bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damaging Intermolecular Energy and Proton Transfer Processes in Alpha‐Particle‐Irradiated Hydrogen‐Bonded Systems
Authors: Xu Shenyue , Guo Dalong , Ma Xinwen , Zhu Xiaolong , Feng Wentian , Yan Shuncheng , Zhao Dongmei , Gao Yong , Zhang Shaofeng , Ren Xueguang , Zhao Yongtao , Xu Zhongfeng , Dorn Alexander , Cederbaum Lorenz S. , Kryzhevoi Nikolai V.
Published: November 2018

Although the biological hazard of alpha‐particle radiation is well‐recognized, the molecular mechanisms of biodamage are still far from being understood. Irreparable lesions in biomolecules may not only have mechanical origin but also appear due to various electronic and nuclear relaxation processes of ionized states produced by an alpha‐particle impact. Two such processes were identified in the present study by considering an acetylene dimer, a biologically relevant system possessing an intermolecular hydrogen bond. The first process is the already well‐established intermolecular Coulombic decay of inner‐valence‐ionized states. The other is a novel relaxation mechanism of dicationic states involving intermolecular proton transfer. Both processes are very fast and trigger Coulomb explosion of the dimer due to creation of charge‐separated states. These processes are general and predicted to occur also in alpha‐particle‐irradiated nucleobase pairs in DNA molecules.
pH‐Dependent Degradation of Layered Black Phosphorus: Essential Role of Hydroxide Ions
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Zhang Xuejiao , Lei Lei , Yu Xue‐Feng , Chen Jingwen , Ma Chuanxin , Wu Fengchang , Zhao Qing , Xing Baoshan
Published: November 2018

The practical application of layered black phosphorus (LBP) is compromised by fast decomposition in the presence of H2O and/or O2. The role of H2O is controversial. Herein, we propose a hydroxide ion (OH−)‐initiated degradation mechanism for LBP to elucidate the role of H2O. We found that LBP degraded faster in alkaline solutions than in neutral or acidic solutions with or without O2. Degradation rates of LBP increased linearly from pH 4 to 10. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed that OH−initiated the decomposition of LBP through breaking the P−P bond and forming a P−O bond. The detection of hypophosphite, generated from OH−reacting with P atoms, confirmed the hypothesis. Protons acted in a way distinctive from OH−, by inducing deposition/aggregation or forming a cation–π layer to protect LBP from degradation. This work reveals the degradation mechanism of LBP and thus facilitates the development of effective stabilization technologies.
One‐Step Access to Sequence‐Controlled Block Copolymers by Self‐Switchable Organocatalytic Multicomponent Polymerization
Authors: Ji He‐Yuan , Wang Bin , Pan Li , Li Yue‐Sheng
Published: November 2018

A one‐step procedure for the self‐switchable block copolymerization of monomer mixtures of epoxides, cyclic anhydrides, and lactide (LA) was developed by using simple organocatalysts without an external stimulus. This multicomponent polymerization bridges two catalytic cycles involving ring‐opening alternating copolymerization of epoxides with anhydrides and ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of LA, in which the presence/absence of anhydrides in mixed feedstocks switched the ROP of LA off/on. The self‐switchable terpolymerization showed distinct noncoordinating and living nature, as well as perfect chemoselectivity. Different combinations of epoxides, anhydrides, and initiators enabled the generation of a variety of new block polyester polyols.
Wasserstoffbrücken‐Netzwerke: molekulare Erkennung zyklischer Alkohole in enantiomerenreinen alleno‐acetylenischen Käfigrezeptoren
Authors: Gropp Cornelius , Husch Tamara , Trapp Nils , Reiher Markus , Diederich François
Published: November 2018

Enantiomerenreine (P)4‐ und (M)4‐alleno‐acetylenische Käfigrezeptoren (AAKs) bilden in ihrer geschlossenen Käfigkonformation zirkulare vierfache H‐Brückennetzwerke. Theoretische Studien zeigen eine bevorzugte Orientierung im Uhrzeigersinn (uz) der H‐bindenden Anordnung für (P)4‐konfigurierte und im Gegenuhrzeigersinn (guz) für (M)4‐konfigurierte Rezeptoren (ΔEuz−guz=−2.6 bis −3.1 kcal mol−1). Lösungsmittelstudien und Röntgenstrukturanalysen zeigen, wie das H‐Brückennetzwerk des Rezeptors bei der Komplexierung alkoholhaltiger Gäste erweitert wird. Topologien, die an isolierte Wassercluster erinnern, werden beobachtet: “zirkular‐vierfach & Docken”, pentagonal, linear‐fünffach und hexagonal‐bootförmig. Die Erweiterung des H‐Brückennetzwerks, zusammen mit optimaler Raumausfüllung und Dispersionswechselwirkungen, führt zu sehr hohen Ligandenaffinitäten (ΔG293 K=−9.0 kcal mol−1 für endo‐Tropin). Das H‐Brückennetzwerk in den Komplexen trägt ebenfalls wesentlich zur enantioselektiven Komplexierung chiraler Diole wie (R,R)‐ und (S,S)‐trans‐Cyclohexan‐1,2‐diol bei.
The Combination of Benzaldehyde and Nickel‐Catalyzed Photoredox C(sp3)−H Alkylation/Arylation
Authors: Zhang Lumin , Si Xiaojia , Yang Yangyang , Zimmer Marc , Witzel Sina , Sekine Kohei , Rudolph Matthias , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: November 2018

Herein we report a highly selective photoredox C(sp3)−H alkylation/arylation of ethers through the combination of a photo‐organocatalyst (benzaldehyde) and a transition‐metal catalyst (nickel). This method provides a simple and general strategy for the C(sp3)−H alkylation/arylation of ethers. A selective late‐stage modification of (−)‐ambroxide has also been conducted to demonstrate the applicability of the method.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of 1,4‐Dicarbonyl Compounds by Photochemical Organocatalytic Acyl Radical Addition to Enals
Authors: Goti Giulio , Bieszczad Bartosz , Vega‐Peñaloza Alberto , Melchiorre Paolo
Published: November 2018

We report a visible‐light‐mediated organocatalytic strategy for the enantioselective acyl radical conjugate addition to enals, leading to valuable 1,4‐dicarbonyl compounds. The process capitalizes upon the excited‐state reactivity of 4‐acyl‐1,4‐dihydropyridines that, upon visible‐light absorption, can trigger the generation of acyl radicals. By means of a chiral amine catalyst, iminium ion activation of enals ensures a stereoselective radical trap. We also demonstrate how the combination of this acylation process with a second catalyst‐controlled bond‐forming event allows to selectively access the full matrix of all possible stereoisomers of the resulting 2,3‐substituted 1,4‐dicarbonyl products.
A Family Support Group for Family Members of Offenders with a Mental Illness – Part 2: Treatment Protocol
Authors: Rowaert Sara , Hanssens Femke , Audenaert Kurt , Vandevelde Stijn , Lemmens Gilbert
Published: November 2018

Family members of offenders with a mental illness experience serious emotional, social, financial, and psychological burdens. They have to deal with both a rollercoaster of emotions and a double stigma for which they need support. However, until now, few family interventions have been developed in forensic settings because they face particular challenges. Therefore, a family support group (FSG) has been developed to support family members in dealing with both the mental illness and the judicial order of their relative. The present article describes the treatment protocol of an FSG which is based on a multi‐family group format that integrates systemic and narrative approaches and is adapted to the forensic context. The organisation of the FSG is explained and clinical vignettes are used to illustrate the therapeutic process. Finally, some reflections about the FSG are discussed.
RETRACTED: PIM3 Functions as Oncogenic Factor and Promotes the Tumor Growth and Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Qi Quan , Pan Yuefen , Han Shuwen , Liao Haihong , Jiang Yizhen , Shen Junjun , Zhong Liping , Wang Xian , Chen Jie
Published: November 2018

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the common human malignancies. Discovery and identification of novel therapeutic target is imperative to improve the prognosis of CRC patients. As a member of the PIM family, PIM3 has been found to be overexpressed in a variety of cancerous tumors. In this study, we evaluated the expression of PIM3 in CRC tissues and analyzed the role of PIM3 in CRC. Our results showed that PIM3 expression was significantly higher in CRC tissues compared with adjacent noncancerous tissues. The PIM3 expression level was found to be correlated with advanced disease stage and lymph node metastasis. Moreover, PIM3 was found to be able to predict poor prognosis in CRC patients as an independent factor. In vitro studies also showed that knockdown of PIM3 exhibited inhibitory effect on cell growth, promoted cell apoptosis and dampened invasive capability of HCT116 and SW620 cells. Moreover, PIM3 knockdown was able to delay tumor growth and suppress lung metastasis in xenograft model. Our results indicated that PIM3 is a potential therapeutic target for CRC. Anat Rec, 302:1552–1560, 2019. © 2018 American Association for Anatomy
Morphological Alterations and Increased Gelatinase Activity in the Superficial Digital Flexor Tendon of Chickens During Growth and Maturation
Authors: Fêo Haline Ballestero , Biancalana Adriano , Romero Nakagaki Wilson , Aparecida de Aro Andrea , Gomes Laurecir
Published: November 2018

The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) connects the superficial digital flexor muscle to the digits and its main function is to participate in digit flexion. The SDFT presents different regions along its length, which adapt to different biomechanical forces. During growth and maturation, the tendon may present changes in the regions subjected to compression and tension, with variations in the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM), in the arrangement of collagen fibers and cellularity. With the purpose of analyzing the morphological and biochemical alterations of ECM of tendons during the growth and maturation, Gallus domesticus were euthanized at 1, 5, and 8 months of age and their SDFT were divided into regions of tension/compression (Sp) and tension (Sd). From 1 month of age, the Sp region already presented fibrocartilage characteristics with cells similar to chondrocytes. At 5 and 8 months, the Sd region displayed formation of a new structure similar to bone matrix, and intense metachromasia. The animals of 5 and 8 months presented an increase in MMP‐2 and ‐9 activities and a lower number of cells when compared with the animals of 1 month, in both regions. In conclusion, structural and biochemical alterations occur during the maturation process of the SDFT, involving a decrease in the number of cells and changes in the degradation and composition of the ECM. Anat Rec, 302:964–972, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three vital RNA functions and interactions in the process of silk gland apoptosis in silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Chen Rui‐Ting , Xiao Ying , Liu Zhen , Li Lei‐Lei , Lu Yan , Jiao Peng , Miao Yun‐Gen
Published: November 2018

The Silkworm Bombyx mori is an important insect in terms of economics and a model organism with a complete metamorphosis. The economic importance of silkworms is dependent on the functions of the silkgland, a specialized organ that synthesizes silk proteins. The silk gland undergoes massive degeneration during the larval to pupal stage, which involves in cell apoptosis. In this paper, high throughput sequencing was used to detect the expression of messenger RNA (mRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and microRNA (miRNA) from silk glands of Day 3 in the fifth instar larvae (L5D3) and the spinning 36h (sp36h). We analyzed the Gene Ontology (GO) functions of target genes of the differentially expressed lncRNAs and miRNAs. We investigated the regulations of mRNA, lncRNA, and miRNA on silk gland apoptosis in L5D3 and sp36h. In total, 10,947 lncRNAs were detected in the silk gland and the index number TCONS‐00021360 lncRNA may be involved in the process of apoptosis. In addition, 344 miRNAs targeted 285 mRNAs were related to the death process under GO entry. The results indicated that miRNAs play an important role in the molecular regulation of the silk gland apoptosis compared with that of lncRNAs. Finally, we screened 746 lncRNAs and 20 miRNAs that might interact with
BmDredd, and drew an interaction network among them.
Supramolecular Chiral Helical Ribbons of Tetraphenylethylene‐Appended Naphthalenediimide Controlled by Solvent and Induced by l‐ and d‐Alanine Spacers
Authors: Goskulwad Santosh P. , Kobaisi Mohammad Al , La Duong Duc , Bhosale Rajesh S. , Ratanlal Malavath , Bhosale Sidhanath V. , Bhosale Sheshanath V.
Published: November 2018

Naphthalenediimide‐tetraphenylethylene conjugates with an alanine spacer (coded as: NDI‐(Ala‐TPE)2) were synthesized to study the influence of the chirality of the amino acid spacer on its self‐assemblies. Here we particularly show that NDI‐Ala‐TPE bearing l‐alanine gives left‐handed (M‐type) helical superstructure, while d‐alanine produces right‐handed (P‐type) helical ribbons in THF:H2O at 40:60 % v/v ratio. However, particular aggregates were observed at 20:80 % v/v ratio. Circular dichroism was used to characterise the induction of chirality and the handedness of the helical superstructures, and the microstructure of the self‐assembled materials was visualised using scanning electron microscopy while DLS analysis confirmed the formation of particular aggregates in solution.
Molecular Design, Circularly Polarized Luminescence, and Helical Self‐Assembly of Chiral Aggregation‐Induced Emission Molecules
Authors: Li Hongkun , Li Bing Shi , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: November 2018

Aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) are a new class of luminophors, which are non‐emissive in solution, but emit intensively upon aggregation. By properly designing the chemical structures of the AIEgens, their aggregation process can be tuned towards a desired direction to give diverse novel luminescent architectures of micelles, rods, and helical fibers. AIEgens represent a kind of promising building block for the fabrication of luminescent micro/nanostructures with controllable morphologies. In this review, we describe our recent work in this research area, focusing on the molecular design, circularly polarized luminescence properties, and helical self‐assembly behavior of AIEgens.
Comparative screening of recombinant antigen thermostability for improved leptospirosis vaccine design
Authors: Ptak Christopher P. , Akif Mohd. , Hsieh Ching‐Lin , Devarajan Alex , He Ping , Xu Yinghua , Oswald Robert E. , Chang Yung‐Fu
Published: November 2018

Recombinant antigens exhibit targeted protectiveproperties and offer important opportunities in the development of therapeutic technologies. Biophysical and structural methods have become important tools for the rational design and engineering of improved antigen‐based vaccines. Vaccines containing Leptospira immunoglobulin‐like (Lig) protein‐derived antigens are currently the most promising candidates for protective immunity against the globally prevalent bacterial pathogen,
Leptospira interrogans; however, vaccine trials using these domains have produced inconsistent results. Here, we compare the thermostability of domains from the main immunogenic regions from major leptospiral antigens, LigA and LigB. By measuring temperature‐dependent fluorescence decay of the hydrophobic core tryptophan, 17 individual Lig protein immunoglobulin‐like (Ig‐like) domains were shown to display a broad range of unfolding temperatures. For a majority of the domains, stability issues begin to occur at physiologically relevant temperatures. A set of chimeric Ig‐like domains was used to establish the ability of transplanted domain regions to enhance thermostability. Further insights into the determinants for domain stabilization were explored with nuclear magnetic resonance dynamics and mutational analysis. The current study has yielded a set of thermostable Ig‐like domain scaffolds for use in engineering antigen‐based vaccines and demonstrates the importance of incorporating thermostability screening as a design parameter.
Contact theory in the workplace: The case of Jewish–Arab contact in Israel
Authors: Klein Galit , Shtudiner Zeev , Kantor Jeffrey , Mollov Ben , Lavie Chaim
Published: November 2018

Contact theory is a fundamental theory in social psychology, suggesting that contact between antagonistic groups can reduce prejudice and stereotypes. The current study applies former studies in evaluating a specific case of the connection between contact and attitudes toward minorities in work contexts. A survey was conducted using 873 Israeli Jews in order to assess their attitudes toward the Arab population in Israel and Arabs' work characteristics. The results indicated that the connection between intergroup contact and attitudes is complex. On the one hand, workplace contact between Israeli Jews and Arabs was significantly correlated with the willingness to meet Arabs in and outside the workplace and to perceive Arabs in a less threatening way. However, contact during work was not significantly correlated with the participants' general attitude toward the Arab population. In addition, contact during work was not found to be significantly correlated with the participants' perceptions about Arabs' personality traits or work characteristics. The results of this study also suggest that attitudes toward Arabs' work characteristics have a strong connection to other dimensions of attitudes toward Arabs, even more than the impact of contact during work.
Occurrence of Melibiose‐Containing Glycosphingolipids in a Sample of a Sponge‐Coral Association (Desmapsamma anchorata/Carijoa riisei)
Authors: Santalova Elena A. , Denisenko Vladimir A. , Dmitrenok Pavel S. , Ha Dinh T. , Hung Nguyen A. , Drozdov Anatoly L. , Malyarenko Olesya S. , Thuy Tran T. T. , Quan Pham M. , Long Pham Q.
Published: November 2018

In our research on biologically active compounds from Vietnamese marine invertebrates, rare melibiose‐containing glycosphingolipids were found in a sample of a sponge‐coral association (Desmapsamma anchorata/Carijoa riisei). Melibiosylceramides were analyzed as constituents of some multi‐component RP‐HPLC fractions, and the structures of 14 new (1b, 3b, 4a–4c, 6a–6c, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10b, 11a, 11b) and five known (2b, 5a–5c, 7b) natural compounds were elucidated using NMR, mass spectrometry, optical rotation, and chemical transformations. These α‐d‐Galp‐(1→6)‐β‐d‐Glcp‐(1
1)‐ceramides (presumably sponge‐derived compounds) were shown to contain phytosphingosine‐type n‐t17:0 (1), (6E)‐n‐t17:1 (2), i‐t17:0 (3), n‐t18:0 (4), (6E)‐n‐t18:1 (5), i‐t18:0 (6), (6E)‐i‐t18:1 (7), i‐t19:0 (8), (6E)‐i‐t19:1 (9), ai‐t19:0 (10), and (6E)‐ai‐t19:1 (11) backbones N‐acylated with saturated straight‐chain (2R)‐2‐hydroxy C21 (a), C22 (b), and C23 (c) acids. Characteristic trends in the fragmentations of the terminal parts of tetraacetylated normal‐chain and iso‐ and anteiso‐branched sphingoid bases were observed using GC/MS. The total sum of melibiosylceramides and compound 5b caused a reduction in colony formation of human melanoma cells.
The Nature and Catalytic Function of Cation Sites in Zeolites: a Computational Perspective
Authors: Li Guanna , Pidko Evgeny A.
Published: November 2018

Zeolites have a broad spectrum of applications as robust microporous catalysts for various chemical transformations. The reactivity of zeolite catalysts can be tailored by introducing heteroatoms either into the framework or at the extraframework positions that gives rise to the formation of versatile Brønsted acid, Lewis acid and redox‐active catalytic sites. Understanding the nature and catalytic role of such sites is crucial for guiding the design of new and improved zeolite‐based catalysts. This work presents an overview of recent computational studies devoted to unravelling the molecular level details of catalytic transformations inside the zeolite pores. The role of modern computational chemistry in addressing the structural problem in zeolite catalysis, understanding reaction mechanisms and establishing structure‐activity relations is discussed. Special attention is devoted to such mechanistic phenomena as active site cooperativity, multifunctional catalysis as well as confinement‐induced and multisite reactivity commonly encountered in zeolite catalysis.
UV‐Assisted High‐Efficient Synthesis of α‐Ketoamides Using Air Promoted by a Non‐Metal Catalyst in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Li Jianhui , He Shaopo , Zhang Kuan , Quan Ziyi , Shan Qiheng , Sun Zhongliang , Wang Bo
Published: November 2018

The front cover artwork for issue 21/2018 is provided by the group of Prof. Bo Wang at the Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials of Tropical Island Resources, and State Key Lab of Marine Resource Utilizations in South China Sea, both from Hainan University (China). The image shows the formation of O3 under UV light, represented as a ray of sunlight. In water, O3 transforms into O2⋅‐, which acts as oxidant for the efficient and clean synthesis of α‐ketoamides at room temperature. See the Full Paper itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201801365.
Selective Synthesis in Microdroplets of 2‐Phenyl‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐dione from Phenyl Hydrazine with Phthalic Anhydride or Phthalic Acid
Authors: Gao Dan , Jin Feng , Yan Xin , Zare Richard N.
Published: November 2018

Pyridazine derivatives are privileged structures because of their potential biological and optical properties. Traditional synthetic methods usually require acid or base as a catalyst under reflux conditions with reaction times ranging from hours to a few days or require microwave assistance to induce the reaction. Herein, this work presents the accelerated synthesis of a pyridazine derivative, 2‐phenyl‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐dione (PDHP), in electrosprayed microdroplets containing an equimolar mixture of phenyl hydrazine and phthalic anhydride or phthalic acid. This reaction occurred on the submillisecond timescale with good yield (over 90 % with the choice of solvent) without using an external catalyst at room temperature. In sharp contrast to the bulk reaction of obtaining a mixture of two products, the reaction in confined microdroplets yields only the important six‐membered heterocyclic product PDHP. Results indicated that surface reactions in microdroplets with low pH values cause selectivity, acceleration, and high yields.
High‐Temperature Technology – Developments at the ACHEMA 2018
Authors: Hüsing Fabian , Kolb Thomas
Published: November 2018

Der Bericht gibt einen Überblick über die aktuellen Entwicklungen im Bereich der Hochtemperaturtechnik bei der ACHEMA 2018. Mit dem Ziel der Abkehr von fossilen Rohstoffen werden fünf Forschungsprojekte mit dem Fokus, Strom und Kohlenstoffdioxid als neue Ausgangsstoffe für eine flexible und dezentrale Produktion nutzbar zu machen sowie Ansätze zur effizienteren Wärmeintegration präsentiert.
Recent Advances in the Design and Development of Non‐nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Scaffolds
Authors: Shirvani Pouria , Fassihi Afshin , Saghaie Lotfollah
Published: November 2018

Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) have always been an important part of the anti‐HIV‐1 combination therapy known as combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) since 1996. The use of NNRTIs for about 22 years has led to some mutations in the residues that compose the reverse transcriptase active site, resulting in the emergence of drug‐resistant viruses. Thus, the search for new potent NNRTIs with an improved safety profile and activity against drug‐resistant HIV strains is indispensable, and many hit and lead NNRTIs have been discovered in the last decade. This review provides an overview of the development in this field from 2013 to August 2018.
Heterogeneity of treatment dropout: PTSD, depression, and alcohol use disorder reductions in PTSD and AUD/SUD treatment noncompleters
Authors: Szafranski Derek D. , Gros Daniel F. , Acierno Ron , Brady Kathleen T. , Killeen Therese K. , Back Sudie E.
Published: November 2018

Treatment dropout is often assumed to be due to worsening or lack of symptom improvement, despite minimal research examining symptom change among treatment dropouts. Thus, the present study examined symptom change in veterans who discontinued evidence‐based treatment for comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). Participants were veterans who completed at least one session of a 12‐session Concurrent Treatment of PTSD and Substance Use Disorders using Prolonged Exposure (COPE) for comorbid PTSD/AUD. The study analyses investigated the 43% of the sample (n = 22) that did not complete the full 12‐session protocol and were therefore considered treatment dropouts. Symptom changes in PTSD, AUD, and depression were examined among dropouts using two methods: (a) clinically significant change criteria and (b) good end‐state criteria. Results indicated that a significant proportion of treatment dropouts displayed clinically significant improvement and/or met good end‐state criteria for PTSD (40–59%), AUD (66%), and depression (45–68%) prior to dropping out. The results revealed that participants who displayed symptom improvement attended more treatment sessions and completed more imaginal exposures than participants who did not experience significant improvement. Together, the findings add to a growing body of literature suggesting that a large proportion of treatment dropouts may actually improve. Although preliminary, the findings challenge the notion that treatment dropout is always associated with negative outcomes.
A critical appraisal of the Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytology (MSRSGC) with histological correlation over a 3‐year period: Indian scenario
Authors: Pujani Mukta , Chauhan Varsha , Agarwal Charu , Raychaudhuri Sujata , Singh Kanika
Published: November 2018

Background

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is the first line investigation for pre‐operative diagnosis of salivary gland lesions, but due to its inherent limitations remains a challenge for the cytopathologists. The recently proposed international risk stratification scheme, the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytology (MSRSGC) aims to promote and standardise the communication between cytopathologist and clinician thereby improving patient care.

Methods

A retrospective study of all salivary gland cytology cases was performed over a 3‐year period, reviewed by pathologists and categorised into 1 of the 6 diagnostic categories according to MSRSGC, namely, non‐diagnostic, non‐neoplastic, atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), benign neoplasm, and salivary gland neoplasm of undetermined significance (SUMP), suspicious for malignancy (SFM), and malignant neoplasm. Cyto‐ histological correlation was done wherever possible. Risk of malignancy (ROM) was calculated for each diagnostic category.

Results

Out of a total of 150 salivary FNAC cases, histopathology was available for 64 cases. The sensitivity of FNAC was 81.8%, specificity was 100% while the diagnostic accuracy was 96.9%. The positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 96.4% respectively. The ROM for non‐diagnostic, non‐neoplastic, AUS, benign neoplasm, SUMP, SFM, and malignant categories were 0%, 10%, 50%, 2.5%, 50%, 100%, and 100% respectively.

Conclusion

MSRSGC fulfils the critical need for a uniform, internationally acceptable reporting system with ROM specified for each category. However, large scale multi centre studies need to be conducted before its reliability and validity is proven.
Ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of hepatic and pancreatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumors: A case series
Authors: Sangiorgio Valentina , Daniele Lorenzo , Gallo Teresa , Rocca Rodolfo , Fava Cristina , Campisi Paola , De Rosa Giovanni
Published: November 2018

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are rare mesenchymal tumors that can affect any part of the body. They can be sporadic or arise in the setting of tuberous sclerosis (TSC). In this article, we report a series of three hepatic and two pancreatic PEComas diagnosed preoperatively with ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (FNA). All patients were female (age range 28‐70), had no personal history of TSC and presented with a single, localized painless mass. Rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) of cytologic samples was performed for all cases to evaluate for cellular content and adequacy of specimens. Direct smears and cell block preparations revealed a proliferation of medium to large polygonal epithelioid cells, with abundant eosinophilic and vacuolated cytoplasm, arranged in sheets and nests. On immunohistochemistry (IHC), neoplastic cells showed co‐expression of melanocytic and smooth muscle markers and a diagnosis of PEComa was rendered. PEComas of the pancreas and liver are rare neoplasms, but should always be considered when examining “clear cell” neoplasms, especially in young female patients. If good quality cytologic samples are obtained by FNA, a correct diagnosis can be achieved with the help of IHC. This is of particular importance in order to plan adequate surgical strategy and to avoid overtreatment.
Evaluation of modeling strategies for assessing self‐thinning behavior and carrying capacity
Authors: Salas‐Eljatib Christian , Weiskittel Aaron R.
Published: November 2018

Self‐thinning and site maximum carrying capacity are key concepts for understanding and predicting ecosystem dynamics as they represent the outcome of several fundamental ecological processes (e.g., mortality and growth). Relationships are often derived using alternative modeling strategies, depending on the statistical approach, model formulation, and underlying data with unclear implications of these various assumptions. In this analysis, the influence of contrasting modeling strategies for estimating the self‐thinning relationship and maximum carrying capacity in long‐term, permanent plot data (n = 130) from the mixedNothofagusforests in southern Chile was assessed and compared. Seven contrasting modeling strategies were used including ordinary least squares, quantile, and nonlinear regression that were formulated based on static (no remeasurements) or dynamic data (with remeasurements). Statistically distinct differences among these seven approaches were identified with mean maximum carrying capacity ranging from 1,050 to 1,912 stems/ha depending on the approach. The population‐level static approach based on quantile regression produced an estimate closest to the overall mean with site‐level carrying capacity depending on tree species diversity and climate.Synthesis and applications. Overall, the findings highlight strong variability within and between contrasting methods of determining self‐thinning and site maximum carry capacity, which may influence ecological inferences.
Habitat segregation between brown bears and gray wolves in a human‐dominated landscape
Authors: Milleret Cyril , Ordiz Andrés , Chapron Guillaume , Andreassen Harry Peter , Kindberg Jonas , Månsson Johan , Tallian Aimee , Wabakken Petter , Wikenros Camilla , Zimmermann Barbara , Swenson Jon E. , Sand Håkan
Published: November 2018

Identifying how sympatric species belonging to the same guild coexist is a major question of community ecology and conservation. Habitat segregation between two species might help reduce the effects of interspecific competition and apex predators are of special interest in this context, because their interactions can have consequences for lower trophic levels. However, habitat segregation between sympatric large carnivores has seldom been studied. Based on monitoring of 53 brown bears (Ursus arctos) and seven sympatric adult gray wolves (Canis lupus) equipped with GPS collars in Sweden, we analyzed the degree of interspecific segregation in habitat selection within their home ranges in both late winter and spring, when their diets overlap the most. We used the K‐select method, a multivariate approach that relies on the concept of ecological niche, and randomization methods to quantify habitat segregation between bears and wolves. Habitat segregation between bears and wolves was greater than expected by chance. Wolves tended to select for moose occurrence, young forests, and rugged terrain more than bears, which likely reflects the different requirements of an omnivore (bear) and an obligate carnivore (wolf). However, both species generally avoided human‐related habitats during daytime. Disentangling the mechanisms that can drive interspecific interactions at different spatial scales is essential for understanding how sympatric large carnivores occur and coexist in human‐dominated landscapes, and how coexistence may affect lower trophic levels. The individual variation in habitat selection detected in our study may be a relevant mechanism to overcome intraguild competition and facilitate coexistence.
Social structure contains epidemics and regulates individual roles in disease transmission in a group‐living mammal
Authors: Rozins Carly , Silk Matthew J. , Croft Darren P. , Delahay Richard J. , Hodgson Dave J. , McDonald Robbie A. , Weber Nicola , Boots Mike
Published: November 2018

Population structure is critical to infectious disease transmission. As a result, theoretical and empirical contact network models of infectious disease spread are increasingly providing valuable insights into wildlife epidemiology. Analyzing an exceptionally detailed dataset on contact structure within a high‐density population of European badgersMeles meles,we show that a modular contact network produced by spatially structured stable social groups, lead to smaller epidemics, particularly for infections with intermediate transmissibility. The key advance is that we identify considerable variation among individuals in their role in disease spread, with these new insights made possible by the detail in the badger dataset. Furthermore, the important impacts on epidemiology are found even though the modularity of the Badger network is much lower than the threshold that previous work suggested was necessary. These findings reveal the importance of stable social group structure for disease dynamics with important management implications for socially structured populations.
Enantiopure cis‐ and trans‐2‐(2‐Aminocyclohexyl)phenols: Effective Preparation, Solid‐State Characterization, and Application in Asymmetric Organocatalysis
Authors: Tezeren Mustafa A. , Yeşil Tolga A. , Zorlu Yunus , Tilki Tahir , Ertürk Erkan
Published: November 2018

Effective synthesis of cis‐ and trans‐2‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)cyclohexylamine as well as their multigram‐scale optical resolution by diastereomeric salt formation with dibenzoyl tartaric acid have been described. Assignment of absolute configurations to the enantiomers has been made by X‐ray crystallography. Starting from the resolved precursor, diverse aminoalkylphenols (AAPs) having primary, secondary, and tertiary amine group as well as a quaternary ammonium phenol have been prepared as potential bifunctional organocatalysts based on the cyclohexane backbone. We furthermore report herein that AAPs carrying a primary amine and a phenolic hydroxyl group can catalyze the direct aldol reaction with high activity and setereoselectivity, and thus up to 97 % yield, 90:10 syn/anti diastereomeric ratio, and 80 % enantiomeric excess can be achieved.
Borrowing and Returning Oxygen Atom in Trifluoroacetic Anhydride Transfer to Nitrones: A Versatile Route for the Synthesis of N‐Trifluoroacetyl Amides
Authors: Wang Junwen , Weng Zhiqiang
Published: November 2018

A method for the synthesis of N‐trifluoroacetyl amides through trifluoroacetic anhydride transfer to nitrones by borrowing and returning oxygen atom is reported. The reaction appears to proceed via electrophilic trifluoroacetylation, followed by nucleophilic addition and elimination, and intramolecular substitution, affording N‐trifluoroacetyl amides in good to excellent yields. The present method tolerates a wide range of functional groups. Also, nitrones react with difluoroacetic anhydride providing the corresponding N‐difluoroacetyl amides. Moreover, the method described could be of interest from a biological point of view, because it constitutes a straightforward strategy for the synthesis of biologically active N‐trifluoroacetyl amide analogues.
Bimetallic Manganese Cobalt Phosphide Nanodots–Modified Graphitic Carbon Nitride for High‐Performance Hydrogen Production
Authors: Wu Jiacong , Li Chunmei , Zhang Wenli , Han Juan , Wang Lei , Wang Shuhao , Wang Yun
Published: November 2018

It is a huge challenge for exploiting new photocatalysts with low‐cost cocatalysts in place of precious metals to realize high‐efficiency H2 production from water. Herein, a new photocatalyst with a high H2 production activity is prepared via modification of bimetallic manganese cobalt phosphide (Mn0.67Co1.33P) nanodots on graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4). Moreover, the largest H2 production rate of 113.1 μmol h−1 is obtained over the Mn0.67Co1.33P/g‐C3N4‐5 sample, which is about 2.75 times than that of Pt/g‐C3N4‐5 (41.2 μmol h−1). The high‐performance H2 production suggests page a page down that the modification effect of Mn0.67Co1.33P nanodots improves the visible harvest ability and separation efficiency of charge carriers. A typical example to improve the photocatalytic H2 production performance by fabricating heterostructures using bimetallic phosphide to modify graphitic carbon nitride is provided.
Do slower movers have lower reproductive success and higher mutation load?
Authors: Walsh Carly B. , McGuigan Katrina
Published: November 2018

Deleterious mutations occur frequently in eukaryotes, resulting in individuals carrying multiple alleles that decrease their fitness. At a population level, if unchecked, accumulation of this mutation load can ultimately lead to extinction. How selection counters the accumulation of mutation load, limiting declines in population fitness, is not well understood. Here, we use manipulative experiments in zebrafish (Danio rerio) to investigate the opportunities for selection on mutation load. Inducing high mutation load through mutagenesis, we applied one generation of within-family selection on locomotor performance and characterized both the direct response to this selection and the indirect response of reproductive success. Offspring of slow swimming parents exhibited age-dependent declines in swimming speed, whereas their cousins, with faster swimming parents, did not. This pattern mimics previously documented differences between high and low mutation load populations of zebrafish, suggesting that slow swimming siblings inherited (and transmitted) more mutations than their faster swimming siblings. Crosses among offspring of slow swimming fish had, on average, <75% of the reproductive success of crosses among offspring of fast swimming parents, or crosses of offspring of slow swimmers with offspring of fast swimmers. This evidence of mutationally correlated swimming speed and reproductive success reveals the potential for concordant selection on mutation load through different fitness components. There was no evidence that crosses within families (where parents potentially shared the same mutations inherited from their common ancestor) had lower reproductive success than crosses among families, suggesting that viability selection was not acting predominantly through lethal recessive homozygotes. Rather, patterns of reproductive success are suggestive of effects of mutation number per se on embryo viability. Overall, our results highlight the potential for early life mortality to remove deleterious mutations, and the need to account for this mortality when investigating the evolutionary dynamics of mutation load.
Evolution of longevity improves immunity inDrosophila
Authors: Fabian Daniel K. , Garschall Kathrin , Klepsatel Peter , Santos-Matos Gonçalo , Sucena Élio , Kapun Martin , Lemaitre Bruno , Schlötterer Christian , Arking Robert , Flatt Thomas
Published: November 2018

Much has been learned about the genetics of aging from studies in model organisms, but still little is known about naturally occurring alleles that contribute to variation in longevity. For example, analysis of mutants and transgenes has identified insulin signaling as a major regulator of longevity, yet whether standing variation in this pathway underlies microevolutionary changes in lifespan and correlated fitness traits remains largely unclear. Here, we have analyzed the genomes of a set of Drosophila melanogaster lines that have been maintained under direct selection for postponed reproduction and indirect selection for longevity, relative to unselected control lines, for over 35 years. We identified many candidate loci shaped by selection for longevity and late-life fertility, but – contrary to expectation – we did not find overrepresentation of canonical longevity genes. Instead, we found an enrichment of immunity genes, particularly in the Toll pathway, suggesting that evolutionary changes in immune function might underpin – in part – the evolution of late-life fertility and longevity. To test whether this genomic signature is causative, we performed functional experiments. In contrast to control flies, long-lived flies tended to downregulate the expression of antimicrobial peptides upon infection with age yet survived fungal, bacterial, and viral infections significantly better, consistent with alleviated immunosenescence. To examine whether genes of the Toll pathway directly affect longevity, we employed conditional knockdown using in vivo RNAi. In adults, RNAi against the Toll receptor extended lifespan, whereas silencing the pathway antagonist cactus-–causing immune hyperactivation – dramatically shortened lifespan. Together, our results suggest that genetic changes in the age-dependent regulation of immune homeostasis might contribute to the evolution of longer life.
Inhibition of Adenosine Monophosphate–Activated Protein Kinase–3‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase Signaling Leads to Hypercholesterolemia and Promotes Hepatic Steatosis and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Loh Kim , Tam Shanna , Murray‐Segal Lisa , Huynh Kevin , Meikle Peter J. , Scott John W. , van Denderen Bryce , Chen Zhiping , Steel Rohan , LeBlond Nicholas D. , Burkovsky Leah A. , O’Dwyer Conor , Nunes Julia R.C. , Steinberg Gregory R. , Fullerton Morgan D. , Galic Sandra , Kemp Bruce E.
Published: November 2018

Adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates multiple signaling pathways involved in glucose and lipid metabolism in response to changes in hormonal and nutrient status. Cell culture studies have shown that AMPK phosphorylation and inhibition of the rate‐limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl (HMG) coenzyme A (CoA) reductase (HMGCR) at serine‐871 (Ser871; human HMGCR Ser872) suppresses cholesterol synthesis. In order to evaluate the role of AMPK‐HMGCR signaling in vivo, we generated mice with a Ser871‐alanine (Ala) knock‐in mutation (HMGCR KI). Cholesterol synthesis was significantly suppressed in wild‐type (WT) but not in HMGCR KI hepatocytes in response to AMPK activators. Liver cholesterol synthesis and cholesterol levels were significantly up‐regulated in HMGCR KI mice. When fed a high‐carbohydrate diet, HMGCR KI mice had enhanced triglyceride synthesis and liver steatosis, resulting in impaired glucose homeostasis. Conclusion: AMPK‐HMGCR signaling alone is sufficient to regulate both cholesterol and triglyceride synthesis under conditions of a high‐carbohydrate diet. Our findings highlight the tight coupling between the mevalonate and fatty acid synthesis pathways as well as revealing a role of AMPK in suppressing the deleterious effects of a high‐carbohydrate diet.
Altered function of the glutamate–aspartate transporter GLAST, a potential therapeutic target in glioblastoma
Authors: Corbetta Cristina , Di Ianni Natalia , Bruzzone Maria Grazia , Patanè Monica , Pollo Bianca , Cantini Gabriele , Cominelli Manuela , Zucca Ileana , Pisati Federica , Poliani Pietro Luigi , Finocchiaro Gaetano , Pellegatta Serena
Published: November 2018

In glioma patients, high levels of glutamate can cause brain edema and seizures. GLAST, a glutamate–aspartate transporter expressed by astrocytes with a role in glutamate uptake, is highly expressed on the plasma membrane of glioblastoma (GBM) cells, and its expression significantly correlates with shortened patient survival. Here, it was demonstrated that inhibition of GLAST expression limited the progression and invasion of GBM xenografts. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to measure glutamate in GLAST‐expressing gliomas showing that these tumors exhibit increased glutamate concentration compared to GLAST‐depleted glioma. Despite their GLAST expression, GBM stem‐like cells (GSCs) released rather than taking up glutamate due to their lack of Na+/K+‐ATPase. Overexpression of Na+/K+‐ATPase in these cells restored glutamate uptake and induced apoptosis. The therapeutic relevance of targeting GLAST in gliomas was assessed using the inhibitor UCPH‐101. In glioma‐bearing mice, a single intratumoral injection of UCPH‐101 significantly increased survival by decreasing GLAST expression and inducing apoptosis. Thus, GLAST has a novel role in GBM that appears to have crucial relevance in glutamate trafficking and may thus be a new therapeutic target.
Crosstalk of mTOR/PKM2 and STAT3/c‐Myc signaling pathways regulate the energy metabolism and acidic microenvironment of gastric cancer
Authors: Gao Sumeng , Chen Min , Wei Wei , Zhang Xiaoqi , Zhang Mingming , Yao Yuling , Lv Ying , Ling Tingsheng , Wang Lei , Zou Xiaoping
Published: November 2018

Cancer cells consume large amounts of glucose to produce lactate, even in the presence of ample oxygen. This phenomenon is called the Warburg effect. c‐Myc is an important member of the Myc gene family and is involved in the development of various tumors. It plays an important role in the regulation of tumor energy metabolism, which can regulate glycolysis to promote the Warburg effect in a tumor. Our study aimed to improve the malignant biological behavior by controlling the energy metabolism of gastric cancer through the mTOR/PKM2 and signal transduction and activator 3 (STAT3)/c‐Myc signaling pathways through a series of in vitro experiments. Human gastric cancer AGS and HGC‐27 cells were treated with PKM2 and c‐Myc lentivirus, and the effects of the knockdown of PKM2 and/or c‐Myc were analyzed on cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, the ability of cell migration, and the growth signaling pathway in vitro. The expressions of PKM2, c‐Myc, LDHA, STAT3, P‐STAT3, GLUT‐1 gene were identified by the quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Lactate and glucose levels were tested by the corresponding kit. Our findings showed that PKM2 and c‐Myc were upregulated in human gastric cancer. Knockdown of c‐Myc in gastric cancer cells suppressed cell proliferation capacity and glycolysis level, and the inhibitory effects on gastric cancer cells upon co‐knockdown of PKM2 and c‐Myc were more obvious compared with knockout of PKM2 or c‐Myc alone. And there was a correlation between the mTOR/PKM2 and the STAT3/c‐Myc signaling pathways. Our results suggested that c‐Myc might be considered a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer and PKM2 combined with c‐Myc could better inhibit the malignant biological behaviors of gastric cancer.