bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ist‐Zustandserfassung von Parkbauten in Betonbauweise
Authors: Bastert Heinrich
Published: April 2017

Schutz und Instandsetzung von Betonbauteilen haben im Bereich von Parkhäusern und Tiefgaragen aufgrund der dort herrschenden Beanspruchungen eine besondere Bedeutung. Dies gilt vorrangig für die Instandhaltung von solchen Parkdecks, die direkt befahren sind, da diese erheblichen Beanspruchungen aus Chloriden in Kombination mit wechselnd nassen und trockenen Umgebungsbedingungen ausgesetzt sind. Aus diesem Grund werden in der Planungsnorm Eurocode 2 (DIN EN 1992‐1‐1) bei direkt befahrenen Parkdecks auch zusätzliche Maßnahmen gefordert, die teilweise mit konkreten Wartungsintervallen und entsprechenden ‐konzepten verknüpft sind.

Eine Instandhaltung im Sinne der Richtlinie des Deutschen Ausschusses für Stahlbeton (DAfStb) besteht dabei nicht nur aus einer regelmäßigen Wartung, sondern auch aus ggf. erforderlichen Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen, um bei aufgetretenen Schäden oder Abnutzungen einen definierten Sollzustand herzustellen. Wichtigste Voraussetzung für die sachkundige Planung von Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen ist die Ist‐Zustandserfassung der betroffenen Betonbauteile. Dazu gehört selbstverständlich nicht nur die Aufnahme von augenfälligen Schadensbildern, sondern auch die eingehende Untersuchung von schadensträchtigen Betonbauteilen. Diese wird üblicherweise mittels einer Kombination aus zerstörungsfreien, zerstörungsarmen und zerstörenden Prüfungen durchgeführt.

Zur Konzeption der Ist‐Zustandserfassung von Betonbauteilen gehört u. a. eine fundierte und zielorientierte Auswahl von Verfahren und Verfahrenskombinationen, die für den jeweiligen Einsatz geeignet sind und sich in der Praxis bewährt haben. Neben der fachgerechten Durchführung von Untersuchungen kommt der Beurteilung und Interpretation der Prüfergebnisse eine wesentliche Bedeutung zu.

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die themenbezogenen Inhalte des neuen DBV‐Hefts 39 „Ist‐Zustandserfassung von Parkbauten in Betonbauweise”, welches diesen Fragen nachgeht und entsprechende Antworten bzw. Ansätze für Problemlösungen liefert. Die ausgewählten Themen richten sich an Auftraggeber, planende und überwachende Ingenieure und Bauausführende für Schutz‐ und Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen von Betonbauteilen.
Multistep Organic Transformations over Base‐Rhodium/Diamine‐Bifunctionalized Mesostructured Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Liao Hang , Chou Yajie , Wang Yu , Zhang Han , Cheng Tanyu , Liu Guohua
Published: April 2017

The assembly of multiple catalytic functionalities within a single mesoporous silica as a catalyst for multistep enantioselective organic transformations in an environmentally friendly medium is a significant challenge in heterogeneous asymmetric catalysis. Herein, we took advantage of a BF4− anion hydrogen bonding strategy to anchor a chiral cationic rhodium/diamine complex within base‐functionalized mesostructured silica nanoparticles conveniently to construct a bifunctional heterogeneous catalyst. The solid‐state 13C NMR spectrum discloses the well‐defined chiral Rh/diamine active species, and we used XRD, N2 adsorption–desorption, and electron microscopy to reveal the ordered mesostructure. The combination of bifunctionality in the silica nanoparticles enables two kinds of efficient enantioselective organic transformations with high yields and enantioselectivities, in which the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of α‐haloketones followed by epoxidation provides various chiral aryloxiranes, and the amination of α‐haloketones with anilines followed by asymmetric transfer hydrogenation produces various β‐amino alcohols. Furthermore, the catalyst can be recovered and recycled for seven times without a loss of catalytic activity, which is an attractive feature for multistep organic transformations in a sustainable benign process.
How Inter‐ and Intramolecular Reactions Dominate the Formation of Products in Lignin Pyrolysis
Authors: Custodis Victoria B. F. , Hemberger Patrick , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: April 2017

One of the key challenges in renewable chemical production is the conversion of lignin, especially by fast pyrolysis. The complexity of the lignin pyrolysis process has hindered the elucidation of the mechanism, inhibiting further industrial implementation. By combining pyrolysis of model compounds (4‐phenoxyphenol and 2‐methoxy‐phenoxybenzene) with lignin bond characteristics both under vacuum and under realistic pressure conditions, the roles of inter‐ and intramolecular reactions were established. On the one hand, the stable 4‐O‐5 ether bond enables, without breaking, C−C bond formation and even directly forms naphthalene depending on the position and type of the substituent. p‐Benzoquinone intermediates, on the other hand, are highly unstable at ambient pressure and directly decompose into coke and carbon monoxide. The system pressure (radical concentration) plays a crucial role in the dominant reaction mechanism by initiating intramolecular reactions, interfering with intramolecular reactions. H‐transfer and recombination reactions suppress the decarbonylation of phenoxy radicals, thus yielding a very different product distribution.
Zinkfinger gegen Fremd‐DNA
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: April 2017

Die größte Familie der Transkriptionsfaktoren im menschlichen Proteom gab der Forschung lange Rätsel auf. Nun stellt sich heraus, dass sie schon seit den Ursprüngen der Säugetier‐Evolution das Genom vor eingeschmuggelter Viren‐DNA und anderen beweglichen Elementen schützt
The effect of packing on direct contact evaporation in spray column
Authors: Hu Runzhi , Jin Yanchao , Huang Qunwu , Wang Yiping , Cui Yong
Published: April 2017

The direct contact evaporation in countercurrent spray column has been experimentally investigated. Two kinds of random packing were added into the column independently to study their influence on heat transfer process. Three different continuous phase flow rates (150, 200, 250 L/h) and two different dispersed flow rates (6.565, 13.13 L/h) were used in the experiment. The inlet continuous phase temperature ranged from 42 to 57 °C, and the inlet dispersed phase temperature was near its boiling point. The effect of variable factors on the optimal column height, the volumetric heat transfer coefficient, the pressure drop, and the thickness of foam layer were studied. The results showed that packing had positive effects on heat transfer, such as decreasing the optimal column height and the thickness of foam layer, increasing heat transfer coefficient. But extra pressure was also obvious. Dixon rings performed better than Raschig rings in the experiments due to their finer structure.
Contribution of the TP53 R337H mutation to the cancer burden in southern Brazil: Insights from the study of 55 families of children with adrenocortical tumors
Authors: Mastellaro Maria J. , Seidinger Ana L. , Kang Guolian , Abrahão Renata , Miranda Eliana C. M. , Pounds Stanley B. , Cardinalli Izilda A. , Aguiar Simone S. , Figueiredo Bonald C. , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Brandalise Silvia R. , Yunes José A. , Barros‐Filho Antônio de A. , Ribeiro Raul C.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

The tumor protein p53 (TP53) arginine‐to‐histidine mutation at codon 337 (R337H) predisposes children to adrenocortical tumors (ACTs) and, rarely, to other childhood tumors, but its impact on adult cancer remains undetermined. The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency and types of cancer in relatives of children with ACT who carry the TP53 R337H mutation.

METHODS

TP53 R337H testing was offered to relatives of probands with ACT. The parental lineage segregating the R337H mutation was identified in all families. The frequency and distribution of cancer types were compared according to R337H status. The authors' data also were compared with those publicly available for children with TP53 mutations other than R337H.

RESULTS

The mean and median follow‐up times for the probands with ACT were 11.2 years and 9.7 years (range, 3‐32 years), respectively. During this time, cancer was diagnosed in 12 of 81 first‐degree relatives (14.8%) carrying the R337H mutation but in only 1 of 94 noncarriers (1.1%; P = .0022). At age 45 years, the cumulative risk of cancer was 21% (95% confidence interval, 5%‐33%) in carriers and 2% (95% confidence interval, 0%‐4%) in noncarriers (P = .008). The frequency of cancer was higher in the R337H segregating lineages than in the nonsegregating lineages (249 of 1410 vs 66 of 984 individuals; P < .001). Breast and gastric cancer were the most common types.

CONCLUSIONS

TP53 R337H carriers have a lifelong predisposition to cancer with a bimodal age distribution: 1 peak, represented by ACT, occurs in the first decade of life, and another peak of diverse cancer types occurs in the fifth decade. The current findings have implications for genetic counseling and surveillance of R337H carriers. Cancer 2017;123:3150–58. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Characteristics and outcomes of older patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia according to treatment approach
Authors: Boddu Prajwal Chaitanya , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Ravandi Farhad , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Verstovsek Srdan , Jabbour Elias J. , Takahashi Koichi , Bhalla Kapil , Konopleva Marina , DiNardo Courtney D. , Ohanian Maro , Pemmaraju Naveen , Jain Nitin , Pierce Sherry , Wierda William G. , Cortes Jorge E. , Kadia Tapan M.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

The development of newer strategies to improve outcomes for older patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia (s‐AML) is a critical unmet need. Establishing baseline metrics for evaluating newer approaches is important.

METHODS

s‐AML was defined as 1 or more of the following: a history of an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD), a diagnosis of therapy‐related acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and AML with karyotype abnormalities characteristic of myelodysplastic syndrome. Newly diagnosed s‐AML patients aged 60 to 75 years were grouped into 5 treatment cohorts: 1) patients receiving high‐ or intermediate‐dose cytarabine–based intensive chemotherapy (IC), 2) patients receiving a hypomethylating agent (HMA) or HMA combinations, 3) patients receiving low‐dose cytarabine (LDAC) combinations, 4) patients receiving CPX‐351, and 5) patients receiving investigational (INV) agents. Nine hundred thirty‐one patients met the age and s‐AML criteria.

RESULTS

Complete remission rates were statistically lower in the HMA group (36%) versus the IC (46%), CPX‐351 (45%), and LDAC groups (43%). Patients receiving less intensive regimens (the HMA and LDAC groups combined) had superior overall survival (OS) in comparison with patients receiving IC‐based regimens (median 6.9 vs 5.4 months; P = .048). Only 4.3% of the IC patients proceeded to transplantation, whereas 10.3% of the patients on lower intensity regimens did (P = .001). There was no difference in median survival between patients treated with CPX‐351 and patients treated with conventional lower intensity approaches (P = .75). Age > 70 years, an adverse karyotype, and a prior AHD were associated with decreased OS in a multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower intensity approaches are associated with lower early mortality rates and improved OS in comparison with intensive regimens. OS is poor with currently available therapies with a median OS of 6 months (5.4‐7.6 months across regimens). Unsatisfactory outcomes with other INV agents underscore the need for more effective therapies. Cancer 2017;123:3050–60. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Three sides to a story: Child, parent, and nurse perspectives on the child's experience during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ullrich Christina K. , Rodday Angie Mae , Bingen Kristin M. , Kupst Mary Jo , Patel Sunita K. , Syrjala Karen L. , Harris Lynnette L. , Recklitis Christopher J. , Chang Grace , Guinan Eva C. , Terrin Norma , Tighiouart Hocine , Phipps Sean , Parsons Susan K.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

The experience of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), including the ways in which different participants (ie, children, parents, and nurses) contribute to the overall picture of a child's experience, is poorly characterized. This study evaluated parent, child, and nurse perspectives on the experience of children during HSCT and factors contributing to interrater differences.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled in a multicenter, prospective study evaluating child and parent health‐related quality of life over the year after HSCT. Children (n = 165) and their parents and nurses completed the Behavioral, Affective, and Somatic Experiences Scale (BASES) at baseline (before/during conditioning), 7 days after the stem cell infusion (day+7), and 21 days after the stem cell infusion (day+21). The BASES domains included Somatic Distress, Mood Disturbance, Cooperation, and Getting Along. Higher scores indicated more distress/impairment. Repeated measures models by domain assessed differences by raters and changes over time and identified other factors associated with raters' scores.

RESULTS

Completion rates were high (≥73% across times and raters). Multivariate models revealed significant time‐rater interactions, which varied by domain. For example, parent‐rated Somatic Distress scores increased from baseline to day+7 and remained elevated at day+21 (P < .001); children's scores were lower than parents' scores across time points. Nurses' baseline scores were lower than parents' baseline scores, although by day+21 they were similar. Older child age was associated with higher Somatic Distress and Mood Disturbance scores. Worse parent emotional functioning was associated with lower scores across raters and domains except for Cooperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Multirater assessments are highly feasible during HSCT. Ratings differ by several factors; considering ratings in light of such factors may deepen our understanding of the child's experience. Cancer 2017;123:3159–66. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Ludwigites: From natural mineral to modern solid solutions
Authors: Sofronova S. , Nazarenko I.
Published: April 2017

Ludwigites is a type of oxyborates compounds with BO3 groups, which have low‐dimensional elements: stairs, zigzag walls, tapes. Such structural features influence on the physical properties of the compounds and cause charge ordering, the existence of two magnetic subsystems, ordered at different temperatures in the perpendicular direction, the quasi‐one‐dimensional magnetism, spin‐glass state. In this survey, we have summarized all known experimental and theoretical studies and analyzed the proposed by the authors mechanisms of phase transitions in the ludwigite structure oxyborates.
Repurposing AM404 for the treatment of oral infections by Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Gerits Evelien , Spincemaille Pieter , De Cremer Kaat , De Brucker Katrijn , Beullens Serge , Thevissen Karin , Cammue Bruno P.A. , Vandamme Katleen , Fauvart Maarten , Verstraeten Natalie , Michiels Jan
Published: April 2017

Porphyromonas gingivalis is a major pathogen involved in oral diseases such as periodontitis and peri‐implantitis. Management of these diseases typically includes mechanical debridement of the colonized surfaces followed by application of antiseptics or antibiotics. Disadvantages associated with the use of antiseptics and the growing worldwide problem of antibiotic resistance have necessitated the search for alternative agents. In this study, the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of AM404, an active metabolite of paracetamol, were tested against P. gingivalis and other bacterial pathogens. The activity of AM404 was tested against 10 bacteria, including both oral and nonoral human pathogens. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AM404 was determined by measuring optical density (OD) values. The minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) was detected by crystal violet staining. The activity of structural analogs of AM404 was tested by MIC determinations. The effect of AM404 on P. gingivalis biofilms formed on titanium disks as a model for dental implants was evaluated by colony forming unit counting. Potential cytotoxicity of AM404 towards HEK‐293 (human embryonic kidney cells), HepG2 (human hepatoma cells), IEC‐6 (rat intestinal cells), and Panc‐1 cells (pancreatic cancer cells) was assessed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays. To get more insight in the mode of action of AM404, we used the fluorescent dyes N‐phenyl‐1‐napthylamine and SYTOX green to investigate outer and inner membrane damage of P. gingivalis induced by AM404, respectively. Of all tested pathogens, AM404 only inhibited growth and biofilm formation of P. gingivalis. Moreover, it showed potent activity against P. gingivalis biofilms formed on titanium surfaces. A structure–activity analysis demonstrated that the unsaturated carbon chain is essential for its antibacterial activity. Importantly, AM404 was not toxic towards the tested mammalian cells up to concentrations approaching 4× the MIC. Membrane damage assays using fluorescent probes N‐phenyl‐1‐napthylamine and SYTOX green revealed that membrane permeabilization presumably is the primary antibacterial mode of action of AM404. Collectively, our results suggest that AM404 has the potential to be used for the development of new drugs specifically targeting P. gingivalis‐related infections.
Estrogen signaling is necessary for exercise‐mediated enhancement of motoneuron participation in axon regeneration after peripheral nerve injury in mice
Authors: Acosta Melina C. , Copley Patricia A. , Harrell Jamie R. , Wilhelm Jennifer C.
Published: April 2017

Thousands of people each year suffer from peripheral nerve injury. Treatment options are limited, and recovery is often incomplete. Treadmill exercise can enhance nerve regeneration; however, this appears to occur in a sex‐dependent manner. Females respond best to short duration, high speed interval training; whereas, males respond best to slower, continuous training. Previous studies have shown a role for testosterone in this process, but the role of estrogen is unknown. To evaluate the role of estrogen signaling in treadmill exercise, we blocked estrogen receptor (ER) signaling during treadmill exercise in males and female wild type mice. The right common fibular (CF) branch of the sciatic nerve was cut and repaired with fibrin glue that contained the ER antagonist ICI 182,780. Estradiol‐filled or blank Silastic capsules were implanted subcutaneously at the time of nerve transection. Starting three days post‐transection, exercised mice received treadmill training using the paradigm appropriate to their sex 5 days a week for 2 weeks. Fourteen days after the initial nerve transection, motoneurons whose axons had regenerated at least 1.5 mm distal to the original cut sites were labeled with a retrograde tracer. Regeneration was quantified by counting the number of fluorescent labeled motoneurons in the lumbar region of the spinal cord. Both treadmill training and estradiol administration increased the number of motoneurons participating in axon regeneration, but these effects were blocked by ER antagonist treatment. Estrogen signaling is important for the enhancing effects of treadmill exercise on motoneuron participation after peripheral nerve cut. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1133–1143, 2017
Different categories of biodiversity explain productivity variation after fertilization in a Tibetan alpine meadow community
Authors: Zhou Xiaolong , Guo Zhi , Zhang Pengfei , Li Honglin , Chu Chengjin , Li Xilai , Du Guozhen
Published: April 2017

The relationship between productivity and biodiversity has long been an important issue in ecological research. However, in recent decades, most ecologists have primarily focused on species diversity while paying little attention to functional diversity and phylogenetic diversity (PD), especially in alpine meadow communities following fertilization. In this study, a fertilization experiment involving the addition of nitrogen, phosphorus, and a mixture of both was implemented in an alpine meadow on the Tibetan Plateau. Species diversity, functional diversity, andPDwere measured, and the responses of these parameters to the variation in productivity were analyzed. We found that the productivity of alpine plant communities was colimited by N and P, with N being the principal and P being the secondary limiting nutrient. Our results supported the prediction of both the mass ratio hypothesis and niche complementarity hypothesis in fertilized communities, but these hypotheses were not mutually exclusive. The combination of different aspects of biodiversity not only provides a crucial tool to explain the variation in productivity and to understand the underlying mechanisms but also plays an important role in predicting the variation in productivity of alpine meadow communities, which are sensitive to nutrient enrichment in the context of global change.
Epidemiology and one‐year outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure and preserved, mid‐range and reduced ejection fraction: an analysis of the ESC Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry
Authors: Chioncel Ovidiu , Lainscak Mitja , Seferovic Petar M. , Anker Stefan D. , Crespo‐Leiro Maria G. , Harjola Veli‐Pekka , Parissis John , Laroche Cecile , Piepoli Massimo Francesco , Fonseca Candida , Mebazaa Alexandre , Lund Lars , Ambrosio Giuseppe A. , Coats Andrew J. , Ferrari Roberto , Ruschitzka Frank , Maggioni Aldo P. , Filippatos Gerasimos
Published: April 2017

Aims

The objectives of the present study were to describe epidemiology and outcomes in ambulatory heart failure (HF) patients stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and to identify predictors for mortality at 1 year in each group.

Methods and results

The European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure Long‐Term Registry is a prospective, observational study collecting epidemiological information and 1‐year follow‐up data in 9134 HF patients. Patients were classified according to baseline LVEF into HF with reduced EF [EF <40% (HFrEF)], mid‐range EF [EF 40–50% (HFmrEF)] and preserved EF [EF >50% (HFpEF)]. In comparison with HFpEF subjects, patients with HFrEF were younger (64 years vs. 69 years), more commonly male (78% vs. 52%), more likely to have an ischaemic aetiology (49% vs. 24%) and left bundle branch block (24% vs. 9%), but less likely to have hypertension (56% vs. 67%) or atrial fibrillation (18% vs. 32%). The HFmrEF group resembled the HFrEF group in some features, including age, gender and ischaemic aetiology, but had less left ventricular and atrial dilation. Mortality at 1 year differed significantly between HFrEF and HFpEF (8.8% vs. 6.3%); HFmrEF patients experienced intermediate rates (7.6%). Age, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV status and chronic kidney disease predicted mortality in all LVEF groups. Low systolic blood pressure and high heart rate were predictors for mortality in HFrEF and HFmrEF. A lower body mass index was independently associated with mortality in HFrEF and HFpEF patients. Atrial fibrillation predicted mortality in HFpEF patients.

Conclusions

Heart failure patients stratified according to different categories of LVEF represent diverse phenotypes of demography, clinical presentation, aetiology and outcomes at 1 year. Differences in predictors for mortality might improve risk stratification and management goals.
Recovered heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and outcomes: a prospective study
Authors: Lupón Josep , Díez‐López Carles , de Antonio Marta , Domingo Mar , Zamora Elisabet , Moliner Pedro , González Beatriz , Santesmases Javier , Troya Maria I. , Bayés‐Genís Antoni
Published: April 2017

Aims

Significant recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) occurs in a proportion of patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We analysed outcomes, including mortality [all‐cause, cardiovascular (CV), HF‐related, and sudden death], and HF‐related hospitalizations in this HF‐recovered group. The primary endpoint was a composite of CV death or HF hospitalization.

Methods and results

LVEF was assessed at baseline and at 1 year in 1057 consecutive HF patients. Patients were classified into three groups: (i) HF‐recovered: LVEF <45% at baseline and ≥45% at 1 year (n = 233); (ii) HF with preserved EF (HFpEF): LVEF ≥45% throughout follow‐up (n = 117); and (iii) HFrEF: LVEF <45% throughout follow‐up (n = 707). Mean follow‐up was 5.6 ± 3.1 years. HF‐recovered patients differed from HFrEF and HFpEF groups in demographic and clinical characteristics. The mean LVEF increase was 21.1 ± 10 points in HF‐recovered patients. Using the HF‐recovered group as a reference, the risks for the primary composite endpoint (n = 376), with non‐CV death as competing risk, for HFpEF and HFrEF groups were: hazard ratio (HR) 2.33 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.60–3.39], P < 0.001 and HR 1.99 (95% CI 1.50–2.65), P < 0.001, respectively. All‐cause (n = 429), CV (n = 245), HF‐related (n = 127), and sudden death (n = 60) were significantly lower in HF‐recovered subjects relative to HFrEF (all P < 0.01). HF‐recovered patients also experienced less recurrent HF hospitalizations (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

One in four treated patients with HFrEF showed recovery of systolic function. HF‐recovered patients had significantly improved mortality and morbidity relative to HFpEF and HFrEF subjects. Further research is needed to identify optimal medications and device indications for HF‐recovered patients.
High Power Output Microbial Fuel Cell using Nitrogen and Iron Co‐Doped Carbon Nanospheres as Oxygen‐Reduction Catalyst
Authors: Shi Xinxin , Zhang Jiaona , Huang Tinglin
Published: April 2017

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), widely recognized as a promising technology, naturally combine the functions of green energy generation and wastewater treatment. Developing effective catalysts for the cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) to improve the power outputs of MFCs has aroused extensive research interests. To achieve a high‐performance MFC, low‐cost nitrogen and trace iron co‐doped porous carbon nanospheres (NFe/CNS) were synthesized in this work by using a facile method. The MFC using NFe/CNS as an ORR catalyst showed a maximum power density of 866.5±7 mW m−2, which is 24 % higher than that of a MFC using Pt/C as a catalyst. Moreover, compared with Pt/C, NFe/CNS demonstrated a stronger tolerance against acetate (a typical anodic fuel in MFCs) crossover and durability in the MFC neutral electrolyte. Benefiting from the outstanding catalytic properties of NFe/CNS, the normalized energy recovery of the MFC with NFe/CNS was two times higher than that of the MFC with Pt/C. These results demonstrated that NFe/CNS could be expected to be a practical and breakthrough catalyst for MFCs.
Von alten Knochen und neuen Beinen
Authors: Fröbisch Nadia B.
Published: April 2017

Wie Amphibien entstanden und sich entwickelten — auf diese alte Frage lässt sich durch die Verknüpfung evolutionsgeschichtlicher und paläontologischer Befunde neu blicken: Salamander sind dabei ein reizvolles Forschungsobjekt. Sie zeigen eine ganz außergewöhnliche Entwicklung ihrer Extremitäten bis hin zur Regeneration ganzer Gliedmaßen.
Systemic iron homeostasis and erythropoiesis
Authors: Papanikolaou George , Pantopoulos Kostas
Published: April 2017

Iron is an essential nutrient that is potentially toxic due to its redox reactivity. Insufficient iron supply to erythroid cells, the major iron consumers in the body, leads to various forms of anemia. On the other hand, iron overload (hemochromatosis) is associated with tissue damage and diseases of liver, pancreas, and heart. Physiological iron balance is tightly controlled at the cellular and systemic level by iron regulatory proteins (IRP1, IRP2) and the iron regulatory hormone hepcidin, respectively. Underlying mechanisms often intersect to achieve optimal iron utilization, to control immune responses, and to prevent iron toxicity. This review focuses on systemic iron homeostasis in the context of erythropoiesis, a highly iron‐demanding process. We discuss the function and regulation of hepcidin by various stimuli, and highlight hepcidin‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms that link iron utilization with maturation of erythroid progenitor cells. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(6):399–413, 2017
Recent strategies in cartilage repair: A systemic review of the scaffold development and tissue engineering
Authors: Rai Vikrant , Dilisio Matthew F. , Dietz Nicholas E. , Agrawal Devendra K.
Published: April 2017

Osteoarthritis results in irreparable loss of articular cartilage. Due to its avascular nature and low mitotic activity, cartilage has little intrinsic capacity for repair. Cartilage loss leads to pain, physical disability, movement restriction, and morbidity. Various treatment strategies have been proposed for cartilage regeneration, but the optimum treatment is yet to be defined. Tissue engineering with engineered constructs aimed towards developing a suitable substrate may help in cartilage regeneration by providing the mechanical, biological and chemical support to the cells. The use of scaffold as a substrate to support the progenitor cells or autologous chondrocytes has given promising results. Leakage of cells, poor cell survival, poor cell differentiation, inadequate integration into the host tissue, incorrect distribution of cells, and dedifferentiation of the normal cartilage are the common problems in tissue engineering. Current research is focused on improving mechanical and biochemical properties of scaffold to make it more efficient. The aim of this review is to provide a critical discussion on existing challenges, scaffold type and properties, and an update on ongoing recent developments in the architecture and composition of scaffold to enhance the proliferation and viability of mesenchymal stem cells. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2343–2354, 2017.
Anti‐Tumorigenic Potential of a Novel Orlistat‐AICAR Combination in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Wright Clayton , Iyer Anand Krishnan V. , Kaushik Vivek , Azad Neelam
Published: April 2017

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the leading causes of cancer‐related deaths in men worldwide. Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is reported to be overexpressed in several cancers including PCa, and this has led to clinical cancer treatments that utilize various FASN inhibitors such as the anti‐obesity drug, Orlistat. However, pharmacological limitations have impeded the progress in cancer treatments expected thus far with FASN inhibition. In this study, we investigated a novel therapeutic combination to enhance the toxic potential of Orlistat in three different PCa cell‐lines (DU145, PC3, and LNCaP). We show that Orlistat and 5‐Aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleotide (AICAR) (AMP‐activated protein kinase [AMPK] activator) co‐treatment induces significant downregulation of two key fatty acid synthesis regulatory proteins (FASN, Sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1 [SREBP‐1c]) as compared to control and Orlistat alone. Orlistat and AICAR co‐treatment induced a significant decrease in cell viability and proliferation, and a significant increase in apoptosis in all three PCa cell‐lines. Apoptosis induction was preceded by a marked increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production followed by G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and activation of pro‐apoptotic caspases. We also observed a significant decrease in migration potential and VEGF expression in Orlistat and AICAR co‐treated samples in all three PCa cell‐lines. Compound C (AMPK inhibitor) negatively affected some of the enhanced anti‐cancer effects observed with Orlistat treatment. We conclude that AICAR co‐treatment potentiates the anti‐proliferative effects of Orlistat at a low dose (100 µM), and this combination has the potential to be a viable and effective therapeutic option in PCa treatment. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3834–3845, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chick derived induced pluripotent stem cells by the poly‐cistronic transposon with enhanced transcriptional activity
Authors: Katayama Masafumi , Hirayama Takashi , Tani Tetsuya , Nishimori Katsuhiko , Onuma Manabu , Fukuda Tomokazu
Published: April 2017

Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology lead terminally differentiated cells into the pluripotent stem cells through the expression of defined reprogramming factors. Although, iPS cells have been established in a number of mammalian species, including mouse, human, and monkey, studies on iPS cells in avian species are still very limited. To establish chick iPS cells, six factors were used within the poly‐cistronic reprogramming vector (PB‐R6F), containing M3O (MyoD derived transactivation domain fused with Oct3/4), Sox2, Klf4, c‐Myc, Lin28, and Nanog. The PB‐R6F derived iPS cells were alkaline‐phosphatase and SSEA‐1 positive, which are markers of pluripotency. Elevated levels of endogenous Oct3/4 and Nanog genes were detected in the established iPS cells, suggesting the activation of the FGF signaling pathway is critical for the pluripotent status. Histological analysis of teratoma revealed that the established chick iPS cells have differentiation ability into three‐germ‐layer derived tissues. This is the first report of establishment of avian derived iPS cells with a single poly‐cistronic transposon based expression system. The establishment of avian derived iPS cells could contribute to the genetic conservation and modification of avian species.
Parent‐Metabolite Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Pharmacodynamics of Veliparib (ABT‐888), a PARP Inhibitor, in Patients With BRCA 1/2–Mutated Cancer or PARP‐Sensitive Tumor Types
Authors: Niu Jing , Scheuerell Christie , Mehrotra Shailly , Karan Sharon , Puhalla Shannon , Kiesel Brian F. , Ji Jiuping , Chu Edward , Gopalakrishnan Mathangi , Ivaturi Vijay , Gobburu Jogarao , Beumer Jan H.
Published: April 2017

Veliparib (ABT‐888) is a novel oral poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor that is being developed for the treatment of hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Although the pharmacokinetics of veliparib have been studied in combination with cytotoxic agents, limited information exists regarding the pharmacokinetics (PK) of chronically dosed single‐agent veliparib in patients with either BRCA 1/2–mutated cancer or PARP‐sensitive tumors. The objectives of the current analysis were to characterize the population pharmacokinetics of veliparib and its primary, active metabolite, M8, and to evaluate the relationship between veliparib and M8 concentrations and poly‐ADP‐ribose (PAR) level observed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Seventy‐one subjects contributed with veliparib plasma concentrations, M8 plasma concentrations, and PAR levels in PBMCs. Veliparib and M8 concentrations were modeled simultaneously using a population PK approach. A 2‐compartment model with delayed first‐order absorption and the elimination parameterized as renal (CLR/F) and nonrenal clearance (CLNR/F) adequately described veliparib pharmacokinetics. The pharmacokinetics of the M8 metabolite was described with a 2‐compartment model. Creatinine clearance(CLCR) and lean body mass (LBM) were identified as significant predictors of veliparib CLR/F and central volume of distribution, respectively. For a typical subject (LBM, 48 kg; CLCR, 95 mL/min), total clearance (CLR/F + CLNR/F), and central and peripheral volume of distribution for veliparib were estimated as 17.3 L/h, 98.7 L, and 48.3 L, respectively. At least 50% inhibition of PAR levels in PBMCs was observed at dose levels ranging from 50 to 500 mg.
Red mud as secondary source for critical raw materials – extraction study
Authors: Ujaczki Éva , Zimmermann Yannick S , Gasser Christoph A , Molnár Mónika , Feigl Viktória , Lenz Markus
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Red mud is a by‐product of alumina extraction from bauxite by the Bayer process produced in the billion tons scale worldwide. Red muds, or more generally bauxite residues, are regarded as waste, but may potentially be valuable sources of critical raw materials (CRM). In the present study both conventional extracting agents (mineral acids) and small molecular weight complexing agents (organic acids) were evaluated regarding their efficiency to extract CRM such as rare earth elements (REEs) from red mud. On a molar base, highest extraction efficiencies for REEs were achieved using HCl compared with the other acids investigated. Consequently, an experimental design approach was used to determine optimal conditions for CRM extraction using HCl. Instead of maximizing the extraction of a number of selected metals, the maximum economic potential as the sum of all metals (total metal extracted × economic value of the respective metal) was chosen as the application relevant response variable. Four explanatory variables (i.e. HCl concentration, contact time, temperature and slurry concentration) were used.

RESULTS

Optimal conditions maximizing the economic potential were predicted for 5.98 mol L−1 HCl, 21 h contact time, 50°C, and 56.7 g L−1 slurry concentration. Indeed, experimentally determined economic potential corresponded well (71% of predicted) with the predictions, allowing a maximum recovery of 297.6 US $ t−1.

CONCLUSION

Though the studied red muds were relatively low in CRM concentrations, the systematic approach developed here allows straightforward transfer to other red muds, harnessing the potential of the latter as important secondary source for CRM. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Collagen V haploinsufficiency in a murine model of classic Ehlers–Danlos syndrome is associated with deficient structural and mechanical healing in tendons
Authors: Johnston Jessica M. , Connizzo Brianne K. , Shetye Snehal S. , Robinson Kelsey A. , Huegel Julianne , Rodriguez Ashley B. , Sun Mei , Adams Sheila M. , Birk David E. , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: April 2017

Classic Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) patients suffer from connective tissue hyperelasticity, joint instability, skin hyperextensibility, tissue fragility, and poor wound healing due to heterozygous mutations in COL5a1 or COL5a2 genes. This study investigated the roles of collagen V in establishing structure and function in uninjured patellar tendons as well as in the injury response using a Col5a1+/− mouse, a model for classic EDS. These analyses were done comparing tendons from a classic EDS model (Col5a1+/−) with wild‐type controls. Tendons were subjected to mechanical testing, histological, and fibril analysis before injury as well as 3 and 6 weeks after injury. We found that Col5a1+/− tendons demonstrated diminished recovery of mechanical competency after injury as compared to normal wild‐type tendons, which recovered their pre‐injury values by 6 weeks post injury. Additionally, the Col5a1+/−tendons demonstrated altered fibril morphology and diameter distributions compared to the wild‐type tendons. This study indicates that collagen V plays an important role in regulating collagen fibrillogenesis and the associated recovery of mechanical integrity in tendons after injury. In addition, the dysregulation with decreased collagen V expression in EDS is associated with a diminished injury response. The results presented herein have the potential to direct future targeted therapeutics for classic EDS patients. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2707–2715, 2017.
Stability of small pegs for cementless implant fixation
Authors: Geraldes Diogo M. , Hansen Ulrich , Jeffers Jonathan , Amis Andrew A.
Published: April 2017

Most glenoid implants rely on large centrally located fixation features to avoid perforation of the glenoid vault in its peripheral regions. Upon revision of such components there may not be enough bone left for the reinsertion of an anatomical prosthesis. Multiple press‐fit small pegs would allow for less bone resection and strong anchoring in the stiffer and denser peripheral subchondral bone. This study assessed the fixation characteristics, measured as the push‐in (Pin) and pull‐out (Pout) forces, and spring‐back, measured as the elastic displacement immediately after insertion, for five different small press‐fitted peg configurations manufactured out of UHMWPE cylinders (5 mm diameter and length). A total of 16 specimens for each configuration were tested in two types of solid bone substitute: Hard (40 PCF, 0.64 g/cm3, worst‐case scenario of Pin) and soft (15 PCF, 0.24 g/cm3, worst‐case scenario of spring‐back and Pout). Two different diametric interference‐fits were studied. Geometries with lower stiffness fins (large length to width aspect ratio) were the best performing designs in terms of primary fixation stability. They required the lowest force to fully seat, meaning they are less damaging to the bone during implantation, while providing the highest Pout/Pin ratio, indicating that when implanted they provide the strongest anchoring for the glenoid component. It is highlighted that drilling of chamfered holes could minimize spring‐back displacements. These findings are relevant for the design of implants press‐fitted pegs because primary fixation has been shown to be an important factor in achieving osseointegration and longevity of secondary fixation. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2765–2772, 2017.
Intraoperative biomechanics of lumbar pedicle screw loosening following successful arthrodesis
Authors: Pearson Hope B. , Dobbs Christopher J. , Grantham Eric , Niebur Glen L. , Chappuis James L. , Boerckel Joel D.
Published: April 2017

Pedicle screw loosening has been implicated in recurrent back pain after lumbar spinal fusion, but the degree of loosening has not been systematically quantified in patients. Instrumentation removal is an option for patients with successful arthrodesis, but remains controversial. Here, we quantified pedicle screw loosening by measuring screw insertion and/or removal torque at high statistical power (beta = 0.02) in N = 108 patients who experienced pain recurrence despite successful fusion after posterior instrumented lumbar fusion with anterior lumbar interbody fusion (L2–S1). Between implantation and removal, pedicle screw torque was reduced by 58%, indicating significant loosening over time. Loosening was greater in screws with evoked EMG threshold under 11 mA, indicative of screw misplacement. A theoretical stress analysis revealed increased local stresses at the screw interface in pedicles with decreased difference in pedicle thickness and screw diameter. Loosening was greatest in vertebrae at the extremities of the fused segments, but was significantly lower in segments with one level of fusion than in those with two or more. Clinical significance: These data indicate that pedicle screws can loosen significantly in patients with recurrent back pain and warrant further research into methods to reduce the incidence of screw loosening and to understand the risks and potential benefits of instrumentation removal. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2673–2681, 2017.
Remote measurement of sunflower seed moisture content by the use of microwaves
Authors: Litvischenko Vitali L , Nikiforov Igor Ya , Ershov Igor V
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Modern agriculture demands new methods and equipment that allow operators to conduct the instant control of moisture content over a wide area of agricultural fields with the purpose of providing farmers with the optimal moment of harvesting mature seeds and crops. Here the authors propose a new method and experimentally investigate the possibility to accomplish remote sensing of the moisture content of sunflower seeds using microwave radiation in the millimeter range.

RESULTS

An experimental device for measuring the coefficient of reflection of electromagnetic waves from sunflower inflorescences in the frequency range 25.9–37.5 GHz was created. The obtained results showed that the moisture content of mature sunflower seeds affected the reflected signal. A difference in the reflected signal from the front and back sides of unripe sunflower inflorescences was also found.

CONCLUSION

The results show that microwave radiation can be used to determine the degree of readiness of seeds for harvesting. The proposed new method opens up the possibility of remote instant diagnosis of sunflower seed ripeness in the field. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Can sesame consumption improve blood pressure? A systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled trials
Authors: Khosravi‐Boroujeni Hossein , Nikbakht Elham , Natanelov Ernesta , Khalesi Saman
Published: April 2017

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, myocardial infarction, stroke and renal failure. Sesame consumption may benefit blood pressure (BP) owing to its high polyunsaturated fatty acid, fibre, phytosterol and lignan contents. To clarify this, a systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled trials was conducted. The PubMed (MEDLINE), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Cochrane Library (Central) databases were systematically searched until August 2016. Eight controlled trials with a total of 843 participants met the eligibility criteria. A random effect meta‐analysis showed that sesame consumption can reduce systolic BP (−7.83 mmHg, 95% CI: −14.12, −1.54; P < 0.05, I2 = 99%) and diastolic BP (−5.83 mmHg, 95% CI: −9.58, −2.08; P < 0.01, I2 = 98%). To reduce the heterogeneity, the meta‐analysis was limited to high methodology quality trials (n = 4), which resulted in a significant reduction in systolic BP (−3.23 mmHg, 95% CI: −5.67, −0.79; I2 = 33%) and a non‐significant reduction in diastolic BP (−2.08 mmHg, 95% CI: −4.85, 0.69; I2 = 62%). This study concluded that sesame consumption can reduce systolic and diastolic BP. However, further investigations with larger sample sizes and better methodology quality are required to confirm the BP‐lowering effect of sesame consumption. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
An occupancy approach to monitoring regent honeyeaters
Authors: Crates Ross , Terauds Aleks , Rayner Laura , Stojanovic Dejan , Heinsohn Robert , Ingwersen Dean , Webb Matthew
Published: April 2017

Conservation of rare and highly mobile species is frequently limited by a lack of monitoring data. Critically endangered regent honeyeaters (Anthochaera phrygia, population 350–400) pose a substantial conservation challenge because of their high mobility and irregular settlement throughout their estimated 600,000‐km2 range. Given an ongoing population decline, enhanced monitoring efforts to inform population management are needed. We conducted an occupancy survey of regent honeyeaters and other nectarivores over 880 km2 of the species' core range in New South Wales, Australia, during spring 2015. We located approximately 70 regent honeyeaters, potentially representing 20% of the population. Presence of regent honeyeaters was best predicted by high local nectar abundance. Detectability of regent honeyeaters when breeding (0.59) was similar to common, co‐occurring nectarivores and was sufficient to distinguish absence from non‐detection. For rare and highly mobile species, monitoring approaches that prioritize sampling extent over site visit duration and explicitly accommodate their life‐history attributes can provide valuable population data, with subsequent benefits for conservation. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.