bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Superamphiphilic Silicon Wafer Surfaces and Applications for Uniform Polymer Film Fabrication
Authors: Zhu Zhongpeng , Tian Ye , Chen Yupeng , Gu Zhen , Wang Shutao , Jiang Lei
Published: March 2017

Silicon wafers have been widely used in the semiconductor industry for many decades. Over the past decades, with the development of organic optoelectronic materials, silicon‐based organic–inorganic hybrid devices have received more and more interest in fundamental and applied research. To obtain uniform organic films for hybrid devices, superamphiphilic surfaces, on which both water and oil can spread completely, show great advantages. Herein, we prepared superamphiphilic silicon wafer surfaces with contact angles (CAs) near 0° for both water and typical organic liquids. Interestingly, lateral force mode (LFM) atomic force microscopy (AFM) images indicate that the superamphiphilicity is induced by alternating hydrophilic and hydrophobic nanodomains. By making use of these superamphiphilic silicon wafer surfaces, uniform polypyrrole (PPy) films were generated in both water and cyclopentanone, providing a versatile and effective way for the integration of organic optoelectronic materials with inorganic microelectronic devices.
Self‐Assembly of Magnesium Hydride Clusters Driven by Chameleon‐Type Ligands
Authors: Langer Jens , Maitland Brant , Grams Samuel , Ciucka Alexandra , Pahl Jürgen , Elsen Holger , Harder Sjoerd
Published: March 2017

While magnesium hydride complexes are generally stabilized by hard, bulky N‐donor ligands, softer ligands with a broad variety of coordination modes are shown to efficiently adapt themselves to the large variety of Mg2+ centers in a growing magnesium hydride cluster. A P,N‐chelating ligand is introduced that displays coordination modes between that of enamide, aza‐allyl, and phosphinomethanide. Slight changes in the ligand bite angle have dramatic consequences for the structure type. The hitherto largest neutral magnesium hydride clusters are isolated either in a nonanuclear sheet‐structure (brucite‐type) or a dodecanuclear ring structure.
Divergent Synthesis of Heteroatom‐Centered 4,8,12‐Triazatriangulenes
Authors: Nakatsuka Soichiro , Gotoh Hajime , Kinoshita Keisuke , Yasuda Nobuhiro , Hatakeyama Takuji
Published: March 2017

The increasing attention devoted to triangulenes and their heteroatom derivatives inspired us to explore a divergent synthesis of heteroatom‐centered 4,8,12‐triazatriangulenes, which involved the preparation of a nitrogen‐containing macrocyclic precursor and subsequent central heteroatom introduction by electrophilic C−Li and C−H substitution. The boron‐centered triangulene has a planar structure unlike the bowl‐shaped phosphorus‐ and silicon‐centered triangulenes. The described synthetic procedure can be used to fabricate a broad range of attractive functional materials, for example, for organic light‐emitting diodes, based on heteroatom‐centered triangulenes.
Near‐IR Absorbing J‐Aggregate of an Amphiphilic BF2‐Azadipyrromethene Dye by Kinetic Cooperative Self‐Assembly
Authors: Chen Zhijian , Liu Yong , Wagner Wolfgang , Stepanenko Vladimir , Ren Xiangkui , Ogi Soichiro , Würthner Frank
Published: March 2017

A new amphiphilic BF2‐azadipyrromethene (aza‐BODIPY) dye 1 has been synthesized using a CuI‐catalyzed “click” reaction. For this dye, two self‐assembly pathways that lead to different type of J‐aggregates with distinct near‐infrared optical properties have been discovered. The metastable off‐pathway product displays a broad, structureless absorption band while the thermodynamically stable on‐pathway aggregate exhibits the characteristic spectral features of a J‐aggregate, that is, red‐shifted intense absorption band with significantly narrowed linewidth. The morphology and structure of the aggregates were studied by atomic force microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The aggregation processes of 1 were investigated by temperature‐ and concentration‐dependent UV/Vis spectroscopy and evaluated by models for cooperative self‐assembly.
The XXL survey: First results and future
Authors: Pierre M. , Adami C. , Birkinshaw M. , Chiappetti L. , Ettori S. , Evrard A. , Faccioli L. , Gastaldello F. , Giles P. , Horellou C. , Iovino A. , Koulouridis E. , Lidman C. , Le Brun A. , Maughan B. , Maurogordato S. , McCarthy I. , Miyazaki S. , Pacaud F. , Paltani S. , Plionis M. , Reiprich T. , Sadibekova T. , Smolcic V. , Snowden S. , Surdej J. , Tsirou M. , Vignali C. , Willis J. , Alis S. , Altieri B. , Baran N. , Benoist C. , Bongiorno A. , Bremer M. , Butler A. , Cappi A. , Caretta C. , Ciliegi P. , Clerc N. , Corasaniti P. S. , Coupon J. , Delhaize J. , Delvecchio I. , Democles J. , Desai Sh. , Devriendt J. , Dubois Y. , Eckert D. , Elyiv A. , Farahi A. , Ferraril C. , Fotopoulou S. , Forman W. , Georgantopoulos I. , Guglielmo V. , Huynh M. , Jerlin N. , Jones Ch. , Lavoie S. , Le Fevre J.‐P. , Lieu M. , Kilbinger M. , MaruIli F. , Mantz A. , McGee S. , Melin J.‐B. , Melnyk O. , Moscardini L. , Novak M. , Piconcelli E. , Poggianti B. , Pomarede D. , Pompei E. , Ponman T. , Ramos Ceja M. E. , Rana P. , Rapetti D. , Raychaudhury S. , Ricci M. , Rottgering H. , Sahlen M. , Sauvageot J.‐L. , Schimd C. , Sereno M. , Smith G.P. , Umetsu K. , Valageas P. , Valotti A. , Valtchanov I. , Veropalumbo A. , Ascaso B. , Barnes D. , De Petris M. , Durret F. , Donahue M. , Ithana M. , Jarvis M. , Johnston‐Hollitt M. , Kalfountzou E. , Kay S. , La Franca F. , Okabe N. , Muzzin A. , Rettura A. , Ricci F. , Ridl J. , Risaliti G. , Takizawa M. , Thomas P. , Truong N.
Published: March 2017

The XXL survey currently covers two 25 deg2 patches with XMM observations of ∼10 ks. We summarize the scientific results associated with the first release of the XXL dataset, which occurred in mid‐2016. We review several arguments for increasing the survey depth to 40 ks during the next decade of XMM operations. X‐ray (z < 2) cluster, (z < 4) active galactic nuclei (AGN), and cosmic background survey science will then benefit from an extraordinary data reservoir. This, combined with deep multi‐λ observations, will lead to solid standalone cosmological constraints and provide a wealth of information on the formation and evolution of AGN, clusters, and the X‐ray background. In particular, it will offer a unique opportunity to pinpoint the z > 1 cluster density. It will eventually constitute a reference study and an ideal calibration field for the upcoming eROSITA and Euclid missions.
Spectroscopic investigation and in vitro cytotoxic activity toward HepG2 cells of a copper compound complexed with human serum albumin
Authors: Li Mei , Huang ShuJuan , Cai Qingyou , Xie YongRong
Published: March 2017

The human serum albumin (HSA) interaction of a mixed‐ligand copper compound (1) with an imidazole and taurine Schiff base derived from salicylaldehyde and taurine was investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy, UV–vis spectroscopy, time‐resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy and a molecular docking technique. The results of fluorescence and time‐resolved fluorescence spectroscopy indicated that 1 can effectively quench the HSA fluorescence by a static mechanism. Binding constants (K) and the number of binding sites (n ≈ 1) were calculated using modified Stern–Volmer equations. The thermodynamic parameters were calculated. UV–vis, CD and FT‐IR spectroscopy measurements confirm the alterations in the HSA secondary structure induced by 1. The site marker competitive experiment confirms that 1 is located in subdomain IB of HSA. The combination of molecular docking results and fluorescence experimental results reveal that hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonds are the predominant intermolecular forces stabilizing the 1–HSA complex. The 1–HSA complex increases approximately three times its cytotoxicity in cancer cells but has no effect on normal cells in vitro. Compared with unbound 1, the 1–HSA complex promotes HepG2 cells apoptosis and also has a stronger capacity for cell cycle arrest at the S phase of HepG2 cells.
Recommendations on the Implementation of Genetic Algorithms for the Directed Evolution of Enzymes for Industrial Purposes
Authors: Barley Mark H. , Turner Nicolas J. , Goodacre Royston
Published: March 2017

In directed evolution (DE) the assessment of candidate enzymes and their modification is essential. In this study we have investigated genetic algorithms (GAs) in this context and conducted a systematic study of the behavior of GAs on 20 fitness landscapes (FLs) of varying complexity. This has allowed the tuning of the GAs to be explored. On the basis of this study, recommendations for the best GA settings to use for a GA‐directed high‐throughput experimental program (in which populations and the number of generations is necessarily low) are reported. The FLs were based upon simple linear models and were characterized by the behavior of the GA on the landscape as demonstrated by stall plots and the footprints and adhesion of candidate solutions, which highlighted local optima (LOs). In order to maximize progress of the GA and to reduce the chances of becoming stuck in a LO it was best to use: 1) a large number of generations, 2) high populations, 3) removal of duplicate sequences (clones), 4) double mutation, and 5) high selection pressure (the two best individuals go to the next generation), and 6) to consider using a designed sequence as the starting point of the GA run. We believe that these recommendations might be appropriate starting points for studies employing GAs within DE experiments.
A unique acromegalic osteoarthropathy: manubriosternal joint arthritis
Authors: Fujisawa Satoshi , Otsuka Fumio
Published: March 2017

Key Clinical Message

Osteoarthritis of the manubriosternal joint can be found in patients with inflammatory arthritis. Acromegalic arthropathy is often found in the shoulders, wrists, knees, hips, and spine; however, attention should also be given to sternalgia as a complication of acromegalic involvement of the manubriosternal joint.
The use of laparoscopic rectopexy to manage rectal prolapse with Pseudo‐Meigs’ syndrome in a 64‐year‐old female: a case report
Authors: Kondo Takayuki , Tsuruta Masashi , Hasegawa Hirotoshi , Okabayashi Koji , Shigeta Kohei , Hayashida Tetsu , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: March 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report a rare case of rectal prolapse with Pseudo‐Meigs’ syndrome in which laparoscopic bilateral oophorectomy and rectopexy were performed simultaneously and resulted in improved quality of life due to the loss of ascites and the repair of rectal prolapse. Laparoscopic surgery is feasible for rectal prolapse with Pseudo‐Meigs’ syndrome.
Morphological basis for a tonotopic design of an insect ear
Authors: Hummel Jennifer , Kössl Manfred , Nowotny Manuela
Published: March 2017

The tonotopically organized hearing organs of bushcrickets provide the opportunity for a detailed correlation of morphological and structural properties within hearing organs that are needed to establish tonotopic gradients. In the present study of a tonotopic insect hearing organ, we combine mechanical measurements of sound‐induced hearing organ motion and detailed anatomical investigations to explore the anatomical basis of tonotopy. We compare mechanical data of frequency responses along the auditory organ to several anatomical parameters. Low frequency responses are related to larger organ and cap cell size in the proximal part of the hearing organ while in the distal part of the organ, small organ and cap cell size is related to high‐frequency representation. However, the correlation between organ and cap cell size with continuous frequency representation along the organ is not very tight. Instead, the height of the organ and the corresponding length of the sensory dendrites are best correlated to tonotopic frequency representation. The sensory dendrite contains a ciliary root with a pronounced cross‐banding of electron‐dense material that should be important for the stiffness of the dendrite. The geometry of surrounding structures like the hemolymph channel and the acoustic trachea as well as the extension of the tectorial membrane are not correlated to the tonotopy. We provide evidence that tonotopy in the bushcricket hearing organ may depend on the size of ciliary structures. In particular, the ciliary root of the sensory cells is a likely cellular basis of tonotopy.
Poly(4‐Vinylpyridine)‐Based Interfacial Passivation to Enhance Voltage and Moisture Stability of Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Chaudhary Bhumika , Kulkarni Ashish , Jena Ajay Kumar , Ikegami Masashi , Udagawa Yosuke , Kunugita Hideyuki , Ema Kazuhiro , Miyasaka Tsutomu
Published: March 2017

It is well known that the surface trap states and electronic disorders in the solution‐processed CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite film affect the solar cell performance significantly and moisture sensitivity of photoactive perovskite material limits its practical applications. Herein, we show the surface modification of a perovskite film with a solution‐processable hydrophobic polymer (poly(4‐vinylpyridine), PVP), which passivates the undercoordinated lead (Pb) atoms (on the surface of perovskite) by its pyridine Lewis base side chains and thereby eliminates surface‐trap states and non‐radiative recombination. Moreover, it acts as an electron barrier between the perovskite and hole‐transport layer (HTL) to reduce interfacial charge recombination, which led to improvement in open‐circuit voltage (Voc) by 120 to 160 mV whereas the standard cell fabricated in same conditions showed Voc as low as 0.9 V owing to dominating interfacial recombination processes. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) increased by 3 to 5 % in the polymer‐modified devices (PCE=15 %) with Voc more than 1.05 V and hysteresis‐less J–V curves. Advantageously, hydrophobicity of the polymer chain was found to protect the perovskite surface from moisture and improved stability of the non‐encapsulated cells, which retained their device performance up to 30 days of exposure to open atmosphere (50 % humidity).
Comparison of cancer stage distribution in the immigrant and host populations of Norway, 1990–2014
Authors: Thøgersen Håvard , Møller Bjørn , Robsahm Trude Eid , Aaserud Stein , Babigumira Ronnie , Larsen Inger Kristin
Published: March 2017

Cancer stage at diagnosis is the most important prognostic factor for survival. We conducted a nationwide, population‐based cohort study to investigate cancer stage distribution in immigrants compared to the host population of Norway. All patients recorded in the Cancer Registry of Norway in 1990–2014 were included (17,709 immigrants and 431,936 Norwegians). Individual level sociodemographic data was obtained from Statistics Norway. Ordered logistic regression was used to estimate if immigrants were diagnosed with cancer at a more advanced stage than Norwegians. Seven cancer sites were analyzed (breast, cervix, colorectal, liver, lung and trachea, prostate and stomach). With exception of breast cancer, we did not observe a clear pattern of more advanced cancer stage distribution in immigrants compared to Norwegians. Odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals for being diagnosed with a more advanced stage of breast cancer for non‐Western immigrant groups compared to Norwegians were: Eastern Europe: 1.41 (1.20–1.65), Middle East: 1.58 (1.19–2.10), sub‐Saharan Africa: 1.44 (0.99–2.08), South Asia: 1.40 (1.07–1.83) and East Asia: 0.90 (0.72–1.13). Sub‐analyses showed that late detection of breast cancer in young non‐Western immigrants might be of particular concern. Young (<50 years) non‐Western immigrants had an odds ratio of 1.40 (1.21–1.62) for more advanced stage breast cancer compared to young Norwegians.
Removal of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) factor suPAR using CytoSorb
Authors: Schenk Heiko , Müller‐Deile Janina , Schmitt Roland , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Haller Hermann , Schiffer Mario
Published: March 2017

Treatment of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and its recurrence after kidney transplantation associated with rapid deterioration of kidney function remains to be challenging despite advances in immunosuppressive therapy. The presence of circulating factors has been postulated to be a pivotal player in the pathogenesis of FSGS, although suPAR and CLCF‐1 have been identified as the most promising causative factors. The potential therapeutic effect of suPAR elimination in an FSGS patient using CytoSorb, a hemoadsorption device that gained attention in the cytokine elimination in septic patients, was studied. Efficiency of total plasma exchange to remove suPAR was determined. CytoSorb hemoadsorption caused a 27.33% reduction of the suPAR level in a single treatment, whereas total plasma exchange showed a suPAR level reduction of 25.12% (n = 3; 95% confidence interval, 0.2777‐0.8090; P < 0.01), which may indicate therapeutic potential in the treatment of primary FSGS and its recurrence in a kidney transplant.
MicroRNAs‐Based Imaging Techniques in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Keshavarzi Maryam , Sorayayi Saba , Jafar Rezaei Mohammad , Mohammadi Mohsen , Ghaderi Amir , Rostamzadeh Ayoob , Masoudifar Aria , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: March 2017

Cancer is one of the most serious global health concerns in different populations. Several studies indicated that there are many potentially promising cellular and molecular targets for cancer therapy within cancer cells and their microenvironment. Among different cellular and molecular targets involved in cancer pathogenesis, microRNAs (miRNAs) are well known as key targets for cancer therapy. miRNAs are one of main classes of non‐coding RNAs. These molecules play important roles in different critical processes of cancer pathogenesis. Hence, this makes miRNAs as a suitable tool for cancer diagnosis and therapy. There are different approaches for monitoring miRNAs in cancer patients. Some conventional approaches including next‐generation sequencing, real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), northern blotting, and microarrays could be used for assessment of miRNAs expression. Some studies revealed that the utilization of these approaches associated with various limitations. Recently, it has been revealed that molecular imaging techniques are powerful tools for monitoring of different cellular and molecular targets involved in various diseases such as cancer. These techniques help investigators to investigate and monitor miRNAs functions through assessing different targets by fluorescent proteins, bioluminescent enzymes, molecular beacons, as well as various nanoparticles. Therefore, utilization of molecular imaging techniques could assist investigators to better monitor and more effectively treat patients during different phases of malignancy. Here, we give a review on the current state of miRNAs‐based imaging techniques in cancer diagnosis and therapy. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4121–4128, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The investigation of association between IL‐1Ra and ACE I/D polymorphisms in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Cevik Betul , Tekcan Akin , Inanir Ahmet , Kurt Semiha Gulsum , Yigit Serbulent
Published: March 2017

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common neurologic impairment caused by injury on the median nerve in the wrist, characterized by pain and loss of sensory. CTS usually occurs through three factors, such as a mechanical pressure on median nerve, immunologic changes, and oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) I/D polymorphisms on the susceptibility of patients to the CTS.

Methods

One hundred fifty‐eight patients with CTS and 151 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Each patient was analyzed according to diseases symptoms, such as gender, a positive Tinel's sign, a positive Phalen maneuver, disease sides, EMG findings, and clinical stage. We applied the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the polymorphisms of IL‐1Ra and ACE I/D.

Results

The statistically significant relation was not found between IL‐1Ra, ACE I/D polymorphisms and CTS (respectively, P>.05; P>.05, OR: 1.51, CI: 0.82‐1.61). Additionally, in the result of the statistical analysis compared with gene polymorphisms and clinical characteristics, we did not find any correlation (P>.05).

Conclusions

Our findings showed that there are no associations of IL‐1Ra and ACE I/D polymorphisms with susceptibility of a person for the development of CTS. So, it means that these polymorphisms do not create a risk for the development of CTS. Further studies with larger populations will be required to confirm these findings in different study populations.
Molecular analysis of norovirus in specimens from children enrolled in a 1982‐1986 study in Belém, Brazil: A community‐based longitudinal study
Authors: Siqueira Jones Anderson Monteiro , Sousa Júnior Edivaldo Costa , Linhares Alexandre da Costa , Gabbay Yvone Benchimol
Published: March 2017

Fecal specimens were collected during a longitudinal, community‐based study in the city of Belém, North Brazil, that was conducted over 3 years (October 1982 to March 1986), in which 20 children were included from birth to 3 years of age. A total of 229 fecal samples were screened by real time RT‐PCR targeting the junction region (ORF 1/2) of the norovirus (NoV) genome. NoV‐positive samples were subjected to PCR and sequencing of the viral polymerase (ORF1) and viral protein 1 (VP1) genes (ORF2). The junction region was also sequenced to assess for recombination when ORF1 and ORF2 genotyping results were dissimilar. Samples classified as GII.P4/GII.4 were further characterized by sequencing the P2 subdomain of the viral capsid to determine possible alterations. An overall positivity of 16.1% (37/229) was observed, including GI (16.2%‐6/37) and GII (83.8%‐31/37) genogroups. Cases of NoV reinfection in at least 2‐month intervals were observed, and 12 children developed at least one case of asymptomatic NoV infection. In total, 48.6% (18/37) NoV‐positive samples were subjected to nucleotide sequencing analysis targeting the following polymerase genes: GI.P3 (n = 1), GII.Pa (n = 1), GII.Pc (n = 1), GII.P4 (n = 5), GII.P6 (n = 5), GII.P7 (n = 3), GII.P12 (n = 1), and GII.P22 (n = 1). For the VP1 gene, characterization was performed in 14 (77.8%) samples: GI.3 (n = 1), GII.2 (n = 1), GII.4 (n = 4), GII.6 (n = 4), GII.7 (n = 1), GII.12 (n = 1), GII.14 (n = 1), and GII.23 (n = 1). Recombination events were confirmed in three cases (GII.P12/GII.2, GII.P7/GII.14, and GII.Pa/GII.12), and four samples genotyped as GII.P4/GII.4 were analyzed to identify variants. None had contemporary counterparts. Three children developed consecutive NoV infections by different genotypes. The present report documents the importance of NoV as a cause of childhood infection during a longitudinal study conducted more than 30 years ago.
Predictive Validity of ICD‐11 PTSD as Measured by the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised: A 15‐Year Prospective Study of Political Prisoners
Authors: Hyland Philip , Brewin Chris R. , Maercker Andreas
Published: March 2017

The 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐11; World Health Organization, 2017) proposes a model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that includes 6 symptoms. This study assessed the ability of a classification‐independent measure of posttraumatic stress symptoms, the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised (Weiss & Marmar, 1996), to capture the ICD‐11 model of PTSD. The current study also provided the first assessment of the predictive validity of ICD‐11 PTSD. Former East German political prisoners were assessed in 1994 (N = 144) and in 2008‐2009 (N = 88) on numerous psychological variables using self‐report measures. Of the participants, 48.2% and 36.8% met probable diagnosis for ICD‐11 PTSD at the first and second assessments, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the factorial validity of the 3‐factor ICD‐11 model of PTSD, as represented by items selected from the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis demonstrated that, controlling for sex, the symptom clusters of ICD‐11 PTSD (reexperiencing, avoidance, and sense of threat) significantly contributed to the explanation of depression (R2 = .17), quality of life (R2 = .21), internalized anger (R2 = .10), externalized anger (R2 = .12), hatred of perpetrators (R2 = .15), dysfunctional disclosure (R2 = .27), and social acknowledgment as a victim (R2 = .12) across the 15‐year study period. Current findings add support for the factorial and predictive validity of ICD‐11 PTSD within a unique cohort of political prisoners.
Early career researchers and their publishing and authorship practices
Authors: Nicholas David , Rodríguez‐Bravo Blanca , Watkinson Anthony , Boukacem‐Zeghmouri Cherifa , Herman Eti , Xu Jie , Abrizah Abdullah , Świgoń Marzena
Published: March 2017

This study presents findings from the first year of the Harbingers research project, a 3‐year longitudinal study of early career researchers (ECRs), which sought to ascertain current and changing habits in scholarly communication. The study recruited 116 science and social science ECRs from seven countries who were subject to in‐depth interviews, and this paper reports on findings regarding publishing and authorship practices and attitudes. A major objective was to determine whether ECRs are taking the myriad opportunities proffered by new digital innovations, developing within the context of open science, open access, and social media, to publish their research. The main finding is that these opportunities are generally not taken because ECRs are constrained by convention and the precarious employment environment they inhabit and know what is best for them, which is to publish (in high impact factor journals) or perish.
Exploring Tyrosine‐Triazolinedione (TAD) Reactions for the Selective Conjugation and Cross‐Linking of N‐Carboxyanhydride (NCA) Derived Synthetic Copolypeptides
Authors: Hanay Saltuk B. , Ritzen Bas , Brougham Dermot , Dias Aylvin A. , Heise Andreas
Published: March 2017

Highly efficient functionalization and cross‐linking of polypeptides is achieved via tyrosine‐triazolinedione (TAD) conjugation chemistry. The feasibility of the reaction is demonstrated by the reaction of 4‐phenyl‐1,2,4‐triazoline‐3,5‐dione (PTAD) with tyrosine containing block copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)‐Tyr4 as well as a statistical copolymer of tyrosine and lysine (poly(Lys40‐st‐Tyr10)) prepared form N‐carboxyanhydride polymerization. Selective reaction of PTAD with the tyrosine units is obtained and verified by size exclusion chromatography and NMR spectroscopy. Moreover, two monofunctional and two difunctional TAD molecules are synthesized. It is found that their stability in the aqueous reaction media significantly varied. Under optimized reaction conditions selective functionalization and cross‐linking, yielding polypeptide hydrogels, can be achieved. TAD‐mediated conjugation can offer an interesting addition in the toolbox of selective (click‐like) polypeptide conjugation methodologies as it does not require functional non‐natural amino acids.

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Capitalizing on Protecting Groups to Influence Vinyl Catechol Monomer Reactivity and Monomer Gradient in Carbanionic Copolymerization
Authors: Leibig Daniel , Lange Anna‐Katharina , Birke Alexandra , Frey Holger
Published: March 2017

Several vinyl catechol‐based monomers with systematically varied acetal protecting groups suitable for carbanionic polymerization are introduced. All monomers are based on the 4‐vinyl benzodioxole or 5‐vinyl benzodioxole structure and differ in the nature of the protecting group for the catechol functionalities. Different symmetric ketones are used for the protection of the diol functionality. Polymers with average molecular weight from 2500 to 25 000 g mol−1 (Mw/Mn < 1.15) are obtained from homopolymerization of the protected monomers. All monomers are examined regarding the influence of the protecting group on the copolymerization behavior with styrene, using in situ 1H NMR kinetic studies. Length and structure of the alkyl chains generally show no influence for all monomers based on 5‐vinyl benzodioxole. In contrast, all monomers with the protecting group in direct vicinity to the propagating vinyl moiety exhibit dependence between monomer reactivity and chain length of the protecting group. A decrease of the monomer reactivity enables control of the gradient in the copolymerization with styrene. Finally, the first terpolymerization kinetics of a carbanionic polymerization in 1H NMR kinetics is presented, combining the monomers 3‐vinyl catechol acetonide, styrene, and 4‐vinyl catechol acetonide, which enables the one‐pot synthesis of double gradient terpolymers.

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Photodeformable Microspheres from Methacrylate‐Based Azo Homopolymers
Authors: Liu Bingyang , Zhou Yuqi , Zhou Xinran , Wang Xiaogong
Published: March 2017

In this study, two methacrylate‐based azo homopolymers are synthesized and used to fabricate photodeformable microspheres through a self‐assembling approach. The methacrylate‐based azo homopolymer with the narrow molecular weight distribution is synthesized by reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer polymerization, while the other with the relatively broad molecular weight distribution is synthesized by conventional radical polymerization. The azo polymers are characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis TGA, gel permeation chromatography GPC, and ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV–vis) m. The colloidal spheres are obtained by gradually adding deionized water into the solutions of the azo polymers in N,N‐dimethylformamide. Laser light scattering analysis and transmission electron microscopy observations show that although both azo polymers can form uniform colloidal spheres in the dispersions, the molecular weight and its distribution show significant effects on the colloid formation process and the sizes of the colloidal spheres formed in the process. Upon irradiation with a linearly polarized Ar+ laser beam for a period of time, the azo polymer microspheres show the elongated deformation along the polarization direction of the actinic light.

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Detecting in vivo urokinase plasminogen activator activity with a catalyCEST MRI contrast agent
Authors: Sinharay Sanhita , Howison Christine M. , Baker Amanda F. , Pagel Mark D.
Published: March 2017

Urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) promotes tumor invasion and metastasis. The monitoring of uPA activity using molecular imaging may have prognostic value and be predictive for response to anti‐cancer therapies. However, the detection of in vivo enzyme activity with molecular imaging remains a challenge. To address this problem, we designed a nonmetallic contrast agent, GR‐4Am‐SA, that can be detected with chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI. This agent has a peptide that is cleaved by uPA, which causes a CEST signal at 5.0 ppm to decrease, and also has a salicylic acid moiety that can produce a CEST signal at 9.5 ppm, which is largely unresponsive to enzyme activity. The two CEST signals were used to determine a reaction coordinate, representing the extent of enzyme‐catalyzed cleavage of the GR‐4Am‐SA agent during an experimental study. Initial biochemical studies showed that GR‐4Am‐SA could detect uPA activity in reducing conditions. Subsequently, we used our catalyCEST MRI protocol with the agent to detect the uPA catalysis of GR‐4Am‐SA in a flank xenograft model of Capan‐2 pancreatic cancer. The results showed an average reaction coordinate of 80% ± 8%, which was strongly dependent on the CEST signal at 5.0 ppm. The relative independence of the reaction coordinate on the CEST signal at 9.5 ppm showed that the detection of enzyme activity was largely independent of the concentration of GR‐4Am‐SA within the tumor tissue. These results demonstrated the advantages of a single CEST agent with biomarker‐responsive and unresponsive signals for reliably assessing enzyme activity during in vivo cancer studies.
Adapting an attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder parent training intervention to different cultural contexts: The experience of implementing the New Forest Parenting Programme in China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Japan, and the United Kingdom
Authors: Thompson Margaret J. J. , Au Alma , Laver‐Bradbury Cathy , Lange Anne‐Mette , Tripp Gail , Shimabukuro Shizuka , Zhang Jin S. , Shuai Lan , Thompson Catherine E. , Daley David , Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.
Published: March 2017

The New Forest Parenting Programme (NFPP) is a parenting program developed for parents who have a child with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a manualized program that is delivered in a parent's home over 8 weeks, or in a group format, or through a self‐help manual. Three randomized controlled trials have been carried out in the United Kingdom. The NFPP group has adapted the program according to feedback from parents and therapists, and for use with different populations, both within the United Kingdom and internationally. The first international trial took place in New York, United States. Trials in Denmark, Hong Kong, and Japan followed. More recently, a trial of the self‐help manual has been carried out in mainland China. This paper will outline the adaptions that were needed in order to be able to deliver the program in different countries with their own expectations of parenting, culture, and language. Training had to be differently focused; manuals and handouts had to be revised, translated and back‐translated; and supervision had to be delivered at a distance to maintain the fidelity of the program. The international group will outline their experience of running trials in their own countries with the NFPP in a face‐to‐face format (Denmark), a group format (Hong Kong and Japan), and a self‐help format (mainland China).
The differential plasma proteome of obese and overweight individuals undergoing a nutritional weight loss and maintenance intervention
Authors: Oller Moreno Sergio , Cominetti Ornella , Núñez Galindo Antonio , Irincheeva Irina , Corthésy John , Astrup Arne , Saris Wim H.M. , Hager Jörg , Kussmann Martin , Dayon Loïc
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The nutritional intervention program “DiOGenes” focuses on how obesity can be prevented and treated from a dietary perspective. We generated differential plasma proteome profiles in the DiOGenes cohort to identify proteins associated with weight loss and maintenance and explore their relation to body mass index, fat mass, insulin resistance, and sensitivity.

Experimental design

Relative protein quantification was obtained at baseline and after combined weight loss/maintenance phases using isobaric tagging and MS/MS. A Welch t‐test determined proteins differentially present after intervention. Protein relationships with clinical variables were explored using univariate linear models, considering collection center, gender and age as confounding factors.

Results

Four hundred and seventy three subjects were measured at baseline and end of the intervention; 39 proteins were longitudinally differential. Proteins with largest changes were sex hormone‐binding globulin, adiponectin, C‐reactive protein, calprotectin, serum amyloid A, and proteoglycan 4 (PRG4), whose association with obesity and weight loss is known. We identified new putative biomarkers for weight loss/maintenance. Correlation between PRG4 and proline‐rich acidic protein 1 variation and Matsuda insulin sensitivity increment was showed.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

MS‐based proteomic analysis of a large cohort of non‐diabetic overweight and obese individuals concomitantly identified known and novel proteins associated with weight loss and maintenance.
Generation of monoclonal antibodies against mitocryptide‐2: toward a new strategy to investigate the biological roles of cryptides
Authors: Hattori Tatsuya , Yamada Takenori , Morikawa Hiroki , Marutani Takayuki , Tsutsumi Koki , Nishino Kodai , Shimizu Toshihiro , Nishi Yoshisuke , Kiso Yoshiaki , Mukai Hidehito
Published: March 2017

We recently identified a novel family of neutrophil‐activating peptides including mitocryptide‐1 and mitocryptide‐2 (MCT‐2) that are endogenously produced from various mitochondrial proteins. Among them, MCT‐2 is an N‐formylated pentadecapeptide derived from mitochondrial cytochrome b and is found to promote neutrophilic migration and phagocytosis efficiently. Signaling mechanisms of neutrophil activation by MCT‐2 have been investigated at the cellular level, and MCT‐2 has been demonstrated to be an endogenous specific ligand for formyl peptide receptor‐2 (also referred to as formyl peptide receptor‐like 1). It was also found that MCT‐2 promoted neutrophilic functions via the activation of Gi2 proteins and phosphorylation of ERK1/2 consecutively. However, the physiological production, distribution, and functions of MCT‐2 are not yet elucidated. Here, to investigate the roles of MCT‐2 in vivo, we generated monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against human MCT‐2 (hMCT‐2) that have two different characteristics. One mAb, NhM2A1, not only bound to the region of positions 10–15 of hMCT‐2 but also recognized its C‐terminal cleavage site that is presumably produced upon enzymatic hydrolysis of cytochrome b, indicating that NhM2A1 specifically interacts with hMCT‐2 but not its parent protein. Moreover, we succeeded in acquiring a specific neutralizing mAb, NhM2A5, which blocks the bioactivities of hMCT‐2. Specifically, NhM2A5 inhibited hMCT‐2‐induced β‐hexosaminidase release in neutrophilic/granulocytic differentiated HL‐60 cells by binding to the region of positions 5–12 of hMCT‐2. Functional analysis using obtained mAbs that specifically recognize hMCT‐2 but not its parent protein, cytochrome b, and that neutralize bioactivities of hMCT‐2 is expected to reveal the physiological roles of MCT‐2, which are presently very difficult to investigate. Copyright © 2017 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasensitive Detection of Prostate‐Specific Antigen and Thrombin Based on Gold‐Upconversion Nanoparticle Assembled Pyramids
Authors: Hao Tiantian , Wu Xiaoling , Xu Liguang , Liu Liqiang , Ma Wei , Kuang Hua , Xu Chuanlai
Published: March 2017

Self‐assembled nanostructures have been used for the detection of numerous cancer biomarkers. In this study, a gold‐upconversion‐nanoparticle (Au‐UCNP) pyramid based on aptamers is fabricated to simultaneously detect thrombin and prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and fluorescence, respectively. The higher the concentration of thrombin, the lower the intensity of SERS. PSA connected with the PSA aptamer leads to an increase in fluorescence intensity. The limit of detection of thrombin and PSA reaches 57 × 10−18 and 0.032 × 10−18m, respectively. In addition, the pyramid also exhibits great target specificity. The results of human serum target detection demonstrate that the Au‐UCNP pyramid is an excellent choice for the quantitative determination of cancer biomarkers, and is feasible for the early diagnosis of cancer.
Aluminum‐Ion‐Intercalation Supercapacitors with Ultrahigh Areal Capacitance and Highly Enhanced Cycling Stability: Power Supply for Flexible Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Li Kerui , Shao Yuanlong , Liu Shiyi , Zhang Qinghong , Wang Hongzhi , Li Yaogang , Kaner Richard B.
Published: March 2017

Electrochemical capacitor systems based on Al ions can offer the possibilities of low cost and high safety, together with a three‐electron redox‐mechanism‐based high capacity, and thus are expected to provide a feasible solution to meet ever‐increasing energy demands. Here, highly efficient Al‐ion intercalation into W18O49 nanowires (W18O49NWs) with wide lattice spacing and layered single‐crystal structure for electrochemical storage is demonstrated. Moreover, a freestanding composite film with a hierarchical porous structure is prepared through vacuum‐assisted filtration of a mixed dispersion containing W18O49NWs and single‐walled carbon nanotubes. The as‐prepared composite electrode exhibits extremely high areal capacitances of 1.11–2.92 F cm−2 and 459 F cm−3 at 2 mA cm−2, enhanced electrochemical stability in the Al3+ electrolyte, as well as excellent mechanical properties. An Al‐ion‐based, flexible, asymmetric electrochemical capacitor is assembled that displays a high volumetric energy density of 19.0 mWh cm−3 at a high power density of 295 mW cm−3. Finally, the Al‐ion‐based asymmetric supercapacitor is used as the power source for poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐based electrochromic devices, demonstrating their promising capability in flexible electronic devices.
From Fontainebleau to Facebook: The Early Modern Discourse of Personal Sincerity and Its Echoes in the Contemporary Discourse of Organisational Transparency
Authors: Ward Sean
Published: March 2017

In the past four decades, transparency has gone from being primarily a clear plastic sheet used with overhead projectors to being primarily a quality of organisations. The pledge to provide (or, in corporate jargon, deliver) this quality has become an almost indispensable element of political speeches, earnings calls and product descriptions. The proliferation of digital technology and social networks has intensified this trend. This paper argues that our era's fascination with transparency was prefigured by early modernity's fascination with sincerity. A comparison of the two discourses shows that the functioning, purpose and benefits that 17th‐century and 18th‐century observers ascribed to sincerity are remarkably similar to those that 21st‐century observers ascribe to transparency. This paper also interprets recent proposals for regulatory reform as digital‐age refashionings of Immanuel Kant's categorical imperative. Finally, it examines current speculations about the effect radical transparency is having on concepts of identity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Comprehensive Review of Pediatric Tumors and Associated Cancer Predisposition Syndromes
Authors: Scollon Sarah , Anglin Amanda Knoth , Thomas Martha , Turner Joyce T. , Wolfe Schneider Kami
Published: March 2017

An understanding of the role of inherited cancer predisposition syndromes in pediatric tumor diagnoses continues to develop as more information is learned through the application of genomic technology. Identifying patients and their relatives at an increased risk for developing cancer is an important step in the care of this patient population. The purpose of this review is to highlight various tumor types that arise in the pediatric population and the cancer predisposition syndromes associated with those tumors. The review serves as a guide for recognizing genes and conditions to consider when a pediatric cancer referral presents to the genetics clinic.
Public's Views toward Return of Secondary Results in Genomic Sequencing: It's (Almost) All about the Choice
Authors: Ryan Kerry A. , De Vries Raymond G. , Uhlmann Wendy R. , Roberts J. Scott , Gornick Michele C.
Published: March 2017

The therapeutic use of genomic sequencing creates novel and unresolved questions about cost, clinical efficacy, access, and the disclosure of sequencing results. The disclosure of the secondary results of sequencing poses a particularly challenging ethical problem. Experts disagree about which results should be shared and public input – especially important for the creation of disclosure policies – is complicated by the complex nature of genetics. Recognizing the value of deliberative democratic methods for soliciting informed public opinion on matters like these, we recruited participants from a clinical research site for an all‐day deliberative democracy (DD) session. Participants were introduced to the clinical and ethical issues associated with genomic sequencing, after which they discussed the tradeoffs and offered their opinions about policies for the return of secondary results. Participants (n = 66; mean age = 57 (SD = 15); 70% female; 76% white) were divided into 10 small groups (5 to 8 participants each) allowing interactive deliberation on policy options for the return of three categories of secondary results: 1) medically actionable results; 2) risks for adult‐onset disorders identified in children; and 3) carrier status for autosomal recessive disorders. In our qualitative analysis of the session transcripts, we found that while participants favored choice and had a preference for making information available, they also acknowledged the risks (and benefits) of learning such information. Our research reveals the nuanced reasoning used by members of the public when weighing the pros and cons of receiving genomic information, enriching our understanding of the findings of surveys of attitudes regarding access to secondary results.
Paleoethnobotanical Sampling Adequacy and Ubiquity
Authors: Diehl Michael W.
Published: March 2017

Archaeological researchers and compliance review officers need to know whether or not a research plan will yield sufficient information to meet research objectives. Despite the need, a key question is often not addressed in proposals or reports: how many flotation samples are sufficient to adequately characterize the food procurement practices at an archaeological site? This article reviews the relationship between ubiquity and statistical probability. By considering the relationship between theoretical ubiquity, measured ubiquity, population ubiquity, and statistical probability, archaeological researchers and compliance officers may assess how many samples must be analyzed in order to adequately characterize the paleoethnobotanical assemblage from a site. These considerations generally apply to any other archaeological data in which presence-absence measures are commonly used and are especially relevant to diet-breadth models in the interest arena of behavioral ecology.
Del NorteMeets Little Saigon: Ethnic Entrepreneurship on Broadway Avenue in Wichita, Kansas, 1970–2015
Authors: PRICE JAY M. , ABDINNOUR SUE , HUGHES DAVID T.
Published: March 2017

Since the 1970s, a stretch of Broadway Avenue in Wichita, Kansas, has seen the growth of both Latino and Asian businesses. Using mapping, data analysis, and historical research, this study compares the growth of ethnic entrepreneurship between both populations. The results not only reveal similarities but also illustrate the degree to which ethnic entrepreneurship varies, depending on a population’s situation in a given location.
On the non-parallel instability of the rotating-sphere boundary layer
Authors: Segalini Antonio , Garrett Stephen J.
Published: March 2017

We present a new solution for the steady boundary-layer flow over the rotating sphere that also accounts for the eruption of the boundary layer at the equator and other higher-order viscous effects. Non-parallel corrections to the local type I and type II convective instability modes of this flow are also computed as a function of spin rate. Our instability results are associated with the previously observed spiral vortices and remarkable agreement between our predictions of the number of vortices and experimental observations is found. Vortices travelling at 70 %–80 % of the local surface speed are found to be the most amplified for sufficient spin rates, also consistent with prior experimental observations.