bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxide Semiconductor Phototransistor with Organolead Trihalide Perovskite Light Absorber
Authors: Du Songnan , Li Gongtan , Cao Xuhong , Wang Yan , Lu Huiling , Zhang Shengdong , Liu Chuan , Zhou Hang
Published: February 2017

A hybrid phototransistor is developed with solution‐processed organolead trihalide perovskite (MAPbI3) capping indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), which well fuses the properties of the two materials in sensitive photodetecting and high‐mobility charge transporting, respectively. The MAPbI3‐capped IGZO phototransistor demonstrates excellent responsivities of over 25 mA W−1 for lights with photon energies above the bandgap of perovskite light absorber. Besides the high sensitivity to light in both ultraviolet and visible regions, hybrid phototransistor maintains a fair on/off ratio of over 106 in the dark, and a field effect mobility of 12.9 cm2 V−1 s−1. The perovskite light absorber also obviates the long‐standing problem for metal oxide phototransistor, the persistent photoconductivity behavior. Furthermore, fast transient response has been achieved by showing rise‐time and fall‐time within tens of milliseconds. The newly developed device opens variable optic‐electric sensing applications for the integrated oxide–perovskite hybrid phototransistors.
Highly Reliable and Sensitive Tactile Transistor Memory
Authors: Chen Chien‐Tung , Lee Wen‐Ya , Shen Tien‐Lin , Wu Hung‐Chin , Shih Chien‐Chung , Ye Bo‐Wei , Lin Tzu‐Yao , Chen Wen‐Chang , Chen Yang‐Fang
Published: February 2017

Keeping the information arising from tactile stimulation, such as pressure and texture of objects, is an essential feature for artificial intelligence. This important characteristic is intimately related to physiological behavior in daily activities. In order to develop next‐generation electronic skin for biomimetic prosthetics, repeating the history of a tactile motion is a must‐have function. Here, the first environmentally friendly, low‐cost, and multifunctional device is reported, which can act as a pressure sensor, transistor, as well as memory. This tactile transistor memory is very sensitive to external pressure and can store the pressure information after removing the external stimuli for subsequent manipulation. This work is a key step for the future development of intelligent robotic systems with learning capability.
Selective C(sp2)−H Functionalization of Arenes for Amination Reactions by Using Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Pandey Ganesh , Singh Deepak , Laha Ramkrishna
Published: February 2017

Herein, we report a mild and simple method for the highly selective C(sp2)−H amination reaction of arenes through visible‐light‐mediated photoredox catalysis with various amines, including imidazole, triazole, and tetrazole. This procedure has broad application for a range of aromatic compounds and heterocycles.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Anti‐Hepatitis B Drug, Entecavir, through Regio‐ and Stereoselective Epoxide Cleavage
Authors: Hyun Young Eum , Kim Hong‐Rae , Choi Yongseok , Jeong Lak Shin
Published: February 2017

A stereoselective synthesis of entecavir, an anti‐hepatitis B (HBV) drug, was accomplished by a regioselective isopropylidene cleavage, stereoselective Sharpless epoxidation, and TiIII‐mediated regio‐ and stereoselective epoxide cleavage as key steps.
Advancing infection control in Australasian medical ultrasound practice
Authors: Westerway Susan Campbell , Basseal Jocelyne M
Published: February 2017

Introduction/Aims

Australasia is witnessing a rapidly increasing use of diagnostic medical ultrasound in clinical practice with industry statistics giving a conservative estimate of ten million scans performed annually in Australia and New Zealand. Ultrasound practice has broadened from its traditional use in radiology, obstetrics and gynaecology, vascular and cardiology specialties to embrace emergency medicine, rheumatology, midwifery, physiotherapy, paramedics and other point of care practice. With this expansion of practice comes an increase in the potential risk for ultrasound transmitted bacterial or viral infection due to suboptimal cleaning habits of transducers, cords and keyboards.

Results/Conclusion

This study describes results of an Australasian survey on the disinfection and hygiene practice in medical ultrasound. Results highlighted a significant need for updated guidelines and education on infection prevention and control in medical ultrasound.
Enhancement of Antiangiogenic Efficacy of Iron(II) Complex by Selenium Substitution
Authors: Lai Haoqiang , Zhang Xiang , Feng Pengju , Xie Lina , Chen Jinjin , Chen Tianfeng
Published: February 2017

Antiangiogenesis therapy is a proven strategy for the treatment of cancers. Herein, we demonstrate that iron(II) complexes containing 1,10‐phenanthroline(phen) derivatives were capable of suppressing angiogenesis in vitro in a dose‐dependent manner. Interestingly, the introduction of selenium into an iron(II) complex ((Fe(phenSe)3(ClO4)2 (phenSe=2‐selenoimidazole[4,5‐f]1,10‐phenanthroline)) could enhance its antiangiogenic efficacy. Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the complex potently induced endothelial cell apoptosis as evidenced by activation of caspases and PARP cleavage. The iron(II) complex activated p53‐mediated mitochondrial dysfunction as can be seen by the upregulation in the expression of p53 and proapoptotic Bcl‐2 family proteins, and downregulation in the expression of Bcl‐2 family proteins. Additionally, the complex inhibited VEGF expression and gave rise to dephosphorylated AKT, which suppressed the transmission of the mitogenic signaling pathway. Taken together, this study could provide a strategy for the rational design of high‐efficacy antivascular agents.
Maternal Antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis and Risk of Gastroschisis
Authors: Parker Samantha E. , Werler Martha M. , Gissler Mika , Surcel Heljä‐Marja
Published: February 2017

Background

Gastroschisis, a birth defect of the abdominal wall, is increasing in prevalence. The largest increase in prevalence has been observed among young mothers (<20 years). The prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection is highest among young women and has also been increasing over time. The objective was to investigate the association between immunoglobulin G antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) (anti‐CT) and Chlamydial heat shock protein 60 (anti‐CHP60) during pregnancy, and risk of gastroschisis among offspring.

Methods

We conducted a nested case–control study of 292 gastroschisis cases identified from the Congenital Malformations Register and 826 live born controls matched on age and birth year within the Finnish Maternity Cohort. Early pregnancy serum samples were used to categorize women by seropositivity to anti‐CT and anti‐CHP60. Women seronegative for anti‐CT and anti‐CHP60 served as the reference. We used conditional logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Effect measure modification by maternal age (<25 years, ≥25 years) was also assessed.

Results

Seropositivity to anti‐CT (17.8% of cases vs. 16.0% of controls) or anti‐CHP60 (23.6% of cases vs. 22.0% of controls) was not associated with gastroschisis. Although, the OR for seropositivity to anti‐CT alone was slightly elevated (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 0.73–1.94), specifically among young mothers (<25 years) (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 0.81–3.37), the results were imprecise.

Conclusion

Chlamydia infection, as measured by immunoglobulin G antibodies to CT and CHP60, is not associated with gastroschisis, however, our assays were not able to distinguish recent infection.Birth Defects Research 109:543–549, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects of an escape extinction procedure using protective equipment on self‐injurious behavior
Authors: Tereshko Lisa , Sottolano Donn
Published: February 2017

While escape extinction has shown to be successful in reducing escape maintained self‐injurious behavior, there is limited research on the use of escape extinction with protective equipment for escape maintained self‐injurious behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of an escape extinction procedure paired with the application of protective equipment on the escape maintained self‐injurious behavior of an 8‐year‐old boy diagnosed with autism. Results suggested that escape extinction using protective equipment for safety is an effective approach to decrease head hitting. Rates of self‐injurious behavior during an 18‐month follow‐up were comparable to rates observed in the final intervention phase.
Neuroprotection of resveratrol against neurotoxicity induced by methamphetamine in mouse mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Sun Dong , Yue Qingwei , Guo Weihua , Li Tao , Zhang Jing , Li Guibao , Liu Zengxun , Sun Jinhao
Published: February 2017

Resveratrol is originally extracted from huzhang, a Chinese herbal medicine. Recently, resveratrol has attracted a great of attention due to its antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties. Although the neuroprotection of resveratrol on neural damages in various models has been well characterized, little is known about the role of resveratrol in methamphetamine (MA) induced neurotoxicity in mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons. Dopaminergic neurons were isolated from midbrain of mouse embryos at embryonic day 15 and cultured in the presence of MA and resveratrol. Cell viability was examined by MTT assay and the apoptosis was assessed using Hoechst33342/PI double staining. To evaluate the Oxidative damage, ROS assay was performed. Moreover, the changes of time course of intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) were analyzed with Fluo‐3/AM tracing. The data showed that MA induced the neurotoxicity of cultured cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Resveratrol significantly increased cellular viability and retarded cell apoptosis. Furthermore, resveratrol also attenuated MA induced ROS production and intracellular free calcium overload. Our results suggest that resveratrol protects dopaminergic neurons from MA‐induced neuronal cytotoxicity, which, at least partly, is mediated by inhibition of [Ca2+]i and oxidative stress. © 2015 BioFactors 41(4):252–260, 2015.
Selective oxidative stress and cholesterol metabolism in lipid‐metabolizing cell classes: Distinct regulatory roles for pro‐oxidants and antioxidants
Authors: Rosenblat Mira , Volkova Nina , Aviram Michael
Published: February 2017

Atherogenesis is associated with macrophage cholesterol and oxidized lipids accumulation and foam cell formation. However, two other major lipid‐metabolizing cell classes, namely intestinal and liver cells, are also associated with atherogenesis. This study demonstrates that manipulations of cellular oxidative stress (by fatty acids, glucose, low‐density lipoprotein, angiotensin II, polyphenolic antioxidants, or the glutathione/paraoxonase 1 systems) have some similar, but also some different effects on cholesterol metabolism in macrophages (J774A.1) versus intestinal cells (HT‐29) versus liver cells (HuH7). Cellular oxidative stress was ≈3.5‐folds higher in both intestinal and liver cells versus macrophages. In intestinal cells or liver cells versus macrophages, the cholesterol biosynthesis rate was increased by 9‐ or 15‐fold, respectively. In both macrophages and intestinal cells C‐18:1 and C‐18:2 but not C‐18:0, fatty acids significantly increased oxidative stress, whereas in liver cells oxidative stress was significantly decreased by all three fatty acids. In liver cells, trans C‐18:1 versus cis C‐18:1, unlike intestinal cells or macrophages, significantly increased cellular oxidative stress and cellular cholesterol biosynthesis rate. Pomegranate juice (PJ), red wine, or their phenolics gallic acids or quercetin significantly reduced cellular oxidation mostly in macrophages. Recombinant PON1 significantly decreased macrophage (but not the other cells) oxidative stress by ≈30%. We conclude that cellular atherogenesis research should look at atherogenicity, not only in macrophages but also in intestinal and liver cells, to advance our understanding of the complicated mechanisms behind atherogenesis. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(4):273–288, 2015
Schisandrin B induces an Nrf2‐mediated thioredoxin expression and suppresses the activation of inflammasome in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Leong Pou Kuan , Ko Kam Ming
Published: February 2017

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated activation of inflammasome is involved in the development of a wide spectrum of diseases. We aimed to investigate whether (−)schisandrin B [(−)Sch B], a phytochemical that can induce cellular antioxidant response, can suppress the inflammasome activation. Results showed that (−)Sch B can induce an nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2‐driven thioredoxin expression in primary peritoneal macrophages and cultured RAW264.7 macrophages. A 4‐h priming of peritoneal macrophages with LPS followed by a 30‐min incubation with ATP caused the activation of caspase 1 and the release of IL‐1β, indicative of inflammasome activation. Although LPS/ATP did not activate inflammasome in RAW264.7 macrophages, it caused the ROS‐dependent c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase1/2 (JNK1/2) activation and an associated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release in RAW264.7 macrophages, an indication of cytotoxicity. (−)Sch B suppressed the LPS/ATP‐induced activation of caspase 1 and release of IL‐1β in peritoneal macrophages. (−)Sch B also attenuated the LPS/ATP‐induced ROS production, JNK1/2 activation and LDH release in RAW264.7 macrophages. The ability of (−)Sch B to suppress LPS/ATP‐mediated inflammation in vitro was further confirmed by an animal study, in which schisandrin B treatment (2 mmol/kg p.o.) ameliorated the Imject Alum‐induced peritonitis, as indicated by suppressions of caspase1 activation and plasma IL‐1β level. The ensemble of results suggests that (−)Sch B may offer a promising prospect for preventing the inflammasome‐mediated disorders. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(5):314–323, 2015
Interactions of several genetic polymorphisms and alcohol consumption on blood pressure levels
Authors: Yin Rui‐Xing , Aung Lynn Htet Htet , Long Xing‐Jiang , Yan Ting‐Ting , Cao Xiao‐Li , Huang Feng , Wu Jin‐Zhen , Yang De‐Zhai , Lin Wei‐Xiong , Pan Shang‐Ling
Published: February 2017

This study aimed to detect the interactions of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and alcohol consumption on blood pressure levels. Genotypes of 10 SNPs in the ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA‐1), acyl‐CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase‐1 (ACAT‐1), low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), hepatic lipase gene (LIPC), endothelial lipase gene (LIPG), methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), the E3 ubiquitin ligase myosin regulatory light chain‐interacting protein (MYLIP), proprotein convertase subtilisin‐like kexin type 9 (PCSK9), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor delta (PPARD), and Scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SCARB1) genes were determined in 616 nondrinkers and 608 drinkers. The genotypic frequencies of LDLR rs5925, LIPC rs2070895, MTHFR rs1801133, and MYLIP rs3757354 SNPs were significantly different between nondrinkers and drinkers. The levels of systolic blood pressure (ABCA‐1 rs2066715 and rs2070895), diastolic blood pressure (rs2070895), and pulse pressure (PP) (rs2066715, ACAT‐1 rs1044925, and rs1801133) in nondrinkers, and systolic blood pressure (rs1044925 and SCARB1 rs5888), diastolic blood pressure (rs1044925 and LIPG rs2000813), and PP (PCSK9 rs505151 and rs5888) in drinkers were different among the genotypes (P < 0.005–0.001). The interactions of several SNPs and alcohol consumption on systolic blood pressure (rs2066715, rs1044925, rs5925, rs2070895, rs1801133, rs3757354, PPARD rs2016520, and rs5888), diastolic blood pressure (rs2066715, rs1044925, rs5925, rs2000813, rs3757354, and rs2016520), and PP (rs1044925, rs2070895, rs1801133, rs3757354, rs505151, and rs5888) were observed (P < 0.005–0.001). The differences in blood pressure levels between the nondrinkers and drinkers might be partially attributed to the interactions of these SNPs and alcohol consumption. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(5):339–351, 2015
Disease chemopreventive effects and molecular mechanisms of hydroxylated polymethoxyflavones
Authors: Lai Ching‐Shu , Wu Jia‐Ching , Ho Chi‐Tang , Pan Min‐Hsiung
Published: February 2017

Recent increasing attention in research of polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) from Citrus genus because of their wide range of biological properties has been reported in various studies. Hydroxylated PMFs are unique flavones and recognized as the methoxy group of PMFs that is substituted for hydroxyl one. Hydroxylated PMFs are naturally existed in citrus peel and other plants as well as occurred as metabolites of their PMFs counterparts. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have documented the chemopreventive effects of hydroxylated PMFs including anti‐cancer, anti‐inflammation, anti‐atherosclerosis, and neuroprotection. They function to regulate cell death, proliferation, differentiation, repair, and metabolism through acting on modulation of signaling cascade, gene transcription, and protein function and enzyme activity. The mechanisms of action of hydroxylated PMFs in disease chemoprevention depend on their structure, the number, and position of hydroxyl group. Although the efficacy of hydroxylated PMFs in chemoprevention and the oral bioavailability requires further investigation, they still provide great promise for improving human health. This review highlights the recent published data of hydroxylated PMFs with chemopreventive potential and the underlying mechanism involved. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(5):301–313, 2015.
A comparative study of myocardial molecular phenotypes of two tfr2β null mice: Role in ischemia/reperfusion
Authors: Boero Martina , Pagliaro Pasquale , Tullio Francesca , Pellegrino Rosa M. , Palmieri Antonietta , Ferbo Ludovica , Saglio Giuseppe , De Gobbi Marco , Penna Claudia , Roetto Antonella
Published: February 2017

Transferrin receptor 2 (Tfr2) is an iron‐modulator transcribed in two isoforms, Tfr2α and Tfr2β. The latter is expressed in the heart. We obtained two mouse models with silencing of Tfr2β: one with a normal systemic iron amount (SIA), i.e., Tfr2‐KI, and the other, i.e., LCKO‐KI, with high SIA due to hepatic Tfr2α silencing. We aimed to assess whether Tfr2β might play a role in myocardial injury and whether Tfr2β silencing might modify proteins of iron metabolism, antioxidant, apoptotic, and survival enzyme activities in the heart undergoing ischemia/reperfusion (I/R).

Isolated hearts of wild‐type (WT) and Tfr2‐null mice were studied before or after an I/R protocol, and proteins/RNA analyzed by Western blot and/or quantitative PCR.

Tfr2β increased in WT hearts subject to I/R, and both Tfr2β null mice hearts were protected against I/R injury (about 40% smaller infarct‐size compared to WT hearts). RISK kinases (ERK1/2‐AKT‐PKCε) were found up‐regulated after I/R in Tfr2‐KI, whereas SAFE enzyme (Stat3) and GSK3β resulted phosphorylated during I/R in LCKO‐KI hearts. While HO‐1 and HIF‐2a were high in both Tfr2β‐null mice, Catalase, and proapoptotic factors were upregulated only in LCKO‐KI. Finally, Tfr2‐KI hearts presented an increased Ferritin‐H and a decreased Ferroportin1, whereas LCKO‐KI hearts displayed an upregulation of Ferritin‐L chain and DMT1/Hamp‐RNA.

In conclusion, Tfr2β isoform is involved in cardiac iron metabolism and its silencing leads to a protected phenotype (antioxidants, RISK, and/or SAFE upregulation) against I/R challenging. Iron‐dependent signals involved in cardioprotection seem to be positively affected by Tfr2β downregulation and subsequent Ferritins upregulation. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(5):360–371, 2015
Less increase of copeptin and MR‐proADM due to intervention with selenium and coenzyme Q10 combined: Results from a 4‐year prospective randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial among elderly Swedish citizens
Authors: Alehagen Urban , Aaseth Jan , Johansson Peter
Published: February 2017

Intervention with selenium and coenzyme Q10 have recently been found to reduce mortality and increase cardiac function. The mechanisms behind these effects are unclear. As selenium and coenzyme Q10 is involved in the anti‐oxidative defence, the present study aimed to evaluate effects of selenium and coenzyme Q10 on copeptin and adrenomedullin as oxidative stress biomarkers. Therefore 437 elderly individuals were included and given intervention for 4 years. Clinical examination and blood samples were undertaken at start and after 18 and 48 months. Evaluations of copeptin and MR‐proADM changes were performed using repeated measures of variance. Cardiovascular mortality was evaluated using a 10‐year‐period of follow‐up, and presented in Kaplan‐Meier plots. A significant increase in copeptin level could be seen in the placebo group during the intervention period (from 9.4 pmol/L to 15.3 pmol/L), compared to the active treatment group. The difference between the groups was confirmed in the repeated measurement of variance analyses (P = 0.031) with less copeptin increase in the active treatment group. Furthermore, active treatment appeared to protect against cardiovascular death both in those with high and with low copeptin levels at inclusion. Less increase of MR‐proADM could also be seen during the intervention in the active treatment group compared to controls (P=0.026). Both in those having an MR‐proADM level above or below median level, significantly less cardiovascular mortality could be seen in the active treatment group (P=0.0001, and P=0.04 respectively). In conclusion supplementation with selenium and coenzyme Q10 during four years resulted in less concentration of both copeptin and MR‐proADM. A cardioprotective effect of the supplementation was registered, irrespective of the initial levels of these biomarkers, and this protection was recognized also after 10 years of observation. © 2015 BioFactors, 41(6):443–452, 2015
Self‐efficacy or perceived behavioural control: Which influences consumers' physical activity and healthful eating behaviour maintenance?
Authors: Parkinson Joy , David Patricia , Rundle‐Thiele Sharyn
Published: February 2017

This research investigated the role of a commercial program, Michelle Bridges 12 Week Body Transformation (MB12WBT), that uses a variety of tools including social support to influence weight management behaviours such as exercising and eating healthfully. The need for research into weight management remains current given obesity rates have continued to increase in recent decades. Weight management is a complex behaviour that for many consumers involves barriers that influence their commitment to continue exercising and eating healthily. The Theory of Planned Behaviour is frequently used to explain, and to a lesser extent predict, behaviours such as physical activity and healthy eating; however, there is much debate as to whether a perceived behavioural control variable or self‐efficacy is the best predictor of behaviour. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse data from a sample of 724 respondents who answered a baseline and three month follow‐up survey. The analysis revealed self‐efficacy and perceived behavioural control were two distinct constructs. Self‐efficacy was a better predictor of behaviour than perceived behavioural control variables as suggested in the original Theory of Planned Behaviour. Furthermore, self‐efficacy had a significant impact on exercising and eating healthfully behaviour. The findings and implications for both behaviour change theory and practice are discussed.
Bleomycin‐induced flagellate hyperpigmentation
Authors: Larson Krista N. , Gagnon Amy L. , Wilson Barbara B.
Published: February 2017

Key Clinical Message

A 27‐year old male with Hodgkin's lymphoma was treated with combined chemotherapy that included bleomycin. He presented with pruritic erythematous, edematous linear lesions and was diagnosed to have flagellate hyperpigmentation, a rare side effect of bleomycin chemotherapy.
Neonatal mucolipidosis type II alpha/beta due to compound heterozygosity for a known and novel GNPTAB mutation, and a concomitant heterozygous change in SERPINF1 inherited from the mother
Authors: Wood Kirsten A. , Zambrano Regina M. , Cheek Bradley J. , Arcement Christopher , Haymon Marie , Steinkampf Jessica , Sampath Srirangan , Hyland James C. , Lacassie Yves
Published: February 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report on a newborn with IUGR, rhizomelic dwarfism, and suspected chondrodysplasia punctata. At birth, OI was suspected; however, a skeletal survey suggested ML II alpha/beta. Sequencing revealed compound heterozygosity for a reported pathogenic and novel but expected pathogenic GNPTAB variant. Molecular testing for autosomal recessive OI identified a SERPINF1 variant.
Correlation between Microstructure Evolution of a Well‐Defined Cubic Palladium Catalyst and Selectivity during Acetylene Hydrogenation
Authors: Niu Yiming , Zhang Bingsen , Luo Jingjie , Zhang Liyun , Chen Cheng‐Meng , Su Dang Sheng
Published: February 2017

The varied surface structures of a Pd catalyst showed different catalytic performances in the partial hydrogenation of acetylene. The exposed Pd (1 0 0) facet is considered to be the most selective of all other facets for the formation of ethylene, but it is unstable and the fine structure needs to be revealed during the reaction. Herein, the evolution of the surface structure of cubic Pd nanoparticles, which are all bound with (1 0 0) facets, was studied by transmission electron microscopy in the partial hydrogenation of acetylene. Furthermore, the relation between the varying surface structure and the activity/selectivity was correlated. The (1 0 0) facets of Pd were transformed into stepped facets during the reaction, derived by adsorption/desorption of the reactants and energy compensation, which was the main reason for the decrease in the selectivity towards ethylene.
Catalytic Formation of Silicon–Heteroatom (N, P, O, S) Bonds
Authors: Kuciński Krzysztof , Hreczycho Grzegorz
Published: February 2017

Silicon and its compounds with other heteroatoms have received considerable attention, particularly because of their applicative ability. Silicon forms a large number of compounds with other p‐block elements (e.g., C, N, S, O, F, Cl, and others). All of them affect practical chemistry to some extent and are characterized by unique properties. This article highlights recent developments and covers the literature from the last 10 years. It is mainly focused on catalytic methods for silicon–nitrogen, silicon–phosphorus, silicon–oxygen, and silicon–sulfur bond formation. The scope and applications of these practical compounds will also be discussed.
Pd Nanoparticles Decorated on Hypercrosslinked Microporous Polymer: A Highly Efficient Catalyst for the Formylation of Amines through Carbon Dioxide Fixation
Authors: Molla Rostam Ali , Bhanja Piyali , Ghosh Kajari , Islam Sk Safikul , Bhaumik Asim , Islam Sk Manirul
Published: February 2017

CO2 fixation reaction is one of the most challenging chemical transformations not only in the context of environmental remediation but also for effective utilization of abundant carbon sources in nature. Here, we have stabilized palladium nanoparticles (NPs) at the surfaces of a hypercrosslinked porous polymer bearing carbazole and α,α′‐dibromo‐p‐xylene monomeric units to obtain a Pd@HMP‐1 nanocatalyst. The material has been thoroughly characterized by powder XRD, high‐resolution (HR)‐TEM, field‐emission (FE)‐SEM, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), thermogravimetric (TGA), and FTIR analysis. Pd@HMP‐1 showed excellent catalytic activity towards formylation of amines by carbon dioxide fixation under mild reaction conditions. The high surface area and nitrogen‐rich porous surface make the polymer a suitable support for the palladium nanoparticles and endow it with high recycling efficiency in this CO2 fixation reaction.
An Eco‐Friendly, Tunable and Scalable Method for Producing Porous Functional Nanomaterials Designed Using Molecular Interactions
Authors: Manning Joseph R. H. , Yip Thomas W. S. , Centi Alessia , Jorge Miguel , Patwardhan Siddharth V.
Published: February 2017

Despite significant improvements in the synthesis of templated silica materials, post‐synthesis purification remains highly expensive and renders the materials industrially unviable. In this study this issue is addressed for porous bioinspired silica by developing a rapid room‐temperature solution method for complete extraction of organic additives. Using elemental analysis and N2 and CO2 adsorption, the ability to both purify and controllably tailor the composition, porosity and surface chemistry of bioinspired silica in a single step is demonstrated. For the first time the extraction is modelled using molecular dynamics, revealing that the removal mechanism is dominated by surface‐charge interactions. This is extended to other additive chemistry, leading to a wider applicability of the method to other materials. Finally the environmental benefits of the new method are estimated and compared with previous purification techniques, demonstrating significant improvements in sustainability.
Spatial planning for fisheries in the Northern Adriatic: working toward viable and sustainable fishing
Authors: Bastardie Francois , Angelini Silvia , Bolognini Luca , Fuga Federico , Manfredi Chiara , Martinelli Michela , Nielsen J. Rasmus , Santojanni Alberto , Scarcella Giuseppe , Grati Fabio
Published: February 2017

Given the great overfishing of the demersal resources in the Northern Adriatic Sea (geographical sub‐area [GSA] 17), along with the fishing pressure in marine habitats, evidence strongly supports the need to evaluate appropriate management approaches. Several fishing activities operate simultaneously in the area, and the need to minimize conflicts among them is also a social concern. We applied a spatially and temporally explicit fish and fisheries model to assess the impact of a suite of spatial plans suggested by practitioners that could reduce the pressure on the four demersal stocks of high commercial interest in the GSA 17 and that could promote space sharing between mutually exclusive activities. We found that excluding trawlers from some areas has lowered the effective fishing effort, resulting in some economic losses but providing benefit to the set netters. Not every simulated fishing vessel is impacted in the same way because some fishing communities experienced different economic opportunities, particularly when a 6‐nautical mile buffer zone from the coast was implemented in the vicinity of important fishing grounds. Along this buffer zone, the four stocks were only slightly benefiting from the protection of the area and from fewer discards. In contrast, assuming a change in the ability of the population to disperse led to a large effect: Some fish became accessible in the coastal waters, therefore increasing the landings for range‐limited fishers, but the discard rate of fish also increased, greatly impairing the long‐term biomass levels. Our evaluation, however, confirmed that no effort is displaced onto vulnerable benthic habitats and to grounds not suitable for the continued operation of fishing. We conclude that the tested spatial management is helpful, but not sufficient to ensure sustainable fishing in the area, and therefore, additional management measures should be taken. Our test platform investigates the interaction between fish and fisheries at a fine geographical scale and simulates data for varying fishing methods and from different harbor communities in a unified framework. We contribute to the development of effective science‐based inputs to facilitate policy improvement and better governance while evaluating trade‐offs in fisheries management and marine spatial planning.
Preadaptative Transactions and Institutional Change: Wolf‐critical activism in southwestern Finland
Authors: Hiedanpää Juha , Pellikka Jani
Published: February 2017

Finland has had problems protecting the grey wolf (Canis lupus) for decades. Over the past few years, the government of Finland has taken several steps to improve its policy on wolves. In this paper, we explore the grassroots activism that institutional adjustments have triggered. This work builds on ethnographic presence in two southwestern Finnish wolf territories. Theoretically, we draw from institutional theory and use transactions as the unit of analysis. We identify four ways in which wolf‐critical civil society has provided an institutional basis for particular changes: (i) questioning the purity of the wolf, (ii) making scientific evidence fallible, (iii) producing negative emotional effects and (iv) maintaining strong policy pressure against the presence of the wolf. In the discussion, we explain how these modifications have functioned. Actors critical of the wolf have exercised the politics of disturbance, produced various epistemic cues and created conditions for reframing existing rights and the emergence of new ones. Due to these bottom‐up preadaptive transactions, wolf‐policy‐related institutional adjustments have, in many respects, taken on volitional and spontaneous features. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
The importance of myocardial contractile reserve in predicting response to cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Kloosterman Mariëlle , Damman Kevin , Van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Rienstra Michiel , Maass Alexander H.
Published: February 2017

Aim

To perform a meta‐analysis and systematic review of published data to assess the relationship between contractile reserve and response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with heart failure.

Methods and results

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed and Cochrane for all papers published up to 26 April 2016, supplemented by manual searches of reference lists from retrieved articles. The search strategy yielded nine observational studies that met our eligibility criteria with a total of 767 patients of which 757 provided data for this analysis. Contractile reserve after dobutamine infusion was present in 496 patients (66%). During follow‐up 474 patients (63%) qualified as CRT responders. The presence of contractile reserve was associated with a higher chance of CRT response (odds ratio 4.42, 95% confidence interval 2.15–9.07, P < 0.001) using a random‐effects model. There was evidence of publication bias. Imputation of missing studies attenuated the association to some extent, but the positive association between contractile reserve and CRT response remained with an odds ratio of 2.42 (95% confidence interval 1.17–5.05, P = 0.018).

Conclusion

The presence of global contractile reserve at baseline, as assessed by dobutamine stress echocardiography, is associated with a higher chance of CRT response in patients with heart failure.
Optimal energy‐efficient resource allocation in uplink SC‐FDMA networks
Authors: Orakzai Farooq Alam , Ahmad Ayaz , Khan Muhammad Toaha Raza , Iqbal Muhammad
Published: February 2017

Energy efficiency (EE) is currently the key performance evaluation metric for wireless networks. This paper considers the maximization of EE of an uplink wireless network that uses single‐carrier frequency division multiple access. The EE metric considered is bits/Joule, and a joint power and subchannel allocation problem is formulated to maximize this EE metric under constraints on the minimum achieved data rate of each user, the maximum transmit power budget of each user, and the exclusive as well as the consecutive allocation of single‐carrier frequency division multiple access subchannels among the users. This problem is a nonlinear and combinatorial optimization problem, and its optimal solution is prohibitively difficult. To make the problem tractable and find its optimal solution, it is transformed into an equivalent binary integer programming problem, which is a standard set partitioning problem. This approach named as the optimal energy‐efficient (OPT‐EE) algorithm finds optimal solution with significantly reduced computational complexity compared to the solution of the original problem. In addition, a heuristic suboptimal energy‐efficient approach is also investigated, which has acceptable performance with much less computational complexity compared to the OPT‐EE algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate the performance of OPT‐EE and heuristic suboptimal energy‐efficient algorithms and their comparison with the available work in the literature.
Towards a global higher‐frequency sea level dataset
Authors: Woodworth P. L. , Hunter J. R. , Marcos M. , Caldwell P. , Menéndez M. , Haigh I.
Published: February 2017

This paper describes the assembly of an updated quasi‐global dataset of higher‐frequency sea level information obtained from tide gauges operated by many agencies around the world. We believe that the construction of such a dataset is fundamental to scientific research in sea level variability and also to practical aspects of coastal engineering. A first version of the dataset was used in approximately a dozen published studies, and this second version is about twice the size, containing longer and more geographically representative sea level records. The dataset has acquired a digital object identifier and may be obtained from several sources. The paper mentions some of the merits of and deficiencies with the present version and takes a forward look at how the dataset may be updated in the future.
Calculations of solid‐state 43Ca NMR parameters: A comparison of periodic and cluster approaches and an evaluation of DFT functionals
Authors: Holmes Sean T. , Bai Shi , Iuliucci Robbie J. , Mueller Karl T. , Dybowski Cecil
Published: February 2017

We present a computational study of magnetic‐shielding and quadrupolar‐coupling tensors of 43Ca sites in crystalline solids. A comparison between periodic and cluster‐based approaches for modeling solid‐state interactions demonstrates that cluster‐based approaches are suitable for predicting 43Ca NMR parameters. Several model chemistries, including Hartree–Fock theory and 17 DFT approximations (SVWN, CA‐PZ, PBE, PBE0, PW91, B3PW91, rPBE, PBEsol, WC, PKZB, BMK, M06‐L, M06, M06‐2X, M06‐HF, TPSS, and TPSSh), are evaluated for the prediction of 43Ca NMR parameters. Convergence of NMR parameters with respect to basis sets of the form cc‐pVXZ (X = D, T, Q) is also evaluated. All DFT methods lead to substantial, and frequently systematic, overestimations of experimental chemical shifts. Hartree–Fock calculations outperform all DFT methods for the prediction of 43Ca chemical‐shift tensors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient photocatalytic degradation of 4‐nitrophenol over graphene modified TiO2
Authors: Liu Xing , Zhao Lanhua , Lai Hua , Li Sha , Yi Zhengji
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Photocatalytic degradation of organic compounds, including nitrophenol, is one of the most popular approaches to pollution control and disposal. Graphene‐based nanocomposites have attracted considerable attention in photocatalytic research owing to their excellent electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. In this work, TiO2 material was modified with graphene by a hydrothermal method, the photocatalytic performance of the prepared catalyst was evaluated by degradation of 4‐nitrophenol, which is a highly toxic, stable and carcinogenic organic pollutant.

RESULTS

The characterization results showed that the low amount of graphene disperses well over TiO2 and it does not influence the crystal phase, but makes the specific surface area of graphene/TiO2 greater than that of TiO2. Compared with TiO2, graphene/TiO2 exhibits enhanced photocatalytic activity for the degradation of 4‐nitrophenol under simulated solar irradiation.

CONCLUSION

The enhanced activity of photo‐degradation could be attributed to the involved graphene being beneficial to charge transportation and separation of photogenerated charge carriers, and providing more surface active sites for degradation reaction of the target pollutant. The present result highlights the important application of graphene as a novel carbon material in treating highly toxic pollutant through photocatalysis technology. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Towards an extractive bioconversion of 3‐hydroxypropionic acid: study of inhibition phenomena
Authors: Burgé Gregoire , Moussa Marwen , Saulou‐Bérion Claire , Chemarin Florian , Kniest Mariane , Allais Florent , Spinnler Henry‐Eric , Athès Violaine
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

3‐hydroxypropionic acid (3‐HP) microbial synthesis through glycerol bioconversion by Lactobacillus reuteri is at the moment characterized by too low performances to consider production at industrial scale. To avoid its toxic accumulation in the medium and to recover this molecule of interest, 3‐HP in situ reactive extraction from bioconversion broth was investigated using a hollow fiber membrane contactor (HFMC) in order to intensify its production. The so‐called integrated system was compared with the conventional bioconversion system. The impact of the extractive bioconversion on the overall production performance and on cell physiological state was studied.

RESULTS

Results underlined drastic inhibitory effects on the producing bacteria, especially under extractive bioconversion conditions despite the use of a HFMC supposed to avoid direct contact between organic phase and bacteria. Indeed, the extractant phase components (trioctylamine in n‐decanol) were found to be toxic for the cells (due to solubility and by direct contact). These phenomena were increased by the presence of 3‐hydroxypropionaldehyde (3‐HPA) and 3‐HP produced during glycerol bioconversion. These cumulative effects induced complete loss of the cell membrane integrity and esterase activity after 1.5 h of extractive bioconversion. When the bioconversion was conducted alone, the bacterial inhibition was lower, as around 50% of L. reuteri cells remained active with unaltered membrane after 3 h. Hypotheses concerning the mechanisms of action of the observed inhibitions were proposed and discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlighted the importance of performing such an integrative approach to address specific questions prior to the optimization of the whole process. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Oropouche virus is detected in peripheral blood leukocytes from patients
Authors: de Souza Luna Luciano Kleber , Rodrigues Alcir Humberto , Santos Rodrigo Ivo Marques , Sesti‐Costa Renata , Criado Miriã Ferreira , Martins Ronaldo B. , Silva Maria Lúcia , Delcaro Luana Sella , Proença‐Modena Jose Luiz , Figueiredo Luiz Tadeu Moraes , Acrani Gustavo Olszanski , Arruda Eurico
Published: February 2017

Oropouche virus (OROV) is a frequent cause of arboviral febrile disease in the Amazon. The present report describes studies done in two patients, one of them; the first OROV human case acquired outside of the Amazon, which have revealed for the first time the presence of OROV in peripheral blood leukocytes. This novel finding raises important issues regarding pathogenesis of human infections and may offer a new tool, for the rapid diagnosis of this neglected infection. J. Med. Virol. 89:1108–1111, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Platelet rich plasma promotes skeletal muscle cell migration in association with up‐regulation of FAK, paxillin, and F‐Actin formation
Authors: Tsai Wen‐Chung , Yu Tung‐Yang , Lin Li‐Ping , Lin Mioa‐Sui , Tsai Ting‐Ta , Pang Jong‐Hwei S.
Published: February 2017

Platelet rich plasma (PRP) contains various cytokines and growth factors which may be beneficial to the healing process of injured muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect and molecular mechanism of PRP on migration of skeletal muscle cells. Skeletal muscle cells intrinsic to Sprague–Dawley rats were treated with PRP. The cell migration was evaluated by transwell filter migration assay and electric cell‐substrate impedance sensing. The spreading of cells was evaluated microscopically. The formation of filamentous actin (F‐actin) cytoskeleton was assessed by immunofluorescence staining. The protein expressions of paxillin and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) were assessed by Western blot analysis. Transfection of paxillin small‐interfering RNA (siRNAs) to muscle cells was performed to validate the role of paxillin in PRP‐mediated promotion of cell migration. Dose‐dependently PRP promotes migration of and spreading and muscle cells. Protein expressions of paxillin and FAK were up‐regulated dose‐dependently. F‐actin formation was also enhanced by PRP treatment. Furthermore, the knockdown of paxillin expression impaired the effect of PRP to promote cell migration. It was concluded that PRP promoting migration of muscle cells is associated with up‐regulation of proteins expression of paxillin and FAK as well as increasing F‐actin formation. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2506–2512, 2017.
Dynamical analysis of dislocation‐associated factors in total hip replacements by hardware‐in‐the‐loop simulation
Authors: Geier Andreas , Kluess Daniel , Grawe Robert , Herrmann Sven , D'Lima Darryl , Woernle Christoph , Bader Rainer
Published: February 2017

Since dislocation of total hip replacements (THR) remains a clinical problem, its mechanisms are still in the focus of research. Previous studies ignored the impact of soft tissue structures and dynamic processes or relied on simplified joint contact mechanics, thus, hindered a thorough understanding. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to use hardware‐in‐the‐loop (HiL) simulation to analyze systematically the impact of varying implant positions and designs as well as gluteal and posterior muscle function on THR instability under physiological‐like loading conditions during dynamic movements. A musculoskeletal multibody model emulated the in situ environment of the lower extremity during deep sit‐to‐stand with femoral adduction maneuver while a six‐axis robot moved and loaded a THR accordingly to feed physical measurements back to the multibody model. Commercial THRs with hard‐soft bearings were used in the simulation with three different head diameters (28, 36, 44 mm) and two offsets (M, XL). Cup inclination of 45°, cup anteversion of 20°, and stem anteversion of 10° revealed to be outstandingly robust against any instability‐related parameter variation. For the flexion motion, higher combined anteversion angles of cup and stem seemed generally favorable. Total hip instability was either deferred or even avoided even in the presence of higher cup inclination. Larger head diameters (>36 mm) and femoral head offsets (8 mm) deferred occurrence of prosthetic and bone impingement associated with increasing resisting torques. In summary, implant positioning had a much higher impact on total hip stability than gluteal insufficiency and impaired muscle function. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2557–2566, 2017.