bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dipteran parasitoid Exorista bombycis induces pro‐ and anti‐oxidative reactions in the silkworm Bombyx mori: Enzymatic and genetic analysis
Authors: Makwana Pooja , Pradeep Appukuttan Nair R. , Hungund Shambhavi P. , Ponnuvel Kangayam M. , Trivedy Kanika
Published: January 2017

Hymenopteran parasitoids inject various factors including polydnaviruses along with their eggs into their host insects that suppress host immunity reactions to the eggs and larvae. Less is known about the mechanisms evolved in dipteran parasitoids that suppress host immunity. Here we report that the dipteran, Exorista bombycis, parasitization leads to pro‐oxidative reactions and activation of anti‐oxidative enzymes in the silkworm Bombyx mori larva. We recorded increased activity of oxidase, superoxide dismutase, thioredoxin peroxidase, catalase, glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), and peroxidases in the hemolymph plasma, hemocytes, and fat body collected from B. mori after E. bombycis parasitization. Microarray and qPCR showed differential expression of genes encoding pro‐ and anti‐oxidant enzymes in the hemocytes. The significance of this work lies in increased understanding of dipteran parasitoid biology.
Disclosure of Child Physical Abuse and Perceived Adult Support among Swedish Adolescents
Authors: Jernbro Carolina , Otterman Gabriel , Lucas Steven , Tindberg Ylva , Janson Staffan
Published: January 2017

Compared to child sexual abuse (CSA), little is known about disclosure of child physical abuse (CPA). Enhancing the understanding of the characteristics of disclosure is necessary for improved child protection. The aim of the present study was to examine disclosure of CPA and perceived adult support using both quantitative and qualitative data from a survey of child maltreatment carried out among a nationally representative sample of Swedish adolescents (n = 3202). We found that adolescents who experienced any child maltreatment (CPA, emotional abuse, neglect and witnessing intimate partner violence) were less likely to be able to identify an adult confidant compared to those without a history of abuse. Among the adolescents who reported severe CPA, 52 per cent had disclosed the abuse and the most frequent recipient of disclosure was a peer or sibling. Eleven per cent had disclosed to professionals within school, child protective services or law enforcement. Lack of trust in adults appeared to be the most prominent reason for non‐disclosure. Several adolescents who had disclosed abuse to professionals perceived an ineffective response, primarily because of professionals' lack of a child perspective. Some respondents experienced supportive interventions, specifically from school social workers. These patterns showed close similarity to disclosure of CSA. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘Enhancing the understanding of the characteristics of disclosure is necessary for improved child protection’

Key Practitioner Messages

Many adolescents have experienced CPA and few seek the attention of professionals.

Adolescents who have experienced any child maltreatment tend to lack trust in adults.

Peers have a key role to play in facilitating early disclosure of abuse.

Professionals need to address the perception among adolescents who have experienced child maltreatment that child protection systems are not child centred.

Hands‐on, community‐based interventions that engage peers, parents and professionals are needed in order to address the under-reporting of CPA.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of the Essential Oil from Leaves and Flowers of Pulicaria incisa sub. candolleana (Family Asteraceae)
Authors: Shahat Esraa A. , Bakr Riham O. , Eldahshan Omayma A. , Ayoub Nahla A.
Published: January 2017

The composition of the essential oil isolated from leaves and flowers of Pulicaria incisa sub. candolleana E. Gamal‐Eldin, growing in Egypt, was analysed by GC and GC‐MS. Forty‐nine and 68 compounds were identified from the oils of the leaves and flowers accounting for 86.69 and 84.29%, respectively of the total detected constituents. Both leaves and flowers oils were characterized by the high content of carvotanacetone with 66.01, 50.87 and chrysanthenone 13.26, 24.3%, respectively. The cytotoxic activity of both essential oils was evaluated against hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HEPG‐2, using MTT assay and vinblastine as a reference drug. Leaf oil showed higher activity with IC50 11.4 μg/ml compared with 37.4 μg/ml for flower oil. The antimicrobial activity of both oils was evaluated using agar well diffusion method towards two representatives for each of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria as well as four representatives for fungi. The minimum inhibitory concentration of both essential oils against bacterial and fungal strains was obtained in the range of 0.49 – 15.63 μg/ml.
Orientation of the OmpF Porin in Planar Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Ionescu Sandra A. , Lee Sejeong , Housden Nicholas G. , Kaminska Renata , Kleanthous Colin , Bayley Hagan
Published: January 2017

The outer‐membrane protein OmpF is an abundant trimeric general diffusion porin that plays a central role in the transport of antibiotics and colicins across the outer membrane of E. coli. Individual OmpF trimers in planar lipid bilayers (PLBs) show one of two current–voltage asymmetries, thus implying that insertion occurs with either the periplasmic or the extracellular end first. A method for establishing the orientation of OmpF in PLB was developed, based on targeted covalent modification with membrane‐impermeant reagents of peripheral cysteine residues introduced near the periplasmic or the extracellular entrance. By correlating the results of the modification experiments with measurements of current asymmetry or the sidedness of binding of the antibiotic enrofloxacin, OmpF orientation could be quickly determined in subsequent experiments under a variety of conditions. Our work will allow the precise interpretation of past and future studies of antibiotic permeation and protein translocation through OmpF and related porins.
Collapsed membranes within pelvic cyst: What is the diagnosis?
Authors: Dehghan Manshadi Seyed Ali , Rezahosseini Omid , Saberi Sadegh , Salahshour Faeze , Mahdavi Izadi Shahrzad
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

Collapsed membranes and daughter cysts are pathognomonic for hydatid cysts on imaging. The comma‐shaped lesions, visible within the hydatid cyst in sagittal view of MRI, are collapsed membranes. Although primary hydatid cyst of pelvic cavity is rare, clinicians should remember to include hydatid cysts in differential diagnosis of pelvic cysts.
Severe tricuspid regurgitation due to valvular entrapment of an inferior vena cava stent
Authors: Hesterberg Kirstin , Babu Ashok , Frank Maria , Hogan Shea , Krantz Mori J.
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

Endovascular venous stenting is increasingly performed for a variety of conditions. Inferior vena cava stent migration has been reported up to 6 months after placement; stent migration 6 months after implantation is uncommon. To our knowledge, this is only the second reported case of late stent migration with valve entrapment .
Juvenile dermatomyositis in a 4‐year‐old Kenyan girl
Authors: Grijsen Marlous L. , Mchaile Deborah , Geut Inge , Olomi Raimos , Nwako Maitseo , Requena Luis , Howlett William P. , Mavura Daudi R. , Dekker Marieke C. J.
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) in Tanzania. It demonstrates that the characteristic cutaneous findings of JDM may easily be overlooked, especially on dark skin, and the difficulty of clinical management in resource‐constrained settings.
A forgotten nasogastric feeding tube that refuses to get out
Authors: Galanopoulos Michail , Tsigaridas Athanasios , Varytimiadis Lazaros , Papaefthymiou Apostolis , Kalampalikis Lazaros , Ladias Spyridon , Mantzaris Gerassimos J.
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

Nasogastric tubes (NGT) are extensively used and generally harmless, yet loop formation and malpositioning are often reported especially when using thin NGT for enteral feeding which placed blindly; therefore, diligent follow‐up of NGT is required with confirmation of right placement, changing it to PEG if long use of NGT needed.
Unamplified RNA Sensor for On‐Site Screening of Zika Virus Disease in a Limited Resource Setting
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Wu Jayne , Fikrig Erol , Wang Penghua , Chen Jiangang , Eda Shigetoshi , Terry Paul
Published: January 2017

Recent outbreaks of Zika virus have been declared a public health emergency of international concern. The diagnosis of Zika infection is based on a person's recent travel history, symptoms, and laboratory test results. However, the diagnosis of Zika infection may be delayed because symptoms are often mild and nondescript, and confirmatory laboratory tests are relatively time‐consuming and expensive. Given the lack of an effective vaccine against Zika virus, and a relatively short period of viremia, developing a rapid and sensitive means of detecting the Zika virus in serum is a public health priority. This work presents a novel RNA sensor, based on a sequence‐specific probe and AC electrokinetics‐enhanced capacitive sensing technology to directly capture and detect Zika virus RNA. This method allows detection and quantification of Zika virus RNA in only 30 seconds, with a low limit of detection (LOD) reaching 158.1 copies/μL. The sensor is also tested for its specificity, showing no false‐positive signals from other viruses. In addition, the biosensor is portable, inexpensive, and simple to use, without the need of signal amplification, which makes it ideal for field applications.
Chiral Assembly of AIE‐Active Achiral Molecules: An Odd Effect in Self‐Assembly
Authors: Anuradha  , La Duong Duc , Al Kobaisi Mohammad , Gupta Akhil , Bhosale Sheshanath V.
Published: January 2017

The induction of chirality in supramolecular structures through hierarchical self‐assembly of achiral compounds and the control of their handedness are closely related to the evolution of life and the chiral amplification found in nature. Herein, it is shown that the combination of achiral tetraphenylethylene, an aggregation‐induced emission (AIE)‐active luminophore bearing four alkyl chains with an odd or even number of carbon atoms via an amide linkage in the molecular structure allows the induction and control of supramolecular chirality in well‐defined helical superstructures by controlling the solvent composition and polarity. In particular, right‐handed supramolecular structures were produced for an even number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chains, whereas an odd number led to the assembly of left‐handed superstructures. The twisted superstructure was visualised by SEM, and circular dichroism was used to observe chirality in the assembly. These controlled assemblies of AIE‐active molecules are of potential practical value, such as templates for helical crystallisation, catalysis and formation of chiral mechanochromic luminescent superstructures.
Free‐Radical Carbocyanation of Olefins
Authors: Hassan Haitham , Pirenne Vincent , Wissing Maren , Khiar Chahinaz , Hussain Ashique , Robert Frédéric , Landais Yannick
Published: January 2017

The free‐radical three‐component carbocyanation of electron‐rich olefins was investigated with p‐tosyl cyanide as cyanide source. The scope and limitations of the process were established by varying the nature of the alkene and radical precursor. Carbocyanation of chiral allylsilanes was shown to occur with high diastereocontrol, leading to syn β‐silyl nitriles. The origin of the stereocontrol was rationalized by a Felkin–Anh‐type transition‐state model. Finally, a tin‐free carbocyanation process was also devised, based on the use of a new alkylsulfonyl cyanide incorporating both carbon fragments to be added across the olefinic π system.
Nitrogenated Azaphilone Derivatives through a Silver‐Catalysed Reaction of Imines from ortho‐Alkynylbenzaldehydes
Authors: Fernández Patricia , Fañanás Francisco J. , Rodríguez Félix
Published: January 2017

Nitrogenated azaphilones are interesting natural products with a wide range of applications. The structure of these compounds is characterized by the presence of an isoquinolinone framework. Here, we describe a new multicomponent silver‐catalysed reaction that allows the transformation of simple imines derived from ortho‐alkynylbenzaldehydes into complex nitrogenated azaphilone‐type molecules in a straightforward way. This atom‐economical process is high yielding, technically very simple and proceeds through a series of cascade processes that imply cycloisomerisation and formal cross‐coupling reactions. This conceptually new process formally involves the synchronised catalytic generation and selective coupling of a nucleophile (isoquinolinone) and an electrophile (isoquinolinium). Some interesting colour properties of the synthesized azaphilone‐type molecules are discussed.
Five more years! Not everything changes
Authors: Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: January 2017

Cancer remains a high‐impact journal whose relevance continues to grow as we introduce several novel features to adapt to our times and to the needs of our community of clinicians and scientists. The journal's team‐based effort has been and continues to be enhanced by an outstanding team of highly committed and qualified experts in the field.
Mixed‐Metal Tungsten Oxide Photoanode Materials Made by Pulsed‐Laser in Liquids Synthesis
Authors: Blumenfeld Carl M. , Lau Marcus , Gray Harry B. , Müller Astrid M.
Published: January 2017

Globally scalable sunlight‐driven devices that convert solar energy into storable fuels will require efficient light absorbers that are made of non‐precious elements. Suitable photoanode materials are yet to be discovered. Here we utilised the timesaving nature of pulsed‐laser‐in‐liquids synthesis and prepared a series of neat and mixed‐metal tungsten oxide photoanode materials to investigate the effect of ad‐metals on optical and photocurrent generation properties. We obtained sub‐μm‐sized materials with different colours from W, Al, Ta, or first‐row transition metal targets in water or aqueous ammonium metatungstate solutions. We observed metastable polymorphs of WO3 and tungsten oxides with varying degrees of oxygen deficiency. Pulsed‐laser in liquids synthesis of Ni in ammonium metatungstate solutions produce hollow spheres (with ≤6 % Ni with respect to W). Photocurrent generation in strong aqueous acid is highest in mixed‐metal tungsten oxide photoanode materials with around 5 % of iron or nickel.
Influence of Aggregation on the Structure and Fluorescent Properties of a Tetraphenylethylene Derivative: a Theoretical Study
Authors: Duan Ying‐Chen , Wu Yong , Jin Jun‐Ling , Gu Dong‐Mei , Geng Yun , Zhang Min , Su Zhong‐Min
Published: January 2017

The case that aggregation has a large influence on the structure and fluorescent properties of 5‐(4‐(1,2,2‐triphenylvinyl)phenyl)thiophene‐2‐carbaldehyde (P4TA) is investigated in detail herein by employing quantum mechanics and molecular mechanics. Besides the isolated molecule, the aggregated molecule in water and in the crystalline state was studied by focusing on the comparison of photoelectronic properties, including the geometrical and electronic structures at ground and excited states, emission and internal conversation properties. For the aggregation state, the intermolecular interaction was used to explain the difference in structure, emission color and intensity of different polymorphs. The noticeable contribution from low‐frequency region, corresponding to the four phenyl rings twisting vibration, to the Huang–Rhys factor and reorganization energy, as well as the possible potential energy surface crossing between S0 and S1 states for isolated molecules was considered as the reason of its aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) performance. Importantly, the aggregation process in water simulated at the same time helps us to have a deeper understanding of the AIE behavior of P4TA, which also provides another perspective to explore the AIE phenomenon in theory.
Crucial Role of Donor Density in the Performance of Oxynitride Perovskite LaTiO2N for Photocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Xiong Feng‐Qiang , Wan Lipeng , Li Yue , Thomas Tiju , DiSalvo Francis J. , Yang Minghui
Published: January 2017

LaTiO2N photocatalysts were prepared by thermal ammonolysis of flux‐synthesized La2Ti2O7 and La2TiO5, and were investigated for water oxidation. Though LaTiO2N derived from La2TiO5 appears defect‐free by UV/Vis/near‐IR and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, its performance is much lower than that of conventional La2Ti2O7‐derived LaTiO2N with defects. It is shown by Mott–Schottky analysis that La2TiO5‐derived LaTiO2N has significantly lower donor density; this can result in insufficient built‐in electric field for the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. The lower donor density is also consistent with the smaller difference between the Fermi level and the valence‐band maximum, which accounts for a lower oxidative power of the holes. In light of this discovery, the donor density was increased substantially by introducing anion vacancies through annealing in Ar. This resulted in improved performance. The CoOx‐assisted La2TiO5‐derived LaTiO2N annealed at 713 °C has a higher quantum efficiency (25 %) at 450 nm than high‐performance conventional CoOx/LaTiO2N (21 %).
Synthesis of Butyl Levulinate Based on α‐Angelica Lactone in the Presence of Easily Separable Heteropoly Acid Catalysts
Authors: Yi Xiaohu , Al‐Shaal Mohammad G. , Ciptonugroho Wirawan , Delidovich Irina , Wang Xiaohong , Palkovits Regina
Published: January 2017

A series of choline (Ch)‐exchanged heteropoly acids (HOCH2CH2N(CH3)3)xH(6−x)P2W18O62 [abbreviated as ChxH(6−x)P2W18O62, x=1–6] was synthesized and used as catalysts for the reaction of α‐angelica lactone (alpha‐AL) with n‐butanol to form butyl levulinate (BL). The solubility of ChxH(6−x)P2W18O62 in the reaction mixture was temperature dependent: The catalysts were soluble under the reaction conditions and precipitated upon cooling of the reaction mixture. This facilitated recovery of the catalysts from the liquid phase. Importantly, an increase of the Ch content caused a decrease of the catalyst solubility. Catalytic activity of ChxH(6−x)P2W18O62 for the reaction with n‐butanol appeared to be in good agreement with the concentration of Brønsted‐acidic sites. The results suggest that the reaction proceeded through formation of pseudo‐butyl levulinate as intermediate. Ch2H4P2W18O62 exhibited the best balance between catalytic activity and temperature‐dependent solubility. The yield of BL reached 79.4 % at full conversion of alpha‐AL at a moderate temperature of 75 °C in an open system. ChxH(6−x)P2W18O62 could be successfully reused five times without significant loss of activity.
High‐throughput precision measurement of subcellular localization in single cells
Authors: Burns Tyler J. , Frei Andreas P. , Gherardini Pier F. , Bava Felice A. , Batchelder Jake E. , Yoshiyasu Yuki , Yu Julie M. , Groziak Amanda R. , Kimmey Samuel C. , Gonzalez Veronica D. , Fantl Wendy J. , Nolan Garry P.
Published: January 2017

To quantify visual and spatial information in single cells with a throughput of thousands of cells per second, we developed Subcellular Localization Assay (SLA). This adaptation of Proximity Ligation Assay expands the capabilities of flow cytometry to include data relating to localization of proteins to and within organelles. We used SLA to detect the nuclear import of transcription factors across cell subsets in complex samples. We further measured intranuclear re‐localization of target proteins across the cell cycle and upon DNA damage induction. SLA combines multiple single‐cell methods to bring about a new dimension of inquiry and analysis in complex cell populations. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
The assessment and treatment of unhealthy exercise in adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A Delphi study to synthesize clinical knowledge
Authors: Noetel Melissa , Dawson Lisa , Hay Phillipa , Touyz Stephen
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to explore and synthesize expert clinical knowledge on defining and managing unhealthy exercise in adolescents with AN. The Delphi methodology was used. Clinicians (n = 25) considered experts in the treatment of AN in adolescents were recruited internationally to form the panel. The first round of the questionnaires was comprised of five open‐ended questions regarding defining, assessing, and treating unhealthy exercise in adolescents with AN. Statements were derived from this data using content analysis, and included as Likert‐based items in two subsequent rounds, in which panellists were required to rate their level of agreement for each item. All 25 respondents completed the three rounds of questionnaires. Consensus was achieved for 59.0% of the items included in the second and third round of questionnaires. Although consensus was not achieved, compulsive exercise was the preferred term for the panel when referring to unhealthy exercise in adolescents with AN. The panel clearly delineated features of unhealthy and healthy exercise, and endorsed a number of items considered important to assess for when evaluating exercise in this clinical population. A variety of treatment approaches and strategies reached consensus. Notably, for those who are medically stable and progressing toward recovery, the panel recommended initial exercise restriction practices and reintroducing healthy exercise behaviors, rather than exercise cessation practices. The current findings can serve as preliminary treatment guidelines. A unified approach to labeling and defining unhealthy exercise in the eating disorder literature and clinical settings is required to achieve further progress.
A case series of family‐based treatment for adolescents with atypical anorexia nervosa
Authors: Hughes Elizabeth K. , Le Grange Daniel , Court Andrew , Sawyer Susan M.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this case series was to examine engagement in and outcomes of family‐based treatment (FBT) for adolescents with DSM‐5 atypical AN, that is, adolescents who were not underweight at presentation. Consecutive referrals for FBT of adolescents with atypical AN to a specialist child and adolescent eating disorder program were examined. Engagement in treatment (i.e., dose of treatment, completion rate), and changes in psychological symptomatology (i.e., eating disorder symptoms, depressive symptoms, self‐esteem, obsessive compulsiveness), weight, and menstrual function were examined. The need for additional interventions (i.e., hospitalization and medication), and estimated remission rates were also examined. The sample comprised 42 adolescents aged 12–18 years (88% female). Engagement in FBT was high, with 83% completing at least half the treatment dose. There were significant decreases in eating disorder and depressive symptoms during FBT (p < .05) but no improvement in self‐esteem. There was no significant change in percent of median BMI for age and gender for the sample as a whole (105 vs. 106%, p = .128). However, adolescents who were not admitted to hospital prior to FBT gained some weight (M = 3.4 kg) while those who were admitted did not gain weight during FBT (M = 0.2 kg, p < .01). The overall remission rate ranged from 38 to 52% depending on the criteria applied. FBT appears to be an effective treatment for adolescents with atypical AN. However, more research is needed into systematic adaptations of FBT and other treatments that could improve overall remission rates.
Identifying suitable multifunctional restoration areas for Forest Landscape Restoration in Central Chile
Authors: Schulz Jennifer Jelena , Schröder Boris
Published: January 2017

Large‐scale deforestation has led to drastic alterations of landscapes worldwide, with serious declines of biodiversity and ecosystem functions, leading to impacts on humanity ranging from the local to the global scale. However, the provision of crucial ecosystem functions is not only determined by the extent, but also by the spatial configuration of forests within the landscape mosaic. An approach that aims to restore forest functions on a landscape scale is Forest Landscape Restoration, with the purpose to regain ecological integrity and support human well‐being. The landscape‐scale approach should enhance the contribution of site‐based restoration to larger‐scale processes and functional synergies. A fundamental challenge for Forest Landscape Restoration is therefore the identification of restoration areas within the landscape where multiple functions operating on different scales can be enhanced. Equally important is the task of identifying areas requiring restoration. Proposed strategies include the assessment of current, past, and reference landscape states. However, integrative planning approaches combining historical and functional perspectives on a landscape scale are little developed. In this paper, we demonstrate how forest restoration areas can be identified that account for historical forest patterns while simultaneously targeting multiple forest functions. We use a method developed for habitat suitability modeling based on recent historical forest occurrence and regeneration patterns from 1985 to 2008 in order to predict areas that are suitable for forest restoration (potential forest growth) as well as areas where forest potentially recovers by natural regeneration. For both, unsuitable areas are excluded by masking restoration constraints. Separately, we map potential forest functions and assess spatial synergies or “multifunctional hotspots” using spatial multi‐criteria analysis. To derive a scenario of potential restoration areas, predicted maps of restoration suitability and regeneration potential are separately combined with a map depicting the degree of multifunctionality. These maps are finally overlapped to identify multifunctional restoration and regeneration areas. These designated areas are then evaluated regarding their distribution on current land cover and recent historical deforestation areas. We test this approach for the dry forest landscape in Central Chile, an international biodiversity hotspot, which has undergone profound historical transformations and considerable deforestation in recent decades.
Development and Demonstration of a Novel Reversible SOFC System for Utility and Micro Grid Energy Storage
Authors: Mermelstein Joshua , Posdziech Oliver
Published: January 2017

Energy storage is a critical component to supply local energy generation for both grid and off‐grid connected facilities and communities, enabling localized grid independent energy secure power in cases of emergencies or unreliable traditional grid use. The high cost and energy security of importing fuel to islanded grids has led to a growing need to generate power onsite with alternative and renewable energy technologies while reducing facility costs of importing electrical power. However, utility grid operators are being faced with the challenges of intermittent and variability in energy production from renewables. Therefore, energy storage is crucial to balance micro and utility grids, improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and provide critical power in the event of power outages. There has been particular interest in reversible solid oxide fuel cells (RSOFCs) in the energy sector for electricity, energy storage, grid stabilization and improvement to power plant system efficiency due to favorable thermodynamic efficiencies of high temperature steam electrolysis. Boeing has been active in the development of a fully integrated, grid tied RSOFC system for micro grid and commercial utility energy storage using Sunfire fuel cell technology. In this system, excess grid energy or curtailed power generated by renewables is sent to the system operating in electrolysis mode to produce H2. The H2 is stored and then used in the system's fuel cell mode to provide supplemental power to the grid during peak hours or as needed. As part of this program, Boeing has developed a H2 storage and compression system, power distribution system, and master controller to interface with RSOFC subsystems. Sunfire developed a reversible solid oxide cell module with a power output of 50 kW in SOFC mode and 120 kW input in electrolysis mode producing 3.5 kg H2 hr−1. The system was demonstrated while connected to the local utility grid and operated in a microgrid test environment. This paper will discuss the development, integration, and demonstration of the RSOFC system.
Sexual activity among Nigerian women following successful obstetric fistula repair
Authors: Anzaku Stephen A. , Lengmang Sunday J. , Mikah Samaila , Shephard Steven N. , Edem Bassey E.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To evaluate post‐operative sexual activity among women who have undergone obstetric fistula repair.

Methods

The present descriptive cross‐sectional study recruited married women who had undergone successful obstetric fistula repair who were attending reunion activities at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria, between March 13 and March 15, 2014. Participants were interviewed regarding penetrative vaginal intercourse after surgery, and any changes in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, sexual satisfaction, and the presence of coital pain compared with before they experienced obstetric fistula.

Results

There were 102 patients who participated in interviews; 23 (22.5%) reported not being able to engage in penetrative vaginal intercourse and 12 (52%) of these patients ascribed this to a “tight” or “narrow” vagina. Compared with the pre‐fistula period, 63 (61.7%) patients reported reduced sexual desire, 57 (55.9%) reported lack of or inadequate lubrication during intercourse, 12 (11.8%) reported anorgasmia, and 60 (58.8%) reported reduced attainment of orgasm. Dyspareunia was reported by 48 (47.1%) patients; 43 (90%) experienced superficial or deep dyspareunia, and 5 (10%) experienced both. A lack of and lower sexual satisfaction were reported by 20 (19.6%) and 40 (39.2%) patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Following obstetric fistula repair, many women experienced difficulty engaging in penetrative vaginal intercourse and reported sexual dysfunction. Management of sexual dysfunction should be part of fistula rehabilitation programs.
Multinucleated giant cells in the implant bed of bone substitutes are foreign body giant cells—New insights into the material‐mediated healing process
Authors: Barbeck Mike , Booms Patrick , Unger Ronald , Hoffmann Verena , Sader Robert , Kirkpatrick Charles James , Ghanaati Shahram
Published: January 2017

In addition to macrophages, multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) are involved in the tissue reaction to a variety of biomaterials. Especially in the case of bone substitute materials it has been assumed that the MNGCs are osteoclasts, based on the chemical and physical similarity of many materials to the calcified matrix and the bony environment in which they are used. However, many studies indicate that these cells belong to the cell line of the foreign body giant cells (FBGCs), which are of “inflammatory origin”, although they have been shown to possess both a pro‐ and also anti‐inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, no information is available about their role in the tissue reaction to bone substitute materials. The present study was conducted to analyze the origin of MNGCs in the implant beds of a synthetic and a xenogeneic bone substitute and focused on the application of immunohistochemical methods. Two antibodies against integrin molecules specific for osteoclasts (β‐3 integrin) or FBGCs (β‐2 integrin) were used to distinguish both giant cell types. The results of the present study indicate that the MNGCs induced by both kinds of bone substitutes are FBGCs, as they express only β‐2 integrin in contrast to the osteoclasts outside of the immediate implantation areas, which only demonstrate β‐3 integrin expression. These data give new insight into the tissue reaction to both xenogeneic and synthetic bone substitutes. Based on this new knowledge further research concerning the proteomic profile of the FBGCs especially based on the different physicochemical properties of bone substitutes is necessary. This may show that specific characteristics of bone substitutes may exhibit a substantial influence on the regeneration process via the expression of anti‐inflammatory molecules by FBGCs. Based on this information it may be possible to formulate and choose bone substitutes that can guide the process of bone tissue regeneration on the molecular level. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1105–1111, 2017.
Collagen hydrogel scaffold promotes mesenchymal stem cell and endothelial cell coculture for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Nguyen Bao‐Ngoc B. , Moriarty Rebecca A. , Kamalitdinov Tim , Etheridge Julie M. , Fisher John P.
Published: January 2017

The generation of functional, vascularized tissues is a key challenge for the field of tissue engineering. Before clinical implantations of such tissue engineered bone constructs can succeed, tactics to promote neovascularization need to be strengthened. We have previously demonstrated that the tubular perfusion system (TPS) bioreactor is an effective culturing method to augment osteogenic differentiation and maintain viability of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC). Here, we devised a strategy to address the need for a functional microvasculature by designing an in vitro coculture system that simultaneously cultures osteogenic differentiating hMSCs with endothelial cells (ECs). We utilized the TPS bioreactor as a dynamic coculture environment, which we hypothesize will encourage prevascularization of endothelial cells and early formation of bone tissue and could aid in anastomosis of the graft with the host vasculature after patient implantation. To evaluate the effect of different natural scaffolds for this coculture system, the cells were encapsulated in alginate and/or collagen hydrogel scaffolds. We discovered the necessity of cell‐to‐cell proximity between the two cell types as well as preference for the natural cell binding capabilities of hydrogels like collagen. We discovered increased osteogenic and angiogenic potential as seen by amplified gene and protein expression of ALP, BMP‐2, VEGF, and PECAM. The TPS bioreactor further augmented these expressions, indicating a synergistic effect between coculture and applied shear stress. The development of this dynamic coculture platform for the prevascularization of engineered bone, emphasizing the importance of the construct microenvironments and will advance the clinical use of tissue engineered constructs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1123–1131, 2017.
Description of non‐covalent interactions in SCC‐DFTB methods
Authors: Miriyala Vijay Madhav , Řezáč Jan
Published: January 2017

We have analyzed the description of non‐covalent interactions in multiple variants of the self‐consistent charges density functional tight binding (SCC‐DFTB) method. While the description of London dispersion can be easily improved by empirical correction, hydrogen bonding poses a much more difficult problem. We have implemented an interaction energy decomposition scheme that allowed us to quantify the error at the level of first‐order electrostatic and polarization terms. Both are underestimated because of the monopole approximation used in SCC‐DFTB, with the latter being affected also by the use of minimal basis set. Among the methods tested, SCC‐DFTB with the empirical D3H4 corrections worked best. To make this correction compatible with the latest development in SCC‐DFTB, we have reparameterized it for use with third‐order SCC‐DFTB with the 3OB parameter set. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of an inorganic‐framework molecularly imprinted Fe‐doped TiO2 composite and its selective photo‐Fenton‐like degradation of acid orange II
Authors: Song Yanqun , Rong Chuan , Shang Jiaobo , Wang Yinghui , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yu Kefu
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

The heterogeneous photo‐Fenton‐like process is emerging as a promising treatment of dye‐containing wastewater because of its economic feasibility and high efficiency. However, it is still required to develop photo‐Fenton‐like catalysts with highly selective degradation ability and reusability.

RESULTS

Inorganic‐framework molecularly imprinted Fe‐doped TiO2 composites (MIP/Fe–TiO2) were successfully prepared by the sol–gel method, with acid orange II as the template and TiO2 as the matrix material. The photo‐Fenton‐like catalysts were characterized using FESEM, EDS, BET, X‐ray diffraction, FT‐IR spectroscopy and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. These methods revealed the well‐crystallized anatase phase and good nanometer‐level particle sizes. The adsorption property and photo‐Fenton‐like activity of the catalysts were also studied in single and binary systems, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with non‐imprinted Fe–TiO2 composites (NIP/Fe–TiO2), MIP/Fe–TiO2 showed higher adsorption capacity and selectivity toward the template molecule. In addition, it was found that the molecular recognition ability of MIP/Fe–TiO2 provided the catalysts with rapidly selective photo‐Fenton‐like degradation of low target pollutant levels (20 mg L−1) in the presence of high levels of interferential pollutant sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (100 mg L−1). Moreover, because of the stable physicochemical properties of the inorganic framework, the new photo‐Fenton‐like catalysts were resistant to photochemical attack and showed favorable reusability. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of fluid dynamic conditions on 1,3‐propanediol production from glycerol by Shimwellia blattae: carbon flux and cell response
Authors: Rodriguez Alberto , Santos Victoria E , Gomez Emilio , Garcia‐Ochoa Felix
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

The study of fluid dynamic conditions is essential in the development and the scaling‐up of bioprocesses. If the working volume is large, different turbulence regimes could appear during the fermentation, affecting the metabolic state of the overall culture. In anaerobic systems, increasing the stirrer speed can induce hydrodynamic stress, increasing shear stress, and its consequences can negatively affect the cell viability, reducing the yield or the productivity of the process.

RESULTS

A kinetic model was employed for describing the time course of biomass growth rate and the different metabolite production rates. An increase in agitation from 100 to 500 rpm enhanced 1,3‐propanediol (PDO) production and biomass growth rate. However, when stirrer speed was increased from 600 to 1000 rpm, the shear stress had a negative effect, decreasing the maximum PDO concentration reached and the glycerol uptake rate. Cellular response to shear stress conditions was also observed by the time course viable cells and cell images.

CONCLUSIONS

The production of PDO from raw glycerol by S. blattae is favored by increasing the stirrer speed to 500 rpm. Cell viability and integrity are compromised by hydrodynamic stress under aggressive agitation conditions (>600 rpm). © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Emerging insights into recurrent and metastatic human papillomavirus‐related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Faraji Farhoud , Eisele David W. , Fakhry Carole
Published: January 2017

Objective

To review recent literature on human papillomavirus‐related (HPV‐positive) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPC) and focus on implications of recurrent and metastatic disease.

Methods

Primary articles from 1990 to 2016 indexed in MEDLINE (1) pertaining to the epidemiology of HPV‐positive OPC and (2) providing clinical insight into recurrent and metastatic OPC.

Results

The incidence of HPV‐positive OPC is increasing globally. HPV‐positive OPC is a subtype with distinct molecular and clinical features including enhanced treatment response and improved overall survival. While disease recurrence is less common in patients with HPV‐positive OPC, up to 36% of patients experience treatment failure within eight years. Recurrent and metastatic OPC has historically signified poor prognosis, however recent data are challenging this dogma. Here, we discuss recurrent and metastatic OPC in the context of HPV tumor status.

Conclusion

HPV‐positive OPC exhibits distinct genetic, cellular, epidemiological, and clinical features from HPV‐negative OPC. HPV tumor status is emerging as a marker indicative of improved prognosis after disease progression in both locoregionally recurrent and distant metastatic OPC.

Level of Evidence

N/A.
Engineering 3D Aligned Nanofibers for Regulation of Cell Growth Behavior
Authors: Jin Lin , Xu Qinwei , Li Cheng , Huang Jingbin , Zhang Yilei , Wu Dingcai , Wang Zhenling
Published: January 2017

3D aligned electrospun fibers hold a promising potential in a wide range of biomedical areas, including biosensors, controlled drug release, tissue engineering, etc. Thus, a cost‐effective and easy way to scale‐up fabrication for 3D aligned nanofibers is highly desired. Herein, a novel yet facile preparation process of 3D aligned nanofibers (3D AFs) by an improved electrospinning technique is reported. The obtained 3D AFs show enhanced controllability on morphology and fiber density, and thus facilitate adhesion and growth of human mesenchymal stem cells within their 3D nanofiber microarchitectures, leading to an excellent in vitro biocompatibility. Moreover, the 3D AFs with aligned morphology can enhance the neuron activities and induce directional cell growth along the direction of nanofiber orientation, thereby providing an excellent cue for the anchorage and migration dependent neurons. Combined with controllable morphology and structure, it is anticipated that this finding can lead to great applications of electrospun fibers in nerve tissue engineering, diagnostics, and other biomedical fields.

image
The gastrointestinal tract of farmed mink (Neovison vison) maintains a diverse mucosa‐associated microbiota following a 3‐day fasting period
Authors: Bahl Martin I. , Hammer Anne S. , Clausen Tove , Jakobsen Anabelle , Skov Søren , Andresen Lars
Published: January 2017

Although it is well documented that the gut microbiota plays an important role in health and disease in mammalian species, this area has been poorly studied among carnivorous animals, especially within the mustelidae family. The gastrointestinal tract of carnivores is characterized by its short length and fast transit time, as compared to omnivores and herbivores, which is due to the low level of inherent fermentation. Mink represents an example of this, which have a GI tract only four times the length of the body and a transit time of approximately 4–5 hr. In this study, we used high‐throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing to explore the resident gut microbiota of the mink in terms of intra‐and interindividual diversity. We report, for the first time, that the mucosa‐associated bacterial community within the colon is diverse and dissimilar from the community found in the feed. We found large interindividual differences in bacterial composition between individual animals being dominated generally by the phylum Firmicutes, but in some cases also Proteobacteria or Fusobacteria. The bacterial load and community structure within the mucus was not severely impacted by 3 days of fasting, which implies that a resident and stable microbiota is hosted by these animals.
Human Antimicrobial Peptides in Bodily Fluids: Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Perspectives in the Postantibiotic Era
Authors: Bastos Paulo , Trindade Fábio , da Costa João , Ferreira Rita , Vitorino Rui
Published: January 2017

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an integral part of the innate immune defense mechanism of many organisms. Due to the alarming increase of resistance to antimicrobial therapeutics, a growing interest in alternative antimicrobial agents has led to the exploitation of AMPs, both synthetic and isolated from natural sources. Thus, many peptide‐based drugs have been the focus of increasing attention by many researchers not only in identifying novel AMPs, but in defining mechanisms of antimicrobial peptide activity as well. Herein, we review the available strategies for the identification of AMPs in human body fluids and their mechanism(s) of action. In addition, an overview of the distribution of AMPs across different human body fluids is provided, as well as its relation with microorganisms and infectious conditions.
The Current State of NAD+‐Dependent Histone Deacetylases (Sirtuins) as Novel Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Schiedel Matthias , Robaa Dina , Rumpf Tobias , Sippl Wolfgang , Jung Manfred
Published: January 2017

Sirtuins are NAD+‐dependent protein deacylases that cleave off acetyl, as well as other acyl groups, from the ε‐amino group of lysines in histones and other substrate proteins. Seven sirtuin isotypes (Sirt1–7) have been identified in mammalian cells. As sirtuins are involved in the regulation of various physiological processes such as cell survival, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, DNA repair, cell metabolism, and caloric restriction, a dysregulation of their enzymatic activity has been associated with the pathogenesis of neoplastic, metabolic, infectious, and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, sirtuins are promising targets for pharmaceutical intervention. Growing interest in a modulation of sirtuin activity has prompted the discovery of several small molecules, able to inhibit or activate certain sirtuin isotypes. Herein, we give an update to our previous review on the topic in this journal (Schemies, 2010), focusing on recent developments in sirtuin biology, sirtuin modulators, and their potential as novel therapeutic agents.
Chronic Infection of the Prostate by Chlamydia muridarum Is Accompanied by Local Inflammation and Pelvic Pain Development
Authors: Sanchez Leonardo R. , Breser Maria L. , Godoy Gloria J. , Salazar Florencia C. , Mackern‐Oberti Juan P. , Cuffini Cecilia , Motrich Ruben D. , Rivero Virginia E.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital infections are the leading cause of sexually transmitted bacterial infections. Although the prevalence of chlamydial infection is similar in men and women, current research is mainly focused on women, neglecting the study of male genital tract infections. We, therefore, investigated Chlamydia infection in the rodent male genital tract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male NOD and C57BL/6 mice were inoculated in the meatus urethra with C. muridarum. Bacterial DNA, leukocyte infiltration of male genital tract tissues, pelvic pain, and Chlamydia‐specific immune responses were analyzed at different time points.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The inoculation of C. muridarum in the meatus urethra of male mice resulted in an ascending and widely disseminated infection of the male genital tract. C. muridarum remained longer and with the highest bacterial burdens in the prostate, thus showing a special tropism for this organ. Infection caused leukocyte infiltration, mainly composed by neutrophils, and also induced early pelvic pain development that rapidly dropped and resolved as the infection became chronic. Bacterial load and leukocyte infiltration was observed in all prostate lobes, although dorsolateral prostate was the most affected lobe. Interestingly, immune responses induced by both mice strains were characterized by the production of high levels of IL‐10 during early stages of the infection, with highest and sustained levels observed in NOD mice, which showed to be less efficient in clearing the infection. Chronic infection of the prostate accompanied by local inflammation and pelvic pain development described herein have important implications for the improvement of the diagnosis and for the design of new efficient therapies. Prostate 77:517–529, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.