bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a functional antioxidant responsive element in the promoter of the Chinese hamster carbonyl reductase 3 (Chcr3) gene
Authors: Miura Takeshi , Taketomi Ayako , Nakabayashi Toshikatsu , Nishinaka Toru , Terada Tomoyuki
Published: February 2015

CHCR3, a member of the short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase superfamily, is a carbonyl reductase 3 enzyme in Chinese hamsters. Carbonyl reductase 3 in humans has been believed to involve the metabolism and/or pharmacokinetics of anthracycline drugs, and the mechanism underlying the gene regulation has been investigated. In this study, the nucleotide sequence of the Chcr3 promoter was originally determined, and its promoter activity was characterised. The proximal promoter region is TATA‐less and GC‐rich, similar to the promoter region of human carbonyl reductase 3. Cobalt stimulated the transcriptional activity of the Chcr3 gene. The results of a luciferase gene reporter assay demonstrated that cobalt‐induced stimulation required an antioxidant responsive element. Forced expression of Nrf2, the transcription factor that binds to antioxidant responsive elements, enhanced the transcriptional activity of the Chcr3 gene. These results suggest that cobalt induces the expression of the Chcr3 gene via the Nrf2‐antioxidant responsive element pathway.
The new Occlutech® PDA occluder: Initial human experience
Authors: Abdelbasit M. A. Elbashier , Alwi Mazeni , Kandavello Geetha , Che Mood Marhisham , Samion Hasri , Hijazi Ziyad M.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the Occlutech® PDA occluder for closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Background

The Occlutech® PDA occluder is novel, self‐shaping Nitinol wire device with PET (polyethylene terephthalate) patches integrated into the shank of the device to assure a better obturation of the ductus. The Occlutech® PDA occluder has undergone two design modifications.

Methods

A prospective, non‐randomized pilot study was started in November 2011. Thirty‐three patients were included until April 2013. Patients weighing <6 kg or those with associated cardiac anomalies that required surgery were excluded. All patients were followed up by transthoracic echocardiography at 24 hr, 30 days, 90 days, 180 days, and 360 days after implantation. Residual shunt, left pulmonary artery (LPA) and descending aortic velocities were among the parameters assessed. All occluders were delivered via 6–8 F long sheaths and PDA closures were performed following standard techniques.

Results

Thirty three patients (20 female/13 male), with a median age of 2 years (6 month to 38 years), and median weight of 9.3 kg (6–69.2 kg) were included. The narrowest median PDA diameter was 3mm (1.8–5.8 mm). All the 33 patients were closed successfully using Occlutech ductal occluder, 16 patients (48.4%) had immediate and complete closure on angiography. Within 24 hr, color Doppler revealed complete closure in 27patients (81.8%), 32patients (97%) at 30 days, and in 100% of patients at 90 days. All patients with a large PDA had immediate residual shunt which was closed at the 90‐day follow‐up. There was no device embolization, hemolysis, or obstruction to the LPA or descending aorta.

Conclusion

The new Occlutech® PDA is safe and effective. In patients with a large PDA complete closure tended to take longer time. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurologic complications after transradial or transfemoral approach for diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization: A propensity score analysis of 16,710 cases from a single centre prospective registry
Authors: Raposo Luis , Madeira Sérgio , Teles Rui Campante , Santos Miguel , Gabriel Henrique Mesquita , Gonçalves Pedro , Brito João , Leal Silvio , Almeida Manuel , Mendes Miguel
Published: February 2015

Background and aim

Transradial approach (TRA) is being used increasingly as the preferential vascular access site for both diagnostic and interventional procedures. However, concerns have risen about the risk of clinically meaningful neurologic complications. We aimed to assess the association between the risk of stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) and the transradial (vs. transfemoral) approach.

Methods and Results

Data from 16,710 cases included in a single centre prospective registry between January 2006 and November 2012 was analyzed. Radial procedures were considered as those in which the radial access was used either primarily (n = 4,195) or after conversion (n = 36). Potential cases with neurologic events were targeted by cross‐referencing patients who underwent both cardiac catheterization and cranial‐computed tomography (cranial‐CT) during the same admission episode (n = 67). Procedure‐related events were defined as a definitive non‐CABG related stroke/TIA occurring within 48 hr of the procedure. TRA increased from 0.7% in 2006 to 75% in 2012. Total incidence of stroke/TIA was 0.16% and did not change over the study period (P = 0.26). There was no significant difference in stroke/TIA rates between groups (0.165% vs. 0.160%; P = 1.0). After correction for baseline differences and propensity score matching, TRA was not an independent predictor of stroke/TIA (OR 1.21; 95% CI 0.49–2.98 and 1.3; 95% CI 0.55–3.54, respectively). Results were consistent in pre‐specified sub‐groups according to age (≥65 y.o. vs. younger), gender, interventional vs. diagnostic and ACS vs. stable.

Conclusion

Rates of documented stroke/TIA were low. Our observational study suggests that widening the use of the TRA is not associated with an increased risk of clinically relevant procedure‐related neurologic complications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long‐term outcomes following fractional flow reserve‐guided treatment of angiographically ambiguous left main coronary artery disease: A meta‐analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Mallidi Jaya , Atreya Auras R. , Cook James , Garb Jane , Jeremias Allen , Klein Lloyd W. , Lotfi Amir
Published: February 2015

Objective

To define the long term outcomes of Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) guided revascularization of ambiguous left main coronary artery (LMCA) lesions by performing a pooled meta‐analysis of all available studies.

Background

Prospective studies evaluating the use of fractional flow reserve (FFR) for clinical decision‐making in ambiguous unprotected left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis suggest the relative safety of that approach, but any final conclusions are limited by small sample size. We performed a pooled meta‐analysis of studies to define the long‐term outcomes in these patients.

Methods

Six prospective cohort studies involving 525 patients met the inclusion criteria. Patients underwent revascularization (revascularization group) or medical therapy (deferred group) based on FFR. The primary outcome was defined as rate of major cardiovascular events (a composite of death from all causes, nonfatal myocardial infarctions and subsequent revascularizations). The secondary outcomes included individual components of the primary end point. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using a fixed effects model.

Results

Based on the FFR results, 217 patients (41%) underwent revascularization. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the rates of primary end point (P = 0.15), all‐cause mortality (P = 0.06) or nonfatal myocardial infarctions (P = 0.76). However, there was a significant increase in the rate of subsequent revascularizations in the deferred patients (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

The long term clinical outcomes in patients with ambiguous LMCA stenosis for whom revascularization is deferred based on FFR are favorable and similar to the revascularized group in terms of overall mortality and subsequent myocardial infarctions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fulminant onset of acute leukemia from normal hematopoiesis within 3 months of follow up for multiple myeloma treated with total therapy protocols
Authors: Singh Zeba N. , Jethava Yogesh , Post Ginell R. , Alapat Daisy , Sawyer Jeffrey , Waheed Sarah , Nair Bijay , Usmani Saad Z. , Bailey Clyde , Petty Nathan , Van Rhee Frits , Barlogie Bart
Published: February 2015

Key Clinical Message

Assiduous surveillance for genetic aberrations is necessary in patients on cytotoxic therapies to detect therapy‐related myeloid neoplasms (t‐MN). Current modalities include metaphase cytogenetics and FISH. Since t‐MN may develop abruptly in cytogenetically normal patients, a discussion exploring additional methods such as SNP‐array and targeted‐deep‐sequencing to detect subchromosomal abnormalities is needed.
Facile Formation of Thermodynamically Unstable Novel Borohydride Materials by a Wet Chemistry Route
Authors: Jaroń Tomasz , Wegner Wojciech , Fijałkowski Karol J. , Leszczyński Piotr J. , Grochala Wojciech
Published: February 2015

A novel wet synthetic method utilizing weakly coordinating anions that yields LiCl‐free Zn‐based materials for hydrogen storage has recently been reported. Here we show that this method may also be applied for the synthesis of the pure yttrium derivatives, M[Y(BH4)4] (M=K, Rb, Cs). Moreover, it can be extended to the preparation of previously unknown thermodynamically unstable derivatives, Li[Y(BH4)4] and Na[Y(BH4)4]. Importantly, these two H‐rich phases cannot be accessed by standard dry (mechanochemical) or solid/gas synthetic methods due to the thermodynamic obstacles. Here we describe their crystal structures and selected important physicochemical properties.
Electrochemical Pretreatment of Amino‐Carbon Nanotubes on Graphene Support as a Novel Platform for Bilirubin Oxidase with Improved Bioelectrocatalytic Activity towards Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Navaee Aso , Salimi Abdollah , Jafari Fereydoon
Published: February 2015

The electrochemical conditioning of amino‐carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on a graphene support in an alkaline solution is used to produce NHOH as hydrophilic functional groups for the efficient immobilization of bilirubin oxidase enzyme. The application of the immobilized enzyme for the direct electrocatalytic reduction of O2 is investigated. The onset potential of 0.81 V versus NHE and peak current density of 2.3 mA cm−2 for rotating modified electrode at 1250 rpm, indicate improved biocatalytic activity of the proposed system for O2 reduction.
Discussion on the Structure Stability and the Luminescence Switch under Irradiation of a Ce‐Doped Elpasolite Compound
Authors: Cornu Lucile , Gaudon Manuel , Veber Philippe , Villesuzanne Antoine , Pechev Stanilas , Garcia Alain , Jubera Véronique
Published: February 2015

Ce‐doped Rb2KInF6 elpasolite has the potential for tunable luminescence due to an unusual reversible redox process between the cerium and indium cations. Coupled with a deep understanding of the luminescence properties, XRD analysis and DFT calculations are used to locate the doping elements in the host lattice. The origin explanation of the charge‐transfer mechanism that causes a decrease or increase in the blue–green cerium emission in opposition to the red indium emission is discussed regarding the crystallographic structure, the connection of the metallic cations and their equilibrium valence. Still detectable after nineteen years, the optical contrast created under irradiation makes this material a good candidate as photosensor for data storage.
Biomineralized Multifunctional Magnetite/Carbon Microspheres for Applications in Li‐Ion Batteries and Water Treatment
Authors: Shim Hyun‐Woo , Park Sangbaek , Song Hee Jo , Kim Jae‐Chan , Jang Eunjin , Hong Kug Sun , Kim T. Doohun , Kim Dong‐Wan
Published: February 2015

Advanced functional materials incorporating well‐defined multiscale architectures are a key focus for multiple nanotechnological applications. However, strategies for developing such materials, including nanostructuring, nano‐/microcombination, hybridization, and so on, are still being developed. Here, we report a facile, scalable biomineralization process in which Micrococcus lylae bacteria are used as soft templates to synthesize 3D hierarchically structured magnetite (Fe3O4) microspheres for use as Li‐ion battery anode materials and in water treatment applications. Self‐assembled Fe3O4 microspheres with flower‐like morphologies are systematically fabricated from biomineralized 2D FeO(OH) nanoflakes at room temperature and are subsequently subjected to post‐annealing at 400 °C. In particular, because of their mesoporous properties with a hollow interior and the improved electrical conductivity resulting from the carbonized bacterial templates, the Fe3O4 microspheres obtained by calcining the FeO(OH) in Ar exhibit enhanced cycle stability and rate capability as Li‐ion battery anodes, as well as superior adsorption of organic pollutants and toxic heavy metals.
C100 is Converted into C94Cl22 by Three Chlorination‐Promoted C2 Losses under Formation and Elimination of Cage Heptagons
Authors: Ioffe Ilya N. , Yang Shangfeng , Wang Song , Kemnitz Erhard , Sidorov Lev N. , Troyanov Sergey I.
Published: February 2015

Chlorination of the C100(18) fullerene with a mixture of VCl4 and SbCl5 gives rise to branched skeletal transformations affording non‐classical (NC) C94(NC1)Cl22 with one heptagon in the carbon cage together with the previously reported C96(NC3)Cl20 with three heptagons. The three‐step pathway to C94(NC1)Cl22 starts with two successive C2 losses of 5:6 CC bonds to give two cage heptagons, whereas the third C2 loss of the 5:5 CC bond from a pentalene fragment eliminates one of the heptagons. Quantum‐chemical calculations demonstrate that the two unusual skeletal transformations—creation of a heptagon in C96(NC3)Cl20 through a Stone–Wales rearrangement and the presently reported elimination of a heptagon through C2 loss—are both characterized by relatively low activation energy.
Moderne Flammschutzmittelfür Kunststoffe
Authors: Klinkowski Christoph , Burk Bettina , Bärmann Florian , Döring Manfred
Published: February 2015

Flammschutzmittel werden in eine Vielzahl von Kunststoffen eingearbeitet, um ihre Brennbarkeit herabzusetzen. Ihr Einsatz dient dazu, unser Leben sicherer zu machen und Hab und Gut vor Bränden zu schützen. In diesem Artikel werden unterschiedliche Flammschutzmittelklassen vorgestellt und ihre Wirkungsweisen in Kunststoffen erläutert. Ein Überblick bezüglich der Anforderungen an moderne Flammschutzmittel wird gegeben.
Die Entstehung der chemischen Elemente
Authors: Binnewies Michael , Willner Helge , Woenckhaus Jürgen
Published: February 2015

Durch zahlreiche Entdeckungen in der Kernphysik und durch Beobachtungen mit Teleskopen und Raumsonden konnten in der Astronomie in den letzten Jahrzehnten mehr Erkenntnisse über das Weltall erzielt werden als je zuvor. Für die Chemie ist besonders die Frage relevant, wie die chemischen Elemente entstanden sind und entstehen. Hier beschreiben wir ihre Bildung im Verlaufe der Geschichte unseres Universums. In der Sprache des Chemikers werden Begriffe wie Massendefekt, Kernbindungsenergie, Elementbrennen und der radioaktive Zerfall erläutert. Diese Kenntnisse sind für den nachfolgenden Artikel über die Energiegewinnung in industriellen und natürliche Kern‐ und Fusions‐Reaktoren notwendig. Wir wollen mit diesen Beiträgen Chemielehrer und Studierende ansprechen und Defizite in den einführenden Chemie‐Lehrbüchern ausgleichen
Integrated Regional Geophysical Study on Lithospheric Structure in Eastern China Seas and Adjacent Regions
Authors: Jian‐Sheng WU , Jia‐Lin WANG , Bing CHEN , Xin‐Bing ZHANG
Published: February 2015

Using gravity and magnetic data of eastern China seas and adjacent regions, we calculated the Moho discontinuity, Curie boundary and thermal lithosphere interfaces and dealt with some processing of gravity and magnetic data to enhance the fault information. Based characters of the gravity and magnetic fields, we determined the distribution of major faults in this region, which can be divided into two systems: one is the plate boundary fault system, and the other is the system of block boundary faults and faults within blocks. With the fault systems, we divided the areas of eastern China seas and adjacent regions into eight blocks and four conjunction zones. The results indicate that the boundary between the Sino‐Korea and Yangtze blocks consists of the Wulian‐Qingdao fault in eastern China, the east marginal fault of the Yellow Sea, and the south marginal fault of the Cheju Island. The Jiang‐Shao fault extends to the south tip of the Korea Peninsula and serves as the boundary to separate the Yangtze and South China blocks.
Pharmacokinetic drug–drug interaction assessment between LCZ696, an angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, and hydrochlorothiazide, amlodipine, or carvedilol
Authors: Hsiao Hsiu‐ling , Langenickel Thomas Heiko , Greeley Michael , Roberts John , Zhou Wei , Pal Parasar , Rebello Sam , Rajman Iris , Sunkara Gangadhar
Published: February 2015

LCZ696 is a first‐in‐class angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor in development for treatments of hypertension and heart failure indications. In 3 separate studies, pharmacokinetic drug–drug interactions (DDIs) potential was assessed when LCZ696 was coadministered with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), amlodipine, or carvedilol. The studies used a open‐label, single‐sequence, 3‐period, crossover design in healthy subjects. Blood samples were collected to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of LCZ696 analytes (AHU377, LBQ657, and valsartan), HCTZ, amlodipine, or carvedilol (R[+]‐ and S[−]‐carvedilol) for statistical analysis. When coadministered LCZ696 with HCTZ, the 90% CIs of the geometric mean ratios of AUCtau,ss of HCTZ and that of LBQ657 were within a 0.80–1.25 interval, whereas HCTZ Cmax,ss decreased by 26%, LBQ657 Cmax,ss increased by 19%, and the AUCtau,ss and Cmax,ss of valsartan increased by 14% and 16%, respectively. Pharmacokinetics of amlodipine, R(+)‐ and S(−)‐carvedilol, or LBQ657 were not altered after coadministration of LCZ696 with amlodipine or carvedilol. Coadministration of LCZ696 400 mg once daily (qd) with HCTZ 25 mg qd, amlodipine 10 mg qd, or carvedilol 25 mg twice a day (bid) had no clinically relevant pharmacokinetic drug–drug interactions. LCZ696, HCTZ, amlodipine, and carvedilol were safe and well tolerated when given alone or concomitantly in the investigated studies.
Electrodes/Electrolyte Interfaces in the Presence of a Surface‐Modified Photopolymer Electrolyte: Application in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Sacco Adriano , Bella Federico , De La Pierre Stefano , Castellino Micaela , Bianco Stefano , Bongiovanni Roberta , Pirri Candido Fabrizio
Published: February 2015

Since hundreds of studies on photoanodes and cathodes show that the electrode/electrolyte interfaces represent a key aspect at the base of dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) performances, it is reported here that these interfaces can be managed by a smart design of the spatial composition of quasi‐solid electrolytes. By means of a cheap, rapid, and green process of photoinduced polymerization, composition‐tailored polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs) with siloxane‐enriched surfaces are prepared, and their properties are thoroughly described. When assembled in DSSCs, the interfacial action promoted by the composition‐tailored PEMs enhances the photocurrent and fill factor values, thus increasing the global photovoltaic conversion efficiency with respect to the non‐modified PEMs. Moreover, the presence of the siloxane‐chain‐enriched surface increases the hydrophobicity and reduces the water vapor permeation into the device, thus enhancing the cell′s durability.
The role of nonrandomized trials in the evaluation of oncology drugs
Authors: Simon R , Blumenthal GM , Rothenberg ML , Sommer J , Roberts SA , Armstrong DK , LaVange LM , Pazdur R
Published: February 2015

Although randomized trials provide the most reliable evidence of a drug's safety and efficacy, there are situations where randomized trials are not possible or ethical. In this article we discuss when and how single‐arm trials can be used to support full approval of oncology drugs. These include situations in which an unprecedented effect on tumor response is observed in a setting of high unmet medical need, clinical trial patients have been well characterized, enabling a target population to be clearly defined, experience exists in a sufficient number of patients to allow adequate assessment of the risk:benefit relationship, and a proper historical context can be provided for analysis. We also discuss how response rates might be considered predictive of long‐term outcomes or clinically meaningful in and of themselves in certain contexts.
Genome‐wide association study identifies ABCG2 (BCRP) as an allopurinol transporter and a determinant of drug response
Authors: Wen CC , Yee SW , Liang X , Hoffmann TJ , Kvale MN , Banda Y , Jorgenson E , Schaefer C , Risch N , Giacomini KM
Published: February 2015

The first‐line treatment of hyperuricemia, which causes gout, is allopurinol. The allopurinol response is highly variable, with many users failing to achieve target serum uric acid (SUA) levels. No genome‐wide association study (GWAS) has examined the genetic factors affecting allopurinol effectiveness. Using 2,027 subjects in Kaiser Permanente's Genetic Epidemiology Research on Adult Health and Aging (GERA) Cohort, we conducted a GWAS of allopurinol‐related SUA reduction, first in the largest ethnic group, non‐Hispanic white (NHW) subjects, and then in a stratified transethnic meta‐analysis. ABCG2, encoding the efflux pump BCRP, was associated with SUA reduction in NHW subjects (P = 2 × 10−8), and a missense allele (rs2231142) was associated with a reduced response (P = 3 × 10−7) in the meta‐analysis. Isotopic uptake studies in cells demonstrated that BCRP transports allopurinol and genetic variants in ABCG2 affect this transport. Collectively, this first GWAS of allopurinol response demonstrates that ABCG2 is a key determinant of response to the drug.
Incorporating exposure‐response modeling into the assessment of QTc interval: A potential alternative to the thorough QT study
Authors: Bloomfield DM
Published: February 2015

ICH E14 mandates that a thorough QTc study (TQT) is conducted as part of the clinical drug development program to provide an accurate and precise estimate of a drug's effect on the QTc. In the April issue of CPT, Darpo et al. report the results of a study which validated an alternative approach to evaluating the effect of a drug on QTc using exposure‐response modeling in phase I which has the potential to make the TQT study obsolete.
Enhancing Low‐Grade Thermal Energy Recovery in a Thermally Regenerative Ammonia Battery Using Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Fang , LaBarge Nicole , Yang Wulin , Liu Jia , Logan Bruce E.
Published: February 2015

A thermally regenerative ammonia battery (TRAB) is a new approach for converting low‐grade thermal energy into electricity by using an ammonia electrolyte and copper electrodes. TRAB operation at 72 °C produced a power density of 236±8 W m−2, with a linear decrease in power to 95±5 W m−2 at 23 °C. The improved power at higher temperatures was due to reduced electrode overpotentials and more favorable thermodynamics for the anode reaction (copper oxidation). The energy density varied with temperature and discharge rates, with a maximum of 650 Wh m−3 at a discharge energy efficiency of 54 % and a temperature of 37 °C. The energy efficiency calculated with chemical process simulation software indicated a Carnot‐based efficiency of up to 13 % and an overall thermal energy recovery of 0.5 %. It should be possible to substantially improve these energy recoveries through optimization of electrolyte concentrations and by using improved ion‐selective membranes and energy recovery systems such as heat exchangers.
Use of PIT tags to assess individual heterogeneity of laboratory‐reared juveniles of the endangered Cumberlandian combshell (Epioblasma brevidens) in a mark–recapture study
Authors: Hua Dan , Jiao Yan , Neves Richard , Jones Jess
Published: February 2015

The federally endangered Cumberlandian combshell (Epioblasma brevidens) was propagated and reared to taggable size (5–10 mm), and released to the Powell River, Tennessee, to augment a relict population. Methodology using passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags on these mussels greatly facilitated the detection process. The overall mean detection probability and survival rate of released individuals reached 97.8 to 98.4% and 99.7 to 99.9% (per month), respectively, during nine successive recapture occasions in the 2‐year study period, regardless of seasonality. Nonhierarchical models and hierarchical models incorporating individual and seasonal variations through a Bayesian approach were compared and resulted in similar performance of prediction for detection probability and survival rate of mussels. This is the first study to apply the mark–recapture method to laboratory‐reared mussels using PIT tags and stochastic models. Quantitative analyses for individual heterogeneity allowed examination of demographic variance and effects of heterogeneity on population dynamics, although the individual and seasonal variations were small in this study. Our results provide useful information in implementing conservation strategies of this faunal group and a framework for other species or similar studies.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with angina and heart failure in the CHARM (Candesartan in Heart Failure Assessment of Reduction in Mortality and Morbidity) Programme
Authors: Badar Athar A. , Perez‐Moreno Ana C. , Hawkins Nathaniel M. , Brunton Alan P.T. , Jhund Pardeep S. , Wong Chih M. , Solomon Scott D. , Granger Christopher B. , Yusuf Salim , Pfeffer Marc A. , Swedberg Karl , Gardner Roy S. , Petrie Mark C. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: February 2015

Aims

To investigate the relationship between angina pectoris and fatal and non‐fatal clinical outcomes in heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HF‐REF and HF‐PEF, respectively).

Methods and results

Of 7599 patients in the CHARM program, 5408 had ischaemic heart disease; 3855 had HF‐REF (ejection fraction ≤45%) and 1553 had HF‐PEF. These patients were separated into three groups: no history of angina, previous angina, and current angina. Three coronary outcomes were examined: fatal or non‐fatal myocardial infarction (MI); MI or hospitalization for unstable angina (UA); and MI, UA or coronary revascularization. The composite heart failure outcome of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization (HFH) was also analysed, along with its components and all‐cause mortality. New York Heart Association functional class was worse in both HF‐REF and HF‐PEF patients with current angina compared with patients without angina (P < 0.001 and P = 0.005 respectively), despite similar clinical examination findings and ejection fraction. Patients with current angina had a higher risk of all three coronary outcomes (adjusted hazard ratios ranging from 1.8–3.1) than those without angina but did not have a higher risk of heart failure outcomes or all‐cause mortality.

Conclusion

In patients with heart failure current angina is associated with significantly more functional limitation and a higher risk of coronary events, across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction.
Intercalates of Strontium Phenylphosphonate with Alcohols – Structure Analysis by Experimental and Molecular Modeling Methods
Authors: Zima Vítězslav , Melánová Klára , Kovář Petr , Beneš Ludvík , Svoboda Jan , Pospíšil Miroslav , Růžička Aleš
Published: February 2015

Alcohol intercalated strontium phenylphosphonates were prepared by the addition of alcohols to an aqueous solution of strontium phenylphosphonate (SrPhP). These intercalates are unstable and de‐intercalate spontaneously at ambient conditions. For the complete elucidation of their structure, a combination of a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and molecular modeling was used. The structure of the host layers in methanol (SrPhP·MeOH) and ethanol (SrPhP·EtOH) intercalates is composed of strontium atoms, which are eight‐coordinate by oxygen atoms of the phosphonato groups and of water molecules. The structures of SrPhP·MeOH and SrPhP·EtOH differ in the orientation of the phenyl rings. The alcohol molecules reside in the cavities formed by the phenyl rings and are coordinated to the Sr atoms of the host layer through their oxygen atoms. On the basis of the structure of SrPhP·EtOH, the structures of propanol and butanol intercalates and of strontium phenylphosphonate dihydrate (SrPhP·2H2O) were modeled. The proposed model of SrPhP·2H2O, which features three kinds of water molecules, elucidates the temperature‐ and humidity‐dependent behavior of the compound.
Tomato peel powder as fat replacement in low‐fat sausages: Formulations with mechanically crushed powder exhibit higher stability than those with airflow ultra‐micro crushed powder
Authors: Wang Qiang , Xiong Zhengwei , Li Guijie , Zhao Xin , Wu Hongbin , Ren Yanrong
Published: February 2015

This study investigated the effect of addition of tomato peel powder, with different particle sizes as fat replacement, on the fatty acid composition and textural properties in low‐fat sausage for 48 days. Results indicated that the hardness of low‐fat sausages with no tomato powder (LFN) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of the other groups, and springiness decreased slightly at a higher powder level. During storage, the polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio of high‐fat samples with no powder (HFN) and low‐fat samples with no powder (LFN) decreased significantly relative to that of the other sausage samples (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a slight increase in yellowness was detected in most samples. Low‐fat sausage with powder prepared by airflow ultra‐micro crushing had lightness and redness values of 54.26 and 11.36, respectively. Thus, these values can be increased effectively by adding a small amount of tomato peel powder treated by the airflow ultra‐microcrushing method.

Practical applications: Tomato peel, an undervalued agro‐industrial waste of the tomato juice industry, contains non‐digestible fiber content that offers several physiological effects and therapeutic applications. To the best of our knowledge no studies have reported on the application of tomato powder as a fat analog in sausage and its contribution to the fatty acid and textural quality of sausage. The study reported here investigates the interactions between particles of tomato powder and fat levels on the overall quality of sausages.

Comparison of two different crushing systems show that TBARS of sausage containing airflow ultra‐micro crushing‐prepared tomato peel powder is higher than that of the sausages with conventional mechanical crushing‐prepared powder. Low‐fat sausage with powder prepared by airflow ultra‐micro crushing had lightness and redness. Overall, incorporation of tomato peel powder in the formulation successfully reduced the animal fat and improved the color and TBARS values of the final product.
Effective Nitration of Anilides and Acrylamides by tert‐Butyl Nitrite
Authors: Ji Yi‐fei , Yan Hong , Jiang Qi‐bai
Published: February 2015

Nitro compounds are important intermediates in synthetic organic chemistry and the chemical industry. Herein, the efficient copper‐catalyzed [10 % Cu(NO3)2·3H2O] nitration of anilides was developed by using TBN (tert‐butyl nitrite) as a nitrating reagent to give the corresponding nitro‐substituted aromatic products in good to excellent yields. The use of TBN also led to the selective nitration of acrylamides at room temperature to afford only the (E) isomer of the nitration product. A series of anilides and acrylamides with a broad array of functional groups were well‐tolerated by this procedure. This synthetic method has many advantages, which include inexpensive starting materials, mild reaction conditions, a fast reaction rate, and high yields. A mechanistic investigation indicates that a nitro radical, which is generated from the thermal homolysis of TBN, is involved in the two nitration processes.
One‐Pot Domino Synthesis of Polyfunctionalized Benzophenones, Dihydroxanthones, and m‐Terphenyls from 2‐(Polyfluoroalkyl)chromones
Authors: Sosnovskikh Vyacheslav Ya. , Korotaev Vladislav Yu. , Barkov Alexey Yu. , Kutyashev Igor B. , Safrygin Alexander V.
Published: February 2015

Whereas 2‐(polyfluoroalkyl)chromones activated by electron‐withdrawing substituents in the benzene ring react with 2‐(1‐phenylalkylidene)malononitriles in the presence of triethylamine in dichloromethane to produce a wide range of polyfunctionalized benzophenones and dihydroxanthones, their reactions with ethyl α‐cyano‐β‐methylcinnamate under the same conditions took an entirely different course and gave mainly m‐terphenyl derivatives. The difference in behavior between the ylidene derivatives of malononitrile and those of ethyl cyanoacetate is remarkable.
Intramolecular Halogen Bonding in Solution: 15N, 13C, and 19F NMR Studies of Temperature and Solvent Effects
Authors: Thorson Rachel A. , Woller Garrett R. , Driscoll Zakarias L. , Geiger Brooke E. , Moss Crystal A. , Schlapper Ashley L. , Speetzen Erin D. , Bosch Eric , Erdélyi Máté , Bowling Nathan P.
Published: February 2015

A model system for the investigation of intramolecular halogen bonds is introduced. Two molecules capable of intramolecular halogen bonding have been studied in comparison with eight control compounds by 15N, 13C, and 19F NMR spectroscopy. Iodine‐ and bromine‐centered halogen bonds are indicated by decreases in the 15N NMR chemical shifts of the halogen bond acceptor atom of approximately 6 and 1 ppm, respectively. 13C NMR chemical shifts of the alkynyl carbons in 2‐ethynylpyridine systems are good indicators of halogen bonding, with differences of up to 2.4 ppm between halogen‐bonded and related control compounds. Halogen bond strengths in different solvents, as indicated by 19F NMR chemical shifts, decrease in the following order: Cyclohexane > toluene > benzene > dichloromethane > acetone > pyridine. Chemical shift effects associated with the structural and electronic properties of intramolecular halogen‐bonded systems are modeled well by calculations at the B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d,p) level of theory.
Generalized Diffusion Parameter: Main Factors of Influence and Application for Estimation of Selectivity Coefficients for Highly Selective Electrodes
Authors: Zdrachek Elena A. , Nazarov Valentine A. , Egorov Vladimir V.
Published: February 2015

The influence of membrane composition, ion nature, measuring time and stirring mode on the generalized diffusion parameter q was investigated. It was found that the main factors of influence are PVC to plasticizer ratio and measuring time, which obey rigid regularities and can be estimated. It makes possible to evaluate the role of the diffusion factor for other systems and measuring conditions using some averaged q value determined for a limited set of systems. It was shown that averaged q value allowed reliable estimating of low selectivity coefficients (down to 10−8) from strongly biased values determined by separate solution method.
Direct Voltammetric Determination of Ascorbic Acid in Natural Paprika Fruits Without Sample Pretreatment
Authors: Öri Zsuzsanna , Nagy Lívia , Kiss László , Kovács Barna , Nagy Géza
Published: February 2015

Direct electrochemical measuring technique for estimation of the ascorbic acid (AA) content of freshly cut yellow pepper fruits without special sample treatment was worked out. Dialysis membrane modified glassy carbon electrode combined with short time chronoamperometric measuring method was employed to eliminate the interfering effect of tortuosity and electrode fouling. Viscosity change inside the diffusion layer was taken in account. AA content of the fruit was found to be 114.5 mg/100 g, and it is shown that the metal ions derived from iron blade are able to accelerate the oxidation process significantly. Classical iodometric titration was applied as a reference method.
Ionic cross‐linking of water‐soluble polyurethane improves protein encapsulation and release
Authors: Mattu Clara , Wang Tianran , Siri Armida , Sartori Susanna , Ciardelli Gianluca
Published: February 2015

Polymer nanoparticles (NPs) are promising systems for the delivery of protein drugs, as they enhance circulation half‐life, reduce degradation, and increase selectivity of the encapsulated agent. Among the different methods for the preparation of protein‐loaded NPs, ionotropic gelation—which exploits cross‐linking between charged groups in the polymer and counterions in the protein solution—has been extensively investigated for chitosan NPs. The present study aims at exploring the possibility to apply the method to prepare BSA‐loaded polyurethane NPs. A poly(ε‐caprolactone)/poly(ethyleneglicol)‐based polyurethane bearing tert‐butyloxycarbonyl‐protected amino groups was synthesized by a two‐step synthesis procedure. Amino functionalities were exposed under acidic conditions, as confirmed by ninhydrin assay, and then exploited to obtain ionic cross‐linking with sodium tripolyphosphate counterions. The effect of polymer and sodium tripolyphosphate concentration on particles size and BSA encapsulation has been investigated, showing that the PUR concentration plays a major role. Small particles, at 300 nm, with high BSA loading (90%) have been obtained. Sustained BSA release and low burst effect (20%) have been observed, indicating good interaction between the protein and the polymer matrix. The study highlights the possibility of introducing alternative polymers to improve loading and release of proteins from NPs obtained through the ionotropic gelation method.
Rapid detection and destruction of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck by nano‐quadrapeutics
Authors: Lukianova–Hleb Ekaterina Y. , Lapotko Dmitri O.
Published: February 2015

Survival and quality of life remain poor for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) that cannot be fully resected safely, and form therapy‐resistant residual and recurrent tumors. We report novel cell‐level technology, quadrapeutics. Quadrapeutics converts surgery, drug, and radiation therapies into on‐demand microtreatment that unites the diagnosis and treatment in 1 rapid procedure by using 4 standard components: (1) targeted gold colloids; (2) liposomal drugs; (3) a laser pulse; and (4) radiation, all at safe doses. The therapeutic strength of quadrapeutics increases with cancer aggressiveness. In animal models of a primary and microscopic residual HNSCC, quadrapeutics increased the efficacy of standard chemoradiation therapy by more than 17‐fold by using only 3% to 6% of clinical doses of drug and radiation, did not cause side effects, and detected residual microtumors in vivo intraoperatively. Quadrapeutics can be applied to detect and eradicate HNSCC and similar microtumors in a safe and rapid theranostic procedure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1547–1555, 2015
Novel method of cell line establishment utilizing fluorescence‐activated cell sorting resulting in 6 new head and neck squamous cell carcinoma lines
Authors: Owen John Henry , Graham Martin P. , Chinn Steven B. , Darr Owen F. , Chepeha Douglas B. , Wolf Gregory T. , Bradford Carol R. , Carey Thomas E. , Prince Mark E.P.
Published: February 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to present the establishment of new cell lines, which is important to cancer research.

Methods

Six new head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines were established using a novel fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) method in order to overcome the barrier of fibroblast overgrowth and the susceptibility of primary tumors to fail in vitro.

Results

Antibodies chosen for specific targeting of epithelial cells and fibroblasts successfully separated cells for line establishment in 6 of 12 attempts, providing an alternative method of establishing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. Each attempt at cell line establishment resulted in an epithelial carcinoma population, which was genotyped and catalogued as a unique cell line, and a corresponding fibroblast population.

Conclusion

The selection of antibody markers could be optimized to aid in the establishment of any cancer cell line derived from any tumor tissue; this method is not limited to head and neck cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E459–E467, 2016
Enantiospecific Synthesis of (R)‐3‐Amino‐4‐(2,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)butanoic Acid Using (S)‐Serine as a Chiral Pool
Authors: Köse Aytekin , Gündoğdu Özlem , Aktaş Derya , Fıstıkçı Meryem , Altundaş Ramazan , Seçen Hasan , Kara Yunus
Published: February 2015

Starting from (S)‐serine, a new method was developed for the synthesis of the β‐amino acid part of sitagliptin in ten steps and with an overall yield of 30%. The crucial step of the synthesis was the ring opening of N‐ and O‐protected (R)‐aziridin‐2‐methanol with (2,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)magnesium bromide to give N‐ and O‐protected (R)‐2‐amino‐3‐(2,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)propan‐1‐ol.
Synthesis of 6‐Aminoindolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐5‐carbonitriles by the Cu‐Catalyzed Reaction of 2‐(2‐Bromophenyl)‐1H‐indoles with CH2(CN)2
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Ezaki Kosuke , Hanioka Daisuke , Nozawa Ippei
Published: February 2015

A series of 6‐aminoindolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐5‐carbonitriles 4 have been prepared by treatment of 2‐(2‐bromophenyl)‐1H‐indoles 1, available from 1‐(2‐bromophenyl)ethanones or 1‐(2‐bromophenyl)propan‐1‐ones by using Fischer indole synthesis, with propanedinitrile in the presence of a catalytic amount of CuBr and an excess of K2CO3 in DMSO at 100°.
Induction of lymphoid hyperplasia and lymphoma‐like disease in rabbits by herpesvirus sylvilagus
Authors: Hinze Harry C.
Published: February 2015

Herpesvirus sylvilagus, a recently recognized virus indigenous to cottontail rabbits, was examined for its ability to produce experimental disease in its natural host. Infection led to the establishment of a persisting low‐grade viremia in which virus was found in the cellular portion of the blood for the entire observation period. Pathologic changes seen in infected animals were related exclusively to stimulation of the lymphoid organs which varied in intensity from mild to apparently malignant. The response in all cotton tails was a generalized lymphoid hyperplasia with a corresponding lymphocytosis and the appearance of large numbers of abnormal mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood. In addition, 27% of immature cottontails (juveniles) and 10% of adult animals showed a loss of normal lymph‐node structure and massive mononuclear cell infiltration of other organs which was unrelated to destruction of parenchymal cells by the virus and which resembled, in some respects, the histologic picture seen in malignant lymphoma.
The Impact of Policy Decisions on Global Liquidity During the Recent Financial Crisis
Authors: Satiroglu Sait , Sener Emrah , Shafer Michael , Yildirim Yildiray
Published: February 2015

The collapse of the recent housing price bubble precipitated the 2007–2008 financial crisis and caused international funding liquidity to dry up. We investigate how economic policies undertaken by the Federal Reserve and U.S. Treasury around the crisis impacted global liquidity by examining the covered interest rate parity (CIRP) condition. We find that swap lines orchestrated by the Fed, stress test announcements, asset purchase programs, and other economic policy and news events significantly impacted CIRP violations. Our findings indicate that policies undertaken during the crisis helped relieve market frictions in foreign exchange markets and that the impact of these policies differed for developed and emerging markets. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serum albumin coating of demineralized bone matrix results in stronger new bone formation
Authors: Horváthy Dénes B. , Vácz Gabriella , Szabó Tamás , Szigyártó Imola C. , Toró Ildikó , Vámos Boglárka , Hornyák István , Renner Károly , Klára Tamás , Szabó Bence T. , Dobó‐Nagy Csaba , Doros Attila , Lacza Zsombor
Published: February 2015

Blood serum fractions are hotly debated adjuvants in bone replacement therapies. In the present experiment, we coated demineralized bone matrices (DBM) with serum albumin and investigated stem cell attachment in vitro and bone formation in a rat calvaria defect model. In the in vitro experiments, we observed that significantly more cells adhere to the serum albumin coated DBMs at every time point. In vivo bone formation with albumin coated and uncoated DBM was monitored biweekly by computed tomography until 11 weeks postoperatively while empty defects served as controls. By the seventh week, the bone defect in the albumin group was almost completely closed (remaining defect 3.0 ± 2.3%), while uncoated DBM and unfilled control groups still had significant defects (uncoated: 40.2 ± 9.1%, control: 52.4 ± 8.9%). Higher density values were also observed in the albumin coated DBM group. In addition, the serum albumin enhanced group showed significantly higher volume of newly formed bone in the microCT analysis and produced significantly higher breaking force and stiffness compared to the uncoated grafts (peak breaking force: uncoated: 15.7 ± 4 N, albumin 46.1 ± 11 N). In conclusion, this investigation shows that implanting serum albumin coated DBM significantly reduces healing period in nonhealing defects and results in mechanically stronger bone. These results also support the idea that serum albumin coating provides a convenient milieu for stem cell function, and a much improved bone grafting success can be achieved without the use of exogenous stem cells. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 126–132, 2016.
Mechanical properties of α‐tricalcium phosphate‐based bone cements incorporating regenerative biomaterials for filling bone defects exposed to low mechanical loads
Authors: Harrison Reed , Criss Zachary K. , Feller Lacie , Modi Shan P. , Hardy John G. , Schmidt Christine E. , Suggs Laura J. , Murphy Matthew B.
Published: February 2015

Calcium phosphate‐based cements with enhanced regenerative potential are promising biomaterials for the healing of bone defects in procedures such as percutaneous vertebroplasty. With a view to the use of such cements for low load bearing applications such as sinus augmentation or filling extraction sites. However, the inclusion of certain species into bone cement formulations has the potential to diminish the mechanical properties of the formulations and thereby reduce their prospects for clinical translation. Consequently, we have prepared α‐tricalcium phosphate (α‐TCP)‐based bone cements including materials that we would expect to improve their regenerative potential, and describe the mechanical properties of the resulting formulations herein. Formulations incorporated α‐TCP, hydroxyapatite, biopolymer‐thickened wetting agents, sutures, and platelet poor plasma. The mechanical properties of the composites were composition dependent, and optimized formulations had clinically relevant mechanical properties. Such calcium phosphate‐based cements have potential as replacements for cements such as those based on polymethylmethacrylate. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 149–157, 2016.