bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Pathway for the Preparation of Aryl(isoquinoline)iodonium(III) Salts and Synthesis of Radiofluorinated Isoquinolines
Authors: Yuan Zheliang , Cheng Ran , Chen Pinhong , Liu Guosheng , Liang Steven H.
Published: August 2016

Iodonium compounds play a pivotal role in 18F‐fluorination of radiopharmaceuticals containing non‐activated arenes. However, preparation of these species is limited to oxidation conditions or exchange with organometallics that are prepared from aryl halides. Herein we describe a novel “one‐pot” process to assemble aryl(isoquinoline)iodonium salts in 40–94 % yields from mesoionic carbene silver complex and Aryl‐I‐Py2(OTf)2. The method is general, practical, and compatible with well‐functionalized molecules as well as useful for the preparation of a wide range of 18F‐labeled isoquinolines resulting in up to 92 % radiochemical conversion. As proof of concept, a fluorinated isoquinoline alkaloid, 18F‐aspergillitine is prepared in 10 % isolated radiochemical yield from the corresponding phenyl(aspergillitine)iodonium salt.
Stability Analysis and Design of Uncertain Discrete‐time Switched Systems with Actuator Saturation Using Antiwindup and Multiple Lyapunov Functions Approach
Authors: Zhang Xinquan , Zhao Jun , Li Xiaoyin
Published: August 2016

The stability analysis and anti‐windup design problem is investigated for a class of discrete‐time switched systems with saturating actuators by using the multiple Lyapunov functions approach. Firstly, we suppose that a set of linear dynamic output controllers have been designed to stabilize the switched system without input saturation. Then, we design anti‐windup compensation gains and a switching law in order to enlarge the domain of attraction of the closed‐loop system. Finally, the anti‐windup compensation gains and the estimation of domain of attraction are presented by solving a convex optimization problem with linear matrix inequality (LMI) constraints. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
Exponential Stability for Multi‐Area Power Systems with Time Delays Under Load Frequency Controller Failures
Authors: Li Xu , Wang Rui , Wu Shu‐Nan , Dimirovski Georgi M.
Published: August 2016

This paper investigates the exponential stability problem for a class of multi‐area power systems with time delays under load frequency controller failures (LFCFs). For describing the phenomenon of LFCFs, the considered multi‐area power system is rewritten as a switched system with multiple time delays. By adopting the switching technique, the exponential stability conditions for multi‐area power systems are developed when the controller failure frequency and the unavailability ratio of the controller are restricted. Finally, one example is given to show the applicability of the proposed method.
The gut‐skin axis in health and disease: A paradigm with therapeutic implications
Authors: O'Neill Catherine A. , Monteleone Giovanni , McLaughlin John T. , Paus Ralf
Published: August 2016

As crucial interface organs gut and skin have much in common. Therefore it is unsurprising that several gut pathologies have skin co‐morbidities. Nevertheless, the reason for this remains ill explored, and neither mainstream gastroenterology nor dermatology research have systematically investigated the ‘gut‐skin axis'. Here, in reviewing the field, we propose several mechanistic levels on which gut and skin may interact under physiological and pathological circumstances. We focus on the gut microbiota, with its huge metabolic capacity, and the role of dietary components as potential principle actors along the gut‐skin axis. We suggest that metabolites from either the diet or the microbiota are skin accessible. After defining open key questions around the nature of these metabolites, how they are sensed, and which cutaneous changes they can induce, we propose that understanding of these pathways will lead to novel therapeutic strategies based on targeting one organ to improve the health of the other.
Can heavy isotopes increase lifespan? Studies of relative abundance in various organisms reveal chemical perspectives on aging
Authors: Li Xiyan , Snyder Michael P.
Published: August 2016

Stable heavy isotopes co‐exist with their lighter counterparts in all elements commonly found in biology. These heavy isotopes represent a low natural abundance in isotopic composition but impose great retardation effects in chemical reactions because of kinetic isotopic effects (KIEs). Previous isotope analyses have recorded pervasive enrichment or depletion of heavy isotopes in various organisms, strongly supporting the capability of biological systems to distinguish different isotopes. This capability has recently been found to lead to general decline of heavy isotopes in metabolites during yeast aging. Conversely, supplementing heavy isotopes in growth medium promotes longevity. Whether this observation prevails in other organisms is not known, but it potentially bears promise in promoting human longevity.
Are aberrant phase transitions a driver of cellular aging?
Authors: Alberti Simon , Hyman Anthony A.
Published: August 2016

Why do cells age? Recent advances show that the cytoplasm is organized into many membrane‐less compartments via a process known as phase separation, which ensures spatiotemporal control over diffusion‐limited biochemical reactions. Although phase separation is a powerful mechanism to organize biochemical reactions, it comes with the trade‐off that it is extremely sensitive to changes in physical‐chemical parameters, such as protein concentration, pH, or cellular energy levels. Here, we highlight recent findings showing that age‐related neurodegenerative diseases are linked to aberrant phase transitions in neurons. We discuss how these aberrant phase transitions could be tied to a failure to maintain physiological physical‐chemical conditions. We generalize this idea to suggest that the process of cellular aging involves a progressive loss of the organization of phase‐separated compartments in the cytoplasm.
Nomenclature of homodetic cyclic peptides produced from ribosomal precursors: An IUPAC task group interim report
Authors: Craik David J. , Young Shim Youn , Göransson Ulf , Moss Gerard P. , Tan Ninghua , Jadhav Pramodkumar D. , Shen Jianheng , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: August 2016

In 2015, an International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) Task Group was formed to develop nomenclature recommendations for homodetic cyclic peptides produced from ribosomal precursors. Delegates of the 2015 International Conference on Circular Proteins (ICCP) were presented with the strengths and weaknesses of four published approaches to homodetic cyclic peptide nomenclature, and a summary of the ensuing discussion is presented here. This interim report presents a potentially novel suggestion—the use of Cahn‐Ingold‐Prelog rules to specify amino acid priority in homodetic peptides for consistent numbering. Indeed, this might be the first extension of the Cahn‐Ingold‐Prelog rules in five decades. The authors invite interested parties to contact the corresponding author with suggestions for the improvement of the proposed nomenclature; these ideas will be discussed and considered for inclusion in the final report.
Systematic review of risk prediction models for diabetes after bariatric surgery
Authors: Zhang R , Borisenko O , Telegina I , Hargreaves J , Ahmed A R , Sanchez Santos R , Pring C , Funch-Jensen P , Dillemans B , Hedenbro J L
Published: August 2016

Background

Diabetes remission is an important outcome after bariatric surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify risk prediction models of diabetes remission after bariatric surgery.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed in MEDLINE, MEDLINE-In-Process, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases in April 2015. All English-language full-text published derivation and validation studies for risk prediction models on diabetic outcomes after bariatric surgery were included. Data extraction included population, outcomes, variables, intervention, model discrimination and calibration.

Results

Of 2330 studies retrieved, eight met the inclusion criteria. Of these, six presented development of risk prediction models and two reported validation of existing models. All included models were developed to predict diabetes remission. Internal validation using tenfold validation was reported for one model. Two models (ABCD score and DiaRem score) had external validation using independent patient cohorts with diabetes remission assessed at 12 and 14 months respectively. Of the 11 cohorts included in the eight studies, calibration was not reported in any cohort, and discrimination was reported in two.

Conclusion

A variety of models are available for predicting risk of diabetes following bariatric surgery, but only two have undergone external validation.
Determination of MLN0128, an investigational antineoplastic agent, in human plasma by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Kunati Sandeep R. , Xu Yan
Published: August 2016

MLN0128, an mTOR kinase inhibitor, is currently undergoing clinical investigation for treatment of a variety of cancers. To support this work, an LC–MS/MS method has been developed for the determination of MLN0128 in human plasma. A structural analog STK040263 was used as the internal standard. Both MLN0128 and the IS were first extracted from plasma using methyl tert‐butyl ether; then separated on a Waters XTerra® MS C18 column using a mobile phase consisting of methanol–acetonitrile–10.0 mm ammonium formate (34:6:60, v/v/v) at a flow rate of 0.300 mL min−1. Quantitation of MLN0128 was done by positive electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry in multiple‐reaction‐monitoring mode. This method has a total run time of <4 min with the retention times of 1.95 and 2.94 min for the IS and MLN0128, respectively. The method has been validated per the US Food and Drug Administration guidance for bioanalytical method validation. It has a calibration range of 0.100–50.0 ng mL−1 in human plasma with a correlation coefficient > 0.999. The overall assay accuracy and precision were ≤ ± 4 and ≤8%, respectively. The IS normalized recovery of MLN0128 was 98–100%. The stability studies showed that MLN0128 was stable under all tested conditions. The method developed may be useful for clinical studies of MLN0128.
Ultraperformance convergence chromatography‐high resolution tandem mass spectrometry for lipid biomarker profiling and identification
Authors: Jones Jace W. , Carter Claire L. , Li Fei , Yu Jianshi , Pierzchalski Keely , Jackson Isabel L. , Vujaskovic Zeljko , Kane Maureen A.
Published: August 2016

Lipids represent biologically ubiquitous and highly dynamic molecules in terms of abundance and structural diversity. Whereas the potential for lipids to inform on disease/injury is promising, their unique characteristics make detection and identification of lipids from biological samples analytically demanding. We report the use of ultraperformance convergence chromatography (UPC2), a variant of supercritical fluid chromatography, coupled to high‐resolution, data‐independent tandem mass spectrometry for characterization of total lipid extracts from mouse lung tissue. The UPC2 platform resulted in lipid class separation and when combined with orthogonal column chemistries yielded chromatographic separation of intra‐class species based on acyl chain hydrophobicity. Moreover, the combined approach of using UPC2 with orthogonal column chemistries, accurate mass measurements, time‐aligned low‐ and high‐collision energy total ion chromatograms, and positive and negative ion mode product ion spectra correlation allowed for confident lipid identification. Of great interest was the identification of differentially expressed ceramides that were elevated 24 h post whole thorax lung irradiation. The identification of lipids that were elevated 24 h post‐irradiation signifies a unique opportunity to investigate early mechanisms of action prior to the onset of clinical symptoms in the whole thorax lung irradiation mouse model.
Determination of dihydroartemisinic acid in Artemisia annua L. by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection
Authors: Tian Na , Tang Yuwei , Tian Dongming , Liu Zhonghua , Liu Shuoqian
Published: August 2016

Dihydroartemisinic acid (DHAA) is the direct precursor to artemisinin, an effective anti‐malaria compound from Artemisia annua L. (A. annua), and it can be transformed to artemisinin without the catalysis of enzyme. A rapid and sensitive analysis of DHAA in A. annua is needed to screen excellent plant resources aimed to improve artemisinin production. In order to develop a rapid and sensitive determination method for DHAA in plant, the extraction and analysis conditions were extensively investigated in the present work. As a result, extraction of powdered A. annua leaves at 55°C for 50 min with chloroform resulted in the highest yield of DHAA, with a recovery of >98%. The precision of this gas chromatographic procedure ranged from 1.22 to 2.94% for intra‐day and from 1.69 to 4.31% for inter‐day, respectively. The accuracy was 99.55–103.02% for intra‐day and 98.86–99.98% for inter‐day, respectively. The measured LOQ and LOD values of the proposed method reached 5.00 and 2.00 μg/mL, respectively. Validation indicated the method was robust, quick, sensitive and adequate for DHAA analysis.
Economic analysis of pilot‐scale production of B‐phycoerythrin
Authors: Torres‐Acosta Mario A. , Ruiz‐Ruiz Federico , Aguilar‐Yáñez José M. , Benavides Jorge , Rito‐Palomares Marco
Published: August 2016

β‐Phycoerythrin is a color protein with several applications, from food coloring to molecular labeling. Depending on the application, different purity is required, affecting production cost and price. Different production and purification strategies for B‐phycoerythrin have been developed, the most studied are based on the production using Porphyridium cruentum and purified using chromatographic techniques or aqueous two‐phase systems. The use of the latter can result in a less expensive and intensive recovery of the protein, but there is lack of a proper economic analysis to study the effect of using aqueous two‐phase systems in a scaled‐up process. This study analyzed the production of B‐Phycoerythrin using real data obtained during the scale‐up of a bioprocess using specialized software (BioSolve, Biopharm Services, UK). First, a sensitivity analysis was performed to identify critical parameters for the production cost, then a Monte Carlo analysis to emulate real processes by adding uncertainty to the identified parameters. Next, the bioprocess was analyzed to determine its financial attractiveness and possible optimization strategies were tested and discussed. Results show that aqueous two‐phase systems retain their advantages of low cost and intensive recovery (54.56%); the costs of production per gram calculated (before titer optimization: US$15,709 and after optimization: US$2,374) allowed to obtain profit (in the range of US$millions in a 10‐year period) for a potential company taking this production method by comparing the production cost against commercial prices. The bioprocess analyzed is a promising and profitable method for the generation of a highly purified B‐phycoerythrin. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:1472–1479, 2016
Protein Aggregate‐Ligand Binding Assays Based on Microfluidic Diffusional Separation
Authors: Zhang Yingbo , Buell Alexander K. , Müller Thomas , De Genst Erwin , Benesch Justin , Dobson Christopher M. , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: August 2016

The measurement of molecular interactions with pathological protein aggregates, including amyloid fibrils, is of central importance in the context of the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies against protein misfolding disorders. Probing such interactions by conventional methods can, however, be challenging because of the supramolecular nature of protein aggregates, their heterogeneity, and their often dynamic nature. Here we demonstrate that direct measurement of diffusion on a microfluidic platform enables the determination of affinity and kinetics data for ligand binding to amyloid fibrils in solution. This method yields rapid binding information from only microlitres of sample, and is therefore a powerful technique for identifying and characterising molecular species with potential therapeutic or diagnostic application.
3 D Imaging and Structural Analysis of a Mesoporous‐Silica‐Body‐Supported Eggshell Cobalt Catalyst for Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Han Ting , Li Xiaopeng , Lin Chao , Zhang Haojie , Gao Peng , Zhao Yonghui , Du Fuping , Chen Yuyun , Sun Yuhan
Published: August 2016

For understanding the relationship between the structure and catalytic property and further optimizing the synthetic steps, it is imperative to obtain basic information about the characteristics of heterogeneous catalysts, such as porosity, dispersion, and accessibility of the active metal phases. Herein, we reported a multiscale analysis of an eggshell‐Co‐based catalyst for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS), which was prepared by wetness impregnation. Conventional characterization techniques, such as mercury porosimetry, nitrogen physisorption, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were employed for obtaining basic information about the porosity and dispersion of cobalt on the nanoscale; in addition, phase‐contrast X‐ray computed microtomography (X‐ray μCT) as a powerful method was employed for obtaining vitally complementary information regarding the 3 D structure of a millimeter‐sized mesoporous silica support and a full‐field view of the macroscopic distribution of cobalt. The Co reduction behavior and FTS performance was correlated with the structure analyses, highlighting the importance of simultaneously controlling the dispersion and spatial distribution of Co ranging from macro to nanoscale.
Designing ‘Totem’ C2‐Symmetrical Iron Porphyrin Catalysts for Stereoselective Cyclopropanations
Authors: Carminati Daniela Maria , Intrieri Daniela , Caselli Alessandro , Le Gac Stéphane , Boitrel Bernard , Toma Lucio , Legnani Laura , Gallo Emma
Published: August 2016

The catalytic activity of the iron(III) C2 chiral porphyrin Fe(2)(OMe) in alkene cyclopropanation is herein reported. The catalyst promoted the reaction of differently substituted styrenes with diazo derivatives with trans‐diastereoselectivities and enantioselectivities up to 99:1 and 87 %, respectively. In addition, high TON and TOF values (up to 10 000 and 120 000 h−1, respectively) were observed indicating good activity and stability of the catalyst in optimized experimental conditions. The study of the cyclopropanation reaction revealed that the porphyrin skeleton is composed of two ‘totem’ parts which were independently responsible for the observed enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. To further our research we also investigated the catalytic role of the methoxy axial ligand coordinated to the iron atom. The molecular structure of Fe(2)(OMe) was optimized by DFT calculations which were also employed to achieve a better understanding of the mechanistic details of the carbene transfer reaction.
Redox and Acid–Base Properties of Binuclear 4‐Terphenyldithiophenolate Complexes of Nickel
Authors: Koch Felix , Berkefeld Andreas , Schubert Hartmut , Grauer Claudius
Published: August 2016

This work reports on the redox and acid–base properties of binuclear complexes of nickel from 1,4‐terphenyldithiophenol ligands. The results provide insight into the cooperative electronic interaction between a dinickel core and its ligand. Donor/acceptor contributions flexibly adjust to stabilize different redox states at the metals, which is relevant for redox reactions like proton reduction. Proton transfer to the [S2Ni2] core and Ni−H bond formation are kinetically favored over the thermodynamically favored yet unproductive proton transfer to ligand.
Focusing the Neuroscience and Societal Implications of Cognitive Enhancers
Authors: Savulich G , Piercy T , Brühl AB , Fox C , Suckling J , Rowe JB , O'Brien JT , Sahakian BJ
Published: August 2016

Cognitive enhancement can benefit the individual and society, but also has associated risks and ethical concerns. Cognitive‐enhancing drugs are used in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Nonpharmacological strategies are also emerging, which have the potential to improve motivational deficits associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms and should be prioritized for development. The increasing lifestyle use of “smart” and other drugs indicates the desire for healthy people to improve themselves. Safety and ethical implications are discussed.
Role of Metal Oxide Electron‐Transport Layer Modification on the Stability of High Performing Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Singh Trilok , Singh Jai , Miyasaka Tsutomu
Published: August 2016

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite light absorbers have recently emerged as a “holy grail” for next generation thin‐film photovoltaics with excellent optoelectronics properties and low fabrication cost. In a very short span of time, we have witnessed a pronounced and unexpected progress in organic– inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with a vertical rise in power conversion efficiency from 3.8 to 22.1 %. In this manuscript we focus specifically on the recent development of metal oxide‐based electron‐transporting layer (ETL) modification for high performing PSCs and their stability. This review highlights various methodologies to modify existing compact/scaffold layers for improving device performance and stability. Various aspects of the ETL are discussed with different metal oxide compact layers in their relation to modification in mesoporous layers towards the design of a cell structure with high performance and stability.
Predict your enrollment spikes and declines using state and federal employment data
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2016

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — What metrics do you use to accurately plan for and predict the ebbs and flows of adult student enrollment your institution will see, years into the future? At the Society for College and University Planning annual conference, Matt Wetstein, assistant superintendent and vice president of instruction and planning at San Joaquin Delta College in California, shared the information‐gathering procedures he used to analyze data regarding the economic impact on enrollment numbers to more accurately predict enrollment declines and surges. “Conventional wisdom tells us that state higher education enrollments are driven by the state revenue economy,” Wetstein said. “We wanted to figure out if that was true and what that meant for our institution.” Read on to learn how to forecast your institutional enrollment so as to ensure accurate expectations for your administrative leadership teams.
Metabolic adaptations in a range‐expanding arthropod
Authors: Van Petegem Katrien H. P. , Renault David , Stoks Robby , Bonte Dries
Published: August 2016

Despite an increasing number of studies documenting life‐history evolution during range expansions or shifts, we lack a mechanistic understanding of the underlying physiological processes. In this explorative study, we used a metabolomics approach to study physiological changes associated with the recent range expansion of the two‐spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). Mite populations were sampled along a latitudinal gradient from range core to edge and reared under benign common garden conditions for two generations. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we obtained metabolic population profiles, which showed a gradual differentiation along the latitudinal gradient, indicating (epi)genetic changes in the metabolome in association with range expansion. These changes seemed not related with shifts in the mites’ energetic metabolism, but rather with differential use of amino acids. Particularly, more dispersive northern populations showed lowered concentrations of several essential and nonessential amino acids, suggesting a potential downregulation of metabolic pathways associated with protein synthesis.
Plasticity of fertilization rates under varying temperature in the broadcast spawning mussel,Mytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Eads Angela R. , Evans Jonathan P. , Kennington Winn Jason
Published: August 2016

Oceans are a huge sink for the increased heat associated with anthropogenic climate change, and it is vital to understand the heat tolerance of marine organisms at all life stages to accurately predict species’ responses. In broadcast spawning marine invertebrates, reproduction is a vulnerable process in which sperm and eggs are released directly into the open water. Gametes are then exposed to fluctuating environmental conditions that may impact their fertilizing capacity. Using the broadcast spawning Mediterranean mussel,Mytilus galloprovincialis,as a model species, we performed blocks of factorial mating crosses to assess the variance in fertilization rates among individuals under both ambient and elevated temperatures. Overall, we found a small, but significant decline in fertilization rates with elevated temperatures. However, there was substantial plasticity in responses, with particular mussels having increased fertilization under elevated temperatures, although the majority showed decreased fertilization rates. Our results suggest possible future reproductive costs to ocean warming inM. galloprovincialis, although it is also possible that genetic variation for thermal sensitivity may allow for adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
Indenyl Compounds with Constrained Hapticity: The Effect of Strong Intramolecular Coordination
Authors: Mrózek Ondřej , Vinklárek Jaromír , Růžičková Zdeňka , Honzíček Jan
Published: August 2016

A series of cyclopentadienyl and indenyl molybdenum(II) compounds with intramolecularly coordinated pyridine arms, including scorpionate‐like species bearing two irreversibly coordinated arms on the indenyl core, were synthesized and characterized. All presented structural types were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Owing to the strong nucleophilicity of pyridine, the intramolecular interaction was found to be considerably stronger than that in analogous species bearing tertiary amines in the side chain. Although the starting compounds for the syntheses were isostructural, the reaction outcomes differed considerably. The cyclopentadienyl precursor gave a pentacoordinate η5:κN‐compound, whereas the indenyl analogue produced a hexacoordinate species with the unprecedented η3:κN‐coordination mode of the indenyl ligand and thus represents an unusual example of the so‐called indenyl effect. The unusually high stability of the η3:κN‐coordination compounds toward η3 to η5 haptotropic rearrangement was clarified by theoretical calculations. As the strong intramolecular interaction prevented rotation of the indenyl moiety, it could not reach the conformation suitable for the η3 to η5 rearrangement. As a result, the low hapticity was effectively locked.
Formation of cholesterol oxides in lipid medium during microwave heating
Authors: Leal‐Castañeda Everth J. , Hernández‐Becerra Josafat A. , Rodríguez‐Estrada Maria Teresa , García Hugo S.
Published: August 2016

Microwave (MW) heating of foods may cause the formation of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs). COPs formation depends on the conditions of MW heating and the composition of the food matrix. The aim of this work was to study the formation of major COPs from cholesterol incorporated into palm, extra virgin olive, soybean, or fish oils during MW heating, and to monitor changes in peroxide value and fatty acid (FA) profiles. Model systems composed of mixtures of cholesterol and oil (2.5 mg of cholesterol/g oil), were heated for 20 min in multimode (900 W), unimode MW (≈300 W) ovens, or convection oven at 180°C. Maximum total COPs contents largely varied (46.4–250.4 µg/g lipids), depending on the type of heating system and oil matrix. Multimode MW heating caused greater COPs formation than unimode MW. COPs formation trends in the conventional oven were similar to those of MW heating, except for fish oil. Results indicated that soybean oil, compared with the other oils tested, did not promote cholesterol oxidation during MW heating, while the opposite trend was observed for extra‐virgin olive oil and palm oil. FA profile and natural antioxidants influenced cholesterol and surrounding media oxidation during MW heating.

Practical applications: This work explores the formation of oxysterols by microwave heating in model systems. This will help assess the possible risks for formation of these compounds during industrial and home cooking practices.

Microwave (MW) heating of foods may cause formation of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs). In this work, a model system consisting of four types of edible oils with added cholesterol was employed and heated with three different forms (unimodal and multimodal MW, and conventional heating) for different time periods. Generation of COPs in all the model systems was monitored.
Comparison of phenolic content and antioxidant activities of millet varieties grown in different locations in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kumari Disna , Madhujith Terrence , Chandrasekara Anoma
Published: August 2016

Soluble and bound phenolic compounds were extracted from different varieties of millet types namely, finger millet, foxtail, and proso millet cultivated at dry and intermediate climatic zones in Sri Lanka. The extracts were examined for their total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and proanthocyanidin content (PC). The antioxidant activities were meassured by reducing power (RP), trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferrous ion chelating ability (FICA), and using a β carotene linoleate model system. The ferulic acid content of extracts were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatoghraphy (HPLC). Finger millet showed the highest phenolic content and antioxidant activities compared to proso and foxtail millets. The phenolic content as well as antioxidant activites of soluble and bound phenolic extracts of millets were affected by variety and cultivated location. The highest phenolic content and antioxidant activites were reported for millet samples cultivated in areas belonging to the dry zone in Sri Lanka.
Parental origin of the deletion del(20q) in Shwachman‐Diamond patients and loss of the paternally derived allele of the imprinted L3MBTL1 gene
Authors: Nacci Lucia , Valli Roberto , Maria Pinto Rita , Zecca Marco , Cipolli Marco , Morini Jacopo , Cesaro Simone , Boveri Emanuela , Rosti Vittorio , Corti Paola , Ambroni Maura , Pasquali Francesco , Danesino Cesare , Maserati Emanuela , Minelli Antonella
Published: August 2016

Shwachman–Diamond syndrome (SDS) (OMIM 260400) is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, skeletal, and hematological abnormalities and bone marrow (BM) dysfunction. Mutations in the SBDS gene cause SDS. Clonal chromosome anomalies are often present in BM, i(7)(q10) and del(20q) being the most frequent ones. We collected 6 SDS cases with del(20q): a cluster of imprinted genes, including L3MBTL1 and SGK2 is present in the deleted region. Only the paternal allele is expressed for these genes. Based on these data, we made the hypothesis that the loss of this region, in relation to parental origin of deletion, may be of relevance for the hematological phenotype. By comparing hematological data of our 6 cases with a group of 20 SDS patients without evidence of del(20q) in BM, we observed a significant difference for Hb levels (P < 0.012), and a difference slightly above the significance level for RBC counts (P < 0.053): in both cases the values were higher in patients with del(20q). We also report preliminary evidence for an increased number of BFU‐E colonies in cases with paternal deletion, data on the presence of the deletion in colonies and in mature circulating lymphocytes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of parenting styles on children developmental outcome: The role of academic self‐concept as a mediator
Authors: Sangawi Hoshiar , Adams John , Reissland Nadja
Published: August 2016

Although the importance of parenting styles directly influencing child development is well established, fewer studied have examined whether parenting styles also affect children's behavioural problems indirectly, mediated through children's academic self‐concept (ASC). We examined direct and shared effects of parenting styles on behavioural problems of 199 Kurdish primary school children with a mean age of 11 years 7 months (range 11 years 5 months to 12 years 3 months). Questionnaires measured parenting styles (child version of Alabama Parenting Questionnaire), assessed children's ASC (Myself‐As‐Learner Scale) and identified children's behavioural problems with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). PROCESS analysis was used to perform the mediation analysis. The results revealed that positive and negative parenting composites are indirectly related to children's internalising behaviour problems. In addition, ASC partially mediated the relationship between the negative parenting composite and prosocial behaviour. However, the mediation analysis did not show the expected indirect effect of parenting styles on externalising problems as being mediated via ASC. Hence, we argue that the ASC serves as a significant mediator in the relationship between parenting styles with prosocial behaviour and internalising problems.
Structure and properties of iron oxide clusters: From Fe6 to Fe6O20 and from Fe7 to Fe7O24
Authors: Gutsev Gennady L. , Belay Kalayu G. , Gutsev Lavrenty G. , Ramachandran Bala R.
Published: August 2016

Geometrical and electronic structures of the neutral and singly negatively charged Fe6On and Fe7Om clusters in the range of 1 ≤ n ≤ 20 and 1 ≤ m ≤ 24, respectively, are computed using density functional theory with the generalized gradient approximation. The largest clusters in the two series, Fe6O20 and Fe7O24, can be described as Fe(FeO4)5 and Fe(FeO4)6 or alternatively as [FeO5](FeO3)5 and [FeO6](FeO3)6, respectively. The Fe6O20 and Fe7O24 clusters possess adiabatic electron affinities (EAad) of 5.64 eV and 5.80 eV and can be attributed to the class of hyperhalogens since FeO4 is an unique closed‐shell superhalogen with the EAad of 3.9 eV. The spin character of the lowest total energy states in both series changes from ferromagnetic to ferrimagnetic or antiferromagnetic when the first FeOFe bridge is formed. Oxidation decreases substantially the polarizability per atom of the initial bare clusters; namely, from 5.98 Å3 of Fe6 to 2.47 Å3 of Fe6O20 and from 5.67 Å3 of Fe7 to 2.38 Å3 of Fe7O24. The results of our computations pertaining to the binding energies of O, Fe, O2, and FeO in the Fe7Om series provide an explanation for the experimentally observed abundance of the iron oxide nanoparticles with stoichiometric compositions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of Genomewide DNA Methylation Reveals Differences in DNA Methylation Levels between Dormant and Naturally as well as Artificially Potentiated Pedicle Periosteum of Sika Deer (Cervus nippon)
Authors: YANG CHUN , LU XIAO , SUN HONGMEI , CHU WEN HUI , LI CHUNYI
Published: August 2016

Deer antlers are the only mammalian appendages that can fully regenerate each year from the permanent bony protuberances of the frontal bones, called pedicles. Pedicle periosteum (PP) is the key tissue for antler regeneration and the source of antler stem cells. The distal one third of the PP has acquired the ability to regenerate antlers and is termed the potentiated PP (PPP), whereas the proximal two thirds of the PP requires further interactions within its niche to launch antler regeneration and is termed the dormant PP (DPP). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of potentiation from the DPP to the PPP are unknown. In this study, we used the fluorescence‐labeled methylation‐sensitive amplified polymorphism method to assess the levels of DNA methylation in both cells and tissues of the PPP and the DPP. The results showed that the levels of DNA methylation were significantly lower in the PPP compared to the DPP (P < 0.05). Therefore, DNA demethylation may be involved in the process of this potentiation. This involvement was further confirmed by functional testing by artificially creating a potentiated PP (aPPP) from DPP tissue. Moreover, we identified 15 methylated fragments by the methylation sensitive amplified polymorphism method that are either unique to the PPP or the DPP, which were further confirmed by Southern blot analysis. Taken together, our data suggest that DNA demethylation is involved in the process of PP potentiation, which is a prerequisite step for the initiation of antler regeneration. These findings provide the first experimental evidence to link epigenetic regulation and mammalian appendage regeneration.
Comparative lever analysis and ontogenetic scaling in esocid fishes: Functional demands and constraints in feeding biomechanics
Authors: Goulet Courtney L. , Smith Harrison J. , Maie Takashi
Published: August 2016

When animals grow, the functional demands that they experience often change as a consequence of their increasing body size. In this study, we examined the feeding biomechanics in esocid species that represent different size classes (small, Esox americanus; intermediate, Esox niger; large, Esox lucius), and how their bite forces and associated functional variables change as they grow. In order to evaluate bite performance through ontogeny, we dissected and measured dimensions of the feeding apparatus and the adductor mandibulae muscle complex with its segmentum facialis subdivisions such as the ricto‐malaris, stegalis and endoricto‐malaris across a wide range of body sizes. The collected morphological data was used as input variables for a published anatomical model to simulate jaw function in these fish species. Maximum bite forces for both anterior bite and posterior bite increased in isometry in E. americanus and E. niger. The posterior bite of E. lucius also increases in isometry, however, the anterior bite increases in positive allometry. Intraspecific comparison within E. lucius indicated the increase of bite forces in more developed individuals accelerated after the fish grew out of fingerling stage. In addition, our analysis indicated functional differentiation between subdivisions of the adductor mandibulae segmentum facialis, as well as interspecific differences in the pattern of contribution to the bite performance by these subdivisions. Our study provides insights into not only the musculoskeletal basis of the jaw function of esocid species, but also the feeding capacity of this species in relation to the functional demands it faces as one of the top predators in lake and river systems. J. Morphol. 277:1447–1458, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of the fossil fish‐specific diversity in a chadian continental assemblage: Exploration of morphological continuous variation in Synodontis (Ostariophysi, Siluriformes)
Authors: Pinton Aurélie , Le Fur Soizic , Otero Olga
Published: August 2016

In the fossil record, the quantification of continuous morphological variation has become a central issue when dealing with species identification and speciation. In this context, fossil taxa with living representatives hold great promise, because of the potential to characterise patterns of intraspecific morphological variation in extant species prior to any interpretation in the fossil record. The vast majority of catfish families fulfil this prerequisite, as most of them are represented by extant genera. However, although they constitute a major fish group in terms of distribution, and ecological and taxonomic diversity, the quantitative study of their past morphological variation has been neglected, as fossil specimens are generally identified based on the scarcest remains, that is, complete neurocrania that bear discrete characters. Consequently, a part of freshwater catfish history is unprospected and unknown. In this study, we explored the morphological continuous variation of the humeral plate shape in Synodontis catfishes using Elliptic Fourier Analysis (EFA), and compared extant members and fossil counterparts. We analysed 153 extant specimens of 11 Synodontis species present in the Chad basin, in addition to 23 fossil specimens from the Chadian fossiliferous area of Toros Menalla which is dated around 7 Ma. This highly speciose genus, which is one of the most diversified in Africa, exhibits a rich fossil record with several hundred remains mostly identified as Synodontis sp. The analysis of the outline of the humeral plate reveals that some living morphological types were already represented in the Chad Basin 7 My ago, and allows for the discovery of extinct species. Beside illuminating the complex Neogene evolutionary history of Synodontis, these results underline the interest in the ability of isolated remains to reconstruct a past dynamic history and to validate the relevance of EFA as a tool to explore specific diversity through time. J. Morphol. 277:1486–1496, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spherical Polyolefin Particles from Olefin Polymerization in the Confined Geometry of Porous Hollow Silica Particles
Authors: Freudensprung Ines , Joe Daejune , Nietzel Sven , Vollmer Doris , Klapper Markus , Müllen Klaus
Published: August 2016

Porous hollow silica particles (HSPs) are presented as new templates to control the product morphology in metallocene‐catalyzed olefin polymerization. By selectively immobilizing catalysts inside the micrometer‐sized porous hollow silica particles, the high hydraulic forces resulting from polymer growth within the confined geometries of the HSPs cause its supporting shell to break up from the inside. As the shape of the support is replicated during olefin polymerization, perfectly spherical product particles with very narrow size distribution can be achieved by using HSPs exhibiting a monomodal size distribution. Furthermore, the size of the obtained product particles can be controlled not only by the polymerization time but also by the size of the support material.

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Mesh‐free models for static analysis of smart laminated composite beams
Authors: Ray M. C.
Published: August 2016

This paper is concerned with the development of mesh‐free models for the static analysis of smart laminated composite beams. The overall smart composite beam is composed of a laminated substrate composite beam and a piezoelectric layer attached partially or fully at the top surface of the substrate beam. The piezoelectric layer acts as the distributed actuator layer of the smart beam. A layer‐wise displacement theory and an equivalent single‐layer theory have been used to derive the models. Several cross‐ply substrate beams are considered for presenting the numerical results. The responses of the smart composite beams computed by the present new mesh‐free model based on the layer‐wise displacement theory excellently match with those obtained by the exact solutions. The mesh‐free model based on the equivalent single‐layer theory cannot accurately compute the responses due to transverse actuation by the piezoelectric actuator. The models derived here suggest that the mesh‐free method can be efficiently used for the numerical analysis of smart structures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Olfactomedin 1 negatively regulates NF‐κB signalling and suppresses the growth and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Shi Wei , Ye Zhihua , Zhuang Li , Li Yingchang , Shuai Wendi , Zuo Zhixiang , Mao Xueli , Liu Ranyi , Wu Jiangxue , Chen Shuai , Huang Wenlin
Published: August 2016

Uncontrolled growth and distant metastasis are hallmarks of colorectal cancer (CRC), but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Olfactomedin 1 (OLFM1), a member of the olfactomedin domain‐containing protein family, plays an important role in the development of neurogenic tissues. Recently, OLFM1 deregulation was frequently observed in several cancers, and it was induced in colon cell lines after treatment with the demethylating agent 5‐aza‐2'‐deoxycytidine. However, the function of OLFM1 in CRC remains unknown. In this study, we reanalysed published microarray data and found that OLFM1 was significantly down‐regulated in primary CRC samples compared to adjacent non‐cancerous tissues. The results of immunohistochemistry indicated that decreased OLFM1 expression was significantly associated with lymph node status (p = 0.023), distant metastasis (p < 0.001), and AJCC/TNM stage (p = 0.013), and CRC patients with low OLFM1 expression had consistently poor overall survival (OS; p < 0.001) and progression‐free survival (PFS; p < 0.001). Further analysis demonstrated that OLFM1 was epigenetically silenced in CRC tissues and cell lines via promoter hypermethylation. Overexpression and knockdown of OLFM1 attenuated and increased, respectively, CRC cells' proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and metastasis to the lung and liver in vivo. Mechanistically, the promotion of growth and metastasis of CRC cells by silencing of OLFM1 was associated with the activation of the non‐canonical NF‐κB signalling pathway. OLFM1 interacted with NF‐κB‐inducing kinase (NIK; MAP3K14) and repressed the phosphorylation of its downstream substrate Ikappa B kinase alpha (IKKα). OLFM1 expression was negatively correlated with the phosphorylation level of IKKα in CRC tissue samples. Knockdown of NIK impaired the ability of OLFM1 to repress NF‐κB signalling, cell growth or migration. Thus, OLFM1 may be a valuable biomarker and therapeutic target for CRC patients. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcome of children with relapsed or refractory neuroblastoma: A meta‐analysis of ITCC/SIOPEN European phase II clinical trials
Authors: Moreno Lucas , Rubie Herve , Varo Amalia , Le Deley Marie Cecile , Amoroso Loredana , Chevance Aurelie , Garaventa Alberto , Gambart Marion , Bautista Francisco , Valteau‐Couanet Dominique , Geoerger Birgit , Vassal Gilles , Paoletti Xavier , Pearson Andrew D. J.
Published: August 2016

Background

Few randomized trials have been conducted in children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma and data about outcomes including progression‐free survival (PFS) in these patients are scarce.

Procedure

A meta‐analysis of three phase II studies of children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma conducted in Europe (temozolomide, topotecan–vincristine–doxorubicin and topotecan–temozolomide) was performed. Individual patient data with extended follow‐up were collected from the trial databases after publication to describe trial outcomes (response rate, clinical benefit ratio, duration of treatment, PFS, and overall survival [OS]). Characteristics of subjects with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma were compared.

Results

Data from 71 children and adolescents with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma were collected. Response definitions were not homogeneous in the three trials. Patients were on study for a median of 3.5 months (interquartile range [IQR] 1.9–6.2). Of those, 35.2% achieved a complete or partial response, 26.3% experienced a response after more than two cycles, and 23.9% received more than six cycles. Median PFS from study entry for all, refractory, and relapsed patients was 6.4 ± 1.0, 12.5 ± 6.8, and 5.7 ± 1.0 months, respectively (P = 0.006). Median OS from study entry for all, refractory, and relapsed patients was 16.1 ± 4.3, 27.9 ± 20.2, and 11.0 ± 1.6 months, respectively (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Baseline data for response rate, clinical benefit ratio, duration of treatment, PFS, and OS were provided. Two subpopulations (relapsed/refractory) were clearly distinct and should be included in the interpretation of all trials. These results should help informing the design of forthcoming studies in relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma.