bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR-301b-3p promotes breast cancer development through inhibiting the expression of transforming growth factor-beta receptor 2
Authors: Lou Jian , Liu Xueni , Xie Yanru , Wu Minhua , Mao Weibo , Ying Xiaozhen
Published: November 2024

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is a serious health threat to the patients. The present work explored the mechanism of miR-301b-3p and transforming growth factor-beta receptor 2 (TGFBR2 ) in affecting BC progression.

Methods

The miR-301b-3p-inhibitor and si-TGFBR2 solution were added to the DEME/F12 medium to culture the BC and normal breast epithelial cell lines to prepare negative control, miR-301b-3p-IN and miR-301b-3p-IN+si-TGFBR2 in the two types of cell lines. The relative expression of target genes and the interference effect were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT- PCR). Cell viability was detected applying cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Transwell and wound healing assay were conducted to evaluate the invasion and migration of BC cells after miR-301b-3p inhibition. Additionally, cell apoptosis and the expression STAT protein were measured by flow cytometry and Western blot, respectively

Results

The qRT-PCR results showed that miR-301b-3p were high-expressed but the level of TGFBR2 was significantly inhibited in BC cells. The miR-301b-3p-inhibitor significantly downregulated the expression of miR-301b-3p and upregulated that of TGFBR2. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR-301b-3p suppressed the cell viability, invasion, and migration of BC cells, which, however, were restored by the inhibition of TGFBR2. MiR-301b-3p conferred anti-apoptosis ability to BC cells, while TGFBR2 promoted apoptosis of BC cells through producing an antagonistic effect with miR-301b-3p. We found that miR-301b-3p played a crucial role in the phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT3 to promote BC progression.

Conclusion

The present findings demonstrated that miR-301b-3p played a crucial role in promoting BC cell growth, invasion and migration and anti-apoptosis, and that targeting TGFBR2 could inhibit the tumor-promoting effect of miR-301b-3p.
Long-term alfalfa planting mediates the coupling of soil water and organic carbon storage in a semi-arid area of the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Zhou Xiaoping , Shen Yan , Ma Hongbin , Fu Bingzhe , Lan Jian
Published: November 2024

The key to restoring arid and semi-arid ecosystems is maintaining soil water and organic carbon contents. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a high-yield perennial forage crop and performs ecological functions as a drought-resistance leguminous herb. It has been widely planted for reconstruction of degraded soils in the Loess Plateau in northwestern China, but long-term planting may affect soil carbon–water coupling and lead to crop yield reduction. To maximize the benefits of reconstructed grassland, this study explored the couplings of soil water, organic carbon, and alfalfa productivity along a reconstruction chronosequence in a semi-arid area of the Loess Plateau. Space-for-time substitution approach was used to select different-aged stands of reconstructed grassland (1, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30 years old). Alfalfa above-ground biomass (AGB), soil water storage (SWS), organic carbon storage (SOCS), and carbon–water coupling coordination degree (D) were measured in the 0–100 cm soil profile. Alfalfa AGB reached a peak in the 7th year, and the degradation began in the 10th year. Both SWS and SOCS varied nonlinearly with stand age. The greatest loss of SWS occurred in the 15th year (80–100 cm depth), whereas the largest increase of SOCS occurred in the 30th year (0–20 cm depth). There was a negative feedback relationship between AGB and SWS over the 30-year study period (Pearson r = −0.835, P = 0.098). AGB and SOCS initially showed a trade-off within the first 10 years (Pearson r = −0.7431, P = 0.2569), in contrast to their positive feedback in the 20–30th years (Pearson r = 0.9978, P = 0.0421). A decoupling between SWS and SOCS (D < 0.6) was observed after 12 years of alfalfa planting. For agricultural production, a greater supply of water and organic fertilizer is required from the 7th year of alfalfa planting, and reseeding may be needed around the 10th year to prolong the life of alfalfa community. Alfalfa should be planted for no more than 12 consecutive years in the study area for ecological protection.
Approaches for Genetic Analysis of Chickpea Genotypes under Late Sown Condition
Authors: Babbar Anita , Kujur M. J. , Patel Monika , Goyal Vinod , Bajiya Babita
Published: November 2024

Investigation of the genetic potential of chickpeas is crucial in order to achieve durable and high-yielding genotypes. The goal of this study is to identify the genetic potential and personality traits associated. Evaluation of thirty-six desi genotypes of chickpea under late sown condition revealed that substantial degree of variation was present, while three traits viz., Leaf pattern, flower colour, seed shape and plant pigmentation were found monomorphic, whereas foliage colour, seed surface were dimorphic,polymorphic traits were noted in leaflet size, plant growth habit, plant height, seed colouring, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity. Magnitude of genotypic coefficient ofvariations, high heritability along with high genetic advance as percentage of mean recorded forharvest index, number of seeds per plant, number of pods per plant and number of effective pods per plant.Correlation and path analysis revealed biological yield, 100 seed weight, seed per plant, harvest Index and plant height are the mostimportant characters,while imparting selection as these exhibited strong association and maximum positive direct effects on seed yield per plant.Intra cluster D2 values showed that most diverse genotypes were Phule G13110 and PG 0104, hybridization program between these genotypes may generate desirable sergeants for various yield attributing traits. Genotypes GL 12021, PG 158, PG 0104, JG 24, H 12-62, IPC 2010-134, GNG 2261, GL29098, BG 3067, IPC 2012-98, Phule G13110 and RVSSG 38 were present in more than one PCs hence contributed maximum towards yield and can be used in various breeding programmes for yield improvement under late sown condition.
Neuroscientific Approaches to Understanding Adolescent Susceptibility to Substance Abuse
Authors: ADINDU Kelechi Nelson , AJAH Ogbonnaya Nwagwu , AYOWALE Komolafe Samuel , ONOCHIE Emeka Darlington , ENEMUO Nkechi Rita , OKORIE Chukwuka David
Published: November 2024

Adolescence is a pivotal developmental stage characterised by significant neurobiological changes that heighten susceptibility to substance abuse. This period is marked by the maturation of the brain regions responsible for decision-making and impulse control, alongside an increased sensitivity to rewards driven by dopaminergic pathways. This review aimed to understand adolescent susceptibility to substance abuse using a neuroscientific approach. In line with best practices, data were collected from a variety reliable source to ensure a comprehensive view of the topic. Research studies on adolescent neurodevelopment have contributed to a broader understanding of the physiological and psychological factors at play during adolescence, while grey literature, including expert interviews and focused group discussions, has offered practical insights from frontline professionals, such as psychologists, social workers, and healthcare providers, who deal directly with adolescent substance use. These results demonstrate that the relationship between genetic factors and environmental conditions, such as stress and trauma, intensifies this vulnerability, thereby heightening the likelihood of individuals participating in risky behaviours. This review examines the neuroscientific foundations of substance use during adolescence, highlighting the critical role of timely interventions that utilize neuroplasticity to enhance resilience and reduce risk. By integrating cognitive training and behavioural therapies into public health initiatives, adolescents' cognitive control mechanisms and their propensity for substance abuse can be reduced.
Detection of H. pylori from Stool Samples of Patients Attending a Government Hospital in Port-Harcourt Using Antigenic Screening and Culture-Based Techniques
Authors: O. O. Maureen, , N. P. Akani, , T. Sampson,
Published: November 2024

Background: Helicobacter pylori is well-known among other bacteria causing ulcers, stomach cancer and other forms of gastrointestinal infections in developing countries.
Aim: This research was designed to investigate the prevalence of H. pylori infection among patients attending a Government Hospital in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria.
Methodology: One hundred and five (105) stool samples of individuals comprising of 48 males and 57 females were studied. The samples were investigated for H. pylori using H. pylori stool antigen (HpSA) test kit. In addition, culture-based isolation was done using Columbia agar plus 10%                horse blood, supplemented with antibiotics (amphotericin B, vancomycin, trimethoprim and ceftazidime).
Results: Out of 105 samples screened, 56 (53.3%) tested positive for both antigenic screening and culture-based techniques while 49 (46.7%) tested negative for both. Positive isolates were phenotypically characterized by colony morphology, Gram stain, and biochemical reactions and a total of 19 isolates were suspected to be H. pylori. The result indicated that H. pylori detection was relatively low in male (21.9%) compared to female (31.4%) using antigenic screening. However, the culture-based technique yielded low recovery in male (2.9%) compared to female (4.7%), making the detection of infection high among the female than the male. Age group prevalence increased with age, recording infections within age group ≥31 (20.0%) followed by 26-30, (12.3%) and lowest in age group 21-25 (10.5%) and below using antigenic screening. while in culture-based technique, age group 26-30, (3.8%) followed by ≥31 (3.8%) yielding low recovery, while age group 21-25 and below had 0 recovery. There was no significant difference (P˃0.05) among the different genders and age groups sampled
Conclusion: This study revealed a high level of H.  pylori infection among the female than the male population sampled. To reduce the detection rates, regular screening, treatment and public health awareness campaign should be developed for the control, elimination and prevention of H.  pylori infection.
Bacterial tRNase–Based Gene Therapy with Poly(β‐Amino Ester) Nanoparticles for Suppressing Melanoma Tumor Growth and Relapse
Authors: Min Sungjin , Jin Yoonhee , Hou Chen Yuan , Kim Jayoung , Green Jordan J. , Kang Taek Jin , Cho Seung‐Woo
Published: June 2018

Here, a novel anticancer gene therapy with a bacterial tRNase gene, colicin D or virulence associated protein C (VapC), is suggested using biodegradable polymeric nanoparticles, such as poly(β‐amino esters) (PBAEs) as carriers. These genes are meticulously selected, aiming at inhibiting translation in the recipients by hydrolyzing specific tRNA species. In terms of nanoparticles, out of 9 PBAE formulations, a leading polymer, (polyethylene oxide)4‐bis‐amine end‐capped poly(1,4‐butanediol diacrylate‐co‐5‐amino‐1‐pentanol) (B4S5E5), is identified that displays higher gene delivery efficacy to cancer cells compared with the leading commercial reagent Lipofectamine 2000. Interestingly, the B4S5E5 PBAE nanoparticles complexed with colicin D or VapC plasmid DNA induce significant toxicity highly specific to cancer cells by triggering apoptosis. In contrast, the PBAE nanoparticles do not induce these cytotoxic effects in noncancerous cells. In a mouse melanoma model of grafted murine B16‐F10 cells, it is demonstrated that treatment with PBAE nanoparticles complexed with these tRNase genes significantly reduces tumor growth rate and delays tumor relapse. Moreover, increased stability of PBAE by PEGylation further enhances the therapeutic effect of tRNase gene treatment and improves survival of animals. This study highlights a nonviral gene therapy that is highly promising for the treatment of cancer.
Photoelectric Detectors Based on Inorganic p‐Type Semiconductor Materials
Authors: Teng Feng , Hu Kai , Ouyang Weixin , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: June 2018

Photoelectric detectors are the central part of modern photodetection systems with numerous commercial and scientific applications. p‐Type semiconductor materials play important roles in optoelectronic devices. Photodetectors based on p‐type semiconductor materials have attracted a great deal of attention in recent years because of their unique properties. Here, a comprehensive summary of the recent progress mainly on photodetectors based on inorganic p‐type semiconductor materials is presented. Various structures, including photoconductors, phototransistors, homojunctions, heterojunctions, p–i–n junctions, and metal–semiconductor junctions of photodetectors based on inorganic p‐type semiconductor materials, are discussed and summarized. Perspectives and an outlook, highlighting the promising future directions of this research field, are also given.
Holographic Fabrication of 3D Nanostructures
Authors: Jeon Taeyoon , Kim Dong‐Ho , Park Sung‐Gyu
Published: June 2018

In this paper, the authors review the optical principles underlying the fabrication of 3D periodic nanostructures prepared using holographic lithography (HL) as well as their applications toward chemical sensors and energy storage devices using 3D functional nanomaterials. HL is potentially useful for the simple and rapid fabrication of defect‐free large‐area periodic nanostructures with various structural geometries. The use of optical elements, such as well‐designed prisms and diffraction gratings, improves the reproducibility of the manufacturing process by simplifying complicated optical setups. 3D functional nanostructures, including semiconductor and metallic nanomaterials, are useful in highly sensitive photonic crystals and plasmonic sensors, and high‐performance 3D electrodes for use in energy production and storage devices.
Current Status of Outdoor Lifetime Testing of Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Zhang Yiwei , Samuel Ifor D. W. , Wang Tao , Lidzey David G.
Published: June 2018

Performance degradation is one of the key obstacles limiting the commercial application of organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices. The assessment of OPV stability and lifetime are usually based on simulated degradation experiments conducted under indoor conditions, whereas photovoltaic devices experience different environmental conditions under outdoor operation. Besides the intrinsic degradation of OPV devices due to the evolution of optoelectronic and morphological structure during long‐term operation, outdoor environmental changes can impose extra stresses and accelerate the degradation of OPV modules. Although outdoor studies on long‐term OPV stability are restricted by the long data collection times, they provide direct information on OPV stability under mixed degradation stresses and are therefore invaluable from the point of view of both research and practical application. Here, an overview of the current status of outdoor lifetime studies of OPVs is provided. After a summary of device lifetime extrapolated from indoor studies, outdoor lifetime testing platforms are introduced and the operational lifetime of various OPV devices are reviewed. The influence of climate and weather parameters on device performance and burn‐in phenomena observed during the degradation of OPVs is then discussed. Finally, an outlook and directions for future research in this field are suggested.
Nanostructured Fused Pyrrole Thin Films: Encoding Nano “Bits” with Temporary Remanence
Authors: Canjeevaram Balasubramanyam Ram Kumar , Kandjani Ahmad E. , Jones Lathe A. , Periasamy Selvakannan R. , Wong Sherman , Narayan Ramanuj , Bhargava Suresh K. , Ippolito Samuel J. , Basak Pratyay
Published: June 2018

A comprehensive understanding of resistive switching phenomenon and its dependence on molecular structure is imperative for enhancing the consistency and reliability of organic resistive memory (ORM) devices. Here, the efforts are directed to establish a premise for providing detailed insights into the molecular property, thin film assembly, and digital memory performance of a 1,4‐dihydropyrrolo[3,2‐b]pyrrole (DHPP) derivative. The fabricated devices display switching characteristics with an ION/OFF ratio of ≈105, howbeit, with a “temporary remanence” of ≈2 min. The ON state can be sustained under a constant electrical duress of −1 V and can be repeatedly reprogrammed for >110 cycles. Conductive atomic force microscope (C‐AFM) studies demonstrate that the thin film can be electrically written to a “0” or “1” state under extremely low compliance currents of ±250 pA with an appreciable ON/OFF ratio of 102. Conservative estimates for the switching area of ≈150 nm2 with energy as low as 15 fJ to induce a switching event underscore the possibility of nanoscale data storage with high areal density. The role of charge transfer interactions during the OFF to ON transitions and the origin of volatile memory behaviour are further elucidated in conjunction with electrochemical impedance studies (EIS) and theoretical simulations.
Bioorthogonal Conjugation Directed by a Sugar‐Sorting Pathway for Continual Tracking of Stressed Organelles
Authors: Xue Zhongwei , Zhang Enkang , Liu Jian , Han Jiahuai , Han Shoufa
Published: June 2018

Selective and continuous tracking of dynamic organelles is crucial for modern biology. We herein report a ship‐in‐a‐bottle strategy for tagging lysosomes by a strain‐promoted azide–alkyne cycloaddition to couple a pH sensor (RC) with mannose‐6‐carboxylate (M6C) actively transported into lysosomes through cell sorting. In contrast to classical acidotropic sensors, which are prone to dissipate from lysosomes, M6C‐RC formed in situ is stably trapped in lysosomes without resort to lysosomal acidity and exhibits “always‐on” blue fluorescence to pinpoint lysosomes and red‐to‐blue fluorescence ratios indicative of the lysosomal pH value. These advantages enable tracking of stressed lysosomes, and necrosis to be differentiated from apoptosis on the basis of lysosomal pH changes. The cell‐sorting‐mediated bioorthogonal tagging strategy offers a new route to track stressed organelles with disrupted physiological organelle–probe affinity.
Core–Shell Crystals of Porous Organic Cages
Authors: Jiang Shan , Du Yi , Marcello Marco , Corcoran Edward W. , Calabro David C. , Chong Samantha Y. , Chen Linjiang , Clowes Rob , Hasell Tom , Cooper Andrew I.
Published: June 2018

The first examples of core–shell porous molecular crystals are described. The physical properties of the core–shell crystals, such as surface hydrophobicity, CO2 /CH4 selectivity, are controlled by the chemical composition of the shell. This shows that porous core–shell molecular crystals can exhibit synergistic properties that out‐perform materials built from the individual, constituent molecules.
BSA‐IrO2: Catalase‐like Nanoparticles with High Photothermal Conversion Efficiency and a High X‐ray Absorption Coefficient for Anti‐inflammation and Antitumor Theranostics
Authors: Zhen Wenyao , Liu Yang , Lin Lin , Bai Jing , Jia Xiaodan , Tian Huayu , Jiang Xiue
Published: June 2018

Intrinsically integrating precise diagnosis, effective therapy, and self‐anti‐inflammatory action into a single nanoparticle is attractive for tumor treatment and future clinical application, but still remains a great challenge. In this study, bovine serum albumin–iridium oxide nanoparticles (BSA‐IrO2 NPs) with extraordinary photothermal conversion efficiency, good photocatalytic activity, and a high X‐ray absorption coefficient were prepared through one‐step biomineralization. The nanoparticles allow tumor phototherapy and simultaneous photoacoustic/thermal imaging and computed tomography. More importantly, BSA‐IrO2 NPs can also act as a catalase to protect normal cells against H2O2‐induced reactive oxygen pressure and inflammation while significantly enhancing photoacoustic imaging through microbubble‐based inertial cavitation. These remarkable features may open up the exploration iridium‐based nanomaterials in theranostics.
Introducing Fe2+ into Nickel–Iron Layered Double Hydroxide: Local Structure Modulated Water Oxidation Activity
Authors: Cai Zhao , Zhou Daojin , Wang Maoyu , Bak Seong‐Min , Wu Yueshen , Wu Zishan , Tian Yang , Xiong Xuya , Li Yaping , Liu Wen , Siahrostami Samira , Kuang Yun , Yang Xiao‐Qing , Duan Haohong , Feng Zhenxing , Wang Hailiang , Sun Xiaoming
Published: June 2018

Exploring materials with regulated local structures and understanding how the atomic motifs govern the reactivity and durability of catalysts are a critical challenge for designing advanced catalysts. Herein we report the tuning of the local atomic structure of nickel–iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe‐LDHs) by partially substituting Ni2+ with Fe2+ to introduce Fe‐O‐Fe moieties. These Fe2+‐containing NiFe‐LDHs exhibit enhanced oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity with an ultralow overpotential of 195 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2, which is among the best OER catalytic performance to date. In‐situ X‐ray absorption, Raman, and electrochemical analysis jointly reveal that the Fe‐O‐Fe motifs could stabilize high‐valent metal sites at low overpotentials, thereby enhancing the OER activity. These results reveal the importance of tuning the local atomic structure for designing high efficiency electrocatalysts.
A Two‐Dimensional Polymer Synthesized at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Müller Vivian , Hinaut Antoine , Moradi Mina , Baljozovic Milos , Jung Thomas A. , Shahgaldian Patrick , Möhwald Helmuth , Hofer Gregor , Kröger Martin , King Benjamin T. , Meyer Ernst , Glatzel Thilo , Schlüter A. Dieter
Published: June 2018

A trifunctional, partially fluorinated anthracene‐substituted triptycene monomer was spread at an air/water interface into a monolayer, which was transformed into a long‐range‐ordered 2D polymer by irradiation with a standard UV lamp. The polymer was analyzed by Brewster angle microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy measurements, and non‐contact atomic force microscopy, which confirmed the generation of a network structure with lattice parameters that are virtually identical to a structural model network based on X‐ray diffractometry of a closely related 2D polymer. The nc‐AFM images highlight the long‐range order over areas of at least 300×300 nm2. As required for a 2D polymer, the pore sizes are monodisperse, except for the regions where the network is somewhat stretched because it spans over protrusions. Together with a previous report on the nature of the cross‐links in this network, the structural information provided herein leaves no doubt that a 2D polymer has been synthesized under ambient conditions at an air/water interface.
Reaktionen von Gruppe‐4‐Metallocen‐Komplexen des Bis(trimethylsilyl)acetylens mit Nitrilen und Isonitrilen
Authors: Rosenthal U.
Published: June 2018

Dieser Aufsatz fasst Reaktionen von Gruppe‐4‐Metallocen‐Komplexen des Bis(trimethylsilyl)acetylens mit Nitrilen und Isonitrilen zusammen. Ausgewählte Beispiele von Reaktionen der Gruppe‐4‐Metallocen‐Komplexe mit Alkinen des Typs Cp′2M(η2‐Me3SiC2SiMe3) mit Nitrilen und Isonitrilen werden beschrieben, die dem generellen L‐M‐S‐Prinzip folgen, wonach stöchiometrische und katalytische Reaktionen durch die Liganden L, die Metalle M und die Substrat‐Substituenten S beeinflusst werden. Die Einflüsse dieser Parameter werden für verschiedene M/L/S‐Kombinationen hervorgehoben. Die Basisreaktionen mit Nitrilen sowie in einigen Fällen auch Isonitrilen sind im Detail untersucht und hier summiert worden. Ausgewählte Folgereaktionen der erhaltenen Produkte, die wiederum von L, M und S abhängen, werden gezeigt. Besonders interessant ist hier die Bildung von ein‐ und mehrkernigen 1‐Metalla‐2,5‐diazacyclopenta‐2,4‐dienen, mit großem Potenzial für Anwendungen bei der Synthese komplexer Heterocyclen.
De Novo Left‐Handed Synthetic Peptidomimetic Foldamers
Authors: She Fengyu , Teng Peng , Peguero‐Tejada Alfredo , Wang Minghui , Ma Ning , Odom Timothy , Zhou Mi , Gjonaj Erald , Wojtas Lukasz , van der Vaart Arjan , Cai Jianfeng
Published: June 2018

The development of peptidomimetic helical foldamers with a wide repertoire of functions is of significant interest. Herein, we report the X‐ray crystal structures of a series of homogeneous l‐sulfono‐γ‐AA foldamers and elucidate their folding conformation at the atomic level. Single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography revealed that this class of oligomers fold into unprecedented dragon‐boat‐shaped and unexpected left‐handed helices, which are stabilized by the 14‐hydrogen‐bonding pattern present in all sequences. These l‐sulfono‐γ‐AApeptides have a helical pitch of 5.1 Å and exactly four side chains per turn, and the side chains lie perfectly on top of each other along the helical axis. 2D NMR spectroscopy, computational simulations, and CD studies support the folding conformation in solution. Our results provide a structural basis at the atomic level for the design of novel biomimetics with a precise arrangement of functional groups in three dimensions.
Magnetoluminescence in a Photostable, Brightly Luminescent Organic Radical in a Rigid Environment
Authors: Kimura Shun , Kusamoto Tetsuro , Kimura Shojiro , Kato Ken , Teki Yoshio , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: June 2018

We investigated the emission properties of a photostable luminescent organic radical, (3,5‐dichloro‐4‐pyridyl)bis(2,4,6‐trichlorophenyl)methyl radical (PyBTM), doped into host molecular crystals. The 0.05 wt %‐doped crystals displayed luminescence attributed to a PyBTM monomer with a room‐temperature emission quantum yield of 89 %, which is exceptionally high among organic radicals. The 10 wt %‐doped crystals exhibited both PyBTM monomer and excimer‐centered emission bands, and the intensity ratio of these two bands was modulated drastically by applying a magnetic field of up to 18 T at 4.2 K. This is the first observation of a magnetic field affecting the luminescence of organic radicals, and we also proposed a mechanism for this effect.
Mechanochemical Rhodium(III)‐ and Gold(I)‐Catalyzed C−H Bond Alkynylations of Indoles under Solventless Conditions in Mixer Mills
Authors: Hermann Gary N. , Unruh Marvin T. , Jung Se‐Hyeong , Krings Maik , Bolm Carsten
Published: June 2018

Mechanochemical activations in RhIII‐ and AuI‐catalyzed C−H alkynylations lead selectively to C2‐ and C3‐alkynylated indoles. The processes show excellent functional group tolerance, do not require additional heating and proceed under solventless conditions. Compared to solvent‐based standard protocols, the reaction times are shorter and the catalyst quantities lower resulting in high product yields under ambient atmosphere in mixer mills.
Maculatic Acids—Sex Attractant Pheromone Components of Bald‐Faced Hornets
Authors: Ren Weiwu , Gries Regine , McCaughey Catherine , Derstine Nathan , Alamsetti Santosh K. , Kurita Kenji L. , Tu Lorna , Linington Roger G. , Britton Robert , Gries Gerhard
Published: June 2018

Yellowjackets in the genera Vespula and Dolichovespula are prevalent eusocial insects of great ecological and economic significance, but the chemical signals of their sexual communication systems have defied structural elucidation. Herein, we report the identification of sex attractant pheromone components of virgin bald‐faced hornet queens (Dolichovespula maculata). We analyzed body surface extracts of queens by coupled gas chromatographic–electroantennographic detection (GC‐EAD), isolated the compounds that elicited responses from male antennae by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and identified these components by GC mass spectrometry (MS), HPLC‐MS, and NMR spectroscopy. In laboratory olfactometer experiments, synthetic (2Z,7E)‐3,7‐dimethyldeca‐2,7‐diendioic acid (termed here maculatic acid A) and (2Z,7E)‐10‐methoxy‐3,7‐dimethyldeca‐10‐oxo‐deca‐2,7‐dienoic acid (termed here maculatic acid C) in binary combination significantly attracted bald‐faced hornet males. These are the first sex attractant pheromone components identified in yellowjackets.
Molecular Recognition of the Hybrid‐2 Human Telomeric G‐Quadruplex by Epiberberine: Insights into Conversion of Telomeric G‐Quadruplex Structures
Authors: Lin Clement , Wu Guanhui , Wang Kaibo , Onel Buket , Sakai Saburo , Shao Yong , Yang Danzhou
Published: June 2018

Human telomeres can form DNA G‐quadruplex (G4), an attractive target for anticancer drugs. Human telomeric G4s bear inherent structure polymorphism, challenging for understanding specific recognition by ligands or proteins. Protoberberines are medicinal natural‐products known to stabilize telomeric G4s and inhibit telomerase. Here we report epiberberine (EPI) specifically recognizes the hybrid‐2 telomeric G4 predominant in physiologically relevant K+ solution and converts other telomeric G4 forms to hybrid‐2, the first such example reported. Our NMR structure in K+ solution shows EPI binding induces extensive rearrangement of the previously disordered 5′‐flanking and loop segments to form an unprecedented four‐layer binding pocket specific to the hybrid‐2 telomeric G4; EPI recruits the (−1) adenine to form a “quasi‐triad” intercalated between the external tetrad and a T:T:A triad, capped by a T:T base pair. Our study provides structural basis for small‐molecule drug design targeting the human telomeric G4.
An Efficient, Visible‐Light‐Driven, Hydrogen Evolution Catalyst NiS/ZnxCd1−xS Nanocrystal Derived from a Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Zhao Xiuxia , Feng Jianrui , Liu Jing , Shi Wei , Yang Guangming , Wang Gui‐Chang , Cheng Peng
Published: June 2018

Photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production using sustainable sunlight is a promising alternative to industrial hydrogen production. However, the scarcity of highly active, recyclable, inexpensive photocatalysts impedes the development of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) schemes. Herein, a metal–organic framework (MOF)‐template strategy was developed to prepare non‐noble metal co‐catalyst/solid solution heterojunction NiS/ZnxCd1−xS with superior photocatalytic HER activity. By adjusting the doping metal concentration in MOFs, the chemical compositions and band gaps of the heterojunctions can be fine‐tuned, and the light absorption capacity and photocatalytic activity were further optimized. NiS/Zn0.5Cd0.5S exhibits an optimal HER rate of 16.78 mmol g−1 h−1 and high stability and recyclability under visible‐light irradiation (λ>420 nm). Detailed characterizations and in‐depth DFT calculations reveal the relationship between the heterojunction and photocatalytic activity and confirm the importance of NiS in accelerating the water dissociation kinetics, which is a crucial factor for photocatalytic HER.
A Catalytic Oxidative Quinone Heterofunctionalization Method: Synthesis of Strongylophorine‐26
Authors: Yu Wanwan , Hjerrild Per , Jacobsen Kristian M. , Tobiesen Henriette N. , Clemmensen Line , Poulsen Thomas B.
Published: June 2018

The preparation of heteroatom‐substituted p‐quinones is ideally performed by direct addition of a nucleophile followed by in situ reoxidation. Albeit an appealing strategy, the reactivity of the p‐quinone moiety is not easily tamed and no broadly applicable method for heteroatom functionalization exists. Shown herein is that Co(OAc)2 and Mn(OAc)3⋅2 H2O act as powerful catalysts for oxidative p‐quinone functionalization with a collection of O, N, and S nucleophiles, using oxygen as the terminal oxidant. Preliminary mechanistic observations and the first synthesis of the cytotoxic natural product strongylophorine‐26 is presented.
The Narcissism of Minor Differences as Distance Regulators in Core Intimacy Problems
Authors: Israelstam Ken
Published: June 2018

Freud's narcissism of minor differences is explored in the context of couple therapy. The paper attempts to highlight how these minor differences manifest themselves in the development of major relationship crises. In particular an attempt is made to illustrate how these minor differences come to act as distance regulators in the delicate intimacy dance of the too‐near, too‐far dynamic.
Oxidative acylation of α,α‐diarylallylic alcohols: Synthesis of 1,2,4‐triarylbutane‐1,4‐diones
Authors: Li Yong , Leng Yuting , Wang Shiwei , Gao Yuhui , Lv Huiyan , Chang Junbiao , Wu Yusheng , Wu Yangjie
Published: June 2018

A metal‐free mediated oxidative acylation of α,α‐diarylallylic alcohols with simple aromatic aldehydes for the synthesis of 1,2,4‐triphenylbutane‐1,4‐diones is presented. In the presence of TBPB (tert‐butyl peroxybenzoate), desired products were obtained in good to excellent yields for 28 examples. This protocol features high regioselectivity, wide functional group tolerance and atom economy.
Genetic connectivity supports recovery of gorgonian populations affected by climate change
Authors: Padrón Mariana , Costantini Federica , Bramanti Lorenzo , Guizien Katell , Abbiati Marco
Published: June 2018

Climate‐induced threats are increasingly affecting marine populations worldwide. In the last few decades, several gorgonian species have been affected by mass mortality events in the north‐west Mediterranean, putatively linked to local sea temperature increases during heatwaves. For many benthic sessile species, recovery after disturbances depends upon larval supply shaping the connections among populations.

In the Ligurian Sea, genetic analyses showed that some Paramuricea clavata populations recovered after mass mortality events; however, the patterns of connectivity, and the potential role of migration in supporting the recovery of the populations of P. clavata, across its distribution range within the Ligurian Sea are still unknown.

In this study, the population genetic structure and migration patterns of P. clavata populations have been analysed across seven sites in the Ligurian Sea, some of which have been affected by mass mortality events.

Evidence of a population bottleneck was found in most of the populations studied. Significant genetic differentiation was found among P. clavata populations, reflecting habitat fragmentation at a regional scale, except for two populations found 20 km apart. Continuing gene flow between distant populations was also revealed. Empirical data suggest that gene flow among populations may have contributed to support their recovery from mass mortality events.

The study identified populations in the central part of the Ligurian Sea that can be strategic for the regional persistence of the species. These findings highlight that the preservation of key populations could maintain connectivity and gene flow in the metapopulation, and increase the resilience of the species.
Survival of the fittest: Explanations for gadoid imbalance in heavily fished seas
Authors: Elliott Sophie A.M. , Allan Brooke A. , Turrell William R. , Heath Michael R. , Bailey David M.
Published: June 2018

Anthropogenic activities have caused the degradation of the world's ecosystems, accelerating the loss of biodiversity. In marine ecosystems, fishing has had strong impacts on fish populations and their habitats; however, not all species have responded equally to fishing pressure.

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), and whiting (Merlangius merlangus) are of high commercial value throughout the North Atlantic. Despite having relatively similar life cycles, the state of stocks of these three species varies enormously, with whiting faring better than cod. Within the Firth of Clyde (south‐west Scotland), this imbalance is especially accentuated, where small whiting now make up the greater proportion of the biomass.

In this study, cod, haddock, and whiting recruitment to coastal areas, growth, and bait attraction were explored within a marine protected area (MPA) in the Firth of Clyde. Over the course of the summers of 2013 and 2014, whiting and haddock arrived at coastal areas earlier than cod, and grew more quickly. Cod were on average the smallest gadoid observed, and whiting the largest. Whiting also had more predominant scavenging behaviour.

These results, in combination with other life‐history traits, indicate that whiting may be at a competitive advantage over cod, and this may partly explain the imbalance of gadoids in the Firth of Clyde. This study highlights the importance of considering life‐history differences in multi‐species fisheries management, and how appropriately managed MPAs could help to restore fish population and assemblage structure.
Disability and quality of life 20 years after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Andelic Nada , Howe Emilie I. , Hellstrøm Torgeir , Sanchez Maria Fernandez , Lu Juan , Løvstad Marianne , Røe Cecilie
Published: June 2018

Objectives

The study describes functional outcomes and health‐related quality of life (HRQL) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) 20 years postinjury.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐four survivors who acquired moderate and severe TBI during 1995–1996 were followed 10 and 20 years postinjury. Outcomes were Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSE), Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), and SF‐36 questionnaire (SF‐36). Multiple regressions were performed to examine the relationship between follow‐up measurements, controlling for baseline demographics and injury severity.

Results

There were no significant differences in baseline age and civil status between moderate and severe TBI, but patients with severe injury had significantly lower employment rates (p = 0.05). Mean age at 20‐years follow‐up was 50.8 (SD 11.4) years, and 73% were males. Most patients showed good recovery (52%) or moderate disability (43%). Disability levels remained stable between and within severity groups from 10 to 20 years. Community integration including social integration improved from 10 to 20 years (p = 0.01 and p = 0.005, respectively). HRQL remained stable, except for subscales Bodily Pain and Role Emotional (p = 0.02 and p = 0.06). Depression at 10 years and females were associated with poorer mental health, while productive activity at 10 years indicated better physical and mental health at 20 years postinjury, respectively.

Conclusions

Functional limitations persist even decades after moderate and severe TBI, with poorer prognosis for females and persons who were depressed at the 10‐year follow‐up. Development and evaluation of targeted long‐term follow‐up programs and access to rehabilitation services for these groups should be highlighted. Improved community integration despite stable functional limitations draws attention to long‐term adaptation to adversity and illness.
Ensure fundraising efforts comply with rules, regs
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: June 2018

For better or worse, fundraising has become an essential part of the operation of many college athletics departments. Although some schools have the benefit of significant revenue streams from TV and digital rights agreements, many other schools struggle on an annual basis to fully fund the necessary support and operations of each team. Other schools find themselves somewhere in the middle, reliant in large part on institutional support, while still needing to generate outside revenue to maintain the current level of the athletics program. Although corporate sponsorships and donor relationships usually become a mainstay of these efforts, many schools still rely on team‐ and coach‐based fundraising initiatives to reach certain monetary goals to support their respective programs.
Student‐athletes at increased risk for opioid abuse, study reveals
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2018

New research reveals yet another pressing reason to keep a closer eye on student‐athletes who have endured injuries: They're statistically more likely to abuse opioids.
Turn losing situation into academic, athletic success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2018

When Ivan Marquez first arrived on the scene of the Concordia College New York athletics department, he knew he had his work cut out for him. As the school's new athletics director in 1995, he encountered “a disheveled organization and physical plant clearly exhibiting the results of not only being underfunded by industry standards, but perceived as underfunded, thus, treated as a nuisance and expected to fail, both by internal and external constituencies,” Marquez said.
First wave of 9–10‐year‐olds in massive ABCD study recruited
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2018

The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study will recruit more than 11,000 young people ages 9 and 10, and follow them for 10 years to find out how children's brains develop, using brain scans and much monitoring. So far, almost half of the samples have been recruited at 21 study sites across the country for the project, which started out as the Collaborative Research on Addiction at NIH [National Institutes of Health] study. Originally involving only the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse, and the National Cancer Institute, other collaborators in the federal government became interested, said Terry Jernigan, Ph.D., co‐director of the coordinating center for the study. Along with other ABCD researchers, she discussed how the study is going at the American Psychiatric Association's annual meeting in New York City in May.
Family‐of‐Origin Influence on Career Thoughts
Authors: Lustig Daniel , Xu Yonghong
Published: June 2018

The family can exert an important influence on career decision making. This study investigated the impact of adaptability and cohesion in family‐of‐origin relationships on dysfunctional career thoughts in 269 college students (221 women, 48 men). The Career Thoughts Inventory and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scales–IV were used to assess family dynamics and dysfunctional career thoughts. The study addressed the following research question: What is the impact of family cohesion and adaptability in the participant's family of origin on dysfunctional career thoughts, specifically decision‐making confusion, commitment anxiety, and external conflict? Results revealed that higher levels of family cohesion were associated with lower levels of decision‐making confusion, commitment anxiety, and external conflict and that higher levels of family adaptability were associated with lower levels of external conflict.
Reaction Mechanisms of Sodium‐Ion Batteries under Various Charge and Discharge Conditions in a Three‐Electrode Setup
Authors: Song Xiaona , Zhou Xunfu , Zhou Yanxue , Deng Yaoming , Meng Tao , Gao Aimei , Nan Junmin , Shu Dong , Yi Fenyun
Published: June 2018

Charge‐discharge reaction mechanisms of sodium‐ion batteries under various condition are studied by using a three‐electrode setup of a pouch‐type sodium‐ion battery. The sodium‐ion battery is constructed by using cost‐effective ternary layered Na0.76Ni0.3Fe0.4Mn0.3O2 and commercial hard carbon as the cathode and anode materials, respectively, and 1.0 M NaPF6 in mixed carbonate solvent as the electrolyte. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images show that an apparent solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) film is formed on anode material surface during the formation (pre‐charging) process, and the potentials for the SEI film formation of the solvents (ethylene carbonate and ethylene carbonate) and the additive (fluorinated ethylene carbonate) in the electrolyte are 2.04 and 2.79 V, respectively. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results demonstrate that, during charge, the crystal structure of cathode material changes significantly with the deintercalation of Na+. When the battery is charged to 5.0 V, the diffraction peak corresponding to the (002) plane disappears, as Na+ is further deintercalated, and the structure changes from the hexagonal phase to the monoclinic phase, causing the rapid degradation of the cycle performance. When the battery is overdischarged to 0 V, the EIS results and TEM images show that the SEI film is destroyed completely, and the cycle life performance is significantly deteriorated.
A Switch from Mechanistic Competition Mediated by a Combination of Temperature and Concentration Effects in the Oxidation Reaction of [FeII(N4Py/TPA)](OTf)2
Authors: Tseng Tzu‐Hsien , Chen Peter Ping‐Yu
Published: June 2018

The formation of [(N4Py)FeIV=O]2+ species was accomplished by the reaction of [FeII(N4Py)]2+ with 20 equivalents of tBuO2H (TBHP, 70 % in H2O). The temperature, [FeII(N4Py)]2+‐concentration and H2O‐concentration in anhydrous TBHP (5.5 m in decane) dependences of its yields and rates were analyzed to indicate that the proton migration from [(N4Py)FeII‐HOOtBu]2+ to [(N4Py)FeII‐OO⊕HtBu]2+ is the rate‐determining step followed by rapid heterolytic O−O bond cleavage of FeII‐OO⊕HtBu to FeIV=O complex. The formation of [(TPA)FeIV=O]2+ is thus revealed to be greatly enhanced by the similar oxidation of [FeII(TPA)]2+ (40 mm) with 10 equivalents of tBuO2H at −45 °C. These results demonstrate the heterolytic O−O bond cleavage of FeII‐alkylperoxo species to form FeIV=O originating from the direct reaction of iron(II) complexes/TBHP. The observation of concentration and temperature effects leads to the hypothesis that O−O bond homolysis is a kinetic control pathway and O−O bond heterolysis is a thermodynamic control pathway.
A Topotactic Synthetic Methodology for the Synthesis of Nanosized MFI Zeolites with Hierarchical Structures
Authors: Li Ang , Wang Xue , Wang Tao , Liu Huali , Gao Tunan , Fan Meihong , Huo Qisheng , Qiao Zhen‐An
Published: June 2018

Much effort has been invested in the designed synthesis of zeolites with nanosized and hierarchical structures in recent decades, on account of increasing demands in practical applications, especially catalysis. Herein, a new topotactic synthetic strategy is demonstrated to synthesize nanosized and hierarchical zeolites in a one‐step procedure. By using silica spheres as the adjustable amorphous precursors and tetrapropylammonium hydroxide as a structure‐directing agent, effortless control of both size and porosity can be achieved in this system with no extra templates. With a simple hydrothermal process, hierarchical zeolite spheres can be modified with acid cites (Al species incorporated in the framework). Benefitting from its mesoporosity, palladium nanoparticles are incorporated into the nanosized hierarchical zeolite, which makes the materials suitable for use in a cascade catalysis reaction of benzimidazole derivatives, including independent acid catalysis and hydrogenation sites. The nanocomposites show exceptional activity and stability in catalysis and recycling reaction. This strategy can be developed into other versatile and practicable scaffolds for advanced zeolite catalytic nanoreactor systems.