bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interests in the use of Rapid Prostate Antigen Screening Test in the North-Cameroon
Authors: Herve Kada Pabame  , Richard Tagne Simo  , Armel Herve Nwabo Kamdje  , Louis Deweerdt  , Guillaume Gayma  , Franklin Danki Sillong
Published: July 2018

Introduction: The number of prostate cancer detected late because of the lack of means of investigation allowing a proximity screening, the poverty which characterize north are the two main elements which led us to lead this study which had for objective to shown the value of using rapid PSA screening tests. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study in the city of Ngaoundere and Garoua for a period of 5 months. Results: A total of 220 PSA level assays were performed over the 5-month period of our study with variations between the two selected centers. Of 30 samples used to study the sensitivity of rapid PSA screening tests, 22 were positive and 8 negative. The concordance rate for the positive values of the rapid test strip test versus the assay was 100%. The concordance of negative values was 87.5%. In addition, in a sample of 41 patients, PSA tests were performed in 30 patients, or 73.17%, and diagnosed prostate cancer in 69.23% of diagnosed cancer cases. Conclusion: Rapid PSA screening tests are good tools for diagnosing prostate cancer when combined with other tools such as digital rectal examination and ultrasound.
Hyperglycosylated hCG and Its Free ß-Subunit Drives Malignancy
Authors: Laurence A. Cole
Published: July 2018

Tumor marker studies were conducted measuring 2,277 malignancies using a cut-off of 3 fmol/ml. As found 110 of 110 trophoblastic malignancies or 100% were positive for ß-core fragment an hCG serum degradation product. Just 949 of 2167 (44%) of non-trophoblastic or other cancers were positive using this 3 fmol/ml cut-off. When the cut-off of the assay was lowered to 0.1 fmol/ml, or lowered by 30-fold 100% of non-trophoblastic or other cancers were detected, or all cancers were detected.
What do cancers secrete. Cancer were tested with three immunoassays, Immulite total hCG, B152 hyperglycosylated hCG and FBT11 free ß-subunit, serum of 34 trophoblastic cancers and 32 non-trophoblastic cancers were tested. A total of 34 of 34 trophoblastic cancer produced primarily hyperglycosylated hCG (B152 hyperglycosylated assay 96%±12% of Immulite), and 32 of 32 non-trophoblastic cancers produced primarily hyperglycosylated hCG free ß-subunit (B152 hyperglycosylated assay 102%±6.2% of Immulite, FBT11 free ß-subunit assay 128%±10% of Immulite).
Seven independent laboratories each showed with a wide mixture of cancers (patient tissue and cancer cell lines) that ß-subunit promoted malignancy (cell growth, cell invasion and blockage of apoptosis) in cancer cells. I then showed that hyperglycosylated hCG and its ß-subunit promoted malignancy in 10 different cancer cell lines.
I then tied my data and the seven independent laboratory data together and concluded that hyperglycosylated hCG and its ß-subunit drove malignancy in all or most cancers.
Explaining Torture: A Case Study
Authors: Quilodran Claudia Reyes- , Cottam Martha
Published: July 2018

During the late 1960s and early 1970s, most Latin American countries experienced military coups and military interventions in government affairs. One of the worst consequences of these military interventions was the torture and murder of thousands of people. This study focuses on the perpetrators of torture and examines group influences on the occurrence of torture and the behavior of torturers. To achieve this goal, we have conducted field research to interview and evaluate individuals who were members of the Chilean police and military during the 1980s. Interviews were conducted with Chilean military and police torturers active during the military regime (1973 – 1990). Group influences are strongly associated with the institutional context. The study identifies common patterns among the perpetrators but also considers the marked differences between them and demonstrates the important role of the group in enabling the perpetration of torture. Few studies have examined torture behavior in an institutional framework, and the identification of these features may allow this type of crime to be prevented.
Approche sociologique et typologique des logiques de croissance de l’entrepreneur
Authors: Grandclaude Didier , Nobre Thierry
Published: July 2018

Cette recherche a pour objectif de développer de nouvelles pistes pour faire évoluer l’approche typologique en entrepreneuriat. Ces typologies sont effectivement remises en cause pour leur aspect simplificateur, voire stylisateur, de la complexité entrepreneuriale. Dans cette perspective, nous adoptons le raisonnement typologique tel qu’il est mobilisé en sociologie et l’appliquons à une thématique classique des typologies d’entrepreneur : les logiques d’action de croissance. À partir d’une étude empirique qualitative conduite en deux étapes, des entretiens individuels menés auprès de 29 entrepreneurs, puis deux entretiens collectifs menés auprès de huit témoins, nous élaborons d’abord une typologie aux catégories différenciées, avant d’interroger ensuite l’existence de liens et de transitions potentielles entre les types identifiés. Une analyse des variables qui influencent la typologie et ses variations complète ce travail. Cette démarche originale, qui vise à prendre du recul sur les types élaborés et insiste plutôt sur les nuances et les variations de la typologie, permet d’obtenir des résultats, qui, tout en demeurant intelligibles, reflètent la dynamique et la complexité du phénomène entrepreneurial observé.
Immunohistochemical markers: Carcinoembryonic antigen, p53, Ki-67, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen as prognostic factors for colorectal cancer
Authors: Maksimović Siniša , Jakovljević Branislava , Gojković Zdenka , Maksimović Zlatko
Published: July 2018

Introduction. There has been a progressive increase in the frequency of colorectal carcinoma for the last twenty years. In order for a doctor to estimate the life expectancy and/or the treatment of these patients, oncology makes use of prognostic and predictive factors. They are divided into: clinicosurgical, pathohistological and immunohistochemical markers. The aim of this study is to determine the significance of immunohistochemical markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), p53, Ki-67 as well as proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for predicting survival in patients with colorectal carcinoma. Methods. From 1st January 2010 to 1st December 2017, 484 patients with colorectal carcinoma who underwent analysis of immunohistochemical markers in carcinoma tissue (CEA, p53, Ki-67 and PCNA) were treated in Public Hospital "St Vračevi" in Bijeljina. Results. Immunohistochemical analysis of primary colorectal adenocarcinoma tissue showed a considerably high positive expression level of CEA in 301 (62%) patients, p53 in 329 (68%), PCNA in 314 and Ki-67 in 275 (56.8%) patients. Patients with a high positive expression of CEA, PCNA, and p53 had a statistically lower survival rate, compared to the patients with low CEA, PCNA and p53 expression score. There was no statistically significant difference in the survival of patients with a considerably high immunohistochemical Ki-67 expression score, compared to the ones with low score. Conclusion. Although immunohistochemical markers are useful predictors of survival in these patients, immunohistochemical analysis is not used for the routine examination of colorectal carcinoma.
Frequency of metabolic syndrome components in patients with ischemic heart disease
Authors: Pećanac Žana , Stanetić Kosana , Šormaz Ljubomir
Published: July 2018

Introduction. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic disorders that increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study is to determine the frequency of certain metabolic syndrome components by applying International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria prior to and after diagnosing ischemic heart disease. Methods. In a retrospective-prospective study, risk factors for metabolic syndrome prior to and after the ischemic heart disease were analyzed. The sample included 107 patients suffering from ischemic heart disease. All patients with ischemic heart disease treated in the Primary Healthcare Centre Laktaši (Bosnia and Herzegovina) from 1st January 2010 to 30th November 2015 were included in the study. The patients were diagnosed with the ischemic heart disease by cardiology examination, ergometric testing and coronagraphy. All patients were subjected to anthropometric and blood pressure measurement and their blood samples were taken after 12 hours of being famished in order to determine the glucose and lipid levels. Results. After cardiovascular event a statictically significant decrease in the number of patients with increased body mass index (46 vs. 38, p < 0.001), increased levels of triglycerides (53 vs. 37, p < 0.001), low levels of HDL cholesterol (31 vs. 30, p = 0.100), increased systolic blood pressure (77 vs. 23, p = 0.004) was registered. Statistically significant increase in the number of patients with central obesity (61 vs. 92, p < 0.001), increased fasting blood glucose (68 vs. 73, p < 0.001), as well as those receiving pharmacotherapy for hypertension (49 vs. 90, p = 0.002) and diabetes (14 vs. 24, p < 0.001) was recorded. Conclusion. After diagnosing ischemic heart disease, the majority of metabolic syndrome parameters were reduced by applying pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures. Family physicians have an important role in an early identification of patients with metabolic syndrome as well as in the prevention of ischemic heart disease.
Research steps in qualitative study implementation
Authors: Račić Maja , Dubravac-Tanasković Milena , Bojanić Janja
Published: July 2018

Public health represents a field full of unresolved issues which are often raised by highly complex and mutually related events. Due to this, the more frequent use of qualitative scientific research is required. Qualitative research is primarily focused on the world view of an individual or a group, enabling them to form attitudes and practise related to certain research questions. As its final goal is to comprehend some aspects of social life, qualitative study analyzes words instead of numbers, which makes the interpretation of results complicated. In several simple steps, this paper will allow us to understand qualitative research methodology by providing basic insight into research question formulation, sample selection and methods of data collection and analysis.
Use of Canonical Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (CanSNPs) to characterizeBacillus anthracisoutbreak strains in Zambia between 1990 and 2014
Authors: Fasanella Antonio , Serrecchia Luigina , Chiaverini Alexandra , Garofolo Giuliano , Muuka Geoffrey M. , Mwambazi Lucas
Published: July 2018

Anthrax caused byBacillus anthracisis an old and neglected zoonosis that continues to raise concerns in Southern Africa. In this study, twenty (20) slides with suspected isolates ofB. anthracisfrom anthrax cases between 1990 and 2014 and two (2) from that of a vaccine strain were analysed using MLVA with 15 VNTRs and CanSNPs test. The results from the CanSNPs indicate that all anthrax outbreaks in Zambia between 1990 and 2014 were caused by the lineage A.Br.005/006 of the clade A. This indicates a common ancestral origin of theB. anthraciscirculating in the country. This data has described several environmental, wildlife, livestock and human cases that occurred in a 24 year period, from the major areas where anthrax is endemic. The molecular characterization of isolates from anthrax outbreaks in Zambia has revealed a genetic structure in agreement with previous studies from neighbouring countries. Further studies are needed to elucidate how to better manage anthrax outbreaks and define the risk maps of Zambia.
Lobelia claviflora (Campanulaceae:Lobelioideae), a new species from northern New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Albrecht David E , Jobson Richard W , Walsh Neville G , Knox Eric B
Published: July 2018

Lobelia claviflora Albr. & R.W.Jobson sp. nov. is described and illustrated, with notes on distribution, habitat, conservation status and features distinguishing it from closely related species of Lobelia and Isotoma.
Addendum to Xylene (all isomers) [BAT Value Documentation, 2016]
Authors: Jäger T. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: July 2018

In 2015 the German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the biological tolerance value at the work place (BAT value) for xylene and its isomers [
1330‐20‐7
], considering xylene in blood and methylhippuric (toluric) acid (all isomers) to characterise the internal exposure. Xylene can easily pass through the skin, so biological monitoring is necessary for a valid individual risk assessment.

Xylene shows a fast elimination in the blood compartment. Thus, the concentration of xylene in blood is halved 30 minutes after the end of exposure. Therefore, sampling should be performed directly at the end of exposure. This is, however, difficult to realize in practice. Therefore, the BAT value for xylene (all isomers) in blood was withdrawn. Methylhippuric (toluric) acid in urine is available as a diagnostically specific parameter. The BAT value for methylhippuric acid is confirmed.
Addendum zu Cobalt und Cobaltverbindungen [BAT Value Documentation in German language, 2018]
Authors: Schmitz‐Spanke S. , Drexler H. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: July 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has derived a biological guidance value at the workplace (“Biologischer Leitwert”, BLW) and a biological reference value (“Biologischer Arbeitsstoff‐Referenzwert”, BAR) and has re‐evaluated the exposure equivalents for carcinogenic substances (EKA) for cobalt and cobalt compounds [CAS No.7440‐48‐4] in 2017. Available publications are described in detail.

The evaluation of the BLW was based on the association between urinary concentration of cobalt to characterize the internal exposure and cardiotoxicity as critical effect. Moderate restrictive lung dysfunctions and slight interferences with thyroid metabolism (hypothyroidism) were observed at urinary cobalt concentrations of 79 µg/l urine and 84 µg/l urine, respectively. At urinary concentrations of 38 µg cobalt/l urine and 36 µg cobalt/l urine no adverse effects of restrictive lung dysfunction and cardiotoxicity were observed. Therefore, a BLW of 35 µg/l urine was derived. The sampling time is for long‐term exposures at the end of the shift after several shifts.

In some biomonitoring studies, the excretion of cobalt in urine of persons occupationally not exposed to cobalt was examined. Due to geogenic differences, a German study was considered for the evaluation, where urine samples of 87 adults were analyzed and a 95th percentile of 1.53 µg cobalt/l urine was recorded. These results are in good accordance with other international studies. Therefore, a BAR of 1.5 µg cobalt/l urine was evaluated.

The relationships between the concentration of cobalt in ambient air and that in urine derived from the more recent studies are in good accordance with the present EKA. The Commission therefore retains the EKA already derived in 1986 and extended in 2006 in the lower range between the concentration of cobalt in the air and in urine.
Essigsäureanhydrid [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: July 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) and the Pregnancy Risk Group of acetic anhydride [
108‐24‐7
]. Furthermore genotoxicity and skin absorption have been evaluated.

Critical effects are irritation of mucous membranes in humans and inflammation reactions as well as hyper‐ and metaplasia in the upper respiration tract with a NOAEC of 1 ml/m
3
in a 90‐day‐inhalation study with rats. Since 2014 the Commission uses an empirical approach to set MAK values for such substances. According to this, the MAK value for acetic anhydride has been lowered to 0.1 ml/m
3
. As local effects are critical, the assignment to Peak Limitation Category I is confirmed. As the LOAEC is fivefold as high as the NOAEC in the 90‐day‐inhalation study with rats, the true NAEC might be higher and the excursion factor of 2 is set. Taking into consideration the low systemic bioavailability and the data for the metabolite acetic acid, damage to the embryo and fetus is unlikely when the MAK value for acetic anhydride is not exceeded. Therefore, acetic anhydride is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C. Absorption of acetic anhydride via the skin is unlikely, due to the rapid hydrolysis to acetic acid in aqueous solution. In addition, the irritation of undiluted acetic anhydride precludes a skin contact over a longer period. The substance is not genotoxic.
1‐Octanol [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: July 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated 1‐octanol [111‐87‐5] to derive a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value), considering all toxicity endpoints. Irritation is the critical effect. Neither appropriate data in humans nor inhalation or oral studies of 1‐octanol with animals are available for derivation of a MAK value. An 8‐week feeding study in Wistar rats with the structurally related 1‐dodecanol resulted in a NOAEL of 100 mg/kg body weight and day for systemic toxicity. Additionally, a NOAEL of 125 mg/kg body weight and day for 2‐ethylhexanol was obtained in a 90 day oral study in rats. Therefore, a NOAEL of approximately 100 mg/kg body weight and day was assumed for 1‐octanol. From this NOAEL, the concentration in workplace air was calculated to be 245 mg 1‐octanol/m3according to the Commission's procedure. However, 1‐octanol can cause irritation. The RD50values of 50 ml/m3and 45 ml/m3for 1‐octanol and 2‐ethylhexanol, respectively, suggest a similar irritating potency. Therefore, the MAK value for 1‐octanol was set at 10 ml/m3by analogy with 2‐ethylhexanol. As local effects are critical, the substance is assigned to Peak Limitation Category I and an excursion factor of 1 has been established by analogy with 2‐ethylhexanol. From a synopsis of all data, 1‐octanol is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C. 1‐Octanol is not mutagenic in bacteria. There are no long‐term studies with 1‐octanol. Skin absorption does not contribute significantly to systemic toxicity and 1‐octanol is not expected to lead to contact sensitization.
Paper with Power: Engraving 2D Materials on 3D Structures for Printed, High‐Performance, Binder‐Free, and All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Tengyuan , Li Xia , Asher Eaton , Deng Sixu , Sun Xueliang , Yang Jun
Published: July 2018

The prevalence of the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearable electronics create an unprecedented demand for new power sources which are low cost, high performance, and flexible in many application settings. In this paper, a strategy for the scalable fabrication of high‐performance, all‐solid‐state supercapacitors (SCs) is demonstrated using conventional paper and an inkjet printer. Emerging printed electronics technology and low‐cost chemical engraving methods are bridged for the first time to construct CuxO nanosheets, in situ, on the 3D metallized fiber structures. Benefitting from both the “2D Materials on 3D Structures” design and the binder‐free nature of the fabricated electrodes, substantial improvements to electrical conductivity, aerial capacitance, and electrochemical performance of the resulting SCs are observed. With the proposed strategy, the fabricated SCs can be seamlessly integrated into any printed circuit, sensors, or artwork; the properties of these SCs can be easily tuned by simple pattern design, fulfilling the increasing demand of highly customized power systems in the IoT and flexible/wearable electronics industries.
Plasmonic Black Metasurface by Transfer Printing
Authors: Meudt Maik , Jakob Timo , Polywka Andreas , Stegers Luca , Kropp Stefan , Runke Simon , Zang Martin , Clemens Markus , Görrn Patrick
Published: July 2018

In various applications simultaneous large optical absorption and large thermal and electrical conductivity are desired. As bulk materials cannot fulfill that need, metamaterials have been developed that often require complicated nanotechnology. The work presents the facile fabrication of black metasurfaces consisting of silver only. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are transfer printed onto a silver film from a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stamp. Numerical simulations confirm that gap plasmon modes between the particles and the film are responsible for increased absorption and also show that a nanoscale variation of the AgNP size increases the spectral width and magnitude of the absorption. The presented transfer printing enables such control of the AgNP size by introducing a relief at the PDMS stamp surface. In a case study a grating relief of a period of 277 nm is used. The resulting highly conductive metasurface shows large absorption of up to 97% for transversal magnetic polarization and over 70% for unpolarized light from the near‐ultraviolet to near‐infrared range for incident angles below 45°.
Ductile Pd‐Catalysed Hydrodearomatization of Phenol‐Containing Bio‐Oils Into Either Ketones or Alcohols using PMHS and H2O as Hydrogen Source
Authors: Di Francesco Davide , Subbotina Elena , Rautiainen Sari , Samec Joseph S. M.
Published: July 2018

A series of phenolic bio‐oil components were selectively hydrodearomatized by palladium on carbon into the corresponding ketones or alcohols in excellent yields using polymethylhydrosiloxane and water as reducing agent. The selectivity of the reaction was governed by the water concentration where selectivity to alcohol was favoured at higher water concentrations. As phenolic bio‐oil examples cardanol and beech wood tar creosote were studied as substrate to the developed reaction conditions. Cardanol was hydrodearomatized into 3‐pentadecylcyclohexanone in excellent yield. From beech wood tar creosote, a mixture of cyclohexanols was produced. No hydrodeoxygenation occurred, suggesting the applicability of the reported method for the production of ketone‐alcohol oil from biomass.

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Location: A surrogate for personalized treatment of sodium channelopathies
Authors: Holland Katherine D. , Bouley Thomas M. , Horn Paul S.
Published: July 2018

Voltage‐gated sodium channels have been implicated in numerous inherited paroxysmal disorders of the nervous system, muscle, and heart. Our goal is to provide a framework that helps neurologists understand the clinical and treatment implications of sodium channel variants they encounter in clinical practice. This will be accomplished through our objectives of (1) recognizing the relationship between location of a missense sodium channel gene variant and its effect on channel function, and (2) categorizing clinical phenotype based on functional effect of a variant. The relationship between location, function, and treatment response is also discussed. These interactions can be illustrated by the sodium channelopathies seen in people with epilepsy but generalize beyond that disorder. Ann Neurol 2018;83:1–9
Intravenous Thrombolysis for Ischemic Stroke Patients on Dual Antiplatelets
Authors: Tsivgoulis Georgios , Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Mavridis Dimitris , Gdovinova Zuzana , Karliński Michał , Macleod Mary Joan , Strbian Daniel , Ahmed Niaz
Published: July 2018

Objective

We assessed the outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients on dual antiplatelet therapy prior to stroke onset.

Methods

We analyzed prospectively collected data from the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke (SITS) International Stroke Thrombolysis Register on consecutive IVT‐treated AIS patients during a 7‐year period (2010–2017). In propensity score matched groups of patients with dual antiplatelet pretreatment and no antiplatelet pretreatment, we compared: (1) symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH), according to SITS Monitoring Study (MOST), European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study (ECASS) II, and National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) definitions; (2) 3‐month mortality; (3) 3‐month favorable functional outcome (FFO; modified Rankin Scale [mRS] scores = 0–1); (4) 3‐month functional independence (FI; mRS scores = 0–2); and (5) distribution of the 3‐month mRS scores. Dual antiplatelet pretreatment was defined as all possible combinations among aspirin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, and any other antiplatelet.

Results

Propensity score matching resulted in 2 groups of 1,043 patients each, balanced for all baseline characteristics. In the propensity score matched analysis, the 2 groups had comparable (p > 0.017 using Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons) SICH rates according to SITS‐MOST (2.9% vs 1.5%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.03 to −0.01), ECASS II (5.2% vs 4.4%, 95% CI = −0.03 to 0.01), and NINDS (7.7% vs 6.6%, 95% CI = −0.03 to 0.01) definitions. No differences in the 3‐month mortality (17.9% vs 16.6%, 95% CI = −0.05 to 0.02), FFO (45.6% vs 46.0%, 95% CI = −0.04 to 0.05), FI (59.2% vs 60.7%, 95% CI = −0.03 to 0.06), or distribution in 3‐month mRS scores (2 [1–4] vs 2 [0–4], 95% CI = −0.29 to 0.09) were documented between the 2 groups.

Interpretation

Given that patients on dual antiplatelet pretreatment have similar SICH, 3‐month mortality rates, and functional outcomes compared to patients with no antiplatelet pretreatment, dual antiplatelet pretreatment history should not be used as a reason to withhold IVT in otherwise eligible AIS patients. Ann Neurol 2018;83:89–97
Thermally Induced Valence Tautomeric Transition in a Two‐Dimensional Fe‐Tetraoxolene Honeycomb Network
Authors: Chen Jian , Sekine Yoshihiro , Komatsumaru Yuki , Hayami Shinya , Miyasaka Hitoshi
Published: July 2018

A novel tetraoxolene‐bridged Fe two‐dimensional honeycomb layered compound, (NPr4)2[Fe2(Cl2An)3] ⋅2 (acetone)⋅H2O (1), where Cl2Ann−=2,5‐dichloro‐3,6‐dihydroxy‐1,4‐benzoquinonate and NPr4+=tetrapropylammonium cation, has been synthesized. 1 revealed a thermally induced valence tautomeric transition at T1/2=236 K (cooling)/237 K (heating) between Fem+ (m=2 or 3) and Cl2Ann− (n=2 or 3) that induced valence modulations between [FeIIHSFeIIIHS(Cl2An2−)2(Cl2An.3−)]2− at T>T1/2 and [FeIIIHSFeIIIHS(Cl2An2−)(Cl2An.3−)2]2− at T<T1/2. Even in a two‐dimensional network structure, the low‐temperature phase [FeIIIHSFeIIIHS(Cl2An2−)(Cl2An.3−)2]2− valence set can be regarded as a magnetic chain‐knit network, where ferrimagnetic Δ and Λ chains of [FeIIIHS(Cl2An.3−)]∞ are alternately linked by the diamagnetic Cl2An2−. This results in a slow magnetization behavior attributed to the structure acting as a single‐chain magnet at lower temperatures.
Selective Capture of Toxic Selenite Anions by Bismuth‐based Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Ouyang Huan , Chen Ning , Chang Guojing , Zhao Xiaoliang , Sun Yuanyuan , Chen Shuai , Zhang Huawei , Yang Dongjiang
Published: July 2018

Chemically durable and effective absorbent materials for selenite (SeO32−) remain highly desirable for contamination remediation. Now a bismuth‐based metal–organic framework (Bi‐MOF, CAU‐17) was used as adsorbent to capture SeO32− anions from aqueous solution with ultrahigh adsorption capacity of 255.3 mg g−1 and fast kinetics. Furthermore, the adsorbent showed excellent selectivity for SeO32− and was able to work steadily in a broad pH range of 4–11. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation, XANES modeling, and EXAFS fitting suggested that SeO32− anions were immobilized by forming Bi−O−Se bonds (T‐3 structural model) though splitting the O−Bi−O bond in the crystal structure, leading to a structural transformation of CAU‐17 in the solid state.
The influence of hoop shear field on the structure and performances of glass fiber reinforced three‐layer polypropylene random copolymer pipe
Authors: Deng Chengji , Jin Biqiang , Zhao Zhihao , Shen Kaizhi , Zhang Jie
Published: July 2018

Three‐layer pipe has many advantages over single layer one, especially for the pipe of glass fiber (GF) reinforced materials. But the hoop strength of the pipe produced via convention extrusion is poor because GFs orient along axial direction. In this work, a self‐designed rotation extrusion system was adopted to extrude GF reinforced three‐layer polypropylene random copolymer (PPR) pipe, in which a hoop shear field was applied to the polymer matrix and fibers in the middle layer. The structure and performance of pipes were investigated via scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and synchrotron two‐dimensional wide‐angel X‐ray diffraction (2D‐WAXD). Due to the hoop shear field, the orientation of GFs in middle layer deviated from axial direction. As a result, PPR pipes with enhanced hoop tensile strength were obtained. Because of the three‐layer structure and the production process, the molecular chains of middle layer did not emerge distinct orientation after rotation shear, as shown in 2D‐WAXD and SEM experimental results. This three‐layer pipe rotation extrusion system offers a novel method for the modification of pipes in manufacture industry. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 46985.
Pharmacokinetic evaluation of daclatasvir and ledipasvir in healthy volunteers using a validated highly sensitive spectrofluorimetric method
Authors: Abdallah Ola M. , Abdel‐Megied Ahmed M. , Gouda Amira S.
Published: July 2018

A simple, highly sensitive and selective spectrofluorimetric method has been developed and fully validated for the determination of daclatasvir (DAC) and ledipasvir (LED) in tablets and human plasma. The method is based on measurement of the native fluorescence in methanol at λem 384 nm after excitation at λex 318 nm for DAC and in acetonitrile at λem 402 nm after excitation at λex 340 nm for LED. The fluorescence intensity (FI) concentration plot was rectilinear over the ranges 1.2–12, 0.1–18 ng ml−1 and 9–90, 1–100 ng ml−1 with a good correlation of r = 0.9994 to r = 0.9997 in standard solution and human plasma for DAC and LED, respectively. The extraction of analytes from plasma was performed using methanol and acetonitrile as a precipitating agent with lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) of 0.1 and 1.0 ng ml−1 for DAC and LED; respectively. The proposed method was validated according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines and successfully applied for estimating the pharmacokinetic parameters of DAC and LED following oral administrations of their tablets.
Stability, degradation impurities and decomposition kinetics for paliperidone from osmotic tablets
Authors: Cassol José Pedro Etchepare , de Souza Barbosa Fábio , Garcia Cássia V. , Mendez Andreas S.L.
Published: July 2018

The antipsychotic paliperidone was investigated with a focus on stability, degradation impurities and kinetics reaction profile. Osmotic tablets 3 mg (OROS®) were subjected to extraction in an ultrasonic bath and the resulting acidic solution was stressed by forced conditions. Degraded samples were monitored by HPLC–DAD in different storage times for acidic and alkaline hydrolysis, oxidation, heat and photolysis. Photolysis was shown to be a strong degradation factor, with a drug content of 24.64% remaining after 24 h. Oxidation (H2O2 18%) caused a slow decomposition, with a drug content of 83.49% remaining after 72 h. Through kinetics graphics, first‐order reactions were found for oxidation, heat and photolysis. By UPLC–MS analysis, the degraded matrix could be investigated for identification of impurities with m/z 445.3128, m/z 380.8906, m/z 364.9391, m/z 232.9832 and m/z 217.0076, allowing the identification of derivatives N‐oxide and with modifications in the lactam, benzisoxazole and pyrimidine rings. Paliperidone in liquid state, like analytical solutions or formulation, must be carefully handled to avoid drug exposure, specially in storage conditions.
Evaluation of higher‐order thinking skills using learning style in an undergraduate engineering in flipped classroom
Authors: Priyaadharshini Manickavasagam , Vinayaga Sundaram Bala
Published: July 2018

The Flipped classroom is an instructional strategy that has been adopted in many engineering universities and has proven to be effective methodology to improve the performance of the students in higher education. The Flipped classroom “flips” the traditional classroom; the students are involved with lecture notes or videos in out‐class sessions and engage in an interactive, and collaborative in‐class activities. In this research work, a model was proposed that incorporates the Visual, Auditory, Read and Kinesthetic (VARK) learning styles in a Flipped classroom which improves the higher order thinking skills of the learners. Higher order competency skills like Problem‐solving, Critical thinking, and Creative thinking were assessed in the cloud‐based Flipped classroom. MALAR competency for PCC (Problem‐Solving, Critical Thinking, and Creative Thinking) competency skills are considered for assessment of higher‐order competency skills of the learners.
Living Supramolecular Polymerisation of Perylene Diimide Amphiphiles by Seeded Growth under Kinetic Control
Authors: Jarrett‐Wilkins Charles , He Xiaoming , Symons Henry E. , Harniman Robert L. , Faul Charl F. J. , Manners Ian
Published: July 2018

The controlled solution self‐assembly of an amphiphilic perylene diimide (PDI), with a hydrophobic perylene core and hydrophilic imide substituents with polydisperse oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG) tethers is presented. It was possible, by a seeded‐growth mechanism, to form colloidally stable, one‐dimensional fibres with controllable lengths (from 400 to 1700 nm) and low dispersities (1.19–1.29) via a living supramolecular polymerisation process. Under the solvent conditions used, it was found that molecularly dissolved material (unimer) was present in samples of the fibre‐like supramolecular assemblies. The free unimer may be present in a conformationally derived kinetically trapped state and/or may represent a more soluble PDI fraction with longer hydrophilic tethers. Significantly, it was also possible to form segmented supramolecular block copolymers by the addition of PDI unimer to chemically distinct PDI seeds, yielding fibres with controlled lengths. These results represent a significant advance in the ability to form PDI‐based supramolecular polymers with precisely controlled lengths and architectures.
Single‐Site, Organometallic Aluminum Catalysts for the Precise Group Transfer Polymerization of Michael‐Type Monomers
Authors: Weger Michael , Giuman Marco M. , Knaus Maximilian G. , Ackermann Maximilian , Drees Markus , Hornung Julius , Altmann Philipp J. , Fischer Roland A. , Rieger Bernhard
Published: July 2018

Unlike different types of Lewis pairs as polymerization catalysts for acrylic monomers, organometallic aluminum(III) compounds are reported that show a surprisingly high polymerization activity even without an additional Lewis base. DFT calculations, end group analysis and kinetic investigations clearly suggest a main group element (MGE) group transfer polymerization (GTP) mechanism analogous to the known metal‐mediated GTP mechanism. The novel catalysts perform a precision polymerization of a broad variety of monomers, ranging from 2‐isopropenyl‐2‐oxazoline to tert‐butylmethacrylate and N,N‐dimethylacrylamide. Additionally, extended Michael‐type structures like 4‐vinyl pyridine are accessible. Especially the Al(III) half‐metallocenes show an almost quantitative initiator efficiency, and, combined with the living character of the polymerization reactions, they enable the synthesis of block copolymers, even with unconventional monomers like vinyl phosphonates.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Selective C−H Benzylation of Tertiary Arylamines by a Dearomatization‐Aromatization Sequence
Authors: Xu Guo‐Qiang , Feng Zhi‐Tao , Xu Ji‐Tao , Wang Zhu‐Yin , Qin Yong , Xu Peng‐Fei
Published: July 2018

Due to the significance of hybrid systems in drug discovery, there is an urgent need to assemble multiple biologically active ingredients into a single molecule. Here, we report a general transition‐metal‐free selective C−H benzylation of tertiary arylamines in good to excellent yields with a broad substrate scope and high functional‐group tolerance under mild conditions. Besides arylamines, some other benzene derivatives also readily furnished the corresponding diaryl methane derivatives with this protocol. A series of control experiments and theoretical calculations indicated that this transition‐metal‐free reaction is a dearomatization‐aromatization process.
Mn3O4/N‐Doped Graphite Catalysts from Wastewater for the Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Fan Mengmeng , Zhang Junjie , Yuan Fanshu , Zhang Weiwei , Chen Xiao , Chen Chuntao , Huang Yang , Qian Jieshu , Sun Dongping
Published: July 2018

The accelerating research interest in graphene involving the use of Hummers method has generated non‐negligible amount of wastewater containing residual graphite as well as Mn2+. In this paper, we report the first example of using this wastewater as precursor to prepare Mn3O4/N‐doped graphite (NG) composites through a facile solvothermal process. The mass fraction of Mn3O4 in the composites was manipulated by adding various amounts of extra Mn2+. The conversion of Mn2+ to Mn3O4 nanoparticles and the N atoms doping were achieved by adding hydrazine hydrate and ammonia into the system. The as‐obtained Mn3O4/NG composites were well characterized by SEM, TEM, EDS, Raman, XPS, TGA, XRD and N2 adsorption–desorption experiments and showed excellent catalytic performances as well as stability in the degradation of a model organic pollutant methylene blue (MB). Theoretical simulation was also carried out to illustrate the structural features of the Mn3O4/NG composite. This work presents a novel idea of designing functional materials from waste precursors.
Ultrafast Carotenoid to Retinal Energy Transfer in Xanthorhodopsin Revealed by the Combination of Transient Absorption and Two‐Dimensional Electronic Spectroscopy
Authors: Segatta Francesco , Gdor Itay , Réhault Julien , Taioli Simone , Friedman Noga , Sheves Mordechai , Rivalta Ivan , Ruhman Sanford , Cerullo Giulio , Garavelli Marco
Published: July 2018

By comparing two‐dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) and Pump‐Probe (PP) measurements on xanthorhodopsin (XR) and reduced‐xanthorhodopsin (RXR) complexes, the ultrafast carotenoid‐to‐retinal energy transfer pathway is revealed, at very early times, by an excess of signal amplitude at the associated cross‐peak and by the carotenoid bleaching reduction due to its ground state recovery. The combination of the measured 2DES and PP spectroscopic data with theoretical modelling allows a clear identification of the main experimental signals and a comprehensive interpretation of their origin and dynamics. The remarkable velocity of the energy transfer, despite the non‐negligible energy separation between the two chromophores, and the analysis of the underlying transport mechanism, highlight the role played by the ground state carotenoid vibrations in assisting the process.
Predatory Publishers
Authors: Böck Barbara
Published: July 2018

No abstract.
Das Silberbaum‐Paradoxon – verblüffende Effekte bei der Elektrolyse von Silbersalzlösungen
Authors: Fischer Rachel , Novotny Jana , Schedy Andreas , Oetken Marco
Published: July 2018

Warum entsteht bei der Elektrolyse einer Silbernitrat‐Lösung an der Anode ein metallisch glänzendes Fraktal? In der Schule wird dieses Experiment häufig mit einer niedrig konzentrierten Elektrolytlösung durchgeführt, sodass dieses Phänomen nicht zu beobachten ist. Theoriekonform entwickelt sich nur an der Kathode ein „Bäumchen“ aus elementarem Silber. Arbeitet man aber bei höheren Elektrolytkonzentrationen und entsprechendem Versuchsaufbau, kommt es erstaunlicherweise zur Bildung eines scheinbar doppelten Silberbäumchens. Die vorgestellten Experimente lassen den Leser in die Welt der höheren Silberoxide eintauchen und bieten außerdem einen faszinierenden Einblick in den ästhetischen Mikrokosmos der Silberfraktale.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Tripartin, a Putative KDM4 Natural Product Inhibitor, and 1‐Dichloromethylinden‐1‐ol Analogues
Authors: Guillade Lucía , Sarno Federica , Tarhonskaya Hanna , Nebbioso Angela , Alvarez Susana , Kawamura Akane , Schofield Christopher J. , Altucci Lucia , de Lera Ángel R.
Published: July 2018

The natural product tripartin has been reported to inhibit the N‐methyl‐lysine histone demethylase KDM4A. A synthesis of tripartin starting from 3,5‐dimethoxyphenylacrylic acid was developed, and the enantiomers were separated by chiral HPLC. We observed that both tripartin enantiomers manifested an apparent increase in H3K9me3 levels when dosed in cells, as measured by western blot analysis. Thus, there is no enantiomeric discrimination toward this natural product in terms of its effects on cellular histone methylation status. Interestingly, tripartin did not inhibit isolated KDM4A–E under our assay conditions (IC50>100 μm). Tripartin analogues with a dichloromethylcarbinol group derived from the indanone scaffold were synthesized and found to be inactive against isolated recombinant KDM4 enzymes and in cell‐based assays. Although the precise cellular mode of action of tripartin is unclear, our evidence suggests that it may affect histone methylation status via a mechanism other than direct inhibition of the KDM4 histone demethylases.
Size‐Dependent Phase Separation in Emulsion Droplets
Authors: Man Jia , Chien Steven , Liang Shuaishuai , Li Jiang , Chen Haosheng
Published: July 2018

The front cover artwork is provided by the Microfluidic and Interface Group (Prof. Haosheng Chen and Prof. Jiang Li). The image shows the phase separation process of PEGDA, glycerol, and ethanol tenary mixture, which is driven by the evaporation of ethanol. When applying UV‐treatment at different stages of phase separation, we can get microparticles with different structures, such as core‐shell and bowl structures. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.201701296.
The influence of corporate social responsibility on air pollution: Analysis of environmental regulation and eco‐innovation effects
Authors: Jiménez‐Parra Beatriz , Alonso‐Martínez Daniel , Godos‐Díez José‐Luis
Published: July 2018

Air pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems affecting the general population's health and wellbeing. This article analyses the role companies and public‐sector institutions play in reducing air pollution. Corporations are motivated by a social commitment and the need to improve their productive processes, while public bodies endeavour to reduce air pollution to improve citizens' quality of life. This paper drills down into the impact of eco‐innovation as a mechanism for companies to achieve this dual aim. We look at a set of 31 countries between 2006 and 2013 using fixed‐effects Ordinary Least Squares panel data methodology. The results corroborate the positive influence of corporate social responsibility on reducing air pollution. Furthermore, this influence is reinforced when environmental regulation is developed. Finally, we observe that eco‐innovations have a mediating effect on the relationship between sustainable firms and air pollution.
Aqueous‐Solution‐Based Approach Towards Carbon‐Free Sb2S3 Films for High Efficiency Solar Cells
Authors: Li Shi'ang , Zhang Yan , Tang Rongfeng , Wang Xiaomin , Zhang Tong , Jiang Guoshun , Liu Weifeng , Zhu Changfei , Chen Tao
Published: July 2018

Sb2S3 is a new kind of photovoltaic material that is promising for practical application in solar cells owing to its suitable bandgap, earth‐abundant elements, and excellent stability. Here, we report on an aqueous‐solution‐based approach for the synthesis of Sb2S3 films from easily accessible Sb2O3 as antimony source. In this reaction, 3‐mercaptopropionic acid was applied as both solvent and sulfur precursor, aqueous ammonia was employed as a solvent. After simple annealing at a temperature as low as 270 °C, the spin‐coated precursor solution can generate compact, flat, uniform, and well‐crystallized Sb2S3 film. Mechanistic study showed that the formation of Sb‐complex with ammonium carboxylates leads to the successful dissolution of Sb2O3 powder. A suitable annealing process was able to generate carbon‐free Sb2S3 films. Planar heterojunction solar cell based on the as‐prepared Sb2S3 film delivered a power conversion efficiency of 5.57 %, which is the highest efficiency of solution‐processed planar heterojunction Sb2S3 solar cells and a high value in all kinds of Sb2S3 solar cells. This research provides a convenient approach for the fabrication of device‐quality Sb2S3 films, and highlights solution processing of carbon‐free metal chalcogenide thin films as a suitable process for application in optoelectronic devices.
Synthesis of a Highly Efficient Oxygen‐Evolution Electrocatalyst by Incorporation of Iron into Nanoscale Cobalt Borides
Authors: Klemenz Sebastian , Schuch Jona , Hawel Stefan , Zieschang Anne‐Marie , Kaiser Bernhard , Jaegermann Wolfram , Albert Barbara
Published: July 2018

High‐performance catalysts for the oxygen‐evolution reaction in water electrolysis are usually based on expensive and rare elements. Herein, mixed‐metal borides are shown to be competitive with established electrocatalysts like noble metal oxides and other transition‐metal(oxide)‐based catalysts. Iron incorporation into nanoscale dicobalt boride results in excellent activity and stability in alkaline solutions. (Co0.7Fe0.3)2B shows an overpotential of η=0.33 V (1.56 V vs. RHE) at 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH with a very low onset potential of ≈1.5 V vs. RHE, comparable to the performance of IrO2 and RuO2. XPS shows that the original catalyst is modified under the reaction conditions and indicates that CoOOH and Co(OH)2 are formed as active surface species, whereas the Fe remains in the catalyst, contributing to an improved catalyst performance. The nanoscale borides are obtained by a one‐step solution synthesis, calcined, and characterized by XRD, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and SEM. Single crystals of (Co1−xFex)2B grown under chemical transport conditions were used for an unambiguous specification of the nanostructured particles by relating the cobalt/iron ratio to the lattice parameters.
How I learned to stop fearing: Ideological differences in choice of reappraisal content
Authors: Cohen Racheli , Pliskin Ruthie , Halperin Eran
Published: July 2018

In down‐regulating intergroup fear, an intense emotion common to intractable intergroup conflicts, people may employ various fear‐reducing appraisals. Adopting a motivated reasoning perspective, we posited that the contents of individuals’ ideological beliefs influence the contents they employ to down‐regulate fear, with rightists preferring ingroup‐empowering content and leftists preferring outgroup‐weakening content. In Study 1, rightists (vs. leftists) reported greater use of ingroup‐empowering reappraisal to down‐regulate fear, but no differences emerged in the use of outgroup‐weakening reappraisal. Study 2 manipulated the contents’ perceived instrumentality in reducing fear, to examine this as an alternative mechanism. Perceived instrumentality influenced participants’ behavioral content preferences ahead of a fear induction, but the manipulation did not mitigate the right‐left differences in ingroup‐empowering reappraisal use once participants were confronted with the stimulus, replicating Study 1. Study 3 extended these findings, identifying ideological differences in two additional fear‐reappraisal themes and in the attitudinal outcomes of fear regulation.