bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of sorbent reactivity on flue gas desulphurization in fluidized‐bed boilers under air firing mode
Authors: Szymanek Arkadiusz , de las Obras‐Loscertales Margarita , Pajdak Anna
Published: September 2017

The article presents research into the reactivity and SO2 sorption abilities of calcareous sorbents, which vary in quality. Two sorbents were used: limestone and travertine, with grain sizes between 0.125 and 0.250 mm. The sorbent reactivity tests were performed on a laboratory test stand. The reactivity index and the conversion degree were also determined. SO2 sorption studies were conducted in an industrial boiler. The desulphurization efficiency was determined taking into the account the content of calcium and sulphur put into and taken out of the boiler. The relation of the desulphurization process parameters such as fuel sulphur content, stream sorbent, sorbent utilization degree, desulphurization efficiency, depending on the molar ratio Ca/S and the duration of the process was specified. The SO2 sorption results were compared with the reactivity index of the sorbents. The investigation in dry combustion‐gas desulphurization methods showed the high quality of the sorbents whose reactivity index is above 3.5.
Plasmonic Fields Focused to Molecular Size
Authors: Minamimoto Hiro , Oikawa Shunpei , Li Xiaowei , Murakoshi Kei
Published: September 2017

Efficient use of light energy is regarded as a key factor in solving energy challenges to create a sustainable society. The highly concentrated photon energy generated by localized surface plasmon resonance excitation in the vicinity of metal nanostructures can enhance light‐matter interaction. Optimization of the interactions between plasmons and electrons in materials can lead to novel light energy applications. To overcome the current limitations for these interactions, the plasmon field must be focused to an extremely small size close to the molecular scale. Formation of the plasmonic field at the quantum limit may cause interesting phenomena with unique photoresponses. Recently, following the development of nanofabrication techniques, detailed investigations have been undertaken to understand these processes. In this focus review, we describe recent advances in the strong interactions between highly localized photons and electrons in nanomaterials, including molecules, nanocarbons, and quantized nanoparticles. First, we outline the plasmonic properties that depend on the metal nanostructures. In addition, we describe surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), which is used to detect interactions between plasmons and materials. The importance of the resonant electronic excitation process, which is a chemical effect based on the charge transfer contribution, is discussed while considering the unique molecular selectivity in SERS. We then highlight the unique photoresponse properties that are used for ultra‐sensitive detection of single molecules by the localized plasmon field. These properties are major advantages of the plasmon field. Next, we introduce strong coupling between plasmons and excitons. This coupling state is promising because of its ability to modify the intrinsic optical properties of materials via creation of a novel absorption wavelength region to accumulate the light energy. Finally, we discuss the use of plasmon excitation for effective chemical reactions accompanied by electron transfer. We conclude that reduction of light to the molecular scale would open novel routes for energy manipulation required by the next generation.
Surface Engineering Layered Metal–Organic Framework to Enhance Processability and Stability in Water
Authors: Li Yung‐Lin , Chi Heng‐Yu , Kan Ming‐Yang , Pao Szu‐Ying , Kang Yu‐Hao , Chen Jiun‐Jen , Kang Dun‐Yen
Published: September 2017

Despite considerable advancements of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), the practical implementation of MOFs is still hindered by issues of stability and processability. In this work, we sought to overcome these difficulties through surface engineering. As a proof of concept, we subjected ZIF‐L with a unique layered crystal morphology to a shell‐ligand exchange reaction. This resulted in the partial replacement of 2‐methylimidazole by benzimidazole as the linker in the framework on the outer surface of the crystals, thereby changing the surface of the ZIF‐L crystal from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. The engineered ZIF‐L (hereafter referred to as Benz‐ZIF‐L) formed a stable dispersion in the nonpolar solvent, hexane. The suspension of Benz‐ZIF‐L in hexane was applied via spin coating to a porous substrate of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), resulting in a thin film of high density. In contrast, the application of a suspension of pure ZIF‐L in the same manner did not result in the formation of a thin film. Benz‐ZIF‐L also exceeded pure ZIF‐L with regard to hydrothermal stability and acid/base resistance.
Centrifugation‐Free Magnetic Isolation of Functional Mitochondria Using Paramagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Banik Bhabatosh , Dhar Shanta
Published: September 2017

Subcellular fractionation techniques are essential for cell biology and drug development studies. The emergence of organelle‐targeted nanoparticle (NP) platforms necessitates the isolation of target organelles to study drug delivery and activity. Mitochondria‐targeted NPs have attracted the attention of researchers around the globe, since mitochondrial dysfunctions can cause a wide range of diseases. Conventional mitochondria isolation methods involve high‐speed centrifugation. The problem with high‐speed centrifugation‐based isolation of NP‐loaded mitochondria is that NPs can pellet even if they are not bound to mitochondria. We report development of a mitochondria‐targeted paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle, Mito‐magneto, that enables isolation of mitochondria under the influence of a magnetic field. Isolation of mitochondria using Mito‐magneto eliminates artifacts typically associated with centrifugation‐based isolation of NP‐loaded mitochondria, thus producing intact, pure, and respiration‐active mitochondria. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Determination of Membrane Protein Distribution on the Nuclear Envelope by Single‐Point Single‐Molecule FRAP
Authors: Mudumbi Krishna C. , Yang Weidong
Published: September 2017

Nuclear envelope transmembrane proteins (NETs) are synthesized on the endoplasmic reticulum and then transported from the outer nuclear membrane (ONM) to the inner nuclear membrane (INM) in eukaryotic cells. The abnormal distribution of NETs has been associated with many human diseases. However, quantitative determination of the spatial distribution and translocation dynamics of NETs on the ONM and INM is still very limited in currently existing approaches. Here we demonstrate a single‐point single‐molecule fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) microscopy technique that enables quick determination of distribution and translocation rates for NETs in vivo. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cellular Detection of G‐Quadruplexes by Optical Imaging Methods
Authors: Amor Souheila , Yang Sunny Y. , Wong Judy M. Y. , Monchaud David
Published: September 2017

G‐quadruplexes (G4s) are higher‐order nucleic acid structures that fold from guanine (G)–rich DNA and RNA strands. This field of research gains traction as a major chemical biology area since it aims at uncovering many key cellular mechanisms in which quadruplexes are involved. The wealth of knowledge acquired over the past three decades strongly supports pivotal roles of G4 in the regulation of gene expression at both transcriptional (DNA quadruplexes) and translational levels (RNA quadruplexes). Recent biochemical discoveries uncovered myriad of additional G4 actions: from chromosomal stability to the firing of replication origins, from telomere homeostasis to functional dysregulations underlying genetic diseases (including cancers and neurodegeneration). Here, we listed a repertoire of protocols that we have developed over the past years to visualize quadruplexes in cells. These achievements were made possible thanks to the discovery of a novel family of versatile quadruplex‐selective fluorophores, the twice‐as‐smart quadruplex ligands named TASQ (for template‐assembled synthetic G‐quartet). The versatility of this probe allows for multiple imaging techniques in both fixed and live cells, including the use of the multiphoton microscopy, confocal microscopy, and real‐time fluorescent image collection. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Extracellular Alkalinization Assay for the Detection of Early Defense Response
Authors: Moroz Natalia , Huffaker Alisa , Tanaka Kiwamu
Published: September 2017

Plant recognition of invading organisms occurs through identification of foreign molecules associated with attackers and of self‐derived, damage‐associated molecules. Perception of these molecules activates signaling processes including dynamic changes in ion balance, production of second messengers such as reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide, increased levels of plant hormones, and map kinase cascade activation. Together these signaling events stimulate transcriptional changes to initiate plant defense responses. Among the earliest detectable signaling events is a rapid increase in apoplastic pH, i.e., extracellular alkalinization. Here, an assay for quantification of this alkalinization response using suspension‐cultured cell lines for Arabidopsis, potato, and maize is described. This assay is an inexpensive, fast, simple, and reproducible method to quantify defense signaling output, providing a powerful tool for evaluating early plant responses to elicitors and pathogens. Results from the alkalinization assay are comparable to other more costly and time‐consuming methods for assessing defense signaling, such as measurement of the oxidative burst, calcium influx, and marker gene expression. This bioassay is a quantitative and robust method for evaluation of plant defense output. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Aqueous and Template‐Free Synthesis of Meso–Macroporous Polymers for Highly Selective Capture and Conversion of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Huang Kuan , Liu Fujian , Jiang Lilong , Dai Sheng
Published: September 2017

Meso–macroporous polymers possessing nitrogen functionality were innovatively synthesized through an aqueous and template‐free route herein. Specifically, the polymerization of 1‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazaadamantan‐1‐ium chloride in aqueous solution under high temperatures induces the decomposition of the hexamethylenetetramine unit into ammonia and formaldehyde molecules, followed by the cross‐linking of benzene rings through “resol chemistry”. During this process, extended meso–macroporous frameworks were constructed, and active nitrogen species were incorporated. Taking the advantage of the meso–macroporosity and nitrogen functionality, the synthesized polymers offer competitive CO2 capacities (0.37–1.58 mmol g−1 at 0 °C and 0.15 bar) and outstanding CO2/N2 selectivities (155–324 at 0 °C). Furthermore, after complexed with metal ions, the synthesized polymers show excellent activity for catalyzing the cycloaddition of propylene oxide with CO2 (yield>98.5 %, turnover frequency: 612.9–761.1 h−1).
Horse hair follicles: A novel dermal stem cell source for equine regenerative medicine
Authors: Michler Jule K. , Hillmann Aline , Savkovic Vuk , Mülling Christoph K. W.
Published: September 2017

The easily accessible niche represented by skin and its appendages may serve as a promising source to complement modern regenerative medicine for horses. In humans and in animal models for human medicine, the hair follicle and its stem cell niches are well characterized. Since literature in this field of equine research is scarce, we sought to analyze cells of the dermal stem cell niche of the equine hair follicle morphologically and for a subset of markers useful for cell characterization via immunolabeling. We cultured equine forelock skin explants to obtain cultures with cells migrating from the hair follicles. Isolation of cells revealed typical fibroblast morphology with a strong tendency to aggregate and form spheroids. For immunofluorescent characterization of primary isolations, we tested an antibody panel consisting of lineage makers for the dermal compartment of the hair follicle, markers associated with an undifferentiated cell status and markers for epithelial cell types as negative controls. All antibodies used were also tested on equine skin sections. The isolated cells displayed clear profiles of dermal and undifferentiated cells. To substantiate our findings, we tested our primary isolations for established equine multipotent mesenchymal stromal cell antigen expression markers in flow cytometry experiments yielding strong convergence. The data presented here provide insights to a stem cell source in horses almost unnoticed to date. The basic investigations of the equine dermal hair follicle stem cell niche confirm the expression of standard markers used in other species and lay the foundation for future studies on this easily available adult stem cell source. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Automated and simplified identification of normal and abnormal plasma cells in Multiple Myeloma by flow cytometry
Authors: Alaterre Elina , Raimbault Sébastien , Garcia Jean‐Michel , Rème Thierry , Requirand Guilhem , Klein Bernard , Moreaux Jérôme
Published: September 2017

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable disease characterized by clonal plasma cell (PC) proliferation within the bone marrow (BM). Next‐generation flow cytometry has become the reference tool to follow minimal residual disease (MRD). We developed a new simpler and cheaper flow cytometry method to analyze bone marrow samples in patients with MM.

Methods

To identify and characterize abnormal PCs, we designed a simple panel composed of anti‐CD38, antikappa, and antilambda light chain antibodies, combined with two antibody pools with the same fluorophore (anti‐CD19 and anti‐CD27 for the negative pool and anti‐CD56, anti‐CD117, and anti‐CD200 antibodies for the positive pool). We also developed dedicated software for the automated identification of malignant PCs and MRD assessment. We then compared PC identification with our simple antibody panel and with the larger antibody panel routinely used at Montpellier University Hospital Center in 52 patients with MM (M‐CHU cohort).

Results

Results for total PC detection (r2 = 0.9965; P < 0.001; n = 52) and malignant PC detection (r2 = 0.9486; P < 0.001; n = 38) obtained with the two panels were significantly correlated. Moreover, comparison of the results obtained by automated detection with our software and by manual gating analysis in 80 BM samples (38 from the M‐CHU cohort and 42 patients from another MM cohort) showed strong correlation for both total and malignant PC selection (respectively, r2 = 0.936; P < 0.001 and r2 = 0.9505; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our simple and automated strategy for MRD assessment in MM could help increasing reproducibility and productivity without compromising sensitivity and specificity, while decreasing the test cost. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Asymmetries in leaf branch are associated with differential speeds along growth axes: A theoretical prediction
Authors: Nakamasu Akiko , Suematsu Nobuhiko J. , Kimura Seisuke
Published: September 2017

Background: Morphogenesis, when accompanied by continuous growth, requires stable positional information to create a balanced shape in an organism. Evenly spaced branches are examples of such morphogenesis. Previously, we created a model that showed when a one‐dimensional (1D) ring (a boundary of a 2D field) was periodically deformed based on a stable, doubled iterative pattern during expansion; a nested, regularly spaced, symmetrically branched structure was generated. The characteristic divaricating pattern is common in the leaves of many plant species; however, the divarication symmetry was often broken. To evaluate this type of asymmetry, we investigated several species with dissected or compound leaves. Results: Sometimes these leaves showed asymmetries in the number of lobes or segments positioned on either side of the secondary axes. The direction of the asymmetry, i.e., which side of a secondary axis has more axes, appeared to be species‐specific. Conclusions: When different growth speeds along axes of a divaricating leaf were introduced into our previous model, robust and directed asymmetries were reproduced. The differences in growth speed could be predicted from the distributions of leaf segments in actual leaves. Developmental Dynamics 246:981–991, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of climate change on bud phenology of young aspen plants (Populus tremula. L)
Authors: Sivadasan Unnikrishnan , Randriamanana Tendry , Chenhao Cao , Virjamo Virpi , Nybakken Line , Julkunen‐Tiitto Riitta
Published: September 2017

Boreal tree species are excellent tools for studying tolerance to climate change. Bud phenology is a trait, which is highly sensitive to environmental fluctuations and thus useful for climate change investigations. However, experimental studies of bud phenology under simulated climate change outdoors are deficient. We conducted a multifactorial field experiment with single (T, UVA, UVB) and combined treatments (UVA+T, UVB+T) of elevated temperature (T, +2°C) and ultraviolet‐B radiation (+30% UVB) in order to examine their impact on both male and female genotypes of aspen (Populus tremula L.). This study focuses on the effect of the treatments in years 2 and 3 after planting (2013, 2014) and follows how bud phenology is adapting in year 4 (2015), when the treatments were discontinued. Moreover, the effect of bud removal was recorded. We found that elevated temperature played a key role in delaying bud set and forcing bud break in intact individuals, as well as slightly delaying bud break in bud‐removed individuals. UVB delayed the bud break in bud‐removed males. In addition, both UVA and UVB interacted with temperature in year 3 and even in year 4, when the treatments were off, but only in male individuals. Axillary bud removal forced both bud break and bud set under combined treatments (UVA+T, UVB+T) and delayed both under individual treatments (T, UVB). In conclusion, male aspens were more responsive to the treatments than females and that effect of elevated temperature and UV radiation on bud set and bud break of aspen is not disappearing over 4‐year study period.
Jointly modeling niche width and phylogenetic distance to explain species co‐occurrence
Authors: Elliott Tammy L. , Davies T. Jonathan
Published: September 2017

Competitive exclusion is most likely when there are large differences in competitive ability and the strength of competitive interactions between species is high, but predicting competitive outcomes is not straightforward. Assuming a trade‐off between competitive ability and ecological generalism, we would predict larger competitive differences between species with different niche widths. Community phylogenetic theory predicts that competition will be stronger among more closely related species, assuming that phylogenetic distance reflects ecological similarity. We would therefore expect the probability of competitive exclusion to be highest among closely related species with different niche widths. Here, we assess how well differences in niche width and phylogenetic distance correlate with co‐occurrences among 34 species of Cyperaceae (sedges) in the eastern Canadian subarctic. The Cyperaceae is a species‐rich family, with many species sharing similar niches and environmental tolerances, making it a model clade for evaluating the importance of niche width differences and phylogenetic distances on co‐occurrence. Consistent with both hypotheses, we found that higher co‐occurrence scores correlated with species pairs that were distantly or only intermediately related and that had similar niche widths. Furthermore, we show that this correlation is stronger when considering only more recently diverged species pairs and that there is a triangular relationship between phylogenetic distance and species co‐occurrence, suggesting that distantly related species might have both strong and weak competitive interactions. Using co‐occurrence as a proxy for competitive outcomes, our results support both a negative correlation between phylogenetic distance and strength of competitive interactions, and a trade‐off between niche width and competitive ability.
Immediate signaling flexibility in response to experimental noise in urban, but not rural, white‐crowned sparrows
Authors: Gentry Katherine E. , Derryberry Elizabeth P. , Danner Raymond M. , Danner Julie E. , Luther David A.
Published: September 2017

Background noise can interfere with acoustic communication. Signal modifications have the potential to increase signal‐to‐noise ratios and reduce the masking effect of noise. Immediate signaling flexibility, a type of vocal plasticity, allows animals to modify their signal to optimize transmission depending on ambient noise conditions. Results from previous studies provide conflicting evidence about whether expression of immediate signaling flexibility is dependent upon the signaler having prior experience with noisy environments. To improve our understanding of vocal plasticity, we examined immediate signaling flexibility in white‐crowned sparrows Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli in urban and rural locations. We experimentally broadcast noise with three different spectral profiles—city (low frequency), inverse of city (high frequency), and white (equal intensity at all frequencies)—successfully to 107 males and measured multiple features of songs produced prior to and during the experiment. We predicted that all males would adjust their song structure during the noise broadcast, but that the extent of plasticity would be greater in noisier territories and the manner of adjustment would depend on the type of experimental noise broadcast. Instead, we found that only urban males exhibit immediate signaling flexibility, through which bandwidth decreases in response to experimental noise. Signal modification did not change with type of noise broadcast or territory background noise. Although songs were less flexible than predicted, the relative reduction in signal bandwidth in urban birds could improve their signal‐to‐noise ratio during the noise broadcast.
Zebra migration strategies and anthrax in Etosha National Park, Namibia
Authors: Zidon Royi , Garti Shimon , Getz Wayne M. , Saltz David
Published: September 2017

Partial seasonal migration is ubiquitous in many species. We documented this phenomenon in plains zebra (Equus burchelli) in Etosha National Park, Namibia (ENP), and provided a cost–benefit analysis as it relates to the spatial distribution of water, vegetation, and endemic anthrax. This analysis draws upon two years ofENPzebra movement data that reveal two sub‐populations: migrators and non‐migrators. Migrators are shown to be behaviorally dominant in the way they utilize space and use water holes. We raise the possibility that the co‐existence of these two groups reflects an evolutionary process, and the size of each group maintains evolutionary equilibrium.
A modelling framework to simulate field‐scale nitrate response and transport during snowmelt: The WINTRA model
Authors: Costa Diogo , Roste Jennifer , Pomeroy John , Baulch Helen , Elliott Jane , Wheater Howard , Westbrook Cherie
Published: September 2017

Modelling nutrient transport during snowmelt in cold regions remains a major scientific challenge. A key limitation of existing nutrient models for application in cold regions is the inadequate representation of snowmelt, including hydrological and biogeochemical processes. This brief period can account for more than 80% of the total annual surface runoff in the Canadian Prairies and Northern Canada and processes such as atmospheric deposition, overwinter redistribution of snow, ion exclusion from snow crystals, frozen soils, and snow‐covered area depletion during melt influence the distribution and release of snow and soil nutrients, thus affecting the timing and magnitude of snowmelt runoff nutrient concentrations.

Research in cold regions suggests that nitrate (NO3) runoff at the field‐scale can be divided into 5 phases during snowmelt. In the first phase, water and ions originating from ion‐rich snow layers travel and diffuse through the snowpack. This process causes ion concentrations in runoff to gradually increase. The second phase occurs when this snow ion meltwater front has reached the bottom of the snowpack and forms runoff to the edge‐of‐the‐field. During the third and fourth phases, the main source of NO3 transitions from the snowpack to the soil. Finally, the fifth and last phase occurs when the snow has completely melted, and the thawing soil becomes the main source of NO3 to the stream.

In this research, a process‐based model was developed to simulate hourly export based on this 5‐phase approach. Results from an application in the Red River Basin of southern Manitoba, Canada, shows that the model can adequately capture the dynamics and rapid changes of NO3 concentrations during this period at relevant temporal resolutions. This is a significant achievement to advance the current nutrient modelling paradigm in cold climates, which is generally limited to satisfactory results at monthly or annual resolutions. The approach can inform catchment‐scale nutrient models to improve simulation of this critical snowmelt period.
Immune evasion mechanisms of human papillomavirus: An update
Authors: Steinbach Alina , Riemer Angelika B.
Published: September 2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most frequently sexually transmitted agent in the world. It can cause cervical and other anogenital malignancies, and oropharyngeal cancer. HPV has the unique ability to persist in the host's epithelium for a long time—longer than most viruses do—which is necessary to complete its replication cycle. To this end, HPV has developed a variety of immune evasion mechanisms, which unfortunately also favor the progression of the disease from infection to chronic dysplasia and eventually to cancer. This article summarizes the current knowledge about HPV immune evasion strategies. A special emphasis lies in HPV‐mediated changes of the antigen processing machinery, which is generating epitopes for T cells and contributes to the detectability of infected cells.
Hyaluronic acid‐hydroxyapatite nanocomposite hydrogels for enhanced biophysical and biological performance in a dermal matrix
Authors: Jeong Seol‐Ha , Fan Yingfang , Cheon Kwang‐Hee , Baek Jaeuk , Kim Sukwha , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: September 2017

A hyaluronic acid (HAc)‐hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanocomposite (HAc‐nanoHAp) hydrogel was fabricated through an in situ precipitation process for mechanical and biological enhancement as a soft tissue augmentation product. In this study, these composite hydrogel fillers were analyzed from three different perspectives and compared with pure HAc hydrogel for soft tissue augmentation application: (1) rheological behaviors, (2) in vivo lateral diffusion under mouse skin, and (3) wrinkle improvement in a photo‐aged mouse model. HAc‐nanoHAp provided great improvement to wrinkles because of its higher stiffness and gel cohesiveness in comparison with that of pure HAc. HAc‐nanoHAp also presented great enhancement in strengthening the dermal matrix by stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin. Thus, HAc‐nanoHAp filler has great potential as a soft tissue augmentation product, improving the biophysical and biological performance in skin tissue. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3315–3325, 2017.
The extracts of bredigite bioceramics enhanced the pluripotency of human dental pulp cells
Authors: Chen Lihong , Liu Lu , Wu Chengtie , Yang Ruiqi , Chang Jiang , Wei Xi
Published: September 2017

Biomaterials have a profound effect on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, but few studies have reported the role of extracts from bioceramics in the regulation of stem cell pluripotency. The present study investigated the effects of bioceramics extracts, including silicate bredigite (Ca7MgSi4O16) and conventional β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP), on the pluripotency and the multilineage differentiation potential of human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), which is a known regulator of hDPCs pluripotency, was used as a reference. Bredigite extracts significantly promoted cell growth, proliferation, TERT expression and maintained hDPCs in a presenescent state. The extracts of bredigite significantly up‐regulated the expression of pluripotency‐related genes such as Stro1, Oct4 and Sox2, and further promoted the multilineage differentiation of hDPCs after odontogenic/adipogenic induction. The stimulation of bredigite extracts on hDPCs pluripotency was comparable to that of bFGF, whereas β‐TCP extracts lacked these properties. Our results suggested for the first time that bredigite extracts enhance the pluripotency of dental‐derived stem cells, paving the way for extended applications in regenerative medicine. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3465–3474, 2017.
Quercetin and alendronate multi‐functionalized materials as tools to hinder oxidative stress damage
Authors: Forte Lucia , Torricelli Paola , Boanini Elisa , Rubini Katia , Fini Milena , Bigi Adriana
Published: September 2017

In spite of its remarkable anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐cancer properties and its possible inhibition activity towards bone resorption, quercetin therapeutic use is limited by its poor bioavailability. Herein we developed a new multifunctionalized system for the local administration of quercetin and alendronate, one of the most potent anti‐osteoporotic drugs, with the aim to get a material with enhanced properties. To this purpose we loaded quercetin on hydroxyapatite functionalized with alendronate, as well as on hydroxyapatite. Characterization was performed by means of X‐ray diffraction, FT‐IR and Raman spectroscopies, thermogravimetric and spectrophotometric analyses. Loading of quercetin from hydro‐alcoholic solution increased with time and reached a constant value of about 5 weight% on both substrates, without causing significant structural and morphological modifications. Quercetin functionalized materials exhibit relevant anti‐oxidant properties, in agreement with their high radical scavenging activity, and a quercetin sustained release in phosphate buffer. In vitro osteoblast and osteoclast co‐culture in a microenvironment altered by oxidative stress shows that both alendronate and quercetin significantly reduce osteoclast viability, whereas they are able to counteract the negative effect of oxidative stress on osteoblast viability and differentiation, suggesting that their relative amount in the functionalized materials can be utilized to tailor bone cells response. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3293–3303, 2017.
Quercetin reduces neural tissue damage and promotes astrocyte activation after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Wang Yeyang , Li Wenjun , Wang Mingsen , Lin Chuangxin , Li Guitao , Zhou Xiaozhong , Luo Junnan , Jin Dadi
Published: September 2017

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is lead to locomotor impairment because of neurological damage after following trauma. Quercetin (Que) has been confirmed to have a neuro‐protective effect during nerve damage processes. The purpose of this study was to determine the roles of Que in functional recovery, cavity formation, astrocyte activation, and nerve regeneration following SCI. Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: Sham group, SCI group, and Que + SCI group. A rat model of SCI was made at T10 using the modified Allen's method. In the Que + SCI group, animals underwent laminectomy and were then intraperitoneally injected with 20 mg/kg Que for 7 days. Locomotor function was determined with the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) scores at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days post‐injury. At 7 days post‐injury, somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded. Hematoxylin‐Eosin (HE) staining was used to investigate cavity formation. Astrocyte activation was assayed by immunohistochemistry staining with an antibody specific for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), as well as the expression of GFAP and S100β. Axons were stained using an antibody specific for neurofilament 200 (NF200) and 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT). In addition, the protein level of BDNF, p‐JNK2, and p‐STAT3 was detected using Western blot. Que promoted locomotor function and electrophysiological recovery, reduced cavity formation, contributed to astrocyte activation and axonal regeneration after acute SCI. Moreover, Que up‐regulated the expression of BDNF, but reduced p‐JNK2 and p‐STAT3 expression after acute SCI. Taken together, Que promoted locomotor and electrophysiological functional recovery, astrocyte activation and axonal regeneration after acute SCI, possibly through BDNF and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways.
Effects of long‐term low oxygen tension in human chondrosarcoma cells
Authors: Piltti Juha , Bygdell Joakim , Qu Chengjuan , Lammi Mikko J.
Published: September 2017

The cell‐based therapies could be potential methods to treat damaged cartilage tissues. Instead of native hyaline cartilage, the current therapies generate mainly weaker fibrocartilage‐type of repair tissue. A correct microenvironment influences the cellular phenotype, and together with external factors it can be used, for example, to aid the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to defined types of differentiated adult cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of long‐term exposure to 5% low oxygen atmosphere on human chondrosarcoma HCS‐2/8 cells. This atmosphere is close to normal oxygen tension of cartilage tissue. The proteome was analyzed with label‐free mass spectrometric method and further bioinformatic analysis. The qRT‐PCR method was used to gene expression analysis, and ELISA and dimethylmethylene blue assays for type II collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycan measurements. The 5% oxygen atmosphere did not influence cell proliferation, but enhanced slightly ACAN and COL2A1 gene expression. Proteomic screening revealed a number of low oxygen‐induced protein level responses. Increased ones included NDUFA4L2, P4HA1, NDRG1, MIF, LDHA, PYGL, while TXNRD1, BAG2, TXN2, AQSTM1, TNFRSF1B, and EPHX1 decreased during the long‐term low oxygen atmosphere. Also a number of proteins previously not related to low oxygen tension changed during the treatment. Of those S100P, RPSS26, NDUFB11, CDV3, and TUBB8 had elevated levels, while ALCAM, HLA‐B, EIF1, and ACOT9 were lower in the samples cultured at low oxygen tension. In conclusion, low oxygen condition causes changes in the cellular amounts of several proteins.
HNF1A/CASC2 regulates pancreatic cancer cell proliferation through PTEN/Akt signaling
Authors: Yu Yaqun , Liang Shuai , Zhou Yingqiong , Li Shuqun , Li Yixiong , Liao Weijia
Published: September 2017

Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a high mortality rate in all cancers worldwide. According to recent studies, long noncoding RNA‐CASC2 is involved in the development and progression of many malignant tumors; in the present study, we demonstrated that lncRNA‐CASC2 was specifically downregulated in PC tissues and cell lines, and a lower CASC2 expression in PC was related with a poorer prognosis. CASC2 suppressed PC cell proliferation. Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha (HNF1A) is a transcription factor known to regulate pancreatic differentiation and maintain the homeostasis of the endocrine pancreas. Recently, HNF1A is considered to be a possible tumor suppressor in PC. In the present study, we observed that HNF1A positively regulated CASC2 expression. Through luciferase assays, we demonstrated that CASC2 gene possessed an HNF1A‐responsive element (CASC2‐HNF1A RE); HNF1A could promote CASC2 expression through direct binding to CASC2‐HNF1A RE. Further, PTEN/Akt signaling was involved in HNF1A regulation of CASC2. Finally, we evaluated the expression level of HNF1A in PC tissues; lower HNF1A expression was correlated with shorter overall survival in patients with PC. Taken together, these findings will shed light on the role and mechanism of HNF1A/CASC2 in regulating PC cells proliferation through PTEN/Akt signaling. CASC2 may serve as a potential therapeutic target in PC in the future.
A computational study of samarium diiodide‐induced cyclizations of N‐oxoalkyl‐substituted methyl indole‐3‐carboxylates—A rationale of the diastereoselectivity
Authors: Achazi Andreas J. , Andrae Dirk , Reissig Hans‐Ulrich , Paulus Beate
Published: September 2017

A detailed model for the reaction mechanism of the samarium diiodide (SmI2) mediated reductive coupling of N‐oxoalkyl‐substituted methyl indole‐3‐carboxylates is developed in this study by determining the Gibbs energies for the intermediates of possible reaction pathways. The Gibbs energies at ambient temperature are calculated with dispersion corrected density functional theory in combination with implicit (D‐COSMO‐RS) and explicit solvent description. Temperature dependent ro‐vibrational contributions are considered with the help of statistical thermodynamics. In contrast to previous proposals for the reaction mechanism, the high diastereoselectivity in the cyclization is found to be due to the formation of an energetically highly favorable chelate complex in which the final relative configuration is already preformed. After cyclization and a second electron transfer, alkylation of the resulting anion takes place under kinetic control from the more “open” face whereas protonation is under thermodynamic control. The calculations are in good agreement with these experimental findings. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigation of challenging spin systems using Monte Carlo configuration interaction and the density matrix renormalization group
Authors: Coe Jeremy P. , Almeida Nuno M. S. , Paterson Martin J.
Published: September 2017

We investigate if a range of challenging spin systems can be described sufficiently well using Monte Carlo configuration interaction (MCCI) and the density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) in a way that heads toward a more “black box” approach. Experimental results and other computational methods are used for comparison. The gap between the lowest doublet and quartet state of methylidyne (CH) is first considered. We then look at a range of first‐row transition metal monocarbonyls: MCO when M is titanium, vanadium, chromium, or manganese. For these MCO systems we also employ partially spin restricted open‐shell coupled‐cluster (RCCSD). We finally investigate the high‐spin low‐lying states of the iron dimer, its cation and its anion. The multireference character of these molecules is also considered. We find that these systems can be computationally challenging with close low‐lying states and often multireference character. For this more straightforward application and for the basis sets considered, we generally find qualitative agreement between DMRG and MCCI. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigation on the absolute and relative photoionization cross sections of 3 potential propargylic fuels
Authors: Winfough Matthew , Meloni Giovanni
Published: September 2017

Absolute photoionization cross sections for 2 potential propargylic fuels (propargylamine and dipropargyl ether) along with the partial ionization cross sections for their dissociative fragments are measured and presented for the first time via synchrotron photoionization mass spectrometry. The experimental setup consists of a multiplexed orthogonal time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer and is located at the Advanced Light Source facility of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory in Berkeley, California. Data for a third propargylic compound (propargyl alcohol) were taken; however, because of its low signal, due to its weakly bound cation, only the dissociative ionization fragment from the H‐loss channel is observed and presented. Suggested pathways leading to formation of dissociative photoionization fragments along with CBS‐QB3 calculated adiabatic ionization energies and appearance energies for the dissociative fragments are also presented.
Fragmentation of 2‐aroylbenzofuran derivatives by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Dias Herbert J. , Vieira Tatiana M. , Crevelin Eduardo J. , Donate Paulo M. , Vessecchi Ricardo , Crotti Antônio E.M.
Published: September 2017

We investigated the gas‐phase fragmentation reactions of a series of 2‐aroylbenzofuran derivatives by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS). The most intense fragment ions were the acylium ions m/z 105 and [M+H–C6H6]+, which originated directly from the precursor ion as a result of 2 competitive hydrogen rearrangements. Eliminations of CO and CO2 from [M+H–C6H6]+ were also common fragmentation processes to all the analyzed compounds. In addition, eliminations of the radicals •Br and •Cl were diagnostic for halogen atoms at aromatic ring A, whereas eliminations of •CH3 and CH2O were useful to identify the methoxyl group attached to this same ring. We used thermochemical data, obtained at the B3LYP/6‐31+G(d) level of theory, to rationalize the fragmentation pathways and to elucidate the formation of E, which involved simultaneous elimination of 2 CO molecules from B.
Economic tradeoffs of managing for timber production or wildlife habitat
Authors: Davis Phillip Brock , Munn Ian A. , Henderson James E. , Strickland Bronson K.
Published: September 2017

Little quantitative information is available to nonindustrial‐private forest (NIPF) owners regarding economic tradeoffs between managing pine plantations for timber production or wildlife habitat. We modeled loblolly (Pinus taeda) pine plantations to quantify economic tradeoffs for competing management scenarios using densities aimed at wildlife habitat or timber production in the Lower Coastal Plain and Coastal Flatwoods regions of Mississippi, USA. Scenarios contained a range of site indices, planting densities, thinning densities and frequencies, and rotation lengths for timber maximization and white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) or northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) habitat production. Land expectation values (LEVs) were highest for timber scenarios, followed by joint deer and timber, joint quail and timber, deer, and quail management scenarios. Comparison to the regional hunting lease rate revealed that compensatory lease rates from the study could be realized, making wildlife management as valuable as timber management. The results of this study could help landowners be more informed about economic tradeoffs when making management decisions on their property. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Sinonasal quality of life after endoscopic resection of malignant sinonasal and skull base tumors
Authors: Glicksman Jordan T. , Parasher Arjun K. , Brooks Steven G. , Workman Alan D. , Lambert Justina L. , Bergman Jenna E. , Palmer James N. , Adappa Nithin D.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Improvement in sinonasal quality of life (QoL) following sinus surgery has been well‐documented across the literature. To our knowledge, only one series has evaluated long‐term QoL in patients undergoing tumor resection, and that study demonstrated no improvement in rhinologic QoL following malignant tumor resection at 2‐year follow‐up. The objective of the present study was to evaluate QoL in the 2 years following endoscopic malignant tumor resection.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed, including patients with both malignant and benign sinonasal tumors in a tertiary academic medical center. Patients undergoing endoscopic tumor resection who had completed Sinonasal Outcome Test 22 (SNOT‐22) questionnaires were included in the cohort. SNOT‐22 questionnaires were administered preoperatively and over a 2‐year follow‐up period at clinic visits. Longitudinal linear mixed‐effects regression was used to compare preoperative QoL to QoL over the 2 years following surgery.

Results

Among 145 patients included in this study, 64 had malignant tumors. There was a statistically significant improvement in SNOT‐22 score from baseline to 2 years for patients with both malignant tumors (37.0, 95% confidence Interval [CI] 32.0–42.1 at baseline; 26.5 95% CI 20.8–32.2 at 2 years; P < 0.001) and benign tumors (26.5, 95% CI 21.4–30.4 at baseline; 12.9 95% CI 7.6–18.2 at 2 years; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In contrast to previously reported series, in this cohort endoscopic resection of sinonasal tumors appears to be followed by an improvement in QoL, which is sustained over a 2‐year period.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 128:789–793, 2018
Soil Sealing: Quantifying Impacts on Soil Functions by a Geospatial Decision Support System
Authors: Piero Manna , Angelo Basile , Antonello Bonfante , Amedeo D'Antonio , Carlo De Michele , Michela Iamarino , Giuliano Langella , Florindo Mileti Antonio , Paolo Pileri , Simona Vingiani , Fabio Terribile
Published: September 2017

Soil sealing is considered among the most dangerous of land degradation processes on global, European and national scales. Despite important policy documents aiming to mitigate this soil threat, it currently shows no signs of abating, and current efforts often do not result in appropriate implementation of soil sealing mitigation in spatial planning, which represents the subject area governing soil sealing. In this paper, we show a spatial decision support system – based on a Geospatial Cyberinfrastructure – with the aim of applying it as an operational instrument aiming towards soil sealing mitigation. The system has the ambition to impact on those who take decision over soil sealing; typically, these are not agriculture experts but rather spatial planners.

This tool, focusing on mitigating such crucial land degradation, allows the users – via the Web – to produce ‘what‐if’ land planning scenarios thanks to the ‘on‐the‐fly’ modelling engines. Therefore, integrated geospatial quantitative data and procedures may be directly and freely used by planners.

The tool has been applied to and tested in an area in the South of Italy. Results from two applications are reported: one addressing municipal planning and the other on a more detailed spatial scale. Furthermore, results include quantification of rural fragmentation, loss of soil ecosystem services and an estimate of soil sealing evolution over time.

The tool was developed with the help of end users and indirectly explores a change of paradigm where soil science and landscape/urban planning work together to provide operational instruments that may be adopted by local communities in addressing soil sealing issues with a proactive approach. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMDAR antibody encephalitis and fluctuating catatonia
Authors: Kar Nilamadhab , Kumar Manoj T , Barreto Socorro
Published: September 2017

N‐Methyl D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibody encephalitis has varied presentations and may often be seen in psychiatry because of a range of associated psychiatric manifestations. Here, the authors present a case of prolonged catatonia that occurred in episodes and continued for months before being successfully diagnosed as a cause of NMDAR antibody encephalitis.
Synthesis of amphiphilic homopolymers and their self‐assembly into acid‐responsive polymeric micelles
Authors: Noh Hyeongju , Kim Ho‐Joong , Yang Si Kyung
Published: September 2017

This contribution presents a strategy for preparing amphiphilic homopolymers as building blocks for self‐assembly into supramolecular nanostructures. The synthesis begins with norbornene monomers containing oligoethylene glycols on the side chains. Ring‐opening metathesis polymerization of the monomers and subsequent dihydroxylation afford water‐soluble dihydroxylated poly(norbornene)s (PNBs). Amphiphilic modifications of the hydrophilic PNBs can be achieved by reacting 1,2‐diols on the backbones with hydrophobic dodecanals to form acetal linkages. The self‐assembly of the resulting amphiphilic PNB homopolymers affords polymeric micelles whose morphologies can be tuned by breaking the acetal linkages under acidic conditions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3804–3808