bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrafine CoPx Nanoparticles Anchored on Nitrogen Doped Reduced Graphene Oxides for Superior Hydrogenation in Alkaline Media
Authors: Zheng Lingxia , Hu Wangwang , Shu Xuwei , Zheng Huajun , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: June 2018

Cobalt phosphides based materials are considered as promising electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The catalytic performance can be further enhanced by improving the intrinsic catalytic activity, exposing more active sites and coupling with conductive support. Herein, a novel electrocatalyst based on nitrogen doped reduced graphene oxides decorates with uniformly distributed CoPx nanoparticles with a suitable P/Co ratio (x = 1.7) via a facile and mild condition. The optimized composite (CoPx/N‐rGO) exhibits superior electrocatalytic HER activities with a low overpotential of 104 mV (at 10 mA cm−2), a small Tafel slope of 65 mV dec−1, and long‐term stability in the alkaline media, comparable to the performance of other HER electrocatalysts. The remarkable HER performance can be ascribed to the good electrical conductivity of rGO and extra active sites created by nitrogen doping. In addition, the ultrafine nanostructure (average particle size ≈4 nm) and well‐dispersed CoPx nanoparticles also help expose more active sites for electrocatalytic reactions, largely hindering the agglomeration and exfoliation. This work provides a versatile route on the design of multifunctional composite materials for renewable energy research with low cost and high activity.
Origin and diversity of an underutilized fruit tree crop, cempedak (Artocarpus integer, Moraceae)
Authors: Wang Maria M. H. , Gardner Elliot M. , Chung Richard C. K. , Chew Ming Yee , Milan Abd Rahman , Pereira Joan T. , Zerega Nyree J. C.
Published: June 2018

Premise of the Study

Underutilized crops and their wild relatives are important resources for crop improvement and food security. Cempedak [Artocarpus integer (Thunb). Merr.] is a significant crop in Malaysia but underutilized elsewhere. Here we performed molecular characterization of cempedak and its putative wild relative bangkong (Artocarpus integer (Thunb). Merr. var. silvestris Corner) to address questions regarding the origin and diversity of cempedak.

Methods

Using data from 12 microsatellite loci, we assessed the genetic diversity and genetic/geographic structure for 353 cempedak and 175 bangkong accessions from Malaysia and neighboring countries and employed clonal analysis to characterize cempedak cultivars. We conducted haplotype network analyses on the trnH‐psbA region in a subset of these samples. We also analyzed key vegetative characters that reportedly differentiate cempedak and bangkong.

Key Results

We show that cempedak and bangkong are sister taxa and distinct genetically and morphologically, but the directionality of domestication origin is unclear. Genetic diversity was generally higher in bangkong than in cempedak. We found a distinct genetic cluster for cempedak from Borneo as compared to cempedak from Peninsular Malaysia. Finally, cempedak cultivars with the same names did not always share the same genetic fingerprint.

Conclusions

Cempedak origins are complex, with likely admixture and hybridization with bangkong, warranting further investigation. We provide a baseline of genetic diversity of cempedak and bangkong in Malaysia and found that germplasm collections in Malaysia represent diverse coverage of the four cempedak genetic clusters detected.
Processes of Natural Mentoring that Promote Underrepresented Students’ Educational Attainment: A Theoretical Model
Authors: Hagler Matthew
Published: June 2018

Longitudinal studies suggest that naturally occurring mentoring relationships are associated with positive, long‐term educational outcomes, but little is known about the mechanisms underlying these potential effects. Predominant theories and research methods portray natural mentoring as a static, one‐to‐one phenomenon and are removed from specific sociocultural and developmental contexts. Thus, the current paper critically reviews existing literature and proposes a dynamic, network‐based process model of mentoring. Building on Rhodes’ (2005, Handbook of youth mentoring, Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage, 30) theoretical model, the proposed model integrates sociological, educational, and psychological research to examine developmental pathways through which natural mentoring relationships might promote underrepresented (e.g., low‐income, ethnic/racial minorities) students’ educational persistence and success. In particular, mentoring relationships might enhance students’ positive help‐seeking beliefs and trust in nonparent adults. These mentors may possess key cultural capital and knowledge that help underrepresented students navigate White, upper‐ or middle‐class cultural norms. Mentors may also cultivate students’ school‐relevant selves and bicultural identities, facilitating integration into mainstream academia while affirming cultures of origin. Through these processes, previous mentoring experiences may promote the formation of new mentoring relationships, enabling youth to build dynamic support networks. Unfortunately, on a larger scale, advantage and disadvantage persist due to inequitable access to mentoring in educational settings.
(Diacetoxyiodo)benzene‐mediated Selective Synthesis of α‐Azido Ketones or Acyl Azides from β‐Keto Acids
Authors: Zheng Zhao‐Jing , Yu Tian‐Yang , Xu Peng‐Fei , Wei Hao
Published: June 2018

(Diacetoxyiodo)benzene‐mediated selective synthesis of α‐azido ketones or acyl azides from keto acids is developed. The selectivity depends on the amounts of the reagents used. Treatment of β‐keto acid derivatives with 1.2 or 2.2 equivalents of (diacetoxyiodo)benzene results in α‐azido ketone or acyl azide products, respectively. Initial mechanistic studies show that monobromomethyl ketone and dibromomethyl ketone are plausible intermediates in these reactions.
Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Diboranes by Diborane Metathesis
Authors: Pécharman Anne‐Frédérique , Hill Michael S. , Mahon Mary F.
Published: June 2018

Reactions of readily accessible magnesium‐centered pinacolatoboryl nucleophiles with [(Ph2B)2O] result in B−O bond activation of the diphenylborinic anhydride. Although [pinBBPh2] is apparently generated when the nucleophilic boron unit is derived in situ from a magnesium diboranate, it cannot be isolated owing to its onward derivatization by a further {Bpin}− equivalent. A reaction with a terminal magnesium boryl species similarly provides a boryloxide byproduct. In this case, however, the unsymmetrical B(sp2)−B(sp3) diborane may be intercepted as its DMAP adduct.
Benzocyclobutadienes: An Unusual Mode of Access Reveals Unusual Modes of Reactivity
Authors: Xiao Xiao , Woods Brian P. , Xiu Wen , Hoye Thomas R.
Published: June 2018

The reaction of an aryne with an alkyne to generate a benzocyclobutadiene (BCB) intermediate is rare. We report here examples of this reaction, revealed by Diels–Alder trapping of the BCB by either pendant or external electron‐deficient alkynes. Mechanistic delineation of the reaction course is supported by DFT calculations. A three‐component process joining the benzyne first with an electron‐rich and then with an electron‐poor alkyne was uncovered. Reactions in which the BCB functions in a rarely observed role as a 4π diene component in Diels–Alder reactions are reported. The results also shed new light on aspects of the hexadehydro‐Diels–Alder reaction used to generate the benzynes.
Eine ungewöhnliche intramolekulare Halogenbindung führt zu konformationeller Selektion
Authors: Tesch Roberta , Becker Christian , Müller Matthias Philipp , Beck Michael Edmund , Quambusch Lena , Getlik Matthäus , Lategahn Jonas , Uhlenbrock Niklas , Costa Fanny Nascimento , Polêto Marcelo D. , Pinheiro Pedro de Sena Murteira , Rodrigues Daniel Alencar , Sant'Anna Carlos Mauricio R. , Ferreira Fabio Furlan , Verli Hugo , Fraga Carlos Alberto Manssour , Rauh Daniel
Published: June 2018

PIK‐75 ist ein α‐Isoform‐selektiver Phosphoinositid‐3‐Kinase(PI3K)‐Inhibitor mit hoher Potenz. Obwohl veröffentlichte SAR‐Daten die Wichtigkeit der NO2‐ und Br‐Substituenten in PIK‐75 zeigen, konnte bisher keine Studie die zugrundeliegende Ursache der Bedeutung korrekt bestimmen. In dieser Zuschrift beschreiben wir die erste Kristallstruktur von PIK‐75 im Komplex mit der Kinase GSK‐3β. Die Struktur zeigt eine ungewöhnliche U‐förmige Konformation von PIK‐75 innerhalb des aktiven Zentrums von GSK‐3β, die wahrscheinlich durch eine atypische intramolekulare Br⋅⋅⋅NO2‐Halogenbindung stabilisiert wird. NMR‐ und MD‐Simulationen zeigen, dass diese Konformation wahrscheinlich ebenfalls in Lösung vorliegt und zu einer bindungskompetenten Konformation des PIK‐75‐Moleküls führt, was wiederum seine hohe Potenz erklärt. Wir schlagen daher vor, dass der ortsspezifische Einbau von intramolekularen Halogenbindungen im Allgemeinen verwendet werden könnte, um konformationell eingeschränkte bioaktive Substanzen mit erhöhter Potenz zu generieren.
Anwendung von Mediumeffekten in Aktivierungs‐ und Deaktivierungsstrategien zur selektiven Funktionalisierung aliphatischer C‐H‐Bindungen
Authors: Bietti Massimo
Published: June 2018

Die selektive Funktionalisierung nichtaktivierter aliphatischer C‐H‐Bindungen ist ein wichtiges Ziel der modernen Synthesechemie. Jedoch stellt die hochselektive Unterscheidung zwischen Bindungen in organischen Molekülen eine entscheidende Herausforderung dar, und ein tiefgreifendes Verständnis der selbst geringsten Reaktivitätstrends ist unerlässlich. Von den dafür entwickelten Methoden fanden Ansätze basierend auf Wasserstoffatomtransfer (HAT) besonderes Interesse. Dabei wurden Effekte von Reaktionsmedien erfolgreich zur Veränderung der Reaktivität und Regioselektivität in synthetisch bedeutenden C‐H‐Funktionalisierungreaktionen genutzt. In diesem Aufsatz werden die mechanistischen Besonderheiten dieser verfügbaren Strategien diskutiert. Es wird gezeigt, dass Wasserstoffbrücken und Säure‐Base‐Wechselwirkungen die Aktivierung oder Deaktivierung von C‐H‐Bindungen für HAT‐Reagenzien begünstigen und damit zur Feineinstellung von Regioselektivität und Chemoselektivität sowie als Orientierung für zukünftige Entwicklungen und Anwendungen genutzt werden können.
A Ratiometric Two‐Photon Fluorescent Probe for Tracking Lysosomal ATP: Direct In Cellulo Observation of Lysosomal Membrane Fusion Processes
Authors: Jun Yong Woong , Wang Taejun , Hwang Sekyu , Kim Dokyoung , Ma Donghee , Kim Ki Hean , Kim Sungjee , Jung Junyang , Ahn Kyo Han
Published: June 2018

Vesicles exchange their contents through membrane fusion processes, kiss‐and‐run and full‐collapse fusion. Indirect observation of these fusion processes using artificial vesicles enhanced our understanding on the molecular mechanisms involved. Direct observation of the fusion processes in a real biological system, however, remains a challenge owing to many technical obstacles. We report a ratiometric two‐photon probe offering real‐time tracking of lysosomal ATP with quantitative information for the first time. By applying the probe to two‐photon live‐cell imaging, the lysosomal membrane fusion process in cells has been directly observed and the concentration of its content, lysosomal ATP, has been measured. Results show that the kiss‐and‐run process between lysosomes proceeds through repeated transient interactions with gradual content mixing, whereas the full‐fusion process occurs at once. Furthermore, it is confirmed that both the fusion processes proceed with conservation of the content. Such a small‐molecule probe exerts minimal disturbance and hence has potential for studying various biological processes associated with lysosomal ATP.
An Unusual Intramolecular Halogen Bond Guides Conformational Selection
Authors: Tesch Roberta , Becker Christian , Müller Matthias Philipp , Beck Michael Edmund , Quambusch Lena , Getlik Matthäus , Lategahn Jonas , Uhlenbrock Niklas , Costa Fanny Nascimento , Polêto Marcelo D. , Pinheiro Pedro de Sena Murteira , Rodrigues Daniel Alencar , Sant'Anna Carlos Mauricio R. , Ferreira Fabio Furlan , Verli Hugo , Fraga Carlos Alberto Manssour , Rauh Daniel
Published: June 2018

PIK‐75 is a phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase (PI3K) α‐isoform‐selective inhibitor with high potency. Although published structure–activity relationship data show the importance of the NO2 and the Br substituents in PIK‐75, none of the published studies could correctly determine the underlying reason for their importance. In this publication, we report the first X‐ray crystal structure of PIK‐75 in complex with the kinase GSK‐3β. The structure shows an unusual U‐shaped conformation of PIK‐75 within the active site of GSK‐3β that is likely stabilized by an atypical intramolecular Br⋅⋅⋅NO2 halogen bond. NMR and MD simulations show that this conformation presumably also exists in solution and leads to a binding‐competent preorganization of the PIK‐75 molecule, thus explaining its high potency. We therefore suggest that the site‐specific incorporation of halogen bonds could be generally used to design conformationally restricted bioactive substances with increased potencies.
Three‐component solventless Strecker synthesis of α‐aminonitriles catalysed by a renewable sulfonated nanoporous carbon catalyst (CMK‐5‐SO3H)
Authors: Zareyee Daryoush , Rad Ali Shokuhi , Ataei Zahra , Javadi Sayed Hossein , Khalilzadeh Mohammad A.
Published: June 2018

The one‐pot three‐component synthesis of a variety of α‐aminonitriles has been studied using a catalytic amount of a sulfonic acid‐functionalized ordered nanoporous carbon catalyst, CMK‐5‐SO3H, at room temperature under solvent‐free reaction conditions. The heterogeneous catalyst could be readily isolated from the reaction mixture and reused at least ten times without significant loss in activity. A clean, rapid and simple method for the preparation of α‐aminonitriles using the recoverable CMK‐5‐SO3H catalyst is described.
Investigation of the Effects of Virgin Olive Oil Cleaning Systems on the Secoiridoid Aglycone Content Using High Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pascale Raffaella , Bianco Giuliana , Cataldi Tommaso R. I. , Buchicchio Alessandro , Losito Ilario , Altieri Giuseppe , Genovese Francesco , Tauriello Antonella , Di Renzo Giovanni C. , Lafiosca Maria C.
Published: June 2018

Phenolic compounds are useful markers to control olive oil technological processes, including the virgin olive oil (VOO)/water separation after olive oil extraction. In this investigation, VOO extracted from olives of cv. Coratina using a mild oil/water separator called the hydrocyclone sedimentation system (Hydroil) was compared with VOO obtained using a conventional vertical centrifuge separator (Cenoil), which is mostly used in the modern olive oil industry. Secoiridoid aglycones were selected, among phenolic compounds, as markers and analyzed using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography coupled to linear quadrupole ion‐trap mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization in the negative mode. VOO samples obtained using the Hydroil system were found to contain significantly higher levels of secoiridoid aglycones, compared to the Cenoyl‐type samples. In particular, the total content of the aglycones of decarboxymethyl oleuropein, decarboxymethyl ligstroside, ligstroside, and oleuropein, expressed in terms of oleuropein, was estimated as 35.40 ± 0.80 mg kg−1, compared to 8.06 ± 0.41 mg kg−1 in the Cenoil samples (n = 3). Since no significant difference in residual water (P < 0.05) was found between the two types of VOO samples, the higher amount of secoiridoids obtained for Hydroil‐type ones was explained by the lower extent of oxidation occurring during the mild oil/water separation achieved using the Hydroil system.
Molecular characterization of a typical 2‐Cys thioredoxin peroxidase from the Asiatic rice borer Chilo suppressalis and its role in oxidative stress
Authors: Cao Ye , Yang Qing , Tu Xiao‐Hui , Li Shi‐Guang , Liu Su
Published: June 2018

In insects, thioredoxin peroxidase (TPX) plays an important role in protecting against oxidative damage. However, studies on the molecular characteristics of TPXs in the Asiatic rice borer, Chilo suppressalis, are limited. In this work, a cDNA sequence (CsTpx3) encoding a TPX was identified from C. suppressalis. The deduced CsTPX3 protein shares high sequence identity and two positionally conserved cysteines with orthologs from other insect species, and was classified as a typical 2‐Cys TPX. CsTpx3 was expressed most highly during the fifth‐instar larval stage, and transcripts were most abundant in the midgut. Recombinant CsTPX3 protein expressed in Escherichia coli displayed the expected peroxidase activity by removing H2O2. Furthermore, CsTPX3 protected DNA from oxidative damage, and E. coli cells overexpressing CsTPX3 exhibited long‐term resistance to oxidative stress. Exposure to various oxidative stressors, such as cold (8°C), heat (35°C), bacteria (E. coli), and two insecticides (chlorpyrifos and lambda‐cyhalothrin), significantly upregulated transcription of CsTpx3. However, exposure to abamectin had no such effect. Our results provide valuable information for future studies on the antioxidant mechanism in this insect species.
Modeling vehicle traffic loads by the 2D compound Poisson process
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Deru , Li Yingqiu , Zhang Haiping
Published: June 2018

Vehicular loads are an important factor in the fatigue and deterioration of bridges. In this paper, using weight‐in‐motion data from the Nanxi Yangtze river bridge, we propose a novel two‐dimensional (2D) compound Poisson process model of vehicle loads. This model considers the relations between vehicle loads, including vehicle speed and weight, whereby the relationships between these two marginal processes are described by a 2D Lévy copula function. Vehicle loads simulated by the proposed model were then compared with measured vehicle loads. The results show that histograms for vehicle loads simulated by the proposed model are similar to those generated for the measured vehicle loads. Moreover, the theoretical probabilities of vehicle loads are close in value to the empirical probabilities of vehicle loads. In addition, a two‐sample Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test at the significance level of 1% is given, which yields asymptotic p‐values of 3.2966 × 10−4 for vehicle speed and 3.0489 × 10−10 for vehicle weight. These values confirm that the proposed 2D compound Poisson process model is suitable for estimating vehicle loads.
The Positive Plus Program: Affirmative classroom management to improve student behavior
Authors: Clair Elissa B. , Bahr Michael W. , Quach Heather L. , LeDuc James D.
Published: June 2018

This study describes the Positive Plus Program, a multicomponent intervention combining behavior‐specific praise with an interdependent group contingency and teacher feedback. An elementary school teacher wanting to improve her classroom management skills implemented the Positive Plus Program. Four second‐grade students participated in the study, and each of the students emitted disruptive behavior in class previously. This study, using an ABAB design, indicated that when the teacher reliably delivered high levels of behavior‐specific praise and awarded points, disruptive behavior was less likely. Student outcomes showed increased academic engagement and decreased off‐task motor and verbal behavior from pre‐ to post‐intervention. Teacher ratings indicated high levels of social validity. In light of these findings, implications for future research and implementation are discussed.
Reconstruction of 24 Penicillium genome‐scale metabolic models shows diversity based on their secondary metabolism
Authors: Prigent Sylvain , Nielsen Jens C. , Frisvad Jens C. , Nielsen Jens
Published: June 2018

Modeling of metabolism at the genome‐scale has proved to be an efficient method for explaining the phenotypic traits observed in living organisms. Further, it can be used as a means of predicting the effect of genetic modifications for example, development of microbial cell factories. With the increasing amount of genome sequencing data available, there exists a need to accurately and efficiently generate such genome‐scale metabolic models (GEMs) of nonmodel organisms, for which data is sparse. In this study, we present an automatic reconstruction approach applied to 24 Penicillium species, which have potential for production of pharmaceutical secondary metabolites or use in the manufacturing of food products, such as cheeses. The models were based on the MetaCyc database and a previously published Penicillium GEM and gave rise to comprehensive genome‐scale metabolic descriptions. The models proved that while central carbon metabolism is highly conserved, secondary metabolic pathways represent the main diversity among species. The automatic reconstruction approach presented in this study can be applied to generate GEMs of other understudied organisms, and the developed GEMs are a useful resource for the study of Penicillium metabolism, for example, for the scope of developing novel cell factories.
Milligram scale production of potent recombinant small interfering RNAs in Escherichia coli
Authors: Kaur Guneet , Cheung Hung‐Chi , Xu Wei , Wong Jun Vic , Chan For Fan , Li Yingxue , McReynolds Larry , Huang Linfeng
Published: June 2018

Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are invaluable research tools for studying gene functions in mammalian cells. siRNAs are mainly produced by chemical synthesis or by enzymatic digestion of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) produced in vitro. Recently, bacterial cells, engineered with ectopic plant viral siRNA binding protein p19, have enabled the production of “recombinant” siRNAs (pro‐siRNAs). Here, we describe an optimized methodology for the production of milligram amount of highly potent recombinant pro‐siRNAs from Escherichia coli cells. We first optimized bacterial culture medium and tested new designs of pro‐siRNA production plasmid. Through the exploration of multiple pro‐siRNA related factors, including the expression of p19 protein, (dsRNA) generation method, and the level of RNase III, we developed an optimal pro‐siRNA production plasmid. Together with a high–cell density fed‐batch fermentation method in a bioreactor, we have achieved a yield of ~10 mg purified pro‐siRNA per liter of bacterial culture. The pro‐siRNAs produced by the optimized method can achieve high efficiency of gene silencing when used at low nanomolar concentrations. This new method enables fast, economical, and renewable production of pure and highly potent bioengineered pro‐siRNAs at the milligram level. Our study also provides important insights into the strategies for optimizing the production of RNA products in bacteria, which is an under‐explored field.
Evaluation of encapsulating and microporous nondegradable hydrogel scaffold designs on islet engraftment in rodent models of diabetes
Authors: Rios Peter D. , Skoumal Michael , Liu Jeffrey , Youngblood Richard , Kniazeva Ekaterina , Garcia Andrés J. , Shea Lonnie D.
Published: June 2018

Islet transplantation is a promising therapeutic option for type 1 diabetes mellitus, yet the current delivery into the hepatic portal vasculature is limited by poor engraftment. Biomaterials have been used as a means to promote engraftment and function at extrahepatic sites, with strategies being categorized as encapsulation or microporous scaffolds that can either isolate or integrate islets with the host tissue, respectively. Although these approaches are typically studied separately using distinct material platforms, herein, we developed nondegradable polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐based hydrogels for islet encapsulation or as microporous scaffolds for islet seeding to compare the initial engraftment and function of islets in syngeneic diabetic mice. Normoglycemia was restored with transplantation of islets within either encapsulating or microporous hydrogels containing 700 islet equivalents (IEQ), with transplantation on microporous hydrogels producing lower blood glucose levels at earlier times. A glucose challenge test at 1 month after transplant indicated that encapsulated islets had a delay in glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion, whereas microporous hydrogels restored normoglycemia in times consistent with native pancreata. Encapsulated islets remained isolated from the host tissue, whereas the microporous scaffolds allowed for revascularization of the islets after transplant. Finally, we compared the inflammatory response after transplantation for the two systems and noted that microporous hydrogels had a substantially increased presence of neutrophils. Collectively, these findings suggest that both encapsulation and microporous PEG scaffold designs allow for stable engraftment of syngeneic islets and the ability to restore normoglycemia, yet the architecture influences islet function and responsiveness after transplantation.
Meta-analysis of the oncological safety of autologous fat transfer after breast cancer
Authors: Krastev T K , Schop S J , Hommes J , Piatkowski A A , Heuts E M , van der Hulst R R W J
Published: June 2018

Background

Autologous fat transfer, also known as lipofilling, is a minimally invasive technique that uses the patient's own fat to correct disfiguring sequelae after breast cancer surgery. Despite its obvious clinical benefits, experimental research has demonstrated that autologous fat transfer inherently stimulates angiogenesis and tissue regeneration, which is feared to increase the risk of locoregional recurrence of breast cancer. This meta-analysis is founded on recently completed large cohort studies on this highly relevant topic.

Methods

A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library on 1 September 2017, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, to identify all relevant studies of patients with breast cancer exposed to autologous fat transfer. The difference in incidence rate of locoregional recurrence between patients who had autologous fat transfer and controls was the primary outcome in the meta-analysis.

Results

Fifty-nine studies and a total of 4292 patients were included. These consisted of seven matched cohorts, 12 cohorts and 40 case series. Mean follow-up was 5·7 years from the date of primary cancer surgery and 2·7 years after autologous fat transfer. Meta-analysis of matched cohorts revealed an incidence rate difference of –0·15 (95 per cent c.i. –0·36 to 0·07) per cent per year, which was not statistically significant (P = 0·419). This finding was confirmed in the pooled results of the remaining cohorts and case series.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis of all oncological data from the published literature demonstrated that autologous fat transfer did not result in an increased rate of locoregional recurrence in patients with breast cancer. Autologous fat transfer can therefore be performed safely in breast reconstruction after breast cancer.
Strategic Expansion and Management of Chemical Libraries for Drug Discovery
Authors: Choi Inhee , Ko Yoonae , Lee Honggun , Kim Kideok , Radu Constantin
Published: June 2018

The extensive chemical space provides options of selecting molecules that are unique and diverse to build a truly custom made screening chemical library. Finding the right compound from a high‐throughput screening (HTS) that could be optimized to a drug candidate is no simple task. Selecting meaningful compounds from a multitude of commercially available compounds is critical; over the years Institut Pasteur Korea (IPK), whose mission is to eliminate the global threat of infectious disease, had built a selected chemical library of commercially available and proprietary compounds sensitive to encompass structural diversity aspect. To obtain structural diversity, lead‐like Bemis–Murcko substructures were generated from IPK legacy collections, and those compounds with different Bemis–Murcko substructures were selected. Furthermore, structural fingerprints were used to select diverse subsets of compounds. Based on the analyses of whole structures and substructures, we selected a diverse set to utilize against several infectious diseases models provided at IPK. We implemented a strategic approach to managing the chemical library by taking into consideration the stability of compounds while maintaining compounds integrity. Automated liquid handlers were used to compress and replicate the chemical libraries into various concentrations. Emerging infectious diseases are on the rise and unpredictable in the global health landscape; using unique and carefully selected compounds for screening can make a difference in finding our next drug candidate at IPK.
Hippocampal involvement in nonpathological déjà vu: Subfield vulnerability rather than temporal lobe epilepsy equivalent
Authors: Pešlová Eva , Mareček Radek , Shaw Daniel J. , Kašpárek Tomáš , Pail Martin , Brázdil Milan
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Morphological correlates of nonpathological déjà vu (DV) have been identified recently within the human brain. Significantly reduced gray matter volume (GMV) within a set of cortical and subcortical regions reported in subjects experiencing DV seems to mirror the distribution of GMV reduction in mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) patients but vary in terms of the hippocampus. Another condition associated with hippocampal GMV reduction and DV alike disturbance in memory processing is schizophrenia (SCH). Here, we tested the hypothesis that hippocampal involvement in nonpathological DV resembles more closely the pattern of GMV decrease observed in MTLE compared with that occurring in SCH.

Methods

Using automated segmentation of the MRI data we compared the medians of GMV within 12 specific hippocampal subfields in healthy individuals that do (DV+; N = 87) and do not report déjà vu experience (DV−; N = 26), and patients with MTLE (N = 47) and SCH (N = 29). By Pearson correlation, we then evaluated the similarity of MTLE and SCH groups to DV+ group with respect to spatial distribution of GMV deviation from DV− group.

Results

Significant GMV decrease was found in MTLE group in most of the subfields. There were just trends in the hippocampal GMV decrease found in DV+ or SCH groups. Concerning the spatial distribution of GMV decrease, we revealed statistically significant correlation for the left hippocampus for SCH vs DV+. Otherwise there was no statistically significant correlation.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal structural features of hippocampal involvement in nonpathological DV, MTLE, and SCH. Despite our expectations, the pattern of GMV reduction in the DV+ relative to the DV− group does not resemble the pattern observed in MTLE any more than that observed in SCH. The highly similar patterns of the three clinical groups rather suggest an increased vulnerability of certain hippocampal subfields; namely, Cornu Ammonis (CA)4, CA3, dentate gyrus granular cell layer (GC‐DG), hippocampal–amygdaloid transition area (HATA) and subiculum.
Prevalence and location of bone spurs in anterior ankle impingement: A cadaveric investigation
Authors: Talbot Christopher E. , Knapik Derrick M. , Miskovsky Shana N.
Published: June 2018

Anterior ankle impingement (AAI) results from repetitive microtrauma leading to pain and decreased dorsiflexion due to spur formation and synovial hypertrophy. Information about the prevalence of anterior spur formation in a large population, and the individual contributions of the talus and tibia to osseous impingement, is limited. A total of 670 ankle specimens from 344 individuals (n = 111 females, n = 233 males) aged 20 to 40 years at the time of death were examined. Matching tibia and talus were opposed and any spurring causing impingement was recorded. Spur locations were measured and ratios calculated to allow for inter‐specimen comparison between: (1) medial‐to‐lateral and anterior‐to‐posterior spur location versus dimensions of talar neck width, and (2) medial‐to‐lateral spur location to dimensions of distal anterior tibial width. Differences in spur prevalence in relation to sex, race, height and age were identified by univariant and multivariable statistical analyses. Bony impingement was observed in 21% (n = 72) of specimens, with bilateral involvement in 8% (n = 27). For ankles with AAI, spurs were seen on the talus only in 61%, on the tibia only in 14%, and on both the tibia and talus in 26%. Spurs were significantly more prevalent in males (P = 0.001) and with increasing specimen age (P = 0.002). There were no significant differences related to specimen height or race. Spurs were predominately located on the anterolateral talus (78%) and the anterolateral portion of the distal tibial margin (80%). AAI was present in 21% of young osseous specimens and was significantly more prevalent in males and with increasing specimen age. Clin. Anat. 31:1144–1150, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phytochemical, Free Radical Scavenging and Antifungal Profile of Cuscuta campestrisYunck. Seeds
Authors: Jakovljević Violeta D. , Vrvić Miroslav M. , Vrbničanin Sava , Sarić‐Krsmanović Marija
Published: June 2018

This work was conceptualized with the goal to investigate the phytochemical, free radical scavenging and antifungal profile of Cuscuta campestrisYunck. seeds. Total phenolics, amino acid and carbohydrate contents were evaluated in ethanolic, acetone and chloroform extract. Effective antioxidant activity was evaluated throughout seven antioxidant methods. The antifungal activity was assessed against eight fungal strains and Candida albicans. The results showed total phenol, flavonoid, flavonols and phenolic acids contents in amount of 1.51 – 6.35 mg GAE/mL, 78 – 425 μg RU/mL, 1.04 – 2.98 mg QU/g and 12.01 – 30.58 μg CAE/mL, respectively. The total amino acids and carbohydrates content ranged from 8.29 to 185.45 μg Gly/mL and from 0.05 to 0.12 μg Glu/mL. The ethanolic extract showed the best antioxidant activity in phosphomolybdenum, DPPH free radical scavenging, ferric reducing power and lipid peroxidation assays. The best activity in ferrous ion chelating and H2O2 assays had the acetone extract, whereas the best hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was observed with the chloroform extract. The ethanolic extract at a concentration of 6 mg/mL proved to be the most effective antimycotic, since it inhibited the growth of all tested fungi except Penicillium verrucosum. The obtained results indicate that C. campestris seeds could be attributed to a potential source of natural antioxidants in food and pharmaceutical products.
New Vistas on the Recruiting of Ferrous Iron and Dioxygen by Ferritins: A Case Study of the Escherichia coli 24‐mer Ferritin by All‐Atom Molecular Dynamics in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Pietra Francesco
Published: June 2018

It is shown here that Fe2+ and O2 ligands are displaced from the ferroxidase center of the C1 four‐helix bundle of E. coli 24‐mer ferritin under molecular dynamics (MD) aided by a randomly oriented external force applied to the ligand. Under these conditions, ligand egress toward the external aqueous medium occurs preferentially from the same four‐helix bundle, in the case of O2, or other bundle, in the case of Fe2. Viewing ligand egress from the protein as the microscopic reverse of ligand influx into the protein under unbiased MD, these findings challenge current views that preferential gates for recruitment of Fe2+ are 3‐fold channels with human ferritin, or the short path from the ferroxidase center to H93 with bacterial ferritins.
Understanding faculty training in competency‐based curriculum development
Authors: Echols Diana Gilmer , Neely Patricia W. , Dusick Diane
Published: June 2018

Background

Competency‐based (CBE) programs have increased significantly over the past decade in response to a changing higher education environment. This dramatic increase in CBE programs has been supported by faculty tasked with developing curriculum composed of competency statements, assessment strategies, and learning content. Yet, little is known about the types of training and support provided to faculty and faculty‐perceived levels of competence in CBE curriculum development.

Methods

This study used a convenience sample to gather survey data from 70 faculty members who had developed CBE curriculum. Participants provided information on the CBE components developed, types of training received, and hours spent in training. Each faculty member also identified his or her perceived level of competence in content development, assessment development, collaboration skills, technical skills, and communication skills. A correlation analysis was used to compare training histories with perceived levels of competence in the five skill areas identified.

Findings

Results suggest that the type of training a faculty member receives affects his or her perceived levels of confidence in CBE curriculum development skills. A significant relationship between total hours of training and level of competence was indicated with four types of training: one‐on‐one training with an expert, webinars, phone conferences, and self‐study.

Conclusion

The most important conclusion is the result of the final hypothesis: there is a significant positive relationship between motivating students (faculty) to engage and level of competence. Both student (faculty) retention and success are related to higher levels of engagement (Tools for teaching, 2nd ed. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc; 2009).
Cobalt/Carbon Nanocomposite as Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalyst
Authors: Biegun Marcin , Chen Xuecheng , Mijowska Ewa
Published: June 2018

Electrocatalysts based on cobalt are promising catalytic materials for water electrolysis. In this work, We reported a catalyst composed of cobalt nanoparticles embeded in a carbon lattice through synthesis with a cationic polymer (PEI) and carbonization process at three temperatures (800, 900 and 1000 °C). The material obtained at 1000 °C showed the highest activity towards the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in an alkaline medium (1 M KOH). Moreover, the OER overpotential required to reach 10 mA cm−2 of 296 mV, was lower than for the commercial RuO2 catalyst. Further, the material also exhibited very good stability in a long‐term stability test at 10 mA cm−2.
Surface Adsorption of Polyethylene Glycol to Suppress Dendrite Formation on Zinc Anodes in Rechargeable Aqueous Batteries
Authors: Mitha Aly , Yazdi Alireza Z. , Ahmed Moin , Chen Pu
Published: June 2018

Aqueous metal batteries routinely suffer from the dendritic growth at the anode, leading to significant capacity fading and ultimately, battery failure from short‐circuit. Herein, we utilize polyethylene glycol to regulate dendrite growth and improve the long‐term cycling stability of an aqueous rechargeable lithium/zinc battery. PEG200 in the electrolyte decreases the corrosion and chronoamperometric current densities of the zinc electrode up to four‐fold. Batteries with pre‐grown dendrites also perform significantly better when PEG is present in the electrolyte (41.4 mAh g−1 vs. 7.9 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles). X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy studies show that dendrites in the PEG‐containing electrolyte have been inhibited, leading to much smaller/smoother surface features than those of the control. The facile preparation process of the aqueous electrolyte combined with low cost and vast performance improvement in batteries of all sizes indicates high upscaling viability.
Freeze‐Drying‐Assisted Synthesis of Porous SnO2/rGO Xerogels as Anode Materials for Highly Reversible Lithium/Sodium Storage
Authors: Ma Chao , Jiang Jialin , Xu Tingting , Ji Hongmei , Yang Yang , Yang Gang
Published: June 2018

Three‐dimensional porous SnO2/rGO xerogels with superior cycling performance in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are fabricated through a freeze‐drying‐assisted method. SnO2 nanoparticles (5 nm in diameter) are homogeneously attached to the surface of graphene sheets without self‐aggregation. The heterostructured SnO2/rGO xerogel possesses numerous micron‐sized pores that can efficiently buffer the volumetric change of SnO2 during the charge/discharge process and provide multidimensional channels, improving the conductivity between active materials and electrolyte. The SnO2/rGO xerogel exhibits excellent electrochemical performance, both in LIBs and SIBs, owing to its particular porous structure. For LIBs, it delivers a high initial discharge capacity of 1670.5 mAh g−1 in the first cycle and remains at 1139.4 mAh g−1 after 166 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g−1. The SnO2/rGO xerogel also delivers a high discharge capacity of 189.4 mAh g−1 without capacity loss over 266 cycles at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 for SIBs. The SnO2/rGO xerogel can be used as an electrode material in both LIBs and SIBs, and can maintain an excellent rate performance and cyclic performance, owing to the abundant porosity and high conductivity.
Experimental analysis of bi‐directional pile static load test
Authors: BERISAVLJEVIĆ Dušan , FILIPOVIĆ Vladimir , STANISAVLJEVIĆ Nenad , BERISAVLJEVIĆ Zoran
Published: June 2018

The paper presents the results of the Osterberg load tests performed at Belgrade Waterfront test site. Test results enabled evaluation of side friction and end bearing of the limestone/marlstone formation otherwise difficult to access. Mobilized side friction is several times larger than the side friction commonly used in design by practitioners for the large diameter drilled shafts. High pressure O‐cells manage to achieve 60 MN load (30 MN in each direction) which is significantly higher than specified design load.
The use of the grading entropy as a measure of the soil texture maturity
Authors: IMRE Emoke , FITYUS Stephen
Published: June 2018

In this study, the concept of grading entropy is applied to evaluate the textural evolution of waste rocks at the surface of rehabilitated mine dumps. A series of mine‐spoil samples that were collected from topsoils and subsoils at sites of mine rehabilitation that had been established for different periods of time. According to the results, the increase in particle degradation which occurs nearer to the rehabilitated surface could be observed in changes in the grading curve, and numerically accounted for through changes in the grading entropy. The samples showed similar trends to the soils in many fragmentation problems: a near‐fractal distribution, outside of the unstable zone of the grading entropy diagram. The samples plotted in the transitional stability zone, with the most stable sample being the natural sub soil. However, unlike fragmentation by crushing, the largest fragments were not necessarily preserved through a cushioning by the smaller particles.
Role of the Relative Humidity and the Cd/Zn Stoichiometry in the Photooxidation Process of Cadmium Yellows (CdS/Cd1−xZnxS) in Oil Paintings
Authors: Monico Letizia , Chieli Annalisa , De Meyer Steven , Cotte Marine , de Nolf Wout , Falkenberg Gerald , Janssens Koen , Romani Aldo , Miliani Costanza
Published: June 2018

Cadmium yellows (CdYs) refer to a family of cadmium sulfide pigments, which have been widely used by artists since the late 19th century. Despite being considered stable, they are suffering from discoloration in iconic paintings, such as Joy of Life by Matisse, Flowers in a blue vase by Van Gogh, and The Scream by Munch, most likely due to the formation of CdSO4⋅n H2O. The driving factors of the CdYs degradation and how these affect the overall process are still unknown. Here, we study a series of oil mock‐up paints made of CdYs of different stoichiometry (CdS/Cd0.76Zn0.24S) and crystalline structure (hexagonal/cubic) before and after aging at variable relative humidity under exposure to light and in darkness. Synchrotron radiation‐based X‐ray methods combined with UV‐Vis and FTIR spectroscopy show that: 1) Cd0.76Zn0.24S is more susceptible to photooxidation than CdS; both compounds can act as photocatalysts for the oil oxidation. 2) The photooxidation of CdS/Cd0.76Zn0.24S to CdSO4⋅n H2O is triggered by moisture. 3) The nature of alteration products depends on the aging conditions and the Cd/Zn stoichiometry. Based on our findings, we propose a scheme for the mechanism of the photocorrosion process and the photocatalytic activity of CdY pigments in the oil binder. Overall, our results form a reliable basis for understanding the degradation of CdS‐based paints in artworks and contribute towards developing better ways of preserving them for future generations.
Porous Molybdenum Carbide Nanorods as Novel “Bifunctional” Cathode Material for Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhao , Liu Jia , Sun Liqun , Zhang Yuhang , Fu Qiang , Xie Haiming , Sun Hao
Published: June 2018

The shuttle effect of polysulfide is the primary obstacle in Li‐S batteries. Although some effort has been made to suppress the shuttle process, more highly conductive materials with stronger adsorption ability to polysulfides are still in urgent demand. Another important problem is the deteriorating performance of Li‐S batteries with prolonged cycling owing to irreversible deposition of lithium sulfide (Li2S). However, a host material for the effective conversion of insoluble Li2S has been elusive up to now. Herein, porous molybdenum carbide nanorods (Mo2C NRs), with high catalytic activity for Li2S and ultrastrong adsorption for polysulfides, are used as a “bifunctional” host material and incorporated into sulfur cathodes for the first time. The “bifunctional” Mo2C NRs have the advantage of immobilizing polysulfides over the conventional host, with adsorption energies from −4.89 to −8.20 eV for Li2Sx (x=1, 2, 4, 6, and 8). The electrochemical analysis shows that Mo2C NRs, more than an anchor, can activate Li2S by greatly reducing the charging overpotential. Therefore, the irreversible deposition of polysulfides is effectively restrained and the utilization of Li2S is clearly enhanced. The Mo2C NRs–sulfur composites (Mo2C NRs‐S) cathodes provide a capacity of 1298 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C in the Li‐S batteries. More importantly, the battery with Mo2C NRs‐S cathodes exhibits a much lower capacity decay of 0.062 % per cycle at 1 C over 500 cycles.
Solvent‐Triggered Reversible Phase Changes in Two Manganese‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks and Associated Sensing Events
Authors: Huang Yike , Zhang Jun , Yue Dan , Cui Yuanjing , Yang Yu , Li Bin , Qian Guodong
Published: June 2018

A flexible Mn‐based MOF, Mn‐sdc‐1, has been successfully synthesized by using the ligand 4,4′‐stilbenedicarboxylic acid (H2sdc). Attributed to the flexibility of the framework, Mn‐sdc‐1 can transform into a new phase (Mn‐sdc‐2) with completely different structural geometry; this is induced by trace levels of H2O at room temperature. Reversibly, the transformation from Mn‐sdc‐2 to Mn‐sdc‐1 can be triggered by DMF upon heating beyond 100 °C. These results inspired a study of the influences of temperature and H2O volume in the solid‐state transformation of two MOF phases and, for the first time, a phase diagram of MOFs has been depicted. This phase diagram reflects the gradual H2O‐/temperature‐dependent changes between Mn‐sdc‐1 and Mn‐sdc‐2, which is very meaningful in achieving the controllable synthesis of these two MOFs and lead to targeting the desired water‐stable structure. As a result, the obtained water‐stable Mn‐sdc‐2 can be developed as an excellent Pb2+ sensor in aqueous solution through the luminescence quenching effect with a limit of detection of 31.4 nm.