bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Physiotherapy on Pain Intensity and Disability in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Call for Patients’ Awareness to Focus on Physiotherapy Treatment in Cameroon
Authors: Ghassi Hyacinte Trésor , Buh Franklin Chu , Muntessu Dilane Landry Nsangou , Siewe Julio Rostan , Noumoé David Léonel , Epee Paule-Laure Soppo , Douryang Maurice
Published: November 2024

Background: This study aimed at evaluating the effects of conventional physiotherapy (CPT) treatment on pain and disability among patients with Chronic low back pain (CLBP)
Methods: we conducted a quasi-experimental study in some major physiotherapy units in Cameroon from December 2022 to April 2023, patients following physiotherapy treatment for CLBP were enrolled. A structured questionnaire was used to collect general characteristics of participants; the level of pain was assessed with the VAS (Visual Analog Scale) and the impairment of physical function with the EIFEL scale (Echelle d’Incapacité Fonctionelle du Patient Lombalgique). The data collected were analyzed using SPSS. The paired Student test was used to compare the initial and final VAS and EIFEL scores. The Leverne test was used to compare treatment outcomes between patients who received CPT alone and those who received non-conventional traditional medicine (TM). Statistical significance was calculated at P˂ 0.05.
Results: Were included in this study 158 patients with CLBP with a mean age of 46.3 ±14.3. Female were more represented (106/157, 67%). The patients underwent CPT for a mean duration of 8.9 ±15.8 months at a weekly mean session frequency of 3.8±1. Of the 158 participants, 35 (22.2%) underwent additional TM. Conventional physiotherapy significantly reduced pain (Initial VAS:7.4± 1.3; Final VAS: 3.9± 1; P=0.000) and physical impairment of participants (Initial EIFEL: 15.7± 4.5; Finale EIFEL: 6.8 ± 3.2; P=0.000). The study found no significative difference in pain (P= 0.317) and physical impairment (P=0.302) in patients following exclusively CPT and those following physiotherapy additionally to non-conventional TM.
Conclusion: Physiotherapy treatment reduces pain and improve physical function of patients with chronic low back pain and additional non-conventional TM did not have improve further pain and disability in these patients.
A INCIPIÊNCIA NORMATIVA DA EDUCAÇÃO ANIMALISTA NO BRASIL E A NECESSÁRIA RECORRÊNCIA AOS FUNDAMENTOS NORMATIVOS DA EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL
Authors: Brito Fernando de Azevedo Alves , De Azevedo Alves Brito Álvaro
Published: November 2024

RESUMO: A presente pesquisa tem como objetivo demonstrar como a incipiência normativa da Educação Animalista no Brasil torna necessário, para a sua viabilização, que recorra aos fundamentos normativos da Educação Ambiental. A discussão acerca de uma Educação Animalista é relativamente jovem no Brasil, sendo estimulada pela promulgação da Constituição Federal de 1988, que inovou ao normatizar, em dispositivos simultâneos, a Educação Ambiental e a vedação da submissão dos animais à crueldade. Apesar disso, a normatização da Educação Animalista no Brasil é incipiente, resumindo-se a pontuais iniciativas municipais e estaduais. Como a Educação Ambiental não se opõe à causa animal, surge a necessidade de investigar-se se as normas jurídicas que a regulam podem ser utilizadas para auxiliar na viabilização da Educação Animalista. A opção metodológica foi por uma pesquisa exploratória, que transita entre a revisão bibliográfica e a análise documental. Concluiu-se que, apesar de serem legítimos os debates teóricos a favor da Educação Animalista, a sua afirmação, como novo eixo educacional, não deve ignorar os históricos avanços normativos obtidos no campo da Educação Ambiental. Até mesmo porque, diferentemente desta, a Educação Animalista, até o presente, vê-se desprovida de normas educacionais próprias, de aplicabilidade nacional, que lhe assegurem aspectos essenciais para a sua viabilização, a exemplo de objetivos, princípios, métodos, competências e, entre outros aspectos, habilidades.
To honor and obey: Perceptions and disclosure of sexual assault among honor ideology women
Authors: McLean Caitlin L. , Crowder Marisa K. , Kemmelmeier Markus
Published: May 2018

The overwhelming majority of rapes goes unreported. To better understand the sociocultural mechanisms behind why underreporting may occur, three studies (total n = 1,481) examine how women's endorsement of honor values influence the perceptions of rape. Using vignettes that varied the closeness of the perpetrator of a sexual assault (i.e., stranger, acquaintance, or husband), we found that women who endorse honor values of womanhood were less likely to label a forced sexual act as “rape” and to suggest that the victim discloses the rape to others, including to the police. This was especially true the closer the victim was to the perpetrator (e.g., husband vs. stranger). Our findings highlight the effects of honor values on perceived sexual assault and the consequences of disclosure, and may aid in understanding barriers to rape reporting and areas for intervention.
Lack of correspondence between the reactive proactive questionnaire and the impulsive premeditated aggression scale among forensic psychiatric outpatients
Authors: Smeijers Danique , Brugman Suzanne , von Borries Katinka , Verkes Robbert‐Jan , Bulten Erik
Published: May 2018

The most studied bimodal classifications of aggressive behavior are the impulsive/premeditated distinction measured with the Impulsive Premeditated Aggression Scale and the reactive/proactive distinction measured with the Reactive Proactive Questionnaire. The terms of these classifications are often used interchangeably, assuming that reactive aggression is equivalent to impulsive aggression and that proactive aggressive behavior is the same as premeditated aggression. The correspondence or discrepancy between both aggression classifications/questionnaires, however, is understudied. Therefore, the current study investigated the correspondence between the RPQ and IPAS in a sample of 161 forensic psychiatric outpatients (FPOs) with severe aggressive behavior. Correlation analysis revealed a limited correspondence between the RPQ and IPAS. Cluster analyses derived three clusters from the RPQ as well as the IPAS: these clusters did not match in 60.3% of the cases. Furthermore, the notion that the RPQ measures trait aggression whereas the IPAS assesses state aggression could not be verified. The present study indicates that aggression subtypes as measured by use of the RPQ and IPAS correspond only partially and should not be used interchangeably. Furthermore, it was suggested that RPQ focuses more on actual aggressive behavior and the IPAS more on emotions and their regulation. Future research is needed to elucidate the applicability of both questionnaires in further detail.
Hydrogel‐Immobilized Supercharged Proteins
Authors: Campbell Eleanor C. , Grant Jacob , Wang Yi , Sandhu Mahakaran , Williams Richard J. , Nisbet David R. , Perriman Adam W. , Lupton David W. , Jackson Colin J.
Published: May 2018

The remarkable catalytic potential of enzymes in chemical synthesis, environmental bioremediation, and medical therapeutics is limited by their longevity and stability. Immobilization of enzymes on solid supports is demonstrated to improve the stability of biocatalysts but often relies on multiple chemical steps for covalent attachment and is limited by the physical properties of the various supports. Here, production of enzyme: hydrogel complexes is described via engineering of a cationic supercharged phosphotriesterase. These enzyme: hydrogel complexes are remarkably robust displaying no loss of catalytic activity after 80 d of use and up to 105 turnovers when used in a flow reactor at catalyst loadings as low as 0.0008 mol%. In addition, exceptional resilience to organic solvents is observed. The use of enzyme: hydrogel complexes is likely to be of value in a diverse range of applications such as enantioselective continuous‐flow chemistry, detoxification of poisons, and the formation of functionalized biomaterials.
Residual Strain and Stress in Biocrystals
Authors: Seknazi Eva , Pokroy Boaz
Published: May 2018

The development of residual strains within a material is a valuable engineering technique for increasing the material's strength and toughness. Residual strains occur naturally in some biominerals and are an important feature that is recently highlighted in biomineral studies. Here, manifestations of internal residual strains detected in biominerals are reviewed. The mechanisms by which they develop, as well as their impact on the biominerals' mechanical properties, are described. The question as to whether they can be utilized in multiscale strengthening and toughening strategies for biominerals is discussed.
Design of a New Fused‐Ring Electron Acceptor with Excellent Compatibility to Wide‐Bandgap Polymer Donors for High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Liu Wenrui , Zhang Jianyun , Zhou Zichun , Zhang Dongyang , Zhang Yuan , Xu Shengjie , Zhu Xiaozhang
Published: May 2018

Fused‐ring electron acceptors (FREAs) have recently received intensive attention. Besides the continuing development of new FREAs, the demand for FREAs featuring good compatibility to donor materials is becoming more and more urgent, which is highly desirable for screening donor materials and achieving new breakthroughs. In this work, a new FREA is developed, ZITI, featuring an octacyclic dithienocyclopentaindenoindene central core. The core is designed by linking 2,7‐dithienyl substituents and indenoindene with small methylene groups, in which the indeno[1,2‐b]thiophene‐2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile part provides a large and unoccupied π‐surface. Most notably, ZITI possesses an excellent compatibility with commercially available polymer donors, delivering very high power conversion efficiencies of over 13%.
Soft Electronic Strain Sensor with Chipless Wireless Readout: Toward Real‐Time Monitoring of Bladder Volume
Authors: Stauffer Flurin , Zhang Qiang , Tybrandt Klas , Llerena Zambrano Byron , Hengsteler Julian , Stoll André , Trüeb Camill , Hagander Michael , Sujata Jean‐Marc , Hoffmann Felix , Schuurmans Stekhoven Joy , Quack Josefine , Zilly Hannes , Goedejohann Johannes , Schneider Marc P. , Kessler Thomas M. , Taylor William R. , Küng Roland , Vörös János
Published: May 2018

Sensing mechanical tissue deformation in vivo can provide detailed information on organ functionality and tissue states. To bridge the huge mechanical mismatch between conventional electronics and biological tissues, stretchable electronic systems have recently been developed for interfacing tissues in healthcare applications. A major challenge for wireless electronic implants is that they typically require microchips, which adds complexity and may compromise long‐term stability. Here, a chipless wireless strain sensor technology based on a novel soft conductor with high cyclic stability is reported. The composite material consists of gold‐coated titanium dioxide nanowires embedded in a soft silicone elastomer. The implantable strain sensor is based on an resonant circuit which consists of a stretchable plate capacitor and a coil for inductive readout of its resonance frequency. Successful continuous wireless readout during 50% strain cycles is demonstrated. The sensor element has a Young's modulus of 260 kPa, similar to that of the bladder in order to not impair physiological bladder expansion. A proof‐of‐principle measurement on an ex vivo porcine bladder is presented, which shows the feasibility of the presented materials and devices for continuous, wireless strain monitoring of various tissues and organs in vivo.
Fast Adaptive Thermal Buffering by a Passive Open Shell Based on Transformation Thermodynamics
Authors: Liu Yichao , Sun Fei , He Sailing
Published: May 2018

By using transformation thermodynamics, an open, adaptive thermal buffer shell (TBS) is designed and experimentally implemented with natural materials (layered copper and expanded polystyrene [EPS]). The TBS can store excessive heat flux quickly in the shell and release it slowly when it is needed, which also has some distinctive features: first it is a buffer shell that can avoid external extremes in temperature (either high or low) and also provide a relatively stable temperature for the interior of the shell when the temperature outside the shell has some fluctuations; second the TBS is not thermally insulated (with holes connected to the outside world) and the buffering effect of the TBS originates from the heat recycling mechanics, not thermal insulation; third the TBS has a short response time and the temperature inside the shell can be quickly adjusted according to the average temperature outside the shell; fourth the TBS is a passive device. Unlike traditional air conditioning, the TBS can work without an external power supply. The TBS will have many applications in energy recycling systems, smart heat controlling systems, and passive heat self‐adaptation systems. Numerical simulations and experimental demonstrations are given to verify the function of the TBS.
Relationship between fractal dimensions of fracture surface and impact toughness of polycaprolactone/nano‐CaCO3 composites
Authors: Liang Ji‐Zhao
Published: May 2018

The fractal dimensions of the specimen impact fracture surface of nanosized calcium carbonate reinforced polycaprolactone (PCL) composites were determined using a structure‐function method; and the correlation between V‐notched Izod impact strength measured at room temperature and fractal dimensions was studied. It was found that the fractal dimension range of the specimen fracture surface was from about 1.918 to 1.967, and all of the correlation coefficients were higher than 0.9. There was a strong relationship between the fracture surface fractal dimension and the impact strength. It indicated that the specimen fracture surface of the composites had obvious fractal character, the measured impact strength increased with increasing the fracture surface fractal dimension, and the correlation between them obeyed a three‐order polynomial equation. In addition, the toughening mechanisms of the PCL nanocomposites were discussed.
Electrical Transport in Devices Based on Edge‐Fluorinated Graphene
Authors: Koleśnik‐Gray Maria , Sysoev Vitalii I. , Gollwitzer Stefan , Pinakov Dmitry V. , Chekhova Galina N. , Bulusheva Lyubov G. , Okotrub Alexander V. , Krstić Vojislav
Published: May 2018

The conductivity of few‐ and monolayer graphene with covalently bound moieties is a key‐point in the potential application of these materials in any electrical and optoelectronic device. In particular, fluorination of such graphene‐based systems is of interest, as fluorine is expected to have a strong influence on the charge‐carrier density due to its high electronegativity, and therefore modify the electrical transport properties significantly. Here it is shown that, depending on the device architecture, the electrical properties of fluorinated graphene‐based devices are significantly different. It is found that the conductivity of thin films of few‐layer graphene decreases by several orders of magnitude with fluorine content increasing from 2.4 to 16.6 at%, whereas individual flakes show a significant increase in both conductivity and charge carrier mobility. This observation, combined with Raman microscopy study, points toward the fact that the edges of the flakes are primary sites for fluorine within the experimental range of fluorine content. The strong decrease in conductivity in the film devices is therefore associated with the high contact resistance between the fluorine saturated edges of the individual flakes.
Vocal repertoire of free‐ranging adult golden snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana)
Authors: Fan Penglai , Liu Xuecong , Liu Ruoshuang , Li Fang , Huang Tianpeng , Wu Feng , Yao Hui , Liu Dingzhen
Published: May 2018

Vocal signaling represents a primary mode of communication for most nonhuman primates. A quantitative description of the vocal repertoire is a critical step in in‐depth studies of the vocal communication of particular species, and provides the foundation for comparative studies to investigate the selective pressures in the evolution of vocal communication systems. The present study was the first attempt to establish the vocal repertoire of free‐ranging adult golden snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) based on quantitative methods. During 8 months in Shennongjia National Park, China, we digitally recorded the vocalizations of adult individuals from a provisioned, free‐ranging group of R. roxellana across a variety of social‐ecological contexts. We identified 18 call types, which were easily distinguishable by ear, visual inspection of spectrograms, and quantitative analysis of acoustic parameters measured from recording samples. We found a great sexual asymmetry in the vocal repertoire size (females produced many more call types than males), likely due to the sex differences in body size and social role. We found a variety of call types that occurred during various forms of agonistic and affiliative interactions at close range. We made inference about the functions of particular call types based on the contexts in which they were produced. Studies on the vocal communication in R. roxellana are particularly valuable since they provide a case about how nonhuman primates, inhabiting forest habitats and forming complex social systems, use their vocalizations to interact with their social and ecological environments.
Open sepulchers and closed boundaries? Biodistance analysis of cemetery structure and postmarital residence in the late prehispanic Andes
Authors: Velasco Matthew C.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

In the Late Intermediate Period Andes (AD 1100–1450), the proliferation of above‐ground sepulchers reconfigured social boundaries within and between communities engaged in protracted conflict. However, the biosocial dimensions of these mortuary practices, and their implications for conflict and alliance formation, remain unexplored. This study examines patterns of phenotypic variation to: (1) evaluate if open sepulchers were organized on the basis of biological relatedness, and (2) explore if sex‐specific phenotypic variability conforms to models of postmarital residence.

Materials and methods

Cranial nonmetric traits were recorded in five skeletal samples from two cemeteries in the Colca Valley, Peru. Biological distances between burial groups were calculated using the Mean Measure of Divergence (MMD) statistic. Postmarital residence was explored by calculating and bootstrapping the ratio of male‐to‐female mean pairwise differences (MPD) at the within‐group level.

Results

The MMD analysis yields greater than expected between‐group distances for burial groups with a minimum sample size of 20 individuals. In contrast, a prevailing pattern of sex‐specific, within‐group phenotypic variability is not apparent from the analysis of MPD. The use of 12 or 24 dichotomous traits produces similar results.

Discussion

Greater than expected biological distances suggest that above‐ground mortuary practices reinforced biosocial boundaries between corporate household groups. Intracemetery heterogeneity persisted even as cranial vault modification, a correlate of social identity, became more homogenous, revealing how corporate group organization was negotiated at multiple scales. Sex‐specific variation does not conform to traditional migration models. If migration occurred, it did not have a homogenizing effect on phenotypic variation. These results should be viewed with caution in light of the smaller sample sizes of sex‐specific groupings.
Dynamic Ultralong Organic Phosphorescence by Photoactivation
Authors: Gu Long , Shi Huifang , Gu Mingxing , Ling Kun , Ma Huili , Cai Suzhi , Song Lulu , Ma Chaoqun , Li Hai , Xing Guichuan , Hang Xiaochun , Li Jiewei , Gao Yaru , Yao Wei , Shuai Zhigang , An Zhongfu , Liu Xiaogang , Huang Wei
Published: May 2018

Smart materials with ultralong phosphorescence are rarely investigated and reported. Herein we report on a series of molecules with unique dynamic ultralong organic phosphorescence (UOP) features, enabled by manipulating intermolecular interactions through UV light irradiation. Our experimental data reveal that prolonged irradiation of single‐component organic phosphors of PCzT, BCzT, and FCzT under ambient conditions can activate UOP with emission lifetimes spanning from 1.8 to 1330 ms. These phosphors can also be deactivated back to their original states with short‐lived phosphorescence by UV irradiation for 3 h at room temperature or through thermal treatment. Additionally, the dynamic UOP was applied successfully for a visual anti‐counterfeiting application. These findings may provide unique insight into dynamic molecular motion for optical processing and expand the scope of smart‐response materials for broader applications.
Bismesitoylphosphinic Acid (BAPO‐OH): A Ligand for Copper Complexes and Four‐Electron Photoreductant for the Preparation of Copper Nanomaterials
Authors: Beil Andreas , Müller Georgina , Käser Debora , Hattendorf Bodo , Li Zhongshu , Krumeich Frank , Rosenthal Amos , Rana Vijay Kumar , Schönberg Hartmut , Benkő Zoltán , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: May 2018

Bismesitoylphosphinic acid, (HO)PO(COMes)2 (BAPO‐OH), is an efficient photoinitiator for free‐radical polymerizations of olefins in aqueous phase. Described here are the structures of various copper(II) and copper(I) complexes with BAPO‐OH as the ligand. The complex CuII(BAPO‐O)2(H2O)2 is photoactive, and under irradiation with UV light in aqueous phase, it serves as a source of metallic copper in high purity and yield (>80 %). Simultaneously, the radical polymerization of acrylates can be initiated and allows the preparation of nanoparticle/polymer nanocomposites in which the metallic Cu nanoparticles are protected against oxidation. The determination of the stoichiometry of the photoreductions suggests an almost quantitative conversion from CuII into Cu0 with half an equivalent of BAPO‐OH, which serves as a four‐electron photoreductant.
Optimizing Antimicrobial Peptide Dendrimers in Chemical Space
Authors: Siriwardena Thissa N. , Capecchi Alice , Gan Bee‐Ha , Jin Xian , He Runze , Wei Dengwen , Ma Lan , Köhler Thilo , van Delden Christian , Javor Sacha , Reymond Jean‐Louis
Published: May 2018

We used nearest‐neighbor searches in chemical space to improve the activity of the antimicrobial peptide dendrimer (AMPD) G3KL and identified dendrimer T7, which has an expanded activity range against Gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria including Klebsiellae pneumoniae, increased serum stability, and promising activity in an in vivo infection model against a multidrug‐resistant strain of Acinetobacter baumannii. Imaging, spectroscopic studies, and a structural model from molecular dynamics simulations suggest that T7 acts through membrane disruption. These experiments provide the first example of using virtual screening in the field of dendrimers and show that dendrimer size does not limit the activity of AMPDs.
Lower Activation Energy for Catalytic Reactions through Host–Guest Cooperation within Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Aguila Briana , Sun Qi , Wang Xiaoliang , O'Rourke Erica , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Ma Shengqian
Published: May 2018

Industrial synthesis is driven by a delicate balance of the value of the product against the cost of production. Catalysts are often employed to ensure product turnover is economically favorable by ensuring energy use is minimized. One method, which is gaining attention, involves cooperative catalytic systems. By inserting a flexible polymer into a metal–organic framework (MOF) host, the advantages of both components work synergistically to create a composite that efficiently fixes carbon dioxide to transform various epoxides into cyclic carbonates. The resulting material retains high yields under mild conditions with full reusability. By quantitatively studying the kinetic rates, the activation energy was calculated, for a physical mixture of the catalyst components to be about 50 % higher than that of the composite. Through the unification of two catalytically active components, a new opportunity opens up for the development of synergistic systems in multiple applications.
Remote Central‐to‐Axial Chirality Conversion: Direct Atroposelective Ester to Biaryl Transformation
Authors: Link Achim , Sparr Christof
Published: May 2018

A strategy for the remote central‐to‐axial chirality conversion by simultaneous planarization of an encoding and a transient stereocenter is presented. Based on a diastereoselective double addition of a chiral 1,5‐bifunctional organomagnesium alkoxide reagent to a broad range of aryl ester substrates, axially chiral biaryls are directly obtained upon in situ reduction. Various structurally distinct atropisomeric biaryl silanes that serve as valuable chiral biaryl anion surrogates are accessible in one step with e.r. values of up to 98:2.
Prototypen‐Entwicklung von Instrumenten für das chemische Laboratorium mithilfe von preiswerten Elektronikmodulen
Authors: Urban Pawel L.
Published: May 2018

Quelloffene Elektronik und Programmierung können für die chemische und biomedizinische Forschung einen erheblichen Nutzen bringen. Derzeit können Chemiker aus einem breiten Spektrum an günstigen universellen Elektronikmodulen (Mikrocontroller‐Boards oder Single‐Board‐Computern) auswählen und damit wissenschaftliche Instrumente als Prototypen bauen, um experimentelle Probleme zu lösen und die tägliche Forschungsarbeit zu unterstützen. Bei oft nur wenigen Stunden Einarbeitungszeit beträgt das Budget dafür manchmal nur 50 US‐Dollar. Bei der Prototypen‐Entwicklung mit preiswerten Elektronikmodulen haben Chemiker eine große Gestaltungsfreiheit in der Entwicklung von individueller, speziell angepasster Instrumentierung. Verzögerungen durch anspruchsvolle Plattformen, die nicht sofort zur Verfügung stehen, lassen sich vermeiden.
MOF Scaffold for a High‐Performance Mixed‐Matrix Membrane
Authors: Xie Ke , Fu Qiang , Webley Paul A. , Qiao Greg G.
Published: May 2018

A novel composite membrane consisting of an interconnected MOF scaffold coated with cross‐linked poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been developed. As a result of its unique structure, the membrane shows an exceptional 18‐fold permeability enhancement as compared to pristine PEG membranes, without compromising the selectivity. This performance is unattainable with current mixed‐matrix membranes (MMMs). Our optimized membrane has a permeability of 2700 Barrer with a CO2/N2 selectivity of 35, which surpasses the latest Robeson upper bound.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Chiral Cyclopent‐2‐enones by Nickel‐Catalyzed Desymmetrization of Malonate Esters
Authors: Karad Somnath Narayan , Panchal Heena , Clarke Christopher , Lewis William , Lam Hon Wai
Published: May 2018

The enantioselective synthesis of highly functionalized chiral cyclopent‐2‐enones by the reaction of alkynyl malonate esters with arylboronic acids is described. These desymmetrizing arylative cyclizations are catalyzed by a chiral phosphinooxazoline/nickel complex, and cyclization is enabled by the reversible E/Z isomerization of alkenylnickel species. The general methodology is also applicable to the synthesis of 1,6‐dihydropyridin‐3(2H)‐ones.
A Cocatalyst that Stabilizes a Hydride Intermediate during Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution over a Rhodium‐Doped TiO2 Nanosheet
Authors: Ida Shintaro , Sato Kenta , Nagata Tetsuya , Hagiwara Hidehisa , Watanabe Motonori , Kim Namhoon , Shiota Yoshihito , Koinuma Michio , Takenaka Sakae , Sakai Takaaki , Ertekin Elif , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: May 2018

The hydrogen evolution reaction using semiconductor photocatalysts has been significantly improved by cocatalyst loading. However, there are still many speculations regarding the actual role of the cocatalyst. Now a photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction pathway is reported on a cocatalyst site using TiO2 nanosheets doped with Rh at Ti sites as one‐atom cocatalysts. A hydride species adsorbed on the one‐atom Rh dopant cocatalyst site was confirmed experimentally as the intermediate state for hydrogen evolution, which was consistent with the results of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In this system, the role of the cocatalyst in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is related to the withdrawal of photo‐excited electrons and stabilization of the hydride intermediate species; the presence of oxygen vacancies induced by Rh facilitate the withdrawal of electrons and stabilization of the hydride.
The Important Role of the Byproduct Triphenylphosphine Oxide in the Magnesium(II)‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Reaction of Hemiacetals and Phosphorus Ylides
Authors: Wang Linqing , Yang Dongxu , Li Dan , Liu Xihong , Wang Pengxin , Wang Kezhou , Zhu Haiyong , Bai Lutao , Wang Rui
Published: May 2018

By employing a simple in situ generated magnesium catalyst, a direct asymmetric reaction between hemiacetals and phosphorus ylides was achieved through a tandem Wittig–oxa‐Michael reaction sequence. Enantioenriched chromans, isochromans, and tetrahydropyrans were obtained in good chemical yields, and (−)‐erythrococcamide B was synthesized in enantioenriched form. The byproduct triphenylphosphine oxide was identified as a necessary additive for this process.
Syntheses and Immunological Evaluation of Self‐Adjuvanting Clustered N‐Acetyl and N‐Propionyl Sialyl‐Tn Combined with a T‐helper Cell Epitope as Antitumor Vaccine Candidates
Authors: Chang Tsung‐Che , Manabe Yoshiyuki , Fujimoto Yukari , Ohshima Shino , Kametani Yoshie , Kabayama Kazuya , Nimura Yuka , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Fukase Koichi
Published: May 2018

Sialyl‐Tn (STn) is a tumor‐associated carbohydrate antigen (TACA) rarely observed on healthy tissues. We synthesized two fully synthetic N‐acetyl and N‐propionyl STn trimer (triSTn) vaccines possessing a T‐helper epitope and a TLR2 agonist, since the clustered STn antigens are highly expressed on many cancer cells. Immunization of both vaccines in mice induced the anti‐triSTn IgG antibodies, which recognized triSTn‐expressing cell lines PANC‐1 and HepG2. The N‐propionyl triSTn vaccine induced the triSTn‐specific IgGs, while IgGs induced by the N‐acetyl triSTn vaccine were less specific. These results illustrated that N‐propionyl triSTn is a valuable unnatural TACA for anticancer vaccines.
Analyzing self‐controlled case series data when case confirmation rates are estimated from an internal validation sample
Authors: Xu Stanley , Clarke Christina L. , Newcomer Sophia R. , Daley Matthew F. , Glanz Jason M.
Published: May 2018

Vaccine safety studies are often electronic health record (EHR)‐based observational studies. These studies often face significant methodological challenges, including confounding and misclassification of adverse event. Vaccine safety researchers use self‐controlled case series (SCCS) study design to handle confounding effect and employ medical chart review to ascertain cases that are identified using EHR data. However, for common adverse events, limited resources often make it impossible to adjudicate all adverse events observed in electronic data. In this paper, we considered four approaches for analyzing SCCS data with confirmation rates estimated from an internal validation sample: (1) observed cases, (2) confirmed cases only, (3) known confirmation rate, and (4) multiple imputation (MI). We conducted a simulation study to evaluate these four approaches using type I error rates, percent bias, and empirical power. Our simulation results suggest that when misclassification of adverse events is present, approaches such as observed cases, confirmed case only, and known confirmation rate may inflate the type I error, yield biased point estimates, and affect statistical power. The multiple imputation approach considers the uncertainty of estimated confirmation rates from an internal validation sample, yields a proper type I error rate, largely unbiased point estimate, proper variance estimate, and statistical power.
Utilizing two detectors in the measurement of trichloroacetic acid in human urine by reaction headspace gas chromatography
Authors: Xie Wei‐Qi , Gong Yi‐Xian , Yu Kong‐Xian
Published: May 2018

A reaction headspace gas chromatography (HS‐GC) technique was investigated for quantitatively analyzing trichloroacetic acid in human urine. This method is based on the decomposition reaction of trichloroacetic acid under high‐temperature conditions. The carbon dioxide and chloroform formed from the decomposition reaction can be respectively detected by the thermal conductivity detection HS‐GC and flame ionization detection HS‐GC. The reaction can be completed in 60 min at 90°C. This method was used to quantify 25 different human urine samples, which had a range of trichloroacetic acid from 0.52 to 3.47 mg/L. It also utilized two different detectors, the thermal conductivity detector and the flame ionization detector. The present reaction HS‐GC method is accurate, reliable and well suitable for batch detection of trichloroacetic acid in human urine.
Chiral separation of isoxanthohumol and 8‐prenylnaringenin in beer, hop pellets and hops by HPLC with chiral columns
Authors: Moriya Hyuga , Tanaka Sohei , Iida Yukari , Kitagawa Satomi , Aizawa Sen‐ichi , Taga Atsushi , Terashima Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Atsushi , Kodama Shuji
Published: May 2018

Xanthohumol, isoxanthohumol, and 8‐prenylnaringenin in beer, hop and hop pellet samples were analyzed by HPLC using an InertSustain phenyl column and the mobile phase containing 40% methanol and 12% 2‐propanol. Fractions of isoxanthohumol and 8‐prenylnaringenin obtained by the above HPLC were separately collected. Isoxanthohumol and 8‐prenylnaringenin were enantioseparated by HPLC using a Chiralcel OD‐H column with a mobile phase composed of hexane–ethanol (90:10, v/v) and a Chiralpak AD‐RH column with a mobile phase composed of methanol–2‐propanol–water (40:20:40, v/v/v), respectively. Isoxanthohumol and 8‐prenylnaringenin from beer, hop and hop pellet samples were found to be present in a racemic mixture. This can be explained by the fact that the two analytes were produced by a nonenzymatic process. The effects of boiling conditions on the conversion of xanthohumol into isoxanthohumol were also studied. A higher concentration of ethanol in heating solvent resulted in a decrease in the conversion ratio and the conversion was stopped by addition of ethanol at >50% (v/v). The isomerization was significantly affected pH (2−10) and the boiling medium at pH 5 was minimum for the conversion. Therefore, it was suggested that xanthohumol was relatively difficult to convert to isoxanthohumol in wort (pH 5−5.5) during boiling.
Simultaneous quantification of fentanyl, sufentanil, cefazolin, doxapram and keto‐doxapram in plasma using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Flint Robert B. , Bahmany Soma , van der Nagel Bart C. H. , Koch Birgit C. P.
Published: May 2018

A simple and specific UPLC–MS/MS method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of fentanyl, sufentanil, cefazolin, doxapram and its active metabolite keto‐doxapram. The internal standard was fentanyl‐d5 for all analytes. Chromatographic separation was achieved with a reversed‐phase Acquity UPLC HSS T3 column with a run‐time of only 5.0 min per injected sample. Gradient elution was performed with a mobile phase consisting of ammonium acetate or formic acid in Milli‐Q ultrapure water or in methanol with a total flow rate of 0.4 mL min−1. A plasma volume of only 50 μL was required to achieve adequate accuracy and precision. Calibration curves of all five analytes were linear. All analytes were stable for at least 48 h in the autosampler. The method was validated according to US Food and Drug Administration guidelines. This method allows quantification of fentanyl, sufentanil, cefazolin, doxapram and keto‐doxapram, which is useful for research as well as therapeutic drug monitoring, if applicable. The strength of this method is the combination of a small sample volume, a short run‐time, a deuterated internal standard, an easy sample preparation method and the ability to simultaneously quantify all analytes in one run.
Erythema nodosum in an adolescent patient with cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndrome
Authors: Chan Linda , Campbell Dianne E. , Ming Andrew G.
Published: May 2018

Key Clinical Message

Cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndrome (CAPS) is a monogenetic auto‐inflammatory disorder with systemic manifestations. Innate immune system aberrance is seen in both CAPS and erythema nodosum and this case may point to a previously unknown association. In pediatric patients with EN and systemic features, the possibility of underlying CAPS should be considered.
Diabetic chorea as a neurological complication
Authors: Kenzaka Tsuneaki , Fujikawa Moemi , Matsumoto Masanori
Published: May 2018

Key Clinical Message

Diabetic chorea accompanies hyperglycemic states or drastic changes in blood glucose levels and involves the acute onset of unilateral or bilateral choreatic movements. Diabetes is sometimes discovered due to diabetic chorea, and thus, diabetic chorea is considered an important neurological complication.
Strict Correlation of HOMO Topology and Magnetic Aromaticity Indices in d‐Block Metalloaromatics
Authors: Mauksch Michael , Tsogoeva Svetlana B.
Published: May 2018

Magnetic aromaticity and antiaromaticity of closed shell metalloaromatics with 4d transition metals (Nb, Tc, Rh) is strictly correlated with the orbital topology (Möbius or Hückel) of their π‐HOMO, investigated computationally with DFT methods. A surprisingly simple rule emerged: the metallacycle is aromatic (antiaromatic) when the number of π MOs is even and the π‐HOMO is of Möbius (Hückel) topology‐and vice versa when the number of π MOs is odd.
CuI‐Catalyzed Pentafluoroethylation of Aryl Iodides in the Presence of Tetrafluoroethylene and Cesium Fluoride: Determining the Route to the Key Pentafluoroethyl CuI Intermediate
Authors: Ohashi Masato , Ishida Naoyoshi , Ando Kota , Hashimoto Yu , Shigaki Anna , Kikushima Kotaro , Ogoshi Sensuke
Published: May 2018

The Cu(I)‐catalyzed pentafluoroethylation of iodoarenes via the fluorocupration of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) is disclosed. The active species, (phen)CuC2F5, was isolated and its molecular structure confirmed by a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The key to the successful suppression of the competing oligomerization of TFE is to refrain from stirring the reaction mixture. A mechanistic study clearly discarded the possibility that the catalytic reaction proceeds via a radical pathway.
Access to quality gynecologic oncology care: A work in progress
Authors: Duska Linda R.
Published: May 2018

The process of providing quality cancer care, particularly among patients with gynecologic cancer, is a complex one. Insurance coverage for specialty gynecologic oncologist care is critical, but attention also must be paid to the other aspects of multidisciplinary cancer care and supportive care services, the value of keeping patients in their communities, the rapidly rising costs of providing care in the academic/tertiary care setting, and the financial burden of cancer care to patients.

See also pages 2677‐9.
NiO Nanoparticles Anchored on Phosphorus‐Doped α‐Fe2O3 Nanoarrays: An Efficient Hole Extraction p–n Heterojunction Photoanode for Water Oxidation
Authors: Li Feng , Li Jing , Zhang Jie , Gao Lili , Long Xuefeng , Hu Yiping , Li Shuwen , Jin Jun , Ma Jiantai
Published: May 2018

The photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting efficiency of a hematite‐based photoanode is still far from the theoretical value due to its poor surface reaction kinetics and high density of surface trapping states. To solve these drawbacks, a photoanode consisting of NiO nanoparticles anchored on a gradient phosphorus‐doped α‐Fe2O3 nanorod (NR) array (NiO/P‐α‐Fe2O3) was fabricated to achieve optimal light absorption and charge separation, as well as rapid surface reaction kinetics. Specifically, a photoanode with the NR array structure allowed a high mass‐transport rate to be achieved, while phosphorus doping effectively decreased the number of surface trapping sites and improved the electrical conductivity of α‐Fe2O3. Furthermore, the p–n junction that forms between NiO and P‐α‐Fe2O3 can further improve the PEC performance due to efficient hole extraction and the water oxidization catalytic activity of NiO. Consequently, the NiO/P‐α‐Fe2O3 NR photoanode produced a high photocurrent density of 2.08 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode and a 110 mV cathodic shift of the onset potential. This rational design of structure offers a new perspective in exploring high‐performance PEC photoanodes.
Unravelling changing interspecific interactions across environmental gradients using Markov random fields
Authors: Clark Nicholas J. , Wells Konstans , Lindberg Oscar
Published: May 2018

Inferring interactions between co‐occurring species is key to identify processes governing community assembly. Incorporating interspecific interactions in predictive models is common in ecology, yet most methods do not adequately account for indirect interactions (where an interaction between two species is masked by their shared interactions with a third) and assume interactions do not vary along environmental gradients. Markov random fields (MRF) overcome these limitations by estimating interspecific interactions, while controlling for indirect interactions, from multispecies occurrence data. We illustrate the utility of MRFs for ecologists interested in interspecific interactions, and demonstrate how covariates can be included (a set of models known as Conditional Random Fields, CRF) to infer how interactions vary along environmental gradients. We apply CRFs to two data sets of presence–absence data. The first illustrates how blood parasite (Haemoproteus,Plasmodium, and nematode microfilaria spp.) co‐infection probabilities covary with relative abundance of their avian hosts. The second shows that co‐occurrences between mosquito larvae and predatory insects vary along water temperature gradients. Other applications are discussed, including the potential to identify replacement or shifting impacts of highly connected species along climate or land‐use gradients. We provide tools for building CRFs and plotting/interpreting results as an R package.
Superparamagnetic Fe3O4 Nanoparticles in a Deep Eutectic Solvent: An Efficient and Recyclable Catalytic System for the Synthesis of Primary Carbamates and Monosubstituted Ureas
Authors: Inaloo Iman Dindarloo , Majnooni Sahar , Esmaeilpour Mohsen
Published: May 2018

Superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles were used to synthesize various primary carbamates as well as monosubstituted and N,N‐disubstituted ureas. This efficient phosgene‐free process used urea as an eco‐friendly carbonyl source in the presence of a biocompatible deep eutectic solvent (DES) to provide an inexpensive and attractive route that afforded the products in moderate to excellent yields. The employed DES serves both a catalytic role and as the green reaction medium. The magnetic nanocatalyst and DES can been reused several times without a significant loss of activity.
Predictive factors of overall functioning improvement in patients with chronic schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder treated with paliperidone palmitate and aripiprazole monohydrate
Authors: Girardi Paolo , Del Casale Antonio , Rapinesi Chiara , Kotzalidis Georgios D. , Splendori Francesca , Verzura Claudio , Trovini Giada , Sorice Serena , Carrus Dario , Mancinelli Iginia , Comparelli Anna , De Filippis Sergio , Francomano Antonio , Ballerini Andrea , Marcellusi Andrea , Mennini Francesco S. , Ducci Giuseppe , Sani Gabriele , Pompili Maurizio , Brugnoli Roberto
Published: May 2018

Background

Long‐acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics can improve medication adherence and reduce hospitalisation rates compared with oral treatments. Paliperidone palmitate (PAL) and aripiprazole monohydrate (ARI) LAI treatments were associated with improvements in global functioning in patients with schizophrenia.

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the predictive factors of better overall functioning in patients with chronic schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder treated with PAL and ARI.

Method

Enrolled were 143 (97 males, 46 females, mean age 38.24 years, SD = 12.65) patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, whom we allocated in two groups (PAL and ARI treatments). We assessed global functioning, amount of oral medications, adherence to oral treatment, and number of hospitalisations before LAI introduction and at assessment time point.

Results

Longer treatment time with LAIs (p < .001), lower number of oral drugs (p < .001), and hospitalisations (p = .002) before LAI introduction, and shorter duration of illness (p = .038) predicted better Global Assessment of Functioning scores in the whole sample (R2 = 0.337).

Conclusion

Early administration and longer duration of ARI or PAL treatments could play a significant role in improving global functioning of patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Better improvement in functioning could be achieved with ARI in young individuals with recent illness onset and PAL in patients at risk for recurrent hospitalisations.
CULTURAL ADAPTATIONS OF EVIDENCE‐BASED HOME‐VISITATION MODELS IN TRIBAL COMMUNITIES
Authors: Hiratsuka Vanessa Y. , Parker Myra E. , Sanchez Jenae , Riley Rebecca , Heath Debra , Chomo Julianna C. , Beltangady Moushumi , Sarche Michelle
Published: May 2018

The Tribal Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (Tribal MIECHV) Program provides federal grants to tribes, tribal consortia, tribal organizations, and urban Indian organizations to implement evidence‐based home‐visiting services for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) families. To date, only one evidence‐based home‐visiting program has been developed for use in AI/AN communities. The purpose of this article is to describe the steps that four Tribal MIECHV Programs took to assess community needs, select a home‐visiting model, and culturally adapt the model for use in AI/AN communities. In these four unique Tribal MIECHV Program settings, each program employed a rigorous needs‐assessment process and developed cultural modifications in accordance with community strengths and needs. Adaptations occurred in consultation with model developers, with consideration of the conceptual rationale for the program, while grounding new content in indigenous cultures. Research is needed to improve measurement of home‐visiting outcomes in tribal and urban AI/AN settings, develop culturally grounded home‐visiting interventions, and assess the effectiveness of home visiting in AI/AN communities.