bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of wheat seed vitality by dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment
Authors: Guo Qiao , Meng Yiran , Qu Guangzhou , Wang Tiecheng , Yang Fengning , Liang Dongli , Hu Shibin
Published: October 2017

Influences of discharge voltage on wheat seed vitality were investigated in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma system at atmospheric pressure and temperature. Six different treatments were designed, and their discharge voltages were 0.0, 9.0, 11.0, 13.0, 15.0, and 17.0 kV, respectively. Fifty seeds were exposed to the DBD plasma atmosphere with an air flow rate of 1.5 L min−1 for 4 min in each treatment, and then the DBD plasma‐treated seeds were prepared for germination in several Petri dishes. Each treatment was repeated three times. Germination indexes, growth indexes, surface topography, water uptake, permeability, and α‐amylase activity were measured. DBD plasma treatment at appropriate energy levels had positive effects on wheat seed germination and seedling growth. The germination potential, germination index, and vigor index significantly increased by 31.4%, 13.9%, and 54.6% after DBD treatment at 11.0 kV, respectively, in comparison to the control. Shoot length, root length, dry weight, and fresh weight also significantly increased after the DBD plasma treatment. The seed coat was softened and cracks were observed, systematization of the protein was strengthened, and amount of free starch grain increased after the DBD plasma treatment. Water uptake, relative electroconductivity, soluble protein, and α‐amylase activity of the wheat seed were also significantly improved after the DBD plasma treatment. Roles of active species and ultraviolet radiation generated in the DBD plasma process in wheat seed germination and seedling growth are proposed. Bioelectromagnetics. 39:120–131, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Platinum Single Atoms on Carbon Nanotubes as Efficient Catalyst for Hydroalkoxylation
Authors: Woo Hyunje , Lee Eun‐Kyung , Yun Su‐Won , Park Shin‐Ae , Park Kang Hyun , Kim Yong‐Tae
Published: October 2017

We report a facile synthesis of Pt single atoms on thiolated carbon nanotubes. To obtain Pt single atoms, it is crucial to treat thiol groups on carbon nanotubes. Pt single atoms on carbon nanotubes were used efficient catalyst for hydroalkoxylation of 3‐buten‐1‐ol or 4‐penten‐1‐ol. Hydroalkoxylation represents an atom‐economic route to construct four or five‐ membered cyclic ethers through intramolecular addition of hydroxyl group. This catalyst exhibited higher catalytic activity than Pt complex and Pt nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes.
Determination of thiocyanate as a biomarker of tobacco smoke constituents in selected biological materials of human origin
Authors: Narkowicz Sylwia , Jaszczak Ewa , Polkowska Żaneta , Kiełbratowska Bogumiła , Kotłowska Alicja , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: October 2017

In order to protect human health, it is necessary to biomonitor toxic substances originating from tobacco smoke in biological materials sampled from persons with different exposures to tobacco smoke constituents. Thiocyanate anion is a biomarker of exposure to tobacco smoke components which is characterized by a relatively long half‐life in the human body, i.e. 6 days. In this work, we present the results of thiocyanate determinations performed on samples of placenta, meconium, saliva, breast milk, sweat and blood. The placenta samples were subjected to accelerated solvent extraction with water. The thiocyanate concentrations were determined using ion chromatography. The analyzed biological materials were compared with regard to their applicability for biomonitoring toxic substances originating from tobacco smoke. The highest mean concentrations of thiocyanate were observed in the samples of biological materials collected from active smokers.
Toxicokinetics of strychnine and brucine after the oral administration of Biqi capsule to rats by RRLC–MS/MS
Authors: Zheng Hao , Wang Zhe , Liu Wenwei , Jin Hongtao , Zhang Jinlan
Published: October 2017

Biqi capsule is a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine formula that has been widely applied for the clinical treatment of such diseases as rheumatoid arthritis, scapulohumeral periarthritis and cervical spondylopathy. However, there is concern regarding the toxicity of Biqi capsule owing to its active ingredients, strychnine and brucine. To investigate the toxicokinetics of strychnine and brucine after oral administration of Biqi capsule to rats, a sensitive and simple rapid‐resolution liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to determine the levels of strychnine and brucine in rat plasma. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Capcell Pak C18 MG II (3.0 μm, 2.0 × 35 mm) column by gradient elution with acetonitrile and 0.2% formic acid as the mobile phase. The method was validated over the range of 0.25–250 ng/mL for strychnine and 0.025–25 ng/mL for brucine. The intra‐ and inter‐day accuracies of strychnine and brucine in rat plasma were 100.3–106.6 and 90.75–106.1% respectively, and the precisions were within 14.2%. The established method was successfully applied to the toxicokinetic study of strychnine and brucine after single and multiple oral administration of Biqi capsule to male and female rats at 0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 g/kg doses. The results showed different toxicokinetic characteristics in the different groups.
miR‐214 activates TP53 but suppresses the expression of RELA, CTNNB1, and STAT3 in human cervical and colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Chandrasekaran Karthik Subramanian , Sathyanarayanan Anusha , Karunagaran Devarajan
Published: October 2017

High Mobility Group AT‐hook 1 (HMGA1) was identified as a target of miR‐214 in human cervical and colorectal cancers (CaCx and CRC) in a previous study. While the expression of miR‐214 remains suppressed, HMGA1 behaves as a potent oncogene and plays crucial roles in several aberrant signalling pathways by interacting with intermediates like RELA, CTNNB1, STAT3, and TP53 in CaCx and CRC. Hypothetically, miR‐214 should be able to regulate the stabilization of some of these intermediates through the regulation of HMGA1. This was assessed by ectopically expressing miR‐214 or complementarily, by inhibiting the expression of HMGA1. In promoter luciferase assays, miR‐214 inhibited NF‐κB and Wnt activities but elevated TP53 activity in cancer cells. Further, miR‐214 suppressed the expression of HMGA1, RELA, CTNNB1, and STAT3 while elevating TP53 levels, similar to when small interfering RNA (siRNA) against HMGA1 was used, as revealed by Western blotting. It is suggested that poor expression of miR‐214, commonly reported in CaCx and CRC tissues, may not only result in the sustained expression of HMGA1 but also that of RELA, CTNNB1, and STAT3, and a congruent suppression of TP53 during cancer initiation/progression. These several states are, however, reversed when miR‐214 is reintroduced and could explain the tumour suppressive functions observed in earlier studies. Further studies are, however, required to reveal how microRNA‐mediated regulation of HMGA1 expression may affect individual signalling pathways in CaCx and CRC. Current results reveal that miR‐214 is not only able to regulate the expression of its direct target, HMGA1, but also that of a few signalling intermediates like TP53, RELA, CTNNB1, and STAT3, with which HMGA1 interacts. These intermediates play crucial roles in signalling pathways commonly deregulated in human CaCx and CRC. Hence, it is proposed that miR‐214 might act as a tumour suppressor by regulating several aberrant signalling pathways through HMGA1. This knowledge has the potential to help design novel therapeutic strategies in CaCx and CRC.
ATF1 and RAS in exosomes are potential clinical diagnostic markers for cervical cancer
Authors: Shi Yanhua , Wang Wei , Yang Baozhi , Tian Hongge
Published: October 2017

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. It is highly lethal yet can be treated when found in early stage. Thus, early detection is of significant important for early diagnosis of cervical cancer. Exosomes have been used as biomarkers in clinical diagnosis. It is unknown that whether blood exosomes associated with cervical cancer can be detected and if these exosomes can accurately represent the developmental stage of cervical cancer. Mouse models were made out of a relapsed cervical cancer patient's tumour sample for original and recurrent cervical cancer, and gene analysis in both tumours and exosomes in these mouse models were performed. We found that activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1) and RAS genes were significantly up‐regulated in tumours of both primary and recurrent cervical cancer mouse model, and they can also be detected in the blood exosomes of the mouse model. Our results indicated that ATF1 and RAS could be potential candidate biomarkers for cervical cancer in early diagnosis. ATF1 and RAS genes were found significantly elevated in tumours of primary and recurrent cervical cancer mouse model, and they were also detected in the blood exosomes. Therefore, ATF1 and RAS could be used as a diagnostic marker for cervical cancer in the future.
Regulating DNA Self‐assembly by DNA–Surface Interactions
Authors: Liu Longfei , Li Yulin , Wang Yong , Zheng Jianwei , Mao Chengde
Published: October 2017

DNA self‐assembly provides a powerful approach for preparation of nanostructures. It is often studied in bulk solution and involves only DNA–DNA interactions. When confined to surfaces, DNA–surface interactions become an additional, important factor to DNA self‐assembly. However, the way in which DNA–surface interactions influence DNA self‐assembly is not well studied. In this study, we showed that weak DNA–DNA interactions could be stabilized by DNA–surface interactions to allow large DNA nanostructures to form. In addition, the assembly can be conducted isothermally at room temperature in as little as 5 seconds.
Panel of New Thermostable CYP116B Self‐Sufficient Cytochrome P450 Monooxygenases that Catalyze C−H Activation with a Diverse Substrate Scope
Authors: Tavanti Michele , Porter Joanne L. , Sabatini Selina , Turner Nicholas J. , Flitsch Sabine L.
Published: October 2017

The ability of cytochrome P450 monooxygenases to catalyse a wide variety of synthetically challenging C−H activation reactions makes them highly desirable biocatalysts both for the synthesis of chiral intermediates and for late‐stage functionalisations. However, P450s are plagued by issues associated with poor expression, solubility and stability. Catalytically self‐sufficient P450s, in which the haem and reductase domains are fused in a single protein, obviate the need for additional redox partners and are attractive as biocatalysts. Here we present a panel of natural self‐sufficient P450s from thermophilic organisms (CYP116B65 from A. thermoflava, CYP116B64 from A. xiamenense, CYP116B63 from J. thermophila, CYP116B29 from T. bispora and CYP116B46 from T. thermophilus). These P450s display enhanced expression and stability over their mesophilic homologues. Activity profiling of these enzymes revealed that each P450 displayed a different fingerprint in terms of substrate range and reactivity that cover reactions as diverse as hydroxylation, demethylation, epoxidation and sulfoxidation. The productivity of the bio‐transformation of diclofenac to produce the 5‐hydroxy metabolite increased 42‐fold using the thermostable P450‐AX (>0.5 g L−1 h−1) compared to the P450‐RhF system reported previously. In conclusion, we have generated a toolkit of thermostable self‐sufficient P450 biocatalysts with a broad substrate range and reactivity.
Graphite Sheets as High‐Performance Low‐Cost Anodes for Microbial Fuel Cells Using Real Food Wastewater
Authors: Mohamed Hend Omar , Obaid Mohamed , Sayed Enas Taha , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Park Mira , Liu Yanan , Kim Hak-Yong , Barakat Nasser A. M.
Published: October 2017

Graphite paper is introduced as efficient and low‐cost anode in an air‐cathode microbial fuel cell (MFC) for simultaneous wastewater treatment and power generation using real food wastewater. Graphite paper as the cheapest investigated material provided the best electrochemical results in an MFC with an excellent open cell voltage. The significantly increased power generation could be attributed to the large surface area of the anode, leading to enhanced bacterial attachment on the graphite anode surface. Regarding wastewater treatment, the graphite anode exhibited the highest removal of organic pollutants and the highest coulombic efficiency. It shows an excellent efficiency as a bio‐anode in the air‐MFC for producing electricity and treating industrial wastewaters without requiring external mediators.
Accurate model based on artificial intelligence for prediction of carbon dioxide solubility in aqueous tetra‐n‐butylammonium bromide solutions
Authors: Hoseinpour Seyed‐Ahmad , Barati‐Harooni Ali , Nadali Payam , Mohebbi Armin , Najafi‐Marghmaleki Adel , Tatar Afshin , Bahadori Alireza
Published: October 2017

This study highlights the application of radial basis function (RBF) neural networks, adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS), and gene expression programming (GEP) in the estimation of solubility of CO2 in aqueous solutions of tetra‐n‐butylammonium bromide (TBAB). The experimental data were gathered from a published work in literature. The proposed RBF network was coupled with genetic algorithm (GA) to access a better prediction performance of model. The structure of ANFIS model was trained by using hybrid method. The input parameters of the model were temperature, pressure, mass fraction of TBAB in feed aqueous solution (wTBAB), and mole fraction of TBAB in aqueous phase (xTBAB). The solubility of CO2 (xCO2) was the output parameter. Statistical and graphical analyses of the results showed that the proposed GA‐RBF, Hybrid‐ANFIS, and GEP models are robust and precise in the estimation of literature solubility data.
Benzyl Mono‐P‐Fluorophosphonate and Benzyl Penta‐P‐Fluorophosphate Anions Are Physiologically Stable Phosphotyrosine Mimetics and Inhibitors of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases
Authors: Wagner Stefan , Accorsi Matteo , Rademann Jörg
Published: October 2017

α,α‐Difluoro‐benzyl phosphonates are currently the most popular class of phosphotyrosine mimetics. Structurally derived from the natural substrate phosphotyrosine, they constitute classical bioisosteres and have enabled the development of potent inhibitors of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTP) and phosphotyrosine recognition sites such as SH2 domains. Being dianions bearing two negative charges, phosphonates, however, do not permeate membranes and thus are often inactive in cells and have not been a successful starting point toward therapeutics, yet. In this work, benzyl phosphonates were modified by replacing phosphorus‐bound oxygen atoms with phosphorus‐bound fluorine atoms. Surprisingly, mono‐P‐fluorophosphonates were fully stable under physiological conditions, thus enabling the investigation of their mode of action toward PTP. Three alternative scenarios were tested and mono‐P‐fluorophosphonates were identified as stable reversible PTP1B inhibitors, despite of the loss of one negative charge and the replacement of one oxygen atom as an H‐bond donor by fluorine. In extending this replacement strategy, α,α‐difluorobenzyl penta‐P‐fluorophosphates were synthesized and found to be novel phosphotyrosine mimetics with improved affinity to the phosphotyrosine binding site of PTP1B.
A New Member of the Inverted Cucurbit[n]uril Family
Authors: Wang Xin‐Xin , Chen Kai , Shen Fang‐Fang , Hua Zi‐Yi , Qiu Sheng‐Chao , Zhang Yun‐Qian , Cong Hang , Liu Qing‐Yun , Tao Zhu , Xiao Xin
Published: October 2017

A new inverted cucurbituril, namely inverted hexamethylcucurbit[3,3]uril (iMe6Q[3,3]), has been isolated and characterized. It incorporates a single inverted un‐substituted glycoluril unit oriented towards the interior of the cavity, shows good solubility in water and organic solvents (DMSO), and exhibits different selectivity for guests to those of iQ[6] and other known Q[6]s.
MoS2@HKUST‐1 Flower‐Like Nanohybrids for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Wang Chengli , Su Yingchun , Zhao Xiaole , Tong Shanshan , Han Xiaojun
Published: October 2017

A novel MoS2‐based flower‐like nanohybrid for hydrogen evolution was fabricated through coating the Cu‐containing metal‐organic framework (HKUST‐1) onto MoS2 nanosheets. It is the first time that MoS2@HKUST‐1 nanohybrids have been reported for the enhanced electrochemical performance of HER. The morphologies and components of the MoS2@HKUST‐1 flower‐like nanohybrids were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Compared with pure MoS2, the MoS2@HKUST‐1 hybrids exhibit enhanced performance on hydrogen evolution reaction with an onset potential of −99 mV, a smaller Tafel slope of 69 mV dec−1, and a Faradaic efficiency of nearly 100 %. The MoS2@HKUST‐1 flower‐like nanohybrids exhibit excellent stability in acidic media. This design opens new possibilities to effectively synthesize non‐noble metal catalysts with high performance for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Naphthyl Thio‐ and Carba‐xylopyranosides for Exploration of the Active Site of β‐1,4‐Galactosyltransferase 7 (β4GalT7)
Authors: Thorsheim Karin , Willén Daniel , Tykesson Emil , Ståhle Jonas , Praly Jean‐Pierre , Vidal Sébastien , Johnson Magnus T. , Widmalm Göran , Manner Sophie , Ellervik Ulf
Published: October 2017

Xyloside analogues with substitution of the endocyclic oxygen atom by sulfur or carbon were investigated as substrates for β‐1,4‐galactosyltransferase 7 (β4GalT7), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycan chains. The analogues with an endocyclic sulfur atom proved to be excellent substrates for β4GalT7, and were galactosylated approximately fifteen times more efficiently than the corresponding xyloside. The 5a‐carba‐β‐xylopyranoside in the d‐configuration proved to be a good substrate for β4GalT7, whereas the enantiomer in the l‐configuration showed no activity. Further investigations by X‐ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and molecular modeling provided a rationale for the pronounced activity of the sulfur analogues. Favorable π–π interactions between the 2‐naphthyl moiety and a tyrosine side chain of the enzyme were observed for the thio analogues, which open up for the design of efficient GAG primers and inhibitors.
New Insights into the Operating Voltage of Aqueous Supercapacitors
Authors: Yu Minghao , Lu Yongzhuang , Zheng Haibing , Lu Xihong
Published: October 2017

The main limitation of aqueous supercapacitors (SCs) lies in their narrow operating voltages, especially when compared with organic SCs. Fundamental understanding of factors relevant to the operating voltage helps providing guidance for the assembly of high‐voltage aqueous SCs. In this regard, this concept analyzes the deciding factors for the operating voltage of aqueous SCs. Strategies applied to expand the operating voltage are summarized and discussed from the aspects of electrolyte, electrode, and asymmetric structure. Dynamic factors associated with water electrolysis and maximally using the available potential ranges of electrodes are particularly emphasized. Finally, other promising approaches that have not been explored and their challenges are also elaborated, hoping to provide more insights for the design of high‐voltage aqueous SCs.
Structure Determination, Conformational Flexibility, Internal Dynamics, and Chiral Analysis of Pulegone and Its Complex with Water
Authors: Krin Anna , Pérez Cristóbal , Pinacho Pablo , Quesada‐Moreno María Mar , López‐González Juan Jesús , Avilés‐Moreno Juan Ramón , Blanco Susana , López Juan Carlos , Schnell Melanie
Published: October 2017

In the current work we present a detailed analysis of the chiral molecule pulegone, which is a constituent of essential oils, using broadband rotational spectroscopy. Two conformers are observed under the cold conditions of a molecular jet. We report an accurate experimentally determined structure for the lowest energy conformer. For both conformers, a characteristic splitting pattern is observed in the spectrum, resulting from the internal rotation of the two non‐equivalent methyl groups situated in the isopropylidene side chain. The determined energy barriers are 1.961911(46) kJ mol−1and 6.3617(12) kJ mol−1for one conformer, and 1.96094(74) kJ mol−1and 6.705(44) kJ mol−1for the other one. Moreover, a cluster of the lowest energy conformer with one water molecule is reported. The water molecule locks one of the methyl groups by means of a hydrogen bond and some secondary interactions, so that we only observe internal rotation splittings from the other methyl group with an internal rotation barrier of 2.01013(38) kJ mol−1. Additionally, the chirality‐sensitive microwave three‐wave mixing technique is applied for the differentiation between the enantiomers, which can become of further use for the analysis of essential oils.
Interaction between a hollow‐cone spray and the co‐axial swirling stratified flow in a novel spray pyrolysis furnace
Authors: Du Wei , Sun Ze , Lu Guimin , Yu Jianguo
Published: October 2017

Pressure‐swirl nozzles producing hollow‐cone sprays are widely used in many engineering applications, but the induced high‐speed stream along the centreline of the spray cone was ignored in designing spray chambers. The high‐speed stream influences the flow field especially in minimized spray chambers, but it is difficult to characterize experimentally. Hence, computational fluid dynamics was applied to investigate the multi‐phase flow interactions inside a novel spray pyrolysis furnace for liquid ore exploitation. The mass flow rate distribution of the co‐axial swirling stratified flow inside the furnace, the gas‐solid separation efficiency, particle size distribution, and residence time were investigated under different positions and directions of the hollow‐cone spray. The results proved that different spray operations would cause variation in the air mass flow rate distribution and gas‐solid separation efficiency, which should be paid attention to in the design of process intensification. The distribution of particles sized from 30 to 40 μm were most sensitive under different flow rates. The recommended operating conditions of the spray pyrolysis process were confirmed as the inlet velocity of 5 m/s and downward spray from the top of the furnace chamber.
The Structure of Diphenyl Ether–Methanol in the Electronically Excited and Ionic Ground States: A Combined IR/UV Spectroscopic and Theoretical Study
Authors: Bernhard Dominic , Holzer Christof , Dietrich Fabian , Stamm Anke , Klopper Wim , Gerhards Markus
Published: October 2017

Diphenyl ether offers competing docking sites for methanol: the ether oxygen acts as a common hydrogen‐bond acceptor and the π system of each phenyl ring allows for OH–π interactions driven by electrostatic, induction, and dispersion forces. Based on investigations in the electronic ground state (S0), we present a detailed study of the electronically excited state (S1) and the ionic ground state (D0), in which an impact on the structural preference is expected compared with the S0 state. Dispersion forces in the electronically excited state were analyzed by comparing the computed binding energies at the coupled‐cluster‐singles (CCS) and approximate coupled‐cluster‐singles‐doubles levels of theory (CC2 approximation). By applying UV/IR/UV spectroscopy, we found a more strongly bound OH–π structure in the S1 state compared with the S0 state, in agreement with spin‐component‐scaled CC2 calculations. A structural rearrangement into a non‐hydrogen‐bonded structure takes places upon ionization in the D0 state, which was revealed by using IR photodissociation spectroscopy and confirmed by theory.
Ultrafast Dynamics of a Fluorescent Tetrazolium Compound in Solution
Authors: Bolze Tom , Wree Jan‐Lucas , Kanal Florian , Schleier Domenik , Nuernberger Patrick
Published: October 2017

Tetrazolium salts are exploited in various fields of research by virtue of their low reduction potentials. Increasingly, associated applications also attend to the photochemical and luminescence properties of these systems. Here, we investigate the photoinduced dynamics of phenyl‐benzo[c]tetrazolo‐cinnolinium chloride (PTC), one of the very few known fluorescent tetrazolium compounds, by using time‐correlated single‐photon counting, femtosecond fluorescence upconversion, and ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy. PTC is generated photochemically by ultraviolet illumination of 2,3,5‐triphenyl‐tetrazolium chloride (TTC) in various alcohols. Time‐resolved fluorescence measurements on PTC with different excitation wavelengths disclose biphasic solvation and vibrational relaxation dynamics. Depending on the solvent, the emission behavior of PTC is characterized by quantum yields on the order of several tens of percent and corresponding excited‐state lifetimes of several hundreds of picoseconds. The radiative rate is basically constant for the studied alcohols, whereas the rate of the competing non‐radiative process is sensitive to the solvent polarity. Hence, we discuss the possible involvement of intermediate radicals and further presumptive reaction pathways pursued after photoexcitation of PTC.
Continuity between DSM‐5 Section II and Section III personality traits for obsessive–compulsive personality disorder
Authors: Liggett Jacqueline , Sellbom Martin , Bach Bo
Published: October 2017

Objective

Obsessive–compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is formally operationalized in Section II of the DSM‐5 by a heterogeneous collection of 8 categorical criteria. Section III contains an alternative model operationalizing personality disorders via dimensional personality traits and associated impairment. The extent to which the personality traits used to define OCPD in Section III correspond with the Section II operationalization of the disorder is contested. The current study aims to contribute to the evidence base necessary to solidify the optimal trait profile for this disorder via a more fine‐tuned examination of OCPD.

Method

The research questions were examined using a clinical sample of 142 Danish adults who completed the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV Axis II Disorders and the Personality Inventory for DSM‐5 to index both the Sections II and III (personality traits) operationalizations of OCPD, respectively.

Results

Bivariate correlations supported Rigid Perfectionism and Perseveration as traits relevant to OCPD; however, hierarchical regression analyses indicated that of the 4 traits used in the Section III operationalization of OCPD, only Rigid Perfectionism uniquely predicted OCPD (p < .05). In addition to Rigid Perfectionism, the conceptually relevant traits of Submissiveness, Suspiciousness, and (low) Impulsivity were also found to uniquely predict OCPD and its specific symptoms in a regression model.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the traits proposed in Section III are only partially aligned with the traditional, Section II conceptualization of OCPD, and may be augmented by incorporating Submissiveness, Suspiciousness, and (low) Impulsivity. In light of the current findings and existing literature, a modified constellation of traits to operationalize OCPD is likely justified.
Different expression about induced sputum cell sorting in the two main types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Song Huifang , Yun Chunmei , Xu Maoye , Sun Dejun
Published: October 2017

Background

The difference in expression of sputum cells types between the two main types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is largely unknown. This study aims to investigate the difference and then wants to depend on sputum cells sorting to direct the treatment of COPD.

Methods

A total of 218 patients with stable COPD (FEV1 < 80%) were selected. Stable COPD patients (n = 218) were classified as eosinophilic (A phenotype) or noneosinophilic (B phenotype); sometimes, the subjects were separated into cough group (C phenotype) and dyspnea group (D phenotype). Cross‐sectional analysis was conducted comparing demographics and clinical characteristics. Receiver‐operating characteristic curve was used to assess predictive ability of sputum eosinophils for D phenotype.

Results

The A phenotype showed a higher correlation with the patients complaining of presenting with dyspnea on exertion, the dyspnea group (D phenotype). The B phenotype showed a higher prevalence of those who cough and product sputum, this was cough group (C phenotype). Sputum eosinophil and macrophages counts were significantly higher in patients with dyspnea (n = 95) compared to those with cough (P < .05), and neutrophils were significantly lower in patients with dyspnea (n = 95) compared to those with cough (P < .05). Percentage sputum eosinophil count was predictive of dyspnea (D phenotype) COPD with area under curve (AUC) of 0.831 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77‐0.89; P ≤ .001). Neutrophils were also predictive of dyspnea (D phenotype) COPD with AUC of 0.276 (95% CI 0.204–0.347; P ≤ .001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the morphological phenotypes of COPD show several clinical characteristics and different sputum cell sorting.
Squamous cell carcinoma in serous effusions: Avoiding pitfalls in this rare encounter
Authors: LePhong Christopher , Hubbard Elizabeth W. , Van Meter Stuart , Nodit Laurentia
Published: October 2017

Background

With advent of personalized medicine, precise classification of malignant tumors becomes essential. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is rarely found in serous effusions and has morphologic and immunohistochemical (IHC) overlap with other neoplasms.

Methods

17‐year review identified 49 fluids from 26 patients where SCC was recognized.

Results

SCC was more frequent in pleural fluid (84%) and rare in other effusions. Lung SCC was common (65%), followed by head and neck (16%), with other origins less represented. 19 samples were diagnosed positive for SCC, 12 were reported as non‐small cell carcinoma and 13 were atypical/suspicious. Two were false negative (on hypocellular smears) and one was false positive (smear with small orangeophilic squamous‐like cells). Two fluids were diagnosed as adenocarcinoma on smears and SCC on cellblocks after IHC. A chi‐square test showed the correct diagnosis more often on cellblocks than smears (P‐value = .0005) and all false positive, negative or misclassifications were done on cytology smears. Ber EP4 and MOC 31 immunostains were positive in most cases when performed, and the most specific immunostains for SCC were p63 and p40. Negative mucin stains were helpful. Cytology smears are imperfect tools in evaluation of body fluids and SCC can be misclassified as adenocarcinoma on smears alone. Orangeophilic cytoplasm can lead to false positive results. The most useful stains for identification were p40, p63, and mucicarmine.

Conclusion

The combination of clinical history with cellblock preparation and appropriate IHCs is the best method to ensure a correct diagnosis.
Range of therapeutic prothipendyl and prothipendyl sulfoxide concentrations in clinical blood samples
Authors: Krämer Michael , Heese Peter , Banger Markus , Madea Burkhard , Hess Cornelius
Published: October 2017

Due to a lack of reference blood concentrations in the literature, the forensic evaluation of prothipendyl findings in blood samples is difficult. Interpretations with regard to the assessment of blood concentrations as well as an estimation of the ingested prothipendyl amounts were often vague. To describe a concentration range in clinical samples, prothipendyl and prothipendyl sulfoxide concentrations were determined in serum samples of 50 psychiatric patients receiving 40 mg, 80 mg, or 160 mg doses of prothipendyl. The analyses of prothipendyl and prothipendyl sulfoxide were carried out using validated methods of high performance liquid chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC–QQQ–MS), respectively. 40 mg doses caused average prothipendyl serum concentrations of 18.0 ng/mL (1 hour after intake) and 7.9 ng/mL (10.5 hours after intake), while 80 mg doses caused averages of 42.6 ng/mL and 15.2 ng/mL at the mentioned times of sampling. Irrespective of the given dose, prothipendyl concentrations below 30 ng/mL were observed in 80% of the patient samples taken 1 hour after ingestion as well as in 90% of the samples collected 10.5 hours after administration. Serum concentrations of the Phase I metabolite prothipendyl sulfoxide averaged 4.3 ng/mL (1 hour after intake) and 3.6 ng/mL (10.5 hours after intake). Possible drug‐drug interactions regarding absorption and metabolism of prothipendyl are discussed. Results of the herein presented study are useful for the interpretation of analytical prothipendyl findings in forensic toxicology. The utility of the described concentration range is demonstrated by discussing two death cases involving prothipendyl findings.
Fungi reduce preference and performance of insect herbivores on challenged plants
Authors: Fernandez‐Conradi Pilar , Jactel Hervé , Robin Cécile , Tack Ayco J. M. , Castagneyrol Bastien
Published: October 2017

Although insect herbivores and fungal pathogens frequently share the same individual host plant, we lack general insights in how fungal infection affects insect preference and performance. We addressed this question in a meta‐analysis of 1,113 case studies gathered from 101 primary papers that compared preference or performance of insect herbivores on control vs. fungus challenged plants. Generally, insects preferred, and performed better on, not challenged plants, regardless of experimental conditions. Insect response to fungus infection significantly differed according to fungus lifestyle, insect feeding guild, and the spatial scale of the interaction (local/distant). Insect performance was reduced on plants challenged by biotrophic pathogens or endophytes but not by necrotrophic pathogens. For both chewing and piercing‐sucking insects, performance was reduced on challenged plants when interactions occurred locally but not distantly. In plants challenged by biotrophic pathogens, both preference and performance of herbivores were negatively impacted, whereas infection by necrotrophic pathogens reduced herbivore preference more than performance and endophyte infection reduced only herbivore performance. Our study demonstrates that fungi could be important but hitherto overlooked drivers of plant‐herbivore interactions, suggesting both direct and plant‐mediated effects of fungi on insect's behavior and development.
Duration of chronic heart failure affects outcomes with preserved effects of heart rate reduction with ivabradine: findings from SHIFT
Authors: Böhm Michael , Komajda Michel , Borer Jeffrey S. , Ford Ian , Maack Christoph , Tavazzi Luigi , Moyne Aurélie , Swedberg Karl ,   on behalf of the SHIFT Investigators
Published: October 2017

Aims

In heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction and sinus rhythm, heart rate reduction with ivabradine reduces the composite incidence of cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization.

Methods and results

It is unclear whether the duration of HF prior to therapy independently affects outcomes and whether it modifies the effect of heart rate reduction. In SHIFT, 6505 patients with chronic HF (left ventricular ejection fraction of ≤35%), in sinus rhythm, heart rate of ≥70 b.p.m., treated with guideline‐recommended therapies, were randomized to placebo or ivabradine. Outcomes and the treatment effect of ivabradine in patients with different durations of HF were examined. Prior to randomization, 1416 ivabradine and 1459 placebo patients had HF duration of ≥4 weeks and <1.5 years; 836 ivabradine and 806 placebo patients had HF duration of 1.5 years to <4 years, and 989 ivabradine and 999 placebo patients had HF duration of ≥4 years. Patients with longer duration of HF were older (62.5 years vs. 59.0 years; P < 0.0001), had more severe disease (New York Heart Association classes III/IV in 56% vs. 44.9%; P < 0.0001) and greater incidences of co‐morbidities [myocardial infarction: 62.9% vs. 49.4% (P < 0.0001); renal dysfunction: 31.5% vs. 21.5% (P < 0.0001); peripheral artery disease: 7.0% vs. 4.8% (P < 0.0001)] compared with patients with a more recent diagnosis. After adjustments, longer HF duration was independently associated with poorer outcome. Effects of ivabradine were independent of HF duration.

Conclusions

Duration of HF predicts outcome independently of risk indicators such as higher age, greater severity and more co‐morbidities. Heart rate reduction with ivabradine improved outcomes independently of HF duration. Thus, HF treatments should be initiated early and it is important to characterize HF populations according to the chronicity of HF in future trials.
Circulating microRNA‐132 levels improve risk prediction for heart failure hospitalization in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Masson Serge , Batkai Sandor , Beermann Julia , Bär Christian , Pfanne Angelika , Thum Sabrina , Magnoli Michela , Balconi Giovanna , Nicolosi Gian Luigi , Tavazzi Luigi , Latini Roberto , Thum Thomas
Published: October 2017

Aims

Non‐coding microRNAs (miRNAs) are critically involved in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Since they are measurable in most body fluids, they have been proposed as circulating biomarkers. We examined the prognostic value of a specific candidate miRNA in a large cohort of patients with chronic heart failure (HF) enrolled in a multicentre clinical trial.

Methods and results

Plasma levels of miR‐132 were measured using miRNA‐specific PCR‐based technologies at randomization in 953 patients with chronic, symptomatic HF from the GISSI‐Heart Failure trial. The association with fatal (all‐cause and cardiovascular death) and non‐fatal events (time to first admission to hospital for cardiovascular reasons or worsening of HF) and the incremental risk prediction were estimated in adjusted models. Higher circulating miR‐132 levels were independently associated with younger age, better renal filtration, ischaemic aetiology of HF, more severe HF symptoms, higher diastolic blood pressure, higher cholesterol, and male sex. After extensive adjustment for demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic risk factors and baseline NT‐proBNP concentrations, miR‐132 remained associated only with HF hospitalizations (hazard ratio 0.79, 95% confidence interval 0.66–0.95, P = 0.01) and improved its risk prediction with the continuous net reclassification index (cNRI 0.205, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

In well characterized patients with chronic HF, circulating miR‐132 levels rise with the severity of HF. Lower circulating miR‐132 levels improved risk prediction for HF readmission beyond traditional risk factors, but not for mortality. MiR‐132 may be helpful to intensify strategies aimed at reducing re‐hospitalization, which has a substantial health and economic burden in HF.
Synthesis and Regioselective N‐2 Functionalization of 4‐Fluoro‐5‐aryl‐1,2,3‐NH‐triazoles
Authors: Motornov Vladimir A. , Tabolin Andrey A. , Novikov Roman A. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Ioffe Sema L. , Smolyar Ivan V. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: October 2017

A new efficient synthetic route to 4‐fluoro‐5‐aryl‐1,2,3‐NH‐triazoles was elaborated. The reactions of NaN3 with aryl‐substituted α‐fluoronitroalkenes resulted in the domino construction of the target fluorinated triazoles. Sulfamic acid is an effective promoter for this heterocyclization. The subsequent functionalization reactions of the obtained triazoles proceed highly regioselectively at the N‐2 position. The observed regioselectivity was supported by DFT calculations.
Floristic Composition, Life‐forms and Chorotypes of Al‐Asabah region, Ash Shamayatayn District, Taiz Governorate, Yemen
Authors: Al‐Hawshabi Othman Saad Saeed
Published: October 2017

The present study deals with the floristic composition of the flora, life forms and phytogeographical affinities in Al‐Asabah region, Ash Shamayatayn district, Taiz governorate, Yemen, during the year 2013. In this research 34 families, 63 genera and 82 taxa were identified. Among them were 6 species of Pteridophyta, while the remaining 76 taxa belong to Angiospermae. The dicots are represented by 72 taxa, whereas the monocots are represented by 4 species. The largest of the families include: Acanthaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Asteraceae and Euphorbiaceae (7 species for each) and Fabaceae (6 species). The genera represented by the greatest number of species are Acacia and Heliotropium (4 species for both). It was also noted that the generic index is 1.30. The chief life forms include Chamaephytes (50%), Phanerophytes (20.73%) and Geophytes (12.20%). The Sudano‐Zambezian element dominates and forms the major component of the floristic structure. Results also reveal that sixteen taxa (19.51%) are endemic, among them are five taxa (6.10%) which are endemic to Yemen alone, while the remaining (13.41%) are near endemic to the flora of Yemen.
Immunization with α‐synuclein/Grp94 reshapes peripheral immunity and suppresses microgliosis in a chronic Parkinsonism model
Authors: Villadiego Javier , Labrador‐Garrido Adahir , Franco Jaime M. , Leal‐Lasarte Magdalena , De Genst Erwin J. , Dobson Christopher M. , Pozo David , Toledo‐Aral Juan J. , Roodveldt Cintia
Published: October 2017

Neuroinflammation mediated by chronically activated microglia, largely caused by abnormal accumulation of misfolded α‐synuclein (αSyn) protein, is known to contribute to the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease (PD). In this work, based on the immunomodulatory activities displayed by particular heat‐shock proteins (HSPs), we tested a novel vaccination strategy that used a combination of αSyn and Grp94 (HSPC4 or Gp96) chaperone and a murine PD model. We used two different procedures, first, the adoptive transfer of splenocytes from αSyn/Grp94‐immunized mice to recipient animals, and second, direct immunization with αSyn/Grp94, to study the effects in a chronic mouse MPTP‐model of parkinsonism. We found that both approaches promoted a distinct profile in the peripheral system—supported by humoral and cellular immunity—consisting of a Th1‐shifted αSyn‐specific response accompanied by an immune‐regulatory/Th2‐skewed general phenotype. Remarkably, this mixed profile sustained by αSyn/Grp94 immunization led to strong suppression of microglial activation in the substantia nigra and striatum, pointing to a newly described positive effect of anti‐αSyn Th1‐responses in the context of PD. This strategy is the first to target αSyn and report the suppression of PD‐associated microgliosis. Overall, we show that the αSyn/Grp94 combination supports a distinct and long‐lasting immune profile in the peripheral system, which has an impact at the CNS level by suppressing chronic microglial activation in an MPTP model of PD. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that reshaping peripheral immunity by vaccination with appropriate misfolding protein/HSP combinations could be highly beneficial as a treatment for neurodegenerative misfolding diseases.
A DFT study of O2 and Cl2 adsorption onto Al12N12 fullerene‐like nanocluster
Authors: Shokuhi Rad Ali , Bagheri Novir Samaneh , Mohseni Soheil , Ramezani Cherati Nadia , Mirabi Ali
Published: October 2017

In this study, the adsorption and dissociation of chlorine and oxygen molecules on the surface of Al12N12 nanocluster have been investigated by density functional theory (DFT). Traditional B3LYP and dispersion‐corrected (ωB97XD) functionals have been used to optimize the studied structures. One relaxed structure for adsorbed Cl2 and two for adsorbed O2 (denoted as P1 and P2 configurations) have been found. Both functionals showed strong chemisorption of O2 compared to Cl2 on nanocluster. The dispersion‐corrected (ωB97XD) binding energies of Cl2 and O2 (P1 and P2) on Al12N12 are calculated to be −32.4 (−29.1 BSSE corrected), −60.6 (−47.0 BSSE corrected), and −217.8 (−191.4 BSSE corrected) kJ/mol, respectively. We can conclude that in the suitable configuration, the adsorption of O2 associates with significant charge transfer as well as dissociation. The Gibbs free energies of all adsorptions were calculated and their values confirm exothermic spontaneous adsorption of both molecules on nanocluster.
Protein arginine methyl transferase 1– and Jumonji C domain‐containing protein 6–dependent arginine methylation regulate hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha expression and hepatocyte proliferation in mice
Authors: Zhao Jie , Adams Abby , Roberts Ben , O'Neil Maura , Vittal Anusha , Schmitt Timothy , Kumer Sean , Cox Josiah , Li Zhuan , Weinman Steven A. , Tikhanovich Irina
Published: October 2017

Alcohol is a well‐established risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the mechanisms by which it promotes liver cancer are not well understood. Several studies have shown that cellular protein arginine methylation is inhibited by alcohol. Arginine methylation is controlled by the reciprocal activity of protein arginine methyltransferases, primarily protein arginine methyl transferase 1 (PRMT1), and a demethylase Jumonji C domain‐containing protein 6 (JMJD6). The aim of this study was to explore the role of arginine methylation changes in alcohol pathogenesis. We found that PRMT1 activity is inhibited in livers of mice fed with alcohol compared to pair‐fed mice. Using hepatocyte‐specific PRMT1 knockout mice, we identified that loss of PRMT1 results in enhanced hepatocyte proliferation and a 33% increase in liver size. This increased hepatocyte proliferation was associated with reduced expression of hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (Hnf4α), an important regulator of liver tumorigenesis. We found that PRMT1 regulates Hnf4α expression directly through arginine methylation at the (Hnf4α) promoter. In the absence of PRMT1, JMJD6 can demethylate the Hnf4α promoter and suppress its expression. We were able to restore Hnf4α expression and abolish the increase in hepatocyte proliferation by knockdown of JMJD6 in PRMT1 knockout mice. Knockdown of JMJD6 in alcohol‐fed mice similarly increased Hnf4α expression. We then examined whether loss of arginine methylation might play a role in alcohol‐associated liver cancers. We examined 25 human HCC specimens and found a strong correlation (R = 0.8; P < 0.01) between arginine methylation levels and Hnf4α expression in these specimens, suggesting that the above mechanism is relevant in patients. Conclusion: Taken together, these data suggest that PRMT1 inhibition, such as induced by alcohol, may result in epigenetic changes leading to loss of Hnf4α. This effect may contribute to alcohol's ability to promote liver tumors. (Hepatology 2018;67:1109–1126)