bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidetector computed tomography to detect ingested press‐through packages: utility of multiplanar reconstruction imaging in the emergency department
Authors: Takeda Munekazu , Yaguchi Arino , Harada Tomoyuki , Gotoh Taijirou , Namiki Mizuho
Published: November 2014

Case

We investigated the usefulness of multidetector computed tomography during examination in the emergency department to detect the location of press‐through packages that had been inadvertently swallowed. In three patients, four press‐through packages were detected on multi‐planar reconstruction of multidetector computed tomography images, with three lodged in the esophagus and one in the stomach.

Outcome

The multidetector computed tomography detection rate of press‐through packages was 100% in patients who realized they had swallowed the packages by mistake. After diagnosis, press‐through packages in the esophagus were immediately removed endoscopically.

Conclusion

There are few reports on the usefulness of multi‐planar reconstruction images by multidetector computed tomography during examinations in the emergency department for the diagnosis of foreign bodies in patients who have mistakenly swallowed press‐through packages. Detecting the location of the packages provided useful information regarding the strategy for their removal. Therefore, proactive multidetector computed tomography use in the emergency department could be beneficial for patients who have inadvertently swallowed press‐through packages.
MnTaO2N: Polar LiNbO3‐type Oxynitride with a Helical Spin Order
Authors: Tassel Cédric , Kuno Yoshinori , Goto Yoshihiro , Yamamoto Takafumi , Brown Craig M. , Hester James , Fujita Koji , Higashi Masanobu , Abe Ryu , Tanaka Katsuhisa , Kobayashi Yoji , Kageyama Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

The synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of a polar and magnetic oxynitride MnTaO2N are reported. High‐pressure synthesis at 6 GPa and 1400 °C allows for the stabilization of a high‐density structure containing middle‐to‐late transition metals. Synchrotron X‐ray and neutron diffraction studies revealed that MnTaO2N adopts the LiNbO3‐type structure, with a random distribution of O2− and N3− anions. MnTaO2N with an “orbital‐inactive” Mn2+ ion (d5; S=5/2) exhibits a nontrivial helical spin order at 25 K with a propagation vector of [0,0,δ] (δ≈0.3), which is different from the conventional G‐type order observed in other orbital‐inactive perovskite oxides and LiNbO3‐type oxides. This result suggests the presence of strong frustration because of the heavily tilted MnO4N2 octahedral network combined with the mixed O2−/N3− species that results in a distribution of (super)‐superexchange interactions.
Total Synthesis of Indole Alkaloid Alsmaphorazine D
Authors: Zhu Chenlong , Liu Zhaobo , Chen Guanyu , Zhang Kai , Ding Hanfeng
Published: November 2014

A concise total synthesis of rac‐alsmaphorazine D has been described for the first time. The efficient synthetic strategy features four key transformations: 1) a catalytic intramolecular oxidative cyclization for the δ‐lactamindole backbone; 2) an oxidative cyclic aminal formation for the hexahydropyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyrrole framework; 3) a transannular radical cyclization for the construction of the diazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane structure; and 4) a one‐pot desilylation/double epimerization reaction that affirms the relative stereochemistry.
Recruitment of SH‐Containing Peptides to Lipid and Biological Membranes through the Use of a Palmitic Acid Functionalized with a Maleimide Group
Authors: Haralampiev Ivan , Mertens Monique , Schwarzer Roland , Herrmann Andreas , Volkmer Rudolf , Wessig Pablo , Müller Peter
Published: November 2014

This study presents a novel and easily applicable approach to recruit sulfhydryl‐containing biomolecules to membranes by using a palmitic acid which is functionalized with a maleimide group. Notably, this strategy can also be employed with preformed (biological) membranes. The applicability of the assay is demonstrated by characterizing the binding of a Rhodamine‐labeled peptide to lipid and cellular membranes using methods of fluorescence spectroscopy, lifetime measurement, and microscopy. Our approach offers new possibilities for preparing biologically active liposomes and manipulating living cells.
Exergy analysis of NGL recovery plant using a hybrid ACOR‐BP neural network modeling: a case study
Authors: Safarvand Danial , Aliazdeh Mostafa , Samipour Giri Mohammad , Jafarnejad Mahtab
Published: November 2014

The major objective of the study is to make exergy analysis of natural gas liquid (NGL) process more understandable by coupling it with the use of an artificial neural network modeling. The presented method permits to provide an energy diagnosis of the process under a wide range of operating conditions. As a case study, Siri Island NGL Recovery in Iran is considered. The Aspen Plus process simulator linked with MATLAB Software was used to obtain thermodynamic properties of the process streams and to perform exergy balances. The results are validated with industrial data. The exergy destruction and exergetic efficiency for the main system components and for the entire system were calculated. Major sources of irreversibility in the process are identified, and the best conditions for process improvement are presented. The simulation results reveal that the exergetic losses of the separation towers, heating/cooling equipment, and compression/expansion section obtain the highest rank among the other components of the plant. The results show that the overall exergetic efficiency of the system is about 61%. After proposing new operational conditions, another exergetic analysis was made that caused a decrease of 6% in the exergetic losses of the entire system.

Then, the recorded and calculated data are used as inputs for the neural network. The results show that ACOR is highly effective to optimize the performance of the neural networks to predict overall exergy efficiency. This method was compared with other current methods, and the results indicated that the integrated n Ant Colony Optimization‐Back Propagation (ACOR‐BP) provides the least error on the testing dataset. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interferon Regulatory Factor 1 Marks Activated Genes and Can Induce Target Gene Expression in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Shi Lihua , Song Li , Ephrem Elshaddai , Petri Michelle , Sullivan Kathleen E.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF‐1) mediates both induction of interferons (IFNs) and responses to type I IFNs. It has been implicated as a critical mediator of inflammation in murine lupus models. In a previous study of chromatin modifications in monocytes from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), IRF‐1 was implicated as being associated with increased histone acetylation in this disease. The present study was undertaken to directly investigate IRF‐1 binding sites on chromatin.

Methods

Cells from 9 female SLE patients and 7 female controls were examined. Monocytes were purified from peripheral blood and subjected to library preparation using a validated antibody to IRF‐1. IRF‐1 binding sites on chromatin were identified by chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing. The effect of IRF‐1 on target gene expression was confirmed using an overexpression system in cell lines, and coimmunoprecipitation was used to identify protein interactions.

Results

IRF‐1 binding around transcribed regions was increased in SLE patient monocytes, but histone modifications at potential IRF‐1 binding sites without detectable IRF‐1 binding were increased as well. Overexpression of IRF‐1 was sufficient to drive transcription of target genes. IRF‐1 overexpression was also able to alter histone modifications at a focus set of target genes, and treatment with an IRF‐1 inhibitor reduced both expression and histone modifications at target genes. IRF‐1 was found to interact with a select set of histone‐modifying enzymes and other transcription factors.

Conclusion

IRF‐1 is an important signaling protein in the interferon pathway. It not only activates gene expression as a transcription factor, but may perpetuate disease by leading to a dysregulated epigenome.
Bcl‐2 Antagonists Kill Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells From Lupus‐Prone Mice and Dampen Interferon‐α Production
Authors: Zhan Yifan , Carrington Emma M. , Ko Hyun‐Ja , Vikstrom Ingela B. , Oon Shereen , Zhang Jian‐Guo , Vremec David , Brady Jamie L. , Bouillet Philippe , Wu Li , Huang David C. S. , Wicks Ian P. , Morand Eric F. , Strasser Andreas , Lew Andrew M.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Interferon‐α (IFNα)–producing plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). IFNα‐related genes are highlighted among SLE susceptibility alleles and are characteristically expressed in the blood of patients with SLE, while in mouse models of lupus, PDC numbers and IFNα production are increased. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of inhibitors that selectively target different antiapoptotic molecules on the survival of PDCs.

Methods

PDC numbers, in vitro survival, and expression of antiapoptotic molecules were evaluated in lupus‐prone (NZB × NZW)F1 (NZB/NZW) mice. The impact of Bcl‐2 antagonists and glucocorticoids on PDCs was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. IFNα production by NZB/NZW mice was evaluated before and after treatment with Bcl‐2 antagonists.

Results

PDCs, but not lymphoid tissue–resident conventional DCs, largely relied on the antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐2 for survival. The enlarged PDC compartment in NZB/NZW mice was associated with selectively prolonged survival and increased Bcl‐2 transcription. Functionally, this resulted in enhanced production of IFNα. Bcl‐2 inhibitors selectively killed mouse and human PDCs, including PDCs from SLE patients, but not conventional DCs, dampened IFNα production by PDCs, and synergized with glucocorticoids to kill activated PDCs.

Conclusion

Enhanced PDC survival is a likely contributing factor to enhanced IFNα production by lupus PDCs. Bcl‐2 antagonists potently and selectively kill PDCs and reduce IFNα production. Thus, we believe that they are attractive candidates for treating PDC‐associated diseases.
Malondialdehyde‐Acetaldehyde Adducts and Anti–Malondialdehyde‐Acetaldehyde Antibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Thiele Geoffrey M. , Duryee Michael J. , Anderson Daniel R. , Klassen Lynell W. , Mohring Stephen M. , Young Kathleen A. , Benissan‐Messan Dathe , Sayles Harlan , Dusad Anand , Hunter Carlos D. , Sokolove Jeremy , Robinson William H. , O'Dell James R. , Nicholas Anthony P. , Tuma Dean J. , Mikuls Ted R.
Published: November 2014

Objective

Malondialdehyde‐acetaldehyde (MAA) adducts are a product of oxidative stress associated with tolerance loss in several disease states. This study was undertaken to investigate the presence of MAA adducts and circulating anti‐MAA antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Synovial tissue from patients with RA and patients with osteoarthritis (OA) were examined for the presence of MAA‐modified and citrullinated proteins. Anti‐MAA antibody isotypes were measured in RA patients (n = 1,720) and healthy controls (n = 80) by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Antigen‐specific anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) were measured in RA patients using a multiplex antigen array. Anti‐MAA isotype concentrations were compared in a subset of RA patients (n = 80) and matched healthy controls (n = 80). Associations of anti‐MAA antibody isotypes with disease characteristics, including ACPA positivity, were examined in all RA patients.

Results

Expression of MAA adducts was increased in RA synovial tissue compared to OA synovial tissue, and colocalization with citrullinated proteins was found. Increased levels of anti‐MAA antibody isotypes were observed in RA patients compared to controls (P < 0.001). Among RA patients, anti‐MAA antibody isotypes were associated with seropositivity for ACPAs and rheumatoid factor (P < 0.001) in addition to select measures of disease activity. Higher anti‐MAA antibody concentrations were associated with a greater number of positive antigen‐specific ACPA analytes (expressed at high titer) (P < 0.001) and a higher ACPA score (P < 0.001), independent of other covariates.

Conclusion

MAA adduct formation is increased in RA and appears to result in robust antibody responses that are strongly associated with ACPAs. These results support speculation that MAA formation may be a cofactor that drives tolerance loss, resulting in the autoimmune responses characteristic of RA.
Acid/Base‐Triggered Switching of Circularly Polarized Luminescence and Electronic Circular Dichroism in Organic and Organometallic Helicenes
Authors: Saleh Nidal , Moore Barry , Srebro Monika , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Toupet Loïc , Williams J. A. Gareth , Roussel Christian , Deol Kirandeep K. , Muller Gilles , Autschbach Jochen , Crassous Jeanne
Published: November 2014

Electronic circular dichroism and circularly polarized luminescence acid/base switching activity has been demonstrated in helicene‐bipyridine proligand 1 a and in its “rollover” cycloplatinated derivative 2 a. Whereas proligand 1 a displays a strong bathochromic shift (>160 nm) of the nonpolarized and circularly polarized luminescence upon protonation, complex 2 a displays slightly stronger emission. This strikingly different behavior between singlet emission in the organic helicene and triplet emission in the organometallic derivative has been rationalized by using quantum‐chemical calculations. The very large bathochromic shift of the emission observed upon protonation of azahelicene‐bipyridine 1 a has been attributed to the decrease in aromaticity (promoting a charge‐transfer‐type transition rather than a π–π* transition) as well as an increase in the HOMO–LUMO character of the transition and stabilization of the LUMO level upon protonation.
The Rate and Shape of Change in Binge Eating Episodes and Weight: An Effectiveness Trial of Emotionally Focused Group Therapy for Binge‐Eating Disorder
Authors: Compare Angelo , Tasca Giorgio A.
Published: November 2014

Objective

This study investigated the phases of change and the relationship between binge eating (BE) episodes and weight across 20 weeks of emotionally focused group therapy (EFGT) and combined therapy (CT) of EFGT plus dietary counselling for BE disorder.

Methods

We used a non‐randomized observational study design that included 118 obese adult patients with BE disorder who were treated by manualized therapy protocols. Participants were assigned to treatment condition (EFGT or CT) based on consensus among clinicians. Participants were assessed weekly during the 20 weeks of therapy for weight and BE episodes and at pre‐treatment and 6 months post‐treatment.

Results

Binge eating episodes and weight significantly declined during EFGT and CT. Compared with EFGT, CT resulted in more rapid weight loss across weeks of therapy. BE episodes and weight significantly covaried, and their positive association increased as sessions progressed. Change in BE episodes and weight during treatment was best modelled by a cubic growth curve showing a slow rate of change in early sessions, a faster rate of change in middle sessions and a slower rate of change in late sessions. This cubic modelling of change was associated with better outcomes 6 months post‐treatment.

Conclusion

Cubic modelling of change supported a three‐stage model of EFGT and CT, and the cubic trajectory was associated with better outcomes at follow‐up. The addition of dietary counselling to EFGT resulted in earlier response to treatment in terms of BE episodes and weight among those in the CT condition. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Decline in binge eating (BE) episodes is related to decline in weight, and this relationship was greater towards the end of treatment.

Emotionally focused group therapy plus dietary counselling that targets both affect regulation and nutritional problems resulted in faster rate of response early in treatment both in terms of BE episodes and weight.

Combined emotionally focused group therapy and dietary counselling may provide clinicians with an additional approach to treating BE disorder.
Study on cognitive DF relaying cooperation with the mutual interference between primary and secondary users over Nakagami‐m fading channels
Authors: Jia Xiangdong , Deng Pengfei , Yang Longxiang , Zhu Hongbo
Published: November 2014

In this paper, the cognitive relay cooperation (CRC) wireless communication systems are investigated over Nakagami‐m fading channels. The decode‐and‐forward (DF) relay is employed to assist the communications between cognitive source and destination. Especially, to achieve full diversity order, we consider the case in which there is a direct path between cognitive source and destination. Besides the interference at primary users (PUs) created by secondary users (SUs), the interference at SUs created by PUs is also considered. For the interested CRC systems, we first achieve the exact expression for the CDF of the equivalent end‐to‐end signal‐to‐interference ratio (SIR) of CRC systems. Then, with the exact CDF, the exact average symbol error ratio (SER) and outage performance of CRC systems are achieved. The derivation is of significance, by which we can obtain a detailed knowledge about CRC systems. Though a single integral included in the derivation, it can be calculated numerically by employing some mathematical tools such as Matlab. At the same time, to obtain the insight and highlight the effect of system parameters on the considered CRC systems, by using the high SIR approximation, we obtain the asymptotic closed‐form expression of CDF as well as the ones of average SER and outage probability. From the asymptotic results, we can find the main factors that dominate the performance of CRC systems. The presented simulation results for outage probability and average SER show the derivations and simulations are in agreement. Moreover, in high SIR the achieved asymptotic results match well the exact ones. As a result, in high SIR we can employ the asymptotic closed‐form solutions to evaluate the exact performance of CRC systems. This can reduce greatly the implementation complexity. Besides this, the simulations also show that the diversity order is dominated by the fading severities of the secondary systems, i.e. the diversity order be proportional to the summation of the minimum fading severity between the two hops and that of the direct link. In contrast, the parameters of the primary systems only affect the coding gain, not the diversity gain. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UFLC method development and validation of a novel triethylamine containing thiophene S006‐830 ‐ an antitubercular molecule and its application to pharmacokinetic and bioavailability studies in SD rats
Authors: Singh Yeshwant , Hidau Mahendra Kumar , Misra Anamika , Kushwaha H.N. , Tiwari Ashish , Sharma Ashok Kumar , Singh Shio Kumar
Published: November 2014

A sensitive and selective ultra fast liquid chromatography (UFLC) method has been developed and validated for the determination of a potent and novel antitubercular compound S006‐830 in Sprague Dawley (SD) rat plasma. Samples were extracted and processed by protein precipitation method using acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a Phenomenex, Luna C‐18 column (3μm, 100mm x 2mm i.d.) under isocratic condition. Detection was performed on UFLC‐NEXERA system (LC‐30AD, Shimadzu, Kyoto, Japan) with a degasser (DGU‐20A), auto‐injector (SIL‐30AC), fixed with a 100‐μL loop. Method was found sensitive and reproducible over a linearity range of 15.6‐2000 ng/mL. Recovery of S006‐830 and internal standard was found >90% for spiked matrix control and standard quality control plasma samples. This validated method was successfully applied to generate pharmacokinetic profile of S006‐830 in SD rats. Oral dose proportionality studies were conducted at 100, 50, 25 mg/Kg dose levels, while an IV study was conducted at 25 mg/Kg dose. There was dose dependent increase in AUC and Cmax indicating S006‐830 to exhibit linear pharmacokinetics. S006‐830 exhibited favorable bioavailability in the range of 45‐55%. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secretory IgA as a vaccine carrier for delivery of HIV antigen to M cells
Authors: Rochereau Nicolas , Pavot Vincent , Verrier Bernard , Ensinas Agathe , Genin Christian , Corthésy Blaise , Paul Stéphane
Published: November 2014

HIV transmission and spread in the host are based on the survival of the virus or infected cells present in mucosal secretions, and the virus' ability to cross the epithelial barrier and access immune target cells, which leads to systemic infection. Therefore, HIV‐specific immunity at mucosal sites is critical for control of infection. Although mucosal delivery would ensure the best onset of protective immunity, most candidate vaccines are administered through the parenteral route. Remarkably, secretory IgA (SIgA) interacts specifically with mucosal microfold (M) cells present in gut‐associated lymphoid tissues. Here we evaluate the feasibility of delivering chemically bound p24HIV antigen via SIgA into the intestinal mucosae in mice. After oral administration, p24–SIgA complexes are quickly delivered into the tissue and selectively captured by CX3CR1+ dendritic cells. Oral immunization with p24gag linked to SIgA (p24–SIgA) adjuvanted with E. coli heat labile enterotoxin (HLT) elicits both humoral and cellular immune responses against p24 at the systemic and mucosal levels and induces efficient protection against rectal challenge with a recombinant vaccinia virus encoding gag. This is the first study which underscores the remarkable potential of SIgA to serve as a vaccine carrier for an HIV antigen in mucosal administration targeting the gastrointestinal environment.
Bis(trimethylsilyl)selenide in the Selective Synthesis of β‐Hydroxy, β‐Mercapto, and β‐Amino Diorganyl Diselenides and Selenides Through Ring Opening of Strained Heterocycles
Authors: Tanini Damiano , Degl'Innocenti Alessandro , Capperucci Antonella
Published: November 2014

A novel approach to the synthesis of β‐substituted dialkyl diselenides and selenides is described through reaction of bis(trimethylsilyl)selenide with epoxides, thiiranes, and aziridines catalyzed by tetrabutylammonium fluoride. Selective formation of a wide variety of β‐hydroxy, β‐mercapto, and β‐amino diselenides and selenides is achieved by controlling the reaction conditions in the regioselective attack of the silyl selenide onto the ring‐strained heterocycles. All reactions occur in a highly regioselective and enantioconservative manner, affording the title compounds with good to high yields. Selenium‐77 NMR chemical shifts were measured to verify the selective formation of the β‐substituted diselenides and selenides.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of Self‐Assembling Squalene Conjugates of 3‐[(Pyrrol‐2‐yl)methylidene]‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐indol‐2‐one Anticancer Agents
Authors: Buchy Eric , Valetti Sabrina , Mura Simona , Mougin Julie , Troufflard Claire , Couvreur Patrick , Desmaële Didier
Published: November 2014

Squalenoyl conjugates of semaxanib and sunitinib, two potent antiangiogenic (pyrrolyl)methylidenyl‐substituted oxindole multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitors, were synthesized with a hemiaminal‐based pH‐sensitive linker. The prodrugs were prepared according to a three‐step sequence involving (i) N‐alkylation with chloromethoxy‐triisopropylsilane; (ii) desilylation; and (iii) acylation with trisnorsqualenic acid. These squalenoyl prodrugs were found to self‐assemble into nanoassemblies in aqueous media without the need for any surfactant. The nanosized aggregates were characterized by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, and appeared to be stable in water for several days, as determined by particle‐size measurement. In vitro biological studies showed that squalenoyl sunitinib nanoassemblies are notably cytotoxic against the human umbilical vein endothelial cell line (HUVEC), which is involved in the tumor vessel formation.
A Synthetic Route to 3‐(Heteroaryl)‐7‐hydroxycoumarins Designed for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Roubinet Benoît , Chevalier Arnaud , Renard Pierre‐Yves , Romieu Anthony
Published: November 2014

A straightforward method to synthesize 3‐(2‐benzimidazolyl)‐7‐hydroxycoumarins, based on the condensation reaction of 7‐acetoxy‐3‐formylcoumarin with various C‐ and/or N‐substituted ortho‐phenylenediamine derivatives is presented. This unusual approach proved particularly effective for introducing different hydrophilic groups (carboxylic or sulfonic acids or trimethylalkylammonium moieties) onto the heteroaryl scaffold, leading to cyan‐green emitting coumarins that were both water‐soluble and strongly fluorescent under physiological conditions. The further extension of this condensation reaction to bis(2‐aminophenyl)diselenide enabled the first synthesis of 3‐(2‐benzoselenazolyl)‐7‐hydroxycoumarin. The potential utility of these new 7‐hydroxycoumarins was demonstrated through the synthesis and spectroscopic and analyte‐responsive behavior of fluorogenic probes suitable for sensing biologically relevant thiols and urokinase, a protease that plays a key role in cancer invasion and metastasis.
Direct Arylation of Imidazo[1,5‐a]azines Through Ruthenium and Palladium Catalysis
Authors: Sustac Roman Daniela , Poiret Valentin , Pelletier Guillaume , Charette André B.
Published: November 2014

The regioselective RuII‐catalyzed direct ortho‐arylation of C‐3 aryl‐substituted imidazo[1,5‐a]azines with (hetero)aryl halides was investigated. The employment of RuII and PdII catalysts in the same flask resulted in two sequential and distinct C–H bond arylations, which allowed the rapid synthesis of highly conjugated compounds.
Determination of Ultratrace Thallium(I) by Anodic Stripping Voltammetry at Bismuth Film Electrodes Following Double Deposition and Stripping Steps
Authors: Rutyna Iwona , Korolczuk Mieczyslaw
Published: November 2014

The double deposition and stripping steps were proposed to increase the sensitivity in anodic stripping voltammetry of thallium(I). Two in situ plated bismuth film electrodes with drastically different surface areas were exploited for the measurements. Thallium was at first deposited at the electrode with a large surface area. As the deposition step at the large electrode was finished, the electrode was moved at a short distance to the small one. The thallium stripped from the large electrode was then accumulated at the second electrode. Taking into account the small volume of space between the electrodes, the concentration of Tl(I) between the electrodes was drastically higher than that in the bulk solution. The deposition step at the second electrode was performed from solution with a higher concentration of Tl(I) therefore the detection limit was lowered. The calibration graph was linear from 5×10−11 to 5×10−9 mol L−1 following deposition time of 300 s at the first and the second electrode.
Usage of thermophilic cyanobacterial biomass for bioethanol production
Authors: Karatay Sevgi Ertuğrul
Published: November 2014

Although the usage of microalgae biomass as a feedstock for bioethanol production has been extensively studied, very little attention has been given to the usage of cyanobacterial biomass for bioethanol production. In this study, a thermophilic cyanobacterial strain namelyPhormidiumsp. was used for producing bioethanol. Some important parameters for bioethanol production were optimized. When the initial sugar concentration was 8.69 at 40 g L−1cyanobacteria loading,Pichia stipitisused 31.5% of the sugar and produced 1.64 g L−1ethanol andSaccharomyces cerevisiaeused 34.6% of the sugar and produced 1.97 g L−1ethanol at the end of 72 h. The highest bioethanol concentration was obtained as 2.32 g L−1forS. cerevisiaeand 1.7 g L−1forP. stipitisat 24 h of incubation time and substrate concentration of 40 g L−1cyanobacterial biomass at pH 5. This study demonstrated that the biomass of a thermophilic cyanobacteria is a promising feedstock for bioethanol production. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 903–907, 2015
Reduction of dissolved organic matter in secondary municipal effluents by enhanced coagulation
Authors: Xue Shuang , Zhao Qingliang , Wei Liangliang , Ma Xiping , Wen Yang , Zhang Zhaohong
Published: November 2014

Jar test experiments were performed to investigate the reductions of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in secondary municipal effluents by coagulation, as well as the effect of coagulation on the structural and functional properties of DOM fractions. The reductions of 9–58% and 17–71% in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and the removals of 30–75% and 30–83% in absorbance of ultraviolet light at 254 nm (UV‐254) were obtained by coagulation of two secondary municipal effluents, respectively. Moreover, the order of DOC and UV‐254 removals by coagulation was pH 5 > pH 6 > unadjusted pH at all coagulant dosages. The reductions of the bulk fluorescent materials by coagulation were lower than those of UV‐254 absorbing compounds. Among four types of fluorophores, aromatic protein‐like fluorophores were preferentially removed by coagulation. The coagulation treatability of hydrophobic acid (HPO‐A) was the highest and that of hydrophilic fraction (HPI) was the lowest, among five DOM fractions. In addition, the value of specific ultraviolet light absorbance for each DOM fraction decreased significantly after coagulation. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectra revealed that aromatics were effectively removed by coagulation while coagulation seemed to be inefficient in removing amide‐2 functional groups and those hydrocarbons exhibiting absorbance characters at 2950–2850 cm−1. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2014 34: 751–760, 2015
Developing technology introduction strategies based on visualized scenario analysis: Application in energy systems design
Authors: Chen I‐Ching , Kikuchi Yasunori , Fukushima Yasuhiro , Sugiyama Hirokazu , Hirao Masahiko
Published: November 2014

Management of emerging technologies may play a significant role in the advancement towards sustainable development. While the development of consistent management policies requires inputs from a wide spectrum of specialists and other stakeholders, current platforms for facilitating their participation are insufficient. In this study, we present a framework for a visualized scenario analysis that comprehensively assesses combinations of multiple technologies. This framework (1) helps our understanding of scenario performance and behaviors of technology‐introduction, (2) identifies the relationships and trade‐offs based on evaluation indices, and (3) allows for visualization of various technology‐introduction scenarios accounting for time frame. The applicability of this methodology is demonstrated using case studies that evaluate scenario performances and behaviors when implementing various power generation technologies in the Japanese electricity supply system. Different scenarios (e.g., renewable energy‐based power generation, operation choice of nuclear power) are visualized to assist stakeholders with evaluation of the trade‐offs. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 832–840, 2015
Using Cybersecurity Metrics in Utilities
Authors: Bartol Nadya
Published: November 2014

For years, cybersecurity practitioners have tried and failed to measure cybersecurity effectiveness.
Natural Gas Matters: The Shale Boom, Captive Supply, and the “Super Build”
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: November 2014

The shale gas phenomenon, and particularly the role of the Northeast in the evolution of that phenomenon, has caused the natural gas industry to need an unprecedented ability to deal with difficult‐to‐predict, rapidly changing market dynamics.
Innocent Fun or “Microslavery”?
Authors: Harvey Hayden , Havard Molly , Magnus David , Cho Mildred K. , Riedel‐Kruse Ingmar H.
Published: November 2014

In 2011, Ingmar Riedel‐Kruse's bioengineering laboratory at Stanford University publicized an application that uses paramecia for what the researchers termed “biotic games.” These games make use of living organisms, computer programs, and lab equipment to implement games like Pong, Pac‐man, and soccer. Gamesand related activities are often considered nonserious or trivial, whereas life, biological systems, and science are treated very seriously in moral analysis and public perception. The manipulation of living matter frequently engenders at least some controversy in the marketplace of ideas, and using living things in games is no exception. Some of the objections lodged against biotic games have appeared in the ethics literature on similar topics; however, the addition of an entertainment element introduces some objections distinct from those about similar cases, as the online comments vividly illustrate. We aim to explore and address the objections in this paper, using the comments to organize and launch the discussion. In scientific work, there is typically a presumption of some prospect of translation and application of generated knowledge for public benefit. In the case of biotic games, these applications are not self‐evident. Because of this, a serious analysis of the justifications, limitations, and features of biotic games is warranted. To this end, we outline key ethical limits that ought to be placed on these activities as well as the obligations that these activities generate for researchers, other professionals, and lay people who design, implement, use, and play them.
The Ethics of Synthetic Biology: Next Steps and Prior Questions
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E. , Gusmano Michael K. , Murray Thomas H.
Published: November 2014

A majority opinion seems to have emerged in scholarly analysis of the assortment of technologies that have been given the label “synthetic biology.” According to this view, society should allow the technology to proceed and even provide it some financial support, while monitor­ing its progress and attempting to ensure that the development leads to good outcomes. The near‐consensus is captured by the U.S. Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues in its report New Directions: The Ethics of Synthetic Biology and Emerging Technologies, which arguably marked the end of a preliminary round of analysis about the ethical and policy questions raised by synthetic bi­ology. Like a number of other, earlier documents issued by various groups around the world, the re­port called attention to questions about how the technology will be used; whether it might be mis­used; what sorts of accidents might happen along the way; the economic, environmental, and social impacts of the eventual applications; whether the very idea of “synthetic biology” should be trou­bling; and how the debate over all of these ques­tions will be conducted. Also like most similar documents, however, while it called for careful monitoring and oversight of technology, it did not recommend any significant new constraints on its development and use. The commission's stance was that it would be “imprudent either to declare a moratorium on synthetic biology until all risks can be determined and mitigated, or to simply ‘let science rip,’ regardless of the likely risks.”

In this report, we will take stock of the current consensus, comment on some of the major points of disagreement, and identify the next steps for the debate. In part I, we offer a brief overview of the research and applications commonly grouped together under the heading of synthetic biology, partly in order to set the stage for the rest of the discussion and partly because we want to highlight some conceptual problems that attend the very la­bel given this field. In parts II, III, and IV, we take up, respectively, three broad classes of concerns that arise in the context of synthetic biology: con­cerns about the intrinsic or inherent value of do­ing synthetic biology, concerns about the concrete harms and benefits of doing synthetic biology, and concerns about justice. Addressing these concerns requires a method for bringing the public's values to bear on policy‐making concerning emerging biotechnologies; in part V, we discuss the chal­lenges in developing such a method.
The Precautionary Attitude: Asking Preliminary Questions
Authors: Wolff Jonathan
Published: November 2014

Innovation in basic science is often a cause for won­der and excitement. Those associated with a new development are quick to point out the anticipated benefits: a cure for cancer or dementia, an end to unsafe water or hunger. These advocates are slower to draw at­tention to the possible costs, which may become known only much later. It is always hard to have an accurate overview, as it is almost impossible to predict the total effects of the widespread adoption of any new technology and, especially, its longer‐term or cumulative effects, as as­bestos and CFCs demonstrate. For this reason, some policy‐makers or members of the public hope that we can apply “the precautionary principle” to innovation. Unfortunately, if one is looking for a principle that can guide action, then, strictly speaking, there is no pre­cautionary principle. One might better speak of a “pre­cautionary approach,” although even this needs to be unpacked.
Governing in the Context of Uncertainty
Authors: Calvert Jane
Published: November 2014

Kaebnick, Gusmano, and Murray tackle some important issues raised by the emerging field of synthetic biology. Many of these issues arise pre­cisely because synthetic biology is still emerging, making it hard, if not impossible, to predict how the technology will pan out. In the context of this uncertainty, Kaebnick, Gusmano, and Murray imply, we may have to change our familiar patterns of thinking and governing. It is this point that I elaborate on here. I argue that if we embrace the distinctive characteris­tics of emerging biotechnologies, we can shift away from attempts to analyze the risks and benefits of technologi­cal developments and toward discussions of the moti­vations and purposes that drive them in the first place. This perspective gives us a solid rationale for public and stakeholder engagement (or “democratic deliberation,” as Kaebnick et al. call it) and helps us address some of the concerns Kaebnick and colleagues raise about how this engagement should be organized.
The Existing Guidance for “Dual‐Use” Research
Authors: Gronvall Gigi Kwik
Published: November 2014

In considering how to weigh the risks and benefits of synthetic biology, Kaebnick, Gusmano, and Murray pose the question of whether there is scientific re­search that should not be funded or performed, or if there are potentially dangerous results that should not be wide­ly disseminated. Such questions, they propose, require a new set of rules and norms for knowledge generation—an “ethics of knowledge.” They identify two examples of research that might fall into a nonpermissible category, including “research that is aimed at producing and dis­seminating knowledge of . . . how to produce more dan­gerous forms of H5N1 and smallpox.” There are already rules and norms to guide the funding and generation of scientific knowledge, however, including research on in­fluenza and smallpox. Even if more rules and guidance were added to the practice of science, potentially prob­lematic, “dual‐use” research would still occur, and as a practical matter, it is unlikely that results from those stud­ies can be contained, particularly if the research is of wide interest.
Distinct functional and macrostructural brain changes in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Planetta Peggy J. , Kurani Ajay S. , Shukla Priyank , Prodoehl Janey , Corcos Daniel M. , Comella Cynthia L. , McFarland Nikolaus R. , Okun Michael S. , Vaillancourt David E.
Published: November 2014

Parkinson's disease (PD) and the parkinsonian variant of multiple system atrophy (MSAp) are neurodegenerative disorders that can be difficult to differentiate clinically. This study provides the first characterization of the patterns of task‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) changes across the whole brain in MSAp. We used fMRI during a precision grip force task and also performed voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) on T1‐weighted images in MSAp patients, PD patients, and healthy controls. All groups were matched on age, and the patient groups had comparable motor symptom durations and severities. There were three main findings. First, MSAp and PD had reduced fMRI activation in motor control areas, including the basal ganglia, thalamus, insula, primary sensorimotor and prefrontal cortices, and cerebellum compared with controls. Second, there were no activation differences among the disease groups in the basal ganglia, thalamus, insula, or primary sensorimotor cortices, but PD had more extensive activation deficits throughout the cerebrum compared with MSAp and controls. Third, VBM revealed reduced volume in the basal ganglia, middle and inferior cerebellar peduncles, pons, and throughout the cerebrum in MSAp compared with controls and PD, and additionally throughout the cerebellar cortex and vermis in MSAp compared with controls. Collectively, these results provide the first evidence that fMRI activation is abnormal in the basal ganglia, cerebellum, and cerebrum in MSAp, and that a key distinguishing feature between MSAp and PD is the extensive and widespread volume loss throughout the brain in MSAp. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1165–1179, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Type I BMP Receptor ACVR1/ALK2 is Required for Chondrogenesis During Development
Authors: Rigueur Diana , Brugger Sean , Anbarchian Teni , Kim Jong Kil , Lee YooJin , Lyons Karen M
Published: November 2014

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are crucial regulators of chondrogenesis. BMPs transduce their signals through three type I receptors: BMPR1A, BMPR1B, and ACVR1/ALK2. Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), a rare disorder characterized by progressive ossification of connective tissue, is caused by an activating mutation in Acvr1 (the gene that encodes ACVR1/ALK2). However, there are few developmental defects associated with FOP. Thus, the role of ACVR1 in chondrogenesis during development is unknown. Here we report the phenotype of mice lacking ACVR1 in cartilage. Acvr1CKO mice are viable but exhibit defects in the development of cranial and axial structures. Mutants exhibit a shortened cranial base, and cervical vertebrae are hypoplastic. Acvr1CKO adult mice develop progressive kyphosis. These morphological defects were associated with decreased levels of Smad1/5 and p38 activation, and with reduced rates of chondrocyte proliferation in vertebral cartilage. We also tested whether ACVR1 exerts coordinated functions with BMPR1A and BMPR1B through analysis of double mutants. Acvr1/Bmpr1a and Acvr1/Bmpr1b mutant mice exhibited generalized perinatal lethal chondrodysplasia that was much more severe than in any of the corresponding mutant strains. These findings demonstrate that ACVR1 is required for chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation, particularly in craniofacial and axial elements, but exerts coordinated functions with both BMPR1A and BMPR1B throughout the developing endochondral skeleton. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Carfilzomib associated thrombotic microangiopathy initially treated with therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Sullivan Matthew R. , Danilov Alexey V. , Lansigan Frederick , Dunbar Nancy M.
Published: November 2014

Drug associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a rare event causing thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic anemia, renal failure, and neurologic abnormalities. Here, we present a case of TMA that occurred during the first cycle of treatment with carfilzomib for relapsed multiple myeloma. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unexpected One‐pot Synthesis of Novel 2‐Aminopyrimidine‐4‐ones under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Kefayati Hassan , Mirfarhadi Seyyedeh Mina , Kazemi‐Rad Reyhaneh
Published: November 2014

One‐pot, three‐component condensation of guanidine, ethylbenzoylacetate and various aromatic aldehydes in the presence of NaHCO3 have been investigated by microwave irradiation. The aromatic aldehydes bearing electron‐withdrawing groups undergo condensation with guanidine and ethylbenzoyl‐acetate to afford ethyl‐2‐amino‐4‐aryl‐1,4‐dihydro‐6‐phenylpyrimidine‐5‐carboxylate derivatives via Biginelli reaction. However, reaction of the aromatic aldehydes having electron‐releasing groups with guanidine and ethylbenzoylacetate did not give the corresponding dihydropyrimidines. Instead, novel 2‐amino‐5‐benzoyl‐5,6‐dihydro‐6‐arylpyrimidine‐4(3H)‐ones were obtained via an unexpected mechanism.
In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Glycated Albumin Alters Macrophage Gene Expression Impairing ABCA1‐Mediated Cholesterol Efflux
Authors: Machado‐Lima Adriana , Iborra Rodrigo T. , Pinto Raphael S. , Castilho Gabriela , Sartori Camila H. , Oliveira Erika R. , Okuda Ligia S. , Nakandakare Edna R. , Giannella‐Neto Daniel , Machado Ubiratan F. , Corrêa‐Giannella Maria Lucia C. , Traldi Pietro , Porcu Simona , Roverso Marco , Lapolla Annunziata , Passarelli Marisa
Published: November 2014

Advanced glycation end products (AGE) are elevated in diabetes mellitus (DM) and predict the development of atherosclerosis. AGE‐albumin induces oxidative stress, which is linked to a reduction in ABCA‐1 and cholesterol efflux. We characterized the glycation level of human serum albumin (HSA) isolated from poorly controlled DM2 (n = 11) patients compared with that of control (C, n = 12) individuals and determined the mechanism by which DM2‐HSA can interfere in macrophage lipid accumulation. The HSA glycation level was analyzed by MALDI/MS. Macrophages were treated for 18 h with C‐ or DM2‐HSA to measure the 14C‐cholesterol efflux, the intracellular lipid accumulation and the cellular ABCA‐1 protein content. Agilent arrays (44000 probes) were used to analyze gene expression, and the differentially expressed genes were validated by real‐time RT‐PCR. An increased mean mass was observed in DM2‐HSA compared with C‐HSA, reflecting the condensation of at least 5 units of glucose. The cholesterol efflux mediated by apo AI, HDL3, and HDL2 was impaired in DM2‐HSA‐treated cells, which was related to greater intracellular lipid accumulation. DM2‐HSA decreased Abcg1 mRNA expression by 26%. Abca1 mRNA was unchanged, although the final ABCA‐1 protein content decreased. Compared with C‐HAS‐treated cells, NADPH oxidase 4 mRNA expression increased in cells after DM2‐HSA treatment. Stearoyl‐Coenzyme A desaturase 1, janus kinase 2, and low density lipoprotein receptor mRNAs were reduced by DM2‐HSA. The level of glycation that occurs in vivo in DM2‐HSA‐treated cells selectively alters macrophage gene expression, impairing cholesterol efflux and eliciting intracellular lipid accumulation, which contribute to atherogenesis, in individuals with DM2. J. Cell. Physiol. XXXX: XX–XX, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 1250–1257, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., A Wiley Company