bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of the heat transfer characteristics of novel Ni‐foam structured catalysts
Authors: Wan Zheng , Jiang Jian , Ma Hongfang , Li Yakun , Lu Yong , Cao Fahai
Published: July 2016

Highly exothermic reactions require catalyst beds with good heat transfer characteristics. Novel Ni‐foam structured catalysts have significant heat transfer efficiency compared with traditional packed beds, which is very suitable for the highly exothermic methanation reaction. The present work reports an experimental study of steady‐state heat transfer behaviour of a gas flowing through a fixed bed packed with Ni‐foam structured catalyst under various operation conditions. Experiments were carried out in a dedicated tubular reactor with inlet air temperature ranging from 160 to 200 °C, heating pipe temperature inside the fixed bed ranging from 400 to 500 °C, and air flow rate ranging from 4.0 to 6.0 Nm3/h. Effective radial conductivity (λer) and wall heat transfer coefficient (αw) were derived based on the steady‐state measurements and the two‐dimensional pseudo‐homogeneous heat transfer model. The estimated values of λer and αw were between 2.17 and 3.34 W/m · K and 170 to 250 W/m2 · K respectively. Heat transfer properties of Ni‐foam structured catalyst are prominent compared with conventional packed bed. From the results it was found that the metal matrix and porous structure of the catalyst enhanced heat transfer. We anticipate that our research will open a new opportunity for design of new‐generation SNG process.
H2 separation using tubular stainless steel supported natural clinoptilolite membranes
Authors: Farjoo Afrooz , Kuznicki Steven M.
Published: July 2016

Disk membranes generated from high‐purity natural clinoptilolite mineral rock have shown promising hydrogen separation performance. To scale up production of these types of membranes for industrial gas separation, a coating strategy was devised. A mixture of natural clinoptilolite and aluminum silicate was deposited on the inner surface of porous stainless steel tubes by the slip casting technique. Phase composition and morphology of the coating materials were investigated using X‐ray diffraction. The performance was evaluated for a range of gases using single gas permeation tests at different temperatures and pressures. Introduction of the second layer significantly improved the performance of the membrane system. The experiments on the double‐layered membranes measured a hydrogen permeance of 1.65 × 10−7 mol · m−2 · s−1 · Pa−1 at 300 °C. H2/CO2 and H2/C2H6 single gas selectivity was 10.2 and 8.45 respectively at 25 °C and feed pressure of 110 kPa. These results show that natural zeolite coated stainless steel tubular membranes have high potential for large‐scale gas separation at high temperature requirements.
Discovery of Highly Potent Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonists via a Scaffold‐Hopping Approach
Authors: Heidmann Bibia , Gatfield John , Roch Catherine , Treiber Alexander , Tortoioli Simone , Brotschi Christine , Williams Jodi T. , Bolli Martin H. , Abele Stefan , Sifferlen Thierry , Jenck François , Boss Christoph
Published: July 2016

Starting from suvorexant (trade name Belsomra), we successfully identified interesting templates leading to potent dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs) via a scaffold‐hopping approach. Structure–activity relationship optimization allowed us not only to improve the antagonistic potency on both orexin 1 and orexin 2 receptors (Ox1 and Ox2, respectively), but also to increase metabolic stability in human liver microsomes (HLM), decrease time‐dependent inhibition of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4, and decrease P‐glycoprotein (Pgp)‐mediated efflux. Compound 80 c [{(1S,6R)‐3‐(6,7‐difluoroquinoxalin‐2‐yl)‐3,8‐diazabicyclo[4.2.0]octan‐8‐yl}(4‐methyl‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐2‐yl)methanone] is a potent and selective DORA that inhibits the stimulating effects of orexin peptides OXA and OXB at both Ox1 and Ox2. In calcium‐release assays, 80 c was found to exhibit an insurmountable antagonistic profile at both Ox1 and Ox2, while displaying a sleep‐promoting effect in rat and dog models, similar to that of the benchmark compound suvorexant.
Comorbid symptoms of emotional distress in adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: D'Agostino Norma Mammone , Edelstein Kim , Zhang Nan , Recklitis Christopher J. , Brinkman Tara M. , Srivastava Deokumar , Leisenring Wendy M. , Robison Leslie L. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Krull Kevin R.
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk for emotional distress symptoms, but symptom comorbidity has not been previously examined. This study examined distress profiles for adult survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed between 1970 and 1999.

METHODS

Self‐reported depression, anxiety, and somatization symptoms from Brief Symptom Inventory 18 were examined in survivors (n = 16,079) and siblings (n = 3085) from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study. A latent profile analysis identified clusters of survivors with individual and comorbid symptoms. Disease, treatment, and demographic predictors of distress comorbidity patterns were examined with multinomial logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Four clinically relevant profiles were identified: low distress on all subscales (asymptomatic, 62%), high distress on all subscales (comorbid distress, 11%), elevated somatization (somatic symptoms, 13%), and elevated depression and anxiety (affective distress, 14%). Compared with siblings, fewer survivors were asymptomatic (62% vs 74%, P < .0001), and more had comorbid distress (11% vs 5%, P < .0001). Survivors of leukemia (odds ratio [OR], 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12‐1.61), central nervous system tumors (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.05‐1.61), and sarcoma (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.57) had a greater risk of comorbid distress than survivors of solid tumors. Psychoactive medications were associated with comorbid distress (P < .0001), and this suggested that this group was refractory to traditional medical management. Comorbid distress was associated with poor perceived health (OR, 31.7; 95% CI, 23.1‐43.3), headaches (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 2.8‐3.7), and bodily pain (OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 3.2‐5.0).

CONCLUSIONS

A significant proportion of survivors are at risk for comorbid distress, which may require extensive treatment approaches beyond those used for individual symptoms. Cancer 2016;122:3215–24. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Downstream consequences of melanoma screening in a community practice setting: First results
Authors: Weinstock Martin A. , Ferris Laura K. , Saul Melissa I. , Geller Alan C. , Risica Patricia M. , Siegel Julia A. , Solano Francis X. , Kirkwood John M.
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Population‐based screening for the early detection of melanoma holds great promise for reducing melanoma mortality, but evidence is needed to determine whether benefits outweigh risks. Skin surgeries and dermatology visits after screening were assessed to indicate potential physical, psychological, and financial consequences.

METHODS

Targeted primary care providers (PCPs) at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center were trained to detect early melanoma using the INFORMED (INternet course FOR Melanoma Early Detection) program. The authors analyzed aggregated administrative data describing 3 groups of patients aged ≥35 years who had received an annual physical examination by PCPs: group A1 included patients of PCPs from the group with the highest percentage of INFORMED‐trained providers, group A2 included patients of PCPs from the group with a lower percentage of INFORMED‐trained providers, and group B included patients of PCPs without INFORMED training.

RESULTS

INFORMED‐trained PCPs screened 1572 of 16,472 patients in groups A1 or A2 and none of the 56,261 patients in group B. In group A1, there was a 79% increase (95% confidence interval, 15%‐138%) in melanoma diagnoses noted; no increase was observed for the other groups, and no substantial increase in skin surgeries or dermatology visits occurred in any group.

CONCLUSIONS

A large‐scale melanoma screening using the INFORMED program was conducted in Pennsylvania. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the current study is the first analysis of downstream results and the findings indicate increased melanoma diagnoses but little impact on skin surgeries or dermatology visits. This result provides some reassurance that such efforts can be conducted without major adverse consequences, at least as measured by these parameters, and therefore should be considered for more widespread use. Cancer 2016;122:3152–6. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Lack of harms from community‐based melanoma screening by primary care providers
Authors: Curiel‐Lewandrowski Clara , Swetter Susan M.
Published: July 2016

Skin cancer screening by primary care physicians results in the increased diagnosis of melanomas without affecting the number of referrals to specialists and surgical procedures. The identification of nonmelanoma skin cancers as part of melanoma screening efforts should not be considered a deleterious effect.

See also pages 3152‐6.
Site‐Specific Chemical Surface Functionalization and Electronic Patterning of Graphene by Electrooxidative Lithography
Authors: Liu He , Hoeppener Stephanie , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: July 2016

The combination of different properties being manipulated on nanomaterials is one of the challenges in nanotechnology research. In particular, the possibility to tailor the electronic and chemical properties offers promising possibilities for the design of functional nanostructures. Herein, we report an approach that permits control of these properties on the basis of electrooxidative lithography to structure reduced graphene oxide functionalized with a self‐assembled monolayer of n‐octadecyltrichlorosilane. The electrochemical oxidation process first induces the formation of polar acid groups on the monolayer, which can be used to covalently bind nanoparticles and molecules and, secondly, also allows the reoxidation of the underlying reduced graphene oxide. As such, the chemical signature as well as the electronic properties of the substrate can be tailored on the micro‐ and nanometer scale. Details on the oxidation of the monolayer as well as thorough characterization of the electronic properties will be presented. Finally, the approach is used to demonstrate the fabrication of a sensitive glucose sensor device.
Extraction and Esterification of Low‐Titer Short‐Chain Volatile Fatty Acids from Anaerobic Fermentation with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Andersen Stephen J. , Berton Jan K. E. T. , Naert Pieter , Gildemyn Sylvia , Rabaey Korneel , Stevens Christian V.
Published: July 2016

Ionic liquids can both act as a solvent and mediate esterification to valorize low‐titer volatile fatty acids and generate organic solvents from renewable carbon sources including biowaste and CO2. In this study, four phosphonium ionic liquids were tested for single‐stage extraction of acetic acid from a dilute stream and esterification to ethyl acetate with added ethanol and heat. The esterification proceeded with a maximum conversion of 85.9±1.3 % after 30 min at 75 °C at a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio of reactants. Extraction and esterification can be tailored using mixed‐anion ionic liquids; this is demonstrated herein using a common trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium cation and a mixed chloride and bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion ionic liquid. As a further proof‐of‐concept, ethyl acetate was generated from an ionic liquid‐driven esterification of an acetic acid extractant generated using CO2 as the only carbon source by microbial electrosynthesis.
Dendrite and spine modifications in autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders in patients and animal models
Authors: Martínez‐Cerdeño Verónica
Published: July 2016

Dendrites and spines are the main neuronal structures receiving input from other neurons and glial cells. Dendritic and spine number, size, and morphology are some of the crucial factors determining how signals coming from individual synapses are integrated. Much remains to be understood about the characteristics of neuronal dendrites and dendritic spines in autism and related disorders. Although there have been many studies conducted using autism mouse models, few have been carried out using postmortem human tissue from patients. Available animal models of autism include those generated through genetic modifications and those non‐genetic models of the disease. Here, we review how dendrite and spine morphology and number is affected in autism and related neurodevelopmental diseases, both in human, and genetic and non‐genetic animal models of autism. Overall, data obtained from human and animal models point to a generalized reduction in the size and number, as well as an alteration of the morphology of dendrites; and an increase in spine densities with immature morphology, indicating a general spine immaturity state in autism. Additional human studies on dendrite and spine number and morphology in postmortem tissue are needed to understand the properties of these structures in the cerebral cortex of patients with autism. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 419–437, 2017
New insights for identification of doping with recombinant human erythropoietin micro‐doses after high hydration
Authors: Martin L. , Ashenden M. , Bejder J. , Hoffmann M. , Nordsborg N. , Karstoft K. , Morkeberg J. , Sharpe K. , Lasne F. , Marchand A.
Published: July 2016

To minimize the chances of being caught after doping with recombinant human erythropoietins (rhEPO), athletes have turned to new practices using micro‐doses and excess fluid ingestion to accelerate elimination and decrease the probability of detection. Our objective was to test the sensitivity of detection by validated methods (IEF: isoelectric focusing; SDS‐PAGE: sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) when such practices are used. First, after a three‐week rhEPO boost period and 10 days of wash out, detection of a single 900 IU micro‐dose of Eprex® was evaluated in healthy male subjects. After an injection in the evening, urine and plasma samples were collected the following morning. Half of the subjects then drank a bolus of water and new samples were collected 80 min later. Interestingly, rhEPO was detected in 100% of the samples even after water ingestion. A second similar protocol was then performed with a single injection of a micro‐dose of rhEPO (500 IU or 900 IU), without a prior rhEPO boost. In addition, urine and plasma samples were also collected 15 and 20 h post rhEPO administration. Once again drinking water did not affect the rate of detection. Urine appeared a better matrix to detect micro‐doses after 10 h, enabling between 92% and 100% of identification at that time. The rate of identification decreased rapidly thereafter, in particular for the 500 IU micro‐dose. However IEF analysis still resulted in 71% identification of rhEPO in urine after 20 h. These results could help to define a better strategy for controlling and identifying athletes using rhEPO micro‐doses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pivotal effect of early‐winter temperatures and snowfall on population growth of alpineParnassius smintheusbutterflies
Authors: Roland Jens , Matter Stephen F.
Published: July 2016

Geographic range shifts in species’ distributions, due to climate change, imply altered dynamics at both their northern and southern range limits, or at upper and lower elevational limits. There is therefore a need to identify specific weather or climate variable(s), and life stages or cohorts on which they act, and how these affect population growth. Identifying such variables permits prediction of population increase or decline under a changing climate, and shifts in a species’ geographic range. For relatively well studied groups, such as butterflies, geographic range shifts are well documented, but weather variables and mechanisms causing those shifts are not well known. The Holarctic butterfly genusParnassius(Papilionidae) inhabits northern and alpine environments subject to variable and extreme weather. As such,Parnassiusspecies are vulnerable not only to long‐term changes in average conditions but especially to short‐term extreme weather events. We use population growth estimates for the alpine butterfly,Parnassius smintheus, from 21 populations in the Rocky Mountains of Canada over a 20‐yr interval combined with techniques of machine learning (randomForests) and parametric modeling to identify the important weather variables determining population growth. We do this to determine the seasons and life stages ofP. smintheusmost affected by climate change. Extreme minimum and maximum temperatures in November, in combination with November snowfall, affect annual population growth most, more so than do mean temperatures in November, and more so than weather at any other time of year. Populations decline both in years with low extreme minimum temperatures in November and especially in years with high extreme maximum temperatures in November, indicating that overwintering eggs are particularly vulnerable to early‐winter weather. Snowfall ameliorates the negative effects of extreme temperatures, particularly for extreme warm events. Results provide insight into biological mechanisms by which overwintering eggs might be affected by early winter weather. Short‐term extreme weather in November, acting on a single pivotal life stage (egg) is a far better predictor of population change of alpineP. smintheusbutterflies than is the general index of climate, the Pacific Decadal Oscillation.
A Mixed‐Valence Bis‐Phosphorus Complex Entrapped in a Oxatriphyrin(3.1.1) Surrounding
Authors: Idec Aneta , Skonieczny Janusz , Latos‐Grażyński Lechosław , Pawlicki Miłosz
Published: July 2016

The macrocyclic, porphyrinic environment has been reported as a ligand capable of accommodating different types and numbers of cations. The number of coordinated cations strongly depends on the coordination sphere size, which usually limits the possibility of forming multicationic structures to higher oligomers of macrocycles. Even for structures with enlarged coordination spheres, two interacting phosphorus ions with different oxidation states entrapped in a single organic frame are rarely reported. Oxatriphyrin(3.1.1) adapts its properties to form a mixed‐valence, bis‐phosphorus complex with a P–O–P unit entrapped. The macrocycle adjusts its coordination properties actively by involving the meso carbon atom to bind two phosphorus atoms with different oxidation states. The final complex presents emission properties that are characteristic for a triheterocyclic, fully conjugated fragment but that are tunable by the second PV ion.
Thiourea‐Catalyzed Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling of C(sp3)–H with Diethyl Phosphite
Authors: Gu Kai , Zhang Zhiguo , Bao Zongbi , Xing Huabin , Yang Qiwei , Ren Qilong
Published: July 2016

The efficient thiourea‐catalyzed cross‐dehydrogenative coupling of C(sp3)–H with diethyl phosphite by using tert‐butyl peroxide as a terminal oxidant was explored. This protocol further expands the application scope of H‐bond donors and also provides facile access to biologically relevant α‐amino phosphonic derivatives.
A Sensitive Sensor Based on CuTSPc and Reduced Graphene Oxide for Simultaneous Determination of the BHA and TBHQ Antioxidants in Biodiesel Samples
Authors: Sousa Carvalho Rita Maria , Yotsumoto Neto Sakae , Carvalho Silva Fernando , Santos Damos Flavio , de Cássia Silva Luz Rita
Published: July 2016

A novel and sensitive electrochemical sensor was developed for the simultaneous determination of the butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) antioxidants in biodiesel samples employing the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). In this sense, a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with copper (II) tetrasulfonated phthatocyanine immobilized on reduced graphene oxide (CuTSPc/rGO) allowed the detection of BHA and TBHQ at potentials lower than those observed at unmodified electrodes. The sensor was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear scan voltammetry (LSV). After optimization of the experimental parameters, the analytical curves for simultaneous determination of BHA and TBHQ by DPV technique demonstrated an excellent linear response from 0.1 to 500 µmol L−1 with detection limit of 0.045 µmol L−1 for TBHQ and 0.036 µmol L−1 for BHA. Finally, the proposed method was successfully applied in the simultaneous determination of BHA and TBHQ in six biodiesel samples, and the results obtained were found to be similar to those obtained using the HPLC method with agreement at 95 % confidence level.
Voltammetry at a Hanging Mercury Drop Electrode as a Tool for the Study of the Interaction of Double‐stranded DNA with Genotoxic 4‐Nitrobiphenyl
Authors: Horakova Eva , Barek Jiri , Vyskocil Vlastimil
Published: July 2016

Differential pulse voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, alternating current voltammetry, and chronocoulometry at a hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE) and DNA modified HMDE were used for the study of the interaction of 4‐nitrobiphenyl (4‐NBP) with double‐stranded DNA and for the detection of DNA damage caused by its interaction with 4‐NBP. Moreover, the interaction of DNA with intermediates of the 4‐NBP reduction and with 4‐aminobiphenyl, a metabolite of 4‐NBP, was investigated. The mechanism of the electrochemical reduction of 4‐NBP was investigated using CV, too. It was found that the reduction of 4‐NBP is controlled by both diffusion and adsorption. The rate constant of the reduction and the diffusion coefficient were calculated as well.
Potentiometric Anion Selectivity and Analytical Applications of Polymer Membrane Electrodes Based on Novel Mn(III)‐ and Mn(IV)‐Salophen Complexes
Authors: Abdel‐Haleem Fatehy M. , Badr Ibrahim H. A. , Rizk Mahmoud S.
Published: July 2016

New Mn(III)‐L and Mn(IV)‐L complexes were prepared from the highly lipophilic salophen ligand (L): phenol 2,2′‐[(4,5‐dimethyl‐1,2‐phenylene)bis[(E)‐nitrilomethylidyne]]bis[4,6‐bis(1,1‐dimethylethyl). The prepared complexes were fully characterized and used for the construction of thiocyanate membrane electrodes. Optimized membrane electrodes contained 33.0 mg PVC, 66.0 mg o‐nitrophenyloctylether, 50 or 5 (mole %) tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl borate and 1 mg Mn(III)‐L (sensor 2) or Mn‐(IV)‐L (sensor 12), respectively. Such electrodes exhibited linear responses toward thiocynate in a concentration range of 10−1–10−5 M and detection limits of 8.3×10−6, 8.9×10−6 M for sensor 2 and 12, respectively. Optimized membrane electrodes exhbited high selectivty toward thiocayante compared to more lipophilic anions. The observed thiocyanate selectivity of the optimized membranes was confirmed by formation constant calculations for Mn(III)‐L and Mn(IV)‐L with SCN−, β=1014.1 and 1012.5, which was measured potentiometrically using the sandwich membrane method. Furthermore, computational study using DFT calculations was performed to at DFT/B3LYP level of theory to confirm the observed selectivity data. The response times were 3 and 0.5 min for low and high concentrations. The lifetimes of the optimized electrodes were ∼4–6 weeks. The analytical utility of the optimized membrane electrodes was demonstrated by the analysis of thiocyanate level in different saliva samples.
Reaction of Pyridoxal with Hydrophosphoryl Compounds
Authors: Kibardina Lyudmila K. , Trifonov Alexey V. , Dobrynin Alexey B. , Pudovik Michael A. , Burilov Alexander R. , Sinyashin Oleg G.
Published: July 2016

The products of carbonyl phosphonylation of pyridoxal with dialkylphosphinous acid, alkylphosphinic acid ethyl esters, and phosphorous acid dialkyl (or diphenyl) esters have been obtained for the first time. In some cases, the products of addition are hydrolytically unstable and stabilized by forming internal betaine structures. The reaction of pyridoxal with phosphorous acid in alcohol solutions gives alkoxyfuropyridines possessing the iminium nitrogen atom. The structure and composition of the prepared compounds have been established by 31P and 1H NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF), and X‐ray analysis.
Effective Synthesis of N‐Arylformamide from α‐Halo‐N‐arylacetamides
Authors: Chiang Kun‐Heng , Lu Shi‐Han , Yen Wan‐Ping , Uramaru Naoto , Tseng Wei‐Siou , Chang Te‐Wei , Wong Fung Fuh
Published: July 2016

A convenient synthetic method for N‐arylformamide derivatives was successfully developed by reacting α‐iodo‐N‐arylacetamides with formamide. This method was applicable to α‐iodo‐N‐arylacetamide substrates bearing electron‐donating or electron‐withdrawing groups, N‐(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐2‐iodoacetamide, 2‐iodo‐N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)acetamide, and 2‐iodo‐N‐(naphthalen‐4‐yl)acetamide to give the corresponding N‐arylformamides in moderate to excellent yields (65–94%). A plausible mechanism was proposed to account for the new transformation.
Deoxynivalenol induced mouse skin tumor initiation: Elucidation of molecular mechanisms in human HaCaT keratinocytes
Authors: Mishra Sakshi , Tewari Prachi , Chaudhari Bhushan P. , Dwivedi Premendra D. , Pandey Haushila P. , Das Mukul
Published: July 2016

Among food contaminants, mycotoxins are toxic to both human and animal health. Our prior studies suggest that Deoxynivalenol (DON), a mycotoxin, behaves as a tumor promoter by inducing edema, hyperplasia, ODC activity and activation of MAPK's in mouse skin. In this study, topical application of DON, 336 and 672 nmol significantly enhanced ROS levels, DNA damage and apoptosis with concomitant downregulation of Ki‐67, cyclin D, cyclin E, cyclin A and cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDK4 and CDK2) thereby resulting in tumor initiation in mouse skin. Further, the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of tumor initiation by DON (0.42–3.37 nmol/ml) in HaCaT keratinocytes, revealed (i) enhanced ROS generation with cell cycle phase arrest in G0/G1 phase, (ii) increase in levels of 8‐OxoG (6–24 hr) and γH2AX protein, (iii) significant enhancement in oxidative stress marker enzymes LPO, GSH, GR with concomitant decrease in antioxidant enzymes catalase, GPx, GST, SOD and mitochondrial membrane potential after DON (1.68 nmol) treatment, (iv) suppression of Nrf2 translocation to nucleus, enhanced phosphorylation with subsequent activation ERK1/2, p38 and JNK MAPK's following DON (1.68 nmol) treatment, (v) overexpression of c‐jun, c‐fos proteins, upregulation of Bax along with downregulation of Bcl‐2 proteins, (vi) increase in cytochrome‐c, caspase‐9, caspase‐3 and poly ADP ribose polymerase levels leads to apoptosis. Pretreatment of superoxide dismutase, mannitol and ethanol to HaCaT cells resulted in significant reduction in ROS levels and apoptosis indicating the role of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals in DON induced apoptosis as an early event and skin tumor initiation as a late event.
“They Didn't Teach Us Well”: Mexican‐Origin Students Speak Out About Their Readiness for College Literacy
Authors: Murillo Luz A. , Schall Janine M.
Published: July 2016

This study reports on Mexican‐origin university students' perceptions of their K–12 literacy experiences and preparation for college‐level reading. Participants were first‐generation college students from Spanish‐dominant homes enrolled in a reading‐intensive course at a four‐year Hispanic‐serving institution. The study was conducted as part of an initiative to assist predominantly low‐income, Latino/Hispanic students enrolled in entry‐level reading‐intensive courses, with the goal of improving postsecondary persistence. Data consisted of individual interviews and participants' language and literacy autobiographies and were analyzed from an ecology‐of‐literacy perspective. Findings included contrasts between home and school literacy forms and practices, differences between high school and college as learning environments, linguistic discrimination experienced at school, and negative ideologies associated with Spanish as a barrier to the development of strong literacy skills in English. Suggestions are offered for improving academic literacy instruction for Mexican‐origin youths.
The Relationship between the Methylated Septin‐9 DNA Blood Test and Stool Occult Blood Test for Diagnosing Colorectal Cancer in Taiwanese People
Authors: Chen Chung‐Hung , Yan Sheng‐Lei , Yang Tsung‐Hsun , Chen Shih‐Feng , Yeh Yung‐Hsiang , Ou Jing‐Jim , Lin Chien‐Hua , Lee Yueh‐Tsung , Chen Chien‐Hua
Published: July 2016

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common and lethal disease in the world. There is an increasing number of cases in Taiwan and a higher rate at advanced stages. The immune fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) has been used as a screening method in Taiwan for years. A new novel diagnostic tool, the Methylated Septin‐9 (MS‐9) DNA blood test, had been reported to have high sensitivity and specificity for CRC detection. There are no available data in Taiwan, so we conducted this prospective randomized trial to investigate the relationship among the MS‐9 DNA blood test, iFOBT, and a combination of the two tests for diagnosing CRC in Taiwanese people.

Methods

From July 1, 2012 to December 31, 2013, we prospectively selected 60 plasma samples from patients who were diagnosed with CRC and otherwise, the healthy group by colonoscopy in our hospital. Patients were divided into the CRC group and healthy group. CRC stages 0, I, II and stages III and IV were separately analyzed. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of each group to determine the relationship among the MS‐9 DNA blood test, iFOBT, and a combination of the two tests for diagnosing CRC in Taiwanese people.

Results

The results of the MS‐9 DNA blood test for the 60 samples were divided into three groups, and the sensitivity as well as the specificity of the MS‐9 DNA blood test to detect CRC were 47% and 89%, respectively. The results of iFOBT were also divided into three groups, and had higher sensitivity (84%) but lower specificity (55%) using iFOBT to detect CRC. Higher rates could be predicted to detect CRC if both the tests were positive.

Conclusions

A combined MS‐9 DNA blood test and iFOBT may help in a higher detection rate of CRC. It could be offered to individuals who are unwilling or unable to undergo colonoscopy. Further large prospective, randomized studies are needed in the future.
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of 1,2‐dihydroquinoxaline‐3‐yl‐3‐Substitutedphenyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐Carbaldehyde
Authors: Dhanapal Visagaperumal , Ramalingam Jayakumar , Raman Anbalagan Navaneetha
Published: July 2016

A series of 1,2‐dihydroquinoxaline‐3‐yl‐3‐substitutedphenyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde were synthesized and evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against two Gram‐positive and two Gram‐negative organisms and two fungal organisms. The study has shown that pyrazole‐4‐carbaldehyde‐incorporated quinoxaline was essential for activity. Among the compounds, 5a, 5c, 5d had shown significant activity against all selected strains when compared with control. These compounds may prove useful as antimicrobial agents.
A chemical synthesis of a multiply 13C‐labeled hexasaccharide: a high‐mannose N‐glycan fragment
Authors: Zhang Wenhui , Pan Qingfeng , Serianni Anthony S.
Published: July 2016

As covalent modifiers of proteins, high‐mannose N‐glycans are important in maintaining protein structure and function in vivo. The conformations of these glycans can be studied by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy using spin–spin couplings (J‐couplings; scalar couplings) and other nuclear magnetic resonance parameters that are sensitive to the geometries of their constituent glycosidic linkages and other mobile elements in their structures. These analyses often require 13C‐labeling at specific carbon atoms, especially when measurements of 13C‐13C J‐couplings are of interest. The selection of particular 13C isotopomers of a glycan depends on the type of question under scrutiny. A chemical synthesis of a mannose‐containing hexasaccharide, α[1‐13C]Man(1→2)α[1,2‐13C2]Man(1→6)[α[1‐13C]Man(1→2)α[1,2‐13C2]Man(1→3)]α[1,2‐13C2]Man(1→6)βManOCH3, which is a nested fragment of the high‐mannose N‐glycans of human glycoproteins and contains eight 13C‐enriched carbon sites, is described in this report. The selected 13C isotopomer was chosen to maximize the measurement of J‐couplings sensitive to linkage conformations. This work demonstrates that chemical syntheses of multiply 13C‐labeled oligosaccharides are technically feasible and practical using present synthetic methods. The availability of this and other multiply 13C‐labeled mannose‐containing oligosaccharides will promote future studies of their conformations in solution and in the bound state.
Comparison of the effects of three types of aminobutyric acids on the control of Penicillium expansum infection in pear fruit
Authors: Fu Da , Sun Yu , Yu Chen , Zheng Xiaodong , Yu Ting , Lu Huangping
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Aminobutyric acids were reported to have inhibitory effects on postharvest fungal diseases. The effects of α‐aminobutyric acid (AABA), β‐aminobutyric acid (BABA) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the control of Penicillium expansum infection in pear fruit were compared in the present study.

RESULTS

BABA and GABA reduced the disease incidence of P. expansum infection in pear fruit when applied at an appropriate concentration and with a suitable treatment time. The efficacy of GABA was superior to BABA, whereas AABA had no inhibition effect. Three types of aminobutyric acids almost had no direct antifungal activity against P. expansum in vitro and in vivo, although BABA and GABA inhibited spore germination of P. expansum in vivo at a concentration of 100 mg L−1 when P. expansum was inoculated 24 h after treatment. Moreover, BABA and GABA enhanced catalase activity and all three aminobutyric acids enhanced peroxidase activity in pear fruit after being challenged by P. expansum, although BABA and GABA were more forceful than AABA.

CONCLUSION

The position of the amino group in aminobutyric acids may be associated with the effects of aminobutyric acids on the control of postharvest fungal diseases. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction based on solidification of floating organic droplet for the determination of triazine and triazoles in mineral water samples
Authors: Bolzan Cátia M. , Caldas Sergiane S. , Guimarães Bruno S. , Primel Ednei G.
Published: July 2016

A simple, rapid, and sensitive method for the determination of atrazine, simazine, cyproconazole, tebuconazole, and epoxiconazole in mineral water employing the dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction with solidification of a floating organic drop with determination by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry has been developed. A mixed solution of 250 μL 1‐dodecanol and 1250 μL methanol was injected rapidly into 10 mL aqueous solution (pH 7.0) with 2% w/v NaCl. After centrifugation for 5 min at 2000 rpm, the organic solvent droplets floated on the surface of the aqueous solution and the floating solvent solidified. The method limits of detection were between 3.75 and 37.5 ng/L and limits of quantification were between 12.5 and 125 ng/L. The recoveries ranged from 70 to 118% for repeatability and between 76 and 95% for intermediate precision with a relative standard deviation from 2 to 18% for all compounds. Low matrix effect was observed. The proposed method can be successfully applied in routine analysis for determination of pesticide residues in mineral water samples, allowing for monitoring of triazine and triazoles at levels below the regulatory limits set by international and national legislations.
Intraoperative electrophysiologic monitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroid and parathyroid surgery: Experience with 1,381 nerves at risk
Authors: Randolph Gregory W. , Kamani Dipti
Published: July 2016

Objectives

The electrophysiologic responses of 1,381 recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLN) during monitored neck surgery were recorded and reviewed.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

With institutional review board approval, we reviewed thyroid and other neck surgeries performed with intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) between the years 1995 and 2006. This list yielded consecutively monitored 1,381 RLNs, with over 3,000 hours of monitoring experience. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative laryngoscopy. In an initial subset of patients, both hook‐wire and endotracheal tube (ETT) surface electrodes were utilized. Normative stimulation parameters; postoperative vocal cord function prognostication using monitoring data; and false‐positive, false‐negative, and passive electrophysiologic responses were evaluated

Results

Hook‐wire electrodes and ETT surface electrodes were found to have good correlation in terms of amplitude (correlation coefficient, R = 0.89). Nerve stimulation of 1 to 2 mA resulted in an ipsilateral biphasic response, with 3.3 ms mean latency and 900 μV mean amplitude. Permanent and temporary RLN paralysis rates were 0% and 0.7%, respectively. Specificity of electromyography (EMG) loss of signal (LOS) postoperative vocal cord paralysis (VCP) detection was 99.9%, and sensitivity was 33%. Negative predictive value of EMG LOS at the end of surgery in the prediction of postoperative VCP was 99.6%, whereas its positive predictive value for VCP was 75%.

Conclusion

Intraoperative nerve monitoring of the RLN during thyroid and other neck surgeries can aid in the nerve mapping, nerve identification, and prognostication of postoperative vocal cord function, which in turn can influence the surgeon's decision to proceed to bilateral surgery.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:280–286, 2017
Community‐Based Rehabilitation of Mountain Terraces in Cyprus
Authors: Zoumides Christos , Bruggeman Adriana , Giannakis Elias , Camera Corrado , Djuma Hakan , Eliades Marinos , Charalambous Katerina
Published: July 2016

Participatory methods and community‐based approaches have an important role to play in combating land degradation. This paper follows a well‐defined participatory framework to identify key stakeholders and to select Sustainable Land Management approaches for reducing soil erosion and land degradation in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus. Among the options suggested and evaluated by stakeholders, terrace rehabilitation had the best overall performance, followed by crop diversification and afforestation. Stakeholders agreed that the rehabilitation of dry‐stone terraces was the preferred option, as it is a practice with high environmental benefits and fits well in the local socio‐cultural context, despite the higher cost compared to other options. In the first year of implementing the approach, three mountain communities co‐organised hands‐on terrace maintenance events, engaging more than 160 people in rehabilitation activities. The community‐based approach has sparked the interest of people within and beyond the research site, and another series of events is scheduled for the coming season. This outcome indicates that social innovations can benefit from the integration of local and scientific knowledge, while participatory process can enhance the self‐confidence and organisational structures of local communities. Sustaining and enhancing the impact of the approach in the long‐run require developing local terrace maintenance institutions, actively engaging the youth in terrace management and improving the profitability of mountain farming through the differentiation of local products. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rates and pathways of sedimentary organic matter mineralization in two basins of a boreal lake: Emphasis on methanogenesis and methanotrophy
Authors: Clayer François , Gobeil Charles , Tessier André
Published: July 2016

Sediment porewater was analyzed at several sampling dates in two adjacent basins of an oligotrophic boreal lake, one basin perennially oxygenated (Basin A) and the other occasionally anoxic (Basin B). Depth concentration profiles of methane (CH4), dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and electron acceptors were modeled with a one‐dimensional transport‐reaction equation to constrain the depth intervals (zones) where solutes are produced/consumed in the top 10 cm of the sediment column, and to obtain the net reaction rates in each zone. This multicomponent geochemical modeling reveals that CH4 was produced below 4–7 cm depth at lower rates in Basin A (250–800 fmol cm−2 s−1) than in Basin B (1900–6500 fmol cm−2 s−1) and that methanogenesis accounted for 30–64% and 84–100% of the sediment organic matter (OM) mineralization in Basins A and B, respectively. We show that methanogenesis did not always yield equimolar amount of CH4 and DIC, as would be expected from the fermentation of the model molecule CH2O. While ∼50% of the CH4 produced in Basin A is oxidized in the sediment column, this proportion decreases to ∼20% in Basin B. Dioxygen is by far the main electron acceptor for CH4 and OM oxidations in both basins. Methanotrophy in the sediment, however, is not limited to the ∼4‐mm thick surface layer in which O2 diffuses from bottom water but occurs down to 4–7 cm depth where O2 is transported through bioirrigation. Thermodynamic calculations suggest that, in addition to O2, Fe oxyhydroxides, and sulfate may serve as oxidants for methanotrophy in that zone. We predict that Basin B sediments release more CH4 than DIC whereas Basin A sediments mainly export DIC. This study highlights that small changes in hypolimnetic O2 levels may significantly alter the magnitude of OM mineralization pathways and the fate of CH4 in boreal lake sediments.
Methane ebullition and diffusion from northern ponds and lakes regulated by the interaction between temperature and system productivity
Authors: DelSontro Tonya , Boutet Lennie , St‐Pierre Annick , del Giorgio Paul A. , Prairie Yves T.
Published: July 2016

Methane (CH4) emissions from aquatic systems should be coupled to CH4 production, and thus a temperature‐dependent process, yet recent evidence suggests that modeling CH4 emissions may be more complex due to the biotic and abiotic processes influencing emissions. We studied the magnitude and regulation of two CH4 pathways—ebullition and diffusion—from 10 shallow ponds and 3 lakes in Québec. Ebullitive fluxes in ponds averaged 4.6 ± 4.1 mmol CH4 m−2 d−1, contributing ∼56% to total (diffusive + ebullitive) CH4 emissions. In lakes, ebullition only occurred in waters < 3 m deep, averaging 1.1 ± 1.5 mmol CH4 m−2 d−1, and when integrated over the whole lake, contributed only 18% to 22% to total CH4 emissions. While pond CH4 fluxes were related to sediment temperature, with ebullition having a stronger dependence than diffusion (Q10, 13 vs. 10; activation energies, 168 kJ mol−1 vs. 151 kJ mol−1), the temperature dependency of CH4 fluxes from lakes was absent. Combining data from ponds and lakes shows that the temperature dependency of CH4 diffusion and ebullition is strongly modulated by system trophic status (as total phosphorus), suggesting that organic substrate limitation dampens the influence of temperature on CH4 fluxes from oligotrophic systems. Furthermore, a strong phosphorus‐temperature interaction determines the dominant emission pathway, with ebullition disproportionately enhanced. Our results suggest that aquatic CH4 ebullition is regulated by the interaction between ecosystem productivity and climate, and will constitute an increasingly important component of carbon emissions from northern aquatic systems under climate and environmental change.
Near‐IR transillumination and reflectance imaging at 1,300 nm and 1,500–1,700 nm for in vivo caries detection
Authors: Simon Jacob C. , Lucas Seth A. , Staninec Michal , Tom Henry , Chan Kenneth H. , Darling Cynthia L. , Cozin Matthew J. , Lee Robert C. , Fried Daniel
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Several studies suggest that near‐IR imaging methods at wavelengths longer than 1,300 nm have great potential for caries detection. In this study, the diagnostic performance of both near‐IR transillumination and near‐IR reflectance was assessed on teeth scheduled for extraction due to orthodontic treatment (n = 109 teeth on 40 test subjects).

Methods

Three intra‐oral near‐IR imaging probes were fabricated for the acquisition of in vivo images using a high definition InGaAs camera and near‐IR broadband light sources. Two transillumination probes provided occlusal and approximal images using 1,300 nm light which manifests the highest transparency in enamel. A third reflectance probe utilized cross‐polarization and operated at wavelengths greater than 1,500 nm where water absorption is higher which reduces the reflectivity of sound tissues, significantly increasing lesion contrast. Teeth were collected after extraction and sectioned and examined with polarized light microscopy and microradiography which served as the gold standard. In addition, radiographs were taken of the teeth and the diagnostic performance of near‐IR imaging was compared with radiography.

Results

Near‐IR imaging was significantly more sensitive (P < 0.05) than radiography for the detection of lesions on both occlusal and proximal surfaces.

Conclusion

Near‐IR imaging methods are ideally suited for screening all tooth surfaces for carious lesions. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:828–836, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequence Analysis for Alternating Copolymers by MALDI‐TOF‐MS: Importance of Initiator Selectivity for Comonomer Pair
Authors: Nishimori Kana , Ouchi Makoto , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: July 2016

A special initiator for metal‐catalyzed living radical polymerization facilitates sequence analyses by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) of alternating copolymers from styrene and maleimide derivatives. The initiator is a malonate‐based alkyl halide (DEMM‐Br), in which two ester groups are attached on the carbon neighboring to bromide, and poor electron density of the radical species allows determination of next unit to the initiator in resultant alternating copolymers due to the selective initiation to styrene derivative. Thanks to the well‐defined α‐end group, sequence of the oligomeric products via radical copolymerization of PMS and EMI with DEMM‐Br can be more simply analyzed by MALDI‐TOF‐MS, and indeed the following are clarified: the crossover propagation is almost perfectly controlled regardless of the injection ratio; a minor error event of the disordered alternating sequence containing St–St sequential unit could take place; the minor error can be suppressed with an excess amount of maleimide.

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Microstructured Hydrogel Templates for the Formation of Conductive Gold Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Wünnemann Patrick , Noyong Michael , Kreuels Klaus , Brüx Roland , Gordiichuk Pavlo , van Rijn Patrick , Plamper Felix A. , Simon Ulrich , Böker Alexander
Published: July 2016

Microstructured hydrogel allows for a new template‐guided method to obtain conductive nanowire arrays on a large scale. To generate the template, an imprinting process is used in order to synthesize the hydrogel directly into the grooves of wrinkled polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The resulting poly(N‐vinylimidazole)‐based hydrogel is defined by the PDMS stamp in pattern and size. Subsequently, tetrachloroaurate(III) ions from aqueous solution are coordinated within the humps of the N‐vinylimidazole‐containing polymer template and reduced by air plasma. After reduction and development of the gold, to achieve conductive wires, the extension perpendicular to the long axis (width) of the gold strings is considerably reduced compared to the dimension of the parental hydrogel wrinkles (from ≈1 μm down to 200–300 nm). At the same time, the wire‐to‐wire distance and the overall length of the wires is preserved. The PDMS templates and hydrogel structures are analyzed with scanning force microscopy (SFM) and the gold structures via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The conductivity measurements of the gold nanowires are performed in situ in the SEM, showing highly conductive gold leads. Hence, this method can be regarded as a facile nonlithographic top‐down approach from micrometer‐sized structures to nanometer‐sized features.

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