bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferrocene‐tagged ionic liquid stabilized on silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles: Efficient catalyst for the synthesis of 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐pyran derivatives under solvent‐free conditions
Authors: Teimuri‐Mofrad Reza , Gholamhosseini‐Nazari Mahdi , Payami Elmira , Esmati Somayeh
Published: August 2017

An advanced novel magnetic ionic liquid based on imidazolium tagged with ferrocene, a supported ionic liquid, is introduced as a recyclable heterogeneous catalyst. Catalytic activity of the novel nanocatalyst was investigated in one‐pot three‐component reactions of various aldehydes, malononitrile and 2‐naphthol for the facile synthesis of 2‐amino‐3‐cyano‐4H‐pyran derivatives under solvent‐free conditions without additional co‐catalyst or additive in air. For this purpose, we firstly synthesized and investigated 1‐(4‐ferrocenylbutyl)‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate, [FcBuMeIm][OAc], as a novel basic ferrocene‐tagged ionic liquid. This ferrocene‐tagged ionic liquid was then linked to silica‐coated nano‐Fe3O4 to afford a novel heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst, namely [Fe3O4@SiO2@Im‐Fc][OAc]. The synthesized novel catalyst was characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Fourier transform infrared and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies, X‐ray diffraction, and transmission and field emission scanning electron microscopies. Combination of some unique characteristics of ferrocene and the supported ionic liquid developed the catalytic activity in a simple, efficient, green and eco‐friendly protocol. The catalyst could be reused several times without loss of activity.
Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in water in the presence of robust palladium immobilized on modified magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles as a recoverable catalyst
Authors: Dadras Arefeh , Naimi‐Jamal M. Reza , Moghaddam Firouz Matloubi , Ayati Seyed Ebrahim
Published: August 2017

Aryl halides and especially inactive aryl chlorides were coupled to benzenoid aromatic rings in a Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in the absence of organic solvents and toxic phosphine ligands. The reaction was catalysed by a recoverable magnetic nanocatalyst, Pd@Fe3O4, in aqueous media. This method is green, and the catalyst is easily removed from the reaction media using an external magnetic field and can be re‐used at least 10 times without any considerable loss in its activity. The catalyst was characterized using scanning and transmission electron microscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, CHN analysis, X‐ray diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometry.
Synthesis, characterization and electrocatalytic performance of a dinuclear triazenidosilver(I) complex for hydrogen production
Authors: Xue Dan , Luo Su‐Ping , Zhan Shu‐Zhong
Published: August 2017

Our group has developed a series of molecular electrocatalysts for hydrogen generation based on triazenido–metal complexes (cobalt, copper, etc.). In this paper, we first present the electrocatalytic performance of a new dinuclear silver complex, [Ag2(L)2], formed by the reaction of the triazenido ligand 1‐[(2‐carboxymethyl)benzene]‐3‐[(2‐methoxy)benzene]triazene (HL) with AgNO3. At room temperature, the silver complex shows photoluminescence at 653 nm. The electrocatalytic systems based on this silver complex can afford 106.57 and 1536.36 moles of hydrogen per mole of catalyst per hour from acetic acid at an overpotential (OP) of 991.6 mV and from a neutral aqueous buffer (pH = 7.0) at an OP of 837.6 mV, respectively. Electrochemical investigations show that both silver ion and triazenido ligand play a role in determining the catalytic activities of the electrocatalytic system.
Preparation and optimization of calcium pectate beads for cell encapsulation
Authors: Zhao Shan , Zhang Ying , Liu Yang , Yang Fan , Xiu Zhilong , Ma Xiaojun , Sun Guangwei
Published: August 2017

A variety of natural polymers are considered suitable for cell entrapment. Pectin, a natural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of all higher terrestrial plants, presents great potential for cell encapsulation because of its ability to form gels. In this study, we investigated the influences of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the formation and properties of calcium pectate (CP). Beads of CP prepared with 30–35% methyl esterification presented improved gel properties. The molecular weight (Mw), calcium content, and gel time did not significantly affect the gel properties. The gelling properties, sphericity factor (SF), and swelling ratio were significantly influenced by the degree of methyl esterification (DE) and pectin concentration. The DE (<40%), Mw, and calcium concentration had negative effects on the SFs of CP beads. Moreover, increases in the DE (<40%) and pectin concentration increased the swelling ratio. The C3A cells encapsulated in optimized CP beads maintained good viability and proliferation for up to 2 weeks. In conclusion, CP beads are a potential encapsulation material for cell immobilization and application in related fields. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45685.
Review: Metabolic Control of Immune System Activation in Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Perl Andras
Published: August 2017

Metabolic pathways mediate lineage specification within the immune system through the regulation of glucose utilization, a process that generates energy in the form of ATP and synthesis of amino acids, nucleotides, and lipids to enable cell growth, proliferation, and survival. CD4+ T cells, a proinflammatory cell subset, preferentially produce ATP through glycolysis, whereas cells with an antiinflammatory lineage, such as memory and regulatory T cells, favor mitochondrial ATP generation. In conditions of metabolic stress or a shortage of nutrients, cells rely on autophagy to secure amino acids and other substrates, while survival depends on the sparing of mitochondria and maintenance of a reducing environment. The pentose phosphate pathway acts as a key gatekeeper of inflammation by supplying ribose‐5‐phosphate for cell proliferation and NADPH for antioxidant defenses. Increased lysosomal catabolism, accumulation of branched amino acids, glutamine, kynurenine, and histidine, and depletion of glutathione and cysteine activate the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), an arbiter of lineage development within the innate and adaptive immune systems. Mapping the impact of susceptibility genes to metabolic pathways allows for better understanding and therapeutic targeting of disease‐specific expansion of proinflammatory cells. Therapeutic approaches aimed at glutathione depletion and mTOR pathway activation appear to be safe and effective for treating lupus, while an opposing intervention may be of benefit in rheumatoid arthritis. Environmental sources of origin for metabolites within immune cells may include microbiota and plants. Thus, a better understanding of the pathways of immunometabolism could provide new insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of the rheumatic diseases.
Two Series of Homodinuclear Lanthanide Complexes: Greatly Enhancing Energy Barriers through Tuning Terminal Solvent Ligands in Dy2 Single‐Molecule Magnets
Authors: Qin Yaru , Zhang Haifeng , Sun Hao , Pan Yangdan , Ge Yu , Li Yahong , Zhang Yi‐Quan
Published: August 2017

The utilization of 2‐ethoxy‐6‐{[(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzyl)imino]methyl}phenol (H2L) as a chelating ligand, in combination with the employment of alcohols (EtOH and MeOH) as auxiliary ligands, in 4 f‐metal chemistry afforded two series of dinuclear lanthanide complexes of compositions [Ln2L2(NO3)2(EtOH)2] (Ln=Sm (1), Eu (2), Gd (3), Tb (4), Dy (5), Ho (6), Er (7)) and [Ln2L2(NO3)2(MeOH)2] (Ln=Sm (8), Eu (9), Gd (10), Tb (11), Dy (12), Ho (13), Er (14)). The structures of 1–14 were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. Complexes 1–7 are isomorphous. The two lanthanide(III) ions in 1–7 are doubly bridged by two deprotonated aminophenoxide oxygen atoms of two μ2:η0:η1:η2:η1:η1:η0‐L2− ligands. One nitrogen atom, two oxygen atoms of the NO3− anion, two methoxide oxygen atoms of two ligand sets, and one oxygen atom of the terminally coordinated EtOH molecule complete the distorted dodecahedron geometry of each lanthanide(III) ion. Compounds 8–14 are isomorphous and their structures are similar to those of 1–7. The slight difference between 1–7 and 8–14 stems from purposefully replacing the EtOH ligands in 1–7 with MeOH in 8–14. Direct‐current magnetic susceptibility studies in the 2–300 K range reveal weak antiferromagnetic interactions for 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, and 14, and ferromagnetic interactions at low temperature for 5, 6, 12, and 13. Complexes 5 and 12 exhibit single‐molecule magnet (SMM) behavior with energy barriers of 131.3 K for 5 and 198.8 K for 12. The energy barrier is significantly enhanced by dexterously regulating the terminal ligands. To rationalize the observed difference in the magnetic behavior, complete‐active‐space self‐consistent field (CASSCF) calculations were performed on two Dy2 complexes. Subtle variation in the angle between the magnetic axes and the vector connecting two dysprosium(III) ions results in a weaker influence on the tunneling gap of individual dysprosium(III) ions by the dipolar field in 12. This work proposes an efficient strategy for synthesizing Dy2 SMMs with high energy barriers.
Computer‐Assisted Design of Imidazolate‐Based Ionic Liquids for Improving Sulfur Dioxide Capture, Carbon Dioxide Capture, and Sulfur Dioxide/Carbon Dioxide Selectivity
Authors: Cui Guokai , Zhao Ning , Wang Jianji , Wang Congmin
Published: August 2017

A new strategy involving the computer‐assisted design of substituted imidazolate‐based ionic liquids (ILs) through tuning the absorption enthalpy as well as the basicity of the ILs to improve SO2 capture, CO2 capture, and SO2/CO2 selectivity was explored. The best substituted imidazolate‐based ILs as absorbents for different applications were first predicted. During absorption, high SO2 capacities up to ≈5.3 and 2.4 mol
 molIL−1 could be achieved by ILs with the methylimidazolate anions under 1.0 and 0.1 bar (1 bar=0.1 MPa), respectively, through tuning multiple N⋅⋅⋅S interactions between SO2 and the N atoms in the imidazolate anion with different substituents. In addition, CO2 capture by the imidazolate‐based ILs could also be easily tuned through changing the substituents of the ILs, and 4‐bromoimidazolate IL showed a high CO2 capacity but a low absorption enthalpy. Furthermore, a high selectivity for SO2/CO2 could be reached by IL with 4,5‐dicyanoimidazolate anion owing to its high SO2 capacity but low CO2 capacity. The results put forward in this work are in good agreement with the predictions. Quantum‐chemical calculations and FTIR and NMR spectroscopy analysis methods were used to discuss the SO2 and CO2 absorption mechanisms.
Spacecraft Anti‐Unwinding Attitude Control Using Second‐Order Sliding Mode
Authors: Tiwari Pyare Mohan , Janardhanan S. , un‐Nabi Mashuq
Published: August 2017

This paper presents an anti‐unwinding control method for the attitude stabilization of a rigid spacecraft. Quaternion has double stable equilibrium and this may cause unwinding problems in spacecraft attitude control if both the equilibria are not considered in control design. Here, the initial condition of scalar quaternion is included in sliding surface and an anti‐unwinding control method is formulated in second‐order sliding mode. The presented second‐order sliding mode controller can alleviate chattering and ensure a smooth control for actuator. Further, to eliminate the need of advance information about bounds of uncertainty and external disturbance, adaptive laws are applied to estimate the controller gains. The closed‐loop stability is proved using the Lyapunov stability theory. In conclusion, a simulation is conducted in the presence of inertia uncertainty and external disturbances and it is found that the presented control method is efficient to negate the effect of inertia uncertainty and external disturbances, alleviate chattering, eliminate unwinding, and ensure high accuracy and steady state precision.
Verapamil‐sensitive atrial tachycardia with a slow conduction zone near the noncoronary aortic sinus and His bundle
Authors: Inaba Osamu , Nagata Yasutoshi , Yamauchi Yasuteru , Miyamoto Takamichi , Goya Masahiko , Hirao Kenzo
Published: August 2017

Key Clinical Message

This report presents a verapamil‐sensitive atrial tachycardia, mid‐atrium septum activating the earliest. Concealed entrainment was obtained at noncoronary aortic sinus (NCS), where the local activation was delayed compared to mid‐septum. The tachycardia was successfully ablated at NCS. The entrance of the slow conduction zone was located at NCS.
Uncommon response of cisplatin and etoposide for treatment of advanced medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Panomuppakarn Nathamon , Witoonpanich Patamintita , Waisayarat Jariya , Jiarpinitnun Chuleeporn , Ativitavas Touch , Ngamphaiboon Nuttapong
Published: August 2017

Key Clinical Message

Systemic treatment of Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is currently limited to the use of a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Cytotoxic chemotherapy is not routinely recommended in the earlier lines of treatment due to the lack of efficacy. We describe a patient with locally advanced MTC who had an uncommon response to cisplatin and etoposide.
Reaction Calorimetry for Exothermic Reactions in Plate‐Type Microreactors Using Seebeck Elements
Authors: Reichmann Felix , Millhoff Stefan , Jirmann Yannick , Kockmann Norbert
Published: August 2017

A flexible reactor and measurement setup to safely obtain thermokinetic data for exothermic chemical reactions in plate‐type microreactors is presented. Precise heat flux measurement is realized by means of Seebeck elements and allows for direct as well as space‐ and time‐resolved heat flux determination across the reactor. The microreactor used in this work is manufactured from poly(vinylidene fluoride) foils and consists of 11 SZ‐shaped mixing channel elements. The Seebeck elements are calibrated by the Joule effect, while its performance is demonstrated in heat transfer and neutralization reaction experiments. Furthermore, the local resolution enables an estimation of mixing time scale for rapid reactions. A comparison of obtained results indicates good accordance with literature data and is the base of further investigations using the calorimeter.
Rationale and design of the Drug‐Eluting Stents vs Bare‐Metal Stents in Saphenous Vein Graft Angioplasty (DIVA) Trial
Authors: Brilakis Emmanouil S. , Banerjee Subhash , Edson Robert , Shunk Kendrick , Goldman Steven , Holmes David R. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Rao Sunil V. , Smith Mark W. , Sather Mike , Colling Cindy , Kar Biswajit , Nielsen Lori , Conner Todd , Wagner Todd , Rangan Bavana V. , Ventura Beverly , Lu Ying , Holodniy Mark , Shih Mei‐Chiung
Published: August 2017

VA Cooperative Studies Program #571 (DIVA) was designed to evaluate the efficacy of drug‐eluting stents (DES) for reducing aortocoronary saphenous vein bypass graft (SVG) failure when compared with bare‐metal stents (BMS) in participants undergoing stenting of de novo SVG lesions. Participants undergoing clinically indicated stenting of de novo SVG lesions were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to DES or BMS. Randomization was stratified by presence/absence of diabetes mellitus and the number of target SVG lesions (1 vs ≥2) within each participating site. At sites that did not routinely administer 12‐months of dual antiplatelet therapy after SVG stenting participants without acute coronary syndromes received 1 month of open‐label clopidogrel, followed by 11 months of clopidogrel for those assigned to DES and 11 months of placebo for those assigned to BMS. The primary endpoint was the 12‐month incidence of target‐vessel failure (defined as the composite of cardiac death, target‐vessel myocardial infarction, or target‐vessel revascularization). Secondary endpoints included the incidence of other clinical endpoints and the incremental cost‐effectiveness of DES relative to BMS. Due to lower‐than‐anticipated target‐vessel failure rates, target enrollment was increased from 519 to 762. The study had randomized 599 participants when recruitment ended in December 2015. The DIVA trial will provide clarity on the appropriate stent type for de novo SVG lesions.
Facility‐level variation in diabetes and blood pressure control in patients with diabetes: Findings from the Veterans Affairs national database
Authors: Rehman Hasan , Akeroyd Julia M. , Ramsey David , Ahmed Sarah T. , Merchant Anwar T. , Navaneethan Sankar D. , Petersen Laura A. , Virani Salim S.
Published: August 2017

Background

Intensive glycemic and blood pressure (BP) control in diabetic patients is associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that there is suboptimal glycemic and BP control with significant facility‐level variation in patients with diabetes.

Methods

We identified patients with diabetes receiving care in 130 facilities in the Veterans Affairs Health Care System. We assessed facility‐level rates of glycemic (hemoglobin [Hb]A1c <7%), BP (BP <140/90 mmHg), and combined glycemic and BP control (HbA1c <7% and BP <140/90 mmHg), and their facility‐level variation in using median rate ratios (MRR).

Results

Among 1 103 302 patients with diabetes, 50.2% participants had an HbA1c <7%, 77.5% had a BP <140/90 mmHg, and 39.8% had both, HbA1c <7% and BP <140/90 mmHg. Median facility‐level rates were 50.3% (interquartile range [IQR], 47.9%–52.4%) for glycemic control, 78.4% (IQR, 75.2%–80.0%) for BP control, and 39.9% (IQR, 38.14%–42.34%) for combined glycemic and BP control. Unadjusted MRR for glycemic control was 1.61 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51‐1.70) which decreased to 1.16 (95% CI: 1.14‐1.19) after adjusting for patient and facility‐level variables, indicating a 16% variation in glycemic control between 2 identical patients receiving care at 2 random facilities. Unadjusted MRR for BP control was 1.49 (95% CI: 1.41‐1.56), which decreased to 1.25 (95% CI: 1.21‐1.28), whereas unadjusted MRR for combined glycemic and BP control was 1.59 (95% CI: 1.50‐1.68), which decreased to 1.15 (95% CI: 1.13‐1.17) after adjustment.

Conclusions

Facility‐level rates for BP control and glycemic control remain low with significant facility‐level variation. Much of this is explained by patient and facility‐level variables although 16%, 25%, and 15% variation in glycemic, BP, and combined glycemic and BP control remains unexplained.
The shifting paradigm in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus—A cardiologist's perspective
Authors: Fatima Saeeda , Jameel Ayesha , Ayesha FNU , Menzies Dhananjai J.
Published: August 2017

In patients with diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular (CV) disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. A multitude of contemporary antidiabetic agents presents different CV safety profiles. Metformin forms the cornerstone agent to reduce CV events. Newer agents, such as glucagon‐like peptide‐1 agonists and sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors, have appealing CV benefits. Insulin, dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors, and sulfonylureas have neutral CV effects. Cardiologists should familiarize themselves with these agents to promote comprehensive CV care in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Long‐term weight loss after colorectal cancer diagnosis is associated with lower survival: The Colon Cancer Family Registry
Authors: Kocarnik Jonathan M. , Hua Xinwei , Hardikar Sheetal , Robinson Jamaica , Lindor Noralane M. , Win Aung Ko , Hopper John L. , Figueiredo Jane C. , Potter John D. , Campbell Peter T. , Gallinger Steven , Cotterchio Michelle , Adams Scott V. , Cohen Stacey A. , Phipps Amanda I. , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Body weight is associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk and survival, but to the authors' knowledge, the impact of long‐term postdiagnostic weight change is unclear. Herein, the authors investigated whether weight change over the 5 years after a diagnosis of CRC is associated with survival.

METHODS

CRC cases diagnosed from 1997 to 2008 were identified through 4 population‐based cancer registry sites. Participants enrolled within 2 years of diagnosis and reported their height and weight 2 years prior. Follow‐up questionnaires were administered approximately 5 years after diagnosis. Associations between change in weight (in kg) or body mass index (BMI) with overall and CRC‐specific survival were estimated using Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, American Joint Committee on Cancer stage of disease, baseline BMI, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use, smoking, time between diagnosis and enrollment, and study site.

RESULTS

At the 5‐year postdiagnostic survey, 2049 participants reported higher (53%; median plus 5 kg), unchanged (12%), or lower (35%; median ‐4 kg) weight. Over a median of 5.1 years of subsequent follow‐up (range, 0.3‐9.9 years), 344 participants died (91 of CRC). Long‐term weight loss (per 5 kg) was found to be associated with poorer overall survival (hazard ratio, 1.13; 95% confidence interval, 1.07‐1.21) and CRC‐specific survival (hazard ratio, 1.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.13‐1.39). Significantly lower survival was similarly observed for relative weight loss (>5% vs ≤5% change), BMI reduction (per 1 unit), or BMI category change (overweight to normal vs remaining overweight).

CONCLUSIONS

Weight loss 5 years after a diagnosis of CRC was found to be significantly associated with decreased long‐term survival, suggesting the importance of avoiding weight loss in survivors of CRC. Future research should attempt to further evaluate this association, accounting for whether this weight change was intentional or represents a marker of declining health. Cancer 2017;123:4701‐4708. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Phase 1 dose escalation multicenter trial of pracinostat alone and in combination with azacitidine in patients with advanced hematologic malignancies
Authors: Abaza Yasmin M. , Kadia Tapan M. , Jabbour Elias J. , Konopleva Marina Y. , Borthakur Gautam , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Estrov Zeev , Wierda William G. , Alfonso Ana , Chong Toh Han , Chuah Charles , Koh Liang‐Piu , Goh Boon‐Cher , Chang Julie E. , Durkes Daniel E. , Foudray Maria Cielo , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Dong Xiao Qin , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Pracinostat is a potent histone deacetylase inhibitor with antitumor activity in both solid tumor and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines. Pracinostat is reported to have modest clinical activity in patients with advanced solid tumors. Given the higher preclinical sensitivity of hematologic malignancies to pracinostat, the authors conducted a phase 1 study to assess the safety, maximum tolerated dose, recommended phase 2 dose, efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of pracinostat in patients with advanced hematological malignancies.

METHODS

Pracinostat was administered orally 3 times a week for 3 weeks on a 28‐day cycle. Patients were assigned to 7 dose levels using a 3 + 3 dose escalation design.

RESULTS

A total of 44 patients were enrolled, 25 of whom had AML and 14 of whom had myelodysplastic syndrome. The maximum tolerated dose was 120 mg and the recommended phase 2 dose was 60 mg. Two patients with AML achieved a response: 1 complete remission (CR) and 1 complete cytogenetic response. Despite a dose‐dependent increase in the plasma concentration of pracinostat, a similar increase in histone acetylation was not observed. As an extension, 10 additional patients with myelodysplastic syndrome were enrolled to assess the safety and efficacy of pracinostat in combination with azacitidine. Six patients achieved a CR and 3 achieved a CR without platelet recovery with no added toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study demonstrate that pracinostat is safe, with modest single‐agent activity in patients with hematological malignancies. Cancer 2017;123:4851‐9. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Secure communication scheme analysis via complex networks
Authors: Ding Yong , Xiong Ning , He En , Li Kezan
Published: August 2017

Recently, some existing works have introduced novel way to construct complex networks from embedded time series, which provides new sights into the organizational properties of the time series in phase space. In this paper, we attempt to answer the fundamental question of “how much information regarding the dynamic property of the original time series can be extracted from these networks.” To this end, we propose a new method for reconstructing time series from the networks. We compare the reconstructed time series from these networks and that from the recurrence plot. We find that these networks contain topological information of the embedded time series to a certain degree. In general, they are more powerful than the recurrence plot method in the reconstruction of embedded time series. In addition, we study a new generalized projective synchronization (GPS) of coupled complex dynamical networks with different sizes via feedback control and impulsive control. Based on the stability analysis of impulsive system, a network synchronization criterion is established. These works may find potential application for secure communication via networks.
Photocatalytic Conversion of CO2 to CO by a Copper(II) Quaterpyridine Complex
Authors: Guo Zhenguo , Yu Fei , Yang Ying , Leung Chi‐Fai , Ng Siu‐Mui , Ko Chi‐Chiu , Cometto Claudio , Lau Tai‐Chu , Robert Marc
Published: August 2017

The invention of efficient systems for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 comprising earth‐abundant metal catalysts is a promising approach for the production of solar fuels. One bottleneck is to design highly selective and robust molecular complexes that are able to transform the CO2 gas. The CuII quaterpyridine complex [Cu(qpy)]2+ (1) is found to be a highly efficient and selective catalyst for visible‐light driven CO2 reduction in CH3CN using [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy: bipyridine) as photosensitizer and BIH/TEOA (1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐phenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazole/triethanolamine) as sacrificial reductant. The photocatalytic reaction is greatly enhanced by the presence of H2O (1–4 % v/v), and a turnover number of >12 400 for CO production can be achieved with 97 % selectivity, which is among the highest of molecular 3d CO2 reduction catalysts. Results from Hg poisoning and dynamic light scattering experiments suggest that this photocatalyst is homogenous. To the best of our knowledge, 1 is the first example of molecular Cu‐based catalyst for the photoreduction of CO2.
Use of oral antidiabetic drugs in the treatment of maturity‐onset diabetes of the young: A mini review
Authors: Brunerova Ludmila , Rahelić Dario , Ceriello Antonio , Broz Jan
Published: August 2017

MODY (maturity‐onset diabetes of the young) is a genetically linked group of clinically heterogeneous subtypes of diabetes. Roughly 5% of people with diabetes mellitus diagnosed prior to age 45 have MODY diabetes. Most of them have been erroneously diagnosed as patients with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes and, as a result, have been improperly treated. Genetic identification of MODY diabetes and its subtypes allows proper treatment and enables clinicians to switch many patients to oral antidiabetic agents, mainly sulphonylureas. However, some new classes of oral antidiabetic drugs have also been tested and found to be effective in MODY patients. We have searched for research articles and case reports written in full‐text English or with an English abstract, using the following keywords: MODY and oral antidiabetic* in the databases Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Science Direct. Therapeutic options using currently standardized oral antidiabetic drugs (mainly sulphonylureas), as well as more experimental treatment with other classes of oral antidiabetic drugs in different types of MODY, are discussed, with special focus on the therapy of the most common MODY subtypes, including specific conditions such as pregnancy. This review article summarizes the currently available information about oral antidiabetic treatment of patients with MODY diabetes.
A Novel Method for Extracting Steryl Glucosides From Soy Lecithin
Authors: Xie Meizhen , Zhao Hong
Published: August 2017

In this study, a novel method utilizing enzyme and involving simple solvent extraction steps, is developed to yield an extract with high content of steryl glucosides (SG) and acyl steryl glucosides (ASG) from soy lecithin – the by‐product of vegetable oil refining. Phospholipase A1 is used to convert phospholipids in soy lecithin into more hydrophilic hydrolysates, from which SG and ASG are separated by solvent extractions. A 3 × 3 full factorial design is employed to investigate the effects of two parameters (enzyme dose and reaction time) on three responses (yield of extract, SG/ASG content of extract, and recovery of SG/ASG). There are significant enzyme dose – reaction time interaction effects on all the responses, except for yield of extract. The highest SG (including ASG) content of more than 90% in the extract is achieved at enzyme dose of 0.03 g and reaction time of 16 h, where the yield of extract obtained is 1.43%.

Practical Applications: Conventionally, steryl glucosides and acyl steryl glucosides are isolated from lipid extract and purified by chromatographic methods, which result in a small amount of high purity steryl glucosides and acyl steryl glucosides, and thus is not economic to scale up. The method revealed in this study employed an enzymatic reaction followed by simple solvent extractions, and can be easily scaled up to produce high purity steryl glucosides and acyl steryl glucosides, making them more affordable for researchers. In addition, the method also presents a new application for soy lecithin or lecithin of other plant origins, whose current applications are mostly related to the main component‐phospholipids.

In this study, a novel method utilizing enzyme and involving simple solvent extraction steps is developed to yield an extract with high content of steryl glucosides (SG) and acyl steryl glucosides (ASG) from soy lecithin – the by‐product of vegetable oil refining.
Hydromagnetic non‐Newtonian nanofluid transport phenomena from an isothermal vertical cone with partial slip: Aerospace nanomaterial enrobing simulation
Authors: Annasagaram Subba Rao , CH Amanulla , N Nagendra , M Surya Narayana Reddy , Bég O. Anwar
Published: August 2017

In this article, the combined magneto‐hydrodynamic heat, momentum, and mass (species) transfer in external boundary layer flow of Casson nanofluid from a vertical cone surface with convective conditions under an applied magnetic field is studied theoretically. The effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis are incorporated in the model in the presence of both heat and nanoparticle mass transfer convective conditions. The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are transformed into highly nonlinear, coupled, multidegree, nonsimilar PDEs consisting of the momentum, energy, and concentration equations via appropriate nonsimilarity transformations. These transformed conservation equations are solved subject to appropriate boundary conditions with a second‐order, accurate finite difference method of the implicit type. The influences of the emerging parameters, that is, magnetic parameter (M), Casson fluid parameter (β), Brownian motion parameter (Nb), thermophoresis parameter (Nt), Lewis number (Le), Prandtl number (Pr), velocity slip (Sf) and thermal slip (ST) on velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration distributions is illustrated graphically and interpreted at length. Validation of solutions with a Nakamura tridiagonal method has been included. The study is relevant to enrobing processes for electrically conductive nanomaterials, of potential use in aerospace and other industries.
A novel method used to study growth of ash deposition and in situ measurement of effective thermal conductivity of ash deposit
Authors: Zhimin Zheng , Hui Wang , Yongtie Cai , Xing Wei , Shaohua Wu
Published: August 2017

Ash deposition always brings boilers some trouble due to fouling or slagging. In this paper, a completely controlled system was developed to study the growth of ash deposit. A novel sampling probe was designed to online measure the heat flux through ash deposit. Additionally, the thickness of ash deposit can be obtained by an online figure collecting system. The results of this research showed that as the thickness of ash deposit increased, the heat flux decreased. It was also found that at the initial stage of ash deposition when the thickness of ash deposit is approximately 1 mm, the heat flux through ash deposit had a sharp reduction. An effective method was attempted to situ measure the effective thermal conductivity of the ash deposit in the simulated combustion flue gas. It was found that temperature of the ash deposit layer had no obvious effect on its value. It was concluded that the structure of ash deposit had no obvious change in a short deposition time of 30 min with varied surface temperatures of the probe head between 400 °C and 600 °C.
One‐dimensional transient heat conduction in a bilayer finite slab: A case study in the printing process
Authors: Borah Uditya , Baruah Dipal
Published: August 2017

In this work, a typical case of heat distribution is examined during a paper printing process, based on one‐dimensional transient heat conduction in two‐layer finite slabs with an insulated free surface, and a constant temperature free surface. Analytical solutions were obtained in non‐dimensional form. Various examples of applying these solutions are presented. The accuracy of the solutions, with respect to time, is analyzed considering the eigenvalues of their infinite solutions. It is observed that the larger the number of eigenvalues in consideration, the better the accuracy of the solutions. The model related to a two‐layer slab describes the simplified case in which all heat transfer occurs only by conduction. The solutions obtained are finally compared with the solutions for heat conduction in two semi‐infinite solids. The comparison between the two solutions shows that results are in good agreement only during short time scales. The heat distribution study is expected to be helpful in knowing the effectiveness of various mediums to be used as the reciever during the printing process; however, there is scope for development of more robust models.
A numerical investigation on the heat and fluid flow of various nanofluids on a stretching sheet
Authors: Makarem Mohammad Amin , Bakhtyari Ali , Rahimpour Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2017

Following the necessity of investigating fluid flow and heat transfer in the stretching sheet problem and effect of nanofluids on them, performance of various nanofluids were investigated in the present study. Three base fluids (deionized water, ethylene glycol, and engine oil) in combination with 18 nanoparticles (metals and their oxides) were investigated. While experimental methods are preferable, a mathematical model was developed and solved by applying differential quadrature method due to lack of such experimental data. With the results obtained in the real dimensions, the error caused by the cancellation of the viscosity effect due to the dimensionless variables was omitted. Effects of magnetic field and volume fraction of nanoparticle on the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics were investigated. Highest heat transfer rate as well as small amounts of shear stress was obtained for deionized water–Al and deionized water–Mg nanofluids. Increasing volume fraction of nanoparticle was observed to increase both heat transfer and shear stress rates, while presence of a magnetic field caused an increase in shear stress and decrease in heat transfer rate.
Nonsimilarity boundary layer flow of copper–water nanofluid near stagnation point in a porous medium
Authors: Shen Ming , Dai Yu , Chen Hui
Published: August 2017

The effects of nanoparticle shape are first introduced to study the nonsimilar solutions of stagnation point boundary layer flow of water–copper nanofluid saturated in a porous medium. Two cases of solid matrix of porous medium, including glass balls and aluminum foam, are considered. By using a new empirical correlation for the heat capacitance, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity of the nanofluid saturated in a porous medium, the governing equations of the problem are constructed and reduced by dimensionless variables and nonsimilar transformations, and the homotopy analysis method is adopted to solve the partial differential equations. The results indicate that the heat transfer is significantly enhanced with the increase of permeability of the porous medium on the surface of the stagnation point boundary layer flow. In addition, it is found that the empirical shape of the nanoparticle has an impact on the heat transfer.
Performance of an allele‐level multi‐locus HLA genotype imputation tool in hematopoietic stem cell donors from Quebec
Authors: Ferradji Abdelhakim , D'Souza Yasmin , Saw Chee Loong , Oualkacha Karim , Richard Lucie , Sapir‐Pichhadze Ruth
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Donor‐recipient HLA compatibility is an important determinant of transplant outcomes. Allele‐group to allele‐level imputations help assign HLA genotypes when allele‐level genotypes are not available during donor selection.

Methods

We evaluated the performance of HaploStats, an allele‐level multi‐locus HLA genotype imputation tool from the National Marrow Donor Program, in a cross‐sectional study including hematopoietic stem cell donors (HSCD) from Quebec, Canada. A total of 144 self‐identified Caucasian HSCD genotyped at the allele‐group and allele‐level for HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1, and ‐DQB1 loci were studied. We compared allele‐level genotypes imputed by HaploStats to those obtained by the reference standard, sequenced‐based typing (SBT).

Results

Imputation performance, determined by allele‐level genotype recall (fraction of matching imputed and sequenced genotypes) was 97%, 96%, 95%, 84%, and 81% for HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1, and ‐DQB1 loci, respectively. Our sample deviated from Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium only at the HLA‐DRB1 locus. Residual ambiguity, determined by typing resolution scores (TRS), was greatest for HLA class II loci (average TRS 0.65 and 0.80 for DRB1 and DQB1, respectively). In contrast, average TRS of 0.88, 0.84, and 0.92 was observed for HLA‐A, ‐B, and ‐C, respectively.

Conclusions

HLA allele imputation from ambiguous genotypes demonstrate satisfactory prediction accuracy for HLA class I but modest prediction accuracy for HLA class II loci in self‐identified Caucasian HSCD from Quebec. While consideration of high‐resolution allele and haplotype frequencies in the Quebec population may improve the performance of available allele‐level multi‐locus genotype imputation tools in Quebec, this study suggests that genotyping at the first two field level should be conducted whenever possible.
Occupational exposure to wood dust and risk of nasal and nasopharyngeal cancer: A case‐control study among men in four nordic countries—With an emphasis on nasal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Siew Sie Sie , Martinsen Jan Ivar , Kjaerheim Kristina , Sparén Pär , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Weiderpass Elisabete , Pukkala Eero
Published: August 2017

The current study aims to provide stronger evidence to aid in our understanding of the role of cumulative occupational exposure to (softwood‐dominated) mixed wood dust in aetiology of nasal cancer. We included broad exposure occurred in a range of wood‐processing occupation across varied industries in four Nordic countries. A population‐based case‐control study was conducted on all male cases with nasal adenocarcinoma (393 cases), other types of nasal cancer (2,446) and nasopharyngeal cancer (1,747) diagnosed in Finland, Sweden, Norway and Iceland between 1961 and 2005. For each case, five male controls, who were alive at the time of diagnosis of the case (index date), were randomly selected, matched by birth‐year and country. Cumulative exposures (CE)s to wood dust and formaldehyde before the index date were quantified based on a job‐exposure matrix linked to occupational titles derived from population censuses. Hazard ratios (HRs) for the CE of wood dust were estimated by conditional logistic regression, adjusted for CE to formaldehyde and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. There was an increasing risk of nasal adenocarcinoma related to wood dust exposure. The HR in the highest CE category of wood dust (≥ 28.82 mg/m3‐years) was 16.5 (95% CI 5.05–54.1). Neither nonadenocarcinoma of the nose nor nasopharyngeal cancer could be linked to wood dust exposure. CE to softwood‐dominated mixed wood dusts is strongly linked with elevated risk in nasal adenocarcinoma but not with other types of nasal or nasopharyngeal cancer.
Honeysuckle flowers extract loaded Bombyx mori silk fibroin films for inducing apoptosis of HeLa cells
Authors: Li Chenlin , Yang Mingying , Zhu Liangjun , Zhu Yongqiang
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to prepare silk fibroin (SF) films loaded with honeysuckle flowers extract (HFE) for inducing apoptosis of HeLa cells. We mixed solution of SF and HFE by air‐drying for preparing the honeysuckle flowers extract loaded silk fibroin (SFH) films. The physical properties including morphologies, contact angle, roughness, and Z range were characterized. MTS assay and fluorescence micrographs proved that SFH films inhibited the proliferation rate of HeLa cells due to induction of HFE into SF films. Furthermore, cell apoptosis assay and cell cycle analysis confirmed that the apoptosis of HeLa cells resulted from SFH films. Therefore, SFH films designed in our study might be a promising candidate material for cancer therapy.
Women's Empowerment in Agriculture and Household‐Level Health in Northern Ghana: A Capability Approach
Authors: Zereyesus Yacob Abrehe
Published: August 2017

The effect of women's empowerment on household's health status is examined for households in northern Ghana with a Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes model by using a capability approach. Household's latent health is represented by the number of stunted children, number of wasted children and number of underweight women. Demographic and socioeconomic variables are used as covariates. Results confirmed the existence of underlying latent physical health. Results showed a positive effect of women's empowerment on household's health status, with implications on its intrahousehold effect. Covariates such as father's literacy, the proportion of dependents and health expenditures are significantly associated with the health of a household. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐throughput LC–MS method for the rapid characterization of multiple chemical constituents and metabolites of Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan
Authors: Li Xianna , Sun Hui , Zhang Aihua , Liu Zhidong , Zou Di , Song Yanhua , Liu Liang , Wang Xijun
Published: August 2017

Traditional Chinese medicine is the clinical experience accumulated by Chinese people against diseases. Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan is a famous traditional Chinese medicine formula consisting of Phellodendri amurensis Rupr., Anemarrhenae asphodeloides Bge., Radix Rehmanniae Preparata and Chinemys reevesii. In this study, ultra high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight high‐definition mass spectrometry with the control software of Masslynx (V4.1) was established for comprehensive screening and identification of the chemical constituents and serum metabolites of Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan in vivo and in vitro. Consequently, 70 peaks in the methanol extract from Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan and 38 peaks absorbed into rat blood were characterized. The 70 constituents in vitro included alkaloids, flavonoids, polysaccharide, limonoids, flavonoid, etc. And the 38 constituents consist of 22 absorbed prototypes and 16 metabolites of Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan absorbed in vivo. We fully clarified the chemical constituents of Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan and provided a scientific strategy for the screening and characterization of the chemical constituents and metabolites of traditional Chinese medicine in vitro and in vivo.
Magnetic ionic liquid assisted single‐drop microextraction of ascorbic acid before its voltammetric determination
Authors: Jahromi Zahra , Mostafavi Ali , Shamspur Tayebeh , Mohamadim Maryam
Published: August 2017

For the first time, we coupled a microextraction technique using a magnetic ionic liquid with voltammetric determination. A hydrophobic magnetic ionic liquid that contains the tetrachloromanganate(II) anion, namely, aliquat tetrachloromanganate(II), was synthesized and used for the extraction of ascorbic acid from aqueous solutions followed by voltammetric determination. The extraction procedure was carried out using a single drop microextraction technique in which the ascorbic acid containing magnetic ionic liquid was separated with a magnet and then cast onto the surface of a carbon paste electrode modified with TiO2 nanoparticles for the voltammetric quantification of the extracted ascorbic acid. Electrochemical quantification was carried out in a blank phosphate buffer solution. After optimizing different experimental conditions, a linear concentration range of 1.50–40.0 nM with a detection limit of 0.43 nM was obtained for the determination of ascorbic acid. The presented approach was successfully applied to the determination of ascorbic acid in samples of vitamin C effervescent tablets and orange juice.
Simultaneous determination of ferulic acid and gastrodin of Tianshu Capsule in rat plasma by ultra‐fast liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and its application to a comparative pharmacokinetic study in normal and migraine rats
Authors: Guan Jiao , Zhang Xiurong , Feng Bo , Zhao Donghai , Zhao Tong , Chang Sheng , Wang Liming , Zhu Heyun
Published: August 2017

Tianshu Capsule, consisting of Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort and Gastrodia elata Blume, is a widely used Traditional Chinese Medicine preparation for the treatment of migraine. Ferulic acid and gastrodin are main active constituents in Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort and Gastrodia elata Blume, and have been used as marker components for quality control of Tianshu Capsule. In this study, a selective, sensitive, and reliable ultra‐fast liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for simultaneous determination of ferulic acid and gastrodin in rat plasma using geniposide as internal standard. The plasma samples were extracted by protein precipitation with methanol after acidification and separated on a Shim‐Pack XR‐ODS C18 column (75 × 3.0 mm, 2.2 μm) using gradient elution with a mobile phase consisting of water (containing 0.1% formic acid) and acetonitrile at a flow rate of 0.6 mL/min. Detection was performed on 3200 QTRAP mass spectrometry equipped with turbo ion spray source in negative ionization mode. Validation parameters were within acceptable ranges. The validated method was applied to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of ferulic acid and gastrodin in normal and migraine rats. Our results showed that there were remarkable differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of the analytes between the normal and migraine groups.
The Kelpies, the Falkirk Wheel, and the tourism‐based regeneration of Scottish Canals
Authors: McKean Andrew , Harris John , Lennon John
Published: August 2017

This paper examines the transformation of the Scottish Canals network for the purposes of leisure visitation as an element of tourism. It focuses on 2 iconic developments, The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel, which are considered in relation to their impact on destination awareness and tourism development in a particular locale. The key attraction sites illustrate successful brownfield regeneration, enduring visitation and the role of canals as multifaceted tourism assets in a specific region of Scotland. In addition, the paper provides a context for the decline and resurgence of canals in lowland Scotland.