bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific Eph receptor-cytoplasmic effector signaling mediated by SAM–SAM domain interactions
Authors: Wang Yue , Shang Yuan , Li Jianchao , Chen Weidi , Li Gang , Wan Jun , Liu Wei , Zhang Mingjie
Published: May 2018

The Eph receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family is the largest subfamily of RTKs playing critical roles in many developmental processes such as tissue patterning, neurogenesis and neuronal circuit formation, angiogenesis, etc. How the 14 Eph proteins, via their highly similar cytoplasmic domains, can transmit diverse and sometimes opposite cellular signals upon engaging ephrins is a major unresolved question. Here, we systematically investigated the bindings of each SAM domain of Eph receptors to the SAM domains from SHIP2 and Odin, and uncover a highly specific SAM–SAM interaction-mediated cytoplasmic Eph-effector binding pattern. Comparative X-ray crystallographic studies of several SAM–SAM heterodimer complexes, together with biochemical and cell biology experiments, not only revealed the exquisite specificity code governing Eph/effector interactions but also allowed us to identify SAMD5 as a new Eph binding partner. Finally, these Eph/effector SAM heterodimer structures can explain many Eph SAM mutations identified in patients suffering from cancers and other diseases.
Lighten up the dark: metazoan parasites as indicators for the ecology of Antarctic crocodile icefish (Channichthyidae) from the north-west Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Kuhn Thomas , Zizka Vera M.A. , Münster Julian , Klapper Regina , Mattiucci Simonetta , Kochmann Judith , Klimpel Sven
Published: May 2018

Due to its remote and isolated location, Antarctica is home to a unique diversity of species. The harsh conditions have shaped a primarily highly adapted endemic fauna. This includes the notothenioid family Channichthyidae. Their exceptional physiological adaptations have made this family of icefish the focus of many studies. However, studies on their ecology, especially on their parasite fauna, are comparatively rare. Parasites, directly linked to the food chain, can function as biological indicators and provide valuable information on host ecology (e.g., trophic interactions) even in remote habitats with limited accessibility, such as the Southern Ocean. In the present study, channichthyid fish (Champsocephalus gunnari:n= 25,Chaenodraco wilsoni:n= 33,Neopagetopsis ionah:n= 3,Pagetopsis macropterus:n= 4,Pseudochaenichthys georgianus:n= 15) were collected off South Shetland Island, Elephant Island, and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula (CCAML statistical subarea 48.1). The parasite fauna consisted of 14 genera and 15 species, belonging to the six taxonomic groups including Digenea (four species), Nematoda (four), Cestoda (two), Acanthocephala (one), Hirudinea (three), and Copepoda (one). The stomach contents were less diverse with only Crustacea (Euphausiacea, Amphipoda) recovered from all examined fishes. Overall, 15 new parasite-host records could be established, and possibly a undescribed genotype or even species might exist among the nematodes.
From the Guiana Highlands to the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest: four new species of Selaginella (Selaginellaceae – Lycopodiophyta: S. agioneuma, S. magnafornensis, S. ventricosa, and S. zartmanii)
Authors: Valdespino Iván A. , López Christian A. , Sierra Adriel M. , Ceballos Jorge
Published: May 2018

We describe four new species in the genus Selaginella (i.e., S. agioneuma, S. magnafornensis, S. ventricosa, and S. zartmanii) from Brazil, all presently classified in subg. Stachygynandrum. For each of the new taxa we discuss taxonomic affinities and provide information on habitat, distribution, and conservation status. In addition, line drawings and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of stems sections, leaves, and spores (when present) are included. Selaginella agioneuma and S. magnafornensis are from the State of Espíritu Santo where they inhabit premontane to montane Atlantic rain forests in the Reserva Biológica Augusto Ruschi and Parque Estadual Forno Grande, respectively. Selaginella ventricosa was collected in upper montane forests at Parque Nacional Serra da Mocidade, State of Roraima and S. zartmanii in premontane Amazon rain forests on upper Rio Negro at Mpio. São Gabriel da Cachoeira, Amazonas State in both Serra Curicuriari and the Morro dos Seis Lagos Biological Reserve.
A strategy to find novel candidate anti-Alzheimer’s disease drugs by constructing interaction networks between drug targets and natural compounds in medical plants
Authors: Chen Bi-Wen , Li Wen-Xing , Wang Guang-Hui , Li Gong-Hua , Liu Jia-Qian , Zheng Jun-Juan , Wang Qian , Li Hui-Juan , Dai Shao-Xing , Huang Jing-Fei
Published: May 2018

Background

Alzheimer’ disease (AD) is an ultimately fatal degenerative brain disorder that has an increasingly large burden on health and social care systems. There are only five drugs for AD on the market, and no new effective medicines have been discovered for many years. Chinese medicinal plants have been used to treat diseases for thousands of years, and screening herbal remedies is a way to develop new drugs.

Methods

We used molecular docking to screen 30,438 compounds from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) against a comprehensive list of AD target proteins. TCM compounds in the top 0.5% of binding affinity scores for each target protein were selected as our research objects. Structural similarities between existing drugs from DrugBank database and selected TCM compounds as well as the druggability of our candidate compounds were studied. Finally, we searched the CNKI database to obtain studies on anti-AD Chinese plants from 2007 to 2017, and only clinical studies were included.

Results

A total of 1,476 compounds (top 0.5%) were selected as drug candidates. Most of these compounds are abundantly found in plants used for treating AD in China, especially the plants from two genera Panax and Morus. We classified the compounds by single target and multiple targets and analyzed the interactions between target proteins and compounds. Analysis of structural similarity revealed that 17 candidate anti-AD compounds were structurally identical to 14 existing approved drugs. Most of them have been reported to have a positive effect in AD. After filtering for compound druggability, we identified 11 anti-AD compounds with favorable properties, seven of which are found in anti-AD Chinese plants. Of 11 anti-AD compounds, four compounds 5,862, 5,863, 5,868, 5,869 have anti-inflammatory activity. The compound 28,814 mainly has immunoregulatory activity. The other six compounds have not yet been reported for any biology activity at present.

Discussion

Natural compounds from TCM provide a broad prospect for the screening of anti-AD drugs. In this work, we established networks to systematically study the connections among natural compounds, approved drugs, TCM plants and AD target proteins with the goal of identifying promising drug candidates. We hope that our study will facilitate in-depth research for the treatment of AD in Chinese medicine.
‘2TM proteins’: an antigenically diverse superfamily with variable functions and export pathways
Authors: Kaur Jasweer , Hora Rachna
Published: May 2018

Malaria is a disease that affects millions of people annually. An intracellular habitat and lack of protein synthesizing machinery in erythrocytes pose numerous difficulties for survival of the human pathogenPlasmodium falciparum. The parasite refurbishes the infected red blood cell (iRBC) by synthesis and export of several proteins in an attempt to suffice its metabolic needs and evade the host immune response. Immune evasion is largely mediated by surface display of highly polymorphic protein families known as variable surface antigens. These include the two trans-membrane (2TM) superfamily constituted by multicopy repetitive interspersed family (RIFINs), subtelomeric variable open reading frame (STEVORs) andPlasmodium falciparumMaurer’s cleft two trans-membrane proteins present only inP. falciparumand some simian infectingPlasmodiumspecies. Their hypervariable region flanked by 2TM domains exposed on the iRBC surface is believed to generate antigenic diversity. Though historically named “2TM superfamily,” several A-type RIFINs and some STEVORs assume one trans-membrane topology. RIFINs and STEVORs share varied functions in different parasite life cycle stages like rosetting, alteration of iRBC rigidity and immune evasion. Additionally, a member of the STEVOR family has been implicated in merozoite invasion. Differential expression of these families in laboratory strains and clinical isolates propose them to be important for host cell survival and defense. The role of RIFINs in modulation of host immune response and presence of protective antibodies against these surface exposed molecules in patient sera highlights them as attractive targets of antimalarial therapies and vaccines. 2TM proteins arePlasmodiumexport elements positive, and several of these are exported to the infected erythrocyte surface after exiting through the classical secretory pathway within parasites. Cleaved and modified proteins are trafficked after packaging in vesicles to reach Maurer’s clefts, while information regarding delivery to the iRBC surface is sparse. Expression and export timing of the RIFIN andPlasmodium falciparumerythrocyte membrane protein1 families correspond to each other. Here, we have compiled and comprehended detailed information regarding orthologues, domain architecture, surface topology, functions and trafficking of members of the “2TM superfamily.” Considering the large repertoire of proteins included in the 2TM superfamily and recent advances defining their function in malaria biology, a surge in research carried out on this important protein superfamily is likely.
Surgical Treatment of Substernal Goiters Extending to Posterior Mediastinum
Authors: Peng Yao , Li Xinying , Zhang Zhejia , Jiang Bo , Feng Tiecheng , Li Jingdong , Tan Hui , Wang Zhiming , Zhuang Wei
Published: May 2018

Aim

The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical features of posterior mediastinal goiters and surgical treatment strategies on the basis of our experiences.

Methods

Clinical data of 23 cases of posterior mediastinal goiters in 122 substernal goiters from a total of 4381 thyroidectomies performed in the Division of Thyroid Surgery of the General Surgery Department of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, China, during a 6-year period (2010–2016) were analyzed.

Results

Posterior mediastinal goiters have a greater prevalence of compression symptoms compared with anterior mediastinal goiters (P < 0.05). Substernal goiters that extend to posterior mediastinum have a higher probability of mass bottom below the aortic arch than those extending to anterior mediastinum (P < 0.05). A total of 20 posterior mediastinal goiters (87.0%) underwent thyroidectomies by cervical approach without additional incision. In 3 of the 23 patients (13.0%), 1 thoracotomy and 2 thoracoscopic approaches were performed for a complete and safe removal. Postoperative complications occurred in 5 of 23 patients (21.7%), including temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis and transient hypoparathyroidism in our series.

Conclusions

Surgical removal of posterior mediastinal goiters can be performed safely by a single cervical approach in most patients. Thoracoscopic approach proposes a new treatment strategy with feasibility.
Thinking About Hiatal Hernia Recurrence After Laparoscopic Repair: When Should It Be Considered a True Recurrence? A Different Point of View
Authors: Braghetto Italo , Lanzarini Enrique , Musleh Maher , Korn Owen , Lasnibat Juan Pablo
Published: May 2018

Background:

High rates of recurrence after laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair have been published. Most of these recurrences are asymptomatic and only diagnosed by endoscopic or radiologic studies. The definition of hiatal hernia recurrence is still under discussion.

Objective:

This study aimed to define a true hiatal hernia recurrence using a score and classification criteria considering the presence of symptoms and size of the recurrence.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 153 patients with giant hiatal hernia larger than 10 cm in diameter underwent an operation using a laparoscopic approach. Of these patients, 129 had a complete follow-up (3–5 years) after surgery, and they were the only ones included in this study. The IT system of our hospital was our database for data registration. A score and classification were designed for definition of a “true” hiatal hernia recurrence, based on postoperative symptoms and the presence or not of a hiatal hernia in both radiologic and endoscopic evaluations.

Results:

Hiatal hernia recurrence based on endoscopic and/or radiologic hiatal hernia was found in 55 patients (42.6%), and only 28 of them (50.9%) had recurrent symptoms. Applying the score and proposed classification, no recurrence was considered in 18 patients (13.9%). Symptomatic and true recurrence were considered in 22.9% of patients (29 patients). Reoperation was needed for 7 patients (5.4%) because of symptomatic and radiologic recurrence.

Conclusions:

Postoperative symptoms, endoscopic findings, or radiologic findings are important for the definition of the type of recurrence and for the indication of appropriate treatment. The proposed score and classification are useful in order to specify the hiatal hernia recurrence and treatment.
Essential roles of telomerase reverse transcriptase hTERT in cancer stemness and metastasis
Authors: Hannen Ricarda , Bartsch Jörg W.
Published: May 2018

Maintenance of chromosomal telomere length is a hallmark of cancer cells and a prerequisite for stemness. In 85–90% of all human cancers, telomere length maintenance is achieved by reactivation of telomerase, whereas in the remaining 10–15% cancers, alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) is observed. Reactivation of telomerase occurs by various mechanisms, one of which is accumulation of point mutations in the promoter region of the gene encoding the protein subunit hTERT. There are numerous studies linking either hTERT overexpression or the presence of hTERT mutations to an aggressive phenotype of several human cancers. Recent findings demonstrate that hTERT expression is not only associated with replicative immortality, but also with cancer cell motility and stem cell phenotype. However, the mechanisms by which hTERT affects cancer cell migration, invasion, and distant metastasis on the one hand, and stemness and resistance on the other hand, are still poorly understood. Within this review, we aim to provide an overview on the functional involvement of hTERT in these cellular processes, focusing on metastasis formation and maintenance of stemness in different human cancers.
Rho signaling research: history, current status and future directions
Authors: Narumiya Shuh , Thumkeo Dean
Published: May 2018

One of the main research areas in biology from the mid‐1980s through the 1990s was the elucidation of signaling pathways governing cell responses. These studies brought, among other molecules, the small GTPase Rho to the epicenter. Rho signaling research has since expanded to all areas of biology and medicine. Here, we describe how Rho emerged as a key molecule governing cell morphogenesis and movement, how it was linked to actin reorganization, and how the study of Rho signaling has expanded from cultured cells to whole biological systems. We then give an overview of the current research status of Rho signaling in development, brain, cardiovascular system, immunity and cancer, and discuss the future directions of Rho signaling research, with emphasis on one Rho effector, ROCK*.

*The Rho GTPase family. Rho family GTPases have now expanded to contain 20 members. Amino acid sequences of 20 Rho GTPases found in human were aligned and the phylogenetic tree was generated by ClustalW2 software (EMBL‐EBI) based on NJ algorithm. The subfamilies of the Rho GTPases are highlighted by the circle and labeled on the right side. Rho cited in this review refers to the original members of Rho subfamily, RhoA, RhoB and RhoC, that are C3 substrates, and, unless specified, not to other members of the Rho subfamily such as Rac, Cdc42, and Rnd.

image

*The Rho GTPase family. Rho family GTPases have now expanded to contain 20 members. Amino acid sequences of 20 Rho GTPases found in human were aligned and the phylogenetic tree was generated by ClustalW2 software (EMBL‐EBI) based on NJ algorithm. The subfamilies of the Rho GTPases are highlighted by the circle and labeled on the right side. Rho cited in this review refers to the original members of Rho subfamily, RhoA, RhoB and RhoC, that are C3 substrates, and, unless specified, not to other members of the Rho subfamily such as Rac, Cdc42, and Rnd.
Nitrite‐dependent nitric oxide synthesis by molybdenum enzymes
Authors: Bender Daniel , Schwarz Guenter
Published: May 2018

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important gasotransmitter involved in numerous intra‐ and intercellular signaling events. In addition to the oxidative pathway of NO generation, which includes three NO synthase (NOS) isoforms in mammals, a reductive pathway contributes to NO generation. In this pathway, nitrite is reduced to NO by various metal‐containing proteins. Among these, all members of the eukaryotic molybdenum (Mo)‐dependent enzyme family were found to be able to reduce nitrite to NO. This Review focuses on the current state of research in the field of Mo‐dependent nitrite reduction in eukaryotes. An overview on the five eukaryotic Mo‐enzymes is given, and similarities as well as differences in their nitrite reduction mechanisms are presented and discussed in the context of physiological relevance.
A Visual Survey of Global Slab Geometries With ShowEarthModel and Implications for a Three‐Dimensional Subduction Paradigm
Authors: Jadamec Margarete A. , Kreylos Oliver , Chang Benjamin , Fischer Karen M. , Yikilmaz M. Burak
Published: May 2018

Increasing volumes of digital data, combined with advances in visualization, allow for a new three‐dimensional (3D) conceptualization of modern subduction systems. Here we present 16 visual exploration sessions with the ShowEarthModel program that interrogate modern slab morphologies on Earth. These virtual voyages through the Earth's interior provide a snapshot into the four‐dimensional evolution of plate tectonics, captured by the modern state of slab structure. Examining the modern subduction system in an interactive 3‐D framework provides an improved conceptualization of the morphology of slabs. The movies demonstrate that unlike the modern mid‐ocean ridge system, modern subduction systems are laterally discontinuous features, making lateral slab edges prevalent. The 3‐D visualizations elucidate the manner in which slabs intersect and overlap, processes that occur in at least six of the Earth's major subduction zones. The observed variability within a given subduction zone as well as the physical presence of intersecting slabs suggests that slab gaps and slab windows are common. The 3‐D rendering shows relative differences in the radius of curvature for arcuate slabs, as well as the variability in dip within a given subduction zone. Addressing the complex geometries of subducted lithosphere in this way can place constraints on outstanding questions of subduction dynamics including slab strength, mantle rheology, mantle flow circulation, and plate‐asthenosphere coupling. By conceptualizing the modern subduction system on Earth in 3‐D space, this paper contributes to the paradigm shift from a two‐dimensional (2‐D) to 3‐D framework for interpreting the subduction process.
Transnational Capitalism
Authors: Struna Jason
Published: May 2018

Transnational capitalism is a phase in the evolution of the capitalist mode of production marked by cross‐border social relations and significant interdependence in the world economy. Transnational corporations represent central institutional actors who exert substantial influence over local and transnational regulatory agencies and state structures. Disputes over the periodization of transnational capitalism exist in sociological and related literatures, but consensus on core concepts and influences point to important shared observations across perspectives. Transnational capitalism implies the expansion of related cultural tendencies and social structures to contexts beyond nation‐states or national societies.
Classification
Authors: Uprichard Emma , Jackson Clare
Published: May 2018

Classification and classification systems organize everyday life and do so in ways that are increasingly automated. Classifiers classify the classifiable and are highly political. Yet, ironically, it is precisely through devising new forms of classification that social scientists can also intervene and develop new modes of resistance in everyday life.
Ethnocentrism
Authors: Sefiha Ophir
Published: May 2018

Ethnocentrism commonly refers to the tendency to view the world through the lens of one's own culture. This perspective typically engenders feelings of cultural superiority and has been used to justify the prejudicial treatment of outsider groups. While ethnocentrism is closely associated with discrimination, ethnocentric thinking is not exclusively harmful as it serves a number of important individual and social functions. Ethnocentrism is generally considered a universal phenomenon and is studied both as a group and as an individual concept. Those who study other cultures attempt to limit ethnocentric thinking by practicing cultural relativity which involves judging other groups by their own cultural standards.
Female Masculinity
Authors: Sturgess Cyd
Published: May 2018

The term “female masculinity” refers to a spectrum of traditionally masculine‐inflected behaviors, characteristics, and appearances that occur in biologically female‐sexed subjects. A highly politicized concept, this category both marks an intervention into the system of compulsive heterosexuality and into the strict societal dichotomization of gender and challenges the understanding of “masculine” and “feminine” as static categories within an oppositional dialectic. One of the most influential and comprehensive studies on the subject of female‐bodied masculinities has been produced by Judith Halberstam, who draws on ethnography, archival research, and textual criticism to explore the complexity of masculine embodiments that exist outside of the white male‐sexed subject.
Gerontology
Authors: Fisk Malcolm J. , Nash Paul
Published: May 2018

The term “gerontology” was coined by the Russian biologist Ilya Ilyich Metchnikoff in 1903. His definition was close to the one we accept today, over a century later. Gerontology has been faced by challenges that relate to both its boundaries and its focus. Its multidisciplinary nature is considered a strength by virtue of its enabling gerontologists to draw on theories and knowledge from a wide range of disciplines. This strength has been reaffirmed, as early theories that tended to focus on aging in relation to an independence–dependence axis have been increasingly discredited. Critical gerontology and cultural gerontology have been instrumental to developing this multidisciplinary theoretical perspective. They have freed gerontologists from their earlier focus on that axis and offer the potential to free them also from the limitations in thinking that can be associated with current structures, attitudes, institutions, and regimes.
Labor Movement
Authors: Ikebe Shannon
Published: May 2018

The labor movement is a collective organization of workers in a capitalist society that seeks to enhance workers' welfare through a variety of means, including strikes, protests, workplace occupations, parliamentary representation, and revolutionary mobilizations. The modern labor movement emerged along with industrial capitalism, played a pivotal part in the rise of modern political democracy, and brought about vast improvements in living standards and working conditions. There is a great diversity of aims, strategies, ideologies and organizational forms within the labor movement – across countries, historically, and often within the same organizations. This entry covers the history of the labor movement in Europe and North America over the past two centuries, from a comparative perspective.
Leisure,Aging and
Authors: Liechty Toni , Genoe M. Rebecca
Published: May 2018

Leisure plays an important role in the aging process. It provides a site for older adults to create meaning in life, adapt to age‐related changes, and improve or maintain physical, social, cognitive, and psychological health. Leisure has been identified as a site for reinforcing ageist stereotypes as well as a means of resistance against them. Researchers have utilized sociological theories including activity theory and continuity theory to better explain leisure and aging, particularly the role of leisure in adaptation to age‐related change; however, further research into experiences of aging and further theory development is needed to better understand this complex phenomenon and the experiences of diverse individuals.
Media and the Public Sphere
Authors: Carpentier Nico
Published: May 2018

The reflections on media and the public sphere draw heavily on the interpretation given by Habermas to the latter concept. The alternative models that have been developed, such as Nancy Fraser's counterpublics model, also build on the Habermasian approach, although the influence of a more Mouffean agonist approach is increasing. The field of communication and media studies uses the public sphere concept to make sense of the role of communication in noninstitutionalized politics characterized by three dimensions: the normative versus the neutralized‐descriptive, the media‐centric versus the society‐centric, and the structural(ist) versus the cultural(ist).
MacIver,RobertMorrison (1882–1970)
Authors: Brewer John David
Published: May 2018

Robert MacIver made a significant journey in sociology from birth on a small island off the Scottish mainland to become president of the American Sociological Association, Lieber Professor at Colombia University and president and chancellor of the New School of Social Research in New York. He was very influential for a time and the author of key textbooks.
Performativity
Authors: Dosekun Simidele
Published: May 2018

Performativity is an interdisciplinary theoretical concept that originates in the philosophy of language of John L. Austin but more recently has been influentially elaborated by the feminist philosopher Judith Butler. It can be understood as discursive practice that engenders or brings into being its very referent, including the embodied subject.
Risk, Risk Society, Risk Behavior, and Social Problems
Authors: Curran Dean
Published: May 2018

The sociology of risk has flourished since the early 1980s. This entry provides a critical review of the key approaches in the sociology of risk: the cultural approach, risk society, governmentality, systems approach, and edgework. In addition to introducing each of these approaches, this review points out some of the common criticisms of each of these approaches and how the state of the art continues to evolve in the face of new sets of risks that continue to emerge.
Social Capital
Authors: Tlili Anwar
Published: May 2018

The core idea of “social capital” is that one's group relations or memberships play a significant role in facilitating purposive action and attaining desirable ends; this has many precedents, but its conceptual salience is fairly recent and dates back to the 1980s. There has since been an explosion in the literature on social capital, and a spectacular uptake of the concept by many policy‐making constituencies. Despite the many variations in and uses of social capital, a polarization exists that tends to be either underplayed or overlooked, between Bourdieu's critical version on one hand, and Coleman's and its subsequent offshoots prominent in the English‐speaking world, on the other (e.g., Putnam). Although in its dominant version social capital can be ideologically invested and conceptually questionable, it is still important to reclaim it as a critical analytic tool to uncover and explain how social inequalities are sustained and reproduced via relational resources.
Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Targeted and Stimuli‐Responsive Delivery of Chemotherapeutics: A Review
Authors: Rahikkala Antti , Pereira Sarah A. P. , Figueiredo Patrícia , Passos Marieta L. C. , Araújo André R. T. S. , Saraiva M. Lúcia M. F. S. , Santos Hélder A.
Published: May 2018

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) exhibit the typical characteristics of inorganic materials that make them promising drug delivery carriers for cancer therapy. Their structural properties allow the targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs to enhance drug efficacy and reduce adverse effects. The functionalization of MSNs with targeting ligands to a specific tissue/cell and stimuli‐responsive capping materials to seal drugs inside the MSNs pores are widely studied for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Furthermore, multiple stimuli‐responsive MSN‐based drug delivery systems are developed to enhance the delivery of anticancer drugs to their specific target and thereby improve the release of the drugs at the intended site. In addition, several toxicity studies are conducted to evaluate the biosafety and biocompatibility of MSNs. Although MSNs present reduced toxicity compared to colloidal silica, they can induce cytotoxicity associated with oxidative stress by increased reactive oxygen species production and decreased glutathione levels that can ultimately lead to cell death. However, different modifications to control morphology and surface composition can be applied to overcome the biocompatibility concerns. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the controlled synthesis, functionalization, targeting and biocompatibility of MSNs, as well as their biomedical application as a chemotherapeutic delivery system is provided.
Superplastic Deformation Behavior of Multi‐Pass Warm Rolled Ti–6Al–4V Titanium Alloy at Low Temperature and High Strain Rate
Authors: Xu Yong , Yang Xiangjie , Dong Hongbo
Published: May 2018

The superplastic deformation behavior of Ti–6Al–4V alloy is investigated by the tensile tests for multi‐pass warm rolled Ti–6Al–4V alloy at temperature of 700–870 °C and strain rate of 10−3–10−2 s−1. A maximum elongation of 1550% is obtained at temperature of 800 °C and strain rate of 10−3 s−1. Even at the low temperature of 700 °C and the high strain rate of 10−2 s−1, the elongation is still 356%. The enhanced superplasticity at low temperature and high strain rate is due to the refined microstructure with fragmented and uniformly distributed fine β grains and to the high density dislocation around grain boundaries as well as dynamic recrystallization. The activation energy at temperature of 800 and 870 °C is 226.8 and 220.2 kJ mol−1, but it increases to 377.5 kJ mol−1 at temperature of 700 °C. The average activation energy is 274.8 kJ mol−1 suggesting that the predominant deformation mechanism is grain boundary sliding. The coefficient of strain rate sensitivity increases with the temperature.
Magnetic Properties of Thermal Sprayed Tungsten Carbide–Cobalt Coatings
Authors: Angrisani Gian Luigi , Taptimthong Piriya , Thürer Susanne Elisabeth , Klose Christian , Maier Hans Jürgen , Wurz Marc Christopher , Möhwald Kai
Published: May 2018

In the information age, the storage and accessibility of data is of vital importance. There are several possibilities to fulfill this task. Magnetic storage of data is a well‐established method and the range of materials used is continuously extended. In this study, the magnetic remanence of thermally sprayed tungsten carbide–cobalt (WCCo)‐coatings in dependence of their thickness is examined. Two magnetic fields differing in value and geometry are imprinted into the coatings and the resulting remanence field is measured. It is found that there are two effects, which in combination determine the effective value of the magnetic remanence usable for magnetic data storage.
Automated Expansion of Primary Human T Cells in Scalable and Cell‐Friendly Hydrogel Microtubes for Adoptive Immunotherapy
Authors: Lin Haishuang , Li Qiang , Wang Ou , Rauch Jack , Harm Braden , Viljoen Hendrik J. , Zhang Chi , Van Wyk Erika , Zhang Chi , Lei Yuguo
Published: May 2018

Adoptive immunotherapy is a highly effective strategy for treating many human cancers, such as melanoma, cervical cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia. Here, a novel cell culture technology is reported for expanding primary human T cells for adoptive immunotherapy. T cells are suspended and cultured in microscale alginate hydrogel tubes (AlgTubes) that are suspended in the cell culture medium in a culture vessel. The hydrogel tubes protect cells from hydrodynamic stresses and confine the cell mass less than 400 µm (in radial diameter) to ensure efficient mass transport, creating a cell‐friendly microenvironment for growing T cells. This system is simple, scalable, highly efficient, defined, cost‐effective, and compatible with current good manufacturing practices. Under optimized culture conditions, the AlgTubes enable culturing T cells with high cell viability, low DNA damage, high growth rate (≈320‐fold expansion over 14 days), high purity (≈98% CD3+), and high yield (≈3.2 × 108 cells mL−1 hydrogel). All offer considerable advantages compared to current T cell culturing approaches. This new culture technology can significantly reduce the culture volume, time, and cost, while increasing the production.
Surface, Bulk, and Interface: Rational Design of Hematite Architecture toward Efficient Photo‐Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Li Chengcheng , Luo Zhibin , Wang Tuo , Gong Jinlong
Published: May 2018

Collecting and storing solar energy to hydrogen fuel through a photo‐electrochemical (PEC) cell provides a clean and renewable pathway for future energy demands. Having earth‐abundance, low biotoxicity, robustness, and an ideal n‐type band position, hematite (α‐Fe2O3), the most common natural form of iron oxide, has occupied the research hotspot for decades. Here, a close look into recent progress of hematite photoanodes for PEC water splitting is provided. Effective approaches are introduced, such as cocatalysts loading and surface passivation layer deposition, to improve the hematite surface reaction in thermodynamics and kinetics. Second, typical methods for enhancing light absorption and accelerating charge transport in hematite bulk are reviewed, concentrating upon doping and nanostructuring. Third, the back contact between hematite and substrate, which affects interface states and electron transfer, is deliberated. In addition, perspectives on the key challenges and future prospects for the development of hematite photoelectrodes for PEC water splitting are given.
Bioinspired Infrared Sensing Materials and Systems
Authors: Shen Qingchen , Luo Zhen , Ma Shuai , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Wu Jianbo , Shang Wen , Deng Tao
Published: May 2018

Bioinspired engineering offers a promising alternative approach in accelerating the development of many man‐made systems. Next‐generation infrared (IR) sensing systems can also benefit from such nature‐inspired approach. The inherent compact and uncooled operation of biological IR sensing systems provides ample inspiration for the engineering of portable and high‐performance artificial IR sensing systems. This review overviews the current understanding of the biological IR sensing systems, most of which are thermal‐based IR sensors that rely on either bolometer‐like or photomechanic sensing mechanism. The existing efforts inspired by the biological IR sensing systems and possible future bioinspired approaches in the development of new IR sensing systems are also discussed in the review. Besides these biological IR sensing systems, other biological systems that do not have IR sensing capabilities but can help advance the development of engineered IR sensing systems are also discussed, and the related engineering efforts are overviewed as well. Further efforts in understanding the biological IR sensing systems, the learning from the integration of multifunction in biological systems, and the reduction of barriers to maximize the multidiscipline collaborations are needed to move this research field forward.
Stabilization of Mesoporous Iron Oxide Films against Sintering and Phase Transformations via Atomic Layer Deposition of Alumina and Silica
Authors: Kraffert Katrin , Karg Matthias , Schmack Roman , Clavel Guylhaine , Boissiere Cedric , Wirth Thomas , Pinna Nicola , Kraehnert Ralph
Published: May 2018

The stabilization of crystal phases and nanostructured morphologies is an essential topic in application‐driven design of mesoporous materials. Many applications, e.g. catalysis, require high temperature and humidity. Typical metal oxides transform under such conditions from a metastable, low crystalline material into a thermodynamically more favorable form, i.e. from ferrihydrite into hematite in the case of iron oxide. The harsh conditions induce also a growth of the crystallites constituting pore walls, which results in sintering and finally collapse of the porous network. Herein, a new method to stabilize mesoporous templated metal oxides against sintering and pore collapse is reported. The method employs atomic layer deposition (ALD) to coat the internal mesopore surface with thin layers of either alumina or silica. The authors demonstrate that silica exerts a very strong influence: It shifts hematite formation from 400 to 600 °C and sintering of hematite from 600 to 900 °C. Differences between the stabilization via alumina and silica are rationalized by a different interaction strength between the ALD material and the ferrihydrite film. The presented approach allows to stabilize mesoporous thin films that require a high crystallization temperature, with submonolayer quantity of an ALD material, and to apply mesoporous materials for high temperature applications.
Optically Transparent Wood: Recent Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Vasileva Elena , Sychugov Ilya , Popov Sergei , Berglund Lars
Published: May 2018

Transparent wood is an emerging load‐bearing material reinvented from natural wood scaffolds with added light management functionalities. Such material shows promising properties for buildings and related structural applications, including its renewable and abundant origin, interesting optical properties, outstanding mechanical performance, low density, low thermal conductivity, and great potential for multifunctionalization. In this study, a detailed summary of recent progress on the transparent wood research topic is presented. Remaining questions and challenges related to transparent wood preparation, optical property measurements, and transparent wood modification and applications are discussed.
Functions of TGIF homeodomain proteins and their roles in normal brain development and holoprosencephaly
Authors: Wotton David , Taniguchi Kenichiro
Published: May 2018

Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is a frequent human forebrain developmental disorder with both genetic and environmental causes. Multiple loci have been associated with HPE in humans, and potential causative genes at 14 of these loci have been identified. Although TGIF1 (originally TGIF, for Thymine Guanine‐Interacting Factor) is among the most frequently screened genes in HPE patients, an understanding of how mutations in this gene contribute to the pathogenesis of HPE has remained elusive. However, mouse models based on loss of function of Tgif1, and the related Tgif2 gene, have shed some light on how human TGIF1 variants might cause HPE. Functional analyses of TGIF proteins and of TGIF1 single nucleotide variants from HPE patients, combined with analysis of forebrain development in mouse embryos lacking both Tgif1 and Tgif2, suggest that TGIFs regulate the transforming growth factor ß/Nodal signaling pathway and sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling independently. Although, some developmental processes that are regulated by TGIFs may be Nodal‐dependent, it appears that the forebrain patterning defects and HPE in Tgif mutant mouse embryos is primarily due to altered signaling via the Shh pathway.
Quantum Measurements, Energy Conservation and Quantum Clocks
Authors: Gisin Nicolas , Zambrini Cruzeiro Emmanuel
Published: May 2018

A spin chain extending from Alice to Bob with nearest neighbors interactions, initially in its ground state, is considered. Assuming that Bob measures the last spin of the chain, the energy of the spin chain has to increase, at least on average, due to the measurement disturbance. Presumably, the energy is provided by Bob's measurement apparatus. Assuming that, simultaneously to Bob's measurement, Alice measures the first spin, it is shown that either energy is not conserved, – implausible – or the projection postulate doesn't apply, and that there is signalling. An explicit measurement model shows that energy is conserved (as expected), but that the spin chain energy increase is not provided by the measurement apparatus(es), that the projection postulate is not always valid – illustrating the Wigner–Araki–Yanase (WAY) theorem – and that there is signalling, indeed. The signalling is due to the non‐local interaction Hamiltonian. This raises the question of whether a suitable quantum‐information‐inspired model of such non‐local Hamiltonians can be developed.
Toward Two‐Dimensional π‐Conjugated Covalent Organic Radical Frameworks
Authors: Wu Shaofei , Li Minchan , Phan Hoa , Wang Dingguan , Herng Tun Seng , Ding Jun , Lu Zhouguang , Wu Jishan
Published: May 2018

Reported is the synthesis, characterization, and material properties of the first π‐conjugated two‐dimensional covalent organic radical framework (CORF), PTM‐CORF, based on the stable polychlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) radical. The covalent organic framework (COF) precursor (PTM‐H‐COF) was first synthesized by liquid/liquid interfacial acetylenic homocoupling of a triethynylpolychlorotriphenylmethane monomer, and showed crystalline features with a hexagonal diffraction pattern matching that of A‐B‐C stacking. Subsequent deprotonation and oxidation of the PTM units in PTM‐H‐COF gave PTM‐CORF. Magnetic measurements revealed that the neighboring PTM radicals in the PTM‐CORF are anti‐ferromagnetically coupled each other, with a moderate exchange interaction (J=−375 cm−1). The PTM‐CORF has a small energy gap (ca. 0.88 eV) and a low‐lying LUMO energy level (−4.72 eV), and exhibits high electrocatalytic activity and durability toward the oxygen reduction reaction.
Residue‐Specific Dynamics and Local Environmental Changes in Aβ40 Oligomer and Fibril Formation
Authors: Liu Haiyang , Morris Clifford , Lantz Richard , Kent Thomas W. , Elbassal Esmail A. , Wojcikiewicz Ewa P. , Du Deguo
Published: May 2018

Elucidating local dynamics of protein aggregation is crucial for understanding the mechanistic details of protein amyloidogenesis. Herein, we studied the residue‐specific dynamics and local environmental changes of Aβ40 along the course of aggregation by using para‐cyanophenylalanine (PheCN) as a fluorescent and vibrational probe. Our results show that the PheCN residues introduced at various positions all exhibited an immediate decay of fluorescence intensity, indicating a relatively synergistic process in early oligomer formation. The fast decreases in the fluorescence intensities of residues 19 and 20 in the central hydrophobic core region and residue 10 in the N‐terminal region suggest that they play crucial roles in the formation of the oligomeric core. The PheCN4 residue exhibits a remarkably slower decrease in fluorescence intensity, implicating its dynamic conformational characteristics in oligomer and fibril formation. Our results also suggest that the N‐terminal residues in fibrils are surrounded by a relatively hydrophobic local environment, as opposed to being solvated.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Functionalization of 1‐Boraphenalenes
Authors: Kahan Rachel J. , Crossley Daniel L. , Cid Jessica , Radcliffe James E. , Ingleson Michael J.
Published: May 2018

1‐Boraphenalenes have been synthesized by reaction of BBr3 with 1‐(aryl‐ethynyl)naphthalenes, 1‐ethynylnaphthalene, and 1‐(pent‐1‐yn‐1‐yl)naphthalene and they can be selectively functionalized at boron or carbon to form bench‐stable products. All of these 1‐boraphenalenes have LUMOs localized on the planar C12B core that are closely comparable in character to isoelectronic phenalenyl cations. In contrast to the comparable LUMOs, the aromatic stabilization of the C5B ring in 1‐boraphenalenes is dramatically lower than the C6 rings in phenalenyl cations. This is due to the occupied orbitals of π symmetry being less delocalised in the 1‐boraphenalenes.
A Bimetallic Zn/Fe Polyphthalocyanine‐Derived Single‐Atom Fe‐N4 Catalytic Site:A Superior Trifunctional Catalyst for Overall Water Splitting and Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Pan Yuan , Liu Shoujie , Sun Kaian , Chen Xin , Wang Bin , Wu Konglin , Cao Xing , Cheong Weng‐Chon , Shen Rongan , Han Aijuan , Chen Zheng , Zheng Lirong , Luo Jun , Lin Yan , Liu Yunqi , Wang Dingsheng , Peng Qing , Zhang Qiang , Chen Chen , Li Yadong
Published: May 2018

Developing an efficient single‐atom material (SAM) synthesis and exploring the energy‐related catalytic reaction are important but still challenging. A polymerization–pyrolysis–evaporation (PPE) strategy was developed to synthesize N‐doped porous carbon (NPC) with anchored atomically dispersed Fe‐N4 catalytic sites. This material was derived from predesigned bimetallic Zn/Fe polyphthalocyanine. Experiments and calculations demonstrate the formed Fe‐N4 site exhibits superior trifunctional electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, and hydrogen evolution reactions. In overall water splitting and rechargeable Zn–air battery devices containing the Fe‐N4 SAs/NPC catalyst, it exhibits high efficiency and extraordinary stability. This current PPE method is a general strategy for preparing M SAs/NPC (M=Co, Ni, Mn), bringing new perspectives for designing various SAMs for catalytic application.
Watura Jurnti: A 42000–45000‐year‐long occupation sequence from the north‐eastern Pilbara
Authors: MARSH MICHAEL , HISCOCK PETER , WILLIAMS DOUGLAS , HUGHES PHILIP , SULLIVAN MARJORIE
Published: May 2018

Watura Jurnti (DAA #6287) was first occupied in 42000–45000 BP, with evidence of occupation continuing through the arid LGM and deglacial period to c.15000 BP. There was a very pronounced reduction in both occupation and deposition between c.15000 and 1500 BP. The small size and nature of the stone artefact assemblage indicates that use of the shelter has been intermittent and non‐intensive throughout most of the past 42–45 ka. Watura Jurnti is on an isolated ridge on the northern margin of the Pilbara and its occupational history shows that the more marginal areas of the arid zone, including the sandy and stony deserts of adjacent to the northern Pilbara, were subject to intermittent visitation before, during and after the LGM.