bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flood flow attenuation diminishes cottonwood colonization sites: an experimental test along the Boise River, USA
Authors: Tiedemann Robert B. , Rood Stewart B.
Published: February 2015

The Boise River in southwest Idaho, USA, flows from forested mountain headwaters to the sagebrush steppe where the river was first regulated in 1909 for irrigated agriculture. Large upstream dams constructed in 1915, 1950, and 1955 are now operated to manage water for both irrigation and the attenuation of flood flows. This, in combination with bank armoring and channelization, has produced a narrowed river channel with simplified morphology. After damming, the native black cottonwood forest, Populus trichocarpa, expanded onto positions previously within the active channel. Since then, sexual reproduction of these cottonwoods appears to have become limited, apparently because of the lack of colonization sites devoid of competing vegetation. We investigated this hypothesis by constructing a channel that simulated recruitment sites previously formed by flood flow events. We observed extensive black cottonwood seedling recruitment along this channel in contrast to nearby reference sites where there were no seedlings, only saplings that originated as clonal root suckers. We conclude that the attenuation of flood flows has removed the geomorphic disturbance that previously created sites for colonization. As a consequence, the forest currently propagates primarily by clonal suckering that fails to introduce genetic diversity essential for adapting to change in the environment. To compensate for this loss, we recommend selective clearing and regrading of the floodplain according to an engineered design as one method to create cottonwood colonization sites. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
REI: riparian ecosystem index to assess the impact of hydrologic regime changes on riparian ecosystems
Authors: Benjankar Rohan , Yager Elowyn , Tonina Daniele , Merz Norm
Published: February 2015

We developed a geographic information systems (GIS)‐based multi‐metric assessment tool using model‐simulated long‐term vegetation data to assess changes in riparian ecosystems due to altered hydrologic regimes. This allowed us to estimate spatial changes in a riparian system over several decades at annual resolution, to study system trends through time, and the effect of multiple and time‐distributed human activities. We applied the tool to assess human and hydrologic impacts, for two scenarios, pre‐dam versus post‐dam periods and pre‐levee versus post‐levee periods on the Kootenai River. The pre‐dam versus post‐dam scenario considers two distinct hydrologic regimes as a result of dam operation, whereas the pre‐levee versus post‐levee scenario has one single natural hydrologic regime. We compared riparian ecosystem, community composition and native woody riparian vegetation index scores within the two scenarios. Our results showed that all three time‐averaged index scores (riparian ecosystem, community composition and native woody vegetation) were statistically higher for the pre‐dam than the post‐dam period. In contrast, differences in index scores were small and were not statistically significant between pre‐levee and post‐levee periods. Thus, our GIS‐based assessment tool can detect the impact of human‐induced changes in the natural hydrologic regime on riparian ecosystems both temporally and spatially. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose on renal function: an analysis of theFAIR‐HFstudy
Authors: Ponikowski Piotr , Filippatos Gerasimos , Colet Josep Comin , Willenheimer Ronnie , Dickstein Kenneth , Lüscher Thomas , Gaudesius Giedrius , von Eisenhart Rothe Barbara , Mori Claudio , Greenlaw Nicola , Ford Ian , Macdougall Iain , Anker Stefan D. ,   for the FAIR‐HF Trial Investigators
Published: February 2015

Aims

Anaemia and iron deficiency are constituents of the cardio‐renal syndrome in chronic heart failure (CHF). We investigated the effects of i.v. iron in iron‐deficientCHFpatients on renal function, and the efficacy and safety of this therapy in patients with renal dysfunction.

Methods and results

TheFAIR‐HFtrial randomized 459CHFpatients with iron deficiency (ferritin <100 µg/L, or between 100 and 299 µg/L if transferrin saturation was <20%): 304 to i.v. ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and 155 to placebo, and followed‐up for 24 weeks. Renal function was assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 12, and 24, using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR,mL/min/1.73 m2), calculated from the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD–EPI) formula. At baseline, renal function was similar between groups (62.4 ± 20.6 vs. 62.9 ± 23.4mL/min/1.73 m2,FCMvs. placebo). Compared with placebo, treatment withFCMwas associated with an increase ineGFR[treatment effect: week 4, 2.11 ± 1.21 (P= 0.082); week 12, 2.41 ± 1.33 (P= 0.070); and week 24, 2.98 ± 1.44mL/min/1.73 m2(P= 0.039)]. This effect was seen in all pre‐specified subgroups (P> 0.20 for interactions). No interaction between the favourable effects ofFCMand baseline renal function was seen for the primary endpoints [improvement in Patient Global Assessment (P= 0.43) andNYHAclass (P= 0.37) at 24 weeks]. Safety and adverse event profiles were similar in patients with baselineeGFR<60 and ≥60mL/min/1.73 m2.

Conclusions

Treatment of iron deficiency inCHFpatients with i.v.FCMwas associated with an improvement in renal function.FCMtherapy was effective and safe inCHFpatients with renal dysfunction.
Suppression of neutrophil superoxide generation by BNP is attenuated in acute heart failure: a case for ‘BNP resistance’
Authors: Liu Saifei , Ngo Doan T.M. , Chong Cher‐Rin , Amarasekera Anjalee T. , Procter Nathan E.K. , Licari Giovanni , Dautov Rustem F. , Stewart Simon , Chirkov Yuliy Y. , Horowitz John D.
Published: February 2015

Aims

The release of the B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is increased in heart failure (HF), a condition associated with oxidative stress. BNP is known to exert anti‐inflammatory effects including suppression of neutrophil superoxide (O2−) release. However, BNP‐based restoration of homeostasis in HF is inadequate, and the equivocal clinical benefit of a recombinant BNP, nesiritide, raises the possibility of attenuated response to BNP. We therefore tested the hypothesis that BNP‐induced suppression of neutrophil O2− generation is impaired in patients with acute HF.

Methods and results

We have recently characterized suppression of neutrophil O2− generation (PMA‐ or fMLP‐stimulated neutrophil burst) by BNP as a measure of its physiological activity. In the present study, BNP response was compared in neutrophils of healthy subjects (n = 29) and HF patients (n = 45). Effects of BNP on fMLP‐induced phosphorylation of the NAD(P)H oxidase subunit p47phox were also evaluated. In acute HF patients, the suppressing effect of BNP (1 µmol/L) on O2− generation was attenuated relative to that in healthy subjects (P < 0.05 for both PMA and fMLP). Analogously, BNP inhibited p47phox phosphorylation in healthy subjects but not in HF patients (P < 0.05). However, O2−‐suppressing effects of the cell‐permeable cGMP analogue (8‐pCPT‐cGMP) were preserved in acute HF. Conventional HF treatment for 5 weeks partially restored neutrophil BNP responsiveness (n = 25, P < 0.05), despite no significant decrease in plasma NT‐proBNP levels.

Conclusions

BNP inhibits neutrophil O2− generation by suppressing NAD(P)H oxidase assembly. This effect is impaired in acute HF patients, with partial recovery during treatment.
The liver X receptor agonist AZ876 protects against pathological cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis without lipogenic side effects
Authors: Cannon Megan V. , Yu Hongjuan , Candido Wellington M. , Dokter Martin M. , Lindstedt Eva‐Lotte , Silljé Herman H.W. , van Gilst Wiek H. , de Boer Rudolf A.
Published: February 2015

Aims

Liver X receptors (LXRs) transcriptionally regulate inflammation, metabolism, and immunity. Synthetic LXR agonists have been evaluated for their efficacy in the cardiovascular system; however, they elicit prolipogenic side effects which substantially limit their therapeutic use. AZ876 is a novel high‐affinity LXR agonist. Herein, we aimed to determine the cardioprotective potential of LXR activation with AZ876.

Methods and results

Cardiac hypertrophy was induced in C57Bl6/J mice via transverse aortic constriction (TAC) for 6 weeks. During this period, mice received chow supplemented or not with AZ876 (20 µmol/kg/day). In murine hearts, LXRα protein expression was up‐regulated ∼7‐fold in response to TAC. LXR activation with AZ876 attenuated this increase, and significantly reduced TAC‐induced increases in heart weight, myocardial fibrosis, and cardiac dysfunction without affecting blood pressure. At the molecular level, AZ876 suppressed up‐regulation of hypertrophy‐ and fibrosis‐related genes, and further inhibited prohypertrophic and profibrotic transforming growth factor β (TGFβ)–Smad2/3 signalling. In isolated cardiac myocytes and fibroblasts, immunocytochemistry confirmed nuclear expression of LXRα in both these cell types. In cardiomyocytes, phenylephrine‐stimulated cellular hypertrophy was significantly decreased in AZ876‐treated cells. In cardiac fibroblasts, AZ876 prevented TGFβ‐ and angiotensin II‐induced fibroblast collagen synthesis, and inhibited up‐regulation of the myofibroblastic marker, α‐smooth muscle actin. Plasma triglycerides and liver weight were unaltered following AZ876 treatment.

Conclusion

AZ876 activation of LXR protects from adverse cardiac remodelling in pathological pressure overload, independently of blood pressure. LXR may thus represent a putative molecular target for antihypertrophic and antifibrotic therapies in heart failure prevention.
Preparation of Porous Silicon by Sodiothermic Reduction of Zeolite and Photoactivation for Benzene Oxidation
Authors: Wang Jing‐Feng , Chen Jie‐Sheng , Zhou Zhong‐Fu
Published: February 2015

Porous silicon with its high specific surface, prepared by a sodiothermic reduction method using zeolite ZSM‐5 as the silicon precursor, has been used as an efficient photoactivator for direct oxidation of benzene to yield phenol in H2O2 solution under visible light irradiation. The surface oxidation of the porous silicon together with electron transition under the visible light irradiation acts on the benzene molecules, resulting in the generation of phenol molecules. By acid treatment the photoactivity of the used porous silicon is regained.
A Trinuclear AuI Complex with Different R3P–Au Centers: Synthesis, Characterization, and Synergetic Catalysis for Hydration of Phenylacetylene
Authors: Lai Shi‐Jun , Yang Da , Li Yong‐Qi , Zhao Xiao‐Li , Lu Yong , Liu Ye
Published: February 2015

A trinuclear AuI complex (3A) was synthesized and fully characterized relative to mononuclear (1A) and dinuclear (2A) complexes. The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses show that the AuI‐centered vectors in each of the AuI complexes (1A–3A) are all in a slightly distorted linear configuration, in which the AuI center is diagonally coordinated by one Cl– and one phosphine ligand. In 3A each P–Au–Cl vector is radially attached to the core of 1‐(thiazol‐2′‐yl)imidazolyl, which does not allow the short contact between the Au atoms to develop an aurophilic AuI–AuI interaction. Every P–Au–Cl moiety in 3A is different to each other in terms of Au–P and Au–Cl bond lengths, P–Au–Cl bond angles, and P–Au–Cl configurable orientation owing to the different coordinating ability of the involved phosphines. When 1A–3A were employed as the precatalysts for the hydration of phenylacetylene in aqueous methanol media without the involvement of any auxiliary additive, and at the same benchmark Au concentration, the reaction over 3A proceeded selectively according to Markovnikov's rule with the highest yield of acetophenone relative to those over 2A and 1A. This indicates that the catalytic performance of 3A is the outcome of the synergetic effect of the three different R3P–Au centers, in which each R3P–Au site plays an individual role in activating the substrate molecule.
Formation of Cadmium Sulfide and Zinc Sulfide Mixture in the Interlayer Space of Montmorillonite
Authors: Kabilaphat Jirabhorn , Khaorapapong Nithima , Ontam Areeporn , Ogawa Makoto
Published: February 2015

Cadmium sulfide and zinc sulfide (CdS and ZnS) were incorporated in sodium and cetyltrimethylammonium montmorillonites by the precipitation of sulfides from soluble metal sources in the presence of montmorillonites. The resulting hybrids were characterized by XRD, themogravimetric/differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA), TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and UV/Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The absorption onsets owing to CdS and ZnS in cetyltrimethylammonium‐montmorillonite appeared in a shorter wavelength region (311–520 nm) relative to that (309–484 nm) of the two semiconductors in sodium montmorillonite, thus reflecting the difference in the particle sizes of CdS and ZnS in the hybrids. The appearance of the broad emission bands combined with the bands centered at 469, 451, 440, and 431 nm owing to CdS and ZnS were attributed to the existence of both CdS and ZnS in the products. The difference in the emission intensity of the hybrids is discussed in terms of the role of the cetyltrimethylammonium cation. The unique optical properties of the two products were thought to occur through the interactions of sulfides with their environment (montmorillonite and cetyltrimethylammonium cation).
Trinuclear Half‐Sandwich RuII, RhIII and IrIII Polyester Organometallic Complexes: Synthesis and in vitro Evaluation as Antitumor Agents
Authors: Burgoyne Andrew R. , Makhubela Banothile C. E. , Meyer Mervin , Smith Gregory S.
Published: February 2015

Schiff base ligands obtained from the condensation of 4‐aminophenylmethanol and either 2‐pyridinecarboxaldehyde or salicylaldehyde were used to synthesise bidentate trimeric ester ligands. The trimeric ester ligands were used to prepare a new series of trinuclear polyester organometallic complexes by using the dimeric precursors, [Ru(η6‐p‐iPrC6H4Me)Cl2]2, [Rh(C5Me5)Cl2]2 or [Ir(C5Me5)Cl2]2. The Schiff base ligands act as bidentate donors to each metal. All compounds were characterised by NMR and IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and EI/ESI mass spectrometry. Model mononuclear analogues were prepared, and the molecular structures of selected compounds were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The mono‐ and trimeric ligands and the metal complexes were evaluated for inhibitory effects against the human ovarian cancer cell lines, A2780 (cisplatin‐sensitive) and A2780cisR (cisplatin‐resistant), and the model human skin fibroblast cell line, KMST‐6.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Few‐Layered TaTe2 and Its Application as Supercapacitor
Authors: Chakravarty Disha , Kumar Praveen , Ugale Vaishali S. , Late Dattatray J.
Published: February 2015

We report a simple and rapid microwave‐assisted synthesis of tantalum telluride (TaTe2) nanosheets. The ratio of tantalum pentachloride (TaCl5) and elemental tellurium (Te) powder were adjusted in the presence of NaBH4 in such a way as to obtain the TaTe2 nanosheet. The samples were characterized by various techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV/Vis spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and XRD. Our SEM, TEM, and AFM results show the formation of sheet‐like morphology, while the XRD data confirms the high crystalline quality and stable phase of the TaTe2 formed. The supercapacitor cells were fabricated by using TaTe2 nanosheets as anode material, platinum metal wire as a counterelectrode, and Ag/AgCl as reference electrode. The calculated coulombic efficiency is more than 95 %, while the cycle‐to‐cycle decrease in capacity is less than 5 %. The maximum discharge or charging capacity is below 2.4 W h/kg, which is an ideal characteristic for achieving supercapacitor behavior.
Trans fatty acid retention and conversion rates of fatty acids in tissues depend on dietary fat in mice
Authors: Saín Juliana , González Marcela Aída , Lavandera Jimena Verónica , Scalerandi María Victoria , Bernal Claudio Adrián
Published: February 2015

Given that the effects of trans fatty acids (TFA) may be associated with the type of TFA isomer and the proportion of n‐3/n‐6/n‐9 fatty acids (FA), this work aimed to investigate the influence of different oils on the following parameters: content, incorporation, and retention of TFA; conversion of vaccenic acid (VA) to rumenic acid (RA) in different tissues; and hepatic output of TFA by VLDL. Another objective was to assess relative conversion rates of key FA and the potential alteration of FA composition induced by TFA in tissues. Male CF1 mice were fed (30‐days) diets containing 7% olive, corn or rapeseed oils either supplemented with 0.75% of TFA or without added TFA. FA composition of liver, epididymal adipose tissue, gastrocnemius muscle, brain, and serum was assessed. With the exception of the brain, TFAs were incorporated into the analyzed tissues and serum. TFA retention and RA bioconversion from VA depended on the dietary unsaturated FA proportions. The higher levels of hepatic RA in the liver of mice fed an olive oil+TFA diet could be associated with a raised Δ9‐desaturase index. The FA composition of tissues was scarcely modified by the consumption of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils containing similar proportions of t9‐, t10‐, and t11‐18:1.

Practical applications: The present study evaluates the interaction of hydrogenated vegetable oils with different edible oils and the impact on the FA profile and, specifically, TFA incorporation and retention in the tissues. Since the characterization of FA present in tissues might be determining the biological effects of edible fats, this study is relevant for elucidation of existing controversial findings associated with the intake of TFA and its effects on human metabolic alterations.

The levels of trans fatty acids (TFA) in a particular tissue might be related to different variables including: type and level of the dietary TFA isomer; uptake, metabolization and release from the tissue, and interference with different dietary fatty acids.
Evaluation of contamination associated with current blood spot technology for determining the fatty acid status of individuals
Authors: Liu Ge , Mühlhäusler Beverly Sara , Gibson Robert Alan
Published: February 2015

A newly developed method for determining fatty acid status in samples of whole blood using collection papers was evaluated. Fresh blood was analyzed either directly or after being applied to a strip of blood collection paper. When compared with fresh blood, spotted blood samples exhibited a higher percentage of saturated fatty acids and lower percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially when the volume of blood spot was low, suggesting the presence of contaminants in the paper. This was confirmed by gas chromatography analysis of blank collection papers which produced peaks which corresponded with saturated fatty acids. Further studies revealed that latex gloves, aluminium bags and polyethylene bags also have the potential to contaminate blood spot samples during sample collection, processing, and storage. The choice of collection paper, gloves, and storage bags which contain the minimum amount of contaminants is therefore essential to reduce the impact of external contaminants on the blood spot fatty acid analysis results.

Practical applications: This research shows that the choice of collection paper, gloves, and storage bags which contain the minimum amount of contaminants is essential to reduce the impact of external contaminants on the blood spot fatty acid analysis results. Moreover, this work shows the potential of using Whatman ion exchange paper in clinical trials that are aimed at measuring the fatty acids composition in dried blood spots, to provide more accurate results.

Attempts to validate blood spot technology for determining the fatty acid status of individuals found that contaminants various sources may reduce the accuracy of fatty acid analysis results of blood spot samples. This study evaluates levels of contaminants in different collection papers to develop a method which would minimize the contaminant problem.
Benzoyl Peroxide Promoted Radical ortho‐Alkylation of Nitrogen Heteroaromatics with Simple Alkanes and Alcohols
Authors: Fang Lei , Chen Liangshun , Yu Jianjun , Wang Limin
Published: February 2015

A catalytic amount of benzoyl peroxide (BPO)‐initiated cross‐dehydrogenative coupling reaction of N‐iminopyridine ylides with simple alkanes and alcohols leads to the corresponding 2‐alkylpyridines with high regioselectivity in moderate to good yields without an additional reduction step to remove the activated group.
On the Effect of Backbone Modifications in 3,3‐Dimethyl‐1‐(trifluoromethyl)‐3H‐1λ3,2‐benziodaoxole
Authors: Santschi Nico , Matthey Coraline , Schwenk Rino , Otth Elisabeth , Togni Antonio
Published: February 2015

We report on the effect of small side‐chain modifications to the structure of 3,3‐dimethyl‐1‐(trifluoromethyl)‐3H‐1λ3,2‐benziodaoxole (1b) on its reactivity, as expressed by the initial rate v0 in a model reaction, and show how the latter can be successfully correlated to an easily determined physical parameter p, a 13C NMR chemical shift. The relationship v0 ~ p is already present in the simplest starting material devoid of the hypervalent bond and the iodine core and, therefore, presents an interesting approach towards the future scaffold‐optimization of this class of reagents.
Synthesis, Structure, and Conformational Analysis of Nucleoside Analogues Comprising Six‐Membered 1,3‐Oxathiane Sugar Rings
Authors: Abou Assi Hala , Martínez‐Montero Saúl , Dixit Dilip M. , Chua Zhijie , Bohle D. Scott , Damha Masad J.
Published: February 2015

We report on the synthesis, characterization, and conformational analysis of 1,3‐oxathiane nucleosides of both pyrimidine and purine nucleobases. The novel nucleoside analogues were prepared from readily available starting materials as α/β anomeric mixtures. The purine nucleosides were obtained as separable N7/N9 regioisomers. The structures were identified by extensive NMR analysis. The X‐ray structure of the N7‐β‐OMe‐purine nucleoside analogue 16 shows that the 1,3‐oxathiane sugar ring adopts a perfect chair conformation with both the hydroxymethyl and the nucleobase placed in equatorial positions.
The effect of red on male perceptions of female attractiveness: Moderation by baseline attractiveness of female faces
Authors: Young Steven G.
Published: February 2015

Past research has demonstrated the importance of color in a variety of social contexts, including human mating. For example, red increases heterosexual men's feelings of attraction toward women. In the current work, this basic red‐attraction link is qualified by the initial attractiveness of female faces. In two experiments, red enhanced men's ratings of female attractiveness, but only for faces pre‐rated as attractive; red had no influence on perceptions of initially unattractive faces. Additionally, Experiment 1 manipulated how long participants viewed attractive and unattractive faces as an exploratory test of when color and face features are integrated. The findings show that initial female attractiveness moderates the influence of red on judgments of attractiveness even when the faces are viewed for extremely short exposures. The present findings identify an important boundary condition of the red‐attractiveness effect and provide an initial indication of where in the processing stream color impacts social judgments. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Electrochemical Compact Disk‐type Microfluidics Platform for Use as an Enzymatic Biosensor
Authors: Rattanarat Poomrat , Teengam Prinjaporn , Siangproh Weena , Ishimatsu Ryoichi , Nakano Koji , Chailapakul Orawon , Imato Toshihiko
Published: February 2015

A novel centrifuge‐based microfluidic device coupled with an electrochemical detector for the determination of glucose in control human serum is described. The electrochemical compact disk (eCD) platform was based on a poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) material containing reservoir, a mixing chamber, a spiral channel, a carbon‐paste electrode (CPE) detector, and a waste reservoir. For electrode fabrication, a mixture consisting of cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPC), graphite powder, PDMS, and mineral oil was printed and formulated into a PDMS‐based electrode pattern. To enhance electrochemical sensitivity, a graphene‐polyaniline (G‐PANI) nanocomposite solution was cast onto the working electrode surface. During the rotation of the eCD platform at a rotation speed of ∼1000 rpm, a glucose solution and a glucose oxidase solution in separated reservoirs were mixed in a spiral channel to produce hydrogen peroxide by an enzymatic reaction. The produced hydrogen peroxide was determined using the electrode detector set at an applied potential of +0.4 V vs. CPE (pseudo reference electrode). Under optimal conditions, a linear calibration ranging from 1 to 10 mM with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.29 mM (S/N=3) and a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.97 mM (S/N=10) was obtained. Various common interference compounds including ascorbic acid, uric acid, paracetamol, and L‐cysteine were tested. Finally, glucose in control serum samples containing certified concentrations were amperometrically determined and validated. Glucose levels measured using the eCD system matched actual values for the certified reference serum samples with satisfactory accuracy.
A pH Responsive Redox Hydrogel for Electrochemical Detection of Redox Silent Biocatalytic Processes. Control of Hydrogel Solvation
Authors: Contin Andrea , Frasca Stefano , Vivekananthan Jeevanthi , Leimkühler Silke , Wollenberger Ulla , Plumeré Nicolas , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2015

The control of bioelectrocatalytic processes by external stimuli for the indirect detection of non‐redox active species was achieved using an esterase and a redox enzyme both integrated within a redox hydrogel. The poly(vinyl)imidazole Os(bpy)2Cl hydrogel displays pH‐responsive properties. The esterase catalysed reaction leads to a local pH decrease causing protonation of imidazole moieties thus increasing hydrogel solvation and mobility of the tethered Os‐complexes. This is the key step to enable improved electron transfer between an aldehyde oxidoreductase and the polymer‐bound Os‐complexes. The off‐on switch is further integrated in a biofuel cell system for self‐powered signal generation.
Roll‐to‐Roll Sputter Coating of Aluminum Cathodes for Large‐Scale Fabrication of Organic Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Griffith Matthew J. , Cooling Nathan A. , Vaughan Ben , O'Donnell Kane M. , Al‐Mudhaffer Mohammed F. , Al‐Ahmad Alaa , Noori Mahir , Almyahi Furqan , Belcher Warwick J. , Dastoor Paul C.
Published: February 2015

We report the demonstration of sputter‐coated aluminum contacts directly onto P3HT:PCBM organic photovoltaic devices using a R2R process without detrimentally influencing the performance of the devices. The final sputtered devices do not require any protective buffer layers to produce efficient performance. Depth profiling analysis of sputtered films using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) indicated the presence of a 5–6 nm insulating oxide layer generated at the cathode interface for all sputtering target power densities greater than 1.4 W cm−2. The aluminum penetration into the P3HT:PCBM film was found to be consistent with the depth of this oxide layer, suggesting that aluminum penetration into the organic film is not the primary reason for performance limitations in sputtered devices. Introduction of thermally evaporated aluminum buffer layers prior to deposition of sputtered aluminum cathodes demonstrated that the performance of devices after annealing matched those of reference devices prepared with no sputtering for a buffer layer thickness of only 20 nm. Further analysis of the device J‐‐V curves revealed an S‐shaped kink prior to annealing, indicating that the major reason for the poor performance in sputtered devices was the introduction of a charge extraction barrier at the cathode, which was subsequently removed upon annealing. Rigorous removal of oxygen from the sputtering chamber prior to aluminum deposition onto the P3HT:PCBM active layer was subsequently observed to produce a device with an efficiency close to that of the thermally evaporated reference device without the requirement for evaporated buffer layers. The results presented here highlight a pathway towards an alternative R2R cathode fabrication technique that allows the highly efficient aluminum cathodes employed in small‐scale devices to be transferred onto large‐scale, flexible, and low‐cost R2R printed organic electronic devices.
Acute toxicity of chemically and mechanically dispersed crude oil to juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax): Absence of synergistic effects between oil and dispersants
Authors: Dussauze Matthieu , Pichavant-Rafini Karine , Le Floch Stéphane , Lemaire Philippe , Theron Michaël
Published: February 2015

The goal of the present experiment was to assess the relative acute toxicities of mechanically and chemically dispersed oil (crude Arabian Light) in controlled conditions. Juvenile sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) were exposed to 4 commercial formulations of dispersants (Corexit EC9500A, Dasic Slickgone NS, Finasol OSR 52, Inipol IP 90), to mechanically dispersed oil, and to the corresponding chemical dispersions. Acute toxicity was evaluated at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, and 96 h through the determination of 10%, 50%, and 90% lethal concentrations calculated from measured total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations; Kaplan–Meyer mortality analyses were based on nominal concentrations. Animals were exposed to the dissolved fraction of the oil and to the oil droplets (ranging from 14.0 μm to 42.3 μm for the chemical dispersions). Kaplan–Meyer analyses demonstrated an increased mortality in the case of chemical dispersions. This difference can be attributed mainly to differences in TPH, because the chemical lethal concentrations were not reduced compared with mechanical lethal concentrations (except after 24 h of exposure). The ratios of lethal concentrations of mechanical dispersions to the different chemical dispersions were calculated to allow direct comparisons of the relative toxicities of the dispersions. The results ranged from 0.27 to 3.59, with a mean ratio close to 1 (0.92). These results demonstrate an absence of synergistic effect between oil and chemical dispersants in an operational context. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1543–1551. © 2015 SETAC
Humic substances alleviate the aquatic toxicity of polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated silver nanoparticles to organisms of different trophic levels
Authors: Wang Zhuang , Quik Joris T.K. , Song Lan , Van Den Brandhof Evert-Jan , Wouterse Marja , Peijnenburg Willie J.G.M.
Published: February 2015

The present study investigated how humic substances (HS) modify the aquatic toxicity of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as these particles agglomerate in water and interact with HS. An alga species (Raphidocelis subcapitata), a cladoceran species (Chydorus sphaericus), and a freshwater fish larva (Danio rerio), representing organisms of different trophic levels, were exposed to colloids of the polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated AgNPs in the presence and absence of HS. Results show that the presence of HS alleviated the aquatic toxicity of the AgNP colloids to all the organisms in a dose-dependent manner. The particle size distribution of the AgNPs' colloidal particles shifted to lower values due to the presence of HS, implying that the decrease in the toxicity of the AgNP colloids cannot be explained by the variation of agglomeration size. The surface charge of the AgNPs was found to be more negative in the presence of high concentrations of HS, suggesting an electrostatic barrier by which HS might limit interactions between particles and algae cells; indeed, this effect reduced the algae toxicity. Observations on silver ions (Ag+) release show that HS inhibit AgNP dissolution, depending on the concentrations of HS. When toxic effects were expressed as a function of each Ag-species, toxicity of the free Ag+ was found to be much higher than that of the agglomerated particles. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:1239–1245. © 2015 SETAC
The flavour of fruit spirits and fruit liqueurs: a review
Authors: Śliwińska Magdalena , Wiśniewska Paulina , Dymerski Tomasz , Wardencki Waldemar , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: February 2015

Fruit spirits and liqueurs are among the most popular spirit‐based beverages made from fruits such as plums, cherries, melon, apple, citrus and pear. The types of fruits and production methods have a great significance for the quality of the final product. The production process of spirits consists of the following stages: fermentation, distillation and maturation. For this reason scientists started to investigate the composition of fruit spirits and liqueurs in order to monitor the changes occurring in the production process and to control the content of selected compounds negatively affecting human health as well as compounds influencing the flavour and aroma of spirits. Furthermore, studies investigating the authenticity of the products and the identification of their botanical and geographical origin were performed. This article is a summarized description of fruit liqueurs and spirits produced from the above‐mentioned fruits and the characteristics of commonly used techniques for quality assessment of both types of product. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accurate and robust adaptive mesh refinement for aerodynamic simulation with multi‐block structured curvilinear mesh
Authors: Su Xinrong
Published: February 2015

A multi‐block curvilinear mesh‐based adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) method is developed to satisfy the competing objectives of improving accuracy and reducing cost. Body‐fitted curvilinear mesh‐based AMR is used to capture flow details of various length scales. A series of efforts are made to guarantee the accuracy and robustness of the AMR system. A physics‐based refinement function is proposed, which is proved to be able to detect both shock wave and vortical flow. The curvilinear mesh is refined with cubic interpolation, which guarantees the aspect ratio and smoothness. Furthermore, to enable its application in complex configurations, a sub‐block‐based refinement strategy is developed to avoid generating invalid mesh, which is the consequence of non‐smooth mesh lines or singular geometry features. A newfound problem of smaller wall distance, which negatively affects the stability and is never reported in the literature, is also discussed in detail, and an improved strategy is proposed. Together with the high‐accuracy numerical scheme, a multi‐block curvilinear mesh‐based AMR system is developed. With a series of test cases, the current method is verified to be accurate and robust and be able to automatically capture the flow details at great cost saving compared with the global refinement. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Multiplicative Error Model with Heterogeneous Components for Forecasting Realized Volatility
Authors: Han Heejoon , Park Myung D. , Zhang Shen
Published: February 2015

To forecast realized volatility, this paper introduces a multiplicative error model that incorporates heterogeneous components: weekly and monthly realized volatility measures. While the model captures the long‐memory property, estimation simply proceeds using quasi‐maximum likelihood estimation. This paper investigates its forecasting ability using the realized kernels of 34 different assets provided by the Oxford‐Man Institute's Realized Library. The model outperforms benchmark models such as ARFIMA, HAR, Log‐HAR and HEAVY‐RM in within‐sample fitting and out‐of‐sample (1‐, 10‐ and 22‐step) forecasts. It performed best in both pointwise and cumulative comparisons of multi‐step‐ahead forecasts, regardless of loss function (QLIKE or MSE). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of Carbon Supported Nanostructured PtAu Alloy as Electrocatalyst for Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell
Authors: İyigün Karadağ Ç. , Behmenyar G. , Boyacı San F. G. , Şener T.
Published: February 2015

Carbon supported bimetallic PtAu electrocatalysts for sodium borohydride electrooxidation are prepared by a modified citrate stabilized NaBH4 reduction process at different pH and temperature values. The physical properties of the materials are characterized by X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Nano sized electrocatalysts have narrow size distributions and are uniformly dispersed on the surface of carbon support. Electrochemical performances of catalysts for sodium borohydride electrooxidation are tested with 25 cm2 single fuel cell. The highest performance is obtained at a peak power density of 161 mW cm−2 with 20 wt. % PtAu/C catalyst of 7.03 nm. Impact of the fuel cell operation parameters including concentration of NaBH4, flow rates of oxidant and fuel, and fuel cell operation temperature are investigated. The best operation parameters are obtained at 1 M NaBH4 concentration, 3 cm3 min−1 NaBH4 flow rate, 0.2 dm3 min−1 oxygen flow rate and 65 °C fuel cell temperature.
Membrane Electrode Assembly with Ultra Low Platinum Loading for Cathode Electrode of PEM Fuel Cell by Using Sputter Deposition
Authors: Çögenli M. S. , Mukerjee S. , Yurtcan A. Bayrakçeken
Published: February 2015

Cathode electrodes of proton exchange membrane fuel cells were fabricated by using Pt sputter deposition to increase the gravimetric power density (W mgPt−1) with reduced Pt loading. Ultra low Pt‐based electrodes having Pt loading in between 0.0011 and 0.06 mgPt cm−2 were prepared by a radio frequency (RF) sputter deposition method on the surface of a non‐catalyzed gas diffusion layer (GDL) substrate by changing the sputtering time (20, 90, 180, 1050 s). The effect of cathode Pt loading on the performance of membrane electrode assembly were investigated using polarization curve, impedance, H2 crossover and cyclic voltammetry techniques. The effect of backpressure on PEMFC performance was also investigated. Sputter1050 (0.06 mgPt cm−2) exhibited the best power density at 80 °C cell temperature and without backpressure for H2/O2, 100 %RH (297 mW cm−2 and 5 W mgPt−1 at 0.6 V). On the other hand sputter90 (0.005 mgPt cm−2) showed the peak gravimetric power density (15 W mgPt−1 and 75 mW cm−2 at 0.6 V). The Pt utilization efficiency increased as the Pt loading decreased. Sputter20 and sputter90 electrodes yielded insufficient electrochemical surface area (ECSA), higher charge transfer and ohmic resistance, but sputter180 and sputter1050 yielded sufficient ECSA and lower charge transfer and ohmic resistance.
Men and Abortion Decisions
Authors: Hardwig John
Published: February 2015

The male sexual partner often has no voice in the decision about whether to go forward with a pregnancy, and the standard view in bioethics is that he ought not to have. The consensus is that the decision to instead have an abortion is and should be exclusively the pregnant woman's. By and large, the pro‐choice and pro‐life sides are united in this view even though they are divided about the morality of abortion. After all, the developing fetus is in the woman's body; she bears the physical and lifestyle changes involved in being pregnant and the health risks associated with the pregnancy and with either childbirth or abortion. Consequently, so the consensus goes, the decision about having an abortion is her decision, and it is a private decision. Preservation of her privacy can legitimately be used to prevent her partner from knowing about the pregnancy or the decisions being made about it.

As if having a baby were the end of the matter. If it were, I would agree that the choice is the pregnant woman's. But pregnancy—inconvenient, uncomfortable, stigmatizing, and even slightly dangerous though it be—is a very small part of what's involved in having a child. We must get over the idea that abortion decisions are simply about whether to have a baby. If the burden of an unplanned pregnancy or even of an unavoidable childbirth (because an abortion is unavailable) is only a small part of the burden of being a parent, then it is no longer clear why the decision about having the child should be hers alone.
When Should Genome Researchers Disclose Misattributed Pahentage?
Authors: Mandava Amulya , Millum Joseph , Berkman Benjamin E.
Published: February 2015

As analytic tools for genomic sequencing improve, biomedical research will increasingly use this method to draw inferences based on comparisons between the genetic data of a set of individuals thought to be related to each other. Cases in which genomic sequencing will be very useful include those in which a child has a rare or undiagnosed disease that might have an underlying genetic etiology. Researchers will be able to sequence the pediatric proband and both parents to compare their genomes in hopes of finding novel variants that point toward a diagnosis and perhaps to treatment. However, researchers are sure to discover that, in a growing number of cases, the assumed biological relationships between the individuals do not actually exist. Consequently, they will have to grapple with decisions about whether to return incidental findings of misattributed genetic parentage on a much larger scale than ever before. While we make no normative claims about whether individuals ought to value genetic relationships, the disclosure of information about misattributed parentage has the potential to affect familial relationships and notions of personal identity in many ways. Researchers need a decision‐making framework about disclosing this information that accounts for nonclinical factors alongside factors that the incidental findings literature already emphasizes as relevant.

We argue that nondisclosure should be the default position for researchers. We begin by assessing the limited guidance that can be found in the literature on incidental research findings and on disclosure of misattributed parentage in the clinical setting. We then sketch the normative argument that underlies our position, providing a taxonomy of the possible harms and benefits of disclosure. We close by considering three objections: that nondisclosure may cause false beliefs in participants, that researchers may have relationships of trust with their participants that entail a duty to disclose, and that participant preferences should be solicited and followed. We close by suggesting ways in which the consent process could minimize possible harms related to nondisclosure.
Changing hepatitis D virus epidemiology in a hepatitis B virus endemic area with a national vaccination program
Authors: Lin Hsi‐Hsun , Lee Susan Shin‐Jung , Yu Ming‐Lung , Chang Ting‐Tsung , Su Chien‐Wei , Hu Bor‐Shen , Chen Yaw‐Sen , Huang Chun‐Kai , Lai Chung‐Hsu , Lin Jiun‐Nong , Wu Jaw‐Ching
Published: February 2015

The emergence of hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection in the era of widespread HBV vaccination has not been described before. We aimed to investigate the changing epidemiology of HDV infection among high‐ and low‐risk populations after an outbreak of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among injection drug users (IDUs) in Taiwan. A prospective, multicenter, cohort study of 2,562 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive individuals was conducted to determine the prevalence, genotype, and risk factors of HDV infection from 2001 through 2012. The prevalence rates of HDV infection were 74.9%, 43.9%, 11.4%, 11.1%, and 4.4% among HIV‐infected IDUs, HIV‐uninfected IDUs, HIV‐infected men who have sex with men, HIV‐infected heterosexuals, and the general population of HBsAg‐positive subjects, respectively. A significant increase in the trend of HDV prevalence from 38.5% to 89.8% was observed in HIV‐infected IDUs (odds ratio = 3.06; 95% confidence interval: 1.68‐5.56; P = 0.0002). In multivariate analysis, injection drug use, hepatitis C virus infection, HIV infection, serum HBsAg level ≧250 IU/mL, duration of drug use, and older age were significant factors associated with HDV infection. HDV genotype IV (72.2%) was the prevalent genotype circulating among IDUs, whereas genotype II was predominant in the non‐IDU populations (73.3%). In the HIV cohort born after 1987 who were HBsAg negative, over half (52.9%) had antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen antibody levels of <10 mIU/mL and there was a significantly higher HBsAg seroprevalence in the HIV cohort, compared to the control group (8.1% vs. 0.0%; P = 0.02). Conclusion: In the era of HBV vaccination, IDUs and HIV‐infected individuals have emerged as high‐risk groups and a reservoir for HDV infection. Effective strategies are needed to curb the reemerging epidemic of HDV infection in these high‐risk groups. (Hepatology 2015;61:1870–1879)
Fibrates and cholestasis
Authors: Ghonem Nisanne S. , Assis David N. , Boyer James L.
Published: February 2015

Cholestasis, including primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), results from an impairment or disruption of bile production and causes intracellular retention of toxic bile constituents, including bile salts. If left untreated, cholestasis leads to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, which eventually results in liver failure and the need for liver transplantation. Currently, the only therapeutic option available for these patients is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which slows the progression of PBC, particularly in stage I and II of the disease. However, some patients have an incomplete response to UDCA therapy, whereas other, more advanced cases often remain unresponsive. For PSC, UDCA therapy does not improve survival, and recommendations for its use remain controversial. These considerations emphasize the need for alternative therapies. Hepatic transporters, located along basolateral (sinusoidal) and apical (canalicular) membranes of hepatocytes, are integral determinants of bile formation and secretion. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are critically involved in the regulation of these hepatic transporters and are natural targets for therapy of cholestatic liver diseases. One of these NRs is peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPARα), which plays a central role in maintaining cholesterol, lipid, and bile acid homeostasis by regulating genes responsible for bile acid synthesis and transport in humans, including cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoform 7A1 (CYP7A1), CYP27A1, CYP8B1, uridine 5'‐diphospho‐glucuronosyltransferase 1A1, 1A3, 1A4, 1A6, hydroxysteroid sulfotransferase enzyme 2A1, multidrug resistance protein 3, and apical sodium‐dependent bile salt transporter. Expression of many of these genes is altered in cholestatic liver diseases, but few have been extensively studied or had the mechanism of PPARα effect identified. In this review, we examine what is known about these mechanisms and consider the rationale for the use of PPARα ligand therapy, such as fenofibrate, in various cholestatic liver disorders. (Hepatology 2015;62:635–643
A Facile and Efficient One‐Pot Electrochemical Synthesis of Thiazole Derivatives in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Ameri Mohsen , Amoozadeh Ali , Asghari Alireza , Nematollahi Davood , Bakherad Mohammad
Published: February 2015

In the present work, the electrooxidation of hydroquinones 1a and 1b, and catechols 1c and 1d was studied in the presence of rhodanine (3) as nucleophile in a mixture of EtOH and phosphate buffer solution as ‘green’ media using cyclic voltammetry and controlled‐potential coulometry. The results indicated that the corresponding p‐ and o‐quinones formed from the hydroquinones and catechols, respectively, participate in Michael addition reaction to yield new thiazole derivatives. The electrochemical syntheses of these new thiazole derivatives were performed successfully at three graphite rod electrodes in undivided cells in good‐to‐excellent yields at room temperature without any catalyst.