bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐performance polymer‐supported extractants with phosphonate ligands for scandium(III) separation
Authors: Cui Hongmin , Chen Ji , Li Hailian , Zou Dan , Liu Yu , Deng Yuefeng
Published: March 2016

As the market demand for scandium has grown, a great deal of interest has been generated in its recovery. To substantially simplify the process and provide a green alternative for scandium separation, novel polymer‐supported extractants containing di(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphonate and bis(2,4,4‐trimethylpentyl) phosphonate, [D201][DEHP] and [D201][C272] are proposed because they demonstrate improved adsorption capacity and selectivity toward scandium(III). Scandium(III) adsorption is significantly affected by the solution pH, with the maximum adsorption occurring at a pH of approximately 0.78. The batch adsorption data fit well with the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models. A combination of the Fourier transform infrared and XPS spectra suggest that the complexation of oxygen atoms in phosphate groups with scandium(III) is the predominant adsorption mechanism. Additionally, the two resins were used to recover scandium from leaching liquor of nickel laterite ore. [D201][DEHP] exhibits unusual selectivity for scandium and low competitive behavior with other metals, thus increasing its market potential. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 2479–2489, 2016
Oblique facial clefts in Johanson–Blizzard syndrome
Authors: Corona‐Rivera Jorge Román , Zapata‐Aldana Eugenio , Bobadilla‐Morales Lucina , Corona‐Rivera Alfredo , Peña‐Padilla Christian , Solis‐Hernández Elizabeth , Guzmán Celina , Richmond Erick , Zahl Christian , Zenker Martin , Sukalo Maja
Published: March 2016

Johanson–Blizzard syndrome (JBS) is considered as an infrequent, but clinically easily recognizable autosomal recessive entity by the pathognomonic combination of congenital exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and hypoplastic alae nasi, in addition to other distinctive findings such as scalp defects, hypothyroidism, and rectourogenital malformations. There are few reports of patients with JBS in association with facial clefting, referring all to types 2 to 6 of Tessier's classification that can be characterized properly as oblique facial clefts (OFCs). We describe the clinical aspects in four patients with JBS and extensive OFCs. In all of them, the diagnosis of JBS was confirmed by the demonstration of homozygous or compound‐heterozygous mutations in theUBR1gene. Additionally, we review three previously reported cases of JBS with OFCs. Taking into account a number of approximately 100 individuals affected by JBS that have been published in the literature we estimate that the frequency of OFCs in JBS is between 5% and 10%. This report emphasizes that extensive OFCs may be the severe end of the spectrum of facial malformations occurring in JBS. No obvious genotype phenotype correlation could be identified within this cohort. Thus,UBR1should be included within the list of contributory genes of OFCs, although the exact mechanism remains unknown. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis and Structural Elucidation of Unusual Oxindole Alkaloid Leucolusine
Authors: Pandey Ganesh , Khamrai Jagadish
Published: March 2016

The total synthesis of both diastereomers of the unusual tetracyclic ring‐opened oxindole alkaloid leucolusine is described. The absolute configuration of the natural leucolusine at the C3 center of the oxindole ring is established by diastereoselective synthesis. Key steps of the synthesis include the synthesis of the piperidine‐tetrahydrofuran moiety and construction of leucolusine via N‐alkylation of the octahydrofuro[2,3‐b]pyridine ring.
Social rank versus affiliation: Which is more closely related to leadership of group movements in Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana)?
Authors: Wang Xi , Sun Lixing , Sheeran Lori K. , Sun Bing‐Hua , Zhang Qi‐Xin , Zhang Dao , Xia Dong‐Po , Li Jin‐Hua
Published: March 2016

Research on leadership is a critical step for understanding collective decision making. However, only 4 of the 22 extant macaque species have been examined for the impact of social rank and affiliation on the initiation of collective movement. It is far from clear whether such impact exists and, if so, how it works among other macaques. To answer these questions, we investigated free‐ranging, Tibetan macaques’ (Macaca thibetana) group departures from a provisioning area and tested two alternative hypotheses: personal versus distributed leadership. Personal leadership predicts that a single, highest ranking individual initiates the most group movements, whereas distributed leadership predicts that different members lead the group on different occasions and affiliative individuals have more initiations. We recorded how often and how successfully adults initiated group movements from a provisioning area into the forest, and related these variables to the duration of interindividual proximity and grooming time in the forest. All adults initiated group movements, but did so variably. Social rank was related neither to the number of successful initiations nor to the success ratio of initiations. By contrast, eigenvector centrality based on proximity relations was positively correlated with the number and ratio of successful initiations. Moreover, successful initiations were positively correlated with social grooming. Overall, Tibetan macaques showed a pattern of distributed leadership. Our study demonstrated the relationship between social affiliation and individual leadership in a macaque society. Am. J. Primatol. 78:816–824, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful enrichment and recovery of whole mitochondrial genomes from ancient human dental calculus
Authors: Ozga Andrew T. , Nieves‐Colón Maria A. , Honap Tanvi P. , Sankaranarayanan Krithivasan , Hofman Courtney A. , Milner George R. , Lewis Cecil M. , Stone Anne C. , Warinner Christina
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Archaeological dental calculus is a rich source of host‐associated biomolecules. Importantly, however, dental calculus is more accurately described as a calcified microbial biofilm than a host tissue. As such, concerns regarding destructive analysis of human remains may not apply as strongly to dental calculus, opening the possibility of obtaining human health and ancestry information from dental calculus in cases where destructive analysis of conventional skeletal remains is not permitted. Here we investigate the preservation of human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in archaeological dental calculus and its potential for full mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) reconstruction in maternal lineage ancestry analysis.

Materials and Methods

Extracted DNA from six individuals at the 700‐year‐old Norris Farms #36 cemetery in Illinois was enriched for mtDNA using in‐solution capture techniques, followed by Illumina high‐throughput sequencing.

Results

Full mitogenomes (7–34×) were successfully reconstructed from dental calculus for all six individuals, including three individuals who had previously tested negative for DNA preservation in bone using conventional PCR techniques. Mitochondrial haplogroup assignments were consistent with previously published findings, and additional comparative analysis of paired dental calculus and dentine from two individuals yielded equivalent haplotype results. All dental calculus samples exhibited damage patterns consistent with ancient DNA, and mitochondrial sequences were estimated to be 92–100% endogenous. DNA polymerase choice was found to impact error rates in downstream sequence analysis, but these effects can be mitigated by greater sequencing depth.

Discussion

Dental calculus is a viable alternative source of human DNA that can be used to reconstruct full mitogenomes from archaeological remains. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:220–228, 2016. © 2016 The Authors American Journal of Physical Anthropology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RESOLVE: bioabsorbable steroid‐eluting sinus implants for in‐office treatment of recurrent sinonasal polyposis after sinus surgery: 6‐month outcomes from a randomized, controlled, blinded study
Authors: Forwith Keith D. , Han Joseph K. , Stolovitzky J. Pablo , Yen David M. , Chandra Rakesh K. , Karanfilov Boris , Matheny Keith E. , Stambaugh James W. , Gawlicka Anna K.
Published: March 2016

Background

Patients with recurrent sinonasal polyposis after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) have limited treatment options. Safety and efficacy were previously reported for a bioabsorbable sinus implant that elutes mometasone furoate for 3 months. Here we summarize longer‐term outcomes.

Methods

A randomized, controlled, blinded study with 100 chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients who failed medical treatment and were considered candidates for revision ESS. Treated patients (n = 57) underwent in‐office implant placement. Control patients (n = 43) underwent a sham procedure. Endoscopic grading at 3 months by clinicians was corroborated by an independent review of randomized videoendoscopies by a panel of 3 sinus surgeons. Six‐month follow‐up included endoscopic grading and patient‐reported outcomes.

Results

At 6 months, treated patients experienced significant improvement in Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) score (p = 0.021) and >2‐fold improvement in mean nasal obstruction/congestion score (−1.06 ± 1.4 vs −0.44 ± 1.4; p = 0.124). Endoscopically, treated patients experienced significant reduction in ethmoid sinus obstruction (p < 0.001) and bilateral polyp grade (p = 0.018) compared to controls. Panel review confirmed a significant reduction in ethmoid sinus obstruction (p = 0.010) and 2‐fold improvement in bilateral polyp grade (p = 0.099), which reached statistical significance (p = 0.049) in a subset of 67 patients with baseline polyp burden ≥2 bilaterally. At 6 months, control patients were at 3.6 times higher risk of remaining indicated for ESS than treated patients.

Conclusion

The symptomatic and endoscopic improvements observed confirm the efficacy of the steroid‐eluting implant for in‐office treatment of CRSwNP after ESS. These longer‐term 6‐month study results demonstrate that the steroid‐eluting implant represents a durable, safe, and effective treatment strategy for this patient population.
Mutations in MME cause an autosomal‐recessive Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 2
Authors: Higuchi Yujiro , Hashiguchi Akihiro , Yuan Junhui , Yoshimura Akiko , Mitsui Jun , Ishiura Hiroyuki , Tanaka Masaki , Ishihara Satoshi , Tanabe Hajime , Nozuma Satoshi , Okamoto Yuji , Matsuura Eiji , Ohkubo Ryuichi , Inamizu Saeko , Shiraishi Wataru , Yamasaki Ryo , Ohyagi Yasumasa , Kira Jun‐ichi , Oya Yasushi , Yabe Hayato , Nishikawa Noriko , Tobisawa Shinsuke , Matsuda Nozomu , Masuda Masayuki , Kugimoto Chiharu , Fukushima Kazuhiro , Yano Satoshi , Yoshimura Jun , Doi Koichiro , Nakagawa Masanori , Morishita Shinichi , Tsuji Shoji , Takashima Hiroshi
Published: March 2016

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify new causes of Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease in patients with autosomal‐recessive (AR) CMT.

Methods

To efficiently identify novel causative genes for AR‐CMT, we analyzed 303 unrelated Japanese patients with CMT using whole‐exome sequencing and extracted recessive variants/genes shared among multiple patients. We performed mutation screening of the newly identified membrane metalloendopeptidase (MME) gene in 354 additional patients with CMT. We clinically, genetically, pathologically, and radiologically examined 10 patients with the MME mutation.

Results

We identified recessive mutations in MME in 10 patients. The MME gene encodes neprilysin (NEP), which is well known to be one of the most prominent beta‐amyloid (Aβ)‐degrading enzymes. All patients had a similar phenotype consistent with late‐onset axonal neuropathy. They showed muscle weakness, atrophy, and sensory disturbance in the lower extremities. All the MME mutations could be loss‐of‐function mutations, and we confirmed a lack/decrease of NEP protein expression in a peripheral nerve. No patients showed symptoms of dementia, and 1 patient showed no excess Aβ in Pittsburgh compound‐B positron emission tomography imaging.

Interpretation

Our results indicate that loss‐of‐function MME mutations are the most frequent cause of adult‐onset AR‐CMT2 in Japan, and we propose that this new disease should be termed AR‐CMT2T. A loss‐of‐function MME mutation did not cause early‐onset Alzheimer's disease. Identifying the MME mutation responsible for AR‐CMT could improve the rate of molecular diagnosis and the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of CMT. Ann Neurol 2016;79:659–672
Targeted Synthesis of Two Super‐Complex Zeolites with Embedded Isoreticular Structures
Authors: Shin Jiho , Xu Hongyi , Seo Seungwan , Guo Peng , Min Jung Gi , Cho Jung , Wright Paul A. , Zou Xiaodong , Hong Suk Bong
Published: March 2016

A novel structural coding approach combining structure solution, prediction, and the targeted synthesis of new zeolites with expanding complexity and embedded isoreticular structures was recently proposed. Using this approach, the structures of two new zeolites in the RHO family, PST‐20 and PST‐25, were predicted and synthesized. Herein, by extending this approach, the next two higher generation members of this family, PST‐26 and PST‐28, have been predicted and synthesized. These two zeolites have much larger unit cell volumes (422 655 Å3 and 614 912 Å3, respectively) than those of the lower generations. Their crystallization was confirmed by a combination of both powder X‐ray and electron diffraction techniques. Aluminate and water concentrations in the synthetic mixture were found to be the two most critical factors influencing the structural expansion of embedded isoreticular zeolites under the synthetic conditions studied herein.
Direct Observation of Ordered High‐Spin–Low‐Spin Intermediate States of an Iron(III) Three‐Step Spin‐Crossover Complex
Authors: Li Zhao‐Yang , Ohtsu Hiroyoshi , Kojima Tatsuhiro , Dai Jing‐Wei , Yoshida Takefumi , Breedlove Brian K. , Zhang Wei‐Xiong , Iguchi Hiroaki , Sato Osamu , Kawano Masaki , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: March 2016

A neutral mononuclear FeIII complex [FeIII(H‐5‐Br‐thsa‐Me)(5‐Br‐thsa‐Me)]⋅H2O (1; H2‐5‐Br‐thsa‐Me=5‐bromosalicylaldehyde methylthiosemicarbazone) was prepared that exhibited a three‐step spin‐crossover (SCO) with symmetry breaking and a 14 K hysteresis loop owing to strong cooperativity. Two ordered intermediate states of 1 were observed, 4HS–2LS and 2HS–4LS, which exhibited reentrant phase‐transition behavior. This study provides a new platform for examining multistability in SCO complexes.
Elucidation of Adsorbate Structures and Interactions on Brønsted Acid Sites in H‐ZSM‐5 by Synchrotron X‐ray Powder Diffraction
Authors: Lo Benedict T. W. , Ye Lin , Qu Jin , Sun Junliang , Zheng Junlin , Kong Dejing , Murray Claire A. , Tang Chiu C. , Tsang Shik Chi Edman
Published: March 2016

Microporous H‐ZSM‐5 containing one Brønsted acid site per asymmetric unit is deliberately chosen to host pyridine, methanol, and ammonia as guest molecules. By using new‐generation in situ synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction combined with Rietveld refinement, the slight but significant alteration in scattering parameters of framework atoms modified by the guest molecules enables the user to elucidate their adsorption geometries and interactions with the Brønsted acid sites in H‐ZSM‐5 in terms of atomic distances and angles within experimental errors. The conclusion, although demonstrated in the H‐ZSM‐5, is expected to be transferable to other zeolites. This approach provides a stepping stone towards the rational engineering of molecular interaction(s) with acid sites in zeolitic catalysis.
Kinetisch kontrolliertes, sequenzielles Wachstum von chiralen supramolekularen Copolymeren auf Oberflächen
Authors: Frisch Hendrik , Fritz Eva‐Corinna , Stricker Friedrich , Schmüser Lars , Spitzer Daniel , Weidner Tobias , Ravoo Bart Jan , Besenius Pol
Published: March 2016

Wir berichten über eine einfache Strategie zur Herstellung supramolekularer Copolymere an Goldoberflächen durch sukzessive Inkubation einer initiatorbeschichteten Oberfläche mit Lösungen aus gegensätzlich geladenen peptidischen Comonomeren. Ein ladungsreguliertes Wachstum des Polymers verlangsamt die Kinetik der Selbstorganisation in dem Maße, dass kinetisch gehemmte Copolymere im nahezu neutralen pH‐Bereich gebildet werden. Auf diese Weise erreichen wir eine Kontrolle der Polymerarchitektur auf drei Ebenen: Die β‐faltblattkodierte Peptidsequenz steuert eine Wachstumsrichtung der Polymere senkrecht zur Oberfläche, die Höhe der supramolekularen Copolymerbürsten wird durch den schrittweisen Aufbau des alternierenden Wachstums bestimmt, und eine Ortsauflösung in zwei Dimensionen wird mithilfe einer Mikrostrukturierung des Initiatormonomers erreicht. Die Programmierbarkeit der Polymerarchitektur ist besonders für die Entwicklung maßgeschneiderter Biomaterialien oder chiraler Grenzflächen für optoelektronische und sensorische Anwendungen von Interesse.
The Impact of Interlayer Electronic Coupling on Charge Transport in Organic Semiconductors: A Case Study on Titanylphthalocyanine Single Crystals
Authors: Zhang Zongpeng , Jiang Lang , Cheng Changli , Zhen Yonggang , Zhao Guangyao , Geng Hua , Yi Yuanping , Li Liqiang , Dong Huanli , Shuai Zhigang , Hu Wenping
Published: March 2016

Traditionally, it is believed that three‐dimensional transport networks are preferable to those of lower dimensions. We demonstrate that inter‐layer electronic couplings may result in a drastic decrease of charge mobilities by utilizing field‐effect transistors (FET) based on two phases of titanyl phthalocyanine (TiOPc) crystals. The α‐phase crystals with electronic couplings along two dimensions show a maximum mobility up to 26.8 cm2 V−1 s−1. In sharp contrast, the β‐phase crystals with extra significant inter‐layer electronic couplings show a maximum mobility of only 0.1 cm2 V−1 s−1. Theoretical calculations on the bulk crystals and model slabs reveal that the inter‐layer electronic couplings for the β‐phase devices will diminish remarkably the device charge transport abilities owing to the coupling direction perpendicular to the current direction. This work provides new insights into the impact of the dimensionality and directionality of the packing arrangements on charge transport in organic semiconductors.
Direct Electrophilic (Benzenesulfonyl)Difluoromethylthiolation with a Shelf‐Stable Reagent
Authors: Ismalaj Ermal , Le Bars Didier , Billard Thierry
Published: March 2016

The (benzenesulfonyl)difluoromethylsulfanyl (PhSO2CF2S) group is a valuable substituent with specific properties which can provide access to new applications of fluoroalkylthiolated compounds. Direct introduction of this moiety can be performed by in an electrophilic manner by using a new shelf‐stable reagent, namely a (benzenesulfonyl)difluoromethanesulfenamide. Furthermore, mild magnesium‐mediated reduction of the PhSO2CF2S group leads to a facile synthesis of difluoromethylthiolated molecules and their deuterated analogs.
Molybdenum Speciation and its Impact on Catalytic Activity during Methane Dehydroaromatization in Zeolite ZSM‐5 as Revealed by Operando X‐Ray Methods
Authors: Lezcano‐González Inés , Oord Ramon , Rovezzi Mauro , Glatzel Pieter , Botchway Stanley W. , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Beale Andrew M.
Published: March 2016

Combined high‐resolution fluorescence detection X‐ray absorption near‐edge spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray emission spectroscopy have been employed under operando conditions to obtain detailed new insight into the nature of the Mo species on zeolite ZSM‐5 during methane dehydroaromatization. The results show that isolated Mo–oxo species present after calcination are converted by CH4into metastable MoCxOyspecies, which are primarily responsible for C2Hx/C3Hxformation. Further carburization leads to MoC3clusters, whose presence coincides with benzene formation. Both sintering of MoC3and accumulation of large hydrocarbons on the external surface, evidenced by fluorescence‐lifetime imaging microscopy, are principally responsible for the decrease in catalytic performance. These results show the importance of controlling Mo speciation to achieve the desired product formation, which has important implications for realizing the impact of CH4as a source for platform chemicals.
Glass Formation of a Coordination Polymer Crystal for Enhanced Proton Conductivity and Material Flexibility
Authors: Chen Wenqian , Horike Satoshi , Umeyama Daiki , Ogiwara Naoki , Itakura Tomoya , Tassel Cédric , Goto Yoshihiro , Kageyama Hiroshi , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: March 2016

The glassy state of a two‐dimensional (2D) Cd2+ coordination polymer crystal was prepared by a solvent‐free mechanical milling process. The glassy state retains the 2D structure of the crystalline material, albeit with significant distortion, as characterized by synchrotron X‐ray analyses and solid‐state multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. It transforms to its original crystal structure upon heating. Thus, reversible crystal‐to‐glass transformation is possible using our new processes. The glass state displays superior properties compared to the crystalline state; specifically, it shows anhydrous proton conductivity and a dielectric constant two orders of magnitude greater than the crystalline material. It also shows material flexibility and transparency.
Mild and Complete Carbonyl Ligand Scission on a Mononuclear Transition Metal Complex
Authors: Braunschweig Holger , Celik Mehmet Ali , Dewhurst Rian D. , Kachel Stephanie , Wennemann Benedikt
Published: March 2016

The complete scission of the carbon–oxygen bond of carbon monoxide, while frequently observed on bulk metals and with bimetallic and cluster transition metal complexes, is unknown with monometallic systems. Reaction of a zerovalent iron bis(borylene) complex with a cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene revealed a highly selective intramolecular cleavage of the C−O bond of a carbonyl ligand at room temperature, leading to the formation of a highly unusual iron complex containing a base‐stabilized (bora)alkylideneborane ligand. DFT investigation of the reaction mechanism suggested that the two Lewis acidic borylene boron atoms cooperate to cleave the C−O multiple bond.
Cobalt(II) acetylacetonate complex immobilized on aminosilane‐modified SBA‐15 as an efficient catalyst for epoxidation of trans‐stilbene with molecular oxygen
Authors: Tang Qinghu , Wang Yanyan , Zhang Jian , Qiao Ran , Xie Xiaopei , Wang Yi , Yang Yanhui
Published: March 2016

From environmental and economic points of view, it is highly desirable to develop a clean and efficient catalytic process to produce epoxides. An attractive approach is to use a solid, recyclable catalyst and molecular oxygen as the oxidant without any sacrificial reductant or other additives. Nonetheless, the catalysts reported up to now still cannot balance catalytic activity with epoxide selectivity. It is of great importance to explore novel catalysts with both high activity and selectivity for the epoxidation of olefins. In this work, cobalt(II) acetylacetonate (Co(acac)2) was covalently bonded to the silica surface of SBA‐15 molecular sieve by multi‐step grafting using 3‐aminopropytrimethoxysilane (APTS) as coupling agent. Characterizations with nitrogen physisorption, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis suggested that the metal complex was successfully immobilized on the aminosilane‐modified SBA‐15 surface and the channel structure remained intact. The synthesized Co(acac)2APTS@SBA‐15 catalyst was used in the epoxidation of trans‐stilbene (TS) with molecular oxygen. Compared to the sample prepared by the impregnation method as well as Co(acac)2 solutions under the same reaction conditions, the Co(acac)2 immobilized catalyst exhibited remarkably higher TS conversion and trans‐stilbene oxide (TSO) selectivity. An increase in TS conversion with Co content was observed when the Co loading was lower than 0.70% and the 0.70Co(acac)2APTS@SBA‐15 sample exhibited the best catalytic performance. Up to 50.1% of TS conversion could be achieved within 6 h, affording TSO selectivity as high as 96.7%. The superior catalytic performance of this particular catalyst is attributed to the high activity of the immobilized Co(acac)2 species on SBA‐15. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lignin as a green primary antioxidant for polypropylene
Authors: Gadioli Renan , Waldman Walter Ruggeri , De Paoli Marco Aurelio
Published: March 2016

Lignin and Irganox 1010, a hindered phenol antioxidant, are compared as a primary stabilizer in formulations for polypropylene (PP) by exposition to accelerated aging. The concentration of lignin was adjusted to match the concentration of hindered phenolic groups of the commercial stabilizer. Upon aging, lignin formulation retains the initial mechanical properties longer than the formulation with Irganox 1010. The ratio of the areas of the carbonyl and the hydroxyl infrared absorption bands is proposed as a method to evaluate the photodegradation process. In this aspect, the formulation with lignin also presents better results than the formulation with Irganox 1010. There are two hypotheses for the best performance of lignin in the studied conditions: lower leaching of lignin, due to its crosslinked nature, and leaching of low molar mass products of Irganox 1010 hydrolysis. These results indicate lignin, from the Kraft process of Eucalyptus wood, as a promising green substituent to synthetic hindered phenol stabilizers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43558.
Size‐controlled gold nanoparticles inside polyacrylamide microgels
Authors: Díaz M. , Barrera A. , López‐Cuenca S. , Martínez‐Salazar S. Y. , Rabelero M. , Ceja I. , Fernández V. V. A. , Aguilar J.
Published: March 2016

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of different sizes were synthesized into a crosslinked network of polyacrylamide (PAAm) microgels. PAAm was prepared by means of semicontinuous inverse heterophase polymerization under monomer‐starving conditions with a z‐average particle size of 384 ± 18 nm. AuNPs with controlled size were obtained by a reduction reaction of Au+3 to Au0 from a gold(III) chloride trihydrate (HAuCl4) solution inside microgel the crosslinked network (AuNP‐PAAm). The reduction reaction was verified for 2 h by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis). AuNP–PAAm exhibited a particle size between 288 ± 12 and 230 ± 15 nm at HAuCl4 concentrations of 0.4 and 1.3 mM, respectively. The AuNP–PAAms were observed by transmission electron microscopy, and their sizes were determined to be 19 ± 2 nm (1.3 mM) and 17 ± 2 nm (1.1 mM). With UV–vis spectroscopy, we detected the formation of AuNPs at a wavelength of 552 nm, and with X‐ray diffraction analysis, we proved that the crystal arrangement was face‐centered cubic. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43560.
Influence of diaminobenzoyl‐functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes on the nonisothermal curing kinetics, dynamic mechanical properties, and thermal conductivity of epoxy–anhydride composites
Authors: Pongsa Uraiwan , Samthong Chavakorn , Praserthdam Piyasan , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat
Published: March 2016

To obtain advanced materials with a high thermal dissipation, the addition of multiwalled carbon nanotubes containing diverse functionality groups, that is, as‐received multiwalled carbon nanotubes (AS‐MWCNTs) and diaminobenzoyl multiwalled carbon nanotubes (DA‐MWCNTs), to epoxy–anhydride composites was accomplished. According to nonisothermal differential scanning calorimetry analysis, the reactive functional groups present on the surfaces of the AS‐MWCNTs and DA‐MWCNTs accelerated the nucleophilic addition reaction of epoxy composites. Because of the difference in the reactivities of these functional groups toward epoxy groups, the distinction of fractional conversion and the reaction rate of the curing process were remarkably evident at the early stage. A suitable kinetic model was effectively elucidated with the Málek approach. The curing kinetics could best be described by a two‐parameter autocatalytic model as a truncated Šesták–Berggren model. The DA‐MWCNTs achieved effective load transfer and active heat conductive pathways; this resulted in good dynamic mechanical and thermal properties. As a result, the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A/DA‐MWCNTs constituted an effective system with enhanced heat dissipation of materials for electronic applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43567.
High flux nanofibrous composite microfiltration membrane prepared by melt blending extrusion: Application in liquid filtration
Authors: Xu Dandan , Zhu Keying , Zheng Xiaoting , Xiao Ru
Published: March 2016

High flux PP/EVOH nanofibrous composite microfiltration membrane (P/E‐NCMM) based on polypropylene (PP) (575 nm) and polyethylene‐co‐polyvinyl alcohol (EVOH) nanofibers (248 nm) with low operation pressure for liquid filtration was fabricated by melt blending extrusion. PP nanofibers as the scaffold played a supporting role, and EVOH nanofibers filled in the PP nanofibers network structure narrowed the pore size and improved the wettability. Taking advantages of PP and EVOH nanofibers, the nanofibrous composite membrane created fascinating features for liquid filtration. The experimental results showed that the P/E‐NCMM had high average pure water flux at low operating pressure. The P/E‐NCMM with 30 wt % PP nanofibers showed high water flux [450.9 L/(m2 h)] even at very low feeding pressure (0.05 MPa) with above 95% retention for TiO2 suspension. The results indicated that the P/E‐NCMM prepared by this method had great potential for the application in liquid filtration. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43585.
Acute Molecular Changes in Synovial Fluid Following Human Knee Injury: Association With Early Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Watt Fiona E. , Paterson Erin , Freidin Andrew , Kenny Mark , Judge Andrew , Saklatvala Jeremy , Williams Andy , Vincent Tonia L.
Published: March 2016

Objective

To investigate whether molecules found to be up‐regulated within hours of surgical joint destabilization in the mouse are also elevated in the analogous human setting of acute knee injury, how this molecular response varies between individuals, and whether it is related to patient‐reported outcomes in the 3 months after injury.

Methods

Seven candidate molecules were analyzed in blood and synovial fluid (SF) from 150 participants with recent structural knee injury at baseline (<8 weeks from injury) and in blood at 14 days and 3 months following baseline. Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score 4 (KOOS4) was obtained at baseline and 3 months. Patient and control samples were compared using Meso Scale Discovery platform assays or enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Six of the 7 molecules were significantly elevated in human SF immediately after injury: interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), monocyte chemotactic protein 1, matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP‐3), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP‐1), activin A, and tumor necrosis factor–stimulated gene 6 (TSG‐6). There was low‐to‐moderate correlation with blood measurements. Three of the 6 molecules were significantly associated with baseline KOOS4 (those with higher SF IL‐6, TIMP‐1, or TSG‐6 had lower KOOS4). These 3 molecules, MMP‐3, and activin A were all significantly associated with greater improvement in KOOS4 over 3 months, after adjustment for other relevant factors. Of these, IL‐6 alone significantly accounted for the molecular contribution to baseline KOOS4 and change in KOOS4 over 3 months.

Conclusion

Our findings validate relevant human biomarkers of tissue injury identified in a mouse model. Analysis of SF rather than blood more accurately reflects this response. The response is associated with patient‐reported outcomes over this early period, with SF IL‐6 acting as a single representative marker. Longitudinal outcomes will determine if these molecules are biomarkers of subsequent disease risk.
Multidimensional Germanium‐Based Materials as Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Qin Jinwen , Cao Minhua
Published: March 2016

Metallic germanium is an ideal anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), owing to its high theoretical capacity (1624 mA h g−1) and low operating voltage. Herein, we highlight recent advances in the development of Ge‐based anodes in LIBs, although improvements in their coulombic efficiency (CE), capacity retention, and rate performance are still required. One of the major concerns facing the development of Ge anodes is the controlled formation of microstructures. In this Focus Review, we summarize Ge‐based materials with different structural dimensions, that is, zero‐dimensional (0D), one‐dimensional (1D), two‐dimensional (2D), three‐dimensional (3D), and even monolithic and macroscale structures. Moreover, the design of Ge‐based oxide materials, as an effective route for achieving higher Li‐storage capacities and cycling performance, is also discussed. Finally, we briefly summarize new types of Ge‐based materials, such as ternary germanium oxides, germanium sulfides, and germanium phosphides, and predict that they will bring about a reformation in the field of LIBs.
Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Propindilactone G, Part 2: Enantioselective Construction of the Fully Functionalized BCDE Ring System
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Jun , You Lin , Wang Yue‐Fan , Li Yuan‐He , Liang Xin‐Ting , Zhang Bo , Yang Shou‐Liang , Su Qi , Chen Jia‐Hua , Yang Zhen
Published: March 2016

The enantioselective synthesis of the fully functionalized BCDE tetracyclic ring system of propindilactone G (A) is reported. Several synthetic methods were developed and applied to achieve this goal, including: 1) an asymmetric Diels–Alder reaction in the presence of Hayashi′s catalyst for the synthesis of optically pure key intermediate 3; 2) an intramolecular Pauson–Khand reaction (PKR) for the stereoselective synthesis of the BCDE ring with an all‐carbon chiral quaternary center at the C13 position by using the TMS‐substituted acetylene as the substrate; and 3) Pd‐catalyzed reductive hydrogenolysis for the stereoselective synthesis of the fully functionalized BCDE tetracyclic ring system. The chemistry developed herein provided a greater understanding of the total synthesis propindilactone G (A) and its analogues.
Facile Assembly of Benzo[b]naphtho[2,3‐d]azocin‐6(5 H)‐ones by a Palladium‐Catalyzed Double Carbometalation
Authors: Gong Xinxing , Chen Mo , Yao Liangqing , Wu Jie
Published: March 2016

The palladium‐catalyzed reaction of 2‐alkynylanilines with 2‐(2‐bromobenzylidene)cyclobutanone as an efficient route to 7,8‐dihydrobenzo[b]naphtho[2,3‐d]azocin‐6(5 H)‐ones was developed. The fused eight‐membered ring was constructed conveniently. During the reaction process, double carbometalation was involved, which resulted in excellent selectivity with the formation of three new bonds. This transformation is highly efficient and leads to fused polycycles in good to excellent yields with good functional group tolerance.
Unearthing the hidden resource: biomass from rootstock recovery
Authors: Picchi Gianni , Pari Luigi , Scarfone Antonio , Barontini Maurizio , Spinelli Raffaele
Published: March 2016

Termination of depleted orchards generates a large amount of residue, often turned into wood fuel. This operation is particularly difficult with rootstocks, which are laborious to extract and offer a very low‐quality fuel. The authors tested a new technology, designed for efficient rootstock extraction. Contrary to conventional excavator‐based technology, the new technology is able to cut and lift rootstocks in one single pass. A side‐by‐side comparative test was conducted on 16 sample plots, in a pear orchard. Clean rootstock weight ranged between 3 and 7 kg, and sample plot yield varied from 4 to 9 t ha−1 fresh rootstocks, depending on varietal. The new technology was five times more productive than the conventional technology, and allowed reduction of rootstock extraction cost by a factor of 3.8. The output–input energy balance was twice as favorable for the new technology, compared with the traditional one. No significant changes were found for what concerned rootstock contamination: the weight of raw rootstocks consisted of over 50% of soil, which would require a separate cleaning operation. Adoption of the new technology described in this paper may dramatically increase the viability of root biomass supply. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Know your neighbor: Microbiota and host epithelial cells interact locally to control intestinal function and physiology
Authors: Sommer Felix , Bäckhed Fredrik
Published: March 2016

Interactions between the host and its associated microbiota differ spatially and the local cross talk determines organ function and physiology. Animals and their organs are not uniform but contain several functional and cellular compartments and gradients. In the intestinal tract, different parts of the gut carry out different functions, tissue structure varies accordingly, epithelial cells are differentially distributed and gradients exist for several physicochemical parameters such as nutrients, pH, or oxygen. Consequently, the microbiota composition also differs along the length of the gut, but also between lumen and mucosa of the same intestinal segment, and even along the crypt‐villus axis in the epithelium. Thus, host‐microbiota interactions are highly site‐specific and the local cross talk determines intestinal function and physiology. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of site‐specific host‐microbiota interactions and discuss their functional relevance for host physiology.
A Progression to Transfer RIRD to the Natural Environment
Authors: Martinez Catherine K. , Betz Alison M. , Liddon Clare J. , Werle Rebecca L.
Published: March 2016

Response interruption and redirection has been shown to be effective for decreasing vocal stereotypy, but treatment effects in the natural environment have yet to be documented in the literature. A recent review indicated the paucity of studies that implemented response interruption and redirection during typically occurring activities or for sessions longer than 5–10 min. One method to promote generalization across settings may be stimulus control procedures. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the progression of the intervention from a highly structured to a more natural setting, and across longer durations. We also investigated the extent to which a signal could acquire stimulus control over stereotypy. Although we were unable to bring stereotypy under the inhibitory control of a signal alone, we maintained low levels of stereotypy in the natural environment and ultimately extended sessions up to 30 min. Clinical implications and areas for future research are discussed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Watch and wait after neoadjuvant therapy for rectal cancer
Authors: Dattani M , Moran B J
Published: March 2016

Meticulous follow-up needed
Upconversion Photoluminescence Properties of PbY2(MoO4)4:Er3+/Yb3+ Phosphors Synthesized by Microwave Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Lim Chang Sung
Published: March 2016

PbY
2−

x
(MoO4
)4:Er3+/Yb3+ phosphors with the correct doping concentrations of Er3+ and Yb3+ (x = Er3+ + Yb3+, Er3+ = 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and Yb3+ = 0.2, 0.45) were successfully synthesized using the microwave sol–gel method; their upconversion photoluminescence properties were investigated in detail. Well‐crystallized particles, formed after heat‐treatment at 900 °C for 16 h, showed a fine and homogeneous morphology with particle sizes of 2–5 µm. Under excitation at 980 nm, the PbY
1.7(MoO4
)4:Er0.1
Yb
0.2 and PbY
1.5(MoO4
)4:Er0.05
Yb
0.45 particles exhibited a strong 525‐nm emission band, a weak 550‐nm emission band in the green region, and a very weak 655‐nm emission band in the red region. The Raman spectra of the doped particles indicated the presence of strong peaks at higher and lower frequencies induced by disordered structures of PbY
2−

x
(MoO4
)4 by the incorporation of the Er3+ and Yb3+ ions into the crystal lattice, which resulted in the unit cell shrinkage accompanying the new phase formation of the MoO
4−x group.
The Emotional Child Witness Effect Survives Presentation Mode
Authors: Melinder Annika , Burrell Lisa , Eriksen Maria Olaussen , Magnussen Svein , Wessel Ellen
Published: March 2016

The emotional witness effect – the phenomenon whereby people are affected by the emotional manner in which a witness presents testimony – constitutes a possible source of wrongful decisions in legal contexts. One stereotypical view of abused children is that they should be sad when talking about their experiences of maltreatment, whereas children may in fact express a variety of emotional expressions when talking about abusive events. This raises the question as to whether there is an optimal mode in which to present child victim testimony that could reduce the possible influence of displayed emotions. In the present study, mock police interviews were carried out with female child actors, role‐playing the victims of physical abuse by their stepfather, telling the same story with four emotional expressions (neutral, sad, angry, or positive). Laypersons (N = 465) were presented with the interviews as transcripts with the emotional reactions of the child witness noted, audio recordings, or videotaped recordings. Participants then rated the credibility of the victim witness. Replicating previous results, the “sad” expression elicited the highest credibility ratings across all modes of presentations. Presentation mode affected ratings of credibility, with the transcript versions resulting in the highest ratings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanostructures from Synthetic Genetic Polymers
Authors: Taylor Alexander I. , Beuron Fabienne , Peak‐Chew Sew‐Yeu , Morris Edward P. , Herdewijn Piet , Holliger Philipp
Published: March 2016

Nanoscale objects of increasing complexity can be constructed from DNA or RNA. However, the scope of potential applications could be enhanced by expanding beyond the moderate chemical diversity of natural nucleic acids. Here, we explore the construction of nano‐objects made entirely from alternative building blocks: synthetic genetic polymers not found in nature, also called xeno nucleic acids (XNAs). Specifically, we describe assembly of 70 kDa tetrahedra elaborated in four different XNA chemistries (2′‐fluro‐2′‐deoxy‐ribofuranose nucleic acid (2′F‐RNA), 2′‐fluoroarabino nucleic acids (FANA), hexitol nucleic acids (HNA), and cyclohexene nucleic acids (CeNA)), as well as mixed designs, and a ∼600 kDa all‐FANA octahedron, visualised by electron microscopy. Our results extend the chemical scope for programmable nanostructure assembly, with implications for the design of nano‐objects and materials with an expanded range of structural and physicochemical properties, including enhanced biostability.
Comparison of intravascular optical frequency domain imaging versus intravascular ultrasound during balloon pulmonary angioplasty in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Ikeda Nobutaka , Kubota Shuji , Okazaki Toru , Hara Hisao , Hiroi Yukio
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The aims of this study are (1) to evaluate the safety and feasibility of using optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) during balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) procedures, (2) to assess the correlations between the vessel area (VA) and luminal area (LA) obtained by OFDI and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and (3) to compare inter‐ and intra‐observer variability among measurements taken from OFDI and IVUS images.

Background

The BPA in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is an evolving procedure.

Methods

Twenty‐three consecutive attempts of pair of OFDI and IVUS during BPA were evaluated. All complications that occurred during‐BPA and up to 48 hr post‐BPA were recorded. Using side branches as landmarks, 48 pairs of regions were chosen to compare measurements of VA and LA.

Results

OFDI images can be obtained without any procedurally related complications. Although the VA and LA measurements obtained by OFDI were smaller than those obtained by IVUS, high correlations were found (VA: r = 0.78, P < 0.0001 and LA: r = 0.75, P < 0.0001). Less inter‐ and intra‐observer variability was found when using measurements taken from OFDI versus IVUS images.

Conclusions

OFDI during BPA was safe and feasible. The reproducibility of OFDI imaging was excellent and offered a favorable addition to the BPA procedures. © 2016 The Authors Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Haemoptysis in a female with diabetes mellitus: a unique presentation of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, pulmonary tuberculosis, and Klebsiella peumoniae co‐infection
Authors: Ekwueme Chinonso , Otu Akaninyene Asuquo , Chinenye Sunny , Unachukwu Chioma , Oputa Reginald N. , Korubo Ibitrokoemi , Enang Ofem E.
Published: March 2016

Key Clinical Message

While chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA), pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), and Klebsiella pneumoniae pneumonia co‐infection is rare, we present a 50‐year‐old woman with uncontrolled diabetes who presented with these three diseases. There is considerable overlap in symptoms of PTB and CPA. Treatment with antifungals, anti‐tuberculosis therapy, and antibiotics is beneficial.
Quinazolinones from o‐Aminobenzonitriles by One‐Pot Sequential Selective Hydration/Condensation/Acceptorless Dehydrogenation Catalyzed by an Iridium Complex
Authors: Zhao Wei , Liu Pengcheng , Li Feng
Published: March 2016

A new strategy for the direct synthesis of quinazolinones from o‐aminobenzonitriles was proposed and accomplished. In the presence of [Cp*IrCl2]2 (Cp*=pentamethylcyclopentadienyl), a variety of desirable products was obtained easily through the one‐pot sequential selective hydration/condensation/acceptorless dehydrogenation. This protocol is highly attractive because it uses readily available starting materials, has a high atom efficiency, good to excellent yields, and minimal consumption of chemicals and energy. Notably, this research exhibited new potential for the development of transition‐metal‐catalyzed one‐pot sequential reactions that involve acceptorless dehydrogenation.
Hierarchical Nanoplatforms for High‐Performance Enzyme Biocatalysis under Denaturing Conditions
Authors: González‐Domínguez Elena , Comesaña‐Hermo Miguel , Mariño‐Fernández Rosalía , Rodríguez‐González Benito , Arenal Raul , Salgueiriño Verónica , Moldes Diego , Othman Abdelmageed M. , Pérez‐Lorenzo Moisés , Correa‐Duarte Miguel A.
Published: March 2016

The front cover artwork for Issue 07/2016 is provided by TeamNanoTech (TNT), the Magnetic Materials Group (MMG), and Bioengineering & Sustainable Processes (BIOSUV) at Universidade de Vigo (Spain), and the Institute of Nanoscience of Aragón (INA) at Universidad de Zaragoza (Spain). The image illustrates a novel multifunctional nanoplatform featuring a high enzyme loading capacity and remarkable recycling capabilities as an effective means to circumvent the limitations that hinder the implementation of enzymes in industrial biotechnology (image credit: Miguel Spuch‐Calvar). See the Communication itself at http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201501401.
A Facile and Efficient Modification of CNTs for Improved Fischer–Tropsch Performance on Iron Catalyst: Alkali Modification
Authors: Liu Renjie , Xu Yan , Li Zhenhua , Ma Xinbin
Published: March 2016

The front cover artwork for Issue 08/2016 is provided by Prof. Dr. Zhenhua Li, Prof. Dr. Xinbin Ma, and co‐workers from Tianjin University (P.R. China). The image shows that an iron catalyst supported on alkali‐modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibits extraordinary Fischer–Tropsch catalytic performance and efficient application to diesel production. See the Communication itself at http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201501219.