bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of downstream high‐speed jets by a rippled nonstationary quasi‐parallel shock: 2‐D hybrid simulations
Authors: Hao Y. , Lembege B. , Lu Q. , Guo F.
Published: February 2016

Experimental observations from space missions (including more recently Cluster and Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms data) have clearly revealed the existence of high‐speed jets (HSJs) in the downstream region of the quasi‐parallel terrestrial bow shock. Presently, two‐dimensional hybrid simulations are performed in order to investigate the formation of such HSJs through a rippled quasi‐parallel shock front. The simulation results show that (i) such shock fronts are strongly nonstationary along the shock normal, and (ii) ripples are evidenced along the shock front as the upstream ULF waves (excited by interaction between incident and reflected ions) are convected back to the front by the solar wind and contribute to the rippling formation. Then, these ripples are inherent structures of a quasi‐parallel shock. As a consequence, new incident solar wind ions interact differently at different locations along the shock surface, and the ion bulk velocity strongly differs locally as ions are transmitted downstream. Preliminary results show that (i) local bursty patterns of turbulent magnetic field may form within the rippled front and play the role of local secondary shock; (ii) some incident ion flows penetrate the front, suffer some deflection (instead of being decelerated) at the locations of these secondary shocks, and are at the origin of well‐structured (filamentary) HSJs downstream; and (iii) the spatial scales of HSJs are in a good agreement with experimental observations. Such downstream HSJs are shown to be generated by local curvature effects (front rippling) and the nonstationarity of the shock front itself.
Clinical delineation of the PACS1‐related syndrome—Report on 19 patients
Authors: Schuurs‐Hoeijmakers Janneke H. M. , Landsverk Megan L. , Foulds Nicola , Kukolich Mary K. , Gavrilova Ralitza H. , Greville‐Heygate Stephanie , Hanson‐Kahn Andrea , Bernstein Jonathan A. , Glass Jennifer , Chitayat David , Burrow Thomas A. , Husami Ammar , Collins Kathleen , Wusik Katie , van der Aa Nathalie , Kooy Frank , Brown Kate Tatton , Gadzicki Dorothea , Kini Usha , Alvarez Sara , Fernández‐Jaén Alberto , McGehee Frank , Selby Katherine , Tarailo‐Graovac Maja , Van Allen Margot , van Karnebeek Clara D. M. , Stavropoulos Dimitri J. , Marshall Christian R. , Merico Daniele , Gregor Anne , Zweier Christiane , Hopkin Robert J. , Chu Yoyo Wing‐Yiu , Chung Brian Hon‐Yin , de Vries Bert B. A. , Devriendt Koenraad , Hurles Matthew E. , Brunner Han G. ,   DDD study
Published: February 2016

We report on 19 individuals with a recurrent de novo c.607C>T mutation in PACS1. This specific mutation gives rise to a recognizable intellectual disability syndrome. There is a distinctive facial appearance (19/19), characterized by full and arched eyebrows, hypertelorism with downslanting palpebral fissures, long eye lashes, ptosis, low set and simple ears, bulbous nasal tip, wide mouth with downturned corners and a thin upper lip with an unusual “wavy” profile, flat philtrum, and diastema of the teeth. Intellectual disability, ranging from mild to moderate, was present in all. Hypotonia is common in infancy (8/19). Seizures are frequent (12/19) and respond well to anticonvulsive medication. Structural malformations are common, including heart (10/19), brain (12/16), eye (10/19), kidney (3/19), and cryptorchidism (6/12 males). Feeding dysfunction is presenting in infancy with failure to thrive (5/19), gastroesophageal reflux (6/19), and gastrostomy tube placement (4/19). There is persistence of oral motor dysfunction. We provide suggestions for clinical work‐up and management and hope that the present study will facilitate clinical recognition of further cases. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical Report: Cognitive decline in a patient with Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome
Authors: Cabrera Sergio , Morel Chantal , Tartaglia Maria Carmela
Published: February 2016

Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome (CFCS) is a rare genetic syndrome caused by mutations in one of four genes: BRAF, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, and KRAS. There is tremendous phenotypic heterogeneity in patients with CFCS and so confirmation of diagnosis requires genetic testing. Neurologic and/or cognitive symptoms are present in almost all CFCS individuals. Little is known about cognitive function in older patients with CFCS. In this report, we present the cognitive, neuropsychiatric, and imaging findings of a patient diagnosed with CFCS who after having remained stable developed progressive cognitive/behavioral and motor decline. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhancing genomic laboratory reports: A qualitative analysis of provider review
Authors: Williams Janet L. , Rahm Alanna Kulchak , Stuckey Heather , Green Jamie , Feldman Lynn , Zallen Doris T. , Bonhag Michele , Segal Michael M. , Fan Audrey L. , Williams Marc S.
Published: February 2016

This study reports on the responses of physicians who reviewed provider and patient versions of a genomic laboratory report designed to communicate results of whole genome sequencing. Semi‐structured interviews addressed concept communication, elements, and format of example genome reports. Analysis of the coded transcripts resulted in recognition of three constructs around communication of genome sequencing results: (1) Providers agreed that whole genomic sequencing results are complex and they welcomed a report that provided supportive interpretation information to accompany sequencing results; (2) Providers strongly endorsed a report that included active clinical guidance, such as reference to practice guidelines, if available; and (3) Providers valued the genomic report as a resource that would serve as the basis to facilitate communication of genome sequencing results with their patients and families. Providers valued both versions of the report, though they affirmed the need for a provider‐oriented report. Critical elements of the report included clear language to explain the result, as well as consolidated yet comprehensive prognostic information with clear guidance over time for the clinical care of the patient. Most importantly, it appears a report with this design has the potential not only to return results but also serves as a communication tool to help providers and patients discuss and coordinate care over time. © 2016 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Enantioenriched Indolines by a Conjugate Addition/Asymmetric Protonation/Aza‐Prins Cascade Reaction
Authors: Daniels Blake E. , Ni Jane , Reisman Sarah E.
Published: February 2016

A conjugate addition/asymmetric protonation/aza‐Prins cascade reaction has been developed for the enantioselective synthesis of fused polycyclic indolines. A catalyst system generated from ZrCl4 and 3,3′‐dibromo‐BINOL enables the synthesis of a range of polycyclic indolines in good yields and with high enantioselectivity. A key finding is the use of TMSCl and 2,6‐dibromophenol as a stoichiometric source of HCl to facilitate catalyst turnover. This transformation is the first in which a ZrCl4⋅BINOL complex serves as a chiral Lewis‐acid‐assisted Brønsted acid.
Electronic Characterization of Reaction Intermediates: The Fluorenylium, Phenalenylium, and Benz[f]indenylium Cations and Their Radicals
Authors: Fulara Jan , Chakraborty Arghya , Maier John P.
Published: February 2016

Three vibrationally resolved absorption systems commencing at 538, 518, and 392 nm were detected in a 6 K neon matrix after mass‐selected deposition of C13H9+ ions (m/z=165) produced from fluorene in a hot‐cathode discharge ion source. The benz[f]indenylium (BfI+: 538 nm), fluorenylium (FL9+: 518 nm), and phenalenylium (PHL+: 392 nm) cations are the absorbing molecules. Two electronic systems corresponding to neutral species are apparent at 490 and 546 nm after irradiation of the matrix with λ<260 nm photons and were assigned to the FL9 and BfI radicals, respectively. The strongest peak at 518 nm is the origin of the 2 1B2←X̃ 1A1 absorption of FL9+, and the 490 nm band is the 2 2A2←X̃ 2B1 origin of FL9. The electronic systems commencing at 538 nm and 546 nm were assigned to the 1 1A1←X̃ 1A1 and 1 2A2←X̃ 2A2 transitions of BfI+ and BfI. The 392 nm band is the 1 1E′←X̃ 1A1′ transition of PHL+. The electronic spectra of C13H9+/C13H9 were assigned on the basis of the vertical excitation energies calculated with SAC‐CI and MS‐CASPT2 methods.
Boosted Charge Transfer in SnS/SnO2 Heterostructures: Toward High Rate Capability for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Yang , Zhou Tengfei , Zhang Chaofeng , Mao Jianfeng , Liu Huakun , Guo Zaiping
Published: February 2016

Constructing heterostructures can endow materials with fascinating performance in high‐speed electronics, optoelectronics, and other applications owing to the built‐in charge‐transfer driving force, which is of benefit to the specific charge‐transfer kinetics. Rational design and controllable synthesis of nano‐heterostructure anode materials with high‐rate performance, however, still remains a great challenge. Herein, ultrafine SnS/SnO2 heterostructures were successfully fabricated and showed enhanced charge‐transfer capability. The mobility enhancement is attributed to the interface effect of heterostructures, which induces an electric field within the nanocrystals, giving them much lower ion‐diffusion resistance and facilitating interfacial electron transport.
Catalytic SN2′‐ and Enantioselective Allylic Substitution with a Diborylmethane Reagent and Application in Synthesis
Authors: Shi Ying , Hoveyda Amir H.
Published: February 2016

A catalytic method for the site‐ and enantioselective addition of commercially available di‐B(pin)‐methane to allylic phosphates is introduced (pin=pinacolato). Transformations may be facilitated by an NHC–Cu complex (NHC=N‐heterocyclic carbene) and products obtained in 63–95 % yield, 88:12 to >98:2 SN2′/SN2 selectivity, and 85:15–99:1 enantiomeric ratio. The utility of the approach, entailing the involvement of different catalytic cross‐coupling processes, is highlighted by its application to the formal synthesis of the cytotoxic natural product rhopaloic acid A.
Developing a mathematical model for the oxidative dehydrogenation of propane in a fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Torabi Ali , Kazemeini Mohammad , Fattahi Moslem
Published: February 2016

In this research, a mathematical model to simulate a two‐phase fluidized bed reactor for oxidative dehydrogenation of propane to propylene was developed. The developed model was solved numerically using the matlab software. Moreover, effects of the reaction temperature, operating pressure, feed composition, particle's size and gas superficial velocity on the reactant conversion, product selectivity and desired product's yield were understudied. The model was validated using previously published experimental data for simulation of the case at the exit of the circulating fluidized bed reactor. The results revealed that, as the temperature raised from 783 to 823 K, the propane conversion enhanced from 4.47% to 13.01%, while the propylene selectivity lowered from 85.35% to 68.03%. In addition, it was shown that doubling of the propane concentration increased the propane conversion from 4.47% to 4.73%. On one hand, doubling of the oxygen concentration enhanced the propane conversion from 4.41% to 4.47%, while on the other, tripling of the pressure led to increasing of the propane conversion from 4.47% to 5.54%. Nonetheless, this pressure enhancement lowered the propylene selectivity from 85.35% to 77.90%. Moreover, changing of the particle's type from Geldart A to B resulted in decreasing of the propane conversion from 4.56% to 1.40% and increasing of the propylene selectivity from 84.83% to 89.69%. The model further revealed that effect of the superficial velocity was not very significant. Ultimately, to predict the maximum propylene selectivity, different kinetic expressions were understudied. © 2016 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical properties and intermolecular interaction of eutectic solvents binary mixtures: reline and ethaline
Authors: Mjalli Farouq S. , Ahmed Omar Umar
Published: February 2016

Despite the potentials of deep eutectic solvent (DES) for application in variety of fields, the perfect DES with the exact desired properties is hard to come by. This is due to lack of understanding of their exact nature, which would allow for appropriate choice of the DES constituents to obtain the desired properties. One way DES properties can be fine‐tuned to a specific application is via mixing with another DES. This does not only allow for the formation of task specific solvent but also presents us with the opportunity of studying intermolecular forces of attraction via a macroscopic thermodynamic property (excess molar volume). In this work, the DES mixture Reline–Ethaline was synthesized at different molar fractions of Ethaline. The excess molar volume of this system was evaluated, and its effect on the physical properties of DES mixture was discussed. The physical properties measured were molar volume, viscosity, conductivity, refractive index and pH at different molar fractions of Ethaline (0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 0.9), and temperatures (20–80 °C). © 2016 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On Joint Control of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning and Natural Ventilation in a Meeting Room for Energy Saving
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Jia Qing‐Shan , Xu Zhanbo , Zhang Beibei , Guan Xiaohong
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we consider the optimal joint control of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and natural ventilation during the start‐up period of these systems in a meeting room. The joint control policy could reduce the total energy consumption in the building, but the optimal policy could be complex and difficult to implement in practice. In order to address this dilemma, we make the following major contributions. First, we theoretically show that the optimal control policy of heating, ventilation and air conditioning can be well approximated by the threshold policies after natural ventilation is applied; the optimal control policy of natural ventilation can be greatly approximated by the threshold policy, when the indoor air temperature as a function of time has monotonicity after the heating, ventilation and air conditioning policy is applied. Furthermore, we establish a rule‐based law framework for the policy approximation of joint control of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and natural ventilation. Second, we propose the thresholds estimation framework for the policy approximation of fan coil unit, fresh air unit, and natural ventilation respectively, based on the dynamic of the outdoor air temperature, the indoor base air temperature, and the indoor air temperature after the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning policy is applied. Finally, we compare the performance loss, the indoor comfort violation rate, and computational complexity under the approximated policy with those under the dynamic programming, the optimized artificial neural network method, [24–26], and the small sampling and machine learning method [27]. Numerical testing results show that our method saves the computing time dramatically with no effect on the comfort of occupants and little performance degradation.
Simultaneous Design of Parallel Distributed Output Feedback and Anti‐windup Compensators for Constrained Takagi‐Sugeno Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Nguyen Anh‐Tu , Dambrine Michel , Lauber Jimmy
Published: February 2016

This paper is devoted to developing a novel approach to deal with constrained continuous‐time nonlinear systems in the form of Takagi‐Sugeno fuzzy models. Here, the disturbed systems are subject to both input and state constraints. The one‐step design method is used to simultaneously synthesize the dynamic output feedback controller and its anti‐windup strategy. A parameter‐dependent version of the generalized sector condition is used together with Lyapunov stability theory to derive linear matrix inequality design conditions. Based on this result and for different design specifications, the synthesis of an anti‐windup based dynamic output feedback controller is expressed on the form of convex optimization problems. A physically motivated example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
How do carbon cycle uncertainties affect IPCC temperature projections?
Authors: Bodman Roger W. , Rayner Peter J. , Jones Roger N.
Published: February 2016

Carbon cycle uncertainties associated with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change temperature‐change projections were treated differently between the Fourth and Fifth Assessment Reports as the latter focused on concentration‐ rather than emission‐driven experiments. Carbon cycle feedbacks then relate to the emissions consistent with a particular concentration. A valuable alternative is to include all uncertainties in a single step from emissions to temperatures. We use a simple climate model with an observationally constrained parameter distribution to explore the carbon cycle and temperature‐change projections, simulating the emission‐driven Representative Concentration Pathways. The resulting range of uncertainty is a somewhat wider and asymmetric likely range (biased high).
Mortality from trauma haemorrhage and opportunities for improvement in transfusion practice
Authors: Stanworth S J , Davenport R , Curry N , Seeney F , Eaglestone S , Edwards A , Martin K , Allard S , Woodford M , Lecky F E , Brohi K
Published: February 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence, patterns of blood use and outcomes of major haemorrhage in trauma.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study from 22 hospitals in the UK, including both major trauma centres and smaller trauma units. Eligible patients received at least 4 units of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in the first 24 h of admission with activation of the massive haemorrhage protocol. Case notes, transfusion charts, blood bank records and copies of prescription/theatre charts were accessed and reviewed centrally. Study outcomes were: use of blood components, critical care during hospital stay, and mortality at 24 h, 30 days and 1 year. Data were used to estimate the national trauma haemorrhage incidence.

Results

A total of 442 patients were identified during a median enrolment interval of 20 (range 7–24) months. Based on this, the national incidence of trauma haemorrhage was estimated to be 83 per million. The median age of patients in the study cohort was 38 years and 73·8 per cent were men. The incidence of major haemorrhage increased markedly in patients aged over 65 years. Thirty-six deaths within 24 h of admission occurred within the first 3 h. At 24 h, 79 patients (17·9 per cent) had died, but mortality continued to rise even after discharge. Patients who received a cumulative ratio of fresh frozen plasma to PRBCs of at least 1 : 2 had lower rates of death than those who received a lower ratio. There were delays in administration of blood. Platelets and cryoprecipitate were either not given, or transfused well after initial resuscitation.

Conclusion

There is a high burden of trauma haemorrhage that affects all age groups. Research is required to understand the reasons for death after the first 24 h and barriers to timely transfusion support.
Waste Livelihoods Amongst the Poor – Through the Lens of Bricolage
Authors: Holt Diane , Littlewood David
Published: February 2016

This paper examines two social enterprises and 25+ informal economy micro‐entrepreneurs in Kenya who utilize waste materials to generate income, considered through the conceptual lens of bricolage. Waste materials can all be considered as sources of free or discounted materials that in resource‐constrained and poor communities might be leveraged to generate income in the absence of employment. This paper explores three key themes that emerge from the research findings, namely the various strategic dimensions of the cases, the networks and social capital they leverage and how these livelihood models relate to various dimensions of bricolage such as improvisation, making do and the process of ‘fiddling’ or recombining resources. The findings also suggest that differing waste livelihoods have different rates of return, or profitability, and differing input requirements of capital, skills and knowledge. The paper also stresses the role of boundary spanning organizations such as NGOs and hybrid/social enterprises. © 2016 The Authors. Business Strategy and the Environment published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Influence of Inert and Oxidizing Atmospheres on the Physical and Optical Properties of Luminescent Carbon Dots Prepared through Pyrolysis of a Model Molecule
Authors: Machado Cláudia Emanuele , Tartuci Letícia Gazola , de Fátima Gorgulho Honória , de Oliveira Luiz Fernando Cappa , Bettini Jefferson , Pereira dos Santos Daniela , Ferrari Jefferson Luis , Schiavon Marco Antônio
Published: February 2016

This work used l‐tartaric acid as a model molecule to evaluate how the use of inert and oxidizing atmospheres during pyrolysis affected the physical and optical properties of the resulting carbon dots (CDs). Pyrolysis revealed to be a simple procedure that afforded CDs in a single step, dismissed the addition of organic solvents, and involved only one extraction stage that employed water. By X‐ray diffraction a dependency between the structure of the CDs and the atmosphere (oxidizing or inert) used during the pyrolysis was found. Potentiometric titration demonstrated that the CDs were largely soluble in water; it also aided characterization of the various groups that contained sp3‐hybridized carbon atoms on the surface of the dots. Raman spectroscopy suggested that different amounts of sp2‐ and sp3‐hybridized carbon atoms emerged on the CDs depending on the pyrolysis atmosphere. In conclusion, the pyrolysis atmosphere influenced the physical properties, such as the composition and the final structure.
Fe0 Nanomotors in Ton Quantities (1020 Units) for Environmental Remediation
Authors: Teo Wei Zhe , Zboril Radek , Medrik Ivo , Pumera Martin
Published: February 2016

Despite demonstrating potential for environmental remediation and biomedical applications, the practical environmental applications of autonomous self‐propelled micro‐/nanorobots have been limited by the inability to fabricate these devices in large (kilograms/tons) quantities. In view of the demand for large‐scale environmental remediation by micro‐/nanomotors, which are easily synthesized and powered by nontoxic fuel, we have developed bubble‐propelled Fe0 Janus nanomotors by a facile thermally induced solid‐state procedure and investigated their potential as decontamination agents of pollutants. These Fe0 Janus nanomotors, stabilized by an ultrathin iron oxide shell, were fuelled by their decomposition in citric acid, leading to the asymmetric bubble propulsion. The degradation of azo‐dyes was dramatically increased in the presence of moving self‐propelled Fe0 nanomotors, which acted as reducing agents. Such enhanced pollutant decomposition triggered by biocompatible Fe0 (nanoscale zero‐valent iron motors), which can be handled in the air and fabricated in ton quantities for low cost, will revolutionize the way that environmental remediation is carried out.
Pillar[5]arene‐Based Glycoclusters: Synthesis and Multivalent Binding to Pathogenic Bacterial Lectins
Authors: Buffet Kevin , Nierengarten Iwona , Galanos Nicolas , Gillon Emilie , Holler Michel , Imberty Anne , Matthews Susan E. , Vidal Sébastien , Vincent Stéphane P. , Nierengarten Jean‐François
Published: February 2016

The synthesis of pillar[5]arene‐based glycoclusters has been readily achieved by CuAAC conjugations of azido‐ and alkyne‐functionalized precursors. The lectin binding properties of the resulting glycosylated multivalent ligands have been studied by at least two complementary techniques to provide a good understanding. Three lectins were selected from bacterial pathogens based on their potential therapeutic applications as anti‐adhesives, namely LecA and LecB from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and BambL from Burkholderia ambifaria. As a general trend, multivalency improved the binding to lectins and a higher affinity can be obtained by increasing to a certain limit the length of the spacer arm between the carbohydrate subunits and the central macrocyclic core.
A Nitroxide‐Tagged Platinum(II) Complex Enables the Identification of a DNA G‐Quadruplex Binding Mode
Authors: Xu Cui‐Xia , Zhang Xiaojun , Zhou Yi‐Wei , Wang Hanqiang , Cao Qian , Shen Yong , Ji Liang‐Nian , Mao Zong‐Wan , Qin Peter Z.
Published: February 2016

We reported a novel strategy for investigating small molecule binding to G‐quadruplexes (GQs). A newly synthesized dinuclear platinum(II) complex (Pt2L) containing a nitroxide radical was shown to selectively bind a GQ‐forming sequence derived from human telomere (hTel). Using the nitroxide moiety as a spin label, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was carried out to investigate binding between Pt2L and hTel GQ. Measurements indicated that two molecules of Pt2L bind with one molecule of hTel GQ. The inter‐spin distance measured between the two bound Pt2L, together with molecular docking analyses, revealed that Pt2L predominately binds to the neighboring narrow and wide grooves of the G‐tetrads as hTel adopts the antiparallel conformation. The design and synthesis of nitroxide tagged GQ binders, and the use of spin‐labeling/EPR to investigate their interactions with GQs, will aid the development of small molecules for manipulating GQs involved in crucial biological processes.
Structural Re‐engineering of the α‐Helix Mimetic JY‐1‐106 into Small Molecules: Disruption of the Mcl‐1–Bak‐BH3 Protein–Protein Interaction with 2,6‐Di‐Substituted Nicotinates
Authors: Drennen Brandon , Scheenstra Jacob A. , Yap Jeremy L. , Chen Lijia , Lanning Maryanna E. , Roth Braden M. , Wilder Paul T. , Fletcher Steven
Published: February 2016

The disruption of aberrant protein–protein interactions (PPIs) with synthetic agents remains a challenging goal in contemporary medicinal chemistry but some progress has been made. One such dysregulated PPI is that between the anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 proteins, including myeloid cell leukemia‐1 (Mcl‐1), and the α‐helical Bcl‐2 homology‐3 (BH3) domains of its pro‐apoptotic counterparts, such as Bak. Herein, we describe the discovery of small‐molecule inhibitors of the Mcl‐1 oncoprotein based on a novel chemotype. Particularly, re‐engineering of our α‐helix mimetic JY‐1‐106 into 2,6‐di‐substituted nicotinates afforded inhibitors of comparable potencies but with significantly decreased molecular weights. The most potent inhibitor 2‐(benzyloxy)‐6‐(4‐chloro‐3,5‐dimethylphenoxy)nicotinic acid (1 r: Ki=2.90 μm) likely binds in the p2 pocket of Mcl‐1 and engages R263 in a salt bridge through its carboxylic acid, as supported by 2D 1H–15N HSQC NMR data. Significantly, inhibitors were easily accessed in just four steps, which will facilitate future optimization efforts.
Deciphering the Conformational Choreography of Zinc Coordination Complexes with Standard and Novel Proton NMR Techniques Combined with DFT Methods
Authors: Pucheta Jose Enrique Herbert , Prim Damien , Gillet Jean Michel , Farjon Jonathan
Published: February 2016

The presence of water has been shown to deeply impact the stability and geometry of Zn complexes in solution. Evidence for tetra‐ and penta‐coordinated species in a pyridylmethylamine–ZnII model complex is presented. Novel 1H NMR tools such as T1‐filtered selective exchange spectroscopy and pure shifted gradient‐encoded selective refocusing as well as classical 2D (1H–1H) exchange spectroscopy, diffusion‐ordered spectroscopy and T1(1H) measurements, in combination with density functional theory methods allow the full conformational dynamics of a pyridylmethylamine–ZnII complex to be revealed. Four conformers and two families of complexes depending on the hydration states are elucidated.
Efficacy of stem cells on the healing of peri‐implant defects: systematic review of preclinical studies
Authors: Misawa Mônica Yuri Orita , Huynh‐Ba Guy , Villar Gustavo Machado , Villar Cristina Cunha
Published: February 2016

This systematic review considers the evidence from animal studies evaluating the effectiveness of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the treatment of intraoral peri‐implant defects. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and LILACS databases were searched for quantitative preclinical controlled animal model studies that evaluated the effect of MSC on bone healing at intraoral peri‐implant bone defects. The primary outcome was the amount of (re‐)osseointegration reported as bone‐to‐implant contact in the defect area. The systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement guidelines. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Only one study induced peri‐implant inflammation to produce peri‐implant bone defects. In all others, defects were surgically created at implant installation. Differences in defect morphology were identified among the studies. Both xenogenous and autogenous MSC were used to treat peri‐implant defects. These included bone marrow‐derived MSC, periodontal ligament‐derived MSC, umbilical cord MSC, bone marrow‐derived mononuclear cells, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Meta‐analysis was not possible because of heterogeneities in study designs. Nonetheless, in most studies, local MSC implantation was not associated with adverse effects and had a positive effect on bone healing around peri‐implant defects. Combination of MSC with membranes and bioactive factors appears to provide improved treatment outcomes. In large animal models, intraoral use of MSC may provide beneficial effects on bone healing within peri‐implant defects. The various degrees of success of MSC in peri‐implant bone healing are likely to be related to the use of cells from various populations, tissues, and donor species. However, human safety and efficacy must be demonstrated before its clinical use can be considered.
Tools for DNA adenine methyltransferase identification analysis of nuclear organization during C. elegans development
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Ritler Dominic , Meister Peter
Published: February 2016

C. elegans has recently emerged as a valuable model to understand the link between nuclear organization and cell fate, by combining microscopy approaches, genome‐wide mapping techniques with advanced genetics. Crucial to these analyses are techniques to determine the genome‐wide interaction pattern of proteins with DNA. Chromatin immunoprecipitation has proven valuable but it requires considerable amounts of starting material. This is sometimes difficult to achieve, in particular for specific genotypes (balanced strains, different sexes, severe phenotypes…). As an alternative to ChIP, DNA adenine methyltransferase identification by sequencing (DamID‐seq) was recently shown to be able to characterize binding sites in single mammalian cells. Additionally, DamID can be achieved for cell‐type specific analysis by expressing Dam fusion proteins under tissue specific promoters in a controlled manner. In this report, we present a user‐friendly pipeline to analyse DamID‐seq data in C. elegans. Based upon this pipeline, we provide a comparative analysis of libraries generated with different starting material and discuss important library features. Moreover, we introduce an adaptation of an imaging based tool to visualize in vivo the cell‐specific tridimensional binding pattern of any protein of interest. genesis 54:151–159, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment and survival of patients with insular thyroid carcinoma: 508 cases from the National Cancer Data Base
Authors: Pezzi Todd A. , Sandulache Vlad C. , Pezzi Christopher M. , Turkeltaub Ashley E. , Feng Lei , Cabanillas Maria E. , Williams Michelle D. , Lai Stephen Y.
Published: February 2016

Background

Insular thyroid carcinoma (ITC) is a rare but aggressive thyroid malignancy.

Methods

Patients with ITC (n = 508) reported to the National Cancer Data Base from 1998 to 2012 were evaluated for patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics and outcomes.

Results

Compared to papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC), patients with ITC cancer were older, more often were men, had larger tumors, were more likely to present with distant metastasis, were less likely to have an R0 resection, more likely to receive external beam radiation and chemotherapy, and had significantly worse survival. Multivariate Cox regression identified age >65 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.53), presence of at least 1 comorbidity (HR = 1.80), positive lymph nodes (HR = 1.67), the presence of metastasis (HR = 2.73), positive margins (HR = 2.48), and radioactive iodine therapy (HR = 0.63) as significant and independent predictors of survival in ITC.

Conclusion

Treatment recommendations should incorporate the use of radioactive iodine after complete surgical resection and clearance of involved nodal basins. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 906–912, 2016
On the dependence of the saturated hydraulic conductivity upon the effective porosity through a power law model at different scales
Authors: Fallico Carmine , De Bartolo Samuele , Veltri Massimo , Severino Gerardo
Published: February 2016

We study the scale dependence of the saturated hydraulic conductivity Ks through the effective porosity ne by means of a newly developed power‐law model (PLM) which allows to use simultaneously measurements at different scales. The model is expressed as product between a single PLM (capturing the impact of the dominating scale) and a characteristic function κ⋆ accounting for the correction because of the other scale(s). The simple (closed form) expression of the κ⋆‐function enables one to easily identify the scales which are relevant for Ks.

The proposed model is then applied to a set of real data taken at the experimental site of Montalto Uffugo (Italy), and we show that in this case two (i.e. laboratory and field) scales appear to be the main ones. The implications toward an important application (solute transport) in Hydrology are finally discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface bound VEGF mimicking peptide maintains endothelial cell proliferation in the absence of soluble VEGFin vitro
Authors: Le Saux Guillaume , Plawinski Laurent , Parrot Camila , Nlate Sylvain , Servant Laurent , Teichmann Martin , Buffeteau Thierry , Durrieu Marie‐Christine
Published: February 2016

Continuous glucose monitoring is an efficient method for the management of diabetes and in limiting the complications induced by large fluctuations in glucose levels. For this, intravascular systems may assist in producing more reliable and accurate devices. However, neovascularization is a key factor to be addressed in improving their biocompatibility. In this scope, the perennial modification of the surface of an implant with the proangiogenic Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor mimic peptide (SVVYGLR peptide sequence) holds great promise. Herein, we report on the preparation of gold substrates presenting the covalently grafted SVVYGLR peptide sequence and their effect on HUVEC behavior. Effective coupling was demonstrated using XPS and PM‐IRRAS. The produced surfaces were shown to be beneficial for HUVEC adhesion. Importantly, surface bound SVVYGLR is able to maintain HUVEC proliferation even in the absence of soluble VEGF. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 1425–1436, 2016.
Recurrent Proximal Femur Fractures in a Teenager With Osteogenesis Imperfecta on Continuous Bisphosphonate Therapy: Are We Overtreating?
Authors: Vasanwala Rashida F , Sanghrajka Anish , Bishop Nicholas J , Högler Wolfgang
Published: February 2016

Long-term bisphosphonate (BP) therapy in adults with osteoporosis is associated with atypical femoral fractures, caused by increased material bone density and prolonged suppression of bone remodeling which may reduce fracture toughness. In children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), long-term intravenous BP therapy improves bone structure and mass without further increasing the already hypermineralized bone matrix, and is generally regarded as safe. Here we report a teenage girl with OI type IV, who was started on cyclical intravenous pamidronate therapy at age 6 years because of recurrent fractures. Transiliac bone biopsy revealed classical structural features of OI but unusually low bone resorption surfaces. She made substantial improvements in functional ability, bone mass, and fracture rate. However, after 5 years of pamidronate therapy she started to develop recurrent, bilateral, nontraumatic, and proximal femur fractures, which satisfied the case definition for atypical femur fractures. Some fractures were preceded by periosteal reactions and prodromal pain. Pamidronate was discontinued after 7 years of therapy, following which she sustained two further nontraumatic femur fractures, and continued to show delayed tibial osteotomy healing. Despite rodding surgery, and very much in contrast to her affected, untreated, and normally mobile mother, she remains wheelchair-dependent. The case of this girl raises questions about the long-term safety of BP therapy in some children, in particular about the risk of oversuppressed bone remodeling with the potential for microcrack accumulation, delayed healing, and increased stiffness. The principal concern is whether there is point at which benefit from BP therapy could turn into harm, where fracture risk increases again. This case should stimulate debate whether current adult atypical femoral fracture guidance should apply to children, and whether low-frequency, low-dose cyclical, intermittent, or oral treatment maintenance regimens should be considered on a case-by-case basis. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Fatty Acids and Breast Cancer: Make Them on Site or Have Them Delivered
Authors: Kinlaw William B. , Baures Paul W. , Lupien Leslie E. , Davis Wilson L. , Kuemmerle Nancy B.
Published: February 2016

Brisk fatty acid (FA) production by cancer cells is accommodated by the Warburg effect. Most breast and other cancer cell types are addicted to fatty acids (FA), which they require for membrane phospholipid synthesis, signaling purposes, and energy production. Expression of the enzymes required for FA synthesis is closely linked to each of the major classes of signaling molecules that stimulate BC cell proliferation. This review focuses on the regulation of FA synthesis in BC cells, and the impact of FA, or the lack thereof, on the tumor cell phenotype. Given growing awareness of the impact of dietary fat and obesity on BC biology, we will also examine the less‐frequently considered notion that, in addition to de novo FA synthesis, the lipolytic uptake of preformed FA may also be an important mechanism of lipid acquisition. Indeed, it appears that cancer cells may exist at different points along a “lipogenic‐lipolytic axis,” and FA uptake could thwart attempts to exploit the strict requirement for FA focused solely on inhibition of de novo FA synthesis. Strategies for clinically targeting FA metabolism will be discussed, and the current status of the medicinal chemistry in this area will be assessed. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 2128–2141, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Denitrification coupled with methane oxidation in a membrane bioreactor after methanogenic pre‐treatment of wastewater
Authors: Sánchez Alberto , Rodríguez‐Hernández Leticia , Buntner Dagmara , Esteban‐García Ana L , Tejero Iñaki , Garrido Juan M
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

The presence of dissolved methane is an important environmental problem related to greenhouse gas emissions from wastewater treated in methanogenic bioreactors. Methane has a global warming potential of 28. For low‐strength wastewaters, such as sewage, dissolved methane could account for up to 50% of the total methane produced. Dissolved methane is easily desorbed from effluents when released into the environment or post‐treated in aerobic bioreactors. The use of dissolved methane as a carbon source for biological denitrification has been proposed as an alternative for reducing both greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen concentrations in treated wastewater.

RESULTS

The effluent of a methanogenic reactor operating at ambient temperature was post‐treated in a two‐compartment biological membrane bioreactor (MBR). The first compartment consisted of an anoxic denitrification reactor in which dissolved methane was oxidized. The second compartment was an aerobic membrane filtration reactor. Up to 60% nitrogen removal and 95% methane consumption were observed. Batch experiments indicated the presence of microorganisms that were capable of denitrification using dissolved methane.

CONCLUSIONS

Denitrification using dissolved methane as a carbon source was feasible in an anoxic–aerobic MBR system. Denitrification resulted from a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic methane oxidizing bacteria, anammox and heterotrophic bacteria activity. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Atrial fibrillation associated with acute pancreatitis: a retrospective cohort study in Taiwan
Authors: Lai Shih‐Wei , Lin Cheng‐Li , Liao Kuan‐Fu
Published: February 2016

Background

There is little data on the relationship between atrial fibrillation and acute pancreatitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether atrial fibrillation is associated with acute pancreatitis.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed the database of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Program from 2000 to 2010. There were 8,981 subjects aged 20–84 with newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation as the atrial fibrillation group and 26,643 sex‐ and age‐matched, randomly selected subjects without atrial fibrillation as the non‐atrial fibrillation group. We used the multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model to measure the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for acute pancreatitis risk associated with atrial fibrillation and other comorbidities.

Results

The crude incidence rates of acute pancreatitis were 3.07 per 1,000 person‐years in the atrial fibrillation group and 2.03 per 1,000 person‐years in the non‐atrial fibrillation group (incidence rate ratio 1.51, 95% CI 1.40, 1.63). After controlling for potential confounding factors, the adjusted HR of acute pancreatitis was 1.46 for the atrial fibrillation group, as compared with the non‐atrial fibrillation group (95% CI 1.18, 1.80). In further analysis, even in the absence of alcohol‐related disease and biliary stone, the adjusted HR of acute pancreatitis was 1.62 for the atrial fibrillation group, as compared with the non‐atrial fibrillation group (95% CI 1.24, 2.12).

Conclusions

Atrial fibrillation is associated with acute pancreatitis in the Taiwanese population, even in the absence of alcohol‐related disease and biliary stone. Further research is necessary to explore the pathogenesis underlying the relationship between atrial fibrillation and acute pancreatitis.
Multifaceted intervention including education, rounding checklist implementation, cost feedback, and financial incentives reduces inpatient laboratory costs
Authors: Yarbrough Peter M. , Kukhareva Polina V. , Horton Devin , Edholm Karli , Kawamoto Kensaku
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

Inappropriate laboratory testing is a contributor to waste in healthcare.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of a multifaceted laboratory reduction intervention on laboratory costs.

DESIGN

A retrospective, controlled, interrupted time series (ITS) study.

SETTING

University of Utah Health Care, a 500‐bed academic medical center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

POPULATION

All patients 18 years or older admitted to the hospital to a service other than obstetrics, rehabilitation, or psychiatry.

INTERVENTION

Multifaceted quality‐improvement initiative in a hospitalist service including education, process change, cost feedback, and financial incentive.

MEASUREMENTS

Primary outcomes of lab cost per day and per visit. Secondary outcomes of number of basic metabolic panel (BMP), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), complete blood count (CBC), and prothrombin time/international normalized ratio tests per day; length of stay (LOS); and 30‐day readmissions.

RESULTS

A total of 6310 hospitalist patient visits (intervention group) were compared to 25,586 nonhospitalist visits (control group). Among the intervention group, the unadjusted mean cost per day was reduced from $138 before the intervention to $123 after the intervention (P < 0.001), and the unadjusted mean cost per visit decreased from $618 to $558 (P = 0.005). The ITS analysis showed significant reductions in cost per day, cost per visit, and the number of BMP, CMP, and CBC tests per day (P = 0.034, 0.02, <0.001, 0.004, and <0.001). LOS was unchanged and 30‐day readmissions decreased in the intervention group.

CONCLUSION

A multifaceted approach to laboratory reduction demonstrated a significant reduction in laboratory cost per day and per visit, as well as common tests per day at a major academic medical center. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:348–354. © 2016 Society of Hospital Medicine
Use of intravoxel incoherent motion MRI to assess renal fibrosis in a rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Cai Xiang‐Ran , Yu Juan , Zhou Qing‐Chun , Du Bin , Feng You‐Zhen , Liu Xiao‐ling
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To investigate the potential of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in assessment of renal fibrosis using a rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO).

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐two UUO rats were created by complete ligation of the left ureter. IVIM was performed on a clinical 3.0T whole‐body MRI scanner before the ligation (day 0) and on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 after ligation, and followed by histological analysis to examine α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) expression and tubulointerstitial lesion (TIL). IVIM parameters of renal cortex and medulla were measured. Changes in each parameter with time were analyzed and correlated with α‐SMA expression level and grades of TIL.

Results

The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), true diffusion (D), and fractional perfusion (f) values between the cortex and inner medulla and between the cortex and outer medulla were found to be significantly different (P < 0.01). The average ADC, D, D*, and f values of renal cortex, outer medulla, and inner medulla on the UUO side significantly decreased over time (P < 0.05), and negatively correlated with both α‐SMA expression level and TIL grades (Spearman Correlation Coefficient r: ADC and α‐SMA.805, –0.707, –0.805; ADC and TIL: –0.758, –0.761, –0.810; D and α‐SMA: –0.782, –0.486, –0.833; D and TIL: –0.518, –0.504, –0.826; D* and α‐SMA: –0.707, –0.605, –0.639; D* and TIL: –0.450, –0.670, –0.701; f and α‐SMA: –0.866, –0.872, –0.863; and TIL: –0.870, –0.875, –0.863).

Conclusions

IVIM MRI shows great potential in noninvasive assessment of renal fibrosis induced by UUO. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:698–706.