bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Using Serious Games in Teaching German as a Foreign Language
Authors: Alyaz Yunus , Spaniel-Weise Dorothea , Gursoy Esim
Published: May 2017

The interest in Digital Game-Based Language Learning (DGBLL) has increased considerably in recent years although being a relatively new approach. Despite the interest that DGBLL took, the studies in the context of German as a Foreign Language (FL) are quite limited. Moreover, DGBLL in the Turkish context is not prevalent. Due to this gap in the literature, a research project was launched at a big state university in Turkey in 2014 to explore the potentials and limitations of DGBLL. The study focuses specifically on serious games for FL teaching and learning. The aim of the project, in addition to the promotion of linguistic skills of the learners, is to contribute to the development of professional qualifications of the future FL teachers. The present research aims to report on the pilot study of the project. A one group pre-test post-test research design was used in the study. Quantitative data was collected via two opinion questionnaires implemented at the beginning and at the end of the process as well as a receptive vocabulary test. Qualitative data was collected via semi-structuted interviews and game diaries that participants kept. Two serious games for German was selected and used with traditional dictation, transcription and reading comprehension activities. The results of an 11-week gaming activity indicated significant differences between pre- and post-tests in vocabulary. Additionaly, age was found to be an important factor that affects participants’ attitudes towards serious games. The results indicate that the participants found game activities useful for the development of other language skills.
Terapia por Ondas de Choque Extracorpórea e Laser na redução da dor de indivíduos com fasciíte plantar: revisão sistemática
Authors: Silva Daiana Rodigues , Zang Geandra Da Cruz , Vidmar Marlon Francys , Pimentel Gilnei Lopes
Published: May 2017

Objetivo: Avaliar a efetividade da Terapia por Ondas de Choque Extracorpórea (ESWT) e do Laser na redução da dor de indivíduos com fasciíte plantar. Métodos: Foram feitas buscas de ensaios clínicos randomizados nas bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS e Cochrane até novembro de 2016, nos idiomas inglês e português. Foram incluídos estudos que tinham como forma de tratamento as ESWT ou Laser, comparados com outros métodos, e que avaliaram a dor com a escala visual analógica. Foi utilizada a escala de PEDro para avaliação da qualidade metodológica dos estudos. Resultados: Foram encontrados 131 artigos. Destes, 106 foram excluídos após a leitura de seus títulos e resumos e 15 após sua leitura na íntegra, restando oito que tiveram como forma de tratamento as ESWT e dois o Laser. Conclusão: Dos dez artigos encontrados seis apresentaram resposta estatisticamente significativa em relação à dor, sendo dois sobre Laser e quatro sobre ESWT.
Absenteismo-doença em trabalhadores de higienização: o que dizem os registros oficiais
Authors: Moser Auristela Duarte , Lopes Jaqueline Carmo Machado
Published: May 2017

Introdução. No Brasil, é grande a preocupação com o absenteísmo em muitos setores produtivos. Objetivo. Traçar o perfil de absenteísmo-doença em trabalhadores de higienização em uma instituição de ensino superior. Método. Estudo descritivo e retrospectivo com dados do Programa de Prevenção de Riscos Ambientais (PPRA), de 196 prontuários médicos e 2.880 atestados das estatísticas de absenteísmo-doença de 486 trabalhadores entre 2010 e 2014. Os dados foram tratados pelo IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0. Resultados. Houve predomínio do sexo feminino (92,9%), baixa escolaridade (51,5%), faixa etária de 31 a 45 anos (46%). As causas de absenteísmo-doença foram relacionadas com o capítulo Z da CID-10 (57,5%), correspondente aos Fatores que Influenciam o Estado de Saúde e o Contato com os Serviços de Saúde. Os riscos apurados pelo PPRA para os auxiliares de limpeza foram físico, químico e ergonômico. Conclusão. O perfil de absenteísmo-doença obtido apontou as doenças osteo-musculares e do tecido conjuntivo como as principais relacionadas às faltas com diagnóstico médico.
Diferença entre o uso do ácido hialurônico e as intervenções fisioterapêuticas para tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho: revisão sistemática
Authors: Garcia Luiz Carlos , Binda Aline Cristiane , Daniel Christiane Riedi , Ruaro João Afonso , Ruaro Marinêz Boeing , Fréz Andersom Ricardo
Published: May 2017

Introdução: Existe evidência para diversos recursos fisioterapêuticos utilizados para tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho e, atualmente, na área médica tem-se usado o ácido hialurônico. Objetivos: Identificar estudos que compararam o uso do ácido hialurônico com as intervenções fisioterapêuticas para tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho. Métodos: Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática consultando as bases de dados PubMed, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, LILACS e ACP Journal Club, utilizando os descritores “hyaluronic acid”, “osteoarthritis” e “physical therapy”. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos, ensaios clínicos randomizados e/ou controlados, publicados em inglês, espanhol e português que comparavam o uso do ácido hialurônico com alguma intervenção fisioterapêutica para tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada pelas escalas de Jadad e PEDro. Resultados: Foram encontrados 81 estudos, destes, 7 foram incluídos nesta revisão. Conclusões: Embora existam poucos trabalhos comparando a eficácia de um tratamento ou recurso fisioterapêutico com a aplicação de ácido hialurônico pode-se observar que ambos os tratamentos apresentaram resultados positivos no tratamento da osteoartrite de joelho.
A via de parto interfere nas atividades cotidianas no puerpério imediato?
Authors: Santos Pricila Lima dos , Rett Mariana Tirolli , Lotti Renata Cardoso Baracho , Moccellin Ana Silvia , DeSantana Josimari Melo
Published: May 2017

Introdução: O parto vaginal e a cesariana podem gerar desconfortos comprometendo as atividades funcionais no puerpério. Objetivos: Comparar a dor, a amplitude de movimento (ADM), o desempenho e a limitação funcional de primíparas após o parto vaginal e cesariana. Métodos: Utilizou-se a versão curta do questionário de dor McGill (VC-QDM), a escala visual analógica (EVA), a intensidade de dor presente (IDP), o flexímetro, o teste timed up and go (TUG) e o questionário de limitação funcional. Resultados: Após o parto vaginal, houve relatos de dor “dolorida à palpação” e “cortante” com intensidade severa e IDP desconfortante. Após a cesariana, a ADM de flexão e rotações do tronco foram menores, maior intensidade de dor e necessidade de mais tempo para realização das atividades do TUG, mostrando pior desempenho funcional. Algumas limitações funcionais estiveram presente independente da via de parto. Conclusão: O grupo cesariana apresentou menor ADM, maior intensidade de dor e pior desempenho funcional. Contudo, a maioria das puérperas apresentou alguma limitação funcional.
Efeitos do Watsu na qualidade de vida e quadro doloroso de idosas com fibromialgia
Authors: Antunes Mateus Dias , Vertuan Milena Panício , Miquilin Amanda , Leme Daniel Eduardo da Cunha , Morales Rosangela Cocco , Oliveira Daniel Vicentini de
Published: May 2017

Objetivo: Analisar a influência do Watsu na qualidade de vida e na dor de idosas com fibromialgia. Método: Realizou um estudo de intervenção, quase experimental, onde participaram 17 idosas com fibromialgia, com média de idade de 67,5±4,7 anos. Foi utilizado, pré e pós intervenção, o SF-36 para avaliação da qualidade de vida, e a Escala visual analógica para dor. O protocolo de intervenção foi a realização de 10 sessões de Watsu, sendo duas vezes por semana, com duração de 40 minutos cada. Resultados: ficou evidenciado aumento estatisticamente significativo na Capacidade Funcional (p=0,00445), Limitação por aspectos físicos (p=0,01347), Dor (p=0,00861), Vitalidade (p=0,00044), Limitação por aspectos emocionais (p=0,02019) Saúde mental (p=0,00748). Já a EVA, foi estatisticamente menor na segunda avaliação (p=0,00059). Conclusão: Foi possível verificar que o método Watsu proporcionou benefícios na redução da dor e melhora da qualidade de vida de idosas com de fibromialgia.
Estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea no tratamento da dor pélvica causada pela dismenorréia primária
Authors: Silva Bruna Carla Pereira da , Silva Cláudia Kelly Vieira , Pimentel Tatiana Dos Anjos , Souza Juliana De Oliveira , Januário Priscila De Oliveira , Cruz Ariela Torres
Published: May 2017

Introdução: A dismenorreia causa o afastamento das mulheres ao trabalho, estudos e atividades de vida diária. Objetivos: Verificar a influência da Estimulação Elétrica Nervosa Transcutânea (TENS) na dor pélvica causada pela dismenorréia primária. Métodos: Vinte universitárias foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em dois grupos iguais de dez voluntárias: Grupo Tratamento (GT) e Grupo Controle (GC). Foram submetidas a um tratamento com TENS (GT) e TENS placebo (GC) e avaliadas pela Escala Visual Analógica da Dor (EVA) antes, depois e duas horas após o final do tratamento. Resultados: Houve redução da dor no GT (p = 0,0001) após o tratamento com a manutenção duas horas após o seu término (p = 0,0008). No GC, embora tenha havido uma redução do quadro álgico depois do tratamento (p = 0,0295), esta não se manteve duas horas após o final do mesmo (p = 0,4810). Conclusão: A TENS foi eficaz na redução da dor das participantes.
W cieniu radiacji. Seksualizacje bomby atomowej w kulturze popularnej lat 40. i 50. w Stanach Zjednoczonych
Authors: Urbanowicz Piotr
Published: May 2017

The aim of the article is to present a phenomenon of the sexualization of an atomic
bomb in the popular culture of the 1940s and the 1950s in the United States. On the basis
of sociological and cultural studies, the author lists the functions of this phenomenon.
Furthermore, he uses the examples of press reports and popular cinema to indicate that
the sexualization of the atomic bomb resulted from fear of sterilization and assimilation of
soldiers coming back from the front. The analysis concerns the film I Married a Monster
from Outer Space (1958). The author proves that science fiction films conceptualize social
concerns, and accustom the viewers with atomic tension by means of appropriate narratives.
„Chcą urządzić masakrę, od której oślepłyby wieki...” – bomba atomowa a kultura Zachodu w polskiej poezji socrealistycznej
Authors: Kowalczyk Marcin
Published: May 2017

The atomic bomb used in 1945 by the United States disturbed the military and symbolic
balance of the world then. It became a sign of the Western power. The communist propaganda
sought to neutralize the meaning of a new weapon. The text reconstructs the attempts
of this neutralization and indicates the ways of presentation of nuclear weapons in the
Polish poetry of socialist realism.
Several motifs can be mentioned here: juxtaposition of the atomic bomb with apocalyptic
motifs, highlighting the lack of intellectual and moral qualifications for possessing it,
and emphasizing that it is a dangerous by-product of the Western desire for profit. Above
all, however, the poetry of socialist realism underlined that Western culture is an incomprehensible
and inhuman evil.
Warsztaty z Apokalipsy. Zagrożenia atomową zagładą w reportażach Swietłany Aleksijewicz, Katarzyny Boni oraz Johna Herseya
Authors: Augustyn Kamila
Published: May 2017

The article analyses the reportage of John Hersey, Svetlana Alexievich and Katarzyna
Boni devoted to the victims of the atomic bomb explosion in Hiroshima, as well as the
nuclear reactor accidents in Chernobyl and Fukushima. Presenting the consequences of
disasters, not only in material, but above all in human terms, the author makes an attempt to
find out how societies, including the heroes of reportage, process the trauma of contamination
through culture, and what is the role in this process of the fictionalized type of this genre of
the non-fiction prose. To answer the question whether the contemporary reportage can serve
as a culture-creating factor, the author analyses the linguistic and stylistic features, which
carry cultural meanings, as well as the composition of reportage texts revealing the way the
authors build the world presented of their authentic stories.
„Leci bomba, leci...” – „atomowe” lęki dzieci w latach osiemdziesiątych XX wieku
Authors: Grębecka Zuzannna
Published: May 2017

The article discusses children’s fears and imaginings of an atomic bomb and a nuclear
threat emerging in the memories of the Poles born in the second half of the 1960s and the
1970s. The sources used are ethnographic interviews conducted by the author of the study,
Internet materials and memoirs. The author touches on the issue of transformations of the
propaganda narratives concerning the nuclear threat in the subsequent periods of the People’s Republic of Poland, and the stages of the Cold War at the same time. Further, the article
discusses the memories of this propaganda from the second half of the 1970s and the 1980s,
the influence of family accounts and media reports, as well as concrete views on atomic
weapons, the arms race and the disarmament process.
Mroczna turystyka w cieniu atomu. Zwiedzanie Fukushimy
Authors: Karpiuk Anna , Popławski Błażej
Published: May 2017

This paper discusses the phenomenon of atomic tourism in the light of the Fukushima I
nuclear disaster. The first part outlines research problems and examines the character of
dark tourism at various sites of accidents, disasters and nuclear attacks. The other part brings
into focus the disaster at Fukushima I together with its consequences. The tragic events in
Japan soon gave rise to a tourist movement that has drawn visitors to the ravaged sites.
The paper presents the matter as seen by the Japanese people themselves: journalists, makers
of culture and social activists.
Support for the Confederate battle flag in the Southern United States: Racism or Southern pride?
Authors: Wright Joshua D. , Esses Victoria M.
Published: May 2017

Supporters of the Confederate battle flag often argue that their support is driven by pride in the South, not negative racial attitudes. Opponents of the Confederate battle flag often argue that the flag represents racism, and that support for the flag is an expression of racism and an attempt to maintain oppression of Blacks in the Southern United States. We evaluate these two competing views in explaining attitudes toward the Confederate battle flag in the Southern United States through a survey of 526 Southerners. In the aggregate, our latent variable model suggests that White support for the flag is driven by Southern pride, political conservatism, and blatant negative racial attitudes toward Blacks. Using cluster-analysis we were able to distinguish four distinct sub-groups of White Southerners: Cosmopolitans, New Southerners, Traditionalists, and Supremacists. The greatest support for the Confederate battle flag is seen among Traditionalists and Supremacists; however, Traditionalists do not display blatant negative racial attitudes toward Blacks, while Supremacists do. Traditionalists make up the majority of Confederate battle flag supporters in our sample, weakening the claim that supporters of the flag are generally being driven by negative racial attitudes toward Blacks.
Mechanical Adaptability of the MMP‐Responsive Film Improves the Functionality of Endothelial Cell Monolayer
Authors: Hu Mi , Chang Hao , Zhang He , Wang Jing , Lei Wen‐xi , Li Bo‐chao , Ren Ke‐feng , Ji Jian
Published: May 2017

Extracellular matrix and cells are inherent in coordinating and adapting to each other during all physiological and pathological processes. Synthetic materials, however, show rarely reciprocal and spatiotemporal responses to cells, and lacking self‐adapting properties as well. Here, a mechanical adaptability based on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) sensitive polyelectrolyte film is reported. Poly‐lysine (PLL) and methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HA‐MA) nanolayers are employed to build the thin film through the layer‐by‐layer assembly, and it is further crosslinked using MMP sensitive peptides, which endows the films with changeable mechanical properties in response to MMPs. It is demonstrated that stiffness of the (PLL/HA‐MA) films increases with the crosslinking, and then decreases in response to a treatment of enzyme. Consequently, the crosslinked (PLL/HA‐MA) films reveal effective growth of endothelial cells (ECs), leading to fast formation of EC monolayer. Importantly, significantly improved endothelial function of the EC monolayer, which is characterized by integrity, biomolecules release, expression of function related gene, and antithrombotic properties, is achieved along with the decrosslinking of the film because of EC‐secreted MMPs. These results suggest that mechanical adaptability of substrate in Young's modulus plays a significant role in endothelial progression, which shows great application potential in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and organ‐on‐a‐chip.
Large‐Area, All‐Solid, and Flexible Electric Double Layer Capacitors Based on CNT Fiber Electrodes and Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Senokos Evgeny , Reguero Víctor , Cabana Laura , Palma Jesús , Marcilla Rebeca , Vilatela Juan José
Published: May 2017

This work presents a scalable method to produce robust all‐solid electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs), compatible with roll‐to‐roll processes and structural laminate composite fabrication. It consists in sandwiching and pressing an ionic liquid‐based polymer electrolyte membrane between two carbon nanotube (CNT) fiber sheet electrodes at room temperature, and laminating with ordinary plastic film. This fabrication method is demonstrated by assembling large‐area devices of up to 100 cm2 with electrodes fabricated in‐house, as well as with commercial CNT fiber sheets. Freestanding flexible devices operating at 3.5 V exhibit 28 F g−1 of specific capacitance, 11.4 W h kg−1 of energy density, and 46 kW kg−1 of power density. These values are nearly identical to control samples with pure ionic liquid. The solid EDLCs could be repeatedly bent and folded 180° without degradation of their properties, with a reversible 25% increase in energy density in the bent state. Devices produced using CNT fiber electrodes with a higher degree of orientation and therefore better mechanical properties show similar electrochemical properties combined with composite specific strength and modulus of 39 and 577 MPa SG−1 for a fiber mass fraction of 11 wt%, similar to a structural thermoplastic and with higher specific strength than copper.
Whole exome sequencing of families with 1q21.1 microdeletion or microduplication
Authors: Qiao Ying , Badduke Chansonette , Tang Flamingo , Cowieson David , Martell Sally , Lewis Suzanne M. E. , Peñaherrera Maria S. , Robinson Wendy P. , Volchuk Allen , Rajcan‐Separovic Evica
Published: May 2017

Recurrent microduplications/microdeletions of 1q21.1 are characterized by variable phenotypes ranging from normal development to developmental delay (DD) and congenital anomalies. Their interpretation is challenging especially in families with affected and unaffected carriers. We used whole exome sequencing (WES) to look for sequence variants in two male probands with inherited 1q21.1 CNVs that could explain their more severe phenotypes. One proband had a 1q21.1 deletion transmitted from maternal grandmother, while the other had a paternal duplication. We found mutations in five genes (SMPD1, WNK3, NOS1, ATF6, and EFHC1) that could contribute to the more severe phenotype in the probands in comparison to their mildly affected or unaffected 1q21.1 CNV carrying relatives. Interestingly, all genes have roles in stress responses (oxidative/Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)/osmotic). One of the variants was in an X‐linked gene WNK3 and segregated with the developmental features and X inactivation pattern in the family with 1q21.1 deletion transmitted from maternal grandmother. In silico analysis of all rare deleterious variants in both probands identified enrichment in nervous system diseases, metabolic pathways, protein processing in the ER and protein export. Our studies suggest that rare deleterious variants outside of the 1q21.1 CNV, individually or as a pool, could contribute to phenotypic variability in carriers of this CNV. Rare deleterious variants in stress response genes are of interest and raise the possibility of susceptibility of carriers to variable environmental influences. Next generation sequencing of additional familial cases with 1q21.1 CNV could further help determine the possible causes of phenotypic variability in carriers of this CNV.
Synthesis, Conformational Studies and Biological Profiles of Tetrahydrofuran Amino‐Acid‐Containing Cationic Antitubercular Peptides
Authors: Pal Sudip , Ghosh Uttam , Singh Gajendra , Alam Faiyaz , Singh Shyam , Chopra Sidharth , Sinha Sudhir , Ampapathi Ravi Sankar , Chakraborty Tushar Kanti
Published: May 2017

Linear cationic tetra‐ and octapeptides containing a tetrahydrofuran amino acid were synthesised, a conformational analysis performed, and their structure–activity relationships explored by evaluating their antibacterial, antitubercular and cytotoxic properties. Only the octapeptides showed activities, which was weak to moderate against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria for only two peptides, but was very significant against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and peptides were devoid of toxicity towards mammalian Vero cells. N‐Terminus‐deprotected esters showed the best results with excellent selectivity for M. tuberculosis and these peptides promise to be potential leads.
Chromatin Regulates Genome Targeting with Cisplatin
Authors: Zacharioudakis Emmanouil , Agarwal Poonam , Bartoli Alexandra , Abell Nathan , Kunalingam Lavaniya , Bergoglio Valérie , Xhemalce Blerta , Miller Kyle M. , Rodriguez Raphaël
Published: May 2017

Cisplatin derivatives can form various types of DNA lesions (DNA‐Pt) and trigger pleiotropic DNA damage responses. Here, we report a strategy to visualize DNA‐Pt with high resolution, taking advantage of a novel azide‐containing derivative of cisplatin we named APPA, a cellular pre‐extraction protocol and the labeling of DNA‐Pt by means of click chemistry in cells. Our investigation revealed that pretreating cells with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor SAHA led to detectable clusters of DNA‐Pt that colocalized with the ubiquitin ligase RAD18 and the replication protein PCNA. Consistent with activation of translesion synthesis (TLS) under these conditions, SAHA and cisplatin cotreatment promoted focal accumulation of the low‐fidelity polymerase Polη that also colocalized with PCNA. Remarkably, these cotreatments synergistically triggered mono‐ubiquitination of PCNA and apoptosis in a RAD18‐dependent manner. Our data provide evidence for a role of chromatin in regulating genome targeting with cisplatin derivatives and associated cellular responses.
Total Synthesis of a Dimeric Thymol Derivative Isolated from Arnica sachalinensis
Authors: De Silvestro Irene , Drew Samuel L. , Nichol Gary S. , Duarte Fernanda , Lawrence Andrew L.
Published: May 2017

The total synthesis of a dimeric thymol derivative (thymarnicol) isolated from Arnica sachalinensis was accomplished in 6 steps. A key biomimetic Diels–Alder dimerization was found to occur at ambient temperature and the final oxidative cyclization occurs when the substrate is exposed to air and visible light. These results indicate that this natural product is likely the result of spontaneous (non‐enzyme‐mediated) reactivity.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated [4+2] Cycloaddition of Styrenes: Synthesis of Tetralin Derivatives
Authors: Wang Leifeng , Wu Fengjin , Chen Jiean , Nicewicz David A. , Huang Yong
Published: May 2017

We report a formal [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of styrenes under visible‐light catalysis. Two styrene molecules with different electronic or steric properties were found to react with each other in good yield and excellent chemo‐ and regioselectivity. This reaction provides direct access to polysubstituted tetralin scaffolds from readily available styrenes. Sophisticated tricyclic and tetracyclic tetralin analogues were prepared in high yield and up to 20/1 diasteroselectivity from cyclic substrates.
Calcium Hydride Reactivity: Formation of an Anionic N‐Heterocyclic Olefin Ligand
Authors: Causero Andrea , Elsen Holger , Pahl Jürgen , Harder Sjoerd
Published: May 2017

An anionic N‐heterocyclic olefin ligand was serendipitously obtained by reaction of an amidinate calcium hydride complex with 1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐methyleneimidazole (NHO). Instead of anticipated addition to the polarized C=CH2bond to form an unstabilized alkylcalcium complex, deprotonation of the NHO ligand in the backbone was observed. Preference for deprotonation versus addition is explained by loss of aromaticity in the latter conversion. Theoretical calculations demonstrate the substantially increased ylidic character of this anionic NHO ligand which, like N‐heterocyclic dicarbenes, shows strong bifunctional coordination.
A photochemical route to ferrocenyl‐substituted ferrapyrrolinone complexes
Authors: Jha Badri Nath , Raghuvanshi Abhinav , Joshi Raj Kumar , Mobin Shaikh M. , Mathur Pradeep
Published: May 2017

In the presence of iron pentacarbonyl, photochemical reaction between phenylisocyanate and ferrocenylacetylene results in ferrapyrrolinone complex [Fe2(CO)6(μ2‐η3‐FcC═C(H)C(O)NPh)] (1) and maleimide 3‐ferrocenyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐dione (2). Under similar experimental conditions, ferrocenyl−/phenyl‐substituted butadiyne primarily shows the activation of only one C☰C bond and results in ferrapyrrolinone complexes [Fe2(CO)6(μ2‐η3‐FcC═C(C☰CR)C(O)NPh)] (3, R = Fc; 3a, R = Ph), maleimides 3‐ferrocenyl‐1‐phenyl‐4‐(ferrocenylethynyl)‐1H–pyrrole‐2,5‐dione (5) and 3‐ferrocenyl‐1‐phenyl‐4‐(phenylethynyl)‐1H–pyrrole‐2,5‐dione (5a) and [Fe2(CO)6(μ2‐η3‐FcC═C(R)C(O)NPh)] (4; R = 3‐ferrocenyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐dione). Compound 4 consists of ferrapyrrolinone and a maleimide unit, formed by the activation of both C☰C bonds of diferrocenylbutadiyne. Activation of both C☰C bonds in a substituted butadiyne is a rare observation. Formation of the ferrapyrrolinone compounds is an advance over the earlier reported methods which generally use internal alkynes and involve prior synthesis of other clusters.
Copper(I) complex of 1,3‐DimethylBarbituric acid modified SBA‐15 and its catalytic role for the synthesis of 2,3‐Dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones and Imidazoles
Authors: Hajjami Maryam , Ghorbani Farshid , Yousofvand Zakieh
Published: May 2017

An efficient one‐pot method for synthesis of 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones and tri/tetra substituted‐1H‐imidazoles has been accomplished in the presence of catalytic amounts of Cu(I)‐1,3‐dimethylbarbituric acid modified SBA‐15 as heterogeneous catalyst with good to excellent yields. The catalyst is reusable and can be applied several times without any decrease in product yield. The synthesized catalyst was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms (BET), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).
Effects of silica nanoparticles on the mean drop size and drop‐size distribution in a Scheibel extraction column
Authors: Houshyar Shahrokh , Torab‐Mostaedi Meisam , Mousavi Seyed Hamed , Moosavian Seyed Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2017

In this study, the effect of hydrodynamic parameters such as rotor speed, dispersed phase velocity, continuous phase velocity on the drop size distribution and the Sauter mean‐drop diameter (d32) were studied in the absence and presence of silica nanoparticles with the different weight fraction of them (0.01, 0.03 and 0.05 wt%) in a Scheibel extraction column. The experiment was conducted in a toluene/water system, and the results indicated that the effect of the rotor speed on the Sauter mean‐drop diameter was far more significant than the effect of the dispersed and continuous phase velocities. Also, the effects of the hydrodynamic parameters are more significant in lower concentration of silica nanoparticles. The log‐normal probability distribution function was used to predict the drop‐size distribution. Furthermore, some correlations were presented to anticipate the parameters of this function and the mean drop size in terms of the operating parameters and the physical properties of the systems. These equations conformed well to the empirical data. © 2017 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of graphene‐agar and graphene oxide‐agar composites
Authors: Belay Mezigebu , Nagarale Rajaram K. , Verma Vivek
Published: May 2017

Biodegradable counterparts of petro plastics for packaging applications are highly desired due to environmental considerations. Agar can be a potential material due to its availability and biodegradability. However, moderate mechanical strength and thermal stability, in addition to poor resistance against water, needs to be addressed before agar can be commercially implemented as packaging material. As a step toward this objective, graphene oxide (GO) and reduced GO (RGO) were incorporated in agar and were solution casted in the form of films. The tensile strength was increased by 118.4% and 69.4% at 2% GO and 2% RGO loading, respectively. Higher interfacial bonding between GO and agar compared to that of RGO and agar was attributed for the observed mechanical properties. Resistance to swelling and hydrophobicity (contact angle) of the composite were improved as well when compared to pure agar. The tensile strength and the contact angle values were however, decreased after the addition of 2% GO and 2% RGO. The morphological investigation showed that the formation of pores at higher concentration of reinforcement was the contributing factor for the decrease in tensile strength. No significant change in thermal properties was observed. The transmittance value was reduced to 0% after the incorporation of GO and RGO. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45085.
Improving student engagement on programming using app development with Android devices
Authors: Fernández César , Vicente María Asunción , Galotto M. Mar , Martinez‐Rach Miguel , Pomares Alejandro
Published: May 2017

This work presents our experience on Android teaching at Miguel Hernández University (Elche, Spain). We decided to orientate our courses toward Android app development, and encouraged students to carry their Android phones or tablets to the classroom. The results, in terms of student motivation, satisfaction and engagement in programming have been extraordinary.
Physically inspired, interactive lightning generation
Authors: Yun Jeongsu , Son Myungbae , Choi Byungyoon , Kim Theodore , Yoon Sung‐Eui
Published: May 2017

We present an interactive technique for generating realistic lightning. Our method captures the main characteristics of the dielectric breakdown model, a physical model for lightning formation. Our algorithm uses a distance‐based approximation to quickly compute the electric potentials of different charge types. In particular, we use a rational function in lieu of summed potentials to better produce interesting lightning patterns. We also propose to use the waypoints commonly available in many game scenes to guide lightning shapes in complex scenes. We found that our algorithm is 2 times faster than the state‐of‐the art method with better controls on lighting shapes, and can generate realistic lightning shapes interactively.
Amphoteric Borylketenimines: Versatile Intermediates in the Synthesis of Borylated Heterocycles
Authors: Kaldas Sherif J. , O'Keefe Kowan T. V. , Mendoza‐Sanchez Rodrigo , Yudin Andrei K.
Published: May 2017

We report the first synthesis of amphoteric borylketenimines from ethynyl N‐methyliminodiacetic acid (MIDA) boronate and sulfonyl azides via copper catalysis. In situ trapping of these intermediates with various nucleophiles provided access to novel borylated azetidimines, iminocoumarins, amides, iminooxetanes, and amidines. The described strategy based on borylketenimines offers high levels of chemo‐ and regioselectivity, enabling the synthesis of unprecedented borylated molecules. This work highlights the unexplored utility of borylketenimines in the synthesis of potentially bioactive molecules.
Efficient treatment of actual pharmaceutical wastewater by wet oxidation process in subcritical water apparatus
Authors: Ahmad Umme Marium , Pu Yuan , Qi Weikang , Foster Neil R. , Chen Jian‐Feng , Wang Dan
Published: May 2017

Pharmaceutical wastewater is a typical persistent refractory organic industrial wastewater. In this work, a simple, one‐step method for the treatment of pharmaceutical wastewater was developed using wet oxidation (WO) in a subcritical water apparatus, with detailed studies on the effects of operating parameters, including the temperature of the system, the ratio of reactants, and pH of the wastewater. Under optimized experimental conditions, efficient treatment of actual pharmaceutical wastewater was achieved, with removal of 100 % chemical oxygen demand (COD), 98 % nitrate ion, 98 % nitrite ion, and 68 % ammonium ion. Our results suggest that the WO process, using a subcritical water apparatus, is a promising method of treatment for pharmaceutical wastewater.
Direct electrochemical regeneration of enzymatic cofactor 1,4‐NADH on a cathode composed of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes decorated with nickel nanoparticles
Authors: Ali Irshad , Ullah Nehar , McArthur Mark A. , Coulombe Sylvain , Omanovic Sasha
Published: May 2017

Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were grown on a stainless steel mesh and decorated with nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs). The developed Ni NP‐MWCNT material was then used as a cathode in an electrochemical batch reactor to electrocatalytically convert NAD+ to enzymatically‐active 1,4‐NADH. The regeneration of 1,4‐NADH was studied at various electrode potentials. At electrode potential of −1.6 V, a very high recovery (relative amount of 1,4‐NADH in the product mixture) was obtained, 98 ± 1 %. In comparison, to achieve the same recovery on a non‐decorated MWCNT cathode, a much higher cathodic potential was needed (−2.3 V), establishing the importance of Ni NPs on the electrocatalytic activity in reducing NAD+ to 1,4‐NADH. It was postulated that hydrogen adsorbs on Ni NPs immobilized on MWCNTs to form Ni‐Hads, and this activated hydrogen rapidly reacts with neighbouring NAD‐radicals, preventing the dimerization of the latter species, ultimately yielding 1,4‐NADH.
Catalytic Amidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxamide over Alkali Manganese Oxides
Authors: Li Xiaofang , Jia Xiuquan , Ma Jiping , Xu Yongming , Huang Yizheng , Xu Jie
Published: May 2017

2,5‐Furandicarboxamide was firstly synthesized in yield of 85% via catalytic oxidative amidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural with aqueous NH3 over alkali manganese oxides of α‐MnO2/NaxMnO2. The intermediates of 5‐hydroxymethyl‐furonitrile, 2,5‐dicyanofuran, and 5‐cyano‐2‐furancarboxamide were verified and their reactivities were further examined. The kinetic analysis results showed that the transformation of intermediate product of 5‐cyano‐2‐furancarboxamide to 2,5‐furan‐dicarboxamide is a slower step, which is closely relative to the reaction temperature and basicity of catalyst.
Uncertainty quantification of 2 models of cardiac electromechanics
Authors: Hurtado Daniel E. , Castro Sebastián , Madrid Pedro
Published: May 2017

Computational models of the heart have reached a maturity level that render them useful for in silico studies of arrhythmia and other cardiac diseases. However, the translation to the clinic of cardiac simulations critically depends on demonstrating the accuracy, robustness, and reliability of the underlying computational models under the presence of uncertainties. In this work, we study for the first time the effect of parameter uncertainty on 2 state‐of‐the‐art coupled models of excitation‐contraction of cardiac tissue. To this end, we perform forward uncertainty propagation and sensitivity analyses to understand how variability in key maximal conductances affect selected quantities of interest, such as the action potential duration (APD90), maximum intracellular calcium concentration, cardiac stretch, and stress. Our results suggest a strong linear relationship between selected maximal conductances and quantities of interest for a variability in parameters up to 25%, which justifies the construction of linear response surfaces that are used to compute the empirical probability density functions of all the quantities of interest under study. For both electromechanical models analyzed, uncertainty in the material parameters associated to the passive mechanical response of cardiac tissue does not affect the duration of action potentials, neither the amplitude of intracellular calcium concentrations. Our results confirm the poor mechanoelectric feedback that classical models of cardiac electromechanics have, even under the presence of parameter uncertainty.
The role of angled‐tip microcatheter and microsphere injection velocity in liver radioembolization: A computational particle–hemodynamics study
Authors: Aramburu Jorge , Antón Raúl , Rivas Alejandro , Ramos Juan Carlos , Sangro Bruno , Bilbao José Ignacio
Published: May 2017

Liver radioembolization is a promising treatment option for combating liver tumors. It is performed by placing a microcatheter in the hepatic artery and administering radiation‐emitting microspheres through the arterial bloodstream so that they get lodged in the tumoral bed. In avoiding nontarget radiation, the standard practice is to conduct a pretreatment, in which the microcatheter location and injection velocity are decided. However, between pretreatment and actual treatment, some of the parameters that influence the particle distribution in the liver can vary, resulting in radiation‐induced complications. The present study aims to analyze the influence of a commercially available microcatheter with an angled tip and particle injection velocity in terms of segment‐to‐segment particle distribution. Specifically, 4 tip orientations and 2 injection velocities are combined to yield a set of 8 numerical simulations of the particle‐hemodynamics in a patient‐specific truncated hepatic artery. For each simulation, 4 cardiac pulses are simulated. Particles are injected during the first cycle, and the remaining pulses enable the majority of the injected particles to exit the computational domain. Results indicate that, in terms of injection velocity, particles are more spread out in the cross‐sectional lumen areas as the injection velocity increases. The tip's orientation also plays a role because it influences the near‐tip hemodynamics, therefore altering the particle travel through the hepatic artery. However, results suggest that particle distribution tries to match the blood flow split, therefore particle injection velocity and microcatheter tip orientation playing a minor role in segment‐to‐segment particle distribution.
High‐Power Graphene–Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Ansaldo Alberto , Bondavalli Paolo , Bellani Sebastiano , Del Rio Castillo Antonio Esau , Prato Mirko , Pellegrini Vittorio , Pognon Grégory , Bonaccorso Francesco
Published: May 2017

The bulky structure of current power sources is hindering the widespread development of next‐generation electronics. Here, we propose a graphene/single wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) hybrid structure for the realization of high‐performance supercapacitors. The devices are assembled by using 2 cm2 area hybrid graphene/SWCNT electrodes, designed by combining a scalable solution‐processing method (e.g., liquid phase exfoliation of pristine graphite and de‐bundling of SWCNTs) with dynamic spray‐gun deposition, and an aqueous electrolyte (3 m LiNO3). This architecture allows us to effectively balance the supercapacitors performance achieving remarkable electrode gravimetric capacitance and specific energy at 2 mV s−1 of 104 F g−1, 20.8 Wh kg−1, respectively, and a maximum specific power of 92.3 kW kg−1. Our results, based on industrially scalable materials production and deposition methods, represent a real breakthrough compared to state‐of‐the‐art lab‐scale devices.
A reflection on the origins, evolution, and future of PRAGMA
Authors: Arzberger Peter
Published: May 2017

All of the papers in this special collection have been shaped by and/or have helped shape PRAGMA. This paper, a reflection on PRAGMA, will provide additional technical, scientific, and human context to many of these papers. We hope to illustrate that it is the people who set directions by following their interests or posing questions, who make progress by honoring their commitments and who build community by establishing open communications and trust.
Thermophysical Characterization of Ionic Liquids Based on the Perfluorobutanesulfonate Anion: Experimental and Soft‐SAFT Modeling Results
Authors: Pereiro Ana B. , Llovell Fèlix , Araújo João M. M. , Santos Andreia S. S. , Rebelo Luís Paulo N. , Piñeiro Manuel M. , Vega Lourdes F.
Published: May 2017

Fluorinated ionic liquids (FILs) exhibit complex molecular behavior, where three different nanodomains (polar, hydrogenated nonpolar, and fluorinated nonpolar) have been identified by molecular simulations. Given the high number of possible anion/cation combinations, a theoretical tool able to describe the thermophysical properties of these compounds in a systematic, rapid, and accurate manner is highly desirable. We present here a combined experimental–theoretical methodology to obtain the phase, interface, and transport properties of the 1‐alkyl‐3‐methylimidazolium perfluorobutanesulfonate ([CnC1Im][C4F9SO3]) family. In addition to providing new experimental data, an extended version of the Statistical Associating Fluid Theory (soft‐SAFT) is used to describe the physicochemical behavior of the [CnC1Im][C4F9SO3] family. A mesoscopic molecular model is built based on the analysis of the chemical structures of these FILs, and supported by quantum chemical calculations to study the charge distribution of the anion, where only the basic physical features are considered. The resulting molecular parameters are related to the molecular weight, providing the basis for thermophysical predictions of similar compounds. The theory is also able to predict the minimum in the surface tension versus the length of the hydrogenated alkyl chain, experimentally found at n=8. The viscosity parameters are also in agreement with the free‐volume calculations obtained from experiments.
The Nephrotoxicity of Vancomycin
Authors: Filippone EJ , Kraft WK , Farber JL
Published: May 2017

Vancomycin use is often associated with nephrotoxicity. It remains uncertain, however, to what extent vancomycin is directly responsible, as numerous potential risk factors for acute kidney injury frequently coexist. Herein, we critically examine available data in adult patients pertinent to this question. We review the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of vancomycin metabolism. Efficacy and safety data are discussed. The pathophysiology of vancomycin nephrotoxicity is considered. Risk factors for nephrotoxicity are enumerated, including the potential synergistic nephrotoxicity of vancomycin and piperacillin‐tazobactam. Suggestions for clinical practice and future research are given.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology in primary cutaneous tumors
Authors: Bharani Vani , Kumar Rajesh , Gupta Nalini , Srinivasan Radhika , Rajwanshi Arvind , Nahar Uma , Dey Pranab
Published: May 2017

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) is occasionally used in the evaluation of primary skin tumors. However, in routine evaluation of any soft tissue swelling we encounter the cases of skin lesions. It is essential to know FNAB features of skin lesions.

Materials and methods

We present detailed cytomorphologic features with histologic correlation of 28 primary skin tumors, evaluated over a period of 4 years.

Result

An accurate diagnosis was provided in 42.8% cases, while benign or malignant nature was correctly established in 82.1% cases.

Conclusions

The most common cause of incorrect diagnosis was sampling error and a definitive diagnosis was not provided in adnexal tumors due to overlap of cytologic features and lack of availability of architectural features. The knowledge of cytological features of the skin adnexal tumor is helpful to avoid any mistaken diagnosis. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:681–688. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of RBC‐microparticles in stored whole blood bags – a promising marker to detect blood doping in sports?
Authors: Voss Sven Christian , Jaganjac Morana , Al‐Thani Amna Mohamed , Grivel Jean‐Charles , Raynaud Christophe Michel , Al‐Jaber Hind , Al‐Menhali Afnan Saleh , Merenkov Zeyed Ahmad , Alsayrafi Mohammed , Latiff Aishah , Georgakopoulos Costas
Published: May 2017

Blood doping in sports is prohibited by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). To find a possible biomarker for the detection of blood doping, we investigated the changes in blood stored in CPDA‐1 blood bags of eight healthy subjects who donated one unit of blood. Aliquots were taken on days 0, 14, and 35. Platelet‐free plasma was prepared and stored at −80°C until analysis on a flow cytometer dedicated for the analysis of microparticles (MPs). Changes in the number of red blood cell (RBC) ‐MPs were highly significant (p < 0.0001) with a mean of 219 (10^3/μL) on day 0 changing to 23 120 (10^3/μL) on day 14 and 29 310 (10^3/μL) on day 35. We conclude that RBC‐MPs seem to be a promising biomarker for doping control but confirmation by a transfusion study is necessary.
Dissimilar responses of larch stands in northern Siberia to increasing temperatures—a field and simulation based study
Authors: Wieczorek Mareike , Kruse Stefan , Epp Laura S. , Kolmogorov Alexei , Nikolaev Anatoly N. , Heinrich Ingo , Jeltsch Florian , Pestryakova Lyudmila A. , Zibulski Romy , Herzschuh Ulrike
Published: May 2017

Arctic and alpine treelines worldwide differ in their reactions to climate change. A northward advance of or densification within the treeline ecotone will likely influence climate–vegetation feedback mechanisms. In our study, which was conducted in the Taimyr Depression in the North Siberian Lowlands, w present a combined field‐ and model‐based approach helping us to better understand the population processes involved in the responses of the whole treeline ecotone, spanning from closed forest to single‐tree tundra, to climate warming. Using information on stand structure, tree age, and seed quality and quantity from seven sites, we investigate effects of intra‐specific competition and seed availability on the specific impact of recent climate warming on larch stands. Field data show that tree density is highest in the forest‐tundra, and average tree size decreases from closed forest to single‐tree tundra. Age‐structure analyses indicate that the trees in the closed forest and forest‐tundra have been present for at least ~240 yr. At all sites except the most southerly ones, past establishment is positively correlated with regional temperature increase. In the single‐tree tundra, however, a change in growth form from krummholz to erect trees, beginning ~130 yr ago, rather than establishment date has been recorded. Seed mass decreases from south to north, while seed quantity increases. Simulations with LAVESI (Larix Vegetation Simulator) further suggest that relative density changes strongly in response to a warming signal in the forest‐tundra while intra‐specific competition limits densification in the closed forest and seed limitation hinders densification in the single‐tree tundra. We find striking differences in strength and timing of responses to recent climate warming. While forest‐tundra stands recently densified, recruitment is almost non‐existent at the southern and northern end of the ecotone due to autecological processes. Palaeo‐treelines may therefore be inappropriate to infer past temperature changes at a fine scale. Moreover, a lagged treeline response to past warming will, via feedback mechanisms, influence climate change in the future.