bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncostatin M expression in the mouse uterus during early pregnancy promotes embryo implantation and decidualization
Authors: Fu Tao , Zheng Hong‐Tao , Zhang Hai‐Yi , Chen Zi‐Cong , Li Bo , Yang Zeng‐Ming
Published: June 2019

Oncostatin M (OSM) is a member of the interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) family, which functions in embryo implantation and decidualization. The expression, function and regulation of Osm in mouse uteri during early pregnancy remain unknown. We show that Osm is mainly expressed in the uterine epithelium from days 1 to 4 of pregnancy and in decidual cells on day 5 of pregnancy. Osm promotes the attachment of Osm‐soaked blue beads, which mimic blastocysts, to a pseudopregnant mouse uterus. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)‐induced Osm in mouse uterine epithelial cells upregulates the levels of Il‐33 expression and phosphorylates Stat3. In vitro decidualization is significantly promoted by Osm. Our results indicate that PGE2‐induced Osm may mediate embryo implantation through Il‐33 and participate in decidualization via the Stat3‐Egr1 pathway.
Hydrophobic Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Jayaramulu Kolleboyina , Geyer Florian , Schneemann Andreas , Kment Štěpán , Otyepka Michal , Zboril Radek , Vollmer Doris , Fischer Roland A.
Published: June 2019

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have diverse potential applications in catalysis, gas storage, separation, and drug delivery because of their nanoscale periodicity, permanent porosity, channel functionalization, and structural diversity. Despite these promising properties, the inherent structural features of even some of the best‐performing MOFs make them moisture‐sensitive and unstable in aqueous media, limiting their practical usefulness. This problem could be overcome by developing stable hydrophobic MOFs whose chemical composition is tuned to ensure that their metal–ligand bonds persist even in the presence of moisture and water. However, the design and fabrication of such hydrophobic MOFs pose a significant challenge. Reported syntheses of hydrophobic MOFs are critically summarized, highlighting issues relating to their design, characterization, and practical use. First, wetting of hydrophobic materials is introduced and the four main strategies for synthesizing hydrophobic MOFs are discussed. Afterward, critical challenges in quantifying the wettability of these hydrophobic porous surfaces and solutions to these challenges are discussed. Finally, the reported uses of hydrophobic MOFs in practical applications such as hydrocarbon storage/separation and their use in separating oil spills from water are summarized. Finally, the state of the art is summarized and promising future developments of hydrophobic MOFs are highlighted.
Ultrastiff, Strong, and Highly Thermally Conductive Crystalline Graphitic Films with Mixed Stacking Order
Authors: Wang Bin , Cunning Benjamin V. , Kim Na Yeon , Kargar Fariborz , Park Sun‐Young , Li Zhancheng , Joshi Shalik R. , Peng Li , Modepalli Vijayakumar , Chen Xianjue , Shen Yongtao , Seong Won Kyung , Kwon Youngwoo , Jang Jeongsu , Shi Haofei , Gao Chao , Kim Gun‐Ho , Shin Tae Joo , Kim Kwanpyo , Kim Ju‐Young , Balandin Alexander A. , Lee Zonghoon , Ruoff Rodney S.
Published: June 2019

A macroscopic film (2.5 cm × 2.5 cm) made by layer‐by‐layer assembly of 100 single‐layer polycrystalline graphene films is reported. The graphene layers are transferred and stacked one by one using a wet process that leads to layer defects and interstitial contamination. Heat‐treatment of the sample up to 2800 °C results in the removal of interstitial contaminants and the healing of graphene layer defects. The resulting stacked graphene sample is a freestanding film with near‐perfect in‐plane crystallinity but a mixed stacking order through the thickness, which separates it from all existing carbon materials. Macroscale tensile tests yields maximum values of 62 GPa for the Young's modulus and 0.70 GPa for the fracture strength, significantly higher than has been reported for any other macroscale carbon films; microscale tensile tests yield maximum values of 290 GPa for the Young's modulus and 5.8 GPa for the fracture strength. The measured in‐plane thermal conductivity is exceptionally high, 2292 ± 159 W m−1 K−1 while in‐plane electrical conductivity is 2.2 × 105 S m−1. The high performance of these films is attributed to the combination of the high in‐plane crystalline order and unique stacking configuration through the thickness.
Thermochromic and Piezocapacitive Flexible Sensor Array by Combining Composite Elastomer Dielectrics and Transparent Ionic Hydrogel Electrodes
Authors: Charaya Hemant , La Thanh‐Giang , Rieger Jana , Chung Hyun‐Joong
Published: June 2019

Electronic skin (e‐skin) is an important building block to achieve human–machine interfaces, functional prostheses, and health monitoring devices. While high pressure and temperature sensitivity with visible indication are important for e‐skins, such multifunctionality often requires complex fabrication and integration processes, which hinders practical applications. Here, a simple solution is shown to fabricate a bimodal e‐skin sensor array that is capable of changing color as a response to a range of temperatures (26–40 °C) with an ability to sense finger tap (≈20 kPa pressure) as a pressure sensor. The bimodal functionality of thermochromic response and tactile sensing is achieved by judicial material selection of our custom‐developed elastomer composite containing thermochromic dye, which is sandwiched by tough and transparent stretchable electrodes of ion‐containing polyampholyte hydrogels. The e‐skin array is potentially promising for applications in internet‐of‐things and soft robotics.
Modeling of Spermbots in a Viscous Colloidal Suspension
Authors: Khalil Islam S. M. , Klingner Anke , Magdanz Veronika , Striggow Friedrich , Medina‐Sánchez Mariana , Schmidt Oliver G. , Misra Sarthak
Published: June 2019

Spermbots are biohybrid micromachines consisting of single sperm cells captured in artificial magnetic microstructures, and have the potential to act as autonomous tools for minimally invasive medicines and in diverse in vivo applications. This work investigates the hydrodynamic effects of the spermbots in a heterogeneous viscous medium similar to environments encountered in vivo. The propulsion of the spermbots is simulated using a numerical model based on the method of regularized Stokeslets for computing Stokes flows in the presence of immersed obstacles. It is shown that the concentration and size of these obstacles create a pressure gradient along the propulsion axis of the spermbot; hence they influence its effective net motion. In particular, the simulation results herein suggest that the forward and lateral swimming speeds of the spermbot increase with the concentration of the immersed obstacles and decrease with their size.
A metabolic profile of polyamines in parkinson disease: A promising biomarker
Authors: Saiki Shinji , Sasazawa Yukiko , Fujimaki Motoki , Kamagata Koji , Kaga Naoko , Taka Hikari , Li Yuanzhe , Souma Sanae , Hatano Taku , Imamichi Yoko , Furuya Norihiko , Mori Akio , Oji Yutaka , Ueno Shin‐Ichi , Nojiri Shuko , Miura Yoshiki , Ueno Takashi , Funayama Manabu , Aoki Shigeki , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: June 2019

Objective

Aging is the highest risk factor for Parkinson disease (PD). Under physiological conditions, spermidine and spermine experimentally enhance longevity via autophagy induction. Accordingly, we evaluated the ability of each polyamine metabolite to act as an age‐related, diagnostic, and severity‐associated PD biomarker.

Methods

Comprehensive metabolome analysis of plasma was performed in Cohort A (controls, n = 45; PD, n = 145), followed by analysis of 7 polyamine metabolites in Cohort B (controls, n = 49; PD, n = 186; progressive supranuclear palsy, n = 19; Alzheimer disease, n = 23). Furthermore, 20 patients with PD who were successively examined within Cohort B were studied using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Association of each polyamine metabolite with disease severity was assessed according to Hoehn and Yahr stage (H&Y) and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor section (UPDRS‐III). Additionally, the autophagy induction ability of each polyamine metabolite was examined in vitro in various cell lines.

Results

In Cohort A, N8‐acetylspermidine and N‐acetylputrescine levels were significantly and mildly elevated in PD, respectively. In Cohort B, spermine levels and spermine/spermidine ratio were significantly reduced in PD, concomitant with hyperacetylation. Furthermore, N1,N8‐diacetylspermidine levels had the highest diagnostic value, and correlated with H&Y, UPDRS‐III, and axonal degeneration quantified by DTI. The spermine/spermidine ratio in controls declined with age, but was consistently suppressed in PD. Among polyamine metabolites, spermine was the strongest autophagy inducer, especially in SH‐SY5Y cells. No significant genetic variations in 5 genes encoding enzymes associated with spermine/spermidine metabolism were detected compared with controls.

Interpretation

Spermine synthesis and N1,N8‐diacetylspermidine may respectively be useful diagnostic and severity‐associated biomarkers for PD. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:251–263
Silicon‐Mediated Coupling of Carbon Monoxide, Ammonia, and Primary Amines to Form Acetamides
Authors: Luecke Marcel‐Philip , Kostenko Arseni , Wang Yuwen , Yao Shenglai , Driess Matthias
Published: June 2019

For the first time, a direct transformation of CO, NH3, and primary amines into acetamides, mediated by a main‐group element (silicon), is reported. Starting point is the selective deoxygenative reductive homocoupling of two CO molecules by the Fc‐bis(silylene) 1 a (Fc=ferrocendiyl) as a reducing agent, which forms the ferrocendiyl‐bridged disila(μ‐O)(μ‐CCO)ketene intermediate 2 a. Exposing 2 a to NH3 (1 bar, 298 K) and benzylamine yields the Fc‐disiloxanediamines [Fc(RHNSi‐O‐SiNHR)] 5 a (R=H) and 5 b (R=benzyl) under release of the respective acetamides H3CC(O)NHR, as confirmed by 13C‐isotope‐labelling experiments. IR and NMR studies of the reaction reveal a four‐step mechanism involving an N‐silylated carboxamide that can be isolated and fully characterized. The striking reaction mechanism for this unprecedented transformation involves a facile Si−C bond cleavage and ammonolysis of a Si−O bond, and has been demonstrated experimentally and by quantum‐chemical calculations.
Direct Resonance Raman Characterization of a Peroxynitrito Copper Complex Generated from O2 and NO and Mechanistic Insights into Metal‐Mediated Peroxynitrite Decomposition
Authors: Liu Jeffrey J. , Siegler Maxime A. , Karlin Kenneth D. , Moënne‐Loccoz Pierre
Published: June 2019

We report the formation of a new copper peroxynitrite (PN) complex [CuII(TMG3tren)(κ1‐OONO)]+ (PN1) from the reaction of [CuII(TMG3tren)(O2.−)]+ (1) with NO.(g) at −125 °C. The first resonance Raman spectroscopic characterization of such a metal‐bound PN moiety supports a cis κ1‐(−OONO) geometry. PN1 transforms thermally into an isomeric form (PN2) with κ2‐O,O′‐(−OONO) coordination, which undergoes O−O bond homolysis to generate a putative cupryl (LCuII−O.) intermediate and NO2.. These transient species do not recombine to give a nitrato (NO3−) product but instead proceed to effect oxidative chemistry and formation of a CuII–nitrito (NO2−) complex (2).
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Oxidation on Ni/NiO/C Derived from a Nickel‐Based Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Yang Yang , Sun Xiaodong , Han Guanqun , Liu Xi , Zhang Xiangyu , Sun Yongfang , Zhang Min , Cao Zhi , Sun Yujie
Published: June 2019

The sluggish hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) under alkaline conditions has hindered the commercialization of hydroxide‐exchange membrane hydrogen fuel cells. A low‐cost Ni/NiO/C catalyst with abundant Ni/NiO interfacial sites was developed as a competent HOR electrocatalyst in alkaline media. Ni/NiO/C exhibits an HOR activity one order of magnitude higher than that of its parent Ni/C counterpart. Moreover, Ni/NiO/C also shows better stability and CO tolerance than commercial Pt/C in alkaline media, which renders it a very promising HOR electrocatalyst for hydrogen fuel cell applications. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were also performed to shed light on the enhanced HOR performance of Ni/NiO/C; the DFT results indicate that both hydrogen and hydroxide achieve optimal binding energies at the Ni/NiO interface, resulting from the balanced electronic and oxophilic effects at the Ni/NiO interface.
Guest Binding via N−H⋅⋅⋅π Bonding and Kinetic Entrapment by an Inorganic Macrocycle
Authors: Plajer Alex J. , Rizzuto Felix J. , Niu Hao‐Che , Lee Sanha , Goodman Jonathan M. , Wright Dominic S.
Published: June 2019

Modern supramolecular chemistry is overwhelmingly based on non‐covalent interactions involving organic architectures. However, the question of what happens when you depart from this area to the supramolecular chemistry of structures based on non‐carbon frameworks remains largely unanswered, and is an area that potentially provides new directions in molecular activation, host–guest chemistry, and biomimetic chemistry. In this work, we explore the unusual host–guest chemistry of the pentameric macrocycle [{P(μ‐NtBu}2NH]5 with a range of anionic and neutral guests. The polar coordination site of this host promotes new modes of guest encapsulation via hydrogen bonding with the π systems of the unsaturated C≡C and C≡N bonds of acetylenes and nitriles as well as with the PCO− anion. Halide guests can be kinetically locked within the structure by oxidation of the phosphorus periphery by oxidation to PV. Our study underscores the future promise of p‐block macrocyclic chemistry.
Generation of Hierarchical Porosity in Metal–Organic Frameworks by the Modulation of Cation Valence
Authors: Qi Shi‐Chao , Qian Xin‐Yu , He Qiu‐Xia , Miao Kang‐Jing , Jiang Yao , Tan Peng , Liu Xiao‐Qin , Sun Lin‐Bing
Published: June 2019

Hierarchically porous metal–organic frameworks (HP‐MOFs) have attracted great attention owing to their advantages over microporous MOFs in some applications. Despite many attempts, the development of a facile approach to generate HP‐MOFs remains a challenge. Herein we develop a new strategy, namely the modulation of cation valence, to create hierarchical porosity in MOFs. Some of the CuII metal nodes in MOFs can be transformed into CuI via reducing vapor treatment (RVT), which partially changes the coordination mode and thus breaks coordination bonds, resulting in the formation of HP‐MOF based on the original microporous MOF. Both the experimental results and the first‐principles calculation show that it is easy to tailor the amount of CuI and subsequent hierarchical porosity by tuning the RVT duration. It is found that the resultant HP‐MOFs perform much better in the capture of aromatic sulfides than the original microporous MOF.
Construction of a Nanoporous Highly Crystalline Hexagonal Boron Nitride from an Amorphous Precursor for Catalytic Dehydrogenation
Authors: Chen Hao , Yang Zhenzhen , Zhang Zihao , Chen Zitao , Chi Miaofang , Wang Song , Fu Jie , Dai Sheng
Published: June 2019

Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is regarded as a graphene analogue and exhibits important characteristics and vast application potentials. However, discovering a facile method for the preparation of nanoporous crystalline h‐BN nanosheets (h‐BNNS) is still a challenge. Herein, a novel and simple route for the conversion of amorphous h‐BN precursors into highly crystalline h‐BNNS was achieved through a successive dissolution–precipitation/crystallization process in the presence of magnesium. The h‐BNNS has high crystallinity, high porosity with a surface area of 347 m2 g−1, high purity, and enhanced thermal stability. Improved catalytic performance of crystalline h‐BNNS was evidenced by its much higher catalytic efficiency in the dehydrogenation of dodecahydro‐N‐ethylcarbazole, compared with its amorphous h‐BN precursor, as well as other precious‐metal‐loaded heterogeneous catalysts.
An Acyclic Arsenium Cation Stabilised by a Single P–As π‐Interaction and a Cyclic Diphosphinophosphonium Salt
Authors: Izod Keith , Evans Peter , Waddell Paul G.
Published: June 2019

Stable acyclic arsenium cations R2As+, isoelectronic analogues of germylenes, are rare in comparison to the corresponding phosphenium cations. The first example of a diphosphaarsenium salt, [{(Dipp)2P}2As][Al{OC(CF3)3}4]⋅1
 PhMe, is described. This salt exhibits remarkable stability due to the delocalisation of a lone pair from a planar phosphorus centre into the vacant p‐orbital at arsenic; the bonding in 2 has been probed by DFT calculations. An attempt to synthesise an analogous diphosphaphosphenium salt unexpectedly generated the cyclic phosphonium salt [cyclo‐{(Mes)P}2P(Mes)2][BArF4]⋅CyMe through the cyclisation of a putative phosphine‐substituted diphosphene cation intermediate.
Neotropical mangroves: Conservation and sustainable use in a scenario of global climate change
Authors: de Lacerda Luiz Drude , Borges Rebecca , Ferreira Alexander Cesar
Published: June 2019

This study assesses the evolution of major anthropogenic drivers of environmental impacts on Neotropical mangroves, the changes in the environmental pressures acting upon them, and the respective societal responses during the past 40 years. It reviews the impacts of new drivers, in particular those resulting from global climate change and the expansion in aquaculture and the effectiveness of local societal responses aimed at addressing them.

Adaptation and mitigation actions are proposed to cope with the impacts and their socio‐economic consequences for Latin America and Caribbean mangroves. By comparing the situation in Latin America and the Caribbean with other regions, the knowledge gaps and priority research needs are discussed to support delineating a preliminary unifying framework to address the environmental pressures affecting mangroves.

This scenario necessarily includes the interaction of climate change with human interventions and their effects on ecosystem goods and services, as well as their respective adaptation and management options. Results show that drivers of environmental impacts have changed in the past 40 years, reducing the effectiveness of some important societal responses towards conservation and sustainable management with a great potential to increase rates of mangrove deforestation and conversion to human uses.

Although efforts in conservation and restoration have contributed to decreasing pressure on these ecosystems, the coupling of old drivers, such as damming, with climate change, and the appearance of new drivers in the region, such as shrimp aquaculture, may eclipse the gains made through these conservation efforts. Despite the negative trend, we discuss some successful efforts to curb negative impacts of human activities on mangroves.

We also recommend regional assessments based on primary sources in the representative mangrove‐bearing countries throughout the continent to allow the upscaling of their experiences towards a regional response to the challenges facing Neotropical mangrove conservation and sustainable use.
Predictive direct torque control with reduced ripples for induction motor drive based on T‐S fuzzy speed controller
Authors: Ammar Abdelkarim , Talbi Billel , Ameid Tarek , Azzoug Younes , Kerrache Abdelaziz
Published: June 2019

Finite‐state model predictive control (FS‐MPC) has been widely used for controlling power converters and electric drives. Predictive torque control strategy (PTC) evaluates flux and torque in a cost function to generate an optimal inverter switching state in a sampling period. However, the existing PTC method relies on a traditional proportional‐integral (PI) controller in the external loop for speed regulation. Consequently, the torque reference may not be generated properly, especially when a sudden variation of load or inertia takes place. This paper proposes an enhanced predictive torque control scheme. A Takagi‐Sugeno fuzzy logic controller replaces PI in the external loop for speed regulation. Besides, the proposed controller generates a proper torque reference since it plays an important role in cost function design. This improvement ensures accurate tracking and robust control against different uncertainties. The effectiveness of the presented algorithms is investigated by simulation and experimental validation using MATLAB/Simulink with dSpace 1104 real‐time interface.
Preservation of categorical perception for speech in autism with and without speech onset delay
Authors: Chiodo Liliane , Mottron Laurent , Majerus Steve
Published: June 2019

Recent accounts of autistic perception, including Bayesian accounts, hypothesize a reduced influence of prior knowledge on perception across different domains in the autism spectrum (AS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of prior linguistic knowledge, in the form of phonemic categorical knowledge, on speech perception in adults with AS condition. As phonemic categorical knowledge is shaped by language experience and abilities, we furthermore distinguished AS participants with (AS‐SOD) or without a history of speech onset delay (AS‐noSOD); the control group comprises typical individuals matched for age, nonverbal intelligence, and reading abilities. We also controlled for the influence of auditory‐verbal short‐term retention capacities by administering word list and nonword list repetition tasks. We did not observe any reduced influence of prior phonemic knowledge on the perception of speech stimuli nor did we observed any increased perceptual abilities for atypical variants of speech stimuli or nonspeech auditory stimuli, either between the two autistic groups or relative to the control group. Short‐term memory abilities appeared to be superior in the AS‐noSOD group relative to the AS‐SOD and control groups, but this strength could be accounted for by their higher vocabulary knowledge. The preservation of categorical perception in verbal autistic adults observed in this study challenges models claiming a reduced influence of prior knowledge on perception across domains in the AS. Autism Res 2019. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

A reduced influence of prior knowledge has been considered to characterize perceptual abilities in people with autism. In this article, we examine this claim by assessing nonlinguistic and linguistic auditory perception abilities in adults with autism, and by further distinguishing between autism with or without a history of delayed language development. We did not observe any reduced influence of prior language knowledge on the perception of speech stimuli nor did we observe any increased perceptual abilities for atypical variants of speech stimuli or nonspeech auditory stimuli, and this relative to a control group matched on age, nonverbal intellectual efficiency, and reading abilities. Our results challenge models claiming a reduced influence of prior knowledge on perception across domains in the AS.
Occurrence of culturableLegionella pneumophilain drinking water distribution systems
Authors: LeChevallier Mark W.
Published: June 2019

A prior study of 12 potable water distribution systems detectedLegionella pneumophilain only one of 576 samples (0.17%), but the survey was conducted during winter and spring months when water temperatures were generally below 15°C (LeChevallier,AWWA Water Science2019, e1122). Ten of the utilities agreed to participate in a second round of testing during the summer and early fall months when water temperatures averaged 23°C (average temperatures ranged from 14 to 29°C).L. pneumophilawas enumerated using the Legiolert assay. A total of 669 samples were analyzed during the study: 50 source water samples, 46 from the plant effluent, and 573 from the distribution system.L. pneumophilawas detected in two source water samples and not detected in any of the treated plant effluent samples.L. pneumophilawas detected in 14 distribution system samples, 13 from free chlorinated systems and one from a chloraminated system. All occurrences ofL. pneumophilawere observed when water temperatures were >18°C. Concentrations ofL. pneumophilawere <10 most probable number/100 mL except when chlorine residuals were less than 0.1 mg/L. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that water utilities maintain at least a 0.1 mg/L chlorine residual, particularly when water temperatures are >18°C.
Birth practices: Maternal‐neonate separation as a source of toxic stress
Authors: Bergman Nils J.
Published: June 2019

Maternal‐neonate separation for human newborns has been the standard of care since the last century; low birth weight and preterm infants are still routinely separated from their mothers. With advanced technology, survival is good, but long‐term developmental outcomes are very poor for these especially vulnerable newborns. The poor outcomes are similar to those described for adversity in childhood, ascribed to toxic stress. Toxic stress is defined as the absence of the buffering protection of adult support. Parental absence has been strictly enforced in neonatal care units for many reasons and could lead to toxic stress. The understanding of toxic stress comes from discoveries about our genome and epigenetics, the microbiome, developmental neuroscience and the brain connectome, and life history theory. The common factor is the early environment that gives (a) signals to epigenes, (b) sensory inputs to neural circuits, and (c) experiences for reproductive fitness. For human newborns that environment is direct skin‐to‐skin contact from birth. Highly conserved neuroendocrine behaviors determined by environment are described in this review. The scientific rationale underlying skin‐to‐skin contact is presented: autonomic development and regulation of the physiology leads to emotional connection and achieving resilience. Maternal‐neonate separation prevents these critical neural processes from taking place, but also channel development into an alternative developmental strategy. This enables better coping in a stressful environment in the short term, but with permanently elevated stress systems that negatively impact mental and physical health in the long term. This may explain the increasing incidence of developmental problems in childhood, and also Developmental Origins of Health and Disease. Arguments are presented that maternal‐neonate separation is indeed a source of toxic stress, and some suggestions are offered toward a “zero separation” paradigm.
mTOR Senses Intracellular pH through Lysosome Dispersion from RHEB
Authors: Walton Zandra E. , Brooks Rebekah C. , Dang Chi V.
Published: June 2019

Acidity, generated in hypoxia or hypermetabolic states, perturbs homeostasis and is a feature of solid tumors. That acid peripherally disperses lysosomes is a three‐decade‐old observation, yet one little understood or appreciated. However, recent work has recognized the inhibitory impact this spatial redistribution has on mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), a key regulator of metabolism. This finding argues for a paradigm shift in localization of mTORC1 activator Ras homolog enriched in brain (RHEB), a conclusion several others have now independently reached. Thus, mTORC1, known to sense amino acids, mitogens, and energy to restrict biosynthesis to times of adequate resources, also senses pH and, via dampened mTOR‐governed synthesis of clock proteins, regulates the circadian clock to achieve concerted responses to metabolic stress. While this may allow cancer to endure metabolic deprivation, immune cell mTOR signaling likewise exhibits pH sensitivity, suggesting that suppression of antitumor immune function by solid tumor acidity may additionally fuel cancers, an obstacle potentially reversible through therapeutic pH manipulation.
Transaminase‐Catalyzed Continuous Synthesis of Biogenic Aldehydes
Authors: Contente Martina L. , Paradisi Francesca
Published: June 2019

The physiological role of biogenic aldehydes, such as 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL), has been associated with cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. The availability of these substrates is limited and robust synthetic methodologies would greatly facilitate further biological studies. Herein, a transaminase‐mediated single‐step process in continuous mode, which leads to excellent product yields (90–95 %), is reported. Coimmobilization of the pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) cofactor eliminated the need for exogenous addition of this reagent without affecting the longevity of the system, delivering a truly self‐sufficient process.
A novel method for measuring the structure sensitivity of molecular descriptors
Authors: Rakić Marija , Furtula Boris
Published: June 2019

A response of a molecular descriptor on subtle structural changes is a parameter that shed light on its quality. Until now, there was a just one attempt to quantify this property. Here, a novel method for calculating this parameter, based on fingerprint molecular similarity, is given. Preliminary investigations show that this new method outperforms already existing one. In addition, some well‐established degree‐, distance‐, and eigenvalue‐based topological molecular descriptors are subjected to this test, using acyclic, unicyclic, bicyclic, and tricyclic decanes and sorted accordingly.
Different Reactivity of Rutile and Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Surface States of Nanoparticles of Mixed‐Valence Magnéli Oxides
Authors: Baktash Elham , Capitolis Jérôme , Tinat Lionel , Larquet Clément , Chan Chang Tsou Hsi Camille , Gallet Jean‐Jacques , Bournel Fabrice , Sanchez Clément , Carenco Sophie , Portehault David
Published: June 2019

Magnéli phases TinO2n−1 (3<n≤10) are mixed Ti4+/Ti3+ oxides with high electrical conductivity. When used for water remediation or electrochemical energy storage and conversion, they are nanostructured and exposed to various environments. Therefore, understanding their surface reactivity is of prime importance. Such studies have been hindered by carbon contamination from syntheses. Herein, this synthetic and characterization challenge is addressed through a new approach to 50 nm carbon‐free Ti4O7 and Ti6O11 nanoparticles. It takes advantage of the different reactivities of rutile and anatase TiO2 nanoparticles towards H2, to use the former as precursor of TinO2n−1 and the latter as a diluting agent. This approach is combined with silica templating to restrain particle growth. The surface reactivity of the Magnéli nanoparticles under different atmospheres was then evaluated quantitatively by synchrotron‐radiation‐based X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which revealed oxidized surfaces with lower conductivity than the core. This finding sheds a new light on the charge transfer occurring in these materials.
Level of plasma catecholamine predicts surgical outcomes of carotid body tumors: Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hu Huanrui , Zhao Jichun , Wu Zhoupeng , Huang Bin
Published: June 2019

Backgrounds

Carotid body tumors (CBTs) are rare neoplasms and some of them produce catecholamine. Although operations for catecholamine‐producing CBTs are safe, the relationship between prognosis and endocrine function has not been analyzed before.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with CBTs in our department between 2009 and 2018 were analyzed. Plasma catecholamine was examined as a variable of surgical outcomes and prognosis by using statistical methods.

Results

Patients who suffered CBTs and underwent operations were divided into two groups according to their plasma catecholamine. Patients in the normal group had more or heavier surgical complications, such as neurological complications (P = .008) and blood loss (P = .03), than those in the high group. However, overall survival, local recurrence, and remote metastasis were not varied significantly in both groups.

Conclusions

A high level of plasma catecholamine was a predictor for the improved operative outcomes of CBTs. Hence, nonfunctional CBTs had further short‐term surgical complications.
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor–Associated Factor 6 Promotes Hepatocarcinogenesis by Interacting With Histone Deacetylase 3 to Enhance c‐Myc Gene Expression and Protein Stability
Authors: Wu Hua , Yang Tian‐Yu , Li Yi , Ye Wen‐Long , Liu Feng , He Xiao‐Shun , Wang Jing‐Ru , Gan Wen‐Juan , Li Xiu‐Ming , Zhang Shen , Zhao Yuan‐Yuan , Li Jian‐Ming
Published: June 2019

The oncogene c‐Myc is aberrantly expressed and plays a key role in malignant transformation and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we report that c‐Myc is significantly up‐regulated by tumor necrosis factor receptor–associated factor 6 (TRAF6), an E3 ubiquitin ligase, in hepatocarcinogenesis. High TRAF6 expression in clinical HCC samples correlates with poor prognosis, and the loss of one copy of the Traf6 gene in Traf6
+/– mice significantly impairs liver tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, TRAF6 first interacts with and ubiquitinates histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) with K63‐linked ubiquitin chains, which leads to the dissociation of HDAC3 from the c‐Myc promoter and subsequent acetylation of histone H3 at K9, thereby epigenetically enhancing the mRNA expression of c‐Myc. Second, the K63‐linked ubiquitination of HDAC3 impairs the HDAC3 interaction with c‐Myc and promotes c‐Myc protein acetylation, which thereby enhances c‐Myc protein stability by inhibiting carboxyl terminus of heat shock cognate 70‐kDa–interacting protein–mediated c‐Myc ubiquitination and degradation. Importantly, TRAF6/HDAC3/c‐Myc signaling is also primed in hepatitis B virus–transgenic mice, unveiling a critical role for a mechanism in inflammation–cancer transition. In clinical specimens, TRAF6 positively correlates with c‐Myc at both the mRNA and protein levels, and high TRAF6 and c‐Myc expression is associated with an unfavorable prognosis, suggesting that TRAF6 collaborates with c‐Myc to promote human hepatocarcinogenesis. Consistently, curbing c‐Myc expression by inhibition of TRAF6 activity with a TRAF6 inhibitor peptide or the silencing of c‐Myc by small interfering RNA significantly suppressed tumor growth in mice. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the oncogenic potential of TRAF6 during hepatocarcinogenesis by modulating TRAF6/HDAC3/c‐Myc signaling, with potential implications for HCC therapy.
Differences in brain networks of children with ADHD: Whole‐brain analysis of resting‐state fMRI
Authors: Icer Semra , Gengec Benli Serife , Ozmen Sevgi
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate changes of functional connectivity (FC) in resting state networks (RSNs) in medication‐naive children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Twenty children with a diagnosis of ADHD (11.8 ± 2.29 years; 16 boys) and 20 age‐matched typically developing (TD) children (13 ± 1.78 years; 10 boys) were included. It was found that brain FC differences in children with ADHD are not only in the well known RSNs such as default mode, visual, sensory motor, attentional, frontal, central executive, and frontal networks but also involve interaction among whole brain functional networks. In addition, basal ganglia and cerebellum networks which later gained importance were examined in this study. All RSNs has been shown significant differences in special regions which belongs related RSN. The highest positive (HPC) and negative (HNC) correlation were calculated between 14 independent components including 11 different RSNs. We observed different FC changes (decreased/increased) according to the RSNs between ADHD and control children. The HPC was defined between the visual and cerebellum network in ADHD children and between the dorsal attentional network and sensory motor network in TD children. Also, the HNC was detected between the visual and basal ganglia network in both groups. Investigating intra and inter network FC could provide a framework to better understand the neural basis that underlies core symptom dimensions in ADHD.
Comparison of phosphodiesterase 10A and dopamine transporter levels as markers of disease burden in early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pagano Gennaro , Niccolini Flavia , Wilson Heather , Yousaf Tayyabah , Khan Naheed L. , Martino Davide , Plisson Christophe , Gunn Roger N. , Rabiner Eugenii A. , Piccini Paola , Foltynie Thomas , Politis Marios
Published: June 2019

Background

Recent work has shown loss of phosphodiesterase 10A levels in middle‐stage and advanced treated patients with PD, which was associated with motor symptom severity.

Objectives

To assess phosphodiesterase 10A levels in early PD and compare with loss of dopamine transporter as markers of disease burden.

Methods

Seventy‐eight subjects were included in this study (17 early de novo, 15 early l‐dopa–treated, 24 moderate‐advanced l‐dopa–treated patients with PD, and 22 healthy controls). All participants underwent [11C]IMA107 PET, [11C]PE2I PET, and 3‐Tesla MRI scan.

Results

Early de novo PD patients showed loss of [11C]IMA107 and of [11C]PE2I binding in caudate and putamen (P < 0.001); early l‐dopa–treated PD patients showed additional loss of [11C]IMA107 in the caudate (P < 0.001; annual decline 3.6%) and putamen (P < 0.001; annual decline 2.8%), but loss of [11C]PE2I only in the putamen (P < 0.001; annual decline 6.8%). Lower [11C]IMA107 correlated with lower [11C]PE2I in the caudate (rho = 0.51; P < 0.01) and putamen (rho = 0.53; P < 0.01). Longer disease duration correlated with lower [11C]IMA107 in the caudate (rho = –0.72; P < 0.001) and putamen (rho = –0.48; P < 0.01), and with lower [11C]PE2I only in the putamen (rho = –0.65; P < 0.001). Higher burden of motor symptoms correlated with lower [11C]IMA107 in the caudate (rho = –0.42; P < 0.05) and putamen (rho = –0.41; P < 0.05), and with lower [11C]PE2I only in the putamen (rho = –0.69; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate loss of phosphodiesterase 10A levels very early in the course of PD and is associated with the gradual and progressive increase of motor symptoms. Phosphodiesterase 10A imaging shows similar potential with dopamine transporter imaging to follow disease progression. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
New electromagnetic shielding materials based on viscose‐carbon nanotubes composites
Authors: Culica Madalina Elena , Biliuta Gabriela , Rotaru Razvan , Lisa Gabriela , Baron Raluca Ioana , Coseri Sergiu
Published: June 2019

A convenient approach for the preparation of cellulose ‐ carbon nanotubes (CNT) hybrid materials owning electromagnetic shielding properties, based on viscose (V) and TEMPO‐oxidized viscose fibers (VO) is proposed. Viscose ‐ carbon nanotubes (V‐CNT) and TEMPO‐oxidized viscose ‐ carbon nanotubes (VO‐CNT) composites were prepared by embedding carbon nanotubes on the surface of two types of cellulose fibers, that is, viscose and its C6‐oxidized derivative. The chemical composition, morphology, and thermal stability of the prepared hybrid materials were thoroughly investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analyses. Moreover, electrical properties of the original and composite fibers were assessed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1499–1506 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Protein Binding on the Surface of Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Jiaojiao , Shi Haimei , Mo Tianlu , Zhang Yinglu , Wang Xudong , Ding Chuanfan , Yu Shaoning
Published: June 2019

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are widely used in the areas of biology and biomedicine. The interaction between MNPs and proteins plays a crucial role in the bioapplication of MNPs, and the binding affinity of protein–MNPs is the manifestation of this interaction. The binding affinity of some proteins with MNPs modified in various ways is determined by fluorescence quenching. The results show that the binding affinity depends on the properties of both the MNPs and the proteins. The higher the surface curvature of MNPs, the larger the MNP, and the higher the binding affinity. No significant difference is found in binding affinity between MNPs with different modification methods. For proteins, the binding affinity depends on the properties of individual proteins, such as the amino acid sequence, the native protein conformation in solution, the isoelectric point, and surface potential. In general, the binding affinity is higher for proteins with cysteine residues on the surface. In addition, pH affects the binding affinity between proteins and MNPs; positively charged proteins and lower pH are more suitable for MNP binding due to electrostatic forces.
Dietary quercetin supplements: Assessment of online product informations and quantitation of quercetin in the products by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Vida Róbert György , Fittler András , Somogyi‐Végh Anna , Poór Miklós
Published: June 2019

Administration of the increasingly popular dietary supplements containing quercetin may interfere with drug therapy. We intended to evaluate the online availability and quercetin content of the high‐dose mono‐component quercetin products and to review the potential use of quercetin products and their interactions with drugs. We monitored the online access to quercetin‐containing dietary supplements, collected the relevant information from the websites, procured selected products from the vendors, and subjected them to substance analysis. The quercetin content was quantified by an HPLC‐UV method. Twenty‐five websites offered mono‐component quercetin products, and nine products were procured. The quercetin content of eight products differed only ±10% from the nominal dose, whereas one product contained almost 30% more quercetin. Misleading indications such as antitumor and cardiovascular effects were often found on the sellers' websites. Quercetin‐containing dietary supplements are available online with misleading indications. The recommended daily doses are often high (occasionally over 1,000 mg), which may induce clinically relevant interactions with medications. Because high‐quercetin content of dietary supplements was confirmed, health care professionals should be aware of the unregulated internet market of dietary supplements and should consider the interactions of these substances with drugs.
Monitoring the effectiveness of floodplain habitat restoration: A review of methods and recommendations for future monitoring
Authors: Roni Philip , Hall Jason E. , Drenner S. Matthew , Arterburn Derek
Published: June 2019

Floodplains are some of the most ecologically important and human‐impacted habitats throughout the world. Large efforts are underway in North America, Europe, Australia, and elsewhere to restore floodplain habitats, not only to increase fish and aquatic biota but to restore ecological diversity. As the scale, number, and complexity of floodplain restoration projects has increased, so has the need for rigorous monitoring and evaluation to demonstrate effectiveness and guide future floodplain restoration efforts. Moreover, technological advances in remote sensing, genetics, and fish marking have been evolving rapidly and there is need to update guidance on the best methods for monitoring physical and biological response to floodplain restoration. A comprehensive review of the restoration literature located 180 papers that specifically examined the effectiveness of various floodplain restoration techniques. The various methods that were historically and currently used to evaluate the physical (channel and floodplain morphology, sediment, flow, water quality [temperature and nutrients]) and biological (fish, invertebrates, and aquatic and riparian plants) effectiveness of floodplain restoration were reviewed and used to provide recommendations for future monitoring. For each major physical and biological monitoring method, we discuss their importance, how they have historically been used to evaluate floodplain restoration, newer methodologies, and limitations or advantages of different methodologies and approaches. We then discuss monitoring the effectiveness of small (<2 km in main channel length) and large (>2 km of main channel length) floodplain projects, with recommendations for various study designs, parameters, and monitoring methodologies.

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Water and Life > Methods
Closed‐form solutions for a circular inhomogeneity in nonlinearly coupled thermoelectric materials
Authors: Yu Chuan‐Bin , Yang Hai‐Bing , Li Yu‐Hao , Song Kun , Gao Cun‐Fa
Published: June 2019

Thermoelectricity is a class of material possessing the ability of interconverting heat and electricity. For the sake of high conversion efficiency, inclusions/fibers are usually introduced into thermoelectric materials. However, the discontinuity of material property and geometry brought by inclusions/fibers might result in severe stress concentration and thus greatly affect the mechanical properties of thermoelectric material in its engineering service. This paper introduces a nonlinear coupled thermal–electrical–mechanical formulation for the plane problem of a circular inhomogeneity embedded in a thermoelectric medium under a combined uniform electric current density and energy flux. A special attention is directed towards the induced thermal stress field which has often neglected in the literature. Using methods based on Cauchy integrals, the complex potentials of the electric field, temperature field and associated stress field are derived explicitly in both the inhomogeneity and the surrounding matrix. The analysis shows that the electrically and thermally induced stress has a linear relationship with the energy flux applied at infinity, but has a nonlinear relationship with the remote electric current density. Numerical simulations are also performed to examine how the inhomogeneity influences the electrically induced thermal stress concentration on the interface. The presented results can be directly used for reliability consideration in design and optimization of thermoelectric composites with circular fibers/inclusions.
Ultrasound Liver Map Technique for Laparoscopic Liver Resections
Authors: Ferrero Alessandro , Lo Tesoriere Roberto , Russolillo Nadia
Published: June 2019

Background

Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is reported as a safe procedure with potential advantages over open surgery albeit with inherent limitations, such as loss of haptic perception and spatial orientation. Ultrasound is considered the best tool to identify anatomic landmarks and the transection plane during liver surgery. The aim of this study was to analyse the outcomes of LLR performed with a standardized US guidance technique.

Methods

We have standardized a 4‐step technique for ultrasound‐guided LLR: (1) compose a 3‐D mind map by studying relationships among lesions and surrounding anatomic structures, (2) sketch the map on the liver surface, (3) check, and (4) correct the transection plane in real time.

Results

Between 01/2006 and 12/2016, 190 consecutive patients treated with US‐guided LLR were analysed. The indications for LLR included malignant tumours in 148 patients (81.8%). The procedures were classified according to a difficulty scale. There were 18 major hepatectomies (9.9%), 80 anatomic bi‐ and monosegmentectomies (44.2%), and 101 non‐anatomic resections (55.8%). Redo resection was performed in 17 patients (9.4%), and multiple liver resections were performed in 25 patients (24.7%). Median intraoperative blood loss was 100 ± 154 mL. Overall and major morbidity rates were 14.9% and 1.6%, respectively. Mortality was nil.

Conclusions

Ultrasound liver map technique enables planning and real‐time guidance during laparoscopic liver resections.