bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal neuronal plasticity in song‐control and auditory forebrain areas in subtropical nonmigratory and palearctic‐indian migratory male songbirds
Authors: Surbhi  , Rastogi Ashutosh , Malik Shalie , Rani Sangeeta , Kumar Vinod
Published: March 2016

This study examines whether differences in annual life‐history states (LHSs) among the inhabitants of two latitudes would have an impact on the neuronal plasticity of the song‐control system in songbirds. At the times of equinoxes and solstices during the year (n = 4 per year) corresponding to different LHSs, we measured the volumetric changes and expression of doublecortin (DCX; an endogenous marker of the neuronal recruitment) in the song‐control nuclei and higher order auditory forebrain regions of the subtropical resident Indian weaverbirds (Ploceus philippinus) and Palearctic‐Indian migratory redheaded buntings (Emberiza bruniceps). Area X in basal ganglia, lateral magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium (LMAN), HVC (proper name), and robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA) were enlarged during the breeding LHS. Both round and fusiform DCX‐immunoreactive (DCX‐ir) cells were found in area X and HVC but not in LMAN or RA, with a significant seasonal difference. Also, as shown by increase in volume and by dense, round DCX‐ir cells, the neuronal incorporation was increased in HVC alone during the breeding LHS. This suggests differences in the response of song‐control nuclei to photoperiod‐induced changes in LHSs. Furthermore, DCX immunoreactivity indicated participation of the cortical caudomedial nidopallium and caudomedial mesopallium in the song‐control system, albeit with differences between the weaverbirds and the buntings. Overall, these results show seasonal neuronal plasticity in the song‐control system closely associated with annual reproductive LHS in both of the songbirds. Differences between species probably account for the differences in the photoperiod‐response system between the relative refractory weaverbirds and absolute refractory redheaded buntings. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:2914–2929, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improved Efficiency of Molecular‐Gel Formation by Adjusting Preorganization of Amino‐Acid‐Derived Flexible Molecules: A NMR and Thermodynamic study
Authors: Angulo‐Pachón César A. , Gascó‐Catalán Carolina , Ojeda‐Flores Juan J. , Miravet Juan F.
Published: March 2016

The efficiency of the formation of molecular gels of simple derivatives of l‐valine and l‐isoleucine is greatly improved in different organic solvents when a hexyl fragment is replaced by a bulkier cyclohexyl one. A study using NMR and IR spectroscopy provides information on the preferred conformations of the molecules, indicating that the cyclohexyl moiety precludes intramolecular H bonding and preorganises the system for intermolecular interactions, which are responsible for fiber formation. NMR data of the gels provides thermodynamic data on fibrillization, revealing that the origin of this effect is mainly entropic. Electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) images show fibrillar and tape‐like objects, which are observed commonly in molecular gels. Rheological measurements reveal significant differences between cyclohexyl and hexyl appended gelators. These findings could contribute to the rational design of small, flexible, building blocks for self‐assembly.
Three dimensional numerical study of the effect of large Grashof number on HEM crystal growth
Authors: Haddad F. , Mokhtari F. , Benzaoui A.
Published: March 2016

Heat transfer and fluid flow in HEM crystal growth of silicon in cylindrical cavity is studied numerically. The walls of the crucible are heated to a fixed temperature. The exchanger that causes and induces natural convection is seated at the middle‐bottom of the crucible. The finite‐volume method is employed to solve the governing equations with proper boundary conditions. The effects of transport mechanism on the temperature distribution, melt flow, pressure and stream function are presented. We focus our work on the pressure field which has not yet been studied in HEM crucible. Also, we extend our work on a wide range Grashof number and for large numbers until 1012 not yet studied in HEM furnace. It is found that the onset of flow fluctuations appears at Gr = 1010. Uniform temperature is observed in the entire melt at high Grashof number with development of a thermal boundary layer close to the exchanger. The thermal boundary layer thickness is calculated for strong buoyancy regime. Besides, for very high Gr number, buoyancy has less effect on temperature and then on melt‐crystal interface shape. During enlarging Gr, pressure evolution is related to temperature variation more than flow pattern.
Effect of Potassium on the Mechanisms of Biomass Pyrolysis Studied using Complementary Analytical Techniques
Authors: Le Brech Yann , Ghislain Thierry , Leclerc Sébastien , Bouroukba Mohammed , Delmotte Luc , Brosse Nicolas , Snape Colin , Chaimbault Patrick , Dufour Anthony
Published: March 2016

Complementary analytical methods have been used to study the effect of potassium on the pyrolysis mechanisms of cellulose and lignocellulosic biomasses. Thermogravimetry, calorimetry, high‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy (in situ and real‐time analysis of the fluid phase formed during pyrolysis), and water extraction of quenched char followed by size‐exclusion chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry have been combined. Potassium impregnated in cellulose suppresses the formation of anhydrosugars, reduces the formation of mobile protons, and gives rise to a mainly exothermic signal. The evolution of mobile protons formed from K‐impregnated cellulose has a very similar pattern to the evolution of the mass loss rate. This methodology has been also applied to analyze miscanthus, demineralized miscanthus, miscanthus re‐impregnated with potassium after demineralization, raw oak, and Douglas fir. Hydrogen mobility and transfer are of high importance in the mechanisms of biomass pyrolysis.
flowClean: Automated identification and removal of fluorescence anomalies in flow cytometry data
Authors: Fletez‐Brant Kipper , Špidlen Josef , Brinkman Ryan R. , Roederer Mario , Chattopadhyay Pratip K.
Published: March 2016

Modern flow cytometry systems can be coupled to plate readers for high‐throughput acquisition. These systems allow hundreds of samples to be analyzed in a single day. Quality control of the data remains challenging, however, and is further complicated when a large number of parameters is measured in an experiment. Our examination of 29,228 publicly available FCS files from laboratories worldwide indicates 13.7% have a fluorescence anomaly. In particular, fluorescence measurements for a sample over the collection time may not remain stable due to fluctuations in fluid dynamics; the impact of instabilities may differ between samples and among parameters. Therefore, we hypothesized that tracking cell populations (which represent a summary of all parameters) in centered log ratio space would provide a sensitive and consistent method of quality control. Here, we present flowClean, an algorithm to track subset frequency changes within a sample during acquisition, and flag time periods with fluorescence perturbations leading to the emergence of false populations. Aberrant time periods are reported as a new parameter and added to a revised data file, allowing users to easily review and exclude those events from further analysis. We apply this method to proof‐of‐concept datasets and also to a subset of data from a recent vaccine trial. The algorithm flags events that are suspicious by visual inspection, as well as those showing more subtle effects that might not be consistently flagged by investigators reviewing the data manually, and out‐performs the current state‐of‐the‐art. flowClean is available as an R package on Bioconductor, as a module on the free‐to‐use GenePattern web server, and as a plugin for FlowJo X. © 2016 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Real time kinetic flow cytometry measurements of cellular parameter changes evoked by nanosecond pulsed electric field
Authors: Orbán Csaba , Pérez‐García Esther , Bajnok Anna , McBean Gethin , Toldi Gergely , Blanco‐Fernandez Alfonso
Published: March 2016

Nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) is a novel method to increase cell proliferation rate. The phenomenon is based on the microporation of cellular organelles and membranes. However, we have limited information on the effects of nsPEF on cell physiology. Several studies have attempted to describe the effects of this process, however no real time measurements have been conducted to date. In this study we designed a model system which allows the measurement of cellular processes before, during and after nsPEF treatment in real time. The system employs a Vabrema MitoplicatorTM nsPEF field generating instrument connected to a BD Accuri C6 cytometer with a silicon tube led through a peristaltic pump. This model system was applied to observe the effects of nsPEF in mammalian C6 glioblastoma (C6 glioma) and HEK‐293 cell lines. Viability (using DRAQ7 dye), intracellular calcium levels (using Fluo‐4 dye) and scatter characteristics were measured in a kinetic manner. Data were analyzed using the FACSKin software. The viability and morphology of the investigated cells was not altered upon nsPEF treatment. The response of HEK‐293 cells to ionomycin as positive control was significantly lower in the nsPEF treated samples compared to non‐treated cells. This difference was not observed in C6 cells. FSC and SSC values were not altered significantly by the nsPEF treatment. Our results indicate that this model system is capable of reliably investigating the effects of nsPEF on cellular processes in real time. © 2016 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Reliability of immunocytochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization on fine‐needle aspiration cytology samples of breast cancers: A comparative study
Authors: Acs Balazs , Szekely Nora , Szasz Attila Marcell , Lotz Gabor , Szekely Tamas , Istok Roland , Szekely Eszter , Madaras Lilla , Kulka Janina , Jaray Balazs
Published: March 2016

Introduction

To characterize breast tumors and metastases, fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAB) can be a favorable first choice. However, the diagnostic accuracy of ancillary tests applied to FNAB samples is yet to be validated.

Patients and Methods

We examined 110 breast cancer patients' paired cytological and surgical resection specimens evaluated between 2005 and 2014. Comparison of ER and Her2 immunocytochemical (ICC) and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed.

Results

Significant difference (p < 0.001) and moderate correlation (κ = 0.446) were noted between results of 97 paired ICC an IHC reactions for ER expression. ICC for ER status had a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 100%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 38.2%. Significant difference (p = 0.012) and moderate correlation (κ = 0.541) were found between results of 77 paired ICC an IHC reactions for Her2 expression. The Her2 ICC had a sensitivity of 54%, specificity of 95.4%, PPV of 66.7%, and NPV of 92.6%. The results of FISH carried out on 23 paired samples of FNAB and surgical specimens indicated perfect correlation (κ = 1.000) and no significant difference (p = 1.000). FISH performed on FNAB has sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 100%.

Conclusion

The correlation of ICC and IHC is moderate regarding ER and Her2 expression of the same tumor. FISH performed on FNAB samples is suitable to categorize primary and metastatic breast cancer in regard of HER2 gene amplification status and can be used as a predictive test in respect of therapies targeting HER2. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:466–471. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of subdividing the “atypical” category for urinary cytology on patient management
Authors: Glass Ryan , Cocker Rubina , Rosen Lisa , Coutsouvelis Constantinos , Chau Karen , Slim Farah , Brenkert Ryan , Sheikh‐Fayyaz Silvat , Farmer Peter , Das Kasturi
Published: March 2016

Introduction

The purpose of the study is to determine the impact of subdividing the “atypical” cytology interpretation into two groups: Atypical urothelial cells of uncertain significance (AUC‐US) and Atypical urothelial cells suspicious for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (AUC‐H/SHGUC), on management of patients with no prior history of UC.

Materials and method

This is a retrospective study of “atypical” urine cytology with subsequent tissue examination occurring within six months. Cytology reports with “atypical” interpretation were reclassified into AUS‐UC and AUC‐H based on morphologic features identified by the Johns Hopkins system and the Paris system for urine cytology. Follow‐up and categorical outcomes were compared between the reclassified AUC‐US and AUC‐H groups.

Results

There was no significant difference (P < 0.4539) in the rate of cytology follow‐up, the follow‐up cytology result (P < 0.1845), or time between follow‐up cytologies (P < 0.0869) between the reclassified atypical group of AUC‐H and AUC‐US. There was a significant association (P < 0.0001) of rate of malignancy with the reclassified AUC‐H (87.18%) compared to the AUC‐US (58.68%) groups.

Conclusion

There was no difference in follow‐up between the AUC‐H and AUC‐US, however there was a difference in the rates of malignancy in the two groups. The AUC‐H group is similar to the SHGUC group of the Paris system and can be considered as such, whereas the AUC‐US group should continue to be considered atypical. We conclude that reclassification of the “atypical” category into AUC‐US and AUC‐H/SHGUC can reduce the rate of atypia and help in focused follow‐up and targeted management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:477–482. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 and vitamin D: anti‐inflammatory response in diabetic kidney disease in db/db mice and in cultured endothelial cells
Authors: Einbinder Yael , Ohana Meital , Benchetrit Sydney , Zehavi Tania , Nacasch Naomi , Bernheim Jacques , Zitman‐Gal Tali
Published: March 2016

Background

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is a gut incretin hormone that stimulates insulin secretion and may affect the inflammatory pathways involved in diabetes mellitus. Calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D, plays an important role in renal, endothelial and cardiovascular protection. We evaluated the anti‐inflammatory and histologic effects of a GLP‐1 analogue (liraglutide) and of calcitriol in a db/db mouse diabetes model and in endothelial cells exposed to a diabetes‐like environment.

Methods

Diabetic db/db mice were treated with liraglutide and calcitriol for 14 weeks, after which the kidneys were perfused and removed for mRNA and protein analysis and histology. Endothelial cells were stimulated with advanced glycation end products (AGEs), glucose, liraglutide and calcitriol. Total RNA and protein were extracted and analysed for the expression of selected inflammatory markers.

Results

Typical histological changes, glomerular enlargement and mesangial expansion were seen in db/db mice compared with control mice. Glomerular hypertrophy was ameliorated with liraglutide, compared with db/db controls. Liraglutide up‐regulated endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein expression compared with the db/db control group and down‐regulated p65 protein expression. Calcitriol did not further improve the beneficial effect observed on protein expression. In endothelial cells, liraglutide treatment exhibited a dose‐dependent ability to prevent an inflammatory response in the selected markers: thioredoxin‐interacting protein, p65, IL6 and IL8. In most gene and protein expressions, addition of calcitriol did not enhance the effect of liraglutide.

Conclusions

The GLP‐1 analogue liraglutide prevented the inflammatory response observed in endothelial cells exposed to a diabetes‐like environment and in db/db mice at the level of protein expression and significantly ameliorated the glomerular hypertrophy seen in the diabetic control group. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics of nebulized and oral procaterol in asthmatic and non‐asthmatic subjects in relation to doping analysis
Authors: Krogh Nanna , Backer Vibeke , Rzeppa Sebastian , Hemmersbach Peter , Hostrup Morten
Published: March 2016

The purpose of the present study was to investigate pharmacokinetics of procaterol in asthmatics and non‐asthmatics after nebulized and oral administration in relation to doping. Ten asthmatic and ten non‐asthmatic subjects underwent two pharmacokinetic trials. At first trial, 4 µg procaterol was administered as nebulization. At second trial, 100 µg procaterol was administered orally. Serum and urine samples were collected before and after administration of procaterol. Samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Serum and urine concentrations of procaterol were markedly higher after oral administration compared to nebulized administration. After oral administration, serum procaterol concentration‐time area under the curve (AUC) was higher (P ≤ 0.05) for asthmatics than non‐asthmatics. Likewise, urine concentrations were higher (P ≤ 0.01) for asthmatics than non‐asthmatics 4 (47 ± 12 vs. 28 ± 9 ng/mL) and 8 h (39 ± 9 vs. 15 ± 5 ng/mL) after oral administration. Detection of serum procaterol was difficult after nebulized administration with 38 samples (27%) below limit of quantification (LOQ) and only trends were observed. No differences were observed between asthmatics and non‐asthmatics in the urine concentrations of procaterol after nebulized administration. In summary, our data showed that asthmatics had higher urine concentrations of procaterol than non‐asthmatics after oral administration of 100 µg, whereas no difference was observed between the groups after nebulized administration. For doping control purposes, our observations indicate that it is possible to differentiate therapeutic nebulized administration of procaterol from prohibited use of oral procaterol. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specific characterization of non‐steroidal selective androgen peceptor modulators using supercritical fluid chromatography coupled to ion‐mobility mass spectrometry: application to the detection of enobosarm in bovine urine
Authors: Beucher Laure , Dervilly‐Pinel Gaud , Cesbron Nora , Penot Mylène , Gicquiau Audrey , Monteau Fabrice , Le Bizec Bruno
Published: March 2016

Currently under development for therapeutic purposes in human medicine, non‐steroidal selective androgen receptor modulators (non‐steroidal SARMs) are also known to impact growth associated pathways. As such, they present a potential for abuse in sports and food‐producing animals as interesting alternative anabolic substances. Forbidden since 2008 by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) these compounds are however easily available and could be (mis)used in livestock production as growth promoters. To prevent such practices, dedicated analytical strategies have to be developed for specific and sensitive detection of these compounds in biological matrices. Using an innovative analytical platform constituted of supercritical fluid chromatography coupled to ion mobility‐mass spectrometry, the present study enabled efficient separation and identification in urine of 4 of these drugs (andarine, bicalutamide, hydroxyflutamide, and enobosarm) in accordance with European Union criteria (Commission Decision 2002/657/EC). Besides providing information about compounds structure and behaviour in gas phase, such a coupling enabled reaching low limits of detection (LOD < 0.05 ng.mL−1 for andarine and limits of detection < 0.005 ng.mL−1 for the three others) in urine with good repeatability (CV < 21 %). The workflow has been applied to quantitative determination of enobosarm elimination in urine of treated bovine (200 mg, oral). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The detection of flunitrazepam in beverages using portable Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ali Esam M. A. , Edwards Howell G.M.
Published: March 2016

Portable Raman spectroscopy has been used for the detection of the date‐rape drug flunitrazepam in spiked beverages that may be involved in cases of drug‐facilitated sexual assault. Solutions of flunitrazepam with different concentrations were prepared in water and for each beverage type. Although some bands attributable to the beverage matrix are present, they did not interfere with the identification of the drug. Definitive evidence for contamination of the spiked drink concerned can be acquired within 10 s. The data can be acquired in situ and sample extraction and/or preparation steps are unnecessary. The ability of portable Raman spectrometers to interrogate spiked alcoholic beverages with flunitrazepam has been demonstrated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vertebrate Claudin/PMP22/EMP22/MP20 family protein TMEM47 regulates epithelial cell junction maturation and morphogenesis
Authors: Dong Yi , Simske Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2016

Background: TMEM47 is the vertebrate orthologue of C. elegans VAB‐9, a tetraspan adherens junction protein in the PMP22/EMP/Claudin family of proteins. VAB‐9 regulates cell morphology and adhesion in C. elegans and TMEM47 is expressed during kidney development and regulates the activity of Fyn. The conserved functions of VAB‐9 and TMEM47 are not well understood. Results: expression of TMEM47 in C. elegans functionally rescues vab‐9 mutations. Unlike Claudins, expression of TMEM47 in L fibroblasts does not generate tight junction strands; instead, membrane localization requires E‐cadherin expression. Temporally, TMEM47 localizes at cell junctions first with E‐cadherin before ZO‐1 colocalization and in polarized epithelia, TMEM47 colocalizes with adherens junction proteins. By immunoprecipitation, TMEM47 associates with classical adherens junction proteins, but also with tight junction proteins Par6B and aPKCλ. Over‐expression of TMEM47 in MDCK cells decreases apical surface area, increases activated myosin light chain at cell–cell contacts, disrupts cell polarity and morphology, delays cell junction reassembly following calcium switch, and selectively interferes with tight junction assembly. Reduced TMEM47 expression results in opposite phenotypes. Conclusions: TMEM47 regulates the localization of a subset of tight junction proteins, associated actomyosin structures, cell morphology, and participates in developmental transitions from adherens to tight junctions. Developmental Dynamics 245:653–666, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic correlations and little genetic variance for reaction norms may limit potential for adaptation to pollution by ionic and nanoparticulate silver in a whitefish (Salmonidae)
Authors: Clark Emily S. , Pompini Manuel , Uppal Anshu , Wedekind Claus
Published: March 2016

For natural populations to adapt to anthropogenic threats, heritable variation must persist in tolerance traits. Silver nanoparticles, the most widely used engineered nanoparticles, are expected to increase in concentrations in freshwaters. Little is known about how these particles affect wild populations, and whether genetic variation persists in tolerance to permit rapid evolutionary responses. We sampled wild adult whitefish and crossed them in vitro full factorially. In total, 2896 singly raised embryos of 48 families were exposed to two concentrations (0.5 μg/L; 100 μg/L) of differently sized silver nanoparticles or ions (silver nitrate). These doses were not lethal; yet higher concentrations prompted embryos to hatch earlier and at a smaller size. The induced hatching did not vary with nanoparticle size and was stronger in the silver nitrate group. Additive genetic variation for hatching time was significant across all treatments, with no apparent environmental dependencies. No genetic variation was found for hatching plasticity. We found some treatment‐dependent heritable variation for larval length and yolk volume, and one instance of additive genetic variation for the reaction norm on length at hatching. Our assessment suggests that the effects of silver exposure on additive genetic variation vary according to trait and silver source. While the long‐term fitness consequences of low‐level silver exposure on whitefish embryos must be further investigated to determine whether it is, in fact, detrimental, our results suggest that the evolutionary potential for adaptation to these types of pollutants may be low.
STAT4‐mediated transcriptional repression of the IL5 gene in human memory Th2 cells
Authors: Gonzales‐van Horn Sarah R. , Estrada Leonardo D. , van Oers Nicolai S. C. , Farrar J. David
Published: March 2016

Type I interferon (IFN‐α/β) plays a critical role in suppressing viral replication by driving the transcription of hundreds of interferon‐sensitive genes (ISGs). While many ISGs are transcriptionally activated by the ISGF3 complex, the significance of other signaling intermediates in IFN‐α/β‐mediated gene regulation remains elusive, particularly in rare cases of gene silencing. In human Th2 cells, IFN‐α/β signaling suppressed IL5 and IL13 mRNA expression during recall responses to T‐cell receptor (TCR) activation. This suppression occurred through a rapid reduction in the rate of nascent transcription, independent of de novo expression of ISGs. Further, IFN‐α/β‐mediated STAT4 activation was required for repressing the human IL5 gene, and disrupting STAT4 dimerization reversed this effect. This is the first demonstration of STAT4 acting as a transcriptional repressor in response to IFN‐α/β signaling and highlights the unique activity of this cytokine to acutely block the expression of an inflammatory cytokine in human T cells.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Improving alloreactive Bw4 donor selection by genotyping codon 86 of KIR3DL1/S1
Authors: Alicata Claudia , Pende Daniela , Meazza Raffaella , Canevali Paolo , Loiacono Fabrizio , Bertaina Alice , Locatelli Franco , Nemat‐Gorgani Neda , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Parham Peter , Moretta Lorenzo , Moretta Alessandro , Bottino Cristina , Norman Paul J. , Falco Michela
Published: March 2016

KIR3DL1 is a natural killer (NK) cell receptor that recognizes the Bw4 epitope of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules. Following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for patients lacking Bw4, KIR3DL1‐expressing NK cells from Bw4‐positive donors can be alloreactive and eliminate tumor cells. However, KIR3DL1 alleles having T instead of C at nucleotide 320 (encoding leucine 86 instead of serine 86) are not expressed on the cell surface. Thus, not all individuals testing positive for KIR3DL1 are optimal donors for Bw4‐negative recipients. Therefore, we developed a method for genotyping codon 86, which was validated by its perfect correlation with NK cell phenotype for 100 donors of diverse KIR3DL1/S1 genotype. We typed 600 donors and found that ∼12.2% had the KIR3DL1 gene, but did not express cell‐surface KIR3DL1. By contrast, high‐expressing allotypes were identified when haplotypes from four families with duplicated KIR3DL1/S1 genes were characterized at high resolution. Identifying donors who have KIR3DL1 but lack cell‐surface KIR3DL1 would refine donor selection. With this technique, the number of individuals identified who may not be optimal donors for Bw4‐negative patients increases by threefold, when compared with standard methods. Taken together, we propose that allele typing of killer cell Ig‐like receptor (KIR) polymorphisms should become a standard practice when selecting donors.
Influence of the Method of Aqueous Synthesis and the Nature of the Silicon Precursor on the Physicochemical Properties of Porous Alumina
Authors: Claude Vincent , Vilaseca Miriam , Tatton Andrew S. , Damblon Christian , Lambert Stéphanie D.
Published: March 2016

The aqueous sol‐gel synthesis of γ‐Al2O3 modified with different silicon precursors {trimethoxysilane, triethoxysilane and N‐[3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylene diamine} has been investigated. Two parameters have been studied: the silicon addition step and the type of silicon alkoxide. A first observation was that adding a silicon alkoxide either before or just after the precipitation step influences both the crystallinity and structure, whereas adding the alkoxide after a long agitation time only slightly modifies the support properties. It was also highlighted that due to their higher reactivity, silicon precursors with methoxy groups interact more strongly with the bulk alumina than the silicon precursors with ethoxy groups. This difference of Si location in the alumina structure permitted not only their resistance toward phase transition to be increased at high temperature, but also to stabilize them more efficiently against sintering under normal and steam conditions. Among the different silicon alkoxides tested, samples prepared with N‐[3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl]ethylene diamine showed very unusual properties. The alumina supports modified with this precursor showed grain‐shaped nanocrystallites, whereas all other samples were platelet‐like. As a result, this sample presented a very narrow pore diameter distribution of around 5 nm and a remarkably high specific surface area (530 m2/g).
Synthesis, Structural and Spectroscopic Characterization of CrIII, FeIII, CoIII, NiII and CuII Complexes with an Asymmetric 1,3,4‐Thiadiazole Ligand
Authors: Deckert Christoph , Bittner Denis , Carrella Luca M. , Schollmeyer Dieter , Rentschler Eva
Published: March 2016

The reaction of the new asymmetric 1,3,4‐thiadiazole‐based ligand 2‐[(5‐ethylthio‐1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)hydrazonomethyl]phenol (H1ETHP) with various third‐row transition metal salts resulted in the formation of six new mononuclear complexes [Cr(ETHP)2]ClO4 (1), [Fe(ETHP)2][FeCl4] (2), [Co(ETHP)(ETHP–H)] (3), [Ni(ETHP)(H1ETHP)]Cl (4), [Ni(ETHP)(H1ETHP)](ClO4) (5), [Ni(ETHP)(H1ETHP)]Br (6), and one tetranuclear complex [Cu2Cl3(ETHP)(H1ETHP)]2 (7). H1ETHP and all complexes have been analyzed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Structural analysis of 1–6 reveals complexes of the [ML2]n+‐type (n = 0,1), in which the mono anionic ligand ETHP coordinates in a tridentate NNO fashion via its imine, thiadiazole and phenolate functional groups. Complex 7 has also been investigated by variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements and shows weak antiferromagnetic exchange interactions between the copper centers. The g values for the copper ions in the tetramer were obtained by EPR spectroscopy. All compounds were found to display an extended hydrogen bond network via their N–H or O–H ligand functional groups towards the corresponding counterions, solvent molecules or neighboring complex cations. The connectivity of the complexes results in the formation of supramolecular chains or, in the case of 4, a 3D‐network including large solvent accessible cavities.
α,α′‐Bis(arylimino)‐2,3:5,6‐bis(pentamethylene)pyridylcobalt Chlorides: Synthesis, Characterization, and Ethylene Polymerization Behavior
Authors: Du Shizhen , Zhang Wenjuan , Yue Erlin , Huang Fang , Liang Tongling , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: March 2016

A series of α,α′‐bis(arylimino)‐2,3:5,6‐bis(pentamethylene)pyridylcobalt chlorides was synthesized by the one‐pot template reaction of α,α′‐dioxo‐2,3:5,6‐bis(pentamethylene)pyridine, anilines, and cobalt chloride in refluxing acetic acid. The molecular structure of complex Co1 was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, which revealed a distorted square‐pyramidal geometry around the cobalt center. On activation with methylaluminoxane or modified methylaluminoxane, all of the complexes exhibited high activity toward ethylene polymerization with activities in the range of 106 g of polyethylene (PE) per mole of Co per hour and produced highly linear PEs with low molecular weights and narrow polydispersity. The unimodal nature of the PEs indicated single‐site active species of these cobalt catalyst systems. The influences of cobalt complexes and polymerization parameters on the catalytic behavior and the properties of the PEs were investigated in detail.
Tailoring the Energetic Properties of 5‐(5‐Amino‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)tetraz­ole and Its Derivatives by Salt Formation: From Sensitive Primary to Insensitive Secondary Explosives
Authors: Izsák Dániel , Klapötke Thomas M. , Lutter Ferdinand H. , Pflüger Carolin
Published: March 2016

The main challenge in the development of energetic materials is the combination of high energy content with chemical and mechanical stability, two properties that are often contradictory. The energetic properties of 5‐(5‐amino‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)tetrazole and its derivatives, in which the amino group is substituted by an azido group, a nitro group, or a diazene bridge, should be improved and tailored for possible applications by formation of various nitrogen‐rich and metal salts thereof. The thermal and mechanical sensitivities were determined and the detonation performances of the nitrogen‐rich salts were calculated. Furthermore, the combustion performances of erosion‐reduced gun propellant mixtures of the most promising salts were computed owing to their high nitrogen content and energetic performance. Metal salts of 5‐(5‐azido‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)tetrazole were investigated to test their capability as primary explosives.
Ni(bpy)(cod): A Convenient Entryway into the Efficient Hydroboration of Ketones, Aldehydes, and Imines
Authors: King Amanda E. , Stieber S. Chantal E. , Henson Neil J. , Kozimor Stosh A. , Scott Brian L. , Smythe Nathan C. , Sutton Andrew D. , Gordon John C.
Published: March 2016

The catalytic hydroboration of ketones, aldehydes, and imines with pinacol borane and Ni(bpy)(cod) has been demonstrated in benzene at room temperature and low catalyst loadings (0.03–0.3 mol‐%). Spectroscopic and structural evidence support the formulation of Ni(bpy)(cod) as containing a NiI cation and a bpy·– ligand. The Ni(bpy)(cod) complex reacts quickly with ketonic substrates to form an adduct that appears to function as an entryway into catalytic activity.
Comparison of oil yield and quality obtained by different extraction procedures from salmon (Salmo salar) processing byproducts
Authors: Głowacz‐Różyńska Agnieszka , Tynek Maria , Malinowska‐Pańczyk Edyta , Martysiak‐Żurowska Dorota , Pawłowicz Roman , Kołodziejska Ilona
Published: March 2016

The content and composition of lipids in different byproducts (skins, heads, and backbones) from mechanically processed farmed Atlantic salmon were determined and compared with that obtained from wild salmon. Three different procedures were used to establish the optimal conditions of oil extraction (at high temperature −95°C, “cold” extraction at temperature not exceeding 15°C and enzyme assisted with Alcalase). “Cold” extraction at temperature not exceeding 15°C was very efficient, yielding almost 95% of the oil from skins. In the case of heads the obtained yield of about 71% was not lower than that from extraction performed at 95 °C or extraction supported by enzyme treatment. The peroxide value of oil isolated from the heads using “cold” extraction was at the same level as in oil of the enzyme assisted process, but four times lower than in oil extracted at high temperature. The results showed that the content of lipids from in the farmed salmon byproducts the content of lipids was about 45–55% higher than in byproducts of wild salmon, however the EPA + DHA content was 10–33% lower.

Practical applications: With “cold” extraction heating which is commonly used for oil recovery in the fish industry could be eliminated and thus the cost of the process would be lower and oxidative changes in the oil reduced. Furthermore, this method based on rules of “green chemistry” can be more attractive and alternative procedure of oil isolation from fatty fish byproducts than those using organic solvents. The fatty fish byproducts such as heads, skins, and backbones may be used as a source of valuable oils rich in PUFA. The remaining material after oil isolation can be a source of collagen and gelatin used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries and finally of minerals preparation (in the case of heads and backbones) used for enriching animal feed.

The oil was extracted from salmon byproducts: heads, backbones, and skins by using different methods. Conventional extraction of the oil at high temperatures ensures high yield but leads to low quality of the product. Enzymatic extraction is more preserving to oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, but has special requirements. An attractive solution can be the “cold” extraction. This procedure allows achieving the oil from fatty fish byproducts with high yield and quality in a simple and cheap way.
Effects of moisture content and presence of γ‐tocopherol on the stability of α‐tocopherol in stripped corn oils
Authors: Jung Jinyeong , Gim Seo Yeong , Lee Chankyu , Kim Mi‐Ja , Lee JaeHwan
Published: March 2016

The stability of α‐tocopherol in stripped corn oils with or without added γ‐tocopherol was determined under different levels of relative humidity (RH) ranging from 0 to 93% at 60°C. The degree of oxidation was determined by the headspace oxygen content and conjugated dienoic acid (CDA) assays and the remaining α‐ and γ‐tocopherols were also analyzed. The stability of α‐tocopherol was significantly influenced by the presence of moisture, the concentration of α‐tocopherol, and the presence of γ‐tocopherol. Samples containing up to 100 ppm α‐tocopherol showed the lowest stability under 75% RH whereas those containing 200 ppm α‐tocopherol had the highest stability under 93% RH. Samples under 0% RH had the lowest α‐tocopherol stability in the presence of γ‐tocopherol. Generally, higher concentrations of γ‐tocopherol resulted in the retention of more α‐tocopherol in stripped bulk oils.

Practical application: Tocopherol isomers are typical lipophilic antioxidants in oils. Many lipid‐rich foods contain tocopherol isomers to extend the shelf‐life of the products. The stability of α‐tocopherol was significantly influenced by the presence of moisture, the concentration of α‐tocopherol, and the presence of γ‐tocopherol. Generally, higher concentrations of γ‐tocopherol resulted in the retention of more α‐tocopherol in stripped bulk oils. Using the knowledge obtained in this study, shelf‐life of foods containing oils can be enhanced by modifying the moisture content and concentration and types of tocol isomers.

Generally, α‐tocopherol and γ‐tocopherol were more stable at RH 32% and RH 75%, respectively in stripped bulk oils.
MALDI imaging for the localization of saponins in root tissues and rapid differentiation of three Panax herbs
Authors: Wang Shujuan , Bai Hangrui , Cai Zongwei , Gao Dan , Jiang Yuyang , Liu Jianjun , Liu Hongxia
Published: March 2016

The roots of Panax genus with ginseng saponins as bioactive ingredients have been widely used as herbal medicines and food additives. Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, and Panax notoginseng are three major commercial species in Panax genus, with similar morphological appearance but different pharmacological functions. Various methods have been developed and applied for the differentiation of these species. In this work, MALDI‐TOF‐MS imaging (MSI) was employed for the localization of saponins in root tissues and for the rapid differentiation of the three Panax species for the first time. After a simple sample preparation, MALDI‐TOF‐MSI analysis of root tissue allowed the detection of 51 saponins. Localization of saponins in the tissue was mapped in ion images, which were obviously related to botanical structure. The localization modes varied with Panax species, providing valuable information for the discrimination of ginseng species. Principal component analysis (PCA) of data collected from areas with abundant saponins based on ion images was applied for the differentiation. Nine characteristic saponin peaks were identified from the PCA analysis. The MALDI‐TOF‐MSI together with area‐specific data analysis provided high potential for the rapid differentiation of Panax herbs.
Concurrent Control of Power Overshoot and Voltage Reversal with Series Connection of Parallel‐Connected Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: An Junyeong , Kim Taeyoung , Chang In Seop
Published: March 2016

One in four microbial fuel cell (MFC) units suffers from power overshoot. Series connection of the unit to a high‐current‐producing unit showed significant current loss (57 %) due to power overshoot and the resultant voltage reversal. To concurrently control the power overshoot and voltage reversal, the two MFC units in series were converted to parallel connection, and this was then connected in series with another parallel‐connected MFC group. The current loss for series connection of the two parallel‐connected MFCs was as small as 3 % compared to the sum of the maximum current of the four individual MFC units, without power overshoot; the anode potentials in the units were kept low between −0.24 V and −0.10 V at which electrochemically active bacteria can be easily grown. These results show that series connection of parallel‐connected MFCs could be a readily applicable way for concurrently controlling the power overshoot and voltage reversal in MFC systems.
Energy learning curves of PV systems
Authors: Görig Marzella , Breyer Christian
Published: March 2016

The energy demand of photovoltaic (PV) systems is an important part of energy sustainability of PV systems. PV systems are considered sustainable energy systems when the produced energy is higher than the energy needed for the PV system on a life‐cycle basis. This paper employs financial learning curve concepts to determine the energy demand of major PV module technologies and systems. General PV module and PV system energy learning curves are calculated by weighting energy demand of different PV systems according to their share in PV market. Additionally, the contribution of module efficiency for reducing specific energy demand is considered. We find an energy learning rate of 17% for PV modules and 14% for PV systems on the basis of a market weighted mix of technologies and volumes. Energy payback time (EPBT) and energy return on energy investment (EROI) in 2010 and for the year 2020 are calculated via the energy learning rate and indicates a further significant progress in energetic productivity of PV systems. To the knowledge of the authors this publication shows for the first time that the energy consumption in PV manufacturing follows the log‐linear learning curve law similar to the evolution of production cost. This allows calculating EPBT or EROI for future prognoses. Furthermore, it shows significant evidence of how sustainable PV systems are and justifies their growing share in the energy market. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 914–923, 2016
Multi‐objective risk‐informed design of floor isolation systems
Authors: Gidaris Ioannis , Taflanidis Alexandros A. , Lopez‐Garcia Diego , Mavroeidis George P.
Published: March 2016

The design of floor isolation systems (FISs) for the protection of acceleration sensitive contents is examined considering multiple objectives, all quantified in terms of the probabilistic system performance. The competing objectives considered correspond to (i) maximization of the level of protection offered to the sensitive content (acceleration reduction) and (ii) minimization of the demand for the isolator displacement capacity and, more importantly, for the appropriate clearance to avoid collisions with surrounding objects (floor displacement reduction). Both of these objectives are probabilistically characterized utilizing a versatile, simulation‐based framework for quantifying seismic risk, addressing all important uncertainties related to the seismic hazard and the structural model. FIS performance is assessed through time‐history analysis, allowing for all important sources of nonlinearity to be directly addressed in the design framework. The seismic hazard is described through a stochastic ground motion model. For efficiently performing the multi‐objective optimization, an augmented surrogate modeling methodology is established, considering development of a single metamodel with respect to both the uncertain model parameters and the design variables for the FIS system. This surrogate model is then utilized to simultaneously support the probabilistic risk assessment and the design optimization to provide the Pareto front of dominant designs. Each of these designs establishes a different compromise between the considered risk‐related objectives offering a variety of potential options to the designer. Within the illustrative example, the efficiency of the established framework is exploited to compare three different FIS implementations, whereas the impact of structural uncertainties on the optimal design is also evaluated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance‐based seismic design via yield frequency spectra‡
Authors: Vamvatsikos Dimitrios , Aschheim Mark A.
Published: March 2016

Yield frequency spectra (YFS) are introduced to enable the direct design of a structure subject to a set of seismic performance objectives. YFS offer a unique view of the entire solution space for structural performance. This is portrayed in terms of the mean annual frequency (MAF) of exceeding arbitrary ductility (or displacement) thresholds, versus the base shear strength of a structural system having specified yield displacement and capacity curve shape. YFS can be computed nearly instantaneously using publicly available software or closed‐form solutions, for any system whose response can be satisfactorily approximated by an equivalent nonlinear single‐degree‐of‐freedom oscillator. Because the yield displacement typically is a more stable parameter for performance‐based seismic design compared with the period, the YFS format is especially useful for design. Performance objectives stated in terms of the MAF of exceeding specified ductility (or displacement) thresholds are used to determine the lateral strength that governs the design of the structure. Both aleatory and epistemic uncertainties are considered, the latter at user‐selected confidence levels that can inject the desired conservatism in protecting against different failure modes. Near‐optimal values of design parameters can be determined in many cases in a single step. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From macroplastic to microplastic: Degradation of high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene in a salt marsh habitat
Authors: Weinstein John E. , Crocker Brittany K. , Gray Austin D.
Published: March 2016

As part of the degradation process, it is believed that most plastic debris becomes brittle over time, fragmenting into progressively smaller particles. The smallest of these particles, known as microplastics, have been receiving increased attention because of the hazards they present to wildlife. To understand the process of plastic degradation in an intertidal salt marsh habitat, strips (15.2 cm × 2.5 cm) of high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, and extruded polystyrene were field-deployed in June 2014 and monitored for biological succession, weight, surface area, ultraviolet (UV) transmittance, and fragmentation. Subsets of strips were collected after 4 wk, 8 wk, 16 wk, and 32 wk. After 4 wk, biofilm had developed on all 3 polymers with evidence of grazing periwinkles (Littoraria irrorata). The accreting biofilm resulted in an increased weight of the polypropylene and polystyrene strips at 32 wk by 33.5% and 167.0%, respectively, with a concomitant decrease in UV transmittance by approximately 99%. Beginning at 8 wk, microplastic fragments and fibers were produced from strips of all 3 polymers, and scanning electron microscopy revealed surface erosion of the strips characterized by extensive cracking and pitting. The results suggest that the degradation of plastic debris proceeds relatively quickly in salt marshes and that surface delamination is the primary mechanism by which microplastic particles are produced in the early stages of degradation. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1632–1640. © 2016 SETAC