bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Sensitivity and Durability of Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene)‐Based Polymeric Photodetectors Using Indium Tin Oxide Modified by Phosphonic Acid–Based Self‐Assembled Monolayer Treatment
Authors: KAJII HIROTAKE , SATO YUSUKE , MORIMUNE TAICHIRO , OHMORI YUTAKA
Published: June 2016

Organic photodetectors based on poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6,6]‐phenyl C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) blends with indium tin oxide (ITO) modified by phosphonic acid–based self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) treatment in a short time are investigated. The mixed SAMs serve to tune the surface free energy and the work function of ITO by varying the blend ratio. The phosphonic acid–based SAM treatment results not only in lowering of the injection barrier at the ITO/organic layer interface but also in the lowering of the contact resistance between ITO and the organic layer, as shown by impedance spectroscopy in P3HT hole‐only device with SAMs. P3HT:PCBM device with ITO modified by short treatment time of 1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorooctane‐phosphonic acid exhibits an incident‐photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency of above 50% at –2 V, a high on/off ratio, and improved durability.
Functional Design of Electrochemical Biosensors Using Polypyrrole
Authors: PREETHICHANDRA DALUWATHU MULLA GAMAGE , ONODA MITSUYOSHI
Published: June 2016

In order to improve biosensor performance, namely, the sensitivity, response time, and linear range values, novel amperometric polypyrrole (PPy) glucose biosensors, achieved by three different immobilizing techniques, namely, physical adsorption, coentrapment, and a two‐step method of coentrapment with superimposed physical adsorption, have been studied. Different enzyme loading and material properties resulted in varied immobilizing techniques, leading to dissimilarities in characteristics. In this study, Pt coated AnodiscsTM with 0.2 μm maximum pore size were used as electrodes to polymerize PPy at 0.3 mAcm−2 using a solution containing 0.05 mol/L pyrrole and 0.1 M NaPF6. The polymerization time was optimized to 90 s. In the coentrapment method, glucose oxidase (GOx) (1 mg/mL) was added to the monomer solution while an aliquot of GOx (5 μL) was placed on the prepolymerized electrode for physical adsorption. A combination of these two techniques was used as the last immobilization technique. The physical adsorption method gave a sensitivity of 3 mAcm−2 (mol/L)−1 and a linear range of 0.5 × 10−3 mol/L to 13 × 10−3 mol/L with a response time of 3 s. The sensitivity in the case of coentrapment was 3.75 mAcm−2 (mol/L)−1, while the value was 4.45 mAcm−2 (mol/L)−1 in two‐step immobilization, thus giving 25% and 48% increases, respectively. The response times of 9 s and 8 s in the latter cases reveal possible repercussion taking place in enzyme immobilization in a three‐dimensional (3D) PPy matrix and a delay in the time required for glucose to reach the enzyme. The linear range of the two‐step method was extended to 16 × 10−3 mol/L by reinforced enzyme loading.
Nonreversible MAIT cell‐dysfunction in chronic hepatitis C virus infection despite successful interferon‐free therapy
Authors: Hengst Julia , Strunz Benedikt , Deterding Katja , Ljunggren Hans‐Gustaf , Leeansyah Edwin , Manns Michael P. , Cornberg Markus , Sandberg Johan K. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Björkström Niklas K.
Published: June 2016

Immune exhaustion is a hallmark of chronic viral infections. However, pathogen eradication can result in reinvigorated immune responses. Indeed, this was recently suggested for antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells and NK cells in HCV‐infected patients receiving an interferon‐free treatment regimen. Mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are evolutionarily conserved innate‐like effector T cells. Here, we show that MAIT cells are severely diminished in frequency in chronic HCV‐infection, and in this regard the most affected immune cell type in peripheral blood of humans with this disease. Residual MAIT cells show an activated phenotype with high expression of granzyme B, HLA‐DR, PD‐1, and CD69 as well as altered transcription factor expression and suppressed responsiveness to MR1‐dependent antigen stimulation. In contrast to other immune cells, MAIT cells are not reinvigorated after successful HCV‐clearance using interferon‐free therapy. The present results hence demonstrate persistent immune cell‐dysfunction in humans despite successful elimination of a chronic pathogen.
A Rapid and Additive‐Free Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Reductive Amination of Aromatic Aldehydes
Authors: Kerner Christian , Straub Sascha‐Dominic , Sun Y. , Thiel Werner R.
Published: June 2016

The ruthenium complex [(η6‐cymene)Ru(Cl)(dpmpy)]+ {dpmpy = 2‐[2‐(dimethylamino)pyrimidin‐4‐yl]pyridine} is highly reactive in catalyzing the reductive amination of aromatic aldehydes through in situ generated imines with 2‐propanol as the hydrogen source following a transfer‐hydrogenation mechanism. This transformation does not require any activating additives and is applicable to a broad variety of aldehydes.
Thermostatted dual‐channel portable capillary electrophoresis instrument
Authors: Koenka Israel Joel , Küng Nina , Kubáň Pavel , Chwalek Thomas , Furrer Gerhard , Wehrli Bernhard , Müller Beat , Hauser Peter C.
Published: June 2016

A new portable CE instrument is presented. The instrument features the concurrent separation of anions and cations in parallel channels. Each channel has a separate buffer container to allow independent optimization of separation conditions. The microfluidics circuit is based on off‐the‐shelf parts, and can be easily replicated; only four valves are present in the design. The system employs a miniature automated syringe pump, which can apply both positive and negative pressures (‐100 to 800 kPa). The application of negative pressure allows a semi‐automatic mode of operation for introducing volume‐limited samples. The separations are performed in a thermostatted compartment for improved reproducibility in field conditions. The instrument has a compact design, with all components, save for batteries and power supplies, arranged in a briefcase with dimensions of 52 × 34 × 18 cm and a weight of less than 15 kg. The system runs automatically and is controlled by a purpose‐made graphical user interface on a connected computer. For demonstration, the system was successfully employed for the concurrent separation and analysis of inorganic cations and anions in sediment porewater samples from Lake Baldegg in Switzerland and of metal ions in a sample from the tailing pond of an abandoned mine in Argentina.
Characterization and high‐yield production of non‐N‐glycosylated recombinant human BCMA‐Fc in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Hou Weihua , Meng Xianchao , Wang Yuxiong , Mo Wei , Wu Yi , Yu Min
Published: June 2016

B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA) fused at the C‐terminus to the Fc portion of human IgG1 (BCMA‐Fc) blocks B‐cell activating factor (BAFF) and proliferation‐inducing ligand (APRIL)‐mediated B‐cell activation, leading to immune disorders. The fusion protein has been cloned and produced by several engineering cell lines. To reduce cost and enhance production, we attempted to express recombinant human BCMA‐Fc (rhBCMA‐Fc) in Pichia pastoris under the control of the AOX1 methanol‐inducible promoter. To produce the target protein with uniform molecular weight and reduced immunogenicity, we mutated two predicted N‐linked glycosylation sites. The secretory yield was improved by codon optimization of the target gene sequence. After fed‐batch fermentation under optimized conditions, the highest yield (207 mg/L) of rhBCMA‐Fc was obtained with high productivity (3.45 mg/L/h). The purified functional rhBCMA‐Fc possessed high‐binding affinity to APRIL and dose‐dependent inhibition of APRIL‐induced proliferative activity in vitro through three‐step purification. Thus, this yeast‐derived expression method could be a low‐cost and effective alternative to the production of rhBCMA‐Fc in mammalian cell lines.
Hydrodeoxygenation of Pyrolysis Oils
Authors: Routray Kamalakanta , Barnett Kevin J. , Huber George W.
Published: June 2016

The hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of bio‐oil derived from white oak wood using non‐sulfided catalysts was studied in a two zone continuous flow trickle bed reactor system. The major organic components of the pyrolysis oil were pyrolytic lignin (large phenolic polymers), xylose, levoglucosan, organic acids (primarily acetic acid), and hydroxyacetaldehyde. The first zone was a low temperature zone (130 °C) that contained a Ru/C catalyst. In this zone, carbonyl groups were hydrogenated, producing propylene glycol (from hydroxyacetone), ethylene glycol (from hydroxyacetaldehyde), and sorbitol (from levoglucosan). A more severe hydrotreatment was performed in a second zone containing a bifunctional Pt/ZrP catalyst at a temperature between 300 and 400 °C. In the two‐stage HDO, an organic phase was produced that consisted of a distribution of hydrocarbons that were primarily cyclic alkanes (naphthenes) ranging from C7 to C24. The organic phase carbon yield decreased with increasing reaction temperature in the second zone. Catalyst deactivation and reactor plugging by coking occurred under all reaction conditions after 55–72 h time on stream (TOS). After ≈55 h TOS, more than 25 % of the carbon in the original bio‐oil was accumulated as coke, with increasing amounts for higher temperatures in the second zone. Hydrotreatment gave rise to >C5 hydrocarbon (gasoline and distillate‐range fuel) overall yields between ≈30 and 47 carbon % for all experiments compared to the 79.5 % theoretical yield calculated for the bio‐oil feedstock. Coke formation and undesired cracking to C1–C4 hydrocarbon gases were the main causes of lower fuel carbon yields.
Micropollutants in European rivers: A mode of action survey to support the development of effect-based tools for water monitoring
Authors: Busch Wibke , Schmidt Susanne , Kühne Ralph , Schulze Tobias , Krauss Martin , Altenburger Rolf
Published: June 2016

Environmental quality monitoring of water resources is challenged with providing the basis for safeguarding the environment against adverse biological effects from exposure to anthropogenic chemicals originating from diffuse and point sources. Although current regulatory efforts focus on monitoring and assessing a few legacy chemicals, many more anthropogenic chemicals are and will become detected in aquatic resources as a result of progress in analytical techniques. Assessing this type of exposure information based on available standard approaches from prospective risk assessment for single chemicals inevitably leads to indication of risk in most surface water bodies. As an alternative to generic assessment approaches, effect-based monitoring approaches are suggested. This offers the advantage of reducing uncertainties of effect extrapolation and additionally accounts for mixture effects. To become a credible complement to chemical monitoring information, however, a better understanding of the capabilities and gaps of available effect-based tools is needed. The authors therefore undertook to 1) compile organic contaminants detected in freshwater monitoring studies, 2) provide a synopsis of the mode of action knowledge available for the detected compounds, 3) perform a hazard ranking to identify priority mixtures, and 4) reflect on the challenges to make bioassays fit for effect-based monitoring. The present Focus article shows that chemical occurrence in European freshwaters seems to be highly variable in composition and relative abundancies. Further, although the present mode of action knowledge remains limited, the authors already see the need for batteries of effect-based tools if a more comprehensive coverage of prevailing effect qualities for mixtures is to be targeted. Finally, they suggest a list of organic compounds that could serve as a reference list for effect-based tool validation studies. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1887–1899. © 2016 SETAC
Rise and Fall of an Egyptian Oasis: Artesian Flow, Irrigation Soils, and Historical Agricultural Development in El‐Deir, Kharga Depression, Western Desert of Egypt
Authors: Bravard Jean‐Paul , Mostafa Ashraf , Garcier Romain , Tallet Gaëlle , Ballet Pascale , Chevalier Yael , Tronchère Hervé
Published: June 2016

The present study examines the geoarchaeological history of an oasis in Kharga Depression in central Egypt. El‐Deir is renowned for its Ptolemaic temple and Roman fortress on the road from former Hibis (Kharga) to the Nile Valley. During the survey, spring mounds and irrigation soils belonging to an ancient agricultural zone were discovered, and further documented by ceramics found on the site. Our methodology combines the geomorphological interpretation of landforms (especially yardangs) with ceramics and 14C‐dated charcoal to distinguish and date former agricultural areas in El‐Deir. The results show that the oasis experienced several phases of soil accretion and destruction through time. Playa sediments were deposited in the humid early Holocene and severely eroded by deflation before the onset of irrigated agriculture between Pharaonic and Persian times. Very fast vertical soil accretion occurred in the Ptolemaic period, but irrigation soils were later destroyed during the Roman period by a combination of wind deflation and flash floods (second to fourth century A.D.), suggesting a period of climate instability. The case of El‐Deir invites reevaluation of constructive agencies for the development of irrigated land and destructive agencies as limiting factors for the sustainability of agricultural practices in late antiquity.
The Nature and Origins of Linear Features in the Bajo de Azúcar, Guatemala: Implications for Ancient Maya Adaptation to a Changing Environment
Authors: Dunning Nicholas P. , Griffin Robert E. , Sever Thomas L. , Saturno William A. , Jones John G.
Published: June 2016

Scholars have long puzzled over the ancient human use of swampy depressions (bajos) in the interior part of the Maya Lowlands. Part of this debate has centered on the reputed, but undocumented, existence of canals in the bajos of the northeastern Peten District of Guatemala. We report on the use of satellite imagery along with fieldwork to reveal numerous linear features in the Bajo de Azúcar, the largest bajo in the northeast Peten. We conducted ground‐truthing and excavation at three linear features in two separate trips into the bajo. We also calculated sinuosity of channel segments using IKONOS and QuickBird satellite images. Our investigations indicate that the linear features are partly natural in origin, but some segments were either modified or are solely the product of human activity. We surmise that the canals most likely functioned principally to facilitate transportation across the bajo, though other uses are also possible, including drainage, water storage, and aquaculture. These uses were likely devised as responses to environmental change, population growth, and associated rising economic demands.
Perceived burdensomeness is associated with low‐lethality suicide attempts, dysfunctional interpersonal style, and younger rather than older age
Authors: Vanyukov Polina M. , Szanto Katalin , Hallquist Michael , Moitra Modhurima , Dombrovski Alexandre Y.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Perceived burdensomeness is thought to contribute to suicide risk. However, suicidal behavior is clinically and psychologically heterogeneous. Does a high level of perceived burdensomeness differentiate medically serious suicidal acts, most closely resembling death by suicide, from less serious ones? How is perceived burdensomeness related to dysfunctional personality dimensions implicated in suicide? We sought to answer these questions in a cross‐sectional, case–control study of adults, aged 42 years or older (n = 165).

Methods

Participants were suicidal depressed with history of high‐lethality and low‐lethality attempts, depressed with serious suicidal ideation, depressed non‐suicidal, and psychiatrically healthy controls. Following detailed clinical characterization, we assessed perceived burdensomeness, the Big Five, impulsivity, and anger rumination.

Results

Low‐lethality attempters reported the highest levels of perceived burdensomeness, followed by ideators, high‐lethality attempters, non‐suicidal depressed, and healthy controls. Group differences were robust to confounders, including demographics, severity of depression, and physical illness burden. In suicide attempters, perceived burdensomeness scaled positively with neuroticism, impulsivity, and anger and negatively with extraversion, conscientiousness, and age.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that perceived burdensomeness is most prominent in a subgroup of younger individuals with lower‐lethality suicide attempts and a dysfunctional interpersonal style. Older adults with high‐lethality attempts are surprisingly more resilient to the feelings of burdensomeness. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dominating Sets in Projective Planes
Authors: Héger Tamás , Nagy Zoltán Lóránt
Published: June 2016

We describe small dominating sets of the incidence graphs of finite projective planes by establishing a stability result that shows that dominating sets are strongly related to blocking and covering sets. Our main result states that if a dominating set in a projective plane of order is smaller than (i.e., twice the size of a Baer subplane), then it contains either all but possibly one points of a line or all but possibly one lines through a point. Furthermore, we completely characterize dominating sets of size at most . In Desarguesian planes, we could rely on strong stability results on blocking sets to show that if a dominating set is sufficiently smaller than 3q, then it consists of the union of a blocking set and a covering set apart from a few points and lines.
The kinetic of key phytochemical compounds of non‐heading and heading leafy Brassica oleracea landraces as affected by traditional cooking methods
Authors: Giambanelli Elisa , Verkerk Ruud , D'Antuono L Filippo , Oliviero Teresa
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Kales are often a key ingredient of traditional foods, containing high amounts of indolic glucosinolates (precursors of indole‐3‐carbinol and ascorbigen), carotenoids and phenolics. The present trend to associate traditional foods crops with health‐promoting properties suggested to investigate the degradation kinetic of three Brassica oleracea landraces' phytochemicals subjected to boiling, steaming and stir‐frying.

RESULTS

Boiling led to substantial losses due to leaching. Glucosinolates followed a second‐order degradation kinetic (20% of their initial values after 10 min in Nero di Toscana). Phenolic content in leaves + cooking water remained unchanged, whereas their antioxidant capacity was reduced. Carotenoid content increased during the first minutes of boiling. Steaming showed the highest retention of phytochemicals, with often zero‐order degradation kinetic, having however a strong effect on colour. Stir‐frying produced high losses for all measured compounds; also, β‐carotene reduced its content to 10–23% independently of variety. Conversion values for indole‐derived compounds ranged from non‐detectable to 23.5%.

CONCLUSION

Variety strongly affected observed degradation rates because of a different glucosinolate composition and leaf structure. With this research, more information has been gained on the degradation kinetic of B. oleracea landraces' phytochemical compounds upon cooking, highlighting the possibility of improving bioactive component retention. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Viable bacterial population and persistence of foodborne pathogens on the pear carpoplane
Authors: Duvenage Francois J , Duvenage Stacey , Du Plessis Erika M , Volschenk Quinton , Korsten Lise
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Knowledge on the culturable bacteria and foodborne pathogen presence on pears is important for understanding the impact of postharvest practices on food safety assurance. Pear fruit bacteria were investigated from the point of harvest, following chlorine drenching and after controlled atmosphere (CA) storage to assess the impact on natural bacterial populations and potential foodborne pathogens.

RESULTS

Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were detected on freshly harvested fruit in season one. During season one, chemical drenching and CA storage did not have a significant effect on the bacterial load of orchard pears, except for two farms where the populations were lower ‘after CA storage’. During season two, bacterial populations of orchard pears from three of the four farms increased significantly following drenching; however, the bacterial load decreased ‘after CA storage’. Bacteria isolated following enumeration included Enterobacteriaceae, Microbacteriaceae, Pseudomonadaceae and Bacillaceae, with richness decreasing ‘after drench’ and ‘after CA storage’.

CONCLUSION

Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes were not detected after postharvest practices. Postharvest practices resulted in decreased bacterial species richness. Understanding how postharvest practices have an impact on the viable bacterial populations of pear fruit will contribute to the development of crop‐specific management systems for food safety assurance. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Core–shell SiO2‐coated Fe3O4 with a surface molecularly imprinted polymer coating of folic acid and its applicable magnetic solid‐phase extraction prior to determination of folates in tomatoes
Authors: Areerob Yonrapach , Sricharoen Phitchan , Limchoowong Nunticha , Chanthai Saksit
Published: June 2016

A novel core–shell magnetic surface molecularly imprinted polymer with folic acid as a template was successfully synthesized by the sol–gel method. To generate Lewis acid sites in the silica matrix for the interaction of the metal coordinate with the template, 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane was used as a functional monomer, tetraethyl orthosilicate as a cross‐linker, and aluminum ions as a dopant. The magnetite encapsulated by the silica shell plays an important role as a magnetic‐coated polymer. The synthesized product was characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and FTIR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. The powder X‐ray diffraction patterns, FTIR and UV/Vis spectra confirmed the characteristics of the as‐prepared silica coated magnetite and folic acid molecularly imprinted polymer. It was successfully applied for magnetic solid‐phase extraction prior to the determination of folates in tomato samples using high‐performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection. The detection limit of the proposed method was 1.67 μg/L, and results were satisfactory, with a relative standard deviation of < 3.94%.
Developing Knowledge Convergence through a Boundaries Vision—A Case Study of Fujifilm in Japan
Authors: Kodama Mitsuru , Shibata Tomoatsu
Published: June 2016

In recent years, there has been a growing need for strategies that provide for convergence in the development of products and services and building of business models that integrate different technologies and services and span different industries. The question is: What kind of strategies and organizations should a company construct for R&D activities to develop new products, services, and business models that will be realized through the integration of different technologies and convergence across industries? The key concept in a company's actions for adapting to (or creating) a worldview of such convergence lies in knowledge convergence through a boundaries vision, which this paper discusses.

The paper presents a case study that analyzes in detail the R&D framework of Fujifilm as a company that achieved success in new business areas by realizing knowledge convergence through a boundaries vision. In the days of analogue photographs, Fujifilm stood alongside Kodak of the USA as a leading brand in the photo industry. Foreseeing the steady decline of the analogue business, however, it moved into other business sectors such as pharmaceuticals, health care, and cosmetics as a new departure that it refers to as the “second foundation” and, in so doing, achieved spectacular success.

The main objective in its R&D strategy for the second foundation was to “create new value.” To do this, Fujifilm sets its sights on achieving what it described as “intellectual fusion” (by combining and integrating different fields and technologies) and “innovation” (by creating new, differentiated technologies) and, as a result, to contribute to society. We will now analyze the mechanism of knowledge convergence through boundaries vision in Fujifilm's R&D and new business strategy for supporting its second foundation, which was a key factor in its successful business transformation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Otolaryngology in the medical school curriculum: Current trends in the United States
Authors: Boscoe Elizabeth F. , Cabrera‐Muffly Cristina
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify trends in medical school otolaryngology curriculum requirements.

Study Design

Survey of United States allopathic medical schools.

Methods

A survey was sent to deans of curriculum at allopathic medical schools. We identified opportunities for medical students to learn basic concepts in otolaryngology during their undergraduate medical training. The opportunities were classified into preclinical and clinical as well as elective and mandatory rotations.

Results

Of the schools surveyed, 60% responded. Mean class size was 149 students. Sixty‐eight percent of surveyed schools noted that 75% to 100% of their students participated in preclinical otolaryngology experiences, with 59% reporting a mandatory preclinical otolaryngology module for all students. Eighty‐nine percent of schools offered otolaryngology as a clinical elective rotation, with a mean of 12 students participating yearly. Only 7% of schools required a mandatory otolaryngology clinical rotation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that medical students do not receive sufficient exposure to otolaryngology during medical school. Increased requirements for otolaryngology curriculum may be beneficial to all medical students, regardless of their specialty choice.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 00:000–000, 2016 127:346–348, 2017
Increased expression of hCLCA1 in chronic rhinosinusitis and its contribution to produce MUC5AC
Authors: Kim Ha Kyun , Kook Jin Ho , Kang Ka Ram , Oh Dong Ju , Kim Tae Hoon , Lee Sang Hag
Published: June 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Mucus hypersecretion is a hallmarks of chronic rhinosinusitis. The expression of MUC5AC, a major respiratory mucin gene, is increased in chronic rhinosinusitis. The mechanisms inducing mucus hypersecretion have not been fully evaluated in chronic rhinosinusitis. Human Ca2+‐activated Cl‐ channel 1 (hCLCA1) is implicated in the regulation of mucus production, airway fluid, and electrolyte transport. The present study objectives was to investigate the expression of hCLCA1 in chronic rhinosinusitis and evaluate whether its level is altered by stimulation with type 1 T helper (Th1) and Th2 cytokines, and to determine the possible role of hCLCA1 on the regulation of mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) production.

Study Design

Controlled prospective study.

Methods

The expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC in normal and inflammatory ethmoid mucosa was determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. In cultured cells, the expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC was measured after stimulation with Th1 and Th2 cytokines. In a supernatant, the MUC5AC level was analyzed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay after treatment with niflumic acid.

Results

The levels of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC were increased in chronic rhinosinusitis, irrespective of nasal polyp presence, where they were distributed in superficial epithelial cells and submucosal glands. In cultured cells treated with interleukin (IL)‐9, IL‐4, IL‐13, tumor necrosis factor‐α, transforming growth factor‐β, interferon‐γ, and IL‐1β, the expression of hCLCA1 and MUC5AC was increased. In cells treated with niflumic acid, the production of MUC5AC was inhibited.

Conclusions

The current findings indicate that the expression of hCLCA1 is increased in chronic rhinosinusitis and may be regulated by Th1 and Th2 cytokines, possibly contributing to the production of MUC5AC.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:E347–E355, 2016
Water Sorption and Diffusion in (Reduced) Graphene Oxide‐Alginate Biopolymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Vilcinskas Karolis , Zlopasa Jure , Jansen Kaspar M. B. , Mulder Fokko M. , Picken Stephen J. , Koper Ger J. M.
Published: June 2016

The water sorption and diffusion in (reduced) graphene oxide‐alginate composites of various compositions is analyzed. Water sorption of sodium alginate can be significantly reduced by the inclusion of graphene oxide sheets due to the formation of an extensive hydrogen bonding network between oxygenated groups. Crosslinking alginate with divalent metal ions and the presence of reduced graphene oxide can further improve the swelling resistance due to the strong interactions between metal ions, alginate, and filler sheets. Depending on conditions and composition, the overall water barrier properties of alginate composites improve upon (reduced) graphene oxide filling, making them attractive for moisture barrier coating applications. Water sorption kinetics in all alginate composites indicate a non‐Fickian diffusion process that can be accurately described by the Variable Surface Concentration model. In addition, the water barrier properties of sodium alginate‐graphene oxide composites can be adequately predicted using a simple model that takes the orientational order of filler sheets and their effective aspect ratio into account.

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Highly Efficient and Facile Photocatalytic Recycling System Suitable for ICAR ATRP of Hydrophilic Monomers
Authors: Jiang Xiaowu , Zhang Lifen , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: June 2016

Photoinduced initiators for continuous activator regeneration atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of hydrophilic monomers in heptane/ethanol latent‐biphasic system for copper catalyst separation and recycling have been realized for the first time at room temperature with different wavelengths of visible light LED (green, blue, purple, and white LED) as external stimulus, using 2‐bromophenylacetate as the ATRP initiator and camphorquinone/triethylamine as the photoinitiator. In this system, hybrid catalyst complex (HCc) is synthesized as a novel nonpolar catalyst, which is preferentially dissolved in heptane. The hydrophilic polymers obtained catalyzed by HCc in heptane/ethanol mixture solvent show typical “living” features, for example, the values of Mn,GPC increase linearly with monomer conversion up to quantitative level (>96%) and the molecular weight distributions were kept narrow (Mw/Mn < 1.20) throughout the polymerization process. It should be noted that the excellent controllability of this novel polymerization system can be achieved even after 5 catalyst recycling experiments under LED irradiation.

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Isolation of Bdellovibrio sp. from soil samples in Mexico and their potential applications in control of pathogens
Authors: Oyedara Omotayo Opemipo , De Luna‐Santillana Erick de Jesus , Olguin‐Rodriguez Omar , Guo Xianwu , Mendoza‐Villa Marco Antonio , Menchaca‐Arredondo Jorge Luis , Elufisan Temidayo Oluyomi , Garza‐Hernandez Javier Alfonso , Garcia Leon Israel , Rodriguez‐Perez Mario Alberto
Published: June 2016

In this study, two strains of Bdellovibrio were isolated from soil samples using the culture‐dependent technique and two members of the family Enterobacteriaceae (Klebsiella sp. and Salmonella sp.) as prey. The Bdellovibrio strains were bacteriolytic, plaque‐forming, and highly motile gram‐negative bacteria. We identified and confirmed the Bdellovibrio strains using microscopy, PCR amplification, and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. They were observed to be different strains based on hit locus and prey range analyses. Here, the first report on Bdellovibrio strains isolated from soil in Mexico corroborates earlier report indicating that populations of Bdellovibrio found in soil are heterogeneous thereby the need to identify the various strains.
Human whole blood 1H2O transverse relaxation with gadolinium‐based contrast reagents: Magnetic susceptibility and transmembrane water exchange
Authors: Wilson Gregory J. , Springer Charles S. , Bastawrous Sarah , Maki Jeffrey H.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To characterize transverse relaxation in oxygenated whole blood with extracellular gadolinium‐based contrast reagents by experiment and simulation.

Methods

Experimental measurements of transverse 1H2O relaxation from oxygenated whole human blood and plasma were made at 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla. Spin‐echo refocused and free‐induction decays are reported for blood and plasma samples containing four different contrast reagents (gadobenate, gadoteridol, gadofosveset, and gadobutrol), each present at concentrations ranging from 1 to 18 mM (i.e., mmol (contrast reagent (CR))/L (blood)). Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to ascertain the molecular mechanisms underlying relaxation. These consisted of random walks of water molecules in a large ensemble of randomly oriented erythrocytes. Bulk magnetic susceptibility (BMS) differences between the extra‐ and intracellular compartments were taken into account. All key parameters for these simulations were taken from independent published measurements: they include no adjustable variables.

Results

Transverse relaxation is much more rapid in whole blood than in plasma, and the large majority of this dephasing is reversible by spin echo. Agreement between the experimental data and simulated results is remarkably good.

Conclusion

Extracellular field inhomogeneities alone make very small contributions, whereas the orientation‐dependent BMS intracellular resonance frequencies lead to the majority of transverse dephasing. Equilibrium exchange of water molecules between the intra‐ and extracellular compartments plays a significant role in transverse dephasing. Magn Reson Med 77:2015–2027, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Therapeutic Review of Methylprednisolone Acetate Intra‐Articular Injection in the Management of Osteoarthritis of the Knee – Part 1: Clinical Effectiveness
Authors: McCrum Carol
Published: June 2016

Intra‐articular (IA) corticosteroid injections are a common approach in the management of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The effectiveness of injections and particular injection products is often discussed and debated in clinical arenas. The following therapeutic review examines the evidence for intra‐articular methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) injections in the management of OA knee. A review of research evidence, published guidelines and clinical literature was undertaken following an electronic database and relevant literature search. The review found that there is limited evidence which indicates that a single dose intra‐articular MPA injection can provide short to medium term benefits for pain, with less evidence for beneficial effects on function or stiffness. There is heterogeneity across studies and until recently, most studies had only short to medium term follow‐up periods, thus limiting the evidence available on longer term benefit. There was also evidence indicating equivalent overall efficacy of MPA to that of other corticosteroid products. Most guideline recommendations concerning IA injections for OA knee have drawn on evidence from pooled data for several corticosteroid products. The review also found there was limited reporting of the incidence of adverse events in most studies. Overall, MPA shows efficacy for symptom relief in OA knee. At an individual management level, evidence for a limited duration of effect needs consideration in injections decisions. Furthermore, consensus across clinical guidelines suggests that the management of OA knee should be individualized to a person's clinical history, degree of disability, risk factors, quality of life and personal preferences, whereby injecting involves a shared decision and forms part of a multimodal approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
High‐resolution ultrasound in combat‐related peripheral nerve injuries
Authors: Smith Jonathan K. , Miller Matthew E. , Carroll Craig G. , Faillace Walter J. , Nesti Leon J. , Cawley Christina M. , Landau Mark E.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) sustained in combat are typically severe and are frequently associated with marked soft tissue damage, anatomic distortion, and retained metallic fragments. These features complicate clinical and electrodiagnostic assessment and may preclude MRI. Methods: We describe 4 cases of military personnel who sustained high‐velocity gunshot wounds or blasts with metal fragment injuries in which high resolution peripheral nerve ultrasound (US) proved beneficial. Results: In these cases, the clinical and electrodiagnostic exams provided inadequate localization and severity data of the nerve injuries, and MRI was either precluded or provided no additional information. In each case, US disclosed focal nerve segment abnormalities, including regions of focal enlargement and nerve discontinuity with end‐bulb neuroma, which guided surgical planning for nerve repair. The findings on US were subsequently confirmed intra‐operatively. Conclusions: High resolution peripheral nerve US is a useful modality in assessment of combat‐related PNI. Muscle Nerve, 2016 Muscle Nerve 54: 1139–1144, 2016
Total versus partial splenectomy in pediatric hereditary spherocytosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guizzetti Leonardo
Published: June 2016

To compare the clinical effectiveness of total splenectomy (TS) or partial splenectomy (PS) in pediatric hereditary spherocytosis, a systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed (PROSPERO registration CRD42015030056). There were 14 observational studies comparing pre‐ and postoperative hematologic parameters. Secondary outcomes include in‐hospital infections, surgical complications, symptomatic recurrence, and biliary disease. TS is more effective than PS to increase hemoglobin (3.6 g/dl vs. 2.2 g/dl) and reduce reticulocytes (12.5% vs. 6.5%) after 1 year; outcomes following PS are stable for at least 6 years. There were no cases of overwhelming postsplenectomy sepsis. A population‐based patient registry is needed for long‐term follow‐up.
Can sugarcoated fingerprints be used to identify lurking viruses?
Authors: Hu Tony Y.
Published: June 2016

Comparative proteomics is increasingly used to detect biomarkers and therapeutic targets that differ between healthy and diseased populations; however, differences in posttranslational modifications have received less attention. In this issue, Yang et al. (Proteomics 2016, 16, 1872–1880) present data indicating that a glycoproteomics approach can detect N‐glycosylated membrane protein differences between non‐HIV‐infected and latently infected human CD4+ T‐cell lines, identifying 172 proteins differentially expressed by these cells. Latently infected CD4+ T cells are thought to represent the major barrier to eventual HIV cure, but do not express detectable levels of viral protein and have not been shown to express biomarkers that can distinguish them from the vastly more abundant uninfected CD4+ T‐cell population. The findings of Yang et al. suggest that glycoproteomic analyses may have untapped potential to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cell populations not readily distinguishable be standard proteomic analyses.
Organic–inorganic poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) copolymers with double‐decker silsesquioxane in the main chains: Synthesis, glass transition, and self‐assembly behavior
Authors: Liu Ning , Zheng Sixun
Published: June 2016

An organic–inorganic copolymer with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and xanthate moieties in the main chain was synthesized via the polycondensation between 3,13‐di(2‐bromopropionate)propyl double‐decker silsesquioxane (DDSQ) and 1,4‐di(xanthate potassium)butane. This hybrid copolymer was used as the macromolecular chain transfer agent to obtain the organic–inorganic poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) (PVPy) copolymers via a reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer/macromolecular design via the interchange of xanthates (RAFT/MADIX) polymerization approach; the polymerization behavior of N‐vinyl pyrrolidone was investigated by means of gel permeation chromatography. It was found that the polymerization was in a living and controlled manner. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that the organic–inorganic PVPy copolymers with DDSQ in the main chains were microphase‐separated in bulks. Compared to plain PVPy, the organic–inorganic PVPy copolymers displayed the decreased glass transition temperatures (Tgs); the decreased Tgs are attributable to the effect of the introduced DDSQ cages on the packing of PVPy chains as evidenced by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In water, the organic–inorganic PVPy copolymers can self‐assemble into the spherical nano‐objects with the size of 20–50 nm in diameter. In the self‐assembled nano‐objects, the aggregates of the hydrophobic DDSQ constituted the cores of the polymeric micelles whereas the PVPy chains between the DDSQ behaved as the coronas of the polymeric micelles. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2949–2961
A simple approach for a spatial terrestrial exposure assessment of the insecticide fenoxycarb, based on a high‐resolution landscape analysis
Authors: Thomas Kai , Resseler Herbert , Spatz Robert , Hendley Paul , Sweeney Paul , Urban Martin , Kubiak Roland
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

The objective was to refine the standard regulatory exposure scenario used in plant protection product authorisations by developing a more realistic landscape‐related GIS‐based exposure assessment for terrestrial non‐target arthropods. We quantified the proportion of adjacent off‐target area in agricultural landscapes potentially exposed to insecticide drift from applications of the active substance fenoxycarb. High‐resolution imagery, landscape classification and subsequent stepwise analysis of a whole landscape using drift and interception functions were applied to selected areas in representative fruit‐producing regions in Germany.

RESULTS

Even under worst‐case assumptions regarding treated area, use rate and drift, less than 12% of the non‐agricultural habitat area would potentially be exposed to fenoxycarb drift above regulatory acceptable concentrations. Additionally, if the filtering effect of tall vegetation were taken into account, this number would decrease to 6.6%. Further refinements to landscape elements and application conditions indicate that less than 5% of the habitat area might be exposed above regulatory acceptable concentrations, meaning that 95% of the non‐agricultural habitat area will be unimpacted (i.e. no unacceptable effects) and can serve as refuge for recolonisation.

CONCLUSION

Approaches and tools are proposed for standardisable and transparent refinements in regulatory risk assessments on the landscape level. © 2016 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Thermal Evaporation of Sb2Se3 as Novel Counter Electrode for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Panpan , Wu Zhixin , Ai Changzhi , Zhang Ming , Zhang Xintong , Huang Niu , Sun Yihua , Sun Xiaohua
Published: June 2016

Sb2Se3 was fabricated with a facile atmospheric pressure thermal evaporation procedure as counter electrode (CE) for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The introduction of a carbon nanoparticle (CNP) film as substrate was proved to facilitate Sb2Se3 deposition, resulting in the formation of a Sb2Se3 layer on the surface of carbon nanoparticles (denoted as CNP‐Sb2Se3). Electrochemical characterizations demonstrate the intrinsic catalytic ability of Sb2Se3 and better electrocatalytic activity and stability of Sb2Se3 deposited on CNP film in catalyzing I3‐ reduction. Evaporation temperature was found to affect the electrocatalytic activity of CNP‐Sb2Se3 and a lower temperature of 400oC was proved to be better in our case. As a result, the best performing DSSC with CNP‐Sb2Se3 CE yields a power conversion efficiency of 6.26%, which is comparable to that based on Pt CE (6.47%).
Synthesis of Substituted Pyrazole N‐Oxide and Pyrazole from Propargyl Amine
Authors: Unnava Ramanjaneyulu , Saikia Anil K.
Published: June 2016

Propargyl amine can be efficiently converted to pyrazole N‐oxide from the reaction of sodium nitrite in acetic acid catalysed by AgOTf in excellent yields. The pyrazole N‐oxides can be converted into pyrazole by treatment of phosphorous trichloride in refluxing chloroform. The pyrazole N‐oxide could be converted to highly substituted 4‐chloropyrazole by treating DMF and POCl3. On the other hand, some substituted pyrazole can be converted to pyrazolo[4,3‐c]cinnoline and pyrazolo[4,3‐c]quinoline.
Education's Complexity in the Context of Human Development
Authors: Cifuentes Myriam Patricia , Fernandez Soledad A.
Published: June 2016

Claiming to be a complex approach, the updated worldwide Sustainable Development Goals agreement broadens its educational scope and acknowledges the integrated and indivisible character of human development through diverse dimensions. Complex systems research provides ways to improve our understanding of the complexity of education and to explore how education fits within the context of human development. To account for ‘effect‐based’ research on education complexity, using the American Community Survey data, we developed a model by inferring a probabilistic network structure of diverse aspects of human development dimensions including education. We explored the model by network analysis methods to discover the intrinsic relationships among education variables and the extrinsic relationships of education with other dimensions of human development in the USA. The results confirmed the well‐known rationale of the relationship between education and wealth, and expanded the understanding of complexity of education as it is part of the life course (timing of individual development) and of the cultural construction of identity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.