bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of FoxO3a is associated with glioblastoma progression and predicts poor patient prognosis
Authors: Qian Zhongrun , Ren Li , Wu Dingchang , Yang Xi , Zhou Zhiyi , Nie Quanmin , Jiang Gan , Xue Shuanglin , Weng Weiji , Qiu Yongming , Lin Yingying
Published: March 2017

Forkhead transcription factor FoxO3a has been reported to have ambiguous functions and distinct mechanisms in various solid tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM). Although a preliminary analysis of a small sample of patients indicated that FoxO3a aberrations in glioma might be related to aggressive clinical behavior, the clinical significance of FoxO3a in glioblastoma remains unclear. We investigated the expression of FoxO3a in a cohort of 91 glioblastoma specimens and analyzed the correlations of protein expression with patient prognosis. Furthermore, the functional impact of FoxO3a on GBM progression and the underlying mechanisms of FoxO3a regulation were explored in a series of in vitro and in vivo assays. FoxO3a expression was elevated in glioblastoma tissues, and high nuclear FoxO3a expression in human GBM tissues was associated with poor prognosis. Moreover, knockdown of FoxO3a significantly reduced the colony formation and invasion ability of GBM cells, whereas overexpression of FoxO3a promoted the colony formation and invasion ability. The results of in vivo GBM models further confirmed that FoxO3a knockdown inhibited GBM progression. More, the pro‐oncogenic effects of FoxO3a in GBM were mediated by the activation of c‐Myc, microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta (LC3B) and Beclin1 in a mixed‐lineage leukemia 2 (MLL2)‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that high FoxO3a expression is associated with glioblastoma progression and that FoxO3a independently indicates poor prognosis in patients. FoxO3a might be a novel prognostic biomarker or a potential therapeutic target in glioblastoma.
Comparison of gefitinib, erlotinib and afatinib in non‐small cell lung cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Zuyao , Hackshaw Allan , Feng Qi , Fu Xiaohong , Zhang Yuelun , Mao Chen , Tang Jinling
Published: March 2017

Gefitinib, erlotinib and afatinib are three widely used epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs) for treating advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with proven efficacy. We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis to synthesize existing studies with direct comparisons of EGFR TKIs in NSCLC in terms of both efficacy and safety. Eight randomized trials and 82 cohort studies with a total of 17,621 patients were included for analysis. Gefitinib and erlotinib demonstrated comparable effects on progression‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.95 to 1.04), overall survival (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.06), overall response rate (risk ratio [RR], 1.05; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.11), and disease control rate (RR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.01), which did not vary considerably with EGFR mutation status, ethnicity, line of treatment, and baseline brain metastasis status. Gefitinib was associated with more grade 3/4 liver dysfunction, but tended to cause lower rates of dose reduction, treatment discontinuation, total grade 3/4 adverse events (RR, 0.78; 95% CI 0.65 to 0.94), and a number of specific adverse events such as rash and diarrhea. No solid evidence was found that afatinib had greater efficacy than gefitinib or erlotinib in first‐line treatment of EGFR‐mutant NSCLC. However, afatinib was more effective than erlotinib as second‐line treatment of patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma. The grade 3/4 adverse events rate of afatinib was comparable to that of erlotinib but higher than that of gefitinib.
Performance Evaluation of Constant Versus Variable Rate Irrigation
Authors: Yari Aghil , Madramootoo Chandra A. , Woods Shelley A. , Adamchuk Viacheslav I.
Published: March 2017

Variable rate irrigation (VRI) can increase water use efficiency and productivity by applying water based on site‐specific needs. In this study, the performance of a five‐span centre‐pivot irrigation system (CPIS) retrofitted with a commercial variable‐rate irrigation package was evaluated at constant and variable application depths at the Alberta Irrigation Technology Centre (AITC) in southern Alberta, Canada. Two sets of experiments were designed to investigate the uniformity of application of the system during the 2013 and 2014 growing seasons. The first set of catch‐can trials were carried out with three irrigation rates in the direction of pivot travel. Three different wind regimes were observed during the catch‐can trials. Catch‐cans were arranged in grid configurations within the experimental plots located under one irrigation zone in span 4. The Christiansen coefficient of uniformity (CU) ranged from 90.4 to 94.4%. Wind speeds of 3.3 and 6.5 m s‐1 negatively and significantly impacted the CU values. The second set of catch‐can trials were performed with used and new sprinklers in a transect along the pivot lateral during the 2014 growing season. The Heermann and Hein coefficient of uniformity (CUHH) ranged from 89.0 to 93.5% and from 81.7 to 94.4% with constant and variable application depths, respectively. The greatest (94.4%) and least (81.7%) CUHH values were observed where water applications were 100 and 40% of the set point, respectively. Overall, the uniformity of application of CPIS retrofitted with the commercial VRI package both along the system's lateral and in the travel direction were above 90% for the majority of the trials under the different wind speeds and water application depths. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Writings on the Wall: Nurturing Critical Literacy Through a Community‐Based Design Project
Authors: Sanders‐Bustle Lynn , Lalik Rosary
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this article is to explore the potential of artistic design to promote critical literacy among adult learners. Conducted by a university literacy educator and a university art educator, this qualitative study examined adults’ divergent perspectives in the design of a mosaic at a center for the homeless. Participants included a university art educator, undergraduates, and outreach center clients. Data included transcribed interviews, written reflections, and field notes. Data were coded and themes identified and reexamined to accurately describe the project's potential for promoting critical literacy. Findings demonstrate how design, a contested literacy space, disrupted social habits, challenged stereotypes, negotiated texts, and transformed perceptions. Yet, time, institutional constraints, missed opportunities for critical dialogue, and other coercive elements limited the project's transformative potential. This suggests that such projects can be an important step toward adults’ critical literacy but are insufficient for garnering long‐term consequences.
Developing Enhanced Morphological Awareness in Adolescent Learners
Authors: Hendrix Rebecca A. , Griffin Robert A.
Published: March 2017

Morphological awareness—knowledge of roots and affixes within language and their interactions with one another to create multitudes of words—is arguably a skill requiring extended study beyond the elementary grades. With the rigors of contemporary curriculum that gradually guide students into college and career readiness—and, essentially, into literate citizenship—enhanced morphological awareness derived from specific study within a secondary curriculum is imperative for adolescents and, by extension, adult learners. This article outlines various facets of enhanced morphological awareness among adolescent learners, arguing its place as a necessary skill set to be included within a developmentally appropriate secondary curriculum. Theoretical bases for such skill development can be found in the aspects of both schema theory and psycholinguistic theory, and its development has also been justified in other related literature. These foundations manifest themselves in relevant classroom strategies that can enhance adolescents’ literacy.
Sanguinarine exhibits antitumor activity via up‐regulation of Fas‐associated factor 1 in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wei Guangxia , Xu Yahuan , Peng Tao , Yan Jie , Wang Zhengjun , Sun Zhanwen
Published: March 2017

Lung cancer is the most common type of malignancy and one of the leading causes of cancer‐related deaths in the world. Non‐small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC) account for 85% cases of lung cancer. Sanguinarine (SNG) is a benzophenanthridine alkaloid isolated from plants of the Papaveraceae family that possess diverse biological activities. SNG exhibits antitumor effects in several cancer cells. However, the effects of SAN on NSCLC proliferation, invasion, and migration and the mechanisms remain to be clarified. We showed that SNG concentration‐ and time‐dependently decreased the cell proliferation, viability, and induced a marked increase in cell death in A549 cells. SNG inhibited invasion and migration and induced S phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. SNG resulted in a significant increase of E‐cadherin expression and a marked decrease of the expression of N‐cadherin, Vimentin, Smad2/3, and Snail and the phosphorylation of Smad2. SNG increased Fas‐associated factor 1 (FAF1) expression and upregulation of FAF1 inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in NSCLC cells. Knockdown of FAF1 suppressed SNG‐induced inhibition of cell proliferation, invasion, and migration and induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in NSCLC cells. SNG also inhibited implanted tumor growth and increased FAF1 expression in tumors in vivo. Our findings highlight FAF1 as a novel therapeutic target and provide a new insight in the potential use of SNG for the inhibition of NSCLC.
Identifying Dynamics of Counseling Leadership: A Content Analysis Study
Authors: McKibben W. Bradley , Umstead Lindsey K. , Borders L. DiAnne
Published: March 2017

The authors synthesized counseling leadership literature to identify themes of counseling leadership. Using an inductive approach to content analysis, the authors analyzed 11 empirical articles, 9 conceptual articles, and 13 leadership profiles. Results yielded 24 emergent leadership themes that were sorted into 3 groups. Findings pave the way for more comprehensive research on counseling leadership and allow for increased intentionality in teaching, training, and practicing counseling leadership.
Hydrodeoxygenation of glycerol with in situH2 formation over Pt catalysts supported on Fe modified Al2O3: effect of Fe loading
Authors: Yfanti Vasileia‐Loukia , Vasiliadou Efterpi S , Sklari Styliani , Lemonidou Angeliki A
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Glycerol hydrodeoxygenation to 1,2‐propanediol is a reaction of commercial and environmental significance. However, the need for hydrogen supply is a main drawback of the process. This study aims at the development of effective catalysts for glycerol hydrodeoxygenation with in situ H2 formed. Pt/Al2O3 and Pt/Fe2O3‐Al2O3 catalysts with different Fe/Pt ratios were synthesized and evaluated. N2 physisorption, XRD, TPR‐H2, TGA and DRIFTS‐CO characterization techniques were used. Main focus was given on catalyst reusability, while a parametric study was also performed.

RESULTS

Fe addition promotes catalysts activity. Characterization showed that there is an electron interaction between Pt and Fe which is responsible for this enhancement. However, Fe/Pt ratio and reduction temperature affect catalyst performance. The increase of Fe loading leads to lower H2 formation rates but also to more stable catalyst performance. The most promising results were achieved over the Fe richer catalyst which exhibited 51.5% 1,2‐propanediol selectivity, 93.8% glycerol conversion, under 3.5 MPa N2, at 250 °C, 1 h and pre‐reduction at 200 °C.

CONCLUSION

The presence of Fe in Pt/Al2O3 catalysts was proved decisive for the combined cycle of glycerol hydrodeoxygenation–aqueous phase reforming. The high activity and the stable performance in aqueous medium may render these materials as suitable catalysts for various liquid phase hydrodeoxygenation reactions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Reaction of β‐Bromo‐β,γ‐unsaturated Pyrroline Nitroxide Aldehydes and Nitriles with AromaticN,S‐Binucleophiles
Authors: Bognár Balázs , Varga Boglárka , Kálai Tamás , Csokona Viola , Gulyás Fekete Gergely , Sár Cecília , Hideg Kálmán
Published: March 2017

Reactions of β‐bromo‐β,γ‐unsaturated pyrroline nitroxide aldehyde (1) or nitrile (4) or their diamagnetic forms (5, 6) with 2‐aminothiophenol or 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole were evaluated. The reaction could be reproduced more easily with the application ofO‐acetyl derivatives of nitroxides to generate 2‐substituted‐benzothiazole, pyrrolo[3,4‐b]benzo[1,5]tiazepine scaffolds with 2‐aminothiophenol and benzimidazo[2,1‐b]pyrrolo[3,4‐e]‐[1,3]thiazine scaffold with 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole.
The determination and application of 87Sr/86Sr ratio in verifying geographical origin of wheat
Authors: Liu H. , Wei Y. , Lu H. , Wei S. , Jiang T. , Zhang Y. , Ban J. , Guo B.
Published: March 2017

As 87Sr/86Sr ratio plays a significant role in authenticating the geographical origin of foodstuff, it is important to identify where the 87Sr/86Sr signature in food comes from, and the methods of 87Sr/86Sr ratio analysis in food and environmental samples. Wheat with three genotypes, soil and groundwater samples were collected from three regions of China during harvest time of 2014. The 87Sr/86Sr ratios in the samples were determined by thermal ionization mass spectrometer in order to investigate the possible source of 87Sr/86Sr in wheat, and the concentrations of Rb and Sr in wheat and soils were also detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and combined with 87Sr/86Sr ratio in order to trace the geographical origin of wheat. The 87Sr/86Sr ratio, the contents Rb and Sr, and Rb/Sr ratio of wheat and soil samples showed significant differences among three regions. The 87Sr/86Sr ratios and the concentrations of Rb and Sr in soils were higher than those in corresponding wheat. The 87Sr/86Sr ratio in wheat was identical to that corresponding soil NH4NO3 extracts (labile fraction of soil) and groundwater. Wheat uptake more Rb than Sr. 3D distribution of 87Sr/86Sr, Rb and Sr could identify wheat samples from different regions clearly. The 87Sr/86Sr ratio of wheat reflects the 87Sr/86Sr ratio of the associated environment including soil and groundwater. It is expected that the use the parameters of 87Sr/86Sr ratio, the contents of Rb and Sr will allow to trace geographical origin of wheat. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of topography and the north Indian monsoon on mean monthly climate interpolation within the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan
Authors: Stewart Stephen B. , Choden Kunzang , Fedrigo Melissa , Roxburgh Stephen H. , Keenan Rodney J. , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: March 2017

Spatial climate datasets currently available for Bhutan are limited by weather station data availability, spatial resolution or interpolation methodology. This article presents new datasets for monthly maximum temperature, minimum temperature, precipitation and vapour pressure climate normals interpolated for the 1986–2015 reference period using trivariate smoothing splines. The inclusion of standardized day time Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land surface temperature (LST) values as partial spline dependencies reduced cross validated root mean square error (RMSE) for maximum temperature by up to 16.0% and was most effective between March and September. Using both a topographic index of relative elevation and standardized night time MODIS LST values as partial spline dependencies reduced monthly mean minimum temperature RMSE by up to 23.4%. Neither variable was effective for minimum temperature interpolation between June and September. High humidity, extensive cloud cover and heavy precipitation occur during these months, which are likely to suppress the formation of temperature inversions that typically form under clear, calm conditions. These new temperature and precipitation surfaces show distinct differences from the WorldClim and CRU CL 2.0 datasets, which do not use weather stations within Bhutan for calibration. New precipitation surfaces better describe the heavy rainfall experienced in the southern foothills while retaining the effect of orography throughout the central valleys and ranges. The development of vapour pressure surfaces also allow for the calculation of ecologically important variables such as vapour pressure deficit, and may also be useful for solar radiation modelling in the region. The different datasets presented in this article will facilitate ecological and agricultural research in Bhutan and provide high quality surfaces needed for future climate change scenarios.
Rapid 3D chemical‐specific imaging of minerals using stimulated Raman scattering microscopy
Authors: Houle Marie‐Andrée , Burruss Robert C. , Ridsdale Andrew , Moffatt Douglas J. , Légaré François , Stolow Albert
Published: March 2017

Raman microscopy, which offers chemical‐specific imaging, has important applications in geological sciences. Conventional Raman imaging, however, is challenged by long acquisition times and can be overwhelmed by sample fluorescence. Here, we present the first applications of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy, a nonlinear optical Raman technique, to samples of mineralogical interest. Combined with second harmonic generation microscopy, SRS offers a multimodal tool for rapid imaging of mineral samples with chemical specificity, structural sensitivity, and excellent three‐dimensional resolution. Our spectral focusing implementation allows for very rapid scanning of Raman spectral lineshapes, with an adjustable spectral resolution (set here to 25 cm−1) and an overall tuning range of 400–4500 cm−1. In mineralogical applications, this wide‐tuning range offers hyperspectral imaging of both trapped organics, via the CH region (~2900 cm−1), and the lower frequency (<1000 cm−1) ‘fingerprint’ modes important for mineral identification. The simultaneously acquired second harmonic generation image reveals details of the local crystallinity of non‐centrosymmetric minerals such as quartz. As opposed to single‐spectral‐point imaging, we emphasize the importance of tuning over the Raman lineshape while imaging, to unambiguously distinguish the resonant Raman response from nonresonant background signals. Based on the range of samples studied here, we believe that multimodal SRS microscopy will become a valuable imaging tool in the earth sciences, particularly in mineralogy, petroleum, and mineral resources research. ©2017 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada Journal of Raman Spectroscopy ©2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proximate, amino acid and lipid compositions in Sinonovacula constricta (Lamarck) reared at different salinities
Authors: Ran Zhaoshou , Li Shuang , Zhang Runtao , Xu Jilin , Liao Kai , Yu Xuejun , Zhong Yingying , Ye Mengwei , Yu Shanshan , Ran Yun , Huang Wei , Yan Xiaojun
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Sinonovacula constricta is an economically and nutritionally important bivalve native to the estuaries and mudflats of China, Japan and Korea. In the present study, S. constricta, cultured either under experimental conditions or collected directly from natural coastal areas with different seawater salinities, was investigated for changes in proximates, amino acids and lipids.

RESULTS

When culture salinity was increased, levels of moisture, carbohydrate, crude protein and crude lipid were significantly decreased, whereas the level of ash was significantly increased. The level of Ala was increased by 1.5‐ to 2‐fold, whereas the contents of most lipids were significantly decreased, and the proportion of phosphatidylethanolamine was significantly increased. Notably, a high proportion of ceramide aminoethylphosphonates was detected in S. constricta reared at all salinities. The energy content appears to be higher in S. constricta reared at higher salinity. In experimental S. constricta, when the salinity was enhanced, the changes of compositions were very close to those reared at constant high salinity.

CONCLUSION

Sinonovacula constricta reared at higher salinities possesses a superior quality. A short period of exposure to a higher salinity for farmed S. constricta reared at a lower salinity before harvest would be useful with respect to improving its nutritive value. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Applications of natural zeolites on agriculture and food production
Authors: Eroglu Nazife , Emekci Mevlut , Athanassiou Christos G
Published: March 2017

Zeolites are crystalline hydrated aluminosilicates with remarkable physical and chemical properties, which include losing and receiving water in a reverse way, adsorbing molecules that act as molecular sieves, and replacing their constituent cations without structural change. The commercial production of natural zeolites has accelerated during the last 50 years. The Structure Commission of the International Zeolite Association recorded more than 200 zeolites, which currently include more than 40 naturally occurring zeolites. Recent findings have supported their role in stored‐pest management as inert dust applications, pesticide and fertilizer carriers, soil amendments, animal feed additives, mycotoxin binders and food packaging materials. There are many advantages of inert dust application, including low cost, non‐neurotoxic action, low mammalian toxicity and safety for human consumption. The latest consumer trends and government protocols have shifted toward organic origin materials to replace synthetic chemical products. In the present review, we summarize most of the main uses of zeolites in food and agruculture, along with the with specific paradigms that illustrate their important role. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Quality improvement on half‐fin anchovy (Setipinna taty) fish sauce by Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1 fermentation
Authors: Zheng Bin , Liu Yu , He Xiaoxia , Hu Shiwei , Li Shijie , Chen Meiling , Jiang Wei
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

A method of improving fish sauce quality during fermentation was investigated. Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1, a halophilic protease‐producing bacterium, was isolated from fish sauce with flavor‐enhancing properties and non‐biogenic amine‐producing activity. The performance of Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1 in Setipinna taty fish sauce fermentation was investigated further.

RESULTS

The inoculation of Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1 did not significantly affect pH or NaCl concentration changes (P > 0.05), although it significantly increased total moderately halophilic microbial count, protease activity, total soluble nitrogen content and amino acid nitrogen content, and also promoted the umami taste and meaty aroma (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the inoculation of Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1 significantly decreased total volatile basic nitrogen content and biogenic amines content (P < 0.05), which were regarded as harmful compounds in foods.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrate that Psychrobacter sp. SP‐1 can be used as a potential starter culture for improving fish sauce quality by fermentation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term MRI surveillance after microsurgery for vestibular schwannoma
Authors: Miller Mia E. , Lin Harrison , Mastrodimos Bill , Cueva Roberto A.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To determine the optimal postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) schedule and length of follow‐up for patients undergoing microsurgical excision of vestibular schwannoma (VS).

Study Design

A retrospective review of patients who underwent microsurgical excision of VS at a single tertiary care center between January 1993 and March 2004.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty subjects were analyzed and characteristics gathered, including tumor size, surgical approach, completeness of resection, and length of follow‐up to last MRI. All postoperative MRIs were reviewed. Radiologic progression is defined as a transition to a more advanced MRI grade from a less advanced MRI grade (eg, clean, linear, nodular) and was recorded for each of the subjects' serial MRIs. The MRI categorized findings were also binned into five time periods for summary analyses. Interval‐censored survival analysis was performed to model time to recurrence across the population.

Results

Of the non‐neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) cohort, the average tumor size at the time of resection was 1.98 ± 1.02 cm (range 0.4–5 cm); average length of follow‐up was 9.0 ± 4.6 years (range 1–19); 102 subjects (47.2%) underwent a retrosigmoid resection; and 110 (50.9%) underwent a translabyrinthine resection. Eight of these subjects (4.1%) demonstrated radiologic progression; of those, four underwent additional treatment. Survival analysis showed early (1–2 years postoperative), middle (2–10 years postoperative), and late (> 10 years postoperative) radiologic progression events.

Conclusion

The current recommended MRI surveillance schedule after microsurgery for VS includes MRIs at 1, 5, and 10 years postoperatively. Nonparametric survival analysis suggests that a majority of radiologic progression events occur in the first 10 years postoperatively.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2132–2138, 2017
Sections of the regular simplex – Volume formulas and estimates
Authors: Dirksen Hauke
Published: March 2017

We state a general formula to compute the volume of the intersection of the regular n‐simplex with some k‐dimensional subspace. It is known that for central hyperplanes the one through the centroid containing vertices gives the maximal volume. We show that, for fixed small distances of a hyperplane to the centroid, the hyperplane containing vertices is still volume maximizing. The proof also yields a new and short argument for the result on central sections. With the same technique we give a partial result for the minimal central hyperplane section. Finally, we obtain a bound for k‐dimensional sections.
Vanishing viscosity limit of Navier–Stokes Equations in Gevrey class
Authors: Cheng Feng , Li Wei‐Xi , Xu Chao‐Jiang
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we consider the inviscid limit for the periodic solutions to Navier–Stokes equation in the framework of Gevrey class. It is shown that the lifespan for the solutions to Navier–Stokes equation is independent of viscosity, and that the solutions of the Navier–Stokes equation converge to that of Euler equation in Gevrey class as the viscosity tends to zero. Moreover, the convergence rate in Gevrey class is presented. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global well‐posedness of the 2D Euler‐Boussinesq system with stratification effects
Authors: Li Zhouyu
Published: March 2017

This paper is concerned with the Cauchy problem of the two‐dimensional Euler–Boussinesq system with stratification effects. We obtain the global existence of a unique solution to this system without assumptions of small initial data in Sobolev spaces. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution dynamic oxygen‐17 MR imaging of mouse brain with golden‐ratio–based radial sampling and k‐space–weighted image reconstruction
Authors: Liu Yuchi , Zhang Yifan , Wu Chunying , Zhu Junqing , Wang Charlie , Tomko Nicholas , Linetsky Mikhail D. , Salomon Robert G. , Ramos‐Estebanez Ciro , Wang Yanming , Yu Xin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The current study aimed to develop a three‐dimensional (3D) dynamic oxygen‐17 (17O) MR imaging method with high temporal and spatial resolution to delineate the kinetics of 17O water uptake and washout in the brains of mice with glioblastoma (GBM).

Methods

A 3D imaging method with a stack‐of‐stars golden‐ratio–based radial sampling scheme was employed to acquire 17O signal in vivo. A k‐space–weighted image reconstruction method was used to improve the temporal resolution while preserving spatial resolution. Simulation studies were performed to validate the method. Using this method, the kinetics of 17O water uptake and washout in the brains of mice with GBM were delineated after an intravenous bolus injection of 17O water.

Results

The proposed 17O imaging method achieved an effective temporal resolution of 7.56 s with a nominal voxel size of 5.625 μL in the mouse brain at 9.4 T. Reduced uptake and prolonged washout of 17O water were observed in tumor tissue, suggesting compromised cerebral perfusion.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a promising dynamic 17O imaging approach that can delineate 17O water kinetics in vivo with high temporal and spatial resolution. It can also be used to image cerebral oxygen consumption rate in oxygen‐17 inhalation studies. Magn Reson Med 79:256–263, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Applications of high‐resolution magic angle spinning MRS in biomedical studies I—cell line and animal models
Authors: Kaebisch Eva , Fuss Taylor L. , Vandergrift Lindsey A. , Toews Karin , Habbel Piet , Cheng Leo L.
Published: March 2017

High‐resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) MRS allows for direct measurements of non‐liquid tissue and cell specimens to present valuable insights into the cellular metabolisms of physiological and pathological processes. HRMAS produces high‐resolution spectra comparable to those obtained from solutions of specimen extracts but without complex metabolite extraction processes, and preserves the tissue cellular structure in a form suitable for pathological examinations following spectroscopic analysis. The technique has been applied in a wide variety of biomedical and biochemical studies and become one of the major platforms of metabolomic studies. By quantifying single metabolites, metabolite ratios, or metabolic profiles in their entirety, HRMAS presents promising possibilities for diagnosis and prediction of clinical outcomes for various diseases, as well as deciphering of metabolic changes resulting from drug therapies or xenobiotic interactions. In this review, we evaluate HRMAS MRS results on animal models and cell lines reported in the literature, and present the diverse applications of the method for the understanding of pathological processes and the effectiveness of therapies, development of disease animal models, and new progress in HRMAS methodology.
Block triangular preconditioners for linearization schemes of the Rayleigh–Bénard convection problem
Authors: Ke Guoyi , Aulisa Eugenio , Bornia Giorgio , Howle Victoria
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we compare two block triangular preconditioners for different linearizations of the Rayleigh–Bénard convection problem discretized with finite element methods. The two preconditioners differ in the nested or nonnested use of a certain approximation of the Schur complement associated to the Navier–Stokes block. First, bounds on the generalized eigenvalues are obtained for the preconditioned systems linearized with both Picard and Newton methods. Then, the performance of the proposed preconditioners is studied in terms of computational time. This investigation reveals some inconsistencies in the literature that are hereby discussed. We observe that the nonnested preconditioner works best both for the Picard and for the Newton cases. Therefore, we further investigate its performance by extending its application to a mixed Picard–Newton scheme. Numerical results of two‐ and three‐dimensional cases show that the convergence is robust with respect to the mesh size. We also give a characterization of the performance of the various preconditioned linearization schemes in terms of the Rayleigh number.
Targeted Fluoro Positioning for the Discovery of a Potent and Highly Selective Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Riedl Rainer
Published: March 2017

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Professor Rainer Riedl from the Institute of Chemistry and Biotechnology at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), Switzerland. The cover picture depicts the structure‐based design of a drug‐like small molecule inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13) with a combined dual binding motif. The targeted introduction of a single fluoro atom was of vital importance for the optimization of the inhibitor. For more details, read the full text of the Communication at 10.1002/open.201600158.
Thermal behavior and dehydration kinetic study of SiO2/PEG hybrid gel glasses
Authors: Vecchio Ciprioti Stefano , Catauro Michelina , Bollino Flavia , Tuffi Riccardo
Published: March 2017

Six different silica‐polyethylene glycol (SiO2/PEG) organic‐inorganic hybrid nanocomposites with different amounts of PEG 400 (6, 12, 24, 50, 60 and 70 wt.%) were synthesized by the sol‐gel technique. Their thermal behavior was studied by thermogravimetry (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) under a flowing argon atmosphere in a wide temperature range and their behavior was compared with those of the related materials with 60 and 70 wt.% of PEG, whose results were reported in a previously study. To identify all physical and chemical processes occurring in these promising materials, the gases evolved during TG experiments were analyzed at characteristic constant temperatures by FTIR. These measurements revealed that all the materials undergo a two‐step dehydration (loosing water physically bound at temperature lower than 100°C) with overlapping of both TG and DTA curves, thus suggesting an identical behavior up to 200°C regardless the different content of PEG. A different behavior is observed at higher temperature, where three different exothermic effects were observed in the range 200–450°C accompanied by mass losses ranging from 6 to 37% for the SiO2/PEG hybrid materials. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:606–612, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synergistic enhancement of crystallization and mechanical performance of polypropylene random copolymer by strong shear and β‐nucleating agent
Authors: Qi Yanxin , Zhang Chunbo , Zhao Ying , Wang Dujin , Lei Jun , Li Zhongming
Published: March 2017

Investigation of microstructure and properties is critical for the development and application of polymer materials. Polypropylene random copolymer (PPR) and β‐nucleatedPPRare widely used in water pipe production. The effect of melt shear flow on the crystalline structure and mechanical properties ofPPRcontaining β‐nucleating agent needs in‐depth understanding. In this paper, we demonstrated the preparation ofPPRandPPRcontaining 0.1 wt% calcium pimelate (Ca‐Pim) samples by conventional injection molding (CIM) and oscillation shear injection molding (OSIM). The multilayer structures and morphologies of the samples were characterized bySEM, two‐dimensional X‐ray scattering andDSC. The mechanical properties and the microstructures of samples prepared by these two injection molding methods were compared. Compared with samples prepared byCIM, the stronger shear provided byOSIMinduced the formation of a thicker layer of a shish‐kebab structure and a higher content of γ crystals, and dramatically suppressed the β‐nucleating effect of Ca‐Pim. TheOSIMsamples have more shish‐kebab structures and higher crystallinities thanCIMsamples and therefore the former exhibit better rigidity than the latter. The β crystals in the core layer and the thicker layer of shish‐kebab structure endowOSIM‐PPR/0.1 wt% Ca‐Pim with excellent impact toughness. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Feasibility and Efficacy of Intra-Arterial Administration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in an Animal Model of Double Toxin-Induced Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Na Kim Ha , Yeol Kim Dong , Hee Oh Se , Sook Kim Hyung , Suk Kim Kyung , Hyu Lee Phil
Published: March 2017

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a sporadic neurodegenerative disease of the central and autonomic nervous system. Because no drug treatment consistently benefits MSA patients, neuroprotective strategy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has a lot of concern for the management of MSA. In this study, we investigated the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial administration of MSCs via internal carotid artery (ICA) in an animal model of MSA. The study was composed of feasibility test using a ×10 and ×50 of a standard dose of MSCs (4 × 107 MSCs) and efficacy test using a ×0.2, ×2, and ×20 of the standard dose. An ultrasonic flow meter and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that no cerebral ischemic lesions with patent ICA blood flow was were observed in animals receiving a ×10 of the standard dose of MSCs. However, no MSA animals receiving a ×50 of the standard dose survived. In efficacy test, animals injected with a ×2 of the standard dose increased nigrostriatal neuronal survival relative to a ×0.2 or ×20 of the standard dose. MSA animals receiving MSCs at ×0.2 and ×2 concentrations of the standard dose exhibited a significant reduction in rotation behavior relative to ×20 of the standard dose of MSCs. Cerebral ischemic lesions on MRI were only observed in MSA animals receiving a ×20 of the standard dose. The present study revealed that if their concentration is appropriate, intra-arterial injection of MSCs is safe and exerts a neuroprotective effect on striatal and nigral neurons with a coincidental improvement in motor behavior.
A Simple, Efficient Green Protocol for the Synthesis of β‐Enaminone and Enamino Ester Derivatives by Using Onion Extract as Green Catalyst
Authors: Prabakaran Kaliyan , Sivakumar Matam , Perumal Muthu Seenivasa
Published: March 2017

We have developed an environmental friendly and highly efficient method for onion extract catalyzed enamination of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds and primary amines. This method is applicable to a wide range of aromatic/aliphatic/heterocyclic amines with active methylene compounds, and affords the β‐enaminone and enamino ester derivatives in good to excellent yields (up to 97 %) in an eco‐friendly solvent ethanol at room temperature. The use of onion extract makes the process environmentally benign.
Synthesis, Photophysical Studies on Some Anthracene–based Ionic Liquids and their Application as Biofilm Formation Inhibitor
Authors: Jha Gaurav , Sahu Prabhat Kumar , Panda Sasmita , Singh Durg V. , Patole Shashank , Mohapatra Harapriya , Sarkar Moloy
Published: March 2017

Imidazolium based monocationic and dicationic ionic liquids, with an anthracene moiety covalently attached to the imidazolium ions, via a methyl spacers, have been synthesized and their photophysical and biological studies have been carried out. Photophysical investigations have revealed that the monocationic anthracene based ionic liquid, AnILBr, exhibits a higher fluorescence quantum yield and average fluorescence lifetime compared to its parent fluorophore anthracene. For dication based systems (AnIL2Br2), the photophysical data have demonstrated that the attachment of two imidazolium cations on anthracene ring, leads to even further fluorescent enhancement. The quantum yield, average lifetime, red‐shifts of absorption and emission for AnIL2Br2 are observed to be relatively higher as compared to AnILBr. This observations illustrate that the imidazolium cation influences the electronic energy distribution in the fluorophore, in such a way, that it leads to enhancement of photoluminescence. Since ionic liquids have recently been shown to demonstrate anti‐biofilm activity, the potential of AnILBr, as a biofilm formation inhibiting agent has also been explored in details. The assay has revealed that addition of AnILBr up to 4 hours significantly inhibited the biofilm formed by both the strains, and this can be utilized to enhance the effectiveness of an antibacterial drug, when used along with AnILBr.
Pressurized Hot Water Extraction as a Viable Bioprospecting Tool: Isolation of Coumarin Natural Products from Previously Unexamined Correa (Rutaceae) Species
Authors: Deans Bianca J. , Just Jeremy , Chhetri Jamuna , Burt Liam K. , Smith James N. , Kilah Nathan L. , de Salas Miguel , Gueven Nuri , Bissember Alex C. , Smith Jason A.
Published: March 2017

The potential of a recently developed pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) method employing an unmodified household espresso machine to facilitate rapid bioprospecting was investigated. A survey of some 16 Australian native plant species identified three Correa (Rutaceae) species containing significant quantities of coumarin natural products. As part of this study, seselin, (+)‐epoxysuberosin, alosin, (–)‐meranzin and heraclenin were isolated and, subsequently, used to synthesize the related natural products (+)‐trachypleuranin A and (–)‐yuehgesin B. In addition, seselin, (+)‐epoxysuberosin, alosin, and (–)‐meranzin were found to inhibit NQO1 activity. Interestingly, (–)‐meranzin showed inhibitory activity comparable to the known potent NQO1 inhibitor dicoumarol.
The Key Role of Textural Properties of Aluminosilicates in the Acid‐Catalysed Dehydration of Glucose into 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Moreno‐Recio Mercedes , Jiménez‐Morales Ignacio , Arias Pedro L. , Santamaría‐González José , Maireles‐Torres Pedro
Published: March 2017

Three protonated zeolites (H‐ZSM‐5, H‐Y and H‐Beta) were prepared and tested in the catalytic dehydration of glucose into 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). The catalytic results are compared with those obtained with a mesoporous MCM‐41‐type aluminosilicate, in order to assess the influence of textural and acid properties on the catalytic performance. The dehydration process was carried out in a biphasic water/methyl‐isobutyl ketone (MIBK) system, and the positive effect of NaCl addition (20 wt. %) on both HMF selectivity and yield was observed. Using the H‐Beta zeolite in a NaCl aqueous solution/MIBK, at 195 °C, the best catalytic results were obtained, with a HMF yield of 56%, close to that obtained with 10Al‐MCM‐41 (63%), after only 30 min of reaction time; whereas HMF yields rose only up to 42% using H‐ZSM‐5 and H‐Y. This fact demonstrates the positive effect of mesoporosity to favour the dehydration of glucose to HMF. The reutilisation of these catalysts was also examined.
Dimethylsulfoxide/Water Mixed Solvent Mediated Synthesis of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural from Galactose with Aluminum Salt Catalyst
Authors: Jia Songyan , He Yangdong , Wang Guosheng
Published: March 2017

As a biomass‐derived platform compound, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF) has attracted many researchers’ interest. Effective conversion of fructose, glucose and their polymers into 5‐HMF provides new perspectives for biomass utilization. However, other underused hexoses have received much less attention in the field of 5‐HMF production. In this work, galactose was effectively converted into 5‐HMF under mild conditions. AlCl3•6H2O showed superior catalytic activity for the production of 5‐HMF in a DMSO/H2O mixed solvent system. Adding an appropriate amount of water in DMSO may have improved the solubility of AlCl3•6H2O and suppressed side reactions, significantly increasing 5‐HMF yield and selectivity. The system was also efficient for the conversion of lactose into 5‐HMF. Control experiments with different catalysts and simple model compounds provided mechanistic insights.
π‐Conjugated Indole Dyads with Strong Blue Emission Made Possible by Stille Cross‐Coupling and Double Fischer Indole Cyclisation
Authors: Garrote Cañas Ana M. , Martsinovich Natalia , Sergeeva Natalia N.
Published: March 2017

Small fluorescent π‐conjugated indolyl‐based molecules4–6,23are prepared through direct Fischer synthesis or/and Stille cross‐coupling method in appreciable yields. Our synthetic results have shown the benefits using Stille approach when Fischer double cyclisation method to access the bisindole dyads4–6,23is not efficient. The synthetic routes to these materials have been designed to investigate the substrate requirements for the respective cyclisation and CC‐coupling reactions and to evaluate their wider synthetic applicability. Comparative analysis of the different substituents and the different π‐bridging units e. g. pyridine, thiophene and thiazole on the electronic and photophysical properties of the final compounds4–6,23has been carried out. The structure−property relationship of the final bisindole dyads has been investigatedviaphotophysical characterisation, and computational modelling. The obtained compounds absorb near‐UV and visible (blue) light, with the spectral range dependent on the nature of the π‐bridging units, and are capable of bright blue emission.
Peapod Assemblies of Au and Au/Pt Nanoparticles Encapsulated within Hollow Silica Nanotubes
Authors: Byoun Wongyun , Yoo Hyojong
Published: March 2017

Nanoparticle assemblies within hollow nanoshells represent versatile structures which enable efficient nanosystems with colligative properties of nanoparticles for a variety of applications. In this report, we present a simple and high yielding solution‐based synthetic strategy for peapod‐shaped Au nanoparticle assembly encapsulated within hollow silica nanotubes (pp multi‐Au@SiO2 NTs). One‐dimensional, [multiple Au nanodot] core–[silica] shell nanowires (multi‐Au@SiO2 NWs) are preferentially synthesized based on reverse microemulsion (water‐in‐oil) techniques. By thermal treatment of multi‐Au@SiO2 NWs in aqueous polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) solution, pp multi‐Au@SiO2 NTs can be successfully fabricated. Further growth of Pt on the Au nanoparticles in pp multi‐Au@SiO2 NTs can lead to the generation of [Au] core‐[Pt] shell (Au/Pt) nanoparticle assembly surrounded by silica nanotubes (pp multi‐Au/Pt@SiO2 NTs).
Direct Conversion of Cellulose into Alkyl Glycoside Surfactants
Authors: Puga Alberto V. , Corma Avelino
Published: March 2017

The one‐step production of biodegradable alkyl glycoside (1‐dodecyl mono‐ and oligoglucoside) surfactants from cellulose has been achieved by direct alcoholysis in fatty alcohol media under Brønsted acid catalysis at near‐ambient pressure. The fatty alcohol serves as both solvent and reagent. Addition of small amounts of water prevents dehydration events and thus minimises product and solvent degradation. Furthermore, high initial cellulose loadings and short thermal cycles enable moderate‐to‐high conversions and selectivities (up to ≈ 70 %), and low solvent‐to‐product ratios.
The “Electric Mondrian” as a Luminescent Solar Concentrator Demonstrator Case Study
Authors: van Sark Wilfried , Moraitis Panos , Aalberts Carlo , Drent Max , Grasso Thom , L'Ortije Yves , Visschers Marc , Westra Mattijs , Plas Rob , Planje Wilko
Published: March 2017

Inspired by the works of the Dutch artist Piet Mondrian an Electric Mondrian has been developed built up from luminescent solar concentrator elements. It is based on differently colored square and rectangular elements of standard sizes based on multiples of 15 cm, as this the standard size of the c‐Si cells that are used at the sides of the elements. This paper describes the design requirements and choices that have been made in detail. The design is based on commercially available luminescent concentrator Perspex plates and solar cells. Performance testing showed that at total size of 1 m2 a light‐to‐electric power device efficiency is measured of 0.2%: the Electric Mondrian thus provides ∼2 W in full sun, and two mobile devices can be charged directly or via a built‐in battery. The Electric Mondrian functions as a decorative energy‐harvesting element indoors in the urban environment, and can be marketed as such.