bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycan‐masking hemagglutinin antigens from stable CHO cell clones for H5N1 avian influenza vaccine development
Authors: Chen Ting‐Hsuan , Liu Wen‐Chun , Lin Chia‐Ying , Liu Chia‐Chyi , Jan Jia‐Tsrong , Spearman Maureen , Butler Michael , Wu Suh‐Chin
Published: August 2018

Refocusing of B‐cell responses can be achieved by preserving the overall fold of the antigen structure but selectively mutating the undesired antigenic sites with additional N‐linked glycosylation motifs for glycan masking the vaccine antigen. We previously reported that glycan‐masking recombinant H5 hemagglutinin (rH5HA) antigens on residues 83, 127, and 138 (g127 + g138 or g83 + g127 + 138 rH5HA) elicited broader neutralizing antibodies and protection against heterologous clades/subclades of high pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 viruses. In this study, we engineered the stably expressing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell clones for producing the glycan‐masking g127 + g138 and g83 + g127 + g138 rH5HA antigens. All of these glycan‐masking rH5HA antigens produced in stable CHO cell clones were found to be mostly oligomeric structures. Only the immunization with the glycan‐masking g127 + g138 but not g83 + g127 + g138 rH5HA antigens elicited more potent neutralizing antibody titers against four out of five heterologous clades/subclades of H5N1 viral strains. The increased neutralizing antibody titers against these heterologous viral strains were correlated with the increased amounts of stem‐binding antibodies, only the glycan‐masking g127 + g138 rH5HA antigens can translate into more protection against live viral challenges. The stable CHO cell line‐produced glycan‐masking g127 + g138 rH5HA can be used for H5N1 subunit vaccine development.
The effects of alternating tangential flow (ATF) residence time, hydrodynamic stress, and filtration flux on high‐density perfusion cell culture
Authors: Walther Jason , McLarty Jean , Johnson Timothy
Published: August 2018

In this study, we investigated the effects of alternating tangential flow (ATF) cell separation on high‐density perfusion cultures. We have developed methods to estimate theoretical residence times of cells in the ATF system and discovered that long residence times (above 75 s) correlate with decreased growth, metabolism, and productivity. We have calculated energy dissipation rates in the ATF transfer line and filter and empirically studied the impacts of increased exchange rates on cell culture, determining that increased hydrodynamic stress can lead to decreased cell size, lactate production, and specific productivity. Finally, we have conducted experiments to understand the relationship between filtration fluxes and ATF membrane fouling, finding that at fluxes above 60 L·m–2·day
–1, protein sieving coefficients see significant rates of decrease (greater than 1% per day). While most of these studies have been conducted with one cell line at one target viable cell density (40 million cells/ml), the general, directional knowledge arising from this study should be applicable to other conditions and programs, ultimately leading to more robust and well‐designed perfusion processes.
Computational fluid dynamic modeling of alternating tangential flow filtration for perfusion cell culture
Authors: Radoniqi Flaka , Zhang Hu , Bardliving Cameron L. , Shamlou Parviz , Coffman Jon
Published: August 2018

Alternating tangential flow (ATF) filtration has been successfully adopted as a low shear cell separation device in many perfusion‐based processes. The reverse flow per cycle is used to minimize fouling compared with tangential flow filtration. Currently, modeling of the ATF system is based on empirically derived formulas, leading to oversimplification of model parameters. In this study, an experimentally validated porous computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model was used to predict localized fluid behavior and pressure profiles in the ATF membrane for both water and supernatant solutions. The results provided numerical evidence of Starling flow phenomena that has been theorized but not previously proven for the current operating parameters. Additionally, feed cross flow velocity was shown to significantly impact the localized flux distribution; higher feed cross flow rates lead to an increased localized permeate flux as well as irreversible and reversible fouling resistance. Further, the small average permeate flux values of 2 L·m−2·h−1traditionally used in perfusion bioreactor membranes lead to approximately 50% of the membrane length utilized for permeate flow during each pressure and exhaust phase, leading to a full membrane utilization during one ATF cycle. Our preliminary CFD results demonstrate that local flux and resistance distribution further elucidate the dynamics of ATF membrane fouling in a perfusion‐based system.
Genetik des Äußeren
Authors: Hoßfeld Uwe , Levit Georgy S. , Watts Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

Valentin Haecker gehört zu den Wegbereitern einer experimentellen und deskriptiven Biologie, Genetik und Entwicklungsphysiologie. In seiner 1918 aufgestellten „Entwicklungsgeschichtlichen Eigenschaftsanalyse“ (Phänogenetik) bemühte er sich, die Wurzeln der phänotypischen Darstellung in möglichst frühe Entwicklungsstadien zurückzuverfolgen. Seine Lehre verband wichtige biologische Disziplinen und Ergebnisse und gab Antworten auf die Beziehung von Phänotyp und Genotyp. Er erkannte auch, dass bei der Analyse von Genwirkungen, Morphologie, Physiologie, Embryologie und experimentelle Embryologie nur gemeinsam Erfolg bei der Interpretation der Ergebnisse haben würden.
Experimente mit Hefe (2)
Authors: Sommer Isabell
Published: August 2018

Die sogenannte Jodprobe eignet sich hervorragend dazu, in einfachen Experimenten basierend auf einer Farbreaktion die Rolle des Enzyms „Amylase“ beim Aufgehen eines Hefeteiges, bei der Verdauung von Kohlehydraten bzw. beim Reinigen von Geschirr in der Spülmaschine anschaulich zu demonstrieren. Die vorgestellten Experimente können dazu genutzt werden, die Frage zu klären, welche Alltagssubstanzen in der Lage sind, Stärke abzubauen bzw. ob ein Lebensmittel stärkehaltig ist. Die zentrale Fragestellung der Experimente ist, wie Hefe trotz „Stärke‐Intoleranz“ den Brotteig aufgehen lässt.
Evolution von Schwangerschaft und Entzündung
Authors: Kronberg Inge
Published: August 2018

Fremde Zellen, die in das eigene Gewebe eindringen – dieser Angriff alarmiert im Säugetier Botenstoffe des Immunsystems. Die nachfolgende Entzündungsreaktion sorgt dafür, dass die angegriffene Stelle besser durchblutet und durchlässiger für Immunzellen wird. Auch ein Embryo löst eine Immunantwort aus, sobald er sich an die Gebärmutterschleimhaut heftet. Vergleichende Untersuchungen der Genexpression im Uterus von Plazentatieren (Eutheria) und Beuteltieren (Marsupialia) zeigen, dass Plazentatiere den Entzündungsprozess vorteilhaft umkehren können.
Kohlenhydratspeicher der Algen
Authors: Hille‐Rehfeld Annette
Published: August 2018

Anstelle von Stärke speichern die meisten Algen β‐1,3‐Glucane mit unterschiedlichem Verzweigungsgrad. Deren Biosynthese, bei der das wachsende Polysaccharid durch die Membran des zellulären Depots transferiert wird, zeigt mehr Gemeinsamkeiten mit strukturbildenden Polysacchariden als mit der Stärke der grünen Pflanzen.
Die DNA und das „Speicher‐Paradoxon“
Authors: Quadbeck‐Seeger Hans‐Jürgen
Published: August 2018

Die Schwierigkeit, sich Vorgänge in der Nanowelt konkret vorzustellen, erfordert Modelle. Zeichnungen und Computer‐Animationen sind zwar hilfreich, aber didaktisch eingängiger sind konkrete Modelle. Moletomics™ ist ein Konzept, das sich einfach und kostengünstig nutzen lässt, um selbst die komplizierten Zusammenhänge bei dem Aufbau der DNA‐Doppelhelix erfahrbar und verständlich zu machen.
Effect of quality control on the antiproliferative activity of the extract from Portulaca oleracea L. in Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Li Xiu‐Mei , Liu Jing , Pan Fang‐Fang , Yang Pei‐Long
Published: August 2018

Similarity evaluation of complicated chromatographic profiles is a potential protocol for the identification and quality control of herbal medicinal products to ensure their biological activity. In this work, a high‐performance liquid chromatography method was established for controlling the batch quality of the extract from Portulaca oleracea L. Using this method, the coefficients of correlation of the similarity of 10 batches extract of P. oleracea L. were ≥ 0.97. The 10 batch extracts from P. oleracea L. possessed stable antiproliferative activity in Aspergillus flavus. The antiproliferative activity stability is correlated with the stability quality of the of the extract from P. oleracea L. Therefore, the present study successfully set up a sensitive and efficient method which might be used to guarantee stable biological activity of the extract from P. oleracea L.
MRI in predicting conversion to multiple sclerosis within 1 year
Authors: Eran Ayelet , García Melissa , Malouf Robair , Bosak Noam , Wagner Raz , Ganelin‐Cohen Ester , Artsy Elinor , Shifrin Alla , Rozenberg Ayal
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Most patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) present with a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). We aimed to verify previously reported imaging and clinical findings, and to identify new MRI findings that might serve as prognostic factors for a second clinical episode or a change in the MRI scan during the first year following a CIS.

Materials and Methods

We identified from our medical records, 46 individuals who presented with an episode of CIS, which was followed clinically and with imaging studies. A neuroradiologist blinded to the clinical data reviewed the images and recorded the number of lesions, lesion location, and the largest longitudinal diameter of the lesion.

Results

One year after the first MRI, 25 (54%) patients had progressed to MS. The clinical presentation of those who were and were not diagnosed with MS was predominantly motor or sensory deficit. Patients with lesions that were temporal, occipital, or perpendicular to the corpus callosum at the first episode were more likely to have recurrence. Individuals with a combination of more than 13 lesions, with maximal lesion length greater than 0.75 cm, and a lesion perpendicular to the corpus callosum, had a 19 times higher chance of conversion MS during the following year.

Conclusions

Assessment of the number of lesions, lesion location, and maximal lesion size can predict the risk to develop another clinical episode or a new lesion/new enhancement in MRI during the year after CIS. For patients with a higher risk of recurrence, we recommend closer follow‐up.
Green absorptive capacity: A mediation‐moderation model of knowledge for innovation
Authors: Pacheco Larissa Marchiori , Alves Marlon Fernandes Rodrigues , Liboni Lara Bartocci
Published: August 2018

Supported by the dynamic capabilities literature, this study examines the linkages between environmental factors, organizational factors and green innovation performance in light of the moderating effect of green absorptive capacity. Based on a sample of 78 firms in the electric power industry in Brazil, a mediation‐moderation model is proposed and tested using partial least squares structural equation modelling, which allows the analysis of both direct and indirect relationships. The results yielded general support for the study hypotheses, suggesting that (i) environmental factors have both a direct and indirect positive effect on green innovation performance, (ii) organizational factors fully mediate the effect of environmental factors on green innovation performance, and (iii) green absorptive capacity has a positive moderating impact on the mediation model. These findings provide empirical evidence of a better understanding of the antecedents of green innovation performance by highlighting the role of green absorptive capacity.
A holistic approach to understanding the acceptance of a community‐based renewable energy project: A pathway to sustainability for Tunisia's rural region
Authors: Mjahed Hammami Samiha , Chtourou Sahar , Al Moosa Heyam
Published: August 2018

While there is an increased need to streamline the deployment of sustainable energy projects and high public advocacy for their implementation, projects of this type are often met with public opposition once proposed in a local context. Even although several attempts have been advanced to explain this attitude‐behaviour dissension, these explanations remain partial in how they cover the local opposition issue. There is, in fact, a dearth of research investigating in an integrative way the underlying motivations and/or obstacles for local acceptance. Based on a case study of wind energy using triangulation among a variety of different sources of data from the stakeholders involved, this study aims to uncover how the acceptance of sustainable projects emerges in community contexts. Findings reveal the barriers and motivational factors behind the acceptance of sustainable projects that managers must integrate in their business strategies in the hope of successfully initiating and sustaining behaviour‐change programmes.
Engineered E. coli Nissle 1917 for the reduction of vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus in the intestinal tract
Authors: Geldart Kathryn G. , Kommineni Sushma , Forbes Madeline , Hayward Michael , Dunny Gary M. , Salzman Nita H. , Kaznessis Yiannis N.
Published: August 2018

Vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus (VRE) poses a serious threat in hospitals where they densely colonize the intestinal tracts of patients. In vulnerable hosts, these pathogens may translocate to the bloodstream and become lethal. The ability to selectively reduce VRE in the intestinal tracts of patients could potentially prevent many of these translocation events and reduce the spread of the pathogen. Herein, we have engineered Escherichia. coli Nissle 1917 to produce and secrete three antimicrobial peptides, Enterocin A, Enterocin B, and Hiracin JM79, to specifically target and kill Enterococcus. These peptides exhibited potent activity against both Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis, the two most prominent species responsible for VRE infections. We first discuss the optimization of the system used to express and secrete the peptides. We then show that by simultaneously expressing these peptides, both E. faecium and E. faecalis were drastically inhibited. We then demonstrate a suppression of the development of resistance when supernatant from the E. coli producer strains was used to treat E. faecium. Finally, we tested the efficacy of the probiotic in a VRE colonization model in mice. These studies showed that administration of the engineered probiotic significantly reduced the levels of both E. faecium and E. faecalis in the feces of male Balb/cJ mice.
A virtual scanner for teaching fundamental magnetic resonance in biomedical engineering
Authors: Wilhjelm Jens E. , Duun‐Henriksen Jonas , Hanson Lars G.
Published: August 2018

A virtual scanner for introductory teaching in magnetic resonance imaging in biomedical engineering is presented and evaluated in a randomized trial of ultra‐short and short‐term learning. The results show similar performance, but indicate higher motivation, when compared with a classical approach, when class duration was identical.
MiR‐486 promotes proliferation and suppresses apoptosis in myeloid cells by targeting Cebpa in vitro
Authors: Jiang Jingwei , Gao Qingmin , Gong Yiwei , Huang Lizhen , Lin Hao , Zhou Xinli , Liang Xiaohua , Guo Weijian
Published: August 2018

The monocytic MDSC (M‐MDSC) is one of the major types of MDSCs, which play important roles in suppression of antitumor immunity. However, the mechanisms underlying how M‐MDSCs so heavily accumulate in patients with cancer are still poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to identify miRNAs that regulate the proliferation and differentiation of M‐MDSCs. Microarray analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed miRNAs between tumor‐induced M‐MDSCs (TM‐MDSCs) and their counterparts from tumor‐free mice. The miRNAs and their target genes that regulate the proliferation and differentiation of myeloid cells were predicted by bioinformatics analysis and validated by RT‐qPCR. Luciferase reporter assays were used to analyze the relationships between miRNAs and target genes. Overexpression of candidate miRNAs and target genes in myeloid cells was conducted to verify their functions in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Our data showed that miR‐486 was overexpressed in TM‐MDSCs. Cebpa was predicted to be one of the target genes of miR‐486 that regulates the proliferation of myeloid cells. Expression of Cebpa was inversely correlated with miR‐486 in TM‐MDSCs, and we found that overexpression of miR‐486 suppressed the expression of Cebpa in both 293T cells determined by luciferase reporter assays and in myeloid cells determined by RT‐qPCR. Overexpression of miR‐486 promoted proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in myeloid cells, as opposed to overexpression of Cebpa, which promoted the opposing phenotype. Overexpression of either miR‐486 or Cebpa inhibited differentiation of myeloid cells. This study indicates that miR‐486 promotes proliferation and suppresses apoptosis in myeloid cells by targeting Cebpa in vitro, suggesting that miR‐486 and Cebpa might be involved in the expansion of TM‐MDSCs in tumor‐bearing mice.
NFATc1 is a tumor suppressor in hepatocellular carcinoma and induces tumor cell apoptosis by activating the FasL‐mediated extrinsic signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Sanrong , Shu Penghao , Zou Song , Shen Xiaofeng , Qu Yuanqian , Zhang Yong , Sun Kang , Zhang Jin
Published: August 2018

Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) is a family of transcription factors that have important functions in many tumors. However, the expression level and functional role of NFAT in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. In this study, we showed that NFATc1 expression was decreased in both HCC tissues and cell lines. Low expression of NFATc1 was correlated with larger tumor size, advanced tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage, high serum AFP level, and liver cirrhosis. Furthermore, patients with low NFATc1 expression exhibited poor prognosis. Ectopic expression of NFATc1 in HCC cells inhibited proliferation and colony formation, leading to G1 arrest and induction of apoptosis. In addition, we demonstrated that NFATc1 increased Fas ligand (FasL) expression by directly binding to its promoter and activated the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. NFATc1 and FasL expression patterns and their prognostic value for patients with HCC were also evaluated in TCGA Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma database. Knock‐down of FasL expression by siRNA in HCC cell lines abolished NFATc1's antiproliferative and pro‐apoptotic effects. In conclusion, NFATc1 is frequently inactivated in HCC and functions as a tumor suppressor in liver carcinogenesis. Ectopic expression of NFATc1 in HCC cells induces apoptosis by activating the FasL‐mediated extrinsic signaling pathway.
An Enzyme‐Mediated Amplification Strategy Enables Detection of β‐Lactamase Activity Directly in Unprocessed Clinical Samples for Phenotypic Detection of β‐Lactam Resistance
Authors: deBoer Tara R. , Tarlton Nicole J. , Yamaji Reina , Adams‐Sapper Sheila , Wu Tiffany Z. , Maity Santanu , Vesgesna Giri K. , Sadlowski Corinne M. , DePaola Peter , Riley Lee W. , Murthy Niren
Published: August 2018

Biochemical assays that can identify β‐lactamase activity directly from patient samples have the potential to significantly improve the treatment of bacterial infections. However, current β‐lactamase probes do not have the sensitivity needed to measure β‐lactam resistance directly from patient samples. Here, we report the development of an instrument‐free signal amplification technology, DETECT, that connects the activity of two enzymes in series to effectively amplify the activity of β‐lactamase 40 000‐fold, compared to the standard β‐lactamase probe nitrocefin.
RETRACTED: Lack of microRNA‐155 ameliorates renal fibrosis by targeting PDE3A/TGF‐β1/Smad signaling in mice with obstructive nephropathy
Authors: Xi Weiwei , Zhao Xuming , Wu Meijun , Jia Wenjuan , Li Hua
Published: August 2018

Although microRNA‐155 (miR‐155) is implicated in the pathogenesis of several fibrotic diseases, information regarding its functional role in renal fibrosis is limited. The current study aims to investigate the effects of miR‐155 on renal fibrosis in unilateral ureteral occlusion (UUO) mice. MiR‐155 level was significantly increased in renal tissues of UUO mice and TGF‐β1‐treated HK2 cells. Masson's trichrome staining showed that delivery of adeno‐associated virus encoding miR‐155 inhibitor led to a decrease in renal fibrosis induced by UUO. The increased expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1, collagen III and collagen IV was also inhibited after miR‐155 inhibition. In addition, miR‐155 knockdown also prevented TGF‐β1‐induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition, concomitantly with a restoration of E‐cadherin expression and a decrease of vimentin expression. Computational analysis revealed that miR‐155 directly targets at 3′UTR of PDE3A. Overexpression of miR‐155 suppressed the luciferase activity and protein expression of PDE3A, whereas inhibition of miR‐155 increased PDE3A luciferase activity and expression. Furthermore, miR‐155 inhibited TGF‐β1‐induced the increase of TGF‐β1 expression and Smad‐2/3 phosphorylation in HK2 cells. In contrast, knockdown of PDE3A reversed the effect of miR‐155 inhibition on TGF‐β1 expression. This study demonstrates that knockdown of miR‐155 attenuates renal fibrosis via inhibiting TGF‐β1/Smad signaling activation by targeting the upstream molecule PDE3A. This study suggests that miR‐155 inhibition may be a novel therapeutic approach for preventing fibrotic kidney diseases.
“Just one more turn!” Why kids love video games and why adults worry about them
Authors: Schleifer Justin
Published: August 2018

When it comes to areas of misunderstanding between children and their parents, video games are often at the top of the list. Beyond parents not always understanding the appeal of video games, dispute over access is an almost daily occurrence in many households, often leaving children and parents frustrated alike. Parents may have their own reasons for limiting access, but aside from the obvious issue of children excessively engaging in a single activity at the expense of other activities, video game use has been linked to mood and behavior changes as well as addiction.
Is the S.M.A.R.T® stent the smart option to treat femoropopliteal disease?
Authors: Patel Nachiket J. , Heuser Richard R.
Published: August 2018

KEY POINTS

The femoropopliteal (FP) artery is a common site for endovascular interventions.

S.M.A.R.T.® stent is effective in treating FP lesions with results comparable to other treatment options.

Without head‐to‐head randomized controlled trials, the ideal treatment strategy for FP lesions remains unknown.
PFO closure: Where are the neurologists?
Authors: Blankenship James C
Published: August 2018

Key Points

A meta‐analysis of five randomized controlled trials of closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) versus medical therapy to prevent recurrent stroke shows a statistically significant absolute 2% decrease in recurrent stroke but no difference in death.

Patients treated with PFO closure have an absolute 2% increase in the risk of atrial fibrillation, usually transient, after the procedure, as well as increased risk of procedural complications, which are usually minor.

Guidelines on PFO closure were written before most data in this meta‐analysis were available. Those guidelines are now outdated.
Propensity matched comparison of in‐hospital outcomes of TAVR vs. SAVR in patients with previous history of CABG: Insights from the Nationwide inpatient sample
Authors: Nalluri Nikhil , Atti Varunsiri , Patel Nileshkumar J. , Kumar Varun , Arora Shilpkumar , Nalluri Sreeram , Nelluri Bhargava Krishna , Maniatis Gregory A. , Kandov Ruben , Kliger Chad
Published: August 2018

Background

The incidence of patients with previous history of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) presenting for aortic valvular replacement has been consistently on the rise. Repeat sternotomy for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) carries an inherent risk of morbidity and mortality when compared to Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods

The Nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) from 2012 to 2014 was queried using the International Classification of Diseases‐Ninth edition, Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) codes to identify all patients ≥ 18 years with prior CABG who underwent TAVR (35.05 and 35.06) or SAVR (35.21 and 35.22). Propensity score matching (1:1) was performed and in‐hospital outcomes were compared between matched cohorts.

Results

From 2012 to 2014, there was progressive increase in the annual number of TAVR procedures from 1485 to 4020, with a decrease in patients undergoing SAVR from 2330 to 1955 (Ptrend < 0.0001) in the above population. There was no significant difference in in‐hospital mortality rates. Compared to SAVR, TAVR was associated with lower risk of stroke (1.2% vs. 3.3%, P = 0.009), AKI (12.9% vs. 21.3%, P < 0.0001), myocardial infarction (0.9% vs. 2.7%, P = 0.01) and major bleeding (9.1% vs. 25.1%, P < 0.0001). TAVR was associated with higher risk of pacemaker implants (9.6% vs. 4.9%, P = 0.001) and trend toward lower risk of vascular complications (2.3% vs. 4.1%, P = 0.05).

Conclusion

In this large cohort of patients with previous CABG, there is no significant difference in in‐hospital mortality between TAVR and SAVR. TAVR was associated with lower risk of in‐hospital outcomes.
Effect of saline administration on left atrial pressure during transcatheter mitral valve repair
Authors: Lloyd James W. , Reeder Guy S. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To measure the intraprocedural change in left atrial pressure (LAP) with saline administration during transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR).

Background

TMVR with MitraClip offers an alternative to surgery in select patients. During this procedure, large volumes of fluid are routinely administered with anesthesia and to facilitate transcatheter valve repair. LAP, a measure used to guide repair, may thereby change as a result of volume expansion, suggesting a need for continuous intracardiac pressure monitoring.

Methods

Consecutive patients with severe mitral regurgitation underwent TMVR with MitraClip and continuous LAP monitoring through a dedicated sampling catheter. Specific LAP values were acquired immediately after transseptal access; before first clip deployment; and after deployment of the last clip.

Results

151 patients (age 80 ± 8 years, 64% male) underwent TMVR with MitraClip and continuous LAP monitoring. Mean LAP and v‐wave pressure increased significantly from baseline to pre‐MitraClip deployment (P < 0.0001) and decreased significantly from deployment to procedure end (P < 0.0001). Linear regression of v‐wave pressure change (from procedure start to clip deployment) relative to volume administration yielded a significantly nonzero slope (0.28 mmHg/min, P < 0.0001, r = 0.30).

Conclusion

Fluid administration during TMVR leads to time‐dependent increases in LAP. Such intraprocedural change underscores the need for targeted, if not continuous, LAP measurement during TMVR to optimize MitraClip placement and mitral regurgitation reduction.
Fabrication of One Dimensional MnO2‐TiO2 Nano‐Heterostructures for Enhanced Hole Mediated Oxidation of As(III) in Potable Water
Authors: Sarkar Arpan , Sarkar Ayan , Paul Biswajit , Khan Gobinda Gopal
Published: August 2018

The conversion of the toxic As(III) from drinking water is a challenging task and it becomes more difficult when As(III) is present in low concentrations (50–200 ppb). Considering this, the present article demonstrates an easy and cost effective wet chemical synthesis of MnO2−TiO2 nanoheterostructures (NHs) and its application as the electrode for the oxidation and subsequent conversion of the comparatively low concentration of As(III) from drinking water. The MnO2−TiO2 NHs have been employed as the anode to enhance the hole mediated fast and effective oxidation and subsequent conversion of As(III) from water under the applied bias of 1 V vs. Ag/AgCl at room temperature (30 °C) with the water pH ∼7 in a three‐electrode electrochemical cell. The nano‐interfacial electronic band engineering at MnO2‐TiO2 heterointerface is found to be very effective to boost the hole mediated oxidation of As(III). The same NHs also exhibit enhanced photo‐electrochemical oxidation of As(III) under the illumination of low‐intensity white light. The photo‐oxidation in assistance with the applied bias has considerably improved the overall conversion efficiency of As(III) to As(V) in water with a treatment time of just five minutes. The study shows that the material and the method described here is an easy and effective strategy for the enhanced preoxidation and subsequent elimination of As(III) from the drinking water with a low arsenic concentration in the typical weather of Indian subcontinent.
In Situ Fabrication of 3D Octahedral g‐C3N4/BiFeWOx Double‐Heterojunction for Highly Selective CO2 Photoreduction to CO Under Visible Light
Authors: Wang Yanan , Zeng Yiqing , Wan Shipeng , Cai Wei , Song Fujiao , Zhang Shule , Zhong Qin
Published: August 2018

A series of g‐C3N4/BiFeWOx composites (GN‐x/BFW) with double‐heterojunction composites as photocatalysts for efficient and stable CO2 photoreduction had been rationally designed and synthesized by the facile in situ hydrothermal method. In situ growing BFW on g‐C3N4 sheets achieved that the g‐C3N4 was embedded in the inner of BFW as well as wrapped on the surfaces of BFW. The obtained heterojunction composites greatly inhibited the recommendation of photogenerated electron/hole pairs and enhanced the light respond on the visible light due to the tight chemically bonded interface interaction. Benefiting from the unique structure, the optimized GN‐5.0 %/BFW heterostructure catalyst showed a higher performance of photoreduction CO2 to CO (43 μmol h−1 g−1) than that of pure BFW (5.2 μmol h−1 g−1) and g‐C3N4 (8.9 μmol h−1 g−1) under visible light irradiation at 10 °C. Besides, the GN‐x/BFW composites exhibited outstanding recycling photostability and structural stability. A possible Z‐scheme mechanism was proposed according to the staggered band potentials between g‐C3N4 and BFW and ESR results. Similarly, this facile synthetic method could be employed to fabricate other composites to accelerate the photocatalytic performance.
Esterification of Tertiary Amides by Alcohols Through C−N Bond Cleavage over CeO2
Authors: Toyao Takashi , Nurnobi Rashed Md. , Morita Yoshitsugu , Kamachi Takashi , Hakim Siddiki S. M. A. , Ali Md. A. , Touchy A. S. , Kon Kenichi , Maeno Zen , Yoshizawa Kazunari , Shimizu Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2018

CeO2 has been found to promote ester forming alcoholysis reactions of tertiary amides. The present catalytic system is operationally simple, recyclable, and it does not require additives. The esterification process displays a wide substrate scope (>45 examples; up to 93 % isolated yield). Results of a density functional theory (DFT) study combined with in situ FT‐IR observations indicate that the process proceeds through rate limiting addition of a CeO2 lattice oxygen to the carbonyl group of the adsorbed acetamide species with energy barrier of 17.0 kcal/mol. This value matches well with experimental value (17.9 kcal/mol) obtained from analysis of the Arrhenius plot. Further studies by in situ FT‐IR and temperature programmed desorption using probe molecules demonstrate that both acidic and basic properties are important, and consequently, CeO2 showed the best performance for the C−N bond cleavage reaction.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Study of Heat Transfer in Turbulent Fluidized Beds
Authors: Yip Li Xian , Lim Eldin Wee Chuan
Published: August 2018

The fluidization and heat transfer behaviors of a turbulent fluidized bed were investigated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The effects of inlet superficial velocity on heat transfer behaviors in a turbulent fluidized bed were analyzed and compared with those operated in other fluidization regimes. The effects of using particles belonging to different Geldart groups in a turbulent fluidized bed on fluidization and heat transfer behaviors were evaluated. For both fluidization regimes investigated, the solids temperature distribution during the heat transfer process became less uniform when the particle size was reduced.
Hybridization of Binary Non‐Precious‐Metal Nanoparticles with d‐Ti3C2 MXene for Catalyzing the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Chen Liangguang , Lin Yingxi , Fu Junying , Xie Jian , Chen Rong , Zhang Haiyan
Published: August 2018

In this work, an advanced integrated electrode for high‐performance electrocatalytic oxygen reduction is designed and fabricated directly by in‐situ hybridization of binary non‐precious metal (Fe−Co) ethylenediamine chelate complexes with multi‐layered d‐Ti3C2 MXene nanoflakes, in the formation of FeCo (3 : 1)‐N‐d‐Ti3C2 MXene. The catalyst exhibits outstanding oxygen reduction reaction activity with more positive onset potential and half‐wave potential than commercial 20 wt.% Pt/C and achieves a current density of 5.60 mA ⋅ cm−2 in O2‐saturated 0.1 M KOH electrolyte solution. Furthermore, remarkable stability and methanol tolerance can be detected. The outstanding activity and stability can be attributed to the fact that the FeCoEDA chelate nanoparticles are successfully grafted onto the d‐Ti3C2 MXene nanoflake substrate instead of being deposited. Thus, aggregation of the particles is prevented and a large specific surface area is provided, enhancing charge transfer reactions. We conclude that the in‐situ hybridization of MXenes with non‐precious metal compounds is a promising candidate for replacing traditional Pt‐based catalyst materials for oxygen reduction in fuel cells.
Radical‐Type Reactivity and Catalysis by Single‐Electron Transfer to or from Redox‐Active Ligands
Authors: van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar
Published: August 2018

Controlled ligand‐based redox‐activity and chemical non‐innocence are rapidly gaining importance for selective (catalytic) processes. This Concept aims to provide an overview of the progress regarding ligand‐to‐substrate single‐electron transfer as a relatively new mode of operation to exploit ligand‐centered reactivity and catalysis based thereon.
Aqueous Flow Batteries: Research and Development
Authors: Liu Wanqiu , Lu Wenjing , Zhang Huamin , Li Xianfeng
Published: August 2018

Flow batteries (FBs) have become a central topic recently, due to their promising prospect of addressing the issues of the random and intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. However, the successful industrialization of current FB systems is still limited by their relatively low energy densities and high cost. Research and development into novel aqueous FB systems with high energy density, high safety, and low cost are accordingly urgently required. Some novel aqueous FB systems have been explored in recent years to overcome issues of traditional FBs and vanadium FBs, in particular. Further modifications have also been made to improve their performance. In this review, appealing novel aqueous FB systems, such as zinc‐ and quinone‐based FB systems, are reviewed, in terms of the operating principles, advantages, drawbacks, corresponding performance, and subsequent modifications. Moreover, recent investigations and advancements, and prospective research directions for novel aqueous FB systems, are summarized. Therefore, this review will provide guidance and perspectives for developing new aqueous FB systems.
Poly‐γ‐p‐Biphenylmethyl‐Glutamate as Enantiodifferentiating Alignment Medium for NMR Spectroscopy with Temperature‐Tunable Properties
Authors: Jeziorowski Sharon , Thiele Christina M.
Published: August 2018

The use of anisotropic NMR parameters—especially residual dipolar couplings (RDCs)—offers access to additional structural information and, therefore, alignment media required for this approach are under a continuous development. Here, we present poly‐γ‐p‐biphenylmethyl‐glutamate (PBPMG) as a new versatile enantiodifferentiating alignment medium. The thermoresponsive properties of this polymer allowed for RDC measurements of more than one orientation within the same sample at different temperatures. Moreover, the outstanding enantiodifferentiation along with excellent spectral quality even offered the opportunity to differentiate enantiomers in mixtures.
The Halogen Bond: An Emerging Supramolecular Tool in the Design of Functional Mesomorphic Materials
Authors: Wang Hao , Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Urbas Augustine M. , Bunning Timothy J. , Li Quan
Published: August 2018

Owing to their dynamic attributes, non‐covalent supramolecular interactions have enabled a new paradigm in the design and fabrication of multifunctional material systems with programmable properties, performances, and reconfigurable traits. Recently, the “halogen bond” has become an enticing supramolecular synthetic tool that displays a plethora of promising and advantageous characteristics. Consequently, this versatile and dynamic non‐covalent interaction has been extensively harnessed in various fields such as crystal engineering, self‐assembly, materials science, polymer chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry and nanotechnology. In recent years, halogen bonding has emerged as a tunable supramolecular synthetic tool in the design of functional liquid‐crystalline materials with adjustable phases and properties. In this Concept article, the use of halogen bond in the field of stimuli‐responsive smart soft materials, that is, liquid crystals is discussed. The design, synthesis and characterization of molecular and macromolecular liquid crystalline materials are described and the modulation of their properties has been emphasized. The power of halogen bonding in offering a large variety of functional liquid crystalline materials from readily accessible mesomorphic and non‐mesomorphic complementary building blocks is highlighted. The article concludes with a perspective on the challenges and opportunities in this emerging endeavor towards the realization of enabling and elegant dynamic functional materials.
Substituent Effects in the Silylation of Secondary Alcohols: A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Marin‐Luna Marta , Patschinski Pascal , Zipse Hendrik
Published: August 2018

Relative rates for the silylation of C4‐substituted 1‐(naphthalen‐1‐yl)ethanol substrates with tert‐butyldimethylsilyl chloride (TBSCl) in CDCl3 catalyzed by 9‐azajulolidine (TCAP) have been measured. Hammett plot analysis of the resulting selectivity data yields two intersecting linear correlations. A small positive slope of ρ=+0.09 is observed for donor‐substituted alcohols, while silylation rates for acceptor‐substituted alcohols correlate best with a slightly larger negative slope (ρ=−0.48). The reaction of methanol with TBSCl catalyzed by 4‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP) has been studied at several different theoretical levels in chloroform solution. Silyl‐group transfer between silylated DMAP and methanol occur over an exceedingly flat surface with barely defined minima and transition states. Reaction pathway calculations for the Lewis base and general base catalyzed mechanisms for reaction of TBSCl with C4‐substituted 1‐(naphthalen‐1‐yl)ethanol compounds predict a close competition of both pathways.
Binding Studies on a Library of Induced‐Fit Synthetic Carbohydrate Receptors with Mannoside Selectivity
Authors: Palanichamy Kalanidhi , Bravo M. Fernando , Shlain Milan A. , Schiro Frank , Naeem Yasir , Marianski Mateusz , Braunschweig Adam B.
Published: August 2018

Synthetic carbohydrate receptors could serve as agents for disease detection, drug delivery, or even therapeutics, however, they are rarely used for these applications because they bind weakly and with a preference towards the all‐equatorial glucosides that are not prevalent on the cell surface. Herein the binding of 8 receptors with 5 distinct octyloxy pyranosides, which was measured by mass spectrometry and by1H NMR titrations in CD2Cl2at 298 K, is reported, providing binding affinities that vary from ≈101–104 m−1. Although the receptors are promiscuous,1shows selectivity for β‐Man at a ratio of 103:1 β‐Man:β‐Gal, receptors2–4and6have preference for α‐Man,5is selective for β‐Gal, and10prefers α‐Glc (Man=mannose; Gal=galactose, Glc=glucose). A variety of 1D and 2D NMR, and computational techniques were used to determine the thermodynamic binding parameters (ΔHoand ΔSo) and the structure of the host–guest complex, revealing that dimeric receptor10binds β‐Man with increased enthalpy, but a larger entropic penalty than1. The first‐principles modelling suggests that10⋅β‐Man forms an inclusion‐type complex where the glycan engages both monomeric subunits of10through H‐bonding and C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions. Like natural glycan‐binding proteins, these receptors bind pyranosides by accessing multivalent and cooperative interactions, and these studies suggest a new approach towards biomimetic synthetic carbohydrate receptors, where conformational flexibility and promiscuity are incorporated into design.
Tuning of High Spin Ground State and Slow Magnetic Relaxation within Trimetallic Cyanide‐Bridged {NiIIxCoII9−x[WV(CN)8]6} and {MnIIxCoII9−x[WV(CN)8]6} Clusters
Authors: Chorazy Szymon , Majcher Anna M. , Kozieł Marcin , Kobylarczyk Jedrzej , Ohkoshi Shin‐ichi , Podgajny Robert
Published: August 2018

Two series of trimetallic {NiIIxCoII9−x[WV(CN)8]6} (NiCoW) and {MnIIxCoII9−x[WV(CN)8]6} (MnCoW) (x=1–8) crystalline solid‐solutions were constructed and systematically studied by SEM EDX, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SC XRD), and magnetic measurements. The atomic Ni:Co:W and Mn:Co:W ratios in the solid state follow the stoichiometric concentration in the mother MeOH solutions fairly well. The structural studies revealed a definite strong tendency of smaller 3d ions to locate in the central [M(μ‐NC)6] moiety of the skeleton: NiII over the CoII and CoII over MnII. In contrast, the external fac‐[M(μ‐NC)3(MeOH)3] are consecutively occupied by the mixture of 3d metal ions, accessible according to the stoichiometry of the mother solutions. The DC magnetic χT(T) and M(H) curves illustrate the continuous tendency of change with x along both series, nicely reproducing the changes of the theoretical high spin in the ground state Sgr, assuming the ferromagnetic HSCoII‐NC‐WV and antiferromagnetic MnII‐NC‐WV interactions established by numerous literature reports. The AC magnetic measurements indicate the occurrence of slow magnetic relaxation, with the highest energy barrier ΔE/kB of 26 K for the Ni6Co3W6 congener and of 17 K for the Mn6Co3W6 congener, and relatively large values of distribution parameter α. The values of ΔE are correlated with possible anisotropy of distribution of fac‐[CoII(μ‐NC)3(MeOH)3] moieties at the external corners of the cube substructure.
Homogeneous and Gas–Liquid Catellani‐Type Reaction Enabled by Continuous‐Flow Chemistry
Authors: Casnati Alessandra , Gemoets Hannes P. L. , Motti Elena , Della Ca' Nicola , Noël Timothy
Published: August 2018

A practical homogeneous and gas‐liquid palladium‐catalyzed Catellani‐type reaction using a continuous‐flow platform is described. The implementation of continuous‐flow technology allowed the acceleration of the transformation and, for the first time, expansion of the chemical space to gaseous olefins (i.e., ethylene, propylene and 3,3,3‐trifluoropropene), thus providing a safe and practical approach to sterically hindered ortho‐disubstituted styrenes and vinyl arenes. The complete control over the stoichiometry of gaseous reagents through flow technology proved essential for directing the selectivity of the Catellani reaction to the desired products.
Synthesis of Heavy Dicyanamide Homologues from Air‐Stable Precursors
Authors: Binder Justin F. , Kosnik Stephanie C. , St Onge P. Blake J. , Macdonald Charles L. B.
Published: August 2018

A convenient synthesis of dicyanophosphide and dicyanoarsenide anions is reported. These heavy homologues of the long‐known and fundamentally important dicyanamide anion were formed through the nucleophilic displacement of bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe) from the pnictogen+ transfer agents [dppePn][BPh4] (Pn=P, As) by exposure to cyanide salts. The protocol requires three synthetic steps from commercially available materials and the [dppePn][BPh4] salts are remarkably temperature, air, and moisture stable. All products have been fully characterized by spectroscopic methods and by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, and the electronic structures of the DCPn anions have been assessed computationally.
Homochiral Double Helicates Based on Cyclooctatetrathiophene: Chiral Self‐Sorting with the Intramolecular S⋅⋅⋅N Interaction
Authors: Tian Yu , Wang Guangxia , Ma Zhiying , Xu Li , Wang Hua
Published: August 2018

The design and synthesis of homochiral double helicates are reported that are constructed by means of Ag‐induced supramolecular self‐sorting of saddle‐shaped cyclooctatetrathiophene‐based pyridine ligands (1 and 2). The intramolecular S⋅⋅⋅N interaction ensures that the thiophene and pyridine rings of ligands 1 and 2 are in coplanar and syn‐locked structures. In the presence of Ag+, the racemic ligands 1 and 2 only afforded homochiral double helicates, indicating effective chiral self‐sorting process under the influence of the S⋅⋅⋅N interaction. The X‐ray crystal structure of 12Ag2 reveals a pair of homochiral double helicates (R,R,R,R)‐12Ag2 and (S,S,S,S)‐12Ag2. Furthermore, chiral resolution of racemic ligand 1 was achieved by chiral‐phase HPLC, and the enantiomers and their corresponding enantiopure Ag complexes were characterized.
Mechanistic Analysis and Characterization of Intermediates in the Phosphane‐Catalyzed Oligomerization of Isocyanates
Authors: Helberg Julian , Oe Yohei , Zipse Hendrik
Published: August 2018

The mechanism of the oligomerization of aliphatic isocyanates catalyzed by trialkylphosphanes has been studied through low temperature 31P and 15N NMR spectroscopy combined with computational chemistry. A revised mechanism is proposed that contains several (spiro)cyclic pentacoordinate phosphorous intermediates. Previously reported spectroscopic data of a transient intermediate has been reevaluated and assigned to a cyclic intermediate containing a P−N bond by experiments with 15N‐labeled isocyanate. 13C, 15N, and 31P NMR shifts that support this assignment have been calculated using quantum chemical methods.
Effect of alkaline‐earth metals on synthesis of isobutyraldehyde from methanol and ethanol over Cu‐MeOx/Ti‐SBA‐15 catalysts (Me = Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba)
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Zhang Meng , Wu Yingquan , Zhang Tao , Han Yizhuo , Tan Yisheng
Published: August 2018

Cu‐MeO/Ti‐SBA‐15 catalysts (Me = Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba) were used for isobutyraldehyde (IBA) synthesis from methanol and ethanol and characterized by various techniques including XRD, N2 sorption, CO2‐TPD, XPS, etc. Doping different alkaline‐earth meals (Me = Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba) to Cu/Ti‐SBA‐15 can significantly affect catalytic performance in IBA synthesis. Based on characterizations, different alkaline‐earth metal doping significantly affects the amount of basic sites and the basic strength of the catalyst surface and their interaction with active Cu and other components. Therefore, the higher activity of the catalyst is closely related to larger amounts of basic sites, stronger basicity, and stronger interaction between Cu and MeO.