bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Observation of Growth and Self‐assembly of Pt Nanoclusters in Water with the Aid of a Triblock Polymer Using in situ Liquid Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Chang , Kong Xing , Cao Hongliang , Wang Hulian , Zhou Xiaoqin
Published: June 2017

Triblock copolymers are playing important roles in nanomaterial synthesis, and the nanomaterial forming mechanisms need to be studied in detail. In situ liquid cell transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a powerful tool for real time observation of the dynamic growth behavior of nanomaterials in liquid with high resolution, and could be used for the above task. Here we report the observation of the growth and self‐assembly of Pt nanoclusters with the aid of an ethylene oxide‐propylene oxide‐ethylene oxide triblock copolymer (PEO‐PPO‐PEO) F127 using in situ liquid cell TEM, with the nanocluster growth and formation procedures being tracked. Nano objects were seen to appear, drift and rotate with time, and then form into certain shaped nanoclusters under the electron beam irradiation. Further interestingly, in the thicker liquid layer region, the nanoclusters appeared to be fluffy, with average size keeping increase with time, while in the thinner region, the clusters were thinner, and got densified with time. The difference in precursor availability due to liquid layer thickness and charging effects is attributed to such a phenomenon.
Chemoselective Synthesis of Novel Heterocyclic [3.3.3]Propellane Derivatives via a One‐pot Three‐component Reaction
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Hongzhi , Wen Ren , Li Jie , Zhu Songlei
Published: June 2017

A highly chemoselective method for the synthesis of heterocyclic [3.3.3]propellane derivatives was developed via sequential three‐component reactions of acenaphthenequinone, malononitrile/cyanoacetate and a variety of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds under mild conditions in ethanol. A plausible mechanism for this type of reaction was proposed. The value of this method was highlighted by its high selectivity, simple procedures, and good yields.
Facile Synthesis of Spirooxindole‐Cyclohexenes via Phosphine‐Catalyzed [4 + 2] Annulation of α‐Substituted Allenoates
Authors: Chen Rongshun , Fan Xia , Xu Zhaozhong , He Zhengjie
Published: June 2017

A phosphine‐catalyzed [4 + 2] annulation of α‐substituted allenoate with exocyclic alkene moiety of oxindoles or indan‐1,3‐diones has been developed. Thus, under the catalysis of PPh3 (20 mol%), a series of spirooxindole‐ or spiroindan‐1,3‐dione‐cyclohexenes have been obtained in moderate to excellent yields and regioselectivity from the annulations of α‐methyl allenoates with 3‐methyleneoxindoles or 2‐methyleneindan‐1,3‐diones. This method offers an easy access to structurally novel spirocyclohexenes.
Phenothiazine‐Sensitized Solar Cells: Effect of Number of Cyanocinnamic Acid Anchoring Groups on Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Yellappa Shivaraj , Webre Whitney A. , Gobeze Habtom B. , Middleton Anna , KC Chandra B. , D'Souza Francis
Published: June 2017

Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were built to probe the effect of the number of cyanocinnamic acid anchoring groups on the ring periphery of phenothiazine dyes. Two kinds of dyes, one with substitution on the N‐terminal (1) and the other at the C‐3 aromatic ring (2–5), have been synthesized for this purpose. Additionally, the number of cyanocinnamic acid groups have been increased to two in the case of compound 6. In the case of compounds 2–6, the N terminus was functionalized to carry methyl, 2‐hydroxyethane, tris(ethylene oxide), or hexyl groups. Evidence for charge injection from the excited singlet state of phenothiazine to TiO2 was secured from femtosecond transient absorption spectral studies, wherein an ultrafast charge injection process (kCI≈1010–1011 s−1) was witnessed. The DSSCs were built on nanocrystalline TiO2 by using the traditional two‐electrode method. Cell performance was better for carbon‐functionalized phenothiazine dyes compared with that of nitrogen‐functionalized dyes. The second cyanocinnamic group also increased the efficiency to 5.8 %.
Influence of Sulfuric Acid on the Performance of Ruthenium‐based Catalysts in the Liquid‐Phase Hydrogenation of Levulinic Acid to γ‐Valerolactone
Authors: Ftouni Jamal , Genuino Homer C. , Muñoz‐Murillo Ara , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: June 2017

The presence of biogenic or process‐derived impurities poses a major problem on the efficient catalytic hydrogenation of biomass‐derived levulinic acid to γ‐valerolactone; hence, studies on their influence on catalyst stability are now required. Herein, the influence of sulfuric acid as feed impurity on the performance of Ru‐based heterogeneous catalysts, including Ru/ZrO2 and mono‐ and bimetallic Ru‐on‐carbon catalysts in dioxane as solvent, was investigated. The carbon‐supported Ru catalysts proved to be very sensitive to minor amounts of sulfuric acid. In stark contrast, Ru/ZrO2 showed a remarkable stability in the presence of the same impurity, which is attributed to the sulfate‐ion adsorption capacity of the support. Preferential sulfate adsorption onto the surface of ZrO2 effectively protects the Ru active phase from deactivation by sulfur poisoning. A simple catalyst regeneration strategy was effective in removing adsorbed impurities, allowing efficient catalyst recycling.
Stable Organic Radicals in Lignin: A Review
Authors: Patil Shradha V. , Argyropoulos Dimitris S.
Published: June 2017

Lignin and the quest for the origin of stable organic radicals in it have seen numerous developments. Although there have been various speculations over the years on the formation of these stable radicals, researchers have not been able to arrive at a solid, unequivocal hypothesis that applies to all treatments and types of lignin. The extreme complexity of lignin and its highly aromatic, cross‐linked, branched, and rigid structure has made such efforts rather cumbersome. Since the early 1950s, researchers in this field have dedicated their efforts to the establishment of methods for the detection and determination of spin content, theoretical simulations, and reactions on model compounds and spin‐trapping studies. Although a significant amount of published research is available on lignin or its model compounds and the reactive intermediates involved during various chemical treatments (pulping, bleaching, extractions, chemical modifications, etc.), the literature provides a limited view on the origin, nature, and stability of such radicals. Consequently, this review is focused on examining the origin of such species in lignin, factors affecting their presence, reactions involved in their formation, and methods for their detection.
Train RAs to provide students with a better experience
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: June 2017

Some disability services offices offer training to faculty members about academic accommodations and students' concerns. Training efforts should also include residential life staff, who work with students for a major portion of their day and who are in a different dynamic with students, since they themselves are students.
Intramolecularly Coordinated 2‐Iminomethylphenyltellurium Compounds
Authors: Hejda Martin , Lork Enno , Mebs Stefan , Dostál Libor , Beckmann Jens
Published: June 2017

Procedures for the synthesis of 2‐(tBuNCH)C6H4Te(S2CNEt2) (1a), 2‐(2′,6′‐iPr2C6H3NCH)C6H4Te(S2CNEt2) (1b), [2‐(tBuNCH)C6H4]2Te (2a), 2‐(tBuNCH)C6H4TeCl (3a), and 2‐(tBuNCH)C6H4TeCl3 (4a) have been developed. Compounds 1a–4a possess 2‐iminomethylphenyl groups that provide intramolecular N donation to the Te atoms, which was investigated by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography. The Te–N bond lengths increase in the order 3a [2.203(2) Å] < 4a [2.286(1) Å] < 1b [2.337(2) Å] < 1a [2.407(2) Å] < 2a [2.688(2) Å]. The nature of these bonds, which span a wide range from weak to strongly dative, was computationally analyzed for 1a–4a by means of DFT calculations using real‐space bonding indicators derived from the atoms‐in‐molecules (AIM), electron localizability indicator (ELI‐D), and noncovalent interactions (NCI) indicator toolkits. The analysis of the electrostatic potentials (ESPs) of proper fragments revealed considerable σ‐hole bond contributions in 3 and 4.
Regulation of lipid accumulation in Schizochytrium sp. ATCC 20888 in response to different nitrogen sources
Authors: Jiang Xin , Zhang Jia , Zhao Jing , Gao Ziqing , Zhang Chunzhi , Chen Ming
Published: June 2017

Regulation of lipid accumulation in Schizochytrium sp. ATCC 20888 in response to different nitrogen sources was investigated in this study. Nitrogen sources had important effects on the cell growth, lipid accumulation, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) percentage in total fatty acids (TFAs). Compared with sole organic nitrogen source, the combination of yeast extract and monosodium glutamate (MSG) greatly enhanced the biomass, total lipids, and DHA percentage in TFAs, but inorganic nitrogen source addition decreased the biomass and total lipids. The results showed that lipids began to accumulate rapidly with the depletion of dissolved ammonia in broth, and the time required for nitrogen exhaustion was extended with increasing nitrogen source concentration. Furthermore, the analysis of isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH) and malic enzyme (ME) activities during fermentation process provided insight for the revelation of regulation mechanism of lipid accumulation in Schizochytrium sp. ATCC 20888 in response to nitrogen exhaustion in broth.

Practical applications: DHA, an essential nutrient for human health, is widely used in infant formula and functional foods. DHA production by Schizochytrium sp. has recently received extensive attention as the commercial source of DHA to substitute marine fish oil. Nitrogen sources in the cultivation of Schizochytrium sp. have important effects on the cell growth, lipid accumulation, and DHA percentage in TFAs. This study provides valuable guidance for nitrogen source selection for efficient DHA‐rich lipids production by Schizochytrium sp.

The combination of yeast extract and MSG enhances the biomass, lipid yield, and DHA percentage in TFAs, but inorganic nitrogen source addition decreases the biomass and lipid yield. The results in this study have important significance in understanding lipid accumulation regulation in Schizochytrium sp. in response to nitrogen sources and providing guidance for DHA‐rich lipid production enhancement.
The impact of natural disasters on energy consumption: An analysis of renewable and nonrenewable energy demand in the residential and industrial sectors
Authors: Doytch Nadia , Klein Yehuda L.
Published: June 2017

This study examines the impact of infrastructure‐damaging natural disasters (meteorological and geophysical disasters) on energy consumption differentiating by type of energy: residential versus industrial and nonrenewable versus renewable. We used a novel comprehensive unbalanced data set spanning 50 years (1961–2011) for up to 80 countries, which we group by level of development to reduce heterogeneity within the group. We applied an estimation method that takes into account the dynamics of the economic processes in the panel: the Blundell and Bond GMM estimator. For high‐income economies, which are also technologically the most advanced, we are able to demonstrate a positive impact on renewable energy use 5 years after the occurrence of a geophysical disaster. For low‐income economies, we observe positive effects on industrial energy consumption; for middle‐income countries, on residential energy consumption. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 37–45, 2018
Study of water desalination techniques and a review on active solar distillation methods
Authors: Manchanda Himanshu , Kumar Mahesh
Published: June 2017

Energy crisis and water born diseases caused by impure water are two major concerns of the present era. Various techniques have been used to make saline/brackish water potable. Filtration, precipitation, sterilization, chemical treatment, etc. are some processes that remove macro impurities from impure water. Distillation is thermal energy‐based process that effectively removes contaminants from impure water. Reverse osmosis is a membrane‐based technique widely used for the purification purposes. Electrodialysis, Ion‐exchange, and Freezing are some other processes used to get soft/distilled water for various commercial and domestic uses. Most of the desalination techniques utilize energy from the nonrenewable energy sources. Solar distillation is one of the solutions of getting potable water using solar energy. Solar distillation unit coupled with thermal collectors, photovoltaic panels, and concentrators makes the system active and increases the distillate three to six times than conventional units. Multistage, multieffect active solar still is observed to give an average distillate output of 20 kg/m2/d. Economic analysis also shows that active solar still is a good replacement of nonrenewable energy based water purification techniques. In this article, different water desalination techniques with their economic analysis are briefly discussed. Detailed comprehensive review of researches carried out on active solar still system considering their designs, performance parameters, different hybrid combinations, along with challenges, opportunities, future scope of improvements have also been highlighted. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 444–464, 2018
Short term effects of treated greywater by high rate algal ponds process on vegetable yield and soil properties under Sudano‐Sahelian climate conditions
Authors: Sangare Drissa , Sawadogo Boukary , Sou/Dakoure Mariam , Ouedraogo Danielle M. , Hijikata Nowaki , Yacouba Hamma , Coulibaly Lacina , Funamizu Naoyuki
Published: June 2017

Greywater is a valuable additional water source for agriculture in arid and semi‐arid countries subject to water scarcity. However, the impacts of applying greywater to agricultural land in the Sudano‐Sahelian regions are not adequately understood. This study evaluates the impacts of using greywater, treated by the High Rate Algal Ponds system (HRAPs), on soil characteristics and okra growth and yield in the Sudano‐Sahelian regions. The methodology consisted of growing okra under four different irrigation conditions: (i) treated greywater (TGW); (ii) fresh well water (FWW); (iii) TGW and chemical fertilizer (TGW + FERT) and (iv) FWW and chemical fertilizer (FWW + FERT). The test beds were sampled before and after cultivation to analyze soil pH and sodicity status (e.g., sodium absorption ratio: SAR). The okra growth, fruit yield and total dry biomass were recorded. Fresh fruit weight is significantly higher with TGW (761.17 ± 53.69 kg.ha−1) compared to FWW (497.15 ± 100.02 kg.ha−1) and FWW + FERT (307.93 ± 100.04 kg.ha−1). This result likely occurs due to the nutrients (e.g., nitrogen) present in TGW. Conversely, the average SAR of soil irrigated with TGW + FERT (12.47) and TGW (8.83) are significantly higher than those of the soil irrigated with FWW (2.92) and soil before cultivation (0.95). Therefore, it is recommended that soil salinity or/and sodicity is monitored when irrigating with TGW and that well water is used for every third irrigation cycle to prevent soil degradation though increased salinity. Overall, the appropriate reuse of greywater improves food security and the sustainability of agriculture in arid to semi‐arid regions. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 465–470, 2018
Membership function comparative investigation on productivity forecasting of solar still using adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system approach
Authors: Mashaly Ahmed F. , Alazba A. A.
Published: June 2017

Modeling solar still productivity (SSP) is one of the most studied topics in solar desalination due to it having essential applications in the design of solar still systems. This study applied an adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and different membership functions (MFs) to predict the SSP required by designers, operators, and beneficiaries of solar stills. The output of this research can be used as a reference for designing and managing solar stills that could lead to optimizing the performance. The modeling process was based on real‐field experimental data. The model considers the solar radiation, relative humidity, total dissolved solids of the feed, total dissolved solids of the brine, and feed flow rate as the input variables. The results show that ANFIS forecasting with generalized bell MF (GBELLMF) produced the highest correlation coefficient (CC) and the smallest root mean square error (RMSE) when compared with other MF types. Thus, the ANFIS model with GBELLMF (CC = 0.99; RMSE = 0.03 L/m2/h) provides the best SSP prediction accuracy, which is better than other models with MFs. In addition, the statistical indicators demonstrate that the ANFIS model is better for predicting the SSP than multiple linear regressions. These findings demonstrate that ANFIS can be applied to forecast the SSP using weather and operational data as inputs with the best membership function (which is GBELLMF). © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 249–259, 2018
Modified alginate beads as biosensor and biosorbent for simultaneous detection and removal of cobalt ions from aqueous solution
Authors: Zhuang Shuting , Wang Jianlong
Published: June 2017

A novel biomaterial was prepared to simultaneously detect and remove cobalt ions from aqueous solution by modifying alginate (AG) polymer with a high selectivity and sensitive indicator for Co2+, 4‐(5‐chloro‐2‐pyridylazo)‐1,3‐phenylenediamine (5‐Cl‐PADAB). The analysis of FT‐IR spectra proved that 5‐Cl‐PADAB was covalently connected to AG. The modified AG beads can effectively adsorb Co2+ and indicate the presence of Co2+ in aqueous solution. After adsorption of Co2+, the color of the modified AG beads changed from yellow to pink, resulting in a noticeable change, which can be observed by naked eyes. The adsorption of Co2+ by the modified AG beads can be described by pseudo second‐order kinetic model and the Freundlich isotherm model. The AG bead modified with an indicator is a promising biosensor and biosorbent for simultaneous detection and removal of cobalt ions from aqueous solution. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 260–266, 2018
Acute hepatic porphyrias: Recommendations for evaluation and long‐term management
Authors: Balwani Manisha , Wang Bruce , Anderson Karl E. , Bloomer Joseph R. , Bissell D. Montgomery , Bonkovsky Herbert L. , Phillips John D. , Desnick Robert J. ,   for the Porphyrias Consortium of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network
Published: June 2017

The acute hepatic porphyrias are a group of four inherited disorders, each resulting from a deficiency in the activity of a specific enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. These disorders present clinically with acute neurovisceral symptoms which may be sporadic or recurrent and, when severe, can be life‐threatening. The diagnosis is often missed or delayed as the clinical features resemble other more common medical conditions. There are four major subgroups: symptomatic patients with sporadic attacks (<4 attacks/year) or recurrent acute attacks (≥4 attacks/year), asymptomatic high porphyrin precursor excretors, and asymptomatic latent patients without symptoms or porphyrin precursor elevations. Given their clinical heterogeneity and potential for significant morbidity with suboptimal management, comprehensive clinical guidelines for initial evaluation, follow‐up, and long‐term management are needed, particularly because no guidelines exist for monitoring disease progression or response to treatment. The Porphyrias Consortium of the National Institutes of Health's Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network, which consists of expert centers in the clinical management of these disorders, has formulated these recommendations. These recommendations are based on the literature, ongoing natural history studies, and extensive clinical experience. Initial assessments should include diagnostic confirmation by biochemical testing, subsequent genetic testing to determine the specific acute hepatic porphyria, and a complete medical history and physical examination. Newly diagnosed patients should be counseled about avoiding known precipitating factors. The frequency of follow‐up depends on the clinical subgroup, with close monitoring of patients with recurrent attacks who may require treatment modifications as well as those with clinical complications. Comprehensive care should include subspecialist referrals when needed. Annual assessments include biochemical testing and monitoring for long‐term complications. These guidelines provide a framework for monitoring patients with acute hepatic porphyrias to ensure optimal outcomes. (Hepatology 2017;66:1314‐1322)
Mitochondrial Point Mutation m.3243A>G Associates With Lower Bone Mineral Density, Thinner Cortices, and Reduced Bone Strength: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Langdahl Jakob Høgild , Frederiksen Anja Lisbeth , Hansen Stinus Jørn , Andersen Per Heden , Yderstræde Knud Bonnet , Dunø Morten , Vissing John , Frost Morten
Published: June 2017

Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with several clinical manifestations including diabetes mellitus (DM), neurological disorders, renal and hepatic diseases, and myopathy. Although mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation in mouse models, effects of alterations in mitochondrial function on bone remodeling and mass have not been investigated in humans. We recruited 45 carriers (29 females, 16 males) with the m.3243A>G mutation and healthy controls matched for gender, age, height, and menopausal status. DXA and HRpQCT scans were performed, and bone turnover markers (BTMs) P1NP and CTX were measured. Cases and controls were well matched except for body weight, which was lower in cases (63.6 ± 18.1 kg versus 74.6 ± 14.8 kg, p < 0.01), and manifest DM was present in 25 of 45 cases (none in controls). Bone scans showed lower BMD at the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck in cases. Mean lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck T-scores were –1.5, –1.3, and –1.6 in cases, respectively, and –0.8, –0.3, and –0.7 in controls (all p < 0.05). The m.3243A>G mutation was associated with lower BMD, cortical but not trabecular density, cortical thickness, and estimated bone strength. Furthermore, BTMs were lower in the m.3243A>G group before but not after adjustment for DM. The mitochondrial point mutation m.3243A>G was associated with decreased bone mass and strength. Although the coexistence of DM may have influenced bone turnover, the bone phenotype observed in m.3243A>G cases appeared to mirror age-related deterioration in bone, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction may cause a premature aging of bone. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Clinical implications of pretreatment inflammatory biomarkers as independent prognostic indicators in prostate cancer
Authors: Sun Zhaohui , Ju Ying , Han Fuyan , Sun Xiya , Wang Fang
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Research on the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and malignant tumors has become a hotspot. Many studies have demonstrated that neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) could act as independent prognostic indicators for several solid tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical implications of pretreatment inflammatory biomarkers, including NLR, PLR, and RDW as independent prognostic indicators in prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

A total of 226 PCa patients who were diagnosed at our institution from 2011 to 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. We compared the clinicopathological features, survival curves, and prognosis of the PCa patients between the high and low groups according to the cutoffs of NLR, PLR, and RDW.

Results

The pretreatment NLR, PLR, and RDW values were significantly higher in the patients with PCa than those in the controls (P<.05). Increased NLR and PLR values were significantly associated with high risk of progression, including higher Gleason scores, cell proliferation antigen 67 (Ki‐67) indexes, and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels (P<.05), whereas an elevated RDW was only associated with an older age. An increased NLR was correlated with both overall survival (OS) (P=.025) and disease‐free survival (DFS) (P=.017). In addition, a higher PLR only showed a significantly worse DFS (P=.040). Pretreatment NLR was an independent prognostic indicator of DFS.

Conclusions

The pretreatment NLR and PLR might be beneficial to predict the progression and prognosis of PCa. Furthermore, NLR was more effective than PLR acting as an independent prognostic indicator for PCa.
Enhanced serum levels of matrix Gla protein and bone morphogenetic protein in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Buyukterzi Zafer , Can Ummugulsum , Alpaydin Sertac , Guzelant Asuman , Karaarslan Sukru , Mustu Mehmet , Kocyigit Duygu , Gurses Kadri Murat
Published: June 2017

Background

Vascular calcification has been found to be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Various bone‐associated proteins have been suggested to be related with this process. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether serum levels of bone morphogenic protein‐4 (BMP‐4) and matrix Gla protein (MGP) differed in patients who were found to have normal epicardial coronary arteries or a culprit lesion in the coronary angiography leading to acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

Patients admitted to emergency department with the diagnosis of ACS who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between October 2015 and April 2016 were consecutively recruited as the patient group. Age and gender‐matched subjects who underwent coronary angiography following non‐invasive ischemia assessment made the control group.

Results

A total of 90 subjects (63.00±14.02 years, 70% male) were included in this study. MGP (<0.001) and BMP‐4 (<0.001) levels were significantly elevated when compared to subjects with normal coronary arteries. Fasting blood glucose (P=.024), HDL‐cholesterol (P=.002), C‐reactive protein (CRP) (P=.001) levels, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P=.021) were significantly correlated with serum MGP levels. HDL‐cholesterol (P=.001) and CRP (P=.030) levels were also significantly correlated with serum BMP‐4 levels. In the model including HDL‐cholesterol, CRP, MGP, and BMP‐4 levels, only MGP (odds ratio[OR]: 1.018, P=.019) and BMP‐4 (OR: 1.313, P=.023) were found to be independently associated with ACS.

Conclusion

This study shows that serum BMP‐4 and MGP are independently associated with ACS occurrence when adjusted for other CV risk factors. These biomarkers may have a diagnostic potential in ACS patients.
Anti‐ENA antibody profiles in patients with hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Litwin Christine M. , Rourk Angela R.
Published: June 2017

Background

The presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) has been described following hepatitis C virus (HCV). Very few studies have investigated the presence of anti‐extractable nuclear antigens (ENA) in HCV infection.

Methods

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of ENA antibodies in 100 patients with HCV infection compared to the prevalence of ENA antibodies in 100 healthy control patients. Sera from patients were tested for ENA using a multiplex microbead immunoassay. Sera positive for ENA were subsequently tested for ANA using an indirect immunofluorescence assay and titered if positive.

Results

Fourteen (14%) of the 100 patients with HCV infection had anti‐ENA antibodies: four each showed anti‐SSA antibodies and anti‐dsDNA antibodies, three each had RNP antibodies and Scl‐70 antibodies, and one each had anti‐SSB, centromere B, Sm, and Sm/RNP antibodies. Ten of the 14 patients positive for anti‐ENA were positive by indirect immunofluorescence staining (IFA) with titers ranging from 1:40 to 1:160. Five had antinuclear patterns, one had combined antinuclear and cytoplasmic patterns, and four only had a cytoplasmic pattern. Three of the 100 healthy control patients had ANA positive titers (1:80 and 1:320) and anti‐ENA antibodies: one anti‐Scl‐70 and two anti‐RNP.

Conclusion

The prevalence of anti‐ENA antibodies was significantly higher in the patients with HCV infections than in the healthy controls. Other studies of anti‐ENA profiles in patients with HCV infection have identified similar patterns of positivity for anti‐SSA, anti‐SSB, anti‐dsDNA, anti‐RNP, anti‐ Sm/RNP, Scl‐70, centromere B, and anti‐Sm.
A two‐step strategy to visually identify molecularly imprinted polymers for tagged proteins
Authors: Brandis Alexander , Partouche Eran , Yechezkel Tamar , Salitra Yoseph , Shkoulev Vladimir , Scherz Avigdor , Grynszpan Flavio
Published: June 2017

A practical and relatively simple method to identify molecularly imprinted polymers capable of binding proteins via the molecular tagging (epitope‐like) approach has been developed. In our two‐step method, we first challenge a previously obtained anti‐tag molecularly imprinted polymer with a small molecule including the said tag of choice (a biotin derivative as shown here or other) connected to a linker bound to a second biotin moiety. An avidin molecule partially decorated with fluorescent labels is then allowed to bind the available biotin derivative associated with the polymer matrix. At the end of this simple process, and after washing off all the low‐affinity binding molecules from the polymer matrix, only suitable molecularly imprinted polymers binding avidin through its previously acquired small molecule tag (or epitope‐like probe, in a general case) will remain fluorescent. For confirmation, we tested the selective performance of the anti‐biotin molecularly imprinted polymer binding it to biotinylated alkaline phosphatase. Residual chemical activity of the enzyme on the molecularly imprinted polymer solid support was observed. In all cases, the corresponding nonimprinted polymer controls were inactive.
A Convex Hull‐Based New Metric for Quantification of Bladder Wall Irregularity in Pediatric Patients With Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract
Authors: Stember Joseph N. , Newhouse Jeffrey , Behr Gerald , Alam Shumyle
Published: June 2017

Objectives

Early identification and quantification of bladder damage in pediatric patients with congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) is crucial to guiding effective treatment and may affect the eventual clinical outcome, including progression of renal disease. We have developed a novel approach based on the convex hull to calculate bladder wall trabecularity in pediatric patients with CAKUT. The objective of this study was to test whether our approach can accurately predict bladder wall irregularity.

Methods

Twenty pediatric patients, half with renal compromise and CAKUT and half with normal renal function, were evaluated. We applied the convex hull approach to calculate T, a metric proposed to reflect the degree of trabeculation/bladder wall irregularity, in this set of patients.

Results

The average T value was roughly 3 times higher for diseased than healthy patients (0.14 [95% confidence interval, 0.10–0.17] versus 0.05 [95% confidence interval, 0.03–0.07] for normal bladders). This disparity was statistically significant (P < .01).

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that a convex hull‐based procedure can measure bladder wall irregularity. Because bladder damage is a reversible precursor to irreversible renal parenchymal damage, applying such a measure to at‐risk pediatric patients can help guide prompt interventions to avert disease progression.
Stress Fractures of the Calcaneus Diagnosed by Sonography: Report of 8 Cases
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Luong Dien Hung
Published: June 2017

We present a retrospective review of 8 patients (6 women and 2 men, with an age range of 46–80 years; mean age, 60.2 years) in whom sonography was used to diagnose a calcaneal stress fracture. Sonography was performed because of a clinical suspicion of soft tissue injuries. Two patients were first assessed by standard radiography; for the remaining patients, sonography was the first imaging technique used. Patients were subsequently examined by magnetic resonance imaging, except for 1 patient in whom the diagnosis was made only on a clinical‐sonographic correlation. On sonography, there was thickening of the periosteum and subcutaneous edema in all patients; a calcified bone callus was evident in none of the 8 patients. Cortical irregularities were found in 6 of 8 patients. Color Doppler imaging showed local hypervascular changes of the periosteum in all patients. Sonography, together with clinical findings, can be used to diagnose a calcaneal stress fracture. We suggest that sonologists should include a calcaneal stress fracture in their differential diagnosis in cases of mechanical hind foot pain. They must also include, as a part of every sonographic examination of the ankle, an examination of the calcaneus and be aware of the sonographic appearance of stress fractures. If the diagnosis is still uncertain after the sonographic examination, magnetic resonance imaging should be prescribed.
Nutrients and phytoplankton in semienclosed lagoon systems in Florida Bay and their responses to changes in flow from Everglades restoration
Authors: Shangguan Yini , Glibert Patricia M. , Alexander Jeffrey A. , Madden Christopher J. , Murasko Susan
Published: June 2017

The largest estuarine flow restoration project is the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). In 2012, one of its first phases, the C‐111 Project, was initiated and designed to increase freshwater flow into northern Florida Bay. Effects of changes in flow and associated nutrients on phytoplankton abundance and composition were studied in two sets of interconnected, quasi‐enclosed saline lakes at the southern end of the Everglades that discharge into northern Florida Bay. After C‐111 implementation, total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) decreased, driven by especially large declines in
. In spite of N reduction, those lakes that has been oligotrophic prior to the project experienced an approximate doubling of phytoplankton biomass as nutrient ratios converged on Redfield proportions, and a shift to smaller sized cells and a loss of diatoms as
availability declined. The other set of these lakes, previously highly eutrophic, sustained a significant, nearly 50%, decline in overall phytoplankton biomass, particularly larger sized cells, which, in turn, increased downstream. A chemostat model was invoked to explain these changes based on changes in flow and nutrients. In both systems the proportions of picocyanobacteria increased in the upper lakes as the relative availability of chemically reduced forms of N increased. Both lake systems may export algal biomass, changing the phytoplankton assemblage in northern Florida Bay. These lakes may also serve as buffers, damping the effects in Florida Bay itself, and they illustrate broad implications for estuaries that are impacted by natural or anthropogenic changes in flow.
Experimental nitrogen and phosphorus additions increase rates of stream ecosystem respiration and carbon loss
Authors: Kominoski John S. , Rosemond Amy D. , Benstead Jonathan P. , Gulis Vlad , Manning David W. P.
Published: June 2017

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) enrichment reduces organic carbon (C) storage in detritus‐based stream ecosystems, but the relative effects of N and P concentrations and ratios on stream metabolic rates have not previously been tested. We tracked changes in whole‐stream ecosystem respiration (ER) and gross primary productivity (GPP), particulate organic matter (POM) standing stocks, fungal biomass, and POM‐specific respiration rates before and during 2 yr of experimental N and P enrichment in five forest streams. Nutrient additions (∼ 96 μg N L−1 to ∼ 472 μg N L−1 and ∼ 10 μg P L−1 to ∼ 85 μg P L−1) targeted dissolved N : P molar ratios of 2, 8, 16, 32, and 128. Whole‐stream ER was positively related to standing stock of wood, a seasonably stable POM compartment that varied by up to 2× among streams. Nutrient enrichment generally increased ER but had no effect on low‐level GPP. Prior to nutrient enrichment, ER was higher at lower N : P, but during enrichment ER increased with increasing N : P. Respiration rates on leaf litter and wood increased with enrichment but decreased with increasing P, and the quantity of leaf litter generally declined with increasing N. Respiration rates on fine benthic organic matter (FBOM) were higher with increasing N : P, and FBOM standing stocks decreased with increasing N. Fungal biomass did not change with nutrient enrichment. Compared to pre‐enrichment conditions, nutrients increased seasonal variation in leaf litter standing stocks and whole‐stream respiration rates. Our results demonstrate how nutrient‐stimulated loss of C from detritus‐based ecosystems occurs through the maintenance of enhanced respiration rates on detrital resources that are particularly sensitive to N inputs.
Diverging views on health information exchange organizations
Authors: Vest Joshua R. , Greenberger Mari F. , Garnatz Audrey
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Health information exchange (HIE) capabilities meet the demands for a more effective, efficient, and safer health care system. However, organizations and individual providers have pursued different strategies to meet their respective needs for HIE capabilities. Because effective information sharing is necessary to a learning health system, this study sought to explore the perceptions of different approaches' effect on key features of an effective health care system.

Methods

An anonymous web‐based survey was sent to a convenience sample of the membership of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society and the Strategic Health Information Exchange Collaborative with knowledge of HIE (n=68). A series of 7‐point Likert‐type items measured perceptions of enterprise health information exchanges (eHIEs) and community health information organizations (cHIOs) in the areas of effect on exchange participation, effect on market dynamics, relationship to DIRECT Secure Messaging and vendor‐mediated exchange, and effect on quality. Also, respondents were asked to rate 13 qualities and services as “more about eHIE” or “more about cHIO.”

Results

Respondents tended to agree on the importance of cHIO and eHIE. Community benefits and support for public health agencies were concepts more often applied to cHIOs.

Discussion

This study affirmed much of the conventional wisdom and anecdotal comments about perceptions of cHIOs and eHIEs. Although the respondents viewed cHIOs and eHIEs differently in terms of broader societal benefit and strategic advantage, nonetheless consistent agreement appeared in areas of importance in relationship to other information sharing strategies and overall effect on the quality of care.
HOW HIGH‐POTENTIAL LEADERS CAN MASTER THE MACRO ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Charan Ram
Published: June 2017

The term high‐potential leaders (shortened to hipos) has come into increasing use. Charan explains what hipos should do to move into and through the leadership pipeline of an organization. He outlines such activities as disciplined delving into information about customers and competitors, while paying attention to such areas as “geopolitics, the global financial system, social and demographic trends, and government regulation.” Charan draws on case studies from the likes of Japanese “fast fashion” retailer Uniqlo, and describes the benefits of keeping up with technology, and observing one's company from the perspective of a competitor. Hipos are well‐equipped to understand today's new world, where “power has passed to the consumer.”.
WHO DO YOU CHOOSE TO BE? AN INVITATION TO THE NOBILITY OF LEADERSHIP
Authors: Wheatley Margaret
Published: June 2017

Wheatley describes today's challenging landscape as an “age of retreat: from one another, from values that held us together, from ideas and practices that encouraged inclusion, from faith in leaders, from belief in basic human goodness.” This calls for leaders to acknowledge where they are, what they must deal with, and what and with whom they have to work with. Only by facing and addressing this reality can they move on to something better for themselves, their followers, organizations, communities, and society as a whole. Yet there is hope. She reminds us that “all people want to belong and feel part of a community.”
DEVELOPING THE SUSTAINABLE EDGE
Authors: Apte Suhas , Sheth Jagdish
Published: June 2017

Apte and Sheth believe that sustainability can provide an edge to companies, if it is approached in the right way, and becomes a systematic, holistic, and crucial part of the organization. They outline a model of various impacts on a broad range of stakeholders, rather than the narrower lens of only shareholders. These stakeholders are, in their words, consumers, customers, employees, media, governments, nongovernmental organizations, communities, investors, and suppliers. Apte and Sheth conclude that “businesses that embrace sustainability as fundamental to their mission realize the most productive and long‐lasting sustainability platforms‐platforms that are at once financially, environmentally, and socially successful.”
ENGAGING EMPLOYEES TODAY: MORE THAN JUST MEASUREMENT
Authors: Nelson Bob
Published: June 2017

The phrase “employee engagement” has become fashionable. Yet not many companies truly engage their employees to better serve customers and other stakeholders. Nelson provides “six strategies any leader can employ to move up the needle on engagement, while improving employee loyalty and performance.” They are, in Nelson's words: (1) create a clear and compelling direction, (2) provide honest and open communication, (3) involve employees in decision making, (4) increase employee autonomy and flexibility, (5) develop your team, and (6) recognize and reward high performance. Leaders, Nelson believes, “need to set the stage for their people to perform, and to unleash the greatness that is within each and every one of them.”
Differential Impact of Weight Loss on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Resolution in a North American Cohort with Obesity
Authors: Rachakonda Vikrant , Wills Rachel , DeLany James P. , Kershaw Erin E. , Behari Jaideep
Published: June 2017

Objective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely associated with obesity. In this study, a North American cohort with obesity enrolled in a lifestyle modification program was examined to determine the impact of weight loss on NAFLD resolution and sarcopenia.

Methods

Nondiabetic individuals with World Health Organization Class II/III obesity enrolled in a 6‐month weight loss intervention were included. Steatosis was measured using computed tomography (CT)‐derived liver:spleen attenuation ratio. Body composition was assessed using dual X‐ray absorptiometry, air‐displacement plethysmography, and CT anthropometry.

Results

At baseline, participants with NAFLD had greater visceral adipose tissue (VAT) but similar skeletal muscle area compared to those without NAFLD. After intervention, weight loss was similar in the two groups, but participants with NAFLD lost more VAT than those without NAFLD (−38.81 [−55.98 to −21.63] cm2 vs. −13.82 [−29.65 to −2.02] cm2; P = 0.017). In the subset with NAFLD at baseline, participants with NAFLD resolution after intervention lost more VAT than those with persistent NAFLD (−57.23 [−88.63 to −25.84) cm2 vs. −26.92 [−52.14 to −26.92] cm2, P = 0.039).

Conclusions

In a Western cohort with obesity, NAFLD was not associated with sarcopenia. After lifestyle modification, there was a differential impact on NAFLD resolution, with twofold greater VAT loss in participants who resolved NAFLD compared with those with persistent NAFLD despite similar weight loss
Ultrasonic mixing head for liquid composite molding: Process and material characteristics
Authors: Schaefer Maximilian K. , Raffelt Wolfgang , Zaremba Swen , Drechsler Klaus
Published: June 2017

Current thermosetting resin injection methods, especially those used for liquid composite molding processes, have in most cases remained incapable in terms of being environmentally friendly and cost‐effective at the same time. To help overcome these drawbacks, the use of a low‐pressure metering machine connected to a most recently developed ultrasonic mixing head is proposed in this study. The working principle of the system is based on benefitting from ultrasound induced acoustic cavitation effect to mix and heat the reactive thermosetting resins on line. The processing parameters of the proposed system investigated through the study include volume flow, resin temperature, counter pressure, amplitude and chamber volume. A commercially used static mixing head was used for the purpose of performance comparison. The experimental findings obtained were evaluated and discussed with emphasis being placed on the effectiveness of using an ultrasonic mixing head for liquid composite molding processes. It was found that mixing and heating the thermosetting resin systems in the ultrasonic mixing head is untroublesome and holds promise being replaced with a static mixing head in an affordable manner. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3977–3985, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Clinical Trial Designs to Support Clinical Utility of Pharmacogenomic Testing
Authors: Drozda Katarzyna , Pacanowski Michael A.
Published: June 2017

Advancing the use of biomarkers and pharmacogenomics has been a key priority area for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA offers prescribing recommendations to manage ~100 gene‐drug interactions, and multiple institutions around the United States and abroad have incorporated genomic testing into patient care. However, the penetration of pharmacogenomic testing remains incomplete. In this perspective, we summarize the evidence streams to support the clinical utility of pharmacogenomic testing and its transition into clinical practice.
Depression profile in cancer patients and patients without a chronic somatic disease
Authors: Nikendei Christoph , Terhoeven Valentin , Ehrenthal Johannes C. , Maatouk Imad , Wild Beate , Herzog Wolfgang , Friederich Hans‐Christoph
Published: June 2017

Background

To investigate whether depressed oncology patients show a specific depressive symptom profile, we compared depression symptoms in depressed cancer patients (CANCER‐DEP) and depressed patients without a chronic somatic disease (NONCANCER‐DEP).

Methods

Of a total of 2493 outpatients from a comprehensive cancer center and a center for psychosocial medicine, 1054 (42.3%) met the DSM‐5 criteria for depression, measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire 9. Based on the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 scores, differences in severity of each of the 9 individual DSM‐5 depression symptoms between CANCER‐DEP (n = 542) and NONCANCER‐DEP (n = 512) were examined. Non‐depressed cancer patients (CANCER‐NONDEP; n = 1216) served as a comparison group for somatic symptoms independent of depression in cancer. To control for depression severity, group comparisons were performed separately for patients with major depression and any depressive disorders.

Results

Depressed cancer patients reported significantly lower levels of the cognitive‐emotional depression symptoms “worthlessness” and “suicidal thoughts” than NONCANCER‐DEP. Only 1 out of 5 somatic depression symptoms (“changes in appetite”) was more pronounced in CANCER‐DEP than in NONCANCER‐DEP. Confirming previous research, somatic depression symptoms occurred more frequently in CANCER‐DEP than in CANCER‐NONDEP.

Conclusions

The lower level of cognitive‐emotional symptoms in CANCER‐DEP than in NONCANCER‐DEP is discussed in relation to different psychosocial phenomena. Our results indicate that somatic depression symptoms are similarly pronounced in CANCER‐DEP and NONCANCER‐DEP, and that CANCER‐DEP show greater somatic depression symptoms than CANCER‐NONDEP. The presence of high levels of somatic symptoms should alert clinicians to investigate for a potential comorbid depression in cancer patients.