bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excitation of O+ Band EMIC Waves Through H+ Ring Velocity Distributions: Van Allen Probe Observations
Authors: Yu Xiongdong , Yuan Zhigang , Huang Shiyong , Yao Fei , Wang Dedong , Funsten Herbert O. , Wygant John R.
Published: February 2018

A typical case of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) emissions with both He+ band and O+ band waves was observed by Van Allen Probe A on 14 July 2014. These emissions occurred in the morning sector on the equator inside the plasmasphere, in which region O+ band EMIC waves prefer to appear. Through property analysis of these emissions, it is found that the He+ band EMIC waves are linearly polarized and propagating quasi‐parallelly along the background magnetic field, while the O+ band ones are of linear and left‐hand polarization and propagating obliquely with respect to the background magnetic field. Using the in situ observations of plasma environment and particle data, excitation of these O+ band EMIC waves has been investigated with the linear growth theory. The calculated linear growth rate shows that these O+ band EMIC waves can be locally excited by ring current protons with ring velocity distributions. The comparison of the observed wave spectral intensity and the calculated growth rate suggests that the density of H+ rings providing the free energy for the instability has decreased after the wave grows. Therefore, this paper provides a direct observational evidence to the excitation mechanism of O+ band EMIC waves: ring current protons with ring distributions provide the free energy supporting the instability in the presence of rich O+ in the plasmasphere.
PSMD7 downregulation induces apoptosis and suppresses tumorigenesis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via the mTOR/p70S6K pathway
Authors: Shi Ke , Zhang Jin‐zhong , Zhao Rui‐li , Yang Liang , Guo Dan
Published: February 2018

PSMD7, a 19S proteasome subunit, is overexpressed in most carcinoma cells. It forms a dimer with PSMD14 that functions in the removal of attached ubiquitin chain. However, there is little knowledge about the cellular mechanism of PSMD7 and its exact biological function, especially in cancer cells. In this study, we explored the role of PSMD7 in proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and proteasomal proteolysis in the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell line EC9706. Our results showed that PSMD7 was highly expressed in ESCC cells. Downregulation of PSMD7 by lentivirus‐mediated shRNA led to decreased proliferation, increased cell apoptosis, and reduced proteasomal function. Notably, lower expression level of mTOR and p70S6K and suppressed activity of mTOR/p70S6K pathway were detected after PSMD7 downregulation. By contrast, increased expression of p‐mTORSer2448 and p‐p70S6KThr421/Ser424 was discovered upon PSMD7 overexpression in Het‐1A cells. Furthermore, PSMD7 downregulation contributed to decelerated tumor growth, inhibition of proteasomal function, induced cell apoptosis and attenuated activity of mTOR/p70S6K pathway in vivo. These findings suggest that PSMD7 and the mTOR/p70S6K pathway may be a promising candidate for developing therapies for ESCC.
An evaluation of the impact of SG1 disproportionation and the addition of styrene in NMP of methyl methacrylate
Authors: Fierens Stijn K. , Van Steenberge Paul H. M. , Vermeire Florence , Reyniers Marie‐Françoise , Marin Guy B. , D'hooge Dagmar R.
Published: February 2018

A kinetic modeling study is presented for batch nitroxide mediated polymerization (NMP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA; nitroxide: N‐tert‐butyl‐N‐[1‐diethylphosphono‐(2,2‐dimethylpropyl)] (SG1)). Arrhenius parameters for SG1 disproportionation (A = 1.4 107 L mol−1 s−1; Ea = 23 kJ mol−1) are reported, based on homopolymerization data accounting for unavoidable temperature variations with increasing time, that is, nonisothermicity. For low targeted chain lengths (TCLs ≤ 300), this nonisothermicity is also relevant for NMP of MMA with a small amount of styrene. Parameter tuning to copolymerization data confirms a penultimate monomer unit effect for activation (sa2 = ka12/ka22=6.7; 363 K; 1: MMA; 2: styrene). To obtain, for a broad TCL range (up to 800), a dispersity well below 1.3 an initial styrene mass fraction of ca. 10% is required. An interpretation of the comonomer incorporation is performed by calculating the fractions of activation‐growth‐deactivation cycles with a given amount of monomer units and the copolymer composition distribution. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 2545–2559, 2018
CHILD syndrome: A modified pathogenesis‐targeted therapeutic approach
Authors: Bergqvist Christina , Abdallah Bilal , Hasbani Divina‐Justina , Abbas Ossama , Kibbi Abdul Ghani , Hamie Lamiaa , Kurban Mazen , Rubeiz Nelly
Published: February 2018

Congenital Hemidysplasia with Ichthyosiform nevus and Limb Defects (CHILD syndrome) is a rare X‐linked dominant genodermatosis caused by mutations in the NAD(P) dependent steroid dehydrogenase‐like protein gene. Its defect leads to accumulation of toxic metabolic intermediates upstream from the pathway block and to the deficiency of bulk cholesterol, probably leading to altered keratinocyte membrane function, resulting in the phenotype seen in CHILD syndrome. Symptomatic treatment using emollients and retinoids to reduce scaling has long been used until recently, whereby new therapeutic means based on the pathogenesis‐targeted therapy have been developed. We subsequently chose to use the same pathogenesis‐based therapy using a 2% cholesterol and 2% lovastatin cream with or without glycolic acid in two of our patients. Improvement in CHILD skin lesions was seen as early as 4 weeks after initiation. The addition of glycolic acid helped improve the penetrance of the cholesterol and lovastatin cream into the thick waxy scales. Our study confirms the efficacy of the pathogenesis‐targeted therapy and introduces the possibility of modifying its formula by adding glycolic acid in order to improve the treatment.
Synthesis of β‐Naphthols and Naphthofuranones from ortho‐Alkynylarylketones via Sequential AgTFA‐Catalyzed Ketonization–Intramolecular Aldol Condensation: A Total Synthesis of Negundin A
Authors: Nimnual Phongprapan , Norseeda Krissada , Akkachairin Bhornrawin , Tummatorn Jumreang , Laohapaisan Pavitra , Supantanapong Nantamon , Chuangsoongnern Pennapa , Thongsornkleeb Charnsak , Sittihan Satapanawat , Ruchirawat Somsak , Rodphon Warabhorn
Published: February 2018

A sequential synthesis of β‐naphthols and naphtho[2,3‐b]furan‐2(3H)‐ones (naphthofuranones) has been developed using ortho‐alkynylarylketones as the substrates. The AgTFA‐catalyzed ketonization generated the corresponding 1,5‐diketone intermediates in situ; these were further cyclized via aldol condensation under basic conditions to obtain β‐naphthol products in moderate to good yields. For the synthesis of naphtho[2,3‐b]furan‐2(3H)‐ones, an additional lactonization step was applied to give a broad range of products in good yields. Moreover, this method has also been utilized in the synthesis of natural product negundin A.
Corticosteroid nasal irrigations are more effective than simple sprays in a randomized double‐blinded placebo‐controlled trial for chronic rhinosinusitis after sinus surgery
Authors: Harvey Richard J. , Snidvongs Kornkiat , Kalish Larry H. , Oakley Gretchen M. , Sacks Raymond
Published: February 2018

Background

Persistent mucosal inflammation in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) often results in ongoing symptoms, recurrence of polypoid mucosa, infective exacerbations, and further systemic medication despite surgical intervention. Debate exists as to the most effective topical therapy in CRS.

Methods

The objective was to determine if corticosteroid delivered via a nasal irrigation or via a simple nasal spray would be more effective in controlling the symptoms and signs of CRS. A double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized trial over 12 months was performed between 3 tertiary rhinologic clinics. After sinus surgery, all patients performed a nasal irrigation followed by a nasal spray once a day for 12 months. Groups were defined by corticosteroid (2 mg mometasone) delivered by either spray or irrigation. The primary outcomes were patient‐reported symptoms: visual analogue score (VAS) and 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22), a global rating of sinonasal function. Secondary outcomes were also recorded from radiology (Lund‐Mackay score [LMS]) and endoscopic (Modified Lund‐Kennedy score [mLKS]) assessments.

Results

A total of 44 patients were randomized (age 50.3 ± 13.0 years; 40.9% female). Overall, patients improved significantly from either intervention. However, the corticosteroid nasal irrigation group had greater improvement in nasal blockage (−69.91 ± 29.37 vs −36.12 ± 42.94; p = 0.029), a greater improvement on LMS (−12.07 ± 4.43 vs −7.39 ± 6.94; p = 0.031) and less inflammation on mLKS at 12 months (7.33 ± 11.55 vs 21.78 ± 23.37; p = 0.018). One‐year posttreatment blockage, drainage, fever, and total VAS scores were all lower in the corticosteroid irrigation group.

Conclusion

In the setting of diffuse or patchy CRS disease, the use of corticosteroid delivered by nasal irrigation is superior to simple nasal spray in postsurgical patients.
A One‐Step Route to CO2‐Based Block Copolymers by Simultaneous ROCOP of CO2/Epoxides and RAFT Polymerization of Vinyl Monomers
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhao Yajun , Ye Yunsheng , Peng Haiyan , Zhou Xingping , Xie Xiaolin , Wang Xianhong , Wang Fosong
Published: February 2018

The one‐step synthesis of well‐defined CO2‐based diblock copolymers was achieved by simultaneous ring‐opening copolymerization (ROCOP) of CO2/epoxides and RAFT polymerization of vinyl monomers using a trithiocarbonate compound bearing a carboxylic group (TTC‐COOH) as the bifunctional chain transfer agent (CTA). The double chain‐transfer effect allows for independent and precise control over the molecular weight of the two blocks and ensures narrow polydispersities of the resultant block copolymers (1.09–1.14). Notably, an unusual axial group exchange reaction between the aluminum porphyrin catalyst and TTC‐COOH impedes the formation of homopolycarbonates. By taking advantage of the RAFT technique, it is able to meet the stringent demand for functionality control to well expand the application scopes of CO2‐based polycarbonates.
A Carbon Electrode Functionalized by a Tricopper Cluster Complex: Overcoming Overpotential and Production of Hydrogen Peroxide in the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Thiyagarajan Natarajan , Janmanchi Damodar , Tsai Yi‐Fang , Wanna Wondemagegn Hailemichael , Ramu Ravirala , Chan Sunney I. , Zen Jyh‐Myng , Yu Steve S.‐F.
Published: February 2018

A study of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on a screen printed carbon electrode surface mediated by the tricopper cluster complex Cu3(7‐N‐Etppz(CH2OH)) dispersed on electrochemically reduced carbon black, where 7‐N‐Etppz(CH2OH) is the ligand 3,3′‐(6‐(hydroxymethyl)‐1,4‐diazepane‐1,4‐diyl)bis(1‐(4‐ethyl piperazin‐1‐yl)propan‐2‐ol), is described. Onset oxygen reduction potentials of about 0.92 V and about 0.77 V are observed at pH 13 and pH 7 vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode, which are comparable to the best values reported for any synthetic copper complex. Based on half‐wave potentials (E1/2), the corresponding overpotentials are about 0.42 V and about 0.68 V, respectively. Kinetic studies indicate that the trinuclear copper catalyst can accomplish the 4 e− reduction of O2 efficiently and the ORR is accompanied by the production of only small amounts of H2O2. The involvement of the copper triad in the O2 activation process is also verified.
Imaging of Colorectal Cancers Using Activatable Nanoprobes with Second Near‐Infrared Window Emission
Authors: Xu Ge , Yan Qinglong , Lv Xiaoguang , Zhu Ying , Xin Kai , Shi Ben , Wang Rongchen , Chen Jian , Gao Wei , Shi Ping , Fan Chunhai , Zhao Chunchang , Tian He
Published: February 2018

Fluorescent probes in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) allow high‐resolution bioimaging with deep‐tissue penetration. However, existing NIR‐II materials often have poor signal‐to‐background ratios because of the lack of target specificity. Herein, an activatable NIR‐II nanoprobe for visualizing colorectal cancers was devised. This designed probe displays H2S‐activated ratiometric fluorescence and light‐up NIR‐II emission at 900–1300 nm. By using this activatable and target specific probe for deep‐tissue imaging of H2S‐rich colon cancer cells, accurate identification of colorectal tumors in animal models were performed. It is anticipated that the development of activatable NIR‐II probes will find widespread applications in biological and clinical systems.
Potassium‐Zincate‐Catalyzed Benzylic C−H Bond Addition of Diarylmethanes to Styrenes
Authors: Liu Yu‐Feng , Zhai Dan‐Dan , Zhang Xiang‐Yu , Guan Bing‐Tao
Published: February 2018

Direct functionalization of the benzylic C−H bond of diarylmethanes is an important strategy for the synthesis of diarylmethine‐containing compounds. However, the methods developed to date for this purpose require a stoichiometric amount (usually more) of either a strong base or an oxidant. Reported here is the first catalytic benzylic C−H bond addition of diarylmethanes to styrenes and conjugated dienes. A potassium zincate complex, generated from potassium benzyl and zinc amide, acts as a catalyst and displays good activity and chemoselectivity. Considering the atom economy of the reaction and the ready availability of the catalyst, this reaction constitutes a practical, efficient method for diarylalkane synthesis.
Competitive Affinity Release for Long‐Term Delivery of Antibodies from Hydrogels
Authors: Huynh Vincent , Wylie Ryan G.
Published: February 2018

With increased clinical use of antibodies, long‐term delivery strategies are needed to decrease injection frequency and improve health outcomes. A three‐component drug‐delivery system was developed for competitive affinity release of a streptavidin–antibody conjugate from agarose–desthiobiotin hydrogels via controlled dissolution of sparingly soluble biotin derivatives. The antibody conjugate was localized in the hydrogel through streptavidin–desthiobiotin complexation. Dissolution of sparingly soluble biotin derivatives disrupts streptavidin–desthiobiotin complexation for controlled release of the antibody conjugate. Release was tuned by altering the total biotin derivative concentration without further hydrogel or antibody modification. First‐order tunable release of bioactive Avastin, a therapeutic anti‐VEGF antibody, was demonstrated from a non‐cytotoxic system for over 100 days.
Iron‐Catalyzed Reductive Ethylation of Imines with Ethanol
Authors: Vayer Marie , Morcillo Sara P. , Dupont Jennifer , Gandon Vincent , Bour Christophe
Published: February 2018

The borrowing hydrogen strategy has been applied to the ethylation of imines with an air‐stable iron complex as precatalyst. This approach opens new perspectives in this area as it enables the synthesis of unsymmetric tertiary amines from readily available substrates and ethanol as a C2 building block. A variety of imines bearing electron‐rich aryl or alkyl groups at the nitrogen atom could be efficiently reductively alkylated without the need for molecular hydrogen. The mechanism of this reaction, which shows complete selectivity for ethanol over other alcohols, has been studied experimentally and by means of DFT computations.
Hydrophilic Oligo(lactic acid)s Captured by a Hydrophobic Polyaromatic Cavity in Water
Authors: Kusaba Shunsuke , Yamashina Masahiro , Akita Munetaka , Kikuchi Takashi , Yoshizawa Michito
Published: February 2018

Biologically relevant hydrophilic molecules rarely interact with hydrophobic compounds and surfaces in water owing to effective hydration. Nevertheless, herein we report that the hydrophobic cavity of a polyaromatic capsule, formed through coordination‐driven self‐assembly, can encapsulate hydrophilic oligo(lactic acid)s in water with relatively high binding constants (up to Ka=3×105 m−1). X‐ray crystallographic and ITC analyses revealed that the unusual host–guest behavior is caused by enthalpic stabilization through multiple CH–π and hydrogen‐bonding interactions. The polyaromatic cavity stabilizes hydrolyzable cyclic di(lactic acid) and captures tetra(lactic acid) preferentially from a mixture of oligo(lactic acid)s even in water.
Selective Anion Extraction and Recovery Using a FeII4L4 Cage
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Ronson Tanya K. , Mosquera Jesús , Martinez Alexandre , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: February 2018

Selective anion extraction is useful for the recovery and purification of valuable chemicals, and in the removal of pollutants from the environment. Here we report that FeII4L4 cage 1 is able to extract an equimolar amount of ReO4−, a high‐value anion and a nonradioactive surrogate of TcO4−, from water into nitromethane. Importantly, the extraction was efficiently performed even in the presence of 10 other common anions in water, highlighting the high selectivity of 1 for ReO4−. The extracted guest could be released into water as the cage disassembled in ethyl acetate, and then 1 could be recycled by switching the solvent to acetonitrile. The versatile solubility of the cage also enabled complete extraction of ReO4− (as the tetrabutylammonium salt) from an organic phase into water by using the sulfate salt of 1 as the extractant.
Hierarchischer Aufbau eines verflochtenen M8L16‐Containers
Authors: Bloch Witold M. , Holstein Julian J. , Dittrich Birger , Hiller Wolf , Clever Guido H.
Published: February 2018

Die Selbstassemblierung von 8 PdII‐Kationen und 16 Phenanthren‐basierten, verbrückenden Liganden mit einem Bisswinkel von 60° führt zur Bildung einer neuartigen metallosupramolekularen M8L16‐Struktur aus zwei ineinander verflochtenen, D4h‐symmetrischen, fassförmigen Containern. Mit Massenspektrometrie, NMR‐Spektroskopie und Einkristallröntgenstrukturanalyse konnte die Bildung eines sehr großen Catenans mit “Hopf‐Link”‐Topologie nachgewiesen werden, das Kanal‐ähnliche Kavitäten aufweist, in denen sich NO3−‐Anionen befinden. Die Relevanz der Anionen als Templatmoleküle für die Catenierung ergibt sich aus der Beobachtung, dass in einer Mischung von M3L6‐ und M4L8‐Strukturen, die sich in Gegenwart von BF4−‐Anionen bilden, durch Versetzen mit Nitrat eine Strukturänderung zum ineinander verflochtenen Catenan induziert wurde. Das dicht gepackte M8L16‐Catenan fungierte als Vorlage zur Herstellung eines Hexyloxy‐funktionalisierten Analogons, für das eine weiterführende, reversible Aggregation zu vesikulären Überstrukturen beobachtet wurde.
Aqueous‐Phase Synthesis of Mesoporous Zr‐Based MOFs Templated by Amphoteric Surfactants
Authors: Li Ke , Lin Shaoliang , Li Yongsheng , Zhuang Qixin , Gu Jinlou
Published: February 2018

Zr‐based mesoporous metal–organic frameworks (mesoMOFs) with uniform mesochannels and crystallized microporous framework were constructed in a water‐based system using amphoteric surfactants as templates. Aqueous‐phase synthesis guaranteed the formation of rod‐shaped surfactant micelles. Meanwhile, the carboxylate groups of amphoteric surfactants provided the anchoring to bridge Zr‐oxo clusters and surfactant assemblies. As a result, the directed crystallization of MOFs proceeded around cylindrical micelles and the hierarchical micro‐ and mesostructure was produced. The dimensions of mesopores were easily tailored by changing the alkyl chain length of the applied surfactants. The included surfactant was effectively extracted thanks to the exceptional stability of the obtained Zr‐based mesoMOFs. The almost complete occupation of the mesopore by cytochrome c exemplifies the accessibility of the mesochannels, suggesting the potential applications of the obtained mesoMOFs with bulky molecules.
A Chiral Ligand Assembly That Confers One‐Electron O2 Reduction Activity for a Cu2+‐Selective Metallohydrogel
Authors: Wang Xiaojuan , Wei Chuanwan , Su Ji‐Hu , He Bo , Wen Ge‐Bo , Lin Ying‐Wu , Zhang Yi
Published: February 2018

The design of functional metallohydrogels is attractive but challenging. A rational approach is introduced for designing functional metallohydrogels using chiral ligands, a phenylalanine derivative with a pyridyl group (l/d‐PF). Intriguingly, the as‐prepared metallohydrogel exhibits excellent O2 binding and activating properties. Insights into the O2 binding pathway reveals the presence of a novel [(l+d)‐PF‐Cu3+‐O2−] species, which can efficiently reduce ferric cytochrome c with the reactive O2− by receiving an electron from reductant ascorbic acid. This study provides helpful instructions for developing new artificial systems with specific functions through the effective combination of chiral ligands with metal ions.
Ozonation of aqueous phenol using high‐silica zeolite in an aerated mixing vessel
Authors: Yamamoto Takuji , Iimura Kenji , Satone Hiroshi , Itoh Kazuhiro , Maeda Kouji
Published: February 2018

We examined the degradation of aqueous phenol by ozonation in an aerated mixing vessel, which was combined with a fixed‐bed reactor packed with high‐silica zeolite (HSZ) pellets. Ozone‐containing oxygen gas was introduced as fine bubbles through a sparger placed in the aerated mixing vessel, whereas the aqueous phenol solution was circulated between the vessel and the reactor. Measurements of transient changes in the concentration of both phenol and total organic carbon in the treated solution revealed that the degradation of phenol or total organic carbon by ozonation was enhanced by the presence of HSZ because both phenol and ozone could adsorb on the hydrophobic micropores. As a result of quantitative analysis of the treated solution, it was found that catechol, hydroquinone, humic acid, and maleic acid were the possible reaction intermediates during ozonation of aqueous phenol employing HSZ.
Ion transport properties of porous polybenzimidazole membranes for vanadium redox flow batteries obtained via supercritical drying of swollen polymer films
Authors: Sizov Victor E. , Kondratenko Mikhail S. , Gallyamov Marat O.
Published: February 2018

A novel method of membrane preparation for use in vanadium redox flow batteries by preswelling of poly(2,5‐benzimidazole) films in organic solvent followed by supercritical CO2 assisted solvent removal is proposed. Influence of the organic solvent type on the morphology, proton, and vanadyl ion transport properties is studied. The performance of the obtained membranes inside single cells of vanadium redox flow batteries is compared to pristine dense poly(2,5‐benzimidazole) and Nafion 115 membranes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46262.
Epoxidized vegetable oil and bio‐based materials as PVC plasticizer
Authors: Hosney Hadeel , Nadiem Bassant , Ashour Ibrahim , Mustafa Ibrahim , El‐Shibiny Ayman
Published: February 2018

Phthalate esters received a considerable attention owing to its various applications and the harmful health effects resulting from phthalate exposure; thus, finding an alternative to phthalate derivatives became a necessity. Phthalate esters are commonly used as plasticizer in polymer formulation; in particular for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) formulation. According to the researches in the last 18 years, epoxidized vegetable oils are one of the alternatives that are strongly encouraged to substitute phthalate esters since they were proven to be valid in various applications, eco‐friendly and sustainable resource. However, most of the production practices for epoxidized vegetable oil are via conventional epoxidation that concentrates on a catalyst that is homogeneous and non‐reusable. This type of catalyst, however, causes several problems later in the process. Therefore, the selective epoxidation of vegetable oils process requires new catalytic systems that are more aligned with the green chemistry principles. This article reviews the harmful health effects associated with the exposure to phthalate esters products, explains the usage of oleochemicals resources as a substitute to phthalate esters and describes different approaches for the epoxidation of vegetable oils. Finally, it draws attention to the usage of epoxy and bio‐based compounds as plasticizers in PVC manufacturing. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46270.
The commercialization and use of exotic baits in recreational fisheries in the north‐western Mediterranean: Environmental and management implications
Authors: Font Toni , Gil João , Lloret Josep
Published: February 2018

Although the use of exotic baits in recreational fisheries represents an increasing environmental threat for Mediterranean marine ecosystems, there is still little information about the commercialization and use of these baits, which makes it difficult to assess their potential impacts and establish specific management measures to tackle the threat that they pose.

This study analyses for the first time the commercialization and use of exotic species in recreational fishing in the Mediterranean, and the associated environmental and management implications. A multiple‐approach design has been used, including: a participatory survey to collect data and perceptions from local retailers and a national bait wholesaler on the environmental impacts of exotic baits; a biological study to identify taxonomically the commercialized bait species; and a bibliographic survey to gather information about the potential environmental impacts of the commercialization and use of exotic baits.

Results showed that, among the 13 different baits sold, only the polychaete group included three exotic species: Perinereis linea, Glycera dibranchiata, and Namalycastis rhodochorde. Furthermore, specimens of the sipunculid Sipunculus nudus, imported from South‐east Asia, should also be considered exotic.

The exotic species P. linea and G. dibranchiata were the two polychaete species most often used by sea anglers. These species were also the most sold by local retailers in the area and by Spain's leading wholesaler.

Overall, anglers and local retailers were not fully aware of the potential negative impacts derived from the use of exotic species, and therefore appropriate management actions, including awareness activities, are discussed to better understand and manage the environmental impacts derived from exotic baits.
Seasonal acoustic occurrence of blue, fin, and North Atlantic right whales in the New York Bight
Authors: Muirhead Charles A. , Warde Ann M. , Biedron Ingrid S. , Nicole Mihnovets A. , Clark Christopher W. , Rice Aaron N.
Published: February 2018

The New York Bight is an extremely busy maritime region, with extensive shipping traffic and commercial fishing activity. It is part of the migratory ranges of a number of cetacean species, and includes threats from ship strikes, noise exposure, and line entanglements. Previous cetacean surveys of the Bight offer limited information on cetacean occurrence and distribution in the region, having been restricted to visual sightings with limited temporal coverage.

A passive acoustic monitoring survey was conducted over a 258‐day period to broaden understanding of the seasonal occurrences of blue (Balaenoptera musculus), fin (Balaenoptera physalus), and North Atlantic right (Eubalaena glacialis) whales during late summer, autumn, winter, and early spring. Stationary acoustic recorders were positioned near the entrance to New York Harbour and as a linear transect extending from Long Island to the continental shelf edge.

Blue, fin, and right whales were detected on 11%, 100%, and 16% of the survey days, respectively. Blue whales were detected offshore during January, February, and March. Fin whales were detected offshore every day, and less often near‐shore. Right whales occurred sporadically during every month, but were most often detected at near‐shore recorders between late February and mid‐May.

Based on the acoustic data alone, it is unclear exactly how these species are using this habitat, although it is clear that they occur in the area longer than was previously thought. Thus, management practices should incorporate this extended seasonal presence to mitigate any effects on the whales from shipping and fishing activities.
Settlement of Ostrea edulis is determined by the availability of hard substrata rather than by its nature: Implications for stock recovery and restoration of the European oyster
Authors: Smyth David , Mahon Anne Marie , Roberts Dai , Kregting Louise
Published: February 2018

Since the collapse of the Ostrea edulis stock in the mid‐1800s the oyster has struggled to re‐establish itself in self‐sustaining assemblages in Europe.

It is now widely recognized that O. edulis is an integral component of a healthy biologically functional benthic environment and, as such, the restoration of wild stocks has become a matter of urgency.

A major limiting factor in O. edulis stock recovery is the availability of suitable substrate material for oyster larvae settlement.

This research re‐examined the larval settlement potential of several naturally occurring in‐situ shell materials (e.g. Mytilus edulis, Modiolus modiolus, O. edulis), with the aim of determining which shell material is the most appropriate for large‐scale restoration projects.

A positive correlation between available shell material and settlement was determined, and analysis using permanova did not identify an attachment preference by O. edulis to any particular shell type.

The findings suggest that if restoration efforts were coordinated with applied hydrodynamic and habitat suitability modelling, in conjunction with naturally occurring shell substrate concentrations, a cost‐effective recovery for O. edulis assemblages in the wild could be achieved.
Dual‐Targeted Selenium Nanoparticles for Synergistic Photothermal Therapy and Chemotherapy of Tumors
Authors: Fang Xueyang , Li Chang'e , Zheng Lan , Yang Fang , Chen Tianfeng
Published: February 2018

A combination of chemo‐ and photothermal therapy has emerged as a promising tactic for cancer therapy. However, the intricacy of accurate delivery and the ability to initiate drug release in specific tumor sites remains a challenging puzzle. Hence, to assure that the chemotherapeutic drug and photothermal agent are synchronously delivered to a tumor area for their synergistic effect, dual‐target (RC‐12 and PG‐6 peptides) functionalized selenium nanoparticles loaded with both doxorubicin (DOX) and indocyanine green (ICG) were designed and successfully synthesized. The as‐synthesized nanoparticles exhibited good monodispersity, size stability, and consistent spectral characteristics compared with those of ICG or DOX alone. The nanoparticles underwent self‐immolated cleavage under irradiation from a near‐IR laser and released the loaded drug owing to sufficient hyperthermia. Moreover, the internalized nanoparticles triggered the overproduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species to induce cell apoptosis. Taken together, this study provides a sequentially triggered nanosystem to achieve precise drug delivery by chemo‐photothermal combination.
Folate receptor autoantibodies are prevalent in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, their normal siblings and parents
Authors: Quadros Edward V. , Sequeira Jeffrey M. , Brown W. Ted , Mevs Clifford , Marchi Elaine , Flory Michael , Jenkins Edmund C. , Velinov Milen T. , Cohen Ira L.
Published: February 2018

Folate deficiency can affect fetal and neonatal brain development Considering the reported association of Folate receptor alpha (FRα) autoantibodies (Abs) with autism and developmental disorders, we sought to confirm this in families of 82 children with ASD, 53 unaffected siblings, 65 fathers, and 70 mothers, along with 52 unrelated normal controls. Overall, 76% of the affected children, 75% of the unaffected siblings, 69% of fathers and 59% of mothers were positive for either blocking or binding Ab, whereas the prevalence of this Ab in the normal controls was 29%. The Ab was highly prevalent in affected families including unaffected siblings. The appearance of these antibodies may have a familial origin but the risk of developing ASD is likely influenced by other mitigating factors since some siblings who had the antibodies were not affected. The antibody response appears heritable with the blocking autoantibody in the parents and affected child increasing the risk of ASD. Autism Res 2018, 11: 707–712. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Folate is an essential nutrient during fetal and infant development. Autoantibodies against the folate receptor alpha can block folate transport from the mother to the fetus and to the brain in infants. Children diagnosed with autism and their immediate family members were evaluated for the prevalence of folate receptor autoantibodies. The autoantibody was highly prevalent in affected families with similar distribution in parents, normal siblings and affected children. The presence of these antibodies appears to have a familial origin and may contribute to developmental deficits when combined with other factors.
Fish bone peptide promotes osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblasts through upregulation of MAPKs and Smad pathways activated BMP‐2 receptor
Authors: Heo Seong‐Yeong , Ko Seok‐Chun , Nam Seung Yun , Oh Junghwan , Kim Young‐Mog , Kim Jae‐Il , Kim Namwon , Yi Myunggi , Jung Won‐Kyo
Published: February 2018

Fish bone, a by‐product of fishery processing, is composed of protein, calcium, and other minerals. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a bioactive peptide isolated from the bone of the marine fish, Johnius belengerii, on the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblasts. Post consecutive purification by liquid chromatography, a potent osteogenic peptide, composed of 3 amino acids, Lys‐Ser‐Ala (KSA, MW: 304.17 Da), was identified. The purified peptide promoted cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, mineral deposition, and expression levels of phenotypic markers of osteoblastic differentiation in MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblast. The purified peptide induced phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases, including p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase, extracellular regulated kinase, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase as well as Smads. As attested by molecular modelling study, the purified peptide interacted with the core interface residues in bone morphogenetic protein receptors with high affinity. Thus, the purified peptide could serve as a potential pharmacological substance for controlling bone metabolism.
Site‐Specific Labelling of Native Mammalian Proteins for Single‐Molecule FRET Measurements
Authors: Gust Alexander , Jakob Leonhard , Zeitler Daniela M. , Bruckmann Astrid , Kramm Kevin , Willkomm Sarah , Tinnefeld Philip , Meister Gunter , Grohmann Dina
Published: February 2018

Human cells are complex entities in which molecular recognition and selection are critical for cellular processes often driven by structural changes and dynamic interactions. Biomolecules appear in different chemical states, and modifications, such as phosphorylation, affect their function. Hence, using proteins in their chemically native state in biochemical and biophysical assays is essential. Single‐molecule FRET measurements allow exploration of the structure, function and dynamics of biomolecules but cannot be fully exploited for the human proteome, as a method for the site‐specific coupling of organic dyes into native, non‐recombinant mammalian proteins is lacking. We address this issue showing the site‐specific engineering of fluorescent dyes into human proteins on the basis of bioorthogonal reactions. We show the applicability of the method to study functional and post‐translationally modified proteins on the single‐molecule level, among them the hitherto inaccessible human Argonaute 2.
One‐year clinical outcomes and multislice computed tomography angiographic results following implantation of theNeoVas bioresorbable sirolimus‐eluting scaffold in patients with single de novo coronary artery lesions
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Zeng , Zhang Yao‐Jun , Fu Guo‐Sheng , Jing Quan‐Min , Xu Bo , Han Ya‐Ling
Published: February 2018

Background

Tremendous efforts have been made to establish the concept of vascular restoration therapy with a fully bioresorbable scaffold for coronary artery disease. With an improved scaffold design and technologies, the novel NeoVas scaffold has shown promising clinical performance at 6 months follow‐up.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the 1 year clinical outcomes and multislice computed tomography (MSCT) angiographic results after implantation of the NeoVas scaffold in patients with single de novo coronary artery lesions.

Methods

The NeoVas first‐in‐man study was a prospective, two‐center, single‐arm study enrolling 31 patients who were eligible for the treatment. The composite endpoint of target lesion failure (TLF)—defined as cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and clinically indicated target lesion revascularization (TLR)—was assessed. Of the 31 patients scheduled for 1 year clinical follow‐up, 29 patients received MSCT examinations.

Results

At 1 year follow‐up, there was only 1 (3.2%) TLF, attributed to 1 patient who suffered ischemia‐driven TLR at 181 days postprocedure. No cardiac deaths or scaffold thrombosis were observed. MSCT analysis demonstrated excellent vessel patency, with a median in‐scaffold lumen area of 10.6 mm2(interquartile range [IQR]: 8.2–11.7 mm2) and a minimal lumen diameter of 2.7 mm (IQR: 2.4–3.0 mm).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the NeoVas scaffold for patients with single de novo coronary artery lesions at 1 year of follow‐up. Noninvasive MSCT data confirmed vessel patency and the maintenance of vessel dimensions following implantation of the NeoVas bioresorbable sirolimus‐eluting scaffold.
Direct Production of Iso‐Paraffins from Syngas over Hierarchical Cobalt‐ZSM‐5 Nanocomposites Synthetized by using Carbon Nanotubes as Sacrificial Templates
Authors: Flores Camila , Batalha Nuno , Ordomsky Vitaly V. , Zholobenko Vladimir L. , Baaziz Walid , Marcilio Nilson R. , Khodakov Andrei Y.
Published: February 2018

This paper focuses on the effect of synthesis conditions on the structure of cobalt‐ZSM‐5 zeolites and the localization, dispersion, and reducibility of cobalt species and their catalytic performance in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. The zeolite catalysts were prepared by using carbon nanotubes as sacrificial templates. Addition of pristine carbon nanotubes resulted only in a slight increase in the zeolite mesoporosity, whereas the presence of carbon nanotubes impregnated with cobalt drastically modified the zeolite morphology and texture. The zeolite mesoporous volume increased by 3–4 times. The catalysts prepared by using cobalt‐impregnated carbon nanotubes as templates showed 5–8 times higher Fischer–Tropsch reaction rates normalized by reducible cobalt compared with the catalysts prepared by conventional impregnation. Higher selectivity to isomerized branched hydrocarbons on these zeolites was attributed to the enhanced diffusion favoring removal of isomerized products and avoiding their cracking.
Pluronic‐Conjugated Enzyme Cascade for In Situ Oxidation in Biphasic Media
Authors: Wang Zheyu , Xu Weina , Fu Zhongwang , Jiang Guoqiang , Wu Jianzhong , Liu Zheng
Published: February 2018

A Pluronic‐conjugated enzyme cascade was synthesized for catalyzing oxidation reactions using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as the oxidant. The synthesis started with encapsulating enzymes in the micelles of aldehyde‐functionalized Pluronic (PL) containing bovine serum albumin (BSA). Schiff‐base bonds formed between the amine groups of proteins and the aldehyde groups of the PL, which were reduced to a more stable form, resulting in enzyme–PL conjugates. The effects of operation parameters on the conjugate yield were examined using glucose oxidase (GOx) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as examples. The co‐localization of GOx and HRP was confirmed by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), from which the average distance between GOx and HRP was interpreted as 6.1 nm. The proximity effect was confirmed by adding a high concentration of catalase (CAT) to a solution of GOx–HRP–PL to catalyze the oxidation of ABTS. The GOx–HRP–PL conjugate was readily solubilized in organic solvents such as dimethyl sulfoxide, methanol or chloroform. Phenol oxidation with GOx–HRP–PL in dimethyl sulfoxide/water biphasic media was conducted using glucose as the substrate to generate H2O2 in situ. The multiple enzyme conjugate provided a 1.3‐fold higher removal rate compared to their native counterparts in free form. The GOx–HRP–PL conjugate could be readily recovered by centrifugation at 4 °C and 90 % of the initial activity remained after 10 cycles.
Ultrapermeable Nickel–Cobalt–Manganese/Alumina Inverse Opal as a Coke‐Tolerant and Pressure‐Drop‐Free Catalyst for the Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Kim Won Yong , Lee Byung Jun , Park Hunmin , Choi Yo Han , Kim Ju Hun , Lee Jae Sung
Published: February 2018

An inverse opal‐structured Ni‐Co‐Mn/Al2O3 catalyst with ultrahigh permeability was prepared by a sol–gel method templated by poly(methyl methacrylate) opal‐structured nanospheres. This catalyst exhibited excellent coke tolerance and a negligible reactor pressure drop in the dry reforming of methane. The highly permeable, unique macroporous structure allowed facile mass transport, which not only reduced the amount of coke deposition but also enhanced coke tolerance. Therefore, invariant CO2/CH4 conversions despite substantial coke formation were observed.
Synthesis of a Novel Type of 2,3′‐BIMs via Platinum‐Catalysed Reaction of Indolylallenes with Indoles
Authors: Cooper Lisa , Alonso José Miguel , Eagling Louise , Newson Helen , Herath Sachini , Thomson Christopher , Lister Andrew , Howsham Catherine , Cox Brian , Muñoz María Paz
Published: February 2018

Optimisation, scope and mechanism of the platinum‐catalysed addition of indoles to indolylallenes is reported here to give 2,3′‐BIMs with a novel core structure very relevant for pharmaceutical industry. The reaction is modulated by the electronic properties of the substituents on both indoles, with the 2,3′‐BIMs favoured when electron donating groups are present. Although simple at first, a complex mechanism has been uncovered that explains the different behaviour of these systems with platinum when compared with other metals (e.g. gold). Detailed labelling studies have shown Pt‐catalysed 6‐endo‐trig cyclisation of the indollylallene as the first step of the reaction and the involvement of two cyclic vinyl‐platinum intermediates in equilibrium through a platinum carbene, as the key intermediates of the catalytic cycle towards the second nucleophilic attack and formation of the BIMs.
Effects of C‐Related Dangling Bonds and Functional Groups on the Fluorescent and Electrochemiluminescent Properties of Carbon‐Based Dots
Authors: Wang Min , Sun Ruifen , Wang Qian , Chen Lichan , Hou Linxi , Chi Yuwu , Lu Chun Hua , Fu Fengfu , Dong Yongqiang
Published: February 2018

Single‐layer carbon‐based dots (SCDs) were chosen as a model to investigate the effect of the C‐related dangling bonds with spin S=1/2 and functional groups on the electrochemiluminescent (ECL) and fluorescent (FL) properties of CDs. The C‐related dangling bonds and functional groups of SCDs were tuned by chemical reduction with NaBH4. There have several main findings via investigating the ECL and FL properties of SCDs before and after the chemical reduction. First, the FL and ECL of CDs are highly dependent on their concentration, and luminescent resonance energy transfer is observed in ECL studies when the concentration of CDs is high. Second, the ECL activity of CDs is greatly enhanced as the C‐related dangling bonds increase, proving that the ECL of CDs originates from the C‐related dangling bonds. Third, the FL of CDs is the synthesis of the inner FL originated from the contained isolated sp2 units and the defect FL from the C‐related dangling bonds. The inner FL of CDs is enhanced greatly by removing the carboxyl groups, while the defect FL is increased slightly due to the increased C‐related dangling bonds. We believe this study would promote our understanding in the ECL and FL mechanisms of CDs, advancing the applications of CDs based on their ECL and FL properties.
Multidimensional Toxicity of Rhamnolipid Extracts Obtained From Creosote‐Contaminated Soil
Authors: Sydow Zuzanna , Lisiecki Piotr , Staninska‐Pięta Justyna , Olejnik Anna , Cyplik Paweł , Zgoła‐Grześkowiak Agnieszka , Marecik Roman , Nowak Jacek , Glazar Katarzyna , Piotrowska‐Cyplik Agnieszka
Published: February 2018

In this study, a comprehensive research on the toxicity of rhamnolipids and their influence on the toxicity of water extracts obtained from creosote‐contaminated soil is performed. The obtained extracts contain organic compounds from the studied soil, which are eluted by pure water as well as solutions of rhamnolipids at different concentrations (ranging from 150 to 1500 mg L−1 where 150 mg L−1 corresponds with 1× critical micelle concentration (CMC). GC‐MS analyses allow for classification of the organic compounds into groups representing (i) 2‐ and 3‐ring polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), (ii) 4‐ and 5‐ring PAHs, (iii) monoaromatic phenols, (iv) N‐heterocyclic compounds, and (v) other organic compounds. The addition of rhamnolipids reduces the elution of polar compounds and promoted the elution of hydrophobic compounds from soil (the elution of polycyclic hydrocarbons increases with increasing concentration of rhamnolipids). Moreover, HPLC‐MS analyses indicates a drop of the concentration of rhamnolipids compared to the initial concentration, suggesting a sorption of rhamnolipids on the soil matrix. Experiments regarding the toxicity toward activated sludge microorganisms (dehydrogenase activity assay), phytotoxicity (Phytotestkits), mutagenicity (Ames test), and cytotoxicity (MTT test) of extracts with and without rhamnolipids are also conducted. It is found that rhamnolipids increased the toxicity of the extracts toward microorganisms of activated sludge, phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity as well as mutagenicity toward Salmonella typhimurium TA 1537. The increasing toxicity in the presence of rhamnolipids can both be associated with increased bioavailability of toxic organic compounds as well as the toxicity of rhamnolipids.