bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Failure of Subcutaneous Ivermectin in Treating Strongyloides Hyperinfection
Authors: Leung Victor , Al-Rawahi Ghada N. , Grant Jennifer , Fleckenstein Lawrence , Bowie William
Published: September 2018

A man with Escherichia coli meningitis and bacteremia, while on dexamethasone, developed Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome and died despite salvage therapy with subcutaneous ivermectin. We report the first documented total and free levels of subcutaneous ivermectin used for therapy.
Efficacy of Ivermectin and Albendazole Alone and in Combination for Treatment of Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Pregnancy and Adverse Events: A Randomized Open Label Controlled Intervention Trial in Masindi District, Western Uganda
Authors: Ndyomugyenyi Richard , Kabatereine Narcis , Olsen Annette , Magnussen Pascal
Published: September 2018

A randomized open-label trial, including 834 pregnant women, examined efficacy and recorded adverse events of ivermectin (ivc) and albendazole (alb) alone and combined (comb) on soil-transmitted helminth infections (STHs) in the second trimester of pregnancy. One abortion occurred in the alb group and 10 stillbirths (1, 5, 3, and 1) in the ivc, alb, comb, and the reference group (ref) with no STHs, respectively. Two babies were born with congenital abnormalities (1 [ivc] and 1 [ref]). The prevalence of anemia at first antenatal care (ANC) visit was 20.6% (23.7% [ivc], 21.1% [alb], 22.2% [comb], and 16.1% [ref]). Anemia was reduced to 8.5% at 36 weeks of gestation with 10.9% (ivc), 11.5% (alb), 7.7% (comb), and 6.9% (ref). Hookworm cure rates were 29.4% (ivc), 95.5% (alb), and 92.6% (comb). No severe adverse events were reported by the women after the administration of ivc, alb, or comb during the second trimester of pregnancy, but long-term pharmacovigillance is needed to assess safety of ivc, alb, or comb in pregnancy.
Increased Endophily by the Malaria Vector Anopheles arabiensis in Southern Zambia and Identification of Digested Blood Meals
Authors: Fornadel Christen M. , Norris Douglas E.
Published: September 2018

An increase in Anopheles arabiensis showing endophilic behavior was observed in Macha, Zambia during March 2007. To determine whether this shift in resting behavior was accompanied by a change in feeding preference, an attempt was made to calculate the human blood index. However, only 46.2% of blood meals were successfully identified with existing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) diagnostics. This failure was hypothesized to be caused by the limitations of existing methods that are not capable of identifying host source from anophelines resting for extended time periods. Using an assay we developed that allows for the identification of mammalian host DNA out to 60 hours post-feeding, we were able to successfully determine the host source of 94.3% of recovered blood meals. The data show that, although An. arabiensis in Macha experienced a period of higher endophily, the degree of anthropophily and the sporozoite rate in the population remained comparable to the previous malaria season.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Pulmonary Tuberculosis by Stool PCR
Authors: Wolf Hilary , Mendez Melissa , Gilman Robert H. , Sheen Patricia , Soto Giselle , Velarde Angie K. , Zimic Mirko , Escombe A. Roderick , Montenegro Sonia , Oberhelman Richard A. , Evans Carlton A.
Published: September 2018

Pediatric pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosis is difficult because young children are unable to expectorate sputum samples. Testing stool for tuberculosis DNA from swallowed sputum may diagnose pulmonary tuberculosis. Hospitalized children with suspected tuberculosis had stool, nasopharyngeal, and gastric aspirates cultured that confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis in 16/236 patients. Twenty-eight stored stools from these 16 children were used to evaluate stool polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for tuberculosis diagnosis compared with 28 stool samples from 23 healthy control children. Two DNA extraction techniques were used: fast-DNA mechanical homogenization and Chelex-resin chemical extraction. DNA was tested for tuberculosis DNA with a hemi-nested IS6110 PCR. PCR after Fast-DNA processing was positive for 6/16 culture-proven tuberculosis patients versus 5/16 after Chelex extraction (sensitivity 38% and 31%, respectively). All controls were negative (specificity 100%). If sensitivity can be increased, stool PCR would be a rapid, non-invasive, and relatively bio-secure initial test for children with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis.
An Increase in Human Cases of Spotted Fever Rickettsiosis in Yucatan, Mexico, Involving Children
Authors: Zavala-Castro Jorge E. , Dzul-Rosado Karla R. , León Juan José Arias , Walker David H. , Zavala-Velázquez Jorge E.
Published: September 2018

The first human case of infection caused by Rickettsia in Yucatan was detected in 1996, and it was determined that the species was R. felis. Since then, passive epidemiologic surveillance was implemented to search for human cases in the public hospitals of the state, and in 2005, the first human case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever was detected. During the following 2 years, eight new confirmed cases and one probable case were identified. Seven cases involved children younger than 12 years of age, with a fatal outcome in three of the cases. Children are a particularly vulnerable population for this serious emerging infection.
Diversity of Human Rotavirus G and P Genotypes in Panama, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic
Authors: Bourdett-Stanziola Lurys , Jiménez Carlos , Ortega-Barria Eduardo
Published: September 2018

In this study 2,089 fecal samples from patients with gastroenteritis were analyzed from different hospitals in Panama, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic during the period comprised between December 2002 and July 2003. One hundred samples per country from the positives to the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to determine the G and P genotypes: in Panama, Costa Rica, and Dominican Republic the combinations G and P have a great diversity and unusual genotypes. These results highlight an unexpected diversity among rotavirus strains in these countries and emphasize the need for further serologic and genetic surveys on more rotavirus strains in Central America and the Caribbean. In this context, the next generation of rotavirus vaccines will need to provide adequate protection against diseases caused by unusual genotypes. These results represent the second report of rotavirus genotypes in Costa Rica and first-time reports of rotavirus genotypes in Panama and the Dominican Republic.
Time Series Analysis of Dengue Incidence in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Luz Paula M. , Mendes Beatriz V. M. , Codeço Claudia T. , Struchiner Claudio J. , Galvani Alison P.
Published: September 2018

We use the Box-Jenkins approach to fit an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to dengue incidence in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 1997 to 2004. We find that the number of dengue cases in a month can be estimated by the number of dengue cases occurring one, two, and twelve months prior. We use our fitted model to predict dengue incidence for the year 2005 when two alternative approaches are used: 12-steps ahead versus 1-step ahead. Our calculations show that the 1-step ahead approach for predicting dengue incidence provides significantly more accurate predictions (P value = 0.002, Wilcoxon signed-ranks test) than the 12-steps ahead approach. We also explore the predictive power of alternative ARIMA models incorporating climate variables as external regressors. Our findings indicate that ARIMA models are useful tools for monitoring dengue incidence in Rio de Janeiro. Furthermore, these models can be applied to surveillance data for predicting trends in dengue incidence.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Recombinant Subunit West Nile Vaccine in Syrian Golden Hamsters
Authors: Siirin Marina T. , Travassos da Rosa Amelia P. A. , Newman Patrick , Weeks-Levy Carolyn , Coller Beth-Ann , Xiao Shu-Yuan , Lieberman Michael M. , Watts Douglas M.
Published: September 2018

The efficacy of a recombinant subunit West Nile (WN) vaccine candidate was determined in a hamster model of encephalitis. Animals included young, aged, and immunocompromised animals in an effort to simulate key groups at risk of WN virus–induced disease. Groups of aged (12 month old), weanling, and adult hamsters rendered leukopenic after immunization were immunized subcutaneously with a WN virus recombinant envelope protein (WN-80E) with or without WN virus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) mixed with adjuvant or adjuvant alone. A challenge dose of wild-type WN virus was administered to produce 40–100% mortality in the control hamsters. The recombinant antigen preparations containing WN-80E with or without WN NS1 gave similar results. Hamsters in both groups had a strong antibody response after immunization, and none of the aged or weanling animals became ill or developed detectable viremia after challenge with WN virus at 2 weeks after booster vaccination. However, mortality among the control animals (administered adjuvant without antigen) at 2 weeks after booster challenge was 40–60%. In hamsters rendered leukopenic after immunization, survival rates up to 80% were observed, and a low-level viremia was detected in the vaccinated and challenged hamsters. The survival rate was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in animals vaccinated with a higher dose of WN-80E than a lower dose. The addition of NS1 did not significantly affect survival after challenge. In contrast, all of the control animals that received adjuvant only developed a very high level of viremia, and the mortality rate was 100%. These findings indicate that the recombinant WN vaccines induced antibody in and afforded protection to young and aged hamsters and immunosuppressed hamsters.
Confirmation of Japanese Encephalitis as an Endemic Human Disease Through Sentinel Surveillance in Indonesia
Authors: Ompusunggu Sahat , Hills Susan L. , Maha Masri Sembiring , Moniaga Vanda A. , Susilarini Ni Ketut , Widjaya Anton , Sasmito Agus , Suwandono Agus , Sedyaningsih Endang R. , Jacobson Julie A.
Published: September 2018

Japanese encephalitis (JE) results in significant mortality and disability in children in Asia. In Indonesia, despite recognition of JE virus transmission, reports of human disease have been few and from limited geographic areas. Hospital-based surveillance for acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) and JE in children 15 years of age and under was undertaken in 15 hospitals in six provinces from 2005 to 2006. High- and low-risk provinces in geographically dispersed areas were included. Health center-based surveillance also was undertaken in one province. Eighty-two JE cases were confirmed among 1,496 AES cases detected. JE cases were confirmed in all provinces, but the proportion varied between 18% and 2% among provinces of different risk levels. Children younger than 10 years of age represented 95% of JE cases, and 47% of all cases either died or were disabled. The study shows JE is an endemic human disease across Indonesia. Immunization strategies are being considered.
Individual and Household Level Factors Associated with Malaria Incidence in a Highland Region of Ethiopia: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Peterson Ingrid , Borrell Luisa N. , El-Sadr Wafaa , Teklehaimanot Awash
Published: September 2018

Multilevel analysis was used to identify individual and household level factors associated with malaria risk in 1,367 individuals in a peri-urban area of highland Ethiopia. Living within 450 m of a major vector-breeding site accounted for 38.78% and 78.49% of between-household variance in malaria incidence in adults and children, respectively. In adults, other individual level factors associated with malaria risk were regular or recent travel to rural areas (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 12.96; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.05, 41.48) and having an indoor job (IRR = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.16, 0.87). Household level factors associated with adult malaria risk were low vegetation level in compound (IRR = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.10, 0.78), tidy compound (IRR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.12, 0.71), household use of preventive measures (IRR = 0.31; 95% CI = 0.13, 0.74), and the number of 5- to 9-year-old children in the household (IRR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.08, 2.53). Aside from distance to the vector-breeding site, few other malaria risk factors were identified in children. Malaria interventions in highland African communities should address household level factors associated with malaria clustering.
Plasmodium inui shortii: Studies in Old World and New World Monkeys
Authors: Collins William E. , Warren McWilson , Sullivan Joann S. , Barnwell John W.
Published: September 2018

Plasmodium inui shortti was studied in monkeys (66 Macaca mulatta, 2 M. fascicularis, 12 Saimiri boliviensis, 4 Aotus lemurinus griseimembra, and 1 A. nancymaae). Prepatent periods for 30 sporozoite transmissions by Anopheles stephensi, An. dirus, and An. maculatus mosquitoes ranged from 10 to 48 days with a median of 15.5 days. In rhesus monkeys, mean maximum parasite counts for intact animals were 181,970/μL; for splenectomized animals, the mean maximum parasite count was 1,167,890/μL.
Paracoccidioidomycosis in Patients Infected with and Not Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Morejón Karen M. Loro , Machado Alcyone Artioli , Martinez Roberto
Published: September 2018

Epidemiologic and clinical data for 53 patients with paracoccidioidomycosis and co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (cases) were compared with those for 106 patients with endemic paracoccidioidomycosis (controls). The prevalence of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis co-infection was estimated in 1.4% in cases of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Patients co-infected with HIV were younger, less involved in agricultural occupations; 83.7% had CD4+ cell count < 200 cells/μL. Paracoccidioidomycosis in co-infected patients usually showed a rapid progression, with more fever, frequent involvement of the lungs, and multiple extrapulmonary lesions. The response to antifungal therapy and deaths caused by paracoccidioidomycosis were similar in the two patient groups, but late relapses were more common in co-infected cases. Paracoccidioidomycosis in HIV-infected patients shows epidemiologic and clinical characteristics differing from those of the endemic disease and should be considered an AIDS-defining opportunistic infection in Latin America.
Unified Parasite Lactate Dehydrogenase and Histidine-Rich Protein ELISA for Quantification of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Martin Samuel K. , Rajasekariah G-Halli , Awinda George , Waitumbi John , Kifude Carolyne
Published: September 2018

There is a need for more objective and quantitative tools to replace microscopy in malaria diagnosis. Emphasis has recently been placed on alternative methods such as immunochromatography-based rapid tests. However, these tests provide only qualitative results. Two bio-molecules, parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) and histidine-rich proteins (HRPs), that are released by the intra-erythrocytic stages of the parasite offer certain specific characteristics that could potentially improve malaria diagnosis. In this paper, we describe a protocol for a unified sandwich ELISA that allows for the separate but concurrent measurement of pLDH and HRP biomolecules in aliquots taken from the same samples. Freshly drawn blood from a healthy unexposed adult male was used to serially dilute in vitro cultivated and synchronized ring stage Plasmodium falciparum parasites. Commercially available ELISA formats were modified to allow for the measurement of pLDH and HRP from aliquots of the same samples. The pLDH and HRP levels in the samples spiked with known numbers of infected red blood cells (iRBCs) were measured, and the values were used to generate standard graphs. The standard graphs were used to estimate the numbers of iRBCs in test samples. Serially diluted recombinant proteins were similarly used to generate a calibration curve, allowing for the expression of test results in nanograms of their respective recombinant protein. Levels of pLDH and HRPs were determined by using 1) P. falciparum culture material (cells and medium) 2) P. falciparum infected human blood (N = 6) samples, and 3) plasma from P. falciparum–infected patient (N = 22) samples. The parasite density of all culture and infected patient samples was also estimated by microscopy. Both pLDH and HRP levels correlated positively with the parasite density assessed by microscopy: Pearson correlation coefficient pLDH (r = 0.754, P < 0.0001, 95% CI: 0.47–0.89); HRP (r = 0.552, P < 0.007, 95% CI: 0.16–0.79). The HRPs seem to be released in larger quantities than pLDH (in a ratio of ~1 pLDH:~6 HRP), making the detection of HRP in culture material, blood, and plasma easier. The modified ELISA assay with quantitative measurement of pLDH and HRPs may provide a valuable tool for malaria research and patient management.
Association of Treatment of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Prior to Ulcer Development with High Rate of Failure in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Unger Alon , O’Neal Seth , Machado Paulo R. L. , Guimarães Luiz H. , Morgan Daniel J. , Schriefer Albert , Bacellar Olívia , Glesby Marshall J. , Carvalho Edgar M.
Published: September 2018

Cure rates for American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) range between 60% and 90%. Early evidence suggests lower cure rates for early ACL before the development of the ulceration. We evaluated risk factors for treatment failure in patients with early and classic ulcerative ACL. Patients (n = 136) were 13–60 years of age and had lesions with a duration of 15–90-days. Patients were treated with antimony (20 mg/kg/day for 20 days). The primary outcome was lesion cure by 90 days without recurrence. Patients with early ACL (n = 16) had papules, nodules, plaques, or superficial ulcerations with less than 30 days of illness. Patients with classic ulcerative ACL (n = 120) had ulcerated classic lesions, longer duration, larger lesions, and higher levels of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α (P ≤ 0.01 for all comparisons). Ulcerated lesions were associated with a lower treatment failure rate compared with early ACL (25.8% versus 75.0%; P < 0.001). Early treatment of ACL does not prevent lesion ulceration and is associated with higher rates of treatment failure.
Detection of RNA from a Novel West Nile-like Virus and High Prevalence of an Insect-specific Flavivirus in Mosquitoes in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico
Authors: Farfan-Ale Jose A. , Loroño-Pino Maria A. , Garcia-Rejon Julian E. , Hovav Einat , Powers Ann M. , Lin Ming , Dorman Karin S. , Platt Kenneth B. , Bartholomay Lyric C. , Soto Victor , Beaty Barry J. , Lanciotti Robert S. , Blitvich Bradley J.
Published: September 2018

As part of our ongoing surveillance efforts for West Nile virus (WNV) in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, 96,687 mosquitoes collected from January through December 2007 were assayed by virus isolation in mammalian cells. Three mosquito pools caused cytopathic effect. Two isolates were orthobunyaviruses (Cache Valley virus and Kairi virus) and the identity of the third infectious agent was not determined. A subset of mosquitoes was also tested by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using WNV-, flavivirus-, alphavirus-, and orthobunyavirus-specific primers. A total of 7,009 Culex quinquefasciatus in 210 pools were analyzed. Flavivirus RNA was detected in 146 (70%) pools, and all PCR products were sequenced. The nucleotide sequence of one PCR product was most closely related (71–73% identity) with homologous regions of several other flaviviruses, including WNV, St. Louis encephalitis virus, and Ilheus virus. These data suggest that a novel flavivirus (tentatively named T’Ho virus) is present in Mexico. The other 145 PCR products correspond to Culex flavivirus, an insect-specific flavivirus first isolated in Japan in 2003. Culex flavivirus was isolated in mosquito cells from approximately one in four homogenates tested. The genomic sequence of one isolate was determined. Surprisingly, heterogeneous sequences were identified at the distal end of the 5′ untranslated region.
Humoral Immunity to West Nile Virus Is Long-Lasting and Protective in the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Authors: Nemeth Nicole M. , Oesterle Paul T. , Bowen Richard A.
Published: September 2018

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a common and abundant amplifying host of West Nile virus (WNV) and many survive infection and develop humoral immunity. We experimentally inoculated house sparrows with WNV and monitored duration and protection of resulting antibodies. Neutralizing antibody titers remained relatively constant for ≥ 36 months (N = 42) and provided sterilizing immunity for up to 36 months post-inoculation in 98.6% of individuals (N = 72). These results imply that immune house sparrows are protected from WNV infection for multiple transmission seasons. Additionally, individuals experiencing WNV-associated mortality reached significantly higher peak viremia titers than survivors, and mortality during acute infection was significantly higher in caged versus free-flight sparrows. A better understanding of the long-term immunity and mortality rates in birds is valuable in interpreting serosurveillance and diagnostic data and modeling transmission and disease dynamics.
Sociodemographic and Environmental Risk Factors for American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) in the State of Alagoas, Brazil
Authors: de Araújo Pedrosa Fernando , de Alencar Ximenes Ricardo Arraes
Published: September 2018

The multiplicity of factors involved in the transmission of the American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) constitutes a challenge to its control. Thus, knowledge of such factors may contribute extremely toward redefining the control strategies. The aim of this study was to identify sociodemographic and environmental factors relating to ACL transmission in the State of Alagoas, Brazil. A case-control study with incident cases was conducted. Diagnostic criteria were the presence of compatible skin lesions, laboratory confirmation, and clinical cure after treatment. Two control groups were matched to cases by sex and age: one comprising neighbors and the other from a community-based draw; controls were individuals with no lesion and a negative Montenegro intradermal reaction. Between July 1, 2004 and February 1, 2007, 98 cases and the same number of controls per group were selected. In the multivariate analysis, for both control groups, ACL was associated with absence of a gas stove and forest less than 200 m away; for neighborhood controls with schooling of 4 years or less, family income greater than one minimum salary, birds inside the home, forest-related leisure activities, and rural work or school activities; and for community controls with non-durable wall material in the house, per capita income greater than US$ 28.31, animals inside the house, and absence of dogs and cats around the house. Specific control measures are recommended for areas with similar characteristics: protection for individuals undertaking forest-related leisure activities; distancing houses from forests by more than 200 m; and elimination of bird or other animal-rearing inside homes. General measures of improved housing and living conditions are also recommended.
Seroprevalence of Human Granulocytotropic Anaplasmosis in Central and Southeastern China
Authors: Zhang Shouyin , Hai Rong , Li Wenyuan , Li Guohua , Lin Guangyu , He Jinrong , Fu Xiuping , Zhang Jingshan , Cai Hong , Ma Fengqin , Zhang Jianhua , Yu Dongzheng , Yu Xue-jie
Published: September 2018

Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is an emerging tick-borne infectious disease. To determine the prevalence of HGA in central and southeastern China, a total of 323 human sera were collected from individuals at high risk for exposure to ticks and animals. The IgG antibody against the etiologic agent of HGA, Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected with indirect immunofluorescence assay. The results showed that 20% of the tested individuals (64/323) were positive to A. phagocytophilum and that the incidence was higher in male (22%) than female (16%). We concluded that A. phagocytophilum infection was prevalent in central and southeastern China.
Effects of probabilities, adverse outcomes, and status quo on perceived riskiness of medications: Testing explanatory hypotheses concerning gist, worry, and numeracy
Authors: Wilhelms Evan A. , Fraenkel Liana , Reyna Valerie F.
Published: September 2018

We tested predictions of fuzzy‐trace theory that qualitative health status and gist representations (ordinal and categorical) of risks contribute to willingness to start medications, beyond effects of objective risk, emotion (worry), and numeracy. Adults in two experiments were given hypothetical scenarios based on actual medications, varying health status quo (acceptable or unacceptable), adverse event (pneumonia or cancer), and four levels of quantitative risk (from 1/100,000 to 1/100) between subjects. In both experiments, cancer and higher quantitative risk elicited greater worry and risk perceptions and reduced willingness to start a new medication. Willingness to start was also influenced by health status quo. After controlling for other variables, only status quo and gist representations consistently predicted willingness to start in both experiments. Results support an integrated approach to understanding and predicting perceptions of the risks of medications that encompasses numerical cognition, emotions (such as worry), and qualitative gist representations of medical information.
3D Self‐Architectured Steam Electrode Enabled Efficient and Durable Hydrogen Production in a Proton‐Conducting Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell at Temperatures Lower Than 600 °C
Authors: Wu Wei , Ding Hanping , Zhang Yunya , Ding Yong , Katiyar Prashant , Majumdar Prasun K. , He Ting , Ding Dong
Published: September 2018

Hydrogen production via water electrolysis using solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) has attracted considerable attention because of its favorable thermodynamics and kinetics. It is considered as the most efficient and low‐cost option for hydrogen production from renewable energies. By using proton‐conducting electrolyte (H‐SOECs), the operating temperature can be reduced from beyond 800 to 600 °C or even lower due to its higher conductivity and lower activation energy. Technical barriers associated with the conventional oxygen‐ion conducting SOECs (O‐SOECs), that is, hydrogen separation and electrode instability that is primarily due to the Ni oxidation at high steam concentration and delamination associated with oxygen evolution, can be remarkably mitigated. Here, a self‐architectured ultraporous (SAUP) 3D steam electrode is developed for efficient H‐SOECs below 600 °C. At 600 °C, the electrolysis current density reaches 2.02 A cm−2 at 1.6 V. Instead of fast degradation in most O‐SOECs, performance enhancement is observed during electrolysis at an applied voltage of 1.6 V at 500 °C for over 75 h, attributed to the “bridging” effect originating from reorganization of the steam electrode. The H‐SOEC with SAUP steam electrode demonstrates excellent performance, promising a new prospective for next‐generation steam electrolysis at reduced temperatures.
Knoevenagel Condensation of Aldehydes and Ketones with Alkyl Nitriles Catalyzed by Strongly Basic Anion Exchange Resins under Continuous‐Flow Conditions
Authors: Ishitani Haruro , Saito Yuki , Nakamura Yosuke , Yoo Woo‐Jin , Kobayashi Shū
Published: September 2018

The use of strongly basic anion exchange resins as catalysts for Knoevenagel condensations under continuous‐flow conditions was investigated. It was found that Amberlite FPA60 was an efficient solid base catalyst for the flow synthesis of 1,2‐disubstituted alkenyl nitriles from arylmethyl nitriles and aldehydes. On the other hand, the Knoevenagel reaction involving acetonitrile required elevated reaction temperatures, which necessitated a change to a thermally robust ammonium hydroxide polymer catalyst. The potential applications of these strongly basic anion exchange resins for multi‐step continuous‐flow synthesis were also demonstrated.
What's in a term? “Green growth” and the “blue‐green economy” in the Pacific islands
Authors: Dornan Matthew , Morgan Wesley , Newton Cain Tess , Tarte Sandra
Published: September 2018

The term “green growth” and its sister concepts, “blue‐green growth,” the “green economy,” and the “blue‐green economy,” have gained considerable traction in the Pacific island region in a short space of time. Pacific island governments, regional organisations, and development agencies all use the terms, which originate outside of the Pacific. What (and who) has driven the adoption of green growth terminology within the region? How has its usage in the region mirrored international usage? This paper presents findings from research on the vernacularisation of green growth terminology in Fiji and Vanuatu. We find a contested policy space, where Pacific actors deploy competing meanings of green growth terms in ways that both reflect their worldviews and support their agendas. This diversity has helped to underpin the rapid spread of green growth terminology in the region, while differentiating it from international usage.
Identifying Stable Fragments of Arabidopsis thaliana Cellulose Synthase Subunit 3 by Yeast Display
Authors: Raeeszadeh‐Sarmazdeh Maryam , Patel Nikhil , Cruise Sarah , Owen Leila , O'Neill Hugh , Boder Eric T.
Published: September 2018

Determining structures of large, complex proteins remains challenging, especially for transmembrane proteins, as the protein size increases. Arabidopsis thaliana cellulose synthesis complex is a large, multimeric complex located in the plant cell membrane that synthesizes cellulose microfibrils in the plant cell wall. Despite the biological and economic importance of cellulose and therefore cellulose synthesis, many aspects of the cellulase synthase complex (CSC) structure and function are still unknown. Here, yeast surface display (YSD) is used to determine the full‐length expression of A. thaliana cellulose synthase 3 (AtCesA3) fragments. The level of stably‐folded AtCesA3 fragments displayed on the yeast surface are determined using flow cytometric analysis of differential surface expression of epitopes flanking the AtCesA3 fragment. This technique provides a fast and simple method for examining folding and expression of protein domains and fragments of complex proteins.
Generation of Gold(I) Carbenes by Retro‐Buchner Reaction: From Cyclopropanes to Natural Products Synthesis
Authors: Mato Mauro , García‐Morales Cristina , Echavarren Antonio M.
Published: September 2018

The gold(I)‐catalyzed retro‐Buchner (decarbenation, retrocyclopropanation) reaction of 7‐substituted cycloheptatrienes has emerged as a safe and powerful alternative for the generation of gold(I) carbenes. These carbenes can cyclopropanate alkenes, take part in intramolecular reactions, or engage in higher cycloadditions with different partners, giving rise to a wide range of relevant structures. This review covers the developments made on the generation of gold(I) carbenes via decarbenation reactions, and the applications of these reactions in organic synthesis.
Different patterns of second‐line treatment in type 2 diabetes after metformin monotherapy in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden (D360 Nordic): A multinational observational study
Authors: Persson Frederik , Bodegard Johan , Lahtela Jorma T. , Nyström Thomas , Jørgensen Marit E. , Jensen Majken Linneman , Gulseth Hanne L. , Thuresson Marcus , Hoti Fabian , Nathanson David , Norhammar Anna , Birkeland Kåre I. , Eriksson Johan G. , Eriksson Jan W.
Published: September 2018

Aims

The understanding of second‐line use of glucose‐lowering drugs (GLDs) in the general population with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treatment is important as recent results have shown cardiovascular benefits with sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2i) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RA). Our aim was to describe second‐line GLD treatment patterns in four Nordic countries.

Methods

All T2D patients treated with GLD between 2006 and 2015 were identified in prescribed drug registries in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, and linked with National Patient and Cause of Death Registries. Second‐line treatment was defined as a prescription of a second GLD class following ≥6 months of metformin monotherapy. Index was the date of first dispense of the second‐line drug.

Results

A rapid uptake of newer GLDs (GLP‐1RA, DPP‐4i and SGLT‐2i) over the 10‐year observation period was seen in Denmark, Finland and Norway, while slower in Sweden. In 2015, 33,880 (3.1%) of 1,078,692 T2D patients initiated second‐line treatment, and newer GLDs were more commonly used in Finland (92%), Norway (71%) and Denmark (70%) vs Sweden (44%). In 2015, the use of older GLDs (insulin and sulphonylureas) was 7‐fold greater in Sweden compared to Finland (49% vs 7%), and 1.6‐fold greater compared with Denmark and Norway (49% vs 30% and 29%, respectively).

Conclusions

Despite comparable demography and healthcare systems in four neighbouring countries, surprisingly large differences in second‐line use of newer GLDs were found. With recent evidence of potential cardiovascular benefits with newer GLDs, such differences may have an important impact on cardiovascular outcomes.
Comparison between the effect of human Wharton’s jelly–derived mesenchymal stem cells and levetiracetam on brain infarcts in rats
Authors: Abd El Motteleb Dalia M. , Hussein Samia , Hasan Mai. M. , Mosaad Hala
Published: September 2018

Background

Stroke represents one of the major causes of death worldwide. Neuroprotection remains an important goal of stroke therapy. Stem cell therapeutic effect is attributed to the neuroprotective effect and the regulation of the oxidant stress. Levetiracetam (LEV), a second‐generation antiepileptic drug, was reported to confer neuronal protection after cerebral ischemia reperfusion.

Aim

To investigate the effect of human Wharton’s jelly–derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ‐MSCs) and LEV on the size of brain infarcts, the histological structure, the neurotrophic, and the antioxidant gene expression in middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats.

Method

The rats were divided into five equal groups of 12 rats each as follows. Sham control group: received phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS); ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) group: received PBS before ligation; stem cell–treated group: the animal received MSCs before ligation; LEV‐treated group: the animal received LEV before occlusion; combined group: the animals received both MSCs and LEV before occlusion. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to study the histological structure of the brain. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed to assess gene expression.

Results

Both MSCs and LEV improved memory and learning in the treated groups compared with I/R group. Significant reduction of the infarct size in WJ‐MSC‐ or LEV‐treated groups when compared with untreated ones was found. By RT‐PCR, a significant decrease of the expression values of glial‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), phosphatidylethanolamine binding protein 1 (PEBP1), and copper‐zinc SOD (Cu/ZnSOD) genes and a significant increase of pro‐oxidant iNOS gene in the I/R rats compared with the sham group was detected. There was a significant increase in the expression values of GDNF, BDNF, PEBP1, and Cu/ZnSOD genes in both treated groups when compared with the I/R group. Rats treated with WJ‐MSCs showed better results than rats treated with LEV. Finally, the combined use of LEV and WJ‐MSCs was the most effective regimen as regard infarction volume and functional learning and memory tests.

Conclusion

In the brain ischemia model, combined WJ‐MSCs and LEV have demonstrated striking protective effects in brain infarction by the modulation of the oxidant status and neuroprotective effect.
Retracted: Anticancer effects of miR‐200c in colorectal cancer through BMI1
Authors: Karimi Mazraehshah Mitra , Tavangar Seyed Mohammad , Saidijam Massoud , Amini Razieh , Bahreini Fatemeh , Karimi Dermani Fatemeh , Najafi Rezvan
Published: September 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most leading cancer deaths throughout the world. MiR‐200c has been shown to have a critical role in cancer initiation and progression. In this study, we investigated the miR‐200c expression in CRC tissues and its effects on CRC cell lines which were mediated by polycomb complex protein (BMI1). Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (QRT‐PCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to detect miR‐200c and BMI1 expression in tumor tissues from 38 patients with CRC and 38 normal colon tissues. HCT‐116 and SW‐48 cells were transfected by locked nucleic acid (LNA)‐anti‐miR‐200c. Western blot analysis and real‐time PCR were applied to determine the BMI1 protein and microRNA (miRNA) levels. The apoptosis was analyzed via annexin/propidium iodide staining, and cell invasion was evaluated by transwell assay. MiR‐200c was markedly downregulated in CRC tissues, whereas the protein expression of BMI1 in CRC tissues was upregulated compared with normal colon tissues. In the colon cancer cell lines, transfection of LNA‐anti‐miR‐200c increased BMI1 gene and protein expression as well as the cell invasion. Downregulation of miR‐200c by LNA decreased the apoptotic cells. The results from this study revealed that miR‐200c may have antitumor effects through inhibition of BMI1 expression.
Novel variations in NPHS1 gene in children of South Indian population and its association with primary nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Mohanapriya Chinambedu Dhandapani , Vettriselvi Venkatesan , Nammalwar Bollam Rengaswamy , Gowrishankar Kalpana , Ekambaram Sudha , Sengutavan Prabha , Venkatachalam Perumal
Published: September 2018

Mutations in NPHS1 can lead to disruption of the filtration barrier and cause proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome (NS). The aim of the study was to evaluate NPHS1 mutations, its susceptibility to the disease, and their association in children with steroid‐resistant NS; mutation frequency of 9% was observed in patients with steroid‐resistant NS, of which, six mutations and two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms observed in the study population were found to be novel.
Fsk and IBMX inhibit proliferation and proapoptotic of glioma stem cells via activation of cAMP signaling pathway
Authors: Lv Peng , Wang Weiyao , Cao Zhiyou , Zhao Donghai , Zhao Guifang , Li Dailin , Qi Ling , Xu Junjie
Published: September 2018

Objective

We aimed to find out the underlying mechanism of forskolin (Fsk) and 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (IBMX) on glioma stem cells (GSCs).

Methods

The expression of cAMP‐related protein CREB and pCREB as well as apoptosis‐related proteins were detected through Western blot analysis. The level of proliferation and growth rate of human GSCs was measured through thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay and stem cells forming sphere assay. The apoptosis‐related gene expression was measured through reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results

cAMP signaling pathway was activated in GSCs with Fsk‐IBMX administration. Fsk‐IBMX could inhibit the proliferation as well as invasion and promote the apoptosis of U87 cells. Besides, U0126 could inhibit MAPK signaling pathway to increase the sensitivity of GSCs to cAMP signaling pathway. As a result, Fsk‐IBMX combined with U0126 had more negative effect on GSCs.

Conclusions

The relationship of cAMP and MAPK signaling pathway in GSCs may provide a potential therapeutic strategy in glioma.
Improvement of oocyte in vitro maturation from mice with polycystic ovary syndrome by human mesenchymal stromal cell–conditioned media
Authors: Jafarzadeh Hamideh , Nazarian Hamid , Ghaffari Novin Marefat , Shams Mofarahe Zahra , Eini Fatemeh , Piryaei Abbas
Published: September 2018

The outcome of in vitro maturation (IVM) in the patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is poor. Abnormal intraovarian paracrine interplay alters microenvironment for oocyte development through folliculogenesis and decreases developmental competence of oocytes in patients with PCOS. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) secrete a variety of cytokines and growth factors that could promote oocyte maturation in vitro. Thus, in the current study we aimed to evaluate the effect of human bone marrow MSC–conditioned media (hBM‐MSC‐CM), as a supplement, to enrich IVM medium for PCOS germinal vesicles (GVs). For this purpose, oocytes at GV and metaphase II (MII) stages were harvested from PCOS mice. The GVs were randomly divided into four groups and incubated for 24 hours in an IVM medium (TCM199, as the control group) or TCM199 supplemented by 25%, 50%, and 75% of hBM‐MSC‐CM (PCOS‐CM25, PCOS‐CM50, and PCOS‐CM75 groups, respectively) so as to evaluate which dose(s) could enhance maturation rate of the GVs and their subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. Furthermore, MII oocytes and their subsequent IVF outcome were considered as the in vivo matured (PCOS‐IVO) group. The data showed that supplementation of IVM medium with 50% hBM‐MSC‐CM significantly increased cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation of the GVs (P < 0.001), and also fertilization and two‐cell rate (P < 0.001) and blastocyst formation (P < 0.01) of in vitro matured oocytes from mice with PCOS. Overall, higher oocyte maturation and fertilization outcome in PCOS‐CM50 group proposed that enrichment of IVM medium with hBM‐MSC‐CM could be considered as a promising approach to improve IVM of PCOS oocytes.
MMP‐11 promotes papillary thyroid cell proliferation and invasion via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhun , Dong Tianyi , Fu Ying , Zhou Wenhong , Tian Xingsong , Chen Gengyu , Liu Shili
Published: September 2018

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common form of thyroid cancer, and its incidence is on the rise. It has been reported that some matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are abnormally expressed in PTC and can be used as diagnostic markers. However, few studies have explored the underlying mechanisms by which MMPs promote tumor progression. In this study, we used microarray analysis to compare the variations of gene expression within the PTC cell populations and their adjacent normal tissues and found that MMP‐11 was the most differentially expressed MMP. To investigate the role of MMP‐11 in the mediation of thyroid cancer cell development, pEnter‐MMP‐11 plasmid, and MMP‐11 small interfering RNA were applied to up‐ and downregulate MMP‐11 expression of in cultured PTC cell lines K1 and BCPAP. The results suggested that the levels of proliferation and migration of cells transfected with MMP‐11 siRNA were significantly reduced, while the levels in MMP‐11‐plasmid‐transfected cells were increased. In terms of the mechanism, experimental data showed that the change in cyclin D1 is consistent with MMP‐11 expression, which may explain the changes in proliferation. In addition, Western blot assay was conducted to analyze the p65 and activated (phospho‐) p65 protein levels concomitant with MMP‐11 adjustments. Variations in intracellular MMP‐11 significantly altered the amount of phospho‐p65 in thyroid cells, while p65 knockdown did not affect MMP‐11 expression. These results suggest that MMP‐11 is located upstream of p65 and regulates its activity. Interestingly, the data for the Transwell assay suggested that MMP‐11 regulatory migration is also associated with the NF‐κB p65 signaling pathway. In conclusion, this report describes the important role of MMP‐11 in the regulation of thyroid cell proliferation and migration. Mechanistic studies have shown that cyclin D1 and p65 are important mediators in the processes, which provides a new way to study the mechanism of MMPs promoting the progression of thyroid cancer.
Exchange interference for a range of partially deuterated hydrocarbons using a GC‐EI‐MSD
Authors: Shafer Wilson D. , Davis Burtron H.
Published: September 2018

Industrial catalyst processes, such as the Fischer‐Tropsch (FT) process, produce a vast array of products from syngas (H2/CO), such as jet fuel, gasoline, diesel, synthetic rubbers, monomers for plastics industries, and other oil/wax materials for specific purposes such as cosmetics. Multitudes of publications since the discovery of the FT process in 1925 have been composed, attempting to elucidate the mechanism. Many of these publications attempt to investigate the mechanism of FT by the utilization of specific deuterium experimentation through the switching of the syngas from H2/CO to D2/CO. Results from this switching indicated that hydrogen was involved in the rate‐limited step; the overall process conversion produced an inverse kinetic isotope effect. To confirm that results were not hindered by the physical switch of the hydrogen isotopes, further experimentation was performed using equal molar of each isotope competitively (equal molar H2/D2)/CO. Complications arose from this competitive work as it generated fully exchanged products, i.e. all partially deuterated hydrocarbons that could not be separated by chromatography. These compounds could no longer be separated by the chromatography and required a further separation by mass. The overall scope for this work was to determine if a range of partially deuterated paraffin compounds, generated by FT, can be analyzed using an EI‐MSD without interinstrumental H/D exchange. Results indicate that no real exchange occurs in the EI MSD for a carbon range from about C6 to C16. Even though the materials cannot be separated chromatographically, they can be further separated and analyzed to determine the overall H/D content for these specific chain lengths.
Künstliche Metalloproteine für die Olefinmetathese
Authors: Sauer Daniel F. , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Okuda Jun
Published: September 2018

Wie lässt sich der Grubbs‐Hoveyda‐II‐Katalysator so modifizieren, dass er – verankert an einem Protein – einem Enzym ähnelt? Ein Überblick.
Achte CeBiTec Research Conference
Authors: Gröger Harald , Kourist Robert , Schallmey Anett
Published: September 2018

Im April 2018 fand in Bielefeld die dreitägige Tagung 8th CeBiTec Research Conference/Biocascades Symposium zum Thema Reaction Concepts for Industrial Biocatalysis – Process Catalysts, Process Development, Cascades and New Products statt. Mehr als 80 Forscher aus Akademia und Industrie tauschten sich über aktuelle Entwicklungen der Enzymkatalyse in der Synthese organischer Moleküle aus. Die Schwerpunkte der Konferenz mit 23 Vorträgen und 34 Posterbeiträgen spannten einen Bogen vom Design maßgeschneiderter Biokatalysatoren über Strategien zu deren Nutzung in der Synthese sowie der Kombination zu Kaskadenreaktionen bis hin zu industriellen Anwendungen.
Fester verbunden
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: September 2018

Ende August trafen sich im englischen Liverpool Chemiker aus ganz Europa zum 7. Kongress der Euchems. Dort änderte der Dachverband der europäischen Chemiegesellschaften seinen Namen: Das Silbenkurzwort – Eigenschreibweise EuChemS – soll fortan für European Chemical Society stehen.
Synthese im Blickpunkt: Katalyse mit elektrophilen Phosphoniumkationen
Authors: Schmauck Julie , Breugst Martin
Published: September 2018

Mit Phosphoniumsalzen gelingen Hydrodefluorierungen, Hydrosilylierungen oder Hydrierungen unter relativ milden Bedingungen, etwa bei Zimmertemperatur.
Symposium „Forschung der Chemischen Industrie“ in Münster
Authors: Roling Lena , Sandfort Frederik
Published: September 2018

Am 17. Mai fand zum bereits siebten Mal das Symposium „Forschung der Chemischen Industrie“ (FoChIn) im Fachbereich Chemie und Pharmazie an der Universität Münster statt. Ziel der Veranstaltung war es, einen Austausch zwischen Industrie und Universität zu ermöglichen. Das Symposium gewährte mehr als 300 Chemieinteressierten vom Studienanfänger bis zum Professor Einblicke in die Forschung verschiedener Unternehmen der chemischen Industrie. Organisiert hatte die Veranstaltung Frank Glorius, Professor für organische Chemie. Finanziell unterstützten Industrieunternehmen und der Sonderforschungsbereich Synergistische Effekte in der Chemie (SFB 858).
Chemische Industrie: international verflochten
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: September 2018

Das Freihandelsabkommen zwischen der EU und Japan ist unterzeichnet. Abkommen mit China und Indonesien sollen folgen.