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• The nanostructure thin films [Az]TF and [Az/Pd]MNC were fabricated using the spin coating technique. • Characterization and optical properties of the fabricated [Az]TF and [Az/Pd]MNC nanostructured thin film. • Average crystallite sizes are 64.30 nm and 97.65 nm for [Az]TF and [Az/Pd]MNC respectively. • The average crystallite size (D a v), and energy gaps (E I n d i r O p t. and E D i r O p t. ) determined of [Az]TF and [Az/Pd]MNC. • Geometry study of [Az] and [Az/Pd]MNC as an isolated molecule using TD-DFT/DMOl3 and TD-DFT/CASTEP methods. • the optical conductivity ration σ 2 (h ν) / σ 1 (h ν) is 3.03 × 107 at a photon energy of 2.98 eV. Azithromycin (Az) is a novel macrolide antibiotic with better activity against intracellular gramme negative bacteria and has been routinely prescribed for the treatment of respiratory tract infections in addition to its efficacy and safety. Azithromycin behaves as a bidentate ligand for complexation reactions that have an (O, N) atom donor. The goal of this research was to develop an azithromycin-palladium mono nanocomposite [Az/Pd]MNC with suitable physicochemical properties. [Az] loaded Pd (II) nanoparticles (NPs) were produced using a nano-precipitation process in three different drug-to-Pd (II) ratios. The drug to metal ratio affects physicochemical parameters, according to the findings. Nanoscale size particles ranging from 53.86, 94.09 to 76.09, 106.38 nm were attained for [Az]TF and [Az/Pd]MNC respectively, according to the results of XRD examination. Physicochemical properties were affected by drug to metal ratio. At a molecular level, FT-IR spectroscopy revealed observable interactions between the medication and [Pd]NPs. The TEM electron microscopy morphology investigations showed that the formed [Az/Pd]MNC nanoparticles are of sphere shapes microporous as well as needle shapes with an average diameter of about 84.3 nm. For the crystal models and isolated molecules, the materials Studio 7.0 program on TDDFT/DMol3 was used to optimize the molecular structure and perform frequency calculations which, the potential of electrostatic molecular (MEP) in three dimensions for the [Az/Pd]MNC showed that the potential range of Az and the Az-Pd complex is -7.609 × 10−2 V ≥ potential ≥ 7.609 × 10−2 V and -8.201 × 10−2 V ≥ potential ≥ 8.201 × 10−2 V, respectively. The number and character of molecular orbitals can be determined using electron density (ED) as a function of energy. The DFT-Gaussian09W-vibration values are quite similar to the experimental data either in the structure or in the optical properties. In conclusion, the mono nanocomposite of azithromycin palladium preparations showed appropriate physicochemical and optical properties and their new results are subsequently discussed in detail, as well as it is promising for use in solar cell applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly persistent and presents an unmet medical need requiring more effective treatment options. This has spurred intensive efforts to discover novel anti-HCV agents. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), NS5B of HCV, constitutes a selective target for drug discovery due to its absence in human cells; also, it is the centerpiece for viral replication. Here, we synthesized novel pyrrole, pyrrolo[2,3- d ]pyrimidine and pyrrolo[3,2- e ][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3- c ]pyrimidine derivatives. The non-toxic doses of these compounds on Huh 7.5 cell line were determined and their antiviral activity against HCVcc genotype 4a was examined. Compounds 7j , 7f , 5c , 12i and 12f showed significant anti HCV activity. The percent of reduction for the non-toxic doses of 7j , 7f , 5c , 12i and 12f were 90%, 76.7 ± 5.8%, 73.3 ± 5.8%, 70% and 63.3 ± 5.8%, respectively. The activity of these compounds was interpreted by molecular docking against HCV NS5B polymerase enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cell transplantation has emerged as a promising technique for regenerative medicine in cardiovascular therapeutics. However, the results have been less than optimal. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether nicorandil could offer an additional benefit over bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy in isoproterenol-induced myocardial damage and its progression to heart failure in rats. Isoproterenol was injected subcutaneously for 2 consecutive days at doses of 85 and 170 mg/kg/day, respectively. Nicorandil (3 mg/kg/day) was then given orally with or without a single intravenous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell administration. Electrocardiography and echocardiography were recorded 2 weeks after the beginning of treatment. Rats were then sacrificed and the ventricle was isolated for estimation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor and transforming growth factor-beta. Moreover, protein expressions of caspase-3, connexin-43 as well as endothelial and inducible nitric oxide synthases were evaluated. Finally, histological studies of myocardial fibrosis and blood vessel density were performed and cryosections were done for estimation cell homing. Combined nicorandil/bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy provided an additional improvement compared to cell therapy alone toward reducing isoproterenol-induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and inflammation. Notably, combined therapy induced significant increase in angiogenesis and cell homing and prevented isoproterenol-induced changes in contractility and apoptotic markers. In conclusion, combined nicorandil/bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy was superior to cell therapy alone toward preventing isoproterenol-induced heart failure in rats through creation of a supportive environment for mesenchymal stem cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inter-Cell Interference (ICI) from neighboring cells is the major challenge that degrades the performance of Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) cellular mobile systems, particularly for cell edge users. An efficient technique to mitigate ICI is the interference coordination. The most commonly ICI Coordination (ICIC) technique is the Fractional Frequency Reuse (FFR), which effectively mitigates ICI by applying different reuse factors to Users’ Equipments (UEs) situated in different regions in each cell. This paper presents a novel Self-Organized FFR Resource Allocation (SORA) scheme that automatically selects the optimal RA to inner and outer regions of the cell, based on coordination between neighboring evolved NodeBs (eNBs), through a message passing approach over Long Term Evolution (LTE)-X2 interfaces. The performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated using MATLAB and compared with different combinations of RA as well as with frequency reuse-1 and reuse-3 schemes. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme improves the cell-edge performance and achieves high degree of fairness among UEs compared to reference RA schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscular dystrophies (MDs) are a heterogeneous group of genetic and neuromuscular disorders, which result in severe loss of motor ability and skeletal muscle mass and function. Aberrant mechanotransduction and dysregulated-microRNA pathways are often associated with the progression of MD. Here, we hypothesized that dysregulation of mechanosensitive microRNAs (mechanomiRs) in dystrophic skeletal muscle plays a major role in the progression of MD. To test our hypothesis,we performed a genome-wide expression profile of anisotropically regulated mechanomiRs and bioinformatically analyzed their target gene networks. We assessed their functional roles in the advancement of MD using diaphragm muscles from mdm (MD with myositis) mice, an animal model of human tibial MD (titinopathy), and their wild-type littermates. We were able to show that ex vivo anisotropic mechanical stretch significantly alters the miRNA expression profile in diaphragm muscles from WT and mdm mice; as a result, some of the genes associated with MDs are dysregulated in mdm mice due to differential regulation of a distinct set of mechanomiRs. Interestingly, we found a contrasting expression pattern of the highly expressed let-7 family mechanomiRs, let-7e-5p and miR-98-5p, and their target genes associated with the extracellular matrix and TGF-β pathways, respectively, between WT and mdm mice. Gain- and loss-of-function analysis of let-7e-5p in myocytes isolated from the diaphragms ofWTand mdm mice confirmed Col1a1, Col1a2, Col3a1, Col24a1, Col27a1, Itga1, Itga4, Scd1, and Thbs1 as target genes of let-7e-5p. Furthermore, we found that miR-98 negatively regulates myoblast differentiation. Our study therefore introduces additional biological players in the regulation of skeletal muscle structure and myogenesis that may contribute to unexplained disorders of MD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the life cycle of road pavements, transportation agencies spend large funds for maintenance and rehabilitation. Additionally, vehicle operating costs and fuel consumption are extremely associated with the road pavement condition. Moreover, both rehabilitation actions and commuter usage provoke extensive environmental burdens. Thus, many studies investigated the roles of rehabilitation strategies and management systems in exploiting funds judiciously, attenuating user costs, and alleviating environmental burdens. This study summarizes the main findings of the past studies and provides some perspective reviews for compromising the economic and environmental appurtenances provoked during the road pavement life cycle. It is revealed that the management system, rehabilitation strategies, and case context have intertwined and intensive impacts on the provoked economic and environmental burdens. The review is limited to studies published in international journals over the last 20 years. The study fosters only those studies that considered the whole life cycle at the project level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Late radiation-associated dysphagia (late-RAD) is a rare delayed toxicity, in oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) survivors. Prevention of late-RAD is paramount because the functional impairment can be profound and refractory to standard therapies. The objective of this analysis is to identify candidate dosimetric predictors of late-RAD and associated lower cranial neuropathies after radiotherapy (RT) or chemo-RT (CRT) for OPC. Materials and methods: An unmatched retrospective case-control analysis was conducted. Late-RAD cases were identified among OPC patients treated with definitive RT or CRT. Controls were selected with minimum of 6years without symptoms of late-RAD. Dysphagia-aspiration related structures (DARS) and regions of interest containing cranial nerve paths (RCCNPs) were retrospectively contoured. Dose volume histograms were calculated. Non-parametric bivariate associations were analyzed with Bonferroni correction and multiple logistic regression models were fit. Results: Thirty-eight patients were included (12 late-RAD cases, 26 controls). Median latency to late-RAD was 5.8years (range: 4.5-11.3years). Lower cranial neuropathies were present in 10 of 12 late-RAD cases. Mean superior pharyngeal constrictor (SPC) dose was higher in cases relative to controls (median: 70.5 vs. 61.6Gy). Mean SPC dose significantly predicted late-RAD (p=0.036) and related cranial neuropathies (p=0.019). RCCNPs did not significantly predict late-RAD or cranial neuropathies. Conclusions: SPC dose may predict for late-RAD and related lower cranial neuropathies. These data, and those of previous studies that have associated SPC dose with classical dysphagia endpoints, suggest impetus to constrain dose to the SPCs when possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Two manganese(II) and copper(II) complexes of isatin hydrazone were prepared. • They are effective catalysts in oxidation of sulfides by tert -butyl hydroperoxide. • Their antimicrobial and anticancer activities was examined. • They exhibited high anticancer potentials against some human cancer cells. • Their DNA interaction was highly appreciable within spectral tools and viscosity. Two mononuclear manganese(II) and copper(II) complexes were prepared from the coordination of 3,5-di- tert -butyl isatin hydrazone derivative (HLOEt) with either 2 : 1 or 1 : 1 M ratio for Mn(II) or Cu(II) ion, within octahedral and square planar geometries (Mn(LOEt) 2 and CuLOEt), respectively. The catalytic potential of both M(II)-complexes was evaluated in the oxidation of sulfides, i.e. diphenyl sulfide (DPS) and methylphenyl sulfide (MPS), by tert -butyl hydroperoxide (t BuOOH) in acetonitrile. The chemo- and regio-selectivity of the redox system was determined by formation of mono-oxoproducts, diphenyl sufoxide (DPO) and methylphenyl sulfoxide (MPO), with detection of further products of mainly dioxide-product of diphenyl sufone (DPN) and methylphenyl sulfone (MPN). With Mn(LOEt) 2 , the reaction gave 55 and 54% (ee , 79% of S and 21% of R) yields of DPO and MPO, respectively. The catalytic activity of CuLOEt was slightly more progressed than that of Mn(LOEt) 2 , which awarded 52 and 56% (ee , 83% of S and 17% of R) percentages of DPO and MPO, respectively. The higher catalytic reactivity of CuLOEt catalyst was based on their geometrical structures to facilitate the approach of the oxidant and substrate in the redox systems. Their reactivity was studied against some common strains of bacteria and fungi. Moreover, their bio-potential was explored as anticancer reagents versus some human cancer cell lines. Both M(II)-complexes exhibited high biological action against the microorganism and cancer growth. The effect of M(II) ion in thier complexes was examined through the interaction of with ct DNA (calf thymus DNA). Such interaction was tested spectroscopically and via changes in ct DNA viscosity. The reactivity was measured by the binding constant values (K b = 3.19, 13.85 and 15.39 × 108 mol−1 dm3 for HLOEt, Mn(LOEt) 2 and CuLOEt, respectively), which reflects high interaction with ct DNA. Furthermore, the Gibbs' free energy values supported their high potential against ct NDA, with −1.24, −1.36 and −1.37 kJ mol−1, respectively. Furthermore, HLOEt, CuLOEt and Mn(LOEt) 2 were optimized by DFT/B3LYP method under either of 6-31G* of SDD basis set to estimate the essential physical characteristics. On the other hand, in silico approaches were utilized through online software as Swiss-ADME and Pharmacophore beside the molecular docking program. Pharmacokinetic, drug-likeness and the interaction with iso -enzymes were investigated for CuLOEt complex versus receptor tyrosine kinase (2a91, 2src) and human oestrogen receptor (2iok, 4rj3), as well as, liver cancer cells via 6jxt and (PCSK9) Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (4nmx, 4ne9). Only the proteins 4nmx and 4ne9 from liver cancer cells were found to be effectively inhibited by CuLOEt complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to predict the development of hepatic lesions and impairment of function during the development of fetuses (13-, 15-, 17-, and 19-d-old embryos) of diabetic and hypercholesterolemic mothers. Methods: Eighty virgin and fertile male rats (one male/three females) of Wistar strain with an average body weight of 150 to 180 g were used. Mating was carried out, and pregnancy was determined by examining sperm in vaginal smears. Pregnant rats were arranged into three groups; control, diabetic (single intraperitoneal injection [i.p.] of 60 mg streptozotocin/kg) and hyper-cholesterolemic groups (fed on a diet containing 3% cholesterol for 6 wk before conception and throughout gestation) (n = 20). Pregnant rats were sacrificed and 13-, 15-, 17-, and 19-d-old embryos and livers were incised and subjected to histological and transmission electronic microscopical (TEM) investigations, assessments of alkaline phosphatase (Al-Pase) isoenzymes electrophoresis, DNA fragmentation, and comet assay. Flow cytometric analysis of apoptosis and caspases 3 and 9 in the livers of mother rats and their 19-d-old fetuses was determined. Results: Histologic findings of diabetic and hypercholesterolemicmothers revealed apparent damage of hepatocytes, accumulation of lipid-laden cells, and vascular steatosis,while the 13-,15-,17- or 19- d-old fetuses of either diabetic or hypercholesterolemic mothers revealed disorganized hepatic architecture and massive cell damage. TEM of diseased mothers and their fetuses possessed increased incidence of pyknotic hepatocytes with massive vesicuolation of rough endoplasmic reticulum and degeneration of mitochondria. Al-Pase isoenzymes were altered and genomic DNA of both double and single helical structures were markedly damaged, especially in fetuses of maternally diabetic and hypercholesterolemic mothers. Flow cytometry revealed an increase in apoptosis and caspases 3 and 9 in diabetic and hypercholesterolemic mothers and their 19-d-old fetuses. Conclusion: These results suggested that maternal diabetes and hypercholesterolemia predicted early hepatitis and increased apoptosis in mothers and their fetuses as a result of oxidative stress and elevated apoptic markers caspases 3 and 9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Giardia protozoa have been suspected to be of zoonotic transmission, including transmission from companion animals such as pet dogs to humans. Patterns of infection have been previously described for dogs and humans, but such investigations have used different time periods and locations for these two species. Our objective was to describe and compare the overall trend and seasonality of Giardia species infection among dogs and humans in the United States from 2003 through 2009 in an ecological study using public health surveillance data and medical records of pet dogs visiting a large nationwide private veterinary hospital. Canine data were obtained from all dogs visiting Banfield hospitals in the United States with fecal test results for Giardia species, from January 2003 through December 2009. Incidence data of human cases from the same time period were obtained from the CDC. Descriptive time plots, a seasonal trend decomposition (STL) procedure, and seasonal autoregressive moving-average (SARIMA) models were used to assess the temporal characteristics of Giardia infection in the two species. Canine incidence showed a gradual decline from 2003 to 2009 with no significant/distinct regular seasonal component. By contrast, human incidence showed a stable annual rate with a significant regular seasonal cycle, peaking in August and September. Different temporal patterns in human and canine Giardia cases observed in this study suggest that the epidemiological disease processes underlying both series might be different, and Giardia transmission between humans and their companion dogs seems uncommon. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] First report of simultaneous determination of allantoin and glycolic acid. [•] HPLC-UV on Synergi 4U Hydro-RP reversed phase column in simple isocratic mode. [•] Sensitivity, accuracy, precision and stability were determined. [•] Application to the analysis of snail mucus and commercial cosmetic creams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the possibility of characterizing breast cancer by measuring the X-ray scattering profiles of lyophilized excised breast tissue samples. Since X-ray scattering from water-rich tissue is dominated by scattering from water, the removal of water by lyophilization would enhance the characterization process. In the present study, X-ray scattering profiles of 22 normal, 22 malignant and 10 benign breast tissue samples are measured. The cut-offs of scatter diagrams, sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of three characterization parameters (full width at half maximum (FWHM) for the peak at 1.1nm−1, area under curve (AUC), and ratio of 1st to 2nd scattering peak intensities (I 1/I 2%)) are calculated and compared to the data from non-lyophilized samples. Results show increased sensitivity (up to 100%) of the present data on lyophilized breast tissue samples compared to previously reported data for non-lyophilized samples while the specificity (up to 95.4%), diagnostic accuracy (up to 95.4%) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve values (up to 0.9979) for both sets of data are comparable. The present study shows significant differences between normal samples and each of malignant and benign samples. Only subtle differences exist between malignant and benign lyophilized breast tissue samples where FWHM=0.7±0.1 and 0.8±0.3, AUC=1.3±0.2 and 1.4±0.2 and I 1/I 2%=44.9±11.0 and 52.4±7.6 for malignant and benign samples respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankyrin repeat domain protein 2 (ANKRD2) translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm upon myogenic induction. Overexpression of ANKRD2 inhibits C2C12 myoblast differentiation. However, the mechanism by which ANKRD2 inhibits myoblast differentiation is unknown. We demonstrate that the primary myoblasts of mdm (muscular dystrophy with myositis) mice (pMBmdm) overexpress ANKRD2 and ID3 (inhibitor of DNA binding 3) proteins and are unable to differentiate into myotubes upon myogenic induction. Although suppression of either ANKRD2 or ID3 induces myoblast differentiation in mdmmice, overexpression of ANKRD2 and inhibition of ID3 or vice versa is insufficient to inhibit myoblast differentiation in WT mice. We identified that ANKRD2 and ID3 cooperatively inhibit myoblast differentiation by physical interaction. Interestingly, although MyoD activates the Ankrd2 promoter in the skeletal muscles of wild-type mice, SREBP-1 (sterol regulatory element binding protein-1) activates the same promoter in the skeletal muscles of mdm mice, suggesting the differential regulation of Ankrd2. Overall, we uncovered a novel pathway in which SREBP-1/ANKRD2/ID3 activation inhibitsmyoblast differentiation, and we propose that this pathway acts as a critical determinant of the skeletal muscle developmental program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the utility of an event-related beamforming (ERB) algorithm in source localization of interictal discharges. Methods: We analyzed interictal magnetoencephalography data in 35 children with intractable neocortical epilepsy. We used a spatiotemporal beamforming method to estimate the spatial distribution of source power in individual interictal spikes. We compared ERB results to source localization using the equivalent current dipole model and to the seizure onset zones on intracranial EEG. Results: Focal beamformer localization was observed in 66% of patients and multifocal in the remaining 34%. ERB localized within 2cm of the equivalent current dipole cluster centroid in 77% of the patients. ERB localization was concordant with the seizure onset zone on intracranial EEG at the gyral level in 69% of patients. Focal ERB localization area was included in the resection margin in 22/23 patients. However, focal ERB localization was not statistically associated with better surgical outcome. Conclusions: ERB can be used for source localization of interictal spikes and can be predictive of the ictal onset zone in a subset of patients with neocortical epilepsy. Significance: These results support the utility of beamformer source localization as a fast semi-automated method for source localization of interictal spikes and planning the surgical strategy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During the pavement life cycle, construction and rehabilitation activities and vehicle-road interactions provoke extensive environmental, economic, and social impacts. Therefore, decision-making systems are developed to derive optimal construction and rehabilitation plans, alleviate the environmental and economic burdens, and simultaneously increase the social benefits. The past studies have developed management systems with different management approaches, optimization tools, objectives, constraints, prediction models, performance indicators, evaluation techniques, evaluation boundaries, and risk paradigms. This study presents and discusses their diverse perceptions and methodologies for these management system elements. Besides the drawbacks in the adopted perceptions, the study presents the further investigations required to develop more efficient systems that optimally achieve the environmental, economic, and social objectives. The review is limited to studies of the international journals undertaken in the past 20 years, which conferred the project-level management of construction and rehabilitation of flexible pavements. [Display omitted] • Impact of Management system on construction and rehabilitation plans. • Roles of management system objectives, constraints, models, and indicators. • Decision variables of construction and rehabiliatation plans. • Cost subsets and environmental burdens factors fostered in the management system. • Constituting risk assessment in decision-making process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new set of hydronaphthalene-sulfonamides were synthesized in a facile approach. • Some of the synthesized agents reveal potent antimicrobial properties. • The promising candidates showed high level of safety towards the human normal cells. • 2D-QSAR model described the antimicrobial properties observed. In the present work, authors successfully prepared potent antimicrobial agents of new tetrahydronaphthalene-sulfonamide derivatives, derived from new easily synthetic route of 3-methoxy-8-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydronaphthalene-2-sulfonyl chloride 2. Preparation method of this compound has not been published yet, however it is available commercially expensively, which motivated us to innovate new efficient and facile method for its preparation. All the synthesized compounds were tested for in vitro antimicrobial inhibitory activities against a panel of Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacterial pathological strains and Candida Albicans. Compound 2 showed poor activity towards all of the tested pathogenic strains, but it is easily modified and converted from biologically inactive compound to highly active sulfonamide products 5a-f , or moderately active compounds 3a-k. Cytotoxic evaluation of the promising candidates 5d and 5e showed marked safety profile towards the human normal cells. QSAR study for the new compounds was carried out and was compatible with the antimicrobial results. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has recently provided the needed improvements in simulation capabilities that allowed enhancing the design of Darrieus wind turbines. While the performance in operating conditions has increased, poor self-starting is still one of the major drawbacks of these machines. In this study, the aerodynamics of Darrieus-turbines during start-up were investigated using a two-dimensional CFD approach. A fluid-structure interaction simulation was carried out using the ANSYS® FLUENT® solver incorporating the sliding mesh technique and enabling the rotational degree of freedom of the Six Degrees of Freedom (6DOF) solver. The issue of translating a fully-resolved flow field into lumped parameters of use to characterize the instantaneous kinematic properties of the airfoils is tackled by means of two velocity sampling methods recently proposed in the literature, i.e. the 2-PointsAverage and LineAverage methods. The results provide a clear estimation of how much the blade local absolute velocity (V ∞, L) is dependent on the instantaneous tip speed ratio during the first revolutions of the starting rotor. At λ < 1, the blockage of the slow-moving blades causes sudden acceleration/deceleration in V ∞, L. At 1 < λ < 1.5, a significant increase in V ∞, L takes place between 90° < θ < 180° where the blade is moving in the direction of the wind. At λ > 1.5, V ∞, L decreases significantly during the azimuth positions of 210° < θ < 340°, where it falls in the other blades' wake zone. It is also confirmed that the drag force significantly contributes to the Darrieus turbine start-up during the initial cycles, up to λ ≤ 1.5; this in turn corroborates the importance of having reliable data not only for lift coefficient of the airfoil but also of drag coefficient, especially at high angles of attack. Overall, the present study is thought to provide a deeper understanding of the aerodynamics of the Darrieus turbine behaviour during starting that will hopefully enable optimization of these machines. • Investigation on the physics of Darrieus VAWT start-up. • CFD model coupled with 6 DOF solver to model the unsteady start-up process. • Better insight coming from a novel method to sample the angle of attack. • New evaluation of lift and drag contributions during first acceleration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the hygiene performance of a camel (Camelus dromedarius) slaughtering process as carried out with the traditional method in the Sahrawi refugee camps located in southwestern Algeria. The camel slaughtering process in this region differs significantly from that carried out in commercial abattoirs. Slaughtering is performed outdoors in desert areas, and dehiding of the carcass is approached via the dorsoventral route rather than the classic ventrodorsal route. Samples were taken from 10 camel carcasses from three different areas: the hide, the carcass meat immediately after dehiding, and the meat after final cutting. Enterobacteriaceae counts (EC) were enumerated employing conventional laboratory techniques. Carcass meat samples resulted in EC below the detection limit more frequently if the hide samples from the same carcass had also EC counts below the detection limit. Because of the low number of trials, the calculation of statistical significance of the results was not possible. Further experimental research is needed in order to validate the results presented in this study. The comparison of the microbiological hygiene performance between dorsal dehiding and traditional ventral dehiding of slaughtered animals could serve to validate the hypothesis of the potential positive impact of the dorsal dehiding method in carcass meat hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Estimates of the prevalence of intestinal infection of dogs with Giardia spp. in the United States vary widely. Risk factors for infection in a large sample of dogs over an extended period of time have not been well characterized. A national, electronic database of medical records was used to estimate the prevalence and identify risk factors for Giardia spp. infection among dogs visiting Banfield Pet Hospital™ located in 43 states in the United States. The overall prevalence of Giardia spp. Infection was 0.44% (95% CI: 0.43–0.45%) in approximately 2.5 million owned dogs who had a fecal flotation test performed from January 2003 to December 2009. A steady decrease in annual prevalence was observed, from a high of 0.61% in 2003 to 0.27% in 2009. Seasonal increases in prevalence were noted during the winter and summer months. Giardia spp. prevalence was highest in the Mountain region, especially Colorado (2.63%; 95% CI: 2.53–2.73%), and in puppies ≤0.5 year of age (0.63%; 95% CI: 0.61–0.64%). It was lowest for dogs of mixed breeding compared with pure breeds. Infection risk was 25–30% greater in sexually intact dogs compared to spayed and neutered dogs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The synthesis of quinoxaline P,N ligands by monoamination of 2,3-dichloroquinoxaline (1) to 2-amino-3-chloroquinoxalines 2a,b and the subsequent substitution of chlorine by a diphenylphosphanyl group was studied. Whereas the reaction of 2a,b with Ph2PH in the presence (or absence) of catalytic amounts of palladium acetate furnished only minor amounts of the expected ligands in favor of tetraphenyldiphosphane and dechlorinated quinoxalines, the coupling with Ph2PLi in ether provided the novel NH-functional P,N hybrid ligands 3a,b with a quinoxaline scaffold in moderate to good yields. 3a is slightly and 3b somewhat more sensitive to air oxidation, leading to the P-oxides 4a,b. The more reactive 1 forms with Ph2PH only a small amount of 2-chloro-3-diphenylphosphanylquinoxaline 5 and traces of the quinoxaline-bis(phosphane) 6. The main products are 2,2′-bis(quinoxaline) and Ph2PCl, which converts residual Ph2PH into tetraphenyldiphosphane. The coupling with Ph2PLi in diethyl ether, however, gave in a fast reaction high yields of 6, exceeding those of 3a,b, with interfering NH functions. Semi-empirical quantum chemical calculations (PM6) illuminate the background of the air sensitivity of 3a,b, whereas the recently reported 6 is air stable. Preliminary studies for use of the ligands in catalysis with the air-stable 6, showed moderate to good yields in the Pd-catalyzed C–N cross coupling of 2-bromopyridine with mesityl amine. Complex formation was confirmed by isolation of the Pd complex 7. The structure elucidation of the new compounds is based on conclusive NMR data and crystal structure analyses for 2b, 3a, 4a and 4b. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fusions of dendritic cells (DCs) and tumour cells have been shown to induce protective immunity to tumour challenge in animal models, and to represent a promising approach to cancer immunotherapy. The broader clinical application of this approach, however, is potentially constrained by the lack of replicative capacity and limited standardisation of fusion cell preparations. We show here that fusion of ex vivo tumour cells isolated from patients with a range of haematological malignancies with the human B-lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL), HMy2, followed by chemical selection of the hybridomas, generated stable, self-replicating human hybrid cell lines that grew continuously in tissue culture, and survived freeze/thawing cycles. The hybrid cell lines expressed HLA class I and class II molecules, and the major T-cell costimulatory molecules, CD80 and CD86. All but two of 14 hybrid cell lines generated expressed tumour-associated antigens that were not expressed by HMy2 cells, and were therefore derived from the parent tumour cells. The hybrid cell lines stimulated allogeneic T-cell proliferative responses and interferon-gamma release in vitro to a considerably greater degree than their respective parent tumour cells. The enhanced T-cell stimulation was inhibited by CTLA4-Ig fusion protein, and by blocking antibodies to MHC class I and class II molecules. Finally, all of five LCL/tumour hybrid cell lines tested induced tumour antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cell responses in vitro in PBL from healthy, HLA-A2+ individuals, as detected by HLA-A2-peptide pentamer staining and cellular cytotoxicity. These data show that stable hybrid cell lines, with enhanced immunostimulatory properties and potential for therapeutic vaccination, can be generated by in vitro fusion and chemical selection of B-LCL and ex vivo haematological tumour cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: With the purpose of evaluating the ability of Pd(II) complex to interact with DNA molecule as the main biological target, two new complexes [Pd(bpy)(OH2)2] (1) and [Pd(Phenpip)(OH2)2] (2), where (bpy=2,2′-bipyridine; Phenpip=1-phenylpiperazine), have been synthesized and the binding properties of these complexes with CT-DNA were investigated. The intrinsic binding constants (K b) calculated from UV–Vis absorption studies were 3.78×103 M−1 and 4.14×103 M−1 for complexes 1 and 2 respectively. Thermal denaturation has been systematically studied by spectrophotometric method and the calculated ΔT m was nearly 5°C for each complex. All the results suggest an electrostatic and/or groove binding mode for the interaction between the complexes and CT-DNA. The redox behavior of the two complexes in the absence and in the presence of calf thymus DNA has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The cyclic voltammogram exhibits one quasi-reversible redox wave. The change in E 1/2, ΔE p and I pc/I pa supports that the two complexes exhibit strong binding to calf thymus DNA. Further insight into the binding of complexes with CT-DNA has been made by gel electrophoresis, where the binding of complexes is confirmed through decreasing the intensity of DNA bands. The two complexes have been screened for their antimicrobial activities using the disc diffusion method against some selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The activity data showed that both complexes were more active against Gram-negative than Gram-positive bacteria. It may be concluded that the antimicrobial activity of the compounds is related to cell wall structure of bacteria. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Tumour-specific cytotoxic T-cells (CTL) are important anti-cancer immune effectors. Most tumour cells, however, do not stimulate effective anti-tumour immune responses, in vivo or in vitro. To enhance tumour cell immunogenicity, we fused human tumour cells from haematological malignancies with the B-lymphoblastoid cell line (LCL), HMy2, to generate a panel of long-lived, self replicating LCL/tumour hybrid cell lines. The LCL/tumour hybrid cell lines expressed HLA class I and class II molecules, CD80 and CD86, and a range of known tumour associated antigens (TAAs). In vitro stimulation of PBLs from healthy, HLA-A2+ individuals by hybrid cell lines induced tumour antigen-specific CTLs to TAAs, including survivin, MAGE-A1, NY-ESO-1 and WT-1. Individual hybrid cell lines simultaneously induced CTL to multiple TAAs. In vitro stimulation of PBL from 2 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia by autologous LCL/tumour hybrid cell lines induced CTL capable of killing the patient''s own tumour cells. Our data show, for the first time, that hybrid cell lines formed by fusion of HMy2 cells and haematological tumour cells induce tumour- and tumour antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cell responses in vitro. Hybrid cell lines such as those described may represent novel reagents for use in the immunotherapy of haematological malignancies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study two new complexes [Cu(bpy)(Gly)Cl]·2H2O (1) and [Cu(dpa)(Gly)Cl]·2H2O (2) (bpy=2,2′-bipyridine; dpa=2,2′-dipyridylamine, Gly=glycine) have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, TGA, UV–vis and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The binding properties of the complexes with CT-DNA were investigated by electronic absorption spectra. The intrinsic binding constants (K b) calculated from UV–vis absorption studies were 1.84×103 M−1 and 3.1×103 M−1 for complexes 1 and 2 respectively. Thermal denaturation has been systematically studied by spectrophotometric method and the calculated ΔT m was nearly 5°C for each complex. All the results suggest that the interaction modes between the complexes and CT-DNA were electrostatic and/or groove binding. The redox behavior of the two complexes was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Both complexes, in presence and absence of CT-DNA show a quasi-reversible wave corresponding to CuII/CuI redox couple. The change in E 1/2, ΔE and I pc/I pa ascertain the interaction of complexes 1 and 2 with CT-DNA. Further insight into the binding of complexes with CT-DNA has been made by gel electrophoresis, where the binding of complexes is confirmed through decreasing the mobility and intensity of DNA bands. In addition, the antitumor activity of the complexes was tested on two cancer cell lines; the breast cancer (MCF7) and the human hepatocellular carcinoma (HEPG2), as well as one normal cell line; the human normal melanocytes (HFB4). The results showed that complex 1 was more potent antitumor agent than complex 2. The in-vitro antimicrobial activity of the two complexes was carried out using the disc diffusion method against different species of pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The activity data showed that complex 2 was more active in inhibiting the growth of the tested organisms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper introduces a set of coupled viscoplastic constitutive equations for deformation and damage in hot stamping and cold die quenching of AA6082 panel parts. The equation set can be used to predict viscoplastic flow and plasticity-induced damage of AA6082 under hot forming conditions. Deformation and damage depend upon a coupled set of evolving internal state variables, e.g. dislocation density, which in turn is affected by thermally activated and deformation-dependent recrystallisation and recovery. A phenomenological description of damage is derived based on the expected physical scaling with temperature, strain and strain rate. The resulting equations were implemented in the commercial software ABAQUS via the user-defined subroutine VUMAT for carrying out forming process simulations. An experimental programme was designed, and specialised testing facilities developed for calibrating and validating the FE process modelling results. A good agreement between the process simulation and the experimental results has been achieved. This confirms that the physical dependencies in the constitutive equations are correctly formed, and that the equations and FE model can be calibrated and used for hot stamping of AA6082 panel parts. Further, forming process optimisation was carried out using the model to identify the optimal forming parameters for a basic panel part with a circular hole in the middle. The study concludes with a discussion of the potential impact of the constitutive model, experimental characterisation and modelling results on AA6082 panel parts manufacture. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bronchial biopsies of asthmatic patients show a negative correlation between desmin expression in airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) and airway hyperresponsiveness. We previously showed that desmin is an intracellular load-bearing protein, which influences airway compliance, lung recoil, and airway contractile responsiveness (Shardonofsky, F. R., Capetanaki, Y., and Boriek, A. M. (2006) Am. J. Physiol. Lung Cell. Mol. Physiol. 290, L890-L896). These results suggest that desmin may play an important role in ASMC homeostasis. Here, we report that ASMCs of desmin null mice (ASMCsDes-/-) show hypertrophy and up-regulation microRNA-26a (miR-26a). Knockdown of miR-26a in ASMCsDes-/- inhibits hypertrophy, whereas enforced expression of miR-26a in ASMCsDes+/+ induces hypertrophy. We identify that Egr1 (early growth responsive protein-1) activates miR-26a promoter via enhanced phosphorylation of Erk1/2 in ASMCsDes-/-. We show glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) as a target gene of miR-26a. Moreover, induction of ASMCsDes-/- hypertrophy by the Erk-1/2/Egr-1/miR-26a/GSK-3β pathway is consistent in human recombinant ASMCs, which stably suppresses 90% endogenous desmin expression. Overall, our data demonstrate a novel role for desmin as an anti-hypertrophic protein necessary for ASMC homeostasis and identifies desmin as a novel regulator of microRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: There are currently no clinically useful inhibitors against metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), enzymes that confer resistance against a broad spectrum of commonly used antibiotics and that are produced by an increasing number of bacterial pathogens. New pyrrole derivatives were synthesized and assayed for their inhibitory effect on the catalytic activity of the IMP-1 MBL from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Six compounds tested (3a-3c, 5, 7 and 8) show micromolar inhibition constants (K i values range from ∼10 to 30 μM). In silico docking was employed to investigate the binding mode of the strongest inhibitor, 3b, in the active site of IMP-1. Implications for further improvements of binding efficiency and specificity are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: We utilized the high temporal resolution, whole head coverage and novel analysis methodology of magnetoencephalography (MEG) to record the dynamics of cerebellar activation during focal motor seizures. We analyzed ictal MEG data from a four-year old using an event-related beamformer to localize and display ictal changes over the motor cortex and cerebellum. Contralateral activation of the cerebellum was seen 14s after MEG ictal onset over the motor cortex. These findings represent the first indication of ictal activity within the cerebellum in humans, measured non-invasively with MEG. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Pyrrole derivatives Ia–d were prepared and utilized for the preparation of pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives IIa–c, III, IVa–e, V and VIIIa–c; pyrrolo[3,2-e]tetrazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidine VI and pyrrolo[4,3e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidine derivative derivatives VIIa–c. These some newly synthesized compounds were examined for their in vitro antimicrobial activity and in vivo anti-inflammatory. Result indicated that these compounds showed promising anti-inflammatory activity in comparison to ibuprofen (the standard anti-inflammatory drug). The structure–activity relationships (SAR) and anti-inflammatory activities of these compounds are also discussed in this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mechanical loading of muscles by intrinsic muscle activity or passive stretch leads to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (1, 2). The NAD-dependent protein deacetylase SIRT1 is involved in the protection against oxidative stress by enhancing FOXO-driven Sod2 transcription (3-5). In this report, we unravel a mechanism triggered by mechanical stretch of skeletal muscle cells that leads to an EGR1-dependent transcriptional activation of the Sirt1 gene. The resulting transient increase in SIRT1 expression generates an antioxidative response that contributes to reactive oxygen species scavenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Starting from 4-(6,8-dibromo-2-phenyl-4-oxo-(4H)-quinazolin-3-yl)-benzoic acid ethyl ester (II) and its acid hydrazide III, a new series of Schiff bases IV and their cyclized products, thiazolidinones V, oxadiazole VIII, pyrazoles X–XII, pyrroles XIII–XV and other related products were synthesized. These compounds were screened for their anti-bacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Legionella monocytogenes and Bacillus cereus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhimurium) and anti-fungal activity (Candida albicans and Aspergillus flavus) using paper disc diffusion technique. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the compounds were also determined by agar streak dilution method. Among the synthesized compounds 2-(4-(2-phenyl-6,8-dibromo-4-oxo-(4H)quinazolin-3-yl)-N-ethylamido benzoic acid hydrazide VIIa was found to exhibits the most potent in vitro anti-microbial activity with the MICs of 1.56, 3.125, 1.56, 25, 25 and 25 μg/ml against E. coli, S. typhimurium, L. monocytogenes, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and B. cereus respectively. Compound 2-(4-(2-phenyl-6,8-dibromo-4-oxo-(4H)quinazolin-3-yl)-N-methyl thioamido benzoic acid hydrazide VIIc was found to exhibit the most potent in vitro anti-fungal activity with MICs 0.78 and 0.097 μg/ml against C. albicans and A. flavus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The pyrroles Ia–c were used as precursor for the preparation of pyrrolo [2, 3-d] pyrimidine-2 and/or 4 thione derivatives IIa–f. A series of 8-Aryl-pyrrolo [2, 3-d] thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine VI and VII were prepared. Alkylation of the thione compounds in basic medium afforded the pyrrolo [2, 3-d] pyrimidine IV. Also, some 2-amino pyrrolo [2, 3-d]pyrimidines V were obtained. Some newly synthesized compounds were examined for their in vitro anti-inflammatory. Also, all new compounds were examined for their in vivo anti-microbial activity. Several derivatives, showed a promising anti-inflammatory activity in compared to ibuprofen. In this paper, we examine and discuss the structure–activity relationships and anti-inflammatory activities of these compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present article embraces the photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) of three selected cyclohexyl alcohols namely cyclohexylmethanol (1), 2-cyclohexylethanol (2) and 1-cyclohexylethanol (3) using nanoparticles titanium dioxide (TiO2-P25) as a semiconductor photocatalyst in acetonitrile under aerated conditions. The photocatalytic experiments showed moderate conversion ratios (55.2%, 51.8% and 60.3%, respectively). The primary photocatalytic oxidation products are the corresponding aldehydes or ketones and acids. The photocatalytic oxidation products were identified mainly by GC and GC/MS techniques using authentic samples. Formation of electron–hole pair at the surface of the semiconductor nanoparticles followed by oxidation reaction was the suggested mechanism. A first-order kinetic model was observed for the photocatalytic oxidation of the investigated alcohols and the rate constants were calculated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Several neurological symptoms and complications have been described in association with COVID-19, such as anosmia, ageusia, encephalitis and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Here, we review the literature describing SARS-CoV-2-induced neurological manifestations and provide a comprehensive discussion of proposed mechanisms underlying the neurological pathophysiology. First, we analyse the neuroinvasiveness potential of the coronavirus family based on previous SARS-CoV-1 studies. Then, we describe the current evidence on COVID-19-induced nervous tissue damage, including processes behind brain vasculopathy and cytokine storm. We also discuss in detail anosmia and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Finally, we provide a summarised timeline of the main findings in the field. Future perspectives are presented, and suggestions of further investigations to clarify how SARS-COV-2 can affect the CNS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, hierarchical 10 and 20%CeO 2 –Al 2 O 3 nanocomposites with 10 and 20% ceria content as well as pure γ-Al 2 O 3 were synthesized via template-free modified co-precipitation method. The as-synthesized nanocomposites were characterized using several techniques such as BET, XRD, TEM, TGA-DTA, XPS, FE-SEM and AFM. The synthesized nanocomposites were loaded by 5% NiO via ultrasonic assisted route and successfully investigated for cyclohexane dehydrogenation in a catalytic flow system. The XRD results ensured the formation of crystalline cubic γ-alumina and cubic CeO 2 with fluorite structure. Additionally, a solid-solution has been formed in all CeO 2 –Al 2 O 3 nanocomposites with retaining the ceria fluorite structure. Moreover, a large fraction of dispersed CeO 2 phase over the nanocomposites surface accompanied by CeAlO 3 cubic phase was observed. TEM, AFM and FE-SEM technique emphasized the development of totally novel 3-dimensional hierarchical pyramidal structure nanocomposites which newly synthesized with a facile preparation procedure. Finally, the synthesized nano-composites achieved high benzene yield of 98.9 and 99%, at LHSV of 1 h−1 whereas, 100% selectivity was achieved at LHSV of 3 h−1 towards benzene production up to 350 °C of reaction temperature. At higher reaction temperature, a considerable amount of methane is clearly detected in the product gas suggesting the occurrence of cyclohexane hydrogenolysis. The obtained catalytic performance was attributed to the proposed experimental conditions, the high surface area of the synthesized hierarchical structure and the optimized ceria loading to the alumina ratios. The as-synthesized catalysts are highly porous and the interstitial spaces between these layers were found to be in the range of microporous and mesoporous scale. Well-defined three dimensional (3D) hierarchical and pyramidal structures with multiple overlapping layers of a height of 200 nm were investigated. One can be recalled that the hierarchical structure can be easily recognized as the shape of a regular three-dimensional pyramid. [Display omitted] • Modification of co-precipitation technique to produce hierarchical structure. • Templet-free synthesis of novel 3-dimensional hierarchical pyramidal structure CeO 2 –Al 2 O 3 nanocomposites. • Ni loading with uniform particle size and reserve the support pores structure. • The 5%Ni/20% CeO 2 –Al 2 O 3 showed the high activity towards the cyclohexane dehydrogenation. • High activity of the synthesized nanocomposites owing to their electronic structure modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mononuclear Cu and VO-complexes were synthesized and characterized. • VO-complex is little more reactive than Cu-one in 1,2-cyclohexene epoxidation. • As biological agents, both complexes exhibited more inhibiting reactivity compared to free ligand. • Their ct DNA-interaction was studied spectroscopically, and by viscosity-measurements. • The molecular docking investigation studied their interaction with ct DNA, theoretically. Polar mononuclear Cu(II) (CuSSL·H 2 O) and VO(II) (VOSSL·0.5H 2 O) complexes were prepared employing 4-hydroxy-3-((2-(4-methoxybenzoyl)hydrazineylidene)methyl)benzene sodium sulfonate ligand (H 2 SSL) under green conditions. The ligand and its complexes were characterized by various spectroscopic (1H &13C NMR, IR, UV–Visible, and Mass) and analytical tools (elemental analysis (EA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), conductivity, and magnetic moments). The ionic sodium sulfonate group enhanced the catalytic potential of the two complexes, as green catalysts, in the epoxidation of 1,2-cyclohexene using H 2 O 2 under homogeneous reaction conditions. Interestingly, complete epoxidation (100% conversion) of 1,2-cyclohexene was observed using water as an environmentally friendly solvent. The high valent ion (V4+) in the VO(II)-catalyst offered better catalytic efficiency than that of the low valent ion (Cu2+) in the Cu(II) catalyst. The new compounds' biological activity was assessed using different microbes (Staphylococcus aureus , Serratia Marcescence , Escherichia coli , Candida albicans, Aspergillus flavus, and Trichophyton rubrum), as well as various cancer cell lines (HepG2, MCF-7, and HCT-116). Additionally, their antioxidant potential was also examined by DPPH radical scavenging and SOD assays. Moreover, the activity of the new reagents was assessed towards ct DNA-interaction by spectrophotometry and viscosity measurements. Both M(II)-complexes offered higher antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant potential compared to that of their free ligand. Conformational and in-silico studies were carried out to support the newly synthesized complexes' catalytic and biological properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Palladium catalyzed cross-coupling of 3-amino- and 3-acylamido-2-bromopyridines 1a–f with triethyl phosphite allowed the synthesis of 3-amino- and 3-acylamido pyridine-2-phosphonic acid diethyl esters 2a–f, whereas nickel catalysts, although providing access to related anilido-2-phosphonates, proved inactive. Reduction of the aminophosphonate 2a with LiAlH4 afforded 3-amino-2-phosphinopyridine (3a), which was cyclocondensed with dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal (DMFA) via phosphaalkene intermediates 4a to the novel pyrido[b]-anellated 1,3-azaphosphole 5a. Reaction of amidophosphonates 2b–f with LiAlH4 did not result in the expected reductive cyclization, as shown by closely related anilido-2-phosphonates, but led to product mixtures containing N-secondary 3-amino-2-phosphinopyridines 3b–f as the main or major component. The conversion of 3b,d,e with DMFA to 5b,d,e provides first examples of N-substituted pyrido[b]-anellated azaphospholes. Structures were confirmed by multinuclear NMR and X-ray crystallography (for 2c, 3b). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: We studied the task-induced spatiotemporal evolution and characteristics of cortical neural oscillations in children during an auditory word recognition task. Methods: We presented abstract nouns binaurally and recorded the MEG response in eight healthy right-handed children (6–12 years). We calculated the event-related changes in cortical oscillations using a beamformer spatial filter analysis technique (SAM), then transformed each subject''s statistical maps into standard space and used these to make group statistical inferences. Results: Across subjects, the cortical response to words could be divided into at least two phases: an initial event-related synchronization in both the right temporal (100–300 ms, 15–25 Hz; 200–400 ms, 5–15 Hz) and left frontal regions (200–400 ms; 15–25 Hz); followed by a strong left-lateralized event-related desynchronization in the left temporal region (500–700 ms; 5–15 Hz). Conclusions: We found bilateral event-related synchronization followed by later left lateralized event-related desynchronization in language-related cortical areas. These data demonstrate the spatiotemporal time course of neural activation during an auditory word recognition task in a group of children. As well, this demonstrates the utility of SAM analyses to detect subtle sequential task-related neural activations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gelastic seizures are relatively uncommon and rarely observed secondary to frontal lobe lesions. This report presents magnetoencephalography (MEG) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) findings in an adolescent with gelastic seizures secondary to a left anterior cingulate gyrus lesion. Ictal scalp video EEG showed bilateral frontal 4Hz theta discharges. Interictal EEG showed left fronto-temporal spikes or sharp waves. Interictal MEG showed spike sources over bilateral temporal regions. DTI and tractography delineated slightly shifted corpus callosum posterior to the lesion, unaffected uncinate and inferior longitudinal fasciculi. The patient became seizure free for 12 months after surgical excision of a pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma in the left anterior cingulate region. In our patient, MEG and EEG did not localize the deep-seated epileptogenic zone. The combination of DTI and neurophysiologic studies, however, possibly disclosed neuronal connections within the epileptic network and indicated that epileptic discharges propagated via the uncinate fibers from the primary epileptogenic zone in the anterior cingulate region to the mesial temporal region in this case with gelastic seizures secondary to a cingulate lesion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The technology of oil flow in pipelines assisted by its confinement within an annular aqueous section, known as core-flow, has emerged as a viable alternative for the transportation of heavy crude oils. The lubricating effect of the aqueous film leads to reduced equivalent viscosities and, hence, low energy consumption. One of the possible problems associated with this technique is the gradual accumulation of oil on the inner pipeline surfaces, requiring the use of cleaning procedures. This work is aimed at investigating the roles of the oil polar components on the wetting of such surfaces by crude oils through contact angle measurements in systems containing heavy oil/aqueous phase/metallic surfaces. Asphaltenes and naphthenic acids were removed from the crude oil, respectively, by flocculation with alkanes and by washing with alkaline solution. As model metallic surfaces, commercial and galvanized steel were used; and the studied aqueous phases comprised pure water, 1% sodium chloride and sodium meta-silicate solutions. Static contact angles were determined via the placement of an oil droplet under the metallic surface in the presence of an aqueous phase. These measurements revealed small influence of the nature of the metallic surfaces on the observed wettability. Significant effects, however, were observed depending on the presence of asphaltenes and naphthenic acids, whose removal reduced the contact angles from an oil-wet behavior (angles above 145°) to a water-wet situation, with angles smaller than 45° and 80°, respectively. Experiments carried out with aqueous phases containing 1% sodium meta-silicate and sodium chloride revealed contact angles smaller than 60° in most cases, confirming their suitability for the prevention of oil deposition onto these surfaces. Moreover, this study confirms that measurements of static contact angles are useful for screening of formulations and surfaces used in oil transportation prior to flow tests. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Thermolysis of benzoin benzene-p-sulfonylhydrazone I in nitrogen atmosphere at 200°C leads to the formation of numerous products among which the following were identified: ammonia, benzoic acid, benzophenone, benzil, aniline, diphenyl acetylene, deoxybenzoin, N-benzylbenzamide, diphenyldisulfide, diphenylthiosulfone, S-phenylthiobenzoate, benzenesulfonamide, 2-phenylindole, 2,3,4,5-tetraphenylfuran, 2,4,5-triphenylimidazole, and 2,4,5-triphenyloxazole. Similarly, thermolysis of I in the presence of isoquinoline as a radical trap under the same conditions gave 1-phenylisoquioline in addition to the previously mentioned products. Analogous results were also obtained for thermolysis of benzoin toluene-p-sulfonylhydrazone II. The formation of such products which implies the homolysis of different bonds in the benzoin derivatives followed by reaction of the so formed radicals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

With the human genome sequence in hand, emphasis is now focusing on genetic diversity and its role in susceptibility to disease. In the Sudan, different tribes share the same exposure to Leishmania donovani, but only certain tribes are at risk of clinical disease. This suggests that host genotype is important, with genes controlling innate and adaptive immunity likely to be involved. Using multicase families, linkage and allelic association has been demonstrated between clinical visceral leishmaniasis (VL) and the innate resistance gene SLC11A1 (formerly NRAMP1), which regulates macrophage activation. Polymorphism at IL4 is also associated with underlying susceptibility to VL, whereas IFNGR1 is associated specifically with post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A new semi-empirical model has been developed to predict particulate collection efficiency in low-to-high temperature gas cyclone separators. It has been tested at 20 and 600°C using various flow rates and dust loadings. The model is particularly suitable for efficiency predictions in cyclones attached to fluidized bed gasifiers using rice husk as feedstock, where de-volatilization, which occurs in the temperature range 300-600°C, is the major contributor to gasification of the feedstock, which is 70-90% volatile matter. To develop the particulate collection model, the cylinder-on-cone reverse-flow gas cyclone separator was geometrically modeled as an equivalent right circular cylinder, which was then divided into three zones, reflecting the main hydrodynamically distinct flow zones that result after dust-laden gas enters the device, i.e. inlet, outer (free) vortex and inner (forced) vortex zones. Mass balance computations were then carried out using residence time as the independent parameter, in order to determine the dust loadings in the various zones and subsequently compute the capture efficiency of each particle size in the polydisperse flow. This approach contrasts with ones in which the cyclone is either viewed as one cylindrical region or else, when multiple zones are employed, the axial location in the cyclone, as opposed to residence time, is utilized as the independent variable in mass balance computations. The effects of cyclone inlet temperature, gas flow rate and dust loading on particulate collection efficiency are incorporated in the model equations, along with the cyclone's geometric parameters. In validation of the model, comparisons were made with widely used models in the literature, the new model being shown to produce predictions of grade efficiencies in closer agreement with the experimental data than those by the other models. Thus, the current model constitutes a significant contribution to current knowledge of the particulate capture process in gas cyclone separators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic oxidation of the title compounds 1 and 2 in nonaqueous oxygen saturated TiO2 suspension was carried out. The corresponding ketones were formed in a high yield, in addition to minor amount of the corresponding hydrocarbon and other decomposition products. Interestingly, photocatalytic oxidation of the parent fluorene (3) afforeded fluorenone under the same conditions. Also, compound 4 as an acyclic simulant gave the corresponding ketone and hydrocarbon. Furthermore, the effect of solvent polarity has been tested.An electron–hole pair generated on the irradiated TiO2 surface is suggested for the semiconductor-mediated photocatalysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper presents a robust controller design based on Q-parameterization theory for the automatic generation control problem of a power system. This controller is used in order to achieve both robust stability and good dynamic performance against the variation of system parameters. In the Q-parameterization method, the set of all stabilizing controllers of the power system is characterized by a free parameter Q. This free parameter is chosen to satisfy robust stability and other design requirements. Simulation results have confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed controller. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photocatalytic oxidation of selected aryl alcohols (1–7) has been carried out by using anatase titanium dioxide catalyst. The main oxidation products were the corresponding aldehydes or ketones and acids, in addition to unidentified minor compounds. Kinetic studies revealed a second-order reaction rate for benzyl alcohol, as a model alcohol, photocatalytic oxidation. The suggested mechanism envisages electron–hole pair formation on the catalyst surface followed by oxidation–reduction reactions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This work explores the use of supercritical CO2 and ethane, both acceptable and non-contaminating solvents for food products, in the recovery of cocoa butter from Theobroma cacao cocoa beans. Continuos extractions were performed using a high pressure apparatus. Extractions were first performed using processed cocoa butter to assess and compare the extraction efficiencies of CO2 and ethane. These extractions were carried out at 323.2 K, pressures of 15.2 and 24.8 MPa, and CO2 and ethane flow rates of 1.3 and 0.9 g min−1, respectively. Extraction yields of cocoa butter using ethane were an order of magnitude higher than obtained with CO2. Extractions to explore the capacity of supercritical fluids in the extraction of cocoa butter from cocoa beans were subsequently performed with ethane at 323.2 and 343.2 K, pressures of 15.2, 24.8 and 28.3 MPa and ethane flow rate of 0.9 g min−1. The results revealed a pronounced effect of pressure on the extraction yield at all temperatures investigated. Extraction curves showed a retrograde behavior for the two temperatures in the whole pressure range. This behavior suggests a range of possibilities for the extraction of cocoa butter from cocoa beans. Cocoa butter fractions with varying fatty acids concentrations were also obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• VO2+, ZrO2+ and Zn2+-complexes were synthesized from the asymmetrical tetradentate imine ligand. • The catalytic differentiation between VO2+-complex and the new ZrO2+- and Zn2+-complexes was studied in the 1,2-cyclohexene (ep)oxidation. • Various parameters were investigated (temperature, time, solvent, oxidant type and catalyst amount), with theoretical evaluation of the mechanism. • Some cyclic and acyclic alkenes were studied in (ep)oxidation reactions. • The catalytic reactivity VO-, ZrO- and Zn-complexes was tested in the 2-aminothiophene oxidation by H 2 O 2 with detection of the most chemoselectives. Three mononuclear di-valent VO2+, ZrO2+ and Zn2+-complexes (VOL, ZrOL and ZnL, respectively) were prepared from asymmetrical di-basic tetradentate di-imine ligand (6,6′-((1 E ,1′ E)-((4-chloro-1,2-phenylene)bis(azaneylylidene))bis(methaneylylidene))bis(2-ethoxy phenol, H 2 L). To confirm the M-complexes compositions, various spectral tools (FT-IR, EI/M and UV-Vis. spectra), molar conductance, thermal, elemental analysis and pXRD analyses were accomplished. Distorted octahedral geometry was confirmed for ZnL and square pyramidal geometry was elucidated for VOL and ZrOL. Their catalytic efficiency was investigated in the epoxidation of 1,2-cyclohexene by H 2 O 2. They exhibited moderate to excellent catalytic control. The effect of temperature, time, solvent, type of oxidant and amount of catalysts were studied in order to determine the optimal catalytic atmosphere. The catalysts screening for epoxidation of alternative cyclic and acyclic olefins at optimization was reported. The variation of central metal ions from high to low valents (Zr4+, V4+and Zn2+ ions) and their capability for oxidation control their catalytic potential are the most effective aspects in the epoxidation reaction. The catalytic oxidation of 2-aminothiophene within VOL, ZrOL and ZnL, as a first trial, by H 2 O 2 was examined. Also, QSAR parameters and DFT studies were performed to predict the catalytic properties of VOL, ZrOL and ZnL, to assert on chosen application. Effective surface properties of VO(II) complex were promoted for progressing its catalytic activity, which already happened. The catalytic mechanism was supported by the sequenced stability difference between proposed intermediates based on the difference in their recorded formation energy from the DFT study. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mononuclear Ni-, Cu- and VO-complexes from aroylhydrazone were synthesized. • VO-catalyst has little more catalytic potential in 1,2-cyclooctene epoxidation. • Inhibiting biological action of all complexes was more than that of free ligand. • Their ct DNA-interaction was studied spectroscopically and by viscosity-measurements. • Molecular docking studies support the nature of ct DNA interactions. Three novel mononuclear complexes of Ni2+, Cu2+, and VO2+ ions (NiLnBu, CuLnBu, and VOLnBu, respectively) were synthesized by the chelation of a di-basic tridentate nicotinohydazone ligand (H 2 LnBu) with M2+ ions in 1 : 1 M ratios. The ligand and its M-pincer chelates were identified and characterized using various spectroscopic tools included NMR, IR, UV–Vis. and EI-Mass spectra, beside, EI elemental analyses, and thermogravimetric analyses. The catalytic potential of NiLnBu, CuLnBu, and VOLnBu was investigated in 1,2-cyclooctene epoxidation using H 2 O 2 , as an efficient oxidant. Various parameters, including solvent, temperature, catalyst loading, and oxidant were investigated to identify the optimized reaction conditions. The central metal ion in their M-chelate catalysts revealed variation in the catalytic performance. The high valent metal ion (V4+) catalyst (VOLnBu) exhibited slightly better catalytic potential (96% yield) over the low valent metal ions (Ni2+ and Cu2+) complex catalysts (NiLnBu 91% yield and CuLnBu 93% yield, respectively). In addition to, the biological potential of free ligand H 2 LnBu and its complexes were examined in the ct DNA interaction process via UV–Vis. spectroscopy and viscosity measurements with the aid of distinguished docking studies. The obtained results showed that M-chelates possess effective biological activities with DNA, including the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer effects against different biological targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]