bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The utilization of thermomechanical pulp fibers in WPC: A review
Authors: Mertens Oliver , Gurr Julius , Krause Andreas
Published: April 2017

Thermomechanical pulp (TMP), among other natural fibers, features characteristics that make it a promising candidate for the utilization in polymer composites. This review is providing an overview on the current state of research on TMP reinforced polymer composites. More than 50 references were reviewed. The cited literature is catalogued according to pretreatments, batch or continuous procedures, processing at laboratory or industrial scale, fiber contents, polymer types, coupling agents as well as wood species. The reinforcing potential of TMP utilized in composites is demonstrated. Tensile strength was found to be peaking at a fiber content of around 40 wt %. Fiber morphology is presumed to be an important determinator for composite properties. Specific mechanical energy [kWh/kg] is presented as an indicator suitable to compare the influence of various processes on fiber morphology. Furthermore, the feed‐in and dosing issue that generally accompanies the utilization of cellulosic fibers is described and possible solutions are discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45161.
Brief Report: Genetic Variation of the α1‐Antitrypsin Gene Is Associated With Increased Autoantibody Production in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: McCarthy Cormac , Orr Carl , Fee Laura T. , Carroll Tomás P. , Dunlea Danielle M. , Hunt David J. L. , Dunne Eimear , O'Connell Paul , McCarthy Geraldine , Kenny Dermot , Fearon Ursula , Veale Douglas J. , Reeves Emer P. , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To examine the prevalence of α1‐antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to determine whether AATD is associated with higher levels of rheumatoid factor (RF), antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), and anti–citrullinated peptide autoantibodies (ACPAs).

Methods

RF, ANAs, and ACPAs were measured by standard immunoturbidimetry, immunofluorescence assay, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Characterization of AAT phenotypes was performed by isoelectric focusing and immunofixation. The chi‐square test with Yates' correction and the Mann‐Whitney U test were used to assess the prevalence of alleles associated with AATD in RA and to compare mean antibody titers, respectively.

Results

Of 246 patients with RA, 24 who were heterozygous for AATD were identified, with no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of AATD between RA patients and the general population (P = 0.39). A positive association between heterozygosity for AATD and the production of ACPAs was observed (P < 0.0001), with increased ACPA titers recorded in the AATD RA cohort compared with the general population (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

AAT heterozygous status in RA is strongly associated with positive ACPAs and may define a distinct subset of patients with increased disease severity.
Unusual Assembly and Conversion of Graphene Quantum Dots into Crystalline Graphite Nanocapsules
Authors: Gao Jian , Xu Chenyu , Hu Yue , Zhao Fei , Shao Changxiang , Zhao Yang , Chen Shilv , Qu Liangti
Published: April 2017

The development of a facile strategy for conversion of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) into crystalline graphite is of great practical significance and still remains challenging. Herein, rationally assembled crystalline‐intercrossed graphite nanocapsules (CI‐GNCs) have been realized by a one‐step electrochemically induced strategy with the assistance of a soft template, in which the GQDs act as the initial building blocks. The as‐prepared CI‐GNCs exhibit highly crystalline graphitic nanostructures. Moreover, they possess promising electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen reaction reduction (ORR) in alkaline medium. This simple fabrication technology presents a great advance for synthesizing CI‐GNCs composite catalysts, which have potential as new metal‐free catalysts for efficient ORR applications.
Validated UHPLC–MS/MS assay for quantitative determination of etoposide, gemcitabine, vinorelbine and their metabolites in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Gong Xiaobin , Yang Le , Zhang Feng , Liang Youtian , Gao Shouhong , Liu Ke , Chen Wansheng
Published: April 2017

A fully valid UHPLC–MS/MS method was developed for the determination of etoposide, gemcitabine, vinorelbine and their metabolites (etoposide catechol, 2′,2′‐difluorodeoxyuridine and 4‐O‐deacetylvinorelbine) in human plasma. The multiple reaction monitoring mode was performed with an electrospray ionization interface operating in both the positive and negative ion modes per compound. The method required only 100 μL plasma with a one‐step simple de‐proteinization procedure, and a short run time of 7.5 min per sample. A Waters ACQUITY UPLC HSS T3 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) provided chromatographic separation of analytes using a binary mobile phase gradient (A, 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile, v/v; B, 0.1% formic acid in water, v/v). Linear coefficients of correlation were >0.995 for all analytes. The relative deviation of this method was <10% for intra‐ and inter‐day assays and the accuracy ranged between 86.35% and 113.44%. The mean extraction recovery and matrix effect of all the analytes were 62.07–105.46% and 93.67–105.87%, respectively. This method was successfully applied to clinical samples from patients with lung cancer.
The anterolateral ligament: A cadaveric study in fetuses
Authors: Toro‐Ibarguen Ainhoa Nekane , Pretell‐Mazzini Juan , Pérez Elena , Pedrajas Isabel , Cano‐Egea Juan Miguel , Ramón Sanudo Jose
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to determine the presence and morphology of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) of the knee in a sample of fetuses. We hypothesized that the ALL is present in sample fetuses and its origin is not related to repetitive stresses throughout life. Forty fresh‐frozen knees from cadaveric fetuses were dissected using a standard technique. The ALL and other structures in the anterolateral compartment of the knee were identified. The details of the femoral and tibial attachments, course and relationships with anatomical structures of the ALL were identified, recorded, and quantitatively characterized. The ALL was identified in 100% of the dissected knees. We found three anatomical patterns regarding the femoral attachment: (1) Proximal and posterior to the fibular collateral ligament (55%); (2) Together with the fibular collateral ligament (25%); and (3). Anterior and distal to it (20%). The ALL was extracapsular with an oblique course attaching into the anterolateral aspect of the tibia, midway between the midpoint of Gerdy's tubercle and the fibular head. The ALL has a strong attachment to the lateral meniscus, creating two fascicles: proximal or meniscofemoral and distal or meniscotibial. The ALL is a constant, extracapsular anatomical structure in the anterolateral compartment of the knee, present from the later prenatal period of life. Its morphology shows three different patterns of femoral attachment in relation to the fibular collateral ligament position, a strong attachment in the lateral meniscus, and a constant tibial attachment. Clin. Anat. 30:625–634, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Palladium on Polydopamine: Its True Potential in Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenations and Heck Coupling Reactions
Authors: Kunfi Attila , Szabó Vivien , Mastalir Ágnes , Bucsi Imre , Mohai Miklós , Németh Péter , Bertóti Imre , London Gábor
Published: April 2017

The application of Pd–polydopamine and magnetic Fe3O4@Pd–polydopamine catalysts in catalytic transfer hydrogenation reactions and the Heck arylation is reported. The reduction of a wide range of aromatic nitro‐compounds bearing both electron‐donating and ‐withdrawing substituents to the corresponding anilines could be efficiently performed, although the reduction of carbonyl compounds was found to be less general. In the latter case, only aromatic ketones could be reduced to the corresponding alcohols, whereas aldehyde substrates were unaffected, which may be owing to their reaction with the catalyst support leading to catalyst deactivation. By using magnetic Fe3O4@Pd–polydopamine system, facilitated catalyst recovery and reuse for five consecutive cycles without considerable loss of activity in nitro‐group reduction. The efficiency of the catalyst in Heck reactions was comparable to that in transfer hydrogenation, however, no catalytic activity was observed upon reuse in this case, likely as a result of metal leaching. We also explored tandem Heck reaction/catalytic transfer hydrogenation sequences, however, the two reactions showed limited compatibility under the applied conditions.
Stereoselective and Enantiospecific Mono‐ and Bis‐C−H Azidation of Tröger Bases: Insight on Bridgehead Iminium Intermediates and Application to Anion‐Binding Catalysis
Authors: Bosmani Alessandro , Pujari Sandip A. , Besnard Céline , Guénée Laure , Poblador‐Bahamonde Amalia I. , Lacour Jérôme
Published: April 2017

In the context of Tröger base chemistry, regio‐ and stereoselective Csp3−H azidation reactions are reported. Azide functional groups are introduced at either one or the two benzylic positions selectively. Mild conditions and good yields are afforded by the combination of TMSN3 and iodosobenzene PhIO. The process occurs with high enantiospecificity (es 96–99 %) and—interestingly and importantly—via bridgehead iminium intermediates as shown by mechanistic and in‐silico studies. Finally, mono‐ and bistriazole derivatives were prepared in high yields and enantiospecificity by using copper‐catalyzed alkyne azide cycloaddition (CuAAC) reactions; some of the products were used as anion‐binding organocatalysts for the tritylation of amines and alcohols.
3‐Nitro‐2‐pyridinesulfenates as Efficient Solution‐ and Solid‐Phase Disulfide Bond Forming Agents
Authors: Taguchi Akihiro , Kobayashi Kiyotaka , Kotani Akira , Muguruma Kyohei , Kobayashi Misaki , Fukumoto Kentarou , Takayama Kentaro , Hakamata Hideki , Hayashi Yoshio
Published: April 2017

In this paper, a new disulfide‐forming agent based on the finding that alkoxy 3‐nitro‐2‐pyridinesulfenates (Npys‐OR) can oxidize thiol groups is reported. Methyl 3‐nitro‐2‐pyridinesulfenate (Npys‐OMe), which is easily prepared from 3‐nitro‐2‐pyridinesulfenyl chloride in a one‐step reaction and has a reduction peak potential (Epc) of −0.541 V versus Ag/AgCl, produces the cyclic nonapeptide oxytocin from its linear form in good yield (92 %) with minimal oligomer formation. Npys‐OMe in the solid phase also demonstrated excellent results in oxytocin synthesis. Other disulfide‐containing peptides, such as α‐human atrial natriuretic peptide and α‐conotoxin ImI, were also successfully synthesized. During these syntheses, no side reactions of methionine (Met) and tryptophan (Trp) residues or the S‐acetamidomethyl (Acm) protecting group were detected. These results suggested that Npys‐OMe or its solid‐phase analog provides a new strategy for regioselective disulfide bond formation to assist the synthesis of complex disulfide‐rich peptides.
Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide to Methanol Catalyzed by Iron, Cobalt, and Manganese Cyclopentadienone Complexes: Mechanistic Insights and Computational Design
Authors: Ge Hongyu , Chen Xiangyang , Yang Xinzheng
Published: April 2017

Density functional theory study of the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol catalyzed by iron, cobalt, and manganese cyclopentadienone complexes reveals a self‐promoted mechanism, which features a methanol‐ or water‐molecule‐assisted proton transfer for the cleavage of H2. The total free energy barrier of the formation of methanol from CO2 and H2 catalyzed by Knölker's iron cyclopentadienone complex, [2,5‐(SiMe3)2‐3,4‐(CH2)4(η5‐C4COH)]Fe(CO)2H, is 26.0 kcal mol−1 in the methanol solvent. We also evaluated the catalytic activities of 8 other experimentally reported iron cyclopentadienone complexes and 37 iron, cobalt, and manganese cyclopentadienone complexes proposed in this study. In general, iron and manganese complexes have relatively higher catalytic activities. Among all calculated complexes, [2,5‐(SiMe3)2‐3,4‐CH3CHSCH2(η5‐C4COH)]Fe(CO)2H (1Fe‐Casey‐S‐CH3) is the most active one with a total free energy barrier of 25.1 kcal mol−1 in the methanol solvent. Such a low barrier indicates that 1Fe‐Casey‐S‐CH3 is a very promising low‐cost and high efficiency catalyst for the conversion of CO2 and H2 to methanol under mild conditions.
The Elusive Palladium‐Diazo Adduct Captured: Synthesis, Isolation and Structural Characterization of [(ArNHC‐PPh2)Pd(η2‐N2C(Ph)CO2Et)]
Authors: Rull Silvia G. , Álvarez Eleuterio , Fructos Manuel R. , Belderrain Tomás R. , Pérez Pedro J.
Published: April 2017

The first example of a diazo palladium adduct is reported. The complexes [(ArNHC−PPh2)M(η2‐N2C(Ph)CO2Et)] (M=Ni, 3; M=Pd, 4; ArNHC−PPh2=3‐(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐1‐[(diphenylphosphino)ethyl]imidazol‐2‐ylidene) were prepared by ligand exchange with styrene‐coordinated precursors [(ArNHC−PPh2)M(styrene)] (M=Ni, 1; M=Pd, 2). Complex 4 was fully characterized, including X‐ray analyses; this constitutes the first example of a diazo adduct compound with palladium, thereby closing the gap between Groups 8 and 10 regarding this type of compounds.
Production of menthol‐loaded nanoparticles by solvent displacement
Authors: Ferri Ada , Kumari Naveeta , Peila Roberta , Barresi Antonello A.
Published: April 2017

The production of menthol‐loaded poly‐ϵ‐caprolactone nanoparticles (NPs) for dermal application was investigated. The nanoparticles were produced in three different mixers: a confined impinging jet mixer (CIJM), a two‐inlet vortex mixer (VM), and a four‐inlet vortex mixer (MIVM), testing their performances in the same operating conditions. The effects of various process parameters such as polymer and menthol concentration, flow rate, solvent type (acetone, acetonitrile, or THF), and quench ratio, on mean nanoparticle size, menthol loading, and encapsulation efficiency were compared and discussed. The amount of menthol encapsulated inside the nanoparticles was quantified by GC analysis and the structure and shape of the NPs were analyzed by TEM. Nanoparticles of sizes between 200 nm to 800 nm were obtained using the CIJM, the VM, and the MIVM with different feeding sequences. It was observed that mixer geometry had a strong effect on particle size (at the same operating conditions the size decreased from MIVM with two inlets to VM and to CIJM) and the smallest particles were obtained using the MIVM using one solvent and three antisolvent streams. By using acetonitrile, the mean nanoparticle size was larger. Incorporation efficiency and menthol loading values up to 80 % and 60 % respectively were obtained depending on the inlet menthol and polymer concentrations.
Effect of a heat pretreatment on the structure and properties of carbon supports for carbon membranes
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Zhang Bing , Jiang Yuan , Wu Yonghong , Wang Tonghua , Qiu Jieshan
Published: April 2017

A heat pretreatment was developed to modify the microstructure and properties of the phenolic resin‐based carbon supports for the preparation of carbon membranes. The pore size distribution, porosity, surface functional groups, microstructure, and morphology of the supports were characterized by bubble pressure method, boiling method, infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Furthermore, the optimum preparation conditions of the as‐prepared supports were validated by the fabrication of supported carbon membranes. The results show that the heat pretreatment at 280 °C is helpful for the supports to tolerate the high temperature of subsequent pyrolysis and improve the adhesion to surface carbon membrane layers. When supported carbon membranes were prepared by the heat pretreated supports, spin‐coating of 4 times, and pyrolysis at 650 °C, the ideal selectivities of H2/N2 and O2/N2 can reach 52.8 and 8.0, respectively.
Procedural success and intra‐hospital outcome related to left atrial appendage morphology in patients that receive an interventional left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Fastner Christian , Behnes Michael , Sartorius Benjamin , Wenke Annika , El‐Battrawy Ibrahim , Ansari Uzair , Gill Ishar‐Singh , Borggrefe Martin , Akin Ibrahim
Published: April 2017

Background

The interventional left atrial appendage (LAA) closure represents an emerging alternative to oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention in certain atrial fibrillation patients. Preliminary results have suggested high procedural success rates and fewer peri‐interventional complications; however, there persists an insufficient understanding of the role of many underlying confounding variables (e.g., anatomical characteristics).

Hypothesis

It was investigated whether varying LAA morphologies influence procedural success as well as in‐hospital outcome.

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients ineligible for long‐term oral anticoagulation were included in this single‐center, prospective, observational registry spanning from the years 2014 to 2016. Interventions were performed with the Watchman occluder (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA) or the Amplatzer Amulet (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN), at the operator's discretion. Results derived from the data describing procedural success, fluoroscopy, and peri‐interventional safety events were classified according to the presenting LAA morphology (cauliflower, cactus, windsock, and chicken wing).

Results

Rates of successful implantation were high across all groups (≥98%; P = 0.326). Surrogate parameters underlining procedural complexity like median total duration (P = 0.415), median fluoroscopy time (P = 0.459), median dose area product (P = 0.698), and the median amount of contrast agent (P = 0.076) demonstrated similar results across all groups. Likewise, the periprocedural complication rate was not significantly different and was mainly restricted to minor bleeding events.

Conclusions

Irrespective of the varying morphological presentation of the LAA, the procedural success rates, interventional characteristics, and safety events did not significantly differ among patients receiving an interventional LAA closure.
Tau‐based fluorescent protein fusions to visualize microtubules
Authors: Mooney Paul , Sulerud Taylor , Pelletier James F. , Dilsaver Matthew R. , Tomschik Miroslav , Geisler Christoph , Gatlin Jesse C.
Published: April 2017

The ability to visualize cytoskeletal proteins and their dynamics in living cells has been critically important in advancing our understanding of numerous cellular processes, including actin‐ and microtubule (MT)‐dependent phenomena such as cell motility, cell division, and mitosis. Here, we describe a novel set of fluorescent protein (FP) fusions designed specifically to visualize MTs in living systems using fluorescence microscopy. Each fusion contains a FP module linked in frame to a modified phospho‐deficient version of the MT‐binding domain of Tau (mTMBD). We found that expressed and purified constructs containing a single mTMBD decorated Xenopus egg extract spindles more homogenously than similar constructs containing the MT‐binding domain of Ensconsin, suggesting that the binding affinity of mTMBD is minimally affected by localized signaling gradients generated during mitosis. Furthermore, MT dynamics were not grossly perturbed by the presence of Tau‐based FP fusions. Interestingly, the addition of a second mTMBD to the opposite terminus of our construct caused dramatic changes to the spatial localization of probes within spindles. These results support the use of Tau‐based FP fusions as minimally perturbing tools to accurately visualize MTs in living systems.
Cancer incidence profile in sub‐Saharan African‐born blacks in the United States: Similarities and differences with US‐born non‐Hispanic blacks
Authors: Medhanie Genet A. , Fedewa Stacey A. , Adissu Hibret , DeSantis Carol E. , Siegel Rebecca L. , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Sub‐Saharan African‐born blacks (ABs) are one of the fastest‐growing populations in the United States. However, to the authors' knowledge, data regarding the cancer burden in this group are lacking, which would inform targeted cancer prevention and control.

METHODS

The authors calculated age‐standardized proportional incidence ratios (PIRs) comparing the frequency of the top 15 cancers in ABs with that of US‐born non‐Hispanic blacks (USBs) by sex and region of birth using incidence data for 2000 through 2012 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER 17) program.

RESULTS

Compared with USBs, ABs had significantly higher PIRs of infection‐related cancers (liver, stomach, and Kaposi sarcoma), blood cancers (leukemia and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma), prostate cancer, and thyroid cancers (females only). For example, the PIR for Kaposi sarcoma in AB versus USB women was 12.06 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 5.23‐18.90). In contrast, ABs had lower PIRs for smoking‐related and colorectal cancers (eg, for lung cancer among men, the PIR was 0.30 [95% CI, 0.27‐0.34]). Furthermore, cancer occurrence in ABs versus USBs varied by region of birth. For example, the higher PIRs for liver cancer noted among male ABs (PIR, 3.57; 95% CI, 1.79‐5.35) and for thyroid cancer in female ABs (PIR, 3.03; 95% CI, 2.03‐4.02) were confined to Eastern African‐born blacks, whereas the higher PIR for prostate cancer (PIR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.78, 2.02) was confined to Western African‐born blacks.

CONCLUSIONS

The cancer incidence profile of ABs is different from that of USBs and varies by region of birth, suggesting differences in environmental, cultural, social, and genetic factors. The findings of the current study could stimulate etiologic research and help to inform targeted interventions. Cancer 2017;123:3116–24. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Mass Spectrometric and Vibrational Characterization of Reaction Intermediates in [Ru(bpy)(tpy)(H2O)]2+ Catalyzed Water Oxidation
Authors: Voss Jonathan M. , Duffy Erin M. , Marsh Brett M. , Garand Etienne
Published: April 2017

Mass spectrometry coupled with an in‐line electrochemical electrospray ionization source is used to capture some of the reaction intermediates formed in the [Ru(bpy)(tpy)(H2O)]2+ (bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine, tpy=2,2′:6′,2“‐terpyridine) catalyzed water oxidation reaction. By controlling the applied electrochemical potential, we identified the parent complex, as well as the first two oxidation complexes, identified as [Ru(bpy)(tpy)(OH)]2+ and [Ru(bpy)(tpy)(O)]2+. The structures of the parent and first oxidation complexes are probed directly in the mass spectrometer by using infrared predissociation spectroscopy of D2‐tagged ions. Comparisons between experimental vibrational spectra and density functional theory calculations confirmed the identity and structure of these two complexes. Moreover, the frequency of the O−H stretching mode in [Ru(bpy)(tpy)(OH)]2+ shows that this complex features a Ru–OH interaction that is more covalent than ionic.
Process Intensification for Cellulosic Biorefineries
Authors: Sadula Sunitha , Athaley Abhay , Zheng Weiqing , Ierapetritou Marianthi , Saha Basudeb
Published: April 2017

Utilization of renewable carbon source, especially non‐food biomass is critical to address the climate change and future energy challenge. Current chemical and enzymatic processes for producing cellulosic sugars are multistep, and energy‐ and water‐intensive. Techno‐economic analysis (TEA) suggests that upstream lignocellulose processing is a major hurdle to the economic viability of the cellulosic biorefineries. Process intensification, which integrates processes and uses less water and energy, has the potential to overcome the aforementioned challenges. Here, we demonstrate a one‐pot depolymerization and saccharification process of woody biomass, energy crops, and agricultural residues to produce soluble sugars with high yields. Lignin is separated as a solid for selective upgrading. Further integration of our upstream process with a reactive extraction step makes energy‐efficient separation of sugars in the form of furans. TEA reveals that the process efficiency and integration enable, for the first time, economic production of feed streams that could profoundly improve process economics for downstream cellulosic bioproducts.
New Ether‐functionalized Morpholinium‐ and Piperidinium‐based Ionic Liquids as Electrolyte Components in Lithium and Lithium–Ion Batteries
Authors: Navarra Maria Assunta , Fujimura Kanae , Sgambetterra Mirko , Tsurumaki Akiko , Panero Stefania , Nakamura Nobuhumi , Ohno Hiroyuki , Scrosati Bruno
Published: April 2017

Here, two ionic liquids, N‐ethoxyethyl‐N‐methylmorpholinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (M1,2O2TFSI) and N‐ethoxyethyl‐N‐methylpiperidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (P1,2O2TFSI) were synthesized and compared. Fundamental relevant properties, such as thermal and electrochemical stability, density, and ionic conductivity were analyzed to evaluate the effects caused by the presence of the ether bond in the side chain and/or in the organic cation ring. Upon lithium salt addition, two electrolytes suitable for lithium batteries applications were found. Higher conducting properties of the piperidinium‐based electrolyte resulted in enhanced cycling performances when tested with LiFePO4 (LFP) cathode in lithium cells. When mixing the P1,2O2TFSI/LiTFSI electrolyte with a tailored alkyl carbonate mixture, the cycling performance of both Li and Li–ion cells greatly improved, with prolonged cyclability delivering very stable capacity values, as high as the theoretical one in the case of Li/LFP cell configurations.
Doping control study of AICAR in post‐race urine and plasma samples from horses
Authors: Wong Jenny K. Y. , Kwok Wai Him , Chan George H. M. , Choi Timmy L. S. , Ho Emmie N. M. , Jaubert Murielle , Bailly‐Chouriberry Ludovic , Bonnaire Yves , Cawley Adam , Ming Williams H. , Keledjian John , Brooks Lydia , Chambers Adam , Lin Yuanyuan , Wan Terence S. M.
Published: April 2017

Acadesine, 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide‐1‐β‐D‐ribofuranoside, commonly known as AICAR, is a naturally occurring adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator in many mammals, including humans and horses. AICAR has attracted considerable attention recently in the field of doping control because of a study showing the enhancement of endurance performance in unexercised or untrained mice, resulting in the term ‘exercise pill’. Its use has been classified as gene doping by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA), and since it is endogenous, it may only be possible to control deliberate administration of AICAR to racehorses after establishment of an appropriate threshold. Herein we report our studies of AICAR in post‐race equine urine and plasma samples including statistical studies of AICAR concentrations determined from 1,470 urine samples collected from thoroughbreds and standardbreds and analyzed in Australia, France, and Hong Kong. Quantification methods in equine urine and plasma using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry were developed by the laboratories in each country. An exchange of spiked urine and plasma samples between the three countries was conducted, confirming no significant differences in the methods. However, the concentration of AICAR in plasma was found to increase upon haemolysis of whole blood samples, impeding the establishment of a suitable threshold in equine plasma. A possible urine screening cut‐off at 600 ng/mL for the control of AICAR in racehorses could be considered for adoption. Application of the proposed screening cut‐off to urine samples collected after intravenous administration of a small dose (2 g) of AICAR to a mare yielded a short detection time of approximately 4.5 h. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties of Trimetallic Coordination Polymers of Cobalt and Copper
Authors: Das Dhiraj , Bhattacharjee Manish
Published: April 2017

Two isostructural hetero‐trimetallic vanadium metalloligand‐based three‐dimensional (3D) coordination polymers, [M(H2O)4{V2O3L2}K(H2O)3]n·H2O [M = Co (1), Cu (2); H3L = nitrilotriacetic acid] have been synthesized and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In the metalloligand unit, the vanadium centers are in a mixed‐valence state, VV and VIV, where there is partial delocalization of the electron between two vanadium centers. The complexes exhibit antiferromagnetic interactions between the Co/Cu centers and also between the V and Co/Cu centers. Compound 1 shows slow relaxation of the magnetization.
H19 promotes cholestatic liver fibrosis by preventing ZEB1‐mediated inhibition of epithelial cell adhesion molecule
Authors: Song Yongfeng , Liu Chune , Liu Xia , Trottier Jocelyn , Beaudoin Michele , Zhang Li , Pope Chad , Peng Guangyong , Barbier Olivier , Zhong Xiaobo , Li Linheng , Wang Li
Published: April 2017

Based on our recent finding that disruption of bile acid (BA) homeostasis in mice results in the induction of hepatic long noncoding RNA H19 expression, we sought to elucidate the role of H19 in cholestatic liver fibrosis. Hepatic overexpression of H19RNA augmented bile duct ligation (BDL)‐induced liver fibrosis, which was accompanied by the elevation of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, and BA levels. Multiple genes related to liver fibrosis, inflammation, and biliary hyperplasia were increased in H19‐BDL versus null‐BDL mice, whereas genes in BA synthesis were decreased. Livers and spleens of H19‐BDL mice showed significant enrichment of CD3+γδ+, interleukin‐4, and interleukin‐17 producing CD4+ and CD8+ immune cell populations. H19 down‐regulated hepatic zinc finger E‐box‐binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) but up‐regulated epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) and SRY (sex determining region Y)‐box 9 expression. Mechanistically, ZEB1 repressed EpCAM promoter activity and gene transcription. H19RNA impeded ZEB1's inhibitory action by interacting with ZEB1 protein to prevent its binding to the EpCAM promoter. Hepatic overexpression of ZEB1 or knockdown of EpCAM diminished H19‐induced fibrosis; the latter was also prevented in H19
−/− mice. H19RNA was markedly induced by bile acids in mouse small cholangiocytes and to a lesser extent in mouse large cholangiocytes. The up‐regulation of H19RNA and EpCAM correlated positively with the down‐regulation of ZEB1 in primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis liver specimens. Conclusion: The activation of hepatic H19RNA promoted cholestatic liver fibrosis in mice through the ZEB1/EpCAM signaling pathway. (Hepatology 2017;66:1183‐1196).
Efficient replication of blood‐borne hepatitis C virus in human fetal liver stem cells
Authors: Guo Xuan , Wang Shu , Qiu Zhi‐Gang , Dou Ya‐Ling , Liu Wei‐Li , Yang Dong , Shen Zhi‐Qiang , Chen Zhao‐Li , Wang Jing‐Feng , Zhang Bin , Wang Xin‐Wei , Guo Xiang‐Fei , Zhang Xue‐Lian , Jin Min , Li Jun‐Wen
Published: April 2017

The development of pathogenic mechanisms, specific antiviral treatments and preventive vaccines for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been limited due to lack of cell culture models that can naturally imitate the entire HCV life cycle. Here, we established an HCV cell culture model based on human fetal liver stem cells (hFLSCs) that supports the entire blood‐borne hepatitis C virus (bbHCV) life cycle. More than 90% of cells remained infected by various genotypes. bbHCV was efficiently propagated, and progeny virus were infectious to hFLSCs. The virus could be passed efficiently between cells. The viral infectivity was partially blocked by specific antibodies or small interfering RNA against HCV entry factors, whereas HCV replication was inhibited by antiviral drugs. We observed viral particles of approximately 55 nm in diameter in both cell culture media and infected cells after bbHCV infection. Conclusion: Our data show that the entire bbHCV life cycle could be naturally imitated in hFLSCs. This model is expected to provide a powerful tool for exploring the process and the mechanism of bbHCV infection at the cellular level and for evaluating the treatment and preventive strategies of bbHCV infection. (Hepatology 2017;66:1045‐1057).
Transvaginal primary layered repair of iatrogenic vesicovaginal fistula
Authors: Milani Rodolfo , Frigerio Matteo , Manodoro Stefano
Published: April 2017

Transvaginal primary layered repair was safe and effective in restoring the anatomy of a small iatrogenic retrotrigonal vesicovaginal fistula.
Cadmium Exposure and Osteoporosis: A Population-Based Study and Benchmark Dose Estimation in Southern China
Authors: Lv Yingjian , Wang Ping , Huang Rui , Liang Xuxia , Wang Peng , Tan Jianbin , Chen Zihui , Dun Zhongjun , Wang Jing , Jiang Qi , Wu Shixuan , Ling Haituan , Li Zhixue , Yang Xingfen
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to assess the association between osteoporosis and long-term environmental Cd exposure through diet in southern China. A total of 1116 subjects from a Cd-polluted area and a non-Cd-polluted area were investigated. All subjects met the criteria of having been living in the investigated area for more than 15 years and lived on a subsistence diet of rice and vegetables grown in that area. Besides bone mineral density, the levels of urinary markers of early renal impairment, such as urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), α1-microglobulin, β2-microglobulin, and urinary albumin, were also determined. Urinary Cd concentrations of all studied subjects ranged from 0.21 to 87.31 µg/g creatinine, with a median of 3.97 µg/g creatinine. Multivariate linear regression models indicated a significant negative association of urinary Cd concentrations with bone mineral density. In logistic regression models, both categorical and continuous urinary Cd concentrations were positively associated with osteoporosis. Subjects in the second, third, and fourth quartiles of urinary Cd concentration had greater odds of osteoporosis compared with subjects in the first quartile (odds ratio [OR] = 3.07, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.77 to 5.33; OR = 4.63, 95% CI, 2.68 to 7.98; OR = 9.15, 95% CI, 5.26 to 15.94, respectively). Additional adjustment for levels of urinary markers did not attenuate the associations. No evidence existed of an interaction between urinary Cd concentration and renal function using levels of urinary markers, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). In all subjects, the benchmark dose and benchmark dose lower bound were 1.14 (0.61) and 2.73 (1.83) µg/g creatinine, with benchmark response set at 5% and 10%, respectively. The benchmark dose of urinary Cd was lower in women than in men. This study demonstrated an inverse association between the body burden of Cd and osteoporosis. The toxic effect of Cd on bone may occur in parallel to nephrotoxicity. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms in Serbian Patients With Bronchial Asthma: A Case‐Control Study
Authors: Despotovic Milena , Jevtovic Stoimenov Tatjana , Stankovic Ivana , Basic Jelena , Pavlovic Dusica
Published: April 2017

Vitamin D and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene are potentially involved in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma (BA); however, precise mechanisms by which vitamin D reduces the inflammation and the role of VDR SNPs in BA are not completely understood. The aim of this study was to examine the possible associations of FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI SNPs with BA. A total of 168 subjects were screened for VDR SNPs using polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method. The obtained results showed statistically significant differences in the distribution of FokI genotypes (df = 2; P = 0.008) and alleles (P = 0.002; OR = 0.446; 95%CI = 0.264–0.752) between patients and controls. Distributions of BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI genotypes and alleles did not show statistical differences. BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI SNPs are in linkage disequilibrium (LD) in the whole studied group, as well as in BA patients and controls. The strongest LD was observed between BsmI and TaqI (r2 = 0.69 for all subjects in the study; r2 = 0.75 in BA; r2 = 0.64 in controls), while lower values of LD were observed for BsmI and ApaI, and ApaI and TaqI SNPs. This is the first study that examined the association of VDR SNPs (FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI) in Serbian patients with BA indicating protective effect of FF genotype and F allele of FokI SNP on BA development. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3986–3992, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thrombin Induces CCL2 Expression in Human Lung Fibroblasts via p300 Mediated Histone Acetylation and NF‐KappaB Activation
Authors: Deng Xiaoling , Zhou Xiaoqiong , Deng Yan , Liu Fan , Feng Xiaofan , Yin Qi , Gu Yinzhen , Shi Songlin , Xu Mingyan
Published: April 2017

Thrombin has been shown to play a key role in lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis via the induction of fibrotic cytokine‐ chemokine (CC motif) ligand‐2 (CCL2) expression. We previously reported that transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) is responsible for thrombin‐induced CCL2 expression in human lung fibroblasts (HLFs). Here, we extended our study to investigate the epigenetic regulation mechanism for thrombin‐induced CCL2 expression in HLFs. HLFs were cultured in F‐12 medium. CCL2 protein and mRNA levels were detected by ELISA and quantitative real‐time PCR, respectively. Histone, histone acetyltransferases, and NF‐κB binding to CCL2 promoter were detected by ChIP assay. NF‐κB activation was detected by Western blotting. We revealed that increased binding of histone acetyltransferase p300 and acetylated histone H3 and H4 to CCL2 promoter are responsible for thrombin induced CCL2 expression in HLF cells. In addition, p300 inhibition attenuates both thrombin induced‐CCL2 expression and histone H3 and H4 acetylation in HLFs, suggesting that p300 is involved in thrombin‐induced CCL2 expression via hyperacetylating histone H3 and H4. Our data further showed that p300 also regulates CCL2 expression via interaction with NF‐κB p65, as depletion of p300 inhibits both NF‐κB p65 activation and its binding to CCL2 promoter. The findings strongly suggest that epigenetic dysregulation and the interaction between histone acetyltransferase and transcription factor may be responsible for thrombin induced‐CCL2 expression in HLFs. Increased understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms of CCL2 regulation may provide opportunities for identifying novel molecular targets for therapeutic purposes. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4012–4019, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Tumor Suppressor Gene Product, Platelet‐Derived Growth Factor Receptor‐Like Protein Controls Chondrocyte Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Kawata Kazumi , Kubota Satoshi , Eguchi Takanori , Aoyama Eriko , Moritani Norifumi H. , Oka Morihiko , Kawaki Harumi , Takigawa Masaharu
Published: April 2017

The platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐like (PDGFRL) gene is regarded as a tumor suppressor gene. However, nothing is known about the molecular function of PDGFRL. In this study, we initially clarified its function in chondrocytes. Among all cell lines examined, the PDGFRL mRNA level was the highest in chondrocytic HCS‐2/8 cells. Interestingly, the proliferation of chondrocytic HCS‐2/8 cells was promoted by PDGFRL overexpression, whereas that of the breast cancer‐derived MDA‐MB‐231 cells was inhibited. Of note, in PDGFRL‐overexpressing HCS‐2/8 cells, the expression of chondrocyte differentiation marker genes, SOX9, ACAN, COL2A1, COL10A1, and ALP, was decreased. Moreover, we confirmed the expression of PDGFRL mRNA in normal cartilage tissue and chondrocytes. Eventually, the expression of PDGFRL mRNA in condrocytes except in the case of hypertrophic chondrocytes was demonstrated in vivo and in vitro. These findings suggest that PDGFRL plays the different roles, depending upon cell types. Particularly, in chondrocytes, PDGFRL may play a new and important role which is distinct from the function previously reported. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4033–4044, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Ultraviolet Radiation on Glioma: Systematic Review
Authors: Pronin Savva , Koh Chan Hee , Hughes Mark
Published: April 2017

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most aggressive primary brain tumor. Treatment is largely palliative, with current strategies unable to prevent inevitable tumor recurrence. Implantable micro‐electromechanical systems are becoming more feasible for the management of several human diseases. These systems may have a role in detecting tumor recurrence and delivering localized therapies. One potential therapeutic tool is ultraviolet (UV) light. This systematic review assesses the effects of UV light on glioma cells. A total of 47 publications are included. The large majority were in vitro experiments conducted on human glioblastoma cell lines in monolayer. In these cells, UV light was shown to induce apoptosis and the expression of genes or activation of proteins that modulate cell death, repair, and proliferation. The nature and magnitude of cellular response varied by UV wavelength, dose, cell line, and time after irradiation. UVC (wavelength 100–280 nm) was most effective at inducing apoptosis, and this effect was dose dependent. The included studies had varied methodologies, complicating reconciliation of results. Further work will be required to determine the best regime of UV irradiation for therapeutic use. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4063–4071, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acyl‐CoA synthetase short‐chain family member 2 (ACSS2) is regulated by SREBP‐1 and plays a role in fatty acid synthesis in caprine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Xu Huifen , Luo Jun , Ma Gongzhen , Zhang Xueying , Yao Dawei , Li Ming , Loor Juan J.
Published: April 2017

Sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP‐1) is well‐known as the master regulator of lipogenesis in rodents. Acyl‐CoA synthetase short‐chain family member 2 (ACSS2) plays a key role in lipogenesis by synthesizing acetyl‐CoA from acetate for lipogenesis. ATP citrate lyase (ACLY) catalyzes the conversion of citrate and coenzyme A to acetyl‐CoA, hence, it is also important for lipogenesis. Although ACSS2 function in cancer cells has been elucidated, its essentiality in ruminant mammary lipogenesis is unknown. Furthermore, ACSS2 gene promoter and its regulatory mechanisms have not known. Expression of ACSS2 was high in lipid synthesizing tissues, and its expression increased during lactation compared with non‐lactating period. Simultaneous knockdown of both ACSS2 and ACLY by siRNA in primary goat mammary epithelial cells decreased (p < 0.05) the mRNA abundance of genes associated with de novo fatty acid synthesis (FASN, ACACA, SCD1) and triacylglycerol (TAG) synthesis (DGAT1, DGAT2, GPAM, and AGPAT6). Genes responsible for lipid droplet formation and secretion (PLIN2 and PLIN3) and fatty acid oxidation (ATGL, HSL, ACOX, and CPT1A) all decreased (p < 0.05) after ACSS2 and ACLY knockdown. Total cellular TAG content and lipid droplet formation also decreased. Use of a luciferase reporter assay revealed a direct regulation of ACSS2 by SREBP‐1. Furthermore, SREBP‐1 interacted with an SRE (SREBP response element) spanning at −475 to −483 bp on the ACSS2 promoter. Taken together, our results revealed a novel pathway that SREBP‐1 may regulate fatty acid and TAG synthesis by regulating the expression of ACSS2.
Leptin accelerates the pathogenesis of heterotopic ossification in rat tendon tissues via mTORC1 signaling
Authors: Jiang Huaji , Chen Yuhui , Chen Guorong , Tian Xinggui , Tang Jiajun , Luo Lei , Huang Minjun , Yan Bin , Ao Xiang , Zhou Wen , Wang Liping , Bai Xiaochun , Zhang Zhongmin , Wang Liang , Xian Cory J.
Published: April 2017

Leptin, an adipocyte‐derived cytokine associated with bone metabolism, is believed to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of heterotopic ossification (HO). The effect and underlying action mechanism of leptin were investigated on osteogenic differentiation of tendon‐derived stem cells (TDSCs) in vitro and the HO formation in rat tendons. Isolated rat TDSCs were treated with various concentrations of leptin in the presence or absence of mTORC1 signaling specific inhibitor rapamycin in vitro. A rat model with Achilles tenotomy was employed to evaluate the effect of leptin on HO formation together with or without rapamycin treatment. In vitro studies with TDSCs showed that leptin increased the expression of osteogenic biomarkers (alkaline phosphatase, runt‐related transcription factor 2, osterix, osteocalcin) and enhanced mineralization of TDSCs via activating the mTORC1 signal pathway (as indicated by phosphorylation of p70 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 and p70 ribosomal S6). However, mTORC1 signaling blockade with rapamycin treatment suppressed leptin‐induced osteogenic differentiation and mineralization. In vivo studies showed that leptin promoted HO formation in the Achilles tendon after tenotomy, and rapamycin treatment blocked leptin‐induced HO formation. In conclusion, leptin can promote TDSC osteogenic differentiation and heterotopic bone formation via mTORC1 signaling in both vitro and vivo model, which provides a new potential therapeutic target for HO prevention.
Acute onset collagenous colitis associated with protein‐losing enteropathy
Authors: Nakaya Yuichiro , Kaku Hosokawa Sawako , Kataoka Yuki , Hirabayashi Masataka , Yamamoto Shuhei , Takasu Kosho , Kitamura Satoru , Omae Takahito , Yoshimatsu Yuki
Published: April 2017

Collagenous colitis is a cause of chronic diarrhea. We report an atypical case of collagenous colitis, presenting with an acute onset, and associated with protein‐losing enteropathy. An 82‐year‐old woman was admitted with a 1 week history of nausea, appetite loss, and diarrhea. Serum albumin level was low. Protein leakage from the small intestine was found by a Technetium‐99m human serum albumin scintigraphy. We diagnosed the patient with collagenous colitis from pathology findings of multiple biopsies taken from the colon. This case implies that collagenous colitis should be considered in acute watery diarrhea, and that it can cause protein‐losing enteropathy.
Management of neuropathic pain
Authors: Nishikawa Noriko , Nomoto Masahiro
Published: April 2017

Neuropathic pain is intractable pain caused by damage to the nervous system. Recent approval and expansion of the indications of a series of drugs are expected to improve the treatment strategies for neuropathic pain. Here, we present an outline of pain transmission pathways and relevant pharmacological effects, along with points to consider in the use of neuropathic pain medications according to the guidelines of Japan Society of Pain Clinicians. The content of this article is almost similar to my other Japanese article that was published in the Journal of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine. Although complete recovery from pain may be difficult, pharmacotherapy can relieve pain, thereby improving the patients’ quality of life.
Metronidazole‐induced encephalopathy associated with treatment for liver abscesses
Authors: Hanji Yurika , Sasaki Yosuke , Matsumoto Yosuke , Maeda Tadashi , Urita Yoshihisa
Published: April 2017

Metronidazole‐induced encephalopathy (MIE) is a rare condition in Japan. We report the case of a patient with MIE who presented with abducens paralysis and ataxia without underlying risk factors. A history of metronidazole (MNZ) administration and rapid improvement after MNZ discontinuation are important in making this diagnosis, and characteristic findings of magnetic resonance imaging support the diagnosis. MIE is expected to become common in Japan as the use of MNZ increases because of expanded insurance coverage. Therefore, MIE needs to be recognized as a differential diagnosis of the central nervous symptoms in patients taking MNZ.