bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A large-scale RNA interference screen identifies genes that regulate autophagy at different stages
Authors: Guo Sujuan , Pridham Kevin J. , Virbasius Ching-Man , He Bin , Zhang Liqing , Varmark Hanne , Green Michael R. , Sheng Zhi
Published: February 2018

Dysregulated autophagy is central to the pathogenesis and therapeutic development of cancer. However, how autophagy is regulated in cancer is not well understood and genes that modulate cancer autophagy are not fully defined. To gain more insights into autophagy regulation in cancer, we performed a large-scale RNA interference screen in K562 human chronic myeloid leukemia cells using monodansylcadaverine staining, an autophagy-detecting approach equivalent to immunoblotting of the autophagy marker LC3B or fluorescence microscopy of GFP-LC3B. By coupling monodansylcadaverine staining with fluorescence-activated cell sorting, we successfully isolated autophagic K562 cells where we identified 336 short hairpin RNAs. After candidate validation using Cyto-ID fluorescence spectrophotometry, LC3B immunoblotting, and quantitative RT-PCR, 82 genes were identified as autophagy-regulating genes. 20 genes have been reported previously and the remaining 62 candidates are novel autophagy mediators. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that most candidate genes were involved in molecular pathways regulating autophagy, rather than directly participating in the autophagy process. Further autophagy flux assays revealed that 57 autophagy-regulating genes suppressed autophagy initiation, whereas 21 candidates promoted autophagy maturation. Our RNA interference screen identified genes that regulate autophagy at different stages, which helps decode autophagy regulation in cancer and offers novel avenues to develop autophagy-related therapies for cancer.
Mathematical modeling of the impact of cytokine response of acute myeloid leukemia cells on patient prognosis
Authors: Stiehl Thomas , Ho Anthony D. , Marciniak-Czochra Anna
Published: February 2018

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disease. One reason for the heterogeneity may originate from inter-individual differences in the responses of leukemic cells to endogenous cytokines. On the basis of mathematical modeling, computer simulations and patient data, we have provided evidence that cytokine-independent leukemic cell proliferation may be linked to early relapses and poor overall survival. Depending whether the model of cytokine-dependent or cytokine-independent leukemic cell proliferation fits to the clinical data, patients can be assigned to two groups that differ significantly with respect to overall survival. The modeling approach further enables us to identify parameter constellations that can explain unexpected responses of some patients to external cytokines such as blast crisis or remission without chemotherapy.
The promotion function of Berberine for osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells via ERK-FOS pathway mediated by EGFR
Authors: Liu Jin , Zhao Xiaodan , Pei Dandan , Sun Guo , Li Ye , Zhu Chunhui , Qiang Cui , Sun Junyi , Shi Jianfeng , Dong Yan , Gou Jianzhong , Wang Sicen , Li Ang
Published: February 2018

Coptidis Rhizoma binds to the membrane receptors on hPDLSC/CMC, and the active ingredient Berberine (BER) that can be extracted from it may promote the proliferation and osteogenesis of periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSC). The membrane receptor that binds with BER on the cell surface of hPDLSC, the mechanism of direct interaction between BER and hPDLSC, and the related signal pathway are not yet clear. In this research, EGFR was screened as the affinity membrane receptor between BER and hPDLSC, through retention on CMC, competition with BER and by using a molecular docking simulation score. At the same time, the MAPK PCR Array was selected to screen the target genes that changed when hPDLSC was simulated by BER. In conclusion, BER may bind to EGFR on the cell membrane of hPDLSC so the intracellular ERK signalling pathways activate, and nuclear-related genes of FOS change, resulting in the effect of osteogenesis on PDLSC.
The utility of a network–based clustering method for dimension reduction of imaging and non-imaging biomarkers predictive of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yoshida Hisako , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Yamashita Fumio , Tsuruya Kazuhiko
Published: February 2018

While the identification of biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is critical, emphasis must also be placed on defining the relationship between these and other indicators. To this end, we propose a network-based radial basis function-sparse partial least squares (RBF-sPLS) approach to analyze structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) data of the brain. This intermediate phenotype for AD represents a more objective approach for exploring biomarkers in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. The proposed method has two unique features for effective biomarker selection. The first is that applying RBF to sMRI data can reduce the dimensions without excluding information. The second is that the network analysis considers the relationship among the biomarkers, while applied to non-imaging data. As a result, the output can be interpreted as clusters of related biomarkers. In addition, it is possible to estimate the parameters between the sMRI data and biomarkers while simultaneously selecting the related brain regions and biomarkers. When applied to real data, this technique identified not only the hippocampus and traditional biomarkers, such as amyloid beta, as predictive of AD, but also numerous other regions and biomarkers.
Recombinant IFN-γ from the bank vole Myodes glareolus: a novel tool for research on rodent reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens
Authors: Torelli Francesca , Zander Steffen , Ellerbrok Heinz , Kochs Georg , Ulrich Rainer G. , Klotz Christian , Seeber Frank
Published: February 2018

Rodent species like Myodes glareolus and Microtus spp. are natural reservoirs for many zoonotic pathogens causing human diseases and are gaining increasing interest in the field of eco-immunology as candidate animal models. Despite their importance the lack of immunological reagents has hampered research in these animal species. Here we report the recombinant production and functional characterization of IFN-γ, a central mediator of host’s innate and adaptive immune responses, from the bank vole M. glareolus. Soluble dimeric recMgIFN-γ was purified in high yield from Escherichia coli. Its activity on M. glareolus and Microtus arvalis kidney cell lines was assessed by immunofluorescent detection of nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of the transcription factor STAT1. RecMgIFN-γ also induced expression of an IFN-γ-regulated innate immunity gene. Inhibition of vesicular stomatitis virus replication in vole cells upon recMgIFN-γ treatment provided further evidence of its biological activity. Finally, we established a recMgIFN-γ-responsive bank vole reporter cell line that allows the sensitive titration of the cytokine activity via a bioluminescence reporter assay. Taken together, we report valuable tools for future investigations on the immune response against zoonotic pathogens in their natural animal hosts, which might foster the development of novel animal models.
Broadband imaging with one planar diffractive lens
Authors: Mohammad Nabil , Meem Monjurul , Shen Bing , Wang Peng , Menon Rajesh
Published: February 2018

We demonstrate imaging over the visible band using a single planar diffractive lens. This is enabled via multi-level diffractive optics that is designed to focus over a broad wavelength range, which we refer to as an achromatic diffractive lens (ADL). We designed, fabricated and characterized two ADLs with numerical apertures of 0.05 and 0.18. Diffraction-limited focusing is demonstrated for the NA = 0.05 lens with measured focusing efficiency of over 40% across the entire visible spectrum (450 nm to 750 nm). We characterized the lenses with a monochromatic and a color CMOS sensor, and demonstrated video imaging under natural sunlight and other broadband illumination conditions. We use rigorous electromagnetic simulations to emphasize that ADLs can achieve high NA (0.9) and large operating bandwidth (300 nm in the visible spectrum), a combination of metrics that have so far eluded other flat-lens technologies such as metalenses. These planar diffractive lenses can be cost-effectively manufactured over large areas and thereby, can enable the wide adoption of flat, low-cost lenses for a variety of imaging applications.
Future global productivity will be affected by plant trait response to climate
Authors: Madani Nima , Kimball John S. , Ballantyne Ashley P. , Affleck David L. R. , van Bodegom Peter M. , Reich Peter B. , Kattge Jens , Sala Anna , Nazeri Mona , Jones Matthew O. , Zhao Maosheng , Running Steven W.
Published: February 2018

Plant traits are both responsive to local climate and strong predictors of primary productivity. We hypothesized that future climate change might promote a shift in global plant traits resulting in changes in Gross Primary Productivity (GPP). We characterized the relationship between key plant traits, namely Specific Leaf Area (SLA), height, and seed mass, and local climate and primary productivity. We found that by 2070, tropical and arid ecosystems will be more suitable for plants with relatively lower canopy height, SLA and seed mass, while far northern latitudes will favor woody and taller plants than at present. Using a network of tower eddy covariance CO2 flux measurements and the extrapolated plant trait maps, we estimated the global distribution of annual GPP under current and projected future plant community distribution. We predict that annual GPP in northern biomes (≥45 °N) will increase by 31% (+8.1 ± 0.5 Pg C), but this will be offset by a 17.9% GPP decline in the tropics (−11.8 ± 0.84 Pg C). These findings suggest that regional climate changes will affect plant trait distributions, which may in turn affect global productivity patterns.
Phylogenetic and environmental components of inter-specific variability in the antioxidant defense system in freshwater anomurans Aegla (Crustacea, Decapoda)
Authors: Faria Samuel Coelho , Klein Roberta Daniele , Costa Patrícia Gomes , Crivellaro Marcelo Schüler , Santos Sandro , Bueno Sérgio Luiz de Siqueira , Bianchini Adalto
Published: February 2018

The antioxidant defense system (ADS) protects organisms against the potential oxidative stress induced by environmental features, underlying processes of habitat diversification. The anomuransAeglaconstitute the most threatened freshwater decapods of South America, occupying pristine habitats with narrow distribution. Using phylogenetic comparative methods, we addressed: Is the variability of habitat physicochemical parameters and tissue ADS phylogenetically structured? How do environmental features correlate with ADS? How do they vary among species? Several physicochemical parameters of water, as well as metals in sediments, were measured in ten aeglid species’ habitats. Additionally, metal accumulation and ADS parameters [metallothionein-like proteins (MTLP), antioxidant capacity against peroxyl radicals (ACAP), and glutathione system (GSH-GSSG)] were evaluated in hepatopancreas. Water conductivity and pH showed phylogenetic signal, while all other physicochemical traits demonstrated plastic variability. Metals were present at natural concentrations, which are corroborated by the relative stable GSH/GSSG ratio, and by their absence of correlation with bioaccumulation levels and MTLP, both phylogenetically structured. However, metal variability across species’ niches is associated with ACAP, a potential biomarker tool. Thus, the physiological sensitivity of aeglids is environmentally driven but also  phylogenetically constrained, unraveling the importance of systematic framework for cross-species investigations and future monitoring strategies of these conspicuous freshwater animals.
The NLRP3 Inflammasome May Contribute to Pathologic Neovascularization in the Advanced Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Chaurasia Shyam S. , Lim Rayne R. , Parikh Bhav H. , Wey Yeo Sia , Tun Bo Bo , Wong Tien Yin , Luu Chi D. , Agrawal Rupesh , Ghosh Arkasubhra , Mortellaro Alessandra , Rackoczy Elizabeth , Mohan Rajiv R. , Barathi Veluchamy A.
Published: February 2018

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a retinal microvascular disease characterized by inflammatory and angiogenic pathways. In this study, we evaluated NLRP3 inflammasome in a double transgenic mouse model, Akimba (Ins2
Akita
xVEGF+/−), which demonstrates hyperglycemia, vascular hyperpermeability and neovascularization seen in the proliferative DR. Retinal structural integrity, vascular leakage and function were examined by fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, retinal flat mounts, laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG), and electroretinography in Akimba and its parental strains, Akita (Ins2
Akita
) and Kimba (trVEGF029) mice. Inflammatory mechanisms involving NLRP3 inflammasome were investigated using real time-PCR, immunohistochemistry, ELISA and western blots. We observed an increased vascular leakage, reduced retinal thickness, and function in Akimba retina. Also, Akimba retina depicts decreased relative flow volume measured by LSFG. Most importantly, high levels of IL-1β along with increased NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1 at mRNA and protein levels were observed in Akimba retina. However, the in vivo functional role remains undefined. In conclusion, increased activation of macroglia (GFAP), microglia (Iba-1 and OX-42) and perivascular macrophages (F4/80 and CD14) together with pro-inflammatory (IL-1β and IL-6) and pro-angiogenic markers (PECAM-1, ICAM-1, VEGF, Flt-1, and Flk-1), suggested a critical role for NLRP3 inflammasome in the Akimba mouse model depicting advanced stages of DR pathogenesis.
Prevalence of Depression in the Community from 30 Countries between 1994 and 2014
Authors: Lim Grace Y. , Tam Wilson W. , Lu Yanxia , Ho Cyrus S. , Zhang Melvyn W. , Ho Roger C.
Published: February 2018

The prevalence of depression may be affected by changes in psychiatric practices and the availability of online mental health information in the past two decades. This study aimed to evaluate the aggregate prevalence of depression in communities from different countries between 1994 and 2014 and to explore the variations in prevalence stratified by geographical, methodological and socio-economic factors. A total of 90 studies were identified and met the inclusion criteria (n = 1,112,573 adults) with 68 studies on single point prevalence, 9 studies on one-year prevalence, and 13 studies on lifetime prevalence of depression. A random-effects model meta-analysis that was performed to calculate the aggregate point, one-year and lifetime prevalence of depression calculated prevalences of 12.9%, 7.2% and 10.8% respectively. Point prevalence of depression was significantly higher in women (14.4%), countries with a medium human development index (HDI) (29.2%), studies published from 2004 to 2014 (15.4%) and when using self-reporting instruments (17.3%) to assess depression. Heterogeneity was identified by meta-regression and subgroup analysis, and response rate, percentage of women and year of publication, respectively, were determined contribute to depression prevalence. This meta-analysis allows benchmarking of the prevalence of depression during the era when online health information emerged, facilitating future comparisons.
Partitioning the regional and local drivers of phylogenetic and functional diversity along temperate elevational gradients on an East Asian peninsula
Authors: Chun Jung-Hwa , Lee Chang-Bae
Published: February 2018

Species-centric approaches to biodiversity in ecological research are limited in their ability to reflect the evolutionary history and functional diversity of community assembly. Recently, the introduction of alternative facets of biodiversity, such as phylogenetic and functional diversity, has shed light on this problem and improved our understanding of the processes underlying biodiversity patterns. Here, we investigated the phylogenetic and functional diversity patterns of α, β and γ components in woody plant assemblages along regional and local elevational gradients in South Korea. Although the patterns of phylogenetic and functional diversity varied along regional and local elevational transects, the main drivers were partitioned into two categories: regional area or climate for phylogenetic diversity, depending on whether the transect was at a regional or local scale; and habitat heterogeneity for functional diversity, which was derived in elevational bands. Moreover, environmental distance was more important than was geographic distance for phylogenetic and functional β diversity between paired elevational bands. These results support the hypothesis that niche-based deterministic processes such as environmental filtering and competitive exclusion are fundamental in structuring woody plant assemblages along temperate elevational gradients regardless of scale (regional vs. local) in our study areas.
Expression and replication of virus-like circular DNA in human cells
Authors: Eilebrecht Sebastian , Hotz-Wagenblatt Agnes , Sarachaga Victor , Burk Amelie , Falida Konstantina , Chakraborty Deblina , Nikitina Ekaterina , Tessmer Claudia , Whitley Corinna , Sauerland Charlotte , Gunst Karin , Grewe Imke , Bund Timo
Published: February 2018

The consumption of bovine milk and meat is considered a risk factor for colon- and breast cancer formation, and milk consumption has also been implicated in an increased risk for developing Multiple Sclerosis (MS). A number of highly related virus-like DNAs have been recently isolated from bovine milk and sera and from a brain sample of a MS patient. As a genetic activity of these Acinetobacter-related bovine milk and meat factors (BMMFs) is unknown in eukaryotes, we analyzed their expression and replication potential in human HEK293TT cells. While all analyzed BMMFs show transcriptional activity, the MS brain isolate MSBI1.176, sharing homology with a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy-associated DNA molecule, is transcribed at highest levels. We show expression of a replication-associated protein (Rep), which is highly conserved among all BMMFs, and serological tests indicate a human anti-Rep immune response. While the cow milk isolate CMI1.252 is replication-competent in HEK293TT cells, replication of MSBI1.176 is complemented by CMI1.252, pointing at an interplay during the establishment of persistence in human cells. Transcriptome profiling upon BMMF expression identified host cellular gene expression changes related to cell cycle progression and cell viability control, indicating potential pathways for a pathogenic involvement of BMMFs.
Murine hematopoietic stem cell reconstitution potential is maintained by osteopontin during aging
Authors: Li Jin , Carrillo García Carmen , Riedt Tamara , Brandes Maria , Szczepanski Sabrina , Brossart Peter , Wagner Wolfgang , Janzen Viktor
Published: February 2018

In adult mammals, hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) reside in the bone marrow and are in part regulated by the bone marrow microenvironment, called the stem cell niche. We have previously identified the bone marrow morphogen osteopontin (OPN), which is abundantly present in the bone marrow extracellular matrix, as a negative regulator of the size of the HSC pool under physiological conditions. Here, we study the impact of OPN on HSC function during aging using an OPN-knockout mouse model. We show that during aging OPN deficiency is associated with an increase in lymphocytes and a decline in erythrocytes in peripheral blood. In a bone marrow transplantation setting, aged OPN-deficient stem cells show reduced reconstitution ability likely due to insufficient differentiation of HSCs into more mature cells. In serial bone marrow transplantation, aged OPN−/− bone marrow cells fail to adequately reconstitute red blood cells and platelets, resulting in severe anemia and thrombocytopenia as well as premature deaths of recipient mice. Thus, OPN has different effects on HSCs in aged and young animals and is particularly important to maintain stem cell function in aging mice.
A G-quadruplex motif at the 3′ end of sgRNAs improves CRISPR–Cas9 based genome editing efficiency
Authors: Nahar Smita , Sehgal Paras , Azhar Mohd , Rai Manish , Singh Amrita , Sivasubbu Sridhar , Chakraborty Debojyoti , Maiti Souvik
Published: February 2018

Incorporating biologically stable G-quadruplex modification at 3′ end of sgRNAs increases efficiency in zebrafish without compromising specificity.
One-dimensional hydrogen bonding networks of bis-hydroxylated diamantane formed inside double-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Nakanishi Yusuke , Omachi Haruka , Fokina Natalie A. , Schreiner Peter R. , Becker Jonathan , Dahl Jeremy E. P. , Carlson Robert M. K. , Shinohara Hisanori
Published: February 2018

1,6-Bis(hydroxymethyl)diamantane forms one-dimensional networks inside carbon nanotubes through hydrogen bonding that leads to higher filling-yield as compared with pristine diamantane.
Calculation of linear and nonlinear optical properties of azobenzene derivatives with Kohn–Sham and coupled-cluster methods
Authors: Pal Arun K. , Duignan Thomas J. , Autschbach Jochen
Published: February 2018

A non-empirically tuned generalized Kohn–Sham functional allows the prediction of accurate low-energy excitation energies and linear polarizabilities. Second hyperpolarizabilities are not improved when compared to coupled-cluster benchmark data.
Development of an ionization method using hydrogenated plasma for mass analysis of surface adhesive compounds
Authors: Aida Mari , Iwai Takahiro , Okamoto Yuki , Miyahara Hidekazu , Seto Yasuo , Okino Akitoshi
Published: February 2018

This paper proposes an ionization method that adds a small amount of hydrogen to the helium plasma to generate protons in the sample ionization source. Using this, mass spectrometry was performed on adhesive compounds.
Phosphine-assisted C–H bond activation in Schiff bases and formation of novel organo cobalt complexes bearing Schiff base ligands
Authors: Zhang Hua , Xing Junyang , Dong Yanhong , Xie Shangqing , Ren Shishuai , Qi Xinghao , Sun Hongjian , Li Xiaoyan , Fuhr Olaf , Fenske Dieter
Published: February 2018

The sp2 C–H bond activation of the HCN moiety in diphenylphosphino benzalimines was realized using CoMe(PMe3)4 with the elimination of methane.
Clouding behavior of antidepressant drug–additive system in ethylene glycol/glycerol–water mixed media and their thermodynamic parameters at cloud point
Authors: Pulikkal Ajmal Koya , Gurung Jackson
Published: February 2018

The influence of ethylene glycol (EG)/glycerol(GL)–water mixed media on clouding action of an amphiphilic drug, amitriptyline hydrochloride was studied in presence and absence of inorganic salts in selected compositions of EG–WR and GL–WR mixed media.
Origin of green luminescence in carbon quantum dots: specific emission bands originate from oxidized carbon groups
Authors: Sun Zhiguo , Li Xiaoming , Wu Ye , Wei Changting , Zeng Haibo
Published: February 2018

This study demonstrates that the surface state functional groups are responsible for green waveband originating from CDs.
Isolation, differentiation and biodiversity of ureolytic bacteria of Qatari soil and their potential in microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) for soil stabilization
Authors: Bibi Shazia , Oualha Meriam , Ashfaq Mohammad Yousaf , Suleiman Muhannad T. , Zouari Nabil
Published: February 2018

Biomineralization plays a key role in modifying the geological properties of soil, thereby stabilizing it against wind erosion, especially in areas characterized by harsh weather and harsh soil (calcareous and arid);i.e.Arabic Gulf region.
Protection of COOH and OH groups in acid, base and salt free reactions
Authors: Zhu Xiaotao , Qian Bo , Wei Rongbiao , Huang Jian-Dong , Bao Hongli
Published: February 2018

We report an iron-catalyzed general functional group protection method with inexpensive reagents.
Improved performance and stability of perovskite solar cells with bilayer electron-transporting layers
Authors: Jiang Tingting , Fu Weifei
Published: February 2018

Perovskite solar cells with PC61BM/ZnO nanoparticles bilayer electron-transporting layers were achieved with a power conversion efficiency of 17.2% and decent stability.
Linear quadratic stochastic optimal control problems with operator coefficients: open-loop solutions
Authors: Wei Qingmeng , Yong Jiongmin , Yu Zhiyong
Published: February 2018

An optimal control problem is considered for linear stochastic differential equations with quadratic cost functional. The coefficients of the state equation and the weights in the cost functional are bounded operators on the spaces of square integrable random variables. The main motivation of our study is linear quadratic (LQ, for short) optimal control problems for mean-field stochastic differential equations. Open-loop solvability of the problem is characterized as the solvability of a system of linear coupled forward-backward stochastic differential equations (FBSDE, for short) with operator coefficients, together with a convexity condition for the cost functional. Under proper conditions, the well-posedness of such an FBSDE, which leads to the existence of an open-loop optimal control, is established. Finally, as applications of our main results, a general mean-field LQ control problem and a concrete mean-variance portfolio selection problem in the open-loop case are solved.
Issues of the presence of parasitic protozoa in surface waters
Authors: Hawrylik Eliza
Published: February 2018

Parasitic protozoa are very numerous organisms in the environment that play an important role in the spread of water-borne diseases. Water-borne epidemics caused by parasitic protozoa are noted throughout the world. Within these organisms, intestinal protozoa of the genera Cryptosporidium and Giardia are ones of the most serious health hazards for humans.

This paper focuses on the problem of the presence of parasitic protozoa in surface waters. Characteristics of the most frequently recognized pathogens responsible for water-borne outbreaks were described, as well as sources of contamination and surface waters contamination due to protozoa of the genus Cryptosporidium and Giardia were presented. The methods of destroying the cysts and oocysts of parasitic protozoa used nowadays in the world were also presented in a review.
Measurements of water temperature in fountains as an indicator of potential secondary water pollution caused by Legionella bacteria
Authors: Bąk Joanna
Published: February 2018

At high air temperatures persisting for a long time, water temperature in the fountains may also increase significantly. This can cause a sudden and significant increase in Legionella bacteria, which results in secondary water contamination. This phenomenon with water – air aerosol generated by fountains can be very dangerous for people. During the test, water temperature measurements in fountains in Poland were made. These research tests was conducted in the spring and summer. The research was conducted in order to determine whether there is a possibility of growth of Legionella bacteria. One of the aims of the study was to determine what temperature range occurs in the fountains and how the temperature changes in the basin of the fountain and when the highest temperature occurs. Single temperature measurements were made and also the temperature distribution was measured during daylight hours. The water temperature in most cases was greater than 20°C, but in no case exceed 26°C. The paper presents also the review about the effect of water temperature on the presence and bacterial growth. The study confirmed the existence of the risk of increasing the number of bacteria of the genus Legionella in the water in the fountains.
Define of internal recirculation coefficient for biological wastewater treatment in anoxic and aerobic bioreactors
Authors: Rossinskyi Volodymyr
Published: February 2018

The biological wastewater treatment technologies in anoxic and aerobic bioreactors with recycle of sludge mixture are used for the effective removal of organic compounds from wastewater. The change rate of sludge mixture recirculation between bioreactors leads to a change and redistribution of concentrations of organic compounds in sludge mixture in bioreactors and change hydrodynamic regimes in bioreactors. Determination of the coefficient of internal recirculation of sludge mixture between bioreactors is important for the choice of technological parameters of biological treatment (wastewater treatment duration in anoxic and aerobic bioreactors, flow capacity of recirculation pumps). Determination of the coefficient of internal recirculation of sludge mixture requires integrated consideration of hydrodynamic parameter (flow rate), kinetic parameter (rate of oxidation of organic compounds) and physical-chemical parameter of wastewater (concentration of organic compounds). The conducted numerical experiment from the proposed mathematical equations allowed to obtain analytical dependences of the coefficient of internal recirculation sludge mixture between bioreactors on the concentration of organic compounds in wastewater, the duration of wastewater treatment in bioreactors.
Model Studies on the Effectiveness of MBBR Reactors for the Restoration of Small Water Reservoirs
Authors: Nowak Agata , Mazur Robert , Panek Ewa , Chmist Joanna
Published: February 2018

The authors present the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) model with a quasi-continuous flow for small water reservoir restoration, characterized by high concentrations of organic pollutants. To determine the efficiency of wastewater treatment the laboratory analysis of physic-chemical parameters were conducted for the model on a semi-technical scale of 1:3. Wastewater treatment process was carried out in 24 h for 1 m3 for raw sewage. The startup period was 2 weeks for all biofilters (biological beds). Approximately 50% reduction in COD and BOD5 was obtained on average for the studied bioreactors. Significant improvements were achieved in theclarity of the treated wastewater, with the reduction of suspension by 60%. The oxygen profile has improved significantly in 7 to 9 hours of the process, and a diametric reduction in the oxidative reduction potential was recorded. A preliminary model of biological treatment effectiveness was determined based on the conducted studies. In final stages, the operation mode was set in real conditions of polluted water reservoirs.
Effect of organic nitrogen concentration on the efficiency of trickling filters
Authors: Kopeć Łukasz , Drewnowski Jakub , Fernandez-Morales F. J.
Published: February 2018

The study was conducted in Poland at six selected wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) based on the trickling filters Bioclere® technology. The aim of the study was to find the relationship between the influent organic nitrogen concentration and the purification efficiency expressed as effluent COD concentration. In the tests performed, the COD to BOD5 relationship was close to 2 and the ratio of BOD5 to TN was lower than 4. The research indicated that this specific chemical composition of raw wastewater causes appearance of filamentous bacteria on the surface of trickling filter filling and strongly affect the effluent quality.
Sewage sludge conditioning with the application of ash from biomass-fired power plant
Authors: Wójcik Marta , Stachowicz Feliks , Masłoń Adam
Published: February 2018

During biomass combustion, there are formed combustion products. Available data indicates that only 29.1 % of biomass ashes were recycled in Poland in 2013. Chemical composition and sorptive properties of ashes enable their application in the sewage sludge treatment. This paper analyses the impact of ashes from biomass-combustion power plant on sewage sludge dewatering and higienisation. The results obtained in laboratory tests proved the possitive impact of biomass ashes on sewage sludge hydration reduction after dewatering and the increase of filtrate volume. After sludge conditioning with the use of biomass combustion by-products, the final moisture content decreased by approximatelly 10÷25 % in comparison with raw sewage sludge depending on the method of dewatering. The application of biomass combustion products in sewage sludge management could provide an alternative method of their utilization according to law and environmental requirements.
Numerical analysis of a heat exchanger with differentiated temperatures surface at varying distances from the wall
Authors: Orłowska Magdalena
Published: February 2018

This article is one of a series of articles by the author. For many years she conducts research on convective heat exchange. The work is mainly concerned on knowing the effect of positioning the heater on the heat output of the device. It turns out that the correct location is very important.
Use of Phenacyl Thiosalicylates for the Preparation of 3-Hydroxybenzo[b]thiophene Derivatives
Authors: Soural Miroslav , Trapani Patricia , Kvapil Lubomír , Hradil Pavel
Published: February 2018

In this work, we attempted to synthesize thioflavonols using rearrangement of phenacyl thiosalicylates prepared by two different approaches and subjected to cyclization under acidic conditions. Contrary to our expectations, the isolated products were identified as (3-hydroxybenzo[b]thiophen-2-yl)(phenyl)methanones. The detailed reaction mechanism was elucidated by characterization of all reaction intermediates with HPLC and NMR spectroscopy. The applicability of the reaction using different phenacyl esters was tested.
Photodeprotection of up to Eight Photolabile Protecting Groups from a Single Glycan
Authors: Hurevich Mattan , Samarasimhareddy Mamidi , Alshanski Israel , Mervinetsky Evgeniy
Published: February 2018

Permanent protecting groups are essential for oligosaccharide synthesis. However, the removal of the traditionally used protecting groups is not trivial and demands considerable expertise. Using photolabile protecting groups as permanent protection for glycan can overcome many limitations associated with the traditional oligosaccharide synthesis approach. It is demonstrated here that up to eight photolabile protecting groups can be readily removed from a single glycan using a benchtop LED setup that is very easy to operate. This report suggests that further development of the strategy will offer an attractive alternative for oligosaccharide synthesis.
Improved Access to 1,8-Dichloro-10-(ethynyl)anthracene: A Useful Building Block for (Semi-)rigid Organic Frameworks
Authors: Lamm Jan-Hendrik , Niermeier Philipp , Körte Leif , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans-Georg , Mitzel Norbert
Published: February 2018

An easy access to 1,8-dichloro-10-(ethynyl)anthracene is reported, which is widely applicable for building up rigid linkers between two 1,8-dichloroanthracene units. For this, 1,8-dichloroanthren-10(9H)-one was reacted with ethynylmagnesium bromide in the presence of CeCl3; the yield was 65%. This building block was used as a substrate in (cross-)coupling reactions and some examples of linked 1,8-dichloroanthracen-10-yls (e.g., 1,8-bis[(1,8-dichloroanthracen-10-yl)-ethynyl]naphthalene or 1,2-bis[(1,8-dichloroanthracen-10-yl)ethynyl]-benzene) were synthesized in good to moderate yields. Linked 1,8-dichloroanthracen-10-yl derivatives were also synthesized by cross-coupling reactions using 10-bromo-1,8-dichloroanthracene and doubly ethynyl-substituted substrates. Linkers between the 1,8-dichloroanthracene units were: butadiynediyl, dimethylsilyldiethynyl, octa-1,7-diyne-1,8-diyl, propane-1,3-diylbis(dimethylsilyl)diethynyl, benzene-1,2-diethynyl, naphthalene-1,8-diyldiethynyl, and anthracene-1,8-diyldiethynyl. The new anthracene compounds were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and, in part, by X-ray diffraction experiments.
Paracelsus-Kliniken: Konzern in Not
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: February 2018

Kurz vor Weihnachten haben die Paracelsus-Kliniken Antrag auf Eröffnung eines Insolvenzverfahrens in Eigenverwaltung gestellt. Der private Klinikträger schreibt Verluste in zweistelliger Millionenhöhe. Der Standort Karlsruhe wird geschlossen, mehr als 400 Abeitsplätze könnten Opfer der Sanierung werden.
Papierloses Krankenhaus: Diakonieklinikum erreicht Emram Stufe 6
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: February 2018

Anfang Januar wurde gefeiert in Rotenburg: Bei seinen digitalisierten Prozessen hat das Agaplesion Diakonieklinikum einen Reifegrad, den mit der Medius Klinik Nürtingen bislang nur ein weiteres deutsches Krankenhaus vorweisen kann.
Bilanz des Strukturfonds: Nur 29 Millionen Euro fließen in Klinikschließungen
Authors: Mau Jens
Published: February 2018

Ursprünglich sollte es der Strukturfonds den Bundesländern erleichtern, unrentable Kliniken sozialverträglich zu schließen. Mittlerweile haben die Länder fast alle Gelder abgerufen. Mit dem Ergebnis sind vor allem Krankenkassen unzufrieden: Nur 29 der 500 Millionen wurden für Klinikschließungen verwendet, moniert die AOK.
3. Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie mit BuFaTa 2018: Konzentration auf das Wesentliche
Authors: Thalmayr Maria
Published: February 2018

Bereits zum dritten Mal bietet die Fachmesse Krankenhaustechnologie im Wissenschaftspark Gelsenkirchen am 19. und 20. Juni 2018 Vertretern sämtlicher im Krankenhaus anzutreffender Berufsgruppen, Unternehmern und Unternehmen eine Plattform für Kontakte, Ideen, Inspiration, Information und Wissenstransfer.
DKG-Präsident Dr. Gerald Gaß im Interview - „Wir haben ein Übermaß an Kontrolle“
Authors: Mau Jens
Published: February 2018

Im Gespräch mit kma verrät der neue Präsident der Deutschen Krankenhausgesellschaft (DKG) Dr. Gerald Gaß, was er als SPD-Mann von der Bürgerversicherung hält, nach welchen Kriterien der Bund Geld an die Kliniken verteilen könnte und ob die DKG einen hauptamtlichen Präsidenten braucht.
Der Preis für besonderen Erfolg in der Gesundheitswirtschaft: Thieme Management Award
Authors: Emmrich Michael , Freye Carolin
Published: February 2018

Der Thieme Management Award ehrt Persönlichkeiten in der deutschen Gesundheitswirtschaft und wird in der Kategorie Manager des Jahres sowie seit diesem Jahr in der Kategorie Senkrechtstarter verliehen.
Senkrechtstarter 2017: Marie le Claire
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: February 2018

Sanierungen sind genau ihr Ding. Seit mittlerweile zehn Jahren macht Marie le Claire Krankenhäuser gesund – zurzeit die Universitätsmedizin Greifswald. Als Kaufmännischer Vorstand stellte sich die 35-Jährige Anfang 2016 einem Millionen-Defizit – und baut es ab.
WGKT-Innovationspreis 2017 - Mit UV und violettem Licht gegen Legionellen
Authors: Schmid Julian , Heßling Martin
Published: February 2018

Die Zahl der jährlichen Legionelleninfektionen in Deutschland wird auf weit über 100 000 Fälle geschätzt. Eine mit dem WGKT-Innovationspreis 2017 ausgezeichnete Bachelorarbeit von Julian Schmid (Hochschule Ulm) wies auf neue Desinfektionsansätze hin.
Studium der Gesundheitsökonomie in Bayreuth: Der Klassiker macht sich frisch
Authors: Schmid Andreas
Published: February 2018

Die gute Nachricht vorweg: Der erfolgreiche Markenkern aus einem starken wirtschaftswissenschaftlichen Fundament und den drei Säulen Gesundheitsökonomie, -management und -wissenschaften bleibt erhalten. Doch im Detail hat sich 2017 viel getan.
DGIV-Bundeskongress: Mehr Engagement für integrierte Versorgung
Authors: Spitzer Stefan G.
Published: February 2018

Der 14. Bundeskongress der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Integrierte Versorgung im Gesundheitswesen e.V. (DGIV) hat am 7. Dezember 2017 stattgefunden – und viele kritische Stimmen zum Stand der integrierten Zusammenarbeit im Gesundheitswesen waren zu hören.
Sprechstunde in der PR-Ambulanz: Warum ist mein Pressesprecher so unsympathisch?
Authors: Endele Kerstin
Published: February 2018

Kerstin Endele ist zur Hälfte Journalistin und zur Hälfte Biochemikerin. Seit mehr als 15 Jahren ist sie Expertin für Gesundheitskommunikation und war fünf Jahre Kommunikationschefin und Pressesprecherin der Charité. Wenn sie nicht Klinikvorstände aus Krisen rettet und Pressesprechern diverser Krankenhäuser dabei hilft, ein bisschen Strategie ins übliche Chaos zu bringen, betreibt sie mit der PR-Ambulanz (www.pr-ambulanz.com) einen der größten Blogs zur Klinikkommunikation in Deutschland.
The Acutely Limping Preschool and School-Age Child: An Imaging Perspective
Authors: Cain Usa , Rupasov Andrey , Chaturvedi Apeksha
Published: February 2018

Acute limp in a child presents a diagnostic conundrum and can result from a variety of causes. The underlying etiology is often referable to the hip, but the spine, abdomen, pelvis, or knee can be alternatively implicated. An adequate clinical history and satisfactory physical examination are often difficult in younger children. Consequently, there is disproportionate reliance on imaging to arrive at the correct diagnosis. The potential for rapid clinical deterioration and long-term sequelae is a risk with some of the conditions presenting with acute hip (septic hip, osteomyelitis). This review article describes the imaging appearance of common etiologies for acute limp in the ambulatory preschool (1–5 years) and school-age child (5–12 years). The ultimate goal is to familiarize the interpreting radiologist with the imaging appearance of specific clinical entities that lead to acute limp while providing a readily accessible resource on how to image the patient most appropriately and judiciously.
Pediatric Osteochondral Lesions
Authors: Abdullah Selwan , Iyer Ramesh , Shet Narendra
Published: February 2018

Osteochondral lesions are common in children and may arise from a variety of etiologies. Although they most frequently occur in the knee, other joints may be involved including the ankle and elbow. We describe the typical imaging appearance of osteochondral lesions with a focus on radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging. Assessment of the stability of these lesions is of paramount importance in directing management. As such, we describe staging schemes as well as imaging features differentiating stable from unstable lesions. Finally, we briefly discuss management strategies as they correlate to imaging findings.
The Role of Bacterial Natural Products in Predator Defense
Authors: Stallforth Pierre , Klapper Martin , Arp Johannes , Günther Markus
Published: February 2018

Bacterially produced natural products, i.e., low molecular weight metabolites, or derivatives thereof, constitute most of the commercially available antibiotics as well as a large proportion of anticancer drugs. While indispensable as therapeutically active compounds, the ecological roles of many of these bacterial natural products remain poorly understood. Here, we discuss these metabolites in light of ­microbial predator defense: soil bacteria are constantly threatened by a variety of predators and the secretion of low molecular weight toxins enables the producing bacteria to kill or deter the predator. Conversely, a deeper understanding of these microbial predator–prey interactions can lead to the discovery of novel compounds, which in turn can be of therapeutic use.
Use of 5-Fluorouracil for Management of the Thick-Skinned Nose
Authors: Irvine Leslie , Nassif Paul
Published: February 2018

Patients with a thick nasal skin and soft tissue envelope can have unpredictable results and irregular scarring after rhinoplasty surgery. These patients typically have sebaceous tissue over the nasal tip and are particularly susceptible to soft tissue polly beak formation and excess scar tissue in the radix, tip, and septum. Targeted injections of 5-fluorouracil alone or mixed with low concentrations of steroid can be useful to prevent and treat excess postoperative scar tissue deposition. Ideally, four to six injections are performed every 1 to 4 weeks beginning 1 week postoperatively. The injections are most beneficial when performed within the first 3 months after surgery. Even a single injection may improve outcomes with minimal side effects.
Management of the Heavy Brows: Long-Term Surgical Options
Authors: Plowes Hernandez Olga , Montes Bracchini Jose
Published: February 2018

One of the first signs of aging belongs to the upper third of the face. With the aging process, mestizo facial features become more prominent. The thicker skin-soft tissue envelope (S-STE) has a tendency to sag more, hooding of the eyelids tends to be more pronounced, and there is a tendency for eyebrows to droop, specifically the tail of the brows, because of the loss of support. A “tired” or “sad” look implies that the complex eyebrow-upper eyelid is showing one or more of these signs. Different surgical as well as non-surgical techniques have been described to treat this area, every one of them aiming at making the patient look rested and natural. The objective of this study is to describe a technique for endoscopic brow lifting, consisting on minimal incisions, a biplanar dissection, and a different fixation technique designed for helping reshape the brow. This particular surgical technique has shown the advantage of being minimally invasive and effective. Careful analysis of the patient should be made to decide both the technique and the changes desired by the patient and the surgeon. The authors believe the technique described is another option for approaching and fixating the heavy eyebrows in mestizo patients.
Indications and Use of Isotretinoin in Facial Plastic Surgery
Authors: Kirchberger Michael , Ruzicka Thomas , Berking Carola , Heppt Werner , Heppt Markus
Published: February 2018

Isotretinoin is a first generation retinoid with pleiotropic effects on keratinocyte differentiation, proliferation, and activity of sebaceous glands. For years, there has been intense debate on whether the use of isotretinoin combined with cosmetic or surgical procedures is safe and potentially more efficient than either therapy alone. Due to delays in wound healing and keloid formation, conservative recommendations were not to combine isotretinoin with any plastic surgery or local treatment at 6 to 12 months after discontinuation of the drug. However, there is increasing evidence that a combination approach is not only safe, but may also provide excellent cosmetic outcomes in acne scars, sebaceous gland hyperplasia, and thick-skinned patients undergoing facial plastic surgery. In particular, low-dose regimens of isotretinoin may offer advantages over standard dosage treatments because of better tolerability and safety in long-term use adjunct with surgical interventions. In this article, the authors aim to summarize the current evidence on the use of isotretinoin in facial plastic surgery and to share their experience from selected patients.