bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membrane Fusion Mediated Intracellular Delivery of Lipid Bilayer Coated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Yang Jian , Tu Jing , Lamers Gerda E. M. , Olsthoorn René C. L. , Kros Alexander
Published: September 2017

Protein delivery into the cytosol of cells is a challenging topic in the field of nanomedicine, because cellular uptake and endosomal escape are typically inefficient, hampering clinical applications. In this contribution cuboidal mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) containing disk‐shaped cavities with a large pore diameter (10 nm) are studied as a protein delivery vehicle using cytochrome‐c (cytC) as a model membrane‐impermeable protein. To ensure colloidal stability, the MSNs are coated with a fusogenic lipid bilayer (LB) and cellular uptake is induced by a complementary pair of coiled‐coil (CC) lipopeptides. Coiled‐coil induced membrane fusion leads to the efficient cytosolic delivery of cytC and triggers apoptosis of cells. Delivery of these LB coated MSNs in the presence of various endocytosis inhibitors strongly suggests that membrane fusion is the dominant mechanism of cellular uptake. This method is potentially a universal way for the efficient delivery of any type of inorganic nanoparticle or protein into cells mediated by CC induced membrane fusion.
Highly Efficient Rubrene–Graphene Charge‐Transfer Interfaces as Phototransistors in the Visible Regime
Authors: Jones Gareth F. , Pinto Rui M. , De Sanctis Adolfo , Nagareddy V. Karthik , Wright C. David , Alves Helena , Craciun Monica F. , Russo Saverio
Published: September 2017

Atomically thin materials such as graphene are uniquely responsive to charge transfer from adjacent materials, making them ideal charge‐transport layers in phototransistor devices. Effective implementation of organic semiconductors as a photoactive layer would open up a multitude of applications in biomimetic circuitry and ultra‐broadband imaging but polycrystalline and amorphous thin films have shown inferior performance compared to inorganic semiconductors. Here, the long‐range order in rubrene single crystals is utilized to engineer organic‐semiconductor–graphene phototransistors surpassing previously reported photogating efficiencies by one order of magnitude. Phototransistors based upon these interfaces are spectrally selective to visible wavelengths and, through photoconductive gain mechanisms, achieve responsivity as large as 107 A W−1 and a detectivity of 9 × 1011 Jones at room temperature. These findings point toward implementing low‐cost, flexible materials for amplified imaging at ultralow light levels.
Harnessing Photochemical Shrinkage in Direct Laser Writing for Shape Morphing of Polymer Sheets
Authors: Bauhofer Anton A. , Krödel Sebastian , Rys Jan , Bilal Osama R. , Constantinescu Andrei , Daraio Chiara
Published: September 2017

Structures that change their shape in response to external stimuli unfold possibilities for more efficient and versatile production of 3D objects. Direct laser writing (DLW) is a technique based on two‐photon polymerization that allows the fabrication of microstructures with complex 3D geometries. Here, it is shown that polymerization shrinkage in DLW can be utilized to create structures with locally controllable residual stresses that enable programmable, self‐bending behavior. To demonstrate this concept, planar and 3D‐structured sheets are preprogrammed to evolve into bio‐inspired shapes (lotus flowers and shark skins). The fundamental mechanisms that control the self‐bending behavior are identified and tested with microscale experiments. Based on the findings, an analytical model is introduced to quantitatively predict bending curvatures of the fabricated sheets. The proposed method enables simple fabrication of objects with complex geometries and precisely controllable shape morphing potential, while drastically reducing the required fabrication times for producing 3D, hierarchical microstructures over large areas in the order of square centimeters.
Chemo‐ and Diastereoselective Construction of Indenopyrazolines via a Cascade aza‐Michael/Aldol Annulation of Huisgen Zwitterions with 2‐Arylideneindane‐1,3‐diones
Authors: Li Yuming , Zhang Haikun , Wei Rong , Miao Zhiwei
Published: September 2017

A cascade aza‐Michael/Aldol annulation of 2‐arylideneindane‐1,3‐diones with in situ generated Huisgen zwitterions has been developed. This reaction afforded the desired products in moderate to good yields (up to 87%) with excellent chemo‐ and diastereoselectivity (up to 20:1). This strategy allows facile diastereoselective preparation of biologically important indenopyrazoline derivatives containing two contiguous chiral centers including a quaternary stereogenic center.

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Hematological Effects of Gold Nanorods on Erythrocytes: Hemolysis and Hemoglobin Conformational and Functional Changes
Authors: Zhao Xingchen , Lu Dawei , Liu Qian S. , Li Yiling , Feng Rui , Hao Fang , Qu Guangbo , Zhou Qunfang , Jiang Guibin
Published: September 2017

Gold nanorods (GNRs) are a unique class of metal nanostructures that have attractive potentials in biomedical applications, and the concern on their biological safety is concomitantly increasing. Hemocompatibility is extremely important as their contact with blood circulation is unavoidable during in vivo delivery. Herein, two kinds of GNRs coated with hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (C‐GNRs) or poly(sodium‐p‐styrenesulfonate) are used to test their potential toxicological effects in blood. C‐GNRs with positive surface charges efficiently induce hemolysis when encountering erythrocytes. Cellular internalization of C‐GNRs is found, and they subsequently bind with hemoglobin, forming bioconjugates. The interaction between hemoglobin and C‐GNR (stoichiometry 32.7:1) is regulated by electrostatic forces. Chromophores like tryptophan (Trp) are found to interact with C‐GNRs, causing enhancement in fluorescence intensity. The conformation of protein is partially altered, evidenced by decrease in α‐helical, increase in β‐sheet and random coil of hemoglobin. Although C‐GNRs do not essentially decrease oxygen binding capacity of hemoglobin, they hamper oxygen release from the protein. Heme, the oxygen binding unit, releases from hemoglobin upon C‐GNR treatment, which could contribute to C‐GNR‐induced hemolysis. This study demonstrates the hematological effects of GNRs, revealing their potential risk in biomedical applications.
Achieving High Open‐Circuit Voltages up to 1.57 V in Hole‐Transport‐Material‐Free MAPbBr3 Solar Cells with Carbon Electrodes
Authors: Liang Yongqi , Wang Yajuan , Mu Cheng , Wang Sen , Wang Xinnan , Xu Dongsheng , Sun Licheng
Published: September 2017

An open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 1.57 V under simulated AM1.5 sunlight in planar MAPbBr3 solar cells with carbon (graphite) electrodes is obtained. The hole‐transport‐material‐free MAPbBr3 solar cells with the normal architecture (FTO/TiO2/MAPbBr3/carbon) show little hysteresis during current–voltage sweep under simulated AM1.5 sunlight. A solar‐to‐electricity power conversion efficiency of 8.70% is achieved with the champion device. Accordingly, it is proposed that the carbon electrodes are effective to extract photogenerated holes in MAPbBr3 solar cells, and the industry‐applicable carbon electrodes will not limit the performance of bromide‐based perovskite solar cells. Based on the analysis of the band alignment, it is found that the voltage (energy) loss across the interface between MAPbBr3 and carbon is very small compared to the offset between the valence band maximum of MAPbBr3 and the work function of graphite. This finding implies either Fermi level pinning or highly doped region inside MAPbBr3 layer exists. The band‐edge electroluminescence spectra of MAPbBr3 from the solar cells further support no back‐transfer pathways of electrons across the MAPbBr3/TiO2 interface.
Using systematic review in occupational safety and health
Authors: Howard John , Piacentino John , MacMahon Kathleen , Schulte Paul
Published: September 2017

Evaluation of scientific evidence is critical in developing recommendations to reduce risk. Healthcare was the first scientific field to employ a systematic review approach for synthesizing research findings to support evidence‐based decision‐making and it is still the largest producer and consumer of systematic reviews. Systematic reviews in the field of occupational safety and health are being conducted, but more widespread use and adoption would strengthen assessments. In 2016, NIOSH asked RAND to develop a framework for applying the traditional systematic review elements to the field of occupational safety and health. This paper describes how essential systematic review elements can be adapted for use in occupational systematic reviews to enhance their scientific quality, objectivity, transparency, reliability, utility, and acceptability.
A randomized controlled trial of levodopa in patients with Angelman syndrome
Authors: Tan Wen‐Hann , Bird Lynne M. , Sadhwani Anjali , Barbieri‐Welge Rene L. , Skinner Steven A. , Horowitz Lucia T. , Bacino Carlos A. , Noll Lisa M. , Fu Cary , Hundley Rachel J. , Wink Logan K. , Erickson Craig A. , Barnes Gregory N. , Slavotinek Anne , Jeremy Rita , Rotenberg Alexander , Kothare Sanjeev V. , Olson Heather E. , Poduri Annapurna , Nespeca Mark P. , Chu Hillary C. , Willen Jennifer M. , Haas Kevin F. , Weeber Edwin J. , Rufo Paul A.
Published: September 2017

Treatment for Angelman syndrome (AS) is currently limited to symptomatic interventions. A mouse model of AS has reduced calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II activity due to excessive phosphorylation of specific threonine residues, leading to diminished long‐term potentiation. In a rat model of Parkinson disease, levodopa reduced phosphorylation of various proteins, including calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II. Further studies demonstrated that AS mice treated with levodopa performed better on rotarod testing than untreated AS mice. We conducted a multi‐center double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled 1‐year trial of levodopa / carbidopa with either 10 or 15 mg/kg/day of levodopa in children with AS. The outcome of this intervention was assessed using either the Bayley Scales of Infant Development or the Mullen Scales of Early Learning, as well as the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, and the Aberrant Behavior Checklist. Of the 78 participants enrolled, 67 participants received study medication (33 on levodopa, 34 on placebo), and 55 participants (29 on levodopa, 26 on placebo) completed the 1‐year study. There were no clinically or statistically significant changes in any of the outcome measures over a 1‐year period comparing the levodopa and placebo groups. The number of adverse events reported, including the more serious adverse events, was similar in both groups, but none were related to treatment with levodopa. Our data demonstrate that levodopa is well‐tolerated by children with AS. However, in the doses used in this study, it failed to improve their neurodevelopment or behavioral outcome.
Umgehung des Gas‐flüssig‐Stofftransports von Sauerstoff durch Kopplung der photosynthetischen Wasseroxidation an eine biokatalytische Oxyfunktionalisierung
Authors: Hoschek Anna , Bühler Bruno , Schmid Andreas
Published: September 2017

Der Gas‐flüssig‐Stofftransport gasförmiger Reaktanten limitiert die Raum‐Zeit‐Ausbeute O2‐abhängiger (bio)katalytischer Reaktionen in wässrigen Lösungen. In dieser Studie wurde die oxygene Photosynthese für den homogenen Sauerstoffeintrag durch In‐situ‐Erzeugung von O2 in der Flüssigphase genutzt, um diese Limitierung zu umgehen. Hierfür produziert das phototrophe Cyanobakterium Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 als Ganzzellbiokatalysator heterolog die Alkanmonooxygenase AlkBGT aus Pseudomonas putida GPo1. Die chemo‐ und regioselektive Hydroxylierung von Pelargonsäuremethylester zu ω‐Hydroxypelargonsäuremethylester kann so bei Belichtung, jedoch ohne externe Zugabe von molekularem Sauerstoff katalysiert werden. Der Sauerstoff stammt aus der photosynthetischen Wasseroxidation. Die Photosynthese liefert ebenfalls die nötigen Reduktionsäquivalente zur Regeneration von Fe2+ in AlkB für den Sauerstofftransfer zur terminalen Methylgruppe. Die In‐situ‐Kopplung der oxygenen Photosynthese an O2‐übertragende Enzyme ermöglicht nun das Design schneller Oxyfunktionalisierungsreaktionen.
An αv‐RGD Integrin Inhibitor Toolbox: Drug Discovery Insight, Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Hatley Richard J. D. , Macdonald Simon J. F. , Slack Robert J. , Le Joelle , Ludbrook Steven B. , Lukey Pauline T.
Published: September 2017

There is a requirement for efficacious and safe medicines to treat diseases with high unmet need. The resurgence in αv‐RGD integrin inhibitor drug discovery is poised to contribute to this requirement. However, drug discovery in the αv integrin space is notoriously difficult due to the receptors being structurally very similar as well as the polar zwitterionic nature of the pharmacophore. This Review aims to guide drug discovery research in this field through an αv inhibitor toolbox, consisting of small molecules and antibodies. Small‐molecule αv tool compounds with extended profiles in αvβ1, 3, 5, 6 and 8 cell adhesion assays, with key physicochemical properties, have been collated to assist in the selection of the right tool for the right experiment. This should also facilitate an understanding of partial selectivity profiles of compounds generated in different assays across research institutions. Prospects for further αv integrin research and the critical importance of target validation are discussed, where increased knowledge of the selectivity for individual RGD αv integrins is key. Insights into the design of small‐molecule RGD chemotypes for topical or oral administration are provided and clinical findings on advanced molecules are examined.
A novel and highly efficient polyaniline‐functionalized multiwall carbon nanotube‐supported cu(I) complex for Sonogashira coupling reactions of aryl halides with phenylacetylene
Authors: Hajipour Abdol R. , Jajarmi Saeideh
Published: September 2017

A polyaniline‐functionalized multiwall carbon nanotube‐supported Cu(I) complex was developed as an efficient catalyst for the Sonogashira reactions of aryl halides with phenylacetylene in the presence of potassium hydroxide in dimethylformamide at 135 °C under nitrogen atmosphere. The corresponding products were generated in good to excellent yields using this catalytic system. Moreover, the multiwall carbon nanotube‐supported Cu(I) catalyst was simply recycled and reused for six consecutive runs.
Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of 5‐(arylazo)salicylaldimines and their copper(II) complexes
Authors: Abbas Samir Y. , Basyouni Wahid M. , El‐Bayouki Khairy A.M.
Published: September 2017

A new series of twelve bidentate Schiff's base ligands (HL1–12) was synthesized via condensation of 5‐(arylazo)salicylaldehydes with aromatic amines. When the new salicylaldimine derivatives were reacted with copper(II) chloride, the neutral complexes Cu(L1–12)2 were obtained. The structure of the copper complexes was established from microanalyses, IR and UV spectra and thermal analyses. The results suggested that the ligands were coordinated to the metal ion in a bidentate manner with ON donor sites of the deprotonated phenolic‐OH and azomethine‐N. The composition of the complexes can be represented as CuL2. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity for the synthesized compounds was carried out to probe their activity. The compounds were found to have weak antimicrobial activity.
Phthalhydrazide nanoparticles as new highly reusable organic photocatalyst in the photodegradation of organic and inorganic contaminants
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Kakhki Roya , Tayebee Reza , Hedayat Sara
Published: September 2017

Phthalhydrazide nanoparticles are introduced as a new, efficient, stable and reusable organic photocatalyst for the photodegradation of a range of azo dyes, including methyl orange, methyl red, congo red and yellow titan, 4‐nitrophenol and permanganate as important organic and inorganic contaminants. Various experimental parameters including pH, photocatalyst dose, dye concentration and illumination time were investigated for methyl orange as a model substrate. The results revealed high degradation efficacy, up to 93.6%, for methyl orange in 20 min. Moreover, a preliminary kinetic study along with a proposed photodegradation mechanism is included in this study. Mechanistic investigations showed that phthalhydrazide behaved as a photoreduction catalyst. With the addition of Cl− ion, as a hole scavenger, photodegradation efficacy for methyl orange was improved. Results showed that phthalhydrazide nanoparticles behaved better than commercial bulk phthalhydrazide and both performed as successful photocatalysts for photoreduction of the mentioned organic and inorganic compounds.
Application of artificial neural network for comparison and modeling of the ultrasonic and stirrer assisted removal of anionic dye using activated carbon supported with nanostructure material
Authors: Ghaedi Abdol Mohammad , Karami Parisa , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Vafaei Azam , Alipanahpour Dil Ebrahim , Mehrabi Fatemeh
Published: September 2017

In this study, a green approach has been described for the synthesis of copper sulfide nanoparticles loaded on activated carbon (CuS‐NP‐AC) and usability of it for the removal of sunset yellow (SY) dye by ultrasound‐assisted and stirrer has been compared. In addition, the artificial neural network (ANN) model has been employed for a forecasting removal percentage of SY dye using the results obtained. This material was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The impact of variables, including initial dye concentration (mg/L), pH, adsorbent dosage (g), sonication time (min) and temperature (°C) on SY removal was studied. Fitting the experimental equilibrium data of different isotherm models such as Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin–Radushkevich models display the suitability and applicability of the Langmuir model. Analysis of experimental adsorption data of different kinetic models including pseudo‐first and second order, Elovich and intraparticle diffusion models indicate the applicability of the second‐order equation model. The adsorbent (0.005 g) is applicable for successful removal of SY dye (> 98%) in short time (9 min) under ultrasound condition. A three layer ANN models with 8 and 6 neurons at hidden layer was selected as optimal models using stirrer and ultrasonic, respectively. These models displayed a good agreement between forecasted data and experimental data with the determination coefficient (R2) of 0.9948 and 0.9907 and mean squared error (MSE) of 0.0001 and 0.0002 for training set using stirrer and ultrasonic, respectively.
Retracted: Catalytic activity of Fe(II) and Cu(II) PNP pincer complexes for Suzuki coupling reaction
Authors: Kumar Lolakshi Mahesh , Ansari Rasheeda M. , Bhat Badekai Ramachandra
Published: September 2017

Iron and copper PNP pincer complexes of the type [Fe(L)SO4] and [Cu(L)OCOCH3] are reported and represented as C‐1 and C‐2 catalyst. Both the complexes were synthesized using bis(diphenylphosphino)pyridine‐2,6‐diamine [L], and salts of ‘Fe’ and ‘Cu’ by direct coordination method. The as synthesized complexes were characterized using FTIR, UV–Vis, mass analysis and TGA. The effect of reaction time, catalyst load, solvent and base on the reaction between phenylboronic acid and para substituted bromobenzenes in the presence of the catalysts were investigated for evaluating the catalytic efficiency of the complexes. The results obtained highlight the enhanced C‐C coupling reactions with the use of 0.4 mol% of the catalyst C‐1 in 14 h and 0.6 mol% of C‐2 in 16 h respectively with Cs2CO3 base and ACN as solvent media. Of the two complexes reported, C‐1 with iron as catalytically active metal is more stable and active towards coupling which is reflected in its better coupling yields in lesser reaction time compared to copper bearing C‐2 complex.
Catalytic reactivity of new Ni(II), Cu(II) and Sn(II) complexes for decolorization of indigo carmine in aqueous solution, high efficiency of copper complex
Authors: Nassar Amr Mohammad
Published: September 2017

A new Ni(II), Cu(II) and Sn(II) Schiff base complexes were synthesized in this work. The characterization of the new complexes is carried out by elemental analysis, FT‐IR, UV–Visible, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy, conductance analysis, magnetic measurements and thermal gravimetric analysis. It was found that the ligand behaves as a dibasic bidentate which coordinated to the metal center through two deprotonated hydroxyl groups to form tetrahedral complex with Ni(II) and octahedral complex with Cu(II). The ligand acts as neutral bidentate through azomethine nitrogen and thiazol sulfur to form octahedral complex with Sn(II). The synthesized complexes are evaluated as catalysts for oxidative degradation of indigo carmine dye using H2O2 as oxidant and the efficiency of the catalysts is determined. The copper complex shows the best catalytic action with efficiency 92.17% after 25 min.
Polymer complexes. LXVIII. Spectroscopic studies of supramolecular copper(II) polymeric complexes of biologically active monomer derived from novel sulfa drug
Authors: El‐Sonbati A.Z. , Diab M.A. , Morgan Sh.M. , Balboula M.Z.
Published: September 2017

The novel ligand N‐[4‐(5‐methylisoxazol‐3‐ylsulfamoyl)phenyl]acrylamide (HL) was prepared via amidation of 4‐amino‐N‐(5‐methylisoxazol‐3‐yl)benzenesulfonamide with acryloyl chloride in benzene as solvent. Polymeric complexes with HL were prepared and characterized using elemental analysis, spectral studies (infrared, mass, UV–visible and electron paramagnetic resonance), powder X‐ray diffraction, thermal analysis, molar conductivity and magnetic susceptibility. Infrared spectral studies reveal that HL behaves as a neutral bidentate ligand. Powder X‐ray diffraction patterns of HL and polymer complexes show many diffraction peaks which indicate polycrystalline phases. Based on magnetic moment and solid reflectance measurements, the polymer complexes have square planar and octahedral geometries. Molecular docking was used to predict the binding between HL and the receptors of 3hb5‐oxidoreductase (breast cancer) and 2q7k‐hormone (prostate cancer).
The effect of synthesis procedure on the catalytic performance of isostructural ZIF‐8
Authors: Mousavi Bibimaryam , Chaemchuen Somboon , Ezugwu Chizoba I. , Yuan Ye , Verpoort Francis
Published: September 2017

We demonstrate the synthesis of isostructural zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF‐8) using four distinct synthetic methods. Subsequently, the variations in physicochemical properties were analyzed through the catalytic reaction of CO2 cycloaddition of epoxide. It was thus demonstrated that simply by changing the type of synthetic method for the preparation of ZIF‐8, the physicochemical properties were changed significantly which in turn influenced the catalytic activity of ZIF‐8. It was found that the synthetic method affected the crystal growth and consequently influenced the physicochemical properties which are crucial aspects in metal–organic framework applications. There is an almost exponential relationship between the reactivity of various ZIF‐8 samples in CO2 cycloaddition of epoxide and the surface area, CO2 adsorption and pore volume.
Application of chromium‐doped fullerene as a carrier for thymine and uracil nucleotides: Comprehensive density functional theory calculations
Authors: Rad Ali Shokuhi , Aghaei Sadegh Mehdi , Aali Elaheh , Peyravi Majid , Jahanshahi Mohsen
Published: September 2017

The interactions of the nucleobases thymine (C5H6N2O2) and uracil (C4H4N2O2) with Cr‐doped C20 fullerene (C19Cr) are investigated by performing density functional theory calculations. The adsorption of these nucleobases on C19Cr leads to two distinct geometries (P1 and P2) differing in the orientation of the nucleobases. The interaction of the nucleobases with the C19Cr nanocluster is highly exothermic, revealing that they are chemically adsorbed on C19Cr. The results show that the binding energy of the thymine–C19Cr complex is slightly higher than that of the uracil–C19Cr complex. In addition, the P2 geometry is more stable compared to P1 due to the higher binding energy in the former configuration. However, based on the results of natural bond orbital and frontier molecular orbitals analyses, the C19Cr nanocage has higher reactivity with the nucleobases in P1 geometry in comparison with P2 due to the larger charge transfer and orbital hybridization in the former geometry. Moreover, the band gap of the C19Cr nanocage decreases after interaction with the nucleobases, and interestingly the impact is more pronounced for P1 geometry, confirming the higher sensitivity of C19Cr to the nucleobases in P1 geometry. Our findings reveal the promising potential of C19Cr as an organometallic carrier for nucleobases thymine and uracil.
Curing of polyfurfuryl alcohol resin catalyzed by a homologous series of dicarboxylic acid catalysts. II. Swelling behavior and thermal properties
Authors: Marefat Seyedlar Roghayyeh , Imani Mohammad , Mirabedini S. Mojtaba
Published: September 2017

Polyfurfuryl alcohol (PFA), as a bio‐based resin made from lignocellulosic materials, was crosslinked using a homologous series of dicarboxylic acid catalysts consisting of oxalic, succinic, and adipic acids, which are different in their dissociation constants. Swelling behavior, thermal stability, and non‐oxidative char residue of the resulting networks were characterized as a function of the acids strength and their concentration. Swelling of the networks were investigated at room temperature in eight solvents differing in molecular size and solubility parameter. Using acetonitrile as a solvent, the swelling mechanism was explored by applying kinetic models to the swelling data. Dynamic swelling studies during 16–30 days supported non‐Fickian and anomalous diffusion mechanism in highly crosslinked samples supporting PFA chain rigidity and high crosslinking density of the networks. Polymer–solvent interaction parameter, molecular weight between crosslinks and crosslinking densities were also determined. According to the results, the extent of PFA crosslinking and non‐Fickian behavior of the swelling solvent diffusion through the networks are strongly dependent on the concentration and dissociation characteristics of the catalysts used. Thermal stability studies showed no significant differences between the compositions, up to 900 °C. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45770.
Archaeological prospection of a specialized cooking‐pit site at Lunde in Vestfold, Norway
Authors: Gustavsen Lars , Cannell Rebecca J.S. , Nau Erich , Tonning Christer , Trinks Immo , Kristiansen Monica , Gabler Manuel , Paasche Knut , Gansum Terje , Hinterleitner Alois , Poscetti Valeria , Neubauer Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

In September 2010, an exceptionally large cooking‐pit site was discovered by means of geophysical prospection at Lunde in Vestfold County, Norway. The site contains in excess of 1000 cooking‐pits and is, to date, one of the largest of its kind discovered in Scandinavia. Features known as cooking‐pits are ubiquitous on Northern European archaeological sites. Despite research spanning decades, however, the true function and role of this rather non‐descript feature type is still debated. Using the results from geophysical prospection, soil analysis, ground‐truthing and excavation, this article aims to better understand this phenomenon by evaluating the physical properties revealed from the data, and setting this exceptional site in a wider cultural‐historical context. The wider, landscape context is accessible from the large‐scale, high‐resolution, landscape archaeological prospection case‐study approach conducted by Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Archaeological Prospection and Virtual Archaeology (LBI ArchPro). The results suggest that the multi‐method approach is essential in such cases, as it is able to challenge the assumptions of the blanket interpretations often applied, and put the site in a cultural and environmental context.
Triaging content severity in online mental health forums
Authors: Cohan Arman , Young Sydney , Yates Andrew , Goharian Nazli
Published: September 2017

In recent years, social media has become a significant resource for improving healthcare and mental health. Mental health forums are online communities where people express their issues, and seek help from moderators and other users. In such forums, there are often posts with severe content indicating that the user is in acute distress and there is a risk of attempted self‐harm. Moderators need to respond to these severe posts in a timely manner to prevent potential self‐harm. However, the large volume of daily posted content makes it difficult for the moderators to locate and respond to these critical posts. We propose an approach for triaging user content into four severity categories that are defined based on an indication of self‐harm ideation. Our models are based on a feature‐rich classification framework, which includes lexical, psycholinguistic, contextual, and topic modeling features. Our approaches improve over the state of the art in triaging the content severity in mental health forums by large margins (up to 17% improvement over the F‐1 scores). Furthermore, using our proposed model, we analyze the mental state of users and we show that overall, long‐term users of the forum demonstrate decreased severity of risk over time. Our analysis on the interaction of the moderators with the users further indicates that without an automatic way to identify critical content, it is indeed challenging for the moderators to provide timely response to the users in need.
Identification Recurrent Type 2 Fuzzy Wavelet Neural Network and L2‐Gain Adaptive Variable Sliding Mode Robust Control of Electro‐Hydraulic Servo System (EHSS)
Authors: Chen Xiangjian , Li Di , Yang Xibei , Yu Yuecheng
Published: September 2017

An electro‐hydraulic servo system (EHSS) is a kind of system with the characteristics of time‐variant, serious nonlinearity, parameter and structural uncertainty, and uncertain load disturbance in most cases. These characteristics make it very difficult to realize highly accurate control by conventional methods. In order to solve the above problems, this paper introduces a recurrent type 2 fuzzy wavelet neural network to approximate the unknown nonlinear functions of the dynamic systems through tuning by the desired adaptive law. Based on the identification by recurrent type 2 fuzzy wavelet neural network, a L2 gain design method, combining gain adaptive variable sliding mode control with H infinity control, is proposed for load disturbance, thereby accommodating uncertainties that are the main factors affecting system stability and accuracy in EHSS. In this algorithm, a recurrent type 2 fuzzy wavelet neural network is employed to evaluate the unknown dynamic characteristics of the system and gain adaptive variable sliding mode control to compensate for evaluating errors, and H infinity control to suppress the effect on system by load disturbance. The experiment results show that the proposed system L2 gain design method can make the system exhibit strong robustness to parameter variation and load disturbance.
Species‐related exposure of phase II metabolite gemfibrozil 1‐O‐β‐glucuronide between human and mice: A net induction of mouse P450 activity was revealed
Authors: Luo Min , Dai Manyun , Lin Hante , Xie Minzhu , Lin Jiao , Liu Aiming , Yang Julin
Published: September 2017

Gemfibrozil is a fibrate drug used widely for dyslipidemia associated with atherosclerosis. Clinically, both gemfibrozil and its phase II metabolite gemfibrozil 1‐O‐β‐glucuronide (gem‐glu) are involved in drug–drug interaction (DDI). But the DDI risk caused by gem‐glu between human and mice has not been compared. In this study, six volunteers were recruited and took a therapeutic dose of gemfibrozil for 3 days for examination of the gemfibrozil and gem‐glu level in human. Male mice were fed a gemfibrozil diet (0.75%) for 7 days, following which a cocktail‐based inhibitory DDI experiment was performed. Plasma samples and liver tissues from mice were collected for determination of gemfibrozil, gem‐glu concentration and cytochrome p450 enzyme (P450) induction analysis. In human, the molar ratio of gem‐glu/gemfibrozil was 15% and 10% at the trough concentration and the concentration at 1.5 h after the 6th dose. In contrast, this molar ratio at steady state in mice was 91%, demonstrating a 6‐ to 9‐fold difference compared with that in human. Interestingly, a net induction of P450 activity and in vivo inductive DDI potential in mice was revealed. The P450 activity was not inhibited although the gem‐glu concentration was high. These data suggested species difference of relative gem‐glu exposure between human and mice, as well as a net inductive DDI potential of gemfibrozil in mouse model.
Optimized Selection Marker and CHO Host Cell Combinations for Generating High Monoclonal Antibody Producing Cell Lines
Authors: Yeo Jessna H. M. , Ho Steven C. L. , Mariati Mariati , Koh Esther , Tay Shi Jie , Woen Susanto , Zhang Peiqing , Yang Yuansheng
Published: September 2017

There are several selection markers which are suitable for generating stably transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines. Due to their different modes of action, each selection marker has its own optimal selection stringency in different host cells for obtaining high productivity. Using an internal ribosome entry site (IRES)‐mediated tricistronic vector and a set of IRES variants with different strengths, the expression of five antibiotics resistance genes (ARGs) in CHO‐K1 cells and dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) in CHO DG44 cells is optimized to enhance the stringency of selection for high producing cells. There is an obvious optimal expression level for every selection marker, below or above which, the productivity is significantly lower. The enhanced productivity in ARG generated CHO K1 cells is due to selective integration of active site while the enhanced productivity in the amplified CHO DG44 cells results from increased gene copies. The high producing CHO K1 pools and clones generated using ARG exhibit better production stability than the amplified high producing CHO DG44 pools and clones. Loss of expression for the CHO K1 cell lines is due to loss of gene copies while for CHO DG44 is due to transcriptional silencing. mAb glycan profile also differed significantly between CHO K1 and CHO DG44 cell lines. These results would be helpful when developing optimized vectors for generating high mAb producing CHO cell lines.
Sizing of patent ductus arteriosus in adults for transcatheter closure using the balloon pull‐through technique
Authors: Shafi Nabil A. , Singh Gagan D. , Smith Thomas W. , Rogers Jason H.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To describe a novel balloon sizing technique used during adult transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure. In addition, to determine the clinical and procedural outcomes in six patients who underwent PDA balloon sizing with subsequent deployment of a PDA occluder device.

Background

Transcatheter PDA closure in adults has excellent safety and procedural outcomes. However, PDA sizing in adults can be challenging due to variable defect size, high flow state, or anatomical complexity. We describe a series of six cases where the balloon‐ pull through technique was successfully performed for PDA sizing prior to transcatheter closure.

Methods

Consecutive adult patients undergoing adult PDA closure at our institution were studied retrospectively. A partially inflated sizing balloon was pulled through the defect from the aorta into the pulmonary artery and the balloon waist diameter was measured. Procedural success and clinical outcomes were obtained.

Results

Six adult patients underwent successful balloon pull‐through technique for PDA sizing during transcatheter PDA closure, since conventional angiography often gave suboptimal opacification of the defect. All PDAs were treated with closure devices based on balloon PDA sizing with complete closure and no complications. In three patients that underwent preprocedure computed tomography, the balloon size matched the CT derived measurements.

Conclusion

The balloon pull‐through technique for PDA sizing is a safe and accurate sizing modality in adults undergoing transcatheter PDA closure.
Propensity score matched all comers population treated with ultra‐thin strut bare metal and sirolimus‐probucol coated drug‐eluting stents of identical stent architecture
Authors: Krackhardt Florian , Rosli Mohd Ali , Leschke Matthias , Schneider André , Sperling Christian , Heang Tay Mok , Pons Maxime , Sousa Pedro Jerónimo , Kherad Behrouz , Waliszewski Matthias
Published: September 2017

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of a polymer‐free sirolimus coated, ultrathin strut drug eluting stent (PF‐SES) to its uncoated bare‐metal stent (BMS) platform of identical stent architecture.

Background

Recently published randomized trials comparing BMS to DES with a focus on shortened dual‐antiplatelet therapy reported incidences of stent thrombosis (ST) and bleeding complications (LEADERS FREE) in favor of drug eluting stents (DES).

Methods

Data of previously published large‐sale, international, single‐armed, multicenter, observational studies of ultra‐thin PF‐SES, and BMS were propensity score (PS) matched for selected lesion morphological and cardiovascular risk factors to compare target lesion revascularization (TLR), myocardial infarction, cardiac death, major adverse cardiac events (MACE), bleeding complications and ST rates. Primary endpoint in both studies was TLR at 9 months.

Results

At 9 months the rates of TLR was significantly lower in the PF‐SES group as compared with patients treated with the BMS analogue of identical stent design (1.4% vs. 4.6%, P = 0.005). Likewise the 9‐month MACE rates were lower in the PF‐SES group (3.2% vs. 8.7%, P = 0.001) whereas there were no differences in the accumulated ST rates (0.5% vs. 1.5%, P = 0.109). Overall accumulated bleeding incidences (BARC 1–5) were not significantly different between PF‐SES and BMS patients (1.8% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.388).

Conclusions

PF‐SES are superior over analogue BMS of identical stent architecture in daily clinical routine with lower rates of TLR and MACE in a PS‐matched, unselected patient population without differences in accumulated ST rates and bleeding frequencies given the currently favored postprocedural comedication (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02629575).
Intracoronary snaring of the retrograde guidewire: How to overcome extreme takeoff angles in chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Azzalini Lorenzo , Candilio Luciano , Carlino Mauro , Colombo Antonio
Published: September 2017

Extreme angulation of coronary artery takeoff represents a challenge for wiring and device advancement in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This anatomic feature is particularly adverse in cases of chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the ostial‐proximal segment of the target vessel. In this setting, the retrograde approach can help getting access to the occlusion. However, difficulties might arise at the critical step of wire externalization, due to the need to overcome the extreme ostial angle.

Here, we describe a case of successful CTO PCI of the proximal circumflex artery, which presented an extreme angle at its takeoff. Due to inability to perform antegrade wiring of the occlusion, the retrograde approach was undertaken via epicardial collaterals from the right coronary artery. Since conventional attempts at re‐entering the antegrade guiding catheter failed due to the aforementioned extreme angle, the retrograde wire was snared in the mid left anterior descending artery, and externalization was performed. This case demonstrates the usefulness of coronary snares in the CTO operator's toolkit and shows how such devices can be used to safely and successfully complete challenging retrograde procedures.
Left ventricular perforation after Impella® placement in a patient with cardiogenic shock
Authors: Peritz David C. , Linstroth Lee , Selzman Craig H. , Gilbert Edward M.
Published: September 2017

Mechanical cardiovascular support devices are now widely used both in the setting of cardiogenic shock as well as during high risk cardiac catheterization procedures. We report a case of a young female patient who presented with presumed myocarditis and rapidly deteriorating decompensated heart failure requiring the implantation of an Impella Circulatory Support System. Upon transfer to our facility it was discovered that during transport, the Impella device had migrated through the left ventricle. She was emergently taken to the operating room where the Impella was surgically removed and biventricular support devices were placed. The patient eventually expired after weeks of treatment in the intensive care unit. We believe this is the first recorded case of an Impella device perforating the left ventricle. Particularly in cases of newly discovered pericardial effusion, change in waveform on the Impella controller placement signal or rapid decompensation, physicians should consider this rare but potentially catastrophic complication associated with mechanical left ventricular support devices.
Medullary nephrocalcinosis in idiopathic hypercalciuria
Authors: Koratala Abhilash , Bhatti Vikrampal
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

Idiopathic hypercalciuria is a metabolic abnormality characterized by excessive calcium excretion in the urine with normal serum calcium levels and is a common risk factor for formation of kidney stones and/or nephrocalcinosis. These patients benefit from a normal‐calcium, reduced‐animal protein, and low‐salt diet, along with a thiazide diuretic.
Room Temperature Decarboxylative and Oxidative [2+2+2] Annulation of Benzoic Acids with Alkynes Catalyzed by an Electron‐Deficient Rhodium(III) Complex
Authors: Honjo Yusaku , Shibata Yu , Kudo Eiji , Namba Tomoya , Masutomi Koji , Tanaka Ken
Published: September 2017

It has been established that an electron‐deficient (η5‐cyclopentadienyl)rhodium(III) [CpERhIII] complex is capable of catalyzing the decarboxylative and oxidative [2+2+2] annulation of benzoic acids with alkynes to produce substituted naphthalenes at room temperature. The appropriate choice of the additive and the solvent is crucial for this transformation. This catalyst system allowed use of oxygen as a terminal oxidant and broadened the substrate scope including both aromatic and aliphatic alkynes. In this catalysis, the electron deficient nature of the CpERhIII catalyst would cause the strong rhodium‐π interaction, which accelerates the decarboxylation as well as the C−H bond cleavage.
Cannabis use among patients at a comprehensive cancer center in a state with legalized medicinal and recreational use
Authors: Pergam Steven A. , Woodfield Maresa C. , Lee Christine M. , Cheng Guang‐Shing , Baker Kelsey K. , Marquis Sara R. , Fann Jesse R.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Cannabis is purported to alleviate symptoms related to cancer treatment, although the patterns of use among cancer patients are not well known. This study was designed to determine the prevalence and methods of use among cancer patients, the perceived benefits, and the sources of information in a state with legalized cannabis.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional, anonymous survey of adult cancer patients was performed at a National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center in Washington State. Random urine samples for tetrahydrocannabinol provided survey validation.

RESULTS

Nine hundred twenty‐six of 2737 eligible patients (34%) completed the survey, and the median age was 58 years (interquartile range [IQR], 46‐66 years). Most had a strong interest in learning about cannabis during treatment (6 on a 1‐10 scale; IQR, 3‐10) and wanted information from cancer providers (677 of 911 [74%]). Previous use was common (607 of 926 [66%]); 24% (222 of 926) used cannabis in the last year, and 21% (192 of 926) used cannabis in the last month. Random urine samples found similar percentages of users who reported weekly use (27 of 193 [14%] vs 164 of 926 [18%]). Active users inhaled (153 of 220 [70%]) or consumed edibles (154 of 220 [70%]); 89 (40%) used both modalities. Cannabis was used primarily for physical (165 of 219 [75%]) and neuropsychiatric symptoms (139 of 219 [63%]). Legalization significantly increased the likelihood of use in more than half of the respondents.

CONCLUSIONS

This study of cancer patients in a state with legalized cannabis found high rates of active use across broad subgroups, and legalization was reported to be important in patients' decision to use. Cancer patients desire but are not receiving information about cannabis use during their treatment from oncology providers. Cancer 2017;123:4488‐97. © 2017 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution‐NonCommercial‐NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non‐commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.
A Bisamide Ruthenium Polypyridyl Complex as a Robust and Efficient Photosensitizer for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Schott Olivier , Pal Amlan K. , Chartrand Daniel , Hanan Garry S.
Published: September 2017

A photosensitizer based on a ruthenium complex of a bisamide‐polypyridyl ligand gives rise to a large improvement in photocatalytic stability, rate of activity, and efficiency in photocatalytic H2 production compared to [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy=2,2′‐bpyridine). The bisamide ruthenium polypyridyl complex combined with a cobaltoxime‐based photocatalyst was found to be highly efficient under blue‐light (turnover number (TON)=7800) and green‐light irradiation (TON=7200) whereas [Ru(bpy)3]2+ was significantly less effective with a TON of 2600 and 1100, respectively. The greatest improvement was under red‐light‐emitting diodes, with bisamide ruthenium polypyridyl complex and cobaltoxime exhibiting a TON of 4200 compared to [Ru(bpy)3]2+ and cobaltoxime at a TON of only 71.
Early adolescent stress‐induced changes in prefrontal cortex miRNA‐135a and hippocampal miRNA‐16 in male rats
Authors: Liu Yuan , Liu Dexiang , Xu Jingjing , Jiang Hong , Pan Fang
Published: September 2017

Early‐life stress increases susceptibility to post‐traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), in which the dysfunction of 5‐hydroxytryptamine plays an important role. miRNA‐135a in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and miRNA‐16 in the hippocampus (HIP) are closely related to the 5‐HT neurotransmitter system. Here, we investigated behavior, miRNA‐135a in the PFC, miRNA‐16 in the HIP, and 5‐HT1AR expression in both brain regions in adolescent and adult rats that were exposed to inescapable stress during their adolescence. Paroxetine hydrochloride and corticotropin‐releasing factor antagonist (CP‐154,526) were used as intervening measures. Our study demonstrated that early adolescent stress induced anxiety‐like behaviors and spatial memory damage, a reduction in miRNA‐135a expression was associated with increased 5‐HT1AR expression in PFC, and increased miRNA‐16 expression in the HIP of stressed rats. Drug treatments alleviated behaviors and reversed the miRNA‐135a, miRNA‐16, and 5‐HT1AR expression in stressed rats.