bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regioselectivity of Radical Addition of Thiols to 1‐Alkenes
Authors: Biermann Ursula , Metzger Jürgen O.
Published: December 2017

The addition of dodecanethiol (1) to 1‐alkenes H2C=CHR that have substituents R = Hex, (CH2)8COOMe, Ph, Bn, cHex, CH2cHex, tBu (2a–2g) with different steric effects was studied. Some few percent of branched Markovnikov addition product 4 was formed in all cases with the exemption of styrene (2c) in addition to linear anti‐Markovnikov product 3 as the main product. The regioselectivities correlate well with the Taft steric parameter ES of the R‐substituent at the alkene. This gives evidence that the regioselective outcome of the radical addition of thiols to 1‐alkenes is mainly steered by the steric effect of the R‐substituent as it is well known for the addition of alkyl radicals to alkenes. In the case of thiol addition, however, the regioselectivity is strongly enhanced by the much faster fragmentation of the intermediate Markovnikov than of the anti‐Markovnikov adduct radical.
Carbon‐Encapsulated SnO2 Core–Shell Nanowires Directly Grown on Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets for High‐Performance Li‐Ion Battery Electrodes
Authors: Lee Sang Ho , Noh Yuseong , Jo Yong‐Ryun , Kim Yoongon , Kim Bong‐Joong , Kim Won Bae
Published: December 2017

A designed electrode material of carbon‐encapsulated tin dioxide core–shell nanowires that are synthesized directly on reduced graphene oxide substrates is reported, and its application as a positive electrode material for lithium‐ion battery is shown. Each of the individual tin dioxide nanowires is wrapped with carbon shell layers and grown on a reduced graphene oxide substrate, which gives rise to structural benefits for electrochemical performance of the lithium‐ion battery. Such carbon structures allow the electrode materials to withstand the mechanical stress during repeated charge/discharge processes and facilitate the reaction kinetics for the lithiation/delithiation processes. In the electrochemical cell tests, the synergetic effect of the proposed electrode design is explicitly verified by presenting highly enhanced rate capability and cycle durability on full‐cell batteries as well as half‐cell tests.
Transoral robotic surgery for residual and recurrent oropharyngeal cancers: Exploratory study of surgical innovation using the IDEAL framework for early‐phase surgical studies
Authors: Paleri Vinidh , Fox Hannah , Coward Sarah , Ragbir Maniram , McQueen Andrew , Ahmed Omar , Meikle David , Saleh Daniel , O'Hara James , Robinson Max
Published: December 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to identify the role of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in the management of residual and recurrent oropharyngeal cancer.

Methods

IDEAL (Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessment, Long‐term Follow‐up) 2a framework.

Results

Of 26 patients assessed for TORS, 21 underwent the procedure, 5 underwent open resection (4 due to unsuitable anatomy/tumor extent and 1 on the basis of patient choice). Three patients underwent intraoperative ultrasound‐assisted robotic resection, and 3 received robotic‐assisted free flap inset. A technical refinement for TORS of residual and recurrent oropharyngeal cancer of the tongue base is described. Actuarial plots showed estimated overall survival of 48.2%, local control of 76.6%, and disease‐specific survival of 77.1% at 42.6 months.

Conclusion

TORS is a valid management option for residual and recurrent oropharyngeal cancer. Oncologic outcomes are comparable to open surgery and transoral laser microsurgery, with the added advantages of en bloc resections, facility for intraoperative ultrasound imaging, and inset of free flaps without mandibular split.
miR‐191/DAB2 axis regulates the tumorigenicity of estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancer
Authors: Tian Xinxin , Zhang Zhiqian
Published: December 2017

Disabled‐2 (DAB2) has been shown to be downregulated in a variety of human cancer types including breast tumors. However, the role of DAB2 in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer cells has not been reported. In this context, we demonstrated that DAB2 expression was significantly decreased in ER+ breast cancer cell lines and ER+ clinical specimens, compared with ER– breast cancer cell lines and ER– tissues, respectively. Depletion of estrogen significantly elevated DAB2 expression in ER+ MCF7 and T‐47D cells. Treatment with estradiol (E2) reduced the expression of DAB2 and administration of tamoxifen upregulated DAB2 expression in a dose‐dependent manner. Functionally, silencing of DAB2 in hormone‐starved MCF7 and T‐47D cells promoted cellular proliferation and enforced expression of DAB2 in normal‐cultured or E2‐treated cells suppressed cellular proliferation. Mechanistically, estrogen‐induced miR‐191 was identified as a direct upstream regulator of DAB2 in ER+ cells. Luciferase reporter assay indicated that miR‐191 inhibited DAB2 expression by directly targeting the 3′‐UTR of DAB2. Importantly, the expression and function of miR‐191 showed the opposite tendency with DAB2 in ER+ cells. In vivo, inhibition of miR‐191 significantly suppressed the xenograft growth induced by E2, and silencing of DAB2 could restored the growth arrest induced by miR‐191 inhibition. Taken together, our data unveil that the miR‐191‐DAB2 axis seems to be an important pathway associated with estrogen signaling in breast cancer and may serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker and a powerful therapeutic target for ER+ breast cancer patients. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 70(1):71–80, 2018
Deficits in general emotion regulation skills–Evidence of a transdiagnostic factor
Authors: Lukas Christian Aljoscha , Ebert David Daniel , Fuentes Hugo Trevisi , Caspar Franz , Berking Matthias
Published: December 2017

Objective

Deficits in emotion regulation (ER) skills are discussed as a transdiagnostic factor contributing to the development and maintenance of various mental disorders. However, systematic comparisons of a broad range of ER skills across diagnostic groups that are based on comparable definitions and measures of ER are still rare.

Method

Therefore, we conducted two studies assessing a broad range of ER skills with the Emotion Regulation Skills Questionnaire in individuals meeting criteria for mental disorders (N1 = 1448; N2 = 137) and in a general population sample (N = 214).

Results

Consistent across the two studies, participants in the clinical samples reported lower general and lower specific ER skills than participants in the general population sample. Also consistent across the two studies, diagnostic subgroups of the clinical samples differed significantly with regard to general and specific ER skills.

Conclusion

The studies provide evidence that deficits in ER are associated with various forms of psychopathology. However, mental disorders seem to differ with regard to how strongly they are linked to ER skills.
Novel dietary supplement association reduces symptoms in endometriosis patients
Authors: Signorile Pietro G. , Viceconte Rosa , Baldi Alfonso
Published: December 2017

Endometriosis is characterized by disabling symptoms that afflict young women with severe physical discomfort, difficulty in relationship life, and infertility; however, the currently available therapeutic strategies are unsatisfactory. Goal of this research was to identify a new combination of natural active ingredients that, administered as dietary supplements, could have the effect of reducing inflammatory response in endometriosis patients, decreasing the symptoms the disease produces and its harmful effects on affected organs. A cohort of endometriosis patient was treated for 3 months with a composition including quercitin, curcumin, parthenium, nicotinamide, 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate, and omega 3/6. Using a VAS scale, we demonstrated a significant reduction of the symptoms in endometriosis patients treated with the dietary composition respect to the controls. Moreover, we demonstrated also a significant reduction in the serum levels of PGE2 and CA‐125. Further study are required to compare the effect of this combination of molecules with standard therapies and to evaluate if the use of these dietary supplements in combination with standard therapies may lead to the improvement of the regular medical treatment for endometriosis.
Obesity‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction in porcine adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Meng Yu , Eirin Alfonso , Zhu Xiang‐Yang , Tang Hui , Chanana Pritha , Lerman Amir , van Wijnen Andre J. , Lerman Lilach O.
Published: December 2017

Transplantation of autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may be a viable option for treatment of several diseases. MSCs efficacy depends on adequate function of their mitochondria, which might be impaired in a noxious milieu. We hypothesized that obesity compromises MSCs mitochondrial structure and function, possibly via micro‐RNA (miRNA)‐based mechanisms. MSCs were collected from swine abdominal adipose tissue after 16 weeks of Lean or Obese diet (n = 7 each). Mitochondrial structure was assessed by electron microscopy and function by membrane potential and cytochrome‐c oxidase (COX)‐IV activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by Mito‐SOX and dihydroethidium staining. Next‐generation sequencing (RNA‐seq) was performed to identify miRNAs expression in MSCs, and predicted mitochondrial target genes were then identified (MitoCarta). Compared to Lean‐MSCs, mitochondria from Obese‐MSCs were smaller and showed cristae remodeling and loss. Mitochondrial membrane potential and COX‐IV activity decreased in Obese‐MSCs, associated with increased mitochondrial oxidative stress. RNA‐seq generated reads for 413 miRNAs, of which 5 miRNAs were upregulated in Obese‐MSCs (fold change >2, p < 0.05) and found to target 43 specific mitochondrial genes. Obesity impairs MSC mitochondrial structure and function, possibly mediated partly through miRNA‐induced mitochondrial gene regulation, leading to increased oxidative stress. Importantly, these alterations may limit the therapeutic use of autologous MSCs in subjects with obesity.
The role of OAT2 (SLC22A7) in the cyclic nucleotide biokinetics of human erythrocytes
Authors: Sager Georg , Smaglyukova Natalia , Fuskevaag Ole‐Martin
Published: December 2017

The present study was conducted to characterise the transporter(s) responsible for the uptake of cyclic nucleotides to human erythrocytes. Western blotting showed that hRBC expressed OAT2 (SLC22A7), but detection of OAT1 (SLC22A6), or OAT3 (SLC22A8) was not possible. Intact hRBC were employed to clarify the simultaneous cyclic nucleotide egression and uptake. Both these opposing processes were studied. The Km‐values for high affinity efflux was 3.5 ± 0.1 and 39.4 ± 5.7 μM for cGMP and cAMP, respectively. The respective values for low affinity efflux were 212 ± 11 and 339 ± 42 μM. The uptake was characterised with apparently low affinity and similar Km‐values for cGMP (2.2 mM) and cAMP (0.89 mM). Using an iterative approach in order to balance uptake with efflux, the predicted real Km‐values for uptake were 100–200 μM for cGMP and 50–150 μM for cAMP. The established OAT2‐substrate indomethacin showed a competitive interaction with cyclic nucleotide uptake. Creatinine, also an OAT2 substrate, showed saturable uptake with a Km of 854 ± 98 μM. Unexpectedly, co‐incubation with cyclic nucleotides showed an uncompetitive inhibition. The observed Km‐values were 399 ± 44 and 259 ± 30 μM for creatinine, in the presence of cGMP and cAMP, respectively. Finally, the OAT1‐substrate para‐aminohippurate (PAH) showed some uptake (Km‐value of 2.0 ± 0.4 mM) but did not interact with cyclic nucleotide or indomethacin transport.
Short‐term disuse promotes fatty acid infiltration into skeletal muscle
Authors: Pagano Allan F. , Brioche Thomas , Arc‐Chagnaud Coralie , Demangel Rémi , Chopard Angèle , Py Guillaume
Published: December 2017

Background

Many physiological and/or pathological conditions lead to muscle deconditioning, a well‐described phenomenon characterized by a loss of strength and muscle power mainly due to the loss of muscle mass. Fatty infiltrations, or intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT), are currently well‐recognized components of muscle deconditioning. Despite the fact that IMAT is present in healthy human skeletal muscle, its increase and accumulation are linked to muscle dysfunction. Although IMAT development has been largely attributable to inactivity, the precise mechanisms of its establishment are still poorly understood. Because the sedentary lifestyle that accompanies age‐related sarcopenia may favour IMAT development, deciphering the early processes of muscle disuse is of great importance before implementing strategies to limit IMAT deposition.

Methods

In our study, we took advantage of the dry immersion (DI) model of severe muscle inactivity to induce rapid muscle deconditioning during a short period. During the DI, healthy adult men (n = 12; age: 32 ± 5) remained strictly immersed, in a supine position, in a controlled thermo‐neutral water bath. Skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis before and after 3 days of DI.

Results

We showed that DI for only 3 days was able to decrease myofiber cross‐sectional areas (−10.6%). Moreover, protein expression levels of two key markers commonly used to assess IMAT, perilipin, and fatty acid binding protein 4, were upregulated. We also observed an increase in the C/EBPα and PPARγ protein expression levels, indicating an increase in late adipogenic processes leading to IMAT development. While many stem cells in the muscle environment can adopt the capacity to differentiate into adipocytes, fibro‐adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) represent the population that appears to play a major role in IMAT development. In our study, we showed an increase in the protein expression of PDGFRα, the specific cell surface marker of FAPs, in response to 3 days of DI. It is well recognized that an unfavourable muscle environment drives FAPs to ectopic adiposity and/or fibrosis.

Conclusions

This study is the first to emphasize that during a short period of severe inactivity, muscle deconditioning is associated with IMAT development. Our study also reveals that FAPs could be the main resident muscle stem cell population implicated in ectopic adiposity development in human skeletal muscle.
Interferons and beyond: Induction of antiretroviral restriction factors
Authors: Hotter Dominik , Kirchhoff Frank
Published: December 2017

Antiviral restriction factors are structurally and functionally diverse cellular proteins that play a key role in the first line of defense against viral pathogens. Although many cell types constitutively express restriction factors at low levels, their induction in response to viral exposure and replication is often required for potent control and repulse of the invading pathogens. It is well established that type I IFNs efficiently induce antiviral restriction factors. Accumulating evidence suggests that other types of IFN, as well as specific cytokines, such as IL-27, and other activators of the cell are also capable of enhancing the expression of restriction factors and hence to establish an antiviral cellular state. Agents that efficiently induce restriction factors, increase their activity, and/or render them resistant against viral antagonists without causing general inflammation and significant side effects hold some promise for novel therapeutic or preventive strategies. In the present review, we summarize some of the current knowledge on the induction of antiretroviral restriction factors and perspectives for therapeutic application.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis: Rewiring host cell signaling to promote infection
Authors: Stutz Michael D , Clark Michelle P , Doerflinger Marcel , Pellegrini Marc
Published: December 2017

The ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to cause disease hinges upon successfully thwarting the innate defenses of the macrophage host cell. The pathogen's trump card is its armory of virulence factors that throw normal host cell signaling into disarray. This process of subverting the macrophage begins upon entry into the cell, when M. tuberculosis actively inhibits the fusion of the bacilli-laden phagosomes with lysosomes. The pathogen then modulates an array of host signal transduction pathways, which dampens the macrophage's host-protective cytokine response, while simultaneously adapting host cell metabolism to stimulate lipid body accumulation. Mycobacterium tuberculosis also renovates the surface of its innate host cells by altering the expression of key molecules required for full activation of the adaptive immune response. Finally, the pathogen coordinates its exit from the host cell by shifting the balance from the host-protective apoptotic cell death program toward a lytic form of host cell death. Thus, M. tuberculosis exploits its extensive repertoire of virulence factors in order to orchestrate the infection process to facilitate its growth, dissemination, and entry into latency. This review offers critical insights into the most recent advances in our knowledge of how M. tuberculosis manipulates host cell signaling. An appreciation of such interactions between the pathogen and host is critical for guiding novel therapies and understanding the factors that lead to the development of active disease in only a subset of exposed individuals.
Osteochondral repair using an acellular dermal matrix—pilot in vivo study in a rabbit osteochondral defect model
Authors: Ye Ken , Traianedes Kathy , Robins Shalley A. , Choong Peter F. M. , Myers Damian E.
Published: December 2017

The aim of this pilot project was to introduce a novel use of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) in combination with infrapatellar fat pad mesenchymal stromal cells (IPFP‐MSCs) to effect repair in a rabbit osteochondral defect model. ADM, in a range of surgical procedures, has been shown to promote remodelling of tissue at the site of implantation. Rabbit‐derived ADM (rabADM) was prepared from the skin of donor rabbits. Autologous IPFP‐MSCs were obtained at the time of knee surgery. Osteochondral defects (4 mm cartilage outer/2 mm central bone defect) were drilled into distal femoral condyles of 12 New Zealand White rabbits. Treatments groups: (i) defect only; (ii) rabADM alone; (iii) IPFP‐MSCs alone; and (iv) rabADM with IPFP‐MSCs. Condyles were harvested at 12 weeks, and analyzed using histology, immunohistochemistry (types I and II collagen) and histomorphometry to evaluate osteochondral repair. The rabADM only group achieved the highest ratio of type II to non‐type II collagen (77.3%) using areal measures (similar to normal cartilage), which indicated a higher quality of cartilage repair. The addition of IPFP‐MSCs, with or without rabADM, formed a fibrous collagen cap above the lesion site not seen with rabADM alone. Macroscopically, there was no joint erosion, inflammation, swelling or deformity, and all animals maintained full range of motion. Conclusions: RabADM alone resulted in neocartilage formation similar to native cartilage. IPFP‐MSCs limited osteochondral repair and contributed to fibrosis, even in combination with the rabADM. Further studies using ADM for osteochondral repair are warranted in a more appropriate pre‐clinical model of osteochondral repair. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1919–1928, 2018.
On‐site Raman study of artwork: Procedure and illustrative examples
Authors: Colomban Philippe
Published: December 2017

Raman microspectroscopy conducted with transportable/mobile instruments allows for the non‐invasive identification of amorphous and crystalline phases of ancient masterpieces and outstanding artworks (objects, paintings and décor, building parts, etc.). Resonance Raman spectroscopy detects chromophore and dye traces. On the basis of examples (enamelled glass and pottery, enamelled metal, patinated/corroded metal, stained glass, sculptures, paintings, pastels, and drawings), this mini review discusses the main parameters (laser and optics choice, experimental procedure, etc.) and shows how phase identification contributes to a better understanding of innovant technology exchanges.
High‐resolution and compact virtual mouse using lens arrays to capture finger images on light sensors
Authors: Qin Zong , Chang Yu‐Cheng , Su Yu‐Jie , Huang Yi‐Pai , Shieh Han‐Ping D.
Published: December 2017

To realize a finger positioning device, as called “virtual mouse,” to replace a touchpad, touchscreen, or even real mouse, current positioning technologies cannot achieve a sufficient resolution, a compact volume, and a simple detection algorithm simultaneously. For this problem, using a light‐emitting diode source, two lens arrays, and two light sensors, we design and implement a virtual mouse prototype. The optical architecture is carefully determined for a compact volume, a sufficient resolution, and a high detection accuracy. Corresponding to a compact system volume of 3.1 mm (thickness) × 4.5 mm (length) × 2, a theoretical resolution higher than 25 pixels per inch (ppi) can be obtained over a working area of 10 cm × 10 cm. Experiments are also implemented, in which a mean detection error of 0.24 cm that corresponds to approximately two distinguishable points, and a minimal resolution of 26 ppi over the whole working area are verified. If the system thickness is relaxed to 25 mm, a resolution higher than 200 ppi can be achieved. The proposed virtual mouse, which is simple enough and potential to be extended for three‐dimensional position detection, can be integrated with a flat panel display to achieve a compact display application that can interact with users.
Extracellular vesicles as drivers of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and carcinogenic characteristics in normal prostate cells
Authors: Souza Aline G. , B. Silva Isaura Beatriz , Campos‐Fernández Esther , Marangoni Karina , F. Bastos Victor A. , Alves Patrícia T. , Goulart Luiz R. , Alonso‐Goulart Vivian
Published: December 2017

There is increasing evidence that cancer dissemination and metastasis establishment may not only be due to the movement of tumor cells. Content of extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by tumor cells may also reflect the origin of these cells. Some molecules that constitute these EVs have already been used as targets for detection of specific tumors. However, to the best of our knowledge, EVs from biopsies and plasma have not yet been compared nor thoroughly investigated as triggers of malignant transformation and metastatic niche formation. To evaluate the role of EVs in the cellular microenvironment, we have treated the normal epithelial prostate cell lines, RWPE‐1 and PNT‐2, with a pool of EVs from biopsies of prostate primary tumors (bEVs), biopsies of benign prostate hyperplasia (hEVs), plasma of prostate cancer (PCa) patients (pEVs) or plasma of healthy individuals (pnEVs). Each of the four pools consisted of isolated EVs from several subjects, of which PCa patients were in different stages of cancer. Migration and proliferation profiles, cytokine release, and a panel of PCa‐associated genes' expression of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in the cell lines were evaluated after 24 h incubation with EVs. When compared to the control groups, cells treated with the pool of EVs isolated from tumor biopsies and plasma of PCa patients showed greater migration and proliferation, significant alterations in gene expression, and high levels of IL‐8, factors that are associated with cancer development. Specifically, isolated bEVs and pEVs may induce malignant features in non‐tumor cells by activating several cellular events associated with cancer progression, suggesting that future PCa therapy may target multiple elements found in tumor‐derived EVs.
Combination of surface and ‘vertical’ loop elements improves receive performance of a human head transceiver array at 9.4 T
Authors: Avdievich N.I. , Giapitzakis I.A. , Pfrommer A. , Borbath T. , Henning A.
Published: December 2017

Ultra‐high‐field (UHF, ≥7 T) human magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides undisputed advantages over low‐field MRI (≤3 T), but its development remains challenging because of numerous technical issues, including the low efficiency of transmit (Tx) radiofrequency (RF) coils caused by the increase in tissue power deposition with frequency. Tight‐fit human head transceiver (TxRx) arrays improve Tx efficiency in comparison with Tx‐only arrays, which are larger in order to fit multi‐channel receive (Rx)‐only arrays inside. A drawback of the TxRx design is that the number of elements in an array is limited by the number of available high‐power RF Tx channels (commonly 8 or 16), which is not sufficient for optimal Rx performance. In this work, as a proof of concept, we developed a method for increasing the number of Rx elements in a human head TxRx surface loop array without the need to move the loops away from a sample, which compromises the array Tx performance. We designed and constructed a prototype 16‐channel tight‐fit array, which consists of eight TxRx surface loops placed on a cylindrical holder circumscribing a head, and eight Rx‐only vertical loops positioned along the central axis (parallel to the magnetic field B0) of each TxRx loop, perpendicular to its surface. We demonstrated both experimentally and numerically that the addition of the vertical loops has no measurable effect on the Tx efficiency of the array. An increase in the maximum local specific absorption rate (SAR), evaluated using two human head voxel models (Duke and Ella), measured 3.4% or less. At the same time, the 16‐element array provided 30% improvement of central signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) in vivo relative to a surface loop eight‐element array. The novel array design also demonstrated an improvement in the parallel Rx performance in the transversal plane. Thus, using this method, both the Rx and Tx performance of the human head array can be optimized simultaneously.
Controlling aggregate formation in conjugated polymers by spin‐coating below the critical temperature of the disorder–order transition
Authors: Reichenberger Markus , Kroh Daniel , Matrone Giovanni M. M. , Schötz Konstantin , Pröller Stephan , Filonik Oliver , Thordardottir Margret E. , Herzig Eva M. , Bässler Heinz , Stingelin Natalie , Köhler Anna
Published: December 2017

Aggregates – that is short‐ranged ordered moieties in the solid‐state of π‐conjugated polymers – play an important role in the photophysics and performance of various optoelectronic devices. We have previously shown that many polymers change from a disordered to a more ordered conformation when cooling a solution below a characteristic critical temperature
. Using in situ time‐resolved absorption spectroscopy on the prototypical semiconducting polymers P3HT, PFO, PCPDTBT, and PCE11 (PffBT4T‐2OD), we show that spin‐coating at a temperature below
can enhance the formation of aggregates with strong intra‐chain coupling. An analysis of their time‐resolved spectra indicates that the formation of nuclei in the initial stages of film formation for substrates held below
seems responsible for this. We observe that the growth rate of the aggregates is thermally activated with an energy of 310 meV, which is much more than that of the solvent viscosity (100 meV). From this we conclude that the rate controlling step is the planarization of a chain that is associated with its attachment to a nucleation center. The success of our approach for the rather dynamic deposition method of spin‐coating holds promise for other solution‐based deposition methods. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 532–542
Successful refolding and NMR structure of rMagi3: A disulfide‐rich insecticidal spider toxin
Authors: Titaux‐Delgado Gustavo , Carrillo Elisa , Mendoza Angeles , Mayorga‐Flores Marlen , Escobedo‐González Fátima C. , Cano‐Sánchez Patricia , López‐Vera Estuardo , Corzo Gerardo , del Rio‐Portilla Federico
Published: December 2017

The need for molecules with high specificity against noxious insects leads the search towards spider venoms that have evolved highly selective toxins for insect preys. In this respect, spiders as a highly diversified group of almost exclusive insect predators appear to possess infinite potential for the discovery of novel insect‐selective toxins. In 2003, a group of toxins was isolated from the spider Macrothele gigas and the amino acid sequence was reported. We obtained, by molecular biology techniques in a heterologous system, one of these toxins. Purification process was optimized by chromatographic methods to determine the three‐dimensional structure by nuclear magnetic resonance in solution, and, finally, their biological activity was tested. rMagi3 resulted to be a specific insect toxin with no effect on mice.
Effect of core substituents on the intramolecular exchange interaction in N,N′‐dioxy‐2,6‐diazaadamantane biradical: DFT studies
Authors: Khafizov Nail R. , Mukhametgaleev Ravil , Madzhidov Timur I. , Kadkin Oleg N. , Antipin Igor S.
Published: December 2017

Density‐functional theory calculations of a series of organic biradicals on the basis of the N,N′‐dioxy‐2,6‐diazaadamantane core with different substituents at carbon atoms adjacent to the nitroxyl groups have been performed by the UB3LYP/6‐311++G(2d,2p) method. Using the breaking symmetry approach, the values of the exchange interaction parameter, J, between the radical centers are calculated. It is shown that the intramolecular exchange interaction for the most part is ferromagnetic in nature, but the J parameter gradually decreases, changing its sign to antiferromagnetic interaction for the last substituent in the following sequence: CF3(CH3)COH > CH2F(H)COH > CH2OH > H > CBr3 > CH2F > CCl3 > CF3 > CH2Br > CH2Cl > CH3 > C2H5 > C3H7 > i‐C4H9 > F > Br > OCH3 > Cl > CH2C6H5. The calculations at the UHSEH1PBE/6‐311++G(2d,2p) level with the most of substituents show nearly the same variation sequence for the J parameter. It is concluded that spin polarization effects in the diazaadamantane cage and a direct through‐space antiferromagnetic exchange interaction between the nitroxyl groups are the main mechanisms contributing to the exchange interaction parameter value in the studied series of compounds. The exchange coupling constant, J, depends on the electronic effects and geometry of the substituents, as well as on their specific interactions with the nitroxyl radical groups.
New protocol for compound‐specific radiocarbon analysis of archaeological bones
Authors: Deviese Thibaut , Comeskey Daniel , McCullagh James , Bronk Ramsey Christopher , Higham Thomas
Published: December 2017

Rationale

For radiocarbon results to be accurate, samples must be free of contaminating carbon. Sample pre‐treatment using a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) approach has been developed at the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit (ORAU) as an alternative to conventional methods for dating heavily contaminated bones. This approach isolates hydroxyproline from bone collagen, enabling a purified bone‐specific fraction to then be radiocarbon dated by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS).

Methods

Using semi‐preparative chromatography and non‐carbon‐based eluents, this technique enables the separation of underivatised amino acids liberated by hydrolysis of extracted bone collagen. A particular focus has been the isolation of hydroxyproline for single‐compound AMS dating since this amino acid is one of the main contributors to the total amount of carbon in mammalian collagen. Our previous approach, involving a carbon‐free aqueous mobile phase, required a two‐step separation using two different chromatographic columns.

Results

This paper reports significant improvements that have been recently made to the method to enable faster semi‐preparative separation of hydroxyproline from bone collagen, making the method more suitable for routine radiocarbon dating of contaminated and/or poorly preserved bone samples by AMS. All steps of the procedure, from the collagen extraction to the correction of the AMS data, are described.

Conclusions

The modifications to the hardware and to the method itself have reduced significantly the time required for the preparation of each sample. This makes it easier for other radiocarbon facilities to implement and use this approach as a routine method for preparing contaminated bone samples.
A partially linear additive model for clustered proportion data
Authors: Zhao Weihua , Lian Heng , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar
Published: December 2017

Proportion data with support lying in the interval [0,1] are a commonplace in various domains of medicine and public health. When these data are available as clusters, it is important to correctly incorporate the within‐cluster correlation to improve the estimation efficiency while conducting regression‐based risk evaluation. Furthermore, covariates may exhibit a nonlinear relationship with the (proportion) responses while quantifying disease status. As an alternative to various existing classical methods for modeling proportion data (such as augmented Beta regression) that uses maximum likelihood, or generalized estimating equations, we develop a partially linear additive model based on the quadratic inference function. Relying on quasi‐likelihood estimation techniques and polynomial spline approximation for unknown nonparametric functions, we obtain the estimators for both parametric part and nonparametric part of our model and study their large‐sample theoretical properties. We illustrate the advantages and usefulness of our proposition over other alternatives via extensive simulation studies, and application to a real dataset from a clinical periodontal study.
The Temperature Effect on the Structural Features of Bidentate Ligand‐Decorated Cyanide‐Bridged MnII‐MoV Compounds
Authors: Zhou Hu , Chen Qi , Yu Hui , Yan Xiu‐Fen , Yuan Ai‐Hua , Shen Xiao‐Ping
Published: December 2017

The diffusion reaction of Mn2+ ions, the bidentate ligand dabco, and [Mo(CN)8]3– units at different temperatures produced 2D layer [MnII(dabco)MoV(CN)8]2·[MnII(H2O)6]·2H2O (1) and 3D network [MnII(dabco)]2[MnII(CH3OH)4][MoV(CN)8]2·2H2O (2). Structural analysis revealed that there are two independent central Mn atoms (Mn1 and Mn2) in the structure for each compound, which exhibit trigonal bipyramid and octahedral arrangement, respectively. Notably, the coordination mode of the Mn2 unit between layers in both compounds was responsible for the resulting structural dimensionalities. The crystal growth process of final products was dominantly controlled by the kinetics. The isolation of both compounds provides an insight into the effect of crystallization temperatures on the formation and structural conversion of manganese octacyanometalates.
The PM&R Journal Implements a Social Media Strategy to Disseminate Research and Track Alternative Metrics in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Authors: Niehaus William N. , Silver Julie K. , Katz Matthew S.
Published: December 2017

Implementation science is an evolving part of translating evidence into clinical practice and public health policy. This report describes how a social media strategy for the journal PM&R using metrics, including alternative metrics, contributes to the dissemination of research and other information in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation. The primary goal of the strategy was to disseminate information about rehabilitation medicine, including but not limited to new research published in the journal, to health care professionals. Several different types of metrics were studied, including alternative metrics that are increasingly being used to demonstrate impact in academic medicine. A secondary goal was to encourage diversity and inclusion of the physiatric workforce—enhancing the reputations of all physiatrists by highlighting their research, lectures, awards, and other accomplishments with attention to those who may be underrepresented. A third goal was to educate the public so that they are more aware of the field and how to access care. This report describes the early results following initiation of PM&R's coordinated social media strategy. Through a network of social media efforts that are strategically integrated, physiatrists and their associated institutions have an opportunity to advance their research and clinical agendas, support the diverse physiatric workforce, and educate the public about the field to enhance patient awareness and access to care.
Glutaminolysis drives membrane trafficking to promote invasiveness of breast cancer cells
Authors: Dornier Emmanuel , Rabas Nicolas , Mitchell Louise , Novo David , Dhayade Sandeep , Marco Sergi , Mackay Gillian , Sumpton David , Pallares Maria , Nixon Colin , Blyth Karen , Macpherson Iain R. , Rainero Elena , Norman Jim C.
Published: December 2017

The role of glutaminolysis in providing metabolites to support tumour growth is well-established, but the involvement of glutamine metabolism in invasive processes is yet to be elucidated. Here we show that normal mammary epithelial cells consume glutamine, but do not secrete glutamate. Indeed, low levels of extracellular glutamate are necessary to maintain epithelial homoeostasis, and provision of glutamate drives disruption of epithelial morphology and promotes key characteristics of the invasive phenotype such as lumen-filling and basement membrane disruption. By contrast, primary cultures of invasive breast cancer cells convert glutamine to glutamate which is released from the cell through the system Xc- antiporter to activate a metabotropic glutamate receptor. This contributes to the intrinsic aggressiveness of these cells by upregulating Rab27-dependent recycling of the transmembrane matrix metalloprotease, MT1-MMP to promote invasive behaviour leading to basement membrane disruption. These data indicate that acquisition of the ability to release glutamate is a key watershed in disease aggressiveness.
Coupling ultracold atoms to a superconducting coplanar waveguide resonator
Authors: Hattermann H. , Bothner D. , Ley L. Y. , Ferdinand B. , Wiedmaier D. , Sárkány L. , Kleiner R. , Koelle D. , Fortágh J.
Published: December 2017

Ensembles of trapped atoms interacting with on-chip microwave resonators are considered as promising systems for the realization of quantum memories, novel quantum gates, and interfaces between the microwave and optical regime. Here, we demonstrate coupling of magnetically trapped ultracold Rb ground-state atoms to a coherently driven superconducting coplanar resonator on an integrated atom chip. When the cavity is driven off-resonance from the atomic transition, the microwave field strength in the cavity can be measured through observation of the AC shift of the atomic hyperfine transition frequency. When driving the cavity in resonance with the atoms, we observe Rabi oscillations between hyperfine states, demonstrating coherent control of the atomic states through the cavity field. These observations enable the preparation of coherent atomic superposition states, which are required for the implementation of an atomic quantum memory.
Synchronous reluctance machine geometry optimisation through a genetic algorithm based technique
Authors: Ruba Mircea , Jurca Florin , Czumbil Levente , Micu Dan D. , Martis Claudia , Polycarpou Alexis , Rizzo Renato
Published: December 2017

In this study, the design optimisation of a synchronous reluctance machine for light electric vehicles is proposed, to increase efficiency and reduce torque ripples. The existing machine was structurally optimised, using dedicated genetic algorithms, replacing only the rotor and keeping the stator and it's winding untouched. Starting from the original design of the rotor implemented in Flux2D, a finite element analysis software, and the genetic algorithm optimisation implemented in Matlab, a complex co‐simulation was accomplished to obtain a rotor architecture that increases the machine's performances and decreases the torque ripples. By this, performing rotor skewing is not needed any more, hence the torque loss due to it was cancelled. The optimised rotor design increases the machine performances by higher mean torque, no skewing, <8% torque ripples, higher efficiency and better inductance characteristics. Comparative results obtained both in simulations and experimental measurements prove positive outcomes of the optimisation process.
Design and implementation of single‐phase inverter without transformer for PV applications
Authors: L Ashok Kumar , V Indragandhi , N Sujith Kumar
Published: December 2017

For safety purposes, many photovoltaic (PV) systems are designed using galvanic isolation and transformers. The main problem in the existing topologies is that transformers are expensive, heavy and large. Another problem is that at conversion stage, the overall frequency is reduced. The efficiency of a PV inverter which is equipped with a transformer is usually between 91 and 94%. To tackle this issue, a transformerless (TL) PV system is proposed which has high efficiency and is lighter and cheaper. Due to stray capacitance, harmful leakage current will flow to the grid and PV array. H5, HERIC, H6 and oH5 are different types of existing TL inverter, and may be used to solve this problem. Each configuration has its drawbacks like shoot‐through issues of switches, high conduction losses, metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor reverse recovery issues, or to avoid shoot‐through fault when dead time requirements and grid voltage are nearly zero. The efficiency of the proposed TL inverter presented in this study is compared with other existing configurations. It shows that the proposed inverter efficiency is better than the conventional hard switching inverters. Moreover, to increase reliability, the inverters do not contain any shoot‐through issues.
Synthesis and photocatalytic properties of nano iron oxide
Authors: Shabanpour Shabnam , Riazian Mehran
Published: December 2017

In this research, iron oxide nanostructure is prepared from FeCl3 (iron chloride(III)) as a reactant by using the chemical co‐precipitation method and calcined at 600°C. In this method, the chemical and physical characteristics drastically depend on the precursors, precipitants and preparation procedure. In this approach, 1,2,4,5‐benzenetetracarboxylic acid, butanedioic acid, and hexanedioic acid are used as precipitants. The degradation rate of an organic pollutant dye (methylene blue) is investigated as a measure of photocatalytic activity. Nanostructure and photocatalytic activity are considered and studied by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet–vis spectrophotometry. The effect of precipitants on the structure, lattice strain, nano crystallite growth and photocatalytic performance is studied. It is found that hexanedioic acid has an impressive effect on the nanostructure and photocatalytic performance, as a precipitant compared with pyromellitic acid and butanedioic acid.
Corn Rootworm Larval Control, 1993
Authors: Hower Arthur A. , Alexander Sandra D.
Published: December 2017

Control of mixed populations of NCR and WCR was determined in 2 insecticide efficacy studies. Both experiments were conducted on separate fields approximately 1 mile apart at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, Centre County, PA. Corn was planted no-till on 18 May (in both experiments) using a John Deere Max-Emerge 2 row planter with 30-inch row spacing. Insecticides were applied to 5 × 40 ft plots in RCBD with 4 replications per treatment. Plants were counted on 7 Jun (Experiment 1) and 24 Jun (Experiment 2). Root damage ratings were evaluated 29 Jul (Experiment 1) and 30 Jul (Experiment 2) using the Iowa 1 to 6 system. Yield was determined by mechanically harvesting each plot for shelled corn on 18 Nov (in both experiments). Percent moisture was determined for each plot and adjusted to 15.5%.
Evaluation of Recommended Insecticides for Control of Cotton Aphid in Mississippi Cotton, 1993
Authors: Layton Blake , Varner Doyle
Published: December 2017

Treatments were applied on 8 Jul using a CO2-powered backpack sprayer calibrated to deliver 10 gal of finished spray per acre through 8001 nozzle tips at 40 psi. The plots, which were located in Tallahatchie County, were 8 rows wide × 50 ft long and were arranged in a RCBD with 4 replications. Samples were taken at 4 and 8 DAT by counting the number of aphids per leaf on 10 leaves per plot (5 leaves taken from the 4th node below the terminal and 5 taken from different randomly-selected plants from the 8th node below the terminal). The maximum number of aphids recorded per leaf was 100 regardless of how many aphids in excess of 100 were actually present. No rainfall occurred prior to the 4 DAT count.
Efficacy of Selected Pyrethroid Insecticides Against Boll Weevil and Tarnished Plant Bug in Cotton, 1993
Authors: Martin S. H. , Graves J. B. , White C. A. , Leonard B. R. , Clay P. A.
Published: December 2017

A test was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of selected pyrethroid insecticides against BW and TPB in irrigated cotton planted 15 Apr at the Macon Ridge Branch of the Northeast Research Station near Winnsboro, LA. The test consisted of a RBD with 4 replications of 5 row (1.02 m centers) × 15.2 m plots. The test was treated on 2, 6, 9, 12 and 15 Jul. All treatments were applied with a high clearance sprayer and CO2 charged delivery system calibrated to deliver 56.1 liters/ha at 2.8 kg/cm2 through 2, TX-8 nozzles equally spaced per row. Treatments were evaluated on 6, 9, 12, 15 and 19 Jul by visually examining 50 randomly picked squares per plot for boll weevil damage. Treatments were evaluated for tarnished plant bug control on 19 Jul with a standard 38 cm diam sweep net by counting the number of adults and nymphs in two-25 sweep samples/plot. The plots received 1.9 cm irrigation with overhead sprinklers on 14 Jul.
Evaluation of Seed Treatments for Thrips Control, 1993
Authors: Reed Jack T. , Jackson C. S.
Published: December 2017

Insecticides applied in-furrow were evaluated at the Plant Science Research Farm, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS. The trial was planted in an RCBD with 5 replications. Plots were 32 ft long by 4 rows wide (38 inch centers) without untreated buffer rows between plots. The soil type was Marietta sandy loam with 1.22% organic matter, 42.5% sand, 39.2% silt, 18.3% clay, and a pH of 7.4. The trial was planted 7 May under the following conditions: excellent soil moisture, soil temperature 84°F, 37.1% relative humidity and ambient temperature of 86°F. The seeding rate was 200 seed per row. Plots were planted with a Maxemerge planter equipped with Almaco seed cones and belt-cones for seed and granule application. Thrips were collected by cutting 10 plants per plot at their base and placing them into a self-sealing plastic bag for transfer to the laboratory. There the plants were washed with a bleach and soap solution onto gridded filter paper. Counts and initial species identification were made by dissection microscope.
Aphid Control in OAT, Lamberton, Mn, 1993
Authors: Noetzel David M. , Quiring Steve
Published: December 2017

This experiment was established in a bulk field of oat. Individual plots were 25 ft x 50 ft in size. Treatments were arranged in a RCBD, replicated 4 times. Applications of chemical were made at the flag leaf stage (Jun 28) in 20 gpa total material at 40 psi pressure. Plots were combined on Aug 5, the grain dried, and yields calculated based on 14% moisture.