bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure‐response estimate for lung cancer and asbestosis in a predominantly chrysotile‐exposed Chinese factory cohort
Authors: Courtice Midori N. , Wang Xiaorong , Lin Sihao , Yu Ignatius Tak Sun , Berman D. Wayne , Yano Eiji
Published: March 2016

Background

Cumulative fiber exposures, predominantly chrysotile, were estimated in a Chinese asbestos worker cohort and exposure–response relationships with lung cancer mortality and cumulative incidence of asbestosis were determined.

Methods

Individual time‐dependent cumulative exposures were estimated for 577 asbestos workers, followed prospectively for 37 years. Occupational history and smoking data were obtained from company records and personal interviews; vital status and causes of death were ascertained from death registries and hospital records. Hazard ratios were generated for disease outcomes, with adjustments for smoking and age.

Results

Median cumulative fiber exposure for the cohort was 132.6 fiber‐years/ml (IQR 89.3–548.4). Exposure–response relationships were demonstrated for both disease outcomes, with nearly sixfold and threefold increased risks seen at the highest exposure level for lung cancer deaths and asbestosis, respectively.

Conclusion

Evidence using quantitative exposure estimates was provided for increased risks of lung cancer mortality and development of asbestosis in a predominantly chrysotile‐exposed cohort. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:369–378, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An examination of the language construct in NIMH's research domain criteria: Time for reconceptualization!
Authors: Elvevåg Brita , Cohen Alex S. , Wolters Maria K. , Whalley Heather C. , Gountouna Viktoria‐Eleni , Kuznetsova Ksenia A. , Watson Andrew R. , Nicodemus Kristin K.
Published: March 2016

The National Institute of Mental Health's Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) Initiative “calls for the development of new ways of classifying psychopathology based on dimensions of observable behavior.” As a result of this ambitious initiative, language has been identified as an independent construct in the RDoC matrix. In this article, we frame language within an evolutionary and neuropsychological context and discuss some of the limitations to the current measurements of language. Findings from genomics and the neuroimaging of performance during language tasks are discussed in relation to serious mental illness and within the context of caveats regarding measuring language. Indeed, the data collection and analysis methods employed to assay language have been both aided and constrained by the available technologies, methodologies, and conceptual definitions. Consequently, different fields of language research show inconsistent definitions of language that have become increasingly broad over time. Individually, they have also shown significant improvements in conceptual resolution, as well as in experimental and analytic techniques. More recently, language research has embraced collaborations across disciplines, notably neuroscience, cognitive science, and computational linguistics and has ultimately re‐defined classical ideas of language. As we move forward, the new models of language with their remarkably multifaceted constructs force a re‐examination of the NIMH RDoC conceptualization of language and thus the neuroscience and genetics underlying this concept. © 2016 The Authors. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diastereodivergente inverse Prenylierung von Indol‐ und Tryptophan‐Derivaten: Totalsynthese von Amauromin, Novoamauromin und epi‐Amauromin
Authors: Müller Jonas M. , Stark Christian B. W.
Published: March 2016

Eine regio‐ und stereoselektive inverse Prenylierung von Indol‐ und Tryptophan‐Derivaten wird präsentiert. Alle vier möglichen Stereoisomere sind durch diese Iridium‐katalysierte Reaktion zugänglich. Die Stereoselektivität wird durch eine Kombination aus chiralem Phosphoramidit‐Liganden mit einem achiralen Boran‐Additiv gesteuert und kann abhängig von der Art des Borans vollständig umgekehrt werden. Es genügt somit nur ein Enantiomer des Liganden, um alle denkbaren Stereoisomere herzustellen. Das synthetische Potential der Methode wurde in einer kurzen Synthese von Amauromin und seinen zwei natürlichen Diastereomeren demonstriert.
In Situ Observation of Thiol Michael Addition to a Reversible Covalent Drug in a Crystalline Sponge
Authors: Duplan Vincent , Hoshino Manabu , Li Wei , Honda Tadashi , Fujita Makoto
Published: March 2016

A reversible Michael addition reaction between thiol nucleophiles and cyanoenones has been previously postulated to be the mechanism‐of‐action of a new family of reversible covalent drugs. However, the hypothetical Michael adducts in this mechanism have only been detected by spectroscopic methods in solution. Herein, the crystallographic observation of reversible Michael addition with a potent cyanoenone drug candidate by means of the crystalline‐sponge method is reported. After inclusion of the cyanoenone substrate, the sponge crystal was treated with a thiol solution. Subsequent crystallographic analysis confirmed the single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformation of the substrate into the impermanent Michael adduct.
Zurückgezogen: Glutarimidedioxime: A Complexing and Reducing Reagent for Plutonium Recovery from Spent Nuclear Fuel Reprocessing
Authors: Xian Liang , Tian Guoxin , Beavers Christine M. , Teat Simon J. , Shuh David K.
Published: March 2016

Efficient separation processes for recovering uranium and plutonium from spent nuclear fuel are essential to the development of advanced nuclear fuel cycles. The performance characteristics of a new salt‐free complexing and reducing reagent, glutarimidedioxime (H2A), are reported for recovering plutonium in a PUREX process. With a phase ratio of organic to aqueous of up to 10:1, plutonium can be effectively stripped from 30 % tributyl phosphate (TBP) in kerosene into 1 m HNO3 with H2A. The complexation‐reduction mechanism is illustrated with the combination of UV/Vis absorption spectra and the crystal structure of a PuIV complex with the reagent. The fast stripping rate and the high efficiency for stripping PuIV, through the complexation‐reduction mechanism, is suitable for use in centrifugal contactors with very short contact/resident times, thereby offering significant advantages over conventional processes.
Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Compounds: Photocatalysts for Redox Reactions and Solar Fuel Production
Authors: Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Asiri Abdullah M. , García Hermenegildo
Published: March 2016

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are crystalline porous materials formed from bi‐ or multipodal organic linkers and transition‐metal nodes. Some MOFs have high structural stability, combined with large flexibility in design and post‐synthetic modification. MOFs can be photoresponsive through light absorption by the organic linker or the metal oxide nodes. Photoexcitation of the light absorbing units in MOFs often generates a ligand‐to‐metal charge‐separation state that can result in photocatalytic activity. In this Review we discuss the advantages and uniqueness that MOFs offer in photocatalysis. We present the best practices to determine photocatalytic activity in MOFs and for the deposition of co‐catalysts. In particular we give examples showing the photocatalytic activity of MOFs in H2evolution, CO2reduction, photooxygenation, and photoreduction.
Synthesis of Amaryllidaceae Constituents and Unnatural Derivatives
Authors: Ghavre Mukund , Froese Jordan , Pour Milan , Hudlicky Tomas
Published: March 2016

This update covers the syntheses of Amaryllidaceae alkaloids since the publication of the last major review in 2008. A short summary of past syntheses and their step count is provided for the major constituents; pancratistatin, 7‐deoxypancratistatin, narciclasine, lycoricidine, lycorine, and for other natural constituents, as well as for unnatural derivatives. Discussion of biological activities is provided for unnatural derivatives. Future prospects and further developments in this area are covered at the end of the review. The literature is covered to the end of August 2015.
Glutarimidedioxime: A Complexing and Reducing Reagent for Plutonium Recovery from Spent Nuclear Fuel Reprocessing
Authors: Xian Liang , Tian Guoxin , Beavers Christine M. , Teat Simon J. , Shuh David K.
Published: March 2016

Efficient separation processes for recovering uranium and plutonium from spent nuclear fuel are essential to the development of advanced nuclear fuel cycles. The performance characteristics of a new salt‐free complexing and reducing reagent, glutarimidedioxime (H2A), are reported for recovering plutonium in a PUREX process. With a phase ratio of organic to aqueous of up to 10:1, plutonium can be effectively stripped from 30 % tributyl phosphate (TBP) in kerosene into 1 m HNO3 with H2A. The complexation‐reduction mechanism is illustrated with the combination of UV/Vis absorption spectra and the crystal structure of a PuIV complex with the reagent. The fast stripping rate and the high efficiency for stripping PuIV, through the complexation‐reduction mechanism, is suitable for use in centrifugal contactors with very short contact/resident times, thereby offering significant advantages over conventional processes.
Pomegranate‐Inspired Design of Highly Active and Durable Bifunctional Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Metal–Air Batteries
Authors: Li Ge , Wang Xiaolei , Fu Jing , Li Jingde , Park Moon Gyu , Zhang Yining , Lui Gregory , Chen Zhongwei
Published: March 2016

Rational design of highly active and durable electrocatalysts for oxygen reactions is critical for rechargeable metal–air batteries. Herein, we report the design and development of composite electrocatalysts based on transition metal oxide nanocrystals embedded in a nitrogen‐doped, partially graphitized carbon framework. Benefiting from the unique pomegranate‐like architecture, the composite catalysts possess abundant active sites, strong synergetic coupling, enhanced electron transfer, and high efficiencies in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The Co3O4‐based composite electrocatalyst exhibited a high half‐wave potential of 0.842 V for ORR, and a low overpotential of only 450 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 for OER. A single‐cell zinc–air battery was also fabricated with superior durability, holding great promise in the practical implementation of rechargeable metal–air batteries.
Accelerated Discovery in Photocatalysis using a Mechanism‐Based Screening Method
Authors: Hopkinson Matthew N. , Gómez‐Suárez Adrián , Teders Michael , Sahoo Basudev , Glorius Frank
Published: March 2016

Herein, we report a conceptually novel mechanism‐based screening approach to accelerate discovery in photocatalysis. In contrast to most screening methods, which consider reactions as discrete entities, this approach instead focuses on a single constituent mechanistic step of a catalytic reaction. Using luminescence spectroscopy to investigate the key quenching step in photocatalytic reactions, an initial screen of 100 compounds led to the discovery of two promising substrate classes. Moreover, a second, more focused screen provided mechanistic insights useful in developing proof‐of‐concept reactions. Overall, this fast and straightforward approach both facilitated the discovery and aided the development of new light‐promoted reactions and suggests that mechanism‐based screening strategies could become useful tools in the hunt for new reactivity.
Modular “Click” Preparation of Bifunctional Polymeric Heterometallic Catalysts
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Zhao Liyuan , Lv Hui , Zhang Guodong , Xia Chungu , Hahn F. Ekkehardt , Li Fuwei
Published: March 2016

Heterobimetallic molecular complexes or strictly alternating metallated polymers are obtained by a click reaction between mononuclear metal complexes (secondary building units, SBUs) bearing NHCs functionalized with either p‐azidophenyl or p‐ethynylphenyl wingtips. With a copper‐NHC complex as SBU the formation of molecular or polymeric compounds did not require any additives as the copper complex catalyzes the click reaction. Transmetallation from heterobimetallic Cu/Ag derivatives to Cu/Pd derivatives was achieved. The linker between the SBUs (flexible or rigid) influences the catalytic activity of the heterobimetallic compounds. The polymer with alternating copper‐NHC and silver‐NHC units and a flexible methylene‐triazole bridge between them shows the highest activity in the catalytic alkynylation of trifluoromethyl ketones to give fluorinated propargylic alcohols.
A magnetic nanoparticle‐catalyzed regioselectivering opening of epoxides by aromatic amines
Authors: Azizi Najmedin , Kamrani Parisa , Saadat Mostafa
Published: March 2016

Sulfonic acid‐functionalized silica‐coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized and applied as a green catalyst for an efficient and environmentally friendly ring opening of epoxides with aromatic amines in good to excellent yields with high chemoselectivity. Clean aminolysis of various aliphatic and aromatic epoxides in ethanol generates β‐hydroxyamines under mild reaction conditions. The synthesized acidic magnetic nanoparticles were recovered using a simple external magnet and successfully reused for five runs without any appreciable loss of catalytic activity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A practical synthesis of 2‐aminobenzothiazoles via copper(I)‐catalyzed tandem reaction of 2‐iodoanilines with isothiocyanates in ionic liquids
Authors: Chen Ling , Huang Bin , Nie Quan , Cai Mingzhong
Published: March 2016

A copper(I)‐catalyzed tandem reaction of 2‐iodoanilines with isothiocyanates was achieved in hydrophobic [bmim][PF6] ionic liquid under mild conditions, generating a variety of 2‐aminobenzothiazoles in good to excellent yields. The tandem reaction that was carried out in [bmim][PF6] has some obvious advantages such as accelerated reaction rate and increased yield as compared with the reaction run in volatile solvents such as toluene. Furthermore, the CuI/1,10‐phenanthroline catalytic system can be reused up to eight times without loss of activity and efficiency. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of Mannich base monophenolate lanthanide complexes and their application in ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone
Authors: Peng Ling , Zhao Jing , Wang Li‐Jun , Tao Xian , Wang Yu‐Long , Shen Ying‐Zhong
Published: March 2016

A series of Mannich base monophenol ligands [2,4‐tBu2‐6‐CH2NMe2‐PhOH (HA), 2,4‐tBu2‐6‐CH2NEt2‐PhOH (HB), 2,4‐tBu2‐6‐CH2Py‐PhOH (HC), 2‐tBu‐4‐Me‐6‐CH2Py‐PhOH (HD), 4‐tBu‐2,6‐(CH2Py)2‐PhOH (HE)] were synthesized by Mannich reaction using phenol and formaldehyde reacting with secondary amine. A series of homoleptic lanthanide complexes [LaA3 (1), GdA3 (2), LaB3 (3), GdB3 (4), LaC3 (5), GdC3 (6), LaD3 (7), GdD3 (8), LaE3 (9), GdE3 (10)] were prepared by amine elimination reactions of the ligands with Ln[N(SiMe3)2]3 (Ln = La, Gd). Complexes 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 were all characterized using NMR spectra, and the structures of complexes 3 and 5 were determined using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Complexes 3 and 5 are isostructural, and the lanthanum center exhibits a distorted octahedral geometry, in which the O(1), O(2) and O(3) atoms occupy three positions and N(1), N(2) and N(3) atoms occupy the other three positions. All complexes were characterized using elemental analysis and infrared spectra. The catalytic properties of complexes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 for the ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone were studied, and the results show that all complexes are efficient initiators for this ring‐opening polymerization reaction. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A structural investigation of heteroleptic pentavalent antimonials and their leishmanicidal activity
Authors: Mushtaq Rabia , Rauf Muhammad Khawar , Bond Marcus , Badshah Amin , Ali Muhammad Irshad , Nadhman Akhtar , Yasinzai Masoom , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz
Published: March 2016

In the quest for new drug candidates for the safe treatment of parasitic diseases like leishmaniasis, a series of heteroleptic pentavalent antimonials of the type [SbR3(OOCR′)2] were synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and multinuclear (1H and 13C) NMR spectroscopy. The carboxylate moieties are predominantly substituted benzoates with some complexes that fit in acetato or nicotinato ligands. The crystal structures of [Sb(p‐Tol)3(p‐CH3C6H4COO)2], [Sb(p‐Tol)3(3,5‐Cl2C6H3COO)2] and [Sb(p‐Tol)3(3‐nicotinato)2] were determined crystallographically and shown to adopt geometries intermediate between trigonal bipyramidal and square pyramidal, and essentially monomeric with a five‐coordinated Sb center. The leishmanicidal activity was assessed against the Leishmania tropica KWH23 parasite, and the cytotoxicity level was also measured on human macrophage blood cells. It was observed that IC50 of the antimonials was 100‐fold superior as compared with the standard antimonial drug used. Cytotoxicity results showed that these antimonials are highly active even at low concentrations and are biocompatible with human macrophages, making them highly promising drug candidates for further investigation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UVA and UVC modification of photo polymeric surface and application for flexographic deposition of thin coatings
Authors: Tomašegović Tamara , Poljaček Sanja Mahović , Leskovac Mirela
Published: March 2016

The object of this research was to perform, characterize, and apply the functional modification of flexographic photo polymeric printing plate surface by UVA and UVC post‐treatments. Photo polymeric printing plates have an important application in functional printing, where new printing inks/coatings and substrate formulations are used and the specific qualitative requirements must be met. The limitations of materials and processes often require expensive reformulations of the functional inks to achieve printability. Results of this research showed that the modification of the photo polymeric printing plate surface at the end of its production process can be used to precisely adjust the printing ink transfer to the printing substrate and thus eliminate the need for changing the ink/coating composition. By applying specific UV post‐treatment, one can create a flexographic coating deposition system of tailored properties adjustable to variable reproduction systems with high quality requirements. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43526.
The effect of UV irradiation on the electrospun PCL/TiO2 composites fibers
Authors: Bajsić Emi Govorčin , Mijović Budimir , Penava Nina Vranješ , Grgurić Tamara Holjevac , Slouf Miroslav , Zdraveva Emilija
Published: March 2016

The effect of UV irradiation and micro‐ and nano‐TiO2 as well as titanate nanotubes (TiNT) on the phase morphology and thermal properties of the electrospun PCL composite fibers was investigated. Polycaprolactone (PCL)/TiO2 (micro‐ and nano‐TiO2 as well as titanate nanotubes) composite fibers were prepared by electrospinning a polymer solution. The PCL and PCL/TiO2 composite fibers were exposed to UV light at irradiation times of 5 and 10 days. After UV irradiation the crystallinity of the electrospun PCL/TiNTcomposite fibers increased because of the large specific surface area of TiNT. The thermal stability of the PCL/TiNT electrospun composite fibers increased due to the formation of crosslinking structure after UV irradiation. The SEM analysis suggests that after UV radiation the fibers showed high degree of degradation due to the high number of fibers breakages and fibers surface voids. The results of FTIR spectroscopy confirmed that the TiO2 particles enhance the degradation process because of their photocatalytic activity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43539.
Maternal residential exposure to agricultural pesticides and birth defects in a 2003 to 2005 North Carolina birth cohort
Authors: Rappazzo Kristen M. , Warren Joshua L. , Meyer Robert E. , Herring Amy H. , Sanders Alison P. , Brownstein Naomi C. , Luben Thomas J.
Published: March 2016

Background

Birth defects are responsible for a large proportion of disability and infant mortality. Exposure to a variety of pesticides have been linked to increased risk of birth defects.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study to estimate the associations between a residence‐based metric of agricultural pesticide exposure and birth defects. We linked singleton live birth records for 2003 to 2005 from the North Carolina (NC) State Center for Health Statistics to data from the NC Birth Defects Monitoring Program. Included women had residence at delivery inside NC and infants with gestational ages from 20 to 44 weeks (n = 304,906). Pesticide exposure was assigned using a previously constructed metric, estimating total chemical exposure (pounds of active ingredient) based on crops within 500 meters of maternal residence, specific dates of pregnancy, and chemical application dates based on the planting/harvesting dates of each crop. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals for four categories of exposure (<10th, 10–50th, 50–90th, and >90th percentiles) compared with unexposed. Models were adjusted for maternal race, age at delivery, education, marital status, and smoking status.

Results

We observed elevated ORs for congenital heart defects and certain structural defects affecting the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and musculoskeletal systems (e.g., OR [95% confidence interval] [highest exposure vs. unexposed] for tracheal esophageal fistula/esophageal atresia = 1.98 [0.69, 5.66], and OR for atrial septal defects: 1.70 [1.34, 2.14]).

Conclusion

Our results provide some evidence of associations between residential exposure to agricultural pesticides and several birth defects phenotypes. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:240–249, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic procedure for the classification of proven and potential teratogens for use in research
Authors: Eltonsy Sherif , Martin Brigitte , Ferreira Ema , Blais Lucie
Published: March 2016

Background

Although there is strong evidence that some medications are teratogenic, the current lists of teratogens to be used in research are outdated. The objective of this study was to develop an updatable and systematic procedure to the classification of medications proven and potentially teratogenic in the first trimester of pregnancy, for use in research.

Methods

We developed a two‐step procedure for teratogen classification. Step 1 includes classifying the medications from Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation: a Reference Guide to Fetal and Neonatal Risk (9th ed.) into two provisional lists: (1) teratogenic medications, and (2) potentially teratogenic medications. We also searched other references to add other medications. In Step 2, the Teratology Information System (TERIS) database was searched, and the medication was classified as teratogenic or potentially teratogenic according to a newly developed scheme. Expert consensus was used if a medication was not recorded in TERIS.

Results

A total of 114 medications were identified in Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation: a Reference Guide to Fetal and Neonatal Risk, with 57 medications in each provisional list. Seventy‐eight medications were identified in other sources. A total of 135 medications were included in Step 2; the TERIS scheme classified 23 medications, and 112 medications required expert opinion. The two experts agreed on 78.6% of the medications (kappa = 0.63). We identified 91 teratogenic and 81 potentially teratogenic medications.

Conclusion

Using reliable references, we established a systematic procedure to the classification of medications with evidence of or potential teratogenic risk. These exhaustive lists will be useful in teratology research and related fields. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:285–297, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Compound heterozygosity of a paternal submicroscopic deletion and a maternal missense mutation in POR gene: Antley‐bixler syndrome phenotype in three sibling fetuses
Authors: Tzetis Maria , Konstantinidou Anastasia , Sofocleous Christalena , Kosma Konstantina , Mitrakos Anastasios , Tzannatos Christina , Kitsiou‐Tzeli Sofia
Published: March 2016

Background

Antley‐Bixler syndrome (ABS) is an exceptionally rare craniosynostosis syndrome that can be accompanied by disordered steroidogenesis, and is mainly caused by mutations in the POR gene, inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Here we report the prenatal and postmortem findings of three sibling fetuses with ABS as a result of compound heterozygosity of a paternal submicroscopic deletion and a maternal missense mutation in the POR gene.

Methods

Prenatal ultrasound and postmortem examination were performed in three sibling fetuses with termination of pregnancy at 22, 23, and 17 weeks of gestation, respectively. Molecular analysis of fetus 2 and 3 included (a) bidirectional sequencing of exon 8 of the POR gene after amplification of the specific locus by polymerase chain reaction, to detect single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and (b) high resolution comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) positive single nucleotide polymorphism array CGH (aCGH) analysis to detect copy number variants (CNVs), copy neutral areas of loss of heterozygosity and uniparental disomy.

Results

The diagnosis of ABS was suggested by the postmortem examination findings. The combination of the POR gene molecular analysis and aCGH revealed a compound heterozygous genotype of a maternal SNV (p.A287P) and a paternal CNV (NC_000007.13:g.(?_75608488)_(75615534_?)del).

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, these sibling fetuses add to the few reported cases of ABS, caused by a combination of a SNV and a CNV in the POR gene. The detailed description of the pathologic and radiographic findings of second trimester fetuses affected with ABS adds novel knowledge concerning the early ABS phenotype, in lack of previous relevant reports. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:536–541, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular mechanisms of membrane interaction at implantation
Authors: Davidson Lien M. , Coward Kevin
Published: March 2016

Successful pregnancy is dependent upon the implantation of a competent embryo into a receptive endometrium. Despite major advancement in our understanding of reproductive medicine over the last few decades, implantation failure still occurs in both normal pregnancies and those created artificially by assisted reproductive technology (ART). Consequently, there is significant interest in elucidating the etiology of implantation failure. The complex multistep process of implantation begins when the developing embryo first makes contact with the plasma membrane of epithelial cells within the uterine environment. However, although this biological interaction marks the beginning of a fundamental developmental process, our knowledge of the intricate physiological and molecular processes involved remains sparse. In this synopsis, we aim to provide an overview of our current understanding of the morphological changes which occur to the plasma membrane of the uterine endothelium, and the molecular mechanisms that control communication between the early embryo and the endometrium during implantation. A multitude of molecular factors have been implicated in this complex process, including endometrial integrins, extracellular matrix molecules, adhesion molecules, growth factors, and ion channels. We also explore the development of in vitro models for embryo implantation to help researchers investigate mechanisms which may underlie implantation failure. Understanding the precise molecular pathways associated with implantation failure could help us to generate new prognostic/diagnostic biomarkers, and may identify novel therapeutic targets. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 108:19–32, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Social pedagogy and bullying in schools: the views of university students in England, Greece and Norway
Authors: Kyriacou Chris , Mylonakou‐Keke Iro , Stephens Paul
Published: March 2016

This study explores the extent to which a social pedagogic perspective is evident in the views of bullying in schools held by a sample of university students in England, Greece and Norway studying in the area of the education, care and welfare of children. A total of 469 university students completed a questionnaire in which they were asked to rate their strength of agreement with 30 statements concerning bullying in schools. Twelve of these statements specifically explored adopting a social pedagogic perspective. There was a general consensus among the respondents in all three countries that bullying is a major problem in schools and that schools are not tackling bullying adequately. The replies also indicate that many respondents reported views that align with a social pedagogic perspective. Differences between students within each country and between countries are in part a reflection of polarised views about how best to tackle bullying.
Effect of Ga3+ and Gd3+ ions substitution on the structural and optical properties of Ce3+‐doped yttrium aluminium garnet phosphor nanopowders
Authors: Wako A. H. , Dejene F. B. , Swart H. C.
Published: March 2016

The structural and optical properties of commercially obtained Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ phosphor were investigated by replacing Al3+ with Ga3+ and Y3+ with Gd3+ in the Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ structure to form Y3(Al,Ga)5O12:Ce3+ and (Y,Gd)3Al5O12:Ce3+. X‐Ray diffraction (XRD) results showed slight 2‐theta peak shifts to lower angles when Ga3+ was used and to higher angles when Gd3+ was used, with respect to peaks from Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ and JCPDS card no. 73–1370. This could be attributed to induced crystal‐field effects due to the different ionic sizes of Ga3+ and Gd3+ compared with Al3+ and Y3+. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra showed broad excitation from 350 to 550 nm with a maximum at 472 nm, and broad emission bands from 500 to 650 nm, centred at 578 nm for Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ arising from the 5d → 4f transition of Ce3+. PL revealed a blue shift for Ga3+ substitution and a red shift for Gd3+ substitution. UV–Vis showed two absorption peaks at 357 and 457 nm for Y3Al5O12:Ce3+, with peaks shifting to 432 nm for Ga3+ and 460 nm for Gd3+ substitutions. Changes in the trap levels or in the depth and number of traps due to Ce3+ were analysed using thermoluminescence (TL) spectroscopy. This revealed the existence of shallow and deep traps. It was observed that Ga3+ substitution contributes to the shallowest traps at 74 °C and fewer deep traps at 163 °C, followed by Gd3+ with shallow traps at 87 °C and deep traps at 146 °C. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensitive Electrochemiluminescence Immunosensor for Determination of Tumor Biomarker PSA Based on Multifunctionalized Pt/Ag@BSA Core–Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Xu Xianghong
Published: March 2016

A multifunctionalized bovine serum albumin encapsulated platinum and silver alloys core–shell nanoparticles (Pt/Ag@BSA NPs)‐based electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunosensor for ultrasensitive determination of tumor marker prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) has been designed. In this work, Pt/Ag@BSA core–shell nanoparticles with large surface area, favorable electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility were employed as ideal multifunctional carriers to effectively immobilize numerous luminol molecules and PSA capture antibodies (Anti‐PSA) acted as signal probe and molecule recognition probe, respectively. In addition, AuNPs were electrodeposited onto the indium tin oxide (ITO) to construct an outstanding base for this immunosensor, which could promote the electron transfer and load a large amount of multifunctionalized Pt/Ag@BSA nanoparticles. The constructed immunosensor could specifically capture PSA, which hindered the electron transfer of the ECL reaction between luminol and H2O2
because of the barrier of the attached immunoprotein layer and thereby resulted in the decrease of ECL intensity. Under the optimal conditions, ECL intensity of the immunosensor decreased linearly with the logarithm of PSA concentration ranging from 0.001 to 200 ng/mL with a low detection limit of 0.0003 ng/mL (S/N = 3). The proposed immunosensor exhibited high performances in sensitivity, reproducibility, stability, and specificity. Furthermore, the developed immunoassay has been applied to the detection of PSA in real serum samples with satisfactory results.
Conditional Release Placements of Insanity Acquittees in Oregon: 2012–2014
Authors: Novosad David , Banfe Shelley , Britton Juliet , Bloom Joseph D.
Published: March 2016

Between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2014, there was a large population (N = 200) of insanity acquittees placed on conditional release (CR) in the state of Oregon. This article looks at the demographic and system characteristics of this large group of individuals. The authors then focus on the initial housing placement and what happens to individuals after their release in relation to their housing placement. In Oregon, insanity acquittees are either conditionally released directly by the court or placed in the hospital prior to potential CR by a supervising board. In general, once CR occurs, individuals tend to stay in their initial placement without moving to less structured levels of care, raising concerns about transinstitutionalization. This is especially true for individuals released to the most structured living arrangement (secure residential treatment facility). Those individuals who are conditionally released to less structured settings have a higher rate of revocation back to the hospital. Those individuals who do move to less structured levels of care usually have longer hospital stays and start off in more structured levels of care to start their CR. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Go beyond liability waivers to proactively manage sports camp risks
Authors: Wilson Mark
Published: March 2016

Collegiate sports camps continue to grow and provide a unique revenue stream and recruiting platform that are vital to collegiate teams' success. But with these opportunities also come risks.
Improve safety, decrease liability by investing the time in reassessing security at your school's sports arenas, stadiums
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: March 2016

Mass shootings in movie theaters and malls and terrorist attacks in crowded venues have unfortunately become part of our reality, both here and overseas. The tragedy in Paris even included an attack on a crowded soccer stadium — although it was thwarted, fortunately.
Advances in Chemistry and Bioactivity of the Genus Chisocheton Blume
Authors: Shilpi Jamil A. , Saha Sanjib , Chong Soon‐Lim , Nahar Lutfun , Sarker Satyajit D. , Awang Khalijah
Published: March 2016

Chisocheton is one of the genera of the family Meliaceae and consists of ca. 53 species; the distribution of most of those are confined to the Indo‐Malay region. Species of broader geographic distribution have undergone extensive phytochemical investigations. Previous phytochemical investigations of this genus resulted in the isolation of mainly limonoids, apotirucallane, tirucallane, and dammarane triterpenes. Reported bioactivities of the isolated compounds include cytotoxic, anti‐inflammatory, antifungal, antimalarial, antimycobacterial, antifeedant, and lipid droplet inhibitory activities. Aside from chemistry and biological activities, this review also deals briefly with botany, distribution, and uses of various species of this genus.
PlGF knockdown inhibited tumor survival and migration in gastric cancer cell via PI3K/Akt and p38MAPK pathways
Authors: Akrami Hassan , Mahmoodi Fatemeh , Havasi Somaye , Sharifi Amene
Published: March 2016

The molecular signalling of placental growth factor (PlGF), a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor family, was not uncovered in human adenocarcinoma gastric cell line (AGS). The purpose of this study was to examine the inhibitory effects of PlGF knockdown on cell proliferation, apoptosis and migration through p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) and PI3K pathways in human adenocarcinoma gastric cell line (AGS). To study PlGF knockdown effect, AGS cells were treated with 40 pmol of small interfering RNA (siRNA) related to PlGF gene and also a scrambled siRNA as control. Trypan Blue and Anexin V staining of AGS cells treated with PlGF‐specific siRNA showed induction of apoptosis. Wound healing assay and zymography indicated that cellular migration and matrix metalloproteinases activities were reduced in response to PlGF knockdown. Phosphorylation of Akt and p38MAPK was reduced in AGS cells treated with PlGF‐specific siRNA. PlGF knockdown decreased transcripts of PI3K, Akt, p38MAPK, PCNA, Caspase‐3, OCT3/OCT4 and CD44, but elevated p53 and SOX2 transcripts. Our results indicated that PlGF knockdown decreased migration and induced apoptosis through PI3K/Akt1 and p38MAPK signal transduction in AGS cells. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early administration of nifedipine protects against angiotensin II‐induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy through regulating CaMKII–SERCA2a pathway and apoptosis in rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Luo Ji , Zhang Wei‐dong , Du Yi‐meng
Published: March 2016

The calcium channel blocker (CCB), nifedipine, is a more effective treatment for early‐ than late‐stage cardiac hypertrophy. We investigated the effects of early‐ and late‐stage nifedipine administration on calcium homeostasis, CaMKII (Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II) activity and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes under hypertrophic stimulation with angiotensin II (AngII). Primary rat cardiomyocytes were divided into five treatment groups: AK, AngII plus the CaMKII inhibitor, KN‐93; AN‐1 (early‐stage), AngII plus nifedipine × 48 h; AN‐2 (late‐stage), AngII × 48 h, then AngII plus nifedipine × 48 h; C, untreated; and A, AngII × 48 h. The t1/2β [time required for intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) to decline to one half of the peak value] decreased; however, CaMKII and SERCA2a (sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase 2a) activities increased in the AN‐1 group compared with the AK group. In the AN‐2 group compared with the AN‐1 group, CaMKII activity, t1/2α [time required for [Ca2+]i to increase from the bottom to one half of peak value], t1/2β, and apoptosis increased. These results indicate that the timing of CCB administration affects the calcium concentration and apoptosis of hypertrophic cardiomyocytes through the CaMKII–SERCA2a signalling pathway, thereby influencing the drug's protective activity against cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subcutaneous encapsulated fat necrosis
Authors: Aydin Dogu , Berg Jais O.
Published: March 2016

Key Clinical Message

We have described subcutaneous encapsulated fat necrosis, which is benign, usually asymptomatic and underreported. Images have only been published on two earlier occasions, in which the necrotic nodules appear “pearly” than the cloudy yellow surface in present case. The presented image may help future surgeons to establish the diagnosis peroperatively.
Current Status and Future Prospect of Polymer‐Layered Silicate Mixed‐Matrix Membranes for CO2/CH4 Separation
Authors: Jamil Asif , Ching Oh Pei , Shariff Azmi B. M.
Published: March 2016

The mixed‐matrix membrane (MMM), a state‐of‐the‐art polymer‐inorganic hybrid, is a relatively recent addition to the membrane family which adopts the synergistic advantages of the polymer and inorganic phase. Although marked improvement has been achieved by MMMs in CO2/CH4 separation, the development of a defect‐free structure to transcend the Robeson upper bound limit remains a challenge. In previous years, a number of inorganic materials with diverse nature have been studied for CO2/CH4 separation; however, layered silicates have not attracted much attention despite their superior thermal and mechanical properties. Analyses of the potential of using layered silicates as inorganic fillers in MMM fabrication for CO2/CH4 separation are reviewed. Additionally, the immediate challenges toward successful formation of layered silicate‐based MMM and future prospects are addressed.
Intervalence Charge Transfer Mediated by Silicon Nanoparticles
Authors: Peng Yi , Deming Christopher P. , Chen Shaowei
Published: March 2016

Stable silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) were synthesized by using a wet chemical method with (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane as the silicon source and ethynylferrocene as the capping ligands by taking advantage of the unique chemical reactivity of acetylene moieties with silicon hydride on the nanoparticle surface, forming Si−CH=CH− interfacial bonds under UV photoirradiation. Transmission electron microscopic measurements showed good dispersion of the nanoparticles with an average core diameter of 2.96±0.46 nm. From UV/Vis absorption measurements, the nanoparticle bandgap was estimated to be 2.6 eV. XPS measurements confirmed the successful attachment of ethynylferrocene ligands onto the nanoparticle surface, with a footprint consistent with that of ferrocene. Electrochemically, the nanoparticles exhibited only one pair of voltammetric waves in the dark, suggesting a lack of effective electronic communication between the particle‐bound ferrocenyl moieties, because of the low conductivity of the nanoparticle cores; whereas, under UV photoirradiation (365 nm), two pairs of voltammetric peaks were observed, with a potential spacing of 125 mV, suggesting that the nanoparticles behaved analogously to a Class II compound. This was ascribed to photo‐enhanced electronic conductivity of the nanoparticle cores that facilitated intervalence charge transfer of the particle‐bound ferrocene moieties.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Chiral Spiro‐9‐silabifluorenes by Dehydrogenative Silylation: Mechanistic Insights into the Construction of Tetraorganosilicon Stereocenters
Authors: Murai Masahito , Takeuchi Yutaro , Yamauchi Kanae , Kuninobu Yoichiro , Takai Kazuhiko
Published: March 2016

Mechanistic insight into the construction of quaternary silicon chiral centers by rhodium‐catalyzed synthesis of spiro‐9‐silabifluorenes through dehydrogenative silylation is reported. The C2‐symmetric bisphosphine ligand, BINAP, was effective in controlling enantioselectivity, and axially chiral spiro‐9‐silabifluorenes were obtained in excellent yields with high enantiomeric excess. Monitoring of the reaction revealed the presence of a monohydrosilane intermediate as a mixture of two constitutional isomers. The reaction proceeded through two consecutive dehydrogenative silylations, and the absolute configuration was determined in the first silylative cyclization. Competitive reactions with electron‐rich and electron‐deficient dihydrosilanes indicated that the rate of silylative cyclization increased with decreasing electron density on the silicon atom of the starting dihydrosilane. Further investigation disclosed a rare interconversion between the two constitutional isomers of the monohydrosilane intermediate with retention of the absolute configuration.
ChemInform Abstract: Exploring the Color of 3D Transition‐Metal Ions in Trigonal Bipyramidal Coordination: Identification of Purple‐Blue (CoO5) and Beige‐Red (NiO5) Chromophores in LiMgBO3 Host.
Authors: Tamilarasan Subramani , Laha Sourav , Natarajan Srinivasan , Gopalakrishnan Jagannatha
Published: March 2016

Substitution of 3d transition metal ions for Mg in LiMgBO3 by the ceramic method leads to single phase materials LiMg1‐xCoxIIBO3 (0 < x ≤ 1.0), LiMg1‐xNixIIBO3 (0 < x≤ 0.1), LiMg1‐xCuxIIBO3 (0 < x ≤ 0.1), and LiMg1‐xFexIIIBO3 (0 < x ≤ 0.1).
ChemInform Abstract: Hydride in BaTiO2.5H0.5: A Labile Ligand in Solid State Chemistry.
Authors: Kobayashi Yoji , et al.
Published: March 2016

BaTiO2.5H0.5 (I) is used as a starting material in multistep low temperature topochemical routes to access mixed anion compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue and Methyl Violet Using Cation Doped (Sn2+ and Ag+) Barium Tellurite Phosphate, Ba2TeO(PO4)2.
Authors: Reddy C. H. Sudhakar , Sreenu K. , Reddy J. R. , Ravi G. , Guje Ravinder , Malathi M. , Vithal M.
Published: March 2016

Ba2TeO(PO4)2 is prepared by solid state reaction of stoichiometric mixtures of Ba(NO3)2, TeO2, and NH4H2PO4 (650 °C, 48 h) followed by ion exchange with AgNO3 or SnCl2 solutions (20 °C, 24 h) to obtain Ag+ and Sn2+ doped Ba2TeO(PO4)2.
ChemInform Abstract: [Ge2]4‐ Dumbbells with Very Short Ge—Ge Distances in the Zintl Phase Li3NaGe2: A Solid‐State Equivalent to Molecular O2.
Authors: Scherf Lavinia M. , Karttunen Antti J. , Pecher Oliver , Magusin Pieter C. M. M. , Grey Clare P. , Faessler Thomas F.
Published: March 2016

The novel ternary Zintl phase Li3NaGe2 is prepared by heating a stoichiometric mixture of the elements (Ta ampoule in evacuated silica tubes, 400 °C, 7 d; cooling at a rate of 0.5 °C/min).
ChemInform Abstract: Bad‐Metal‐Layered Sulfide Oxide CsV2S2O.
Authors: Valldor Martin , Merz Patrick , Prots Yurii , Schnelle Walter
Published: March 2016

Polycrystalline powder of the new title compound is prepared by solid state reaction of Cs2O1.3, VS, S, and V2O5 (corundum crucible, 700 °C, 40 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Rearrangement of {α‐P2W15} to {PW6} Moieties During the Assembly of Transition‐Metal‐Linked Polyoxometalate Clusters.
Authors: Martin‐Sabi Merce , Winter Ross Stuart , Lydon Claire , Cameron Jamie M. , Long De‐Liang , Cronin Leroy
Published: March 2016

Compounds (IV) and (VI) contain {PW6} fragments generated from the [P2W15O56]12‐ precursor, which demonstrates the transformation of a Dawson lacunae into a Keggin lacunary building block.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel Phosphate Halides BaMnIII[PO4]FCl and BaMnIII[PO4]F2: Effects of Mixed Halides on Crystal Structures and Magnetic Properties.
Authors: Pei Da‐Ting , Sun Wei , Huang Ya‐Xi , Sun Zhi‐Mei , Pan Yuanming , Mi Jin‐Xiao
Published: March 2016

(IV) is easily prepared over a wide range of conditions, whereas pure samples of (III) are obtained only using very low amounts of water, a narrow range of F:Cl ratios, and a long reaction time.
ChemInform Abstract: Structure and Bonding of an Intergrowth Phase Ca7Ag2+xGe7‐x (x ≈ 2/3) Featuring a Zintl‐Type Polyanionic Chain.
Authors: Ponou Simeon , Doverbratt Isa , Lidin Sven , Miller Gordon J.
Published: March 2016

Single crystals of the new title phase (x = 0.62, 0.48) are prepared by solid state reaction of the elements (Nb/Ta tubes, 980 °C for 2 h and 870 °C for 3—5 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Selectfluor Promoted NHC—Oxazoline Gold(I) Complex Catalyzed Cycloaddition/Oxidation Reaction of Enynones with Alkenes.
Authors: Xu Qin , Gu Peng , Wang Feijun , Shi Min
Published: March 2016

A variety of axial chiral NHC‐oxazoline gold(I) complexes are synthesized and combined with Selectfluor in situ to catalyze the oxidative cycloaddition reaction of enynone and alkenes with air as green oxidant.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Indoles and Polycyclic Amides via Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed C—H Activation and Annulation.
Authors: Lin Hui , Li Shuai‐Shuai , Dong Lin
Published: March 2016

Coupling of secondary benzamides (I) with various alkynes results in the formation of N‐acyl indole derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Ruthenium(II) Catalyzed Regiospecific C—H/O—H Annulations of Directing Arenes via Weak Coordination.
Authors: Banerjee Arghya , Santra Sourav Kumar , Mohanta Prakash Ranjan , Patel Bhisma K.
Published: March 2016

Annulation reactions of two different directing arenes with internal alkynes are found to be regioselective via the assistance of weaker carbonyl oxygen in the presence of a stronger nitrogen‐directing site.
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Ring Opening of Di‐isopropylsilylenes Derived from 1,3‐Diols with Alkyl Lithium Reagents.
Authors: Chando Katelyn M. , Bailey Patricia A. , Abramite Joseph A. , Sammakia Tarek
Published: March 2016

The method provides syn‐ or anti‐configured 1,3‐diols with the silane moiety residing at the sterically more demanding position, and depending on the trapping method of the alkoxy‐silane intermediate the products are either isolated as the alcohol or as the methyl ether derivatives.