bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paternal uniparental disomy 11p15.5 in the pancreatic nodule of an infant with Costello syndrome: Shared mechanism for hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia in neonates with Costello and Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome and somatic loss of heterozygosity in Costello syndrome driving clonal expansion
Authors: Gripp Karen W. , Robbins Katherine M. , Sheffield Brandon S. , Lee Anna F. , Patel Millan S. , Yip Stephen , Doyle Daniel , Stabley Deborah , Sol‐Church Katia
Published: November 2015

Costello syndrome (CS) entails a cancer predisposition and is caused by activating HRAS mutations, typically arising de novo in the paternal germline. Hypoglycemia is common in CS neonates. A previously reported individual with the rare HRAS p.Gln22Lys had hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia. Autopsy showed a discrete pancreatic nodule. The morphologic and immunohistochemistry findings, including loss of p57Kip2 protein, were identical to a focal lesion of congenital hyperinsulinism, however, no KCNJ11 or ABCC8 mutation was identified and germline derived DNA showed no alternation of the maternal or paternal 11p15 alleles. Here we report paternal uniparental disomy (pUPD) within the lesion, similar to the pUPD11p15.5 in Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). The similar extent of the pUPD suggests a similar mechanism driving hyperinsulinemia in both conditions. After coincidental somatic LOH and pUPD, the growth promoting effects of the paternally derived HRAS mutation, in combination with the increased function of the adjacent paternally expressed IGF2, may together result in clonal expansion. Although this somatic LOH within pancreatic tissue resulted in hyperinsulinism, similar LOH in mesenchymal cells may drive embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS). Interestingly, biallelic IGF2 expression has been linked to rhabdomyosarcoma tumorigenesis and pUPD11 occurred in all 8 ERMS samples from CS individuals. Somatic KRAS and HRAS mutations occur with comparable frequency in isolated malignancies. Yet, the malignancy risk in CS is notably higher than in Noonan syndrome with a KRAS mutation. It is conceivable that HRAS co‐localization with IGF2 and the combined effect of pUPD 11p15.5 on both genes contributes to the oncogenic potential. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Strong light‐matter coupling between a molecular vibrational mode in a PMMA film and a low‐loss mid‐IR microcavity
Authors: Muallem Merav , Palatnik Alex , Nessim Gilbert D. , Tischler Yaakov R.
Published: November 2015

Microcavity devices exhibiting strong light‐matter coupling in the mid‐infrared spectral range offer the potential to explore exciting open physical questions pertaining to energy transfer between heat and light and can lead to a new generation of efficient wavelength tunable mid‐infrared sources of coherent light based on polariton Bose‐Einstein Condensation. Vibrational transitions of organic molecules, which often have strong absorption peaks in the infrared and considerably narrower linewidths than organic excitonic resonances, can generate polaritonic states in the mid‐infrared spectral range using microcavity devices. Here, narrow linewidth polaritonic resonances are exhibited in the mid‐infrared by coupling the carbonyl stretch vibrational transition of a polymethyl methacrylate film to the photonic resonance of a low optical‐loss mid‐infrared microcavity, which consisted of two Ge/ZnS dielectric Bragg reflectors. Rabi‐splitting of 14.3 meV is observed, with a 4.4 meV polariton linewidth at anti‐crossing. The large Rabi‐splitting relative to linewidth indicates efficient impedance‐matching between the bare vibrational and photonic states, and suggests molecular‐vibration polaritons incorporated in dielectric microcavities can be an enabling step towards realizing polariton optical switching and polariton condensation in the mid‐infrared spectral range.
Effects of TRiEGME on water icing behavior in aviation turbine fuel
Authors: Chen K. , Sun T. , Xiang H.
Published: November 2015

The high vapor pressure of diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, the only approved civil aviation fuel system icing inhibitor (FSII), causes the peeling of fuel tank topcoat material. This leads to increased maintenance costs and decreased aircraft mission capabilities. Triethylene glycol monomethyl ether (TriEGME) has been proposed as a potential replacement as it has a low vapor pressure and can partition into any free water in the fuel forming a solution with a low freezing point. However, its use has not been approved by airworthiness authority because very few data are available for its impacts on water solubility and icing behavior in fuel. The effects of TriEGME on water solubility, solidification temperature, and water icing behavior in fuel were thoroughly studied. At added concentration ranging from 0.10 to 0.15 vol. % water solubility in jet fuel almost tripled compared with that without FSII. The solidification temperatures for water in fuel with FSII and for mixture of water and FSII decreased with increased FSII concentration. Moreover, partition coefficient, defined as equilibrium FSII concentration in aqueous phase divided by equilibrium FSII concentration in fuel phase, decreased with increased FSII concentration in fuel. At equilibrium condition with fixed FSII concentration in fuel, decrease in fuel temperature led to an increase in partition coefficient. An estimation of required dosage for TriEGME to prevent water icing in fuel can be achieved by comparison of TriEGME concentration in aqueous phase with its corresponding freezing temperature. © 2015 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of the addition of carbon black on the carbonization and flame retardancy of polypropylene in combination with nickel–molybdenum–magnesium catalysts
Authors: Song Rongjun , Ren Zhengru
Published: November 2015

Carbon black particles were incorporated into the polypropylene (PP) in combination with Ni–Mo–Mg catalysts to investigate their influences on the carbonization and flame retardancy of PP. The results demonstrate that the carbon black exhibited a very positive effect on the char yield of PP in a pyrolyzation experiment with different temperatures. For pyrolyzation at 750 and 550°C, the PP/5% Ni–Mo–Mg/5% carbon black blends gave 56 and 37.1% char yields, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy results, and direct optical observations from designed experiments all demonstrated a combination of carbon black with growing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for the generation of char with integrated and compact structures. Cone calorimeter and limited oxygen index tests confirmed that the integration of carbon black particles and CNTs led to a significant improvement in the flame retardancy of PP. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43034.
Gas transport properties in (6FDA‐RTIL)‐(6FDA‐MDA) block copolyimides
Authors: Zhang Caili , Cao Bing , Coleman Maria R. , Li Pei
Published: November 2015

This article reports synthesis and structure property studies of block copolyimides synthesized using diamino room temperature ionic liquids (RTIL) as diamine monomers. Specifically, polyimide oligomers of different lengths were synthesized using 2,2‐bis (3,4‐carboxylphenyl) hexafluoropropane dianhydride (6FDA) and diamino RTIL (1,3‐di(3‐aminopropyl) imidazolium bis[(trifluoromethyl) sulfonyl] imide). These oligomers were copolymerized with 6FDA and m‐phenylenediamine (MDA) using in situ polymerization to form (6FDA‐RTIL)‐(6FDA‐MDA) block copolyimides. The impact of the length and relative concentration of 6FDA‐RTIL oligomer in the copolymer on the resulting thermal, physical, and gas transport properties was monitored. As the concentration of the 6FDA‐RTIL segments increased, the backbone of the block copolyimides became more flexible resulting in a decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg) and an increase in the density. The permeabilities of the RTIL containing copolyimides were consistently lower than those of the base polyimide, 6FDA‐MDA, with some increase in selectivities. Interestingly, the permeabilities of films produced with the low molecular weight oligomers were very different than those produced with same composition of the high molecular weight oligomers. This may be indicative of very different morphologies within these copolyimides. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43077.
Fabrication of Ultrafine Palladium Phosphide Nanoparticles as Highly Active Catalyst for Chemoselective Hydrogenation of Alkynes
Authors: Zhao Ming
Published: November 2015

Monodisperse palladium phosphide nanoparticles (Pd–P NPs) with a smallest size ever reported of 3.9 nm were fabricated using cheap and stable triphenylphosphine as phosphorous source. After the deposition and calcination at 300 °C and 400 °C, the resulting Pd–P NPs increased in size to 4.0 nm and 4.8 nm, respectively. Notably, the latter NPs probably crystallized with a single phase of Pd3P0.95, which acted as a highly active catalyst in semi‐ and stereoselective hydrogenation of alkynes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis determined a positive shift of binding energy for Pd(3d) in Pd–P NPs compared to that in Pd on carbon. It indicated the electron flow from metal to phosphorus and the larger electron deficiency of Pd in Pd–P NPs, which suppressed palladium hydride formation and subsequently increased the selectivity. Thus, this result may also indicate the applications of Pd–P and other metal–P NPs in various selective hydrogenation reactions.
A Comprehensive Study on Lyotropic Liquid–Crystalline Behavior of an Amphiphile in 20 Kinds of Amino Acid Ionic Liquids
Authors: Fujimura Kanae , Ichikawa Takahiro , Yoshio Masafumi , Kato Takashi , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: November 2015

We examined the self‐organization behavior of a designed amphiphilic molecule in 20 kinds of amino acid ionic liquids composed of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium cation and natural amino acid anion ([C4mim][AA]). Addition of [C4mim][AA], regardless of their anion species, to the amphiphile provided homogeneous mixtures showing lyotropic liquid–crystalline (LC) behavior. Upon increasing the component ratio of [C4mim][AA] in the mixtures, a successive change of the mesophase patterns from inverted hexagonal columnar, in some case via bicontinuous cubic, to layered phases was observed. By examining the LC properties at various temperatures and component ratios, we constructed lyotropic LC phase diagrams. Interestingly, the appearance of these phase diagrams is greatly different according to the selection of [AA]. Through comparison, we found that the self‐organization behavior of an amphiphile in ionic liquids can be tuned by controlling their ability to form hydrogen‐bond, van der Waals, and π‐π interactions.
Nonlinear Adaptive Control of a Hybrid Fuel Cell Power System for Electric Vehicles – a Lyapunov Stability Based Approach
Authors: Tahri Abdelouahad , El Fadil Hassan , Giri Fouad , Chaoui Fatima‐Zahra
Published: November 2015

This study deals with the problem of controlling hybrid storage systems in electric vehicles. The storage system includes a DC‐to‐DC switched power converter of boost type associated with a fuel‐cell generator and a buck boost converter connected to a supercapacitor. Both converters operate according to the PWM principle and the whole system model is nonlinear and subject to parameter uncertainties. The control objective is threefold: ensuring a tight dc bus voltage regulation despite the uncertainties on the fuel cell (FC) voltage–current characteristic and on the load converter; (2) guaranteeing a perfect tracking of supercapacitor (SC) current to its reference despite the SC capacitance uncertainty; ensuring asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop system. The control problem is dealt with using a nonlinear adaptive controller designed by the Lyapunov approach. It is formally shown that the proposed controller meets all its control objectives. This theoretical achievement is confirmed by several simulations.
A sensitive fluorescence method for detection of E. Coli using rhodamine 6G dyeing
Authors: Wang Yaohui , Jiang Caina , Wen Guiqing , Zhang Xinghui , Luo Yanghe , Qin Aimiao , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: November 2015

Negatively charged bacteria combined with positively charged alkaline dye rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) in NaH2PO4–Na2HPO4 buffer solution pH 7.4, by electrostatic interaction. The dyed bacteria exhibited a strong fluorescence peak at 552 nm and fluorescence intensity was directly linear to Escherichia coli (E. coli), Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) concentrations in the range of 7.06 × 104 to 3.53 × 107, 4.95 × 105 to 2.475 × 108 and 32.5 to 16250 colony forming unit/mL (cfu/mL) respectively, with detection limits of 3.2 × 104 cfu/mL E. coli, 2.3 × 105 cfu/mL B. subtilis and 16 cfu/mL S. aureus, respectively. Samples were cultured for 12 h, after which the linear detection range for E. coli was 2 to 88 cfu/mL. This simple, rapid and sensitive method was used for the analysis of water and drinking samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformation of poly(γ‐glutamic acid) in aqueous solution
Authors: Muroga Yoshio , Nakaya Asami , Inoue Atsuki , Itoh Daiki , Abiru Masaya , Wada Kaori , Takada Masako , Ikake Hiroki , Shimizu Shigeru
Published: November 2015

Local conformation and overall conformation of poly(γ‐DL‐glutamic acid) (PγDLGA) and poly(γ‐L‐glutamic acid) (PγLGA) in aqueous solution was studied as a function of degree of ionization ε by 1H‐NMR, circular dichroism, and potentiometric titration. It was clarified that their local conformation is represented by random coil over an entire ε range and their overall conformation is represented by expanded random‐coil in a range of ε > ε*, where ε* is about 0.3, 0.35, 0.45, and 0.5 for added‐salt concentration of 0.02M, 0.05M, 0.1M, and 0.2M, respectively. In a range of ε < ε*, however, ε dependence of their overall conformation is significantly differentiated from each other. PγDLGA tends to aggregate intramolecularly and/or intermolecularly with decreasing ε, but PγLGA still behaves as expanded random‐coil. It is speculated that spatial arrangement of adjacent carboxyl groups along the backbone chain essentially affects the overall conformation of PγGA in acidic media. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 191–198, 2016.
Interaction of cationic dodecyl‐trimethyl‐ammonium bromide with oxy‐HbGp by isothermal titration and differential scanning calorimetric studies: Effect of proximity of isoelectric point
Authors: Alves Fernanda Rosa , Carvalho Francisco Adriano O. , Carvalho José Wilson P. , Tabak Marcel
Published: November 2015

In this work, isothermal titration and differential scanning calorimetric methods, in combination with pyrene fluorescence emission and dynamic light scattering have been used to investigate the interaction of dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (DTAB) with the giant extracellular Glossoscolex paulistus hemoglobin (HbGp) in the oxy‐form, at pH values around the isoelectric point (pI ≈ 5.5). Our ITC results have shown that the interaction of DTAB with the hemoglobin is more intense at pH 7.0, with a smaller cac (critical aggregation concentration) value. The increase of protein concentration does not influence the cac value of the interaction, at both pH values. Therefore, the beginning of the DTAB‐oxy‐HbGp premicellar aggregates formation, in the cac region, is not affected by the increase of protein concentration. HSDSC studies show higher Tm values at pH 5.0, in the absence and presence of DTAB, when compared with pH 7.0. Furthermore, at pH 7.0, an aggregation process is observed with DTAB in the range from 0.75 to 1.5 mmol/L, noticed by the exothermic peak, and similar to that observed for pure oxy‐HbGp, at pH 5.0, and in the presence of DTAB. DLS melting curves show a decrease on the hemoglobin thermal stability for the oxy‐HbGp‐DTAB mixtures and formation of larger aggregates, at pH 7.0. Our present data, together with previous results, support the observation that the protein structural changes, at pH 7.0, occur at smaller DTAB concentrations, as compared with pH 5.0, due to the acidic pI of protein that favors the oxy‐HbGp‐cationic surfactant interaction at neutral pH. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 199–211, 2016.
A simplified process design for P450 driven hydroxylation based on surface displayed enzymes
Authors: Ströhle Frank W. , Kranen Eva , Schrader Jens , Maas Ruth , Holtmann Dirk
Published: November 2015

New production routes for fine and bulk chemicals are important to establish further sustainable processes in industry. Besides the identification of new biocatalysts and new production routes the optimization of existing processes in regard to an improved utilization of the catalysts are needed. In this paper we describe the successful expression of P450BM3 on the surface of E. coli cells with the Autodisplay system. The successful hydroxylation of palmitic acid by using surface‐displayed P450BM3 was shown. Besides optimization of surface protein expression, several cofactor regeneration systems were compared and evaluated. Afterwards, the development of a suitable process for the biocatalytic hydroxylation of fatty acids based on the re‐use of the catalysts after a simple centrifugation was investigated. It was shown that the catalyst can be used for several times without any loss in activity. By using surface‐displayed P450s in combination with an enzymatic cofactor regeneration system a total turnover number of up to 54,700 could be reached, to the knowledge of the authors the highest value reported for a P450 monooxygenase to date. Further optimizations of the described reaction system can have an enormous impact on the process design for more sustainable bioprocesses. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 1225–1233. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of delay between imaging and treatment in patients with potentially curable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Sanjeevi S , Ivanics T , Lundell L , Kartalis N , Andrén-Sandberg Å , Blomberg J , Del Chiaro M , Ansorge C
Published: November 2015

Background

Locoregional pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) may progress rapidly and/or disseminate despite having an early stage at diagnostic imaging. A prolonged interval from imaging to resection might represent a risk factor for encountering tumour progression at laparotomy. The aim of this study was to determine the therapeutic window for timely surgical intervention.

Methods

This observational cohort study included patients with histologically confirmed PDAC scheduled for resection with curative intent from 2008 to 2014. The impact of imaging-to-resection/reassessment (IR) interval, vascular involvement and tumour size on local tumour progression or presence of metastases at reimaging or laparotomy was evaluated using univariable and multivariable regression. Risk estimates were approximated using hazard ratios (HRs).

Results

Median IR interval was 42 days. Of 349 patients scheduled for resection, 82 had unresectable disease (resectability rate 76·5 per cent). The unresectability rate was zero when the IR interval was 22 days or shorter, and was lower for an IR interval of 32 days or less compared with longer waiting times (13 versus 26·2 per cent; HR 0·42, P = 0·021). It was also lower for tumours smaller than 30 mm than for larger tumours (13·9 versus 32·5 per cent; HR 0·34, P < 0·001). Tumours with no or minor vascular involvement showed decreased rates of unresectable disease (20·6 per cent versus 38 per cent when there was major or combined vascular involvement; HR 0·43, P = 0·007). However, this failed to reach statistical significance on multivariable analysis (P = 0·411), in contrast to IR interval (P = 0·028) and tumour size (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Operation within 32 days of diagnostic imaging reduced the risk of tumour progression to unresectable disease by half compared with a longer waiting time. The results of this study highlight the importance of efficient clinical PDAC management.
Radiofrequency ablation as an alternative to hepatic resection for single small hepatocellular carcinomas
Authors: Kim G-A , Shim J H , Kim M-J , Kim S Y , Won H J , Shin Y M , Kim P N , Kim K-H , Lee S-G , Lee H C
Published: November 2015

Background

This study aimed to investigate whether radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an alternative to surgical resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within the context of current guidelines.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with normal portal pressure and serum bilirubin level who initially underwent liver resection or RFA for a single HCC of maximum size 3 cm. Between-group differences in cumulative rates of survival and recurrence specific for HCC were analysed in the entire cohort and in a propensity score-matched cohort.

Results

A total of 604 patients were enrolled, 273 in the liver resection group and 331 in the RFA group. The 5- and 10-year HCC-specific survival rates for the resection and RFA groups were 87·6 versus 82·1 per cent and 59·0 versus 61·2 per cent respectively (P = 0·214), whereas overall 5- and 10-year recurrence-free survival rates for the corresponding groups were 60·6 versus 39·4 per cent and 37·5 versus 25·1 per cent respectively (P < 0·001). In the propensity score-matched cohort (152 pairs), there were no differences in HCC-specific survival (hazard ratio (HR) 1·03 for RFAversus resection; P = 0·899), whereas recurrence-free survival again differed between the treatment groups (HR 1·75; P < 0·001). RFA was independently associated with poorer outcomes in terms of treatment-site recurrence-free survival (adjusted HR 1·66; P = 0·026), but not non-treatment-site recurrence-free survival (adjusted HR 1·15; P = 0·354).

Conclusion

Although RFA carries a higher risk of treatment-site recurrence than hepatic resection, it provides comparable overall survival in patients with a single small HCC without portal hypertension or a raised bilirubin level.
Inhibition of Kallikrein‐Related Peptidases 7 and 5 by Grafting Serpin Reactive‐Center Loop Sequences onto Sunflower Trypsin Inhibitor‐1 (SFTI‐1)
Authors: Jendrny Cathleen , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: November 2015

Serpin proteins irreversibly inhibit serine proteases, but only a small part of the serpin reactive‐center loop (RCL) is responsible for the initial protein–protein interaction (PPI). To develop peptidic protease inhibitors, kallikrein‐related peptidases 7 (KLK7) and 5 (KLK5) were chosen. Firstly, we demonstrated that short peptides derived from RCL sequences can be cleaved by KLK7 in a substrate‐like manner. Next, these substrates were grafted onto the protease‐binding loop of sunflower trypsin inhibitor‐1 (SFTI‐1). Peptides based on kallistatin, α1‐antichymotrypsin, and protein C inhibitor (PCI) inhibited KLK7 with Ki=0.4, 0.5, and 0.7 μm, respectively. In contrast, the trypsin‐like KLK5 was only blocked by the peptide derived from PCI (Ki=0.6 μm). Thus, serpin function can be mimicked by introducing its PPI site into the rigid structure of the SFTI‐1 scaffold. This approach might be applicable not only to KLKs but also to other serine protease members, thus opening up new therapeutic fields.
Glycan‐Mediated, Ligand‐Controlled Click Chemistry for Drug‐Target Identification
Authors: Stöckmann Henning , Marin Violeta L. , Nimmer Paul , Balut Corina M. , Davidson Donald J. , Richardson Paul L. , Vasudevan Anil
Published: November 2015

Membrane‐bound proteins are important pharmaceutical drug targets, yet few strategies exist for the identification of small‐molecule‐targeted membrane proteins in live‐cell systems. By exploiting metabolic glycan engineering of cell membrane proteins, we have developed an in situ glycan‐mediated ligand‐controlled click (“GLiCo‐Click”) chemistry methodology that enables the attachment of small‐molecule chemical probes to their receptor protein through glycans on live cells. In addition to enabling receptor enrichment from cell lysates, this strategy can be used to demonstrate target receptor engagement and enables the molecular characterization of receptors.
Recent Developments in Homogeneous Organomagnesium Catalysis
Authors: Rochat Raphaël , Lopez Michael J. , Tsurugi Hayato , Mashima Kazushi
Published: November 2015

Stoichiometric organomagnesium chemistry has continually progressed since its initiation by Victor Grignard over one century ago. Other than acting as a Lewis acid, however, homogeneous magnesium catalysis is a rare topic in the literature. Magnesium catalysts that govern reactions within the coordination sphere of magnesium have only recently begun to appear. This Concept covers recent progress in this young but potentially powerful new chapter of magnesium chemistry.
OMCVD Gold Nanoparticles Covalently Attached to Polystyrene for Biosensing Applications
Authors: Kandeepan Sivayini , Paquette Joseph A. , Gilroy Joe B. , Mittler Silvia
Published: November 2015

Remarkable developments and successes are witnessed in the fabrication and implementation of optical sensors based on localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) for the investigation of chemical and biological material quantities. We report on the reproducible fabrication of chemically stable surface immobilized AuNPs grown via organometallic chemical vapor deposition (OMCVD) on a polymer substrate, namely polystyrene (PS). Oxygen plasma‐treated and UV ozone‐treated PS samples depict enhanced amounts of polar ‐OH groups allowing for nucleation and growth of AuNPs. The optimum plasma treatment conditions, the largest shifts in the LSPR curves, and the bulk sensitivity of the OMCVD‐grown AuNPs are discussed.
Silicon Oxycarbide Films Produced by Remote Microwave Hydrogen Plasma CVD using a Tetramethyldisiloxane Precursor: Growth Kinetics, Structure, Surface Morphology, and Properties
Authors: Wrobel Aleksander M. , Uznanski Pawel , Walkiewicz‐Pietrzykowska Agnieszka
Published: November 2015

Amorphous hydrogenated silicon oxycarbide (a‐SiCO:H) thin films are produced by remote microwave hydrogen plasma CVD using 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisiloxane precursor. The effect of substrate temperature (TS) on the chemical structure and some properties of resulting a‐SiCO:H films is reported. The examination performed by infrared spectroscopy revealed that the increase in TS involves the elimination of organic moieties from the film and its transformation from polymer‐like to ceramic‐like high‐crosslink‐density material. Due to their small surface roughness, high density, and good optical transparency, the a‐SiCO:H films seem to be useful coatings for optical and electronic devices.
Generation of a conditional lima1a allele in zebrafish using the FLEx switch technology
Authors: Jungke Peggy , Hans Stefan , Gupta Mansi , Machate Anja , Zöller Daniela , Brand Michael
Published: November 2015

Gene trapping has emerged as a valuable tool to create conditional alleles in various model organisms. Here we report the FLEx‐based gene trap vector SAGFLEx that allows the generation of conditional mutations in zebrafish by gene‐trap mutagenesis. The SAGFLEx gene‐trap cassette comprises the rabbit β‐globin splice acceptor and the coding sequence of GFP, flanked by pairs of inversely oriented heterotypic target sites for the site‐specific recombinases Cre and Flp. Insertion of the gene‐trap cassette into endogenous genes can result in conditional mutations that are stably inverted by Cre and Flp, respectively. To test the functionality of this system we performed a pilot screen and analyzed the insertion of the gene‐trap cassette into the lima1a gene locus. In this lima1a allele, GFP expression faithfully recapitulated the endogenous lima1a expression and resulted in a complete knockout of the gene in homozygosity. Application of either Cre or Flp was able to mediate the stable inversion of the gene trap cassette and showed the ability to conditionally rescue or reintroduce the gene inactivation. Combined with pharmacologically inducible site specific recombinases the SAGFLEx vector insertions will enable precise conditional knockout studies in a spatial‐ and temporal‐controlled manner. genesis 54:19–28, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Queen–worker ratio affects reproductive skew in a socially polymorphic ant
Authors: Walter Bartosz , Heinze Jürgen
Published: November 2015

The partitioning of reproduction among individuals in communally breeding animals varies greatly among species, from the monopolization of reproduction (high reproductive skew) to similar contribution to the offspring in others (low skew). Reproductive skew models explain how relatedness or ecological constraints affect the magnitude of reproductive skew. They typically assume that individuals are capable of flexibly reacting to social and environmental changes. Most models predict a decrease of skew when benefits of staying in the group are reduced. In the antLeptothorax acervorum, queens in colonies from marginal habitats form dominance hierarchies and only the top‐ranking queen lays eggs (“functional monogyny”). In contrast, queens in colonies from extended coniferous forests throughout the Palaearctic rarely interact aggressively and all lay eggs (“polygyny”). An experimental increase of queen:worker ratios in colonies from low‐skew populations elicits queen–queen aggression similar to that in functionally monogynous populations. Here, we show that this manipulation also results in increased reproductive inequalities among queens. Queens from natural overwintering colonies differed in the number of developing oocytes in their ovaries. These differences were greatly augmented in queens from colonies with increased queen:worker ratios relative to colonies with a low queen:worker ratio. As assumed by models of reproductive skew,L. acervorumcolonies thus appear to be capable of flexibly adjusting reproductive skew to social conditions, yet in the opposite way than predicted by most models.
Oxidative stress and life histories: unresolved issues and current needs
Authors: Speakman John R. , Blount Jonathan D. , Bronikowski Anne M. , Buffenstein Rochelle , Isaksson Caroline , Kirkwood Tom B. L. , Monaghan Pat , Ozanne Susan E. , Beaulieu Michaël , Briga Michael , Carr Sarah K. , Christensen Louise L. , Cochemé Helena M. , Cram Dominic L. , Dantzer Ben , Harper Jim M. , Jurk Diana , King Annette , Noguera Jose C. , Salin Karine , Sild Elin , Simons Mirre J. P. , Smith Shona , Stier Antoine , Tobler Michael , Vitikainen Emma , Peaker Malcolm , Selman Colin
Published: November 2015

Life‐history theory concerns the trade‐offs that mold the patterns of investment by animals between reproduction, growth, and survival. It is widely recognized that physiology plays a role in the mediation of life‐history trade‐offs, but the details remain obscure. As life‐history theory concerns aspects of investment in the soma that influence survival, understanding the physiological basis of life histories is related, but not identical, to understanding the process of aging. One idea from the field of aging that has gained considerable traction in the area of life histories is that life‐history trade‐offs may be mediated by free radical production and oxidative stress. We outline here developments in this field and summarize a number of important unresolved issues that may guide future research efforts. The issues are as follows. First, different tissues and macromolecular targets of oxidative stress respond differently during reproduction. The functional significance of these changes, however, remains uncertain. Consequently there is a need for studies that link oxidative stress measurements to functional outcomes, such as survival. Second, measurements of oxidative stress are often highly invasive or terminal. Terminal studies of oxidative stress in wild animals, where detailed life‐history information is available, cannot generally be performed without compromising the aims of the studies that generated the life‐history data. There is a need therefore for novel non‐invasive measurements of multi‐tissue oxidative stress. Third, laboratory studies provide unrivaled opportunities for experimental manipulation but may fail to expose the physiology underpinning life‐history effects, because of the benign laboratory environment. Fourth, the idea that oxidative stress might underlie life‐history trade‐offs does not make specific enough predictions that are amenable to testing. Moreover, there is a paucity of good alternative theoretical models on which contrasting predictions might be based. Fifth, there is an enormous diversity of life‐history variation to test the idea that oxidative stress may be a key mediator. So far we have only scratched the surface. Broadening the scope may reveal new strategies linked to the processes of oxidative damage and repair. Finally, understanding the trade‐offs in life histories and understanding the process of aging are related but not identical questions. Scientists inhabiting these two spheres of activity seldom collide, yet they have much to learn from each other.
Negative Creeping Discharge along Aerial Insulated Wire in Wet Condition
Authors: NISHI TOSHIYUKI , HANAOKA RYOICHI , MURDIYA FRI , MIYAGI KATSUNORI
Published: November 2015

Aerial insulated wires are supported by postinsulators and binding wires on reinforced concrete poles. When a lightning flash strikes near by the wires, an overvoltage due to the indirect lightning surge is induced in the conductive wire core. A creeping discharge can develop along the wire surface from the free end of the binding wire through the postinsulator and reinforced concrete pole if flashover occurs at the postinsulator, and this also leads to wire damage such as melting or snapping. This can occur under either rainy or thunderstorm conditions. In this case, it indicates that the wire surface is stressed by lightning impulses under wet condition. Consequently, it is important to prevent wire damage and to clarify the characteristics of creeping discharges along the wire surface under dry and wet conditions. In previous investigations, we observed the characteristics of creeping discharges along wire surfaces under dry conditions. In this investigation, we examined creeping discharges under both impulse voltages with various wave front durations and wet conditions on the wire surface. These voltages were applied to the conductive wire core as inductive lightning surges. The duration and phenomena of negative creeping discharges developing along the wire surface were measured using a still camera with an image intensifier. We report the characteristics of the development of negative creeping discharges along wire surfaces under wet condition.
Convenient Synthesis of Cyclic α‐Aminophosphonates by Alkylation–Cyclization Reaction of Iminophosphoglycinates Using Phase‐Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Ramírez‐Marroquín Oscar Abelardo , Romero‐Estudillo Iván , Viveros‐Ceballos José Luis , Cativiela Carlos , Ordóñez Mario
Published: November 2015

The alkylation reaction of diethyl N‐(diphenylmethylene)aminomethylphosphonate (6) with alkyl dihalides under phase‐transfer catalysis followed by hydrolysis of the benzophenone imine moiety and subsequent cyclization provides a simple and convenient method for the synthesis of known and new cyclic α‐aminophosphonates 1–5 in moderate to good yields.
Nitropyrene Photoprobes: Making Them, and What Are They Good for?
Authors: Espinoza Eli M. , Xia Bing , Darabedian Narek , Larsen Jillian M. , Nuñez Vicente , Bao Duoduo , Mac Jenny T. , Botero Fabian , Wurch Michelle , Zhou Feimeng , Vullev Valentine I.
Published: November 2015

Pyrene derivatives are among the most widely used organic fluorescent photoprobes. Many of them are photosensitizers for hole injection. Pyrenes, however, are mostly UV absorbers, limiting their utility for photonic applications. Nitration of pyrene shifts its absorption to the visible region. Conversely, nitration of pyrene that is already derivatized for covalent labeling, produces mixtures of isomers that are challenging to separate. We present a robust procedure for attaining isomerically pure nitropyrenes. NMR analysis provides unequivocal assignments of the regioisomers and of the structures of the disubstituted nitropyrenes. The added substituents negligibly affect the electronic properties of the nitropyrenes. Photoexcited nitropyrenes undergo efficient triplet formation, making them an attractive choice for triplet sensitizers and photooxidants. Hence, facile and reliable preparation of disubstituted nitropyrenes provides venues for exploring their electronic and photonic utility.
The neuroimmune guidance cue netrin‐1 controls resolution programs and promotes liver regeneration
Authors: Schlegel Martin , Köhler David , Körner Andreas , Granja Tiago , Straub Andreas , Giera Martin , Mirakaj Valbona
Published: November 2015

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) is a major adverse reaction to liver transplantation, hemorrhagic shock, or resection. Recently, the anti‐inflammatory properties of the axonal guidance cue netrin‐1 were reported. Here, we demonstrate that netrin‐1 also impacts the resolution of inflammation and promotes hepatic repair and regeneration during liver I/R injury. In initial studies, we investigated the induction of netrin‐1 and its receptors in murine liver tissues after I/R injury. Hepatic I/R injury was performed in mice with a partial genetic netrin‐1 deficiency (Ntn1+/−) or wild‐type C57BL/6 treated with exogenous netrin‐1 to examine the endogenous and therapeutically administered impact of netrin‐1. These investigations were corroborated by studies determining the characteristics of intravascular leukocyte flow, clearance of apoptotic neutrophils (polymorphonuclear cells [PMNs]), production of specialized proresolving lipid mediators (SPMs), generation of specific growth factors contributing to the resolution of inflammation, and liver repair. Hepatic I/R was associated with a significant reduction of netrin‐1 transcript and protein in murine liver tissue. Subsequent studies in netrin‐1‐deficient mice revealed lower efficacies in reducing PMN infiltration, proinflammatory cytokine levels, and hepatic‐specific injury enzymes. Conversely, mice treated with exogenous netrin‐1 exhibited increased liver protection and repair, reducing neutrophil influx into the injury site, decreasing proinflammatory mediators, increasing efferocytosis of apoptotic PMNs, and stimulating local endogenous biosynthesis of SPMs and the generation of specific growth factors. Finally, genetic studies implicated the A2B adenosine receptor in netrin‐1‐mediated protection during hepatic I/R injury. Conclusion: The present study indicates a previously unrecognized role for netrin‐1 in liver protection and its contribution to tissue homeostasis and regeneration. (Hepatology 2016;63:1689‐1705)
Effect of delayed reinforcement on skill acquisition during discrete‐trial instruction: Implications for treatmen‐integrity errors in academic settings
Authors: Carroll Regina A. , Kodak Tiffany , Adolf Kari J.
Published: November 2015

We used an adapted alternating treatments design to compare skill acquisition during discrete‐trial instruction using immediate reinforcement, delayed reinforcement with immediate praise, and delayed reinforcement for 2 children with autism spectrum disorder. Participants acquired the skills taught with immediate reinforcement; however, delayed reinforcement decreased the efficiency and effectiveness of discrete‐trial instruction. We discuss the importance of evaluating the influence of treatment‐integrity errors on skill acquisition during discrete‐trial instruction.
Regulation of the Expression of Heparan Sulfate 3‐O‐Sulfotransferase 3B (HS3ST3B) by Inflammatory Stimuli in Human Monocytes
Authors: Sikora Anne‐Sophie , Delos Maxime , Martinez Pierre , Carpentier Mathieu , Allain Fabrice , Denys Agnès
Published: November 2015

Heparan sulfate (HS) is recognized as an important player in a wide range of dynamic steps of inflammatory reactions. Thereby, structural HS remodeling is likely to play an important role in the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses; however, little is known about underlying mechanism. In this study, we analyzed the regulation of expression of HS 3‐O‐sulfotransferases (HS3STs) in response to inflammatory stimuli. We found that among the seven HS3ST isoenzymes, only the expression of HS3ST3B was markedly up‐regulated in human primary monocytes and the related cell line THP1 after exposure to TLR agonists. TNF‐α was also efficient, to a lesser extent, to increase HS3ST3B expression, while IL‐6, IL‐4, and IFN‐γ were poor inducers. We then analyzed the molecular mechanisms that regulate the high expression of HS3ST3B in response to LPS. Based on the expression of HS3ST3B transcripts and on the response of a reporter gene containing the HS3ST3B1 promoter, we provide evidence that LPS induces a rapid and strong transcription of HS3ST3B1 gene, which was mainly dependent on the activation of NF‐κB and JNK signaling pathways. Additionally, active p38 MAPK and de novo synthesized proteins are involved in post‐transcriptional mechanisms to maintain a high level of HS3ST3B mRNA to a steady state. Altogether, our findings indicate that HS3ST3B1 gene behaves as a primary response gene, suggesting that it may play an important role in making 3‐O‐sulfated HS with specific functions in the regulation of inflammatory and immune responses. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1529–1542, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High sensitivity detection of HIV‐1 using two genomic targets compared with single target PCR
Authors: Shah Krishna , Ragupathy Viswanath , Saga Anusha , Hewlett Indira
Published: November 2015

The genetic diversity of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type‐1(HIV‐1) has been shown to affect the performance of Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type‐1. Although, majority NAT assays were designed to detect the conserved regions of HIV‐1 mutations at the primer or probe binding regions may lead to false negatives. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of detecting two genomic targets for enhanced sensitivity. A total of 180 tests using HIV‐1 VQA RNA quantitation standard, 240 tests using EQAPOL HIV‐1 viral diversity subtype panel, and 30 clinical plasma samples from Cameroon were evaluated. The analysis was based on probit and hit rate. The genomic targets LOD estimated by PROBIT for the gag target was 118 cps/ml (95%CI 64 cps/ml lower bound), Pol or POL/LTR was at 40 cps/ml (95%CI 17, 16 cps/ml), LTR 45 cps/ml (95%CI 20 cps/ml lower bound), and Gag/LTR at 67.8 cps/ml (95%CI 32 cps/ml lower bound). For HIV‐1 subtypes the overall reactivity was 55–100% when tested at 100 and 1000 cps/ml and combination of genomic targets detection increased the reactivity to 100%. The plasma samples evaluation showed LTR or pol/LTR combination yielded higher sensitivity for patients with lower viral load (<40 cps/ml). We conclude that detection of two HIV‐1 genomic targets improved sensitivity for detection of genetically diverse HIV‐1 strains. J. Med. Virol. 88:1092–1097, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Projections for the duration and degree days of the thermal growing season in Europe derived from CMIP5 model output
Authors: Ruosteenoja Kimmo , Räisänen Jouni , Venäläinen Ari , Kämäräinen Matti
Published: November 2015

Global warming leads to a prolongation and intensification of the thermal growing season. In this study, we present projections for the growing season length and growing degree day sum (GDD) in Europe by the end of the 21st century using two threshold temperatures, 5 and 10 °C. The analysis was based on simulations performed with 22–23 CMIP5 global models under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Systematic errors in the temporal mean and variability of modelled temperatures were eliminated, and the data were downscaled spatially by employing a bias‐correction method. To determine the onset, termination and GDD of the growing season, two methods have been used. The previously developed Fourier method is suited for exploring long‐term means, while the novel temperature deviation integral method is applicable to inter‐annual variations.

According to the multi‐model mean of the RCP8.5 simulations in the late 21st century, for the majority of Europe the growing season is prolonged by 1.5–2 months, the GDD above 5 °C increasing by 60–100%. Responses to RCP4.5 are qualitatively similar but smaller. A decomposition of the uncertainty variance reveals that in the near‐term future the contribution of internal variability is pronounced, but by the end of the century inter‐model differences dominate.

In studying growing‐season conditions on an annual basis, we found that in coming decades years with a GDD below the recent past (1971–2000) mean become very uncommon. In the majority of years, GDD will exceed the 10‐year or even the 20‐ or 50‐year return level derived from recent past data.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 as a potential therapeutic target in osteosarcoma
Authors: Cai Xianyi , Liu Yunlu , Yang Wen , Xia Yun , Yang Cao , Yang Shuhua , Liu Xianzhe
Published: November 2015

Recent studies have revealed that long noncoding RNA metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) plays an important role in the development of several solid tumors. However, the function of MALAT1 in the tumorigenesis of osteosarcoma remains unknown. In the present study, levels of MALAT1 in human osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The roles of MALAT1 in osteosarcoma were investigated by using in vitro and in vivo assays. We observed that MALAT1 expression was up‐regulated in human osteosarcoma cell lines and tissues. In vitro knockdown of MALAT1 by siRNA significantly inhibited cell proliferation and migration, and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells. In addition, MALAT1 knockdown markedly suppressed the formation of tubular network structures and caused breakage of stress fibers in osteosarcoma cell lines U2OS and MNNG/HOS. Furthermore, MALAT1 knockdown delayed tumor growth in an osteosarcoma xenograft model. Specifically, we found that administration of MALAT1 siRNA decreased the protein levels of RhoA and its downstream effectors Rho‐associated coiled‐coil containing protein kinases (ROCKs). Taken together, these findings suggest that MALAT1 plays an oncogenic role in osteosarcoma and may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of osteosarcoma patients. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:932–941, 2016.
‘Reductionistic’ and ‘Holistic’ Views of Resource‐Based Theory: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Rashidirad Mona , Soltani Ebrahim , Salimian Hamid
Published: November 2015

In contrast to the ‘reductionistic’ approach, a ‘holistic’ approach to resource‐based theory has the ability to address the complex interrelationships among multiple organizational characteristics, competitive strategies, and performance.