bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recognition of clinical characteristics for population‐based surveillance of fetal alcohol syndrome
Authors: Andrews Jennifer G. , Galindo Maureen K. , Meaney F. John , Benavides Argelia , Mayate Linnette , Fox Deborah , Pettygrove Sydney , O'Leary Leslie , Cunniff Christopher
Published: January 2018

Background

The diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) rests on identification of characteristic facial, growth, and central nervous system (CNS) features. Public health surveillance of FAS depends on documentation of these characteristics. We evaluated if reporting of FAS characteristics is associated with the type of provider examining the child.

Methods

We analyzed cases aged 7–9 years from the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Surveillance Network II (FASSNetII). We included cases whose surveillance records included the type of provider (qualifying provider: developmental pediatrician, geneticist, neonatologist; other physician; or other provider) who evaluated the child as well as the FAS diagnostic characteristics (facial dysmorphology, CNS impairment, and/or growth deficiency) reported by the provider.

Results

A total of 345 cases were eligible for this analysis. Of these, 188 (54.5%) had adequate information on type of provider. Qualifying physicians averaged more than six reported FAS characteristics while other providers averaged less than five. Qualifying physicians reported on facial characteristics and developmental delay more frequently than other providers. Also, qualifying physicians reported on all three domains of characteristics (facial, CNS, and growth) in 97% of cases while others reported all three characteristics on two thirds of cases.

Conclusions

Documentation in medical records during clinical evaluations for FAS is lower than optimal for cross‐provider communication and surveillance purposes. Lack of documentation limits the quality and quantity of information in records that serve as a major source of data for public health surveillance systems.
A new fluorescent chemosensor for cadmium(II) based on a pyrene‐appended piperidone derivative and its β‐cyclodextrin complex
Authors: Poomalai Sumathi , Govindaraj Tamil Selvan , Soundrapandian Suganthi , Paulraj Mosae Selvakumar , Enoch Israel Vijayaraj Muthu Vijayan
Published: January 2018

We report, in this article, a piperidin‐4‐one derivative carrying pyrenyl fluorescent reporter groups which acts as a Cd2+ ion sensor. The compound is synthesized and characterized using IR and NMR spectral techniques. The compound forms an inclusion complex with β‐cyclodextrin. It selectively binds to Cd2+ ions in water and aqueous β‐cyclodextrin media. The stoichiometry of the host–guest complex of the compound with β‐cyclodextrin is 1:2. The ligand–metal ion binding stoichiometry is 1:1 both in water and in β‐cyclodextrin. The linear concentration range of detection of the metal ion is reported. Cyclodextrin complex formation does not affect the metal ion selectivity of the compound.
Luminescent thermometer based on Eu3+/Tb3+‐organic‐functionalized mesoporous silica
Authors: Kaczmarek Anna M. , Esquivel Dolores , Laforce Brecht , Vincze Laszlo , Van Der Voort Pascal , Romero‐Salguero Francisco J. , Van Deun Rik
Published: January 2018

In this work we investigate a mesoporous silica (MS) decorated with dipyridyl‐pyridazine (dppz) ligands and further grafted with a mixture of Eu3+/Tb3+ ions (28.45%:71.55%), which was investigated as a potential thermometer in the 10–360 K temperature range. The MS material was prepared employing a hetero Diels–Alder reaction: 3,6‐di(2‐pyridyl)‐1,2,4,5‐tetrazine was reacted with the double bonds of vinyl‐silica (vSilica) followed by an oxidation procedure. We explore using the dppz‐vSilica material to obtain visible emitting luminescent materials and for obtaining a luminescent thermometer when grafted with Eu3+/Tb3+ ions. For the dppz‐vSilica@Eu,Tb material absolute sensitivity Sa of 0.011 K−1 (210 K) and relative sensitivity Sr of 1.32 %K−1 (260 K) were calculated showing good sensing capability of the material. Upon temperature change from 10 K to 360 K the emission color of the material changed gradually from yellow to red.
OPP Labeling Enables Total Protein Synthesis Quantification in CHO Production Cell Lines at the Single‐Cell Level
Authors: Nagelreiter Fabian , Coats Michael T. , Klanert Gerald , Gludovacz Elisabeth , Borth Nicole , Grillari Johannes , Schosserer Markus
Published: January 2018

Accurate measurement of global and specific protein synthesis rates is becoming increasingly important, especially in the context of biotechnological applications such as process modeling or selection of production cell clones. While quantification of total protein translation across whole cell populations is easily achieved, methods that are capable of tracking population dynamics at the single‐cell level are still lacking. To address this need, we apply O‐propargyl‐puromycin (OPP) labeling to assess total protein synthesis in single recombinant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells by flow cytometry. Thereby we demonstrate that global protein translation rates slightly increase with progression through the cell cycle during exponential growth. Stable CHO cell lines producing recombinant protein display similar levels of total protein synthesis as their parental CHO host cell line. Global protein translation does not correlate with intracellular product content of three model proteins, but the host cell line with high transient productivity has a higher OPP signal. This indicates that production cell lines with increased overall protein synthesis capacity can be identified by our method at the single‐cell level. In conclusion, OPP‐labeling allows rapid and reproducible assessment of global protein synthesis in single CHO cells, and can be multiplexed with DNA staining or any type of immunolabeling of specific proteins or markers for organelles.
Evaluate document fraud by thinking of all the ways to break the rules
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2018

“One of the biggest problems in international education is dealing with document fraud,” said Timothy J. Kell, senior evaluator at Educational Credential Evaluators, in a session at the annual meeting for the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.
Genome Mining of the Lipopeptide Biosynthesis of Paenibacillus polymyxa E681 in Combination with Mass Spectrometry: Discovery of the Lipoheptapeptide Paenilipoheptin
Authors: Vater Joachim , Herfort Stefanie , Doellinger Joerg , Weydmann Max , Borriss Rainer , Lasch Peter
Published: January 2018

Paenibacillus polymyxa strains are qualified for agro‐biotechnological uses such as plant growth promotion and for biocontrol strategies against deleterious phytopathogenic competitors in the soil depending on their attractive arsenal of bioactive compounds. Moreover, they are potent producers of antibiotics for medical applications. To identify new products of such organisms, genome mining strategies in combination with mass spectrometry are the methods of choice. Herein, we performed such studies with the Paenibacillus strain E681. Bioinformatic evaluation of its genome sequence revealed four gene clusters A–D encoding nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs). Accordingly, four lipopeptide families were detected by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS). Clusters A and D codify the well known fusaricidins and polymyxins. A yet‐unknown lipoheptapeptide was discovered and structurally characterized by de novo sequencing by using MALDI‐LIFT‐TOF/TOF MS. It was designated as paenilipoheptin. From structure predictions we infer that the production of this agent is encoded by gene cluster C. Gene cluster B encodes the synthesis of tridecaptins, a family of open‐chain lipotridecapeptides. Strain E681 produces new subspecies of such compounds (tridecaptins E) showing variations both in their fatty‐acid part as well as in their peptide part.
Centrifugal milling of wheat bran
Authors: Khalid Khairunizah Hazila , Manthey Frank , Simsek Senay
Published: January 2018

Background and objectives

Bran and germ are by‐products of wheat flour milling. These milling fractions generally consist of large flakes, and flour particles often adhere to the bran fragments. Commercially, flour particles are removed via bran finishers. The aims of the study were to, investigate the effect of the flour removal process on ground bran characteristics and to determine the milling parameters required to produce a high yield of fine bran flour. Different tempering levels (10%–16%) were applied to bran prior to size reduction using centrifugal mill. Mill parameters studied were mill rotor speed (6,000–15,000 rpm) and feed rate (6–12 g/min).

Findings

Results showed that the bran and germ fraction contained 10% flour and the flour was 1.4‐fold higher in protein content compared with the bran. Ground bran moisture content was positively correlated with moisture level during tempering. Ground bran particle size increased as tempering level increased.

Conclusions

Overall, ground bran milled from centrifugal mill at high mill rotor speed (12,000–15,000 rpm) with low tempering level (10%–12%) and low‐feed rate (6 g/min) produced ground bran with high yield of fine particle size (52%–59%) regardless whether flour was removed or not.

Significance and novelty

However, recovering the flour from the bran fraction may be beneficial to increase the extraction rate of refined flour.
Significance of variables for discrimination: Applied to the search of organic ions in mass spectra measured on cometary particles
Authors: Varmuza Kurt , Filzmoser Peter , Hoffmann Irene , Walach Jan , Cottin Hervé , Fray Nicolas , Briois Christelle , Modica Paola , Bardyn Anaïs , Silén Johan , Siljeström Sandra , Stenzel Oliver , Kissel Jochen , Hilchenbach Martin
Published: January 2018

The instrument Cometary Secondary Ion Mass Analyzer (COSIMA) on board of the European Space Agency mission Rosetta to the comet 67P/Churyumov‐Gerasimenko is a secondary ion mass spectrometer with a time‐of‐flight mass analyzer. It collected near the comet several thousand particles, imaged them, and analyzed the elemental and chemical compositions of their surfaces. In this study, variables have been generated from the spectral data covering the mass ranges of potential C‐, H‐, N‐, and O‐containing ions. The variable importance in binary discriminations between spectra measured on cometary particles and those measured on the target background has been estimated by the univariate t test and the multivariate methods discriminant partial least squares, random forest, and a robust method based on the log ratios of all variable pairs. The results confirm the presence of organic substances in cometary matter—probably a complex macromolecular mixture.
Roles of Amphipathicity and Hydrophobicity in the Micelle‐Driven Structural Switch of a 14‐mer Peptide Core from a Choline‐Binding Repeat
Authors: Zamora‐Carreras Héctor , Maestro Beatriz , Strandberg Erik , Ulrich Anne S. , Sanz Jesús M. , Jiménez M. Ángeles
Published: January 2018

Choline‐binding repeats (CBRs) are ubiquitous sequences with a β‐hairpin core that are found in the surface proteins of several microorganisms such as S. pneumoniae (pneumococcus). Previous studies on a 14‐mer CBR sequence derived from the pneumoccal LytA autolysin (LytA239–252 peptide) have demonstrated a switch behaviour for this peptide, so that it acquires a stable, native‐like β‐hairpin conformation in aqueous solution but is reversibly transformed into an amphipathic α‐helix in the presence of detergent micelles. With the aim of understanding the factors responsible for this unusual β‐hairpin to α‐helix transition, and to specifically assess the role of peptide hydrophobicity and helical amphipathicity in the process, we designed a series of LytA239–252 variants affecting these two parameters and studied their interaction with dodecylphosphocholine (DPC) micelles by solution NMR, circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopies. Our results indicate that stabilising cross‐strand interactions become essential for β‐hairpin stability in the absence of optimal turn sequences. Moreover, both amphipathicity and hydrophobicity display comparable importance for helix stabilisation of CBR‐derived peptides in micelles, indicating that these sequences represent a novel class of micelle/membrane‐interacting peptides.
Inhibitor‐Directed Spin Labelling—A High Precision and Minimally Invasive Technique to Study the Conformation of Proteins in Solution
Authors: Yin Dongsheng M. , Hammler Daniel , Peter Martin F. , Marx Andreas , Schmitz Anton , Hagelueken Gregor
Published: January 2018

Pulsed electron–electron double resonance spectroscopy (known as PELDOR or DEER) has recently become a very popular tool in structural biology. The technique can be used to accurately measure distance distributions within macromolecules or macromolecular complexes, and has become a standard method to validate structural models and to study the conformational flexibility of macromolecules. It can be applied in solution, in lipid environments or even in cells. Because most biological macromolecules are diamagnetic, they are normally invisible for PELDOR spectroscopy. To render a particular target molecule accessible for PELDOR, it can be engineered to contain only one or two surface‐exposed cysteine residues, which can be efficiently spin‐labelled using thiol‐reactive nitroxide compounds. This method has been coined “site‐directed spin labelling” (SDSL) and is normally straight‐forward. But, SDSL can be very challenging for proteins with many native cysteines, or even a single functionally or structurally important cysteine residue. For such cases, alternative spin labelling techniques are needed. Here we describe the concept of “inhibitor‐directed spin labelling” (IDSL) as an approach to spin label suitable cysteine‐rich proteins in a site‐directed and highly specific manner by employing bespoke spin‐labelled inhibitors. Advantages and disadvantages of IDSL are discussed.
Semibatch Emulsion Polymerization of Vinylidene Fluoride
Authors: Brandl Florian , Beuermann Sabine
Published: January 2018

Die vielseitigen Eigenschaften von Polyvinylidenfluorid ermöglichen ein breites Anwendungsspektrum von der Automobilindustrie bis zur Medizin. Die halbkontinuierliche Emulsionspolymerisation von Vinylidenfluorid wurde untersucht. Die Rührergeschwindigkeit und der Reaktionsdruck wurden variiert, um einen effizienten Eintrag des gasförmigen Monomers in die Reaktionsmischung zu erzielen. Polymere mit enger Molmassenverteilung wurden aus Iodtransferpolymerisationen erhalten. Die Größen der Latexteilchen wurden mittels dynamischer Lichtstreuung und Feldemissionselektronenmikroskopie ermittelt.
Electrophysiological characteristics and catheter ablation of symptomatic focal premature atrial contractions originating from pulmonary veins and non‐pulmonary veins
Authors: Huang Xingfu , Chen Yanjia , Xiao Junhui , Zhao Hongxin , Chen Yizhen , Liu Shenrong , He Liwei , Huang Zheng , Zhou Haobin , Xu Dingli , Peng Jian
Published: January 2018

Background

We aimed to explore electrophysiological characteristics of premature atrial contractions (PACs) originating from pulmonary veins (PVs) and non‐PVs and to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of catheter ablation for PACs.

Hypothesis

Symptomatic PACs originated from different positions and whether could be ablated.

Methods

Symptomatic, frequent, and drug‐refractory PAC patients were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent electrophysiological study and catheter ablation.

Results

A total of 81 patients were enrolled: 45 patients with PACs originating from PVs (group A), 24 patients with PACs originating from non‐PVs (group B), and 12 patients with PACs arising from both PVs and non‐PVs (group C). Twenty (44.4%) patients in group A, 6 (50.0%) patients in group C, and 3 (12.5%) patients in group B presented paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (P < 0.05). PV isolation was performed in groups A and C. Focal ablation or superior vena cava isolation was performed in groups B and C, depending on patient condition. PACs were abolished in all patients except one patient in group B. During a median follow‐up period of 21.3 ± 14.3 months, 40 (88.9%) patients in group A, 10 (83.3%) patients in group C, and 21 (87.5%) patients in group B were free of recurrence after initial ablation.

Conclusions

Frequent PACs originating from PVs were associated with increased incidence of atrial fibrillation compared with PACs originating from non‐PVs. Catheter ablation yields a satisfactory success rate and could be a good choice for eliminating symptomatic, frequent, and drug‐refractory PACs.
Safety and efficacy of second‐generation drug‐eluting stents compared with bare‐metal stents: An updated meta‐analysis and regression of 9 randomized clinical trials
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmed N. , Shah Nikhil H. , Elgendy Islam Y. , Agarwal Nayan , Elgendy Akram Y. , Mentias Amgad , Barakat Amr F. , Mahtta Dhruv , David Anderson R. , Bavry Anthony A.
Published: January 2018

The efficacy of second‐generation drug‐eluting stents (DES; eg, everolimus and zotarolimus) compared with bare‐metal stents (BMS) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention was challenged recently by new evidence from large clinical trials. Thus, we aimed to conduct an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of second‐generation DES compared with BMS. Electronic databases were systematically searched for all RCTs comparing second‐generation DES with BMS and reporting clinical outcomes. The primary efficacy outcome was major adverse cardiac events (MACE); the primary safety outcome was definite stent thrombosis. The DerSimonian and Laird method was used for estimation of summary risk ratios (RR). A total of 9 trials involving 17 682 patients were included in the final analysis. Compared with BMS, second‐generation DES were associated with decreased incidence of MACE (RR: 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.69‐0.88), driven by the decreased incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) (RR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.48‐0.95), target‐lesion revascularization (RR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.42‐0.53), definite stent thrombosis (RR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.41‐0.78), and definite/probable stent thrombosis (RR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.38‐0.80). The incidence of all‐cause mortality was similar between groups (RR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.79‐1.10). Meta‐regression showed lower incidences of MI with DES implantation in elderly and diabetic patients (P = 0.026 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Compared with BMS, second‐generation DES appear to be associated with a lower incidence of MACE, mainly driven by lower rates of target‐lesion revascularization, MI, and stent thrombosis. However, all‐cause mortality appears similar between groups.
UV‐Activated Persulfate Oxidation of Orange III Dye Using KrCl Excilamp
Authors: Sizykh Marina , Batoeva Agnes , Tsydenova Oyuna
Published: January 2018

The paper demonstrates the possibility of using UV radiation of KrCl excilamps to activate persulfate (PS) in advanced oxidation processes. The model compound—the dye Orange III—is subjected to treatments involving UV radiation, persulfate, and/or ferrous ion, alone or in combinations. According to Orange III oxidation efficiency, the tested oxidative systems can be arranged in the following order: PS/UVex/Fe2+ > PS/UVex > PS/Fe2+ > UVex > PS. Furthermore, the energy efficiencies of the oxidative systems enhanced by UV radiation from a KrCl excilamp (222 nm) and a low‐pressure mercury lamp (254 nm) are compared. The highest energy efficiency and mineralization are achieved by activating persulfate with a combination of a transition metal (Fe2+) and UV radiation of a KrCl excilamp.
Fertility preservation options in pediatric and adolescent patients with cancer
Authors: Burns Karen C. , Hoefgen Holly , Strine Andrew , Dasgupta Roshni
Published: January 2018

The incidence of childhood cancer has steadily increased since the 1950s, with approximately 16,000 children diagnosed each year. However, with the advent of more effective multimodal therapies, childhood cancer survival rates have continued to improve over the past 40 years, with >80% of patients now surviving into adulthood. Fertility preservation (FP) has become an important quality‐of‐life issue for many survivors of childhood cancer. As a result, the therapeutic options have become less gonadotoxic over time and more patients are being offered FP options. This review examines the indications for consultation, male and female FP options both in the prepubertal patient and adolescent patient, and the unique ethical issues surrounding FP in this vulnerable population. Cancer 2018;124:1867‐76. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
A Bis(phenylethynyl)pyrene‐Based [3]Rotaxane as an Extremely Photostable Fluorescence Probe Suitable for Hard‐Edged Irradiation Experiments
Authors: Yoshizawa Atsushi , Inouye Masahiko
Published: January 2018

Water‐soluble bis(phenylethynyl)pyrene‐based [3]rotaxanes were synthesized from a fluorescent core, two permethyl α‐cyclodextrins and two stopper molecules. The inner fluorophore was completely shielded with permethyl α‐cyclodextrin that does not interfere with the excitation or emission of the fluorophore. The system emitted only blue light attributable to monomeric pyrene under all conditions with high fluorescence quantum yields. The [3]rotaxane showed high photostability and could be excited with 405 nm light, a common laser wavelength of commercial microscopes. The [3]rotaxane was derivatized to its succinimidyl ester for labeling Lys residues of proteins. The fluorescent core was found to be stable against photoirradiation even after labeling. The [3]rotaxane‐type fluorophore may find application as a superior probe in fields such as super‐resolution microscopy and single‐molecule detection experiments in which significant photodurability is required.
Substrate Temperature Induced (020) Growth Facets of Nebulizer Sprayed BiVO4 Thin Films for Effective Photodegradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Ravidhas Chellathurai , Arivukarasan Dharmalingam , Venkatesh Ramadoss , Suresh Esther Santhoshi Monica , Anitha Balasubramanian , Josephine Arokiaraj Juliat , Ezhil Raj Arthur Ayyadurai Moses , Ravichandran Krishna Samy , Gopalakrishnan Chandrasekaran , Sanjeeviraja Chinnappanadar
Published: January 2018

The high‐efficient and visible‐light active monoclinic BiVO4 thin films with preferentially oriented (020) facets are successfully deposited by nebulizer spray pyrolysis technique. The role of substrate temperature over crystal growth facets and other physical properties of BiVO4 films are analyzed using XRD, HRTEM, UV spectrometer, and Raman analysis. The BiVO4 thin film deposited at 350 °C possesses broad absorbance in the visible region with highly exposed (020) facet is obtained. Room temperature photoluminescence analysis is used to understand the effective charge separation of photogenerated electron‐hole pair in BiVO4 thin films. It is worth to mention that the obtained monoclinic scheelite BiVO4 film with preferentially oriented (020) facet has large surface areas to produce greater number of reactive hydroxyl radicals, for the effective photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B dye. Total organic content (TOC) study is conducted to examine the mineralization of organic compounds present in rhodamine B dye.
Predator identity more than predator richness structures aquatic microbial assemblages in Sarracenia purpurea leaves
Authors: Canter Erin J. , Cuellar‐Gempeler Catalina , Pastore Abigail I. , Miller Thomas E. , Mason Olivia U.
Published: January 2018

The importance of predators in influencing community structure is a well‐studied area of ecology. However, few studies test ecological hypotheses of predation in multi‐predator microbial communities. The phytotelmic community found within the water‐filled leaves of the pitcher plant, Sarracenia purpurea, exhibits a simple trophic structure that includes multiple protozoan predators and microbial prey. Using this system, we sought to determine whether different predators target distinct microorganisms, how interactions among protozoans affect resource (microorganism) use, and how predator diversity affects prey community diversity. In particular, we endeavored to determine if protozoa followed known ecological patterns such as keystone predation or generalist predation. For these experiments, replicate inquiline microbial communities were maintained for seven days with five protozoan species. Microbial community structure was determined by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing (iTag) and analysis. Compared to the control (no protozoa), two ciliates followed patterns of keystone predation by increasing microbial evenness. In pairwise competition treatments with a generalist flagellate, prey communities resembled the microbial communities of the respective keystone predator in monoculture. The relative abundance of the most common bacterial Operational Taxonomic Unit (OTU) in our system decreased compared to the control in the presence of these ciliates. This OTU was 98% similar to a known chitin degrader and nitrate reducer, important functions for the microbial community and the plant host. Collectively, the data demonstrated that predator identity had a greater effect on prey diversity and composition than overall predator diversity.
Oxidative desulfurization of gasoline catalyzed by IMID@PMA@CS nanocomposite as a high‐performance amphiphilic nanocatalyst
Authors: Rezvani Mohamad Ali , Shaterian Maryam , Shokri Aghbolagh Zahra , Babaei Robab
Published: January 2018

A new organic–inorganic hybrid phase transfer‐type nanocatalyst (IMID@PMA@CS) was successfully prepared by modification of H3PMo12O40 (PMA) with imidazolium bromide C3N2H5Br (IMIDBr) and immobilized on chitosan polymer via sol–gel method under oil‐bath condition at room temperature. The incorporation of the materials was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterization methods. Catalytic activity of synthesized nanocomposite was tested on the oxidative desulfurization (ODS) of model sulfur compounds and real gasoline in the presence of H2O2/CH3COOH as an oxidant and acetonitrile as an extraction solvent in different conditions. Additionally, kinetic studies were carried out and activation energy for oxidation of sulfur compounds was determined. The excellent reusability of the heterogeneous IMID@PMA@CS composite was achieved in five cycles. It is believed that the present IMID@PMA@CS/CH3COOH/H2O2 system can be a convenient strategy for lowering the sulfur content of gasoline fuel under moderate reaction conditions. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018
Gold(I) Catalyzed Enyne Cycloisomerization – A Roadmap to Privileged Heterocyclic Scaffolds
Authors: Lee Yen‐Chun , Kumar Kamal
Published: January 2018

Gold(I) catalyzed cycloisomerization reaction is one of the key transformations that remain underexplored to build molecular diversity and complexity. In this review, we summarize synthesis endeavors where enyne cycloisomerization chemistry was utilized to form structurally intriguing as well as biologically relevant heterocyclic scaffolds. To this goal, most of the efforts tend to exploit gold carbene type intermediates, often supporting a cyclopropane ring and transform them into new scaffolds. Various examples have been grouped together to highlight the role of presence or absence of external heteroatom nucleophiles in modulating reactive intermediates into novel molecular frameworks. The last section is devoted to the emerging role of gold(I) catalyzed cycloisomerization reactions in driving the divergent synthesis approaches wherein a common substrate can be transformed into distinct molecular scaffolds by merely varying reaction conditions or gold complexes.
Health insurance coverage and access to skilled birth attendance in Togo
Authors: Mati Komi , Adegoke Korede K. , Michael‐Asalu Abimbola , Salihu Hamisu M.
Published: January 2018

Objective

To examine the effect of the newly introduced national health insurance plan on access to skilled birth attendance (SBA).

Methods

The present secondary analysis used data from the 2014 Togo Demographic and Health Survey. The study sample comprised women aged 15–49 years who had at least one delivery in the 5 years preceding the survey. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

The adjusted sample included 4826 women. Overall, 195 (4.0%) of 4826 pregnant women had health insurance. The coverage rate varied by wealth, with poor women having the lowest coverage rate (22/931 [1.1%]). Approximately one‐third of the women had no SBA at delivery. Women with health insurance were almost three times as likely to be assisted by skilled healthcare personnel at delivery as were those without health insurance (adjusted odds ratio 2.74, 95% confidence interval 1.63–4.59). Other factors associated with SBA included education, household wealth, and age.

Conclusion

The study highlights the positive impact health insurance coverage could have on access to SBA and provides evidence that SBA use could be improved through improved access to health insurance. An accessible health insurance scheme will offer a pathway to achieving health equity and Sustainable Development Goal 3 in Togo.
How fast to run in the Red Queen race?
Authors: Oldham Matthew
Published: January 2018

This paper creates a market ecosystem, via an agent‐based model, that combines the dynamic features of the Red Queen effect with well‐accepted business world performance indicators. Essentially, firms are tasked with remaining ‘alive’ by adapting to their environment through implementing a competitive response of innovating or imitating. An analysis of the firms’ behaviours delivers a deep understanding of the drivers of innovative behaviour within the economy. The key findings of the paper are (1) that concentrated markets are not entirely detrimental to innovative behaviour, with the blend of firm type being a more important consideration, and (2) that the rate at which an innovation impairs existing markets affects the activity levels of the firms within the population. The model's results are validated against a matching study based on real‐world data.
Placental basement membrane proteins are required for effective cytotrophoblast invasion in a three‐dimensional bioprinted placenta model
Authors: Kuo Che‐Ying , Guo Ting , Cabrera‐Luque Juan , Arumugasaamy Navein , Bracaglia Laura , Garcia‐Vivas Amy , Santoro Marco , Baker Hannah , Fisher John , Kim Peter
Published: January 2018

Fetal cytotrophoblast invasion of maternal decidual vasculature is necessary to normal pregnancy. In preeclampsia, there is shallow invasion and abnormal remodeling of the uterine vasculature that lead to significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The placental basement membrane (BM) proteins (e.g., laminin and collagen) has been implicated in the development of placenta while the level of laminin is significantly lower in preeclampsia. However, there are very limited studies, if any, on the effect of extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironment on the invasion of cytotrophoblast. In this study, we hypothesized that placental BM proteins are required for effective cytotrophoblast invasion. Using proteomics, we found that more than 80% of ECM proteins in placental basal plate (pECM) were BM proteins. In addition to upregulating expressions of MMP2 (1.5‐fold) and MMP9 (6.3‐fold), pECM significantly increased the motility rates of cytotrophoblasts by 13‐fold (from 5.60 ± 0.95 to 75.5 ± 21.8 µm/day) to achieve an effective invasion rate that was comparable toin vivoresults. Treatments with PI3K inhibitors completely removed the pECM‐enhanced invasive phenotypes and genotypes of cytotrophoblasts, suggesting its dominant role in cytotrophoblast‐ECM interactions. Our results described, for the first time, the substantial effects of the ECM microenvironment on regulating cytotrophoblast invasion, an area that is less investigated but appear to be critical in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Moreover, the approach presented in this work that fabricates organ models with organ‐specific ECM can be an attractive option to screen and develop novel therapeutics and biomarkers not only in preeclampsia but also other diseases such as cancer metastasis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1476–1487, 2018.
Regulation of skeletal myotube formation and alignment by nanotopographically controlled cell‐secreted extracellular matrix
Authors: Jiao Alex , Moerk Charles T. , Penland Nisa , Perla Mikael , Kim Jinsung , Smith Alec S. T. , Murry Charles E. , Kim Deok‐Ho
Published: January 2018

Skeletal muscle has a well‐organized tissue structure comprised of aligned myofibers and an encasing extracellular matrix (ECM) sheath or lamina, within which reside satellite cells. We hypothesize that the organization of skeletal muscle tissues in culture can affect both the structure of the deposited ECM and the differentiation potential of developing myotubes. Furthermore, we posit that cellular and ECM cues can be a strong determinant of myoblast fusion and morphology in 3D tissue culture environments. To test these, we utilized a thermoresponsive nanofabricated substratum to engineer anisotropic sheets of myoblasts which could then be transferred and stacked into multilayered tissues. Within such engineered tissues, we found that myoblasts rapidly sense topography and deposit structurally organized ECM proteins. Furthermore, the initial tissue structure was found to exert significant control over myoblast fusion and eventual myotube organization. These results highlight the importance of ECM structure on myoblast fusion and organization, and provide insights into substrate‐mediated control of myotube formation in the development of novel, more effective, engineered skeletal muscle tissues. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1543–1551, 2018.
ATM and p53 combined analysis predicts survival in glioblastoma multiforme patients: A clinicopathologic study
Authors: Romano Francesco Jacopo , Guadagno Elia , Solari Domenico , Borrelli Giorgio , Pignatiello Sara , Cappabianca Paolo , Del Basso De Caro Marialaura
Published: January 2018

Glioblastoma is one of the most malignant cancers, with a distinguishing dismal prognosis: surgery followed by chemo‐ and radiotherapy represents the current standard of care, and chemo‐ and radioresistance underlie disease recurrence and short overall survival of patients suffering from this malignancy. ATM is a kinase activated by autophosphorylation upon DNA doublestrand breaks arising from errors during replication, byproducts of metabolism, chemotherapy or ionizing radiations; TP53 is one of the most popular tumor suppressor, with a preeminent role in DNA damage response and repair. To study the effects of the immunohistochemical expression of p‐ATM and p53 in glioblastoma patients, 21 cases were retrospectively examined. In normal brain tissue, p‐ATM was expressed only in neurons; conversely, in tumors cells, the protein showed a variable cytoplasmic expression (score: +,++,+++), with being completely undetectable in three cases. Statistical analysis revealed that high p‐ATM score (++/+++) strongly correlated to shorter survival (P = 0.022). No difference in overall survival was registered between p53 normally expressed (NE) and overexpressed (OE) glioblastoma patients (P = 0.669). Survival analysis performed on the results from combined assessment of the two proteins showed that patients with NE p53 /low pATM score had longer overall survival than the NE p53/ high pATM score counterpart. Cox‐regression analysis confirmed this finding (HR = 0.025; CI 95% = 0.002–0.284; P = 0.003). Our study outlined the immunohistochemical expression of p‐ATM/p53 in glioblastomas and provided data on their possible prognostic/predictive of response role. A “non‐oncogene addiction” to ATM for NEp53 glioblastoma could be postulated, strengthening the rationale for development of ATM inhibiting drugs.
Pioglitazone/metformin adduct regulates insulin secretion and inhibits high glucose‐induced apoptosis via p21‐p53‐MDM2 signaling in INS‐1 cells
Authors: Liu Rong‐Xing , Ma Yan , Hu Xue‐Lian , Liao Yun‐Peng , Hu Xiang‐Nan , He Bai‐Cheng , Sun Wen‐Juan
Published: January 2018

Pioglitazone/metformin adduct is a novel compound synthesized from pioglitazone and metformin combined at a molar mass ratio of 1:1. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pioglitazone/metformin adduct on high glucose‐induced insulin secretion and apoptosis in INS‐1 cells. Western blot and CCK8 analyses showed that the death rate of INS‐1 cells increased in response to glucose treatment in a concentration‐dependent manner. ELISA assays and Western blot analyses showed that insulin secretion peaked following treatment with glucose concentration at 33.33 mM. Treatment of INS‐1 cells with 1 μM pioglitazone/metformin adduct in the presence of 33.33 mM glucose greatly improveded the levels of insulin and apoptosis rates compared to those of the control group. Analysis of mechanism underlying these effects revealed the involvement of the p21‐p53‐MDM2 signaling pathway. Our results indicate that pioglitazone/metformin adduct is superior to pioglitazone and/or metformin in regulating high glucose‐induced insulin secretion and apoptosis in INS‐1 cells.
Synthesis of para‐[18F]Fluorofenbufen Octylamide for PET Imaging of Brain Tumors
Authors: Huang Ying‐Cheng , Farn Shiou‐Shiow , Chou Yo‐Cheng , Yeh Chun‐Nan , Chang Chi‐Wei , Chung Yi‐Hsiu , Chen Tsong‐Wen , Huang Wen‐Sheng , Yu Chung‐Shan
Published: January 2018

Glioma is a brain tumor associated with a poor therapeutic outcome with an average life expectancy of 14 months. Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression is associated with the progression of the tumor and is considered a therapeutic target of chemo agents. Para‐[18F]Fluorofenbufen octylamide ([18F]FFOA) was obtained with the radiochemical yield of 16% and specific activity of 4 GBq/μmol, and the IC50 values of COX‐1 and COX‐2 were 26.5 and 32.7 μM, respectively. The stability of cold FFOA in plasma was significantly improved with a half‐life of 30 min, and the uptake ratio of [18F]FFOA in rats with brain tumor was 1.5 as determined from accumulation of 3.9% injection dose (ID/g) in the brain tumor and 2.5% ID/g in the brain. [18F]FFOA with COX‐2 micromolar affinity can be used to differentiate between brain tumor and normal region.
Positive youth development and adolescent eating disorder symptomatology: The role of natural mentors
Authors: Stephens Lauren E. , Bowers Edmond P. , Lerner Jacqueline V.
Published: January 2018

Natural mentoring relationships have been linked to diverse outcomes in youth; however, little research has examined the role of natural mentors in adolescent eating disorder symptomatology. The present study applied a strength‐based, positive youth development (PYD) perspective to examine the cross‐sectional relations among disordered eating attitudes and behaviors, PYD, and natural mentoring relationships. We used data from 975 9th‐grade youth (61.1% female; meanage = 15.01, standard deviation = 0.73) who participated in the 4‐H Study of PYD. Natural mentoring relationships had a differential association with outcomes based on youth sex. Natural mentors were linked to higher levels of PYD in both males and females, but these relationships were more strongly linked to eating disorder symptomatology and PYD in males. Having a natural mentor predicted significantly lower body dissatisfaction in males, but not in females. Natural mentoring relationships did buffer the relation between drive for thinness symptoms and PYD in females. The present study provides evidence for the benefits natural mentors may provide to youth reporting disordered eating attitudes and behaviors. The findings suggest taking an ecological approach to eating disorder symptomatology and ways youth–adult partnerships can be leveraged or nurtured to promote positive and healthy development.
The apelin receptor influences biomechanical and morphological properties of endothelial cells
Authors: Strohbach Anne , Pennewitz Malte , Glaubitz Michael , Palankar Raghavendra , Groß Stefan , Lorenz Florian , Materzok Ilka , Rong Alena , Busch Mathias C. , Felix Stephan B. , Delcea Mihaela , Busch Raila
Published: January 2018

The adaption of endothelial cells to local flow conditions is a multifunctional process which leads to distinct alterations in cell shape, the subcellular distribution of structural proteins, and cellular function. G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been identified to be fundamentally involved in such processes. Recently, we and others have shown that the expression of the endothelial GPCR apelin receptor (APJ) is regulated by fluid flow and that activation of APJ participates in signaling pathways which are related to processes of mechanotransduction. The present study aims to illuminate these findings by further visualization of APJ function. We show that APJ is located to the cellular junctions and might thus be associated with platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1 (PECAM‐1) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Furthermore, siRNA‐mediated silencing of APJ expression influences the shear‐induced adaption of HUVEC in terms of cytoskeletal remodeling, cellular elasticity, cellular motility, attachment, and distribution of adhesion complexes. Taken together, our results demonstrate that APJ is crucial for complemented endothelial adaption to local flow conditions.
Early time course of variation in coelomic fluid ionic concentrations in sea urchins abruptly exposed to hypo‐ and hyper‐osmotic salinity challenges: Role of size and cross‐section area of test holes
Authors: Castellano Giovanna Carstens , Lopes Elinia Medeiros , Ventura Carlos Renato Rezende , Freire Carolina Arruda
Published: January 2018

Echinoderms are restricted to the marine environment and are osmoconformer invertebrates. However, some species live in unstable environments. Especially those species, and those of larger body size, tend to show variable, albeit transient, ionic gradients between their coelomic fluid and external seawater. In order to further examine how sea urchin size relates to apparent ionic permeability of their body wall/epithelia, specimens of Echinometra lucunter, Lytechinus variegatus, Paracentrotus gaimardi, and Arbacia lixula—A. lixula of two distinct populations, Rio de Janeiro and Santa Catarina—were abruptly transferred from 35 psu to either 25 or 45 psu. Sodium, chloride, magnesium, and potassium concentrations were assayed in their coelomic fluids after 0, 1, 2, and 3 hr of exposure. Relative area of putative permeable (i.e., cross section areas of soft tissues, or test holes) surfaces (PPS) was estimated in empty tests as the sum of the peristomial area (oral hole in the empty test) and the total cross‐section area of ambulacral holes, divided by the total volume (TV) of the test. L. variegatus and E. lucunter, the largest species, had PPS/TV values similar to that of the much smaller P. gaimardi. A. lixula was the “most putatively‐permeable and conformer” among them all, especially urchins from the Santa Catarina population. Internal ionic levels equilibrated faster with external water in 45 than in 25, and differences among ions were observed. Body size is relevant, among many other factors, to aid conformers such as sea urchins to dwell in intertidal unstable habitats.
Defining spatiotemporal characteristics of climate change trends from downscaled GCMs ensembles: how climate change reacts in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Luo Min , Liu Tie , Frankl Amaury , Duan Yongchao , Meng Fanhao , Bao Anming , Kurban Alishir , De Maeyer Philippe
Published: January 2018

The fragile ecosystem, scarce water resources, and limited ecosystem resilience of Xinjiang, China make the region especially vulnerable to climate change. Researchers need reliable analyses of climate change trends to formulate regional mitigation and adaption strategies and to support sustainable development. Therefore, two statistical downscaling methods and the combination of a Mann–Kendall test with Co‐Kriging interpolation were used to investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics of climate change in Xinjiang based on the ensemble of 37 general circulation models (GCMs) in 2021–2060. The reliabilities of single run and ensemble downscaling results of GCMs were evaluated by 69 meteorological stations over the period 1965–2004. The correlation coefficients (CC) with the observations for precipitation and temperature ranged between 0.4–0.8 and 0.9–0.99 in the reference period, respectively. CC improved to 0.87 and was close to 1 after downscaling for precipitation and temperature, respectively. A pronounced increase of ca. 0.27–0.51 °C decade−1 was projected overall, and especially for Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 in northern Xinjiang. In general, the precipitation changed by −1.66 to 6.83% decade−1 while varying seasonally and spatially; a declining tendency emerged in the western regions of Xinjiang during summer. More extreme rainfall events are predicted to occur in summer and autumn months, while warmer extremes would be concentrated in August. The climate in Xinjiang will continue to become warmer and wetter. Nevertheless, Western Xinjiang will experience a warmer and drier climate in summer and autumn. These projections of climate change in the near future are able to provide useful information for the development of potential mitigation measures and adaptation strategies. Multiple circulation mechanisms are also suggested accounting for the changes in precipitation and temperature which will benefit the understanding of the possible drivers of climate variability in this region.
A new assessment in total and extreme rainfall trends over central and southern Peruvian Andes during 1965–2010
Authors: Heidinger Haline , Carvalho Leila , Jones Charles , Posadas Adolfo , Quiroz Roberto
Published: January 2018

Understanding the spatio‐temporal variability of rainfall over mountainous regions such as the Andes is crucial for the maintenance of water resources and ecosystems. This study provided a comprehensive analysis of the signal, statistical significance and spatial pattern of rainfall trends in central and southern Peruvian Andes (CSPA) from 1965 to 2010. Rainfall from 47 quality‐controlled rain gauge stations was examined using the hydrologic calendar year. Total and extreme rainfall indices proposed by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) were calculated and trends were examined with Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator. Significant regional patterns of changes in rainfall extremes were investigated and compared with previous studies. Four major regions of stations were identified based on principal component analysis and clustering techniques: Amazon, central Pacific, southern Pacific and Titicaca basins. Statistically significant trend patterns showed that the annual total rainfall has decreased in the Amazon basin, despite the increase in the number of rainy days and some extreme rainfall indices. Decrease in 1‐day and 5‐day yearly maximum rainfall was observed in central Pacific, along with an increase in the number of wet days. Positive trends in indices related to the intensity of very strong daily rainfall were detected in southern Pacific. Titicaca basin showed an increase in the intensity of rainfall extremes. Rainfall variability and trends were evaluated during contrasting El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). Most stations in the CSPA exhibited positive (negative) anomaly of total and extreme rainfall indices (consecutive dry days) during La Niña (El Niño) years. Positive (negative) anomalies of annual total rainfall and consecutive dry days during positive (negative) PDO occurred in the Amazon, southern Pacific and Titicaca basins, respectively. The ENSO–PDO conditions may have influenced the complex and mostly non‐statistically significant long‐term trends in CSPA.