bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entwurf, Geometrieoptimierung und Bemessung der Wildbrücke AM2 hergestellt mit PFHC
Authors: Kromoser Benjamin , Kollegger Johann
Published: February 2018

Im Rahmen des Forschungsprojekts „Freiformflächen aus Beton“ wurde von den Autoren das neue Betonschalenbauverfahren Pneumatic Forming of Hardened Concrete (PFHC) entwickelt. Der Ansatz zur Reduktion des Herstellungsaufwands für die Schalung von Betonschalen ist dabei, eine ursprünglich ebene, bewehrte Betonplatte aushärten zu lassen und diese nachträglich zu einer zweifach gekrümmten Betonschale zu verformen. Die ebene Platte wird dabei mithilfe eines darunter angeordneten Pneus angehoben und dieser Prozess wird zusätzlich durch das Vorspannen von am Umfang verlegten Spanngliedern unterstützt. Der nächste Entwicklungsschritt war nun die praktische Anwendung des Verfahrens. Im Auftrag der Österreichischen Bundesbahnen (ÖBB) werden zwei Betonschalen, eine Veranstaltungsüberdachung als Probeobjekt und die Wildbrücke AM2, eine Betonschalenbrücke über die zweigleisige Neubaustrecke der Koralmbahn im Süden Kärntens, errichtet. Betonschalen zeichnen sich durch ein günstiges Tragverhalten aus, wenn die Geometrie entsprechend den einwirkenden Lasten optimiert wird. Der aktuelle Beitrag beschreibt den Entwurf, die computergestützte Geometrieoptimierung und die Bemessung der innovativen Betonschalenbrücke unter Berücksichtigung der Randbedingungen, die für die Anwendbarkeit von PFHC notwendig sind.
The fluorescence quenching of Ru(bipy)32+: an application for the determination of bilirubin in biological samples
Authors: Wabaidur Saikh M. , Eldesoky Gaber E. , Alothman Zeid A.
Published: February 2018

A simple, sensitive and efficient fluorescence method has been established for the quantitative analysis of bilirubin. The fluorometric determination method was based on the kinetic quenching of ruthenium(II) fluorescence. The quenching effect may be due to the complexation reaction of bilirubin with ruthenium(II). Therefore, the effects of ruthenium concentrations and different surfactants have been studied. Under the optimized experimental parameters, the fluorescence intensity decreased proportionally with the bilirubin concentration and linearity was established in the range of 3.3 × 10−7to 3.0 × 10−4 M bilirubin. The detection limit calculated from the calibration graph was found to be 5.2 × 10−8 M. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of 10 consecutive measurements of 8.0 × 10−6 M bilirubin was 3.0%, while the recoveries of bilirubin in both human serum and urine samples were obtained in the range 94.0–99.5%. The interference study shows that the developed fluorescence based technique is fast, easy to carry out and shows negligible interference. The developed technique was successfully applied for the analysis of bilirubin in human urine and serum samples. All the experimental results and quality parameters confirmed the sensitivity and reproducibility of the proposed technique for bilirubin determination in human urine and serum samples.
Leucine supplementation attenuates macrophage foam‐cell formation: Studies in humans, mice, and cultured macrophages
Authors: Grajeda‐Iglesias Claudia , Rom Oren , Hamoud Shadi , Volkova Nina , Hayek Tony , Abu‐Saleh Niroz , Aviram Michael
Published: February 2018

Whereas atherogenicity of dietary lipids has been largely studied, relatively little is known about the possible contribution of dietary amino acids to macrophage foam‐cell formation, a hallmark of early atherogenesis. Recently, we showed that leucine has antiatherogenic properties in the macrophage model system. In this study, an in‐depth investigation of the role of leucine in macrophage lipid metabolism was conducted by supplementing humans, mice, or cultured macrophages with leucine. Macrophage incubation with serum obtained from healthy adults supplemented with leucine (5 g/d, 3 weeks) significantly decreased cellular cholesterol mass by inhibiting the rate of cholesterol biosynthesis and increasing cholesterol efflux from macrophages. Similarly, leucine supplementation to C57BL/6 mice (8 weeks) resulted in decreased cholesterol content in their harvested peritoneal macrophages (MPM) in relation with reduced cholesterol biosynthesis rate. Studies in J774A.1 murine macrophages revealed that leucine dose‐dependently decreased cellular cholesterol and triglyceride mass. Macrophages treated with leucine (0.2 mM) showed attenuated uptake of very low‐density lipoproteins and triglyceride biosynthesis rate, with a concurrent down‐regulation of diacylglycerol acyltransferase‐1, a key enzyme catalyzing triglyceride biosynthesis in macrophages. Similar effects were observed when macrophages were treated with α‐ketoisocaproate, a key leucine metabolite. Finally, both in vivo and in vitro leucine supplementation significantly improved macrophage mitochondrial respiration and ATP production. The above studies, conducted in human, mice, and cultured macrophages, highlight a protective role for leucine attenuating macrophage foam‐cell formation by mechanisms related to the metabolism of cholesterol, triglycerides, and energy production. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(3):245–262, 2018
Impact of abdominal aortic aneurysm screening on quality of life
Authors: Bath M F , Sidloff D , Saratzis A , Bown M J , Pathak R , Brooks M , Hayes P , Imray C , Quarmby J , Choksy S , Earnshaw J J , Shearman C P , Grocott E , Rix T , Chetter I , Tennant W , Libertiny G , Sykes T , Dayer M , Pike L , Pherwani A , Nice C , Browning N , McCollum C , Yusuf S , Gannon M , Barwell J , Baker S , Vallabhaneni S R , Davies A
Published: February 2018

Background

Screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is known to reduce AAA-related mortality; however, the psychological impact of population AAA screening is unclear. The aim was to assess the impact of AAA diagnosis on quality of life (QoL) using data from an established AAA screening programme.

Methods

Mental and physical QoL scores for men diagnosed with AAA through participation in the English and Welsh AAA screening programmes were compared with no-AAA controls. Participants were identified through the United Kingdom Aneurysm Growth Study (UKAGS), a nationwide prospective cohort study of men with an AAA of less than 55 mm diagnosed through voluntary participation in screening. The UKAGS participants completed QoL questionnaires at the time of screening and annually thereafter.

Results

A transient reduction in mental QoL scores was observed following the diagnosis of AAA, returning to baseline levels after 12 months. Physical QoL remained consistently lower in the AAA cohort. Participants thought about their AAA and the AAA growth progressively less 12 months after the initial screening diagnosis. AAA growth rate had no influence over QoL parameters.

Discussion

This study suggests that screening for AAA does reduce mental QoL; however, this effect is transient (less than 12 months). Men diagnosed with AAA have a consistently worse physical QoL compared with controls.
Quality of life after hepatic resection
Authors: Studer P , Horn T , Haynes A , Candinas D , Banz V M
Published: February 2018

Background

Long-term quality of life (QoL) after liver resection is becoming increasingly important, as improvements in operative methods and perioperative care have decreased morbidity and mortality rates. In this study, postoperative QoL after resection of benign or malignant liver tumours was evaluated.

Methods

In this single-centre study, QoL was evaluated prospectively using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and the liver-specific QLQ-LMC21 module before, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after open or laparoscopic liver surgery.

Results

Between June 2007 and January 2013, 188 patients (130 with malignant and 58 with benign tumours) requiring major liver resection were included. Global health status was no different between the two groups before and 1 month after liver resection. All patients showed an improvement in global health status at 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Patients with benign tumours had better global health status than those with malignant tumours at these time points (P < 0·001, P = 0·002 and P = 0·006 respectively). Patients with benign disease had better physical function scores (P = 0·011, P = 0·025 and P = 0·041) and lower fatigue scores (P = 0·001, P = 0·002 and P = 0·002) at 3, 6 and 12 months than those with malignant disease.

Conclusion

This study confirmed overall good QoL in patients undergoing liver resection for benign or malignant tumours, which improved after surgery. Benign diseases were associated with better short- and long-term QoL scores.
Quality of life and patient-reported outcomes
Authors: Church J
Published: February 2018

The lay view
Plasma phospholipid profiling of a mouse model of anxiety disorder by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Berkecz Róbert , Körmöczi Tímea , Tömösi Ferenc , Szegedi Viktor , Horváth János , Kovács Nóra , Janáky Tamás
Published: February 2018

Glycerophospholipids (PLs), as amphipathic small molecules and the main constituents of biological membranes, play an important role in several cellular processes, even though their accurate identification from complex biological samples remains a challenge. In this paper, we report a fast and comprehensive HILIC‐ESI‐MS method for the analysis of glycerophospholipid classes using high‐resolution mass spectrometry in negative mode. The final method enabled the quantitative analysis of 130 endogenous PL species in mouse plasma. The application of the method developed was to find differences of plasma PL composition in a mouse model of anxiety disorder. In the case of four PL classes and 35 PL species, significant differences were observed comparing low anxiety‐related behavior with high anxiety‐related behavior groups. The most characteristic trend was up‐regulation in both the PL classes and PL species, and decreases were only detected in two phosphatidylcholines among 35 species in mice having elevated anxiety.
The crossed frontal aslant tract: A possible pathway involved in the recovery of supplementary motor area syndrome
Authors: Baker Cordell M. , Burks Joshua D. , Briggs Robert G. , Smitherman Adam D. , Glenn Chad A. , Conner Andrew K. , Wu Dee H. , Sughrue Michael E.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Supplementary motor area (SMA) syndrome is a constellation of temporary symptoms that may occur following tumors of the frontal lobe. Affected patients develop akinesia and mutism but often recover within weeks to months. With our own case examples and with correlations to fiber tracking validated by gross anatomical dissection as ground truth, we describe a white matter pathway through which recovery may occur.

Methods

Diffusion spectrum imaging from the Human Connectome Project was used for tractography analysis. SMA outflow tracts were mapped in both hemispheres using a predefined seeding region. Postmortem dissections of 10 cadaveric brains were performed using a modified Klingler technique to verify the tractography results.

Results

Two cases were identified in our clinical records in which patients sustained permanent SMA syndrome after complete disconnection of the SMA and corpus callosum (CC). After investigating the postoperative anatomy of these resections, we identified a pattern of nonhomologous connections through the CC connecting the premotor area to the contralateral premotor and SMAs. The transcallosal fibers have projections from the previously described frontal aslant tract (FAT) and thus, we have termed this path the “crossed FAT.”

Conclusions

We hypothesize that this newly described tract may facilitate recovery from SMA syndrome by maintaining interhemispheric connectivity through the supplementary motor and premotor areas.
Loganic Acid Methyltransferase: Insights into the Specificity of Methylation on an Iridoid Glycoside
Authors: Petronikolou Nektaria , Hollatz Allison J. , Schuler Mary A. , Nair Satish K.
Published: February 2018

Loganin is an iridoid glycoside of interest as both an intermediate in the biosynthesis of indole alkaloids in plants and as a bioactive compound itself. Loganic acid methyltransferase catalyzes the methylation of a monoterpenoid glycoside precursor to produce loganin and demonstrates stereospecificity for the (6S,7R) substrate. We have biochemically characterized this biocatalyst and elucidated the basis for its strict substrate specificity. These studies could help facilitate the design of new classes of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids of pharmaceutical interest.
Construction of T‐Motif‐Based DNA Nanostructures through Enzymatic Reactions
Authors: Kageyama Ryo , Kawamata Ibuki , Tanabe Kaori , Suzuki Yuki , Nomura Shin‐ichiro M. , Murata Satoshi
Published: February 2018

The most common way to fabricate DNA nanostructures is to mix individually synthesized DNA oligomers in one pot. However, if DNA nanostructures could be produced through enzymatic reactions, they could be applied in various environments, including in vivo. Herein, an enzymatic method developed to construct a DNA nanostructure from a simple motif called a T‐motif is reported. A long, repeated structure was replicated from a circular template by rolling circle amplification and then cleaved into T‐motif segments by restriction enzymes. These motifs have been successfully assembled into a ladder‐like nanostructure without purification or controlled annealing. This approach is widely applicable to constructing a variety of DNA nanostructures through enzymatic reactions.
Supra‐annular structure assessment for self‐expanding transcatheter heart valve size selection in patients with bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Liu Xianbao , He Yuxin , Zhu Qifeng , Gao Feng , He Wei , Yu Lei , Zhou Qijing , Kong Minjian , Wang Jian'an
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To explore assessment of supra‐annular structure for self‐expanding transcatheter heart valve (THV) size selection in patients with bicuspid aortic stenosis (AS).

Background

Annulus‐based device selection from CT measurement is the standard sizing strategy for tricuspid aortic valve before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Because of supra‐annular deformity, device selection for bicuspid AS has not been systemically studied.

Methods

Twelve patients with bicuspid AS who underwent TAVR with self‐expanding THVs were included in this study. To assess supra‐annular structure, sequential balloon aortic valvuloplasty was performed in every 2 mm increments until waist sign occurred with less than mild regurgitation. Procedural results and 30 day follow‐up outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Seven patients (58.3%) with 18 mm; three patients (25%) with sequential 18 mm, 20 mm; and only two patients (16.7%) with sequential 18 mm, 20 mm, and 22 mm balloon sizing were performed, respectively. According to the results of supra‐annular assessment, a smaller device size (91.7%) was selected in all but one patient compared with annulus based sizing strategy, and the outcomes were satisfactory with 100% procedural success. No mortality and 1 minor stroke were observed at 30 d follow‐up. The percentage of NYHA III/IV decreased from 83.3% (9/12) to 16.7% (2/12). No new permanent pacemaker implantation and no moderate or severe paravalvular leakage were found.

Conclusions

A supra‐annular structure based sizing strategy is feasible for TAVR in patients with bicuspid AS.
A Capillary Flow Dynamics‐Based Sensing Modality for Direct Environmental Pathogen Monitoring
Authors: Klug Katherine E. , Reynolds Kelly A. , Yoon Jeong‐Yeol
Published: February 2018

Toward ultra‐simple and field‐ready biosensors, we demonstrate a novel assay transducer mechanism based on interfacial property changes and capillary flow dynamics in antibody‐conjugated submicron particle suspensions. Differential capillary flow is tunable, allowing pathogen quantification as a function of flow rate through a paper‐based microfluidic device. Flow models based on interfacial and rheological properties indicate a significant relationship between the flow rate and the interfacial effects caused by target‐particle aggregation. This mechanism is demonstrated for assays of Escherichia coli K12 in water samples and Zika virus (ZIKV) in blood serum. These assays achieved very low limits of detection compared with other demonstrated methods (1 log CFU/mL E. coli and 20 pg/mL ZIKV whole virus) with an operating time of 30 s, showing promise for environmental and health monitoring.
Separation and Recovery of a Hemicellulose‐Derived Sugar Produced from the Hydrolysis of Biomass by an Acidic Ionic Liquid
Authors: da Costa Lopes Andre M. , Łukasik Rafał M.
Published: February 2018

Biomass processing with ionic liquids (ILs) has been one of the most topical research areas in recent years. However, separation and recovery of biomass products and ILs are currently a challenge. Recovery of produced monosaccharides from an IL postreaction solution and the possibility to reuse the IL are strongly required to guarantee the sustainability of biomass processing. The present study demonstrates a novel approach that aims at separating a biomass hemicellulose‐derived product, namely, xylose, and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hydrogensulfate ([emim][HSO4]). High polarity of a postreaction system composed of xylose, IL, and water is one of the major hindrances in the separation performance. A proposed solution is fine‐tuning of the system polarity by the addition of moderately polar acetonitrile. To scrutinize the potential of xylose and IL separation, phase equilibria of a system constituted by [emim][HSO4], water, and acetonitrile were studied. Additionally, preparative chromatography experiments with alumina as a stationary phase were performed to determine the conditions required for efficient separation of the sugar and the IL by selective adsorption of xylose on alumina in detriment of IL. The amount and treatment of the stationary phase, eluent polarity, and amount of loaded sample were also scrutinized in this study. Treatment of alumina was considered as a necessary step to achieve recovery yields of 90.8 and 98.1 wt % for the IL and xylose, respectively, as separate fractions.
Improving the Performance of Layered Oxide Cathode Materials with Football‐Like Hierarchical Structure for Na‐Ion Batteries by Incorporating Mg2+ into Vacancies in Na‐Ion Layers
Authors: Li Zheng‐Yao , Wang Huibo , Chen Dongfeng , Sun Kai , Yang Wenyun , Yang Jinbo , Liu Xiangfeng , Han Songbai
Published: February 2018

The development of advanced cathode materials is still a great interest for sodium‐ion batteries. The feasible commercialization of sodium‐ion batteries relies on the design and exploitation of suitable electrode materials. This study offers a new insight into material design to exploit high‐performance P2‐type cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries. The incorporation of Mg2+ into intrinsic Na+ vacancies in Na‐ion layers can lead to a high‐performance P2‐type cathode material for sodium‐ion batteries. The materials prepared by the coprecipitation approach show a well‐defined morphology of secondary football‐like hierarchical structures. Neutron power diffraction and refinement results demonstrate that the incorporation of Mg2+ into intrinsic vacancies can enlarge the space for Na‐ion diffusion, which can increase the d‐spacing of the (0 0 2) peak and the size of slabs but reduce the chemical bond length to result in an enhanced rate capability and cycling stability. The incorporation of Mg2+ into available vacancies and a unique morphology make Na0.7Mg0.05Mn0.8Ni0.1Co0.1O2 a promising cathode, which can be charged and discharged at an ultra‐high current density of 2000 mA g−1 with an excellent specific capacity of 60 mAh g−1. This work provides a new insight into the design of electrode materials for sodium‐ion batteries.
WS2/Graphitic Carbon Nitride Heterojunction Nanosheets Decorated with CdS Quantum Dots for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zou Yajun , Shi Jian‐Wen , Ma Dandan , Fan Zhaoyang , Cheng Linhao , Sun Diankun , Wang Zeyan , Niu Chunming
Published: February 2018

Two‐dimensional/two‐dimensional (2D/2D) stacking heterostructures are highly desirable in fabricating efficient photocatalysts because face‐to‐face contact can provide a maximized interfacial region between the two semiconductors; this largely facilitates the migration of charge carriers. Herein, a WS2/graphitic carbon nitride (CN) 2D/2D nanosheet heterostructure decorated with CdS quantum dots (QDs) has been designed, for the first time. Optimized CdS/WS2/CN without another cocatalyst exhibits a significantly enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of 1174.5 μmol h−1 g−1 under visible‐light irradiation (λ>420 nm), which is nearly 67 times higher than that of the pure CN nanosheets. The improved photocatalytic activity can be primarily attributed to the highly efficient charge‐transfer pathways built among the three components, which effectively accelerate the separation and transfer of photogenerated electrons and holes, and thus, inhibit their recombination. Moreover, the extended light‐absorption range also contributes to excellent photocatalytic efficiency. In addition, the CdS/WS2/CN photocatalyst shows excellent stability and reusability without apparent decay in the photocatalytic H2 evolution within 4 cycles in 20 h. It is believed that this work may shed light on specifically designed 2D/2D nanosheet heterostructures for more efficient visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts.
Kinematic Modeling of Mechanocatalytic Depolymerization of α‐Cellulose and Beechwood
Authors: Kessler Martin , Woodward Robert T. , Wong Narumi , Rinaldi Roberto
Published: February 2018

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Dr. Roberto Rinaldi from the Department of Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London. The Cover image is an artistic representation of the collision model for the ball mill operation effecting the mechanocatalytic depolymerization of (ligno‐)cellulose resulting in water‐soluble oligosaccharides (and lignin oligomers). The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201702060.
Toward valid and reliable brain imaging results in eating disorders
Authors: Frank Guido K. W. , Favaro Angela , Marsh Rachel , Ehrlich Stefan , Lawson Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2018

Human brain imaging can help improve our understanding of mechanisms underlying brain function and how they drive behavior in health and disease. Such knowledge may eventually help us to devise better treatments for psychiatric disorders. However, the brain imaging literature in psychiatry and especially eating disorders has been inconsistent, and studies are often difficult to replicate. The extent or severity of extremes of eating and state of illness, which are often associated with differences in, for instance hormonal status, comorbidity, and medication use, commonly differ between studies and likely add to variation across study results. Those effects are in addition to the well‐described problems arising from differences in task designs, data quality control procedures, image data preprocessing and analysis or statistical thresholds applied across studies. Which of those factors are most relevant to improve reproducibility is still a question for debate and further research. Here we propose guidelines for brain imaging research in eating disorders to acquire valid results that are more reliable and clinically useful.
Regeneration recruitment and survival in an Asian tropical rain forest: implications for sustainable management
Authors: Ashton Mark S. , Hooper Elaine R. , Singhakumara Balangoda , Ediriweera Sisira
Published: February 2018

Few studies have been published that focus on monitoring and investigating the long‐term patterns of recruitment and survival of seedlings in the understories of tropical forests. Studies for mixed dipterocarp forest, the dominant tropical forest type for South and Southeast Asia, demonstrate seedlings in the existing forest understory (advance regeneration) play the most important role in forming a new forest after disturbance (e.g., logging, windstorms). Our study monitors the regeneration dynamic across a topographic gradient (ridge, mid‐slope, and valley) of the understory for a mixed dipterocarp forest in the Sinharaja MAB reserve in southwest Sri Lanka. We recorded seedling recruitment, growth, and mortality by species in replicated plots on multiple forest understory sites over a ten‐year period. Seedling density ranged from 26 to 31 m2 with all of it categorized as advance regeneration of canopy tree species. Results show differences in seedling density per species across the topography and over time, with differences driven by changes in species composition from valley to ridge and in recruitment periodicity potentially related to supra‐annual variations in climate. Seedling mortality was higher on ridges than valley and mid‐slopes; and disproportionately higher seedling mortality occurs of relatively shade‐intolerant late‐successional trees species (70% mortality after 8 yr) compared with their more shade‐tolerant associates (30% mortality after 8 yr). Our results contradict current selective logging prescriptions for tropical forests that comprise a single cutting cycle and minimum diameter felling for all commercial timber trees. Such harvests give no consideration to timing and manipulation of the forest canopy to favor release of advance regeneration. We recommend careful timing of timber harvests to occur in synchrony to the periodicity of seedling recruitment and silvicultural treatments that both insures their release and that accommodates to differences in seedling composition and density across topography.
Variations in subclinical left ventricular dysfunction, functional capacity, and clinical outcomes in different heart failure aetiologies
Authors: Wang Ying , Yang Hong , Nolan Mark , Pathan Faraz , Negishi Kazuaki , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: February 2018

Aims

Patients with heart failure (HF) risk factors are described as being in Stage A of this condition (SAHF). Management is directed towards prevention of HF progression, but to date, no evidence has been described to align the intensity of this intervention to HF risk. We sought to what extent SAHF of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other HF risks showed differences in subclinical left ventricular function, exercise capacity, and prognosis.

Methods and results

We recruited 551 elder asymptomatic SAHF patients (age 71 ± 5 years, 49% men, 290 T2DM) with at least one risk factor from a community‐based population with preserved ejection fraction. All underwent a comprehensive echocardiogram including global longitudinal strain (GLS) and a 6 min walk test and were followed for 2 years. The primary endpoints were new‐onset HF and all‐cause mortality. The T2DM group was associated with reduced 6 min walk test distance (451 ± 111 vs. 493 ± 87 m, P < 0.001), worse diastolic function (E/e′ 9.2 ± 2.7 vs. 8.7 ± 2.4, P = 0.028), and impaired GLS (−17.7 ± 2.6% vs. −19.0 ± 2.6%, P < 0.001). Over a median follow‐up of 1.6 years, 49 T2DM‐SAHF and 27 other‐SAHF met the primary endpoint. T2DM‐SAHF had significantly worse outcome than other‐SAHF (P = 0.021). In Cox models, obesity [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.46; P = 0.007], atrial fibrillation (HR = 2.39; P = 0.028), 6 min walk distance (HR = 0.99; P = 0.034), and GLS (HR = 1.14; P = 0.033) were independently associated with the primary endpoint in T2DM‐SAHF, independent of age and glycaemic control.

Conclusions

The T2DM‐SAHF has worse subclinical left ventricular function, exercise capacity, and prognosis than other‐SAHF. Impaired GLS, atrial fibrillation, exercise capacity, and obesity are associated with a worse prognosis in T2DM‐SAHF but not in other‐SAHF.
A case of cardiac sarcoidosis mimicking cardiac amyloidosis on cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Takemura Kazunori , Nakamura Ryuta , Shimazu Kazuhito , Sugimoto Youichiro , Takase Tetsuro , Ryogo Minamimoto , Hiroe Michiaki
Published: February 2018

A 52‐year‐old male visited our hospital with abnormal electrocardiogram and exertional fatigue. The electrocardiogram showed first‐degree atrioventricular block, complete right bundle branch block, and inverted T waves in Leads II, III, aVF, V3, and V4. Echocardiography showed biventricular wall thickening involving granular sparkling of the interventricular septum. Late gadolinium enhancement on cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) was found at the circumferential right ventricular wall and patchy regions of the left ventricle. Although these findings strongly suggested cardiac amyloidosis, he was finally diagnosed with systemic sarcoidosis due to the following. First, endomyocardial biopsy revealed non‐caseating epithelioid granuloma with giant cells. Second, 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography showed uptake in bilateral hilar lymph nodes, para‐aortic lymph nodes, and the biventricular wall of the heart. Although echocardiography and CMR are very useful tools for diagnosis of cardiomyopathies, their specificity and accuracy need to be considered.
Quartz‐crystal Microbalance Measurements of CD19 Antibody Immobilization on Gold Surface and Capturing B Lymphoblast Cells: Effect of Surface Functionalization
Authors: Icoz Kutay , Soylu Mehmet Cagri , Canikara Zeynep , Unal Ekrem
Published: February 2018

We have investigated different surface functionalization methods to immobilize CD19 antibody on gold surface to capture B lymphoblast cells associated with the acute lymphoblastic leukemia disease. Quartz Crystal Microbalance measurements were performed to analyze the binding kinetics of each layer and determine the optimum method, which results in higher cell capture rates. The random orientation of antibody and oriented antibody through protein G was investigated and protein G presence resulted in 15,2 Hz frequency shift for 104 cells/mL. The 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) and 11‐Mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) coatings of gold surface together with 4‐(N‐Maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane‐1‐carboxylic acid 3‐sulfo‐N‐hydroxysuccinimide ester sodium salt (Sulfo‐SMCC) and N‐Ethyl‐N’‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC)/N‐hydroxysulfosuccinimide (NHS) linker layers were tested on QCM for protein G and antibody binding. The results indicate that MUA, EDC/NHS, protein G, antibody CD19 is the optimum surface modification among the tested combinations. By using the optimum surface functionalization method, minimum 103 cell per mL was measured as 1.9 Hz frequency shift.
Microscale isolation of native forms of lysozyme from chicken egg white by gel isoelectric focusing
Authors: Shimazaki Youji , Ochi Yoshiko , Fujimura Kennosuke
Published: February 2018

To separate and extract the native states of lysozyme from chicken egg white, a hybrid method for the mobilization of proteins after non‐denaturing gel isoelectric focusing (IEF) combined with detection of lysozyme activity was developed. When the proteins in the chicken egg white were first separated using non‐denaturing gel IEF, a lysozyme was obtained at the top of the gel column at the cathode end of the IEF. And, when the IEF‐separated proteins of the egg white were mobilized by replacing the cathodic sodium hydroxide solution with phosphoric acid solution, an additional active state of the lysozyme that could be bound to proteins, such as ovotransferrin, was extracted from the solution. Furthermore, it was shown that the addition of lysozyme, obtained via IEF, to pure ovotransferrin generated a complex manifesting lysozyme activity, clearly indicating a successful reconstruction of the lysozyme‐ovotransferrin complex in vitro. Therefore, the obtained results demonstrated that the native states of lysozymes, such as lysozyme and the lysozyme‐ovotransferrin complex, can be effectively separated and extracted using non‐denaturing gel IEF. Thus, this method can be applied to separate and extract different charge states of native proteins that retain their biological activities.
Accumulation of Heavy Metals from Battery Waste in Topsoil, Surface Water, and Garden Grown Maize at Omilende Area, Olodo, Nigeria
Authors: Afolayan Adedotun Onoyinka
Published: February 2018

Land pollution is a threat to sustainable agricultural development and food security in developing countries. Consumption of farm products from contaminated areas can generate health hazards to the diverse consumers along the food chain through the different pollutants in the products. This study is designed to determine the accumulation of Pb, Cd, and Fe in topsoil, surface water, and maize leaf, stem, grains, and root, cultivated in a garden nearby Ori‐Ile battery waste dumpsite, Omilende Area, Olodo, Nigeria. Soil samples, garden maize parts, and surface water samples are collected from the study area using standard procedures. Corresponding reference samples are collected from Moor Plantation, Ibadan. All collected samples are analysed for Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations. Mean Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations in topsoil are found to be significantly higher than 157.0 ± 39.8, 2.2 ± 1.2, and 976.3 ± 353.9 mg kg−1, respectively, which are obtained from reference soil and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency limits (Pb: 164 mg kg−1 and Cd: 50 mg kg−1). The soil contamination factor values obtained are greater than 6, indicating severe pollution. Downstream has the highest Pb, Cd, and Fe concentrations. In maize parts, the root has the highest concentration of Pb (40.95 ± 1.98 mg L−1) and Cd (2.84 ± 0.19 mg L−1), which are significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) than those from the reference site. A high concentration of heavy metals found in topsoil further bio‐accumulates in maize parts. Consequently, this garden maize is unfit for consumption.
Endoscope‐assisted conservative resection and reconstruction in recurrent subglottic carcinoma
Authors: Joseph Shawn T. , Tharayil Jose , Mihir Mohan T. , Naveen B.S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Very few cases of conservative laryngectomy in recurrent carcinoma of subglottis postradiotherapy have been reported. Technical aspects of conservative resection and reconstruction in subglottic carcinoma have not been well described.

Methods

Herein, we present a case of recurrent carcinoma of subglottis for which conservative resection with adequate margins was done with endoscope assistance and defect reconstructed by buccal mucosa, conchal cartilage, and temporoparietal free flap. The technique of resection, reconstruction, complications, postoperative outcome, and our suggestions are described.

Results

The lesion could be removed with wide margins. Reconstruction could preserve the voice, and deglutition was unaffected. There was no donor site‐related complication. Complications were a result of the choice of the stent, which included infection and difficulty in removal.

Conclusion

Selected cases of recurrent carcinoma of the subglottis can be managed by conservative resection with adequate margins and appropriate reconstruction with good functional outcomes.
Ebselen inhibits the activity of acetylcholinesterase globular isoform G4 in vitro and attenuates scopolamine‐induced amnesia in mice
Authors: Martini Franciele , Pesarico Ana P. , Brüning César A. , Zeni Gilson , Nogueira Cristina W.
Published: February 2018

There is a well‐known relationship between the cholinergic system and learning, memory, and other common cognitive processes. The process for researching and developing new drugs has lead researchers to repurpose older ones. This study investigated the effects of ebselen on the activity of acethylcholinesterase (AChE) isoforms in vitro and in an amnesia model induced by scopolamine in Swiss mice. In vitro, ebselen at concentrations equal or higher than 10 μM inhibited the activity of cortical and hippocampal G4/AChE, but not G1/AChE isoform. Treatment of mice with ebselen (50 mg/kg, i.p.) was effective against impairment of spatial recognition memory in both Y‐maze and novel object recognition tests induced by scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Ebselen (50 mg/kg) inhibited hippocampal AChE activity in mice. The present study demonstrates that ebselen inhibited the G4/AChE isoform in vitro and elicited an anti‐amnesic effect in a mouse model induced by scopolamine. These findings reveal ebselen as a potential compound in terms of opening up valid therapeutic avenues for the treatment of memory impairment diseases.
Web‐4D‐QSAR: A web‐based application to generate 4D‐QSAR descriptors
Authors: Ataide Martins João Paulo , Rougeth de Oliveira Marco Antônio , Oliveira de Queiroz Mário Sérgio
Published: February 2018

A web‐based application is developed to generate 4D‐QSAR descriptors using the LQTA‐QSAR methodology, based on molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories and topology information retrieved from the GROMACS package. The LQTAGrid module calculates the intermolecular interaction energies at each grid point, considering probes and all aligned conformations resulting from MD simulations. These interaction energies are the independent variables or descriptors employed in a QSAR analysis. A friendly front end web interface, built using the Django framework and Python programming language, integrates all steps of the LQTA‐QSAR methodology in a way that is transparent to the user, and in the backend, GROMACS and LQTAGrid are executed to generate 4D‐QSAR descriptors to be used later in the process of QSAR model building. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of cannabinoids in palliative medicine
Authors: Mücke Martin , Weier Megan , Carter Christopher , Copeland Jan , Degenhardt Louisa , Cuhls Henning , Radbruch Lukas , Häuser Winfried , Conrad Rupert
Published: February 2018

We provide a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of cannabinoids in palliative medicine. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and http://clinicaltrials.gov, and a selection of cancer journals were searched up until 15th of March 2017. Of the 108 screened studies, nine studies with a total of 1561 participants were included. Overall, the nine studies were at moderate risk of bias. The quality of evidence comparing cannabinoids with placebo was rated according to Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation as low or very low because of indirectness, imprecision, and potential reporting bias. In cancer patients, there were no significant differences between cannabinoids and placebo for improving caloric intake (standardized mean differences [SMD]: 0.2 95% confidence interval [CI]: [−0.66, 1.06] P = 0.65), appetite (SMD: 0.81 95% CI: [−1.14, 2.75]; P = 0.42), nausea/vomiting (SMD: 0.21 [−0.10, 0.52] P = 0.19), >30% decrease in pain (risk differences [RD]: 0.07 95% CI: [−0.01, 0.16]; P = 0.07), or sleep problems (SMD: −0.09 95% CI: [−0.62, 0.43] P = 0.72). In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients, cannabinoids were superior to placebo for weight gain (SMD: 0.57 [0.22; 0.92]; P = 0.001) and appetite (SMD: 0.57 [0.11; 1.03]; P = 0.02) but not for nausea/vomiting (SMD: 0.20 [−0.15, 0.54]; P = 0.26). Regarding side effects in cancer patients, there were no differences between cannabinoids and placebo in symptoms of dizziness (RD: 0.03 [−0.02; 0.08]; P = 0.23) or poor mental health (RD: −0.01 [−0.04; 0.03]; P = 0.69), whereas in HIV patients, there was a significant increase in mental health symptoms (RD: 0.05 [0.00; 0.11]; P = 0.05). Tolerability (measured by the number of withdrawals because of adverse events) did not differ significantly in cancer (RD: 1.15 [0.80; 1.66]; P = 0.46) and HIV patients (RD: 1.87 [0.60; 5.84]; P = 0.28). Safety did not differ in cancer (RD: 1.12 [0.86; 1.46]; P = 0.39) or HIV patients (4.51 [0.54; 37.45]; P = 0.32) although there was large uncertainty about the latter reflected in the width of the CI. In one moderate quality study of 469 cancer patients with cancer‐associated anorexia, megestrol was superior to cannabinoids in improving appetite, producing >10% weight gain and tolerability. In another study comparing megestrol to dronabinol in HIV patients, megestrol treatment led to higher weight gain without any differences in tolerability and safety. We found no convincing, unbiased, high quality evidence suggesting that cannabinoids are of value for anorexia or cachexia in cancer or HIV patients.
Low FODMAP diet in Egyptian patients with Crohn's disease in remission phase with functional gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Elhusseiny Maha H , Amine Ali K , Salem Osama E , Tayel Dalia I , Elsayed Eman A
Published: February 2018

Background and Aim

Despite being in remission, functional gastrointestinal disease (FGID) in Crohn's disease (CD) patients can reduce their quality of life. The Egyptian daily diet contains a high amount of FODMAP (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, And Polyols). As the low FODMAP diet has been proven to be effective in irritable bowel syndrome worldwide, it was reasonable to take a step further and begin to study the effect of low FODMAP in Egyptian CD patients with FGID. The outcomes were assessed in terms of improvement in symptoms and hence the quality of life, and the factors that led to this improvement were also recorded.

Methods

In total, 100 CD patients with FGID in the remission stage who were already on a low‐fiber diet (± lactose‐free diet) were selected to follow the low FODMAP diet. A structured interview was performed after 3 months with a number of scored‐scale questionnaires comparing symptoms before and after the diet and the impact on quality of life. Evaluation of the adherence, satisfaction, palatability, and affordability of the diet was performed. Different demographic data were also evaluated in correspondence with improvements in the quality of life.

Results

The mean score of FGID improvement was 38.45 ± 21.56%. The quality of life was significantly improved; 90% of female patientsversus49.4% males had a better quality of life. The households (not working) as well as those with morning jobs (6 hours) reported an increase in quality of life. Although the Egyptian low FODMAP diet was expensive (in terms of gluten‐free wheat), 67% were adherent to it (18.16 ± 6.85).

Conclusion

As a first step in Egypt, the low FODMAP diet was effective in improving the quality of life of CD patients with FGID.
ARTICLES
Authors: Angeltveit Vigleik , McKay Brendan D.
Published: February 2018

We improve the upper bound on the Ramsey number R(5, 5) from to . We also complete the catalog of extremal graphs for R(4, 5).
Design and Synthesis of Novel 1,2,3‐triazolyl‐pyrimidinone Hybrids as Potential Anti‐HIV‐1 NNRT Inhibitors
Authors: Kasralikar Hanmant M. , Jadhavar Suresh C. , Bhansali Sujit G. , Patwari Shivaji B. , Bhusare Sudhakar R.
Published: February 2018

A novel series of 2‐((1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)methylthio)‐5‐chloro‐6‐phenylpyrimidin‐4 (3H)‐one derivatives has been synthesized and studied their molecular docking as well as vitro assay as an anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. The synthetic approach was started from the reaction of aldehydes, ethylchloroacetate, and thiourea to give the 6‐aryl‐5‐chloro‐2‐thiouracils derivatives. Then, reaction of the later compounds with propargyl bromide followed by azide cycloaddition reaction (click reaction) led to the formation of the title compounds in good yields. The obtained derivatives were studied as anti‐human immunodeficiency virus type‐1 non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. It was found that these compounds might have potent reverse transcriptase inhibition activity.
Enaminone Incorporating a Dibromobenzofuran Moiety: Versatile Precursor for Novel Azines and Azolotriazines
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Mekky Ahmed E. M.
Published: February 2018

2‐Acetyl‐5,7‐dibromobenzo[b]furan (1) reacted with dimethylformamide‐dimethylacetal to give the corresponding (E)‐enaminone 3 which coupled with aromatic diazonium chloride to afford the corresponding key intermediates 3‐oxo‐2‐(2‐arylhydrazono)propanals 6a,b. Compounds 6a,b were used to prepare novel 3‐imino‐2,3‐dihydropyridazines 10a,b and 6‐phenylazopyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4(1H)‐one derivatives 15a,b through their reaction with acetonitrile derivatives 8a,b and 6‐aminopyrimidin‐4(1H)‐one 13, respectively. On the other hand, the enaminone 3 was taken as a synthetic precursor to synthesize novel pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,2,4]triazines 21a–c, [1,2,4]triazolo[3,4‐c][1,2,4]triazines 25 and benzimidazo[2,1‐c][1,2,4]triazine 29 containing 5,7‐dibromobenzofuran‐2‐oyl moiety via its coupling with the appropriate diazonium salts of a variety of hetero‐armomatic amines in a facile one‐step route.
An Efficient Synthesis of 1′,7′,8′,9′‐Tetrahydrospiro[indoline‐3,4′‐pyrazolo[3,4‐b]quinoline]‐2,5′(6′H)‐dione Derivatives in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Zhu Guangzhou , Gao Lingli , Yu Qiuyu , Qin Yaqi , Xi Junhua , Rong Liangce
Published: February 2018

An efficient and green reactions of isatins, 3‐amine‐1H‐pyrazole (5‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐amine) and 1,3‐diketone in aqueous medium for the synthesis of novel 1′,7′,8′,9′‐tetrahydrospiro[indoline‐3,4′‐pyrazolo[3,4‐b]quinoline]‐2,5′(6′H)‐dione derivatives were reported in this research. The advantages of this reaction are simple operation, mild‐reaction conditions, wide scope substrate, high yields, and friendly environment. The products were confirmed by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS.
The Influence of Condensed Cycle on Regiochemistry of Electrophilic Heterocyclization of 3‐Alkenyl‐2‐Thioxopyrimidin‐4‐One by p‐Alkoxyphenyltellurium Trichloride
Authors: Kut Mykola , Onysko Mikhajlo , Lendel Vasil
Published: February 2018

Electrophilic heterocyclization of 5‐alkenyl‐1‐methyl‐6‐thioxopyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidin‐4‐ones and 3‐alkenyl‐2‐thioxoquinazoline‐4‐ones under the action of p‐alkoxyphenyltellurium trichloride leads to annulation of thiazoline cycle with formation of 7‐[(p‐alkoxyphenyl)telluromethyl]‐1‐methyl‐6,7‐dihydropyrazolo[3,4‐d][1,3]thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4(1H)‐ones hydrochlorides and 2‐(p‐alkoxyphenyl)dichlorotelluromethyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐5H‐[1,3]thiazolo[2,3‐b]quinazolin‐5‐ones hydrochlorides. Reduction of salts by the action of excess of sodium sulfite leads to formation of arylhetaryl telluride.
Contrast in monsoon precipitation over oceanic region of north Bay of Bengal and east equatorial Indian Ocean
Authors: Pokhrel Samir , Hazra Anupam , Saha Subodh Kumar , Chaudhari Hemantkumar S. , Metya Abirlal , Ghude Sachin D. , Konwar Mahen
Published: February 2018

This study explores the possible causes of rainfall distribution over the two major oceanic raining regions of the north Bay of Bengal (nBoB) and the east equatorial Indian Ocean (eEIO). Despite 17% difference in vertically averaged humidity, there is almost 34% difference in mean rainfall over these two regions. The climatological seasonal [June–September (JJAS)] mean (standard deviation) rainfall over nBoB region is always higher (lower) than that over the eEIO region in all the independent data used. The eEIO region has a much larger percentage of low stratiform and convective rainfall (<5 mm day−1) distribution as compared to nBoB, which is totally opposite in case of moderate stratiform and convective rainfall (>5 mm day−1) distribution. This is further substantiated by a much lower values of outgoing long‐wave radiation (OLR) in nBoB (<200 W m−2) as compared to the eEIO (217 W m−2) region. Mean Hadley circulation along with relative vorticity/divergence profile supports more intense (gentle) updrafts over nBoB (eEIO) region. Latent heat (LH) is almost three times at the upper level (∼8 km) in case of nBoB as compared to eEIO; however, at the lower level (∼3 km) LH is marginally higher over eEIO region. Microphysical variables, namely cloud ice optical thickness and cloud ice water path, are in much larger quantities over nBoB as compared to eEIO. Furthermore, the cold (warm) rain processes dominate among other microphysical processes over nBoB (eEIO) region. Thus, the interplay among large‐scale dynamics, thermodynamics and microphysics is very crucial in the formation of deep clouds and convective rain over the nBoB region and similarly shallow clouds and stratiform rain over the eEIO region. This study will be very useful to guide present‐day coupled models for proper representation of different rain components over the nBoB and eEIO region.