bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of distributor on fluidized bed hydrodynamics
Authors: Rahimpour Fereshteh , Zarghami Reza , Mostoufi Navid
Published: May 2017

In this work, the effect of distributor type on fluidized bed hydrodynamics was studied by taking into account time, frequency, and state space domains. For this purpose, pressure fluctuations were measured in a fluidized bed with 0.15 m diameter and the experiments were carried out for three different types of distributors (perforated plate, bubble cap, and porous plate) at different sizes and various superficial gas velocities and particle sizes. Time domain analysis demonstrated that while the initial bubble size on the bubble cap distributor is greater than that on the perforated plate, the standard deviation of pressure fluctuations is greatest in a bed equipped with the porous plate, followed by the perforated plate and then the bubble cap distributor. Based on the current analysis and in view of the frequency domain analysis, it was found that the contribution of finer structures (small bubbles and clusters) is highest for a porous plate, followed by a bubble cap and then a perforated plate distributor. Also, according to the S‐statistic method, it was concluded that the S‐test is a reliable method for detection of differences between hydrodynamic situations of fluidized beds, while different types of distributors were used.
Atlantic small‐mammal: a dataset of communities of rodents and marsupials of the Atlantic forests of South America
Authors: Bovendorp Ricardo S. , Villar Nacho , de Abreu‐Junior Edson F. , Bello Carolina , Regolin André L. , Percequillo Alexandre R. , Galetti Mauro
Published: May 2017

The contribution of small mammal ecology to the understanding of macroecological patterns of biodiversity, population dynamics, and community assembly has been hindered by the absence of large datasets of small mammal communities from tropical regions. Here we compile the largest dataset of inventories of small mammal communities for the Neotropical region. The dataset reviews small mammal communities from the Atlantic forest of South America, one of the regions with the highest diversity of small mammals and a global biodiversity hotspot, though currently covering less than 12% of its original area due to anthropogenic pressures. The dataset comprises 136 references from 300 locations covering seven vegetation types of tropical and subtropical Atlantic forests of South America, and presents data on species composition, richness, and relative abundance (captures/trap‐nights). One paper was published more than 70 yr ago, but 80% of them were published after 2000. The dataset comprises 53,518 individuals of 124 species of small mammals, including 30 species of marsupials and 94 species of rodents. Species richness averaged 8.2 species (1–21) per site. Only two species occurred in more than 50% of the sites (the common opossum, Didelphis aurita and black‐footed pigmy rice rat Oligoryzomys nigripes). Mean species abundance varied 430‐fold, from 4.3 to 0.01 individuals/trap‐night. The dataset also revealed a hyper‐dominance of 22 species that comprised 78.29% of all individuals captured, with only seven species representing 44% of all captures. The information contained on this dataset can be applied in the study of macroecological patterns of biodiversity, communities, and populations, but also to evaluate the ecological consequences of fragmentation and defaunation, and predict disease outbreaks, trophic interactions and community dynamics in this biodiversity hotspot.
Phylogeny is a powerful tool for predicting plant biomass responses to nitrogen enrichment
Authors: Wooliver Rachel C. , Marion Zachary H. , Peterson Christopher R. , Potts Brad M. , Senior John K. , Bailey Joseph K. , Schweitzer Jennifer A.
Published: May 2017

Increasing rates of anthropogenic nitrogen (N) enrichment to soils often lead to the dominance of nitrophilic plant species and reduce plant diversity in natural ecosystems. Yet, we lack a framework to predict which species will be winners or losers in soil N enrichment scenarios, a framework that current literature suggests should integrate plant phylogeny, functional tradeoffs, and nutrient co‐limitation. Using a controlled fertilization experiment, we quantified biomass responses to N enrichment for 23 forest tree species within the genus Eucalyptus that are native to Tasmania, Australia. Based on previous work with these species' responses to global change factors and theory on the evolution of plant resource‐use strategies, we hypothesized that (1) growth responses to N enrichment are phylogenetically structured, (2) species with more resource‐acquisitive functional traits have greater growth responses to N enrichment, and (3) phosphorus (P) limits growth responses to N enrichment differentially across species, wherein P enrichment increases growth responses to N enrichment more in some species than others. We built a hierarchical Bayesian model estimating effects of functional traits (specific leaf area, specific stem density, and specific root length) and P fertilization on species' biomass responses to N, which we then compared between lineages to determine whether phylogeny explains variation in responses to N. In concordance with literature on N limitation, a majority of species responded strongly and positively to N enrichment. Mean responses ranged three‐fold, from 6.21 (E. pulchella) to 16.87 (E. delegatensis) percent increases in biomass per g N·m−2·yr−1 added. We identified a strong difference in responses to N between two phylogenetic lineages in the Eucalyptus subgenus Symphyomyrtus, suggesting that shared ancestry explains variation in N limitation. However, our model indicated that after controlling for phylogenetic non‐independence, eucalypt responses to N were not associated with functional traits (although post‐hoc analyses show a phylogenetic pattern in specific root length similar to that of responses to N), nor were responses differentially limited by P. Overall, our model results suggest that phylogeny is a powerful predictor of winners and losers in anthropogenic N enrichment scenarios in Tasmanian eucalypts, which may have implications for other species.
Total fatty acid content, antioxidant composition, antioxidant activity, and content of oil from crambe seeds cultivated with phosphorus
Authors: de Aguiar Caroline Mariana , Sampaio Silvio Cesar , Santos Kátia Andressa , da Silva Edson Antônio , Piana Pitágoras Augusto , Richart Alfredo , dos Reis Ralpho Rinaldo
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study was to determine parameters of crambe oil culvtived with phosphorus (P), with respect to oil content, fatty acid composition, minor compounds, and total antioxidant activity. The experiment followed a randomized block design, with five doses of P (0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg P ha−1) and four replications. All results were subjected to analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) 5% significance. The P dose had a negative linear association with δ‐tocopherol and total antioxidant activity, and a positive association with stigmasterol and total carotenoids. P influenced the concentrations of β‐sitosterol and campesterol, whereas the remaining variables (content, α‐tocopherol, β + γ‐tocopherol, fatty acids, total phenolic compounds, and chlorophylla) were not affected. This study show a positive effect the concentrations of compounds that act as antioxidants in crambe oil, which can influence with its oxidation stability.

Practical applications:Is relevant the studies concerning the oxidative stability of inedible vegetable oils, such as crambe, in terms of the composition of antioxidants and fatty acids, as this affects the conservation, storage and refining costs, and the quality of the products, considering the many uses of this oil, such as biodiesel, lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, synthetic rubber, plastic films, nylon, and adhesives, among other products.

Phosphorus (P) plays an important role in synthesis processes performed by plants such as, functions in cell energy transfer, respiration, and photosynthesis, with an emphasis on processes related to the flow of energy and products stored in grains. In this study, P influenced on the concentrations of compounds such phytosterols and carotenoids, which shows a positive effect in concentrations of compounds that act as antioxidants in crambe oil.
β‐Amino‐γ,γ‐difluoro‐ω‐phosphonoglutamic Acid Derivatives: An Unexplored, Multifaceted Structural Type of Tailor‐Made α‐Amino Acids
Authors: Zhang Wenzhong , Sha Wanxing , Pajkert Romana , Mei Haibo , Pan Yi , Han Jianlin , Röschenthaler Gerd‐Volker , Soloshonok Vadim A.
Published: May 2017

Properly protected glycinates (Schiff base, alkyl/aryl ester) cleanly reacted with chiral sulfinyl‐derived difluoro(phosphoryl)aldimines under ambient conditions in THF in the presence of a catalytic amount of Cs2CO3. The procedure was operationally simple and provided the target addition products in good (60–80 %) yields with excellent (99:1) diastereoselectivity. This approach allowed the preparation of a structural type of biologically interesting molecules comprising α,β‐diamino acid, carboxylic acid, and phosphonic acid structural features. Chemoselective operation of the α‐ and β‐amino functional groups was demonstrated by the preparation of all‐α‐ and mixed‐α,β‐amino acid derived dipeptides.
High‐throughput metabolic profiling based on small amount of hepatic cells
Authors: Zhou Lina , Yin Peiyuan , Luo Ping , Tang Ling , Wang Zhichao , Gao Peng , Piao Hailong , Lu Xin , Xu Guowang
Published: May 2017

Common metabolomics platforms require about 106 cells, which has a limited throughput due to the time‐consuming steps of cell culture and preparation. There is a demand for metabolic profiling methods to improve analytical throughput and detection sensitivity based on small amount of cells. In this study, we proposed a high‐throughput scheme, integrating 96‐well plate cell cultivation, in‐situ cell pretreatment, and sensitive dansylation labeling coupled with LC‐MS analysis of metabolites inside HepG2 cells (of the order of magnitude of 103 cells in each well). A simple and rapid cell pretreatment was performed showing good extraction efficiency and good precision (the RSDs smaller than 5%) for polar metabolites. The recovery in metabolite extraction evaluated with three isotope‐labeled amino acids was from 89.7 to 106.3% at low, medium, and high concentrations. The suitability of the method was illustrated by exploring influences of different fatty acids on HepG2 cells.
Oil palm frond as a sustainable and promising biomass source in Malaysia: A review
Authors: Ooi Zhong Xian , Teoh Yi Peng , Kunasundari Balakrishnan , Shuit Siew Hoong
Published: May 2017

As the world second largest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia, Malaysia's palm oil industries generate huge amount of biomass especially after pruning or harvesting the fresh bunch. The generated oil palm biomass includes empty fruit brunch (EFB), palm kernel shell, oil palm trunk (OPT), oil palm frond (OPF), palm oil mill effluent (POME), and mesocarp fiber. Among the generated oil palm biomass, OPF is by far the highest in quantity, accounting for more than 50% of the total biomass generated in the oil palm industries. Therefore, OPF appears to be a very promising source of raw materials in Malaysia. Considerable amount of researches have been carried out to investigate the nutritional value and economic viability of OPF and its suitability for reused as recycle energy, nutrients, or being transformed into value‐added end products. Thus, this article aims to present an overview on the current scenario in Malaysian's palm oil industries, covering topics on the availability and the characterization of OPF. This article also emphasizes on the superior recycling of OPF in various fields and major challenges in the utilization of OPF. Based on the findings presented, it is definitely clear that OPF has the potential to serve as sustainable and promising biomass source for Malaysia, not only to reduce the environmental problem caused by openly burnt or landfill disposal of OPF but also to generate extra revenue for the country. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1864–1874, 2017
polyhydroxyalkanoate production from different carbon substrates using sludge from a wastewater treatment plant: Microbial communities, polymer compositions, and thermal characteristics
Authors: Woraittinun Naleumon , Suwannasilp Benjaporn Boonchayaanant
Published: May 2017

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) is a microbial storage biopolymer that can be used in biodegradable plastics. This study investigates the effects of two carbon substrates (acetate and propionate) on PHA production using sludge from a wastewater treatment plant in terms of their microbial communities, PHA contents, polymer compositions and structures, and thermal characteristics of the PHA. Sludge was enriched aerobically with acetate or propionate in sequencing batch reactors (SBRs) under feast/famine feeding conditions. The sludge enriched with acetate produced a homopolymer of hydroxybutyrate (HB) and accumulated a maximum PHA of 44.78% gPHA/g mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS). In contrast, the sludge enriched with propionate produced a copolymer of HB and hydroxyvalerate (HV) and accumulated a maximum PHA of 12.65% gPHA/gMLSS. The results from the microbial community analysis using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing showed that bacteria belonging to the phylum Bacteroidetes and class Alphaproteobacteria appeared to be dominant in the system fed with acetate when PHA content was at its maximum. In contrast, Alphaproteobacteria and Gammaproteobacteria were dominant in the system fed with propionate when the PHA content was at its maximum. The PHA produced from acetate also had a higher melting temperature, higher glass transition temperature, and higher crystallinity than did that produced from propionate. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1754–1764, 2017
An hp‐adaptive unstructured finite volume solver for compressible flows
Authors: Jalali Alireza , Ollivier‐Gooch Carl
Published: May 2017

The idea of hp‐adaptation, which has originally been developed for compact schemes (such as finite element methods), suggests an adaptation scheme using a mixture of mesh refinement and order enrichment based on the smoothness of the solution to obtain an accurate solution efficiently. In this paper, we develop an hp‐adaptation framework for unstructured finite volume methods using residual‐based and adjoint‐based error indicators. For the residual‐based error indicator, we use a higher‐order discrete operator to estimate the truncation error, whereas this estimate is weighted by the solution of the discrete adjoint problem for an output of interest to form the adaptation indicator for adjoint‐based adaptations. We perform our adaptation by local subdivision of cells with nonconforming interfaces allowed and local reconstruction of higher‐order polynomials for solution approximations. We present our results for two‐dimensional compressible flow problems including subsonic inviscid, transonic inviscid, and subsonic laminar flow around the NACA 0012 airfoil and also turbulent flow over a flat plate. Our numerical results suggest the efficiency and accuracy advantages of adjoint‐based hp‐adaptations over uniform refinement and also over residual‐based adaptation for flows with and without singularities.
Simultaneous inhibition of NMDA and mGlu1/5 receptors by levo‐corydalmine in rat spinal cord attenuates bone cancer pain
Authors: Dai Wen‐Ling , Yan Bing , Jiang Nan , Wu Juan‐Juan , Liu Xiu‐Feng , Liu Ji‐Hua , Yu Bo‐Yang
Published: May 2017

Bone cancer pain is a challenge for its not completely clarified mechanism and broad clinical morbidity. Therefore, novel and more effective drugs are urgent needed for improvement of patients’ quality of life. Glutamate receptors have been associated with the development of the central sensitization of chronic pain. Inhibition of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors can effectively attenuate bone cancer pain, respectively. Herein, our results indicated that levo‐Corydalmine (l‐CDL), a compound from Corydalis yanhusuo W.T. Wang, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for pain relief could effectively attenuate bone cancer pain induced by tibia bone cavity tumor cell implantation (TCI) through simultaneously inhibiting the NMDA and mGlu1/5 receptors in rat spinal cord without notable side effects. Both intragastric and intrathecal administration of l‐CDL significantly alleviated the mechanical hypersensitivity induced by TCI in rats, and the analgesic effect of l‐CDL could be reversed by intrathecal administration of NMDA receptor agonist NMDA and mGlu1/5 receptor agonist DHPG but not AMPA receptor agonist AMPA. l‐CDL could also selectively suppress NMDA and DHPG induced rapid rise in Ca2+ oscillations in primary cultures neurons of spinal cord in vitro. The antinociception of l‐CDL were partially mediated by the reduced phosphorylation of PKC γ and ERK1/2 in spinal cord of TCI rats in a NMDA and mGlu1/5 dependent manner. In conclusion, these results suggested that l‐CDL attenuates TCI induced bone cancer pain through simultaneously inhibiting the NMDA and mGlu1/5 receptors and the downstream PKC γ, ERK1/2 signaling pathways in the spinal cord.
Discovery and validation of candidate host DNA methylation markers for detection of cervical precancer and cancer
Authors: Clarke Megan A. , Luhn Patricia , Gage Julia C. , Bodelon Clara , Dunn S. Terence , Walker Joan , Zuna Rosemary , Hewitt Stephen , Killian J. Keith , Yan Liying , Miller Andrew , Schiffman Mark , Wentzensen Nicolas
Published: May 2017

Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing has been recently introduced as an alternative to cytology for cervical cancer screening. However, since most HPV infections clear without causing clinically relevant lesions, additional triage tests are required to identify women who are at high risk of developing cancer. We performed DNA methylation profiling on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue specimens from women with benign HPV16 infection and histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3, and cancer using a bead‐based microarray covering 1,500 CpG sites in over 800 genes. Methylation levels in individual CpG sites were compared using a t‐test, and results were summarized by computing p‐values. A total of 12 candidate genes (ADCYAP1, ASCL1, ATP10, CADM1, DCC, DBC1, HS3ST2, MOS, MYOD1, SOX1, SOX17 and TMEFF2) identified by DNA methylation profiling, plus an additional three genes identified from the literature (EPB41L3, MAL and miR‐124) were chosen for validation in an independent set of 167 liquid‐based cytology specimens using pyrosequencing and targeted, next‐generation bisulfite sequencing. Of the 15 candidate gene markers, 10 had an area under the curve (AUC) of ≥ 0.75 for discrimination of high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+) from <HSIL cytology using at least one assay. Overall, SOX1, DCC, and EPB41L3 showed the best discrimination with AUC values of ≥0.80, irrespective of methylation detection assay. In addition to verifying candidate markers from the literature (e.g., SOX1 and EPB41L3), we identified novel markers that may be considered for detection of cervical precancer and cancer and warrant further validation in prospective studies.
Prognostic factors of maternal near miss events and maternal deaths in a tertiary healthcare facility in India
Authors: Khan Tabassum , Laul Poonam , Laul Anish , Ramzan Mohammed
Published: May 2017

Objective

To study maternal near miss (MNM) and maternal mortality to identify rectifiable risk factors.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional retrospective study included pregnant women who experienced acute life‐threatening pregnancy‐related adverse events at Deen Dayal Upadhyay hospital, New Delhi, India, between September 1, 2009, and August 31, 2011. Patient data were analyzed to investigate factors associated with MNM events and maternal deaths.

Results

There were 369 patients included, and 302 MNM events and 67 maternal deaths were recorded. The recorded causes of MNM events included hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, severe anemia with cardiac failure, organ failure, and infection in 192 (63.6%), 62 (20.5%), 13 (4.3%), 8 (2.6%), and 8 (2.6%) patients, respectively. Higher rates of anemia (P=0.007) and infection (P=0.007) were recorded among patients in the maternal death group than the MNMN group.

Conclusion

Hemorrhage and hypertension were major causes of MNM events and are likely major barriers to reducing maternal mortality in low‐income countries. Anemia and infection were significant prognostic factors of maternal death in the present study. MNM could be used as surrogate for maternal death in the provision of standard obstetric care.
Alternative plasticizer, 4‐cyclohexene‐1,2‐dicarboxylic acid dinonyl ester, for blood containers with protective effects on red blood cells and improved cold resistance
Authors: Morishita Yuki , Nomura Yusuke , Fukui Chie , Fujisawa Ayano , Watanabe Kayo , Fujimaki Hideo , Kumada Hidefumi , Inoue Kaoru , Morikawa Tomomi , Takahashi Miwa , Kawakami Tsuyoshi , Sakoda Hideyuki , Mukai Tomokazu , Yuba Toshiyasu , Inamura Ken‐ichi , Tanoue Akito , Miyazaki Ken‐ichi , Chung Ung‐il , Ogawa Kumiko , Yoshida Midori , Haishima Yuji
Published: May 2017

Di (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a typical plasticizer used for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), is eluted from PVC‐made blood containers and protects against red blood cell (RBC) hemolysis. However, concerns have arisen regarding the reproductive and developmental risks of DEHP in humans, and the use of alternative plasticizers for medical devices has been recommended worldwide. In this study, we propose that the use of a novel plasticizer, 4‐cyclohexene‐1,2‐dicarboxylic acid dinonyl ester (DL9TH), could help produce more useful and safe blood containers. PVC sheet containing DL9TH and di (2‐ethylhexyl) 4‐cyclohexene‐1,2‐dicarboxylate (DOTH) provides comparable or superior protective effects to RBCs relative to PVC sheet containing DEHP or di‐isononyl‐cyclohexane‐1,2‐dicarboxylate (DINCH®, an alternative plasticizer that has been used in PVC sheets for blood containers). The total amount of plasticizer eluted from DOTH/DL9TH‐PVC sheets is nearly the same as that eluted from DEHP‐PVC sheets. In addition, DOTH/DL9TH‐PVC has better cold resistance than DEHP‐ and DINCH®‐PVC sheets. In vitro and in vivo tests for biological safety based on International Organization for Standardization guidelines (10993 series) suggest that the DOTH/DL9TH‐PVC sheet can be used safely. Subchronic toxicity testing of DL9TH in male rats in accordance with the principles of Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development Test Guideline 408 showed that DL9TH did not induce adverse effects up to the highest dose level tested (717 mg/kg body weight/day). There were no effects on testicular histopathology and sperm counts, and no indications of endocrine effects: testosterone, thyroid‐stimulating hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone, and 17β‐estradiol were unchanged by the treatment, compared with the control group. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1052–1063, 2018.
The novel role of pyrvinium in cancer therapy
Authors: Momtazi‐borojeni Amir A. , Abdollahi Elham , Ghasemi Faezeh , Caraglia Michele , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: May 2017

Pyrvinium pamoate (PP) is a quinoline‐derived cyanine dye which was officially approved by FDA for its anthelmintic properties and therapeutic function against animal‐like protists such as Cryptosporidium parvum and Plasmodium falciparum in the 1950s. In the last 10 years, several studies have shown the novel activity of pyrvinium in tumor therapy. Some investigations have indicated that pyrvinium could delay or inhibit tumor cell proliferation in cancer models including colon, breast, lung and prostate cancer, and some hematological malignancies. In this review, we discuss multiple critical signaling pathways and mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of PP. In details, pyrvinium acts through the following main mechanisms: (i) energy and autophagy depletion; and (ii) inhibition of Akt and Wnt‐β‐catenin‐dependent pathways. Interestingly, pyrvinium has also shown potent anti‐cancer stem cell activity. The overwhelming insights into the mechanism of anticancer properties of PP can help establishing novel and future anti‐tumor treatment strategies.
MSCs ameliorates DPN induced cellular pathology via [Ca2+]i homeostasis and scavenging the pro‐inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Chandramoorthy Harish C. , Bin‐Jaliah Ismaeel , Karari Hussian , Rajagopalan Prasanna , Ahmed Shariff Mohammed Eajaz , Al‐Hakami Ahmed , Al‐Humayad Suliman M. , Baptain Fawzi A. , Ahmed Humeda Suekit , Yassin Hanaa Z. , Haidara Mohamed A.
Published: May 2017

The MSCs of various origins are known to ameliorate or modulate cell survival strategies. We investigated, whether UCB MSCs could improve the survival of the human neuronal cells and/or fibroblast assaulted with DPN sera. The results showed, the co‐culture of UCB MSCs with human neuronal cells and/or fibroblasts could effectively scavenge the pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IFN‐ɤ and IL − 12 and control the pro‐apoptotic expression of p53/Bax. Further co‐culture of UCB MSCs have shown to induce anti‐inflammatory cytokines like IL‐4, IL‐10 and TGF‐β and anti‐apoptotic Bclxl/Bcl2 expression in the DPN sera stressed cells. Amelioration of elevated [Ca2+]i and cROS, the portent behind the NFκB/Caspase‐3 mediated inflammation in DPN rescued the cells from apoptosis. The results of systemic administration of BM MSCs improved DPN pathology in rat as extrapolated from human cell model. The BM MSCs ameliorated prolonged distal motor latency (control: 0.70 ± 0.06, DPN: 1.29 ± 0.13 m/s DPN + BM MSCs: 0.89 ± 0.02 m/s, p < 0.05) and lowered high amplitude of compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) (control: 12.36 ± 0.41, DPN: 7.52 ± 0.61 mV, DPN + MSCs: 8.79 ± 0.53 mV, p < 0.05), while slowly restoring the plasma glucose levels. Together, all these results showed that administration of BM or UCB MSCs improved the DPN via ameliorating pro‐inflammatory cytokine signaling and [Ca2+]i homeostasis.
Biological function and histone recognition of family IV bromodomain‐containing proteins
Authors: Lloyd Jonathan T. , Glass Karen C.
Published: May 2017

Bromodomain proteins function as epigenetic readers that recognize acetylated histone tails to facilitate the transcription of target genes. There are approximately 60 known human bromodomains, which are divided into eight sub‐families based on structural conservation. The bromodomain‐containing proteins in family IV include seven members (BRPF1, BRPF2, BRPF3, BRD7, BRD9, ATAD2, and ATAD2b). The bromodomains of each of these proteins recognize and bind acetyllysine residues on histone tails protruding from the nucleosome. However, the histone marks recognized by each bromodomain protein can be very different. The BRPF1 subunit of the MOZ histone acetyltransferase (HAT) recognizes acetylated histones H2AK5ac, H4K12ac, H3K14ac, H4K8ac, and H4K5ac. While the bromodomain of BRD7, a member of the SWI/SNF complex, was shown to preferentially recognize acetylated histones H3K9ac, H3K14ac, H4K8ac, H4K12ac, and H4K16ac. The bromodomains of BRPF2 and BRPF3 have similar sequences, and function as part of the HBO1 HAT complex, but there is limited data on which histone ligands they bind. Similarly, there is little known about the histone targets of the BRD9 and ATAD2b bromodomain proteins. Interestingly, the ATAD2 bromodomain was recently shown to preferentially bind to the di‐acetylated H4K5acK12ac mark found in newly synthesized histones following DNA replication. However, despite the physiological importance of the family IV bromodomains, little is known about how they function at the molecular or atomic level. In this review, we summarize our understanding of how family IV bromodomains recognize and select for acetyllysine marks and discuss the importance of acetylated histone recognition for their biological functions.
Fabrication of Ni‐Fe LDH/GF anode for enhanced Fe(III) regeneration in fuel cell‐assisted chelated‐iron dehydrosulfurization process
Authors: Zhai Lin‐Feng , Mao Hai‐Zhou , Sun Min
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

The incorporation of an air‐cathode fuel cell into the chelated iron dehydrosulfurization process realizes simultaneous recovery of electricity and elemental sulfur from H2S. However, the slow oxidation kinetics of chelated Fe(II) in the fuel cell limits the efficiency of such a process.

RESULTS

A novel Ni–Fe layered double hydroxides/graphite felt (Ni‐Fe LDH/GF) anode is fabricated to speed up the electro‐oxidation of chelated Fe(II). The prepared Ni‐Fe LDH gives a formula of Ni0.68Fe0.32(OH)2(CO3)0.16·yH2O and covers the GF as nano‐scaled hexagonal plate. The Ni‐Fe LDH demonstrates stable catalytic activity towards the electro‐oxidation of Fe(II)‐EDTA, evidenced by the enhanced reaction rate and decreased reaction resistance at LDH modified GF. As a result, the total time for Fe(II)‐EDTA oxidation in the fuel cell reduces significantly from 90 to 50 h when Ni‐Fe LDH/GF composite is used instead of GF, and the coulombic efficiency (CE) of circuit is increased by 53% concomitantly. The catalysis activity of Ni‐Fe LDH is proposed to be due to its anion‐exchange ability for Fe(EDTA)2− and Fe(OH)(EDTA)3−, which benefits the diffusion of the two dominant Fe(II) species onto the electrode surface to perform electro‐oxidation.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the fabricated Ni‐Fe LDH/GF anode material is suitable for enhancing the Fe(III) regeneration in an air‐cathode fuel cell, and can further improve the efficiency of the chelated‐iron dehydrosulfurization process. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Epidemiological analysis and follow‐up of human rhinovirus infection in children with asthma exacerbation
Authors: Zheng Shou‐Yan , Wang Li‐Li , Ren Luo , Luo Jian , Liao Wei , Liu En‐Mei
Published: May 2017

To determine the prevalence of human rhinovirus (HRV) infection in children with acute asthma exacerbations, investigation of HRV viral load and severity of asthma exacerbations is also required. Nasopharyngeal aspirates and swabs were collected and assessed for respiratory viruses. HRV‐positive samples were sequenced to identify types and determine viral load. Outpatients with asthma exacerbations underwent follow‐up evaluations, their swabs were collected and clinical outcomes were recorded at their next clinic visit 4 weeks later. One hundred forty‐three inpatients and 131 outpatients, including 88 patients with asthma exacerbations and 43 controls with stable asthma were recruited. HRV‐A was mainly detected in September and February (45.5% and 33.3%, respectively), while HRV‐C was mainly detected in November and April (70.0% and 55.6%, respectively). HRV‐C was the primary type and was primarily found in inpatients with severe asthma exacerbations. HRV‐A viral load in the group of inpatients with severe exacerbations was higher than in the mild and moderate groups (P < 0.001 and P = 0.022). The HRV‐A viral load of both inpatients and outpatients was higher than that of HRV‐C (P < 0.001 and P = 0.036). The main genotypes were HRV‐C53 and HRV‐A20 among inpatients, and this genotype caused more severe clinical manifestations. HRV persisted for no more than 4 weeks, and their symptoms or signs of disease were well‐controlled well. HRV‐C was most frequently detected in asthma exacerbations. HRV‐A with high viral load led to severe asthma exacerbations.
Amino acids at positions 3, 168, and 169 are associated with the ability of Nef proteins from HIV‐1 CRF01_AE to downmodulate CD4
Authors: Kuang Wen‐Dong , Zhou Yan‐Heng , Zhong Ping , Zhang Chiyu , Wang Jian‐Hua
Published: May 2017

Several HIV‐1 subtypes are co‐circulating among various high‐risk groups in China, and an increasing prevalence of CRF01_AE was observed among MSM (men who have sex with men) within recent years. Patients infected with CRF01_AE may experience a more rapid disease progression than patients infected with non‐CRF01_AE; however, the underlying mechanisms remains elusive. HIV‐1 Nef is a multifunctional protein and plays critical roles in viral pathogenesis. Nef downregulates CD4 and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) to promote viral transmission and escape from the host immune response. In this study, we investigated the CD4 downmodulation activity of Nef proteins isolated from HIV‐1 CRF01_AE and analyzed a potential relationship of Nef's capacity to downregulate CD4 with disease progression. We found that the majority of these Nefs from HIV‐1 CRF01_AE efficiently downregulated CD4; Nefs with weaker CD4 downmodulation activity tended to be associated with higher CD4 levels and lower viral loads. Further elucidation revealed that amino acid residues at positions 3, 168, and 169 of CRF01_AE Nefs were associated with the capacity to downregulate CD4. Our data suggest that the capacity of Nef‐mediated CD4 downregulation is not the only determinant for controlling disease progression, and other host and viral factors should be considered to explain the rapid disease progression of patients infected with HIV‐1 CRF01_AE.
Mutations associated with drug resistance and prevalence of vaccine escape mutations in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection
Authors: dos Santos Maria Isabel Magalhães A. , Pacheco Sidelcina Rugieri , Stocker Andreas , Schinoni Maria Isabel , Paraná Raymundo , Reis Mitermayer G. , Silva Luciano K.
Published: May 2017

The Brazilian public health system (SUS) has provided antiviral drugs for chronic hepatitis B treatment for over 10 years, but a system for monitoring for drug‐related resistance mutations is not available. Determine the presence of HBV mutations associated with resistance to nucleos(t)ide analogs among 81 patients with chronic HBV infection in Salvador—BA—Brazil. HBV‐DNA was PCR amplified with primers deduced from the rt domain at the HBV P gene, the sequence extended 1032 bp (from amino acid 1 to 344—rt domain). Those sequences were submitted to the HBV drug resistance database to retrieve each mutation according to the genotype. HBV genotype A1 (85.2%) was the most prevalent, followed by genotype A2 (4.9%), F (6.2%), and C1, D2, and D4 (1.2% each). Six patients (7%) exhibited resistance mutations to LAM, ETV, and TDF: two with patterns L180M + M204V and four with other different patterns: L80I + L180M + M204I; L80V + L180M + M204V; M204I; A194T. All of these mutations were present in patients with genotype A (four A1 and two A2). In addition, four mutations in gene S (three cases with the sI195M mutation and one with the W196L mutation), were detected, corresponding to a rate of 6% of vaccine escape mutations. Althougth the small sample size, an association was found between the occurrence of HBV resistance mutations and HBeAg positivity, co‐infection with HIV and a history of treatment for HBV and/or HIV.
Epidemiology and genetic diversity of classic human astrovirus among hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis in Uruguay
Authors: Lopez Fernando , Lizasoain Andrés , Victoria Matías , Papalardo Cecilia , Castro Sebastian , Arreseigor Edit , López Patricia , Colina Rodney
Published: May 2017

Classic Human Astrovirus (Classic HAstV) are one of the most important causes of pediatric acute gastroenteritis (AGE), after rotaviruses and arguably caliciviruses. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular epidemiology of Classic HAstV from 175 clinical samples, being 153 stools and 22 vomits, collected from pediatric hospitalized patients with AGE in Salto city, Uruguay, from January 2011 to December 2012. Classic HAstV were detected and genotyped by using a qualitative Retro Transcription—Polimerase Chain Reaction (RT‐PCR) directed to the Open Reading Frame‐2 (ORF2) region C. Amplicons were sequenced and phylogenetic analyses were carried out in order to determine genotypes and lineages. Classic HAstV were detected in 18 out of 175 analyzed samples (10.3%) and 14 of them (78.0%) were successfully sequenced being 6 (42.8%) classified as HAstV‐1 (1a lineage), 4 (28.6%) as HAstV‐2 (2c lineage), and 4 (28.6%) as HAstV‐3 (3c lineage). A higher detection of Classic HAstV infections was observed in autumn for both years of surveillance, and the majority of the positive cases were observed in 2011. The group of children between 2 and 5 years old presented the higher percentage of infections. To our knowledge, the present study represents the first report of astrovirus from acute gastroenteritis cases in Uruguay, evidencing its role as a relevant etiologic agent in severe cases of this disease.
Large animal models of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Vink Robert
Published: May 2017

Animal models are essential to gain a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Rodent models of TBI have proven highly valuable with respect to the information they have provided over the years, particularly when it comes to the molecular understanding of injury mechanisms. However, there has been a failure to translate the successes in therapeutic treatment of TBI in rodents, which many believe may be related to their different brain anatomy compared with humans. Specifically, the rodent lissencephalic brain within its bony skull responds differently to injury than a human gyrencephalic brain, particularly from a biomechanical and physiological perspective. There is now far greater interest in developing more clinically relevant, large animal models of TBI so as to enhance the possibility of successful clinical translation. The current mini‐review highlights the differences between lissencephalic and gyrencephalic brains, emphasizing how these differences might impact studies of TBI. Thereafter follows a summary of the different large animal models, with a critical analysis of their strengths and weaknesses.
Coupled effects of salt and pressure on catalytic ability of Rhizopus chinensis lipase
Authors: Chen Gang , Wang Lu , Miao Ming , Jia Chengsheng , Feng Biao
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Both high pressure and environmental factors could influence the catalytic abilities of enzymes. This work investigated coupled effects of pressure and salts on Rhizopus chinensis lipase (RCL) to provide significant information for its further applications.

RESULTS

The maximum activity of RCL was observed under 200 MPa at 40 °C. The highest activity was achieved at concentrations of 0.06–0.1 mol L−1 for tested salts. The effect of monovalent cations on RCL activity followed the Hofmeister series (K+ > Na+ > Li+) at 0.1 MPa but the order of Na+ and K+ was changed under 200 MPa. Meanwhile, the effects of anions did not follow the Hofmeister series. KCl slightly improved the thermostability of RCL at moderate concentration. At 60 °C, LiCl only stabilised RCL at 0.1 mol L−1. The pre‐transition unfolding point was shifted from 4.5 to 3.5 mol L−1 with pressure increasing from 0.1 to 600 MPa. In addition, KCl could not change the lipase's extrinsic fluorescence evolution versus pressure.

CONCLUSION

Pressure and salts could improve catalytic ability and stability of RCL under appropriate conditions. The effect of high pressure on RCL was influenced by salts. Meanwhile salts cannot prevent high pressure‐induced damage to RCL. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Anti‐Müllerian hormone signaling is influenced by Follistatin 288, but not 14 other transforming growth factor beta superfamily regulators
Authors: Kawagishi Yui , Pankhurst Michael W. , Nakatani Yoshio , McLennan Ian S.
Published: May 2017

The hypothesis that, in contrast to other transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFβ) superfamily ligands, the dose–response curve of Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) is unmodulated was tested by examining whether known TGFB superfamily modulators affect AMH signaling, using a P19/BRE luciferase reporter assay. AMHC and AMHN,C activated the reporter with an EC50 of approximately 0.5 nM. Follistatins (FS) produced concentration‐dependent increases in AMHC‐ and AMHN,C‐initiated reporter activity, with FS288 being more potent than FS315; however, the maximum bioactivity of AMH was not altered by either follistatin. Thirteen other TGFβ regulators (Chordin, Chordin‐like 1, Chordin‐like 2, Differential screening‐selected gene aberrative in neuroblastoma [DAN], Decorin, Endoglin, Follistatin‐like 1, Follistatin‐like 3, Follistatin‐like 4, Noggin, α2 macroglobulin, TGFβ receptor 3, Von Willebrand factor C domain‐containing 2) had little or no effect. Surface plasmon resonance analysis showed no significant association between FS288 and AMHC, suggesting that FS288 indirectly regulates AMH signaling. Activin A, a direct target of FS288, did not itself induce reporter activity in P19 cells, but did prevent the FS288‐induced increase in AMH signaling. Hence, local concentrations of FS288 and Activin A may influence the response of some cell types to AMH.
Serum brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and interleukin‐6 response to high‐volume mechanically demanding exercise
Authors: Verbickas Vaidas , Kamandulis Sigitas , Snieckus Audrius , Venckunas Tomas , Baranauskiene Neringa , Brazaitis Marius , Satkunskiene Danguole , Unikauskas Alvydas , Skurvydas Albertas
Published: May 2017

Introduction: The aim of this study was to follow circulating brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels in response to severe muscle‐damaging exercise. Methods: Young healthy men (N = 10) performed a bout of mechanically demanding stretch–shortening cycle exercise consisting of 200 drop jumps. Voluntary and electrically induced knee extension torque, serum BDNF levels, and IL‐6 levels were measured before and for up to 7 days after exercise. Results: Muscle force decreased by up to 40% and did not recover by 24 hours after exercise. Serum BDNF was decreased 1 hour and 24 hours after exercise, whereas IL‐6 increased immediately and 1 hour after but recovered to baseline by 24 hours after exercise. IL‐6 and 100‐Hz stimulation torque were correlated (r = −0.64, P < 0.05) 24 hours after exercise. Discussion: In response to acute, severe muscle‐damaging exercise, serum BDNF levels decrease, whereas IL‐6 levels increase and are associated with peripheral fatigue. Muscle Nerve 57: E46–E51, 2018
Is the firing rate of motor units in different vastus medialis regions modulated similarly during isometric contractions?
Authors: Cabral Hélio V. , de Souza Leonardo M.L. , Mello Roger G.T. , Gallina Alessio , de Oliveira Liliam F. , Vieira Taian M.
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Previous evidence suggests the fibers of different motor units reside within distinct vastus medialis (VM) regions. It remains unknown whether the activity of these motor units may be modulated differently. Herein we assess the discharge rate of motor units detected proximodistally from the VM to address this issue. Methods: Surface electromyograms (EMGs) were recorded proximally and distally from the VM while 10 healthy subjects performed isometric contractions. Single motor units were decomposed from surface EMGs. The smoothed discharge rates of motor units identified from the same and from different VM regions were then cross‐correlated. Results: During low‐level contractions, the discharge rate varied more similarly for distal (cross‐correlation peak; interquartile interval: 0.27–0.40) and proximal (0.28–0.52) than for proximodistal pairs of VM motor units (0.20–0.33; P = 0.006). Discussion: The discharge rates of motor units from different proximodistal VM regions show less similarity in their variations than those of pairs of units either distally or proximally. Muscle Nerve 57: 279–286, 2018
Association between wrist ratio and carpal tunnel syndrome: Effect modification by body mass index
Authors: Thiese Matthew S. , Merryweather Andrew , Koric Alzina , Ott Ulrike , Wood Eric M. , Kapellusch Jay , Foster James , Garg Arun , Deckow‐Schaefer Gwen , Tomich Suzanna , Kendall Richard , Drury David L. , Wertsch Jacqueline , Hegmann Kurt T. ,   The Wistah Study Team
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Previous studies have reported higher wrist ratios (WR) related to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) but have not assessed effect modification by obesity and may have inadequately controlled for confounders.

Methods

Baseline data of a multicenter prospective cohort study were analyzed. CTS was defined by nerve conduction study (NCS) criteria and symptoms.

Results

Among the 1,206 participants, a square‐shaped wrist was associated with CTS after controlling for confounders (prevalence ratio = 2.27; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.33–3.86). Body mass index (BMI) was a strong effect modifier on the relationship between WR and both CTS and abnormal NCS results, with normal weight strata of rectangular versus square wrists = 8.18 (95% CI, 1.63–49.96) and 7.12 (95% CI, 2.19–23.16), respectively.

Discussion

A square wrist is significantly associated with CTS after controlling for confounders. Effect modification by high BMI masked the eightfold magnitude adjusted relationship seen between WR and CTS among normal weight participants. Muscle Nerve 56: 1047–1053, 2017
Approaches for finding cohesive subgroups in large‐scale social networks via maximum k‐plex detection
Authors: Miao Zhuqi , Balasundaram Balabhaskar
Published: May 2017

A k‐plex is a clique relaxation introduced in social network analysis to model cohesive social subgroups that allows for a limited number of nonadjacent vertices (strangers) inside the cohesive subgroup. Several exact algorithms and heuristic approaches to find a maximum‐size k‐plex in the graph have been developed recently for this NP‐hard problem. This article develops a greedy randomized adaptive search procedure (GRASP) for the maximum k‐plex problem. We offer a key improvement in the design of the construction procedure that alleviates a drawback observed in multiple past studies. In existing construction heuristics, k‐plexes found for smaller values of parameter k are sometimes not found for larger k even though they are feasible; instead inferior solutions are found. We identify the reasons behind this behavior and address these in our new construction procedure. We then show that an existing exact algorithm for solving this problem on power‐law graphs can be considerably enhanced by using GRASP. The overall approach is able to solve the problem to optimality on massive social networks, including some with several million vertices and edges. These are orders of magnitude larger than the largest real‐life social networks on which this problem has been solved to optimality in the current literature. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 69(4), 388–407 2017
Local proper generalized decomposition
Authors: Badías Alberto , González David , Alfaro Iciar , Chinesta Francisco , Cueto Elias
Published: May 2017

One of the main difficulties that a reduced‐order method could face is the poor separability of the solution. This problem is common to both a posteriori model order reduction (proper orthogonal decomposition, reduced basis) and a priori [proper generalized decomposition (PGD)] model order reduction. Early approaches to solve it include the construction of local reduced‐order models in the framework of POD. We present here an extension of local models in a PGD—and thus, a priori—context. Three different strategies are introduced to estimate the size of the different patches or regions in the solution manifold where PGD is applied. As will be noticed, no gluing or special technique is needed to deal with the resulting set of local reduced‐order models, in contrast to most proper orthogonal decomposition local approximations.

The resulting method can be seen as a sort of a priori manifold learning or nonlinear dimensionality reduction technique. Examples are shown that demonstrate pros and cons of each strategy for different problems.