bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐Heme Iron Catalysts with a Rigid Bis‐Isoindoline Backbone and Their Use in Selective Aliphatic C−H Oxidation
Authors: Chen Jianming , Lutz Martin , Milan Michela , Costas Miquel , Otte Matthias , Klein Gebbink Robertus J. M.
Published: June 2017

Iron complexes derived from a bis‐isoindoline‐bis‐pyridine ligand platform based on the BPBP ligand (BPBP=N,N′‐bis(2‐picolyl)‐2,2′‐bis‐pyrrolidine) have been synthesized and applied in selective aliphatic C−H oxidation with hydrogen peroxide under mild conditions. The introduction of benzene moieties on the bis‐pyrrolidine backbone leads to an increased preference of tertiary over secondary C−H bond oxidation (3°/2° ratio up to 33). On the other hand, substituting the meta‐position of the pyridines with bulky silyl groups affords enhanced secondary C−H oxidation selectivity and generally leads to higher product yields and mass balances.

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Developmentally‐faithful and effective human erythropoiesis in immunodeficient and Kit mutant mice
Authors: Fiorini Claudia , Abdulhay Nour J. , McFarland Sean K. , Munschauer Mathias , Ulirsch Jacob C. , Chiarle Roberto , Sankaran Vijay G.
Published: June 2017

Immunodeficient mouse models have been valuable for studies of human hematopoiesis, but high‐fidelity recapitulation of erythropoiesis in most xenograft recipients remains elusive. Recently developed immunodeficient and Kit mutant mice, however, have provided a suitable background to achieve higher‐level human erythropoiesis after long‐term hematopoietic engraftment. While there has been some characterization of human erythropoiesis in these models, a comprehensive analysis from various human developmental stages has not yet been reported. Here, we have utilized cell surface phenotypes, morphologic analyses, and molecular studies to fully characterize human erythropoiesis from multiple developmental stages in immunodeficient and Kit mutant mouse models following long‐term hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell engraftment. We show that human erythropoiesis in such models demonstrates complete maturation and enucleation, as well as developmentally appropriate globin gene expression. These results provide a framework for future studies to utilize this model system for interrogating disorders affecting human erythropoiesis and for developing improved therapeutic approaches.
The prognostic significance of polyclonal bone marrow plasma cells in patients with relapsing multiple myeloma
Authors: Ghosh Toshi , Gonsalves Wilson I. , Jevremovic Dragan , Dispenzieri Angela , Dingli David , Timm Michael M. , Morice William G. , Kapoor Prashant , Kourelis Taxiarchis V. , Lacy Martha Q. , Hayman Suzanne R. , Buadi Francis K. , Leung Nelson , Go Ronald S. , Lin Yi , Russell Stephen J. , Lust John A. , Zeldenrust Steven R. , Warsame Rahma , Hwa Yi L. , Kyle Robert A. , Gertz Morie A. , Vincent Rajkumar S. , Kumar Shaji K.
Published: June 2017

Prior studies have revealed that the presence of increasing number of polyclonal plasma cells (pPCs) in the bone marrow (BM) are associated with better outcomes in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients. This effect has not been studied in patients with MM at the time of disease relapse. We determined the prognostic value of depletion of pPCs in the BM by 7‐color multiparameter flow cytometry in a series of 174 relapsing MM patients. The time to next therapy (TTNT) in those with <5% pPCs was 9.4 months versus 13.9 months in those with ≥5% pPCs (P = .0091). The median overall survival (OS) in those with <5% pPCs was 21.4 months, while the median OS was not reached in those patients with ≥5% pPCs (P = .019). Of the 109 patients with standard risk cytogenetics, the median OS of those with <5% pPCs was 28.4 months, while the median OS was not reached in those with ≥5% pPCs (P = .033). As such, <5% pPCs in the BM appears to have prognostic utility in identifying a subset of relapsing MM patients, even with standard‐risk cytogenetics, who have a particularly adverse outcome.
Stable Heterometallic Cluster Ions based on Werner's Hexol
Authors: Marsh David A. , Elliott William S. , Smith Rachel M. , Sharps Meredith C. , Baumeister Mary K. , Carnes Matthew E. , Zakharov Lev N. , Casey William H. , Johnson Darren W.
Published: June 2017

Large aqueous ions are interesting because they are useful in materials science (for example to generate thin films) but also because they serve as molecular models for the oxide–aqueous mineral interface where spectroscopy is difficult. Here we show that new clusters of the type M[(μ‐OH)2Co(NH3)4]3(NO3)6 (M=Al, Ga) can be synthesized using Werner's century‐old cluster as a substitutable framework. We substituted Group 13 metals into the hexol Co[(μ‐OH)2Co(NH3)4]36+ ion to make diamagnetic heterometallic ions. The solid‐state structure of the hexol‐type derivatives were determined by single‐crystal XRD and NMR spectroscopy and confirmed that the solid‐state structure persists in solution after dissolution into either D2O or [D6]DMSO. Other compositions besides these diamagnetic ions can undoubtedly be made using a similar approach, which considerably expands the number of stable aqueous heteronuclear ions.
Vancomycin‐Dependent Response in Live Drug‐Resistant Bacteria by Metabolic Labeling
Authors: Pidgeon Sean E. , Pires Marcos M.
Published: June 2017

The surge in drug‐resistant bacterial infections threatens to overburden healthcare systems worldwide. Bacterial cell walls are essential to bacteria, thus making them unique targets for the development of antibiotics. We describe a cellular reporter to directly monitor the phenotypic switch in drug‐resistant bacteria with temporal resolution. Vancomycin‐resistant enterococci (VRE) escape the bactericidal action of vancomycin by chemically modifying their cell‐wall precursors. A synthetic cell‐wall analogue was developed to hijack the biosynthetic rewiring of drug‐resistant cells in response to antibiotics. Our study provides the first in vivo VanX reporter agent that responds to cell‐wall alteration in drug‐resistant bacteria. Cellular reporters that reveal mechanisms related to antibiotic resistance can potentially have a significant impact on the fundamental understanding of cellular adaption to antibiotics.
Catalytic Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Indolizines to α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Correia José Tiago Menezes , List Benjamin , Coelho Fernando
Published: June 2017

A catalytic enantioselective conjugate addition of indolizines to enones is described. The chiral phosphoric acid (S)‐TRIP activates α,β‐unsaturated ketones, thereby promoting an enantioface‐differentiating attack by indolizines. Using this reaction, several alkylated indolizines were synthesized in good yields and with enantiomeric ratios of up to 98:2.
A Generalized Strategy for the Synthesis of Large‐Size Ultrathin Two‐Dimensional Metal Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Zhao Hewei , Zhu Yujie , Li Fengshi , Hao Rui , Wang Shaoxiong , Guo Lin
Published: June 2017

Two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials show unique electrical, mechanical, and catalytic performance owing to their ultrahigh surface‐to‐volume ratio and quantum confinement effects. However, ways to simply synthesize 2D metal oxide nanosheets through a general and facile method is still a big challenge. Herein, we report a generalized and facile strategy to synthesize large‐size ultrathin 2D metal oxide nanosheets by using graphene oxide (GO) as a template in a wet‐chemical system. Notably, the novel strategy mainly relies on accurately controlling the balance between heterogeneous growth and nucleation of metal oxides on the surface of GO, which is independent on the individual character of the metal elements. Therefore, ultrathin nanosheets of various metal oxides, including those from both main‐group and transition elements, can be synthesized with large size. The ultrathin 2D metal oxide nanosheets also show controllable thickness and unique surface chemical state.
Europium Oxybromide Catalysts for Efficient Bromine Looping in Natural Gas Valorization
Authors: Paunović Vladimir , Lin Ronghe , Scharfe Matthias , Amrute Amol P. , Mitchell Sharon , Hauert Roland , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: June 2017

The industrialization of bromine‐mediated natural gas upgrading is contingent on the ability to fully recycle hydrogen bromide (HBr), which is the end form of the halogen after the activation and coupling of the alkanes. Europium oxybromide (EuOBr) is introduced as a unique catalytic material to close the bromine loop via HBr oxidation, permitting low‐temperature operation and long lifetimes with a stoichiometric feed (O2:HBr=0.25)—conditions at which any catalyst reported to date severely deactivates because of excessive bromination. Besides, EuOBr exhibits unparalleled selectivity to methyl bromide in methane oxybromination, which is an alternative route for bromine looping. This novel active phase is finely dispersed on appropriate carriers and scaled up to technical extrudates, enhancing the utilization of the europium phase while preserving the performance. This catalytic system paves the way for sustainable valorization of stranded natural gas via bromine chemistry.
Micellization of pH‐sensitive poly(butadiene)‐block‐poly(2 vinylpyridine)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide) triblock copolymers: Complex formation with anionic surfactants
Authors: Atanase Leonard Ionut , Lerch Jean‐Philippe , Caprarescu Simona , Iurciuc (Tincu) Camelia Elena , Riess Gerard
Published: June 2017

The micellization of three tailor‐made triblock copolymers, such as PB100–P2VP100–PEO104, PB185–P2VP108–PEO154, and PB37–P2VP115–PEO241, having similar total molecular weights and constant poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (P2VP) sequence lengths, was investigated as a function of pH and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) concentration. At pH 7 the formation of intermicellar aggregates was observed, especially for copolymers of low poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) content. A pH decrease from 7 to 3 leads to a particle size increase due to the electrostatic repulsion of the protonated P2VP chains. The influence of the PEO sequence length was also observed for zeta potential values. At pH 3, in the absence of SDS, core–shell–corona micelles are formed whereas in the presence of small amount of SDS (degree of neutralization DN = 0%–50%), a complex is formed between SDS and the protonated P2VP which leads to the shrinkage of the shell and thus to a decrease of the micellar sizes. For higher DN values, the micellar sizes increase due to the formation of large agglomerates and a transition occurs from a monomodal to a bimodal size distribution. Furthermore, it turned out that secondary aggregation, such as intermicellar aggregation, can completely be avoided if the degree of polymerization (DPn) of the water‐soluble block is significantly higher than the DPn of the water‐insoluble sequence. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45313.
BSA–AuNPs@Tb–AMP metal–organic frameworks for ratiometric fluorescence detection of DPA and Hg2+
Authors: Cai Keying , Zeng Mulan , Liu Fenfen , Liu Nan , Huang Zhenzhong , Song Yonghai , Wang Li
Published: June 2017

An easy and effective strategy for synthesizing a ratiometric fluorescent nanosensor has been demonstrated in this work. Novel fluorescent BSA–AuNPs@Tb–AMP (BSA, bovine serum albumin; AMP, adenosine 5′‐monophosphate; AuNPs, Au nanoparticles) metal–organic framework (MOF) nanostructures were synthesized by encapsulating BSA–AuNPs into Tb–AMP MOFs for the detection of 2,6‐pyridinedicarboxylic acid (DPA) and Hg2+. DPA could strongly co‐ordinate with Tb3+ to replace water molecules from the Tb3+ center and accordingly enhanced the fluorescence of Tb–AMP MOFs. The fluorescence of BSA–AuNPs at 405 nm remained constant. While the fluorescence of BSA–AuNPs at 635 nm was quenched after Hg2+ was added, the fluorescence of Tb–AMP MOFs remained constant. Accordingly, a ratiometric fluorescence nanosensor was constructed for detection of DPA and Hg2+. The ratiometric nanosensor exhibited good selectivity to DPA over other substances. The F545/F405 linearly increased with increase of DPA concentration in the range of 50 nM to 10 μM with a detection limit as low as 17.4 nM. F635/F405 increased linearly with increase of Hg2+ concentration ranging from 50 nM to 1 μM with a detection limit as low as 20.9 nM. Additionally, the nanosensor could be successfully applied for the determination of DPA and Hg2+ in running water.
Meta-analysis of single-port versus conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy comparing body image and cosmesis
Authors: Haueter R , Schütz T , Raptis D A , Clavien P-A , Zuber M
Published: June 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate improvements in cosmetic results and postoperative morbidity for single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) in comparison with multiport laparoscopic cholecystectomy (MLC).

Methods

A literature search was undertaken for RCTs comparing SILC with MLC in adult patients with benign gallbladder disease. Primary outcomes were body image and cosmesis scores at different time points. Secondary outcomes included intraoperative and postoperative complications, postoperative pain and frequency of port-site hernia.

Results

Thirty-seven RCTs were included, with a total of 3051 patients. The body image score favoured SILC at all time points (short term: mean difference (MD) –2·09, P < 0·001; mid term: MD −1·33, P < 0·001), as did the cosmesis score (short term: MD 3·20, P < 0·001; mid term: MD 4·03, P < 0·001; long-term: MD 4·87, P = 0·05) and the wound satisfaction score (short term: MD 1·19, P = 0·03; mid term: MD 1·38, P < 0·001; long-term: MD 1·19, P = 0·02). Duration of operation was longer for SILC (MD 13·56 min; P < 0·001) and SILC required more additional ports (odds ratio (OR) 6·78; P < 0·001). Postoperative pain assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS) was lower for SILC at 12 h after operation (MD in VAS score −0·80; P = 0·007). The incisional hernia rate was higher after SILC (OR 2·50, P = 0·03). All other outcomes were similar for both groups.

Conclusion

SILC is associated with better outcomes in terms of cosmesis, body image and postoperative pain. The risk of incisional hernia is four times higher after SILC than after MLC.
Associating students and teachers for tutoring in higher education using clustering and data mining
Authors: Urbina Nájera Argelia B. , de la Calleja Jorge , Medina Ma. Auxilio
Published: June 2017

Tutoring is part of the teaching–learning process; this is considered a complementary strategy to support the development of integral and competent professionals. When teachers deal with large groups of students such as in digital learning environments, tutoring becomes a time‐consuming and difficult task that can cause distraction and overload. This paper presents an experimental study to associate students and teachers for tutoring according to their skills and affinities using the clustering methods of k‐means, expectation maximization, and farthest first. The study harvests data of 1,199 university students and 35 teachers. The results reached 100% of compatibility between clusters using expectation maximization and farthest first.
Myocardial Mass Contributes to the Discrepancy Between Anatomic Stenosis Severity Assessed by Intravascular Ultrasound and Fractional Flow Reserve in Intermediate Lesions of the Coronary Artery
Authors: Yoon Myeong‐Ho , Tahk Seung‐Jea , Lim Hong‐Seok , Yang Hyoung‐Mo , Seo Kyoung‐Woo , Choi Byoung‐Joo , Choi So‐Yeon , Hwang Gyo‐Seung , Park Jin‐Sun , Shin Joon‐Han
Published: June 2017

Objectives

The present study investigated the major contributors to the discrepancy between the minimal lumen area (MLA) and fractional flow reserve (FFR).

Background

There was considerable discrepancy between MLA or diameter stenosis (DS) and FFR.

Methods

We enrolled 744 patients with intermediate stenoses of the left anterior descending artery (LAD). Summed epicardial coronary artery length distal to the target stenosis was obtained from each longest view of the vessels on the coronary angiograms. Mismatching was defined as a lesion with FFR of >0.80 and MLA smaller than the best cut‐off value (BCV) for predicting FFR of ≤0.80. Reverse mismatching was defined as a lesion with FFR of ≤0.80 and MLA larger than the BCV.

Results

Summed epicardial coronary artery length was longer at the lesions of proximal LAD than that of middle LAD (380 mm ± 82 mm vs. 341 mm ± 80 mm, P < 0.001). Reverse mismatching was found more frequently in the proximal than middle LAD (28.3% vs. 5.5%, P < 0.001). Independent predictors of FFR ≤ 0.80 were age, male, multi‐vessel disease, proximal LAD lesion, MLA, DS, plaque burden at distal reference, lesion length and summed epicardial coronary artery length. Proximal LAD lesion was an independent predictor of reverse mismatching (hazard ratio 3.162, 1.858–5.382, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Myocardial mass subtended by a lesion is an important factor predicting FFR ≤0.80 and discrepancy between FFR and MLA. Myocardial mass subtended by a lesion should be considered when determining the revascularization therapy by intravascular ultrasound parameters. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous obliteration of left ventricular cavity to eliminate aortic regurgitation and presumed coronary steal in an infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome
Authors: El‐Said Howaida G. , Pockett Charissa R. , Moore John W.
Published: June 2017

The phenomenon of coronary steal is well known in the setting of HLHS (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome) early after the Classical Norwood Operation. We report a rare case of an infant with HLHS [Severe Aortic Stenosis (AS), Mitral Stenosis (MS) and small Left Ventricle (LV)], who developed aortic regurgitation and presumed coronary steal late after the Sano Modification of the Norwood Procedure. Coronary steal developed secondary to progressive aortic and mitral regurgitation and resulted in poor right ventricular function and severe tricuspid regurgitation. We describe a novel interventional approach for obliteration of the LV cavity by using hydrogel coils. LV obliteration eliminated the presumed steal and resulted in improvement in ventricular function, tricuspid regurgitation and clinical course.
A case of bilateral hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy developing during treatment for Mycobacterium avium complex
Authors: Yamanaka Yumie , Sekine Akimasa , Yamakawa Hideaki , Baba Tomohisa , Okudela Koji , Takemura Tamiko , Ogura Takashi
Published: June 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report a rare case of an immunocompetent patient with Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) disease in which bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy developed during anti‐MAC treatment. This case indicates that Propionibacterium acnes would be present and might be a cause of sarcoidosis even in patients with MAC.
Idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia following atrioventricular conduction block by rapid atrial tachycardia
Authors: Suenari Kazuyoshi , Mitsuba Naoya , Hirao Hidekazu , Ueda Hironori , Kihara Yasuki
Published: June 2017

Key Clinical Message

The present case demonstrated a rare situation alternating between a repetitive atrial tachycardia (AT) and ventricular tachycardia (VT). A unique induction mechanism was noted in which the VT was induced after Wenckebach AV node conduction block following the repetitive rapid AT.
Ion Pairing and Co‐facial Stacking Drive High‐Fidelity Bisulfate Assembly with Cyanostar Macrocyclic Hosts
Authors: Fatila Elisabeth M. , Twum Eric B. , Karty Jonathan A. , Flood Amar H.
Published: June 2017

Hydroxyanions pair up inside CH H‐bonding cyanostar macrocycles against Coulombic repulsions and solvation forces acting to separate them. The driving forces responsible for assembly of bisulfate (HSO4−) dimers are unclear. We investigated them using solvent quality to tune the contributing forces and we take advantage of characteristic NMR signatures to follow the species distributions. We show that apolar solvents enhance ion pairing to stabilize formation of a 2:2:2 complex composed of π‐stacked cyanostars encapsulating the [HSO4⋅⋅⋅HSO4]2− dimer and endcapped by tetrabutylammonium cations. Without cations engaged, a third macrocycle can be recruited with the aid of solvophobic forces in more polar solvents. The third macrocycle generates a more potent electropositive pocket in which to stabilize the anti‐electrostatic anion dimer as a 3:2 assembly. We also see unprecedented evidence for a water molecule bound to the complex in the acetonitrile solution. In methanol, OH H‐bonding leads to formation of 2:1 complexes by bisulfate solvation inside the macrocycles inhibiting anion dimers. Knowledge of the driving forces for stabilization (strong OH⋅⋅⋅O H‐bonding, CH H‐bonding, ion pairs, π‐stacking) competing with destabilization (Coulomb repulsion, solvation) allows high‐fidelity selection of the assemblies. Thermodynamic stabilization of hydroxyanion dimers also demonstrates the ability to use macrocycles to control ion speciation and stoichiometry of the overall assemblies.
Structure–Activity Relationship Studies on 6,7‐Dimethoxy‐2‐phenethyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline Derivatives as Multidrug Resistance Reversers
Authors: Teodori Elisabetta , Dei Silvia , Bartolucci Gianluca , Perrone Maria Grazia , Manetti Dina , Romanelli Maria Novella , Contino Marialessandra , Colabufo Nicola Antonio
Published: June 2017

A series of derivatives were synthesized and studied with the aim to investigate the structure–activity relationships of the two P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) modulators elacridar and tariquidar. Then, different aryl‐substituted amides were inserted, and to explore the effects of varying the amide function, the corresponding isosteric ester derivatives and some alkylamine analogues were synthesized. The new compounds were studied to evaluate their P‐gp interaction profile and selectivity toward the two other ABC transporters, multidrug‐resistance‐associated protein‐1 (MRP‐1) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). Investigation of the chemical stability of the amide and ester derivatives toward spontaneous or enzymatic hydrolysis showed that these compounds were stable in phosphate‐buffered saline and human plasma. This study allowed us to evaluate the selectivity of the three series on the three efflux pumps and to propose the structural requirements that define the P‐gp interaction profile. We identified two P‐gp substrates, a P‐gp inhibitor, and three ester derivatives that were active on BCRP, which opens a new scenario in the development of ligands active toward this pump.
Discovery of Potent Dual Binding Site Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors via Homo‐ and Heterodimerization of Coumarin‐Based Moieties
Authors: Pisani Leonardo , Catto Marco , De Palma Annalisa , Farina Roberta , Cellamare Saverio , Altomare Cosimo D.
Published: June 2017

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors still comprise the majority of the marketed drugs for Alzheimer's disease (AD). The structural arrangement of the enzyme, which features a narrow gorge that separates the catalytic and peripheral anionic subsites (CAS and PAS, respectively), inspired the development of bivalent ligands that are able to bind and block the catalytic activity of the CAS as well as the role of the PAS in beta amyloid (Aβ) fibrillogenesis. With the aim of discovering novel AChE dual binders with improved drug‐likeness, homo‐ and heterodimers containing 2H‐chromen‐2‐one building blocks were developed. By exploring diverse linkages of neutral and protonatable amino moieties through aliphatic spacers of different length, a nanomolar bivalent AChE inhibitor was identified (3‐[2‐({4‐[(dimethylamino)methyl]‐2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐7‐yl}oxy)ethoxy]‐6,7‐dimethoxy‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one (6 d), IC50=59 nm) from originally weakly active fragments. To assess the potential against AD, the disease‐related biological properties of 6 d were investigated. It performed mixed‐type AChE enzyme kinetics (inhibition constant Ki=68 nm) and inhibited Aβ self‐aggregation. Moreover, it displayed an outstanding ability to protect SH‐SY5Y cells from Aβ1‐42 damage.
Surface‐Modified Gold Nanoparticles Possessing Two‐Channel Responsive EuIII/TbIII Cyclen Complexes as Luminescent Logic Gate Mimics
Authors: Truman Laura K. , Bradberry Samuel J. , Comby Steve , Kotova Oxana , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: June 2017

The development of material‐supported molecular logic gate mimics (MGLMs) for contained application and device fabrication has become of increasing interest. Herein, we present the formation of ≈5 nm gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) that have been surface‐modified (via a thiol linkage) with heptadentate cyclen‐based complexes of europium and terbium for sensing applications using delayed lanthanide luminescence and as integrated logic gate mimics within competitive media.
Super class AB OTA without open‐loop gain degradation based on dynamic cascode biasing
Authors: Pourashraf Shirin , Ramirez‐Angulo Jaime , Lopez‐Martin Antonio J. , Carvajal Ramon G.
Published: June 2017

A scheme to achieve simultaneously extremely high slew‐rate improvement and avoiding open‐loop gain degradation in one‐stage super class AB op‐amps is introduced. It overcomes the serious shortcoming of super class AB operational transconductance amplifiers that shows very high‐output current enhancement factors at the expense of degrading the open‐loop gain. The proposed scheme uses dynamically biased cascode transistors to avoid gain and slew‐rate degradation. Experimental results of a super class AB operational transconductance amplifier in 180‐nm complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor technology with open‐loop gain of 67 dB, a factor 2 improvement in GBW, and a current enhancement factor of 270 verify the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measurement of self‐heating potential of biomass pellets with isothermal calorimetry
Authors: Larsson Ida , Lönnermark Anders , Blomqvist Per , Persson Henry
Published: June 2017

To assess the risk for spontaneous combustion of biomass pellets during storage, it is important to know how prone the fuel is to self‐heating, ie, to determine the reactivity.

This article presents the results from isothermal calorimetry tests performed on 31 different biomass pellet batches. The purpose of the tests has been to characterize pellets by measuring the reactivity and investigate how the pellet composition influences the heat release rate (HRR) and thereby the self‐heating potential of pellets.

The results from the tests clearly indicate that there is a significant difference in reactivity between different types of pellets. The tested high reactive pellet batches reached maximum specific HRRs (HRRmax) of 0.61 to 1.06 mW/g while pellet batches with low reactivity showed HRRmax of 0.05 to 0.18 mW/g. The tested batches were primarily ranked on the basis of HRRmax, but an alternative ranking based on specific total heat release rate (THR) during the test period was also used for comparison.

The test results also indicate that pine/spruce mix pellets are significantly more reactive than all other types of pellets tested and that pellets consisting of 100% pine are more reactive than pellets consisting of 100% spruce. Pellets produced from wine pruning/grape pomace (winery wastes), straw, or eucalyptus are not very reactive compared to pellets consisting of pine/spruce.

The results also show that the reactivity of the pellets can be reduced either by introducing certain kinds of antioxidants into the pellets or by extracting lipids from the raw material of pellets.
A hybrid algorithm of lattice Boltzmann method and finite difference–based lattice Boltzmann method for viscous flows
Authors: Shi Xing , Huang Xianwen , Zheng Yao , Ji Tingwei
Published: June 2017

In this paper, a hybrid algorithm of the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and the finite difference LBM (FDLBM) is proposed. The conventional LBM is known for its high computational efficiency, whereas the finite difference method can guarantee both the accuracy of the description of the complex geometry and the high resolution of the flow field by a local refined anisotropic body‐fitted mesh. The hybrid algorithm of the LBM and FDLBM takes advantage of the merits of both the methods. Four benchmark flow problems are simulated to verify the hybrid algorithm, namely, the lid‐driven cavity flow, the flow past a static circular cylinder, the flow past an impulsively started cylinder, and the flow past 2 cylinders in tandem configuration. Results from these simulations show that the hybrid method proposed in the present work works very well for viscous flows.
Prediction of α‐stable GARCH and ARMA‐GARCH‐M models
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad
Published: June 2017

The best prediction of generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) models with α‐stable innovations, α‐stable power‐GARCH models and autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models with GARCH in mean effects (ARMA‐GARCH‐M) are proposed. We present a sufficient condition for stationarity of α‐stable GARCH models. The prediction methods are easy to implement in practice. The proposed prediction methods are applied for predicting future values of the daily SP500 stock market and wind speed data.
Neuroinflammation as modifier of genetically caused neurological disorders of the central nervous system: Understanding pathogenesis and chances for treatment
Authors: Groh Janos , Martini Rudolf
Published: June 2017

Genetically caused neurological disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) are usually orphan diseases with poor or even fatal clinical outcome and few or no treatments that will improve longevity or at least quality of life. Neuroinflammation is common to many of these disorders, despite the fact that a plethora of distinct mutations and molecular changes underlie the disorders. In this article, data from corresponding animal models are analyzed to define the roles of innate and adaptive inflammation as modifiers and amplifiers of disease. We describe both common and distinct patterns of neuroinflammation in genetically mediated CNS disorders and discuss the contrasting mechanisms that lead to adverse versus neuroprotective effects. Moreover, we identify the juxtaparanode as a neuroanatomical compartment commonly associated with inflammatory cells and ongoing axonopathic changes, in models of diverse diseases. The identification of key immunological effector pathways that amplify neuropathic features should lead to realistic possibilities for translatable therapeutic interventions using existing immunomodulators. Moreover, evidence emerges that neuroinflammation is not only able to modify primary neural damage‐related symptoms but also may lead to unexpected clinical outcomes such as neuropsychiatric syndromes.
Hair analysis for the detection of drug use—is there potential for evasion?
Authors: Marrinan Shanna , Roman‐Urrestarazu Andres , Naughton Declan , Levari Emerlinda , Collins John , Chilcott Robert , Bersani Giuseppe , Corazza Ornella
Published: June 2017

Background

Hair analysis for illicit substances is widely used to detect chronic drug consumption or abstention from drugs. Testees are increasingly seeking ways to avoid detection by using a variety of untested adulterant products (e.g., shampoos, cleansers) widely sold online. This study aims to investigate adulteration of hair samples and to assess effectiveness of such methods.

Methods

The literature on hair test evasion was searched for on PubMed or MEDLINE, Psycinfo, and Google Scholar. Given the sparse nature of peer‐reviewed data on this subject, results were integrated with a qualitative assessment of online sources, including user‐orientated information or commercial websites, drug fora and “chat rooms”. Over four million web sources were identified in a Google search by using “beat hair drug test” and the first 86 were monitored on regular basis and considered for further analysis.

Results

Attempts to influence hair test results are widespread. Various “shampoos,” and “cleansers” among other products, were found for sale, which claim to remove analytes. Often advertised with aggressive marketing strategies, which include discounts, testimonials, and unsupported claims of efficacy. However, these products may pose serious health hazards and are also potentially toxic. In addition, many anecdotal reports suggest that Novel Psychoactive Substances are also consumed as an evasion technique, as these are not easily detectable via standard drug test. Recent changes on Novel Psychoactive Substances legislations such as New Psychoactive Bill in the UK might further challenge the testing process.

Conclusion

Further research is needed by way of chemical analysis and trial of the adulterant products sold online and their effects as well as the development of more sophisticated hair testing techniques.
LRWD1 Regulates Microtubule Nucleation and Proper Cell Cycle Progression in the Human Testicular Embryonic Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Wang Chia‐Yih , Hong Yu‐Han , Syu Jhih‐Siang , Tsai Yung‐Chieh , Liu Xiu‐Ying , Chen Ting‐Yu , Su Yin‐Mei , Kuo Pao‐Lin , Lin Yung‐Ming , Teng Yen‐Ni
Published: June 2017

Leucine‐rich repeats and WD repeat domain containing protein 1 (LRWD1) is a testis‐specific protein that mainly expressed in the sperm neck where centrosome is located. By using microarray analysis, LRWD1 is identified as a putative gene that involved in spermatogenesis. However, its role in human male germ cell development has not been extensively studied. When checking in the semen of patients with asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia, and asthenoteratozoospermia, the level of LRWD1 in the sperm neck was significantly reduced with a defective neck or tail. When checking the sub‐cellular localization of LRWD1 in the cells, we found that LRWD1 resided in the centrosome and its centrosomal residency was independent of microtubule transportation in NT2/D1, the human testicular embryonic carcinoma, cell line. Depletion of LRWD1 did not induce centrosome re‐duplication but inhibited microtubule nucleation. In addition, the G1 arrest were observed in LRWD1 deficient NT2/D1 cells. Upon LRWD1 depletion, the levels of cyclin E, A, and phosphorylated CDK2, were reduced. Overexpression of LRWD1 promoted cell proliferation in NT2/D1, HeLa, and 239T cell lines. In addition, we also observed that autophagy was activated in LRWD1 deficient cells and inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine or bafilomycin A1 promoted cell death when LRWD1 was depleted. Thus, we found a novel function of LRWD1 in controlling microtubule nucleation and cell cycle progression in the human testicular embryonic carcinoma cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 314–326, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RNASET2,GPR174, and PTPN22 gene polymorphisms are related to the risk of liver damage associated with the hyperthyroidism in patients with Graves’ disease
Authors: Zhang Qing , Liu Shaozheng , Guan Yanxing , Chen Qingjie , Zhang Qing , Min Xiang
Published: June 2017

Objectives

This study was designed to unveil the association of GPR174 rs3827440, PTPN22 rs3789604, and RNASET2 rs9355610 with the onset of liver damage (LD) among the Graves’ disease (GD) patients.

Methods

A total of 120 GD patients were divided into the none‐LD and LD groups. Several indicators were detected for assessing liver functions, and genotypes of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified. Logistic regression was introduced for investigating the relationship between risk SNPs and LD‐associated hyperthyroidism in GD patients.

Results

Significant differences were identified between LD and none‐LD groups regarding genotype distributions of rs3827440, rs3789604, and rs9355610. Results from logistic regression indicted that among the GD patients, C carriers of PTPN22 rs3789604 were associated with a higher risk of LD‐associated hyperthyroidism, while C carriers of rs3827440 (GPR174) and G carriers of rs9355610 (RNASET2) were associated with a reduced risk of LD‐associated hyperthyroidism.

Conclusions

The C allele of rs3789604 (PTPN22) was a significant risk factor for LD‐associated hyperthyroidism in GD patients, whereas C allele of GPR174 rs3827440 and G allele of RNASET2 rs9355610 appeared to be a protective factor for this disease.
Defining the clinical relevance of red blood cell autoantibodies by Monocyte Monolayer Assay
Authors: Conrado Marina C. A. V. , D'Avila Amanda N. , Vieira Juliana B. , Bonifacio Silvia L. , Gomes Francisco C. A. , Dezan Marcia R. , Oliveira Valeria B. , Ribeiro Ingrid H. , Tucunduva Luciana T. C. M. , Mendrone‐Júnior Alfredo , Rocha Vanderson , Dinardo Carla L.
Published: June 2017

Background

The Monocyte Monolayer Assay (MMA) is an in vitro simulation of red blood cell (RBC) alloantibody behavior. It has been classically applied to predict the risks of post‐transfusion hemolytic reactions when transfusing incompatible RBC units. Quantifying erythrophagocytosis by MMA may be an interesting option for situations where there is doubt whether a RBC autoantibody is mediating significant hemolysis. Here, we present three situations involving RBC autoantibodies in which the MMA was decisive for clarifying the diagnosis and choosing the best clinical treatment.

Case Report

Case 1. Pregnant patient with severely anemic fetus exhibited warm autoantibody without signs of hemolysis. MMA revealed 30% of monocyte index (MI) highlighting that fetal hemolysis was caused by maternal autoantibody. Prednisone was prescribed with fetal clinical improvement. Cases 2 and 3. Two patients with the diagnosis of mixed auto‐immune hemolytic anemia and poor response to corticosteroids were evaluated using MMA. The resulting MI was less than 10% in both cases, suggesting that the cold‐agglutinin rather than the warm auto‐IgG was responsible for overt hemolysis. Treatment with rituximab was begun, with good clinical response.

Conclusion

MMA can be used to evaluate the ability of RBC autoantibodies to mediate overt hemolysis. It can be especially useful to determine the role played by cold and warm auto‐antibodies in mixed auto‐immune hemolytic disease, helping to define the best treatment option.
Forbidden mineral assemblage coesite‐disordered graphite in diamond‐bearing kyanite gneisses (Kokchetav Massif)
Authors: Shchepetova Olga V. , Korsakov Andrey , Mikhailenko Denis , Zelenovskiy Pavel , Shur Vladimir , Ohfuji Hiroaki
Published: June 2017

Confocal 2D and 3D Raman imaging was applied to SiO2 inclusions in kyanite porphyroblasts from diamond‐bearing kyanite gneisses of the Kokchetav Massif (Northern Kazakhstan). The study reveals a mineral assemblage of coesite‐disordered graphite which is forbidden in ultrahigh pressure‐high temperature (UHP‐HT) metamorphic complexes. Disordered graphite in coesite inclusions is optically undetectable and has been identified exclusively by Raman spectroscopy. Raman imaging of the forbidden coesite‐disordered graphite assemblage fails to detect bands assigned to fluid components (e.g. CO2, N2, CH4, H2Oliq), but the Raman spectra of fluid inclusions in kyanite, garnet and quartz demonstrate the presence of CO2, N2, CH4, H2Oliq and disordered graphite. The disordered graphite most likely formed by precipitation from a C―O―H fluid during the retrograde stage. The fluid was entrapped by kyanite with coesite inclusions near the peak metamorphic conditions. The lack of disordered graphite around diamond crystals in our samples does not support the generally accepted origin of disordered graphite in ultra high pressure metamorphic rocks by partial diamond graphitization during exhumation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative micro‐Raman study on standard, cross‐linked and vitamin E‐blended polyethylene acetabular cups after long‐term in vitro testing and ageing
Authors: Taddei Paola , Pavoni Eleonora , Affatato Saverio
Published: June 2017

Ultra‐high molecular‐weight polyethylene has been used in total joint replacement for the last three decades. Many attempts have been made to improve the wear behaviour of this material. Highly cross‐linked polyethylene (XLPE) has been developed to decrease the wear rate, while the addition of stabilizers such as vitamin E has been proposed to slow the oxidation processes.

In this study, we compared the wear behaviour of conventional ultra‐high molecular‐weight polyethylene, XLPE and vitamin E‐added XLPE acetabular cups for total hip arthroplasty. The samples were run for five million cycles on a hip joint simulator (first test), then underwent an accelerated ageing treatment, were tested again for two million cycles (second test) and finally were run for another two million cycles in presence of third‐body particles (third test). Our study showed that vitamin E‐added XLPE cups had a better wear behaviour only in the long‐term and more severe testing conditions: in the third test, they underwent the lowest increase in wear rate. Micro‐Raman spectroscopy allowed us to analyse the wear degradation of the cups on a molecular scale, and differences in the wear mechanisms were revealed. The presence of vitamin E did not prevent structural changes upon the first test, while it did in ageing and in the second test. In the third test, more significant structural changes were observed; the XLPE cups, which lost the lowest mass, had the most modified articular surface. These morphological aspects should be taken into account, together with gravimetric wear rates, in the characterization of wear degradation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preoperative clinicopathological characteristics of patients with solitary encapsulated follicular variants of papillary thyroid carcinomas
Authors: Kwon Hyemi , Jeon Min Ji , Yoon Jong Ho , Hong Suck Joon , Lee Jeong Hyun , Kim Tae Yong , Shong Young Kee , Kim Won Bae , Kim Won Gu , Song Dong Eun
Published: June 2017

Background and Objectives

Clinical outcomes in patients with the follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC) tend to vary according to the pathological subtypes. We aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics including preoperative radiological and cytopathological diagnoses in patients with solitary encapsulated FVPTCs (EFVPTCs) to prove the preoperative assessment dilemma.

Methods

Patients with solitary FVPTCs who underwent thyroid surgery were included.

Results

Of 271 patients, 194 patients (72%) had EFVPTCs, whereas 77 patients (28%) had infiltrative FVPTCs (IFVPTCs). EFVPTCs had larger tumor sizes (P < 0.001) and lower frequencies of extrathyroidal extension (P < 0.001) and cervical lymph node (LN) metastasis (P < 0.001) than IFVPTCs. There were significant differences in ultrasonography (US) findings, preoperative cytopathological diagnosis, and the prevalence of BRAF mutations between EFVPTCs and IFVPTCs. Invasive EFVPTCs were diagnosed in 89 patients (33%) and non‐invasive EFVPTCs in 105 patients (39%). Non‐invasive subtype had smaller tumor sizes (P = 0.001) and lower frequencies of vascular invasion (P = 0.04) and cervical LN metastasis (P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in preoperative US findings and cytopathological diagnoses between invasive and non‐invasive EFVPTCs.

Conclusions

Clinicopathological characteristics of EFVPTCs, including preoperative US findings, are different from those of IFVPTCs. However, preoperative radiological and cytopathological findings could not distinguish non‐invasive and invasive EFVPTCs.
TMEM230: How does it fit in the etiology and pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease?
Authors: Mandemakers Wim , Quadri Marialuisa , Stamelou Maria , Bonifati Vincenzo
Published: June 2017

Mutations in the transmembrane protein 230 (TMEM230) gene were recently identified in a large Canadian pedigree and 7 smaller Chinese families, nominating TMEM230 as the third gene causing a Mendelian form of late onset Parkinson's disease (PD) with typical Lewy‐body pathology (after synuclein alpha (SNCA) and leucine rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2)). The protein encoded by TMEM230 remains largely uncharacterized, but initial evidence points to roles in the trafficking of recycling vesicles, retromers, and endosomes, suggesting intriguing links to the pathways targeted by other PD‐causing genes. The focus on family‐based studies is gaining new momentum in the next‐generation sequencing era, for the discovery of further, high‐penetrance (medically relevant) genetic variants in PD. However, at this junction, important aspects of the TMEM230 story remain unclear, such as the prevalence of these mutations in the Chinese and other populations of the world, the penetrance of the mutations, and even their mode of inheritance. The first replication studies among Chinese and White PD patients have been largely negative. Furthermore, much more work remains ahead to elucidate the mechanisms by which these mutations might lead to neuronal cell death, alpha‐synuclein pathology, and parkinsonism. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Gefaltete DNA für Diagnose und Therapie
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: June 2017

Aptamere sind DNA‐ oder RNA‐Moleküle, die aufgrund ihrer dreidimensionalen Struktur bestimmte Moleküle erkennen und binden. Verglichen mit ähnlich leistungsfähigen Antikörpern sind sie kompakter und leichter herzustellen und zu handhaben. Erste Anwendungen in der Medizin zeichnen sich ab.
einhundertundfünfzig
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: June 2017

Verblüffendes, Informatives, schon fast Vergessenes: Die Serie Zahlenstatistik des Monats liefert Fakten aus 150 Jahren. In diesem Monat geht es um Erfindungen, Marken und Patente.
Pro Akkreditierung: „Selbstreflexion anstoßen und Qualitätsentwicklung fördern“
Authors: Albert Barbara
Published: June 2017

In einem diversifizierten Wissenschaftssystem fördert Akkreditierung die Qualitätssicherung und ‐entwicklung, meint Barbara Albert.
Zweites Vernetzungstreffen der Praktikumsleiter Anorganische Chemie
Authors: Weinert Bastian
Published: June 2017

Für Anfang April 2017 luden GDCh und Wöhler‐Vereinigung zum zweiten Vernetzungstreffen der AC‐Praktikumsleiter an die Universität Köln ein. Uwe Ruschewitz, Professor für anorganische Chemie, hatte die Veranstaltung organisiert. 30 Praktikumsleiter von 27 Hochschulen Deutschlands und Österreichs diskutierten während der zweitägigen Veranstaltung über Aufbau und Inhalt anorganischer Praktika. Besonders intensiv sprachen sie über Studierende mit psychischen Problemen, Prüfungsängste, Konfliktfälle, Benotung von Praktikumsleistungen und Plagiate bei Praktikumsprotokollen.
Urban extreme rainfall events: categorical skill of WRF model simulations for localized and non‐localized events
Authors: Mohapatra G. N. , Rakesh V. , Ramesh K. V.
Published: June 2017

An objective method is used for determining the rainfall threshold for identifying extreme rainfall events (EREs) over the urban city, Bangalore, using observed rainfall data for a period of 35 years (1971–2005). Using this threshold, 52 EREs were identified during the period 2010–2014 using high‐resolution rain‐gauge observations. From these EREs, 15 localized and non‐localized events were chosen based on spatial distribution to examine the forecast skill of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Apart from the conventional verification methods, a number of skill scores and indices were defined for a comprehensive evaluation of rainfall model skill. In general, the forecast underpredicted the magnitude of localized and non‐localized EREs for the majority of cases; however, the model overpredicted light rainfall (≤10 mm day−1). The model showed a success rate of 59% in simulating light rainfall for localized EREs while 12% of events were missed and 29% were wrongly predicted. The success rate was significantly reduced at higher rainfall categories for localized and non‐localized EREs, where the forecast missed the majority of rainfall events. The Reliability Index (RI) computed clearly showed that model skill is relatively higher for non‐localized EREs compared to localized EREs. The average forecast reliability for non‐localized and localized EREs were 74 and 51%, respectively. For localized EREs, model skill is relatively higher in rainfall location prediction (61%) compared to area (44%) and intensity (46%) prediction; while in the case of non‐localized EREs, model skill is similar for location, intensity and area prediction. It is found that coupling an urban canopy model with WRF reduces the model errors particularly for lower rainfall thresholds.