bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP loaded resin and its enantioselectivity toward phenylalanine enantiomers
Authors: Liu Xiong , Zhou Wenqi , Xu Longqi
Published: July 2017

A type of resin‐anchored CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP was synthesized and identified. The PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin was used to adsorb the phenylalanine enantiomers. The results showed that the adsorption capacity of PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin toward L‐phenylalanine was higher than that of resin toward D‐phenylalanine. PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin exhibited good enantioselectivity toward L‐phenylalanine and D‐phenylalanine. The influence of phenylalanine concentration, pH, adsorption time, and temperature on the enantioselectivity of the resin were investigated. The results showed that the enantioselectivity of the resin increased with increasing the phenylalanine concentration, pH, and adsorption time, while it decreased with an increase in temperature. The causes for these influences are discussed. The highest enantioselectivity (α = 2.81) was obtained when the condition of phenylalanine concentration was 0.05 mmol/mL, pH was 8, adsorption time was 12 h, and temperature 5°C. The desorption test for removing D/L‐phenylalanine on PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin was also investigated. The desorption ratios of D‐phenylalanine and L‐phenylalanine at pH of 1 were 95.7% and 94.3%, respectively. This result indicated that the PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin could be regenerated by shaking with an acidic solution. The reusability of the PS‐CuPF6‐(S)‐BINAP resin was also assessed and the resin exhibited considerable reusability.
Evaluation of the Cleanability of Surfaces with Particulate Contamination
Authors: Budelmann Harald , Dreßler Inka
Published: July 2017

Hygienisch einwandfreie Oberflächen sind u. a. in der Lebensmitteltechnologie und Gesundheitseinrichtungen essentiell. Bei feiner partikulärer Kontamination sind die Haftkräfte zwischen Partikeln und Oberflächen bei der Reinigung von entscheidender Bedeutung. Hier werden der Reinigungsvorgang von reinraumüblichen Materialien sowie Oberflächeneigenschaften untersucht, die die Entfernung von Partikeln im nicht‐immergierten System beeinflussen. Die Experimente wurden an zwei Materialgruppen durchgeführt, die in hygienekritischen Bereichen von Gesundheitseinrichtungen eine zentrale Rolle spielen.
An amplifier‐offset‐insensitive and high PSRR subthreshold CMOS voltage reference
Authors: Wang Lidan , Zhan Chenchang , Tang Junyao , Li Guofeng
Published: July 2017

An amplifier‐offset‐insensitive complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (MOS) voltage reference (CVR) circuit with high power supply ripple rejection (PSRR) is presented. Due to the novel structure of employing subthreshold MOS transistors, the proposed CVR circuit can suppress the direct current offset effects of the internal amplifier. Design considerations in optimizing the power and area consumptions and improving the PSRR are presented. The proposed CVR circuit is implemented in a standard 0.18 μm complementary MOS process. Measured results show that the reference can run with down‐to 0.9 V supply voltage, while the power consumption is only 70 nW. The measured PSRR is better than −37 dB over the full frequency range.
Measurement of NET formation in vitro and in vivo by flow cytometry
Authors: Masuda Sakiko , Shimizu Sakika , Matsuo Junji , Nishibata Yuka , Kusunoki Yoshihiro , Hattanda Fumihiko , Shida Haruki , Nakazawa Daigo , Tomaru Utano , Atsumi Tatsuya , Ishizu Akihiro
Published: July 2017

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are extracellular chromatin fibers adorned with antimicrobial proteins, such as myeloperoxidase (MPO), which are extruded from activated neutrophils. NETosis is the metamorphosis of neutrophils with NET formation that follows decondensation of DNA and rupture of the plasma membrane. Although NETs play important roles in innate immunity, excessive formation of NETs can be harmful to the hosts. Until now, various methods for evaluation of NETs have been reported. Although each has a virtue, the gold standard has not been established. Here we demonstrate a simple, objective, and quantitative method to detect NETs using flow cytometry. This method uses a plasma membrane‐impermeable DNA‐binding dye, SYTOX Green. SYTOX Green‐positive cells were detected in human peripheral polymorphonuclear cells exposed to a NET inducer, phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA). The number of SYTOX Green‐positive cells was increased depending on the exposure duration and concentrations of PMA. Furthermore, co‐localization of MPO and plasma membrane‐appendant DNA of SYTOX Green‐positive cells was demonstrated. Moreover, a NET inhibitor, diphenylene iodonium, could significantly reduce the number of SYTOX Green‐positive cells induced by PMA. The collective evidence suggests that SYTOX Green‐positive cells include neutrophils that formed NETs. The established method could detect neutrophils that underwent NETosis but not early apoptosis with equivalence in quantification to another well‐used image analysis, which is based on fluorescent staining. Additionally, NETs that were formed in vivo were also detectable by this method. It is conceivable that the established method will bring us better understanding of the relation between NETosis and human diseases. © 2017 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of ISAC.
Isolation and characterization of canine placenta‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells for the treatment of neurological disorders in dogs
Authors: Long Connor , Lankford Lee , Kumar Priyadarsini , Grahn Robert , Borjesson Dori L. , Farmer Diana , Wang Aijun
Published: July 2017

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating disorder that affects humans and dogs. The prognosis of SCI depends on the severity of the injury and can include varying levels of motor and sensory deficits including devastating paraplegia and quadriplegia. Placental mesenchymal stromal cells (PMSCs) have been shown to improve wound healing and possess neuroprotective and immunomodulatory capabilities, but have not yet been clinically tested for the treatment of SCI. This study established a protocol to isolate fetal PMSCs from canine placentas and characterized their paracrine secretion profile and ability to stimulate neurons in vitro to assess their potential as a treatment option for neurological disorders in dogs. Canine PMSCs (cPMSCs) were plastic adherent and capable of trilineage differentiation. cPMSCs expressed typical MSC markers and did not express hematopoietic or endothelial cell markers. Genotyping of cPMSCs revealed fetal rather than maternal origin of the cells. cPMSCs were viable and mitotically expansive in a collagen hydrogel delivery vehicle, and they secreted the immunomodulatory and neurotrophic paracrine factors interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). cPMSCs also stimulated the growth of complex neural networks when co‐cultured with SH‐SY5Y cells, a neuroblastoma cell line used to model neuron growth in vitro. cPMSCs are analogous to human PMSCs. They meet the criteria to be defined as MSCs and represent a potential regenerative therapy option for neurological disorders in dogs with their robust growth in collagen hydrogel, stimulation of neural network formation, and secretion of potent paracrine factors. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Mobile device‐centric access point monitoring scheme for handover decision triggering in heterogeneous networks
Authors: Lee Woonghee , Bae Mungyu , Kim Hyunsoon , Kim Hwangnam
Published: July 2017

Because of the low throughput and the high packet error rate in wireless communications, the network traffic often converges at access points (APs), which take a role of connecting wired and wireless communication interfaces, and APs are usually bottleneck points in wireless networks. In heterogeneous networks, various networks are around mobile devices. Furthermore, today's mobile devices have various wireless network capabilities. Thus, mobile devices should be able to understand network situations autonomously and use a wide range of network options in heterogeneous networks. However, since current mobile devices cannot know the connected AP's network condition, they continue to use the AP, which provides poor‐quality networks even though there are other available APs and networks nearby. To resolve the aforementioned problems, we propose MAPS, the low‐power AP monitoring scheme for handover decision triggering in heterogeneous networks. Using MAPS, a mobile device can trigger a handover decision properly through predicting the connected AP's network condition accurately without any cooperation from other devices. Furthermore, MAPS does not require any modification on existing network systems, and the mobile device can use MAPS with simple application installation. Through diverse simulations, actual experiments, and power consumption analysis, we validate that MAPS can detect the busy AP effectively and is suitable for mobile devices because of low power consumption.
A randomized, comparative pilot trial of family‐based interpersonal psychotherapy for reducing psychosocial symptoms, disordered‐eating, and excess weight gain in at‐risk preadolescents with loss‐of‐control‐eating
Authors: Shomaker Lauren B. , Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Matherne Camden E. , Mehari Rim D. , Olsen Cara H. , Marwitz Shannon E. , Bakalar Jennifer L. , Ranzenhofer Lisa M. , Kelly Nichole R. , Schvey Natasha A. , Burke Natasha L. , Cassidy Omni , Brady Sheila M. , Dietz Laura J. , Wilfley Denise E. , Yanovski Susan Z. , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: July 2017

Objective

Preadolescent loss‐of‐control‐eating (LOC‐eating) is a risk factor for excess weight gain and binge‐eating‐disorder. We evaluated feasibility and acceptability of a preventive family‐based interpersonal psychotherapy (FB‐IPT) program. FB‐IPT was compared to family‐based health education (FB‐HE) to evaluate changes in children's psychosocial functioning, LOC‐eating, and body mass.

Method

A randomized, controlled pilot trial was conducted with 29 children, 8 to 13 years who had overweight/obesity and LOC‐eating. Youth‐parent dyads were randomized to 12‐week FB‐IPT (n = 15) or FB‐HE (n = 14) and evaluated at post‐treatment, six‐months, and one‐year. Changes in child psychosocial functioning, LOC‐eating, BMI, and adiposity by dual‐energy‐X‐ray‐absorptiometry were assessed. Missing follow‐up data were multiply imputed.

Results

FB‐IPT feasibility and acceptability were indicated by good attendance (83%) and perceived benefits to social interactions and eating. Follow‐up assessments were completed by 73% FB‐IPT and 86% FB‐HE at post‐treatment, 60% and 64% at six‐months, and 47% and 57% at one‐year. At post‐treatment, children in FB‐IPT reported greater decreases in depression (95% CI −7.23, −2.01, Cohen's d = 1.23) and anxiety (95% CI −6.08, −0.70, Cohen's d = .79) and less odds of LOC‐eating (95% CI −3.93, −0.03, Cohen's d = .38) than FB‐HE. At six‐months, children in FB‐IPT had greater reductions in disordered‐eating attitudes (95% CI −0.72, −0.05, Cohen's d = .66) and at one‐year, tended to have greater decreases in depressive symptoms (95% CI −8.82, 0.44, Cohen's d = .69) than FB‐HE. There was no difference in BMI gain between the groups.

Discussion

Family‐based approaches that address interpersonal and emotional underpinnings of LOC‐eating in preadolescents with overweight/obesity show preliminary promise, particularly for reducing internalizing symptoms. Whether observed psychological benefits translate into sustained prevention of disordered‐eating or excess weight gain requires further study.
Habitat availability drives the distribution–abundance relationship in phytophagous true bugs in managed grasslands
Authors: Friess Nicolas , Gossner Martin M. , Weisser Wolfgang W. , Brandl Roland , Brändle Martin
Published: July 2017

The nearly universal positive relationship between the distribution and abundance of species has been explained by several hypotheses but hitherto no consensus has been reached. Here, we used monitoring data of 105 phytophagous true bug species (Heteroptera) from 150 grassland sites over six years to test how (1) range position, (2) resource use, (3) resource availability, (4) density‐dependent habitat selection, (5) metapopulation dynamics, and (6) habitat dispersal affect the distribution–abundance relationship. For the use in a confirmatory path analysis, we constructed causal pathways representing the hypothesized relationships and tested them separately and in a combined analysis. Our results show that the distribution–abundance relationship in phytophagous true bugs is driven by habitat‐availability. An increasing local density of the host‐plants increases the distribution of the species in the landscape, which in turn increases their local abundance. Thereby habitat availability facilitates dispersal success. We conclude that local abundance of herbivores facing habitat destruction could decline owing to a decrease in population dynamics between sites at the landscape scale. Finally, our results underline the potential of confirmatory path analysis for testing competing hypotheses.
Molecular constraints on resistance–tolerance trade‐offs
Authors: Mesa J. Miles , Scholes Daniel R. , Juvik John A. , Paige Ken N.
Published: July 2017

Plants have numerous mechanisms to cope with the negative effects of herbivory, including plant resistance, structural and chemical traits that reduce damage, and plant tolerance, the ability to compensate for tissues lost. It has been argued that resistance and tolerance represent alternate strategies and thus there should be a trade‐off between resistance and tolerance. However, resistance and tolerance are controlled via the same molecular pathway, the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway and the process of endoreduplication. Endoreduplication is the replication of the genome without mitosis, which leads to an increase in cellular chromosome number. Increasing chromosome number and therefore gene copy number provides a means of increasing gene expression that has been shown to enhance compensation following herbivory. By measuring glucosinolate levels and seed production following the removal of apical dominance in genotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana we show that there is a positive association between tolerance and induced chemical defense. Similarly, the direct association between tolerance and resistance is demonstrated by genetically manipulating the endoreduplication pathway. By overexpressing ILP1, a positive regulator of endoreduplication, and thus compensation, we experimentally increased glucosinolate production and tolerance in the Col‐0 genotype. We suggest that many herbaceous plants that endoreduplicate (~90%) would show a positive relationship between compensation and chemical defense, given that the molecular pathways are shared in common. We discuss these findings in light of contrasting results on measures of tolerance and resistance, given that the true relationship can be masked by ignoring genetic variation in endoreduplication and the timing of chemical measurement.
Atrophy of the parahippocampal gyrus is prominent in heart failure patients without dementia
Authors: Meguro Tomomi , Meguro Yuko , Kunieda Takeyoshi
Published: July 2017

Aims

The exacerbation of heart failure (HF) induces brain damage and cognitive impairment (CI), which frequently attenuates the effects of treatment. However, it is not clear whether HF patients without clinical dementia demonstrate increased risk of CI. We examined whether local atrophy in the parahippocampal gyrus, a potential predictor of CI, is prominent in HF patients without clinical dementia.

Methods and results

Twenty stable HF patients with a history of admission due to decompensated HF or presentation of apparent pulmonary congestion following chest X‐ray and 17 controls were enrolled in this observational, analytical, cross‐sectional, case‐control study. Patients with dementia were excluded from this study based on the results of cognitive assessment. Three‐dimensional T1 weighted magnetic resonance image analysis was performed to evaluate the severity of local brain atrophy using software based on statistical parametric mapping. Z‐score values were calculated to evaluate the severity of atrophy in the total brain and parahippocampal gyrus. The severity of total brain atrophy was similar between HF patients (8.0 ± 2.9%) and controls (6.5 ± 3.1%). However, the Z‐score was significantly higher in the HF group (1.12 ± 0.49) in comparison with the control group (0.63 ± 0.36, P = 0.002). The Z‐score value did not correlate with age, ejection fraction, left atrial dimension, left ventricular dimensions, or brain natriuretic peptides in the HF group but did correlate with the Clinical Frailty Scale.

Conclusions

Local atrophy in the parahippocampal gyrus was prominent in HF patients without clinical dementia. This finding showed that HF patients without dementia feature a potential risk for developing CI.
Trifluoromethylselenolation and Fluoroalkylselenolation of Alkenes by Electrophilic Addition
Authors: Ghiazza Clément , Glenadel Quentin , Tlili Anis , Billard Thierry
Published: July 2017

Fluoroalkylselenylated compounds are still underused due to a lack of efficient synthetic methods. Herein, we describe an efficient synthesis of α‐chloro‐β‐fluoroalkylselenolated molecules through electrophilic addition of in situ preformed fluoroalkylselenyl chlorides onto alkenes. The obtained compounds constitute valuable building blocks for further applications.
Discriminant biomarkers of acute respiratory distress syndrome associated to H1N1 influenza identified by metabolomics HPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS platform
Authors: Ferrarini Alessia , Righetti Laura , Martínez Ma Paz , Fernández‐López Mariano , Mastrangelo Annalaura , Horcajada Juan P. , Betbesé Antoni , Esteban Andrés , Ordóñez Jordi , Gea Joaquín , Cabello Jesús Ruiz , Pellati Federica , Lorente José A. , Nin Nicolás , Rupérez Francisco J.
Published: July 2017

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a serious complication of influenza A (H1N1) virus infection. Its pathogenesis is unknown and biomarkers are lacking. Untargeted metabolomics allows the analysis of the whole metabolome in a biological compartment, identifying patterns associated with specific conditions. We hypothesized that LC‐MS could help identify discriminant metabolites able to define the metabolic alterations occurring in patients with influenza A (H1N1) virus infection that developed ARDS. Serum samples from patients diagnosed with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection with (n = 25) or without (n = 32) ARDS were obtained on the day of hospital admission and analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. Metabolite identification was determined by MS/MS analysis and analysis of standards. The specificity of the patterns identified was confirmed in patients without 2009 influenza A(H1N1) virus pneumonia (15 without and 17 with ARDS). Twenty‐three candidate biomarkers were found to be significantly different between the two groups, including lysophospholipids and sphingolipids related to inflammation; bile acids, tryptophan metabolites, and thyroxine, related to the metabolism of the gut microflora. Confirmation results demonstrated the specificity of major alterations occurring in ARDS patients with influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
Production of β‐Lactoglobulin hydrolysates by monolith based immobilized trypsin reactors
Authors: Mao Yuhong , Černigoj Urh , Zalokar Viktor , Štrancar Aleš , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: July 2017

Tryptic hydrolysis of β‐Lactoglobulin (β‐Lg) is attracting more and more attention due to the reduced allergenicity and the functionality of resulting hydrolysates. To produce hydrolysates in an economically viable way, immobilized trypsin reactors (IMTRs), based on polymethacrylate monolith with pore size 2.1 μm (N1) and 6 μm (N2), were developed and used in a flow‐through system. IMTRs were characterized in terms of permeability and enzymatic activity during extensive usage. N1 showed twice the activity compared with N2, correlating well with its almost two times higher amount of immobilized trypsin. N2 showed high stability over 18 cycles, as well as over more than 30 weeks during storage. The efficiency of IMTRs on hydrolyzing β‐Lg was compared with free trypsin, and the resulting hydrolysates were analyzed by MALDI‐TOF/MS. The final hydrolysis degree by N1 reached 9.68% (86.58% cleavage sites) within 4 h, while only around 6% (53.67% cleavage sites) by 1.5 mg of free trypsin. Peptides analysis showed the different preference between immobilized trypsin and free trypsin. Under the experimental conditions used in this study, the potential cleavage site Lys135‐Phe136 was resistant against the immobilized trypsin in N1.
Tilted pillar array fabrication by the combination of proton beam writing and soft lithography for microfluidic cell capture Part 2: Image sequence analysis based evaluation and biological application
Authors: Járvás Gábor , Varga Tamás , Szigeti Márton , Hajba László , Fürjes Péter , Rajta István , Guttman András
Published: July 2017

As a continuation of our previously published work, this paper presents a detailed evaluation of a microfabricated cell capture device utilizing a doubly tilted micropillar array. The device was fabricated using a novel hybrid technology based on the combination of proton beam writing and conventional lithography techniques. Tilted pillars offer unique flow characteristics and support enhanced fluidic interaction for improved immunoaffinity based cell capture. The performance of the microdevice was evaluated by an image sequence analysis based in‐house developed single‐cell tracking system. Individual cell tracking allowed in‐depth analysis of the cell–chip surface interaction mechanism from hydrodynamic point of view. Simulation results were validated by using the hybrid device and the optimized surface functionalization procedure. Finally, the cell capture capability of this new generation microdevice was demonstrated by efficiently arresting cells from a HT29 cell‐line suspension.
Increased level of DNA damage in some organs of obese Zucker rats by γ‐H2AX analysis
Authors: Azzarà Alessia , Chiaramonte Anna , Filomeni Erika , Pinto Barbara , Mazzoni Stefano , Piaggi Simona , Angela Guzzardi Maria , Bruschi Fabrizio , Iozzo Patricia , Scarpato Roberto
Published: July 2017

In a recent study, we showed that lymphocytes of obese Italian children/adolescents displayed levels of double strand breaks (DSB), assayed as serine 139‐phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ‐H2AX), about eightfold higher than normal weight controls, and that 30% of this damage‐generated micronuclei. These findings suggested that obese children could be at increased risk of obesity‐mediated cancer later in life. We therefore aimed to assess the level of γ‐H2AX in a genetic animal model of obesity (Zucker rat) to identify a genotoxic/carcinogenic risk in some organs. The DSB marker was studied in 3‐ to 4‐week‐old rats and in 9‐ to 13‐week‐old rats. Paraffin‐embedded sections of heart, thyroid, liver, pancreas, lung, kidney, esophagus, and gut from the fa−/fa− (obese) and the fa+/fa− (lean) control animals were processed for immunohistochemistry detection of γ‐H2AX. Pancreas (0.0624 ± 0.0195), lung (0.1197 ± 0.0217), esophagus (0.1230 ± 0.0351), kidney (0.1546 ± 0.0149), and gut (0.1724 ± 0.0352) of 9‐ to 13‐week‐old obese rats showed a higher proportion of γ‐H2AX‐positive nuclei, than their lean counterparts (0.0092 ± 0.0033, 0.0416 ± 0.0185, 0.0368 ± 0.0088, 0.0686 ± 0.0318, and 0.0703 ± 0.0239, respectively). No difference was seen in the 3‐ to 4‐week‐old age group with regard to obesity, indicating that the DNA damage increased with older age of the rats. We hypothesize that the organs of the obese animals showing high levels of DSB could represent target tissues for the development of obesity‐related cancers. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 58:477–484, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pore‐scale investigation of effects of heterogeneity on CO2 geological storage using stratified sand packs
Authors: Lv Pengfei , Liu Yu , Chen Junlin , Jiang Lanlan , Wu Bohao , Liu Shuyang , Song Yongchen
Published: July 2017

The geological sequestration of CO2 is considered to have great potential. However, the heterogeneity that characterizes most geological reservoirs significantly affects the migration, trapping, and leakage of CO2. The present study involved a pore‐scale investigation of the effects of heterogeneity in pore size and wettability using stratified sand packs. A stratified glass bead (BZ06+BZ02) pack and a quartz+dolomite pack were introduced in flow experiments at gaseous CO2 (gCO2) and supercritical CO2 (scCO2) conditions. Different injection rates, namely, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.6 mL/min, were applied to the drainage while a constant rate of 0.1 mL/min was maintained for the imbibition. High resolution CT imaging and subsequent processing of the images were used to analyze the effects of heterogeneity in pore size and wettability. The results indicate that heterogeneity in pore size and wettability alters the intrinsic percolation abilities of the individual layers of the stratified structure and weaken the linear correlation between CO2 volume and slice‐averaged porosity. It was also observed that water films sometimes exist in the layers with smaller pore spaces after drainage and it can trigger snap off events. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
YAP suppresses gluconeogenic gene expression through PGC1α
Authors: Hu Yue , Shin Dong‐Ju , Pan Hui , Lin Zhiqiang , Dreyfuss Jonathan M. , Camargo Fernando D. , Miao Ji , Biddinger Sudha B.
Published: July 2017

Cell growth and proliferation are tightly coupled to metabolism, and dissecting the signaling molecules which link these processes is an important step toward understanding development, regeneration, and cancer. The transcriptional regulator Yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP) is a key regulator of liver size, development, and function. We now show that YAP can also suppress gluconeogenic gene expression. Yap deletion in primary hepatocytes potentiates the gluconeogenic gene response to glucagon and dexamethasone, whereas constitutively active YAP suppresses it. The effects of YAP are mediated by the transcriptional coactivator peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1. YAP inhibits its ability to bind to and activate transcription from the promoters of its gluconeogenic targets, and the effects of YAP are blunted upon its knockdown. In vivo, constitutively active YAP lowers plasma glucose levels and increases liver size.

Conclusion: YAP appears to reprogram cellular metabolism, diverting substrates away from the energy‐consuming process of gluconeogenesis and toward the anabolic process of growth. (Hepatology 2017;66:2029–2041)
A canine liver fibrosis model to develop a therapy for liver cirrhosis using cultured bone marrow–derived cells
Authors: Matsuda Takashi , Takami Taro , Sasaki Ryo , Nishimura Tatsuro , Aibe Yuki , Paredes Bruno Diaz , Quintanilha Luiz Fernando , Matsumoto Toshihiko , Ishikawa Tsuyoshi , Yamamoto Naoki , Tani Kenji , Terai Shuji , Taura Yasuho , Sakaida Isao
Published: July 2017

We have been developing a therapy for liver cirrhosis using cultured autologous bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Before human clinical trials can be considered, the safety and efficacy of BMSC infusion in medium to large animals must be confirmed; thus, we developed a canine liver fibrosis model. A small amount of bone marrow fluid was aspirated from the canine humerus to assess the characteristics of BMSCs. We implanted a venous catheter in the stomach and a subcutaneous infusion port in the back of the neck of each canine. Repeated injection of CCl4through the catheter was performed to induce liver cirrhosis. After 10 weeks of CCl4injection, eight canines were equally divided into two groups: no cell infusion (control group) and autologous BMSC infusion through the peripheral vein (BMSC group). A variety of assays were carried out before and 4 weeks after the infusion. The area of liver fibrosis stained with sirius red was significantly reduced in the BMSC group 4 weeks after BMSC infusion, consistent with a significantly shortened half‐life of indocyanine green and improved liver function.Conclusion: We established a useful canine liver fibrosis model and confirmed that cultured autologous BMSC infusion improved liver fibrosis without adverse effects. (Hepatology Communications2017;1:691–703)
Response surface methodology based on central composite design accompanied by multivariate curve resolution to model gradient hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography: Prediction of separation for five major opium alkaloids
Authors: Taheri Mohammadreza , Bagheri Mohsen , Moazeni‐Pourasil Roudabeh Sadat , Ghassempour Alireza
Published: July 2017

Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography on bare silica presents some benefits for analysis and purification of ionizable basic alkaloids. This mode was used to separate five major opium alkaloids: morphine, codeine, thebaine, papaverine, and noscapine. Central composite design based on response surface methodology was applied for experimental design, modeling, and optimization in a single‐step gradient method. The main effects and their interactions (initial percentage of modifier, changing range of modifier in run time, pH of buffer, and its concentration) were investigated in 30 experiments. Multivariate curve resolution‐alternating least squares, by resolving overlapped curves, helped in the accurate calculation of baseline resolution factors to be modeled and optimized more accurately. Then three crucial resolution factors besides elution time were modeled in quadratic and cubic equations and optimized. In addition to the four factors, five extra logarithmic, and nonlogarithmic factors extracted from the four factors to give nine factors overall were inspected on mechanism of retention. It was shown that a linear combination consist of four independence variables successfully describes morphinans retentivity in a single‐step gradient method.
Immunologic responses to a novel DNA vaccine targeting human papillomavirus‐11 E6E7
Authors: Ahn Julie , Peng Shiwen , Hung Chien‐Fu , Roden Richard B. S. , Wu Tzyy‐Choou , Best Simon R.
Published: July 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a benign disease caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. Although a prophylactic vaccine against RRP is available, a therapeutic vaccine is needed to treat those already infected. The objective of our study was to design and test a DNA vaccine targeting HPV11 proteins.

Study Design

Preclinical scientific investigation.

Methods

A DNA vaccine encoding the HPV11 E6 and E7 genes linked to calreticulin (CRT) was generated. Immunologic response to the HPV11 CRT/E6E7 vaccine was measured by vaccinating C57BL/6 mice via electroporation and measuring CD8 + T cell responses from harvested splenocytes. A tumor cell line containing HPV11‐E6E7 was created, and the ability of novel DNA vaccine to control tumor growth was measured in vivo.

Results

Our vaccine generated a significant and specific CD8 + T‐cell response against the HPV11‐E6aa41‐70 peptide. The CD8 + T‐cell responses did not recognize E7 epitopes, indicating E6 immunodominance. CD8 + responses were augmented in the CRT‐linked vaccine compared to a control non‐CRT vaccine. The HPV11 CRT/E6E7 vaccine was used to treat mice inoculated with a HPV11 E6E7 expressing tumor cell line after temporary CD3 depletion to facilitate tumor growth. Vaccinated mice had a significantly lower tumor growth rate (P = .029) and smaller tumor volumes compared to control mice, indicating an augmented immunologic response in vaccinated mice.

Conclusions

A DNA vaccine targeting HPV11 E6E7 generates a specific HPV11 CD‐8 + T‐cell response capable of reducing the growth of HPV11‐expressing tumors. DNA vaccines are a promising immunologic strategy for treating RRP.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 127:2713–2720, 2017
In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of Biodegradable Reactive Isocyanate‐Terminated Three‐Armed‐ and Hyperbranched Block Copolymeric Tissue Adhesives
Authors: Bochyńska Agnieszka I. , Hannink Gerjon , Rongen Jan J. , Grijpma Dirk W. , Buma Pieter
Published: July 2017

Tissue adhesives are an attractive class of biomaterials, which can serve as a treatment for meniscus tears. In this study, physicochemical and adhesive properties of novel biodegradable three‐armed‐ and hyperbranched block copolymeric adhesives are evaluated. Additionally, their degradation in vitro and in vivo, and the tissue reaction after subcutaneous injection in rats are assessed. The developed adhesives have sufficient adhesive strength to meniscus tissue after curing (66–88 kPa). Networks based on the three‐armed adhesive have tensile properties that are in the same range as human meniscus. After 26 weeks, networks based on the hyperbranched adhesive show a faster mass loss (25.4%) compared to networks prepared from the three‐armed ones (5.5%). Both adhesives induce an inflammatory reaction, however, no necrosis and only initial toxic effects on peripheral tissues are observed. The proposed materials are suitable candidates for the use as resorbable tissue adhesives for meniscus repair.
Evangelism in social networks: Algorithms and complexity
Authors: Cordasco Gennaro , Gargano Luisa , Rescigno Adele Anna , Vaccaro Ugo
Published: July 2017

We consider a population of interconnected individuals that, with respect to a piece of information, at each time instant can be subdivided into three (time‐dependent) categories: agnostics, influenced, and evangelists. A dynamical process of information diffusion evolves among the individuals of the population according to the following rules. Initially, all individuals are agnostic. Then, a set of people is chosen from the outside and convinced to start evangelizing, that is, to start spreading the information. When a number of evangelists, greater than a given threshold, communicate with a node v, the node v becomes influenced, whereas, as soon as the individual v is contacted by a sufficiently much larger number of evangelists, it is itself converted into an evangelist and consequently it starts spreading the information. The question is: How to choose a bounded cardinality initial set of evangelists so as to maximize the final number of influenced individuals? We prove that the problem is hard to solve, even in an approximate sense. On the positive side, we present exact polynomial time algorithms for trees and complete graphs. For general graphs, we derive exact parameterized algorithms. We also study the problem when the objective is to select a minimum number of evangelists capable of influencing the whole network. Our motivations to study these problems come from the areas of Viral Marketing and spread of influence in social networks. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 71(4), 346–357 2018
Secreted Tumor Antigens – Immune Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Meeusen Els , Lim Elgene , Mathivanan Suresh
Published: July 2017

With the advent of immunotherapies for cancer, there is growing interest in the identification of tumor antigens. Tumor antigens are self‐molecules altered through e.g. genetic mutations (neoantigens), protein truncation, protein misfolding, or abnormal posttranslational modifications. To induce an immune response, tumor antigens need to be secreted into the tumor environment and presented to the immune system in the draining lymph nodes, resulting in the generation of tumor‐specific effector cells and antibodies. Cytotoxic T cells are thought to be responsible for killing of tumor cells, and several recent studies have used MS, combined with exome/transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics, to identify their cognate peptide ligands on tumor MHC class I molecules. Circulating (serum) antibodies have been more widely used to identify tumor antigens in a range of human cancers, using 2D Western blots, immunoaffinity, and microarray technologies. More specific antibody probes have been generated by harvesting antibodies directly from antibody‐secreting cells through in vitro cultures of lymph node cells (antibody‐secreting cells probes) or B‐cell immortalization. Further identification and characterization of tumor antigens is likely to have important implications for cancer diagnostic and biomarker discovery, immune profiling, and the development of cancer vaccines and targeted immunotherapies.
Lessons in process safety management learned from a pesticide plant explosion in Taiwan
Authors: Liaw Horng‐Jang
Published: July 2017

A massive explosion in Taichung, Taiwan, in 2016, which was attributed to the thermal decomposition of o,o‐dimethyl phosphoramidothioate, resulted in one fatality and one injury. This accidental explosion stemmed from certain elements being absent from process safety management (PSM), including process safety information, the management of change, process hazard analysis, mechanical integrity, operating procedures, training, and the pre‐startup safety review. Problems encountered during the promotion of PSM were also identified, such as the hazards associated with highly hazardous chemicals at normal temperatures and pressure as outlined in the safety data sheet and the fact that these may be different from those under the conditions of the process. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Process Saf Prog 37:104–109, 2018
Security risk assessment and management in chemical plants: Challenges and new trends
Authors: Khakzad Nima , Martinez Imee Su , Kwon Hyuck‐Myun , Stewart Constantine , Perera Rohan , Reniers Genserik
Published: July 2017

The present study is to point out the outcomes of the Seminar on the Chemical Weapon Convention and Chemical Safety and Security Management for Member States in the Asia Region held by Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in Doha, Qatar, in February 2017. The seminar was aimed at supporting chemical safety and security (CSS) management in the chemical industry in Asian countries. Overall goal was to sensitize States Parties to the new approaches that can be adopted in relation to CSS management, with a particular focus on providing assistance to small and medium‐sized enterprises. This article reflects the observations made by keynote speakers via their interaction with participants from Asian State Parties during presentations' questions & answers sessions and following workshops. The article is an attempt to highlight the challenges in security risk assessment and management of chemical facilities and discuss some new trends for further improvements. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 37: 211–220, 2018
Molecular cytogenetics to characterize mechanisms of gene duplication in pesticide resistance
Authors: Jugulam Mithila , Gill Bikram S
Published: July 2017

Recent advances in molecular cytogenetics empower construction of physical maps to illustrate the precise position of genetic loci on the chromosomes. Such maps provide visible information about the position of DNA sequences, including the distribution of repetitive sequences on the chromosomes. This is an important step toward unraveling the genetic mechanisms implicated in chromosomal aberrations (e.g., gene duplication). In response to stress, such as pesticide selection, duplicated genes provide an immediate adaptive advantage to organisms that overcome unfavorable conditions. Although the significance of gene duplication as one of the important events driving genetic diversity has been reported, the precise mechanisms of gene duplication that contribute to pesticide resistance, especially to herbicides, are elusive. With particular reference to pesticide resistance, we discuss the prospects of application of molecular cytogenetic tools to uncover mechanism(s) of gene duplication, and illustrate hypothetical models that predict the evolutionary basis of gene duplication. The cytogenetic basis of duplicated genes, their stability, as well as the magnitude of selection pressure, can determine the dynamics of the genetic locus (loci) conferring pesticide resistance not only at the population level, but also at the individual level. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Investigation of water splitting using III‐N structures
Authors: Usikov Alexander , Ermakov Ivan , Helava Heikki , Kurin Sergey , Nikiforov Alexey , Papchenko Boris , Puzyk Mike , Polyakov Alexander , Lee In‐Hwan , Makarov Yuri
Published: July 2017

Specifics of the water photoelectrolysis in KOH‐base aqueous solution using GaN‐based structures as working electrodes are studied. The structures were grown by HVPE and MOCVD techniques on sapphire substrates. In highly Si‐doped HVPE‐grown GaN layers (ND−NA ∼ 3 × 1018 cm−3) a barrier at the E1 offset potential dominates the current–potential (I–E) characteristics. The same dominant E1 offset potential was observed in MOCVD‐grown GaN/InGaN nanopillar structures after the treatment. The Debye screening effect in high‐concentration of KOH electrolyte (20–40 wt.%) that reduces the potential barrier was observed clearly in the defectless nanopillar structures. The corrosion process is initiated in the top p‐type layers via channels associated with threading defects and can penetrate deeply into the structure. It further proceeds in a lateral direction in n‐type layers forming voids and cavities in the structure. The H2 production rate of 0.3–0.6 ml cm−2 h−1 was measured for n‐GaN‐based structure in KOH electrolyte under the Xe‐lamp illumination (concentration factor ×15).
Rechargeable Aluminum‐Ion Batteries Based on an Open‐Tunnel Framework
Authors: Kaveevivitchai Watchareeya , Huq Ashfia , Wang Shaofei , Park Min Je , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: July 2017

Rechargeable batteries based on an abundant metal such as aluminum with a three‐electron transfer per atom are promising for large‐scale electrochemical energy storage. Aluminum can be handled in air, thus offering superior safety, easy fabrication, and low cost. However, the development of Al‐ion batteries has been challenging due to the difficulties in identifying suitable cathode materials. This study presents the use of a highly open framework Mo2.5 + 

y
VO9 + 

z
as a cathode for Al‐ion batteries. The open‐tunnel oxide allows a facile diffusion of the guest species and provides sufficient redox centers to help redistribute the charge within the local host lattice during the multivalent‐ion insertion, thus leading to good rate capability with a specific capacity among the highest reported in the literature for Al‐based batteries. This study also presents the use of Mo2.5 + 

y
VO9 + 

z
as a model host to develop a novel ultrafast technique for chemical insertion of Al ions into host structures. The microwave‐assisted method employing diethylene glycol and aluminum diacetate (Al(OH)(C2H3O2)2) can be performed in air in as little as 30 min, which is far superior to the traditional chemical insertion techniques involving moisture‐sensitive organometallic reagents. The Al‐inserted Al
x
Mo2.5 + 

y
VO9 + 

z
obtained by the microwave‐assisted chemical insertion can be used in Al‐based rechargeable batteries.
Synthesis of a Sulfate Enclathrated Zeolite with Intermediate Framework Structure between Sodalite and Cancrinite
Authors: Buhl Josef‐Christian
Published: July 2017

A sulfate enclathrated microporous zeolite of composition Na7.4[SiAlO4]6(SO4)0.7(H2O)4.8 with intermediate framework structure (INT) between the well known zeolites sodalite (SOD) and cancrinite (CAN) can be prepared by the autothermal synthesis, a method first demonstrated in reference. The product (abbreviated as “SO4‐INT”) was characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX‐analysis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and thermogravimetry (TG). SO4‐INT was found to crystallize as spheres with 1–6 μm in diameter with a rough surface. Sometimes the spheres are agglutinated to each other by a few amount of amorphous material within the sample. The thermal behavior of the new phase was further studied. At elevated temperature (1000 °C) a transformation of SO4‐INT into a large amount of nosean was observed beside some parts of nepheline, formed by crystallization of the amorphous byproduct. The nosean phase was found to be stable up to 1250 °C, before the onset of a total destruction by melting during further heating. Finally a re‐crystallization of the melt during cooling yielded carnegieite as the final product (low form at room temperature). This unusual thermal behavior of SO4‐INT is discussed in terms of structural interactions of the sulfate guests inside the aluminosilicate host‐framework and in comparison with literature data of the intermediate phases CO3‐INT, as well as NO3‐INT.
Solvothermal Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Luminescent Properties of Three Heterometallic Lanthanide‐Transition‐Metal Frameworks Constructed from Three Types of CuBr Motifs
Authors: Chen Lu , Liu Ying , Lou Ding , Wei Chengde , Xu Yan
Published: July 2017

Three three‐dimensional (3D) heterometallic lanthanide‐transition‐metal (hetero‐Ln‐TM) compounds with the formula [Ln6(Cu4Br3)(Cu2Br2)2(Cu2Br)(IN)20(H2O)12]·2H2O [Ln = Gd (1), Ln = Sm (2), Ln = Eu (3)] based on the linkages of one‐dimensional Ln organic chain and CumBrn units were synthesized by mixing Ln2O3 with isonicotinic acid (HIN = pyridine‐4‐carboxylic acid) under hydrothermal condition. During the synthesis, two ligands were used: the isonicotinate (IN–) stabilizes the cluster and links the one‐dimensional Ln organic chains and CumBrn motif, whereas Br– anions play a very important role in the formation of the distinct CumBrn units. It is interesting that there are three different Cu‐Br motifs: a closed four‐membered ring [Cu2Br2] subunit, a linear [Cu2Br] subunit, an S‐sharp [Cu4Br3] subunit. Strong fluorescence of compounds 2 and 3 suggests an efficient energy transfer from the ligand to Eu3+ ions. The luminescent investigation indicates that 2 and 3 are excellent candidates for fluorescent materials.
Survival Benefits of Surgical Resection in Patients with Recurrent Biliary Tract Carcinoma
Authors: Motoyama Hiroaki , Kobayashi Akira , Yokoyama Takahide , Shimizu Akira , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Notake Tsuyoshi , Fukushima Kentaro , Masuo Hitoshi , Yoshizawa Takahiro , Miyagawa Shin‐ichi
Published: July 2017

Background

Whether surgical resection for recurrent biliary tract carcinoma (BTC) prolongs survival and the patients who are most likely to benefit from such treatment remain unclear.

Methods

Among 251 patients with recurrences after the initial resection of BTC, a total of 21 patients (8.4%) underwent surgical resection for the recurrence, with a zero mortality rate. The clinicopathological features of these patients were compared with those of patients who did not undergo surgery.

Results

The median survival time (MST) after the first recurrence and the 5‐year post‐recurrent survival (PRS) rate were 19.8 months and 32.8%, respectively, for patients who underwent re‐resection. Fourteen patients (66.7%) experienced second recurrences; however, none of these patients underwent further surgical resection. Surgical resection for recurrence was identified as an independent prognostic factor for survival after recurrence (hazard ratio of 0.33, 95% CI of 0.17–0.58, p < 0.001). Patients with less than three liver metastases had a significantly better PRS after surgical resection than after chemotherapy (p = 0.015). Among the patients with an isolated solitary liver metastasis, patients who underwent resection had a significantly longer MST after the first recurrence than patients receiving chemotherapy (22.8 vs. 10.9 months, p = 0.025), whereas the PRS was similar between the two groups among patients with two liver lesions.

Conclusions

Surgical resection for recurrent BTC may prolong survival in highly selected patients. A hepatectomy might offer a survival benefit for patients with a solitary liver metastasis.