bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Ir(tpy)(bpy)Cl] as a Photocatalyst for CO2 Reduction under Visible‐Light Irradiation
Authors: Sato Shunsuke , Morikawa Takeshi
Published: September 2017

Mononuclear iridium(III) terpyridine (tpy) 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) [Ir(tpy)(bpy)Cl]2+ photocatalysts (denoted [Ir(bpy)]) were developed for selective CO2 reduction to HCOOH under visible light. The CO2 reduction product could be changed dramatically by substituting a 2‐phenylpyridine (ppy) ligand with bpy, with the mononuclear Ir ppy complex ([Ir(tpy)(ppy)Cl]+) acting as a photocatalyst for selective CO2 reduction to CO. A mechanistic study showed a structural change in [Ir(bpy)] during the photocatalytic reaction. The [Ir(bpy)] complex was transformed into an iridium–hydride complex ([Ir(tpy)(bpy)H]2+) during an early stage of the photocatalytic reaction. However, [Ir(tpy)(bpy)H]2+ did not function as a key intermediate in the photochemical CO2 reduction because an additional structural change occurred. The tpy ligand of the Ir complex was reduced to piperidine‐2,6‐di‐2‐pyridine ligand during the photocatalytic reaction, resulting in the production of [Ir(piperidine‐2,6‐di‐2‐pyridine)(bpy)H]2+, which was the actual photocatalyst for HCOOH production.
Optimal Metal Oxide Deposition Conditions and Properties for the Enhancement of Hydrogen Evolution over Particulate La5Ti2Cu1−xAgxS5O7 Photocathodes
Authors: Liu Jingyuan , Hisatomi Takashi , Katayama Masao , Minegishi Tsutomu , Domen Kazunari
Published: September 2017

This work examined the effects of the thickness and annealing conditions of TiO2, Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 layers deposited by radio‐frequency reactive magnetron sputtering over La5Ti2Cu1−xAgxS5O7 (LTC1−xAx) photocathodes on photoelectrochemical (PEC) H2 evolution performance. Annealing of the oxide‐deposited LTC1−xAx photocathodes in ambient air enhances PEC H2 evolution, whereas annealing in an inert or reductive atmosphere does not. Annealing in ambient air converts the as‐deposited oxygen‐deficient conductive oxides into semiconducting oxides that function as hole‐blocking layers. The photocathodic current associated with PEC H2 evolution was enhanced to the greatest extent when oxide layers 2 nm in nominal thickness were annealed in air at 473 K. This study determined the key metal oxide properties essential to enhancing PEC H2 evolution over particulate LTC1−xAx photocathodes, and is expected to assist in the development of particulate photoelectrodes for solar H2 production.
Salivary MMP‐13 gender differences in periodontitis: A cross‐sectional study from Sweden
Authors: Virtanen Eunice , Yakob Maha , Tervahartiala Taina , Söder Per‐Östen , Andersson Leif C. , Sorsa Timo , Meurman Jukka H. , Söder Birgitta
Published: September 2017

We investigated serum and saliva concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases, MMP‐8, MMP‐9, and MMP‐13, and their tissue inhibitor TIMP‐1, in a group of patients with and without periodontitis from Sweden. The hypothesis was that these biomarkers are higher in the periodontitis patients. Ninety patients participated in this cross‐sectional study. Fifty‐one patients had periodontitis whereas 39 were periodontally healthy. Saliva and serum samples were analyzed with immunofluorometric, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and western blot. Results were statistically analyzed with independent t test, Mann–Whitney U test, Bonferroni corrections, and regression analyses. MMP‐13 was not detected in serum, but in saliva, higher values were found among the periodontally healthy compared with periodontitis subjects (0.32 ± 0.26 vs. 0.21 ± 0.23 ng/ml, p < .05). Female gender and clinical attachment loss were the explanatory factors for higher salivary MMP‐13 values with odds ratio 3.08 (95% confidence interval [1.17, 8.11]) and 3.57 (95% confidence interval [1.08, 11.82]), respectively. No statistically significant differences between groups were found in serum and saliva values of MMP‐8, MMP‐9, and TIMP‐1. Contrary to our hypothesis, no statistically significant differences between patients with and without periodontitis were seen in MMP‐8, MMP‐9, and TIMP‐1 values. However, higher MMP‐13 concentrations in saliva were associated with female gender and higher clinical attachment loss. Metabolism of MMP‐13 may thus have some gender implications in periodontitis.
Help students get and keep work‐study jobs
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: September 2017

One challenge students with disabilities face that doesn't often get discussed is finding (and keeping) work‐study jobs, which are often part of their financial aid package. Jessica Szivos, M.A., C.R.C., assistant director of the Office of Disability Services at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, says she doesn't typically ask about work study, but it occasionally comes up when students check in with her.
Lead change more effectively by identifying core values, teaching staff how to innovate
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2017

Higher education professionals know the challenge of leading change. But they also know that it's a challenge worth facing and easier to overcome when they can follow the guidance of another professional who has found innovative strategies for successfully bringing about change.
Hox D genes and thefin‐to‐limbtransition: Insights from fish studies
Authors: Paço Ana , Freitas Renata
Published: September 2017

Genes in the 5′ extremity of theHoxDcluster encode DNA‐binding transcription factors essential for development of the autopod and digits, regulating primarily gene expression and, consequently, morphogenesis and skeletal differentiation. Comparative studies focused on their expression and regulation have led to the idea that evolution of a bimodal regulation of the HoxD cluster, mainly due to the activation ofcis‐regulatory units in the centromeric side of the cluster, was a fundamental mechanism that potentiated thefin‐to‐limbtransition in vertebrates. In addition, functional assays demonstrated that increased levels of 5′HoxD genes stimulate the production of additional endochondral bone, while repressing the formation of dermal skeleton distally. Other data have come to light in recent years suggesting that these genes may interfere directly with the production of dermal skeleton components in fish and with the activity ofcis‐regulatory units involved in the formation of autopod and digits. Finally, increasing evidences suggest that the role of HoxD genes in fin evolution may relate to their ability to change the fate of distal mesenchymal cells conducting them to differentiate into endochondral bone rather than in dermal skeleton. Here, we trace the history of the research concerning the involvement of HoxD genes in the fin‐to‐limb transition in vertebrates. To this end, we discuss three interconnected topics that have benefited from profound advances in recent years due to comparative analyses and functional assays performed using fish species: (a) comparative HoxD genes expression; (b) comparative HoxD gene transcriptional regulation; and (c) functional characterization of 5′HoxD genes.
The interaction between predation risk and food ration on behavior and morphology of Eurasian perch
Authors: Svanbäck Richard , Zha Yinghua , Brönmark Christer , Johansson Frank
Published: September 2017

The risk of both predation and food level has been shown to affect phenotypic development of organisms. However, these two factors also influence animal behavior that in turn may influence phenotypic development. Hence, it might be difficult to disentangle the behavioral effect from the predator or resource‐level effects. This is because the presence of predators and high resource levels usually results in a lower activity, which in turn affects energy expenditure that is used for development and growth. It is therefore necessary to study how behavior interacts with changes in body shape with regard to resource density and predators. Here, we use the classic predator‐induced morphological defense in fish to study the interaction between predator cues, resource availability, and behavioral activity with the aim to determine their relative contribution to changes in body shape. We show that all three variables, the presence of a predator, food level, and activity, both additively and interactively, affected the body shape of perch. In general, the presence of predators, lower swimming activity, and higher food levels induced a deep body shape, with predation and behavior having similar effect and food treatment the smallest effect. The shape changes seemed to be mediated by changes in growth rate as body condition showed a similar effect as shape with regard to food‐level and predator treatments. Our results suggests that shape changes in animals to one environmental factor, for example, predation risk, can be context dependent, and depend on food levels or behavioral responses. Theoretical and empirical studies should further explore how this context dependence affects fitness components such as resource gain and mortality and their implications for population dynamics.
Thermal and Mechanochemical Syntheses of Luminescent Mononuclear Copper(I) Complexes
Authors: Liang Panyi , Kobayashi Atsushi , Hasegawa Tatsuya , Yoshida Masaki , Kato Masako
Published: September 2017

Mononuclear CuI iodide complexes, [CuI(PPh3)2L] {PPh3 = triphenylphosphine; L = 4‐aminoisoquinoline (4‐aiq) (2), 5‐aminoisoquinoline (5‐aiq) (3), and 5‐nitroisoquinoline (niq) (4)}, were prepared by three different methods: normally used reactions in the solution state, mechanochemical synthesis, and newly developed solvent‐free thermal synthesis. Although no solvent was required for the mechanochemical synthesis of the parent complex [CuI(PPh3)2(iq)] (1; iq = isoquinoline), a minimal amount of assisting solvent (PhCN) was required for the mechanochemical syntheses of the three functionalized isoquinoline complexes. The amino‐functionalized isoquinoline complexes were successfully synthesized by heating the ground mixture of three types of starting materials at ca. 100 °C, where the PPh3 ligand melted to promote complex formation by acting as the ligand and the solvent. The emission properties strongly depend on the L ligand: Complexes 2 and 3 showed vibronic emission spectra originating from the 3ππ* excited state localized on the L ligand, whereas complex 4 did not show any emission in the visible region.
Luminescent Carrageenan Hydrogels Containing Lanthanopolyoxometalates
Authors: Fateixa Sara , Carvalho Rui S. , Daniel‐da‐Silva Ana L. , Nogueira Helena I. S. , Trindade Tito
Published: September 2017

In this research, we investigated the use of lanthanopolyoxometalates {LnPOM, K9[Ln(W5O18)2], Ln = Eu, Tb} as luminophores in thermosensitive polysaccharides such as carrageenan hydrogels. We demonstrate that the LnPOM species still show the characteristic photoluminescence bands of the LnIII ion when incorporated in the gel matrix. Moreover, the strength of the carrageenan hydrogels increases by increasing the amount of LnPOM added because of the effect of K+ ions as cross‐linkers, but without compromising the photoluminescent behaviour. Nanoscale homogeneity is crucial regarding applications of hydrogels responsive to external stimuli. This research shows that the final LnPOM‐loaded hydrogels are homogeneous as a consequence of the diffusion behaviour of the luminophore species within the gel network. Therefore, we anticipate that the association of carrageenan hydrogels to luminescent lanthanopolyoxometalates might be of great relevance for optical devices and in particular for bioimaging techniques.
Photophysical, Cellular‐Uptake, and Bioimaging Studies of Luminescent Ruthenium(II)–Polypyridine Complexes Containing a d‐Fructose Pendant
Authors: Lau Chris Tsan‐Shing , Chan Christina , Zhang Kenneth Yin , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Lo Kenneth Kam‐Wing
Published: September 2017

Two luminescent ruthenium(II)–polypyridine complexes, appended with a d‐fructose unit, [Ru(N^N)2(bpy‐fructose)](PF6)2 [bpy‐fructose = 4‐(1‐deoxy‐d‐fructos‐1‐yl)aminocarbonyl‐4′‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine; N^N = 4,7‐diphenyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline (Ph2‐phen) (1a) and 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) (2a)] and their d‐fructose‐free counterparts [Ru(N^N)2(bpy‐Et)](PF6)2 [bpy‐Et = 4‐(ethylaminocarbonyl)‐4′‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine; N^N = Ph2‐phen (1b) and bpy (2b)] are synthesized and characterized. The photophysical properties, lipophilicity, cytotoxicity, and cellular uptake of the complexes are studied. Laser‐scanning confocal microscopy reveals that both complexes 1a and 1b display intense membrane staining toward human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF‐7) cells. However, while complex 1a retains its membrane‐staining characteristic when incubated with human cervical epithelioid carcinoma (HeLa) cells, complex 1b is localized in the mitochondria. Additionally, fructose‐dependent cellular‐uptake experiments suggest that complex 1a is transported into MCF‐7 cells through a glucose transporter (GLUT) mediated pathway.
Embedment of Well Dispersed Nickel Nanoparticles in Sulfonate and Benzimidazole Functionalized Poly (Arylene Ether Ketone) Film for the Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Glucose
Authors: Xi Lingling , Wang Tengfei , Zhang Danwei
Published: September 2017

Stable and well dispersed nickel nanoparticles (NiNPs) were fabricated and embedded in a novel polymer sulfonate and benzimidazole functionalized poly (arylene ether ketone) (S‐BI‐PAEK) film. After drop‐casting the mixed solution of S‐BI‐PAEK and NiSO4 on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface, the uniformly distributed NiNPs were formed and stably embedded in S‐BI‐PAEK film by in‐situ electrochemical reduction method. The embedment and well dispersity of NiNPs in S‐BI‐PAEK film was probably attributed to the strong chelation of sulfonate and benzimidazole functional groups contained in S‐BI‐PAEK toward Ni2+ ions, as well as the transferability of Ni2+ ions in S‐BI‐PAEK film. The NiNPs/S‐BI‐PAEK composite film was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). It exhibited good electrocatalytic activity toward glucose oxidation in 0.1 mol L−1 NaOH solution with high stability. The NiNPs/S‐BI‐PAEK/GCE showed a fast amperometric response with a wide linear range from 1 μM to 4 mM and a low detection limit of 200 nmol L−1 (S/N=3) for the determination of glucose by amperometry at a potential of 0.55 V. Finally it was successfully employed to determine glucose in human serum. Therefore, the novel fabrication method of nickel nanoparticles was promising for the future development of non‐enzymatic glucose sensor.
Degradation of Rhodamine B at neutral pH using modified sponge iron as a heterogeneous electro‐Fenton catalyst
Authors: Tian Jiangnan , Sharshar Moustafa Mohamed , Yang Maohua , Mu Tingzhen , Xing Jianmin
Published: September 2017

Sponge iron was used as heterogeneous electro‐Fenton (EF) catalyst. Then, the catalytic activity and durability of sponge iron was greatly improved after modified by polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray, X‐ray diffraction spectrometry, and vibrating sample magnetometer were carried out to further understand the surface morphology, element composition, substance composition, and magnetic property, respectively. The PTFE modified sponge iron exhibited excellent mineralization performance for treatment of 20 mg/L Rhodamine B solution under the optimized conditions (catalyst dosage 0.5 g/L, current density 50 A/m2), achieving almost complete decolorization, 90.13% total organic carbon removal, and 93.24% Chemical Oxygen Demand removal after 120 min electrolysis. Moreover, the results confirmed that the modified sponge iron showed satisfactory durability after five times consecutive cycles, and could be a promising heterogeneous EF catalyst. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 989–995, 2018
Direct multiperiod forecasting for algorithmic trading
Authors: Kawakatsu Hiroyuki
Published: September 2017

This paper examines the performance of iterated and direct forecasts for the number of shares traded in high‐frequency intraday data. Constructing direct forecasts in the context of formulating volume weighted average price trading strategies requires the generation of a sequence of multistep‐ahead forecasts. I discuss nonlinear transformations to ensure nonnegative forecasts and lag length selection for generating a sequence of direct forecasts. In contrast to the literature based on low‐frequency macroeconomic data, I find that direct multiperiod forecasts can outperform iterated forecasts when the conditioning information set is dynamically updated in real time.
Beijing Now Plays Major Role in European Gas Prices
Authors: Willett Robert E.
Published: September 2017

Today, coal prices set the floor for natural gas prices in Europe. Much of Europe's energy imports come from imported Chinese coal, and statistical analysis of recent moves shows that China is able to manipulate that market. A look at Exhibit 1 shows that the price of European coal is very closely correlated to the price of Chinese coal.
Regulating Utility Efficiency “Fast and Slow”: The Current Australian Problem
Authors: Makholm Jeff D.
Published: September 2017

In 2002, Daniel Kahneman—a psychologist—won the 2002 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences. Why a psychologist? Because he demonstrated that what economists thought they understood about the ability of people to choose between baskets of goods and services—one of the basic foundations of neoclassical microeconomics—just was not always true. Consumers simply are not always rational or decisive in their choices in the way that economic theory assumed. In 2011, Kahneman wrote a best‐selling book, Thinking Fast and Slow, which contrasted “fast” instinctive and emotional thought from the more logical and deliberative “slow” decision‐making.
The modeling of archaeological and geomorphic surfaces in a multistratified urban site in Padua, Italy
Authors: Mozzi Paolo , Ferrarese Francesco , Zangrando Dorelia , Gamba Mariolina , Vigoni Alberto , Sainati Camilla , Fontana Alessandro , Ninfo Andrea , Piovan Silvia , Rossato Sandro , Veronese Francesca
Published: September 2017

Multistratified archaeological sites are important archives of past human activities, recording the superposition of anthropogenic deposits over centuries and millennia. We attempted the reconstruction of buried geomorphic and archaeological surfaces in the 1.55 km2, 7 m thick, multistratified urban site of Padua in northern Italy, through the spatial interpolation of 117 elevation points relative to unique archaeological features. Key data were the elevations above sea level of ancient surfaces and features, such as the presettlement alluvial plain, roads, floors, and hearths dating from Bronze to Imperial Roman ages. Present surface elevations were provided by a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) digital elevation model. Spline interpolation produced general‐trend surfaces of the buried alluvial plain, Iron Age (13th–10th and 6th centuries B.C.), and Roman (first century B.C. and first to second centuries A.D.) levels. Validation of the later Roman surface indicates a decimeter accuracy of interpolation. Geographic information system overlay operations resulted in quantitative estimates of the vertical growth of the site, the volumes of archaeological deposits, and the depth of burial of the different levels. This research provided new insights on the development of the ancient city and its relations with paleohydrography, representing a starting point for the assessment of buried archaeological heritage.
Zircon U–Pb age, geochemistry and Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopes of the Baolige granite complex in the Great Hingan Range, NE China
Authors: Zhu Xue‐Feng , Chen Yan‐Jing , Wang Pin , Wang Shou‐Xu , Zhang Cheng
Published: September 2017

The Solonker zone is widely accepted as the suture between the North China Craton and the Siberia–Mongolia continental plate. The Baolige granite complex is located to the north side of the Solonker Suture and is mainly composed of monzogranite and granite. Zircon U–Pb ages, geochemistry, and Sr‐Nd‐Hf isotopic data of the Baolige granites were presented to constrain their petrogenesis and tectonic settings. Two monzogranite samples from Baolige yielded weighted mean zircon 206Pb/238U ages of 310.7 ± 2.1 Ma (mean square of weighted deviates (MSWD) = 1.3) and 307.4 ± 1.6 Ma (MSWD = 0.77), whereas the granite intruded into the monzogranite yielded an age of 296.2 ± 2.0 Ma (MSWD = 1.2). Both the Baolige monzogranite and granite contain high contents of SiO2, K2O, and Al2O3, low contents of TiO2, MgO, and CaO, and are peraluminous high‐K calc‐alkaline. These rocks are characterized by enrichments of K, Rb, U, Pb, Th, and light rare earth elements and depletions of Nb, Ta, Ti, and heavy rare earth elements and contain slightly negative or no Eu anomalies, similar to typical arc‐related granitoids. The Ti‐in‐zircon thermometry yielded 650–759 °C for the monzogranite and 645–796 °C for the granite. The monzogranite shows positive zircon εHf(t) values (4.7–13.2) and whole‐rock εNd(t) values (3.6–5.2), with TDM2(Hf) ages of 1,324–557 Ma and TDM2(Nd) ages of 1,015–821 Ma, and ISr of 0.70363–0.70386. The granite shows εHf(t) values of 15.6–20.9 and εNd(t) values of 4.0–5.1, with TDM2(Nd) ages of 957–832 Ma, and ISr of 0.70364–0.70406. Geochemical evidence indicates that the Baolige granite complex is highly fractionated I‐type and was likely formed by partial melting of the Neoproterozoic juvenile crust in a continental arc setting. We concluded that the Paleo‐Asian Ocean may have undergone north‐dipping subduction beneath the Siberia–Mongolia continental plate during the Late Carboniferous, and the subduction may have continued to the Early Permian (ca. 296 Ma).
Connectivity‐based parcellation of the anterior limb of the internal capsule
Authors: Nanda Pranav , Banks Garrett P. , Pathak Yagna J. , Sheth Sameer A.
Published: September 2017

The anterior limb of the internal capsule (ALIC) is an important locus of frontal‐subcortical fiber tracts involved in cognitive and limbic feedback loops. However, the structural organization of its component fiber tracts remains unclear. Therefore, although the ALIC is a promising target for various neurosurgical procedures for psychiatric disorders, more precise understanding of its organization is required to optimize target localization. Using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) collected on healthy subjects by the Human Connectome Project (HCP), we generated parcellations of the ALIC by dividing it according to structural connectivity to various frontal regions. We then compared individuals’ parcellations to evaluate the ALIC's structural consistency. All 40 included subjects demonstrated a posterior–superior to anterior–inferior axis of tract organization in the ALIC. Nonetheless, subdivisions of the ALIC were found to vary substantially, as voxels in the average parcellation were accurately assigned for a mean of only 66.2% of subjects. There were, however, some loci of consistency, most notably in the region maximally connected to orbitofrontal cortex. These findings clarify the highly variable organization of the ALIC and may represent a tool for patient‐specific targeting of neuromodulation. Hum Brain Mapp 38:6107–6117, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Induction of cancer cell stemness by depletion of macrohistone H2A1 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lo Re Oriana , Fusilli Caterina , Rappa Francesca , Van Haele Matthias , Douet Julien , Pindjakova Jana , Rocha Sura Wanessa , Pata Illar , Valčíková Barbora , Uldrijan Stjepan , Yeung Raymond S. , Peixoto Christina Alves , Roskams Tania , Buschbeck Marcus , Mazza Tommaso , Vinciguerra Manlio
Published: September 2017

Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) contain a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which exhibit stem cell–like features and are responsible for tumor relapse, metastasis, and chemoresistance. The development of effective treatments for HCC will depend on a molecular‐level understanding of the specific pathways driving CSC emergence and stemness. MacroH2A1 is a variant of the histone H2A and an epigenetic regulator of stem‐cell function, where it promotes differentiation and, conversely, acts as a barrier to somatic‐cell reprogramming. Here, we focused on the role played by the histone variant macroH2A1 as a potential epigenetic factor promoting CSC differentiation. In human HCC sections we uncovered a significant correlation between low frequencies of macroH2A1 staining and advanced, aggressive HCC subtypes with poorly differentiated tumor phenotypes. Using HCC cell lines, we found that short hairpin RNA–mediated macroH2A1 knockdown induces acquisition of CSC‐like features, including the growth of significantly larger and less differentiated tumors when injected into nude mice. MacroH2A1‐depleted HCC cells also exhibited reduced proliferation, resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, and stem‐like metabolic changes consistent with enhanced hypoxic responses and increased glycolysis. The loss of macroH2A1 increased expression of a panel of stemness‐associated genes and drove hyperactivation of the nuclear factor kappa B p65 pathway. Blocking phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B p65 on Ser536 inhibited the emergence of CSC‐like features in HCC cells knocked down for macroH2A1. Conclusion: The absence of histone variant macroH2A1 confers a CSC‐like phenotype to HCC cells in vitro and in vivo that depends on Ser536 phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B p65; this pathway may hold valuable targets for the development of CSC‐focused treatments for HCC. (Hepatology 2018;67:636‐650).
Copper Promoted Oxidative Coupling of SnAP Hydrazines and Aldehydes to Form Chiral 1,4,5‐Oxadiazepanes and 1,2,5‐Triazepanes
Authors: Luescher Michael U. , Songsichan Teerawat , Hsieh Sheng‐Ying , Bode Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2017

SnAP (Sn (tin) amine protocol) hydrazine reagents and aldehydes undergo oxidative, copper mediated coupling to form substituted 1,4,5‐oxadiazepanes and 1,2,5‐triazepanes. Unlike all prior reactions involving SnAP reagents, the SnAP hydrazine reagents undergo a molecular oxygen‐assisted oxidative cyclization. The air‐ and moisture tolerant transformation accommodates a broad range of groups including electron‐rich, electron‐poor aromatic, heteroaromatic, and aliphatic aldehydes and is amenable to gram scale synthesis. These unusual, chiral heterocycles have unexpectedly large optical rotations, which may find use in optical materials.
Facial emotion recognition in schizophrenia: An exploratory study on the role of comorbid alcohol and substance use disorders and COMT Val158Met
Authors: Carrà Giuseppe , Nicolini Gabriella , Lax Annamaria , Bartoli Francesco , Castellano Filippo , Chiorazzi Alessia , Gamba Giulia , Bava Mattia , Crocamo Cristina , Papagno Costanza
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To explore whether facial emotion recognition (FER), impaired in both schizophrenia and alcohol and substance use disorders (AUDs/SUDs), is additionally compromised among comorbid subjects, also considering the role of catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study, randomly recruiting 67 subjects with a DSM‐IV‐TR diagnosis of schizophrenia, and rigorously assessing AUDs/SUDs and COMT Val158Met polymorphism. FER was assessed using the Ekman 60 Faces Test‐ EK‐60F.

Results

As a whole, the sample scored significantly lower than normative data on EK‐60F. However, subjects with comorbid AUDs/SUDs did not perform worse on EK‐60F than those without, who had a better performance on EK‐60F if they carried the COMT Val/Met variant.

Conclusions

This study is the first to date examining the impact of AUDs/SUDs and COMT variants on FER in an epidemiologically representative sample of subjects with schizophrenia. Our findings do not suggest an additional impairment from comorbid AUDs/SUDs on FER among subjects with schizophrenia, whilst COMT Val158Met, though based on a limited sample, might have a role just among those without AUDs/SUDs. Based on our results, additional research is needed also exploring differential roles of various substances.
Synergistic effect of l‐ascorbic acid and hyaluronic acid on the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and −9 in human chondrocytes
Authors: Huang Teng‐Le , Yang Che‐Hua , Yanai Goichi , Liao Jo‐Yu , Sumi Shoichiro , Yang Kai‐Chiang
Published: September 2017

Proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are known to be involved in the initiation and progression of osteoarthritis (OA). New evidence clarifying the correlation between ROS and inflammation has indicated that oxidative stress can up‐regulate inflammatory cytokines. l‐Ascorbic acid (AA), an antioxidant, has been shown to have anti‐inflammatory effects and improve matrix deposition in chondrocytes. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of hyaluronic acid (HA; 100 μg/mL) supplemented with AA (50 μg/mL) on human normal and interleukin‐1 beta‐stimulated (IL‐1β, 10 ng/mL) chondrocytes. HA, AA, and HA + AA treatment did not change cell morphology, viability, proliferation, and glycosaminoglycan production in normal chondrocytes. HA, AA, and HA + AA, by contrast, partially restored viability and morphology of hypertrophic chondrocytes, and HA and HA + AA further decreased the cytotoxicity of IL‐1β. Real‐time PCR revealed that AA and HA + AA had no substantial effects on unstimulated chondrocytes, except for down‐regulation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 mRNA levels. For IL‐1β‐stimulated chondrocytes, significant down‐regulation of IL‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), MMP‐3, and MMP‐9 mRNA expression was found when cells were cultured in HA‐supplemented media. Moreover, HA + AA supplementation further significantly decreased MMP‐3 and MMP‐9 mRNA expression. The protein production of MMP‐3 was decreased, with a significant difference between the HA + AA group and HA group. The antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutases activity were also partially restored in stimulated chondrocytes. HA supplemented with AA modulates MMPs expression and antioxidant fuction in chondrocytes. AA may enhance the anticatabolic effects of HA on OA chondrocytes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1809–1817, 2018.
An effective thermal therapy against cancer using an E‐jet 3D‐printing method to prepare implantable magnetocaloric mats
Authors: Yang Yikun , Tong Chunyi , Zhong Juchang , Huang Ruiying , Tan Weihong , Tan Zhikai
Published: September 2017

Magnetic hyperthermia has been rapidly developed as a potential cancer treatment in recent years. Artificially induced hyperthermia close to a tumor can raise the temperature to 45°C causing tumor cell death. Herein, we introduce a novel method for rapid preparation of anti‐cancer magnetocaloric PCL/Fe3O4 mats capable of high‐performance hyperthermia using E‐jet 3D printing technology. Our 3D printed mats not only maintained the heating efficiency of traditional techniques for magnetic hyperthermia but also prolonged the effective therapy in vivo. When Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were used in mats at a concentration of 6 mmol/L, 0.07 g PCL/Fe3O4 mats were able to increase the temperature peripherally to 45°C under an alternating magnetic field (AMF) within 45 min. Moreover, the reproducibility experiment indicated that the maximum temperature was achieved following repeated heating and cooling cycles. Cell toxicity tests showed a high cell death rate during one treatment cycle. In vivo experiments indicated clear signs of tumor growth inhibitory and prolonged survival time of tumor‐bearing mice after 4 weeks of treatment. The present magnetic mats may be a potential candidate for a novel heat‐generating substrate for localized hyperthermia cancer therapy. Furthermore, the main advantage of such implantable magnetic mats is the local and precise delivery of Fe3O4 NPs, ideal for the hyperthermia treatment of easily accessible tumors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1827–1841, 2018.
Self‐Stigma of Mental Illness and Help Seeking Among School Counselors
Authors: Mullen Patrick R. , Crowe Allison
Published: September 2017

The authors reported the findings from a correlational investigation examining the relationship between school counselors' (N = 333) self‐stigma of mental illness, help‐seeking behaviors, burnout, stress, and life satisfaction. The authors used a path analysis to test a hypothesized causal framework that self‐stigma of mental illness contributed to help‐seeking behaviors, which contributed to stress and burnout. The findings showed that the data fit the hypothesized model. The authors discuss the implications of the findings.
A case of suspected MPO‐ANCA‐related hypertrophic pachymeningitis with atypical presentation
Authors: Koura Tomoyuki , Kita Keiichiro , Konishi Hirofumi
Published: September 2017

A 66‐year‐old man presented to our emergency department with acute consciousness disorder, headache, and fever. Initial laboratory data indicated a high level of inflammatory reaction. Enhanced magnetic resonance imaging revealed a thickening of the right cranial dura mater on T1‐weighted images. We presumed the patient was diagnosed as having myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO‐ANCA)‐related hypertrophic pachymeningitis (HP). Acute impaired consciousness without focal signs is an unusual presentation of HP. This treatable disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis when a patient presents with drowsiness and headache.
Synthesis, Characterization, Solvatochromic Properties, and Antimicrobial‐radical Scavenging Activities of New Diazo Dyes Derived from Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine
Authors: Şener Nesrin , Erişkin Selinay , Yavuz Serkan , Şener İzzet
Published: September 2017

5‐Amino‐3‐methyl‐4‐phenylazo‐1H‐pyrazole and ethyl cyanoacetate reacted in solvent‐free media at 150°C to produce 7‐amino‐3‐phenylazo‐2‐methyl‐4H‐pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine‐5‐one (3). A series of aromatic amines was coupled using this compound (3) and nitrous acid to produce new pyrazolo[1,5‐a] pyrimidine derivatives with two arylazo groups 4(a‐m). The structures of these dyes were determined via UV–vis, Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, high‐resolution mass spectral data, and elemental analysis. After synthesis, the solvent and acid–base effects of the dyes were investigated within the UV–vis region. The antimicrobial properties of the dyes were also studied. All dyes exhibited activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, and even against fungi. The results were compared to conventional reference results from the antibiotics ciprofloxacin and ketoconazole. Antioxidant potentials were analyzed using in vitro antioxidant models on the basis of DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activities. Most of the compounds exhibited excellent antioxidant activities. In particular, compound 4b had a higher activity than Vitamin C.
In vitro characterisation of solid drug nanoparticle compositions of efavirenz in a brain endothelium cell line
Authors: Curley Paul , Giardiello Marco , Liptrott Neill J. , Dickens David , Moss Darren M. , Hobson James J. , Savage Alison C. , McDonald Tom O. , Siccardi Marco , Rannard Steve , Owen Andrew
Published: September 2017

The antiretroviral drug efavirenz displays many desirable pharmacokinetic properties such as a long half‐life enabling once daily dosing but suffers from central nervous system safety issues. Various nanotechnologies have been explored to mitigate some of the limitations with efavirenz. While there has been progress in increasing the bioavailability, there has been no attempt to assess the impact of increased exposure to efavirenz on central nervous system safety. The uptake of aqueous and solid drug nanoparticle (SDN) formulations of efavirenz was assessed in the human cerebral microvessel endothelial cells/D3 brain endothelial cell line. The mechanisms of uptake were probed using a panel of transport and endocytosis inhibitors. The cellular accumulation of an efavirenz aqueous solution was significantly reduced by amantadine, but this was not observed with SDNs. The uptake of efavirenz SDNs was reduced by dynasore, but concentrations of the efavirenz aqueous solution were not affected. These data indicate that efavirenz is a substrate for transporters in brain endothelial cells (amantadine is an inhibitor of organic cation transporters 1 and 2), and formation of SDNs may bypass this interaction in favour of a mechanism involving dynamin‐mediated endocytosis.
Gross brain morphology of the armoured catfish Rineloricaria heteroptera, Isbrücker and Nijssen (1976), (Siluriformes: Loricariidae: Loricariinae): A descriptive and quantitative approach
Authors: Angulo Arturo , Langeani Francisco
Published: September 2017

The gross morphology of the brain of Rineloricaria heteroptera and its relation to the sensory/behavioural ecology of the species is described and discussed. The sexual and ontogenetic intraspecific variation in the whole brain length and mass, as well as within/between the eight different brain subdivisions volumes, is also examined and discussed. Negative allometry for the whole brain length/mass and relative growth of the telencephalon and optic tecta was observed. Positive allometry was observed for the relative growth of the olfactory bulbs and medulla oblongata. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses did not reveal significant differences in the brain subdivision growth rates among sexes and/or developmental stages, except for the optic tectum and some portions of the medulla oblongata, with juveniles and males showing more developed optic tecta and medullary subdivisions, respectively. The growth rates for each brain subdivision were relatively constant, and the slopes of the growth equations were almost parallel, except for those of the olfactory bulbs and medulla oblongata subdivisions, suggesting some degree of tachyauxesis of subdivisions against the entire brain. The corpus cerebelli was the more voluminous brain subdivision in most specimens (principally adults), followed by the optic tectum (the more voluminous subdivision in juveniles), hypothalamus, and telencephalon, in that order. Differences in the number of lamellae and relative size of the olfactory organ were also detected among developmental stages, which were more numerous and larger in adults. Based on these results, it is possible to infer an ontogenetic shift in the habitat/resource use and behaviour of R. heteroptera. Vision, primarily routed through the optic tectum, could be fundamental in early stages, whereas in adults, olfaction and taste, primarily routed through the olfactory bulbs and medulla oblongata, play more important roles.
Structure of supporting elements in the dorsal fin of percid fishes
Authors: Weickhardt Alexander F. , Feilich Kara L. , Lauder George V.
Published: September 2017

The dorsal fin is one of the most varied swimming structures in Acanthomorpha, the spiny‐finned fishes. This fin can be present as a single contiguous structure supported by bony spines and soft lepidotrichia, or it may be divided into an anterior, spiny dorsal fin and a posterior, soft dorsal fin. The freshwater fish family Percidae exhibits especially great variation in dorsal fin spacing, including fishes with separated fins of varying gap length and fishes with contiguous fins. We hypothesized that fishes with separated dorsal fins, especially those with large gaps between fins, would have stiffened fin elements at the leading edge of the soft dorsal fin to resist hydrodynamic loading during locomotion. For 10 percid species, we measured the spacing between dorsal fins and calculated the second moment of area of selected spines and lepidotrichia from museum specimens. There was no significant relationship between the spacing between dorsal fins and the second moment of area of the leading edge of the soft dorsal fin.
Seroepidemiology of hepatitis E virus infection in pigs in Durango State, Mexico
Authors: Alvarado‐Esquivel Cosme , Sánchez‐Anguiano Luis F. , Hernández‐Tinoco Jesús , Alvarado‐Félix Ángel O.
Published: September 2017

No information about hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in pigs in the northern Mexican state of Durango exists. We determined the seroprevalence and correlates of anti‐HEV IgG antibodies in pigs in Durango, Mexico. Through a cross‐sectional study, we studied 427 pigs raised in backyards (n = 328), or slaughtered (n = 99) in Durango. Sera of pigs were analyzed for anti‐HEV IgG antibodies using a commercially available enzyme‐linked immunoassay. Antibodies to HEV were found in 193 (45.2%) of the 427 pigs studied. A significantly higher seroprevalence was observed in slaughtered pigs (79.8%) than in backyard pigs (34.8%). Bivariate analysis showed that HEV seropositivity was associated with age, sex, breed, climate, altitude, mean annual temperature, mean annual rainfall, and farm raising. Logistic regression analysis showed that HEV seropositivity was associated with the origin (Sonora State) of pigs (OR=6.51; 95%CI: 3.74‐11.32; P < 0.001), and mean annual rainfall (≤600 mm) (OR=1.78; 95%CI: 1.01‐3.15; P = 0.04). A high seroprevalence of HEV infection in pigs slaughtered for human consumption in Durango City was found. This is the first report of an association between HEV seropositivity in pigs and climatic factors. Infection factors found may help for the optimal planning of preventive measures against HEV infection.
Raman spectroscopy as a novel method in placental research: Recognizing the pattern of placental hypoxia
Authors: Schlabritz‐Loutsevitch Natalia , Gandhi Kushal , Soydemir Fatimah , Brownbill Paul , Sengar Raghvendra , Ventolini Gary , Bruillard Paul , Gosink Luke
Published: September 2017

Raman spectroscopy (RS) is a nonelastic photon scattering technique. We evaluated whether a specific RS pattern exists in fetal venous perfusates obtained at 30‐ to 60‐min intervals from the ex vivo human dual placental perfusion model under hypoxic (n = 6) and normoxic (n = 5) conditions. A stratified principle component and a linear support vector machine analyses showed that the separation between 2 conditions was readily feasible at 60–120 min of perfusion; after this, any apparent differences were most likely the result of artifact overfitting. This report is the first attempt to identify the RS fingerprint associated with placental hypoxia.
Aligned diphenylalanine nanotube–silver nanoparticle templates for high‐sensitivity surface‐enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Almohammed Sawsan , Fedele Stefano , Rodriguez Brian J. , Rice James H.
Published: September 2017

Self‐assembly offers potential routes for large‐scale, rapid, and cost‐effective surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate designs. Here, a highly sensitive SERS template is reported, which utilizes aligned diphenylalanine nanotubes to form a dense packing arrangement of plasmon‐active silver nanoparticles. The template is stable under high laser illumination with a power density of ~6.25 MW/cm2 in comparison to only silver nanoparticles and enables picomolar and femtomolar probe molecule concentrations to be probed, indicative of single‐molecule SERS detection.
Changes in composition and content of food‐derived peptide in human blood after daily ingestion of collagen hydrolysate for 4 weeks
Authors: Shigemura Yasutaka , Suzuki Asahi , Kurokawa Mihoko , Sato Yoshio , Sato Kenji
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Daily ingestion of collagen hydrolysate for a long period improves skin and joint conditions. It has been speculated that the beneficial effects are exerted by food‐derived hydroxyproline (Hyp) peptides, which are detected in human blood after single ingestions. In the present study, to investigate the effect of long‐term ingestion of collagen hydrolysate on Hyp peptides profile in blood, the concentrations of Hyp‐peptides in human blood before and after daily ingestion for a long period were examined.

RESULTS

Hyp‐peptides increased to a maximum level at 1 h after ingestion and reverted to their initial levels within 24 h during experimental period. Pro‐Gly and Hyp‐peptides such as Pro‐Hyp‐Gly, Pro‐Hyp, Ile‐Hyp, Leu‐Hyp, Hyp‐Gly, Glu‐Hyp and Ala‐Hyp were identified in the blood after ingestion of collagen hydrolysate at 4.5 g day−1 for 4 weeks. For the whole period, Pro‐Hyp was the leading compound. The compositional rate of Hyp‐Gly showed a tendency to increase, while that of Pro‐Hyp tended to decrease after daily ingestion.

CONCLUSION

The present results indicate that daily ingestion of collagen hydrolysate for a long period can change compositional rate of Hyp peptides in human blood. This fact suggests that long‐term ingestion of collagen hydrolysate might change exo‐ or endo‐type protease activity in the digestive tract, which may consequently promote beneficial effects. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Ecosystem carbon sequestration through restoration of degraded lands in Northeast India
Authors: Brahma Biplab , Pathak Karabi , Lal Rattan , Kurmi Bandana , Das Milon , Nath Panna Chandra , Nath Arun Jyoti , Das Ashesh Kumar
Published: September 2017

This study evaluated the ecosystem carbon (C) stock and sequestration potential for predominant land uses converted from forest in Northeast India to advance the scientific knowledge and minimize the anthropogenic C emissions from land use change (LUC). Field assessments were conducted on 6 predominant land uses including (a) natural forest (NF), (b) degraded forest (DF), (c) rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) plantation (RP), (d) Areca (Areca catechu) plantation (ArP), (e) pan (Piper betle)jhum (slash and mulching) agroforestry (PB), and (f)Imperatagrassland (IG) of Northeast India to assess changes in ecosystem C stock with progressive and retrogressive LUC. Ecosystem C stock was the highest for NF (300.5 Mg ha−1) and the lowest under IG (110.4 Mg ha−1). The ecosystem C stock under PB and IG was 11% and 63%, respectively, lower than that under NF. In comparison with DF, the gain in ecosystem C was in the order PB (125%) > RP (99%) > ArP (4%). The ratio of soil organic carbon to ecosystem C stock was ~50% for NF, PB, and RP and that shifted to ~80% for ArP/DF/IG. The LUC and management of DF through PB and RP indicated the ecosystem C sequestration rate of 5 and 4 Mg ha−1 year−1, respectively. Similarly, the ecosystem C sequestration rate was 0.5 and 4 Mg ha−1 year−1, respectively, when IG was converted into ArP and RP. Therefore, restoration of degraded lands (viz., DF and IG) through RP and PB enhanced ecosystem C sequestration rate and reduced CO2emissions from LUC. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.