bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyalphaolefins [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 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 polyalphaolefins [e.g.
68649‐11‐6
].

Polyalphaolefins are synthetic mineral oils. For refined mineral oils, the critical effect is lung toxicity which is observed as microgranulomas in two long‐term studies with rats and dogs at a respirable aerosol concentration of 100 mg/m
3
with a NOAEC of 5 mg/m
3
. With these studies, a MAK value of 5 mg/m
3
had been set as the respirable fraction (R) for polyalphaolefins. This value is now reaffirmed even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c).

Polyalphaolefins had been classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C because of studies with oral and dermal application in rats. Additionally, now an inhalation study with white mineral oil and a NOAEC for developmental toxicity of 1000 mg/m
3
in rats is used to confirm the assignment of polyalphaolefins to Pregnancy Risk Group C even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace.
Methyl acetate [MAK Value Documentation, 2016]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 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 work place (MAK value) of methyl acetate [79‐20‐9] of 100 ml/m3considering the critical endpoint respiratory tract irritation. A 28‐day study with rats shows a NOAEC for degeneration and necrosis of the olfactory epithelium of 350 ml/m3. A chronic NAEC of 125 to 167 ml/m3can be extrapolated. Since 2014, the Commission uses an empirical approach to set MAK values for substances with critical effects on the upper respiratory tract or the eyes. According to this approach, the NAEC would correspond to a concentration of 63 to 84 ml/m3for work place air. However, acetic acid resulting from the local enzymatic cleavage of methyl acetate by carboxylesterases is responsible for the effects to the olfactory epithelium, and not the substance itself. Thus, the activity of rat and human carboxylesterases is decisive in the respiratory tract irritation of methyl acetate. Based on a comparative analysis on vinyl acetate, in which rat olfactory enzyme activity was shown to be almost equivalent to that in humans, the same is assumed for methyl acetate and the interspecies extrapolation step is deemed unnecessary. The MAK value is retained at 100 ml/m3. As local effects are critical, the assignment to Peak Limitation Category I and the excursion factor of 4 are also retained.
White mineral oil, pharmaceutical [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 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 pharmaceutical white mineral oil [
8042‐47‐5
].

Critical effect is lung toxicity which is observed as microgranulomas in two long‐term studies with rats and dogs at a respirable aerosol concentration of 100 mg/m
3
with a NOAEC of 5 mg/m
3
. A MAK value of 5 mg/m
3
had been set as the respirable fraction (R). This value is now reaffirmed even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c).

Pharmaceutical white mineral oil had been classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C because the NOAEC for developmental toxicity is 1000 mg/m
3
in rats. There is no new data on developmental toxicity. This classification is retained even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace.
N
‐Vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone [MAK Value Documentation, 2014]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone [
88‐12‐0
], considering all toxicological endpoints. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail.

The main critical effects are the carcinogenic effects in the liver, nose and larynx after inhalation, with cell proliferation in the liver and degeneration and hyperplasia in the nasal epithelium starting at 0.5 ml/m
3
being the most sensitive endpoints. The no observed adverse effect concentration (NOAEC) for both organs is 0.2 ml/m
3
. As a NOAEC was obtained and the substance is not genotoxic,
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone is classified in Carcinogen Category 4.

As the NOAEC of 0.2 ml/m
3
for cell proliferation in the liver after 28 days was lower than that after 7 days, a MAK value for
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone of 0.02 ml/m
3
has been established, taking into account the short study duration. As the MAK value is derived from a systemic effect, the substance is classified in Peak Limitation Category II with the default excursion factor of 2, because the half‐life in humans is not known.

In a developmental toxicity study in rats,
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone at 20 ml/m
3
markedly reduced body weights in dams and foetuses and increased the incidence of variations in foetuses. As developmental toxicity occurred at a maternally toxic concentration, and the 250‐fold difference between the NOAEC for developmental toxicity of 5 ml/m
3
and the MAK value of 0.02 ml/m
3
is sufficiently large,
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C.

N
‐Vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone is neither mutagenic nor clastogenic and therefore not classified in one of the categories for germ cell mutagens.

As the amount calculated to be absorbed through the skin is far above the amount absorbed daily by exposure at the level of the MAK value,
N
‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone is designated with an “H” (for substances that can be absorbed through the skin in systemically toxic amounts).

The substance is not regarded as a sensitizer, because there are no corresponding clinical findings in humans and a Buehler test in guinea pigs was negative.
Decahydronaphthalene [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 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) for decahydronaphthalene [
91‐17‐8
].

Critical effect is kidney toxicity which is observed as increased activity of urinary lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in a 14‐week inhalation study with rats beginning at the lowest concentration of 25 ml/m
3
with a lower confidence limit of the benchmark dose (BMDL) of 12 ml/m
3
. A MAK value of 5 ml/m
3
has been set. This value is now reaffirmed even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c).

As there is no new data, Peak Limitation Category II with excursion factor of 2 is retained and decahydronaphthalene remains assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group D.
Isopropyl benzene (Cumene) [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 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) for isopropyl benzene [
98‐82‐8
].

Critical effects after repeated inhalation exposure to isopropyl benzene are the induction of tumours in the lung of mice and in the nose of rats as well as effects on the liver in these species. The classification of isopropyl benzene in Category 3 B for carcinogenic substances is retained. Based on the increased liver weight in a 14‐week inhalation study with rats, a MAK value of 10 ml/m
3
has been set. This value is now reaffirmed even considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c). As there was a change in the Commissions evaluation on the adversity of increased liver weight, the new evaluation is based on the lower confidence limit of the benchmark dose (BMDL) of 42 ml/m
3
for nasal adenoma in male rats in a two‐year inhalation study.

As there is no new data, Peak Limitation Category II with excursion factor of 4 is retained and isopropyl benzene remains assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group C. Isopropyl benzene also remains designated with an “H” (for substances that can be absorbed through the skin in toxicologically relevant amounts).
Nitrobenzene [MAK Value Documentation, 2017]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated carcinogenicity of nitrobenzene [98‐95‐3], considering all endpoints. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail.

The genotoxic potential of nitrobenzene is low and might be a result of reactive oxygen species. Long‐term studies with exposure by inhalation resulted in a significant increase in liver and kidney adenomas in rats, and lung and mammary adenomas in mice. In severely toxic concentrations a nonsignificant increase in carcinomas was observed, probably resulting from a chronic toxic mechanism, supported by secondary genotoxic or DNA‐damaging effects at high doses. In view of other aromatic amines and the known mechanisms of action via phenylhydroxylamine, nitrobenzene is considered to be carcinogenic. Because of the non‐linear dose‐response relationship of the tumour incidences and as genotoxic effects play a minor part, nitrobenzene is classified in Carcinogen Category 4.

Eye and skin irritation from nitrobenzene is low. The critical effect is the bronchialisation in the lungs of mice in a long‐term inhalation study. However, the incidence of bronchialisation at the lowest tested concentration of 5 ml/m3is too high to calculate a NAEC. One long‐term inhalation study in Sprague‐Dawley rats resulted in a NOAEC of 1 ml/m3, another one in F344 rats showed minimal extramedullary haematopoesis in the spleen of males at the lowest tested concentration of 1 ml/m3. Using this concentration as point of departure, a MAK value of 0.1 ml/m3is calculated, which is far below the LOAEC of the critical effect in the mouse lung.

As the MAK value is derived from a systemic effect, nitrobenzene is assigned to Peak Limitation Category II. Because of the initial half‐life of 5 hours, the excursion factor of 4 is set.

Skin contact may contribute significantly to systemic toxicity; therefore, the “H” notation is retained.

Damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely when the MAK value is observed and thus, the substance is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C.

Sensitization is not expected from the limited data.
Moderate Physical Activity and Prevention of Cartilage Loss in People With Knee Osteoarthritis: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Bricca Alessio , Wirth Wolfgang , Juhl Carsten B. , Kemnitz Jana , Hunter David J. , Kwoh C. Kent , Eckstein Felix , Culvenor Adam G.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To examine the impact of physical activity on cartilage thickness loss in knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A total of 689 participants with radiographic knee OA at baseline (Kellgren/Lawrence grade ≥2) from the Osteoarthritis Initiative completed the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) questionnaires at annual intervals over 4 years. Magnetic resonance imaging–based cartilage thickness change in the medial femorotibial compartment (MFTC) over 4 years was the main outcome. The impact of PASE tertiles (low, moderate, or high) on changes in MFTC cartilage thickness was estimated using a mixed‐effects model adjusted for baseline characteristics. Furthermore, stratification by sex was performed for secondary analyses.

Results

Structural progression of MFTC cartilage loss of −0.20 mm (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −0.22, −0.17) was observed in the entire cohort, with no significant difference between physical activity levels after adjustment for baseline characteristics. An interaction between sex and physical activity was observed in the adjusted analysis (P = 0.02). Stratification by sex showed that women with low physical activity had a statistically greater cartilage loss than women with moderate physical activity (adjusted between‐group difference –0.09 mm [95% CI –0.16, 0.02]), whereas no significant differences were observed in men.

Conclusion

While physical activity was not associated with cartilage thickness loss in the whole cohort, this relationship significantly differed between sexes. In women, but not in men, moderate physical activity may slow down structural disease progression compared to low physical activity levels. For both men and women, high physical activity levels do not appear to be more detrimental than lower physical activity levels for cartilage thickness loss.
Adaptive neural control of MIMO uncertain nonlinear systems with unmodeled dynamics and output constraint
Authors: Zhang Tianping , Liu Heqing , Xia Meizhen , Yi Yang
Published: October 2018

In this paper, an adaptive dynamic surface control (DSC) method is investigated for a class of multiple‐input–multiple‐output block‐structure uncertain nonlinear systems with unmodeled dynamics and output constraint. Modified DSC is used to construct the vector virtual control and control strategy in recursive each step. A dynamic signal is used to handle unmodeled dynamics in the system. Radial basis function neural networks are used to estimate the unknown continuous black‐box functions. By introducing the symmetric barrier Lyapunov functions, the constraint requirement of each element in the output is guaranteed in the designed adaptive control system. Using the defined compact set in the theoretical analysis and the proof characteristics of DSC, the introduced input uncertain term is effectively deal with in the controller design. The stability analysis shows that all the signals in the closed‐loop control system are semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded. A numerical simulation example with the two‐link flexible robotic system is provided to verify the effectiveness of the constructed control scheme.
New CARF certification to focus on ASAM levels of care
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2018

The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and CARF International (CARF) are launching a national certification program for addiction treatment programs that demonstrate the ability to deliver services consistent with the ASAM levels of care. This is a certification, not an accreditation, program.
Micropatterned Scaffolds with Immobilized Growth Factor Genes Regenerate Bone and Periodontal Ligament‐Like Tissues
Authors: Pilipchuk Sophia P. , Fretwurst Tobias , Yu Ning , Larsson Lena , Kavanagh Nolan M. , Asa'ad Farah , Cheng Kenneth C. K. , Lahann Joerg , Giannobile William V.
Published: October 2018

Periodontal disease destroys supporting structures of teeth. However, tissue engineering strategies offer potential to enhance regeneration. Here, the strategies of patterned topography, spatiotemporally controlled growth factor gene delivery, and cell‐based therapy to repair bone–periodontal ligament (PDL) interfaces are combined. Micropatterned scaffolds are fabricated for the ligament regions using polycaprolactone (PCL)/polylactic‐co‐glycolic acid and combined with amorphous PCL scaffolds for the bone region. Scaffolds are modified using chemical vapor deposition, followed by spatially controlled immobilization of vectors encoding either platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB or bone morphogenetic protein‐7, respectively. The scaffolds are seeded with human cells and delivered to large alveolar bone defects in athymic rats. The effects of dual and single gene delivery with and without micropatterning are assessed after 3, 6, and 9 weeks. Gene delivery results in greater bone formation at three weeks. Micropatterning results in regenerated ligamentous tissues similar to native PDL. The combination results in more mature expression of collagen III and periostin, and with elastic moduli of regenerated tissues that are statistically indistinguishable from those of native tissue, while controls are less stiff than native tissues. Thus, controlled scaffold microtopography combined with localized growth factor gene delivery improves the regeneration of periodontal bone–PDL interfaces.
Surface modification of polypropylene nonwoven fabrics by grafting of polydopamine
Authors: Chen Shichang , Zhang Lihao , Sun Menghan , Zhang Xianming , Chen Wenxing
Published: October 2018

A nonwoven fabrics based on 3‐isopropenyl‐α,α′‐dimethylbenzene isocyanate grafting polypropylene (PP‐g‐TMI) was modified with dopamine both by covalent reaction and by polymer layer deposition involving straightforward self‐polymerization (PP‐PDA) to improve the hydrophilic property of polypropylene nonwoven fabrics. The functionalized surfaces were characterized by structural and morphological analysis combined with the rheological property to confirm the location and dispersion ofPDA. The water contact angle, water absorption ability, and the vapor transmission rate were examined to evaluate the hydrophilicity performance of modified materials. It was found that the aggregated small particles onPPnonwoven fabric could result in a heterogeneous surface, and the modifiedPPnonwoven fabric with dopamine indicated a lower water contact angle and better hydrophilicity that the water absorption ability nearly soared to ten times that ofPPnonwoven fabric withoutPDA.
Atomistic Investigation of Doping Effects on Electrocatalytic Properties of Cobalt Oxides for Water Oxidation
Authors: Kim Byunghoon , Park Inchul , Yoon Gabin , Kim Ju Seong , Kim Hyunah , Kang Kisuk
Published: October 2018

The development of high‐performance oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts is crucial to achieve the clean production of hydrogen via water splitting. Recently, Co‐based oxides have been intensively investigated as some of the most efficient and cost‐effective OER catalysts. In particular, compositional tuning of Co‐based oxides via doping or substitution is shown to significantly affect their catalytic activity. Nevertheless, the origin of this enhanced catalytic activity and the reaction mechanism occurring at catalytic active sites remain controversial. Theoretical investigations are performed on the electrocatalytic properties of pristine and transition metal (Fe, Ni, and Mn)‐substituted Co oxides using first‐principle calculations. A comprehensive evaluation of the doping effects is conducted by considering various oxygen local environments in the crystal structure, which helps elucidate the mechanism behind the doping‐induced enhancement of Co‐based catalysts. It is demonstrated that the local distortion induced by dopant cations remarkably facilitates the catalysis at a specific site by modulating the hydrogen bonding. In particular, the presence of Jahn–Teller‐active Fe(IV) is shown to result in a substantial reduction in the overpotential at the initially inactive catalysis site without compromising the activity of the pristine active sites, supporting previous experimental observations of exceptional OER performance for Fe‐containing Co oxides.
Atom‐Transfer Radical Addition Photocatalysis Using a Heteroleptic Copper Complex
Authors: Matsuo Kazuki , Yamaguchi Eiji , Itoh Akichika
Published: October 2018

Herein, we describe a photocatalyzed atom‐transfer radical addition (ATRA) reaction using a heteroleptic copper(I) complex bearing a bipyridyl‐based NN ligand and a 2,2′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl (BINAP) based PP ligand. The selected heteroleptic complex was [Cu(BINAP)(cup)](PF6), which was used because of its intense absorption in the visible region and its long excited‐state lifetime. The reported copper photocatalyzed reactions of olefins with carbon tetrabromide afford the products in moderate‐to‐excellent yields under irradiation with a 3 W, 400 nm light emitting diode (LED).
Alkene Synthesis Using Phosphonium Ylides as Umpolung Reagents
Authors: Duy Vu Minh , Leng Wei‐Lin , Hsu Hao‐Cheng , Liu Xue‐Wei
Published: October 2018

We report a transformation between a well‐known nucleophile, phosphonium ylide, and an electrophile. Subsequent ylide‐ylide coupling achieves unusual (Z)‐selectivity as compared to the conventional Wittig olefination. The synthesis of medium‐sized ring olefins has also been demonstrated, together with a one‐pot olefination from activated halides.
Simultaneous Trapping of C2H2 and C2H6 from a Ternary Mixture of C2H2/C2H4/C2H6 in a Robust Metal–Organic Framework for the Purification of C2H4
Authors: Hao Hong‐Guo , Zhao Yun‐Feng , Chen Di‐Ming , Yu Jia‐Mei , Tan Kui , Ma Shengqian , Chabal Yves , Zhang Zhi‐Ming , Dou Jian‐Min , Xiao Zi‐Hui , Day Gregory , Zhou Hong‐Cai , Lu Tong‐Bu
Published: October 2018

The removal of C2H2 and C2H6 from C2H4 streams is of great significance for feedstock purification to produce polyethylene and other commodity chemicals but the simultaneous adsorption of C2H6 and C2H2 over C2H4 from a ternary mixture has never been realized. Herein, a robust metal–organic framework, TJT‐100, was designed and synthesized, which demonstrates remarkably selective adsorption of C2H2 and C2H6 over C2H4. Breakthrough experiments show that TJT‐100 can be used as an adsorbent for high‐performance purification of C2H4 from a ternary mixture of C2H2/C2H4/C2H6 (0.5:99:0.5) to afford a C2H4 purity greater than 99.997 %, beyond that required for ethylene polymerization. Computational studies reveal that the uncoordinated carboxylate oxygen atoms and coordinated water molecules pointing towards the pore can trap C2H2 and C2H6 through the formation of multiple C−H⋅⋅⋅O electrostatic interactions, while the corresponding C2H4–framework interaction is unfavorable.
Mechanistische Studien in der Photokatalyse
Authors: Buzzetti Luca , Crisenza Giacomo E. M. , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: October 2018

Die sich rasant entwickelnden Felder der Photo‐ und Photoredoxkatalyse bieten neue Gelegenheiten, das Potential der synthetisch‐organischen Chemie zu erweitern. Fortschritte bei photokatalytischen Prozessen haben sich bisher vor allem aus empirischen Entdeckungen und der Suche nach neuen Reaktionen ergeben. Die allgemeine Wahrnehmung jedoch ist, dass die Photokatalyse in eine reifere Phase eintritt, in der die Kombination experimenteller und mechanistischer Studien eine Vorreiterrolle für weitere Innovationen spielt. Dieser Aufsatz beschreibt die mechanistischen Schlüsselstudien, die bei der Entwicklung photochemischer Prozesse in Betracht gezogen werden sollten, sowie die geeignetsten verfügbaren Techniken zur Gewinnung relevanter Informationen. Die Diskussion verweist auf ausgewählte Fallstudien, um zu zeigen, wie mechanistische Untersuchungen eine instrumentelle Rolle bei der Entdeckung und Entwicklung synthetisch nützlicher, photokatalytischer Transformationen spielen können.
All‐Inorganic Ionic Porous Material Based on Giant Spherical Polyoxometalates Containing Core‐Shell K6@K36‐Water Cage
Authors: Li Zhong , Lin Li‐Dan , Yu Hao , Li Xin‐Xiong , Zheng Shou‐Tian
Published: October 2018

This work demonstrates that the use of high‐negative and high‐symmetry lacunary polyoxometalates (POMs) for the clustering of alkali metal ions is a feasible strategy not only for the formation of rare high‐nuclearity alkali‐metal clusters but also for the construction of new‐type all‐inorganic ionic porous materials. By the strategy, an unprecedented high‐nuclearity K‐H2O cluster {K42(H2O)60} with core–shell K6@K36 configuration is stabilized by 8 C3v‐symmetry trivacant POMs [GeW9O34]10−, forming a novel giant ionic alkali‐metal‐POM composite cluster {K42Ge8W72O272(H2O)60} with more than 100 metal centers. The incorporated 42‐nuclearity K‐H2O cluster {K42(H2O)60} exhibits the highest‐nuclearity alkali‐metal‐water cluster known to date in POM chemistry. Further, the giant {K42Ge8W72O272(H2O)60} clusters can be linked by another kind of alkali metal ions Na+ to generate a fascinating three‐dimensional all‐inorganic ionic porous framework with high chemical stability, proton conductivity, and water vapor adsorption.
Null Exciton Splitting in Chromophoric Greek Cross (+) Aggregate
Authors: Sebastian Ebin , Philip Abbey M. , Benny Alfy , Hariharan Mahesh
Published: October 2018

Exciton interactions in molecular aggregates play a crucial role in tailoring the optical behaviour of π‐conjugated materials. Though vital for optoelectronic applications, ideal Greek cross‐dipole (α=90°) stacking of chromophores remains elusive. We report a novel Greek cross (+) assembly of 1,7‐dibromoperylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic tetrabutylester (PTE‐Br2) which exhibits null exciton coupling mediated monomer‐like optical characteristics in the crystalline state. In contrast, nonzero exciton coupling in X‐type (α=70.2°, PTE‐Br0) and J‐type (α=0°, θ=48.4°, PTE‐Br4) assemblies have perturbed optical properties. Additionally, the semi‐classical Marcus theory of charge‐transfer rates predicts a selective hole transport phenomenon in the orthogonally stacked PTE‐Br2. Precise rotation angle dependent optoelectronic properties in crystalline PTE‐Br2 can have consequences in the rational design of novel π‐conjugated materials for photonic and molecular electronic applications.
Mechanistic Studies in Photocatalysis
Authors: Buzzetti Luca , Crisenza Giacomo E. M. , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: October 2018

The fast‐moving fields of photoredox and photocatalysis have recently provided fresh opportunities to expand the potential of synthetic organic chemistry. Advances in light‐mediated processes have mainly been guided so far by empirical findings and the quest for reaction invention. The general perception, however, is that photocatalysis is entering a more mature phase where the combination of experimental and mechanistic studies will play a dominant role in sustaining further innovation. This Review outlines the key mechanistic studies to consider when developing a photochemical process, and the best techniques available for acquiring relevant information. The discussion will use selected case studies to highlight how mechanistic investigations can be instrumental in guiding the invention and development of synthetically useful photocatalytic transformations.
Characterization of 39 microsatellite markers from Nuphar shimadai (Nymphaeaceae) and cross‐amplification in two related taxa
Authors: Lu Hsueh‐Yu , Shih Huei‐Chuan , Ju Li‐Ping , Hwang Chao‐Ching , Chiang Yu‐Chung
Published: October 2018

Premise of the Study

Microsatellite loci were developed for Nuphar shimadai (Nymphaeaceae) to evaluate the population genetic dynamics for conservation purposes. The species is an endemic aquatic species in Taiwan that is endangered by anthropogenic activities.

Methods and Results

A magnetic bead enrichment protocol was used to identify 72 potential microsatellite loci and develop 39 microsatellite markers from N. shimadai. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to 10 per locus, with levels of observed heterozygosity ranging from 0 to 1.0 within populations. As a result of inbreeding within isolated populations, 65% of loci significantly deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium within populations.

Conclusions

These novel markers should be valuable tools to evaluate the genetic diversity within the endangered aquatic taxon N. shimadai for conservation and reintroduction purposes in Taiwan.
Evolution and Development of the Atrial Septum
Authors: Jensen Bjarke , Wang Tobias , Moorman Antoon F.M.
Published: October 2018

The complete division of the atrial cavity by a septum, resulting in a left and right atrium, is found in many amphibians and all amniotes (reptiles, birds, and mammals). Surprisingly, it is only in eutherian, or placental, mammals that full atrial septation necessitates addition from a second septum. The high incidence of incomplete closure of the atrial septum in human, so‐called probe patency, suggests this manner of closure is inefficient. We review the evolution and development of the atrial septum to understand the peculiar means of forming the atrial septum in eutherian mammals. The most primitive atrial septum is found in lungfishes and comprises a myocardial component with a mesenchymal cap on its leading edge, reminiscent to the primary atrial septum of embryonic mammals before closure of the primary foramen. In reptiles, birds, and mammals, the primary foramen is closed by the mesenchymal tissues of the atrioventricular cushions, the dorsal mesenchymal protrusion, and the mesenchymal cap. These tissues are also found in lungfishes. The closure of the primary foramen is preceded by the development of secondary perforations in the septal myocardium. In all amniotes, with the exception of eutherian mammals, the secondary perforations do not coalesce to a secondary foramen. Instead, the secondary perforations persist and are sealed by myocardial and endocardial growth after birth or hatching. We suggest that the error‐prone secondary foramen allows large volumes of oxygen‐rich blood to reach the cardiac left side, needed to sustain the growth of the extraordinary large offspring that characterizes eutherian mammals. Anat Rec, 302:32–48, 2019. © 2018 The Authors. The Anatomical Record published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Association of Anatomists.
1,8‐Substituted Pyrene Derivatives for High‐Performance Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Gong Xiaojie , Zheng Chaoyue , Feng Xingcui , Huan Yihong , Li Jiewei , Yi Mingdong , Fu Zhenqian , Huang Wei , Gao Deqing
Published: October 2018

There have been many reports on the application of pyrene derivatives as organic semiconductors, but 1,8‐subsituted pyrene semiconductors are less well‐developed. Two p‐type 1,8‐substituted pyrene derivatives were synthesized that were composed of a pyrene core, thiophene or bithiophene arms, and end‐capped octyl chains. These structures were not completely symmetrical and the dihedral angles between the pyrene core and the adjacent thiophene units had a difference of approximately two degrees. The field‐effect performance of these materials was tested on a variety of dielectric surfaces. The performance of both materials with a spin‐coated polystyrene layer on SiO2 (PS‐treated SiO2) was better than that with an octadecyltrichlorosilane self‐assembled monolayer on SiO2 (OTS‐treated SiO2), which was mainly attributed to the presence of large grains on the low‐leakage and high‐capacitance PS films. The thiophene‐contained compound presented a hole mobility of up to 0.18 cm2 V−1 s−1 on PS‐treated SiO2, which was 45 times that of the bithiophene‐contained compound, owing to less steric hindrance, high crystallinity, and large grain size.
Detection of convective systems through surface wind gust estimation based on Sentinel‐1 images: A new approach
Authors: La Tran Vu , Messager Christophe , Honnorat Marc , Channelliere Claire
Published: October 2018

Convective system (CS) tracking and identification are mainly based on the analyses of brightness temperature and precipitation. Few studies reported about the detection of CSs through surface wind gust estimation due to CS downdraft reaching sea surface. Based on high‐resolution Sentinel‐1 images, this study proposes the detection of CS signatures through an enhancement of surface wind magnitude in the vicinity of CSs. The CMOD5.N and Sapp's model (CMOD‐like function) are used for the retrieval of surface wind speed from VV‐pol and HH‐pol images, respectively. Based on numerous cases, the study presents the retrieved winds from two representative Sentinel‐1 images acquired over the Gulf of Mexico, on which several types of CS effect on sea surface (i.e., round form, convection line) are detected. Wind gust produced by the downdraft associated to these CSs exceeds 20–25 m/s. In order to verify whether the detected wind gust is associated to CSs, moderate/heavy precipitation extracted from the Next‐Generation Radar (NEXRAD) images is used as an additional assessment.
The polite wiggle‐room effect in charity donation decisions
Authors: Juanchich Marie , Sirota Miroslav , Bonnefon Jean‐François
Published: October 2018

We extend research on charity donations by exploring an everyday tactic for increasing compliance: asking politely. We consider three possible effects of politeness on charity donations: a positive effect, a negative effect, and a wiggle‐room effect where the perception of the request is adjusted to decline donating without feeling selfish. Results from six experiments systematically supported the polite wiggle‐room effect. In hypothetical donations contexts, indirect requests were judged more polite. In real donation contexts, though, indirect requests were not judged as more polite and had no consistent effect on donation decision. Rather, the decision to donate predicted the perceived politeness of the request, independently of its phrasing. Experiment 4 provided causal evidence that participants justified their donation decisions by adjusting their perception of the request. The polite wiggle‐room effect has important implications for organizations that seek to increase compliance while maintaining a positive image.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Beijing: Epidemiologic features and prognosis from 2010 to 2015
Authors: Zhou Shenghan , Zhou Yuliang , Qian Silin , Chang Wenbing , Wang Liping , Fan Dongsheng
Published: October 2018

Objective

To determine the incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in Beijing from 2010 to 2015 and to address the issue of prognosis.

Methods

The number of patients diagnosed with ALS was generated from two aspects, namely, diagnostic hospitals and assisted care institutions. By examining the consistency of the overlapping data in terms of age and gender distributions, the number of ALS patients in Beijing was estimated to analyze the incidence. Finally, a prognosis study was carried out by sorting the clinical data of deceased patients to associate time to death with the demographic characteristics, including gender, age at diagnosis, site of onset, body mass index, and lag from onset to diagnosis.

Results

The average yearly incidence was 0.8/100,000 persons, the male–female ratio was 1.63:1, and the mean age at diagnosis was 54.11 years. The mean time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 14.8 months, and the median survival time from diagnosis was 49.4 months. In addition, each of the identified clinical features was related to the survival of the patients with ALS.

Conclusions

The incidence of ALS in Beijing is similar to the rates in Hong Kong and Taiwan but is lower than the rates in Europe and America. In addition, the mean age at onset of the patients in Beijing was early, and overall ALS prognosis appears to be comparable to those reported in recent publications.
Adherence to postresection colorectal cancer surveillance at National Cancer Institute‐designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers
Authors: Kupfer Sonia S. , Lubner Sam , Coronel Emmanuel , Pickhardt Perry J. , Tipping Matthew , Graffy Peter , Keenan Eileen , Ross Eric , Li Tianyu , Weinberg David S.
Published: October 2018

Guidelines recommend surveillance after resection of colorectal cancer (CRC), but rates of adherence to surveillance are variable and have not been studied at National Cancer Institute (NCI)‐designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers. The aim of this study was to determine rates of adherence to standard postresection CRC surveillance recommendations including physician visits, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), computed tomography (CT), and colonoscopy after CRC resection at three NCI‐designated centers.

Data on patients with resected CRC from 2010 to 2017 were reviewed. Adherence to physician visits was defined as having at least two visits within 14 months after surgical resection. CEA adherence was defined as having at least four CEA levels drawn within 14 months. CT and colonoscopy adherence were defined as completing each between 10 and 14 months from surgical resection. Chi‐square test and logistic regression analyses were performed for overall adherence and adherence to individual components.

A total of 241 CRC patients were included. Overall adherence was 23%. While adherence to physician visits was over 98%, adherence to CEA levels, CT, and colonoscopy were each less than 50%. Center was an independent predictor of adherence to CEA, CT, and/or colonoscopy. Stage III disease predicted CT adherence, while distance traveled of 40 miles or less predicted colonoscopy adherence.

Overall adherence to postresection CRC guideline‐recommended care is low at NCI‐designated centers. Adherence rates to surveillance vary by center, stage, and distance traveled for care. Understanding factors associated with adherence is critical to ensure CRC patients benefit from postresection surveillance.
Dihydroartemisinin induces apoptosis and inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion in epithelial ovarian cancer via inhibition of the hedgehog signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Yanmei , Gao Shujun , Zhu Jie , Zheng Ya , Zhang Haiyan , Sun Hong
Published: October 2018

Dihydroartemisinin (DHA), the primary of artemisinin extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Artemisia annua, has been used in malaria treatment for a long time. Recently, many studies have indicated that, in addition to antimalarial effects, DHA also exhibits anticancer activity in certain types of neoplasms, including ovarian cancer. However, the precise anti‐ovarian cancer mechanism of DHA is still unclear. Abnormal activation of the hedgehog (Hh) pathway is closely related to tumorigenesis and progression of ovarian cancer. We performed this study to elucidate the effects of DHA on the biological behavior of ovarian cancer cells and to determine its effects on the Hh signaling pathway. CCK8 assays and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the effects of DHA on cell viability and apoptosis in both ovarian cancer cells and HOSEPICs (human ovarian surface epithelial cells) in response to DHA treatment. Transwell membrane chambers were used to analyze the effects of DHA on the migration and invasion of epithelial ovarian cancer cells following treatment with DHA. The impact of DHA on Hh signaling was analyzed by RT‐qPCR and Western blot. DHA significantly inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of ovarian cancer cells, and induced apoptosis in vitro. In contrast, DHA had few effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis in HOSEPICs. DHA inhibited the hedgehog signaling pathway. Furthermore, DHA inhibited purmorphamine (Hh signaling pathway agonist)‐induced cell proliferation, cell migration, and cell invasion and the inhibition of apoptosis. Importantly, DHA enhanced GANT61 (hedgehog signaling pathway inhibitor)‐induced apoptosis and the inhibition of cell viability, migratory capacity, and invasive ability. This study demonstrates that DHA inhibits cell viability, migration, and invasion, as well as induces apoptosis in epithelial ovarian cancer through suppression of the Hh signaling pathway.
Clothing style confidence: The development and validation of a multidimensional scale to explore product longevity
Authors: Joyner Armstrong Cosette M. , Kang Jiyun , Lang Chunmin
Published: October 2018

Personal style has been more frequently cited in the sustainable consumption discourse in recent years. The purpose of this research project is to conceptualize and operationalize clothing style confidence (CSC), defined as confidence about the individual way people express themselves with clothing and accessories. This study aims to advance a systematic understanding of the role of CSC in product longevity by developing a measurement scale through qualitative interviews, expert review, a survey to purify the scale, and a survey to validate a scale. The project began with 23 interviews among men and women who self‐identified as style confident, which aided in the development of 108 initial items. These items were reviewed by seven experts, resulting in the retention of 77 items. An online survey via a mass e‐mail facilitated through a large southwestern university's communication office yielded 141 responses for the purpose of scale purification, resulting in 26 items for the validation phase. An online survey was then conducted with a consumer panel purchased via Research Reward, yielding 451 usable surveys for scale validation. A measure of CSC that is both reliable and valid resulted, including 22 scale items across five distinct dimensions: style longevity, aesthetic perceptual ability, creativity, appearance importance, and authenticity. Analyses reveal a significant relationship between CSC and wardrobe engagement as well as wardrobe preservation, indicating that CSC is related to a more attentive and aware approach to clothing use that supports product longevity.
Interrogating PP1 Activity in the MAPK Pathway with Optimized PP1‐Disrupting Peptides
Authors: Wang Yansong , Hoermann Bernhard , Pavic Karolina , Trebacz Malgorzata , Rios Pablo , Köhn Maja
Published: October 2018

Protein phosphatase‐1 (PP1)‐disrupting peptides (PDPs) are selective chemical modulators of PP1 that liberate the active PP1 catalytic subunit from regulatory proteins; thus allowing the dephosphorylation of nearby substrates. We have optimized the original cell‐active PDP3 for enhanced stability, and obtained insights into the chemical requirements for stabilizing this 23‐mer peptide for cellular applications. The optimized PDP‐Nal was used to dissect the involvement of PP1 in the MAPK signaling cascade. Specifically, we have demonstrated that, in human osteosarcoma (U2OS) cells, phosphoMEK1/2 is a direct substrate of PP1, whereas dephosphorylation of phosphoERK1/2 is indirect and likely mediated through enhanced tyrosine phosphatase activity after PDP‐mediated PP1 activation. Thus, as liberators of PP1 activity, PDPs represent a valuable tool for identifying the substrates of PP1 and understanding its role in diverse signaling cascades.
An Engineered Alcohol Oxidase for the Oxidation of Primary Alcohols
Authors: Heath Rachel S. , Birmingham William R. , Thompson Matthew P. , Taglieber Andreas , Daviet Laurent , Turner Nicholas J.
Published: October 2018

Structure‐guided directed evolution of choline oxidase has been carried out by using the oxidation of hexan‐1‐ol to hexanal as the target reaction. A six‐amino‐acid variant was identified with a 20‐fold increased kcat compared to that of the wild‐type enzyme. This variant enabled the oxidation of 10 mm hexanol to hexanal in less than 24 h with 100 % conversion. Furthermore, this variant showed a marked increase in thermostability with a corresponding increase in Tm of 20 °C. Improved solvent tolerance was demonstrated with organic solvents including ethyl acetate, heptane and cyclohexane, thereby enabling improved conversions to the aldehyde by up to 30 % above conversion for the solvent‐free system. Despite the evolution of choline oxidase towards hexan‐1‐ol, this new variant also showed increased specific activities (by up to 100‐fold) for around 50 primary aliphatic, unsaturated, branched, cyclic, benzylic and halogenated alcohols.
A case of normotensive incidentally discovered adrenal pheochromocytoma
Authors: Ohara Nobumasa , Kaneko Masanori , Yaguchi Yuta , Ishiguro Hajime , Ishizaki Fumio , Maruyama Ryo , Suzuki Kazuya , Komeyama Takeshi , Usuda Hiroyuki , Yamazaki Yuto , Sasano Hironobu , Kaneko Kenzo , Kamoi Kyuzi
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine‐producing neuroendocrine tumors that arise from the adrenal medulla. The clinical presentation includes headache, palpitation, and hypertension, but pheochromocytomas are sometimes clinically silent. The present case highlights the importance of biochemical testing for pheochromocytoma in patients with adrenal incidentaloma, even if they are completely normotensive and asymptomatic.
A successful new method for single left lobe recruitment
Authors: Dybwik Knut , Nielsen Erik W.
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Any gas will flow down the path of least resistance and highest compliance. This is a problem in the treatment of severe unilateral lung disease in the intensive care unit (ICU). Deep sedation interferes with the diaphragm's ability to distribute air into the lower lung. Spontaneous breathing in a conscious patient, in combination with mechanical ventilation via an endotracheal tube inserted into the left main stem bronchus, can recruit collapsed alveoli.
Rosai‐Dorfman disease in Malawi
Authors: Kasonkanji Edwards , Seguin Ryan , Kaimila Bongani , Dhungel Bal M. , Painschab Matt , Tomoka Tamiwe , Gopal Satish
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Rosai‐Dorfman Disease (RDD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disease with limited cases reported in sub‐Saharan Africa, potentially due to a lack of pathological services throughout the region. RDD diagnosis can be difficult, especially in resource‐limited setting, as symptoms can be nearly identical to more common causes of lymphadenopathy.
Hydrophobia of human rabies
Authors: Tongavelona Juliana R. , Rakotoarivelo Rivo Andry , Andriamandimby Fy S.
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Hydrophobia is a clinical sign characteristic of human rabies. This sign occurs following paroxysmal contractions of pharynx responsible for hydrophobic spasms.
Cornual abscess rupture: A rare etiology of acute abdomen
Authors: Patil Pooja , Lua Lannah L. , Brar Bobby , Froehlich Mary , Planinic Petar
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Ruptured cornual abscess or pyometra can resemble other more common causes of acute abdomen, including appendicitis, diverticulitis, tubo‐ovarian abscess, and perforated viscus. Despite its rarity, the diagnosis of ruptured pyometra should always be considered in females presenting with acute abdominal pain, particularly in the setting of a retained intrauterine device.
Restructured Fe−Mn Alloys Encapsulated by N‐doped Carbon Nanotube Catalysts Derived from Bimetallic MOF for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Dong Zhun , Liu Guangli , Zhou Sicong , Zhang Yanyuan , Zhang Wanli , Fan Aixin , Zhang Xin , Dai Xiaoping
Published: October 2018

A set of novel catalysts FeMn/N‐CNTs that partly maintain the core‐shell structure have been prepared successfully by calcination of analogous MOF‐74, which has bimetallic species (Fe and Mn) and a cheap organic ligand (2, 5‐dihydroxylbenzoic acid, DHBA) with melamine as additional nitrogen source. These catalysts exhibit a distinctive microstructure of Fe−Mn alloys surrounded by N‐doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Electrochemical methods have been employed to investigate their activity in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline solution. The highest ORR performance of Fe3Mn1/N‐CNTs‐100 shows that the half wave potential is at 0.865 V and the kinetic current density (at 0.9 V) is 1.447 mA cm−2, which are higher than those of commercial Pt/C (0.855 V, 0.946 mA cm−2). In addition, Fe3Mn1/N‐CNTs‐100 is much more durable than commercial Pt/C under the conditions tested. The highly efficient ORR performance may be attributed to the unique microstructure and large surface area with appropriate pore size, as well as to the synergistic effects between the pyridinic N species and the Fe−Nx species that play important roles in ORR in alkaline solution. However, in acid medium, only Fe−Nx species catalyze ORR and pyridinic N species are limited to work as the active sites. This study may prompt others to explore the development of heteroatom‐doped CNTs surrounding particles as efficient catalyst for ORR and fuel cell applications.