bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microprinted Stem Cell Niches Reveal Compounding Effect of Colony Size on Stromal Cells‐Mediated Neural Differentiation
Authors: Joshi Ramila , Thakuri Pradip Shahi , Buchanan James C. , Li Jun , Tavana Hossein
Published: November 2017

Microenvironmental factors have a major impact on differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Here, a novel phenomenon that size of ESC colonies has a significant regulatory role on stromal cells induced differentiation of ESCs to neural cells is reported. Using a robotic cell microprinting technology, defined densities of ESCs are confined within aqueous nanodrops over a layer of supporting stromal cells immersed in a second, immiscible aqueous phase to generate ESC colonies of defined sizes. Temporal protein and gene expression studies demonstrate that larger ESC colonies generate disproportionally more neural cells and longer neurite processes. Unlike previous studies that attribute neural differentiation of ESCs solely to interactions with stromal cells, it is found that increased intercellular signaling of ESCs significantly enhances neural differentiation. This study offers an approach to generate neural cells with improved efficiency for potential use in translational research.
Photonic Crystal Phosphors Integrated on a Blue LED Chip for Efficient White Light Generation
Authors: Lee Jongho , Min Kyungtaek , Park Yeonsang , Cho Kyung‐Sang , Jeon Heonsu
Published: November 2017

Following the proof‐of‐concept experiment in the unit structure level, photonic crystal (PhC) phosphors—structurally engineered phosphor materials based on the nanophotonics principles—are integrated with a blue light‐emitting diode (LED) chip to demonstrate a compact and efficient white light source. Red‐ or green‐emitting CdSe‐based colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) are coated on a Si3N4 thin‐film grating to fabricate PhC phosphors. The underlying PhC structure is designed such that the photonic band‐edge modes at the zone center (k∣∣ = 0) are tuned to the energy of the blue excitation photons. By progressively stacking the PhC phosphor plates on a blue LED chip, the blue, green, and red emission intensities can be tightly controlled to obtain white light with the desired properties. The chromaticity coordinates, (0.332, 0.341), and correlated color temperature, 5500 K, are obtained from a stack of 3 red and 11 green PhC phosphor plates; in contrast, a stack of 5 red and 16 green reference phosphor plates are required to generate a similar white light. Overall, the PhC phosphors produce 8% higher total emission intensity out of 33% less amount of CQDs than the reference phosphors.
High‐Efficiency Dielectric Metasurfaces for Polarization‐Dependent Terahertz Wavefront Manipulation
Authors: Zhang Huifang , Zhang Xueqian , Xu Quan , Tian Chunxiu , Wang Qiu , Xu Yuehong , Li Yanfeng , Gu Jianqiang , Tian Zhen , Ouyang Chunmei , Zhang Xixiang , Hu Cong , Han Jiaguang , Zhang Weili
Published: November 2017

Recently, metasurfaces made up of dielectric structures have drawn enormous attentions in the optical and infrared regimes due to their high efficiency and designing freedom in manipulating light propagation. Such advantages can also be introduced to terahertz frequencies where efficient functional devices are still lacking. Here, polarization‐dependent all‐silicon terahertz dielectric metasurfaces are proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The metasurfaces are composed of anisotropic rectangular‐shaped silicon pillars on silicon substrate. Each metasurface holds dual different functions depending on the incident polarizations. Furthermore, to suppress the reflection loss and multireflection effect in practical applications, a high‐performance polarization‐independent antireflection silicon pillar array is also proposed, which can be patterned at the other side of the silicon substrate. Such all‐silicon dielectric metasurfaces are easy to fabricate and can be very promising in developing next‐generation efficient, compact, and low‐cost terahertz functional devices.
Unraveling Geometrical Site Confinement in Highly Efficient Iron‐Doped Electrocatalysts toward Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Hung Sung‐Fu , Hsu Ying‐Ya , Chang Chia‐Jui , Hsu Chia‐Shuo , Suen Nian‐Tzu , Chan Ting‐Shan , Chen Hao Ming
Published: November 2017

Introduction of iron in various catalytic systems has served a crucial function to significantly enhance the catalytic activity toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER), but the relationship between material properties and catalysis is still elusive. In this study, by regulating the distinctive geometric sites in spinel, Fe occupies the octahedral sites (Fe3+(Oh)) and confines Co to the tetrahedral site (Co2+(Td)), resulting in a strikingly high activity (ηj = 10 mA cm−2 = 229 mV and ηj = 100 mA cm−2 = 281 mV). Further enrichment of Fe ions would occupy the tetrahedral sites to decline the amount of Co2+(Td) and deteriorate the OER activity. It is also found that similar tafel slope and peak frequency in Bode plot of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicate that Co2+(Td) ions are primarily in charge of water oxidation catalytic center. By means of electrochemical techniques and in situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, it is proposed that Fe3+(Oh) ions mainly confine cobalt ions to the tetrahedral site to restrain the multipath transfer of cobalt ions during the dynamic structural transformation between spinel and oxyhydroxide, continuously activating the catalytic behavior of Co2+(Td) ions. This material‐related insight provides an indication for the design of highly efficient OER electrocatalysts.
Brass and Bronze as Effective CO2 Reduction Electrocatalysts
Authors: He Jingfu , Dettelbach Kevan E. , Huang Aoxue , Berlinguette Curtis P.
Published: November 2017

Electrochemically reducing CO2 into fuels using renewable electricity is a contemporary global challenge that requires significant advances in catalyst design. Photodeposition techniques were used to screen ternary alloys of Cu‐Zn‐Sn, which includes brass and bronze, for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO and formate. This analysis identified Cu0.2Zn0.4Sn0.4 and Cu0.2Sn0.8 to be capable of reaching Faradaic efficiencies of >80 % for CO and formate formation, respectively, and capable of achieving partial current densities of 3 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of merely 200 mV.
Shape‐Controllable and Fluorescent Supramolecular Organic Frameworks Through Aqueous Host–Guest Complexation
Authors: Li Yawen , Dong Yunhong , Miao Xiaran , Ren Yulin , Zhang Beilin , Wang Pinpin , Yu Yang , Li Bin , Isaacs Lyle , Cao Liping
Published: November 2017

Two kinds of shape‐controllable and fluorescent supramolecular organic frameworks (cuboid or spheroid) are constructed hierarchically from CB[8] and tetraphenylethylene derivatives through host–guest interaction in water. These two fluorescent SOFs exhibit intriguing and varied photophysical properties, including large red‐shifts (up to 82 nm) and stimuli‐responsive behavior to competitive guest by binding with CB[8], the turn‐on fluorescence of which is applied in cellular imaging.
Chagosendines A – C, New Metal Complexes of Imidazole Alkaloids from the Calcareous Sponge Leucetta chagosensis
Authors: An Bang , Yin Fuling , de Voogd Nicole J. , Chen Xiaoguang , Cheng Wei , Lin Wenhan
Published: November 2017

Chemical examination of the bright yellow sponge Leucetta chagosensis resulted in the isolation of three new imidazole‐based alkaloid complexes namely chagosendines A – C (1 – 3), together with known analogues pyronaamidine, naamidine J, and naamine C. Their structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic (IR, MS, NMR, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction) analysis in association with the chemical conversion. The isolated alkaloids together with three synthesized new homodimer complexes were evaluated for the cytotoxic activities against a panel of tumor cell lines. The copper complexes of imidazole alkaloids 2 and 3, as found from nature for the first time, exerted selective and remarkable activities against the tumor cell lines K562, HepG2, and HeLa.
Plunging ranula: surgical management of case series and the literature review
Authors: Olojede Akanbi Clement Olurotimi , Ogundana Oladunni Mojirayo , Emeka Christian Ibesi , Adewole Richard Ayodeji , Emmanuel Mubarak Mobolade , Gbotolorun Olalekan Micah , Ayodele Adesina Olumuyiwa , Oluseye Sunday Babatunde
Published: November 2017

Key Clinical Message

Plunging ranulas are rare; report of this condition is particularly limited in our environment. We present case series in children; with all cases having both oral and cervical components. It is important to note this type of presentation of plunging ranula and their appropriate management.
EBV‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis complicated by severe coagulation disorders and opportunistic infections: case report of a survivor
Authors: Saevels Kirsten , Robert Dominique , Van den Broeck Sylvie , Malfait Ronald , Gadisseur Alain , Jorens Philippe , Verlinden Anke
Published: November 2017

Key Clinical Message

The possibility of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis should always be kept in mind when examining/treating a patient with fever of unknown origin and sepsis‐like symptoms. Early diagnosis leading to prompt initiation of immunosuppressive therapy as well as aggressive supportive care, including correction of coagulation abnormalities and treatment of opportunistic infections, can decrease mortality.
Phosphorus‐Doped MoS2 Nanosheets Supported on Carbon Cloths as Efficient Hydrogen‐Generation Electrocatalysts
Authors: Bian Luozhen , Gao Wei , Sun Jiamin , Han Mingming , Li Fulin , Gao Zhaofeng , Shu Lei , Han Ning , Yang Zai‐xing , Song Aimin , Qu Yongquan , Ho Johnny C.
Published: November 2017

Highly efficient and stable non‐noble metal electrocatalysts for hydrogen generation are desired for sustainable development of energy conversion and storage. Here, a facile low‐temperature phosphidation process is developed for phosphorus doping into molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets directly synthesized on carbon cloths to function as an integrated electrode for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction. The optimal phosphorus‐doped (3.3 at%) MoS2 nanosheets exhibit substantially lower overpotentials of 133 and 189 mV to drive the current densities of 20 and 100 mA cm‐2, respectively, as compared with undoped MoS2, and an impressively small Tafel slope of 67.0 mV dec−1. The excellent stability in acid media also makes the phosphorus‐doped MoS2 nanosheet catalysts promising candidates for hydrogen generation in practical applications.
Optical Properties and Sequence Information of Tin‐Centered Conjugated Microporous Polymers
Authors: Uptmoor Andrea C. , Ilyas Ruben , Elbert Sven M. , Wacker Irene , Schröder Rasmus R. , Mastalerz Michael , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: November 2017

We synthesized conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) based on tetrakis(4‐ethynylphenyl)stannane and diiodobenzene as tectons, using Sonogashira couplings under different conditions. Through variation of the reaction conditions (catalysts, bases and solvents), appearance, surface area and emission properties of the formed CMPs were significantly altered. Wet‐chemical, acid‐mediated digestion and analysis of the resulting struts of these otherwise insoluble networks give insight into the molecular setup.
Drastic Effect of the Peptide Sequence on the Copper‐Binding Properties of Tripeptides and the Electrochemical Behaviour of Their Copper(II) Complexes
Authors: Mena Silvia , Mirats Andrea , Caballero Ana B. , Guirado Gonzalo , Barrios Leoní A. , Teat Simon J. , Rodriguez‐Santiago Luis , Sodupe Mariona , Gamez Patrick
Published: November 2017

The binding and electrochemical properties of the complexes CuII‐HAH, CuII‐HWH, CuII‐Ac‐HWH, CuII‐HHW, and CuII‐WHH have been studied by using NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopies, CV, and density functional calculations. The results obtained highlight the importance of the peptidic sequence on the coordination properties and, consequently, on the redox properties of their CuII complexes. For CuII‐HAH and CuII‐HWH, no cathodic processes are observed up to −1.2 V; that is, the complexes exhibit very high stability towards copper reduction. This behaviour is associated with the formation of very stable square‐planar (5,5,6)‐membered chelate rings (ATCUN motif), which enclose two deprotonated amides. In contrast, for non‐ATCUN CuII‐Ac‐HWH, CuII‐HHW complexes, simulations seem to indicate that only one deprotonated amide is enclosed in the coordination sphere. In these cases, the main electrochemical feature is a reductive irreversible one electron‐transfer process from CuII to CuI, accompanied with structural changes of the metal coordination sphere and reprotonation of the amide. Finally, for CuII‐WHH, two major species have been detected: one at low pH (<5), with no deprotonated amides, and another one at high pH (>10) with an ATCUN motif, both species coexisting at intermediate pH. The present study shows that the use of CV, using glassy carbon as a working electrode, is an ideal and rapid tool for the determination of the redox properties of CuII metallopeptides.
Highly Multiplexed Single‐Cell Protein Analysis
Authors: Mondal Manas , Liao Renjie , Guo Jia
Published: November 2017

Single‐cell proteomic analysis is crucial to advance our understanding of normal physiology and disease pathogenesis. The comprehensive protein profiling in individual cells of a heterogeneous sample can provide new insights into many important biological issues, such as the regulation of inter‐ and intracellular signaling pathways or the varied cellular compositions of normal and diseased tissues. With highly multiplexed molecular imaging of many different protein biomarkers in patient biopsies, diseases can be accurately diagnosed to guide the selection of the ideal treatment. In this Minireview, we will describe the recent technological advances of single‐cell proteomic assays, discuss their advantages and limitations, highlight their applications in biology and precision medicine, and present the current challenges and potential solutions.
Binding of Hydrophobic Guests in a Coordination Cage Cavity is Driven by Liberation of “High‐Energy” Water
Authors: Metherell Alexander J. , Cullen William , Williams Nicholas H. , Ward Michael D.
Published: November 2017

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Michael D. Ward at the Universities of Warwick and Sheffield. The image depicts the ‘hydrophobic effect’ that is responsible for guest binding in the host cavity. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201704163.
The peripheral nervous system of the ascidian tadpole larva: Types of neurons and their synaptic networks
Authors: Ryan Kerrianne , Lu Zhiyuan , Meinertzhagen Ian A.
Published: November 2017

Physical and chemical cues from the environment are used to direct animal behavior through a complex network of connections originating in exteroceptors. In chordates, mechanosensory and chemosensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) must signal to the motor circuits of the central nervous system (CNS) through a series of pathways that integrate and regulate the output to motor neurons (MN); ultimately these drive contraction of the tail and limb muscles. We used serial‐section electron microscopy to reconstruct PNS neurons and their hitherto unknown synaptic networks in the tadpole larva of a sibling chordate, the ascidian, Ciona intestinalis. The larva has groups of neurons in its apical papillae, epidermal neurons in the rostral and apical trunk, caudal neurons in the dorsal and ventral epidermis, and a single tail tip neuron. The connectome reveals that the PNS input arises from scattered groups of these epidermal neurons, 54 in total, and has three main centers of integration in the CNS: in the anterior brain vesicle (which additionally receives input from photoreceptors of the ocellus), the motor ganglion (which contains five pairs of MN), and the tail, all of which in turn are themselves interconnected through important functional relay neurons. Some neurons have long collaterals that form autapses. Our study reveals interconnections with other sensory systems, and the exact inputs to the motor system required to regulate contractions in the tail that underlie larval swimming, or to the CNS to regulate substrate preference prior to the induction of larval settlement and metamorphosis.
Bio‐inspired Photocatalytic Ruthenium Complexes: Synthesis, Optical Properties, and Solvatochromic Effect
Authors: Weissman Adam , Amir Dan , Elias Yuval , Pinkas Iddo , Mathias Jenny‐Lee , Benisvy Laurent , Salomon Adi
Published: November 2017

We report the synthesis, characterization, and photo‐physical properties of two new rutheniumII‐phenol‐imidazole complexes. These bio‐mimetic complexes have potential as photocatalysts for water splitting. Owing to their multiple phenol‐imidazole groups, they have a higher probability of light‐induced radical formation than existing complexes. The newly synthesized complexes show improved overlap with the solar spectrum compared to other rutheniumII‐phenol‐imidazole complexes, and their measured lifetimes are suitable for light‐induced radical formation. In addition, we conducted solvatochromic absorption measurements, which elegantly follow Marcus theory, and demonstrate the symmetry differences between the two complexes. The solvatochromic measurements further imply electron localization onto one of the ligands. The new complexes may find applications in photocatalysis, dye‐sensitized solar cells, biomedicine, and sensing. Moreover, their multiple chelating units make them promising candidates for light‐activated metal organic radical frameworks, i.e. metal‐organic frameworks that contain organic radicals activated by light.
A high‐voltage gain nonisolated noncoupled inductor based multi‐input DC‐DC topology with reduced number of components for renewable energy systems
Authors: Varesi Kazem , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Sabahi Mehran , Babaei Ebrahim
Published: November 2017

This paper proposes a modular nonisolated noncoupled inductor‐based high‐voltage gain multi‐input DC‐DC converter. Despite the high‐voltage gain of the proposed topology, the average of normalized voltage stress (NVS) on its switches/diodes is low. This property leads to less loss and cost of switches/diodes. Using the same number of components, the proposed topology produces higher voltage gains, in comparison with recently presented high step‐up topologies. Also, the proposed topology utilizes less number of components (capacitors, inductors, diodes, and switches) for producing a desired voltage gain, which can reduce the size, mass, cost, complexity, and losses and improve the efficiency of converter. Continuous current of input sources is another main advantage of the proposed topology. All the abovementioned characteristics have made the proposed topology very suitable for renewable energy systems (or even hybrid/electric vehicles). Design considerations of the proposed topology have also been presented. For better evaluation, the proposed topology has been compared with some of recently presented high step‐up structures, from viewpoints of producible voltage gain, number of components, and normalized voltage stress (NVS) on switches/diodes. Finally, the prototype of 2‐input version has been experimentally implemented. Obtained experimental results confirm appropriate performance of the proposed topology.
Sacubitril/valsartan reduces serum uric acid concentration, an independent predictor of adverse outcomes in PARADIGM‐HF
Authors: Mogensen Ulrik M. , Køber Lars , Jhund Pardeep S. , Desai Akshay S. , Senni Michele , Kristensen Søren L. , Dukát Andrej , Chen Chen‐Huan , Ramires Felix , Lefkowitz Martin P. , Prescott Margaret F. , Shi Victor C. , Rouleau Jean L. , Solomon Scott D. , Swedberg Karl , Packer Milton , McMurray John J.V. ,   on behalf of the PARADIGM‐HF Investigators and Committees
Published: November 2017

Aims

Elevated serum uric acid concentration (SUA) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but this may be due to unmeasured confounders. We examined the association between SUA and outcomes as well as the effect of sacubitril/valsartan on SUA in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in PARADIGM‐HF.

Methods and results

The association between SUA and the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death or heart failure (HF) hospitalization, its components, and all‐cause mortality was examined using Cox regression analyses among 8213 patients using quintiles (Q1–Q5) of SUA adjusted for baseline prognostic variables including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), diuretic dose, and log N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide. Change in SUA from baseline over 12 months was also evaluated in each treatment group. Patients in Q5 (SUA ≥8.6 mg/dL) compared with Q1 (<5.4 mg/dL) were younger (62.8 vs. 64.2 years), more often male (88.7% vs. 63.1%), had lower systolic blood pressure (119 vs. 123 mmHg), lower eGFR (57.4 vs. 76.6 mL/min/1.73 m2), and greater diuretic use. Higher SUA was associated with a higher risk of the primary outcome (adjusted hazard ratios) Q5 vs. Q1 = 1.28 [95% confidence intervals (1.09–1.50), P = 0.003], cardiovascular death [1.44 (1.11–1.77), P = 0.001], HF hospitalization [1.37 (1.11–1.70), P = 0.004], and all‐cause mortality [1.36 (1.13–1.64), P = 0.001]. Compared with enalapril, sacubitril/valsartan reduced SUA by 0.24 (0.17–0.32) mg/dL over 12 months (P < 0.0001). Sacubitril/valsartan improved outcomes, irrespective of SUA concentration.

Conclusion

Serum uric acid concentration was an independent predictor of worse outcomes after multivariable adjustment in patients with HFrEF. Compared with enalapril, sacubitril/valsartan reduced SUA and improved outcomes irrespective of SUA.
Estimating the number of potential family members eligible for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation testing in a “Traceback” approach
Authors: Moss Haley A. , Samimi Goli , Havrilesky Laura J. , Sherman Mark E. , Myers Evan R.
Published: November 2017

U.S. guidelines recommend BRCA1/2 mutation testing for women diagnosed with high‐grade ovarian cancer (HGOC) to increase recognition of carriers, but most remain unidentified and at risk. Accordingly, an approach termed “Traceback” has been proposed in which probands are retrospectively identified by testing archived pathology specimens, and family members are traced to provide genetic counseling and testing. We used population‐based data to estimate the number of family members who might be contacted through such a program. We used incidence data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program to estimate the number of women diagnosed with HGOC from 2005 to 2016, and census data to estimate the number of spouses, offspring, and siblings (both sexes). Using overall survival for HGOC from SEER and all‐cause mortality rates from the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention, we estimated the number of patients, spouses, offspring, and siblings of HGOC cases living in 2017. Due to the high mortality rate of HGOC, consent from living probands may be possible in only 42% of the cases; consent to test pathology specimens would need to be sought from next of kin for the remainder. In 2017, an estimated 406,919 living next of kin (spouses, siblings, offspring) would be available for potential consent. Testing archived ovarian cancer pathology specimens may enable the identification of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, but consent from next of kin would be required in in 58% of cases. Although Traceback offers the possibility of identifying unaffected BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, pilot feasibility studies that include assessment of methods to secure consent are needed.
JAK3 and PI3K mediate bovine Interferon‐tau stimulated gene expression in the blood neutrophils
Authors: Sheikh Aasif Ahmad , Hooda Om Kanwar , Dang Ajay Kumar
Published: November 2017

Interferon tau, a 23 kDa trophoblast derived protein diffuses out from the uterus into the circulation and leads to the expression of IFNτ stimulated genes viz. ISG15 and OAS1 in blood neutrophils. The IFNτ pathway is species as well as tissue specific. To unsnarl the IFNτ downstream signaling pathway, the blood neutrophils were incubated simultaneously with 10 ng/ml of recombinant bovine interferon tau and the inhibitors of JAK2 (AG490), JAK3 (CP690550), p38 (SB202190), PI3K/Akt (LY294002), and MAPK/Erk (U0126) at specific doses for 4‐hr duration. The IFNτ pathway was determined through real‐time gene expression of ISG15 and OAS1; immunocytochemistry of ISG15; and Western blotting of ISG15, OAS1, pJAK3 and PI3K. The ISG15 and OAS1 expression decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in the presence of pJAK3 and PI3K inhibitors as compared to a positive control where only interferon tau was used. Immunocytochemistry revealed an attenuated ISG15 response while stimulating blood neutrophils with pJAK3 inhibitor (CP690550) and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002). Similarly, Western blot analysis of neutrophil protein fraction showed weak signals of ISG15, OAS1, pJAK3 and PI3K in the presence of pJAK3 and PI3K inhibitors. The expression profile, immunocytochemistry and western blot analysis revealed a JAK3 and PI3K mediated interferon‐tau stimulated gene expression in blood neutrophils.
Gallic acid mediated oxidation of pentachlorophenol by the Fenton reaction under mild oxidative conditions
Authors: Christoforidis Konstantinos C , Vasiliadou Ioanna A , Louloudi Maria , Deligiannakis Yiannis
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

The present study demonstrates the decomposition of pentachlorophenol (PCP) by the Fenton reaction in the presence of gallic acid (GA). Unlike other studies, catalytic Fe2+ concentrations were used with respect to PCP in an effort to evaluate an environmentally benign Fenton system, studying the effect of phenolic‐type compounds widely found in the environment. The effect of operating variables was evaluated.

RESULTS

At initial reaction times or at low H2O2 and Fe concentrations, GA enhanced PCP removal. At high H2O2 and Fe concentrations GA enhanced PCP removal only at initial reaction times. GA was the determinant factor controlling activity acting both as a chelating agent and reducer of Fe3+. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was applied to shed light on mechanistic aspects, verifying the interaction of GA with Fe ions. GA accelerated significantly the Fe3+/Fe2+ redox cycling. This enhanced the formation of hydroxyl radicals (HO·) as confirmed by in situ EPR spin trap experiments. A reaction mechanism was proposed including the redox cycle of GA quinoide forms.

CONCLUSION

The operational variables of a GA modified Fenton system are provided and mechanistic steps are discussed including PCP degradation, GA/Fe interaction, Fe3+/Fe2+ redox cycling and HO· formation. GA concentration controls the catalytic degradation of PCP. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Human mesenchymal stem cells induced to differentiate as chondrocytes follow a biphasic pattern of extracellular matrix production
Authors: Sorrell J. Michael , Somoza Rodrigo A. , Caplan Arnold I.
Published: November 2017

Regenerative medicine and tissue engineering studies are actively developing novel means to repair adult articular cartilage defects using biological approaches. One such approach is the harnessing of adult human therapeutic cells such as those referred to as mesenchymal stem cells. Upon exposure to chondrogenic signals, these cells differentiate and initiate the production of a complex and voluminous cartilaginous matrix that is crucial to both the structure and function of cartilage. Furthermore, this complexity requires the time‐sensitive activation of a large number of genes to produce the components of this matrix. The current study analyzed the kinetics of matrix production in an aggregate culture model where adult human mesenchymal stem cells were induced to differentiate as chondrocytes. The results indicate the existence of a biphasic mode of differentiation and maturation during which matrix genes and molecules are differentially activated and secreted. These results have important implications for developing novel approaches for the creation of tissue engineered articular cartilage. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1757–1766, 2018.
MicroRNAs in orthopaedic research: Disease associations, potential therapeutic applications, and perspectives
Authors: McAlinden Audrey , Im Gun‐Il
Published: November 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that function to control many cellular processes by their ability to suppress expression of specific target genes. Tens to hundreds of target genes may be affected by one miRNA, thereby resulting in modulation of multiple pathways in any given cell type. Therefore, altered expression of miRNAs (i.e., during tissue development or in scenarios of disease or cellular stress) can have a profound impact on processes regulating cell differentiation, metabolism, proliferation, or apoptosis, for example. Over the past 5–10 years, thousands of reports have been published on miRNAs in cartilage and bone biology or disease, thus highlighting the significance of these non‐coding RNAs in regulating skeletal development and homeostasis. For the purpose of this review, we will focus on miRNAs or miRNA families that have demonstrated function in vivo within the context of cartilage, bone or other orthopaedic‐related tissues (excluding muscle). Specifically, we will discuss studies that have utilized miRNA transgenic mouse models or in vivo approaches to target a miRNA with the aim of altering conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and bone fractures in rodents. We will not discuss miRNAs in the context skeletal cancers since this topic is worthy of a review of its own. Overall, we aim to provide a comprehensive description of where the field currently stands with respect to the therapeutic potential of specific miRNAs to treat orthopaedic conditions and current technologies to target and modify miRNA function in vivo. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:33–51, 2018.
Systemic therapy in retroperitoneal sarcoma management
Authors: Constantinidou Anastasia , Jones Robin L.
Published: November 2017

There is paucity of randomized controlled data on the role of systemic therapy in retroperitoneal sarcomas. The type of systemic therapy used is guided by the histological subtype. The majority of retroperitoneal sarcomas comprising liposarcomas and leiomyosarcomas are by and large chemotherapy insensitive. There is an urgent need for more efficacious systemic therapies in the management of early and advanced stage retroperitoneal sarcomas.
Long‐term herpetofaunal response to repeated fuel reduction treatments
Authors: Greenberg Cathryn H. , Moorman Christopher E. , Matthews‐Snoberger Charlotte E. , Waldrop Thomas A. , Simon Dean , Heh Amanda , Hagan Donald
Published: November 2017

Fuel reduction treatments are used to reduce wildfire risk and to restore plant communities. Yet, repeated mechanical or prescribed fire treatments may gradually change forest structure and microhabitat conditions, favoring some taxa and decreasing suitability for others. We experimentally assessed long‐term (intermittent years, 2003–2016) effects of repeated dormant‐season mechanical and prescribed fire treatments on capture rates of reptiles and amphibians in southern Appalachian upland hardwood forests. Treatments were mechanical understory removal (twice), prescribed burning (4 times; burn‐only), mechanical understory removal followed 1 year later by high‐severity prescribed burns and 3 subsequent burns (mechanical + burn), and untreated controls. Initial burns were hotter in mechanical + burn than burn‐only units, resulting in heavy tree mortality and increased canopy openness within 2 growing‐seasons post‐burn. We captured 4,606 individuals of 15 amphibian and 20 reptile species. Capture rates of American toads (Anaxyrus americanus), green frogs (Lithobates clamitans), plethodontid salamanders (Plethodon spp.), and northern red salamanders (Pseudotriton ruber) were not affected by any fuel reduction treatment. The capture rate of five‐lined skinks (Plestiodon fasciatus) was greater in mechanical + burn than burn‐only or control units, and the capture rate of eastern fence lizards (Sceloporus undulatus) was greater in mechanical + burn than control units. Juvenile eastern fence lizard captures were greater in mechanical + burn units and increased over time, indicating that high‐severity burning followed by repeated burns may improve conditions for successful recruitment. Different responses among species highlight the importance of including multiple taxa when assessing effects of forest disturbances on wildlife, and give perspective on how forest health may vary depending on target taxa. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Terrestrial carbon inputs to inland waters: A current synthesis of estimates and uncertainty
Authors: Drake Travis W. , Raymond Peter A. , Spencer Robert G. M.
Published: November 2017

Globally, inland waters receive a significant but ill‐defined quantity of terrestrial carbon (C). When summed, the contemporary estimates for the three possible fates of C in inland waters (storage, outgassing, and export) highlight that terrestrial landscapes may deliver upward of 5.1 Pg of C annually. This review of flux estimates over the last decade has revealed an average increase of ∼ 0.3 Pg C yr−1, indicating a historical underestimation of the amount of terrestrial‐C exported to inland waters. The continual increase in the estimates also underscores large data gaps and uncertainty. As research continues to refine these aquatic fluxes, especially C outgassed from the humid tropics and other understudied regions, we expect the global estimate of terrestrial‐C transferred to inland waters to rise. An important implication of this upward refinement is that terrestrial net ecosystem production may be overestimated with ramifications for modeling of the global C cycle.
Local Ramsey theory: an abstract approach
Authors: Di Prisco Carlos , Mijares José G. , Nieto Jesús
Published: November 2017

Given a topological Ramsey space , we extend the notion of semiselective coideal to sets and study conditions for that will enable us to make the structure a Ramsey space (not necessarily topological) and also study forcing notions related to which will satisfy abstract versions of interesting properties of the corresponding forcing notions in the realm of Ellentuck's space (cf. [][]). This extends results from [][] to the most general context of topological Ramsey spaces. As applications, we prove that for every topological Ramsey space , under suitable large cardinal hypotheses every semiselective ultrafilter is generic over ; and that given a semiselective coideal , every definable subset of is ‐Ramsey. This generalizes the corresponding results for the case when is equal to Ellentuck's space (cf. [][]).
Association of MGMT promoter methylation with tumorigenesis features in patients with ovarian cancer: A systematic meta‐analysis
Authors: Qiao Baoli , Zhang Zhenyu , Li Yanfang
Published: November 2017

Background

The MGMT is a key tumor suppressor gene and aberrant promoter methylation has been reported in many cancers. However, the relationship between MGMT promoter methylation and ovarian cancer remains controversial. This meta‐analysis was first conducted to estimate the clinical significance of MGMT promoter methylation in ovarian carcinoma.

Methods

Literature search was performed in the PubMed, Embase, EBSCO and Cochrane Library databases. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were summarized.

Results

Final 10 studies with 910 ovarian tissue samples were included in this meta‐analysis. MGMT promoter methylation was significantly higher in ovarian cancer than in normal ovarian tissues (OR = 4.13, 95% CI = 2.32–7.33, p < .001). The MGMT had a similar methylation status in cancer versus benign lesions and low malignant potential (LMP) samples (OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 0.67–6.04, p = .212; OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 0.46–4.40, p = .543; respectively). MGMT promoter methylation was correlated with pathological types in which it was significantly lower in serous cancer than in nonserous cancer (OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.14–0.59, p = .001). The methylation of the MGMT promoter was not associated with clinical stage and tumor grade (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 0.71–3.02, p = .301; OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.51–2.46, p = .767; respectively).

Conclusions

MGMT promoter methylation may be correlated with the tumorigenesis of ovarian cancer. It was associated with tumor histotypes, but not correlated with clinical stage and tumor grade. More prospective studies with lager sample sizes are necessary in the future.
Investigation of Electrical and Thermal Properties of Reduced Graphene Oxide–Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes/PMMA Hybrid Nanocomposite
Authors: Sa Kadambinee , Mahakul Prakash Chandra , Saha Sunirmal , Behara Dhrubananda , Vishwakarma Prakash Nath , Mahanandia Pitamber
Published: November 2017

Electrical and thermal properties of the hybrid composites, prepared using reduced graphene oxide (rGO), multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) have been investigated. In this hybrid composite, the effect of rGO wt.% in MWCNTs/PMMA composite has been investigated. The investigation demonstrates that the rGO–MWCNTs/PMMA hybrid composite achieved considerable improvements in electrical properties compared to the MWCNTs/PMMA and rGO/PMMA composites. The hybrid nanocomposite exhibits a percolation threshold of around 0.743 wt.% which is less than that of MWCNTs/PMMA () and rGO/PMMA () composites and has a maximum conductivity of 1.546 × 10−1 S cm−1 with a filler content of 6 wt.% rGO. The experimentally observed improved electrical and thermal properties as a result of increased rGO wt.% in MWCNTs/PMMA are attributed to a synergistic effect of MWCNTs and rGO. The experimentally observed physical properties of the rGO–MWNTs/PMMA nanocomposite suggest it as potential material for future applications.
Curcumin, an antibiotic resistance breaker against a multiresistant clinical isolate of Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Marini Emanuela , Di Giulio Mara , Magi Gloria , Di Lodovico Silvia , Cimarelli Maria Enrica , Brenciani Andrea , Nostro Antonia , Cellini Luigina , Facinelli Bruna
Published: November 2017

Curcumin, a phenolic compound extracted from Curcuma longa, exerts multiple pharmacological effects, including an antimicrobial action. Mycobacterium abscessus, an environmental, nontuberculous, rapidly growing mycobacterium, is an emerging human pathogen causing serious lung infections and one of the most difficult to treat, due to its multidrug resistance and biofilm‐forming ability. We wanted to evaluate the antimicrobial and antivirulence activity of curcumin and its ability to synergize with antibiotics against a clinical M. abscessus strain (29904), isolated from the bronchoaspirate of a 66‐year‐old woman admitted to hospital for suspected tuberculosis. Curcumin [minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) = 128 mg/L] was synergic (fractional inhibitory concentration index ≤0.5) with amikacin, clarithromycin, ciprofloxacin, and linezolid, to which strain 29904 showed resistance/intermediate susceptibility. Curcumin at 1/8 × MIC significantly reduced motility, whereas at 4 × MIC, it completely inhibited 4‐ and 8‐day mature biofilms. Synergistic combinations of curcumin and amikacin induced a general reduction in microbial aggregates and substantial loss in cell viability. Disruption of 4‐ and 8‐day biofilms was the main effect detected when curcumin was the predominant compound. The present findings support previous evidence that curcumin is a potential antibiotic resistance breaker. Curcumin, either alone or combined with antibiotics, could provide a novel strategy to combat antibiotic resistance and virulence of M. abscessus.
Toward Wearable Self‐Charging Power Systems: The Integration of Energy‐Harvesting and Storage Devices
Authors: Pu Xiong , Hu Weiguo , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: November 2017

One major challenge for wearable electronics is that the state‐of‐the‐art batteries are inadequate to provide sufficient energy for long‐term operations, leading to inconvenient battery replacement or frequent recharging. Other than the pursuit of high energy density of secondary batteries, an alternative approach recently drawing intensive attention from the research community, is to integrate energy‐generation and energy‐storage devices into self‐charging power systems (SCPSs), so that the scavenged energy can be simultaneously stored for sustainable power supply. This paper reviews recent developments in SCPSs with the integration of various energy‐harvesting devices (including piezoelectric nanogenerators, triboelectric nanogenerators, solar cells, and thermoelectric nanogenerators) and energy‐storage devices, such as batteries and supercapacitors. SCPSs with multiple energy‐harvesting devices are also included. Emphasis is placed on integrated flexible or wearable SCPSs. Remaining challenges and perspectives are also examined to suggest how to bring the appealing SCPSs into practical applications in the near future.
Master integrals for the NNLO virtual corrections to μe scattering in QED: the planar graphs
Authors: Mastrolia Pierpaolo , Passera Massimo , Primo Amedeo , Schubert Ulrich
Published: November 2017

Abstract

We evaluate the master integrals for the two-loop, planar box-diagrams contributing to the elastic scattering of muons and electrons at next-to-next-to leading-order in QED. We adopt the method of differential equations and the Magnus exponential series to determine a canonical set of integrals, finally expressed as a Taylor series around four space-time dimensions, with coefficients written as combination of generalised polylogarithms. The electron is treated as massless, while we retain full dependence on the muon mass. The considered integrals are also relevant for crossing-related processes, such as di-muon production ate+e−-colliders, as well as for the QCD corrections totop-pair production at hadron colliders.
On the Parisian ruin of the dual Lévy risk model
Authors: Yang Chen , Sendova Kristian P. , Li Zhong
Published: November 2017

In this paper we investigate the Parisian ruin problem of the general dual Lévy risk model. Unlike the usual concept of ultimate ruin, allowing the surplus level to be negative within a prespecified period indicates that the deficit at Parisian ruin is not necessarily equal to zero. Hence, we consider a Gerber–Shiu type expected discounted penalty function at the Parisian ruin and obtain an explicit expression for this function under the dual Lévy risk model. As particular cases, we calculate the Parisian ruin probability and the expected discountedkth moments of the deficit at the Parisian ruin for the compound Poisson dual risk model and a drift-diffusion model. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the behavior of Parisian ruin and the expected discounted deficit at Parisian ruin.
The Psychophysiology of Anxiety and Mood Disorders
Authors: Lang Peter J. , McTeague Lisa M. , Bradley Margaret M.
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Several decades of research are reviewed, assessing patterns of psychophysiological reactivity in anxiety patients responding to a fear/threat imagery challenge. Findings show substantive differences in these measures within principal diagnostic categories, questioning the reliability and categorical specificity of current diagnostic systems. Following a new research framework (US National Institute of Mental Health [NIMH], Research Domain Criteria [RDoC]; Cuthbert & Insel, 2013 ), dimensional patterns of physiological reactivity are explored in a large sample of anxiety and mood disorder patients. Patients’ responses (e.g., startle reflex, heart rate) during fear/threat imagery varied significantly with higher questionnaire measured “negative affect,” stress history, and overall life dysfunction – bio-marking disorder groups, independent of Diagnostic and Statistical Manuals (DSM). The review concludes with a description of new research, currently underway, exploring brain function indices (structure activation, circuit connectivity) as potential biological classifiers (collectively with the reflex physiology) of anxiety and mood pathology.
Intercalation events visualized in single microcrystals of graphite
Authors: White Edward R. , Lodico Jared J. , Regan B. C.
Published: November 2017

The electrochemical intercalation of layered materials, particularly graphite, is fundamental to the operation of rechargeable energy-storage devices such as the lithium-ion battery and the carbon-enhanced lead-acid battery. Intercalation is thought to proceed in discrete stages, where each stage represents a specific structure and stoichiometry of the intercalant relative to the host. However, the three-dimensional structures of the stages between unintercalated and fully intercalated are not known, and the dynamics of the transitions between stages are not understood. Using optical and scanning transmission electron microscopy, we video the intercalation of single microcrystals of graphite in concentrated sulfuric acid. Here we find that intercalation charge transfer proceeds through highly variable current pulses that, although directly associated with structural changes, do not match the expectations of the classical theories. Evidently random nanoscopic defects dominate the dynamics of intercalation.
Nemertean and phoronid genomes reveal lophotrochozoan evolution and the origin of bilaterian heads
Authors: Luo Yi-Jyun , Kanda Miyuki , Koyanagi Ryo , Hisata Kanako , Akiyama Tadashi , Sakamoto Hirotaka , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Satoh Noriyuki
Published: November 2017

Nemerteans (ribbon worms) and phoronids (horseshoe worms) are closely related lophotrochozoans—a group of animals including leeches, snails and other invertebrates. Lophotrochozoans represent a superphylum that is crucial to our understanding of bilaterian evolution. However, given the inconsistency of molecular and morphological data for these groups, their origins have been unclear. Here, we present draft genomes of the nemertean Notospermus geniculatus and the phoronid Phoronis australis, together with transcriptomes along the adult bodies. Our genome-based phylogenetic analyses place Nemertea sister to the group containing Phoronida and Brachiopoda. We show that lophotrochozoans share many gene families with deuterostomes, suggesting that these two groups retain a core bilaterian gene repertoire that ecdysozoans (for example, flies and nematodes) and platyzoans (for example, flatworms and rotifers) do not. Comparative transcriptomics demonstrates that lophophores of phoronids and brachiopods are similar not only morphologically, but also at the molecular level. Despite dissimilar head structures, lophophores express vertebrate head and neuronal marker genes. This finding suggests a common origin of bilaterian head patterning, although different heads evolved independently in each lineage. Furthermore, we observe lineage-specific expansions of innate immunity and toxin-related genes. Together, our study reveals a dual nature of lophotrochozoans, where conserved and lineage-specific features shape their evolution.