bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symmetric telepresence using robotic humanoid surrogates
Authors: Nagendran Arjun , Steed Anthony , Kelly Brian , Pan Ye
Published: April 2015

Telepresence involves the use of virtual reality technology to facilitate apparent physical participation in distant events, including potentially performing tasks, while creating a sense of being in that location. Traditionally, such systems are asymmetric in nature where only one side (participant) is “teleported” to the remote location. In this manuscript, the authors explore the possibility of symmetric three‐dimensional telepresence where both sides (participants) are “teleported” simultaneously to each other's location; the overarching concept of symmetric telepresence in virtual environments is extended to telepresence robots in physical environments. Two identical physical humanoid robots located in UK and the USA serve as surrogates while performing a transcontinental shared collaborative task. The actions of these surrogate robots are driven by capturing the intent of the participants controlling them in either location. Participants could communicate verbally but could not see the other person or the remote location while performing the task. The effectiveness of gesturing along with other observations during this preliminary experiment is presented. Results reveal that the symmetric robotic telepresence allowed participants to use and understand gestures in cases where they would otherwise have to describe their actions verbally. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactive tree modeling and deformation with collision detection and avoidance
Authors: Kim Yong‐Joon , Woo Jong‐Hwa , Kim Myung‐Soo , Elber Gershon
Published: April 2015

We present an interactive tree modeling and deformation system that supports an efficient collision detection and avoidance using a bounding volume hierarchy of sweep surfaces. Starting with conventional tree models (given as meshes), we convert them into sweep surfaces and deform their branches interactively while detecting and avoiding collisions with many other branches. Multiple tree models (sharing the same topology) can be generated with great ease using this sweep‐based approach, and they can serve as a basis for the generation of a multiparameter family of trees. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in an automatic generation of similar trees, the colonization of trees to form a forest, and the tree growth, aging, and withering simulations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conservative therapy with a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist for a uterine arteriovenous malformation in a patient with congenital heart disease
Authors: Katano Kinue , Takeda Yutaka , Sugiura‐Ogasawara Mayumi
Published: April 2015

Key Clinical Message

Uterine arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is rare but it can cause life‐threatening genital bleeding. Conservative therapy with GnRHa can be a useful option for treating a uterine AVM presenting with a congenital heart disease shunt in hemodynamically stable patients.
Correlation between Thermal Properties and Chemical Composition of Palm Oil Top Olein Fractions
Authors: Huang Xin , Wang Jingkang , Ouyang Jinbo , Hao Hongxun , Wang Yongli , Gao Yuan , Yin Qiuxiang , Bao Ying
Published: April 2015

A multistep dry fractionation method for modification of palm oil was adopted to achieve a high iodine value (IV) of the obtained palm olein, herein denoted as top olein. The effect of the composition of palm oil top olein on the IV and on the crystallization properties was analyzed in detail. Thermal properties of a series of olein and stearin fractions were evaluated by means of differential scanning calorimetry upon cooling. The composition of triacylglycerols in the products was investigated by high‐performance liquid chromatography. IV analysis was carried out to measure the degree of unsaturation in these oil samples. Finally, an innovative and reliable method was developed to determine the IV of palm oils by relating the thermal properties with IV. The results agree well with those obtained by the traditional American Oil Chemists' Society method.
Analytic Setup for Multicomponent High‐Pressure Phase Equilibria via Dual Online Gas Chromatography
Authors: Fourie Frederick C. v. N. , Schwarz Cara E. , Knoetze Johannes H.
Published: April 2015

A high‐pressure analytic phase equilibria setup, capable of operation at 150 °C and 30 MPa, was developed. The variable‐volume view cell contains two height‐adjustable samplers enabling simultaneous sampling from two phases. Concurrent analysis of both samples was performed with dual online gas chromatography (GC). The GC comprises two inlets, four columns, two switch valves, and three detectors, arranged in parallel pathways. Quantitative detector calibrations were used. The setup was validated by sampling from a one‐phase ternary of known composition, and comparison with binary and ternary literature data. The setup produces accurate phase composition data for supercritical systems and is well‐suited to handle mixture constituents ranging from volatile gases to mid‐length hydrocarbons.
Protein Composite Materials by Crystallization: Product and Process Design
Authors: Frohberg Patrick , Ulrich Joachim
Published: April 2015

The product and process design of protein composite materials continuously produced by reactive extrusion are studied in detail. A suitable process design and operating window are presented. Potassium nitrate (KNO3) was used as a model additive and as a tool for modifying the physiochemical properties of the extruded protein films. The crystalline structures were identified and correlated to the tensile properties of the films. Uniformly distributed trigonal phase‐III KNO3 crystals were observed within the film, which led to significantly higher elongation values of the films. Appropriate downstream operations are able to prevent the undesired polymorph transition to the orthorhombic phase II of KNO3 which would strongly reduce the mechanical performance.
Growth and Dissolution Kinetics of A and B Polymorphs of L‐Histidine
Authors: Wantha Lek , Flood Adrian E.
Published: April 2015

The growth rate of the stable polymorph A and the dissolution rate of the unstable polymorph B of L‐histidine (L‐his) in aqueous solution were experimentally determined at varying temperatures. The growth and dissolution kinetics were measured by means of desupersaturation and deundersaturation techniques, respectively. Both the growth and dissolution rates increase with higher temperature. At all temperatures studied, the dissolution rate of form B is faster than the growth rate of form A, indicating that the solution‐mediated transformation of the polymorphs of L‐his is likely to be controlled by the growth rate of form A. Both kinetics of the polymorphs of L‐his will be used to characterize the polymorphic transformations and the overall crystallization rate of L‐his.
In Situ Formation of a MoS2‐Based Inorganic–Organic Nanocomposite by Directed Thermal Decomposition
Authors: Djamil John , Segler Stefan A. W. , Bensch Wolfgang , Schürmann Ulrich , Deng Mao , Kienle Lorenz , Hansen Sven , Beweries Torsten , von Wüllen Leo , Rosenfeldt Sabine , Förster Stephan , Reinsch Helge
Published: April 2015

Nanocomposites based on molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and different carbon modifications are intensively investigated in several areas of applications due to their intriguing optical and electrical properties. Addition of a third element may enhance the functionality and application areas of such nanocomposites. Herein, we present a facile synthetic approach based on directed thermal decomposition of (Ph4P)2MoS4 generating MoS2 nanocomposites containing carbon and phosphorous. Decomposition at 250 °C yields a composite material with significantly enlarged MoS2 interlayer distances caused by in situ formation of Ph3PS bonded to the MoS2 slabs through MoS bonds and (Ph4P)2S molecules in the van der Waals gap, as was evidenced by 31P solid‐state NMR spectroscopy. Visible‐light‐driven hydrogen generation demonstrates a high catalytic performance of the materials.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Intermolecular C(sp2)O Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Kundu Debasish , Tripathy Manisha , Maity Pintu , Ranu Brindaban C.
Published: April 2015

Cobalt(II)‐catalyzed C(sp2)O cross‐coupling between aryl/heteroaryl alcohols and vinyl/aryl halides in the presence of CuI has been achieved under ligand‐free conditions. In this reaction, copper plays a significant role in transmetalation rather than being directly involved in the CO coupling. This unique Co/Cu‐dual catalyst system provides an easy access to a library of aryl–vinyl, heteroaryl–styryl, aryl–aryl, and heteroaryl–heteroaryl ethers in the absence of any ligand or additive.
Drug Metabolism by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: What Distinguishes the Pathways Leading to Substrate Hydroxylation Over Desaturation?
Authors: Ji Li , Faponle Abayomi S. , Quesne Matthew G. , Sainna Mala A. , Zhang Jing , Franke Alicja , Kumar Devesh , van Eldik Rudi , Liu Weiping , de Visser Sam P.
Published: April 2015

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are highly versatile biological catalysts in our body that react with a broad range of substrates. Key functions in the liver include the metabolism of drugs and xenobiotics. One particular metabolic pathway that is poorly understood relates to the P450 activation of aliphatic groups leading to either hydroxylation or desaturation pathways. A DFT and QM/MM study has been carried out on the factors that determine the regioselectivity of aliphatic hydroxylation over desaturation of compounds by P450 isozymes. The calculations establish multistate reactivity patterns, whereby the product distributions differ on each of the spin‐state surfaces; hence spin‐selective product formation was found. The electronic and thermochemical factors that determine the bifurcation pathways were analysed and a model that predicts the regioselectivity of aliphatic hydroxylation over desaturation pathways was established from valence bond and molecular orbital theories. Thus, the difference in energy of the OH versus the OC bond formed and the π‐conjugation energy determines the degree of desaturation products. In addition, environmental effects of the substrate binding pocket that affect the regioselectivities were identified. These studies imply that bioengineering P450 isozymes for desaturation reactions will have to include modifications in the substrate binding pocket to restrict the hydroxylation rebound reaction.
Nickel N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed CC Bond Formation: A New Route to Aryl Ketones
Authors: Gu Li‐Jun , Jin Cheng , Zhang Hong‐Tao
Published: April 2015

A novel nickel N‐heterocyclic carbene catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction of aryl aldehydes with boronic esters for the synthesis of aryl ketones was developed. This reaction provides a mild, practical method toward aryl ketones, which are versatile intermediates and building blocks in organic synthesis.
Crystalline Cyclic (Alkyl)(amino)carbene‐tetrafluoropyridyl Radical
Authors: Styra Steffen , Melaimi Mohand , Moore Curtis E. , Rheingold Arnold. L. , Augenstein Timo , Breher Frank , Bertrand Guy
Published: April 2015

A stable cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (CAAC) 1 inserts into the para‐CF bond of pentafluoropyridine, and after fluoride abstraction, the iminium‐pyridyl adduct [3]+ was isolated. A cyclic voltammetry study shows a reversible three‐state redox system involving [3]+, [3]⋅, and [3]−. The CAAC‐pyridyl radical [3]⋅, obtained by reduction of [3]+ with magnesium, has been spectroscopically and crystallographically characterized. In contrast to the lack of π communication between the CAAC and the pyridine units in cation [3]+, the unpaired electron of [3]⋅ is delocalized over an extended π system involving both heterocycles.
Multitarget Therapeutic Leads for Alzheimer’s Disease: Quinolizidinyl Derivatives of Bi‐ and Tricyclic Systems as Dual Inhibitors of Cholinesterases and β‐Amyloid (Aβ) Aggregation
Authors: Tonelli Michele , Catto Marco , Tasso Bruno , Novelli Federica , Canu Caterina , Iusco Giovanna , Pisani Leonardo , Stradis Angelo De , Denora Nunzio , Sparatore Anna , Boido Vito , Carotti Angelo , Sparatore Fabio
Published: April 2015

Multitarget therapeutic leads for Alzheimer’s disease were designed on the models of compounds capable of maintaining or restoring cell protein homeostasis and of inhibiting β‐amyloid (Aβ) oligomerization. Thirty‐seven thioxanthen‐9‐one, xanthen‐9‐one, naphto‐ and anthraquinone derivatives were tested for the direct inhibition of Aβ(1–40) aggregation and for the inhibition of electric eel acetylcholinesterase (eeAChE) and horse serum butyrylcholinesterase (hsBChE). These compounds are characterized by basic side chains, mainly quinolizidinylalkyl moieties, linked to various bi‐ and tri‐cyclic (hetero)aromatic systems. With very few exceptions, these compounds displayed inhibitory activity on both AChE and BChE and on the spontaneous aggregation of β‐amyloid. In most cases, IC50 values were in the low micromolar and sub‐micromolar range, but some compounds even reached nanomolar potency. The time course of amyloid aggregation in the presence of the most active derivative (IC50=0.84 μM) revealed that these compounds might act as destabilizers of mature fibrils rather than mere inhibitors of fibrillization. Many compounds inhibited one or both cholinesterases and Aβ aggregation with similar potency, a fundamental requisite for the possible development of therapeutics exhibiting a multitarget mechanism of action. The described compounds thus represent interesting leads for the development of multitarget AD therapeutics.
MS565: A SPECT Tracer for Evaluating the Brain Penetration of BAF312 (Siponimod)
Authors: Briard Emmanuelle , Rudolph Bettina , Desrayaud Sandrine , Krauser Joel A. , Auberson Yves P.
Published: April 2015

BAF312 (siponimod) is a sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator in clinical development for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, with faster organ/tissue distribution and elimination kinetics than its precursor FTY720 (fingolimod). Our aim was to develop a tracer to better quantify the penetration of BAF312 in the human brain, with the potential to be labeled for positron emission tomography (PET) or single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Although the PET radioisotopes 11C and 18F could have been introduced in BAF312 without modifying its structure, they do not have decay kinetics compatible with the time required for observing the drug′s organ distribution in patients. In contrast, the SPECT radioisotope 123I has a longer half‐life and would suit this purpose. Herein we report the identification of an iodinated derivative of BAF312, (E)‐1‐(4‐(1‐(((4‐cyclohexyl‐3‐iodobenzyl)oxy)imino)ethyl)‐2‐ethylbenzyl)azetidine‐3‐carboxylic acid (18, MS565), as a SPECT tracer candidate with affinity, S1P receptor selectivity, overall physicochemical properties, and blood pharmacokinetics similar to those of the original molecule. A whole‐body autoradiography study performed with [14C]MS565 subsequently confirmed that its organ distribution is similar to that of BAF312. This validates the selection of MS565 for 123I radiolabeling and for use in imaging studies to quantify the brain penetration of BAF312.
Multitarget‐Directed Tricyclic Pyridazinones as G Protein‐Coupled Receptor Ligands and Cholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Pau Amedeo , Catto Marco , Pinna Giovanni , Frau Simona , Murineddu Gabriele , Asproni Battistina , Curzu Maria M. , Pisani Leonardo , Leonetti Francesco , Loza Maria Isabel , Brea José , Pinna Gérard A. , Carotti Angelo
Published: April 2015

By following a multitarget ligand design approach, a library of 47 compounds was prepared, and they were tested as binders of selected G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) and inhibitors of acetyl and/or butyryl cholinesterase. The newly designed ligands feature pyridazinone‐based tricyclic scaffolds connected through alkyl chains of variable length to proper amine moieties (e.g., substituted piperazines or piperidines) for GPCR and cholinesterase (ChE) molecular recognition. The compounds were tested at three different GPCRs, namely serotoninergic 5‐HT1A, adrenergic α1A, and dopaminergic D2 receptors. Our main goal was the discovery of compounds that exhibit, in addition to ChE inhibition, antagonist activity at 5‐HT1A because of its involvement in neuronal deficits typical of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Ligands with nanomolar affinity for the tested GPCRs were discovered, but most of them behaved as dual antagonists of α1A and 5‐HT1A receptors. Nevertheless, several compounds displaying this GPCR affinity profile also showed moderate to good inhibition of AChE and BChE, thus deserving further investigations to exploit the therapeutic potential of such unusual biological profiles.
Medicinal Chemists of the 21st Century—Who Are We and Where to Go?
Authors: Nussbaumer Peter
Published: April 2015

Many recent articles have dealt with the future challenges in medicinal chemistry. Here, I discuss my concerns over the future of medicinal chemists, who have to be skilled and knowledgeable in many different fields, particularly in the context of the ever‐growing requirements, the request for even broader diversification, and the substantial structural change in industrial drug discovery. In my opinion, we have to do the following in order to ensure sustained high quality and achievements: 1) to focus on superior design without excluding complex structures a priori; 2) to proactively shape the future of our discipline; 3) to discuss specialization; 4) to intensify exchange between academia and industry; and 5) to remodel education of the next generation of medicinal chemists. By providing my opinion on these aspects, I hope to stimulate discussions and change within the community.
Androgen deprivation therapy and the risk of death from prostate cancer among men with favorable or unfavorable intermediate‐risk disease
Authors: Keane Florence K. , Chen Ming‐Hui , Zhang Danjie , Moran Brian J. , Braccioforte Michelle H. , D'Amico Anthony V.
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Radiotherapy (RT), short‐course androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), and brachytherapy in various combinations are treatment options for patients with intermediate‐risk prostate cancer (PC), but the question of which combination if any is necessary to minimize PC‐specific mortality (PCSM) risk in patients with favorable or unfavorable intermediate‐risk PC is unknown. The authors assessed PCSM risk after commonly used treatments.

METHODS

The cohort consisted of 2510 men with favorable (1902 men; 75.78%) or unfavorable (608 men; 24.22%) intermediate‐risk PC who were treated from 1997 to 2013. Treatment included brachytherapy with or without neoadjuvant ADT among men with favorable disease and brachytherapy with neoadjuvant RT or ADT among men with unfavorable disease. Fine and Gray's competing‐risks regression model was used to assess whether ADT among men with favorable disease or RT or ADT among men with unfavorable disease decreased PCSM risk after adjusting for treatment propensity score, year of brachytherapy, and PC prognostic factors.

RESULTS

After a median follow‐up of 7.78 years, 366 deaths (14.58%) were observed, 29 of which (7.92%) were from PC. There was a significant reduction in PCSM risk in men with unfavorable disease who were treated with ADT versus RT (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.34; 95% confidence interval, 0.13‐0.91 [P = .03]), but no significant difference in PCSM risk in men with favorable disease who received ADT and brachytherapy versus brachytherapy (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.18‐2.57 [P =.56]).

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant ADT does not appear to reduce PCSM risk in men undergoing brachytherapy for favorable intermediate‐risk PC and should not be considered a standard; however, it appears superior to neoadjuvant RT in men with unfavorable intermediate‐risk PC undergoing brachytherapy, making neoadjuvant ADT and brachytherapy a preferred option in these men. Cancer 2015;121:2713‐2719. © 2015 American Cancer Society
Direct projections from the dorsal premotor cortex to the superior colliculus in the macaque (macaca mulatta)
Authors: Distler Claudia , Hoffmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: April 2015

The dorsal premotor cortex (PMd) is part of the cortical network for arm movements during reach‐related behavior. Here we investigate the neuronal projections from the PMd to the midbrain superior colliculus (SC), which also contains reach‐related neurons, to investigate how the SC integrates into a cortico‐subcortical network responsible for initiation and modulation of goal‐directed arm movements. By using anterograde transport of neuronal tracers, we found that the PMd projects most strongly to the deep layers of the lateral part of the SC and the underlying reticular formation corresponding to locations where reach‐related neurons have been recorded, and from where descending tectofugal projections arise. A somewhat weaker projection targets the intermediate layers of the SC. By contrast, terminals originating from prearcuate area 8 mainly project to the intermediate layers of the SC. Thus, this projection pattern strengthens the view that different compartments in the SC are involved in the control of gaze and in the control or modulation of reaching movements. The PMD–SC projection assists in the participation of the SC in the skeletomotor system and provides the PMd with a parallel path to elicit forelimb movements. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:2390–2408, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantum private comparison protocol with cloud quantum computing
Authors: Tan Xiaoqing , Zhang Xiaoqian
Published: April 2015

Because privacy problems with big data impede progress at all phases of the pipeline that can create value from data, Alice and Bob have to perform private queries in order to obtain the private comparison results of big data. Suppose that the cloud devices are with the capacity of conventional and quantum computation, an efficient quantum private comparison protocol with ring‐trip transmission by safe cloud quantum computing in the quantum Internet is proposed. Two participant parties Alice and Bob, with the help of a semi‐trusted third party and cloud device by simple quantum measurements and mathematical operation, can compare the equality of their secret information without revealing the content of secret information. We show that our protocol can resist the eavesdropper Eve's intercept–resend attack, entangle–measure attack, and Trojan horse attack to cloud device, participant's intercept–measure–resend attack, and third party's attack. The qubit efficiency of our protocol approaches to 100%. We also analyze the connection between Eve's obtained information and the fidelity of secret information in detail. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Designing and evaluating weighted delegatable authorizations
Authors: Ruan Chun
Published: April 2015

This paper studies logic‐based methods for representing and evaluating complex access control policies needed by modern applications. In our framework, authorization and delegation rules are specified in a weighted delegatable authorization program, which is an extended logic program. We show how extended logic programs can be used to specify complex security policies, which support weighted administrative privilege delegation, weighted positive and negative authorizations, and weighted authorization propagations. We also present a conflict resolution method that enables flexible delegation control by considering priorities of authorization grantors and weights of authorizations. We show how this method can be specialized to achieve many of the current existing conflict resolution methods. A number of rules are provided to achieve delegation depth control, conflict resolution, and authorization and delegation propagations. We also show how to use SMODELS to implement weighted delegatable authorization program. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An iteration‐based hybrid parallel algorithm for tridiagonal systems of equations on multi‐core architectures
Authors: Tang Guangping , Yang Wangdong , Li Kenli , Ye Yu , Xiao Guoqing , Li Keqin
Published: April 2015

An optimized parallel algorithm is proposed to solve the problem occurred in the process of complicated backward substitution of cyclic reduction during solving tridiagonal linear systems. Adopting a hybrid parallel model, this algorithm combines the cyclic reduction method and the partition method. This hybrid algorithm has simple backward substitution on parallel computers comparing with the cyclic reduction method. In this paper, the operation count and execution time are obtained to evaluate and make comparison for these methods. On the basis of results of these measured parameters, the hybrid algorithm using the hybrid approach with a multi‐threading implementation achieves better efficiency than the other parallel methods, that is, the cyclic reduction and the partition methods. In particular, the approach involved in this paper has the least scalar operation count and the shortest execution time on a multi‐core computer when the size of equations meets some dimension threshold. The hybrid parallel algorithm improves the performance of the cyclic reduction and partition methods by 19.2% and 13.2%, respectively. In addition, by comparing the single‐iteration and multi‐iteration hybrid parallel algorithms, it is found that increasing iteration steps of the cyclic reduction method does not affect the performance of the hybrid parallel algorithm very much. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved Photocurrents for Water Oxidation by Using Metal–Organic Framework Derived Hybrid Porous Co3O4@Carbon/BiVO4 as a Photoanode
Authors: Hou Chun‐Chao , Li Ting‐Ting , Chen Yong , Fu Wen‐Fu
Published: April 2015

Efforts to improve the overall efficiency of photoelectrochemical water splitting by promoting interfacial charge transfer and suppressing electron–hole recombination remain a challenge. Highly porous Co3O4@carbon derived from metal–organic frameworks was successfully embedded on the surface of BiVO4 nanosheets. The Co3O4@carbon/BiVO4 composites were fully characterised by a variety of techniques, including powder XRD, diffuse reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy, BET surface area calculations, SEM, TEM, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning TEM, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The construction of a heterojunction between porous Co3O4 (p‐Co3O4) and BiVO4 significantly promoted charge transfer and suppressed the recombination of holes and electrons. Consequently, the p‐Co3O4@carbon/BiVO4 photoanode demonstrated approximately tenfold higher photocurrent density relative to bare BiVO4 and bulk Co3O4/BiVO4 for water oxidation under the same conditions. Also, this system displayed good durability for water oxidation and could be recycled at least three times without any loss of catalytic activity.
Carbonaceous Materials and Their Advances as a Counter Electrode in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Kouhnavard Mojgan , Ludin Norasikin Ahmad , Ghaffari Babak V. , Sopian Kamarozzaman , Ikeda Shoichiro
Published: April 2015

Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) serve as low‐costing alternatives to silicon solar cells because of their low material and fabrication costs. Usually, they utilize Pt as the counter electrode (CE) to catalyze the iodine redox couple and to complete the electric circuit. Given that Pt is a rare and expensive metal, various carbon materials have been intensively investigated because of their low costs, high surface areas, excellent electrochemical stabilities, reasonable electrochemical activities, and high corrosion resistances. In this feature article, we provide an overview of recent studies on the electrochemical properties and photovoltaic performances of carbon‐based CEs (e.g., activated carbon, nanosized carbon, carbon black, graphene, graphite, carbon nanotubes, and composite carbon). We focus on scientific challenges associated with each material and highlight recent advances achieved in overcoming these obstacles. Finally, we discuss possible future directions for this field of research aimed at obtaining highly efficient DSSCs.
Design Principles of Perovskites for Thermochemical Oxygen Separation
Authors: Ezbiri Miriam , Allen Kyle M. , Gàlvez Maria E. , Michalsky Ronald , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: April 2015

Separation and concentration of O2 from gas mixtures is central to several sustainable energy technologies, such as solar‐driven synthesis of liquid hydrocarbon fuels from CO2, H2O, and concentrated sunlight. We introduce a rationale for designing metal oxide redox materials for oxygen separation through “thermochemical pumping” of O2 against a pO2 gradient with low‐grade process heat. Electronic structure calculations show that the activity of O vacancies in metal oxides pinpoints the ideal oxygen exchange capacity of perovskites. Thermogravimetric analysis and high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction for SrCoO3−δ, BaCoO3−δ and BaMnO3−δ perovskites and Ag2O and Cu2O references confirm the predicted performance of SrCoO3−δ, which surpasses the performance of state‐of‐the‐art Cu2O at these conditions with an oxygen exchange capacity of 44 mmol mol−1 exchanged at 12.1 μmol min−1 g−1 at 600–900 K. The redox trends are understood due to lattice expansion and electronic charge transfer.
Modified CFOA, its transpose, and applications
Authors: Swamy M. N. S.
Published: April 2015

It is shown that the recently‐proposed modified current feedback operational amplifier (MCFOA) is quite a versatile element in that given a realization for a system function using MCFOAs, we can obtain three alternate realizations using the same MCFOA but by appropriately connecting the y, x, w, and z terminals of the MCFOA to the remaining part of the original realization. Using the results concerning the transpose of a multi‐terminal element, it is further shown that the transpose of an MCFOA is another MCFOA. Thus, using the results of transposition, given a voltage‐mode circuit using MCFOAs, we can directly obtain four current‐mode circuits using the same MCFOAs or vice versa. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of metabolic profile of novel triethylamine containing thiophene S006‐830 in rat, rabbit, dog and human liver microsomes
Authors: Hidau Mahendra Kumar , Singh Yeshwant , Singh Shio Kumar
Published: April 2015

CDRI S006‐830 is a potent triethylamine containing thiophene antitubercular compound of the Central Drug Research Institute, India. The present study aimed to conduct comprehensive metabolic investigations of CDRI S006‐830 to corroborate its preclinical investigations. Preliminary metabolic investigations were performed to assess the metabolic stability, enzyme kinetics, reaction phenotyping, and metabolite identification of CDRI S006‐830 in rat, rabbit, dog, and human liver microsomes using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. The observed in vitro t1/2 and Clint values were 9.9 ± 1.29, 4.5 ± 0.52, 4.5 ± 0.86, 17 ± 5.21 min and 69.60 ± 8.37, 152.0 ± 17.26, 152.34 ± 27.63, 33.62 ± 21.04 μL/min/mg in rat, rabbit, dog and human liver microsomes respectively. These observations suggested that CDRI S006‐830 rapidly metabolized in the presence of NADPH in liver microsomes of rat, rabbit and dog while moderately metabolized in human liver microsomes. It was observed that CDRI S006‐830 exhibited monophasic Michaelis–Menten kinetics. The metabolism of CDRI S006‐830 was primarily mediated by CYP3A4 and was deduced by CYP reaction phenotyping with known potent inhibitors. CYP3A4 involvement was also confirmed by cDNA‐expressed recombinant human isozyme activity with different CYPs. Four major phase‐I metabolites of S006‐830, (M‐1 to M‐4) were detected in rat, rabbit, dog (except M4) and human liver microsomes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Too Many Cooks Spoil the Broth – Variable Potencies of Oxidizing Mn Complexes of a Hexadentate Carboxylato Ligand
Authors: Deville Claire , Finsel Maik , de Sousa David P. , Szafranowska Barbara , Behnken Julian , Svane Simon , Bond Andrew D. , Seidler‐Egdal Rune Kirk , McKenzie Christine J.
Published: April 2015

Given the hexadenticity of the monoanionic ligand in the procatalyst [Mn(tpena)(H2O)](ClO4) {tpena– = N,N,N′‐tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)ethylenediamine‐N′‐acetate}, it is perhaps surprising that this complex can catalyze the epoxidation of alkenes. When peracetic acid is used as terminal oxidant, the selectivity and rates of reactions are comparable with those reported for the manganese complexes of the commonly employed neutral tetradentate N4 ligands under analogous conditions. Cyclooctene conversion rates are similar when tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) is used; however, the selectivity is greatly diminished. In the absence of organic substrates, [MnII(tpena)]+ catalyzes water oxidation by TBHP (initial rate ca. 23 mmol/h when [Mn] = 0.1 mM, at room temp.). To explain the variations in the selectivity of catalytic epoxidations and the observation of competing water oxidation, we propose that several metal‐based oxidants (the “cooks”) can be generated from [MnII(tpena)]+. These embody different potencies. The most powerful, and hence least selective, is proposed to be the isobaric isomer of [MnIV2(O)2(tpena)2]2+, namely an oxylic radical complex, [(tpena)MnIII(μ2‐O)MnIV(O·)(tpena)]2+. The formation of this species depends on the catalyst concentration, and it is favoured when TBHP is used as the terminal oxidant. The generation of the less potent [MnIV(O)(tpena)]+, which we propose as the direct oxidant in epoxidation reactions, is favoured in non‐aqueous solutions when peracetic acid is used as the terminal oxidant.
A Total Synthesis of Galanthamine Involving De Novo Construction of the Aromatic C‐Ring
Authors: Nugent Jeremy , Matoušová Eliška , Banwell Martin G.
Published: April 2015

The tetracyclic alkaloid galanthamine is used clinically in a number of countries for the symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate forms of Alzheimer's disease, and this feature coupled with its novel molecular architecture has prompted an extensive focus on its synthesis. The present study reports a new and distinct synthesis of galanthamine wherein the AB‐ring substructure and associated quaternary carbon centre are constructed by using a palladium‐catalyzed intramolecular Alder‐ene reaction. The product of this process is engaged in a Tsuji–Trost‐type reaction to generate a semicyclic diene that participates in a normal‐electron‐demand Diels–Alder reaction to generate, after oxidation of the initially formed adduct, the aromatic C‐ring of the target alkaloid. Modified Bischler–Napieralski chemistry is then deployed to construct the seven‐membered D‐ring and thereby furnishing narwedine, an established precursor to both (+)‐ and (–)‐galanthamine.
Valuation of Child Health‐Related Quality of Life in the United States
Authors: Craig Benjamin M. , Greiner Wolfgang , Brown Derek S. , Reeve Bryce B.
Published: April 2015

Many economic analyses fail to incorporate evidence on child health‐related quality of life because of a paucity of quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) estimates. This health valuation study is the first to summarize the EQ‐5D‐Y on a QALY scale. Drawn from a nationally representative panel, 5207 adult respondents were asked to choose between two losses in child health‐related quality of life. Based on their choices, a 1‐year increase in child pain/discomfort from ‘some’ to ‘a lot’ equals a loss of 4 QALYs (95% CI, 3.8–4.4). Likewise, a 1‐year increase in child anxiety/depression from ‘a bit’ to ‘very worried, sad, or unhappy’ equals a loss of 2 QALYs (95% CI, 1.9–2.2). These findings enable the integration of child‐reported outcomes with adult preferences to inform economic analysis. Results inform both clinical practice and resource allocation decisions by enhancing understanding of difficult tradeoffs in child‐reported outcomes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitric Oxide Donor s‐Nitroso‐n‐Acetyl Penicillamine (SNAP) Alters Meiotic Spindle Morphogenesis in Xenopus Oocytes
Authors: Gelaude Armance , Marin Matthieu , Cailliau Katia , Jeseta Michal , Lescuyer‐Rousseau Arlette , Vandame Pauline , Nevoral Jan , Sedmikova Marketa , Martoriati Alain , Bodart Jean‐François
Published: April 2015

Nitric Oxide (NO) has been involved in both intra‐ and extra‐cellular signaling pathways in a wide range of organisms, and can be detected in some reproductive tissues. Based upon previous results reporting that NO‐donor SNAP (s‐nitroso‐n‐acetyl penicillamine) promoted the release from the metaphase II‐anaphase II block in amphibian eggs, the aim of the present study was to assess the influence of SNAP on the activation of the molecular mechanisms triggering meiotic resumption of Xenopus oocytes, analogous to G2/M transition of the cell cycle. A high concentration of SNAP (2.5 mM) was found to inhibit the appearance of the white spot (meiotic resumption) and promoted alteration of spindle morphogenesis leading to atypical structures lacking bipolarity and correct chromosomes equatorial alignment. The medium acidification (pH = 4) promoted by SNAP specifically impacted the white spot occurrence. However, even when pH was restored to 7.4 in SNAP medium, observed spindles remained atypical (microtubule disorganization), suggesting SNAP impacted spindle assembly regardless of the pH. n‐Acetyl‐d,l‐penicillamine disulfide, a degradation product of SNAP with the same molecular characteristics, albeit without release of NO, yielded spindle assemblies typical of metaphase II suggesting the specificity of NO action on meiotic spindle morphogenesis in Xenopus oocytes. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2445–2454, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytokine Stimulation of MUC4 Expression in Human Female Reproductive Tissue Carcinoma Cell Lines and Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Chapela Patricia J. , Broaddus Russell R. , Hawkins Shannon M. , Lessey Bruce A. , Carson Daniel D.
Published: April 2015

MUC4, a transmembrane glycoprotein, interferes with cell adhesion, and promotes EGFR signaling in cancer. Studies in rat models have demonstrated steroid hormonal regulation of endometrial MUC4 expression. In this study, qRT‐PCR screening of mouse tissues determined that Muc4 mRNA also was robustly expressed in mouse uteri. Previous studies from our labs have demonstrated MUC4 mRNA was expressed at levels <1% of MUC1 mRNA in human endometrium and endometriotic tissue. Multiple human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell lines were assayed for MUC4 mRNA expression revealing extremely low basal expression in the Ishikawa, RL‐95‐2, AN3CA, and KLE lines. Moderate to high expression was observed in HEC50 and HEC‐1A cells. MUC4 mRNA expression was not affected by progesterone and/or estrogen treatment, but was greatly stimulated at both mRNA and protein levels by proinflammatory cytokines (IFN‐γ and TNF‐α), particularly when used in combination. In endometrial tissue, MUC4 mRNA levels did not change significantly between normal or cancerous samples; although, a subset of patients with grade 1 and 2 tumors displayed substantially higher expression. Likewise, immunostaining of human endometrial adenocarcinoma tissues revealed little to no staining in many patients (low MUC4), but strong staining in some patients (high MUC4) independent of cancer grade. In cases where staining was observed, it was heterogeneous with some cells displaying robust MUC4 expression and others displaying little or no staining. Collectively, these observations demonstrate that while MUC4 is highly expressed in the mouse uterus, it is not a major mucin in normal human endometrium. Rather, MUC4 is a potential marker of endometrial adenocarcinoma in a subset of patients. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2649–2657, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MiR‐25 Suppresses 3T3‐L1 Adipogenesis by Directly Targeting KLF4 and C/EBPα
Authors: Liang Wei‐Cheng , Wang Yan , Liang Pu‐Ping , Pan Xu‐Qing , Fu Wei‐Ming , Yeung Venus Sai‐Ying , Lu Ying‐Fei , Wan David Chi‐Cheong , Tsui Stephen Kwok‐Wing , Tsang Suk‐Ying , Ma Wen‐Bin , Zhang Jin‐Fang , Waye Mary Miu‐Yee
Published: April 2015

In the past decade, miRNA emerges as a vital player in orchestrating gene regulation and maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is well documented that miRNA influences a variety of biological events, including embryogenesis, cell fate decision, and cellular differentiation. Adipogenesis is an organized process of cellular differentiation by which pre‐adipocytes differentiate towards mature adipocytes. It has been shown that adipogenesis is tightly modulated by a number of transcription factors such as PPARγ, KLF4, and C/EBPα. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the missing link between miRNA and adipogenesis‐related transcription factors remain elusive. In this study, we unveiled that miR‐25, a member of miR‐106b‐25 cluster, was remarkably downregulated during 3T3‐L1 adipogenesis. Restored expression of miR‐25 significantly impaired 3T3‐L1 adipogenesis and downregulated the expression of serial adipogenesis‐related genes. Further experiments presented that ectopic expression of miR‐25 did not affect cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. Finally, KLF4 and C/EBPα, two key regulators of adipocyte differentiation, were experimentally identified as bona fide targets for miR‐25. These data indicate that miR‐25 is a novel negative regulator of adipocyte differentiation and it suppressed 3T3‐L1 adipogenesis by targeting KLF4 and C/EBPα, which provides novel insights into the molecular mechanism of miRNA‐mediated cellular differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 2658–2666, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ab initio ground‐state potential energy function and vibration‐rotation energy levels of imidogen, NH
Authors: Koput Jacek
Published: April 2015

The accurate ground‐state potential energy function of imidogen, NH, has been determined from ab initio calculations using the multireference averaged coupled‐pair functional (MR‐ACPF) method in conjunction with the correlation‐consistent core‐valence basis sets up to octuple‐zeta quality. The importance of several effects, including electron correlation beyond the MR‐ACPF level of approximation, the scalar relativistic, adiabatic, and nonadiabatic corrections were discussed. Along with the large one‐particle basis set, all of these effects were found to be crucial to attain “spectroscopic” accuracy of the theoretical predictions of vibration‐rotation energy levels of NH. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
c‐Src‐dependent transactivation of EGFR mediates CORM‐2‐induced HO‐1 expression in human tracheal smooth muscle cells
Authors: Yang Chuen‐Mao , Lin Chih‐Chung , Lee I‐Ta , Hsu Chih‐Kai , Tai Yu‐Chen , Hsieh Hsi‐Lung , Chi Pei‐Ling , Hsiao li‐Der
Published: April 2015

Carbon monoxide (CO), a reaction product of the cytoprotective heme oxygenase (HO)‐1, displays an anti‐inflammatory effect in various cellular injuries, but the precise mechanisms of HO‐1 expression remain unknown. We used the transition metal carbonyl compound carbon monoxide‐releasing molecule‐2 (CORM‐2) that acts as carbon monoxide donor. The effects of CORM‐2 on expression of HO‐1 in human tracheal smooth muscle cells (HTSMCs) were determined by Western blot, real‐time PCR, and promoter activity assay. In HTSMCs, CORM‐2 activated Nrf2 through the activation of a c‐Src/EGFR/PI3K/Akt‐dependent pathway, resulting in HO‐1 expression. We showed that CORM‐2‐induced HO‐1 protein and mRNA levels were inhibited by the inhibitor of c‐Src (PP1 or SU6656), EGFR (AG1478), PI3K (LY294002), Akt (SH‐5), JNK1/2 (SP600125), or p38 MAPK (SB202190) and transfection with siRNA of c‐Src, EGFR, Akt, p38, JNK2, or Nrf2 in HTSMCs. We also showed that CORM‐2 stimulated c‐Src, EGFR, Akt, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 phosphorylation. CORM‐2 also enhanced Nrf2 translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus and antioxidant response element (ARE) promoter activity. Moreover, CORM‐2 mediated p38 MAPK and JNK1/2 activation via a c‐Src/EGFR/PI3K/Akt pathway, which further enhanced Nrf2 activation and translocation. Finally, we observed that CORM‐2 induced in vivo binding of Nrf2 to the HO‐1 promoter. CORM‐2 activates the c‐Src/EGFR/PI3K/Akt/JNK1/2 and p38 MAPK pathways, which in turn trigger Nrf2 activation and ultimately induces HO‐1 expression in HTSMCs. Thus, the HO‐1/CO system might be potential therapeutics in airway diseases. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 2351–2361, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conversion to complete resection with mFOLFOX6 with bevacizumab or cetuximab based on K‐ras status for unresectable colorectal liver metastasis (BECK study)
Authors: Hatano Etsuro , Okuno Masayuki , Nakamura Kojiro , Ishii Takamichi , Seo Satoru , Taura Kojiro , Yasuchika Kentaro , Yazawa Takefumi , Zaima Masazumi , Kanazawa Akiyoshi , Terajima Hiroaki , Kaihara Satoshi , Adachi Yukihito , Inoue Naoya , Furumoto Katsuyoshi , Manaka Dai , Tokka Atsuo , Furuyama Hiroaki , Doi Koji , Hirose Tetsuro , Horimatsu Takahiro , Hasegawa Suguru , Matsumoto Shigemi , Sakai Yoshiharu , Uemoto Shinji
Published: April 2015

Background

Patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) might be down‐staged by chemotherapy from an initially unresectable stage to a resectable stage. Because the tumor response to preoperative chemotherapy has been correlated with resection rate, the improved efficacy from the concept that only the patients without K‐ras mutations receive an anti‐EGFR antibody might be expected to increase the conversion rate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the conversion rate from unresectable CRLM to complete resection.

Methods

We conducted a multi‐institutional phase II trial for unresectable CRLM. Patients received mFOLFOX6 with either bevacizumab (bev) or cetuximab (cet) based on K‐ras status (UMIN000004310). Planned treatment was for six cycles during which tumors were assessed for resectability every three cycles. Patients whose disease was unresectable after six cycles switched their chemotherapy regimen from mFOLFOX6 to FOLFIRI. The primary endpoint was R0 resection rate.

Results

Thirty‐five patients with unresectable CRLM were enrolled. A total of 22/12 patients with K‐ras wild‐type/mutant (wt/mt) were treated with mFOLFOX6 plus cet/bev, respectively. The overall response rate was 64.7% (wt/mt; 77.3%/41.7%, P = 0.04). In 20 patients (58.8%), hepatectomy was performed according to protocol treatment, and the conversion rate was 72.7%/33.3% in wt/mt patients, respectively (P = 0.03). Finally, 23 patients (67.6%) underwent hepatectomy, and the conversion rate was 77.2%/50.0% in wt/mt patients (P = 0.09). The overall R0 resection rate was 47.1% (wt/mt; 50.0%/41.7%, P = 0.36).

Conclusions

This prospective study showed that combined chemotherapy based on K‐ras status can facilitate conversion to resection in patients with unresectable CRLM.
When is pay for performance related to employee creativity in the Chinese context? The role of guanxi HRM practice, trust in management, and intrinsic motivation
Authors: Zhang Yong , Long Lirong , Wu Tsung‐yu , Huang Xu
Published: April 2015

This study aims to provide new insights into the reward–creativity link in the Chinese context by exploring the moderating effect of guanxi human resource management (HRM) practice—reflecting the extent to which HR decisions are influenced by personal relationships in an organization—on the relationship between pay for performance (PFP) and employee creativity. Using two independent samples that were composed of 222 and 216 supervisor–subordinate dyads from Mainland China and Taiwan, we found that the effect of pay for performance on creativity was invariantly moderated by perceived guanxi HRM practice in such a way that when guanxi HRM practice was low, PFP had stronger positive effects on creativity. Furthermore, trust in management, as reduced by guanxi HRM practice, mediated this moderating effect. Moreover, moderated path analysis revealed that intrinsic motivation mediated these moderated relationships among PFP, guanxi HRM practice, trust in management, and creativity. Findings shed light on the processes through which, and the conditions under which, PFP may promote creativity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.