bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Définition en discours de l’idéal-type eurorégional: consensus et zones d’ombre autour d’une politique expérimentale
Authors: Marie-Hélène Hermand
Published: March 2016

The article examines the discursive construction of emerging Euroregions in Europe. By analyzing the discourse produced by institutions, economic actors and media, we reconstruct the definition of the Euroregional project from various enunciative positions and irrespective of the languages or the geographical location of Euroregions. On one hand, the results show characteristic metaphors of the European political discourse (construction, experimentation, body) that introduce the imagination of a territorial continuum in Europe. On the other hand, the results show some gray areas (divisions, approximations, dispersions, competition) that make the definition of the Euroregional project blurred and difficult to understand for the European citizen. The analysis is based on a genuine multilingual corpus to detect regularities relative to the Euroregional discourse. It mobilizes simple but verifiable textometric results that serve as benchmarks for qualitative analysis.
Avant-propos. Énoncer l’Europe: discours, récits, idées
Authors: Marie-Christine Jullion  , Jean-Michel Guieu  , Maria Matilde Benzoni  , Paola Cattani
Published: March 2016

This paper is divided into two main sections that deal respectively with the most important linguistic and historical approaches to the political, cultural and institutional debates about Europe in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. This overview is followed by an analysis of the articles published in the current issue of LCM. The inherent polyphony of the debates on Europe, their dynamic relationships with European past, European integration processes and Anti-European attitudes have emerged from these essays as a common ground for research. The dialogue between the studies that deal with discourse analysis on the one hand and historical studies on the other can therefore foster an improved understanding of European issues.
Cultural Heritage in the Discourse of European Institutions
Authors: Maria Cristina Paganoni
Published: March 2016

“A common heritage” is a recurrent catchphrase in several conventions, declarations, guidelines and policy documents produced at the supranational European level by a number of institutional actors. The concept draws inspiration from UNESCO’s worldwide celebration of the “outstanding universal value” of great heritage sites, whose property is seen to transcend national boundaries and belong to all humankind. However, as contemporary Europe has many histories, the discursive construction of a common heritage, which implies the reinvention of the past for present political uses, is understandably at odds with the shared experience of European citizenship as multifarious, when not divisive. Against the background of the most significant institutional milestones in Europe’s identity-building narratives, the study moves on to investigate a selection of official documents and cultural programmes in which heritage is promoted as a tool for European integration. With the help of Critical Discourse Analysis and heritage studies, the aim is to retrace the conceivable developments of an instrumental concept that has become a strategic presence in the cultural policy of the European Union and is now identified as a key economic driver.
Elevation and persistence of CD8 T‐cells in HIV infection: the Achilles heel in the ART era
Authors: Cao Wei , Mehraj Vikram , Kaufmann Daniel E , Li Taisheng , Routy Jean‐Pierre
Published: March 2016

Introduction

HIV infection leads to a disturbed T‐cell homeostasis, featured by a depletion of CD4 T‐cells and a persistent elevation of CD8 T‐cells over disease progression. Most effort of managing HIV infection has been focused on CD4 T‐cell recovery, while changes in the CD8 compartment were relatively underappreciated in the past.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review of publications in English language was conducted using major electronic databases. Our search was focused on factors contributing to CD8 T‐cell dynamics in HIV infection and following antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Discussion

Normalization of CD8 counts is seldom observed even with optimal CD4 recovery following long‐term treatment. Initiation of ART in primary HIV infection leads to enhanced normalization of CD8 count compared with long‐term ART initiated in chronic infection. Importantly, such CD8 elevation in treated HIV infection is associated with an increased risk of inflammatory non‐AIDS‐related clinical events independent of CD4 T‐cell recovery. The mechanisms underlying CD8 persistence remain largely unknown, which may include bystander activation, exhaustion and immunosenescence of CD8 T‐cells. The information provided herein will lead to a better understanding of factors associated with CD8 persistence and contribute to the development of strategies aiming at CD8 normalization.

Conclusions

Persistence of CD8 T‐cell elevation in treated HIV‐infected patients is associated with an increased risk of non‐AIDS‐related events. Now that advances in ART have led to decreased AIDS‐related opportunistic diseases, more attention has been focused on reducing non‐AIDS events and normalizing persistent CD8 T‐cell elevation.
Trifunctional cross-linker for mapping protein-protein interaction networks and comparing protein conformational states
Authors: Tan Dan , Li Qiang , Zhang Mei-Jun , Liu Chao , Ma Chengying , Zhang Pan , Ding Yue-He , Fan Sheng-Bo , Tao Li , Yang Bing , Li Xiangke , Ma Shoucai , Liu Junjie , Feng Boya , Liu Xiaohui , Wang Hong-Wei , He Si-Min , Gao Ning , Ye Keqiong , Dong Meng-Qiu , Lei Xiaoguang
Published: March 2016

To improve chemical cross-linking of proteins coupled with mass spectrometry (CXMS), we developed a lysine-targeted enrichable cross-linker containing a biotin tag for affinity purification, a chemical cleavage site to separate cross-linked peptides away from biotin after enrichment, and a spacer arm that can be labeled with stable isotopes for quantitation. By locating the flexible proteins on the surface of 70S ribosome, we show that this trifunctional cross-linker is effective at attaining structural information not easily attainable by crystallography and electron microscopy. From a crude Rrp46 immunoprecipitate, it helped identify two direct binding partners of Rrp46 and 15 protein-protein interactions (PPIs) among the co-immunoprecipitated exosome subunits. Applying it to E. coli and C. elegans lysates, we identified 3130 and 893 inter-linked lysine pairs, representing 677 and 121 PPIs. Using a quantitative CXMS workflow we demonstrate that it can reveal changes in the reactivity of lysine residues due to protein-nucleic acid interaction.
Photoacoustic tomography with a high lateral resolution and a large field of view using a rectangular focused ultrasound transducer
Authors: Zhang Shangyu , Cheng Renxiang , Tao Chao , Liu Xiaojun
Published: March 2016

The enlargement of the field of view (FOV) of a photoacoustic (PA) tomography (PAT) system and the improvement of its lateral resolution are often two conflicting goals. A rectangular focused transducer is proposed to solve this problem. An asymmetric geometry of the transducer results in its asymmetric characteristics of the ultrasound (US) field. Both simulation and experiments confirm that the rectangular focused transducer can improve the FOV and lateral resolution of PAT systems simultaneously. The US transducer proposed in this study has the potential to improve the performance of a PAT system for practical biomedical applications.
Determination of the type of stacking faults in single-crystal high-purity diamond with a low dislocation density of <50 cm−2 by synchrotron X-ray topography
Authors: Masuya Satoshi , Hanada Kenji , Uematsu Takumi , Moribayashi Tomoya , Sumiya Hitoshi , Kasu Makoto
Published: March 2016

The properties of stacking faults in a single-crystal high-purity diamond with a very low dislocation density of <50 cm−2 and a very low impurity concentration of <0.1 ppm were investigated by synchrotron X-ray topography. We found stacking faults on the {111} plane and determined the fault vector f of the stacking faults to be

on the basis of the f · g extinction criteria. Furthermore, we have found that the partial dislocations are of the Shockley type on the basis of the b · g extinction criteria. Consequently, we concluded that the stacking faults are of the Shockley type and formed because of the decomposition of dislocations with

into dislocations with

and

.
Catalytic doping of phosphorus and boron atoms on hydrogenated amorphous silicon films
Authors: Seto Junichi , Ohdaira Keisuke , Matsumura Hideki
Published: March 2016

We investigate the low-temperature doping of phosphorus (P) and boron (B) atoms on hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) films by catalytic doping (Cat-doping). The conductivity of a-Si:H films increases as catalyzer temperature (T
cat) increases, and the increase in conductivity is accompanied by a significant reduction in activation energy obtained from the Arrhenius plot of the conductivity. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) measurement reveals that Cat-doped P and B atoms exist within ∼10–15 nm from the a-Si:H film surface, indicating that the shallow doping of P and B atoms is realized on a-Si:H films similarly to the case of Cat-doping on crystalline Si (c-Si) wafers. We also confirm no additional film deposition during Cat-doping. These results suggest that decomposed species are effectively doped on a-Si:H films similarly to the case of Cat-doping on c-Si.
Türkiye Selçuklu Tarihi Birinci Elden Kaynakları /
The History of Turkish Seljuk’s in Primary Resources
Authors: KEMALOĞLU Muhammet
Published: March 2016

Öz Tarih geçmişteki olaylara ait bilgilerin keşfi, toplanması, bir araya getirilmesi ve sunulması bilimidir. Geçmişteki olaylara ilişkin tüm bilgiler, olayların vuku bulduğu dönemin şartları göz önüne alınarak nesnel bir şekilde sunulmalıdır. Bu nedenle de tarih yazıcılığında birinci elden kaynaklar çok önemlidir. Geçmişe doğru gidildikçe karşılaştırılacak kaynak azlığı var olan eseri daha iyi tenkit etmeyi gerektirmektedir. Türkiye Selçukluları tarihi, kültür ve medeniyeti ile ilgili olarak bugüne kadar birçok araştırma ve çalışma yapılmış ve bu çalışmalarda çok kıymetli eserler ve vesikalar ortaya çıkarılarak yayınlanmıştır. Ancak yapılan bu çalışmalar Türkiye Selçukluları devrini yeterince aydınlatamamıştır. Bu çalışmada ise Türkiye Selçukluları devrine ait birinci elden kaynakları ve bu eserleri yazan müelliflerin önde gelenleri tanıtılarak dönemle ilgili çalışma yapacaklara yardımcı olmaktır. Abstract History is the science of discovery, collection, gathering and presentation of the information belonging to past events. All of the information related to past events should be presented objectively by taking the conditions of the period in which the events have occurred into consideration. Therefore, primary sources are very important in historiography. The scarcity of the resources towards to the past needs the present work to be criticized better. Many studies related to the history, culture and civilization of Turkish Seljuks have been done and considerably valuable works and documents have been revealed and published. However, these studies were not able to enlighten the period of Turkish Seljuks sufficiently. In this study, by introducing the primary sources and their authors, it is aimed to help the ones who will study this period.
 Cebrayil-Büyük Mercanlı Sosyal Hayatından Örnekler: Azerbaycan-Karabağ Bölgesi  /
Examples of Social Life from Gabriel Province, Large Mardzhanly: Azerbaijan-Karapapakh Region
Authors: KEMALOĞLU MUHAMMET
Published: March 2016

Öz

Cebrayil (Cəbrayıl Rayonu), Azerbaycan'daki merkezi şehirlerinden biridir. 1993'ten bu yana Ermenistan Silahlı Kuvvetleri'nin işgali altındadır. Cebrayil’de ki sayısız abidelerin, mağaraların, kalelerin, ziyaret yerlerinin ve mezarlık kalıntıları varlığı Cebrayil’in geçmişinin ne kadar eski olduğunu göstermeye yetmektedir. Bu eskilik Azerbaycan Türklüğünün varlığının ispatı olup Türk kültürünün devamlılığının da göstergesidir. Bu devamlılıkta Cebrayil’de yoğun olarak yaşayan Terekeme ve Karapapah Türkleri dediğimiz Türk boyu etkisi oldukça fazladır. Cebrayil ili ve özellikle Büyük Mercanlı çevresinde meydana gelen sosyal ve kültürel olayların birçoğunda Terekeme ve Karapapah Türkleri kendi karakteristik özelliklerini yansıtmışlardır. Bu çalışmamızda ise Terekeme ve Karapapah Türklerinin Büyük Mercanlı bölgesindeki sosyal hayatlarından örnekler verilecektir.

Abstract

Gabriel (Cəbrayıl Rayon) is one of the central cities in Azerbaijan. It has been occupied by Armenian Army forces since 1993. The existence of numerous monuments, caves, castles, visiting places and cemetery ruins is enough to indicate how old its past is. This oldness is the proof of Azerbaijan’s Turks and the continuity of the Turkish culture. In this continuity, the effect of Turkish clan that we call Terekeme and Karapapakh Turks living intensively in Gabriel is great. Terekeme and Karapapah Turks have reflected their own characteristics in many of the social and cultural events happening around Gabriel province, especially around Large Mardzhanly. In this study, examples from social lives of Terekeme and Karapapakh Turks in Large Mardzhanly are going to be given.
Postmodern Dönemde Kimliğin Belirleyicisi Olarak Tüketim [Tüketilmiş Kimlikler] /
The Consumption as a Determination of Identity in The Postmodern Era [Consumed Identities]
Authors: Yavuz Nihal , Zavalsız Yusuf Sinan
Published: March 2016

The Consumption as a Determination of Identity in The Postmodern Era

[Consumed Identities]

Abstract

Technological developments which are increasing due to the production and product diversity have started to tempt people to consume rather than meeting their daily requirements. In this period, wherein hedonist approach became popular, people have created new life styles and producible – even reproducible – identities through consumption.

The relationship between identity and consumption is one of the topics that need to be dealt with in recent years. This research will try to explain the effect of consumption habits on the formation of multiple and fragmented identities in the postmodern period.

Consumption, which has started to direct human behaviors, has become now an identity indicator. As consumption is becoming influential on the formation of individuals’ identities, it is observed that symbolic values stand out in consumption habits. Identities have been exposed to consumption in today’s world where everything is being consumed fast.

 

Postmodern Dönemde Kimliğin Belirleyicisi Olarak Tüketim

 [Tüketilmiş Kimlikler]

Öz

Teknolojik gelişmeye bağlı olarak artan üretim ve ürün çeşitliliği, insanların günlük ihtiyaçlarını karşılamanın ötesinde onları tüketime yönlendirmeye başlamıştır. Tüketimde hedonist anlayışın ön plana çıktığı bu dönemde insanlar, tüketim vasıtasıyla yeni yaşam tarzları ve üretilebilir hatta yeniden üretilebilir kimlikler oluşturmuştur.

Günümüz postmodern toplumunda kimlik ve tüketim ilişkisi, üzerinde durulması gereken bir konudur. Bu araştırma, postmodern dönemdeki çoğul ve parçalanmış kimliklerin oluşumunda tüketim alışkanlıklarının etkisini açıklamaya çalışmaktadır.

İnsan davranışlarına yön vermeye başlayan tüketim, artık bir kimlik göstergesi biçimini almıştır. Tüketim, bireylerin kimlik oluşumunda etkili olurken, tüketim alışkanlıklarında sembolik değerlerin ön plana çıktığı görülmektedir. Her şeyin hızla tüketildiği günümüz dünyasında artık kimlikler de tüketilir hale gelmiştir. 
The pretreatment albumin to globulin ratio predicts survival in patients with natural killer/T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Bi Xi-wen , Wang Liang , Zhang Wen-wen , Yan Shu-mei , Sun Peng , Xia Yi , Li Zhi-ming , Jiang Wen-qi
Published: March 2016

Background.The pretreatment albumin to globulin ratio (AGR) has been reported to be a predictor of survival in several types of cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic impact of AGR in patients with natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (NKTCL).

Methods.We retrospectively reviewed the available serum biochemistry results for 331 NKTCL patients before treatment. AGR was calculated as albumin/(total protein—albumin), and a cut-off value of 1.3 was used to define AGR as low or high. Survival analysis was used to assess the prognostic value of AGR.

Results.A low AGR (<1.3) was associated with significantly more adverse clinical features, including old age, poor performance status, advanced stage, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, B symptoms, and high International Prognostic Index (IPI) and natural killer/T-cell lymphoma prognostic index (NKPI) scores. Patients with a low AGR had a significantly lower 5-year overall survival (44.5 vs. 65.2%,P< 0.001) and progression-free survival (33.1 vs. 57.4%,P< 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, a low AGR remained an independent predictor of poorer survival. Additionally, AGR distinguished patients with different outcomes in the IPI low-risk group and in the NKPI high-risk group.

Discussion.Pretreatment AGR may serve as a simple and effective predictor of prognosis in patients with NKTCL.
Attacking the supply wagons to starve cancer cells to death
Authors: Selwan Elizabeth M. , Finicle Brendan T. , Kim Seong M. , Edinger Aimee L.
Published: March 2016

The constitutive anabolism of cancer cells not only supports proliferation but also addicts tumor cells to a steady influx of exogenous nutrients. Limiting access to metabolic substrates could be an effective and selective means to block cancer growth. In this review, we define the pathways by which cancer cells acquire the raw materials for anabolism, highlight the actionable proteins in each pathway, and discuss the status of therapeutic interventions that disrupt nutrient acquisition. Critical open questions to be answered before apical metabolic inhibitors can be successfully and safely deployed in the clinic are also outlined. In summary, recent studies provide strong support that substrate limitation is a powerful therapeutic strategy to effectively, and safely, starve cancer cells to death.
Microbial pathogenesis revealed by intravital microscopy: pros, cons and cautions
Authors: Stolp Bettina , Melican Keira
Published: March 2016

Intravital multiphoton imaging allows visualization of infections and pathogenic mechanisms within intact organs in their physiological context. Today, most organs of mice and rats are applicable to in vivo or ex vivo imaging, opening completely new avenues for many researchers. Advances in fluorescent labeling of pathogens and infected cells, as well as improved small animal models for human pathogens, led to the increased application of in vivo imaging in infectious diseases research in recent years. Here, we review the latest literature on intravital or ex vivo imaging of viral and bacterial infections and critically discuss requirements, benefits and drawbacks of applied animal models, labeling strategies, and imaged organs.
Risk assessment of the extreme interplanetary shock of 23 July 2012 on low‐latitude power networks
Authors: Zhang J. J. , Wang C. , Sun T. R. , Liu Y. D.
Published: March 2016

Geomagnetic sudden commencements (SCs), characterized by a rapid enhancement in the rate of change of the geomagnetic field perturbation (dB/dt), are considered to be an important source of large geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) in middle‐ and low‐latitude power grids. In this study, the extreme interplanetary shock of 23 July 2012 is simulated under the assumption that it had hit the Earth with the result indicating the shock‐caused SC would be 123 nT. Based on statistics, the occurrence frequency of SCs with amplitudes larger than the simulated one is estimated to be approximately 0.2% during the past 147 years on the Earth. During this extreme event, the simulation indicates that dB/dt, which is usually used as a proxy for GICs, at a dayside low‐latitude substation would exceed 100 nT/min; this is very large for low‐latitude regions. We then assess the GIC threat level based on the simulated geomagnetic perturbations by using the method proposed by Marshall et al. (2011). The results indicate that the risk remains at “low” level for the low‐latitude power network on a global perspective. However, the GIC risk may reach “moderate” or even “high” levels for some equatorial power networks due to the influence of the equatorial electrojet. Results of this study feature substantial implications for risk management, planning, and design of low‐latitude electric power networks.
Immunodeficiency Disorders Due to Antibody Deficiency (
B
‐Lymphocyte Disorders)
Authors: Roberts Robert L
Published: March 2016

The majority of patients with primary immunodeficiency have a defect in their ability to make sufficient quantities of specific antibodies. This lack of specific antibodies is due to the lack of B lymphocytes, defects in B‐lymphocyte function or inability of B lymphocytes to interact with T lymphocytes. Patients born with only antibody deficiency usually appear normal at birth owing to maternal antibodies that crossed the placenta. They usually start developing more infections at around 6 months of age when maternal antibodies have been depleted, and they cannot make their own antibodies. Treatment may include prophylactic antibodies until diagnosis is confirmed or infusion of immunoglobulin, either by intravenous route or subcutaneously. When patients have antibody deficiency plus defects in T lymphocytes, the disease is usually more severe and will be further discussed in other articles.

Key Concepts

The most severe form of antibody deficiency, Bruton's, requires regular infusions of intravenous immunoglobulin starting in infancy.

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is often associated with autoimmune disease as well as malignancies.

Less severe forms of B‐cell deficiency may be managed with prophylactic antibiotics.

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) requires stem cell transplantation for treatment.

Early diagnosis is essential in preventing long‐term disability or early death.
Abscisic Acid (
ABA
)
Authors: Cutler Adrian J
Published: March 2016

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a phytohormone that mediates responses to abiotic stress conditions and controls stomatal aperture. It is also involved in seed development and is associated with seed dormancy. ABA is biosynthesised in higher plants from carotenoid precursors and early steps take place in the chloroplast. ABA binds to PYRABACTIN RESISTANCE (PYR)/PYR1‐like (PYL) receptor proteins that are localised in the cytosol and nucleus. The ABA–receptor complex binds to and inhibits specific PP2C protein phosphatases. Inhibition of these PP2Cs results in activation of SnRK2 protein kinases that in turn activate downstream signalling proteins resulting in both short‐term changes in ion‐channel activity and long‐term effects on gene expression. ABA effects depend on influx and efflux carriers that facilitate movement between cells and through conductive tissue to coordinate responses in shoots and roots.

Key Concepts

ABA reduces water use and causes adaptive responses to water stress.

One of the most important effects of ABA is to reduce stomatal aperture.

ABA acts by binding to PYR/PYL/RCAR receptors located in the cytoplasm and nucleus.

ABA causes rapid changes in ion‐channel activity and longer term changes in transcription factor activity leading to changes in gene expression.

Movement of ABA between cells and tissues is regulated by influx and efflux carriers on cell surfaces.

ABA is synthesised from carotenoid precursors and early steps in the pathway occur in the chloroplast.
Population Genetics of the
A
shkenazim
Authors: Gladstein Ariella , Hammer Michael F
Published: March 2016

The Ashkenazim are a well‐studied population with a dynamic and unique history. The spread of Jewish populations from the Middle East to locations in the Diaspora in the past 2000 years represents a microcosm of the evolutionary processes affecting modern humans as they dispersed out of Africa (e.g. founder effects, migrations, admixture and adaptation). Ashkenazim – Jews who trace their ancestry to founders who moved to the Rhine Valley in the fourth century – are no exception. Recent studies both support and refute long‐standing hypotheses of Ashkenazi origins. Together, the results Strengthen the inferences that Ashkenazi Jews trace their ancestry to a genetically diverse population in the Middle East that underwent a series of founder events – reducing genetic diversity relative to the ancestral population – and that subsequently experienced significant gene flow during the period of Ashkenazi residency in Europe.

Key Concepts

Ashkenazi Jews are genetically more similar to each other than to individuals from other populations.

Ashkenazi Jews are most closely related to other Jewish populations.

The Ashkenazim likely arose from a genetically diverse population in the Middle East.

Ashkenazi Jews appear equally close to both Middle Eastern and European populations.

Ashkenazi Jews are not closely related to modern populations that best represent the Khazars.

Ashkenazi Jews likely received 30–60% gene flow from Europeans.

Ashkenazi Jews likely underwent multiple extreme events of population size reduction and expansion.

About half of the genomic regions under putative selection in the Ashkenazim are not found to be under selection in Europeans.

Most Ashkenazi disease loci are not under strong positive selection.
Human Metapneumovirus – Clinical Virology
Authors: Keighley Caitlin L , Kok Jen , Nissen Michael D , Dwyer Dominic E
Published: March 2016

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an increasingly recognised cause of respiratory tract infections, particularly in children, the elderly, those with preexisting pulmonary diseases and immunocompromised hosts. The increasing availability of nucleic acid testing has revolutionised our understanding of the pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical and laboratory aspects of hMPV infection. Although hMPV‐specific antiviral therapy and vaccines are currently unavailable, it is anticipated that this will change in the near future.

Key Concepts

hMPV is a leading cause of acute respiratory tract infections.

Infection with hMPV generally occurs in the first 2 years of life, and exposure to hMPV is near universal by the age of 5.

hMPV infection is characterised by respiratory tract infection with wheeze.

hMPV is associated with admission for exacerbations of obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart.

Patients with haematological malignancies have a high mortality with hMPV.

Diagnosis should be confirmed with NAT on nasopharyngeal specimens.
Oxidative Stress and Redox Signalling in Plants
Authors: Hancock John T
Published: March 2016

Cell signalling is a critically important aspect of biology, being the mechanism by which organisms, tissues and cells coordinate their activity and survive environmental change and stress. Numerous biomolecules are involved but small reactive compounds known as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are key players in this intricate network of signalling. Such compounds are inherently toxic, with increased ROS leading to a condition known as oxidative stress. However, in plants, numerous physiological responses are modulated by the presence of ROS, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and RNS, such as nitric oxide (NO), including root growth, stomatal closure and cell death. Proteins such as kinases, phosphatases and metabolic enzymes are able to be controlled by the presence of H2O2and NO. Often, thiol groups on proteins are the target for modulation, but the presence and interactions with other redox compounds such as glutathione also need to be considered.

Key Concepts

Stress responses in plants often lead to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) such as nitric oxide (NO).

Cells maintain an internal environment which is very reducing, and if this is disrupted, for example by the addition of oxidising compounds, the result is known as oxidative stress.

The presence of ROS is a main way to enhance oxidative stress conditions.

ROS such as H2O2, as well as NO, are made in plants by dedicated enzymes, and there are mechanisms for the removal of these biomolecules too, such as through the action of antioxidants.

Many physiological functions use ROS and RNS as part of their control mechanisms, including germination, root development, stomatal closure and programmed cell death.

ROS and RNS are both known to modulate levels of gene expression, such that some genes are expressed to a higher extent, while expression for others is reduced.

ROS and RNS can modulate the activity of proteins such as MAP kinases, phosphatases and metabolic enzymes.

The covalent modification of thiol groups in proteins is a key way for ROS and RNS to partake in cell signalling, to alter protein function.

Dedicated redox proteins such as thioredoxin are instrumental in the control of redox signalling in cells.

Cell signalling involving ROS and RNS should not be considered in isolation, but the impact of other compounds such as glutathione and hydrogen sulfide also needs to be considered.
Genetics of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Barber Thomas M , Stephen Franks
Published: March 2016

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects reproductive‐aged women, manifesting reproductive and hyperandrogenic features and associated cardio‐metabolic risk factors that include increased risk for development of type 2 diabetes. Twin‐based studies have confirmed a heritability of ∼70% for PCOS, with likely oligogenic predisposition, its clinical and biochemical abnormalities often highlighted by weight gain. Much current literature on PCOS genetics is based on a candidate gene approach, with controversial and conflicting results from reporting of almost universally under‐powered studies. In recent years, this approach has been superseded by the Genome‐Wide Association Study (GWAS) with its advantage of encompassing the entire genome without any need fora prioriunderstanding of pathophysiology. Reported GWAS in PCOS from both Chinese and European ancestry have revealed novel insight that implicate genetic variants influencing secretion and action of gonadotrophins in susceptibility for development of this condition. Epigenetic factors probably also play an important role in the heritability of PCOS.

Key Concepts

PCOS is an oligogenic condition with a heritability of ∼70%.

PCOS is characterised by reproductive and hyperandrogenic features.

Genetics studies in PCOS are limited by the heterogeneity of the condition, the inherent reduced fertility and difficulty with accurate retrospective diagnosis in postmenopausal women.

Existing candidate gene studies implicate variants withinFTO(through effects on fat mass) and variants that influence steroidogenesis (such as 5α‐reductase activity) in possible susceptibility for development of PCOS.

Genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) on Chinese and European populations have identified loci that implicate gonadotrophin secretion (includingFSHB) in susceptibility for development of PCOS.

Loci identified from GWAS in PCOS only account for a small proportion of the overall heritability of PCOS. Rarer, yet to be identified, genetic variants with large effects may yet play a part but it is also likely that other factors, such as epigenetics, may contribute to the remainder of this known heritability.
Literacy
Authors: Hobbs Renee
Published: March 2016

Literacy is a complex constellation of cognitive, social, and affective competencies that involve the use of symbol systems for expressing and sharing knowledge and ideas, information and experiences. The concept of literacy has changed over 3,000 years, from its original formulation rooted in oral rhetoric and persuasion to a focus on the ability to read written and typeset print, and gradually moving to include the ability to write in a variety of forms, including the use of visual, electronic, and digital symbol systems. Today literacy is fundamentally deeply linked to the institution of formal education at all levels. Although literacy is generally associated with modernity and technological progress, literacy practices can only be understood by examining particular cultural contexts and situations. Literacy education can be used to maintain the power of elites or help support social equality, and literacy practices must be interrogated to determine how they embody power relationships.
Surface Structure Modification of ZnO and the Impact on Electronic Properties
Authors: Hewlett Robert M. , McLachlan Martyn A.
Published: March 2016

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a widely utilized, versatile material implemented in a diverse range of technological applications, particularly in optoelectronic devices, where its inherent transparency, tunable electronic properties, and accessible nanostructures can be combined to confer superior device properties. ZnO is a complex material with a rich and intricate defect chemistry, and its properties can be extremely sensitive to processing methods and conditions; consequently, surface modification of ZnO using both inorganic and organic species has been explored to control and regulate its surface properties, particularly at heterointerfaces in electronic devices. Here, the properties of ZnO are described in detail, particularly its surface chemistry, along with the role of defects in governing its electronic properties, and methods employed to modulate the behavior of as‐grown ZnO. An outline is also given on how the native and modified oxide interact with molecular materials. To illustrate the diverse range of surface modification methods and their subsequent influence on electronic properties, a comprehensive review of the modification of ZnO surfaces at molecular interfaces in hybrid photovoltaic (hPV) and organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices is presented. This is a case study rather than a progress report, aiming to highlight the progress made toward controlling and altering the surface properties of ZnO, and to bring attention to the ways in which this may be achieved by using various interfacial modifiers (IMs).
What Happens When the Terminal Aromatization is Blocked? Construction of 1,2‐Dihydroquinoline Derivatives by sp3 CH Bond Oxidation of N‐Arylalaninates
Authors: Lü Shiwei , Zhu Yingzu , Ma Xingge , Jia Xiaodong
Published: March 2016

Using an aromatization‐blocked strategy, the 1,2‐dihydroquinoline skeleton was efficiently constructed by sp3 CH bond oxidation of N‐arylalaninates under catalytic radical cation salt‐promoted conditions. Investigation of the reaction scope shows broad generality and good functional group tolerance. This method provides a new way to synthesize 1,2‐dihydroquinoline derivatives from easily accessible starting materials.

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An Aerobic Alternative to Oxidative Ozonolysis of Styrenes
Authors: Urgoitia Garazi , SanMartin Raul , Herrero María Teresa , Domínguez Esther
Published: March 2016

A general, selective and extremely efficient procedure for the aerobic cleavage of aromatic alkenes is presented. TON values in the range 6,000,000–10,000,000 are obtained for this nickel‐catalyzed reaction performed in polyethylene glycol 400 under 1 atm of molecular oxygen. Mono‐, di‐, tri‐ and tetrasubstituted styrene derivatives are oxidatively cleaved by this reproducible protocol, also suitable for larger scale (1.5 g) reactions. The presence of several functional groups (alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl) is tolerated in the substrates. The mechanistic proposal to explain the selective generation of carboxylic acids and ketones from aromatic alkenes involves the participation of the polyol solvent in the presented oxidative process.

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Iron(III) Chloride and Diorganyl Diselenide‐Promoted Nucleophilic Closures of 1‐Benzyl‐2‐alkynylbenzenes in the Preparation of 9‐(Organoselanyl)‐5H‐benzo[7]annulenes
Authors: Prochnow Thais , Back Davi F. , Zeni Gilson
Published: March 2016

Iron‐promoted cyclization of 1‐benzyl‐2‐alkynylbenzenes with diorganyl diselenides led to the synthesis of 9‐(organoselanyl)‐5H‐benzo[7]annulenes whereby the mutual action between diorganyl diselenides and iron(III) chloride in a 0.5:1.0 mol ratio was essential in order to achieve the maximal yields of the products. The cyclization reaction tolerated a variety of functional groups, such as trifluoromethyl, chloro, fluoro and methoxy, in both the 1‐benzyl‐2‐alkynylbenzenes and the diorganyl diselenides, giving the seven‐membered heterocyclic products exclusively via a 7‐endo‐dig cyclization process.

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Property‐Guided Synthesis of Aza‐Tricyclic Indolines: Development of Gold Catalysis En Route
Authors: Barbour Patrick M. , Wang Wei , Chang Le , Pickard Kasey L. , Rais Rana , Slusher Barbara S. , Wang Xiang
Published: March 2016

Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health threat that needs to be addressed by improved antibiotic stewardship and continuing development of new chemical entities to treat resistant bacterial infections. Compounds that work alongside known antibiotics as combination therapies offer an efficient and sustainable approach to counteract antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Guided by property‐based analysis, a series of aza‐tricyclic indolines (ATIs) were synthesized to optimize their physiochemical properties as novel combination therapies with β‐lactams to treat methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections. A novel and highly efficient gold‐catalyzed tandem cyclization was developed to facilitate the synthesis of these ATIs. One guanidine‐containing ATI was discovered to possess both improved anti‐MRSA activity and lower mammalian toxicity both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, it also showed significantly enhanced aqueous solubility and metabolic stability. These results indicated that the ATIs are a novel class of anti‐MRSA agents suitable for further evaluations as adjuvant therapy in animal model studies.

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Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed [3+2] Cyclodimerization of 3‐Alkyl‐ 2‐vinylindoles Leading to the Diastereoselective Construction of a Pyrroloindole Framework
Authors: Yin Lei , Wang Yang , Sun Meng , Shi Feng
Published: March 2016

A Brønsted acid‐catalyzed [3+2] cyclodimerization of 3‐alkyl‐2‐vinylindoles has been established, which led to the diastereoselective construction of pyrroloindole frameworks in high yields (up to 98% yield, all >95:5 dr). This reaction not only represents the first application of 3‐alkyl‐2‐vinylindoles as nitrogen‐carbon‐carbon (NCC) building blocks, but also reveals a new [3+2] cyclodimerization of 2‐vinylindoles. Control experiments demonstrated that both the free NH group and the C‐3 alkyl group in the indole moiety play a crucial role in performing the [3+2] cyclodimerization. A preliminary attempt also demonstrated the feasibility of performing heterodimerization.

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A Fluorescent Sensor for Dual‐Channel Discrimination between Phosgene and a Nerve‐Gas Mimic
Authors: Zhou Xin , Zeng Yiying , Liyan Chen , Wu Xue , Yoon Juyoung
Published: March 2016

The ability to analyze highly toxic chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and related chemicals in a rapid and precise manner is essential in order to alleviate serious threats to humankind and public security caused by unexpected terrorist attacks and industrial accidents. In this investigation, we designed a o‐phenylenediamine‐pyronin linked dye that is capable of both fluorogenic and colorimetric discrimination between phosgene and the prototypical nerve‐agent mimic, diethyl chlorophosphate (DCP) in the solution or gas phase. Moreover, this dye has been used to construct a portable kit that can be employed for real‐time monitoring of DCP and phosgene in the field, both in a discriminatory manner, and in a simple and safe way.
Multifunctional Coating Improves Cell Adhesion on Titanium by using Cooperatively Acting Peptides
Authors: Pagel Mareen , Hassert Rayk , John Torsten , Braun Klaus , Wießler Manfred , Abel Bernd , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: March 2016

Promotion of cell adhesion on biomaterials is crucial for the long‐term success of a titanium implant. Herein a novel concept is highlighted combining very stable and affine titanium surface adhesive properties with specific cell binding moieties in one molecule. A peptide containing l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine was synthesized and affinity to titanium was investigated. Modification with a cyclic RGD peptide and a heparin binding peptide (HBP) was realized by an efficient on‐resin combination of Diels–Alder reaction with inverse electron demand and CuI catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition. The peptide was fluorescently labeled by thiol Michael addition. Conjugating the cyclic RGD and HBP in one peptide gave improved spreading, proliferation, viability, and the formation of well‐developed actin cytoskeleton and focal contacts of osteoblast‐like cells.
Relations between language and cognition in native‐signing children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Shield Aaron , Pyers Jennie , Martin Amber , Tager‐Flusberg Helen
Published: March 2016

Two populations have been found to exhibit delays in theory of mind (ToM): deaf children of hearing parents and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Deaf children exposed to sign from birth by their deaf parents, however, show no such delay, suggesting that early language exposure is key to ToM development. Sign languages also present frequent opportunities with visual perspective‐taking (VPT), leading to the question of whether sign exposure could benefit children with ASD. We present the first study of children with ASD exposed to sign from birth by their deaf parents. Seventeen native‐signing children with a confirmed ASD diagnosis and a chronological‐ and mental age‐matched control group of 18 typically developing (TD) native‐signing deaf children were tested on American Sign Language (ASL) comprehension, two minimally verbal social cognition tasks (ToM and VPT), and one spatial cognition task (mental rotation). The TD children outperformed the children with ASD on ASL comprehension (p < 0.0001), ToM (p = 0.02), and VPT (p < 0.01), but not mental rotation (p = 0.12). Language strongly correlated with ToM (p < 0.01) and VPT (p < 0.001), but not mental rotation (p = ns). Native exposure to sign is thus insufficient to overcome the language and social impairments implicated in ASD. Contrary to the hypothesis that sign could provide a scaffold for ToM skills, we find that signing children with ASD are unable to access language so as to gain any potential benefit sign might confer. Our results support a strong link between the development of social cognition and language, regardless of modality, for TD and ASD children. Autism Res 2016, 9: 1304–1315. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Engineering islet for improved performance by optimized reaggregation in alginate gel beads
Authors: Li Na , Sun Guangwei , Wang Shujun , Wang Yu , Xiu Zhilong , Sun Dongsheng , Guo Xin , Zhang Ying , Ma Xiaojun
Published: March 2016

After islet isolation, diffusion has become the main mechanism to transport oxygen and nutrients into the core of islets. However, diffusion has limitations, by which nutrients cannot effectively reach the core of large islets and can eventually cause core cell death and islet loss. This problem can be resolved by dispersing islets into single islet cells, but single islet cells do not exhibit insulin release function in in vitro culture. In this study, we intended to establish a new islet engineering approach by forming islet cell clusters to improve islet survival and function. Therefore, alginate gels were used to encapsulate islet cells to form artificial islets after dispersion of islets into single cells. The shape of the islet cell clusters was similar to native islets, and the size of the islet cell clusters was limited to a maximum diameter of 100 μm. By limiting the diameter of this engineered islet cell cluster, cell viability was nearly 100%, a significant improvement over natural islets. Importantly, islet cell clusters express the genes of islets, including Isl‐1, Gcg, and insulin‐1, and insulin secretion ability was maintained in vitro.
Polylactic acid nanosheets in prevention of postoperative intestinal adhesion and their effects on bacterial propagation in an experimental model
Authors: Hinoki A , Saito A , Kinoshita M , Yamamoto J , Saitoh D , Takeoka S
Published: March 2016

Background

Ultrathin films (nanosheets) adhere tightly to organ surfaces but prevent adhesion to other organs. The antiadhesive effect of nanosheets and their effect on bacterial propagation were investigated in a murine intestinal adhesion model.

Methods

Polylactic acid nanosheets (approximately 80 nm thick) were produced. Serosal defects were created by peeling off the intestinal serosa; these were left open or covered with nanosheets or Seprafilm® and the formation of intestinal adhesions was analysed. To examine bacterial propagation, a nanosheet or Seprafilm® was placed on intact murine jejunum followed by Escherichia coli inoculation at the site.

Results

Treatment both with nanosheets and with Seprafilm® reduced postoperative intestinal adhesion (mean adhesion score 0·67 for nanosheets, 0·43 for Seprafilm® and 2·87 for no antiadhesive treatment; P < 0·001 for nanosheets or Seprafilm® versus no adhesive treatment). Nanosheet treatment did not affect bacterial propagation in the peritoneal cavity, whereas Seprafilm®-treated mice showed bacterial propagation, leading to increased mortality.

Conclusion

Nanosheets may be effective novel antiadhesive agents even in the presence of bacterial contamination. Surgical relevanceIntra-abdominal adhesions following surgical contamination can trigger postoperative complications and lead to deterioration in long-term quality of life. However, currently there are no effective antiadhesion materials to prevent the formation of adhesions.Treatment with ultrathin nanosheets effectively reduced postoperative intestinal adhesion in an experimental mouse model, and did not affect bacterial propagation in the peritoneal cavity.These nanosheets are potent novel antiadhesive materials that potentially can be applied even in contaminated conditions.