bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bortezomib treatment for severe refractory anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis
Authors: Shin Yong‐Won , Lee Soon‐Tae , Kim Tae‐Joon , Jun Jin‐Sun , Chu Kon
Published: March 2018

Objective

To evaluate the therapeutic potential of bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor that target plasma cells, in order to revive stalled recovery in patients with anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis who remain bedridden even after aggressive immunotherapy.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled patients with anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis who remained bedridden after first‐line immunotherapy (steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin), second‐line immunotherapy (rituximab), and tocilizumab treatment, and treated them with subcutaneous bortezomib. Clinical response, functional recovery, and changes in antibody titer in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid were measured.

Results

Before the bortezomib treatment, the five patients with severe refractory anti‐NMDA receptor encephalitis were in a vegetative state. During the 8 months of follow‐up period, three patients improved to minimally conscious states within 2 months of bortezomib treatment, one failed to improve from a vegetative state. However, no patient achieved functional recovery as measured by the modified Rankin Scale score (mRS). Three patients advanced to a cyclophosphamide with bortezomib and dexamethasone regimen, which only resulted in additional adverse events, without mRS improvement. Among the four patients whose antibody titer was followed, two demonstrated a twofold decrease in the antibody titer in serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid after 2 cycles of bortezomib.

Interpretation

Although there were some improvements in severe refractory patients, clinical response to bortezomib was limited and not clearly distinguishable from the natural course of the disease. The clinical benefit of bortezomib in recent studies requires further validation in different clinical settings.
An Earth‐Abundant Catalyst‐Based Seawater Photoelectrolysis System with 17.9% Solar‐to‐Hydrogen Efficiency
Authors: Hsu Shao‐Hui , Miao Jianwei , Zhang Liping , Gao Jiajian , Wang Hongming , Tao Huabing , Hung Sung‐Fu , Vasileff Anthony , Qiao Shi Zhang , Liu Bin
Published: March 2018

The implementation of water splitting systems, powered by sustainable energy resources, appears to be an attractive strategy for producing high‐purity H2 in the absence of the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, the high cost, impractical operating conditions, and unsatisfactory efficiency and stability of conventional methods restrain their large‐scale development. Seawater covers 70% of the Earth's surface and is one of the most abundant natural resources on the planet. New research is looking into the possibility of using seawater to produce hydrogen through electrolysis and will provide remarkable insight into sustainable H2 production, if successful. Here, guided by density functional theory (DFT) calculations to predict the selectivity of gas‐evolving catalysts, a seawater‐splitting device equipped with affordable state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalysts composed of earth‐abundant elements (Fe, Co, Ni, and Mo) is demonstrated. This device shows excellent durability and specific selectivity toward the oxygen evolution reaction in seawater with near 100% Faradaic efficiency for the production of H2 and O2. Powered by a single commercial III–V triple‐junction photovoltaic cell, the integrated system achieves spontaneous and efficient generation of high‐purity H2 and O2 from seawater at neutral pH with a remarkable 17.9% solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency.
A Direct Method to Access Substituted Pyreno[4,5‐c:9,10‐c′] difuran and its Analogues
Authors: Chen Wangqiao , Long Guankui , Kanehira Koji , Zhang Mingtao , Michinobu Tsuyoshi , Liu Ming , Zhang Qichun
Published: March 2018

In this research, pyreno[4,5‐c:9,10‐c′]difuran and its analogues have been successfully synthesized through a one‐step reaction using the same precursor and their physicochemical properties were studied. UV/Vis, fluorescence and CV measurements illustrated that the inserted chalcogen atoms (O, S and Se) brought almost no change on the photochemical and electrochemical properties whereas TM‐2N‐CH3 exhibited more blue‐shifted fluorescence emission and simultaneously elevated HOMO energy level.
Gorilla endoscopic sinus surgery: a life‐saving collaboration between human and veterinary medicine
Authors: Davis Greg E. , Baik Fred M. , Liddell Robert M. , Ayars Andrew G. , Branch Kelley R. , Pottinger Paul S. , Hillel Allen D. , Helmick Kelly , Collins Darin
Published: March 2018

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis is a common disease process in humans; however, in the primate population of gorillas, it has rarely been described. This case describes lifesaving sinus surgery on a critically ill gorilla performed by a human otolaryngology team in collaboration with the gorilla's veterinary medicine team.

Methods

The 35‐year‐old western silverback gorilla was treated for 3 months with aggressive medical therapy for a worsening sinus infection. When his condition became severe, a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed showing advanced chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps vs other masses and some bone erosion. As his condition deteriorated further, a tertiary otolaryngology team performed sinus surgery using the latest technology available, including image guidance, steroid‐eluting sinus stents, and balloon sinus dilation. The postoperative course was complicated by subcutaneous infection and eventual fistulization. Fortunately, with culture‐directed antibiotic therapy his condition gradually improved. One year later he required revision sinus surgery. At that point allergy testing was performed followed by appropriate allergy medical therapy. Now, 3 years out from his initial surgery, he continues to do well and has fathered a young female gorilla.

Results

This case represents a unique collaboration between human physicians and veterinarians. The combined medical approach was critical to heal this ailing gorilla. This case discusses many of the challenges and offers recommendations for physicians who may be involved with similar care of animals in the future.

Conclusion

The success of the surgical and medical treatment of this gorilla's life‐threatening sinus infection required many experts, careful planning, and corporate generosity. The interaction between human and animal medicine would not have been successful without the close and trusting collaborations between human and veterinary health providers. We encourage human healthcare providers to seek volunteer opportunities through their local zoos by engaging in discussions with their local veterinarians.
Formation of Aminocyclopentadienes from Silyldihydropyridines: Ring Contractions Driven by Anion Stabilization
Authors: Walker Morgan M. , Chen Shuming , Mercado Brandon Q. , Houk K. N. , Ellman Jonathan A.
Published: March 2018

Highly functionalized aminocyclopentadienes can be formed through the rearrangement of anions generated from readily prepared 6‐silyl‐1,2‐dihydropyridines by desilylation with fluoride. The scope and generality of the reaction was defined, and diverse transformations were performed on the highly functionalized products. A mechanism and driving force for the rearrangement were identified from experiments and DFT calculations.
Coordination‐Driven Self‐Assembly of a Molecular Knot Comprising Sixteen Crossings
Authors: Kim Dong Hwan , Singh Nem , Oh Jihun , Kim Eun‐Hee , Jung Jaehoon , Kim Hyunuk , Chi Ki‐Whan
Published: March 2018

Molecular knots have become highly attractive to chemists because of their prospective properties in mimicking biomolecules and machines. Only a few examples of molecular knots from the billions tabulated by mathematicians have been realized and molecular knots with more than eight crossings have not been reported to date. We report here the coordination‐driven [8+8] self‐assembly of a higher‐generation molecular knot comprising as many as sixteen crossings. Its solid‐state X‐ray crystal structure and multinuclear 2D NMR findings confirmed its architecture and topology. The formation of this molecular knot appears to depend on the functionalities and geometries of donor and acceptor in terms of generating appropriate angles and strong π‐π interactions supported by hydrophobic effects. This study shows coordination‐driven self‐assembly offers a powerful potential means of synthesizing more and more complicated molecular knots and of understanding differences between the properties of knotted and unknotted structures.
Direct Synthesis of a Covalently Self‐Assembled Peptide Nanogel from a Tyrosine‐Rich Peptide Monomer and Its Biomineralized Hybrids
Authors: Min Kyoung‐Ik , Kim Dong‐Hwi , Lee Hyune‐Jea , Lin Liwei , Kim Dong‐Pyo
Published: March 2018

There has been significant progress in the self‐assembly of biological materials, but the one‐step covalent peptide self‐assembly for well‐defined nanostructures is still in its infancy. Inspired by the biological functions of tyrosine, a covalently assembled fluorescent peptide nanogel is developed by a ruthenium‐mediated, one‐step photo‐crosslinking of tyrosine‐rich short peptides under the visible light within 6 minutes. The covalently assembled peptide nanogel is stable in various organic solvents and different pH levels, unlike those made from vulnerable non‐covalent assemblies. The semipermeable peptide nanogel with a high density of redox‐active tyrosine acts as a novel nano‐bioreactor, allowing the formation of uniform metal–peptide hybrids by selective biomineralization under UV irradiation. As such, this peptide nanogel could be useful in the design of novel nanohybrids and peptidosomes possessing functional nanomaterials.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 2‐Deoxyglycosides from Glycals by Visible‐Light‐Induced Photoacid Catalysis
Authors: Zhao Gaoyuan , Wang Ting
Published: March 2018

The direct, photoacid‐catalyzed synthesis of 2‐deoxyglycosides from glycals is reported. A series of phenol‐conjugated acridinium‐based organic photoacids were rationally designed, synthesized, and studied alongside the commercially available phenolic catalyst eosin Y. In the presence of such a photoacid catalyst and light, synthetic glycals were activated and coupled with a range of alcohols to afford 2‐deoxyglycosides in good yields and with excellent α‐selectivity.
Carbon Quantum Dot Implanted Graphite Carbon Nitride Nanotubes: Excellent Charge Separation and Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Yang , Liu Xueqin , Liu Jia , Han Bo , Hu Xiaoqin , Yang Fan , Xu Zuwei , Li Yinchang , Jia Songru , Li Zhen , Zhao Yanli
Published: March 2018

Graphite carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) is a promising candidate for photocatalytic hydrogen production, but only shows moderate activity owing to sluggish photocarrier transfer and insufficient light absorption. Herein, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) implanted in the surface plane of g‐C3N4 nanotubes were synthesized by thermal polymerization of freeze‐dried urea and CQDs precursor. The CQD‐implanted g‐C3N4 nanotubes (CCTs) could simultaneously facilitate photoelectron transport and suppress charge recombination through their specially coupled heterogeneous interface. The electronic structure and morphology were optimized in the CCTs, contributing to greater visible light absorption and a weakened barrier of the photocarrier transfer. As a result, the CCTs exhibited efficient photocatalytic performance under light irradiation with a high H2 production rate of 3538.3 μmol g−1 h−1 and a notable quantum yield of 10.94 % at 420 nm.
Bridging the divide: Social–ecological coherence in Marine Protected Area network design
Authors: Rees Sian E. , Pittman Simon J. , Foster Nicola , Langmead Olivia , Griffiths Charly , Fletcher Steve , Johnson David E. , Attrill Martin
Published: March 2018

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and networks of MPAs are being implemented globally as a spatial management tool for achieving conservation objectives. There has been considerable progress in reaching the prescribed 10% protected area target for 2020, outlined in the Convention on Biological Diversity Aichi Target 11 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14.

The application of MPA network design principles (e.g. Representative, ecological connectivity), which underpin ecological coherence, is still lacking or insufficient in many regions. Poor ecological coherence hinders the ecological performance of MPA networks, leading to dysfunction in the flow of ecosystem services and reduced ecosystem benefits, with potentially negative consequences for human well‐being.

This paper presents four pivotal focus points for future progress that can bridge the gap between ecological and social systems. The aim is to shift the discourse of ‘ecological coherence’ further into the social sphere, and hence support the alignment of the process of designating ecologically coherent MPA networks with the ‘triple bottom line’ of economic development, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion, as described in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), to achieve social–ecological coherence in MPA network design.
Soy Phytoestrogens Do Not Fully Reverse Changes in Rat Pituitary Castration Cells: Unbiased Stereological Study
Authors: Nestorović Nataša , Trifunović Svetlana , Manojlović‐Stojanoski Milica , Jarić Ivana , Ristić Nataša , Filipović Branko , Šošić‐Jurjević Branka , Milošević Verica
Published: March 2018

The aim of the study was to examine the potential of the principal soy isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, or isoflavone rich soy extract to recover pituitary castration cells in orchidectomized adult male rats in comparison with the effects of estradiol. Two weeks post orchidectomy (Orx), animals received estradiol‐dipropionate, genistein, daidzein or soy extract subcutaneously for 3 weeks. Control sham‐operated (So) and Orx rats received just the vehicle. Changes in the volumes of pars distalis, of individual follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) containing cells, their volume, numerical density and number were determined by unbiased design‐based stereology. The intracellular content of βFSH and βLH was estimated by relative intensity of fluorescence (RIF). Orchidectomy increased all examined stereological parameters and RIF. Compared to Orx, estradiol increased the volume of pars distalis, but reversed RIF and all morphometric parameters of gonadotropes to the level of So rats, except their number. Treatments with purified isoflavones and soy extract decreased RIF to the control So level, expressing an estradiol‐like effect. However, the histological appearance and morphometrical features of gonadotropes did not follow this pattern. Genistein increased the volume of pars distalis, decreased the volume density of LH‐labeled cells and raised the number of gonadotropes. Daidzein decreased the cell volume of gonadotropic cells but increased their number and numerical density. Soy extract induced an increase in number and numerical density of FSH‐containing cells. Therefore, it can be concluded that soy phytoestrogens do not fully reverse the Orx‐induced changes in pituitary castration cells. Anat Rec, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selection of reference genes for tissue/organ samples on day 3 fifth‐instar larvae in silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Wang Genhong , Chen Yanfei , Zhang Xiaoying , Bai Bingchuan , Yan Hao , Qin Daoyuan , Xia Qingyou
Published: March 2018

The silkworm, Bombyx mori, is one of the world's most economically important insect. Surveying variations in gene expression among multiple tissue/organ samples will provide clues for gene function assignments and will be helpful for identifying genes related to economic traits or specific cellular processes. To ensure their accuracy, commonly used gene expression quantification methods require a set of stable reference genes for data normalization. In this study, 24 candidate reference genes were assessed in 10 tissue/organ samples of day 3 fifth‐instar B. mori larvae using geNorm and NormFinder. The results revealed that, using the combination of the expression of BGIBMGA003186 and BGIBMGA008209 was the optimum choice for normalizing the expression data of the B. mori tissue/organ samples. The most stable gene, BGIBMGA003186, is recommended if just one reference gene is used. Moreover, the commonly used reference gene encoding cytoplasmic actin was the least appropriate reference gene of the samples investigated. The reliability of the selected reference genes was further confirmed by evaluating the expression profiles of two cathepsin genes. Our results may be useful for future studies involving the quantification of relative gene expression levels of different tissue/organ samples in B. mori.
An Autoimmune Basis for Raynaud's Phenomenon
Authors: Ascherman D. P. , Zang Y. , Fernandez I. , Clark E. S. , Khan W. N. , Martinez L. , Greidinger E. L.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is common in anti‐RNP–positive patients with rheumatic diseases but is not itself known to be caused by autoimmunity. The aim of this study was to assess autoantibodies that could mediate this process.

Methods

Antibodies derived from patient sera and from murine models of anti‐RNP autoimmunity were screened for the ability to induce RP‐like tissue ischemia and endothelial cell apoptosis in murine models and in vitro systems.

Results

RNP‐positive sera from RP patients and murine sera from RNP‐positive B cell adoptive transfer recipients induced RP‐like tissue ischemia and endothelial cell apoptosis. Proteomic analysis identified cytokeratin 10 (K10) as a candidate autoantigen in RP. Monoclonal anti‐K10 antibodies reproduced patterns of ischemic tissue loss and endothelial cell apoptosis; K10 knockout or depletion of anti‐K10 activity in serum was protective. Cold exposure enhanced K10 expression and in vivo tissue loss.

Conclusion

Anti‐K10 antibodies are sufficient to mediate RP‐like ischemia in murine models and are implicated in the pathogenesis of RP in patients with anti‐RNP autoimmunity.
Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Palladium‐Catalyzed Dearomative [3+2] Cycloaddition of 3‐Nitroindoles
Authors: Suo Jia‐Jia , Liu Wei , Du Juan , Ding Chang‐Hua , Hou Xue‐Long
Published: March 2018

Diastereo‐ and enantioselective cycloaddition of 3‐nitroindoles with vinyl aziridine was realized under Pd‐catalysis using commercially available Walphos as the ligand, affording pyrroloindolines in high yields with high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities. The reaction can be scaled up to a gram scale and the reaction products are easily converted to amino pyrroloindoline and other pyrroloindoline derivatives.
Bridging the gap between cognitive and interpersonal variables in depression
Authors: D'Iuso Debora A. , Dobson Keith S. , Watkins‐Martin Kia , Beaulieu Leah , Drapeau Martin
Published: March 2018

Background

Cognitive and interpersonal variables are often understood to be related to the etiology and maintenance of major depression. However, few studies have examined the relationship between these two constructs.

Aim

This study examined the association between cognitive errors (CEs) most commonly endorsed among individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and their interpersonal functioning.

Method

These processes were examined early in psychotherapy and at the end of 20 sessions of cognitive behavioral therapy for depression. Therapy transcripts of 42 clients with MDD were rated for CEs using the Cognitive Error Rating Scale (CERS: Drapeau, Perry & Dunkley, 2008) and for interpersonal behaviors using the Structural Analysis of Social Behavior (SASB: Benjamin & Cushing, 2000).

Findings

Results of this study revealed significant associations between CEs and interpersonal behaviors early in treatment and at the end of treatment. Implications of these findings are discussed in the context of improving psychotherapy process and outcome.
The CNPY2 enhances epithelial‐mesenchymal transition via activating the AKT/GSK3β pathway in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Dou Yu , Lei Jun‐Qiang , Guo Shun‐Lin , Zhao Da , Yue Hong‐Mei , Yu Qin
Published: March 2018

The survival of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poor due to high metastasis, and the indispensable step of metastasis includes epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). In the study, by analyzing the dataset of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we found that the expression of Canopy homolog 2 (CNPY2) is increased both in adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which is further confirmed in NSCLC tissues. Not only that, there is a negative correlation between CNPY2 and E‐cadherin expression at mRNA level. Wound healing and transwell matrix penetration assay showed that overexpression of CNPY2 promotes the capability for invasion and metastasis of NSCLC cells. Further analysis uncovered that overexpression of CNPY2 can activate the AKT/GSK3β pathway, which leads to the inactivation of GSK‐3β. The inactivation of GSK‐3β increases the level of Snail, and then decreases the expression of E‐cadherin to promote EMT. Eventually, inhibition of AKT suppresses the malignant transformation of CNPY2‐upregulated cells. The above results suggest that CNPY2 may be served as a novel therapeutic target to therapy the NSCLC.
The impact of coronary chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention upon donor vessel fractional flow reserve and instantaneous wave‐free ratio: Implications for physiology‐guided PCI in patients with CTO
Authors: Mohdnazri Shah R. , Karamasis Grigoris V. , Al‐Janabi Firas , Cook Christopher M. , Hampton‐Till James , Zhang Jufen , Al‐Lamee Rasha , Dungu Jason N. , Gedela Swamy , Tang Kare H. , Kelly Paul A. , Davies Justin E. , Davies John R. , Keeble Thomas R.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To investigate the immediate and short term impact of right coronary artery (RCA) chronic total coronary occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) upon collateral donor vessel fractional flow reserve (FFR) and instantaneous wave‐free ratio (iFR).

Background

CTO PCI influences collateral donor vessel physiology, making the indication and/or timing of donor vessel revascularization difficult to determine.

Methods

In patients with RCA CTO, FFR, iFR, and collateral function index (FFRcoll) were measured in LAD and LCx pre‐CTO PCI, immediately post and at 4 month follow‐up.

Results

34 patients underwent successful PCI. In the predominant donor vessel immediately post PCI, FFR, and FFRcoll did not change (0.76 ± 0.12 to 0.75 ± 0.13, P = 0.267 and 0.31 ± 0.10 vs. 0.34 ± 0.11, P = 0.078), but iFR increased significantly (0.86 ± 0.10 to 0.88 ± 0.10, P = 0.012). At follow‐up, there was a significant increase in predominant donor FFR and iFR (0.76 ± 0.12 to 0.79 ± 0.11, P = 0.047 and 0.86 ± 0.10 to 0.90 ± 0.07, P = 0.003), accompanied by a significant reduction in FFRcoll (0.31 ± 0.10 to 0.18 ± 0.07 P < 0.0001). These changes resulted in a reclassification of the predominant donor vessel from ischemic to nonischemic in 18% (FFR) and 25% (iFR) of the cases, respectively.

Conclusions

Successful recanalization of an RCA CTO resulted in a modest but statistically significant increase in the predominant donor vessel immediately post CTO PCI in the case of iFR and at 4‐month follow‐up for FFR and iFR compared to pre‐PCI with a concomitant reduction in collateral function.
Synthesis of (E)‐2‐Alkenylazaarenes via Dehydrogenative Coupling of (Hetero)aryl‐fused 2‐Alkylcyclic Amines and Aldehydes with a Cobalt Nanocatalyst
Authors: Zhou Changjian , Tan Zhenda , Jiang Huanfeng , Zhang Min
Published: March 2018

To date, the synthesis of (E)‐2‐alkenylazaarenes via the condensation of 2‐methyl N‐heteroarenes with aldehydes or their equivalents has been well demonstrated. However, the direct formation of such a class of useful compounds from extensively distributed 2‐alkylcyclic amine motifs remains an unresolved goal. Herein, by employing the nitrogen‐silica‐doped carbon (Vulcan XC‐72R) as the support, we have developed a low‐loading cobalt nanocatalyst (Co/N‐Si‐C). The combination of such a catalyst with p‐nitrobenzoic acid and molecular O2 exhibits excellent catalytic performance towards the dehydrogenative coupling of (hetero)aryl‐fused 2‐alkylcyclic amines with aldehydes to afford the (E)‐2‐alkenylazaarenes. In the reaction, effective capture of the partially dehydrogenated cyclic amine motifs appears to be the key strategy to address the issue of the chemoselectivity. The developed catalytic transformation proceeds with the merits of broad substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, high atom‐efficiency, use of an earth‐abundant and reusable cobalt catalyst and molecular O2 as a green oxidant, which offers an important basis for the direct conversion of inert cyclic amine units into the functional frameworks.
Bifunctional Squaramide Organocatalysts for the Asymmetric Addition of Formaldehyde tert‐Butylhydrazone to Simple Aldehydes
Authors: Matador Esteban , de Gracia Retamosa María , Monge David , Iglesias‐Sigüenza Javier , Fernández Rosario , Lassaletta José M.
Published: March 2018

The nucleophilic addition of formaldehyde tert‐butylhydrazone to simple aldehydes (a formal hetero‐carbonyl–ene reaction) can be performed with good reactivity and excellent enantioselectivity by virtue of the dual hydrogen‐bonding activation exerted by amide–squaramide organocatalysts. The resulting hydroxydiazenes (azo alcohols) were isolated in high yields as enantiomerically enriched azoxy compounds after a regioselective azo‐to‐azoxy transformation. Subsequent derivatization provides an entry to relevant amino alcohols, oxazolidinones, and derivatives thereof.
Fullerene‐Based Materials as Hole‐Transporting/Electron‐Blocking Layers: Applications in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Völker Sebastian F. , Vallés‐Pelarda Marta , Pascual Jorge , Collavini Silvia , Ruipérez Fernando , Zuccatti Elisabetta , Hueso Luis E. , Tena‐Zaera Ramón , Mora‐Seró Iván , Delgado Juan Luis
Published: March 2018

Here we report for the first time an efficient fullerene‐based compound, FU7, able to act as hole‐transporting material (HTM) and electron blocking contact. It has been applied on perovskite solar cells (PSCs), obtaining 0.81 times the efficiency of PSCs with the standard HTM, spiro‐OMeTAD, with the additional advantage that this performance is reached without any additive introduced in the HTM layer. Moreover, as a proof of concept, we have described for the first time efficient PSCs in which both selective contacts are fullerene derivatives, to obtain unprecedented “fullerene sandwich” PSCs.
Use of neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio for risk stratification and relationship with time in therapeutic range in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A pilot study
Authors: Cosansu Kahraman , Vatan Mehmet Bulent , Gunduz Huseyin , Akdemir Ramazan
Published: March 2018

Background

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common abnormal heart rhythms. Neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has emerged as a potential marker for the level of inflammation in cardiac disorders.

Hypothesis

NLR might be associated with thrombosis and bleeding risk scores and might predict cardioembolic risk in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients within the therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR).

Methods

We enrolled 272 patients taking warfarin for NVAF and classified them into 2 groups: Group A consisted of patients (n = 132) whose time in therapeutic range (TTR) was ≥65%, and Group B comprised patients (n = 139) whose TTR was <65%.

Results

NLR values were higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.0001). Patients classified as high risk according to CHA2DS2‐VASc score had significantly higher NLR levels (P = 0.002) than those classified as low and intermediate risk. Furthermore, NLR levels were significantly correlated with CHA2DS2‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0001, respectively). NLR predicted patients within therapeutic INR range (TTR ≥65%) with sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 71% in a receiver operator characteristic curve analysis, using a cutoff value of 2.17. Area under the curve for NLR was 0.81 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study showing correlation of NLR with both CHA2DS2‐VASc and HAS‐BLED risk scores. NLR might represent a useful marker to identify patients with high risks of stroke and bleeding and may have predictive value in identifying patients within the therapeutic INR range.
Stem‐cell therapy in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction with reduced ejection fraction: A multicenter, double‐blind randomized trial
Authors: Nicolau José C. , Furtado Remo H.M. , Silva Suzana A. , Rochitte Carlos E. , Rassi Anis , Moraes João B.M.C. , Quintella Edgard , Costantini Costantino R. , Korman Adrian P.M. , Mattos Marco A. , Castello Hélio J. , Caixeta Adriano , Dohmann Hans F.R. , de Carvalho Antonio C.C. ,   on behalf of the MiHeart/AMI Investigators
Published: March 2018

Background

Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is a major determinant of long‐term prognosis after ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). STEMI patients with reduced LVEF have a poor prognosis, despite successful reperfusion and the use of renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone inhibitors.

Hypothesis

Intracoronary infusion of bone marrow–derived mononuclear cells (BMMC) may improve LVEF in STEMI patients successfully reperfused.

Methods

The main inclusion criteria for this double‐blind, randomized, multicenter study were patient age 30 to 80 years, LVEF ≤50%, successful angioplasty of infarct‐related artery, and regional dysfunction in the infarct‐related area analyzed before cell injection. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess LVEF, left ventricular volumes, and infarct size at 7 to 9 days and 6 months post–myocardial infarction.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐one patients were included (66 patients in the BMMC group and 55 patients in the placebo group). The primary endpoint, mean LVEF, was similar between both groups at baseline (44.63% ± 10.74% vs 42.23% ± 10.33%; P = 0.21) and at 6 months (44.74% ± 12.95 % vs 43.50 ± 12.43%; P = 0.59). The groups were also similar regarding the difference between baseline and 6 months (0.11% ± 8.5% vs 1.27% ± 8.93%; P = 0.46). Other parameters of left ventricular remodeling, such as systolic and diastolic volumes, as well as infarct size, were also similar between groups.

Conclusions

In this randomized, multicenter, double‐blind trial, BMMC intracoronary infusion did not improve left ventricular remodeling or decrease infarct size.
Mechanisms of change: Stakeholder Engagement in the Australian Resource Sector through CSR
Authors: Fordham Anne Elizabeth , Robinson Guy M.
Published: March 2018

The study sought to draw new perspectives on how corporate social responsibility (CSR) is shaped and created within the resource sector. The study focused on examining the role of external stakeholders in influencing the CSR strategies implemented by Australian resource companies. Data were gathered by semi‐structured interviews with key stakeholders involved with 25 resource companies located in South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory.

Consistent with sociological theories of CSR, stakeholders such as business and community leaders, non‐government organizations (NGOs), and government employees were able to influence CSR by empowering communities to participate in CSR, bridging cultural divides between companies and communities, and linking companies to key society standards. This was facilitated by the expression of personal ethical values and knowledge sets by stakeholders and where relevant those of their organization.

A range of stakeholders were active agents of change, bringing in new ideology, skills, and expertise, and, at times, challenging existing corporate practice. This process was underlined by relationship building and trust. Stakeholders effectively introduced higher ethical values to concepts of public accountability, environmental sustainability, and social justice in line with personal and organizational ethics.

The study also identified factors which promoted stakeholder influence and gave stakeholders power within CSR. This included a range of institutional‐level factors such as regulatory and legal frameworks, company policy, and cultures, but also interpersonal skills and abilities of the individuals involved.

The study highlights the strategic benefits of stakeholder involvement in CSR within the Australian resource sector and discusses implications for the broader resource industry. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
The effect of ethical climate and employees' organizational citizenship behavior on U.S. fashion retail organizations' sustainability performance
Authors: Lee Stacy H.N. , Ha‐Brookshire Jung
Published: March 2018

To support businesses' efforts to improve sustainability performance, the role of employees should not be neglected, as organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) can improve the effectiveness and flexibility of a business as a whole. Given the potential impact of OCB on organizations' performance, this study investigated how the role of employees' OCB can help to achieve the triple bottom line of sustainability‐financial, social and environmental performance. Using U.S. fashion retail employees as the sampling framework, a total of 278 datasets were used to test the hypothesized relationship. The results showed that the ethical climate of an organization indeed positively affects employees' OCB, consistent with previous studies in non‐fashion retail organizations. Regardless of the size of the organization, the role of employees on the organization's overall sustainability performance was found to be highly important. These findings suggest that businesses should consider ethical climate to enhance sustainability through employees' OCB.
A Low‐Energy‐Gap Thienochrysenocarbazole Dye for Highly Efficient Mesoscopic Titania Solar Cells: Understanding the Excited State and Charge Carrier Dynamics
Authors: Wang Junting , Xie Xinrui , Weng Guorong , Yuan Yi , Zhang Jing , Wang Peng
Published: March 2018

Maintaining both a high external quantum efficiency and a large open‐circuit photovoltage of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is a crucial challenge in the process of developing narrow‐energy‐gap dyes for the capture of infrared solar photons. Herein, we report two donor–acceptor organic dyes, C294 and C295, with a polycyclic heteroaromatic unit, 6,11‐dihydrothieno[3′,2′:8,9]chryseno[10,11,12,1‐bcdefg]carbazole (TCC), as the central module of the electron donor, and ethylbenzothiadiazole‐benzioc acid as the electron acceptor. The interfacial charge recombination was successfully mitigated by introducing an additional branched aliphatic chain in C295. Furthermore, the O⋅⋅⋅S nonbonding interaction between the oxygen atom of the alkoxy group and the sulfur atom of the thiophene in C295 controlled the conformation of C295, resulting in a narrow energy‐gap. Time‐resolved spectroscopic measurements on C294 and the model dye C272 indicated that the elevation of the HOMO energy level decreased the kinetics and yield of hole injection owing to a reduction in the driving force and that the shortened excited‐state lifetime caused by the narrowing of the energy gap was unfavorable for electron injection. By fine tuning the composition of the electrolyte, C294 and C295 eventually achieved high power conversion efficiencies of 11.5 % and 12.4 %, respectively, under full sunlight of air mass 1.5 global conditions.
Neurotensin and neurotensin receptor 1 mRNA expression in song‐control regions changes during development in male zebra finches
Authors: Merullo Devin P. , Asogwa Chinweike N. , Sanchez‐Valpuesta Miguel , Hayase Shin , Pattnaik Bikash R. , Wada Kazuhiro , Riters Lauren V.
Published: March 2018

Learned vocalizations are important for communication in some vertebrate taxa. The neural circuitry for the learning and production of vocalizations is well known in songbirds, many of which learn songs initially during a critical period early in life. Dopamine is essential for motor learning, including song learning, and dopamine‐related measures change throughout development in song‐control regions such as HVC, the lateral magnocellular nucleus of the anterior nidopallium (LMAN), Area X, and the robust nucleus of the arcopallium (RA). In mammals, the neuropeptide neurotensin strongly interacts with dopamine signaling. This study investigated a potential role for the neurotensin system in song learning by examining how neurotensin (Nts) and neurotensin receptor 1 (Ntsr1) expression change throughout development.NtsandNtsr1mRNA expression was analyzed in song‐control regions of male zebra finches in four stages of the song learning process: pre‐subsong (25 days posthatch; dph), subsong (45 dph), plastic song (60 dph), and crystallized song (130 dph).Ntsexpression in LMAN during the subsong stage was lower compared to other time points.Ntsr1expression was highest in HVC, Area X, and RA during the pre‐subsong stage. Opposite and complementary expression patterns for the two genes in song nuclei and across the whole brain suggest distinct roles for regions that produce and receiveNts. The expression changes at crucial time points for song development are similar to changes observed in dopamine studies and suggestNtsmay be involved in the process of vocal learning. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 78: 671–686, 2018
Prefrontal cortex NG2 glia undergo a developmental switch in their responsiveness to exercise
Authors: Tomlinson Lyl , Huang Po Hsuan , Colognato Holly
Published: March 2018

Aerobic exercise is known to influence brain function, e.g., enhancing executive function in both children and adults, with many of these influences being attributed to alterations in neurogenesis and neuronal function. Yet oligodendroglia in adult brains have also been reported to be highly responsive to exercise, including in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a late myelinating region implicated in working memory. However, whether exercise affects oligodendroglia or myelination in juveniles, either in the PFC or in other brain regions, remains unknown. To address this, both juvenile and young adult mice were provided free access to running wheels for four weeks followed by an analysis of oligodendrocyte development and myelination in the PFC and the corpus callosum, a major white matter tract. Working memory and PFC NG2+ cell development were both affected by exercise in juvenile mice, yet surprisingly these exercise‐mediated effects were distinct in juveniles and young adults. In the PFC, NG2+ cell proliferation was increased in exercising juveniles, but not young adults, whereas newly‐born oligodendrocyte production was increased in exercising young adults, but not juveniles. Although no overall changes in myelin genes were found, elevated levels of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1, a glial lactate transporter important during active myelination, were found in the PFC of exercising young adults. Overall our findings reveal that long‐term exercise modulates PFC glial development and does so differentially in juvenile and young adult mice, providing insight into the cellular responses that may underlie cognitive benefits to teenagers and young adults in response to exercise. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 78: 687–700, 2018
Unambiguous identification and characterization of a long‐term human metabolite of dehydrochloromethyltestosterone
Authors: Forsdahl Guro , Geisendorfer Thomas , Göschl Lorenz , Pfeffer Sandra , Gärtner Peter , Thevis Mario , Gmeiner Günter
Published: March 2018

In doping control analysis, the characterization of urinary steroid metabolites is of high interest for a targeted and long‐term detection of prohibited anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS). In this work, the structure of a long‐term metabolite of dehydrochloromethyltestosterone (DHCMT) was elucidated. Altogether, 8 possible metabolites with a 17α‐methyl‐17β‐hydroxymethyl – structures were synthesized and compared to a major DHCMT long‐term metabolite detected in reference urine excretion samples. The confirmed structure of the metabolite was 4α‐chloro‐18‐nor‐17β‐hydroxymethyl‐17α‐methyl‐5α‐androst‐13‐en‐3α‐ol.
Environmental determinism, and not interspecific competition, drives morphological variability in Australasian warblers (Acanthizidae)
Authors: García‐Navas Vicente , Rodríguez‐Rey Marta , Marki Petter Z. , Christidis Les
Published: March 2018

Interspecific competition is thought to play a key role in determining the coexistence of closely related species within adaptive radiations. Competition for ecological resources can lead to different outcomes from character displacement to, ultimately, competitive exclusion. Accordingly, divergent natural selection should disfavor those species that are the most similar to their competitor in resource use, thereby increasing morphological disparity. Here, we examined ecomorphological variability within an Australo‐Papuan bird radiation, the Acanthizidae, which include both allopatric and sympatric complexes. In addition, we investigated whether morphological similarities between species are related to environmental factors at fine scale (foraging niche) and/or large scale (climate). Contrary to that predicted by the competition hypothesis, we did not find a significant correlation between the morphological similarities found between species and their degree of range overlap. Comparative modeling based on both a priori and data‐driven identification of selective regimes suggested that foraging niche is a poor predictor of morphological variability in acanthizids. By contrast, our results indicate that climatic conditions were an important factor in the formation of morphological variation. We found a significant negative correlation between species scores for PC1 (positively associated to tarsus length and tail length) and both temperature and precipitation, whereas PC2 (positively associated to bill length and wing length) correlated positively with precipitation. In addition, we found that species inhabiting the same region are closer to each other in morphospace than to species outside that region regardless of genus to which they belong or its foraging strategy. Our results indicate that the conservative body form of acanthizids is one that can work under a wide variety of environments (an all‐purpose morphology), and the observed interspecific similarity is probably driven by the common response to environment.
Heard but not seen: Comparing bat assemblages and study methods in a mosaic landscape in the Western Ghats of India
Authors: Wordley Claire F. R. , Sankaran Mahesh , Mudappa Divya , Altringham John D.
Published: March 2018

We used capture (mist‐netting) and acoustic methods to compare the species richness, abundance, and composition of a bat assemblage in different habitats in the Western Ghats of India. In the tropics, catching bats has been more commonly used as a survey method than acoustic recordings. In our study, acoustic methods based on recording echolocation calls detected greater bat activity and more species than mist‐netting. However, some species were detected more frequently or exclusively by capture. Ideally, the two methods should be used together to compensate for the biases in each. Using combined capture and acoustic data, we found that protected forests, forest fragments, and shade coffee plantations hosted similar and diverse species assemblages, although some species were recorded more frequently in protected forests. Tea plantations contained very few species from the overall bat assemblage. In riparian habitats, a strip of forested habitat on the river bank improved the habitat for bats compared to rivers with tea planted up to each bank. Our results show that shade coffee plantations are better bat habitat than tea plantations in biodiversity hotspots. However, if tea is to be the dominant land use, forest fragments and riparian corridors can improve the landscape considerably for bats. We encourage coffee growers to retain traditional plantations with mature native trees, rather than reverting to sun grown coffee or coffee shaded by a few species of timber trees.
Controlling an Autonomous Agent for Exploring Unknown Environments Using Switching Prelearned Modules
Authors: HATA TAKAHITO , SUGANUMA MASANORI , NAGAO TOMOHARU
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we try to acquire various behavior patterns of autonomous exploration agent using several learning environments. In case of previous learning methods using a single behavior rule set, it is hard to acquire the behavior that covers all learning environments. In our method, we divide learning environments into some primitive environments whose properties differ each other, and then generate modules that are specialized for each primitive environment. To optimize behavior rules of agents, we adopt graph structured program evolution (GRAPE) which can automatically generate graph structured programs. In unknown environments, each module is switched by a program named “switcher”. The switcher selects the module that acts better in a neighboring environment. Through several experiments, our method achieved higher exploration rate in unknown environments compared to simple GRAPE, random search, and the method that switches modules randomly.
Analyzing linear spatial features in ecology
Authors: Buettel Jessie C. , Cole Andrew , Dickey John M. , Brook Barry W.
Published: March 2018

The spatial analysis of dimensionless points (e.g., tree locations on a plot map) is common in ecology, for instance using point‐process statistics to detect and compare patterns. However, the treatment of one‐dimensional linear features (fiber processes) is rarely attempted. Here we appropriate the methods of vector sums and dot products, used regularly in fields like astrophysics, to analyze a data set of mapped linear features (logs) measured in 12 × 1‐ha forest plots. For this demonstrative case study, we ask two deceptively simple questions: do trees tend to fall downhill, and if so, does slope gradient matter? Despite noisy data and many potential confounders, we show clearly that topography (slope direction and steepness) of forest plots does matter to treefall. More generally, these results underscore the value of mathematical methods of physics to problems in the spatial analysis of linear features, and the opportunities that interdisciplinary collaboration provides. This work provides scope for a variety of future ecological analyzes of fiber processes in space.
Synthesis of a ZnO/CdS/TiO2 Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity and Stability by a Simple Solution‐Based Method
Authors: Gao Shiyong , Zhang Jiejing , Li Yikun , Jiao Shujie , Yuan Jujun , Wang Guangning , Li Xiang , Wang Jinzhong , Yu Qingjiang , Zhang Xitian
Published: March 2018

A simple, low‐cost synthetic approach was developed for fabricating a TiO2 layer on the surface of CdS‐sensitized ZnO nanorods by a liquid‐phase deposition method. In the ZnO/CdS/TiO2 composite structure, CdS quantum dots are grown on ZnO nanorods and the resulting CdS/ZnO nanorods are uniformly coated with a TiO2 layer. UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy showed that CdS could provide better light‐harvesting ability, and the photocatalytic activity was significantly improved by CdS compared with that of ZnO nanorods alone. Recycling experiments on ZnO/CdS showed continuous attenuation of photocatalytic performance, whereas the TiO2 protective layer maintains superior photocatalytic performance of the photocatalyst and strongly inhibits the photocorrosion of CdS. In addition, a possible photocatalytic mechanism of the ZnO/CdS/TiO2 composite is proposed.