bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption of lead(II) from aqueous solution using a poly(ethyleneimine)‐functionalized organic–inorganic hybrid silica prepared by hydrothermal‐assisted surface grafting method
Authors: He Lu , Liu Dan‐Dan , Wang Bing‐Bing , Xu Hong‐Bo
Published: May 2014

The poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI)‐functionalized organic–inorganic hybrid silica was prepared by a hydrothermal‐assisted surface grafting technique. Static adsorption experiment results showed that PEI‐functionalized hybrid silica had high static adsorption capacity of 68.1 mg g−1, which was 1.3 times as much as that of the sorbents by conventional heating method. PEI‐functionalized hybrid silica displayed stable adsorption ability for Pb(II) ions in the range of pH 4–8. An equilibrium state was reached within 30 min. Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherm models were used to fit the equilibrium data, and it was found that the Langmuir adsorption model provided good fit. Kinetic studies indicated that the adsorption followed a pseudo‐second‐order model. Various thermodynamic parameters, such as ΔGo, ΔHo and ΔSo, were evaluated with results indicating that this system was a spontaneous and endothermic process. The results indicated that PEI‐functionalized hybrid silica could be employed as an effective material for the adsorption of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of centralization of pancreatic cancer surgery on resection rates and survival
Authors: Gooiker G A , Lemmens V E P P , Besselink M G , Busch O R , Bonsing B A , Molenaar I Q , Tollenaar R A E M , de Hingh I H J T , Wouters M W J M
Published: May 2014

Background

Centralization of pancreatic surgery has been shown to reduce postoperative mortality. It is unknown whether resection rates and survival have also improved. The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of nationwide centralization of pancreatic surgery on resection rates and long-term survival.

Methods

All patients diagnosed in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2009 with cancer of the pancreatic head were identified in the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Changes in referral pattern, resection rates and survival after pancreatoduodenectomy were analysed. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess the impact of hospital volume (20 or more procedures per year) on survival after resection.

Results

Between 2000 and 2009, 11 160 patients were diagnosed with cancer of the pancreatic head. The resection rate increased from 10·7 per cent in 2000–2004 to 15·3 per cent in 2005–2009 (P < 0·001). No significant difference in survival after resection was observed between the two intervals (P = 0·135), although survival was significantly better in high-volume hospitals (median survival 18 months versus 16 months in low/medium-volume hospitals; P = 0·017). After adjustment for patient and tumour characteristics, high hospital volume remained associated with better overall survival after resection (hazard ratio 0·70, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·58 to 0·84; P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Centralization of pancreatic cancer surgery led to increased resection rates. High-volume centres had significantly better survival rates. Centralization improves patient outcomes and should be encouraged.
Patterns of presentation and failure in patients with gliomatosis cerebri treated with partial‐brain radiation therapy
Authors: Kandula Shravan , Saindane Amit M. , Prabhu Roshan S. , Hanasoge Sheela , Patel Kirtesh R. , Shu Hui‐Kuo , Curran Walter J. , Crocker Ian R.
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

The patterns of lobar involvement, optimal treatment, and disease course among patients with gliomatosis cerebri (GC) have not been fully characterized. The current study evaluates the clinical presentations and outcomes for patients with GC treated with radiation therapy (RT) at our institution.

METHODS

A total of 26 patients (25 with follow‐up) with GC were diagnosed and treated between January 2004 and June 2012. Inclusion criteria consisted of brain magnetic resonance imaging and neuroradiology confirmation of contiguous involvement of ≥ 3 lobes/lobar equivalents with preservation of neural architecture. Patients were treated with either partial‐brain RT to involved tumor (25 patients) or whole‐brain RT (1 patient). The median RT dose was 54.0 Gray. The median follow‐up was 17.3 months.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients at the time of diagnosis was 57 years. Twenty‐one patients (81%) and 5 patients (19%) had 3 to 6 and ≥ 7 involved lobes/lobar equivalents, respectively. The median progression‐free survival and overall survival were 7.4 months and 14.9 months, respectively. Fifteen patients experienced radiographic disease progression after partial‐brain RT, 14 of whom (93%) developed infield disease recurrence. On univariate analysis, higher tumor grade and type II GC (with focal mass) were associated with a poorer progression‐free survival. The extent of lobar involvement and chemotherapy were not associated with overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Even with partial‐brain RT, nearly all disease recurrences were infield and clinical outcomes were similar to previous GC series, thereby suggesting that whole‐brain RT is not necessary for this patient population. A greater number of involved lobes did not correlate with inferior outcomes. Further studies are necessary to establish more uniform and optimal treatments for this rare disease. Cancer 2014;120:2713–2720. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Highly Active PtAu Nanowire Networks for Formic Acid Oxidation
Authors: Xiao Meiling , Li Songtao , Zhu Jianbing , Li Kui , Liu Changpeng , Xing Wei
Published: May 2014

The PtAu alloy nanowire networks (NWNs) were synthesized directly in an aqueous solution using Triton X‐114 as the structure‐inducing agent. The NMNs formed based on the oriented‐attachment growth mechanism, and they exhibited dramatically enhanced electrocatalytic activity for formic acid electrooxidation compared with commercial Pt black. Besides the ensemble effect, the advantages of the unique structure, including superior electrical conductivity and faster electron‐transfer for the electrochemical process, were regarded as the contributors to the superior catalytic activity of the as‐prepared PtAu NWNs.
Direct Oxidative Amidation between N,N‐dimethylanilines and Anhydrides Using Metal‐Organic Framework [Cu2(EDB)2(BPY)] as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Dang Giao H. , Nguyen Thanh D. , Le Dung T. , Truong Thanh , Phan Nam T. S.
Published: May 2014

A crystalline porous metal‐organic framework [Cu2(EDB)2(BPY)] was synthesized and used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the direct oxidative amidation between N,N‐dimethylanilines and anhydrides to form tertiary amides as the principal products. The [Cu2(EDB)2(BPY)] exhibited similar activity as compared to that of [Cu2(BDC)2(BPY)], [Cu2(BDC)2(DABCO)], MOF‐143, and other common homogeneous salt catalysts. The optimal reaction conditions employed were [Cu2(EDB)2(BPY)] (10 % mol), TBHP (2 equiv), pyridine (1 equiv) in CH3CN at 80 °C over 2 h. The Cu2(EDB)2(BPY) could be separated from the reaction mixture by filtration, and could be recovered and reused several times without a significant degradation in catalytic activity and selectivity. Furthermore, generality of the optimal conditions was confirmed by employing various N,N‐dimethylaniline and anhydride derivatives.
Role of free radical in atherosclerosis, diabetes and dyslipidaemia: larger‐than‐life
Authors: Singh Randhir , Devi Sushma , Gollen Rakesh
Published: May 2014

During the past few decades, there have been numerous studies related to free radical chemistry. Free radicals including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species are generated by the human body by various endogenous systems, exposure to different physiochemical conditions, or pathological states, and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of many diseases. These free radicals are also the common by‐products of many oxidative biochemical reactions in cells. When free radicals overwhelm the body's ability to regulate them, a condition known as oxidative stress ensues. They adversely alter lipids, proteins, and DNA, which trigger a number of human diseases. In a number of pathophysiological conditions, the delicate equilibrium between free radical production and antioxidant capability is distorted, leading to oxidative stress and increased tissue injury. ROS which are mainly produced by vascular cells are implicated as possible underlying pathogenic mechanisms in a progression of cardiovascular diseases including ischemic heart disease, atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmia, hypertension, and diabetes. This review summarizes the key roles played by free radicals in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, diabetes, and dyslipidaemia. Although not comprehensive, this review also provides a brief perspective on some of the current research being conducted in this area for a better understanding of the role free radicals play in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, diabetes, and dyslipidaemia. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AGEs and chronic subclinical inflammation in diabetes: disorders of immune system
Authors: Hu Hang , Jiang Hongfei , Ren Haitao , Hu Xinlei , Wang Xingang , Han Chunmao
Published: May 2014

Chronic subclinical inflammation represents a risk factor of type 2 diabetes and several diabetes complications, including neuropathy and atherosclerosis including macro‐vasculopathy and micro‐vasculopathy. However, the inflammatory response in the diabetic wound was shown to be remarkably hypocellular, unregulated and ineffective. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and one of its receptors, RAGE, were involved in inducing chronic immune imbalance in diabetic patients. Such interactions attracts immune cell into diffused glycated tissue and activates these cells to induce inflammatory damage, but disturbs the normal immune rhythm in diabetic wound. Traditional measurements of AGEs are high‐performance liquid chromatography and immunohistochemistry staining, but their application faces the limitations including complexity, cost and lack of reproducibility. A new noninvasive method emerged in 2004, using skin autofluorescence as indicator for AGEs accumulation. It had been reported to be informative in evaluating the chronic risk of diabetic patients. Studies have indicated therapeutic potentials of anti‐AGE recipes. These recipes can reduce AGE absorption/de novo formation, block AGE–RAGE interaction and arrest downstream signaling after RAGE activation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diabetic conditions downregulate the expression of CD2AP in podocytes via PI3‐K/Akt signalling
Authors: Ha Tae‐Sun , Hong Eun‐Jeong , Han Gi‐Dong
Published: May 2014

Background

Proteinuria is typically accompanied by structural and compositional changes of the foot processes and of the slit diaphragms between podocytes. CD2‐associated protein (CD2AP) in podocytes serves as an adaptor protein binding to nephrin and podocin, anchoring these slit diaphragm proteins to actin filaments of podocyte cytoskeleton and sending signals inward or outward.

Methods

In the present study, we prepared streptozotocin‐induced diabetic renal tissues and cultured podocytes in diabetic conditions to investigate podocyte phenotypical changes, including quantitative and distributional changes of CD2AP protein and search for the signalling mechanisms in diabetic conditions. We prepared cultured rat glomerular epithelial cells and mouse podocytes to study how high glucose and advanced glycosylation end products (AGE) induce phenotypical changes of cultured podocyte, under (1) normal glucose (5 mM, = control), (2) high glucose (30 mM), (3) AGE‐added or (4) high glucose plus AGE‐added conditions.

Results

According to diabetic duration, density of CD2AP in renal tissue of experimental diabetic nephropathy became conglomerulated and diminished. In cultured podocytes, CD2AP co‐localized with nephrin and zonula occludens‐1 by confocal imaging. High glucose and high glucose plus AGE induced the relocalization and concentration of CD2AP at internal cytoplasmic and perinuclear areas of podocytes. High glucose plus AGE‐added condition also decreased CD2AP protein amount and its mRNA expression compared with normal glucose or osmotic control conditions. In addition, LY294002, a phosphoinositide 3‐kinase inhibitor, prevented the quantitative and distributional changes of CD2AP induced by high glucose and AGE.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that diabetic conditions induce the phenotypical changes of podocyte CD2AP possibly via phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/Akt signalling. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying species of moths (Lepidoptera) from Baihua Mountain, Beijing, China, using DNA barcodes
Authors: Liu Xiao F. , Yang Cong H. , Han Hui L. , Ward Robert D. , Zhang Ai‐bing
Published: May 2014

DNA barcoding has become a promising means for the identification of organisms of all life‐history stages. Currently, distance‐based and tree‐based methods are most widely used to define species boundaries and uncover cryptic species. However, there is no universal threshold of genetic distance values that can be used to distinguish taxonomic groups. Alternatively, DNA barcoding can deploy a “character‐based” method, whereby species are identified through the discrete nucleotide substitutions. Our research focuses on the delimitation of moth species using DNA‐barcoding methods. We analyzed 393 Lepidopteran specimens belonging to 80 morphologically recognized species with a standard cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequencing approach, and deployed tree‐based, distance‐based, and diagnostic character‐based methods to identify the taxa. The tree‐based method divided the 393 specimens into 79 taxa (species), and the distance‐based method divided them into 84 taxa (species). Although the diagnostic character‐based method found only 39 so‐identifiable species in the 80 species, with a reduction in sample size the accuracy rate substantially improved. For example, in the Arctiidae subset, all 12 species had diagnostics characteristics. Compared with traditional morphological method, molecular taxonomy performed well. All three methods enable the rapid delimitation of species, although they have different characteristics and different strengths. The tree‐based and distance‐based methods can be used for accurate species identification and biodiversity studies in large data sets, while the character‐based method performs well in small data sets and can also be used as the foundation of species‐specific biochips.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Characterization of the Charge‐Transfer Salt (BEDT‐TTF)[Fe(C2O4)Cl2](CH2Cl2), {BEDT‐TTF = Bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene}
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Yan , Gao Zengqiang , Chang Guangcai , Su Shaokui , Wang Dongwei , Guo Yanjun , Zhu Daoben
Published: May 2014

The synthesis, crystal structure, Raman spectra, conductivity, and magnetism of the title charge‐transfer salt (1) composed of BEDT‐TTF [bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene], one‐dimensional [Fe(C2O4)Cl2–]n, and the solvent CH2Cl2, are described and interpreted. Electrochemical oxidation of neutral BEDT‐TTF in the presence of [(C2H5)3NH][Fe(C2O4)Cl2] in a CH2Cl2/CH3OH solution yields crystals of 1, which crystallizes in triclinic form. In 1, two donor molecules stack in a face‐to‐face manner as a BEDT‐TTF dimer. The BEDT‐TTF dimers form a (4,4) grid in the ab plane. The cavity of the (4,4) grid is occupied by two CH2Cl2 molecules. The donor layers are separated by sheets of [Fe(C2O4)Cl2–]n anions with a zigzag chain along the a axis. There are S···S interactions between the donors, and S···Cl interactions between the donor and the anion. On the χ vs. T plot, a broad maximum is observed around 45 K, showing the existence of antiferromagnetic interactions between the metal atoms in the low‐dimensional system. The formal charge of the donor molecules is assigned 1.0+ based on the bond lengths of the TTF core and on the Raman spectra. The material is a semiconductor with σrt = 1.8 × 10–5 S/cm.
Chiral Self‐Sorting of trans‐Chelating Chiral Ligands upon Formation of PdII Complexes
Authors: Meyer‐Eppler Georg , Topić Filip , Schnakenburg Gregor , Rissanen Kari , Lützen Arne
Published: May 2014

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Arne Lützen at the University of Bonn, Germany. The cover image shows two dissymmetric bis(3‐pyridyl) ligands based on a planar chiral pseudo‐ortho‐disubstituted [2.2]paracyclophane scaffold. Upon forming a mononuclear [ML2] complex with palladium(II) ions, these ligands act in a trans‐chelating manner and undergo complete chiral self‐sorting.
Preparation of mixed lanthanides‐immobilized magnetic nanoparticles for selective enrichment and identification of phosphopeptides by MS
Authors: Zhai Rui , Jiao Fenglong , Feng Duan , Hao Feiran , Li Jiabin , Li Nannan , Yan Hui , Wang Huanhuan , Jin Zuyao , Zhang Yangjun , Qian Xiaohong
Published: May 2014

A new type of mixed lanthanides–immobilized (Tb3+, Tm3+, Ho3+, Lu3+) magnetic nanoparticles, Fe3O4@TCPP‐DOTA‐M3+, was prepared with a particle size of approximately 30 nm. A model protein, α‐casein, and a protein mixture of α‐casein and BSA (1:100) were first used to test the phosphopeptide enrichment efficiency of the newly developed magnetic nanoparticles. For the model protein α‐casein, 19 phosphopeptides were identified with the newly developed materials. Even in the tryptic digest of α‐casein and BSA (1:100), 16 phosphopeptides were easily detected, suggesting that the novel materials possess high selectivity in phosphopeptide enrichment. To evaluate the phosphopeptide enrichment efficiency in a real biological sample, the materials were used to capture phosphopeptides in the tryptic digests of an extract of HeLa cells. In total, 9048 phosphopeptides corresponding to 2103 phosphoproteins were identified in a single mass spectrometric analysis, indicating the great potential of the new materials for practical applications. Compared with metal oxide‐based enrichment methods, the newly developed materials are convenient to prepare and easy to handle, and they save time in the phosphopeptide enrichment procedure, making these materials a good choice for highly selective and sensitive phosphopeptide enrichment in future phosphoproteome analyses.
A High‐Performance Microbial Battery Based on the Chemotactic Biofilm of a Motile Microaerophilic Bacterium
Authors: Parthasarathy Meera , Narayanan Anantha , Narasimhan Siddarth , Alex Sruthi Ann , Ogirala Vivek , Kalidasan Viveka
Published: May 2014

Motile bacteria adapt themselves to changes in chemical environment by a stochastic mechanism called chemotaxis, which plays a major role in many bacterial processes. We report here for the first time that the preferential migration of bacteria across a nutrient gradient can be harnessed to generate useful electric power. The chemotactic battery demonstrated in the present work involves a nutrient‐localized anode toward which bacteria activated by starvation migrate and generate electricity by oxidation of the nutrient molecules. The chemotactic battery yields a significant power density (25±2 W m−2). Systematic investigation on biofilm morphology and electroactivity reveals significant differences between chemotactic and non‐chemotactic configurations. In addition, the chemotactic setup has also been integrated in the anode chamber of a microbial fuel cell to improve microbial biofilm properties. Thus the results of the study could be used to design miniature microbial batteries for portable applications as well as to improve the performance of microbial fuel cells.
Clinical Characteristics Associated with Premature Termination from Outpatient Psychotherapy for Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Jordan Jennifer , McIntosh Virginia V. W. , Carter Frances A. , Joyce Peter R. , Frampton Christopher M. A. , Luty Suzanne E. , McKenzie Janice M. , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: May 2014

Aim

The literature on clinical characteristics associated with premature termination of treatment (PTT) is beset with conflicting and non‐replicated findings. This study explores clinical characteristics potentially associated with PTT in a randomised controlled outpatient psychotherapy trial for anorexia nervosa (AN).

Methods

Participants were 56 women aged 17–40 years with spectrum AN. The completer group (n = 35) included those completing at least 15/20 planned sessions with the remainder of the sample comprising the PTT group (n = 21). Variables examined included demographic factors, psychosocial functioning, psychiatric history, lifetime comorbidity, temperament and eating disorder characteristics. Logistic regression was used to examine significant variables. A Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used to illustrate time taken to PTT.

Results

The mean number of sessions in the PTT group was 8.1. Lower self‐transcendence scores on the Temperament and Character Inventory were associated with PTT.

Conclusions

Recognising and addressing personality factors have the potential to enhance retention in treatment. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
A computational methodology for two‐dimensional fluid flows
Authors: Alam Jahrul M. , Walsh Raymond P. , Alamgir Hossain M. , Rose Andrew M.
Published: May 2014

A weighted residual collocation methodology for simulating two‐dimensional shear‐driven and natural convection flows has been presented. Using a dyadic mesh refinement, the methodology generates a basis and a multiresolution scheme to approximate a fluid flow. To extend the benefits of the dyadic mesh refinement approach to the field of computational fluid dynamics, this article has studied an iterative interpolation scheme for the construction and differentiation of a basis function in a two‐dimensional mesh that is a finite collection of rectangular elements. We have verified that, on a given mesh, the discretization error is controlled by the order of the basis function. The potential of this novel technique has been demonstrated with some representative examples of the Poisson equation. We have also verified the technique with a dynamical core of a two‐dimensional flow in primitive variables. An excellent result has been observed—on resolving a shear layer and on the conservation of the potential and the kinetic energies—with respect to previously reported benchmark simulations. In particular, the shear‐driven simulation at CFL = 2.5 (Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy) and (Reynolds number) exhibits a linear speed up of CPU time with an increase of the time step, Δt. For the natural convection flow, the conversion of the potential energy to the kinetic energy and the conservation of total energy is resolved by the proposed method. The computed streamlines and the velocity fields have been demonstrated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulatory Framework for Utilities in Canada Versus United States
Authors: Jung James
Published: May 2014

For companies in the utilities sector, the regulatory framework is typically the primary driver of business risk. However, this framework is anything but uniform and can differ vastly from one jurisdiction to the next. Each state and province has its own regulatory regime, thereby exposing utilities to varying degrees of risk. In addition, there are pronounced differences between Canada and the United States.
Electric Generation: Lessons Learned in Power Plant Decommissioning and Demolition
Authors: Hope Ryan
Published: May 2014

Owners are decontaminating, decommissioning, and demolishing (DD&D) aging power plants in the Americas and Europe as the utility market undergoes structural changes resulting from changing economics, greater power‐generation efficiencies, and changes in environmental and regulatory requirements. Whatever the reason an owner elects to decommission and demolish a power plant, it is a complex project with potential pitfalls, many of which can be identified in advance and mitigated.
Natural Gas & Electricity Pricing: Parallel Play: Better Coordination Between Electric and Gas Reduces Costs and Prices
Authors: Bodell Tanya
Published: May 2014

From an economic perspective, the natural gas and electricity industries are more integrated than ever before. Natural gas increasingly fuels the power‐generation sector, and the power‐generation sector increasingly serves as the major source of price‐responsive swing demand for natural gas markets. This relationship can be expected to strengthen as coal plants retire and new natural gas plants come online.
Preparation of Hydrophobic 2‐Phenylthiohydroquinone Dimers and Evaluation of Their Photophysical Properties
Authors: Kamimura Akio , Takechi Yasuko , Watanabe Ryusuke
Published: May 2014

Tetra‐O‐alkylated hydrophobic 2‐phenylthiohydroquinone dimers were prepared by the Fe(III)‐mediated oxidative dimerization. The prepared dimers were soluble in hexane and served as fluorescent dyes in the hydrophobic solvent. Their physical properties were also examined.
Effect of rotary instrument associated with different irrigation techniques on removing calcium hydroxide dressing
Authors: Faria Gisele , Viola Kennia Scapin , Kuga Milton Carlos , Garcia Arturo Javier Aranda , Daher Vanessa Bossolani , De Pasquali Leonardo MÁrio Francisco , Tanomaru‐Filho MÁrio
Published: May 2014

Calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] residues in root canals may compromise sealing of filling and endodontic treatment success. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of using rotary instrument associated with EndoActivator, EndoVac, passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and conventional needle irrigation (CNI), in Ca(OH)2 removal from root canal, by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Sixty‐six human canines were prepared with the Protaper system up to F5 and filled with Ca(OH)2. After 7 days, Ca(OH)2 was removed with rotary instrument F5 associated with the irrigation techniques used in each group (n = 15): GI (CNI), GII (EndoVac), GIII (EndoActivator) and GIV (PUI). In all groups 15 mL of 2.5% NaOCl and 3 mL of 17% EDTA were used for Ca(OH)2 removal. The Ca(OH)2 residues was evaluated by SEM in the middle and apical third using a system of scores. The results were analyzed by the Kruskal‐Wallis and Dunn tests (α = 0.05). None of the techniques completely removed the Ca(OH)2 from root canals. There was no difference between EndoActivator, EndoVac and PUI (P > 0.05), but the three techniques removed more Ca(OH)2 than the CNI (P < 0,05), in the middle and apical thirds of the root canal. It was concluded that the rotary instrument combined with EndoActivator, EndoVac, and PUI was shown to be more efficient than the rotary instrument combined with the CNI in removing Ca(OH)2 from the root canal. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:642–646, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tips for anatomical hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma by the Glissonean pedicle approach (with videos)
Authors: Yamamoto Masakazu , Katagiri Satoshi , Ariizumi Shun‐ichi , Kotera Yoshihito , Takahashi Yutaka , Egawa Hiroto
Published: May 2014

Couinaud described three fundamental approaches at the hepatic hilus in liver surgery. The Glissonean pedicle approach at the hepatic hilus is one of these procedures and provides anatomical hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The Glissonean pedicle approach was introduced by Couinaud and Takasaki in the early 1980s. The key of the Glissonean pedicle approach is clamping the pedicle first, secondly confirming the territory, which includes the HCC, and finally dissecting the liver parenchyma. This procedure prevents intrahepatic metastasis of HCC, which spreads along the portal vein and improves the overall survival after surgery. Another key feature is that we do not have to consider any variations of the vascular elements in the hepatoduodenal ligament under the hilar plate. This procedure allows an approach to the tertiary branches, which feed a smaller anatomical area than Couinaud's segment. We refer to this area as a cone unit of the liver. The procedure is also available in laparoscopic hepatectomy and provides new knowledge of the surgical anatomy, especially for small anatomical liver resection in the cirrhotic liver.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of 1‐(Substituted phenoxyacetoxy)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl or thien‐2‐yl)methylphosphonates
Authors: Wang Tao , Wang Wei , Peng Hao , He Hongwu
Published: May 2014

A series of novelO,O‐dimethyl 1‐(substituted phenoxyacetoxy)‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl or thien‐2‐yl)methylphosphonates6a,6b,6c,6d,6e,6f,6g,6h,6i,6j,6k,6l,6m,6nand7a,7b,7c,7dwere synthesized. Their structures were confirmed by IR,1H NMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analyses. The results of preliminary bioassays show that some of the title compounds exhibit moderate to good herbicidal and fungicidal activities. For example, the title compounds6a,6c,6l,6m, and7dpossess 90–100% inhibition against most of the tested plants at the dosage of 1500 g ai/ha, whereas the title compounds6b,6g,6hand6npossess 92–100% inhibition againstFusarium oxysporum,Phyricularia grisea,Botrytis cinereapers,Gibberella zeae,Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, andCercospora beticolaat the concentration of 50 mg/L.
An Efficient, Multicomponent Synthesis of Pyrazolyl Triazolo Thiadiazinyl Chromen ‐ 2 ‐ Ones
Authors: Pavurala Sreenu , Vedula Rajeswar Rao
Published: May 2014

One‐pot synthesis of 3‐(3‐(3,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)‐7H‐[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazin‐6‐yl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐ones was achieved via the multicomponent reaction of purpald, acetyl acetone, and different derivatives of 3‐(2‐bromo‐acetyl)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐one in absolute ethanol. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by analytical and spectral data.
Synthesis of 3‐Acetyl‐4‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐one Derivatives
Authors: Nikam B. P. , Kappe T.
Published: May 2014

The cyclization of aryl ketone anilides 3 with diethyl malonate to affords 4‐hydroxy‐6‐phenyl‐6H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]‐pyridin‐2,5‐diones 4 in good yields. 3‐Acetyl‐4‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐ones 5 are obtained by ring‐opening reaction of 4‐hydroxy‐6‐phenyl‐6H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]‐pyridin‐2,5‐diones 4 in the presence of 1,2‐diethylene glycol. The reaction of 3‐acetyl‐4‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐ones 5 with hydroxylamine hydrochloride produces 4‐hydroxy‐3‐[N‐hydroxyethanimidoyl]‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐ones 6 from which 3‐alkyloxyiminoacetyl‐4‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐ones 7 are obtained by reacting with alkyl bromides or iodides in the presence of anhydrous potassium carbonate with moderate yields. The similar compounds can be synthesized on refluxing 3‐acetyl‐4‐hydroxy‐1‐phenylpyridin‐2(1H)‐ones 5 with substituted hydroxylamine hydrochloride in the presence of sodium bicarbonate with good yields. Most of the synthesized compounds are characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopic methods.
Synthesis of 3‐Thiophenchromone by Stille Cross‐coupling Palladium on Charcoal‐Catalyzed Ligand‐Free
Authors: Yang Qian , Zhang Zunting , Liang Bo
Published: May 2014

A new concise, facile, and efficient method for synthesis of 3‐thiophenchromone was accomplished in more than over 80% yield starting from formation of the substituted 3‐iodochromones and tetrathiophentins by Stille cross‐coupling reaction in the presence of palladium on charcoal‐catalyzed ligand‐free under mild conditions.
A Convenient and Efficient Synthesis of 2‐Thioxoquinazolinone Derivatives via Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Zhang Qiang , Gong Feng , Cao Zhiling , Huo Yunfeng
Published: May 2014

The synthesis of 2‐thioxoquinazolinone derivatives was achieved by condensation of isatoic anhydride, primary amine, and carbon disulfide under microwave irradiation. This convenient and efficient method affords the desired products with good to excellent yields. Satisfactory infrared spectroscopy, 1H NMR, and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (electrospray ionization) spectra were obtained for all compounds described.
Dihydroquinazolino[3,2‐a][1,5]benzodiazepines: Synthesis and Computational Study of Reductive N‐Heterocyclization of N‐(2‐Nitrobenzoyl)‐1,5‐benzodiazepin‐2‐ones
Authors: Janciene Regina , Mikulskiene Gema , Javorskis Tomas , Vektariene Ausra , Vektaris Gytis , Kosychova Lidija
Published: May 2014

A number of 6,7‐dihydroquinazolino[3,2‐a][1,5]benzodiazepin‐13(5H)‐ones were prepared utilizing the coupling of readily available 5‐acyl‐1,3,4,5‐tetrahydro‐2H‐1,5‐benzodiazepin‐2‐ones with 2‐nitrobenzoyl chloride followed by a reductive N‐heterocyclization. 3‐Methylsubstituted 1‐(2‐nitrobenzoyl)‐1,5‐benzodiazepinone derivatives did not cyclize under the reductive N‐heterocyclization conditions. The possible mechanism of this heterocyclization was discussed, and it was demonstrated that the hydroxylamine intermediate was the initiator of this reaction. To clarify the reasons of different reactivities of various 1,5‐benzodiazepine derivatives, the quantum‐chemical reactivity descriptors of the hydroxylamine intermediates were calculated and evaluated.
HR‐MAS NMR metabolomics of ‘Swingle’ citrumelo rootstock genetically modified to overproduce proline
Authors: de Oliveira Caroline S. , Carlos Eduardo F. , Vieira Luiz G. E. , Lião Luciano M. , Alcantara Glaucia B.
Published: May 2014

The accumulation of proline is a typical physiological response to abiotic stresses in higher plants. ‘Swingle’ citrumelo, an important rootstock for citrus production, has been modified with a mutated Δ1‐pyrroline‐5‐carboxylate synthetase gene (VaP5CSF129A) linked to the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter to induce the overproduction of free proline. This paper presents a comparative metabolomic study of nontransgenic versus transgenic ‘Swingle’ citrumelo plants with high endogenous proline. 1H high‐resolution magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and multivariate analysis showed significant differences in some metabolites between the nontransgenic and transgenic leaves and roots. The overproduction of proline has reduced the sucrose content in transgenic leaves, revealing a metabolic cost for these plants. In roots, the high level of free proline acts for the adjustment of cation–anion balance, causing the reduction of acetic acid content. The same sucrose level in roots indicates that they can be considered as sucrose sink. Similar behavior may be waited for fruits produced on transgenic rootstock. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrafast in vivo diffusion imaging of stroke at 21.1 T by spatiotemporal encoding
Authors: Leftin Avigdor , Rosenberg Jens T. , Solomon Eddy , Calixto Bejarano Fabian , Grant Samuel C. , Frydman Lucio
Published: May 2014

Purpose

This study quantifies in vivo ischemic stroke brain injuries in rats using ultrahigh‐field single‐scan MRI methods to assess variations in apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs).

Methods

Magnitude and diffusion‐weighted spatiotemporally encoded imaging sequences were implemented on a 21.1 T imaging system, and compared with spin‐echo and echo‐planar imaging diffusion‐weighted imaging strategies. ADC maps were calculated and used to evaluate the sequences according to the statistical comparisons of the ipsilateral and contralateral ADC measurements at 24, 48, and 72 h poststroke.

Results

Susceptibility artifacts resulting from normative anatomy and pathological stroke conditions were particularly intense at 21.1 T. These artifacts strongly distorted single‐shot diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging experiments, but were reduced in four‐segment interleaved echo‐planar imaging acquisitions. By contrast, nonsegmented diffusion‐weighted spatiotemporally encoded images were largely immune to field‐dependent artifacts. Effects of stroke were apparent in both magnitude images and ADC maps of all sequences. When stroke recovery was followed by ADC variations, spatiotemporally encoded, echo‐planar imaging, and spin‐echo acquisitions revealed statistically significant increase in ADCs.

Conclusions

Consideration of experiment duration, image quality, and mapped ADC values provided by spatiotemporally encoded demonstrates that this single‐shot acquisition is a method of choice for high‐throughput, ultrahigh‐field in vivo stroke quantification. Magn Reson Med 73:1483–1489, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative lobbying research: advances, shortcomings and recommendations
Authors: Kanol Direnç
Published: May 2014

This review article suggests that there is a new school of comparative lobbying emerging. However, this development is taking place only gradually. Unlike the earlier studies, which studied corporatism/pluralism, outside lobbying and lobbying regulations, the new comparativists are mainly focusing on inside lobbying strategies and success as a function of country‐level factors. Yet, the literature still suffers from underdeveloped theories. I stress that our knowledge can be improved with better theorizing. Better theories, in turn, can be formulated by improving the use of quantitative data gathering, qualitative research, formal models and better communication between researchers working with different methodologies in different disciplines. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetic study on the aromatic nucleophilic substitution reaction of 3,6‐dichloro‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine by biothiols
Authors: Andrade‐Acuña Daniela , Santos José G. , Tiznado William , Cañete Álvaro , Aliaga Margarita E.
Published: May 2014

The aromatic nucleophilic substitution reaction of 3,6‐dichloro‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine (DCT) with a series of biothiols RSH: (cysteine, homocysteine, cysteinyl–glycine, N‐acetylcysteine, and glutathione) is subjected to a kinetic investigation. The reactions are studied by following spectrophotometrically the disappearance of DCT at 370 nm. In the case of an excess of N‐acetylcysteine and glutathione, clean pseudo first‐order rate constants (kobs1) are found. However, for cysteine, homocysteine and cysteinyl–glycine, two consecutive reactions are observed. The first one is the nucleophilic aromatic substitution of the chlorine by the sulfhydryl group of these biothiols (RSH) and the second one is the intramolecular and intermolecular nucleophilic aromatic substitutions of their alkylthio with the amine group of RSH to give the di‐substituted compound. Therefore, in these cases, two pseudo first‐order rate constants (kobs1 and kobs2, respectively) are found under biothiol excess. Plots of kobs1 versus free thiol concentration at constant pH are linear, with the slope (kN) independent of pH (from 6.8 to 7.4). The kinetic data analysis (Brønsted‐type plot and activation parameters) is consistent with an addition–elimination mechanism with the nucleophilic attack as the rate‐determining step. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silica aerogel–poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) composite for transparent heat retention films
Authors: Allan Jenna M. , Mumin Md Abdul , Wood Jeffery A. , Xu William Z. , Wu Wei , Charpentier Paul A.
Published: May 2014

Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) (EVA) plastic films are widely used for solar coverings including photovoltaic modules and commercial greenhouse films, but are poor at controlling heat flow. In this work, silica aerogel (SA) nanogels were examined for preparing transparent heat retention EVA films that block far infrared spectra radiation to maintain heat, without compromising the optical performance of the films. SA nanogels were melt‐mixed using a mini twin‐screw extruder with EVA pellets to form SA/EVA composite, which were pressed into thin films with controlled thickness. The composite films were characterized in terms of optical properties using a variety of analytical methods including FTIR, UV–Vis spectroscopy, electron, confocal, and atomic force microscopy. Both thermicity and thermal conductivity of commercial and experimental SA/EVA films were measured. The results demonstrated that the SA/EVA films gave improved infrared retention compared to commercial thermal plastic films without compromising visible light transmission, showing the potential for this approach in next generation heat retention films. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 927–935
Magnetron Sputtered Al‐CuO Nanolaminates: Effect of Stoichiometry and Layers Thickness on Energy Release and Burning Rate
Authors: Bahrami Mehdi , Taton Guillaume , Conédéra Véronique , Salvagnac Ludovic , Tenailleau Christophe , Alphonse Pierre , Rossi Carole
Published: May 2014

This paper reports on the reaction characteristic of Al/CuO reactive nanolaminates for different stoichiometries and bilayer thicknesses. Al/CuO nanolaminates are deposited by a DC reactive magnetron sputtering method. Pure Al and Cu targets are used in argon‐oxygen gas mixture plasma and an oxygen partial pressure of 0.13 Pa. This process produces low stress multilayered materials, each layer being in the range of 25 nanometers to one micrometer. Their structural, morphological, and chemical properties were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The heat of reaction and onset temperature were measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Under stoichiometric conditions, the reactivity quickly increases with the decrease of Al/CuO bilayer thickness. The burning rate is 2 m s−1 for bilayer thickness of 1.5 μm and reaches 80 m s−1 for bilayer thickness of 150 nm. At constant heating rate, the Al/CuO heat of reaction depends on both stoichiometry and bilayer thickness. When the bilayer thickness exceeds 300 nm, the heat of reaction decreases; it seems that only the region near the interface reacts. The best nanolaminate configuration was obtained for Al/CuO bilayer thickness of 150 nm.
Factors Influencing Temperature Fields during Combustion Reactions
Authors: Kappagantula Keerti , Crane Charles , Pantoya Michelle
Published: May 2014

A unique, non‐invasive diagnostic technique for characterizing two‐dimensional thermal fields generated during the combustion of nanothermites was developed. Temperature resolved thermal images of the reactions were obtained using infrared imaging coupled with multiwavelength pyrometry. Thermal images of fuel rich aluminum/copper oxide (Al/CuO) and aluminum/polytetrafluoroethylene (Al/PTFE) mixtures embedded with different additives were analyzed and the principal factors affecting the spatial distribution of temperature during their combustion were identified. Results showed two distinct temperature zones during combustion: a hot zone surrounding the point of ignition, where the highest temperatures were recorded followed by a lower temperature region called the intermediate zone. Temperatures are plotted as a function of distance from the point of ignition such that inflection points distinguishing temperature gradients provide an indication of the range of the thermal influence. Gas generation and heat of combustion are principal factors affecting temperature fields: greater gas generation in addition to condensed phase products promotes higher temperatures in the far field. Results also indicate that faster reactions attain higher temperatures and more extensive temperature fields. This observation is attributed to greater momentum of the gas and condensed phase products projected from the hot zone that shift the inflection point farther. These results show that multiphase convection is a governing mechanism promoting thermal energy distributions.
Simple Method for Prediction of the Standard Gibbs Free Energy of Formation of Energetic Compounds
Authors: Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein , Pouretedal Hamid Reza , Ghaedsharafi Ali Reza , Taghizadeh Seyed Ehsan
Published: May 2014

A reliable simple method for prediction of the standard Gibbs energy of formation (ΔfGθ) of energetic compounds containing nitroaromatic, acyclic, and cyclic nitramine, nitrate ester, and nitroaliphatic compounds is introduced herein. The method is based on the contribution of elemental composition (ΔfGelemθ) and the correcting function for the presence of additive and non‐additive molecular fragments (ΔfGcorrθ). In presence of some molecular moieties, ΔfGcorrθ may increase or decrease the value of ΔfGelemθ, depending on the intermolecular interactions. The experimental root‐mean‐square error (RMSE) of the novel correlation (22.7 kJ mol−1) is quite good. For some energetic compounds, where the computed values of two complex models of the quantitative structure‐property relationship (QSPR) theory were available, the experimental RMSE developed by the new method is smaller than the values obtained by QSPR method.
Sketches of emergent geometry in the gauge/gravity duality
Authors: Berenstein D.
Published: May 2014

In this paper three notions of emergent geometry arising from the study of gauge/gravity duals are discussed. The unifying theme behind these notions of emergent geometry is that one can derive properties of the effective action of a probe or excitation around some configuration in gauge theory which can be argued to be localized at a particular position in the gravity dual, and match this description to various degrees of accuracy in the gravity dual. The three examples discussed are giant gravitons in AdS5× S5, open strings stretching between these giants and the probe dynamics of a D0 brane in the presence of a thermal matrix configuration of the BFSS matrix model.
Holographic RG flows for gravitational couplings
Authors: Rachwał L. , Percacci R.
Published: May 2014

We present the first attempt to find the holographic interpretation of running of the Newton's constant in 4‐dimensional quantum theory. We compute its scale‐dependence using functional renormalization group methods based on a Wilsonian momentum cutoff. We show the details of the corresponding holographic RG flow in 5‐dimensional spacetime with minimally coupled scalar field in the bulk. In this domain wall setup the scalar potential is found. Solutions of this theory describe RG flows of gravitational coupling with the IR threshold phenomena fully taken into account.
Influence of hot pressing temperature on thermoelectric properties of type‐I clathrates
Authors: Yan X. , Bauer E. , Rogl P. , Paschen S.
Published: May 2014

It is well known that the process variables for sample synthesis affect the electrical, magnetic, mechanical, etc. properties of the final product. In this study, we present the influence of the hot pressing temperature on the thermoelectric properties of a type‐I clathrate of nominal composition Ba8Cu4.5Ge35.5Si6. The samples are prepared in a high‐frequency furnace, annealed, and subject to a long‐time ball milling. Finally, the nanopowders from ball milling are hot pressed at different temperatures. All hot pressed samples are characterized by X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscope, scanning electron microscopy, and transport property measurements. The results show that lower hot pressing temperatures are desired to prevent the nanopowders from coarsening, but are unfavorable for the densification: Samples hot pressed at lower temperatures have smaller crystallite sizes, larger porosities, and lower relative densities and, consequently, have higher electrical resistivity, and lower thermal conductivity. No significant differences are seen in ZT as the positive effect of reduced thermal conductivity is compensated by the enhanced electrical resistivity. The highest ZT of 0.42 is reached at 873 K for a sample hot pressed at 780 °C.
Current‐induced control of the electron–nuclear spin system in semiconductors on a micrometer scale
Authors: Chen Yuansen , Kim Jungtaek , Puls Joachim , Henneberger Fritz , Bacher Gerd
Published: May 2014

The ability of using onchip microcoils to control the electron–nuclear spin system in semiconductors is demonstrated. Electrically generated magnetic fields of several tens of mT can be obtained on a micrometer length scale, which are switchable on a sub‐ns time scale due to the low complex coil impedance. This allows one to electrically (i) manipulate the nuclear spins by means of nuclear magnetic resonance in n‐GaAs and (ii) control the hyperfine flip‐flop rate in CdSe/ZnSe quantum dots.