bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐dimensional analysis of alveolar wall destruction in the early stage of pulmonary emphysema
Authors: Kobayashi Yukihiro , Uehara Takeshi , Kawasaki Kenji , Sugano Mitsutoshi , Matsumoto Takehisa , Matsumoto Gou , Honda Takayuki
Published: September 2014

The morphological mechanism of alveolar wall destruction during pulmonary emphysema has not been clarified. The aim of this study was to elucidate this process three‐dimensionally. Lung specimens from five patients with pulmonary emphysema were used, and five controls with normal alveolar structure were also examined. Sections 150 μm thick were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, elastica, and silver impregnation, and immunostained with selected antibodies. We examined these sections three‐dimensionally using a laser confocal microscope and a light microscope. There were only a few Kohn's pores and no fenestrae in the normal alveoli from the controls. In the lungs of the emphysema patients a small rupture appeared in the extremely thin alveolar wall among the alveolar capillaries. This rupture enlarged to form a circle surrounded by the capillaries, which was called an alveolar fenestra. Two neighboring fenestrae fused by breakdown of the collapsed or cord‐like capillary between them to form a large fenestra. The large fenestrae fused repeatedly to become larger, and these were bordered by thick elastic fibers constructing an alveolar framework. Alveolar wall destruction during emphysema could start from small ruptures of the alveolar wall that become fenestrae surrounded by capillaries, which fuse repeatedly to become larger fenestrae rimmed with elastic fibers. The alveolar capillary network could initially prevent enlargement of the fenestrae, and the thick elastic fibers constituting the alveolar framework could secondarily prevent destruction of the alveolar wall structure. Clin. Anat. 28:227–234, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Design of web‐based interactive 3D concept maps: A preliminary study for an engineering drawing course
Authors: Violante Maria Grazia , Vezzetti Enrico
Published: September 2014

Concept map are not a new phenomenon in engineering education and are nowadays used to enhance “meaningful learning.” In literature a lot of works on the use of the concept maps in education exist, but not many within the “interactive” context. This study contributes to expand the framework of research on the development of web‐based 3D interactive concept maps. They incorporate web‐based 3D interactive images that support the learning of abstract and difficult topics in Engineering drawing course, motivating the students and increasing their attention. The effects of different learning strategies (2D concept mapping vs. web‐based 3D interactive concept mapping) on the learning outcomes and on the spatial ability are investigated. The results of this study shows that Web‐based 3D interactive concept maps compensates spatial ability deficits, that is, helps students who have low spatial ability to build an effective mental representation of the learning content. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:403–411, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21610
Current Approaches for RNA Labeling in Vitro and in Cells Based on Click Reactions
Authors: Schulz Daniela , Rentmeister Andrea
Published: September 2014

Over recent years, click reactions have become recognized as valuable and flexible tools to label biomacromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and glycans. Some of the developed strategies can be performed not only in aqueous solution but also in the presence of cellular components, as well as on (or even in) living cells. These labeling strategies require the initial, specific modification of the target molecule with a small, reactive moiety. In the second step, a click reaction is used to covalently couple a reporter molecule to the biomolecule. Depending on the type of reporter, labeling by the click reaction can be used in many different applications, ranging from isolation to functional studies of biomacromolecules. In this minireview, we focus on labeling strategies for RNA that rely on the click reaction. We first highlight click reactions that have been used successfully to label modified RNA, and then describe different strategies to introduce the required reactive groups into target RNA. The benefits and potential limitations of the strategies are critically discussed with regard to possible future developments.
Design, Synthesis and Characterization of fMLF‐Mimicking AApeptides
Authors: Hu Yaogang , Cheng Ni , Wu Haifan , Kang Samuel , Ye Richard D. , Cai Jianfeng
Published: September 2014

The tripeptide N‐formyl‐Met‐Leu‐Phe (fMLF) is a potent neutrophil chemoattractant and the reference agonist for the G protein‐coupled N‐formylpeptide receptor (FPR). As it plays a very important role in host defense and inflammation, there has been considerable interest in the development of fMLF analogues in the hope of identifying potential therapeutic agents. Herein we report the design, synthesis, and evaluation of AApeptides that mimic the structure and function of fMLF. The lead AApeptides induced calcium mobilization and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signal transduction pathways in FPR‐transfected rat basophilic leukemic (RBL) cells. More intriguingly, at high concentrations, certain AApeptides were more effective than fMLF in the induction of calcium mobilization. Their agonistic activity is further supported by their ability to stimulate chemotaxis and the production of superoxide in HL‐60 cells. Similarly to fMLF, these AApeptides are much more selective towards FPR1 than FPR2. These results suggest that the fMLF‐mimicking AApeptides might emerge as a new class of therapeutic agents that target FPRs.
Skinfold over toenail is pathognomonic for the popliteal pterygium syndrome in a Congolese family with large intrafamilial variability
Authors: Mubungu Gerrye , Lumaka Aimé , Matondo Rosette , Mbayabo Gloire , Tuka Deborah , Kayembe Claudarche , Mulowhe Didier , Molua Antoine , Tady Bruno‐Paul , Nkidiaka Emmanuel , Bunga Paulo , Lukusa Tshilobo Prosper , Devriendt Koenraad
Published: September 2014

Key Clinical Message

We report on three related Congolese popliteal pterygium syndrome (PPS) patients concordant only for the skinfold over the toenail. Mutation analysis revealed that the three affected individuals carried a heterozygous missense mutation in the Exon 4, NM_006147.2:c.250C>T; p.Arg84Cys. This is the first molecularly confirmed PPS family from central Africa.
Two interstitial rearrangements (16q deletion and 17p duplication) in a child with MR/MCA
Authors: Sanchez‐Jimeno Carolina , Bustamante‐Aragonés Ana , Infantes‐Barbero Fernando , Rodriguez De Alba Marta , Ramos Carmen , Trujillo‐Tiebas María Jose , Lorda‐Sánchez Isabel
Published: September 2014

Key Clinical Meassage

Patients with rare deletions in 16q12 and a duplication of 17p, both interstitial and de novo. Only seven cases have been described with these deletions and none of them presented other chromosomal abnormalities. The proband showed a complex phenotype with features found in patients with dup17p11.2 syndrome, deletions in 16q12.
Snapshots in surgery: incidentally discovered cryptorchidism
Authors: Nicholson Margaret F. , Sehgal Rishabh , Cunningham Robert , Martin Sean , Winter Desmond C.
Published: September 2014

Key Clinical Message

An 18‐year‐old was presented with a large inflamed appendix (compressed by the instrument) and a spermatic cord with right undescended testicle (cryptorchidism). Patients who undergo orchiopexy after age 12 years, or no orchiopexy, are 2–6 times as likely to have testicular cancer as those who undergo prepubertal orchiopexy.
Leishmania donovani bodies in bone marrow
Authors: Ali Natasha , Hussain Shabneez
Published: September 2014

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of a 5‐year‐old female, resident of Afghanistan, who presented with fever and massive splenomegaly. Bone marrow revealed Leishmania donovani bodies (LD bodies) in macrophages characterized by a kinetoplast and characteristic double dot appearance. She was diagnosed as visceral leishmaniasis which is transmitted by sandflies (Phlebotomus).
[M(CO)4(2,2′‐bipyridine)] (M=Cr, Mo, W) Complexes as Efficient Catalysts for Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 at a Gold Electrode
Authors: Tory Joanne , Setterfield‐Price Briony , Dryfe Robert A. W. , Hartl František
Published: September 2014

Group 6 complexes of the type [M(CO)4(bpy)] (M=Cr, Mo, W) are capable of behaving as electrochemical catalysts for the reduction of CO2 at potentials less negative than those for the reduction of the radical anions [M(CO)4(bpy)].−. Cyclic voltammetric, chronoamperometric and UV/Vis/IR spectro‐electrochemical data reveal that five‐coordinate [M(CO)3(bpy)]2− are the active catalysts. The catalytic conversion is significantly more efficient in N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) compared to tetrahydrofuran, which may reflect easier CO dissociation from 1e−‐reduced [M(CO)4(bpy)].− in the former solvent, followed by second electron transfer. The catalytic cycle may also involve [M(CO)4(H‐bpy)]− formed by protonation of [M(CO)3(bpy)]2−, especially in NMP. The strongly enhanced catalysis using an Au working electrode is remarkable, suggesting that surface interactions may play an important role, too.
Controlled Synthesis of Porous Coordination‐Polymer Microcrystals with Definite Morphologies and Sizes under Mild Conditions
Authors: Liu Qing , Yang Ji‐Min , Jin Li‐Na , Sun Wei‐Yin
Published: September 2014

Herein, we report a facile and convenient method for the synthesis of the porous coordination polymer MOF‐14 [Cu3(BTB)2] (H3BTB=4,4′,4′′‐benzene‐1,3,5‐triyl‐tribenzoic acid) as microcrystals with definite shapes and crystal facets controlled by the reaction medium at room temperature. The amount of sodium acetate added to the reaction system plays a crucial role in the shape evolution of MOF‐14 from rhombic dodecahedrons to truncated rhombic dodecahedrons and cubes with truncated edges and then to cubes. The addition of a base could accelerate the formation rate of crystal growth and increase the supersaturation of crystal growth, thus resulting in the formation of MOF‐14 cube crystals with high‐energy crystal facets. The morphological evolution was also observed for HKUST‐1 [Cu3(BTC)2] (H3BTC=1,3,5‐benzenetricarbocylic acid) from octahedrons to cubes, thus verifying the probable mechanism of the morphological transformation. The gas‐adsorption properties of MOF‐14 with different shapes were studied and reveal that the porous coordination‐polymer microcrystals display excellent and morphology‐dependent sorption properties.
Simultaneously Sizing and Quantitating Zeptomole‐Level DNA at High Throughput in Free Solution
Authors: Zhu Zaifang , Chen Huang , Chen Apeng , Lu Joann J. , Liu Shaorong , Zhao Meiping
Published: September 2014

Determining the sizes and measuring the quantities of DNA molecules are fundamental tasks in molecular biology. DNA sizes are usually evaluated by gel electrophoresis, but this method cannot simultaneously size and quantitate a DNA at low zeptomole (zmol) levels of concentration. We have recently developed a new technique, called bare‐narrow‐capillary/hydrodynamic‐chromatography or BaNC‐HDC, for resolving DNA based on their sizes without using any sieving matrices. In this report, we utilize BaNC‐HDC for measuring the sizes and quantities of DNA fragments at zmol to several‐molecule levels of concentration. DNA ranging from a few base pairs to dozens of kilo base pairs are accurately sized and quantitated at a throughput of 15 samples per hour, and each sample contains dozens of DNA strands of different lengths. BaNC‐HDC can be a cost‐effective means and an excellent tool for high‐throughput DNA sizing and quantitation at extremely low quantity level.
Versatile and Sustainable Synthesis of Cyclic Imides from Dicarboxylic Acids and Amines by Nb2O5 as a Base‐Tolerant Heterogeneous Lewis Acid Catalyst
Authors: Ali Md. Ayub , Siddiki S. M. A. Hakim , Kon Kenichi , Hasegawa Junya , Shimizu Ken‐ichi
Published: September 2014

Catalytic condensation of dicarboxylics acid and amines without excess amount of activating reagents is the most atom‐efficient but unprecedented synthetic method of cyclic imides. Here we present the first general catalytic method, proceeding selectively and efficiently in the presence of a commercial Nb2O5 as a reusable and base‐tolerant heterogeneous Lewis acid catalyst. The method is effective for the direct synthesis of pharmaceutically or industrially important cyclic imides, such as phensuximide, N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI), and unsubstituted cyclic imides from dicarboxylic acid or anhydrides with amines, hydroxylamine, or ammonia.
Selective hydrogenation of 3,4‐dimethoxybenzophenone in liquid phase over Pd/C catalyst in a slurry reactor
Authors: Tiwari Manishkumar S. , Yadav Ganapati D. , Ng Flora T. T.
Published: September 2014

Selective hydrogenation of benzophenone to benzhydrol is industrially relevant. In the current work, selective hydrogenation of 3,4‐dimethoxybenzophenone (3,4‐DMBP) to 3,4‐dimethoxybenzhydrol (3,4‐DMBH) was investigated over 5 % w/w Pd/C and 5 % w/w Pt/C as catalysts in a slurry reactor. The effects of hydrogen partial pressure (0.2–1 MPa), catalyst loading (2.0 × 10−4to 8.0 × 10−4 g/cm3), initial concentration of 3,4‐dimethoxybenzophenone (5.0 × 10−6to 1.5 × 10−4 mol/cm3) and temperature (40–70 °C) on rate of reaction and selectivity were studied. Effect of solvent such as methanol, ethanol, 2‐propanol and tetrahydrofuran (THF) was also investigated. 5 % w/w Pd/C was the better catalyst with THF as the best solvent, which gave 100 % conversion and 80 % selectivity in 1 h for 0.5 MPa hydrogen pressure at 60 °C. The Langmuir‐Hinshelwood‐Hougen‐Watson model was fitted. The intrinsic kinetics and mechanism of hydrogenation were established.
Development of a new family of food packaging bioplastics from cross‐linked gelatin based films
Authors: Biscarat Jennifer , Charmette Christophe , Sanchez José , Pochat‐Bohatier Céline
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this work was to develop green bioplastic preparation process from gelatin by using solvent‐free approach with efficient use of resources. Film plasticizing was achieved by adding polyethylene glycol (Mw = 200 g.mol−1). Different cross linking agents – glutaraldehyde (GTA), N‐hydroxysuccinimide (NHS), Bis(succinimidyl)nona(ethylene glycol) (BS(PEG)9) and ferulic acid (FA) were tested to obtain water resistant films suitable for gas permeability characterization. Functional properties (mechanical and gas transfer properties) of gelatin‐based films were determined. Gelatin films cross‐linked with FA presented very good gas barrier properties (48 and 175 cm3.µm/m2.day.kPa respectively for O2 and CO2), compared to synthetic polymers, equivalent to polar polymer like nylon 6 or polyethylene terephthalate and better than non‐polar polymers like high density or low density polyethylene. Swelling ratio measurements in water displayed gelatin/FA films resisted to water without breaking during 4 h compared to 1.5 h for pure gelatin films. Films could support saturated water vapour environment at 20 °C during 15 days without breaking. Gelatin/PEG200 films presented very good permselectivity towards CO2 and O2 (14.5). This value was reduced to 8 when cross‐linked with FA, and to 4 after PEG200 addition, presenting still interesting level. All these results confirmed that gelatin is a promising biobased polymer to prepare food packaging films.
Two Cluster‐Based Coordination Polymers Derived from [Et4N][Tp*WS3(CuBr)3] and CuCN: Isolation, Structures and Amplified Third‐Order Nonlinear Optical Responses
Authors: Liu Quan , Zhang Wenhua , Sun Zhenrong , Lang Jianping
Published: September 2014

Treatment of a W/Cu/S precursor [Et4N][Tp*WS3(CuBr)3] (1) with three equiv. of CuCN in DMF/MeCN/benzonitrile (or α‐tolunitrile) yielded two [Tp*WS3Cu3(µ3‐DMF)]‐based coordination polymers, [Tp*WS3Cu3(µ3‐DMF)(CN)3Cu]2·2DMF (2·2DMF) and [Tp*WS3Cu3(µ3‐DMF)(CN)3Cu(α‐tolunitrile)]2·3MeCN (3·3MeCN), respectively. Structural analysis revealed that 2 adopts a 2D network with a 4.82 topology while 3 has a 1D ladder‐type chain. The third‐order nonlinear optical responses of 2 and 3 in DMF were 10 times enhanced compared to those of the precursor cluster 1.
Asymmetric Pudovik Reaction of Chiral Fluoroalkyl α,β‐Unsaturated Ketimines and Diphenyl Phosphite
Authors: Li Peng , Jiang Min , Liu Jin‐Tao
Published: September 2014

The asymmetric Pudovik reaction of chiral fluoroalkyl α,β‐unsaturated ketimines derivated from (R)‐tert‐butanesulfinamide and diphenyl phosphite was achieved in the presence of Rb2CO3 at room temperature. A series of fluoroalkylated α‐amino phosphonates were prepared in good yields with high diastereoselectivities.
A Novel Self‐Penetrated Framework with New Topology Based on Rigid Ligands
Authors: Lyu Guangxun , Chen Qihui , Jiang Feilong , Zhou Kang , Su Kongzhao , Chen Lian , Yuan Daqiang , Hong Maochun
Published: September 2014

A novel coordination polymer, formulated as Zn6(TIB)4(BPTC)3(DMA)4(H2O)10 [TIB=1,3,5‐tris(1‐imidazolyl)‐benzene, H4BPTC=3,3′,5,5′‐biphenyltetracarboxylate], has been synthesized and structurally characterized. Further investigations reveal that it presents a new topology (topological symbol {62.84}{63}4{65.8}6{66}2) based on self‐penetration, and shows interesting fluorescent properties.
A Concise Synthesis of 2‐(2‐Hydroxyphenyl)acetonitriles via the o‐Quinone Methides Generated from 2‐(1‐Tosylalkyl)phenols
Authors: Wu Bo , Gao Xiang , Chen Mu‐Wang , Zhou Yong‐Gui
Published: September 2014

A concise synthesis of 2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)acetonitriles has been developed through reaction of trimethylsilyl cyanide and the o‐quinone methides in situ generated from 2‐(1‐tosylalkyl)phenols under basic conditions. In addition, 2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)acetonitriles could be conveniently transformed to benzofuranones.
Noncardiac Surgery in Patients With Aortic Stenosis: A Contemporary Study on Outcomes in a Matched Sample From the Danish Health Care System
Authors: Andersson Charlotte , Jørgensen Mads Emil , Martinsson Andreas , Hansen Peter Wæde , Gustav Smith J. , Jensen Per Føge , Gislason Gunnar H. , Køber Lars , Torp‐Pedersen Christian
Published: September 2014

Background

Past research has identified aortic stenosis (AS) as a major risk factor for adverse outcomes in noncardiac surgery; however, more contemporary studies have questioned the grave prognosis. To further our understanding of this, the risks of a 30‐day major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) and all‐cause mortality were investigated in a contemporary Danish cohort.

Hypothesis

AS is not an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes in noncardiac surgery.

Methods

All patients with and without diagnosed AS who underwent noncardiac surgery in 2005 to 2011 were identified through nationwide administrative registers. AS patients (n = 2823; mean age, 75.5 years, 53% female) were matched with patients without AS (n = 2823) on propensity score for AS and surgery type.

Results

In elective surgery, MACE (ie, nonfatal myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or cardiovascular death) occurred in 66/1772 (3.7%) of patients with AS and 52/1772 (2.9%) of controls (P = 0.19), whereas mortality occurred in 67/1772 (3.8%) AS patients and 51/1772 (2.9%) controls (P = 0.13). In emergency surgery, 163/1051 (15.5%) AS patients and 120/1051 (11.4%) controls had a MACE (P = 0.006), whereas 225/1051 (21.4%) vs 179/1051 (17.0%) AS patients and controls died, respectively (P = 0.01). Event rates were higher for those with symptoms (defined as use of nitrates, congestive heart failure, or use of loop diuretics), compared with those without symptoms (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

AS is associated with high perioperative rates of MACE and mortality, but perhaps prognosis is, in practice, not much worse for patients with AS than for matched controls. Symptomatic patients and patients undergoing emergency surgery are at considerable risks of a MACE and mortality.
Cancers associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations other than breast and ovarian
Authors: Mersch Jacqueline , Jackson Michelle A. , Park Minjeong , Nebgen Denise , Peterson Susan K. , Singletary Claire , Arun Banu K. , Litton Jennifer K.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have reported additional cancers associated with BRCA mutations; however, the type, magnitude of risk, and sex differences remain to be clarified. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of cancers other than breast and ovarian cancer in known mutation carriers.

METHODS

An institutional review board–approved study identified 1072 patients who had genetic counseling at the authors' institution and tested positive for a deleterious BRCA mutation. The expected number of cancer cases was calculated from the number of individuals in the study sample multiplied by the cancer incidence rates for the general population. The expected and observed numbers of cases were calculated in 5‐year intervals to accommodate different age‐related incidence rates. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for each cancer type were calculated.

RESULTS

Among the 1072 mutation carriers, 1177 cancers of 30 different cancer types were identified. Individuals with a BRCA1 mutation did not have a significant increase in cancers other than breast and ovarian cancer; however, a trend in melanoma was observed. Individuals with a BRCA2 mutation had significantly higher numbers of observed cases versus expected cases for pancreatic cancer in both men and women (SIR, 21.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 13.1‐34.0; P < .001) and for prostate cancer in men (SIR, 4.9; 95% CI, 2.0‐10.1; P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study uphold the current recommendations for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer screening of cancers other than breast and ovarian cancer by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Larger cohorts and collaborations are needed to further verify these findings. Cancer 2015;121:269–75. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Real‐time Simulations of Photoinduced Coherent Charge Transfer and Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfer
Authors: Eisenmayer Thomas J. , Buda Francesco
Published: September 2014

Photoinduced electron transfer (ET) and proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET) are fundamental processes in natural phenomena, most noticeably in photosynthesis. Time‐resolved spectroscopic evidence of coherent oscillatory behavior associated with these processes has been reported both in complex biological environments, as well as in biomimetic models for artificial photosynthesis. Here, we consider a few biomimetic models to investigate these processes in real‐time simulations based on ab initio molecular dynamics and Ehrenfest dynamics. This allows for a detailed analysis on how photon‐to‐charge conversion is promoted by a coupling of the electronic excitation with specific vibrational modes and with proton displacements. The ET process shows a characteristic coherence that is linked to the nuclear motion at the interface between donor and acceptor. We also show real‐time evidence of PCET in a benzimidazole–phenol redox relay.
In Situ Synthesised Silver Nanoparticle‐Infused L‐Lysine‐Based Injectable Hydrogel: Development of a Biocompatible, Antibacterial, Soft Nanocomposite
Authors: Mandal Subhra Kanti , Brahmachari Sayanti , Das Prasanta Kumar
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of L‐lysine‐based amphiphilic hydrogelator consisting of a naphthalene moiety at the N termini and an ethyleneoxy unit with free primary amine at the C terminus is reported. The amphiphile showed good gelation ability with minimum gelation concentration 0.6 % w/v in binary mixtures of dimethyl sulfoxide/phosphate buffer (1:4 v/v, pH 7.4). The hydrogel was characterised by spectroscopic and microscopic studies to delineate the role of non‐covalent interactions in self‐assembly gelation. Subsequently, Ag nanoparticles were synthesised within the hydrogel by in situ photo‐reduction of AgNO3 under sunlight, in which the gelators act as reducing/stabilising agents. The nanocomposites were characterised by transmission electron microscopy, UV/Vis and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Rheology of the soft nanocomposite showed significant mechanical strength and thixotropic self‐recovery properties, which made the composite suitable for use as a syringe‐injectable hydrogel. These soft nanocomposites exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. They showed low haemolytic activity and high biocompatibility to mammalian (Chinese hamster ovarian) cells. In addition, agar–gelatin film infused with these nanocomposites allowed normal growth of mammalian cells on its surface while being lethal towards bacteria.
Two‐Step Directional Surface Modification of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles with Protected Siloxanes
Authors: Bloemen Maarten , Sutens Ben , Brullot Ward , Gils Ann , Geukens Nick , Verbiest Thierry
Published: September 2014

Successful surface modification of iron oxide nanoparticles is crucial for their usage in applications. However, ligand exchange methods introducing siloxanes have several drawbacks. Presented here is a novel approach for the surface modification of iron oxide nanoparticles by making use of siloxanes, synthesized by thiol‐ene click chemistry, with protected functional groups. Afterwards the ligands are deprotected to liberate their functionality. This approach solves the issues related to ligand orientation and colloidal stability during surface modification.
Design and optimization of a 3‐coil resonance‐based wireless power transfer system for biomedical implants
Authors: Yi Ying , Buttner Ulrich , Fan Yiqiang , Foulds Ian G.
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a resonance‐based wireless power transfer system using a single layer of inductor coil windings, in a pancake configuration, in order to obtain a compact system for implantable electronic applications. We theoretically analyzed the system and characterized it by measuring its inductance, self‐resonant frequency, and quality factor Q. In our resonance‐based wireless power transfer prototype, we proposed a 3‐coil system, using two 15‐mm radius implantable coils, with a resonance frequency of 6.76 MHz. This system can effectively transfer power for a distance of up to 50 mm. Moreover, our proposed 3‐coil system can achieve a high Q‐factor and has a comparable power transfer efficiency (PTE) to previously reported works about 3‐coil and 4‐coil systems. The experimental PTE can achieve 82.4% at a separation distance of 20 mm and more than 10% PTE at a distance of 40 mm. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of human insulin and its analogues in human blood using liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility mass spectrometry (LC‐IM‐MS)
Authors: Thomas Andreas , Schänzer Wilhelm , Thevis Mario
Published: September 2014

The qualitative and quantitative determination of insulin from human blood samples is an emerging topic in doping controls as well as in other related disciplines (e.g. forensics). Beside the therapeutic use, insulin represents a prohibited, performance enhancing substance in sports drug testing. In both cases accurate, sensitive, specific, and unambiguous determination of the target peptide is of the utmost importance. The challenges concerning identifying insulins in blood by liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility mass spectrometry (LC‐IM‐MS) are detecting the basal concentrations of approximately 0.2 ng/mL and covering the hyperinsulinaemic clamps at > 3 ng/mL simultaneously using up to 200 μL of plasma or serum. This is achieved by immunoaffinity purification of the insulins with magnetic beads and subsequent separation by micro‐scale liquid chromatography coupled to ion mobility / high resolution mass spectrometry. The method includes human insulin as well as the synthetic or animal analogues insulin aspart, glulisine, glargine, detemir, lispro, bovine, and porcine insulin. The method validation shows reliable results considering specificity, limit of detection (0.2 ng/mL except for detemir: 0.8 ng/mL), limit of quantification (0.5 ng/mL for human insulin), precision (CV < 20%), linearity (r > 0.99), recovery, accuracy (>90%), robustness (plasma/serum), and ion suppression. For quantification of human insulin a labelled internal standard ([[2H10]‐LeuB6,B11,B15,B17] ‒ human Insulin) is introduced. By means of the additional ion mobility separation of the different analogues, the chromatographic run time is shortened to 8 min without losing specificity. As proof‐of‐concept, the procedure was successfully applied to different blood specimens from diabetic patients receiving recombinant synthetic analogues Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New aromatic amine based on cardanol giving new biobased epoxy networks with cardanol
Authors: Darroman Emilie , Bonnot Léa , Auvergne Remi , Boutevin Bernard , Caillol Sylvain
Published: September 2014

Cardanol, derived from cashew nut shell liquid, was functionalized by thiol‐ene coupling with cysteamine to yield a new biobased aromatic amine. This cardanol amine was compared to the commercial cardanol‐based phenalkamines. These amines were characterized by NMR spectrometry and used as epoxy hardeners. The formulations of these amines with epoxidized cardanol in stoichiometric ratio were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TGA), dynamic mechanical (DMA) analyses and exhibit interesting properties for coating applications.

Practical applications: The products of the chemistry described in this contribution, i.e., aromatic polyamine from cardanol and cysteamine hydrochloride, provide biobased building blocks for further epoxy resin syntheses by reaction with epoxy groups. The obtained epoxy resins are partially biobased and may be applied as binders and coatings.

Biobased aromatic polyamine was synthesized by thiol‐ene coupling with cysteamine on cardanol, coming from cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). Cardanol‐derived amine was used as hardener in biobased epoxy networks. Mechanical and thermal properties of obtained materials showed that cardanol‐derived amine material could lead to binders for composite application.
Tandem α‐Alkylation/Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Acetophenones with Primary Alcohols
Authors: Kovalenko Oleksandr O. , Lundberg Helena , Hübner Dennis , Adolfsson Hans
Published: September 2014

A tandem α‐alkylation/asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of acetophenones with primary alcohols, mediated by a single ruthenium catalyst, is described. Under optimized reaction conditions and with use of [Ru(p‐cymene)Cl2]2in combination with an amino acid hydroxyamide ligand, the chiral secondary alcohol products were isolated in moderate yields and in moderate to good enantiomeric excess (up to 89 %ee).
Electrosensing Platform for Varenicline Based on Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Teradal Nagappa L. , Narayan Prashanth S , Seetharamappa Jaldappagari , Satpati Ashis K.
Published: September 2014

Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized and reduced by chemical, hydrothermal and electrochemical methods. The GO and reduced GO was characterized by XRD, FTIR, absorption, Raman, FESEM and AFM methods. Chemically reduced GO (CrGO) was observed to efficiently enhance the electron transfer kinetics of varenicline compared to hydrothermally and electrochemically reduced GO. Hence, CrGO was used for the fabrication of an electrochemical sensor for the determination of varenicline in the concentration range of 0.03–50 µM with a limit of detection of 7.03 nM. The applicability of the proposed sensor was demonstrated by analyzing the biological samples containing varenicline.
Dynamic Structures of DNA Heptamers with Different Central Trinucleotide Sequences Studied by Electrochemical and Spectral Methods
Authors: Pilarova Iveta , Kejnovska Iva , Vorlickova Michaela , Trnkova Libuse
Published: September 2014

A short, single‐stranded DNA fragment d(GCGAAGC) and its analogs d(GCNNNGC) carrying different trinucleotide sequences in the center of the molecule (AAA,CCC, GGG or TTT) were investigated by spectral (CD and UV spectra) and electrochemical methods (voltammetry, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis). Our results show that (i) the central triplet GAA or AAA dramatically stabilizes DNA hairpins, (ii) a stem‐loop configuration is not supported by CCC or TTT sequences, instead, these heptamers adopt bimolecular duplex forms. Finally (iii), in the case of GGG sequence a very stable supramolecular G‐quadruplex is formed.
Electrochemistry of Methyl Viologen and Anthraquinonedisulfonate at Diamond and Diamond Powder Electrodes: The Influence of Surface Chemistry
Authors: Shpilevaya Inga , Foord John S.
Published: September 2014

The electrochemical behaviour of methyl viologen and anthraquinonedisulfonate was studied at electrodes produced from differing forms of diamond, including microcrystalline boron doped diamond, boron doped diamond powder and detonation nanodiamond powder. Two types of electrode pretreatment were employed to produce two dissimilar surface terminations: hydrophobic H‐terminated and hydrophilic O‐terminated. In the case of methyl viologen, it was found that the reduced neutral molecule adsorbed on all three electrodes if they were hydrogen terminated, but not if they were oxygen terminated. For anthraquinonedisulfonate, no adsorption was found on the solid diamond electrode, although again significant adsorption was noted on the powder electrodes, provided they were hydrogen terminated. The reasons underlying these observations are discussed in terms of hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions and the electrode morphology. The work provides information into the likely occurrence of adsorption and concomitant electrode fouling, which may be experienced in electroanalytical applications using solid and powdered forms of diamond.
Multidimensional carbon allotropes as electrochemical detectors in capillary and microchip electrophoresis
Authors: Martín Aída , López Miguel Ángel , González María Cristina , Escarpa Alberto
Published: September 2014

The main multidimensional carbon allotropes could be classified into carbon nanotubes as 1D material, graphene as 2D material, as well as graphite and diamond as 3D carbon materials. Along with this review, a discussion using these four structures as electrochemical detectors in CE and ME will permit us to explore the recent advances in this field.
Field instrumentation for high‐resolution parallel monitoring of bedrock erosion and bedload transport
Authors: Beer Alexander R. , Turowski Jens M. , Fritschi Bruno , Rieke‐Zapp Dirk H.
Published: September 2014

River incision is fundamental in shaping the Earth's surface. In mountainous regions with steep river beds, fluvial bedrock erosion by bedload transport is an important mechanism forming channels. However, there are only a few complete field datasets that can be used to improve process understanding and evaluate erosion models, especially at the process scale. To provide a simultaneous dataset of hydraulics, bedload transport and bedrock erosion at high temporal and spatial resolution, a new measuring device has been installed in the Erlenbach, a gauged stream in the Swiss Pre‐Alps. In this stream, bedload transport rates can be calculated from surveying deposits and from geophone plate sensors and bedload transport samples can be taken directly by an automated moving basket system. To measure bedrock erosion rates simultaneously, two natural stone slabs were mounted flush with the channel bed in a steel frame hosting various measurement devices. Force sensors below the slabs record normal stress and shear stress. At‐a‐point erosion rates on the slab surfaces are continuously measured at sub‐millimetre precision at three locations on each slab. In addition, the slab topography is monitored following erosive flood events. In this article (i) the ‘erosion scale’ device is described, (ii) data resolution and data quality is assessed by means of tests and event data, and (iii) the first transport event is discussed. The erosion scales are confirmed to provide data at high spatio‐temporal resolution for process analysis. The preliminary data show evidence for the tools effect in bedrock erosion. The bedrock slabs can be exchanged to obtain measurements for catchments with different lithologies for comparison. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of a groundwater fungal strain as a tool for toxicity assessment
Authors: Lategan Maria Josie , Hose Grant C.
Published: September 2014

Despite the significant ecological role played by fungi in groundwater, their value as indicators of groundwater pollution is not known, as fungi are notoriously challenging to assess for toxicity because of their varied morphological components, in particular their filamentous structures. Hence they are rarely used in environmental risk assessments and monitoring programs for aquatic systems. A rapid, low cost, 1-step static toxicity test targeting the hyphal components of fungi was developed that subsequently demonstrated the sensitivity of a ubiquitous and dominant groundwater fungal strain to metal contaminants. The strain demonstrates sensitivity to chromium > copper > zinc and relative resistance to arsenic. The introduction of a novel group of groundwater microorganisms—the fungi—for toxicity evaluation will strengthen current risk assessment programs for these ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:2826–2834. © 2014 SETAC
Living on the edge: Populations of two zooplankton species living closer to agricultural fields are more resistant to a common insecticide
Authors: Bendis Randall J. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: September 2014

Ecological communities across the globe are exposed to diverse natural and anthropogenic stressors and disturbances that can lead to community-wide impacts. Contaminants are a group of anthropogenic disturbances that are ubiquitous in the environment and can trigger trophic cascades, increased susceptibility to pathogens, reduced biodiversity, and altered ecosystems. In these ecosystems, substantial attention has been given to evolved resistance in targeted pest species, but little attention has been given to the evolution of resistance in nontarget species in nature. For the present study, the authors used laboratory toxicity tests to determine if 2 common, co-occurring species of freshwater zooplankton (Simocephalus vetulus and Daphnia pulex) showed population-level variation in sensitivity to a common insecticide (chlorpyrifos). For both species, it was found that populations living near agricultural fields—a proxy for pesticide use—were more resistant to chlorpyrifos than populations collected from ponds far from agriculture. This finding is consistent with the evolution of resistance to pesticides. To the authors' knowledge, only 1 previous study (using Daphnia magna) has demonstrated this relationship. Collectively, these results suggest that evolved resistance may be common in zooplankton populations located near agriculture. Moreover, because zooplankton play a key role in aquatic food webs, it is expected that population variation in resistance would dramatically alter aquatic food webs, particularly with exposure to low concentrations of insecticides. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:2835–2841. © 2014 SETAC
Sorption of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) on filter media: Implications for phase partitioning studies
Authors: Chandramouli Bharat , Benskin Jonathan P. , Hamilton M. Coreen , Cosgrove John R.
Published: September 2014

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are ubiquitous in the environment. Investigations into their fate and potential phase-partitioning behavior require separating solid from aqueous phases via filtration. However, sorption of aqueous-phase PFASs on filtration media may lead to underestimation of PFAS concentrations in the aqueous phase. The authors investigated the sorption of perfluoroalkyl carboxylates, perfluoroalkyl sulfonates, perfluoroalkyl phosphonic acids, perfluoroalkyl phosphinic acids (PFPiAs), polyfluoroalkyl phosphate monoesters, polyfluoroalkyl phosphate diesters (diPAPs), fluorotelomer sulfonates, and perfluorooctane sulfonamide on filtration media. The effects of concentration (3 spiking levels), filter media (4 types), matrix (4 matrices), and compound structure on sorption are reported. Glass fiber filtration resulted in the least sorption, whereas polytetrafluoroethylene filters resulted in the most sorption (up to 98%). Analyte concentration had no significant effect. Sorption was generally consistent across matrix types except for samples affected by aqueous film forming foam deployment, which displayed high sorption of PFOS on nylon filters. Sorption usually increased with an increasing number of carbon or fluorine atoms and was most pronounced for PFPiAs and diPAPs (30–75% sorption). Overall, glass fiber filters are more recommended than nylon filters in environmental samples when phase separation is required. Use of filtration media for PFAS must be preceded by matrix-specific testing to account for unpredictable effects. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:30–36. © 2014 SETAC
Forecasting Daily Variations of Stock Index Returns with a Multifractal Model of Realized Volatility
Authors: Lux Thomas , Morales‐Arias Leonardo , Sattarhoff Cristina
Published: September 2014

Multifractal models have recently been introduced as a new type of data‐generating process for asset returns and other financial data. Here we propose an adaptation of this model for realized volatility. We estimate this new model via generalized method of moments and perform forecasting by means of best linear forecasts derived via the Levinson–Durbin algorithm. Its out‐of‐sample performance is compared against other popular time series specifications. Using an intra‐day dataset for five major international stock market indices, we find that the the multifractal model for realized volatility improves upon forecasts of its earlier counterparts based on daily returns and of many other volatility models. While the more traditional RV‐ARFIMA model comes out as the most successful model (in terms of the number of cases in which it has the best forecasts for all combinations of forecast horizons and evaluation criteria), the new model performs often significantly better during the turbulent times of the recent financial crisis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gas Diffusion Layer Materials and their Effect on Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Performance – Ex Situ and In Situ Characterization
Authors: El‐Kharouf A. , Rees N. V. , Steinberger‐Wilckens R.
Published: September 2014

The gas diffusion layer (GDL) has a vital role in the operation of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). Therefore, studying GDL characteristics and their effect on the cell performance is fundamental for the development of more efficient PEFCs.

The work presented covers a selection of commercially available GDL types used in fuel cell development. It highlights some key GDL properties and their influence on PEFC performance. The results show that GDL materials have a direct effect on the ohmic and mass transport losses in the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). They also show that studying the effect of GDL properties on the performance is rather complex, due to the many interrelated properties.

The study shows that GDL thickness has a significant effect on the mass transport properties of MEA, but has minimal effect on the ohmic losses. The bulk density of the substrate has a significant effect on the water transport properties and the maximum current density achieved. It is also found that woven and non‐woven GDLs achieve comparable performance at optimized operating conditions. Moreover, the felt fiber structure has higher ohmic resistance but achieves better performance than that of straight fiber carbon paper due to its enhanced water transport ability.
A Fuel‐Flexible Alkaline Direct Liquid Fuel Cell
Authors: Tran K. , Nguyen T. Q. , Bartrom A. M. , Sadiki A. , Haan J. L.
Published: September 2014

We constructed a fuel‐flexible fuel cell consisting of an alkaline anion exchange membrane, palladium anode, and platinum cathode. When an alcohol fuel was used with potassium hydroxide added to the fuel stream and oxygen was the oxidant, the following maximum power densities were achieved at 60 °C: ethanol (128 mW cm−2), 1‐propanol (101 mW cm−2), 2‐propanol (40 mW cm−2), ethylene glycol (117 mW cm−2), glycerol (78 mW cm−2), and propylene glycol (75 mW cm−2). We also observed a maximum power density of 302 mW cm−2 when potassium formate was used as the fuel under the same conditions. However, when potassium hydroxide was removed from the fuel stream, the maximum power density with ethanol decreased to 9 mW cm−2 (using oxygen as oxidant), while with formate it only decreased to 120 mW cm−2 (using air as the oxidant). Variations in the performance of each fuel are discussed. This fuel‐flexible fuel cell configuration is promising for a number of alcohol fuels. It is especially promising with potassium formate, since it does not require hydroxide added to the fuel stream for efficient operation.
Electronic Conductivity Enhancement of (La,Sr)TiO3 with Nb‐Doping on B‐Site
Authors: Kazakevičius E. , Tsekouras G. , Michalow‐Mauke K. A. , Kazlauskas S. , Graule T.
Published: September 2014

B‐site doped, A‐site deficient strontium titanates with general formula LaxSr1–3x/2+γxNbyTi1–yO3–δ (x = 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4; y = 0, 0.02, 0.03; γ = 0.03) were produced by flame spray synthesis and the electrical conductivity of dense ceramic bars sintered under reducing conditions measured over broad temperature and oxygen concentration ranges. As‐synthesized powders were nano‐scale and slightly reduced, while it was observed that sinterability was promoted by both La substitution and Nb doping. Electrical conductivity measurements on dense bars under reducing conditions revealed that stoichiometric substitution of Ti4+ by Nb5+ raised conductivity by ∼ 40%, with a maximum value of 226 S cm−1 observed at 900 °C. This was attributed to a higher concentration of $ {\rm{Ti}}_{{\rm{Ti}}}^{\prime} $ defects, due to concurrent and enhanced oxygen vacancy ($ {\rm{V}}_{\rm{o}}^{\bullet \bullet} $) formation under reducing conditions. The electronic properties of a slightly porous bar sample of the La0.3Sr0.559Nb0.02Ti0.98O3–δ composition were found to be stable over one redox cycle.
Quality of life in patients after resection of pT3 lateral tongue carcinoma: Microvascular reconstruction versus primary closure
Authors: Canis Martin , Weiss Bernhard G. , Ihler Friedrich , Hummers–Pradier Eva , Matthias Christoph , Wolff Hendrik A.
Published: September 2014

Background

Controversy exists regarding the functional advantages of free flap reconstruction after partial glossectomy as compared to primary closure.

Methods

Forty patients were included in this retrospective analysis after resection of pT3 lateral tongue carcinomas. Twenty patients received a free forearm flap and 20 patients had a primary closure. All patients had adjuvant chemoradiation, were free of disease at least 1 year after therapy, and completed the German versions of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) questionnaires Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Core 30‐questions (QLQ‐C30) and Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Core 30 Head and Neck 35‐questions (QLQ‐H&N35).

Results

Mean time between surgery and quality of life (QOL) assessment was 16.2 ± 3.4 months. The average resection was 41.60% (reconstruction) of the oral tongue, and 39.1% (primary closure). After reconstruction, patients had significantly (p > .05) fewer problems with the swallowing, speech, and social eating subdomains of the EORTC QLQ‐H&N35. All other items showed no significant differences.

Conclusion

Our preliminary results suggest that free flaps might be useful when treating pT3 tongue cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 89–94, 2016