bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonomies for categorization and research: Is a mining analogy valid?
Authors: Gilles Barbara
Published: April 2015

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

References to “data mining” or “text mining” suggest a parallel between the value characteristics of mineral mining and using taxonomies in searching for information. Research platforms combining a literature database and a taxonomy may be thought of as a mine and raw material source and a specialized tool for extraction. Information searchers are prospectors looking for specific information but without the need to establish major exploratory operations. Information mining involves digital extraction and can reveal the “ore” within the rock through inline tagging of taxonomy concepts. Analogous to gold miners working to discover tiny nuggets, information prospectors drill down to their target by using a taxonomy‐based platform to refine their search and reveal and process desired content. The same taxonomy can point to additional resources, like a mineral vein in a mine. An important difference between the mine and database is that, unlike mineral resources, data is not depleted when accessed and used. Whether mineral or information mining, each yields valuable resources to be used to advance human endeavors.
Nontesticular cancers in relatives of testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) patients from multiple‐case TGCT families
Authors: McMaster Mary L. , Heimdal Ketil R. , Loud Jennifer T. , Bracci Janet S. , Rosenberg Philip S. , Greene Mark H.
Published: April 2015

Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) exhibit striking familial aggregation that remains incompletely explained. To improve the phenotypic definition of familial TGCT (FTGCT), we studied an international cohort of multiple‐case TGCT families to determine whether first‐degree relatives of FTGCT cases are at increased risk of other types of cancer. We identified 1041 first‐degree relatives of TGCT cases in 66 multiple‐case TGCT families from Norway and 64 from the United States (combined follow‐up of 31,556 person‐years). We collected data on all cancers (except nonmelanoma skin cancers) reported by the family informant in these relatives, and we attempted to verify all reported cancer diagnoses through medical or cancer registry records. We calculated observed‐to‐expected (O/E) standardized incidence ratios, together with 95% confidence intervals (CI), for invasive cancers other than TGCT. We found no increase in risk of cancer overall (Norway O/E = 0.8; 95% CI: 0.6–1.1 and United States O/E = 0.9; 95% CI: 0.7–1.3). Site‐specific analyses pooled across the two countries revealed a leukemia excess (O/E = 6.5; 95% CI: 3.0–12.3), deficit of female breast cancer (O/E = 0.0; 95% CI: 0.0–0.6) and increased risk of soft tissue sarcoma (O/E = 7.2; 95% CI: 2.0–18.4); in all instances, these results were based on small case numbers and statistically significant only in Norway. While limited by sample size and potential issues relating to completeness of cancer reporting, this study in multiple‐case TGCT families does not support the hypothesis that cancers other than testis cancer contribute to the FTGCT phenotype.
Child Protection in a Low‐Resource Setting: Experiences From Paediatric Professionals in Kenya
Authors: Candler Toby , Gannon Hannah , Wachira John
Published: April 2015

Key Practitioner Messages:

Child protection is a significant issue in global child health.

There is an established legal framework for the protection of children globally and in Kenya.

This study has given an insight into the current experience of child protection amongst healthcare professionals in Kenya.

There was limited training reported at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

It has highlighted the need and desire for formal child protection training for all professionals working with children.
Ternary Transition Metal Oxide Nanoparticles with Spinel Structure for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Toh Rou Jun , Eng Alex Yong Sheng , Sofer Zdenek , Sedmidubsky David , Pumera Martin
Published: April 2015

It is crucial to develop electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) for renewable energy applications. Mixed‐valence transition‐metal oxides with a spinel structure have been explored for this purpose. In this work, we study the influence of the composition of the catalysts (XY2O4, X=Ni, Zn and Y=Co, Mn) on the ORR. The four different types of spinel oxide nanocrystals (NiCo2O4, NiMn2O4, ZnCo2O4, and ZnMn2O4) were synthesized by a simple and scalable method. This allowed for a systematic investigation of the transition‐metal influence on the performance of the ORR. Given the general spinel structure of XY2O4, we systematically changed X (Ni, Zn) and Y (Co, Mn). The effects of the presence of different metals in the spinel oxide on the morphology and electrocatalytic properties of the materials toward the ORR were investigated and compared by using scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron microscopy, and voltammetry. In general, cobalt‐based spinel oxides displayed a significant electrocatalytic activity towards the ORR, with Ni‐substituted spinel oxides outperforming their respective Zn‐substituted congeners. These findings may have great impact in the research field of renewable energy.
Electrochemistry as an Attractive and Effective Tool for the Synthesis and Immobilization of Porphyrins on an Electrode Surface
Authors: Hebié Seydou , Dimé Abdou K. D. , Devillers Charles H. , Lucas Dominique
Published: April 2015

Magnesium(II) 10‐phenyl‐5,15‐p‐ditolylporphyrin is easily and cleanly transformed by electrolysis. A nitro group is first introduced at the free meso position by anodic substitution. Hydrogenation into the amine is then carried out electrocatalytically under ambient conditions with water as a hydrogen supplier. The synthesized porphyrin under the nickel(II) form can be covalently grafted onto a platinum electrode by electrochemical reduction of the diazonium cation, generated in situ by a reaction of the nickel(II) aminoporphyrin with sodium nitrite and trifluoroacetic acid. The electrosynthesized thin film gives an electrochemical response typical of a porphyrin material. Films grown under our conditions have a maximum surface coverage of approximately 5×10−10 mol cm−2. The modified electrode exhibits a reproducible electrochemical behavior and a good level of stability over potential cycling and exposition to air.
Sorptive Removal of Hydrogen Sulfide from Gas Streams by an Mg‐Al Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Zhao Qian , Tian Senlin , Zhang Jiaojiao , Zhan Shujiao , Sheng Tao , Ning Ping
Published: April 2015

Mg‐Al layered double hydroxides (Mg‐Al LDHs) were used as an adsorbent for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) removal. Removal efficiency of H2S by the Mg‐Al LDH has been investigated at different temperatures and humidity. The results have shown Mg‐Al LDH to be highly promising as an adsorbent for H2S removal. Research results about sorption mechanisms indicate that at lower temperatures (20 ºC), H2S removal by Mg‐Al LDHs is mainly a physical sorption process; however, at higher temperature (> 40 ºC), it is dominated by chemical reactions involving ion exchange. Confirmation of the redox reaction between H2S and Mg‐Al LDHs was provided by XPS data. The results obtained demonstrate that the H2S removal efficiency of Mg‐Al LDHs increases with the temperature increasing, and decreases with the water vapour content increasing.
Protein Flexibility in Drug Discovery: From Theory to Computation
Authors: Buonfiglio Rosa , Recanatini Maurizio , Masetti Matteo
Published: April 2015

Nowadays it is widely accepted that the mechanisms of biomolecular recognition are strongly coupled to the intrinsic dynamic of proteins. In past years, this evidence has prompted the development of theoretical models of recognition able to describe ligand binding assisted by protein conformational changes. On a different perspective, the need to take into account protein flexibility in structure‐based drug discovery has stimulated the development of several and extremely diversified computational methods. Herein, on the basis of a parallel between the major recognition models and the simulation strategies used to account for protein flexibility in ligand binding, we sort out and describe the most innovative and promising implementations for structure‐based drug discovery.
Gas‐Phase Affinity Scales for Typical Ionic Liquid Moieties Determined by using Cooks’ Kinetic Method
Authors: Vitorino Joana , Leal João Paulo , Minas da Piedade Manuel E.
Published: April 2015

Gas‐phase affinity studies based on cations and anions commonly present in ionic liquid structures, give quantitative information about the magnitude of the interactions holding the two species together when ILs are formed. They also provide clues on how these interactions depend on the nature of the cationic and anionic moieties. In the present work, mass spectrometric experiments, performed using electrospray ionization quadrupole ion‐trap and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry, were used to obtain two affinity scales by Cooks’ kinetic method: one scale for the various cations for the bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion, [NTf2]−, and another for the different anions for the 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium cation, [C4mim]+. The obtained results are compared with previously reported data and discussed in terms of the structural characteristics of the different cationic and anionic species.
Topotecan‐induced ABCG2 expression in MCF‐7 cells is associated with decreased CD24 and EpCAM expression and a loss of tumorigenicity
Authors: Huber Stefan , Wege Anja K. , Bernhardt Günther , Buschauer Armin , Brockhoff Gero
Published: April 2015

Human breast cancer shows a considerable heterogeneity regarding the expression of CD24, CD44, EpCAM, and HER2. These markers are involved in cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation, and thus affect metastasis and, in turn, patient's outcome. The ATP‐driven efflux pump (ABC transporter) breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP, ABCG2) is known to confer resistance to a wide variety of structurally unrelated cytostatics and defines subpopulations with enhanced tumor‐initiating capacity. The expression of ABCG2 can be induced by treatment with different cytostatic drugs. Concurrent effects of such treatments on the expression of the aforementioned marker proteins and cellular properties related to cancer‐initiating cells have not been examined thoroughly. Here, we investigated the effect of the ABCG2 substrate topotecan on the MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line and analyzed CD24, CD44, EpCAM, and HER2 expression by flow cytometry. Moreover, we examined the impact of topotecan treatment on the sphere‐forming ability in vitro and the tumorigenicity in immunodeficient NMRI‐nu/nu and NSG mice. We found an elevated ABCG2 expression in MCF‐7 cells in the presence of 500 nM topotecan. Compared with untreated MCF‐7 cells, the application of topotecan induced a subpopulation with decreased CD24/EpCAM expression, whereas CD44 expression remained largely unchanged. Topotecan‐treated cells showed an impaired mammosphere formation capacity in vitro and reduced tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice. The data indicate that ABCG2 induction is not necessarily linked to increased tumorigenicity and suggest a major role of CD24 and EpCAM for the preservation of self‐renewal capacity in MCF‐7 cells and tumor outgrowth in vivo. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Identification of parameters for comparing the trial data and the simulation model, using as the example brickwork exposed to fire / Parameteridentifikation zum Abgleich von Versuchsdaten und Simulationsmodell am Beispiel brandbeanspruchten Mauerwerks
Authors: Schlegel Roger
Published: April 2015

Trials and simulations provide important aids in the development of products for constructing brickwork. The balance between measurement and simulation is one of the classic duties for model validation. If the difference between the measurement and the recalculation is excessive, an approximation task for minimizing the differences can be formulated. Optimization tasks for calibration between measurement and simulation are often deemed to be an identification problem. In the past this task was generally processed through iterative adaptation of individual characteristics. With the availability of parameter optimization programs, the iterative manual alignment can be automated and even more complex tasks can be dealt with. The necessity of such automated identification procedures becomes even more important due to the speed of innovation in current product development processes. Within virtual prototyping, virtual testing is the key towards a reduction in hardware tests. Only when reference experiments achieve a comparison of major results between measurement and simulation, can it be presumed that all the relevant phenomena for the actual test result are included in the virtual model and thus predictable models are available for virtual testing. Using brickwork exposed to fire as the example, with the aid of modern mathematical procedures, the article shows that parameter identification can be carried out in a systematic, efficient and target orientated manner.
Field report on application of the dimensioning procedure according to E DIN 4109‐2 / Erfahrungsbericht zur Anwendung des Bemessungsverfahrens nach E DIN 4109‐2
Authors: Naumann Kai
Published: April 2015

For several years, the sound insulation ratings for multi‐storey buildings have been in transition and are being brought into line with the European calculation method according to EN 12354:2000. The drafts of DIN 4109 have been available since November 2013. The forecasting procedure for the expected airborne sound insulation in solid buildings will change considerably by comparison to the regulations in Supplement 1 to DIN 4109:1989.

In recent years, the building acoustics testing unit of Xella Technologie‐ und Forschungsgesellschaft mbH has carried out numerous quality tests to determine the acoustic insulation of apartment partitioning walls and apartment partitioning floors in apartment buildings. The exterior walls of the buildings reviewed consist exclusively of plastered, autoclaved aerated concrete block walls. The interior walls were made primarily of autoclaved aerated concrete or limestone blocks. In a few cases, dry constructed or reinforced concrete inner walls were present. A comparison is presented between the test results of these quality tests and the design values of the assessed sound reduction index R’w according to E DIN 4109‐2:2013. During these tests, a discussion took place on the uncertainty that must be incorporated in the calculation so as to achieve an adequately high level of planning assurance.
Strategies of zooplanktivory shape the dynamics and diversity of littoral plankton communities: a mesocosm approach
Authors: Helenius Laura K. , Aymà Padrós Anna , Leskinen Elina , Lehtonen Hannu , Nurminen Leena
Published: April 2015

Planktivorous fish can exert strong top‐down control on zooplankton communities. By incorporating different feeding strategies, from selective particulate feeding to cruising filter feeding, fish species target distinct prey. In this study, we investigated the effects of two species with different feeding strategies, the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus (L.)) and roach (Rutilus rutilus (L.)), on a low‐diversity brackish water zooplankton community using a 16‐day mesocosm experiment. The experiment was conducted on a small‐bodied spring zooplankton community in high‐nutrient conditions, as well as a large‐bodied summer community in low‐nutrient conditions. Effects were highly dependent on the initial zooplankton community structure and hence seasonal variation. In a small‐bodied community with high predation pressure and no dispersal or migration, the selective particulate‐feeding stickleback depleted the zooplankton community and decreased its diversity more radically than the cruising filter‐feeding roach. Cladocerans rather than copepods were efficiently removed by predation, and their removal caused altered patterns in rotifer abundance. In a large‐bodied summer community with initial high taxonomic and functional diversity, predation pressure was lower and resource availability was high for omnivorous crustaceans preying on other zooplankton. In this community, predation maintained diversity, regardless of predator species. During both experimental periods, predation influenced the competitive relationship between the dominant calanoid copepods, and altered species composition and size structure of the zooplankton community. Changes also occurred to an extent at the level of nontarget prey, such as microzooplankton and rotifers, emphasizing the importance of subtle predation effects. We discuss our results in the context of the adaptive foraging mechanism and relate them to the natural littoral community.
Investigations Concerning [Cu4OX6L4] Cluster Formation of Copper(II) Chloride with Amine Ligands Related to Benzylamine
Authors: Becker Sabine , Behrens Ulrich , Schindler Siegfried
Published: April 2015

The μ4‐oxido motif is well known in copper clusters and often forms spontaneously and unexpectedly; however, little is known about the reaction conditions that generate μ4‐oxido clusters. This is surprising because these μ4‐oxido copper clusters seem to play an important role in catalysis. Herein, a systematic investigation of μ4‐oxido cluster formation is reported. The influence of several factors on cluster formation was studied, namely, the ligand environment, the central chalcogenide atom, and the bridging halido ligands. In this context, the crystal structures of the copper clusters and complexes [Cu4OCl6L24][CuL22Cl2] (L2 = phenethylamine), [CuL32Cl2] (L3 = N‐methylbenzylamine), [Cu4OCl6L44] (L4 = N,N‐dimethylbenzylamine), [CuL54Cl2] (L5 = cyclohexylamine), and [Cu4OCl6L64]·1.5[CuL62Cl2] (L6 = cyclohexanemethylamine) as well as that of HL4Cl are reported. Furthermore, the acetonitrile complexes [Cu(CH3CN)4][CuBr4], [Cu(CH3CN)Br], and [Cu(CH3CN)Br2] were obtained and characterized within attempts to prepare a μ4‐sulfido unit. The reaction conditions that generate μ4‐oxido cluster units are discussed in more detail.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 2‐Amino‐1,3‐selenazole via an Intermediary Amidinoselenourea
Authors: Ranjan Alok , Yerande Ragini , Jadhav Mahantesh , Yerande Swapnil G. , Dethe Dattatraya H.
Published: April 2015

Herein we describe a sequential one‐pot multicomponent reaction for the synthesis of 2‐amino‐1,3‐selenazole. Amidinoselenourea synthesized from isoselenocyanate and N,N‐diethyl‐amidine reacted with various halomethylene compounds to furnish 2‐amino‐1,3‐selenazole derivatives in 65–89 % yields. The molecular structure of the trisubstituted selenazole formed was unambiguously established by X‐ray crystallography.
Preparing Electric‐Generating Stations for Highest and Best Use
Authors: Malley Edward
Published: April 2015

There are about 1,000 utility‐scale electric‐generating stations (EGSs) in the United States. Integrated utilities and independent power producers (GENCOs) have announced plans to cease operations at about 150 of these sites for economic and environmental reasons. Many of these EGSs are located on large, consolidated tracts of land, on the water, or in or near cities. Redevelopment of these sites is complicated by expensive decommissioning and land‐use planning.
Histo‐genomic stratification reveals the frequent amplification/overexpression of CCNE1 and BRD4 genes in non‐BRCAness high grade ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Goundiam Oumou , Gestraud Pierre , Popova Tatiana , De la Motte Rouge Thibault , Fourchotte Virginie , Gentien David , Hupé Philippe , Becette Véronique , Houdayer Claude , Roman‐Roman Sergio , Stern Marc‐Henri , Sastre‐Garau Xavier
Published: April 2015

The treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is narrowly focused despite the heterogeneity of this disease in which outcomes remain poor. To stratify EOC patients for targeted therapy, we developed an approach integrating expression and genomic analyses including the BRCAness status. Gene expression and genomic profiling were used to identify genes recurrently (>5%) amplified and overexpressed in 105 EOC. The LST (Large‐scale State Transition) genomic signature of BRCAness was applied to define molecular subgroups of EOC. Amplified/overexpressed genes clustered mainly in 3q, 8q, 19p and 19q. These changes were generally found mutually exclusive. In the 85 patients for which the genomic signature could be determined, genomic BRCAness was found in 52 cases (61.1%) and non‐BRCAness in 33 (38.8%). A striking mutual exclusivity was observed between BRCAness and amplification/overexpression data. Whereas 3q and 8q alterations were preferentially observed in BRCAness EOC, most alterations on chromosome 19 were in non‐BRCAness cases. CCNE1 (19q12) and BRD4 (19p13.1) amplification/overexpression was found in 19/33 (57.5%) of non‐BRCAness cases. Such disequilibrium was also found in the TCGA EOC data set used for validation. Potential target genes are frequently amplified/overexpressed in non‐BRCAness EOC. We report that BRD4, already identified as a target in several tumor models, is a new potential target in high grade non‐BRCAness ovarian carcinoma.
Researching Students with Disabilities: The Importance of Critical Perspectives
Authors: Vaccaro Annemarie , Kimball Ezekiel W. , Wells Ryan S. , Ostiguy Benjamin J.
Published: April 2015

In this chapter, the authors critically review the current state of quantitative research on college students with disabilities and examine the exclusion of this marginalized population from much of our research. They propose ways to conduct research that more fully accounts for this diverse and important college population. The authors argue that critical quantitative research will produce more thorough knowledge and, in turn, policies and practices that will lead to more equitable college outcomes for students with disabilities.
Application of Person‐Centered Approaches to Critical Quantitative Research: Exploring Inequities in College Financing Strategies
Authors: Malcom‐Piqueux Lindsey
Published: April 2015

This chapter discusses the utility of person‐centered approaches to critical quantitative researchers. These techniques, which identify groups of individuals who share similar attributes, experiences, or outcomes, are contrasted with more commonly used variable‐centered approaches. An illustrative example of a latent class analysis of the college financing strategies of a nationally representative sample of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics bachelor's degree holders is presented.
Writing From Behind the Fence
Authors: Gavigan Karen , Albright Kendra
Published: April 2015

Graphic novels are an increasingly popular format that educators can use as a tool to teach reading and writing skills across the K–12 curriculum. This article describes a project in which incarcerated youths collaborated with a graphic illustrator to create a graphic novel about teens dealing with issues related toHIV/AIDS. The graphic novel is currently being used as anHIV/AIDSeducation and prevention tool for teens. The article examines the impact that creating a graphic novel had on the literacy lives of the young authors, as well as the ways it is currently being used with teens in two states. The authors present qualitative data from their observations of and interviews with the students who created the graphic novel. Further, the article provides information on how educators can teach students to create their own comics and graphic novels.
Feasibility of a nanomaterial‐tissue patch for vascular and cardiac reconstruction
Authors: Ostdiek Allison M. , Ivey Jan R. , Hansen Sarah A. , Gopaldas Raja , Grant Sheila A.
Published: April 2015

Vascular and cardiac reconstruction involves the use of biological patches to treat trauma and defects. An in vivo study was performed to determine the remodeling and biologic effects of novel nanostructured vascular patches with and without gold nanoparticles. Porcine vascular tissue was decellularized and conjugated with gold nanoparticles to evaluate if integration would occur while avoiding rupture and stenosis. Swine underwent a bilateral patch angioplasty of the carotid arteries with experimental patches on the right and control patches of bovine pericardium on the left. Animals were sacrificed after surgery and at 3 and 9 weeks. Ultrasound was performed during surgery, every 3 weeks, and before euthanasia. Endothelial regeneration was examined using Evans Blue dye and histology using Trichrome and H&E. There was a 100% success rate of implantation with 0% mortality. All patches were patent on ultrasound. At 3 weeks, experimental patches had regenerating endothelial cell growth and normal healing responses. At 9 weeks, the experimental patches demonstrated excellent integration. Histology demonstrated cellular in‐growth into the experimental patches and no major immune reactions. This is one of the first studies to demonstrate the feasibility of nanomaterial‐tissue patches for vascular and cardiac reconstruction. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 449–457, 2016.
Use of Auxiliary Functions for Construction of Series Expansion Relations of Noninteger Slater Functions in Standard Convention
Authors: Guseinov I. I.
Published: April 2015

Using complete orthonormal sets of ψ (α*) ‐self‐frictional exponential type orbitals (ψ (α*) ‐SFETOs) and Qq‐noninteger auxiliary functions (Qq‐NIAFs) introduced by the author, the combined formulas for the one‐ and two‐center one‐range addition theorems of χ‐noninteger Slater type orbitals (χ‐NISTOs) with arbitrary values of distances between centers Rab (for Rab = 0 and Rab ≠ 0), and of integer (for α* = α, –∞ < α ≤ 2) and noninteger (for α* ≠ α, –∞ < α* < 3) self‐frictional (SF) quantum numbers are suggested. The presented relations for the one‐range addition theorems can be useful tools especially in the electronic structure studies of atoms, molecules and solids when χ‐NISTOs are employed as basis functions.
Polyethylene Glycol Functionalized Magnetic Dicationic Ionic Liquids as a Novel Catalyst and Their Application in Ring Opening of Epoxides in Water
Authors: Godajdar Bijan Mombeni , Mombeni Sare
Published: April 2015

A simple and environmentally benign protocol for the aqueous synthesis of 1,2‐azidoalcohols via regioselective ring opening of 1,2‐epoxides using PEG‐MDIL as a novel magnetic phase transfer catalyst is described. The catalyst was studied by UV spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The reactions occur in water and furnish the corresponding azidoalcoholes in high yields. No evidence for the formation of by‐product and the products were obtained in pure form without further purification.
Development of Simple Electrochemical Sensor for Selective Determination of Methadone in Biological Samples Using Multi‐walled Carbon Nanotubes Modified Pencil Graphite Electrode
Authors: Alipour Esmaeel , Majidi Mir Reza , Hoseindokht Omid
Published: April 2015

The electrochemical sensor was developed for determination of methadone (MTD) using multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) modified pencil graphite electrode (MWCNT‐PGE). It was found that the oxidation peak current of MTD at the MWCNT‐PGE was greatly improved compared with that of the bare‐PGE. At the MWCNT‐PGE, well‐defined anodic peak of MTD was observed at about 0.7 V (in pH 7 solution). The influence of several parameters on the determination of MTD was investigated. At optimum experimental conditions, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was used for determination of MTD, which exhibited a linear calibration graph of Ip versus MTD concentration in the range of 0.1–15 µM with a correlation coefficient of 0.9992. The calculated detection limit for S/N = 3 was 87 nM. It has been shown that the peaks obtained for oxidation of ascorbic acid (AA), uric acid (UA) and MTD in their mixture could be well resolved by differential pulse voltammetry, permitting us to develop a sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor for determination of MTD in the presence of AA and UA. Finally, MWCNT‐PGE was used for determination of MTD in biological samples, such as human serum and urine, using the standard addition procedure and the results were quite promising.
Knoevenagel‐Michael‐cyclocondensation Tandem Reaction of Malononitrile, Various Aldehydes and Dimedone Catalyzed by Sulfonic Acid Functionalized Pyridinium Chloride as a New Ionic Liquid and Catalyst
Authors: Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Khazaei Ardeshir , Moosavi‐Zare Ahmad Reza , Afsar Javad , Khakyzadeh Vahid , Khaledian Omid
Published: April 2015

New ionic liquid sulfonic acid functionalized pyridinium chloride

[Pyridine–SO3H]Cl was used for the synthesis of tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyran derivatives by the one‐pot three component condensation reaction of various aldehydes, dimedone and malononitrile at 95 ºC under solvent‐free conditions.
Catalytic Reduction of p‐Nitrophenol and Hexacyanoferrate (III) by Borohydride Using Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Reddy G. Bhagavanth , Ramakrishna D. , Madhusudhan A. , Ayodhya D. , Venkatesham M. , Veerabhadram G.
Published: April 2015

A simple and green approach for the synthesis of well‐stabilized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using gum Acacia (GA) is presented here. The gum acacia acts as the reductant and stabilizer. The synthesized gold nanoparticles were characterized by using ultraviolet visible (UV‐Vis), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The UV‐Vis study revealed a distinct surface plasmon resonance at 520 – 550 nm, due to the formation of AuNPs. FTIR analysis showed the evidence that –OH groups present in the gum matrix were responsible in reducing the tetra chloroauric acid into AuNPs. XRD studies confirmed the formation of well crystalline nanoparticles with fcc structure and the particle size ranges from 4 – 29 nm, as indicated by TEM analysis. The synthesized gold nanoparticles exhibited homogeneous catalytic activity. The two model reactions studied were the reduction of p‐nitro phenol and the reduction of hexacyanoferrate (III) by borohydride ions. Both the reactions were monitored by UV‐Vis spectroscopy. The kinetic investigations were carried out for the AuNPs‐catalyzed reactions at different temperatures and different amount of catalyst.
Synthesis and Characterization of (2E,2 E)‐3,3‐((9,9‐diocyl‐9H‐flourene‐2,7‐diyl)bis(4,1‐phenylene))bis(2‐cyanoacylic acid) as a Symmetrical Metal‐free Organic Dye
Authors: Hesari Z. , Hadavand B. Shirkavand , Hashemi M. Mahmoodi
Published: April 2015

In this study a novel symmetrical metal‐free organic dye for applications in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) was synthesized. This dye (D) was designed with A–π–D–π–A framework and synthesized with 9,9‐dioctylfluorene as electron donor, phenylene as π‐spacer and cyanoacetic acid as electron acceptor. The chemical structure of product was determined using UV‐Vis, FT‐IR, CNMR, HNMR spectroscopy techniques. The presence of a phenylene π‐bridge between the donor and the acceptor units and the di‐anchoring moieties in this structure led to enhancement of conjugation lengths and molar extinction coefficient (ε) that is promising for further improvement of the conversion efficiency of DSSCs.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Polyamines Containing Different Substitute Groups Via Chemical Oxidative Polymerization
Authors: Senol Dilek , Kaya ismet
Published: April 2015

In this study, polymers of substitute aromatic amine compounds were synthesized by chemical oxidative polycondensation in aqueous alkaline medium using NaOCl as oxidant. The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by FT‐IR, UV‐Vis and NMR analyses. The characterizations of synthesized compounds were made by fluorescence, TG‐DTA, DSC, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area measurements. In addition, electrochemical and electrical conductivity values of compounds were carried out with cyclic voltammetry (CV) and four points probe technique measurements, respectively. Synthesized polymers viewed structural change, optical, electrochemical and thermal differences.
Zero‐valent iron mediated degradation of sertraline – effect of H2O2 addition and application to sewage treatment plant effluent
Authors: de Lima Perini João Angelo , Fernandes Pupo Nogueira Raquel
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Sertraline (SER) is a widely used antidepressant persistent in sewage treatment plant (STP) effluents. Zero‐valent iron (ZVI) has been studied for degradation of organic contaminants. However, it usually results in poor mineralization efficiency. The effect of H2O2 on ZVI mediated degradation of SER was studied and compared with sole ZVI and the homogeneous Fenton process.

RESULTS

The effect of ZVI dose on SER degradation was different with 20 and 200 mesh particle sizes. The degradation rate was improved as the dose of larger particle (20 mesh) was increased, while no significant variation was observed with smaller particle (200 mesh). The SER degradation was hindered by the high Fe2+/H2O2 ratio as well as the sharp increase of pH when high ZVI doses or small particles were used. The addition of H2O2 (5 mmol L−1) to the ZVI system greatly improved SER degradation and mineralization even at low ZVI dose (0.5 g L−1). SER could be efficiently degraded in a STP effluent mediated by ZVI (20 mesh), especially when H2O2 was employed.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential of the ZVI/H2O2 process for degradation of SER in effluents from an STP was demonstrated, showing a significant improvement of target contaminant degradation and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Excluded Minors and the Ribbon Graphs of Knots
Authors: Moffatt Iain
Published: April 2015

In this article we consider minors of ribbon graphs (or, equivalently, cellularly embedded graphs). The theory of minors of ribbon graphs differs from that of graphs in that contracting loops is necessary and doing this can create additional vertices and components. Thus, the ribbon graph minor relation is incompatible with the graph minor relation. We discuss excluded minor characterizations of minor closed families of ribbon graphs. Our main result is an excluded minor characterization of the family of ribbon graphs that represent knot and link diagrams.
Decreasing intrapartum malpractice: Targeting the most injurious neonatal adverse events
Authors: Santos Palmira , Ritter Grant A. , Hefele Jennifer L. , Hendrich Ann , McCoy Christine Kocot
Published: April 2015

Medical malpractice expenditures are mainly due to the occurrence of preventable harm with some of the highest liability rates in obstetrics. Establishing delivery system models which decrease preventable harm and malpractice risk have had varied results over the last decade. We conducted a case study of a risk reduction labor and delivery model at 5 demonstration sites. The model included standardized protocols for the most injurious events, training teams in labor and delivery emergencies, rapid reporting with cause analysis for all unplanned events, and disclosing unexpected occurrences to patients using coordinated communication and documentation. Each of the model's components required buy in from the hospital's clinical and administrative leadership, and it also required collaboration, training, and continual feedback to labor and delivery nurses, doctors, midwives, and risk managers. The case study examined the key elements in the development of the model based on interviews of all team members and document review. We also completed data analysis pre and post implementation of the new model to assess the impact on event reporting and high liability occurrence rates. After 27 months post implementation, reporting of unintended events increased significantly (43 vs 84 per 1000 births, p < .01) while high‐risk malpractice events decreased significantly (14 vs 7 per 1000 births, p < .01). This decrease enabled money allotted for malpractice claims to be reallocated for the implementation of the new model at 42 additional labor and delivery sites. Due to these results, this multilevel integrated model showed promise.
[18F]6‐fluoro‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐ l‐phenylalanine – recent modern syntheses for an elusive radiotracer
Authors: Edwards Richard , Wirth Thomas
Published: April 2015

[18F]6‐fluoro‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐ l‐phenylalanine ([18F]F‐DOPA) has been known to be a useful radiotracer for over 30 years. Its widespread clinical use has been hampered by the lack of a robust, high yielding synthesis. This review summarises new developments in radiochemistry that are providing solutions to long standing problems involved in the synthesis of this important but elusive radiotracer. Considerable advances in nucleophilic synthesis have been achieved by optimising multistep strategies and using both hypervalent iodine chemistry and transition metal‐mediated fluorinations allowing for the production of high specific activity [18F]F‐DOPA.
Vascular risk factor burden correlates with cerebrovascular reactivity but not resting state coactivation in the default mode network
Authors: Tchistiakova Ekaterina , Crane David E. , Mikulis David J. , Anderson Nicole D. , Greenwood Carol E. , Black Sandra E. , MacIntosh Bradley J.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are prevalent among older adults and are often associated with cognitive decline and increased risk of stroke and dementia. Vascular risk factors (VRFs) are linked to WMH, yet the impact of multiple VRFs on gray matter function is still unclear. The goal of this study was to test for associations between the number of VRFs and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) and resting state (RS) coactivation among individuals with WMH.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐nine participants with suspected WMH were grouped based on the number of VRFs (subgroups: 0, 1, or ≥2). CVR and RS coactivation were measured with blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) imaging on a 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system during hypercapnia and rest, respectively. Default‐mode (DMN), sensory‐motor, and medial‐visual networks, generated using independent component analysis of RS‐BOLD, were selected as networks of interest (NOIs). CVR‐BOLD was analyzed using two methods: 1) a model‐based approach using CO2 traces, and 2) a dual‐regression (DR) approach using NOIs as spatial inputs. Average CVR and RS coactivations within NOIs were compared between VRF subgroups. A secondary analysis investigated the correlation between CVR and RS coactivation.

Results

VRF subgroup differences were detected using DR‐based CVR in the DMN (F20,2 = 5.17, P = 0.015) but not the model‐based CVR nor RS coactivation. DR‐based CVR was correlated with RS coactivation in the DMN (r2 = 0.28, P = 0.006) but not the sensory‐motor nor medial‐visual NOIs.

Conclusion

In individuals with WMH, CVR in the DMN was inversely associated with the number of VRFs and correlated with RS coactivation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1369–1376.
Asymmetry of cerebral blood flow measured with three‐dimensional pseudocontinuous arterial spin‐labeling mr imaging in temporal lobe epilepsy with and without mesial temporal sclerosis
Authors: Guo Xiaoqin , Xu Shangchen , Wang Guangbin , Zhang Yi , Guo Lingfei , Zhao Bin
Published: April 2015

Background

To investigate the asymmetry of quantitative cerebral blood flow (CBF) values in interictal temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients with (TLE‐MTS) and without (TLE‐no) mesial temporal sclerosis.

Methods

Twenty‐six TLE patients (14 TLE‐MTS/12 TLE‐no) and 22 controls were studied with a three‐dimensional whole‐brain pseudocontinuous arterial spin‐labeling technique at 3.0 Tesla. Regions of interest were placed at the bilateral hippocampal heads, amygdalas and temporal lobes to get the average regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and calculate asymmetry indices (AIs). Statistical parametric mapping detected the whole‐brain CBF changes of the two subgroups (right‐sided).

Results

AIs of the hippocampus and amygdala in TLE‐MTS and AIs of hippocampus in TLE‐no were significantly different versus controls (P < 0.001, P = 0.001, and P = 0.013). The lateralizing sensitivity increased to 96.154% by combining structural MRI and AIs of rCBF with optimal cutoff values. Hypoperfusion regions in the right TLE‐MTS mainly clustered in the bilateral temporal lobes, frontal lobes, insular lobes, and left caudate nucleus. The right TLE‐no showed hypoperfusion in the bilateral temporal lobes, frontal lobes, right insular lobe, parietal lobe, occipital lobe, and caudate nucleus.

Conclusion

Asymmetry of CBF in the TLE‐MTS and TLE‐no is different and improves MRI performance in lateralizing the TLE. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1386–1397.
Heterogeneity in intratumoral regions with rapid gadolinium washout correlates with estrogen receptor status and nodal metastasis
Authors: Chaudhury Baishali , Zhou Mu , Goldgof Dmitry B. , Hall Lawrence O. , Gatenby Robert A. , Gillies Robert J. , Patel Bhavika K. , Weinfurtner Robert J. , Drukteinis Jennifer S.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

To evaluate heterogeneity within tumor subregions or “habitats” via textural kinetic analysis on breast dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) for the classification of two clinical prognostic features; 1) estrogen receptor (ER)‐positive from ER‐negative tumors, and 2) tumors with four or more viable lymph node metastases after neoadjuvant chemotherapy from tumors without nodal metastases.

Materials and Methods

Two separate volumetric DCE‐MRI datasets were obtained at 1.5T, comprised of bilateral axial dynamic 3D T1‐weighted fat suppressed gradient recalled echo‐pulse sequences obtained before and after gadolinium‐based contrast administration. Representative image slices of breast tumors from 38 and 34 patients were used for ER status and lymph node classification, respectively. Four tumor habitats were defined based on their kinetic contrast enhancement characteristics. The heterogeneity within each habitat was quantified using textural kinetic features, which were evaluated using two feature selectors and three classifiers.

Results

Textural kinetic features from the habitat with rapid delayed washout yielded classification accuracies of 84.44% (area under the curve [AUC] 0.83) for ER and 88.89% (AUC 0.88) for lymph node status. The texture feature, information measure of correlation, most often chosen in cross‐validations, measures heterogeneity and provides accuracy approximately the same as with the best feature set.

Conclusion

Heterogeneity within habitats with rapid washout is highly predictive of molecular tumor characteristics and clinical behavior. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1421–1430.
Determination of florfenicol residues in broiler meat and liver samples using RP‐HPLC with UV–visible detection
Authors: Nasim Asma , Aslam Bilal , Javed Ijaz , Ali Asghar , Muhammad Faqir , Raza Ahmad , Sindhu Zia‐ud‐Din
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Broilers are vulnerable to various types of microorganisms, including Salmonella, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, resulting in multiple infections. Broad‐spectrum antibacterial drugs such as florfenicol (FF) are widely used in the treatment of such infections. Suspected residues of these drugs in body tissues of treated birds can be passed to humans through meat consumption and thus lead to serious ill effects on human health. The present study was designed to estimate the presence of FF residues in broiler meat and liver samples.

RESULTS

The mean residual concentrations of FF in broiler meat and liver samples were 311.42 ± 186.56 and 2585.44 ± 1759.71 µg kg−1 respectively, which are higher than their respective maximum residual limits (MRLs). The results showed that 126 and 24 samples were FF‐positive and FF‐negative respectively. Of the positive samples, 84 and 42 samples were above and below the MRL respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate the presence of FF residues in broiler meat and liver samples. Usage of this contaminated meat causes resistance in consumers and poses a public health threat. Thus there is a need to educate farmers about the ill effects of residual drugs on human health and their withdrawal times in poultry. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
High‐molecular‐weight glutenin subunit‐deficient mutants induced by ion beam and the effects of Glu‐1 loci deletion on wheat quality properties
Authors: Zhang Lujun , Chen Qiufang , Su Mingjie , Yan Biao , Zhang Xiangqi , Jiao Zhen
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

High‐molecular‐weight glutenin subunits (HMW‐GSs) play a critical role in determining the viscoelastic properties of wheat. Mutations induced by ion beam radiation have been applied to improve the yield and quality of crop. In this study, HMW‐GS‐deficient mutant lines were selected and the effects of Glu‐1 loci deletion on wheat quality properties were illustrated according to the analysis of dry seeds of common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Xiaoyan 81 treated with a nitrogen ion beam.

RESULTS

Three HMW‐GS‐deficient mutant lines were obtained and then detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Large‐chromosome‐fragment deletion resulted in specific deficiencies, and the deleted region sizes were determined using molecular markers. Agronomic characters, quantity and proportion of glutenins and dough microstructure of the deletion lines all proved to be quite different from those of wild‐type Xiaoyan 81. Analysis of quality properties suggested that GluA1− had superior property parameters, while GluB1− and GluD1− both showed a significant decrease in quality properties compared with Xiaoyan 81.

CONCLUSION

The effects of the three Glu‐1 loci on flour and dough quality‐related parameters should be Glu‐D1 > Glu‐B1 > Glu‐A1. Ion beam radiation can be used as a mutagen to create new crop mutants. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Volumetric MRI analysis pre‐ and post‐Transoral robotic surgery for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Chiffer Rebecca C. , Schwab Richard J. , Keenan Brendan T. , Borek Ryan C. , Thaler Erica R.
Published: April 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To quantitatively measure volumetric changes in upper airway soft tissue structures using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pre‐ and post transoral robotic surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA‐TORS).

Study Design

Prospective, nonrandomized, institutional board‐approved study.

Methods

Apneics undergoing OSA‐TORS, which included bilateral posterior hemiglossectomy with limited pharyngectomy and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, had upper airway MRIs pre‐ and postoperatively. Changes (percent and absolute values) in upper airway and surrounding soft tissue volumes were calculated. We assessed whether there were significant volumetric changes and if changes correlated with apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) changes.

Results

Nineteen MRIs and 18 polysomnograms were analyzed pre‐ and postoperation. Total airway volume increased by 19.4% (P = 0.030). Soft palate and tongue volumes decreased by 18.3% (P = 0.002) and 5.8% (P = 0.013), respectively. Retropalatal and total lateral wall volumes decreased by 49.8% (P = 0.0001) and 17.9% (P = 0.008), respectively. Changes in other structures were not significant. Eleven patients had surgical success, with a mean AHI decrease of 52.9; six were nonsuccesses with a mean AHI decrease of 4.5 (P =0.006). Decreased retropalatal lateral wall volume correlated with decreased AHI.

Conclusion

Airway, tongue, soft palate, and lateral wall volumes change significantly after OSA‐TORS. Changes in the volume of the lateral walls correlated with changes in AHI. Volumetric upper airway MRI may be a helpful tool to better understand reasons for surgical success.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1988–1995, 2015