bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One Pot Synthesis of Au_ZnO Core‐Shell Nanoparticles Using a Zn Complex Acting as ZnO Precursor, Capping and Reducing Agent During the Formation of Au NPs
Authors: Contino Annalinda , Maccarrone Giuseppe , Spitaleri Luca , Torrisi Lucia , Nicotra Giuseppe , Gulino Antonino
Published: September 2018

Semiconducting ZnO nanostructures show a wide band gap, a large free exciton binding energy, high electron mobility and are excellent for ultraviolet detection. Noble metals absorb visible light and produce localized surface plasmon resonance useful to enhance visible photodetection. Therefore, the coupling of gold nanoparticles and the wide‐band‐gap ZnO semiconductor represents the moist suited way to enhance photodetection. The Au_ZnO system has already been obtained by multiple‐step syntheses that involve the selective preparation of Au nanoparticles and ZnO whose subsequent blending may not be fully effective. In the present study we report on a one pot synthesis of Au_ZnO core‐shell nanoparticles using a zinc complex that acts as ZnO precursor, reducing and capping agent for Au3+ and Au nanoparticles, respectively. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report concerning an inorganic complex that acts as metal oxide precursor, capping molecule and reducing agent during the Au nanoparticles formation.
Activation of Molecular Hydrogen and Oxygen by PSiP Complexes of Cobalt
Authors: Murphy Luke J. , Ruddy Adam J. , McDonald Robert , Ferguson Michael J. , Turculet Laura
Published: September 2018

The syntheses of CoII halide complexes supported by κ3‐(2‐Cy2PC6H4)2SiMe (Cy‐PSiP) ligation are detailed. Reduction of (Cy‐PSiP)Co(PMe3)I could be achieved under mild conditions using magnesium metal to generate the CoI complex (Cy‐PSiP)Co(PMe3)N2 in high yield. When this reaction was carried out under an atmosphere of CO, (Cy‐PSiP)Co(CO)2 was obtained. Unlike the facile reduction of CoII to CoI, attempts to access CoIII species supported by Cy‐PSiP ligation proved challenging. Attempted oxidative addition reactions involving (Cy‐PSiP)Co(PMe3)N2 were generally unsuccessful, with the sole exception of H2, which reacted to afford the dihydride complex (Cy‐PSiP)Co(PMe3)(H)2. The dihydride complex undergoes Co‐H site exchange in solution and readily eliminates H2. The CoI precursor (Cy‐PSiP)Co(PMe3)N2 is a competent precatalyst for the hydrogenation of terminal alkenes. Exposure of (Cy‐PSiP)CoI to O2 gas under anhydrous conditions led to rapid ligand oxidation at Si and P, with no evidence observed at low temperature for a CoIII superoxo or peroxo intermediate. Exclusive oxidation at Si to afford a CoII‐siloxy complex was observed upon treatment of (Cy‐PSiP)CoI with one equiv. Me3NO. While this siloxy complex did not react further with O2, treatment with a second equiv. of Me3NO led to subsequent oxidation involving one phosphino donor. This observation supports the notion that in the ligand oxidation reactivity observed with O2, the O atoms incorporated at both Si and P are likely derived from the same O2 molecule.
Convenient Access to 2‐β‐d‐Glucopyranosylpyridines by Using Bohlmann–Rahtz Heteroannulation
Authors: Reddy Mannem Rajeswara , Aidhen Indrapal Singh
Published: September 2018

Convenient synthesis of 2‐β‐d‐Glucopyranosylpyridines has been achieved by using Bohlmann–Rahtz heteroannulation reaction between a sugar alkynone and ethyl β‐aminocrotonate. The synthesized compounds are analogues of Dapagaliflozin, an approved drug for lowering of blood glucose levels through inhibition of sodium‐glucose transporters in the kidney.
C–H‐Alkenylation of Arenes in a One‐Pot VNS – Julia‐Kocienski Reaction
Authors: Loska Rafał
Published: September 2018

A one‐pot reaction sequence is reported that enables direct introduction of alkenyl substituents into C–H positions of electron‐poor aromatic compounds under transition metal free conditions. The process incorporates vicarious nucleophilic substitution of hydrogen with carbanion of benzotriazolyl chloromethyl sulfone, followed by Julia‐Kocienski olefination with aliphatic or aromatic aldehydes or trifluoromethyl ketones. The resulting nitrostyrene derivatives are usually formed with very high E/Z selectivity.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Carbonylative Coupling Reactions of N,N‐Bis(methanesulfonyl)amides through C–N Bond Cleavage
Authors: Lim Minkyung , Kim Hyeji , Ban Jaeyoung , Son Junghan , Lee Jae Kyun , Min Sun‐Joon , Lee Sang Uck , Rhee Hakjune
Published: September 2018

Palladium‐catalyzed carbonylative coupling reactions of various N,N‐bis(methanesulfonyl)amides with arylboronic acids through C–N bond cleavage were carried out. The reactions proceeded under mild conditions in a short period of time without any additives to afford a wide range of unsymmetrical aryl ketones in excellent yields. This is the first example of a carbonylative coupling reaction using N,N‐bis(methanesulfonyl)amide as a coupling substrate.
A Direct Synthesis of 2‐(ω‐Carboxyalkyl)isoflavones from ortho‐Hydroxylated Deoxybenzoins
Authors: Mrug Galyna P. , Demydchuk Bohdan A. , Bondarenko Svitlana P. , Sviripa Vitaliy M. , Wyrebek Przemyslaw , Mohler James L. , Fiandalo Michael V. , Liu Chunming , Frasinyuk Mykhaylo S. , Watt David S.
Published: September 2018

As part of a program focused on the development of new antineoplastic agents based on scaffolds found in natural products, we explored the isoflavone family as potential enzyme inhibitors. We required biotin‐modified isoflavones to identify potential biological targets, and we selected the C‐2 position in isoflavones as an attachment site for an alkyl group bearing a terminal carboxylic acid to which we could attach a biotin derivative. The base‐catalyzed condensation of 2,4‐dihydroxy‐substituted deoxybenzoins with cyclic anhydrides mediated by a combination of triethylamine and 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene led to an efficient synthesis of the desired 2‐(ω‐carboxyalkyl)isoflavones with functional groups at C‐5, 6 and 7 and with various substituents in the C‐3 phenyl group.
Convenient and Efficient Diastereoselective Preparation of Functionalized Z‐Alkenyl Sulfides
Authors: Doroszuk Justyna , Musiejuk Mateusz , Ponikiewski Łukasz , Witt Dariusz
Published: September 2018

We have developed an efficient and convenient regio‐ and stereoselective reduction of the alkynyl sulfides with pinacolborane in the presence of copper(I) chloride to produce (Z)‐alkenyl sulfides in good and very good yields. The functionalized alkynyl sulfides are readily available based on the reaction of lithium acetylides with thiotosylates under mild conditions.
Dienolates of Cycloalkenones and α,β‐Unsaturated Esters Form Diels–Alder Adducts by a Michael/Michael‐Tandem Reaction Rather Than in One Step
Authors: Loesche Ann‐Christine , Brückner Reinhard
Published: September 2018

α,β‐Unsaturated esters and lithium 1,3‐dien‐2‐olates are known to furnish bicyclic lithium enolates by anionic Diels–Alder reactions. However, in principle, the respective products might form not only in a single step but also in two consecutive – or “tandem” – Michael additions, the first of which occurs intermolecularly, the second intramolecularly. Three cyclic lithium dienolates and four esters with a stereogenic Cα=Cβ bond reacted to give Diels–Alder adducts (10 times) or failed to react (2 times). Seven of the reactive combinations furnished adducts wherein the configuration of the former ester moiety had in part inverted. This precludes concerted pathways as their origins. This was a surprise since donors at C‐2 of the 1,3‐diene accelerate normal electron‐demand Diels–Alder reactions in the order alkyl < aryl < alkoxy ≈ trialkylsiloxy < acylamino. With Li⊕O⊖ being a far better donor still, it is not obvious why the mechanism is non‐concerted rather than concerted (and still more asynchronous).
Mechanism of Propylene Epoxidation via O2 with Co‐Oxidation of Aldehydes by Metalloporphyrins
Authors: Qi Lianshan , Wang Tao , Wei Yongmei , Tian Hengshui
Published: September 2018

Propylene epoxidation by O2 plus acrolein in the presence of metalloporphyrins were investigated. According to the difference in initiation time and the reaction rate, a hypothesis metalloporphyrins or its center ion played a principal role in the initiation of reaction (redox reaction) rather than in the catalysis of PO generation reaction have been proposed, which was verified by the cyclic voltammogram of metalloporphyrins and UV/Vis spectra of samples in the time course study. Furthermore, the propylene epoxidation experiments using aldehydes easier to be initiated and corresponding blank control without metalloporphyrins were also investigated, and the results showed the same conclusion. On the other hand, the mechanism that the active species are peroxyacyl radical and peroxy acid was proposed through density function theory calculations, and in peroxyacyl radical path the intermediate generation process was the free radical addition of propylene by peroxyacyl radical. Moreover, optimum reaction paths were also carried out by computational calculations, the results showed that peroxyacyl radical was with higher activity than peroxy acid. As for peroxyacyl radical, the main addition site was the C1 of propylene, which was proved by the condensed Fukui function.
Spectroelectrochemical Sensor for Spectroscopically Hard‐to‐detect Metals by in situ Formation of a Luminescent Complex Using Ru(II) as a Model Compound
Authors: Lines Amanda M. , Warner Joshua D. , Heineman William R. , Clark Sue B. , Bryan Samuel A.
Published: September 2018

Fast, robust, and cost‐effective means of detecting spectroscopically inactive metal species are necessary for field detection and applications within a variety of areas including industry and the nuclear safeguards fields. A sensor based on spectroelectrochemistry is an excellent candidate to meet these needs as it provides improved selectivity for specifically quantifying metal ions by simultaneously monitoring at least two physio‐chemical properties. Ruthenium was chosen as a model system for this study due to its spectroscopic and electrochemical characteristics as well as its relevance within the fuel cycle and industrial fields. Aqueous Ru displays multiple redox couples in which all available oxidation states have poor sensitivity for detection by visible absorption spectroscopy because of the low molar absorptivities. Ru can, however, form complexes with sensitizing ligands such as 2,2′‐bipyridine, where the resulting [Ru(ligand)3]2+ complex displays a red luminescence with a high quantum yield of emission. This significantly improves detection limits for Ru and allows for the spectroelectrochemical detection of the otherwise hard‐to‐detect metal ion. This work explores the in‐situ generation of Ru(bpy)3 complexes in simulated field samples and their subsequent spectroelectrochemical sensing using our sensor methodology.
Study of aldehyde oxidase by micellar electrokinetic chromatography separation of O6‐benzylguanine and 8‐oxo‐O6‐benzylguanine
Authors: Huang Shengyun , Adams Erwin , Van Schepdael Ann
Published: September 2018

A separation method for O6‐benzylguanine (O6‐BG) and 8‐oxo‐O6‐benzylguanine (8‐oxo‐O6‐BG) is developed by using MEKC. This study includes the optimization of separation and incubation parameters for both off‐line and on‐line procedures. The BGE consisted of 25 mM sodium phosphate buffer‐methanol (70:30, v/v), apparent pH 7.4, in which SDS and methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin were dissolved yielding final concentrations of 50 and 15 mM, respectively. Separations were performed at 15 kV using an untreated fused‐silica capillary (40 cm length, effective length is 30 cm) with the detection wavelength at 195 nm. The capillary was kept at 15°C. Good performances were demonstrated for the repeatability and linearity. The LOQ was determined to be 14 μM for 8‐oxo‐O6‐BG (S/N = 10). The accuracy values showed a bias of +7.9% for 50 μM and –7.0% for 100 μM. Premix and transverse diffusion of laminar flow profiles (TDLFP) methods were used for on‐line mixing and reaction of the substrate O6‐BG with aldehyde oxidase. Both procedures were successful in mixing as well as subsequent separation of the substrate and the metabolite, while the repeatability of TDLFP (14.7% (n = 3)) was much better than the premix technique.
Changes in vegetation cover on the Younghusband Peninsula transgressive dunefields (Australia) 1949–2017
Authors: Moulton Martim A.B. , Hesp Patrick A. , Miot da Silva Graziela , Bouchez Camille , Lavy Muriel , Fernandez Guilherme B.
Published: September 2018

Studies have shown that the impact of climate change, human and animal actions on coastal vegetation can turn stabilized dunes into active mobile dunes and vice versa. Yet, the driving factors that trigger vegetation changes in coastal dunes are still not fully understood. In the transgressive dunefields of the Younghusband Peninsula (south‐east coast of South Australia) historical aerial photographs show an increase in vegetation cover over the last ~70 years. This study attempts to identify the causes of the changes in vegetation cover (1949 to 2017) observed in a typical section of the coastal dune systems of the Peninsula. Vegetation cover was first estimated for various years using the available historical aerial photography (long‐term changes – 1949 to 2017) and recent satellite imagery (short‐term annual changes – 2010 to 2017) for the area, and then results were discussed against the observed changes in climatic variables and rabbit density, factors that could have played a role in this transformation. Results of long‐term changes show that the vegetation cover has increased significantly from 1949 to 2017, from less than 7% vegetation cover to almost 40%, increasing dune stabilization and forming parabolic dune systems. Periods with the largest growth in vegetation cover (1952‐1956 and 2009‐2013) coincide with a significant decline in rabbit numbers. Rabbit density was found to be the primary factor linked to the rapid vegetation growth and stabilization of the dunefield, for both decadal long‐term (last 68 years) and annual short‐term changes (last 8 years). Other factors such as changes in rainfall, aeolian sediment transport, land use practices, and the introduction of invasive plants have apparently played a limited to negligible role in this stabilization process. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LiDAR‐based fluvial remote sensing to assess 50–100‐year human‐driven channel changes at a regional level: The case of the Piedmont Region, Italy
Authors: Bizzi S. , Piégay H. , Demarchi L. , Van de Bund W. , Weissteiner C.J. , Gob F.
Published: September 2018

Remote Sensing (RS) technology has recently offered new and promising opportunities to analyze river systems. In this paper, we present a calibration of characteristic Hydraulic Scaling Law (HSL) using a regional database of river geomorphic features. We consistently linked discharge with channel geometry features for estimated Bankfull Channel Depth (eBCD), Active Channel Width (ACW), and Low Flow water Channel Width (LFCW), which are continuously available from RS data along the river course. We then used historical information and external sources of information on channel reaches that were relatively unaffected by human pressure over periods ranging from a few decades to a century (measured in comparable geographical areas) to infer relatively Unaltered HSLs (rUHSLs). Adopting rUHSL validated with available local historical evidence on channel geometry, we were able to assess historical changes in channel geometry consistently over the entire region and within the studied temporal window.

The case study was conducted for the Po basin in the Piedmont Region, north‐west Italy. From our analysis, it emerges that regionally 74% of the river network has riverbed incisions exceeding 1 m, while 66% of channels have halved their historical widths with a total of 617 ha of land subtracted from the active channel. LFCW is, on average, wider in Alpine rivers compared with those located in the North Apennines.

Although it is currently not possible to measure the accuracy of these estimates, the evidence generated is coherent with available historical information, characteristic hydraulic scaling laws, evidence from relatively unaltered reaches and the available literature on local fluvial systems. This methodology provides robust, novel and quantitative information regarding decadal to secular channel changes that have occurred on a regional scale. This new layer of information enriches our ability to rationally address assessments of large‐scale past and future channel trajectories. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid shoreline progradation followed by vertical foredune building at Pedro Beach, southeastern Australia
Authors: Oliver Thomas S.N. , Tamura Toru , Short Andrew D. , Woodroffe Colin D.
Published: September 2018

At Pedro Beach on the southeastern coast of Australia a series of foredune ridges provides an opportunity to explore the morphodynamic paradigm as it applies to coastal barrier systems using optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating, ground penetrating radar (GPR) and airborne LiDAR topography. A series of sandy dune‐capped ridges, increasing in height seawards, formed fromc. 7000 years ago toc. 3900 years ago. During this time the shoreline straightened as the embayment filled and accommodation space for Holocene sediments diminished. Calculation of Holocene sediment accumulation above mean sea level utilising airborne LiDAR topography shows a decline in average sediment supply over this time period coupled with a decrease in shoreline progradation rate from 1.2 m/yr to 0.38 m/yr. The average ridge ‘exposure lifetime’ during this period increases resulting in higher ridges as dune‐forming processes have longer to operate. Increasing exposure to wave and wind energy also appears to have resulted in higher ridges as the sheltering effect of marginal headlands was diminished. An inherited disequilibrium shoreface profile will drive onshore accumulation of sandy sediments forming a prograded barrier; however, if there is no longer ‘accommodation space’ for sediment, this will be an overriding factor causing the cessation of progradation, as occurredc. 3900 years ago at Pedro Beach. Excess sediment in the nearshore zone after 3900 years ago may have been moved northward to nourish downdrift beaches in the compartment. A high outer foredune has formed through vertical accretion after 500 years ago, evidenced by GPR subsurface structures and OSL ages, with a distinct period of vertical and lee slope accretion and dated to the period 1890–1930 AD. The increased dune sediment transport resulting in foredune building is attributed to recent human disturbance. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recalling Lashley and reconsolidating Hebb
Authors: Nadel L. , Maurer A.P.
Published: September 2018

Many of the foundational theoretical ideas in the field of learning and memory are traced to Donald Hebb. Examination of these ideas and their evolution suggest that Karl Lashley might have significantly influenced their development. Here, we discuss the relationship between Hebb and Lashley, and the parallels between them. Many now investigating the neurobiological basis of memory may be unaware both of Hebb's original descriptions, and the likely substantial contributions of Lashley. Many of their concerns remain with us today, and by clarifying the history we hope to strengthen the foundations of our field.
Predictors of hospital readmissions in internal medicine patients: Application of Andersen's Model
Authors: Kaya Sıdıka , Sain Guven Gulay , Aydan Seda , Toka Onur
Published: September 2018

Objective

This study aimed to identify predictors of internal medicine patients' readmission to hospital, using Andersen's behavioral model.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 2622 patients aged ≥18 years, who were admitted to internal medicine wards at a university hospital between 1 February 2015 and 31 January 2016. Independent variables were divided into four groups (predisposing, enabling, need, and utilization), based on Andersen's model, and included in stepwise logistic regression analysis.

Results

Younger age, male sex, a main diagnosis of neoplasm, longer length of stay, higher comorbidity scores, and weaker coping ability predicted all readmission. Predictors of unplanned readmission included having someone to help at home following discharge, comorbidity scores, and length of stay. Predictors of unplanned, related, and preventable readmissions included having someone to help at home following discharge, having a regular physician, and the main diagnosis at discharge. The most powerful predictors influencing readmission were need‐related variables.

Conclusion

Although some predictors of readmission were unalterable, they could be used to identify high‐risk patients. Innovative approaches targeting discharge planning and postdischarge care for patients with high comorbidity scores and long length of stay could reduce internal medicine patients' unplanned readmission.
Hospital nurse shift length, patient‐centered care, and the perceived quality and patient safety
Authors: Jarrar Mu'taman , Minai Mohd Sobri , Al‐Bsheish Mohammad , Meri Ahmed , Jaber Mustafa
Published: September 2018

Background

There is no clear evidence that can guide decision makers regarding the appropriate shift length in the hospitals in Malaysia. Further, there is no study that explored the value of patient‐centered care of nurses working longer shifts and its impact on the care outcomes.

Objective

The study aims to investigate the effect of the hospital nurse shift length and patient‐centered care on the perceived quality and safety of nurses in the medical‐surgical and multidisciplinary wards in Malaysia.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey has been conducted on 12 hospitals in Malaysia. Data have been collected via a questionnaire. A stratified sampling has been used. The Hayes macro regression analyses have been used to examine the mediating effects of patient‐centered care between the effect of working long shifts on the perceived quality and patient safety.

Results

There is a significant mediation effect of patient‐centered care between the effect of shift length on the perceived quality (F = 42.90,P ˂ 0.001) and patient safety (F = 25.12,P ˂ 0.001).

Conclusion

Patient‐centered care mitigates the effect of the shift length on the care outcomes. The study provides an input for the policymakers that patient‐centered care and restructuring duty hours are important to provide high‐quality patient care.
The effect of Indian Summer Monsoon rainfall on surface water δD values in the central Himalaya
Authors: Meese Bernd , Bookhagen Bodo , Olen Stephanie M. , Barthold Frauke , Sachse Dirk
Published: September 2018

Stable isotope proxy records, such as speleothems, plant‐wax biomarker records, and ice cores, are suitable archives for the reconstruction of regional palaeohydrologic conditions. But the interpretation of these records in the tropics, especially in the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) domain, is difficult due to differing moisture and water sources: precipitation from the ISM and Winter Westerlies, as well as snow‐ and glacial meltwater. In this study, we use interannual differences in ISM strength (2011–2012) to understand the stable isotopic composition of surface water in the Arun River catchment in eastern Nepal. We sampled main stem and tributary water (n = 204) for stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope analysis in the postmonsoon phase of two subsequent years with significantly distinct ISM intensities. In addition to the 2011/2012 sampling campaigns, we collected a 12‐month time series of main stem waters (2012/2013, n = 105) in order to better quantify seasonal effects on the variability of surface water δ18O/δD. Furthermore, remotely sensed satellite data of rainfall, snow cover, glacial coverage, and evapotranspiration was evaluated. The comparison of datasets from both years revealed that surface waters of the main stem Arun and its tributaries were D‐enriched by ~15‰ when ISM rainfall decreased by 20%. This strong response emphasizes the importance of the ISM for surface water run‐off in the central Himalaya. However, further spatio‐temporal analysis of remote sensing data in combination with stream water d‐excess revealed that most high‐altitude tributaries and the Tibetan part of the Arun receive high portions of glacial melt water and likely Winter Westerly Disturbances precipitation. We make the following two implications: First, palaeohydrologic archives found in high‐altitude tributaries and on the southern Tibetan Plateau record a mixture of past precipitation δD values and variable amounts of additional water sources. Second, surface water isotope ratios of lower elevated tributaries strongly reflect the isotopic composition of ISM rainfall implying a suitable region for the analysis of potential δD value proxy records.
Using irrigation to kick‐start multiple‐use water services for small‐scale farmers in Malawi: A case study of the Nkhata Bay District
Authors: Stedman Sam , Mnyimbiri Alien Mathews , Kawonga Zinyengo , Malota Mphatso , Njera Dalo , Hall Ralph P. , Holm Rochelle H.
Published: September 2018

Irrigation schemes are an important part of meeting the national agenda in Malawi, yet the design and management of these schemes have not taken advantage of emerging approaches that could improve their performance. One such idea is the concept of multiple‐use water services (MUS). This case study focuses on rural irrigation systems in the Nkhata Bay District, evaluating system usage, profiles of the irrigators, and barriers to irrigation to identify opportunities to kick‐start MUS using existing organizational structures. Interviews were conducted with 141 respondents from 5 functioning irrigation sections. The study found that there are already systems in place for cooperation, with both the government and communities each contributing to long‐term sustainability. Basic MUS could advance the water–energy–food–health nexus and build more resilient communities. The following recommendations would enable communities and development partners to advance irrigation‐based MUS in Malawi: (i) target long‐established, committed, farmer groups; (ii) provide reliable and sustainable local technologies to lift water; (iii) improve access to markets and inputs to support higher‐value cash crops being grown on irrigated land; (iv) create an overlap between community‐level irrigation and borehole committees, private sectors, local government ministries and development partners. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The long noncoding RNA HIF1A‐AS2 facilitates cisplatin resistance in bladder cancer
Authors: Chen Xiaoliang , Liu Meihan , Meng Fanping , Sun Baozhen , Jin Xuefei , Jia Chunshu
Published: September 2018

Chemotherapy drug resistance frequently happens in more than 50% of bladder cancer patients and is the major obstacle for the bladder cancer therapy. Recent studies have shown that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is involved in the development of chemoresistance. In this study, we reported hypoxia inducible factor 1α‐antisense RNA 2 (HIF1A‐AS2), as a subtype‐specific hypoxia inducible lncRNA, is upregulated in bladder cancer cells and tissue after cisplatin (Cis) treatment. The induction of HIF1A‐AS2 in bladder cancer cells rendered resistance to Cis‐induced apoptosis. Silencing HIF1A‐AS2 in Cis‐resistant bladder cancer cells was re‐sensitized to Cis‐induced apoptosis. Mechanically, we found that HIF1A‐AS2 suppressed the transcription activity of p53 family proteins by promoting the expression of high‐mobility group A1 (HMGA1). The induction of HMGA1 physically interacts with p53, p63, and p73, and therefore constrains their transcriptional activity on Bax. Knockdown of HIF1A‐AS2 or HMGA1 rescued the expression of Bax, which therefore enhanced the killing effect of Cis. Furthermore, we also found that the expression of HIF1A‐AS2 was higher in the human bladder tumor tissues after Cis treatment, and was positive correlated to the expression of HIF1α and HMGA1. This study suggests that upregulated HIF1A‐AS2 hampers the p53 family proteins dependent apoptotic pathway to promote Cis resistance in bladder cancer. Our data suggested that HIF1A‐AS2 plays oncogenic roles and can be used as a therapeutic target for treating human bladder cancer.
LncRNA TP73‐AS1 predicts poor prognosis and functions as oncogenic lncRNA in osteosarcoma
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhou Yu , Liu Shuping , Zhang Desheng , Yang Xi , Zhou Qing , Song Yueming , Liu Yuehong
Published: September 2018

TP73 antisense RNA 1 (TP73‐AS1), a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), has been suggested to be deregulated in various human cancers and serve as a tumor suppressor or promoter, depending on tumor types. The role of TP73‐AS1 in osteosarcoma is still unknown. In our results, TP73‐AS1 was highly expressed in osteosarcoma tissue samples and cell lines compared with matching adjacent nontumor tissue specimens and a normal human osteoblast cell line, respectively. Moreover, high expression of TP73‐AS1 was statistically associated with advanced Enneking stage, large tumor size, present distant metastasis, and poor histological grade, while exhibiting no statistical association with age, sex, and tumor site. The survival analyses showed that patients with osteosarcoma with high expression of TP73‐AS1 obviously had lower overall survival than osteosarcoma patients with low expression of TP73‐AS1, and high expression of TP73‐AS1 was an independent poor prognostic factor for osteosarcoma patients. The experiments in vitro indicated that inhibition of TP73‐AS1 expression depressed osteosarcoma cell viability, migration, and invasion, and arrested cell cycle. In conclusion, TP73‐AS1 serves as oncogenic lncRNA participated in osteosarcoma progression.
Tangeretin inhibits streptozotocin‐induced cell apoptosis via regulating NF‐κB pathway in INS‐1 cells
Authors: Liu Yang , Han Jiakai , Zhou Zhenyu , Li Dandan
Published: September 2018

Oxidative stress is considered to play an important role in inducing the pancreatic β‐cells apoptosis and promoting the development of diabetes mellitus. Tangeretin is a plant‐derived flavonoid that retains antidiabetic effects. However, the role of tangeretin in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced β‐cell apoptosis remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of tangeretin on STZ‐induced cell apoptosis and the underlying mechanisms implicated in vitro. Our results showed that tangeretin improved the cell viability in STZ‐induced INS‐1 cells. Tangeretin reduced the increase of apoptosis ratio and revered the altered expressions of Bax and Bcl‐2 caused by STZ induction. Furthermore, the impairment of insulin secretion ability as well as a reduction in messenger RNA levels of insulin 1 and 2 was significantly attenuated by tangeretin in STZ‐induced INS‐1 cells. Moreover, tangeretin resulted in a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species content, accompanied by an evident increase in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. Mechanistic studies further revealed that tangeretin inhibited the NF‐κB pathway in STZ‐induced INS‐1 cells. These data indicated that tangeretin improved the cell apoptosis induced by STZ in INS‐1 cells, which might be partly due to its antioxidant potential. Furthermore, NF‐κB was found to be involved in the protective effect of tangeretin. Collectively, the results indicated that tangeretin could be used as a therapeutic approach for diabetes mellitus treatment.
Copy number variations in the GATA4, NKX2‐5, TBX5, BMP4 CRELD1, and 22q11.2 gene regions in Chinese children with sporadic congenital heart disease
Authors: Li Zhetao , Huang Jiwei , Liang Biao , Zeng Dingyuan , Luo Shiqiang , Yan Tizhen , Liao Fengwen , Huang Jun , Li Jingwen , Cai Ren , Deng Xine , Tang Ning
Published: September 2018

Background

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a common birth defect originating from both environmental and genetic factors. An overabundance of copy number variations (CNVs) affecting cardiac‐related genes has previously been detected in individuals with CHD.

Objective

To evaluate if the presence of CNVs in the 22q11.2 region, and to determine whether GATA4, NKX2‐5, TBX5, BMP, and CRELD1 genes contributed toward the pathogenesis of isolated incidences of CHDs in southwest China.

Methods

In total 167 patients from southwest China with sporadic CHD were studied, including 121 patients with ventricular septal defect (VSD), 24 with atrial septal defect (ASD), 12 with tetralogy of fallot (TOF), six VSD cases with TOF, two cases with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and two VSD cases with ASD. 22q11.2, GATA4, NKX2‐5, TBX5, BMP4, and CRELD1 regions were screened using MLPA and copy number variation sequencing (CNV‐Seq).

Results

A 2.5‐2.8 Mb deletion in the 22q11.2 region was identified in 5 patients with CHD. Two of these patients were diagnosed with VSD, while two had VSD and ASD, and the other had TOF. 5 patients correspond to the same classical DiGeorge syndrome. A 0.86 Mb duplication in the 22q11.2 region was identified in a PDA patient, whom was without extracardiac symptoms.

Conclusion

These data suggest that copy number variation in the 22q11.2 region is common in CHD patients in southwest China. Regardless of the presence or absence of extracardiac symptoms, results also indicate that it is necessary to perform prenatal screening for CHD.
Hb I: A α‐globin chain variant causing unexpected HbA1c results
Authors: Xu Anping , Sun Jian , Li Jie , Chen Weidong , Zheng Ruoyang , Han Zhonghou , Ji Ling
Published: September 2018

Background

HbA1c is the standard bio‐marker for glycemic control in patients with diabetes. Here, we report a α‐globin chain variant and evaluate its effect on HbA1c measurements.

Methods

A 21‐year‐old female was suspected of harboring a hemoglobin variant following HbA1c measurement during a routine examination using Variant II Turbo 2.0 (Bio‐Rad). An oral glucose tolerance test was performed using an AU5800 clinical chemistry system (Beckman Coulter). HbA1c was reanalyzed using D10 (Bio‐Rad), Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing (Sebia), and Premier Hb9210 (Trinity Biotech). Hemoglobin analysis was performed using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on the Bio‐Rad Variant II (β‐thalassemia short program) and capillary electrophoresis (CE, Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing, Hb program). Sanger sequencing of α and β genes was also conducted.

Results

HbA1c was initially measured at 24.2% using Variant II Turbo 2.0. For the oral glucose tolerance test, fasting glucose, 1‐hour, and 2‐hour levels were recorded as 4.25, 7.89, and 5.34 mmol/L, respectively. Subsequently, HbA1c values determined by D10, Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing (HbA1c program), and Premier Hb9210 were 4.5% (26 mmol/mol), no HbA1c value, and 4.8 (29 mmol/mol), respectively. Hemoglobin analyzed using CE and HPLC revealed an abnormal hemoglobin. Sanger sequencing identified a transversion mutation of the α2 gene [CD16(AAG>GAG), Lys>Glu, HBA2: c.49 A>G], corresponding to a Hb I variant.

Conclusion

An unusually high HbA1c or discordance between blood sugar and HbA1c values should alert about the possibilities of hemoglobin variants.
Wnt/β‐catenin signaling cascade: A promising target for glioma therapy
Authors: He Lu , Zhou Hong , Zeng Zhiqing , Yao Hailun , Jiang Weiping , Qu Hongtao
Published: September 2018

Glioma is one of the most treatment‐refractory intracranial tumors, and the aberrant expressed Wnt/β‐catenin pathway is closely associated with glioma malignancy. In this regard, Wnt/β‐catenin signaling has been reported to play an essential role in cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis, therefore contributing to glioma progression. However, the underlying mechanisms of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling involvement in gliomagenesis remain unknown. Here, we present an overview of the Wnt components and then go on to summarize the current knowledge describing the multitude of roles of Wnt/β‐catenin in glioma, which are mediated by transcription factors, microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and so on. In the latter portion of the review, we elaborate the increasing apparent crosstalk of Wnt/β‐catenin pathway with PI3K/AKT signaling involved in these processes. Ultimately, compounds targeting the Wnt/β‐catenin are described in glioma. As better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms to glioma malignancies increases, Wnt/β‐catenin cascade may represent an area of developmental glioma therapeutics focus.
Imaging mass spectrometry of gold nanoparticles in a tissue section as an immunohistochemical staining mass probe
Authors: Muko Daiki , Ikenaga Takanori , Kasai Masanori , Rabor Janice B. , Nishitani Atsushi , Niidome Yasuro
Published: September 2018

For analysis of low abundance peptides in a tissue section, immunohistochemical staining through antibody‐antigen interaction is a usual technique. The antibody is conjugated with a probe moiety that aids in highly sensitive detection. Gold nanoparticles, which show excellent chemical stability and variation of surface modifications, are expected to act as a sensitive mass probe to desorb gold ions (Au+, Au2+, Au3+) that are distinguishable from fragment ions from organic molecules. Here, green fluorescent proteins (GFP) in a tissue section of a transgenic zebrafish were detected by the gold mass probe conjugated with antibodies. Due to the efficient ionization and desorption of gold ions, imaging mass spectrometry of Au2+ ions indicated the distribution of gold nanoparticles stained in a tissue section, and the mass signal distribution was consistent with the area where the GFP‐expressing cells were distributed. Conventional immunofluorescence techniques showed intense autofluorescence that come from intrinsic fluorophores in the tissue section. In contrast, the gold nanoparticles acted as an immunostaining mass probe that displayed significantly lower background signals.
Electron transfer dissociation mass spectrometry of acidic phosphorylated peptides cationized with trivalent praseodymium
Authors: Commodore Juliette J. , Cassady Carolyn J.
Published: September 2018

The lanthanide ion praseodymium, Pr(III), was employed to study metallated ion formation and electron transfer dissociation (ETD) of 27 biological and model highly acidic phosphopeptides. All phosphopeptides investigated form metallated ions by electrospray ionization (ESI) that can be studied by ETD to yield abundant sequence information. The ions formed are [M + Pr − H]2+, [M + Pr]3+, and [M + Pr + H]4+. All biological phosphopeptides with a chain length of seven or more residues generate [M + Pr]3+. For biological phosphopeptides, [M + Pr]3+ undergoes more backbone cleavage by ETD than [M + Pr – H]2+ and, in some cases, full sequence coverage occurs. Acidic model phosphorylated hexa‐peptides and octa‐peptides, composed of alanine residues and one phosphorylated residue, form exclusively [M + Pr – H]2+ by ESI. Limited sequence information is obtained by ETD of [M + Pr – H]2+ with only metallated product ions being generated. For two biological phosphopeptides, [M + Pr + H]4+ is observed and may be due to the presence of at least one residue with a highly basic side chain that facilitates the addition of an extra proton. For the model phosphopeptides, more sequence coverage occurs when the phosphorylated residue is in the middle of the sequence than at either the N‐ or C‐terminus. ETD of the metallated precursor ions formed by ESI generates exclusively metallated and nonmetallated c‐ and z‐ions for the biological phosphopeptides, while metallated c‐ions, z‐ions, and a few y‐ions form for the model phosphopeptides. Most of the product ions contain the phosphorylated residue indicating that the metal ion binds predominantly at the deprotonated phosphate group. The results of this study indicate that ETD is a promising tool for sequencing highly acidic phosphorylated peptides by metal adduction with Pr (III) and, by extension, all nonradioactive lanthanide metal ions.
EM‐driven constrained miniaturization of antennas using adaptive in‐band reflection acceptance threshold
Authors: Johanesson David O. , Koziel Slawomir , Bekasiewicz Adrian
Published: September 2018

Numerical optimization of geometry parameters is a critical stage of the design process of compact antennas. It is also challenging because size reduction is constrained by the necessity of fulfilling imposed electrical performance requirements. Furthermore, full‐wave electromagnetic (EM) analysis needs to be used for reliable performance evaluation of the antenna structure, which is computationally expensive. In this paper, an improved procedure for optimization‐driven design miniaturization of antenna structures is considered. We investigate the properties of explicit formulation with the footprint area minimization being a primary design objective and a penalty function introduced to control reflection characteristic of the antenna at hand. Deficiencies of this approach are pointed out, in particular, difficulties in exploring the boundary of the feasible part of the design space (otherwise necessary due to the fact that the reflection constraint is normally active at the minimum size antenna design). A novel formulation with adaptive adjustment of the maximum acceptable in‐band reflection level threshold is proposed and demonstrated to be superior over the conventional (fixed threshold) setup, ie, leading to smaller footprints without degrading electrical performance parameters. Our considerations are illustrated using 2 broadband antenna structures.
Analysis of spatio‐temporal bias of Weather Research and Forecasting temperatures based on weather pattern classification
Authors: Le Roux Renan , Katurji Marwan , Zawar‐Reza Peyman , Quénol Hervé , Sturman Andrew
Published: September 2018

Viticulture is a key economic activity for many countries around the world, and temperature is one of the most important parameters in grapevine response. Many studies have shown that variability of temperature at the vineyard scale has a significant effect on physiological development of the grapevine and, ultimately, wine quality. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model has been widely used to dynamically downscale from the synoptic and larger scale atmospheric circulation in order to provide a high‐resolution analysis of weather and climate in regions of complex terrain. The temperature bias of the WRF model in a vineyard region is analysed using 18 automatic weather stations in order to understand the spatial variation in the bias due to local conditions. The WRF‐predicted temperatures exhibited an average bias that was relatively consistent between measurement sites, although the consistency of this bias was found to vary in relation to weather type, time of day and season. These factors therefore need to be taken into account in order to properly correct temperatures produced by the WRF model.
Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly for Artificial Biology: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Cheng Gong , Pérez‐Mercader Juan
Published: September 2018

The study of the origin of life and current undergoing efforts to produce artificial chemical systems mimicking the behavior of natural living systems have emerged as a hot topic at the interfaces among disciplines. In these two problems, the spontaneous generation of free‐energy gradients by means of material interfaces plays a central role and, until recently, hindered progress. Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is a promising strategy for the formation of polymeric vesicles from a homogeneous mixture which, in the form of artificial biology, may reflect and inform the generation of vesicular structures in primitive Earth. In the past few years, PISA has been used for the construction of biomimetic vesicles or artificial protocells in artificial biology. These not only give inspiration for decoding some aspects of the origin of life in arbitrary environments but also offer potential for building innovative functional systems with a wide variety of applications. In this review, a brief summary of some of the unique possibilities offered by PISA and the development of PISA in exploration of artificial biology is provided, while some of the allied current challenges, limitations, and opportunities in this exciting field are highlighted.
Bipaddle chimaeric forehead flap: A new technique for simultaneous lining and cutaneous reconstruction in case of full thickness defects of the nose
Authors: Brunetti Beniamino , Tenna Stefania , Barone Mauro , Cassotta Gabriella , Casale Manuele , Persichetti Paolo
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Many techniques have been described to treat full thickness nasal defects. The authors introduce the bipaddle chimaeric forehead flap (BCFF), a new alternative technique to achieve simultaneous lining and cutaneous reconstruction in case of full thickness hemi‐nasal defects, presenting surgical details and applications for its clinical use.

Patients and methods

From June 2015 to April 2017, 10 patients presenting with oncological full thickness defects involving nasal sidewall and/or nasal ala were reconstructed with the BCFF technique. Mean age was 69.4 years. The chimaeric flap was composed of 2 paddles (cutaneous and periosteal), nourished by a single supratrochlear pedicle, which were used to independently reconstruct the deficient cutaneous and mucosal layers of the nose. Cartilage grafts were used in 8/10 patients.

Results

Mean surgical time was 114 minutes. An intermediate thinning operation was performed in 3 out of 10 patients. All the flaps survived with no partial necrosis or cartilage exposure observed. Viability and mucosalization of the periosteal paddle was documented both intra‐operatively (during the 2nd stage of the operation) and postoperatively (with fiberoptic rhinoscopy performed 3 months after the procedure). Clinical follow‐up period ranged from 4 to 24 months postoperatively. The final result was judged sufficient, good and excellent in 1, 5, and 4 cases, respectively.

Conclusions

The BCFF technique may be a new alternative approach to address full thickness hemi‐nasal defects with no extra donor site morbidity, allowing primary placement of structural cartilage grafts and immediate definition of the nasal subunits to be reconstructed.
Wave propagation in a diffusive SEIR epidemic model with nonlocal reaction and standard incidence rate
Authors: Wu Xin , Tian Baochuan , Yuan Rong
Published: September 2018

We study the existence and nonexistence of traveling waves of the reaction‐diffusion equations that describes a diffusive SEIR model with nonlocal reaction between the infected subpopulation and the susceptible subpopulation, where the total population is not constant. The existence of traveling waves depends on the basic reproduction number R0 of the corresponding ordinary differential equations and the minimal wave speed c∗. The main difficulty is the lack of order‐preserving property of our general system. Its proof is showed by constructing a closed and convex set and applying Schauder fixed point theorem. The proof of nonexistence result is obtained by two‐side Laplace transform. Finally, we present some numerical results of the minimal wave speed.