bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of productive research tasks in working with gifted students in teaching Serbian language and literature
Authors: Stakić Mirjana , Milovanović Boško
Published: October 2015

In the work we examine the possibility of application of productive research tasks in working with gifted students in teaching Serbian language and literature. Using specific examples of interpretations of literary works we show that productive research assignments encourage students' creative and inventive expression, creativity, imagination and criticality and enable them to develop in accordance with their personality, individual preferences and abilities. In the examples of their use in problem solving, we determine how productive research tasks are conducive to gifted students who need to learn through problem solving and school work and to experience learning as a challenge. They present the basis for independent research, which allows gifted students to express their own creativity and the need to acquire new, challenging knowledge, and represent a powerful motivational tool that teachers can use in order to further develop their talent. Creative application of the productive research tasks in teaching Serbian language and literature is the possibility that the education of gifted students is not treated as elitist question, but to transform teaching process into development of giftedness and talent, where the role of the teacher in the teaching process rises to the role of the mentor.
Role of parents as a protective factor against adolescent athletes’ doping susceptibility
Authors: Blank C , Leichtfried V , Müller D , Schobersberger W
Published: October 2015

Background. Although literature on sports psychology outlines parental influence in various areas,  research has not focused on its potential in the framework of doping.Objective. To assess whether parents’ knowledge about doping effects, and their behaviour and beliefs might act as a protecting factor for Austrian junior (14 - 18 years) elite athletes’ doping susceptibility (DS).Methods. Questionnaires were distributed to 1 818 student athletes and their parents. As well as collecting sociodemographic data, information about current sports activity levels and the former sports careers of parents, the following categories were included: (i) knowledge about effects of doping; (ii) parental behaviour; (iii) parental beliefs about athletes’ skills to become a professional athlete; and (iv) DS.Results. In total 527 data sets were entered for analysis. Current state of knowledge was significantly different between mothers (0.72 (0.2)) and fathers (0.76 (0.2)) (p=0.003). Next to situational variables, only fathers’ behaviour, which was moderated by fathers’ beliefs, was a significant predictor of athletes’ DS.Conclusion. Fathers have the potential of acting as a protective factor for DS in athletes, but only if their level of belief is moderate. Doping prevention strategies should include parents, but need to be careful on  the role they are planning to fulfil, with an emphasis on soft skills (e.g. communication). Future research might include variables from sports psychology such as motivational climate, goal orientation and belief in success as possible mediators of the influence of parents on their adolescent children in the sport  setting.
Hypocretin neuron-specific transcriptome profiling identifies the sleep modulator Kcnh4a
Authors: Yelin-Bekerman Laura , Elbaz Idan , Diber Alex , Dahary Dvir , Gibbs-Bar Liron , Alon Shahar , Lerer-Goldshtein Tali , Appelbaum Lior
Published: October 2015

Sleep has been conserved throughout evolution; however, the molecular and neuronal mechanisms of sleep are largely unknown. The hypothalamic hypocretin/orexin (Hcrt) neurons regulate sleep\wake states, feeding, stress, and reward. To elucidate the mechanism that enables these various functions and to identify sleep regulators, we combined fluorescence cell sorting and RNA-seq in hcrt:EGFP zebrafish. Dozens of Hcrt-neuron–specific transcripts were identified and comprehensive high-resolution imaging revealed gene-specific localization in all or subsets of Hcrt neurons. Clusters of Hcrt-neuron–specific genes are predicted to be regulated by shared transcription factors. These findings show that Hcrt neurons are heterogeneous and that integrative molecular mechanisms orchestrate their diverse functions. The voltage-gated potassium channel Kcnh4a, which is expressed in all Hcrt neurons, was silenced by the CRISPR-mediated gene inactivation system. The mutant kcnh4a (kcnh4a-/-) larvae showed reduced sleep time and consolidation, specifically during the night, suggesting that Kcnh4a regulates sleep.
Method of preparing emergency medicine residents for giving legal depositions
Authors: Hughes Mary J , Teitelbaum Howard , Clark Michael R , Omondi Paul , Palmer Charles A , Sutton Ron
Published: October 2015

This study was performed to determine if a simulated legal deposition increases emergency medicine (EM) residents' knowledge, self-confidence, and understanding of a legal deposition. This prospective study included a convenience sample of EM 1-3 residents. A knowledge and a self-assessment pretest weregiven, followed by a didactic session moderated by local attorneys, followed by knowledge and a self-assessment posttest. The total time involved was 2 hours. The mean score on the knowledge pretest was 4.5 and 5.25 on the posttest. Using a paried t-test, the authors found this difference to be statistically signifi:cant. (P < 0.01) Using HoteUing's T2 test, the authors compared presimulation and postsimulation self-assessment questions. The results r~vealed that there was a difference between these scores (P < 0.001). Participants in the deposition significantly improved their self-assessment ranking and knowledge inventory test scores by participating in a simulated legal deposition.
Urticaria and angioedema: Diagnostic and treatment considerations
Authors: Kumar Shashi Am , Martin Bryan L
Published: October 2015

Urticaria and angioedema are common-and commonly frustrating-problems for physicians and patients alike. Patients often are in considerable distress with pruritus and uncomfortable lesions. They are frightened about their condition and frustrated when modem medicine cannot pinpoint the cause of the symptoms. Both urticaria and angioedema may be categorized as acute and chronic conditions. The dividing line between acute and chronic forms is relatively arbitrarily set at 6 weeks. A thorough history and physical examination may provide clues to the underlying cause, but in the majority of patients, the cause is rarely identified. One is more likely to discover the cause of acute than of chronic urticaria. A multitude of laboratory tests can be performed, but they often do not provide a diagnosis. It is not appropriate to do a large "screening" battery oflaboratory tests. The dermal mast cells and their mediators playa central role in chronic urticaria. Chronic urticaria may have an autoimmune aspect. Recent evidence reveals that 50% of patients with chronic urticaria have a cutaneous autoimmune disorder mediated by autoantibodies to the high-affinity IgE receptor on mast cells. Biopsy may be necessary and may help with treatment.
Contact dermatitis: Evaluation and treatment
Authors: Martin Bruce G
Published: October 2015

Contact dermatitis is a common condition that can be categorized as irritant dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis. Although each of these conditions may have a similar presentation, allergic contact dermatitis is immunologically mediated, whereas irritant contact dermatitis is not. Contact dermatitis can be acute, subacute, or chronic, and each of these phases may progress into the next. Almost anysubstance may induce a cutaneous reaction, depending on its concentration, the duration of contact, and the condition of the contacted skin. It is estimated that there are more than 6 million chemicals in the environment; approximately 3000 are potential sensitizers. A careful history may identify the responsible agent. If the contactant is identified and eliminated, the contact dermatitis can be a self-limited,mild condition. H the exposure is not discontinued, a cycle of itching, scratching, and skin disruption occurs, which leads to chronic changes in the skin. The history of presentation, including occupational exposures, and distribution of the rash are important in identifying the offending agent. More severe cases may require more extensive evaluation, possibly including patch testing, to determine the offending agent. This article reviews treatment, including antihistamines, topical and oral steroids, physical measures such as cold water compresses, and the treatment of secondary infection.
Nodes with high centrality in protein interaction networks are responsible for driving signaling pathways in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Abedi Maryam , Gheisari Yousof
Published: October 2015

In spite of huge efforts, chronic diseases remain an unresolved problem in medicine. Systems biology could assist to develop more efficient therapies through providing quantitative holistic sights to these complex disorders. In this study, we have re-analyzed a microarray dataset to identify critical signaling pathways related to diabetic nephropathy. GSE1009 dataset was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus database and the gene expression profile of glomeruli from diabetic nephropathy patients and those from healthy individuals were compared. The protein-protein interaction network for differentially expressed genes was constructed and enriched. In addition, topology of the network was analyzed to identify the genes with high centrality parameters and then pathway enrichment analysis was performed. We found 49 genes to be variably expressed between the two groups. The network of these genes had few interactions so it was enriched and a network with 137 nodes was constructed. Based on different parameters, 34 nodes were considered to have high centrality in this network. Pathway enrichment analysis with these central genes identified 62 inter-connected signaling pathways related to diabetic nephropathy. Interestingly, the central nodes were more informative for pathway enrichment analysis compared to all network nodes and also 49 differentially expressed genes. In conclusion, we here show that central nodes in protein interaction networks tend to be present in pathways that co-occur in a biological state. Also, this study suggests a computational method for inferring underlying mechanisms of complex disorders from raw high-throughput data.
Home range and use of diurnal shelters by the Etendeka round-eared sengi, a newly discovered Namibian endemic desert mammal
Authors: Rathbun Galen B. , Dumbacher John P.
Published: October 2015

To understand habitat use by the newly described Etendeka round-eared sengi (Macroscelides micus) in northwestern Namibia, we radio-tracked five individuals for nearly a month. Home ranges (100% convex polygons) in the rocky desert habitat were remarkably large (mean 14.9 ha) when compared to sengi species in more mesic habitats (<1.5 ha). The activity pattern ofM. micuswas strictly nocturnal, which contrasts to the normal diurnal or crepuscular activity of other sengis. The day shelters ofM. micuswere under single rocks and they likely were occupied by single sengis. One tagged sengi used 22 different day shelters during the study. On average, only 7% of the day shelters were used more than once by the five tagged sengis. The shelters were also unusual for a small mammal in that they were unmodified in terms of excavation or nesting material. Shelter entrances were significantly oriented to face south by south west (average 193°), away from the angle of the prevailing midday sun. This suggests that solar radiation is probably an important aspect ofM. micusthermal ecology, similar to other sengis. Compared to published data on other sengis,M. micusgenerally conforms to the unique sengi adaptive syndrome, but with modifications related to its hyper-arid habitat.
Use of Adeno‐Associated and Herpes Simplex Viral Vectors for In Vivo Neuronal Expression in Mice
Authors: Penrod Rachel D. , Wells Audrey M. , Carlezon William A. , Cowan Christopher W.
Published: October 2015

Adeno‐associated viruses and the herpes simplex virus are the two most widely used vectors for the in vivo expression of exogenous genes. Advances in the development of these vectors have enabled remarkable temporal and spatial control of gene expression. This unit provides methods for storing, delivering, and verifying expression of adeno‐associated and herpes simplex viruses in the adult mouse brain. It also describes important considerations for experiments using in vivo expression of these viral vectors, including serotype and promoter selection, as well as timing of expression. Additional protocols are provided that describe methods for preliminary experiments to determine the appropriate conditions for in vivo delivery. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Transcriptome‐Wide Identification of Pseudouridine Modifications Using Pseudo‐seq
Authors: Carlile Thomas M. , Rojas‐Duran Maria F. , Gilbert Wendy V.
Published: October 2015

A diverse array of post‐transcriptional modifications is found in RNA molecules from all domains of life. While the locations of RNA modifications are well characterized in abundant noncoding RNAs, modified sites in less abundant mRNAs are just beginning to be discovered. Recent work has revealed hundreds of previously unknown and dynamically regulated pseudouridines (Ψ) in mRNAs from diverse organisms. This unit describes Pseudo‐seq, an efficient, high‐resolution method for identification of Ψs genome‐wide. This unit includes methods for isolation of RNA from S. cerevisiae, preparation of Pseudo‐seq libraries from RNA samples, and identification of sites of pseudouridylation from the sequencing data. Pseudo‐seq is applicable to any organism or cell type, facilitating rapid identification of novel pseudouridylation events. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Laser Microdissection–Mediated Isolation and In Vitro Transcriptional Amplification of Plant RNA
Authors: Chandran Divya , Scanlon Michael J. , Ohtsu Kazuhiro , Timmermans Marja C.P. , Schnable Patrick S. , Wildermuth Mary C.
Published: October 2015

Laser microdissection of cells allows for isolation of specific cells of interest for downstream analyses including transcriptional profiling. Plant cells present unique challenges for laser microdissection due to their cellulosic cell walls and large vacuoles. Here we present protocols for plant tissue preparation, laser microdissection of select plant cells, and linear amplification of RNA from dissected cells. Linear amplification of RNA from dissected cells allows sufficient RNA for subsequent quantitative analysis by RT‐PCR, microarray, or RNA sequencing. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Genome Editing in Human Cells Using CRISPR/Cas Nucleases
Authors: Wyvekens Nicolas , Tsai Shengdar Q. , Joung J. Keith
Published: October 2015

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated (Cas) system has been broadly adopted for highly efficient genome editing in a variety of model organisms and human cell types. Unlike previous genome editing technologies such as zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) and transcription activator−like effector nucleases (TALENs), CRISPR/Cas technology does not require complex protein engineering and can be utilized by any researcher proficient in basic molecular biology and cell culture techniques. This unit describes protocols for design and cloning of vectors expressing single or multiplex gRNAs, for transient transfection of human cell lines, and for quantitation of mutation frequencies by T7 endonuclease I assay. These protocols also include guidance for using two improvements that increase the specificity of CRISPR/Cas nucleases: truncated gRNAs and dimeric RNA‐guided FokI nucleases. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A high‐order numerical study of reactive dissolution in an upwelling heterogeneous mantle: 2. Effect of shear deformation
Authors: Baltzell Conroy , Parmentier E. M. , Liang Yan , Tirupathi Seshu
Published: October 2015

High‐porosity dunite channels produced by orthopyroxene dissolution may provide pathways for orthopyroxene‐undersaturated melt generated in the deep mantle to reach shallower depth without extensive chemical reequilibration with surrounding mantle. Previous studies have considered these high‐porosity channels and melt localization in the presence of a uniform upwelling mantle flow through the process of melt‐rock reaction as well as shear deformation, but not both simultaneously. In this Part 2 of a numerical study of high‐porosity melt and dunite channel formation during reactive dissolution, we considered the effect of shear deformation on channel distribution and channel geometry in an upwelling and viscously compacting mantle column. We formulated a high‐order numerical experiment using conditions similar to those in Part 1, but with an additional prescribed horizontal shearing component in the solid matrix, as could be present in flowing mantle beneath spreading centers. Our focus was to examine orthopyroxene dissolution to determine the behavior of dunite formation and its interaction with melt flow field, by varying the upwelling and shear rate, orthopyroxene solubility gradient, and domain height. Introduction of shearing tilts the developing dunite, causing asymmetry in the orthopyroxene gradient between the dunite channels and the surrounding harzburgite. The downwind gradient is sharp, nearly discontinuous, whereas the upwind gradient is more gradual. For higher shear rates, a wave‐like pattern of alternating high and low‐porosity bands form on the downwind side of the channel. The band spacing increases with increasing shear rate, relative melt flow rate, and orthopyroxene solubility gradient, whereas the band angle is independent of solubility gradient and increases with increasing shear rate and decreasing relative melt flow rate. Such features could be observable in the field and provide evidence for mantle shearing. Standing wave‐like patterns of melt fraction also develop on the downwind side with possible implications for the interpretation of seismic velocities in upwelling mantle.
Southern Bay of Bengal currents and salinity intrusions during the northeast monsoon
Authors: Wijesekera H. W. , Jensen T. G. , Jarosz E. , Teague W. J. , Metzger E. J. , Wang D. W. , Jinadasa S. U. P. , Arulananthan K. , Centurioni L. R. , Fernando H. J. S.
Published: October 2015

Shipboard velocity and hydrographic profiles collected in December 2013 along with drifter observations, satellite altimetry, global ocean nowcast/forecast products, and coupled model simulations were used to examine the circulation in the southern Bay of Bengal as part of ongoing international research efforts in the region. The observations captured the southward flowing East India Coastal Current (EICC) off southeast India and east of Sri Lanka. The EICC was approximately 100 km wide, with speeds exceeding 1 m s−1 in the upper 75 m. East of the EICC, a subsurface‐intensified 300 km‐wide, northward current was observed, with maximum speeds as high as 1 m s−1 between 50 m and 75 m. The EICC moved low‐salinity water out of the bay and the subsurface northward flow carried high‐salinity water into the bay during typical northeast monsoon conditions during a time period when the central equatorial Indian Ocean was experiencing a westerly wind burst related to the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) event. While the northward subsurface high‐salinity flow has previously been observed during the southwest monsoon, it was observed during the northeast monsoon. The observations are consistent with northward high‐salinity subsurface flow in numerical model solutions. The analysis suggests that direct forcing along the equator may play a significant role for high‐salinity intrusions east of Sri Lanka.
Seasonality of tropical Pacific decadal trends associated with the 21st century global warming hiatus
Authors: Amaya Dillon J. , Xie Shang‐Ping , Miller Arthur J. , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: October 2015

Equatorial Pacific changes during the transition from a nonhiatus period (pre‐1999) to the present global warming hiatus period (post‐1999) are identified using a combination of reanalysis and observed data sets. Results show increased surface wind forcing has excited significant changes in wind‐driven circulation. Over the last two decades, the core of the Equatorial Undercurrent intensified at a rate of 6.9 cm s−1 decade−1. Similarly, equatorial upwelling associated with the shallow meridional overturning circulation increased at a rate of 2.0 × 10−4 cm s−1 decade−1 in the central Pacific. Further, a seasonal dependence is identified in the sea surface temperature trends and in subsurface dynamics. Seasonal variations are evident in reversals of equatorial surface flow trends, changes in subsurface circulation, and seasonal deepening/shoaling of the thermocline. Anomalous westward surface flow drives cold‐water zonal advection from November to February, leading to surface cooling from December through May. Conversely, eastward surface current anomalies in June–July drive warm‐water zonal advection producing surface warming from July to November. An improved dynamical understanding of how the tropical Pacific Ocean responds during transitions into hiatus events, including its seasonal structure, may help to improve future predictability of decadal climate variations.
A paleoclimate rainfall reconstruction in the Murray‐Darling Basin (MDB), Australia: 1. Evaluation of different paleoclimate archives, rainfall networks, and reconstruction techniques
Authors: Ho Michelle , Kiem Anthony S. , Verdon‐Kidd Danielle C.
Published: October 2015

From ∼1997 to 2009 the Murray‐Darling Basin (MDB), Australia's largest water catchment and reputed “food bowl,” experienced a severe drought termed the “Millennium Drought” or “Big Dry” followed by devastating floods in the austral summers of 2010/2011, 2011/2012, and 2012/2013. The magnitude and severity of these extreme events highlight the limitations associated with assessing hydroclimatic risk based on relatively short instrumental records (∼100 years). An option for extending hydroclimatic records is through the use of paleoclimate records. However, there are few in situ proxies of rainfall or streamflow suitable for assessing hydroclimatic risk in Australia and none are available in the MDB. In this paper, available paleoclimate records are reviewed and those of suitable quality for hydroclimatic risk assessments are used to develop preinstrumental information for the MDB. Three different paleoclimate reconstruction techniques are assessed using two instrumental rainfall networks: (1) corresponding to rainfall at locations where rainfall‐sensitive Australian paleoclimate archives currently exist and (2) corresponding to rainfall at locations identified as being optimal for explaining MDB rainfall variability. It is shown that the optimized rainfall network results in a more accurate model of MDB rainfall compared to reconstructions based on rainfall at locations where paleoclimate rainfall proxies currently exist. This highlights the importance of first identifying key locations where existing and as yet unrealized paleoclimate records will be most useful in characterizing variability. These results give crucial insight as to where future investment and research into developing paleoclimate proxies for Australia could be most beneficial, with respect to better understanding instrumental, preinstrumental and potential future variability in the MDB.
Linking age, survival, and transit time distributions
Authors: Calabrese Salvatore , Porporato Amilcare
Published: October 2015

Although the concepts of age, survival, and transit time have been widely used in many fields, including population dynamics, chemical engineering, and hydrology, a comprehensive mathematical framework is still missing. Here we discuss several relationships among these quantities by starting from the evolution equation for the joint distribution of age and survival, from which the equations for age and survival time readily follow. It also becomes apparent how the statistical dependence between age and survival is directly related to either the age dependence of the loss function or the survival‐time dependence of the input function. The solution of the joint distribution equation also allows us to obtain the relationships between the age at exit (or death) and the survival time at input (or birth), as well as to stress the symmetries of the various distributions under time reversal. The transit time is then obtained as a sum of the age and survival time, and its properties are discussed along with the general relationships between their mean values. The special case of steady state case is analyzed in detail. Some examples, inspired by hydrologic applications, are presented to illustrate the theory with the specific results.
A measurement‐based approach to designing fault‐tolerant controllers for multivariable systems
Authors: Kallakuri Pavana Sirisha , Keel Lee H. , Bhattacharyya Shankar P.
Published: October 2015

This paper presents new methodologies to design a set of controllers such that every controller in the set preserves closed‐loop stability of a given multivariable plant under prescribed loop failures. The proposed approaches differ from existing techniques in two ways: First, our methods are strictly based on frequency response data of the plant that can be easily measured by experiments. No mathematical models or system identification processes are used. Second, while most control design methods find one controller, we design a set of controllers satisfying the control objective. Two approaches are presented with examples illustrating the respective advantages. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimizing Light‐Harvesting Polymers via Side Chain Engineering
Authors: Liu Peng , Dong Sheng , Liu Feng , Hu Xiaowen , Liu Liqian , Jin Yaocheng , Liu Shengjian , Gong Xiong , Russell Thomas P. , Huang Fei , Cao Yong
Published: October 2015

A series of conjugated polymers using naphtho[1,2‐c:5,6‐c]bis[1,2,5]thiadiazole and benzodithiophene alternating backbone is synthesized to investigate the effect of side chain substitution on conjugated donor–acceptor polymer on electronic, morphological, and photovoltaic properties. It is found that light absorption and frontier energy levels of the resultant polymers are strongly affected by the side chains. The thin film morphology, crystal structure, crystallinity, and orientation also depend on the side chains; the side chain type affects more in the π–π stacking direction, while the side chain density plays a significant role in the lamellar packing direction. The thickness of the active layer also influences the performance of the solar cells with some materials showing enhanced performance with thicker active layers. The best solar cell device in this study has power conversion efficiencies of 8.14%, among the highest in materials of similar structure.
Supramolekulare Assays zur Lokalisation von Enzymaktivität durch Verdrängungs‐induzierte Änderungen in der Magnetisierungstransfer‐NMR‐Spektroskopie mit hyperpolarisiertem 129Xe
Authors: Schnurr Matthias , Sloniec‐Myszk Jagoda , Döpfert Jörg , Schröder Leif , Hennig Andreas
Published: October 2015

Reversibel gebundenes Xenon ist ein empfindlicher Reporter für die NMR‐Spektroskopie und MRT, dessen Resonanzfrequenz durch die chemische Umgebung des Wirtmoleküls beeinflusst wird. Die molekulare Bildgebung von Enzymaktivität ist ein vielversprechender Ansatz zur Identifizierung von Krankheiten, allerdings sind aktuelle Konzepte für Xe‐Biosensoren insofern eingeschränkt, als dass die Konvertierung des Substrates gewöhnlich nur einen geringen Einfluss auf die chemische Verschiebung von Xe innerhalb der maßgeschneiderten Kavität hat. Wir nutzen nun die Fähigkeit des Produktes der enzymatischen Reaktion, selbst an die makrocyclischen Wirtmoleküle CB6 und CB7 zu binden und dabei Xe zu verdrängen. Diese Methode eignet sich dazu, auf Basis von Änderungen des Magnetisierungstransfers von hyperpolarisiertem Xe unter verschiedenen Sättigungsbedingungen Bereiche mit Enzymaktivität abzubilden.
Synthesis of Triborylalkenes from Terminal Alkynes by Iridium‐Catalyzed Tandem CH Borylation and Diboration
Authors: Lee Chun‐I , Shih Wei‐Chun , Zhou Jia , Reibenspies Joseph H. , Ozerov Oleg V.
Published: October 2015

A two‐step reaction to convert terminal alkynes into triborylalkenes is reported. In the first step, the terminal alkyne and pinacolborane (HBpin) are converted into an alkynylboronate, which is catalyzed by an iridium complex supported by a SiNN pincer ligand. In the second step, treatment of the reaction mixture with CO generates a new catalyst which mediates dehydrogenative diboration of alkynylboronate with pinacolborane. The mechanism of the diboration remains unclear but it does not proceed via intermediacy of hydroboration products or via B2pin2.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride Polymers toward Sustainable Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Zheng Yun , Lin Lihua , Wang Bo , Wang Xinchen
Published: October 2015

As a promising two‐dimensional conjugated polymer, graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) has been utilized as a low‐cost, robust, metal‐free, and visible‐light‐active photocatalyst in the field of solar energy conversion. This Review mainly describes the latest advances in g‐C3N4 photocatalysts for water splitting. Their application in CO2 conversion, organosynthesis, and environmental purification is also briefly discussed. The methods to modify the electronic structure, nanostructure, crystal structure, and heterostructure of g‐C3N4, together with correlations between its structure and performance are illustrated. Perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the future exploration of g‐C3N4 photocatalysts are provided. This Review will promote the utilization of g‐C3N4 materials in the fields of photocatalysis, energy conversion, environmental remediation, and sensors.
Supramolecular Assays for Mapping Enzyme Activity by Displacement‐Triggered Change in Hyperpolarized 129Xe Magnetization Transfer NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Schnurr Matthias , Sloniec‐Myszk Jagoda , Döpfert Jörg , Schröder Leif , Hennig Andreas
Published: October 2015

Reversibly bound Xe is a sensitive NMR and MRI reporter with its resonance frequency being influenced by the chemical environment of the host. Molecular imaging of enzyme activity presents a promising approach for disease identification, but current Xe biosensing concepts are limited since substrate conversion typically has little impact on the chemical shift of Xe inside tailored cavities. Herein, we exploit the ability of the product of the enzymatic reaction to bind itself to the macrocyclic hosts CB6 and CB7 and thereby displace Xe. We demonstrate the suitability of this method to map areas of enzyme activity through changes in magnetization transfer with hyperpolarized Xe under different saturation scenarios.
Rhodium‐catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of α‐Dehydroamino Ketones: A General Approach to Chiral α‐amino Ketones
Authors: Gao Wenchao , Wang Qingli , Xie Yun , Lv Hui , Zhang Xumu
Published: October 2015

Rhodium/DuanPhos‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of aliphatic α‐dehydroamino ketones has been achieved and afforded chiral α‐amino ketones in high yields and excellent enantioselectives (up to 99 % ee), which could be reduced further to chiral β‐amino alcohols by LiAlH(tBuO)3 with good yields. This protocol provides a readily accessible route for the synthesis of chiral α‐amino ketones and chiral β‐amino alcohols.
Frei Otto – Internationaler Repräsentant der deutschen Architektur
Authors: Nerdinger Winfried
Published: October 2015

Dieser Beitrag ist dem im März 2015 verstorbenen Frei Otto gewidmet. Der Artikel ist Teil einer dreigliedrigen Reihe, die das Wirken von Frei Otto im historischen Kontext verankert und die seine Bedeutung für aktuelle und zukünftige Forschungen und Entwicklungen aufzeigt.
Development of Hydrogel Lenses with Surface‐immobilized PEG Layers to Reduce Protein Adsorption
Authors: Jee Jun‐Pil , Kim Ho‐Joong
Published: October 2015

This paper describes the synthesis and characterization of a series of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA)‐based hydrogel lenses coated with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains. A novel tri‐branched PEG‐substituted hydrazide is synthesized, which imparts densely packed, covalently bound PEG layers on hydrogels, to determine whether branching provides improved coverage of the lens surface, thereby reducing protein adsorption. Surface modification of hydrogels with PEG was performed via amide‐coupling reactions between PEG‐substituted hydrazide and the pHEMA matrix. Protein adsorption, water content, optical transparency, and surface properties of the hydrogels were investigated. The hydrogels exhibited transmittance of >90% and improved surface hydrophilicity. Notably, the amount of lysozyme adsorbed on tri‐branched PEG‐coated hydrogels decreased significantly compared to the amount adsorbed onto the surface of control and linear PEG‐coated hydrogels. These results provide insight into the mechanism by which PEGs reduce lysozyme adsorption and suggest that PEG coating may offer an intriguing potential for ophthalmic biomaterials as well as protein‐resistant devices.
Metabolic profile of phillyrin in rats obtained by UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS
Authors: Wang Hairong , Zhang Xiaoxu , Jia Peipei , Zhang Yanfen , Tang Siwen , Wang Hongtao , Li Song , Yu Xinluan , Li Yingfei , Zhang Lantong
Published: October 2015

Forsythia suspensa Vahl (Oleaceae) is an important original plant in traditional Chinese medicine. The air‐dried fruits of Forsythia suspensa have long been used to relieve respiratory symptoms. Phillyrin is one of the main chemical constituent of Forsythia suspensa. A clear understanding of the metabolism of phillyrin is very important in rational clinical use and pharmacological research. In this study, the metabolism of phillyrin in rat was investigated for the first time using an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) method. Bile, urine and feces were collected from rats after single‐dose (10 mg/kg) orally administered phillyrin. Liquid–liquid extraction and ultrasonic extraction were used to prepare samples. UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS analysis of the phillyrin samples showed that phillyrin was converted to a major metabolite, M26, which underwent deglucosidation, further dehydration and desaturation. A total of 34 metabolites were detected including 30 phase I and four phase II metabolites. The conjugation types and structure skeletons of the metabolites were preliminarily determined. Moreover, 28 new metabolites were reported for the first time. The main biotransformation route of phillyrin was identified as hydrolysis, oxidation and sulfation. These findings enhance our understanding of the metabolism and the real active structures of phillyrin. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnostic cutoff for pressure drop coefficient in relation to fractional flow reserve and coronary flow reserve: A Patient‐Level Analysis
Authors: Kolli Kranthi K. , van de Hoef Tim P. , Effat Mohamed A. , Banerjee Rupak K. , Peelukhana Srikara V. , Succop Paul , Leesar Massoud A. , Imran Arif , Piek Jan J. , Helmy Tarek A.
Published: October 2015

Objectives and Background

Functional assessment of intermediate coronary stenosis during cardiac catheterization is conducted using diagnostic parameters like fractional flow reserve (FFR), coronary flow reserve (CFR), hyperemic stenosis resistance index (HSR), and hyperemic microvascular resistance (HMR). CDP (ratio of pressure drop across a stenosis to distal dynamic pressure), a nondimensional index derived from fundamental fluid dynamic principles, based on a combination of intracoronary pressure, and flow measurements may improve the functional assessment of coronary lesion severity.

Methods

Patient‐level data pertaining to 350 intracoronary pressure and flow measurements across coronary stenoses was assessed to evaluate CFR, FFR, HSR, HMR, and CDP. CDP was calculated as (ΔP)/(0.5 × ρ × APV2). The density of blood (ρ) was assumed to be 1.05 g/cm3. The correlation of current diagnostic parameters (CFR, FFR, HSR, and HMR) with CDP was evaluated. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to identify the optimal cut‐off point of CDP, corresponding to the clinically used cut‐off values (FFR = 0.80 and CFR = 2.0).

Results

CDP correlated significantly with FFR (r = 0.81, P < 0.05) and had significant diagnostic efficiency (ROC‐area under curve of 86%), specificity (72%) and sensitivity (85%) at FFR < 0.8. The corresponding cut‐off value for CDP to detect FFR < 0.8 was at CDP>25.4. CDP also correlated significantly (r = 0.98, P < 0.05) with epicardial‐specific parameter, HSR.

Conclusions

CDP, a functional parameter based on both intracoronary pressure and flow measurements, has close agreement (area under ROC curve = 86%) with FFR, the frequently used method of evaluating stenosis severity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Salvaging lowermost deployment of an acurate device during transcatheter aortic valve replacement with balloon and lasso pull techniques
Authors: Corcione Nicola , Biondi‐Zoccai Giuseppe , Giordano Arturo
Published: October 2015

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), also known as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), is being used with increasing frequency in patients with severe aortic stenosis at high or prohibitive surgical risk. A number of devices are becoming available for TAVR, and competence in using them is mandatory to maximize the safety and efficacy of TAVR, while individualizing device selection in keeping with patient features. The ACURATE TF is a novel promising device for transfemoral TAVR. However, its peculiar features may require additional maneuvers in case of complications. We hereby report the case of a patient undergoing transfemoral TAVR with the ACURATE TF device, in whom lowermost deployment was complicated by massive aortic regurgitation. With two separate remedial actions, the balloon pull and lasso techniques, we were able to pull back the device and significantly reduce post‐TAVR aortic regurgitation. Awareness of this complication and the possible use of these two techniques may increase the safety and efficacy of TAVR with this and other new devices. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation for paradoxical low‐flow low‐gradient aortic stenosis patients
Authors: Debry Nicolas , Sudre Arnaud , Amr Gilles , Delhaye Cédric , Schurtz Guillaume , Montaigne David , Koussa Mohamad , Modine Thomas
Published: October 2015

Objectives

We compared the outcomes of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in three different aortic stenosis syndromes: paradoxical low‐flow low‐gradient aortic stenosis (PLFLG), high‐gradient aortic stenosis (HGAS), and low ejection fraction low‐gradient severe aortic stenosis (LEF‐LG).

Background

Outcomes for PLFLG patients after TAVI procedure are not well known.

Methods

Between 2010 and 2013, patients with severe (indexed aortic valve area iAVA≤0.6 cm2/m2) symptomatic aortic stenosis were consecutively referred to our institution for TAVI because of multiple comorbidities and excessive surgical risk. About 262 patients were split into three groups as following, PLFLG: mean gradient MG≤40 mm Hg, stroke volume index SVI≤35 mL/m2, ejection fraction EF≥55%, valvuloarterial impedance Zva>4.5 mm Hg/mL/m2, maximal aortic jet velocity MaxV<4 m/s; LEF‐LG: MG≤40 mm Hg, MaxV<4 m/s, EF≤50%, SVI≤35 mL/m2; and HGAS: MaxV>4 m/s, MG>40 mm Hg, EF>55%. The primary endpoint of our study was to evaluate mid‐term global and cardiovascular mortalities; secondary endpoints included recommended VARC‐2 variables.

Results

PLFLG (n = 31) mid‐term survival was similar to HGAS (n = 172) (mean follow‐up = 13.2 months [4.6–26]). Conversely LEF‐LG patients (n = 59) displayed significant higher rates of all‐cause (P = 0.01) and cardiovascular mortalities (P = 0.05). Postprocedural outcomes (VARC‐2 criteria) were similar in the PLFLG and HGAS groups except regarding major bleeding (P = 0.02), while the LEF‐LG group had more congestive heart failure and a higher BNP before discharge (both P < 0.001) than the other groups. 30‐days deaths were significantly more frequent in LEF‐LG and PLFLG in comparison to HGAS (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

As opposed to LEF‐LG patients, mid‐term prognosis after TAVI procedure in PLFLG patients is similar to HGAS patients despite higher perioperative mortality. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Structure and Luminescence Characteristics of a Novel Red Phosphor NaLa9(GeO4)6O2: Eu3+ for Light Emitting Diodes and Field Emission Displays.
Authors: Cao Yaxin , Zhu Ge , Wang Yuhua
Published: October 2015

NaLa9(GeO4)6O2:xEu3+ (x = 0—0.11) phosphors are prepared by firing a stoichiometric mixture of Na2CO3, La2O3, Eu2O3, and GeO2 in air (1.
ChemInform Abstract: On the True Indium Content of In‐Filled Skutterudites.
Authors: Visnow Eduard , Heinrich Christophe P. , Schmitz Andreas , de Boor Johannes , Leidich Patrick , Klobes Benedikt , Hermann Raphael P. , Mueller Wolf Eckhard , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: October 2015

High‐purity InxCo4Sb12 (x = 0.12, 0.15, 0.18, 0.20) are prepared by first reacting Co and Sb to form CoSb3 (evacuated quartz tubes, 700 °C, 12 h) and secondly, annealing of In and CoSb3 (evacuated quartz tubes, 700 °C, 48 h).
ChemInform Abstract: High‐Curie‐Temperature Ferromagnetism in (Sc,Fe)F3 Fluorides and Its Dependence on Chemical Valence.
Authors: Chen Jun , et al.
Published: October 2015

(Sc1‐xFex)F3 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1) are prepared by solid state reaction of a pressed pellet of stoichiometric amounts of Sc2O3, Fe2O3 and NH4HF2 (Pt crucible, 600 °C, 5 h; slow cooling to 25 °C).
ChemInform Abstract: Popping of Graphite Oxide: Application in Preparing Metal Nanoparticle Catalysts.
Authors: Gao Yongjun , Chen Xi , Zhang Jiaguang , Asakura Hiroyuki , Tanaka Tsunehiro , Teramura Kentaro , Ma Ding , Yan Ning
Published: October 2015

A popcorn‐like transformation of graphite oxide (GO; obtained by a modified Hummers method) into large‐volume graphene oxide sheets (PGO) is achieved by heating differently oxidized graphite granules (quartz tube, 190‐200 °C, 30‐60 sec).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Optical Property of the Quaternary Semiconductor La4Cd4In2S13.
Authors: Zhao Hua‐Jun
Published: October 2015

The title compound is prepared by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of the elements (evacuated silica tube, 850 °C, 4 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Potassium, Cesium, and Ammonium Peroxogermanates with Inorganic Hexanuclear Peroxo Bridged Germanium Anion Isolated from Aqueous Solution.
Authors: Medvedev Alexander G. , Mikhaylov Alexey A. , Churakov Andrei V. , Vener Mikhail V. , Tripol'skaya Tatiana A. , Cohen Shmuel , Lev Ovadia , Prikhodchenko Petr V.
Published: October 2015

K6 [Ge6(μ‐O2)6(μ‐O)6 (OH)6]·14H2O (I), Cs4.2(NH4)1.8 [Ge6(μ‐O2)6(μ‐O)6 (OH)6]·8H2O (II), and K2.4(NH4)3.6 [Ge6(μ‐O2)6(μ‐O)6 (OH)6]·6H2O (III) are isolated from K or Cs hydroxogermanate solutions by addition of aq.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Structure of a New Layered Potassium Sodiostannate.
Authors: Butova Vera V. , Shukaev Igor L.
Published: October 2015

K0.72Na0.24Sn0.76O2 is prepared by firing pellets of pre‐reacted SnO2, Na2SnO3, and KOH in air (1000 °C, 2.5 h).
ChemInform Abstract: A Catalytic Asymmetric Carbonyl—Ene Reaction of β,γ‐Unsaturated α‐Ketoesters with 5‐Methyleneoxazolines.
Authors: Luo Weiwei , Zhao Jiannan , Ji Jie , Lin Lili , Liu Xiaohua , Mei Hongjiang , Feng Xiaoming
Published: October 2015

Moreover, the simple α‐keto ester (X) can also be converted to the corresponding product (XI).
ChemInform Abstract: Ru(II)—Pheox‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Intramolecular Cyclopropanation of Electron‐Deficient Olefins.
Authors: Nakagawa Yoko , Chanthamath Soda , Shibatomi Kazutaka , Iwasa Seiji
Published: October 2015

This procedure opens up a route to the syntheses of pharmaceutical and natural products as DCG‐IV (VII), an anticonvulsant agent, and dysibetaine CPa (IX), a marine natural product of pharmacological interest.
ChemInform Abstract: Mn‐Catalyzed Highly Efficient Aerobic Oxidative Hydroxyazidation of Olefins: A Direct Approach to β‐Azido Alcohols.
Authors: Sun Xiang , Li Xinyao , Song Song , Zhu Yuchao , Liang Yu‐Feng , Jiao Ning
Published: October 2015

Azido radical generation employing air as the terminal oxidant is disclosed as the key process for this transformation.
ChemInform Abstract: Silver‐Mediated Oxidative Fluorotrifluoromethylation of Unactivated Alkenes.
Authors: Yu Wei , Xu Xiu‐Hua , Qing Feng‐Ling
Published: October 2015

The title reaction proceeds with high regioselectivity under mild conditions and shows good functional group tolerance.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Mono‐Amination of Dichlorodiazines.
Authors: Sengmany Stephane , Lebre Julie , Le Gall Erwan , Leonel Eric
Published: October 2015

2,4‐ And 4,6‐dichloropyrimidine, 3,6‐pyridazine and 2,6‐pyrazine are monoaminated with a diverse range of aliphatic primary and secondary amines including cyclic ones as well as aniline, pyrrole, and imidazole derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Photochemical Direct Perfluoroalkylation of Phenols.
Authors: Filippini Giacomo , Nappi Manuel , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: October 2015

Perfluoroalkyl iodides (II) are used in the alkylation of phenols (I), (IV), (VI), (VIII), and (X) under irradiation with compact fluorescent light to give the corresponding products with interesting regioselectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Formal Hydroacylation of Allenes Employing Carboxylic Anhydrides and Hydrosilanes.
Authors: Fujihara Tetsuaki , Hosomi Takuro , Cong Cong , Hosoki Tomoya , Terao Jun , Tsuji Yasushi
Published: October 2015

Title reaction provides access to α,β‐unsaturated ketones in a highly regio‐ and E/Z‐selective manner.
ChemInform Abstract: Ru(II)‐Catalyzed β‐Carboline Directed C—H Arylation and Isolation of Its Cycloruthenated Intermediates.
Authors: Rajkumar Subramani , Karthik Shanmugam , Gandhi Thirumanavelan
Published: October 2015

The arylation of aryl‐β‐carbolines (I) with aryl bromides gives rise to diarylated derivatives (III) as main or sole reaction products, whilst analogous reactions of substrates (IV) and (VI) afford monoarylated products (V) and (VII).
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective Peterson Olefinations from Bench‐Stable Reagents and N‐Phenyl Imines.
Authors: Das Manas , Manvar Atul , Jacolot Maiwenn , Blangetti Marco , Jones Roderick C. , O'Shea Donal F.
Published: October 2015

A new general two‐step approach for the synthesis of bench‐stable α,α‐bis(trimethylsilyl)toluenes and tris(trimethylsilane) is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron‐Catalyzed Esterification of Benzyl C—H Bonds to Form α‐Keto Benzyl Esters.
Authors: He Yue , Mao Jincheng , Rong Guangwei , Yan Hong , Zhang Guoqi
Published: October 2015

A novel protocol for the reaction of benzoylformic acids with benzyl derivatives to give a variety of α‐keto benzoyl esters in good yields is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: Zinc Monoglycerolate as a Catalyst for the Conversion of 1,3‐ and Higher Diols to Diurethanes.
Authors: Kulasegaram Sanjitha , Shaheen Uzma , Turney Terence W. , Gates Will P. , Patti Antonio F.
Published: October 2015

Zinc monoglycerolate is used as a homogeneous catalyst in the transformation of 1,2‐ and higher order diols to yield cyclic carbonates or linear diurethane derivatives selectively in good yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Aza‐Henry Reaction Using DMSO as a Solvent.
Authors: Isobe Toshihiro , Kato Atsuki , Oriyama Takeshi
Published: October 2015

Using DMSO under the influence of molecular sieves 4Å, the aza‐Henry reaction of various N‐tosylimines with nitroalkanes proceeds smoothly to afford β‐nitroamines in high yields.