bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil Conservation in the 21st Century: Why we need Smart Intensification
Authors: Govers Gerard , Merckx Roel , Van Wesemael Bas , Van Oost Kristof
Published: July 2016

Abstract. While the implementation of soil conservation depends on a multitude of factors, it is also clear that rapid change in agricultural systems only happens when a clear economic incentive is present. This fact, as well as the fact that agriculture will change fundamentally in the Global South over the next decades, need to be accounted for when developing a vision on how we may achieve effective soil conservation in the Global South. In this paper we argue that smart intensification is a necessary component of such strategy. Smart intensification will not only allow to make soil conservation more economical, but will also allow to make significant gains in term of soil organic carbon storage, water efficiency and biodiversity, while at the same time lowering the overall erosion risk. While smart intensification as such will not lead to adequate soil conservation, it will facilitate it and, at the same time, allow to offer the farmers of the Global South a viable future.
The Research on Strategies of College English Teachers Classroom Questioning
Authors: Wangru Cao
Published: July 2016

Questioning is one of the most frequently used strategies in classroom teaching, as well as the most influential teaching skill. It is a useful way for teachers to output information, to convey information and to obtain feedback from students. Teachers can also use it to communicate with their students. Effective questioning in class can encourage students to give relative and complete answers. It can activate students’ thought, develop their recognition and organize the class as well. However, there is little research in teachers’ questioning, especially in which teachers’ questioning and students’ expectations are combined. This study aims to explore the teachers’ questioning characteristics from the following aspects: the types of questions, the ways of answering questions, questioning strategies, the distribution of questions, wait time and feedback in college EFL class. The results may contribute to the teachers’ questioning and the second language acquisition in EFL classrooms; meanwhile it may train students’ language competence and improve the efficiency of teaching quality.
Investigating University Students’ Preferences to Science Communication Skills: A Case of Prospective Science Teacher in Indonesia
Authors: Suprapto Nadi , Ku Chih-Hsiung
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate Indonesian university students’ preferences to science communication skills. Data collected from 251 students who were majoring in science education program. The Learning Preferences to Science Communication (LPSC) questionnaire was developed with Indonesian language and validated through an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of participants’ responses. The differences between student levels were also explored for their significance using ANOVA test in order to draw a clear line among different learning preferences. The results indicated that, first, the instrument used in this study had satisfactory in validity and reliability. The construct validities of the LPSC were vary from .48 and .83 and explained 64.54% of the variance. Overall, the Cronbach alpha coefficient of the instrument was .91. Second, university students as prospective teacher in junior and freshman level performed higher preference in visual (V) and aural (A) than others. Moreover, senior student depicted higher confident in read or write (R/W) than junior and sophomore level. However, university student in sophomore level performed less confident in both visual and aural. Third, the results also showed the significant intra-relationships among dimensions of learning preferences. The implications delineated contribute to the improvement of science teacher education program in Indonesia.
The Investigation of the Effects of Authentic Assessment Approach on Prospective Teachers’ Problem-Solving Skills
Authors: Kinay Ismail , Bagceci Birsen
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of authentic assessment, an approach used in Scientific Research Methods, on problem solving skills of prospective classroom teachers. The participant groups of the study consisted of sophomore prospective teachers who study at Dicle University in the Ziya Gökalp Education Faculty Classroom Teaching Department during 2013-2014 academic spring term. The two classrooms in the department were randomly assigned as experimental group (Group B) and control group (Group A). The experimental group was given authentic tasks and asked to do them group work. The authentic tasks fulfilled by prospective teachers were analyzed in accordance with the authentic assessment approach. Authentic assessment tools such as self-assessment, group assessment, portfolio assessment, teacher-peer assessment, weekly performance assessment, and student journals were used in the experimental group. Meanwhile, control group activities were based on a subject-oriented curriculum design and teacher-centered traditional practices and assessment were carried out. Methods like verbal lectures, discussions, and question-answers were used. In addition, the evaluation process was conducted on the mid-term exam essay in traditional sense. While the pre-test and post-test results of the experimental group indicate a statistically significant positive difference for the post-test, the difference between pre- and post-test results for the control groups were not found to be statistically significant. Moreover, a comparative analysis of adjusted post-test results based on pre-test results of experimental and control groups indicated a statistically significant positive difference in favor of experimental group.
The Comparative Studying of Rumi and Bonaventura Mystical Epistemology
Authors: Aliyari Farshad , Elmi Qorban , Alizamani Amirabbas
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this paper is to consider most critical issues of mystical epistemology in Rumi and Bonaventura once the views on subject, reality of the world, and the possibility of knowledge were expressed. This research referring works of Rumi and Bonaventura studies this issue through a descriptive-analytical method. Rumi and Bonaventura recognized three stages of human recognition realm including sensory, rational and illuminative recognitions. They both believe that achieving real knowledge and recognition requires revelation in addition to reason. In their perspective, the spirit is the unique intuitive and mystical knowledge tool such that Bonaventura extends its epistemology based on illumination referring this stage the supreme level, intuition and unity to God. At this stage, human being is not merely a definite subject rather an external phenomenon influencing knowledge trend. Rumi states that real treasure between God and world is only recognized by mysticism not through discussion and rational reasoning.
Social Networks and Customer Relationship Development at the Saudi Telecommunication Service Providers
Authors: Saleh Mahmoud
Published: July 2016

This paper is aimed at examining the relationship between the use of social networks and customer relationship development at the three telecommunication service providers in Saudi Arabia. It is also aimed at identifying some factors that may influence the companies’ relationships with their customers. Drawing on previous research, the researcher has selected three factors related to customers on social networks: trust and loyalty, service assessment, and information engagement. The study revealed a strong association of the use of social networks with the company’s customer relationship development, trust and loyalty, and service assessment, but not with information engagement. The findings also demonstrated significant positive associations of trust and loyalty, and service assessment with customer relationship development. However, an insignificant positive relationship was found between information engagement and customer relationship development. To leverage the effectiveness of customer relationship management at telecommunication companies in Saudi Arabia, the study recommended these companies to adopt the concept of Social Customer Relationship Management (Social CRM), and to develop customer service skills of their staff in charge of social networks. The study also pointed out the importance of encouraging customers to use social networks to connect with companies, rather than just using the traditional methods. Furthermore, the study recommended the companies to pay more attention to the customers’ assessment of their social networks, and to ensure security and privacy of their data. Ultimately, the companies need to focus on providing customers with the needed information, and benefiting from their feedbacks on social networking sites.
Human Cardiomyocytes Prior to Birth by Integration-Free Reprogramming of Amniotic Fluid Cells
Authors: Jiang Guihua , Herron Todd J. , Di Bernardo Julie , Walker Kendal A. , O’Shea K. Sue , Kunisaki Shaun M.
Published: July 2016

The establishment of an abundant source of autologous cardiac progenitor cells would represent a major advance toward eventual clinical translation of regenerative medicine strategies in children with prenatally diagnosed congenital heart disease. In support of this concept, we sought to examine whether functional, transgene-free human cardiomyocytes (CMs) with potential for patient-specific and autologous applications could be reliably generated following routine amniocentesis. Under institutional review board approval, amniotic fluid specimens (8–10 ml) at 20 weeks gestation were expanded and reprogrammed toward pluripotency using nonintegrating Sendai virus (SeV) expressing OCT4, SOX2, cMYC, and KLF4. Following exposure of these induced pluripotent stem cells to cardiogenic differentiation conditions, spontaneously beating amniotic fluid-derived cardiomyocytes (AF-CMs) were successfully generated with high efficiency. After 6 weeks, quantitative gene expression revealed a mixed population of differentiated atrial, ventricular, and nodal AF-CMs, as demonstrated by upregulation of multiple cardiac markers, including MYH6, MYL7, TNNT2, TTN, and HCN4, which were comparable to levels expressed by neonatal dermal fibroblast-derived CM controls. AF-CMs had a normal karyotype and demonstrated loss of NANOG, OCT4, and the SeV transgene. Functional characterization of SIRPA+ AF-CMs showed a higher spontaneous beat frequency in comparison with dermal fibroblast controls but revealed normal calcium transients and appropriate chronotropic responses after β-adrenergic agonist stimulation. Taken together, these data suggest that somatic cells present within human amniotic fluid can be used to generate a highly scalable source of functional, transgene-free, autologous CMs before a child is born. This approach may be ideally suited for patients with prenatally diagnosed cardiac anomalies.

Significance

This study presents transgene-free human amniotic fluid-derived cardiomyocytes (AF-CMs) for potential therapy in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. Using 8–10 ml of amniotic fluid harvested at 20 weeks gestation from normal pregnancies, a mixed population of atrial, ventricular, and nodal AF-CMs were reliably generated after Sendai virus reprogramming toward pluripotency. Functional characterization of purified populations of beating AF-CMs revealed normal calcium transients and appropriate chronotropic responses after β-adrenergic agonist stimulation in comparison with dermal fibroblast controls. Because AF-CMs can be generated in fewer than 16 weeks, this approach may be ideally suited for eventual clinical translation at birth in children with prenatally diagnosed cardiac anomalies.
Aproximaciones a los usos y apropiación de Twitter en bibliotecas universitarias de Argentina
Authors: Laudano Claudia Nora , Planas Javier , Kessler María Inés
Published: July 2016

El artículo analiza los principales usos de la plataforma Twitter por parte de bibliotecas universitarias en Argentina. Luego de la revisión bibliográfica, se exponen los procedimientos metodológicos empleados para identificar las instituciones que cuentan con esta herramienta  comunicacional en la actualidad y los usos que se hace de ella a partir de ítems tales como: datos institucionales básicos, visibilidad y accesibilidad de la cuenta de Twitter en la Web de la biblioteca, momento de inicio de la actividad, volumen histórico de tuits, seguidores y siguiendo, así como cantidad y tipo de publicaciones realizadas en el período del relevamiento de datos. En los resultados se observa que un escaso número de bibliotecas  adoptaron Twitter y que la apropiación de la herramienta muestra en general usos no planificados más centrados en la difusión que la interacción con usuarios. Se proponen estudios complementarios para conocer rutinas laborales de los bibliotecarios al respecto.
Disposición al riesgo en la actividad sexual de adolescentes: El rol de los modelos internos de apego, de las relaciones de apego con padres e iguales y de las dificultades de regulación emocional.
Authors: Gómez-Zapiaín Javier , Ortiz Barón María José , Eceiza Camarero Amaia
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study is to analyze the relationship between risk-taking in sexual relationships and affective-emotional variables such as attachment to mother, father, peers, attachment styles and difficulties in emotional regulation capacity in adolescence. 1911 adolescent students of both sexes between 15 and 20 years of age participated.  Results indicate that attachment security is inversely related to risk-taking in sexual relationships. Less risk-taking is associated with attachment to mother and peers in sexually inactive adolescents while in the sexually active with the capacity for emotional regulation. Differences were found in gender and attachment categories and among sexually active and inactive adolescents.
Motivational Orientations of High-Achieving Students as Mediators of a Positive Perception of a High-Achieving Classmate: Results from a Cross-national Study
Authors: Oh Hyerim , Badia-Martín Maria del Mar , Blumen Sheyla , Maakrun Julie , Nguyena Quoc An-Thu , Stack Niamh , Sutherland Margaret , Wormald Catherine , Ziegler Albert
Published: July 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore whether and in what ways high-achieving school students’ motivational orientations influence their perceptions of a fictitious future high-achieving classmate. The final sample consisted of the 396 highest achieving students out of a sample from 1794 seventh and tenth graders from five countries: Australia, Peru, South Korea, Spain, and Vietnam. A series of stepwise regression models were used to test the hypothesis that positive perceptions of a high-achieving classmate might be mediated by an approach motivation, but not by an avoidance motivational orientation. The hypothesis was generally confirmed. Learning goal orientation and performance approach motivation predicted positive perceptions of a high-achieving classmate’s intellectual ability, social qualities and popularity among peers, whereas a performance avoidance orientation was usually uncorrelated. However, sporadic exceptions have been found among the participants from Vietnam, South Korea, and Peru.
Flujo Compartido y Reuniones Colectivas Positivas
Authors: Zumeta Larraitz , Basabe Nekane , Wlodarczyk Anna , Bobowik Magda , Paez Darío
Published: July 2016

Collective gatherings or rituals promote optimal experiences in socially acceptable circumstances. Few studies have empirically examined the experience of flow shared by a group in collective situations. The present research examined the multi-dimensional structure of shared flow experience and its role in explaining positive effects of participation in collective ritualized gatherings on personal wellbeing and social cohesion. In this longitudinal study (N = 550) participants of a local festival celebrated in San Sebastian (Tamborrada) responded to an online questionnaire at three different times. Confirmatory factor analyses supported a structure composed of nine first-order factors and one second-order factor with a 27-item version of the scale. Further, structural equation modeling analyses controlling for the pre-event scores showed indirect effects of participation in Tamborrada through shared flow on happiness, collective efficacy, identity fusion, and social integration. This research concludes that positive collective gatherings stimulate shared flow experiences and thus promote personal wellbeing and social cohesion. We discuss both the implications of
A Metropolização da pobreza de São Paulo: Dinâmica Imobiliária, Violência e a Organização Socioespacial da Metrópole
Authors: Canettieri Thiago
Published: July 2016

O presente artigo objetiva evidenciar o constante processo de expulsão que os pobres estão submetidos nas metrópoles brasileiras. A partir do caso de São Paulo objetiva-se demonstrar como os processos de realização de uma metrópole voltada para atender as demandas do capital significa na sua negação para as classes trabalhadoras. Essa forma socioespacial é mantida pela continua despossessão das classes trabalhadoras, que, por vias violentas, são submetidos a estrutura imposta para que ocorra a reprodução do capital.
Protein arginine methylation facilitates KCNQ channel-PIP2 interaction leading to seizure suppression
Authors: Kim Hyun-Ji , Jeong Myong-Ho , Kim Kyung-Ran , Jung Chang-Yun , Lee Seul-Yi , Kim Hanna , Koh Jewoo , Vuong Tuan Anh , Jung Seungmoon , Yang Hyunwoo , Park Su-Kyung , Choi Dahee , Kim Sung Hun , Kang KyeongJin , Sohn Jong-Woo , Park Joo Min , Jeon Daejong , Koo Seung-Hoi , Ho Won-Kyung , Kang Jong-Sun , Kim Seong-Tae , Cho Hana
Published: July 2016

KCNQ channels are critical determinants of neuronal excitability, thus emerging as a novel target of anti-epileptic drugs. To date, the mechanisms of KCNQ channel modulation have been mostly characterized to be inhibitory via Gq-coupled receptors, Ca2+/CaM, and protein kinase C. Here we demonstrate that methylation of KCNQ by protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (Prmt1) positively regulates KCNQ channel activity, thereby preventing neuronal hyperexcitability.Prmt1+/-mice exhibit epileptic seizures. Methylation of KCNQ2 channels at 4 arginine residues by Prmt1 enhances PIP2binding, andPrmt1depletion lowers PIP2affinity of KCNQ2 channels and thereby the channel activities. Consistently, exogenous PIP2addition toPrmt1+/-neurons restores KCNQ currents and neuronal excitability to the WT level. Collectively, we propose that Prmt1-dependent facilitation of KCNQ-PIP2interaction underlies the positive regulation of KCNQ activity by arginine methylation, which may serve as a key target for prevention of neuronal hyperexcitability and seizures.
A simple grid implementation with Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing using BLAST as a model
Authors: Pinthong Watthanai , Muangruen Panya , Suriyaphol Prapat , Mairiang Dumrong
Published: July 2016

Development of high-throughput technologies, such as Next-generation sequencing, allows thousands of experiments to be performed simultaneously while reducing resource requirement. Consequently, a massive amount of experiment data is now rapidly generated. Nevertheless, the data are not readily usable or meaningful until they are further analysed and interpreted. Due to the size of the data, a high performance computer (HPC) is required for the analysis and interpretation. However, the HPC is expensive and difficult to access. Other means were developed to allow researchers to acquire the power of HPC without a need to purchase and maintain one such as cloud computing services and grid computing system. In this study, we implemented grid computing in a computer training center environment using Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing (BOINC) as a job distributor and data manager combining all desktop computers to virtualize the HPC. Fifty desktop computers were used for setting up a grid system during the off-hours. In order to test the performance of the grid system, we adapted the Basic Local Alignment Search Tools (BLAST) to the BOINC system. Sequencing results from Illumina platform were aligned to the human genome database by BLAST on the grid system. The result and processing time were compared to those from a single desktop computer and HPC. The estimated durations of BLAST analysis for 4 million sequence reads on a desktop PC, HPC and the grid system were 568, 24 and 5 days, respectively. Thus, the grid implementation of BLAST by BOINC is an efficient alternative to the HPC for sequence alignment. The grid implementation by BOINC also helped tap unused computing resources during the off-hours and could be easily modified for other available bioinformatics software.
Will 1,2-dihydro-1,2-azaborine-based drugs resist metabolism by cytochrome P450 compound I?
Authors: Silva Pedro J.
Published: July 2016

1,2-dihydro-1,2-azaborine is a structural and electronic analogue of benzene which is able to occupy benzene-binding pockets in T4 lysozyme and has been proposed as suitable arene-mimicking group for biological and pharmaceutical applications. Its applicability in a biological context requires it to be able to resist modification by xenobiotic-degrading enzymes like the P450 cytochromes. Quantum chemical computations described in this work show that 1,2-dihydro-1,2-azaborine is much more prone to modification by these enzymes than benzene, unless steric crowding of the ring prevents it from reaching the active site, or otherwise only allows reaction at the less reactive C4-position. This novel heterocyclic compound is therefore expected to be of limited usefulness as an aryl bioisostere.
Current energetic particle sensors
Authors: Fennell J. F. , Blake J. B. , Claudepierre S. , Mazur J. , Kanekal S. , O'Brien P. , Baker D. , Crain W. , Mabry D. , Clemmons J.
Published: July 2016

Several energetic particle sensors designed to make measurements in the current decade are described and their technology and capabilities discussed and demonstrated. Most of these instruments are already on orbit or approaching launch. These include the Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometers (MagEIS) and the Relativistic Electron Proton Telescope (REPT) that are flying on the Van Allen Probes, the Fly's Eye Electron Proton Spectrometers (FEEPS) flying on the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, and Dosimeters flying on the AC6 Cubesat mission. We focus mostly on the electron measurement capability of these sensors while providing summary comments of their ion measurement capabilities if they have any.
Microalbuminuria could improve risk stratification in patients with TIA and minor stroke
Authors: Elyas Salim , Shore Angela C. , Kingwell Hayley , Keenan Samantha , Boxall Leigh , Stewart Jane , James Martin A. , Strain William David
Published: July 2016

Objective

Transient ischemic attacks (TIA) and minor strokes are important risk factors for recurrent strokes. Current stroke risk prediction scores such as ABCD2, although widely used, lack optimal sensitivity and specificity. Elevated urinary albumin excretion predicts cardiovascular disease, stroke, and mortality. We explored the role of microalbuminuria (using albumin creatinine ratio (ACR)) in predicting recurrence risk in patients with TIA and minor stroke.

Methods

Urinary ACR was measured on a spot sample in 150 patients attending a daily stroke clinic with TIA or minor stroke. Patients were followed up at day 7, 30, and 90 to determine recurrent stroke, cardiovascular events, or death. Eligible patients had a carotid ultrasound Doppler investigation. High‐risk patients were defined as those who had an event within 90 days or had >50% internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis.

Results

Fourteen (9.8%) recurrent events were reported by day 90 including two deaths. Fifteen patients had severe ICA stenosis. In total, 26 patients were identified as high risk. These patients had a higher frequency of previous stroke or hypercholesterolemia compared to low‐risk patients (P = 0.04). ACR was higher in high‐risk patients (3.4 [95% CI 2.2–5.2] vs. 1.7 [1.5–2.1] mg/mmol, P = 0.004), independent of age, sex, blood pressure, diabetes, and previous stroke. An ACR greater than 1.5 mg/mmol predicted high‐risk patients (Cox proportional hazard ratio 3.5 (95% CI 1.3–9.5, P = 0.01).

Interpretation

After TIA or minor stroke, a higher ACR predicted recurrent events and significant ICA stenosis. Incorporation of urinary ACR from a spot sample in the acute setting could improve risk stratification in patients with TIA and minor stroke.
Delays in postremission chemotherapy for Philadelphia chromosome negative acute lymphoblastic leukemia are associated with inferior outcomes in patients who undergo allogeneic transplant: An analysis from ECOG 2993/MRC UK ALLXII
Authors: Kumar Anita J. , Gimotty Phyllis A. , Gelfand Joel , Buck Georgina , Rowe Jacob M. , Goldstone Anthony H. , Fielding Adele , Marks David I. , Litzow Mark , Paietta Elisabeth , Lazarus Hillard M. , Tallman Martin S. , Luger Selina M. , Loren Alison W.
Published: July 2016

Adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have a poorer prognosis than children due to a high risk of relapse. One explanation may be variable adherence to dose‐intense chemotherapy. However, little is known about risk factors for delays in therapy and their impact on survival. We conducted an analysis of ECOG 2993/UKALLXII trial to study delays in postremission chemotherapy in adults with newly diagnosed ALL. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for a very long delay (VLD, >4 weeks) in start of intensification therapy. Cox regression was used to evaluate the impact of delays on overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS). We evaluated 1076 Philadelphia chromosome negative (Ph−) patients who completed induction chemotherapy, achieved complete remission, and started intensification. Factors independently associated with VLD included duration of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] = 1.2, P < 0.001) during Phase I; thrombocytopenia during Phase I (OR = 1.16, P = 0.004) or Phase II (OR 1.13, P = 0.001); chemotherapy dose reductions during Induction Phase I (OR = 1.72, P < 0.014); female sex (OR = 1.53, P = 0.010); Black (OR = 3.24, P = 0.003) and Asian (OR = 2.26, P = 0.021) race; and increasing age (OR = 1.31, P < 0.001). In multivariate Cox regression, patients who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplant (alloHCT) had significantly worse OS (HR 1.4, P = 0.03) and EFS (HR 1.4, P = 0.02) after experiencing a VLD compared to alloHCT patients who experienced ≤4 weeks delay. Specific populations (female, older, Black, and Asian patients) were more likely to experience delays in chemotherapy, as were those with significant toxicity during induction. VLDs in therapy negatively affected outcomes in patients undergoing allografting. Am. J. Hematol. 91:1107–1112, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patterns of opioid use in sickle cell disease
Authors: Han Jin , Saraf Santosh L. , Zhang Xu , Gowhari Michel , Molokie Robert E. , Hassan Joharah , Alhandalous Chaher , Jain Shivi , Younge Jewel , Abbasi Taimur , Machado Roberto F. , Gordeuk Victor R.
Published: July 2016

Pain, the hallmark complication of sickle cell disease (SCD), is largely managed with opioid analgesics in the United States, but comprehensive data regarding the long‐term use of opioids in this patient population is lacking. The pain medication prescription records from a cohort of 203 SCD patients were analyzed. Twenty‐five percent were not prescribed opioid medications while 47% took only short‐acting opioids, 1% took only long‐acting opioids, and 27% took a combination of short‐acting and long‐acting opioids. The median (interquartile range) daily opioid dose was 6.1 mg (1.7–26.3 mg) of oral morphine equivalents, which is lower than the published opioid use among patients with other pain syndromes. The dose of opioids correlated with the number of admissions due to vaso‐occlusive crisis (VOC) (r = 0.53, P < 0.001). When the patients were grouped into quartiles based on daily dose opioid use, a logistic regression model showed that history of avascular necrosis (AVN) (OR: 2.87, 95% CI: 1.37–6.02, P = 0.005), 25‐OHD levels (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38–0.93, P = 0.024) and total bilirubin concentration (OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.42–0.99, P = 0.043) were independently associated with opioid use quartiles. In conclusion, doses and types of opioid medications used by adult SCD patients vary widely. Our findings implicate AVN and lower vitamin D levels as factors associated with higher opioid use. They also suggest an association of higher bilirubin levels, possibly suggesting higher hemolytic rate, with lower opioid use. Am. J. Hematol. 91:1102–1106, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Co3O4 Nanoparticles Supported on Mesoporous Carbon for Selective Transfer Hydrogenation of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes
Authors: Wang Guang‐Hui , Deng Xiaohui , Gu Dong , Chen Kun , Tüysüz Harun , Spliethoff Bernd , Bongard Hans‐Josef , Weidenthaler Claudia , Schmidt Wolfgang , Schüth Ferdi
Published: July 2016

A simple and scalable method for synthesizing Co3O4 nanoparticles supported on the framework of mesoporous carbon (MC) was developed. Benefiting from an ion‐exchange process during the preparation, the cobalt precursor is introduced into a mesostructured polymer framework that results in Co3O4 nanoparticles (ca. 3 nm) supported on MC (Co3O4/MC) with narrow particle size distribution and homogeneous dispersion after simple reduction/pyrolysis and mild oxidation steps. The as‐obtained Co3O4/MC is a highly efficient catalyst for transfer hydrogenation of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes. Selectivities towards unsaturated alcohols are always higher than 95 % at full conversion. In addition, the Co3O4/MC shows high stability under the reaction conditions, it can be recycled at least six times without loss of activity.
Lung Cancer: EGFR Inhibitors with Low Nanomolar Activity against a Therapy‐Resistant L858R/T790M/C797S Mutant
Authors: Günther Marcel , Juchum Michael , Kelter Gerhard , Fiebig Heiner , Laufer Stefan
Published: July 2016

The treatment of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors is made challenging by acquired resistance caused by somatic mutations. Third‐generation EGFR inhibitors have been designed to overcome resistance through covalent binding to the Cys 797 residue of the enzyme, and these inhibitors are effective against most clinically relevant EGFR mutants. However, the high dependence of these recent EGFR inhibitors on this particular interaction means that additional mutation of Cys 797 results in poor inhibitory activity, which leads to tumor relapse in initially responding patients. A new generation of irreversible and reversible mutant EGFR inhibitors was developed with strong noncovalent binding properties, and these compounds show high inhibitory activities against the cysteine‐mutated L858R/T790M/C797S EGFR.
Didehydroaspartate Modification in Methyl‐Coenzyme M Reductase Catalyzing Methane Formation
Authors: Wagner Tristan , Kahnt Jörg , Ermler Ulrich , Shima Seigo
Published: July 2016

All methanogenic and methanotrophic archaea known to date contain methyl‐coenzyme M reductase (MCR) that catalyzes the reversible reduction of methyl‐coenzyme M to methane. This enzyme contains the nickel porphinoid F430 as a prosthetic group and, highly conserved, a thioglycine and four methylated amino acid residues near the active site. We describe herein the presence of a novel post‐translationally modified amino acid, didehydroaspartate, adjacent to the thioglycine as revealed by mass spectrometry and high‐resolution X‐ray crystallography. Upon chemical reduction, the didehydroaspartate residue was converted into aspartate. Didehydroaspartate was found in MCR I and II from Methanothermobacter marburgensis and in MCR of phylogenetically distantly related Methanosarcina barkeri but not in MCR I and II of Methanothermobacter wolfeii, which indicates that didehydroaspartate is dispensable but might have a role in fine‐tuning the active site to increase the catalytic efficiency.
Construction of Hexahydrophenanthrenes By Rhodium(I)‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerization of Benzylallene‐Substituted Internal Alkynes through C−H Activation
Authors: Kawaguchi Yasuaki , Yasuda Shigeo , Mukai Chisato
Published: July 2016

The treatment of benzylallene‐substituted internal alkynes with [RhCl(CO)2]2 effects a novel cycloisomerization by C(sp2)−H bond activation to produce hexahydrophenanthrene derivatives. The reaction likely proceeds through consecutive formation of a rhodabicyclo[4.3.0] intermediate, σ‐bond metathesis between the C(sp2)−H bond on the benzene ring and the C(sp2)−RhIII bond, and isomerization between three σ‐, π‐, and σ‐allylrhodium(III) species, which was proposed based on experiments with deuterated substrates.
Chlorella species as hosts for genetic engineering and expression of heterologous proteins: Progress, challenge and perspective
Authors: Yang Bo , Liu Jin , Jiang Yue , Chen Feng
Published: July 2016

The species of Chlorella represent a highly specialized group of green microalgae that can produce high levels of protein. Many Chlorella strains can grow rapidly and achieve high cell density under controlled conditions and are thus considered to be promising protein sources. Many advances in the genetic engineering of Chlorella have occurred in recent years, with significant developments in successful expression of heterologous proteins for various applications. Nevertheless, a lot of obstacles remain to be addressed, and a sophisticated and stable Chlorella expression system has yet to emerge. This review provides a brief summary of current knowledge on Chlorella and an overview of recent progress in the genetic engineering of Chlorella, and highlights the advances in the development of a genetic toolbox of Chlorella for heterologous protein expression. Research directions to further exploit the Chlorella expression system with respect to both challenges and perspectives are also discussed. This paper serves as a comprehensive literature review for the Chlorella community and will provide valuable insights into future exploration of Chlorella as a promising host for heterologous protein expression.
Candidate microRNAs as biomarkers of thyroid carcinoma: a systematic review, meta‐analysis, and experimental validation
Authors: Hu Yiren , Wang Hui , Chen Ende , Xu Zhifeng , Chen Bi , Lu Guowen
Published: July 2016

Thyroid cancer is one of the most common carcinomas of the endocrine system with an increasing incidence. A growing number of studies have focused on the diagnostic and prognostic values of dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in thyroid carcinoma. However, differences in the measurement platforms, variations in lab protocols, and small sample sizes can make gene profiling data incomparable. A meta‐review of the published studies that compared miRNA expression data of thyroid carcinoma and paired normal tissues was performed to identify potential miRNA biomarkers of thyroid carcinoma with the vote‐counting strategy. Two hundred and thirty‐six aberrantly expressed miRNAs were reported in 19 microRNA expression profiling studies. Among them, 138 miRNAs were reported in at least two studies. We also provided a meta‐signature of differentially expressed miRNAs between individual histological types of thyroid carcinoma and normal tissues. The experimental validation with qRT‐PCR analysis verified that the profiles identified with the meta‐review approach could effectively discriminate papillary thyroid carcinoma tissues from paired noncancer tissues. The meta‐review of miRNA expression profiling studies of thyroid carcinoma would provide information on candidate miRNAs that could potentially be used as biomarkers in thyroid carcinoma.
Evaluation of in vivo antitumor effects of low‐frequency ultrasound‐mediated miRNA‐133a microbubble delivery in breast cancer
Authors: Ji Yanlei , Han Zhen , Shao Limei , Zhao Yuehuan
Published: July 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as a novel class of small noncoding RNAs, have been identified as important transcriptional and posttranscriptional inhibitors of gene expression. Ultrasound‐targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) is a noninvasive method for microRNA delivery. We aimed to investigate the effect of UTMD of miR‐133a on breast cancer treatment. It has been reported that miRNA‐133a is involved in various cancers. miR‐133a was lowly expressed in breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cell lines MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231. The miR‐133a expression was significantly upregulated under exogenous miRNA‐133a treatment in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells analyzed by qRT‐PCR. Exogenous miR‐133a promoted the cell proliferation as determined by diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) staining. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression and Akt phosphorylation were significantly suppressed after miR‐133a transfection by western blot detection. We prepared the miR‐133a‐microbubble and injected it into breast cancer xenografts. The miR‐133a‐microbubble injection prolonged miR‐133a circulatory time by detecting the amount of miRNA‐133a in the plasma. No significant toxicity was observed on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels at liver and albumin, blood urea nitrogen, or creatine kinase levels at kidney after miR‐133a‐microbubble injection. The tumor size of miR‐133a‐microbubble‐injected mice was smaller than that of the control group. Furthermore, the delivery efficiency of miR‐133a with low frequency was higher than that with common frequency. miR‐133a suppressed cell proliferation by suppressing the expression of EGFR and the phosphorylation of Akt. UTMD of miR‐133a inhibited the tumor growth and improved the survival rate in breast cancer mice. Our study provides new evidence that UTMD of miRNA is a promising platform for breast cancer therapy.
In situ Integration of a Metallic 1T‐MoS2/CdS Heterostructure as a Means to Promote Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Qin , Shang Qichao , Khalil Adnan , Fang Qi , Chen Shuangming , He Qun , Xiang Ting , Liu Daobin , Zhang Qun , Luo Yi , Song Li
Published: July 2016

The replacement of expensive noble‐metals cocatalysts with inexpensive, earth‐abundant, metallic nonmetal materials in most semiconductor‐based photocatalytic systems is highly desirable. Herein, we report the fabrication of stable 1T‐MoS2 slabs in situ grown on CdS nanorods (namely, 1T‐MoS2@CdS) by using a solvothermal method. As demonstrated by ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy, in combination with steady‐state and time‐resolved photoluminescence, the synergistic effects resulting from formation of the intimate nanojunction between the interfaces and effective electron transport in the metallic phase of 1T‐MoS2 largely contribute to boosting the photocatalytic activity of CdS. Notably, the heterostructure with an optimum loading of 0.2 wt % 1T‐MoS2 exhibits an almost 39‐fold enhancement in the photocatalytic activity relative to that exhibited by bare CdS. This work represents a step towards the in situ realization of a 1T‐phase MoS2‐based heterostructure as a promising cocatalyst with high performance and low cost.
Brønsted or Lewis Acid Initiated Multicomponent Cascade Reaction: Diastereoselective Synthesis of Imidazolidinyl Spirooxindole Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Jun‐Qi , Qi Zheng‐Hang , Yin Shao‐Jie , Li Hai‐Yan , Wang Yong , Wang Xing‐Wang
Published: July 2016

One peculiar type of aza‐hetero‐imidazolidinyl spirooxindole derivatives was efficiently constructed by the three‐component [2+2+1] cascade reaction of 1,4‐oxazepines with diazo‐oxindoles. Iron(II) trifluoromethanesulfonate [Fe(OTf)2] or p‐toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (p‐TsOH⋅H2O) proved to be optimal catalysts for this transformation, providing the desired products in high yields (up to 94 %) with excellent diastereoselectivity (up to 99:1 dr). Experimental studies showed that the reaction rate of Brønsted acid catalysis was faster than that of Lewis acids. Furthermore, the mechanism was theoretically investigated for Brønsted acid as the catalyst and a reaction pathway was proposed. DFT calculations suggested that the diazo‐oxindole can act as a 1,3‐dipole to add to a C=N double bond of 1,4‐oxazepine, which forms a 4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole intermediate. Subsequently, the releasing of N2 is the rate‐limiting step of the whole catalytic cycle.
Suppression of the Aromatic Cycle in Methanol‐to‐Olefins Reaction over ZSM‐5 by Post‐Synthetic Modification Using Calcium
Authors: Yarulina Irina , Bailleul Simon , Pustovarenko Alexey , Martinez Javier Ruiz , Wispelaere Kristof De , Hajek Julianna , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Houben Klaartje , Baldus Marc , Van Speybroeck Veronique , Kapteijn Freek , Gascon Jorge
Published: July 2016

Incorporation of Ca in ZSM‐5 results in a twofold increase of propylene selectivity (53 %), a total light‐olefin selectivity of 90 %, and a nine times longer catalyst lifetime (throughput 792 gMeOH gcatalyst−1) in the methanol‐to‐olefins (MTO) reaction. Analysis of the product distribution and theoretical calculations reveal that post‐synthetic modification with Ca2+ leads to the formation of CaOCaOH+ that strongly weaken the acid strength of the zeolite. As a result, the rate of hydride transfer and oligomerization reactions on these sites is greatly reduced, resulting in the suppression of the aromatic cycle. Our results further highlight the importance of acid strength on product selectivity and zeolite lifetime in MTO chemistry.
Catalyst Decomposition during Olefin Metathesis Yields Isomerization‐Active Ruthenium Nanoparticles
Authors: Higman Carolyn S. , Lanterna Anabel E. , Marin M. Luisa , Scaiano Juan C. , Fogg Deryn E.
Published: July 2016

The second‐generation Grubbs catalyst, RuCl2(H2IMes)(PCy3) (=CHPh) [GII; H2IMes=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐4,5‐dihydroimidazol‐2‐ylidene, Cy=cyclohexyl], is shown to decompose during olefin metathesis to generate Ru nanoparticles (RuNPs). These RuNPs appear to contribute significantly to competing isomerization during metathesis. Larger, partially oxidized RuNPs are also observed in commercial GII, but these exhibit modest isomerization activity. Removal of RuNPs from the precatalyst does not prevent isomerization, because new, more reactive NPs are generated by catalyst decomposition during metathesis.
Impact of cordon‐bleu expression on actin cytoskeleton architecture and dynamics
Authors: Grega‐Larson Nathan E. , Crawley Scott W. , Tyska Matthew J.
Published: July 2016

Cordon‐bleu (COBL) is a multifunctional WASP‐Homology 2 (WH2) domain‐containing protein implicated in a wide variety of cellular functions ranging from dendritic arborization in neurons to the assembly of microvilli on the surface of transporting epithelial cells. In vitro biochemical studies suggest that COBL is capable of nucleating and severing actin filaments, among other activities. How the multiple activities of COBL observed in vitro contribute to its function in cells remains unclear. Here, we used live imaging to evaluate the impact of COBL expression on the actin cytoskeleton in cultured cells. We found that COBL induces the formation of dynamic linear actin structures throughout the cytosol. We also found that stabilizing these dynamic structures with the parallel actin‐bundling protein espin slows down their turnover and enables the robust formation of self‐supported protrusions on the dorsal cell surface. Super‐resolution imaging revealed a global remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton in cells expressing these two factors. Taken together, these results provide insight as to how COBL contributes to the assembly of actin‐based structures such as epithelial microvilli. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrocatalytic Nanostructured Ferric Tannates: Characterization and Application of a Polyphenol Nanosensor
Authors: Magro Massimiliano , Bonaiuto Emanuela , Baratella Davide , de Almeida Roger Jessica , Jakubec Petr , Corraducci Vittorino , Tuček Jiri , Malina Ondrej , Zbořil Radek , Vianello Fabio
Published: July 2016

A novel core–shell hybrid nanomaterial composed of peculiar maghemite nanoparticles (surface‐active maghemite nanoparticles (SAMNs)) as the core and tannic acid (TA) as the shell was developed by self‐assembly of ferric tannates onto the surface of SAMNs by simple incubation in water. The hybrid nanomaterial (SAMN@TA) was characterized by using UV/Vis, FTIR, and Mössbauer spectroscopies, magnetization measurements, and X‐ray powder diffraction, which provide evidence of a drastic reorganization of the iron oxide surface upon reaction with TA and the formation of an outer shell that consists of a cross‐linked network of ferric tannates. According to a Langmuir isotherm analysis, SAMN@TA offers one of most stable iron complexes of TA reported in the literature to date. Moreover, SAMN@TA was characterized by using electrical impedance spectroscopy, voltammetry, and chronoamperometry. The nanostructured ferric tannate interface showed improved conductivity and selective electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of polyphenols. Finally, a carbon‐paste electrode modified with SAMN@TA was used for the determination of polyphenols in blueberry extracts by square‐wave voltammetry.
Associations Between the KIAA0319 Dyslexia Susceptibility Gene Variants, Antenatal Maternal Stress, and Reading Ability in a Longitudinal Birth Cohort
Authors: D'Souza Stephanie , Backhouse‐Smith Amelia , Thompson John M. D. , Slykerman Rebecca , Marlow Gareth , Wall Clare , Murphy Rinki , Ferguson Lynnette R. , Mitchell Edwin A. , Waldie Karen E.
Published: July 2016

Maternal stress during pregnancy has been associated with detrimental cognitive developmental outcomes in offspring. This study investigated whether antenatal maternal perceived stress and variants of the rs12193738 and rs2179515 polymorphisms on the KIAA0319 gene interact to affect reading ability and full‐scale IQ (FSIQ) in members of the longitudinal Auckland Birthweight Collaborative study. Antenatal maternal stress was measured at birth, and reading ability was assessed at ages 7 and 16. Reading data were available for 500 participants at age 7 and 479 participants at age 16. FSIQ was measured at ages 7 and 11. At age 11, DNA samples were collected. Analyses of covariance revealed that individuals with the TT genotype of the rs12193738 polymorphism exposed to high maternal stress during pregnancy possessed significantly poorer reading ability (as measured by Woodcock‐Johnson Word Identification standard scores) during adolescence compared with TT carriers exposed to low maternal stress. TT carriers of the rs12193738 SNP also obtained lower IQ scores at age 7 than C allele carriers. These findings suggest that the KIAA0319 gene is associated with both reading ability and general cognition, but in different ways. The effect on IQ appears to occur earlier in development and is transient, whereas the effect of reading ability occurs later and is moderated by antenatal maternal stress. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.