bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High‐Energy Lithium‐Ion Capacitor by Integration of a 3D Interconnected Titanium Carbide Nanoparticle Chain Anode with a Pyridine‐Derived Porous Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Cathode
Authors: Wang Huanwen , Zhang Yu , Ang Huixiang , Zhang Yongqi , Tan Hui Teng , Zhang Yufei , Guo Yuanyuan , Franklin Joseph B. , Wu Xing Long , Srinivasan Madhavi , Fan Hong Jin , Yan Qingyu
Published: March 2016

Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs) are hybrid energy storage devices that have the potential to bridge the gap between conventional high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries and high‐power capacitors by combining their complementary features. The challenge for LICs has been to improve the energy storage at high charge−discharge rates by circumventing the discrepancy in kinetics between the intercalation anode and capacitive cathode. In this article, the rational design of new nanostructured LIC electrodes that both exhibit a dominating capacitive mechanism (both double layer and pseudocapacitive) with a diminished intercalation process, is reported. Specifically, the electrodes are a 3D interconnected TiC nanoparticle chain anode, synthesized by carbothermal conversion of graphene/TiO2 hybrid aerogels, and a pyridine‐derived hierarchical porous nitrogen‐doped carbon (PHPNC) cathode. Electrochemical properties of both electrodes are thoroughly characterized which demonstrate their outstanding high‐rate capabilities. The fully assembled PHPNC//TiC LIC device delivers an energy density of 101.5 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 67.5 kW kg−1 (achieved at 23.4 Wh kg−1), and a reasonably good cycle stability (≈82% retention after 5000 cycles) within the voltage range of 0.0−4.5 V.
Chemistry of Mesoporous Organosilica in Nanotechnology: Molecularly Organic–Inorganic Hybridization into Frameworks
Authors: Chen Yu , Shi Jianlin
Published: March 2016

Organic–inorganic hybrid materials aiming to combine the individual advantages of organic and inorganic components while overcoming their intrinsic drawbacks have shown great potential for future applications in broad fields. In particular, the integration of functional organic fragments into the framework of mesoporous silica to fabricate mesoporous organosilica materials has attracted great attention in the scientific community for decades. The development of such mesoporous organosilica materials has shifted from bulk materials to nanosized mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (designated as MONs, in comparison with traditional mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs)) and corresponding applications in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In this comprehensive review, the state‐of‐art progress of this important hybrid nanomaterial family is summarized, focusing on the structure/composition–performance relationship of MONs of well‐defined morphology, nanostructure, and nanoparticulate dimension. The synthetic strategies and the corresponding mechanisms for the design and construction of MONs with varied morphologies, compositions, nanostructures, and functionalities are overviewed initially. Then, the following part specifically concentrates on their broad spectrum of applications in nanotechnology, mainly in nanomedicine, nanocatalysis, and nanofabrication. Finally, some critical issues, presenting challenges and the future development of MONs regarding the rational synthesis and applications in nanotechnology are summarized and discussed. It is highly expected that such a unique molecularly organic–inorganic nanohybrid family will find practical applications in nanotechnology, and promote the advances of this discipline regarding hybrid chemistry and materials.
Cycloisomerisierung von 1,5‐Eninen über eine 5‐endo‐dig‐ Cyclisierungs‐Protodeborylierungs‐Sequenz mit einem frustrierten Lewis‐Paar als Katalysator
Authors: Tamke Sergej , Qu Zheng‐Wang , Sitte Nikolai A. , Flörke Ulrich , Grimme Stefan , Paradies Jan
Published: March 2016

Die erste durch ein frustriertes Lewis‐Paar katalysierte Cycloisomerisierung einer Reihe von 1,5‐Eninen wurde entwickelt. Die Reaktion verläuft über die π‐Aktivierung des Alkins mit anschließender 5‐endo‐dig‐Cyclisierung. Die Gegenwart von PPh3 als Lewis‐Base war von besonderer Bedeutung, um einerseits Nebenreaktionen zu unterdrücken (z. B. 1,1‐Carboborierung) und um andererseits die Protodeborylierung für die katalytische Reaktion zu erreichen. Der Mechanismus wurde durch quantenmechanische Rechnungen untersucht und ist im Einklang mit strukturchemischen und kinetischen Daten.
Electrode Architecture in Galvanic and Electrolytic Energy Cells
Authors: Jeong Beomgyun , Ocon Joey D. , Lee Jaeyoung
Published: March 2016

Electrodes in galvanic and electrolytic energy cells are complicated structures comprising redox‐active materials, ionic/electronic conductors, and porous pathways for mass transfer of reactants. In contrast to breakthroughs in component development, methods of optimizing whole‐system architectural design to draw maximum output have not been well explored. In this Minireview, we introduce generalized types of electrode architecture, discuss fabrication strategies, and characterize already built structures. Systematic efforts to discover optimal electrode configurations will resolve long‐standing discrepancies that arise between whole systems and the sums of their parts for a number of electrochemical reactions and technologies.
Double Deprotonation of Pyridinols Generates Potent Organic Electron‐Donor Initiators for Haloarene–Arene Coupling
Authors: Barham Joshua P. , Coulthard Graeme , Kane Ryan G. , Delgado Nathan , John Matthew P. , Murphy John A.
Published: March 2016

Transition metal‐free couplings of haloarenes with arenes, triggered by the use of alkali metal alkoxides in the presence of an organic additive, are receiving significant attention in the literature. Most of the known organic additives effect coupling of iodoarenes, but not bromoarenes, to arenes. Recently it was reported that 2‐pyridinecarbinol (11) extends the reaction to aryl bromides. This paper investigates the mechanism, and reports evidence for dianions derived from 11 as electron donors to initiate the reaction. It also proposes routes by which electron‐poor benzoyl derivatives can be transformed into electron donors to initiate these reactions.
Preparation of polylactide microcapsules at a high throughput with a packed‐bed premix emulsification system
Authors: Sawalha Hassan , Sahin Sami , Schroën Karin
Published: March 2016

Core–shell polymer microcapsules are well known for their biomedical applications as drug carriers when they are filled with drugs and gas‐filled microcapsules that can be used as ultrasound contrast agents. The properties of microcapsules are strongly dependent on their size (distribution); therefore, equipment that allows the preparation of small and well‐defined microcapsules is of great practical relevance. In this study, we made polylactide microcapsules with a packed‐bed premix emulsification system that previously gave good results for regular emulsions. Here, we tested it for applicability to a system in which droplets shrank and solidified to obtain capsules. The packed‐bed column was loaded with glass beads of different sizes (30–90 µm) at various bed heights (2–20 mm), and coarse emulsions consisting of the polymer, a solvent, and a nonsolvent were pushed repeatedly through this system at selected applied pressures (1–4 bar). The obtained transmembrane fluxes (100–1000 m3 m−2 h−1) were much higher than those recorded for other membrane emulsification techniques. The average size of the obtained microcapsules ranged between 2 and 8 µm, with an average span of about 1; interestingly, the capsules were 2–10 times smaller than the interstitial voids of the beds. The droplets were larger when we used thicker beds and larger glass beads, and these effect correlated with the pore Reynolds number (Rep). Two breakup mechanisms were identified: spontaneous droplet snap‐off dominated the system at low Reps, and localized shear forces dominated the system at higher Rep. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43536.
The application of bibliometrics to research evaluation in the humanities and social sciences: An exploratory study using normalized Google Scholar data for the publications of a research institute
Authors: Bornmann Lutz , Thor Andreas , Marx Werner , Schier Hermann
Published: March 2016

In the humanities and social sciences, bibliometric methods for the assessment of research performance are (so far) less common. This study uses a concrete example in an attempt to evaluate a research institute from the area of social sciences and humanities with the help of data from Google Scholar (GS). In order to use GS for a bibliometric study, we developed procedures for the normalization of citation impact, building on the procedures of classical bibliometrics. In order to test the convergent validity of the normalized citation impact scores, we calculated normalized scores for a subset of the publications based on data from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus. Even if scores calculated with the help of GS and the WoS/Scopus are not identical for the different publication types (considered here), they are so similar that they result in the same assessment of the institute investigated in this study: For example, the institute's papers whose journals are covered in the WoS are cited at about an average rate (compared with the other papers in the journals).
New Caledonia: A Hot Spot for Valuable Chemodiversity Part 3: Santalales, Caryophyllales, and Asterids
Authors: Coulerie Paul , Poullain Cyril
Published: March 2016

The flora of New Caledonia encompasses more than 3000 plant species and an endemism of almost 80%. New Caledonia is even considered as one of the 34 ‘hot spots’ for biodiversity. Considering the current global loss of biodiversity and the fact that several drugs and pesticides become obsolete, there is an urgent need to increase sampling and research on new natural products. In this context, here, we reviewed the chemical knowledge available on New Caledonian native flora from economical perspectives. We expect that a better knowledge of the economic potential of plant chemistry will encourage the plantation of native plants for the development of a sustainable economy which will participate in the conservation of biodiversity. This review is divided into three parts, and the third part which is presented here summarizes the scientific literature related to the chemistry of endemic santalales, caryophyllales, and asterids. We show that the high rate of endemism is correlated with the originality of phytochemicals encountered in New Caledonian plants. A total of 176 original natural compounds have been identified from these plants, whereas many species have not been investigated so far. We also discuss the economic potential of plants and molecules with consideration of their medicinal and industrial perspectives. This review finally highlights several groups, such as Sapotaceae, that are unexplored in New Caledonia despite the high chemical interest in them. These plants are considered to have priority in future chemical investigations.
Association of downregulated HDAC 2 with the impaired mitochondrial function and cytokine secretion in the monocytes/macrophages from gestational diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Qu Xin , Yu Hongna , Jia Bei , Yu Xiaoyan , Cui Qing , Liu Zhifen , Sun Chengming , Chu Yongli
Published: March 2016

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases in later life, yet with underlying mechanisms unclear. The present study was to explore the association of upregulated histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC 2) with the impaired mitochondrial function and the cytokine secretion in the monocytes/macrophages from GDM patients. In this study, we examined the mitochondrial function, proinflamatory cytokine secretion and the HDAC 2 level in the serum or in the monocytes/macrophages from GDM patients, investigated the influence by HDAC 2 inhibitor, AR‐42 (N‐hydroxy‐4‐[[(2S)‐3‐methyl‐2‐phenylbutanoyl]amino]benzamide), on the mitochondrial function and cytokine secretion in the isolated GDM monocytes/macrophages. Results demonstrated an increased mitochondria size, mitochondrial superoxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and an undermined mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) in the GDM monocytes/macrophages. And the serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and IL‐6 were also markedly higher in the GDM pregnancies, while the expression and activity of HDAC 2 was downregulated. Moreover, AR‐42‐mediated HDAC 2 inhibition in vitro contributed to the impaired mitochondrial function and the proinflamatory cytokine secretion. In conclusion, this study suggests an association of the impaired mitochondrial function and the promoted proinflamatory cytokine secretion with the reduced HDAC 2 activity in GDM. These findings may present HDAC 2 as a target for GDM treatment.
Phosphorylation of syntaxin‐3 at Thr 14 negatively regulates exocytosis in RBL‐2H3 mast cells
Authors: Tadokoro Satoshi , Shibata Tetsuhiro , Inoh Yoshikazu , Amano Toshiro , Nakanishi Mamoru , Hirashima Naohide , Utsunomiya‐Tate Naoko
Published: March 2016

Recent studies have revealed that soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins interact with each other, forming a SNARE complex that induces exocytosis in mast cells. Previously, we reported that syntaxin‐3, a SNARE protein, regulates mast cell exocytosis and is constantly phosphorylated. In this study, we tried to identify the amino acid residue that is phosphorylated in mast cells, and to elucidate the regulatory mechanism of exocytosis by phosphorylation in syntaxin‐3. We found that Thr 14 of syntaxin‐3 was a phosphorylation site in mast cells. In addition, the overexpression of a constitutively dephosphorylated syntaxin‐3 (T14A) mutant enhanced mast cell exocytosis. We also showed that the phosphomimetic mutation of syntaxin‐3 at Thr 14 (T14E) induced structural changes in syntaxin‐3, and this mutation inhibited binding of syntaxin‐3 to Munc18‐2. These results suggest that phosphorylated syntaxin‐3 at Thr 14 negatively regulates mast cell exocytosis by impairing the interaction between syntaxin‐3 and Munc18‐2.
Bromination of Aromatic Compounds using Bromine in a Microreactor
Authors: Deng Qiulin , Shen Ruwei , Ding Rong , Zhang Lixiong
Published: March 2016

2,4,5‐Trifluorobromobenzene is a valuable intermediate with important application in the synthesis of biologically active peptides and fluorescent reagents. A continuous‐flow system has been successfully developed for the synthesis of 2,4,5‐trifluorobromobenzene in a microreactor using FeBr3 as a catalyst, which is steadily generated in situ from the reaction of Br2 and Fe. The procedure is efficient and easy‐to‐handle, and 2,4,5‐trifluorobromobenzene can be obtained within minutes in high yields.
Extraction of a Homogeneous Rhodium Catalyst from Saturated Branched Fatty Derivatives
Authors: Haßelberg Jennifer , Behr Arno , Herden Nathalie , Drescher Daniel
Published: March 2016

Saturated branched fatty derivatives are of great interest for the lubricants and cosmetics industry due to their improved temperature and viscosity behavior compared to the corresponding linear homologues. One way to produce saturated branched derivatives is the homogeneous rhodium‐catalyzed conjugation and co‐oligomerization of linoleic compounds based on renewable resources, e.g., sunflower oil, with ethene. The catalyst extraction behavior of the homogeneous rhodium catalyst RhCl3·3H2O from saturated branched fatty derivatives for catalyst recycling was studied. Investigation of the extraction parameters was performed using the model substance isostearic acid. Additionally, extraction of rhodium from co‐oligomer mixtures with different grade of saturation was carried out successfully. Also, the influence of solvent residues from prior reaction steps was evaluated.
Mechanism of Oxidative Amidation of Nitroalkanes with Oxygen and Amine Nucleophiles by Using Electrophilic Iodine
Authors: Li Jing , Lear Martin J. , Kwon Eunsang , Hayashi Yujiro
Published: March 2016

Recently, we developed a direct method to oxidatively convert primary nitroalkanes into amides that entailed mixing an iodonium source with an amine, base, and oxygen. Herein, we systematically investigated the mechanism and likely intermediates of such methods. We conclude that an amine–iodonium complex first forms through N−halogen bonding. This complex reacts with aci‐nitronates to give both α‐iodo‐ and α,α‐diiodonitroalkanes, which can act as alternative sources of electrophilic iodine and also generate an extra equimolar amount of I+ under O2. In particular, evidence supports α,α‐diiodonitroalkane intermediates reacting with molecular oxygen to form a peroxy adduct; alternatively, these tetrahedral intermediates rearrange anaerobically to form a cleavable nitrite ester. In either case, activated esters are proposed to form that eventually reacts with nucleophilic amines in a traditional fashion.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Ethylene Glycol and Terephthalic Acid from Biomass for Producing PET
Authors: Pang Jifeng , Zheng Mingyuan , Sun Ruiyan , Wang Aiqin , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2016

Review: [252 refs.
Localizing Perturbations of the Racemic Equilibria Involving Dipicolinate‐Derived Lanthanide(III) Complexes
Authors: Nguyen Brian T. , Ingram Andrew J. , Muller Gilles
Published: March 2016

Helical D3 tris(4‐amino‐2,6‐pyridine‐dicarboxylate)terbium(III) and europium(III) complexes, which form a racemic equilibrium in aqueous solution, were prepared to study their secondary coordination sphere interactions with chiral amino acids. These interactions were probed using a combination of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The results indicate that, regardless of the interaction between the chiral molecule and the complex, without an accessible hydrogen‐bond donor on the associating molecule, perturbation of the racemic equilibrium cannot occur. A generalized conclusion is established that indicates that the mechanism of chiral recognition by tris(dipicolinate)lanthanide(III) complexes is similar across a variety of analogous ligands. Chirality 28:325–331, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Thorough QTc Study Confirms Early Pharmacokinetics/QTc Modeling: A Supratherapeutic Dose of Omarigliptin, a Once‐Weekly DPP‐4 Inhibitor, Does Not Prolong the QTc Interval
Authors: Tatosian Daniel A. , Cardillo Marricco Nadia , Glasgow Xiaoli Shirley , DeGroot Bruce , Dunnington Katherine , George Laura , Gendrano Isaias Noel , Johnson‐Levonas Amy O. , Swearingen Dennis , Kauh Eunkyung
Published: March 2016

Omarigliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor being developed as a once‐weekly treatment for type 2 diabetes. This double‐blind, double‐dummy, randomized, 3‐period balanced crossover study definitively evaluated the effects of a supratherapeutic omarigliptin dose on QTc interval. Population‐specific correction of QT interval (QTcP) was used for the primary analysis. Healthy subjects (n = 60) were enrolled and received treatments separated by a ≥4‐week washout: (1) single‐dose 25 mg omarigliptin (day 1), single‐dose 175 mg omarigliptin (day 2); (2) placebo (day 1) followed by single‐dose 400 mg moxifloxacin (day 2); (3) placebo (days 1 and 2). Day 2 QTcP intervals were analyzed. The primary hypothesis was supported if the 90%CIs for the least‐squares mean differences between omarigliptin 175 mg and placebo in QTcP interval change from baseline were all < 10 milliseconds at every postdose point on day 2. The upper bounds of the 90%CIs for the differences (omarigliptin‐placebo) in QTcP change from baseline for omarigliptin 175 mg were < 10 milliseconds at all postdose times on day 2. In conclusion, a supratherapeutic dose of omarigliptin does not prolong the QTcP interval to a clinically meaningful degree relative to placebo, confirming the results of the earlier concentration‐QTc analysis.
Mother–offspring recognition in the domestic cat: Kittens recognize their own mother's call
Authors: Szenczi Péter , Bánszegi Oxána , Urrutia Andrea , Faragó Tamás , Hudson Robyn
Published: March 2016

Acoustic communication can play an important part in mother‐young recognition in many mammals. This, however, has still only been investigated in a small range mainly of herd‐ or colony‐living species. Here we report on the behavioral response of kittens of the domestic cat, a typically solitary carnivore, to playbacks of “greeting chirps” and “meows” from their own versus alien mothers. We found significantly stronger responses to the chirps from kittens' own mother than to her meows or to the chirps or meows of alien mothers. Acoustic analysis revealed greater variation between vocalizations from different mothers than for vocalizations from the same mother. We conclude that chirps emitted by mother cats at the nest represent a specific form of vocal communication with their young, and that kittens learn and respond positively to these and distinguish them from chirps of other mothers and from other cat vocalizations while still in the nest. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58: 568–577, 2016.
Diabetes in HIV‐infected persons in Cameroon?
Authors: Grunfeld Carl , Dankner Rachel
Published: March 2016

In the past, the increased prevalence of diabetes in HIV infection has been attributed to antiretroviral drugs. In this study, Cameroonians with HIV infection were shown in a paper in this issue of the Journal to be more likely to have diabetes if they were not on therapy. Future research should examine if the diabetes is related to the host response to infection or to socioeconomic factors that might both contribute to not being on anti‐retroviral therapy and predispose to diabetes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gold Nanoparticle@Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Hybrid Scaffolds in Microfluidic Format – Highly Efficient and Green Catalytic Platforms
Authors: Scholder Pascal , Hafner Martina , Hassel Achim W. , Nischang Ivo
Published: March 2016

Invited for the cover of this issue are Pascal Scholder, Martina Hafner, Achim Walter Hassel, and Ivo Nischang from the Johannes Kepler University Linz, Austria, and the Jena Center for Soft Matter, Germany. The cover image shows the highly porous hybrid scaffold with attached gold nanoparticles functioning as an efficient “green” reactor.
Early life stress induces sex‐dependent increases in phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase in brains of mice with neuropathic pain
Authors: Nishinaka T. , Nakamoto K. , Tokuyama S.
Published: March 2016

Background

Both early life stress and neuropathic pain induce morphological and functional abnormalities of the nervous system that are associated with emotional regulation. In our previous study, early life stress enhanced nerve injury‐induced hyperalgesia in adult male and female mice. In the present study, using phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (p‐ERK) as a marker of neuronal activation, we examined the effect of early life stress on neuronal function following partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSL).

Methods

Early life stress was induced by maternal separation from 2 to 3 weeks of age and by social isolation after weaning (MSSI). Neuropathic pain was induced by PSL at 9 weeks of age, and p‐ERK expression after light touch stimulation to the ipsilateral paw was measured using immunohistochemistry 1 week after nerve injury.

Results

Although MSSI increased p‐ERK expression in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and amygdala of male mice, PSL did not affect p‐ERK expression in control and MSSI mice. In female mice, increased p‐ERK expression was observed in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Furthermore, p‐ERK expression in the PVN and amygdala was increased in MSSI‐PSL mice.

Conclusions

The present data suggest that early life stress sex‐dependently and site‐specifically increases neuronal activity in the brain. In addition, increased neuronal activity in multiplebrain regions of mice subjected to early life stress may enhance hyperalgesia after nerve injury.

What does this study add?

Maternal separation and social isolation (MSSI) increased p‐ERK in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and amygdala of male mice. MSSI increased p‐ERK in the medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens of female mice. Neuropathic pain increased p‐ERK in the PVN and amygdala of female MSSI mice.
Evaluation of sample extraction methods for proteomics analysis of green algae Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Gao Yan , Lim Teck Kwang , Lin Qingsong , Li Sam Fong Yau
Published: March 2016

Many protein extraction methods have been developed for plant proteome analysis but information is limited on the optimal protein extraction method from algae species. This study evaluated four protein extraction methods, i.e. direct lysis buffer method, TCA‐acetone method, phenol method, and phenol/TCA‐acetone method, using green algae Chlorella vulgaris for proteome analysis. The data presented showed that phenol/TCA‐acetone method was superior to the other three tested methods with regards to shotgun proteomics. Proteins identified using shotgun proteomics were validated using sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment‐ion spectra (SWATH) technique. Additionally, SWATH provides protein quantitation information from different methods and protein abundance using different protein extraction methods was evaluated. These results highlight the importance of green algae protein extraction method for subsequent MS analysis and identification.
Microscale combustion calorimeter—application and limitation
Authors: Zhuge Jinfeng , Chen Xin , KS Anil , Manica Drew P.
Published: March 2016

A flammability evaluation tool that requires only milligram size sample is very attractive for plastic material development and quality control. One such instrument that has gained importance in recent years is the microscale combustion calorimeter (MCC). In this study, a novel application using the MCC to quantify flame retardant mechanism efficiency is introduced. The results demonstrated that the qualitative understanding of the mechanism can be quantified. The factors that affect the quality of the MCC data were also discussed. It was found that factors such as flow rate perturbation, sample weight, oxygen level, loading/types of the additives, and method of the test have strong effects on the data quality. The results indicate that caution should be taken when operating the test and interpreting the MCC data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidermal carbonic anhydrase activity and exoskeletal metal content during the molting cycle of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus
Authors: Calhoun Stacy , Zou Enmin
Published: March 2016

During the crustacean molting cycle, the exoskeleton is first mineralized in postmolt and intermolt and then presumably demineralized in premolt in order for epidermal retraction to occur. The mineralization process calls for divalent metal ions, such as Ca2+ and Mg2+, and bicarbonate ions whereas protons are necessary for dissolution of carbonate salts. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) has been suggested to be involved in exoskeletal mineralization by providing bicarbonate ions through catalyzing the reaction of carbon dioxide hydration. However, results of earlier studies on the role of epidermal CA in metal incorporation in crustacean exoskeleton are not consistent. This study was aimed to provide further evidence to support the notion that epidermal CA is involved in exoskeletal mineralization using the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun 1896), as the model crustacean. Significant increases first in calcium and magnesium then in manganese post‐ecdysis indicate significant metal deposition during postmolt and intermolt. Significant positive correlation between calcium or magnesium content and epidermal CA activity in postmolt and intermolt constitutes evidence that CA is involved in the mineralization of the crustacean exoskeleton. Additionally, we proposed a hypothetical model to describe the role of epidermal CA in both mineralization and demineralization of the exoskeleton based on the results of epidermal CA activity and exoskeletal metal content during the molting cycle. Furthermore, we found that the pattern of epidermal CA activity during the molting cycle of C. sapidus is similar to that of ecdysteroids reported for the same species, suggesting that epidermal CA activity may be under control of the molting hormones. J. Exp. Zool. 9999A:XX–XX, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Activity of Novel 2‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐((aryl)‐diazenyl)phenyl)‐3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐thiazolidin‐4‐one
Authors: Chopde Himani N. , Pandhurnekar Chandrashekhar P. , Meshram Jyotsna S. , Pagadala Ramakanth
Published: March 2016

A series of novel thiazolidinones, that is, 2‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐((aryl)‐diazenyl)phenyl)‐3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐thiazolidin‐4‐one, have been synthesized by reaction of various Schiff bases 2‐(4‐hydroxyphenylimino)methyl)‐4‐(aryl)diazenyl)phenol with ethanolic thioglycolic acid. Schiff bases were obtained by the reactions of 4‐amino phenol with 2‐hydroxy‐5‐((aryl)diazenyl)benzaldehyde. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H NMR, mass spectra, and C, H, N elemental analysis. The thiazolidinone derivatives were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activity.
Sarcopenia as a predictor of pulmonary complications after esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer
Authors: Nishigori Tatsuto , Okabe Hiroshi , Tanaka Eiji , Tsunoda Shigeru , Hisamori Shigeo , Sakai Yoshiharu
Published: March 2016

Background and Objectives

Sarcopenia or loss of skeletal muscle mass has been identified as a poor prognostic factor for a wide variety of diseases and conditions. We investigated whether preoperative sarcopenia is associated with postoperative complications in patients undergoing esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients with thoracic esophageal cancer who underwent esophagectomy between September 2005 and July 2014 at Kyoto University Hospital. Skeletal muscle mass was assessed using preoperative computed tomographic scans by measuring the cross‐sectional muscle area at the third lumbar vertebral level.

Results

Among the 199 eligible patients, 149 (75%) were classified as having sarcopenia. There was no difference in the incidence of overall complications between the groups (risk ratio [RR]: 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.80–1.53, P = 0.54). However, pulmonary complications were significantly more frequent in the sarcopenia group than in the nonsarcopenia group (RR: 2.63, 95% CI: 1.20–5.77, P = 0.007). Multivariate analyses demonstrated that sarcopenia was associated with a high adjusted risk of one or more pulmonary complications (odds ratio: 2.96, 95% CI: 1.14–7.69, P = 0.026).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia independently predicts pulmonary complications after esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:678–684. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Triterpene alcohols and sterols from rice bran reduce postprandial hyperglycemia in rodents and humans
Authors: Okahara Fumiaki , Suzuki Junko , Hashizume Kohjiro , Osaki Noriko , Shimotoyodome Akira
Published: March 2016

Scope

Hyperglycemia is a major public health problem worldwide and there is increasing demand for prevention of postprandial hyperglycemia in diabetic, prediabetic, and healthy humans.

Methods and results

We investigated whether rice bran and triterpene alcohol and sterol preparation (TASP) lowered hyperglycemia in mice and humans. Brown rice and white rice supplemented with TASP lowered the postprandial hyperglycemia in humans. TASP and its components (cycloartenol [CA], 24‐methylene cycloartanol, β‐sitosterol, and campesterol) decreased postprandial hyperglycemia in C57BL/6J mice. Glucose transport into everted rat intestinal sacs and human HuTu80 cells transfected with sodium–glucose cotransporter‐1 (SGLT1) was significantly reduced by the addition of CA. Intracellular localization analysis suggested that SGLT1 translocation to the apical plasma membrane was inhibited when the cells were treated with CA.

Conclusions

We demonstrated for the first time that TASP from rice bran lowered postprandial hyperglycemia in mice and humans. The smaller increase in blood glucose following TASP consumption may be due to the CA‐induced decrease in glucose absorption from the intestine, which may be related to decreased membrane translocation of SGLT1.
Survival From Childhood Hematological Malignancies in Denmark: Is Survival Related to Family Characteristics?
Authors: Erdmann Friederike , Winther Jeanette Falck , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg , Lightfoot Tracy , Zeeb Hajo , Simony Sofie Bay , Deltour Isabelle , Ferro Gilles , Bautz Andrea , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Schüz Joachim
Published: March 2016

Background

Due to diverse findings as to the role of family factors for childhood cancer survival even within Europe, we explored a nationwide, register‐based cohort of Danish children with hematological malignancies.

Methods

All children born between 1973 and 2006 and diagnosed with a hematological malignancy before the age of 20 years (N = 1,819) were followed until 10 years from diagnosis. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models estimating hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to assess the impact of family characteristics on overall survival in children with hematological malignancies.

Results

Having siblings and increasing birth order were associated with reduced survival from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Associations with AML were strongest and statistically significant. HRs of 1.62 (CI 0.85; 3.09) and 5.76 (CI 2.01; 16.51) were observed for the fourth or later born children with ALL (N = 41) and AML (N = 9), respectively. Children with older parents showed a tendency toward inferior ALL survival, while for AML young maternal age was related to poorer survival. Based on small numbers, a trend toward poorer survival from non‐Hodgkin lymphoma was observed for children having siblings and for children of younger parents.

Conclusions

Further research is warranted to gain further knowledge on the impact of family factors on childhood cancer survival in other populations and to elaborate potential underlying mechanisms and pathways of those survival inequalities.
Electric field inhomogeneity in ohmic‐type CdTe detectors measured by time‐of‐flight technique
Authors: Suzuki Kazuhiko , Sawada Takayuki , Seto Satoru
Published: March 2016

The bias‐induced instability of the internal electric field in Ohmic‐type CdTe gamma‐ray detectors is investigated by using the time‐of‐flight technique. Based on the solution of one dimensional Poisson equation, transient current waveforms at different delays of laser excitation from the bias application and at different temperatures are analysed It is shown that under DC bias application, the internal electric field decreases with depth because of the positive space charge buildup in the detectors. Further, the origin of the space charge is attributed to the injection and successive trapping of holes from the anode side at the early stage of evolution and then later to the thermal release of electrons from a deep donor at 0.64 eV. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Dislocations in MCT heteroepitaxial structures on (013) substrates and possibilities of dislocation density reducing
Authors: Sidorov Yury , Loshkarev Ivan , Sabinina Irina , Trukhanov Evgeny , Varavin Vasily , Yakushev Maksim , Kolesnikov Aleksei
Published: March 2016

Dislocations in heterostructures CdTe/ZnTe/GaAs(013) and CdTe/ZnTe/Si(013) were investigated using selective etching and transmission electron microscopy. The calculations of critical film thickness hc were fulfilled for 12 various slip systems, the experimental results were obtained for 4 of them. Misfit dislocations are introduced in a ZnTe film at the stage of formation of the first monolayers. With their introduction, the crystal lattices of the substrate and the film unfold relative each other that is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction measurements. An increase in the dislocation density into the CdTe and HgCdTe films was observed using layer‐by‐layer etching. That is testifies to the annihilation of threading dislocations during the growth of CdTe and MCT films. The dislocation annihilation rate is higher in films grown on GaAs(013) than on Si(013). Perhaps this is due to the higher proportion of gliding dislocations in CdTe films on GaAs substrates (013). It was made annealing of MCT films under cyclic temperature change in such way that activity of MCT components was changed to enhance the non‐conservative motion of dislocations. As a result, the density of penetrating dislocations in the active areas in MCT films on silicon substrates was decreased to the value of 2.5×106 cm‐2. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Varied pathways for simulated tropical cyclone rapid intensification. Part I: Precipitation and environment
Authors: Harnos Daniel S. , Nesbitt Stephen W.
Published: March 2016

Two 1‐km Weather Research and Forecasting model simulations of the rapid intensification (RI) periods of hurricanes Ike
(2008) and Earl
(2010), under low and high wind shear respectively, are performed to evaluate mechanisms linked to the initiation and maintenance of RI. Despite similar simulated intensification time series, the exhibited hydrometeor characteristics differ between the two cases since Ike possesses less asymmetry and less vigorous convection than Earl.

An objective method to quantitatively estimate the radius of maximum wind (RMW) with respect to height is introduced for quantifying the primary circulation character of each storm, permitting analysis of where heating is most efficient for driving warm core growth and subsequent intensification. Following eye development in each, diabatic heating remains embedded within the RMW. Earl's RI onset coincides with an absolute maximum in diabatic heating occurring within the RMW, while Ike possesses relatively less diabatic heating inside the RMW throughout and lacks an absolute peak associated with RI. The majority of diabatic heating within the RMW of both cases occurs at subfreezing temperatures, indicative of the importance of clouds associated with ice processes in these RI simulations. Earl's diabatic heating peak is tied to a maximum in convective burst activity residing within the RMW. Earl's preference for more sparse but intense convection is associated with increased sea surface temperatures, surface heat fluxes, moisture convergence, and near‐surface equivalent potential temperature relative to the broader, weaker convective character in Ike.
Implicit equal‐weights particle filter
Authors: Zhu Mengbin , van Leeuwen Peter Jan , Amezcua Javier
Published: March 2016

Filter degeneracy is the main obstacle for the implementation of particle filters in nonlinear high‐dimensional models. A new scheme, the implicit equal‐weights particle filter (IEWPF), is introduced, in which samples are drawn implicitly from proposal densities with a different covariance for each particle, such that all particle weights are equal by construction.

We test and explore the properties of the new scheme using a 1000 dimensional simple linear model and the 1000 dimensional nonlinear Lorenz96 model and compare the performance of the scheme with that of a local ensemble transformed Kalman filter (LETKF). The new scheme is never degenerate and shows good and consistent performance in all experiments. The LETKF has lower root‐mean‐square errors at observed grid points, but its ensemble spread is too low at unobserved grid points, where the IEWPF performs better. Furthermore, the IEWPF has a consistent spread in all experiments.

This new filter opens up a new class of particle filters that, by construction, do not suffer from the curse of dimensionality.
Enhanced Upconversion Luminescence of Metal‐Capped NaGd0.3Yb0.7F4:Er Submicrometer Particles
Authors: Li Ai‐Hua , Lü Mengyun , Guo Ling , Sun Zhijun
Published: March 2016

Metallic nanostructures are often used to enhance photoluminescence of nanomaterials based on local field enhancement with plasmons at metal surfaces. Here upconversion luminescence (UCL) enhancement of submicrometer‐size NaGd0.3Yb0.7F4:Er particles in cap‐like metal cavities, formed by deposition of a silver film on the particles dispersed on glass substrates, is studied. UCL of the particles is shown to be influenced by not only the plasmon‐enhanced local field but also the cavity modes. By varying the cavity size and location of the particles in the cavities, fluctuant variations of the UCL enhancement and electronic depopulation rate are observed in experiments. Typically, a maximum of 12‐fold enhancement of the UCL intensity is obtained. Combining the results with numerical simulations, the phenomenon is ascribed to effects of metal quenching, plasmonic field enhancement, and the cavity modes for the excitation and emission photons. Finally it is verified that, for the cap‐like submicrometer metal cavities, allocating the particles at the open mouths of the cavities is more advantageous to obtaining stronger enhancements of the particles' UCL. And the demonstrated structure is also convenient to fabricate for applications, e.g., in solar cells.
MOF‐Derived Hollow Co9S8 Nanoparticles Embedded in Graphitic Carbon Nanocages with Superior Li‐Ion Storage
Authors: Liu Jun , Wu Chao , Xiao Dongdong , Kopold Peter , Gu Lin , van Aken Peter A. , Maier Joachim , Yu Yan
Published: March 2016

Novel electrode materials consisting of hollow cobalt sulfide nanoparticles embedded in graphitic carbon nanocages (HCSP⊂GCC) are facilely synthesized by a top‐down route applying room‐temperature synthesized Co‐based zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐67) as the template. Owing to the good mechanical flexibility and pronounced structure stability of carbon nanocages‐encapsulated Co9S8, the as‐obtained HCSP⊂GCC exhibit superior Li‐ion storage. Working in the voltage of 1.0−3.0 V, they display a very high energy density (707 Wh kg−1), superior rate capability (reversible capabilities of 536, 489, 438, 393, 345, and 278 mA h g−1 at 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, and 10C, respectively), and stable cycling performance (≈26% capacity loss after long 150 cycles at 1C with a capacity retention of 365 mA h g−1). When the work voltage is extended into 0.01–3.0 V, a higher stable capacity of 1600 mA h g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 is still achieved.
Computed tomographic colonography vs rectal water‐ contrast transvaginal sonography in diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis: a pilot study
Authors: Ferrero S. , Biscaldi E. , Vellone V. G. , Venturini P. L. , Leone Roberti Maggiore U.
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To compare the performance of computed tomographic colonography (CTC) and rectal water‐contrast transvaginal sonography (RWC‐TVS) in the diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis, and compare precision in estimating the length of the rectosigmoid nodules and the distance between the nodules and the anal verge.

Methods

This prospective study included 70 patients of reproductive age with clinical suspicion of rectosigmoid endometriosis. Patients underwent RWC‐TVS and CTC before laparoscopic excision of endometriotic nodules. The findings of RWC‐TVS and CTC were compared with surgical and histological results.

Results

Of the 70 patients included in the study, 40 (57.1%) had rectosigmoid endometriosis. CTC and RWC‐TVS had similar accuracy in the diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis (P = 0.508) and similar precision in estimating the length of the endometriotic nodules (P = 0.077). CTC was more precise than RWC‐TVS in estimating the distance between the rectosigmoid nodule and the anal verge (P < 0.001). The intensity of pain experienced during CTC was higher than that perceived during RWC‐TVS (P < 0.001); however, intestinal distension for CTC was well‐tolerated in all patients without significant adverse effects.

Conclusions

RWC‐TVS and CTC have similar accuracy in the diagnosis of rectosigmoid endometriosis and similar precision in estimating the size of the nodules; however, CTC is more precise than RWC‐TVS in estimating the distance between the nodules and the anal verge, yet patients tolerate RWC‐TVS better than CTC. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Hybrid damper with stroke amplification for damping of offshore wind turbines
Authors: Brodersen Mark L. , Høgsberg Jan
Published: March 2016

The magnitude of tower vibrations of offshore wind turbines is a key design driver for the feasibility of the monopile support structure. A novel control concept for the damping of these tower vibrations is proposed, where viscous‐type hybrid dampers are installed at the bottom of the wind turbine tower. The proposed hybrid damper consists of a passive viscous dashpot placed in series with a load cell and an active actuator. By integrated force feedback control of the actuator motion, the associated displacement amplitude over the viscous damper can be increased compared with the passive viscous case, hereby significantly increasing the feasibility of viscous dampers acting at the bottom of the wind turbine tower. To avoid drift in the actuator displacement, a filtered time integration of the measured force signal is introduced. Numerical examples demonstrate that the filtered time integration control leads to performance similar to that of passive viscous damping and substantial amplification of the damper deformation without actuator drift. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of Silver Ion High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography for Quantitative Analysis of Selected n‐3 and n‐6 PUFA in Oil Supplements
Authors: Czajkowska‐Mysłek Anna , Siekierko Urszula , Gajewska Magdalena
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to develop a simple method for simultaneous determination of selected cis/cis PUFA–LNA (18:2), ALA (18:3), GLA (18:3), EPA (20:5), and DHA (22:6) by silver ion high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to a diode array detector (Ag‐HPLC‐DAD). The separation was performed on three Luna SCX Silver Loaded columns connected in series maintained at 10 °C with isocratic elution by 1 % acetonitrile in n‐hexane. The applied chromatographic system allowed a baseline separation of standard mixture of n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acid methyl esters containing LNA, DHA, and EPA and partial separation of ALA and GLA positional isomers. The method was validated by means of linearity, precision, stability, and recovery. Limits of detection (LOD) for considered PUFA standard solutions ranged from 0.27 to 0.43 mg L−1. The developed method was used to evaluate of n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids contents in plant and fish softgel oil capsules, results were compared with reference GC‐FID based method.