bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KLINIČKE MANIFESTACIJE I MEHANIZMI TOKSIČNOG DELOVANJA HEMIJSKIH SUPSTANCIJA
Authors: Ćupić Vitomir , Antonijević Biljana , Matović Vesna , Bulat Zorica , Vasilev Saša
Published: September 2018

Kada određena supstacija uđe u organizam, njeno toksično delovanje se kliničkimože manifestovati na razne načine, zavisno od vrste poremećaja prouzrokovanogna nivou ćelije. Vezivanjem za određene endogene molekule, toksična jedinjenjamogu prouzrokovati poremećaj genske ekspresije (neoplazija, teratogeneza),poremećaj tekućih ili trenutnih aktivnosti ćelije (tremor, konvulzije, spazam,aritmija), poremećaj integriteta ćelije (poremećaj sinteze proteina, poremećajfunkcije ćelijske membrane, smrt ćelije) i poremećaj odnosa sa drugim ćelijama(poremećaj u hemostazi – krvarenje).Najteži poremećaji, koji nastaju usled vezivanja hemijskih supstancija satakozvanim „kritičnim proteinima” (DNK, RNK), klinički se mogu manifestovatikao: mutageneza, karcinogeneza, teratogeneza i imunotoksičnost.
Genomics of long- and short- term adaptation in maize and teosinte
Authors: Lorant Anne , Ross-Ibarra Jeffrey , Tenaillon Maud
Published: September 2018

Maize is an excellent model for the study of plant adaptation. Indeed, post domestication maize quickly adapted to a host of new environments across the globe. And work over the last decade has begun to highlight the role of the wild relatives of maize – the teosintes Zea mays ssp. parviglumis and ssp. mexicana – as excellent models for dissecting long-term local adaptation. Although human-driven selection associated with maize domestication has been extensively studied, the genetic bases of natural variation is still poorly understood. Here we review studies on the genetic basis of adaptation and plasticity in maize and its wild relatives. We highlight a range of different processes that contribute to adaptation and discuss evidence from natural, cultivated, and experimental populations. From an applied perspective, understanding the genetic bases of adaptation and the contribution of plasticity will provide us with new tools to both better understand and mitigate the effect of climate changes on natural and cultivated populations.
Comparative analysis and characterization of the gut microbiota of four farmed snakes from southern China
Authors: Zhang Bing , Ren Jing , Yang Daode , Liu Shuoran , Gong Xinguo
Published: September 2018

Background. The gut microbiota plays an important role in host immunity and metabolichomeostasis. Although analyses of gut microbiotas have been used to assess host health,as well as for disease prevention and treatment, no comparative study of gut microbiotasamong several species of farmed snake is yet available. In this study we characterized andcompared the gut microbiotas of four species of farmed snakes (Naja atra, Ptyas mucosus,Elaphe carinata, and Deinagkistrodon acutus) using high-throughput sequencing of the16S rDNA gene in southern China and tested whether there was a relationship betweengut microbiotal composition and host species. Results. A total of 629 operationaltaxonomic units (OTUs) across 22 samples were detected. The dominant bacterial phylawere Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Fusobacteria; the dominant bacterialgenera were Bacteroides and Cetobacterium. This was the first report of the dominance ofFusobacteria and Cetobacterium in the snake gut. Our phylogenetic analysis recovered arelatively close relationship between Fusobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Alpha diversityanalysis indicated that species richness and diversity were highest in the gut microbiota ofD. acutus and lowest in that of E. carinata. Significant differences in alpha diversity weredetected among the four farmed snake species. The gut microbiotas of conspecifics weremore similar to each other than to those of heterospecifics. Conclusion. This studyprovides the first comparative study of gut microbiotas among several species of farmedsnakes, and provides valuable data for the management of farmed snakes. In farmedsnakes, host species affected the species composition and diversity of the gut microbiota.
Geomorphometry: Today and Tomorrow
Authors: Wilson John P
Published: September 2018

This paper summarizes the current state-of-the-art in geomorphometry and describes the innovations that are close at hand and will be required to push digital terrain modeling forward in the future. These innovations will draw on concepts and methods from computer science and the spatial sciences and require greater collaboration to produce “actionable” knowledge and outcomes. The key innovations include rediscovering and using what we already know, developing new digital terrain modeling methods, clarifying and strengthening the role of theory, developing high-fidelity DEMs, developing and embracing new visualization methods, adopting new computational approaches, and making better use of provenance, credibility, and application-content knowledge.
Effects of macroalgae loss in an Antarctic marine food web: applying extinction thresholds to food web studies
Authors: Cordone Georgina , Marina Tomás I. , Salinas Vanesa , Doyle Santiago R. , Saravia Leonardo A. , Momo Fernando R.
Published: September 2018

Antarctica is seriously affected by climate change, particularly at the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) where a rapid regional warming is observed. Potter Cove is a WAP fjord at Shetland Islands that constitutes a biodiversity hotspot where over the last years, Potter Cove annual air temperatures averages increased by 0.66 °C, coastal glaciers declined, and suspended particulate matter increased due to ice melting. Macroalgae are the main energy source for all consumers and detritivores of Potter Cove. Some effects of climate change favor pioneer macroalgae species that exploit new ice-free areas and can also decline rates of photosynthesis and intensify competition between species due to the increase of suspended particulate matter. In this study, we evaluated possible consequences of climate change at Potter Cove food web by simulating the extinction of macroalgae and detritus using a topological approach with thresholds of extinction. Thresholds represent the minimum number of incoming links necessary for species’ survival. When we simulated the extinctions of macroalgae species at random, a threshold of extinction beyond 50% was necessary to obtain a significant number of secondary extinctions, while with a 75% threshold a real collapse of the food web occurred. Our results indicate that Potter Cove food web is relative robust to macroalgae extinction. This is dramatically different from what has been found in other food webs, where the reduction of 10% in prey intake caused a disproportionate increase of secondary extinctions. Robustness of the Potter Cove food web was mediated by omnivory and redundancy, which had an important relevance in this food web. When we eliminated larger-biomass species more secondary extinctions occurred, a similar response was observed when more connected species were deleted, yet there was no correlation between species of larger-biomass and high-degree. This similarity could be explained because both criteria involved key species that produced an emerging effect on the food web. In this way, large-biomass and high-degree species could be acting as source for species with few trophic interactions or low redundancy. Based on this work, we expect the Potter Cove food web to be robust to changes in macroalgae species caused by climate change until a high threshold of stress is reached, and then negative effects are expected to spread through the entire food web leading to its collapse.
A close relative of the Amazon river dolphin in marine deposits: a new Iniidae from the late Miocene of Angola
Authors: Lambert Olivier , Auclair Camille , Cauxeiro Cirilo , Lopez Michel , Adnet Sylvain
Published: September 2018

Background

A few odontocetes (echolocating toothed cetaceans) have been able to independently colonize freshwater ecosystems. Although some extant species of delphinids (true dolphins) and phocoenids (porpoises) at least occasionally migrate upstream of large river systems, they have close relatives in fully marine regions. This contrasts with the three odontocete families only containing extant species with a strictly freshwater habitat (Iniidae in South America, the recently extinct Lipotidae in China, and Platanistidae in southeast Asia). Among those, the fossil record of Iniidae includes taxa from freshwater deposits of South America, partly overlapping geographically with the extant Amazon river dolphinInia geoffrensis, whereas a few marine species from the Americas were only tentatively referred to the family, leaving the transition from a marine to freshwater environment poorly understood.

Methods

Based on a partial odontocete skeleton including the cranium, discovered in late Miocene (Tortonian-Messinian) marine deposits near the estuary of the Cuanza River, Angola, we describe a new large iniid genus and species. The new taxon is compared to other extinct and extant iniids, and its phylogenetic relationships with the latter are investigated through cladistic analysis.

Results and Discussion

The new genus and speciesKwanzacetus khoisanishares a series of morphological features withInia geoffrensis, including the combination of a frontal boss with nasals being lower on the anterior wall of the vertex, the laterally directed postorbital process of the frontal, the anteroposterior thickening of the nuchal crest, and robust teeth with wrinkled enamel. As confirmed (although with a low support) with the phylogenetic analysis, this makes the new taxon the closest relative ofI. geoffrensisfound in marine deposits. The geographic provenance ofK. khoisani, on the eastern coast of South Atlantic, suggests that the transition from the marine environment to a freshwater, Amazonian habitat may have occurred on the Atlantic side of South America. This new record further increases the inioid diversity during the late Miocene, a time interval confirmed here as the heyday for this superfamily. Finally, this first description of a Neogene cetacean from inland deposits of western sub-Saharan Africa reveals the potential of this large coastal area for deciphering key steps of the evolutionary history of modern cetaceans in the South Atlantic.
The role of chaperones in iron–sulfur cluster biogenesis
Authors: Puglisi Rita , Pastore Annalisa
Published: September 2018

Iron–sulfur cluster biogenesis is a complex process mediated by numerous proteins among which two from bacteria chaperones, called HscB and HscA in bacteria. They are highly conserved up to eukaryotes and homologous to DnaJ and DnaK, respectively, but with specific differences. As compared with other chaperones, HscB and HscA have escaped attention and relatively little is known about their functions. After briefly introducing the various chaperone families, we reviewed here the current structural and functional knowledge HscA and HscB and on their role in cluster formation. We critically evaluated the literature and highlighted the weak aspects which will require more attention in the future. We sincerely hope that this study will inspire new interest on this important and interesting system.
Structure of Asp‐bound peptidase E from Salmonella enterica: Active site at dimer interface illuminates Asp recognition
Authors: Yadav Pooja , Goyal Venuka Durani , Gaur Neeraj K. , Kumar Ashwani , Gokhale Sadashiv M. , Makde Ravindra D.
Published: September 2018

Peptidase‐E, a nonclassical serine peptidase, is specific for dipeptides with an N‐terminal aspartate. This stringent substrate specificity remains largely unexplained. We report an aspartate‐bound structure of peptidase‐E at 1.83 Å resolution. In contrast to previous reports, the enzyme forms a dimer, and the active site is located at the dimer interface, well shielded from the solvent. Our findings further suggest that the stringent aspartate specificity of the enzyme is due to electrostatics and molecular complementarity in the active site. The new structural information presented herein may provide insights into the role of functionally important residues in peptidase‐E.
A kinase‐dead version of FERONIA receptor‐like kinase has dose‐dependent impacts on rosette morphology and RALF1‐mediated stomatal movements
Authors: Chakravorty David , Yu Yunqing , Assmann Sarah M.
Published: September 2018

The receptor‐like kinase FERONIA (FER) pleiotropically affects plant reproduction, development, and stress tolerance. We recently showed that the FER ligand RALF1 promotes stomatal closure and inhibits stomatal opening in a G‐protein‐dependent manner. FER responses have been designated as kinase‐dependent or kinase‐independent, based largely on fer complementation assays employing a kinase‐dead FERK565R. Our quantification of FERK565R‐GFP transcript and FERK565R‐GFP protein in fer complementation lines reveal that, even within individual complementation lines, different levels of FERK565R expression prevail. FERK565R‐GFP expression comparable to that of FER in Col‐0 plants fail to elicit complementation of either fer rosette phenotypes or RALF1‐elicited stomatal movements, whereas overexpression levels of FERK565R‐GFP result in complementation. These results suggest possible alternative interpretations of previous conclusions regarding kinase‐independent FER signaling.
Novel CSF biomarkers to discriminate FTLD and its pathological subtypes
Authors: del Campo Marta , Galimberti Daniela , Elias Naura , Boonkamp Lynn , Pijnenburg Yolande A. , van Swieten John C. , Watts Kelly , Paciotti Silvia , Beccari Tommaso , Hu William , Teunissen Charlotte E.
Published: September 2018

Objective

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is the second most prevalent dementia in young patients and is characterized by the presence of two main protein aggregates in the brain, tau (FTLD‐Tau) or TDP43 (FTLD‐TDP), which likely require distinct pharmacological therapy. However, specific diagnosis of FTLD and its subtypes remains challenging due to largely overlapping clinical phenotypes. Here, we aimed to assess the clinical performance of novel cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for discrimination of FTLD and its pathological subtypes.

Methods

YKL40, FABP4, MFG‐E8, and the activities of catalase and specific lysosomal enzymes were analyzed in patients with FTLD‐TDP (n = 30), FTLD‐Tau (n = 20), AD (n = 30), DLB (n = 29), and nondemented controls (n = 29) obtained from two different centers. Models were validated in an independent CSF cohort (n = 188).

Results

YKL40 and catalase activity were increased in FTLD‐TDP cases compared to controls. YKL40 levels were also higher in FTLD‐TDP compared to FTLD‐Tau. We identified biomarker models able to discriminate FTLD from nondemented controls (MFG‐E8, tTau, and Aβ42; 78% sensitivity and 83% specificity) and non‐FTLD dementia (YKL40, pTau, p/tTau ratio, and age; 90% sensitivity, 78% specificity), which were validated in an independent cohort. In addition, we identified a biomarker model differentiating FTLD‐TDP from FTLD‐Tau (YKL40, MFGE‐8, βHexA together with βHexA/tHex and p/tTau ratios and age) with 80% sensitivity and 82% specificity.

Interpretation

This study identifies CSF protein signatures distinguishing FTLD and the two main pathological subtypes with optimal accuracy (specificity/sensitivity > 80%). Validation of these models may allow appropriate selection of cases for clinical trials targeting the accumulation of Tau or TDP43, thereby increasing their efficiency and facilitating the development of successful therapies.
Deformation Mechanism of L12‐γ′ Phase in Bimodal γ″‐γ′ Precipitation Hardened Inconel 718 Superalloy
Authors: Zhang Hongjun , Li Chong , Guo Qianying , Li Huijun , Liu Yongchang
Published: September 2018

Deformation mechanism of L12‐γ′ phase in bimodal γ″‐γ′ precipitation hardened Inconel 718 alloy is characterized through high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) observations. The spherical γ′ particle exhibits morphological transition toward ellipsoid along the <110> direction and shows deformation anisotropy leading to orientation‐dependent lattice misfitting status with γ‐matrix. The deformation process of γ′ phase is determined to be of APB (anti‐phase boundary)‐type shearing induced by gliding of paired {100}a/2<10> superpartial dislocations, thus γ′ phase plays a APB‐strengthening role in Inconel 718 alloy.
Silver‐Catalyzed One‐Pot Three‐Component Selective Synthesis of β‐Hydroxy Selenides
Authors: Leng Tao , Wu Ge , Zhou Yun‐Bing , Gao Wenxia , Ding Jinchang , Huang Xiaobo , Liu Miaochang , Wu Huayue
Published: September 2018

A convenient, multi‐component reaction of organoboronic acids, selenium powder and epoxides has been developed, providing an efficient protocol for the synthesis of β‐hydroxy selenides with excellent selectivity and good functional group tolerance. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that the reaction proceeds through the silver‐catalyzed radical selenation of the arylboronic acids to generate a diselenide, and subsequent selenium‐mediated selective ring‐opening arylselenation of epoxides.

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Lewis Acid‐Catalyzed Annulation of Propargylic Alcohols with (Z)‐2‐Styryl‐1H‐Indoles
Authors: Li Xue‐Song , Han Ya‐Ping , Zhu Xin‐Yu , Xia Yu , Wei Wan‐Xu , Li Ming , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: September 2018

A novel copper(II) trifluoromethanesulfonate‐catalyzed intermolecular cascade annulation strategy for the construction of a great variety of pentacyclic compounds possessing valuable carbazole fragments was developed employing propargylic alcohols and (Z)‐2‐styryl‐1H‐indoles as the initial substrates. This protocol, which entails a sequential Meyer‐Schuster rearrangement/isomerization/‐cyclization cascade, enables facile and atom‐economical access to various pentacyclic compounds with broad functional‐group tolerance in good yields under mild conditions. The conversion could be efficiently scaled up to gram quantities, accentuating a potential application of this work.

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Visible‐Light‐Mediated Chlorosulfonylative Cyclizations of 1,6‐Enynes
Authors: Hou Hong , Li Hengxue , Xu Yue , Song Chuanqi , Wang Chunling , Shi Yaocheng , Han Ying , Yan Chaoguo , Zhu Shaoqun
Published: September 2018

Described herein is a visible‐light‐mediated atom‐transfer radical cyclization (ATRC) using 1,6‐enynes as substrates. The sulfonyl chlorides not only served as sulfonyl radical sources but also provided a chlorine atom to enable the formation of highly functionalized cyclic products. This visible‐light‐mediated photocatalytic method is a mild and practical strategy for synthesizing chloroalkyl‐substituted cyclic alkenyl sulfones.

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Diffusion in Ni–Zr Melts: Insights from Statistical Mechanics and Atomistic Modeling
Authors: Kromik Andreas , Levchenko Elena V. , Massobrio Carlo , Evteev Alexander V.
Published: September 2018

An accurate database of diffusion properties of Ni–Zr melts is generated within the framework of the molecular‐dynamics method in conjunction with a semi‐empirical many‐body interatomic potential. The reliability of the model description of Ni–Zr melts is confirmed via comparison of the simulation results with the existing experimental data on diffusion properties of Ni–Zr melts. A statistical mechanical formalism is employed to understand the behavior of the cross‐correlation between the interdiffusion flux and the force caused by the difference in the average random accelerations of atoms of different species in the short time limit . This theoretical description is exploited to analyze the simulation data on the diffusion properties of Ni–Zr melts. On this basis, it is found that in the composition range both single‐particle and collective diffusion dynamics slow down homogeneously upon undercooling of Ni–Zr melts. Furthermore, it is inferred that such homogeneous dynamical slowdown is related to the enhanced stability of undercooled melt against crystallization. As a consequence, Ni–Zr alloys within this composition range are identified as viable glass formers.
Genomic detection of a familial 382 Kb 6q27 deletion in a fetus with isolated severe ventriculomegaly and her affected mother
Authors: Thakur Mili , Bronshtein Elena , Hankerd Michael , Adekola Henry , Puder Karoline , Gonik Bernard , Ebrahim Salah
Published: September 2018

Terminal deletions of the chromosome 6q27 region are rare genomic abnormalities, linked to specific brain malformations and other neurological phenotypes. Reported cases have variable sized genomic deletions that harbor several genes including the DLL1 and TBP. We report on an inherited 0.38 Mb terminal deletion of chromosome 6q27 in a 22‐week fetus with isolated bilateral ventriculomegaly and her affected mother using microarray‐based comparative genomic hybridization and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). The deleted region harbors at least seven genes including DLL1 and TBP. The affected mother had a history of hydrocephalus, developmental delay, and seizures commonly associated with DLL1 and TBP 6q27 deletions. This deletion is one of the smallest reported isolated 6q27 terminal deletions. Our data provides additional evidence that haploinsufficiency of the DLL1 and TBP genes may be sufficient to cause the ventriculomegaly, seizures, and developmental delays associated with terminal 6q27 deletions, indicating a plausible role in the abnormal development of the central nervous system.
Geleophysic dysplasia: 48 year clinical update with emphasis on cardiac care
Authors: Legare Janet M. , Modaff Peggy , Strom Samuel P. , Pauli Richard M. , Bartlett Heather L.
Published: September 2018

Geleophysic dysplasia is a rare skeletal dysplasia often complicated by progressive cardiac disease. Information about long‐term outcomes is limited. A clinical update of the oldest surviving patient described with geleophysic dysplasia type 1 is provided. Special note is made in relation to the cardiac disease and interventions. Genetic testing of ADAMTSL2 revealed a previously reported missense mutation as well as a novel nonsense mutation, which can be added to the list of causative mutations in geleophysic dysplasia.
LAMP2 exon‐copy number variations in Danon disease heterozygote female probands: Infrequent or underdetected?
Authors: Majer Filip , Piherova Lenka , Reboun Martin , Stara Veronika , Pelak Ondrej , Norambuena Patricia , Stranecky Viktor , Krebsova Alice , Vlaskova Hana , Dvorakova Lenka , Kmoch Stanislav , Kalina Tomas , Kubanek Milos , Sikora Jakub
Published: September 2018

Danon disease (DD) is an X‐linked disorder caused by mutations in the lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) gene (Xq24). DD is characterized by cognitive deficit, myopathy, and cardiomyopathy in male patients. The phenotype is variable and mitigated in females. The timely identification of de‐novo LAMP2 mutated family members, many of whom are heterozygous females, remains critical for their treatment and family counseling. DD laboratory testing builds on minimally invasive quantification of the LAMP2 protein in white blood cells and characterization of the specific mutation. This integrative approach is particularly helpful when assessing suspect female heterozygotes. LAMP2 exon‐copy number variations (eCNVs) were so far reported only in X‐hemizygous male DD probands. In heterozygous female DD probands, the wild‐type allele may hamper the identification of an eCNV even if it results in the complete abolition of LAMP2 transcription and/or translation. To document the likely underappreciated rate of occurrence and point out numerous potential pitfalls of detection of the LAMP2 eCNVs, we present the first two DD heterozygote female probands who harbor novel multi‐exon LAMP2 deletions. Critical for counseling and recurrence prediction, we also highlight the need to search for somatic‐germinal mosaicism in DD families.
A novel ASPH variant extends the phenotype of Shawaf‐Traboulsi syndrome
Authors: Abarca Barriga Hugo H. , Caballero Nathaly , Trubnykova Milana , Castro‐Mujica María del Carmen , La Serna‐Infantes Jorge E. , Vásquez Flor , Hennekam Raoul C.
Published: September 2018

Shawaf‐Traboulsi syndrome (or Traboulsi syndrome; MIM 601552) is an infrequently reported entity characterized by a typical face (long face, large nose, convex nasal ridge, underdeveloped malae, crowded teeth, retrognathia), skeletal signs (long and slender fingers, sometimes pectus deformation and hypermobile joints), and ectopia lentis with conjunctival blebs, shallow anterior chamber and iridocorneal adhesions. The entity is caused by homozygous variants in ASPH. Here, we report on a boy with the clinical diagnosis of Shawaf‐Traboulsi syndrome, in whom exome sequencing allowed identification of a novel variant in ASPH. We compare the findings in the present patient to those of earlier reported patients; furthermore add new signs for this entity.
Room‐Temperature Liquid Na–K Anode Membranes
Authors: Xue Leigang , Zhou Weidong , Xin Sen , Gao Hongcai , Li Yutao , Zhou Aijun , Goodenough John B.
Published: September 2018

The Na–K alloy is a liquid at 25 °C over a large compositional range. The liquid alloy is also immiscible in the organic‐liquid electrolytes of an alkali‐ion rechargeable battery, providing dendrite‐free liquid alkali‐metal batteries with a liquid–liquid anode‐electrolyte interface at room temperature. The two liquids are each immobilized in a porous matrix. In previous work, the porous matrix used to immobilize the alloy was a carbon paper that is wet by the alloy at 420 °C; the alloy remains in the paper at room temperature. Here we report a room‐temperature vacuum infiltration of the alloy into a porous Cu or Al membrane and a reversible stripping/plating of the liquid alloy with the immobilized organic‐liquid electrolyte; no self‐diacharge is observed since the liquid Na–K does not dissolve into the liquid carbonate electrolytes. The preparation and stripping/plating of the liquid alkali‐metal anode can both now be done safely at room temperature.
A novel nacre matrix protein hic24 inHyriopsis cumingiiis essential for calcium carbonate nucleation and involved in pearl formation
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Liu Zhenming , Jin Can , Li Haoran , Li Jia‐Le
Published: September 2018

Matrix proteins play important roles in molluscan shell biomineralization, which helps in the understanding of mechanisms associated with pearl formation. In this study, we characterized the gene encoding a novel shell‐matrix protein,hic24, inHyriopsis cumingiiand investigated its structure and function. The full cDNA sequence ofhic24is 756 bp, with an open reading frame of 654 bp encoding 217 amino acids, including a signal peptide of 18 amino acids. Sequence analysis revealed that the protein is ∼23.5 kDa, and that Gly accounted for 11.5% of the total amino acid content. Secondary structure prediction indicated a structure comprised predominantly by β‐folds. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction andin situhybridization indicated thathic24is expressed in the dorsal epithelial cells of the mantle, indicating hic24 as a nacreous‐layer matrix protein. Additionally,hic24expression patterns during pearl biomineralization showed that hic24 regulates the growth of the later nacreous layer. After attenuating hic24 expression by RNA interference in the mantle, we observed that hic24 plays a role in biomineralization of the shell nacre by inhibiting calcium carbonate nucleation.
Reliability based optimization of fiber reinforced elastomeric bearings
Authors: Ruano Pablo Castillo , Apostolidi Eftychia , Strauss Alfred
Published: September 2018

Seismic isolation achieved by placing a flexible layer between the structure to protect and the foundation has proven to reduce the seismic demand. Recently fiber reinforced elastomeric bearings (FREBs) consisting of alternating layers of elastomeric material and carbon or fiber glass fabric have awakened interest as a replacement for the conventional steel reinforced elastomeric bearings (SREBs). FREBs bring advantages as a reduction of production and transport costs, while maintaining a high bearing capacity. In the current work, an automated workflow for optimizing both the costs and bearing capacity is presented. The methodology includes using design of experiments techniques to reduce computation cost, building metamodels based on the generated data, optimizing the multi‐objective problem, validating the optimal model and finally using reliability based design optimization to find the optimal solution under uncertainty. Design variables and constraints, as well as a composite objective function that minimizes the production and transport costs and maximizes the vertical stiffness have been defined. The presented method can serve as basis for the extension of the problem to assess the horizontal performance of FREBs.
Effect of radiotherapy for rectal cancer on ovarian androgen production
Authors: Segelman J , Buchli C , Svanström Röjvall A , Matthiessen P , Arver S , Bottai M , Ahlberg M , Jasuja R , Flöter-Rådestad A , Martling A
Published: September 2018

Background

The impact of radiotherapy (RT) for rectal cancer on ovarian androgen production is unknown. The aim was to examine the effect of RT for rectal cancer on androgen levels in non-oophorectomized women and the association with female sexual desire.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included women who had surgery for rectal cancer with or without RT. Serum testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) levels were assessed at baseline, after RT and 1 year after surgery. Sexual desire was assessed by means of the Female Sexual Function Index.

Results

Twenty-seven participants had surgery alone (RT– group) and 98 had preoperative RT and surgery (RT+ group). During the first year after surgery, median serum testosterone and free testosterone levels decreased from 0·6 (range 0·1–3·6) to 0·5 (0·1–2·3) nmol/l (P < 0·001) and from 9·1 (1·6–45·8) to 7·9 (1·4–22·7) pmol/l (P < 0·001) respectively in the RT+ group, but did not change in the RT– group. Longitudinal regression analysis confirmed a decrease in testosterone and free testosterone after RT. The adjusted change in androstenedione and DHEA-S was not significant in any group. The mean change in testosterone (odds ratio (OR) 2·74, 95 per cent c.i. 1·06 to 7·11; P = 0·038), free testosterone (OR 1·08, 1·02 to 1·15; P = 0·011), androstenedione (OR 1·52, 1·07 to 2·16; P = 0·019) and DHEA-S (OR 0·49, 0·27 to 0·89; P = 0·019) was related to change in sexual desire.

Conclusion

RT decreased levels of androgens predominantly derived from the ovaries, whereas androgens of mainly adrenal origin remained unchanged. Reduction in ovarian androgens may be associated with reduced sexual desire.
GC–MS analysis of terpenes from Sicilian Pistacia vera L. oleoresin. A source of biologically active compounds
Authors: Napoli Edoardo , Gentile Davide , Ruberto Giuseppe
Published: September 2018

The genus Pistacia includes different species diffused worldwide able to produce oleoresins used in several folk medicines. Oleoresins are phytocomplexes exudate from the trunk of plants and possess several biological properties thanks to the simultaneous presence of essential oils, di‐ and triterpenes and phenols. Pistacia vera L. oleoresin chemical composition is not well known owing a lack of studies compared with other Pistacia species. The aim of this work was to report the terpenes profile of this phytocomplex collected in Sicily (Italy) by means of GC–FID and GC–MS analysis of its essential oil and less volatile fractions. Results show that this profile is peculiar and different from the other Pistacia species mainly in terms of relative percentages of its components. α‐Pinene is the main compound of the essential oil, while dammarane and tirucallene derivatives are the main triterpenes identified in the less volatile fractions. This work represents the first complete terpenoidic chemical profile of the oleoresin of P. vera L. and should be considered as a first step for a deeper evaluation of biological properties and future application of this phytocomplex.
New Insight Regarding the Zygomaticus Minor as Related to Cosmetic Facial Injections
Authors: Hur Mi‐Sun , Youn Kwan Hyun , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: September 2018

The present study aimed to determine the arrangement and terminal attachments of the zygomaticus minor (Zmi) muscle fibers connecting the orbital and mouth regions. The Zmi was examined in 32 specimens of embalmed Korean adult cadavers. The Zmi was present in all 32 specimens (100%). In 31 of the specimens (96.9%), the Zmi that inserted into the upper lip was formed by muscle fibers that arose from the zygomatic bone and muscle fibers that extended from the orbicularis oculi (OOc) muscle. In 14 of the specimens (43.8%), some fibers of the Zmi that arose from the zygomatic bone blended with the inferior margin of the OOc, while the other fibers inserted into the upper lip. After the Zmi fibers blended with the inferior margin of the OOc, these fibers constituted the inferior and medial margins of the OOc. These fibers were then attached to the medial palpebral ligament, the maxilla, the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle, and the depressor supercilii muscle. In 30 of 32 specimens (93.8%), muscle fibers that extended from the OOc constituted the lateral margin of the Zmi, usually descending to the level between the nasal ala and the vermilion border of the upper lip and inserting into the upper lip. The obtained data will be helpful for understanding their connected movements and in kinematics and electromyographic analyses, therapies involving injections of botulinum toxin Type A, and various types of facial surgery. Clin. Anat. 31:974–980, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tap into your greatest resources by learning to manage them better
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2018

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As a college athletics administrator, your greatest resources sit right in front of you every day. But do you manage those resources in ways that allow your department to reap the full benefits?
Novel Podophyllotoxin Derivatives as Potential Tubulin Inhibitors: Design, Synthesis, and Antiproliferative Activity Evaluation
Authors: Han Hong‐Wei , Lin Hong‐Yan , He De‐Liu , Ren Yao , Sun Wen‐Xue , Liang Li , Du Mei‐Hang , Li Deng‐Chao , Chu Yi‐Chun , Yang Min‐Kai , Wang Xiao‐Ming , Yang Yong‐Hua
Published: September 2018

A number of podophyllotoxin derivatives (3A–3J) had been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated in this study. Moreover, the antiproliferation activities of these compounds against four human cancer cell lines (HepG2, HeLa, A549, and MCF‐7) were also tested. The results indicated that the most promising compound 3D displayed potent inhibitory activity over the four human cancer cell lines and was further demonstrated to have potent tubulin polymerization inhibitory effects without damaging the non‐cancer cells. Additionally, 3D was verified to effectively interfere with tubulin and could prevent the mitosis of cancer cells, leading to cell cycle arrest and eventually inducing apoptosis in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Moreover, the Western blotting and siRNA results showed that Bcl‐2 was downregulated in HepG2 cells treated with 3D. Finally, the molecular docking simulation results revealed that 3D could fit well in the colchicine‐binding pocket. Taken together, this study has provided certain novel antitubulin agents for possible cancer chemotherapy.
Biological Evaluation of a New Lignan from the Roots of Rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Lee Tae Kyoung , Lee Dahae , Yu Jae Sik , Jo Mun Seok , Baek Su Cheol , Shin Myoung‐Sook , Ko Yoon‐Joo , Kang Ki Sung , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: September 2018

LC/MS‐based phytochemical analysis of an EtOH extract of the roots of rice (Oryza sativa; Gramineae), which takes a crucial role in the stable crop population in Asia, resulted in the isolation of a new lignan, oryzativol C (1), as a minor component. The chemical structure of compound 1 was unambiguously confirmed using spectroscopic evidence (including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR data), HR‐ESI‐MS, and CD data analysis. Considering the traditional medicinal efficacy of O. sativa and its importance as a food crop, compound 1 was evaluated for effects on breast cancer cell lines (MDA‐MB‐231) and on glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion in an INS‐1 pancreatic β‐cell line. Compound 1 showed mild cytotoxicity toward the MDA‐MB‐231. Furthermore, compound 1 stimulated insulin secretion in INS‐1 pancreatic β‐cells without inducing cytotoxicity. These results indicate that compound 1 is an active ingredient of O. sativa that offers health benefits including inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation and hyperglycemia control.
Ultra‐acceleration of Photochemical Cytosine Deamination by Using a 5′‐Phosphate‐Substituted Oligodeoxyribonucleotide Probe Containing a 3‐Cyanovinylcarbazole Nucleotide at Its 5′‐End
Authors: Sethi Siddhant , Honda Nozomi , Wan Licheng , Nakamura Shigetaka , Fujimoto Kenzo
Published: September 2018

Genes are the blueprints for the architectures of living organisms, providing the backbone of the information required for formation of proteins. Changes in genes lead to disorders, and these disorders could be rectified by reversing the mutations that caused them. Photochemical methods currently in use for site‐directed mutagenesis employ the photoactive 3‐cyanovinylcarbazole (CNVK) nucleotide incorporated in the oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN) backbone. The major drawback of this method, the requirement for high temperature, has been addressed, and deamination has previously been achieved at 37 °C but with low efficiency. Here, efficient deamination has been accomplished under physiological conditions by using a short complementary photoactive ODN with a 5′‐phosphate group in the −1 position with respect to the target cytosine. It is hypothesized that the free phosphate group affects the microenvironment around the target cytosine by activating the incoming nucleophile through hydrogen bonding with the water molecule, thus facilitating nucleophilic attack on the cytosine C‐4 carbon. The degree of deamination observed in this technique is high and the effect of the phosphate group is to accelerate the deamination reaction.
Mechanistic Probes for the Epimerization Domain of Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetases
Authors: Kim Woojoo E. , Patel Ashay , Hur Gene H. , Tufar Peter , Wuo Michael G. , McCammon J. Andrew , Burkart Michael D.
Published: September 2018

Nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs) are responsible for the synthesis of a variety of bioactive natural products with clinical and economic significance. Interestingly, these large multimodular enzyme machineries incorporate nonproteinogenic d‐amino acids through the use of auxiliary epimerization domains, converting l‐amino acids into d‐amino acids that impart into the resulting natural products unique bioactivity and resistance to proteases. Due to the large and complex nature of NRPSs, several questions remain unanswered about the mechanism of the catalytic domain reactions. We have investigated the use of mechanism‐based crosslinkers to probe the mechanism of an epimerization domain in gramicidin S biosynthesis. In addition, MD simulations were performed, showcasing the possible roles of catalytic residues within the epimerization domain.
Variability in radiation dose and image quality: A comparison across fluoroscopy‐system vendors, generations of equipment and institutions
Authors: Hill Kevin D. , Mann Steve D. , Carboni Michael P. , Doyle Thomas P. , Idriss Salim F. , Janssen Dana F. , Nicholson George T. , Sathanandam Shyam , Fleming Greg A.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To evaluate differences in radiation dose and image quality across institutions, fluoroscope vendors and generations of fluoroscopes for pediatric cardiac catheterization.

Background

Increased recognition of the potentially harmful effects of ionizing radiation has spurred technological advances in fluoroscopes, as well as increased focus on optimizing fluoroscope performance. There is currently little understanding of variability in the dose–image quality relationship across institutions, fluoroscope vendor and/or generation of equipment.

Methods

We evaluated latest generation fluoroscopes from Phillips, Siemens, GE, and Toshiba, and an older generation Phillips fluoroscope (release date 2003) at three different institutions. Radiation dose was measured using an anthropomorphic dose‐assessment phantom with effective dose in mSv estimated from Monte Carlo simulations. Image quality phantom images were scored on a 12‐point scale by three blinded reviewers.

Results

Fluoroscope effective doses ranged from 0.04 to 0.14 mSv/1,000 pulses for fluoroscopy with associated composite image quality scores ranging from 8.0 ± 0.6 to 10.4 ± 1.3. For cineangiography, effective doses ranged from 0.17 to 0.57 mSv/1,000 frames with image quality scores ranging from 10.1 ± 0.3 to 11.1 ± 0.3. There was modest correlation between effective dose and image quality (r = 0.67, P = 0.006). The older generation fluoroscope delivered consistently higher doses than the newer generation systems (2.3‐ to 3.5‐fold higher for fluoroscopy; 1.1‐ to 3.4‐fold higher for cineangiography) without appreciable differences in image quality.

Conclusion

Technological advances have markedly improved fluoroscope performance. Comparing latest generation systems across vendors and institutions, we found variability in the dose–IQ relationship and speculate that this reflects both equipment and institutional optimization practices.
Trispyrazolylborate Ligands Supported on Vinyl Addition Polynorbornenes and Their Copper Derivatives as Recyclable Catalysts
Authors: Molina de la Torre Jesús A. , Pérez‐Ortega Ignacio , Beltrán Álvaro , Rodríguez Manuel R. , Díaz‐Requejo M. Mar , Pérez Pedro J. , Albéniz Ana C.
Published: September 2018

Polynorbornenes prepared by vinyl addition polymerization and bearing pendant alkenyl groups serve as skeletons to support trispyrazolylborate ligands (Tpx) built at those alkenyl sites. Reaction with CuI in acetonitrile led to VA‐PNB–TpxCu(NCMe) (VA‐PBN=vinyl addition polynorbornene) with a 0.8–1.4 mmol incorporation of Cu per gram of polymer. The presence of tetracoordinated copper(I) ions was been assessed by FTIR studies on the corresponding VA‐PNB‐TpxCu(CO) adducts, in agreement with those on discrete TpxCu(CO). The new materials were employed as heterogeneous catalysts in several carbene‐ and nitrene‐transfer reactions, showing a behavior similar to that of the homogeneous counterparts but also being recycled several times maintaining a high degree of activity and selectivity. This is the first example of supported Tpx ligands onto polymeric supports with catalytic applications.
Improve neural network‐based color matching of inkjet textile printing by classification with competitive neural network
Authors: Hajipour Abbas , Shams‐Nateri Ali
Published: September 2018

Nowadays, with increasing use of digital printing in the textile industry, characterization and color matching are very much considered. There is a very complicated relationship between pixel values of input digital image and colorimetric parameters of printed textile samples. One of the most important used methods for inverse characterization of printer and prediction of CMYK digital values is neural network. In this study, the prediction accuracy of CMYK digital values were improved by dividing the training samples into 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 subgroups using creating a competitive neural network. For classification of samples, L*a*b* or XYZ were introduced to a competitive neural network as input parameters. Then, the classification of test samples was performed by trained competitive neural network. To predict the of CMYK digital values of input digital image, a cascade‐forward back propagation neural network is trained by L*a*b* of each subgroup. The results obtained show that the prediction accuracy of CMYK digital values were improved by suggested method. The best result was obtained by classification of samples with L*a*b* into eight subgroups and using a cascade‐forward back propagation neural network with 4, 4, and 4 neurons in hidden layers.
A color graphic informing on the impact of electric lighting and coated glazing in complex architectural scenes
Authors: Cauwerts Coralie , Jost Sophie
Published: September 2018

The present work proposes a graphical indicator that provides descriptive information about the color content of architectural environments, and shows color shifts due to illuminant or glazing changes. This color graphic is in accord with representations recently developed in electric lighting to provide information on color rendering. Its originality lies in (1) including contextualization, (2) dividing the color space based on color naming, and (3) giving the user the opportunity to compare scenes with different correlated color temperatures. After describing the development steps of the color graphic, two case studies and three validation experiments are presented. While the application of the graphic highlights its interest in a building design process, the validation experiments identified potential improvements.
Relating Munsell to other systems in an elastic colour solid
Authors: Green‐Armytage Paul
Published: September 2018

For a student of architecture in 1958, the Munsell system was a revelation. Munsell's hue, value, and chroma were perfectly clear, but then they were challenged by the Ostwald system with its white content and black content. The revelation was followed by confusion. It became evident that there is no such thing as a single “correct” colour solid or, indeed, a single “correct” colour circle. Colour circles can be structured with equally spaced “primaries” or organized so that “complementary” colours are opposite to each other, but different systems have different sets of primaries, and the different ways of establishing complementary relationships yield different pairings. These different relationships can be reconciled if the circle is treated as elastic with intervals between colours stretched or compressed to show the relationships relevant for a given situation. In the third dimension of a colour solid, the principle of elasticity can also be applied to show relationships of value, of whiteness and blackness, and other dimensions as they are variously defined. The structure of Munsell can be “morphed” into that of Ostwald and other systems where colours are ordered according to different principles. If the colour solid is regarded as elastic, it is easier to understand the information embodied in the structures of different colour order systems and also to see how they relate.
Chemistry of Anthracene−Acetylene Oligomers XXVII. Iterative Synthesis, Structures, and Properties of Anthracene−Diacetylene Cyclic Oligomers with 10‐Mesitylanthracene‐1,8‐diyl Units
Authors: Toyota Shinji , Yoshikawa Manami , Saibara Toyoaki , Yokoyama Yuya , Komori Takashi , Iwanaga Tetsuo
Published: September 2018

A series of cyclic oligomers consisting of 10‐mesitylanthracene‐1,8‐diyl units and diacetylene linkers were synthesized as soluble π‐conjugated compounds. Macrocyclic frameworks from dimer to octamer except heptamer were constructed from 1,8‐diethynylanthracene derivatives by iterative coupling reactions. The rigid structure of the dimer, the strained structures of the trimer and the pentamer, and the belt‐shaped structures of the other even‐numbered oligomers were revealed by X‐ray analysis and DFT calculations. The dynamic behavior of the cyclic oligomers was analyzed by observing variable‐temperature 1H NMR spectra. The UV/Vis and fluorescence spectra of these emissive cyclic compounds are discussed on the basis of the molecular structures.