bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circumventing rain‐related errors in scatterometer wind observations
Authors: Kilpatrick Thomas J. , Xie Shang‐Ping
Published: August 2016

Satellite scatterometer observations of surface winds over the global oceans are critical for climate research and applications like weather forecasting. However, rain‐related errors remain an important limitation, largely precluding satellite study of winds in rainy areas. Here we utilize a novel technique to compute divergence and curl from satellite observations of surface winds and surface wind stress in rainy areas. This technique circumvents rain‐related errors by computing line integrals around rainy patches, using valid wind vector observations that border the rainy patches. The area‐averaged divergence and wind stress curl inside each rainy patch are recovered via the divergence and curl theorems. We process the 10 year Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) data set and show that the line‐integral method brings the QuikSCAT winds into better agreement with an atmospheric reanalysis, largely removing both the “divergence bias” and “anticyclonic curl bias” in rainy areas noted in previous studies. The corrected QuikSCAT wind stress curl reduces the North Pacific midlatitude Sverdrup transport by 20–30%. We test several methods of computing divergence and curl on winds from an atmospheric model simulation and show that the line‐integral method has the smallest errors. We anticipate that scatterometer winds processed with the line‐integral method will improve ocean model simulations and help illuminate the coupling between atmospheric convection and circulation.
Sediment dynamics in paired High Arctic lakes revealed from high‐resolution swath bathymetry and acoustic stratigraphy surveys
Authors: Normandeau A. , Lamoureux S. F. , Lajeunesse P. , Francus P.
Published: August 2016

High Arctic lakes are commonly used for paleoclimatic reconstructions because they are particularly sensitive to climate variability. However, the processes leading to sediment deposition and distribution in these lakes are often poorly understood. Here for the first time in the Canadian High Arctic, we present original data resulting from swath bathymetry and subbottom surveys carried out on two lakes at Cape Bounty, Melville Island. The results reveal the dynamic nature of the lakes, in which mass movement deposits and bedforms on the deltas reflect frequent slope instabilities and hyperpycnal flow activity. The analysis of the mass movement deposits reveals that small blocky debris flows/avalanches, debris flows, and a slide occurred during the Holocene. These mass movements are believed to have been triggered by earthquakes and potentially by permafrost thawing along the shoreline. Altogether, these mass movement deposits cover more than 30% of the lake floors. Additionally, the river deltas on both lakes were mapped and reveal the presence of several gullies and bedforms. The presence of gullies along the delta front indicates that hyperpycnal flows generated at the river mouth can transport sediment in different trajectories downslope, resulting in a different sediment accumulation pattern and record. The dynamic nature of these two lakes suggests that further analysis on sediment transport and distribution within Arctic lakes is required in order to improve paleoclimatic reconstructions.
The role of ice stream dynamics in deglaciation
Authors: Robel Alexander A. , Tziperman Eli
Published: August 2016

Since the mid‐Pleistocene transition, deglaciation has occurred only after ice sheets have grown large while experiencing several precession and obliquity cycles, indicating that large ice sheets are more sensitive to Milankovitch forcing than small ice sheets are. Observations and model simulations suggest that the development of ice streams in the Laurentide Ice Sheet played an as yet unknown role in deglaciations. In this study, we propose a mechanism by which ice streams may enhance deglaciation and render large ice sheets more sensitive to Milankovitch forcing. We use an idealized configuration of the Parallel Ice Sheet Model that permits the formation of ice streams. When the ice sheet is large and ice streams are sufficiently developed, an upward shift in equilibrium line altitude, commensurate with Milankovitch forcing, results in rapid deglaciation, while the same shift applied to an ice sheet without fully formed ice streams results in continued ice sheet growth or slower deglaciation. Rapid deglaciation in ice sheets with significant streaming behavior is caused by ice stream acceleration and the attendant enhancement of calving and surface melting at low elevations. Ice stream acceleration is ultimately the result of steepening of the ice surface and increased driving stresses in ice stream onset zones, which come about due to the dependence of surface mass balance on elevation. These ice sheet simulations match the broad features of geomorphological observations and add ice stream dynamics that are missing from previous model studies of deglaciation.
Influence of Structural Defects on the Electrical Properties of Carbon Nanotubes and Their Polymer Composites
Authors: Domínguez‐Rodríguez G. , Tapia A. , Seidel G. D. , Avilés F.
Published: August 2016

The influence of carbon nanotube (CNT) structural damage (CNTSD) on the axial and transverse electrical conductivities of CNT/polymer composites is explored through a hierarchical multiscale modeling strategy. The composite cylinder and Mori–Tanaka's methods are used to model effective representative volume elements of CNT/polymer composites containing different fractions of defects. The axial and transverse CNT conductivities are adversely influenced by CNTSD, with the decrease being more pronounced for small radius CNTs. The predictions indicate that an 8% fraction of CNTSD decreases the axial and transverse conductivities of composites containing randomly oriented CNTs by 25–30%. Similar reductions in conductivity are found for both random and clustered damage.
2017 Clinical trials update in new treatments of β‐thalassemia
Authors: Makis Alexandros , Hatzimichael Eleftheria , Papassotiriou Ioannis , Voskaridou Ersi
Published: August 2016

The underlying basis of β‐thalassemia pathology is the diminished β‐globin synthesis leading to α‐globin accumulation and premature apoptotic destruction of erythroblasts, causing oxidative stress‐induced ineffective erythropoiesis, bone marrow hyperplasia, splenomegaly, and increased intestinal iron absorption with progressive iron overload. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this disease led to the recognition of new targets with potential therapeutic utility. Agents such as JAK2 inhibitors and TGF‐β ligand traps that reduce the ineffective erythropoiesis process are already being tested in clinical trials with promising results. Other agents that aim to reduce oxidative stress (activators of Foxo3, HRI‐eIF2aP, Prx2, Hsp70, and PK anti‐oxidant systems and inhibitors of HO‐1) and to decrease iron overload (hepcidin agonists, erythroferrone inhibitors and exogenous transferrin) are also under experimental investigation. Significant progress has also been made in the area of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with several ongoing clinical trials examining new condition regimens as well as different donor selection and stem cell source options. Gene therapy has reached a critical point and phase 1 clinical trials have recently been launched to examine the effectiveness and especially long term safety. Epigenetic manipulation and genomic editing of the γ‐ or β‐globin gene are novel and promising experimental gene therapy approaches for β‐thalassemia giving hope for cure for this chronic disease. This review outlines the key points of the molecular mechanisms underlying β‐thalassemia in relation to the development of new therapies and an update is given both at the pre‐clinical and clinical level. Am. J. Hematol. 91:1135–1145, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validity of body adiposity index in predicting body fat in Brazilians adults
Authors: Segheto Wellington , Coelho France Araújo , Cristina Guimarães da Silva Danielle , Hallal Pedro Curi , Marins João Carlos Bouzas , Ribeiro Andreia Queiroz , Pessoa Milene Cristine , Morais Sílvia Helena O. , Longo Giana Zarbato
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare various methods of assessing body compositions with body adiposity index (BAI) and to identify the validity of BAI as a predictor of body fat in Brazilian adults.

Methods

This study included 706 individuals (average age 37.3 years, SD = 12.1). Anthropometric data included percent body fat obtained by skinfold thicknesses, bioelectrical impedance analysis and DXA. Body mass index (BMI), waist/hip ratio, and BAI were calculated. The correlation between variables was assessed by Pearson's correlation coefficient, and the Bland–Altman and Kaplan Meier graphic approaches were used to verify the agreement between BAI and DXA.

Results

There was a strong correlation between BAI and BMI (r = 0.84 in men and r = 0.86 in women, P < .001), waist circumference (r = 0.77 in men and r = 0.75 in women, P < .001) percent fat by skinfold thicknesses (r = 0.71 in men and r = 0.71 in women, P < .001) and by DXA (r = 0.72 in men and r = 0.78 in women, P < .001). The Bland–Altman approach showed an overestimation of BAI in males and an underestimation in women using DXA as the reference method. The agreement between BAI and DXA through the Kaplan‐Meier analysis was 41%.

Conclusions

It was found that BAI does not replace other measurements of body fat, but compared with more complex methods can be an alternative for estimating the body fat in the absence of these methods.
Benzodithiophene‐Based Polymers Containing Alkylthiophenyl Side Chains with Lowered HOMO Energy Levels for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Fan Meijie , Du Zhengkun , Chen Weiye , Liu Deyu , Wen Shuguang , Sun Mingliang , Yang Renqiang
Published: August 2016

In this paper, a novel donor based on alkylthiophenyl side‐chained benzodithiophene (BDT) (M1) was first designed and synthesized to construct a series of conjugated polymers (P1, P2, P3) used in polymer solar cells (PSCs). P1, P2, and P3 were prepared by copolymerizing M1 with 4,7‐di(4‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐2‐thienyl)‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole (DTBT), quinoxaline, and diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP), respectively. The optical electrochemical and photovoltaic properties of these polymers were investigated. Alkylthiophenyl substitution on the BDT building block is favorable for the low‐lying highest occupied orbital (HOMO) level of polymers. The HOMO of these copolymers is clearly lowered to −5.49 eV, −5.34 eV, and −5.50 eV, respectively. Compared with reference polymers, our polymers show lowered HOMO energy levels (by 0.14 eV at least). This is very helpful to enhance the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of the devices. Further, P2:PC61BM exhibited an optimized power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 4.28 %, which is clearly higher than that of P1 (1.48 %) and P3 (1.9 %).
Palladium‐Catalyzed Diverse mono‐Acyloxylation of 5‐Alkyl‐4‐aryl‐thiazole‐2‐carboxylates
Authors: Yu Kun‐Kun , Guo Ying , Hu Ya‐Hua , Xu Zhi , Liu Hong‐Wei , Liao Dao‐Hua , Ji Ya‐Fei
Published: August 2016

The palladium‐catalyzed oxidative acyloxylation of 5‐alkyl‐4‐aryl‐thiazole‐2‐carboxylates via a direct ortho‐Csp2−H bond activation has been described with a newly reported radical mechanism. Based on the late‐stage functionalization of the highly substituted thiazoles, the reaction delivered multifarious valuable acyloxylated products with moderate‐to‐excellent yields. The transformation affords highly functionalized substrates, has broad scope of carboxylic acid coupling partners, excellent site‐selectivity, rapid reaction rates, simple operation and mild conditions. The diverse acyloxylation reaction allows rapid access to a plethora of mono‐acyloxylated products from the functionalized thiazoles.
Catalyst‐Free Synthesis of 3‐Aryl‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐oxindole Derivatives by Using Water as the Solvent: Experimental and DFT Studies
Authors: Kumar Naveen , Kaur Jasneet , Kumar Akshay , Islam Nasarul , Chimni Swapandeep Singh
Published: August 2016

A highly efficient catalyst‐free Friedel–Crafts reaction of isatin with phenol by using water as the solvent provided 3‐hydroxy‐2‐oxindole derivatives in excellent yields. DFT studies on various model systems suggested that the catalytic role of water involved activation of the reactant through hydrogen‐bonding interactions.
J(Si,H) Coupling Constants in Nonclassical Transition‐Metal Silane Complexes
Authors: Scherer Wolfgang , Meixner Petra , Batke Kilian , Barquera‐Lozada José E. , Ruhland Klaus , Fischer Andreas , Eickerling Georg , Eichele Klaus
Published: August 2016

We will outline that the sign and magnitude of J(Si,H) coupling constants provide a highly sensitive tool to measure the extent of Si−H bond activation in nonclassical silane complexes. Up to now, this structure–property relationship was obscured by erroneous J(Si,H) sign determinations in the literature. These new findings also help to identify the salient control parameters of the Si−H bond activation process in nonclassical silane complexes.
Elucidating the Stereochemistry of Enzymatic Benzylsuccinate Synthesis with Chirally Labeled Toluene
Authors: Seyhan Deniz , Friedrich Peter , Szaleniec Maciej , Hilberg Markus , Buckel Wolfgang , Golding Bernard T. , Heider Johann
Published: August 2016

Benzylsuccinate synthase is a glycyl radical enzyme that initiates anaerobic toluene metabolism by adding fumarate to the methyl group of toluene to yield (R)‐benzylsuccinate. To investigate whether the reaction occurs with retention or inversion of configuration at the methyl group of toluene, we synthesized both enantiomers of chiral toluene with all three H isotopes in their methyl groups. The chiral toluenes were converted into benzylsuccinates preferentially containing 2H and 3H at their benzylic C atoms, owing to a kinetic isotope effect favoring hydrogen abstraction from the methyl groups. The configuration of the products was analyzed by enzymatic CoA‐thioester synthesis and stereospecific oxidation using enzymes involved in benzylsuccinate degradation. Assessment of the configurations of the benzylsuccinate isomers based on loss or retention of tritium showed that inversion of configuration at the methyl group occurs when the chiral toluenes react with fumarate.
Effect of copper sulfate pentahydrate on the structure and properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)/graphene oxide composite films
Authors: Liu Qian , Ge Xiang , Xiang Aimin , Tian Huafeng
Published: August 2016

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/graphene oxide (GO)/copper sulfate pentahydrate (CuSO4·5H2O) composite films were prepared by the solution casting method, and the effect of CuSO4·5H2O on the structure and properties of the PVA/GO composites was investigated. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis proved the crosslinking interaction between CuSO4·5H2O and the OH group of PVA. The crystallinity of the composite films increased first and then decreased. For the composite films, the tensile strength, Young's modulus, and yield stress values improved with increasing CuSO4·5H2O, whereas the elongation at break decreased compared with that of the neat PVA/GO composite film. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) patterns of the PVA/GO/CuSO4·5H2O composite films showed that the thermal stability decreased; this was consistent with the TGA–FTIR analysis. A remarkable improvement in the oxygen‐barrier properties was achieved. The oxygen permeability coefficient was reduced by 60% compared to that of the neat PVA/GO composite film. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44135.
Process–structure–property relationship of melt spun poly(lactic acid) fibers produced in the spunbond process
Authors: Shim Eunkyoung , Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Shiffler Don
Published: August 2016

We report on the process–structure–property relationships for Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) filaments produced through the spunbond process. The influence of spinning speed, polymer throughput, and draw ratio on crystallinity and birefringence of fibers were evaluated. We established that increasing spinning speed increases crystallinity and birefringence of fibers. We also investigate the role of fiber structures on fiber tensile properties—breaking tensile strength, strain at break, initial modulus, and natural draw ratio. An increase in spinning speed leads to a higher breaking tensile strength, higher initial modulus and lower strain at break. We have shown an almost linear relationship between breaking tensile strength of PLA fibers and birefringence. This indicates that improved tensile properties at high spinning speeds can be attributed to enhanced molecular orientation. The dependency of fiber breaking tensile strength and strain at break on spun orientation were explained with natural draw ratio, as a measure of spun orientation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44225.
Fabrication of thermally expandable core–shell microcapsules using organic and inorganic stabilizers and their application
Authors: Jeoung Sun Kyoung , Han In Soo , Jung Yung Jun , Hong Sanghyun , Shim Sang Eun , Hwang Ye Jin , Lee Pyoung‐Chan , Ha Jin Uk
Published: August 2016

Thermally expandable core–shell microcapsules (TEM) were fabricated with an organic steric stabilizer and an inorganic Pickering emulsifier. In order to fabricate a TEM, acrylonitrile (AN) and metacrylonitrile (MAN) were used as monomers. Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) were used as the inorganic Pickering emulsifier and the organic stabilizer, respectively. The liquid hydrocarbon content in the core, and the thermal and expansion properties, of TEMs with two different emulsifiers were compared. The mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP) foams containing TEMs prepared with two types of stabilizers were analyzed. The TEMs polymerized with PVP showed a finer expanded cell, while those fabricated with HNTs resulted in a larger expanded cell in the PP matrix. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44247.
Beyond the known functions of the CCR4‐NOT complex in gene expression regulatory mechanisms
Authors: Ukleja Marta , Valpuesta José María , Dziembowski Andrzej , Cuellar Jorge
Published: August 2016

Large protein assemblies are usually the effectors of major cellular processes. The intricate cell homeostasis network is divided into numerous interconnected pathways, each controlled by a set of protein machines. One of these master regulators is the CCR4‐NOT complex, which ultimately controls protein expression levels. This multisubunit complex assembles around a scaffold platform, which enables a wide variety of well‐studied functions from mRNA synthesis to transcript decay, as well as other tasks still being identified. Solving the structure of the entire CCR4‐NOT complex will help to define the distribution of its functions. The recently published three‐dimensional reconstruction of the complex, in combination with the known crystal structures of some of the components, has begun to address this. Methodological improvements in structural biology, especially in cryoelectron microscopy, encourage further structural and protein‐protein interaction studies, which will advance our comprehension of the gene expression machinery.
Chemical Constituents Isolated from Bletilla striata and Their Inhibitory Effects on Nitric Oxide Production in RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Bae Joon Young , Lee Jin Woo , Jin Qinghao , Jang Hari , Lee Dongho , Kim Youngsoo , Hong Jin Tae , Lee Mi Kyeong , Lee Moon Soon , Hwang Bang Yeon
Published: August 2016

Bioassay‐guided fractionation of the MeOH extract of the tubers of Bletilla striata led to the isolation of two new C‐methylated flavan‐3‐ols, bletillanols A (1) and B (2), along with ten known compounds (3 – 12). Their structures were determined by using extensive spectroscopic analysis including 1D‐, 2D‐NMR, and circular dichroism data. All of the isolated compounds were tested for their inhibitory potential on the nitric oxide generation in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells.
An alignment‐independent 3D‐QSAR study on series of hydroxamic acid‐based tumor necrosis factor‐α converting enzyme inhibitors
Authors: Alizadeh Ali Akbar , Hamzeh‐Mivehroud Maryam , Sokouti Babak , Dastmalchi Siavoush
Published: August 2016

Grid‐independent descriptors are extensively used in 3D quantitative structure‐activity relationship (3D‐QSAR) studies. These kinds of descriptors represent the spatial arrangement of the atoms in a 3D fashion. In the current study, we have developed a 3D‐QSAR model for a set of hydroxamic acid‐based derivatives as tumor necrosis factor‐α converting enzyme (TACE) inhibitors. The generated model revealed the importance of some main moieties in the potency of these compounds. Quinolinyl and hydroxamate moieties have the ability to act as hydrogen bond acceptors and hot spot points. On the other hand, phenyl ring can participate in hydrophobic contacts with the receptor. 3D‐QSAR analyses resulted in the partial least squares model of 3 latent variables with internal and external validation yielding q2 values of 0.66 and 0.73, respectively. The result of the current study can be used in designing of potent TACE inhibitors where inhibition of TACE enzyme is required, such as inflammatory diseases, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, autoimmune disorders, allograft rejection, and cancer.
Super Aryl‐Extended Calix[4]pyrroles: Synthesis, Binding Studies, and Attempts To Gain Water Solubility
Authors: Escobar Luis , Aragay Gemma , Ballester Pablo
Published: August 2016

We describe the synthesis of unprecedented calix[4]pyrrole receptors featuring “super aryl extended” (SAE) cavities. We elaborated the aromatic cavity provided by the αααα‐isomer of para‐tetraiodo‐meso‐phenyl calix[4]pyrrole by installing ethynyl‐aryl substituents at its upper rim. We report the binding properties of the prepared SAE‐calix[4]pyrrole tetraester towards pyridyl‐N‐oxides. The binding data revealed the formation of thermodynamically and kinetically highly stable 1:1 complexes. The complexation‐induced chemical shifts indicated the formation of hydrogen bonds and aromatic interactions with the calix‐core adopting the cone conformation. We quantified the additional interactions established between the four terminal aryl groups and the para‐phenyl substituent of 4‐phenyl pyridine N‐oxide to be in the order of 1 kcal mol−1. The complex formation rate was found to be close to the diffusion control suggesting that the free host adopted a 1,3‐alternate conformation. Finally, we attempted to gain water solubility of SAE‐calix[4]pyrroles using derivatives that display four ionizable or charged groups at their upper rims.
4‐Biphenylalanine‐ and 3‐Phenyltyrosine‐Derived Hydroxamic Acids as Inhibitors of the JumonjiC‐Domain‐Containing Histone Demethylase KDM4A
Authors: Morera Ludovica , Roatsch Martin , Fürst Michael C. D. , Hoffmann Inga , Senger Johanna , Hau Mirjam , Franz Henriette , Schüle Roland , Heinrich Markus R. , Jung Manfred
Published: August 2016

Overexpression of the histone lysine demethylase KDM4A, which regulates H3K9 and H3K36 methylation states, has been related to the pathology of several human cancers. We found that a previously reported hydroxamate‐based histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor (SW55) was also able to weakly inhibit this demethylase with an IC50 value of 25.4 μm. Herein we report the synthesis and biochemical evaluations, with two orthogonal in vitro assays, of a series of derivatives of this lead structure. With extensive chemical modifications on the lead structure, also by exploiting the versatility of the radical arylation with aryldiazonium salts, we were able to increase the potency of the derivatives against KDM4A to the low‐micromolar range and, more importantly, to obtain demethylase selectivity with respect to HDACs. Cell‐permeable derivatives clearly showed a demethylase‐inhibition‐dependent antiproliferative effect against HL‐60 human promyelocytic leukemia cells.
Effects of walking in deep venous thrombosis: a new integrated solid and fluid mechanics model
Authors: López Josep M. , Fortuny Gerard , Puigjaner Dolors , Herrero Joan , Marimon Francesc , Garcia‐Bennett Josep
Published: August 2016

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a common disease. Large thrombi in venous vessels cause bad blood circulation and pain; and when a blood clot detaches from a vein wall, it causes an embolism whose consequences range from mild to fatal. Walking is recommended to DVT patients as a therapeutical complement. In this study the mechanical effects of walking on a specific patient of DVT were simulated by means of an unprecedented integration of 3 elements: a real geometry, a biomechanical model of body tissues, and a computational fluid dynamics study. A set of computed tomography images of a patient's leg with a thrombus in the popliteal vein was employed to reconstruct a geometry model. Then a biomechanical model was used to compute the new deformed geometry of the vein as a function of the fiber stretch level of the semimembranosus muscle. Finally, a computational fluid dynamics study was performed to compute the blood flow and the wall shear stress (WSS) at the vein and thrombus walls. Calculations showed that either a lengthening or shortening of the semimembranosus muscle led to a decrease of WSS levels up to 10%. Notwithstanding, changes in blood viscosity properties or blood flow rate may easily have a greater impact in WSS.
A new manufacturable filter design approach for spectral reflectance estimation
Authors: Mahmoudi Nahavandi Alireza , Amani Tehran Mohammad
Published: August 2016

Selection of the best possible filter set among a set of available filters is the obvious method of increasing dimension of camera signals for spectral reflectance reconstruction. There are also methods that are focusing on the filter design regardless of noticing to the constructability of the designed filters. This study shows that direct optimization of physical variables of filter manufacturing technique is more reliable than indirect approach of designing and then physical manufacturing of the designed filters. Direct optimization of the transmission‐controlling primaries in filter manufacturing process would guarantee having the designed filters in reality. Combination of some solvent dyes was used as the spectral transmission matching system for filter manufacturing. As a conventional technique, filters were designed and best possible dye concentrations that match the desired filters were calculated. As an alternative approach, filters were also designed using direct optimization of dyes concentrations. The results showed that direct optimization of dye concentrations exhibits better performance in comparison with the conventional technique. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 42, 316–326, 2017
DCLK1 phosphorylates the microtubule‐associated protein MAP7D1 to promote axon elongation in cortical neurons
Authors: Koizumi Hiroyuki , Fujioka Hiromi , Togashi Kazuya , Thompson James , Yates John R. , Gleeson Joseph G. , Emoto Kazuo
Published: August 2016

Doublecortin‐like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a member of the neuronal microtubule‐associated doublecortin (DCX) family and functions in multiple stages of neural development including radial migration and axon growth of cortical neurons. DCLK1 is suggested to play the roles in part through its protein kinase activity, yet the kinase substrates of DCLK1 remain largely unknown. Here we have identified MAP7D1 (microtubule‐associated protein 7 domain containing 1) as a novel substrate of DCLK1 by using proteomic analysis. MAP7D1 is expressed in developing cortical neurons, and knockdown of MAP7D1 in layer 2/3 cortical neurons results in a significant impairment of callosal axon elongation, but not of radial migration, in corticogenesis. We have further defined the serine 315 (Ser 315) of MAP7D1 as a DCLK1‐induced phosphorylation site and shown that overexpression of a phosphomimetic MAP7D1 mutant in which Ser 315 is substituted with glutamic acid (MAP7D1 S315E), but not wild‐type MAP7D1, fully rescues the axon elongation defects in Dclk1 knockdown neurons. These data demonstrate that DCLK1 phosphorylates MAP7D1 on Ser 315 to facilitate axon elongation of cortical neurons. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 419–437, 2017
Natriuretic peptide levels taken following unplanned admission to a cardiology department predict the duration of hospitalization
Authors: Asphaug Marte , Skadberg Øyvind , Dalen Ingvild , Dickstein Kenneth
Published: August 2016

Aims

Natriuretic peptide (NP) levels are routinely employed as useful diagnostic and prognostic tools in the evaluation of patients with heart failure (HF). As hospitalization is the major consumer of healthcare resources, the prognostic power of admission NPs with regard to the duration of hospitalization deserves further investigation.

Methods and results

We assessed retrospectively the association between NP values sampled shortly following unplanned admission and the duration of hospitalization in 2978 patients admitted to a cardiology department. Duration of hospitalization (hours) and survival were determined by interrogation of the electronic medical records system. Associations with peptide levels were estimated using regression models and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The results demonstrate a significant positive relationship between NP levels and the duration of hospitalization, after adjusting for age (P < 0.001). The median duration of hospitalization for the lowest BNP and NT‐proBNP quintiles were 80 and 97 h, respectively, vs. 224.5 and 236 h for the highest quintiles. Using cut‐off levels of 115 pmol/L for BNP and 390 pmol/L for NT‐proBNP, the peptides have a positive predictive value of 78% and 85% for a stay >4 days. During follow‐up, NP levels were strongly predictive of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusion

The results quantify the strong relationship between NP levels taken following an unplanned admission to a cardiology department and the duration of hospitalization. This information permits improved identification of a patient population likely to require a prolonged hospital stay and consume more healthcare resources. Such patients may require a more aggressive diagnostic, treatment, and management strategy.
Aroylphosphanes: Base‐Free Synthesis and Their Coordination Chemistry with Platinum‐Group Metals
Authors: Saunders Amy J. , Crossley Ian R. , Roe S. Mark
Published: August 2016

A series of aroylphosphanes have been prepared in good yield by base‐free condensation of the respective aroyl chloride and HPPh2. Alongside the cyclophane m‐{‐C(O)‐C6H4(C(O)PMe)}2 (1), the IR spectroscopic signatures of C6H4R{C(O)PPh2} (R = 3‐Me 2, 3‐CH2Cl 3, 4‐CO2Me 4, 4‐CN 5) and the bis(aroylphosphanes) C6H4{2,6‐C(O)PPh2}2 (6) and C6H3N{2,6‐C(O)PPh2}2 (7) are consistent with a manifestation of “phosphomide” character; however, weight of evidence suggests negligible contribution from this canonical form. Comparison is drawn to the structurally characterised O=P(C6H5Me‐2)3 (8) in which the lone pair is sequestered. The coordination of 2–5 to rhodium(I), palladium(II) and platinum(II) is described, affording rare examples of aroylphosphane complexes of the platinum‐group metals.
Asymmetrical 1,3‐Bis(heteroazolyl)benzene Platinum Complexes with Tunable Second‐Order Non‐Linear Optical Properties
Authors: Dang Tung T. , Soulé Jean‐François , Doucet Henri , Benmensour Mohamed Ali , Boucekkine Abdou , Colombo Alessia , Dragonetti Claudia , Righetto Stefania , Jacquemin Denis , Boixel Julien , Guerchais Véronique
Published: August 2016

A series of cyclometallated platinum(II) complexes bearing an asymmetrical 1,3‐bis(heteroazolyl)benzene ligand as well as a chloro or phenylacetylene ancillary ligand have been synthesized and characterized. The N^C^N pro‐ligands, (benzoxazolyl)(benzothiazolyl)benzene in complex Pt1 and related compounds, and (benzoxazolyl)(benzimidazolyl)benzene in complex Pt2, were synthesized by a two‐step procedure that includes a Pd‐catalysed C–H bond‐activation reaction. The electronic absorption, luminescence and second‐order non‐linear optical properties of the novel complexes were investigated experimentally and theoretically (TD‐DFT) and compared with those of the known 1,3‐bis(benzoxazolyl)benzeneplatinum complex, the non‐linear optical response of which has been studied for the first time. All the complexes exhibit green luminescence in dichloromethane solution at room temperature, the nature of the heteroazolyl ligand and/or the substituent on the central phenyl ring having no significant impact on the emission signatures. In contrast, functionalization of the terdentate ligands and the nature of the ancillary ligand (chloride or phenylacetylide) allow modulation of the non‐linear optical activity.
Monitoring of freshwater toxins in European environmental waters by using novel multi-detection methods
Authors: Rodriguez Ines , Fraga Maria , Alfonso Amparo , Guillebault Delphine , Medlin Linda , Baudart Julia , Jacob Pauline , Helmi Karim , Meyer Thomas , Breitenbach Ulrich , Holden Nicholas M. , Boots Bas , Spurio Roberto , Cimarelli Lucia , Mancini Laura , Marcheggiani Stefania , Albay Meric , Akcaalan Reyhan , Köker Latife , Botana Luis M.
Published: August 2016

Monitoring the quality of freshwater is an important issue for public health. In the context of the European project μAqua, 150 samples were collected from several waters in France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Turkey for 2 yr. These samples were analyzed using 2 multitoxin detection methods previously developed: a microsphere-based method coupled to flow-cytometry, and an ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method. The presence of microcystins, nodularin, domoic acid, cylindrospermopsin, and several analogues of anatoxin-a (ATX-a) was monitored. No traces of cylindrospermopsin or domoic acid were found in any of the environmental samples. Microcystin-LR and microcystin-RR were detected in 2 samples from Turkey and Germany. In the case of ATX-a derivatives, 75% of samples contained mainly H2-ATX-a and small amounts of H2-homoanatoxin-a, whereas ATX-a and homoanatoxin-a were found in only 1 sample. These results confirm the presence and wide distribution of dihydro derivatives of ATX-a toxins in European freshwaters. Environ Toxicol Chem 2017;36:645–654. © 2016 SETAC
Decreased between‐hemisphere connectivity strength and network efficiency in geriatric depression
Authors: Li Xuesong , Steffens David C. , Potter Guy G. , Guo Hua , Song Sen , Wang Lihong
Published: August 2016

White matter (WM) lesions have been recognized as a key etiological factor in geriatric depression. However, little is known about the topological pattern changes of WM in geriatric depression in the remitted state (RGD) and its relationship to depressive episodes. To address these questions, we acquired diffusion tensor images in 24 RGD and 24 healthy participants. Among them, 10 patients and 19 healthy controls completed a 1‐year follow up. Between‐hemisphere connectivity and graph theoretical methods were used to analyze the data. We found significantly reduced WM connectivity between the left and right hemisphere in the RGD group compared with the control group. Those with multiple depression episodes had greater reduction in between‐hemisphere connectivity strength than those with fewer episodes. In addition, the RGD group had a reduced global clustering coefficient, global efficiency, and network strength, and an increased shortest path length compared with the controls. A lower clustering coefficient was correlated with poorer memory function. The reduction of nodal clustering coefficient, global efficiency, and network strength in several regions were associated with slower information processing speed. At 1‐year follow up, the network properties in the RGD subjects were significantly changed suggesting instability of WM network properties of depressed patients. Together, our study provides direct evidence of reduced between‐hemisphere WM connectivity with greater depressive episodes, and of alterations of network properties with cognitive dysfunction in geriatric depression. Hum Brain Mapp 38:53–67, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Magnetic Property of New Trispin Ln(III)‐Nitronyl Nitroxide Complexes
Authors: Fan Zhe , Hou Yi‐Fang , Wang Shu‐Ping , Yang Shu‐Tao , Zhang Jian‐Jun , Shi Shi‐Kao , Geng Li‐Na
Published: August 2016

Four Ln(III) complexes based on a new nitronyl nitroxide radical have been synthesized and structurally characterized: {Ln(hfac)3[NITPh(MeO)2]2} (Ln = Eu(1), Gd(2), Tb(3), Dy(4); NITPh(MeO)2 = 2‐(3′,4′‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide; hfac = hexafluoroacetylacetonate). The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that these complexes have similar mononuclear trispin structures, in which central Ln(III) ion is eight‐coordinated by two O‐atoms from two nitroxide groups and six O‐atoms from three hfac anions. The variable temperature magnetic susceptibility study reveals that there exist ferromagnetic interactions between Gd(III) and the radicals, and antiferromagnetic interactions between two radicals (JGd‐Rad = 3.40 cm−1, JRad‐Rad = −9.99 cm−1) in complex 2. Meanwhile, antiferromagnetic interactions are estimated between Eu(III) (or Dy(III)) and radicals in complexes 1 and 4, and ferromagnetic interaction between Tb(III) and radicals in complex 3, respectively.
Comparison and combination of blood DNA methylation at smoking‐associated genes and at lung cancer‐related genes in prediction of lung cancer mortality
Authors: Zhang Yan , Breitling Lutz P. , Balavarca Yesilda , Holleczek Bernd , Schöttker Ben , Brenner Hermann
Published: August 2016

Epigenome‐wide association studies have established methylation patterns related to smoking, the major risk factor of lung cancer (LC), which are distinct from methylation profiles disclosed in LC patients. This study simultaneously investigated associations of smoking‐associated and LC‐related methylation markers with LC mortality. DNA methylation was determined by HM450K assay in baseline blood samples of 1,565 older adults in a population‐based case–cohort study. The associations of 151 smoking‐associated CpGs (smoCpGs) and 3,806 LC‐related CpGs (caCpGs) with LC mortality were assessed by weighted Cox regression models, controlling for potential confounders. Multi‐loci methylation scores were separately constructed based on smoCpGs and caCpGs. During a median follow‐up of 13.8 years, 60 participants who had a first diagnosis of LC died from LC. The average time between sample collection and LC diagnosis was 5.8 years. Hypomethylation at 77 smoCpGs and 121 caCpGs, and hypermethylation at 4 smoCpGs and 66 caCpGs were associated with LC mortality. The associations were much stronger for smoCpGs than for caCpGs. Hazard ratios (95% CI) were 7.82 (2.91–21.00) and 2.27 (0.75–6.85), respectively, for participants in highest quartile of Score I (based on 81 smoCpGs) and Score II (based on 187 caCpGs), compared with participants in the corresponding lower three quartiles. Score I outperformed Score II, with an optimism‐corrected C‐index of 0.87 vs. 0.77. In conclusion, although methylation changes of both smoking‐associated and LC‐related genes are associated with LC mortality, only smoking‐associated methylation markers predict LC mortality with high accuracy, and may thus serve as promising candidates to identify high risk populations for LC screening.
PREDICTORS OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AMONG HIGHLY INVOLVED YOUNG ADULTS: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGENCY AND SYSTEMS WORLDVIEW
Authors: Moore Stephanie S. , Hope Elan C. , Eisman Andria B. , Zimmerman Marc A.
Published: August 2016

Civic engagement maintains the viability of democratic society and promotes positive outcomes for those who participate. Young adults' patterns of civic engagement differ according to the type of activity, yet little is known about the psychological mechanisms that lead to different types of participation. We tested the relationship between two types of sociopolitical beliefs (sense of agency and systems worldview) and two distinct forms of civic engagement: political involvement and community service. We hypothesized that agency would predict both forms of engagement and that systems worldview would moderate the relationship between agency and political involvement, but have little effect on community service. Using data from a racially diverse national sample of highly engaged young adults (n = 259), we conducted hierarchical linear multiple regression analyses and found that agency predicted both political involvement and community service. We found that systems worldview moderated the relationship between agency and both forms of civic engagement.
Store‐Operated Ca2+ Entry in Oocytes Modulate the Dynamics of IP3‐Dependent Ca2+ Release From Oscillatory to Tonic
Authors: Courjaret Raphaël , Dib Maya , Machaca Khaled
Published: August 2016

Ca2+ signaling is ubiquitous and mediates various cellular functions encoded in its spatial, temporal, and amplitude features. Here, we investigate the role of store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in regulating the temporal dynamics of Ca2+ signals in Xenopus oocytes, which can be either oscillatory or tonic. Oscillatory Ca2+ release from intracellular stores is typically observed at physiological agonist concentration. When Ca2+ release leads to Ca2+ store depletion, this triggers the activation of SOCE that translates into a low‐amplitude tonic Ca2+ signal. SOCE has also been implicated in fueling Ca2+ oscillations when activated at low levels. Here, we show that sustained SOCE activation in the presence of IP3 to gate IP3 receptors (IP3R) results in a pump‐leak steady state across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane that inhibits Ca2+ oscillations and produces a tonic Ca2+ signal. Tonic signaling downstream of SOCE activation relies on focal Ca2+ entry through SOCE ER‐plasma membrane (PM) junctions, Ca2+ uptake into the ER, followed by release through open IP3Rs at distant sites, a process we refer to as “Ca2+ teleporting.” Therefore, sustained SOCE activation in the presence of an IP3‐dependent “leak” pathway at the ER membrane results in a switch from oscillatory to tonic Ca2+ signaling. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1095–1103, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Increased prevalence of human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV‐8) genome among blood donors from North‐Western Argentina
Authors: Hulaniuk María Laura , Torres Oscar , Bartoli Sonia , Fortuny Lisandro , Burgos Pratx Leandro , Nuñez Félix , Salamone Horacio , Corach Daniel , Trinks Julieta , Caputo Mariela
Published: August 2016

The prevalence of HHV‐8 infection varies widely in South American populations, displaying geographical variations in its distribution. The heterogeneous genetic contributions provided by the transatlantic parental populations that modified the Native American genomes may explain this epidemiological observation. Aiming to determine the prevalence of HHV‐8 genome among healthy South American blood donors and its potential association with genetic ancestry, 772 individuals were screened by a highly sensitive PCR protocol and ancestry was assessed in 414 samples. HHV‐8 DNA was significantly more prevalent among North‐western Argentines than among those from the metropolitan region (P = 0.001) and Bolivians (P = 0.0008), but no differences were found when compared with Peruvians and Paraguayans. Although significant differences were observed in the ancestry components of the studied populations, no association was found in the genetic admixture between HHV‐8 [+] and HHV‐8 [−] samples from the same place. These results support the hypothesis of the existence of geographical factors related to HHV‐8 prevalence which could be explained by the presence of specific risk factors, cultural characteristics or behaviors, probably related to contaminated saliva and/or sexual transmission. The presence of HHV‐8 in South American blood units available for transfusion and an increased risk of infection in some provinces of North‐western Argentina represent a hazard for immunosuppressed recipients. J. Med. Virol. 89:518–527, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of enterovirus and parechovirus infections according to patient age over a 4‐year period in Spain
Authors: Cabrerizo María , Díaz‐Cerio María , Muñoz‐Almagro Carmen , Rabella Núria , Tarragó David , Romero María Pilar , Pena María José , Calvo Cristina , Rey‐Cao Sonia , Moreno‐Docón Antonio , Martínez‐Rienda Inés , Otero Almudena , Trallero Gloria
Published: August 2016

The epidemiology and clinical association of enterovirus (EV) and parechovirus (HPeV) infections, as well as the type‐distribution‐according‐to‐age, were determined during a 4‐year study period in Spain. During 2010–2013, a total of 21,832 clinical samples were screened for EV and the detection frequency was 6.5% (1,430). Of the total EV‐negative samples, only 1,873 samples from 2011 to 2013 were available for HPeV testing. HPeV was detected in 42 (2%) of them. Positive samples were genotyped using PCR and sequencing. EV infections occurred in all age groups of patients: neonates (17%), children 28 days to 2 years (29%), children 2–14 years (40%), and adults (14%). Thirty‐four different EV types were identified. HPeV infections were detected exclusively in infants <8 m (70% neonates, P < 0.05). All but one HPeV were HPeV‐3. Differences in type frequency detection were found according to age and clinical manifestation. Coxsackievirus (CV)‐B4 (61%), CV‐B5 (83%), and HPeV‐3 (64%) were more frequent in neonates than in older patients (P < 0.05). Echovirus (E)‐3 (60%), E‐18 (47%), E‐25 (62%), CV‐A6 (61%), CV‐A16 (72%), and EV‐71 (75%) were mainly detected in children 28 days to 2 years (P < 0.05), whereas, E‐6 (79%), E‐20 (88%), and E‐30 (85%) were predominant in children >2 years and adults (P < 0.05). Clinically, meningitis was associated with EV (P < 0.01) whereas, encephalitis was more frequent in HPeV‐infected patients. CV‐B types were associated with myocarditis (90%; P < 0.05) and EV species A with hand–foot–mouth‐disease/atypical exanthema (88%; P < 0.05). J. Med. Virol. 89:435–442, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gridded, monthly rainfall and temperature climatology for El Niño Southern Oscillation impacts in the United States
Authors: Dourte Daniel R. , Gelcer Eduardo , Uryasev Oxana , Staub Caroline G. , Barreto Daniel D. , Fraisse Clyde W.
Published: August 2016

This article introduces a web‐based climate information resource: an El Niño Southern Oscillation ENSO‐based monthly climatology for the United States, available on AgroClimate.org. Climate variability affects land managers and decision makers in a variety of ways. The ENSO is one of the leading drivers of seasonal and year‐to‐year climate variability. Understanding the historical rainfall and temperature anomalies associated with ENSO can be an important way for decision makers to learn how they might anticipate climate variability. We used the ENSO record from 1950 to 2013 to develop an ENSO‐specific climatology. This allows decision makers to pinpoint the combinations of location and month in which there are substantial ENSO‐associated rainfall or temperature anomalies. Learning about the timing of historical ENSO‐driven climate impacts can be an important first step for decision makers to develop management adjustments that could make the most positive outcomes based on the available climate information.