bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanostructured Germanium Anode Materials for Advanced Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Li Xinran , Zheng Shasha , Shao Jinying , Xue Huaiguo , Pang Huan
Published: February 2017

In recent decades, Germanium (Ge) has been supposed to be the greatest potential candidate for new‐type composite electrodes to replace carbonous anodes for lithium‐ion batteries electrochemical and other energy storage devices, due to their excellent capacity properties and potential applications in rechargeable high‐performance batteries. What's more, all types of low‐dimensional Ge‐based nanomaterias, including nanowires, nanobelts, nanoparticles and nanotubes, have been explored for design and applications, owing to the superior physical and chemical characteristics that result from their geometric construction and low‐dimension. Recently, Ge‐based nanomaterials have been highlighted by large numbers of scientists and engineers. This review is focusing upon the advanced high‐performance rechargeable batteries (Lithium‐ion batteries, Sodium‐ion batteries and Magnesium‐ion batteries) with Ge‐based nanomaterials during past few decades.
Stille and Suzuki Cross‐Coupling Reactions as Versatile Tools for Modifications at C‐17 of Steroidal Skeletons – A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Koch Vanessa , Nieger Martin , Bräse Stefan
Published: February 2017

Herein, we report on a comparative Stille and Suzuki cross‐coupling study of steroidal vinyl (pseudo)halides with different boronic acids and tributyltin organyls. Furthermore, we have investigated the “inverse” case of those cross‐coupling reactions, i.e., the reaction of a steroidal vinylpinacolatoborane or a tributyltin steroid with various bromides. The development of both methods allows the introduction of different residues at C‐17 of steroid skeletons providing access to a broad variety of steroid analogues which are of high interest for biological screenings or natural product synthesis.

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On the Monte Carlo Description of Hot Carrier Effects and Device Characteristics of III‐N LEDs
Authors: Kivisaari Pyry , Sadi Toufik , Li Jingrui , Rinke Patrick , Oksanen Jani
Published: February 2017

Recent experiments have suggested that high energy charge carriers can have a significant effect on the operation of group III nitride (III‐N) light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), possibly playing an important role in the efficiency droop. As hot carriers are not accounted for by device simulation tools based on drift‐diffusion (DD) and quasiequilibrium conditions, more advanced tools are needed. Here, fully self‐consistent Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are developed to investigate the effects of hot carriers in device operation and to outline the shortcomings of the DD models in modeling multiquantum well (MQW) LEDs. The results show that hot carrier transport can lead to substantial electron overflow distributing the carriers more evenly in MQW structures, increasing the total recombination and leakage currents. Also Auger recombination is found to drive the distributions out of quasiequilibrium but, surprisingly, it does not contribute extensively to the leakage current. The simulations involve in‐house ab‐initio band structures as well as parameterized band structures, but qualitatively the results do not strongly depend on the band structure details. However, there is a clear discrepancy between the DD and MC simulations at bias voltages significantly exceeding the built‐in potential when the LED consists of several deep quantum wells.
Janus Co/CoP Nanoparticles as Efficient Mott–Schottky Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting in Wide pH Range
Authors: Xue Zhong‐Hua , Su Hui , Yu Qiu‐Ying , Zhang Bing , Wang Hong‐Hui , Li Xin‐Hao , Chen Jie‐Sheng
Published: February 2017

A controllable vacuum‐diffusion method for gradual phosphidation of carbon coated metallic Co nanoparticles into Co/CoP Janus nanoparticles is reported. Janus Co/CoP nanoparticles, as typical Mott–Schottky electrocatalysts, exhibit excellent hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction performance in various electrolytes across wide pH range along with high durability. The Mott–Schottky Co/CoP catalyst can work as bifunctional electrode materials for overall water splitting in wide pH range and can achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in neutral electrolyte at only 1.51 V.
Refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts (RARS) and RARS with thrombocytosis (RARS‐T): 2017 update on diagnosis, risk‐stratification, and management
Authors: Patnaik Mrinal M. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: February 2017

Disease Overview

Ring sideroblasts (RS) are erythroid precursors with abnormal perinuclear mitochondrial iron accumulation. Two myeloid neoplasms defined by the presence of RS, include refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts (RARS), now classified under myelodysplastic syndromes with RS (MDS‐RS) and RARS with thrombocytosis (RARS‐T); now called myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm with RS and thrombocytosis (MDS/MPN‐RS‐T).

Diagnosis

MDS‐RS is a lower risk MDS, with single or multilineage dysplasia (SLD/MLD), <5% bone marrow (BM) blasts and ≥15% BM RS (≥5% in the presence of SF3B1 mutations). MDS/MPN‐RS‐T, now a formal entity in the MDS/MPN overlap syndromes, has diagnostic features of MDS‐RS‐SLD, along with a platelet count ≥ 450 × 10(9)/L and large atypical megakaryocytes (similar to BCR‐ABL1 negative MPN).

Mutations and Karyotype

Mutations in SF3B1 are seen in ≥80% of patients with MDS‐RS‐SLD and MDS/MPN‐RS‐T, and strongly correlate with the presence of BM RS; MDS/MPN‐RS‐T patients also demonstrate JAK2V617F, ASXL1, DNMT3A, SETBP1, and TET2 mutations; with ASXL1/SETBP1 mutations adversely impacting survival. Cytogenetic abnormalities are uncommon in both diseases.

Risk stratification

Most patients with MDS‐RS‐SLD are stratified into lower risk groups by the revised‐International Prognostic Scoring System (R‐IPSS). Disease outcome in MDS/MPN‐RS‐T is better than that of MDS‐RS‐SLD, but worse than that of essential thrombocythemia. Both diseases have a low risk of leukemic

Treatment

Anemia and iron overload are complications seen in both and are managed similar to lower risk MDS and MPN. Aspirin therapy is reasonable in MDS/MPN‐RS‐T, especially in the presence of JAK2V617F, but the value of platelet‐lowering drugs is uncertain.
Proteintemplat‐gesteuerte Bildung eines Inhibitors des Koagulationsfaktors Xa durch eine Amidierung ohne Hintergrundreaktion
Authors: Jaegle Mike , Steinmetzer Torsten , Rademann Jörg
Published: February 2017

Proteintemplat‐gesteuerte Reaktionen ermöglichen eine “Ziel‐geleitete Synthese” von Proteinliganden ausgehend von reaktiven Fragmenten – im Idealfall ohne jegliche Hintergrundreaktion. Hier wird die Templat‐unterstützte Bildung von Amiden untersucht. Ein nukleophiles Fragment, das an Koagulationsfaktor Xa bindet, wurde mit dem Protein und 13 unterschiedlich aktivierten Dipeptiden inkubiert. Das Protein induzierte eine nicht‐katalytische Templat‐unterstützte Reaktion des Phenyl‐ und Trifluorethylesters; für Letzteren konnte eine vollständig Hintergrund‐freie Amidierung nachgewiesen werden. Ausgehend von zwei Startfragmenten mit mm Affinität wurde ein 29 nm superadditiver Inhibitor gebildet. Die Fragmentligation wurde mit hoher Empfindlichkeit über einen Enzymaktivitätsassay und Massenspektrometrie detektiert. Der Reaktionsfortschritt und die Autoinhibierung der Templat‐gesteuerten Reaktion durch das gebildete Ligationsprodukt wurden bestimmt, und die Struktur des Protein‐Inhibitor‐Komplexes wurde aufgeklärt.
Protein‐Templated Formation of an Inhibitor of the Blood Coagulation Factor Xa through a Background‐Free Amidation Reaction
Authors: Jaegle Mike , Steinmetzer Torsten , Rademann Jörg
Published: February 2017

Protein‐templated reactions enable the target‐guided formation of protein ligands from reactive fragments, ideally with no background reaction. Herein, we investigate the templated formation of amides. A nucleophilic fragment that binds to the coagulation factor Xa was incubated with the protein and thirteen differentially activated dipeptides. The protein induced a non‐catalytic templated reaction for the phenyl and trifluoroethyl esters; the latter was shown to be a completely background‐free reaction. Starting from two fragments with millimolar affinity, a 29 nm superadditive inhibitor of factor Xa was obtained. The fragment ligation reaction was detected with high sensitivity by an enzyme activity assay and by mass spectrometry. The reaction progress and autoinhibition of the templated reaction by the formed ligation product were determined, and the structure of the protein–inhibitor complex was elucidated.
Synthesis and characterization of metal complexes of azo dye based on 5‐nitro‐8‐hydroxyquinoline and their applications in dyeing polyester fabrics
Authors: El‐Wakiel Nadia A. , Rizk Hala F. , Ibrahim Seham A.
Published: February 2017

New Mn(II), Ni(II), Co(II) and Cu(II) complexes of an azo dye ligand based on p‐phenylenediamine with 5‐nitro‐8‐hydroxyquinoline were synthesized and characterized using elemental analysis, inductive coupled plasma analysis, molar conductance, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, magnetic moment measurements, and infrared, 1H NMR, electron ionization mass and UV–visible spectral studies. The spectral and analytical data reveal that the azo dye ligand acts as a monobasic bidentate ligand via deprotonated OH and nitrogen atom of the quinoline ring. The data support the formulation of all complexes with a 2:1 ligand‐to‐metal ratio, except the Mn(II) complex that has a mononuclear formula. All complexes have an octahedral structure. The molar conductance data reveal that all the metal complexes are non‐electrolytic in nature. From the X‐ray data, the average particle size of the ligand and its complexes is 0.32–0.64 nm. The colour fastness to light, washing, perspiration, sublimation and rubbing of the prepared ligand and its complexes on polyester fabrics and colorimetric properties were measured. The results reveal that the ligand and its complexes have a good to moderate affinity to polyester fibres.
Inorganic–organic hybrid chitosan‐based Schiff base–Ni complex as a novel, highly efficient and recyclable heterogeneous catalyst for synthesis of pyrazolophthalazinediones
Authors: Naeimi Hossein , Lahouti Sepideh
Published: February 2017

A Schiff base based on chitosan was synthesized through treatment of chitosan and p‐dimethylaminobenzaldehyde in methanol solution. This biopolymeric Schiff base was used to prepare a new first row transition metal complex of Ni(II). The biopolymeric Schiff base and the synthesized tetra‐coordinated complex were characterized using Fourier transform infrared, 1H NMR and 13C NMR techniques. Then, an efficient synthetic method for functionalized 1H–pyrazolo[1,2‐b]phthalazine‐5,10‐diones was successfully developed using one‐pot domino reaction of ninhydrin and malononitrile with 3‐arylamino‐5,5‐dimethyl‐2‐cyclohexenones catalysed by the chitosan‐based Schiff base complex of Ni(II) at room temperature. The advantages of this protocol are easy work‐up, short reaction times and high yield of products and also the catalyst can be readily isolated from the reaction mixture and recycled without loss of catalytic activity.
Preparation and properties of poly(siloxane‐ether‐urethane)‐acrylic hybrid emulsions
Authors: Yi Tingfa , Ma Guozhang , Hou Caiying , Li Shasha , Zhang Ruofei , Wu Jianbing , Hao Xiaogang
Published: February 2017

Poly(siloxane‐ether‐urethane)‐acrylic (PU‐AC) hybrid emulsions were prepared by introducing different hydroxyethoxypropyl‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) content into the acrylic‐terminated poly(ether‐urethane) backbone and then in situ copolymerizing with methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate via emulsion process. The effects of PDMS on the particle size and viscoelastic behavior of the hybrid emulsions were investigated. Meanwhile, the hydrogen bonding, mechanical and thermal mechanical properties, water resistance, the surface gloss, and wettability of the resultant hybrid films were also studied. The results showed that all the hybrid emulsions showed shear‐thinning behaviors, and the introduction of PDMS resulted in the formation of the hybrid emulsions with increased average particle size and decreased viscosity. The chemical bonds built between PU and AC yielded higher than 73% crosslinking fraction in all the hybrid materials, but this value decreased with increasing PDMS content because PDMS reduced the hydrogen bonding interactions and enhanced the phase separation. As a result, an increase in the PDMS content led to an increase in the elongation, water resistance, surface roughness, and water hydrophobic of the films, but the tensile strength, hardness, storage modulus, and glass transitions temperature decreased. It is suggested that introduction of PDMS can provide the hybrid materials with the improved flexibility, water resistance, and surface hydrophobicity, which has potential application value in the fouling‐release coatings, biomaterials, and surface fishing. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44927.
Otter occupancy in the Cape Peninsula: Estimating the probability of river habitat use by Cape clawless otters, Aonyx capensis, across a gradient of human influence
Authors: Okes Nicola C. , O'Riain M. Justin
Published: February 2017

The distribution of Cape clawless otters, Aonyx capensis, in South Africa and their habitat requirements in freshwater and marine systems has been well established. There is, however, a lack of information on how otters are adapting to urban development and the transformation of critical freshwater habitat.

Within the Western Cape, the Cape Peninsula exhibits substantial variation in levels of human impact over a small geographic range, offering an excellent opportunity to explore the hypothesis that otters are adversely affected by habitat transformation.

A single season occupancy model was used based on otter sign to determine the probability of otter occupancy across a gradient of habitat transformation at both landscape and local scales.

The probability of otters occupying river habitat in the Cape Peninsula was low (P = 0.29) but increased with proximity to marine protected areas (MPAs) that included estuaries and wetland habitat. Otter presence was not influenced by proximity to urban areas at the landscape scale, but declined in canalized sections of river that were heavily degraded by human activity.

Despite being heavily transformed, lowland aquatic ecosystems may still provide critical resources in the form of fresh water and breeding sites, and together with food within the marine habitat may be sustaining the peninsula's otter population.

In order for otters to persist on the peninsula, conservation authorities must maintain wetland, estuarine and river habitat in close proximity to MPAs. Further research is needed to determine the long‐term impacts on otters persisting in degraded ecosystems.

Annual single season occupancy surveys provide a rapid, cost‐effective method for monitoring changes in otter occupancy which should be incorporated into current monitoring efforts to provide much needed long‐term monitoring of a top predator in freshwater ecosystems.
The status of marine biodiversity in the Eastern Central Atlantic (West and Central Africa)
Authors: Polidoro Beth A. , Ralph Gina M. , Strongin Kyle , Harvey Michael , Carpenter Kent E. , Arnold Rachel , Buchanan Jack R. , Camara Khairdine Mohamed Abdallahi , Collette Bruce B. , Comeros‐Raynal Mia T. , De Bruyne Godefroy , Gon Ofer , Harold Antony S. , Harwell Heather , Hulley Percival A. , Iwamoto Tomio , Knudsen Steen W. , Lewembe Jean de Dieu , Linardich Christi , Lindeman Kenyon C. , Monteiro Vanda , Munroe Thomas , Nunoo Francis K.E. , Pollock Caroline M. , Poss Stuart , Russell Barry , Sayer Catherine , Sidibe Aboubacar , Smith‐Vaniz William , Stump Emilie , Sylla Mor , Tito De Morais Luis , Vié Jean‐Christophe , Williams Akanbi
Published: February 2017

The status of marine biodiversity in the Eastern Central Atlantic (ECA), especially of coastal and pelagic fishes, is of concern owing to a number of threats including overharvesting, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change combined with inadequate policy responses, legislation, and enforcement.

This study provides the first comprehensive documentation of the presence, status, and level of extinction risk, based on IUCN Red List assessment methodology, for more than 1800 marine species, including all taxonomically described marine vertebrates (marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds, fishes); complete clades of selected marine invertebrates (sea cucumbers, cone snails, cephalopods, lobsters, reef‐building corals); and marine plants (mangroves, seagrasses).

Approximately 8% of all marine species assessed in the ECA are in threatened categories, while 4% are listed as Near Threatened, 73% are Least Concern, and 15% are Data Deficient. Fisheries and overharvesting are the biggest threats to living marine resources in the ECA, with 87% of threatened species across all taxonomic groups affected by both large‐ and small‐scale targeted fisheries, excessive capture as by‐catch, or unsustainable harvest.

The results of this study will transform the current state of knowledge and increase capacity for regional stakeholders to identify and enact marine conservation and research priorities, as a number of species are identified as having high conservation and/or research priorities in the region.

Through the process of marine species data collection and risk assessments conducted over the past 5 years, several key conservation actions and research needs are identified to enable more effective conservation of marine biodiversity in the ECA, including increased governance, multilateral collaboration, taxonomic training, and improved reporting of fisheries catch and effort.
Double‐Stranded Helical Oligomers Covalently Bridged by Rotary Cyclic Boronate Esters
Authors: Iida Hiroki , Ohmura Kenji , Noda Ryuta , Iwahana Soichiro , Katagiri Hiroshi , Ousaka Naoki , Hayashi Taku , Hijikata Yuh , Irle Stephan , Yashima Eiji
Published: February 2017

Novel double helices covalently bridged by cyclic boronate esters were synthesized from complementary dimers with an m‐terphenyl backbone joined by a chiral or achiral phenylene linker bearing diethyl boronates and diols, respectively. The X‐ray crystallographic analysis and variable‐temperature NMR and circular dichroism measurements, along with theoretical calculations, revealed that the double helices function as a “molecular rotor” in which the cyclic boronate ester units rotate, yielding two stable rotamers at low temperatures. Moreover, our data indicates that the covalently bonded double helices can undergo a unique helix‐inversion simultaneously with a rotational motion of the boronate esters.
Another look at the size of the low‐surface‐brightness galaxy VCC 1661 in the Virgo Cluster
Authors: Koch A. , Black C. S. , Rich R. M. , Longstaff F. A. , Collins M. L. M. , Janz J.
Published: February 2017

The morphologies of individual cluster galaxies are an important path to studying galaxy formation and evolution. Here, we present new wide‐field images of the low‐surface‐brightness Virgo Cluster dwarf galaxy VCC 1661. The extant literature lists a broad range of radii for this object, covering a factor of more than four, depending on the filters used and the details of the analyses. While some studies find a radius typical of other Virgo dwarfs and note the normality of this object, any larger spatial extent, taken at face value, would render this galaxy the largest dwarf in the Virgo Cluster samples. Confirmation of a large extent of dwarf galaxies has often led to the discovery of tidal tails and would then, also in VCC 1661, indicate a severe state of tidal disruption. Given the importance of galactic sizes for assessing tidal interactions of the satellites with their hosts, we thus combine our surface brightness profile with data from the literature to investigate further the nature of this galaxy. However, our new characteristic radius for VCC 1661 of re = 24.1″ ± 7.7″ and the previously noted smooth appearance of its isophotes are fully consistent with the remainder of the Advanced Camera for Surveys Virgo Cluster Survey dwarf galaxy population without any need to invoke tidal perturbations.
EliteTree™: an advanced biomass tree crop technology that features greater wood density and accelerated stem growth
Authors: Ko Jae‐Heung , Kim Won‐Chan , Cho Jin‐Seong , Choi Young‐Im , Park Eung‐Jun , Im Jong Hee , Han Okran , Keathley Daniel , Han Kyung‐Hwan
Published: February 2017

Due to wood's potential for large‐scale commercial production of biofuels, a rapid increase in the use of wood as a source of energy is expected as policies promoting greater use of renewable energy are adopted globally. However, the economics of purpose‐grown tree feedstocks for energy show that these production systems are not financially viable without improvement in the base growth rate. Conventional breeding programs have produced willow and poplar clones that show potential for rapid growth, but current top‐performing clones do not grow fast enough for profitable biofuel production. Genetic manipulation of secondary wall biosynthesis is the most direct path to resolving this growth barrier. To that end, we developed an innovative biomass tree crop technology, EliteTree™, that results in greater wood density and accelerated growth of stems. This technology is built on overexpression of Gibberellin 20‐oxidase to increase plant stem growth in both height and diameter and increase lignocellulosic biomass accumulation through overexpression of the transcription factor MYB46, which is a master regulator for secondary wall biosynthesis. EliteTree™ technology uses 2A‐mediated bicistronic gene expression, with our proprietary utility promoter DX15, such that the genetic manipulation is limited to wood tissue, yielding transgenic poplars with xylem‐specific co‐expression of MYB46 and PdGA20ox1. The development of faster growing elite tree genotypes with increased wood density and growth rates will pave the way for truly sustainable and economically viable bioenergy/biofuel production using short rotation tree plantations, and ultimately will lessen carbon emissions and has the potential to revitalize rural economies. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
European Society of Endocrine Surgeons (ESES) and European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumours (ENSAT) recommendations for the surgical management of adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Gaujoux S , Mihai R , Carnaille B , Dousset B , Fiori C , Porpiglia F , Hellman P , Iacobone M , Kraimps J-L , Donatini G , Langenhuijsen J , Lorenz K , Mathonnet M , Mirallié E , Blanchard C , van Dijkum E Nieveen , Raffaelli M , Rayes N , Sébag F , Triponez F , Valeri A , Waldmann J , Zinzindohoue F
Published: February 2017

Background

Radical surgery provides the best chance of cure for adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), but perioperative surgical care for these patients is yet to be standardized.

Methods

A working group appointed jointly by ENSAT and ESES used Delphi methodology to produce evidence-based recommendations for the perioperative surgical care of patients with ACC. Papers were retrieved from electronic databases. Evidence and recommendations were classified according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system, and were discussed until consensus was reached within the group.

Results

Twenty-five recommendations for the perioperative surgical care of patients with ACC were formulated. The quality of evidence is low owing to the rarity of the disease and the lack of prospective surgical trials. Multi-institutional prospective cohort studies and prospective RCTs are urgently needed and should be strongly encouraged.

Conclusion

The present evidence-based recommendations provide comprehensive advice on the optimal perioperative care for patients undergoing surgery for ACC.
Randomized clinical trial of comprehensive geriatric assessment and optimization in vascular surgery
Authors: Partridge J S L , Harari D , Martin F C , Peacock J L , Bell R , Mohammed A , Dhesi J K
Published: February 2017

Background

Increasing numbers of older patients are undergoing vascular surgery. Inadequate preoperative assessment and optimization may contribute to increased postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Methods

Patients aged at least 65 years scheduled for elective aortic aneurysm repair or lower-limb arterial surgery were enrolled in an RCT of standard preoperative assessment or preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment and optimization. Randomization was stratified by sex and surgical site (aorta/lower limb). Primary outcome was length of hospital stay. Secondary outcome measures included new medical co-morbidities, postoperative medical or surgical complications, discharge to a higher level of dependency and 30-day readmission rate.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included in the final analysis (control 91, intervention 85). Geometric mean length of stay was 5·53 days in the control group and 3·32 days in the intervention group (ratio of geometric means 0·60, 95 per cent c.i. 0·46 to 0·79; P < 0·001). There was a lower incidence of delirium (11 versus 24 per cent; P = 0·018), cardiac complications (8 versus 27 per cent; P = 0·001) and bladder/bowel complications (33 versus 55 per cent; P = 0·003) in the intervention group compared with the control group. Patients in the intervention group were less likely to require discharge to a higher level of dependency (4 of 85 versus 12 of 91; P = 0·051).

Conclusion

In this study of patients aged 65 years or older undergoing vascular surgery, preoperative comprehensive geriatric assessment was associated with a shorter length of hospital stay. Patients undergoing assessment and optimization had a lower incidence of complications and were less likely to be discharged to a higher level of dependency. Registration number: ISRCTN23142588 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).
BRAF‐V600E immunohistochemistry in a large series of glial and glial–neuronal tumors
Authors: Breton Quentin , Plouhinec Hélène , Prunier‐Mirebeau Delphine , Boisselier Blandine , Michalak Sophie , Menei Philippe , Rousseau Audrey
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Some glial–neuronal tumors (GNT) (pleomorphic xantho‐astrocytoma [PXA], ganglioglioma [GG]) display BRAF‐V600E mutation, which represents a diagnostic clue to these entities. Targeted therapies against BRAF‐V600 protein have shown promising results in GNT. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of BRAF‐V600E immunohistochemistry (IHC, clone VE1) in daily practice in a series of 140 glial, and GNT compared to molecular biology (MB) techniques.

Methods

We performed BRAF‐V600E IHC on all 140 cases. We used Sanger sequencing and allele‐specific quantitative PCR (ASQ‐PCR) to detect BRAF‐V600E mutation when sufficient amount of materiel was available.

Results

BRAF‐V600E immunostaining was detected in 29.5% of cases (41/140 cases; 61.5% GG/GC/AGG (32/52), 33% PXA, 6.6% pilocytic astrocytomas). In 47 cases, MB could be performed: Sanger sequencing and ASQ‐PCR in 34 cases, ASQ‐PCR only in 11 cases, and Sanger sequencing only in two cases. In initial tumors, Sanger sequencing identified BRAF‐V600E mutation in 19.5% tumors (seven of 36 tested cases). ASQ‐PCR showed mutation in 48.5% tumors (17/35 tested cases). In six cases (5 GG, one PXA), the results were discordant between IHC and MB; the five GG cases were immunopositive for BRAF‐V600E but wild type with both MB techniques. In another 7 GG, the percentage of mutated (ganglion) cells was low, and Sanger sequencing failed to detect the mutation, which was detected by IHC and ASQ‐PCR.

Conclusions

In tumors with few mutated cells (e.g., GG), anti‐BRAF‐V600E IHC appears more sensitive than Sanger sequencing. The latter, although considered as the gold standard, is not to be used up‐front to detect BRAF mutation in GG. The combination of IHC and ASQ‐PCR appears more efficient to appraise the indication of targeted therapies in these glioneuronal tumors.
Calcium‐Independent Activation of an Allosteric Network in Langerin by Heparin Oligosaccharides
Authors: Hanske Jonas , Wawrzinek Robert , Geissner Andreas , Wamhoff Eike‐Christian , Sellrie Katrin , Schmidt Henrik , Seeberger Peter H. , Rademacher Christoph
Published: February 2017

The C‐type lectin receptor Langerin is a glycan‐binding protein that serves as an uptake receptor on Langerhans cells and is essential for the formation of Birbeck granules. Whereas most Langerin ligands are recognized by a canonical Ca2+‐dependent binding site, heparins have been proposed to make additional contacts to a secondary, Ca2+‐independent site. Glycan array screening and biomolecular NMR spectroscopy were employed to investigate the molecular mechanism of these interactions. We observed that binding of heparin hexasaccharides to a secondary site did not require the presence of Ca2+ and activated a previously identified intradomain allosteric network of Langerin (thus far only associated with Ca2+ affinity and release). We propose a communication hub between these two binding sites, which sheds new light on modulatory functions of Langerin–heparin interactions.
Propofol protects against hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury via miR‐133a‐5p regulating the expression of MAPK6
Authors: Hao Wei , Zhao Zhi‐Hui , Meng Qing‐Tao , Tie Mu‐Er , Lei Shao‐Qing , Xia Zhong‐Yuan
Published: February 2017

Propofol has been found to play an important role in hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury with the antioxidant effects. However, the molecular mechanism of propofol in hepatic I/R injury has not been fully understood. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned into Sham group, hepatic I/R group, and propofol treatment group. I/R injury was attained by ischemia for 1 h and reperfusion for 2 h. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity were detected. QSG‐7701 cells were cultured in hypoxia condition for 15 h and then in reoxygenation condition for 6 h to imitate hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury in vitro. Real‐time RT‐PCR and Western blot were performed to determine the expression of miR‐133a‐5p and MAPK6. Luciferase reporter assay was used to determine the regulation of miR‐133a‐5p on MAPK6. Propofol significantly reduced the activities of serum AST and ALT induced by hepatic I/R injury in rats. Propofol increased the level of miR‐133a‐5p and decreased the expression of MAPK6 in vivo and in vitro. Luciferase reporter assay showed that MAPK6 was a target of miR‐133a‐5p. Knockdown of miR‐133a‐5p abrogated the effect of propofol on the upregulation of MAPK6 induced by H/R. MAPK6 overexpression promoted the cell apoptosis induced by H/R which could be attenuated by propofol. Finally, we found that miR‐133a‐5p reversed the protective effect of propofol in rats with hepatic I/R injury. Propofol showed protective roles for hepatic I/R injury in vivo and H/R injury in vitro, which involved with miR‐133a‐5p regulating the expression of MAPK6.
Radiation dose benchmarks in pediatric cardiac catheterization: A prospective multi‐center C3PO‐QI study
Authors: Cevallos Priscila C. , Armstrong Aimee K. , Glatz Andrew C. , Goldstein Bryan H. , Gudausky Todd M. , Leahy Ryan A. , Petit Christopher J. , Shahanavaz Shabana , Trucco Sara M. , Bergersen Lisa J.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

This study sought to update benchmark values to use a quality measure prospectively.

Background

Congenital Cardiac Catheterization Outcomes Project – Quality Improvement (C3PO‐QI), a multi‐center registry, defined initial radiation dose benchmarks retrospectively across common interventional procedures. These data facilitated a dose metric endorsed by the American College of Cardiology in 2014.

Methods

Data was collected prospectively by 9 C3PO‐QI institutions with complete case capture between 1/1/2014 and 6/30/2015. Radiation was measured in total air kerma (mGy), dose area product (DAP) (µGy*M2), DAP per body weight, and fluoroscopy time (min), and reported by age group as median, 75th and 95th%ile for the following six interventional procedures: (1) atrial septal defect closure; (2) aortic valvuloplasty; (3) treatment of coarctation of the aorta; (4) patent ductus arteriosus closure; (5) pulmonary valvuloplasty; and (6) transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation.

Results

The study was comprised of 1,680 unique cases meeting inclusion criteria. Radiation doses were lowest for pulmonary valvuloplasty (age <1 yrs, median mGy: 59, DAP: 249) and highest in transcatheter pulmonary valve implantation (age >15 yrs, median mGy: 1835, DAP: 17990). DAP/kg standardized outcome measures across weights within an age group and procedure type significantly more than DAP alone. Radiation doses decreased for all procedures compared to those reported previously by both median and median weight‐based percentile curves. These differences in radiation exposure were observed without changes in median fluoroscopy time.

Conclusions

This study updates previously established benchmarks to reflect QI efforts over time. These thresholds can be applied for quality measurement and comparison. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
22q11.2 microduplication syndrome with associated esophageal atresia/tracheo‐esophageal fistula and vascular ring
Authors: Nguyen Linda T. , Fleishman Rachel , Flynn Emilee , Prasad Rajeev , Moulick Achintya , Mesia Cesar Igor , Moyer Sue , Jethva Reena
Published: February 2017

Key Clinical Message

This case report describes a patient with a 22q11.2 duplication. His features, which include VACTERL association with an esophageal atresia/tracheo‐esophageal fistula and a vascular ring, expand the previously described phenotype for this duplication.
Sensitive Detection of Hg2+ with Switchable Electrochemiluminescence Luminophore and Disposable Bipolar Electrode
Authors: Liu Hongxing , Zhou Xiaoming , Shen Jinjin , Xing Da
Published: February 2017

A novel paper‐based bipolar electrode‐electrochemiluminescence (pBPE‐ECL) switch system was used for the rapid, label‐free, and sensitive detection of Hg2+. In the proposed approach, Hg2+ selectively mediates two thymine‐enriched single‐stranded DNA probes to form double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA). In the presence of Hg2+, the “light‐switch” molecule [Ru(phen)2dppz]2+ can freely intercalate into the base pairs of the dsDNA, resulting in intense ECL emission. The assay takes advantage of the wireless pBPE‐ECL platform to yield a low‐cost, disposable, and sensitive analysis. The system has a limit of 0.1 nM for Hg2+ detection. We also showed that the system can be used to distinguish Hg2+ over other metal ions, including Pb2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Ba2+, Co2+, Cd2+, Fe3+, Mn2+, and Li+. Moreover, the proposed approach was rapid, low‐cost, and label‐free for effective sensing of Hg2+ in drinking and lake water.
Do CH–Anion and Anion–π Interactions Alter the Mechanism of 2:1 Host–Guest Complexation in Arylethynyl Monourea Anion Receptors?
Authors: Eytel Lisa M. , Gilbert Annie K. , Görner Paul , Zakharov Lev N. , Johnson Darren W. , Haley Michael M.
Published: February 2017

Selective tuning of arylethynyl urea scaffolds for anionic guests requires an understanding of preferred binding motifs of the host–guest interaction. To investigate the binding preference of receptors without a pre‐organized binding pocket, two electron‐deficient phenylacetylene receptors with a single urea moiety have been prepared and were found to bind halides as 2:1 host–guest complexes that feature key CH–anion or anion–π interactions. These supporting interactions also appear to influence the mechanism of the 2:1 binding event.
Anti‐Inflammatory Oxicams as Multi‐donor Ligand Systems: pH‐ and Solvent‐Dependent Coordination Modes of Meloxicam and Piroxicam to Ru and Os
Authors: Aman Farhana , Hanif Muhammad , Kubanik Mario , Ashraf Adnan , Söhnel Tilo , Jamieson Stephen M. F. , Siddiqui Waseeq Ahmad , Hartinger Christian G.
Published: February 2017

The nitrogen‐ and sulfur‐containing 1,2‐benzothiazines meloxicam and piroxicam are widely used as nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Intrigued by the presence of multiple donor atoms and therefore potentially rich coordination chemistry, we prepared a series of organometallic Ru and Os compounds with meloxicam and piroxicam featuring either as mono‐ or bidentate ligand systems. The choice of the solvent and the pH value was identified as the critical parameter to achieve selectively mono‐ or bidentate coordination. The coordination modes were confirmed experimentally by NMR spectroscopy and single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Using DFT calculations, it was established that complexes in which meloxicam acts as a bidentate N,O donor are energetically more favorable than coordination as O,O and S,O donor systems. Since meloxicam and piroxicam derivatives have shown anticancer activity in the past, we aimed to compare the complexes with mono‐ and bidentate ligands on their in vitro anticancer activity. However, stability studies revealed that only the latter complexes were stable in [D6]DMSO/D2O (5:95) and therefore no direct comparisons could be made. The meloxicam complexes 1 and 2 showed moderate cytotoxicity, whereas the piroxicam derivatives 5 and 6 were hardly active against the utilized cell lines.
Hydrogenation of m‐chloronitrobenzene over amorphous Ni‐B/CNTs catalysts: Promoting effect of CNTs confinement on the catalytic performance
Authors: Li Feng , Liang Jinrong , Wang Keliang , Cao Bo , Zhu Wenxi , Song Hua
Published: February 2017

Ni‐B amorphous alloy particles were selectively loaded inside and outside of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to form a series of Ni‐B/CNTs amorphous alloy catalysts. The confinement effects of the CNTs on the physicochemical properties of Ni‐B/CNTs were investigated. The results show that compared with external loading, the Ni‐B active components after internal loading were subjected to the confinement effect, which better inhibited the growth and aggregation of Ni‐B particles, forming smaller‐size Ni‐B particles, and improved the thermal stability of the Ni‐B amorphous alloy. Moreover, the Ni‐B particles confined in the channels can more efficiently activate hydrogen. During the m‐chloronitrobenzene hydrogenation, the Ni‐B/CNTs with Ni‐B internal loading showed higher catalytic hydrogenation activity than that for Ni‐B external loading. High‐temperature treatment caused a decrease in the catalytic activity, but the internal loading improved the stability of the catalysts. The internal loading method could effectively reduce the loss of the active component, which contributed to improving the stability of the catalyst.
A New Strategy to Design Highly Sustainable Sulfide PhotoCatalyst for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Wang Lu , Wang Wenzhong
Published: February 2017

A new strategy has been developed to design sulfides photocatalysts with superior stability without any noble metal deposition. The as‐designed Ag8SnS6 showed capability of steadily evolving hydrogen for at least 400 h without any deactivation and the turnover number is as high as 95.8.
Mutual Absolute Continuity of Interior and Exterior Harmonic Measure Implies Rectifiability
Authors: Azzam Jonas , Mourgoglou Mihalis , Tolsa Xavier
Published: February 2017

We show that, for disjoint domains in the euclidean space whose boundaries satisfy a nondegeneracy condition, mutual absolute continuity of their harmonic measures implies absolute continuity with respect to surface measure and rectifiability in the intersection of their boundaries. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Magnetic Nanoparticles by Ultrashort Pulsed Laser Ablation of Iron in Different Liquids
Authors: Kanitz Alexander , Hoppius Jan S. , del Mar Sanz María , Maicas Marco , Ostendorf Andreas , Gurevich Evgeny L.
Published: February 2017

Magnetic nanoparticles were generated by ultrashort pulsed laser ablation of an iron target in water, methanol, ethanol, acetone and toluene. The relationship between ablation rate, liquid properties and the physical and chemical properties of the nanoparticles was studied. Composition, morphology and magnetic properties were investigated by TEM, XPS and vibrating‐sample (VSM) and SQUID magnetometry. The properties of the generated nanoparticle ensembles reflected the influence of the liquid environment on the particle formation process. For example, the composition was strongly dependent on the carbon to oxygen ratio within the molecules of the liquid. In contrast to short pulsed laser ablation in liquids, the nanoparticles generated by ultrashort pulses had a higher level of polycrystallinity.
Characterization of a Dinuclear Copper(II) Complex and Its Fleeting Mixed‐Valent Copper(II)/Copper(III) Counterpart
Authors: Kochem Amélie , Gennarini Federica , Yemloul Mehdi , Orio Maylis , Le Poul Nicolas , Rivière Eric , Giorgi Michel , Faure Bruno , Le Mest Yves , Réglier Marius , Simaan A. Jalila
Published: February 2017

The synthesis of a dinuclear copper(II) complex, supported by a 1,3‐diamino‐2‐propanol‐based tetraamide ligand, is reported. Structural properties in the solid state and in solution, by means of XRD analysis and NMR spectroscopy, respectively, provide evidence of a highly flexible complex that can display several conformations, leading to the image of the wings of a butterfly. The complex was fully characterized and the redox properties were investigated. Room‐temperature spectro‐electrochemistry was used to monitor the formation of a metastable mono‐oxidized product that displayed an absorption band centered at λ=463 nm. EPR investigation of the low‐temperature, chemically generated, mono‐oxidized product reveals the presence of an intermediate described as a mixed‐valent CuIICuIII species, which is a model of the possible highly oxidizing intermediate in particulate methane monooxygenase.
A Versatile Approach for In Situ Monitoring of Photoswitches and Photopolymerizations
Authors: Dolinski Neil D. , Page Zachariah A. , Eisenreich Fabian , Niu Jia , Hecht Stefan , Read de Alaniz Javier , Hawker Craig J.
Published: February 2017

A simple, inexpensive, and modular method to directly illuminate NMR samples for in situ analysis of photochemical transformations is reported. The versatility of this technique is demonstrated by analyzing the light‐induced propagating front for small‐molecule photoswitches and the kinetics of photocontrolled living radical polymerizations. In situ measurements allow oxygen‐sensitive and rapid photoevents to be studied in detail, leading to reliable determination of photoswitching quantum yields and polymerization rates. By systematically tuning light intensity, a direct relationship between propagation rate and intensity is revealed. Of particular note is the facile translation of the conditions identified through this NMR analysis to analogous benchtop experiments with insight into the nature of the photoreactive species.
Electrochemical Behavior of PEDOT/Lignin in Ionic Liquid Electrolytes: Suitable Cathode/Electrolyte System for Sodium Batteries
Authors: Casado Nerea , Hilder Matthias , Pozo‐Gonzalo Cristina , Forsyth Maria , Mecerreyes David
Published: February 2017

Biomass‐derived polymers, such as lignin, contain quinone/ hydroquinone redox moieties that can be used to store charge. Composites based on the biopolymer lignin and several conjugated polymers have shown good charge‐storage properties. However, their performance has been only studied in acidic aqueous media limiting their applications mainly to supercapacitors. Here, we show that PEDOT/lignin (PEDOT: poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)) biopolymers are electroactive in aprotic ionic liquids (ILs) and we move a step further by assembling sodium full cell batteries using PEDOT/lignin as electrode material and IL electrolytes. Thus, the electrochemical activity and cycling of PEDOT/lignin electrodes was investigated in 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (BMPyrTFSI), 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (BMPyrFSI), 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMImTFSI) and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (EMImFSI) IL electrolytes. The effects of water and sodium salt addition to the ILs were investigated to obtain optimum electrolyte systems for sodium batteries. Finally, sodium batteries based on PEDOT/lignin cathode with imidazolium‐based IL electrolyte showed higher capacity values than pyrrolidinium ones, reaching 70 mAhg−1. Our results demonstrate that PEDOT/lignin composites can serve as low cost and sustainable cathode materials for sodium batteries.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) in Asian and European populations
Authors: Kumar Alok , de Leiva Alberto
Published: February 2017

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder caused by relative or absolute insulin deficiency and characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia. It is expected that by year 2025, 80% of all type 2 diabetic patients will be living in developing or low‐ and middle‐income countries. Among Asians, there has been an overall increase in abdominal obesity; however, the risk of diabetes in these populations starts at much lower body mass index as compared to Caucasians. A significant proportion of diabetic patients with adult‐onset, initially nonrequiring insulin treatment, have diabetes‐associated autoantibodies in their sera. A new subclass of diabetes with the designation of latent autoimmune diabetes of adult‐onset (LADA) has been proposed for this category of subjects. Studies have demonstrated that patients with autoimmune diabetes, characterized by the presence of glutamic decarboxylase autoantibodies display a different clinical phenotype from classical type 2 diabetes without glutamic decarboxylase autoantibodies. This subset of phenotypic type 2 diabetes subjects with islet autoantibodies tend to have sulphonylurea failure and need insulin treatment earlier in the disease process. Diagnosing LADA at an initial stage will be important so that insulin can be initiated earlier, facilitating improved glycemic control sooner as well as the preservation of residual beta‐cell function in adult‐onset autoimmune diabetes. Because of differences in dietary habits, environmental factors, and phenotypic characteristics between European and Asian populations, there may be heterogeneity in the prevalence and other characteristics of LADA in these two populations.
Stability and change in patterns of eating disorder symptoms from adolescence to young adulthood
Authors: Pearson Carolyn M. , Miller Jonathan , Ackard Diann M. , Loth Katie A. , Wall Melanie M. , Haynos Ann F. , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: February 2017

Using a community adolescent sample, we aimed to (a) empirically derive eating disorder (ED) symptom groups, (b) examine the longitudinal stability of those groups over 10 years, and (c) identify risk factors associated with ED group stability and transition through young adulthood. Young people (N = 2,287) from the Project EAT cohort participated at baseline (1998–1999) and at 10‐year follow‐up (2008–2009). Participants completed anthropometric measures at baseline and self‐report surveys on disordered eating symptoms and risk factors at both time points. Latent transition modeling was used to test the first two aims and multinomial logistic regression was used for the third aim. Three groups emerged and were labeled as: (a) asymptomatic, (b) dieting, (c) disordered eating (e.g., binge eating, compensatory behaviors). Stability of group membership over 10 years was highest for those in the asymptomatic group, while those in the dieting group showed equal likelihood of transitioning to any group. There was a 75% chance that those in the disordered eating group would continue to belong to a symptomatic group 10 years later. We found that these transitions could be predicted by baseline risk factors. For example, adolescents with one standard deviation higher depressive symptoms than their peers had 53% higher odds (OR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.09–2.16) of transitioning from the asymptomatic group to the disordered eating group. Transition among ED groups is relatively common during adolescence and early adulthood. By targeting risk factors such as self‐esteem and familial factors in early adolescence, prevention efforts may be improved.