bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mapping and functional validation of GLP-1R cholesterol binding sites in pancreatic beta cells
Authors: Oqua Affiong I , Chao Kin , El Eid Liliane , Casteller Lisa , Miguéns Alba , Barg Sebastian , Jones Ben , de la Serna Jorge Bernadino , Rouse Sarah L , Tomas Alejandra
Published: September 2024

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are integral membrane proteins which closely interact with their plasma membrane lipid microenvironment. Cholesterol is a plasma membrane enriched lipid with pivotal roles in the control of membrane fluidity and maintenance of membrane microarchitecture, directly impacting on GPCR stability, dynamics and function. Cholesterol extraction from pancreatic beta cells has previously been shown to disrupt the internalisation, clustering and cAMP responses of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), a class B1 GPCR with key roles in the control of blood glucose levels via the potentiation of insulin secretion in beta cells and weight reduction via the modulation of brain appetite control centres. Here, we unveil the detrimental effect of a high cholesterol diet on GLP-1R-dependent glucoregulation
in vivo
, and the improvement in GLP-1R function that a reduction in cholesterol synthesis using simvastatin exerts in pancreatic islets. We next identify and map sites of cholesterol high occupancy and residence time on active
versus
inactive GLP-1Rs using coarse-grained molecular dynamics (cgMD) simulations, followed by a screen of key residues selected from these sites and detailed analyses of the effects of mutating one of these residues, Val229, to alanine on GLP-1R interactions with cholesterol, plasma membrane behaviours, clustering, trafficking and signalling in pancreatic beta cells and primary islets, unveiling an improved insulin secretion profile for the V229A mutant receptor. This study 1) highlights the role of cholesterol in regulating GLP-1R responses
in vivo
; 2) provides a detailed map of GLP-1R - cholesterol binding sites in model membranes; 3) validates their functional relevance in beta cells; and 4) highlights their potential as locations for the rational design of novel allosteric modulators with the capacity to fine-tune GLP-1R responses.
Predicting the Sequence-Dependent Backbone Dynamics of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins
Authors: Qin Sanbo , Zhou Huan-Xiang
Published: September 2024

How the sequences of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) code for functions is still an enigma. Dynamics, in particular residue-specific dynamics, holds crucial clues. Enormous efforts have been spent to characterize residue-specific dynamics of IDPs, mainly through NMR spin relaxation experiments. Here we present a sequence-based method, SeqDYN, for predicting residue-specific backbone dynamics of IDPs. SeqDYN employs a mathematical model with 21 parameters: one is a correlation length and 20 are the contributions of the amino acids to slow dynamics. Training on a set of 45 IDPs reveals aromatic, Arg, and long-branched aliphatic amino acids as the most active in slow dynamics whereas Gly and short polar amino acids as the least active. SeqDYN predictions not only provide an accurate and insightful characterization of sequence-dependent IDP dynamics but may also serve as indicators in a host of biophysical processes, including the propensities of IDP sequences to undergo phase separation.
Structure and evolution of alanine/serine decarboxylases and the engineering of theanine production
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhu Biying , Qiao Siming , Dong Chunxia , Wan Xiaochun , Gong Weimin , Zhang Zhaoliang
Published: September 2024

Ethylamine (EA), the precursor of theanine biosynthesis, is synthesized from alanine decarboxylation by alanine decarboxylase (AlaDC) in tea plants. AlaDC evolves from serine decarboxylase (SerDC) through neofunctionalization and has lower catalytic activity. However, lacking structure information hinders the understanding of the evolution of substrate specificity and catalytic activity. In this study, we solved the X-ray crystal structures of AlaDC from Camellia sinensis (CsAlaDC) and SerDC from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtSerDC). Tyr341 of AtSerDC or the corresponding Tyr336 of CsAlaDC is essential for their enzymatic activity. Tyr111 of AtSerDC and the corresponding Phe106 of CsAlaDC determine their substrate specificity. Both CsAlaDC and AtSerDC have a distinctive zinc finger and have not been identified in any other Group II PLP-dependent amino acid decarboxylases. Based on the structural comparisons, we conducted a mutation screen of CsAlaDC. The results indicated that the mutation of L110F or P114A in the CsAlaDC dimerization interface significantly improved the catalytic activity by 110% and 59%, respectively. Combining a double mutant of CsAlaDCL110F/P114A with theanine synthetase increased theanine production 672% in an in vitro system. This study provides the structural basis for the substrate selectivity and catalytic activity of CsAlaDC and AtSerDC and provides a route to more efficient biosynthesis of theanine.
When Abstract Becomes Concrete: Naturalistic Encoding of Concepts in the Brain
Authors: Kewenig Viktor , Vigliocco Gabriella , Skipper Jeremy I
Published: September 2024

Language is acquired and processed in complex and dynamic naturalistic contexts, involving simultaneous processing of connected speech, faces, bodies, objects, etc.. How words and their associated concepts are encoded in the brain during real-world processing is still unknown. Here, the representational structure of concrete and abstract concepts was investigated during movie watching to address the extent to which brain responses dynamically change depending on visual context. First, across contexts, concrete and abstract concepts are shown to encode different experience-based information in separable sets of brain regions. However, these differences are reduced when multimodal context is considered. Specifically, the response profile of abstract words becomes more concrete-like when these are processed in visual scenes highly related to their meaning. Conversely, when the visual context is unrelated to a given concrete word, the activation pattern resembles more that of abstract conceptual processing. These results suggest that while concepts generally encode habitual experiences, the underlying neurobiological organisation is not fixed but depends dynamically on available contextual information.
Cell-type-specific origins of locomotor rhythmicity at different speeds in larval zebrafish
Authors: Agha Moneeza A , Kishore Sandeep , McLean David L
Published: September 2024

Different speeds of locomotion require heterogeneous spinal populations, but a common mode of rhythm generation is presumed to exist. Here, we explore the cellular versus synaptic origins of spinal rhythmicity at different speeds by performing electrophysiological recordings from premotor excitatory interneurons in larval zebrafish. Chx10-labeled V2a neurons are divided into at least two morphological subtypes proposed to play distinct roles in timing and intensity control. Consistent with distinct rhythm generating and output patterning functions within the spinal V2a population, we find that descending subtypes are recruited exclusively at slow or fast speeds and exhibit intrinsic cellular properties suitable for rhythmogenesis at those speeds, while bifurcating subtypes are recruited more reliably at all speeds and lack appropriate rhythmogenic cellular properties. Unexpectedly, however, phasic firing patterns during locomotion in rhythmogenic and non-rhythmogenic V2a neurons alike are best explained by distinct modes of synaptic inhibition linked to cell type and speed. At fast speeds reciprocal inhibition in descending V2a neurons supports phasic firing, while recurrent inhibition in bifurcating V2a neurons helps pattern motor output. In contrast, at slow speeds recurrent inhibition in descending V2a neurons supports phasic firing, while bifurcating V2a neurons rely on reciprocal inhibition alone to pattern output. Our findings suggest cell-type-specific, not common, modes of rhythmogenesis generate and coordinate different speeds of locomotion.
CausalXtract, a flexible pipeline to extract causal effects from live-cell time-lapse imaging data
Authors: Simon Franck , Comes Maria Colomba , Tocci Tiziana , Dupuis Louise , Cabeli Vincent , Lagrange Nikita , Mencattini Arianna , Parrini Maria Carla , Martinelli Eugenio , Isambert Herve
Published: September 2024

Live-cell microscopy routinely provides massive amounts of time-lapse images of complex cellular systems under various physiological or therapeutic conditions. However, this wealth of data remains difficult to interpret in terms of causal effects. Here, we describe CausalXtract, a flexible computational pipeline that discovers causal and possibly time-lagged effects from morphodynamic features and cell–cell interactions in live-cell imaging data. CausalXtract methodology combines network-based and information-based frameworks, which is shown to discover causal effects overlooked by classical Granger and Schreiber causality approaches. We showcase the use of CausalXtract to uncover novel causal effects in a tumor-on-chip cellular ecosystem under therapeutically relevant conditions. In particular, we find that cancer-associated fibroblasts directly inhibit cancer cell apoptosis, independently from anticancer treatment. CausalXtract uncovers also multiple antagonistic effects at different time delays. Hence, CausalXtract provides a unique computational tool to interpret live-cell imaging data for a range of fundamental and translational research applications.
A quality improvement project addressing motion artefact on CTPAs in a district general hospital setting: A complete cycle resulting in changed practice.
Authors: Soh Jin Kai , Roszkowski Natalia
Published: September 2024

Introduction: A still breath hold from the patient is one of the key requirements for a diagnostic computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA). It is important for the timely identification and treatment of patients with life threatening pulmonary emboli (PEs). Motion artefact on CTPA can cause blurring, double borders, shading and streaking in the lungs, which can either obscure PEs or create artefact that mimics PEs. This risks patient harm from delayed diagnoses, missed PEs, false positives and extra radiation and contrast exposure due to repeat studies.
Methods: We devised local standards and methodology for assessing the presence and degree of motion artefact on CTs. The study consisted of initial data collection, implementation of changes to clinical practice, and subsequent repeat data collection 3 months after implementation of interventions. For each data collection round, 100 consecutive inpatient and emergency CTPAs performed in a UK District General Hospital were retrospectively identified and images reviewed to categorise each as having either: ‘no significant’, ‘minor’ or ‘major’ motion artefact. There were no exclusions. Interventions after initial data collection included a multidisciplinary meeting with radiographers, department assistants, and radiologists to devise changes to workflow and practices to build in 'rehearsal' of a breath-hold and explanation of breathing instructions with patients before scanning. A prompting phrase for this was added to our CTPA scanning protocol.
Results: Initial results demonstrated that 50% of CTPA showed either minor or major motion artefact, while 50% showed no significant motion artefact. For 2% with minor motion, a clinical reason for why this was unavoidable was provided. Therefore 52% of studies met the proposed local standards. In total, 45% of CTPA were assessed to have minor motion and 5% had major motion artefact (non-diagnostic). 18% of CTPA were positive for PE. Following implementation of changes to practice, repeat data collection demonstrated that 67% of CTPA showed no significant motion artefact. 3% with minor motion provided a clinical reason why this was unavoidable. Therefore 70% of studies met the proposed standard. The increase in compliance with local standards was statistically significant (p=0.00906).
Conclusion: Our interventions improved compliance with local standards from 52% to 70%. We recommend rehearsal of breath-holding with patients before CTPA scans as a quick and easy way to improve the diagnostic quality of scans. A prompting phrase within the CTPA scanning protocol has proven effective.
Non‐Debye frustrated hydration steers biomolecular association: interfacial tension for the drug designer
Authors: Fernández Ariel
Published: September 2016

Many cellular functions involve the assembly of biomolecular complexes, a process mediated by water that gets displaced as subunits bind. This process affects water frustration, that is, the number of unmet hydrogen‐bonding opportunities at the protein–water interface. By searching for least‐frustrated aqueous interfaces, this study delineates the role of frustration in steering molecular assemblage. The search entails a trajectory sampling using a functional that measures the gradient of frustration and computing the resulting non‐Debye electrostatics within relaxation times for coupled protein–water systems. The minimal frustration principle is validated against spectroscopic measurements of frustration‐dependent dielectric relaxation, affinity scanning of protein–protein interfaces, and NMR‐inferred association propensities of protein‐complex intermediates. The methods are applied to drug design, revealing the targetable nature of the aqueous interface.
Sound velocities of olivine at high pressures and temperatures and the composition of Earth's upper mantle
Authors: Zhang Jin S. , Bass Jay D.
Published: September 2016

We present the elastic properties of San Carlos olivine up to P = 12.8(8) GPa and T = 1300(200) K using Brillouin spectroscopy with CO2 laser heating. A comparison of our results with the global seismic model AK135 yields average olivine content near 410 km depth of about 37% and 43% in a dry and wet (1.9 wt % H2O) upper mantle, respectively. These olivine contents are far less than in the pyrolite model. However, comparisons of our results with regional seismic models lead to very different conclusions. High olivine contents of up to 87% are implied by seismic models of the western U.S. and eastern Pacific regions. In contrast, we infer less than 35% olivine under the central Pacific. Strong variations of olivine content and upper mantle lithologies near the 410 km discontinuity are suggested by regional seismic models.
Advances in remote sensing of the daytime ionosphere with EUV airglow
Authors: Stephan Andrew W.
Published: September 2016

This paper summarizes recent progress in developing a method for characterizing the daytime ionosphere from limb profile measurements of the OII 83.4 nm emission. This extreme ultraviolet emission is created by solar photoionization of atomic oxygen in the lower thermosphere and is resonantly scattered by O+ in the ionosphere. The brightness and shape of the measured altitude profile thus depend on both the photoionization source in the lower thermosphere and the ionospheric densities that determine the resonant scattering contribution. This technique has greatly matured over the past decade due to measurements by the series of Naval Research Laboratory Special Sensor Ultraviolet Limb Imager (SSULI) instruments flown on Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) missions and the Remote Atmospheric and Ionospheric Detection System (RAIDS) on the International Space Station. The volume of data from these missions has enabled a better approach to handling specific biases and uncertainties in both the measurement and retrieval process that affect the accuracy of the result. This paper identifies the key measurement and data quality factors that will enable the continued evolution of this technique into an advanced method for characterization of the daytime ionosphere.
The role of localized inductive electric fields in electron injections around dipolarizing flux bundles
Authors: Gabrielse Christine , Harris Camilla , Angelopoulos Vassilis , Artemyev Anton , Runov Andrei
Published: September 2016

We study energetic electron injections by using an analytical model that self‐consistently describes electric and magnetic field perturbations of a transient, localized dipolarizing flux bundle (DFB). This simple model reproduces most injection signatures at multiple locations simultaneously, reaffirming earlier findings that an earthward‐traveling DFB can both transport and accelerate electrons to suprathermal energies, and can thus be considered an important driver of short‐lived (~ < 10 min) injections. We find that energetic electron drift paths are greatly influenced by the sharp magnetic field gradients around a localized DFB. Because a DFB is so localized (only a few RE wide across the tail), there are strong duskward magnetic field gradients on the DFB's dawn flank and strong dawnward magnetic field gradients on its dusk flank. Electrons on the DFB's dawnside therefore ∇B drift farther earthward from the reconnection site, whereas electrons on its duskside can potentially evacuate the inner magnetosphere by ∇B drifting tailward. This results in flux decrease at the front's duskside. As a result, the source of electrons observed during injection depends sensitively on the spacecraft location relative to the DFB and on the DFB's properties. We similarly find that the process of electron energization depends on how the electrons interact with the DFB. The initial injection signature is from electrons that interact with the front and gain the majority of their energy from the increasing magnetic field (∂B/∂t), whereas populations that arrive later gain most of their energy from ∇B drifting across the flow channel and against the DFB's electric fields.
Fusing Sensor Paradigms to Acquire Chemical Information: An Integrative Role for Smart Biopolymeric Hydrogels
Authors: Kim Eunkyoung , Liu Yi , Ben‐Yoav Hadar , Winkler Thomas E. , Yan Kun , Shi Xiaowen , Shen Jana , Kelly Deanna L. , Ghodssi Reza , Bentley William E. , Payne Gregory F.
Published: September 2016

The Information Age transformed our lives but it has had surprisingly little impact on the way chemical information (e.g., from our biological world) is acquired, analyzed and communicated. Sensor systems are poised to change this situation by providing rapid access to chemical information. This access will be enabled by technological advances from various fields: biology enables the synthesis, design and discovery of molecular recognition elements as well as the generation of cell‐based signal processors; physics and chemistry are providing nano‐components that facilitate the transmission and transduction of signals rich with chemical information; microfabrication is yielding sensors capable of receiving these signals through various modalities; and signal processing analysis enhances the extraction of chemical information. The authors contend that integral to the development of functional sensor systems will be materials that (i) enable the integrative and hierarchical assembly of various sensing components (for chemical recognition and signal transduction) and (ii) facilitate meaningful communication across modalities. It is suggested that stimuli‐responsive self‐assembling biopolymers can perform such integrative functions, and redox provides modality‐spanning communication capabilities. Recent progress toward the development of electrochemical sensors to manage schizophrenia is used to illustrate the opportunities and challenges for enlisting sensors for chemical information processing.
Optical Biosensors Based on Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Functionalized with Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Chen Chaopeng , Yang Dongxu , Dong Gongxian , Jia Shujuan , Zhao Bingxin , Yan Lu , Yao Qingqing , Sunna Anwar , Liu Yong
Published: September 2016

Nanocomposites from nitrogen‐doped graphene (NG) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are prepared via an edge‐functionalized ball milling approach, followed by a coprecipitation method. Catalytic peroxidase‐like activity of the resulting MNP/NG is investigated. The as‐synthesized MNP/NG nanocomposites are used to catalyze the colorimetric reaction between hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzo‐thiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS). Typical absorption peaks associated with the oxidation of ABTS are found to increase linearly with increasing H2O2 concentrations up to 10.0 × 10−3 m with a detection limit of 17.1 × 10−6 m. Rapid detection of H2O2 with the use of MNP/NG is confirmed further by a glucose biosensor. Concentrations of glucose could be monitored by detection of H2O2 since H2O2 is generated during oxidation of glucose by glucose oxidase (GOx). The absorption intensity increases significantly with increasing glucose amounts up to 18.0 × 10−3 m glucose, with a detection limit of 59.7 × 10−6 m, indicating a high performance for glucose detection.
High‐rate hydrogen separation using an MIEC oxygen permeable membrane reactor
Authors: Li Wenping , Cao Zhongwei , Zhu Xuefeng , Yang Weishen
Published: September 2016

In this study, we propose using mixed ionic‐electronic conducting (MIEC) oxygen permeable membrane to separate hydrogen via the water splitting reaction. To do that, steam was fed to one side of the membrane (side I) and a low‐purity hydrogen was fed to the other side (side II). Oxygen from water splitting on side I permeates through the membrane driven by an oxygen chemical potential gradient across the membrane to react with the low‐purity hydrogen on side II. After condensation and drying, high‐purity hydrogen is acquired from side I. Thus, the hydrogen separation process is realized based on the fact that the low‐purity hydrogen is consumed and high‐purity hydrogen is acquired. We achieved a high hydrogen separation rate (13.5 mL cm−2 min−1) at 950°C in a reactor equipped with a 0.5‐mm‐thick Ba0.98Ce0.05Fe0.95O3‐δ membrane. This research proofed that it is feasible to upgrade hydrogen purity using an MIEC oxygen permeable membrane. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 1278–1286, 2017
Growth charts for individuals with rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata
Authors: Duker Angela L. , Niiler Tim , Eldridge Grant , Brereton Nga H. , Braverman Nancy E. , Bober Michael B.
Published: September 2016

Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP) is a class of peroxisomal disorders characterized by defective plasmalogen biosynthesis. There are multiple recognized types of RCDP, all of which have autosomal recessive inheritance, and their associated genes are known: RCDP type 1 with PEX7, RCDP type 2 with GNPAT, RCDP type 3 with AGPS, RCDP type 4 with FAR1, and RCDP type 5 with PEX5. Among other medical/developmental issues, plasmalogen deficiency has a direct effect on bone growth and results in postnatal growth failure, the severity of which corresponds to the degree of plasmalogen deficiency. In order to document growth in patients with RCDP, we present detailed growth curves for length, weight, and head circumference derived from retrospective data from 23 individuals with RCDP types 1 and 2 confirmed by molecular and/or biochemical studies. We stratified growth curves by age as well as by plasmalogen level, with those with higher plasmalogens grouped as “non‐classic.” The growth charts presented here provide guidance to families and physician caretakers on the natural course of growth in individuals with RCDP during infancy into early childhood, and thus will have particular utility in setting expectations and guiding optimal feeding interventions in this population.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenotype of 7q11.23 duplication: A family clinical series
Authors: Earhart Beth A. , Williams Marian E. , Zamora Irina , Randolph Linda Marie , Votava‐Smith Jodie K. , Marcy Stephanie N.
Published: September 2016

Duplication 7q11.23 syndrome is the reciprocal of Williams–Beuren deletion syndrome. Studies have reported a recognizable phenotype, including autism, intellectual disability, speech, and language delay, social anxiety, and behavioral difficulties in these individuals. Previous studies revealed a variety of craniofacial abnormalities, brain malformations, and cardiac abnormalities, including aortic dilation. This patient series evaluates five family members aged 2 months to 35 years, all with confirmed 7q11.23 duplication syndrome. All had characteristic craniofacial findings and joint hyperextensibility, and three experienced broken bones/fractures with minimal trauma. Other features included frequent headaches, sleep problems, hydrocephalus, and in two of the children, mildly dilated aortic root, and ascending aorta. Psychological test results reveal borderline to low average nonverbal cognitive abilities and speech and language delays. All five family members with 7q11.23 syndrome meet criteria for autism spectrum disorder. Adaptive functioning is impaired for all four children, but higher for the children's father. The infant shows developmental delays in language and motor skills, but some improvements in reciprocal social behaviors over time. Two children exhibit hyperactivity and inattention, and the father and second youngest child exhibit anxiety. This family clinical series contributes to the growing literature on the phenotype of 7q11.23 microduplication syndrome across the age range. Physicians are encouraged to urge focused medical surveillance and intensive early intervention targeting speech‐language and social reciprocity. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pb2BO3Cl: A Tailor‐Made Polar Lead Borate Chloride with Very Strong Second Harmonic Generation
Authors: Zou Guohong , Lin Chensheng , Jo Hongil , Nam Gnu , You Tae‐Soo , Ok Kang Min
Published: September 2016

A meticulously designed, polar, non‐centrosymmetric lead borate chloride, Pb2BO3Cl, was synthesized using KBe2BO3F2 (KBBF) as a model. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed that the structure of Pb2BO3Cl consists of cationic [Pb2(BO3)]+ honeycomb layers and Cl− anions. Powder second harmonic generation (SHG) measurements on graded polycrystalline Pb2BO3Cl indicated that the title compound is phase‐matchable (type I) and exhibits a remarkably strong SHG response, which is approximately nine times stronger than that of potassium dihydrogen phosphate, and the largest efficiency observed in materials with structures similar to KBBF. Further characterization suggested that the compound melts congruently at high temperature and has a wide transparency window from the near‐UV to the mid‐IR region.
Microplastic in Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Ivleva Natalia P. , Wiesheu Alexandra C. , Niessner Reinhard
Published: September 2016

The contamination of marine and freshwater ecosystems with plastic, and especially with microplastic (MP), is a global ecological problem of increasing scientific concern. This has stimulated a great deal of research on the occurrence of MP, interaction of MP with chemical pollutants, the uptake of MP by aquatic organisms, and the resulting (negative) impact of MP. Herein, we review the major issues of MP in aquatic environments, with the principal aims 1) to characterize the methods applied for MP analysis (including sampling, processing, identification and quantification), indicate the most reliable techniques, and discuss the required further improvements; 2) to estimate the abundance of MP in marine/freshwater ecosystems and clarify the problems that hamper the comparability of such results; and 3) to summarize the existing literature on the uptake of MP by living organisms. Finally, we identify knowledge gaps, suggest possible strategies to assess environmental risks arising from MP, and discuss prospects to minimize MP abundance in aquatic ecosystems.
Preparation, thermostability, and hydrophobic properties ofTiO2/poly(dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate) nanocomposites
Authors: Xiao Zhenggang , Guo Ping , Sun Na
Published: September 2016

Poly(dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate) (PDFMA)/titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanocomposites with high TiO2content were successfully prepared by emulsion polymerization process. Before polymerization, nano‐TiO2was pretreated by silane coupling agent. Surface groups and composition of the modified nano‐TiO2were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectra. The microstructure of nanocomposites was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, the thermo‐stability and wetting behavior were also investigated in relation to the dosage of TiO2. The results showed that the thermostability is improved with the increment of TiO2content while hydrophilic properties exhibit nonlinear variation with the content of TiO2. The optimal percentage of TiO2content in the TiO2/PDFMA nanocomposites is 30% that could lead to the higher thermostability and hydrophobicity properties of composites. The maximum water contact angle (WCA) of nanocomposites can reach 120° ± 1°. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2017,134, 44377.
A new strategy to activate liquid crystal polymer samples for electroless copper deposition
Authors: Atli A. , Simon S. , Cadete Santos Aires F. J. , Cardenas L. , Ehret E. , Lourdin P.
Published: September 2016

In order to activate the polymers for electroless copper deposition, an alternative way of sample preparation is demonstrated. The samples are prepared by incorporation of a small amount (<1 wt %) of palladium, nickel, or copper acetate into the molten Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) in a blender. Since the blending temperature is kept higher than the decomposition temperature of acetates, the acetates are thermally decomposed during blending, leading to the metallic Pd, Ni, or Cu which are used as activators for electroless deposition. After preparing the samples, electroless copper deposition is successfully realized. The influence of different acetates (Pd, Ni, or Cu acetates) on the deposition is investigated. The copper amount is higher and the deposition kinetics is faster on LCP samples with 0.15 wt % Pd and 0.4 wt % Ni than that with 0.4 wt % Cu. The deposited copper layers are uniform and oxide‐free. Moreover, the possibility to substitute expensive Pd activator by cheaper Ni or Cu is shown. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44397.
Cranial Ontogeny of the Early Triassic Basal Cynodont Galesaurus planiceps
Authors: Jasinoski Sandra C. , Abdala Fernando
Published: September 2016

Ontogenetic changes in the skull and mandible of thirty‐one specimens of Galesaurus planiceps, a basal non‐mammaliaform cynodont from the Early Triassic of South Africa, are documented. The qualitative survey indicated eight changes in the craniomandibular apparatus occurred during growth, dividing the sample into three ontogenetic stages: juvenile, subadult, and adult. Changes in the temporal region, zygomatic arch, occiput, and mandible occurred during the transition from the subadult to adult stage at a basal skull length of 90 mm. At least four morphological and allometric differences divided the adult specimens into two morphs, indicating the presence of sexual dimorphism in Galesaurus. Differences include extensive lateral flaring of the zygomatic arches in the “male” morph resulting in a more anterior orientation of the orbits, and a narrower snout in the “female”. This is the first record of sexual dimorphism in a basal cynodont, and the first time it is quantitatively documented in a non‐mammaliaform cynodont. An ontogenetic comparison between Galesaurus and the more derived basal cynodont Thrinaxodon revealed differences in the timing and extent of sagittal crest development. In Galesaurus, the posterior sagittal crest, located behind the parietal foramen, developed relatively later in ontogeny, and the anterior sagittal crest rarely formed suggesting the anterior fibres of the temporalis were less developed than in Thrinaxodon. In contrast, craniomandibular features related to the masseters became more developed during the ontogeny of Galesaurus. The development of the adductor musculature appears to be one of the main factors influencing skull growth in these basal non‐mammaliaform cynodonts. Anat Rec, 300:353–381, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Somatostatin in the Brain of Chinese Alligator Alligator sinensis
Authors: Wang Huan , Zhang Ruidong , Zhang Shengzhou , Zhou Yongkang , Wu Xiaobing
Published: September 2016

In this study, the regional distribution and histological localization of somatostatin (SS) immunoreactive (IR) perikarya and fibers was investigated for the first time in the brain of adult Chinese alligator by immunohistochemical method. The results showed SS‐IR perikarya and fibers were widely distributed in various parts of the brain except for olfactory bulbs. In the telencephalon, SS‐IR perikarya were predominantly located in the cellular layer and deep plexiform layer of dorsomedial and medial cortex, less in the dorsal and lateral cortex, while SS‐IR fibers were found in all layers of the cerebral cortex. SS‐IR perikarya and fibers were also detected in the dorsal ventricular ridge, hippocampus cortex, accessory olfactory bulb nuclearus, lenticular nucleus, and caudate nucleus. In the diencephalon, SS‐IR perikarya and fibers were mainly present in supraoptic nucleus, paraventricular nucleus of hypothalamus, recessus infundibular nucleus, median eminence, the pineal gland and pituitary gland, in which the IR‐fibers were abundant, appearing dot‐shaped and varicosity‐like. In the mesencephalon, they were present in tectum cortex, ependyma of cerebral aqueduct and the periaqueductal grey matter. Additionally, they were also detected in Purkinje's cellular layer of cerebellum, in the reticularis nucleus and raphe nucleus of medulla oblongata. The distribution pattern of SS‐IR perikarya and fibers in the brain of Chinese alligator is generally similar to that reported in other reptiles, but also has some specific features. The wide distribution indicated that SS might be a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator which acts on many kinds of target cells with a wide range of physiological functions. Anat Rec, 300:507–519, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anisotropic Magnetite Nanorods for Enhanced Magnetic Hyperthermia
Authors: Geng Sai , Yang Haitao , Ren Xiao , Liu Yihao , He Shuli , Zhou Jun , Su Na , Li Yongfeng , Xu Chunming , Zhang Xiangqun , Cheng Zhaohua
Published: September 2016

There is an increasing need for new strategies to improve the heating efficiency or the specific absorption rate (SAR) of magnetite (Fe3O4), which is the only FDA approved magnetic material. We propose a facile approach to obtain well‐dispersed highly crystalline Fe3O4 nanorods (NRs) by the reduction of β‐FeOOH in an organic solvent and demonstrate that the SAR of Fe3O4 NRs can be enhanced by tuning their aspect ratios. Fe3O4 NRs with an aspect ratio of 4.5 have a much higher SAR as compared with 15 nm Fe3O4 nanoparticles and Fe3O4 NRs counterparts with an aspect ratio of 10. The highest SAR is greatly increased up to 1072 W g−1 for an ac field of 33 kA m−1 and a concentration of 5 mg mL−1, which is mostly attributed to hysteresis losses. These findings pave a new pathway for the design and synthesis of novel anisotropic iron oxide nanostructures with an optimal heating efficiency for advanced hyperthermia.
The impact of a selective entry examination on children's feelings as they approach the transition to secondary school
Authors: Skipper Yvonne , Douglas Karen M.
Published: September 2016

In the current study we examined how different experiences of a selective entry examination influenced children's feelings about themselves, school and intelligence as they approached transition to secondary school. Children were recruited from three English schools that use a selective entry examination to stream students into secondary schools based on ability (98 children aged around 10) and were assessed at two time points. At Time 1 it had recently decided whether children would take the exam, and at Time 2 children had received their exam results. At each time children completed measures of theory of intelligence, locus of control, self‐esteem and feelings about the school system. At Time 1, children who intended to take the exam showed more positive outcomes than those who did not. However, they were also more likely to hold a fixed view of intelligence, which has been associated with longer‐term negative outcomes. Similarly, at Time 2 children who had passed the exam showed more positive outcomes than those who had failed or had not taken the exam, but again they were more likely to hold a potentially maladaptive fixed view of intelligence. Those who failed the exam were indistinguishable from those who had not taken the exam. These results suggest that passing the selective exam can lead to positive outcomes for children, except in terms of their view of intelligence. However, failing and not being given the opportunity to sit the exam leads to consistently negative outcomes. The potential implications of these results are discussed.
Conceptualising transformative undergraduate experiences: A phenomenographic exploration of students’ personal projects
Authors: Ashwin Paul , Abbas Andrea , McLean Monica
Published: September 2016

Existing ways of understanding the transformative potential of students’ undergraduate experiences either focus solely on the formal educational elements of these experiences or present an overly static picture of students’ intentions in engaging in higher education. In this article we argue that the notion of ‘personal project’ offers a more flexible way of understanding what students are trying to gain from being at university. Based on a phenomenographic analysis of interviews with 31 students over the three years of their degrees, we examine how sociology students’ accounts of their personal projects develop over the three years of their degree programmes and how these relate to their accounts of their integration into their institutions and the development of their intellectual engagement with their discipline. We argue that students’ accounts of their personal projects are relatively stable over the course of their degrees but do not appear to shape the development of their intellectual engagement with their degree programme. What appears to be more significant is whether or not students understand their time at university as an educational experience. Based on this, we argue that the transformative elements of an undergraduate education lie in students developing their personal projects and intellectual engagement through the educational context that is offered at university.
HPLC Quantification of astaxanthin and canthaxanthin in Salmonidae eggs
Authors: Tzanova Milena , Argirova Mariana , Atanasov Vasil
Published: September 2016

Astaxanthin and canthaxanthin are naturally occurring antioxidants referred to as xanthophylls. They are used as food additives in fish farms to improve the organoleptic qualities of salmonid products and to prevent reproductive diseases. This study reports the development and single‐laboratory validation of a rapid method for quantification of astaxanthin and canthaxanthin in eggs of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis М.). An advantage of the proposed method is the perfect combination of selective extraction of the xanthophylls and analysis of the extract by high‐performance liquid chromatography and photodiode array detection. The method validation was carried out in terms of linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery and limits of detection and quantification. The method was applied for simultaneous quantification of the two xanthophylls in eggs of rainbow trout and brook trout after their selective extraction. The results show that astaxanthin accumulations in salmonid fish eggs are larger than those of canthaxanthin. As the levels of these two xanthophylls affect fish fertility, this method can be used to improve the nutritional quality and to minimize the occurrence of the M74 syndrome in fish populations.
Morphological variations of the deltoid ligament of the medial ankle
Authors: Won Hyung‐Jin , Koh In Jun , Won Hyung‐Sun
Published: September 2016

Morphological variations of the deltoid ligament were investigated in this study, with the aim of classifying the different types on the basis of their components. Sixty ankles from 39 cadavers were dissected. The origin and insertion sites of the deltoid ligament were identified, and its length, width, and thickness were measured. The deltoid ligament was divided into two layers, superficial and deep, which respectively comprised four components (tibionavicular, tibiospring, tibiocalcaneal, and superficial posterior tibiotalar ligaments) and two components (anterior tibiotalar and deep posterior tibiotalar ligaments). The tibiospring and tibiocalcaneal ligaments were found in 100% of the specimens, while the prevalence rates of other components lay within the range 63.3–96.7%. The tibionavicular and deep posterior tibiotalar ligaments were the thinnest and thickest, respectively, while the other ligaments had similar thicknesses. The deltoid ligament was classified into types I–IV according to the combinations of these components: all components were present in type I (48.3%), the tibionavicular ligament was absent in type II (36.7%), only the superficial posterior tibiotalar ligament was absent in type III (6.7%), and only the anterior tibiotalar ligament was absent in type IV (8.3%). In conclusion, these results improve knowledge of the morphological and morphometric characteristics of the deltoid ligament and thus provide helpful information for surgical procedures in this region. Clin. Anat. 29:1059–1065, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The forgotten biliary stent: an unusual cause of diarrhea
Authors: Sran Harkiran , Sebastian Joseph , Doughan Samer
Published: September 2016

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the possible complications of biliary stents, which may include migration and impaction in the gastrointestinal tract. It also emphasizes the need for a robust follow‐up system after stent placement, to minimize the risks and possible sequelae of a forgotten stent.
An unusual cause of dyspnea and tachycardia
Authors: Reynolds Ian S. , Coyle Peter , Murray Michael , Waldron Ronan , Barry Kevin
Published: September 2016

Key Clinical Message

Diaphragmatic hernias are typically congenital or caused by trauma. Delayed presentation is not uncommon. Repair can be undertaken through an open or minimally invasive abdominal or thoracic approach. Small defects can be repaired with sutures, while larger defects require a mesh repair. This patient's comorbidities precluded him from surgery.
Congenital insensitivity to pain and anhydrosis due to a rare mutation and that is complicated by inflammatory bowel disease and amyloidosis: a case report
Authors: Bakri Faris G. , Wahbeh Ayman , Abu Sneina Awni , Al Khader Ali , Obeidat Fatima , AlAwwa Izzat , Buni Maryam , Ki Chang‐Seok , Masri Amira
Published: September 2016

Key Clinical Message

Patients with congenital insensitivity to pain and anhydrosis syndrome are at risk for renal amyloidosis and inflammatory bowel disease. Physicians caring for such patients should be aware of these complications.
Greener, Recyclable, and Reusable Ruthenium(III) Chloride/Polyethylene Glycol/Water System for the Selective Hydrogenation of Biomass‐Derived Levulinic Acid to γ‐Valerolactone
Authors: Patil Nilesh M. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: September 2016

A versatile and efficient catalyst for the hydrogenation of biomass‐derived levulinic acid to γ‐valerolactone (GVL) by using a RuCl3/polyethylene glycol (PEG‐400) /H2O catalyst system was developed. The catalysis system was also found to be active for the hydrogenation of levulinate ester. The present protocol proceeded with 99 % conversion and 99 % selectivity towards GVL without the formation of any side products. Remarkably, the reaction did not require sensitive phosphine ligands, a base, additives, or a co‐catalyst to promote the reaction. This method involved the use of environmentally benign PEG‐400 and water as a solvent, which is nontoxic, inexpensive, commercially available, nonflammable, and easy to handle. The RuCl3/PEG‐400/H2O catalyst system could be easily recycled and reused six times with high activity and selectivity.
Solvothermal Synthesis of Mesoporous Manganese Sulfide Nanoparticles Supported on Nitrogen and Sulfur Co‐doped Graphene with Superior Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Li Gangyong , He Binhong , Zhou Minjie , Wang Guoxiang , Zhou Ningbo , Xu Wenyuan , Hou Zhaohui
Published: September 2016

With the aim of enhanced cyclic stability and rate capability for lithium storage of MnS‐based anode materials, a composite consisting of mesoporous MnS nanoparticles and nitrogen and sulfur co‐doped graphene (NS‐G/MnS) can be synthesized by a facile one‐pot solvothermal procedure with thiourea as the single nitrogen and sulfur precursor. The resultant composite serves as an active anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and exhibits a large specific capacity, good rate capability, and excellent cyclic stability. The superior lithium storage property can be ascribed to the synergistic effect between the NS‐G nanosheets and mesoporous MnS nanoparticles. The NS‐G/MnS composite with superior lithium storage properties can be considered as a promising candidate for high‐performance LIB anodes.
Reagentless Electrochemiluminescence from a Nanoparticulate Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM‐1) Immobilized onto Tin‐Doped Indium Oxide
Authors: Madrid Elena , He Daping , Yang Jinlong , Hogan Conor F. , Stringer Bradley , Msayib Kadhum J. , McKeown Neil B. , Raithby Paul R. , Marken Frank
Published: September 2016

In contrast to most common electrochemiluminescence (ECL) techniques that require either an additional reagent or continuous pulsing between oxidative and reductive potentials, here a fluorescent polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM‐1) is shown to exhibit intrinsic ECL without the need for a co‐reactant at positive applied potentials and as a function of pH. PIM‐1 is known to possess high microporosity (based on its rigid and contorted molecular structure) and excellent fluorescence properties. By depositing a nanoparticulate form of the PIM‐1 material onto tin‐doped indium oxide, we achieve a hierarchically porous deposit with good sustained ECL activity in aqueous media. The mechanism for this reagentless ECL is suggested to be linked to reactive oxygen species produced at positive potentials and discussed in terms of potential analytical applications.
Cross‐linking SixOy Cages with Carbon by Thermally Annealing Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane: Structures, Morphology, and Electrochemical Properties as Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Kong Junhua , Wei Yuefan , Lu Xuehong , He Chaobin
Published: September 2016

Chemically cross‐linked SixOy cage clusters embedded in N‐doped carbon were prepared by thermal treatment of octaammonium polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS; (SiO1.5C3H6NH3Cl)8) in an inert environment. Transmission electron microscopic studies show that by annealing at 900 °C, Si‐rich clusters with a size of approximately 5 nm were formed and uniformly distributed in a lighter matrix. XPS analysis indicates that the sample obtained from annealing at 900 °C (P900) has a chemical composition of Si6.5O12.0C9.3N0.5 and it also contains substantial amounts of Si−C and C−O bonds, sp2 C, and a small number of C=N bonds, in addition to Si−O bonds. Together with thermogravimetric analysis, this suggests that the clusters are likely to be formed by chemical cross‐linking several POSS cages through Si−C or C−O bonds, whereas the matrix may be N‐doped carbon that results from carbonization of some detached side‐chains. When used as a lithium‐ion battery anode, P900 exhibits stable and high cycling and rate capacity. The capacity can be maintained for at least 1000 cycles. This is much better than results for anodes made from silicon oxides, which could be ascribed to 1) the less compact but fairly stable Si−O active sites brought by the cage structure and the cross‐linking; 2) the small size of the clusters that ensures smooth and complete lithium insertion/extraction; and 3) the “island–sea” morphology for the clusters‐in‐carbon hybrid that enhances interfacial interactions and facilitates charge conduction.