bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A network of the steppe and forest steppe along the Prut and Lower Danube rivers during the 6th millennium BC
Authors: Reingruber Agathe
Published: January 2017

The transition from a (predominantly) mobile way of life relying on hunting, fishing and gathering to a (predominantly) sedentary life-style based on farming and animal husbandry is considered in the western Pontic archaeological tradition almost exclusively from a southern, AegeanAnatolian perspective. Contacts between the steppe and forest steppe of the north-eastern Balkans and the north-western Pontic were seen as linear and unidirectional; ‘cultures’ were defined almost exclusively on the basis of pottery styles. Not only such traditional viewpoints, but also the political conditions of the 20th century further biased prehistoric research. However, the outer Carpathian region should not be treated as a periphery of the inner Carpathian Cris culture, but as a region of multidirectional exchange networks. Moreover, certain traditions are obviously rooted in the Mesolithic of that area.
Simulating ozone dry deposition at a boreal forest with a multi-layer canopy deposition model
Authors: Zhou Putian , Ganzeveld Laurens , Rannik Üllar , Zhou Luxi , Gierens Rosa , Taipale Ditte , Mammarella Ivan , Boy Michael
Published: January 2017

Abstract. A multi-layer ozone (O3) dry deposition model has been implemented into SOSAA (a model to Simulate the concentrations of Organic vapours, Sulphuric Acid and Aerosols) to improve the representation of O3 concentration and flux within and above the forest canopy in the planetary boundary layer. We aim to predict the O3 uptake by a boreal forest canopy under varying environmental conditions and analyse the influence of different factors on total O3 uptake by the canopy as well as the vertical distribution of deposition sinks inside the canopy. The newly implemented dry deposition model was validated by an extensive comparison of simulated and observed O3 turbulent fluxes and concentration profiles within and above the boreal forest canopy at SMEAR II (Station to Measure Ecosystem–Atmosphere Relations II) in Hyytiälä, Finland, in August 2010. In this model, the fraction of wet surface on vegetation leaves was parametrised according to the ambient relative humidity (RH). Model results showed that when RH was larger than 70 % the O3 uptake onto wet skin contributed ∼ 51 % to the total deposition during nighttime and ∼ 19 % during daytime. The overall contribution of soil uptake was estimated about 36 %. The contribution of sub-canopy deposition below 4.2 m was modelled to be ∼ 38 % of the total O3 deposition during daytime, which was similar to the contribution reported in previous studies. The chemical contribution to O3 removal was evaluated directly in the model simulations. According to the simulated averaged diurnal cycle the net chemical production of O3 compensated up to ∼ 4 % of dry deposition loss from about 06:00 to 15:00 LT. During nighttime, the net chemical loss of O3 further enhanced removal by dry deposition by a maximum ∼ 9 %. Thus the results indicated an overall relatively small contribution of airborne chemical processes to O3 removal at this site.
Presentación Vol.12
Authors: Zelaya Ochoa Marysabel
Published: January 2017

La Maestría en Demografía y Desarrollo de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras presenta el volumen 12 de la Revista Población Desarrollo Argonautas y Caminantes.A nivel de América Latina las sociedades transitan por continuos cambios con particularidades propias de cada región. Estos cambios son objeto de estudio de los investigadores sociales, quienes mediante procesos de investigación y construcción del conocimiento tratan de comprenderlos y explicarlos desde las distintas Ciencias Sociales. Gran parte de los cambios sociales tienen su origen en un contexto demográfico, pero tienen impacto en la economía, la educación, la salud, la organización del territorio, la demanda de servicios públicos, entre otros.La revista se presenta como un escenario que permite compartir entre sus lectores el acontecer sociodemográfico desde diferentes espacios territoriales, de tal manera que brinda la oportunidad de identificar temáticas compartidas con diferentes matices que brindan un panorama general de los fenómenos sociodemográficos a nivel de América Latina.
Los Trabajadores Agrarios Migrantes de Temporada hacia el Valle Medio del Río Negro, en la Patagonia Argentina
Authors: Aguilera María Eugenia
Published: January 2017

Se explora la configuración productiva del Valle Medio del Río Negro, en el norte de la Patagonia argentina. Las fuentes documentales e históricas se complementan con entrevistas relevadas en campo entre 2011 y 2013 y con una Encuesta de Hogares relevada en 2011 en las localidades que conforman el Valle Medio. El Valle Medio está próximo al Alto Valle del mismo río, donde desde mediados de la década de 1960 se produce fruta de pepita de exportación, para consumo en fresco. Se comparan los procesos de asentamiento poblacional e historia productiva de cada valle y se analizan las similitudes y diferencias según características geográficas, climáticas, históricas, sociales y políticas, a la luz de las condiciones imperantes en el momento de consolidación productiva de cada uno.Revista Población y Desarrollo: Argonautas y Caminantes Vol.12, 2016: 9-21
Jóvenes Universitarios ante la Formación Profesional y la Precariedad Laboral
Authors: Silva Gutiérrez Blanca Noemí , Rodríguez Téllez Amada Lydia
Published: January 2017

En esta investigación se estudió la situación laboral de la población estudiantil del Centro Universitario de Ciencias Económico Administrativas (CUCEA) de la Universidad de Guadalajara, Jalisco, México. El objetivo consistió en analizar las características de los empleos remunerados en los que se desenvuelven los estudiantes del CUCEA, así como el perfil sociodemográfico de los participantes. Estos jóvenes atienden las actividades y exigencias institucionales propias de la vida académica y al mismo tiempo buscan mejorar su situación tanto económica como de formación profesional, por lo que se ven en la necesidad de estudiar y trabajar de manera simultánea. El estudio se realizó con metodología de carácter cuantitativo y corte transversal, se aplicó una encuesta a los estudiantes del nivel licenciatura del CUCEA, durante el calendario 2015 “B”. Entre los resultados se identificó la existencia de precariedad laboral respecto a los siguientes aspectos: la percepción salarial, la jornada laboral, la falta de prestaciones sociales así como la falta de contrato de trabajo.Revista Población y Desarrollo: Argonautas y Caminantes Vol.12, 2016: 95-104
Occurrence of the Common Amber Snail Succinea Putris (L.) (Gastropoda: Styllomatophora) on Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia Japonica [Houtt.] Ronse Decraene) in Slovenia - Possible Weed Biocontrol Agent?
Authors: Laznik Ziga , Trdan Stanislav
Published: January 2017

Japanese knotweed, Fallopia japonica is one of the most troublesome invasive alien plant in Europe and North America. In 2012 we started monitoring for possible indigenous natural enemies of Japanese knotweed in Slovenia. In Zgornji Log, near Litija (46°4′38.09″N, 14°49′31.65″E; 245 m) on the river Sava, we recorded several plants of F. japonica damaged by the common amber snail Succinea putris. In this paper we discuss the possibility of the biological control of Japanese knotweed with S. putris.
In Defiance of Meaning: A Study of D. H. Lawrence’s Apocalyptic Vision
Authors: Moussaoui Roumaissa , Sacks- Galey Penelope
Published: January 2017

D. H. Lawrence was one of the most controversial writers of the twentieth century who dared to criticize established convention through both his fictional and non fictional works. To this end, he moved away from literary conventions and used language in a new way, took well- known symbols and transformed them into vectors of his own individual and unique thought. Through an examination of his work , Apocalypse, my aim, in this article,  is to show how Lawrence negates orthodox religious thinking, by showing not only how religious scribes mutilated and destroyed an original pagan text, but also, how a morphological shift in language helped fuel false ideals. Taking Stoicism as his starting point, I will try to prove that the doctrine of Zeno of Citium, concerning man’s affinity with the universe, forms the kernel of truth for his own personal philosophy. This article is divided into three sections. The first section will show how Lawrence shared many of the beliefs of Zeno of Citium, the founder of the philosophy of Stoicism. The second section aims to show how Lawrence defies meaning through an examination of the Book of Revelation. The third section explores apocalyptic symbols revealing Lawrence’s unique interpretation of them.
Isolation and Communication A Stylistic Analysis of Thought Presentation in Mrs. Dalloway
Authors: Guo Hua
Published: January 2017

Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf is well-acclaimed for its almost non-intrusive portrayal of characters’ state of mind. Many studies approach it from biographical, socio-historical, philosophical, and other non-linguistic perspectives, and most linguistic investigations deal with illustrative examples of a single linguistic device in this novel. Few are concerned with the presence of particular linguistic patterns that explain how the intricate flow of thought is successfully depicted. This paper offers a detailed elaboration on the criteria for categorizing thought presentation in Leech& Short’s model and distinguishes cases of ambiguity. A case study of Mrs. Dalloway’s flower purchase scene illustrates how different types of thought presentation along with different reporting clauses are used to convey the variation in the character’s mental state and the negotiation between her inner voice and the outside world.
“Laf wan kill me die” (I almost died laughing): An analysis of Akpos jokes and the readers’ responses
Authors: Filani Ibukun
Published: January 2017

Studies on humour have acknowledged that responses to jokes are important aspects of a joking exchange; however, investigation of joke recipients’ responses has received little attention from humour scholars. Moreover, the linguistic investigations of jokes have been limited to native speakers’ contexts, leaving ESL contexts out. Therefore, this study examines readers’ responses to a genre of jokes in Nigerian online spheres, Akpos jokes, with a view to characterising their forms and functions. Akpos jokes are humorous narratives created around an imaginary character called Akpos. Jokes are randomly collected from a blog and readers’ responses were derived from a Facebook page in which Akpos jokes are published. Using computer paralanguage and language mixing in writing the jokes and the responses, the jokes and the reactions to them mirror the online and the Nigerian ESL contexts in which they are situated. Readers use their responses to indicate affiliation, disaffiliation with the joke, or to introduce something that has nothing to do with the subject of the joke or humour. Readers also use their responses to argue for and/or against the humorousness the jokes.
Nymphoides krishnakesara var. bispinosa (Menyanthaceae), a new taxon from the lateritc plateau of Northern Kerala, India
Authors: P Biju
Published: January 2017

The new taxon Nymphoides krishnakesara var. bispinosa, collected from the ponds in the lateritic plateau of northern Kerala, India is described and illustrated. It shows close similarity with Nymphoides krishnakesara var. krishnakesara but can easily be identified by its pinkish tinged veins on the floating leaves and two long stout spines on the seeds.
Cesium reversibly suppresses HeLa cell proliferation by inhibiting cellular metabolism
Authors: Kobayashi Daisuke , Kakinouchi Kei , Nagae Tomoki , Nagai Toshihiko , Shimura Kiyohito , Hazama Akihiro
Published: January 2017

The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of Cs+ on cultured human cells. We find that HeLa cell growth is suppressed by the addition of 10 mm CsCl into the culture media. In the Cs+‐treated cells, the intracellular Cs+ and K+ concentrations are increased and decreased, respectively. This leads to a decrease in activity of the glycolytic enzyme pyruvate kinase, which uses K+ as a cofactor. Cs+‐treated cells show an intracellular pH shift towards alkalization. Based on these results, CsCl presumably suppresses HeLa cell proliferation by inducing an intracellular cation imbalance that affects cell metabolism. Our findings may have implications for the use of Cs+ in cancer therapy.
The marine atmospheric boundary layer under strong wind conditions: Organized turbulence structure and flux estimates by airborne measurements
Authors: Brilouet Pierre‐Etienne , Durand Pierre , Canut Guylaine
Published: January 2017

During winter, cold air outbreaks take place in the northwestern Mediterranean sea. They are characterized by local strong winds (Mistral and Tramontane) which transport cold and dry continental air across a warmer sea. In such conditions, high values of surface sensible and latent heat flux are observed, which favor deep oceanic convection. The HyMeX/ASICS‐MED field campaign was devoted to the study of these processes. Airborne measurements, gathered in the Gulf of Lion during the winter of 2013, allowed for the exploration of the mean and turbulent structure of the marine atmospheric boundary layer (MABL). A spectral analysis based on an analytical model was conducted on 181 straight and level runs. Profiles of characteristic length scales and sharpness parameter of the vertical wind spectrum revealed larger eddies along the mean wind direction associated with an organization of the turbulence field into longitudinal rolls. These were highlighted by boundary layer cloud bands on high‐resolution satellite images. A one‐dimensional description of the vertical exchanges is then a tricky issue. Since the knowledge of the flux profile throughout the entire MABL is essential for the estimation of air‐sea exchanges, a correction of eddy covariance turbulent fluxes was developed taking into account the systematic and random errors due to sampling and data processing. This allowed the improvement of surface fluxes estimates, computed from the extrapolation of the stacked levels. A comparison between those surface fluxes and bulk fluxes computed at a moored buoy revealed considerable differences, mainly regarding the latent heat flux under strong wind conditions.
Geomagnetically induced currents: Science, engineering, and applications readiness
Authors: Pulkkinen A. , Bernabeu E. , Thomson A. , Viljanen A. , Pirjola R. , Boteler D. , Eichner J. , Cilliers P. J. , Welling D. , Savani N. P. , Weigel R. S. , Love J. J. , Balch C. , Ngwira C. M. , Crowley G. , Schultz A. , Kataoka R. , Anderson B. , Fugate D. , Simpson J. J. , MacAlester M.
Published: January 2017

This paper is the primary deliverable of the very first NASA Living With a Star Institute Working Group, Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) Working Group. The paper provides a broad overview of the current status and future challenges pertaining to the science, engineering, and applications of the GIC problem. Science is understood here as the basic space and Earth sciences research that allows improved understanding and physics‐based modeling of the physical processes behind GIC. Engineering, in turn, is understood here as the “impact” aspect of GIC. Applications are understood as the models, tools, and activities that can provide actionable information to entities such as power systems operators for mitigating the effects of GIC and government agencies for managing any potential consequences from GIC impact to critical infrastructure. Applications can be considered the ultimate goal of our GIC work. In assessing the status of the field, we quantify the readiness of various applications in the mitigation context. We use the Applications Readiness Level (ARL) concept to carry out the quantification.
Paper‐Based Digital Microfluidic Chip for Multiple Electrochemical Assay Operated by a Wireless Portable Control System
Authors: Ruecha Nipapan , Lee Jumi , Chae Heedo , Cheong Haena , Soum Veasna , Preechakasedkit Pattarachaya , Chailapakul Orawon , Tanev Georgi , Madsen Jan , Rodthongkum Nadnudda , Kwon Oh‐Sun , Shin Kwanwoo
Published: January 2017

The printing and modular fabrication of a paper‐based active microfluidic lab on a chip implemented with electrochemical sensors (ECSs) is developed and integrated on a portable electrical control system. The electrodes of a chip plate for active electrowetting actuation of digital drops and an ECS for multiple analysis assays are fabricated by affordable printing techniques. For enhanced sensitivity of the sensor, the working electrode is modified through the electrochemical method, namely by reducing graphene with voltammetry and coating gold nanoparticles by amperometry. Detachable sensor and absorber modules are assembled modularly on an open chip plate, forming various novel hybridized open–closed chip formats. By varying the coupled or decoupled sensor modules, excellent detection of three diagnostic biological molecules is demonstrated (glucose, dopamine, and uric acid in human serum). With a newly designed portable power supply and wireless control system, the active paper‐based chip platform can be utilized as an advanced point‐of‐care device for multiple assays in digital microfluidics.
Photoluminescence Quantum Yield in Ensembles of Si Nanocrystals
Authors: Chung Nguyen Xuan , Limpens Rens , Gregorkiewicz Tom
Published: January 2017

This study investigates the photoluminescence quantum yield for co‐sputtered solid‐state dispersions of Si nanocrystals in SiO2 with different size and density, and concludes that the absolute value of the photoluminescence quantum yield shows a varied dependence on the excitation energy. Physical mechanisms influencing the photoluminescence quantum yield at different excitation energy ranges are considered. Based on the experimental evidence, this study proposes a generalized description of the excitation dependence of photoluminescence quantum yield of Si nanocrystals in SiO2, and concludes on the important role of impact excitation by hot carriers and parasitic absorption at high and low excitation energy ranges, respectively.
Engineering Processes at the Interface of p‐Semiconductor for Enhancing the Open Circuit Voltage in p‐Type Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Favereau Ludovic , Pellegrin Yann , Hirsch Lionel , Renaud Adèle , Planchat Aurélien , Blart Errol , Louarn Guy , Cario Laurent , Jobic Stéphane , Boujtita Mohammed , Odobel Fabrice
Published: January 2017

To prevent the interfacial charge recombination between injected holes in the valence band and the redox mediator in the electrolyte in p‐type dye sensitized solar cells (p‐DSSC) the passivation of the recombination sites by organic insulator chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) layer is critically investigated in this study. Rather than classical coating of the semiconductor's surface by simultaneous co‐adsorption of CDCA during the dyeing step, two other methods are investigated. The first consists in dissolving CDCA in the electrolyte, while the second consists in spin coating an ethanol solution of CDCA onto the already dyed photocathode. In this study, different sensitizers, electrolytes, and p‐SCs, (NiO, CuGaO2) are explored. Analysis of the current/voltage curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy provides evidence that the role of the CDCA layer is to create a physical barrier to prevent the approach of the redox mediator from the NiO surface and consequently raise the open circuit voltage (Voc). The important finding of this study is the demonstration that the Voc in p‐DSSC is heavily limited by interfacial charge recombination and that higher Voc values much above 100 mV and as high as 500 mV can be attained with conventional materials (NiO) if this deleterious side reaction can be suppressed or diminished.
Coordination of Winegrape Supply Chains in Emerging Markets
Authors: Chaddad Fabio R. , Franken Jason R.V. , Gómez Miguel I. , Ross R. Brent
Published: January 2017

This study investigates factors influencing coordination of winegrape procurement in emerging wine regions in Michigan, Missouri, and New York. Wineries in these emerging regions face different vertical coordination challenges than in well‐established regions, which may affect procurement choices. Results corroborate prior findings that quality considerations and the need to safeguard investments in specialized assets, respectively, increase usage of more formal coordination mechanisms like written contracts and vertical integration or ownership. Consistent with prior findings of studies of wineries in established wine regions, we find that perceived difficulty in measuring grape quality attributes leads to tighter coordination; a point previously undocumented for emerging regions. [EconLit citation: Q130]
What Happens After the Demonstration Phase? The Sustainability of Canada's At Home/Chez Soi Housing First Programs for Homeless Persons with Mental Illness
Authors: Nelson Geoffrey , Caplan Rachel , MacLeod Timothy , Macnaughton Eric , Cherner Rebecca , Aubry Tim , Méthot Christian , Latimer Eric , Piat Myra , Plenert Erin , McCullough Scott , Zell Sarah , Patterson Michelle , Stergiopoulos Vicky , Goering Paula
Published: January 2017

This research examined the sustainability of Canada's At Home/Chez Soi Housing First (HF) programs for homeless persons with mental illness 2 years after the end of the demonstration phase of a large (more than 2000 participants enrolled), five‐site, randomized controlled trial. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 142 participants (key informants, HF staff, and persons with lived experience) to understand sustainability outcomes and factors that influenced those outcomes. Also, a self‐report HF fidelity measure was completed for nine HF programs that continued after the demonstration project. A cross‐site analysis was performed, using the five sites as case studies. The findings revealed that nine of the 12 HF programs (75%) were sustained, and that seven of the nine programs reported a high level of fidelity (achieving an overall score of 3.5 or higher on a 4‐point scale). The sites varied in terms of the level of systems integration and expansion of HF that were achieved. Factors that promoted or impeded sustainability were observed at multiple ecological levels: broad contextual (i.e., dissemination of research evidence, the policy context), community (i.e., partnerships, the presence of HF champions), organizational (i.e., leadership, ongoing training, and technical assistance), and individual (i.e., staff turnover, changes, and capacity). The findings are discussed in terms of the implementation science literature and their implications for how evidence‐based programs like HF can be sustained.
Palladium nanoparticles immobilized on magnetic methionine‐functionalized chitosan: A versatile catalyst for Suzuki and copper‐free Sonogashira reactions of aryl halides at room temperature in water as only solvent
Authors: Hajipour Abdol R. , Tavangar‐Rizi Zeinab
Published: January 2017

The preparation of an efficient heterogeneous catalyst system based on the immobilization of palladium nanoparticles on a magnetic nanoparticle core (ImmPd(0)‐MNPs) is described. The new catalytic system was characterized using transmission and scanning electron microscopies, X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersive X‐ray and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, vibrating sample magnetometry and inductively coupled plasma analysis. We have demonstrated that ImmPd(0)‐MNPs is an efficient and reusable catalyst for the Suzuki–Miyaura and Sonogashira coupling reactions of various types of aryl halides in water as a green and environmentally acceptable solvent. Moreover, the reactions were carried out efficiently at room temperature. The catalyst was easily separated using an external magnet from the reaction mixture and recycled ten times without significant loss of activity.
New Rh(III) complexes of 5‐methyl‐5‐(pyridyl)‐2,4‐imidazolidenedione: Synthesis, X‐ray structure, electrochemical study and catalytic behaviour for hydrogenation of ketones
Authors: Sabounchei Seyyed Javad , Sayadi Mohsen , Hashemi Mojdeh Sadat , Hashemi Ali , Nematollahi Davood , Salahifar Eslam , Gable Robert W.
Published: January 2017

We describe the reaction of anion [RhCl6]3− with a series of hydantoin ligands (HL1, HL2 and HL3 = 5‐methyl‐5‐(2‐, 3‐ and 4‐pyridyl)‐2,4‐imidazolidenedione, respectively). Based on spectroscopic, cyclic voltammetric, elemental and MS analyses, the complexes have the general formula K[RhCl2(L1)2] (1), cis‐ and trans‐K[RhCl4(HL2)2] (2a and 2b) and cis‐ and trans‐K[RhCl4(HL3)2] (3a and 3b). Complexes 2a, 2b, 3a and 3b were characterized successfully using infrared, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectral analyses. Dissolution of complex 1 in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) led to elimination of one KL1 ligand and coordination of two DMSO molecules as ligands and transformation of this complex to cis‐ and trans‐[RhCl2L1(DMSO)2] (1a and 1b). Recrystallization led to separation and isolation of crystals of 1a from the initial mixture. X‐ray analysis results showed that this complex was crystallized as solvated complex cis‐[RhCl2L1(DMSO)2]DMSO. The catalytic activity of these complexes was then evaluated for the hydrogenation of various ketones.
Molecular cloning, expression profile, odorant affinity, and stability of two odorant‐binding proteins in Macrocentrus cingulum Brischke (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Ahmed Tofael , Zhang Tiantao , Wang Zhenying , He Kanglai , Bai Shuxiong
Published: January 2017

The polyembryonic endoparasitoid wasp Macrocentrus cingulum Brischke (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is deployed successfully as a biocontrol agent for corn pest insects from the Lepidopteran genus Ostrinia in Europe and throughout Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China. The odorants are recognized, bound, and solubilized by odorant‐binding protein (OBP) in the initial biochemical recognition steps in olfaction that transport them across the sensillum lymph to initiate behavioral response. In the present study, we examine the odorant‐binding effects on thermal stability of McinOBP2, McinOBP3, and their mutant form that lacks the third disulfide bonds. Real‐time PCR experiments indicate that these two are expressed mainly in adult antennae, with expression levels differing by sex. Odorant‐binding affinities of aldehydes, terpenoids, and aliphatic alcohols were measured with circular dichroism spectroscopy based on changes in the thermal stability of the proteins upon their affinities to odorants. The obtained results reveal higher affinity of trans‐caryophelle, farnesene, and cis‐3‐Hexen‐1‐ol exhibits to both wild and mutant McinOBP2 and McinOBP3. Although conformational flexibility of the mutants and shape of binding cavity make differences in odorant affinity between the wild‐type and mutant, it suggested that lacking the third disulfide bond in mutant proteins may have chance to incorrect folded structures that reduced the affinity to these odorants. In addition, CD spectra clearly indicate proteins enriched with α‐helical content.
2‐Benzamido‐4‐methylthiazole‐5‐carboxylic Acid Derivatives as Potential Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors and Free Radical Scavengers
Authors: Ali Md. Rahmat , Kumar Suresh , Afzal Obaid , Shalmali Nishtha , Ali Wazid , Sharma Manju , Bawa Sandhya
Published: January 2017

The new chemical entities febuxostat and topiroxostat have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, opening new avenues for exploiting different heterocycles other than purines as xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitors. A different series of substituted 2‐benzamido‐4‐methylthiazole‐5‐carboxylic acid derivatives (5a–r) was synthesized and characterized by the collective use of IR, 1H and 13C NMR, and mass spectroscopy, for the treatment of gout and hyperuricemia. In vitro studies of the synthesized derivatives revealed that the presence of a fluoro group at the para position in 5b (IC50 = 0.57 μm) and a chloro group in 5c (IC50 = 0.91 μm) signifies excellent XO inhibitory activity among the series, along with their DPPH free radial scavenging activity. In vivo serum uric acid inhibition studies established that 5b and 5c displayed 62 and 53% uric acid inhibition, respectively. Studies on enzyme kinetics indicated that 5b acts as a mixed type inhibitor. In silico prediction by various softwares also helped in the recognition of potent XO inhibitors.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind Trial of Abatacept (CTLA‐4Ig) for the Treatment of Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Langford Carol A. , Cuthbertson David , Ytterberg Steven R. , Khalidi Nader , Monach Paul A. , Carette Simon , Seo Philip , Moreland Larry W. , Weisman Michael , Koening Curry L. , Sreih Antoine G. , Spiera Robert , McAlear Carol A. , Warrington Kenneth J. , Pagnoux Christian , McKinnon Kathleen , Forbess Lindsy J. , Hoffman Gary S. , Borchin Renée , Krischer Jeffrey P. , Merkel Peter A. ,   for the Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium
Published: January 2017

Objective

To compare the efficacy of abatacept to that of placebo for the treatment of giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Methods

In this multicenter trial, patients with newly diagnosed or relapsing GCA were treated with abatacept 10 mg/kg intravenously on days 1, 15, and 29 and week 8, together with prednisone administered daily. At week 12, patients in remission underwent a double‐blinded randomization to continue to receive abatacept monthly or switch to placebo. Patients in both study arms received a standardized prednisone taper, with discontinuation of prednisone at week 28. All patients remained on their randomized assignment until meeting criteria for early termination or until 12 months after enrollment of the last patient. The primary end point was duration of remission (relapse‐free survival rate).

Results

Forty‐nine eligible patients with GCA were enrolled and treated with prednisone and abatacept; of these, 41 reached the week 12 randomization and underwent a blinded randomization to receive abatacept or placebo. Prednisone was tapered using a standardized schedule, reaching a daily dosage of 20 mg at week 12 with discontinuation in all patients at week 28. The relapse‐free survival rate at 12 months was 48% for those receiving abatacept and 31% for those receiving placebo (P = 0.049). A longer median duration of remission was seen in those receiving abatacept compared to those receiving placebo (median duration 9.9 months versus 3.9 months; P = 0.023). There was no difference in the frequency or severity of adverse events, including infection, between the treatment arms.

Conclusion

In patients with GCA, the addition of abatacept to a treatment regimen with prednisone reduced the risk of relapse and was not associated with a higher rate of toxicity compared to prednisone alone.
Dipyrrin‐Bis(N‐Confused Porphyrin) Conjugate: Synthesis, Synergetic Ligation and Chirality Sensing
Authors: Wojaczyński Jacek , Maciołek Justyna , Chmielewski Piotr J.
Published: January 2017

A fully conjugated system 4 consisting of two 2‐aza‐21‐carbaporphyrin (NCP) subunits bridged by dipyrrin was synthesized by a highly selective condensation of 3‐pyrrole‐NCP 2 with aryl aldehydes. The free base 4 as well as its silver(III) complex 5 exhibited flexibility of the bridge allowing synergetic binding of AgI, thus leading to a mixed‐valence tetraporphyrinic assembly consisting of eight silver atoms which was characterized both in the solid state and in solution. Binding of chiral acid by 4 and 5 was shown by observation of an induced optical activity of the adducts.
Non‐homologous end joining: Common interaction sites and exchange of multiple factors in the DNA repair process
Authors: Rulten Stuart L. , Grundy Gabrielle J.
Published: January 2017

Non‐homologous end‐joining (NHEJ) is the dominant means of repairing chromosomal DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), and is essential in human cells. Fifteen or more proteins can be involved in the detection, signalling, synapsis, end‐processing and ligation events required to repair a DSB, and must be assembled in the confined space around the DNA ends. We review here a number of interaction points between the core NHEJ components (Ku70, Ku80, DNA‐PKcs, XRCC4 and Ligase IV) and accessory factors such as kinases, phosphatases, polymerases and structural proteins. Conserved protein‐protein interaction sites such as Ku‐binding motifs (KBMs), XLF‐like motifs (XLMs), FHA and BRCT domains illustrate that different proteins compete for the same binding sites on the core machinery, and must be spatially and temporally regulated. We discuss how post‐translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ADP‐ribosylation and ubiquitinylation may regulate sequential steps in the NHEJ pathway or control repair at different types of DNA breaks.
Identification of recurrentBRCA1 mutation and its clinical relevance in Chinese Triple‐negative breast cancer cohort
Authors: Liu Xiaoran , Li Huiping , Shao Bin , Wu Jianmin , Kong Weiyao , Song Guohong , Jiang Hanfang , Wang Jing , Wan Fengling
Published: January 2017

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15–20% of all newly diagnosed breast cancers, and is enriched for germline mutation ofBRCA. In Asian patients diagnosed with breast cancer, 268 deleterious mutations ofBRCA1and 242 ofBRCA2have been identified so far, including a reportedBRCA1frameshift mutation (rs80350973), apparently found only in Asian people, with a low prevalence of 0.3–1.7% in different breast cancer cohorts. Here, we reported the high prevalence (7.2%) of rs80350973 among 125 Chinese patients with TNBC, which implies its mutational predilection for certain breast cancer subtypes. Although its low prevalence had not indicated any particular clinical significance in previous studies, our results associated rs80350973 mutation with cell checkpoint malfunction, and was found to be more common in TNBC patients with high Ki‐67 indices (P = 0.004). As Ki‐67 overexpression is a predictor of poor prognosis in TNBC, inclusion of this mutation into genetic assessments may improve the clinical management of Chinese patients with TNBC.
Clinicopathologic characteristics and outcomes of Chinese patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer and BRAF mutation
Authors: Ding Xi , Zhang Zengli , Jiang Tao , Li Xuefei , Zhao Chao , Su Bo , Zhou Caicun
Published: January 2017

BRAF mutation is one of the important driver oncogene in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Data on Chinese patients with BRAF‐mutant NSCLC are inadequate. Hence, we conducted this study to investigate the clinicopathologic features and outcomes of Chinese patients with NSCLC and BRAF mutations. We identified patients with BRAF‐mutant NSCLC between January 2012 and April 2016. Patient characteristics and treatment outcomes were analyzed. In total, 1680 patients were included. Twenty‐eight (1.7%) patients harbored BRAF mutations. Compared to patients with non‐BRAF mutation, patients with BRAF mutations were associated with adenocarcinomas (89.3% vs. 70.6%, P = 0.048) and never smokers (78.6% vs. 56.7%, P = 0.019). There were no significant differences in the age, gender distribution, metastasis, or stage at first diagnosis between two groups. Response rates and progression‐free survival (PFS) were similar between patient with BRAF mutations and EGFR (5.6 vs. 5.8 months; P = 0.277) or KRAS (5.6 vs. 4.7 months; P = 0.741) mutations to first‐line chemotherapy. Compared to patients with non‐V600E mutations, patients with V600E‐mutated tumors had a shorter PFS to first‐line chemotherapy, although this did not reach statistical significance (5.2 vs. 6.4 months; P = 0.561). In multivariate analyses, only ECOG PS remained the independent predictor of overall survival (HR = 0.208; P = 0.004). In conclusion, BRAF mutation in Chinese patients with NSCLC was rare. BRAF mutation is more likely to be associated with adenocarcinoma and never smokers. BRAF mutations are not associated with enhanced chemosensitivity and novel and effective drugs inhibiting the BRAF pathway are in urgent need.
Cancer‐related outcomes in kidney allograft recipients in England versus New York State: a comparative population‐cohort analysis between 2003 and 2013
Authors: Jackson‐Spence Francesca , Gillott Holly , Tahir Sanna , Nath Jay , Mytton Jemma , Evison Felicity , Sharif Adnan
Published: January 2017

It is unclear whether cancer‐related epidemiology after kidney transplantation is translatable between countries. In this population‐cohort study, we compared cancer incidence and all‐cause mortality after extracting data for every kidney‐alone transplant procedure performed in England and New York State (NYS) between 2003 and 2013. Data were analyzed for 18,493 and 11,602 adult recipients from England and NYS respectively, with median follow up 6.3 years and 5.5 years respectively (up to December 2014). English patients were more likely to have previous cancer at time of transplantation compared to NYS patients (5.6% vs. 3.5%, P < 0.001). Kidney allograft recipients in England versus NYS had increased cancer incidence (12.3% vs. 5.9%, P < 0.001) but lower all‐cause mortality during the immediate postoperative stay (0.7% vs. 1.0%, P = 0.011), after 30‐days (0.9% vs. 1.8%, P < 0.001) and after 1‐year post‐transplantation (3.0% vs. 5.1%, P < 0.001). However, mortality rates among patients developing post‐transplant cancer were equivalent between the two countries. During the first year of follow up, if patients had an admission with a cancer diagnosis, they were more likely to die in both England (Odds Ratio 4.28 [95% CI: 3.09–5.93], P < 0.001) and NYS (Odds Ratio 2.88 [95% CI: 1.70–4.89], P < 0.001). Kidney allograft recipients in NYS demonstrated higher hazard ratios for developing kidney transplant rejection/failure compared to England on Cox regression analysis. Our analysis demonstrates significant differences in cancer‐related epidemiology between kidney allograft recipients in England versus NYS, suggesting caution in translating post‐transplant cancer epidemiology between countries.
MiR‐101 and doxorubicin codelivered by liposomes suppressing malignant properties of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xu Fei , Liao Jia‐Zhi , Xiang Guang‐Ya , Zhao Peng‐Xuan , Ye Feng , Zhao Qiu , He Xing‐Xing
Published: January 2017

MiR‐101, an important tumor‐suppressive microRNA (miRNA) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has been affirmed significantly downregulated in HCC and participated in promoting apoptosis, decreasing proliferation and invasiveness of HCC cells, as well as increasing sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drug. However, miR‐101‐based combination therapies with doxorubicin (DOX) are not reported yet. Recently, nanomaterials‐based approaches, especially liposome formulations, have been approved for clinical use and seem to provide a great opportunity to codeliver therapeutic agents for cancer therapy. In this study, we have successfully prepared liposome (L) nanoparticles to efficiently deliver miR‐101 and DOX to HCC cells simultaneously. The effects of codelivery system miR‐101/doxorubicin liposome (miR‐101/DOX‐L) on tumor malignant phenotypes of HCC cells were evaluated through analyzing cell proliferation, colony formation, cell migration, cell invasion, cell apoptosis assay, and the expression of related genes. In subcutaneous xenografts developed by HCC cells, the inhibition of tumor growth was analyzed through gross morphology, growth curve, proliferation marker Ki‐67, apoptosis signals, and the expression of related genes. These experiments demonstrated that miR‐101/DOX‐L inhibited tumor properties of liver cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through targeting correlative genes by combinatory role of miR‐101 and DOX. In conclusion, our results indicated that liposome nanoparticle is a reliable delivery strategy to codeliver miR‐101 and DOX simultaneously, and miR‐101‐ and DOX‐based combination therapy can result in significant synergetic antitumor effects in vivo and vitro.
A case of penile Buschke–Lowenstein tumor in a developing country
Authors: Patel Rajeev , Kaloucava Sireli
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

Buschke–Löwenstein tumor is a rare manifestation of a sexually transmitted human papilloma virus infection that affects the anogenital area. Wide local excision of the lesion is the mainstay of treatment. Malignancy though must be excluded.
Fatal delayed rupture of the subclavian artery in a patient with first‐rib fracture caused by blunt trauma
Authors: Yonezawa Naoki , Nakayama Yusuke , Takei Tetsuhiro , Toh Masafumi , Asano Mitsutoshi , Imamura Tomonori , Ito Toshitaka
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the probable association of significantly displaced posterior first‐rib fracture and jagged edges of the fracture line following blunt chest trauma with delayed ipsilateral subclavian artery rupture. Early angiography and first‐rib repair should promptly be considered under such circumstances.
Water as Cosolvent: Nonviscous Deep Eutectic Solvents for Efficient Lipase‐Catalyzed Esterifications
Authors: Guajardo Nadia , Domínguez de María Pablo , Ahumada Katherine , Schrebler Rodrigo A. , Ramírez‐Tagle Rodrigo , Crespo Fernando A. , Carlesi Carlos
Published: January 2017

The use of deep eutectic solvent (DES)/water mixtures were explored for the selective enzymatic synthesis of α‐monobenzoate glycerol (α‐MBG) from glycerol and benzoic acid as substrates. Experiments were performed with four DES, three of them containing choline chloride (ChCl), combined with urea (URA), glycerol (GLY), and ethylene glycol (ETA) (in all cases ChCl/HBD 1:2 mol ratio), and another one formed with methylammonium chloride and glycerol (MA/GLY 1:3 mol ratio). The best conversions (99 %) were achieved with immobilized lipase B from Candida antarctica (CAL‐B) when ChCl/GLY was used as the solvent and the substrate at the same time. The use of water as a cosolvent (8 % v/v) led to a significant decrease in the viscosity of the DES, and full conversions were then reached. Reusability studies of the biocatalyst revealed a 37 % decrease in activity after the first batch, but the activity remained mostly constant for the rest of the cycles.
Cyclopentanone as an Alternative Linking Reactant for Heterogeneously Catalyzed Furfural Aldol Condensation
Authors: Cueto Jennifer , Faba Laura , Díaz Eva , Ordóñez Salvador
Published: January 2017

The use of cyclopentanone, instead of acetone, in the synthesis of diesel precursors by furfural aldol condensation is proposed. This reaction is catalyzed by a magnesium–zirconium mixed oxide. To optimize the C15 selectivity, different temperatures (293, 303, 313, and 323 K) and initial furfural/cyclopentanone ratios (1:1, 3:1, 5:1, and 10:1) were tested. Under the optimum conditions, yields for the desired C15 adduct are higher than 60 % in less than 4 h under mild conditions (303 K).
Kinetic Energy Transfer between First Proper Orthogonal Decomposition Modes in a Mixing Tank
Authors: Gabelle Jean-Christophe , Morchain Jérôme , Liné Alain
Published: January 2017

Two‐dimensional particle image velocimetry (PIV) was applied to study hydrodynamics in a mixing tank at medium Reynolds numbers. Post‐processing of PIV data was based on proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) which enabled to reconstruct organized motion induced by impeller blades without performing angle‐averaged sampling. Energy transfers between POD modes were analyzed. In particular, a local analysis of the modal interactions was developed in terms of energy transfer between the first mode, i.e., mean flow, and successive modes, i.e., organized motion. Eventually, derivation of transfer of energy between the second mode and fourth or fifth ones reveals a double pulsation.
Ni Foam‐Ni3S2@Ni(OH)2‐Graphene Sandwich Structure Electrode Materials: Facile Synthesis and High Supercapacitor Performance
Authors: Wang Xiaobing , Hu Jiangjiang , Su Yichang , Hao Jin , Liu Fanggang , Han Shuang , An Jian , Lian Jianshe
Published: January 2017

A novel Ni foam‐Ni3S2@Ni(OH)2‐graphene sandwich‐structured electrode (NF‐NN‐G) with high areal mass loading (8.33 mg cm−2) has been developed by sulfidation and hydrolysis reactions. The conductivity of Ni3S2 and Ni(OH)2 were both improved. The upper layer of Ni(OH)2, covered with a thin graphene film, is formed in situ from the surface of the lower layer of Ni3S2, whereas the Ni3S2 grown on Ni foam substrate mainly acts as a rough support bridging the Ni(OH)2 and Ni foam. The graphene stabilized the Ni(OH)2 and the electrochemical properties were effectively enhanced. The as‐synthesized NF‐NN‐G‐5mg electrode shows a high specific capacitance (2258 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 or 18.81 F cm−2 at 8.33 mA cm−2) and an outstanding rate property (1010 F g−1 at 20 Ag−1 or 8.413 F cm−2 at 166.6 mA cm−2). This result is around double the capacitance achieved in previous research on Ni3S2@Ni(OH)2/3DGN composites (3DGN=three‐dimensional graphene network). In addition, the as‐fabricated NF‐NN‐G‐5mg composite electrode has an excellent cycle life with no capacitance loss after 3000 cycles, indicating a potential application as an efficient electrode.
Frustrated Lewis Pair Mediated Csp3−H Activation
Authors: Rochette Étienne , Courtemanche Marc‐André , Fontaine Frédéric‐Georges
Published: January 2017

The cleavage of a Csp3−H bond by an N/B frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) is reported. Upon mild heating, the ambiphilic molecule (2‐NMe2‐C6H4)2BH activates the C−H bond of a methyl group in α position of a nitrogen atom to generate an unprecedented N–B heterocycle. Upon further heating, the novel species rearranges through a hydride abstraction/1,2‐aryl shift sequence. The mechanistic details of these transformations are investigated by quantum mechanical calculations.
Organic Molecular Layer with High Electrochemical Bistability: Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of a Dynamic Redox System with Lipoate Units for Binding to Au(111)
Authors: Ohta Eisuke , Uehara Hiromitsu , Han Ying , Wada Kazuhisa , Noguchi Hidenori , Katoono Ryo , Ishigaki Yusuke , Ikeda Hiroshi , Uosaki Kohei , Suzuki Takanori
Published: January 2017

Biphenyl‐2,2′‐diylbis(10‐methyl‐9‐methyleneacridan)‐type electron donor 1, which has two tethered cyclic disulfide units at the 6,6′‐positions, was designed and synthesized as the first member of a dynamic redox (dyrex) system that can form molecular layers on a Au(111) electrode. Upon the two‐electron (2 e) oxidation of 1, the persistent dicationic dye 22+ was generated with the formation of a new C−C bond, which is reversibly cleaved upon 2 e reduction to regenerate 1 (dyrex behavior). Similar dyrex interconversion occurs in the molecular layer of 1 on gold. The chemical identities of 1/Au and electrochemically generated 22+/Au were unambiguously determined by in situ IR spectroscopy in the attenuated total reflection mode. In situ scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) was conducted under electrochemical conditions to examine the surface structure of 1 adsorbed on a Au(111) electrode. Although no long‐range‐ordered morphology was found in the STM image of 1, an in situ STM study of the potential‐induced dyrex reaction of 1 to 22+ showed that the grained spots in the image became slightly brighter.