bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased expression of kindlin‐2 is correlated with hematogenous metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Yan Meisi , Zhang Lei , Wu Yiqi , Gao Lei , Yang Weiwei , Li Jing , Chen Yubing , Jin Xiaoming
Published: April 2016

Kindlin‐2 is involved in activating the integrin signaling pathway which plays an important role in regulating cancer cell invasion. However, the role of kindlin‐2 may vary among cancer types. The aim of this study was to explore the possible association between kindlin‐2 and clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), and its potential role in the prognosis of ccRCC. Immunohistochemistry assays were used to examine kindlin‐2 expression levels in cancer tissues obtained from 336 patients with ccRCC. The correlation between kindlin‐2 expression levels and pathologic variables was then analyzed. In addition, the association between kindlin‐2 expression levels and survival time was analyzed by Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log‐rank tests. Of 336 ccRCC patients, 199 had high levels of kindlin‐2 expression, while 137 had low kindlin‐2 expression levels. Patients at a late stage of ccRCC (stage III or IV) were more likely to have high kindlin‐2 expression levels than those at an early stage (stage I or II) (χ2 = 4.72, P = 0.03). Patients with high levels of kindlin‐2 expression had higher risk of hematogenous metastasis (χ2 = 6.70, P = 0.01) than those with low levels of kindlin‐2 expression. In addition, the survival time was significantly shorter for patients with high levels of kindlin‐2 expression than for those with low levels of kindlin‐2 expression (P = 0.001 for overall survival [OS] and P = 0.002 for disease‐free survival [DFS]). Multivariate survival analysis based on the Cox proportional hazards model showed that high kindlin‐2 expression levels had a hazard risk (HR) of 1.76 for OS (95% CI 1.19–2.62, P = 0.005) and an HR of 1.47 for DFS (95% CI = 1.05–2.06, P = 0.026). By comparison, lymph node metastasis had an HR of 1.48 for OS (95% CI 1.04–2.10, P = 0.029) and an HR of 1.41 for DFS (95% CI 1.04–1.93, P = 0.029). This study provided strong evidence that increased kindlin‐2 expression might be involved in promoting tumor invasiveness and leading to a poor prognosis of ccRCC.
Gene‐specific amplicons from metagenomes as an alternative to directed evolution for enzyme screening: a case study using phenylacetaldehyde reductases
Authors: Itoh Nobuya , Kazama Miki , Takeuchi Nami , Isotani Kentaro , Kurokawa Junji
Published: April 2016

Screening gene‐specific amplicons from metagenomes (S‐GAM) is a highly promising technique for the isolation of genes encoding enzymes for biochemical and industrial applications. From metagenomes, we isolated phenylacetaldehyde reductase (par) genes, which code for an enzyme that catalyzes the production of various Prelog's chiral alcohols. Nearly full‐length par genes were amplified by PCR from metagenomic DNA, the products of which were fused with engineered par sequences at both terminal regions of the expression vector to ensure proper expression and then used to construct Escherichia coli plasmid libraries. Sequence‐ and activity‐based screening of these libraries identified different homologous par genes, Hpar‐001 to ‐036, which shared more than 97% amino acid sequence identity with PAR. Comparative characterization of these active homologs revealed a wide variety of enzymatic properties including activity, substrate specificity, and thermal stability. Moreover, amino acid substitutions in these genes coincided with those of Sar268 and Har1 genes, which were independently engineered by error‐prone PCR to exhibit increased activity in the presence of concentrated 2‐propanol. The comparative data from both approaches suggest that sequence information from homologs isolated from metagenomes is quite useful for enzyme engineering. Furthermore, by examining the GAM‐based sequence dataset derived from soil metagenomes, we easily found amino acid substitutions that increase the thermal stability of PAR/PAR homologs. Thus, GAM‐based approaches can provide not only useful homologous enzymes but also an alternative to directed evolution methodologies.
Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis of First‐Line Treatment With Biologic Agents in Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Luca Nadia J. , Burnett Heather F. , Ungar Wendy J. , Moretti Myla E. , Beukelman Timothy , Feldman Brian M. , Schwartz Gwen , Bayoumi Ahmed M.
Published: April 2016

Objective

The optimal timing of biologic agent treatment in polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is unknown. This study evaluated the costs and outcomes of first‐line treatment with etanercept (ETN), an anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) agent, compared with step‐wise therapy in JIA.

Methods

We compared 2 strategies: methotrexate (MTX) plus ETN as first‐line therapy (ETN‐first) and MTX monotherapy followed by ETN (ETN‐second), using a cohort state‐transition model of newly diagnosed JIA patients. The model's time horizon was 5 years, and the perspective was that of the Canadian health care system. The base case patient was 11 years old, weighed 40 kg, and had 5 or more active joints. Direct costs were calculated and discounted at a rate of 3% per year. Outcomes were expressed as quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs). Scenario analyses varied multiple parameters simultaneously to model more severely and more mildly affected patients.

Results

ETN‐first, compared to ETN‐second, yielded a discounted incremental cost of $16,893 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 9,348–25,310), incremental QALY of 0.19 (95% CI 0.08–0.32), and an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $88,815 per QALY gained. The results were sensitive to the cost of ETN, the time horizon of the model, and estimates of the efficacy of the first‐line therapies. The cost per QALY for treating patients with severe JIA was $33,960.

Conclusion

First‐line therapy of ETN and MTX is relatively expensive compared to MTX alone, but may be economically attractive for more severely affected patients. More research is needed regarding the efficacy of first‐line anti‐TNF agents.
Social Role Participation in Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Cross‐Sectional Comparison With Population Controls
Authors: van Genderen Simon , Plasqui Guy , Landewé Robert , Lacaille Diane , Arends Suzanne , van Gaalen Floris , van der Heijde Désirée , Heuft Liesbeth , Luime Jolanda , Spoorenberg Anneke , Gignac Monique , Boonen Annelies
Published: April 2016

Objective

Participation in social roles for persons with chronic disease is important for their quality of life, but interpretation of the data on participation is difficult in the absence of a benchmark. This study aimed to compare social role participation in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) to population controls using the Social Role Participation Questionnaire (SRPQ).

Methods

There were 246 AS patients and 510 population controls who completed the SRPQ, which assesses participation in 11 roles (with scores ranging 1–5) across 4 dimensions (importance, satisfaction with performance, satisfaction with time, and physical difficulty), and additionally ranked their 3 most important roles. The ranking of role importance, the SRPQ dimension scores, and the gap between importance and satisfaction with performance of roles were compared between patients and controls.

Results

Patients (62% male; mean ± SD age 51 ± 12 years) and controls (70% male; mean ± SD 42 ± 15 years) ranked intimate relationships, relationships with children/stepchildren/grandchildren, and employment as the most important roles. Compared to controls, patients gave higher scores on the SRPQ to importance (3.75 versus 3.43), but reported lower satisfaction with performance (3.19 versus 3.58) and greater physical difficulty (3.87 versus 4.67) (P ≤ 0.05 for all). The largest differences in gaps between importance and satisfaction with performance for patients compared to controls were seen in the physical leisure, hobbies, and traveling and vacation categories, in which patients assigned higher importance but reported especially low satisfaction.

Conclusion

As society places increasing emphasis on individual responsibility to participate fully in social roles, the current data suggest that health care providers should pay more attention to participation restrictions experienced by patients with AS.
Carbon‐Based Composite as an Efficient and Stable Metal‐Free Electrocatalyst
Authors: Fan Xiujun , Peng Zhiwei , Wang Juanjuan , Ye Ruquan , Zhou Haiqing , Guo Xia
Published: April 2016

Silicon carbide (SiC) encapsulated with graphitized nanodiamond (GD) sheaths (SiC‐GD) as a core–shell nanocrystal (NC) is synthesized with atomic H post‐treatment of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes, which are unzipped and converted into graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) and preserve their vertically aligned integrity. The SiC‐GD core–shell NCs anchor on the GNRs framework and form SiC‐GD@GNRs composite. The nucleation and growth mechanisms for single crystal nanodiamond without diamond seed are discussed. The SiC‐GD@GNRs composite as a metal‐free electrocatalyst exhibits a high activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction, with a small onset overpotential of 8 mV, Tafel slope of 54 mV dec−1, and exchange current density @ 200 mV of 77.4 mV, as well as long term stability in acid medium. The superior electrocatalytic performances of SiC‐GD@GNRs are ascribed to a high dispersion of SiC‐GD NCs on the GNRs support and a high stability of the GD and GNRs in acid solution.
Enhancing the Biomechanical Performance of Anisotropic Nanofibrous Scaffolds in Tendon Tissue Engineering: Reinforcement with Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Domingues Rui M. A. , Chiera Silvia , Gershovich Pavel , Motta Antonella , Reis Rui L. , Gomes Manuela E.
Published: April 2016

Anisotropically aligned electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds based on natural/synthetic polymer blends have been established as a reasonable compromise between biological and biomechanical performance for tendon tissue engineering (TE) strategies. However, the limited tensile properties of these biomaterials restrict their application in this field due to the load‐bearing nature of tendon/ligament tissues. Herein, the use of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) as reinforcing nanofillers in aligned electrospun scaffolds based on a natural/synthetic polymer blend matrix, poly‐ε‐caprolactone/chitosan (PCL/CHT) is reported. The incorporation of small amounts of CNCs (up to 3 wt%) into tendon mimetic nanofiber bundles has a remarkable biomaterial‐toughing effect (85% ± 5%, p < 0.0002) and raises the scaffolds mechanical properties to tendon/ligament relevant range (σ = 39.3 ± 1.9 MPa and E = 540.5 ± 83.7 MPa, p < 0.0001). Aligned PCL/CHT/CNC nanocomposite fibrous scaffolds meet not only the mechanical requirements for tendon TE applications but also provide tendon mimetic extracellular matrix (ECM) topographic cues, a key feature for maintaining tendon cell's morphology and behavior. The strategy proposed here may be extended to other anisotropic aligned nanofibrous scaffolds based on natural/synthetic polymer blends and enable the full exploitation of the advantages provided by their tendon mimetic fibrous structures in tendon TE.
Highly Ordered Ag/Cu Hybrid Nanostructure Arrays for Ultrasensitive Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Chen Kun , Zhang Xinyi , Zhang Yongliang , Lei Dang Yuan , Li Haitao , Williams Timothy , MacFarlane Douglas R.
Published: April 2016

Despite significant progress recently made in this field, the practical application of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is frequently limited by the lack of highly sensitive, reproducible, and cost‐effective substrates. The fabrication of SERS substrates with a consistently high density of hot‐spots is a key step to address this issue. Here, a simple approach is reported for the fabrication of Ag/Cu hybrid nanostructure arrays as highly sensitive and cost‐effective substrates for SERS application. By effectively tuning the gap size between neighboring nanorods to sub‐10 nm and increasing the packing density of nanorods, ordered Cu nanorod arrays can be used as cheap and effective SERS substrates in their own right. After sputtering a very thin layer of Ag nanoparticles on the surface of the Cu nanorods to get sub‐5 nm gaps, further field enhancement is enabled. A cascaded field enhancement has been evidenced by the electromagnetic simulations. The Ag/Cu hybrid nanostructure arrays exhibit a detection limit down to 10−15 m for nonresonant molecules such as benzenethiol.
Micro‐Patterned Lithium Metal Anodes with Suppressed Dendrite Formation for Post Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Park Joonam , Jeong Jiseon , Lee Yunju , Oh Min , Ryou Myung‐Hyun , Lee Yong Min
Published: April 2016

Repressing uncontrolled lithium (Li) dendrite growth is the top priority for enabling the reliable use of Li metal secondary batteries. On the other hand, the technique controlling the metal plating behavior during metal plating indeed has been considered very difficult to achieve. For instance, how can one plate metal ions on the favored selected region during plating? The present study describes how to achieve this goal, i.e., dendrite‐free Li deposition, by mechanical surface modification using a simple stamping technique, where finite‐element method simulation using COMSOL Multiphysics was used to design the micro‐patterns of the stamp. After stamping, the transferred micro‐patterns on Li metal anodes suppress dendrite growth during repeated Li deposition/stripping processes and exhibit improved long‐term cycling stability of Li metal anodes. During the repeated Li plating processes, the pattern holes are filled by the liquid‐like and/or granular forms of Li metal without resulting Li dendrite growth. These holes are then reversibly drained during the Li stripping process, reverting to their original dimension. This study investigated the correlation of this unique Li plating/stripping behavior as a function of the current density.
Molecular‐Pillar‐Supported Functionalized Reduced Graphene‐Oxide for Energy Efficient Lubrication
Authors: Gupta Bhavana , Kumar Niranjan , Panda Kalpataru , Melvin Ambrose A. , Joshi Shailesh , Dash Sitaram
Published: April 2016

Molecular‐pillar‐supported basal plane of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is fabricated by polymerizing polyaniline (PANI). In the presence of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG200), the γ‐radiolysis is used for modifying the functionalization and improving the structural symmetry of PANI and PEG grafted rGO (PANI‐PEG‐g‐rGO). The PANI is covalently and noncovalently grafted onto the surface of the graphene sheets. Carboxyl groups of rGO are linked to the nitrogen atoms in the PANI backbone and an accompanying noncovalent interaction between alkyl chains of grafted PANI and hydrooxylated rGO is formed. Raman and Fourier transform infra‐red results confirm existence of stretching vibrations of benzenoid and quinonoid rings in PANI‐PEG‐g‐rGO‐functionalized composite, indicating grafting between PANI and rGO through π–π interaction. Furthermore, PEG‐functionalization through hydrogen bonding with rGO is confirmed when hydroxyl group from the rGO combines with oxygen of PEG. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals significant increase in carbon, while loading PANI network with rGO followed by γ‐irradiation. Antifriction and antiwear properties of graphene nanocomposite are considerably enhanced to 68.4% and 48%, respectively, as compared to pristine PEG. The unique lubrication properties are explained by PEG functionalized molecular PANI‐pillar structure across basal plane of rGO.
Figures‐of‐Merit for Rolling‐Friction‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Jiang Tao , Tang Wei , Chen Xiangyu , Bao Han Chang , Lin Long , Zi Yunlong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: April 2016

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a highly effective and easily scalable technology for harvesting mechanical energy. Recently, standards and figure‐of‐merits have been defined to quantify the performance of TENGs. In this work, the figure‐of‐merits of rolling‐friction‐based TENGs are investigated through a theoretical model based on the rolling freestanding mode, including the conductor‐to‐dielectric and dielectric‐to‐dielectric cases. By combining finite‐element simulations and semi‐analytical derivations, the basic properties and resistive load output characteristics of rolling TENGs are calculated for various structural parameters, such as the electrode gap or rod diameter. The average output power is optimized by maximizing the structural figure‐of‐merit, which depends on the structural parameters. The results gained in this work could provide useful guidance for optimizing the performance of rolling‐friction‐based TENGs toward practical self‐powered systems.
Plasmon‐Mediated Solar Energy Conversion via Photocatalysis in Noble Metal/Semiconductor Composites
Authors: Wang Mengye , Ye Meidan , Iocozzia James , Lin Changjian , Lin Zhiqun
Published: April 2016

Plasmonics has remained a prominent and growing field over the past several decades. The coupling of various chemical and photo phenomenon has sparked considerable interest in plasmon‐mediated photocatalysis. Given plasmonic photocatalysis has only been developed for a relatively short period, considerable progress has been made in improving the absorption across the full solar spectrum and the efficiency of photo‐generated charge carrier separation. With recent advances in fundamental (i.e., mechanisms) and experimental studies (i.e., the influence of size, geometry, surrounding dielectric field, etc.) on plasmon‐mediated photocatalysis, the rational design and synthesis of metal/semiconductor hybrid nanostructure photocatalysts has been realized. This review seeks to highlight the recent impressive developments in plasmon‐mediated photocatalytic mechanisms (i.e., Schottky junction, direct electron transfer, enhanced local electric field, plasmon resonant energy transfer, and scattering and heating effects), summarize a set of factors (i.e., size, geometry, dielectric environment, loading amount and composition of plasmonic metal, and nanostructure and properties of semiconductors) that largely affect plasmonic photocatalysis, and finally conclude with a perspective on future directions within this rich field of research.
Associative Enhancement of Time Correlated Response to Heterogeneous Stimuli in a Neuromorphic Nanowire Device
Authors: O'Kelly Curtis J. , Fairfield Jessamyn A. , McCloskey David , Manning Hugh G. , Donegan John F. , Boland John J.
Published: April 2016

In spite of the strong interest in brain‐like or neuromorphic computation, relatively few devices have emerged whose neuromorphic behavior is embedded in the hardware itself and not reliant on external programming of synaptic weights. Here, a neuromorphic device is described based on a TiO2 nanowire that exhibits an associative memory response to the time correlation between voltage and optical stimuli. Memristive characteristics are also observed with current–voltage sweeps showing hysteresis loops and continuum resistance levels. The nanowire device responds to heterogeneous voltage and optical pulse stimuli with spike‐like neuromorphic outputs. Moreover, uncorrelated pulses produce a weak response, consistent with the interaction of coincident pulses with adsorbed and bulk oxygen in the surface depletion region, leading to a nonlinear enhancement in conductance. The strength of this learned enhancement depends on both the time correlation and the number of pulse stimuli, consistent with spike timing dependent plasticity. The nanowire devices presented have neural synapse‐like properties that could serve as a building block for neuromorphic computation.
Low‐Temperature Solution‐Processed Electron Transport Layers for Inverted Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Jiaqi , Faria Jorge C. D. , Morbidoni Maurizio , Porte Yoann , Burgess Claire H. , Harrabi Khallil , McLachlan Martyn A.
Published: April 2016

Processing temperature is highlighted as a convenient means of controlling the optical and charge transport properties of solution processed electron transport layers (ETLs) in inverted polymer solar cells. Using the well‐studied active layer – poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl):indene‐C60 bisadduct – the influence of ETL processing temperatures from 25 to 450 °C is shown, reporting the role of crystallinity, structure, charge transport, and Fermi level (EF) on numerous device performance characteristics. It has been determined that an exceptionally low temperature processed ETL (110 °C) increases device power conversion efficiency by a factor greater than 50% compared with a high temperature (450 °C) processed ETL. Modulations in device series and shunt resistance, induced by changes in the ETL transport properties, are observed in parallel to significant changes in device open circuit voltage attributed to changes on the EF of the ETLs. This work highlights the importance of interlayer control in multilayer photovoltaic devices and presents a convenient material compatible with future flexible and roll‐to‐roll processes.
Progressive Regulation of Electrical and Thermal Transport Properties to High‐Performance CuInTe2 Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Luo Yubo , Yang Junyou , Jiang Qinghui , Li Weixin , Zhang Dan , Zhou Zhiwei , Cheng Yudong , Ren Yangyang , He Xu
Published: April 2016

p‐type CuInTe2 thermoelectric (TE) materials are of great interest for applications in the middle temperature range because of their environmentally benign chemical component and stable phase under operating temperatures. In order to enhance their TE performance to compete with the Pb based TE materials, a progressive regulation of electrical and thermal transport properties has been employed in this work. Anion P and Sb substitution is used to tune the electrical transport properties of CuInTe2 for the first time, leading to a sharp enhancement in power factor due to the reduction of electrical resistivity by acceptor doping and the increase of the Seebeck coefficient resulted from the improvement of density of states. Concurrently, In2O3 nanoinclusions are introduced through an in situ oxidation between CuInTe2 and ZnO additives, rendering a great reduction in the thermal conductivity of CuInTe2 by the extra phonon scattering. Then, by integrating the anion substitution and nanoinclusions, a high power factor of 1445 μW m−1 K−2 and enhanced ZT of 1.61 at 823 K are achieved in the CuInTe2 based TE material. This implies that the synergistic regulation of electrical and thermal transport properties by anion substitution and in situ nanostructure is a very effective approach to improve the TE performance of CuInTe2 compounds.
Accumulation of Risk and Promotive Factors Among Young Children in US Military Families
Authors: Wadsworth Shelley MacDermid , Cardin Jean‐Francois , Christ Sharon , Willerton Elaine , O'Grady Allison Flittner , Topp David , Coppola Elizabeth , Lester Patricia , Mustillo Sarah
Published: April 2016

In the families of the new cohort of war veterans now entering the civilian population in the United States are over two million young children (Cozza, Haskins & Lerner, 2013; Institute of Medicine, 2013). Several noteworthy studies have shown that children exposed to separation from a parent due to combat‐related deployment are at elevated risk for a variety of negative consequences (Lester & Flake, 2013). Cozza et al. (2013) argue that existing studies of military children focus too much on the stresses or deficits they experience, failing to give sufficient attention to their strengths, the strengths of their families, or the supports around them. In the current study we focus on risk and promotive factors in the lives of children aged 0–10 in military families. We examine the likelihood of negative outcomes as functions of additive, cumulative, and interactive relationships between risk and promotive factors and children's outcomes. Risk factors, particularly parental depression, community poverty, and cumulative risk, were more strongly associated with children's outcomes than promotive factors. There was, however, a significant risk‐protective relationship between accumulations of risk and promotive factors, consistent with promotive conditions operating in a protective fashion under conditions of elevated risk.
Clinical Community Psychology: Reflections on the Decades Following Swampscott
Authors: A. Jenkins Richard
Published: April 2016

The Swampscott report was foundational, but in some ways reflected divisions within community psychology that have continued into the present. Community psychologists trained in the 1970s and, especially, the 1980s confronted a period where the original focus of community mental health began to have less influence in the mental health field due to a variety of public policies, and the growth of third party payments as a significant source of health care funding. Programs that engaged communities and provided a base for prevention interventions were greatly curtailed because of changes in federal legislation and limited opportunities for state and local funding, although prevention interventions found growing interest from research funders. Clinical and community psychologists who trained in this period increasingly looked to a variety of areas outside of mental health. Consequently, the field of community psychology has become more applied and less academic, with increased attention to advocacy, theory, and global perspectives. The sweep of these changes and their implications for the future of the field are discussed here.
Do patients with tuberous sclerosis complex have an increased risk for malignancies?
Authors: Peron Angela , Vignoli Aglaia , La Briola Francesca , Volpi Angela , Montanari Emanuele , Morenghi Emanuela , Ghelma Filippo , Bulfamante Gaetano , Cefalo Graziella , Canevini Maria Paola
Published: April 2016

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is generally characterized by the presence of benign tumors, but some patients with malignancies have been reported in the literature. We examined a large Italian TSC population (240 individuals followed from 2001 to 2015, aged 3 months–74 years), assessing the frequency of malignancies to determine whether there is an increased risk for cancer in this disorder, and looking for possible features associated with the development of neoplasia. Fifteen patients had malignancies (6.25%); median age at diagnosis was 37.5 years (range of 1.6–58). Five of seven renal tumors were renal cell carcinomas. Eight patients had a non‐renal malignancy (3.3%), but we did not find a more prevalent type of cancer. No patient developed more than one malignancy. The prevalence of all malignant tumors was compatible with the prevalence in the general population (5.6%, 95%CI 2.99−9.31%, vs. 4.4% in Italy). Median age at cancer diagnosis was lower (37.5 years, 95%CI 28.6−44.7, vs. 66.0 years). Two patients (13.3%) died of their cancer, while outcome was favorable in the remaining individuals. Malignant tumors were more frequently diagnosed in patients with mutations in TSC1 when compared to TSC2 and patients with no mutation identified (P = 0.032). Our study demonstrated that TSC patients do not seem to have an increased risk for malignancies besides renal cell carcinoma. However, when cancer develops, age at diagnosis is lower than in the general population, and malignant tumors are more frequently diagnosed in patients with mutations in TSC1. Further studies are needed to confirm these data. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stable isotope study on ancient populations of central sudan: Insights on their diet and environment
Authors: Iacumin Paola , Di Matteo Antonietta , Usai Donatella , Salvatori Sandro , Venturelli Giampiero
Published: April 2016

Objectives

A contribution to the knowledge of the economy and the environmental surroundings of the populations living along the Nile valley in three different periods.

Materials and methods

This study reports stable isotope analyses on apatite bone samples of 139 humans, 48 mammals, and 43 fish from the Al Khiday archaeological sites in Sudan. The bones belong to four archaeological periods: pre‐Mesolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Meroitic. Data were processed statistically.

Results

A significant difference exists between the pre‐Mesolithic and Mesolithic mean δ18Ow value and the mean of the modern Nile. The mean δ18Ow values for the Neolithic humans and bovids are very similar (+1.5‰ ±4‰, and −2‰, respectively) and more positive than the mean values of Mesolithic mammals and Pre‐Mesolithic humans. The water ingested by Meroitic humans (+7‰ ± 2.5‰) is enriched in 18O in respect to the water ingested by the Neolithic population. There is a separation in the δ13Cdiet values between the pre‐Mesolithic humans (−14‰ ± 1‰) and Mesolithic mammals (−12‰ ± 2‰) group and the Neolithic humans (−18‰ ± 1‰), Meroitic humans (−19‰ ±1‰), Neolithic mammals (−21‰), and the modern (mean δ13Cdiet = −19‰ ±2‰) mammal group.

Discussion

The climate became warmer and more arid from the pre‐Mesolithic/Mesolithic to the Meroitic period. The environmental conditions influenced the strategies of subsistence and, in particular, the changes occurring from the pre‐Mesolithic to the Neolithic can be considered contemporaneous to the transition from hunting‐gathering‐fishing to cultivation‐herding. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:498–518, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Women with more feminine digit ratio (2D:4D) have higher reproductive success
Authors: Klimek Magdalena , Galbarczyk Andrzej , Nenko Ilona , Jasienska Grazyna
Published: April 2016

Objectives

Prenatal development has a long‐lasting influence on biological condition and health. Second‐to‐fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is suggested as an indicator of sex hormone exposure during fetal development, and it is likely that women with a more feminine digit ratio were exposed to higher prenatal estrogen levels. Therefore, we tested if 2D:4D was related to a woman's reproductive characteristics.

Methods

We studied 319 women aged 46–92, who went through a natural menopause and whose husbands were alive at least until their menopause were studied. Women were recruited at the Mogielica Human Ecology Study Site located in rural Poland.

Results

Women with more feminine 2D:4D had a higher number of children (P = 0.002), gave birth to their last child at a later age (P = 0.02), and had a longer reproductive lifespan (P = 0.04) than women with more masculine 2D:4D. Age and number of years of education were included as potential confounders in the analyses.

Conclusions

The results indicated that women with more feminine 2D:4D had higher reproductive success. While the exact mechanisms were not known, and the relationship between 2D:4D and adult sex hormone levels was questioned by previous studies, there might be other biological pathways explaining the observed results, that is, via behaviors that were indirectly related to fertility. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:549–553, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patterns of quadrupedal locomotion in a vertical clinging and leaping primate (Propithecus coquereli) with implications for understanding the functional demands of primate quadrupedal locomotion
Authors: Granatosky Michael C. , Tripp Cameron H. , Fabre Anne‐Claire , Schmitt Daniel
Published: April 2016

Objectives

Many primates exhibit a suite of characteristics that distinguish their quadrupedal gaits from non‐primate mammals including the use of a diagonal sequence gait, a relatively protracted humerus at touchdown, and relatively high peak vertical forces on the hindlimbs compared to the forelimbs. These characteristics are thought to have evolved together in early, small‐bodied primates possibly in response to the mechanical demands of navigating and foraging in a complex arboreal environment. It remains unclear, however, whether primates that employ quadrupedalism only rarely demonstrate the common primate pattern of quadrupedalism or instead use the common non‐primate pattern or an entirely different mechanical pattern from either group.

Materials and Methods

This study compared the kinematics and kinetics of two habitually quadrupedal primates (Lemur catta and Varecia variegata) to those of a dedicated vertical clinger and leaper (Propithecus coquereli) during bouts of quadrupedal walking.

Results

All three species employed diagonal sequence gaits almost exclusively, displayed similar degrees of humeral protraction, and exhibited lower vertical peak forces in the forelimbs compared to the hindlimb.

Discussion

From the data in this study, it is possible to reject the idea that P. coquereli uses a non‐primate pattern of quadrupedal walking mechanics. Nor do they use an entirely different mechanical pattern from either most primates or most non‐primates during quadrupedal locomotion. These findings provide support for the idea that this suite of characteristics is adaptive for the challenges of arboreal locomotion in primates and that these features of primate locomotion may be basal to the order or evolved independently in multiple lineages including indriids. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:644–652, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictive significance of computed tomography in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Meng Yifan , Lou Hongfei , Wang Chengshuo , Zhang Luo
Published: April 2016

Background

Eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (eCRSwNP), characterized by eosinophil‐predominant inflammation in mucosa, is a subject of much investigation. However, no satisfactory atraumatic clinical parameter has been established to date for prediagnosis of this condition. The aim of this study was therefore to compare the use of computed tomography (CT) scans with other clinical parameters in prediagnosis of eCRSwNP.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort, single‐institution study. Two hundred consecutive CRSwNP patients (123 eCRSwNP and 77 non‐eosinophilic CRSwNP [neCRSwNP]) undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery in Beijing TongRen Hospital were recruited. Preoperative CT scan, skin‐prick test (SPT), and oral fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) measurements were performed in each patient and full blood count with differential analysis under the patients’ regular condition was performed within 1 week before surgery. Logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to assess the predictive value of clinical parameters.

Results

History of surgery, onset of asthma, history of allergy, total Lund‐Mackay scores, presence of osteoneogenesis, FENO, and blood eosinophil counts were all significantly higher in the eCRSwNP group, compared to the neCRSwNP group. The ratio of the CT scores for the ethmoid sinus and maxillary sinus (E/M ratio) had the highest predictive value, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.938. The cutoff point of >2.59 for E/M ratio demonstrated a sensitivity of 94.2% and a specificity of 89.6% for eCRSwNP.

Conclusion

The E/M ratio is a more useful predictor in diagnosis of eCRSwNP compared to the other clinical parameters.
Tumor necrosis factor‐α regulates interleukin‐33 expression through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, p38, and nuclear factor–κB pathways in airway epithelial cells
Authors: Park Il‐Ho , Park Joo‐Hoo , Shin Jae‐Min , Lee Heung‐Man
Published: April 2016

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐33 plays an important role in controlling immune responses in barrier tissues, and is a potent mediator of inflammatory diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid disease, and chronic rhinosinusitis. The aims of the present study were 2‐fold: (1) to determine the stimulatory effect of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) on IL‐33 production in nasal epithelial and A549 cells; and (2) to identify downstream pathways that activate IL‐33 production.

Methods

Primary nasal epithelial cells (PNECs) from 5 normal patients were isolated and cultured. To identify which cytokines stimulate IL‐33 production, we performed reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence staining. Three mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) (p38, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase [ERK], and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase [JNK]) and nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) were evaluated as downstream signaling molecules by RT‐PCR, ELISA, Western blot analysis, and luciferase reporter assay.

Results

The IL‐33 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels were increased significantly by TNF‐α in PNECs and A549 cells. TNF‐α stimulated the expression of IL‐33 in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in A549 cells. PNECs and A549 cells were treated with TNF‐α in the presence of specific inhibitors of p38, ERK, JNK, and NF‐κB. In both cell types, inhibitors of ERK, p38, and NF‐κB reversed TNF‐α–induced IL‐33 production. In the luciferase reporter assay, NF‐κB activity was inhibited not only by an NF‐κB inhibitor, but also by ERK and p38 inhibitors.

Conclusion

TNF‐α stimulated IL‐33 expression through ERK, p38, and NFκB pathways in PNECs and A549 cells.
Characterization of a novel high‐dose ovalbumin‐induced murine model of allergic sinonasal inflammation
Authors: Mendiola Michelle , Tharakan Anuj , Chen Mengfei , Asempa Tomefa , Lane Andrew P. , Ramanathan Murugappan
Published: April 2016

Background

Few efficacious topical therapies exist for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The lack of a reproducible mouse model of CRS limits the pilot testing of potential novel anti‐inflammatory therapies. Although the ovalbumin‐induced mouse model of sinonasal inflammation is commonly used, it is difficult to reproduce and can generate variable histologic results. In this study, we explore a variation of this model in different strains of mice and explore various inflammatory cytokines as reproducible molecular markers of inflammation.

Methods

Allergic sinonasal inflammation was generated in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice using intraperitoneal high‐dose injections of ovalbumin (Ova; Sigma Chemical Co.) followed by 10 days of high‐dose intranasal sensitization. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for eotaxin, interleukin 4 (IL‐4), and IL‐13 were measured from sinonasal mucosa. We also pilot tested a known topical budesonide to characterize the anti‐inflammatory response. Histological sections were analyzed for epithelial thickness and eosinophilia.

Results

Both BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice consistently showed increases in T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines after sensitization with high‐dose Ova (p < 0.0001) when compared to controls. There were also significant increases in epithelial thickening in Ova‐sensitized mice and eosinophilia in both BALB/c and C57BL/6 strains. In addition, topical budesonide significantly reduced anti‐inflammatory cytokines, eosinophilia, and epithelial thickness.

Conclusion

Our variation of the ovalbumin‐induced mouse model of sinonasal inflammation in both BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice provides an efficacious model for testing potential topical anti‐inflammatory therapies for CRS. The utilization of sinonasal mucosal Th2 cytokines along with histologic markers provides a consistent and quantifiable marker of inflammation in assessing the efficacy of candidate drugs.
Chaos and beauty in a beaker: The early history of the Belousov‐Zhabotinsky reaction
Authors: Kiprijanov Konstantin S.
Published: April 2016

Discovered in 1950 by Belousov in the Soviet Union and further investigated by Zhabotinsky and his research group in the 1960s, the Belousov‐Zhabotinsky reaction soon came to the wider attention of scientists on both sides of the Iron Curtain and made an important contribution to consolidating Prigogine's theory of nonequilibrium thermodynamics. Allowing scientists to study chaotic behavior in the laboratory, it also paved the way for further investigations of self‐organizing systems in biology and played an important part in the formation of the field of nonlinear science. Focusing on the period between 1950 and 1975, this paper explores the early history of this enigmatic reaction.
Computergestützte Syntheseplanung: Das Ende vom Anfang
Authors: Szymkuć Sara , Gajewska Ewa P. , Klucznik Tomasz , Molga Karol , Dittwald Piotr , Startek Michał , Bajczyk Michał , Grzybowski Bartosz A.
Published: April 2016

Seit der Einführung des ersten dokumentierten Forschungsprojekts (Dendral, 1965) zur rechnergestützten organischen Synthese ist ein halbes Jahrhundert vergangen. In den 1970er und 1980er Jahren wurden viele weitere Programme entwickelt, doch bis zu den 2000er Jahren war der Enthusiasmus dieser Pionierzeit weitgehend verschwunden, und wegen der schwierigen Aufgabe, die Planung organischer Synthesen in Computer einzugeben, erhielt sie den Ruf einer “Mission impossible”. Das ist recht merkwürdig angesichts der Tatsache, dass Computer in der Zwischenzeit viele andere Fähigkeiten “gelernt” haben, die als alleinige Domänen von Intellekt und Kreativität des Menschen betrachtet wurden – so können Rechner heutzutage besser Schach spielen als menschliche Weltmeister, und sie können klassische Musik komponieren, die für das menschliche Ohr angenehm ist. In der organischen Synthese hat es zwar keine vergleichbaren Leistungen gegeben, aber dieser Aufsatz behauptet, dass es verfrüht wäre, eine Niederlage einzugestehen. Tatsächlich kann dem Computer schließlich “beigebracht” werden, die Synthesen von komplizierten organischen Verbindungen in Sekunden‐ bis Minutenschnelle zu planen, indem die Kombination aus moderner Rechenleistung und Algorithmen aus der Graphen‐/Netzwerktheorie zusammengeführt wird mit in geeigneten Formaten codierten chemischen Regeln (mit vollständiger Stereo‐ und Regiochemie) und Elementen der Quantenmechanik. Der Aufsatz beginnt mit einem Überblick über theoretische Grundkonzepte, die essenziell sind für die Analyse der großen Datenmengen chemischer Synthesen. Im Anschluss daran wird auf die Optimierung von Synthesewegen unter Einbeziehung bekannter Reaktionen eingegangen. Einen Schwerpunkt bildet die anschließende Besprechung der Algorithmen, die eine vollständig neue und automatisierte Planung der Synthesen für komplizierte Zielverbindungen ermöglichen, darunter auch solche, die noch nicht hergestellt wurden. Es gibt natürlich noch Verbesserungsmöglichkeiten, letztendlich aber werden Computer für die praktische Planung der organischen Synthese wichtig und hilfreich sein. Churchills berühmte Worte nach dem ersten wichtigen Sieg der Alliierten über die Achsenmächte paraphrasierend, ist es für die computergestützte Syntheseplanung nicht das Ende, nicht einmal der Anfang vom Ende, sondern das Ende vom Anfang. Der Computer ist da und wird bleiben.
Modulare zweizähnige NHC‐Thioether‐Hybridliganden zur Stabilisierung von Palladium‐Nanopartikeln in diversen Lösungsmitteln
Authors: Rühling Andreas , Schaepe Kira , Rakers Lena , Vonhören Benjamin , Tegeder Patricia , Ravoo Bart Jan , Glorius Frank
Published: April 2016

Die Synthese von vier zweizähnigen NHC‐Thioether‐Hybridliganden wird vorgestellt. Mit diesen Liganden modifizierte Palladium‐Nanopartikel sind, in Abhängigkeit des verwendeten Liganden, in verschiedenen Lösungsmitteln stabil und zeigen eine hohe Chemoselektivität in der Hydrierung von Olefinen. Die Löslichkeit der Nanopartikel konnte je nach pH‐Wert des Lösungsmittels mehrfach geschaltet werden. Röntgen‐Photoelektronenspektroskopie (die eine feine Verschiebung in der Bindungsenergie zeigt) wurde als praktische Analysemethode zur Bestimmung des Bindungsmodus des NHC‐Liganden identifiziert.
Die spezifische enzymatische Halogenierung – von der Entdeckung halogenierender Enzyme bis zu deren Anwendung in vitro und in vivo
Authors: Weichold Veit , Milbredt Daniela , van Pée Karl‐Heinz
Published: April 2016

Im Verlauf der letzten 20 Jahre hat sich der Fokus von den Haloperoxidasen in Richtung der Flavin‐abhängigen und der Nicht‐Häm‐Eisen‐abhängigen Halogenasen verschoben. Für diese konnte in verschiedenen Organismen die Beteiligung an der Biosynthese halogenierter Metaboliten nachgewiesen werden. Während der ersten 10–12 Jahre lag der Fokus auf dem Nachweis von Halogenasen sowie der Aufklärung der dreidimensionalen Struktur und des Reaktionsmechanismus. In diesem Aufsatz werden hauptsächlich Arbeiten über halogenierende Enzyme mit einem Veröffentlichungsdatum zwischen 2010 und 2015 besprochen. Sein Schwerpunkt liegt auf Arbeiten zur Aufklärung der Beteiligung halogenierender Enzyme an den Biosynthesen halogenierter Metaboliten, der Anwendung von Halogenasen in In‐vivo‐ und In‐vitro‐Systemen, der In‐vivo‐Veränderung von Biosynthesewegen in Bakterien und Pflanzen, der Verbesserung der Enzymstabilität, der Erweiterung des Substratspektrums und der Verknüpfung von Biokatalyse mit chemischer Synthese zur Bildung neuer Verbindungen.
Hierarchical Tubular Structures Composed of Co3O4 Hollow Nanoparticles and Carbon Nanotubes for Lithium Storage
Authors: Chen Yu Ming , Yu Le , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: April 2016

Hierarchical tubular structures composed of Co3O4 hollow nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been synthesized by an efficient multi‐step route. Starting from polymer‐cobalt acetate (Co(Ac)2) composite nanofibers, uniform polymer‐Co(Ac)2@zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67 (ZIF‐67) core–shell nanofibers are first synthesized via partial phase transformation with 2‐methylimidazole in ethanol. After the selective dissolution of polymer‐Co(Ac)2 cores, the resulting ZIF‐67 tubular structures can be converted into hierarchical CNTs/Co‐carbon hybrids by annealing in Ar/H2 atmosphere. Finally, the hierarchical CNT/Co3O4 microtubes are obtained by a subsequent thermal treatment in air. Impressively, the as‐prepared nanocomposite delivers a high reversible capacity of 1281 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 with exceptional rate capability and long cycle life over 200 cycles as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
Gold Doping of Silver Nanoclusters: A 26‐Fold Enhancement in the Luminescence Quantum Yield
Authors: Soldan Giada , Aljuhani Maha A. , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , AbdulHalim Lina G. , Parida Manas R. , Emwas Abdul‐Hamid , Mohammed Omar F. , Bakr Osman M.
Published: April 2016

A high quantum yield (QY) of photoluminescence (PL) in nanomaterials is necessary for a wide range of applications. Unfortunately, the weak PL and moderate stability of atomically precise silver nanoclusters (NCs) suppress their utility. Herein, we accomplished a ≥26‐fold PL QY enhancement of the Ag29(BDT)12(TPP)4 cluster (BDT: 1,3‐benzenedithiol; TPP: triphenylphosphine) by doping with a discrete number of Au atoms, producing Ag29−xAux(BDT)12(TPP)4, x=1–5. The Au‐doped clusters exhibit an enhanced stability and an intense red emission around 660 nm. Single‐crystal XRD, mass spectrometry, optical, and NMR spectroscopy shed light on the PL enhancement mechanism and the probable locations of the Au dopants within the cluster.
All‐Metal Antiaromaticity in Sb4‐Type Lanthanocene Anions
Authors: Min Xue , Popov Ivan A. , Pan Fu‐Xing , Li Lei‐Jiao , Matito Eduard , Sun Zhong‐Ming , Wang Lai‐Sheng , Boldyrev Alexander I.
Published: April 2016

Antiaromaticity, as introduced in 1965, usually refers to monocyclic systems with 4n π electrons. This concept was extended to all‐metal molecules after the observation of Li3Al4− in the gas phase. However, the solid‐phase counterparts have not been documented to date. Herein, we describe a series of all‐metal antiaromatic anions, [Ln(η4‐Sb4)3]3−(Ln=La, Y, Ho, Er, Lu), which were isolated as the K([2.2.2]crypt) salts and identified by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Based on the results obtained from the chemical bonding analysis, multicenter indices, and the electron‐counting rule, we conclude that the core [Ln(η4‐Sb4)3]3− fragment of the crystal has three locally π‐antiaromatic Sb4 fragments. This complex represents the first locally π‐antiaromatic all‐metal system in the solid state, which is stabilized by interactions of the three π‐antiaromatic units with the central metal atom.