bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Asymmetric Strecker Reaction: Bifunctional Chiral Tertiary Amine/Hydrogen‐Bond Donor Catalysis Joins the Field
Authors: Liu Yun‐Lin , Zhou Jian
Published: June 2015

Review: [73 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: New Click‐Chemistry Methods for 1,2,3‐Triazoles Synthesis: Recent Advances and Applications
Authors: Totobenazara Jane , Burke Anthony J.
Published: June 2015

Review: 74 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Labeling of Brassinosteroids by Isotopes of Hydrogen and Carbon
Authors: Patil Mahadeo R. , Elbert Tomas , Ker Rangappa S.
Published: June 2015

Review: [53 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Progress in the Preparation of Jatrophane Diterpenes
Authors: Rinner Uwe
Published: June 2015

Review: [78 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Mechanisms of Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling Reactions
Authors: Tsang Althea S.‐K. , Park Soo J. , Todd Matthew H.
Published: June 2015

Review: 220 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) as a Green Solvent for Carbon—Carbon Bond Formation Reactions
Authors: Vafaeezadeh Majid , Hashemi Mohammad Mahmoodi
Published: June 2015

Review: 81 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: N‐Bridged Dimers of Tetrapyrroles Complexed by Transition Metals: Syntheses, Characterization Methods, and Uses as Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Isci Umit , Dumoulin Fabienne , Sorokin Alexander B. , Ahsen Vefa
Published: June 2015

Review: 86 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Exploiting Metal‐Ligand Bifunctional Reactions in the Design of Iron Asymmetric Hydrogenation Catalysts
Authors: Morris Robert H.
Published: June 2015

Review: 74 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Biomolecular Hydration Dynamics Probed with 2D‐IR Spectroscopy: From Dilute Solution to a Macromolecular Crowd
Authors: King John T. , Arthur Evan J. , Osborne Derek G. , Brooks Charles L. III , Kubarych Kevin J.
Published: June 2015

Review: 28 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Rechargeable Magnesium Battery: Current Status and Key Challenges for the Future
Authors: Saha Partha , Datta Moni Kanchan , Velikokhatnyi Oleg I. , Manivannan Ayyakkannu , Alman David , Kumta Prashant N.
Published: June 2015

Review: 239 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Self‐Assembled Discrete Molecules for Sensing Nitroaromatics
Authors: Shanmugaraju Sankarasekaran , Mukherjee Partha Sarathi
Published: June 2015

Review: [37 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Issues and Challenges for Bulk‐Type All‐Solid‐State Rechargeable Lithium Batteries Using Sulfide Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Jung Yoon Seok , Oh Dae Yang , Nam Young Jin , Park Kern Ho
Published: June 2015

Review: [77 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Surface Modification of Silicon Anodes for Durable and High—Energy Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Son Seoung‐Bum , Kappes Branden , Ban Chunmei
Published: June 2015

Review: [95 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: A Review on Treatment of Sugar Industry Effluents by Up Flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket Reactor
Authors: Reddy A. Vamsi Krishna , Prasad M. P. Durgha , Sujatha V. , Sridevi V.
Published: June 2015

Review: 18 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Saturation Vapor Pressures and Transition Enthalpies of Low‐Volatility Organic Molecules of Atmospheric Relevance: From Dicarboxylic Acids to Complex Mixtures
Authors: Bilde Merete , Barsanti Kelley , Booth Murray , Cappa Christopher D. , Donahue Neil M. , Emanuelsson Eva U. , McFiggans Gordon , Krieger Ulrich K. , Marcolli Claudia , Topping David , et al.
Published: June 2015

Review: 257 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Atmospheric Pressure Anion Mass Spectrometry: Electron Affinities and Activation Energies of Thermal Electron Attachment — Perfluoromethylcyclohexane, C7F14
Authors: Chen Edward S. , Chen Edward C. M. , Barrera Louis K. , Herder Charles
Published: June 2015

Review: 51 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Broadband 1H Homodecoupled NMR Experiments: Recent Developments, Methods and Applications
Authors: Castanar Laura , Parella Teodor
Published: June 2015

Review: 155 refs.
Methan‐Monooxygenase‐Aktionszentrum Q
Authors: Jaenicke Lothar
Published: June 2015

In Erdölformationen und Tonschiefern eingeschlossen, unter dem Tiefseeschlamm unter hohem Druck aggregiert, lagern immense Mengen des Treibhausgases Methan, auf die die energiehungrige Menschheit beutegierige Augen geworfen hat, sie unbarmherzig mit allen Mitteln herbeizufördern und zu verbrauchen. Bislang wird Methan nur als nutzlos‐eindrucksvolles Fanal technischer Impotenz “abgefackelt”, im intelligenteren Fall die höchst energiereiche C‐H‐Bindung von CH4 (105 kcal mol–1, das Maximum aller organischen Bindungen) im energie‐ und investitionsaufwendigen Hochtemperatur‐Hochdruck‐Verfahren nach Fischer‐Tropsch zu Methanol oxidiert und zu längerkettigen Kohlenwasserstoffen verarbeitet. Die Natur macht vor, dass es auch anders geht.
A comparison of iopromide and iopamidol, two acidoCEST MRI contrast media that measure tumor extracellular pH
Authors: Moon Brianna F. , Jones Kyle M. , Chen Liu Qi , Liu Peilu , Randtke Edward A. , Howison Christine M. , Pagel Mark D.
Published: June 2015

Acidosis within tumor and kidney tissues has previously been quantitatively measured using a molecular imaging technique known as acidoCEST MRI. The previous studies used iopromide and iopamidol, two iodinated contrast agents that are approved for clinical CT diagnoses and have been repurposed for acidoCEST MRI studies. We aimed to compare the performance of the two agents for measuring pH by optimizing image acquisition conditions, correlating pH with a ratio of CEST effects from an agent, and evaluating the effects of concentration, endogenous T1 relaxation time and temperature on the pH–CEST ratio correlation for each agent. These results showed that the two agents had similar performance characteristics, although iopromide produced a pH measurement with a higher dynamic range while iopamidol produced a more precise pH measurement. We then compared the performance of the two agents to measure in vivo extracellular pH (pHe) within xenograft tumor models of Raji lymphoma and MCF‐7 breast cancer. Our results showed that the pHe values measured with each agent were not significantly different. Also, iopromide consistently measured a greater region of the tumor relative to iopamidol in both tumor models. Therefore, an iodinated contrast agent for acidoCEST MRI should be selected based on the measurement properties needed for a specific biomedical study and the pharmacokinetic properties of a specific tumor model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reply to treatment decisions and outcome in very elderly patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Williams Jessica N. , Koff Jean L. , Flowers Christopher R.
Published: June 2015

Reduced doses of R‐CHOP, non‐anthracycline‐based regimens, and non‐pegylated liposomal doxorubicin are potential alternative regimens for elderly patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma who cannot tolerate standard R‐CHOP. Radiation therapy with abbreviated R‐CHOP should also be further investigated as a treatment option in this population.
Are we missing an opportunity for cancer prevention? Human papillomavirus vaccination for survivors of pediatric and young adult cancers
Authors: Temkin Sarah M. , Seibel Nita L.
Published: June 2015

Survivors of pediatric and young adult cancers remain at risk for subsequent diseases, including those related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Prevention of HPV acquisition through vaccination has become possible over the last decade. HPV vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective, yet rates of vaccination among childhood cancer survivors have remained low. Multiple factors, including stronger advocacy for this intervention from providers, could potentially increase vaccination and lead to lower HPV disease burdens for childhood cancer survivors. Health care providers for survivors of pediatric and adolescent cancers should prioritize counseling for HPV vaccination at follow‐up visits. Cancer 2015;121:3435–43. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Does one size fit all? The updated ovarian cancer staging: Still a work in progress
Authors: Duska Linda R. , Kohn Elise C.
Published: June 2015

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) has recognized serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma as a precursor lesion for high‐grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer. Future staging systems should consider reclassifying stage based on tumor biologic behavior.
Racial differences in breast cancer survival in a large urban integrated health system
Authors: Roseland Molly E. , Pressler Mary E. , E. Lamerato Lois , Krajenta Rick , Ruterbusch Julie J. , Booza Jason C. , Schwartz Kendra , Simon Michael S.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

African American (AA) women are known to have poorer breast cancer survival than whites, and the differences may be related to underlying disparities in their clinical presentation or access to care. This study evaluated the relationship between demographic, treatment, and socioeconomic factors and breast cancer survival among women in southeast Michigan.

METHODS

The population included 2387 women (34% AA) with American Joint Committee on Cancer stage I to III breast cancer who were treated at the Henry Ford Health System (HFHS) from 1996 through 2005. Linked data sets from the HFHS, the Metropolitan Detroit Cancer Surveillance System, and the US Census Bureau were used to obtain demographic and clinical information. Comorbidities were classified with the modified Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). Economic deprivation was categorized with a census tract–based deprivation index (DI), which was stratified into 5 quintiles of increasing socioeconomic disadvantage.

RESULTS

Compared with whites, AA women were significantly more likely to have larger, hormone receptor–negative tumors and more comorbidities and to reside in an economically deprived area. In an unadjusted analysis, AAs had a significantly higher risk of death (hazard ratio [HR], 1.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16‐1.59); however, after adjustments for clinical (age, stage, hormone receptor, and CCI) and societal factors (DI), the effect of race was not significant (HR, 1.13 [95% CI, 0.96–1.34] , and HR, 0.97 [0.80–1.19] respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Racial differences in breast cancer survival can be explained by clinical and socioeconomic factors. Nonetheless, AA women with breast cancer remain disproportionately affected by unfavorable tumor characteristics and economic deprivation, which likely contribute to their increased overall mortality. Cancer 2015;121:3668–3675. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Toxicity of a novel therapeutic agent targeting mitochondrial complex I
Authors: Low Wang CC , Galinkin JL , Hiatt WR
Published: June 2015

R118 is an experimental compound that completed preclinical development as a potential medical therapy for the exercise limitation in peripheral artery disease. Animal studies established that R118 provided partial and reversible mitochondrial complex I inhibition with consequent increases in adenosine monophosphate (AMP) kinase activation in liver and skeletal muscle. After demonstration of improved exercise performance in a mouse model and safety in rodent and primate models, a phase I trial was performed in 24 subjects randomized to R118 vs. placebo (5:1) in escalating doses. Plasma lactic acid levels were transiently elevated in 20% of subjects at the lowest dose and in 100% of subjects using a different formulation at the highest dose, which was associated with hospitalization in all subjects and severe metabolic acidosis requiring prolonged intubation in two subjects. Thus, inhibition of mitochondrial complex I with R118 resulted in severe lactic acidosis, representing unacceptable toxicity from this mechanism of action.
Preparation of textured porous Al2O3 ceramics by slip casting in a strong magnetic field and its mechanical properties
Authors: Yang Zhigang , Yu Jianbo , Li Chuanjun , Zhong Yunbo , Xuan Weidong , Ren Zhongming , Wang Qiuliang , Dai Yinming , Wang Hui
Published: June 2015

The textured porous Al2O3 ceramics were prepared by slip casting in a strong magnetic field of 6 T and subsequently sintering. The c axis of Al2O3 grain was oriented parallel to the direction of the magnetic field and the textured porous microstructure with plate‐shape grains was formed. The porosity of textured porous Al2O3 ceramic was 30.37% and the relative density reached 66.29% when the sintering temperature is 1600°C. The textured porous Al2O3 green body showed the linear shrinkage anisotropy. The bending strength of the textured porous Al2O3 ceramics depended on the alignment direction of plate‐shape grains.
Draw on your own experiences to support students through adversity
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2015

When Lorraine Morales dropped out of high school as a junior in New Mexico, she never expected that her educational journey would lead her to one day become the president of Pima Community College. Years later, after completing her GED and realizing that her employment opportunities were limited because of her lack of higher education, Morales returned to school at Western New Mexico University, the first member of her family to pursue a postsecondary credential.
Effect of six years intensified multifactorial treatment on levels of hs‐CRP and adiponectin in patients with screen detected type 2 diabetes: The ADDITION‐Netherlands randomized trial
Authors: den Ouden Henk , Berends Jacqueline , Stellato Rebecca K. , Beulens Joline W. , Rutten Guy E. H. M.
Published: June 2015

Background

Levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and adiponectin, reflecting chronic inflammation, are associated with cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes. The long‐term effects of multifactorial therapy in type 2 diabetes patients on CRP and adiponectin are unknown.

Methods

The ADDITION‐NL study is a randomized clinical trial among screen‐detected type 2 diabetes patients, randomized to intensive treatment (HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol), blood pressure ≤135/85 mmHg, total cholesterol ≤3.5 mmol/L) or routine care. Hs‐CRP and adiponectin were measured before and 1, 2 and 6 years after inclusion. We analysed the effectiveness of the intervention on hs‐CRP and adiponectin levels using a mixed effects model, taking into account practice, baseline levels and different medications.

Results

A total of 424 patients were included (intensive care n = 235; routine care n = 189). Both groups were well matched. Body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and HbA1c improved significantly more in the intensive care group compared to routine care group. Levels of hs‐CRP decreased significantly in both treatment groups over time. Mean hs‐CRP in the routine care group was 24% higher (p = 0.0027) than in the intensive treatment group during follow‐up. After an initial increase the adiponectin values levelled off to nearly baseline values in both groups. The difference between the two groups after 6 years was 0.44 µg/mL (p = 0.27).

Conclusions

Intensified multifactorial treatment in type 2 diabetes results in an enhanced decrease in hs‐CRP. Whether this is clinically meaningful remains uncertain. The link to adiponectin seems to be more complex. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Four Natural Homoisoflavonoids
Authors: Yu Yan‐Chao , Zhu Shijun , Lu Xiao‐Wei , Wu Yikang , Liu Bo
Published: June 2015

Four naturally occurring sappanin‐type homoisoflavonoids were synthesized in optically active form with the stereogenic centers of predefined absolute configuration constructed by using Evans' asymmetric aldol reaction. Analysis of the synthesized compounds not only confirmed the previously assigned planar structures but also was used to determine the absolute configurations of the natural products. Errors in previously reported NMR signals/solvents are also revealed.
Synthesis and Isolation of Enantiomerically Enriched Cyclopenta[b]benzofurans Based on Products from Anodic Oxidation of 2,4‐Dimethylphenol
Authors: Mirion Michael , Andernach Lars , Stobe Caroline , Barjau Joaquin , Schollmeyer Dieter , Opatz Till , Lützen Arne , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: June 2015

The anodic treatment of 2,4‐dimethylphenol offers a powerful and direct method for the construction of a dehydrotetramer with four contiguous stereocentres on a multigram scale. The installation of propellanes on this scaffold using enantiomerically pure carbonyl compounds leads to a mixture of diastereomers. This mixture is easily separable using standard chromatography and gives rise to optically pure cyclopenta[b]benzofurans which are important scaffolds in a variety of natural products. The synthesis is easy to perform and allows a reliable access to chiral compounds with very high enantiomeric excess. It was possible to determine the absolute configuration of these compounds by comparison of experimentally recorded and calculated VCD spectra of all enantiomers.
Dynamic characteristics and seismic behavior of prefabricated steel stairs in a full‐scale five‐story building shake table test program
Authors: Wang Xiang , Astroza Rodrigo , Hutchinson Tara C. , Conte Joel P. , Restrepo José I.
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates the dynamic characteristics and seismic behavior of prefabricated steel stairs in a full‐scale five‐story building shake table test program. The test building was subjected to a suite of earthquake input motions and low‐amplitude white noise base excitations first, while the building was isolated at its base, and subsequently while it was fixed to the shake table platen. This paper presents the modal characteristics of the stairs identified using the data recorded from white noise base excitation tests as well as the physical and measured responses of the stairs from the earthquake tests. The observed damage to the stairs is categorized into three distinct damage states and is correlated with the interstory drift demands of the building. These shake table tests highlight the seismic vulnerability of modern designed stair systems and in particular identifies as a key research need the importance of improving the deformability of flight‐to‐building connections. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A meshless method for numerical simulation of depth‐averaged turbulence flows using ak‐ϵmodel
Authors: Alhuri Yasser , Benkhaldoun Fayssal , Ouazar Driss , Seaid Mohammed , Taik Ahmed
Published: June 2015

We investigate the performance of a meshless method for the numerical simulation of depth‐averaged turbulence flows. The governing equations are shallow water equations obtained by depth averaging of the full Reynolds equations including bed frictions, eddy viscosity, wind shear stresses, and Coriolis forces. As a double‐phase closure turbulence model, we consider the depth‐averagedk‐ϵmodel. A truly meshless numerical method based on radial basis functions is employed to obtain an accurate approximation to the solution of the model. We validate the algorithm on a linear shallow water problem where analytical solutions are available. Numerical results are also compared with experimental data for a backward‐facing flow problem. Furthermore, we test the method on a practical problem by simulating tidal flows in the Strait of Gibraltar. The main focus is to examine the performance of the meshless method for complex geometries with irregular bathymetry. The obtained results demonstrate its ability to capture the main flow features. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peripheral basophil reactivity, CD203c expression by Cryj1 stimulation, is useful for diagnosing seasonal allergic rhinitis by Japanese cedar pollen
Authors: Imoto Yoshimasa , Takabayashi Tetsuji , Sakashita Masafumi , Tokunaga Takahiro , Ninomiya Takahiro , Ito Yumi , Narita Norihiko , Yamada Takechiyo , Fujieda Shigeharu
Published: June 2015

Measuring specific IgE can yield direct, accurate, and objective data. Nevertheless, clinical symptoms of allergy are often inconsistent with these data. Recently, the expression of CD203c, a surface marker of basophils, has been reported as capable of distinguishing allergic patients. This study compared specific IgE in serum and skin tests against antigen to assess CD203c as a biomarker correlated with allergic rhinitis (AR). We asked 3,453 subjects whether they experienced any AR related symptom. All subjects were assessed for six specific IgEs for common aeroallergens. Skin tests were also conducted for six aeroallergens. We observed the reactivity of peripheral basophil by measuring the levels of CD203c by Cryj1 stimulation using flow cytometry. Of the 3,453 participants, 1,987 (57.5%) possessed Japanese cedar pollen (JCP) specific IgE in their serum. Among those 1,987 JCP specific IgE positive participants, 552 (27.8%) had not experienced any allergic symptom during the JCP season. The levels of CD203c in the peripheral basophil by Cryj1 stimulation were significantly higher in SAR‐JCP subjects than in non‐SAR‐JCP subjects (Cryj1 0.5 ng/ml: 2.25 ± 0.90% vs. 60.2 ± 27.4%, p < 0.01, Cryj1 50 ng/ml: 1.89 ± 0.90% vs. 68.0 ± 21.2%, p < 0.01). Our results indicate that the levels of CD203c in peripheral basophils by Cryj1 stimulation is a more objective and reliable marker that better reflects the allergic reaction by SAR‐JCP in vivo than measuring specific IgE in serum or skin tests.
γ‐Glutamyltransferase and cancer risk: The Korean cancer prevention study
Authors: Mok Yejin , Son Dong‐Koog , Yun Young Duk , Jee Sun Ha , Samet Jonathan M.
Published: June 2015

Elevated serum γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) is a marker of hepatic injury and is associated with risk of chronic disease. However, the value of GGT as a biomarker for cancer risk remains unclear. Therefore, we evaluated the association of serum GGT with cancer incidence among more than 1.6 million Koreans. We included 1,662,087 Koreans (1,108,121 men and 553,966 women aged 20–95 years) who received health insurance from the National Health Insurance Service and had a biennial medical evaluation between 1995 and 1998. Follow‐up was through December 2012. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we adjusted for age, smoking status, alcohol consumption, exercise and body mass index after exclusion of early cases (cancer diagnosis or death within 5 years of starting follow‐up) and estimated hazard ratios (HRs) of overall and organ‐specific cancer incidence by GGT quintiles. During the 17‐year follow‐up, 129,087 new cancer cases occurred among the participants. Across levels of GGT, there was a positive gradient of HR and the highest quintile of GGT (≥60 IU/L) had the highest HR for all cancers in both men and women. By cancer site, the association was strongest for liver cancer, comparing the highest and lowest strata in men [HR, 6.67; 95% confidence interval (95%CI), 5.88–7.57] and in women (HR, 7.57; 95%CI, 6.41–8.94). Significant associations were also observed for cancers of the esophagus, larynx, stomach, colorectal, bile duct and lung in men and of the bile duct in women. Increased serum GGT level is independently associated with risk of cancer.
Nanoparticle uptake by macrophages in vulnerable plaques for atherosclerosis diagnosis
Authors: Melzer Susanne , Ankri Rinat , Fixler Dror , Tarnok Attila
Published: June 2015

The composition of atherosclerotic (AS) plaques is crucial concerning rupture, thrombosis and clinical events. Two plaque types are distinguished: stable and vulnerable plaques. Vulnerable plaques are rich in inflammatory cells, mostly only M1 macrophages, and are highly susceptible to rupture. These plaques represent a high risk particularly with the standard invasive diagnosis by coronary angiography. So far there are no non‐invasive low‐risk clinical approaches available to detect and distinguish AS plaque types in vivo.
The perspective review introduces a whole work‐flow for a novel approach for non‐invasive detection and classification of AS plaques using the diffusion reflection method with gold nanoparticle loaded macrophages in combination with flow and image cytometric analysis for quality assurance. Classical biophotonic methods for AS diagnosis are summarized. Phenotyping of monocytes and macrophages are discussed for specific subset labelling by nanomaterials, as well as existing studies and first experimental proofs of concept for the novel approach are shown.

In vitro and in vivo detection of NP loaded macrophages (MΦ). Different ways of MΦ labelling include (1) in vitro labelling in suspension (whole blood or buffy coat) or (2) labelling of short‐term MΦ cultures with re‐injection of MΦ‐NP into the animal to detect migration of the cells in the plaques and (3) in vivo injection of NP into the organism.

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In vitro and in vivo detection of NP loaded macrophages (MΦ). Different ways of MΦ labelling include (1) in vitro labelling in suspension (whole blood or buffy coat) or (2) labelling of short‐term MΦ cultures with re‐injection of MΦ‐NP into the animal to detect migration of the cells in the plaques and (3) in vivo injection of NP into the organism.
Improved detectability of microcirculatory dynamics by laser speckle flowmetry
Authors: Postnov Dmitry D. , Sosnovtseva Olga , Tuchin Valery V.
Published: June 2015

Mechanisms of renal autoregulation generate oscillations in arterial blood flow at several characteristic frequencies. Full‐field laser speckle flowmetry provides a real‐time imaging of superficial blood microcirculation. The possibility to detect changes in oscillatory dynamics is an important issue in biomedical applications. In this paper we show how laser power density affects quality of the recorded signal and improves detectability of temporal changes in microvascular perfusion.

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Amelioration of Osteoporosis and Hypovitaminosis D by Sunlight Exposure in Hospitalized Elderly Women With Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sato Yoshihiro , Iwamoto Jun , Kanoko Tomohiro , Satoh Kei
Published: June 2015

The JBMR editors express a note of concern that a substantial amount of the text of Sato et al., Amelioration of Osteoporosis and Hypovitaminosis D by Sunlight Exposure in Hospitalized Elderly Women With Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Bone Miner Res. 2005;20(8): 1327–1333 (DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.050402) is duplicated in Sato et al., Amelioration of osteoporosis and hypovitaminosis D by sunlight exposure in Parkinson's disease (Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2011;17(1):22-26 (DOI:10.1016/j.parkreldis.2010.10.008).

The JBMR editors are reviewing this matter and will inform readers as soon as the review is completed.
Performance evaluation of magnetic anion exchange resin removing fluoride
Authors: Li Qiang , Wang Baijun , Li Wentao , Wang Cheng , Zhou Qing , Shuang Chendong , Li Aimin
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Fluoride above a permissible level in drinking water has serious health effects on human beings. In this study, magnetic anion exchange resin, NDMP, was used to remove fluoride under different conditions and its defluoridation performance was compared with that of commercial D201 resin.

RESULTS

NDMP had favourable adsorption capacity for fluoride at pH 5.0 to 9.0. Coexisting anions generated competition adsorption towards fluoride and the different competition influence ordering followed the sequence SO42− > Cl− > NO3− > HCO3−. The existence of HA did not have a negative effect on fluoride adsorption under 40 mg L−1 of HA solution. The pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model fitted better for fluoride adsorption by both resins. The adsorption process was fitted better by the Langmuir model with a maximum fluoride adsorption capacity (13.5 mg g−1), indicating that the interaction between fluoride and NDMP resin was a homogeneous process. The negative values of ΔG° and ΔH° revealed that the adsorption was a spontaneous and exothermic reaction. Regenerated NDMP recovers adsorption performance without any loss.

CONCLUSIONS

High adsorption and regeneration performance suggest that NDMP can be used as an effective and reusable defluoridation adsorbent. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
HBsAg spontaneous seroclearance in a cohort of HBeAg‐seronegative patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Han Zhen‐Ge , Qie Zhong‐Hong , Qiao Wei‐Zhen
Published: June 2015

Loss of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is considered to reflect the resolution of a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Patient characteristics and various seromarkers were evaluated to characterize factors predicting spontaneous HBsAg loss in a cohort of HBeAg‐seronegative patients with presumed chronic HBV infection. Relationships between seromarkers and HBsAg loss were assessed annually and after 6 years using binary logistic regression. Among the 634 participants, 117 (18.45%) cleared HBsAg after 6 years, with a 3.08% annual seroclearance rate. Baseline HBsAg levels and platelet (PLT) counts were predictors of HBsAg seroclearance. The HBsAg level predicted HBsAg seroclearance better than the PLT count (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC): HBsAg, 0.965 (95%CI, 0.947–0.980) versus PLT count, 0.617 (95%CI, 0.561–0.669); P < 0.001). A cutoff HBsAg level of 10 IU/ml at baseline predicted spontaneous HBsAg seroclearance at 6 years with a diagnostic accuracy of 93.4%, a sensitivity of 87.2%, a specificity of 94.8%, a positive predictive value of 79.1%, and a negative predictive value of 97.0%. HBsAg seroclearance may occur more commonly than expected. A serum HBsAg level <10 IU/ml and PLT count were accurate predictors of clearance. J. Med. Virol. 88:79–85, 2016. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Medical Virology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of egg freshness on texture and baking characteristics of batter systems formulated using egg, flour and sugar
Authors: Xing Liting , Niu Fuge , Su Yujie , Yang Yanjun
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of egg freshness on baking properties and final qualities in batter systems. Batters were made with eggs of different freshness, and the properties of batter systems were studied through rheological analysis, rapid viscosity analysis (RVA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), batter density and expansion rate during the baking and cooling processes. Moreover, the qualities of final baked systems were investigated, including specific volume and texture profile analysis (TPA).

RESULTS

The flow behavior of batters showed that the consistency index (K) decreased as the Haugh unit (HU) value decreased, while the flow behavior index (n) increased. Both the storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″) determined by mechanical spectra at 20 °C decreased with decreasing HU. RVA and DSC determinations revealed that lower‐HU samples had a lower viscosity in the baking process and a shorter time for starch gelatinization and egg protein denaturation. Observation of the batter density revealed an increasing change, which was reflected by a decrease in the specific volume of final models. TPA showed significant differences in hardness and chewiness, but no significant differences in springiness and cohesiveness were found.

CONCLUSION

The egg freshness affected the properties of batter systems. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of different drying methods on the physical properties, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of raspberry powders
Authors: Si Xu , Chen Qinqin , Bi Jinfeng , Wu Xinye , Yi Jianyong , Zhou Linyan , Li Zhaolu
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Dehydration has been considered as one of the traditional but most effective techniques for perishable fruits. Raspberry powders obtained after dehydration can be added as ingredients into food formulations such as bakery and dairy products. In this study, raspberry powders obtained by hot air drying (HAD), infrared radiation drying (IRD), hot air and explosion puffing drying (HA‐EPD), infrared radiation and microwave vacuum drying (IR‐MVD) and freeze drying (FD) were compared on physical properties, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity.

RESULTS

Drying techniques affected the physical properties, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of raspberry powders greatly. FD led to significantly higher (P < 0.05) values of water solubility (45.26%), soluble solid (63.46%), hygroscopicity (18.06%), color parameters and anthocyanin retention (60.70%) of raspberry powder compared with other drying methods. However, thermal drying techniques, especially combined drying methods, were superior to FD in final total polyphenol content, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. The combined drying methods, especially IR‐MVD, showed the highest total polyphenol content (123.22 g GAE kg−1 dw) and total flavonoid content (0.30 g CAE kg−1 dw). Additionally, IR‐MVD performed better in antioxidant activity retention.

CONCLUSION

Overall, combined drying methods, especially IR‐MVD, were found to result in better quality of raspberry powders among the thermal drying techniques. IR‐MVD could be recommended for use in the drying industry because of its advantages in time saving and nutrient retention. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Modified Importance–Performance Analysis for Evaluating Tourism Businesses Strategies: Comparison of Slovenia and Serbia
Authors: Dwyer Larry , Armenski Tanja , Cvelbar Ljubica Knežević , Dragićević Vanja , Mihalic Tanja
Published: June 2015

A modified nine‐quadrant importance–performance analysis is employed to assess the importance which Slovenian and Serbian tourism industry stakeholders attach to 48 nominated strategic activities to promote business and destination competitiveness. An important finding is that respondents in each country allocated the bulk of activities to the ‘keep up the good work’ strategy. In both destinations, this strategy was dominated by activities related to product development and innovation. The paper concludes with a discussion of how the identified priority activities require close examination to determine their ‘enabling conditions’ and the implications of an action based on them. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐transmission dielectric metasurface with 2π phase control at visible wavelengths
Authors: Yu Ye Feng , Zhu Alexander Y. , Paniagua‐Domínguez Ramón , Fu Yuan Hsing , Luk'yanchuk Boris , Kuznetsov Arseniy I.
Published: June 2015

Recently, metasurfaces have received increasing attention due to their ability to locally manipulate the amplitude, phase and polarization of light with high spatial resolution. Transmissive metasurfaces based on high‐index dielectric materials are particularly interesting due to the low intrinsic losses and compatibility with standard industrial processes. Here, it is demonstrated numerically and experimentally that a uniform array of silicon nanodisks can exhibit close‐to‐unity transmission at resonance in the visible spectrum. A single‐layer gradient metasurface utilizing this concept is shown to achieve around 45% transmission into the desired order. These values represent an improvement over existing state‐of‐the‐art, and are the result of simultaneous excitation and mutual interference of magnetic and electric‐dipole resonances in the nanodisks, which enables directional forward scattering with a broad bandwidth. Due to CMOS compatibility and the relative ease of fabrication, this approach is promising for creation of novel flat optical devices.

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Condensed Low‐Volatile Alcohol Droplet‐Directed Uniform Pore Formation on Polystyrene Films
Authors: Wang Zheng‐Hui , Cheng Wei , Liu Cai‐Hong , Ma Jun , Li Ji
Published: June 2015

In this work, various polystyrene (PS) films with uniform pores (0.18–1.26 μm in size) are prepared through spin‐casting polymer solutions consisting of PS, dichloromethane (CH2Cl2), and different low‐volatile alcohols (propylene glycol, diglycol, triglycol, polyethylene glycol‐200, ‐400, and ‐600). It is proposed that the formation of these uniform pores is directed by the condensed low‐volatile alcohol droplets formed during the solvent evaporation; relevant evidences are provided. Five different indexes are defined to help reveal the mechanisms of the effects of PS content and alcohol property on the aggregation tendency of the alcohol molecules and on the growth of the alcohol droplets, and thus on the pore size.

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The calculus of corruption: a paradox of ‘strong’ corruption amidst ‘strong’ systems and institutions in developing administrative systems
Authors: Yeboah‐Assiamah Emmanuel , Alesu‐Dordzi Samuel
Published: June 2015

Without the right political will to battle corruption, systems and institutions are put in place and tend to be façade and window dressing. Ghana, especially, in the new millennium has seen the proliferation of various institutions ostensibly to curb the phenomenon of corruption, yet its impact has only been marginal. This study adopts two models of corruption to critically assess the institutional development of Ghana since the Fourth Republican Dispensation and how these institutions have impacted the fight against corruption. The study adopts mainly secondary data and resources from the 1992 Republican Constitution, Acts of Parliaments and Legislative Instruments relevant corruption combat. An analysis of the corruption perception index of Ghana from 2000 to 2014 and other data portrays poor performance. What accounts for this phenomenon? Are there really demons who obstruct the spirit and letter of the institutions? Are the systems weak or the human elements (demons) rather stronger in adapting and outsmarting the institutions? Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AMPKα2 reduces renal epithelial transdifferentiation and inflammation after injury through interaction with CK2β
Authors: Qiu Shulan , Xiao Zhicheng , Piao Chunmei , Zhang Jing , Dong Yanjun , Cui Wei , Liu Xin , Zhang Youyi , Du Jie
Published: June 2015

TGFβ1/Smad, Wnt/β‐catenin and snail1 are preferentially activated in renal tubular epithelia after injury, leading to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). The stress response is coupled to EMT and kidney injury; however, the underlying mechanism of the stress response in EMT remains elusive. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling is responsive to stress and regulates cell energy balance and differentiation. We found that knockdown of AMPKα, especially AMPKα2, enhanced EMT by up‐regulating β‐catenin and Smad3 in vitro. AMPKα2 deficiency enhanced EMT and fibrosis in a murine unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) model. AMPKα2 deficiency also increased the expression of chemokines KC and MCP‐1, along with enhanced infiltration of inflammatory cells into the kidney after UUO. CK2β interacted physically with AMPKα and enhanced AMPKα Thr172 phosphorylation and its catalytic activity. Thus, activated AMPKα signalling suppresses EMT and secretion of chemokines in renal tubular epithelia through interaction with CK2β to attenuate renal injury. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The lifestyle of prokaryotic organisms influences the repertoire of promiscuous enzymes
Authors: Martínez‐Núñez Mario Alberto , Rodríguez‐Vázquez Katya , Pérez‐Rueda Ernesto
Published: June 2015

The metabolism of microbial organisms and its diversity are partly the result of an adaptation process to the characteristics of the environments that they inhabit. In this work, we analyze the influence of lifestyle on the content of promiscuous enzymes in 761 nonredundant bacterial and archaeal genomes. Promiscuous enzymes were defined as those proteins whose catalytic activities are defined by two or more different Enzyme Commission (E.C.) numbers. The genomes analyzed were categorized into four lifestyles for their exhaustive comparisons: free‐living, extremophiles, pathogens, and intracellular. From these analyses we found that free‐living organisms have larger genomes and an enrichment of promiscuous enzymes. In contrast, intracellular organisms showed smaller genomes and the lesser proportion of promiscuous enzymes. On the basis of our data, we show that the proportion of promiscuous enzymes in an organism is mainly influenced by the lifestyle, where fluctuating environments promote its emergence. Finally, we evidenced that duplication processes occur preferentially in metabolism of free‐living and extremophiles species. Proteins 2015; 83:1625–1631. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epitaxial single‐crystal of GaSe epilayers grown on a c‐sapphire substrate by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Wu Chia‐Hsin , Yang Chu‐Shou , Wang Yen‐Chi , Huang Hsi‐Jung , Ho Yen‐Teng , Wei Lin‐Lung , Chang Edward Yi
Published: June 2015

In this study, hetero‐epitaxy of GaSe epilayers on a c‐sapphire substrate achieved using molecular beam epitaxy was demonstrated. The GaSe epitaxial growth was monitored using in situ reflection high‐energy electron diffraction (RHEED). Streak RHEED patterns showed a flat and highly crystalline situation. Furthermore, two RHEED patterns were observed after 15 min of growth, and they were correlated with the m‐axis and a‐axis of hexagonal GaSe. The single crystal of GaSe was verified using X‐ray diffraction and high‐resolution cross‐section transmission electron microscopy. The full width at half‐maximum of (0002) in the XRD rocking‐curve spectrum of GaSe epilayer is obtain around 207 arcsec, which is the smallest value observed to date. The epitaxial growth of GaSe demonstrated the feasibility of growing large‐area epilayers.
Dose finding with longitudinal data: simpler models, richer outcomes
Authors: Paoletti Xavier , Doussau Adélaïde , Ezzalfani Monia , Rizzo Elisa , Thiébaut Rodolphe
Published: June 2015

Phase I oncology clinical trials are designed to identify the optimal dose that will be recommended for phase II trials. This dose is typically defined as the dose associated with a certain probability of severe toxicity at cycle 1, although toxicity is repeatedly measured over cycles on an ordinal scale. Recently, a proportional odds mixed‐effect model for ordinal outcomes has been proposed to (i) identify the optimal dose accounting for repeated events and (ii) to provide some framework to explore time trend. We compare this approach to a method based on repeated binary variables and to a method based on an under‐parameterized model of the dose–time toxicity relationship. We show that repeated binary and ordinal outcomes both improve the accuracy of dose‐finding trials in the same proportion; ordinal outcomes are, however, superior to detect time trend even in the presence of nonproportional odds models. Moreover, less parameterized models led to the best operating characteristics. These approaches are illustrated on two dose‐finding phase I trials. Integration of repeated measurements is appealing in phase I dose‐finding trials. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiplicity in confirmatory clinical trials: a case study with discussion from a JSM panel
Authors: Wang Sue‐Jane , Bretz Frank , Dmitrienko Alex , Hsu Jason , Hung H. M. James , Koch Gary , Maurer Willi , Offen Walt , O'Neill Robert
Published: June 2015

An invited panel session was conducted in the 2012 Joint Statistical Meetings, San Diego, California, USA, to stimulate the discussion on multiplicity issues in confirmatory clinical trials for drug development. A total of 11 expert panel members were invited and 9 participated. Prior to the session, a case study was previously provided to the panel members to facilitate the discussion, focusing on the key components of the study design and multiplicity. The Phase 3 development program for this new experimental treatment was based on a single randomized controlled trial alone. Each panelist was asked to clarify if he or she responded as if he or she were a pharmaceutical drug sponsor, an academic panelist or a health regulatory scientist. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of the fate of micropollutants in wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Margot Jonas , Rossi Luca , Barry David A. , Holliger Christof
Published: June 2015

Municipal wastewaters are contaminated by a wide range of chemicals, from surfactants to heavy metals, including pharmaceutical residues, personal care products, various household chemicals, and biocides/pesticides. Their release into the environment, where they may generate adverse effects on aquatic organisms, depends on their fate in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The sources, the typical concentrations and the fate of more than 160 micropollutants of various classes in conventional WWTPs, were investigated in order to estimate surface water contamination, risks for aquatic organisms, and to propose means to reduce their release into the environment. Relatively hydrophobic pollutants such as heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), brominated flame retardants, and several personal care products (PCPs), as well as easily biodegradable pollutants such as surfactants, plastic additives, hormones, several PCPs, some pharmaceuticals, and household chemicals, are usually well removed (>70%) in WWTPs, either by sorption onto sewage sludge or by biodegradation. Good removal efficiencies, however, do not mean that the effluent concentrations will not potentially affect aquatic life, as some of these compounds are toxic at very low concentrations. More hydrophilic and poorly‐to‐moderately biodegradable pollutants such as several pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and household chemicals (corrosion inhibitors, sweeteners, chelating agents, phosphorus flame retardants) are only poorly removed during treatments. To decrease their discharge into surface waters, source control combined to advanced treatments such as ozonation and adsorption onto activated carbon are necessary.

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Engineering Water > Water, Health, and Sanitation

Science of Water > Water Quality
From Occupied Voids to Nanoprecipitates: Synthesis of Skutterudite Nanocomposites in situ
Authors: Eilertsen James , Surace Yuri , Balog Sandor , Sagarna Leyre , Rogl Gerda , Horky Jelena , Trottmann Matthias , Rogl Peter , Subramanian M. A. , Weidenkaff Anke
Published: June 2015

Nanocomposite thermoelectrics can exhibit both reduced thermal conductivity and enhanced electrical conductivity beyond single‐phase materials; accordingly, they have become the new material paradigm to achieve viable thermoelectric efficiencies. New synthesis techniques are needed to further enhance their properties. A novel technique, designed to synthesize nanoprecipitates within a well‐sintered single‐phase polycrystalline matrix, is reported. The technique, attrition‐enhanced nanocomposite synthesis (AENS), comprises three stages: (1) Synthesis of cage‐like crystal structures with metastable interstitials, followed by (2) severe plastic deformation (SPD), and finally (3) rapid sintering with concomitant interstitial precipitation. The efficacy of this technique is demonstrated in this work. Filled cage‐like skutterudite In0.2Co4Sb12 samples are synthesized and spark‐plasma sintered. They are subjected to severe plastic deformation via high‐pressure torsion, and finally sintered again via spark‐plasma sintering in order to precipitate the metastable interstitials. X‐ray diffraction, scanning‐electron microscopy, and small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) of In0.2Co4Sb12 samples subjected to this procedure demonstrate that indium precipitates rapidly, and forms nano‐sized In‐based inclusions. In addition, the amount of precipitated indium, and the size and distribution of the nanoprecipitates are strongly influenced by the extent of plastic deformation. This technique can be employed to synthesize efficient thermoelectrics as well as materials with a number of applications requiring rapid synthesis of nano‐sized precipitates.
Deformations near an elliptical hole with surface effect in a laminated anisotropic thin plate
Authors: Wang Xu , Schiavone Peter
Published: June 2015

This work is concerned with the coupled stretching and bending deformation around an elliptical hole with surface energy in a laminated and inhomogeneous anisotropic elastic thin plate within the context of the Kirchhoff theory. A closed‐form full‐field solution is derived by using the octet formalism recently developed by Cheng and Reddy (2002, 2003, 2004, 2005) and by incorporating a simplified version of the surface elasticity model. In particular, explicit real‐form expressions of the hoop membrane stress resultant, hoop bending moment, in‐plane displacements and slopes on the mid‐plane along the edge of the elliptical hole are obtained.