bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CsPbX3 Quantum Dots for Lighting and Displays: Room‐Temperature Synthesis, Photoluminescence Superiorities, Underlying Origins and White Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Wu Ye , Zhang Shengli , Cai Bo , Gu Yu , Song Jizhong , Zeng Haibo
Published: February 2016

Recently, Kovalenko and co‐workers and Li and co‐workers developed CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) inorganic perovskite quantum dots (IPQDs), which exhibited ultrahigh photoluminescence (PL) quantum yields (QYs), low‐threshold lasing, and multicolor electroluminescence. However, the usual synthesis needs high temperature, inert gas protection, and localized injection operation, which are severely against applications. Moreover, the so unexpectedly high QYs are very confusing. Here, for the first time, the IPQDs' room‐temperature (RT) synthesis, superior PL, underlying origins and potentials in lighting and displays are reported. The synthesis is designed according to supersaturated recrystallization (SR), which is operated at RT, within few seconds, free from inert gas and injection operation. Although formed at RT, IPQDs' PLs have QYs of 80%, 95%, 70%, and FWHMs of 35, 20, and 18 nm for red, green, and blue emissions. As to the origins, the observed 40 meV exciton binding energy, halogen self‐passivation effect, and CsPbX3@X quantum‐well band alignment are proposed to guarantee the excitons generation and high‐rate radiative recombination at RT. Moreover, such superior optical merits endow them with promising potentials in lighting and displays, which are primarily demonstrated by the white light‐emitting diodes with tunable color temperature and wide color gamut.
Textile Technologies and Tissue Engineering: A Path Toward Organ Weaving
Authors: Akbari Mohsen , Tamayol Ali , Bagherifard Sara , Serex Ludovic , Mostafalu Pooria , Faramarzi Negar , Mohammadi Mohammad Hossein , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: February 2016

Textile technologies have recently attracted great attention as potential biofabrication tools for engineering tissue constructs. Using current textile technologies, fibrous structures can be designed and engineered to attain the required properties that are demanded by different tissue engineering applications. Several key parameters such as physiochemical characteristics of fibers, microarchitecture, and mechanical properties of the fabrics play important roles in the effective use of textile technologies in tissue engineering. This review summarizes the current advances in the manufacturing of biofunctional fibers. Different textile methods such as knitting, weaving, and braiding are discussed and their current applications in tissue engineering are highlighted.
Covalent Organic Frameworks for CO2 Capture
Authors: Zeng Yongfei , Zou Ruqiang , Zhao Yanli
Published: February 2016

As an emerging class of porous crystalline materials, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are excellent candidates for various applications. In particular, they can serve as ideal platforms for capturing CO2 to mitigate the dilemma caused by the greenhouse effect. Recent research achievements using COFs for CO2 capture are highlighted. A background overview is provided, consisting of a brief statement on the current CO2 issue, a summary of representative materials utilized for CO2 capture, and an introduction to COFs. Research progresses on: i) experimental CO2 capture using different COFs synthesized based on different covalent bond formations, and ii) computational simulation results of such porous materials on CO2 capture are summarized. Based on these experimental and theoretical studies, careful analyses and discussions in terms of the COF stability, low‐ and high‐pressure CO2 uptake, CO2 selectivity, breakthrough performance, and CO2 capture conditions are provided. Finally, a perspective and conclusion section of COFs for CO2 capture is presented. Recent advancements in the field are highlighted and the strategies and principals involved are discussed.
Real‐Time Photoluminescence Studies of Structure Evolution in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Engmann Sebastian , Bokel Felicia A. , Ro Hyun Wook , DeLongchamp Dean M. , Richter Lee J.
Published: February 2016

A method to study the structural evolution of organic bulk heterojunctions via real‐time, in‐situ, steady‐state photoluminescence (PL) is presented. In‐situ PL, in combination with real‐time transmission and reflection measurements, allows us to quantitatively describe the progression of intimate mixing during blade coating of two OPV systems: the common model system poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl)/phenyl‐C61‐butyric‐acid‐methyl ester (P3HT/PCBM), and the higher power conversion efficiency system 7,7′‐(4,4bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐4H‐silolo[3,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl)bis(6‐fluoro‐5‐(5′‐hexyl‐[2,2′‐bithiophen]‐5‐yl)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazaole), p‐DTS(FBTTh2)2/[70]PCBM. Evaluating the time dependence of the PL intensity during drying using a 3D‐random‐walk diffusion model allows for the quantitative determination of the ratio of characteristic domain size to exciton diffusion length during solidification in the presence of the processing additives 1‐chloronaphtalene (CN), 1,8‐octanedithiol (ODT), and 1,8‐diiodooctane (DIO). In both cases, the obtained results are in good agreement with the typically observed fibril widths and grain sizes, for P3HT and p‐DTS(FBTTh2)2, respectively.
Controlled SnO2 Crystallinity Effectively Dominating Sodium Storage Performance
Authors: Fan Linlin , Li Xifei , Yan Bo , Feng Jianmin , Xiong Dongbin , Li Dejun , Gu Lin , Wen Yuren , Lawes Stephen , Sun Xueliang
Published: February 2016

The exploration of sodium ion batteries (SIBs) is a profound challenge due to the rich sodium abundance and limited supply of lithium on earth. Here, amorphous SnO2/graphene aerogel (a‐SnO2/GA) nanocomposites have been successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method for use as anode materials in SIBs. The designed annealing process produces crystalline SnO2/graphene aerogel (c‐SnO2/GA) nanocomposites. For the first time, the significant effects of SnO2 crystallinity on sodium storage performance are studied in detail. Notably, a‐SnO2/GA is more effective than c‐SnO2/GA in overcoming electrode degradation from large volume changes associated with charge–discharge processes. Surprisingly, the amorphous SnO2 delivers a high specific capacity of 380.2 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 50 mA g−1, which is almost three times as much as for crystalline SnO2 (138.6 mAh g−1). The impressive electrochemical performance of amorphous SnO2 can be attributed to the intrinsic isotropic nature, the enhanced Na+ diffusion coefficient, and the strong interaction between amorphous SnO2 and GA. In addition, amorphous SnO2 particles with the smaller size better function to relieve the volume expansion/shrinkage. This study provides a significant research direction aiming to increase the electrochemical performance of the anode materials used in SIBs.
Band Edge Modulated Polymer Layer to Decrease Back Electron Transfer and Increase Efficiency in Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Arulkashmir Arulraj , Sudhakar Vediappan , Krishnamoorthy Kothandam
Published: February 2016

Recombination of charges residing in the TiO2 and redox electrolyte is one of the factors affecting the efficiency of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). To circumvent this recombination, inorganic oxide barrier layers and organic silanes have been coated on TiO2/dyes. Due to the insulating nature of these layers, the efficiency increase is not very impressive. Conducting polymers with different band edges are used to suppress the charge recombination. Amongst the four polymers that are used as barrier layers, a polymer with a highest occupied molecular orbital energy at −5.8 eV and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital at −3.1 eV is found to increase the electron life time at TiO2 and decrease the charge recombination. The electron life time is found to be 88 ms. In addition to the long electron life time, the recombination resistance of this polymer is also high (91 Ω). This resistance is 18% higher than that measured for DSSCs without polymer barrier layer. These factors impact the efficiency of DSSCs. DSSCs fabricated with this polymer as barrier layer exhibit an efficiency of 9.2%, which is 22% higher than that of DSSCs without polymer barrier layer.
Commercial Herbicides Can Trigger the Oxidative Inactivation of Acetohydroxyacid Synthase
Authors: Lonhienne Thierry , Nouwens Amanda , Williams Craig M. , Fraser James A. , Lee Yu‐Ting , West Nicholas P. , Guddat Luke W.
Published: February 2016

Acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) inhibitors are highly successful commercial herbicides. New kinetic data show that the binding of these compounds leads to reversible accumulative inhibition of AHAS. Crystallographic data (to a resolution of 2.17 Å) for an AHAS–herbicide complex shows that closure of the active site occurs when the herbicidal inhibitor binds, thus preventing exchange with solvent. This feature combined with new kinetic data shows that molecular oxygen promotes an accumulative inhibition leading to the conclusion that the exceptional potency of these herbicides is augmented by subversion of an inherent oxygenase side reaction. The reactive oxygen species produced by this reaction are trapped in the active site, triggering oxidation reactions that ultimately lead to the alteration of the redox state of the cofactor flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), a feature that accounts for the observed reversible accumulative inhibition.
Reconstitution of the Cytb5–CytP450 Complex in Nanodiscs for Structural Studies using NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Meng , Huang Rui , Ackermann Rose , Im Sang‐Choul , Waskell Lucy , Schwendeman Anna , Ramamoorthy Ayyalusamy
Published: February 2016

Cytochrome P450s (P450s) are a superfamily of enzymes responsible for the catalysis of a wide range of substrates. Dynamic interactions between full‐length membrane‐bound P450 and its redox partner cytochrome b5 (cytb5) have been found to be important for the enzymatic activity of P450. However, the stability of the circa 70 kDa membrane‐bound complex in model membranes renders high‐resolution structural NMR studies particularly difficult. To overcome these challenges, reconstitution of the P450–cytb5 complex in peptide‐based nanodiscs, containing no detergents, has been demonstrated, which are characterized by size exclusion chromatography and NMR spectroscopy. In addition, NMR experiments are used to identify the binding interface of the P450–cytb5 complex in the nanodisc. This is the first successful demonstration of a protein–protein complex in a nanodisc using NMR structural studies and should be useful to obtain valuable structural information on membrane‐bound protein complexes.
VOCl as a Cathode for Rechargeable Chloride Ion Batteries
Authors: Gao Ping , Reddy M. Anji , Mu Xiaoke , Diemant Thomas , Zhang Le , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Chakravadhanula Venkata Sai Kiran , Clemens Oliver , Behm R. Jürgen , Fichtner Maximilian
Published: February 2016

A novel room temperature rechargeable battery with VOCl cathode, lithium anode, and chloride ion transporting liquid electrolyte is described. The cell is based on the reversible transfer of chloride ions between the two electrodes. The VOCl cathode delivered an initial discharge capacity of 189 mAh g−1. A reversible capacity of 113 mAh g−1 was retained even after 100 cycles when cycled at a high current density of 522 mA g−1. Such high cycling stability was achieved in chloride ion batteries for the first time, demonstrating the practicality of the system beyond a proof of concept model. The electrochemical reaction mechanism of the VOCl electrode in the chloride ion cell was investigated in detail by ex situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results confirm reversible deintercalation–intercalation of chloride ions in the VOCl electrode.
Magnetic Properties of a Single‐Molecule Lanthanide–Transition‐Metal Compound Containing 52 Gadolinium and 56 Nickel Atoms
Authors: Liu Da‐Peng , Lin Xin‐Ping , Zhang Hui , Zheng Xiu‐Ying , Zhuang Gui‐Lin , Kong Xiang‐Jian , Long La‐Sheng , Zheng Lan‐Sun
Published: February 2016

Monodisperse metal clusters provide a unique platform for investigating magnetic exchange within molecular magnets. Herein, the core–shell structure of the monodisperse molecule magnet of [Gd52Ni56(IDA)48(OH)154(H2O)38]@SiO2 (1 a@SiO2) was prepared by encapsulating one high‐nuclearity lanthanide–transition‐metal compound of [Gd52Ni56(IDA)48(OH)154(H2O)38]⋅(NO3)18⋅164 H2O (1) (IDA=iminodiacetate) into one silica nanosphere through a facile one‐pot microemulsion method. 1 a@SiO2 was characterized using transmission electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, and inductively coupled plasma‐atomic emission spectrometry. Magnetic investigation of 1 and 1 a revealed J1=0.25 cm−1, J2=−0.060 cm−1, J3=−0.22 cm−1, J4=−8.63 cm−1, g=1.95, and z J=−2.0×10−3 cm−1 for 1, and J1=0.26 cm−1, J2=−0.065 cm−1, J3=−0.23 cm−1, J4=−8.40 cm−1 g=1.99, and z J=0.000 cm−1 for 1 a@SiO2. The z J=0 in 1 a@SiO2 suggests that weak antiferromagnetic coupling between the compounds is shielded by silica nanospheres.
Synthesis and characterization of polyethylene/oxidized polyethylene miscible blends and role of OPE as a viscosity control
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Z. , Abdala Ahmed A. , Liberatore Matthew W.
Published: February 2016

Polymer blending allows for new materials to be designed with unique properties. Here, blends of linear low density polyethylene (PE) and oxidized polyethylene (OPE) have been prepared. PE/OPE blends are characterized for their molten state properties by thermal analysis and rheology; the solid state properties are studied by scattering, diffraction, and tensile testing. Melt miscibility was confirmed by a negative Flory‐Huggins interaction parameter (χ ∼ −2.3) from Hoffman‐Weeks plots. Additionally, a continuous decrease in melting temperature (from 123 to 119 °C) and thermal stability of blends (25% weight loss from 454 to 416 °C) was observed with increasing OPE loading from 0 to 50 wt %. Time‐temperature master curves revealed the shifting of the glassy region to higher frequencies and formation of relaxed polymer chains in the glassy region. A plasticization effect was observed with zero shear viscosity of the blends decreasing with increasing OPE loading. Finally, a decrease in lamellar thickness of PE (from 180 to 140 Å) with increasing OPE resulted in increasing the blends' brittleness. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43521.
Sonication‐induced self‐assembly of polymeric porphyrin–fullerene: Formation of nanorings
Authors: Riaz Sara , Feng Wang , Khan Ather Farooq , Nawaz Mian Hasnain
Published: February 2016

In this article, we detail the sonication‐induced self‐assembly of polymeric porphyrin and fullerenes into distinct nanorings in solution form. The formation of these trenchant superstructures was the result of the delicate choice of different assembly protocols, solvents, and polymeric tails associated with porphyrin and fullerene. In this study, the sonication supposedly directed the lateral aggregation into uniform ring formation. The sonication time was found to be the key parameter in ring formation. Furthermore, the flexibility of polymeric arms and electronic interactions of porphyrin–fullerene gave rise to synergistically enhanced molecular interactions, and this resulted in discrete morphologies. Key optical data, including the absorption maxima of the complexes, and microscopic studies attested to the nature and morphology of the self‐assembled complexes. This introduction of polymeric arms and sonication protocols in the porphyrin self‐assembly was expected to allow the easy formation of diverse morphologies. Because of the facile fabrication process and uniform morphology, the resulting composite architectures might show promising applications in drug‐delivery and advance materials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43537.
Novel optical properties of Ca12Al10.6Si3.4O32Cl5.4:Ce3+,Li+ phosphor for solid‐state lighting
Authors: Kolte M. , Pawade V. B. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: February 2016

This article reports a novel blue emission in a series of Ca12Al10.6Si3.4O32Cl5.4:Ce3+ phosphor under excitation in the near‐UV wavelength range. This phosphor was prepared using the combustion method. Here, the Ce3+ emission band is observed over a broad range of 380–550 nm, under 365 nm excitation, and is due to 5d–4f transition. The effect of a Li+ charge compensator on the emission properties of the phosphor was also investigated for the first time. X‐Ray diffraction confirmed the phase purity of the synthesized phosphor. The surface morphology and elemental composition of the phosphor were studied using scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between baseline serum glucose, triglycerides and total cholesterol, and prostate cancer risk categories
Authors: Arthur Rhonda , Møller Henrik , Garmo Hans , Holmberg Lars , Stattin Pår , Malmstrom Håkan , Lambe Mats , Hammar Niklas , Walldius Göran , Robinson David , Jungner Ingmar , Hemelrijck Mieke Van
Published: February 2016

Lifestyle‐related risk factors such as hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia have been associated with several cancers. However, studies exploring their link with prostate cancer (PCa) clinicopathological characteristics are sparse and inconclusive. Here, we investigated the associations between serum metabolic markers and PCa clinicopathological characteristics. The study comprised 14,294 men from the Swedish Apolipoprotein MOrtality RISk (AMORIS) cohort who were diagnosed with PCa between 1996 and 2011. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to investigate the relation between glucose, triglycerides and total cholesterol and PCa risk categories, PSA, Gleason score, and T‐stage. Mean age at time of PCa diagnosis was 69 years. Men with glucose levels >6.9 mmol/L tend to have PSA<4 μg/L, while those with glucose levels of 5.6–6.9 mmol/L had a greater odds of PSA>20 μg/L compared to PSA 4.0–9.9 μg/L. Hypertriglyceridemia was also positively associated with PSA>20 μg/L. Hyperglycemic men had a greater odds of intermediate‐ and high‐grade PCa and advanced stage or metastatic PCa. Similarly, hypertriglyceridemia was positively associated with high‐grade PCa. There was also a trend toward an increased odds of intermediate risk localized PCa and advanced stage PCa among men with hypertriglyceridemia. Total cholesterol did not have any statistically significant association with any of the outcomes studied. Our findings suggest that high serum levels of glucose and triglycerides may influence PCa aggressiveness and severity. Further investigation on the role of markers of glucose and lipid metabolism in influencing PCa aggressiveness and severity is needed as this may help define important targets for intervention.
Laparoscopic surgery for patients with colorectal cancer produces better short‐term outcomes with similar survival outcomes in elderly patients compared to open surgery
Authors: Moon Soo Yun , Kim Sohee , Lee Soo Young , Han Eon Chul , Kang Sung‐Bum , Jeong Seung‐Yong , Park Kyu Joo , Oh Jae Hwan ,   the SEoul COlorectal Group (SECOG)
Published: February 2016

The number of operations on elderly colorectal cancer (CRC) patients has increased with the aging of the population. The aim of this study was to evaluate surgical outcomes in elderly patients who underwent laparoscopic or open surgery for CRC. We analyzed the data of 280 patients aged 80 or over who underwent surgery for CRC between January 2001 and December 2010. Seventy‐one pairs were selected after propensity score matching for laparoscopic or open surgery. Operative time, return to normal bowel function, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications, overall survival (OS), recurrence‐free survival (RFS), and prognostic factors affecting survival were investigated. In matched cohorts, operative time in the laparoscopic group was longer than in the open group (P < 0.001). In the laparoscopic group, time to flatus passage (P < 0.001) and length of postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.037) were shorter than in the open group. The rate of operation‐related morbidity was higher in the open group (P = 0.019). There was no difference in OS and RFS between two groups. This study suggests that laparoscopic surgery for CRC in elderly patients may be safe and feasible, with better short‐term outcomes. OS and RFS, however, were not different in both groups.
Targeting ROR1 inhibits the self‐renewal and invasive ability of glioblastoma stem cells
Authors: Jung Eun‐Hwa , Lee Han‐Na , Han Gi‐Yeon , Kim Min‐Jung , Kim Chan‐Wha
Published: February 2016

Glioblastoma is the most malignant of brain tumours and is difficult to cure because of interruption of drug delivery by the blood–brain barrier system, its high metastatic capacity and the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Although CSCs are present as a small population in malignant tumours, CSCs have been studied as they are responsible for causing recurrence, metastasis and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy for cancer. CSCs have self‐renewal characteristics like normal stem cells. The aim of this study was to investigate whether receptor tyrosine kinase‐like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is involved in stem cell maintenance and malignant properties in human glioblastoma. Knockdown of ROR1 caused reduction of stemness and sphere formation capacity. Moreover, down‐regulation of ROR1 suppressed the expression of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐related genes and the tumour migratory and invasive abilities. The results of this study indicate that targeting ROR1 can induce differentiation of CSCs and inhibit metastasis in glioblastoma. In addition, ROR1 may be used as a potential marker for glioblastoma stem cells as well as a potential target for glioblastoma stem cell therapy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding and effectively addressing breast cancer in African American women: Unpacking the social context
Authors: Williams David R. , Mohammed Selina A. , Shields Alexandra E.
Published: February 2016

Black women have a higher incidence of breast cancer before the age of 40 years, more severe disease at all ages, and an elevated mortality risk in comparison with white women. There is limited understanding of the contribution of social factors to these patterns. Elucidating the role of the social determinants of health in breast cancer disparities requires greater attention to how risk factors for breast cancer unfold over the lifecourse and to the complex ways in which socioeconomic status and racism shape exposure to psychosocial, physical, chemical, and other individual and community‐level assaults that increase the risk of breast cancer. Research that takes seriously the social context in which black women live is also needed to maximize the opportunities to prevent breast cancer in this underserved group. Cancer 2016;122:2138–49. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Molecular Simulations of Human and Mouse Aβ1–16 at Different pH Values: Structural Characteristics toward Understanding Cu2+‐Coordinated Amyloid Beta Spheres
Authors: Zhang Ran , Ai Hongqi , Zhu Xueying , Li Qiang
Published: February 2016

As the main sequence responsible for metal ion coordination in the amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide, Aβ1–16 plays a key role in the understanding of the aggregation of Aβ induced by Cu2+ ions. There is no consensus on the nature of the coordination sphere of the Cu2+–Aβ complex so far due to the amorphous conformation of the Aβ1–16 peptide itself and the pH dependence of Cu2+–Aβ coordination. The simulation reported here reveals that human Aβ1–16 monomer has a U‐shape morphology, which is preserved at any pH. This morphology accommodates Cu2+ ions with several binding sites and is also the basis for establishing a center‐distance statistical method (CDSM). Based on this CDSM, specific histidine residues for a Cu2+‐coordinated sphere are identified and the corresponding accurate pH range is established, indicating that the CDSM can be used as a reference to predict the potential coordination sites of metal ions in other amorphous peptides. By contrast, mouse Aβ1–16 monomer has a more open and random morphology than human Aβ1–16 due to the differences of three sequence positions. These mutations not only reduce the number of binding sites required by a stable Cu2+‐binding sphere but also diminish the capacity to generate salt bridges compared to the human peptide. These observations offer insights into the roles of three residues that differ in the mouse Aβ1–16 and perhaps into the reasons mice seldom develop Alzheimer's disease.
Can Fluorinated Molecular Cages Be Utilized as Building Blocks of Hyperhalogens?
Authors: Sun Wei‐Ming , Li Xiang‐Hui , Li Ying , Wu Di , Li Chun‐Yan , Chen Jing‐Hua , Li Zhi‐Ru
Published: February 2016

Based on the density functional theory for exchange‐correlation potential, fluorocarbon molecular cages are investigated as building blocks of hyperhalogens. By utilizing C8F7 as a ligand, a series of hyperhalogen anions, that is, M(C8F7)2− (M=Li, Na, and K) and M(C8F7)3− (M=Be, Mg, and Ca), are modeled. Calculations show that all the C8F7 moieties preserve their geometric and electronic integrity in these anions. These anionic molecules possess larger vertical electron detachment energies (5.11–6.45 eV) than that of C8F7−, verifying their hyperhalogen nature. Moreover, it is also revealed that using larger fluorinated cage C10F9 as ligands can bring about hyperhalogen anions with larger vertical electron detachment energies. The stability of these studied anions is determined by their large HOMO–LUMO gaps and positive dissociation energies of predetermined possible fragmentation pathways. It is hoped this study will provide an approach for the construction of new types of hyperhalogens and stimulate more research in superatom chemistry.
Validation of the Client Diagnostic Questionnaire to Assess Mental Health in South African Caregivers of Children
Authors: Mellins Claude A. , Kauchali Shuaib , Nestadt Danielle F. , Bai Dan , Aidala Angela , Myeza Nonhlahla , Craib Murray H. , Kvalsvig Jane , Leu Cheng‐Shiun , Knox Justin , Arpadi Stephen , Chhagan Meera , Davidson Leslie L.
Published: February 2016

Background

Given the high prevalence of mental health (MH) and substance abuse problems in low‐to‐middle income countries, the scarcity of MH professionals and the negative impact of psychiatric disorders on caregivers of young children, there is significant need for brief evidence‐based screening tools for lay counselors to assist with MH assessment. This study aimed to validate a brief screening tool to assess psychiatric and substance use disorders, the Client Diagnostic Questionnaire (CDQ), in South Africa (SA).

Methods

Data are from a longitudinal study of health and psychosocial needs in preschool children in SA. Participants included 322 Zulu‐speaking, female caregivers. Following procedures of the US CDQ validation study, lay counselors interviewed participants using the translated Zulu CDQ. Subsequently a psychologist conducted a full psychiatric assessment guided by the CDQ questions. Analyses examined sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy, comparing lay counselor and psychologist assessment.

Results

Sensitivity (73%), specificity (81%) and overall accuracy (79%) were good for the variable indicating presence of ‘any diagnosis.’ Among those cases identified by the psychologist as having any psychiatric diagnosis, over 70% were correctly identified by lay counselors using the CDQ (i.e., positive predictive value was greater than 70%). The false positive rate was relatively low (19%). Specificity for ‘any disorder’ (including substance use) and ‘any psychiatric disorder’ were 81% and 79%.

Conclusions

The isiZulu CDQ is a sensitive and valid MH diagnostic screener that can be used by lay counselors with limited MH training to identify those in need of treatment and target extremely scarce MH professionals. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages

South Africa (SA), a country heavily impacted by poverty, HIV and the legacy of Apartheid, has a high prevalence of mental health (MH) and substance abuse problems.

In SA and other low‐and‐middle‐income‐countries (LMIC) there is a dearth of MH professionals.

This study examined use and validity of the Client Diagnostic Questionnaire (CDQ), a brief diagnostic MH screening tool designed for use by lay counselors in HIV‐affected populations.

Comparing lay counsellor diagnoses on the CDQ to clinician assessment, sensitivity, specificity and overall accuracy were good at the level of ‘any diagnosis.’

The CDQ can be used effectively in SA and other LMIC with limited MH services to enable appropriate and efficient referral of individuals in primary care settings, supporting caregivers and the children in their care.
Magnetic flux density bias analysis and suppression strategy for voltage‐fed single‐stage full‐bridge converter
Authors: Zhang Taizhi , Lu Zhipeng , Qian Qinsong , Sun Weifeng , Lu Shengli
Published: February 2016

Power transformer in the voltage‐fed single‐stage full‐bridge (SSFB) converter is easy to be saturated because of the special operating mode of this topology. First and foremost, detailed analysis about the generation mechanism of the transformer saturation in the voltage‐fed SSFB converter is presented for the first time in this paper. Second, the mathematical expression of the maximum value of magnetic flux density bias (MFDB) during every line cycle is deduced. Furthermore, a novel suppressing strategy, consisted of the digital compensating algorithm and design considerations, is proposed based on the theoretical analysis and mathematical expression. The MFDB can be eliminated and additional circuits are not needed with the proposed strategy. Finally, a 1 kW prototype with the voltage‐fed SSFB topology is built to verify the effect of the proposed approach. The voltage‐second imbalance is reduced to less than 1% using the proposed suppression strategy compared with 14% when the strategy is not used. Consequently, the system reliability and the efficiency are improved. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence of antidepressant use in community‐dwelling persons with and without Alzheimer's disease: 13‐year follow‐up
Authors: Puranen Arto , Taipale Heidi , Koponen Marjaana , Tanskanen Antti , Tolppanen Anna‐Maija , Tiihonen Jari , Hartikainen Sirpa
Published: February 2016

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the incidence of antidepressant use in persons with and without Alzheimer's disease (AD) from 9 years before to 4 years after AD diagnosis and to examine the incidence of different antidepressant groups.

Methods

We used register‐based data from the Medication use and Alzheimer's disease cohort including all Finnish persons diagnosed with AD in 2005–2011 with their age‐matched and gender‐matched comparison persons without AD. In this study, 62,104 persons with AD and 62,104 comparison persons were included. Data on dispensed antidepressants during 1995–2012 were collected from the Prescription Register. A 1‐year washout period was utilized to measure the rate of new antidepressant users every 6‐month period starting from 9 years before and until 4 years after the AD diagnoses. The incidence rate between persons with and without AD was compared with Poisson regression.

Results

The incidence of antidepressant use in persons with AD was higher during the whole study period compared with that in persons without AD. The incidence rate was highest at 6 months after AD diagnosis (incidence rate ratio = 5.22, 95% confidence interval 4.77–5.72). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were the most frequently initiated group (61.3% of initiations in persons with AD).

Conclusions

The incidence of antidepressant use was higher in persons with AD than in comparison persons, and it was not explained by history of hospital‐treated psychiatric disorders. Widespread use of antidepressants in persons with AD is concerning as their efficacy is controversial and their use is associated with adverse events. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discrimination and psychiatric disorders among older African Americans
Authors: Mouzon Dawne M. , Taylor Robert Joseph , Keith Verna M. , Nicklett Emily J. , Chatters Linda M.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

This study examined the impact of everyday discrimination (both racial and non‐racial) on the mental health of older African Americans.

Methods

This analysis is based on the older African American subsample of the National Survey of American Life (NSAL) (n = 773). We examined the associations between everyday discrimination and both general distress and psychiatric disorders as measured by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐IV). Six dependent variables were examined: lifetime mood disorders, lifetime anxiety disorders, any lifetime disorder, number of lifetime disorders, depressive symptoms as measured by the 12‐item Center for Epidemiological Scale of Depression (CES‐D), and serious psychological distress as measured by the Kessler 6 (K6).

Results

Overall, racial and non‐racial everyday discrimination were consistently associated with worse mental health for older African Americans. Older African Americans who experienced higher levels of overall everyday discrimination had higher odds of any psychiatric disorder, any lifetime mood disorder, any lifetime anxiety disorder, and more lifetime DSM‐IV disorders, in addition to elevated levels of depressive symptoms and serious psychological distress. These findings were similar for both racial discrimination and non‐racial discrimination.

Conclusions

This study documents the harmful association of not only racial discrimination, but also non‐racial (and overall) discrimination with the mental health of older African Americans. Specifically, discrimination is negatively associated with mood and anxiety disorders as well as depressive symptoms and psychological distress. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potentially inappropriate medications and drug–drug interactions in home‐dwelling people with mild dementia
Authors: Oesterhus Ragnhild , Aarsland Dag , Soennesyn Hogne , Rongve Arvid , Selbaek Geir , Kjosavik Svein R.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to describe the use of psychotropic drugs among home‐dwelling people with mild dementia, to identify potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) and drug–drug interactions (DDI), and to analyze potential variables associated with having PIM and DDI.

Methods

Patients (n = 251) with a first‐time diagnosis of mild dementia (defined as a mini‐mental state examination score >20) were included from outpatient clinics. Prevalence of psychotropic drug use, polypharmacy, and psychotropic polypharmacy were investigated. The prevalence of PIM and DDI were defined using the Norwegian general practice criteria and an interactions database, respectively. Variables associated with having PIM and DDI were assessed using a multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for relevant demographic and clinical variables.

Results

Almost 96% of the patients used one or more medications. Polypharmacy was found in 45% of the patients, and nearly 70% of the patients were using one or more psychotropic drugs. Psychotropic polypharmacy was found in seven patients. PIM were identified in 35 patients (14%), while only four severe DDI were found. Female sex and number of medications were significantly associated with having PIM, whereas only number of medications was significantly associated with having DDI.

Conclusion

Few patients had PIM or severe DDI, indicating that the quality of prescribing was acceptable. However, psychotropic drug use was common in home‐dwelling people with mild dementia despite limited evidence of benefit in dementia. More knowledge is needed about the potential risks associated with psychotropic drug use and having PIM and DDI in people with mild dementia. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Case of Sphenoid Sinus Metastasis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Tae Hoon , Rangan Vikram , Khallafi Hicham
Published: February 2016

Sphenoid sinus metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been reported only rarely. We present a case of solitary sphenoid sinus metastasis of a 2.7 × 2.3 cm single HCC lesion. (Hepatology 2016;63:2050‐2053)
ATP11C targets basolateral bile salt transporter proteins in mouse central hepatocytes
Authors: de Waart Dirk R. , Naik Jyoti , Utsunomiya Karina S. , Duijst Suzanne , Ho‐Mok Kam , Bolier A. Ruth , Hiralall Johan , Bull Laura N. , Bosma Piter J. , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J. , Paulusma Coen C.
Published: February 2016

ATP11C is a homolog of ATP8B1, both of which catalyze the transport of phospholipids in biological membranes. Mutations in ATP8B1 cause progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type1 in humans, which is characterized by a canalicular cholestasis. Mice deficient in ATP11C are characterized by a conjugated hyperbilirubinemia and an unconjugated hypercholanemia. Here, we have studied the hypothesis that ATP11C deficiency interferes with basolateral uptake of unconjugated bile salts, a process mediated by organic anion‐transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B2. ATP11C localized to the basolateral membrane of central hepatocytes in the liver lobule of control mice. In ATP11C‐deficient mice, plasma total bilirubin levels were 6‐fold increased, compared to control, of which ∼65% was conjugated and ∼35% unconjugated. Plasma total bile salts were 10‐fold increased and were mostly present as unconjugated species. Functional studies in ATP11C‐deficient mice indicated that hepatic uptake of unconjugated bile salts was strongly impaired whereas uptake of conjugated bile salts was unaffected. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated near absence of basolateral bile salt uptake transporters OATP1B2, OATP1A1, OATP1A4, and Na+‐taurocholate‐cotransporting polypeptide only in central hepatocytes of ATP11C‐deficient liver. In vivo application of the proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, partially restored expression of these proteins, but not their localization. Furthermore, we observed post‐translational down‐regulation of ATP11C protein in livers from cholestatic mice, which coincided with reduced OATP1B2 levels. Conclusions: ATP11C is essential for basolateral membrane localization of multiple bile salt transport proteins in central hepatocytes and may act as a gatekeeper to prevent hepatic bile salt overload. Conjugated hyperbilirubinemia and unconjugated hypercholanemia and loss of OATP expression in ATP11C‐deficient liver strongly resemble the characteristics of Rotor syndrome, suggesting that mutations in ATP11C can predispose to Rotor syndrome. (Hepatology 2016;64:161–174)
Biocatalytic Approach for the Total Synthesis of (–)‐Malyngolide and Its C(5)‐Epimer
Authors: Srivastava Nikhil , Subba Reddy Basi V.
Published: February 2016

An enzymatic approach has been successfully utilized in the total synthesis of (–)‐malyngolide and its C(5)‐epimer. The required configuration was established by an enzymatic kinetic resolution and Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation.
Marginalized Predictive Likelihood Comparisons of Linear Gaussian State‐Space Models with Applications to DSGE, DSGE‐VAR, and VAR Models
Authors: Warne Anders , Coenen Günter , Christoffel Kai
Published: February 2016

The predictive likelihood is useful for ranking models in forecast comparison exercises using Bayesian inference. We discuss how it can be estimated, by means of marzginalization, for any subset of the observables in linear Gaussian state‐space models. We compare macroeconomic density forecasts for the euro area of a DSGE model to those of a DSGE‐VAR, a BVAR and a multivariate random walk over 1999:Q1–2011:Q4. While the BVAR generally provides superior forecasts, its performance deteriorates substantially with the onset of the Great Recession. This is particularly notable for longer‐horizon real GDP forecasts, where the DSGE and DSGE‐VAR models perform better. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of a quantitative morphological assessment of toxicant‐treated zebrafish larvae using brightfield imaging and high‐content analysis
Authors: Deal Samantha , Wambaugh John , Judson Richard , Mosher Shad , Radio Nick , Houck Keith , Padilla Stephanie
Published: February 2016

One of the rate‐limiting procedures in a developmental zebrafish screen is the morphological assessment of each larva. Most researchers opt for a time‐consuming, structured visual assessment by trained human observer(s). The present studies were designed to develop a more objective, accurate and rapid method for screening zebrafish for dysmorphology. Instead of the very detailed human assessment, we have developed the computational malformation index, which combines the use of high‐content imaging with a very brief human visual assessment. Each larva was quickly assessed by a human observer (basic visual assessment), killed, fixed and assessed for dysmorphology with the Zebratox V4 BioApplication using the Cellomics® ArrayScan® VTI high‐content image analysis platform. The basic visual assessment adds in‐life parameters, and the high‐content analysis assesses each individual larva for various features (total area, width, spine length, head–tail length, length–width ratio, perimeter–area ratio). In developing the computational malformation index, a training set of hundreds of embryos treated with hundreds of chemicals were visually assessed using the basic or detailed method. In the second phase, we assessed both the stability of these high‐content measurements and its performance using a test set of zebrafish treated with a dose range of two reference chemicals (trans‐retinoic acid or cadmium). We found the measures were stable for at least 1 week and comparison of these automated measures to detailed visual inspection of the larvae showed excellent congruence. Our computational malformation index provides an objective manner for rapid phenotypic brightfield assessment of individual larva in a developmental zebrafish assay. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oxidative stress and lung pathology following geogenic dust exposure
Authors: Leetham M. , DeWitt J. , Buck B. , Goossens D. , Teng Y. , Pollard J. , McLaurin B. , Gerads R. , Keil D.
Published: February 2016

This study was designed to evaluate markers of systemic oxidative stress and lung histopathology following subacute exposure to geogenic dust with varying heavy metal content collected from a natural setting prone to wind erosion and used heavily for off‐road vehicle recreation. Adult female B6C3F1 mice were exposed to several concentrations of dust collected from seven different types of surfaces at the Nellis Dunes Recreation Area in Clark County, Nevada, designated here as CBN 1‐7. Dust representing each of the seven surface types, with an average median diameter of 4.2 μm, was selected and administered via oropharyngeal aspiration to mice at concentrations from 0.01 to 100 mg of dust kg–1 of body weight. Exposures were given four times spaced a week apart over a 28 day period to mimic a month of weekend exposures. Lung pathology was evaluated while plasma markers of oxidative stress included levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity and total glutathione. Overall, results of these assays to evaluate markers of oxidative stress indicate that no single CBN surface type was able to consistently induce markers of systemic oxidative stress at a particular dose or in a dose–response manner. All surface types were able to induce some level of lung inflammation, typically at the highest exposure levels. These data suggest that dust from the Nellis Dunes Recreation Area may present a potential health risk, but additional studies are necessary to characterize the full extent of health risks to humans. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moringa oleifera Gold Nanoparticles Modulate Oncogenes, Tumor Suppressor Genes, and Caspase‐9 Splice Variants in A549 Cells
Authors: Tiloke Charlette , Phulukdaree Alisa , Anand Krishnan , Gengan Robert M. , Chuturgoon Anil A.
Published: February 2016

Gold nanoparticles (AuNP's) facilitate cancer cell recognition and can be manufactured by green synthesis using nutrient rich medicinal plants such as Moringa oleifera (MO). Targeting dysregulated oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes is crucial for cancer therapeutics. We investigated the antiproliferative effects of AuNP synthesized from MO aqueous leaf extracts (MLAuNP) in A549 lung and SNO oesophageal cancer cells. A one‐pot green synthesis technique was used to synthesise MLAuNP. A549, SNO cancer cells and normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were exposed to MLAuNP and CAuNP to evaluate cytotoxicity (MTT assay); apoptosis was measured by phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization, mitochondrial depolarization (ΔΨm) (flow cytometry), caspase‐3/7, −9 activity, and ATP levels (luminometry). The mRNA expression of c‐myc, p53, Skp2, Fbw7α, and caspase‐9 splice variants was determined using qPCR, while relative protein expression of c‐myc, p53, SRp30a, Bax, Bcl‐2, Smac/DIABLO, Hsp70, and PARP‐1 were determined by Western blotting. MLAuNP and CAuNP were not cytotoxic to PBMCs, whilst its pro‐apoptotic properties were confirmed in A549 and SNO cells. MLAuNP significantly increased caspase activity in SNO cells while MLAuNP significantly increased PS externalization, ΔΨm, caspase‐9, caspase‐3/7 activities, and decreased ATP levels in A549 cells. Also, p53 mRNA and protein levels, SRp30a (P = 0.428), Bax, Smac/DIABLO and PARP‐1 24 kDa fragment levels were significantly increased. Conversely, MLAuNP significantly decreased Bcl‐2, Hsp70, Skp2, Fbw7α, c‐myc mRNA, and protein levels and activated alternate splicing with caspase‐9a splice variant being significantly increased. MLAuNP possesses antiproliferative properties and induced apoptosis in A549 cells by activating alternate splicing of caspase‐9. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2302–2314, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Huge right ventricular outflow echinococcosis presenting as acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Xiong Feng , Liu Chunxia , Wang Shuzhen , Feng Kun
Published: February 2016

Hydatid disease is a human parasitic infection caused by larvae of Echinococcus granulosus in various sheep‐ and cattle‐raising areas. It can be found commonly in the liver and lungs, but rarely involves the heart. In this report, we present an unusual case in which cardiac echinococcosis mimicked acute coronary syndrome by compressing the right ventricular outflow tract. The patient was referred to our emergency room for typical angina. His electrocardiogram revealed ischemic changes, but coronary angiography was normal. The diagnosis of cardiac echinococcosis was made by transthoracic echocardiography and contrast‐enhanced CT and confirmed by pathologic examination. The patient accepted cardiac surgery for resection of the cyst. The postoperative period and follow‐up were uneventful. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:518–521, 2016