bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding GIC in the UK and French high‐voltage transmission systems during severe magnetic storms
Authors: Kelly G. S. , Viljanen A. , Beggan C. D. , Thomson A. W. P.
Published: September 2016

The measurement and collection of digital magnetic field data in Europe extends back to the 1970s, providing over 30 years of data for the analysis of severe space weather. Although paper records can potentially extend these data sets back by over a century, few digitized records are currently available for use in extreme studies. Therefore, we rely on theoretical arguments and modeling to elucidate the largest likely variations of the magnetic field. We assess the relationship, during the three largest storms in the digital era, between variations in the horizontal magnetic field and the largest measured Dst index to estimate likely magnetic variations for more extreme storms in northern and midlatitude Europe. We examine how geomagnetically induced currents (GIC) flow in the UK and French networks during recent severe storms and analyze the sensitivity of these flows to changes in grid parameters. The maximum GIC computed at any one node in the French and UK grids are 44 A and 208 A, respectively. Sensitivity tests show that while gross changes of the whole network structure, such as disconnecting parts of the network, reduces the mean GIC per node, changes in GIC at individual nodes have distinct behaviors implying that local effects are network dependent and require detailed modeling to sufficiently characterize GIC. In addition, the scale factors we have derived allow GIC results from recent storms to be upscaled to estimate the potential risk to the system from more extreme events, such as the Carrington storm in 1859.
Reply to comment by Foufoula‐Georgiou et al. on “Climate and agricultural land use change impacts on streamflow in the upper midwestern United States”
Authors: Gupta Satish C. , Kessler Andrew C. , Brown Melinda K. , Schuh William M.
Published: September 2016

This reply addresses concerns raised by Foufoula‐Georgiou et al. (2016) on Gupta et al. (2015) through additional regression analysis of streamflow and base flow and with description of the water quality conditions in the Minnesota River prior to European settlements in 1850s.
Yosemite Hydroclimate Network: Distributed stream and atmospheric data for the Tuolumne River watershed and surroundings
Authors: Lundquist Jessica D. , Roche James W. , Forrester Harrison , Moore Courtney , Keenan Eric , Perry Gwyneth , Cristea Nicoleta , Henn Brian , Lapo Karl , McGurk Bruce , Cayan Daniel R. , Dettinger Michael D.
Published: September 2016

Regions of complex topography and remote wilderness terrain have spatially varying patterns of temperature and streamflow, but due to inherent difficulties of access, are often very poorly sampled. Here we present a data set of distributed stream stage, streamflow, stream temperature, barometric pressure, and air temperature from the Tuolumne River Watershed in Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada, California, USA, for water years 2002–2015, as well as a quality‐controlled hourly meteorological forcing time series for use in hydrologic modeling. We also provide snow data and daily inflow to the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir for 1970–2015. This paper describes data collected using low‐visibility and low‐impact installations for wilderness locations and can be used alone or as a critical supplement to ancillary data sets collected by cooperating agencies, referenced herein. This data set provides a unique opportunity to understand spatial patterns and scaling of hydroclimatic processes in complex terrain and can be used to evaluate downscaling techniques or distributed modeling. The paper also provides an example methodology and lessons learned in conducting hydroclimatic monitoring in remote wilderness.
Continuing Professional Education for Teachers and University and College Faculty
Authors: Cranton Patricia
Published: September 2016

In this chapter, the author explores a variety of aspects of continuing professional education for teachers and university and college faculty members. She discusses the kinds of knowledge that are addressed and the role of online learning in continuing professional education.
Navigating Professional White Water: Rethinking Continuing Professional Education at Work
Authors: Bierema Laura L.
Published: September 2016

This chapter critiques the current state of CPE and offers and alternative conceptualization of how CPE might be designed and delivered.
Topo‐Chemical Tailoring of Tellurium Quantum Dot Precipitation from Supercooled Polyphosphates for Broadband Optical Amplification
Authors: Tan Linling , Kang Shiliang , Pan Zhiwen , Zhang Yanfei , Yue Yuanzheng , Xu Shanhui , Peng Mingying , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: September 2016

The generation of optically active precipitates and quantum dots in glasses suitable for fiber application is a challenging task, in particular, for glasses which exhibit superbroad near‐infrared (NIR) photoemission. The latter can be achieved through dopants of heavy metal and post‐transition elements, but their stabilization in the desired chemical state requires unconventional approaches of synthesis. Here, atomic clusters of tellurium and metallic tellurium quantum dots in polyphosphate matrices are considered. Starting from the understanding of glass structure where the length and the degree of crosslinking of phosphate chains can be adjusted through composition, generation and stabilization of tellurium precipitates with ultra‐broadband infrared photoluminescence are demonstrated. Increased network crosslinking and, hence, increased molecular rigidity of the host enables finely distributed precipitates of optically active tellurium species. This demonstrates a generalist approach as to how the precipitation of metallic nanostructures can be tailored through network topology. In the present situation, the size of metallic tellurium inclusions can be limited to sub‐nanometric scale, enabling a luminescence bandwidth of about 260 nm across the telecommunication bands, and an emission lifetime of several tens of μs. In a demonstration experiment, it is shown that this strategy of structural control can be transferred to application in optical fiber.
Toward a Culturally Responsive Model of Mental Health Literacy: Facilitating Help‐Seeking Among East Asian Immigrants to North America
Authors: Na Sumin , Ryder Andrew G. , Kirmayer Laurence J.
Published: September 2016

Studies have consistently found that East Asian immigrants in North America are less likely to use mental health services even when they experience levels of distress comparable to Euro‐Americans. Although cultural factors that may prevent East Asian immigrants from seeking mental health care have been identified, few studies have explored ways to foster appropriate help‐seeking and use of mental health services. Recent work on mental health literacy provides a potential framework for strategies to increase appropriate help‐seeking and use of services. This paper reviews the literature on help‐seeking for mental health problems among East Asian immigrants living in Western countries to critically assess the relevance of the mental health literacy approach as a framework for interventions to improve appropriate use of services. Modifications needed to develop a culturally responsive framework for mental health literacy are identified.
A chronic rhinosinusitis–derived isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa induces acute and pervasive effects on the murine upper airway microbiome and host immune response
Authors: Cope Emily K. , Goldberg Andrew N. , Pletcher Steven D. , Lynch Susan V.
Published: September 2016

Background

Diverse microbial communities colonize healthy sinus mucosa and specific species within these communities are capable of protecting the host from pathogenic infection. However, little is known of the dynamics of upper airway infection and the role of the sinus mucosal microbiome in short‐ and longer‐term outcomes using clinical isolates from patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

Methods

We examine microbiome and immune dynamics after murine sinus infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa EC1, isolated previously from a chronic rhinosinusitis patient. Microbiota profiling (16S rRNA sequencing), histologic, and immunologic analyses [interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and eotaxin‐1 (CCL11) gene expression] were performed at 1, 7, and 10 days postinfection (D1PI, D7PI, and D10PI) in antimicrobial‐treated and untreated animals.

Results

At D1PI, P. aeruginosa EC1 dominated the upper airway microbiome and was associated with a significant increase in sinus mucosa goblet cell hyperplasia, mucin hypersecretion (p < 0.001), and IFN‐γ expression in antibiotic‐treated and untreated animals, although the magnitude of pathogen enrichment was lower in the latter group. Mucin hypersecretion and IFN‐γ expression subsided by 7D7PI in both groups of mice, coincident with a depletion of the infectious strain. However, other members of the Pseudomonadaceae family remained significantly enriched (p < 0.05, q < 0.05) in the microbiome at D7PI and D10PI and this perturbation was associated with induction of eotaxin‐1 at these later time‐points.

Conclusion

Murine intranasal P. aeruginosa EC1 infection causes a pervasive shift in the sinus microbiome that persists despite histologic resolution and is associated with a reproducible immunologic shift from an initial IFN‐γ response to a temporal induction of eotaxin‐1.
Multifunctional Antibody Agonists Targeting Glucagon‐like Peptide‐1, Glucagon, and Glucose‐Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide Receptors
Authors: Wang Ying , Du Jintang , Zou Huafei , Liu Yan , Zhang Yuhan , Gonzalez Jose , Chao Elizabeth , Lu Lucy , Yang Pengyu , Parker Holly , Nguyen‐Tran Van , Shen Weijun , Wang Danling , Schultz Peter G. , Wang Feng
Published: September 2016

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor (GLP‐1R), glucagon (GCG) receptor (GCGR), and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP, also known as gastric inhibitory polypeptide) receptor (GIPR), are three metabolically related peptide hormone receptors. A novel approach to the generation of multifunctional antibody agonists that activate these receptors has been developed. Native or engineered peptide agonists for GLP‐1R, GCGR, and GIPR were fused to the N‐terminus of the heavy chain or light chain of an antibody, either alone or in pairwise combinations. The fusion proteins have similar in vitro biological activities on the cognate receptors as the corresponding peptides, but circa 100‐fold longer plasma half‐lives. The GLP‐1R mono agonist and GLP‐1R/GCGR dual agonist antibodies both exhibit potent effects on glucose control and body weight reduction in mice, with the dual agonist antibody showing enhanced activity in the latter.
Partially Saturated Bicyclic Heteroaromatics as an sp3‐Enriched Fragment Collection
Authors: Twigg David G. , Kondo Noriyasu , Mitchell Sophie L. , Galloway Warren R. J. D. , Sore Hannah F. , Madin Andrew , Spring David R.
Published: September 2016

Fragment‐based lead generation has proven to be an effective means of identifying high‐quality lead compounds for drug discovery programs. However, the fragment screening sets often used are principally comprised of sp2‐rich aromatic compounds, which limits the structural (and hence biological) diversity of the library. Herein, we describe strategies for the synthesis of a series of partially saturated bicyclic heteroaromatic scaffolds with enhanced sp3 character. Subsequent derivatization led to a fragment collection featuring regio‐ and stereo‐controlled introduction of substituents on the saturated ring system, often with formation of new stereocenters.
Nickel Catalysis Enables Oxidative C(sp2)–H/C(sp2)–H Cross‐Coupling Reactions between Two Heteroarenes
Authors: Cheng Yangyang , Wu Yimin , Tan Guangyin , You Jingsong
Published: September 2016

Nickel can be used to promote oxidative C(sp2)−H/C(sp2)−H cross‐coupling between two heteroarenes. The reaction scope can be extended to aromatic carboxamides as the coupling partner. The reaction exhibits high functional‐group compatibility and broad substrate scope. The silver oxidant can be recycled to reduce costs and waste, which is very useful for practical applications.
Enantioselective Nucleophilic β‐Carbon‐Atom Amination of Enals: Carbene‐Catalyzed Formal [3+2] Reactions
Authors: Wu Xingxing , Liu Bin , Zhang Yuexia , Jeret Martin , Wang Honglin , Zheng Pengcheng , Yang Song , Song Bao‐An , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: September 2016

An enantioselective β‐carbon amination for enals is disclosed. The nitrogen atom from a protected hydrazine with suitable electronic properties readily behaves as a nucleophile. Addition of the nitrogen nucleophile to a catalytically generated N‐heterocyclic‐carbene‐bound α,β‐unsaturated acyl azolium intermediate constructs a new carbon–nitrogen bond asymmetrically. The pyrazolidinone products from our catalytic reactions are common scaffolds in bioactive molecules, and can be easily transformed into useful compounds such as β3‐amino‐acid derivatives.
Facile CO Cleavage by a Multimetallic CsU2 Nitride Complex
Authors: Falcone Marta , Kefalidis Christos E. , Scopelliti Rosario , Maron Laurent , Mazzanti Marinella
Published: September 2016

Uranium nitrides are important materials with potential for application as fuels for nuclear power generation, and as highly active catalysts. Molecular nitride compounds could provide important insight into the nature of the uranium–nitride bond, but currently little is known about their reactivity. In this study, we found that a complex containing a nitride bridging two uranium centers and a cesium cation readily cleaved the C≡O bond (one of the strongest bonds in nature) under ambient conditions. The product formed has a [CsU2(μ‐CN)(μ‐O)] core, thus indicating that the three cations cooperate to cleave CO. Moreover, the addition of MeOTf to the nitride complex led to an exceptional valence disproportionation of the CsUIV–N–UIV core to yield CsUIII(OTf) and [MeN=UV] fragments. The important role of multimetallic cooperativity in both reactions is illustrated by the computed reaction mechanisms.
Protecting Earth's last conservation frontier: scientific, management and legal priorities for MPAs beyond national boundaries
Authors: Gjerde Kristina M. , Reeve Lora L. Nordtvedt , Harden‐Davies Harriet , Ardron Jeff , Dolan Ryan , Durussel Carole , Earle Sylvia , Jimenez Jorge A. , Kalas Peggy , Laffoley Dan , Oral Nilufer , Page Richard , Ribeiro Marta Chantal , Rochette Julien , Spadone Aurelie , Thiele Torsten , Thomas Hannah L. , Wagner Daniel , Warner Robin , Wilhelm `Aulani , Wright Glen
Published: September 2016

Marine areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) comprise most of Earth's interconnected ocean, hosting complex ecosystems that play key roles in sustaining life and providing important goods and services.

Although ABNJ encompass nearly half the planet's surface, biological diversity found in these areas remains largely unprotected. Mounting pressures generated by the escalation of human activities in ABNJ threaten vital ecosystem services and the fragile web of life that supports them.

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are widely acknowledged as an important tool for the conservation of biological diversity. Currently less than 1% of ABNJ are protected, with the vast majority of MPAs located in waters within national jurisdiction.

The existing legal framework for protection and sustainable use of ABNJ lacks common goals, principles or standards, multi‐sectoral coordination and comprehensive geographic coverage to ensure conservation or good governance grounded in science‐based decision‐making, transparency, accountability and effective enforcement.

This paper highlights the urgency and importance of protecting the last conservation frontier on Earth. Key lessons for conservation in ABNJ can be learned from regional, cross‐boundary and national experiences shared during the high seas governance workshop at the IUCN World Parks Congress in Sydney, Australia in November 2014.

The intent of this paper is to inform the deliberations now underway in the United Nations General Assembly to develop a new legally binding international instrument for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in ABNJ. It also aims to encourage further initiatives to protect and preserve our last conservation frontier using currently available mechanisms and powers consistent with international law.

Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Building the future of MPAs – lessons from history
Authors: Wells Sue , Ray G. Carleton , Gjerde Kristina M. , White Alan T. , Muthiga Nyawira , Bezaury Creel Juan E. , Causey Billy D. , McCormick‐Ray Jerry , Salm Rod , Gubbay Sue , Kelleher Graeme , Reti Joe
Published: September 2016

Marine protected areas (MPAs) have a long history, originating in traditional and cultural initiatives often focused on reserving resources for food security. A handful of ‘parks’ were established between the 1870s and 1940s and, following World War II, increased awareness of threats to the ocean led to global programmes that started in the 1970–1980s.

Initially IUCN became the leader, piloting a science‐based ‘critical marine habitats’ approach, by which MPAs were aimed at conserving the healthiest and most diverse ecosystems, endangered and charismatic species, and high‐profile habitats.

During the 1970s, with the support of WWF, UNESCO, UNEP, and growing national efforts, the MPA concept evolved to include biosphere reserves, marine reserves and sanctuaries, large ocean reserves, and other designations that aimed to reconcile long‐term protection with human use.

From the 1980s, MPAs greatly expanded in number and scope. By the turn of the millennium, MPAs were proliferating, and principles and methodologies were available to guide their establishment and management in a harmonized manner. Zoning for different uses was widespread, but questions were being raised about the efficacy of biodiversity conservation in areas where extractive uses were permitted.

MPA implementation accelerated once targets were introduced by the Convention on Biological Diversity. Campaigns and fundraising by non‐governmental organizations and further national efforts resulted in a rapid increase although, by 2015, less than 4% of ocean surface was protected.

Current challenges include: (1) understanding the role of MPAs in maintaining ecosystem services, fishery management, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and other emergent problems; (2) more rigorous network design; (3) effective governance and demonstration of ‘success’; and (4) integrating MPAs with marine spatial planning.

While MPAs have provided one of the most viable and politically acceptable approaches to marine conservation for 50 years, their role in developing a fully effective marine ecosystems management regime has yet to be fully explored and understood.

Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oxidation of Alkanes by Periodate Using a MnV Nitrido Complex as Catalyst
Authors: Ma Li , Chen Lingjing , Lau Tai‐Chu
Published: September 2016

The design of catalytic systems that can selectively oxidize unactivated C−H bonds under mild conditions is a challenge to chemists. We report here that the manganese(V) nitrido complex [MnV(N)(CN)4]2− is a highly efficient catalyst for the oxidation of alkanes by periodate (IO4−) at ambient conditions. Excellent yields of alcohols and ketones (>95 %) are obtained with a maximum turnover number (TON) of 3000.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Efficient Selective Oxidation of Nonactivated Alcohols over {001}‐Faceted TiO2 with Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Vadakkekara Raji , Biswas Abul Kalam , Sahoo Tapan , Pal Provas , Ganguly Bishwajit , Ghosh Subhash Chandra , Panda Asit Baran
Published: September 2016

In the presence of molecular oxygen, a {001}‐faceted nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 catalyst enabled the selective oxidation of nonactivated aliphatic alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes or ketones under visible light. The reaction shows excellent conversion and selectivity towards the formation of the carbonyl products without over‐oxidation to the corresponding carboxylic acids. The exceptional reactivity of the catalyst is possibly due to the absorption of visible light originating from a stronger interaction of alcohol with the {001} facet, which facilitates the modification of the band structure of TiO2, thus facilitating the photogenerated hole transfer and subsequent oxidation processes. The experimental results have also been corroborated by first‐principles quantum chemical DFT calculations.
Gibberellins are involved in effect of near‐null magnetic field on Arabidopsis flowering
Authors: Xu Chunxiao , Yu Yang , Zhang Yuxia , Li Yue , Wei Shufeng
Published: September 2016

We previously found that flowering of Arabidopsis was suppressed by near‐null magnetic field, which was related to the modification of cryptochrome. To disclose the physiological mechanism of this effect, we detected gibberellin (GA) levels and expressions of GA biosynthetic and signaling genes in wild type Arabidopsis plants and cryptochrome double mutant, cry1/cry2, grown in near‐null magnetic field. We found that levels of GA4, GA9, GA34, and GA51 in wild type plants in near‐null magnetic field were significantly decreased compared with local geomagnetic field controls. However, GA levels in cry1/cry2 mutants in near‐null magnetic field were similar to controls. Expressions of three GA20‐oxidase (GA20ox) genes (GA20ox1, GA20ox2, and GA20ox3) and four GA3‐oxidase (GA3ox) genes (GA3ox1, GA3ox2, GA3ox3, and GA3ox4) in wild type plants in near‐null magnetic field were significantly reduced compared with controls, while expressions of GA20ox4, GA20ox5, GA2‐oxidase (GA2ox) genes, and GA signaling‐related genes in wild type plants in near‐null magnetic field were not significantly different from controls. In contrast, expressions of all the detected GA biosynthetic and signaling genes in cry1/cry2 mutants were not affected by near‐null magnetic field. Moreover, transcriptions of flowering‐related genes, LFY and SOC1, in wild type plants were downregulated by near‐null magnetic field, while they were not affected by near‐null magnetic field in cry1/cry2 mutants. Our results suggest that the effect of near‐null magnetic field on Arabidopsis flowering is GA‐related, which is caused by cryptochrome‐involved suppression of GA biosynthesis. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:1–10, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
LPMOs in cellulase mixtures affect fermentation strategies for lactic acid production from lignocellulosic biomass
Authors: Müller Gerdt , Kalyani Dayanand Chandrahas , Horn Svein Jarle
Published: September 2016

Enzymatic catalysis plays a key role in the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to fuels and chemicals such as lactic acid. In the last decade, the efficiency of commercial cellulase cocktails has increased significantly, in part due to the inclusion of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs). However, the LPMOs’ need for molecular oxygen to break down cellulose demands reinvestigations of process conditions. In this study, we evaluate the efficiency of lactic acid production from steam‐exploded birch using an LPMO‐containing cellulase cocktail in combination with lactic acid bacteria, investigating both separate hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF) and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). While the SSF set up generally has been considered to be more efficient because it avoids sugar accumulation which may inhibit the cellulases, the SHF set up in our study yielded 26–32% more lactic acid than the SSF. This was mainly due to competition for oxygen between LPMOs and the fermenting organisms in the SSF process, which resulted in reduced LPMO activity and thus less efficient saccharification of the lignocellulosic substrate. By means of aeration it was possible to activate the LPMOs in the SSF, but less lactic acid was produced due to a shift in metabolic pathways toward production of acetic acid. Overall, this study shows that lactic acid can be produced efficiently from lignocellulosic biomass, but that the use of LPMO‐containing cellulase cocktails in fermentation processes demands re‐thinking of traditional process set ups due to the requirement of oxygen in the saccharification step. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 552–559. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A synthetic microbial consortium of Shewanella and Bacillus for enhanced generation of bioelectricity
Authors: Liu Ting , Yu Yang‐Yang , Chen Tao , Chen Wei Ning
Published: September 2016

In this study, a synthetic microbial consortium containing exoelectrogen Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 and riboflavin‐producing strain, Bacillus subtilis RH33, was rationally designed and successfully constructed, enabling a stable, multiple cycles of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) operation for more than 500 h. The maximum power density of MFCs with this synthetic microbial consortium was 277.4 mW/m2, which was 4.9 times of that with MR‐1 (56.9 mW/m2) and 40.2 times of RH33 (6.9 mW/m2), separately. At the same time, the Coulombic efficiency of the synthetic microbial consortium (5.6%) was higher than MR‐1 (4.1%) and RH33 (2.3%). Regardless the high concentration of riboflavin produced by RH33, the power density of RH33 was rather low. The low bioelectricity generation can be ascribed to the low efficiency of RH33 in utilizing riboflavin for extracellular electron transfer (EET). In the synthetic microbial consortium of MR‐1 and RH33, it was found that both mediated and direct electron transfer efficiencies were enhanced. By exchanging the anolyte of MR‐1 and RH33, it was confirmed that the improved MFC performance with the synthetic microbial consortium was because MR‐1 could efficiently utilize the high concentration of riboflavin produced by RH33. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 526–532. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Screening for inherited metabolic diseases using gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS) in Sichuan, China
Authors: Wang Hong , Wang Xia , Li Yingying , Dai Wei , Jiang Dongmei , Zhang Xiaodong , Cui Yali
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to retrospectively diagnose and confirm inherited metabolic diseases (IMD), from a small population of IMD high‐risk patients, with the aid of gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS/MS), technologies yet to be popularized in Sichuan, China. Using GC–MS/MS coupled with clinical diagnosis, we retrospectively analyzed samples of dried blood spots and urine specimen from 183 IMD high‐risk infant patients, who visited the West China Second Hospital of Sichuan University between June 2013 and October 2015. Four out of 183 IMD high‐risk infant patients were finally diagnosed to be IMD positive, among which two patients were identified with phenylketonuria, one with maple syrup urine disease, and 1 with methylmalonic academia. Restrictive diets and other symptomatic treatments were employed to treat the confirmed infant patients whose conditions are still under tracking and there are zero cases of death so far. GC–MS/MS was found to be an efficient and reliable way to detect IMD. It is necessary to apply GC–MS/MS, in addition to other clinical approaches, for diagnosing candidate IMD patients so that the confirmed patients can get medical intervention and timely treatment.
Pythagoras and Cosines: The skin–dural sac distance and optimal angles in paramedian spinal anesthesia
Authors: Puigdellívol‐Sánchez Anna , Reina Miguel A. , Sala‐Blanch Xavier , Pomés‐Talló Jaume , Prats‐Galino Alberto
Published: September 2016

The classical recommendation for paramedian approaches is needle insertion 1–2 cm paramedian and an angle of 10°–15° medial–cephalad to the plane of the back, but contact with vertebrae is frequent. A mathematical approach to individualizing punctures is proposed on the basis of skin–dural sac distance (d): Optimal angle ∼ inverse cosine [d/
and the distance covered by the needle ∼
for 1 cm paramedian punctures. The inferred angles were compared to optimal angles leading to the central dorsal part of the dural sac from 1 to 2 cm paramedian, measured by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in seven cases and in a short stature volunteer (1.58 m, Body Mass Index (BMI) 23.2), to study supine and fetal positions using both closed MR and ultrasound. The average (d) decreased rostrally [6.8 cm (L4–L5)−4.3 cm (T11–T12)] while the mean optimal incidence angles increased [8.3°–16.5° (L4–L5) to 12.7°–24.1° (T11–T12) at 1–2 cm paramedian, respectively] and coincided with the estimated angles with a correlation coefficient = 0.98. In the volunteer, the optimal lateromedial angles increased from 14.4° to 26.7° (L3–L4) to 17.1°–30.3° (T11–T12) for a (d) = 3.7 cm (L3–L4)−3.1 cm (T11–T12) and increased ≤3.7° and ≤5.1° at 1 and 2 cm paramedian, respectively, in fetal positions in MR. Ultrasound yielded comparable figures. The range of possible angles for dural punctures is wider at 1 cm paramedian in lower approaches in lateral decubitus [from 3.6° at T12L1 (12.2°–15.8°) to 9° at L3L4 (8.8°–18.7°)]. The classically recommended angles of 10°–15° differ from the optimal angles, particularly in small patients, suggesting the need for ultrasound guidance or for inferring angles prior to spinal anesthesia. Clin. Anat. 29:1046–1052, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constraining an Irregular Peptide Secondary Structure through Ring‐Closing Alkyne Metathesis
Authors: Cromm Philipp M. , Wallraven Kerstin , Glas Adrian , Bier David , Fürstner Alois , Ottmann Christian , Grossmann Tom N.
Published: September 2016

Macrocyclization can be used to constrain peptides in their bioactive conformations, thereby supporting target affinity and bioactivity. In particular, for the targeting of challenging protein–protein interactions, macrocyclic peptides have proven to be very useful. Available approaches focus on the stabilization of α‐helices, which limits their general applicability. Here we report for the first time on the use of ring‐closing alkyne metathesis for the stabilization of an irregular peptide secondary structure. A small library of alkyne‐crosslinked peptides provided a number of derivatives with improved target affinity relative to the linear parent peptide. In addition, we report the crystal structure of the highest‐affinity derivative in a complex with its protein target 14‐3‐3ζ. It can be expected that the alkyne‐based macrocyclization of irregular binding epitopes should give rise to new scaffolds suitable for targeting of currently intractable proteins.
The Importance of Methyl Positioning and Tautomeric Equilibria for Imidazole Nucleophilicity
Authors: Campos Renan B. , Menezes Leociley R. A. , Barison Andersson , Tantillo Dean J. , Orth Elisa S.
Published: September 2016

Imidazole (IMZ) rings catalyze many biological dephosphorylation processes. The methyl positioning effect on IMZs reactivity has long intrigued scientists and its full understanding comprises a promising tool for designing highly efficient IMZ‐based catalysts. We evaluated all monosubstituted methylimidazoles (xMEI) in the reaction with diethyl 2,4‐dinitrophenyl phosphate by kinetics studies, NMR analysis and DFT calculations. All xMEI showed remarkable rate enhancements, up to 1.9×105 fold, compared with spontaneous hydrolysis. Unexpectedly, the electron‐donating methyl group acts to decrease the reactivity of the xMEI compared to IMZ, except for 4(5)methylimidazole, (4(5)MEI). This behavior was attributed to both electronic and steric effects. Moreover, reaction intermediates were monitored by NMR and surprisingly, the reactivity of the two different 4(5)MEI tautomers was distinguished.
Evaluation of Performance of Periodically Operated Reactors for Single Input Modulations of General Waveforms
Authors: Nikolić Daliborka , Petkovska Menka
Published: September 2016

The nonlinear frequency response (NFR) method is used for evaluating the time‐average performance of a chemical reactor subjected to single input modulations of general waveforms, by using Fourier series for representing the input and Volterra series for representing the output. Both the input and the output are approximated by finite sums. The obtained results are applied for the case of a square‐wave input modulation. As a case study, the improvement of an isothermal continuous stirred‐tank reactor with simple reaction mechanism with modulation of the inlet reactant concentration is used and the results are tested on a numerical example.
Relationship Among Risk Score Systems and Coronary Atherosclerosis Determined by Multislice Computed Tomography
Authors: García‐Lledó Alberto , Moya‐Mur José L. , Ponz‐Mir Virginia , Novo‐Aparicio Susana , Sanz‐Barrio Azucena , Álvarez‐Sanz Concepción , de Santiago‐Nocito Ana
Published: September 2016

Background

Risk score systems (RSS) were designed to estimate the risk of cardiac events. Their ability to predict coronary atherosclerosis (CA) has not been established.

Hypothesis

Risk score systems can predict presence of CA in patients without typical symptoms or ischemia. Because design of each RSS is different, their predictive value could also differ.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was done on patients from a low‐risk region referred for cardiac multislice computed tomography (MSCT). The sample included low‐ to intermediate‐risk patients with nontypical chest pain and asymptomatic high‐risk patients. Patients with documented ischemia were excluded. Three RSS were determined: Framingham Risk Score (FRS), Regicor (FRS calibrated for Spanish population), and Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE). Coronary arteries were investigated to determine calcium score and presence of protruding atheromas.

Results

We analyzed 582 patients (53.8% male; mean age 51 ± 11.5 years). Their mean estimated risk was intermediate: 15.6 ± 10.4 by FRS, 6.3 ± 4.3 by Regicor, and 3.9 ± 4.1 by SCORE. The MSCT showed no CA in 38.8%, nonobstructive plaques in 28.7%, and obstructive ones in 32.5%. The ability of the RSS to predict CA was not significantly different, with moderate diagnostic value (areas under ROC curves, 0.72–0.65). The prevalence of CA was high in low‐risk patients: 40%, 47%, and 53% in FRS, Regicor, and SCORE low‐risk patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Risk score systems have only moderate diagnostic value to predict presence of CA, without significant differences among them. Coronary artery disease is highly prevalent in patients considered low risk.
Oral Administration of Peptide‐Based Drugs: Beyond Lipinski's Rule
Authors: Santos Gabriela B. , Ganesan A. , Emery Flavio S.
Published: September 2016

The use of peptides in therapy presents several limitations, from physicochemical characteristics to inadequate pharmacokinetic profiles for oral absorption. As peptides are gaining importance in the therapeutic arsenal, there is an increasing need to rationalize the main characteristics of this compound class in the market. Therefore, we performed an extensive analysis of all known peptide drugs and clinical candidates based on their peptide features, physicochemical and structural properties, and correlated these with their administration route and therapeutic classes. Peptide drugs are widely distributed across drug and pharmacological space, covering several therapeutic areas with structural diversity and complexity, distributed between groups of cyclic and linear compounds. Although structural and physicochemical properties are clear within these groups, we counter the consensus that cyclic peptides have better oral availability than linear peptides, as most of the orally administrated peptides have linear structures. This study and review furnishes information that could support peptide drug design, with a new cutoff of known descriptors that go beyond the Rule of Five.
Myelin‐targeted, texaphyrin‐based multimodal imaging agent for magnetic resonance and optical imaging
Authors: Vithanarachchi Sashiprabha M. , Foley Casey D. , Trimpin Sarah , Ewing James R. , Ali Meser M. , Allen Matthew J.
Published: September 2016

Reliable methods of imaging myelin are essential to investigate the causes of demyelination and to study drugs that promote remyelination. Myelin‐specific compounds can be developed into imaging probes to detect myelin with various imaging techniques. The development of multimodal myelin‐specific imaging probes enables the use of orthogonal imaging techniques to accurately visualize myelin content and validate experimental results. Here, we describe the synthesis and application of multimodal myelin‐specific imaging agents for light microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging. The imaging agents were synthesized by incorporating the structural features of luxol fast blue MBS, a myelin‐specific histological stain, into texaphyrins coordinated to GdIII. These new complexes demonstrated absorption of visible light, emission of near‐IR light, and relaxivity values greater than clinically approved contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. These properties enable the use of optical imaging and magnetic resonance imaging for visualization of myelin. We performed section‐ and en block‐staining of ex vivo mouse brains to investigate the specificity for myelin of the new compounds. Images obtained from light microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrate that our complexes are retained in white matter structures and enable detection of myelin. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computational virtual evaluation of the effect of annuloplasty ring shape
Authors: Choi Ahnryul , McPherson David D. , Kim Hyunggun
Published: September 2016

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a result of mitral valve (MV) pathology. Its etiology can be categorized as degenerative or functional MR. Ring annuloplasty aims to reconfigure a dilated mitral annulus to its normal size and shape. We investigated the effect of annuloplasty ring shape on MR outcome using our established 3‐dimensional (3‐D) echocardiography‐based computational MV evaluation protocols. Virtual patient MV models were created from 3‐D transesophageal echocardiographic data in patients with MR because of mitral annular dilation. Two distinct annuloplasty rings (Physio II and GeoForm) were designed and virtually implanted to the patient MVs. Dynamic finite element simulations of MV function were performed for each MV after virtual ring annuloplasty of either ring, and physiologic and biomechanical characteristics of MV function were compared. Excessive stress values appeared primarily in the midanterior and midposterior regions, and lack of leaflet coaptation was found in pre‐annuloplasty patient MVs. Both rings demonstrated marked reduction of stresses and efficient leaflet coaptation. The Physio II ring demonstrated more evenly distributed stress reduction across the leaflets and annulus compared with the GeoForm ring. Conversely, the highly nonplanar curvature of the GeoForm ring more effectively increased leaflet coaptation compared with the Physio II ring. This indicates that the shape of annuloplasty ring affects post‐annuloplasty physiologic and biomechanical conditions, which can lead to tissue alteration over a longer period after ring annuloplasty. This virtual ring annuloplasty simulation strategy provides detailed physiologic and biomechanical information and may help better plan the optimal ring selection and improved patient‐specific MV repairs.
Single cell analysis of human tissues and solid tumors with mass cytometry
Authors: Leelatian Nalin , Doxie Deon B. , Greenplate Allison R. , Mobley Bret C. , Lehman Jonathan M. , Sinnaeve Justine , Kauffmann Rondi M. , Werkhaven Jay A. , Mistry Akshitkumar M. , Weaver Kyle D. , Thompson Reid C. , Massion Pierre P. , Hooks Mary A. , Kelley Mark C. , Chambless Lola B. , Ihrie Rebecca A. , Irish Jonathan M.
Published: September 2016

Background

Mass cytometry measures 36 or more markers per cell and is an appealing platform for comprehensive phenotyping of cells in human tissue and tumor biopsies. While tissue disaggregation and fluorescence cytometry protocols were pioneered decades ago, it is not known whether established protocols will be effective for mass cytometry and maintain cancer and stromal cell diversity.

Methods

Tissue preparation techniques were systematically compared for gliomas and melanomas, patient derived xenografts of small cell lung cancer, and tonsil tissue as a control. Enzymes assessed included DNase, HyQTase, TrypLE, collagenase (Col) II, Col IV, Col V, and Col XI. Fluorescence and mass cytometry were used to track cell subset abundance following different enzyme combinations and treatment times.

Results

Mechanical disaggregation paired with enzymatic dissociation by Col II, Col IV, Col V, or Col XI plus DNase for 1 h produced the highest yield of viable cells per gram of tissue. Longer dissociation times led to increasing cell death and disproportionate loss of cell subsets. Key markers for establishing cell identity included CD45, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19, CD64, HLA‐DR, CD11c, CD56, CD44, GFAP, S100B, SOX2, nestin, vimentin, cytokeratin, and CD31. Mass and fluorescence cytometry identified comparable frequencies of cancer cell subsets, leukocytes, and endothelial cells in glioma (R = 0.97), and tonsil (R = 0.98).

Conclusions

This investigation establishes standard procedures for preparing viable single cell suspensions that preserve the cellular diversity of human tissue microenvironments. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Performance study of hybrid decode–amplify–forward (HDAF) relaying scheme for physical layer security in wireless cooperative network
Authors: Gurrala Kiran Kumar , Das Susmita
Published: September 2016

In this paper, the secrecy performance and power allocation of the signal‐to‐noise ratio‐based hybrid decode–amplify–forward (HDAF) relaying protocol in wireless cooperative network are investigated to get security at physical layer. The performance metrics considered are secrecy rate and intercept probability. The Ergodic secrecy rate is approximated theoretically. The effect of relay and eavesdropper locations on the secrecy performance of the system is analyzed. It is found that maximum secrecy rate is obtained for the relay close‐to‐destination case and minimum for the relay close‐to‐eavesdropper case. Jamming schemes are superior in secrecy rate performance than without jamming schemes. To enhance the secrecy rate further with the optimized relay and jammer powers, invasive weed optimization (IWO) algorithm‐based power allocation is proposed. Here, maximizing the secrecy rate is defined as the cost function for the proposed IWO algorithm‐based power allocation. Comparative study is done over the conventional equal and proposed power allocation schemes for validation. The proposed power allocation scheme proved to be superior. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluating mountain meadow groundwater response to Pinyon‐Juniper and temperature in a great basin watershed
Authors: Carroll Rosemary W.H. , Huntington Justin L. , Snyder Keirith A. , Niswonger Richard G. , Morton Charles , Stringham Tamzen K.
Published: September 2016

This research highlights development and application of an integrated hydrologic model (GSFLOW) to a semiarid, snow‐dominated watershed in the Great Basin to evaluate Pinyon‐Juniper (PJ) and temperature controls on mountain meadow shallow groundwater. The work used Google Earth Engine Landsat satellite and gridded climate archives for model evaluation. Model simulations across three decades indicated that the watershed operates on a threshold response to precipitation (P) >400 mm/y to produce a positive yield (P‐ET; 9%) resulting in stream discharge and a rebound in meadow groundwater levels during these wetter years. Observed and simulated meadow groundwater response to large P correlates with above average predicted soil moisture and with a normalized difference vegetation index threshold value >0.3. A return to assumed pre‐expansion PJ conditions or an increase in temperature to mid‐21st century shifts yielded by only ±1% during the multi‐decade simulation period; but changes of approximately ±4% occurred during wet years. Changes in annual yield were largely dampened by the spatial and temporal redistribution of evapotranspiration across the watershed: Yet the influence of this redistribution and vegetation structural controls on snowmelt altered recharge to control water table depth in the meadow. Even a small‐scale removal of PJ (0.5 km2) proximal to the meadow will promote a stable, shallow groundwater system resilient to droughts, while modest increases in temperature will produce a meadow susceptible to declining water levels and a community structure likely to move toward dry and degraded conditions.
Next generation gene synthesis: From microarrays to genomes
Authors: Kuhn Phillip , Wagner Katrin , Heil Korbinian , Liss Michael , Netuschil Nikolai
Published: September 2016

Similar to the incredible advances in DNA sequencing, the de novo synthesis of DNA is subject to innovations and fast progress in terms of synthesis speed and cost. We will discuss novel techniques that are expected to enable high‐throughput synthesis of oligonucleotides on microarrays and the subsequent assembly into longer fragments, up to whole genomes. Especially, the inherent disadvantages of microarray‐derived oligonucleotide pools for gene synthesis will be discussed in detail, and also the different approaches to still render these oligonucleotides useful for gene assembly. These so‐called next‐generation techniques will lead to a significant cost reduction of gene synthesis and to the possibility of much larger projects, such as whole genome synthesis.
Sustainable development and anthropogenic induced geomorphic hazards in subsiding areas
Authors: Abou Karaki Najib , Fiaschi Simone , Closson Damien
Published: September 2016

In many areas of the world, subsidence related to the lowering of the water table is modifying the landscape and provoking costly environmental hazards.

We consider the Dead Sea (the Earth's lowest lake) as a model. Its water level was 395 m bMSL in the 1960s. Due to water diversions in the catchment area, as of 2016, the level has dropped to about 430 m bMSL. Here, as in other parts of the Anthropocene world, from China, to Iran, to Turkey, to Canada and the United States, consequences of human interventions are rapidly modifying the environment. Aggressive geomorphic processes leading to accelerated degradations are taking place and affecting landforms and infrastructures.

In Tectonic terms, the lake is a pull‐apart basin resulting from the motion of the Dead Sea Transform fault. Since the 1960s, a slice of brine of about 35 km3 has been lost. The water table is dropping more rapidly in the lake than in the coastal zone creating an ever‐increasing head difference. Consequently, groundwater moves towards the sea to compensate for the imbalance, provoking the reactivation of the area's paleo‐channels with subsidence, sinkholes, and landslides.

Since the 1980s, industrial‐touristic infrastructure has covered newly emerging lands in geomorphic hazards‐prone areas of the coastal zone.

Time series analysis of high to very high resolution visible/radar satellite images acquired from the 1970s to present, revealed major landscape evolution. Such dynamic systems prevailing in recent decades permitted the study of human/environment interactions to help minimize their effects.

Major deformations of an industrial dike were analysed and quantified. The results underline the necessity in the Anthropocene of careful analysis of relevant data sources acquired before and during subsidence, particularly in karst topography zones and prior to the development of major human activities in economically appealing environments around the world. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.