bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible‐Light‐Driven, One‐pot Amide Synthesis Catalyzed by the B12 Model Complex under Aerobic Conditions
Authors: Tian Hui , Shimakoshi Hisashi , Ono Toshikazu , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: February 2019

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Prof. Dr. Hisashi Shimakoshi at Kyushu University, Japan. The front cover shows “le mariage” of an iridium complex and a vitamin B12 derivative with two wedding rings in the background. This collaboration of two complexes is induced by visible light in the presence of air to achieve green molecular transformations. This protocol was applied to the synthesis of amides from a wide range of trichlorinated organic compounds. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201800522.
Estimating age‐dependent survival when juveniles resemble females: Invasive ring‐necked parakeets as an example
Authors: Senar Juan Carlos , Arroyo Lluïsa , Ortega‐Segalerva Alba , Carrillo José G. , Tomás Xavier , Montalvo Tomas , Sanz‐Aguilar Ana
Published: February 2019

Many species only show sexual dimorphism at the age of maturity, such that juveniles typically resemble females. Under these circumstances, estimating accurate age‐specific demographic parameters is challenging. Here, we propose a multievent model parameterization able to estimate age‐dependent survival using capture–recapture data with uncertainty in age and sex assignment of individuals. We illustrate this modeling approach with capture–recapture data from the ring‐necked parakeetPsittacula krameri. We analyzed capture, recapture, and resighting data (439 recaptures/resightings) of 156 ring‐necked parakeets tagged with neck collars in Barcelona city from 2003 to 2016 to estimate the juvenile and adult survival rate. Our models successfully estimated the survival probabilities of the different age classes considered. Survival probability was similar between adults (0.83, 95%CI = 0.77–0.87) and juveniles during their second (0.79, 95%CI = 0.58–0.87) and third winter (0.83, 95%CI = 0.65–0.88). The youngest juveniles (1st winter) showed a slightly lower survival (0.57, 95%CI = 0.37–0.79). Among adults, females showed a slightly higher survival than males (0.87, 95%CI = 0.78–0.93; and 0.80, 95%CI = 0.73–0.86, respectively). These high survival figures predict high population persistence in this species and urge management policies. The analysis also stresses the usefulness of multievent models to estimate juvenile survival when age cannot be fully ascertained.
Quantifying the links between land use and population growth rate in a declining farmland bird
Authors: Paquet Matthieu , Arlt Debora , Knape Jonas , Low Matthew , Forslund Pär , Pärt Tomas
Published: February 2019

Land use is likely to be a key driver of population dynamics of species inhabiting anthropogenic landscapes, such as farmlands. Understanding the relationships between land use and variation in population growth rates is therefore critical for the management of many farmland species. Using 24 years of data of a declining farmland bird in an integrated population model, we examined how spatiotemporal variation in land use (defined as habitats with “Short” and “Tall” ground vegetation during the breeding season) and habitat‐specific demographic parameters relates to variation in population growth taking into account individual movements between habitats. We also evaluated contributions to population growth using transient life table response experiments which gives information on contribution of past variation of parameters and real‐time elasticities which suggests future scenarios to change growth rates. LTRE analyses revealed a clear contribution of Short habitats to the annual variation in population growth rate that was mostly due to fledgling recruitment, whereas there was no evidence for a contribution of Tall habitats. Only 18% of the variation in population growth was explained by the modeled local demography, the remaining variation being explained by apparent immigration (i.e., the residual variation). We discuss potential biological and methodological reasons for high contributions of apparent immigration in open populations. In line with LTRE analysis, real‐time elasticity analysis revealed that demographic parameters linked to Short habitats had a stronger potential to influence population growth rate than those of Tall habitats. Most particularly, an increase of the proportion of Short sites occupied by Old breeders could have a distinct positive impact on population growth. High‐quality Short habitats such as grazed pastures have been declining in southern Sweden. Converting low‐quality to high‐quality habitats could therefore change the present negative population trend of this, and other species with similar habitat requirements.
Inferring species richness using multispecies occupancy modeling: Estimation performance and interpretation
Authors: Guillera‐Arroita Gurutzeta , Kéry Marc , Lahoz‐Monfort José J.
Published: February 2019

Multispecies occupancy models can estimate species richness from spatially replicated multispecies detection/non‐detection survey data, while accounting for imperfect detection. A model extension using data augmentation allows inferring the total number of species in the community, including those completely missed by sampling (i.e., not detected in any survey, at any site). Here we investigate the robustness of these estimates. We review key model assumptions and test performance via simulations, under a range of scenarios of species characteristics and sampling regimes, exploring sensitivity to the Bayesian priors used for model fitting. We run tests when assumptions are perfectly met and when violated. We apply the model to a real dataset and contrast estimates obtained with and without predictors, and for different subsets of data. We find that, even with model assumptions perfectly met, estimation of the total number of species can be poor in scenarios where many species are missed (>15%–20%) and that commonly used priors can accentuate overestimation. Our tests show that estimation can often be robust to violations of assumptions about the statistical distributions describing variation of occupancy and detectability among species, but lower‐tail deviations can result in large biases. We obtain substantially different estimates from alternative analyses of our real dataset, with results suggesting that missing relevant predictors in the model can result in richness underestimation. In summary, estimates of total richness are sensitive to model structure and often uncertain. Appropriate selection of priors, testing of assumptions, and model refinement are all important to enhance estimator performance. Yet, these do not guarantee accurate estimation, particularly when many species remain undetected. While statistical models can provide useful insights, expectations about accuracy in this challenging prediction task should be realistic. Where knowledge about species numbers is considered truly critical for management or policy, survey effort should ideally be such that the chances of missing species altogether are low.
Covariate and multinomial: Accounting for distance in movement in capture–recapture analyses
Authors: Guéry Loreleï , Rouan Lauriane , Descamps Sébastien , Bêty Joël , Fernández‐Chacón Albert , Gilchrist Grant , Pradel Roger
Published: February 2019

Many biological quantities cannot be measured directly but rather need to be estimated from models. Estimates from models are statistical objects with variance and, when derived simultaneously, covariance. It is well known that their variance–covariance (VC) matrix must be considered in subsequent analyses. Although it is always preferable to carry out the proposed analyses on the raw data themselves, a two‐step approach cannot always be avoided. This situation arises when the parameters of a multinomial must be regressed against a covariate. The Delta method is an appropriate and frequently recommended way of deriving variance approximations of transformed and correlated variables. Implementing the Delta method is not trivial, and there is a lack of a detailed information on the procedure in the literature for complex situations such as those involved in constraining the parameters of a multinomial distribution. This paper proposes a how‐to guide for calculating the correctVCmatrices of dependant estimates involved in multinomial distributions and how to use them for testing the effects of covariates in post hoc analyses when the integration of these analyses directly into a model is not possible. For illustrative purpose, we focus on variables calculated in capture–recapture models, but the same procedure can be applied to all analyses dealing with correlated estimates with multinomial distribution and their variances and covariances.
Making use of multiple surveys: Estimating breeding probability using a multievent‐robust design capture–recapture model
Authors: Oosthuizen W. Chris , Pradel Roger , Bester Marthán N. , de Bruyn P. J. Nico
Published: February 2019

Increased environmental stochasticity due to climate change will intensify temporal variance in the life‐history traits, and especially breeding probabilities, of long‐lived iteroparous species. These changes may decrease individual fitness and population viability and is therefore important to monitor. In wild animal populations with imperfect individual detection, breeding probabilities are best estimated using capture–recapture methods. However, in many vertebrate species (e.g., amphibians, turtles, seabirds), nonbreeders are unobservable because they are not tied to a territory or breeding location. Although unobservable states can be used to model temporary emigration of nonbreeders, there are disadvantages to having unobservable states in capture–recapture models. The best solution to deal with unobservable life‐history states is therefore to eliminate them altogether. Here, we achieve this objective by fitting novel multievent‐robust design models which utilize information obtained from multiple surveys conducted throughout the year. We use this approach to estimate annual breeding probabilities of capital breeding female elephant seals (Mirounga leonina). Conceptually, our approach parallels a multistate version of the Barker/robust design in that it combines robust design capture data collected during discrete breeding seasons with observations made at other times of the year. A substantial advantage of our approach is that the nonbreeder state became “observable” when multiple data sources were analyzed together. This allowed us to test for the existence of state‐dependent survival (with some support found for lower survival in breeders compared to nonbreeders), and to estimate annual breeding transitions to and from the nonbreeder state with greater precision (where current breeders tended to have higher future breeding probabilities than nonbreeders). We used program E‐SURGE (2.1.2) to fit the multievent‐robust design models, with uncertainty in breeding state assignment (breeder, nonbreeder) being incorporated via a hidden Markov process. This flexible modeling approach can easily be adapted to suit sampling designs from numerous species which may be encountered during and outside of discrete breeding seasons.
Disease‐structuredN‐mixture models: A practical guide to model disease dynamics using count data
Authors: DiRenzo Graziella V. , Che‐Castaldo Christian , Saunders Sarah P. , Campbell Grant Evan H. , Zipkin Elise F.
Published: February 2019

Obtaining inferences on disease dynamics (e.g., host population size, pathogen prevalence, transmission rate, host survival probability) typically requires marking and tracking individuals over time. While multistate mark–recapture models can produce high‐quality inference, these techniques are difficult to employ at large spatial and long temporal scales or in small remnant host populations decimated by virulent pathogens, where low recapture rates may preclude the use of mark–recapture techniques. Recently developedN‐mixture models offer a statistical framework for estimating wildlife disease dynamics from count data.N‐mixture models are a type of state‐space model in which observation error is attributed to failing to detect some individuals when they are present (i.e., false negatives). The analysis approach uses repeated surveys of sites over a period of population closure to estimate detection probability. We review the challenges of modeling disease dynamics and describe howN‐mixture models can be used to estimate common metrics, including pathogen prevalence, transmission, and recovery rates while accounting for imperfect host and pathogen detection. We also offer a perspective on future research directions at the intersection of quantitative and disease ecology, including the estimation of false positives in pathogen presence, spatially explicit disease‐structuredN‐mixture models, and the integration of other data types with count data to inform disease dynamics. Managers rely on accurate and precise estimates of disease dynamics to develop strategies to mitigate pathogen impacts on host populations. At a time when pathogens pose one of the greatest threats to biodiversity, statistical methods that lead to robust inferences on host populations are critically needed for rapid, rather than incremental, assessments of the impacts of emerging infectious diseases.
Efficient Bayesian analysis of occupancy models with logit link functions
Authors: Clark Allan E. , Altwegg Res
Published: February 2019

Occupancy models (Ecology, 2002; 83: 2248) were developed to infer the probability that a species under investigation occupies a site. Bayesian analysis of these models can be undertaken using statistical packages such as WinBUGS, OpenBUGS, JAGS, and more recently Stan, however, since these packages were not developed specifically to fit occupancy models, one often experiences long run times when undertaking an analysis. Bayesian spatial single‐season occupancy models can also be fit using the R package stocc. The approach assumes that the detection and occupancy regression effects are modeled using probit link functions. The use of the logistic link function, however, is algebraically more tractable and allows one to easily interpret the coefficient effects of an estimated model by using odds ratios, which is not easily done for a probit link function for models that do not include spatial random effects. We develop a Gibbs sampler to obtain posterior samples from the posterior distribution of the parameters of various occupancy models (nonspatial and spatial) when logit link functions are used to model the regression effects of the detection and occupancy processes. We apply our methods to data extracted from the 2nd Southern African Bird Atlas Project to produce a species distribution map of the Cape weaver (Ploceus capensis) and helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris) for South Africa. We found that the Gibbs sampling algorithm developed produces posterior samples that are identical to those obtained when using JAGS and Stan and that in certain cases the posterior chains mix much faster than those obtained when using JAGS, stocc, and Stan. Our algorithms are implemented in the R package, Rcppocc. The software is freely available and stored on GitHub (https://github.com/AllanClark/Rcppocc).
Highly Luminescent Mono‐ and Dinuclear Cationic Iridium(III) Complexes Containing Phenanthroline‐Based Ancillary Ligand
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Han , Li Min , Peng Hui , Zhang Qian , Wu Shui‐Xing , Xiao Wan‐Qing , Chen Xing‐Liang , Niu Zhi‐Gang , Chen Guang‐Ying , Li Gao‐Nan
Published: February 2019

A new family of mononuclear (1–2) and dinuclear (3–5) cationic iridium(III) complexes have been synthesized and fully characterized. These complexes contain 2‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridine (cf3ppy, L1) and 1‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)isoquinoline (cf3piq, L2) as cyclometalating ligands, 1,10‐phenanthroline (LX‐1) as the ancillary ligand and 1,4‐bis(1‐phenyl‐1H‐imidazo[4,5‐f][1,10]phenanthrolin‐2‐yl)benzene (biphen, LX‐2) as the bridging ligand. The crystal structure of LX‐2 has been determined by X‐ray analysis. All of the complexes are green‐red emissive with quantum yields of 16.6–93.5 % and lifetimes of 1.66–2.89 µs in solution at room temperature. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been carried out to gain insight into the nature of the low‐lying transitions and also to rationalize the electrochemical and photophysical properties. These research results reveal that the π‐conjugation system of C^N ligands and the diiridium system with conjugated bridging ligand are both benefical for the red‐shift of the absorption and emission spectra.
Highly Functionalized Brønsted Acidic/Lewis Basic Hybrid Ferrocene Ligands: Synthesis and Coordination Chemistry
Authors: Radal Léa , Vosáhlo Petr , Roger Julien , Cattey Hélène , Amardeil Régine , Císařová Ivana , Štěpnička Petr , Pirio Nadine , Hierso Jean‐Cyrille
Published: February 2019

A general challenging issue in the synthesis of hemilabile ferrocene ligands is the access to highly functionalized ferrocene starting materials. These can bear donor/acceptor atoms, additional functional and structuring spectator substituents, but the preparation of such species poses general synthetic difficulties. We report herein alternative synthetic routes to hybrid ferrocene donors such as tert‐butylated phosphanylcarboxylic acids and their corresponding aldehydes. These hybrid ambiphilic species that combine Brønsted‐acidic and Lewis‐basic functional moieties in their structure were characterized by multinuclear NMR and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. In the solid state, the mutual arrangement of functional groups at the ferrocene unit is highly dependent on hydrogen bonding interactions despite the structural hindering effect of the tert‐butyl groups introduced. The ligands were converted to gold(I) complexes and phosphane selenides to further monitor the properties and mutual influence of the functional groups in the prepared compounds.
An Overview of Portuguese Olive Oils and Table Olives with Protected Designation of Origin
Authors: Albuquerque Tânia Gonçalves , Costa Helena S. , Oliveira Maria Beatriz P. P.
Published: February 2019

Over the years, consumers’ interest in the diet and health relationship has increased with a demand for high quality foods. To protect consumers, but also producers from unfair practices, European Union (EU) has launched legislation on different EU quality schemes, namely Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), and Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG). This work provides an overview of research concerning Portuguese PDO olive oils and table olives. EU quality schemes applied to agricultural products and foodstuffs are increasing over the years, Portugal being the fourth European country with the highest percentage of registered foods. Up to now, Portugal has registered six olive oils and two table olives as PDO. There is a lack of physicochemical data for Portuguese PDO olive products, especially for table olives. Nonetheless, differences linked to the origin of the olive oils are reported, including within the same region of origin. For instance, a range between 95.9 and 260 mg kg−1 for α‐tocopherol was reported for PDO Azeite de Trás‐os‐Montes, while for PDO Azeites do Norte Alentejano it varied from 92.6 to 198 mg kg−1. Further studies, especially concerning parameters that allow confirming the authenticity and origin of Portuguese PDO olive oils and table olives, are crucial.

Practical Applications: Six olive oils and two table olives from Portugal are already registered with PDO. Phytochemical data for these products is scarce. Further studies to evaluate authenticity are needed.

Of the table olives and olive oils already registered with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), there are eight products belonging to the five main regions of Portugal (Trás‐os Montes, Beira Litoral, Beira Interior, Ribatejo, and Alentejo). Furthermore, these PDO products are linked to the history and cultural heritage of these places, being crucial for some local producers and for consumers.
Use of Protease from Seabass Pyloric Caeca in Combination with Repeated Freeze–Thawing Cycles Increases the Production Efficiency of Virgin Coconut Oil
Authors: Patil Umesh , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: February 2019

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is separated from coconut milk using partially purified protease from seabass pyloric caeca (PPSP) in combination with different treatments including micro‐fluidization, chill–thawing, and freeze–thawing. The lowest VCO yield is obtained for coconut milk homogenized at 4000 psi, followed by hydrolysis using PPSP at the level of 5 units g−1 proteins. Conversely, the higher VCO yield is obtained from non‐homogenized and unhydrolyzed coconut milk (p < 0.05). Coconut milk hydrolyzed by PPSP at 10 units g−1 protein, followed by freeze–thawing shows the highest yield among all the samples (p < 0.05). VCO yield increases as chill–thawing cycles of hydrolyzed coconut milk increases up to 5 cycles (p < 0.05). A similar trend is found in sample subjected to hydrolysis, followed by freeze–thawing. Hydrolysis by PPSP, followed by freeze–thawing of 5 cycles, yields the highest yield of VCO (98.6%). No marked difference is observed in fatty acid profile, moisture content, free fatty acid content, and oxidative stability of all VCO obtained, regardless of subsequent chill–thawing and freeze–thawing applied. All VCO samples are in the range of APCC standards. Thus, combined treatment including hydrolysis using PPSP followed by freeze–thawing (5 cycles) is a powerful method for extraction of VCO, in which high yield and prime quality could be gained.

Practical Applications: In VCO production, the cost of commercial enzyme and yield of VCO are of major concern. Therefore, a cheap source of proteases, particularly fish processing byproducts, can be a promising alternative for VCO production. Additionally, a combined method, especially enzymatic hydrolysis of coconut milk followed by freeze–thawing, can be a practical process to obtain VCO with increased yield. The information on combined methods can be of benefit in manufacturing VCO with reduced cost and high yield.

The use of protease from seabass pyloric caeca in combination with repeated freeze‐thawing cycles increases the production efficiency of virgin coconut oil.
Total Synthesis of Lophirone F Hexamethyl Ether
Authors: Le Hoang M. , Mac Hung D. , Oh Chang Ho , Do Dung T.
Published: February 2019

A practical and efficient approach for the total synthesis of the (±)‐lophirone F hexamethyl ether was reported. The compound was synthesized in 8 steps with a 14.6 % overall yield. The key features of this synthesis are the stereoselective synthesis of a 2,5‐diaryl‐3,4‐disubstituted tetrahydrofuran skeleton via a sequence of [3+2] cycloaddition/Krapcho decarboxylation and the installation of two aryl ketone groups bypassing potential epimerization of adjacent stereocenters.
Ketamine infusion for 96 hr after thoracotomy: Effects on acute and persistent pain
Authors: Chumbley Gillian M. , Thompson Lindsey , Swatman Joanna E. , Urch Catherine
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Pain which persists after thoracotomy is well recognized, and activation of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor could be a contributing factor. This study sought to establish whether ketamine given peri‐operatively could reduce persistent post‐surgical pain.

Trial design

Double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial comparing low‐dose intravenous ketamine and saline placebo.

Methods

Seventy patients undergoing thoracotomy were randomized to receive either intravenous ketamine (0.1 mg kg−1 hr−1) or saline placebo for 96 hr, starting 10 min prior to surgery. A bolus dose of 0.1 mg/kg of ketamine/placebo was given prior to starting the infusion. Post‐operative analgesia consisted of either an epidural infusion or patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA), +/− a paravertebral infusion of local anaesthetic. Pain scores and opioid consumption were collected at 24 and 48 hr after surgery. Patients completed numeric pain scores (NPS), modified Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), the short form Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S‐Lanss) at baseline, 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Results

There were no significant differences in post‐operative pain, except the ketamine group reported less pain at rest 48 hr after surgery (p = 0.03). The ketamine group requested significantly less morphine via PCA in the first 24 hr (p = 0.03). There were no differences in pain measures or opioid consumption at 6 weeks, 3, 6 or 12 months. Patients in the ketamine group were more lightheaded (p = 0.02) and experienced more vivid dreams (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Ketamine reduced opioid consumption compared to placebo after surgery, but we were unable to detect any differences in persistent post‐surgical pain between the groups.

Significance

This study adds to the growing body of evidence advocating the use of ketamine to reduce opioid consumption. No previous studies of peri‐operative ketamine have followed patients for a year after thoracotomy. This study found no reduction in persistent post‐surgical pain.
Development of Molybdenum Phosphide Catalysts for Higher Alcohol Synthesis from Syngas by Exploiting Support and Promoter Effects
Authors: ten Have Iris C. , Valle Eduardo , Gallo Alessandro , Snider Jonathan L. , Duyar Melis S. , Jaramillo Thomas F.
Published: February 2019

Molybdenum phosphide (MoP) catalysts have recently attracted attention due to their robust methanol synthesis activity from CO/CO2. Synthesis strategies are used to steer MoP selectivity toward higher alcohols by investigating the promotion effects of alkali (K) and CO‐dissociating (Co, Ni) and non‐CO‐dissociating (Pd) metals. A systematic study with transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) showed that critical parameters governing the activity of MoP catalysts are P/Mo ratio and K loading, both facilitating MoP formation. The kinetic studies of mesoporous silica‐supported MoP catalysts show a twofold role of K, which also acts as an electronic promoter by increasing the total alcohol selectivity and chain length. Palladium (Pd) increases CO conversion, but decreases alcohol chain length. The use of mesoporous carbon (MC) support has the most significant effect on catalyst performance and yields a KMoP/MC catalyst that ranks among the state‐of‐the‐art in terms of selectivity to higher alcohols.
An experimental investigation of direct biodiesel production from castor seed using waste resource as economical catalyst
Authors: Moradi Gholamreza , Ghanadi Tanaz
Published: February 2019

The aim of present study is to evaluate the feasibility of using Soxhlet extractor to produce biodiesel from castor seed in one step. At first, oil extraction was conducted by using methanol and acetone as solvents. The results indicated that with methanol to acetone volume ratio 2:1 in a time of 6 h and oil bath temperature of 75°C, maximum oil extraction yield was achieved. Then the parameters, which had effect on direct biodiesel production of castor seed, were investigated through experimental design. Demineralized water plant sedimentation as an economic catalyst for direct biodiesel production was applied. The findings of statistical analysis showed that all of the parameters had a significant effect on fatty acid methyl ester yield. The optimum conditions that obtained from second‐order model were catalyst concentration of 5.81 wt % and solvent to seed weight ratio 4.53:1 in methanol to acetone volume ratio 2:1, reaction temperature 75°C, and reaction time of 8 h. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019
Metal(II) Formates (M = Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) Stabilized by Tetramethylethylenediamine (tmeda): Convenient Molecular Precursors for the Synthesis of Supported Nanoparticles
Authors: Margossian Tigran , Larmier Kim , Allouche Florian , Chan Ka Wing , Copéret Christophe
Published: February 2019

γ‐Alumina supported 3d transition‐metal nanoparticles are commonly used catalysts for several industrial reactions, such as Fischer‐Tropsch, reforming, methanation, and hydrogenation reactions. However, the activity of such catalyst is often limited by the low metal dispersion and a high content of irreducible metal, inherent to the conventional preparation methods in aqueous phase. In this context, we have recently shown that [{Ni(μ2‐OCHO)(OCHO)(tmeda)}2(μ2‐OH2)] (tmeda=tetramethylethylenediamine) is a suitable molecular precursor for the formation of 1–2 nm large nanoparticles onto alumina. Here, we explore the synthesis of the corresponding Fe, Co, and Cu molecular precursors, namely [{Fe(μ2‐OCHO)(OCHO)(tmeda)}4], [{Co(μ2‐OCHO)(OCHO)(tmeda)}2(μ2‐OH2 )], [Cu(κ2‐OCHO)2(tmeda)], which are, like the Ni precursor, soluble in a range of solvents, rendering them convenient metal precursors for the preparation of supported metallic nanoparticles on γ‐alumina. Using a specific adsorption of the molecular precursor on γ‐alumina in a suitable organic solvent, treatment under H2 provides small and narrowly distributed Fe (2.5±0.9 nm), Co (3.0±1.2 nm), Ni (1.7±0.5 nm), and Cu (2.1±1.5 nm) nanoparticles. XAS shows that the proportion of MAl2O4 (M = Co, Ni, Cu) is small, thus illustrating the advantage of using these tailor‐made molecular precursors.
β1 Integrin is essential for fascin‐mediated breast cancer stem cell function and disease progression
Authors: Barnawi Rayanah , Al‐Khaldi Samiyah , Colak Dilek , Tulbah Asma , Al‐Tweigeri Taher , Fallatah Mohannad , Monies Dorota , Ghebeh Hazem , Al‐Alwan Monther
Published: February 2019

Breast cancer remains the second cause of tumor‐related mortality in women worldwide mainly due to chemoresistance and metastasis. The chemoresistance and metastasis are attributed to a rare subpopulation with enriched stem‐like characteristics, thus called Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs). We have previously reported aberrant expression of the actin‐bundling protein (fascin) in breast cancer cells, which enhances their chemoresistance, metastasis and enriches CSC population. The intracellular mechanisms that link fascin with its downstream effectors are not fully elucidated. Here, loss and gain of function approaches in two different breast cancer models were used to understand how fascin promotes disease progression. Importantly, findings were aligned with expression data from actual breast cancer patients. Expression profiling of a large breast cancer dataset (TCGA, 530 patients) showed statistically significant correlation between fascin expression and a key adherence molecule, β1 integrin (ITGB1).In vitromanipulation of fascin expression in breast cancer cells exhibited its direct effect on ITGB1 expression. Fascin‐mediated regulation of ITGB1 was critical for several breast cancer cell functions including adhesion to different extracellular matrix, self‐renewability and chemoresistance. Importantly, there was a significant relationship between fascin and ITGB1 co‐expression and short disease‐free as well as overall survival in chemo‐treated breast cancer patients. This novel role of fascin effect on ITGB1 expression and its outcome on cell self‐renewability and chemoresistance strongly encourages for dual targeting of fascin‐ITGB1 axis as a therapeutic approach to halt breast cancer progression and eradicate it from the root.
Transcriptome analysis of luminal breast cancer reveals a role for LOL in tumor progression and tamoxifen resistance
Authors: Sun Wei , Xu Xiaoen , Jiang Yizhou , Jin Xi , Zhou Ping , Liu Yirong , Guo Yajie , Ma Ding , Zuo Wenjia , Huang Shenglin , He Xianghuo , Shao Zhiming
Published: February 2019

Luminal breast cancer (BC) has a sustained risk of late disease recurrence and death. Considerable numbers of patients suffer from antiendocrine therapy resistance. Here, we identified a novel lncRNA whose expression is high in breast cancer and especially higher in luminal breast cancer, dubbed LOL (lncRNA of luminal), that acts as a natural sponge for let‐7 microRNAs to regulate tumor growth and tamoxifen resistance. LOL overexpression in parental MCF‐7 cells exhibited a proliferative advantage in the addition of tamoxifen than negative control. Knocking down LOL in TamR MCF‐7 cells, recovered the sensitivity of cells to tamoxifen. Strikingly, we demonstrated that LOL is transcribed from a genomic locus of an enhancer to maintain its high expression in luminal BC and that it is extremely sensitive to enhancer‐regulating factors, such as ZMYND8 and BRD4. Estrogen deprivation or ERα signaling pathway blockage can further stimulate LOL expression, which can promote tumor progression. Clinical analysis of 374 luminal breast cancer samples indicated that LOL is an independent prognostic factor for poor survival in luminal BC. In conclusion, targeting LOL using preclinical/clinical drugs, such as BRD4 inhibitors, may represent a promising approach to inhibit luminal breast cancer progression and tamoxifen resistance.
EGFR‐targeted therapy alters the tumor microenvironment in EGFR‐driven lung tumors: Implications for combination therapies
Authors: Jia Yijun , Li Xuefei , Jiang Tao , Zhao Sha , Zhao Chao , Zhang Limin , Liu Xiaozhen , Shi Jinpeng , Qiao Meng , Luo Jiawei , Liu Sangtian , Han Ruoshuang , Su Chunxia , Ren Shengxiang , Zhou Caicun
Published: February 2019

Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed cell death receptor/ligand 1 (PD‐1/PD‐L1) pathway have profoundly improved the clinical management of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nevertheless, the superiority of single‐agent PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors in pretreated EGFR mutant patients has turned out to be moderate. One proposed mechanism for poor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors is an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we utilized two autochthonous EGFR‐driven lung tumor models to investigate dynamic microenvironmental responses to EGFR‐TKI treatment. We observed that at an early stage, sensitive EGFR‐TKIs caused obvious tumor shrinkage accompanied by increased cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and dendritic cells, eradication of Foxp3+ Tregs, and inhibition of M2‐like polarization of macrophages. However, the tumor microenvironmental changes that may be most beneficial for combination treatment with immune‐mediated anticancer approaches were only temporary and disappeared as treatment continued. Meanwhile, the level of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), particularly mononuclear MDSCs, was consistently elevated throughout the treatment. Analysis of inflammatory factors in serum showed that EGFR‐TKIs increased the levels of IL‐10 and CCL‐2. Our study systematically analyzed dynamic changes in tumor microenvironments responding to EGFR‐TKIs in vivo. The results have implications for combination therapy using EGFR‐TKIs. The optimal sequence of the treatment and strategies that modulate the tumor microenvironment to a state that may favor antitumor immune responses need to be considered when designing clinical trials.
Effects of male postpartum depression on father–infant interaction: The mediating role of face processing
Authors: Koch Sabrina , De Pascalis Leonardo , Vivian Fabielle , Meurer Renner Anelise , Murray Lynne , Arteche Adriane
Published: February 2019

It is estimated that postpartum depression affects up to 25% of men. Despite such high prevalence, the majority of studies on postpartum depression are focused on mothers, and the role of paternal depression and its effects on infant development have been overlooked by researchers and clinicians. The present study aimed to fill this gap by investigating the effect of paternal postpartum depression on father–infant interactions. In addition, we examined whether differences in face recognition mediated the effects of paternal postpartum depression on father–infant interactions. A total of 61 father–infant dyads (17 postpartum depression, 44 controls) took part in the study. Results revealed that compared to controls, fathers with postpartum depression had a worse pattern of interaction with their infants on measures of responsiveness, mood, and sensitivity; they also had greater difficulty in recognizing happy adult faces, but greater facility in recognizing sad adult faces. Depressed fathers attributed greater intensities to sad adult and infant faces. The tendency to attribute greater intensity to sad adult faces was confirmed as a partial mediator of the effect of paternal postpartum depression on measures of father responsiveness and as a full mediator of the effects of paternal depression on father sensitivity. Clinical implications and suggestions for further studies are discussed.
Bubbles and crises: Replicating the Anundsen et al. (2016) results
Authors: Fu Bowen
Published: February 2019

This paper both narrowly and widely replicates the results of Anundsen et al. (Journal of Applied Econometrics, 2016, 31(7), 1291–1311). I am able to reproduce the same results as theirs. Furthermore, I find that allowing for time‐varying parameters of early warning system models can considerably improve the in‐sample model fit and out‐of‐sample forecasting performance based on an expanding window forecasting exercise.
To pool or not to pool: What is a good strategy for parameter estimation and forecasting in panel regressions?
Authors: Wang Wendun , Zhang Xinyu , Paap Richard
Published: February 2019

This paper considers estimating the slope parameters and forecasting in potentially heterogeneous panel data regressions with a long time dimension. We propose a novel optimal pooling averaging estimator that makes an explicit trade‐off between efficiency gains from pooling and bias due to heterogeneity. By theoretically and numerically comparing various estimators, we find that a uniformly best estimator does not exist and that our new estimator is superior in nonextreme cases and robust in extreme cases. Our results provide practical guidance for the best estimator and forecast depending on features of data and models. We apply our method to examine the determinants of sovereign credit default swap spreads and forecast future spreads.
Raman exfoliative cytology for prognosis prediction in oral cancers: A proof of concept study
Authors: Sahu Aditi , Gera Poonam , Malik Akshat , Nair Sudhir , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Murali Krishna C.
Published: February 2019

Oral cancer is associated with high rates of recurrence, attributable to field cancerization. Early detection of advanced field changes that can potentially progress to carcinoma can facilitate timely intervention and can lead to improved prognosis. Previous in vivo studies have successfully detected advanced field effects in oral cancers. Raman exfoliative cytology has previously shown to differentiate normal, oral pre‐cancer and cancers. The present study explores Raman‐exfoliative‐cytology‐based detection of field effects. Exfoliated cells were collected from tumor (n = 16) and contralateral‐normal appearing mucosa (n = 16) of oral cancer patients, and healthy tobacco habitués (n = 20). After spectral acquisition, specimens were Pap‐stained for cytological evaluation. Data analysis, by Principal Component Analysis and Principal Component‐Linear Discriminant Analysis, indicate several spectral‐misclassifications between contralateral normal and tumor, which were investigated and correlated with spectral, cytological and clinical outcomes. A qualitative analysis by grouping patients with number of misclassifications with tumor (Group 1: 0, Group 2: 1 and Group 3: >1) was explored. Group 3 with highest misclassifications showed spectral and cytological similarity to tumor group — one patient was a case of early inoperable residual disease, despite clear margins on histopathology. Thus, these misclassifications could be indicative of cancer field changes, and can prospectively help to identify patients susceptible to recurrences

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Engineering molecularly mobile polyrotaxane surfaces with heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factors for improving hepatocyte functions
Authors: Arisaka Yoshinori , Yui Nobuhiko
Published: February 2019

Hepatocytes in vitro may be useful for treating various types of liver diseases, but these cells immediately lose their functions. Here, we designed sulfonated‐polyrotaxane (PRX) surfaces with immobilized heparin binding‐epidermal growth factor‐like growth factors (HB‐EGFs) for improving hepatic functions. Sulfonated‐PRX triblock copolymers, composed of sulfopropyl ether‐modified α‐cyclodextrins (α‐CDs) threaded onto a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chain as a PRX segment and poly(benzyl methacrylate) at both terminals of the PEG as anchoring segments, were coated onto polystyrene surfaces by a drop cast method. The sulfonated‐PRX surfaces with a small number of threading α‐CDs induced cytoplasmic localization of yes‐associated proteins in HepG2 cells. Moreover, immobilization of HB‐EGFs onto the sulfonated‐PRX surfaces with a small number of threading α‐CDs promoted hepatic functions, including albumin secretion and gene expression. These results suggest that the combination of modulating the mobility of PRXs and immobilizing growth factors is effective for improving hepatic functions. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1080–1085, 2019.
Redox‐active injectable gel using polyion complex to achieve sustained release of exenatide and enhance therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ishii Shiro , Sakaue Sho , Nagasaki Yukio
Published: February 2019

To provide sustained release of exenatide and enhance therapeutic efficacy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes compared to the existing products for exenatide, we developed an exenatide‐loaded, redox‐active, injectable gel (Exe@RIG). This injectable gel is formed by a polyion complex (PIC) comprising three components, (1) cationic polyamine–poly(ethylene glycol)–polyamine triblock copolymer possessing reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging moieties as side chains, (2) anionic poly(acrylic acid), and (3) exenatide. The mixture formed exenatide‐loaded PIC flower micelles at room temperature, which immediately converted to a gel under physiological conditions. Owing to electrostatic interactions between exenatide and the PIC gel network, RIG was able to provide sustained release of exenatide without a significant initial burst. Subcutaneous injection of Exe@RIG once a week prevented the increase in glucose concentration significantly in db/db mice compared to those in control groups. In addition, Exe@RIG suppressed the degeneration of pancreatic islets, which is reported to be caused by increased ROS. Our result indicates that Exe@RIG has the potential to provide a long acting exenatide as well as enhanced efficacy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes compared to the existing products. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1107–1113, 2019.
Cooperation of PU.1 With IRF8 and NFATc1 Defines Chromatin Landscapes During RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Izawa Naohiro , Kurotaki Daisuke , Nomura Seitaro , Fujita Takanori , Omata Yasunori , Yasui Tetsuro , Hirose Jun , Matsumoto Takumi , Saito Taku , Kadono Yuho , Okada Hiroyuki , Miyamoto Takeshi , Tamura Tomohiko , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Tanaka Sakae
Published: February 2019

Receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) induces osteoclast (OC) differentiation from bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs). The transcription factors nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFATc1) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF) 8 play positive and negative roles, respectively, in this process. However, genomewide mapping of the active cis-regulatory elements regulating OC differentiation has not been performed, and little is known about the global landscape of OC-specific gene regulation. We used chromatin immunoprecipitation and formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements followed by sequencing to show that PU.1 transcription factor binding motifs were overrepresented at active cis-regulatory regions in both murine BMMs and OCs, while IRF and NFAT binding motifs were selectively enriched at these regions in BMMs and OCs, respectively. We also found that RANKL induced the downregulation of Irf8 and upregulation of Nfatc1 expression, which was associated with dramatic alterations in histone modification. BMM-specific PU.1 binding sites were observed to overlap with IRF8 binding sites in BMMs, and this also occurred for OC-specific PU.1 binding sites and NFATc1 binding sites in OCs. The expression of genes with IRF8 peaks within BMM-specific PU.1 binding sites was significantly higher in BMMs than in OCs, while that of genes with NFATc1 peaks within OC-specific PU.1 binding sites was significantly higher in OCs than in BMMs. Our results suggest that PU.1 switches its transcription partner from IRF8 to NFATc1 and alters the binding regions during RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis, which is associated with changes in epigenetic profiles and the control of cell type–specific gene expression. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Slc20a2, Encoding the Phosphate Transporter PiT2, Is an Important Genetic Determinant of Bone Quality and Strength
Authors: Beck-Cormier Sarah , Lelliott Christopher J , Logan John G , Lafont David T , Merametdjian Laure , Leitch Victoria D , Butterfield Natalie C , Protheroe Hayley J , Croucher Peter I , Baldock Paul A , Gaultier-Lintia Alina , Maugars Yves , Nicolas Gael , Banse Christopher , Normant Sébastien , Magne Nicolas , Gérardin Emmanuel , Bon Nina , Sourice Sophie , Guicheux Jérôme , Beck Laurent , Williams Graham R , Bassett J H Duncan
Published: February 2019

Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) and fragility fracture and affects over 200 million people worldwide. Bone quality describes the material properties that contribute to strength independently of BMD, and its quantitative analysis is a major priority in osteoporosis research. Tissue mineralization is a fundamental process requiring calcium and phosphate transporters. Here we identify impaired bone quality and strength in Slc20a2–/– mice lacking the phosphate transporter SLC20A2. Juveniles had abnormal endochondral and intramembranous ossification, decreased mineral accrual, and short stature. Adults exhibited only small reductions in bone mass and mineralization but a profound impairment of bone strength. Bone quality was severely impaired in Slc20a2–/– mice: yield load (–2.3 SD), maximum load (–1.7 SD), and stiffness (–2.7 SD) were all below values predicted from their bone mineral content as determined in a cohort of 320 wild-type controls. These studies identify Slc20a2 as a physiological regulator of tissue mineralization and highlight its critical role in the determination of bone quality and strength. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
CeO2 nanoparticles synthesized through green chemistry are biocompatible: In vitro and in vivo assessment
Authors: Naz Sania , Kazmi Syeda Tayyaba Batool , Zia Muhammad
Published: February 2019

Widespread use of cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles (NPs) is found in almost all areas of research due to their distinctive properties. CeO2 NPs synthesized via green chemistry have been characterized for antioxidant, phytochemical, and biological potential. Physical characterization through scanning electron microscopy, XRD, and TGA showed that the NPs are circular in shape, 20‐25 nm in size, and stable in a wide range of temperature. NPs display significant antioxidant (32.7% free radical scavenging activity) and antileishmanial (IC50 48 µg mL−1) properties. In vitro toxicity tested against lymphocytes verified that NPs are biocompatible (99.38% viability of lymphocytes at 2.5 μg mL−1). In vivo toxicity experiments showed no harmful effects on rat serum chemistry and histology of various organs and did not even change the concentration of antioxidative enzymes, total protein contents, lipid peroxidation, and nitrosative stress. These observations are in line with the statement that plant‐based synthesis of CeO2 NPs lessens or nullifies in vitro and in vivo toxicity and hence CeO2 NPs are regarded as a safe and biocompatible material to be used in drug delivery.