bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser Irradiation of Metal Oxide Films and Nanostructures: Applications and Advances
Authors: Palneedi Haribabu , Park Jung Hwan , Maurya Deepam , Peddigari Mahesh , Hwang Geon‐Tae , Annapureddy Venkateswarlu , Kim Jong‐Woo , Choi Jong‐Jin , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Priya Shashank , Lee Keon Jae , Ryu Jungho
Published: February 2018

Recent technological advances in developing a diverse range of lasers have opened new avenues in material processing. Laser processing of materials involves their exposure to rapid and localized energy, which creates conditions of electronic and thermodynamic nonequilibrium. The laser‐induced heat can be localized in space and time, enabling excellent control over the manipulation of materials. Metal oxides are of significant interest for applications ranging from microelectronics to medicine. Numerous studies have investigated the synthesis, manipulation, and patterning of metal oxide films and nanostructures. Besides providing a brief overview on the principles governing the laser–material interactions, here, the ongoing efforts in laser irradiation of metal oxide films and nanostructures for a variety of applications are reviewed. Latest advances in laser‐assisted processing of metal oxides are summarized.
Large‐Scale One‐Step Synthesis of Carbon Dots from Yeast Extract Powder and Construction of Carbon Dots/PVA Fluorescent Shape Memory Material
Authors: Wu Shuangshuang , Li Wei , Zhou Wan , Zhan Yan , Hu Chaofan , Zhuang Jianle , Zhang Haoran , Zhang Xuejie , Lei Bingfu , Liu Yingliang
Published: February 2018

Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) have drawn lots of attention for their excellent properties and broad applications. However, rarely hydrothermal methods of preparation have been investigated and reach a high synthetic yield of CDs, which limits their scale‐up production. In this work, a large‐scale one‐step process is shown to prepare CDs from yeast extract powder (called y‐CDs) for the first time and the yield of CDs can reach up to 65.8%. The optical properties and morphology of the y‐CDs are characterized. On account of good water solubility and high yield of y‐CDs, the application of the reprepared y‐CDs/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as fluorescent shape memory material is explored. It turns out that the reprepared y‐CDs/PVA not only exhibits bright blue luminescence under 365 nm UV light excitation, but also possesses shape memory behavior, which is superior to pure PVA. The interaction between y‐CDs and PVA is explained and a water‐responsive shape memory mechanism of the y‐CDs/PVA composite films is introduced.
Reduction in greenhouse water usage through inlet CO2 enrichment
Authors: Stacey Neil , Fox James , Hildebrandt Diane
Published: February 2018

Agriculture is mankind's single largest usage of water, comprising 70% of all water usage. Optimizing water usage in agriculture is therefore crucial to ensuring global water security. A greenhouse is quantitatively modeled as a bioreactor and it is shown that the bulk of the water supplied to a conventionally aspirated greenhouse is lost in the form of humidity. This implies that evaporative losses in agriculture comprise a clear majority of mankind's total water consumption. Inlet CO2 enrichment using existing membrane materials can minimize the air feed rate required to supply adequate CO2 for photosynthesis, thereby mitigating evaporative losses. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 2324–2328, 2018
The first Seriatum study of growth by R. E. Scammon
Authors: Miller Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2018

Richard E. Scammon's article, “The First Seriatim Study of Human Growth,” provided one of the best‐known visuals in the field of human biology. Scammon resurrected longitudinal height data of one child from Buffon's Histoire Naturelle, converted them to metric, and plotted these measurements as a function of age. The result was the first graph of one individual's growth curve from birth to 18 years of age. This image was subsequently reproduced in numerous texts on human growth and biology. Published in 1927, Scammon's article provides a snapshot of the state of growth research at the time and gives a (literal) picture of the future of human biology. The graph of the growth of one child symbolizes the importance of process and variation in biological anthropology.
l‐Methionine anti‐biofilm activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa is enhanced by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator potentiator, ivacaftor
Authors: Cho Do‐Yeon , Lim Dong‐Jin , Mackey Calvin , Weeks Christopher G. , Peña Garcia Jaime A. , Skinner Daniel , Grayson Jessica W. , Hill Harrison S. , Alexander David K. , Zhang Shaoyan , Woodworth Bradford A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Biofilms may contribute to refractory chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), as they lead to antibiotic resistance and failure of effective clinical treatment. l‐Methionine is an amino acid with reported biofilm‐inhibiting properties. Ivacaftor is a cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) potentiator with mild antimicrobial activity via inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether co‐treatment with ivacaftor and l‐methionine can reduce the formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms.

Methods

P aeruginosa (PAO‐1 strain) biofilms were studied in the presence of l‐methionine and/or ivacaftor. For static biofilm assays, PAO‐1 was cultured in a 48‐well plate for 72 hours with stepwise combinations of these agents. Relative biofilm inhibitions were measured according to optical density of crystal violet stain at 590 nm. Live/dead assays (BacTiter‐Glo™ assay, Promega) were imaged with laser scanning confocal microscopy. An agar diffusion test was used to confirm antibacterial effects of the drugs.

Results

l‐Methionine (0.5 μM) significantly reduced PAO‐1 biofilm mass (32.4 ± 18.0%; n = 4; p < 0.001) compared with controls. Low doses of ivacaftor alone (4, 8, and 12 μg/mL) had no effect on biofilm formation. When combined with ivacaftor (4 μg/mL), a synergistic anti‐biofilm effect was noted at 0.05 μM and 0.5 μM of l‐methionine (two‐way analysis of variane, p = 0.0415) compared with corresponding concentrations of l‐methionine alone.

Conclusion

Ivacaftor enhanced the anti‐biofilm activity of l‐methionine against the PAO‐1 strain of P aeruginosa. Further studies evaluating the efficacy of ivacaftor/l‐methionine combinations for P aeruginosa sinusitis are planned.
Ultrathin Palladium Nanomesh for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Ge Jingjie , Wei Pei , Wu Geng , Liu Yudan , Yuan Tongwei , Li Zhijun , Qu Yunteng , Wu Yuen , Li Hai , Zhuang Zhongbin , Hong Xun , Li Yadong
Published: February 2018

An ordered mesh of palladium with a thickness of about 3 nm was synthesized by a solution‐based oxidative etching. The ultrathin palladium nanomeshes have an interconnected two‐dimensional network of densely arrayed, ultrathin quasi‐nanoribbons that form ordered open holes. The unique mesoporous structure and high specific surface area make these ultrathin Pd nanomeshes display superior catalytic performance for ethanol electrooxidation (mass activity of 5.40 Am g−1 and specific activity of 7.09 mA cm−2 at 0.8 V vs. RHE). Furthermore, the regular mesh structure can be applied to support other noble metals, such as platinum, which exhibits extremely high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity and durability.
Direct N‐Glycofunctionalization of Amides with Glycosyl Trichloroacetimidate by Thiourea/Halogen Bond Donor Co‐Catalysis
Authors: Kobayashi Yusuke , Nakatsuji Yuya , Li Shanji , Tsuzuki Seiji , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: February 2018

Using a halogen bond (XB) donor and Schreiner's thiourea as cooperative catalysts, various amides, including the asparagine residues of several peptides, were directly coupled with glycosyl trichloroacetimidates to give unique N‐acylorthoamides in good yields. Synthetic applications of N‐acylorthoamides, including rearrangement to the corresponding β‐N‐glycoside, were also demonstrated.
Highly Efficient Synthesis of Hydrophilic Phytosterol Derivatives Catalyzed by Ionic Liquid
Authors: He Wen‐Sen , Wang Hui‐Hui , Jing Zhang‐Mu , Cui Dan‐Dan , Zhu Jia‐Qi , Li Zheng‐Jian , Ma Hai‐Le
Published: February 2018

Phytosterols and their derivatives have been attracting much attention because of their potential beneficial effects on human health. However, the free phytosterols are insoluble in water and poorly soluble in oil and fat, thus limiting their application. So far, many studies have been done to improve the oil solubility of phytosterols, but little research has been reported to improve their water solubility. In this study, hydrophilic phytosterol derivatives (phytosteryl polyethylene glycol succinate, PPGS) was efficiently synthesized, through an intermediate phytosteryl hemisuccinate (PSHS), which was first chemically prepared and subsequently coupled with polyethylene glycol (PEG) using acidic ionic liquids (IL) as catalyst via 2‐batch or 1‐pot stepwise esterification routes. The chemical structure of the products was characterized by thin layer chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and mass spectroscopy, suggesting that hydrophilic phytosterol derivatives were successfully synthesized. As for 2‐batch esterification route, the mass and molar conversion of PSHS to PPGS could reach above 97 and 88% under the optimum conditions: [BSO3HMim][HSO4] as the catalyst, IL load of 6%, molar ratio of PEG 2000 to PSHS at 1:1.25, 110 °C, and 1 hour. Using the 1‐pot stepwise route, the conversion of phytosterols to PSHS could achieve above 92% for 2 hours, and the mass and molar conversion of PSHS to PPGS could achieve above 97 and 90% for 12 extra hours. Both 2‐batch and 1‐pot stepwise routes using the same IL displayed high conversion, suggesting that IL [BSO3HMim][HSO4] could be used as the potential catalyst and 2 routes could be used as highly efficient route for PPGS synthesis.
Influence of additives on the morphology of PVDF membranes based on phase diagram: Thermodynamic and experimental study
Authors: Mohsenpour Sajjad , Khosravanian Abdollah
Published: February 2018

In the present study, the morphology of asymmetric poly(vinylidene fluoride) blend membranes which were prepared by the phase inversion method is rationalized by comparing two non‐dimensional number represent thermodynamic and kinetic properties of the prepared membrane. These two parameters change phase diagram and demixing rate between solvent and nonsolvent. TiO2 nanoparticles and polyvinylpyrrolidone were used as additives. Hansen solubility parameters of the components are calculated by Van Krevelen method. Furthermore, kinetic and thermodynamic properties of the prepared solutions are determined by drawing phase diagrams and controlling mass transfer rate during precipitation of casting solution. Besides, to further analyze different tests encompass; permeability, rejection, porosity, pore size determination, contact angle, and field emission scanning electron microscopy images were carried out. It is shown, additives as pore former induced higher permeability and porosity, however, at higher concentration of additives high viscosity obstacle mass transfer and sponge‐like morphology is obtained. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46225.
The reactive compatibilization effect of copolymer macroactivator for immiscible anionic polyamide 6/polystyrene blends via in situ polymerization
Authors: Wang Wenqi , Ying Jie , Wang Jikui
Published: February 2018

In this article, a novel method has been successfully developed to prepare the anionic polyamide 6/polystyrene (APA6/PS) blends. The macroactivator P(St‐co‐IEM) was synthesized by the free radical polymerization of 2‐isocyanatoethyl methacrylate and styrene (St), then the graft copolymer of PS and APA6 (PS‐g‐APA6) can be obtained by the anionic polymerization of ɛ‐caprolactam activated by the macroactivator P(St‐co‐IEM). The X‐ray diffraction analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy analysis, contact angle measurement, water absorption measurement, molau test, thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical properties test were performed separately to study the effects of P(St‐co‐IEM) on crystallinity, morphology, water resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties. The results indicate the synthesis of macroactivator can promote the formation of the γ‐phase. Moreover, it can improve the interfacial compatibility, water resistance, thermal stability, and toughness. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46302.
Insulin signaling pathway protects neuronal cell lines by Sirt3 mediated IRS2 activation
Authors: Mishra Neha , Lata Sonam , Deshmukh Priyanka , Kamat Kajal , Surolia Avadhesha , Banerjee Tanushree
Published: February 2018

Cellular stress like ER and oxidative stress are the principle causative agents of various proteinopathies. Multifunctional protein PARK7/DJ‐1 provides protection against cellular stress. Recently, insulin/IGF also has emerged as a neuro‐protective molecule. However, it is not known whether DJ‐1 and insulin/IGF complement each other for cellular protection in response to stress. In this study, we show for the first time, that in human and mouse neuronal cell lines, down regulation of DJ‐1 for 48 h leads to compensatory upregulation of insulin/IGF signaling (IIS) pathway genes, namely, insulin receptor, insulin receptor substrate, and Akt under normal physiological conditions as well as in cellular stress conditions. Moreover, upon exogenous supply of insulin there is a marked increase in the IIS components both at gene and protein levels leading to down regulation and inactivation of GSK3β. By immunoprecipitation, it was observed that Sirt3 mediated deacetylation and activation of FoxO3a could not occur under DJ‐1 downregulation. Transient DJ‐1 downregulation also led to Akt mediated increased phosphorylation and nuclear exclusion of FoxO3a. When DJ‐1 was downregulated increased interaction of Sirt3 with IRS2 was observed leading to its activation resulting in IIS upregulation. Thus, transient downregulation of DJ‐1 leads to stimulation of IIS pathway by Sirt3 mediated IRS2 activation. Consequently, antiapoptotic program is triggered in neuronal cells via Akt‐GSK3β‐FoxO3a axis. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(3):224–236, 2018
Photo‐switchable microbial fuel‐cells
Authors: Schlesinger Orr , Dandela Rambabu , Bhagat Ashok , Adepu Raju , Meijler Michael M. , Xia Lin , Alfonta Lital
Published: February 2018

Regulation of Bio‐systems in a clean, simple, and efficient way is important for the design of smart bio‐interfaces and bioelectronic devices. Light as a non‐invasive mean to control the activity of a protein enables spatial and temporal control far superior to other chemical and physical methods. The ability to regulate the activity of a catalytic enzyme in a biofuel‐cell reduces the waste of resources and energy and turns the fuel‐cell into a smart and more efficient device for power generation. Here we present a microbial‐fuel‐cell based on a surface displayed, photo‐switchable alcohol dehydrogenase. The enzyme was modified near the active site using non‐canonical amino acids and a small photo‐reactive molecule, which enables reversible control of enzymatic activity. Depending on the modification site, the enzyme exhibits reversible behavior upon irradiation with UV and visible light, in both biochemical, and electrochemical assays. The change observed in power output of a microbial fuel cell utilizing the modified enzyme was almost five‐fold, between inactive and active states.
Purification, characterization, and N‐glycosylation of recombinant butyrylcholinesterase from transgenic rice cell suspension cultures
Authors: Corbin Jasmine M. , Kailemia Muchena J. , Cadieux C. Linn , Alkanaimsh Salem , Karuppanan Kalimuthu , Rodriguez Raymond L. , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Cerasoli Douglas M. , McDonald Karen A. , Nandi Somen
Published: February 2018

Recombinant butyrylcholinesterase produced in a metabolically regulated transgenic rice cell culture (rrBChE) was purified to produce a highly pure (95%), active form of enzyme. The developed downstream process uses common manufacturing friendly operations including tangential flow filtration, anion‐exchange chromatography, and affinity chromatography to obtain a process recovery of 42% active rrBChE. The purified rrBChE was then characterized to confirm its comparability to the native human form of the molecule (hBChE). The recombinant and native enzyme demonstrated comparable enzymatic behavior and had an identical amino acid sequence. However, rrBChE differs in that it contains plant‐type complex N‐glycans, including an α‐1,3 linked core fucose, and a β‐1,2 xylose, and lacking a terminal sialic acid. Despite this difference, rrBChE is demonstrated to be an effective stoichiometric bioscavenger for five different organophosphorous nerve agents in vitro. Together, the efficient downstream processing scheme and functionality of rrBChE confirm its promise as a cost‐effective alternative to hBChE for prophylactic and therapeutic use.
Use of aspirin and bleeding-related complications after hepatic resection
Authors: Gelli M. , Allard M. A. , Farges O. , Paugam-Burtz C. , Mabrut J. Y. , Regimbeau J. M. , Vibert E. , Boleslawski E. , Adam R. , Aussilhou B. , Badaoui R. , Bonnet A. , Castaing D. , Cherqui D. , Cosse C. , Darnis B. , Dokmak S. , Dondero F. , Fulbert M. , Gazon M. , Klapisz L. , Lebuffe G. , M'ba L. , Millet G. , Mohkam K. , Nguyen M. , Pham V. H. , Pruvot F.-R. , Antonios R. , Sa Cunha A. , Soubrane O. , Truant S.
Published: February 2018

Background

The operative risk of hepatectomy under antiplatelet therapy is unknown. This study sought to assess the outcomes of elective hepatectomy performed with or without aspirin continuation in a well balanced matched cohort.

Methods

Data were retrieved from a multicentre prospective observational study. Aspirin and control groups were compared by non-standardized methods and by propensity score (PS) matching analysis. The main outcome was severe (Dindo–Clavien grade IIIa or more) haemorrhage. Other outcomes analysed were intraoperative transfusion, overall haemorrhage, major morbidity, comprehensive complication index (CCI) score, thromboembolic complications, ischaemic complications and mortality.

Results

Before matching, there were 118 patients in the aspirin group and 1685 in the control group. ASA fitness grade, cardiovascular disease, previous history of angina pectoris, angioplasty, diabetes, use of vitamin K antagonists, cirrhosis and type of hepatectomy were significantly different between the groups. After PS matching, 108 patients were included in each group. There were no statistically significant differences between the aspirin and control groups in severe haemorrhage (6·5 versus 5·6 per cent respectively; odds ratio (OR) 1·18, 95 per cent c.i. 0·38 to 3·62), intraoperative transfusion (23·4 versus 23·7 per cent; OR 0·98, 0·51 to 1·87), overall haemorrhage (10·2 versus 12·0 per cent; OR 0·83, 0·35 to 1·94), CCI score (24 versus 28; P = 0·520), major complications (23·1 versus 13·9 per cent; OR 1·82, 0·92 to 3·79) and 90-day mortality (5·6 versus 4·6 per cent; OR 1·21, 0·36 to 4·09).

Conclusion

This observational study suggested that aspirin continuation is not associated with a higher rate of bleeding-related complications after elective hepatic surgery.
Intrathoracic versus cervical anastomosis and predictors of anastomotic leakage after oesophagectomy for cancer
Authors: Gooszen J A H , Goense L , Gisbertz S S , Ruurda J P , van Hillegersberg R , van Berge Henegouwen M I
Published: February 2018

Background

Studies comparing the anastomotic leak rate in patients with an intrathoracic versus a cervical anastomosis after oesophagectomy are equivocal. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcome after oesophagectomy in patients with an intrathoracic or cervical anastomosis, and to identify predictors of anastomotic leakage in a nationwide audit.

Methods

Between January 2011 and December 2015, all consecutive patients who underwent oesophagectomy for cancer were identified from the Dutch Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Audit. For the comparison between an intrathoracic and cervical anastomosis, propensity score matching was used to adjust for potential confounders. Multivariable logistic regression modelling with backward stepwise selection was used to determine independent predictors of anastomotic leakage.

Results

Some 3348 patients were included. After propensity score matching, 654 patients were included in both the cervical and intrathoracic anastomosis groups. An intrathoracic anastomosis was associated with a lower leak rate than a cervical anastomosis (17·0 versus 21·9 per cent; P = 0·025). The percentage of patients with recurrent nerve paresis was also lower (0·6 versus 7·0 per cent; P < 0·001) and an intrathoracic anastomosis was associated with a shorter median hospital stay (12 versus 14 days; P = 0·001). Multivariable analysis revealed that ASA fitness grade III or higher, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes mellitus and proximal oesophageal tumours were independent predictors of anastomotic leakage.

Conclusion

An intrathoracic oesophagogastric anastomosis was associated with a lower anastomotic leak rate, lower rate of recurrent nerve paresis and a shorter hospital stay. Risk factors for anastomotic leak were co-morbidities and proximal tumours.
Surgical treatment of multiple ipsilateral breast cancers
Authors: Winters Z E , Benson J R
Published: February 2018

Abundant research
Meta-analysis of delayed gastric emptying after pylorus-preserving versus pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Klaiber U. , Probst P. , Strobel O. , Michalski C. W. , Dörr-Harim C. , Diener M. K. , Büchler M. W. , Hackert T.
Published: February 2018

Background

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication after pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy. Recent studies have suggested that resection of the pylorus is associated with decreased rates of DGE. However, superiority of pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy was not shown in a recent RCT. This meta-analysis summarized evidence of the effectiveness and safety of pylorus-preserving compared with pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

RCTs and non-randomized studies comparing outcomes of pylorus-preserving and pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy were searched systematically in MEDLINE, Web of Science and CENTRAL. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed and the results presented as weighted odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences with their corresponding 95 per cent confidence intervals. Subgroup analyses were performed to account for interstudy heterogeneity between RCTs and non-randomized studies.

Results

Three RCTs and eight non-randomized studies with a total of 992 patients were included. Quantitative synthesis across all studies showed superiority for pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy regarding DGE (OR 2·71, 95 per cent c.i. 1·48 to 4·96; P = 0·001) and length of hospital stay (mean difference 3·26 (95 per cent c.i. −1·04 to 5·48) days; P = 0·004). Subgroup analyses including only RCTs showed no significant statistical differences between the two procedures regarding DGE, and for all other effectiveness and safety measures.

Conclusion

Pylorus-resecting pancreatoduodenectomy is not superior to pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy for reducing DGE or other relevant complications.
Quality as a Driver of Sustainable Agricultural Value Chains: The Case of the Relationship Coffee Model
Authors: Hernandez‐Aguilera J Nicolas , Gómez Miguel I , Rodewald Amanda D , Rueda Ximena , Anunu Colleen , Bennett Ruth , van Es Harold M
Published: February 2018

Specialty coffee markets that recognize coffee‐quality price premiums can improve business conditions for smallholders and promote agro‐ecological practices. We studied the Relationship Coffee Model (RCM), a business model that supports long‐term partnerships between coffee buyers and smallholders based on product quality. We examined how biophysical conditions and production practices affect smallholders’ ability to participate in this model. Furthermore, we considered common unobservable variables driving growers’ participation such as farm soil quality and connection to social networks. In turn, we evaluated key environmental, socio‐economic and technological outcomes, including tree and bird population diversity. Our estimations indicated that RCM participants employed more sustainable resource management practices, had better access to credit and were more informed and optimistic about the coffee business. However, we did not find significant farm‐gate price differences. Increased adoption of organic farming and shade‐grown systems to elevate coffee quality can stimulate sustainable business strategies. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Smallholders at a Crossroad: Intensify or Fall behind? Exploring Alternative Livelihood Strategies in a Globalized World
Authors: Rueda Ximena , Paz Andrea , Gibbs‐Plessl Theodora , Leon Ronald , Moyano Byron , Lambin Eric F
Published: February 2018

The chocolate market is experiencing a wave of market differentiation thanks to the emergence of the bean‐to‐bar movement. Cacao is seeing both a rise in demand for mass markets and a process of market bifurcation into more specialized, high‐quality products for wealthy urban consumers. For the specialized market, the quality and origin of the beans are important attributes. Direct trading between chocolate makers and famers seeks to promote the conservation of rare cultivars and traditional agroforestry systems, while lifting farmers out of poverty. Here we assess whether these alternative configurations of the global value chain truly offer smallholders new opportunities, beyond the traditional intensification or marginalization pathways that are generally offered to them. We conducted detailed socio‐economic and biophysical surveys with a sample of farms in three of the largest cacao producing provinces of Ecuador. Our results show that, even though smallholders lack the assets needed to join mainstream commodity markets, they have been able to capitalize on the qualities of their traditional varieties to access niche markets. Through strong cooperatives, the knowledge held by buyers about what constitutes a high‐quality bean has been transferred to farmers. A unique natural capital may provide smallholders with rewarding pathways to develop their agriculture, exploiting new market opportunities offered by globalization. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Neoliberalism and the Emergence of Private Sustainability Initiatives: The Case of the Brazilian Cattle Value Chain
Authors: Guéneau Stéphane
Published: February 2018

Recent studies have examined the political significance of the emergence of governmental initiatives to develop sustainability standards for agricultural commodities in the transition economies. Yet, few studies have examined how neoliberal ideas influence the governance of value chains in the agri‐food sector of these countries. This paper's goal is to explore the changing role of the state in sustainable cattle value chain governance in Brazil, through a methodology of participant observation of the Brazilian Roundtable on Sustainable Livestock (GTPS). The results describe the technologies used to govern the cattle value chain, which involves a private action controlled at a distance by the state that is aimed at making products acceptable on world markets. This neoliberal governmentality does not address some crucial sustainability issues of the cattle value chain. The findings call for an extension of evaluation methods so that more attention can be devoted to alternative cattle production systems. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Clients' experience of non‐response to psychological therapy: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Radcliffe Kay , Masterson Ciara , Martin Carol
Published: February 2018

Objective

The evidence is that therapy only works for some. This study aimed to explore clients' subjective experience of non‐improvement; specifically how do participants who feel they have not benefitted from psychological therapy describe the experience and make sense of their therapy?

Method

Eight people from a National Health Service Psychological Therapies Department in the UK who felt their therapy had not resulted in improvement took part in semi‐structured interviews, later analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Participants described a process, beginning with their difficulties, negative feelings about themselves, and initial hopes and anxieties for therapy. Once in therapy, participants described overwhelming fears of losing control and being judged. They described attempts to manage this, using self‐censoring and compliance. After therapy, while most could identify some gain, they felt disappointed and that they were having to ‘make do’. The sense of not having succeeded or being sufficiently deserving of further input, in turn, reinforced participants' initial negative self‐beliefs.

Conclusion

Although participants identified themselves as not having improved through therapy, the accounts suggested more complexity. All participants reported detrimental effects and accounts contained qualified, thoughtful descriptions of these experiences: participants acknowledged some gains, even though they felt that therapy had not met their expectations.
Design, Synthesis, and Anti‐HIV‐1 Evaluation of a Novel Series of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydropyrimidine‐5‐Carboxylic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Sepehri Saghi , Soleymani Sepehr , Zabihollahi Rezvan , Aghasadeghi Mohammad R. , Sadat Mehdi , Saghaie Lotfollah , Memarian Hamid R. , Fassihi Afshin
Published: February 2018

A series of tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives (2a – 2l) were designed, synthesized, and screened for anti‐HIV‐1 properties based on the structures of HIV‐1 gp41 binding site inhibitors, NB‐2 and NB‐64. A computational study was performed to predict the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and drug‐likeness features of the studied molecules. Docking studies revealed that the carboxylic acid group in the molecules forms salt bridges with either Lys574 or Arg579. Physiochemical properties (e.g., molecular weight, number of hydrogen bond donors, number of hydrogen bond acceptors, and number of rotatable bonds) of the synthesized compounds confirmed and exhibited that these compounds were within the range set by Lipinski's rule of five. Compounds 2e and 2k with 4‐chlorophenyl substituent and 4‐methylphenyl group at C(4) position of the tetrahydropyrimidine ring was the most potent one among the tested compounds. This suggests that these compounds may serve as leads for development of novel small‐molecule HIV‐1 inhibitors.
Imidazolium‐Based Cationic Covalent Triazine Frameworks for Highly Efficient Cycloaddition of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Liu Tao‐Tao , Xu Rui , Yi Jun‐Dong , Liang Jun , Wang Xu‐Sheng , Shi Peng‐Chao , Huang Yuan‐Biao , Cao Rong
Published: February 2018

Covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) have emerged as one class of outstanding porous materials due to their abundant nitrogen sites and highly thermal and chemical stability. However, most of the reported CTFs are neutral porous materials. Here, we report the synthesis of the well‐designed cationic covalent triazine frameworks (CCTFs) via an ionothermal method from the imidazolium monomer 1,3‐bis(4‐cyanophenyl)imidazolium chloride. The imidazolium active sites and pore structure of CCTFs at different synthetic temperature were systematically investigated. The porous CCTFs with positively charged (imidazolium moieties) backbones could effectively adsorb and capture of CO2 through dipole–quadruple interactions. Furthermore, the positively charged imidazolium moieties and the spatially confined nucleophilic chloride anions works in concert on the substrate, leading to synergistically enhanced catalysis for the cycloaddition reaction of epoxide with CO2. These findings provide a new way to design and construct ionic porous materials for sustainable catalysis.
A Scale‐up Strategy for the Fluid Flow in Biogas Plants
Authors: Annas Sven , Jantzen Hans-Arno , Scholz Jürgen , Janoske Uwe
Published: February 2018

The mixing process in biogas plants is fundamental for effectiveness. Unfortunately, difficulties at full scale mean that research must usually be performed at lab‐scale and the results up‐scaled. This study presents a scale‐up strategy for the fluid flow in shear‐thinning non‐Newtonian fluids. Dimensional analysis was applied to connect the influencing parameters, i.e., geometric dimensions, rotational speed, and rheological properties, to key figures. By using the Reynolds and Hedström number, standards for adapting the rotational speed and rheological properties were defined as a function of the scale. A sliding‐mesh model was selected for numerical simulations of a plant with a paddle agitator at two different scales. The scale‐up approach leads to similar velocity fields, which result in equal normalized mixing times.
One‐Step Electrodeposition Method to Prepare Robust Flexible PEDOT‐Based Films for Ultra‐Stable Supercapacitors
Authors: Ye Guo , Zhu Danhua , Zhou Qianjie , Li Danqin , Zuo Yinxiu , Duan Xuemin , Zhou Weiqiang , Xu Jingkun
Published: February 2018

Ultra‐long cycling stability is essential for conducting polymers (CPs) in the practical application of organic electronics. However, CPs usually exhibit poor cycling stability and fragile mechanical properties. Herein, through two alkyl‐bridged monomers, freestanding, flexible conducting P(EDOT‐co‐BEDTH) films based on the copolymerization of EDOT and 1,6‐bis((2,3‐dihydrothieno[3,4‐b][1,4]dioxin‐2‐yl)methoxy)hexane (BEDTH) are easily prepared through a one‐step electrodeposition process in CH2Cl2 containing 0.1 M Bu4NBF4. Both the homopolymers and copolymers are characterized by using SEM, FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetry (TG), and electrochemical methods. The results of DMA and TG indicate that the copolymer films show better mechanical flexibility and thermal stability than the corresponding homopolymers. Electrochemical results of P(EDOT‐co‐BEDTH) films with a capacitance of 23.6 mF cm−2 at 10 mV s−1 present ultra‐stable cycle life with a cycling capacitance retention of 99 % after 30 000 cycles. Furthermore, all‐solid‐state supercapacitors based on flexible P(EDOT‐co‐BEDTH) films exhibit the practical ability to light a red light‐emitting‐diode, demonstrating great promise in flexible energy‐storage devices.
Catalytic Enantioselective Synthesis of Highly Functionalized Pentafluorosulfanylated Pyrrolidines
Authors: Zhao Qun , Vuong Thi Minh Ha , Bai Xing‐Fen , Pannecoucke Xavier , Xu Li‐Wen , Bouillon Jean‐Philippe , Jubault Philippe
Published: February 2018

The first catalytic asymmetric synthesis of highly functionalized pentafluorosulfanylated pyrrolidines is described. The method, based on a 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction of aryl and heteroaryl‐substituted glycine Schiff bases with pentafluorosulfanyl acrylic esters, gave access to a broad range of pyrrolidines bearing aryl, naphtyl, and heteroaryl groups. By using Xing‐Phos as a catalyst, the corresponding products were obtained in good yields, good to high regioselectivity, and excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities (up to 98 % ee). This methodology allowed the preparation of enantioenriched SF5 compounds for the first time using an enantioselective approach.
A Total Synthesis of Salinosporamide A
Authors: Marx Léo B. , Burton Jonathan W.
Published: February 2018

Salinosporamide A is a β‐lactone proteasome inhibitor currently in clinical trials for the treatment of multiple‐myeloma. Herein we report a short synthesis of this small, highly functionalized, biologically important natural product that uses an oxidative radical cyclization as a key step and allows for the preparation of gram quantities of advanced synthetic intermediates.
Ethnic density and cancer: A review of the evidence
Authors: Fang Carolyn Y. , Tseng Marilyn
Published: February 2018

Accumulating data suggest that factors in the social environment may be associated with cancer‐related outcomes. Ethnic density, defined as the proportion of racial/ethnic minority individuals residing in a given geographic area, is 1 of the most frequently studied social environment factors, but studies on ethnic density and cancer have yielded inconsistent findings. Thus, the objective of the current review was to summarize the extant data on ethnic density and cancer‐related outcomes (cancer risk, stage at diagnosis, and mortality) with the aim of identifying pathways by which ethnic density may contribute to outcomes across populations. In general, the findings indicated an association between ethnic density and increased risk for cancers of infectious origin (eg, liver, cervical) but lower risk for breast and colorectal cancers, particularly among Hispanic and Asian Americans. Hispanic ethnic density was associated with greater odds of late‐stage cancer diagnosis, whereas black ethnic density was associated with greater mortality. In addition, this review highlights several methodological and conceptual issues surrounding the measurement of ethnic neighborhoods and their available resources. Clarifying the role of neighborhood ethnic density is critical to developing a greater understanding of the health risks and benefits accompanying these environments and how they may affect racial and ethnic disparities in cancer‐related outcomes. Cancer 2018;124:1877‐903. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Carbon‐Dot‐Mediated Co‐Administration of Chemotherapeutic Agents for Reversing Cisplatin Resistance in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Feng Tao , Chua Huoy Jing , Zhao Yanli
Published: February 2018

Chemotherapeutic DNA‐modifying cisplatin and topoisomerase II (TOP2)‐inhibiting doxorubicin (DOX) were co‐administrated by full‐color emissive carbon dots (CDs−Pt(IV)−DOX) through tumor intracellular environment responsive covalent bonds to successfully reverse the resistance of cisplatin in cancer therapy. Cisplatin was loaded in the form of cisplatin(IV) prodrug and DOX was conjugated via a pH‐sensitive hydrazone bond. The internalization process of CDs−Pt(IV)−DOX by cancer cells could be monitored through multicolor emission from CDs and DOX. Upon uptake, cisplatin(IV) prodrug was activated to cytotoxic cisplatin under intracellular reductive condition, and the hydrazone bond was hydrolyzed to release DOX in intracellular weakly acidic environment. The released cisplatin and DOX exhibited combined anticancer effects via different mechanisms of action. Fluorescence imaging, a cytotoxicity study, and an apoptosis assay using CDs−Pt(IV)−DOX were performed to demonstrate the effective uptake and potent therapeutic efficacy toward A2780 and A2780cis cancer cells with cisplatin resistance. The developed CDs−Pt(IV)−DOX offers a promising fluorescent CD‐based co‐administration system for combating cisplatin resistance in cancer treatment.
A control for the day‐to‐day normalization of the flow cytometry γ‐H2AX assay for clinical routine
Authors: Viktorisson Adam , Mathew Sherin T. , Hammarsten Ola , Johansson Pegah
Published: February 2018

Background

The phosphorylation of histone H2AX (γ‐H2AX) at the DNA double‐strand break (DSB) site is frequently used for quantifying DSBs and may be useful as a biomarker for clinical applications. We have previously reported a flow cytometry‐based quantification of γ‐H2AX for clinical routine. One major challenge, however, is the lack of a control sample for normalization of the day‐to‐day variation of the flow cytometry γ‐H2AX assay.

Methods

Here, we report development of a mix‐control sample containing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 10 control individuals, for normalization of day‐to‐day variation of the flow cytometry‐γ‐H2AX assay.

Results

We showed that control individuals sampled on different days show an average day‐to‐day variation (CV) of 34%, which was reduced to 12% after normalization to the control sample. The normalization allowed detection of radiosensitivity of lymphoblastoid cell lines from ataxia telangiectasia patients, sampled over three days.

Conclusion

The mix‐control sample, consisting of 10 control individuals’ PBMC, can be used as a control sample to normalize for day‐to‐day variation of the γ‐H2AX assay. The use of this sample will facilitate integration of the γ‐H2AX assay into clinical routine. © 2018 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Nucleophilic Neutral Diborane(4) Compounds with sp3–sp3‐Hybridized Boron Atoms
Authors: Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: February 2018

Borylation reactions with diborane(4) compounds are of key importance in modern synthetic chemistry. Generally, sp2–sp2‐hybridized diborane(4) compounds are used for this purpose; these can be regarded as boryl‐substituted boranes and consequently react as electrophiles. In contrast, the chemistry of nucleophilic, electron‐rich sp3–sp3‐hybridized diborane(4) compounds is a very underdeveloped research field. This review highlights some aspects of this chemistry, showing that it offers great new opportunities for diboration and boron‐boron coupling reactions. The discussion focusses primarily on especially nucleophilic doubly guanidinate‐bridged diborane(4) compounds.
Extending the Class of [1,3]‐Dioxolo[4.5‐f]benzodioxole (DBD) Fluorescent Dyes
Authors: Wessig Pablo , John Leonard , Mertens Monique
Published: February 2018

Synthetic routes to a collection of new fluorescent dyes are described, which are based on the [1,3]‐dioxolo[4.5‐f]benzodioxole (DBD) core. By introducing different electron withdrawing groups in 4‐ and 8‐position of the DBD moiety the emission wavelength could be adjusted over a large spectral range from blue to orange light.
Tyrosinases in Organic Chemistry: A Versatile Tool for the α‐Arylation of β‐Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Krug Roxanne , Schröder Dennis , Gebauer Jan , Suljić Sanel , Morimoto Yuma , Fujieda Nobutaka , Itoh Shinobu , Pietruszka Jörg
Published: February 2018

A tyrosinase‐mediated arylation towards a variety of different building blocks is presented. Utilizing phenol or simple substituted phenols, the corresponding quinones are synthesized in a two‐step procedure by an enzyme‐catalyzed oxidation (tyrosinase from Aspergillus oryzae). The activated intermediates undergo a 1,4‐addition with selected β‐dicarbonyl compounds. Starting from phenol, yields of isolated product for the hydroxylation‐oxidation‐arylation sequence range from 43–77 %, whereas substituted acceptors provided 9–55 %, only. Different substitution patterns on phenol revealed that electron donating functionalities are preferentially accepted to electron withdrawing ones, whereas ortho‐substituted phenols are not accepted at all.
Untargeted profiling of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract with comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry using multi‐segmented shift gradients in the second dimension: Expanding the metabolic coverage
Authors: Wong Yong Foo , Cacciola Francesco , Fermas Soraya , Riga Solange , James Darryl , Manzin Valeria , Bonnet Brice , Marriott Philip John , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: February 2018

Metabolic profiling of Glycyrrhiza glabra using comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography (LC × LC) coupled with photodiode array (PDA) and mass spectrometry (MS) detection is described. The separation was conducted under reversed‐phase conditions, using a combination of first dimension (1D) 150 mm microbore cyano column utilising 2.7 μm diameter (dp) particles, and second dimension (2D) 50 mm superficially porous octadecylsilica column with 2.7 μm dp particles. A multi‐segmented shift gradient (MSG) for the 2D separation was developed, and the orthogonality achieved was compared with other modes of gradients, such as full in‐fraction, and shift gradient systems. Results demonstrated a significant expansion of metabolic coverage using MSG in 2D, providing the highest measure of orthogonality compared to other gradient modes. Compound identifications were performed by employing complementary data from PDA and MS detection, with reference to structural group‐type distribution in 2D space. A total of ca. 120 compounds were detected, and among them 37 were tentatively identified, distributed over the chemical families of glycosylated flavanones, triterpene saponins, and others. In comparison with one‐dimensional LC, the total number of compounds detected was ca. 2‐fold greater when LC × LC was employed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the MSG mode in LC × LC, representing a powerful strategy to expand the metabolic coverage for analysis of plant‐derived extracts, containing a multitude of different phytochemical classes.
Changes in structural network are associated with cortical demyelination in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mangeat Gabriel , Badji Atef , Ouellette Russell , Treaba Constantina A. , Herranz Elena , Granberg Tobias , Louapre Céline , Stikov Nikola , Sloane Jacob A. , Bellec Pierre , Mainero Caterina , Cohen‐Adad Julien
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the interplay between structural connectivity and cortical demyelination in early multiple sclerosis. About 27 multiple sclerosis patients and 18 age‐matched controls underwent two MRI scanning sessions. The first was done at 7T and involved acquiring quantitative T1 and T2* high‐resolution maps to estimate cortical myelination. The second was done on a Connectom scanner and consisted of acquiring high angular resolution diffusion‐weighted images to compute white matter structural connectivity metrics: strength, clustering and local efficiency. To further investigate the interplay between structural connectivity and cortical demyelination, patients were divided into four groups according to disease‐duration: 0–1 year, 1–2 years, 2–3 years, and >3 years. ANOVA and Spearman's correlations were used to highlight relations between metrics. ANOVA detected a significant effect between disease duration and both cortical myelin (p = 2 × 10−8) and connectivity metrics (p < 10−4). We observed significant cortical myelin loss in the shorter disease‐duration cohorts (0–1 year, p = .0015), and an increase in connectivity in the longer disease‐duration cohort (2–3 years, strength: p = .01, local efficiency: p = .002, clustering: p = .001). Moreover, significant covariations between myelin estimation and white matter connectivity metrics were observed: Spearman's Rho correlation coefficients of 0.52 (p = .0003), 0.55 (p = .0001), and 0.53 (p = .0001) for strength, local efficiency, and clustering, respectively. An association between cortical myelin loss and changes in white matter connectivity in early multiple sclerosis was detected. These changes in network organization might be the result of compensatory mechanisms in response to the ongoing cortical diffuse damage in the early stages of multiple sclerosis.