bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are schizophrenia, autistic, and obsessive spectrum disorders dissociable on the basis of neuroimaging morphological findings?: A voxel‐based meta‐analysis
Authors: Cauda Franco , Costa Tommaso , Nani Andrea , Fava Luciano , Palermo Sara , Bianco Francesca , Duca Sergio , Tatu Karina , Keller Roberto
Published: March 2017

Schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SCZD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and obsessive‐compulsive spectrum disorder (OCSD) are considered as three separate psychiatric conditions with, supposedly, different brain alterations patterns. From a neuroimaging perspective, this meta‐analytic study aimed to address whether this nosographical differentiation is actually supported by different brain patterns of gray matter (GM) or white matter (WM) morphological alterations. We explored two possibilities: (a) to find out whether GM alterations are specific for SCZD, ASD, and OCSD; and (b) to associate the identified brain alteration patterns with cognitive dysfunctions by means of an analysis of lesion decoding. Our analysis reveals that these psychiatric spectra do not present clear distinctive patterns of alterations; rather, they all tend to be distributed in two alteration clusters. Cluster 1, which is more specific for SCZD, includes the anterior insular, anterior cingulate cortex, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and frontopolar areas, which are parts of the cognitive control system. Cluster 2, which is more specific for OCSD, presents occipital, temporal, and parietal alteration patterns with the involvement of sensorimotor, premotor, visual, and lingual areas, thus forming a network that is more associated with the auditory‐visual, auditory, premotor visual somatic functions. In turn, ASD appears to be uniformly distributed in the two clusters. The three spectra share a significant set of alterations. Our new approach promises to provide insight into the understanding of psychiatric conditions under the aspect of a common neurobiological substrate, possibly related to neuroinflammation during brain development. Autism Res 2017. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1079–1095. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Don't touch me! autistic traits modulate early and late ERP components during visual perception of social touch
Authors: Peled‐Avron Leehe , Shamay‐Tsoory Simone G.
Published: March 2017

Although individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have impaired responses to interpersonal touch, the underlying neural correlates remain largely unknown. Here, we examined the neural correlates that underlie interpersonal touch perception in individuals with either high or low autistic traits. Fifty‐three participants were classified as having either high or low autistic traits based on their performance on the autism quotient (AQ) questionnaire. We hypothesized that individuals with high AQ scores would have relatively high touch hypervigilance, reflected as earlier P1 and stronger late positive potential (LPP) responses, two components of event‐related potentials that serve as electrophysiological markers of anxiety bias. We recorded each participant's electroencephalography activity during presentation of images depicting human touch, object touch, and non‐touch control images. Consistent with our hypothesis, AQ scores were positively correlated with social touch aversion. Moreover, participants with high AQ scores had earlier P1 and stronger LPP responses when presented with human touch compared to the control images. Importantly, a regression model revealed that earlier P1 and larger LPP amplitude measured during social touch observation can accurately predict higher autistic trait levels. Taken together, these findings indicate that individuals with high levels of autistic traits may have a hypervigilant response to observed social touch. Autism Res 2017, 0: 000–000. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1141–1154. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Parental relationship satisfaction in families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): A multilevel analysis
Authors: Langley Emma , Totsika Vasiliki , Hastings Richard P.
Published: March 2017

Caring for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been linked to a range of negative outcomes for parents but less is known about the putative impact upon the parental couple relationship. The relationship satisfaction of parents of children with ASD was investigated using multilevel modeling. Mothers and fathers (146 couples) reported on their relationship satisfaction, their own well‐being, and the behavior problems of the child with ASD and a sibling. Results indicated that mothers and fathers reported similar levels of relationship satisfaction and it was significantly and negatively associated with parental depression and the behavior problems of the child with ASD. Relationship satisfaction was unrelated to the behavior problems of a sibling, the number of children in the household, and family socioeconomic position (SEP). Further longitudinal research that captures a broader range of variables is required to build a theoretical understanding of relationship satisfaction in families of children with ASD. Current evidence suggests that early intervention routes targeting either child behavior problems, parental mental health, or the couple relationship have the potential to benefit inter‐connected subsystems within the broader family system. Autism Res 2017. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1259–1268. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acquisition of voice onset time in toddlers at high and low risk for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Chenausky Karen , Tager‐Flusberg Helen
Published: March 2017

Although language delay is common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), research is equivocal on whether speech development is affected. We used acoustic methods to investigate the existence of sub‐perceptual differences in the speech of toddlers who developed ASD. Development of the distinction between b and p was prospectively tracked in 22 toddlers at low risk for ASD (LRC), 22 at high risk for ASD without ASD (HRA−), and 11 at high risk for ASD who were diagnosed with ASD at 36 months (HRA+). Voice onset time (VOT), the main acoustic difference between b and p, was measured from spontaneously produced words at 18, 24, and 36 months. Number of words, number of tokens (instances) of syllable‐initial b and p produced, error rates, language scores, and motor ability were also assessed. All groups' mean language scores were within the average range or slightly higher. No between‐group differences were found in number of words, b's, p's, or errors produced; or in mean or standard deviation of VOT. Binary logistic regression showed that only diagnostic status, not language score, motor ability, number of words, number of b's and p's, or number of errors significantly predicted whether a toddler produced acoustically distinct b and p populations at 36 months. HRA+ toddlers were significantly less likely to produce acoustically distinct b's and p's at 36 months, which may indicate that the HRA+ group may be using different strategies to produce this distinction.Autism Res2017. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Autism Res2017, 10: 1269–1279. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of likely associations between cerebral folate deficiency and complex genetic‐ and metabolic pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders by utilization of a pilot interaction modeling approach
Authors: Krsička Daniel , Geryk Jan , Vlčková Markéta , Havlovicová Markéta , Macek Milan , Pourová Radka
Published: March 2017

Recently, cerebral folate deficiency (CFD) was suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, the exact role of folate metabolism in the pathogenesis of ASD, identification of underlying pathogenic mechanisms and impaired metabolic pathways remain unexplained. The aim of our study was to develop and test a novel, unbiased, bioinformatics approach in order to identify links between ASD and disturbed cerebral metabolism by focusing on abnormal folate metabolism, which could foster patient stratification and novel therapeutic interventions. An unbiased, automatable, computational workflow interaction model was developed using available data from public databases. The interaction network model of ASD‐associated genes with known cerebral expression and function (SFARI) and metabolic networks (MetScape), including connections to known metabolic substrates, metabolites and cofactors involving folates, was established. Intersection of bioinformatically created networks resulted in a limited amount of interaction modules pointing to common disturbed metabolic pathways, linking ASD to CFD. Two independent interaction modules (comprising three pathways) covering enzymes encoded by ASD‐related genes and folate cofactors utilizing enzymes were generated. Module 1 suggested possible interference of CFD with serine and lysine metabolism, while module 2 identified correlations with purine metabolism and inosine monophosphate production. Since our approach was primarily conceived as a proof of principle, further amendments of the presented initial model are necessary to obtain additional actionable outcomes. Our modelling strategy identified not only previously known interactions supported by evidence‐based analyses, but also novel plausible interactions, which could be validated in subsequent functional and/or clinical studies. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1424–1435. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High Ratios of C20:4n‐6/C20:5n‐3 and Thromboxane B2/6‐Keto‐Prostaglandin F1α in Placenta Are Potential Risk Contributors for Neural Tube Defects: A Case–Control Study in Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Li Kelei , Zhang Xiaotian , Pei Lijun , Chen Gong , Liu Jianmeng , Wahlqvist Mark L. , Zheng Xiaoying , Li Duo
Published: March 2017

Background

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe congenital malformations. Folate supplementation can reduce the risk, but cannot prevent all NTDs, suggesting other reasons for folate‐resistant NTDs. The present study assesses placental fatty acid composition, eicosanoids, and cytokines as risk factors for NTDs in a Chinese population with highly incident NTDs.

Methods

Seventy‐seven aborted fetuses with NTDs during the third trimester were cases and 142 healthy newborns were controls. Placental fatty acid composition, eicosanoids, and cytokines were determined by standard methods.

Results

The placental C20:4n‐6/C20:5n‐3 and thromboxane B2 (TXB2)/6‐keto‐prostaglandin F1α (6‐keto‐PGF1α) ratios were significantly higher for cases than controls (p < 0.001 and 0.05, respectively). For the top versus the lowest tertiles of placental C20:4n‐6/C20:5n‐3 and TXB2/6‐keto‐PGF1α, odds ratios for NTD occurrence were 3.79 (95% confidence interval, 1.60–8.96) (p for trend < 0.01) and 5.52 (95% confidence interval, 2.07–14.74) (p for trend < 0.001), respectively, adjusted for fetal sex as well as maternal age, occupation, parity, smoking, passive smoking, periconceptional folate supplementation, conception season, and tea drinking. The C20:4n‐6/C20:5n‐3 and TXB2/6‐keto‐PGF1α ratios were positively correlated (r = 0.14; p < 0.05). The proportions of C18:2n‐6, C18:3n‐6, C20:3n‐6, C18:3n‐3, C20:3n‐3, C20:5n‐3, and C22:5n‐3 were significantly lower in cases than controls, and all negatively associated with NTD occurrence (tertile‐specific odds ratios); after adjustment for the potential confounders, these associations remained significant (p for trend < 0.05) except for C20:3n‐3.

Conclusion

High placental ratios of C20:4n‐6/C20:5n‐3 and TXB2/6‐keto‐PGF1α are risk factors for neural tube defects.Birth Defects Research 109:550–563, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gestational and Lactational Exposure to an Environmentally‐Relevant Mixture of Brominated Flame Retardants: Effects on Neurodevelopment and Metabolism
Authors: Tung Emily W. Y. , Kawata Alice , Rigden Marc , Bowers Wayne J. , Caldwell Don , Holloway Alison C. , Robaire Bernard , Hales Barbara F. , Wade Michael G.
Published: March 2017

Background

Developmental exposure to brominated flame retardants (BFRs), including polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD), has been associated with impaired neurodevelopment and some symptoms of metabolic syndrome. However, there are inconsistencies in studies reporting neurodevelopmental effects with studies of pure substances more likely to report effects than studies of technical products. In addition, the influence of early BFR exposures on later development of metabolic disease‐like symptoms has not been investigated. This study examined the effects of perinatal exposure to an environmentally relevant mixture of BFRs based on relative levels observed in house dust, on several markers of neurodevelopment and metabolism in offspring.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley female rats were fed a diet estimated to deliver daily doses of 0, 0.06, 20, or 60 mg/kg of a mixture of PBDEs and HBCDD from before mating to weaning. Offspring were weaned to control diet and subjected to neurobehavioral and metabolic assessments.

Results

Exposure to BFRs decreased vertical movement in at postnatal day (PND) 32 and increased time to emerge to a lighted area on PND 105 in offspring of both sexes. Although early life exposure to the BFR mixture did not impact measures of glucose or insulin action, male offspring had significantly decreased fat pad weights at PND 46. Total cholesterol was increased in male and female offspring exposed to the highest dose at PND 21.

Conclusions

These results suggest that gestational and lactational exposure to an environmentally relevant BFR mixture may induce changes in neurodevelopment and lipid metabolism in offspring. Birth Defects Research 109:497–512, 2017.© 2017 The Authors Birth Defects Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of adverse environmental conditions and protective clothing on temperature rise in a human body exposed to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields
Authors: Moore Stephen M. , McIntosh Robert L. , Iskra Steve , Lajevardipour Alireza , Wood Andrew W.
Published: March 2017

This study considers the computationally determined thermal profile of a finely discretized, heterogeneous human body model, simulating a radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF‐EMF) worker wearing protective clothing subject to RF‐EMF exposure, and subject to various environmental conditions including high ambient temperature and high humidity, with full thermoregulatory mechanisms in place. How the human body responds in various scenarios was investigated, and the information was used to consider safety limits in current international RF‐EMF safety guidelines and standards. It was found that different environmental conditions had minimal impact on the magnitude of the thermal response due to RF‐EMF exposure, and that the current safety factor of 10 applied in international RF‐EMF safety guidelines and standards for RF‐EMF workers is generally conservative, though it is only narrowly so when workers are subjected to the most adverse environmental conditions. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:356–363, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluating the quality of implantation of percutaneous ventricular restoration device (Parachute®) by cardiac computed tomography
Authors: Alaiti Mohamad Amer , Fares Anas , Erglis Andrejs , Nshisso Lemba , Shaikh Kashif , DeCicco Anthony E. , Nasif Marwan , Alkhalil Ahmad , Ince Hüseyin , Abraham William T. , Simon Daniel I. , Costa Marco A. , Attizzani Guilherme F. , Bezerra Hiram G.
Published: March 2017

Background

The Parachute is a novel percutaneously implanted ventricular partitioning device (VPD) that has emerged as a safe and feasible treatment option for patients with heart failure following anterior wall myocardial infarction. VPD efficacy is likely dependent on optimal device placement, but to date there are no published data examining the effect of device positioning on patient outcomes.

Methods and results

We retrospectively identified 32 patients successfully implanted with the Parachute device, all of whom underwent cardiac computed tomography (CCT) at baseline and after 6 months of follow‐up. Patients were divided into two groups based on self‐reported improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class: “not improved NYHA” (n = 12) and “improved NYHA” (n = 20). There were significant differences between both groups with regard to device positioning on follow‐up CCT. Compared to patients with “improved NYHA,” patients with “not improved NYHA” had longer distances from device foot to left ventricular apex (8.0 ± 4.9 vs. 2.9 ± 4.6 mm; P = 0.01), and higher lateral angles (18.0 ± 14 vs. 9.1 ± 6.8 degrees; P = 0.02), respectively. There was no significant difference between the two groups in landing zone (45.4 ± 7. vs. 45.1 ± 6.9 mm; P = 0.92) and inferior angle (14.0 ± 11.9 vs. 14.3 ± 10.1 degrees; P = 0.95). There was a numerically larger malapposition area in the “not improved NYHA” group (5.1 ± 4.5 vs. 3.2 ± 2.2 cm2; P = 0.12).

Conclusion

Quality of Parachute implant impacted clinical outcome, these findings should be applied prospectively in helping operators to achieve optimal implant. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coronary artery bifurcation narrowing treated by Axxess stent implantation: The CARINAX registry
Authors: Briguori Carlo , Donahue Michael , Visconti Gabriella , Focaccio Amelia , Pennacchi Mauro , Lucisano Luigi , Stio Rocco , Mancone Massimo , Calcagno Simone , Di Palma Vito , Labalestra Nicola , Signoriello Giuseppe , Sardella Gennaro
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To compare the safety and efficacy of the Axxess™ biolimus‐eluting stent with the second‐generation drug‐eluting stent (DES) in the treatment of bifurcation lesions.

Background

The Axxess™ is a dedicated bifurcation stent, designed to cover the lesion at the carina level.

Methods

Between April 2012 and August 2014, 165 patients with de novo bifurcation lesions were treated with the Axxess™ stent (Axxess group). A propensity‐score matched group of 165 patients treated with DES in the same period was selected (Control group). The primary objectives were (1) the procedural complication rate, including side branch (SB) occlusion and trouble in SB access after main vessel stenting; and (2) the device, the angiographic, and the procedural success rate.

Results

Procedural complications occurred in 1 patient (0.6%) in the Axxess group and in 20 patients (12%) in the Control group (OR = 0.03; 95% confidence interval 0.005–0.27; P < 0.001). Device success was obtained in 164 (99.5%) patients in the Axxess group and in all in the Control group (P = 1.00). Angiographic success was obtained in all patients. Inaccurate Axxess™ stent position occurred in 21 (13%) patients, and was more often associated with moderate‐to‐severe calcifications and distal lesion site. Procedural success was obtained in 91.5% patients in the Axxess group and in 90% patients in the Control group (P = 0.72).

Conclusions

The present registry suggests that the Axxess™ stent (1) may represent a valid alternative approach for the treatment of bifurcation lesions and (2) should be avoided in moderate‐to‐severe calcifications and/or in distal lesions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“Cognitive” radial access
Authors: Abouzaki Nayef , Vetrovec George W.
Published: March 2017

Key Points

Using observational data, acute outcomes for type C lesions appear comparable between radial and femoral access.

Radial access associated with longer procedures and greater radiation exposure

In‐hospital complications in propensity matched patients were not significantly different regardless of access site
Non‐cardiac surgery after PCI: Watch out for complex lesions
Authors: Belardi Jorge A. , Albertal Mariano
Published: March 2017

Key Points

Patients who undergo non‐cardiac surgery after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) carry a risk of major adverse cardiac events.

Certain angiographic characteristics of the treated lesions increase the risk of non‐cardiac surgery at follow‐up: ostial, distal, and/or calcified lesions. The adjunctive use of intravascular imaging may guarantee an optimal result in these lesions and reduce their long‐term risk.

Left main or left anterior descending locations as well as the treatment of chronic total occlusion did not influence non‐cardiac surgical risk.
Low rate fluoroscopy in cardiac catheterization: Toward a new standard?
Authors: Plourde Guillaume , Bertrand Olivier F.
Published: March 2017

Key Points

7.5 frames/s low‐rate fluoroscopy (LRF) is an effective measure to reduce patient radiation exposure during coronary procedures

LRF should now be widely integrated into clinical practice as part of a dose reduction program

Further evaluation of low‐rate cine acquisition could potentially reduce radiation exposure to a greater extent
Patent ductus arteriosus and pulmonary arterial hypertension: Is it closer to closure?
Authors: Parekh Dhaval , Krajcer Zvonimir
Published: March 2017

Key Points

Occlusion of large patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) with elevated pulmonary pressures can be considered in patients with left‐to‐right shunting and low resistance as evidenced by LV enlargement on echocardiography.

High technical and procedural success was achieved without incurring major complications: embolization, hemolysis, residual shunt, or adjacent pulmonary or aortic impingement.

The Occlutech® PDA occluder may be well suited for treating large PDA given its shape, flexibility, and available large sizes. Its enlarged pulmonary end and aortic retention skirt may allow increased stability with less oversizing in patients with elevated pulmonary pressures.
Does the removal of the temporary pacer wire for BAV and TAVR really simplify the procedure?
Authors: Steinvil Arie , Satler Lowell
Published: March 2017

Key Points

Temporary wire pacing (TWP) involving a separate right ventricular (RV) pacing electrode during balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), is effective for both BAV and TAVR stability during deployment. Hilling‐Smith et al. describe their experience on 208 TAVR and BAV patients using the left ventricular (LV) support guidewire instead of the separate RV pacing electrode.

The need for intraprocedural TWP during TAVR occurred in 5% of patients with the LV support guidewire, with an overall 21% need of PPM during the index hospitalization. No events were demonstrated during BAV procedures.

LV pacing with the support guidewire is feasible. The intraprocedural need for pacing and a 48‐hr observation period probably limit its use in TAVR. In BAV it can be considered as an alternative pacing strategy.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement by a minimalist approach: A breath of fresh air for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Caixeta Adriano , Lemos Pedro A.
Published: March 2017

Key Points

A minimalist approach to transcatheter aortic valve replacement in selected patients results in shorter hospitalization and may improve short‐ and long‐term survival compared to a standard approach

Minimalist TAVR can be performed with less or no intensive care unit support leading to a shorter hospitalization and improved resource utilization

Diligent patient selection by the heart team and thorough education of the entire care staff are the keys to success for minimalist TAVR
Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Epoxides with Cyclic Anhydrides Promoted by Bimetallic and Monometallic Phenoxy–Imine Aluminum complexes
Authors: Isnard Florence , Lamberti Marina , Pellecchia Claudio , Mazzeo Mina
Published: March 2017

Two dinuclear aluminum alkyl complexes bearing a salen ligand with alkyl backbone of different length between the nitrogen atoms (1,3‐propylene and 1,5‐pentylene backbone) and the related hemisalen aluminum complex were tested as catalysts in the ring‐opening copolymerization of cyclohexene oxide and limonene oxide with succinic anhydride and phthalic anhydride. The effects of different reaction conditions (co‐catalyst and solvent) on the productivity and selectivity of the reactions were evaluated. The comparison of the catalytic behavior of the dinuclear complexes bearing the aluminum reactive centers at different distances as well as of their mononuclear counterpart suggested that the copolymerization follows a monometallic pathway differently from what was observed in the homopolymerization of CHO.
Composites of Piezoelectric Materials and Silicon as Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhiguo , Li Zhijie , Fu Yong Qing
Published: March 2017

Group IVA elements (Si, Ge, and Sn) are promising candidates for the anode materials of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), owing to their large theoretical specific capacities. However, serious problems of pulverization and capacity degradation resulting from the huge volume changes during charge/discharge operations have hindered their successful applications as anode materials in LIBs. In this work, the diffusion behaviors of Li ions in Si(100) and Si(111) slabs with a piezoelectric field applied perpendicularly to the surfaces were investigated by using density functional theory. The results show that the diffusivity of Li in Si can be significantly enhanced by applying the electric field generated from the piezoelectric material. This finding can explain the recent experimental observations, in which an improved electrochemical performance was obtained by using Si/carbon nanotube/BaTiO3 as the anode of a LIB. A new generation of anode composite materials can be designed based on this idea and the piezoelectric material is used not only to accommodate the volume variation of active materials of Si, but also to enhance the charging rate of the LIBs.
Self‐Assembled Manganese Sulfide Nanostructures on Graphene as an Oxygen Reduction Catalyst for Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Arunchander Asokan , Peera Shaik Gouse , Sahu Akhila Kumar
Published: March 2017

The development of active, inexpensive, and durable non‐precious‐metal electrocatalysts to replace high‐cost Pt‐based catalysts towards the commercialization of fuel cell technology is the focus in recent years. In this regard, we report a facile one‐pot hydrothermal synthesis of self‐assembled manganese sulfide on graphene layers (MnS/G), and is recognized as a non‐precious‐metal catalyst for the efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in an alkaline medium. The phase purity and surface morphologies are investigated by using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic techniques, respectively. Optimized MnS/G with 50 % Mn exhibited excellent ORR properties with onset and half‐wave potentials of 0.83 and 0.71 V vs. RHE, respectively. While evaluating the durability, only a 90 mV negative shift in its half‐wave potential is observed after 5000 repeated potential cycles, which is also ascertained for up to 48 h of operation at a constant potential by using a chronoamperometric technique with 28 % degradation in the current. The optimized material is utilized as a cathode catalyst in fabricating membrane electrode assembly for performance evaluation in an anion exchange membrane fuel cell. A peak power density of 12 mW cm−2 is realized in H2−O2 feeds under ambient temperature and pressure; thus, it looks as an alternative non‐precious‐metal catalyst for fuel cell applications.
Self‐Assembled Chiral Nanostructures as Scaffolds for Asymmetric Reactions
Authors: Jiang Jian , Ouyang Guanghui , Zhang Li , Liu Minghua
Published: March 2017

The asymmetric reaction is one of the most important reactions in organic synthesis. While a large number of efficient molecular catalysts have been developed and applied, recently, supramolecular and nanostructured catalysts have been attracting interest. In this Minireview, we focus on self‐assembled chiral nanostructures and review their possibility and feasibility as enantioselective catalysts. The design concept and the requirement of the chiral scaffold as the catalysts are discussed. Based on the chirality and catalytic performance of the building molecules and the supramolecular nanostructures, the nanocatalyst is divided into chiral nanostructure driven (CND) and chiral nanostructure enhanced (CNE) enantioselective catalysts. Then, several typical self‐assembled chiral nanostructures such as nanocages, nanotubes, nanorods, micelles and vesicles are selected as the chiral scaffold and their catalytic behaviors for the asymmetric reactions were demonstrated. Finally, the future developments of the field are also discussed.
Is CuII Coordinated to Patellamides inside Prochloron Cells?
Authors: Comba Peter , Eisenschmidt Annika , Gahan Lawrence R. , Herten Dirk‐Peter , Nette Geoffrey , Schenk Gerhard , Seefeld Martin
Published: March 2017

Dinuclear CuII–patellamide complexes (patellamides are naturally occurring cyclic pseudo‐octapeptides) are known to be efficient catalysts for hydrolysis reactions of biological importance, for example, those of phosphatase, carbonic anhydrase, and glycosidase. However, the biological role of patellamides is still unknown. Patellamides were originally extracted from the sea squirt Lissoclinum patella, but are now known to be ribosomally expressed by the blue‐green algae Prochloron that live in symbiosis with L. patella. In a further step to unravel the metabolic significance of the patellamide complexes, the question as to whether these are also formed inside Prochloron cells is addressed. In this study, a biocompatible patellamide–fluorescent dye conjugate has been introduced into living Prochloron cells and, by means of flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, it is shown that CuII ions are coordinated to patellamides in vivo.
Boron‐Doped Polygonal Carbon Nano‐Onions: Synthesis and Applications in Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Mykhailiv Olena , Brzezinski Krzysztof , Sulikowski Bogdan , Olejniczak Zbigniew , Gras Malgorzata , Lota Grzegorz , Molina‐Ontoria Agustin , Jakubczyk Michal , Echegoyen Luis , Plonska‐Brzezinska Marta E.
Published: March 2017

Doping of carbon nanostructures with heteroatoms, such as boron or nitrogen, is one of the most effective ways to change their properties to make them suitable for various applications. Carbon nano‐onions (CNOs) doped with boron (B‐CNOs) were prepared by annealing (1650 °C) nanodiamond particles (NDs) under an inert He atmosphere in the presence of B. Their physicochemical properties were measured using transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), 10B and 11B solid‐state magic‐angle spinning (MAS) NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, porosimetry, and differential‐thermogravimetric analyses (TGA‐DTG). These properties were systematically discussed for the undoped and B‐doped CNO samples. The amount of substitutional B in the CNO samples varied from 0.76 to 3.21 at. %. The TEM, XRD, and Raman analyses revealed that the increased amount of B doping resulted in decreased interlayer spacing and polygonization of the structures, which in turn led to their unusual physicochemical properties. All synthesized materials were tested as electrodes for electrochemical capacitors. The B‐CNOs with low concentration of doping agent exhibited higher reversible capacitances, mainly owing to the formation of hydrophilic polygonal nanostructures and higher porosity.
Benzylphenylpyrrolizinones with Anti‐amyloid and Radical Scavenging Effects, Potentially Useful in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment
Authors: Jourdan Jean‐Pierre , Since Marc , El Kihel Laïla , Lecoutey Cédric , Corvaisier Sophie , Legay Rémi , Sopková‐de Oliveira Santos Jana , Cresteil Thierry , Malzert‐Fréon Aurélie , Rochais Christophe , Dallemagne Patrick
Published: March 2017

Herein we describe the drug design steps developed to increase the radical scavenging and β‐amyloid aggregation inhibitory activities of a previously described series of benzylidenephenylpyrrolizinones. Among the newly synthesized derivatives, some benzylphenylpyrrolizinones exhibited interesting results in regard to those activities. Initial druggability parameters were measured, and suggest these compounds as a suitable starting point for potential alternatives in treating Alzheimer's disease.
Afferent and efferent connections of the interpeduncular nucleus with special reference to circuits involving the habenula and raphe nuclei
Authors: Lima Leandro B. , Bueno Debora , Leite Fernanda , Souza Stefani , Gonçalves Luciano , Furigo Isadora C. , Donato Jose , Metzger Martin
Published: March 2017

The habenula is an epithalamic structure differentiated into two nuclear complexes, medial (MHb) and lateral habenula (LHb). Recently, MHb together with its primary target, the interpeduncular nucleus (IP), have been identified as major players in mediating the aversive effects of nicotine. However, structures downstream of the MHb‐IP axis, including the median (MnR) and caudal dorsal raphe nucleus (DRC), may contribute to the behavioral effects of nicotine. The afferent and efferent connections of the IP have hitherto not been systematically investigated with sensitive tracers. Thus, we placed injections of retrograde or anterograde tracers into different IP subdivisions or the MnR and additionally examined the transmitter phenotype of major IP and MnR afferents by combining retrograde tract tracing with immunofluorescence and in situ hybridization techniques. Besides receiving inputs from MHb and also LHb, we found that IP is reciprocally interconnected mainly with midline structures, including the MnR/DRC, nucleus incertus, supramammillary nucleus, septum, and laterodorsal tegmental nucleus. The bidirectional connections between IP and MnR proved to be primarily GABAergic. Regarding a possible topography of IP outputs, all IP subnuclei gave rise to descending projections, whereas major ascending projections, including focal projections to ventral hippocampus, ventrolateral septum, and LHb originated from the dorsocaudal IP. Our findings indicate that IP is closely associated to a distributed network of midline structures that modulate hippocampal theta activity and forms a node linking MHb and LHb with this network, and the hippocampus. Moreover, they support a cardinal role of GABAergic IP/MnR interconnections in the behavioral response to nicotine.
A DNA Logic Gate Automaton for Detection of Rabies and Other Lyssaviruses
Authors: Vijayakumar Pavithra , Macdonald Joanne
Published: March 2017

Immediate activation of biosensors is not always desirable, particularly if activation is due to non‐specific interactions. Here we demonstrate the use of deoxyribozyme‐based logic gate networks arranged into visual displays to precisely control activation of biosensors, and demonstrate a prototype molecular automaton able to discriminate between seven different genotypes of Lyssaviruses, including Rabies virus. The device uses novel mixed‐base logic gates to enable detection of the large diversity of Lyssavirus sequence populations, while an ANDNOT logic gate prevents non‐specific activation across genotypes. The resultant device provides a user‐friendly digital‐like, but molecule‐powered, dot‐matrix text output for unequivocal results read‐out that is highly relevant for point of care applications.
Return of the lysergamides. Part III: Analytical characterization of N6‐ethyl‐6‐norlysergic acid diethylamide (ETH‐LAD) and 1‐propionyl ETH‐LAD (1P–ETH‐LAD)
Authors: Brandt Simon D. , Kavanagh Pierce V. , Westphal Folker , Elliott Simon P. , Wallach Jason , Stratford Alexander , Nichols David E. , Halberstadt Adam L.
Published: March 2017

The psychoactive properties of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have fascinated scientists across disciplines and the exploration of other analogues and derivatives has been motivated by deepening the understanding of ligand‐receptor interactions at the molecular level as well as by the search for new therapeutics. Several LSD congeners have appeared on the new psychoactive substances (NPS) market in the form of blotters or powders. Examples include 1‐propionyl‐LSD (1P–LSD), AL‐LAD, and LSZ. The absence of analytical data for novel compounds is a frequent challenge encountered in clinical and toxicological investigations. Two newly emerging lysergamides, namely N6‐ethyl‐6‐norlysergic acid diethylamide (ETH‐LAD) and 1P–ETH‐LAD, were characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), low and high mass accuracy electrospray MS(/MS), GC solid‐state infrared analysis, high performance liquid chromatography diode array detection as well as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Limited analytical data for ETH‐LAD were previously available, whereas information about 1P–ETH‐LAD has not previously been encountered in the scientific literature. This study extends the characterization of lysergamides distributed on the NPS market, which will help to make analytical data available to clinicians, toxicologists, and other stakeholders who are likely to encounter these substances. The analysis of a test incubation of 1P–ETH‐LAD with human serum at 37°C by LC single quadrupole MS at various time points (0–6 h, once per hour and one measurement after 24 h) revealed the formation of ETH‐LAD, suggesting that 1P–ETH‐LAD might serve as a pro‐drug. 1P–ETH‐LAD was still detectable in serum after 24 h. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydraulic complexity at a large river confluence in the Amazon basin
Authors: Gualtieri C. , Ianniruberto M. , Filizola N. , Santos R. , Endreny T.
Published: March 2017

Confluences are a classic feature in riverine networks with important ecological and morphological functions. A method to characterize the hydraulic complexity of a river based on velocity gradients was applied, for high and low flow conditions, to the Negro and Solimões Rivers confluence in the Amazon basin. The applied metrics M1 and M2 approximate the drag forces imposed on aquatic organisms moving between 2 locations and may identify potential habitat zones and edges. Metric M2 corresponded best with the hydraulic and morphological patterns in the confluence hydrodynamic zone, with the largest M2 values in the entrance of the confluence, centered at the mixing interface, and M2 values generally decaying laterally toward the banks and longitudinally with downstream distance. Seasonal decreases in discharge magnitude in the Amazon, and decreases in discharge between other river basins analyzed in this study, led to increases in hydraulic complexity metric M2. The hydraulic complexity metrics can characterize some aspects of habitat heterogeneity and contribute to an explanation for observations of increased species richness at Amazon basin confluences and the larger ecological patterns of diversity increasing at nodes in riverine networks.
Proposal of Wide‐Area Sensing in Wireless Charging System via Magnetic Resonance Coupling
Authors: NAMIKI MASATO , NAKAMURA SOUSUKE , HASHIMOTO HIDEKI
Published: March 2017

Recently, wireless charging via magnetic resonance coupling has gained attention because it has the potential of efficient midrange wireless charging. Here, functions such as sensing at the transmitter and wireless communication from the target are the essential elements to realize a standard wireless charging system. Currently, the sensing and communication protocol of the hardware (i.e., the high‐frequency power source and antenna configuration) compatible with wireless charging is gaining attention in terms of its cost and space reduction due to the use of common components for multiple functions. However, this protocol has the problem of narrow effective areas due to the fact that the sensing range depends on the fixed Q factor of the antenna. To overcome this problem, the concept of wide‐area sensing based on a Q controllable antenna is proposed, and the effectiveness is verified through a theoretical analysis and an experiment. As a result, it is clarified that the effective area can be expanded up to a ratio of the distance g between the transmitting and receiving antennas to the inner diameter d of the antenna g/d = 5.0.
Alleviation Technique for Thermal Concentration on Specific Switching Devices in Zero‐Speed Driving of PMSM
Authors: AYANO HIDEKI , ASAI KYOTA , MATSUI YOSHIHIRO
Published: March 2017

In this paper, a technique is proposed for alleviating the thermal concentration on specific switching devices by using a zero‐sequence voltage in a three‐level inverter that drives a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in a zero‐speed and high‐torque condition. The use of the PMSM in home electronics and industrial products has become widespread, since it can realize miniaturization and a high efficiency drive. However, a large DC current flows when the PMSM is used in a zero‐speed and high‐torque condition, for example, in the hill‐start of electric vehicles, start or stop of elevators, or servo lock of servo pressing machines, and so on. In these cases, the current flows in the specific switching devices and heat generation is locally concentrated. This problem is unavoidable in a conventional two‐level inverter. A technique that can change the current path in a three‐level inverter and control the losses generated in the switching devices is proposed. We evaluated the effects of the proposed technique through a circuit simulation in which the electrical characteristics of a commercially available power device were applied. The proposed technique can reduce the highest loss of the switching devices in the three‐level inverter by about 40% as compared to that in a conventional inverter. Moreover, a method is proposed that suppresses the neutral point potential variation between the power supplies. This method can also reduce the maximum loss of the specific switching devices by about 30%.
Low‐Voltage‐Ride‐Through Performance of an HVDC Transmission System Using Two Modular Multilevel Double‐Star Chopper‐Cells Converters
Authors: OGUMA KOTA , AKAGI HIROFUMI
Published: March 2017

This paper presents an intensive discussion on a long‐distance high‐voltage direct‐current (HVDC) transmission system that combines two modular multilevel cascade converters based on double‐star chopper cells (MMCC‐DSCC) with DC power cables. Hereinafter, a single MMCC‐DSCC is referred to as a DSCC converter or just as a DSCC for the sake of simplicity. The HVDC transmission system is required to provide low‐voltage‐ride‐through (LVRT) capability to enhance transmission system availability. This paper proposes a new LVRT method without any direct information exchange between the two DSCC converters. The validity of the method is verified, using simulated waveforms from the software package of “PSCAD/EMTDC” and experimental waveforms from a three‐phase 200‐V, 400‐Vdc, 10‐kW, 50‐Hz downscaled HVDC system with a set of 300‐meter‐long DC power cables.
New Simple High‐Quality Torque Control for Permanent‐Magnet Synchronous Motors: Compensating for Torque Ripple Caused by Nonsinusoidal Back EMF
Authors: SEKINO SHINGO , SHINNAKA SHINJI
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a new and simple torque‐sensorless torque control method for permanent‐magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) with nonsinusoidal back EMF. The method suppresses the sixth and/or 12th harmonic torque ripples caused by the back EMF in a feedforward manner even at high speeds; it consists of two subordinate methods for compensation command generation and command‐tracking current control. The first subordinate method generates compensation current commands to cancel the torque ripples based on a mathematical model of PMSMs. The second method controls the stator current to track a current command containing both fundamental and compensatory components. In conjunction with the current control, a dedicated disturbance observer that employs a digital speed‐varying band‐pass filter as a disturbance filter is also proposed. The effectiveness and usefulness of the proposed method were verified through extensive experiments.
Control of the Phase Stability in Spin‐Crossover Core–Shell Nanoparticles through the Elastic Interface Energy
Authors: Félix Gautier , Mikolasek Mirko , Molnár Gábor , Nicolazzi William , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: March 2017

Size reduction leads to drastic changes in thermodynamic properties in spin‐crossover (SCO) nano‐objects in comparison with bulk materials. In particular, an important modification of the phase stability has been observed, reflected by a shift of the transition temperature. These changes are mostly attributed to the increasing role of surface properties at the nanoscale, especially the elastic properties, which play a key role in SCO phenomena. In this work, we propose a continuum mechanics approach to explore the possibility to tune the phase stability by controlling the interfacial elastic energy in core–shell nanoparticles with (semi‐)coherent interface. To this aim, the pressure at the particle surface/interface is analytically derived in the case of hollow and core–shell nano‐objects. Then, the extracted interfacial energy is injected in a thermodynamic model to mimic the spin‐transition curves in the framework of the effective medium approximation. A structural misfit between a SCO core and an inactive shell produces a negative or positive pressure on the SCO material, favoring either the high‐spin or the low‐spin states and thus can downshift or upshift the transition temperature. These theoretical results provide real perspectives for the control of the spin transition at the nanoscale via interfacial energies, as the design of core–shell coordination nanoparticles and other heterostructures has been considerably developed in recent years.
A feasibility study for enrichment of highly aggressive cancer subpopulations by their biophysical properties via dielectrophoresis enhanced with synergistic fluid flow
Authors: Douglas Temple Anne , Cemazar Jaka , Balani Nikita , Sweeney Daniel C. , Schmelz Eva M. , Davalos Rafael V.
Published: March 2017

A common problem with cancer treatment is the development of treatment resistance and tumor recurrence that result from treatments that kill most tumor cells yet leave behind aggressive cells to repopulate. Presented here is a microfluidic device that can be used to isolate tumor subpopulations to optimize treatment selection. Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a phenomenon where particles are polarized by an electric field and move along the electric field gradient. Different cell subpopulations have different DEP responses depending on their bioelectrical phenotype, which, we hypothesize, correlate with aggressiveness. We have designed a microfluidic device in which a region containing posts locally distorts the electric field created by an AC voltage and forces cells toward the posts through DEP. This force is balanced with a simultaneous drag force from fluid motion that pulls cells away from the posts. We have shown that by adjusting the drag force, cells with aggressive phenotypes are influenced more by the DEP force and trap on posts while others flow through the chip unaffected. Utilizing single‐cell trapping via cell‐sized posts coupled with a drag‐DEP force balance, we show that separation of similar cell subpopulations may be achieved, a result that was previously impossible with DEP alone. Separated subpopulations maintain high viability downstream, and remain in a native state, without fluorescent labeling. These cells can then be cultured to help select a therapy that kills aggressive subpopulations equally or better than the bulk of the tumor, mitigating resistance and recurrence.