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To mitigate climate change, CO2 sequestration from the atmosphere is being considered as a method to reduce its greenhouse effect and subsequently lower the Earth's surface temperature. A promising approach is the storage of CO2 in minerals, of which Olivine is a promising candidate due to its Earth abundance and high CO2 absorption capacity, which is of the order of 50 wt.%. A bottleneck for Olivine carbonation is the slow reaction rate at ambient conditions, which previously resulted in supplying CO2 at extreme pressures and temperatures to force carbonation. In this study, nanoscale Olivine particles are fabricated, which due to their high surface‐to‐volume ratio, reach a very high carbonation conversion at a time scale of minutes at ambient conditions. The carbonation is measured by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which yielded both the presence of carbonates as well as information on the Olivine oxidation state, in agreement with electron diffraction analysis. This work forms the basis for employing Olivine nanoparticles, as fabricated by the relatively simple method of magnetron sputtering, to capture CO2 from the atmosphere at economic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing age of liver donors and transplant candidates, together with the growing prevalence of metabolic comorbidities, could impact the risk of vascular complications after liver transplantation. We enrolled a consecutive cohort of adult patients undergoing liver transplantation from 2012 to 2021 who had a blinded pathological assessment of atherosclerosis in the donor and recipient hepatic arteries (HA). Patients receiving partial or reduced grafts, retransplantation, or combined organ transplantation were excluded. The relationship between HA atherosclerosis and HA thrombosis after liver transplantation was evaluated using logistic regression in the whole study cohort and in a propensity score‐matched subpopulation. Among 443 eligible patients, 272 had a full pathological evaluation of the donor and recipient HA and were included in the study. HA atheroma was present in 51.5% of donors and in 11.4% of recipients. HA thrombosis occurred in 16 patients (5.9%), being more likely in patients who received a donor with HA atherosclerosis than in those without (10.7% vs. 0.8%; p < 0.001). Donor HA atherosclerosis was an independent risk factor of HA thrombosis (OR = 17.79; p = 0.008), and this finding was consistent in the propensity score‐matched analysis according to age, sex, complex arterial anastomosis, and alcoholic liver disease (OR = 19.29; p = 0.007). Atheromatous disease in the recipient had no influence on the risk of HA thrombosis (OR = 1.70; p = 0.55). In conclusion, patients receiving donors with HA atherosclerosis are at increased risk for HA thrombosis after liver transplantation. The evaluation of the donor graft vasculature could guide antiplatelet therapy in the postoperative period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macrocycles offer an attractive format for drug development due to their good binding properties and potential to cross cell membranes. To efficiently identify macrocyclic ligands for new targets, methods for the synthesis and screening of large combinatorial libraries of small cyclic peptides were developed, many of them using thiol groups for efficient peptide macrocyclization. However, a weakness of these libraries is that invariant thiol‐containing building blocks such as cysteine are used, resulting in a region that does not contribute to library diversity but increases molecule size. Herein, we synthesized a series of structurally diverse thiol‐containing elements and used them for the combinatorial synthesis of a 2,688‐member library of small, structurally diverse peptidic macrocycles with unprecedented skeletal complexity. We then used this library to discover potent thrombin and plasma kallikrein inhibitors, some also demonstrating favorable membrane permeability. X‐ray structure analysis of macrocycle‐target complexes showed that the size and shape of the newly developed thiol elements are key for binding. The strategy and library format presented in this work significantly enhance structural diversity by allowing combinatorial modifications to a previously invariant region of peptide macrocycles, which may be broadly applied in the development of membrane permeable therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although different social crises may eventually favor undemocratic and authoritarian forms of governance, at some point, such antidemocratic practices require the support of a significant part of the population to be implemented. The present research investigates how and whether the COVID‐19 pandemic might have favoured greater support for antidemocratic governmental practices, on the premise of regaining control and security. Using data from 17 countries (N = 4364) and national‐level indicators (i.e., real number of contagions and deaths, and sociopolitical indicators), we test how the risk of contagion and death from COVID‐19, along with personal orientations (i.e., social dominance orientation [SDO], right‐wing authoritarianism [RWA], and perceived anomie) motivate authoritarian and antidemocratic practices. Results from multilevel models indicate that risk perception and perceptions of political instability predict a wish for stronger leadership, agreement with martial law, and support for a controlling government especially when SDO and RWA are high, while more egalitarian and less conservative people agree less with these authoritarian measures in spite of the levels of risk perception. We discuss the implications for these findings for future research on similar but also dissimilar external events (natural disasters, war, or terror incidents) and the consequences for societies with higher authoritarian tendencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transoral laser microsurgery represents the primary surgical modality for early laryngeal cancers with oncologic outcomes equivalent to radiotherapy. Accurate tumor mapping and margin assessment can be difficult, however, particularly during piecemeal or ablative resections, and for tumors with a wider geographic footprint. Tumor‐targeted fluorescence‐guided surgery in patients with head and neck cancer has empirically improved tumor and margin identification; this case details, for the first time, a fluorescence‐guided surgical resection of a T2N0M0 transglottic tumor using panitumumab‐IRDye800, an epidermal growth factor receptor monoclonal antibody covalently linked to near‐infrared (NIR) dye. Laryngoscope, 134:1837–1841, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite construction is becoming increasingly used across the world, since it enables to exploit the benefits of steel and concrete working together, leading to cost‐effective solutions. Recent technological developments have facilitated the introduction of new typologies, which combined with the use of high performance materials allow for significant load‐bearing capacities with reduced cross‐sectional dimensions. One of these innovative composite sections are the so‐called steel‐reinforced concrete‐filled steel tubular (SR‐CFST) columns, where an open steel profile is embedded into a CFST section. Apart from the broadly recognized benefits of these typologies at room temperature, they show an enhanced fire performance due to the inherent fire protection offered by the surrounding concrete to the inner steel profile, which delays its loss of mechanical capacity at elevated temperatures. However, the experimental evidence on the fire behaviour of SR‐CFST columns is still scarce, being much needed for the development of specific design provisions that consider the use of the inner steel profile in CFST columns. In this paper, a new testing program on the thermo‐mechanical behaviour of SR‐CFST columns is presented to extend the available experimental database. A cylindrical electric furnace attached to a loading rig equipped with a 5000 kN hydraulic jack is used. In total six SR‐CFST stub columns are tested, three circular and three square sections, combining high strength steel and concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, an experimental campaign was carried out to evaluate the post‐fire mechanical performance of high‐strength steel specimens (grade S700) when being subjected simultaneously to different combinations of tensile load and elevated temperature. To this end, transient‐state tests were firstly carried out to obtain the 'critical temperature', i.e., the temperature at which a specimen failed while being simultaneously subjected to tensile load and heated at a constant temperature rate. Secondly, post‐fire tests were performed on unloaded as well as loaded specimens. For that purpose, specimens were heated to temperatures below the critical temperature, cooled down in air and finally submitted to tensile testing. In order to investigate the influence of production route, specimens were extracted from cold‐formed circular hollow sections and hot‐rolled sheets. Moreover, coupons with five different thicknesses were tested to investigate the influence of section thickness on the post‐fire behaviour. Residual values of yield strength, ultimate strength, elastic modulus and ductility were determined from the tests and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is no denying that there is a growing need for reusable systems in the construction industry. This is not only a by‐product of the increasing demand of materials, but also a necessity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated to the manufacturing process of construction components. Reusable systems aim to solidify the transition from a linear economy model to a circular economy model, where the lifecycle of materials is extended overtime. However, there are several factors that might hinder the reusability of structural components, ranging from regular use over a time period to accidental situations, such as earthquakes and fires. This experimental study focuses its efforts on the analysis of demountable shear connectors for composite structural systems under the influence of high temperatures that resemble a situation of fire. The main idea behind this experimental campaign is to combine a standard push‐out test, where a specimen composed by a HEB‐260 steel profile with reinforced concrete slabs connected to its flanges via high strength bolts is subjected to a vertical force by utilizing a hydraulic jack with a simultaneous thermal action. The tests reproduce a previous experimental campaign performed at the University of Luxembourg (cylinder and coupler systems), but subjected to 4 different temperatures (20, 300, 500 and 600 °C). The loss of strength of the connectors with the temperature, the failure mode and the reusability after a situation of fire are discussed in the present study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burundi has one of the highest prevalence of stunting in the world. This study aimed to identify determinants of stunting among children under age five in Burundi. A total of 4993 children with anthropometric measurements from the 2016–2017 Burundi Demographic and Health Survey were included in the study. Stunting was assessed from the height‐for‐age Z‐scores (HAZ). Logistic regression models were analyzed to identify demographic, maternal, child‐related, and structural variables that influence stunting. In total, 56.9% of children under age five were stunted, of those 31.0% moderately and 25.9% severely. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that older children, male children (adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.41, 95% CI 1.24–1.61), and children who were perceived as small (aOR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.55–2.59) or very small at birth (aOR = 2.37, 95% CI 1.57–3.59) were significantly more likely to be stunted. Moreover, children of single mothers, with lower levels of education, who were underweight at the time of the survey (aOR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.42–2.68), who had short stature (aOR = 3.76, 95% CI 2.50–5.66) or who conceived more than four children (aOR = 1.22, 95% CI 1.05–1.42) were more commonly stunted. Stunting was more prevalent in rural areas (aOR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.72–3.73) and in households with no access to improved types of toilet facilities (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.10–1.45). The results of this study show that the prevalence of stunting in children under age five in Burundi is alarmingly high and underscores the urgent need for decisive and determined action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous research, the authors highlighted the limited fire resistance of slender concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) columns. A possible solution for enhancing the fire resistance of such columns consists of embedding an open steel profile within the concrete infill of the CFST section, generating the so‐called steel‐reinforced concrete‐filled steel tubular (SR‐CFST) section, where the inner steel profile results thermally protected by the surrounding concrete, thus delaying its degradation at elevated temperatures. This strategy may result beneficial in the fire situation as compared to other sectional configurations where the steel parts are directly exposed to the heat source. In this paper, a two‐dimensional finite element model will be developed for studying the thermal behaviour of SR‐CFST columns and validated by comparing the temperature distribution results with experimental tests available in the literature. The numerical model will be subsequently used to carry out parametric studies, in order to analyse the influence of the different parameters, such as the cross‐section shape, outer tube thickness or the inner steel profile sectional dimensions over the thermal response of these composite sections when subjected to fire. Finally, a simplified temperature distribution proposal will be developed, which may help practitioners for a fast evaluation of the cross‐sectional temperature field of SR‐CFST columns at a given fire resistance period by assigning an equivalent temperature to each component of the composite section (hollow steel tube, concrete encasement and inner steel profile). This simplified temperature proposal may result helpful when evaluating the sectional capacity of SR‐CFST columns in fire, by using a single strength and stiffness value for each component of the composite cross‐section corresponding to its temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel structures are severely affected by the extreme temperatures reached during a fire. After this, if the structure has not collapsed, the remaining elements can be reused if they are not excessively distorted or the material is still fit for service. In the last case, residual properties of steel must be adequate and fulfil the requirements of the current standards. On this matter, it is hypothesized that residual behaviour of steel not only depends on the highest temperature reached during the fire episode, but also on the load it was simultaneously bearing. This work is focused on an experimental study on the post‐fire behaviour of structural steels. Specimens were cut from structural steel (S355) cold‐formed circular hollow sections (CHS) and subjected to a combination of tensile stress and high temperature. Afterwards, the specimens were cooled in air back to room temperature and, finally, load was increased until specimen failure. The obtained results allowed discussing on the residual yield strength, ultimate strength and stiffness of the steel, and a special focus was put on the residual ductility. The results of this work can provide a basis to the appraisal of steel structures after fire, supporting the further decision on its reinstatement or subsequent demolition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three hundred and eight patients (94.2%) received mRNA-based vaccines (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273), whereas 19 patients (5.8%) received the viral vector-based vaccine AZD1222. Effect of Mycophenolate Mofetil dosing on antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in heart and lung transplant recipients. Immune response to BNT162b2 in solid organ transplant recipients: negative impact of Mycophenolate and high responsiveness of SARS-CoV-2 recovered subjects against Delta variant. Abbreviations COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019 LT Liver transplantation MMF mycophenolate mofetil SARS-CoV-2 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in liver transplant (LT) patients during the first wave of the pandemic was devastating. [Extracted from the article]

Preclinical and early clinical studies suggest that angiotensin‐converting enzyme type 2 activity may be impaired in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH); therefore, administration of exogenous angiotensin‐converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2) may be beneficial. This Phase IIa, multi‐center, open‐label, exploratory, single‐dose, dose‐escalation study (NCT03177603) assessed the potential vasodilatory effects of single doses of GSK2586881 (a recombinant human ACE2) on acute cardiopulmonary hemodynamics in hemodynamically stable adults with documented PAH who were receiving background PAH therapy. Successive cohorts of participants were administered a single intravenous dose of GSK2586881 of 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, or 0.8 mg/kg. Dose escalation occurred after four or more participants per cohort were dosed and a review of safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and hemodynamic data up to 24 h postdose was undertaken. The primary endpoint was a change in cardiopulmonary hemodynamics (pulmonary vascular resistance, cardiac index, and mean pulmonary artery pressure) from baseline. Secondary/exploratory objectives included safety and tolerability, effect on renin‐angiotensin system peptides, and pharmacokinetics. GSK2586881 demonstrated no consistent or sustained effect on acute cardiopulmonary hemodynamics in participants with PAH receiving background PAH therapy (N = 23). All doses of GSK2586881 were well tolerated. GSK2586881 was quantifiable in plasma for up to 4 h poststart of infusion in all participants and caused a consistent and sustained reduction in angiotensin II and a corresponding increase in angiotensin (1–7) and angiotensin (1–5). While there does not appear to be a consistent acute vasodilatory response to single doses of GSK2586881 in participants with PAH, the potential benefits in terms of chronic vascular remodeling remain to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the post‐fire ductility of steel reinforcements in reinforced concrete structures was studied experimentally. Specimens were subjected simultaneously to a constant tensile load and a heating up to a target temperature, which was a percentage of the 'critical temperature' for the load level applied. After that, the specimen was left to cool to room temperature and submitted to tensile testing in order to evaluate its residual ductility. Critical temperatures for each load level tested were obtained by performing transient‐state tests. In addition, unloaded specimens were subjected to the same thermal cycle of heating and cooling for comparison purposes. Results indicated that the residual ductility of a reinforcement depends on the maximum temperature reached and the load level it was bearing during the heating and cooling thermal cycle. It was demonstrated that ductility properties were not always recovered after cooling down, and the current code requirements for the ductility class of a reinforcement bar were not fulfilled. The obtained information can be relevant when deciding on the eventual reinstatement of a reinforced concrete structure in a post‐fire scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipotoxicity (LTx) leads to cellular dysfunction and cell death and has been proposed to be an underlying process during traumatic and hypoxic injuries and neurodegenerative conditions in the nervous system. This study examines cellular mechanisms responsible for docosahexaenoic acid (DHA 22:6 n‐3) protection in nerve growth factor‐differentiated pheochromocytoma (NGFDPC12) cells from palmitic acid (PAM)‐mediated lipotoxicity (PAM‐LTx). NGFDPC12 cells exposed to PAM show a significant lipotoxicity demonstrated by a robust loss of cell viability, apoptosis, and increased HIF‐1α and BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa protein‐interacting protein 3 gene expression. Treatment of NGFDPC12 cells undergoing PAM‐LTx with the pan‐caspase inhibitor ZVAD did not protect, but shifted the process from apoptosis to necroptosis. This shift in cell death mechanism was evident by the appearance of the signature necroptotic Topo I protein cleavage fragments, phosphorylation of mixed lineage kinase domain‐like, and inhibition with necrostatin‐1. Cultures exposed to PAM and co‐treated with necrostatin‐1 (necroptosis inhibitor) and rapamycin (autophagy promoter), showed a significant protection against PAM‐LTx compared to necrostatin‐1 alone. In addition, co‐treatment with DHA, as well as 20:5 n‐3, 20:4 n‐6, and 22:5 n‐3, in the presence of PAM protected NGFDPC12 cells against LTx. DHA‐induced neuroprotection includes restoring normal levels of HIF‐1α and BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kDa protein‐interacting protein 3 transcripts and caspase 8 and caspase 3 activity, phosphorylation of beclin‐1, de‐phosphorylation of mixed lineage kinase domain‐like, increase in LC3‐II, and up‐regulation of Atg7 and Atg12 genes, suggesting activation of autophagy and inhibition of necroptosis. Furthermore, DHA‐induced protection was suppressed by the lysosomotropic agent chloroquine, an inhibitor of autophagy. We conclude that DHA elicits neuroprotection by regulating multiple cell death pathways including enhancement of autophagy and inhibiting apoptosis and necroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Amphiphilic siderophores, including amphibactins, are the most abundant siderophores in oceans. Genes putatively encoding the amphibactin system were proposed in some bacteria and homologues of these genes are particularly abundant in multiple bacterial lineages inhabitant of low‐iron seawater. However, since no defective mutant strains in any of these genes were studied to date, their role in amphibactin synthesis or uptake was not demonstrated. In this work, an in silico analysis of the genome of the mollusc pathogen Vibrio neptunius leads us to identify a gene cluster (denoted absABDEF) that is predicted to encode an amphibactin‐like siderophore and several mutant strains unable to synthesize or use siderophores were constructed. The results showed that genes absABDEF are required for amphibactin synthesis. A comparative chemical analysis of V. neptunius wild type and biosynthesis mutants allowed us to identify a mixture of nine amphibactin forms produced by this bacterium. In addition, the gene abtA is predicted to encode the ferri‐amphibactin outer membrane transporter. The prevalence of the amphibactin system in bivalve hemolymph microbiota was also studied. We found that the amphibactin system is widespread in hemolymph microbiota including both commensal and pathogenic bacterial species. Thus, its contribution to bacterial fitness must be more related to environmental persistence than to pathogenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low skeletal muscle index (SMI) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients is associated with poor outcomes. The prognostic impact of SMI changes during consecutive palliative systemic treatments is unknown. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of the phase 3 CAIRO3 study. The CAIRO3 study randomized 557 patients between maintenance capecitabine + bevacizumab (CAP‐B) or observation, after six cycles capecitabine + oxaliplatin + bevacizumab (CAPOX‐B). Upon first disease progression (PD1), CAPOX‐B was reintroduced until second progression (PD2). SMI was assessed by computed tomography (CT) (total 1355 scans). SMI and body mass index (BMI) changes were analyzed for three time‐periods; p1: during initial CAPOX‐B, p2: randomization to PD1, and p3: PD1 to PD2. The association between absolute and change in SMI and BMI (both per 1 standard deviation) during p1‐p3, with PD1, PD2, and survival was studied by Cox regression models. Results: This analysis included 450 of the 557 patients randomized in the CAIRO3 study. Mean SMI decreased during p1: mean −0.6 SMI units [95% CI −1.07;‐0.26] and p3: −2.2 units [−2.7;‐1.8], whereas during p2, SMI increased + 1.2 units [0.8‐1.6]. BMI changes did not reflect changes in SMI. SMI loss during p2 and p3 was significantly associated with shorter survival (HR 1.19 [1.09‐1.35]; 1.54 [1.31‐1.79], respectively). Sarcopenia at PD1 was significantly associated with early PD2 (HR 1.40 [1.10‐1.70]). BMI loss independent of SMI loss was only associated with shorter overall survival during p3 (HR 1.35 [1.14‐1.63]). Conclusions: In mCRC patients, SMI loss during palliative systemic treatment was related with early disease progression and reduced survival. BMI did not reflect changes in SMI and could not identify patients at risk of poor outcome during early treatment lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slim‐floor beams are a well‐known and cost‐effective solution that permits a significant reduction of floor thickness, and are increasingly used in industrial and commercial buildings. Since only their lower flange is exposed to fire, slim‐floor beams may also achieve higher fire resistance, in comparison to other types of composite beams that are not fully embedded in the concrete floor. Simplified models are available in Eurocode 4 Parts 1‐2 to evaluate the temperature distribution for partially encased and non‐encased composite beams. However this standard does not provide any simplified model to evaluate the cross‐sectional temperature field of slim‐floor beams. In this sense, different proposals have been evaluated in recent years in order to provide simplified models for temperature evaluation. The currently available models in the literature have shown their accurate behaviour providing results on the safe side, and are recommended for use in practice. Finally, this work shows that slim‐floor composite beams can provide good performance during a fire event. Specifically, 60 min of standard fire rating can be achieved for load levels lower than 0.5–0.6. Improved behaviour to achieve 90 or 120 min of standard fire exposure may also be reached by using innovative solutions, advanced materials or external protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbiota can play important roles in the development of human immunity and the establishment of immune homeostasis. Lifestyle factors including diet, hygiene, and exposure to viruses or bacteria, and medical interventions with antibiotics or anti‐ulcer medications, regulate phylogenetic variability and the quality of cross talk between innate and adaptive immune cells via mucosal and skin epithelia. More recently, microbiota and their composition have been linked to protective effects for health. Imbalance, however, has been linked to immune‐related diseases such as allergy and cancer, characterized by impaired, or exaggerated immune tolerance, respectively. In this AllergoOncology position paper, we focus on the increasing evidence defining the microbiota composition as a key determinant of immunity and immune tolerance, linked to the risk for the development of allergic and malignant diseases. We discuss novel insights into the role of microbiota in disease and patient responses to treatments in cancer and in allergy. These may highlight opportunities to improve patient outcomes with medical interventions supported through a restored microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Wine colour is an important quality parameter, being the first sensorial attribute evaluated during wine tasting. The perception of wine colour can be different depending on many factors, including the depth of the sample under observation. The main objectives of the present study were to measure the colour of Port wines using CIE L*, a*, b* parameters at different depths with various instrumental techniques (spectrophotometry and colorimetry), and to compare the obtained results with the sensory (visual) perception of colour samples. RESULTS: Representative profiles of lightness (L*), hue (H*) and chroma (C*) at different depths were obtained using Port wine samples from various categories and ages. In general, relatively good correlations between the colorimetric and spectrophotometric methods were obtained for the L* and H* parameters. The results of the sensory tests also showed good correlations between the visually assessed hue scores and the colorimetric measurements of the H* parameter, particularly at the lower depths tested (up to 4.0 mm). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the results indicate that the colorimetric method can be used for estimating wine colour parameters, providing useful information about the colour profile of wines at different depths. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Current available data on cytokeratin 7 (CK7) immunostaining pattern in the clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) spectrum is conflicting. The aim of this study was to assess CK7 immunoreactivity within the spectrum of clear cell renal neoplasms, including clear cell RCC, multicystic renal neoplasm of low malignant potential and clear cell papillary RCC‐like tumours. Methods and results: We analysed two clones of CK7 and two tumour blocks for a total of 75 cases divided into five distinct groups: (i) low‐grade clear cell RCC, (ii) high‐grade clear cell RCC, (iii) multicystic renal neoplasm of low malignant potential, (iv) clear cell RCC with cystic changes and (v) clear cell papillary RCC‐like tumours. We found the highest CK7 reactivity in low‐grade clear cell RCC, multicystic renal neoplasm of low malignant potential and clear cell papillary RCC‐like groups, ranging from 60% to 93%. Conclusions: Our findings show that CK7 immunoreactivity in clear cell RCC is variable, and the extent of staining depends on the grade and architectural growth patterns of the tumours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract: Using an immunocytochemical technique, we have studied in the alpaca brainstem the distribution of immunoreactive structures containing prodynorphin (alpha‐neoendorphin)‐ and pro‐opiomelanocortin (adrenocorticotrophin hormone (18–39) (ACTH), beta‐endorphin (1–27))‐derived peptides. No peptidergic‐immunoreactive cell body was observed. Immunoreactive fibres were widely distributed, although in most of the brainstem nuclei the density of the peptidergic fibres was low or very low. In general, the distribution of the immunoreactive fibres containing the peptides studied was very similar. A close anatomical relationship occurred among the fibres containing alpha‐neoendorphin, ACTH or beta‐endorphin (1–27), suggesting a functional interaction among the three peptides in many of the brainstem nuclei. The number of fibres belonging to the prodynorphin system was higher than that of the pro‐opiomelanocortin system. A moderate/low density of immunoreactive fibres was observed in 65.11% (for alpha‐neoendorphin (1–27)), 18.18% (for ACTH) and 13.95% (for beta‐endorphin) of the brainstem nuclei/tracts. In the alpaca brainstem, a high density of immunoreactive fibres was not observed. The neuroanatomical distribution of the immunoreactive fibres suggests that the peptides studied are involved in auditory, motor, gastric, feeding, vigilance, stress, respiratory and cardiovascular mechanisms, taste response, sleep‐waking cycle and the control of pain transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: X doped graphene surfaces, where X is a heteroatom, are interesting for electrocatalytic applications in fuel cell because active sites are generated on the surface. In this work, a new large size surface is proposed to allow several heteroatoms to be located in positions far from the edge of the graphene sheet. Dispersion terms were introduced in the calculations which are crucial in adsorption processes. Natural charges are analyzed to determine the most active sites. A four‐electron transfer mechanism is assumed. The energies calculated for each step of the mechanism reveal that the P‐doped or the B‐doped surface are the ones that favors the oxygen reduction reaction the most, depending on the media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High molecular weight polypropylene carbonates were prepared by CO2/propylene oxide copolymerization catalyzed by salcy-naphthalene cobalt complexes. The introduction of methyl groups in the ortho position of naphthalene-based salcy ligands and the catalyst loading in the presence of hexane as a co-solvent were crucial to enhance the catalytic performance for the production of polycarbonates of high molecular weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim While fire is recognized as an integral part of the Earth system, the ability of humans to shape fire regimes both spatially and temporally remains poorly understood. Our goals were to identify the extent of fire regimes exhibiting two annual fire seasons and to investigate the environmental correlates of such regimes at the global scale. Location All areas of the globe exhibiting relevant fire activity, at 0.5º spatial resolution. Time period 2002-2012. Major taxa studied (not applicable). Methods The modality of fire seasonality at the global scale was classified using a 10-year record of satellite-derived fire activity and model fitting of circular statistical distributions. The main environmental correlates controlling global fire regimes were then analysed over bimodal and unimodal areas using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Results About 25% of the global land surface with relevant fire activity has two significantly distinct fire seasons per year, with at least one of these seasons occurring under sub-optimal fire weather conditions. In these bimodal areas, population density and the fraction of fires occurring in actively managed land, especially in croplands and pastures, are significantly higher than in neighbouring unimodal areas. Results reveal that through these land-use and management practices humans have a strong influence on global patterns of fire seasonality. Main conclusions We identified a bimodal seasonality pattern, previously unreported at the global scale, and show that it reveals an anthropogenic fingerprint on fire regimes. Insights into where and when fire is actively employed as a land management tool enhance our understanding of the role of fire in the Earth system, and highlight the need to better understand how fire practices may change in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heparin-binding hemagglutinin (HBHA) is a 199 amino acid virulence factor at the envelope of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that contributes to latent tuberculosis. The binding of HBHA to respiratory epithelial cells, which leads to extrapulmonary dissemination of the pathogen, is mediated by cell-surface heparan sulfate (HS). We report the structural characterization of the HBHA/HS complex by NMR spectroscopy. To develop a model for the molecular recognition, the first chemically synthesized uniformly 13C- and 15N-labeled HS octasaccharide and a uniformly 13C- and 15N-labeled form of HBHA were prepared. Residues 180-195 at the C-terminal region of HBHA show large chemical shift perturbation upon association with the octasaccharide. Molecular dynamics simulations conforming to the multidimensional NMR data revealed key electrostatic and even hydrophobic interactions between the binding partners that may aid in the development of agents targeting the binding event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Thrombocytopenia and acute kidney injury (AKI) are common following pediatric cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, the relationship between postoperative nadir platelet counts and AKI has not been investigated in the pediatric population. Our objective was to investigate this relationship and examine independent predictors of AKI. Design After IRB approval, we performed a retrospective review of the institution's medical records and database. Setting: This study was performed at a single institution over a 5-year period. Patients: We included patients <21 years of age undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB. Interventions: Demographics, laboratory, and surgical characteristics were captured, and clinical event rates were recorded. Measurements: Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate platelet and creatinine distributions. T-tests and chi-squared tests were used to compare characteristics among Acute Kidney Injury Network groups. Multivariable logistic and ordinal logistic regression models were used to determine the association of our predictor of interest, postoperative nadir platelet count and AKI. Results Eight hundred and fourteen patients (23% infants and 23% neonates) were included in the analysis. Postoperative platelet counts decreased 48% from baseline reaching a mean nadir value of 150 × 109·l−1 on postoperative day 3. AKI occurred in 37% of patients including 13%, 17%, and 6% with Acute Kidney Injury Network stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The magnitude of nadir platelet counts correlated with the severity of AKI. Independent predictors of severity of AKI include nadir platelet counts, CPB time, Aristotle score, patient weight, intra-operative packed red blood cell transfusion, and having a heart transplant procedure. Conclusions In pediatric open-heart surgery, thrombocytopenia and AKI occur commonly following CPB. Our findings show a strong association between nadir platelet counts and the severity of AKI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The IrIII compound [TpMe2Ir(C6H5)2(N2)] ( 1) [TpMe2 = hydridotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate] reacts with 1-hexene, propene, α-methylstyrene, and 2,3-dimethylbutadiene to yield organometallic products that derive from allylic C-H activations (complexes 3 from 1-hexene, 2 from propene, 5 from α-methylstyrene, and 7, 8, and 9 from 2,3-dimethylbutadiene), in all cases along with organic products formed in catalytic (Ir-induced) dehydrogenative coupling of benzene (the solvent of the reaction) and the corresponding olefin, with the latter also acting as the hydrogen scavenger in each case. Differently, complex 1 reacts with ( E)-β-methylstyrene and cyclohexadiene to yield complex 2 and the known (η4-cyclohexadiene)IrI derivative 6, respectively. Finally, compound 1 reacts under mild conditions with cyclopentadiene and methylcyclopentadiene with the generation of phenyl derivatives 11 and 12 in which the corresponding cyclopentadienyl ligand adopts the η5 coordination and forces the TpMe2 ligand to coordinate in the κ2 mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactions of the gold(I) triflimide complex [Au(NTf2)(PMe2ArDipp2 )] (1) with the gold(I) hydrocarbyl species [AuR(PMe2ArDipp2 )] (2a–2c) enable the isolation of hydrocarbyl-bridged cationic digold complexes with the general composition [Au2(μ-R)(PMe2ArDipp2 )2][NTf2], where ArDipp2 =C6H3-2,6-(C6H3-2,6-iPr2)2 and R=Me (3), CH=CH2 (4), or CŽCH (5). Compound 3 is the first alkyl-bridged digold complex to be reported and features a symmetric [Au(μ- CH3)Au]+ core. Complexes 4 and 5 are the first species of their kind that contain simple, unsubstituted vinyl and acetylide units, respectively. In the series of complexes 3–5, the bridging carbon atom systematically changes its hybridization from sp3 to spsp2 and sp. Concomitant with this change, and owing to variations in the nature of the bonding within the [Au(μ- R)Au]+ unit, there is a gradual decrease in aurophilicity, that is, the strength of the Au···Au bonding interaction decreases. This change is illustrated by a monotonic increase in the Au–Au distance by approximately 0.3 Å from R=CH3 (2.71 Å ) to CH=CH2 (3.07 Å ) and C≡ŽCH (3.31 Å ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stable cationic iridacyclopentenylidene [TpMe2 Ir(CHC(Me)C(Me)CH2(NCMe)]PF6 ( A; TpMe2=hydrotris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate) has been obtained by α-hydride abstraction from the iridacyclopent-2-ene [TpMe2 Ir(CH2C(Me)C(Me)CH2)(NCMe)]. Complex A exhibits Brønsted-Lowry acidity at the IrCH2 and proximal (relative to IrCH2) methyl sites. The coordination of an extra molecule of acetonitrile to the iridium center initiates the reversible isomerization of the chelating carbon chain of A to the monodentate butadienyl ligand of complex [TpMe2Ir(CHC(Me)C(Me)CH2)(NCMe)2]PF6, which is capable to engage in a water-promoted CC coupling with the MeCN co-ligands. The product is an aesthetically appealing bicyclic structure that resembles the hydrocarbon barrelene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been rapid expansion of glycan synthesis, fueled by the recognition that the structural complexity of sugars translates to a myriad of biological functions. Such chemical syntheses involve many challenges, mostly due to the regio- and stereochemical aspects of glycosidic bond formation. One-pot strategies were developed to assist in attaining faster and more economical access to the glycan constructs. In this front, achievements in protecting group manipulation, glycosylation, and combinations of these have been reported. Protecting group manipulations in one pot take advantage of the reaction compatibility of commonly used transformations, many of which occur in high regioselectivity. Sequential glycosylations, on the other hand, rely on leaving group orthogonalities and reactivity tuning, as well as the preactivation technique. Altogether, these approaches offer attractive means to the much needed glycan structures and, consequently, help usher in advances in glycoscience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bis(hydride) dimolybdenum complex, [Mo2(H)2{HC( N-2,6- iPr2C6H3)2}2(thf)2], 2, which possesses a quadruply bonded Mo2II core, undergoes light-induced (365 nm) reductive elimination of H2 and arene coordination in benzene and toluene solutions, with formation of the MoI2 complexes [Mo2{HC( N-2,6- iPr2C6H3)2}2(arene)], 3⋅C6H6 and 3⋅C6H5Me, respectively. The analogous C6H5OMe, p-C6H4Me2, C6H5F, and p-C6H4F2 derivatives have also been prepared by thermal or photochemical methods, which nevertheless employ different Mo2 complex precursors. X-ray crystallography and solution NMR studies demonstrate that the molecule of the arene bridges the molybdenum atoms of the MoI2 core, coordinating to each in an η2 fashion. In solution, the arene rotates fast on the NMR timescale around the Mo2-arene axis. For the substituted aromatic hydrocarbons, the NMR data are consistent with the existence of a major rotamer in which the metal atoms are coordinated to the more electron-rich CC bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The current methods available for screening and detecting hepatocellular carcinoma ( HCC) have insufficient sensitivity and specificity, and only a low percentage of diagnosis of small tumours is based on these assays. Because HCC is usually asymptomatic at potentially curative stages, identification of biomarkers for the early detection of HCC is essential to improve patient survival. Aim The aim of this study was to identify candidate markers for HCC development in the plasma from hepatitis C virus ( HCV)-infected cirrhotic patients. Methods We compared protein expression profiles of plasma samples from HCV-infected cirrhotic patients with and without HCC, using two-dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2-D DIGE) coupled with MALDI- TOF/ TOF mass spectrometry. The 2-D DIGE results were analysed statistically using Decyder™ software, and verified by western blot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( ELISA). Results In the plasma of HCV-infected HCC patients, we observed decreased expression of complement component 9, ficolin-3 ( FCN3), serum amyloid P component ( SAP), fibrinogen-gamma and immunoglobulin gamma-1 chain, and increased expression of vitronectin ( VTN) and galectin-3 binding protein (G3 BP) by DIGE analysis. ELISA confirmed DIGE results for VTN and G3 BP but not for SAP or FCN3 in a larger patient population. Conclusions The proteins VTN and SAP are candidate biomarkers for HCC development in HCV-infected cirrhotic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Stochastic simulation of turbulent inflow fields commonly used in wind turbine load computations is unable to account for contrasting states of atmospheric stability. Flow fields in the stable boundary layer, for instance, have characteristics such as enhanced wind speed and directional shear; these effects can influence loads on utility-scale wind turbines. To investigate these influences, we use large-eddy simulation (LES) to generate an extensive database of high-resolution ( ∼ 10 m), four-dimensional turbulent flow fields. Key atmospheric conditions (e.g., geostrophic wind) and surface conditions (e.g., aerodynamic roughness length) are systematically varied to generate a diverse range of physically realizable atmospheric stabilities. We show that turbine-scale variables (e.g., hub height wind speed, standard deviation of the longitudinal wind speed, wind speed shear, wind directional shear and Richardson number) are strongly interrelated. Thus, we strongly advocate that these variables should not be prescribed as independent degrees of freedom in any synthetic turbulent inflow generator but rather that any turbulence generation procedure should be able to bring about realistic sets of such physically realizable sets of turbine-scale flow variables. We demonstrate the utility of our LES-generated database in estimation of loads on a 5-MW wind turbine model. More importantly, we identify specific turbine-scale flow variables that are responsible for large turbine loads-e.g., wind speed shear is found to have a greater influence on out-of-plane blade bending moments for the turbine studied compared with its influence on other loads such as the tower-top yaw moment and the fore-aft tower base moment. Overall, our study suggests that LES may be effectively used to model inflow fields, to study characteristics of flow fields under various atmospheric stability conditions and to assess turbine loads for conditions that are not typically examined in design standards. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human lung epithelial cells natively offer terminal N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) α(2→6)-linked to galactose (Gal) as binding sites for influenza virus hemagglutinin. N-Glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) in place of Neu5Ac is known to affect hemagglutinin binding in other species. Not normally generated by humans, Neu5Gc may find its way to human cells from dietary sources. To compare their influence in influenza virus infection, six trisaccharides with Neu5Ac or Neu5Gc α(2→6) linked to Gal and with different reducing end sugar units were prepared using one-pot assembly and divergent transformation. The sugar assembly made use of an N-phthaloyl-protected sialyl imidate for chemoselective activation and α-stereoselective coupling with a thiogalactoside. Assessment of cytopathic effect showed that the Neu5Gc-capped trisaccharides inhibited the viral infection better than their Neu5Ac counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cell envelope of mycobacterial species, which include the deadly Mycobacterium tuberculosis, carries unique glycan structures that are crucial for infection and bacterial survival. Notable among these glycans are the structurally-related phosphatidylinositol mannosides (PIMs), lipomannan, and lipoarabinomannan. The immunoactivities of these structures attracted considerable attention from synthetic chemists and biologists alike, who are keen on evaluating vaccine or adjuvant properties. Moreover, PIMs are interesting synthetic targets because of the regio- and stereoselective considerations in generating the inositol and mannosyl cores. In this paper, we summarize the recent efforts in the chemical synthesis of PIMs as well as their analogues. Particular emphasis is given on the challenges associated with the preparation of the chiral myo-inositol derivatives, the regioselective installation of mannosyl residues, and phosphatidylation strategies. The results of the bioevaluation of selected compounds are also briefly described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We previously developed an antibody-avidin fusion protein (ch128.1Av) specific for the human transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1; CD71) to be used as a delivery vector for cancer therapy and showed that ch128.1Av delivers the biotinylated plant toxin saporin-6 into malignant B cells. However, as a result of widespread expression of TfR1, delivery of the toxin to normal cells is a concern. Therefore, we explored the potential of a dual targeted lentiviral-mediated gene therapy strategy to restrict gene expression to malignant B cells. Targeting occurs through the use of ch128.1Av or its parental antibody without avidin (ch128.1) and through transcriptional regulation using an immunoglobulin promoter. Methods Flow cytometry was used to detect the expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) in a panel of cell lines. Cell viability after specific delivery of the therapeutic gene FCU1, a chimeric enzyme consisting of cytosine deaminase genetically fused to uracil phosphoribosyltransferse that converts the 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) prodrug into toxic metabolites, was monitored using the MTS or WST-1 viability assay. Results We found that EGFP was specifically expressed in a panel of human malignant B-cell lines, but not in human malignant T-cell lines. EGFP expression was observed in all cell lines when a ubiquitous promoter was used. Furthermore, we show the decrease of cell viability in malignant plasma cells in the presence of 5-FC and the FCU1 gene. Conclusions The present study demonstrates that gene expression can be restricted to malignant B cells and suggests that this dual targeted gene therapy strategy may help to circumvent the potential side effects of certain TfR1-targeted protein delivery approaches. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background This study was performed to determine the fungal mycoflora in healthy tufted capuchins primates ( Cebus sp) kept in captivity and semicaptivity to allow a more realistic interpretation on the basis of fungi isolated from their skin. Furthermore, we aimed at evaluating the potential risk of infection to humans by fungi perpetuated in the tegument of monkeys of this genus. Methods For the collection of skin material, the carpet method was used, followed by seeding in Sabouraud dextrose agar culture media, Mycosel agar, Dermatophyte Test Medium and Sabouraud agar supplemented with olive oil. Results Seventeen genera of fungi were detected, being three of them isolated only in the captivity animals ( Acremonium - Cephalosporium, Phoma and Trichosporon). The genera of fungi with the higher frequencies were identified in the semicaptivity capuchins ( Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium). Conclusions Many of the genera of fungi identified are potential pathogens for immune-compromised monkeys and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the formation of first parent metallabenzene in a reaction of [TpIr(C2H)

And, to round off …︁ A series of IrIII 5‐membered metallacycles with an IrCH2 bond, react with aq. NH2OH with formation of hydride 6‐membered iridacyclic complexes, which contain an IrNHCH imine functionality (see scheme). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims Neo-adjuvant transarterial therapies are commonly used for patients with HCC in the waiting list for liver transplantation ( LT) to delay tumour progression, however, their effectiveness is not well-established. We studied the effect of pre- LT transarterial therapies on post- LT HCC recurrence, using the explanted liver histology to assess therapeutic efficacy and the predictors of response to these therapies. Methods We included 150 consecutive patients from our prospectively compiled database, listed for liver transplantation using the Milan criteria. Transarterial embolization without chemotherapeutic agents was the transarterial therapy used as standard of care. PVA particles were the embolizing agent of choice. Results Sixty-seven (45%) patients had TAE as bridging therapy to liver transplantation, of which 60 were transplanted after 2001. The majority of patients (36, 54%) had partial tumour necrosis after transarterial therapy, whereas 22 (33%) had complete tumour necrosis and 9 (13%) had no necrosis. HCC post-transplant recurrence was independently associated with no neo-adjuvant transarterial therapy ( OR 5.395, 95% CI 1.289-22.577; P = 0.021) and the total radiological size of HCC nodules ( OR 1.037, 95% CI 1.006-1.069; P = 0.020). Conclusions Pre-transplant TAE with the more permanently occluding PVA particles significantly reduces post-transplant HCC recurrence in patients within the Milan criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactivity of a series of iridiumpyridylidene complexes with the formula [TpMe2Ir(C6H5)2( C(CH)3C(R)NH] ( 1 a- 1 c) towards a variety of substrates, from small molecules, such as H2, O2, carbon oxides, and formaldehyde, to alkenes and alkynes, is described. Most of the observed reactivity is best explained by invoking 16 e− unsaturated [TpMe2Ir(phenyl)(pyridyl)] intermediates, which behave as internal frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs). H2 is heterolytically split to give hydridepyridylidene complexes, whilst CO, CO2, and H2CO provide carbonyl, carbonate, and alkoxide species, respectively. Ethylene and propene form five-membered metallacycles with an IrCH2CH(R)N (R=H, Me) motif, whereas, in contrast, acetylene affords four-membered iridacycles with the IrC(CH2)N moiety. C6H5(CO)H and C6H5CCH react with formation of IrC6H5 and IrCCPh bonds and the concomitant elimination of a molecule of pyridine and benzene, respectively. Finally the reactivity of compounds 1 a- 1 c against O2 is described. Density functional theory calculations that provide theoretical support for these experimental observations are also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bis(ethylene) IrI complex [Tp [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]