bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ionic Liquids as Extractor Agents and Reaction Media in Ester Synthesis
Authors: Hernández Fernández Francisco José , Pérez de los Ríos Antonia , Quesada‐Medina Joaquín , Sánchez‐Segado Sergio
Published: February 2015

During the last decade, ionic liquids technology has received growing attention due to the advantages they offer with respect to organic solvents. Although, in many cases, ionic liquids have simply been used to replace organic solvents, mainly due to their lack of vapor pressure, they have often led to improve process. In this work, the focus is on the application of ionic liquid technology as reaction media in the enzymatic synthesis of esters and also as extractor agents in the separation of reaction mixtures in the synthesis of esters. As reaction media, ionic liquids are opening up new fields in nonaqueous enzymology. The advantages of using ionic liquids over the use of organic solvents as reaction medium for biocatalysis include enhancement of enzyme activity, stability and selectivity. In this work, the effect of the nature of the ionic liquid on activity, selectivity, and stability of enzymes which catalyze esters synthesis has been carefully analyzed. The use of ionic liquids as extraction agent is also overviewed. Specifically, liquid‐liquid extraction using ionic liquids and supported liquid membranes based on ionic liquids have been studied.
Toward Functional Type III [Fe]‐Hydrogenase Biomimics for H2 Activation: Insights from Computation
Authors: Murray Kevin A. , Wodrich Matthew D. , Hu Xile , Corminboeuf Clémence
Published: February 2015

The chemistry of [Fe]‐hydrogenase has attracted significant interest due to its ability to activate molecular hydrogen. The intriguing properties of this enzyme have prompted the synthesis of numerous small molecule mimics aimed at activating H2. Despite considerable effort, a majority of these compounds remain nonfunctional for hydrogenation reactions. By using a recently synthesized model as an entry point, seven biomimetic complexes have been examined through DFT computations to probe the influence of ligand environment on the ability of a mimic to bind and split H2. One mimic, featuring a bidentate diphosphine group incorporating an internal nitrogen base, was found to have particularly attractive energetics, prompting a study of the role played by the proton/hydride acceptor necessary to complete the catalytic cycle. Computations revealed an experimentally accessible energetic pathway involving a benzaldehyde proton/hydride acceptor and the most promising catalyst.
Cu Nanoparticles Electrodeposited at Liquid–Liquid Interfaces: A Highly Efficient Catalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Aslan Emre , Patir Imren Hatay , Ersoz Mustafa
Published: February 2015

The electrochemical deposition of Cu nanoparticles with an average diameter of approximately 25–35 nm has been reported at liquid–liquid interfaces by using the organic‐phase electron‐donor decamethylferrocene (DMFc). The electrodeposited Cu nanoparticles display excellent catalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER); this is the first reported catalytic effect of Cu nanoparticles at liquid–liquid interfaces.
Non‐Covalent Functionalization of Graphene with Bisphenol A for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Hu Haixiong , Hu Zhongai , Ren Xiaoying , Yang Yuying , Qiang Ruibing , An Ning , Wu Hongying
Published: February 2015

The reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/bisphenol A (BPA) composites were prepared by an adsorption‐reduction method. The composites are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐vis, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results confirm that BPA is adsorbed on the basal plane of RGO by π‐π stacking interaction. Furthermore, the electrochemical behaviors were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results show that the RGO/BPA nanocomposites exhibit ultrahigh specific capacitance of 466 F·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g−1, excellent rate capability (more than 81% retention at 10 A·g−1 relative to 1 A·g−1) and superior cycling stability (90% capacitance decay after 4000 cycles). Consequently, the RGO/BPA nanocomposites can be regarded as promising electrode materials for supercapacitor applications.
Analysis and Identification of the Chemical Constituents of Ding‐Zhi‐Xiao‐Wan Prescription by HPLC‐IT‐MSn and HPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS
Authors: Tang Shiyao , Liu Shu , Liu Zhiqiang , Song Fengrui , Liu Shuying
Published: February 2015

Ding‐Zhi‐Xiao‐Wan (DZXW) is a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, which is composed of four herbs, Ginseng Radix, Poria, Polygala Radix and Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma. It has been popularly used for the treatment of emotional disease, like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, anxiety, forgetfulness and neurasthenia. In this research, a high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐IT‐MSn) method along with a high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (HPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) method in negative ion mode was established to investigate the major constitutions in DZXW. The extracts were prepared by ultra‐sonication in ethyl acetate, n‐butanol, 95% ethanol and deionized water sequentially as well as in deionized water directly. A Kromasil C18 column was used to separate the extracts of DZXW. Acetonitrile and 0.1% aqueous formic acid (V/V) were used as the mobile phase. A total of 64 components were characterized, including 16 triterpenoids, 14 Polygala saponins, 10 oligosaccharide esters, 6 sucrose esters, 2 xanthone C‐glycosides and 16 ginsenosides.
Enantioselective Synthesis of N‐Phenyl‐dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles via Cascade Michael Addition/Thorpe‐Ziegler Type Cyclization Catalyzed by a Chiral Squaramide
Authors: Li Junhua , Du Daming
Published: February 2015

Enantioselective synthesis of biologically active dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles has been achieved through a squaramide‐catalysed Michael addition/Thorpe‐Ziegler type cyclization cascade reaction between arylidenepyrazolones and malononitrile. A series of optically active dihydropyano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles were obtained in excellent yields (up to 99%) and moderate to good enantioselectivities (up to 79% ee) under mild reaction conditions.
Personalizing annual lung cancer screening for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A decision analysis
Authors: Lowry Kathryn P. , Gazelle G. Scott , Gilmore Michael E. , Johanson Colden , Munshi Vidit , Choi Sung Eun , Tramontano Angela C. , Kong Chung Yin , McMahon Pamela M.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer screening with annual chest computed tomography (CT) is recommended for current and former smokers with a ≥30‐pack‐year smoking history. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at increased risk of developing lung cancer and may benefit from screening at lower pack‐year thresholds.

METHODS

We used a previously validated simulation model to compare the health benefits of lung cancer screening in current and former smokers ages 55‐80 with ≥30 pack‐years with hypothetical programs using lower pack‐year thresholds for individuals with COPD (≥20, ≥10, and ≥1 pack‐years). Calibration targets for COPD prevalence and associated lung cancer risk were derived using the Framingham Offspring Study limited data set. We performed sensitivity analyses to evaluate the stability of results across different rates of adherence to screening, increased competing mortality risk from COPD, and increased surgical ineligibility in individuals with COPD. The primary outcome was projected life expectancy.

RESULTS

Programs using lower pack‐year thresholds for individuals with COPD yielded the highest life expectancy gains for a given number of screens. Highest life expectancy was achieved when lowering the pack‐year threshold to ≥1 pack‐year for individuals with COPD, which dominated all other screening strategies. These results were stable across different adherence rates to screening and increases in competing mortality risk for COPD and surgical ineligibility.

CONCLUSIONS

Current and former smokers with COPD may disproportionately benefit from lung cancer screening. A lower pack‐year threshold for screening eligibility may benefit this high‐risk patient population.Cancer2015;121:1556–1562. ©2015 American Cancer Society.
Phase 1b study of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor sirolimus in combination with nanoparticle albumin–bound paclitaxel in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Abu‐Khalaf Maysa M. , Baumgart Megan A. , Gettinger Scott N. , Doddamane Indukala , Tuck David P. , Hou Shihe , Chen Nianhang , Sullivan Catherine , Lezon‐Geyda Kimberly , Zelterman Daniel , Hatzis Christos , Deshpande Hari , Digiovanna Michael P. , Azodi Masoud , Schwartz Peter E. , Harris Lyndsay N.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

The optimal weekly oral dose of sirolimus and intravenous nanoparticle albumin–bound paclitaxel (nab‐paclitaxel) were evaluated.

METHODS

A phase 1b study was performed to evaluate escalating doses of oral sirolimus (5‐60 mg) on days 2, 9, and 16 with intravenous nab‐paclitaxel (100 mg/m2) on days 1, 8, and 15 in a 28‐day cycle. A run‐in treatment of nab‐paclitaxel (day −14) and sirolimus (day −7) was administered for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic assessments. Clinical trial endpoints included dose‐limiting toxicities (DLTs), maximum tolerated doses, and response rates. Pharmacodynamics included immunohistochemistry for phosphatase and tensin homolog, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AKT, phosphorylated AKT, S6K1, and phosphorylated S6K1; exploratory gene expression analysis; and [18F]fludeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography.

RESULTS

Twenty‐three patients with advanced solid tumors were treated. Fifteen patients had prior taxane therapy. Twenty‐two patients were evaluable for responses. One patient had a complete response, and 5 patients had a partial response (3 confirmed). DLTs were seen in 1 patient each at 10 (grade 3 dyspnea/hypoxia) and 40 mg (grade 4 leukopenia/neutropenia) and in 2 patients at 60 mg (grade 3 fatigue and grade 4 pericardial effusion). Patients with higher expression of posttreatment AKT and a greater decline in FDG activity were more likely to have a treatment response or stable disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Sirolimus showed an acceptable safety profile at a weekly dose of 40 mg with weekly intravenous nab‐paclitaxel at 100 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days. The posttreatment AKT score and changes in FDG activity may have roles as early predictors of responses to mTOR inhibitors. Cancer 2015;121:1817–1826. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Statin use and risk of pancreatic cancer: Results from a large, clinic‐based case‐control study
Authors: Walker Evan J. , Ko Andrew H. , Holly Elizabeth A. , Bracci Paige M.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Statins are cholesterol‐lowering medications with pleiotropic effects, including alterations in growth signaling, as well as immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory effects that may alter cancer risk. Evidence from previous epidemiologic studies is inconsistent about whether statin use is associated with a reduced risk of pancreatic cancer (PC).

METHODS

Patients with confirmed diagnoses of PC (cases) were recruited from medical and surgical oncology clinics, with controls (frequency‐matched by sex and age) recruited from general medicine clinics, at a high‐volume academic medical center over a 6‐year period (2006‐2011). Direct interviews were conducted with an epidemiological risk factor questionnaire covering topics such as medical history, lifestyle factors, and medication usage. Adjusted multivariable logistic regression was used to compute odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as estimates of the relative risk of PC.

RESULTS

Data were obtained from 536 cases and 869 controls. Ever use of statins was associated with a 34% reduced PC risk (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.47‐0.92). In sex‐stratified analyses, risk was statistically significantly reduced in men only (OR for men, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.32‐0.79; OR for women, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.52‐1.43). Duration of use was inversely associated with PC risk (>10‐year use: overall OR, 0.51; OR for men, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.21‐0.80; Ptrend = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest case‐control study to demonstrate an inverse association between statin use and PC risk. Risk reduction in statin users appears to be sex‐specific and is more pronounced in long‐term users. Further research is warranted to better characterize this association and clarify the roles of underlying biologic mechanisms. Cancer 2015;121:1287–1294. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Predictors of colorectal cancer surveillance among survivors of childhood cancer treated with radiation: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Daniel Casey L. , Kohler Connie L. , Stratton Kayla L. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Waterbor John W. , Whelan Kimberly F. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Henderson Tara O. , Krull Kevin R. , Robison Leslie L. , Nathan Paul C.
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors treated with radiotherapy to a field including the colon or rectum have an elevated risk of developing radiation‐induced colorectal cancer (CRC). The Children's Oncology Group recommends colonoscopy every 5 years beginning at age 35 years for at‐risk survivors.

METHODS

Analyses included 702 five‐year survivors (Childhood Cancer Survivor Study) aged ≥36 years who received ≥30 gray of abdominal, pelvic, or spinal radiotherapy. Multivariate generalized linear models were used to calculate relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for adherence to the Children's Oncology Group's CRC surveillance recommendations.

RESULTS

With a median age of 43 years (range, 36‐58 years), 29.5% of the survivors (207 of 702 survivors) met surveillance recommendations. In multivariate analyses, age ≥50 years versus age 36 to 49 years (RR, 2.6; 95% CI, 2.0‐3.4), reporting a routine cancer follow‐up visit within 1 year before the study (RR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0‐2.2), reporting ≥10 physician visits within the past year versus 0 to 9 visits (RR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.7), and discussing future cancer risk with a physician at the time of the most recent follow‐up visit (RR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.7) were found to be associated with adherence to CRC surveillance recommendations.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater than 70% of survivors at an increased risk of CRC were not screened as recommended. Regular physician contact and discussion of screening were associated with a 60% increase in CRC surveillance. Educational interventions targeted at survivors and their primary care physicians are needed to heighten knowledge of CRC risk after radiotherapy and the importance of appropriate surveillance. Cancer 2015;121:1856–1863. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Electrochemistry for Biofuel Generation: Transformation of Fatty Acids and Triglycerides to Diesel‐Like Olefin/Ether Mixtures and Olefins
Authors: R. dos Santos Tatiane , Harnisch Falk , Nilges Peter , Schröder Uwe
Published: February 2015

Electroorganic synthesis can be exploited for the production of biofuels from fatty acids and triglycerides. With Coulomb efficiencies (CE) of up to 50 %, the electrochemical decarboxylation of fatty acids in methanolic and ethanolic solutions leads to the formation of diesel‐like olefin/ether mixtures. Triglycerides can be directly converted in aqueous solutions by using sonoelectrochemistry, with olefins as the main products (with a CE of more than 20 %). The latter reaction, however, is terminated at around 50 % substrate conversion by the produced side‐product glycerol. An energy analysis shows that the electrochemical olefin synthesis can be an energetically competitive, sustainable, and—in comparison with established processes—economically feasible alternative for the exploitation of fats and oils for biofuel production.
Theoretical study and performance evaluation of macro‐assisted data‐only carrier for next generation 5G system
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Zhang Xing , Liu Chang , Wang Wenbo , Chen Yami , Li Gang , Pan Zhengang , I Chih‐Lin
Published: February 2015

With the explosive growth of high‐data rate multimedia services and machine‐to‐machine (M2M) type communications, numerous small cells will be densely deployed in future fifth generation wireless network, resulting in serious interference, intolerable delay, and huge handover failure. Massive access M2M services, with low‐rate high‐frequency requests, will also generate much signaling overhead costs and cause enormous waste of system resources. In the Third Generation Partnership Project, the split of control and user (C/U) planes is perceived as one of the most promising methods for small cell enhancement to address these challenges. In this article, a new C/U split architecture of data‐only carrier (DoC) system is analyzed comprehensively from various aspects, such as overhead costs, coverage probability, spectral efficiency, and energy efficiency for the first time. Based on the model of stochastic geometry, the influences of density and power of small cell and cell range expansion factors are all taken into account to compare the DoC architecture with the baseline long‐term evolution (LTE) system. Numerical results show that the DoC system can greatly reduce the overhead costs and help to achieve higher throughput gain and better coverage performance over the conventional LTE system. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visual development in primates: Neural mechanisms and critical periods
Authors: Kiorpes Lynne
Published: February 2015

Despite many decades of research into the development of visual cortex, it remains unclear what neural processes set limitations on the development of visual function and define its vulnerability to abnormal visual experience. This selected review examines the development of visual function and its neural correlates, and highlights the fact that in most cases receptive field properties of infant neurons are substantially more mature than infant visual function. One exception is temporal resolution, which can be accounted for by resolution of neurons at the level of the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN). In terms of spatial vision, properties of single neurons alone are not sufficient to account for visual development. Different visual functions develop over different time courses. Their onset may be limited by the existence of neural response properties that support a given perceptual ability, but the subsequent time course of maturation to adult levels remains unexplained. Several examples are offered suggesting that taking account of weak signaling by infant neurons, correlated firing, and pooled responses of populations of neurons brings us closer to an understanding of the relationship between neural and behavioral development. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 1080–1090, 2015
No evidence that within‐group male relatedness reduces harm to females in Drosophila
Authors: Hollis Brian , Kawecki Tadeusz J. , Keller Laurent
Published: January 2015

Conflict between males and females over whether, when, and how often to mate often leads to the evolution of sexually antagonistic interactions that reduce female reproductive success. Because the offspring of relatives contribute to inclusive fitness, high relatedness between rival males might be expected to reduce competition and result in the evolution of reduced harm to females. A recent study investigated this possibility in Drosophila melanogaster and concluded that groups of brothers cause less harm to females than groups of unrelated males, attributing the effect to kin selection. That study did not control for the rearing environment of males, rendering the results impossible to interpret in the context of kin selection. Here, we conducted a similar experiment while manipulating whether males developed with kin prior to being placed with females. We found no difference between related and unrelated males in the harm caused to females when males were reared separately. In contrast, when related males developed and emerged together before the experiment, female reproductive output was higher. Our results show that relatedness among males is insufficient to reduce harm to females, while a shared rearing environment – resulting in males similar to or familiar with one another – is necessary to generate this pattern.
Splenic extrafollicular reactions and BM plasma cells sustain IgM response associated with hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Khoo Lawrence Han Boon , Thiam Chung Hwee , Soh Serena Ying , Angeli Véronique
Published: January 2015

Hypercholesterolemia associated with atherosclerotic disease is known to be associated with increased total and oxidized (ox) low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐specific IgM antibodies in circulation. However, the B‐cell responses accounting for this increase remain to be elucidated. Here, we observed an association between total IgM and oxLDL‐specific IgM autoantibodies with cholesterol in the plasma of hypercholesterolemic apolipoprotein E deficient (apoE−/−) mice. Our findings also indicated that oxLDL‐specific IgM autoantibodies production was restricted to the spleen, but not the lymph nodes. Further examination of the spleen revealed that the extrafollicular responses, but not germinal center reactions, were the dominant antibody‐producing pathway. A quiescent population of IgM+ plasma cells including oxLDL‐specific IgM antibody secreting cells in BM also sustained the elevated IgM antibodies response in circulation. We determined that IgM+ plasma cells in the BM were, at least in part, splenic derived by depleting CD11c+ DCs and plasmablasts to disrupt the humoral responses. In addition, lowering hypercholesterolemia reduced IgM response by interfering with extrafollicular and BM responses. By elucidating the mechanism underlying the elevated IgM response observed in hypercholesterolemia, this study provides insight into novel immunotherapeutic avenues.
Memory CD8+ T cells colocalize with IL‐7+ stromal cells in bone marrow and rest in terms of proliferation and transcription
Authors: Sercan Alp Özen , Durlanik Sibel , Schulz Daniel , McGrath Mairi , Grün Joachim R. , Bardua Marcus , Ikuta Koichi , Sgouroudis Evridiki , Riedel René , Zehentmeier Sandra , Hauser Anja E. , Tsuneto Motokazu , Melchers Fritz , Tokoyoda Koji , Chang Hyun‐Dong , Thiel Andreas , Radbruch Andreas
Published: January 2015

It is believed that memory CD8+ T cells are maintained in secondary lymphoid tissues, peripheral tissues, and BM by homeostatic proliferation. Their survival has been shown to be dependent on IL‐7, but it is unclear where they acquire it. Here we show that in murine BM, memory CD8+ T cells individually colocalize with IL‐7+ reticular stromal cells. The T cells are resting in terms of global transcription and do not express markers of activation, for example, 4‐1BB (CD137), IL‐2, or IFN‐γ, despite the expression of CD69 on about 30% of the cells. Ninety‐five percent of the memory CD8+ T cells in BM are in G0 phase of cell cycle and do not express Ki‐67. Less than 1% is in S/M/G2 of cell cycle, according to propidium iodide staining. While previous publications have estimated the extent of proliferation of CD8+ memory T cells on the basis of BrdU incorporation, we show here that BrdU itself induces proliferation of CD8+ memory T cells. Taken together, the present results suggest that CD8+ memory T cells are maintained as resting cells in the BM in dedicated niches with their survival conditional on IL‐7 receptor signaling.
Toll‐like receptor 9 and interferon‐γ receptor signaling suppress the B‐cell fate of uncommitted progenitors in mice
Authors: Baratono Sheena R. , Chu Niansheng , Richman Lee P. , Behrens Edward M.
Published: January 2015

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome describes a heterogeneous group of cytokine storm disorders, with different immunogens and cytokines leading to variations in organ pathology. The severe inflammation generated by the cytokine storm results in widespread organ pathology including alterations in T‐ and B‐lymphocyte counts. This study explores the roles of TLR9 and IFN‐γR stimulation in decreasing T‐ and B‐cell lymphopoiesis in a mouse model of hyperinflammation. We demonstrate that early B‐cell lymphopoiesis is severely compromised during TLR9‐ and IFN‐γ‐driven hyperinflammation from the Ly‐6D+ common lymphoid progenitor stage onwards with different effects inhibiting development at multiple stages. We show that TLR9 signaling directly decreases in vitro B‐cell yields while increasing T‐cell yields. IFN‐γ also directly inhibits B‐cell and T‐cell differentiation in vitro as well as when induced by TLR9 in vivo. Microarray and RT‐PCR analysis of Ly‐6D− common lymphoid progenitors point to HOXa9 and EBF‐1 as transcription factors altered by TLR9‐induced inflammation. Our work demonstrates both cellular and molecular targets that lead to diminished B‐cell lymphopoiesis in sustained TLR9‐ and IFN‐γ‐driven inflammation that may be relevant in a number of infectious and autoimmune/inflammatory settings.
Rehabilitation or the death penalty: Autoimmune B cells in the dock
Authors: Dahal Lekh N. , Cragg Mark S.
Published: January 2015

CD20‐based monoclonal antibodies have become established as treatments for lymphoma, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis and dermatomyositis, with the principle therapeutic mechanism relating to B‐cell depletion through effector cell engagement. An article by Brühl et al. in this issue of the European Journal of Immunology [Eur. J. Immunol. 2015. 45: 705–715] reveals a fundamentally distinct mechanism of silencing autoimmune B‐cell responses. Rather than B‐cell depletion, the authors use anti‐CD79b antibodies to induce B‐cell tolerance and suppress humoral immune responses against collagen to prevent the development of arthritis in mice. Here we highlight the differences in the mechanisms used by anti‐CD20 and anti‐CD79b Ab therapy and discuss why depletion of B cells may not be required to treat autoimmune arthritis and other B‐cell‐associated pathologies.
Synthesis, Structure and Magnetic Properties of a 3D Manganese(II) Framework Featuring a Heptanodal Topology and Tube‐in‐Tube Dihelical Chains
Authors: Chen Zilu , Quan Lixia , Liu Long , Wang Yifei , Zou Huahong , Liang Fupei
Published: February 2015

The interaction of MnII ions with acetate in a chemical environment provided by a decomposition reaction of the Schiff base 2‐(1‐hydroxy‐2‐methylpropan‐2‐ylimino)‐1,2‐di‐phenylethanone gave a 3D MnII framework [Mn5(μ3‐OH)2(CH3COO)8]·2CH3CH2OH (1). This was characterized by infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis and powder X‐ray diffraction patterns, and structurally determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The title compound features two kinds of unprecedented tube‐in‐tube dihelical MnII chains with opposite chiralities. They are alternatively arranged and bridged by MnII ions linked by acetate ions to form a 3D framework with a rare heptanodal topology. Magnetic studies revealed that compound 1 shows spin‐canted and metamagnetic behavior. This work affords a synthetic strategy incorporating the decomposition reaction of a Schiff base which provides the chemical environment for another reaction and to direct the formation of the title compound and its crystals.
Supplementation of increasing amounts of linoleic acid to Leymus chinensis decreases methane production and improves fatty acid composition in vitro
Authors: Wu Duanqin , Xu Liwei. , Tang Shaoxun , He Zhixiong. , Tan Zhiliang. , Han Xuefeng , Zhou Chuanshe , Kang Jinhe , Wang Min
Published: February 2015

The effects of linoleic acid (LA) supplementation on in vitro dry matter disappearance (DMD), gas production, methane and hydrogen gas production, ruminal fermentation characteristics, and fatty acid (FA) profiles in fermentation fluid were investigated in vitro. Rumen fluid was collected from four ruminally cannulated goats, diluted with incubation buffer, and then incubated with 500 mg Leymus chinensis meal supplemented with different amounts of LA (0, 20, 40, and 60 mg for the control, LA20, LA40, and LA60 groups, respectively). In vitro rumen incubation was anaerobically carried out in 130‐mL sealed fermentation bottles at 39°C for 48 h, and samples were collected at three time points (12, 24, and 48 h) for analysis. Supplementation of LA reduced DMD (P<0.05), the cumulative gas production, theoretical maximal gas production and methane production (P<0.05), whilst increased the hydrogen gas production. In addition, LA addition to substrate had no negative effects on ruminal fermentation parameters (pH, NH3, and VFA). The concentration of total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) were higher for LA groups than for control during the whole incubation process. These results indicate that LA supplementation in substrate reduces gas and methane production, and increases the amounts of some beneficial fatty acids in fermentation liquid in vitro.

Practical applications: Achieving reduction of the production of methane and improving the composition of fatty acids in ruminant products.

Information about H2 concentrations in the rumen of ruminents is scarce. This study investigated the effects of increasing amounts of linoleic acid on CH4 and H2 production when Leymus chinensis was fermented as a substrate in vitro. Supplementing different doses of LA to Leymus chinensis decreased the GP and suppressed CH4 emissions in vitro.
Synthesis of 3‐Arylisocoumarins by Using Acyl Anion Chemistry and Synthesis of Thunberginol A and Cajanolactone A
Authors: Sudarshan Kasireddy , Manna Manash Kumar , Aidhen Indrapal Singh
Published: February 2015

A new strategy for the synthesis of 3‐arylisocoumarins and 8‐hydroxy‐3‐arylisocoumarins was investigated by using acyl anion chemistry for the initial C–C bond formation. The obtained keto esters and keto lactones as intermediates underwent based‐promoted intramolecular cyclization to afford 3‐arylisocoumarins in good yields. The developed methodology was applied for the synthesis of the important natural products thunberginol A and cajanolactone A.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Imides from Aldehydes or Alcohols and Amine Hydrochloride Salts
Authors: Yu Hui , Zhang Yonghao
Published: February 2015

An efficient approach to imides has been developed. With tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as the oxidant, CuBr (20 mol‐%) as the catalyst, and PhI(OAc)2 (50 mol‐%) as the additive, aldehydes or alcohols reacted with amine hydrochloride salts to provide imides in moderate to good yields. A possible reaction pathway for the formation of the products is also discussed in this paper.
Copper‐Catalyzed Innate Ethoxycarbon­yldifluoromethylation of Electron‐Rich ­Arenes
Authors: Belhomme Marie‐Charlotte , Bayle Alexandre , Poisson Thomas , Pannecoucke Xavier
Published: February 2015

We report the direct introduction of the CF2CO2Et moiety into electron‐rich arenes. The copper‐catalyzed process uses commercially available and inexpensive BrCF2CO2Et as a fluorinated building block. This radical‐free reaction proceeds smoothly to give the desired difluoromethylated arenes in modest to good yields with a Friedel–Crafts‐type regioselectivity. The direct introduction of α,α‐difluoromethylated amides was also investigated, and this gave the corresponding difluoromethylated arenes, albeit in moderate yields. This method represents the first transition‐metal‐catalyzed direct introduction of a functionalized fluorinated moiety into electron‐rich arenes.
Rational Design of Latent Fluorophores from Water‐Soluble Hydroxyphenyltriazine Dyes Suitable for Lipase Sensing
Authors: Jacquemet Alicia , Rihn Sandra , Ulrich Gilles , Renard Pierre‐Yves , Romieu Anthony , Ziessel Raymond
Published: February 2015

Derivatives of 2‐(2′‐hydroxy‐5′‐dimethylaminobenzyl)‐4,6‐dimethylamino‐1,3,5‐triazine were synthesized by an original multistep protocol that afforded, after quaternization of the N,N‐dimethylaminobenzyl moiety, water‐soluble fluorescent dyes. These fluorophores exhibited excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer and large Stokes shifts (ΔSS > 10000 cm–1). The phenol residue was masked by an enzyme‐labile protecting group based on self‐immolative para‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol. Lipases were used to unveil the fluorescence under physiological conditions (phosphate‐buffered saline, pH 7.2) without aggregation or precipitation of the fluorescent dyes.
Simple micellar electrokinetic chromatography method for the determination of hydrogen sulfide in hen tissues
Authors: Kubalczyk Paweł , Borowczyk Kamila , Chwatko Grażyna , Głowacki Rafał
Published: January 2015

A new method for the determination of hydrogen sulfide in hen tissues has been developed and validated. For estimation of hydrogen sulfide content, a sample (0.1 g) of hen tissue was treated according to the procedure consisted of some essential steps: simultaneous homogenization of a tissue and derivatization of hydrogen sulfide to its S‐quinolinium derivative with 2‐chloro‐1‐methylquinolinium tetrafluoroborate, separation of so‐formed derivative by micellar electrokinetic chromatography with sweeping, and detection and quantitation with the use of UV detector set to measure analytical signals at 375 nm. Effective electrophoretic separation was achieved using fused silica capillary (effective length 41.5 cm, 75 μm id) and 0.05 mol/L, pH 8 phosphate buffer with the addition of 0.04 mol/L SDS and 26% ACN. The lower limit of quantification was 0.12 μmol hydrogen sulfide in 1 g of tissue. The calibration curve prepared in tissue homogenate for hydrogen sulfide showed linearity in the range from 0.15 to 2.0 μmol/g, with the coefficient of correlation 0.9978. The relative standard deviation of the points of the calibration curve varied from 8.3 to 3.2% RSD.
Application of PAN‐NaY Composite for CS+ and SR2+ Adsorption: Kinetic and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Faghihian Hossein , Iravani Mozhgan , Moayed Mohammad
Published: January 2015

In this research, a new composite adsorbent consisting of zeolite Y and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) was synthesized. The composite was characterized by XRD, XRF, FTIR, DTG, and SEM analysis. The adsorption behavior of the composite toward Cs+ and Sr2+ was investigated. The effect of pH, initial ion concentration, contact time, and temperature on sorption process was examined. The maximum adsorption capacity of the composite was 219.8 and 70.23 mg g−1 for Cs+ and Sr2+, respectively. The kinetic of the process followed pseudo‐second‐order model. The equilibrium data were analyzed by the Langmuir, Freundlich, and D‐R isotherm models. The mean free energy of the sorption (E) for both ions was in the range of 8–16 kJ mol−1, confirming an ion exchange mechanism had been carried out. Positive ΔH° and negative ΔG° were indicative of the endothermic and spontaneous nature adsorption. Obtained results revealed the PAN‐NaY composite was a desirable ion exchanger for Cs+ and Sr2+ removal. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 999–1008, 2015
Shaking table test and numerical simulation of a 1/2‐scale self‐centering reinforced concrete frame
Authors: Lu Xilin , Cui Ye , Liu Jingjing , Gao Wenjun
Published: February 2015

Self‐centering reinforced concrete frames are developed as an alternative of traditional seismic force‐resisting systems with better seismic performance and re‐centering capability. This paper presents an experimental and computational study on the seismic performance of self‐centering reinforced concrete frames. A 1/2‐scale model of a two‐story self‐centering reinforced concrete frame model was designed and tested on the shaking table in State Key Laboratory of Disaster Reduction in Civil Engineering at Tongji University to evaluate the seismic behavior of the structure. A structural analysis model, including detailed modeling of beam–column joints, column–base joints, and prestressed tendons, was constructed in the nonlinear dynamic modeling software OpenSEES. Agreements between test results and numerical solutions indicate that the designed reinforced concrete frame has satisfactory seismic performance and self‐centering capacity subjected to earthquakes; the self‐centering structures can undergo large rocking with minor residual displacement after the earthquake excitations; the proposed analysis procedure can be applied in simulating the seismic performance of self‐centering reinforced concrete frames. To achieve a more comprehensive evaluation on the performance of self‐centering structures, research on energy dissipation devices in the system is expected. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental study on the burning behaviour of Pinus halepensis needles using small‐scale fire calorimetry of live, aged and dead samples
Authors: Jervis Freddy X. , Rein Guillermo
Published: February 2015

Limited research has been conducted on the burning characteristics of live fuels, which are commonly assumed to behave like moist dead fuels. We use small‐scale laboratory calorimetric experiments to investigate the differences in fire dynamics between live and dead Pinus halepensis needles. The study includes laboratory‐aged samples and different moisture conditions (fresh or oven dry). A series of ten fire behaviour parameters are extracted from the measurements to identify and quantify differences. The main parameters are the following: time to ignition; flaming time; mass loss pre‐ignition, during flaming, and during smouldering; peak power; effective heat of combustion; mean and peak CO/CO2; and radiative fraction. Using these parameters, we show that the most flammable samples are fresh dead and aged needles, followed by dry dead and dry live needles. The least flammable is fresh live needles. Live needles ignite about four times slower, and burn with ~60% lower power and ~50% lower heat of combustion than dead needles. Aged needles resemble most closely the behaviour of dead needles, but many fire behaviour parameters were significantly different. The results confirm the importance of moisture content in the burning behaviour of pine needles, but the differences between live and dead samples cannot be explained solely in terms of moisture but require consideration of plant chemistry and sample drying. © 2015 The Authors. Fire and Materials published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Activated microglia impairs neuroglial interaction by opening Cx43 hemichannels in hippocampal astrocytes
Authors: Abudara Verónica , Roux Lisa , Dallérac Glenn , Matias Isabelle , Dulong Jérôme , Mothet Jean Pierre , Rouach Nathalie , Giaume Christian
Published: January 2015

Glia plays an active role in neuronal functions and dysfunctions, some of which depend on the expression of astrocyte connexins, the gap junction channel and hemichannel proteins. Under neuroinflammation triggered by the endotoxin lipopolysacharide (LPS), microglia is primary stimulated and releases proinflammatory agents affecting astrocytes and neurons. Here, we investigate the effects of such microglial activation on astrocyte connexin‐based channel functions and their consequences on synaptic activity in an ex vivo model. We found that LPS induces astroglial hemichannel opening in acute hippocampal slices while no change is observed in gap junctional communication. Based on pharmacological and genetic approaches we found that the LPS‐induced hemichannel opening is mainly due to Cx43 hemichannel activity. This process primarily requires a microglial stimulation resulting in the release of at least two proinflammatory cytokines, IL‐1β and TNF‐α. Consequences of the hemichannel‐mediated increase in membrane permeability are a calcium rise in astrocytes and an enhanced glutamate release associated to a reduction in excitatory synaptic activity of pyramidal neurons in response to Schaffer's collateral stimulation. As a whole our findings point out astroglial hemichannels as key determinants of the impairment of synaptic transmission during neuroinflammation. GLIA 2015;63:795–811
Tenofovir‐associated Fanconi syndrome and nephrotic syndrome in a patient with chronic hepatitis B monoinfection
Authors: Hwang Hyeon Seok , Park Cheol Whee , Song Myeong Jun
Published: January 2015

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) is widely used as an effective first‐line therapy for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection. While TDF demonstrates successful viral suppression, it has been linked to the development of renal proximal tubular (PT) dysfunction, leading to Fanconi syndrome. However, Fanconi syndrome has been rarely reported in CHB‐monoinfected patients, and there were no reports of TDF‐associated nephrotic syndrome. Here, we report a case of combined Fanconi and nephrotic syndrome in CHB patients after TDF exposure. (Hepatology 2015;62:1318‐1320)
Increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis B patients with transient elastography–defined subclinical cirrhosis
Authors: Kim Mi Na , Kim Seung Up , Kim Beom Kyung , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Song Ki Jun , Park Young Nyun , Han Kwang‐Hyub
Published: January 2015

Early detection of liver cirrhosis in its subclinical stage is of paramount importance to identify high‐risk individuals for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study investigated whether transient elastography (TE) can identify patients with subclinical cirrhosis (SCC) who are at increased risk of developing HCC among chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients without clinical evidence of cirrhosis. A total of 2,876 CHB patients without clinical cirrhosis who received TE examinations between April 2006 and December 2012 were enrolled in this prospective study. SCC was defined as a nonclinical cirrhosis, but with a liver stiffness (LS) value ≥13 kilopascals (kPa). Mean age of the study population was 46.1 years, and male gender was predominant (n = 1,775; 61.7%). Mean LS value was 7.9 kPa, and SCC was identified in 285 (9.9%) patients. During the median follow‐up period of 48.9 months (range, 6.6‐96.2), HCC developed in 16 patients (13.3 per 1,000 person‐years) in the SCC group and 36 (3.4 per 1,000 person‐years) in the non‐SCC group. Cumulative incidence rate of HCC in the SCC group was significantly higher than that in the non‐SCC group (P < 0.001, log‐rank test). On multivariate analysis, SCC was independently associated with a risk of developing HCC, regardless of antiviral therapy (without antiviral therapy: hazard ratio [HR]: 4.680; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.187‐18.441; P = 0.027; with antiviral therapy: HR, 3.344; 95% CI: 1.526‐7.328; P = 0.003). Conclusion: TE can identify CHB patients with SCC who are at increased risk of developing HCC, even when cirrhosis is not clinically apparent. (Hepatology 2015;61:1851‐1859)
Modeling HLA associations with EBV‐positive and ‐negative Hodgkin lymphoma suggests distinct mechanisms in disease pathogenesis
Authors: Johnson Paul C.D. , McAulay Karen A. , Montgomery Dorothy , Lake Annette , Shield Lesley , Gallagher Alice , Little Ann‐Margaret , Shah Anila , Marsh Steven G.E. , Taylor G. Malcolm , Jarrett Ruth F.
Published: February 2015

HLA genotyping and genome wide association studies provide strong evidence for associations between Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) alleles and classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). Analysis of these associations is complicated by the extensive linkage disequilibrium within the major histocompatibility region and recent data suggesting that associations with EBV‐positive and EBV‐negative cHL are largely distinct. To distinguish independent and therefore potentially causal associations from associations confounded by linkage disequilibrium, we applied a variable selection regression modeling procedure to directly typed HLA class I and II genes and selected SNPs from EBV‐stratified patient subgroups. In final models, HLA‐A*01:01 and B*37:01 were associated with an increased risk of EBV‐positive cHL whereas DRB1*15:01 and DPB1*01:01 were associated with decreased risk. Effects were independent of a prior history of infectious mononucleosis. For EBV‐negative cHL the class II SNP rs6903608 remained the strongest predictor of disease risk after adjusting for the effects of common HLA alleles. Associations with “all cHL” and differences by case EBV status reflected the subgroup analysis. In conclusion, this study extends previous findings by identifying novel HLA associations with EBV‐stratified subgroups of cHL, highlighting those alleles likely to be biologically relevant and strengthening evidence implicating genetic variation associated with the SNP rs6903608.
Cardiovascular disease in Adult Life after Childhood Cancer in Scandinavia: A population‐based cohort study of 32,308 one‐year survivors
Authors: Gudmundsdottir Thorgerdur , F. Winther Jeanette , de Fine Licht Sofie , G. Bonnesen Trine , H. Asdahl Peter , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Anderson Harald , Wesenberg Finn , Malila Nea , Hasle Henrik , H. Olsen Jørgen ,   on behalf of the ALiCCS study group
Published: February 2015

The lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease in a large cohort of childhood cancer survivors has not been fully assessed. In a retrospective population‐based cohort study predicated on comprehensive national health registers, we identified a cohort of 32,308 one‐year survivors of cancer diagnosed before the age of 20 in the five Nordic countries between the start of cancer registration in the 1940s and 1950s to 2008; 211,489 population comparison subjects were selected from national population registers. Study subjects were linked to national hospital registers, and the observed numbers of first hospital admission for cardiovascular disease among survivors were compared with the expected numbers derived from the population comparison cohort. Cardiovascular disease was diagnosed in 2,632 childhood cancer survivors (8.1%), yielding a standardized hospitalization rate ratio (RR) of 2.1 (95% CI 2.0–2.2) and an overall absolute excess risk (AER) of 324 per 100,000 person‐years. At the end of follow‐up 12% of the survivors were ≥ 50 years of age and 4.5% ≥ 60 years of age. Risk estimates were significantly increased throughout life, with an AER of ∼500–600 per 100,000 person‐years at age ≥ 40. The highest relative risks were seen for heart failure (RR, 5.2; 95% CI 4.5–5.9), valvular dysfunction (4.6; 3.8–5.5) and cerebrovascular diseases (3.7; 3.4–4.1). Survivors of hepatic tumor, Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia had the highest overall risks for cardiovascular disease, although each main type of childhood cancer had increased risk with different risk profiles. Nordic childhood cancer survivors are at markedly increased risk for cardiovascular disorders throughout life. These findings indicate the need for preventive interventions and continuous follow‐up for this rapidly growing population.
Reading on the Internet
Authors: Cho Byeong‐Young , Afflerbach Peter
Published: January 2015

Successful Internet reading requires making strategic decisions about what texts to read and a sequence for reading them, all in accordance with readers’ goals. In this paper, we describe the process of realizing and constructing potential texts as an important and critical part of successful Internet reading and use verbal report data to examine such strategic actions by readers in the complex environments of the Internet. We focus on Amalie (pseudonym), a participant in a study of adolescents’ Internet reading strategy use. Amalie's verbal reports describe representative cognitive and metacognitive processes that strategic high‐school readers use as they negotiate the Internet to locate, choose, and use multiple sources. We conclude with a consideration of classroom implications in the era of Common Core State Standards for helping students become accomplished Internet readers.