bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid Analysis of Cell–Nanoparticle Interactions using Single‐Cell Raman Trapping Microscopy
Authors: Steinke Maria , Zunhammer Florian , Chatzopoulou Elisavet I. , Teller Henrik , Schütze Karin , Walles Heike , Rädler Joachim O. , Grüttner Cordula
Published: February 2018

Iron oxide nanoparticles have been used in preclinical studies to label stem cells for non‐invasive tracking and homing. The search continues for novel particle candidates that are suitable for clinical applications. Since standard analyses to investigate cell–particle interactions and safety are labor‐intensive, an efficient procedure is required to guide future particle development and to exclude adverse health effects. The application of combined Raman trapping microscopy with fluidic chips is reported for the analysis of single cells labeled with different types of aminated iron oxide particles. Multivariate data analysis revealed Raman signal differences that could be clearly assigned to cell–particle interactions and cytotoxicity, respectively. A validation dataset verified that more than 95 % of the spectra were correctly classified. Thus, our approach enables rapid discrimination of non‐hazardous from cytotoxic nanoparticles as a prerequisite for safe clinical applications.
Metal‐Free Dehydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles by Ternary h‐BCN Nanosheets with Visible Light
Authors: Zheng Meifang , Shi Jiale , Yuan Tao , Wang Xinchen
Published: February 2018

An efficient metal‐free catalytic system has been developed based on hexagonal boron carbon nitride (h‐BCN) nanosheets for the dehydrogenation of N‐heterocycles with visible light; hydrogen gas is released in the process, and thus no proton acceptor is needed. This acceptorless dehydrogenation of hydroquinolines, hydroisoquinolines, and indolines to the corresponding aromatic N‐heterocycles occurred in excellent yield under visible‐light irradiation at ambient temperature. With h‐BCN as the photocatalyst and water as the solvent, this environmentally benign protocol shows broad substitution tolerance and high efficiency.
Chaotropic Monovalent Anion‐Induced Rectification Inversion at Nanopipettes Modified by Polyimidazolium Brushes
Authors: He Xiulan , Zhang Kailin , Liu Yang , Wu Fei , Yu Ping , Mao Lanqun
Published: February 2018

A nonintuitive observation of monovalent anion‐induced ion current rectification inversion at polyimidazolium brush (PimB)‐modified nanopipettes is presented. The rectification inversion degree is strongly dependent on the concentration and species of monovalent anions. For chaotropic anions (for example, ClO4−), the rectification inversion is easily observed at a low concentration (5 mm), while there is no rectification inversion observed for kosmotropic anions (Cl−) even at a high concentration (1 m). Moreover, at the specific concentration (for example, 10 mm), the variation of rectification ratio on the type of anions is ranged by Hofmeister series (Cl−≥NO3−>BF4−>ClO4−>PF6−>Tf2N−). Estimation of the electrokinetic charge density (σek) demonstrates that rectification inversion originates from the charge inversion owing to the over‐adsorption of chaotropic monovalent anion. To qualitatively understand this phenomenon, a concentration‐dependent adsorption mechanism is proposed.
Fluoride‐Catalyzed Deblocking: A Route to Polymeric Urethanes
Authors: Sheri Madhu , Choudhary Umesh , Grandhee Sunitha , Emrick Todd
Published: February 2018

We report a fluoride‐catalyzed deblocking of urethanes as “blocked” isocyanates. Organic and inorganic sources of fluoride ion proved effective for deblocking urethanes and for converting polyurethanes to small molecules. Distinct from conventional deblocking chemistry involving organometallic compounds and high temperatures, the method we describe is metal‐free and operates at or slightly above room temperature. The use of fluorescent blocking agents enabled visual and spectroscopic monitoring of blocking/deblocking reactions, and the selected conditions proved applicable to urethanes containing a variety of blocking groups. The method additionally enabled a one pot deblocking and polymerization with α,ω‐diols. Overall, this deblocking/polymerization strategy offers a convenient and efficient solution to problems that have limited the breadth of applications of polyurethane chemistry.
Pathway Complexity Versus Hierarchical Self‐Assembly in N‐Annulated Perylenes: Structural Effects in Seeded Supramolecular Polymerization
Authors: Greciano Elisa E. , Matarranz Beatriz , Sánchez Luis
Published: February 2018

Studies were carried out on the hierarchical self‐assembly versus pathway complexity of N‐annulated perylenes 1–3, which differ only in the nature of the linking groups connecting the perylene core and the side alkoxy chains. Despite the structural similarity, compounds 1 and 2 exhibit noticeable differences in their self‐assembly. Whereas 1 forms an off‐pathway aggregate I that converts over time (or by addition of seeds) into the thermodynamic, on‐pathway product, 2 undergoes a hierarchical process in which the kinetically trapped monomer species does not lead to a kinetically controlled supramolecular growth. Finally, compound 3, which lacks the amide groups, is unable to self‐assemble under identical experimental conditions and highlights the key relevance of the amide groups and their position to govern the self‐assembly pathways.
Preparation of sound‐insulating material based on discarded cow hair
Authors: Zhang Yiwei , Zhang Benmin , Shan Zhihua
Published: February 2018

In this article, we report a study on new functional materials based on the structural features of hair. In this study, discarded cow hair was treated with acid and hydrogen peroxide, dried, and pulverized to obtain a hair powder (HP). A sound‐insulating film (SIF) was prepared via the mixing of HP with acrylic resin [poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)]. On the basis of the function for the SIF, the formation conditions, including the HP weight percentage, film‐forming temperature, and solvent, were investigated. The sound‐insulating properties were studied and compared with commercially available sound‐insulating materials. The SIF had an equivalent sound‐insulating power to that of an asphalt‐based or a rubber‐based board but a better power than that of a polyurethane (PU)‐foam‐based board with identical thicknesses in the 20–20,000 Hz sound wave. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46332.
Rheological characterization and modeling of vulcanization kinetics of natural rubber/starch blends
Authors: Alwaan Ismaeel Moslam
Published: February 2018

Vulcanization kinetics of natural rubber/starch (NR/ST) blends was investigated by oscillating disc rheometer. The scorch and cure times are significantly reduced with the loading of starch in all blends from 1.15 and 2.22 to 0.91 and 1.88 min, respectively, to improve curing rate. Meanwhile, the maximum torque values and the maximum vulcanization rate of NR/ST blend increase with the starch loading from 1.51 N m and 0.387 min−1 to 2.224 N m and 0.492 min−1 respectively. The results of vulcanization kinetics of NR and its blends revealed that it is controlled by two‐stages, chemical and diffusion. The experimental data of the vulcanization rate of NR/ST blends did not fit with autocatalytic kinetic model except the pure natural rubber. Therefore, the Criado method was used and it was observed that the reaction kinetic model of pure NR and its blends with starch is best described by the D diffusion model (D2). © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46347.
Stabilization of the Pentazolate Anion in Three Anhydrous and Metal‐Free Energetic Salts
Authors: Xu Yuangang , Lin Qiuhan , Wang Pengcheng , Lu Ming
Published: February 2018

According to previous reports, metal cations or water molecules are necessary for the stabilization of pentazolate anion (cyclo‐N5−) at ambient temperature and pressure. Seeking a new method to stabilize N5− is a big challenge. In this work, three anhydrous, metal‐free energetic salts based on cyclo‐N5− 3,9‐diamino‐6,7‐dihydro‐5 H‐bis([1,2,4]triazolo)[4,3‐e:3′,4′‐g][1,2,4,5] tetrazepine‐2,10‐diium, N‐carbamoylguanidinium, and oxalohydrazinium (oxahy+) pentazolate were synthesized and isolated. All salts were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, 1H, 13C, and (in some cases) 15N NMR spectroscopy, thermal analysis (TGA and DSC), and single‐crystal XRD analysis. Computational studies associated with heats of formation and detonation performance were performed by using Gaussian 09 and Explo5 programs, respectively. The sensitivity of the salts towards impact and friction was determined, and overall the real N5 explosives showed promising energetic properties.
Sugar yield and composition of tubers from Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) irrigated with saline waters
Authors: Bhagia Samarthya , Ferreira Jorge F. S. , Kothari Ninad , Nunez Angelica , Liu Xuan , da Silva Dias Nildo , Suarez Donald L. , Kumar Rajeev , Wyman Charles E.
Published: February 2018

Currently, major biofuel crops are also food crops that demand fertile soils and good‐quality water. Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus, Asteraceae) produces high tonnage of tubers that are rich in sugars, mainly in the form of inulin. In this study, plants of the cultivar “White Fuseau” grown under five salinity levels were evaluated for tuber yield. Results indicated that this cultivar is moderately salt‐tolerant if the goal is tuber production. Hydraulic pressings of the tubers produced juice that contained 15% (wet weight) or 55% (dry weight) free sugars, with 70% of these in the form of inulin and the rest as fructose, sucrose, and glucose. Importantly, salinity did not affect the total free sugar or inulin content of the tubers. Tubers were composed of about 12% dry washed bagasse (wet weight) or 44% (dry matter basis) and bagasse retained such high quantities of free sugars after pressing that washing was required for complete sugar recovery. Chemical composition analysis of tuber bagasse suggested that it had low lignin content (11–13 wt%), and its structural sugar composition was similar to chicory root bagasse. Because of the high hemicellulose and pectin content of the bagasse, adding xylanase and pectinase to cellulase substantially improved sugar yields from enzymatic hydrolysis compared to at the same protein loading as cellulase alone. In addition to the high total sugar yield of tuber, these first findings on the sugar and lignin content and enzymatic hydrolysis of tuber bagasse can lead to low‐cost production of ethanol for transportation fuels.
Quantitative determination of risperidone, paliperidone and olanzapine in human serum by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry coupled with on‐line solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Ruan Can‐Jun , Guo Wei , Zhou Miao , Guo Gui‐Xin , Wang Chuan‐Yue , Li Wen‐Biao , de Leon Jose
Published: February 2018

A recent guideline recommends therapeutic drug monitoring for risperidone, paliperidone and olanzapine, which are frequently used second‐generation antipsychotics. We developed a simple high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry coupled with an online solid‐phase extraction method that can be used to measure risperidone, paliperidone and olanzapine using small (40 μL) samples. The analytes were extracted from serum samples automatically pre‐concentrated and purified by C8 (5 μm, 2.1 × 30 mm) solid‐phase extraction cartridges, then chromatographed on an Xbidge™ C18 column (3.5 μm, 100 × 2.1 mm) thermostatted at 30°C with a mobile phase consisting of 70% acetonitrile and 30% ammonium hydroxide 1% solution at an isocratic flow rate of 0.3 mL/min, and detected with tandem mass spectrometry. The assay was validated in the concentration range from 2.5 to 160 ng/mL. Intra‐ and inter‐day precision for all analytes was between 1.1 and 8.2%; method accuracy was between 6.6 and 7.6%. The risperidone and paliperidone assay was compared with a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet assay currently used in our hospital for risperidone and paliperidone therapeutic drug monitoring, and the results of weighted Deming regression analysis showed good agreement. For the olanzapine assay, we compared 20 samples in separate re‐assays on different days; all the relative errors were within the 20% recommended limit.
Secondary stakeholder pressures and organizational adoption of sustainable operations practices: The mediating role of primary stakeholders
Authors: Shubham  , Charan Parikshit , Murty L.S.
Published: February 2018

Organizations face increasing pressure from stakeholder groups to adopt sustainable practices and improve their environmental performance. Contemporary frameworks on corporate environmental responsibility observe that stakeholders positively influence organizational response in the form of adoption of sustainable operations practices. However, these frameworks provide little evidence on the distinction between the influences of different stakeholder groups on shaping organizations’ environmental responses. This paper proposes and empirically tests how different stakeholder groups, directly and indirectly, influence organizational adoption of sustainable operations practices. Based on a sample from an emerging economy, we show that the primary stakeholders, because of the reciprocal and direct transactional relationship with the firm, directly influence an organization's environmental policies. By contrast, secondary stakeholders try to influence organizations indirectly via primary stakeholders. The results indicate that there is a distinction between different stakeholder groups, and secondary stakeholders can exercise their influence over organizational environmental decisions via primary stakeholders.
Nonprecious‐metal Fe/N/C Catalysts Prepared from π‐Expanded Fe Salen Precursors toward an Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Tanaka Yuta , Onoda Akira , Okuoka Shin‐ichi , Kitano Tomoyuki , Matsumoto Koki , Sakata Takao , Yasuda Hidehiro , Hayashi Takashi
Published: February 2018

The front cover artwork for issue 4/2018 represents research conducted in a collaboration between Osaka University (Japan) and Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd. (Japan). The image illustrates the preparation of the Fe/N/C catalysts by pyrolysis of π‐expanded Fe(Salen) precursors for the oxygen reduction reaction. See the Full Paper itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201701629.
Spacer Length‐Independent Shuttling of the Pillar[5]arene Ring in Neutral [2]Rotaxanes
Authors: Ogoshi Tomoki , Kotera Daisuke , Nishida Shungo , Kakuta Takahiro , Yamagishi Tada‐aki , Brouwer Albert M.
Published: February 2018

For a series of neutral [2]rotaxanes consisting of a pillar[5]arene ring and axles possessing two stations separated by flexible spacers of different lengths, the free energies of activation for the ring shuttling between the stations were found to be independent of the spacer length. The constitution of the spacer affects the activation energies: replacement of CH2 groups by repulsive oxygen atoms in the axle increases the barrier. The explanation for the observed length‐independence lies in the presence of a barrier for re‐forming the stable co‐conformation, which makes the ring travel back and forth along the thread in an intermediate state.
A Water‐Soluble, Two‐Photon Probe for Imaging Endogenous Hypochlorous Acid in Live Tissue
Authors: Xing Panfei , Feng Yanxian , Niu Yiming , Li Qiu , Zhang Zhe , Dong Lei , Wang Chunming
Published: February 2018

Detection of hypochlorous acid (HClO) in the living system may help to uncover its essential biological functions. However, current imaging agents suffer from poor water solubility that limit their live‐tissue applications. Here, a water‐soluble probe (NNH) is devised through innovative hydrazone modification of 1,8‐naphthalimide at 3′ position. NNH was successfully applied to tracking endogenous HClO in both cultured macrophages and a liver injury model in mice. NNH demonstrated remarkably increased water solubility and multiple desirable features including two‐photon absorbance, anti‐bleaching capability, rapid cellular uptake, and low cytotoxicity. NNH is the first hydrazone‐based probe for real‐time imaging of HClO in live tissue.
Role of the Open‐Shell Character on the Pressure‐Induced Conductivity of an Organic Donor–Acceptor Radical Dyad
Authors: Souto Manuel , Gullo Maria Chiara , Cui HengBo , Casati Nicola , Montisci Fabio , Jeschke Harald O. , Valentí Roser , Ratera Imma , Rovira Concepció , Veciana Jaume
Published: February 2018

Single‐component conductors based on neutral organic radicals have received a lot of attention due to the possibility that the unpaired electron can serve as a charge carrier without the need of a previous doping process. Although most of these systems are based on delocalized planar radicals, we present here a nonplanar and spin localized radical based on a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) moiety, linked to a perchlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) radical by a conjugated bridge, which exhibits a semiconducting behavior upon application of high pressure. The synthesis, electronic properties, and crystal structure of this neutral radical TTF‐Ph‐PTM derivative (1) are reported and implications of its crystalline structure on its electrical properties are discussed. On the other hand, the non‐radical derivative (2), which is isostructural with the radical 1, shows an insulating behavior at all measured pressures. The different electronic structures of these two isostructural systems have a direct influence on the conducting properties, as demonstrated by band structure DFT calculations.
The Atmosphere Particle Kinetic Model for Particle Reactions in a Combustion Dust Reactor Using CFD Methods
Authors: Edler Franz , Geier Bernhard , Reiter Wolfgang , Rieger Johannes , Spijker Christoph , Raupenstrauch Harald
Published: February 2018

Das Atmosphärenpartikel‐Kinetikmodell ist ein hilfreiches Werkzeug, um die Partikelkinetik in Abhängigkeit der Verweilzeit zu bestimmen. Dieses Modell ermöglicht die Quantifizierung verschiedenster Einflussparameter in einer RecoDust‐Pilotanlage zur pyrometallurgischen Aufbereitung von zinkhaltigen Stäuben. Dabei sind die wichtigsten Parameter die Temperatur, Gaszusammensetzung und ‐geschwindigkeit, Partikelgröße sowie die Partikeleingangstemperatur. Die Größe des gewählten Betrachtungsraumes orientiert sich an der Größe des vorhandenen Reaktors. Die Fluidphase wird als Euler‐Phase betrachtet und die Partikel über einen Lagrange‐Ansatz modelliert. Als Ergebnis wird die Änderung der Zusammensetzung in Abhängigkeit von der Reaktionsgeschwindigkeit in dem Partikel für gegebene Parameter erhalten.
High control rates of proton‐ and carbon‐ion–beam treatment with intensity‐modulated active raster scanning in 101 patients with skull base chondrosarcoma at the Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center
Authors: Mattke Matthias , Vogt Kira , Bougatf Nina , Welzel Thomas , Oelmann‐Avendano Jan , Hauswald Henrik , Jensen Alexandra , Ellerbrock Malte , Jäkel Oliver , Haberer Thomas , Herfarth Klaus , Debus Jürgen , Uhl Matthias
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

The current study compares the results of irradiation with protons and irradiation with carbon ions via a raster scan technique in patients with G1 and G2 skull base chondrosarcomas.

METHODS

Between 2009 and 2014, a total of 101 patients (40 men and 61 women) with a median age of 44 years (range, 19‐77 years) were irradiated with carbon ions (79 patients) or protons (22 patients) via a raster scan technique at the Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center. The median total dose was 60 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]) at 3 Gy per fraction for carbon ions and 70 Gy (RBE) at 2 Gy per fraction for protons. The median boost planning target volume was 38 cm3 (range, 8‐133 cm3). Overall survival (OS) and local control (LC) were evaluated with the Kaplan‐Meier method.

RESULTS

The median follow‐up period was 40 months (range, 0.8‐78.1 months). At the start of the irradiation, all patients had residual macroscopic tumors. Five patients (5%) developed a local recurrence during the follow‐up. The 1‐, 2‐, and 4‐year LC rates were 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively, for protons and 98.6%, 97.2%, and 90.5%, respectively, for carbon ions. The OS rates during the same periods of time were 100%, 100%, and 100%, respectively, for protons and 100%, 98.5%, and 92.9%, respectively, for carbon ions. An age ≤ 44 years was associated with a trend for a better outcome. No toxicity worse than Common Toxicity Criteria grade 3 was observed after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference between carbon ions and protons in the therapy of skull base chondrosarcoma could be detected in these initial retrospective results. Cancer 2018;124:2036‐44. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Different qualifiers of AUS/FLUS thyroid FNA have distinct BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC, and PAX8/PPARg alterations
Authors: Bellevicine Claudio , Sgariglia Roberta , Migliatico Ilaria , Vigliar Elena , D'Anna Melania , Nacchio Maria Antonia , Serra Nicola , Malapelle Umberto , Bongiovanni Massimo , Troncone Giancarlo
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology category of atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS) includes fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) specimens that cannot straightforwardly be classified as benign or malignant. To determine whether morphological subcategorization based on atypia qualifiers and molecular testing could improve malignancy risk stratification of AUS/FLUS patients, this study assessed the correlation between these qualifiers and the molecular alterations commonly harbored by thyroid neoplasms.

METHODS

A total of 162 AUS/FLUS cases were subcategorized by atypia qualifiers (Hürthle cell changes, architectural atypia, and cytologic atypia [CyA]) and were tested for BRAF, N‐H‐KRAS, RET/PTC, and paired box 8 (PAX8)/peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARg) mutations.

RESULTS

CyA was observed more frequently in mutation‐positive AUS/FLUS (14 of 37 [37.84%]) than mutation‐negative AUS/FLUS (20 of 125 [16.00%]; P < .0084), and it specifically harbored the BRAFV600E point mutation. Malignancy was confirmed in the available follow‐up. Conversely, although RAS was the most frequent mutation identified in AUS/FLUS FNA specimens (26 of 37 cases [70.27%]; P < .0001), it was distributed across various AUS/FLUS subcategories and was not significantly associated with a specific atypia qualifier or malignant outcome according to the available follow‐up. Rearrangements of both RET/PTC (n = 1) and PAX8/PPARg (n = 3) were rarely retrieved in the FNA samples.

CONCLUSIONS

BRAF and RAS mutations are associated with different AUS/FLUS qualifiers and hence have different risks of malignancy. Consequently, a hybrid molecular and morphological subcategorization system could improve the malignancy risk stratification of thyroid FNA samples diagnosed as AUS/FLUS. Cancer Cytopathol 2018;126:317‐25. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Binocular response modulation in the lateral geniculate nucleus
Authors: Dougherty Kacie , Schmid Michael C. , Maier Alexander
Published: February 2018

The dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus of the thalamus (LGN) receives the main outputs of both eyes and relays those signals to the visual cortex. Each retina projects to separate layers of the LGN so that each LGN neuron is innervated by a single eye. In line with this anatomical separation, visual responses of almost all of LGN neurons are driven by one eye only. Nonetheless, many LGN neurons are sensitive to what is shown to the other eye as their visual responses differ when both eyes are stimulated compared to when the driving eye is stimulated in isolation. This, predominantly suppressive, binocular modulation of LGN responses might suggest that the LGN is the first location in the primary visual pathway where the outputs from the two eyes interact. Indeed, the LGN features several anatomical structures that would allow for LGN neurons responding to one eye to modulate neurons that respond to the other eye. However, it is also possible that binocular response modulation in the LGN arises indirectly as the LGN also receives input from binocular visual structures. Here we review the extant literature on the effects of binocular stimulation on LGN spiking responses, highlighting findings from cats and primates, and evaluate the neural circuits that might mediate binocular response modulation in the LGN.
Isolation of Conventional Murine Lung Dendritic Cell Subsets
Authors: Bosteels Cédric , Lambrecht Bart N. , Hammad Hamida
Published: February 2018

The lungs are continuously exposed to environmental threats, requiring an adequate and stringent immune response of a heterogeneous set of effector cells. Dendritic cells (DCs) form a dense network in the respiratory mucosa and act as the central regulators of the different components of this response, both sensing the nature of the threats and precisely coordinating the effector mechanisms best suited for overcoming it. The DCs are classically subdivided in two main groups, plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) and conventional DCs (cDCs), the latter being further subdivided into cDC1s and cDC2s based on ontogeny and their distinct non‐redundant functions. This protocol provides different enrichment methods and represents an up‐to‐date, universal framework that uses a minimal set of highly specific lineage markers to discriminate and sort pure cDC subsets from the murine lung but also across tissues and species which is an added value in intra‐ and interspecies comparative research. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Flow Cytometry: An Overview
Authors: McKinnon Katherine M.
Published: February 2018

Flow cytometry is a technology that provides rapid multi‐parametric analysis of single cells in solution. Flow cytometers utilize lasers as light sources to produce both scattered and fluorescent light signals that are read by detectors such as photodiodes or photomultiplier tubes. These light signals are converted into electronic signals that are analyzed by a computer and written to a standardized format (.fcs) data file. Cell populations can be analyzed and/or purified based on their fluorescent or light scattering characteristics. A variety of fluorescent reagents are utilized in flow cytometry. These include fluorescently conjugated antibodies, nucleic acid binding dyes, viability dyes, ion indicator dyes, and fluorescent expression proteins. Flow cytometry is a powerful tool that has applications in immunology, molecular biology, bacteriology, virology, cancer biology, and infectious disease monitoring. It has seen dramatic advances over the last 30 years, allowing unprecedented detail in studies of the immune system and other areas of cell biology. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Autoimmune Pancreatitis Mouse Model
Authors: Kamata Ken , Watanabe Tomohiro , Minaga Kosuke , Strober Warren , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: February 2018

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a chronic fibro‐inflammatory disorder of the pancreas. However, extensive clinico‐pathological analyses have revealed that AIP is, in reality, a pancreatic manifestation of a newly described systemic disease known as IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD). IgG4‐RD is characterized by enhanced local and systemic IgG4 antibody (Ab) responses as well as inflammation involving multiple organs, including the pancreas, bile ducts, and salivary glands. Although mice lack the IgG4 Ab subtype, autoimmune‐prone MRL/Mp mice treated with repeated injection with polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid (poly (I:C)) provide an experimental model of AIP. These mice exhibit massive destruction of pancreatic architecture associated with pancreatic immune cell infiltration and fibrosis. Moreover, this experimental AIP may be accompanied by involvement of multiple organs as well as elevation of serum levels of autoAbs, resembling humans with IgG4‐RD. Thus, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms accounting for the development of experimental AIP can potentially provide new insights into the immuno‐pathogenesis of human IgG4‐related AIP. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analyzing Chemotaxis and Related Behaviors of Azospirillum Brasilense
Authors: O'Neal Lindsey , Mukherjee Tanmoy , Alexandre Gladys
Published: February 2018

Bacteria of the genus A. brasilense are motile and capable of chemotaxis and aerotaxis (taxis in gradient of oxygen) using a single polar flagellum that propels the cells in aqueous environments. Responses to attractants and repellents have been described and spatial gradient assays that permit the visualization of these responses are detailed in this unit. These assays are simple and can be readily implemented with minimum set ups. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Hepatitis E Virus: Isolation, Propagation, and Quantification
Authors: Lin Shaoli , Yang Liping , Zhang Yan‐Jin
Published: February 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) predominantly causes acute liver disease in humans and is transmitted via the fecal‐oral route. HEV infection in pregnant women can result in grave consequences, with up to 30% fatality. The HEV strains infecting humans mainly belong to four genotypes. Genotypes 1 and 2 are restricted to human infection, while genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic. HEV genotype 3 (HEV‐3) can cause both acute and chronic liver diseases. Several cell lines (mainly hepatocytes) have been developed for HEV propagation and biological study. However, HEV production in these cell lines is suboptimal and inefficient. Here, we present methods for the isolation, propagation, and quantification of HEV. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus: Propagation and Quantification
Authors: Ma Zexu , Yang Liping , Zhang Yan‐Jin
Published: February 2018

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a member of the family Arteriviridae, order Nidovirale. PRRSV is an enveloped, single‐stranded, positive‐sense RNA virus with a genome around 15 kb in length. For propagation of PRRSV in vitro, the MARC‐145 cell line is the most often used in a laboratory setting. Infectious cDNA clones of many PRRSV strains have been established, from which these viruses can be recovered. PRRSV titration is generally done in MARC‐145 cells. PRRSV RNA copy numbers can be assessed by reverse transcription and real‐time PCR. Here, protocols for PRRSV propagation, virus recovery from infectious cDNA clones, and quantification are presented. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A new topology for nonisolated multiport zero voltage switching dc‐dc converter
Authors: Babaei Ebrahim , Saadatizadeh Zahra , Chavoshipour Heris Pedram
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a new multiport zero voltage switching dc‐dc converter is proposed. Multiport dc‐dc converters are widely applicable in hybrid energy generating systems to provide substantial power to sensitive loads. The proposed topology can operate in 3 operational modes of boost, buck, and buck‐boost. Moreover, it has zero voltage switching operation for all switches and has the ability to eliminate the input current ripple; also, at low voltage side, the input sources can be extended. In addition, it has the ability of interfacing 3 different voltages only by using 3 switches. In this paper, the proposed topology is analyzed theoretically for all operating modes; besides, the voltage and current equations of all components are calculated. Furthermore, the required soft switching and zero input currents ripple conditions are analyzed. Finally, to demonstrate the accurate performance of the proposed converter, the Power System Computer Aided Design(PSCAD)/Electro Magnetic Transient Design and Control(EMTDC) simulation and experimental results are extracted and presented.
Procollagen‐III peptide identifies adipose tissue‐associated inflammation in type 2 diabetes with or without nonalcoholic liver disease
Authors: Barchetta I. , Cimini F.A. , De Gioannis R. , Ciccarelli G. , Bertoccini L. , Lenzi A. , Baroni M.G. , Cavallo M.G.
Published: February 2018

Background

Procollagen‐III peptide (PIIINP) is a marker of fibrosis associated with increased cardiometabolic risk and progression of chronic liver diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and steatohepatitis; its association with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has not been elucidated yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship among circulating PIIINP levels, metabolic traits, and body fat distribution in subjects with T2DM with or without NAFLD.

Methods

Data from 62 T2DM subjects recruited in our diabetes outpatient clinics at Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, were analysed. Participants underwent metabolic and inflammatory profiling (CRP, TNFα, IL‐6, IL‐8, WISP1, and adiponectin) and magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosing NAFLD on the basis of hepatic fat fraction (≥5.5%) and quantifying visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue (AT) areas. Serum PIIINP was measured by human‐PIIINP ELISA kits.

Results

Higher PIIINP levels correlated with greater BMI and visceral AT area and were associated with systemic signatures of AT‐associated inflammation—ie, higher WISP‐1, IL‐8, and lower adiponectin levels; conversely, PIIINP did not differ significantly between T2DM patients with or without NAFLD and were not associated with hepatic fat fraction, Fatty Liver Index, FIB‐4, or transaminases.

Conclusions

Elevated circulating PIIINP levels specifically identify T2DM individuals with AT expansion and systemic proinflammatory profile suggestive for AT dysfunction; our results point toward a new role of PIIINP as a marker of fibroinflammation in dysmetabolic conditions, likely related to AT expansion.
Thinness and muscularity internalization: Associations with disordered eating and muscle dysmorphia in men
Authors: Klimek Patrycja , Murray Stuart B. , Brown Tiffany , Gonzales IV Manuel , Blashill Aaron J.
Published: February 2018

Objective

The tripartite influence model of body image identifies internalization of societal body ideals as a risk factor for developing body dissatisfaction, and subsequent disordered eating behavior. In men, internalization of two dimensions of body image ideals, thinness and muscularity, is associated with body dissatisfaction and eating concerns. However, it is unknown how thinness and muscularity internalization interact in predicting muscle dysmorphia and disordered eating in men.

Method

Data were collected online from 180 undergraduate men, with ages ranging from 18 to 33 years (19.6, SD = 2.6). Regression models were used to test the interactive effects of thinness and muscularity internalization on (a) muscle dysmorphia symptoms and (b) disordered eating. Subsequent simple slope analyses probed effects at the mean, and ±1 standard deviation of thinness internalization.

Results

Muscularity and thinness internalization were independently positively related to muscle dysmorphia symptoms and disordered eating. Additionally, a significant interaction revealed that muscularity internalization was increasingly related to muscle dysmorphia symptoms as thinness internalization decreased.

Discussion

Men who internalized the muscular ideal had higher levels of muscle dysmorphia when they did not highly internalize the thin ideal. However, greater internalization of both the muscularity and thin ideal independently may be most relevant in the development of disordered eating in men. Future research is needed to explore variability in experiences of muscle dysmorphia compared with disordered eating in males.
Prognostic performance of serial in‐hospital measurements of copeptin and multiple novel biomarkers among patients with worsening heart failure: results from the MOLITOR study
Authors: Düngen Hans‐Dirk , Tscholl Verena , Obradovic Danilo , Radenovic Sara , Matic Dragan , Musial Bright Lindy , Tahirovic Elvis , Marx Almuth , Inkrot Simone , Hashemi Djawid , Veskovic Jovan , Apostolovic Svetlana , von Haehling Stephan , Doehner Wolfram , Cvetinovic Natasa , Lainscak Mitja , Pieske Burkert , Edelmann Frank , Trippel Tobias , Loncar Goran
Published: February 2018

Aims

In heart failure, various biomarkers are established for diagnosis and risk stratification; however, little is known about the relevance of serial measurements during an episode worsening heart failure (WHF). This study sought to investigate the trajectory of natriuretic peptides and multiple novel biomarkers during hospitalization for WHF and to determine the best time point to predict outcome.

Methods and results

MOLITOR (Impact of Therapy Optimisation on the Level of Biomarkers in Patients with Acute and Decompensated Chronic Heart Failure) was an eight‐centre prospective study of 164 patients hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of WHF. C‐terminal fragment of pre‐pro‐vasopressin (copeptin), N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), mid‐regional pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide (MR‐proANP), mid‐regional pro‐adrenomedullin (MR‐proADM), and C‐terminal pro‐endothelin‐1 (CT‐proET1) were measured on admission, after 24, 48, and 72 h, and every 72 h thereafter, at discharge and follow‐up visits. Their performance to predict all‐cause mortality and rehospitalization at 90 days was compared. All biomarkers decreased during recompensation (P < 0.05) except MR‐proADM. Copeptin at admission was the best predictor of 90 day mortality or rehospitalization (χ2 = 16.63, C‐index = 0.724, P < 0.001), followed by NT‐proBNP (χ2 = 10.53, C‐index = 0.646, P = 0.001), MR‐proADM (χ2 = 9.29, C‐index = 0.686, P = 0.002), MR‐proANP (χ2 = 8.75, C‐index = 0.631, P = 0.003), and CT‐proET1 (χ2 = 6.60, C‐index = 0.64, P = 0.010). Re‐measurement of copeptin at 72 h and of NT‐proBNP at 48 h increased prognostic value (χ2 = 23.48, C‐index = 0.718, P = 0.00001; χ2 = 14.23, C‐index = 0.650, P = 0.00081, respectively).

Conclusions

This largest sample of serial measurements of multiple biomarkers in WHF found copeptin at admission with re‐measurement at 72 h to be the best predictor of 90 day mortality and rehospitalization.
Haemodynamic effects of levosimendan in advanced but stable chronic heart failure
Authors: Najjar Emil , Stålhberg Marcus , Hage Camilla , Ottenblad Erica , Manouras Aristomenis , Haugen Löfman Ida , Lund Lars H.
Published: February 2018

Aims

Levosimendan improves haemodynamics in acute decompensated heart failure (HF). However, it is increasingly used for repetitive or intermittent infusions in advanced but stable chronic HF, without clear indication, selection criteria, or effect. We tested the hypotheses that (1) levosimendan improves haemodynamics in stable chronic HF and (2) that the response is dependent on baseline clinical and haemodynamic factors.

Methods and results

Twenty‐three patients [median age 56 (49–64) years, four (17%) women] with stable New York Heart Association (NYHA) III and IV HF received a single 24 h levosimendan infusion. Non‐invasive haemodynamics (inert gas re‐breathing technique), estimated glomerular filtration rate, and N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide were assessed before and after infusion. Levosimendan had the following effects (median change): a significant increase in cardiac output (+9.8 ± 21.6%; P = 0.026) and decrease in N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (−28.1 ± 16.3%, P < 0.001), estimated total peripheral resistance (−16.9 ± 18.3%, P = 0.005), and mean arterial pressure (−5.9 ± 8.2%, P = 0.007), but no change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (+0.89 ± 14.0%, P = 0.955). There were no significant associations between baseline clinical and/or haemodynamic factors and the levosimendan effect on cardiac output.

Conclusions

Levosimendan was associated with improved haemodynamics in patients with stable chronic HF, but we could not identify any predictors of the magnitude of haemodynamic response.
Regioselective 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloadditions of Diazoalkanes with Heteroatom‐Substituted Alkynes: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Breugst Martin , Huisgen Rolf , Reissig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: February 2018

The 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions of diazomethane and diazoethane with methyl 3‐(diethylamino)propiolate were investigated experimentally and computationally by employing density functional theory (DFT). The experiments provided methyl 3‐(diethylamino)‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylates as the only isolated regioisomers. The constitution of these cycloadducts was secured by independent synthesis and decarboxylation to 3‐(diethylamino)pyrazoles. The calculations fully support the experimental findings. For the preferred pathway of the diazomethane cycloaddition with the alkyne, a kinetic preference of 9.6 kJ mol–1 was calculated in Et2O solution. The computational analysis was extended to other alkynes, for instance to heteroatom‐substituted alkynes such as ethoxyethyne and (ethylthio)ethyne. Again, the calculations nicely explain the switch in regioselectivity of the 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions of diazomethane with these two alkynes, which has been reported earlier by the group of Arens.
Dual Signal Amplification Electrochemical Biosensor for Lead Cation
Authors: Zhang Jing , Lin Yan , Peng Hong , Hong Nian , Cheng Lin , Wei Guobing , Fan Hao
Published: February 2018

Herein, a sensitive electrochemical Pb2+ sensor was developed which based on DNA‐functionalized Au nanoparticles(AuNPs) and nanocomposite modified electrode. The DNA‐functionalized AuNPs includes two types of DNA, namely a Pb2+‐mediated DNAzyme comprising a biotin labeled‐enzyme DNA and a substrate strand DNA with a typical stem‐loop structure, and a ferrocene‐labeled linear signal DNA. Without Pb2+, the hairpin loop impeded biotin binding to avidin on the electrode. However,when the goal Pb2+ exists, the substratum strand was divided into two fragments that lead to the enzyme strand was substratumed on the electrode and biotin was admited by avidin, bringing about DNA‐functionalized AuNP(AuNPs) deposition on the electrode surface.The differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used to measure electrochemical response signals connect to signal DNA.For the amplification characters of the DNA‐functionalized AuNPs and nanocomposite, the electrochemical detection signal of Pb2+ was greatly improved and revealed high specificity. Under optimum conditions, the resultant biosensor bringed out a high sensitivity and selectivity for the determination of Pb2+. The proposed method was able to detect as low as picomolar Pb2+ concentrations.
Recirculation zone characteristics research on a sudden expansion swirl burner for DPF regeneration
Authors: Fu Jun , Li Jianxing , Tang Yuan , Yan Feibin , He Yong , Li Yu
Published: February 2018

Based on the autonomously designed sudden expansion swirl burner and combined with the characteristics of diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration, fitting geometric parameters and values were determined with the orthogonal experimental design method. And the effects of main geometric parameters such as the sudden expansion ratio, length‐diameter ratio and position of air supply pipe on main evaluation indexes of the recirculation zone characteristics were studied with CFD. Results showed that with the geometry of sudden expansion ratio 2.0 and length‐diameter ratio 2.1 and air supply pipe located in the middle of the combustion chamber, the length of the recirculation zone in the center could be increased greatly; in order to increase the reattachment length, the sudden expansion ratio should be 1.5–2.0 and the length–diameter ratio should be larger and the air supply pipe should be closer to the fuel spray nozzle; and the swirl intensity was mainly depended on the length–diameter ratio, which could be effectively enhanced when the length–diameter ratio ranged from 2.1 to 2.4. It provides beneficial references for the research of complex flow field in sudden expansion swirl burner and porous medium. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018
The effects of parental carbamazepine and gemfibrozil exposure on sexual differentiation in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Hammill Kristine M. , Fraz Shamaila , Lee Abigail H. , Wilson Joanna Y.
Published: February 2018

The effects of parental exposure to pharmaceuticals on sexual differentiation in F1 offspring were examined in zebrafish (Danio rerio). Adult zebrafish were exposed to 0 or 10 μg/L of carbamazepine or gemfibrozil for 6 wk and bred in pairwise crosses to generate 7 distinct lineages. Lineages were formed with both parents from the same treatment group or with only one parent exposed, to delineate between maternal and paternal effects. The F1 offspring from each lineage were reared in clean water and sampled at 45 and 60 d post fertilization (dpf). Gonadal differentiation was assessed by histology. The morphological stages of the gonads were converted to a quantitative day-equivalent based on data from offspring of untreated parents sampled from 15 to 75 dpf, which enabled a quantitative statistical analysis on the timing of sexual differentiation. Paternal, but not maternal, exposure to carbamazepine resulted in significantly faster sexual differentiation and a male-biased sex ratio; these effects were not observed when both parents were exposed. Combined paternal and maternal exposure to gemfibrozil resulted in significantly faster sexual differentiation, and paternal, but not maternal, exposure to gemfibrozil led to male-biased sex ratios. The present study demonstrates the ability of parental exposure to pharmaceuticals to disrupt sexual differentiation in the F1 offspring and also shows that effects may be uniquely influenced by which parent was exposed. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1696–1706. © 2018 SETAC
Local functional connectivity suggests functional immaturity in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Marcos‐Vidal Luis , Martínez‐García Magdalena , Pretus Clara , Garcia‐Garcia David , Martínez Kenia , Janssen Joost , Vilarroya Oscar , Castellanos Francisco X. , Desco Manuel , Sepulcre Jorge , Carmona Susanna
Published: February 2018

Previous studies have associated Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) with a maturational lag of brain functional networks. Functional connectivity of the human brain changes from primarily local to more distant connectivity patterns during typical development. Under the maturational lag hypothesis, we expect children with ADHD to exhibit increased local connectivity and decreased distant connectivity compared with neurotypically developing (ND) children. We applied a graph‐theory method to compute local and distant connectivity levels and cross‐sectionally compared them in a sample of 120 children with ADHD and 120 age‐matched ND children (age range = 7–17 years). In addition, we measured if potential group differences in local and distant connectivity were stable across the age range considered. Finally, we assessed the clinical relevance of observed group differences by correlating the connectivity levels and ADHD symptoms severity separately for each group. Children with ADHD exhibited more local connectivity than age‐matched ND children in multiple brain regions, mainly overlapping with default mode, fronto‐parietal and ventral attentional functional networks (p < .05‐ threshold free‐cluster enhancement–family‐wise error). We detected an atypical developmental pattern of local connectivity in somatomotor regions, that is, decreases with age in ND children, and increases with age in children with ADHD. Furthermore, local connectivity within somatomotor areas correlated positively with clinical severity of ADHD symptoms, both in ADHD and ND children. Results suggest an immature functional state of multiple brain networks in children with ADHD. Whereas the ADHD diagnosis is associated with the integrity of the system comprising the fronto‐parietal, default mode and ventral attentional networks, the severity of clinical symptoms is related to atypical functional connectivity within somatomotor areas. Additionally, our findings are in line with the view of ADHD as a disorder of deviated maturational trajectories, mainly affecting somatomotor areas, rather than delays that normalize with age.