bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The case for case reports
Authors: Bhattacharrya Shamik , Miller Julie , Ropper Allan H.
Published: September 2014

Editor's Note

It may seem cynical for the Editors of Annals of Neurology to publish a NeuroGenesis article on the value of writing case reports, while systematically turning down the vast majority of such contributions that are submitted to us for publication. Nevertheless, we are partial to case reports (and this article) as a way to encourage scholarship among neurology residents. The advice in this article rings true to me as the Editor‐in‐Chief; a case report was my first publication in the literature as a newly minted neurologist, based on a patient I had seen as a resident. I vividly remember going through each of the steps that the authors of this NeuroGenesis article describe. In particular, the red pencil editing of my typed manuscript personally by Bud Rowland, who was then the Editor‐in‐Chief of Neurology, was a priceless component of my education as an author and an editor, as well as a human being. (Bud pointed out, among other things, that I was writing about a 29‐year‐old woman rather than a 29‐year‐old female, and he deleted the patient's race, which was commonly if superfluously used in most clinical descriptions in those days, as irrelevant.) To this day I still encourage residents to “write up” an interesting patient whose story I think has value to other neurologists. The exercise itself has educational value beyond the content of the actual manuscript.

On the other hand, I urge prospective authors of case reports to read my recent NeuroGenesis article advising junior neurologists on where to publish their work. As the text above advises, “High‐impact journals rarely accept case reports based solely on clinical descriptions, but might find a truly new scientific correlation appealing.” Annals, for example, generally does not publish case reports unless they definitively identify a new mechanism of disease or treatment. However, there are many journals that do publish particularly illustrative cases for their heuristic clinical value, and even if, in the end, the case report goes unpublished (I have a few of those as well…), the effort is always educational and an important part of the training of an academic neurologist.— Clifford B. Saper, MD, PhD, Editor‐in‐Chief

Case reports have seemingly fallen upon hard times. Once esteemed by William Osler and C. Miller Fisher, these reports are now considered anachronistic. Nonetheless, case reports remain valuable and formed the largest proportion of publications written last year by residents in our training program (the Partners Neurology Residency). Although they are easy to produce, it is reasonable to ask if these modern exercises are of equal significance to the narratives of migraine by John Graham in the 1950s or descriptions of Parkinson disease by James Parkinson in 1817. Even a brief reading of currently published case reports raises doubts about the value of many of them but also emphasizes their utility. We argue here that the case report format remains of considerable merit, especially to the aspiring academic clinician. Ann Neurol 2014;76:484–486
Transfer hydrogenation of ketones to alkanes using tributylamine under heterogeneous Pd/C catalysis
Authors: Kim Tae Gyun , Cho Chan Sik , Kim Young‐su
Published: September 2014

Ketones undergo transfer hydrogenation using tributylamine in dioxane in the presence of a catalytic amount of Pd/C to give the corresponding alkanes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Residual Metal Impurity Aids Facile In Situ Electrochemical Surface Derivatization of Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Boopathi Sidhureddy , Sudha Rajagopal , Senthil Kumar Shanmugam , Lakshminarasimha Phani Kanala
Published: September 2014

Residual metal impurities were exploited as reactants in the functionalization of the surface of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) with nickel hexacyanoferrate (NiHCF) by simple electrochemical cycling in ferricyanide solutions. This facile in situ electrochemical modification process provides intimate contact between NiHCF and SWCNTs that improves the stability of the redox property and reactivity of NiHCF. The characteristic redox behavior of NiHCF on SWCNT surfaces can be used as an electrochemical probe to access qualitative and quantitative information on unknown electroactive metal impurities in SWCNTs. Significantly, the NiHCF‐modified SWCNTs exhibit pseudocapacitive behavior, and the calculated specific capacitances are 710 and 36 F g−1 for NiHCF‐SWCNTs and SWCNTs respectively. Furthermore, NiHCF‐SWCNTs were transformed into Ni(OH)2/SWCNTs and used for enzymeless glucose oxidation.
Robust H∞ Control for Non‐Minimum Phase Switched Cascade Systems with Time Delay
Authors: Zhao Shengzhi , Dimirovski Georgi M. , Ma Ruicheng
Published: September 2014

The H∞ control of a class of the uncertain switched nonlinear cascaded systems with time delay is explored in this paper via the multiple Lyapunov functions. The considered systems are assumed to comprise an inherently nonlinear and a linearizable nonlinear dynamic system that may be non‐minimum phase. A group of partial differential inequalities containing adjustable functions are used in the control design task. The state feedback controllers and a suitable switching law are designed simultaneously so as to achieve the desired disturbance attenuation while preserving asymptotic stability for all admissible uncertainties. The partial differential inequalities are of lower dimension than general Hamilton–Jacobi inequalities, and therefore the solving process is feasible. This particular technique is applicable even if no subsystem is asymptotically stable. The non‐minimum phase property is compensated for by means of an appropriate switching mechanism. A robust H∞ control for non‐switched cascade system with time delay is obtained in addition. An illustrative example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed design method.
Review of hemicellulose hydrolysis in softwoods and bamboo
Authors: Sella Kapu Nuwan , Trajano Heather L.
Published: September 2014

Hydrolysis to remove hemicellulose and/or generate saccharides is an integral unit operation for the production of chemicals, fuels, and materials from lignocellulosic biomass. Softwoods and bamboo are both widely available but comparatively understudied feedstocks. This paper first reviews the unique hemicellulose chemistry of these feedstocks and the fundamental mechanism of polysaccharide hydrolysis. The influence of temperature, time, acid concentration, particle size, and reactor configuration on water‐only hydrolysis, or autohydrolysis, and dilute acid hydrolysis are summarized. The composition, molecular weight, and yields of saccharides and degradation products generated during hydrolysis are presented. Finally, the types, strengths, and weaknesses of current hemicellulose hydrolysis kinetic models are reviewed. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Birth prevalence and survival of exomphalos in england and wales: 2005 to 2011
Authors: Springett Anna , Draper Elizabeth S. , Rankin Judith , Rounding Catherine , Tucker David , Stoianova Sylvia , Wellesley Diana , Morris Joan K.
Published: September 2014

Background

Exomphalos occurs in 2.2 per 10,000 births with 76% of these babies surviving to discharge. The aim of this study was to determine the birth prevalence and survival of babies with this anomaly in England and Wales.

Methods

Six BINOCAR regional congenital anomaly registers in England and Wales (covering 36% of births) between 2005 and 2011 provided cases for this study. Cases included live births, stillbirths (24+ weeks' gestation), late miscarriages (20–23 weeks' gestation), and terminations of pregnancy with fetal anomaly.

Results

The overall birth prevalence was 3.8 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.6–4.0) per 10,000 births; 1.4 (1.2–1.6) for isolated cases, 1.2 (1.1–1.4) for cases with multiple anomalies, and 1.2 (1.1–1.4) for cases with chromosomal anomalies. The live birth prevalence was 0.8 (0.7–0.9), 0.5 (0.4–0.6), and 0.1 (0.0–0.1) per 10,000 live births, respectively. Edwards syndrome, congenital heart defects, and nervous system anomalies were the most common anomalies associated with exomphalos. A prenatal diagnosis was made in 83% of isolated, 95% of multiple, and 99% of chromosomal cases. Fifty‐five percent of isolated and multiple cases were live born, whereas 85% of cases with chromosomal anomalies resulted in a termination of pregnancy with fetal anomaly. The 1‐year survival of live born babies with an isolated exomphalos was 92% compared with 81% in cases with multiple anomalies and 27% in cases with chromosomal anomalies (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

We report a higher birth prevalence than has previously been reported. The proportion of infants surviving with exomphalos remained unchanged over the time period. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:721–725, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zur Verankerung von Querkraftbewehrung in Decken unter Brandbedingungen
Authors: Thiele Catherina , Schilly Tobias , Fingerloos Frank
Published: September 2014

Zur Verankerung von Querkraftzulagen und offenen Bügeln im Brandfall mit 90°‐Winkelhaken gibt es bisher nur wenige, teilweise widersprüchliche Informationen. Während beispielsweise gemäß Heft 525 des DAfStB (2010) 90°‐Winkelhaken bei Querkraftzulagen und Anforderungen an die Feuerwiderstandsdauer ≥ R90 nicht auf einer brandbeanspruchten Plattenseite angeordnet sein sollen, wird im Heft 600 des DAfStB (2012) die Verankerung von Querkraftzulagen allgemein und von Schenkeln offener Hutbügel in der Druckzone mit 90°‐Winkelhaken auch bei einer Feuerwiderstandsdauer ≥ R90 als ausreichend bezeichnet. Um zu dieser Frage weitere Erkenntnisse zu gewinnen, wurden an der TU Kaiserslautern Tastversuche zum Tragverhalten von 90°‐Winkelhaken und 135°‐Haken unter Brandbeanspruchung durchgeführt. Hierbei wurde sowohl das Tragverhalten im gerissenen als auch im ungerissenen Querschnitt untersucht. Kam es während des Brandversuchs innerhalb von 120 Minuten nicht zum Versagen der Haken, wurde die Resttragfähigkeit in einem Auszugversuch ermittelt. Es konnten signifikante Unterschiede im Tragverhalten der untersuchten Hakenformen gezeigt und Empfehlungen für die Praxis abgeleitet werden.

Anchorage of links in slabs under fire conditions

There are only a few contradictory statements concerning anchorage of links with 90°‐standard bends in case of fire. Booklet 525 of the DAfStB (2010) recommends not to use these bends for a fire resistance class ≥ R90 on the fire stressed site of a plate. In booklet 600 of the DAStB (2012) anchorage of links and hat‐shaped shear reinforcement in the compressive zone with 90°‐bends is described also as sufficient. In order to gain further experience tests with 90°‐bends and 135°‐hooks under fire stress were carried out at TU Kaiserslautern. Load behavior of the bends in cracked and noncracked section was investigated. If failure did not occur during the 120 min test period the remaining load capacity was determined in a pull‐out test. Significant differences between the load behaviors of the analyzed bending molds were found and recommendations for practice have been worked out.
Zuviel Stahl im Beton?
Authors: Polónyi Stefan
Published: September 2014

Die Stahlbeton‐Forschung und ‐Normung basiert auf der Stabwerksstatik. Damit werden die besonderen Eigenschaften des Baustoffs Beton nicht adäquat berücksichtigt und genutzt. Durch falsch geführte Hauptbewehrung werden Zugspannungen hervorgerufen, die durch zusätzliche Bewehrung (Bügel) aufgenommen werden müssen. An diversen Tragelementen wird gezeigt, wie durch die an den Zugtrajektorien orientierte Armierungsführung wesentlich kostengünstigere und umweltfreundlichere Bauwerke erstellt werden können.

Too much steel in concrete structures? – Reinforced concrete – 120 years worldwide success on the basis of an incorrect approach

The reinforced concrete research and standardization are based on the structural analysis of truss models. Thus, the special properties of the building material concrete are not taken into account and no adequate approach is found. Improperly performed main reinforcement causes tensile stresses, whereby additional reinforcement (stirrups) has to be included. At various structural elements is shown how much more cost effective and environmentally friendly buildings can be created by means of the reinforcement oriented to the tension trajectories.
A novel approach to reduce radial artery occlusion after transradial catheterization: Postprocedural/prehemostasis intra‐arterial nitroglycerin
Authors: Dharma Surya , Kedev Sasko , Patel Tejas , Kiemeneij Ferdinand , Gilchrist Ian C.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To evaluate whether administration of nitroglycerin through the sheath at the end of a transradial procedure might preserve the patency of the radial artery. Background: Despite the increasing acceptance of transradial approach, radial artery occlusion (RAO) continues to be a vexing problem of transradial access and limits utility of the radial artery as an access site in the future.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, prospective, randomized, placebo‐controlled, operator‐blinded trial and enrolled 1,706 patients who underwent transradial catheterization in three experienced radial centers. Patients were randomized to receive either 500 µg nitroglycerin (n = 853) or placebo (n = 853), given intra‐arterially through the sheath at the end of the radial procedure. The primary outcome was the incidence of RAO as confirmed by absence of antegrade flow at one day after the transradial procedure evaluated by duplex ultrasound of the radial artery.

Results

The use of nitroglycerin, as compared with placebo, reduced the risk of the primary outcome [8.3% vs. 11.7%; odds ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.44–0.87; P = 0.006]. From a multivariable analysis, duration of hemostasis was a predictor of RAO (odds ratio, (odds ratio, 3.11; 95% CI, 1.66 to 5.82; P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to the sheath size (P = 0.311), number of puncture attempts (P = 0.941), duration of hemostasis (P = 0.379) and procedural time (P = 0.095).

Conclusion

The administration of nitroglycerin at the end of a transradial catheterization, reduced the incidence of RAO, examined 1 day after the radial procedure by ultrasound. Postprocedural/prehemostasis pharmacologic regimens may represent a novel target for further investigation to reduce RAO. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Femoral vascular closure device use, bivalirudin anticoagulation, and bleeding after primary angioplasty for STEMI: Results from the HORIZONS‐AMI trial
Authors: Sanborn Timothy A. , Tomey Matthew I. , Mehran Roxana , Généreux Philippe , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Brener Sorin J. , Kirtane Ajay J. , McAndrew Thomas C. , Kornowski Ran , Dudek Dariusz , Nikolsky Eugenia , Stone Gregg W.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To assess the relationship of femoral vascular closure device (VCD) use to bleeding and ischemic events in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) via different anticoagulation strategies.

Background

It is unknown whether femoral VCD reduce major bleeding after primary PCI for STEMI using bivalirudin anticoagulation.

Methods

We compared VCD‐treated patients with propensity‐matched controls in the HORIZONS‐AMI trial with respect to net adverse clinical events (NACE), defined as the composite of major bleeding unrelated to coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) and major adverse cardiac events (comprised of death, reinfarction, ischemia‐driven target vessel revascularization, and stroke), at 30 days and 1 year.

Results

Among 3,602 patients enrolled in HORIZONS‐AMI, 2,948 underwent primary PCI via femoral arterial access and 896 (30%) received VCDs, of whom 642 were included in our model along with 642 propensity‐matched controls. At 30 days, VCD‐treated patients had significantly less NACE (6.7% vs. 10.8%, HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.42–0.89, P = 0.009), driven by a lower rate of non‐CABG related major bleeding (5.0% vs. 8.1%, HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.39–0.94, P = 0.02). Bleeding reduction was maintained at one year and consistent in magnitude regardless of randomization to bivalirudin or unfractionated heparin plus a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (P for interaction = 0.84).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing transfemoral primary PCI for STEMI, VCD use was associated with significantly lower non‐CABG major bleeding irrespective of anticoagulation strategy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Behaviour of Amorphous Aluminosilicates towards Ageing by High‐Temperature Steaming
Authors: Caillot Maxime , Chaumonnot Alexandra , Digne Mathieu , Van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: September 2014

The structure of amorphous aluminosilicates obtained by grafting silicon on alumina (Si/Al2O3) mostly remains the same after ageing by steaming. The rearrangement of surface silicon species on the facets of γ‐alumina slightly decreases the number of Brønsted acid sites, which is determined through ethanol adsorption followed by thermogravimetry as well as m‐xylene isomerisation. Al/SiO2 prepared by grafting aluminium on silica undergoes sintering of the silica support and the agglomeration of the surface aluminium species during steaming. This process leads to a sharp decrease in the number of Brønsted acid sites, which are associated with the dispersed aluminium species, and dehydroxylation of the silica surface.
Enzyme Biofuel Cells: Thermodynamics, Kinetics and Challenges in Applicability
Authors: Luz Roberto A. S. , Pereira Andressa R. , de Souza João C. P. , Sales Fernanda C. P. F. , Crespilho Frank N.
Published: September 2014

In the last decade, several studies from different fields have contributed significantly to the development of the enzyme biofuel cell (BFC). Moreover, the design of biocatalyst‐modified electrodes is a model for the development of synthetic and biomimetic electrocatalysts. The revival of the interest in the old BFC idea developed in the early 20th century is related to the development of new electrode materials as well as to the potential application of enzyme BFC miniaturisation in implantable bioelectronics. Furthermore, fundamental studies on half‐cells and electron transfer involving protein film electrodes performed in the last few decades have established new types of electrodes for BFC applications. In terms of applicability, some research groups have sought to obtain unit cells with different properties and characteristics such as membrane‐less BFCs by using flexible and low‐costing materials; in addition, micrometric BFCs, which can be implanted in different body parts, have also been developed to supply electrical power to bioelectronics devices. Thus, in this review, we focus on introducing the main concepts and challenges in enzyme BFC research. Some important topics in kinetics and thermodynamics applied to BFCs are also discussed. Wherever possible, an extensive review of works undertaken in recent years is performed. The topics are organised into three major themes: thermodynamics, kinetics and challenges in applicability.
Proton‐Transfer Reaction Dynamics and Energetics in Calcification and Decalcification
Authors: Suwa Ryota , Hatta Masayuki , Ichikawa Kazuhiko
Published: September 2014

CaCO3‐saturated saline waters at pH values below 8.5 are characterized by two stationary equilibrium states: reversible chemical calcification/decalcification associated with acid dissociation, Ca2++HCO3−⇌CaCO3+H+; and reversible static physical precipitation/dissolution, Ca2++CO32−⇌CaCO3. The former reversible reaction was determined using a strong base and acid titration. The saturation state described by the pH/PCO2‐independent solubility product, [Ca2+][CO32−], may not be observed at pH below 8.5 because [Ca2+][CO32−]/([Ca2+][HCO3−]) ≪1. Since proton transfer dynamics controls all reversible acid dissociation reactions in saline waters, the concentrations of calcium ion and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) were expressed as a function of dual variables, pH and PCO2. The negative impact of ocean acidification on marine calcifying organisms was confirmed by applying the experimental culture data of each PCO2/pH‐dependent coral polyp skeleton weight (Wskel) to the proton transfer idea. The skeleton formation of each coral polyp was performed in microspaces beneath its aboral ectoderm. This resulted in a decalcification of 14 weight %, a normalized CaCO3 saturation state Λ of 1.3 at PCO2 ≈400 ppm and pH ≈8.0, and serious decalcification of 45 % and Λ 2.5 at PCO2 ≈1000 ppm and pH ≈7.8.
Dynamic Effects Dictate the Mechanism and Selectivity of Dehydration–Rearrangement Reactions of Protonated Alcohols [Me2(R)CCH(OH2)Me]+ (R=Me, Et, iPr) in the Gas Phase
Authors: de Souza Miguel A. F. , Ventura Elizete , Monte Silmar A. do , Riveros José M. , Longo Ricardo L.
Published: September 2014

The gas‐phase dehydration–rearrangement (DR) reactions of protonated alcohols [Me2(R)CCH(OH2)Me]+ [R=Me (ME), Et (ET), and iPr (I‐PR)] were studied by using static approaches (intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC), Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus theory) and dynamics (quasiclassical trajectory) simulations at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory. The concerted mechanism involves simultaneous water dissociation and alkyl migration, whereas in the stepwise reaction pathway the dehydration step leads to a secondary carbocation intermediate followed by alkyl migration. Internal rotation (IR) can change the relative position of the migrating alkyl group and the leaving group (water), so distinct products may be obtained: [Me(R)CCH(Me)Me⋅⋅⋅OH2]+ and [Me(Me)CCH(R)Me⋅⋅⋅OH2]+. The static approach predicts that these reactions are concerted, with the selectivity towards these different products determined by the proportion of the conformers of the initial protonated alcohols. These selectivities are explained by the DR processes being much faster than IR. These results are in direct contradiction with the dynamics simulations, which indicate a predominantly stepwise mechanism and selectivities that depend on the alkyl groups and dynamics effects. Indeed, despite the lifetimes of the secondary carbocations being short (<0.5 ps), IR can take place and thus provide a rich selectivity. These different selectivities, particularly for ET and I‐PR, are amenable to experimental observation and provide evidence for the minor role played by potential‐energy surface and the relevance of the dynamics effects (non‐IRC pathways, IR) in determining the reaction mechanisms and product distribution (selectivity).
Bispyrrolylbenzene Anion Receptor: From Supramolecular Switch to Molecular Logic Gate
Authors: Granda Jarosław M. , Staszewska‐Krajewska Olga , Jurczak Janusz
Published: September 2014

We have designed anion receptor 4 based on a conformationally labile bispyrrolylbenzene framework, the conformation of which can be changed by appropriate anionic stimuli. In the absence of fluoride anion, the pyrrole moieties rotate freely at room temperature. However, when the concentration of fluoride anion exceeds 2 equivalents, the rotation of the pyrrole units slows down and the conformation of the receptor changes to anti‐anti. DFT calculations have shown that this change is due to binding of a third fluoride anion through CH interaction. Anion receptor 4 can also serve as a molecular logic gate. Anionic inputs such as fluoride and dihydrogenphosphate allow the realization of INHIBIT and NAND logic gate functions with absorption and fluorescence as readouts, respectively.
Natural Compounds against Neurodegenerative Diseases: Molecular Characterization of the Interaction of Catechins from Green Tea with Aβ1–42, PrP106–126, and Ataxin‐3 Oligomers
Authors: Sironi Erika , Colombo Laura , Lompo Angela , Messa Massimo , Bonanomi Marcella , Regonesi Maria Elena , Salmona Mario , Airoldi Cristina
Published: September 2014

By combining NMR spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and circular dichroism we have identified the structural determinants involved in the interaction of green tea catechins with Aβ1–42, PrP106–126, and ataxin‐3 oligomers. The data allow the elucidation of their mechanism of action, showing that the flavan‐3‐ol unit of catechins is essential for interaction. At the same time, the gallate moiety, when present, seems to increase the affinity for the target proteins. These results provide important information for the rational design of new compounds with anti‐amyloidogenic activity and/or molecular tools for the specific targeting of amyloid aggregates in vivo.
Super Sensitization: Grand Charge (Hole/Electron) Separation in ATC Dye Sensitized CdSe, CdSe/ZnS Type‐I, and CdSe/CdTe Type‐II Core–Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Debnath Tushar , Maity Partha , Ghosh Hirendra N.
Published: September 2014

Ultrafast charge‐transfer dynamics has been demonstrated in CdSe quantum dots (QD), CdSe/ZnS type‐I core–shell, and CdSe/CdTe type‐II core–shell nanocrystals after sensitizing the QD materials by aurin tricarboxylic acid (ATC), in which CdSe QD and ATC form a charge‐transfer complex. Energy level diagrams suggest that the conduction and valence band of CdSe lies below the LUMO and the HOMO level of ATC, respectively, thus signifying that the photoexcited hole in CdSe can be transferred to ATC and that photoexcited ATC can inject electrons into CdSe QD, which has been confirmed by steady state and time‐resolved luminescence studies and also by femtosecond time‐resolved absorption measurements. The effect of shell materials (for both type‐I and type‐II) on charge‐transfer processes has been demonstrated. Electron injection in all the systems were measured to be <150 fs. However, the hole transfer time varied from 900 fs to 6 ps depending on the type of materials. The hole‐transfer process was found to be most efficient in CdSe QD. On the other hand, it has been found to be facilitated in CdSe/CdTe type‐II and retarded in CdSe/ZnS type‐I core–shell materials. Interestingly, electron injection from photoexcited ATC to both CdSe/CdTe type‐II and CdSe/ZnS type‐I core–shell has been found to be more efficient as compared to pure CdSe QD. Our observation suggests the potential of quantum dot core–shell super sensitizers for developing more efficient quantum dot solar cells.
Higher Hydrocarbon Production through Oxidative Coupling of Methane Combined with Hydrogenation of Carbon Oxides
Authors: Albrecht Matthias , Rodemerck Uwe , Kondratenko Evgenii V.
Published: September 2014

In the production of higher hydrocarbons, combining oxidative coupling of methane (OCM) with hydrogenation of the formed carbon oxides in a separate reactor provides an alternative to the currently applied methane conversion to syngas followed by Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis. The effects of CH4:O2 feed ratio in the OCM reactor and partial pressures of H2 or/and H2O in the hydrogenation reactor were analyzed to maximize production of C2+ hydrocarbons and reduce COx formation. The highest C2+ yield was achieved with low CH4:O2 feed ratio for OCM and removal of the formed water before entering the hydrogenation reactor.
Carotenoids as a Shortcut for Chlorophyll Soret‐to‐Q Band Energy Flow
Authors: Götze Jan P. , Kröner Dominik , Banerjee Shiladitya , Karasulu Bora , Thiel Walter
Published: September 2014

It is proposed that xanthophylls, and carotenoids in general, may assist in energy transfer from the chlorophyll Soret band to the Q band. Ground‐state (1Ag) and excited‐state (1Bu) optimizations of violaxanthin (Vx) and zeaxanthin (Zx) are performed in an environment mimicking the light‐harvesting complex II (LHCII), including the closest chlorophyll b molecule (Chl). Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT, CAM‐B3LYP functional) is used in combination with a semi‐empirical description to obtain the excited‐state geometries, supported by additional DFT/multireference configuration interaction calculations, with and without point charges representing LHCII. In the ground state, Vx and Zx show similar properties. At the 1Bu minimum, the energy of the Zx 1Bu state is below the Chl Q band, in contrast to Vx. Both Vx and Zx may act as acceptors of Soret‐state energy; transfer to the Q band seems to be favored for Vx. These findings suggest that carotenoids may generally mediate Soret‐to‐Q energy flow in LHCII.
The Major Influences of Substituent Size and Position of 3,4‐Propylenedioxythiophene on the Formation of Highly Hydrophobic Nanofibers
Authors: Mortier Claudio , Darmanin Thierry , Guittard Frédéric
Published: September 2014

The influence of the substituent size and position of 3,4‐propylenedioxythiophene (ProDOT) on the surface properties of the corresponding electrodeposited polymer films is shown. The study investigates the influence on the formation of hydrophobic nanofibers using two substituents (isopropyl and tert‐butyl). The 3‐position of ProDOT is the best for the formation of nanofibers, because it leads to the longest polymer chains while also leading to the highest intrinsic hydrophobicity, two effects that increase the formation of surface structures.
Metal(II)–Organic Coordination Polymers Modulated by Two Isomeric Semirigid Bis‐Pyridyl–Bis‐Amide Ligands: Structures, Fluorescent Sensing Behavior, and Selective Photocatalysis
Authors: Wang Xiu‐Li , Luan Jian , Lin Hong‐Yan , Lu Qi‐Lin , Le Mao , Liu Guo‐Cheng , Shao Ji‐Yan
Published: September 2014

A series of metal–organic coordination polymers based on two isomeric semirigid bis‐pyridyl–bis‐amide ligands and 5‐methylisophthalic acid (5‐H2MIP), namely, [Cu(3‐bpah)(5‐MIP)]⋅2 H2O (1), [Ni(3‐bpah)(5‐MIP)]⋅H2O (2), [Co(3‐bpah)(5‐MIP)]⋅H2O (3), [Cu(4‐bpah)(5‐MIP)(H2O)] (4), [Ni(4‐bpah)(5‐MIP)(H2O)]⋅H2O (5), [Co(4‐bpah)(5‐MIP)] (6), [Zn(4‐bpah)(5‐MIP)] (7), and [Cd(4‐bpah)(5‐MIP)] (8) (3‐bpah=N,N′‐bis(3‐pyridinecarboxamide)‐1,2‐cyclohexane, 4‐bpah=N,N′‐bis(4‐pyridinecarboxamide)‐1,2‐cyclohexane), have been hydrothermally synthesized and structurally characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. The title coordination polymers display versatile structural features with one‐, two‐, and three‐dimensional frameworks. Complex 1 exhibits a two‐dimensional (4,4) network named as type c, which is constructed from the arched 3‐bpah and 5‐MIP anions with alternating orientations. Complexes 2 and 3 show similar three‐dimensional frameworks, which feature a trinodal (2,3,5)‐connected topology with the Schläfli symbol of (42⋅6⋅84⋅102⋅12)(42⋅6)(8). Complex 4 exhibits an undulated two‐dimensional (4,4) network of type b, in which the twist angles of the ligands are different from those of 1. Complex 5 reveals a one‐dimensional double‐strand chain, whereas complexes 6–8 exhibit similar two‐dimensional double‐layer structures with (42⋅6)(43⋅6⋅84⋅102)(4) topology. The influence of semirigid bis‐pyridyl–bis‐amide ligands and central metals on the structures of the title complexes has been reported. The fluorescent sensing behaviors of complexes 7 and 8, and the electrochemical and photocatalytic properties of complexes 1–6 have also been investigated in detail.
Facile Synthesis of SnO2/Fe2O3 Hollow Spheres and their Application as Anode Materials in Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Jin Rencheng , Guan Yanshuai , Liu Hong , Zhou Junhao , Chen Gang
Published: September 2014

Hierarchical SnO2/Fe2O3 hollow spheres are fabricated through the solvothermal method accompanied by a facile solution procedure in the absence of any surfactant. The composition, crystalline structure, morphology, and electrochemical properties of the synthesized product are investigated systematically. The SnO2/Fe2O3 as an anode material in Li‐ion batteries demonstrates a better reversible capacity and very good rate capability and cyclic performance compared with pure‐phase SnO2 hollow spheres. The greatly enhanced Li‐ion storage capability of the SnO2/Fe2O3 hollow spheres is believed to result from the synergy of the two materials, SnO2 and Fe2O3, which provides breathable aggregates for effective buffering of the drastic volume changes during the charge/discharge process. This work reports a promising method for the design and preparation of nanocomposite electrodes for Li‐ion batteries.
Adolescent social instability stress increases aggression in a food competition task in adult male Long‐Evans rats
Authors: Cumming Mark J. , Thompson Madison A. , McCormick Cheryl M.
Published: September 2014

Adolescent social instability stress (SS; daily 1 hr isolation + new cage partners postnatal days 30–45; thereafter with original cage partner, also in the SS condition) and control (CTL) rats competed for access to a preferred food in five sessions against their cage partner. In the first session, SS pairs displayed more aggression (face whacks, p = .02; rear attacks, p = .03), were less likely to relinquish access to the food voluntarily (p = .03), spent more time at the feeder than CTL pairs (p = .06), but did not differ in latency to access the feeder (p = .41). Pairs were considered in dominant–submissive relationships (DSR) if one rat spent significantly more time at the feeder than the other; 8 of 12 SS and 8 of 12 CTL pairs displayed DSRs (remaining: no‐DSR). Aggression increased from the 1st to 5th session (p < .001), was greater in no‐DSR than DSR pairs (p = .04; consistent with the proposed function of DSRs to be the reduction of aggression in groups), and was higher in SS than CTL pairs (p = .05). Because the increased aggression of SS compared with CTL pairs did not result in a significant increase in their time at the feeder, the increased aggression may be considered maladaptive, and may reflect an increased motivation for food reward. These results add to evidence that SS in adolescence modifies the adult social repertoire of rats and highlight the importance of adolescent social experiences for adult behavior. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 1575–1588, 2014.
Specification of sensory neurons occurs through diverse developmental programs functioning in the brain and spinal cord
Authors: Dyer Carlene , Linker Claudia , Graham Anthony , Knight Robert
Published: September 2014

Background: Vertebrates possess two populations of sensory neurons located within the central nervous system: Rohon‐Beard (RB) and mesencephalic trigeminal nucleus (MTN) neurons. RB neurons are transient spinal cord neurons whilst MTN neurons are the proprioceptive cells that innervate the jaw muscles. It has been suggested that MTN and RB neurons share similarities and may have a common developmental program, but it is unclear how similar or different their development is. Results: We have dissected RB and MTN neuronal specification in zebrafish. We find that RB and MTN neurons express a core set of genes indicative of sensory neurons, but find these are also expressed by adjacent diencephalic neurons. Unlike RB neurons, our evidence argues against a role for the neural crest during MTN development. We additionally find that neurogenin1 function is dispensable for MTN differentiation, unlike RB cells and all other sensory neurons. Finally, we demonstrate that, although Notch signalling is involved in RB development, it is not involved in the generation of MTN cells. Conclusions: Our work reveals fundamental differences between the development of MTN and RB neurons and suggests that these populations are non‐homologous and thus have distinct developmental and, probably, evolutionary origins. Developmental Dynamics 243:1429–1439, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AID induces intraclonal diversity and genomic damage in CD86+ chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Huemer Michael , Rebhandl Stefan , Zaborsky Nadja , Gassner Franz J. , Hainzl Stefan , Weiss Lukas , Hebenstreit Daniel , Greil Richard , Geisberger Roland
Published: September 2014

The activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) mediates somatic hypermutation and class switch recombination of the Ig genes by directly deaminating cytosines to uracils. As AID causes a substantial amount of off‐target mutations, its activity has been associated with lymphomagenesis and clonal evolution of B‐cell malignancies. Although it has been shown that AID is expressed in B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a clear analysis of in vivo AID activity in this B‐cell malignancy remained elusive. In this study performed on primary human CLL samples, we report that, despite the presence of a dominant VDJ heavy chain region, a substantial intraclonal diversity was observed at VDJ as well as at IgM switch regions (Sμ), showing ongoing AID activity in vivo during disease progression. This AID‐mediated heterogeneity was higher in CLL subclones expressing CD86, which we identified as the proliferative CLL fraction. Finally, CD86 expression correlated with shortened time to first treatment and increased γ‐H2AX focus formation. Our data demonstrate that AID is active in CLL in vivo and thus, AID likely contributes to clonal evolution of CLL.
NF‐κB factors control the induction of NFATc1 in B lymphocytes
Authors: Muhammad Khalid , Alrefai Hani , Marienfeld Ralf , Pham Duong Anh Thuy , Murti Krisna , Patra Amiya K. , Avots Andris , Bukur Valesca , Sahin Ugur , Kondo Eisaku , Klein‐Hessling Stefan , Serfling Edgar
Published: September 2014

In peripheral lymphocytes, the transcription factors (TFs) NF‐κB, NFAT, and AP‐1 are the prime targets of signals that emerge from immune receptors. Upon activation, these TFs induce gene networks that orchestrate the growth, expansion, and effector function of peripheral lymphocytes. NFAT and NF‐κB factors share several properties, such as a similar mode of induction and architecture in their DNA‐binding domain, and there is a subgroup of κB‐like DNA promoter motifs that are bound by both types of TFs. However, unlike NFAT and AP‐1 factors that interact and collaborate in binding to DNA, NFAT, and NF‐κB seem neither to interact nor to collaborate. We show here that NF‐κB1/p50 and c‐Rel, the most prominent NF‐κB proteins in BCR‐induced splenic B cells, control the induction of NFATc1/αA, a prominent short NFATc1 isoform. In part, this is mediated through two composite κB/NFAT‐binding sites in the inducible Nfatc1 P1 promoter that directs the induction of NFATc1/αA by BCR signals. In concert with coreceptor signals that induce NF‐κB factors, BCR signaling induces a persistent generation of NFATc1/αA. These data suggest a tight connection between NFATc1 and NF‐κB induction in B lymphocytes contributing to the effector function of peripheral B cells.
Antioxidant activity of various Mauritanian date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruits at two edible ripening stages
Authors: Mohamed Lemine Fouteye Mint , Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Vall O. , Ben Mohamed Maoulainine Lobna , Bouna Zein el Abidine O. , Samb Abdoulaye , O. Boukhary Ali O. Mohamed Salem
Published: September 2014

The increasing interest in plant phenolics and flavonoids outlined the necessity of determining their contents and biological activity in Mauritanian date palm fruits. Methanolic extracts of fruit of six date palm cultivars commonly grown in Mauritania were screened for their antioxidant activity, total phenolics, and flavonoid content at two edible ripening stages. Polyphenols and flavonoids were higher in the Blah stage, corresponding to Khalal in the standard Iraqi Arabic nomenclature, compared to the fully mature Tamr stage regardless the cultivar. The average of total phenolics at Blah and Tamr stages were 728.5 and 558.9 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per 100 g dry matter (DM), whereas the average flavonoid content was 119.6 and 67.3 mg quercetin equivalents (QE) per 100 g DM, respectively. The Blah stage also exhibited the highest total antioxidant activity with a Trolox equivalents antioxidant capacity (TEAC) value of 129.3 μmol/100 g DM founded in Bou seker's Blah date, followed by Tijib cultivar with TEAC value of 114.3 μmol/100 g DM and an average TEAC value of 107.5 μmol/100 g DM. Furthermore, a high positive correlation was found between total phenolics in Tamr (r = 0.92) and Blah (r = 0.87) stages and TEAC of fruit methanolic extracts compared to the flavonoids, suggesting that phenolics were the major contributor to the antioxidant activity.
Therapeutic concentration of lithium stimulates complement C3 production in dendritic cells and microglia via GSK‐3 inhibition
Authors: Yu Zhiqian , Ono Chiaki , Aiba Setsuya , Kikuchi Yoshie , Sora Ichiro , Matsuoka Hiroo , Tomita Hiroaki
Published: September 2014

Evidence indicates that widely prescribed mood stabilizer, lithium (Li), mediates cellular functions of differentiated monocytic cells, including microglial migration, monocyte‐derived dendritic cell (MoDC) differentiation, and amelioration of monocytic malfunctions observed in neuropsychiatric diseases. Here, we surveyed molecules which take major roles in regulating these monocytic cellular functions. MoDCs treated with 1 and 5 mM Li, and microglia separated from Li‐treated mice were subjected to microarray‐based comprehensive gene expression analyses. Findings were validated using multiple experiments, including quantitative PCR, ELISA and immunostaining studies. Differing effects of Li on the two cell types were observed. Inflammation‐ and chemotaxis‐relevant genes were significantly over‐represented among Li‐induced genes in MoDCs, whereas no specific category of genes was over‐represented in microglia. The third component of complement (C3) was the only gene which was significantly induced by a therapeutic concentration of Li in both MoDCs and microglia. C3 production was increased by Li via GSK‐3 inhibition. Li‐induced C3 production was seen only in differentiated monocytic cells, but not in circulating monocytes. Our findings highlight a link between Li treatment and C3 production in differentiated monocytic cells, and reveal a regulatory role of GSK‐3 in C3 production. Induction of microglial C3 production might be a novel neuroprotective mechanism of Li via regulating interactions between microglia and neurons. GLIA 2015;63:257–270
Effects of Alkane Linker Length and Chalcogen Character in [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Inspired Compounds
Authors: Harb Mohammad K. , Daraosheh Ahmad , Görls Helmar , Smith Elliott R. , Meyer G. Joel , Swenson Matthew T. , Sakamoto Takahiro , Glass Richard S. , Lichtenberger Dennis L. , Evans Dennis H. , El‐khateeb Mohammad , Weigand Wolfgang
Published: September 2014

Models of [FeFe]‐hydrogenases containing diselenolato ligands with different bridge linker length have been prepared: Fe2(μ‐Se(CH2)4Se‐μ)(CO)6 (4DS), and Fe2(μ‐Se(CH2)5Se‐μ)(CO)6 (5DS) as well as dithiolato Fe2(μ‐S(CH2)4S‐μ)(CO)6 (4DT) and compared with Fe2(μ‐S(CH2)3S‐μ)(CO)6 (PDT) and Fe2(μ‐Se(CH2)3Se‐μ)(CO)6 (PDS). Compounds 4DT, PDS, 4DS, and 5DS were characterized by spectroscopic techniques including NMR, IR, mass spectrometry, ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), elemental analysis, and X‐ray crystal structure analysis. Combinations of electrochemical measurements, UPS, and density functional theory calculations indicate that oxidations of these five compounds are not significantly affected by chalcogen character but instead are governed by linker length. Cations for all compounds are calculated to adopt a bridged CO “rotated” structure with a vacant site on one of the Fe centers. In 4DT, 4DS, and 5DS, the alkane linker forms an agostic interaction with the vacant site on the rotated Fe. The reduction potentials for these compounds shift positively on average 0.16 V for each carbon added to the alkane linker with shifts being as large as 0.23 V between PDT and 4DT, and as small as 0.09 V between 4DS and 5DS. Catalytic reduction of protons from acetic acid in CH2Cl2 occurs at −1.79 and −1.86 V for PDT and 4DT and −2.02, −2.09, and −2.04 V for PDS, 4DS, and 5DS, indicating that chalcogen character is the primary factor that affects catalytic potential. On average the S‐containing compounds catalyze proton reduction at potentials, which are 0.23 V less negative than the Se‐containing compounds in this study.
Multicenter prospective validation of the Baveno IV and Baveno II/III criteria in cirrhosis patients with variceal bleeding
Authors: Thabut Dominique , Rudler Marika , Dib Nina , Carbonell Nicolas , Mathurin Philippe , Saliba Faouzi , Mallet Alain , Massard Julien , Bernard‐Chabert Brigitte , Oberti Frederic , Cales Paul , Golmard Jean‐Louis , Bureau Christophe ,   for the French Club for the Study of Portal Hypertension (CFEHTP)
Published: September 2014

The criteria for defining failure to control bleeding in cirrhosis patients were introduced at the Baveno II/III meetings and were widely used as endpoints in clinical trials. Because they lacked specificity, the Baveno IV criteria were proposed in 2005 and slightly modified in 2010 (Baveno V). These criteria included a new index for patients undergoing transfusion, called adjusted‐blood‐requirement‐index (ABRI = number of blood units/(final‐initial hematocrit + 0.01)), with a cutoff value of 0.75. In this multicenter prospective study, we sought to 1) validate the Baveno IV/V criteria; 2) compare them to the Baveno II/III criteria; 3) assess ABRI performance using a standardized calculation. The key inclusion criteria were: 1) variceal bleeding; 2) cirrhosis; 3) no need to modify the transfusion policy. The patients were classified according to the Baveno IV, V, and II/III criteria. The gold standard for failure during a 5‐day period was the clinical judgment of three independent experts, blinded to the Baveno assessments. A total of 249 patients were included. The experts' agreement in clinical judgment of the failure was 80%. Failure occurred in 20.5% of patients; the c‐statistics were 0.72 versus 0.64 and 0.65 for Baveno IV versus Baveno II/III and Baveno V criteria (P = 0.001 for both). ABRI did not improve the diagnostic performance of the Baveno IV criteria. The Baveno IV, but not Baveno II/III, criteria independently predicted survival. Conclusion: The Baveno IV criteria demonstrated a higher accuracy than the Baveno II/III and Baveno V criteria for assessing failure to control bleeding and predicted survival independently. Together, our results show that ABRI is not a useful metric, and the Baveno IV criteria should replace the Baveno II/III criteria. (Hepatology 2015;61:1024–1032)
How User Experience Changes over Time: A Case Study of Social Network Services
Authors: Kim Hyun K. , Han Sung H. , Park Jaehyun , Park Wonkyu
Published: September 2014

While interacting with a product or a service, people have diverse experiences, which constitute user experience (UX). In this study, the hierarchical dimensions of UX were considered, including overall UX, its elements (usability, affect, and user value) and their subelements. To determine how UX changes over time, the temporal changes of the influence of each element and subelement were analyzed. Twenty subjects participated in a longitudinal experiment by using a social network service (SNS). The most important element of UX changed from usability to user value after one week of use. These results suggest that adoption of an SNS occurs in two phases: a phase of affected by usability and a phase affected by user value. Identification of these phases and the systematic approach used in the study are expected to contribute to design and evaluation of new SNSs and other products and services.