bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of production method
on selected properties of VT 22
titanium alloy
Authors: Łukaszewicz A. , Szota M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose: The paper presents the results of phycisochemical and mechanical properites of
titanium alloy VT 22. Samples - input material and after injection casting were carried out.
Design/methodology/approach: The samples were made of VT 22 titanium alloy. The
aim of the study was a comparison of corrosion resistance and surface geometry of input
material and material produced by injection method. The corrosion resistance test by using
3 electrode method were carried out. Surface geometry by profilometer were conducted.
Moreover the microhardness tests were carried out by using Vicker’s metohod. As well as
microstructure observation by using light microsope were carried out. The studies were
carried out on 2 samples – one sample from input material and sample after injection
method. There 10 samples were produced during studies.
Findings: Research has shown that the use of injection casting method affects on surface
geometry and corrosion resistance of produced samples. It has been observed that samples
produced by using injection casting in comparison to input material have lower corrosion
rate as well as higher microhardness of surface. Roughness profile is incomparable because
the input material on its surface was undulating. But roughness affects on corrosion
resistance. Moreover there differences between structures were observed.
Research limitations/implications: During the comparison of roughness profile there
were problem because input material was undulating.
Practical implications: Injection method can be used as a method for produciton
materials with the same chemical composition as commercial materials but with higher
corrosion resistance and microhardness.
Originality/value: The paper presents the possibility to improve the physicochemical
properties of produced material of VT 22 titanium alloy by using injection casting method.
Development of removable partial
dentures by using additive manufacture
and casting processes
Authors: Batalha A.E.F. , Araújo R.M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose: This work aims to present a methodology developed for dimensional analysis
of removable partial dentures, following a route with a model manufactured by additive
manufacture and a further casting process of a Co-Cr alloy part.
Design/methodology/approach: The method for designing and manufacturing
removable partial dentures (RPD) is focused on their completely virtual design. They are
manufactured with resin additive manufacturing chrome-cobalt cast alloys. A 3D image
correlation scanner was used for dimensional and geometrical tolerance analysis.
Findings: The prostheses manufactured by CAD-CAM route are more accurate than
conventional ones, but they suffer distortion during the casting process. This distortion did
not interfere with the patient's well-being or with the adaptation to the prosthesis.
Research limitations/implications: The technique presented herein paper allows
preparing better fitting prosthesis. Providing the best comfort and masticatory power.
Practical implications: Improving the precision in the manufacturing process of a
removable partial denture is very important for professional dentists and their patients.
Originality/value: The proposed technique and the work approach provide the
prosthesis preparation with shorter ambulatory time in addition to greater comfort to the
patient.
THE INFLUENCE OF HOUSING ARRANGEMENT AND INTERFERENCE ON PRELOAD AND THEORETICAL LIFETIME OF A SYSTEM OF TAPER ROLLER BEARINGS OF A HIGH SPEED SHAFT OF A WIND TURBINE GEARBOX
Authors: BASTIAN Bartosz , GAWARKIEWICZ Rafał , WASILCZUK Michał
Published: November 2017

A system of two taper roller bearings can carry loads with a high ratio of axial load to radial load. Such a system was proposed for a wind turbine gearbox following the poor durability of original bearing design with the aim of increasing durability. Because of size limits, a proposed system is composed of two different taper roller bearings. Standard manufacturers’ catalogues do not provide information on recommended preload or clearance conditions or the durability as a function of pre-load. That was the reason why durability was calculated on the basis of software provided by one of the manufacturers. The analysis presented in the paper shows the relationship between bearing fits, preload values, and the theoretical durability of the bearing.
THE INFLUENCE OF SELECTED FACTORS UPON THE VALUE
OF EXTERNAL FRICTION CONCERNING PLANT GRANULAR
MATERIALS
Authors: WÓJCIK Artur , FRACZEK Jarosław
Published: November 2017

The issues relating to the description of friction with regard to plant granular materials are fairly complicated
due to a variety of factors determining the process. Considering each factor in isolation is insufficient and
offers a limited insight into the phenomenon of friction. Therefore, the paper presents the research results
concerning the influence of three independent factors (seed moisture content, sliding velocity, load) upon
the value of friction force. The analysis showed the high statistical significance of the factors at play. The
proposed mathematical model proved well fitted (considering granular materials) to the observed outcome of
the measurements.
The Norwegian Noark Model Requirements for EDRMS in the context of open government and access to governmental information
Authors: Hagen Sataslåtten Olav
Published: November 2017

This article analyses the relationship between the Norwegian Noark Standard and the concepts of Open Government and Freedom of Information. Noark is the Norwegian model requirements for Electronic Documents and Records Management Systems (EDRMS). It was introduced in 1984, making it not only the world’s first model requirement for EDRMS, but also, through the introduction of versions from Noark 1 to the present Noark 5, internationally the model requirement with the longest continuation of implementation.
Las comunidades indígenas en Iberoamérica: desafíos para la política y la planificación lingüísticas. Introducción
Authors:   Universidad de Salamanca (España), Amorós-Negre Carla , López García-Molins Ángel ,   Universitat de Valencia (España), Zimmermann Klaus ,   Universität Bremen (Alemania)
Published: November 2017

No presenta resumen
Direct Printing for Additive Patterning of Silver Nanowires for Stretchable Sensor and Display Applications
Authors: Cai Le , Zhang Suoming , Zhang Yiheng , Li Junqiang , Miao Jinshui , Wang Qifan , Yu Zhibin , Wang Chuan
Published: November 2017

A unique direct printing method is developed to additively pattern silver nanowires (AgNWs) with length of up to ≈40 µm. Uniform and well‐defined AgNW features are printed on various substrates by optimizing a series of parameters including ink composition, printing speed, nozzle size, substrate temperature, and hydrophobicity of the substrate surface. The capability of directly printing such long AgNWs is essential for stretchable electronics applications where mechanical compliance is required as manifested by a systematic study comparing the electrical and electromechanical performance of printed AgNW features with different nanowire lengths. Such printed AgNWs are used to demonstrate biaxially stretchable conductors, ultrasensitive capacitive pressure sensor arrays, and stretchable electroluminescent displays, indicating their great potential for applications in low‐cost wearable electronics. This strategy is adaptable to other material platforms like semiconducting nanowires, which may offer a cost‐effective entry to various nanowire‐based mechanically compliant sensory and optoelectronic systems.
Direct Investigation of the Birefringent Optical Properties of Black Phosphorus with Picosecond Interferometry
Authors: Zheng Wei , Nemilentsau Andrei , Lattery Dustin , Wang Peipei , Low Tony , Zhu Jie , Wang Xiaojia
Published: November 2017

Black phosphorus (BP) is an emerging 2D semiconducting material with great potential for nanoelectronic and nanophotonic applications, especially owing to its unique anisotropic electrical and optical properties. Many theoretical studies have predicted the anisotropic optical properties of BP, but the direct experimental quantification remains challenging. The difficulties stem from the ease of BP's degradation when exposed to air in ambient conditions, and from the indirect nature of conventional approaches that are subject to large measurement uncertainties. This work reports a direct investigation of the birefringent optical constants of micrometer‐thick BP samples with picosecond (ps) interferometry, over the wavelength range from 780 to 890 nm. In this ps‐interferometry approach, an ultrathin (5 nm) platinum layer for launching acoustic waves naturally protects the BP flake from degradation. The birefringent optical constants of BP for light polarization along the two primary crystalline orientations, zigzag and armchair, are directly obtained via fitting the attenuated Brillouin scattering signals. A biexponential model is further proposed to analyze the Brillouin scattering signals for a random incident light polarization. The BP experimental results and the associated measurement sensitivity analysis demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of the ps‐interferometry approach for capturing the polarization‐dependent optical properties of birefringent materials.
Cognitive and behavioral phenotype of children with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1A
Authors: Perez Katia M. , Lee Evon B. , Kahanda Sachini , Duis Jessica , Reyes Monica , Jüppner Harald , Shoemaker Ashley H.
Published: November 2017

Pseudohypoparathyroidism 1A (PHP1A) is a rare, genetic disorder. Most patients with PHP1A have cognitive impairment but this has not been systematically studied. We hypothesized that children with PHP1A would have lower intelligent quotient (IQ) scores than controls. To evaluate cognition and behavior, we prospectively enrolled children with PHP1A, one unaffected sibling (when available) and controls matched on BMI/age/gender/race. Evaluations included cognitive and executive function testing. Parents completed questionnaires on behavior and executive function. We enrolled 16 patients with PHP1A, 8 unaffected siblings, and 15 controls. Results are presented as mean (SD). The PHP1A group had a composite IQ of 85.9 (17.2); 25% had a composite IQ < −2 SD. The PHP1A group had significantly lower IQs than matched controls (composite IQ −17.3, 95%CI −28.1 to −6.5, p < 0.01) and unaffected siblings (composite IQ −21.5, 95%CI −33.9 to −9.1, p < 0.01). Special education services were utilized for 93% of the patients with PHP1A. Deficits were observed in executive function and parents reported delayed adaptive behavior skills and increased rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In conclusion, children with PHP1A have lower intelligence quotient scores, poorer executive function, delayed adaptive behavior skills, and increased behavior problems.
Oligonephronia and Wolf‐Hirschhorn syndrome: A further observation
Authors: Gatto Antonio , Ferrara Pietro , Leoni Chiara , Onesimo Roberta , Zollino Marcella , Emma Francesco , Zampino Giuseppe
Published: November 2017

Wolf‐Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is a rare chromosomal disorder caused by a partial deletion of chromosome 4 (4p16.3p16.2). We describe a case of a male 9 years old children with WHS proteinuria and hypertension. Laboratory data showed creatinine 1.05 mg/dl, GFR 65.9 ml/min/1.73 m2, cholesterol 280 mg/dl, triglyceride 125 mg/dl with electrolytes in the normal range. Urine collection showed protein 2.72 g/L with a urine protein/creatinine ratio (UP/UCr ratio) of 4.2 and diuresis of 1,100 ml. Renal ultrasound showed reduced kidney dimensions with diffusely hyperechogenic cortex and poorly visualized pyramids. Renal biopsy showed oligonephronia with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis associated with initial tubulointerstitial sclerotic atrophy. The child began therapy with Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE‐inhibitors) to reduce proteinuria and progression of chronic kidney disease. In the literature the anomalies of number of glomeruli oligonephronia and oligomeganephronia (OMN) are described in two forms, one without any associated anomalies, sporadic, and solitary and the other with one or more anomalies. Our review of the literature shows that the pathogenesis of this anomaly is unknown but the role of chromosome 4 is very relevant. Many cases of OMN are associated with anomalies on this chromosome, in the literature cases series we observed this association in 14/48 cases (29.2%) and in 7 of these 14 cases with WHS. Our case and the review of literature demonstrate how periodic urinalysis and renal ultrasound monitoring is recommended in patients affected by WHS and the renal biopsy must be performed when there is the onset of proteinuria.
Clinical and molecular characterization of an emerging chromosome 22q13.31 microdeletion syndrome
Authors: Palumbo Pietro , Accadia Maria , Leone Maria P. , Palladino Teresa , Stallone Raffaella , Carella Massimo , Palumbo Orazio
Published: November 2017

Microdeletion of chromosome 22q13.31 is a very rare condition. Fourteen patients have been annotated in public databases but, to date, a clinical comparison has not been done and, consequently, a specific phenotype has not been delineated yet. We describe a patient showing neurodevelopmental disorders, dysmorphic features, and multiple congenital anomalies in which SNP array analysis revealed an interstitial 3.15 Mb de novo microdeletion in the 22q13.31 region encompassing 21 RefSeq genes and seven non‐coding microRNAs. To perform an accurate phenotype characterization, clinical features observed in previously reported cases of 22q13.31 microdeletions were reviewed and compared to those observed in our patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a comparison between patients carrying overlapping 22q13.31 deletions has been done. This comparison allowed us to identify a distinct spectrum of clinical manifestations suggesting that patients with a de novo interstitial microdeletion involving 22q13.31 have an emerging syndrome characterized by developmental delay/intellectual disability, speech delay/language disorders, behavioral problems, hypotonia, urogenital, and hands/feet anomalies. The microdeletion identified in our patient is the smallest reported so far and, for this reason, useful to perform a detailed genotype‐phenotype correlation. In particular, we propose the CELSR1, ATXN10, FBLN1, and UPK3A as candidate genes in the onset of the main clinical features of this contiguous gene syndrome. Thus, the patient reported here broadens our knowledge of the phenotypic consequences of 22q13.31 microdeletions facilitating genotype‐phenotype correlations. Additional cases are needed to corroborate our hypothesis and confirm genotype–phenotype correlations of this emerging syndrome.
“It's hard work, believe me!”: Active efforts to optimise housing by people who live with mental illness and access housing assistance
Authors: Honey Anne , Nugent Alexandra , Hancock Nicola , Scanlan Justin
Published: November 2017

Secure and appropriate housing is critical for the well‐being of people living with mental illness (consumers). Yet it is often difficult to achieve. Housing assistance is available, but is often difficult for consumers to access and negotiate. While the need for support is well‐recognised, little is known about the active part consumers play in finding and keeping appropriate accommodation. This paper addresses the research question: How do consumers who use housing assistance actively manage their housing situations? In‐depth interviews were conducted with 18 consumers who had used housing assistance within the past five years. These were analysed using constant comparative analysis, based on a grounded theory approach. Participants engaged in a range of activities to address six major concerns: working toward my home; following the rules to keep what I have; managing and improving my accommodation; working with housing services; living within my current situation; and finding and using supports. All participants described times when their mental health negatively affected their ability to do these activities. The findings highlight the need for housing services and mental health services to collaborate to develop policies and protocols that place reasonable demands on consumers and support their abilities to actively manage their housing situations.
Refinements of the Weyl Pure Geometrical Thick Branes From Information‐Entropic Measure
Authors: Correa Rafael Augusto Couceiro , Dantas Davi Monteiro , Moraes Pedro Henrique Ribeiro da Silva , de Souza Dutra Alvaro , de Almeida Carlos Alberto Santos
Published: November 2017

This work aims to analyse the so‐called configurational entropy in the Weyl pure geometrical thick brane model. The Weyl structure plays a prominent role in the brane thickness of this model. We find a set of parameters associated to the brane width where the configurational entropy exhibits critical points. The information‐theoretical measure sets bounds into parameter of Weyl pure geometrical brane model. In addition, we also argue that a similar approach can be useful to analyze the corrections to Newtonian and Coulombian potentials in Weyl scenarios.
Live‐Cell Protein Sulfonylation Based on Proximity‐driven N‐Sulfonyl Pyridone Chemistry
Authors: Matsuo Kazuya , Nishikawa Yuki , Masuda Marie , Hamachi Itaru
Published: November 2017

The development of bioorthogonal approaches for labeling of endogenous proteins under the multimolecular crowding conditions of live cells is highly desirable for the analysis and engineering of proteins without using genetic manipulation. N‐Sulfonyl pyridone (SP) is reported as a new reactive group for protein sulfonylation. The ligand‐directed SP chemistry was able to modify not only purified proteins in vitro, but also endogenous ones on the surface of and inside live cells selectively and rapidly, which allowed to convert endogenous proteins to FRET‐based biosensors in situ.
Synthesis and Stability of Lanthanum Superhydrides
Authors: Geballe Zachary M. , Liu Hanyu , Mishra Ajay K. , Ahart Muhtar , Somayazulu Maddury , Meng Yue , Baldini Maria , Hemley Russell J.
Published: November 2017

Recent theoretical calculations predict that megabar pressure stabilizes very hydrogen‐rich simple compounds having new clathrate‐like structures and remarkable electronic properties including room‐temperature superconductivity. X‐ray diffraction and optical studies demonstrate that superhydrides of lanthanum can be synthesized with La atoms in an fcc lattice at 170 GPa upon heating to about 1000 K. The results match the predicted cubic metallic phase of LaH10 having cages of thirty‐two hydrogen atoms surrounding each La atom. Upon decompression, the fcc‐based structure undergoes a rhombohedral distortion of the La sublattice. The superhydride phases consist of an atomic hydrogen sublattice with H−H distances of about 1.1 Å, which are close to predictions for solid atomic metallic hydrogen at these pressures. With stability below 200 GPa, the superhydride is thus the closest analogue to solid atomic metallic hydrogen yet to be synthesized and characterized.
Photoactivated N‐Acyliminoiodinanes Applied to Amination: an ortho‐Methoxymethyl Group Stabilizes Reactive Precursors
Authors: Kobayashi Yusuke , Masakado Sota , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: November 2017

N‐Acyliminoiodinanes were characterized for the first time by X‐ray structural analysis. The ortho‐methoxymethyl group and the carbonyl oxygen coordinate to the iodine atom of the iminoiodinane. Activation of the N‐acyliminoiodinane was achieved by photoirradiation at 370 nm, thereby enabling reaction with various silyl enol ethers to give α‐aminoketone derivatives in good to high yield. N‐sulfonyliminoiodinanes bearing ortho substituents were used in photoinduced amination.
Surface functionalized nanocellulose as a veritable inclusionary material in contemporary bioinspired applications: A review
Authors: Chin Kwok‐Mern , Sung Ting Sam , Ong Hui Lin , Omar Mf
Published: November 2017

The past few decades have seen extraordinary gain in interest for bio‐based products, driven by the intensifying call of the society for petrochemical material replacement and developing materials with next‐to‐no environmental impact. Cellulose, which is an abundantly available “green” material, can be derived from plant fibers and tailored for a plethora of possible uses where it can be used as a substrate or as a filler material. However, emerging technologies and product advancements necessitate the search for materials that are small, biodegradable, lightweight, and strong. Nanocellulose, which can be obtained through as mechanical and chemical production methods with tensile strength and Young's modulus of up to 0.5 and 130 GPa, respectively, proves to be the answer that they were looking for. However, the inherent hydrophilic nature of nanocellulose limited its potential widespread application. Surface modifications of nanocellulose to alter and diminish its hydrophilicity were done to address the aforementioned issues. In this article, we had reviewed on different types of surface modifications and their resulting impact on the properties of nanocellulose and their effect on polymer composites. The importance of nanocellulose in emerging applications such as biosensor, nanoremediation, papermaking, and automotive as well as the current state of the industry and the commercialization progress of nanocellulose were also discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46065.
Role of Antheraea pernyi serpin 12 in prophenoloxidase activation and immune responses
Authors: Kausar Saima , Abbas Muhammad Nadeem , Qian Cen , Zhu Baojian , Gao Jin , Sun Yu , Wang Lei , Wei Guoqing , Liu Chaoliang
Published: November 2017

Serine protease inhibitors play a key role in the immune system of invertebrates by controlling proteolytic cascades. Besides its importance, the knowledge on immune functions of serpins in most of insects is fragmentary. In the present study, we identified serpin‐12 from Antheraea pernyi encoding a predicted 402 amino acid residue protein (Apserpin‐12). We expressed the recombinant protein in Escherichia coli and the purified protein was used for the synthesis of rabbit anti‐Apserpin‐12 polyclonal antibodies and functional studies. Quantitative real‐time ploymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) analysis revealed that the knock‐down of Apserpin‐12 enhanced the prophenoloxidase (PPO) cascade stimulated by Micrococcus luteus in hemolymph, whereas addition of recombinant Apserpin‐12 protein along with same elicitor led to down‐regulate PPO activation. Following different microbial challenge (E. coli, Beauveria bassiana, M. Luteus, and nuclear polyhedrosis virus), the expression of Apserpin‐12 mRNA was induced significantly. Furthermore, the Apserpin‐12 double‐stranded RNA administration elicited the expression of antimicrobial peptides, while the treatment with recombinant protein suppressed their expression. Tissue profile of Apserpin‐12 indicated that it is expressed in all examined tissues, that is, hemolymph, malpighian tubules, midgut, silk gland, integument, and fat body with variation in their transcript levels. We concluded that Apserpin‐12 may regulate PPO activation and inhibit the production of antimicrobial peptides in A. pernyi, suggesting important role in its immune system.
Cloning and analysis of peptidoglycan recognition protein‐LC and immune deficiency from the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella
Authors: Zhan Ming‐Yue , Yang Pei‐Jin , Rao Xiang‐Jun
Published: November 2017

Peptidoglycan (PGN) exists in both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria as a component of the cell wall. PGN is an important target to be recognized by the innate immune system of animals. PGN recognition proteins (PGRP) are responsible for recognizing PGNs. In Drosophila melanogaster, PGRP‐LC and IMD (immune deficiency) are critical for activating the Imd pathway. Here, we report the cloning and analysis of PGRP‐LC and IMD (PxPGRP‐LC and PxIMD) from diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), the insect pest of cruciferous vegetables. PxPGRP‐LC gene consists of six exons encoding a polypeptide of 308 amino acid residues with a transmembrane region and a PGRP domain. PxIMD cDNA encodes a polypeptide of 251 amino acid residues with a death domain. Sequence comparisons indicate that they are characteristic of Drosophila PGRP‐LC and IMD homologs. PxPGRP‐LC and PxIMD were expressed in various tissues and developmental stages. Their mRNA levels were affected by bacterial challenges. The PGRP domain of PxPGRP‐LC lacks key residues for the amidase activity, but it can recognize two types of PGNs. Overexpression of full‐length and deletion mutants in Drosophila S2 cells induced expression of some antimicrobial peptide genes. These results indicate that PxPGRP‐LC and PxIMD may be involved in the immune signaling of P. xylostella. This study provides a foundation for further studies of the immune system of P. xylostella.
Semiconductor‐Based Photoelectrochemical Conversion of Carbon Dioxide: Stepping Towards Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Pang Hong , Masuda Takuya , Ye Jinhua
Published: November 2017

The photoelectrochemical (PEC) carbon dioxide reduction process stands out as a promising avenue for the conversion of solar energy into chemical feedstocks, among various methods available for carbon dioxide mitigation. Semiconductors derived from cheap and abundant elements are interesting candidates for catalysis. Whether employed as intrinsic semiconductors or hybridized with metallic cocatalysts, biocatalysts, and metal molecular complexes, semiconductor photocathodes exhibit good performance and low overpotential during carbon dioxide reduction. Apart from focusing on carbon dioxide reduction materials and chemistry, PEC cells towards standalone devices that use photohybrid electrodes or solar cells have also been a hot topic in recent research. An overview of the state‐of‐the‐art progress in PEC carbon dioxide reduction is presented and a deep understanding of the catalysts of carbon dioxide reduction is also given.
Stabilization of a Timoshenko Beam With Disturbance Observer‐Based Time Varying Boundary Controls
Authors: Liu Dongyi , Chen Yining , Shang Yingfeng , Xu Genqi
Published: November 2017

This paper is concerned with the boundary feedback stabilization for a Timoshenko beam with external disturbances in the boundary inputs. Based on the idea of active disturbance rejection controls, extended state observers with the time‐varying gains are designed to estimate disturbances and then a control strategy is presented by canceling the disturbances via the feedback channels. The well‐posedness of the resulting closed‐loop system is proved by the dual theory and admissibility theory, and the relationship between the stability and the disturbance is interpreted by Lyapunov's second method. At the end, the numerical experiment illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Causes of the Antarctic region record high temperature at Signy Island, 30th January 1982
Authors: King J. C. , Bannister D. , Hosking J. S. , Colwell S. R.
Published: November 2017

On 30th January 1982, the research station on Signy Island (South Orkney Islands) reported a daily maximum temperature of 19.8 °C. This is a record maximum for any station south of 60°S. We use surface observations, atmospheric reanalyses and high‐resolution atmospheric model simulations to investigate the drivers of this extreme event. At the time of the record temperature exceptionally warm air was being advected southwards towards the South Orkney Islands from the subtropical South Atlantic. This air mass cooled significantly at levels below 1 km during its long track over the cold Southern Ocean but remained relatively warm above this level. Atmospheric model simulations show that warm air from upper levels was brought down towards the surface over Signy Island in a föhn wind generated by northerly flow over Coronation Island, a mountainous island just to the north of Signy Island. Modelled temperatures over Signy Island are in good agreement with observations and thus support the hypothesis that the record temperature was caused by a combination of exceptional warm advection with conditions suitable for the generation of föhn. Since conditions conducive to föhn occur relatively frequently, föhn warming may have a significant influence on the local climate and ecology of Signy Island.
Validation of eye‐tracking measures of social attention as a potential biomarker for autism clinical trials
Authors: Murias Michael , Major Samantha , Davlantis Katherine , Franz Lauren , Harris Adrianne , Rardin Benjamin , Sabatos‐DeVito Maura , Dawson Geraldine
Published: November 2017

Social communication impairments are a core feature of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and this class of symptoms is a target for treatments for the disorder. Measures of social attention, assessed via eye‐gaze tracking (EGT), have been proposed as an early efficacy biomarker for clinical trials targeting social communication skills. EGT measures have been shown to differentiate children with ASD from typical children; however, there is less known about their relationships with social communication outcome measures that are typically used in ASD clinical trials. In the present study, an EGT task involving viewing a videotape of an actor making bids for a child's attention was evaluated in 25 children with ASD aged 24–72 months. Children's attention to the actor during the dyadic bid condition measured via EGT was found to be strongly associated with five well‐validated caregiver‐reported outcome measures that are commonly used to assess social communication in clinical trials. These results highlight the convergent validity of EGT measures of social attention in relation to caregiver‐reported clinical measures. EGT holds promise as a non‐invasive, quantitative, and objective biomarker that is associated with social communication abilities in children with ASD. Autism Res 2018, 11: 166–174. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

Eye‐gaze tracking (EGT), an automated tool that tracks eye‐gaze patterns, might help measure outcomes in clinical trials investigating interventions to treat autism spectrum disorders. In this study, an EGT task was evaluated in children with ASD, who watched a video with an actor talking directly to them. Patterns of eye‐gaze were associated with caregiver‐reported measures of social communication that are used in clinical trials. We show EGT may be a promising objective tool measuring outcomes.
Prenatal and postnatal development of the mammalian ear
Authors: Powles‐Glover Nicola , Maconochie Mark
Published: November 2017

The ear can be subdivided into three distinct parts, each with significantly distinct structural and functional differences, the outer, middle, and inner ear, the latter housing the specialized sensory hair cells that act as transducers. There are numerous manuscripts documenting the anatomical development of the inner, middle, and outer ear in humans, rodents, chick, and zebrafish, dating back to the early 20th Century, and these developmental processes of these components are further compared in a number of review articles (Anthwal & Thompson, ; Basch, Brown, Jen, & Groves, ; Sai & Ladher, ). This article presents a review of both pre‐ and postnatal development of the inner ear, discusses recent molecular genetic advances toward our understanding of hair cells responsible for the sensory functions of the inner ear. Finally, a survey of comparative ear biology is used to pull together our understanding of the species differences, similarities, and key time points of definitive organ development of the ear.
Improved safety margin for embryotoxicity in rats for the new endoperoxide artefenomel (OZ439) as compared to artesunate
Authors: Clark Robert L. , Edwards Tammye L. , Longo Monica , Kinney Joseph , Walker Don K. , Rhodes Jon , Clode Sally A. , Rückle Thomas , Wells Timothy , Andenmatten Nicole , Huber Anna Christine
Published: November 2017

Background

Combination medicines including an artemisinin are the mainstay of antimalarial therapy. Artemisinins are potent embryotoxicants in animal species due to their trioxane moiety.

Methods

As part of its development, the new synthetic trioxolane antimalarial artefenomel (OZ439) was tested in rat whole embryo culture and in rat embryo‐fetal toxicity studies with dosing throughout organogenesis or with a single dose on Gestational Day (GD) 12. The single‐dose studies included groups treated with artesunate to allow a direct comparison of the embryotoxicity of the two antimalarials and included toxicokinetics hematology and histological examination of embryos. In addition, the distribution of artefenomel‐related material in plasma was determined after the administration of 14C‐artefenomel.

Results

Artefenomel and artesunate showed similar patterns of embryotoxicity including cardiovascular defects and resorption with a steep dose‐response. They both also caused a depletion of circulating embryonic erythroblasts both in vitro and in vivo and decreases in maternal reticulocyte count. However, artefenomel was ∼250‐fold less potent than the active metabolite of artesunate (dihydroartemisinin) as an embryotoxicant in vitro. The safety margin (based on AUC) for artefenomel administered on GD 12 was approximately 100‐fold greater than that for artesunate. Also, unlike artesunate, artefenomel was not a selective developmental toxicant.

Conclusions

The lesser embryotoxicity of artefenomel is likely linked to its original design which included two blocking side groups that had been introduced to lower the reactivity with ferrous iron. Our data support the hypothesis that artefenomel's improved safety margin is linked to a lower potential for inhibiting heme biosynthesis in embryonic erythroblasts.
Role of resveratrol in regulation of cellular defense systems against oxidative stress
Authors: Truong Van‐Long , Jun Mira , Jeong Woo‐Sik
Published: November 2017

Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, is found in various kinds of fruits, plants, and their commercial products such as red wine. It has been demonstrated to exhibit a variety of health‐promoting effects including prevention and/or treatment of cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, diabetes, neurodegeneration, aging, and cancer. Cellular defensive properties of resveratrol can be explained through its ability of either directly neutralizing reactive oxygen species/reactive nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) or indirectly upregulating the expression of cellular defensive genes. As a direct antioxidant agent, resveratrol scavenges diverse ROS/RNS as well as secondary organic radicals with mechanisms of hydrogen atom transfer and sequential proton loss electron transfer, thereby protecting cellular biomolecules from oxidative damage. Resveratrol also enhances the expression of various antioxidant defensive enzymes such as heme oxygenase 1, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase as well as the induction of glutathione level responsible for maintaining the cellular redox balance. Such defenses could be achieved by regulating various signaling pathways including sirtuin 1, nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 and nuclear factor κB. This review provides current understanding and information on the role of resveratrol in cellular defense system against oxidative stress. © 2017 BioFactors, 44(1):36–49, 2018
Effect of Site‐Specific Peptide‐Tag Labeling on the Biocatalytic Properties of Thermoalkalophilic Lipase from Geobacillus thermocatenulatus
Authors: Romero Oscar , de las Rivas Blanca , Lopez‐Tejedor David , Palomo Jose M.
Published: November 2017

Tailor‐made peptides were investigated for site‐specific tag labeling of Geobacillus thermocatenulatus lipase (GTL). GTL was first genetically modified by introducing a unique cysteine on the lid site of the enzyme to produce two variants (GTLσ‐A193C and GTLσ‐S196C). Chemical modification was performed by using a small library of cysteine‐containing peptides. The synthesized peptide–lipase biocatalysts were highly stable, more active, more specific, and more selective toward different substrates than unmodified GTL. Very high enzyme thermostability of GTLσ‐A193C modified with peptides Ac‐Cys‐Phe‐Gly‐Phe‐Gly‐Phe‐CONH2 (1) and Ac‐Cys‐Phe‐Phe‐CONH2 (2) (>95 % activity after 24 h at 60 °C) was observed. The incorporation of 1 and 2 in GTLσ‐S196C improved its catalytic activity in the hydrolysis of p‐nitrophenyl butyrate by factors of three and greater than five, respectively. The specificity for short‐chain versus long‐chain esters was also strongly improved. The diacylglycerol activity of GTLσ‐S196C was enhanced more than tenfold by the incorporation of 1 and more than threefold by modification of this variant with Ac‐Cys‐(Arg)7‐CONH2 (6) in the hydrolysis of 1‐stearoyl‐2‐arachidonoyl‐sn‐glycerol. The enantioselectivity of GTLσ‐S196C increased for all formed bioconjugates, and the GTLσ‐S196C–1 conjugate was the most active and selective in the hydrolysis of dimethylphenyl glutarate at pH 7 (72 % ee), also showing an inversion in the enzyme enantiopreference.
Characterisation of a Bacterial Galactokinase with High Activity and Broad Substrate Tolerance for Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of 6‐Aminogalactose‐1‐Phosphate and Analogues
Authors: Huang Kun , Parmeggiani Fabio , Pallister Edward , Huang Chuen‐Jiuan , Liu Fang‐Fang , Li Qian , Birmingham William R. , Both Peter , Thomas Baptiste , Liu Li , Voglmeir Josef , Flitsch Sabine L.
Published: November 2017

Glycosyl phosphates are important intermediates in many metabolic pathways and are substrates for diverse carbohydrate‐active enzymes. Thus, there is a need to develop libraries of structurally similar analogues that can be used as selective chemical probes in glycomics. Here, we explore chemoenzymatic cascades for the fast generation of glycosyl phosphate libraries without protecting‐group strategies. The key enzyme is a new bacterial galactokinase (LgGalK) cloned from Leminorella grimontii, which was produced in Escherichia coli and shown to catalyse 1‐phosphorylation of galactose. LgGalK displayed a broad substrate tolerance, being able to catalyse the 1‐phosphorylation of a number of galactose analogues, including 3‐deoxy‐3‐fluorogalactose and 4‐deoxy‐4‐fluorogalactose, which were first reported to be substrates for wild‐type galactokinase. LgGalK and galactose oxidase variant M1 were combined in a one‐pot, two‐step system to synthesise 6‐oxogalactose‐1‐phosphate and 6‐oxo‐2‐fluorogalactose‐1‐phosphate, which were subsequently used to produce a panel of 30 substituted 6‐aminogalactose‐1‐phosphate derivatives by chemical reductive amination in a one‐pot, three‐step chemoenzymatic process.
The clinical utility of serum free light chain and heavy/light chain assays in monitoring disease activity in patients with IgG myeloma after achieving a deep response
Authors: Shimizu Kazuyuki , Kamiya Yoshikazu , Itoh Junji , Okada Jun , Lim Merrell , Sugiyama Satoru
Published: November 2017

Key Clinical Message

Heavy/light chain (HLC) assay will enable us to evaluate the changes in the concentrations of iHLC and uHLC separately and to better identify whether the change observed is clonal or reactive. It would therefore aid in decision making for earlier implementation or discontinuation of treatment for patients with intact immunoglobulin multiple myeloma (MM).
Functional Disilenes in Synthesis
Authors: Rammo Andreas , Scheschkewitz David
Published: November 2017

Functionalized disilenes are valuable auxiliary tools in preparative chemistry. In the following review the various synthetic potential of disilenes as precursors is presented. Upon consumption of the Si=Si unit in disilenes, cyclic, polycyclic and cluster‐like arrangements are obtainable.
ϵ‐Polylysine‐Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Carrier of the C9h Peptide to Induce Apoptosis in Cancer Cells
Authors: de la Torre Cristina , Domínguez‐Berrocal Leticia , Murguía José R. , Marcos M. Dolores , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Bravo Jerónimo , Sancenón Félix
Published: November 2017

Apoptotic signaling pathways are altered in numerous pathologies such as cancer. In this scenario, caspase‐9/PP2Acα interaction constitutes a key target with pharmacological interest to re‐establish apoptosis in tumor cells. Very recently, a short peptide (C9h) known to disrupt caspase‐9/PP2Acα interaction with subsequent apoptosis induction was described. Here, we prepared two sets of mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with safranin O (S2) or with C9h peptide (S4) and functionalized with ϵ‐polylysine as capping unit. Aqueous suspensions of both nanoparticles showed negligible cargo release whereas in the presence of pronase, a marked delivery of safranin O or C9h was observed. Confocal microscopy studies carried out with HeLa cells indicated that both materials were internalized and were able to release their entrapped cargos. Besides, a marked decrease in HeLa cell viability (ca. 50 %) was observed when treated with C9h‐loaded S4 nanoparticles. Moreover, S4 provides peptide protection from degradation additionally allowing for a dose reduction to observe an apoptotic effect when compared with C9h alone or in combination with a cell‐penetrating peptide (i.e., Mut3DPT‐C9h). Flow cytometry studies, by means of Annexin V‐FITC staining, showed the activation of apoptotic pathways in HeLa as a consequence of S4 internalization, release of C9h peptide and disruption of caspase‐9/PP2Acα interaction.
Valence Localization at a Bio‐inspired Mixed‐Valent {Cu2S}2+ Motif upon Solvation in Acetonitrile: Effect on Nitrous Oxide Reductase (N2Or) Activity
Authors: Esmieu Charlène , Orio Maylis , Mangue Jordan , Pécaut Jacques , Ménage Stéphane , Torelli Stéphane
Published: November 2017

We demonstrate, based on experimental and theoretical evidence, that the isolated [2(CH3CN)2]2+ complex prepared in CH3CN and containing a mixed‐valent {Cu2II,IS} core evolves towards a new [2(CH3CN)3]2+ species upon solvation in CH3CN. Unlike its type III structural analogue [2(H2O)(OTf)]+ active toward N2O reduction, this new type I compound is inactive. This outcome opens new perspectives for a rational for N2O activation using bio‐inspired Cu/S complexes, especially on the role of the valence localization/delocalization and the Cu−Cu bond on the reactivity.
Recent Advances in Metallaaromatic Chemistry
Authors: Frogley Benjamin J. , Wright L. James
Published: November 2017

Metallaaromatics can be broadly defined as aromatic compounds in which one of the ring atoms is a transition metal. The metallabenzenes are one important class of these compounds that has undergone extensive study recently. Closely related species such as fused‐ring metallabenzenes, heterometallabenzenes, π‐coordinated metallabenzenes and metallabenzynes have also attracted considerable attention. Although many metallaaromatics can be considered as metalla‐analogues of classic organic aromatic compounds, this is not always the case. Recent seminal studies have shown that metallapentalenes and metallapentalynes, which are metalla‐analogues of the anti‐aromatic compounds pentalene and pentalyne, are in fact aromatic and highly stable. Very unusual spiro‐metallaaromatic compounds have also recently been isolated. In this concepts article, key features of all these intriguing metallaaromatic compounds are discussed with reference to the structural, spectroscopic, reactivity and theoretical studies that have been undertaken. These compounds continue to generate much interest, not only because of the contributions they make to fundamental chemical understanding, but also because of the promise of possible practical applications.
Chemo‐ and Stereoselective Cross Rauhut–Currier‐Type Reaction of Tri‐substituted Alkenes Containing Trifluoromethyl Groups
Authors: He Xiang‐Hong , Yang Lei , Ji Yan‐Ling , Zhao Qian , Yang Ming‐Cheng , Huang Wei , Peng Cheng , Han Bo
Published: November 2017

A chemoselective cross Rauhut–Currier‐type reaction has been developed involving a tri‐substituted alkene (trifluoromethyl‐containing acrylonitrile derivative) with a di‐ or tri‐substituted alkene to yield tetra‐substituted double bonds in RC‐type products. This approach can support the synthesis of trifluoromethylated tetra‐substituted olefins and synthetically important, structurally complex 3‐allylic‐type oxindole skeletons. The asymmetric version of this RC‐type reaction can be realized by combining a Brønsted acid and Lewis base for bifunctional H‐bonding‐tertiary amine catalysis. Subsequent transformation of multi‐functionalized RC‐type product leads to pharmacologically interesting cyclohexane‐based spiro‐pyrazolones bearing six contiguous chiral centers and two highly congested, vicinal quaternary carbon centers.
A Novel Sterically Bulky Hole Transporter to Remarkably Improve the Lifetime of Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent OLEDs at High Brightness
Authors: Kamata Takahiro , Sasabe Hisahiro , Igarashi Masahiro , Kido Junji
Published: November 2017

For the practical application of organic light emitting devices (OLEDs) based on thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) for large area TV and solid state lighting, low power consumption as well as the operation lifetime at high brightness over 1000 cd m−2 must be improved. Here, we have developed a novel hexaphenylbenzene‐based sterically bulky hole‐transport layer named 4DBTHPB with deep ionization potential of 5.8 eV and high triplet energy of 2.7 eV. By using 4DBTHPB, we can realize a highly efficient and stable TADF OLED exhibiting external quantum efficiency of 21.6 % and power efficiency of 54.3 lm W−1 and operation lifetime at 50 % (LT50) of approximately 10 000 h at an initial luminance of 1000 cd m−2. These performances are comparable to those of the state‐of‐the‐art green phosphorescent OLEDs reported in the scientific literatures.
A BODIPY‐based Fluorescent Probe for Thiophenol
Authors: Zhang Dongxiang , Xu Ning , Xian Liman , Ge Haoying , Fan Jiangli , Du Jianjun , Peng Xiaojun
Published: November 2017

Thiophenol has been listed as one of the main sources of pollution. Sensitive probes for thiophenol are very significant. Herein, a BODIPY‐based fluorescent probe, named BDP, for poisonous thiophenol detection has been reported. BDP shows rapid response (15 s) and clear fluorescence enhancement (30 folds) to thiophenol in solution. The intensity of fluorescence and concentration of thiophenol have a good linear relationship. The detection limit is as low as 13.6 nmol · L−1. BDP is stable towards pH and light radiation. Cell experiments demonstrate that BDP has good cell membrane penetrability, low cell toxicity and excellent imaging properties in living cells. Therefore, BDP has significant value on the detection of thiophenol in solution and in living cell.
Synthetic Access to a Pure Polyradical Architecture: Nucleophilic Insertion of Nitronyl Nitroxide on a Cyclotriphosphazene Scaffold
Authors: Fidan Ismail , Önal Emel , Yerli Yusuf , Luneau Dominique , Ahsen Vefa , Hirel Catherine
Published: November 2017

An optimized nucleophilic synthetic approach featuring mild conditions and microwave energy was utilized to circumvent the classical Ullman procedure and access a polynitronyl nitroxide radical easily and in pure form. The simultaneous controlled introduction of preformed nitronyl nitroxide radicals on a cyclotriphosphazene core leads to a novel polyphosphazene monomer which is suitable for both n‐ and a p‐type redox‐active material in organic rechargeable batteries as demonstrated by electrochemistry. Additionally, absorption spectra and square‐wave voltammetry were utilized to quantify the number of nitronyl nitroxide radical units on the cyclotriphosphazene scaffold.