bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recognition of early mortality in multiple myeloma by a prediction matrix
Authors: Terebelo Howard , Srinivasan Shankar , Narang Mohit , Abonour Rafat , Gasparetto Cristina , Toomey Kathleen , Hardin James W. , Larkins Gail , Kitali Amani , Rifkin Robert M. , Shah Jatin J.
Published: May 2017

Early mortality (EM; death ≤ 6 months from diagnosis) has been reported in several newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) trials. Before the era of novel agents, the incidence was 10%‐14%. Causes of death included infections/pneumonia, renal failure, refractory disease, and cardiac events. Staging systems, such as the revised International Staging System (r‐ISS), and prognostic factors including cytogenetics, lactate dehydrogenase levels, and myeloma‐specific factors, are useful to assess overall prognosis; however, they cannot predict EM. We evaluated patients treated with novel agents in the Connect MM® Registry and identified risk factors of the EM cohort. Eligible patients were enrolled in the registry within 60 days of diagnosis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate associations between baseline characteristics and EM. Prediction matrices for EM were constructed from a logistic model. Between September 2009 and December 2011, 1493 patients were enrolled in the registry and had adequate follow‐up. Of these patients, 102 (6.8%) had EM and 1391 (93.2%) survived for > 180 days. Baseline factors significantly associated with increased EM risk included age > 75 years, higher Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, lower EQ‐5D mobility score, higher ISS stage, lower platelet count, and prior hypertension. Renal insufficiency trended toward increased EM risk. These risk factors were incorporated into a prediction matrix for EM. The EM prediction matrix uses differential weighting of risk factors to calculate EM risk in patients with NDMM. Identifying patients at risk for EM may provide new opportunities to implement patient‐specific treatment strategies to improve outcomes.
Obstructive sleep apnea in Down syndrome: Benefits of surgery and noninvasive respiratory support
Authors: Dudoignon Benjamin , Amaddeo Alessandro , Frapin Annick , Thierry Briac , de Sanctis Livio , Arroyo Jorge Olmo , Khirani Sonia , Fauroux Brigitte
Published: May 2017

Children with Down syndrome are at increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of the study was to describe the management of OSA in a large cohort of children with Down syndrome. A retrospective analysis of sleep studies and consequent management was performed for all consecutive Down syndrome patients evaluated between September 2013 and April 2016. The data of 57 patients were analyzed: 51/53 had an interpretable overnight polygraphy and 4 the recording of nocturnal gas exchange. Mean age at baseline sleep study was 6.2 ± 5.9 years. Eighteen patients (32%) had prior upper airway surgery. Mean apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was 14 ± 16 events/hr with 41 of the 51 (80%) patients having OSA with an AHI >1 event/hr and 20 patients (39%) having an AHI ≥10 events/hr. Consequently, eight patients (14%) had upper airway surgery. OSA improved in all patients except two who needed noninvasive respiratory support. Nineteen (33%) patients required noninvasive respiratory support. Mean age at noninvasive respiratory support initiation was 7 ± 7 years. On 11 patients with objective adherence data available, mean compliance at 2 ± 1 years of treatment was excellent with an average use per night of 8 hr46 ± 3 hr59 and 9 patients using the noninvasive respiratory support >4 hr/night. Noninvasive respiratory support was associated with an improvement of nocturnal gas exchange. The prevalence of OSA is high in Down syndrome. Upper airway surgery is not always able to correct OSA. Noninvasive respiratory support represents then an effective treatment for OSA and good compliance may be achieved in a majority of patients.
Discordant phenotypes in monozygotic twins with 16p11.2 microdeletions including the SH2B1 gene
Authors: Li Lin , Huang Linhuan , Lin Shaobin , Luo Yanmin , Fang Qun
Published: May 2017

A 200∼240 kb SH2B1‐containing deletion region on 16p11.2 is associated with early‐onset obesity and developmental delay. Here, we describe monozygotic twin brothers with discordant clinical presentations. Intrauterine fetal growth restriction was present in both twins. Additionally, twin A exhibited coarctation of aorta, left ventricular noncompaction, atrial septal defect, pericardial effusion, left hydronephrosis, and moderate developmental delay, whereas twin B exhibited single umbilical artery. Chromosome microarray analysis was performed on both twins and their parents. An identical 244 kb microdeletion on 16p11.2 including 9 Refseq genes, including SH2B1, was identified in the twins. The novel findings in monozygotic twins may expand the phenotypic spectrum of 16p11.2 microdeletion. Further studies are needed to strengthen the correlation between genotypes and abnormal clinical features.
Presynaptic congenital myasthenic syndrome with a homozygous sequence variant in LAMA5 combines myopia, facial tics, and failure of neuromuscular transmission
Authors: Maselli Ricardo A. , Arredondo Juan , Vázquez Jessica , Chong Jessica X. ,   University of Washington Center for Mendelian Genomics, Bamshad Michael J. , Nickerson Deborah A. , Lara Marian , Ng Fiona , Lo Victoria L. , Pytel Peter , McDonald Craig M.
Published: May 2017

Defects in genes encoding the isoforms of the laminin alpha subunit have been linked to various phenotypic manifestations, including brain malformations, muscular dystrophy, ocular defects, cardiomyopathy, and skin abnormalities. We report here a severe defect of neuromuscular transmission in a consanguineous patient with a homozygous variant in the laminin alpha‐5 subunit gene (LAMA5). The variant c.8046C>T (p.Arg2659Trp) is rare and has a predicted deleterious effect. The affected individual, who also carries a rare homozygous sequence variant in LAMA1, had muscle weakness, myopia, and facial tics. Magnetic resonance imaging of brain showed mild volume loss and periventricular T2 prolongation. Repetitive nerve stimulation revealed 50% decrement of compound muscle action potential amplitudes and 250% facilitation immediately after exercise, Endplate studies identified a profound reduction of the endplate potential quantal content and endplates with normal postsynaptic folding that were denuded or partially occupied by small nerve terminals. Expression studies revealed that p.Arg2659Trp caused decreased binding of laminin alpha‐5 to SV2A and impaired laminin‐521 cell‐adhesion and cell projection support in primary neuronal cultures. In summary, this report describing severe neuromuscular transmission failure in a patient with a LAMA5 mutation expands the list of phenotypes associated with defects in genes encoding alpha‐laminins.
A gene‐based review of RGS4 as a putative risk gene for psychiatric illness
Authors: Schwarz Emanuel
Published: May 2017

Considerable efforts have been made to characterize RGS4 as a potential candidate gene for schizophrenia. Investigations span across numerous modalities and include explorations of genetic risk associations, mRNA and protein levels in the brain, and functionally relevant interactions with other candidate genes as well as links to schizophrenia relevant neural phenotypes. While these lines of investigations have yielded partially inconsistent findings, they provide a perspective on RGS4 as an important part of a larger biological system contributing to schizophrenia risk. This gene‐based review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of published data from different experimental modalities and discusses the current knowledge of RGS4's systems‐biological impact on the schizophrenia pathology.
Ultrasound evaluation of adult‐acquired flatfoot deformity: Emphasis on the involvement of spring ligament
Authors: Sirlyn Quanson
Published: May 2017

Adult‐acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD), a condition commonly caused by tibialis posterior tendon (TPT) dysfunction, has recently been recognised to encompass a spectrum of other deformities, including the disruption of the spring ligament complex. This case series reviews eight examples of chronic AAFD, outlines the sonographic assessment of the TPT and spring ligament and depicts various abnormalities of the TPT and spring ligament that are relevant to AAFD. The importance to always include the spring ligament during the assessment of AAFD will be addressed, as misdiagnosis of the involvement of the spring ligament could lead to inappropriate operative management.
Sekundärstrukturbildung als Triebkraft für die Selbstorganisation reaktiver Polypept(o)ide: Steuerung von Größe, Form und Funktion kernvernetzter Nanostrukturen
Authors: Klinker Kristina , Schäfer Olga , Huesmann David , Bauer Tobias , Capelôa Leon , Braun Lydia , Stergiou Natascha , Schinnerer Meike , Dirisala Anjaneyulu , Miyata Kanjiro , Osada Kensuke , Cabral Horacio , Kataoka Kazunori , Barz Matthias
Published: May 2017

Präzise Kontrolle über Morphologie und Funktion polymerer Nanostrukturen im Rahmen der Selbstorganisation stellt nach wie vor eine Herausforderung im Feld der Material‐ und biomedizinischen Wissenschaften dar, insbesondere wenn unabhängige Kontrolle über einzelne Partikeleigenschaften erwünscht ist. Hier wird über Sekundärstruktur‐gesteuerte Selbstorganisation von Nanostrukturen basierend auf amphiphilen Blockcopolypept(o)iden berichtet und eine Strategie zur bio‐reversiblen Einstellung der Kernpolarität und –funktion unabhängig von der Partikelpräparation vorgestellt. Der Peptiden eigene Prozess der Sekundärstrukturbildung erlaubt so die Herstellung sphärischer und wurmartiger kernvernetzter Architekturen ausgehend von ein und demselben Blockcopolymer und bietet einen simplen, aber dennoch leistungsfähigen Ansatz zur Herstellung vielseitiger peptidbasierter Nanopartikel.
Photocatalytic Nanosheet Lithography: Photolithography based on Organically Modified Photoactive 2D Nanosheets
Authors: Ganter Pirmin , Lotsch Bettina V.
Published: May 2017

Harvesting the properties of nanosheets is not only crucial from a fundamental perspective, but also for the development of novel functional devices based on 2D nanosheets. Herein, we demonstrate the processing of organically modified TBAxH1−xCa2Nb3O10 nanosheets into photonic thin films and study their colorimetric sensing properties in response to various aqueous and organic solvent vapors. Building on the enhanced solvent accessibility of TBA‐containing nanosheets and their photocatalytic activity under UV irradiation, we develop a new concept for photocatalytic lithography using TBAxH1−xCa2Nb3O10 nanosheets as a negative photoresist to obtain high‐fidelity micron‐scale patterns of robust inorganic nanosheets. Photocatalytic nanosheet lithography (PNL) therefore adds a new resist‐free, resource efficient direct patterning technique to the toolbox of photolithography.
A High‐Valent Non‐Heme μ‐Oxo Manganese(IV) Dimer Generated from a Thiolate‐Bound Manganese(II) Complex and Dioxygen
Authors: Brazzolotto Deborah , Cantú Reinhard Fabián G. , Smith‐Jones Julian , Retegan Marius , Amidani Lucia , Faponle Abayomi S. , Ray Kallol , Philouze Christian , de Visser Sam P. , Gennari Marcello , Duboc Carole
Published: May 2017

This study deals with the unprecedented reactivity of dinuclear non‐heme MnII–thiolate complexes with O2, which dependent on the protonation state of the initial MnII dimer selectively generates either a di‐μ‐oxo or μ‐oxo‐μ‐hydroxo MnIV complex. Both dimers have been characterized by different techniques including single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and mass spectrometry. Oxygenation reactions carried out with labeled 18O2 unambiguously show that the oxygen atoms present in the MnIV dimers originate from O2. Based on experimental observations and DFT calculations, evidence is provided that these MnIV species comproportionate with a MnII precursor to yield μ‐oxo and/or μ‐hydroxo MnIII dimers. Our work highlights the delicate balance of reaction conditions to control the synthesis of non‐heme high‐valent μ‐oxo and μ‐hydroxo Mn species from MnII precursors and O2.
Acoustic Emission from Organic Martensites
Authors: Panda Manas K. , Etter Martin , Dinnebier Robert E. , Naumov Panče
Published: May 2017

In salient effects, still crystals of solids that switch between phases acquire a momentum and are autonomously propelled because of rapid release of elastic energy accrued during a latent structural transition induced by heat, light, or mechanical stimulation. When mechanical reconfiguration is induced by change of temperature in thermosalient crystals, bursts of detectable acoustic waves are generated prior to self‐actuation. These observations provide compelling evidence that the thermosalient transitions in organic and organic‐containing crystals are molecular analogues of the martensitic transitions in some metals, and metal alloys such as steel and shape‐memory alloys. Within a broader context, these results reveal that, akin to metallic bonding, the intermolecular interactions in molecular solids are capable of gradual accrual and sudden release of a substantial amount of strain during anisotropic thermal expansion, followed by a rapid transformation of the crystal packing in a diffusionless, non‐displacive transition.
Acridine‐containing RuII, OsII, RhIII and IrIII Half‐Sandwich Complexes: Synthesis, Structure and Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Matsheku Asanda C. , Chen Marian Y.‐H. , Jordaan Sandra , Prince Sharon , Smith Gregory S. , Makhubela Banothile C.E.
Published: May 2017

Research aimed at enhancing the efficacy of organometallic complexes against cancer, has shown that attaching bio‐active molecules to (metallo)drugs often enhances their biological properties. New salicylaldimine and 2‐pyridylimine ligands (L2 and L3), containing a bio‐active acridine scaffold, were synthesized and complexed to Rh(III), Ir(III), Ru(II) and Os(II) metal ion centers. The resulting acridine‐containing half‐sandwich complexes have been characterized fully by elemental analysis, FT‐IR and NMR spectroscopy, HR‐ESI mass spectrometry as well as single crystal X‐ray diffraction, for the Rh(III) N^N bidentate complex [RhCp*Cl(L3)][BPh4]. The antiproliferative activity of the ligands (L2 and L3) and complexes (C1 to C9) were evaluated in vitro against human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL60) and normal skin fibroblast cells (FG0). The compounds exhibit good activities against HL60 cells and are consistently selective towards cancerous cells over non‐tumorous cells. This study demonstrates the potential of such hybrid compounds to target cancer cells specifically. The most active complex, [RhCp*Cl(L2)], exhibited binding to DNA model guanosine‐5’‐monophosphate (5’‐GMP) which suggests a mode of action involving interaction of the complex with 5’‐GMP found on DNA backbone.
Synthesis of novel magnetic nanoparticles with urea or urethane moieties: Applications as catalysts in the Strecker synthesis of α‐aminonitriles
Authors: Baghery Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Schirhagl Romana , Hasani Masoumeh , Stuart Marc C.A. , Nagl Andreas
Published: May 2017

Four novel magnetic nanoparticle catalysts with urea or urethane moieties are reported. The silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles were simply functionalized via addition of 3‐(triethoxysilyl)propylisocyanate (TESPIC), amine or amino alcohol. TESPIC with dual labile functional groups was used as a suitable precursor for the synthesis of urethane‐based catalysts. The newly synthesized catalysts were fully characterized using a variety of techniques. These functionalized magnetic nanoparticles were used as reusable catalysts in the Strecker synthesis of α‐aminonitrile derivatives under solvent‐free conditions at 50 °C.
Semitransparent, flexible electrochemical capacitors with excellent stability fabricated with polypyrrole–titanium mesh electrodes
Authors: Yuan Wei , Han Gaoyi , Xiao Yaoming , Chang Yunzhen , Zhang Ying , Song Hua
Published: May 2017

Polypyrrole deposited on titanium mesh (PPy–TiM) was fabricated via a galvanostatic method with titanium mesh as the substrate to electrochemically deposit polypyrrole (PPy) doped with p‐toluene sulfonate anions. The influence of the deposition time on the characteristics of the PPy–TiM samples was investigated. Then, semitransparent flexible electrochemical capacitors were assembled with the optimal samples of PPy–TiM as electrodes and H3PO4–poly(vinyl alcohol) as the gel electrolyte. The testing results show that PPy in the optimal PPy–TiM electrode had a specific capacitance of about 326 F/g, and the capacitance of the assembled cells still remained unchanged or up even after 20,000 cycles. Just as expected, the cells possessed semitransparent and good flexibility, and three cells connected in series could drive an LED device. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2017
Glycopolymer brushes with specific protein recognition property
Authors: Kursun Talya Tugana , Cimen Dilek , Caykara Tuncer
Published: May 2017

Here, we report the synthesis of glycopolymer brushes on the silicon substrate by interface‐mediated reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization of pentafluorophenyl acrylate as well as subsequent attachment of d‐glucosamine to determine specific and nonspecific protein interactions. The root‐mean‐square roughness of the glycopolymer brushes is only about 3.1 nm, indicating unstable distribution of the collapsed glycopolymer chains on the surface. The water contact angle of glycopolymer brush was determined as ∼53° indicating a hydrophilic behavior. The results of fluorescence microscopy studies indicated that the glycopolymer brushes have specific interaction with fluorescence‐labeled Concanavalin A and nonspecific interaction with fluorescence‐labeled bovine serum albumin. The glycopolymer brushes tested here are hoped to enlarge to our knowledge of recognition phenomena at the surface of polymer brushes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45238.
Regulation of the mechanical properties and heat resistance of the poly(l‐lactide‐co‐trimethylene carbonate) copolymer by the incorporation of a stereocomplex crystal and graphene oxide
Authors: Li Qi , Tian Xiujuan , Yu Cuixiang , Zhang Ruliang , Wei Shuxin , Zhao Lifen
Published: May 2017

Stereocomplex crystals of polylactide and graphene oxide (GO) were simultaneously used to regulate the mechanical properties and heat resistance of a poly(l‐lactide‐co‐trimethylene carbonate) [P(LLA‐co‐TMC)] copolymer. The crystallization behaviors in the nonisothermal cold‐crystallization process of P(LLA‐co‐TMC)–poly(d‐lactide) (PDLA) blends and P(LLA‐co‐TMC)–PDLA–GO composites were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, and polarized optical microscopy. Data from the crystallization kinetics and the crystallization active energy indicated that GO both promoted nucleation and limited growth during the stereocomplex crystallization process. Three kind of samples (without crystallization, with low crystallinity, and with high crystallinity) were used to investigate the mechanical properties and heat resistance. We found a decrease in the elongation at break when the stereocomplex crystal and GO contents were increased, and this was accompanied by an improvement in the tensile strength. The change in the storage modulus value determined by dynamic mechanical analysis demonstrated that both the stereocomplex crystal and GO effectively improved the heat resistance. These results indicate that this study provided a new strategy for fabricating a P(LLA‐co‐TMC) copolymer with good comprehensive properties at was entirely different from common chemical crosslinking methods. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45248.
Relationship between structure and properties in high‐performance PA6/SEBS‐g‐MA/(PPO/PS) blends: The role of PPO and PS
Authors: Wu Yijian , Zhang Hui , Shentu Baoqing , Weng Zhixue
Published: May 2017

This work aimed at studying the role of poly(phenylene oxide) (PPO) and polystyrene (PS) in toughening polyamide‐6 (PA6)/styrene‐ethylene‐butadiene‐styrene block copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride (SEBS‐g‐MA) blends. The effects of weight ratio and content of PPO/PS on the morphology and mechanical behaviors of PA6/SEBS‐g‐MA/(PPO/PS) blends were studied by scanning electron microscope and mechanical tests. Driving by the interfacial tension and the spreading coefficient, the “core–shell” particles formed by PPO/PS (core) and SEBS‐g‐MA (shell) played the key role in toughening the PA6 blends. As PS improved the distribution of the “core–shell” particles due to its low viscosity, and PPO guaranteed the entanglement density of the PPO/PS phase, the 3/1 weight ratio of PPO/PS supplied the blends optimal mechanical properties. Within certain range, the increased content of PPO/PS could supply more efficient toughening particles and bring better mechanical properties. Thus, by adjusting the weight ratio and content of PPO and PS, the PA6/SEBS‐g‐MA/(PPO/PS) blends with excellent impact strength, high tensile strength, and good heat deflection temperature were obtained. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45281.
Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder and autistic symptoms in a school‐based cohort of children in Kolkata, India
Authors: Rudra Alokananda , Belmonte Matthew K. , Soni Parmeet Kaur , Banerjee Saoni , Mukerji Shaneel , Chakrabarti Bhismadev
Published: May 2017

Despite housing ∼18% of the world's population, India does not yet have an estimate of prevalence of autism. This study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of autism in a selected population of school‐children in India. N = 11,849 children (mean age = 5.9 [SD = 1.3], 39.5% females) were selected from various school types from three boroughs in Kolkata, India. Parents/caregivers and teachers filled in the social and communication disorders checklist (SCDC). Children meeting cutoff on parent‐reported SCDC were followed up with the social communication questionnaire (SCQ). SCQ‐positive children were administered the autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS). Teacher report on SCDC was available on all 11,849 children. Parent‐report SCDC scores were obtained for 5,947 children. Mean scores on teacher SCDC were significantly lower than parent SCDC. Out of 1,247 SCDC‐positive children, 882 answered the SCQ, of whom 124 met the cutoff score of 15. Six of these children met criteria for autism, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or broader autism spectrum on the ADOS. The weighted estimate of supra‐threshold SCQ scores was 3.54% (CI: 2.88–4.3%). The weighted prevalence estimate of positive scores (for broader autism spectrum + ASD + autism) was 0.23% (0.07–0.46%). As ∼20% children in this state are known to be out of the school system, and ASD prevalence is likely to be higher in this group, this estimate is likely to represent the lower‐bound of the true prevalence. This study provides preliminary data on the prevalence of broader‐spectrum autism and supra‐threshold autistic traits in a population sample of school children in Eastern India. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1597–1605. ©2017 The Authors Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Autism Research
Evaluation of an informational and behavior change program to increase students' self‐reported energy conservation
Authors: Desrochers Marcie N. , Mosher Hilary
Published: May 2017

A systematic evaluation of a program, consisting of sustainability education, self‐management strategies, and feedback, to decrease college students' energy use was conducted. During treatment, the experimental group showed increased self‐reported energy savings relative to baseline levels and relative to the self‐reported energy use of the comparison group who were shown only an instructional video on conserving energy. Treatment gains were maintained at a 2‐week follow‐up. More participants in the experimental group rated their experience as resulting in learning something new about green issues and influencing their pro‐environmental behavior compared to the comparison group. This study suggests that further research is warranted, specifically using these strategies in real‐life situations.
Quantification of Malondialdehyde in Human Urine by HPLC‐DAD and Derivatization with 2,4‐Dinitrophenylhydrazine
Authors: Kim Boyoung , Jung Woong , Kho Younglim
Published: May 2017

This study demonstrated that human urine can be derivatized in a simple manner and the proposed method can be suitable for the routine and noninvasive evaluation of oxidative stress. A rapid and sensitive method for the determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in human urine has been developed using high‐performance liquid chromatography. The MDA concentration in pooled human urine samples was determined after its conversion with 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) to a hydrazone (MDA‐DNPH). The MDA‐DNPH was separated on C18 column and quantified by diode array detection at 310 nm. The method was validated by the use of spiked human urine. The calibration curves of analyte showed good linearity (r
2 > 0.999) in the ranges. The limit of detection was estimated as 0.16 µg/mL. In addition, accuracy was from 104.0 to 112.7% and the precision was less than 3.2%. In this study, the developed method was applied to the analysis of real human urine samples. The level of MDA in urine of adults was 1.3 ± 0.6 µg/mg creatinine.
The prediction models for postoperative overall survival and disease‐free survival in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Shigemizu Daichi , Iwase Takuji , Yoshimoto Masataka , Suzuki Yasuyo , Miya Fuyuki , Boroevich Keith A , Katagiri Toyomasa , Zembutsu Hitoshi , Tsunoda Tatsuhiko
Published: May 2017

The goal of this study is to establish a method for predicting overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in breast cancer patients after surgical operation. The gene expression profiles of cancer tissues from the patients, who underwent complete surgical resection of breast cancer and were subsequently monitored for postoperative survival, were analyzed using cDNA microarrays. We detected seven and three probes/genes associated with the postoperative OS and DFS, respectively, from our discovery cohort data. By incorporating these genes associated with the postoperative survival into MammaPrint genes, often used to predict prognosis of patients with early‐stage breast cancer, we constructed postoperative OS and DFS prediction models from the discovery cohort data using a Cox proportional hazard model. The predictive ability of the models was evaluated in another independent cohort using Kaplan–Meier (KM) curves and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The KM curves showed a statistically significant difference between the predicted high‐ and low‐risk groups in both OS (log‐rank trend test P = 0.0033) and DFS (log‐rank trend test P = 0.00030). The models also achieved high AUC scores of 0.71 in OS and of 0.60 in DFS. Furthermore, our models had improved KM curves when compared to the models using MammaPrint genes (OS: P = 0.0058, DFS: P = 0.00054). Similar results were observed when our model was tested in publicly available datasets. These observations indicate that there is still room for improvement in the current methods of predicting postoperative OS and DFS in breast cancer.
Making markets with the dead: Residential burial among theYoruba
Authors: Ojo Sanya
Published: May 2017

The study examines how traditional meanings attributed to housing and the rituals relating to death and burials on private properties are being challenged due to modernisation, familial politics, and contending sets of interests (i.e., valuing property for its economic capital vs. social/cultural capital). The methodology approach is based on in‐depth interviews with 12 respondents from a diverse range of socio‐economic backgrounds. Findings reveal how negotiations and renegotiations of interests affect the physical state and marketability of houses in the Yoruba communities. The findings also sign‐post a fascinating entry point for exploring the way Yoruba are negotiating and navigating the relationship between modernity and tradition. An important implication for marketing and consumption praxes concerns the dynamism in the narratives of ritual behaviour, especially in the non‐Western tradition. The paper contributes to the navigation of relationships between the living and the dead within a Nigerian subculture from a marketing perspective.
Influence of radial versus femoral access site on coronary angiography and intervention outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Brener Michael I. , Bush Aaron , Miller Julie M. , Hasan Rani K.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCT) to compare procedural outcomes between radial access (RA) and femoral access (FA).

Background

Recent RCTs suggest RA for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention reduces bleeding complications, but controversy exists regarding other benefits and risks relative to FA.

Methods

Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, LILACS, and major conference abstracts identified relevant studies published from 1985‐2016. We qualitatively evaluated study methodology and risk of bias. Quantitative data were abstracted relevant to the primary endpoints of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major bleeding (MB), and secondary outcomes including vascular complications and procedural failure.

Results

We identified 2,098 titles, from which 48 studies with 29,446 patients met inclusion criteria for our analysis. We found there was a significant reduction of MACE with RA versus FA (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77–0.95, I2 = 0%), driven by a reduction in death, but not MI or stroke. MB occurred less frequently with RA (RR 0.54, 95% CI 0.44–0.67, I2 = 4%). Vascular complications were also reduced with RA (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.25–0.59, I2 = 75%), while procedural failure was more common (RR 2.15, 95% CI 1.65–2.82, I2 = 53%), although there was significant statistical heterogeneity for both of these outcomes. Most studies demonstrated low risk of selection and attrition biases, but high risk of detection bias.

Conclusions

Radial access reduces the risk of death, major bleeding, and vascular complications as compared to femoral access but increases the risk of procedural failure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inosine Can Increase DNA′s Susceptibility to Photo‐oxidation by a RuII Complex due to Structural Change in the Minor Groove
Authors: Keane Páraic M. , Hall James P. , Poynton Fergus E. , Poulsen Bjørn C. , Gurung Sarah P. , Clark Ian P. , Sazanovich Igor V. , Towrie Michael , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur , Quinn Susan J. , Cardin Christine J. , Kelly John M.
Published: May 2017

Key to the development of DNA‐targeting phototherapeutic drugs is determining the interplay between the photoactivity of the drug and its binding preference for a target sequence. For the photo‐oxidising lambda‐[Ru(TAP)2(dppz)]2+ (Λ‐1) (dppz=dipyridophenazine) complex bound to either d{T1C2G3G4C5G6C7C8G9A10}2 (G9) or d{TCGGCGCCIA}2 (I9), the X‐ray crystal structures show the dppz intercalated at the terminal T1C2;G9A10 step or T1C2;I9A10 step. Thus substitution of the G9 nucleobase by inosine does not affect intercalation in the solid state although with I9 the dppz is more deeply inserted. In solution it is found that the extent of guanine photo‐oxidation, and the rate of back electron‐transfer, as determined by pico‐ and nanosecond time‐resolved infrared and transient visible absorption spectroscopy, is enhanced in I9, despite it containing the less oxidisable inosine. This is attributed to the nature of the binding in the minor groove due to the absence of an NH2 group. Similar behaviour and the same binding site in the crystal are found for d{TTGGCGCCAA}2 (A9). In solution, we propose that intercalation occurs at the C2G3;C8I9 or T2G3;C8A9 steps, respectively, with G3 the likely target for photo‐oxidation. This demonstrates how changes in the minor groove (in this case removal of an NH2 group) can facilitate binding of RuIIdppz complexes and hence influence any sensitised reactions occurring at these sites. No similar enhancement of photooxidation on binding to I9 is found for the delta enantiomer.
Helically Chiral Peptides That Contain Ferrocene‐1,1′‐diamine Scaffolds as a Turn Inducer
Authors: Kovačević Monika , Kodrin Ivan , Roca Sunčica , Molčanov Krešimir , Shen Yuning , Adhikari Bimalendu , Kraatz Heinz‐Bernhard , Barišić Lidija
Published: May 2017

A series of peptides that contain homo‐ and heterochiral Ala−Pro sequences attached to the turn‐inducing ferrocene‐1,1′‐diamine scaffold were synthesized. The effects of the backbone chirality and the N‐terminal group (Boc/Ac) on the conformational properties of the novel peptidomimetics were thoroughly explored by IR, NMR, and CD spectroscopy and the experimental observations were corroborated by DFT studies in solution. The most stable conformers of the homochiral peptides adopted the interstrand hydrogen‐bond patterns, realized through ten‐ and thirteen‐membered rings. The common feature of the most stable conformers of the heterochiral peptides was the adoption of the turn‐like structures that feature the simultaneous intra‐ (seven‐membered) and interstrand (sixteen‐membered) hydrogen‐bonded rings. An exchange of two N‐terminal groups had a somewhat larger influence on the distribution of the hydrogen‐bond patterns in homochiral than in heterochiral derivatives. The homochiral peptides that contain pyridine moieties as metal coordination sites formed 1:1 complexes with divalent metal ions, which included Zn2+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and Fe2+.
Starch‐based composites using mature fine tailings as fillers
Authors: Moran Daniel A. , Soares João B. P.
Published: May 2017

Mature fine tailings (MFT) are one of the major environmental problems associated with the oil sands industry in Canada. To help mitigate the negative impact tailings have on the environment, we prepared MFT/starch composites and studied their morphology, water resistance, and mechanical properties as a function of filler percentage. The motivation behind this approach is to turn waste tailings into a source of potentially useful materials. We compared the MFT/starch composites to similar composites made with montmorillonite (MMT), cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), and Dean Stark solids (DS). The water resistance of MFT/starch and DS/starch composites improved 6 % at the highest filler content. MFT/starch and DS/starch composites had similar mechanical properties, but performed better than plasticized starch, with an increasing tensile modulus with increasing filler content. Despite the higher modulus increase in intercalated MMT/starch and CNC/starch composites (up to 5 % filler), the MFT/starch composites with filler contents higher than 10 % achieved the same tensile modulus values; since our objective was to transform as much MFT as possible into useable materials, this can be seen as a positive feature of these composites. The dynamic mechanical analysis of the composites showed they were heterogeneous and identified a plasticizer‐rich phase and a starch‐rich phase.
Sonochemical Synthesis of Two Dimensional C3N4 Nanosheets Supported Palladium Composites and Their Electrocatalytic Activity for Oxygen Reduction and Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Zuo Lingxia , Jiang Liping , Zhu Jun‐Jie
Published: May 2017

The preparation of highly active electrocatalysts with good durability and low cost for fuel cells is highly desirable but still remains a significant challenge. Here we synthesized two dimensional (2D) C3N4 nanosheets supported palladium composites (C3N4/Pd) via a simple and convenient sonochemical approach. We have systematically studied the electrocatalytic performance of as‐prepared catalysts. We found that the prepared C3N4/Pd composites possessed excellent catalytic activity and stability for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. Encouragingly, the C3N4/Pd catalysts exhibit the excellent electrocatalytic activity for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in alkaline media, even better than that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst. The excellent electrocatalytic performance of the 2D C3N4 nanosheets supported palladium composites catalysts results from their synergy effect between the ultrathin substrate material with large surface area and excellent dispersion of palladium nanoparticles. This study demonstrates that sonochemical method opens up a new avenue for the preparation of electrocatalysts for fuel cells. We expect these materials are likely to find uses in a broad range of applications, for example, fuel cells, solar cells, batteries and other electrochemical analysis.
Gold(I) Hydrides as Proton Acceptors in Dihydrogen Bond Formation
Authors: Cukrowski Ignacy , de Lange Jurgens H. , Groenewald Ferdinand , Raubenheimer Helgard G.
Published: May 2017

Wavefunction and DFT calculations indicate thatanionicdihydride complexes of AuIform strong to moderate directed Au−H⋅⋅⋅H bonds with one or two HF, H2O and NH3prototype proton donor molecules. The largely electrostatic interaction is influenced by relativistic effects which, however, do not increase the binding energy. Very weak Au⋅⋅⋅H associations—exhibiting a corresponding bond path—occur betweenneutralAuH and HF units, although ultimately F becomes the preferred donor atom in the most stable structure. Increasing the hydridicity of AuH by attachment of an electron donating NHC ligand effects Au‐H⋅⋅⋅H bonding of moderate strength only with HF, whereas competing Au⋅⋅⋅H interactions dominate for H2O and NH3. Rare η2coordinated and HX (X=F or OH) associated H2complexes are produced during interaction with a single ion of stronger acidity, H2F+or H3O+. Theoretically, reaction of excess [AuH2]−as proton acceptor with H3O+or NH4+in 3:1 or 4:1 ionic ratios, respectively, affords H⋅⋅⋅H bonded analogues of Eigen‐type adducts. Outstanding analytical relationships between selected bonding parameters support the integrity of the results.
Capturing Conformation‐Dependent Photoreactivity of Crystalline 3‐Azido‐1,3‐diphenylisobutyrophenone
Authors: Karthik Sambath , Thenna‐Hewa Kosala R. S. , Shields Dylan J. , Liu Jinhao , Krause Jeanette A. , Gudmundsdottir Anna D.
Published: May 2017

Solid‐state photolysis of 3‐azido‐1,3‐diphenyl‐isobutyrophenone 1 results in selective formation of isobutyrophenone 2 and benzonitrile 3. X‐ray structure analysis of azide 1 demonstrates that the conformer (1Cr) adopted for packing in the crystal lattice has the carbonyl moiety perpendicular to the α‐phenyl group (Ph‐C=O torsional angle of 85°). Laser flash photolysis of azide 1 nanocrystals allows direct detection of the lowest excited triplet ketone (TK) of 1Cr (λmax≈475 nm). Thus, in crystals, 1 is proposed to react via the TK state to cleave the Cβ−Cγ bond. Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations verify that the energy of the TK of 1Cr is 79 kcal mol−1 above the ground state (S0), and thus TK has sufficient energy for cleavage of the Cβ−Cγ bond to form products 2 and 3, further supporting this solid‐state reaction mechanism.
A new interleaved bidirectional dc/dc converter with zero voltage switching and high voltage gain: analyses, design and simulation
Authors: Babaei Ebrahim , Saadatizadeh Zahra
Published: May 2017

In this paper, a new interleaved non‐isolated bidirectional dc–dc converter with capability of zero voltage switching and high voltage gain is proposed. In the proposed converter by using two coupled inductors and one capacitor, the voltage gain is extended. Moreover, by using only an auxiliary circuit that includes an inductor and two capacitors, the zero voltage switching (ZVS) of two used switches in the first phase of converter can be achieved. The ZVS operation of two used switches in the second phase is always obtained without using any extra auxiliary circuit. This converter similar to other interleaved converters has low input current ripple and low current stress on switches. In this paper, the proposed converter is analyzed in all operating modes, and also the voltage gain, required conditions for ZVS operation of switches, voltage and current stresses of all switches, and the value of input current ripple in both boost and buck operations are obtained. Finally, the accuracy performance of the proposed converter is verified through simulation results in EMTDC/PSCAD software. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sex‐biased oviposition by a nursery pollinator on a gynodioecious host plant: Implications for breeding system evolution and evolution of mutualism
Authors: Doubleday Laura A. D. , Adler Lynn S.
Published: May 2017

Dioecy, a breeding system where individual plants are exclusively male or female, has evolved repeatedly. Extensive theory describes when dioecy should arise from hermaphroditism, frequently through gynodioecy, where females and hermaphrodites coexist, and when gynodioecy should be stable. Both pollinators and herbivores often prefer the pollen‐bearing sex, with sex‐specific fitness effects that can affect breeding system evolution. Nursery pollination, where adult insects pollinate flowers but their larvae feed on plant reproductive tissues, is a model for understanding mutualism evolution but could also yield insights into plant breeding system evolution. We studied a recently established nursery pollination interaction between native Hadena ectypa moths and introduced gynodioecious Silene vulgaris plants in North America to assess whether oviposition was biased toward females or hermaphrodites, which traits were associated with oviposition, and the effect of oviposition on host plant fitness. Oviposition was hermaphrodite‐biased and associated with deeper flowers and more stems. Sexual dimorphism in flower depth, a trait also associated with oviposition on the native host plant (Silene stellata), explained the hermaphrodite bias. Egg‐receiving plants experienced more fruit predation than plants that received no eggs, but relatively few fruits were lost, and egg receipt did not significantly alter total fruit production at the plant level. Oviposition did not enhance pollination; egg‐receiving flowers usually failed to expand and produce seeds. Together, our results suggest that H. ectypa oviposition does not exert a large fitness cost on host plants, sex‐biased interactions can emerge from preferences developed on a hermaphroditic host species, and new nursery pollination interactions can arise as negative or neutral rather than as mutualistic for the plant.
2‐ and 3‐Vinylindoles as 4π Components in Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Rossi Elisabetta , Abbiati Giorgio , Pirovano Valentina
Published: May 2017

The review summarizes the most recent achievements in the chemistry of 2‐vinylindoles and 3‐vinylindoles. In particular, we focus on the behavior of these compounds as dienes in cycloaddition reactions. The majority of the literature in this field deals with [4+2] cycloaddition, and only one report of [4+1] cycloaddition has appeared in the literature until now. Thus, the main section reviews [4+2] cycloaddition with activated cyclic and acyclic dienophiles under Lewis‐acid catalysis or organocatalysis conditions. In addition, cycloadditions performed with simple π‐systems as dienophiles, occurring through activation by transition‐metal catalysts, are reviewed. This section mainly involves the use of allenes as dienophiles under gold catalysis conditions. In both cases, the authors report excellent levels of diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity. Two separate subsections deal with the synthesis of natural compounds and with the use of methyleneindolinones as dienophiles.
Present but invisible: Physical obscurity fosters social disconnection
Authors: Knowles Megan L. , Dean Kristy K.
Published: May 2017

Research suggests that we feel invisible and disconnected when others avoid our gaze. In three studies, we examine whether similar feelings may arise when others are unable to meet our gaze—when they are unaware of our presence altogether. We posit that feelings of loneliness and disconnection can arise when others are unable to sense one's physical presence. To test whether invisibility engenders loneliness, we primed participants with the invisibility construct (Studies 1 and 2) and manipulated actual visibility (Study 3) prior to assessing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Results revealed that being present, but unseen, is sufficient to induce loneliness. Findings are related to the ostracism and intersectional invisibility literatures, and the social costs of physical obscurity are discussed.
Implicit self and the right hemisphere: Increasing implicit self‐esteem and implicit positive affect by left hand contractions
Authors: Quirin Markus , Fröhlich Stephanie , Kuhl Julius
Published: May 2017

Unilateral hand contraction typically activates the contralateral hemisphere and has led to changes in psychological states and performances in previous research. Based on a right hemisphere model of the implicit self, we hypothesized and found that left hand contraction increases momentary levels of implicit self‐esteem (Studies 1 and 2) and implicit positive affect (Study 3). The findings are discussed with respect to potential differences between the hemispheres in implicit and explicit affective processing and how they can be integrated in the existing literature on hemisphere asymmetries.
From segregation to intergroup contact and back: Using experiments and simulation to understand the bidirectional link
Authors: Schlueter Elmar , Ullrich Johannes , Glenz Andreas , Schmidt Peter
Published: May 2017

Research on intergroup contact has mostly viewed desegregation as a necessary condition for contact to unfold its power to reduce prejudice. Through residential and school choices, however, prejudice also contributes to segregation. To shed light on this bidirectional link, we conducted two survey‐based experiments with stratified quota samples of German adults. In Study 1, respondents with less contact and more prejudice indicated a lower likelihood of renting an apartment in a neighborhood with a larger proportion of minority members, although housing quality and crime rate were held constant. In Study 2, similar results were obtained for the likelihood of enrolling their child at a school with a larger proportion of minority students. Building on these results in a computer simulation, we find that because contact only reduces prejudice, but does not produce pro‐minority preferences, spontaneous desegregation is unlikely to occur even under the most favorable structural and economic conditions.
When identity hurts: How positive intragroup experiences can yield negative mental health implications for ethnic and sexual minorities
Authors: Begeny Christopher T. , Huo Yuen J.
Published: May 2017

Two studies (longitudinal, N = 510; cross‐sectional; N = 249) explain how feeling valued in one's ethnic/sexual minority group has benefits for mental health but also certain costs through the way it shapes minorities' identity. Drawing from the intragroup status and health (ISAH) model, we posit that when individuals feel valued in their minority group it bolsters group identification; with greater identity‐centrality, individuals tend to view daily social interactions through the “lens” of their minority group and ultimately perceive more discrimination. Discrimination, in turn, negatively shapes health. Thus, feeling valued in one's minority group has benefits for health but also indirect costs, perhaps counterintuitively by strengthening minority group identity. Results of both studies supported these predictions. Study 2 also supported an adapted ISAH model for use in the context of concealable stigmatized identities (sexual minorities). Overall, the ISAH model explains why feeling valued and having strong social identities are not always beneficial, yielding certain costs for stigmatized individuals' health.