bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transfer Hydrogenation Catalysis by a N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Iridium Complex on a Polyoxometalate Platform
Authors: Modugno Gloria , Monney Angele , Bonchio Marcella , Albrecht Martin , Carraro Mauro
Published: March 2014

A divacant Keggin polyanion has been decorated with a N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) iridium(I) organometallic complex to provide a molecular model of an Ir‐based supported catalyst. The characterization of the hybrid compound has been performed by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and mass spectroscopy, and the results are in agreement with a bisfunctionalization of the polyoxometalate scaffold. The resulting supported homogeneous complex has been successfully used to catalyze the transfer hydrogenation from iPrOH to benzophenone [with a turnover number (TON) of 680 and a turnover frequency (TOF) of up to 540 h–1].
Efficient C–N and C–S Bond Formation Using the Highly Active [Ni(allyl)Cl(IPr*OMe)] Precatalyst
Authors: Martin Anthony R. , Nelson David J. , Meiries Sébastien , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: March 2014

Two new [Ni(allyl)Cl(NHC)] complexes with the bulky yet flexible N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands IPr* {N,N′‐bis[2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐methylphenyl]imidazole‐2‐ylidene} and IPr*OMe {N,N′‐bis[2,6‐bis(diphenylmethyl)‐4‐methoxyphenyl]imidazol‐2‐ylidene} are reported. These complexes were employed in the amination and sulfination of aryl halide species and were shown to perform well in these reactions, which typically required less than half as much catalyst as previous state‐of‐the‐art nickel complexes.
Solar drying and organoleptic characteristics of two tropical African fish species using improved low‐cost solar driers
Authors: Mustapha Moshood K. , Ajibola Taiye B. , Salako Abdulbashir F. , Ademola Sunmola K.
Published: March 2014

This study was done to evaluate the drying performance, efficiency, and effectiveness of five different types of improved low‐cost solar driers in terms of moisture loss from two tropical African fish species Clarias gariepinus (African sharp tooth catfish) and Oreochromis niloticus (Nile tilapia) and testing the organoleptic characteristics of the dried samples. The driers used were made from plastic, aluminum, glass, glass with black igneous stone, and mosquito net, with traditional direct open‐sun drying as a control. A significant (P < 0.05) decrease in weight resulting from moisture loss in the two fish species was observed in all the driers, with the highest reduction occurring in the glass drier containing black stone. The rate of weight loss was faster in the first 4 days of drying with black stone‐inserted glass drier showing the fastest drying rate with a constant weight in C. gariepinus attained on the 11th day and in O. niloticus on the eighth day. The slowest drier was plastic where a constant weight of the species were recorded on and 13th day and 11th day, respectively. Volunteers were used to assess the organoleptic characteristics of the dried samples and they showed lowest acceptability for the open‐sun drying, while samples from the glass drier containing black stone had the highest acceptability in terms of the taste, flavor, appearance, texture, odor, palatability, and shelf‐life. The low‐cost solar driers were effective found in removing water from the fish resulting in significant loss of weight and moisture. The highest drying time, efficient performance, drying effectiveness, and high acceptability of the organoleptic parameters of the dried products from the black stone‐inserted glass drier were due to the ability of the glass and the black stone to retain, transmit, and radiate heat to the fish sample all the time (day and night). These low‐cost driers are simple to construct, materials for its construction readily available, easy to maintain and operate, hygienic in use, reliable, effective, occupies less area, dry products faster with increased shelf‐life, save man‐hour, user‐friendly, use renewable energy, protect the drying samples from filthiness, wetness, and invasion by pests, insects, and microbes, with well‐dried, high‐quality, and better preserved final products. The adoption and use any of these low‐cost solar driers by artisanal fishermen and general household in sub‐Saharan Africa will not only help in reducing post catch losses, but also ensure food safety and security as there is abundant solar energy in these sub‐Saharan African tropical countries for the operation of the driers.
Comparison Between Anode‐Supported and Electrolyte‐Supported Ni‐CGO‐LSCF Micro‐tubular Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Droushiotis N. , Grande F. Dal , Dzarfan Othman M. H. , Kanawka K. , Doraswami U. , Metcalfe I. S. , Li K. , Kelsall G.
Published: March 2014

Two types of micro‐tubular hollow fiber SOFCs (MT‐HF‐SOFCs) were prepared using phase inversion and sintering; electrolyte‐supported, based on highly asymmetric Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95(CGO) HFs and anode‐supported based on co‐extruded NiO‐CGO(CGO)/CGO HFs. Electroless plating was used to deposit Ni onto the inner surfaces of the electrolyte‐supported MT‐HF‐SOFCs to form Ni‐CGO anodes. LSCF‐CGO cathodes were deposited on the outer surface of both these MT‐HF‐SOFCs before their electrochemical performances were compared at similar operating conditions. The performance of the anode‐supported MT‐HF‐SOFCs which delivered ca. 480 mW cm–2 at 600 °C was superior to the electrolyte‐supported MT‐HF‐SOFCs which delivered ca. six times lower power. The contribution of ohmic and electrode polarization losses of both FCs was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The electrolyte‐supported MT‐HF‐SOFCs had significantly higher ohmic and electrode polarization ASR values; this has been attributed to the thicker electrolyte and the difficulties associated with forming quality anodes inside the small (<1 mm) lumen of the electrolyte tubes. Further development on co‐extruded anode‐supported MT‐HF‐SOFCs led to the fabrication of a thinner electrolyte layer and improved electrode microstructures which delivered a world leading 2,400 mW cm–2. The newly made cell was investigated at different H2 flow rates and the effect of fuel utilization on current densities was analyzed.
Positive perception of pharmacogenetic testing for psychotropic medications
Authors: Lanktree Matthew B. , Zai Gwyneth , VanderBeek Laura E. , Giuffra Daniel E. , Smithson David S. , Kipp Lucas B. , Dalseg Timothy R. , Speechley Mark , Kennedy James L.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Pharmacogenetics attempts to identify inter‐individual genetic differences that are predictive of variable drug response and propensity to side effects, with the prospect of assisting physicians to select the most appropriate drug and dosage for treatment. However, many concerns regarding genetic tests exist. We sought to test the opinions of undergraduate science and medical students in southern Ontario universities toward pharmacogenetic testing.

Methods and Results

Questionnaires were completed by 910 undergraduate medicine and science students from 2005 to 2007. Despite students' concerns that the results of genetic tests may be used for other purposes without consent (71%) or lead to discrimination (78%), an overwhelming number of students were in favor of pharmacogenetic testing (90%).

Discussion

To our knowledge, this study is the first to survey a large sample for their attitude toward pharmacogenetic testing for psychotropic medications. Our results indicate that, although concerns remain and scientific advancements are required, respondents were in support of pharmacogenetic testing for medications used to treat schizophrenia. © 2014 The Authors. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Class II HDACs and Neuronal Regeneration
Authors: Tang Bor Luen
Published: March 2014

The vastly more superior regenerative capacity of the axons of peripheral nerves over central nervous system (CNS) neurons has been partly attributed to the former's intrinsic capacity to initiate and sustain the functionality of a new growth cone. Growth cone generation involves a myriad of processes that centers around the organization of microtubule bundles. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) modulate a wide range of key neuronal processes such as neural progenitor differentiation, learning and memory, neuronal death, and degeneration. HDAC inhibitors have been shown to be beneficial in attenuating neuronal death and promoting neurite outgrowth and axonal regeneration. Recent advances have provided insights on how manipulating HDAC activities, particularly the type II HDACs 5 and 6, which deacetylate tubulin, may benefit axonal regeneration. These advances are discussed herein. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1225–1233, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Signals Controlling Un‐Differentiated States in Embryonic Stem and Cancer Cells: Role of the Phosphatidylinositol 3′ Kinase Pathway
Authors: Voskas Daniel , Ling Ling Sunny , Woodgett James Robert
Published: March 2014

The capacity of embryonic stem (ES) cells to differentiate into cell lineages comprising the three germ layers makes them powerful tools for studying mammalian early embryonic development in vitro. The human body consists of approximately 210 different somatic cell types, the majority of which have limited proliferative capacity. However, both stem cells and cancer cells bypass this replicative barrier and undergo symmetric division indefinitely when cultured under defined conditions. Several signal transduction pathways play important roles in regulating stem cell development, and aberrant expression of components of these pathways is linked to cancer. Among signaling systems, the critical role of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) coupled to the Jak/STAT3 (signal transduction and activation of transcription‐3) pathway in maintaining stem cell self‐renewal has been extensively reviewed. This pathway additionally plays multiple roles in tumorigenesis. Likewise, the phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) pathway has been determined to play an important role in both stem cell maintenance and tumor development. This pathway is often induced in cancer with frequent mutational activation of the catalytic subunit of PI3K or loss of a primary PI3K antagonist, phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN). This review focusses on roles of the PI3K signal transduction pathway components, with emphasis on functions in stem cell maintenance and cancer. Since the PI3K pathway impinges on and collaborates with other signaling pathways in regulating stem cell development and/or cancer, aspects of the canonical Wnt, Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), and TGF‐β signaling pathways are also discussed. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1312–1322, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Degradation of imidazolium‐based ionic liquids in aqueous solution by Fenton oxidation
Authors: Domínguez Carmen M. , Munoz Macarena , Quintanilla Asunción , de Pedro Zahara M. , Ventura Sonia P.M. , Coutinho João A.P. , Casas Jose A. , Rodriguez Juan J.
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

The breakdown of imidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) by Fenton oxidation has been demonstrated, but using unaffordable doses of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The literature studies so far do not report on the evolution of total organic carbon (TOC) and ecotoxicity. Therefore, the potential application of the process for the degradation of ILs still remains an open question. This work investigates the feasibility of the Fenton process for the treatment of aqueous effluents containing imidazolium‐based ILs of different structures, represented by the length of the alkyl chain and the nature of the anion. Special attention is paid to the evolution of the ecotoxicity and the consumption of H2O2 as a critical issue for the economy of the process. The experiments were performed at 70 °C.

RESULTS

With the stoichiometric H2O2 dose, the complete conversion of the starting imidazolium‐based ILs was achieved in less than 5 min, at 70°C, with 60% of TOC reduction after 4 h, except in the [C4mim][CH3CO2] case, where iron precipitation was observed, thus inhibiting its catalytic action. Low ecotoxicity effluents were obtained at the stoichiometric H2O2 dose, even in the cases of the highly ecotoxic ILs of long alkyl chain with chloride anion.

CONCLUSION

Fenton oxidation is shown to be a promising solution for the degradation of imidazolium‐based ILs in water, allowing deep detoxification with the stoichiometric H2O2 dose. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
REVIEW ARTICLE: RESILIENCE, POVERTY AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Béné Christophe , Newsham Andrew , Davies Mark , Ulrichs Martina , Godfrey‐Wood Rachel
Published: March 2014

Resilience has become prominent in academia where it is used as a central framework in disciplines such as ecology, climate change adaptation or urban planning. Policy makers and international development agencies also increasingly refer to it. The objective of this paper is to assess the advantages and limits of resilience in the context of development. Although the review highlights some positive elements—for example, the ability to foster an integrated approach—it also shows that resilience has important limitations. In particular, it is not a pro‐poor concept, in the sense that it does not exclusively apply to, or benefit, the poor. As such, resilience building cannot replace poverty reduction. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence and clinical features of herpes simplex viruses (1 and 2) and varicella‐zoster virus infections in an adult Korean population with aseptic meningitis or encephalitis
Authors: Choi Rihwa , Kim Gyeong‐Moon , Jo Ik Joon , Sim Min Seob , Song Keun Jeong , Kim Byoung Joon , Na Duk L. , Huh Hee Jae , Kim Jong‐Won , Ki Chang‐Seok , Lee Nam Yong
Published: March 2014

Since there are limited data on the incidence and clinical findings of central nervous system (CNS) infection by three α‐herpesviruses including human herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1), HSV‐2 and varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) in Korea, a retrospective analysis of clinical data and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results was performed in patients who presented with suspicion of acute viral meningitis and/or encephalitis at the emergency department of a tertiary referral hospital in Seoul, Korea. During the 3‐year study period, a total of 224 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 224 patients were examined. Among the 224 patients, 135 (60.3%) patients were identified as having aseptic meningitis (n = 70, 51.9%), encephalitis (n = 41, 30.4%) or meningoencephalitis (n = 24, 17.8%) at discharge. Twenty‐four (17.8%) patients were identified as having VZV meningitis (n = 16, 11.9%), VZV meningoencephalitis (n = 2, 1.5%), HSV‐2 meningitis (n = 4, 3.0%), or HSV‐1 encephalitis (n = 2, 1.5%). Of the 24 patients infected with the three herpesviruses, immunocompromised patients accounted for 33.3% (n = 8). Skin rashes were observed in half (n = 9) of the patients with VZV, and none with HSV‐1 or HSV‐2. One patient with VZV meningitis and four patients with brain parenchymal involvement had neurologic sequelae. In conclusion, three herpesviruses are important causative agents of CNS infectious disease with significant morbidity in adults, regardless of the immunologic status. Therefore, CSF should be examined for HSV‐1, HSV‐2, and VZV using sensitive diagnostic methods in all cases of adult patients with clinical manifestations of CNS disease in order to identify the correct etiology and to determine appropriate therapy. J. Med. Virol. 86:957–962, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of pregnancy outcome with cytokine gene polymorphisms in HEV infection during pregnancy
Authors: Devi Salam Gyaneshwori , Kumar Ashok , Kar Premashis , Husain Syed Akhtar , Sharma Shashi
Published: March 2014

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is associated with high maternal and fetal mortalities. The aim of the study was to find cytokine gene polymorphisms in relation to HEV infection during pregnancy. A total of 262 pregnant and 208 non‐pregnant women with hepatitis, 262 healthy pregnant and 208 non‐pregnant women as controls. The study group were pregnant and non‐pregnant women with HEV infection, not infected with HEV and controls. Genotyping was carried out by PCR‐RFLP and ARMS‐PCR methods. The frequencies of TNF‐α −308 A allele & AA genotype, IFN‐γ +874 T allele & TT genotypes were significantly higher in pregnant women with HEV infection compared to other groups. The frequency of TGF‐β1 codon 10 +869 T allele &TT genotype and codon 25 +915 G allele & GG genotype were significantly higher in pregnant women compared to non‐pregnant women with HEV infection. The frequency of IL‐6‐174 GG genotype was significantly higher in pregnant women with HEV infection compared to not infected with HEV and controls. Cytokine gene polymorphisms shows association with preterm delivery (TNF‐α −308 AA, IFN‐γ +874 AA, TGF‐β1 codon 10 +869 TT & codon 25 GG genotypes), low birth weight (TNF‐α −308 GG & IL‐6 −174 CC genotypes), fetal loss (IL‐6‐174 CC genotype), and small for date (IL‐6‐174 CC & TGF‐β1 codon 10 +869 TC genotypes) of HEV infected pregnant women compared to not infected with HEV and controls. These findings suggest that cytokines gene polymorphisms were found to be associated with pregnant women with HEV infection and adverse pregnancy outcome. J. Med. Virol. 86:1366–1376, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modeling the memristor with piecewise linear function
Authors: Mu Xiaomu , Yu Juntang , Wang Shuning
Published: March 2014

Memristor is introduced as the fourth basic circuit element. In this paper, we show that piecewise linear function can be used to model memristor. Piecewise linear function is used as a window function to model the memristor device. The piecewise linear window function is linear at each subregion of the domain. Because of this good character, explicit relation between the thickness of the doped region and the charge can be delivered, together with the explicit memristance expression. Models using a general nonlinear window function may not have these explicit results. The piecewise linear window function is also more flexible than the existing window functions. Piecewise linear function can also be used to model the more general memristive systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atlantic warm and cold water events and impact on African west coast precipitation
Authors: Lutz K. , Jacobeit J. , Rathmann J.
Published: March 2014

Variability of sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the tropical southeast Atlantic Ocean has previously been shown to significantly contribute to changes in summer rainfall along the West African as well as the Angolan coast. This study examines links between southeast Atlantic SST and African west coast precipitation variability for an extended 60‐year period from 1951 to 2010. In contrast to earlier studies, our analyses cover the whole Atlantic coast from Guinea to South Africa and are not limited to specific seasons. In addition to the analyses of the total variability, pronounced anomalies in terms of warm and cold water events and their impact on African west coast precipitation are analyzed. By using for the first time a new comprehensive classification of Atlantic Niño and Niña events, consistent results are achieved for a larger region of Africa, also considering Atlantic cold water events which have rather been neglected so far.

Results show that, depending on the particular region, southeast Atlantic SSTs play an important role for coastal rainfall variability throughout the year. Furthermore, the rainfall response to Atlantic cold and warm water events appears to be asymmetric in season and magnitude. Atlantic cold events can cause a stronger decrease in rainfall along the West African and Gabon coast than the increase is in warm events. In addition, not all seasons show a significant rainfall response to both warm and cold water events.
A single blunt impact on cartilage promotes fibronectin fragmentation and upregulates cartilage degrading stromelysin‐1/matrix metalloproteinase‐3 in a bovine ex vivo model
Authors: Ding Lei , Guo Danping , Homandberg Gene A. , Buckwalter Joseph A. , Martin James A.
Published: March 2014

Post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is characterized by progressive cartilage degeneration in injured joints. Since fibronectin‐fragments (Fn‐fs) degrade cartilage mainly through up‐regulating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, we hypothesized that Fn‐fs play a key role in PTOA by promoting chondrolysis in and around injured cartilage. To test this hypothesis, we profiled the catabolic events focusing on fibronectin fragmentation and proteinase expression in bovine osteochondral explants following a single blunt impact on cartilage with a drop tower device which created partial‐thickness tissue damage. Injured and control explants were cultured for up to 14 days. The presence of Fn‐fs, MMPs (‐1, ‐3, ‐13), ADAMTS‐5 in culture media and in cartilage was determined with immunoblotting. The daily proteoglycan (PG) depletion of cartilage matrix was assessed with DMMB assay. The effect of explant‐conditioned media on chondrocytes was also examined with immunoblotting. Impacted cartilage released significantly higher amount of native Fn, three chondrolytic Fn‐fs and PG than non‐impacted controls did. Those increases coincided with up‐regulation of MMP‐3 both in culture media and in impacted cartilage. These findings support our hypothesis that PTOA may be propelled by Fn‐fs which act as catabolic mediators through up‐regulating cartilage‐damaging proteinases. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:811–818, 2014.
How the root zone modifies soil wettability: Model experiments with alfalfa and wheat
Authors: Hassan Magda , Woche Susanne K. , Bachmann Jörg
Published: March 2014

To investigate the effect of plants on soil water repellency (SWR), two column experiments with wheat (Triticum aestivum) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) with a growing period of three months had been carried out under constant and near‐natural climatic conditions. Model soils with defined wettability were created by mixing a natural sandy loam subsoil with different proportions of a wettable and a hydrophobized pure quartz sand, resulting in a wettable model soil and three model soils with increasing level of subcritical SWR (initial contact angle CA > 0° and < 90°). Results showed a significant decrease of the mean CA after the experiments compared to the initial CA while the mean CA was constant for plant free columns used as a reference. CA as a function of depth in some cases showed a depth dependent variation with decreased CA at the bottom or as well at top and bottom. The deviation from the initial CA was most pronounced for wheat under constant climatic conditions. Changes in CA could be related to changes in pH, i.e., CA was decreased and pH increased. Subcritical WR at the beginning of the growth period affected significantly the moisture content profiles during the entire growing season as well as plant dry mass production. We expect that plant root exudates of plants widely used for foot production cause directly or indirectly pH‐related modifications of the WR level in the root zone dependent on plant species and the ambient climatic conditions.
Nitrogen‐fertilizer forms affect the nitrogen‐use efficiency in fertigated citrus groves
Authors: Quaggio José Antônio , Souza Thais Regina , Bachiega Zambrosi Fernando César , Marcelli Boaretto Rodrigo , Mattos Dirceu
Published: March 2014

The fertigated area of the Brazilian citrus industry has grown rapidly during recent years, and an efficient management of nitrogen (N) application at these sites is required for sustainable citrus production. Therefore, a field trial with Valencia orange trees [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] on Swingle citrumelo rootstock (Citrus paradise Macfad. x Poncirus trifoliata L. Raf.) was conducted for 8 years to evaluate the effects of N rates (80, 160, 240 and 320 kg ha–1 y–1) applied by fertigation, either as ammonium nitrate (AN) or calcium nitrate (CN), on soil solution dynamics, fruit yield, nutritional status, and N‐use efficiency (NUE) of trees. The maximum fruit yield was reached with 240 kg N ha–1 for AN, whereas a linear response and greater fruit yield was observed for N supplied as CN. The NUE was reduced for both N forms with increasing N rates. However, the NUE for CN was 14 to 38% greater than the NUE for AN. The lower fruit yield and NUE for AN compared to CN‐treated trees was associated with the increased acidification of the soil solution with increased AN rates (pH ≤ 4.0). This limited nitrification resulted in a high ammonium (NH$ _4^+ $) concentration in the soil solution and a reduction in the net absorption of cations by the trees, particularly calcium (Ca). Due to the improved ion balance as well as the higher pH of the soil solution (pH ≥ 6.3) and diminished NH$ _4^+ $ availability, gains in both fruit yield and NUE in fertigated citrus groves in tropical soils can be obtained with the use of CN as a source of N.
Active surveillance for clinically localized prostate cancer––A systematic review
Authors: Thomsen Frederik B. , Brasso Klaus , Klotz Laurence H. , Røder M. Andreas , Berg Kasper D. , Iversen Peter
Published: March 2014

Active surveillance (AS) has been introduced as an observational strategy to delay or avoid curative treatment without compromising long‐term cancer‐specific survival. The 10 studies included in this review, published between 2008 and 2013, generally agreed upon patients selection for the AS strategy and how they should be managed within the program. However, uncertainties persists concerning optimal patient selection and reliable progression criteria, as well as the long‐term safety of AS. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:830–835. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermal effects of endoscopy in a human temporal bone model: Implications for endoscopic ear surgery
Authors: Kozin Elliott D. , Lehmann Ashton , Carter Margaret , Hight Ed , Cohen Michael , Nakajima Hideko H. , Lee Daniel J.
Published: March 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Although the theoretical risk of elevated temperatures during endoscopic ear surgery has been reported previously, neither temperature change nor heat distribution associated with the endoscope has been quantified. In this study, we measure temperature changes during rigid middle ear endoscopy in a human temporal bone model and investigate whether suction can act as a significant cooling mechanism.

Study Design

Human temporal bone model of endoscopic middle ear surgery.

Methods

Fresh human temporal bones were maintained at body temperature (∼36°C). Temperature fluctuations were measured as a function of 1) distance between the tip of a 3‐mm 0° Hopkins rod and round window membrane, and 2) intensity of the light source. Infrared imaging determined the thermal gradient. For suction, a 20‐Fr suction catheter was utilized.

Results

We found: 1) an endoscope maximally powered by a xenon or light‐emitting diode light source resulted in a rapid temperature elevation up to 46°C within 0.5 to 1 mm from the tip of the endoscope within 30 to 124 seconds, 2) elevated temperatures occurred up to 8 mm from the endoscope tip; and 3) temperature decreased rapidly within 20 to 88 seconds of turning off the light source or applying suction.

Conclusions

Our findings have direct implications for avoiding excessive temperature elevation in endoscopic ear surgery. We recommend: 1) using submaximal light intensity, 2) frequent repositioning of the endoscope, and 3) removing the endoscope to allow tissue cooling. Use of suction provides rapid cooling of the middle ear space and may be incorporated in the design of new instrumentation for prolonged dissection.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 124:E332–E339, 2014
Controlling the radiation direction of propagating surface plasmons on silver nanowires
Authors: Wang Zhuoxian , Wei Hong , Pan Deng , Xu Hongxing
Published: March 2014

Metal nanowires supporting propagating surface plasmons (SPs) can be used as nanowaveguides and nanoantennas for light manipulation beyond the diffraction limit. Here the control of the propagation and radiation of SPs on silver nanowires is investigated. By covering an Al2O3 layer onto a silver nanowire to change the local dielectric environment, the wave vector of the propagating SPs is increased. Thus, the radiation direction of SPs into the substrate is changed according to the phase matching condition, which is experimentally shown by Fourier imaging method. The radiation angle is sensitively dependent on the Al2O3 thickness. By depositing 1 nm Al2O3, the increase of the radiation angle can be close to 1 degree. These results show that dielectric‐layer‐coating provides a simple and effective method to control the propagation and radiation of SPs, which will be of great importance for designing plasmonic circuits, antennas and sensors based on silver nanowires.
The effect of anterograde persufflation on energy charge and hepatocyte function in donation after cardiac death livers unsuitable for transplant
Authors: Khorsandi Shirin Elizabeth , Jitraruch Suttiruk , Fairbanks Lynette , Cotoi Corina , Jassem Wayel , Vilca-Melendez Hector , Prachalias Andreas , Dhawan Anil , Heaton Nigel , Srinivasan Parthi
Published: March 2014

Donation after cardiac death (DCD) livers are considered to be marginal organs for solid organ and cell transplantation. Low energy charge (EC) and low purine quantity within the liver parenchyma has been associated with poor outcome after liver transplantation. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of anterograde persufflation (A-PSF) using an electrochemical concentrator on DCD liver energy status and hepatocyte function. Organs utilized for research were DCD livers considered not suitable for transplant. Each liver was formally split, and the control non-persufflated (non-PSF) section was stored in University of Wisconsin (UW) solution at 4°C. The A-PSF liver section was immersed in UW solution on ice, and A-PSF was performed via the portal vein with 40% oxygen. Tissue samples were taken 2 hours after A-PSF from the A-PSF and control non-PSF liver sections for snap freezing. Purine analysis was performed with photodiode array detection. Hepatocytes were isolated from A-PSF and control non-PSF liver sections using a standard organs utilized for research were DCD livers considered not suitable for transplant collagenase perfusion technique. Hepatocyte function was assessed using mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity {3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT)} and the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay for cell attachment. In DCD livers with <30% steatosis (n = 6), A-PSF increased EC from 0.197 ± 0.025 to 0.23 ± 0.035 (P = 0.04). In DCD livers with >30% steatosis (n = 4), A-PSF had no beneficial effect. After isolation (n=4, <30% steatosis), A-PSF was found to increase MTT from 0.92 ± 0.045 to 1.19 ± 0.55 (P < 0.001) and SRB from 2.53 ± 0.12 to 3.2 ± 0.95 (P < 0.001). In conclusion, A-PSF can improve the EC and function of isolated hepatocytes from DCD livers with <30% steatosis. Liver Transpl 20:698–704, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Nanofibrillar Peptide Hydrogels for the Immobilization of Biocatalysts for Chemical Transformations
Authors: Hickling Christopher , Toogood Helen S. , Saiani Alberto , Scrutton Nigel S. , Miller Aline F.
Published: March 2014

Enzymes are attractive, “green” alternatives to chemical catalysts within the industrial sector, but their robustness to environmental conditions needs optimizing. Here, an enzyme is tagged chemically and recombinantly with a self‐assembling peptide that allows the conjugate to spontaneously assemble with pure peptide to form β‐sheet‐rich nanofibers decorated with tethered enzyme. Above a critical concentration, these fibers entangle and form a 3D hydrogel. The immobilized enzyme catalyzes chemical transformations and critically its stability is increased significantly where it retains activity after exposure to high temperatures (90 °C) and long storage times (up to 12 months).

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Effect of vegf gene therapy and hyaluronic acid film sheath on peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Zor Fatih , Deveci Mustafa , Kilic Abdullah , Ozdag Mehmet Fatih , Kurt Bulent , Sengezer Mustafa , SÖnmez Tolga Taha
Published: March 2014

Functional nerve regeneration after reconstructive nerve surgery remains unsatisfying. In this study, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene therapy combined with a hyaluronic acid (HA)‐enriched microenvironment in nerve regeneration was investigated. Sciatic nerve was transected, and end‐to‐end neurorrhaphy was performed on 32 male Sprague‐Dawley rats, which were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 per group): nerve coaptation without treatment (group I); nerve coaptation covered with HA film sheath (group II); nerve coaptation with intramuscular VEGF gene in plasmid injection (group III); and nerve coaptation combined with HA film sheath and intramuscular VEGF gene in plasmid injection (group IV). Contralateral sciatic nerves were used as control. VEGF expression was verified from gluteal muscle biopsies surrounding the sciatic nerve by reverse transcriptase‐PCR. Electrophysiological, histopathological, and electron microscopic evaluations were performed after 4 weeks. Mean peak amplitude of groups I–IV and nonoperated sciatic nerve were 4.5 ± 0.6 mV, 6.4 ± 0.4 mV, 6.7 ± 0.5 mV, 8.5 ± 0.4 mV, and 9.8 ± 0.5 mV, respectively. Mean myelinated axonal counts of groups I–IV and nonoperated sciatic nerve were 105 ± 24, 165 ± 19, 181 ± 22, 271 ± 23, and 344 ± 17, respectively. Treatment with HA film sheath coverage combined with intramuscular VEGF gene in plasmid injection yielded statistically significant higher peak amplitudes and myelinated axonal counts (P < 0.001). In addition, significantly less scar formation with HA administration (groups II and IV; P < 0.001) was found. Thus, it was found that VEGF might crucially regulate nerve regeneration processes and that HA can reduce the scar formation. This study showed that the combination of HA film sheath and VEGF gene may synergistically promote peripheral nerve regeneration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:209–216, 2014.
Simultaneous R2*, R2, and R2′ quantification by combining S0 estimation of the free induction decay with a single spin echo: A single acquisition method for R2 insensitive quantification of holmium‐166–loaded microspheres
Authors: van de Maat G. H. , de Leeuw H. , Seevinck P. R. , van den Bosch M. A. A. J. , Nijsen J. F. W. , Bakker C. J. G.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To present a new method, S0 estimation of the free induction decay combined with a single spin echo measurement (SOFIDSE), that enables simultaneous measurements of R2*, R2, and R2′ in order to quantify the local concentration of holmium microspheres (Ho‐MS) for radioembolization.

Theory and Methods

SOFIDSE estimates R2* and the signal magnitude at time point 0, S0, from a multigradient echo readout of the free induction decay and subsequently estimates R2 using S0 and a single spin echo, from which R2′ is deducted. The method was evaluated by comparing SOFIDSE R2 values with values obtained from shifted spin echo (SSE) measurements on a phantom setup containing Ho‐MS and from dual spin echo measurements on a healthy volunteer.

Results

On average, SOFIDSE showed a small overestimation of R2 values compared with SSE independent of the microsphere concentration. R2′ values determined by subtraction of either SOFIDSE R2 or SSE R2 from R2* showed excellent agreement (correlation coefficient = 1; P = 9 · 10−11). The Ho‐MS–induced R2′ values obtained by SOFIDSE were insensitive to the R2 value of the tissue in which they resided.

Conclusion

SOFIDSE enables quantification of Ho‐MS, in media with spatially or temporally varying R2 values, in a single acquisition. Magn Reson Med 73:273–283, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient DG‐like formulation equipped with curved boundary edges for solving elasto‐acoustic scattering problems
Authors: Barucq Hélène , Djellouli Rabia , Estecahandy Elodie
Published: March 2014

A Discontinuous Galerkin (DG)‐based approach is proposed for computing the scattered field from an elastic bounded object immersed in an infinite homogeneous fluid medium. The proposed method possesses two distinctive features. First, it employs higher‐order polynomial‐shape functions needed to address the high‐frequency propagation regime. Second, it is equipped with curved boundary edges to provide an accurate representation of the fluid–structure interface. The most salient benefits resulting from the latter feature, as demonstrated by the numerical investigation, are the following: (i) an improvement by—at least—two orders of magnitude on the relative error and (ii) the disappearance of spurious resonance frequencies in the surrounding fluid medium. In addition, the reported numerical results reveal that when using cubic polynomials with less than three elements per wavelength, the proposed DG method computes the scattered field with a relative error below 1% for an elastic scatterer of about 30 wavelengths. This observation highlights the potential of the proposed solution methodology for efficiently solving mid‐frequency to high‐frequency elasto‐acoustic scattering problems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of bottle‐brush polymer via host−guest self‐assembly between β‐cyclodextrin and adamantane
Authors: Liu Sa , Wang Yanyan , Cai Jie , Ren Li , Wang Lin , Wang Yingjun
Published: March 2014

Supramolecular assemblies with a bottle‐brush structure are obtained by inclusion complexation between β‐cyclodextrin and adamantane. β‐cyclodextrin‐modified chitosan is synthesized via the aldimine condensation reaction between β‐cyclodextrin monoaldehyde and chitosan as the host. The guest is prepared through the esterification reaction between methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) and 1‐adamantanecarboxylic acid chloride. The supramolecular assemblies are formed through the inclusion of adamantane‐modified methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) into the β‐cyclodextrin cavity on the chitosan chain. Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR spectra were used to prove that the host, guest and assemblies were successfully obtained. UV−visible spectra were employed to confirm the formation of assemblies. Furthermore, the size of the particles in the assembled solution, the change before and after self‐assembly, and the effect of the addition of competitive molecules were studied by dynamic light scattering measurements. The results indicate that supramolecular assemblies have formed successfully which might be used to realize the biomimetic structure of the articular cartilage proteoglycan. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Liquid crystals from star‐like clusto‐supramolecular macromolecules
Authors: Li Wen , Wu Lixin
Published: March 2014

Supramolecular liquid crystals containing inorganic nanoclusters represent a promising avenue in the field of liquid crystals. The main motivation for developing these hybrid materials originates from the value‐added combination between functional properties of inorganic nano‐objects and the self‐assembly behavior of organic liquid crystal molecules. This review highlights the recent progress regarding nanocluster‐containing supramolecular liquid crystals. Important factors affecting the liquid crystalline behaviors are systematically described and summarized. The driving forces behind the molecular self‐assembly are discussed in depth. Finally, potential applications of the liquid‐crystalline nanohybrids are discussed. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Reduction of the TiO2–x melting temperature induced by oxygen deficiency with implications on experimental data accuracy and structural transition processes
Authors: Knaup J. M. , Marx J. , Frauenheim T.
Published: March 2014

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Molecular dynamics simulations show a clear reduction of the melting temperature of rutile TiO2 induced by O deficiency. The observed effect is considerably stronger than reported in the experimental literature. This difference may be caused by a lack of knowledge of the O content at the melting point during experiments. In combination with temperature induced reduction, the melting temperature reduction poses questions about the process of Magnéli phase formation in TiO2 memristor devices. Using TiO2 as a model for transition metal oxide ceramics, we propose a mechanism for the flash sintering process.

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Time evolution of the Ti–Ti g (r) at 2500 K at 6.9% and 9,3% O deficiency during MD simulation at the 0 K volume.

(© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Double‐layer channel structure based ZnO thin‐film transistor grown by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Ahn Cheol Hyoun , Kim So Hee , Cho Sung Woon , Yun Myeong Gu , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: March 2014

A double channel structure has been used by depositing a thin amorphous‐AlZnO (a‐AZO) layer grown by atomic layer deposition between a ZnO channel and a gate dielectric to enhance the electrical stability. The effect of the a‐AZO layer on the electrical stability of a‐AZO/ZnO thin‐film transistors (TFTs) has been investigated under positive gate bias and temperature stress test. The use of the a‐AZO layer with 5 nm thickness resulted in enhanced subthreshold swing and decreased Vth shift under positive gate bias/temperature stress. In addition, the falling rate of the oxide TFT using a‐AZO/ ZnO double channel had a larger value (0.35 eV/V) than that of pure ZnO TFT (0.24 eV/V). These results suggest that the interface trap density between dielectric and channel was reduced by inserting a‐AZO layer at the interface between the channel and the gate insulator, compared with pure ZnO channel. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
TaON surface energetics and optical spectra
Authors: Esch Tobit R. , Vidic Jandro , Bredow Thomas
Published: March 2014

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The stabilities and electronic structures of the bulk and several low‐index surfaces of β‐TaON were studied quantum‐chemically at semi‐empirical and hybrid density‐functional level. Excitation spectra of the bulk and surfaces were calculated by using an iterative CIS approach (MSINDO‐CIS). The calculated structure parameters, atomic positions and band gaps for the bulk are compared with experimental data. For comparison we also studied a hypothetical configuration of TaON where the anion ordering is changed. The O/N distribution has a significant effect on the optical spectra and may effect the photocatalytic efficiency of the material. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Direct Synthesis of MOF‐Derived Nanoporous Carbon with Magnetic Co Nanoparticles toward Efficient Water Treatment
Authors: Torad Nagy L. , Hu Ming , Ishihara Shinsuke , Sukegawa Hiroaki , Belik Alexis A. , Imura Masataka , Ariga Katsuhiko , Sakka Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: March 2014

Nanoporous carbon particles with magnetic Co nanoparticles (Co/NPC particles) are synthesized by one‐step carbonization of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67 (ZIF‐67) crystals. After the carbonization, the original ZIF‐67 shapes are preserved well. Fine magnetic Co nanoparticles are well dispersed in the nanoporous carbon matrix, with the result that the Co/NPC particles show a strong magnetic response. The obtained nanoporous carbons show a high surface area and well‐developed graphitized wall, thereby realizing fast molecular diffusion of methylene blue (MB) molecules with excellent adsorption performance. The Co/NPC possesses an impressive saturation capacity for MB dye compared with the commercial activated carbon. Also, the dispersed magnetic Co nanoparticles facilitate easy magnetic separation.
Lab‐on‐a‐Chip‐Based High‐Throughput Screening of the Genotoxicity of Engineered Nanomaterials
Authors: Vecchio Giuseppe , Fenech Michael , Pompa Pier Paolo , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: March 2014

The continuous increasing of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) in our environment, their combinatorial diversity, and the associated genotoxic risks, highlight the urgent need to better define the possible toxicological effects of ENMs. In this context, we present a new high‐throughput screening (HTS) platform based on the cytokinesis‐block micronucleus (CBMN) assay, lab‐on‐chip cell sorting, and automated image analysis. This HTS platform has been successfully applied to the evaluation of the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silica nanoparticles (SiO2NPs). In particular, our results demonstrate the high cyto‐ and genotoxicity induced by AgNPs and the biocompatibility of SiO2NPs, in primary human lymphocytes. Moreover, our data reveal that the toxic effects are also dependent on size, surface coating, and surface charge. Most importantly, our HTS platform shows that AgNP‐induced genotoxicity is lymphocyte sub‐type dependent and is particularly pronounced in CD2+ and CD4+ cells.
A General Route Towards Defect and Pore Engineering in Graphene
Authors: Xie Guibai , Yang Rong , Chen Peng , Zhang Jing , Tian Xuezeng , Wu Shuang , Zhao Jing , Cheng Meng , Yang Wei , Wang Duoming , He Congli , Bai Xuedong , Shi Dongxia , Zhang Guangyu
Published: March 2014

Defect engineering in graphene is important for tailoring graphene's properties thus applicable in various applications such as porous membranes and ultra‐capacitors. In this paper, we report a general route towards defect‐ and pore‐ engineering in graphene through remote plasma treatments. Oxygen plasma irradiation was employed to create homogenous defects in graphene with controllable density from a few to ≈103 (μm−2). The created defects can be further enlarged into nanopores by hydrogen plasma anisotropic etching with well‐defined pore size of a few nm or above. The achieved smallest nanopores are ≈2 nm in size, showing the potential for ultra‐small graphene nanopores fabrication.
Impact and Evolution of Technology in College Unions
Authors: Taylor John , Steele Rich
Published: March 2014

This chapter examines how college union professionals can keep up with changes in technology and address student expectations regarding information technology.
Preparing College Unions for the Future Through Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
Authors: De Sawal Danielle M. , Yakaboski Tamara
Published: March 2014

This chapter calls for more intentional use and design of assessment, evaluation, and research about the topics and trends in colleges unions highlighted in this volume.
Perceived Influence and Friendship as Antecedents of Cooperation in Top Management Teams: A Network Approach
Authors: Rank Olaf N. , Tuschke Anja
Published: March 2014

Using the relational dyad as unit of analysis this study examines the effects of perceived influence and friendship ties on the formation and maintenance of cooperative relationships between corporate top executives. Specifically, it is argued that perceived influence as well as friendship ties between any two managers will enhance the likelihood that these managers collaborate with each other. Additionally, a negative interaction effect between perceived influence and friendship on cooperation is proposed. The empirical analyses draw on network data that have been collected among all members of the top two organizational levels for the strategy-making process in two multinational firms headquartered in Germany. Applying logistic regression based on QAP the empirical results support our hypotheses on the direct effects between perceived influence, friendship ties, and cooperative relationships in both companies. In addition, we find at least partial support for our assumption that perceived influence and friendship interact negatively with respect to their effect on cooperation. Seemingly, perceived influence is partially substituted by managerial friendship ties.