bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-WOM Adoption and Sharing Behavior in Social Network Sites: The Impact of Engagement in SNSs
Authors: Imlawi Jehad
Published: May 2017

Social network sites (SNSs) is becoming a credible source of online information. Despite the increasing use of social networks in message persuasion literature, there is still a need for investigating the role it can play in users’ adoption of online information and its impact on users' sharing behavioral intention of this online information. This research utilizes the peripheral route in elaboration likelihood model to investigate the impact of source credibility on engagement in SNSs and on e-WOM adoption, the impact of engagement in SNSs and recommendation rating on e-WOM adoption, and the impact of e-WOM adoption on sharing behavioral intention.The findings suggest that factors, that are not directly related to the online message content, like source credibility, recommendation rating, and online users' engagement in SNSs groups, positively impact online information adoption by SNSs users, and their sharing behavioral intention of this online information. The study is finally concluded by suggesting the theoretical implications, and by providing strategies for firms to adjust their online activities in order to succeed in improving their customers’ engagement, and their customers' adopting of these firms' products and services’ information.
Dovitinib enhances temozolomide efficacy in glioblastoma cells
Authors: Thanasupawat Thatchawan , Natarajan Suchitra , Rommel Amy , Glogowska Aleksandra , Bergen Hugo , Krcek Jerry , Pitz Marshall , Beiko Jason , Krawitz Sherry , Verma Inder M. , Ghavami Saeid , Klonisch Thomas , Hombach‐Klonisch Sabine
Published: May 2017

The multikinase inhibitor and FDA‐approved drug dovitinib (Dov) crosses the blood–brain barrier and was recently used as single drug application in clinical trials for GB patients with recurrent disease. The Dov‐mediated molecular mechanisms in GB cells are unknown. We used GB patient cells and cell lines to show that Dov downregulated the stem cell protein Lin28 and its target high‐mobility group protein A2 (HMGA2). The Dov‐induced reduction in pSTAT3Tyr705 phosphorylation demonstrated that Dov negatively affects the STAT3/LIN28/Let‐7/HMGA2 regulatory axis in GB cells. Consistent with the known function of LIN28 and HMGA2 in GB self‐renewal, Dov reduced GB tumor sphere formation. Dov treatment also caused the downregulation of key base excision repair factors and O6‐methylguanine‐DNA‐methyltransferase (MGMT), which are known to have important roles in the repair of temozolomide (TMZ)‐induced alkylating DNA damage. Combined Dov/TMZ treatment enhanced TMZ‐induced DNA damage as quantified by nuclear γH2AX foci and comet assays, and increased GB cell apoptosis. Pretreatment of GB cells with Dov (‘Dov priming’) prior to TMZ treatment reduced GB cell viability independent of p53 status. Sequential treatment involving ‘Dov priming’ and alternating treatment cycles with TMZ and Dov substantially reduced long‐term GB cell survival in MGMT+ patient GB cells. Our results may have immediate clinical implications to improve TMZ response in patients with LIN28+/HMGA2+ GB, independent of their MGMT methylation status.
Optimization of river network representation data models for web‐based systems
Authors: Demir Ibrahim , Szczepanek Robert
Published: May 2017

Web‐based systems allow users to filter data and resources using river network structure on interactive map environments that use server side processing. With the increasing resolution of river networks, optimized methods for storage of river network representation in databases and efficient queries on the river network structure become critical. This paper presents a detailed study of widely used methods for representing generic networks in relational databases and benchmarking common queries on river network data using these methods. The analysis has been applied to a data set consisting of the river network of Iowa, with over 620,000 individual subwatersheds/nodes in the network. For typical river network queries (path to the outlet; contributing watersheds), two of considered data models (Adjacency List and Nested Set) guarantee response times below 1 s. This will allow users to carry out large‐scale analysis and visualizations tasks on the web for hydrological data sets. A new data model, Stream Network, is proposed based on Path Enumeration, stores directly additional hydrological information, enabling, for example, retrieval of the main stream.
Simulation of block‐and‐ash flows and ash‐cloud surges of the 2010 eruption of Merapi volcano with a two‐layer model
Authors: Kelfoun Karim , Gueugneau Valentin , Komorowski Jean‐Christophe , Aisyah Nurnaning , Cholik Noer , Merciecca Charley
Published: May 2017

A new depth‐averaged model has been developed for the simulation of both concentrated and dilute pyroclastic currents and their interactions. The capability of the model to reproduce a real event is tested for the first time with two well‐studied eruptive phases of the 2010 eruption of Merapi volcano (Indonesia). We show that the model is able to reproduce quite accurately the dynamics of the currents and the characteristics of the deposits: thickness, extent, volume, and trajectory. The model needs to be tested on other well‐studied eruptions and the equations could be refined, but this new approach is a promising tool for the understanding of pyroclastic currents and for a better prediction of volcanic hazards.
Optimization of a novel large field of view distortion phantom for MR‐only treatment planning
Authors: Price Ryan G. , Knight Robert A. , Hwang Ken‐Pin , Bayram Ersin , Nejad‐Davarani Siamak P. , Glide‐Hurst Carri K.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

MR‐only treatment planning requires images of high geometric fidelity, particularly for large fields of view (FOV). However, the availability of large FOV distortion phantoms with analysis software is currently limited. This work sought to optimize a modular distortion phantom to accommodate multiple bore configurations and implement distortion characterization in a widely implementable solution.

Method and Materials

To determine candidate materials, 1.0 T MR and CT images were acquired of twelve urethane foam samples of various densities and strengths. Samples were precision‐machined to accommodate 6 mm diameter paintballs used as landmarks. Final material candidates were selected by balancing strength, machinability, weight, and cost. Bore sizes and minimum aperture width resulting from couch position were tabulated from the literature (14 systems, 5 vendors). Bore geometry and couch position were simulated using MATLAB to generate machine‐specific models to optimize the phantom build. Previously developed software for distortion characterization was modified for several magnet geometries (1.0 T, 1.5 T, 3.0 T), compared against previously published 1.0 T results, and integrated into the 3D Slicer application platform.

Results

All foam samples provided sufficient MR image contrast with paintball landmarks. Urethane foam (compressive strength ∼1000 psi, density ~20 lb/ft3) was selected for its accurate machinability and weight characteristics. For smaller bores, a phantom version with the following parameters was used: 15 foam plates, 55 × 55 × 37.5 cm3 (L×W×H), 5,082 landmarks, and weight ~30 kg. To accommodate > 70 cm wide bores, an extended build used 20 plates spanning 55 × 55 × 50 cm3 with 7,497 landmarks and weight ~44 kg. Distortion characterization software was implemented as an external module into 3D Slicer's plugin framework and results agreed with the literature.

Conclusion

The design and implementation of a modular, extendable distortion phantom was optimized for several bore configurations. The phantom and analysis software will be available for multi‐institutional collaborations and cross‐validation trials to support MR‐only planning.
In Situ Probing of Ion Ordering at an Electrified Ionic Liquid/Au Interface
Authors: Sitaputra Wattaka , Stacchiola Dario , Wishart James F. , Wang Feng , Sadowski Jerzy T.
Published: May 2017

Charge transport at the interface of electrodes and ionic liquids is critical for the use of the latter as electrolytes. A room‐temperature ionic liquid, 1‐ethyl‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (EMMIM TFSI), is investigated in situ under applied bias voltage with a novel method using low‐energy electron and photoemission electron microscopy. Changes in photoelectron yield as a function of bias applied to electrodes provide a direct measure of the dynamics of ion reconfiguration and electrostatic responses of the EMMIM TFSI. Long‐range and correlated ionic reconfigurations that occur near the electrodes are found to be a function of temperature and thickness, which, in turn, relate to ionic mobility and different configurations for out‐of‐plane ordering near the electrode interfaces, with a critical transition in ion mobility for films thicker than three monolayers.
Respiratory morbidity among U.S. coal miners in states outside of central Appalachia
Authors: Reynolds Laura E. , Blackley David J. , Laney Anthony S. , Halldin Cara N.
Published: May 2017

Background

Recent NIOSH publications have focused on the respiratory health of coal miners in central Appalachia, yet 57% of U.S. coal miners work in other regions. We characterized respiratory morbidity in coal miners from these regions.

Methods

Active coal miners working outside of central Appalachia who received chest radiographs and/or spirometry during 2005‐2015 were included. Chest radiographs were classified according to International Labour Office standards and spirometry was interpreted using the American Thoracic Society guidelines. Prevalence of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) and abnormal spirometry were compared by region.

Results

A total of 103 (2.1%) miners had CWP. The eastern region had the highest prevalence (3.4%), followed by the western (1.7%), and interior (0.8%) regions. A total of 524 (9.3%) miners had abnormal spirometry.

Conclusions

CWP occurs in all U.S. coal mining regions. Prevalence of CWP was higher in the eastern region, but lower than levels reported in central Appalachia.
An Asymmetric Total Synthesis of Tupichilignan A using Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropanes: A Structural Revision of Tupichilignan A
Authors: Kimura Yumi , Sone Yoshitomo , Saito Taichi , Mochizuki Takehito , Nishii Yoshinori
Published: May 2017

An asymmetric total synthesis of tupichilignan A was achieved using enantioenriched donor–acceptor (D–A) cyclopropanes. The key steps include an asymmetric cyclopropanation using the Hayashi–Jørgensen catalyst, an oxy‐homo‐Michael reaction of a bicyclic D–A cyclopropane, an α‐benzylation of a γ‐lactone, a decarboxylation furnishing a trans‐α,β‐dibenzyl‐γ‐lactone, a configurational inversion of a hydroxy chiral center via oxidation, and a final reduction, all of which occur with high stereoselectivity. The spectral data of the diastereomer previously identified in the literature as tupichilignan A were found to be inconsistent with the reported data for the natural product. On the basis of the spectral data of both of the synthesized diastereomers, the structure of tupichilignan A was revised, and the absolute configuration of the 7 position of tupichilignan A was changed from R to S.
Frequency‐Swept Integrated Solid Effect
Authors: Can Thach V. , Weber Ralph T. , Walish Joseph J. , Swager Timothy M. , Griffin Robert G.
Published: May 2017

The efficiency of continuous wave dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) experiments decreases at the high magnetic fields used in contemporary high‐resolution NMR applications. To recover the expected signal enhancements from DNP, we explored time domain experiments such as NOVEL which matches the electron Rabi frequency to the nuclear Larmor frequency to mediate polarization transfer. However, satisfying this matching condition at high frequencies is technically demanding. As an alternative we report here frequency‐swept integrated solid effect (FS‐ISE) experiments that allow low power sweeps of the exciting microwave frequencies to constructively integrate the negative and positive polarizations of the solid effect, thereby producing a polarization efficiency comparable to (±10 % difference) NOVEL. Finally, the microwave frequency modulation results in field profiles that exhibit new features that we coin the “stretched” solid effect.
Natural Abundance 17O DNP NMR Provides Precise O−H Distances and Insights into the Brønsted Acidity of Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Perras Frédéric A. , Wang Zhuoran , Naik Pranjali , Slowing Igor I. , Pruski Marek
Published: May 2017

Heterogeneous Brønsted acid catalysts are tremendously important in industry, particularly in catalytic cracking processes. Here we show that these Brønsted acid sites can be directly observed at natural abundance by 17O DNP surface‐enhanced NMR spectroscopy (SENS). We additionally show that the O−H bond length in these catalysts can be measured with sub‐picometer precision, to enable a direct structural gauge of the lability of protons in a given material, which is correlated with the pH of the zero point of charge of the material. Experiments performed on materials impregnated with pyridine also allow for the direct detection of intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions through the lengthening of O−H bonds.
Ferrocene‐ and Biferrocene‐Containing Macrocycles towards Single‐Molecule Electronics
Authors: Wilson Lucy E. , Hassenrück Christopher , Winter Rainer F. , White Andrew J. P. , Albrecht Tim , Long Nicholas J.
Published: May 2017

Cyclic multiredox centered systems are currently of great interest, with new compounds being reported and developments made in understanding their behavior. Efficient, elegant, and high‐yielding (for macrocyclic species) synthetic routes to two novel alkynyl‐conjugated multiple ferrocene‐ and biferrocene‐containing cyclic compounds are presented. The electronic interactions between the individual ferrocene units have been investigated through electrochemistry, spectroelectrochemistry, density functional theory (DFT), and crystallography to understand the effect of cyclization on the electronic properties and structure.
Lanthanide Complexes that Respond to Changes in Cyanide Concentration in Water
Authors: Routledge Jack D. , Zhang Xuejian , Connolly Michael , Tropiano Manuel , Blackburn Octavia A. , Kenwright Alan M. , Beer Paul D. , Aldridge Simon , Faulkner Stephen
Published: May 2017

Cyanide ions are shown to interact with lanthanide complexes of phenacylDO3A derivatives in aqueous solution, giving rise to changes in the luminescence and NMR spectra. These changes are the consequence of cyanohydrin formation, which is favored by the coordination of the phenacyl carbonyl group to the lanthanide center. These complexes display minimal affinity for fluoride and can detect cyanide at concentrations less than 1 μm. By contrast, lanthanide complexes with DOTAM derivatives display no affinity for cyanide in water, but respond to changes in fluoride concentration.
Preparation of Ultrathin Two‐Dimensional TixTa1−xSyOz Nanosheets as Highly Efficient Photothermal Agents
Authors: Tan Chaoliang , Zhao Lingzhi , Yu Peng , Huang Ying , Chen Bo , Lai Zhuangchai , Qi Xiaoying , Goh Min Hao , Zhang Xiao , Han Shikui , Wu Xue‐Jun , Liu Zheng , Zhao Yanli , Zhang Hua
Published: May 2017

Although two‐dimensional (2D) metal oxide/sulfide hybrid nanostructures have been synthesized, the facile preparation of ultrathin 2D nanosheets in high yield still remains a challenge. Herein, we report the first high‐yield preparation of solution‐processed ultrathin 2D metal oxide/sulfide hybrid nanosheets, that is, TixTa1−xSyOz (x=0.71, 0.49, and 0.30), from TixTa1−xS2 precursors. The nanosheet exhibits strong absorbance in the near‐infrared region, giving a large extinction coefficient of 54.1 L g−1 cm−1 at 808 nm, and a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 39.2 %. After modification with lipoic acid‐conjugated polyethylene glycol, the nanosheet is a suitable photothermal agent for treatment of cancer cells under 808 nm laser irradiation. This work provides a facile and general method for the preparation of 2D metal oxide/sulfide hybrid nanosheets.
Analysis of the plant composition of manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) faeces in a lake in south‐eastern Mexico
Authors: Ponce‐García Gloria , Olivera‐Gómez León D. , Solano Eloy
Published: May 2017

The Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) is a species at risk of extinction. Its diet in freshwater environments has been scarcely studied in Mexico, despite its significance for managing populations and habitat.

The diet of Antillean manatees inhabiting the Natural Protected Area of Laguna de las Ilusiones, in Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico, was studied during the rainy season.

A microhistological analysis was conducted on 51 manatee faecal samples. The cuticle and epidermis of 35 plant species present in vegetation patches used as foraging grounds by the Antillean manatee were described.

In total, 223 plant fragments belonging to 11 families and 25 vascular plant taxa were identified. Echinochloa polystachya had the highest frequency (70.6%). Plant richness per faecal sample varied between one and eight plant species.

This manatee population feeds mainly on grass. The plant species found coincide with those reported in other studies on sirenian diets. However, 11 new plant species consumed by manatees were recorded. This is the most comprehensive study to date in river systems in Mexico on the botanical richness of manatee faeces. The information provided here can be applied to decision‐making on the conservation of the Antillean manatee and its critical habitat.
Binary mesovortex structure associated with southwest vortex
Authors: Zhou Kuo , Liu Haiwen , Zhao Liang , Zhu Yuxiang , Lin Yihua , Zhang Fuying , Fu Ning
Published: May 2017

Previous work has concluded that the southwest vortex (SWV) is a single mesoscale vortex. Applying the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Final Operational Global Analysis, the Interim European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Re‐Analysis, and the non‐hydrostatic mesoscale Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to a case study, we discovered a new type of SWV associated with another coexisting mesoscale warm and moist vortex. In the case study, meso‐β‐scale vortex‐A was generated at 1800 UTC 17 July, and dissipated around 0500 UTC 18 July 2013, with a lifespan of approximately 11 h. Vortex‐B occurred at 0600 UTC 17 July and moved out of the Sichuan Basin at 0800 UTC 18 July 2013, remaining over the basin for approximately 26 h. Stronger atmospheric upward motion and two mesoscale rainbelts associated with each of the vortices further demonstrate the binary mesoscale vortex structure related to the SWV using the WRF model. The quasi‐geostrophic balance of the two mesoscale cyclonic circulations is responsible for the generation and maintenance of the two closed mesoscale vortices.
Effect of TiO2nanoparticles on some photophysical characteristics of ketocyanine dyes
Authors: Thipperudrappa Javuku , Raghavendra U. P. , Basanagouda Mahantesha
Published: May 2017

The effect of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) on photophysical characteristics of 2,5‐di[(E)‐1‐(4‐dimethylaminophenyl) methylidine]‐1‐cyclopentanone (2,5‐DMAPMC) and 2,5‐di[(E)‐1‐(4‐diethylaminophenyl)methylidine]‐1‐cyclopentanone (2,5‐DEAPMC) ketocyanine dyes has been studied using absorption, steady‐state and time‐resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The magnitudes of association constants determined based on modified absorption spectrum of dyes due to the presence of TiO2NPs indicate the interaction of TiO2NPs with dye molecules. The quenching of fluorescence intensity of dyes by TiO2NPs is observed and it follows linear Stern‐Volmer (S‐V) equation. The magnitude of quenching rate parameter suggests the involvement of static quenching mechanism. The involvement of electron transfer process in reducing fluorescence intensity of dyes has been discussed. Also, varying influence of TiO2NPs on two dyes is explained based on the presence of different alkyl substituent in two dyes.
Metabolic engineering of cofactor flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) synthesis and regeneration in Escherichia coli for production of α‐keto acids
Authors: Hou Ying , Hossain Gazi S. , Li Jianghua , Shin Hyun‐Dong , Du Guocheng , Chen Jian , Liu Long
Published: May 2017

Cofactor flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) plays a vital role in many FAD‐dependent enzymatic reactions; therefore, how to efficiently accelerate FAD synthesis and regeneration is an important topic in biocatalysis and metabolic engineering. In this study, a system involving the synthesis pathway and regeneration of FAD was engineered in Escherichia coli to improve α‐keto acid production—from the corresponding l‐amino acids—catalyzed by FAD‐dependent l‐amino acid deaminase (l‐AAD). First, key genes, ribH, ribC, and ribF, were overexpressed and fine‐tuned for FAD synthesis. In the resulting E. coli strain PHCF7, strong overexpression of pma, ribC, and ribF and moderate overexpression of ribH yielded a 90% increase in phenylpyruvic acid (PPA) titer: 19.4 ± 1.1 g · L−1. Next, formate dehydrogenase (FDH) and NADH oxidase (NOX) were overexpressed to strengthen the regeneration rate of cofactors FADH2/FAD using FDH for FADH2/FAD regeneration and NOX for NAD+/NADH regeneration. The resulting E. coli strain PHCF7‐FDH‐NOX yielded the highest PPA production: 31.4 ± 1.1 g · L−1. Finally, this whole‐cell system was adapted to production of other α‐keto acids including α‐ketoglutaric acid, α‐ketoisocaproate, and keto‐γ‐methylthiobutyric acid to demonstrate the broad utility of strengthening of FAD synthesis and FADH2/FAD regeneration for production of α‐keto acids. Notably, the strategy reported herein may be generally applicable to other flavin‐dependent biocatalysis reactions and metabolic pathway optimizations. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1928–1936. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Associations between cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wang Yi‐Xuan , Zhao Jue , Li Da‐Ke , Peng Fang , Wang Ying , Yang Ke , Liu Zhen‐Yang , Liu Feng‐Tao , Wu Jian‐Jun , Wang Jian
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Numerous studies have been carried out to explore the potential association between neurologic deficits and variable clinical manifestations of Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of our study was to investigate the association between cognitive performance and motor dysfunction in Chinese patients with PD.

Methods

Data from 96 patients with PD were obtained from the Parkinson's disease patient cohort database of Huashan Hospital. All participants underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation to assess cognitive status, that included scoring on the Mini‐mental state examination (MMSE), followed by more detailed cognitive assessment on five main cognitive domains (verbal memory, nonverbal memory, visuospatial function, language and attention/executive function). Correlations between cognitive and motor scores were investigated after controlling for age, disease duration, education, and gender.

Results

We report a significant correlation between subdomains of cognitive impairment and motor dysfunction using analyses of the multiple linear regression. Notably, executive function and attention was significantly associated with bradykinesia and rigidity, while visuospatial function was associated with bradykinesia and tremor.

Conclusions

The association between motor dysfunction and cognitive decline in PD might highlight deficits represented by a shared neurochemical pathway.
Early versus late percutaneous revascularization in patients hospitalized with non ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: The atherosclerosis risk in communities surveillance study
Authors: Arora Sameer , Matsushita Kunihiro , Qamar Arman , Stacey R. Brandon , Caughey Melissa C.
Published: May 2017

Background

Current guidelines recommend early invasive intervention (<24 hr) for high risk patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). A delayed invasive strategy (24–72 hr) is considered reasonable for low risk patients. The real‐world effectiveness of this strategy is unknown.

Methods

The ARIC Study has conducted hospital surveillance of acute myocardial infarction (MI) since 1987. NSTEMI was classified using a validated algorithm. We limited our study to patients undergoing early (<24 hr of the event onset), or late (≥24 hr) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients were stratified into low (TIMI score 2–4), and high risk (TIMI score 5–7, or presence of cardiogenic shock, ventricular fibrillation, or cardiac arrest). Associations between early versus late PCI and mortality were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression adjusted for demographics, hospitalization year, TIMI score, and comorbidities.

Results

From 1987 to 2012, 6,746 patients were hospitalized with NSTEMI and underwent PCI. Most were white (79%), male (68%), with mean age 61 years. The 28‐day and 1‐year mortality were 2% and 5%, respectively. Most revascularizations (65%) were late. After accounting for potential confounders, early PCI was associated with a 58% reduced 28‐day mortality (OR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.21–0.84) for the entire population, and 57% reduced mortality (OR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.21–0.88) for high risk patients. By 1‐year of follow up, there was no significant difference in mortality with respect to early vs. late PCI.

Conclusion

In hospitalized NSTEMI patients with high risk of clinical events, early PCI is associated with improved 28‐day survival.
A chromosomal microdeletion of 15q in a female patient with epilepsy, ID, and autism spectrum disorder: a case report
Authors: Ahram Dina F. , Al‐Sarraj Yasser , Taha Rowaida Z. , Elhag Saba F. , Al‐Shaban Fouad A. , El‐Shanti Hatem , Kambouris Marios
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

15q deletions have been described in association with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Previous reports have supported the role of 15q24 low copy repeats (LCRs) in mediating alternatively sized genomic rearrangements. Based on our reported finding of a 15q24 deletion coinciding with two LCR regions in a patient with epilepsy and ASD, we recommend that patients with 15q24 deletions be evaluated for ASD for early institution of therapy.
Semiconducting Coordination Polymers Based on the Predesigned Ternary Te‐Fe‐Cu Carbonyl Cluster and Conjugation‐Interrupted Dipyridyl Linkers
Authors: Shieh Minghuey , Yu Chia‐Chi , Miu Chia‐Yeh , Kung Chang‐Hung , Huang Chung‐Yi , Liu Yu‐Hsin , Liu Hsiang‐Lin , Shen Chih‐Chiang
Published: May 2017

A series of semiconducting cluster‐incorporated Cu‐based coordination polymers, namely, 1D zigzag polymers [{TeFe3(CO)9Cu2}(L)]n (L=1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethane (bpea), 1; L=1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene (bpee), 5), 2D honeycomb‐like polymers [{TeFe3(CO)9Cu}Cu(L)2.5]n (L=bpea, 2; L=bpee, 6), and 2D wave‐like cation–anion polymer [{Cu2(L)4}({TeFe3(CO)9Cu}2(L))]n (L=1,3‐bis(4‐pyridyl)propane (bpp), 4), as well as the macrocycle [{TeFe3(CO)9Cu2}2(bpp)2] (3) have been quantitatively synthesized via the liquid‐assisted grinding from the pre‐designed cluster [TeFe3(CO)9Cu2(MeCN)2] with conjugated or conjugation‐interrupted dipyridyl linkers. Notably, the most conjugation‐interrupted bpp‐bridged polymer 4 exhibited extraordinary semiconducting characteristics with an ultra‐narrow bandgap of 1.43 eV and a DC conductivity of 1.5×10−2 Ω−1 cm−1, which violates our knowledge, mainly attributed to the through‐space electron transport via non‐classical C−H⋅⋅⋅O(carbonyl) hydrogen bonds and aromatic C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions. The incorporated Te‐Fe‐CO anions can not only provide numerous possibilities for secondary interactions within these Cu‐based polymers but also serve as a redox‐active coordination ligand to promote their conductivities. The intriguing structure–property relationships were studied by X‐ray and DFT analyses and further demonstrated by significant change in the oxidation state of Cu atoms by XPS and Cu K‐edge XANES.
Natural and Synthetic Flavonoids as Potent Mycobacterium tuberculosis UGM Inhibitors
Authors: Villaume Sydney A. , Fu Jian , N'Go Inès , Liang Hui , Lou Huayong , Kremer Laurent , Pan Weidong , Vincent Stéphane P.
Published: May 2017

This study reports a novel class of inhibitors of uridine 5′‐diphosphate (UDP) galactopyranose mutase (UGM) derived from a screening of natural products. This enzyme is an essential biocatalyst involved in the cell wall biosynthesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Flavonoids are potent inhibitors of UGM. The synthesis of novel methylated flavonoids allowed a structure–activity relationship analysis to be performed and which functional groups and structural elements were required for UGM inhibition could be determined. The binding mode of one of the best inhibitors was found to be noncompetitive. Docking simulations indicated that this molecule was likely to bind UGM in its open conformation, in a cavity recently identified as a “druggable” pocket. Importantly, two of the best inhibitors of the M. tuberculosis UGM displayed moderate activity against whole M. tuberculosis cells. This study reports the first natural products that act as inhibitor of UGM. Given the importance of natural products in medicinal chemistry, these results create new opportunities for the discovery of new antitubercular agents.
Functionalization of P4 through Direct P−C Bond Formation
Authors: Borger Jaap E. , Ehlers Andreas W. , Slootweg J. Chris , Lammertsma Koop
Published: May 2017

Research on chlorine‐free conversions of P4 into organophosphorus compounds (OPCs) has a long track record, but methods that allow desirable, direct P−C bond formations have only recently emerged. These include the use of metal organyls, carbenes, carboradicals, and photochemical approaches. The versatile product scope enables the preparation of both industrially relevant organophosphorus compounds, as well as a broad range of intriguing new compound classes. Herein we provide a concise overview of recent breakthroughs and outline the acquired fundamental insights to aid future developments.
5‐Formylcytosine and 5‐Carboxylcytosine Significantly Reduce the Catalytic Activity of Hhal DNA Methyltransferase
Authors: Hong Tingting , Wu Fan , Fu Boshi , Yuan Yushu , Xu Jinglei , Wang Tianlu , Zhou Xiang
Published: May 2017

DNA methylation is an essential epigenetic modification, and found to be dynamically changed due to the observation of active DNA demethylation. During active demethylation, 5‐methylcytosine (5mC) was oxidized stepwise by ten‐eleven translocation (TET) enzymes into 5‐hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmc), 5‐formylcytosine (5fC), and 5‐carboxylcytosine (5caC). Then, the subsequent excision of 5fC and 5caC combined with base excision repair further restored cytosine, which completes the demethylation process. Here, we report that 5‐formylcytosine and 5‐carboxylcytosine significantly reduce the activity of HhaI DNA methyltransferase to methylate target cytosines when present on the hemi‐modified sequence of the complementary DNA. This finding demonstrates that 5fC and 5caC function as more than intermediates for active DNA demethylation.
Toward engineering design of quantum circuits
Authors: Csurgay Árpád I. , Juhász Imre Benedek , Civalleri Pier Paolo
Published: May 2017

A new engineering discipline called ‘quantum technology’ is emerging. Nanotechnology and cryotechnology enable engineers to develop devices and integrated circuits in which quantum phenomena have dominant sway. Macroscopic finite‐state ‘artificial atoms’ are realized exploiting superconductive Josephson effect, and these ‘atoms’ exchange microwave photons in superconductive microwave circuits. The achievements of cavity quantum electrodynamics in quantum optics are mimicked in the microwave frequency range. The new technology is dubbed circuit quantum electrodynamics. This paper tries to call the attention of engineers majoring in circuit theory and design on the challenges they face in designing quantum circuits. Modeling and simulation of quantum circuit components are reviewed. Approximate closed quantum system models as well as more accurate open system models are introduced in the case of single quantum devices and composite quantum systems. The effects of amplitude damping and phase damping are illustrated by simulation. The role of classical resistors in quantum circuits is investigated. Special attention is given to the almost standardized technology developed for superconductive microwave quantum circuits. Open problems are identified that circuit designers face in developing computer‐aided‐design tools for quantum circuits. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of landscape characteristics for forage maturation and nutritional benefits of migration in red deer
Authors: Mysterud Atle , Vike Brit Karen , Meisingset Erling L. , Rivrud Inger Maren
Published: May 2017

Large herbivores gain nutritional benefits from following the sequential flush of newly emergent, high‐quality forage along environmental gradients in the landscape, termed green wave surfing. Which landscape characteristics underlie the environmental gradient causing the green wave and to what extent landscape characteristics alone explain individual variation in nutritional benefits remain unresolved questions. Here, we combine GPS data from 346 red deer (Cervus elaphus) from four partially migratory populations in Norway with the satellite‐derived normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), an index of plant phenology. We quantify whether migratory deer had access to higher quality forage than resident deer, how landscape characteristics within summer home ranges affected nutritional benefits, and whether differences in landscape characteristics could explain differences in nutritional gain between migratory and resident deer. We found that migratory red deer gained access to higher quality forage than resident deer but that this difference persisted even after controlling for landscape characteristics within the summer home ranges. There was a positive effect of elevation on access to high‐quality forage, but only for migratory deer. We discuss how the landscape an ungulate inhabits may determine its responses to plant phenology and also highlight how individual behavior may influence nutritional gain beyond the effect of landscape.
Application of monolithic chromatographic supports in virus research
Authors: Krajacic Mladen , Ravnikar Maja , Štrancar Aleš , Gutiérrez‐Aguirre Ion
Published: May 2017

Key properties of monolithic chromatographic supports, make them suitable for separation and/or concentration of large biomolecules, especially virus particles and viral genomes. One by one, the studies that have been completed so far, contributed to the knowledge that monolith chromatography has hardly any limitation to be applied in virus research. Viruses of different sizes, possessing icosahedral structure and symmetrical morphology, as well as rod‐shaped or filamentous viruses with helical structure, even enveloped ones, all of them could be successfully managed by means of monolith chromatography. Same is true for viral genomes, primarily when being distinct from other nucleic acid forms present in a host cell. This review is exclusively focused on viruses. It describes the application of monolith chromatography to different problematics within the virus research field. The reviewed achievements offer new possibilities and trigger new aspects in virology.
CAT‐2003: A novel sterol regulatory element‐binding protein inhibitor that reduces steatohepatitis, plasma lipids, and atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E*3‐Leiden mice
Authors: Zimmer Michael , Bista Pradeep , Benson Ericka L. , Lee Diana Y. , Liu Feng , Picarella Dominic , Vega Rick B. , Vu Chi B. , Yeager Maisy , Ding Min , Liang Guosheng , Horton Jay D. , Kleemann Robert , Kooistra Teake , Morrison Martine C. , Wielinga Peter Y. , Milne Jill C. , Jirousek Michael R. , Nichols Andrew J.
Published: May 2017

CAT‐2003 is a novel conjugate of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and niacin designed to be hydrolyzed by fatty acid amide hydrolase to release EPA inside cells at the endoplasmic reticulum. In cultured liver cells, CAT‐2003 blocked the maturation of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein (SREBP)‐1 and SREBP‐2 proteins and decreased the expression of multiple SREBP target genes, including HMGCR and PCSK9. Consistent with proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) reduction, both low‐density lipoprotein receptor protein at the cell surface and low‐density lipoprotein particle uptake were increased. In apolipoprotein E*3‐Leiden mice fed a cholesterol‐containing western diet, CAT‐2003 decreased hepatic inflammation and steatosis as evidenced by fewer inflammatory cell aggregates in histopathologic sections, decreased nuclear factor kappa B activity in liver lysates, reduced inflammatory gene expression, reduced intrahepatic cholesteryl ester and triglyceride levels, and decreased liver mass. Plasma PCSK9 was reduced and hepatic low‐density lipoprotein receptor protein expression was increased; plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels were lowered. Aortic root segments showed reduction of several atherosclerotic markers, including lesion size, number, and severity. CAT‐2003, when dosed in combination with atorvastatin, further lowered plasma cholesterol levels and decreased hepatic expression of SREBP target genes. Conclusion: SREBP inhibition is a promising new strategy for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with abnormal lipid metabolism, such as atherosclerosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:311–325)
Brain structural connectivity and context‐dependent extinction memory
Authors: Hermann Andrea , Stark Rudolf , Blecker Carlo R. , Milad Mohammed R. , Merz Christian J.
Published: May 2017

Background

Extinction of conditioned fear represents an important mechanism in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Return of fear after successful extinction or exposure therapy in patients with anxiety disorders might be linked to poor temporal or contextual generalization of extinction due to individual differences in brain structural connectivity. The goal of this magnetic resonance imaging study was therefore to investigate the association of context‐dependent extinction recall with brain structural connectivity. Methods: Diffusion‐tensor imaging was used to determine the fractional anisotropy as a measure of white matter structural integrity of fiber tracts connecting central brain regions of the fear and extinction circuit (uncinate fasciculus, cingulum). Forty‐five healthy men participated in a two‐day fear conditioning experiment with fear acquisition in context A and extinction learning in context B on the first day. Extinction recall in the extinction context as well as renewal in the acquisition context and a novel context C took place one day later. Results: Renewal of conditioned fear (skin conductance responses) in the acquisition context was associated with higher structural integrity of the hippocampal part of the cingulum. Conclusions: Enhanced structural integrity of the cingulum might be related to stronger hippocampal modulation of the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, a region important for modulating conditioned fear output by excitatory projections to the amygdala. This finding underpins the crucial role of individual differences in the structural integrity of relevant fiber tracts for context‐dependent extinction recall and return of fear after exposure therapy in anxiety disorders.
Student Veterans in Higher Education: A Conversation Six Decades in the Making
Authors: Hammond Shane
Published: May 2017

This chapter provides a historical overview of the relationship between the military and higher education.
Blockade of hedgehog pathway is required for the protective effects of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate against ethanol‐induced hepatocyte steatosis and apoptosis
Authors: Lu Chunfeng , Xu Wenxuan , Shao Jiangjuan , Zhang Feng , Chen Anping , Zheng Shizhong
Published: May 2017

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), characterized by excessive deposition of lipids in hepatocytes, causes heavy health burden personally and socially. Mechanistically, hedgehog signaling was activated during the development of ALD, and exerted compelling role in regulating lipometabolism. The current promising intervention strategy is inhibition of lipid accumulation and apoptosis in hepatocytes. Magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate (MgIG) has been widely used in various liver diseases for its good hepatoprotective activities. However, the role of MgIG in ALD has not been elucidated. Therefore, this study was aimed to explore the role of MgIG and further identify the potential mechanisms. We found for the first time that MgIG reduced lipid accumulation, including triglyceride, and total cholesterol, probably via inducing peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐alpha and inhibiting sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c. Further, MgIG alleviated ethanol‐induced oxidative stress, evidenced by reduced abundance of reactive oxygen species and increased levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and mitochondrial transmembrane potential. Besides, MgIG protected hepatocytes from ethanol‐induced apoptosis. In addition, MgIG dose‐dependently suppressed hedgehog signaling. Of note was that disruption of hedgehog signaling could mimic the effects of MgIG, whereas activation of hedgehog signaling abrogated the effects of MgIG. These findings suggested that MgIG prevented ethanol‐induced hepatocyte steatosis and apoptosis via a hedgehog signaling inhibition‐dependent mechanism. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(7):540–552, 2017
Stroke in Women: Risk Factors and Clinical Biomarkers
Authors: Mirzaei Hamed
Published: May 2017

Stroke has been emerged as one of major health problems for women worldwide. Increasing of knowledge in this field has provided new data in this area which contribute to finding of new risk factors and could improve stroke treatment. A large number studies indicated a variety of risk factors including sex, age, race, smoking, diabetes, and physical inactivity could be involved in stroke in women. The understanding of various aspects involved in women stroke including risk factors, outcomes, stroke recovery, and prevention could provide new therapeutic platforms which could likely lead to better treatment in women stroke. Diagnosis is one of important steps in stroke therapy. It has been showed that a variety of biomarkers such as microRNAs (miRNAs), tPA, and von willebrand factor could be used as therapeutic and diagnostic biomarkers in stroke therapy. Here, we summarized various aspects of stroke in women which could help to recognition risk factors, outcomes, care, treatment, and novel biomarkers involve in treatment of stroke. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4191–4202, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of a novel bioreactor for in vivo engineering of pancreas tissue
Authors: Hashemi Javad , Pasalar Parvin , Soleimani Masoud , Khorramirouz Reza , Fendereski Kiarad , Enderami Seyed E. , Kajbafzadeh Abdol‐Mohammad
Published: May 2017

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic cells. Organ transplantation is an acceptable treatment for native organ failure. However, it is associated with several problems due to a number of reasons, such as the lack of appropriate donors and immunosuppression. In our present study, a novel model is presented for in vivo recellularization of acellular pancreas by implanting between the host pancreas and the adjacent omental flap. In this study, the pancreases were harvested and cannulated via the common bile duct and then, the scaffolds were acellularized by a detergent‐based protocol. After that, the abdomens of 35 rats were opened and the spleen was extracted with the adjacent omentum, and placed outside the abdomen. The acellularized scaffold was stretched over the host pancreas and the omentum was wrapped around it to make a sandwich‐like structure, which was then fixed with Chromic Sutures 6–0 and marked with Prolene 4–0 on four sides. All samples were biopsied at 14, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days post‐transplantation. The result showed marked recellularization of acellularized pancreas with visible neovascularization and neoβ‐cells with minimal inflammatory response. This study provides a new approach to produces a normal‐like pancreas by allograft transplantation for pancreas tissue engineering. We observed that in vivo transplantation of acellularized pancreas can promote recellularization, proliferation, and differentiation by blood circulation. These findings support that in vivo studies can contribute to finding faster solutions for the treatment of diabetes.
Differentiation of human olfactory bulb‐derived neural stem cells toward oligodendrocyte
Authors: Marei Hany E. , Shouman Zeinab , Althani Asma , Afifi Nahla , A Abd‐Elmaksoud , Lashen Samah , Hasan Anwarul , Caceci Thomas , Rizzi Roberto , Cenciarelli Carlo , Casalbore Patrizia
Published: May 2017

In the central nervous system (CNS), oligodendrocytes are the glial element in charge of myelin formation. Obtaining an overall presence of oligodendrocyte precursor cells/oligodendrocytes (OPCs/OLs) in culture from different sources of NSCs is an important research area, because OPCs/OLs may provide a promising therapeutic strategy for diseases affecting myelination of axons. The present study was designed to differentiate human olfactory bulb NSCs (OBNSCs) into OPCs/OLs and using expression profiling (RT‐qPCR) gene, immunocytochemistry, and specific protein expression to highlight molecular mechanism(s) underlying differentiation of human OBNSCs into OPCs/OLs. The differentiation of OBNSCs was characterized by a simultaneous appearance of neurons and glial cells. The differentiation medium, containing cAMP, PDGFA, T3, and all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA), promotes OBNSCs to generate mostly oligodendrocytes (OLs) displaying morphological changes, and appearance of long cytoplasmic processes. OBNSCs showed, after 5 days in OLs differentiation medium, a considerable decrease in the number of nestin positive cells, which was associated with a concomitant increase of NG2 immunoreactive cells and few O4(+)‐OPCs. In addition, a significant up regulation in gene and protein expression profile of stage specific cell markers for OPCs/OLs (CNPase, Galc, NG2, MOG, OLIG1, OLIG2, MBP), neurons, and astrocytes (MAP2, β‐TubulinIII, GFAP) and concomitant decrease of OBNSCs pluripotency markers (Oct4, Sox2, Nestin), was demonstrated following induction of OBNSCs differentiation. Taken together, the present study demonstrate the marked ability of a cocktail of factors containing PDGFA, T3, cAMP, and ATRA, to induce OBNSCs differentiation into OPCs/OLs and shed light on the key genes and pathological pathways involved in this process.