bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase changing stearate ions as active fillers in multifunctional carboxylated acrylonitrile–butadiene composite: Exploring the role of zinc stearate
Authors: Basu Debdipta , Agasty Airit , Das Amit , Chattopadhyay Santanu , Sahu Puspendu , Heinrich Gert
Published: July 2019

A suitable polar additive‐like zinc stearate (ZnSt) was incorporated in varied amounts to the mixture of carboxylated acrylonitrile–butadiene rubber and zinc oxide in the pursuit to introduce smart traits in the composites. Zinc stearate is not reported to effectively crosslink carboxylated nitrile rubber as compared to ZnO but, by the virtue of its strong crystalline nature (solid particles), it enhances the mechanical properties like stress–strain, tear strength, hardness, and so forth of the rubber composites. Moreover, due to the melting nature of the ZnSt at a relatively higher temperature, an alteration of the mechanical behavior of the composite is observed. In addition to the mechanical adaptability, the sample is also found to offer shape memory properties. Initially, the specimens were deformed above the melting temperature (Tm) of ZnSt (∼121 °C) to create a temporary shape, and then they were fixed into that shape by quenching the material to a temperature much below Tm, keeping the stress constant. The permanent form was recovered when the specimens were reheated above Tm without applying any stress. The efficiency of shape fixing was used as the determinant of the shape memory behavior, and up to 90% efficiencies were achieved. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48271.
Anatomy Dissection Course Improves the Initially Lower Levels of Visual‐Spatial Abilities of Medical Undergraduates
Authors: Bogomolova Katerina , Hierck Beerend P. , van der Hage Jos A. , Hovius Steven E.R.
Published: July 2019

Visual‐spatial abilities are considered a successful predictor in anatomy learning. Previous research suggest that visual‐spatial abilities can be trained, and the magnitude of improvement can be affected by initial levels of spatial skills. This case‐control study aimed to evaluate (1) the impact of an extra‐curricular anatomy dissection course on visual‐spatial abilities of medical undergraduates and (2) the magnitude of improvement in students with initially lower levels of visual‐spatial abilities, and (3) whether the choice for the course was related to visual‐spatial abilities. Course participants (n = 45) and controls (n = 65) were first and second‐year medical undergraduates who performed a Mental Rotations Test (MRT) before and 10 weeks after the course. At baseline, there was no significant difference in MRT scores between course participants and controls. At the end of the course, participants achieved a greater improvement than controls (first‐year: ∆6.0 ± 4.1 vs. ∆4.9 ± 3.2; ANCOVA, P = 0.019, Cohen's d = 0.41; second‐year: ∆6.5 ± 3.3 vs. ∆6.1 ± 4.0; P = 0.03, Cohen's d = 0.11). Individuals with initially lower scores on the MRT pretest showed the largest improvement (∆8.4 ± 2.3 vs. ∆6.8 ± 2.8; P = 0.011, Cohen's d = 0.61). In summary, (1) an anatomy dissection course improved visual‐spatial abilities of medical undergraduates; (2) a substantial improvement was observed in individuals with initially lower scores on the visual‐spatial abilities test indicating a different trajectory of improvement; (3) students' preferences for attending extracurricular anatomy dissection course was not driven by visual‐spatial abilities.
Interfacial Self‐Assembly of Closely Packed Nanoparticle Arrays of Silica@Multiporphyrin Hybrids as Light‐Sensitizers for Dye Degradation and Viologen Photochromism
Authors: Wang Jing , Tu Tao , Chen Meng , Qian Dong‐Jin
Published: July 2019

Light‐sensitizer functionalized organic–inorganic hybrid materials have attracted much attention owing to their potential applications in the fields of optoelectronics, heterogeneous catalysis, sensors, and nanotechnology. Here, an interfacial self‐assembly of zero‐dimensional (0D) silica@multiporphyrin array nanohybrids and their 3D Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films is reported. Photoactive tetrapyridylporphyrin (TPyP) was first assembled on the silica nanoparticles’ surfaces via silane, substitution, and coordination reactions to produce nanoSiO2@(Pd‐TPyP)n hybrids. Then, the Cd2+‐nanoSiO2@(Pd‐TPyP)n monolayers and LB films were constructed on the CdCl2 subphase surface. These monolayers and LB films displayed stronger stability, as well as more uniform and closely packed nanoparticle arrays compared with those prepared on the pure water surface, owing to the formation of strong network‐like Pd‐ and Cd‐TPyP coordination units, which significantly enhanced the nanoparticles’ interaction. Further, compared with that of the 0D nanoSiO2@(Pd‐TPyP)n hybrids, the degradation efficiency was nearly 20 times higher when the hybrids’ LB films were used as light‐sensitizers for the photocatalytic degradation of RhB. Finally, flexible photochromic devices were constructed by using the LB films sandwiched between two electrodes, which displayed a reversible photoinduced redox reaction of viologen together with a color change process. Because TPyP was strongly immobilized on the nanoparticles’ surfaces and the particles were connected through the Py‐Pd2+‐Py and Py‐Cd2+‐Py coordination units with the 3D network‐like architecture, the present nanohybrids and LB films had good stability and reusability.
Simultaneous determination of eight constituents in rat plasma by HPLC–MS/MS and its application to a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of Shejin‐liyan Granule
Authors: Li Ling , Zhang Xiuwen , Bu Fengjiao , Chen Nianzu , Zhang Hongmei , Gu Jifeng
Published: July 2019

Shejin‐liyan Granule (SJLY) is an effective traditional Chinese prescription medicine for the treatment of acute pharyngitis. In this study, a selective and convenient HPLC–MS/MS method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of the following eight constituents in the plasma: galuteolin, tectoridin, tectorigenin, iridin, irigenin, irisflorentin, arctiin and arctigenin. The plasma samples were prepared by a protein precipitation method using acetonitrile, and analysis was carried out on a C18 column using a gradient elution at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. The concentration of these analytes was quantified in the positive ion and multiple reaction monitoring modes. The method was validated for selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effect and sample stability. The obtained results were well within the acceptable limits. The established method was then successfully applied to study the pharmacokinetic profiles of the multiple constituents of Shejin‐liyan Granule. According to the area under the curve and maximum concentration data, tectorigenin exhibited the highest exposure followed by arctigenin, irigenin, arctiin and irisflorentin. The concentrations of galuteolin, tectoridin and iridin were low, and a complete concentration–time curve could not be plotted. This research provides useful information for understanding the pharmacokinetics of Shejin‐liyan Granule.
Development of phage biopanning strategies to identify affinity peptide ligands for kappa light chain Fab fragments
Authors: Nascimento André , Mullerpatan Akshat , Azevedo Ana Margarida , Karande Pankaj , Cramer Steven
Published: July 2019

In this work, two phage biopanning strategies were developed to identify affinity peptides for a single Fab and multiple kappa Fabs. For the biopanning rounds, protein L beads were employed to bind Fab targets in a fixed orientation, and NHS functionalized magnetic beads were used to facilitate evaluation of low pH elution conditions. The resulting peptide sequences were synthesized and the binding to different Fabs was evaluated using fluorescence polarization. The first biopanning approach yielded a peptide with similar affinities for two forms of the Fab (recombinantly expressed and post papain‐digestion) as well as the intact antibody. While moderate affinity was observed toward a murine variant of the Fab with the same complementarity determining regions (CDR) region but different framework, minimal binding occurred to a Fab with high sequence homology but containing different CDR loops. The second biopanning strategy yielded a peptide with affinity for all three kappa Fabs indicating that it may be a good lead for the development of more general affinity reagents for recombinant kappa Fabs. Finally, an affinity peptide column was developed, and its efficacy was demonstrated for Fab purification from a complex cell culture fluid mixture. The results presented in this article demonstrate that different peptide‐based phage biopanning strategies can be effectively employed to identify affinity peptide leads for specific Fab and more general kappa Fab purifications.
Hip muscle atrophy in patients with acetabular labral joint pathology
Authors: Mendis M. Dilani , Wilson Stephen J. , Hayes David A. , Hides Julie A.
Published: July 2019

Intra‐articular hip joint pathology is a source of hip and groin pain in active individuals and is thought to be a precursor to hip osteoarthritis. Limited evidence exists to guide appropriate physiotherapy management for these patients. Identification of which hip muscles are affected may help clinicians to develop effective exercise programs. A cross‐sectional observational study in a hospital setting was conducted to investigate the size of individual hip abductor, hip extensor, and hip external rotator muscles in patients with acetabular labral joint pathology compared with age and sex matched healthy subjects. Twelve participants (eight females, four males), aged 20–53 years, with a medical diagnosis of unilateral acetabular labral tear and 12 healthy participants were recruited. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess cross‐sectional areas of the gluteus minimus, gluteus medius, upper gluteus maximus, lower gluteus maximus, piriformis, and quadratus femoris muscles bilaterally. Gluteus medius muscle cross‐sectional area was significantly different between groups (P < 0.01, effect size = 0.92) with muscle size found to be smaller in the pathology group. No differences were found for the other hip muscles (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that hip muscles are not all affected equally by the presence of intra‐articular hip joint pathology. Atrophy of specific hip muscles, which are important in hip joint and pelvic stability, may alter hip joint function during gait and functional tasks. Clinicians treating patients with intra‐articular hip joint pathology may need to prescribe exercises targeting the specific muscles with demonstrated dysfunction. Clin. Anat. 33:538–544, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effective botulinum toxin injection guide for treatment of cervical dystonia
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Choi You‐Jin , Cong Liyao , Lee Kyu‐Lim , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to elucidate the distribution of the accessory nerve within the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) to aid identifying the optimum sites for botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injections and applying chemical neurolysis. Thirty SCM specimens from 15 Korean cadavers were used in this study. Sihler's staining was applied to 10 of the SCM specimens. Transverse lines were drawn in 20 sections to divide the SCM into 10 divisions vertically, and a vertical line was drawn into the medial and lateral halves from the mastoid process to the sternoclavicular joint. The most densely innervated areas were 5/10–6/10 and 6/10–7/10 along the lateral and medial parts of the muscle, respectively. We suggest injecting BoNT in the medial region 6/10–7/10 along the SCM prior to injecting in the lateral region 5/10–6/10 along the muscle to ensure safe and effective treatment. Clin. Anat. 33:192–198, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence of aging on the insertion of the Achilles tendon: A magnetic resonance study
Authors: Pękala Przemysław A. , Drzymała Anna , Kaythampillai Lourdes , Skinningsrud Bendik , Mizia Ewa , Rok Tomasz , Wojciechowski Wadim , Tomaszewski Krzysztof A.
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to examine the variations of the Achilles tendon (AT) insertion point into the calcaneal bone (CB) in relation to age and sex using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A total of 202 foot and ankle MRIs were reviewed and patients were allocated into three age groups: (I) <18, (II) 18‐65, and (III) >65 years. All measurements were obtained on a mid‐sagittal scan. The mean measurement values were used to assess the relationships among the AT insertion point, sex, and age. Our main findings revealed that (1) the distance between the most inferior point of the CB and the most inferior part of the AT insertion into the CB increases with age, (2) the height of the AT insertion into the posterior aspect of the CB decreases with age, and (3) the length of the AT insertion into the posterior aspect of the CB decreases with age. The terminal insertion point of the AT on the CB in younger subjects was more distal, whereas in older individuals it was more proximal. These results could help in developing novel strategies for the treatment and prophylaxis of AT injuries in particular patient age groups. Anatomical data about the AT insertion are crucial for developing a computer model of the AT and for biomechanical considerations regarding this tendon. Clin. Anat. 33:545–551, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The simian crease: Relationship to various genetic disorders
Authors: Wahl Lauren , Dupont Graham , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: July 2019

The creases of the palm have been of interest for clinicians, anthropologists, and palmists for hundreds of years, but the variations in them have only been studied during the past 50 years. The simian crease, aptly named for its resemblance to the palmar creases of nonhuman simian primates, has received recognition clinically and anthropologically owing to its abnormal appearance and confounding cytogenetic etiology. Given the rarity of these palmar creases but also their usefulness in diagnosing congenital disorders, discussion of cases of those disorders could provide clinicians with further helpful diagnostic knowledge. This review of the literature focuses on the history, embryology, genetic and hereditary origins, and clinical significance of simian creases for the benefit of the diagnosing clinician. Clin. Anat. 32:1042–1047, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Safe Zones for Cerclage Wiring of the Humeral Diaphysis
Authors: Kadar Assaf , Kahan Joseph B. , Leslie Michael P. , Yoo Brad J. , Baumgaertner Michael R.
Published: July 2019

Cerclage wiring of the humeral diaphysis entails particular danger to the radial nerve and the deep brachial artery. We sought to delineate safe zones for minimally invasive cerclage wiring of the humeral diaphysis, specifically in relation to the radial nerve and accompanying vasculature. Cerclage wires were percutaneously inserted into three groups of fresh‐frozen cadaveric humeri. Group 1—proximal midshaft humerus at 30% of humeral height (n = 4); Group 2—midshaft spiral groove at 45% of humeral height (n = 4); and Group 3—distal midshaft humerus at 60% of humeral height (n = 4). Subsequently, an extensive surgical exploration of the arteries and nerves around the humerus was performed, noting any disturbance to the vessels or nerves and measuring the distance from the cerclage wire to the radial nerve. Neurovascular structures were injured in 75% of specimens when the cerclage wire was inserted at the level of the spiral groove. Both posterior structures, e.g. the radial nerve and the deep brachial artery, and medial structures, e.g., the median nerve and brachial artery, were incarcerated. Application of the cerclage at 30% or 60% of humeral height did not cause neurovascular injury. Minimally invasive application of the cerclage wire at the spiral groove, which is at 45% of humeral height, is likely to cause injury to neurovascular structures. Application of the cerclage at the proximal or distal midshaft humeral areas is associated with less risk of such injury. Clin. Anat. 33:552–557, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inter‐rater reliability and variability of ultrasound measurements of abdominal muscles and fasciae thickness
Authors: Pirri Carmelo , Todros Silvia , Fede Caterina , Pianigiani Silvia , Fan Chenglei , Foti Calogero , Stecco Carla , Pavan Piero
Published: July 2019

Ultrasound (US) imaging is being increasingly used by Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) specialists to measure the thickness of abdominal muscles. The current study set out to assess the inter‐rater reliability of US measurements of the thickness of the abdominal muscles/fasciae. Three raters (1 = orthopedic specialist, expert on fasciae; 2 = PRM resident; 3 = PRM specialist) with different levels of US training examined the abdominal muscles and fasciae of a healthy volunteer under supine resting and dynamic conditions following a standard US protocol. The probe was positioned along the right lateral abdominal wall at the height of the 12th rib: (1) above the umbilicus at the linea alba, (2) to the side of and approximately 2 cm from the umbilicus, (3) along the mammillary line, and (4) along the anterior axillary line. Each rater measured 17 anatomical structures six times during two sessions. The relative error of the measurements (intra‐rater variability) was slightly higher for the fasciae than for the muscles, and during the dynamic condition than the resting condition. Inter‐rater reliability was good under both conditions for the fasciae (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient = ICC = 0.83) and excellent for the muscles (ICC = 0.99). Knowledge of the fascial anatomy of the abdominal wall is essential for accurate ultrasound examinations and for improving reliability. These findings confirm that US imaging is a reliable, non‐invasive, cost‐effective instrument for evaluating the abdominal muscles/fasciae. Clin. Anat. 32:948–960, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long‐term outcome in patients treated with first‐ versus second‐generation drug‐eluting stents for the treatment of unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis
Authors: van Zandvoort Laurens J. C. , van Bommel Rutger J. , Masdjedi Kaneshka , Tovar Forero Maria Natalia , Lemmert Miguel M. , Wilschut Jeroen , Diletti Roberto , de Jaegere Peter P. T. , Zijlstra Felix , van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Daemen Joost
Published: July 2019

Objective and background

The study aim is to provide long‐term clinical outcome after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for unprotected left main coronary arteries (ULMCA) stenosis with the first‐generation (1st‐gen) drug‐eluting stents (DES) in comparison to 2nd‐gen DES, since this is largely unknown.

Methods

Between May 2002, and December 2014, a consecutive series of 656 all‐comer patients underwent a PCI for ULMCA stenosis at the Erasmus Medical Center. A total of 235 patients were treated with 1st‐gen DES, while a total of 421 patients were treated with 2nd‐gen DES.

Results

Overall, the population consisted of 73% males and 58% presented with an acute coronary syndrome. Median follow‐up time was 1,361 days (range from 0 to 5,031). At 5 years, the cumulative incidence of major adverse clinical events (the primary composite endpoint of all‐cause death, any myocardial infarction or target lesion revascularization; MACE) did not differ between 1st‐ and 2nd‐gen DES (36.8 vs. 38.6%, respectively, Log Rank p = .79, adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.28 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.94–1.74]). No difference was found in the individual endpoints of all‐cause mortality (29.5 vs. 29% respectively, p = .88, adjusted HR = 1.19 [95% CI, 0.84–1.68]), target vessel myocardial infarction (5.0 vs. 8.4%, p = 0.17, adjusted HR = 1.75 [95% CI, 0.78–3.96]) and target lesion revascularization (8.1 vs. 9.8%, p = .94, adjusted HR = 1.16 [95% CI, 0.59–2.29]) between the 1st‐ and 2nd‐gen DES cohorts, respectively.

Conclusions

In this large cohort of consecutive patients treated for ULMCA stenosis, no significant differences were found in the safety and efficacy of 1st versus 2nd‐gen DES at 5 years follow‐up.
Effect of sodium chloride, sucrose, and xanthan gum on pasting properties and gel syneresis of hairless canary seed starch
Authors: Abdel‐Aal El‐Sayed M. , Rabalski Iwona , Hernandez Marta , L’Hocine Lamia , Patterson Carol Ann , Hucl Pierre
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives

Hairless (glabrous) canary seed is a novel food and promising source of starch, protein, and oil that recently received food approval from Health Canada and GRAS status from US FDA. This study is designed to investigate effects of sodium chloride, sucrose, and xanthan gum on pasting properties of starch from two hairless canary seed varieties and their gel stability during refrigerated storage and freeze–thaw treatment in comparison with wheat starch.

Findings

The DSC data showed differences in gelatinization transition temperatures and enthalpies indicating differences in starch structure between canary seed and wheat. The addition of sodium chloride lowered breakdown and setback viscosities of canary seed and wheat starch pastes but in a different way as indicated by opposite effects on peak viscosity. Sucrose increased peak, trough, and final viscosities of canary seed and wheat starches especially at 1.0%. Xanthan gum improved stability of starch paste against heat and shear force. The current study demonstrates better stability for hairless canary seed starch gels over wheat starch gels during refrigerated storage and freeze–thaw treatment.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate the ability of sodium chloride, sucrose, or xanthan gum at small concentrations to modulate pasting properties and gel stability of canary seed starch.

Significance and novelty

Use of sodium chloride, sucrose, or xanthan gum to modify canary seed starch pastes and improve gel stability could promote its utilization in food and nonfood industries.
Grain sorghum fractionation in a modified dry grind ethanol process that includes production of an enriched protein fraction
Authors: Johnston David B.
Published: July 2019

Background and objectives

The dry grind ethanol process currently utilizes almost exclusively corn. The potential to utilize alternative feedstocks in existing corn‐based facilities is highly dependent on factors such as availability and cost but also on process compatibility and the impact on the coproducts. Grain sorghum is an alternative feedstock that has the potential to be widely utilized in existing facilities. In this study, grain sorghum was utilized for the production of ethanol and a postfermentation fraction process for the isolation of an enriched protein fraction was used and compared with conventional processing.

Findings

The yield and compositional data for each fraction were calculated, and an estimated economic value of each of the fractions was developed based on protein content. The protein fraction isolated contained 58.7% protein with less than 5% neutral detergent fiber. Estimated values for the modified fractions indicate a 46% improvement in potential coproduct value relative to conventional unfractionated corn‐based DDGS.

Conclusions

Utilization of grain sorghum in a dry grind ethanol process can produce DDGS that have a higher protein content relative to corn DDGS. Utilization of a postfermentation screening process followed by centrifugation of the stillage allowed for the recovery of an enriched protein fraction having minimal fiber content that would allow the protein fraction to be utilized in nonruminant animal feed diets.

Significance and novelty

Fractionation of grain sorghum in an ethanol process has not been previously reported in the literature.
Nitrogen‐doped Graphene Chainmail Wrapped IrCo Alloy Particles on Nitrogen‐doped Graphene Nanosheet for Highly Active and Stable Full Water Splitting
Authors: Si Zhang , Lv Zaozao , Lu Luhua , Liu Muye , Chen Ying , Jin Hongyun , Tian Xiaocong , Dai Kai , Liu Jinghai , Song Weiguo
Published: July 2019

Electrocatalysts have been used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen for their advantages in clean energy technologies. To reduce cost and enhance stability of electrocatalysts, intensive works have been done in recent decades. Although research on noble‐metal free electrocatalysts has achieved great progress, their full water splitting performance is still incomparable to that of noble metal based catalysts. For this reason, reducing content of noble metal in catalysts is a more practical way. In this work, we report our recent progress on developing bifunctional electrocatalyst based on nitrogen‐doped graphene chainmail wrapped IrCo alloy particles on nitrogen‐doped graphene (NG@IrCo/NG). Benefited from strong interaction among iridium, cobalt and nitrogen‐doped graphene, impressively high electrocatalytic activity of hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in both acid and alkaline solutions, which are comparable to commercially used Pt/C and IrO2 electrocatalysts respectively, is found. Catalyst with the structure of nitrogen doped chainmail wrapping on metal core is found to have highly stable full water splitting performance.
Ligand Effect on Iron‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions: Evaluation of Amides as O‐Coordinating Ligands
Authors: Bisz Elwira , Kardela Marlena , Szostak Michal
Published: July 2019

The development of new highly efficient O‐coordinating ligands for iron‐catalyzed C(sp2)−C(sp3) cross‐coupling reactions is reported. A structure‐reactivity study on the effect of amides as ligands in the industrially‐important iron‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of aryl chlorides with challenging organometallics possessing β‐hydrogens was performed. Investigation of a series of new 21 ligands that rationally vary in O‐coordination aptitude as well as sterics around the amide bond pinpointed the features that are important for catalysis. The study led to the discovery of several highly efficient ligands for cross‐coupling, including TMU (TMU=tetramethylurea), N‐cyclic and coordinating benzamides. Crucially, the study demonstrates several avenues for replacing reprotoxic NMP, which is currently still the most common additive in industrial applications of sustainable iron‐catalyzed cross‐coupling chemistry.
Dynamic Impedance Spectroscopy of Nickel Hexacyanoferrate Thin Films
Authors: Erinmwingbovo Collins , Koster Dominique , Brogioli Doriano , La Mantia Fabio
Published: July 2019

Dynamic multi‐frequency analysis (DMFA) is capable of acquiring high‐quality frequency response of electrochemical systems under non‐stationary conditions in a broad range of frequencies. In this work, we used DMFA to study the kinetics of (de‐)intercalation of univalent cations (Na+ and K+) in thin films of nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) during cyclic voltammetry. For this system, the classic stationary electrochemical impedance spectroscopy fails due to the instability of the oxidized form of NiHCF. We are showing that such spectra can be fitted with a physical model described by a simple two‐step intercalation mechanism: an adsorption step followed by an insertion step. The extracted kinetic parameters are depending on the state of charge as well on the nature of the inserted cation.
In Situ Synthesis of Ultrathin Graphene‐Like Nanosheets as a Highly Effective Oxygen Catalyst for Zinc−Air Batteries
Authors: Wu Chao , Song Li , Li Linghui , Xia Wei , Jiang Cheng , Gao Bin , Du Yanqiu , Wang Tao , He Jianping
Published: July 2019

Two‐dimensional materials have large specific area, high electron transfer capability and abundant exposed active sites, which are beneficial to improve their catalytic properties. Here, we used a simple salt‐template method to construct ultrathin graphene‐like Fe/N−C nanosheets (named as Fe/GNS‐1.5). During the synthesis process, NaCl crystallite serves as a rigid template of two‐dimensional mesoscopic structure. Iron nitrate acts as a gas‐foaming agent, which plays pivotal part in the morphology and structure of catalysts. The obtained Fe/GNS‐1.5 nanosheets with a thickness of 3 nm have a large specific surface area (705 m2 g−1). Benefiting from the structure advantages, Fe/GNS‐1.5 exhibits a great bifunctional catalytic performance. The Fe/GNS‐1.5 catalyst is employed as air cathode of zinc−air battery to examine its practical application, which presents excellent power density (156 mW cm−2) and favorable cyclic stability for more than 600 cycles.
Towards Nonalternant Nanographenes through Self‐Promoted Intramolecular Indenoannulation Cascade by C−F Bond Activation
Authors: Akhmetov Vladimir , Feofanov Mikhail , Papaianina Olena , Troyanov Sergey , Amsharov Konstantin
Published: July 2019

Large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) containing pentagons represent an important class of compounds that are considered to be superior materials in future nano‐electronic applications. From this perspective, the development of synthetic approaches to large PAHs and nanographenes (NGs) is a matter of great importance. In this context indenoannulation appears to be the most practical way to introduce pentagons into NGs. Here we report that alumina‐mediated C−F bond activation is an attractive tool for the synthesis of non‐alternant NGs bearing several pentagons. The unique nature of the reaction leads to a rather counter‐intuitive outcome and allows considering each previous aryl–aryl coupling as a promoter of the following one, despite the continuous increase in the strain energy. Thus, the presented strategy combines both facile synthesis and significant yields for large nonalternant PAHs and NGs.
The VALID‐CRT risk score reliably predicts response and outcome of cardiac resynchronization therapy in a real‐world population
Authors: Bertaglia Emanuele , Arena Giuseppe , Pecora Domenico , Reggiani Albino , D'Onofrio Antonio , Palmisano Pietro , De Simone Antonio , Caico Salvatore I. , Marini Massimiliano , Maglia Giampiero , Ferraro Anna , Solimene Francesco , Cecchetto Antonella , Malacrida Maurizio , Botto Giovanni L. , Lunati Maurizio , Stabile Giuseppe
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The aim of the study was to confirm the value of the VALID‐cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) risk score in predicting outcome and to assess its association with clinical response (CR) in an unselected real‐world CRT population.

Methods and Results

The present analysis comprised all consecutive CRT patients (pts) enrolled in the CRT‐MORE registry from 2011 to 2013. Pts were stratified into five groups (quintiles 1‐5) according to the VALID‐CRT risk predictor index applied to the CRT‐MORE population. In the analysis of clinical outcome, adverse events comprised death from any cause and non‐fatal heart failure (HF) events requiring hospitalization. CR at 12‐month follow‐up was also assessed. We enrolled 905 pts. During a median follow‐up of 1005 [627‐1361] days, 134 patients died, and 79 had at least one HF hospitalization. At 12 months, 69% of pts displayed an improvement in their CR. The mean VALID‐CRT risk score derived from the CRT‐MOdular Registry (MORE) population was 0.317, ranging from −0.419 in Q1 to 2.59 in Q5. The risk‐stratification algorithm was able to predict total mortality after CRT (survival ranging from 93%‐Q1 to 77%‐Q5; hazards ratio [HR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25‐1.61, P < .0001), and HF hospitalization (ranging from 95% to 90%; HR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.06‐1.45, P = .009). CR was significantly lower in pts with a high‐to‐very high risk profile (Q4‐5) than in pts with a low‐to‐intermediate risk profile (Q1‐2‐3) (55% vs 79%, P < .0001).

Conclusion

The VALID‐CRT risk‐stratification algorithm reliably predicts outcome and CRT response after CRT in an unselected, real‐world population.
Templateless Electropolymerization for Controlled Growth of Polymeric Nanotubes on Micropatterned Surfaces
Authors: Bombera Radoslaw , Ramos Chagas Gabriela , Valsesia Andrea , Colpo Pascal , Guittard Frédéric , Darmanin Thierry
Published: July 2019

Controlling the growth of nanostructures on surfaces is fundamental to develop new materials for various fields of applications such as sensing or biomedical applications. Here, we study for the first time the influence of micropatterned substrates on the growth of nanotubes using a templateless electropolymerization approach. The influence of both the nature of the monomer and the deposition charge used in the polymerization process is assessed along with geometric parameters of the microstructured surfaces composed of bidimensionally distributed squared micropillars. First, we show that the formation of nanotubes is always favored at the basis of the microfeatures rather than on their top surface. As a consequence, it is preferable to avoid using monomers which lead to mono‐directional (1D) nanotube growth which would be only generated at the basis of the micropillars. By contrast, monomers leading to extremely short nanotubes (nanocups) are preferred. In addition, we hereby demonstrate that the surface coverage with the nanotubes is highly dependent on the geometric parameters of micropatterned substrates. Indeed, the growth of the nanostructures over the micropillars requires a significant energy and thus micropillars of lower height give optimal results. We demonstrate that it is possible to obtain a complete coverage of the microstructured substrate at even very low deposition charge applied during the electropolymerization step.
Optimizing the setup of a flatbed color scanner for color measurement using full factorial design
Authors: Hasanlou Elham , Shams‐Nateri Ali , Izadan Hossein
Published: July 2019

The application of flatbed color scanners for the measurement of color in various industries, especially textile industry, has received a great deal of attention. The initial setup of a scanner and the investigation of factors with a significant effect on scanner outputs are necessary to measure a reliable color using the scanner. In the present study, the setup of a flatbed color scanner was optimized using a full factorial design technique. Three factors, including the scanning position on the glass surface of the scanner (A), cutting size of an image in pixels (B), and bit depth (C), at different levels as input factors, and signal‐to‐noise ratio and variance of the scanned image as the responses were considered for the evaluation of the reliability of the scanner color measurement. The results of analyzing the factorial design indicate that each of the three factors played a significant role in the scanner setup for the color measurement so that factor A demonstrated the most significant impact on the responses.
Subjective evaluation of natural high‐saturated images on a wide gamut display
Authors: Kumakura Erika , Schmid Katja , Yokosawa Kazuhiko , Werner Annette
Published: July 2019

In previous studies of image evaluation using wide color gamut displays, it is unclear to what degree people prefer the chroma‐varying images, especially the images that are more saturated than the most preferred image. Here, we present a study using a wide color gamut display, which measured viewers' most preferred level of image chroma (experiment 1) and their subjective evaluation of images that were less or more saturated than the previously most preferred one (experiment 2). The results showed that (a) the subjects' preferences for the original or for more saturated images depended on the images' original chroma and (b) the subjective evaluation of the images, that is, Valence and Arousal, did not deteriorate when the chroma of images increased more than the most preferred level. Such results indicate that the increase of the image chroma in wider color gamut displays can have a substantial influence on the impression images have on viewers.
Controlling the Three‐Phase Boundary in Na–Oxygen Batteries: The Synergy of Carbon Nanofibers and Ionic Liquid
Authors: Pozo‐Gonzalo Cristina , Zhang Yafei , Ortiz‐Vitoriano Nagore , Fang Jian , Enterría Marina , Echeverría María , López del Amo Juan Miguel , Rojo Teófilo , MacFarlane Douglas R. , Forsyth Maria , Howlett Patrick C.
Published: July 2019

A series of electrospun binder‐free carbon nanofiber (CNF) mats have been studied as air cathodes for Na–oxygen batteries using a pyrrolidinium‐based electrolyte and compared with the commercial air cathode Toray 090. A tenfold increase in the discharge capacity is attained when using CNFs in comparison with Toray 090, affording a discharge capacity of 1.53 mAh cm−2 at a high discharge rate of 0.63 mA cm−2. The good specific discharge and charge capacities of these CNFs are determined by the void space and the highly accessible surface of the carbon fiber. Furthermore, a threefold increase has been attained in terms of specific capacity by controlling the flooding of the air cathode and hence the location of the three‐phase boundary within the CNF mat. The enhancement in performance has been correlated to the morphology, composition, distribution, and location of the discharge products. Sodium superoxide and peroxide were identified as the discharge products and, more importantly, the common side reaction discharge products, which are known to be detrimental to battery performance (including sodium fluoride, sodium hydroxide, and formate), were not observed, exemplifying the stability of the pyrrolidinium‐based electrolyte and these binder‐free CNF air cathodes.
A Novel Rapid Method of Red Blood Cell and Platelet Permeabilization and Staining for Flow Cytometry Analysis
Authors: Fauré Sixtine , Van Agthoven Andreas , Bernot Denis , Altié Alexandre , Grino Michel , Alessi Marie‐Christine , Malergue Fabrice , Canault Matthias
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Flow cytometry essentially focuses on surface‐expressed proteins, with few protocols being devoted to intracellular components. We evaluated a two‐step procedure using new formaldehyde‐free permeabilization and staining reagents that allow the staining of platelets and red blood cells (RBCs) from whole blood.

METHODS

Citrated blood was treated with the new staining protocol (NSP) or control reagent (phosphate‐buffered solution bovine serum albumin) and stained with antibodies against surface or intracellular markers. The effects of the NSP on cell integrity, morphology, and content were evaluated.

RESULTS

The NSP slightly reduced the cell count (~20%) and changed the RBC morphology with a 42% mean diameter reduction. Conversely, the NSP did not affect platelet discoid morphology and led to a minor size decrease (11%). These morphological changes neither impelled a gating strategy modification nor interfered with the discrimination among populations based on surface markers. The NSP provided intracellular access to all the tested antigens: CD62P, FXIII, and CD63 in platelets and glycated and fetal hemoglobin (HbA1c and HbF) and nucleic acid in RBCs. The NSP gave excellent intra‐assay precision with minimal impact on cell morphology and fluorescence labelling over time (up to 24 h).

CONCLUSIONS

With the ability to detect surface and intracellular antigens through a rapid preparation protocol without washing steps or toxic formaldehyde treatment, this NSP designed for research offers a marked improvement in the analysis of platelets and RBCs isolated directly from whole blood. Consequently, the NSP opens new avenues to investigate platelet degranulation and erythrocyte subpopulations. © 2019 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Activation of Nrf2 signaling by sitagliptin and quercetin combination against β‐amyloid induced Alzheimer's disease in rats
Authors: Li Yuping , Tian Qiangyuan , Li Zhe , Dang Minyan , Lin Yukiat , Hou Xunyao
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of sitagliptin (Sita), quercetin (QCR) and its combination in β‐amyloid (Aβ) induced Alzheimer's disease (AD). Male Sprague–Dawley rats, weighing between 220 and 280 g were used for experiment. Rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 10) and the groups were as follows: (a) Sham control; (b) Aβ injected; (c) Aβ injected + Sita 100; (d) Aβ injected + QCR 100; and (e) Aβ injected + Sita 100 + QCR 100. Cognitive performance was observed by the Morris water maze (MWM), biochemical markers, for example, MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, Aβ1‐42 level, Nrf2/HO‐1 expression and histopathological study of rat brain were estimated. Pretreatment with Sita, QCR and their combination showed a significant increase in escape latency in particular MWM cognitive model. Further co‐administration of sita and QCR significantly reduced Aβ1‐42 level when compared with individual treatment. Biochemical markers, for example, increased SOD, CAT and GSH, decreased MDA were seen, and histopathological studies revealed the reversal of neuronal damage in the treatment group. Additionally, Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway in rat's brain was significantly increased by Sita, QCR and their combination. Pretreatment with QCR potentiates the action of Sita in Aβ induced AD in rats. The improved cognitive memory could be because of the synergistic effect of the drugs by decreasing Aβ1‐42 level, antioxidant activity and increased expression of Nrf2/HO‐1 in rat brain.
Effectiveness of nalbuphine, a κ‐opioid receptor agonist and μ‐opioid receptor antagonist, in the inhibition of INa, IK(M), and IK(erg) unlinked to interaction with opioid receptors
Authors: Liu Yuan‐Yuarn , Hsiao Hung‐Tsung , Wang Jeffery C.‐F. , Liu Yen‐Chin , Wu Sheng‐Nan
Published: July 2019

Nalbuphine (NAL) is recognized as a mixer with the κ‐opioid receptor agonist and the μ‐opioid receptor antagonist. However, whether this drug causes any modifications in neuronal ionic currents is unclear. The effects of NAL on ionic currents in mHippoE‐14 hippocampal neurons were investigated. In the whole‐cell current recordings, NAL suppressed the peak amplitude of voltage‐gated Na+ current (INa) with an IC50 value of 1.9 μM. It shifted the steady‐state inactivation curve of peak INa to the hyperpolarized potential, suggesting that there is the voltage dependence of NAL‐mediated inhibition of peak INa. In continued presence of NAL, subsequent application of either dynorphin A1‐13 (1 μM) or naloxone (30 μM) failed to modify its suppression of peak INa. Tefluthrin (Tef; 10 μM), a pyrethroid known to activate INa, increased peak INa with slowed current inactivation; however, further application of NAL suppressed Tef‐mediated suppression of peak INa followed by an additional slowing of current inactivation. In addition, NAL suppressed the amplitude of M‐type K+ current [IK(M)] with an IC50 value of 5.7 μM, while it slightly suppressed erg‐mediated and delayed‐rectifier K+ currents. In the inside‐out current recordings, NAL failed to modify the activity of large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ channels. In differentiated NG108‐15 neuronal cells, NAL also suppressed the peak INa, and subsequent addition of Tef reversed NAL‐induced suppression of INa. Our study highlights the evidence that in addition to modulate opioid receptors, NAL has the propensity to interfere with ionic currents including INa and IK(M), thereby influencing the functional activities of central neurons.
Novel steroid sulfatase inhibitors based on N‐thiophosphorylated 3‐(4‐aminophenyl)‐coumarin‐7‐O‐sulfamates
Authors: Daśko Mateusz , Demkowicz Sebastian , Biernacki Karol , Harrous Amira , Rachon Janusz , Kozak Witold , Martyna Aleksandra , Masłyk Maciej , Kubiński Konrad , Boguszewska‐Czubara Anna
Published: July 2019

In the present work, we described convenient methods for the synthesis of N‐thiophosphorylated 3‐(4‐aminophenyl)‐coumarin‐7‐O‐sulfamates as steroid sulfatase (STS) inhibitors. To design the structures of the potential STS inhibitors, molecular modeling techniques were used. A computational docking method was used to determine the binding modes of the synthesized inhibitors as well as to identify potential interactions between specified functional groups on the inhibitors and the amino acid residues present in the active site of the enzyme. The inhibitory activities of the synthesized compounds were tested in an enzymatic assay with STS isolated from a human placenta. Within the set of newly synthesized compounds, 9e demonstrated the highest inhibitory activity in the enzymatic assay with an IC50 value of 0.201 μM (the IC50 value of 667‐COUMATE in the same test was 0.062 μM). Furthermore, we tried to verify if the obtained STS inhibitors are able to pass through the cellular membrane effectively in cell line experiments. In the course of our study, we determined the STS activity in the MCF‐7 cell line after incubation in the presence of the inhibitors (at 100 nM concentration). For this evaluation, we included newly synthesized compounds 9a‐g and their N‐phosphorylated analogs 6a‐h, whose synthesis has been previously described. We found that the lowest STS activities were measured in the presence of N‐phosphorylated derivatives 6e (0.1% of STS activity) and 6f (0.2% of STS activity). The measured STS activity in the presence of 667‐COUMATE (used as a reference) was 0.1%. Moreover, at concentrations up to 1 μM, the most active compounds (6e, 6f, 9b, and 9e) did not exert any toxic effects on zebrafish embryos.
CoRest1 regulates neurogenesis in a stage‐dependent manner
Authors: Monestime Camillia M. , Taibi Andrew , Gates Keith P. , Jiang Karen , Sirotkin Howard I.
Published: July 2019

Background

Developmental processes, including neuronal differentiation, require precise regulation of transcription. The RE‐1 silencing transcription factor (Rest), is often called a “master neuronal regulator” due to its large number of neural‐specific targets. Rest recruits CoRest (Rcor) and Sin3 corepressor complexes to gene regulatory sequences. CoRest not only associates with Rest, but with other transcription regulators. In this study, we generated zebrafish rcor1 mutants using transcription activator‐like effector nucleases (TALENS), to study its requisite role in repression of Rest target genes as well as Rest‐independent Rcor1 developmental functions.

Results

While rcor1 mutants have a slight decrease in fitness, most survived and produced viable offspring. We examined expression levels of RE1‐containing genes in maternal zygotic rcor1 (MZrcor1) mutants and found that Rcor1 is generally not required for the repression of Rest target genes at early stages. However, MZrcor1 mutants undergo more rapid neurogenesis compared to controls. We found that at gastrula stages, Rcor1 acts as a repressor of her gene family, but at later stages, her6 decreased in the MZrcor1 mutant.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, the central role of CoRest1 in neurogenesis is likely due to a Rest‐independent role rather than as a Rest corepressor.
Temporal regulation of Lin28a during mammalian neurulation contributes to neonatal body size control
Authors: Miyazawa Hidenobu , Muramatsu Yukiko , Makino Hatsune , Yamaguchi Yoshifumi , Miura Masayuki
Published: July 2019

Background

The timing of developmental events is tightly regulated along a time axis for normal development. Although the RNA‐binding protein Lin28a plays a crucial role in the regulation of developmental timing in Caenorhabditis elegans, how the timing of Lin28a expression affects the rate and/or duration of developmental events during mammalian development remains to be addressed.

Results

In this study, we discovered that the timing and the duration of Lin28a expression affect embryonic growth. During the neurulation stage of mouse development, endogenous Lin28a levels start to drop. When Lin28a expression was maintained transiently using the inducible tetracycline‐regulated gene expression (Tet‐ON) system [doxycycline (Dox)‐inducible Lin28a transgenic (iLin28a Tg) mice] with Dox administration at E8.5 and E9.5, it resulted in neonatal lethality, increased body weight (organomegaly), and an increased number of caudal vertebrae at birth. On the other hand, Lin28a induction only at E8.5 caused neonatal lethality and organomegaly, but did not affect the caudal vertebra number. Of note, although Dox treatment before or after neurulation still caused neonatal lethality, it neither caused organomegaly nor the increased caudal vertebra number in iLin28a Tg neonates.

Conclusions

Temporal regulation of Lin28a expression during neurulation affects developmental events such as cessation of axial elongation and embryonic growth in mice.