bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tegenstrijdige ontwikkelingen mededingingstoezicht in de zorg
Authors: Loozen E.M.H.
Published: April 2017

Tegenstrijdige ontwikkelingen mededingingstoezicht in de zorg

Dit artikel behandelt de vraag of kartel- en fusietoezicht in de zorg overeenkomen met de Mededingingswet en onderling consistent zijn. Aanleiding zijn de invoering van de ‘Uitgangspunten toezicht ACM op zorgaanbieders in de eerste lijn’ en het eerste besluit waarin een ziekenhuisfusie is verboden. De conclusie is dat het toezicht niet in overeenstemming is met de wet en bovendien sprake is van tegenstrijdige ontwikkelingen. De Uitgangspunten markeren een overgang van objectieve handhaving van het kartelverbod naar gedogen. Het verbodsbesluit lijkt een overgang van lankmoedig naar strenger fusietoezicht te markeren, maar vooralsnog is onduidelijk of dit objectieve handhaving zal inhouden.
Erfrechtelijke consequenties van een vaststelling van het vaderschap
Authors: Luijten E.A.A. , Meijer W.R.
Published: April 2017

Erfrechtelijke consequenties van een vaststelling van het vaderschap

Een niet-erkend biologisch kind van een erflater stelt na de dood van de laatste een vordering in tot betaling van zijn legitieme portie jegens erflaters erfgenaam en jegens een derde, van wie het kind aanneemt dat deze bevoordeeld is door een schenking van erflater. De rechtbank wijst de vordering op beide wederpartijen toe ex artikel 1:207 lid 5 BW; de hoogte van hetgeen het kind toekomt, dient nader te worden bepaald.
All-Solid-State, PVC Membrane, and Carbon Paste Ion-Selective Electrodes for Determination of Donepezil Hydrochloride in Pharmaceutical Formulation
Authors: Khamees Nesreen , Mohamed Tagreed Abdel-Fattah , Derar Abeer Rashad , Aziz Azza
Published: April 2017

All-solid-state, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane, and carbon paste potentiometric ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) were proposed for the determination of donepezil hydrochloride (DON) in the drug substance and a pharmaceutical formulation. The potentiometric response toward DON was based on the existence ofdonepezil-tetraphenyl borate (DON-TPB) in a PVC membrane or a carbon paste in the presence of dioctylphthalate. In contrast, the solid-state electrode was prepared by direct incorporation of DON-TPB into a commercial nail varnish without external additives. The electrodes exhibited Nernstian slopes of 55.0, 57.0, and 53.0 mV/decade over the concentration ranges of 1 × 10−5 to 1 × 10−3, 1 × 10−4 to 10−2, and 1 × 10−4 to 5 × 10−3 for the solid-state, PVC membrane, and carbon paste electrodes, respectively. The response of the electrodes is independent of pH in the range of 2–≤8. The electrodes showed good selectivity for DON with respect to a number of inorganic cations and amino acids. The electrodes were used for the determination of DON in pure solution and in pharmaceutical tablets with high accuracy (±2%) and precision (RSD ≤2%). The solid-state electrode is simple, economical, and rapid when compared to the PVC membrane and carbon paste electrodes.
Comparative Study Between Multivariate and Univariate Analysis of Two Antidiabetic Combinations
Authors: Abdel-Ghany Maha F , Abdel-Aziz Omar , Ayad Miriam F , Tadros Mariam M
Published: April 2017

New multivariate and univariate methods were developed for the analysis of two novel gliptin combinations by manipulating the zero-order and ratio spectra of empagliflozin and linagliptin in combination, with application on Glyxambi® tablets, and of alogliptin and pioglitazone in combination, with application on Oseni® tablets. Linearity ranges for chemometric approaches using principal component regression and partial least-squares were found to be 2–10, 2.5–12.5, 5–15, and 5–25 μg/mL for empagliflozin, linagliptin, alogliptin, and pioglitazone, respectively, whereas the respective linearity ranges for the spectrophotometric approaches were found to be 5–15, 2–12, 5–15, and 5–15 μg/mL. The proposed spectrophotometric methods included ratio subtraction coupled withextended ratio subtraction, spectrum subtraction coupled with constant multiplication, and mean centering. Acceptable LOD and LOQ values were obtained by all methods. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between multivariate and univariate methods in comparison with the reference methods. The optimized methods provide fast and economic determination of the recently approved antidiabetic combinations without the complex instrumentation or time-consuming mobile phase preparations that were used in the chromatographic techniques reported in the literature.
Validation of MAX Aqueous Extraction on Veratox® for Total Aflatoxin ELISA Test Kit
Authors: Roman Brooke E , Driksna Dana , Abouzied Mohamed M , Klein Frank , Rice Jennifer
Published: April 2017

Neogen Corp. (Lansing, MI) has developed a common aqueous extraction method for the detection of mycotoxins in the ELISA or lateral flow format. The Veratox® for Total Aflatoxin ELISA extraction method uses a MAX 2 extraction packet and water in replacement of traditionally used organic solvents. Veratox for Total Aflatoxin has a detection range of 5–50 ppb neat or up to 300 ppb with dilution. The kit development focused on superior cross-reactivity, ability to accurately detect naturally contaminated samples, and utilization of an aqueous extraction method. In two separate validation studies, the Veratox for Total Aflatoxin test kit resulted in average yields of 91–114% in naturally contaminated mycotoxin reference material corn. The cross-reactivity profiles for aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were 100, 113, 103, and 93%, respectively. This kit is approved by the Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration.
Une romance métaphysique
Authors: Dalissier Michel
Published: April 2017

Nous examinons ici la lecture par Maurice Merleau-Ponty, dans son essai « Le Roman et la Métaphysique », de L’Invitée de Simone de Beauvoir. Nous montrons que pour comprendre en quoi il s’agit ici non seulement de métaphysique, mais encore de morale, il est nécessaire de spécifier en quel sens « Le Roman et la Métaphysique » met en scène des matériaux théoriques qui sont mis en place dans d’autres écrits, en particulier dans l’essai « Le Métaphysique dans l’Homme ». Les personnages du roman, couples et trio, se mettent alors à incarner certes une métaphysique de l’intersubjectivité qui se tend jusqu’à la rupture, mais encore du faire être et de la conscience.
Two-Stroke Low Speed Diesel Engine Simulation Model for NOx Analysis
Authors: Lalić Branko , Račić Nikola , Radica Gojmir
Published: April 2017

All commercial marine engines have to comply with IMO regulations on emissions, especially of nitrogen oxides. This paper describes the gases produced in the combustion process in the diesel engine, and the manner of pollutant creation. Several models of slow-speed diesel engines have been developed and analysed. The characteristics of the simulation model are compared with the characteristics obtained on the testbed, and their differences considered. Using the term for the formation of NOx, as well as independently developed programs in MATLAB, the rate of nitrogen oxide formation was obtained as a function of excess air, pressure and temperature. The reduction of excess air increases adiabatic flame temperature and has an effect on NOx emissions. The obtained results are compared with the actual values measured on the testbed.
Innovative Fast Time Simulation Tools for Briefing / Debriefing in Advanced Ship Handling Simulator Training and Ship Operation
Authors: Benedict Knud , Fischer Sandro , Gluch Michael , Kirchhoff Matthias , Schaub Michele , Baldauf Michael , Müller Burkhard
Published: April 2017

The innovative “Simulation-Augmented Manoeuvring Design, Monitoring & Control” system (SAMMON) based on Fast Time Simulation (FTS) technology was developed at the Institute for Innovative Ship Simulation and Maritime Systems (ISSIMS) of the Maritime Simulation Centre Warnemuende MSCW. The system consists of software modules for (a) Manoeuvring Design & Planning, (b) Monitoring & Control based on Multiple Dynamic Prediction and (c) Trial & Training. It is based on complex ship dynamic models for rudder, thruster or engine manoeuvre simulation under different environmental conditions. It is an effective tool for lecturing and demonstrating ship's motion characteristics, as well as for ship handling simulator training. It allows the trainee to immediately see the results of the actual rudder, engine or thruster commands, without having to wait for the real-time response of the vessel. The Maritime Simulation Centre of AIDA Cruises at Rostock/Germany and the CSMART Center for Simulator Maritime Training of Carnival Corporation at Almere/NL have some experience with the use of this new technology to improve simulator training in Advanced Ship Handling Training courses. Examples of its application in briefing/debriefing and introductory lectures for simulator exercises specifically for typical cruise ships with Twin-Screw and Rudder systems will be presented in the paper and at the conference.
Integrated HIV care and service engagement among people living with HIV who use drugs in a setting with a community‐wide treatment as prevention initiative: a qualitative study in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Collins Alexandra B , Parashar Surita , Hogg Robert S , Fernando Saranee , Worthington Catherine , McDougall Patrick , Turje Rosalind Baltzer , McNeil Ryan
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Social‐structural inequities impede access to, and retention in, HIV care among structurally vulnerable people living with HIV (PLHIV) who use drugs. The resulting disparities in HIV‐related outcomes among PLHIV who use drugs pose barriers to the optimization of HIV treatment as prevention (TasP) initiatives. We undertook this study to examine engagement with, and impacts of, an integrated HIV care services model tailored to the needs of PLHIV who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada – a setting with a community‐wide TasP initiative.

Methods: We conducted qualitative interviews with 30 PLHIV who use drugs recruited from the Dr. Peter Centre, an HIV care facility operating under an integrated services model and harm reduction approach. We employed novel analytical techniques to analyse participants’ service trajectories within this facility to understand how this HIV service environment influences access to, and retention in, HIV care among structurally vulnerable PLHIV who use drugs.

Results: Our findings demonstrate that participants’ structural vulnerability shaped their engagement with the HIV care facility that provided access to resources that facilitated retention in HIV care and antiretroviral treatment adherence. Additionally, the integrated service environment helped reduce burdens associated with living in extreme poverty by meeting participants’ subsistence (e.g. food, shelter) needs. Moreover, access to multiple supports created a structured environment in which participants could develop routine service use patterns and have prolonged engagement with supportive care services. Our findings demonstrate that low‐barrier service models can mitigate social and structural barriers to HIV care and complement TasP initiatives for PLHIV who use drugs.

Conclusions: These findings highlight the critical role of integrated service models in promoting access to health and support services for structurally vulnerable PLHIV. Complementing structural interventions with integrated service models that are tailored to the needs of structurally vulnerable PLHIV who use drugs will be pursuant to the goals of TasP.
Reporting and methodological quality of meta-analyses in urological literature
Authors: Xia Leilei , Xu Jing , Guzzo Thomas J.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To assess the overall quality of published urological meta-analyses and identify predictive factors for high quality.

Materials and Methods

We systematically searched PubMed to identify meta-analyses published from January 1st, 2011 to December 31st, 2015 in 10 predetermined major paper-based urology journals. The characteristics of the included meta-analyses were collected, and their reporting and methodological qualities were assessed by the PRISMA checklist (27 items) and AMSTAR tool (11 items), respectively. Descriptive statistics were used for individual items as a measure of overall compliance, and PRISMA and AMSTAR scores were calculated as the sum of adequately reported domains. Logistic regression was used to identify predictive factors for high qualities.

Results

A total of 183 meta-analyses were included. The mean PRISMA and AMSTAR scores were 22.74 ± 2.04 and 7.57 ± 1.41, respectively. PRISMA item 5, protocol and registration, items 15 and 22, risk of bias across studies, items 16 and 23, additional analysis had less than 50% adherence. AMSTAR item 1, “a priori” design, item 5, list of studies and item 10, publication bias had less than 50% adherence. Logistic regression analyses showed that funding support and “a priori” design were associated with superior reporting quality, following PRISMA guideline and “a priori” design were associated with superior methodological quality.

Conclusions

Reporting and methodological qualities of recently published meta-analyses in major paper-based urology journals are generally good. Further improvement could potentially be achieved by strictly adhering to PRISMA guideline and having “a priori” protocol.
The genomic sequence ofExiguobacterium chiriqhuchastr. N139 reveals a species that thrives in cold waters and extreme environmental conditions
Authors: Gutiérrez-Preciado Ana , Vargas-Chávez Carlos , Reyes-Prieto Mariana , Ordoñez Omar F. , Santos-García Diego , Rosas-Pérez Tania , Valdivia-Anistro Jorge , Rebollar Eria A. , Saralegui Andrés , Moya Andrés , Merino Enrique , Farías María Eugenia , Latorre Amparo , Souza Valeria
Published: April 2017

We report the genome sequence ofExiguobacterium chiriqhuchastr. N139, isolated from a high-altitude Andean lake. Comparative genomic analyses of theExiguobacteriumgenomes available suggest that our strain belongs to the same species as the previously reportedE. pavilionensisstr. RW-2 andExiguobacteriumstr. GIC 31. We describe this species and propose thechiriqhuchaname to group them. ‘Chiri qhucha’ in Quechua means ‘cold lake’, which is a common origin of these three cosmopolitan Exiguobacteria. The 2,952,588-bpE. chiriqhuchastr. N139 genome contains one chromosome and three megaplasmids. The genome analysis of the Andean strain suggests the presence of enzymes that conferE. chiriqhuchastr. N139 the ability to grow under multiple environmental extreme conditions, including high concentrations of different metals, high ultraviolet B radiation, scavenging for phosphorous and coping with high salinity. Moreover, the regulation of its tryptophan biosynthesis suggests that novel pathways remain to be discovered, and that these pathways might be fundamental in the amino acid metabolism of the microbial community from Laguna Negra, Argentina.
Glucan synthase‐like 2 is indispensable for paramylon synthesis in Euglena gracilis
Authors: Tanaka Yuji , Ogawa Takahisa , Maruta Takanori , Yoshida Yuta , Arakawa Kazuharu , Ishikawa Takahiro
Published: April 2017

The phytoflagellate Euglena gracilis produces a large amount of paramylon (PM), a conglomerate of liner β‐1,3‐glucan chains, as a storage polysaccharide. PM is synthesized from uridine diphosphate‐glucose, but its mechanism of formation is largely unknown. Two enzymes, glucan synthase‐like (EgGSL) 1 and EgGSL2 were previously identified as candidates for PM synthesis in a Euglena transcriptome analysis. Here, we performed a reverse genetic analysis on these enzymes. Knockdown of EgGSL2, but not EgGSL1, significantly inhibits PM accumulation in Euglena cells. Additionally, β‐1,3‐glucan synthesis is detected in a PM‐associated membrane fraction extracted from Euglena cells. Our findings indicate that EgGSL2 is the predominant enzyme for PM biosynthesis.
A modeling approach to identify the effective forcing exerted by wind on a prealpine lake surrounded by a complex topography
Authors: Valerio G. , Cantelli A. , Monti P. , Leuzzi G.
Published: April 2017

The representation of spatial wind distribution is recognized as a serious difficulty when modeling the hydrodynamics of lakes surrounded by a complex topography. To address this issue, we propose to force a 3‐D lake model with the wind field simulated by a high‐resolution atmospheric model, considering as a case study a 61 km2 prealpine lake surrounded by mountain ranges that reach 1800 m above the lake's surface, where a comprehensive data set was available in the stratified season. The improved distributed description of the wind stress over the lake surface led to a significant enhancement in the representation of the main basin‐scale internal wave motions, and hence provided a reference solution to test the use of simplified approaches. Moreover, the analysis of the power exerted by the computed wind field enabled us to identify measuring stations that provide suitable wind data to be applied uniformly on the lake surface in long‐term simulations. Accordingly, the proposed methodology can contribute to reducing the uncertainties associated with the definition of wind forcing for modeling purposes and can provide a rational criterion for installing representative measurement locations in prealpine lakes.
A terrestrial weathering and wind abrasion analog for mound and moat morphology of Gale crater, Mars
Authors: Chan Marjorie A. , Netoff Dennis I.
Published: April 2017

A striking feature of Gale crater is the 5.5 km high, central layered mound called Mount Sharp (Aeolis Mons)—the major exploration target for the Mars Science Laboratory rover, Curiosity. Within the 154 km diameter crater, low plains (Aeolis Palous) resemble a moat surrounding Mount Sharp. There is a similar terrestrial analog in the Jurassic Navajo Sandstone of southern Utah, USA, where a distinctive weathering pit 60 m wide by 20 m deep contains a central pillar/mound and moat. Strong regional and local winds are funneled to amplify their velocity and produce a Venturi effect that sculpts the pit via wind abrasion. Although the Navajo pit is orders of magnitude smaller than Gale crater, both show comparable morphologies accompanied by erosional wind features. The terrestrial example shows the impact of weathering and the ability of strong winds and vortices to shape lithified sedimentary rock over long periods of time.
Low‐Temperature Plasma Processing of Platinum Porphyrins for the Development of Metal Nanostructured Layers
Authors: Filippin Alejandro Nicolas , Sanchez‐Valencia Juan Ramon , Idígoras Jesús , Macias‐Montero Manuel , Alcaire Maria , Aparicio Francisco Javier , Espinos Juan Pedro , Lopez‐Santos Carmen , Frutos Fabian , Barranco Angel , Anta Juan Antonio , Borras Ana
Published: April 2017

This article establishes the bases for a vacuum and plasma supported methodology for the fabrication at mild temperatures of nanostructured platinum in the form of porous layers and nanocolumns using platinum octaethylporphyrin as precursor. In addition, the application of these materials as tunable optical filters and nano‐counterelectrodes is proved. On one hand, the transparency in the ultraviolet–visible–near infrared range can be adjusted precisely between 70% and 1% by tuning the deposition and processing conditions, obtaining a high spectral planarity. Deviations of the spectra from an ideal flat filter are below 4%, paving the way to the fabrication of neutral density filters. The transparency limit values yield a sheet resistivity of ≈1350 and 120 Ω □−1, respectively. On the other hand, the catalytic properties of the nanostructures are further demonstrated by their implementation as counterelectrodes of excitonic solar cells surpassing the performance of commercial platinum as counterelectrode in a 20% of the overall cell efficiency due to simultaneous enhancement of short‐circuit photocurrent and open‐circuit photovoltage. One of the most interesting features of the developed methodology is its straightforward application to other metal porphyrins and phthalocyanines readily sublimable under mild vacuum and temperature conditions.
NAD(P)H‐Dependent Dehydrogenases for the Asymmetric Reductive Amination of Ketones: Structure, Mechanism, Evolution and Application
Authors: Sharma Mahima , Mangas‐Sanchez Juan , Turner Nicholas J. , Grogan Gideon
Published: April 2017

Asymmetric reductive aminations are some of the most important reactions in the preparation of active pharmaceuticals, as chiral amines feature in many of the world's most important drugs. Although many enzymes have been applied to the synthesis of chiral amines, the development of reductive amination reactions that use enzymes is attractive, as it would permit the one‐step transformation of readily available prochiral ketones into chiral amines of high optical purity. However, as most natural “reductive aminase” activities operate on keto acids, and many are able to use only ammonia as the amine donor, there is considerable scope for the engineering of natural enzymes for the reductive amination of ketones, and also for the preparation of secondary amines using alkylamines as donors. This review summarises research into the development of NAD(P)H‐dependent dehydrogenases for the reductive amination of ketones, including amino acid dehydrogenases (AADHs), natural amine dehydrogenases (AmDHs), opine dehydrogenases (OpDHs) and imine reductases (IREDs). In each case knowledge of the structure and mechanism of the enzyme class is addressed, with a further description of the engineering of those enzymes for the reductive amination of ketones towards primary and also secondary amine products.

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Chiral determination of cinchonine using an electrochemiluminescent sensor with molecularly imprinted membrane on the surfaces of magnetic particles
Authors: Yuan Xingyi , Tan Yanji , Wei Xiaoping , Li Jianping
Published: April 2017

A novel molecular imprinting electrochemiluminescence sensor for detecting chiral cinchonine molecules was developed with a molecularly imprinted polymer membrane on the surfaces of magnetic microspheres. Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles modified with 6‐mercapto‐beta‐cyclodextrin were used as a carrier, cinchonine as a template molecule, methacrylic acid as a functional monomer and N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide as a cross‐linking agent. Cinchonine was specifically recognized by the 6‐mercapto‐beta‐cyclodextrin functional molecularly imprinted polymer and detected based on enhancement of the electrochemiluminescence intensity caused by the reaction of tertiary amino structures of cinchonine molecules with Ru(bpy)32+. Cinchonine concentrations of 1 × 10−10 to 4 × 10−7 mol/L showed a good linear relationship with changes of the electrochemiluminescence intensity, and the detection limit of the sensor was 3.13 × 10−11 mol/L. The sensor has high sensitivity and selectivity, and is easy to renew. It was designed for detecting serum samples, with recovery rates of 98.2% to 107.6%.
Modeling interactions between a β‐O‐4 type lignin model compound and 1‐allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ionic liquid
Authors: Zhu Youtao , Yan Jing , Liu Chengbu , Zhang Dongju
Published: April 2017

Aiming at understanding the molecular mechanism of the lignin dissolution in imidazolium‐based ionic liquids (ILs), this work presents a combined quantum chemistry (QC) calculation and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study on the interaction of the lignin model compound, veratrylglycerol‐β‐guaiacyl ether (VG) with 1‐allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([Amim]Cl). The monomer of VG is shown to feature a strong intramolecular hydrogen bond, and its dimer is indicated to present important π‐π stacking and intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions. The interactions of both the cation and anion of [Amim]Cl with VG are shown to be stronger than that between the two monomers, indicating that [Amim]Cl is capable of dissolving lignin. While Cl– anion forms a hydrogen‐bonded complex with VG, the imidazolium cation interacts with VG via both the π‐π stacking and intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The calculated interaction energies between VG and the IL or its components (the cation, anion, and ion pair) indicate the anion plays a more important role than the cation for the dissolution of lignin in the IL. Theoretical results provide help for understanding the molecular mechanism of lignin dissolution in imidazolium‐based IL. The theoretical calculations on the interaction between the lignin model compound and [Amim]Cl ionic liquid indicate that the anion of [Amim]Cl plays a more important role for lignin dissolution although the cation also makes a substantial contribution.
Understand, address claims of retaliation to reduce risk and take necessary action
Authors: Porter Michael
Published: April 2017

Retaliation claims are often raised when discrimination based on protected status isn't a viable claim. When an institution of higher education has to take action against a student, an employee, or even a community member, the institution often evaluates whether the action could be viewed as (or is) discriminatory based on a person's immutable characteristics.
Was an administrator treated unfairly because of his race?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: April 2017

Rodney Hampton became assistant athletic director — and head men's basketball coach — at Snead State Community College in 2010.
Essential Oils as Biocides for the Control of Fungal Infections and Devastating Pest (Tuta absoluta) of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)
Authors: Bouayad Alam Samira , Dib Mohammed El Amine , Djabou Nassim , Tabti Boufeldja , Gaouar Benyelles Nassira , Costa Jean , Muselli Alain
Published: April 2017

Thymus capitatus and Tetraclinis articulata essential oils as well their major components (carvacrol and α‐pinene) were evaluated for their antifungal and insecticidal activities. Both oils showed good in vitro antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium sp., Alternaria alternata, and Botrytis cinerea, the fungi causing tomato rot. In vivo results indicate the efficacies of both essential oils and carvacrol of reduce postharvest fungal pathogens, such as B. cinerea and Al. alternata that are responsible of black and gray rot of tomato fruit. Disease incidence of Al. alternata and B. cinerea decreased on average from 55% to 80% with essential oil of Th. capitatus and pure carcvacrol, while Te. articulata essential oil exhibited inhibition of fungal growth of 55% and 25% against Al. alternata and B. cinerea, respectively, with concentration of 0.4 μl/l air. The insecticidal activity of Th. capitatus and Te. articulata essential oils exhibited also a good insecticidal activity. At the concentration of 0.2 μl/ml air, the oils caused mortality over 80% for all larval stages of Tuta absoluta and 100% mortality for the first‐instar after 1.5 h only of exposure. α‐Pinene presented lower insecticidal and antifungal activities compared to essential oils of Th. capitatus, Te. articulata and pure carvacrol. Thus, these essential oils can be used as a potential source to develop control agents to manage some of the main pests and fungal diseases of tomato crops.
A case of a pulmonary artery sling misdiagnosed as refractory asthma for 20 years
Authors: Inui Toshihide , Yamada Hideyasu , Hida Norihito , Terashima Hideo , Saito Takefumi , Hizawa Nobuyuki
Published: April 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report the case of a 25‐year‐old woman with a pulmonary artery sling who was misdiagnosed as having childhood‐onset refractory asthma for approximately 20 years. The use of computed tomography may be useful for diagnosing this rare condition.
NH3 Post‐Treatment Induces High Activity of Co‐Based Electrocatalysts Supported on Carbon Nanotubes for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yang Fengkai , Xia Wei , Maljusch Artjom , Masa Justus , Hollmann Dirk , Sinev Ilya , Cuenya Beatriz Roldan , Schuhmann Wolfgang , Muhler Martin
Published: April 2017

Cobalt oxide nanoparticles were deposited on nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) through impregnation by using cobalt nitrate as a precursor and subsequent drying and calcination. Co loadings were prepared in the range from 4 to 40 wt%, and hydrogen and ammonia were applied in the thermal post‐treatment of the CoOx/NCNT samples. The Co3O4 spinel structure was detected in all samples, while the thermal treatment in ammonia and hydrogen led to the formation of CoO and metallic Co in addition. Treatment in ammonia resulted in the partial reduction of Co3O4 to CoO and nitrogen doping of the oxides, leading to excellent electrocatalytic activity in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and stability despite of the lower Co oxidation states compared with the sample calcined in air. In contrast, the sample reduced in hydrogen showed a lower activity and stability in the OER. The high activity of the ammonia‐treated sample can be assigned to improved conductivity, favorable surface properties with surface nitrogen improving the hydrophilicity of the catalysts, and the more facile transformation to the OER‐active layered cobalt oxyhydroxide phase under anodic conditions.
Synergistic Effect of a Boron‐Doped Carbon‐Nanotube‐Supported Cu Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenation of Dimethyl Oxalate to Ethanol
Authors: Ai Peipei , Tan Minghui , Yamane Noriyuki , Liu Guoguo , Fan Ronggang , Yang Guohui , Yoneyama Yoshiharu , Yang Ruiqin , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: April 2017

Heteroatom doping is a promising approach to improve the properties of carbon materials for customized applications. Herein, a series of Cu catalysts supported on boron‐doped carbon nanotubes (Cu/xB‐CNTs) were prepared for the hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate (DMO) to ethanol. The structure and chemical properties of boron‐doped catalysts were characterized by XRD, TEM, N2O pulse adsorption, CO chemisorption, H2 temperature‐programmed reduction, and NH3 temperature‐programmed desorption, which revealed that doping boron into CNT supports improved the Cu dispersion, strengthened the interaction of Cu species with the CNT support, introduced more surface acid sites, and increased the surface area of Cu0 and especially Cu+ sites. Consequently, the catalytic activity and stability of the catalysts were greatly enhanced by boron doping. 100 % DMO conversion and 78.1 % ethanol selectivity could be achieved over the Cu/1B‐CNTs catalyst, the ethanol selectivity of which was almost 1.7 times higher than that of the catalyst without boron doping. These results suggest that doping CNTs with boron is an efficient approach to improve the catalytic performance of CNT‐based catalysts for hydrogenation of DMO. The boron‐doped CNT‐based catalyst with improved ethanol selectivity and catalytic stability will be helpful in the development of efficient Cu catalysts supported on non‐silica materials for selective hydrogenation of DMO to ethanol.
Arene‐Inserted Extended Germa[n]pericyclynes: Synthesis, Structure, and Phosphorescence Properties
Authors: Tanimoto Hiroki , Mori Junta , Ito Shunichiro , Nishiyama Yasuhiro , Morimoto Tsumoru , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki , Kakiuchi Kiyomi
Published: April 2017

This report describes the synthesis and characterization of arene‐inserted extended (ArEx) germa[n]pericyclynes composed of germanium and 1,4‐diethynylbenzene units. These novel cyclic germanium‐π unit materials were synthesized with diethynylbenzene and germanium dichloride. X‐ray crystallographic analysis revealed their structures, and the planar conformation of ArEx germa[4]pericyclyne along with the regular aromatic rings. UV/Vis absorption spectra and fluorescence emission spectra showed considerably unique and highly improved character compared to previously reported germa[n]pericyclynes. Even in the absence of transition metal components, phosphorescence emissions were observed, and the emission lifetimes were dramatically improved. ArEx germa[n]pericyclynes showed high photoluminescence quantum yields, whereas low photoluminescence quantum yields were observed for acyclic compounds. Density functional theory calculations show delocalized orbitals between skipped alkyne units through a germanium tether, and an increase in the HOMO energy level, leading to a small HOMO–LUMO energy gap.
Persistent Radicals of Self‐assembled Benzophenone bis‐Urea Macrocycles: Characterization and Application as a Polarizing Agent for Solid‐state DNP MAS Spectroscopy
Authors: DeHaven Baillie A. , Tokarski John T. , Korous Arthur A. , Mentink‐Vigier Frederic , Makris Thomas M. , Brugh Alexander M. , Forbes Malcolm D. E. , van Tol Johan , Bowers Clifford R. , Shimizu Linda S.
Published: April 2017

UV‐irradiation of a self‐assembled benzophenone bis‐urea macrocycle generates μm amounts of radicals that persist for weeks under ambient conditions. High‐field EPR and variable‐temperature X‐band EPR studies suggest a resonance stabilized radical pair through H‐abstraction. These endogenous radicals were applied as a polarizing agent for magic angle spinning (MAS) dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) NMR enhancement. The field‐stepped DNP enhancement profile exhibits a sharp peak with a maximum enhancement of ϵon/off=4 superimposed on a nearly constant DNP enhancement of ϵon/off=2 over a broad field range. This maximum coincides with the high field EPR absorption spectrum, consistent with an Overhauser effect mechanism. DNP enhancement was observed for both the host and guests, suggesting that even low levels of endogenous radicals can facilitate the study of host–guest relationships in the solid‐state.
Decipher test impacts decision making among patients considering adjuvant and salvage treatment after radical prostatectomy: Interim results from the Multicenter Prospective PRO‐IMPACT study
Authors: Gore John L. , du Plessis Marguerite , Santiago‐Jiménez María , Yousefi Kasra , Thompson Darby J. S. , Karsh Lawrence , Lane Brian R. , Franks Michael , Chen David Y. T. , Bandyk Mark , Bianco Fernando J. , Brown Gordon , Clark William , Kibel Adam S. , Kim Hyung L. , Lowrance William , Manoharan Murugesan , Maroni Paul , Perrapato Scott , Sieber Paul , Trabulsi Edouard J. , Waterhouse Robert , Davicioni Elai , Lotan Yair , Lin Daniel W.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Patients with prostate cancer and their providers face uncertainty as they consider adjuvant radiotherapy (ART) or salvage radiotherapy (SRT) after undergoing radical prostatectomy. The authors prospectively evaluated the impact of the Decipher test, which predicts metastasis risk after radical prostatectomy, on decision making for ART and SRT.

METHODS

A total of 150 patients who were considering ART and 115 who were considering SRT were enrolled. Providers submitted a management recommendation before processing the Decipher test and again at the time of receipt of the test results. Patients completed validated surveys on prostate cancer (PCa)‐specific decisional effectiveness and PCa‐related anxiety.

RESULTS

Before the Decipher test, observation was recommended for 89% of patients considering ART and 58% of patients considering SRT. After Decipher testing, 18% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 12%‐25%) of treatment recommendations changed in the ART arm, including 31% among high‐risk patients; and 32% (95% CI, 24%‐42%) of management recommendations changed in the salvage arm, including 56% among high‐risk patients. Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS) scores were better after viewing Decipher test results (ART arm: median DCS before Decipher, 25 and after Decipher, 19 [P<.001]; SRT arm: median DCS before Decipher, 27 and after Decipher, 23 [P<.001]). PCa‐specific anxiety changed after Decipher testing; fear of PCa disease recurrence in the ART arm (P = .02) and PCa‐specific anxiety in the SRT arm (P = .05) decreased significantly among low‐risk patients. Decipher results reported per 5% increase in 5‐year metastasis probability were associated with the decision to pursue ART (odds ratio, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.19‐1.85) and SRT (odds ratio, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.09‐1.81) in multivariable logistic regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of Decipher test results was associated with treatment decision making and improved decisional effectiveness among men with PCa who were considering ART and SRT. Cancer 2017;123:2850–59. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Alterations in expression of Cat‐315 epitope of perineuronal nets during normal ageing, and its modulation by an open‐channel NMDA receptor blocker, memantine
Authors: Yamada Jun , Ohgomori Tomohiro , Jinno Shozo
Published: April 2017

The perineuronal net (PNN), a specialized aggregate of the extracellular matrix, is involved in neuroprotection against oxidative stress, which is now recognized as a major contributor to age‐related decline in brain functions. In this study, we investigated the age‐related molecular changes of PNNs using monoclonal antibody Cat‐315, which recognizes human natural killer‐1 (HNK‐1) glycan on aggrecan‐based PNNs. Western blot analysis showed that the expression levels of Cat‐315 epitope in the hippocampus were higher in middle‐aged (MA, 12‐month‐old) mice than in young adult (YA, 2‐month‐old) mice. Although there were no differences in the expression levels of Cat‐315 epitope between old age (OA, 20‐month‐old) and MA mice, Cat‐315 immunoreactivity was also detected in astrocytes of OA mice. To focus on Cat‐315 epitope in PNNs, we used YA and MA mice in the following experiments. Optical disector analysis showed that there were no differences in the numbers of Cat‐315‐positive (Cat‐315+) PNNs between YA and MA mice. Fluorescence intensity analysis indicated that Cat‐315 immunoreactivity in PNNs increased with age in the dorsal hippocampus, which is mainly involved in cognitive functions. Administration of an open‐channel blocker of NMDA receptor, memantine, reduced the expression levels of Cat‐315 epitope in the hippocampus. Furthermore, the numbers of glutamatergic and GABAergic terminals colocalized with Cat‐315 epitope around parvalbumin‐positive neurons were decreased by memantine. These findings provide novel insight into the involvement of PNNs in normal brain ageing, and suggest that memantine may counteract the age‐related alterations in expression levels of Cat‐315 epitope via regulation of its subcellular localization.
Controlled Growth of CH3NH3PbI3 Using a Dynamically Dispensed Spin‐Coating Method: Improving Efficiency with a Reproducible PbI2 Blocking Layer
Authors: Ma Yingzhuang , Vashishtha Parth , Chen Kai , Peach Elijah L. , Ohayon David , Hodgkiss Justin M. , Halpert Jonathan E.
Published: April 2017

It is commonly believed that excess PbI2 has beneficial effects for perovskite solar cells owing to the modification of charge‐transport behavior at interfaces, by surface passivation and by blocking electron‐hole recombination. Here, we introduce a dynamically dispensed spin‐coating technique in a two‐step deposition to form a perovskite layer with controllable quantities of crystalline PbI2. Using this technique, the concentration of CH3NH3I solution is kept constant at the reaction interface, ensuring smooth growth of films. By changing the spinning rate during the reaction, the PbI2 conversion ratio and perovskite cuboid size can be optimized, resulting in a power conversion efficiency improvement over control devices. This dynamically dispensed technique represents a repeatable method for compositional control in perovskite solar cells and improves our understanding of how a PbI2 blocking layer improves the performance of perovskite solar cells.
Seasonal habitat use by Elephants (Loxodonta africana) in the Mole National Park of Ghana
Authors: Ashiagbor George , Danquah Emmanuel
Published: April 2017

To avoid unnecessary waste of limited resources and to help prioritize areas for conservation efforts, this study aimed to provide information on habitat use by elephants between the wet and dry seasons in the Mole National Park (MNP) of Ghana. We compiled coordinates of 516 locations of elephants’ encounters, 256 for dry season and 260 for wet season. Using nine predictor variables, we modeled the probability of elephant's distribution in MNP. We threshold the models to “suitable” and “nonsuitable” regions of habitat use using the equal training sensitivity and specificity values of 0.177 and 0.181 for the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Accuracy assessment of our models revealed a sensitivity score of 0.909 and 0.974, and a specificity of 0.579 and 0.753 for the dry and wet seasons, respectively. A TSS of 0.488 was also recorded for the dry season and 0.727 for the wet season indicating a good model agreement. Our model predicts habitat use to be confined to the southern portion of MNP due to elevation difference and a relatively steep slope that separates the northern regions of the park from the south. Regions of habitat use for the wet season were 856 km2and reduced significantly to 547.68 km2in the dry season. We observed significant overlap (327.24 km2) in habitat use regions between the wet and dry seasons (Schoener's D = 0.922 and Hellinger's‐based I = 0.991). DEM, proximity to waterholes, and saltlicks were identified as the key variables that contributed to the prediction. We recommend construction of temporal camps in regions of habitat use that are far from the headquarters area for effective management of elephants. Also, an increase in water point's density around the headquarters areas and selected dry areas of the park will further decrease elephant's range and hence a relatively less resource use in monitoring and patrols.
The effects of elevated temperature and dissolved ρCO2 on a marine foundation species
Authors: Speights Cori J. , Silliman Brian R. , McCoy Michael W.
Published: April 2017

Understanding how climate change and other environmental stressors will affect species is a fundamental concern of modern ecology. Indeed, numerous studies have documented how climate stressors affect species distributions and population persistence. However, relatively few studies have investigated how multiple climate stressors might affect species. In this study, we investigate the impacts of how two climate change factors affect an important foundation species. Specifically, we tested how ocean acidification from dissolution of CO2 and increased sea surface temperatures affect multiple characteristics of juvenile eastern oysters (Crassostrea virginica). We found strong impacts of each stressor, but no interaction between the two. Simulated warming to mimic heat stressed summers reduced oyster growth, survival, and filtration rates. Additionally, we found that CO2‐induced acidification reduced strength of oyster shells, which could potentially facilitate crab predation. As past studies have detected few impacts of these stressors on adult oysters, these results indicate that early life stages of calcareous marine organisms may be more susceptible to effects of ocean acidification and global warming. Overall, these data show that predicted changes in temperature and CO2 can differentially influence direct effects on individual species, which could have important implications for the nature of their trophic interactions.
Population differences in host plant preference and the importance of yeast and plant substrate to volatile composition
Authors: Date Priya , Crowley‐Gall Amber , Diefendorf Aaron F. , Rollmann Stephanie M.
Published: April 2017

Divergent selection between environments can result in changes to the behavior of an organism. In many insects, volatile compounds are a primary means by which host plants are recognized and shifts in plant availability can result in changes to host preference. Both the plant substrate and microorganisms can influence this behavior, and host plant choice can have an impact on the performance of the organism. In Drosophila mojavensis, four geographically isolated populations each use different cacti as feeding and oviposition substrates and identify those cacti by the composition of the volatile odorants emitted. Behavioral tests revealed D. mojavensis populations vary in their degree of preference for their natural host plant. Females from the Mojave population show a marked preference for their host plant, barrel cactus, relative to other cactus choices. When flies were given a choice between cacti that were not their host plant, the preference for barrel and organ pipe cactus relative to agria and prickly pear cactus was overall lower for all populations. Volatile headspace composition is influenced by the cactus substrate, microbial community, and substrate‐by‐microorganism interactions. Differences in viability, developmental time, thorax length, and dry body weight exist among populations and depend on cactus substrate and population‐by‐cactus interactions. However, no clear association between behavioral preference and performance was observed. This study highlights a complex interplay between the insect, host plant, and microbial community and the factors mediating insect host plant preference behavior.
Deploying Low‐carbon Technologies in Developing Countries: A view from India's buildings sector
Authors: Khosla Radhika , Sagar Ambuj , Mathur Ajay
Published: April 2017

The climate change arena comprises a diverse set of interacting actors from international, national and local levels. The multilevel architecture has implications for low‐carbon technology deployment in developing countries, an issue salient to both development and climate objectives. The paper examines this theme through two inter‐related questions: how do (or don't) low‐carbon technologies get deployed in India's built environment, and what implications can be drawn from the Indian case for effective low‐carbon technology development and transfer for developing countries? By examining the multilevel linkages in India's buildings sector, the paper shows how the interactions between governance levels can both support and hinder technology deployment, ultimately leading to inadequate outcomes. The potential of these linkages is hobbled by aspects of the national context (federated energy governance and developing‐country capacity limitations), yet can also be enabled by other features (the climate policy context, which may motivate international actors to fill domestic capacity lacunae). Reflecting on the India case, the paper makes recommendations for improved low‐carbon technology deployment in developing countries: (1) technology development and transfer collaboration on a ‘need‐driven’ approach, (2) development of the specific types of capacity required across the entire innovation chain and (3) domestic strengthening of the coordination and agendas across and between governance levels. © 2017 The Authors. Environmental Policy and Governance published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Carbonatite‐metasomatism signatures hidden in silicate‐metasomatized mantle xenoliths from NE China
Authors: Su Ben‐Xun , Zhou Xin‐Hua , Sun Yang , Ying Ji‐Feng , Sakyi Patrick Asamoah
Published: April 2017

Lithium isotopes measured in situ in minerals from typical silicate‐metasomatized mantle xenoliths from NE China show that olivine has higher Li abundances of 1.2–4.0 ppm and higher δ7Li values of −0.12–15.46‰ than those in orthopyroxene (Li = 0.56–3.0 ppm; δ7Li = −11.84–7.31‰) and clinopyroxene (Li = 0.21–2.1 ppm; δ7Li = −9.81–14.75‰). The Li distributions between these coexisting minerals show a prominent signature of carbonatite metasomatism. The correlation of δ7Li with Li abundance in orthopyroxene is in accordance with petrological expectation of preferential reaction of orthopyroxene with carbonatite melt. The carbonatite metasomatic agent inferred from the Li isotope systematics is compatible with petrological and geochemical features such as the presence of apatite, appearance of wehrlite, and presence of high‐Mg# minerals and low Ti/Eu in clinopyroxene. The complicated Li isotope composition of olivine implies that carbonatite metasomatism occurred after silicate metasomatism. These features indicate that the predominant silicate metasomatism is extensively recorded by petrology, mineralogy, and geochemistry, whereas Li isotope systematics is more sensitive to subordinate carbonatite metasomatism. The metasomatic melts are inferred to be relatively enriched in 6Li and thus suggests that they were probably derived from a highly dehydrated slab.