bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orthogonal Oriented Bisanthrancene‐Bridged Bis(Triarylamine) Diradical Dications: Isolation, Characterizations and Crystal Structures
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Li , Fang Yong , Zhao Yue , Tan Gengwen , Wang Xinping
Published: February 2019

Two bis(triarylamine) diradical dication salts 12+2[Al(ORF)4]− and 22+2[Al(ORF)4]− bridged with an orthogonal oriented bisanthrancene motif were synthesized. Their solid state and electronic structures were investigated by various experimental approaches in conjunction with theoretical calculations. Superconducting quantum interference device measurements and density functional theory calculations reveal that both of 12+ and 22+ feature open‐shell singlet ground states with rather small singlet‐triplet energy gaps; thus, they can be regarded as nearly pure diradicals (biradicals). Their diradical characters are enhanced by the orthogonal configuration of the bisanthrancene moiety which demonstrates the importance of the geometry of bridging units in turning the electronic structures of bis(triarylamine) dications.
Rational Design of a Carbon‐Boron Frustrated Lewis Pair for Metal‐free Dinitrogen Activation
Authors: Zhu Jun
Published: February 2019

Molecular nitrogen (N2) is abundant in the atmosphere and, found in many biomolecules, an essential element of life. The Haber–Bosch process, developed over 100 years ago, requires relatively harsh conditions to activate N2 on the iron surface and generate ammonia for use as fertilizer or to produce other chemicals, leading to consumption of more than 2 % of the world's annual energy supply. Thus, developing “green” approaches for N2 activation under mild conditions is particularly important and urgent. Here we demonstrate that a metal‐free N2 activation could be favorable both thermodynamically and kinetically (with an activation energy as low as 9.1 kcal mol−1) by using a carbon‐boron formal frustrated Lewis pair, which is supported by high‐level coupled cluster calculations. Mechanistic studies reveal that aromaticity plays a crucial role in stabilizing both the transition state and the product. Our findings highlight the importance of a combination of an N‐heterocyclic carbene with a methyleneborane unit in metal‐free N2 activation, providing conceptual guidance for experimental realization.
Exploring the contributions and suitability of relational and community‐centered fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) prevention work in First Nation communities
Authors: Pei Jacqueline , Carlson Elizabeth , Tremblay Melissa , Poth Cheryl
Published: February 2019

Background

This study provides initial evidence of the contributions and suitability of relational, trauma‐informed, and community‐based approaches for programs aimed at the prevention of future alcohol‐and drug‐exposed births. Specifically, this study extends understanding of the experiences of mentors providing evidence‐based 3‐year home visitation services through the Parent–Child Assistance Program (PCAP) in rural and isolated First Nation communities in Alberta, Canada.

Methods

Using a participatory approach to this research project, we explored existing PCAP services to capture implementation across six rural and isolated Alberta fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) networks involving First Nation communities over an 8‐month period. In total, we generated qualitative data with 35 participants to examine mentors' perceptions of the impacts and suitability of a relational, trauma‐informed, and community‐based approach to service delivery.

Results

Six major themes were revealed from the thematic analysis as key mechanisms of culturally responsive program delivery across the six FASD networks.

Conclusions

Relational, trauma‐informed, and community‐centered FASD prevention programming was perceived to have positive impacts and be well suited for use within Indigenous communities, and allow for service delivery to be locally and culturally responsive.
Dimerization of Proline Dehydrogenase from Thermus thermophilus Is Crucial for Its Thermostability
Authors: Huijbers Mieke M. E. , Wu Jenny W. , Westphal Adrie H. , van Berkel Willem J. H.
Published: February 2019

Thermus thermophilus proline dehydrogenase (
TtProDH) catalyzes the first step in proline catabolism. The thermostable flavoenzyme consists of a distorted triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) barrel and three N‐terminal helices: αA, αB, and αC. Using maltose‐binding protein (MBP) fused constructs, it has been recently demonstrated that helix αC is crucial for TtProDH catalysis and for tetramerization through positioning of helix α8. Here, the structural features that determine the thermostability of TtProDH are reported. Selective disruption of two ion pairs in the dimerization interface of several MBP‐TtProDH variants result in the formation of monomers. The newly created monomers have improved catalytic properties but their melting temperatures are decreased by more than 20 °C. Sequence comparison suggests that one of the ion‐pairs involved in dimerization is unique for ProDHs from Thermus species. In summary, intermolecular ion‐pairs improve the thermostability of TtProDH and a trade‐off is made between thermostability and catalytic activity.
Construction of a Model Culture System of Human Colonic Microbiota to Detect Decreased Lachnospiraceae Abundance and Butyrogenesis in the Feces of Ulcerative Colitis Patients
Authors: Sasaki Kengo , Inoue Jun , Sasaki Daisuke , Hoshi Namiko , Shirai Tomokazu , Fukuda Itsuko , Azuma Takeshi , Kondo Akihiko , Osawa Ro
Published: February 2019

Compositional alteration of the gut microbiota is associated with ulcerative colitis (UC). Here, a model culture system is established for the in vitro human colonic microbiota of UC, which will be helpful for determining medical interventions. 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing confirms that UC models are successfully developed from fecal inoculum and retain the bacterial species biodiversity of UC feces. The UC models closely reproduce the microbial components and successfully preserve distinct clusters from the healthy subjects (HS), as observed in the feces. The relative abundance of bacteria belonging to the family Lachnospiraceae significantly decreases in the UC models compared to that in HS, as observed in the feces. The system detects significantly lower butyrogenesis in the UC models than that in HS, correlating with the decreased abundance of Lachnospiraceae. Interestingly, the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae does not correlate with disease activity (defined as partial Mayo score), suggesting that Lachnospiraceae persists in UC patients at a decreased level, irrespective of the alteration in disease activity. Moreover, the system shows that administration of Clostridium butyricum MIYAIRI restores butyrogenesis in the UC model. Hence, the model detects deregulation in the intestinal environment in UC patients and may be useful for simulating the effect of probiotics.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy in microinvasive ductal carcinomain situ
Authors: Magnoni F , Massari G , Santomauro G , Bagnardi V , Pagan E , Peruzzotti G , Galimberti V , Veronesi P , Sacchini V S
Published: February 2019

Background

Microinvasive breast cancer is an uncommon pathological entity. Owing to the rarity of this condition, its surgical axillary management and overall prognosis remain controversial.

Methods

A database was analysed to identify patients with microinvasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who had surgery for invasive breast cancer at the European Institute of Oncology, Milan, between 1998 and 2010. Women who had undergone axillary staging by sentinel lymph node biopsy were included in the study.

Results

Of 257 women with microinvasive breast cancer who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), 226 (87·9 per cent) had negative sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) and 31 had metastatic SLNs. Twelve patients had isolated tumour cells (ITCs), 14 had micrometastases and five had macrometastases in sentinel nodes. Axillary lymph node dissection was performed in 16 of the 31 patients with positive SLNs. After a median follow-up of 11 years, only one regional first event was observed in the 15 patients with positive SLNs who did not undergo axillary lymph node dissection. There were no regional first events in the 16 patients with positive SLNs who had axillary dissection.

Conclusion

Good disease-free and overall survival were found in women with positive SLNs and microinvasive DCIS. This study is in line with studies showing that SLNB in microinvasive DCIS may not be useful, and supports the evidence that less surgery can provide the same level of overall survival with better quality of life.
An innovative bioanalytical research project course to train undergraduate students on liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Alneyadi Aysha , Shah Iltaf , Ashraf Syed Salman
Published: February 2019

Active‐learning strategies such as undergraduate research courses and course‐based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), which engage students in the practical experiments, have been reported as efficient ways for effective teaching and training of graduating students. Recently, many practical examples have been published in various fields to develop critical skills needed by undergraduate students for graduate school or the workforce; however, very few examples have been published for bioanalytical topics, specifically, Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC–MS–MS). Herein, we describe an innovative undergraduate research course that was used to train well‐prepared graduating seniors on LC–MS–MS and in developing a sensitive method for detecting vitamin B9 (folic acid) levels in different milk samples. During this semester‐long exercise, the students were exposed to literature review, basic UV–Vis spectroscopy, and HPLC and LC–MS–MS techniques. Additionally, as part of this laboratory‐based research course, they researched published approaches on analyzing folic acid in food samples and devised a method to extract and quantify folic acid levels in different brands of milk using LC–MS–MS instruments. Feedback from students and faculty members was very positive as the students felt that this opportunity helped them to become more comfortable using HPLC and LC–MS–MS instruments and felt empowered to answer real‐life analytical problems. This laboratory‐based undergraduate research course can also be modified and used as an advanced bioanalytical laboratory exercise in biochemistry or analytical chemistry courses. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(3):228–238, 2019.
Beta oscillations in the sensorimotor cortex correlate with disease and remission in benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Authors: Song Dan Y. , Stoyell Sally M. , Ross Erin E. , Ostrowski Lauren M. , Thorn Emily L. , Stufflebeam Steven M. , Morgan Amy K. , Emerton Britt C. , Kramer Mark A. , Chu Catherine J.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is a common form of childhood epilepsy with the majority of those afflicted remitting during their early teenage years. Seizures arise from the lower half of the sensorimotor cortex of the brain (e.g. seizure onset zone) and the abnormal epileptiform discharges observed increase during NREM sleep. To date no clinical factors reliably predict disease course, making determination of ongoing seizure risk a significant challenge. Prior work in BECTS have shown abnormalities in beta band (14.9–30 Hz) oscillations during movement and rest. Oscillations in this frequency band are modulated by state of consciousness and thought to reflect intrinsic inhibitory mechanisms.

Methods

We used high density EEG and source localization techniques to examine beta band activity in the seizure onset zone (sensorimotor cortex) in a prospective cohort of children with BECTS and healthy controls during sleep. We hypothesized that beta power in the sensorimotor cortex would be different between patients and healthy controls, and that beta abnormalities would improve with resolution of disease in this self‐limited epilepsy syndrome. We further explored the specificity of our findings and correlation with clinical features. Statistical testing was performed using logistic and standard linear regression models.

Results

We found that beta band power in the seizure onset zone is different between healthy controls and BECTS patients. We also found that a longer duration of time spent seizure‐free (corresponding to disease remission) correlates with lower beta power in the seizure onset zone. Exploratory spatial analysis suggests this effect is not restricted to the sensorimotor cortex. Exploratory frequency analysis suggests that this phenomenon is also observed in alpha and gamma range activity. We found no relationship between beta power and the presence or rate of epileptiform discharges in the sensorimotor cortex or a test of sensorimotor performance.

Conclusion

These results provide evidence that cortical beta power in the seizure onset zone may provide a dynamic physiological biomarker of disease in BECTS.
Serum level of soluble interleukin‐2 receptor is positively correlated with metabolic tumor volume on 18F‐FDG PET/CT in newly diagnosed patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Senjo Hajime , Kanaya Minoru , Izumiyama Koh , Minauchi Koichiro , Hirata Kenji , Mori Akio , Saito Makoto , Tanaka Masanori , Iijima Hiroaki , Tsukamoto Eriko , Itoh Kazuo , Ota Shuichi , Morioka Masanobu , Hashimoto Daigo , Teshima Takanori ,   North Japan Hematology Study Group (NJHSG)
Published: February 2019

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most frequent subtype of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. High total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) calculated using 18F‐FDG PET/CT images at diagnosis predicts poor prognosis of patients with DLBCL. However, high cost and poor access to the imaging facilities hamper wider use of 18F‐FDG PET/CT. In order to explore a surrogate marker for TMTV, we evaluated the correlation between the serum levels of soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R) and TMTV in 64 patients with DLBCL, and the results were verified in an independent validation cohort of 86 patients. Serum levels of sIL‐2R were significantly correlated with TMTV. ROC analysis revealed that the cutoff value of TMTV ≥150 cm3 or sIL‐2R ≥ 1300 U/mL could predict failure to achieve EFS24 with areas under the curve (AUC) 0.706 and 0.758, respectively. Each of TMTV ≥150 cm3 and sIL‐2R ≥1300 U/mL was significantly associated with worse 5‐year overall survival and event‐free survival. Importantly, each of sIL‐2R <1300 U/mL or TMTV <150 cm3 identified patients with favorable prognosis among NCCN‐IPI high‐intermediate and high‐risk group. Serum level of sIL‐2R represents a convenient surrogate marker to estimate metabolic tumor burden measured by 18F‐FDG PET/CT that can predict treatment outcomes of patients with DLBCL.
Impact on immigrant screening adherence with introduction of a population‐based colon screening program in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Moustaqim‐Barrette Amina , Spinelli John J. , Kazanjian Arminée , Dummer Trevor J.B.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The literature suggests that differential colorectal cancer (CRC) screening adherence exists between Canada’s immigrant and nonimmigrant populations. This study explores the impact of Ontario’s population screening program, ColonCancerCheck, on CRC screening uptake in immigrant and nonimmigrant population groups.

Methods

Data from 2005, 2007‐2008, and 2011‐2012 was obtained from the Canadian Community Health Survey, to represent the intervention periods (the time periods before, during, and after implementation of the ColonCancerCheck intervention). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the effect of immigration status on the risk of nonadherence to guideline‐recommended CRC screening, and an interaction analysis was performed to determine whether the screening differential between immigrant and nonimmigrant populations changed upon introduction of the ColonCancerCheck program.

Results

Recent and long‐term immigrants were both at increased risk of CRC screening nonadherence compared to the Canadian‐born population (OR 3.73 (CI 2.25‐6.18) and OR 1.24 (CI 1.13‐1.36), respectively). While not statistically significant, there was an attenuation of the risk of nonadherence to screening for recent immigrants compared with Canadian‐born individuals after the implementation of the ColonCancerCheck program.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of a screening differential between immigrants and nonimmigrants, and suggests that the implementation of the ColonCancerCheck screening program in Ontario may have increased colon screening uptake amongst recent immigrants. Further studies are needed to address the factors leading to inequities in immigrant CRC screening adherence.
Poor prognostic and staging value of tumor deposit in locally advanced rectal cancer with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Zhang Jing , Zhou Menglong , Yang Lifeng , Wan Juefeng , Shen Lijun , Liang Liping , Yao Ye , Zhang Hui , Zhang Zhen
Published: February 2019

Tumor deposit (TD) was associated with poor survival in colorectal cancer. However, its prognostic and staging value in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (neo‐CRT) is controversial. Four hundred and ninety‐five LARC patients following neo‐CRT and surgery were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Kaplan‐Meier method and Cox proportional hazards regression in all lymph node (LN) ‐negative and LN‐positive patients. Next, we used three methods to classify the counts of LNs and TDs (oN, only LN counts; n1N, counts according to the N1c standards; n2N, total counts of LNs and TDs) to evaluate the impact of TD on N staging. TD‐positive patients were associated with more aggressive clinicopathological features. In multivariate analyses, TD was an independent poor prognostic factor of overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), and local recurrence‐free survival in all patients. In LN‐negative patients, TD was an independent poor prognostic factor of OS, DFS and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS). In LN‐positive patients, TD has poor prognostic value only in patients with one positive LN. Three multivariate analyses according to three N staging methods showed that oN was not an independent prognostic factor, whereas n1N and n2N were independently associated with poor survival in OS, DFS and DMFS. The n2N method seemed to be better than n1N method. TD is an independent poor prognostic factor in LARC patients following neo‐CRT, especially in patients with no more than one positive LN. TD probably should be considered as one positive LN when performing N staging.
Treatment of rotablation‐induced ostial left circumflex perforation by papyrus covered stent and its fenestration to recover the left anterior descending artery during CHIP procedure
Authors: Adusumalli Srikanth , Gaikwad Niranjan , Raffel Chris , Dautov Rustem
Published: February 2019

Coronary artery perforation is a rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Covered stents have been successfully used in these situations. We report a case of ostial left circumflex (LCx) artery perforation during rotablation PCI of left main coronary artery (LMCA) and LCx artery. After failed attempts to balloon tamponade the perforation, a PK Papyrus covered stent was deployed from proximal LCx into LMCA. This resulted in acute exclusion of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery from coronary circulation. Using a dual lumen catheter, a stiff wire was advanced through the side port toward the occluded LAD to fenestrate the membrane of the covered stent. A series of balloons were used to dilate the fenestration in the covered stent to restore a normal flow into the LAD.
Hydraulic stimulation of carotid artery baroreceptors as a likely cause of transient asystolic cardiac arrest during diagnostic angiography or surgical endarterectomy
Authors: Welch Tasha L. , Law Luke A. , Lanzino Giuseppe , Lanier William L.
Published: February 2019

We describe two patients—both who underwent general anesthesia—in whom we theorize that hydraulic pressure on carotid artery baroreceptors resulted in transient asystolic cardiac arrest (TACA) during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Patient #1 was a 58‐year‐old female who experienced TACA in response to rapid injection of radiocontrast material into the carotid artery during diagnostic cerebral angiography. Her history was remarkable for aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage at least 13 hr prior to angiography, radiographic evidence of intracranial hypertension, and baseline bradycardia, collectively suggestive of increases in baseline vagal tone. Potentially contributing to TACA, the patient had a 90° curve in the internal carotid artery, just distal to the carotid bifurcation and tip of the angiography catheter, that likely diminished runoff of injected contrast solution and, in turn, would have exacerbated any intracarotid pressure increases in response to injection. There was no evidence of increased baseline vagal tone in Patient #2, a 79‐year‐old female having carotid endarterectomy surgery. She experienced TACA immediately after full release of an occlusive clamp on the common carotid artery proximal to the now closed carotid arteriotomy, but while the internal carotid was still occluded. Of note, the carotid artery baroreceptors were not treated with local anesthetic in these patients, thus they should have retained much of their normal function. We describe the possible pathomechanisms involved in TACA in these patients, measures to diminish the likelihood of the phenomenon occurring in future patients, and methods for treating the asystole.
Percutaneous treatment of mitral regurgitation in patients with impaired ventricular function: Impact of intracardiac electronic devices (from the German Transcatheter Mitral Valve Interventions Registry)
Authors: D'Ancona Giuseppe , Ince Hüseyin , Schillinger Wolfgang , Senges Jochen , Ouarrak Taoufik , Butter Christian , Seifert Martin , Schau Thomas , Lubos Edith , Boekstegers Peter , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Safak Erdal
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To identify prevalence/impact of previous implantation of cardiac electronic devices (CEDs), such as cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and cardiac resynchronization (CRT), in a group of MitraClip (MC) candidates with LVEF < 30%.

Background

MC therapy is nowadays often considered in patients with depressed left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF%) and symptomatic severe secondary MR.

Methods

Data from the German Transcatheter Mitral Valve Interventions (TRAMIs) registry were analyzed. Patients with pre‐procedural LVEF <30% were selected and divided according to the presence of CEDs. Pre‐procedural, peri‐procedural, and 1‐year follow‐up data were analyzed.

Results

Out of 689 MC patients, 235 had LVEF<30%. Of these, 23% (54/235) had CRT, 36.6% (86/235) ICD, and 40.4% (95/235) had no CEDs. Risk profile was similar (median STS score CRT 6.0 (IQR: 3.0–12.0); ICD 7.0 (IQR: 4.0–12.0); No‐CED 6.5 (IQR: 2.0–10.0); p = 0.8). No procedural mortality was observed and hospital mortality was 5.6% in CRT, 2.3% in ICD, and 3.2% in No‐CED (p = 0.5). At discharge, severe MV regurgitation was reported in 3.8% of CRT, 3.7% of ICD, and 1.1% of No‐CED (p = 0.9). One year estimated survival (CRT 75.7%; ICD 75.8%; No‐CED 78%; p = 0.94) and freedom from MACCE (CRT 73.6%; ICD 75.8%; No‐CED 74.5%; p = 0.88) were similar.

Conclusions

A third of patients have been already submitted to CEDs implantation at time of referral for MC therapy and 40% of those with severely depressed LVEF% arrive to MC therapy before ICD/CRT implantation. The presence of CED does not impair acute MC therapy success. Mid‐term follow‐up outcomes are similar in patients with and without CEDs.
Catheter based treatments for fibrosing mediastinitis
Authors: Fender Erin A. , Widmer R. Jay , Knavel Koepsel Erica M. , Welby John P. , Kern Ryan , Peikert Tobias , Bjarnason Haraldur , Holmes David R.
Published: February 2019

Fibrosing mediastinitis is a rare, often debilitating and potentially lethal disease characterized by an exuberant fibroinflammatory response within the mediastinum. Patients typically present with insidious symptoms related to compression of adjacent structures including the esophagus, heart, airways, and cardiac vessels. Fibrosing mediastinitis is most often triggered by Histoplasmosis infection; however, antifungal and anti‐inflammatory therapies are largely ineffective. While structural interventions aimed at alleviating obstruction can provide significant palliation, surgical interventions are challenging with high mortality and clinical experience with percutaneous interventions is limited. Here, we will review the presentation, natural history, and treatment of fibrosing mediastinitis, placing particular emphasis on catheter‐based therapies.
Quality of wheat flour and pan bread as influenced by the tempering time and milling system
Authors: Abo‐Dief Mohammed , Abo‐Bakr Taisser , Youssef Mohammed , Moustafa Ayat
Published: February 2019

Background and objectives

The effect of the tempering time and milling system (normal vs. hard) on the quality of wheat flour and pan bread was investigated for Australian and Russian wheat. Tempering was carried out for 12, 24, and 36 hr. Tempered kernels were milled by a system controlled by a Bühler automatic programmable logic controller.

Findings

Hard milling resulted in a significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher extraction rate, ash content, and milling efficiency index than normal milling. Normal milling resulted in a significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) gluten index (99.20–99.65). The amount of damaged starch in the two wheat cultivars was increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) by hard milling. The highest stability times (18.5 and 7 min) were observed for normal milled Australian and Russian wheat tempered for 36 and 24 hr, respectively. Alveograph data illustrated the superiority of Australian over Russian wheat flour.

Conclusions

To produce high‐quality flour and consequently highly acceptable pan bread, kernels of Australian and Russian wheat should be tempered for 12 and 24 hr, respectively. Normal milling was superior to hard milling for both Australian and Russian wheat.

Significance and novelty

Optimization of the tempering time and milling system for wheat kernels on a large scale.
Clinical practice of personalized prophylaxis in hemophilia: Illustrations of experiences and benefits from two continents
Authors: Jackson Shannon , Santoro Cristina , Gue Deborah , Ferretti Antonietta , Gaglioti Domenico , Squire Sandra , Mazzucconi Maria Gabriella , Hermans Cedric
Published: February 2019

Key Clinical Message

These cases of people with hemophilia (PWH) illustrate the importance of understanding the patient's expectations and desires and adapting treatment to meet these needs, in addition to traditional clinical targets. Population PK modeling and FVIII products with improved PK profiles provide the opportunity to individualize care and improve long‐term outcomes.
A case of palisaded neutrophilic granulomatous dermatitis with subsequent development of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Kyriakou Aikaterini , Patsatsi Aikaterini , Papadopoulos Vassilios , Kioumi Anna , Efstratiou Ioannis , Lazaridou Elizabeth
Published: February 2019

Key Clinical Message

Palisaded neutrophilic granulomatous dermatitis is a cutaneous marker of a systemic disease. Clinicians’ goal should be directed toward determining an underlying condition. Even if the initial investigation is inconclusive, it may be necessary that some tests are repeated, since a serious underlying disease could be revealed in the course of time.
Selective Electroreduction of CO2 to C2 Products over Cu3N‐Derived Cu Nanowires
Authors: Mi Yuying , Shen Sibo , Peng Xianyun , Bao Haihong , Liu Xijun , Luo Jun
Published: February 2019

Electrochemical reduction of CO2 to value‐added multicarbon products, which can be used as fuels or indirectly as fuel precursors, is a promising approach to reduce CO2 levels and mitigate the energy crisis. However, poor product selectivity is still a major obstacle in the development of CO2 reduction. Here, Cu3N‐derived Cu nanowires, with a high density of grain boundaries, are synthesized and demonstrated as an efficient electrocatalyst for electrochemical reduction CO2 to C2 products. The as‐prepared catalyst exhibits excellent activity and selectivity for the production of C2 products, with a maximum faradaic efficiency of 86 % at −1.0 V, and long‐term stability throughout 28 h of electrolysis.
Experimental Methods in Chemical Engineering: Particle Size Distribution by Laser Diffraction—PSD
Authors: Li He , Li Jingwen , Bodycomb Jeffrey , Patience Gregory S.
Published: February 2019

Particle size is the top cited physical property researchers report in The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering and among the top properties in all science disciplines.
[1] Techniques to measure particle size distribution (PSD) include physical operations like sieving and sedimentation, and spectroscopic techniques like laser diffraction image analysis based on optical and electron microscopy, and elecro‐zone instruments. Here we concentrate on laser diffraction analysis (LDA) and review its basic principles, operations, limitations, uncertainties, and mention how it compares to other techniques. LDA is an instantaneous, user‐friendly, convenient, and non‐destructive method to assess PSD of inorganic powders. It measures the scattering angle and intensity of light after it passes through diluted particle dispersions suspended in either a gas or liquid. The Mie theory is an exact solution to resolve the diffraction intensity of light caused by particles that applies to while the Fraunhoffer approximation applies only to particles greater than 20 m. The 95 % confidence interval of five measurements of 56 m and 0.1 m irregularly shaped polyhedrons was . Based on a bibliometric analysis of LDA of the top 10 000 cited articles in 2016 and 2017, the major research clusters are: particle measurement, powder behaviour, pharmacy, comminution, and adsorption. Future work will continue to introduce more laser sources, combine multiple technologies, implement mobile light sources (dynamic light scattering), and better define characterize irregularly shaped particles.
Acid‐Catalysed Conversion of Carbohydrates into Furan‐Type Molecules in Zinc Chloride Hydrate
Authors: Bodachivskyi Iurii , Kuzhiumparambil Unnikrishnan , Williams D. Bradley G.
Published: February 2019

Acid‐catalysed conversion of biomass, specifically cellulose, holds promise to create value‐added, renewable replacements for many petrochemical products. We investigated an unusual acid‐catalysed transformation of cellulose and cellobiose in the biphasic solvent system zinc chloride hydrate (ionic liquid)/anisole. Here, furyl hydroxymethyl ketone and furfural are obtained as major products, which are valuable but less commonly formed in high yields in transformations of cellulosic substrates. We explored this chemistry in small‐scale model reactions and applied the optimised methods to the conversion of cellulose in bench‐scale processes. The optimum reaction system and preferred reaction conditions are defined to select for highly desirable furanoid products in the highest known yields (up to 46 %) directly from cellulose or cellobiose. The method avoids the use of added catalysts: the ionic solvent zinc chloride hydrate possesses the intrinsic acidity required for the hydrolysis and chemical transformation steps. The process involves inexpensive media for the catalytic conversion of cellulose into high‐value products under mild processing conditions.
Efficient Synthesis of Quinazolinones by Transition‐Metal‐Free Direct Aerobic Oxidative Cascade Annulation of Alcohols witho‐Aminoarylnitriles
Authors: Wang Qi , Lv Miao , Liu Jianping , Li Yang , Xu Qing , Zhang Xu , Cao Hongen
Published: February 2019

A mild and atom‐economic method was developed for direct and efficient synthesis of quinazolinones through a transition‐metal‐free aerobic oxidative cascade annulation reaction of widely availableo‐aminoarylnitriles and alcohols. Air could be employed as an effective oxidant under mild conditions, generating water as the only byproduct. Possibly owing to the “cesium effect”, the water‐soluble base CsOH was found to be crucial in all key steps of the reaction mechanism. Because a wide range of substrates can be used to prepare substituted quinazolinones without contamination by transition‐metal residues, this method may be of interest for application in pharmaceutical synthesis. Possible reaction paths were also proposed according to control reactions.
The co‐predictive value of a cardiovascular score for CV outcomes in diabetic patients with no atrial fibrillation
Authors: Patti Giuseppe , Sticchi Alessandro , Pasceri Vincenzo , Ricci Fabrizio , Renda Giulia , Hamrefors Viktor , Melander Olle , Sutton Richard , Engström Gunnar , De Caterina Raffaele , Fedorowski Artur
Published: February 2019

Background

Risk factors included in the cardiovascular (CHA2DS2‐VASc) score, currently used for atrial fibrillation (AF), may predispose to cardiovascular events whether or not AF is present. The aim was to explore the predictive role of CHA2DS2‐VASc score on cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients without AF.

Methods

We accessed individual data from 610 diabetic patients without AF at baseline included in the prospective cohort of the Malmö Diet and Cancer study. Main outcome measure was the occurrence of cardiovascular events (stroke, coronary events) and death. Mean follow‐up was 14.5 ± 5 years (8845 person/years).

Results

The CHA2DS2‐VASc score significantly predicted the risk of all outcome measures. There was a significant increase in stroke, coronary events, and death risk by each point of CHA2DS2‐VASc score elevation [stroke: adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.43, 95% CI 1.14‐1.79, P = 0.001; coronary events: aHR 1.55, 95% CI 1.34‐1.80, P < 0.0001; death: aHR 1.94, 95% CI 1.71‐2.21, P < 0.0001]. A CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥4 was associated with higher incidence of ischemic stroke (aHR 1.47, 95% CI 1.18‐1.82; P = 0.001), coronary events (aHR 1.32; 95% CI 1.11‐1.58; P = 0.002), and death (aHR 1.36; 95% CI 1.20‐1.54; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this population‐based study on diabetic patients without AF, the CHA2DS2‐VASc score was an independent predictor of ischemic stroke, coronary events, and overall mortality. Regardless of the AF status, the CHA2DS2‐VASc score might represent a rapid and user‐friendly tool for clinical assessment of diabetic patients at higher cardiovascular risk.
Controlling the Growth of LiBH4 Nanoparticles for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Wang Ting , Aguey‐Zinsou Kondo‐Francois
Published: February 2019

LiBH4 is a potentially promising material to store high‐density hydrogen reversibly. However, its practical use is hindered by the poor reversibility and excessive temperature required for hydrogen release. Nanosizing and the core–shell approach in particular are effective strategies to enable hydrogen reversibility at low temperatures because the properties of LiBH4 highly depend upon particle size. In this context, the development of synthetic methods and understanding to tune the particle size of LiBH4 has become important. The synthesis of isolated LiBH4 nanoparticles stabilized by different surfactants by the solvent evaporation method is reported. The surfactants’ chain length, their steric hindrance, and the ability of the surfactant head group to bind strongly to LiBH4 are found to control the growth and stabilization of LiBH4 nanoparticles. In particular, long linear chains with hard‐type head groups are preferable for the synthesis of LiBH4 particles <20 nm.
Analytical examination for the stability of a competent stratum and implications for longwall coal mining
Authors: Li Yingchun
Published: February 2019

Rational estimation of the mechanical state of a competent rock layer is of prime importance for structural and support design in longwall coal mining. This paper analytically examines the stability of a voussoir‐structured stiff rock by considering it acting as a symmetric flat arch with discontinuities at the abutments and midspan. Three typical failure modes including snap through, midspan crush and sliding failure are inspected. The solution assumes that the shape of the compressive arch obeys a parabolic variation as the voussoir beam deflects downwards with large‐deformation. The crush failure due to stress concentration in the beam hinge is predicted by relating the squeezing area with the beam rotation, which is absent in previous studies. The proposed approach can examine the voussoir beam stability without cumbersome iteration. Primarily, this work facilitates the evaluation of the support requirements to reinforce roof beds in longwall panels. After accounting for the total loads of the overlying rock layers, the stability assessment developed in this paper can further be utilized to predict the span limit of the main roof above a longwall panel and to estimate the critical width which governs the magnitude of mining subsidence.
Changes in the wind‐wave field and related salt‐marsh lateral erosion: inferences from the evolution of the Venice Lagoon in the last four centuries
Authors: Tommasini Laura , Carniello Luca , Ghinassi Massimiliano , Roner Marcella , D'Alpaos Andrea
Published: February 2019

Salt marshes are crucially important ecosystems at the boundary between the land and the sea, that are experiencing significant losses worldwide mainly dictated by the erosion of their margins. Improving our understanding of the mechanisms controlling marsh edge erosion is a key step to address conservation issues and salt‐marsh response to changes in the environmental forcing. Here we have employed a complete, coupled Wind‐Wave Tidal Model (WWTM) to analyse the temporal evolution of the wave field, and in particular of the mean wave‐power density, in the Venice Lagoon over the past four centuries (from 1611 to 2012). We have then related wave‐field changes to the observed erosion patterns determined by comparing recent aerial photographs (1978–2010) and historical bathymetric data. The results of our analyses from the Venice Lagoon show that, while wave‐fields did not significantly change from 1611 to 1901, a rapid increase in wave‐power densities occurred in the last century. This is suggested to depend on the positive feedback between relevant morphological evolutions and changes in the wave field, both influenced by natural forcing and anthropogenic pressures. We also emphasize the existence of a strong positive linear relationship between the volumetric marsh erosion rate and mean wave‐power density. We thus suggest that relating salt‐marsh lateral erosion rates to properly computed mean wave‐power densities provides a valuable tool to address long‐term tidal morphodynamics. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biochar Immobilizes and Degrades 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol in Soils
Authors: Cui Liqiang , Yin Chuntao , Chen Tianming , Quan Guixiang , Ippolito James A. , Liu Benzhi , Yan Jinlong , Hussain Qaiser
Published: February 2019

Soil contamination by chlorophenol compounds, such as 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (2,4,6-TCP), is of great concern because they are environmentally persistent, are difficult to degrade, and can lead to cancer. Thus, means of degrading these compounds in situ are desperately needed. Biochar was investigated as a material to sequester, reduce downward transport, and aid in soil 2,4,6-TCP degradation. In 2 column studies, wheat straw (Triticum aestivum L.)–derived biochar (pyrolyzed at 450 °C) application to soil (up to 5% by wt) improved soil water and soil organic carbon content. Biochar reduced 2,4,6-TCP downward transport, likely attributable to improved soil water mobility and retention, allowing 2,4,6-TCP to be more easily transported and sorbed to organic functional groups on biochar, leading to enhanced degradation. The 2,4,6-TCP was rapidly degraded into a combination of benzene derivatives and low-molecular weight organic compounds in the first 2 mo following biochar application. The present study provides evidence that biochars can be used to improve environmental quality by lessening the downward transport and enhancing the degradation of organochlorine compounds such as 2,4,6-TCP. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1364–1371. © 2019 SETAC
Framework of new landfill GHG policy in developing countries: Case study of Serbia
Authors: Mihajlović Marina A. , Pešić Radmilo V. , Jovanović Mića B.
Published: February 2019

This paper deals with greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions originating from changes in the waste sector in developing and transitional economies. Using a Serbian case study, the effects of different waste disposal techniques on GHG emissions were analyzed in three scenarios: the current one, the worst one, and the best one. According to the Serbian national‐waste management strategy, a large number of dumpsites and unsanitary landfills should be merged into several regional sanitary landfills. Results obtained from the SWM‐GHG Calculator have shown potentially higher emissions from modern regional landfills than from dumpsites. Related environmental policy should therefore be analyzed in detail and applied. Environmental policy options are analyzed using the SWOT technique. The policy option to be implemented depends on country‐specific circumstances, such as the adequate functioning of institutions, the effectiveness of the judicial system, the established legal framework, and the general level of competence in the waste management sector. If all of these conditions are in place, the ‘polluter pays’ option is the superior one. However, if the level of knowledge and capacity in waste sector is low, and if there are no adequate institutions, or if the judicial system is inefficient, the first option appears to be the right one. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aquaporin‐4‐independent volume dynamics of astroglial endfeet during cortical spreading depression
Authors: Rosic Alexander Brana , Dukefoss Didrik B. , Åbjørsbråten Knut Sindre , Tang Wannan , Jensen Vidar , Ottersen Ole Petter , Enger Rune , Nagelhus Erlend A.
Published: February 2019

Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is a slowly propagating wave of depolarization of gray matter. This phenomenon is believed to underlie the migraine aura and similar waves of depolarization may exacerbate injury in a number of neurological disease states. CSD is characterized by massive ion dyshomeostasis, cell swelling, and multiphasic blood flow changes. Recently, it was shown that CSD is associated with a closure of the paravascular space (PVS), a proposed exit route for brain interstitial fluid and solutes, including excitatory and inflammatory substances that increase in the wake of CSD. The PVS closure was hypothesized to rely on swelling of astrocytic endfeet due to their high expression of aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) water channels. We investigated whether CSD is associated with swelling of endfeet around penetrating arterioles in the cortex of living mice. Endfoot cross‐sectional area was assessed by two‐photon microscopy of mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein in astrocytes and related to the degree of arteriolar constriction. In anesthetized mice CSD triggered pronounced endfoot swelling that was short‐lasting and coincided with the initial arteriolar constriction. Mice lacking AQP4 displayed volume changes of similar magnitude. CSD‐induced endfoot swelling and arteriolar constriction also occurred in awake mice, albeit with faster kinetics than in anesthetized mice. We conclude that swelling of astrocytic endfeet is a robust event in CSD. The early onset and magnitude of the endfoot swelling is such that it may significantly delay perivascular drainage of interstitial solutes in neurological conditions where CSD plays a pathophysiological role.
The Antiresection Activity of the X Protein Encoded by Hepatitis Virus B
Authors: Ren Laifeng , Zeng Ming , Tang Zizhi , Li Mingyuan , Wang Xiaojun , Xu Yang , Weng Yuding , Wang Xiaobo , Wang Huan , Guo Liandi , Zuo Bing , Wang Xin , Wang Si , Lou Jiangyan , Tang Yaxiong , Mu Dezhi , Zheng Ning , Wu Xianhui , Han Junhong , Carr Antony M. , Jeggo Penelope , Liu Cong
Published: February 2019

Chronic infection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is associated with an increased incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBV encodes an oncoprotein, hepatitis B x protein (HBx), that is crucial for viral replication and interferes with multiple cellular activities including gene expression, histone modifications, and genomic stability. To date, it remains unclear how disruption of these activities contributes to hepatocarcinogenesis. Here, we report that HBV exhibits antiresection activity by disrupting DNA end resection, thus impairing the initial steps of homologous recombination (HR). This antiresection activity occurs in primary human hepatocytes undergoing a natural viral infection–replication cycle as well as in cells with integrated HBV genomes. Among the seven HBV‐encoded proteins, we identified HBx as the sole viral factor that inhibits resection. By disrupting an evolutionarily conserved Cullin4A–damage‐specific DNA binding protein 1–RING type of E3 ligase, CRL4WDR70, through its H‐box, we show that HBx inhibits H2B monoubiquitylation at lysine 120 at double‐strand breaks, thus reducing the efficiency of long‐range resection. We further show that directly impairing H2B monoubiquitylation elicited tumorigenesis upon engraftment of deficient cells in athymic mice, confirming that the impairment of CRL4WDR70 function by HBx is sufficient to promote carcinogenesis. Finally, we demonstrate that lack of H2B monoubiquitylation is manifest in human HBV‐associated HCC when compared with HBV‐free HCC, implying corresponding defects of epigenetic regulation and end resection. Conclusion: The antiresection activity of HBx induces an HR defect and genomic instability and contributes to tumorigenesis of host hepatocytes.
Interaction of Metamitron and Fenhexamid with Ca2+‐Montmorillonite Clay Surfaces: A Density Functional Theory Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Belzunces Bastien , Hoyau Sophie , Bessac Fabienne
Published: February 2019

Metamitron (Meta), an herbicide, and fenhexamid (Fen), a fungicide, are authorized by the European Union to be used in agriculture. This article reports theoretical calculations about Meta and Fen in interaction with a clay surface: a Ca‐montmorillonite (Mont). Conformational searches have been performed thanks to Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics simulations from which geometries have been extracted. Interaction and adsorption energies have been calculated for isomers of Meta or Fen in interaction with Mont to understand the relative stability of various kinds of complexation. Substantial adsorption energies are comparable for Meta and Fen: around −40 kcal/mol. For Fen‐Mont, the CO monodentate family is surprisingly the lowest in energy. Moreover, the 10 lowest‐energy isomers involve complexation on Fen carbonyl oxygens. The Meta‐Mont lowest‐energy family, N‐N, does not involve π delocalization breaking within Meta. At the same time, the stronger the interaction energy is, the larger the structural modifications within Mont are, particularly concerning the interacting cation distance to the surface. The non‐negligible charge transfer and the magnitude of the adsorption energy speak in favor of the chemisorption of the pesticide on the surface. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.