bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activated Neutral Alumina as a Simple and Reusable Catalyst for the Synthesis of N,N‐Bis[(alkyl/arylthio)methyl]amines: A Solid‐Supported Protocol Under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Mondal Animesh , Mukhopadhyay Chhanda
Published: August 2017

We developed a straightforward and environmentally benign process for the synthesis of N,N‐bis[(alkyl/arylthio)methyl]amines using neutral alumina as a highly effective and reusable catalyst under solvent‐free conditions. It was found that the use of neutral alumina afforded the desired products in shorter times and in better yields compared to traditional methodologies, perhaps with the help of water molecules trapped into the grooves of the alumina.
Ultrathin Cell‐Membrane‐Mimic Phosphorylcholine Polymer Film Coating Enables Large Improvements for In Vivo Electrochemical Detection
Authors: Liu Xiaomeng , Xiao Tongfang , Wu Fei , Shen Mo‐Yuan , Zhang Meining , Yu Hsiao‐hua , Mao Lanqun
Published: August 2017

Resisting biomolecule adsorption onto the surface of brain‐implanted microelectrodes is a key issue for in vivo monitoring of neurochemicals. Herein, we demonstrate that an ultrathin cell‐membrane‐mimic film of ethylenedioxythiophene tailored with zwitterionic phosphorylcholine (EDOT‐PC) electropolymerized onto the surface of a carbon fiber microelectrode (CFE) not only resists protein adsorption but also maintains the sensitivity and time response for in vivo monitoring of dopamine (DA). As a consequence, the as‐prepared PEDOT‐PC/CFEs could be used as a new reliable platform for tracking DA in vivo and would help understand the physiological and pathological functions of DA.
Radical‐Enhanced Charge Transport in Single‐Molecule Phenothiazine Electrical Junctions
Authors: Liu Junyang , Zhao Xiaotao , Al‐Galiby Qusiy , Huang Xiaoyan , Zheng Jueting , Li Ruihao , Huang Cancan , Yang Yang , Shi Jia , Manrique David Zsolt , Lambert Colin J. , Bryce Martin R. , Hong Wenjing
Published: August 2017

We studied the single‐molecule conductance through an acid oxidant triggered phenothiazine (PTZ‐) based radical junction using the mechanically controllable break junction technique. The electrical conductance of the radical state was enhanced by up to 200 times compared to the neutral state, with high stability lasting for at least two months and high junction formation probability at room‐temperature. Theoretical studies revealed that the conductance increase is due to a significant decrease of the HOMO–LUMO gap and also the enhanced transmission close to the HOMO orbital when the radical forms. The large conductance enhancement induced by the formation of the stable PTZ radical molecule will lead to promising applications in single‐molecule electronics and spintronics.
Influence of Surface Morphology and Conductivity on Photocatalytic Performance of Solution‐Processed Zinc Oxide Film
Authors: Hong Jeongsoo , Matsushita Nobuhiro , Shirai Takashi , Nakata Kazuya , Terashima Chiaki , Fujishima Akira , Katsumata Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2017

Solution‐processed ZnO films with various structures have been fabricated and the influence of surface morphology and conductivity on photocatalytic performance, including improvement of conductivity, hydrogen production, and photodegradation of rhodamine B, has been investigated. Surface morphology was controlled by solution conditions, and as‐fabricated films had rod, dense, and flower‐like structures. Improved conductivity was revealed by the photocatalytic activity of ZnO, the influence of surface morphology on the photodegradation of rhodamine B, and the relationship with conductivity and hydrogen production.
The Role of Inference in Attribute Framing Effects
Authors: Leong Lim M. , McKenzie Craig R. M. , Sher Shlomi , Müller‐Trede Johannes
Published: August 2017

Previous research has shown that a speaker's choice between logically equivalent frames is influenced by reference point information, and that listeners draw accurate inferences based on the frame. Less clear, however, is whether these inferences play a causal role in generating attribute framing effects. Two experiments are reported, which suggest that frame‐dependent inferences are sufficient to generate attribute framing effects, and that blocking such inferences may block framing effects. Experiment 1 decomposed the typical framing design into two parts: One group of participants saw a target described in one of two attribute frames and reported their estimates (inferences) of the typical attribute value. These estimates were then given to a second group of yoked participants, who evaluated the target. Although this latter group was not exposed to different attribute frames, they nevertheless exhibited a “framing effect” as a result of receiving systematically different inferences. In contrast, Experiment 2 shows that experts—who are familiar with an attribute's distribution and are therefore less likely to draw strong frame‐based inferences—exhibit a diminished framing effect. Together, these findings underscore the role of inferences in the generation and attenuation of attribute framing effects. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optical Projection Tomography with a Tissue Clearing Agent for Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology Studies
Authors: Magsam Alexander W. , Johnson Michael , Villani Thomas , Pierce Mark C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Developmental and reproductive toxicology (DART) testing represents an expensive and time‐consuming stage in determining the toxicological profile of new chemical entities. Within DART studies, morphological evaluation of fetal skeletons for developmental abnormalities typically requires 7 to 14 days. Current processing techniques involve digestion of soft tissue using a strong base (KOH), followed by qualitative assessment of the remaining skeletal tissue by a fetal morphologist. Micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) has been proposed as a nondestructive image‐based alternative for quantitative assessment of skeletal morphology. Such methods eliminate the need for extensive tissue processing and can be paired with quantitative analysis algorithms. However, due to the significant capital and operational expenses required for micro‐CT imaging, this approach has yet to gain widespread traction and regulatory acceptance.

Methods

A novel tissue clearing agent was used in 1‐week‐old rats to render soft tissue optically transparent. Alizarin red was used to stain the skeleton. High dynamic range optical trans‐illumination images were then acquired with an optical‐CT imaging system and rendered as three‐dimensional images of skeletal structure.

Results

High dynamic range–based optical‐CT imaging of chemically cleared tissues can rapidly generate high resolution (50–250 μm) reconstructions of whole skeletons.

Conclusion

In summary, this study demonstrates that the combination of tissue clearing, optical imaging, and novel reconstruction algorithms may present a new paradigm for high‐throughput evaluation of tissues in DART testing. Birth Defects Research 110:12–16, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modular Polyoxometalate–Layered Double Hydroxides as Efficient Heterogeneous Sulfoxidation and Epoxidation Catalysts
Authors: Li Tengfei , Zhang Wei , Chen Wei , Miras Haralampos N. , Song Yu‐Fei
Published: August 2017

The selective sulfoxidation of sulfides and the epoxidation of olefins are two types of important organic reactions, and the corresponding products of sulfoxides, sulfones and epoxides are used widely as raw materials in industrial processes. The fabrication of one efficient catalyst for both reactions remains a challenging task. We report the preparation of a highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst Mg3Al‐ILs‐La(PW11)2 using an exfoliation/assembly approach. The catalyst was characterised by FT‐IR spectroscopy, XRD, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis, BET measurements, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, 29Si cross‐polarisation magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy, 27Al magic‐angle spinning NMR spectroscopy, SEM, high‐resolution TEM, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The designed catalyst showed a high efficiency and selectivity for the sulfoxidation of sulfides and the epoxidation of olefins under mild conditions at a production rate of 208 and 31 mmol g−1 h−1, respectively. Moreover, Mg3Al‐ILs‐La(PW11)2 can be recycled and re‐used at least five times without a clear decrease of its catalytic activity. The scaled‐up experiments revealed that the catalyst retained its efficiency and robustness, which demonstrates the great potential of the catalyst for industrial applications.
Potential‐Driven On/Off Switch Strategy for the Electrosynthesis of [7]Helicene‐Derived Polymers
Authors: Hrbáč Jan , Strašák Tomáš , Fekete Ladislav , Ladányi Vít , Pokorný Jan , Bulíř Jiří , Krbal Miloš , Žádný Jaroslav , Storch Jan , Vacek Jan
Published: August 2017

New materials bearing thiophene and helicene moieties were prepared by using a potential‐driven on/off switch strategy on the surface of glassy carbon and indium tin oxide substrates. Specifically, a 3‐([7]helicen‐9‐yl)‐thiophene hybrid monomer was electrooxidized in acetonitrile by using cyclic voltammetry with anodic potential limits of +1.5 or +2.5 V, resulting in a conductive and non‐conductive polymer, respectively. The electrochemical findings were supplemented by microscopy investigations, UV/Vis, fluorescence and vibrational spectroscopies, and 1H NMR spectroscopy as well as ellipsometry measurements and computational chemistry. The electrodeposited polymers could be used for the further development of materials applicable in organic electronics, optoelectronics, and sensing technologies.
Modular Bi‐Directional One‐Pot Strategies for the Diastereoselective Synthesis of Structurally Diverse Collections of Constrained β‐Carboline‐Benzoxazepines
Authors: Srinivasulu Vunnam , Mazitschek Ralph , Kariem Noor M. , Reddy Amarnath , Rabeh Wael M. , Li Liang , O'Connor Matthew John , Al‐Tel Taleb H.
Published: August 2017

The development of robust and efficient strategies to access structurally diverse drug‐like compound collections remains an important challenge for small molecule probe development and drug discovery. Following a build/couple/pair strategy we have established bidirectional approach to unprecedented benzoxazepines by employing a Pictet–Spengler/aza‐Michael addition cascade and Schiff base/aza‐Michael addition/reduction protocols, respectively. The corresponding β‐carboline‐fused benzoxazepines and peripherally substituted benzoxazepines are isolated in high diastereoselectivity, good to excellent yields and have, to the best of our knowledge, never been reported.
In vivo Evaluation of an Engineered Cyclotide as Specific CXCR4 Imaging Reagent
Authors: Lesniak Wojciech G. , Aboye Teshome , Chatterjee Samit , Camarero Julio A. , Nimmagadda Sridhar
Published: August 2017

The CXCR4 chemokine receptor plays a key regulatory role in many biological functions, including embryonic development and controlling leukocyte functions during inflammation and immunity. CXCR4 has been also associated with multiple types of cancers where its overexpression/activation promotes metastasis, angiogenesis, and tumor growth and/or survival. Furthermore, CXCR4 is involved in HIV replication, as it is a co‐receptor for viral entry into host cells. Altogether, these features make CXCR4 a very attractive target for the development of imaging and therapeutic agents. Here, the in vivo evaluation of the MCoTI‐based cyclotide, MCo‐CVX‐5c, for the development of imaging agents that target CXCR4 is reported. Cyclotide MCo‐CVX‐5c is a potent CXCR4 antagonist with a remarkable in vivo resistance to biological degradation in serum. A [64Cu]‐DOTA‐labeled version of this cyclotide demonstrated high and significant uptake in U87‐stb‐CXCR4 tumors compared to the control U87 tumors. Furthermore, protracted imaging studies demonstrated radiotracer retention in the U87‐stb‐CXCR4 tumor at 24 h post injection. Uptake in U87‐stb‐CXCR4 tumors could be blocked by unlabeled MCo‐CVX‐5c, showing high in vivo specificity. These results demonstrate the in vivo specificity and retention of a bioactive molecularly targeted cyclotide and highlight the potential of bioactive cyclotides for the development of new imaging agents that target CXCR4.
Kinetic Studies on Formic Acid Dehydrogenation Catalyzed by an Iridium Complex towards Insights into the Catalytic Mechanism of High‐Pressure Hydrogen Gas Production
Authors: Iguchi Masayuki , Zhong Heng , Himeda Yuichiro , Kawanami Hajime
Published: August 2017

Kinetic studies on the catalytic reaction mechanism of formic acid (FA) dehydrogenation were performed in the presence of a water‐soluble iridium complex bearing a 4,4′‐dihydroxy‐2,2′‐bipyridine ligand. Determination of kinetic isotope effects revealed that a shift of the rate‐limiting step at low and high concentrations of FA can be caused by the pH dependence of the reaction steps. The proposed equation for the reaction rate corresponds well with the experimental results concerning the shift phenomena. Towards industrial application in future hydrogen fueling stations, this will able the design of a dehydrogenation system catalyzed by the iridium complex.
Regiodivergent Remote Arylation of Cycloalkanols to Dysideanone′s Fused Carbotetracycles and Its Bridged Isomers
Authors: Haque Md Ashraful , Jana Chandan K.
Published: August 2017

Regiodivergent γ and γ′ arylations across an all‐carbon quaternary center of cycloalkanols to access enantioenriched fused and bridged carbotetracycles are reported. The conformation of the carbocation guided either sequential stereospecific β‐C‐Me/γ‐C−H‐shifts or β‐C‐Me/γ′‐C−H‐shifts, providing fused carbotetracyclic analogs of dysideanone or bridged tetracycles, respectively. The reaction is highly stereoselective in building three contiguous stereocenters, where one, two, or three could be all‐carbon quaternary centers. Interestingly, mechanistic studies revealed a crucial role of a methyl substituent in controlling regioselectivity.
Amorphous Transition Metal Sulfides Anchored on Amorphous Carbon‐Coated Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes for Enhanced Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Jin Rencheng , Zhai Qinghe , Wang Qingyao
Published: August 2017

Cobalt sulfide and molybdenum sulfide, with high theoretical capacities, have been considered as one of most promising anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the poor cyclability and low rate performances originating from the large volume expansion and poor electrical conductivity extremely inhibit their practical application. Here, the electrochemical performances are effectively improved by growing amorphous cobalt sulfide and molybdenum sulfide onto amorphous carbon‐coated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs@C@CoS2 and CNTs@C@MoS2). The CNTs@C@CoS2 presents a high reversible specific capacity of 1252 mAh g−1 at 0.2 Ag−1, excellent rate performance of 672 mAh g−1 (5 Ag−1), and enhanced cycle life of 598 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 2 Ag−1. For CNTs@C@MoS2, it exhibits a specific capacity of 1395 mAh g−1, superior rate performance of 727 mAh g−1 at 5 Ag−1, and long cycle stability (796 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 2 Ag−1). The enhanced electrochemical properties of the electrodes are probably ascribed to their amorphous nature, the combination of CNTs@C that adhered and hindered the agglomeration of CoS2 and MoS2 as well as the enhanced electronic conductivity.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed [3+2] Cycloaddition of Enals with Masked Cinnamates for the Asymmetric One‐Pot Synthesis of Adipic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Chen Xiang‐Yu , Li Sun , Sheng He , Liu Qiang , Jafari Ehsan , von Essen Carolina , Rissanen Kari , Enders Dieter
Published: August 2017

A novel short entry to 3,4‐disubstituted adipic acids has been developed by employing an asymmetric NHC‐catalyzed [3+2] cycloaddition of enals with masked cinnammates in moderate to good yields and high stereoselectivities. The synthetic utility of the protocol was demonstrated by the basic conversion of the masked cyclopentanone intermediates to 3S,4S‐disubstituted adipic acid precursors of pharmaceutically important gababutins.
Synthesis and cytotoxicity of (R)‐ and (S)‐ricinoleic acid amides and their acetates
Authors: Matysiak Sylwia , Chmiel Agnieszka , Skolimowski Janusz , Kula Jozef , Pasternak Beata , Blaszczyk Alina
Published: August 2017

An environment‐friendly, free of solvent, process for the synthesis of (R)‐ and (S)‐ricinoleic acid amides has been developed. Starting from methyl ricinoleates and pyrrolidine or ethanolamine, the corresponding amides were obtained with yields ranging from 83–88%. Among 12 synthesized derivatives of ricinoleic acid, including the starting methyl esters, amides, and their acetates, nine compounds were obtained and tested for the first time. Studies on ricinoleic acid derivatives cytotoxicity showed that methyl esters were the least cytotoxic compounds and modification of their structure resulted in increasing cytotoxicity of the obtained products against both cancer cells and normal lymphocytes. Both enantiomers of the ethanolamine‐derived amides showed the most promising anticancer potential.
Contribution of the cytoskeleton to mechanosensitivity reported by dinoflagellate bioluminescence
Authors: Stires J. C. , Latz M. I.
Published: August 2017

The cytoskeleton is crucial to cell mechanics and sensing the extracellular physical environment. The objective of this study was to examine the role of the cortical cytoskeleton in mechanosensitivity in a unicellular protist, the marine dinoflagellate Lingulodinium polyedra, using its intrinsic bioluminescence as a rapid reporter of mechanotransduction. Pharmacological treatments resolved effects due to immediate cytoskeleton disruption from those due to cytoskeletal remodeling during the light to dark phase transition. The cytoskeleton was visualized by confocal laser scanning microscopy of immunohistochemically labeled microtubules and phalloidin labeled F‐actin, and mechanosensitivity assessed based on the bioluminescence response to mechanical stimulation measured during the dark phase. Latrunculin B treatment after the transition from the light to dark phase resulted in some disruption of cortical F‐actin, no observed effect on the cortical microtubules, and partial inhibition of the bioluminescence response. Treatment with oryzalin, which depolarizes microtubules, completely disrupted the microtubule network and cortical F‐actin, and partially inhibited bioluminescence. These results demonstrate that cells retain some mechanosensitivity despite a disrupted cytoskeleton; link mechanosensitivity to intact F‐actin; show a close connection between F‐actin and microtubules comprising the cortical cytoskeleton; confirm a strong contribution of the actin cytoskeleton to the translocation of scintillons, vesicles containing the luminescent chemistry; and support the role of the actin cytoskeleton in the association of scintillons with the vacuole membrane.
Bridging Pharmaceutical Chemistry with Drug and Nanoparticle Targeting to Investigate the Role of the 18‐kDa Translocator Protein TSPO
Authors: Iacobazzi Rosa Maria , Lopalco Antonio , Cutrignelli Annalisa , Laquintana Valentino , Lopedota Angela , Franco Massimo , Denora Nunzio
Published: August 2017

An interesting mitochondrial biomarker is the 18‐kDa mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO). Decades of study have shown that this protein plays an important role in a wide range of cellular functions, including opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore as well as programmed cell death and proliferation. Variations in TSPO expression have been correlated to different diseases, from tumors to endocrine and neurological disorders. TSPO has therefore become an appealing target for both early diagnosis and selective mitochondrial drug delivery. The number of structurally different TSPO ligands examined has increased over time, highlighting the scientific community′s growing understanding of the roles of TSPO in normal and pathological conditions. However, only few TSPO ligands are characterized by the presence of groups that are potentially derivatizable; therefore only few such ligands are well suited for the preparation of targeted prodrugs or nanocarriers able to deliver therapeutics and/or diagnostic agents to mitochondria. This review provides an overview of the very few examples of drug delivery systems characterized by moieties that target TSPO.
Microphysiological Systems to Assess Nonclinical Toxicity
Authors: Van Ness Kirk P. , Chang Shih‐Yu , Weber Elijah J. , Zumpano Danielle , Eaton David L. , Kelly Edward J.
Published: August 2017

The liver and the kidney are key toxicity target organs during drug development campaigns, as they typically carry the burden of drug transport and metabolism. Primary hepatocytes and proximal tubule epithelial cells grown in traditional in vitro 2‐D culture systems do not maintain transporter and metabolic functions, thus limiting their utility for nonclinical toxicology investigations. We have developed a renal and hepatic microphysiological system (MPS) platform that uses a commercially available MPS device as the core cell culture platform for our methodologies. We describe protocols for isolating and propagating human proximal epithelial cells and how to seed and culture a renal MPS to recapitulate the human proximal tubule. We present two methods to culture hepatocytes within an MPS and the steps required to connect a renal MPS to a liver MPS. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Clinicopathological significance of atypical glandular cells on cervicovaginal Pap smears
Authors: Kim Mi‐Kyung , Lee Yoo Kyung , Hong Sung Ran , Lim Kyung Taek
Published: August 2017

Objective

To evaluate the histologic correlation and clinical significance of atypical glandular cells (AGC) detected on Pap tests.

Methods

Pap tests interpreted as AGC were retrieved from an institutional cytopathology database. The AGC subcategories according to the Bethesda system 2001 include atypical glandular cells, not otherwise specified (AGC‐NOS), atypical endometrial cells (AEM), and atypical endocervical cells (AEC). Clinicopathologic variables were collected from medical records retrospectively, and histologic follow‐up diagnoses were correlated with AGC subcategories.

Results

From January 2009 to December 2014, 741 (0.17%) of 435 778 cervical smears were interpreted as AGC. Of 713 cases included in the study analysis, the distribution of AGC subcategories was as follows: AGC 15.3%, AEM 59.6%, and AEC 25.1%. Of 508 cases with histologic follow‐up results, 33.9% of cases were diagnosed to have clinically significant lesions, which include cervical squamous or glandular neoplasia (1.4% and 10.0%), endometrial neoplasia (21.5%), and other metastatic carcinoma (1.0%). Endometrial neoplasia was the most common significant pathology in women aged ≥40 years (28.4%), whereas cervical glandular neoplasia was the most commonly diagnosed lesion in women aged <40 years (14.5%, P < 0.001). When considering past histories which could affect the Pap results, IUD use (10.3%) and pregnancy (7.3%) were most frequently documented. Although IUD users showed low prevalence of significant pathology (2.6%), AGC cases related with pregnancy preceded significant pathologic lesions in 14.3%.

Conclusions

The relatively high incidence of significant neoplasia linked to AGC emphasizes the importance of adherence to the AGC management guidelines which recommend early and intensive investigation using multiple testing modalities.
FUCCI tracking shows cell‐cycle‐dependent Neurog3 variation in pancreatic progenitors
Authors: Bechard Matthew E. , Bankaitis Eric D. , Ustione Alessandro , Piston David W. , Magnuson Mark A. , Wright Christopher V.E.
Published: August 2017

During pancreas organogenesis, Neurog3HI endocrine‐committing cells are generated from a population of Sox9+ mitotic progenitors with only a low level of Neurog3 transcriptional activity (Neurog3TA.LO). Low‐level Neurog3 protein, in Neurog3TA.LO cells, is required to maintain their mitotic endocrine‐lineage‐primed status. Herein, we describe a Neurog3‐driven FUCCI cell‐cycle reporter (Neurog3P2A.FUCCI) derived from a Neurog3 BAC transgenic reporter that functions as a loxed cassette acceptor (LCA). In cycling Sox9+ Neurog3TA.LO progenitors, the majority of cells in S‐G2‐M phases have undetectable levels of Neurog3 with increased expression of endocrine progenitor markers, while those in G1 have low Neurog3 levels with increased expression of endocrine differentiation markers. These findings support a model in which variations in Neurog3 protein levels are coordinated with cell‐cycle phase progression in Neurog3TA.LO progenitors with entrance into G1 triggering a concerted effort, beyond increasing Neurog3 levels, to maintain an endocrine‐lineage‐primed state by initiating expression of the downstream endocrine differentiation program prior to endocrine‐commitment.
Group psychotherapy for eating disorders: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Grenon Renee , Schwartze Dominique , Hammond Nicole , Ivanova Iryna , Mcquaid Nancy , Proulx Genevieve , Tasca Giorgio A.
Published: August 2017

Objective

In the current meta‐analysis, we review the effect of group psychotherapy compared to both wait‐list controls and other active treatments for adults with eating disorders (EDs).

Method

Twenty‐seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that provide direct comparisons with a total of 1,853 participants were included.

Results

Group psychotherapy is significantly more effective than wait‐list controls at achieving abstinence rates of binge eating and/or purging (RR = 5.51, 95% CI: 3.73, 8.12), decreasing the frequency of binge eating and/or purging (g = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.90), and reducing related ED psychopathology (g = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.32, 0.66) after treatment. The effects of group psychotherapy and other active treatments (e.g., behavioral weight loss, self‐help, individual psychotherapy) did not differ on any outcome at post‐treatment or at follow‐ups. Group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of group psychotherapy did not differ significantly on outcomes at any time point.

Discussion

Additional research is needed to evaluate other group psychotherapy approaches, along with CBT, to provide more evidence‐based treatment options for individuals with an ED. Group psychotherapy appears as effective as other common treatments and is perhaps more cost‐effective than the most popular treatment, individual psychotherapy. Only 8.33% of comparisons in the current meta‐analysis had at least 80% power to detect a moderate effect (d = .50) and we recommend that future RCTs be adequately powered.
Below‐ and above‐ground effects of deadwood and termites in plantation forests
Authors: Ulyshen Michael D. , Shefferson Richard , Horn Scott , Taylor Melanie K. , Bush Bryana , Brownie Cavell , Seibold Sebastian , Strickland Michael S.
Published: August 2017

Deadwood is an important legacy structure in managed forests, providing continuity in shelter and resource availability for many organisms and acting as a vehicle by which nutrients can be passed from one stand to the next following a harvest. Despite existing at the interface between below‐ and above‐ground systems, however, much remains unknown about the role woody debris plays in linking these zones. Moreover, it remains untested whether the accelerative effects of wood‐feeding insects on wood decomposition influence tree growth or nutritional status in forests. In this study, we added different quantities of pine logs to the bases of saplings in two‐year‐old loblolly pine (Pinus taedaL.) plantations in Mississippi,USA. We included a treatment in which subterranean termites (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae:Reticulitermes) were excluded from logs to determine how these insects affect the release of nutrients from wood and, in turn, tree growth. After 51 months of decomposition, we quantified below‐ground effects by measuring microbial biomass, plant‐available forms of N, and ectomycorrhizal diversity associated with fine tree roots. Meanwhile, above‐ground measurements focused on the elemental concentrations in decomposing wood either protected or unprotected from termites and tree metrics related to growth and nutrient status. We found additions of wood to significantly increase nitrate and potential net nitrification relative to reference treatments but detected no significant effects on tree growth, needle nitrogen concentrations, or ectomycorrhizal diversity. Soil nitrate and potential net nitrification were higher under protected vs. unprotected logs, and plant‐available forms of N were mostly more abundant short distances away from both protected and unprotected logs than directly under them. The wood of logs protected from termites had significantly lower concentrations of most elements compared to that of unprotected logs, largely due to the large amounts of soil imported into unprotected logs by termites. Termite exclusion had no measurable effect on tree growth, nutritional status, or ectomycorrhizal diversity, however. Our findings indicate that deadwood and termites both contribute to the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties but may have limited short‐term local effects on tree growth. Longer‐term studies and studies on less fertile sites are needed.
The freshwater landscape: lake, wetland, and stream abundance and connectivity at macroscales
Authors: Fergus Carol Emi , Lapierre Jean‐François , Oliver Samantha K. , Skaff Nicholas K. , Cheruvelil Kendra S. , Webster Katherine , Scott Caren , Soranno Patricia
Published: August 2017

Inland water bodies and their surface hydrologic connections are active components in the landscape, influencing multiple ecological processes that can propagate to broad‐scale phenomena such as regional nutrient and carbon cycles and metapopulation dynamics. However, while lake, wetland, and stream abundance has been estimated at regional and global extents, less attention has been paid to freshwater connectivity attributes among aquatic systems at macroscales. Thus, regional to continental patterns of freshwater abundance and connectivity are poorly understood. We measured lake, wetland, and stream abundance and surface connectivity attributes (i.e., landscape position within stream networks) at a subcontinental extent in the Midwest and Northeast United States to characterize macroscale spatial patterns of the freshwater landscape (i.e., abundance and connectivity attributes of lakes, wetlands, and streams). We found that lake and wetland abundance exhibited opposite spatial patterns from stream density that generally followed glaciation extent boundaries—lake and wetland abundance was high north of the glaciation boundary, whereas stream density was high south of the glaciation boundary. Freshwater connectivity attributes exhibited distinct spatial patterns as defined by our integrated freshwater clusters and revealed a layer of complexity not captured by abundance measures. Patterns of freshwater abundance and connectivity in the study extent were associated primarily with glaciation and secondarily with hydrogeomorphic (e.g., surficial geology and topography), climate (e.g., runoff), and land‐use (e.g., agriculture) variables, providing insight into potential drivers of freshwater composition and distribution. The connectivity spatial patterns observed suggest that relying solely on freshwater abundance measures in macroscale analyses omits unique information on the structural attributes of freshwater systems that can be critical to key ecological processes. Adopting an integrated freshwater landscape framework to study and manage freshwaters is essential as freshwater systems face broad‐scale disturbances that may alter hydrologic connections and subsequently may impact ecosystem processes and services.
Increased duration of aquatic resource pulse alters community and ecosystem responses in a subarctic plant community
Authors: Gratton Claudio , Hoekman David , Dreyer Jamin , Jackson Randall D.
Published: August 2017

Allochthonous resource movement across ecosystem boundaries creates episodic linkages between ecosystems. The sensitivity of the community to external resources of varying duration can alter the baseline upon which future pulses of allochthony can act. We explored the terrestrial ecosystem response to pulsed inputs of lake‐derived resources with a manipulative experiment in a subarctic heathland where we assessed plant community and nutrient availability responses to additions of midge carcasses (Diptera: Chironomidae). Insect carcasses were added as either a one‐time pulse or a 4‐yr press to simulate differing durations of allochthony, which is common in the area. We found that midge pulses significantly elevated soil inorganic [N] in the first year (7× over background levels) but were significantly diminished (1.5×) by the second year after the initial pulse. The press treatment continued to elevate total soil inorganic [N] to 13× over background levels by the fourth year of midge additions, but then declined to 3.6× background in year 5 when experimental midge additions had ceased. In contrast to the soil inorganic N response, plant biomass was similar in pulse‐addition and control plots over the course of the experiment. However, by the second year of the study plant biomass in press‐addition plots were significantly higher than controls (>50%), and continued to increase over the 4 yr of the press treatment. Midge addition stimulated dominance of graminoids and thatch litter in plots that had previously been primarily heathland vegetation, a response that persisted 4 yr post‐midge addition. Our findings suggest that soil and plant community responses to persistent insect carcass deposition (e.g., press) into heathland vegetation has the potential to carry forward in a way that modifies the baseline ecosystem conditions upon which additional allochthony may act.
Temperature and Viscosity Dependence of Gold Nanodot Luminescence
Authors: Choi Sungmoon , Jeong Yujin , Yu Junhua
Published: August 2017

Strong chelation by ligands is essential for the stabilization of gold clusters used to obtain stable gold nanodots. Higher viscosity and lower temperature increase the emission intensity and blueshift the emission wavelength of nanodots, as observed in rigid environments. This indicates that the gold nanodot may consist of a flexible core structure. The strong dependence of nanodot luminescence on the rigidity of the medium suggests that the luminescence quantum yield of gold nanodots can be further improved when a rigid framework is applied for the stabilization of gold nanodots. Gold nanodots can potentially act as sensors for the temperature and viscosity of a medium. Well‐designed short peptides not only impart extraordinary stability to gold nanodots in cell culture media, but also assist them in approaching cell surfaces for efficient cellular staining. Interestingly, gold nanodots regain temperature sensitivity upon binding to the cell surface, which is useful for increasing the signal‐to‐noise ratio.
Issues and prospects of energy separation in vortex tubes: Review
Authors: Devade Kiran D. , Pise Ashok T.
Published: August 2017

A vortex tube is a device that separates entering compressed fluid into hot and cold fluid streams simultaneously. This energy separation phenomenon inside the tube is a mystery and the mechanism that causes heat transfer needs attention. Since the invention of the vortex tube, the scientific community has taken efforts to search for energy separation mechanisms. Performance augmentation and the physics of energy separation was the objective of many experimental studies. The performance of the vortex tube varies with changes in geometric and operational parameters. Most of the theoretical studies addressed the issue of energy separation. Prospects and issues of energy separation in a vortex tube in view of the literature is the core of this paper. The main objective is to discuss efforts made in order to justify the physics and to identify new areas for research.
Shell effects on acoustic performance of a drug‐delivery system activated by ultrasound
Authors: Jablonowski Lauren J. , Cochran Michael C. , Eisenbrey John R. , Teraphongphom Nutte T. , Wheatley Margaret A.
Published: August 2017

The composition of microcapsules designed for drug delivery significantly impacts their properties. Ultrasound contrast agents, consisting of stabilized microbubbles (MBs), have emerged as versatile potential drug delivery vehicles to both image and overcome challenges associated with systemic chemotherapy. In our development of polylactic acid MBs decorated with immune‐shielding polyethylene glycol chains, we have shown that the balance between acoustic behavior and immune avoidance was scalable and amenable to two distinct PEGylation methods, either incorporation of 5 wt% PEGylated PLA or insertion of 1 wt% PEGylated lipid (LipidPEG) in the polymeric shell. Here we describe the effects of shell compositions on MB functionalization for use in targeted cancer therapy. We chose tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) as the targeting ligand, motivated by the ability to both target cells and selectively induce tumor cell death upon binding. Additionally, the MBs were designed to co‐encapsulate the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin (Dox) within the shell that works with TRAIL to sensitize resistant cells. We have previously shown that the MBs shatter in response to ultrasound focused at the tumor site, delivering drug‐eluting fragments. This study demonstrates the effect of shell characteristics and MB functionalization (TRAIL‐ligated and Dox‐loaded MBs) on the acoustic response of MBs, and the cumulative effect of shell type. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3189–3196, 2017.
Combination adjuvant chemotherapy with targeted drugs for treatment of colorectal cancer: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Jinghui , Luo Li , Wang Dingxue , Guo Bin , Li Jun , Yang Zhu , Tang Dongxin
Published: August 2017

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most fatal diseases in the world. The efficacy of present chemotherapy treatments are limited and the addition of targeted drugs have been put into practice. However, the preferred treatments among adjuvant chemotherapies still remain controversial and uncertain. To evaluate the efficacy of different adjuvant chemotherapies combined with or without targeted drugs to determine the optimal treatment for patients with CRC in clinical practice. PubMed and Embase were searched for eligible articles and only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. R (Version 3.2.5) software was utilized to conduct the Bayesian network meta‐analysis (NMA). Outcomes including overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were displayed using hazard ratios. And the rank probabilities of each treatment were evaluated using the surface under cumulative ranking curve. A total of 75 RCTs published after 1997 were included in the data analysis. Overall, FOLFIRI+ cetuximab was found to be the most effective treatment in terms of long‐term survival and FOLFOX was the most effective pure chemotherapy treatment. The addition of targeted drugs will greatly improve the efficacy of chemotherapy. Targeted drug cetuximab combined with the chemotherapy regiment FOLFIRI is the preferable treatment for patients with CRC in clinical practice.
Oral tumors in children: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Khanmohammadi Razieh , Mir Fatemeh , Baniebrahimi Ghazaleh , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: August 2017

Oral tumors are one of important tumors which could be associated with serious problems in infant and children. It has been showed that a variety of cellular and molecular pathways including genetics and epigenetics mechanisms (eg, chromosomal alterations, and microRNA) involved in pathogenesis events present in oral tumors. Identification of these pathways could contribute to better treatment of oral tumor patients. Early detection is one of key steps in management of oral tumors which could contribute to improve clinical outcomes and better treatment of infant with oral tumors. Despite of easy accession of the oral cavity, oral tumors (malign/benign) are diagnosed in advance stages. Therefore, these tumors indicate a poor survival rate. It has been showed that various approaches including imaging techniques, chemical, genetics, and epigenetic biomarkers could have critical roles in early detection of oral tumors. Treatment of oral tumors is associated with employing of various therapeutic approaches including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Data on effective diagnostic platforms and therapeutic approaches for oral tumors in children and infant are rare. We offer that a variety of biomarkers such as microRNAs which could be used for oral tumors in adults may be good candidates for early detection of oral tumors in children. Here, we summarized various aspects of oral tumors in children such as molecular pathways, diagnosis, and management of them.
Down‐regulation of lncRNA‐NEAT1 alleviated the non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease via mTOR/S6K1 signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Xiang
Published: August 2017

Without effective medical interventions for complete reverse of NAFLD, it needs to urgently explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to offer a novel therapeutic strategy for people suffering from NAFLD. Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were used to establish the NAFLD animal model. Lipofectamine 2000 was used to silence or over‐express NEAT1. The expression of NEAT1 and the mRNA levels of ACC and FAS were determined by qRT‐PCR. Western blot assays were performed to detect the expression of ACC and FAS at protein levels and the related protein levels of mTOR/S6K1 signaling pathway. The levels of liver triglyceride (TG), serum total cholesterol (TC), ALT, and AST were assessed by an automatic biochemistry analyzer. The levels of liver TG and serum cholesterol were obviously up‐regulated in NAFLD rat model. The level of NEAT1 expression and the mRNA levels of ACC and FAS were obviously enhanced in NAFLD model both in vivo and in vitro. Knockdown of NEAT1 could also reduce the elevation of ACC and FAS induced by FFA in liver cells. Moreover, inhibition of mTOR/S6K1 pathway presented with the same effect with knockdown of NEAT1 on the expression of ACC and FAS mRNA levels. The injection of si‐NEAT1 lentivirus was performed to treat NAFLD of rats and the obvious efficacy for NAFLD rats was achieved. In a word, the down‐regulated level of NEAT1 could remit the non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease through mTOR/S6K1 signaling pathway in rats.
Advanced glycation end‐products and Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide increase calprotectin expression in human gingival epithelial cells
Authors: Hiroshima Yuka , Sakamoto Eijiro , Yoshida Kaya , Abe Kaori , Naruishi Koji , Yamamoto Takenori , Shinohara Yasuo , Kido Jun‐ichi , Geczy Carolyn L.
Published: August 2017

Accumulation of advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) in periodontal tissues of patients with diabetes mellitus aggravates periodontitis, but the mechanisms are unknown. Calprotectin, a heterocomplex of S100A8 and S100A9 proteins, is a constitutive cytoplasmic component of healthy gingival epithelial cells. This study aimed at investigating the effects of AGE and Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (PgLPS) on calprotectin expression in the human gingival epithelial cell line OBA‐9. AGE and PgLPS increased the expression of S100A8 and S100A9 mRNAs, and AGE+PgLPS co‐stimulation amplified their expression in OBA‐9 cells. A higher concentration of calprotectin in cell lysates was also induced by stimulation with AGE and/or PgLPS. S100A8 was mainly translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm by AGE stimulation, while cytoplasmic localization of S100A9 was not altered following stimulation with AGE and/or PgLPS. Calprotectin was found in the cytoplasm of BSA‐treated cells, but cytoplasmic and nuclear localization was observed following stimulation with AGE and/or PgLPS. AGE‐induced S100A8, and S100A9 mRNA expression was partially suppressed by RAGE‐specific siRNA. In contrast, PgLPS‐induced S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA expression was strongly suppressed by TLR2‐specific siRNA. Furthermore, the inhibition of p38, JNK MAPK, and NF‐κB attenuated AGE‐ and PgLPS‐induced S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA expression. Taken together, these results demonstrate that AGE acts in synergy with PgLPS to stimulate RAGE and TLR2 expression and activate p38, JNK MAPK, and NF‐κB signaling pathways, resulting in increased activation of calprotectin (S100A8/S100A9) in human gingival epithelial cells. Our results suggest that calprotectin may be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic periodontitis.
The role of mitochondrial ROS in antibacterial immunity
Authors: Pinegin Boris , Vorobjeva Nina , Pashenkov Mikhail , Chernyak Boris
Published: August 2017

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are essential participants of various innate immune cell responses against microorganisms and are also involved in many cellular regulatory pathways. It was believed that the main pool of ROS in the innate immune cells is generated by the NADPH oxidase enzymatic complex. However, it was discovered recently that mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) are equally important for the functioning of the immune system. mtROS play an important role in the development of the antimicrobial innate immune responses. The present mini‐review summarizes the most recent data on the role of mtROS in the antibacterial immunity. The principles of mtROS formation and possible mechanisms of their generation under the activation of innate immunity are highlighted in this review. We also speculate on the possibilities of using activators of mtROS production in clinical practice.
MiR‐146a protects small intestine against ischemia/reperfusion injury by down‐regulating TLR4/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: He Xuemei , Zheng Yingqiang , Liu Shengzhi , Shi Sen , Liu Yong , He Yanzheng , Zhang Chunxiang , Zhou Xiangyu
Published: August 2017

Previous studies reported that miR‐146a was involved in small intestine ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury, but the mechanism is largely vague. Here, we aimed to identify the change of miR‐146a in patients with mesenteric ischemia and explore the potential regulatory mechanism of miR‐146a in intestine epithelial cells survival under ischemia and I/R injury. The plasma of 20 patients with mesenteric ischemia and 25 controls was collected to examine the miR‐146a expression by qPCR. Rat intestinal epithelial cells (IEC‐6) and 24 male Sprague–Dawley rats were included to build ischemia and I/R model in vitro and in vivo. The qPCR results showed that miR‐146a decreased both in the plasma of patients with mesenteric ischemia and in IEC‐6 cells and rat small intestine tissues in ischemia and I/R model compared to controls. Both the in vitro and in vivo results showed that I/R resulted in more severe apoptotic injury than ischemia. Cleaved‐caspase 3, TLR4, TRAF6, and nuclear NF‐κB p65 were up‐regulated accompanying reduced XIAP and SOCS3 expression in intestinal ischemia and I/R injury. After up‐regulation of miR‐146a in IEC‐6 cells, increased cell survival and decreased cell apoptosis were observed, concomitant with decreased cleaved‐caspase 3 and down‐regulated TLR4/TRAF6/NF‐κB pathway. What is more, this protective effect was blocked by TRAF6 overexpression and increased nuclear NF‐κB p65 nuclear. Taken together, this study revealed that miR‐146a expression was decreased in small intestine ischemia and I/R injury. And miR‐146a improves intestine epithelial cells survival under ischemia and I/R injury through inhibition TLR4, TRAF6, and p‐IκBα, subsequently leading to decreased NF‐κB p65 nuclear translocation.