bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentially expressed haptoglobin as a potential biomarker for type 2 diabetic mellitus in Hispanic population
Authors: Liu Zhongwei , Feng Du , Gu Danshan , Zheng Richard , Esperat Christina , Gao Weimin
Published: February 2017

Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurement is currently a primary tool for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially for the assessment of chronic hyperglycemia. However, many studies reported the limitation of using HbA1c for T2DM diagnosis/prognosis, such as poor sensitivities, difficult standardization, and variable cut points across ethnic groups. Therefore, the aim of this study was to discover novel biomarkers associated with elevated HbA1c levels as complementary T2DM diagnostic tools. Two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry were applied for protein profile analyses of two pooled serum samples collected from Hispanic T2DM subjects (n = 74) with HbA1c ≥7 and HbA1c< 7, respectively. Isoforms of haptoglobin (Hp) α1/α2 chains were significantly altered in pooled serum samples from T2DM subjects with HbA1c ≥7 compared to those with HbA1c< 7. Hp genotypes of 262 Hispanic subjects, including 109 T2DM and 153 nondiabetic controls, were further determined by PCRs and western blotting analysis. Meanwhile, a new droplet digital PCR method for Hp genotyping was also established. The distribution of Hp2 allele was higher in T2DM subjects compared to nondiabetic controls and the HbA1c levels of T2DM subjects carrying at least one Hp2 allele tended to be higher than T2DM subjects with Hp 1‐1. In summary, our results indicate that differentially expressed serum Hp protein isoforms could be associated with HbA1c levels and subjects with Hp2 allele have a higher risk for the occurrence of T2DM in Hispanic population. © 2016 BioFactors, 43(3):424–433, 2017
Animal component‐free Agrobacterium tumefaciens cultivation media for better GMP‐compliance increases biomass yield and pharmaceutical protein expression in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Houdelet Marcel , Galinski Anna , Holland Tanja , Wenzel Kathrin , Schillberg Stefan , Buyel Johannes Felix
Published: February 2017

Transient expression systems allow the rapid production of recombinant proteins in plants. Such systems can be scaled up to several hundred kilograms of biomass, making them suitable for the production of pharmaceutical proteins required at short notice, such as emergency vaccines. However, large‐scale transient expression requires the production of recombinant Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains with the capacity for efficient gene transfer to plant cells. The complex media often used for the cultivation of this species typically include animal‐derived ingredients that can contain human pathogens, thus conflicting with the requirements of good manufacturing practice (GMP). We replaced all the animal‐derived components in yeast extract broth (YEB) cultivation medium with soybean peptone, and then used a design‐of‐experiments approach to optimize the medium composition, increasing the biomass yield while maintaining high levels of transient expression in subsequent infiltration experiments. The resulting plant peptone Agrobacterium medium (PAM) achieved a two‐fold increase in OD600 compared to YEB medium during a 4‐L batch fermentation lasting 18 h. Furthermore, the yields of the monoclonal antibody 2G12 and the fluorescent protein DsRed were maintained when the cells were cultivated in PAM rather than YEB. We have thus demonstrated a simple, efficient and scalable method for medium optimization that reduces process time and costs. The final optimized medium for the cultivation of A. tumefaciens completely lacks animal‐derived components, thus facilitating the GMP‐compliant large‐scale transient expression of recombinant proteins in plants.
Die paradoxe Fruchtbarkeit der Strahlenflosser
Authors: Nellen Walter
Published: February 2017

Über 50 % der knapp 70.000 existierenden Wirbeltierarten sind Knochenfische der Klasse Actinopterygii. Gegenüber anderen Wirbeltieren tragen sie zwei Alleinstellungsmerkmale: einheitlich kleine erste Lebensstadien und eine paradox erscheinende, stark größenabhängige Fruchtbarkeit, die die anderer Wirbeltiere und auch vieler Wirbelloser um 2 bis > 5 Größenordnungen übertrifft. Beides weist auf im Vergleich zu anderen Tiergruppen ungewöhnliche Fortpflanzungseigenschaften hin. Sehr viele Knochenfische jagen, sobald sie auf größere Nahrung als Plankton angewiesen sind, bevorzugt bis ausschließlich kleinere Fische auch der eigenen Art. Wegen ihrer hohen Fruchtbarkeit und der damit verbundenen großen Verfügbarkeit von heranwachsenden Individuen können sich Actinopterygier auf unterschiedlichen, aufsteigenden trophischen Ebenen ernähren, bis hinauf zu unterschiedlich großen Lebensstadien ihrer selbst. Das dient offensichtlich dem Energiegewinn in einem Lebensraum, in dem die meiste Biomasse von kleinen und kurzlebigen Planktonorganismen produziert wird, und deren biologisch gebundene Energie dann als Fischbiomasse gespeichert wird.
Frühlingsbeginn im Auwald: Blausterne, Pelzbienen und Ölkäfer
Authors: Petrischak Hannes
Published: February 2017

Wenn ab März der Frühling mit Licht und Farben, Geräuschen und Gerüchen endlich Einzug hält, erwacht im Auwald vielfältiges Leben. Frühblüher bedecken den Boden und locken ganz unterschiedliche Insekten an. Hier bieten sich mancherorts die besten Gelegenheiten, Einblicke in das Leben der eigentümlichen Ölkäfer zu gewinnen.
Das Entdeckermobil – eine Alternative zu gebuchten Führungen
Authors: Wenzel Volker , Scheersoi Annette
Published: February 2017

Führungen können den Besuch von Schulklassen an außerschulischen Lernorten bereichern. Das „Entdeckermobil” ist eine Möglichkeit, Lehrkräfte mit einem praxistauglichen Konzept und dazu passenden Arbeitsmaterialien zu versorgen, damit sie diese Führungen selbst übernehmen und damit individuell auf die Bedürfnisse ihrer Schülerinnen und Schüler eingehen können.
Analysis of distinct long noncoding RNA transcriptional fingerprints in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Xiang , Lin Yang , Sui Wu , Zou Yanfen , Lv Zhongchuan
Published: February 2017

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies with the worst prognosis. Recent studies have demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, the expression pattern and roles of lncRNAs in the development of PDAC remain unknown. Herein, we globally analyzed the lncRNA expression profile in human PDAC and non‐tumor tissues using four independent public microarray datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The analysis of GEO datasets by repurposing microarray probes confirmed that hundreds of lncRNAs are differentially expressed in PDAC tissues compared with normal tissues. We selected four lncRNAs including LINC00152, CASC9, LINC00226 and F11‐AS1 for validation in PDAC cell lines and normal cells. Loss of function assays were performed to investigate the roles of LINC00152 and CASC9 in PDAC cell proliferation and invasion. Taken together, our findings demonstrate lncRNA expression alterations in PDAC and may provide new potential molecular markers for PDAC patient diagnosis and treatment.
Environmental factors, seven GWAS‐identified susceptibility loci, and risk of gastric cancer and its precursors in a Chinese population
Authors: Cai Meng , Dai Shuyang , Chen Wanqing , Xia Changfa , Lu Lingeng , Dai Shuguang , Qi Jun , Wang Minjie , Wang Meilin , Zhou Lanping , Lei Fuhua , Zuo Tingting , Zeng Hongmei , Zhao Xiaohang
Published: February 2017

Gene–environment interactions may increase gastric cancer (GC) risk. Seven susceptibility loci identified by genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) suggest that genetic factors play a role in gastric carcinogenesis. Meanwhile,Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection, smoking, and alcohol drinking are also important environmental factors for gastric cancer. However, studies to explore the role of gene–environment interactions in gastric carcinogenesis, and particularly the relationship between the seven susceptibility loci and their potential interactions withH. pyloriinfection, smoking, and alcohol drinking in risk of GC, and severe intestinal metaplasia (IM)/dysplasia, have been inconclusive. A total of 1273 subjects in a Chinese population were recruited, and genotyping was carried out using the competitive allele‐specific PCR (KASP) method. Unconditional logistic regression was applied to model the associations between genetic polymorphisms and the disease risk. Effect modifications byH. pyloriinfection, smoking and alcohol drinking were evaluated.PSCArs2294008/rs2976392 showed a significant, multiplicative interaction withH. pyloriinfection in risk of GC. Meanwhile,PRKAA1rs13361707 had an additive interaction withH. pyloriinfection.SLC52A3rs13042395 showed an interaction with alcohol drinking in risk of GC. Moreover, three SNPs,MUC1rs4072037,ZBTB20rs9841504 andPRKAA1rs13361707, were associated with precancerous gastric lesions (severe IM/dysplasia). Our data suggest that genetic predisposition factors identified by GWAS may interact with environmental risk factors, Particularly forH. pyloriinfection and alcohol consumption, to increase the risk of GC.
Characterization of E‐NTPDase (EC 3.6.1.5) activity in hepatic lymphocytes: A different activity profile from peripheral lymphocytes
Authors: Doleski Pedro H. , Adefegha Stephen A. , Cabral Fernanda L. , Leal Daniela B.R.
Published: February 2017

The activity of ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E‐NTPDase; EC 3.6.1.5) was characterized in hepatic lymphocytes (HL) of rats. For this purpose, a specific method for the isolation of lymphocytes from hepatic tissue was developed. Subsequently, E‐NTPDase activity of rat HL was compared with that of rat peripheral lymphocytes. The HL showed high cell count and viability. Also, the characterization test revealed that the optimal E‐NTPDase activities were attained at 37°C and pH 8.0 in the presence of Ca2+. In addition, in the presence of specific E‐NTPDase inhibitors (20mM sodium azide and 0.3mM suramin), there were significant inhibitions in nucleotide hydrolysis. However, there was no significant change in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or adenosine diphosphate (ADP) hydrolysis in the presence of inhibitors of other E‐ATPase (0.1mM Ouabain, 0.5mM orthovanadate, and 1mM, 5mM, and 10mM sodium azide). Furthermore, the kinetic behavior of the enzyme in HL showed apparent Km of 134.90 ± 0.03μM and 214.40 ± 0.06μM as well as Vmax of 345.0 ± 28.32 and 242.0 ± 27.55 ƞmol Pi/min/mg of protein for ATP and ADP, respectively. The Chevillard plot revealed that ATP and ADP were hydrolyzed at the same active site of the enzyme. Our results suggest that the degradation of extracellular nucleotides in HL may have been primarily accomplished by E‐NTPDase. The higher E‐NTPDase activity observed in HL may be attributed to the important physiological functions of ATP and ADP in HL.

Significance of the study

Extracellular purine nucleotides are able to interact with specific receptors and trigger a number of important physiological functions in cells. This interaction is controlled by ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase (E‐NTPDase), enzyme that present their catalytic site at the extracellular space and degrades nucleotides. This purinergic signaling has important functions in peripheral lymphocytes and may represent an important new therapeutic target for the treatment of immunological diseases. However, there is dearth of information on the involvement of E‐NTPDase in liver lymphocytes. The liver is an important organ, which performs both metabolic and toxicological roles in living organism, and hepatic lymphocytes may play crucial action in the regulation of immune responses in the liver tissue. Furthermore, various chronic diseases such as cirrhosis may be treated with novel pharmacotherapy by targeting the modulation of hepatic lymphocytes. Thus, the significance of this study is to evaluate the activity of E‐NTPDase in liver lymphocyte and compare its activity with the peripheral lymphocytes.
Glycoengineering of Esterase Activity through Metabolic Flux‐Based Modulation of Sialic Acid
Authors: Mathew Mohit P. , Tan Elaine , Labonte Jason W. , Shah Shivam , Saeui Christopher T. , Liu Lingshu , Bhattacharya Rahul , Bovonratwet Patawut , Gray Jeffrey J. , Yarema Kevin J.
Published: February 2017

This report describes the metabolic glycoengineering (MGE) of intracellular esterase activity in human colon cancer (LS174T) and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. In silico analysis of carboxylesterases CES1 and CES2 suggested that these enzymes are modified with sialylated N‐glycans, which are proposed to stabilize the active multimeric forms of these enzymes. This premise was supported by treating cells with butanolylated ManNAc to increase sialylation, which in turn increased esterase activity. By contrast, hexosamine analogues not targeted to sialic acid biosynthesis (e.g., butanoylated GlcNAc or GalNAc) had minimal impact. Measurement of mRNA and protein confirmed that esterase activity was controlled through glycosylation and not through transcription or translation. Azide‐modified ManNAc analogues widely used in MGE also enhanced esterase activity and provided a way to enrich targeted glycoengineered proteins (such as CES2), thereby providing unambiguous evidence that the compounds were converted to sialosides and installed into the glycan structures of esterases as intended. Overall, this study provides a pioneering example of the modulation of intracellular enzyme activity through MGE, which expands the value of this technology from its current status as a labeling strategy and modulator of cell surface biological events.
Gender‐related differences on short‐ and long‐term outcomes of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Katz Marcelo , Carlos Bacelar Nunes Filho Antonio , Caixeta Adriano , Antonio Carvalho Luiz , Sarmento‐Leite Rogério , Alves Lemos Neto Pedro , Eduardo Koenig São Thiago Luiz , Dias Dourado Oliveira Adriano , Antonio Marino Marcos , Tadeu Tumelero Rogerio , Antonio Perin Marco , Abizaid Alexandre , Tarasoutchi Flavio , Sândoli de Brito Fábio ,   On behalf of the Brazilian TAVI Registry investigators
Published: February 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to compare gender‐related differences in outcomes of patients undergoing TAVI over a long‐term follow‐up period.

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been considered the standard therapy for patients with inoperable or high‐risk symptomatic aortic stenosis. The influence of gender‐related differences in outcomes of patients undergoing TAVI is currently on debate.

Methods

From January 2008 to January 2015, 819 patients (49% men) underwent TAVI and were included in a multicenter Brazilian registry. Patients were followed‐up and clinical outcomes were evaluated according to the updated Valve Academic Research Consortium‐2 criteria.

Results

Mean follow‐up was 497 ± 478 days. Compared with women, men had a lower rate of major or life‐threatening bleeding (12.0% vs. 20.6%; HR = 0.57 [95CI% 0.40–0.81]; P = 0.001), and major vascular complications (6% vs. 11.7%; HR = 0.50 [95CI% 0.31–0.82]; P = 0.004). At 30 days, all‐cause mortality was lower in men than in women (6.5% vs. 11.5%; P = 0.013), however, cumulative all‐cause mortality was similar between groups (25.9% vs. 29.7%, men and women, respectively, HR = 0.92 [95CI% 0.71–1.19]; P = 0.52) over the entire follow‐up period. By adjusted Cox regression model, renal function, diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remained independently predictors of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

In this large‐scale study evaluating patients undergoing TAVI, 30‐day mortality was higher among women than men driven by significant higher rates of major or life‐threatening bleeding and major vascular complications. However, all‐cause mortality on long‐term follow‐up was similar between groups. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Revascularization after coronary artery bypass grafting; Another episode in a long saga
Authors: Zahr Firas , Cigarroa Joaquin E.
Published: February 2017

Key Points

Despite recurrent angina, revascularization is only performed in a quarter of patients undergoing coronary angiogram after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)

Chronic Kidney disease, significant angina, positive preprocedural stress test are independent predictors of revascularization in patients with recurrent angina after CABG

Further studies are needed to assess the value of stress testing in guiding management decisions in patients presenting with stable angina after CABG
Left atrial appendage occlusion: Fighting the “dark side” of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Meucci Francesco , Di Mario Carlo
Published: February 2017

Key points

In this real world UK retrospective experience LAAO confirms its safety profile with one procedure related death (0.25%), and 3.5% incidence of major adverse events.

There is a significant learning curve effect (acute major events were reduced from 6.5 to 0.5% between first and second half of enrollment)

The two most widely used devices (Watchman and Amplatzer) did not differ in terms of safety and efficacy in immediate success (95%) and late reduction of expected ischemic events, confirming a class effect of LAAO therapy

In a rapidly changing environment, further research is needed to understand whether LAAO should remain confined to a niche group with absolute contraindications to OAT or can be extended to patients at high bleeding risk with both VKA and NOACs.
Synthesis of 1,5‐Pentanediol by Hydrogenolysis of Furfuryl Alcohol over Ni–Y2O3 Composite Catalyst
Authors: Wijaya Husni Wahyu , Kojima Takashi , Hara Takayoshi , Ichikuni Nobuyuki , Shimazu Shogo
Published: February 2017

The addition of Y2O3 into Ni formed a composite catalyst that selectively produced 1,5‐pentanediol rather than 1,2‐pentanediol in the hydrogenolysis of furfuryl alcohol at 2.0 MPa H2 and 423 K. Clearly, 1,5‐pentanediol was produced over the Ni0–Y2O3 boundary. This report highlights the properties of Ni–Y2O3, catalytic performance, and reaction route in the synthesis of 1,5‐pentanediol from furfuryl alcohol.
German Catalysis Society (GeCatS)
Authors: Muhler Martin
Published: February 2017

The German Catalysis Society (GeCatS) is the platform for the entire German catalysis community both in basic and applied research with about 1100 members from industry and academia.
Rhodium(III) Catalyzed Solvent‐Free Tandem Isomerization–Hydrosilylation From Internal Alkenes to Linear Silanes
Authors: Azpeitia Susan , Garralda María A. , Huertos Miguel A.
Published: February 2017

The selective synthesis of linear silanes from internal alkenes or alkene mixtures is reported. Unsaturated 16 electrons hydrido–silyl–RhIII complexes are efficient catalysts for a tandem catalytic alkene isomerization–hydrosilylation reaction at room temperature under solvent‐free conditions. Such a process would be of value to the chemical industry, as mixtures of internal aliphatic olefins are substantially cheaper and more readily available than the pure terminal isomers.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Based Tri‐organyl‐Zn–Alkyl Cations: Synthesis, Structures, and Use in CO2 Functionalization
Authors: Specklin David , Fliedel Christophe , Gourlaouen Christophe , Bruyere Jean‐Charles , Avilés Teresa , Boudon Corinne , Ruhlmann Laurent , Dagorne Samuel
Published: February 2017

Tri‐organyl and tricoordinate N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) Zn–NHC alkyl cations [(nNHC)2Zn‐Me]+ (nNHC=C2‐bonded‐IMes/‐IDipp; 3+ and 4+; IMes=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)imidazolin‐2‐ylidene, IDipp=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazolin‐2‐ylidene) were first synthesized and structurally characterized by ionization of the corresponding neutral precursors [(nNHC)ZnMe2] with [Ph3C][B(C6F5)4] in the presence of one equivalent of free NHC. Whereas cation [(nIMes)2Zn‐Me]+ (3+) is stable, its sterically congested analogue [(nIDipp)2Zn‐Me]+ (4+) readily undergoes an nNHC‐to‐aNHC isomerization in the presence of THF or IDipp to afford the more thermodynamically stable [(aIDipp)(nIDipp)Zn‐Me]+ (aIDipp=C4‐bonded IDipp, 5+), reflecting the adaptable‐to‐sterics coordination chemistry of these cations for improved stability. Cations 3+–5+ are the first Zn cations of the type Zn(C)(C′)(C′′)+ (C, C′, C′′=σ‐donor carbyl ligand). Kinetic studies combined with DFT calculations agree with an nNHC‐to‐aNHC process proceeding through the initial deprotonation of 4+ (at a Zn‐bonded C4‐IDipp moiety) by IDipp. Unlike 3+ and 4+, the rearranged cation 5+ reacts with CO2 through insertion into the Zn–Me bond yielding the corresponding Zn(κ2‐OAc)+ cation 6+. Both cations 5+ and 6+ were successfully used in CO2 hydrosilylation catalysis for silylformate formation.
Monoprotected l‐Amino Acid (l‐MPAA), Accelerated Bromination, Chlorination, and Iodination of C(sp2)−H Bonds by Iridium(III) Catalysis
Authors: Kathiravan Subban , Nicholls Ian A.
Published: February 2017

Halogenated arenes are important structural motifs commonly found in biologically active molecules and used for a variety of transformations in organic synthesis. Herein, we report the mono‐protected l‐amino acid (l‐MPAA) accelerated iridium(III)‐catalyzed halogenation of (hetero)anilides at room temperature. This reaction constitutes the first example of an iridium(III)/l‐MPAA‐catalyzed general halogenation of (hetero)arenes through C(sp2)−H activation. Furthermore, we demonstrate the potential utility of our method through its use in the synthesis of a quinolone derivative.
Improving the Catalytic Activity of Au25 Nanocluster by Peeling and Doping
Authors: Li Man‐bo , Tian Shi‐kai , Wu Zhikun
Published: February 2017

Tuning the nanoclusters’ compositions and structures is critical for the performance improvement of nanoclusters. Herein, a well‐known Au25(SCH2CH2Ph)18 (Au25 for short) nanocluster has been transformed to a rare cadmium doped gold nanocluster [Au13Cd2(PPh3)6(SC2H4Ph)6(NO3)2]2Cd(NO3)4 (Au26Cd5 for short) by peeling and doping. Although Au25 exhibits no catalytic activity toward A3‐coupling reaction under the investigated conditions, the novel cadmium doped gold nanocluster Au26Cd5 shows high catalytic activity, as well as good recyclability and substrate tolerance for the same reaction. The high catalytic activity is attributed to the cooperation between the exerted cadmium atoms and the neighbor gold atoms on the surface of Au13 icosahedron. This work has important implication for the tuning of nanoclusters’ compositions and structures targeting the improvement of catalytic performance by some unusual but effective strategies.
Do Perceived Operational Impacts Affect the Portfolio of Carbon‐Abatement Technologies?
Authors: Chen Chien‐Ming , Montes‐Sancho Maria J.
Published: February 2017

Firms face a variety of stakeholder pressures to improve their environmental performance. A firm's perceptions of these pressures can radically affect its strategic reactions and subsequent resource allocation decisions. Previous studies do not explain how perceived operational impacts may influence a firm's investment in environmental technologies. This study examines the relationship between perceived impacts on process and product and carbon preventive projects within firms' environmental technology portfolio. Using carbon emissions and carbon disclosure data, we find that higher perceived process‐related impacts are associated with a higher proportion of carbon preventive projects, while perceived product‐related impacts have the opposite effect. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Spectra of electron pair under harmonic and Debye potential
Authors: Munjal D. , Prasad V.
Published: February 2017

Two electron systems confined by harmonic potential is known as harmonium. Such a system has been studied for many reasons in the literature. In this work we study harmonium under Debye potential. We use higher order finite difference method for the solution of Schrodinger equation. Complete energy spectrum of harmonium and harmonium under Debye potential is studied. Debye screening length shows considerable effect on the energy levels and the radial matrix elements. The results are analysed in the light of existing results and the comparison with available results shows remarkable agreement.
An energy‐efficient algorithm based on sleep‐scheduling in IP backbone networks
Authors: Dabaghi-Zarandi Fahimeh , Movahedi Zeinab
Published: February 2017

This paper relates to the problem of energy conservation in Internet backbone networks. We propose a new Distributed Green Algorithm based on Sleep‐scheduling (DGAS) to switch off some network links and nodes resulting in less energy consumption. Our solution does not depend on any centralized controller and uses a link‐state protocol like Open Shortest Path First to share required information. In addition, DGAS does not require any knowledge of traffic matrix and switches off network nodes and links in 2 phases. In the first phase, some core nodes are switched off on the basis of their usage in network paths. In the second phase, DGAS starts with a minimal topology on the basis of resulted topology from the first phase and adds some links to it to minimize network paths length. Results, obtained by several real network scenarios, show that DGAS can switch off up to 27% of core nodes and up to 80% of links compared to the maximum number of switchable links.
New national construction product regulations of the German states
Authors: Halstenberg Michael
Published: February 2017

The European Court of Justice ruled in October 2014 that Germany had infringed the EU Construction Products Regulation because additional national requirements for harmonised products had been imposed in three cases. This means that the German practice until now, that additional national technical requirements are also imposed on harmonised construction products, will have to be abandoned. Germany has assured the EU Commission that the building regulation law will be appropriately changed by 16/10/2016. This could however not been implemented on time for various reasons, so the German states have issued enforcement decrees in order to adapt the legal situation to the ECJ judgment.

The legal situation at the moment is fairly complex and confusing. This article provides a brief overview.
Create a student‐ready campus by engaging everyone on campus
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: February 2017

SAN FRANCISCO — If you've worked with enrollment on your campus or have a vested interest as a campus academic leader in student success, you've thought about what prepares a student for your institution. But have you considered if your institution is really a student‐ready campus? That was the question posed by Tia McNair, vice president for diversity, student learning and success at the Association of American Colleges and Universities; Susan Albertine, senior scholar at AAC&U; Michelle Asha Cooper, president of the Institute for Higher Education Policy; and Nicole McDonald, strategy officer at the Lumina Foundation, at the annual AAC&U conference. McNair and her co‐presenters, who have written a book on the subject entitled Becoming a Student‐Ready College, outlined the attributes of a student‐ready institution, strategies for making your campus more student‐ready, and the benefits to your long‐term institutional success and mission of doing so.
Adopt 10 key strategies to develop fully online programs at scale
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: February 2017

Fully online programs can be a good way to grow enrollment and meet student needs. But officials need to understand from the beginning what it will cost to develop, deliver, and grow a program, said Cindy Wheatley of Keypath Education. At many institutions, officials focus on developing the courses and admitting students. But they don't look ahead financially, and the programs never break even.
Is fine needle aspiration really not necessary in patients with thyroid nodules ≤ 1 cm with highly suspicious features on ultrasonography and candidates for active surveillance?
Authors: Rosario Pedro Weslley , Silva Alexandre Lemos , Calsolari Maria Regina
Published: February 2017

Background

The low rate of progression associated with the potential complications of thyroidectomy makes active surveillance an increasingly recommended management in low‐risk papillary microcarcinomas of the thyroid (PMT). The objective of this study was to report the results of fine needle aspiration (FNA) of nodules ≤ 1 cm with highly suspicious appearance on ultrasonography (US) in patients who are potential candidates for active surveillance.

Methods

We revised thyroid nodules ≤ 1 cm with highly suspicious appearance on US in patients without known distant metastases, suspicion of extrathyroid extension, or suspicious lymph nodes on US. FNA was guided by US. All patients were referred for surgery, except for those with benign cytology (on two occasions).

Results

There were 181 patients with 198 nodules ≤ 1 cm that were highly suspicious and apparently restricted to the thyroid on US. Initial cytology was benign in 76 nodules (38.4%). Among these 76 nodules, repetition of FNA confirmed the benign nature in 59 (29.8%). Initial cytology was insufficient, indeterminate, suspicious of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and malignant (PTC) in 5, 15, 12, 9, and 80 nodules, respectively. FNA revealed medullary carcinoma in one patient. All 90 suspicious or malignant nodules were carcinomas on histology and 22 (81.4%) of the 27 nodules with indeterminate cytology were malignant.

Conclusions

FNA changed the “presumptive” diagnosis of PMT in 30% of nodules. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:294–296. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The association of chronic kidney disease and microalbuminuria with heart failure with preserved vs. reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Nayor Matthew , Larson Martin G. , Wang Na , Santhanakrishnan Rajalakshmi , Lee Douglas S. , Tsao Connie W. , Cheng Susan , Benjamin Emelia J. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Levy Daniel , Fox Caroline S. , Ho Jennifer E.
Published: February 2017

Aims

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and microalbuminuria are associated with incident heart failure (HF), but their relative contributions to HF with preserved vs. reduced EF (HFpEF and HFrEF) are unknown. We sought to evaluate the associations of CKD and microalbuminuria with incident HF subtypes in the community‐based Framingham Heart Study (FHS).

Methods and results

We defined CKD as glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and microalbuminuria as a urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥17 mg/g in men and ≥25 mg/g in women. We observed 754 HF events (324 HFpEF/326 HFrEF/104 unclassified) among 9889 FHS participants with serum creatinine measured (follow‐up 13 ± 4 years). In Cox models adjusted for clinical risk factors, CKD (prevalence = 9%) was associated with overall HF [hazard ratio (HR) 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.51], but was not significantly associated with individual HF subtypes. Among 2912 individuals with available UACR (follow‐up 15 ± 4 years), 192 HF events (91 HFpEF/93 HFrEF/8 unclassified) occurred. Microalbuminuria (prevalence = 17%) was associated with a higher risk of overall HF (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.25–2.34) and HFrEF (HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.35–3.26), but not HFpEF (HR 1.26, 95% CI 0.78–2.03). In cross‐sectional analyses, microalbuminuria was associated with LV systolic dysfunction (odds ratio 3.19, 95% CI 1.67–6.09).

Conclusions

Microalbuminuria was associated with incident HFrEF prospectively, and with LV systolic dysfunction cross‐sectionally in a community‐based sample. In contrast, CKD was modestly associated with overall HF but not differentially associated with HFpEF vs. HFrEF. The mechanisms responsible for the relationship of microalbuminuria to future development of HFrEF warrant further investigation.
Shape‐Stabilized Phase Change Materials Based on Stearic Acid and Mesoporous Hollow SiO2 Microspheres (SA/SiO2) for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Fan Shuang , Gao Hongyi , Dong Wenjun , Tang Jia , Wang Jingjing , Yang Mu , Wang Ge
Published: February 2017

The development of solar energy conversion and storage technologies has been attracting considerable attention in recent years. In this paper, a novel shape‐stabilized phase change material (SSPCM) based on stearic acid (SA) and mesoporous hollow SiO2 microspheres (SA/SiO2) was synthesized by an impregnating method. The mesoporous silica microspheres with an additional hollow cavity not only provide high loading capacity but also favor the free crystallization of SA, which is confined in the hollow microspheres by interfacial interaction and capillary action. There is no leakage from the obtained SSPCMs even if the temperature exceeds the melting point of SA. The SA/SiO2 PCM with 70 wt.‐% of SA exhibits high latent heat (reaching up to 135.3 J g–1), and its related thermal conductivity is 0.56 W mK–1, which was enhanced by 56 % relative to that of pure SA. Moreover, the SA/SiO2 composites show excellent thermal stability, which is beneficial for latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES).
Visible‐Light Photocatalysis as an Enabling Tool for the Functionalization of Unactivated C(sp3)‐Substrates
Authors: Roslin Sara , Odell Luke R.
Published: February 2017

Over the past decade, visible‐light photocatalysis has emerged as one of the brightest and most dynamic fields in modern organic chemistry. By employing a transition‐metal‐ or organic‐dye‐based photocatalyst in conjunction with a low‐energy visible‐light source, this synthetic manifold allows the facile generation of radical intermediates that can subsequently be directed through a wide range of transformations. Although initial studies focused largely on the functionalization of stabilized radical intermediates, over the past few years significant efforts have been directed towards the functionalization of challenging unactivated radical precursors. In this review we summarize the recent developments in the use of visible‐light photocatalysis for the functionalization of unactivated C(sp3)‐substrates.
Synthesis and Hydrolytic Stability of N‐ and O‐Methyloxyamine Linkers for the Synthesis of GlycoconjugatesSynthesis and Hydrolytic Stability of N‐ and O‐Methyloxyamine Linkers for the Synthesis of Glycoconjugates
Authors: Munneke Stefan , Hill Jaimé C. , Timmer Mattie S. M. , Stocker Bridget L.
Published: February 2017

A comparison of the merits of N‐ and O‐methyloxyamines as linkers for carbohydrates is presented for the first time. In particular, optimized synthetic routes for each linker type are given, and the ease of glycan conjugation is described. The hydrolytic stabilities of the respective oxyamine glycoconjugates under a variety of different conditions are reported. This provides insight into the factors that influence hydrolysis rates, and sheds light on the acid‐catalysed hydrolysis mechanism.
Addition of Primary Amines to 2‐(1‐Alkynyl)‐2‐cycloalken‐1‐ones
Authors: Urbanaitė Aurelija , Šteinys Lukas , Brukštus Algirdas , Čikotienė Inga
Published: February 2017

The regio‐ and stereoselective nucleophilic addition of primary aliphatic amines to 2‐(1‐alkynyl)‐2‐alken‐1‐ones was found to proceed through double‐bond migration. In particular, this is a mild and atom‐economical route for the preparation of (Z)‐β‐enaminones having cycloalkene rings.
Electrochemical Selective Determination of Uranyl Ions Using PVC Membrane Sensor
Authors: Akl Zeinab F.
Published: February 2017

A UO22+‐PVC membrane electrode was constructed using 2‐thenoyltrifluoroacetone as ionophore and its electrochemical response performance was characterized. The effect of membrane composition on the electrode performance was studied and best results were obtained using dioctylsebacate as a mediator and potassium tetrakis(4‐chlorophenyl)borate as anion excluder. The optimized UO22+‐sensor exhibited a Nernstian response with a slope of 29.5±0.5 mV decade−1 over the concentration range 5.0×10−7−1.0×10−1 mol L−1 at 25 °C with a detection limit of 3.1×10−7 mol L−1. The optimized electrode showed very good selectivity towards UO22+ relative to a wide variety of other cations and fast response time. Surface morphology of the optimized membrane electrode at different stages of its development and use was investigated and discussed. Quantum chemical calculations for geometrical optimization of the ionophore were carried out to investigate the interaction between the ionophore and UO22+ using DFT B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p) level of theory and the obtained data confirmed the proposed response mechanism. The developed sensor was successfully applied for UO22+ selective determination in real water samples and the obtained results were compared to those obtained by spectrophotometric method indicating no significant difference.
Residual structural capacity evaluation of steel moment‐resisting frames with dynamic‐strain‐based model updating method
Authors: Suzuki Akiko , Kurata Masahiro , Li Xiaohua , Shimmoto Shota
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a method for evaluating the residual structural capacity of earthquake‐affected steel structures. The method first quantifies the damage severity of a beam by computing the dynamic‐strain‐based damage index. Next, the model used to analyze the structure is updated based on the damage index, to reflect the observed damage conditions. The residual structural capacity is then estimated in terms of changes in stiffness and strength, which can be applied by structural engineers, via a nonlinear static analysis of the updated model. The main contributions of this paper are in performance evaluation of the dynamic‐strain‐based damage index for seismically induced damage using a newly developed substructure testing environment, consideration of various damage patterns in composite beams, and extension of a local damage evaluation technique to a residual capacity estimation procedure by incorporating the model‐updating technique. In laboratory testing, the specimens were damaged quasi‐statically, and vibration tests were conducted as the damage proceeded. First, a bare steel beam–column connection was tested, and then a similar one with a floor slab was used for a more realistic case. The estimated residual structural capacities for these specimens were compared with the static test results. The results verified that the proposed method can provide fine estimates of the stiffness and strength deteriorations within 10% for the specimen without the floor slab and within 30% for that with the floor slab. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is overestimation of body size associated with neuropsychological weaknesses in anorexia nervosa?
Authors: Øverås Maria , Kapstad Hilde , Brunborg Cathrine , Landrø Nils Inge , Rø Øyvind
Published: February 2017

Background

Recent research indicates some evidence of neuropsychological weaknesses in visuospatial memory, central coherence and set‐shifting in adults with anorexia nervosa (AN). The growing interest in neuropsychological functioning of patients with AN is based upon the assumption that neuropsychological weaknesses contribute to the clinical features of the illness. However, due to a paucity of research on the connection between neuropsychological difficulties and the clinical features of AN, this link remains hypothetical. The main objective of this study was to explore the association between specific areas of neuropsychological functioning and body size estimation in patients with AN and healthy controls.

Methods

The sample consisted of 36 women diagnosed with AN and 34 healthy female controls. Participants were administered the continuous visual memory test and the recall trials of Rey Complex Figure Test to assess visual memory. Central coherence was assessed using the copy trial of Rey Complex Figure Test, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test was used to assess set‐shifting. Body size estimation was assessed with a computerized morphing programme.

Results

The analyses showed no significant correlations between any of the neuropsychological measures and body size estimation.

Conclusion

The results suggest that there is no association between these areas of neuropsychological difficulties and body size estimation among patients with AN. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Improvement of moving particle semi‐implicit method for simulation of progressive water waves
Authors: Wang Lizhu , Jiang Qin , Zhang Changkuan
Published: February 2017

Precise simulation of the propagation of surface water waves, especially when involving breaking wave, takes a significant place in computational fluid dynamics. Because of the strong nonlinear properties, the treatment of large surface deformation of free surface flow has always been a challenging work in the development of numerical models. In this paper, the moving particle semi‐implicit (MPS) method, an entirely Lagrangian method, is modified to simulate wave motion in a 2‐D numerical wave flume preferably. In terms of consecutive pressure distribution, a new and simple free surface detection criterion is proposed to enhance the free surface recognition in the MPS method. In addition, a revised gradient model is deduced to diminish the effect of nonuniform particle distribution and then to reduce the numerical wave attenuation occurring in the original MPS model. The applicability and stability of the improved MPS method are firstly demonstrated by the calculation of hydrostatic problem. It is revealed that these modifications are effective to suppress the pressure oscillation, weaken the local particle clustering, and boost the stability of numerical algorithm. It is then applied to investigate the propagation of progressive waves on a flat bed and the wave breaking on a mild slope. Comparisons with the analytical solutions and experimental results indicate that the improved MPS model can give better results about the profiles and heights of surface waves in contrast with the previous MPS models. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The association of a heart attack or stroke with depressive symptoms stratified by the presence of a close social contact: findings from the National Health and Aging Trends Study Cohort
Authors: Simning Adam , Seplaki Christopher L. , Conwell Yeates
Published: February 2017

Objective

The objective of the study is to examine whether the risk of having clinically significant depressive symptoms following a heart attack or stroke varies by the presence of a close social contact.

Methods

The National Health and Aging Trends Study is a nationally representative longitudinal survey of US Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older initiated in 2011. A total of 5643 older adults had information on social contacts at baseline and depressive symptoms at the 1‐year follow‐up interview. The two‐item Patient Health Questionnaire identified clinically significant depressive symptoms. Interview questions examined social contacts and the presence of self‐reported heart attack or stroke during the year of follow‐up.

Results

A total of 297 older adults reported experiencing a heart attack and/or stroke between their baseline and follow‐up interviews. In regression analyses accounting for sociodemographics, baseline depressive symptoms, medical comorbidity, and activities of daily living impairment, older adults with no close social contacts had increased odds of depressive symptoms at follow‐up after experiencing a heart attack or stroke, while those with close social contacts had increased odds of depressive symptoms at follow‐up after experiencing a stroke, but not a heart attack.

Conclusions

Older adults have increased odds of having depressive symptoms following a self‐reported stroke, but only those with no close social contacts had increased odds of depressive symptoms following a heart attack. Social networks may play a role in the mechanisms underlying depression among older adults experiencing certain acute health events. Future work exploring the potential causal relationships suggested here, if confirmed, could inform interventions to alleviate or prevent depression among at risk older adults. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Analysis of Sibling Correlations in Health using Latent Variable Models
Authors: Halliday Timothy J. , Mazumder Bhashkar
Published: February 2017

We investigate sibling correlations in youth health status using the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. We do so by estimating the covariance structure of a system of equations in latent variables using methods that have hitherto not been used in the literature on intergenerational transmissions of health. Across a battery of outcomes, we find that between 50 and 60% of health status can be attributed to shared familial or neighborhood characteristics. Taking the principal component across all outcomes, we obtain a sibling correlation of about 53%. These estimates, which are larger than previous estimates of sibling correlations in health that rely on linear models, are more in‐line with sibling correlations in income and suggest that health status, like other measures of socioeconomic success, is strongly influenced by family background. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
N‐glycan in cockroach allergen regulates human basophil function
Authors: Do Danh C. , Yang Shuang , Yao Xu , Hamilton Robert G. , Schroeder John T. , Gao Peisong
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Cockroach allergen exposure elicits cockroach sensitization and poses an increased risk for asthma. However, the major components in cockroach allergen and the mechanisms underlying the induction of cockroach allergen‐induced allergy and asthma remain largely elusive. We sought to examine the role of cockroach‐associated glycan in regulating human basophil function.

Methods

N‐linked glycans from naturally purified cockroach allergen Bla g 2 were characterized by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Binding of cockroach allergen to serum IgE from cockroach allergic subjects was determined by solid‐phase binding immunoassays. Role of cockroach associated glycan in histamine release and IL‐4 production from human basophils was examined. Expression of C‐type lectin receptors (CLRs) and their role in mediating glycan‐uptake in the basophils was also investigated.

Results

MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometric analysis of N‐glycan from Bla g 2 showed complex hybrid‐types of glycans that terminated with mannose, galactose, and/or N‐acetyl glucosamine (GlcNAc). Deglycosylated Bla g 2 showed reduced binding to IgE and was less capable of inducing histamine release from human basophils. In contrast, N‐glycan derived from Bla g 2 significantly inhibited histamine release and IL‐4 production from basophils passively sensitized with serum from cockroach allergic subjects. An analysis of CLRs revealed the expression of DC‐SIGN and DCIR, but not MRC1 and dectin‐1, in human basophils. Neutralizing antibody to DCIR, but not DC‐SIGN, significantly inhibited Bla g 2 uptake by human basophils. A dose‐dependent bindings of cockroach allergen to DCIR was also observed.

Conclusions

These observations indicate a previously unrecognized role for cockroach allergen‐associated glycans in allergen‐induced immune reactions, and DCIR may play a role in mediating the regulation of glycan on basophil function.