bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Structure, and Cytotoxicity of a New Sulphanyl‐Bridged Thiadiazolyl‐Saccharinate Conjugate: The Relevance of S⋅⋅⋅N Interaction
Authors: Cabral Lília I. L. , Brás Elisa M. , Henriques Marta S. C. , Marques Catia , Frija Luís M. T. , Barreira Luísa , Paixão José António , Fausto Rui , Cristiano Maria Lurdes S.
Published: December 2017

Reports showing that the copper concentration is considerably higher in neoplasms than in normal tissues prompted the need to develop selective copper chelators. We disclosed recently that some N‐linked tetrazole‐saccharinates bind selectively to copper, forming complexes that are highly cytotoxic towards cancer cells. Because tetrazole‐saccharinates are photolabile, due to the photoreactivity of tetrazoles, we proposed thiadiazolyl‐saccharinates as an alternative. Herein we describe the synthesis, structure, and monomeric photochemistry of a sulphanyl‐bridged thiadiazolyl‐saccharinate, 3‐[(5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)sulphanyl]‐1,2‐benzothiazole 1,1‐dioxide (MTSB). The monomeric structure, charge density analysis, and characteristic infrared spectrum of MTSB were investigated theoretically, using quantum chemical calculations, and also experimentally, using matrix‐isolation infrared spectroscopy. The crystal structure was investigated by combining X‐ray crystallography with infrared and Raman spectroscopies. Results show that the structure of isolated MTSB is similar to that found in the crystal, with an S⋅⋅⋅N interaction clearly contributing to the structure of the molecule and of the crystal. Matrix irradiation revealed a high photostability of MTSB, compared to parent tetrazole‐saccharinates and to the 5‐methyl‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole building block, emphasizing the photostabilizing effect of the saccharyl system. Finally, in vitro toxicity assays of MTSB showed a copper concentration‐dependent toxicity against cancer cells, without affecting normal cells. In particular, MTSB was most effective towards the hepatic (HepG2), neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5), and lymphoma cell lines (U937). Thus, MTSB represents a promising lead for cancer chemotherapy based on chelating agents.
Selective Base‐free Transfer Hydrogenation of α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds using iPrOH or EtOH as Hydrogen Source
Authors: Farrar‐Tobar Ronald A. , Wei Zhihong , Jiao Haijun , Hinze Sandra , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: December 2017

Commercially available Ru‐MACHOTM‐BH is an active catalyst for the hydrogenation of several functional groups and for the dehydrogenation of alcohols. Herein, we report on the new application of this catalyst to the base‐free transfer hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds. Ru‐MACHOTM‐BH proved to be highly active and selective in this transformation, even with α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds as substrates. The corresponding aliphatic, aromatic and allylic alcohols were obtained in excellent yields with catalyst loadings as low as 0.1–0.5 mol % at mild temperatures after very short reaction times. This protocol tolerates iPrOH and EtOH as hydrogen sources. Additionally, scale up to multi‐gram amounts was performed without any loss of activity or selectivity. An outer‐sphere mechanism has been proposed and the computed kinetics and thermodynamics of crotonaldehyde and 1‐phenyl‐but‐2‐en‐one are in perfect agreement with the experiment.
The Use of Stem Cell Therapy to Reverse Opioid Tolerance
Authors: Li Fei , Liu LiPing , Cheng Kathleen , Chen Zhongbo , Cheng Jianguo
Published: December 2017

Opioid tolerance (OT) and opioid‐induced hyperalgesia (OIH) are major challenges in medicine. Here we report that transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) prevented and reversed OT and OIH in rats and mice. The preventive and therapeutic effects were long‐lasting and consistent across different assessment schemes. Both intrathecal and intravenous transplantations were effective and safe. This emerging therapeutic strategy has thus shown promise to impact clinical practice and improve the efficacy and safety of opioid therapy.
An Industry Perspective on the 2017 EMA Guideline on First‐in‐Human and Early Clinical Trials
Authors: DeGeorge Joseph , Robertson Sarah , Butler Lynne , Derzi Mazin , Stoch S. Aubrey , Diaz Dolores , Hartke James , Guzzie‐Peck Peggy , Mortimer‐Cassen Elisabeth , Bogdanffy Matthew , Will Yvonne , Greene Nigel
Published: December 2017

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2017 issued a revised guideline on nonclinical and clinical aspects of first‐in‐human (FIH) and early clinical trials (CTs). External input was solicited during a draft comment phase, and although some industry suggestions were adopted, others were not. We agree that subject safety is of utmost priority, and believe that minimizing risk must be balanced with efficient and informative study designs to bring new medicines to patients.
Flower‐like Vanadium Suflide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite: An Energy Storage Material for Aluminum‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Wang Shuai , Tu Jiguo , Zhang Guohua , Li Shijie , Tian Donghua , Jiao Shuqiang
Published: December 2017

A flower‐like vanadium sulfide/reduced graphene oxide (VS4/rGO) composite was prepared by a typical hydrothermal method and it was investigated as cathode for aluminum‐ion batteries with non‐inflammable and non‐explosive ionic‐liquid electrolytes. The charge/discharge performance measurements were performed in a voltage range of 0.1–2.0 V versus Al/AlCl4−, which gave an initial charge/discharge specific capacity af approximately 491.57 and 406.94 mA h g−1, respectively, at a current density of 100 mA g−1. Additionally, in the cycling performance, the discharge capacity was observed to remain over 80, 70, and 60 mA h g−1 at current densities of 100, 200, and 300 mA g−1 after 100 cycles, respectively. The result of a coulombic efficiency over 90 % after 100 cycles and high retained capacity indicate that the composite is a favorable cathode material for new rechargeable aluminum‐ion batteries.
Selective Hydrodeoxygenation of Alkyl Lactates to Alkyl Propionates with Fe‐based Bimetallic Supported Catalysts
Authors: Khokarale Santosh Govind , He Jian , Schill Leonhard , Yang Song , Riisager Anders , Saravanamurugan Shunmugavel
Published: December 2017

Hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of methyl lactate (ML) to methyl propionate (MP) was performed with various base‐metal supported catalysts. A high yield of 77 % MP was obtained with bimetallic Fe–Ni/ZrO2 in methanol at 220 °C and 50 bar H2. A synergistic effect of Ni increased the yield of MP significantly when using Fe–Ni/ZrO2 instead of Fe/ZrO2 alone. Moreover, the ZrO2 support contributed to improve the yield as a phase transition of ZrO2 from tetragonal to monoclinic occurred after metal doping giving rise to fine dispersion of the Fe and Ni on the ZrO2, resulting in a higher catalytic activity of the material. Interestingly, it was observed that Fe–Ni/ZrO2 also effectively catalyzed methanol reforming to produce H2 in situ, followed by HDO of ML, yielding 60 % MP at 220 °C with 50 bar N2 instead of H2. Fe–Ni/ZrO2 also catalyzed HDO of other short‐chain alkyl lactates to the corresponding alkyl propionates in high yields around 70 %. No loss of activity of Fe–Ni/ZrO2 occurred in five consecutive reaction runs demonstrating the high durability of the catalyst system.
Simultaneous effect of an external magnetic field and gas‐induced friction on the caging of particles in two‐dimensional Yukawa systems
Authors: Dzhumagulova Karlygash N. , Masheyeva Ranna U. , Ramazanov Tlekkabul S. , Xia Guoxing , Kalimoldayev Maksat N. , Donkó Zoltán
Published: December 2017

We investigate the simultaneous effect of a static homogeneous external magnetic field and a background gas medium on the quasi‐localization of the dust particles—characterized quantitatively by cage correlation functions—in strongly coupled two‐dimensional Yukawa systems. We apply the Langevin dynamics computer simulation method in which the frictional and Lorentz forces are taken into account. Both the presence of the magnetic field and the friction originating from the background gas, when acting alone, increase the caging time. When present simultaneously, however, we find that their effects combine in a non‐trivial manner and act against each other within a window of the parameter values.
A fuzzy logic and game theory based adaptive approach for securing opportunistic networks against black hole attacks
Authors: Chhabra Anshuman , Vashishth Vidushi , Sharma Deepak Kumar
Published: December 2017

Opportunistic networks (OppNets) are networks that can be used in situations of sparse network connectivity. Strategies for implementing secure transmission of messages in OppNets offer complex and distinctive problems that are wholly different from traditional networks using TCP/IP protocols for data transmission. In this paper, a security protocol named FuzzyPT is proposed which combats black hole attacks in OppNets. The defense mechanism is based on the information extracted from messages in the buffer, potential threat (PT) messages, and fuzzy logic. Fuzziness aids the system in being adaptive by modeling the character of nodes as either benign or malicious. It provides the network with the ability to judge the character of nodes based on relationships between different parameters instead of basing this decision on fixed conditions. FuzzyPT is observed to reduce erroneous decision‐making and decrease the number of false positives and false negatives in the system. An evolutionary game theoretic model is applied, which analyzes the decision‐making ability of relays in choosing varied strategies while forwarding messages. The evolutionary stable state is computed for the protocol, which verifies the proposition that a majority of the relays will cooperate by forwarding messages. The efficiency of the protocol is judged on various grounds such as delivery probability, network overhead ratio, packets dropped, and transmission latency. It is observed that the proposed game theoretic protocol outperforms an existing acknowledge and evolutionary game theory–based security protocol in terms of all the aforementioned performance characteristics.
Green‐shifting ofSWS2A opsin sensitivity and loss of function ofRH2‐A opsin in flounders, genusVerasper
Authors: Kasagi Satoshi , Mizusawa Kanta , Takahashi Akiyoshi
Published: December 2017

We identified visual opsin genes for three flounder species, including the spotted halibut (Verasper variegatus), slime flounder (Microstomus achne), and Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). Structure and function of opsins for the three species were characterized together with those of the barfin flounder (V. moseri) that we previously reported. All four flounder species possessed five basic opsin genes, includinglws,sws1,sws2,rh1, andrh2. Specific features were observed inrh2andsws2. Therh2‐a, one of the three subtypes ofrh2, was absent in the genome ofV. variegatusand pseudogenized inV. moseri. Moreover,rh2‐amRNAwas not detected inM. achneandP. olivaceus, despite the presence of a functional reading frame. Analyses of the maximum absorption spectra (λmax) estimated byin vitroreconstitution indicated thatSWS2A ofM. achne(451.9 nm) andP. olivaceus(465.6 nm) were blue‐sensitive, whereas inV. variegatus(485.4 nm), it was green‐sensitive and comparable toV. moseri(482.3 nm). Our results indicate that although the four flounder species possess a similar opsin gene repertoire, theSWS2A opsin of the genusVerasperis functionally green‐sensitive, while its overall structure remains conserved as a blue‐sensitive opsin. Further, therh2‐afunction seems to have been reduced during the evolution of flounders. λmaxvalues of predicted ancestralSWS2A of Pleuronectiformes and Pleuronectidae was 465.4 and 462.4 nm, respectively, indicating that these were blue‐sensitive. Thus, the green‐sensitiveSWS2A is estimated to be arisen in ancestralVeraspergenus. It is suggested that the sensitivity shift ofSWS2A from blue to green may have compensated functional reduction inRH2‐A.
Polygyny does not explain the superior competitive ability of dominant ant associates in the African ant‐plant, Acacia (Vachellia) drepanolobium
Authors: Boyle John H. , Martins Dino J. , Pelaez Julianne , Musili Paul M. , Kibet Staline , Ndung'u S. Kimani , Kenfack David , Pierce Naomi E.
Published: December 2017

The Acacia drepanolobium (also known as Vachellia drepanolobium) ant‐plant symbiosis is considered a classic case of species coexistence, in which four species of tree‐defending ants compete for nesting space in a single host tree species. Coexistence in this system has been explained by trade‐offs in the ability of the ant associates to compete with each other for occupied trees versus the ability to colonize unoccupied trees. We seek to understand the proximal reasons for how and why the ant species vary in competitive or colonizing abilities, which are largely unknown. In this study, we use RADseq‐derived SNPs to identify relatedness of workers in colonies to test the hypothesis that competitively dominant ants reach large colony sizes due to polygyny, that is, the presence of multiple egg‐laying queens in a single colony. We find that variation in polygyny is not associated with competitive ability; in fact, the most dominant species, unexpectedly, showed little evidence of polygyny. We also use these markers to investigate variation in mating behavior among the ant species and find that different species vary in the number of males fathering the offspring of each colony. Finally, we show that the nature of polygyny varies between the two commonly polygynous species, Crematogaster mimosae and Tetraponera penzigi: in C. mimosae, queens in the same colony are often related, while this is not the case for T. penzigi. These results shed light on factors influencing the evolution of species coexistence in an ant‐plant mutualism, as well as demonstrating the effectiveness of RADseq‐derived SNPs for parentage analysis.
Human‐mediated introduction of introgressed deer across Wallace's line: Historical biogeography of Rusa unicolor and R. timorensis
Authors: Martins Renata F. , Schmidt Anke , Lenz Dorina , Wilting Andreas , Fickel Joerns
Published: December 2017

In this study we compared the phylogeographic patterns of two Rusa species, Rusa unicolor and Rusa timorensis, in order to understand what drove and maintained differentiation between these two geographically and genetically close species and investigated the route of introduction of individuals to the islands outside of the Sunda Shelf. We analyzed full mitogenomes from 56 archival samples from the distribution areas of the two species and 18 microsatellite loci in a subset of 16 individuals to generate the phylogeographic patterns of both species. Bayesian inference with fossil calibration was used to estimate the age of each species and major divergence events. Our results indicated that the split between the two species took place during the Pleistocene, ~1.8 Mya, possibly driven by adaptations of R. timorensis to the drier climate found on Java compared to the other islands of Sundaland. Although both markers identified two well‐differentiated clades, there was a largely discrepant pattern between mitochondrial and nuclear markers. While nDNA separated the individuals into the two species, largely in agreement with their museum label, mtDNA revealed that all R. timorensis sampled to the east of the Sunda shelf carried haplotypes from R. unicolor and one Rusa unicolor from South Sumatra carried a R. timorensis haplotype. Our results show that hybridization occurred between these two sister species in Sundaland during the Late Pleistocene and resulted in human‐mediated introduction of hybrid descendants in all islands outside Sundaland.
Functional and phenotypical analysis of IL‐6‐secreting CD4+ T cells in human adipose tissue
Authors: de Jong Anja J. , Pollastro Sabrina , Kwekkeboom Joanneke C. , Andersen Stefan N. , Dorjée Annemarie L. , Bakker Aleida M. , Alzaid Fawaz , Soprani Antoine , Nelissen Rob G.H.H. , Mullers Jan B. , Venteclef Nicolas , de Vries Niek , Kloppenburg Margreet , Toes René E.M. , Ioan‐Facsinay Andreea
Published: December 2017

Emerging evidence indicates that a dynamic interplay between the immune system and adipocytes contributes to the disturbed homeostasis in adipose tissue of obese subjects. Recently, we observed IL‐6‐secretion by CD4+ T cells from the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of the infrapatellar fat pad (IFP) of knee osteoarthritis patients directly ex vivo. Here we show that human IL‐6+CD4+ T cells from SVF display a more activated phenotype than the IL‐6− T cells, as evidenced by the expression of the activation marker CD69. Analysis of cytokines secretion, as well as expression of chemokine receptors and transcription factors associated with different Th subsets (Treg, Th1, Th2, Th17 and Tfh) revealed that IL‐6‐secreting CD4+ T cells cannot be assigned to a conventional Th subset. TCRβ gene analysis revealed that IL‐6+ and IL‐6−CD4+ T cells appear clonally unrelated to each other, suggesting a different specificity of these cells. In line with these observations, adipocytes are capable of enhancing IL‐6 production by CD4+ T cells. Thus, IL‐6+CD4+ T cells are TCRαβ T cells expressing an activated phenotype potentially resulting from an interplay with adipocytes that could be involved in the inflammatory processes in the OA joint.
Ethynyl Complexes of Gold(I) Formed by Transmetallation Using Tin(IV) or Silicon(IV) Compounds
Authors: Klauke Karsten , Werner Svenja , Mohr Fabian
Published: December 2017

A series of ethynyl gold(I) complexes with N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands were prepared through a transmetallation procedure using either nBu3SnC≡CH or TMSC≡CH in the presence of fluoride ions. This methodology represents the first example of using TMSC≡CH as transmetallating agent to gold, and can be considered as a “golden” variant of the Hiyama coupling reaction.
Ruthenium p‐Cymene Iminophosphonamide Complexes: Activation under Basic Conditions and Transfer Hydrogenation Catalysis
Authors: Sinopalnikova Iana S. , Peganova Tatyana A. , Belkova Natalia V. , Deydier Eric , Daran Jean‐Claude , Shubina Elena S. , Kalsin Alexander M. , Poli Rinaldo
Published: December 2017

Complex [(η6‐Cym)RuCl(NPN)] {Cym = p‐cymene; NPN = (pTolN)2PPh2} (1) yields a thermally sensitive hydride derivative [(η6‐Cym)RuH(NPN)] (2) by reaction with iPrOH in the presence of a strong base, via an observable isopropoxide intermediate [(η6‐Cym)Ru(OiPr)(NPN)] (3), or with NaBHEt3 in toluene. Partial conversion also occurs in iPrOH in the absence of base. 2 is stabilized by dihydrogen bonding with isopropyl alcohol, but attempts to isolate it induce isomerization by hydride migration to a ring CH position to yield a 16‐electron cyclohexadienyl derivative [{η5‐p‐C6H5(Me)(iPr)}Ru(NPN)], which has been crystallographically characterized as a disordered mixture of two regioisomers (4/4′). Complex 2 is able to release H2 upon treatment with medium strength proton donors (fluorinated alcohols), but also slowly with iPrOH. 2 is an active catalyst for the transfer hydrogenation of acetophenone to phenylethanol in isopropyl alcohol. The catalytic transformation is first order in acetophenone and first order in catalyst, with k = 117 ± 10 m–1 h–1 at 40 °C. The temperature dependence of the rate constant (25–80 °C) gave the activation parameters ΔH‡ = 9.6 ± 1.3 kcal mol–1 and ΔS‡ = –31 ± 4 cal mol–1 K–1. DFT calculations have validated the slow isomerization of 2 to 4/4′ (high energy TS), the preference of the cyclohexadienyl system for 4/4′ relative to the other isomers 4Me and 4iPr, where the hydride has migrated to the CMe or CiPr position, and suggest that the hydrogen transfer mechanism involves outer sphere hydride transfer to the ketone substrate with H‐bonding assistance of isopropyl alcohol to yield a σ complex intermediate [(η6‐Cym)Ru+(NPN){H‐C(Me)(Ph)O–}].
Synthesis of α,α‐Dichloroketones through Sequential Reaction of Decarboxylative Coupling and Chlorination
Authors: Cho Eunjeong , Kim Myungjin , Jayaraman Aravindan , Kim Jimin , Lee Sunwoo
Published: December 2017

2,2‐Dichloro‐1,2‐diarylethanones were synthesized from diarylalkynes and trichloroisocyanuric acid. The reaction was conducted in CH3CN/H2O at room temperature for 12 h. In addition, the desired 2,2‐dichloro‐1,2‐diarylethanones could be prepared from aryl bromides and propiolic acid through sequential Pd‐catalyzed decarboxylative coupling and chlorination. This method showed moderate to good yields and good tolerance toward functional groups such as chlorides, bromides, aldehydes, and ketones.
Direct Oxidation of Cyclopropanated Cyclooctanes as a Synthetic Approach to Polycyclic Cyclopropyl Ketones
Authors: Sedenkova Kseniya N. , Andriasov Kristian S. , Stepanova Svetlana A. , Gloriozov Igor P. , Grishin Yuri K. , Kuznetsova Tamara S. , Averina Elena B.
Published: December 2017

A series of polycyclic hydrocarbons containing cyclopropane moieties 1,2‐annelated or spiro‐condensed with a cyclooctane ring were investigated under oxidative conditions. Four oxidizing systems (O3 on SiO2, a dioxirane derived from trifluoroacetone, CrO3, and RuO4, generated in situ), were tested to evaluate and compare their reactivity and usefulness. RuO4 was found to be the best of them, considering its oxidative power together with the simple operating procedure. Conditions for the specific oxidation of polycyclic hydrocarbons were found. New cyclooctane derivatives containing cyclopropyl carbonyl moieties were obtained.
Pd‐Catalyzed P–C Cross‐Coupling of Aryl Bromides and Triflates with Hydroxymethylphosphine Sulfide Derivatives
Authors: Ohta Hidetoshi , Xue Qian , Hayashi Minoru
Published: December 2017

The development of a versatile process for phosphine synthesis has attracted considerable interest because organophosphines are indispensable for organic synthesis. Previously, we developed a Pd‐catalyzed P–C coupling reaction for hydroxymethylphosphine sulfide derivatives with various aryl iodides as a method for preparing a variety of triarylphosphine derivatives. However, the catalyst system for aryl iodides did not activate aryl bromides and triflates, which are more readily available than aryl iodides. Herein, we report a new and effective catalyst system for the P–C coupling of various aryl bromides and triflates with hydroxymethylphosphine sulfides. An application of the new method was demonstrated with the sequential synthesis of an unsymmetrically substituted triarylphosphine sulfide by using multiple couplings of an orthogonally protected precursor.
Base‐Promoted Sulfur‐Mediated Carbonylative Cyclization of Propargylic Amines
Authors: Ying Jun , Wang Hai , Qi Xinxin , Peng Jin‐Bao , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: December 2017

AtBuOK‐mediated carbonylative cyclization of propargylic amines with elemental sulfur has been developed. With benzene‐1,3,5‐triyl triformate (TFBen) as a convenient CO surrogate, various substituted 1,3‐thiazolidin‐2‐ones were produced in good to excellent yields.
Electrochemical Characterization and Electrocatalytic Application of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized with Different Stabilizing Agents
Authors: Sierra‐Rosales Paulina , Torres Rodrigo , Sepúlveda Carlos , Kogan Marcelo J. , Arturo Squella Juan
Published: December 2017

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have unique properties, making them attractive for electronic and energy‐conversion devices and as (electro)catalysts for electrochemical sensors. In addition to the size and shape of AuNPs, the electrocatalytic properties of AuNP‐sensors are also determined by the stabilizing agent used in their synthesis. Here, AuNPs were synthesized with citrate, alginate and quercetin, obtaining spherical and negatively charged nanoparticles. The AuNPs were used to modify glassy carbon electrodes (AuNPs/GCE), which were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical techniques. The AuNPs/GCE showed aggregates of different sizes and degrees of dispersion on the electrode surface depending on the stabilizing agent. The AuNP's aggregates affect the homogeneity of the film, the reproducibility of the electrodes and their response in buffer solution. Finally, to evaluate the electrocatalytic ability of the AuNPs/GCE, we studied the oxidation of two analytes with opposite charges: (1) sunset yellow (negative) and (2) hydrazine (positive). Compared with GCE, the AuNPs/GCE showed good electrocatalytic properties for hydrazine, increasing the current up to 50 % and shifting the potential by almost 400 mV, depending on the AuNP used. For the negatively charged analyte, the current decreased up to 50 % and no shift in potential was observed. Thus, the electrocatalytic properties of the AuNPs showed to be highly dependent on the nature of the analyte.
Dual Amplified Electrochemical Immunosensor for Hepatitis B Virus Surface Antigen Detection Using Hemin/G‐Quadruplex Immobilized onto Fe3O4‐AuNPs or (Hemin‐Amino‐rGO‐Au) Nanohybrid
Authors: Alizadeh Negar , Hallaj Rahman , Salimi Abdollah
Published: December 2017

A sensitive electrochemical immunosensor for Hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) detection was fabricated based on hemin/G‐quadruplex interlaced onto Fe3O4‐AuNPs or hemin ‐amino‐reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (H‐amino‐rGO‐Au). G‐quadruplex DNAzyme, which is composed of hemin and guanine‐rich nucleic acid, is an effective signal amplified tool for its outstanding peroxidase activity and Fe3O4‐AuNPs or (H‐amino‐rGO‐Au) nanocomposites with quasi‐enzyme activity provide appropriate support for the immobilization of hemin/G‐quadruplex. The target protein was sandwiched between the primary antibody immobilized on the GO and secondary antibody immobilized on the Fe3O4‐AuNPs or (H‐amino‐rGO‐Au) nanocomposites and glutaraldehyde was used as linking agent for the immobilization of primary antibody on the surface of GO. Both Fe3O4‐AuNPs and H‐amino‐rGO‐Au nanocomposite and also hemin/G‐quadruplex can cooperate the electrocatalytic reduction of H2O2 in the presence of methylene blue as mediator. The proposed immunosensor has a wide linear dynamic range of 0.1 pg/ml to 300 pg/ml with a detection limit of 60 fg/ml when Fe3O4‐AuNPs was used for immobilization of hemin/G‐quadruplex, while the dynamic range and DL were 0. 1–1000 pg/mL and 10 fg/mL, respectively in the presence of H‐amino‐rGO‐ Au nanocomposite as platform for immobilizing of hemin/G‐quadruplex. The proposed immunosensor was also used for analysis of HBsAg in spiked human serum samples with satisfactory results.
Biomolecular Release from Alginate‐modified Electrode Triggered by Chemical Inputs Processed through a Biocatalytic Cascade – Integration of Biomolecular Computing and Actuation
Authors: Okhokhonin Andrey V. , Domanskyi Sergii , Filipov Yaroslav , Gamella Maria , Kozitsina Alisa N. , Privman Vladimir , Katz Evgeny
Published: December 2017

Biocatalytic cascades involving more than one or two enzyme‐catalyzed step are inefficient inside alginate hydrogel prepared on an electrode surface. The problem originates from slow diffusion of intermediate products through the hydrogel from one enzyme to another. However, enzyme activity can be improved by surface immobilization. We demonstrate that a complex cascade of four consecutive biocatalytic reactions can be designed, with the enzymes immobilized in an LBL‐assembled polymeric layer at the alginate‐modified electrode surface. The product, hydrogen peroxide, then induces dissolution of iron‐cross‐linked alginate, which results in release process of entrapped biomolecular species, here fluorescently marked oligonucleotides, denoted F‐DNA. The enzymatic cascade can be viewed as a biocomputing network of concatenated AND gates, activated by combinations of four chemical input signals, which trigger the release of F‐DNA. The reactions, and diffusion/release processes were investigated by means of theoretical modeling. A bottleneck reaction step associated with one of the enzymes was observed. The developed system provides a model for biochemical actuation triggered by a biocomputing network of reactions.
1500 years of lake sedimentation due to fire, earthquakes, floods and land clearance in the Oregon Coast Range: geomorphic sensitivity to floods during timber harvest period
Authors: Richardson K.N.D. , Hatten J.A. , Wheatcroft R.A.
Published: December 2017

Sediment cores retrieved from landslide‐dammed Loon Lake recorded events back to the 5th century AD in a forested, mountainous catchment, thereby providing an opportunity to compare the impacts of known recent perturbations, including floods and timber harvesting with those of an early period in the cores, floods, fires, and earthquakes. High‐resolution multi‐parameter (grain size, %TC, %TN, and magnetic susceptibility) data allowed the core stratigraphy to be classified as background sedimentation and events. 137Cs and radiocarbon dating, as well as a varved record in the last 75 years provided age control. Mean mass accumulation rate from 1939 to 1978 AD, the time of peak timber harvest and a cool wet phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, was 0.79 (0.74–0.92, 95% C.L.) g cm‐2 y‐1, significantly higher than mean rates of both the more recent contemporary period (coincident with the passing of the legislation that regulated harvesting practices in the region), 1979–2012 AD, at 0.58 (0.48‐0.70) and the entire early period, 0.44 (0.41–0.46). Several event deposits are coeval with independently estimated ages of eight Cascadia subduction zone earthquakes in the early period, including the 1700 AD Mw 9.0 event. These deposits are predominantly formed by hyperpycnal flows, as are the known event deposits in the contemporary period. The high mass accumulation rate and greater frequency of thick event deposits during the early contemporary period point to the extraordinary role of timber harvesting in priming the landscape for subsequent sedimentary delivery during floods. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immer dem Licht nach!
Authors: Kugler Sabine , Deuerling Steffi , Van Opdenbosch Daniel , Zollfrank Cordt
Published: December 2017

Auf der Suche nach innovativen Wegen zur Materialsynthese führen Wissenschaftler verschiedenste Technologien und Ansätze zusammen – von Zucker produzierenden Einzellern über Bioschablonen bis zum 3‐D‐Druck. In ganz neuer Weise genutzt wird dabei die Sensitivität von Mikroorganismen wie Rotalgen oder Cyanobakterien.
Metasomatic alteration of volcanic‐sedimentary terrane in the Early Devonian: Implication for the formation of the Mengxi porphyry copper deposit, eastern Junggar, Central Asian Orogenic Belt
Authors: Zhang Haidong , Wang Dequan , Wang Ruimei , Liu Jianchao , Li Rongxi
Published: December 2017

The Mengxi porphyry copper deposit, situated in the eastern Junggar, Central Asian Orogenic Belt, is not a typical porphyry copper deposit, and the origin of the deposit has been a topical debate for a decade. The ore bodies of the Mengxi porphyry copper deposit mainly developed in the volcanic‐sedimentary terrane (Huangcaopo Group) near a granite porphyry, with strong wall‐rock alteration as well as vertical zonation and fracture‐related vein fillings. The result of zircon U–Pb dating indicates that the granite porphyry was emplaced at 432.6 ± 6.7 Ma. The granite porphyry has relatively low initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.70465–0.70537), high whole‐rock ƐNd(t) values (−2.2 to 6.6), and similar geochemical affinities of adakites and Andean island arc volcanic rocks, indicating that the Mengxi granite porphyry was derived from the partial melting of the upper mantle modified by slab‐derived fluids, with negligible assimilation of crust. Pyrites from the porphyry and volcanic‐sedimentary terrane have a similar δ34S and Pb isotopic compositions, indicating that different pyrites may have similar source. Based on the detailed field investigation, observed mineral assemblages, and crosscutting relationships, massive fine anhedral chalcopyrite and bornite disseminated in the Huangcaopo Formation, chalcopyrite as inclusion in pyrite veins in the contact zone, and the amount of Cu‐bearing minerals increased from terrane to veins have been recognized. All these observations reveal that the ore‐forming materials of the Mengxi copper deposit were mainly derived from the metasomatic alteration of the Huangcaopo Group triggered by the extensive Early Devonian tectonic‐magmatic events.
Sorting into payment schemes and medical treatment: A laboratory experiment
Authors: Brosig‐Koch Jeannette , Kairies‐Schwarz Nadja , Kokot Johanna
Published: December 2017

In this study, we introduce the opportunity for physicians to sort into capitation or fee‐for‐service payment. Using a controlled medically framed laboratory experiment with a sequential within‐subject design allows isolating sorting from incentive effects. We observe a strong preference for fee‐for‐service payment, which does not depend on subjects' prior experience with one of the two payment schemes. Further, we identify a significant sorting effect. Subjects choosing capitation deviate ex ante less from patient‐optimal medical treatment than subjects who sort into fee‐for‐service payment. Particularly the latter become even less patient‐oriented after introducing the choice option. Consequently, the opportunity to choose between fee‐for‐service and capitation payment worsens patient treatment, if at all. Our results hold for medical and for nonmedical students.
Centralisation of acute stroke services in London: Impact evaluation using two treatment groups
Authors: Friebel Rocco , Hauck Katharina , Aylin Paul
Published: December 2017

The bundling of clinical expertise in centralised treatment centres is considered an effective intervention to improve quality and efficiency of acute stroke care. In 2010, 8 London Trusts were converted into Hyper Acute Stroke Units. The intention was to discontinue acute stroke services in 22 London hospitals. However, in reality, provision of services declined only gradually, and 2 years later, 15% of all patients were still treated in Trusts without a Hyper Acute Stroke Unit. This study evaluates the impact of centralising London's stroke care on 7 process and outcome indicators using a difference‐in‐difference analysis with two treatment groups, Hyper Acute and discontinued London Trusts, and data on all stroke patients recorded in the hospital episode statistics database from April 2006 to April 2014. The policy resulted in improved thrombolysis treatment and lower rates of pneumonia in acute units. However, 6 indicators worsened in the Trusts that were meant to discontinue services, including deaths within 7 and 30 days, readmissions, brain scan rates, and thrombolysis treatment. The reasons for these results are difficult to uncover and could be related to differences in patient complexity, data recording, or quality of care. The findings highlight that actual implementation of centralisation policies needs careful monitoring and evaluation.
Yarning quiet ways: Aboriginal carers’ views on talking to youth about sexuality and relationships
Authors: Vujcich Daniel , Lyford Marilyn , Bellottie Chontarle , Bessarab Dawn , Thompson Sandra
Published: December 2017

Issue addressed

Research suggests that young Indigenous people want carers to take a more active role in discussions about sexual health. The aim of this study was to ascertain carers’ perspectives of: the importance of providing young people with information about sex and sexual health; what they want young people to know about sex and sexual health; and facilitators and barriers to discussing sex and sexual health with youth.

Methods

Thirteen focus groups and three interviews were conducted with 81 carers in four rural and urban regions of Western Australia. Data were coded using a thematic approach, analysed using inductive Framework Analysis, and interpreted using the Aboriginal Family Wellbeing Model of Empowerment.

Results

Many participants recognised the need for talking with young people about sex, and said they drew upon resources such as books, pamphlets and television and used humour to impart lessons. However, a large proportion of participants reported difficulties in educating youth about sex. Participants noted that colonisation had disrupted traditional structures for educating young people, and that sex was a challenging topic. The forced removal of children had interfered with Indigenous family structures and deprived some participants of the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills from their own parents.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasise the potential role of culture and empowerment in further improving outcomes related to relationships and sexual health. There is a need for more research into models of culturally‐empowering, family‐centred strategies for improving the sexual literacy of Indigenous youth.
The Ironbark program: Implementation and impact of a community‐based fall prevention pilot program for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Authors: Lukaszyk Caroline , Coombes Julieann , Sherrington Catherine , Tiedemann Anne , Keay Lisa , Mackean Tamara , Clemson Lindy , Cumming Robert , Broe Tony , Ivers Rebecca
Published: December 2017

Aim

To document the implementation and investigate within‐group impact of The Ironbark Program: a community‐based, Aboriginal‐specific fall prevention program, in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

The Ironbark Program was trialled in six Aboriginal communities over a three‐ to six‐month period. A mixed methods approach was used for program evaluation: strength, balance and gait were assessed to measure participant physical function and BMI was monitored. Semi‐structured participant interviews investigated program suitability, relevance and impact.

Results

Ninety‐eight Aboriginal people aged 40+ years registered for the pilot program, 77 (79%) of whom were present at all assessment time points. There were significant improvements in participant leg strength (average time to complete five repetition sit‐to‐stand: 14 seconds to 11 seconds), balance (timed single‐leg stance: 5.6 seconds to 7.8 seconds), gait (timed 4 m walk: 0.51 m/s to 0.94 m/s) and a significant decrease in BMI (32.0 to 31.6) was observed. Participants reported enjoying the program and stated they would recommend it to others.

Conclusion

The evaluation of the Ironbark Program demonstrated acceptability, and showed significant improvements in physical function. If proven to be effective in a definitive trial, this program could be used widely to prevent falls in older Aboriginal people.

Implications

Key features of the Ironbark Program were local Aboriginal management, culturally relevant resources, ongoing availability and enabling program use for people aged less than 65 years. These features should be retained on the program's upscale, and may be incorporated into other healthy ageing programs developed for the Aboriginal population.
The oral health behaviours and fluid consumption practices of young urban Aboriginal preschool children in south‐western Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: George Ajesh , Grace Rebekah , Elcombe Emma , Villarosa Amy R. , Mack Holly A. , Kemp Lynn , Ajwani Shilpi , Wright Darryl C. , Anderson Cheryl , Bucknall Natasha , Comino Elizabeth
Published: December 2017

Issue addressed

Australian Aboriginal children have a higher risk of dental caries yet there is limited focus on oral health risk factors for urban Aboriginal preschool children. This study examined the oral health behaviours and fluid consumption practices of young children from an urban Aboriginal community in south‐western Sydney, Australia.

Methods

In total, 157 Aboriginal children who were recruited to the “Gudaga” longitudinal birth cohort participated in this study. A survey design was employed and parents responded to the oral health questions when their child was between 18 and 60 months.

Results

Few parents (20%) were concerned about their child's oral health across the time period. By 60 months, only 20% of children had seen a dentist while 80% were brushing their teeth at least once daily. High levels of bottle use were seen up to 30 months. Consumption of sugary drinks was also very high in the early years, although this was replaced by water by 36 months.

Conclusions

While there are some encouraging findings, such as the rates of tooth brushing and increasing rates of water consumption, the findings do highlight the poor uptake of dental services and high levels of bottle usage among urban aboriginal children during their early years.

So what?

Targeted oral health promotional programs are needed in the urban Aboriginal community to better support parents understanding of good oral health practices in the early years and engagement with dental health services.
A profile of health, lifestyle and training habits of 4720 Australian recreational runners—The case for promoting running for health benefits
Authors: Kozlovskaia Maria , Vlahovich Nicole , Rathbone Evelyne , Manzanero Silvia , Keogh Justin , Hughes David C.
Published: December 2017

Issue addressed

The aim of this study was to characterise lifestyle and training habits of a large cohort of Australian recreational runners. Understanding the health benefits of recreational running and differentiating between the habits of males and females may allow for the development of gender‐specific messaging for promoting recreational running as a form of physical activity.

Methods

An online questionnaire was used to collect data from 4720 Australian recreational runners. Data on physical, lifestyle and training characteristics of male and female subgroups were compared using chi‐square tests. Multiple logistic regression method was used to assess the effect of running experience on the reported clinically significant weight loss.

Results

The study cohort was 54.1% female and 45.9% male. Smoking was uncommon among surveyed runners. The most typical weekly running distance in the cohort was 20‐40 km, usually distributed by 2‐5 running sessions. Significantly more males than females reported running over 40 km per week (29.9% vs 18.9%, P < .001) and running at least six sessions per week (11.5% vs 6.7%, P < .001). The majority (72.9%) of runners had normal BMI, and the cohort reported a lower overweight/obesity rate than the Australian population. The logistic regression model indicated that commencing running may lead to a clinically significant weight loss irrespectively of sex, participation in other sports and injury history.

Conclusion

Recreational running was associated with beneficial health outcomes. Commencement of running is associated with weight loss, and regular running supports healthy weight maintenance. Male and female runners had different running preferences which should be taken into account for physical activity promotion.

So what?

Captured health outcomes associated with running and described sex differences in training patterns may assist in development of physical activity promotion programmes involving recreational running, particularly targeting weight loss and healthy weight maintenance.
STRONG MILITARY FAMILIES INTERVENTION ENHANCES PARENTING REFLECTIVITY AND REPRESENTATIONS IN FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Authors: Julian M.M. , Muzik M. , Kees M. , Valenstein M. , Rosenblum K. L.
Published: December 2017

Military families face many challenges due to deployment and parental separation, and this can be especially difficult for families with young children. The Strong Military Families (SMF) intervention is for military families with young children, and consists of two versions: the Multifamily Group, and a Home‐based psychoeducational written materials program. The Multifamily Group was designed to enhance positive parenting through both educational components and in vivo feedback and support during separations and reunions between parents and children (n = 78 parents). In the present study, we examine parenting reflectivity and mental representations in mothers versus fathers in military families, service members versus civilian spouses/parenting partners, and before versus after participation in the SMF Multifamily Group and Home‐based interventions. Parenting reflectivity and mental representations were coded from the Working Model of the Child Interview (WMCI; C.H. Zeanah & D. Benoit, 1995). Results suggest that neither parenting reflectivity nor WMCI typology differs between mothers and fathers in military families, or between service members and civilian parenting partners. Furthermore, there was substantial stability in parenting reflectivity and WMCI typology from baseline to posttest, but participation in the Multifamily Group, relative to Home‐based, was associated with improvements in both parenting reflectivity and WMCI ratings from baseline to postintervention.
Knockdown of pseudogene derived from lncRNA DUXAP10 inhibits cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and promotes apoptosis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lian Yifan , Xiao Chuanxing , Yan Changsheng , Chen Dajun , Huang Qingwen , Fan Yanyun , Li Zhaohua , Xu Hongzhi
Published: December 2017

Current evidence suggests that pseudogene derived lncRNAs may be important players in human cancer progression. Our previous study showed that DUXAP10 could promote cell proliferation in colorectal cancer. However, the clinical significance and potential role of DUXAP10 in human pancreatic cancer (PC) has not been uncovered. In this study, we found that DUXAP10 was overexpressed in PC tissues compared with normal tissues. DUXAP10 expression was significantly higher in patients with an advanced TNM stage and positive lymph node metastasis. Bioinformatic analysis showed that cell cycle progression was increased in patients with high DUXAP10 expression. In vitro and in vivo assays of DUXAP10 alterations revealed a complex integrated phenotype affecting cell growth, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. Mechanistic studies revealed that DUXAP10 has a crucial role in G2/M arrest. We further showed that DUXAP10 regulated PC cell proliferation through interact with RNA‐binding protein EZH2 and LSD1. Overall, our findings indicates that DUXAP10 is an oncogenic lncRNA that promotes PC proliferation and metastasis.