bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the antifouling and photocatalytic properties of novel poly(vinylidene fluoride) membranes with a reduced graphene oxide–Bi2WO6 active layer
Authors: Li Yukun , Zhu Liang
Published: July 2017

Immobilization of reduced graphene oxide (RGO)–Bi2WO6 is an ideal method for obtaining antifouling membranes for membrane distillation (MD) processes. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) membranes modified with RGO–Bi2WO6 were successfully obtained with a double‐layer coating method through non‐solvent‐induced phase separation. The water contact angle was improved by about 30° by RGO–Bi2WO6; this indicated that the surface modification obviously increased the membrane hydrophobicity. The high desalination rate proved that all of the prepared membranes were appropriate for the MD process. The RGO–Bi2WO6‐modified membranes achieve 26.26%–59.95% removal rates in 10 mg/L aqueous ciprofloxacin under visible light for 7.5 h. It was possible to erase strongly bound foulants and recover the prepared membrane's permeation flux by 3 h of visible‐light irradiation. The RGO–Bi2WO6‐modified membrane with a high hydrophobicity, fouling mitigation, and photocatalytic capability presents huge potential for the treatment of high‐salt antibiotic wastewater use in the MD process. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45426.
Effect of nanostructured polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane on the physical properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Valiya Parambath Swapna , Ponnamma Deepalekshmi , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Thomas Sabu , Stephen Ranimol
Published: July 2017

An effective amphiphilic polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) encapsulated poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposite was successfully fabricated by solution blending method. Anionic octa(tetramethylammonium) (Octa‐TMA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were used as cage side groups in POSS (Octa‐TMA‐POSS and PEG‐POSS) for the present study. Transmission electron microscopic analysis revealed the uniform dispersion of POSS in the PVA matrix. Crystallinity of PVA/POSS system was computed from differential scanning calorimetric studies. The effect of POSS on the mechanical, dynamic mechanical, and dielectric properties of PVA has been analyzed and discussed in detail with respect to the weight percentage of POSS. The incorporation of POSS in PVA matrix remarkably enhances the Young's modulus of the matrix. The viscoelastic properties such as storage modulus, loss modulus, damping behavior, and glass transition temperature of the membranes were evaluated. The relaxation corresponding to the crystal–crystal slippage characteristic of semicrystalline polymers were observed in storage modulus curves of PVA/POSS system, suggesting the crystalline nature of matrix even in the presence of POSS. Less polar, inert, and stiff inorganic center core of POSS contributes to the reduced energy dissipation and dielectric constant of PVA/POSS system. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45447.
Synthesis and in vitro assessment of novel water‐soluble dextran‐docetaxel conjugates as potential pH sensitive system for tumor‐targeted delivery
Authors: Parhizkar Elahehnaz , Daneshamouz Saeid , Mohammadi‐Samani Soliman , Sakhteman Amirhossein , Parhizkar Golnaz , Omidi Mahmoud , Ahmadi Fatemeh
Published: July 2017

Docetaxel is a potent taxane agent mostly used in breast, lung, and prostate cancers. Its low water solubility is the major drawback that leads to use of Tween 80 as surfactant and ethanol as solvent in market formulation. But, these excipients cause severe hypersensitivity reactions. In this study, docetaxel was conjugated to biocompatible polymer, dextran 70 kDa, via a pH sensitive linker to enhance solubility and diminish the need of surfactants. Folic acid was also conjugated to dextran to provide targeted delivery. Synthesized conjugates were examined for solubility, hemo‐compatibility, stability, and cytotoxicity on MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines. Results showed about 1200‐fold enhancement in water solubility by dextran and 280‐fold by dextran‐folate conjugation. Conjugates released the drug in a pH‐dependent manner and faster hydrolysis was observed in pH 5.4 than physiological pH 7.4. Docetaxel‐dextran conjugates showed proper hemo‐compatibility and presented greater cytotoxicity than docetaxel solution. Higher cytotoxicity was seen in folate conjugated samples and the final conjugates targeted by folate would be suitable novel substitutions for currently marketed formulation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45457.
Synthesis of amphiphilic isoindigo co‐polymers for organic field effect transistors: A comparative study
Authors: Dharmapurikar Satej S. , Arulkashmir Arulraj , Mahale Rajashree Y. , Chini Mrinmoy Kumar
Published: July 2017

In this work, the amphiphilic isoindigo (am‐iInd) based conjugated polymers namely poly(am‐iInd‐DT) and poly(am‐iInd‐TT) and their regular counterpart poly(reg‐iInd‐DT) and poly(reg‐iInd‐TT) were synthesized to compare their opto‐electronic and charge transport properties. They were used to fabricate organic field effect transistors. Charge transport properties in conjugated polymers depend upon intermolecular interaction which is strongly affected by the nature of side chains. The amphiphilic nature of the conjugated polymers has little impact on the charge transport properties. The charge carrier mobility of amphiphilic conjugated polymers was comparable with the regular polymers except poly(reg‐iInd‐DT) which can be correlated by X‐ray diffraction and thin film morphology. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45461.
Polypropylene–glass fiber/basalt fiber hybrid composites fabricated by direct fiber feeding injection molding process
Authors: Yan Xiaofei , Shen Hua , Yu Lichao , Hamada Hiroyuki
Published: July 2017

Hybrid composites of polypropylene reinforced with glass fibers and basalt fibers were fabricated by vented injection molding machine which is named the direct fiber feeding injection molding (DFFIM) process. Polyamide 6 and maleic anhydride‐grafted polypropylene has been used as a coupling agent to improve the interfacial bonding between the fibers and matrix. Two types of vented injection molding machines with a different check ring and mold were used for making specimens. The fiber lengths were analyzed to identify the most suitable check ring and mold for the DFFIM process. The mechanical properties of the hybrid composites were investigated by tensile, flexural and Izod impact tests. The interfacial morphology of the fractured tensile specimens was studied by using scanning electron microscopy and showed that there is a fiber agglomeration phenomenon that occurs in the hybrid composites, and it has a significant effect on the mechanical properties of hybrid composites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45472.
Sequential Dy(OTf)3‐Catalyzed Solvent‐Free Per‐O‐Acetylation and Regioselective Anomeric De‐O‐Acetylation of Carbohydrates
Authors: Yan Yi‐Ling , Guo Jiun‐Rung , Liang Chien‐Fu
Published: July 2017

Dysprosium(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate‐catalyzed per‐O‐acetylation and regioselective anomeric de‐O‐acetylation of carbohydrates can be tuned by adjusting the reaction medium. In this study, the per‐O‐acetylation of unprotected sugars by using a near‐stoichiometric amount of acetic anhydride under solvent‐free conditions resulted in the exclusive formation of acetylated saccharides as anomeric mixtures, whereas anomeric de‐O‐acetylation in methanol resulted in a moderate‐to‐excellent yield. Reactions with various unprotected monosaccharides or disaccharides followed by a semi‐one‐pot sequential conversion into the corresponding acetylated glycosyl hemiacetal also resulted in high yields. Furthermore, the obtained hemiacetals could be successfully transformed into trichloroimidates after Dy(OTf)3‐catalyzed glycosylation.
Fermentation and purification strategies for the production of betulinic acid and its lupane‐type precursors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Czarnotta Eik , Dianat Mariam , Korf Marcel , Granica Fabian , Merz Juliane , Maury Jérôme , Baallal Jacobsen Simo A. , Förster Jochen , Ebert Birgitta E. , Blank Lars M.
Published: July 2017

Microbial production of plant derived, biologically active compounds has the potential to provide economic and ecologic alternatives to existing low productive, plant‐based processes. Current production of the pharmacologically active cyclic triterpenoid betulinic acid is realized by extraction from the bark of plane tree or birch. Here, we reengineered the reported betulinic acid pathway into Saccharomyces cerevisiae and used this novel strain to develop efficient fermentation and product purification methods. Fed‐batch cultivations with ethanol excess, using either an ethanol‐pulse feed or controlling a constant ethanol concentration in the fermentation medium, significantly enhanced production of betulinic acid and its triterpenoid precursors. The beneficial effect of excess ethanol was further exploited in nitrogen‐limited resting cell fermentations, yielding betulinic acid concentrations of 182 mg/L, and total triterpenoid concentrations of 854 mg/L, the highest concentrations reported so far. Purification of lupane‐type triterpenoids with high selectivity and yield was achieved by solid‐liquid extraction without prior cell disruption using polar aprotic solvents such as acetone or ethyl acetate and subsequent precipitation with strong acids. This study highlights the potential of microbial production of plant derived triterpenoids in S. cerevisiae by combining metabolic and process engineering.
Reexamining opportunities for therapeutic protein production in eukaryotic microorganisms
Authors: Matthews Catherine B. , Wright Chapman , Kuo Angel , Colant Noelle , Westoby Matthew , Love J. Christopher
Published: July 2017

Antibodies are an important class of therapeutics and are predominantly produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell lines. While this manufacturing platform is sufficiently productive to supply patient populations of currently approved therapies, it is unclear whether or not the current CHO platform can address two significant areas of need: affordable access to biologics for patients around the globe and production of unprecedented quantities needed for very large populations of patients. Novel approaches to recombinant protein production for therapeutic biologic products may be needed, and might be enabled by non‐mammalian expression systems and recent advances in bioengineering. Eukaryotic microorganisms such as fungi, microalgae, and protozoa offer the potential to produce high‐quality antibodies in large quantities. In this review, we lay out the current understanding of a wide range of species and evaluate based on theoretical considerations which are best poised to deliver a step change in cost of manufacturing and volumetric productivity within the next decade.Related article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bit.26383/full
Protein microarray analysis identifies key cytokines associated with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction
Authors: Zhou Zhonghe , Zhang Jinghua , Li Xiaoqiu , Xia Cheng , Han Yaling , Chen Huisheng
Published: July 2017

Introduction

We aimed to explore potential cytokines involved in the malignant middle cerebral artery infarction (MMI) and elucidate their underlying regulatory mechanisms.

Methods

We first developed a cytokine profile by Quantibody® Human Cytokine Antibody Array7000 using serum samples from eight patients with MMI and eight patients with non‐acute cerebral infarction (NACI). The differentially expressed cytokines were then identified in patients with MMI using two‐tailed Student's t‐test and Fisher's Exact Test compared with patients with NACI. Gene Ontology and pathway enrichment analyses were performed using DAVID. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed based on STRING database.

Results

A total of 10 differentially expressed cytokines were identified from 320 unique inflammatory cytokines in serums. Among them, four cytokines, like NCAM1 (neural cell adhesion molecule 1), IGFBP‐6 (insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 6), LYVE1 (lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1), and LCN2 (Lipocalin2), were up‐regulated, while another six cytokines, such as TGFB1 (transforming growth factor, beta 1, also known as LAP), EGF (epidermal growth factor), PDGFA (platelet‐derived growth factor alpha polypeptide), MMP‐10 (matrix metallopeptidase 10), IL‐27 (interleukin 27), and CCL2 (chemokine (C‐C motif) receptor 2), were down‐regulated. Moreover, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction pathway was significantly enriched.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that 10 differentially expressed cytokines, such as NCAM1, LCN2, IGFBP‐6, LYVE1, MMP‐10, IL‐27, PDGFA, EGF, CCL2, and TGFB1 may participate in the development of MMI. Moreover, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction pathway may be an important mechanism involved in this disease. These differentially expressed cytokines may serve as diagnostic biomarkers or drug targets for MMI.
Identification of patients with cancer with a high risk to develop delirium
Authors: Neefjes Elisabeth C. W. , van der Vorst Maurice J. D. L. , Verdegaal Bertha A. T. T. , Beekman Aartjan T. F. , Berkhof Johannes , Verheul Henk M. W.
Published: July 2017

Delirium deteriorates the quality of life in patients with cancer, but is frequently underdiagnosed and not adequately treated. In this study, we evaluated the occurrence of delirium and its risk factors in patients admitted to the hospital for treatment or palliative care in order to develop a prediction model to identify patients at high risk for delirium. In a period of 1.5 years, we evaluated the risk of developing delirium in 574 consecutively admitted patients with cancer to our academic oncology department with the Delirium Observation Screening Scale. Risk factors for delirium were extracted from the patient's chart. A delirium prediction algorithm was constructed using tree analysis, and validated with fivefold cross‐validation. A total of 574 patients with cancer were acutely (42%) or electively (58%) admitted 1733 times. The incidence rate of delirium was 3.5 per 100 admittances. Tree analysis revealed that the predisposing factors of an unscheduled admittance and a metabolic imbalance accurately predicted the development of delirium. In this group the incidence rate of delirium was 33 per 100 patients (1:3). The AUC of the model was 0.81, and 0.65 after fivefold cross‐validation. We identified that especially patients undergoing an unscheduled admittance with a metabolic imbalance do have a clinically relevant high risk to develop a delirium. Based on these factors, we propose to evaluate preventive treatment of these patients when admitted to the hospital in order to improve their quality of life.
Structural cause of dysphagia detected during videofluoroscopic swallow study
Authors: Toh Yoon Ezekiel Wong , Kabuto Syu
Published: July 2017

Key Clinical Message

Dysphagia can be caused by many different underlying conditions. The assessment and management of dysphagia depend on each individual patient, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach. Structural cause of dysphagia can be dealt with using endoscopic interventions before the patient's general status deteriorates.
Catalytic Metallodrugs: Substrate‐Selective Metal Catalysts as Therapeutics
Authors: Yu Zhen , Cowan James A.
Published: July 2017

Metal complexes that catalyze inactivation and degradation of biomolecular targets can be developed into novel therapeutics (catalytic metallodrugs) against a variety of diseases. Despite recent advances in the field, a lack of substrate selectivity is a major hindrance to the development of catalytic metallodrugs for application in clinical practice. Improved targeting can minimize nonselective activity and the potential for side effects. Herein, we focus on recent developments toward novel metal catalysts that exhibit substrate selectivity against a variety of therapeutically relevant biomolecules. Design strategies for developing selective catalytic metallodrugs are also highlighted.
Aminopyrazine Pathway to the Moco Metabolite Dephospho Form A
Authors: Klewe Anne , Kruse Tobias , Lindel Thomas
Published: July 2017

An efficient synthesis of the molybdopterin/molybdenum cofactor (Moco) oxidation product dephospho Form A is described that assembles the pteridinone system starting from an iodinated aminopyrazine. The sodium salt of dephospho Form A could be purified by precipitation from methanol, which paved the way to the title compound in the 100 mg range. By HPLC, the synthetic material was compared with a sample isolated from a recombinant Moco containing protein. Analysis of dephospho Form A is the only method that allows the quantification of the Moco content of crude cell extracts and recombinant protein preparations.
A Consecutive C−H Functionalization Triggered by Oxidation of Active sp3 C−H Bonds: Construction of 3,4‐Dihydroquinoline‐3‐one Derivatives
Authors: Jia Xiaodong , Hou Wentao , Shao Yu , Yuan Yu , Chen Qian , Li Pengfei , Liu Xiaofei , Ji Honghe
Published: July 2017

We report a consecutive C−H functionalization that constructs 3,4‐dihydroquinoline‐3‐one derivatives in high yields. This reaction is triggered by oxidation of active sp3 C−H bonds of glycines and N‐benzylanilines. In this radical mediated transformation, four sp3 C−H bonds are functionalized efficiently, together with construction of one heterocyclic ring with a quaternary carbon center.
Towards Catalytic Ammonia Oxidation to Dinitrogen: A Synthetic Cycle by Using a Simple Manganese Complex
Authors: Keener Megan , Peterson Madeline , Hernández Sánchez Raúl , Oswald Victoria F. , Wu Guang , Ménard Gabriel
Published: July 2017

Oxidation of the nucleophilic nitride, (salen)Mn≡N (1) with stoichiometric [Ar3N][X] initiated a nitride coupling reaction to N2, a major step toward catalytic ammonia oxidation (salen=N,N′‐bis(salicylidene)‐ethylenediamine dianion; Ar=p‐bromophenyl; X=[SbCl6]− or [B(C6F5)4]−). N2 production was confirmed by mass spectral analysis of the isotopomer, 1‐15N, and the gas quantified. The metal products of oxidation were the reduced MnIII dimers, [(salen)MnCl]2 (2) or [(salen)Mn(OEt2)]2[B(C6F5)4]2 (3) for X=[SbCl6]− or [B(C6F5)4]−, respectively. The mechanism of nitride coupling was probed to distinguish a nitridyl from a nucleophilic/electrophilic coupling sequence. During these studies, a rare mixed‐valent MnV/MnIII bridging nitride, [(salen)MnV(μ‐N)MnIII(salen)][B(C6F5)4] (4), was isolated, and its oxidation‐state assignment was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies, perpendicular and parallel‐mode EPR and UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopies, as well as superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry. We found that 4 could subsequently be oxidized to 3. Furthermore, in view of generating a catalytic system, 2 can be re‐oxidized to 1 in the presence of NH3 and NaOCl closing a pseudo‐catalytic “synthetic” cycle. Together, the reduction of 1→2 followed by oxidation of 2→1 yield a genuine synthetic cycle for NH3 oxidation, paving the way to the development of a fully catalytic system by using abundant metal catalysis.
Photocatalytic Aerobic Oxidation of Alkenes into Epoxides or Chlorohydrins Promoted by a Polymer‐Supported Decatungstate Catalyst
Authors: Symeonidis Theodoros S. , Athanasoulis Alexandros , Ishii Rikako , Uozumi Yasuhiro , Yamada Yoichi M. A. , Lykakis Ioannis N.
Published: July 2017

An efficient photocatalytic method for the aerobic oxidation of alkenes to afford either the corresponding epoxides or chlorohydrins, depending on the solvent of choice, is presented. This effective approach uses a novel polymer‐supported decatungstate catalyst bearing a poly(isopropylacrylamide alkylammonium) matrix and yields the corresponding products in moderate to excellent yields.
Potential impact of the sewer system on the applicability of alcohol and tobacco biomarkers in wastewater‐based epidemiology
Authors: Banks Andrew P.W. , Lai Foon Yin , Mueller Jochen F. , Jiang Guangming , Carter Steve , Thai Phong K.
Published: July 2017

Understanding the actual consumption of alcohol and tobacco in the population is important for forming public health policy. For this purpose, wastewater‐based epidemiology has been applied as a complementary method to estimate the overall alcohol and tobacco consumption in different communities. However, the stability of their consumption biomarkers – ethyl sulfate, ethyl glucuronide, cotinine, and trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine – in the sewer system has not yet been assessed. This study aimed to conduct such assessment using sewer reactors mimicking conditions of rising main, gravity sewer, and wastewater alone, over a 12‐hour period. The results show that cotinine and trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine are relatively stable under all sewer conditions while ethyl sulfate was only stable in wastewater alone and gradually degraded in rising main and gravity sewer conditions. Ethyl glucuronide quickly degraded in all reactors. These findings suggest that cotinine and trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine are good biomarkers to estimate tobacco consumption; ethyl sulfate may be used as a biomarker to estimate alcohol consumption, but its in‐sewer loss should be accounted for in the calculation of consumption estimates. Ethyl glucuronide, and probably most of glucuronide compounds, are not suitable biomarkers to be used in wastewater‐based epidemiology due to their in‐sewer instability.
Discrimination between closely related synthetic cannabinoids by GC–Cold–EI–MS
Authors: Smolianitski‐Fabian Evgeny , Cohen Etia , Dronova Marina , Voloshenko‐Rossin Anna , Lev Ovadia
Published: July 2017

Gas chromatography thermal‐electron ionization mass spectrometry (GC–EI–MS) is an established method for the identification of mind‐altering substances and is routinely used by forensic laboratories. However, some commonly analyzed drugs of abuse, relating to the synthetic cannabinoids receptor agonist group (SCs), pose a challenge for this conventional technique.

As the molecular cation radicals of many excited SCs are labile within the ion source, the relative abundance of the molecular ions obtained by the GC‐EI‐MS is often too small to allow discrimination of structurally related drugs. In contrast, the cold‐electron ionization (cold‐EI) method allows the enhancement and clear identification of the molecular ions, while maintaining the ability to compare unknown analytes with comprehensive mass spectrum libraries. This technique was explored for mass‐spectrometric identification and unambiguous differentiation of 15 emerging synthetic cannabinoids found on the drug market in Israel and elsewhere. The current method was demonstrated to discriminate pairs of closely related SCs: FUB‐PB‐22 and FDU‐PB‐22, and 5F–PB‐22 and NM‐2201. In addition, the dependence of the molecular ion enhancement on the cold‐EI parameters was examined. Finally, analysis of SCs from seized street samples provided by the Israeli police demonstrates the enhanced identification power of GC–cold–EI–MS.
Typical antimicrobials induce mast cell degranulation and anaphylactoid reactions via MRGPRX2 and its murine homologue MRGPRB2
Authors: Zhang Tao , Che Delu , Liu Rui , Han Shengli , Wang Nan , Zhan Yingzhuan , Pundir Priyanka , Cao Jiao , Lv Yanni , Yang Liu , Wang Jue , Ding Meiwen , Dong Xinzhong , He Langchong
Published: July 2017

Mast cells are unique immune cells that function as sentinels in host defence reactions, including immediate hypersensitivity responses and allergic responses. The mast cell‐specific receptor named MAS‐related G protein‐coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2) triggers mast‐cell degranulation, a key process in anaphylactoid reactions. It is widely observed that antimicrobials can induce pseudo‐allergic reactions (i.e. IgE‐independent mechanism) with symptoms ranging from skin inflammation to life‐threatening systemic anaphylaxis. However, their direct involvement and the mechanisms underlying anaphylactoid reactions caused by antimicrobials have not been demonstrated. Structurally different antimicrobials were screened by Ca2+ imaging using MRGPRX2 overexpressing HEK293 cells. MRGPRX2 related anaphylactoid reactions induced by these components were investigated by body temperature drop and mast cell degranulation assays. We showed that MRGPRX2 is involved in allergic‐like reactions to three types of antimicrobials in a dose‐dependent manner. However, mast cells lacking the receptor show reduced degranulation. Furthermore, mice without MAS‐related G protein‐coupled receptor B2 (the orthologous gene of MRGPRX2) exhibited reduced substance‐induced inflammation. Interestingly, β‐lactam and antiviral nucleoside analogues did not induce anaphylactic reactions, which were also observed in vitro. These results should alarm many clinicians that such drugs might induce anaphylactoid reactions and provide guidance on safe dosage of these drugs.
Human profilin 1 is a negative regulator of CTL mediated cell‐killing and migration
Authors: Schoppmeyer Rouven , Zhao Renping , Cheng He , Hamed Mohamed , Liu Chen , Zhou Xiao , Schwarz Eva C. , Zhou Yan , Knörck Arne , Schwär Gertrud , Ji Shunrong , Liu Liang , Long Jiang , Helms Volkhard , Hoth Markus , Yu Xianjun , Qu Bin
Published: July 2017

The actin‐binding protein profilin1 (PFN1) plays a central role in actin dynamics, which is essential for cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) functions. The functional role of PFN1 in CTLs, however still remains elusive. Here, we identify PFN1 as the only member of the profilin family expressed in primary human CD8+ T cells. Using in vitro assays, we find that PFN1 is a negative regulator of CTL‐mediated elimination of target cells. Furthermore, PFN1 is involved in activation‐induced lytic granule (LG) release, CTL migration and modulation of actin structures at the immunological synapse (IS). During CTL migration, PFN1 modulates the velocity, protrusion formation patterns and protrusion sustainability. In contrast, PFN1 does not significantly affect migration persistence and the rates of protrusion emergence and retraction. Under in vitro conditions mimicking a tumor microenvironment, we show that PFN1 downregulation promotes CTL invasion into a 3D matrix, without affecting the viability of CTLs in a hydrogen peroxide‐enriched microenvironment. Highlighting its potential relevance in cancer, we find that in pancreatic cancer patients, PFN1 expression is substantially decreased in peripheral CD8+ T cells. Taken together, we conclude that PFN1 is a negative regulator for CTL‐mediated cytotoxicity and may have an impact on CTL functionality in a tumor‐related context.
Synthesis, Structure, Photoluminescence, and Electroluminescence of Four Europium Complexes: Fabrication of Pure Red Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes from Europium Complexes
Authors: Karimi Behzad Sara , Amini Mostafa M. , Ghanbari Mohammad , Janghouri Mohammad , Anzenbacher Pavel , Ng Seik Weng
Published: July 2017

Four new europium complexes were prepared by treating europium(III) trifluoro(thenoyl)acetonate trihydrate with new tridentate ligands, based on dipyrazolyltriazine and utilized as emitting materials in electroluminescent devices. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR spectroscopy, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The coordinated ligands serve as light‐harvesting chromophores in the complexes, with absorption maxima in the range 334–402 nm [ε = (8.9–81.4) × 103 m–1 cm–1]. The ligands efficiently sensitize europium luminescence, with maximum quantum‐yield (QLEu) and observed lifetime (τobs) values of 34 % and 600 µs in the solid state and 35 % and 528 µs in toluene, respectively. The radiative lifetimes of Eu (5D0) are in the range 1170–1281 µs and the ligand‐to‐metal energy‐transfer efficiency (ηsens) is in the range 71–92 % for those complexes in the solid state and in the range 68–97 % for those in solution. Additionally, organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), which exhibited pure red emission, were fabricated with europium(III) complexes. It is shown that by modifying the [Eu(tta)3·3H2O] molecule with ancillary ligands, one can tune and control its electroluminescence spectra, along with its electrical properties, such as the current/voltage characteristics of OLED devices based on [Eu(tta)3(L)]. The best OLED presented a maximum luminance of 3156 cd/m2 and a maximum efficiency of 0.7 cd/A at an applied voltage of 8 V.
Properties of Protic Ionic Liquids Comprised of N‐Alkyldiethylenetriamine and Their Complexation of Copper(II) Ions
Authors: Nakayama Chisayo , Harada Masafumi , Iida Masayasu
Published: July 2017

Protic ionic liquids (PILs) comprised of alkylpolyaminium cations, such as monoprotonated N‐hexyldiethylenetriaminium (HHexdien+) and N‐(2‐ethylhexyl)diethylenetriaminium (HEthexdien+), coupled with bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amide (Tf2N–) and trifluoroacetate (TFA–) were prepared, and their properties and interactions with copper(II) ions were studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), visible absorption spectra, and 15N NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The alkyldiethylenetriaminium (triamine) PILs assume a liquid state at lower temperatures than the corresponding alkylethylenediaminium (diamine) PILs, and they exhibit a glass transition without crystallization for all of the systems studied. The protonation of the alkyltriamines predominantly occurs at the N(1) and N(3) amine moieties and depends on the counteranions (Tf2N– or TFA–) and the alkyl moiety (hexyl or ethylhexyl). The polarity parameters, such as ET(30) (or ETN), π*, α, and β, were determined for the triamine PILs, as well as for the diamine PILs, to examine the amine effect. The coordination structure of the copper(II) ion in the present chelate–amine PILs was deduced based on the visible absorption spectra for the isolated copper(II)–alkyldiethylenetriamine complexes and for Cu(ClO4)2 in molecular solvents. The lifetime of the copper(II)–triamine complex formed in the PIL was estimated to be ca. 10–2 s at ambient temperature using the 13C NMR spectroscopic paramagnetic relaxation times.
Methylsulfanyl‐Stabilized Rotamers of Cobalt Bis(dicarbollide)
Authors: Anufriev Sergey A. , Erokhina Svetlana A. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Godovikov Ivan A. , Filippov Oleg A. , Fabrizi de Biani Fabrizia , Corsini Maddalena , Chizhov Alexander O. , Sivaev Igor B.
Published: July 2017

Methylsulfanyl derivatives of cobalt bis(dicarbollide), [8,8′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2]–, [4,4′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2]–, and [4,7′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2]–, were synthesized through the reactions of CoCl2 with [10‐MeS‐7,8‐C2B9H11]– and [9‐MeS‐7,8‐C2B9H11]– in strong alkaline aqueous media. The 4,4′‐(rac) and 4,7′‐(meso) isomers were separated by column chromatography as the tetrabutylammonium salts. The structures of [Bu4N][8,8′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2], [Bu4N][4,4′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2], and [Bu4N][4,7′‐(MeS)2‐3,3′‐Co(1,2‐C2B9H10)2] were determined through single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In the solid state, the rotation of the two dicarbollide ligands with respect to each other is hampered by the formation of intramolecular CH···S(Me) hydrogen bonds between the ligands, and this results in the stabilization of definite rotamers, namely, the transoid conformation for the 8,8′ isomer and the gauche conformations for the 4,4′ and 4,7′ isomers. These data are in a good agreement with the results of quantum‐chemical calculations.
Physical and oxidative stability of high fat fish oil‐in‐water emulsions stabilized with combinations of sodium caseinate and sodium alginate
Authors: Yesiltas Betül , García‐Moreno Pedro J. , Sørensen Ann‐Dorit M. , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: July 2017

A systematic study was carried out in order to evaluate the physical and oxidative stability of high fat omega‐3 delivery fish oil‐in‐water emulsions stabilized with combinations of sodium caseinate (NaCas) and sodium alginate (NaAlg). The influence of three factors related to emulsion composition (fish oil content: 50, 60, and 70%; total amount of NaCas and NaAlg: 1.4, 2.1 and 2.8%; and ratio NaCas:NaAlg: 0.4, 1.2, and 2) on physical (droplet size, viscosity, and zeta potential) and oxidative (primary and secondary oxidation products) parameters was evaluated. It was possible to produce emulsions with a combination of NaCas and NaAlg, except when the ratio between NaAlg and aqueous phase was high (0.047 or 0.054). Viscosity of the emulsions significantly increased with increasing fish oil and total stabilizer content. Zeta potential was significantly affected by total stabilizer content. The content of primary oxidation products in the emulsions was very low (0.93 meq peroxides/kg oil). Secondary oxidation products were detected in small amounts (<60 ng/g emulsion). Even though the optimum formulation concerning physical parameters was suggested as 61.8% fish oil content, 1.4% total stabilizer, and 1.2 ratio NaCas:NaAlg by Box‐Behnken's design, the formulae 70%‐1.4%‐1.2 was decided due to high fish oil content's decreasing effect on droplet size and peroxide value.

Practical applications: Physically and oxidatively stable high fat (50–70%) omega‐3 delivery fish oil‐in‐water emulsions are of high interest to food industry for the production of omega‐3 fortified products. Our results show the feasibility to stabilize high fat delivery fish oil‐in‐water emulsions using combinations of NaCas and NaAlg. As these emulsions had high amount of fish oil, food products can be enriched with smaller amounts of high fat emulsions when compared to low fat delivery emulsions. This results in minor changes of the product's original structure. Examples for enrichment of food products with omega‐3 are dressings, cream cheese, yoghurt, and mayonnaise.

Optimization of emulsion composition which maximizes the physical and oxidative stabilities of high fat fish oil‐in‐water emulsions stabilized with combinations of sodium caseinate and sodium alginate.
Lipids from visceral depot fat of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer): Compositions and storage stability as affected by extraction methods
Authors: Sae‐leaw Thanasak , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: July 2017

Lipids from Asian seabass visceral depot fat (SVDF) were extracted using different methods including heating in air, heating under vacuum, autoclave, and solvent extraction. Lipid extracted by heating under vacuum had the highest yield (67.33%) (p < 0.05). All extracted lipids had triglyceride (TG) as the major component, followed by phospholipid (PL). Oleic acid (C18:1 n‐9) constituted as the most abundant fatty acid in all lipids, followed by palmitic acid (C16:0) and linoleic acid (C18:2 n‐6), regardless of extraction methods. Docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6 n‐3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5 n‐3) accounted for 6.88–7.41 and 1.76–2.51%, respectively. During storage of 30 days at 30°C, lipids extracted by heating under vacuum or by solvent had the higher oxidative stability as indicated by the lower peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), conjugated diene (CD), and ρ‐anisidine value (AnV). Lower increases in free fatty acid (FFA) content were also found in the samples obtained by those two methods. Extraction of lipid by heating under vacuum or solvent could lower the formation of volatile lipid oxidation products. Thus, extraction method had the profound impact on yield and storage stability of lipids from SVDF.

Practical applications: Asian seabass visceral depot fat is considered as the byproduct during butchering process. This fatty tissue can serve as the potential raw material for lipid production. Several methods have been used for extraction of lipids, in which yield and chemical compositions can be varied. Therefore, the appropriate extraction method should be implemented to increase the efficacy of lipid extraction and to obtain lipid with high quality and oxidative stability. As a consequence, Asian seabass viscera can be better exploited and fish lipid rich in n‐3 fatty acids can be produced and used as nutraceutical or supplement.

Lipids from Asian seabass visceral depot fat are extracted using different methods including heating in air, heating under vacuum, autoclave, and solvent extraction. Extraction by heating under vacuum rendered the lipid with the highest yield and the oxidation occurred at the low extent. During storage of 30 days at 30°C, lipids extracted by heating under vacuum also have the high oxidative stability. Therefore, Asian seabass viscera could be the potential raw material of lipid rich in n‐3 fatty acids, which can be extracted and used as nutraceutical or supplement.
Synthesis of Mono‐N‐sulfonylimidazolidines by a 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Strategy, as an Alternative to Selective N‐Sulfonylation, and Their Ring Cleavage To Afford 1,2‐Diamines
Authors: Laha Joydev K. , Jethava Krupal P. , Tummalapalli K. S. Satyanarayana , Sharma Sheetal
Published: July 2017

1,3‐Dipolar cycloaddition between nonstabilized azomethine ylides and N‐sulfonylimines has been developed, providing practical access to mono‐N‐sulfonylimidazolidines. The enhanced reactivity of N‐sulfonylimines as dipolarophiles towards azomethine ylides largely eliminated possible Michael addition and favored 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition. Our approach could complement commonly practiced strategies for protection of imidazolidines. Furthermore, nucleophile‐dependent ring cleavage of N‐sulfonylimidazolidines produced synthetically useful mono‐N‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐diamines, which are otherwise difficult to obtain. Ring cleavage accompanied by CH2 extrusion, yielding mono‐N‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐diamines, occurred on treatment with TBAF, whereas N‐methylated derivatives of N‐sulfonyl‐1,2‐diamines were produced on treatment with LAH.
Grazoprevir, ruzasvir, and uprifosbuvir for hepatitis C virus after NS5A treatment failure
Authors: Wyles David , Wedemeyer Heiner , Ben‐Ari Ziv , Gane Edward J. , Hansen Jesper Bach , Jacobson Ira M. , Laursen Alex L. , Luetkemeyer Annie , Nahass Ronald , Pianko Stephen , Zeuzem Stefan , Jumes Patricia , Huang Hsueh‐Cheng , Butterton Joan , Robertson Michael , Wahl Janice , Barr Eliav , Joeng Hee‐Koung , Martin Elizabeth , Serfaty Lawrence ,   for the C‐CREST Part C and C‐SURGE Investigators
Published: July 2017

People with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who have failed treatment with an all‐oral regimen represent a challenging treatment population. The present studies evaluated the safety and efficacy of grazoprevir, ruzasvir, and uprifosbuvir, with or without ribavirin, in participants who had failed an NS5A inhibitor‐containing regimen. C‐SURGE (PN‐3682‐021) and C‐CREST Part C (PN‐3682‐011 and ‐012) were open‐label, multicenter studies. Participants who had previously relapsed following an NS5A inhibitor–containing all‐oral regimen were retreated with grazoprevir 100 mg, ruzasvir 60 mg, and uprifosbuvir 450 mg alone for 24 weeks or with ribavirin for 16 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was sustained virologic response (HCV RNA below the limit of quantitation [<15 IU/mL]) 12 weeks after treatment completion (SVR12). In C‐SURGE, SVR12 was achieved by 49/49 (100%) and 43/44 (98%) genotype (GT)1 participants in the 24‐week no ribavirin arm and the 16‐week plus ribavirin arm (lost to follow‐up, n = 1), respectively. In C‐CREST Part C, SVR12 was achieved by 23/24 (96%) participants treated for 16 weeks with ribavirin (GT1, 2/2 [100%]; GT2, 13/14 [93%]; GT3, 8/8 [100%]). One participant with GT2 infection discontinued study medication after a single dose of grazoprevir, ruzasvir, and uprifosbuvir plus ribavirin due to serious adverse events of vomiting and tachycardia. The presence of baseline resistance‐associated substitutions had no impact on SVR12. No participant who completed treatment in either study experienced virologic failure. Conclusion: Grazoprevir, ruzasvir, and uprifosbuvir, with or without ribavirin, for 16 or 24 weeks was safe and highly effective in participants with HCV infection who had previously failed NS5A inhibitor–containing therapy. (Hepatology 2017;66:1794–1804)
Consumption of fruits, vegetables and fruit juices and differentiated thyroid carcinoma risk in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study
Authors: Zamora‐Ros Raul , Béraud Virginie , Franceschi Silvia , Cayssials Valerie , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Weiderpass Elisabete , Overvad Kim , Tjønneland Anne , Eriksen Anne K. , Bonnet Fabrice , Affret Aurélie , Katzke Verena , Kühn Tilman , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Valanou Elisavet , Karakatsani Anna , Masala Giovanna , Grioni Sara , Santucci de Magistris Maria , Tumino Rosario , Ricceri Fulvio , Skeie Guri , Parr Christine L , Merino Susana , Salamanca‐Fernández Elena , Chirlaque Maria‐Dolores , Ardanaz Eva , Amiano Pilar , Almquist Martin , Drake Isabel , Hennings Joakim , Sandström Maria , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. B(as) , Peeters Petra H. , Khaw Kay‐Thee , Wareham Nicholas J. , Schmidt Julie A. , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Aune Dagfinn , Riboli Elio , Slimani Nadia , Scalbert Augustin , Romieu Isabelle , Agudo Antonio , Rinaldi Sabina
Published: July 2017

Fruit and vegetable (F&V) intake is considered as probably protective against overall cancer risk, but results in previous studies are not consistent for thyroid cancer (TC). The purpose of this study is to examine the association between the consumption of fruits, vegetables, fruit juices and differentiated thyroid cancer risk within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. The EPIC study is a cohort including over half a million participants, recruited between 1991 and 2000. During a mean follow‐up of 14 years, 748 incident first primary differentiated TC cases were identified. F&V and fruit juice intakes were assessed through validated country‐specific dietary questionnaires. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox regression models adjusted for potential confounding factors. Comparing the highest versus lowest quartile of intake, differentiated TC risk was not associated with intakes of total F&V (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.68–1.15; p‐trend = 0.44), vegetables (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.69–1.14; p‐trend = 0.56), or fruit (HR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.79–1.26; p‐trend = 0.64). No significant association was observed with any individual type of vegetable or fruit. However, there was a positive borderline trend with fruit juice intake (HR: 1.23; 95% CI: 0.98–1.53; p‐trend = 0.06). This study did not find any significant association between F&V intakes and differentiated TC risk; however a positive trend with fruit juice intake was observed, possibly related to its high sugar content.
Root causes and social consequences of birth injuries in Western Uganda
Authors: Angell Jennifer N. , Busingye Priscilla , Ganyaglo Gabriel Y.‐K. , Moyer Cheryl A.
Published: July 2017

A case series of Ugandan women with fistula and other birth injuries suggested that the root causes included social, cultural, and system‐based factors.
Performance of a cost‐effective and automated blood counting system for resource‐limited settings operated by trained and untrained users
Authors: Xie Dengling , Xie Yanjun , Liu Peng , Tong Lieshu , Hu Chuanzhen , Shao Pengfei , Chu Kaiqin , Smith Zachary J.
Published: July 2017

Current flow‐based blood counting devices require expensive and centralized medical infrastructure and are not appropriate for field use. In this article we report a streamlined, easy‐to‐use method to count red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), platelets (PLT) and 3‐part WBC differential through a cost‐effective and automated image‐based blood counting system. The approach consists of using a compact, custom‐built microscope with large field‐of‐view to record bright‐field and fluorescence images of samples that are diluted with a single, stable reagent mixture and counted using automatic algorithms. Sample collection utilizes volume‐controlled capillary tubes, which are then dropped into a premixed, shelf‐stable solution to stain and dilute in a single step. Sample measurement and analysis are fully automated, requiring no input from the user. Cost of the system is minimized through the use of custom‐designed motorized components. We compare the performance of our system, as operated by trained and untrained users, to the clinical gold standard on 120 adult blood samples, demonstrating agreement within Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments guidelines, with no statistical difference in performance among different operator groups. The system's cost‐effectiveness, automation and performance indicate that it can be successfully translated for use in low‐resource settings where central hematology laboratories are not accessible.
Proteoglycan 4 and hyaluronan as boundary lubricants for model contact lens hydrogels
Authors: Samsom Michael , Iwabuchi Yuno , Sheardown Heather , Schmidt Tannin A.
Published: July 2017

Clinical data show that in vitro contact lens friction is related to in vivo comfort. Solutions of biological lubricants hyaluronan (HA) and proteoglycan 4 (PRG4, also known as lubricin) reduce friction at a cornea–polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) interface. The purpose of this study was to (1) determine if PRG4 can sorb to and lubricate model contact lens materials and (2) assess the boundary lubricating ability of PRG4 and HA compared to saline on model contact lens materials. PRG4 was obtained from bovine cartilage culture and suspended in saline at 300 µg/mL. N,N‐Dimethylacrylamidetris (trimethylsiloxy) silane, (DMAA/TRIS) and methacryloxypropyltris (trimethylsiloxy) silane (pHEMA/TRIS) silicone hydrogels were prepared. A previously described in vitro eyelid–hydrogel and cornea–hydrogel biomechanical friction test was used to determine boundary lubricant effect. PRG4 sorption to the hydrogels was assessed using a soak‐rinse protocol and western blotting. PRG4 effectively lubricated both silicone hydrogel materials and HA effectively lubricated pHEMA/TRIS, as indicated by a statistically significant reduction in friction compared to the saline control lubricant. An HA and PRG4 combination showed a synergistic effect for pHEMA/TRIS and effectively lubricated DMAA/TRIS. Biological boundary lubricants HA and PRG4 were shown to effectively lubricate silicone hydrogels when in solution. Additionally, HA and PRG4 showed synergistic lubrication for pHEMA/TRIS. The purpose of this study was not to replicate the friction coefficients of contact lenses, but rather to investigate lubricant–surface interactions for common contact lens constituents. These findings contribute to the potential development of biomolecule based lubricant drops for contact lens wearers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1329–1338, 2018.