bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk stratification for the primary prevention of arrhythmic sudden cardiac death in post‐infarction patients
Authors: Arsenos P. , Sideris S. , Gatzoulis K. A.
Published: September 2016

Current trends on Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) Risk Stratification complementary to the conventional markers that were presented in Part I, are Cardiac Magnetic Resonance that detects and quantifies the post‐infarct tissue heterogeneity and the invasive method of Programmed Ventricular Stimulation on Electrophysiological study that reveals the vulnerable and inducible myocardial substrate. While the first generation of Risk Stratification trials examined one simple prognostic marker each time, the second generation of trials investigated in past combinations of SCD prediction markers and prognostic models reflecting different arrhythmogenesis mechanisms. The third generation of trials currently utilizes Risk Stratification strategies to indentify high‐risk patients before an ICD prophylactic implantation connecting the Risk Stratification process with the ICD therapy. Intensive research on SCD is also nowadays directed to the unexplored era of patients with a Preserved Ejection Fraction and to the era of early post‐myocardial infarction period. Both these subgroup patients are not protected by the current ICDs implantation guidelines because of gap in evidence. Research is going to fill in this gap.

Answer questions and earn CME: https://wileyhealthlearning.com/Activity2/4469470/Activity.aspx
Invasive management of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Vlachos K. , Letsas K. P. , Efremidis M.
Published: September 2016

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, affects 1% of the general population with increased incidence in the elderly population and is an important contributor to population morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the current invasive management of AF. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the cornerstone of current ablation techniques for the treatment of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite proven PVI, a subset of patients still experience recurrent arrhythmia, mostly due to a higher prevalence of non‐PV triggers. PVI is associated with worse arrhythmia‐free survival in patients with persistent AF than those with paroxysmal AF. Accumulating data have shown that elimination of atrial fibrillation 9 (AF) sources (rotors or rotational activity, drivers, electrograms with continuous activity) should be the goal in persistent AF ablation. Pulmonary vein isolation, linear lesions, and complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAEs) ablation have shown limited efficacy in patients with persistent AF. A combined approach using voltage, CFAEs, and dominant frequency (DF) mapping may be helpful for the identification of AF sources and subsequent focal substrate modification. The fibrillatory activity is maintained by intramural reentry centered on fibrotic patches. Voltage mapping may assist in the identification of fibrotic areas. Stable rotors display the higher DF and possibly drive AF. Furthermore, the single rotor is usually consistent with organized AF electrograms without fractionation. It is therefore quite possible that rotors are located at relatively “healthy islands” within the patchy fibrosis. This is supported by the fact that high DF sites have been negatively correlated with the amount of fibrosis. CFAEs are located in areas adjacent to high DF. In conclusion, patchy fibrotic areas displaying the maximum DF along with high organization index and the lower fractionation index are potential targets of ablation. Prospective studies are required to validate the efficacy of substrate modification in left atrial ablation outcomes.

Answer questions and earn CME: https://wileyhealthlearning.com/Activity2/4469458/Activity.aspx
Performance Enhancement of Reduced Graphene Oxide‐Modified Carbon Electrodes for Vanadium Redox‐Flow Systems
Authors: Chakrabarti Barun , Nir Dan , Yufit Vladimir , Tariq Farid , Rubio‐Garcia J. , Maher Robert , Kucernak Anthony , Aravind P.V. , Brandon Nigel
Published: September 2016

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) suspended in an N,N′‐dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent underwent electrophoretic deposition (EPD) on carbon paper (CP) electrodes. X‐ray computed micro‐tomography (XMT) indicates a 24 % increase in the specific surface area of CP modified with rGO in comparison to the untreated sample. Furthermore, XMT confirms that the deposition also penetrates into the substrate. Raman analysis shows that the rGO deposited is more amorphous than the CP electrode. A significant reduction in charge‐transfer resistance of the VO2+/VO2+ reaction is also observed (from impedance measurements) in modified samples in comparison to untreated CP electrodes.
Intermolecular Amination of Unactivated C(sp3)−H Bonds with Cyclic Alkylamines: Formation of C(sp3)−N Bonds through Copper/Oxygen‐Mediated C(sp3)−H/N−H Activation
Authors: Gou Quan , Yang Yu‐Wen , Liu Zi‐Ning , Qin Jun
Published: September 2016

The first example of intermolecular amination of unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds by cyclic alkylamines mediated by Cu(OAc)2/O2 is reported. This method avoids the use of benzoyloxyamines as the aminating reagent, which are normally prepared from alkylamines in extra steps. A variety of unnatural β2, 2‐amino acid analogues are synthesized by this simple and efficient procedure. This approach offers a solution to the previous unmet challenge of C(sp3)−H/N−H activation for the formation of C(sp3)−N bonds.
Stable Red‐Emissive Cationic Dithienotropylium Dyes
Authors: Asai Kengo , Fukazawa Aiko , Yamaguchi Shigehiro
Published: September 2016

A series of thiophene‐fused tropylium ions, containing various electron‐donating amino groups at the terminal positions, was synthesized. The fusion of the thiophene rings, as well as the presence of the terminal amino groups endows the cationic tropylium ion with excellent stability and high pKR+ values. X‐ray crystallographic analysis of these compounds revealed a pronounced quinoidal character for the amino‐substituted dithienotropylium skeletons. These compounds exhibit attractive photophysical properties such as strong absorption in the visible region combined with red fluorescence. Theoretical calculations suggested that the 3,3′‐bithiophene substructure should be crucial for attaining these photophysical properties.
Corticosterone: a costly mediator of signal honesty in sand lizards
Authors: Lindsay Willow R. , Wapstra Erik , Silverin Bengt , Olsson Mats
Published: September 2016

The mechanisms underlying honest signal expression remain elusive and may involve the integration of social and physiological costs. Corticosterone is a socially modulated metabolic hormone that mediates energy investment and behavior and may therefore function to deter dishonest signal expression. We examined the relationship between corticosterone and green badge coloration in male sand lizards (Lacerta agilis), hypothesizing that physiological and behavioral costs resulting from elevated baseline glucocorticoids function in maintenance of honest signal expression. We found that large‐badged males had higher corticosterone titer, with this relationship apparent at the end of the season and absent early in the season. Large‐badged males also suffered higher ectoparasite load (number of tick nymphs), despite being in better condition than small‐badged males. Ectoparasite load was positively related to corticosterone titer early in the season at the time of badge formation. High‐condition individuals had lower corticosterone and lower numbers of ectoparasites than low‐condition individuals, suggestive of conditional variation in ability to withstand costs of corticosterone. We found an opposing negative relationship between corticosterone titer and endoparasite load. Corticosterone titer was also negatively associated with male mobility, a fitness‐determining behavior in this species. Because badge size is involved in mediating agonistic social interactions in this species, our results suggest that badge‐dependent variation in corticosterone is likely reflective of variation in social conditions experienced over the course of the season. Our results implicate corticosterone in maintenance of signal honesty, both early in the season through enforcement of physiological costs (ectoparasite load) and during the season through behavioral costs (male mobility). We propose that socially modulated variation in corticosterone critically functions in mediation of signal honesty without requiring a direct role for corticosterone in trait expression.
Prothonotary warbler nestling growth and condition in response to variation in aquatic and terrestrial prey availability
Authors: Dodson Jenna C. , Moy Nicholas J. , Bulluck Lesley P.
Published: September 2016

Aquatic prey subsidies entering terrestrial habitats are well documented, but little is known about the degree to which these resources provide fitness benefits to riparian consumers. Riparian species take advantage of seasonal pulses of both terrestrial and aquatic prey, although aquatic resources are often overlooked in studies of how diet influences the reproductive ecology of these organisms. Ideally, the timing of resource pulses should occur at the time of highest reproductive demand. This study investigates the availability of aquatic (mayfly) and terrestrial (caterpillar) prey resources as well as the nestling diet of the prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria citrea) at two sites along the lower James River in Virginia during the 2014 breeding season. We found large differences in availability of prey items between the two sites, with one having significantly higher mayfly availability. Nestling diet was generally reflective of prey availability, and nestlings had faster mean growth rates at the site with higher aquatic prey availability. Terrestrial prey were fed more readily at the site with lower aquatic prey availability, and at this site, nestlings fed mayflies had higher mean growth rates than nestlings fed only terrestrial prey. Our results suggest that aquatic subsidies are an important resource for nestling birds and are crucial to understanding the breeding ecology of riparian species.
Are U.S. national parks in the Upper Midwest acting as refugia? Inside vs. outside park disturbance regimes
Authors: Kirschbaum Alan A. , Pfaff Eric , Gafvert Ulf B.
Published: September 2016

Landscape disturbances such as forest harvest, blowdowns, fire, and development activities create patches on the landscape that modify the structure and integrity of ecosystems. Understanding the agents of change, where they occur, and how much of the landscape they are affecting will assist resource managers in making difficult decisions. To fulfill this goal, the National Park Service implemented a long‐term monitoring program to quantify landscape dynamics across 1.5 million ha within and adjacent to eight national parks in the Upper Midwest United States using an automated satellite‐based change detection program called LandTrendr (Landsat‐based detection of trends in disturbance and recovery). The disturbance agents detected inside parks included beaver, blowdown, development, fire, flooding, insect/disease, and forest harvest. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore had the largest percentage of area affected inside a park (11.83%, 1.96% per yr), and Isle Royal National Park had the lowest percentage of land affected (0.03%, 0.05% per yr). Tree defoliation due to insect/disease affected the largest percentage of land inside parks (1.56%, or 0.26% per yr) but did not result in tree mortality. Adjacent to parks, disturbance agents detected included agriculture, beaver, blowdown, development, insect/disease, fire, flooding, and forest harvest. Lands adjacent to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore experienced the highest rate of disturbance (8.75%, 1.45% per yr), largely due to forest harvests. The lands adjacent to the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area experienced the lowest percentage of change (0.62%, 0.10% per yr), with development activities being responsible for most of the change. Forest harvesting was the major change agent outside six of the eight parks, an indication of how important the wood products industry is in the region and the level to which this region is forested. These national parks are acting as integral buffers from adjacent lands that either do not have the ability or lack the capacity to allow the ecosystem to function without intensive management efforts.
Lumican negatively controls the pathogenicity of murine encephalitic TH17 cells
Authors: Castillo Eliseo F. , Zheng Handong , Van Cabanlong Christian , Dong Fei , Luo Yan , Yang Yi , Liu Meilian , Kao Winston W.‐Y. , Yang Xuexian O.
Published: September 2016

TH17 cells play an essential role in the development of both human multiple sclerosis and animal experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Nevertheless, it is not well understood how the pathogenicity of TH17 cells is controlled in the autoimmune neuroinflammation. In vitro, we found Lumican (Lum), an extracellular matrix (ECM) protein, is selectively expressed by TH17 cells among tested murine TH subsets. Lum deficiency leads to earlier onset and enhanced severity of EAE. This enhanced disease in Lum‐deficient mice is associated with increased production of IL‐17 and IL‐21 and decreased TH17 cell apoptosis. Dysregulation in cytokine production appears to be specific to TH17 cells as TH1 and TH2 cell polarization and/or cytokine production were unaltered. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein specific TH17 cells derived from Lum‐deficient mice led to earlier onset and increased severity of disease compared to controls highlighting a TH17‐cell‐intrinsic effect of Lum. Taken together, our results suggest that Lum negatively regulates encephalitic TH17 cells, implicating a potential therapeutic pathway in TH17 cell mediated autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Isomerization‐hydroboration‐oxidation strategy: Access to long chain AB‐ and AA‐type oleyl based monomers and polymers thereof
Authors: Sane Prakash , Lebarbé Thomas , Grau Etienne , Cramail Henri
Published: September 2016

A strategy to convert by isomerization‐hydroboration‐oxidation reaction the internal double bond of oleic acid to a terminal alcohol function, leading to linear long‐chain α,ω‐difunctional substrates has been investigated. Using this strategy, oleic acid‐based AB‐ and AA‐monomers were prepared and characterized by FTIR‐ATR and NMR spectroscopy. Thermoplastic aliphatic linear polyesters, polycarbonates, and polyurethanes were then synthesized by reacting the so‐formed bio‐based monomers via polycondensation in bulk, using 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) as an organocatalyst. Thus, starting from easily available bio‐based starting compound, the synthesis of linear long methylene chain aliphatic polyesters, polycarbonates, and polyurethanes (by isocyanate free route) is reported. The structural and thermal characterizations of the synthesized polymers were performed by means of NMR, SEC, DSC, and TGA experiments.

Practical applications: The objective of the work is to obtain long methylene sequence alpha, omega difunctional fatty acid‐based substrates that can be used as original monomers.

A strategy to convert by isomerization‐hydroboration‐oxidation reaction the internal double bond of oleic acid to a terminal alcohol function, leading to linear long‐chain α,ω‐difunctional substrates is described.
Solid‐Phase Synthesis of the Peptaibol Alamethicin U‐22324 by Using a Double‐Linker Strategy
Authors: Siow Andrew , Hung Kuo‐yuan , Harris Paul W. R. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: September 2016

The facile Fmoc (Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl) solid‐phase synthesis of the α‐helical‐channel‐forming peptaibol alamethicin U‐22324 is described. A late‐stage reduction by using a new double‐linker method was used to introduce the C‐terminal alcohol. Furthermore, we also report the synthesis of an alamethicin analogue with a C‐terminal carboxylic acid.
Assessment of seismic damage of thin and lightly reinforced concrete walls using fractal dimension of cracking
Authors: Carrillo Julian , Avila William
Published: September 2016

Length, maximum width, and residual width of cracks are key indicators of structural damage. However, pattern and propagation of cracks on the affected structural component should be also considered. In addition, damage evaluation based on visual inspection is a subjective and capricious procedure because the damage assessment relies on the expertise and judgment of the inspector engineer. In order to assess a rapid and reliable evaluation approach of seismic damage, pattern and propagation of cracks observed in thin and lightly reinforced concrete walls for low‐rise housing subjected to seismic demands are evaluated in this study by means of fractal dimension of cracking pattern. The proposed parameters are based on the results of an experimental program that comprised 39 low‐rise RC wall specimens having typical variables of this type of housing, such as low compressive strengths of concrete, thin walls, low axial loads, low reinforcement ratios, and web shear reinforcement made of deformed bars and welded‐wire meshes. A statistical analysis is carried out for computing values of fractal dimension associated to cracking patterns at key damage conditions. Recommendations of this study can help the inspector in estimating the current limit state or performance level of the wall and the story‐drift ratio experienced by the wall during shaking. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of cooking and preservation on nutritional and phytochemical composition of the mushroom Amanita zambiana
Authors: Reid Tsungai , Munyanyi Merjury , Mduluza Takafira
Published: September 2016

The effect of different cooking and preservation methods on the nutritional and phytochemical composition of the mushroom, Amanita zambiana, was investigated. Fresh mushrooms were boiled in water, fried, or microwaved. In addition, fresh mushrooms were either air‐dried for 7 days or frozen at −20°C for 14 days. The protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and phenolic content of the treated mushrooms were measured and compared to the fresh mushroom contents. Frying increased the protein (2.01% ± 0.2% [fresh mushroom] to 2.23% ± 0.09%), lipid (14.68% ± 0.9% to 15.56% ± 0.34%), and carbohydrate (0.89% ± 0.01% to 2.69% ± 0.03%) content, while microwaving increased the protein (2.01% ± 0.2% to 3.64% ± 0.08%) and carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 2.26% ± 0.09%). Boiling only increased the carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 1.71% ± 0.05%) of the mushroom and significantly decreased (p < .05) the phenolic content (8.77 ± 0.1 to 1.46 ± 0.2 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g mushroom). Drying resulted in significant increase (p < .05) in protein (2.01 ± 0.2% to 24.36 ± 0.09%), carbohydrate (0.89% ± 0.01% to 58.67% ± 3.29%), and phenolic contents (8.77 ± 0.1 to 119.8 ± 0.7 mg GAE/g mushroom), while freezing only increased the carbohydrate content (0.89% ± 0.01% to 1.77% ± 0.03%). From the three cooking methods studied, frying is recommended as the most effective cooking procedure in retaining or enhancing the mushroom nutrients, while drying is a better preservation method than freezing.
Income and Technology as Drivers of Australian Healthcare Expenditures
Authors: You Xiaohui , Okunade Albert A.
Published: September 2016

The roles of income and technology as the major determinants of aggregate healthcare expenditure (HEXP) continue to interest economists and health policy researchers. Concepts and measures of medical technologies remain complex; however, income (on the demand side) and technology (on the supply side) are important drivers of HEXP. This paper presents analysis of Australia's HEXP, using time‐series econometrics modeling techniques applied to 1971–2011 annual aggregate data. Our work fills two important gaps in the literature. First, we model the determinants of Australia's HEXP using the latest and longest available data series. Second, this novel study investigates several alternative technology proxies (input and output measures), including economy‐wide research and development expenditures, hospital research expenditures, mortality rate, and two technology indexes based on medical devices. We then apply the residual component method and the technology proxy approach to quantify the technology effects on HEXP. Our empirical results suggest that Australian aggregate healthcare is a normal good and a technical necessity with the income elasticity estimates ranging from 0.51 to 0.97, depending on the model. The estimated technology effects on HEXP falling in the 0.30–0.35 range and mimicking those in the literature using the US data, reinforce the global spread of healthcare technology. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Health Care Expenditure and Income: A Global Perspective
Authors: Baltagi Badi H. , Lagravinese Raffaele , Moscone Francesco , Tosetti Elisa
Published: September 2016

This paper investigates the long‐run economic relationship between healthcare expenditure and income in the world using data on 167 countries over the period 1995–2012, collected from the World Bank data set. The analysis is carried using panel data methods that allow one to account for unobserved heterogeneity, temporal persistence, and cross‐section dependence in the form of either a common factor model or a spatial process. We estimate a global measure of income elasticity using all countries in the sample, and for sub‐groups of countries, depending on their geo‐political area and income. Our findings suggest that at the global level, health care is a necessity rather than a luxury. However, results vary greatly depending on the sub‐sample analysed. Our findings seem to suggest that size of income elasticity depends on the position of different countries in the global income distribution, with poorer countries showing higher elasticity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The incorporation of fluoride and strontium in hydroxyapatite affects the composition, structure, and mechanical properties of human cortical bone
Authors: Riedel Christoph , Zimmermann Elizabeth A. , Zustin Jozef , Niecke Manfred , Amling Michael , Grynpas Marc , Busse Björn
Published: September 2016

Strontium ranelate and fluoride salts are therapeutic options to reduce fracture risk in osteoporosis. Incorporation of these elements in the physiological hydroxyapatite matrix of bone is accompanied by changes in bone remodeling, composition, and structure. However, a direct comparison of the effectiveness of strontium and fluoride treatment in human cortical bone with a focus on the resulting mechanical properties remains to be established. Study groups are composed of undecalcified specimens from healthy controls, treatment‐naïve osteoporosis cases, and strontium ranelate or fluoride‐treated osteoporosis cases. Concentrations of both elements were determined using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). Backscattered electron imaging was carried out to investigate the calcium content and the cortical microstructure. In comparison to osteoporotic patients, fluoride and strontium‐treated patients have a lower cortical porosity indicating an improvement in bone microstructure. Mechanical properties were assessed via reference point indentation as a measure of bone's resistance to deformation. The strontium‐incorporation led to significantly lower total indentation distance values compared to osteoporotic cases; controls have the highest resistance to indentation. In conclusion, osteoporosis treatment with strontium and fluoride showed positive effects on the microstructure and the mechanical characteristics of bone in comparison to treatment‐naïve osteoporotic bone. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 433–442, 2017.
Oncogenic Actions of SKP2 Involves Deregulation of CDK1 Turnover Mediated by FOXM1
Authors: Krishnan Anand , K Dhanya , Babu P.S Saneesh , Jagadeeshan Sankar , Prasad Manu , Nair S. Asha
Published: September 2016

Cyclin‐dependent kinases (cdks) are central catalytic units of cell division cycle. Among the cdk family members, cdk1 has critical roles in multiple phases of the cell cycle. Aberrant expression or hyper‐actions of cdk1 are tumorigenic and yet the complex oncogenic network that regulates its turnover is poorly understood. We found a hitherto unexplored functional connection between skp2 and cdk1 turn over. In vitro knockdown or overexpression of skp2 in cultured cells reduced or induced cdk1 expression indicating skp2 as a positive driver for cdk1. A partial inhibitory role for p27 was identified in this context. Interestingly, concurrent overexpression of skp2 and p27 favored cdk1 upregulation in vitro, which correlated well with similar observations in clinical tumor samples. We found that the transcription factor FOXM1 may play a central role in the skp2–cdk1 loop. Additional molecular involvement in the skp2–cdk1 loop was also explored. In conclusion, our results revealed hitherto unexplored p27 independent molecular mechanisms for skp2 driven tumor progression. Our results support the previous findings that skp2 may be a potential therapeutic target for the management of tumors. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 797–807, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mitochondria‐Targeted Antioxidants and Uncouplers of Oxidative Phosphorylation in Treatment of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS)
Authors: Zakharova Vlada V. , Pletjushkina Olga Yu. , Zinovkin Roman A. , Popova Ekaterina N. , Chernyak Boris V.
Published: September 2016

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) development is accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction and excessive ROS production. Mitochondrial dysfunctions also occur in many SIRS‐related diseases and may be critical for their pathogenesis; therefore, a use of mitochondria‐targeted drugs is a promising trend in SIRS research and therapy. Here, we review recent studies concerning the application of the mitochondria‐targeted antioxidants and uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation in animal models of SIRS and related diseases. We propose that a new class of uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation, lipophilic cations could be a base for a new generation of drugs for SIRS treatment. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 904–912, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vertical mixing in coastal canopies
Authors: Abdolahpour Maryam , Ghisalberti Marco , Lavery Paul , McMahon Kathryn
Published: September 2016

The spatial extent over which meadows of submerged aquatic vegetation, such as seagrass, have an ecological and environmental influence is tightly limited by the exchange of water across canopy boundaries. In coastal environments, the process of vertical mixing can govern this material exchange, particularly when mean currents are weak. Despite a recently improved understanding of vertical mixing in steady canopy flows, a framework that can predict mixing in wave‐dominated canopy flows is still lacking. Accordingly, an extensive laboratory investigation was conducted to characterize the rate of vertical mixing in wave‐dominated flows through measurement of the vertical turbulent diffusivity (Dt,z) of an injected dye sheet. A simple model of coastal canopies, an array of wooden dowels of variable packing density, was subjected to waves with a wide and realistic range of height and period. Vertical mixing across the top of a submerged canopy is shown to be driven by both the shear layer that forms at the top of the canopy and wake turbulence generated by canopy stems. By allowing for an additive contribution from these two processes, we present a predictive formulation for the rate of vertical mixing in coastal canopies across a range of wave and canopy conditions. The rate of vertical mixing, and the dominant mixing mechanism, is highly dependent upon a Keulegan–Carpenter number (KC) that represents the ratio of the particle excursion length to the length scale that defines the canopy drag. This study enables a significantly enhanced predictive capability for the residence time of ecologically and environmentally significant species within coastal canopies.
Structure–Function Correlations of Poly(Amido Amine)s for Gene Delivery
Authors: Sun Yanping , Xian Lei , Yu Jiankun , Yang Tianzhi , Zhang Jinmin , Yang Zhen , Jiang Jingzheng , Cai Cuifang , Zhao Xiaoyun , Yang Li , Ding Pingtian
Published: September 2016

Poly(amido amine)s' (PAAs) versatility are nearly unique among stepwise polymers. Different functional groups can be easily introduced into these polymers to add functionality such as cell internalization, charge‐shift, bioreducibility, “stealth” properties, and targeting moieties, while maintaining the bulk structural integrity of these polymers. The poly(amido amine)s are used as a unique research platform to elucidate their complex structure–function relationship. It is shown that guanidinium group, carboxyl group, disulfide bond, alkyl chain, branching, acetyl groups, benzoyl groups, and quaternary nicotinamide moieties can influence many steps of gene delivery, such as DNA condensation, cellular uptake, endosomal escape, nuclear entry, and finally gene expression. The authors systematically discuss the structure–function correlations of PAAs for gene delivery, and elaborate how the properties of polymers can be adjusted by changing the polymeric structure.

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PVA/Carbon Dot Nanocomposite Hydrogels for Simple Introduction of Ag Nanoparticles with Enhanced Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Hu Meng , Gu Xiaoyu , Hu Yang , Deng Yonghong , Wang Chaoyang
Published: September 2016

The introduction of nanomaterials to hydrogels is an effective way to improve the mechanical properties of hydrogels. Herein, carbon nanodot (C‐dot) as a new‐found excellent nanomaterial is first added to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel to prepare PVA/C‐dot hydrogel by freeze–thaw method. The appropriate size and plenty of surface functional groups make C‐dot an ideal nucleating agent for PVA crystallization, which leads to form a denser and more uniform cross‐linked network in PVA hydrogel, and in turn enhance the mechanical properties of PVA hydrogel. Compared to pure PVA hydrogel, about a 46.4% increase of tensile strength and 18.5% increase of elongation at break are achieved when the content of C‐dot in PVA/C‐dot hydrogel is 2 wt%, suggesting that C‐dot can effectively improve the mechanical properties of PVA hydrogel. Besides, C‐dot can endow PVA hydrogel with some new properties, such as fluorescence and reducibility. Herein, Ag nanoparticles are simply introduced and uniformly dispersed in PVA hydrogels with the help of reducibility of C‐dot, which can greatly enhance the antibacterial activity of PVA/C‐dot hydrogels, and enlarge their application potential in medical field.

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Seeing without knowing: Operational principles along the early visual pathway
Authors: Zhou Bin , Pöppel Ernst , Wang Lingyan , Yang Taoxi , Zaytseva Yuliya , Bao Yan
Published: September 2016

Single cases may lead to unexpected hypotheses in psychology. We retrospectively analyzed single case studies that suggested organizational principles along the early visual pathway, which have remained unanswered until now. First case: In spite of the inhomogeneity of sensitivity, paradoxically the visual field on the subjective level appears to be homogeneous; constancy of brightness of supra‐threshold stimuli throughout the visual field is claimed to be responsible for homogeneity; specific summation properties of retinal ganglion cells are hypothesized to guarantee this effect. Second case: With a brain‐injured patient having suffered a partial visual field loss it can be shown that color induction is a retinal phenomenon; lateral inhibitory processes at the level of amacrine cells are hypothesized as neural network. Third case: In a patient having suffered a bilateral occipital lobe infarction, some functional recovery has been demonstrated; divergence and convergence of projection in the ascending neural pathway are suggested as a structural basis for recovery. Slowed down binocular rivalry discloses a sequential mechanism in the construction of a visual percept. Fourth case: The pre‐wired projection of the retina to the visual cortex in spite of a severe squint of one eye is confirmed, but paradoxically some local neuroplasticity is also suggested. Fifth case: Using habituation of local sensitivity in the visual field and its resetting by interhemispheric interactions as an experimental paradigm, it is suggested that spatial attention is controlled at the midbrain level. Sixth case: Observations on residual vision or “blindsight” support the hypothesis that the visual cortex is the one and only structure responsible for visual perception on a conscious level. The unifying principle of these retrospective analyses is that subjective visual phenomena can lead to unexpected but testable hypotheses of neural processing on the structural and functional level in the early visual pathway.
Linking neuroimaging signals to behavioral responses in single cases: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Sander Tilmann H. , Zhou Bin
Published: September 2016

Despite rapid progress both in psychology and neuroimaging, there is still a convergence gap between the results of these two scientific disciplines. This is particularly unsatisfactory, as the variability between single subjects needs to be understood both for basic science and for patient diagnostics in, for example, the field of age‐related cognitive changes. Active and passive behaviors are the observables in psychology and can be studied alone or in combination with the neuroimaging approach. Various physical signatures of brain activity are the observables in neuroimaging and can be measured concurrent with behaviors. Despite the intrinsic relationship between behaviors and the corresponding neuroimaging patterns and the obvious advantages in integrating behavioral and neuroimaging measurements, the results of combined studies can be difficult to interpret. Experiments are often optimized to yield either a novel behavioral or a novel physiological result, but rarely designed for a better match between the two. Since integrating the results is probably a key to future progress in clinical psychology and basic research, an attempt is made here to identify some difficulties and to provide some ideas for future research.
Particle‐in‐Cell/Test‐Particle Simulations of Technological Plasmas: Sputtering Transport in Capacitive Radio Frequency Discharges
Authors: Trieschmann Jan , Schmidt Frederik , Mussenbrock Thomas
Published: September 2016

The paper provides a tutorial to the conceptual layout of a self‐consistently coupled Particle‐In‐Cell/Test‐Particle model for the kinetic simulation of sputtering transport in capacitively coupled plasmas at low gas pressures. It explains when a kinetic approach is needed and which numerical concepts allow for capturing the often observed nonequilibrium behavior of the charged and neutral particles. At the example of a generic sputtering discharge, both the fundamentals of the applied Monte Carlo methods as well as their conceptual details are elaborated on. Finally, two assumptions that are often exploited in the context of sputtering transport simulations, namely on the energy distribution of impinging ions as well as on the test particle approach, are validated for the proposed example discharge.
Vertical GaN bipolar devices: Gaining competitive advantage from photon recycling
Authors: Mochizuki Kazuhiro
Published: September 2016

It is shown that peripheral current Ip flows in non‐self‐aligned mesa‐type p–n diodes but that Ip flowing in GaN diodes cannot be explained by elongated minority‐carrier lifetime associated with intrinsic photon recycling (IPR), i.e., reabsorption of radiative recombination. Accordingly, possible increase in the ratio of deep Mg acceptors (energy level: EA) due to extrinsic photon recycling (EPR) is proposed, and the effect of EPR is expressed as an effective EA. Due to the limit on the power dissipation of a semiconductor package, EPR works effectively in the case of zero‐offset bipolar‐junction transistors, whose base doping level is limited in terms of emitter‐injection efficiency.

Measured and simulated forward‐current–voltage characteristics of non‐self‐aligned mesa‐type GaN p–n diodes.
Finding paths in sparse random graphs requires many queries
Authors: Ferber Asaf , Krivelevich Michael , Sudakov Benny , Vieira Pedro
Published: September 2016

We discuss a new algorithmic type of problem in random graphs studying the minimum number of queries one has to ask about adjacency between pairs of vertices of a random graph in order to find a subgraph which possesses some target property with high probability. In this paper we focus on finding long paths in when for some fixed constant . This random graph is known to have typically linearly long paths. To have edges with high probability in one clearly needs to query at least pairs of vertices. Can we find a path of length economically, i.e., by querying roughly that many pairs? We argue that this is not possible and one needs to query significantly more pairs. We prove that any randomised algorithm which finds a path of length with at least constant probability in with must query at least pairs of vertices. This is tight up to the factor. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 50, 71–85, 2017
The role of space agencies in remotely sensed essential biodiversity variables
Authors: Paganini Marc , Leidner Allison K. , Geller Gary , Turner Woody , Wegmann Martin
Published: September 2016

The Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON) is developing the Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) as the key variables needed, on a regular and global basis, to understand and monitor changes in the Earth's biodiversity. A subset of these EBVs can be derived from space‐based remote sensing, within this paper referred to as remotely sensed EBVs (RS‐EBVs). Given the global, periodic and standardized character of satellite remote sensing measures, RS‐EBVs may be seen as easier to generate than non‐remotely sensed EBVs, which have to be assembled from disparate and local sources of information. Particularly because they are global and periodic, RS‐EBVs are of special relevance for monitoring the state of and changes to biodiversity, notably the structure and function of ecosystems. If well developed, RS‐EBVs can provide key information for global biodiversity assessments as well as for national governments to meet their obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), in particular to formulate and implement appropriate management responses to biodiversity losses. However, the relevance and usage of globally produced RS‐EBVs in wide‐scale ecological modelling, such as in species distribution and abundance studies or in ecosystem integrity analyses, are still to be demonstrated, in particular when it comes to deriving biodiversity indicators for policy making and implementation. The biodiversity community at large, from those conducting scientific ecological studies to those involved in the development of remote sensing applications for biodiversity monitoring, can gain value from RS‐EBVs, but doing so requires close cooperation with space agencies. Effective interaction is only likely to result if the biodiversity community understands how space agencies determine their observation and product requirements. To develop these requirements, space agencies need to precisely specify the physical measurements for their spaceflight instruments, as well as the algorithmic approaches, to generate RS‐EBV products from these measurements. Here, we address the biodiversity community to discuss the role space agencies should play in the development of EBVs arising from satellite remote sensing. Importantly, we explain the necessity for translating the observational needs of the biodiversity community into specific satellite remote sensing measurement and algorithm requirements. By summarizing the prerequisite conditions that are required for obtaining a collective and strong engagement of space agencies in the co‐development of RS‐EBVs, we aim to facilitate collaborative efforts between the biodiversity community and the space agencies, which can ultimately contribute to a global and comprehensive biodiversity knowledge system.
A Facile and Direct Glycosidation Method for the Synthesis of 2‐Deoxy α‐Rhamnosides Catalyzed by Ferric Chloride
Authors: Qiu Saifeng , Zhang Wan , Sun Guosheng , Wang Zhongfu , Zhang Jianbo
Published: September 2016

A facile and highly efficient O‐glycosylation method for stereoselective synthesis of 2,6‐dideoxy‐O‐glycosides has been described promoted by FeCl3, an eco‐friendly, easily available and non‐toxic catalyst. Acetylated 2‐deoxy rhamnoside was chosen as the glycosyl donor for its convenient preparation and great stability at room temperature. The glycosylation was amenable to a wide range of acceptors including primary, secondary, tertiary alcohols, sterols, amino acid derivatives and sugar derivatives. Thus, 2,6‐dideoxyglycosides and oligosaccharides were obtained in short reaction time (<40 min) at room temperature in good to excellent yields (70‐97 %) with preponderant α‐selectivity (α/β=4:1 to >19:1).
Ni(II)‐Incorporated MCM‐41 Material ‐ Heterogeneous Catalyst for C‐S and C‐N Cross Coupling Reactions
Authors: Moorthy Malathy , Govindaraj Anbarasu , Madheswaran Bharathi , Kannan Brundha , Rangappan Rajavel
Published: September 2016

Ni(II) Schiff base complex was successfully immobilized on the surface of the MCM‐41 material using the organo silane compound 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane by the direct synthesis method. The as‐synthesized Ni‐MCM‐41 material was investigated by the characterization techniques like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, small angle X‐ray powder diffraction, N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherms, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersion X‐ray analysis. The studies show that the Ni‐MCM‐41 material retained good mesoporous structure and acts as an efficient catalyst for the C−S and C−N cross coupling reactions under prominent reaction conditions. Readily available nature of the starting compounds, synthesis of effective catalyst and reusability of the catalyst makes the present synthetic method a remarkable strategy.
Effect of Protic and Aprotic Solvents on the Mechanism of Cellulose Dissolution in Ionic Liquids: A Combined Molecular Dynamics and Experimental Insight
Authors: Mohan Mood , Banerjee Tamal , Goud Vaibhav V.
Published: September 2016

The present study is undertaken to reveal the effect of cosolvents on the dissolution behaviour of cellulose in 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate ([Emim][OAc]) by both quantum chemical (QC) and Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations. Two categories of cosolvents namely protic and aprotic solvents have been selected in order to enhance the cellulose dissolution in ionic liquid (IL). In the typical IL/cosolvent system, anion of the IL was found to be strongly solvated by the protic solvents (Formamide and Acetamide) thereby resulting in decreasing cellulose solubility, whereas it gave contrary trend for aprotic solvents (DMSO, DMF, DMAc). The dissolution of cellulose was essentially quantified by the cellulose‐anion interactions by studying the non‐bonded interaction energies. Furthermore, the solid‐liquid equilibria experiments were conducted for cellulose in IL and IL/cosolvent mixtures to confirm the simulated results. From MD simulations and experimental results, DMSO was found to be the best cosolvent for the enhancement of cellulose dissolution in IL. The regenerated cellulose was then characterized by Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). From the TGA analysis, thermal stability of regenerated cellulose was found to be reduced by 6 °C at room temperature.
Highly Stable Copper Nanoparticles Linked to Organic Frameworks as Recyclable Catalyst for Three‐Component Click Cycloaddition in Water
Authors: Prakash Sadasivan P. , Gopidas Karical R.
Published: September 2016

Synthesis, characterization and catalytic applications of highly stable copper‐nanoparticles linked to aromatic frameworks are reported. Synthesis of these nanoparticles was achieved in a one‐pot reaction which involved the simultaneous reduction of CuCl2.2H2O and 4,4’‐biphenylene‐bis‐diazonium tetrafluoroborate using sodium borohydride. Copper atoms formed upon reduction of Cu ions undergo clustering, leading to the formation of copper nanoparticles. At the same time, 4,4’‐biphenylene‐bis‐diazonium tetrafluoroborate are converted to biphenylene biradicals, which undergoes rapid addition reactions with each other and also on to the nanoparticle surfaces resulting in the formation of aromatic framework linked Cu nanoparticles. Four different types of nanoparticles were prepared by varying the concentration of the metal salts and the ligands. The structure and morphology of these materials were studied using XRD, XPS, SEM and HRTEM analysis. The materials were found to be very good catalysts for click reactions between azides and alkynes and exhibited TOF values as high as 305400 h−1. They also efficiently catalyzed the one‐pot click reactions involving azide precursors, sodium azide and alkyne. TOF up to 99000 h−1 were observed for these reactions.
Propionibacterium acnes Host Inflammatory Response During Periprosthetic Infection Is Joint Specific
Authors: Nodzo Scott R. , Boyle K. Keely , Bhimani Samrath , Duquin Thomas R. , Miller Andy O. , Westrich Geoffrey H.
Published: September 2016

Background

Propionibacterium acnes ( P. acnes) has become increasingly recognized as a cause of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

Questions/Purposes

It is not currently known if the clinical presentation of P. acnes varies depending on the joint being infected.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients infected with P. acnes after total hip, knee, and shoulder arthroplasty from two institutions. Patients were classified as having a PJI based on the Musculoskeletal Infection Society criteria and were excluded if they had a polymicrobial culture. Patient demographics, preoperative laboratory values, and microbiology data were analyzed.

Results

Eighteen knees, 12 hips, and 35 shoulders with a P. acnes PJI were identified. Median ESR was significantly higher in the knee (38.0 mm/h, IQR 18.0–58.0) and hip (33.5 mm/h, IQR 15.3–60.0) groups compared to the shoulder group (11.0 mm/h, IQR 4.5–30.5). C-reactive protein levels were higher in the knee (2.0 mg/dl, IQR 1.3–8.9) and hip (2.4 mg/dl, IQR 0.8–4.9) groups compared to the shoulder group (0.7 mg/dl, IQR 0.6–1.5). Median synovial fluid WBC was significantly higher in the knee group than shoulder group (19, 950 cells/mm3, IQR 482–60, 063 vs 750 cells/mm3, IQR 0–2825, respectively). Peripheral blood WBC levels were similar between groups, as was mean time of P. acnes growth in culture. Clindamycin resistance was present in all groups.

Conclusion

The manner in which a patient with P. acnes PJI presents is joint specific. Inflammatory markers were significantly higher in the knee and hip groups compared to the hip and shoulder groups, and long hold anaerobic cultures up to 14 days are necessary to accurately identify this organism.
Robust Flash Calculation Algorithm for Microemulsion Phase Behavior
Authors: Khorsandi Saeid , Johns Russell T.
Published: September 2016

The HLD‐NAC model was recently modified to match and predict microemulsion phase behavior experimental data for Winsor type III regions. Until now, the HLD‐NAC model could not generate realistic phase behavior for type II− and type II+ two‐phase regions, leading to significant saturation and composition discontinuities when catastrophe theory is applied. These discontinuities lead to significant failures in modeling surfactant applications. We modify the HLD‐NAC equations to ensure consistency over the entire composition space including type II− and II+ regions. A robust and efficient algorithm is developed that always converges and provides continuous estimates with any formation variable of tie lines and triangles for all Winsor types. Discontinuities are eliminated and limiting tie lines near critical points are determined analytically. The tuning procedure is demonstrated using several sets of experimental data. Excellent predictability of tie lines and tie triangles, and solubilization ratios are shown.