bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between airline flight and sinonasal symptoms
Authors: Shargorodsky Josef , Zheng Laura , Stillman Frances , Soong Andrea , Navas‐Acien Ana , Reh Douglas
Published: February 2016

Background

Airplane cabin supply air has been shown to contain multiple possible respiratory irritants. In addition, changes in barometric pressure in flight may contribute to specific respiratory conditions. Therefore, there may be an association between commercial airline flight and sinus disease.

Methods

Participants of the Secondhand‐Smoke, Air Quality and Respiratory Health Among Flight Attendants Study were administered an online questionnaire pertaining to their flight experience and respiratory health. Working years, working days per month, and number of trips per month were quantified, as well as smoking exposure and self‐reported physician diagnoses of sinusitis, asthma, and rhinitis. The sinonasal outcomes were quantified using a Respiratory Questionnaire Survey (RQS) score. Multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between flight time and sinus disease.

Results

A total of 579 participants met the inclusion criteria for this study, with cohort prevalence of sinusitis, asthma, and rhinitis of 25.3%, 14.4%, and 20.5%, respectively. Tertiles 2 and 3 of working days per month were associated with higher RQS scores compared to tertile 1 (p for trend <0.01). Individual symptoms significantly associated with increasing number of working days per month included “need to blow nose,” “sneezing,” and “thick nasal discharge,” and the number of international trips per month was significantly associated with “coughing” and “facial pain and pressure,” among other symptoms.

Conclusion

This is the largest study to analyze the relations between airline flight time and sinonasal disease. The results suggest a possible association between sinusitis diagnosis, symptom scores, and specific sinonasal symptoms, and airline flight time.
Patient preferences for route of allergy immunotherapy: a comparison of four delivery methods
Authors: Chester Jennifer G. , Bremberg Maria G. , Reisacher William R.
Published: February 2016

Background

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy (IT) is a disease‐modifying treatment for allergic rhinitis, and adherence to the treatment schedule is important for a successful outcome. Several methods for delivering IT are now available, but little information is known concerning patient preference for these options.

Methods

Over a 12‐month period, 228 adults scheduled to undergo outpatient allergy testing were offered a survey to rank 4 different IT delivery methods: subcutaneous IT (SCIT), sublingual IT using liquid extracts (SLIT), sublingual allergy immunotherapy tablets (AIT), and oral mucosal immunotherapy (OMIT) using a toothpaste delivery vehicle.

Results

Of the participants who completed the survey, ranking scores (mean ± SD) for SCIT, SLIT, AIT, and OMIT, with 1 being the highest rank, were 3.36 ± 1.02, 2.03 ± 0.92, 2.30 ± 1.02, and 2.32 ± 1.05, respectively. The number of participants who ranked SCIT, SLIT, AIT, or OMIT as their number 1 choice was 24 (10.5%), 79 (34.6%), 61 (26.8%), and 64 (28.1%), respectively. When comparing first choice rankings, there were no statistically significant differences between SLIT, AIT, or OMIT, yet all 3 groups ranked higher than SCIT (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

SCIT earned the lowest mean rank and had the least number of participants rank it as the most preferred method. Among the other 3 choices, by mean scores, SLIT was preferred most compared to either AIT or OMIT; but when considering first choices only, there were no significant differences in preference. Most of the study participants identified the convenience of home IT administration as the most important factor in their ranking.
Draf III mucosal graft technique: long‐term results
Authors: Illing Elisa A. , Cho Do Yeon , Riley Kristen O. , Woodworth Bradford A.
Published: February 2016

Background

The Draf III procedure is an effective endoscopic approach to the treatment of frontal sinus disorders, but has a significant restenosis rate. The objective of the current study is to assess long‐term success of the Draf III mucosal grafting technique.

Methods

Patients undergoing Draf III with mucosal grafting technique were prospectively enrolled. Demographics, indication for surgery, anterior‐posterior (AP) diameter of frontal ostium, and complications were recorded. Failure was defined a priori as closure ≥50% of the intraoperative AP diameter at last clinical follow‐up.

Results

Ninety‐six patients requiring Draf III with mucosal grafting were enrolled, 67 of which (average age 54 years; range, 15–84 years) had at least 1 year of follow‐up (average 34 months; range, 12–85 months) and were included in the analysis. Reasons for the procedure included chronic rhinosinusitis with frontal ostium stenosis (n = 37), tumor (n = 26), and cerebrospinal fluid leak (n = 4). Average preoperative Lund‐Mackay score was 13.9 ± 7.8. Average intraoperative AP diameter was 11.0 ± 1.9 mm. The procedure was highly effective with 97% (65/67) of patients maintaining a patent frontal sinus ostium (>50% intraoperative AP diameter) for the duration of follow‐up (average postoperative diameter 9.9 ± 2.2 mm). However, the 2 Draf III failures remained patent, did not need further intervention, and were considered clinically successful. Three patients required reoperation for reasons unrelated to closure of the Draf III.

Conclusion

Common causes of failure following Draf III procedures include osteoneogenesis and stenosis. This study provides long‐term data demonstrating excellent outcomes using the mucosal grafting technique.
Clara cell protein 16 and eosinophil cationic protein production in chronically inflamed sinonasal mucosa
Authors: Špadijer‐Mirković Cveta , Perić Aleksandar , Belić Branislav , Vojvodić Danilo
Published: February 2016

Background

Clara cell protein 16 (CC16) is an anti‐inflammatory protein mainly expressed in the epithelial cells in the upper and lower airways. Eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) is an important marker of eosinophil activity in chronic inflammatory sinonasal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate mucosal production of CC16 and ECP in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR), nonallergic and allergic patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), before and after nasal corticosteroid administration.

Methods

Twenty patients with PAR, 20 nonallergic CRSwNP patients, 20 allergic CRSwNP patients, and 20 healthy controls were included. Mucosal cytology samples were taken from all participants for quantification of eosinophils. CC16 and ECP levels were measured in the nasal secretion samples. The patients with chronic sinonasal inflammation were treated with fluticasone nasal spray for 14 days. Nasal symptoms assessment, cytological examination, and CC16 and ECP nasal fluid measurements were performed before and after the corticosteroid treatment.

Results

Mean CC16 concentrations in nasal secretions were significantly lower in patients with PAR (p < 0.05) and allergic CRSwNP patients (p < 0.01) compared to controls. Mean ECP levels were significantly higher in patients with PAR, nonallergic CRSwNP patients, and allergic CRSwNP patients compared to the control group (p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.001, respectively). After nasal corticosteroid therapy, we found a highly significant increase of CC16 (p < 0.001) and reduction of ECP (p < 0.001) in nasal secretions in all 3 groups of patients.

Conclusion

CC16 and ECP measured in nasal secretions could be reliable markers for assessment of the recovery function of sinonasal mucosa during corticosteroid treatment.
Office‐based olfactory mucosa biopsies
Authors: Holbrook Eric H. , Rebeiz Lina , Schwob James E.
Published: February 2016

Background

Requests from researchers for olfactory mucosal biopsies are increasing as a result of advances in the fields of neuroscience and stem cell biology. Published studies report variable rates of success in obtaining true olfactory tissue, often below 50%. In cases where biopsies are not obtained carefully and confirmed through histological techniques, erroneous conclusions are made. Attention to the epithelium alone without submucosal analysis may add to the confusion. A consistent biopsy technique can help rhinologists obtain higher yields of olfactory mucosa. Confirmatory tissue staining analysis assures olfactory mucosa has been obtained, thereby strengthening clinical correlations and scientific conclusions.

Methods

Biopsies of the septum within the anterior olfactory cleft were obtained under endoscopic guidance in an office procedure room using topical local anesthetic (lidocaine). After mucosal incision, a small, cupped, biopsy forceps was used to obtain specimens approximately 2 to 3 mm in size. Specimens were sectioned and analyzed with immunohistochemistry for presence of olfactory epithelium and/or olfactory fascicles.

Results

A total of 14 subjects were biopsied in this analysis. Four subjects had biopsies in the operating room (OR). The remaining 10 underwent biopsies in the clinic. All biopsies obtained in the OR revealed evidence of olfactory mucosa. Of the 10 clinic biopsies, 8 (80%) revealed evidence of olfactory mucosa. No complications were encountered.

Conclusion

High yields of olfactory mucosa can be obtained safely in an office‐based setting. Technique, including attention to the area of biopsy, and confirmatory analysis are important in assuring presence of olfactory tissue.
The Theory of Settlement, in Two Words … With a Little Hollywood Help
Authors: Creo Robert A.
Published: February 2016

Editor's note: Alternatives columnist Bob Creo, a Pittsburgh arbitrator and mediator, has been revisiting his catalog of CPR Institute website columns, originated a decade ago, in a Back to Basics Alternatives series that he has subtitled “Human Problems, Human Solutions.” These updated and expanded columns are in print for the first time, building on new concepts and knowledge. He has revisited a wide spectrum of mediation room behaviors and practices.
Strategien für die Synthese von Naturstoffen mit benachbarten stereogenen quartären Kohlenstoffatomen
Authors: Büschleb Martin , Dorich Stéphane , Hanessian Stephen , Tao Daniel , Schenthal Kyle B. , Overman Larry E.
Published: February 2016

Anhand zwölf repräsentativer Beispiele stellen wir in diesem Aufsatz Strategien für die Totalsynthese komplexer Naturstoffe vor, die zwei oder mehr benachbarte stereogene quartäre Kohlenstoffatomen in ihren komplexen Molekülstrukturen enthalten. Das Hauptaugenmerk liegt dabei auf den Methoden zur Konstruktion quartärer stereogener Kohlenstoffzentren, einschließlich der Synthese desselben Naturstoffs auf verschiedenen Wegen durch unterschiedliche Forschergruppen; dies soll die Vielfalt der Gedankengänge sowie die Individualität kreativer Leistungen verdeutlichen. Ein Kompendium von ausgewählten Naturstoffen mit zwei oder mehr benachbarten stereogenen quartären Kohlenstoffatomen sowie von Schlüsselreaktionen ihrer jeweiligen Total‐ oder Partialsynthesen findet sich in den Hintergrundinformationen.
Hexasubstituierte Benzolderivate mit ultrastarken Dipolmomenten
Authors: Wudarczyk Jakob , Papamokos George , Margaritis Vasilis , Schollmeyer Dieter , Hinkel Felix , Baumgarten Martin , Floudas George , Müllen Klaus
Published: February 2016

Es wurden hexasubstituierte Benzolderivate hergestellt, die die stärksten ladungsfreien Dipolmomente in sich tragen, was durch dielektrische Spektroskopie und Dichtefunktionalrechnungen bestätigt wurde. Basierend auf der Herstellung von 4,5‐Diamino‐3,6‐dibromphthalonitril, verbunden mit einer neuen Methode zur Synthese von Dihydrobenzimidazolen, überschreiten diese Benzolderivate die Grenze von 10 Debye. Dipolmomente dieser Größenordnung sind für eine Vielzahl von Anwendungen wünschenswert, z. B. in der Ferroelektrik, in der nichtlinearen Optik oder in der organischen Photovoltaik. Der Strukturbeweis wurde mittels Röntgenkristallstrukturen erbracht, und die optischen Eigenschaften wurden mithilfe von UV/Vis‐Absorptions‐ und Fluoreszenzspektroskopie untersucht.
Mechanistic Insights into the Radical S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine Enzyme NosL From a Substrate Analogue and the Shunt Products
Authors: Ji Xinjian , Li Yongzhen , Jia Youli , Ding Wei , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2016

The radical S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM) enzyme NosL catalyzes the transformation of l‐tryptophan into 3‐methyl‐2‐indolic acid (MIA), which is a key intermediate in the biosynthesis of a clinically interesting antibiotic nosiheptide. NosL catalysis was investigated by using the substrate analogue 2‐methyl‐3‐(indol‐3‐yl)propanoic acid (MIPA), which can be converted into MIA by NosL. Biochemical assays with different MIPA isotopomers in D2O and H2O unambiguously indicated that the 5′‐deoxyadenosyl (dAdo)‐radical‐mediated hydrogen abstraction is from the amino group of l‐tryptophan and not a protein residue. Surprisingly, the dAdo‐radical‐mediated hydrogen abstraction occurs at two different sites of MIPA, thereby partitioning the substrate into different reaction pathways. Together with identification of an α,β‐unsaturated ketone shunt product, our study provides valuable mechanistic insight into NosL catalysis and highlights the remarkable catalytic flexibility of radical SAM enzymes.
Cobalt(III)‐katalysierte redoxneutrale Synthese von freien Indolen durch N‐N‐Bindungsspaltung
Authors: Lerchen Andreas , Vásquez‐Céspedes Suhelen , Glorius Frank
Published: February 2016

Eine redoxneutrale Cobalt(III)‐katalysierte direkte Synthese von freien Indolen wird durch eine N‐N‐Bindungsspaltung ermöglicht. Die neu eingeführten Boc‐geschützten Hydrazine eröffnen eine nützliche Erweiterung der begrenzten Auswahl an internen oxidierenden dirigierenden Gruppen in der Cobalt(III)‐Katalyse. Der Ansatz ist gut mit funktionellen Gruppen verträglich.
Exploiting the Multidentate Nature of Chiral Disulfonimides in a Multicomponent Reaction for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles: A Remarkable Case of Enantioinversion
Authors: Galván Alicia , González‐Pérez Adán B. , Álvarez Rosana , de Lera Angel R. , Fañanás Francisco J. , Rodríguez Félix
Published: February 2016

A new multicomponent coupling reaction for the enantioselective synthesis of pyrrolo[1,2‐a]indoles under the catalysis of a chiral disulfonimide is described. The high specificity of the reaction is a consequence of the multidentate character of the Brønsted acid catalyst. Insights from DFT calculations helped explain the unexpected high enantioselectivity observed with the simplest 3,3′‐unsubstituted binaphthyl catalyst as a result of transition‐state stabilization by a network of cooperative noncovalent interactions. The remarkable enantioinversion resulting from the simple introduction of substituents at 3‐ and 3′‐positions, the first reported example of this phenomenon in the context of binaphthalene‐derived Brønsted acid catalysis, was instead attributed to destabilizing steric interactions.
Capturing Biological Activity in Natural Product Fragments by Chemical Synthesis
Authors: Crane Erika A. , Gademann Karl
Published: February 2016

Natural products have had an immense influence on science and have directly led to the introduction of many drugs. Organic chemistry, and its unique ability to tailor natural products through synthesis, provides an extraordinary approach to unlock the full potential of natural products. In this Review, an approach based on natural product derived fragments is presented that can successfully address some of the current challenges in drug discovery. These fragments often display significantly reduced molecular weights, reduced structural complexity, a reduced number of synthetic steps, while retaining or even improving key biological parameters such as potency or selectivity. Examples from various stages of the drug development process up to the clinic are presented. In addition, this process can be leveraged by recent developments such as genome mining, antibody–drug conjugates, and computational approaches. All these concepts have the potential to identify the next generation of drug candidates inspired by natural products.
RNA Hairpin Folding in the Crowded Cell
Authors: Gao Mimi , Gnutt David , Orban Axel , Appel Bettina , Righetti Francesco , Winter Roland , Narberhaus Franz , Müller Sabine , Ebbinghaus Simon
Published: February 2016

Precise secondary and tertiary structure formation is critically important for the cellular functionality of ribonucleic acids (RNAs). RNA folding studies were mainly conducted in vitro, without the possibility of validating these experiments inside cells. Here, we directly resolve the folding stability of a hairpin‐structured RNA inside live mammalian cells. We find that the stability inside the cell is comparable to that in dilute physiological buffer. On the contrary, the addition of in vitro artificial crowding agents, with the exception of high‐molecular‐weight PEG, leads to a destabilization of the hairpin structure through surface interactions and reduction in water activity. We further show that RNA stability is highly variable within cell populations as well as within subcellular regions of the cytosol and nucleus. We conclude that inside cells the RNA is subject to (localized) stabilizing and destabilizing effects that lead to an on average only marginal modulation compared to diluted buffer.
Modified Nucleotides for Discrimination between Cytosine and the Epigenetic Marker 5‐Methylcytosine
Authors: von Watzdorf Janina , Leitner Kim , Marx Andreas
Published: February 2016

5‐Methyl‐2′‐deoxycytosine, the most common epigenetic marker of DNA in eukaryotic cells, plays a key role in gene regulation and affects various cellular processes such as development and carcinogenesis. Therefore, the detection of 5mC can serve as an important biomarker for diagnostics. Here we describe that modified dGTP analogues as well as modified primers are able to sense the presence or absence of a single methylation of C, even though this modification does not interfere directly with Watson–Crick nucleobase pairing. By screening several modified nucleotide scaffolds, O6‐modified 2′‐deoxyguanosine analogues were identified as discriminating between C and 5mC. These modified nucleotides might find application in site‐specific 5mC detection, for example, through real‐time PCR approaches.
Effects of air distribution on furnace temperature and CO/NO/N2O/SO2 emissions in a lab‐scale CFB furnace cofiring both biomass/coal and petroleum coke/coal
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Niu Yanqing , Sun Peng , Hui Shi'en , Liu Ruiwei , Wang Zhizhou , Zhang Xiaolu
Published: February 2016

The effects of air distribution (excess ratio of primary air, ERPA; excess ratio of secondary air, ERSA; and excess ratio of total air, ERTA) on furnace temperature and CO/NO/N2O/SO2 emissions were systematically studied in a 0.2 MW lab‐scale circulating fluidized bed (CFB) furnace cofiring both biomass/coal and petroleum coke/coal. Unlike the ERSA, the high ERPA proved to be conducive to an even temperature distribution along the height of the furnace. As a result of the interaction of the heat release of combustion and endothermic air, a high ERPA equated to a low temperature in the dense phase zone while a low ERSA equated to a high temperature in the dilute phase zone. The generation and transformation of NO/N2O/SO2 depended greatly not only on the N and S contents of the fuel but also on the temperature and ERPA or the oxygen injected into the dense phase zone; the effect of ERSA was minimal. Meanwhile, the concentration of CO was mainly affected by the ERTA. Along with increased ERPA, the concentration of CO decreased, the concentrations of NO and N2O increased, and the SO2 content increased and then decreased. The high petroleum coke cofiring ratio caused high furnace temperature in the dense phase zone and low furnace temperature in the dilute phase zone. In addition, increasing petroleum cofiring ratio resulted in high NO and SO2 emissions because of the high N and S contents of the fuel. The results provide guidance for both biomass/coal and petroleum coke/coal cofiring in CFB furnace. © 2016 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphological Studies of Nucleologenesis in Giardia lamblia
Authors: Lara‐Martínez Reyna , De Lourdes Segura‐Valdez María , De La Mora‐De La Mora Ignacio , López‐Velázquez Gabriel , JimÉnez‐García Luis Felipe
Published: February 2016

The nucleolus is a nuclear organelle involved in ribosome biogenesis. In most eukaryotes this structure disperses during prophase through anaphase and reorganizes at telophase by a process known as nucleologenesis. This process involves new transcription of ribosomal DNA at the nucleolar organizer region and the formation of prenucleolar bodies fusing to it. In Giardia lamblia, for a long time considered the only anucleolated eukaryote, a very small nucleolus has been recently described. In order to evaluate whether nucleologenesis is also present in Giardia, we analyzed the distribution of nucleolar material during telophase using different light and electron microscopy techniques including silver staining for the nucleolar organizer. Results indicate that in G. lamblia, nucleolar elements persist mainly as an intranuclear peripheral organelle during all stages of division, including telophase, however, no prenucleolar bodies are detected in the nucleoplasm. Therefore, in the parasite, nucleolar material is present throughout cell division including telophase and formation of prenucleolar bodies may not be required for nucleologenesis. Anat Rec, 299:549–556, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond the Halogen Bond: Examining the Limits of Extended Polybromide Networks through Quantum‐Chemical Investigations
Authors: Easton Max E. , Chan Bun , Masters Anthony F. , Radom Leo , Maschmeyer Thomas
Published: February 2016

The bonding environments of some polybromide monoanions and networks were examined by quantum‐chemical methods to investigate electronic interactions between dibromine–dibromine contacts. Examination of thermodynamic parameters and a bond critical point analysis give strong evidence for such bonding modes, which have been previously treated disparately in the literature. The thermodynamic stability of large polybromides up to [Br37]− was also predicted by these methods.
Emerging Supramolecular Therapeutic Carriers Based on Host–Guest Interactions
Authors: Karim Anis Abdul , Dou Qingqing , Li Zibiao , Loh Xian Jun
Published: February 2016

Recent advances in host–guest chemistry have significantly influenced the construction of supramolecular soft biomaterials. The highly selective and non‐covalent interactions provide vast possibilities of manipulating supramolecular self‐assemblies at the molecular level, allowing a rational design to control the sizes and morphologies of the resultant objects as carrier vehicles in a delivery system. In this Focus Review, the most recent developments of supramolecular self‐assemblies through host–guest inclusion, including nanoparticles, micelles, vesicles, hydrogels, and various stimuli‐responsive morphology transition materials are presented. These sophisticated materials with diverse functions, oriented towards therapeutic agent delivery, are further summarized into several active domains in the areas of drug delivery, gene delivery, co‐delivery and site‐specific targeting deliveries. Finally, the possible strategies for future design of multifunctional delivery carriers by combining host–guest chemistry with biological interface science are proposed.
h‐BN Nanosheets as 2D Substrates to Load 0D Fe3O4 Nanoparticles: A Hybrid Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Duan Zhi‐Qiang , Liu Yi‐Tao , Xie Xu‐Ming , Ye Xiong‐Ying , Zhu Xiao‐Dong
Published: February 2016

h‐BN, as an isoelectronic analogue of graphene, has improved thermal mechanical properties. Moreover, the liquid‐phase production of h‐BN is greener since harmful oxidants/reductants are unnecessary. Here we report a novel hybrid architecture by employing h‐BN nanosheets as 2D substrates to load 0D Fe3O4 nanoparticles, followed by phenol/formol carbonization to form a carbon coating. The resulting carbon‐encapsulated h‐BN@Fe3O4 hybrid architecture exhibits synergistic interactions: 1) The h‐BN nanosheets act as flexible 2D substrates to accommodate the volume change of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles; 2) The Fe3O4 nanoparticles serve as active materials to contribute to a high specific capacity; and 3) The carbon coating not only protects the hybrid architecture from deformation but also keeps the whole electrode highly conductive. The synergistic interactions translate into significantly enhanced electrochemical performances, laying a basis for the development of superior hybrid anode materials.
SMART DECK – Ein multifunktionaler Brückenbelag aus Textilbeton
Authors: Raupach Michael , Driessen Carla
Published: February 2016

Ein multifunktionaler Brückenbelag, SMART‐DECK, ermöglicht erstmals eine Kombination unterschiedlicher Aufgaben: Kontinuierliches und vollflächiges Monitoring des Bauwerkszustands, ggf. Schutz des Bauwerks mittels präventivem kathodischen Korrosionsschutz (pKKS) und Verstärken der Tragfähigkeit. Ermöglicht wird dies durch eine mit Carbontextil bewehrte Spezialmörtelschicht. Die SMART‐DECK‐Zwischenschicht soll so das Eigengewicht der Konstruktionen kaum erhöhen und sowohl für Brücken im Neubau als auch für Bestandsbrücken verwendet werden. So soll ein wesentlicher Beitrag zur Sicherstellung einer nachhaltigen Mobilität geliefert werden, da Schäden frühzeitig erkannt und notwendige Instandsetzungsmaßnahmen über Jahre in verkehrsberuhigte Zeiten hinausgezögert werden können. Der Betreiber des Brückenbauwerks ist über das Monitoringkonzept in der Lage, den Zustand seiner Fahrbahnabdichtungen in Echtzeit überwachen zu können.

Multifunctional textile reinforced concrete interlayer for bridges

A multifunctional interlayer for bridges, SMART‐DECK, provides for the first time a combination of different functions: Continuous all over monitoring of the bridge condition and if necessary the protection of the bridge with a preventive cathodic corrosion protection and the strengthening of the load capacity. All three functions are realized with a carbon textile reinforced concrete interlayer. The SMART‐DECK interlayer will not increase the dead load of the construction and will be used for new construction as well as for existing structures. Thus an essential contribution for a sustainable mobility will be made, because damages will be identified earlier and maintenance as well as repair work can be postponed for years to times with little traffic. The operator of the bridge construction is able to monitor the condition of the bridge in realtime.
miRNA‐mediated crosstalk between transcripts: The missing “linc”?
Authors: Tan Jennifer Y. , Marques Ana C.
Published: February 2016

Recently, transcriptome‐wide sequencing data have revealed the pervasiveness of intergenic long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) transcription. Subsets of lncRNAs have been demonstrated to crosstalk with and post‐transcriptionally regulate mRNAs in a microRNA (miRNA)‐dependent manner. Referred to as long noncoding competitive endogenous RNAs (lnceRNAs), these transcripts can contribute to diverse aspects of organismal and cellular biology, likely by providing a hitherto unrecognized layer of gene expression regulation. Here, we discuss the biological relevance of post‐transcriptional regulation by lnceRNAs, provide insights on recent advances in the understanding of lnceRNA regulatory networks, and speculate on molecular factors that facilitate miRNA‐dependent crosstalk between lnceRNAs and other transcripts.
The self‐assembly of redox active peptides: Synthesis and electrochemical capacitive behavior
Authors: Piccoli Julia P. , Santos Adriano , Santos‐Filho Norival A. , Lorenzón Esteban N. , Cilli Eduardo M. , Bueno Paulo R.
Published: February 2016

The present work reports on the synthesis of a redox‐tagged peptide with self‐assembling capability aiming applications in electrochemically active capacitive surfaces (associated with the presence of the redox centers) generally useful in electroanalytical applications. Peptide containing ferrocene (fc) molecular (redox) group (Ac‐Cys‐Ile‐Ile‐Lys(fc)‐Ile‐Ile‐COOH) was thus synthesized by solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS). To obtain the electrochemically active capacitive interface, the side chain of the cysteine was covalently bound to the gold electrode (sulfur group) and the side chain of Lys was used to attach the ferrocene in the peptide chain. After obtaining the purified redox‐tagged peptide, the self‐assembly and redox capability was characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance‐based capacitance spectroscopy techniques. The obtained results confirmed that the redox‐tagged peptide was successfully attached by forming an electroactive self‐assembled monolayer onto gold electrode. The design of redox active self‐assembly ferrocene‐tagged peptide is predictably useful in the development of biosensor devices precisely to detect, in a label‐free platform, those biomarkers of clinical relevance. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 106: 357–367, 2016.
Trisomy rescue mechanism: the case of concomitant mosaic trisomy 14 and maternal uniparental disomy 14 in a 15‐year‐old girl
Authors: Balbeur Samuel , Grisart Bernard , Parmentier Benoit , Sartenaer Daniel , Leonard Pierre‐Emmanuel , Ullmann Urielle , Boulanger Sébastien , Leroy Luc , Ngendahayo Placide , Lungu‐Silviu Constantin , Lysy Philippe , Maystadt Isabelle
Published: February 2016

Key Clinical Message

Maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 14 (upd(14)mat) is responsible for a Prader–Willi‐like syndrome with precocious puberty. Although upd(14) is often hypothesized to result from trisomy rescue mechanism, T14 cell lines are usually not found with postnatal cytogenetic investigations. We report the coexistence of both chromosomal abnormalities in a 15‐year‐old girl.
Ruthenium(II)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyrrole‐ and Indole‐Fused Isocoumarins by C−H Bond Activation in DMF and Water
Authors: Singh Keisham S. , Sawant Sneha G. , Dixneuf Pierre H.
Published: February 2016

Pyrrole‐ and indole‐fused isocoumarins constitute important structural units in natural products and pharmacophores, although the direct and selective bifunctionalization of pyrrole and indole remain a challenge. Herein, we report a one‐pot synthesis of pyrrole‐ and indole‐fused isocoumarins from simple 1‐methylpyrrole‐2‐carboxylic acid and 1‐methylindole‐3‐carboxylic acid by annulation with alkynes in the presence of a ruthenium(II) catalyst based on [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 with Cu(OAc)2⋅H2O as the oxidant in DMF. This ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed transformation was shown to be profitably performed in water as the solvent. The reaction, which involves carboxylate coordination, activation of the heterocyclic sp2 C−H bond, and insertion of the alkyne, is regioselective, which leads to good yields of the isocoumarins.
2H‐Tetrakis(3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl)phenylporphyrin on a Cu(110) Surface: Room‐Temperature Self‐Metalation and Surface‐Reconstruction‐Facilitated Self‐Assembly
Authors: Zhang Liang , Lepper Michael , Stark Michael , Schuster Ralf , Lungerich Dominik , Jux Norbert , Steinrück Hans‐Peter , Marbach Hubertus
Published: February 2016

The adsorption behavior of 2H‐tetrakis(3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl)phenylporphyrin (2HTTBPP) on Cu(110) and Cu(110)–(2×1)O surfaces have been investigated by using variable‐temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. On the bare Cu(110) surface, individual 2HTTBPP molecules are observed. These molecules are immobilized on the surface with a particular orientation with respect to the crystallographic directions of the Cu(110) surface and do not form supramolecular aggregates up to full monolayer coverage. In contrast, a chiral supramolecular structure is formed on the Cu(110)–(2×1)O surface, which is stabilized by van der Waals interactions between the tert‐butyl groups of neighboring molecules. These findings are explained by weakened molecule–substrate interactions on the Cu(110)–(2×1)O surface relative to the bare Cu(110) surface. By comparison with the corresponding results of Cu–tetrakis(3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl)phenylporphyrin (CuTTBPP) on Cu(110) and Cu(110)–(2×1)O surfaces, we find that the 2HTTBPP molecules can self‐metalate on both surfaces with copper atoms from the substrate at room temperature (RT). The possible origins of the self‐metalation reaction at RT are discussed. Finally, peculiar irreversible temperature‐dependent switching of the intramolecular conformations of the investigated molecules on the Cu(110) surface was observed and interpreted.
Nickel(II)meso‐Hydroxyporphyrin Complexes Revisited: Palladium‐Catalysed Synthesis, Electronic Structures of Derived Oxy Radicals, and Oxidative Coupling to a Dioxoporphodimethene Dyad
Authors: Esdaile Louisa J. , Rintoul Llew , Goh Mean See , Merahi Khalissa , Parizel Nathalie , Wellard R. Mark , Choua Sylvie , Arnold Dennis P.
Published: February 2016

We report the synthesis and characterisation of new examples ofmeso‐hydroxynickel(II) porphyrins with 5,15‐diphenyl and 10‐phenyl‐5,15‐diphenyl/diaryl substitution. The OH group was introduced by using carbonate or hydroxide as nucleophile by using palladium/phosphine catalysis. The NiPor−OHs exist in solution in equilibrium with the corresponding oxy radicals NiPor−O.. The 15‐phenyl group stabilises the radicals, so that the1H NMR spectra of {NiPor−OH} are extremely broad due to chemical exchange with the paramagnetic species. The radical concentration for the diphenylporphyrin analogue is only 1 %, and its NMR line‐broadening was able to be studied by variable‐temperature NMR spectroscopy. The EPR signals of NiPor−O.are consistent with somewhat delocalised porphyrinyloxy radicals, and the spin distributions calculated by using density functional theory match the EPR and NMR spectroscopic observations. Nickel(II)meso‐hydroxy‐10,20‐diphenylporphyrin was oxidatively coupled to a dioxo‐terminated porphodimethene dyad, the strongly red‐shifted electronic spectrum of which was successfully modelled by using time‐dependent DFT calculations.
A Highly Reactive Geminal P/B Frustrated Lewis Pair: Expanding the Scope to C−X (X=Cl, Br) Bond Activation
Authors: Samigullin Kamil , Georg Isabelle , Bolte Michael , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram , Wagner Matthias
Published: February 2016

The geminal frustrated Lewis pair tBu2PCH2B(Fxyl)2 (1; Fxyl=3,5‐(CF3)2C6H3) is accessible in 65 % yield from tBu2PCH2Li and (Fxyl)2BF. According to NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography, 1 is monomeric both in solution and in the solid state. The intramolecular P⋅⋅⋅B distance of 2.900(5) Å and the full planarity of the borane site exclude any significant P/B interaction. Compound 1 readily activates a broad variety of substrates including H2, EtMe2SiH, CO2/CS2, Ph2CO, and H3CCN. Terminal alkynes react with heterolysis of the C−H bond. Haloboranes give cyclic adducts with strong P−BX3 and weak R3B−X bonds. Unprecedented transformations leading to zwitterionic XP/BCX3 adducts occur on treatment of 1 with CCl4 or CBr4 in Et2O. In less polar solvents (C6H6, n‐pentane), XP/BCX3 adduct formation is accompanied by the generation of significant amounts of XP/BX adducts. FLP 1 catalyzes the hydrogenation of PhCH=NtBu and the hydrosilylation of Ph2CO with EtMe2SiH.
Generation of Aryl Radicals through Reduction of Hypervalent Iodine(III) Compounds with TEMPONa: Radical Alkene Oxyarylation
Authors: Hartmann Marcel , Li Yi , Mück‐Lichtenfeld Christian , Studer Armido
Published: February 2016

A novel method for selective generation of aryl radicals from diaryliodonium salts and iodanylidene malonates with sodium 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPONa) as a single‐electron transfer (SET) reducing reagent is described. In the presence of various alkenes, aryl radicals formed after SET‐reduction of hypervalent iodine compounds undergo alkene addition and the adduct radicals that are thus generated are efficiently trapped by the concomitantly generated TEMPO radical to eventually afford oxyarylated products in moderate to very good yields. The efficiency of aryl radical generation of various iodine(III) reagents is studied and the generation of an iodanylidene malonate aryl radical is also investigated by computational methods.
Micro‐Macroporous Composite Materials: SiC Ceramic Foams Functionalized With the Metal Organic Framework HKUST‐1
Authors: Betke Ulf , Proemmel Steven , Eggebrecht Jakob G. , Rannabauer Stefan , Lieb Alexandra , Scheffler Michael , Scheffler Franziska
Published: February 2016

The metal organic framework material Cu3(btc)2·3H2O (HKUST‐1) was grown on differently activated oxide‐bonded SiC ceramic foams with varying pore sizes. Activation was performed by an alkaline etching procedure under dissolution of the SiO2 binder phase in the ob‐SiC microstructure leading to an increase in strut surface roughness. The influence of foam pore size, etching conditions (duration, temperature) and the effect of a subsequent alumina coating to increase the coverage with –OH moieties was studied. The activated foams and MOF@ob‐SiC composites were characterized by microstructural analysis, H2O adsorption and thermal conductivity measurements.
Cancer Immunotherapy: Selected Targets and Small‐Molecule Modulators
Authors: Weinmann Hilmar
Published: February 2016

There is a significant amount of excitement in the scientific community around cancer immunotherapy, as this approach has renewed hope for many cancer patients owing to some recent successes in the clinic. Currently available immuno‐oncology therapeutics under clinical development and on the market are mostly biologics (antibodies, proteins, engineered cells, and oncolytic viruses). However, modulation of the immune system with small molecules offers several advantages that may be complementary and potentially synergistic to the use of large biologicals. Therefore, the discovery and development of novel small‐molecule modulators is a rapidly growing research area for medicinal chemists working in cancer immunotherapy. This review provides a brief introduction into recent trends related to selected targets and pathways for cancer immunotherapy and their small‐molecule pharmacological modulators.
Enantiomeric Excess Sensitivity to Below One Percent by Using Femtosecond Photoelectron Circular Dichroism
Authors: Kastner Alexander , Lux Christian , Ring Tom , Züllighoven Stefanie , Sarpe Cristian , Senftleben Arne , Baumert Thomas
Published: February 2016

Photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD) is experimentally investigated with chiral specimens with varying amounts of enantiomeric excess (ee). As a prototype, we measure and analyze the photoelectron angular distribution from randomly oriented fenchone molecules in the gas phase that result from ionization with circularly polarized femtosecond laser pulses. The quantification of these measurements shows a linear dependence with respect to the ee values. In addition, differences in the ee values (denoted as detection limit) of below one percent can be distinguished for nearly enantiopure samples, as well as for almost racemates. In combination with the use of a reference, the assignment of absolute ee values is possible. The present measurement time is a few minutes, but this could be reduced. This table‐top laser‐based approach should facilitate widespread implementation in chiral analysis.
Photometric Detection of Nitric Oxide Using a Dissolved Iron(III) Corrole as a Sensitizer
Authors: Fischer Stefan , Vestfrid Jenya , Mahammed Atif , Herrmann‐Westendorf Felix , Schulz Martin , Müller Jürgen , Kiesewetter Olaf , Dietzek Benjamin , Gross Zeev , Presselt Martin
Published: February 2016

The potential of an iron(III) corrole complex for use in the detection of nitric oxide (NO) was investigated. The reversible conversion of an dissolved iron(III) corrole to its corresponding nitrosyl complex using gaseous nitric oxide was monitored by UV/Vis spectroscopy. The spectral differences between both coordination compounds were used to determine photometrically small amounts of nitric oxide in the sub‐parts‐per‐million range. The spectral changes due to NO binding were assigned to charge‐transfer transitions arising upon NO coordination and were analyzed in detail with support from quantum chemical calculations. Finally, films of the iron(III) corrole were deposited on quartz glass. Thus, the great potential of iron(III) corroles for the development of advanced, highly sensitive and low‐energy‐consuming photonic sensing devices was demonstrated.
Finite‐time stabilization of complex dynamical networks via optimal control
Authors: Mei Guofeng , Wu Xiaoqun , Ning Di , Lu Jun‐An
Published: February 2016

An optimal control scheme is proposed to stabilize complex networks in finite time. Furthermore, since it is costly and impractical to control a network by applying controllers to all the nodes, an algorithm inspired by Kalmans controllability rank condition is presented for local stabilization by locating pinned components. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method as well as its superiority over a traditional pinning control technique. This work offers a theoretical framework for designing optimal controllers to stabilize networks in finite time with reduced control cost. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 417–425, 2016
Automated analysis of sleep control via a single neuron active at sleep onset in C. elegans
Authors: Urmersbach Birk , Besseling Judith , Spies Jan‐Philipp , Bringmann Henrik
Published: February 2016

Summary: Longitudinal analyses are crucial for understanding long‐term processes such as development and behavioral rhythms. For a complete understanding of such processes, both organism‐level observations as well as single‐cell observations are necessary. Sleep is an example for a long‐term process that is under developmental control. This behavioral state is induced by conserved sleep‐active neurons, but little is known about how sleep neurons control the physiology of an animal systemically. In the nematode C. elegans, sleep induction crucially requires the single RIS interneuron to actively induce a developmentally regulated sleep behavior. Here, we used RIS‐induced sleep as an example of how longitudinal analyses can be automated. We developed methods to analyze both behavior and neural activity in larva across the sleep‐wake cycle. To image behavior, we used an improved DIC contrast to extract the head and detect the nose. To image neural activity, we used GCaMP3 expression in a small number of neurons including RIS combined with a neuron discrimination algorithm. Thus, we present a comprehensive platform for automatically analyzing behavior and neural activity in C. elegans exemplified by using RIS‐induced sleep during C. elegans development. genesis, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. genesis 54:212–219, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The depth distribution of organic carbon in the soils of eastern Australia
Authors: Hobley Eleanor U. , Wilson Brian
Published: February 2016

Subsurface soil organic carbon (SOC) is a large but still poorly understood component of the global carbon cycle. We investigated the depth distribution of SOC in eastern Australia, testing the hypotheses that SOC content near the surface is linked with water availability, whereas the distribution of SOC with depth is linked with land use, site factors and temperature. To do this, we measured SOC concentration to 1 m at 100 sites across eastern Australia, and fitted three parameter exponential depletion models to the results. Three machine learning algorithms were used to identify predictors important to the model parameters. Multiple regression models were then created based upon the machine learning results using bootstrapped stepwise regressions and the relative importance of the selected variables was assessed using proportional marginal variance decomposition. Surface SOC concentration was influenced predominantly by climate variables, of which seasonal rainfall was by far the most important. At depth, SOC storage was most influenced by site factors (mainly bulk density and soil type), and both land use and climate contributed similar amounts to model explained variance. The depth distribution of SOC was most influenced by land use, which accounted for ~60% of model explained variance, with site and climate factors being approximately equally important. These results support our hypotheses regarding the drivers of SOC depth distribution in eastern Australia and can be used to identify regions with the potential for additional subsurface soil carbon storage.
Timing of translocation influences birth rate and population dynamics in a forest carnivore
Authors: Facka Aaron N. , Lewis Jeffrey C. , Happe Patricia , Jenkins Kurt , Callas Richard , Powell Roger A.
Published: February 2016

Timing can be critical for many life history events of organisms. Consequently, the timing of management activities may affect individuals and populations in numerous and unforeseen ways. Translocations of organisms are used to restore or expand populations but the timing of translocations is largely unexplored as a factor influencing population success. We hypothesized that the process of translocation negatively influences reproductive rates of individuals that are moved just before their birthing season and, therefore, the timing of releases could influence translocation success. Prior to reintroducing fishers (Pekania pennanti) into northern California and onto the Olympic Peninsula of Washington, we predicted that female fishers released in November and December (early) would have a higher probability of giving birth to kits the following March or April than females released in January, February, and March (late), just prior to or during the period of blastocyst implantation and gestation. Over four winters (2008–2011), we translocated 56 adult female fishers that could have given birth in the spring immediately after release. Denning rates, an index of birth rate, for females released early were 92% in California and 38% in Washington. In contrast, denning rates for females released late were 40% and 11%, in California and Washington, a net reduction in denning rate of 66% across both sites. To understand how releasing females nearer to parturition could influence population establishment and persistence, we used stochastic population simulations using three‐stage Lefkovitch matrices. These simulations showed that translocating female fishers early had long‐term positive influences on the mean population size and on quasi‐extinction thresholds compared to populations where females were released late. The results from both empirical data and simulations show that the timing of translocation, with respect to life history events, should be considered during planning of translocations and implemented before the capture, movement, and release of organisms for translocation.