bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
XAS and XES Techniques Shed Light on the Dark Side of Ziegler–Natta Catalysts: Active‐Site Generation
Authors: Groppo Elena , Gallo Erik , Seenivasan Kalaivani , Lomachenko Kirill A. , Sommazzi Anna , Bordiga Silvia , Glatzel Pieter , van Silfhout Roelof , Kachatkou Anton , Bras Wim , Lamberti Carlo
Published: February 2015

The local structure and the electronic properties of the active Ti sites in heterogeneous Ziegler–Natta catalysts, generated in situ by interaction of the precatalyst with different Al‐alkyl activators, were investigated by combining X‐ray absorption and valence‐to‐core X‐ray emission spectroscopy (XAS and vtc‐XES), coupled with UV/Vis, FTIR, and DFT theoretical calculations. Irrespective of the activator used, the active system was found to be a highly dispersed TiCl3‐like phase in which the Ti sites are surrounded, not only by bridged chlorine ligands (with the same bond length of bulk TiCl3), but also by terminal chlorine ligands, at a much shorter distance. These results set Ziegler–Natta catalysts in the category of complex nanomaterials. Despite the observation that the investigated catalysts polymerize ethylene, cutting‐edge XAS and XES techniques do not yet offer unequivocal proof for the presence of any alkyl chain attached to the Ti sites, as a consequence of the small fraction of the active sites.
Copper‐Mediated Aromatic Radiofluorination Revisited: Efficient Production of PET Tracers on a Preparative Scale
Authors: Zlatopolskiy Boris D. , Zischler Johannes , Krapf Philipp , Zarrad Fadi , Urusova Elizaveta A. , Kordys Elena , Endepols Heike , Neumaier Bernd
Published: February 2015

Two novel methods for copper‐mediated aromatic nucleophilic radiofluorination were recently reported. Evaluation of these methods reveals that, although both are efficient in small‐scale experiments, they are inoperative for the production of positron emission tomography (PET) tracers. Since high base content turned out to be responsible for low radiochemical conversions, a “low base” protocol has been developed which affords 18F‐labeled arenes from diaryliodonium salts and aryl pinacol boronates in reasonable yields. Furthermore, implementation of our “minimalist” approach to the copper‐mediated [18F]‐fluorination of (mesityl)(aryl)iodonium salts allows the preparation of 18F‐labeled arenes in excellent RCCs. The novel radiofluorination method circumvents time‐consuming azeotropic drying and avoids the utilization of base and other additives, such as cryptands. Furthermore, this procedure enables the production of clinically relevant PET tracers; [18F]FDA, 4‐[18F]FPhe, and [18F]DAA1106 are obtained in good isolated radiochemical yields. Additionally, [18F]DAA1106 has been evaluated in a rat stroke model and demonstrates excellent potential for visualization of translocator protein 18 kDa overexpression associated with neuroinflammation after ischemic stroke.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemical Modification and Energetically Favorable Atomic Disorder of a Layered Thermoelectric Material TmCuTe2 Leading to High Performance.
Authors: Lin Hua , Chen Hong , Shen Jin‐Ni , Chen Ling , Wu Li‐Ming
Published: February 2015

TmCuTe2 is prepared by heating stoichiometric amounts of the elements (SiO2 crucible in evacuated quartz tube, 723 K, 1 d, 2.
ChemInform Abstract: Rational Design of Lower‐Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Cathodes via Nanotailoring of Co‐Assembled Composite Structures.
Authors: Lee Kang Taek , Lidie Ashley A. , Yoon Hee Sung , Wachsman Eric D.
Published: February 2015

The nanocomposite La0.8Sr0.2MnO3/Bi1.6 Er0.4O3 cathode is obtained by an in situ co‐assembly process through uniquely conjugated reverse‐strike coprecipitation and glycine‐nitrate combustion at extremely low temperature (<300 °C).
ChemInform Abstract: Copper Incorporated CuxMo6S8 (x ≥ 1) Chevrel‐Phase Cathode Materials Synthesized by Chemical Intercalation Process for Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries.
Authors: Woo Sang‐Gil , Yoo Jong‐Yeol , Cho Woosuk , Park Min‐Sik , Kim Ki Jae , Kim Jae‐Hun , Kim Jeom‐Soo , Kim Young‐Jun
Published: February 2015

The title Chevrel phases with x up to x = 1.7 as cathode materials for rechargeable Mg batteries are synthesized by chemical intercalation from stoichiometric mixtures of Mo6S8 powder and Cu metal (80 °C, 36 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Two New Four‐Connected Zeolite‐Like Magnesium Aluminophosphates with Intersecting 8‐Ring Channels.
Authors: Wang Y. Y. , Mu Y. , Sun Y. J. , Li J. Y.
Published: February 2015

Two new Mg‐containing aluminophosphates, (H2pip) [Mg2Al6(PO4)8 (H2O)4] (pip: piperazine) are hydrothermally obtained from gels of overall molar compositions of 1.0Al2O3:0.67MgO:2.91P2O5 :1.7pip:224H2O (I) or 1.0Al2O3:0.67MgO:2.62P2O5 :2.63pip:224H2O (II) differing slightly in the H3PO4 and piperazine amounts (autoclave, 180 °C, 3 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Benzoylation and Henry Reaction Using Reusable Polytopic Bis(oxazoline) Ligands and Copper(II).
Authors: Torres‐Werle Maria , Nano Adela , Maisse‐Francois Aline , Bellemin‐Laponnaz Stephane
Published: February 2015

The method for the asymmetric benzoylation of meso‐hydrobenzoin (I) can also be used for the resolution of rac‐hydrobenzoin using similar conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Ring‐Opening Nucleophilic Addition of Aziridines Through Photoredox Catalyst.
Authors: Sun Hongnan , Yang Chao , Lin Run , Xia Wujiong
Published: February 2015

Visible light induced regioselective ring‐opening of aziridines by nucleophiles provides a convenient access to various 1,2‐bifunctional compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: Syntheses of Acridines and Quinazoline‐2,4(1H,3H)‐dithiones by Rearrangements of N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes of Indazole.
Authors: Schmidt Andreas , Guan Zong , Gjikaj Mimoza
Published: February 2015

N‐Heterocyclic carbenes generated by deprotonation of imidazolium salts (III) with K3PO4 or K2CO3 suffer a rearrangement to acidines in refluxing organic solvents.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Difluoroalkylation of Alkenes by Using Visible Light Photoredox Catalysis.
Authors: Yu Chunghyeon , Iqbal Naeem , Park Sehyun , Cho Eun Jin
Published: February 2015

The chemoselectivity of the title mild reaction is controlled by the choice of the base producing difluoroalkylated alkanes and alkenes.
ChemInform Abstract: Cobalt‐Impregnated Magnetite as General Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Hydroacylation Reaction of Azodicarboxylates.
Authors: Perez Juana M. , Ramon Diego J.
Published: February 2015

In some cases, the Ni‐impregnated magnetite catalyst gives better yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Exploiting the Nucleophilicity of N—H Imines: Synthesis of Enamides from Alkyl Azides and Acid Anhydrides.
Authors: Han Junghoon , Jeon Mina , Pak Han Kyu , Rhee Young Ho , Park Jaiwook
Published: February 2015

Photolysis of azides in the presence of a dimeric Ru‐complex catalyst gives N‐H intermediates, which upon subsequent acylation and isomerization furnish a wide variety of enamide derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: General and Selective Reductive Amination of Carbonyl Compounds Using a Core—Shell Structured Co3O4/NGr@C Catalyst.
Authors: Stemmler Tobias , Westerhaus Felix A. , Surkus Annette‐Enrica , Pohl Marga‐Martina , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: February 2015

The cheap heterogeneous catalyst, core‐shell structured Co3O4 nanocomposite encapsulated with N‐doped graphene, allows an efficient domino reductive amination of carbonyl compounds with nitroarenes.
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Efficient, Ligand‐Free and Recyclable SBA‐15 Supported Cu2O Catalyzed Cyanation of Aryl Iodides with Potassium Hexacyanoferrate(II).
Authors: Yin Wenzhu , Liu Rui , He Guangke , Lv Wangjie , Zhu Hongjun
Published: February 2015

The highly selective supported Cu2O catalyst exhibits wide functional group tolerance.
ChemInform Abstract: Visible Light‐Induced γ‐Alkoxynitrile Synthesis via Three‐Component Alkoxycyanomethylation of Alkenes.
Authors: Yi Hong , Zhang Xu , Qin Chu , Liao Zhixiong , Liu Jie , Lei Aiwen
Published: February 2015

The photolytic three‐component alkoxycyanomethylation of alkenes, bromoacetonitril, and alcohols in the presence of an Ir‐photoredox catalyst is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: HBF4·OEt2: An Efficient Fluorinated Acid Catalyst for the One‐Pot Synthesis of Secondary and Tertiary N‐Homoallylic Carbamates.
Authors: Baishya Gakul , Hazarika Nabajyoti , Sarmah Barnali
Published: February 2015

The advantages of the new method, compared with existing procedures, are reduced reaction times, higher yields, mild reaction conditions, easy scalability and use of readily available catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Conjugated Dienes and Polyenes via Diethyl Phosphite Promoted Carbonyl Olefination.
Authors: Wang Ru , Zhang Songlin
Published: February 2015

The products (II), (V), and (VII) are obtained as mixtures of their E/Z‐isomers, the ratio of which can only be determined for 2‐tolyl substituted α,β‐unsaturated derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: Polymer‐Anchored Copper(II) Complex: An Efficient Reusable Catalyst for the Synthesis of Propargylamines
Authors: Kodicherla Balaswamy , Perumgani Pullaiah C. , Mandapati Mohan Rao
Published: February 2015

via a three‐component coupling reaction
ChemInform Abstract: Oxidative Cyclization Reaction of 2‐Aryl‐Substituted Cinnamates to Form Phenanthrene Carboxylates by Using MoCl5.
Authors: Wehming Kathrin , Schubert Moritz , Schnakenburg Gregor , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: February 2015

The reagent mixture MoCl5/TiCl4 is successfully applied for the oxidative cyclization of α‐aryl substituted cinnamates to the corresponding phenanthrenes.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Construction of Highly Functionalized endo′‐Selective Spiro[pyrrolidin‐2,3′‐oxindoles] via a Regioselective 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction Between 3‐Amino Oxindoles as Azomethine Ylide Precursors and Nitroalkenes.
Authors: Sun Hongbao , Wang Xiaoyan , Chen Yi , Ouyang Liang , Liu Jie , Zhang Yiwen
Published: February 2015

Azomethine ylides, generated in situ from oxindoles and aldehydes undergo 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with nitroalkanes.
ChemInform Abstract: Consecutive Oxygen‐Based Oxidations Convert Amines to α‐Cyanoepoxides.
Authors: Ushakov Dmitry B. , Gilmore Kerry , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: February 2015

The photooxidation of amines in a continuous‐flow reactor followed by treatment of intermediate imines with methyl cyanoacetate or malononitrile leads to desired α‐cyanoepoxides such as (III) and (V).
ChemInform Abstract: N‐Chlorophthalimide as a Mild and Efficient Chlorination Reagent in the Gassman ortho Alkylation of Aromatic Amines. Synthesis of 3‐(Methylthio)oxindoles.
Authors: Cybulski Marcin , Formela Adam , Fokt Izabela
Published: February 2015

The modified mild conditions for Gassman ortho alkylation of aromatic amines allow the isolation of the intermediate α‐amidosulfides (III), which are cyclized to produce 3‐(methylthio)oxindoles.
ChemInform Abstract: [Cp*IrCl2]2‐Catalyzed Cyclization of 2‐Alkynylanilines into Indoles.
Authors: Kumaran Elumalai , Leong Weng Kee
Published: February 2015

For the formation of 2‐trimethylsilylindole a slight modification of the conditions is required.
ChemInform Abstract: I2‐Mediated C3‐Formylation of Indoles by Tertiary Amine and H2O.
Authors: Zhang Bo , Liu Bin , Chen Jianbin , Wang Jiehui , Liu Miaochang
Published: February 2015

Using TMEDA as carbonyl source, I2/Na2CO3‐promoted formylation of N‐alkylated as well as free indoles gives 3‐formylated indoles regioselectively under tolerance of a broad spectrum of functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Regioselective Synthesis of Novel Oximino Ester‐Containing 1‐Aryl‐4‐chloro‐3‐oxypyrazoles as Potential Fungicides.
Authors: Li Yi , Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Chen Nan‐Qing , Lue Kun‐Zhi , Xiong Xiao‐Hui , Li Jie
Published: February 2015

New compounds (III) are tested for their fungicidal activities against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Gibberella zeae.
ChemInform Abstract: Chromeno[2,3‐c]pyrroles by One‐Pot Multicomponent Domino Addition—Amination Reaction.
Authors: Terzidis Michael A. , Tsiaras Vassilios G. , Drosos Nicolaos M. , Kasapidou Paraskevi M. , Stephanidou‐Stephanatou Julia , Tsoleridis Constantinos A. , Buth Gernot , Kostakis George E.
Published: February 2015

The use of diisopropyl azodicarboxylate instead of the diethyl ester (II) results in lower yields.
ChemInform Abstract: Regiospecific Synthesis of 1‐Trifluoromethylisoquinolines Enabled by Photoredox Somophilic Vinyl Isocyanide Insertion.
Authors: Cheng Yuanzheng , Yuan Xiangai , Jiang Heng , Wang Ruzhi , Ma Jing , Zhang Yan , Yu Shouyun
Published: February 2015

The title reaction is achieved from isocyanides of type (I), (IV), and (VII) with Umemoto′s reagent (II) in the presence of an Ir‐catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Synthesis of Novel Pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidines Using HAp‐Encapsulated‐γ‐Fe2O3 Supported Sulfonic Acid Nanocatalyst under Solvent‐Free Conditions.
Authors: Mohsenimehr Moona , Mamaghani Manouchehr , Shirini Farhad , Sheykhan Mehdi , Moghaddam Fatemeh Azimian
Published: February 2015

Optimum reaction conditions are examined for the three‐component one‐pot reaction of pyrimidine (I), aromatic aldehydes (II), and Meldrum′s acid (III) to afford title compounds (IV).
ChemInform Abstract: Dehydrogenative N‐Incorporation: A Direct Approach to Quinoxaline N‐Oxides under Mild Conditions.
Authors: Chen Feng , Huang Xiaoqiang , Li Xinyao , Shen Tao , Zou Miancheng , Jiao Ning
Published: February 2015

A one‐pot method starting from anisidine (XI) and acetophenone (XII) is also demonstrated.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of N‐Alkyl‐N′‐aryl‐piperazines via Copper‐Catalyzed C—N Bond Formation.
Authors: Yavari Issa , Bayat Mohammad J. , Ghazanfarpour‐Darjani Majid
Published: February 2015

Sequential CuI‐catalyzed alkylation/arylation of DABCO gives the title compounds in yields between 70‐80%.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Trifluoromethylated [1,4]Diazepines from 1,1,1‐Trifluoroalk‐3‐yn‐2‐ones.
Authors: Romanov Alexey R. , Rulev Alexander Yu. , Ushakov Igor A. , Muzalevskiy Vasiliy M. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: February 2015

The target heterocycles are formed under mild conditions in good yields and with high selectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Bioinspired Total Synthesis of Gymnothelignan N.
Authors: Li Huilin , Zhang Yuanyuan , Xie Xingang , Ma Haichen , Zhao Changgui , Zhao Gaoyuan , She Xuegong
Published: February 2015

The total synthesis of the title compound (I) is accomplished in 13 steps and 6.7% overall yield via syn Evans aldol reaction, an intramolecular hydrogenative dehydration reaction, and a phenol oxidative dearomatization/Friedel‐crafts reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Approaches to the Stereoselective Synthesis of (+)‐Lactacystin Utilizing Organocatalytic Reactions.
Authors: Raghavan Sadagopan , Samanta Pradip Kumar
Published: February 2015

Some unsuccessful efforts to find a stereoselective total synthesis of (+)‐lactacystin (I) are described.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Applications of Chiral Allenes in Axial‐to‐Central Chirality Transfer Reactions
Authors: Neff Robynne K. , Frantz Doug E.
Published: February 2015

Review: [73 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: The Reactions of Alkylation, Arylation, Alkenylation, and Alkynylation of Polyfluoroarenes and ‐Hetarenes by Their Aromatic Rings
Authors: Petrova T. D. , Platonov V. E.
Published: February 2015

Review: 344 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Reactions of Acetylenes in Superbasic Media. Recent Advances
Authors: Trofimov B. A. , Schmidt E. Yu.
Published: February 2015

Review: ethynylation and cyclization of aldehydes and ketones as well as C‐, N‐, and O‐vinylation with acetylene in superbasic media; 369 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Chemical Conversion Pathways for Carbohydrates
Authors: Chatterjee Chandrani , Pong Frances , Sen Ayusman
Published: February 2015

Review: 406 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Review of Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Benzo‐Fused Six‐Membered N,N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Kaur Navjeet
Published: February 2015

Review: 125 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Biomineralization‐Inspired Synthesis of Functional Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Materials: Organic Molecular Control of Self‐Organization of Hybrids
Authors: Arakaki Atsushi , Shimizu Katsuhiko , Oda Mayumi , Sakamoto Takeshi , Nishimura Tatsuya , Kato Takashi
Published: February 2015

Review: 140 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Stimuli‐Responsive Polymeric Nanoparticles for Nanomedicine
Authors: Crucho Carina I. C.
Published: February 2015

Review: 131 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: New Cofactor‐Independent Hydration Biocatalysts: Structural, Biochemical, and Biocatalytic Characteristics of Carotenoid and Oleate Hydratases
Authors: Hiseni Aida , Arends Isabel W. C. E. , Otten Linda G.
Published: February 2015

Review: [77 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Hazard Property Classification of Waste According to the Recent Propositions of the EC Using Different Methods
Authors: Hennebert Pierre , van der Sloot Hans A. , Rebischung Flore , Weltens Reinhilde , Geerts Lieve , Hjelmar Ole
Published: February 2015

Review: 24 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Nanostructured Metallic Electrocatalysts for Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Lu Qi , Rosen Jonathan , Jiao Feng
Published: February 2015

Review: [38 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Nanocatalysis I: Synthesis of Metal and Bimetallic Nanoparticles and Porous Oxides and Their Catalytic Reaction Studies
Authors: An Kwangjin , Somorjai Gabor A.
Published: February 2015

Review: 75 refs.
Kontinuierliche Reaktionsführung der selektiven Hydrierung von Benzol zu Cyclohexen in einem Vier‐Phasensystem
Authors: Spod Hendrik , Lucas Martin , Claus Peter
Published: February 2015

Die Produktion von Nylon 6 und Nylon 6.6 basiert derzeit auf der vollständigen Hydrierung von Benzol zu Cyclohexan an Nickel‐ oder Platinkatalysatoren und dessen anschließender Oxidation bei sehr geringen Umsätzen zu einem Cyclohexanol/Cyclohexanon‐Produktgemisch. Dieses wird weiter zu ϵ‐Caprolactam oder Adipinsäure umgesetzt. Eine alternative Reaktionsroute ist die selektive Hydrierung von Benzol zu Cyclohexen und der anschließenden Hydratisierung an sauren Katalysatoren zu Cyclohexanol. Ein Laborverfahren zur selektiven Benzolhydrierung unter Verwendung eines Gas/Flüssig/Flüssig/Fest(G/L/L/S)‐Systems in einem kontinuierlich betriebenen Rührkessel (CSTR) wird vorgestellt.
Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction and E/E′ Ratio as the Strongest Echocardiographic Predictors of Reduced Exercise Capacity After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Fontes‐Carvalho Ricardo , Sampaio Francisco , Teixeira Madalena , Rocha‐Gonçalves Francisco , Gama Vasco , Azevedo Ana , Leite‐Moreira Adelino
Published: February 2015

Background

The mechanisms that determine reduced exercise capacity after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are not fully understood, especially the relative role of left ventricular diastolic and systolic function.

Hypothesis

To evaluate the role of different diastolic and systolic function echocardiographic parameters as predictors of reduced functional capacity in patients after AMI.

Methods

One month after AMI, 225 patients (84% male; mean age, 55.1 ± 10.9 years) were enrolled and underwent detailed echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise test on the same day. Systolic and diastolic function was evaluated by echocardiography according to the latest consensus recommendations, including tissue Doppler evaluation. Exercise capacity was evaluated with peak oxygen consumption (VO2).

Results

Peak VO2 was significantly correlated with early diastolic tissue Doppler velocity (E′) septal (r = 0.42, P < 0.001), E′ lateral (r = 0.35, P < 0.001), septal E/E′ ratio (r = −0.35, P = 0.001), and lateral E/E′ (r = −0.27, P < 0.001). These diastolic function parameters predicted impaired exercise capacity (VO2 <19 mL/kg/min), with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68–0.86, P < 0.001) for septal E/E′. On multivariate analysis, for each unit increase in septal E/E′ ratio there was a −0.35 (95% CI: −0.54 to −0.15) mL/kg/min decrease in peak VO2 independently of age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes. There was a mild correlation between peak VO2 and systolic function parameters (r = 0.17, P = 0.01 with ejection fraction; and r = 0.23, P = 0.02 with lateral systolic tissue Doppler velocity) that persisted after multivariate adjustment.

Conclusions

After AMI, resting diastolic function parameters were the strongest correlates of exercise tolerance. Septal E/E′ ratio was the best echocardiographic predictor of reduced functional capacity.
Deformation and pressure propagation in deep somatic tissue during painful cuff algometry
Authors: Manafi‐Khanian B. , Arendt‐Nielsen L. , Frøkjær J.B. , Graven‐Nielsen T.
Published: February 2015

Background

Cuff algometry is used for quantitative pain assessment although it is not clarified which tissues are actually challenged by the stimulation. This study investigated the mechanical stress and strain distribution in superficial and deep tissues during cuff algometry applied on the lower leg at three different intensities (mild pressure, pain threshold and supra pain threshold).

Methods

A computational three‐dimensional finite element model of the lower leg with three different layers of soft tissue was developed based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) recorded during cuff stimulation. Tissue indentation maps were extracted from the MRI scans and transferred into the model as displacement of boundary condition. In all stimulation conditions, the mean stress of subcutaneous adipose and muscle tissue below the cuff decreased compared with the skin while the mean strain peaked in subcutaneous adipose and decreased in other tissues.

Results

At pain threshold stimulation intensity, the mean muscle stress was 2.9% of mean skin stress and the mean muscle strain was 55.1% of mean strain in adipose layer. The mean stress and strain increased by 30.4% and 27.1%, respectively, in muscle tissue from painful to supra pain threshold stimulation. The stress and strain was mainly focused around the bones and superficially under cuff.

Conclusions

This study shows the better capability of cuff algometry for stimulation of deep somatic tissue in terms of generation of mechanical stress and strain in contrast to the more superficial muscle tissue previously demonstrated to be strained by single‐point pressure algometry.
The effect of seismic uplift on the shell stresses of liquid‐storage tanks
Authors: Ormeño Miguel , Larkin Tam , Chouw Nawawi
Published: February 2015

Previous theoretical studies have shown that tank uplift, that is, separation of the tank base from the foundation, generally reduces the base shear and the base moment. However, there is a paucity of experimental investigations concerning the effect of uplift on the tank wall stresses, which is the principal parameter that controls the seismic design of liquid‐storage tanks. This paper reports a series of shake table experiments on a polyvinyl chloride model tank containing water. A comparison of the seismic behaviour of the tank with and without anchorage is described. Stochastically generated ground motions, based on a Japanese design spectrum, and three tank aspect ratios (liquid‐height/radius) are considered. Measurements were made of the stresses at the outer shell of the tank, the tank wall acceleration and the horizontal displacement at the top of the tank. While the top displacement and the tank shell acceleration increased when uplift was allowed, axial compressive stresses decreased by between 35% and 64% with tank uplift. The effect of uplift on the hoop stresses was variable depending on the aspect ratio. A comparison of experimental values with a numerical model is provided. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Galerkin spectral method based on helical‐wave decomposition for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Liao Zi‐Ju , Su Wei‐Dong
Published: February 2015

This paper presents a global Galerkin spectral method for solving the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations in three‐dimensional bounded domains. The method is based on helical‐wave decomposition (HWD), which uses the vector eigenfunctions of the curl operator as orthogonal basis functions. We shall first review the general theory of HWD in an arbitrary simply connected domain, along with some new developments. We then employ the HWD to construct a Galerkin spectral method. The current method innovates the existing HWD‐based spectral method by (a) adding a series of auxiliary fields to the HWD of the velocity field to fulfill the no‐slip boundary condition and to settle the convergence problem of the HWD of the curl fields, and (b) providing a pseudo‐spectral method that utilizes a fast spherical harmonic transform algorithm and Gaussian quadrature to calculate the nonlinear term in the Navier–Stokes equations. The auxiliary fields are uniquely determined by solving the Stokes and Stokes‐like equations under adequate boundary conditions. The implementation of the method under the spherical geometry is presented in detail. Several numerical examples are provided to validate the proposed method. The method can be easily extended to other domains once the helical‐wave bases, which depend only on the geometry of the domains, are available. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐dependent changes in the mouse hippocampal synaptic membrane proteome after contextual fear conditioning
Authors: Rao‐Ruiz Priyanka , Carney Karen E. , Pandya Nikhil , van der Loo Rolinka J. , Verheijen Mark H.G. , van Nierop Pim , Smit August B. , Spijker Sabine
Published: February 2015

A change in efficacy of hippocampal synapses is critical for memory formation. So far, the molecular analysis of synapses during learning has focused on small groups of proteins, whereas the dynamic global changes at these synapses have remained unknown. Here, we analyzed the temporal changes of the mouse hippocampal synaptic membrane proteome 1 and 4 h after contextual fear learning, comparing two groups; (1) a fear memory forming “delayed‐shock” group and (2) a fear memory‐deficient “immediate‐shock” group. No changes in protein expression were observed 1 h after conditioning between the two experimental groups. However, 423 proteins were significantly regulated 4 h later of which 164 proteins showed a temporal regulation after a delayed shock and 273 proteins after the stress of an immediate shock. From the proteins that were differentially regulated between the delayed‐ and the immediate‐shock groups at 4 h, 48 proteins, most prominently representing endocytosis, (amphiphysin, dynamin, and synaptojanin1), glutamate signaling (glutamate [NMDA] receptor subunit epsilon‐1, disks large homolog 3), and neurotransmitter metabolism (excitatory amino acid transporter 1, excitatory amino acid transporter 2, sodium‐ and chloride‐dependent GABA transporter 3) were regulated in both protocols, but in opposite directions, pointing toward an interaction of learning and stress. Taken together, this data set yields novel insight into diverse and dynamic changes that take place at hippocampal synapses over the time course of contextual fear‐memory learning. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Students' online collaborative intention for group projects: Evidence from an extended version of the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Cheng Eddie W. L. , Chu Samuel K. W.
Published: February 2015

Given the increasing use of web technology for teaching and learning, this study developed and examined an extended version of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model, which explained students' intention to collaborate online for their group projects. Results indicated that past experience predicted the three antecedents of intention, while past behaviour was predictive of subjective norm and perceived behavioural control. Moreover, the three antecedents (attitude towards e‐collaboration, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control) were found to significantly predict e‐collaborative intention. This study explored the use of the “remember” type of awareness (i.e. past experience) and evaluated the value of the “know” type of awareness (i.e. past behaviour) in the TPB model.
Writing Through the Labyrinth of Fears
Authors: Tatum Alfred W.
Published: February 2015

This commentary discusses the legacy of Walter Dean Myers in relationship to advancing writing as an intellectual tool of protection for black male teens. Multiple implications are provided for teachers who want to engage black male teens to write fearlessly to extend the legacy of Walter Dean Myers.
Multimodal Scaffolding in the Secondary English Classroom Curriculum
Authors: Boche Benjamin , Henning Megan
Published: February 2015

This article examines the topic of multimodal scaffolding in the secondary English classroom curriculum through the viewpoint of one teacher's experiences. With technology becoming more commonplace and readily available in the English classroom, we must pinpoint specific and tangible ways to help teachers use and teach multimodalities in their classrooms that promote student learning across a broad variety of text types and tap into higher levels of thinking. Teachers can then help students apply what they learn from multimodal scaffolding to address increasingly complex texts as outlined in the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS). This article identifies and demonstrates ways to help students develop as readers as well as helping teachers use specific multimodal instructional strategies to target text complexity.
Effects of Deletion of ERα in Osteoblast-Lineage Cells on Bone Mass and Adaptation to Mechanical Loading Differ in Female and Male Mice
Authors: Melville Katherine M , Kelly Natalie H , Surita Gina , Buchalter Daniel B , Schimenti John C , Main Russell P , Ross F Patrick , van der Meulen Marjolein CH
Published: February 2015

Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) has been implicated in bone's response to mechanical loading in both males and females. ERα in osteoblast lineage cells is important for determining bone mass, but results depend on animal sex and the cellular stage at which ERα is deleted. We demonstrated previously that when ERα is deleted from mature osteoblasts and osteocytes in mixed-background female mice, bone mass and strength are decreased. However, few studies exist examining the skeletal response to loading in bone cell–specific ERαKO mice. Therefore, we crossed ERα floxed (ERαfl/fl) and osteocalcin-Cre (OC-Cre) mice to generate animals lacking ERα in mature osteoblasts and osteocytes (pOC-ERαKO) and littermate controls (LC). At 10 weeks of age, the left tibia was loaded in vivo for 2 weeks. We analyzed bone mass through micro-CT, bone formation rate by dynamic histomorphometry, bone strength from mechanical testing, and osteoblast and osteoclast activity by serum chemistry and immunohistochemistry. ERα in mature osteoblasts differentially regulated bone mass in males and females. Compared with LC, female pOC-ERαKO mice had decreased cortical and cancellous bone mass, whereas male pOC-ERαKO mice had equal or greater bone mass than LC. Bone mass results correlated with decreased compressive strength in pOC-ERαKO female L5 vertebrae and with increased maximum moment in pOC-ERαKO male femora. Female pOC-ERαKO mice responded more to mechanical loading, whereas the response of pOC-ERαKO male animals was similar to their littermate controls. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Experience in therapeutic plasma exchange by membrane filtration at an academic center in Colombia: Registry of the first 500 sessions
Authors: Córdoba Juan Pablo , Larrarte Carolina , Medina María Camila
Published: February 2015

Introduction: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is an extracorporeal blood purification therapy that is part of the treatment of various diseases. Plasma and blood cells can be separated by centrifugation or using membrane separators. Materials and methods: A descriptive analysis, in which the first 500 TPE sessions using membrane filtration without anticoagulation of the extracorporeal circuit are described. Results: Five hundred (500) TPE sessions were performed on 68 patients over a period of 5 years. Therapeutic indications were 17 different diseases. 5% albumin was the most frequent replacement solution used in 62% of sessions. The mean number of plasma volume replacements was 1.33. Complications occurred in 7.6% of the sessions. Arterial hypotension was the most common event and clotting of the extracorporeal circuit was documented in just one TPE session. Electrolyte tests performed in patients during the procedure showed: 11% hypocalcemia, with a similar distribution of hypokalemia. Twenty‐two percent (22%) and 37% of phosphorus and magnesium records, respectively, were higher than normal. No symptoms associated with electrolyte abnormalities were documented. Conclusions: TPE by membrane filtration is one of the techniques by which it is possible to perform such therapy. In this registry, a low rate of complications was documented. While the need for anticoagulation may be related not only to clotting of the circuit but also to the efficiency of the therapy, clinical response in this series of patients was as expected for each disease. Continuous monitoring and an individualized analysis of electrolytes should be performed in TPE patients. J. Clin. Apheresis 30:347–352, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Autophagy Mediates HBx‐Induced Nuclear Factor‐κB Activation and Release of IL‐6, IL‐8, and CXCL2 in Hepatocytes
Authors: Luo Millore X.M. , Wong Sunny H. , Chan Matthew T.V. , Yu Le , Yu Sidney S.B. , Wu Feng , Xiao Zhangang , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Lin , Cheng Alfred S.L. , Ng Simon S.M. , Chan Francis K.L. , Cho Chi H. , Yu Jun , Sung Joseph J.Y. , Wu William K.K.
Published: February 2015

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and one of its encoded proteins, HBV X protein (HBx), have been shown to induce autophagy in hepatoma cells. Substantial evidence indicates that autophagy is a potent suppressor of inflammation. However, sporadic reports suggest that autophagy could promote pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression and inflammation in some biological contexts. Here, we show that overexpression of HBx induces LC3B‐positive autophagosome formation, increases autophagic flux and enhances the expression of ATG5, ATG7, and LC3B‐II in normal hepatocytes. Abrogation of autophagy by small interfering RNA against ATG5 and ATG7 prevents HBx‐induced formation of autophagosomes. Autophagy inhibition also abrogates HBx‐induced activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and production of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐8, and CXCL2. These findings suggest that autophagy is required for HBx‐induced NF‐κB activation and pro‐inflammatory cytokine production and could shed new light on the complex role of autophagy in the modulation of inflammation. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2382–2389, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The origin of turtles: A paleontological perspective
Authors: Joyce Walter G.
Published: February 2015

The origin of turtles and their unusual body plan has fascinated scientists for the last two centuries. Over the course of the last decades, a broad sample of molecular analyses have favored a sister group relationship of turtles with archosaurs, but recent studies reveal that this signal may be the result of systematic biases affecting molecular approaches, in particular sampling, non‐randomly distributed rate heterogeneity among taxa, and the use of concatenated data sets. Morphological studies, by contrast, disfavor archosaurian relationships for turtles, but the proposed alternative topologies are poorly supported as well. The recently revived paleontological hypothesis that the Middle Permian Eunotosaurus africanus is an intermediate stem turtle is now robustly supported by numerous characters that were previously thought to be unique to turtles and that are now shown to have originated over the course of tens of millions of years unrelated to the origin of the turtle shell. Although E. africanus does not solve the placement of turtles within Amniota, it successfully extends the stem lineage of turtles to the Permian and helps resolve some questions associated with the origin of turtles, in particular the non‐composite origin of the shell, the slow origin of the shell, and the terrestrial setting for the origin of turtles. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 324B: 181–193, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recovery audit contractor audits and appeals at three academic medical centers
Authors: Sheehy Ann M. , Locke Charles , Engel Jeannine Z. , Weissburg Daniel J. , Mackowiak Stephanie , Caponi Bartho , Gangireddy Sreedevi , Deutschendorf Amy
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Outpatient (observation) and inpatient status determinations for hospitalized Medicare beneficiaries have generated increasing concern for hospitals and patients. Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) activity alleging improper status, however, has received little attention, and there are conflicting federal and hospital reports of RAC activity and hospital appeals success.

OBJECTIVE

To detail complex Medicare Part A RAC activity.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PATIENTS

Retrospective descriptive study of complex Medicare Part A audits at 3 academic hospitals from 2010 to 2013.

MEASUREMENTS

Complex Part A audits, outcome of audits, and hospital workforce required to manage this process.

RESULTS

Of 101,862 inpatient Medicare encounters, RACs audited 8110 (8.0%) encounters, alleged overpayment in 31.3% (2536/8110), and hospitals disputed 91.0% (2309/2536). There was a nearly 3‐fold increase in RAC overpayment determinations in 2 years, although the hospitals contested and won a larger percent of cases each year. One‐third (645/1935, 33.3%) of settled claims were decided in the discussion period, which are favorable decisions for the hospitals not reported in federal appeals data. Almost half (951/1935, 49.1%) of settled contested cases were withdrawn by the hospitals and rebilled under Medicare Part B to avoid the lengthy (mean 555 [SD 255] days) appeals process. These original inpatient claims are considered improper payments recovered by the RAC. The hospitals also lost appeals (0.9%) by missing a filing deadline, yet there was no reciprocal case concession when the appeals process missed a deadline. No overpayment determinations contested the need for care delivered, rather that care should have been delivered under outpatient, not inpatient, status. The institutions employed an average 5.1 full‐time staff in the audits process.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest a need for RAC reform, including improved transparency in data reporting. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:212–219. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Congenital heart disease assessment with 4D flow MRI
Authors: Vasanawala Shreyas S. , Hanneman Kate , Alley Marcus T. , Hsiao Albert
Published: February 2015

With improvements in surgical and medical management, patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) are often living well into adulthood. MRI provides critical data for diagnosis and monitoring of these patients, yielding information on cardiac anatomy, blood flow, and cardiac function. Though historically these exams have been complex and lengthy, four‐dimensional (4D) flow is emerging as a single fast technique for comprehensive assessment of CHD. The 4D flow consists of a volumetric time‐resolved acquisition that is gated to the cardiac cycle, providing a time‐varying vector field of blood flow as well as registered anatomic images. In this article, we provide an overview of MRI evaluation of congenital heart disease by means of example of three relatively common representative conditions: tetralogy of Fallot, aortic coarctation, and anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. Then 4D flow data acquisition, data correction, and postprocessing techniques are reviewed. We conclude with several examples that highlight the comprehensive nature of the evaluation of congenital heart disease with 4D flow. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:870–886.
Comparison of the efficacies of entecavir 0.5 and 1.0 mg combined with adefovir in patients with chronic hepatitis B who had failed on prior nucleos(t)ide analogue treatments
Authors: Cho Yuri , Lee Jeong‐Hoon , Yu Su Jong , Yoon Jung‐Hwan , Lee Hyo‐Suk , Kim Yoon Jun
Published: February 2015

Entecavir (ETV) plus adefovir (ADV) combination therapy is one of the useful treatment option for the patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who had failed on prior nucleos(t) ide analogue (NA) treatments. This study compared the efficacies of the combinations of ETV 0.5 mg plus ADV and ETV 1.0 mg plus ADV in patients who had failed on prior multiple NA treatments. This retrospective analysis included 148 consecutive patients with CHB infection in Korea (n = 37 with ETV 0.5 mg plus ADV and n = 111 with ETV 1.0 mg plus ADV). The virological and biochemical responses were compared between the two groups. The cumulative probability of viral suppression of ETV 0.5 mg plus ADV was not inferior to that of ETV 1.0 mg plus ADV (hazard ratio [HR], 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38–1.08; P = 0.094). The changes in serum HBV DNA level in the ETV 0.5 mg plus ADV group were not different between the two groups over 12 months. Moreover, no significant difference was observed in acquiring ETV‐resistant variants between the two groups during the treatment (HR, 0.95; P = 0.953). This study suggests the proof‐of‐concept that the lower dose of NA in combination with other NA might be the theoretical option for rescue combination therapy in patients with CHB who had failed on prior multiple NA treatments in order to reduce systemic exposure and possible side effects of NA. J. Med. Virol. 87:999–1007, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genes involved in nutrient competition by Pseudomonas putida JBC17 to suppress green mold in postharvest satsuma mandarin
Authors: Yu Sang‐Mi , Lee Yong Hoon
Published: February 2015

Understanding the mechanisms underlying biocontrol activity in biocontrol agents is indispensable to implement biological control. However, the understanding of specific mechanisms for nutrient competition in nutrient limited environments is still limited. This study was performed to control green mold of postharvest satsuma mandarin (mandarin) using Pseudomonas putida JBC17 (JBC17), and identify the genes involved in nutrient competition. Treatment with JBC17 on wounded mandarin fruits at a concentration of 106 and 107 cfu ml−1 suppressed the incidence of green mold with efficacy of 74.1 and 91.4%, respectively, compared to the untreated control. In spite of there being no antifungal activity in a dual culture test, JBC17 significantly inhibited the conidial germination of Penicillium digitatum. The results from the nutrient competition assay revealed that the inhibition of conidial germination was exerted by nutrient starvation. From the constructed transposon (Tn) library of JBC17, exopolyphosphatase (ppx) and Xaa‐Pro aminopeptidase (pepP) were recognized as potential factors responsible for the inhibition of conidial germination. In conclusion, the understanding of nutrient depletion specific to the inhibition of conidial germination by JBC17 may ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of the bacterial metabolism and conidial metabolism for germination as well as biocontrol activity.
Betamethasone augments the antifungal effect of menadione—towards a novel anti‐Candida albicans combination therapy
Authors: Jakab Ágnes , Emri Tamás , Sipos Lilla , Kiss Ágnes , Kovács Renátó , Dombrádi Viktor , Kemény‐Beke Ádám , Balla József , Majoros László , Pócsi István
Published: February 2015

The fluorinated glucocorticoid betamethasone stimulated both the extracellular phospholipase production and hypha formation of the opportunistic human pathogen Candida albicans and also decreased the efficiency of the polyene antimycotics amphotericin B and nystatin against C. albicans in a dose‐dependent manner. Importantly, betamethasone increased synergistically the anti‐Candida activity of the oxidative stress generating agent menadione, which may be exploited in future combination therapies to prevent or cure C. albicans infections, in the field of dermatology.
Nondestructive investigation on the 17‐18th centuries Sicilian jewelry collection at the Messina regional museum using mobile Raman equipment
Authors: Barone G. , Bersani D. , Jehlička J. , Lottici P. P. , Mazzoleni P. , Raneri S. , Vandenabeele P. , Di Giacomo C. , Larinà G.
Published: February 2015

In recent years, the use of mobile Raman equipment as an archeological, artistic, and conservation tool has largely increased due to the possibility to obtain quick and nondestructive compositional analysis on precious, vulnerable, and unique art objects. In particular, art and archeological museums can take great advantage in carrying out in situ measurements in short times and without moving the artifacts. In this work, we report on the Raman measurements carried out by portable instruments on an important jewelry collection dated back to 17th–18th centuries and preserved in the Messina Regional Museum (Sicily, Italy) with the goal to verify the identification of the gems and gemological materials of the collection, previously made by conservators. Although most of the previous identifications were confirmed, some important reclassifications have been proposed. Finally, interesting and unusual combinations of different materials were detected in some jewels. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the in vitro α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity of green tea polyphenols and different tea types
Authors: Yang Xiaoping , Kong Fanbin
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine whether green tea, black tea and oolong tea have inhibitory potential against α‐glucosidase which may be used to control postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

Green tea polyphenols (TPs) strongly inhibited α‐glucosidase activity by non‐competitive inhibition with an IC50 value of 2.33 µg mL−1 and the inhibitory effect was dependent on TP concentration and incubation order. Green tea, black tea and oolong tea also had dose‐dependent inhibitory potential with IC50 values of 2.82, 2.25 and 1.38 µg mL−1 (µg polyphenol mL−1), respectively. The study also showed that the content of unprecipitated TPs changed during enzymatic hydrolysis, leading to the change of the antioxidant activity. The change of the antioxidant activity of tea extracts revealed a similar trend to that of green TPs during enzymatic hydrolysis.

CONCLUSION

Green TPs, green tea, black tea and oolong tea are excellent α‐glucosidase inhibitors and their inhibitory potency is mainly attributed to TPs. These findings suggest that green tea, black tea and oolong tea can potentially be used to control postprandial hyperglycemia. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Integration of life cycle assessment and regional emission information in agricultural systems
Authors: Kim Junbeum , Yalaltdinova Albina , Sirina Natalia , Baranovskaya Natalia
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a compilation and evaluation of the input energy and materials, output emissions and the potential environmental impacts of a product, service or system throughout its life cycle. While methodological issues of LCA are still being developed, much research is being conducted worldwide in order to improve them. One of the important advances in LCA is a regionalised LCA, i.e. the development of regionalised databases, inventories, and impact assessment methods and models.

RESULTS

Regional emission information (REI) was developed and integrated with the characterisation results in LCA of an agricultural product in the study area. Comparison of outcomes obtained with LCA characterisation results that did not include REI shows that the characterisation results taking REI into account are much higher as regards human toxicity, from 0.02% to 0.18%, freshwater ecotoxicity from 89% to 99% and terrestrial ecotoxicity from 8.006% to 26.177%.

CONCLUSION

Results of current LCA studies on agricultural products and systems that do not include REI are under‐estimating the life cycle environmental impact. For the LCA of agricultural products and systems, the REI as well as regionalised life cycle inventory data should be developed and integrated into the current LCA approach. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry