bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors using homogenous cell‐based assays in quantitative high‐throughput screening platforms
Authors: Li Shuaizhang , Huang Ruili , Solomon Samuel , Liu Yitong , Zhao Bin , Santillo Michael F. , Xia Menghang
Published: March 2017

Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is an enzyme responsible for metabolism of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with muscle movement, cognition, and other neurobiological processes. Inhibition of AChE activity can serve as a therapeutic mechanism, but also cause adverse health effects and neurotoxicity. In order to efficiently identify AChE inhibitors from large compound libraries, homogenous cell‐based assays in high‐throughput screening platforms are needed. In this study, a fluorescent method using Amplex Red (10‐acetyl‐3,7‐dihydroxyphenoxazine) and the Ellman absorbance method were both developed in a homogenous format using a human neuroblastoma cell line (SH‐SY5Y). An enzyme‐based assay using Amplex Red was also optimized and used to confirm the potential inhibitors. These three assays were used to screen 1368 compounds, which included a library of pharmacologically active compounds (LOPAC) and 88 additional compounds from the Tox21 program, at multiple concentrations in a quantitative high‐throughput screening (qHTS) format. All three assays exhibited exceptional performance characteristics including assay signal quality, precision, and reproducibility. A group of inhibitors were identified from this study, including known (e.g. physostigmine and neostigmine bromide) and potential novel AChE inhibitors (e.g. chelerythrine chloride and cilostazol). These results demonstrate that this platform is a promising means to profile large numbers of chemicals that inhibit AChE activity.
Experimental validation of in silico estimated biomass yields of Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Hintermayer Sarah Beate , Weuster‐Botz Dirk
Published: March 2017

Pseudomonas putida is rapidly becoming a microbial cell platform for biotechnological applications. In order to understand genotype‐phenotype relationships genome scale models represent helpful tools. However, the validation of in silico predictions of genome scale models is a task that is rarely performed. In this study the theoretical biomass yields of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 were estimated for 57 different carbon sources based on a genome scale stoichiometric model applying flux balance analysis. The batch growth of P. putida KT2440 with six individual carbon sources covering the range of maximal to minimal in silico biomass yields (acetate, glycerol, citrate, succinate, malate and methanol, respectively) was studied in a defined mineral medium in a fully controlled stirred‐tank bioreactor on a 3 L scale. The highest growth rate of P. putida KT2440 was measured with succinate as carbon source (0.51 h−1). Among the 57 carbon sources tested, glycerol resulted in the highest estimated biomass yield (0.61 molCBiomass molC−1Glycerol) which was experimentally confirmed. The comparison of experimental determined biomass yields with a modified version of the model iJP815 showed deviations of only up to 10%. The experimental data generated in this study can also be used in future studies to further improve the genome scale models of P. putida KT2440. Improved models will then help to gain deeper insights in genotype‐phenotype relationships.
Engineering Saccharomyces cerevisiae fatty acid composition for increased tolerance to octanoic acid
Authors: Besada‐Lombana Pamela B. , Fernandez‐Moya Ruben , Fenster Jacob , Da Silva Nancy A.
Published: March 2017

Biorenewable chemicals such as short and medium chain fatty acids enable functional or direct substitution of petroleum‐derived building blocks, allowing reduction of anthropogenic greenhouse gases while meeting market needs of high‐demand products like aliphatic alcohols and alpha olefins. However, producing these fatty acids in microorganisms can be challenging due to toxicity issues. Octanoic acid (C8) can disrupt the integrity of the cell membrane in yeast, and exogenous supplementation of oleic acid has been shown to help alleviate this. We recently engineered the Saccharomyces cerevisiae enzyme acetyl‐CoA carboxylase by replacing serine residue 1157 with alanine to prevent deactivation by phosphorylation. Expression of Acc1S1157A in S. cerevisiae resulted in an increase in total fatty acid production, with the largest increase for oleic acid. In this study, we evaluated the effect of this modified lipid profile on C8 toxicity to the yeast. Expression of Acc1S1157A in S. cerevisiae BY4741 increased the percentage of oleic acid 3.1‐ and 1.6‐fold in the absence and presence of octanoic acid challenge, respectively. Following exposure to 0.9 mM of C8 for 24 h, the engineered yeast had a 10‐fold higher cell density relative to the baseline strain. Moreover, overexpressing Acc1S1157A allowed survival at C8 concentrations that were lethal for the baseline strain. This marked reduction of toxicity was shown to be due to higher membrane integrity as an 11‐fold decrease in leakage of intracellular magnesium was observed. Due to the increase in oleic acid, this approach has the potential to reduce toxicity of other valuable bioproducts such as shorter chain aliphatic acids and alcohols and other membrane stressors. In an initial screen, increased resistance to n‐butanol, 2‐propanol, and hexanoic acid was demonstrated with cell densities 3.2‐, 1.8‐, and 29‐fold higher than the baseline strain, respectively. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1531–1538. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Meta-analysis of biomarkers predicting risk of malignant progression in Barrett's oesophagus
Authors: Altaf K , Xiong J-J , De la Iglesia D , Hickey L , Kaul A
Published: March 2017

Background

Barrett's oesophagus is a precursor to the development of oesophageal adenocarcinoma. This study sought to clarify the role of genetic, chromosomal and proliferation biomarkers that have been the subjects of multiple studies through meta-analysis.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for clinical studies assessing the value of p53, p16, Ki-67 and DNA content abnormalities in Barrett's oesophagus. The main outcome measure was the risk of development of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or oesophageal adenocarcinoma.

Results

Some 102 studies, with 12 353 samples, were identified. Mutation (diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) 10·91, sensitivity 47 per cent, specificity 92 per cent, positive likelihood ratio (PLR) 4·71, negative likelihood ratio (NLR) 0·65, area under the curve (AUC) 0·792) and loss (DOR 16·16, sensitivity 31 per cent, specificity 98 per cent, PLR 6·66, NLR 0·41, AUC 0·923) of p53 were found to be superior to the other p53 abnormalities (loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and overexpression). Ki-67 had high sensitivity in identifying high-risk patients (DOR 5·54, sensitivity 82 per cent, specificity 48 per cent, PLR 1·59, NLR 0·42, AUC 0·761). Aneuploidy (DOR 12·08, sensitivity 53 per cent, specificity 87 per cent, PLR 4·26, NLR 0·42, AUC 0·846), tetraploidy (DOR 5·87, sensitivity 46 per cent, specificity 85 per cent, PLR 3·47, NLR 0·65, AUC 0·793) and loss of Y chromosome (DOR 9·23, sensitivity 68 per cent, specificity 80 per cent, PLR 2·67, NLR 0·49, AUC 0·807) also predicted malignant development, but p16 aberrations (hypermethylation, LOH, mutation and loss) failed to demonstrate any advantage over the other biomarkers studied.

Conclusion

Loss and mutation of p53, and raised level of Ki-67 predicted malignant progression in Barrett's oesophagus.
Non-technical skills of surgical trainees and experienced surgeons
Authors: Gostlow H , Marlow N , Thomas M J W , Hewett P J , Kiermeier A , Babidge W , Altree M , Pena G , Maddern G
Published: March 2017

Background

In addition to technical expertise, surgical competence requires effective non-technical skills to ensure patient safety and maintenance of standards. Recently the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons implemented a new Surgical Education and Training (SET) curriculum that incorporated non-technical skills considered essential for a competent surgeon. This study sought to compare the non-technical skills of experienced surgeons who completed their training before the introduction of SET with the non-technical skills of more recent trainees.

Methods

Surgical trainees and experienced surgeons undertook a simulated scenario designed to challenge their non-technical skills. Scenarios were video recorded and participants were assessed using the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) scoring system. Participants were divided into subgroups according to years of experience and their NOTSS scores were compared.

Results

For most NOTSS elements, mean scores increased initially, peaking around the time of Fellowship, before decreasing roughly linearly over time. There was a significant downward trend in score with increasing years since being awarded Fellowship for six of the 12 NOTSS elements: considering options (score −0·015 units per year), implementing and reviewing decisions (−0·020 per year), establishing a shared understanding (−0·014 per year), setting and maintaining standards (−0·024 per year), supporting others (−0·031 per year) and coping with pressure (−0·015 per year).

Conclusion

The drop in NOTSS score was unexpected and highlights that even experienced surgeons are not immune to deficiencies in non-technical skills. Consideration should be given to continuing professional development programmes focusing on non-technical skills, regardless of the level of professional experience.
The cremasteric reflex and its muscle – a paragon of ongoing scientific discussion: A systematic review
Authors: Schwarz Gilbert M. , Hirtler Lena
Published: March 2017

The technique of triggering the cremasteric reflex and its respective signaling pathway is not described uniformly throughout the literature. As this reflex is a useful sign in diagnosing testicular torsion, orchitis, varicocele, and undescended testis, it seems desirable to identify and define the correct mechanism. Our aim was to investigate how the cremasteric reflex and its signaling pathway are described in the current literature and how the variability of the innervation of the inguinal region could affect the frequency of this reflex. Thirty‐five original articles and 18 current textbooks were included after searching PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scopus for the terms “cremaster muscle,” “cremasteric reflex,” and “genitofemoral nerve” and after applying all exclusion criteria. This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA Statement Rules. Eliciting the cremasteric reflex was defined either as “rubbing of the upper inner thigh” or “rubbing of the skin under the inguinal ligament.” Four different afferent pathways among studies and three different pathways among textbooks were described and the frequency of an intact reflex ranged between 42.7 and 92.5% in newborns and between 61.7 and 100% in boys between 24 months and 12 years. Owing to the huge differences among the studies investigated and the lack of convincing results, it is not possible to define the correct way to elicit the cremasteric reflex. Four hypotheses about the afferent pathway are proposed on the basis of the literature. Further studies should be performed, concentrating on the afferent pathway(s) with respect to the individual innervation of the inguinal region. Clin. Anat. 30:498–507, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A teaching–learning tool for elementary psychrometric processes on psychrometric chart using MATLAB
Authors: Gupta Pankaj Kumar , Patel R. N.
Published: March 2017

A teaching–learning tool for elementary psychrometric processes on psychrometric chart is developed using MATLAB. First, coding was done in MATLAB to represent the psychrometric chart showing various properties. Secondly, calculations for obtaining various psychrometric parameters of air–water vapor mixture given any two input parameters were coded. Graphical user interface (GUI) was created for user input while the various elementary psychrometric processes are output on psychrometric chart prepared using MATLAB. The software tool was thoroughly validated against results in open literature. Students in different groups were taught basics of Psychrometry with different teaching approaches. Student group exposed to teaching with the developed tool performed much better than other groups. Students’ response in a survey revealed that the MATLAB‐based teaching–learning tool increased students’ performance significantly over the conventional approach. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 25:458–467, 2017; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21813
Medical expert warns against overlooking concussion risks, liabilities in soccer
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2017

When people think of concussions, they most likely think of football.
Manage challenges by emphasizing clear, ongoing communication within and beyond your department
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: March 2017

As director of athletics at Olivet Nazarene University, Gary Newsome has found it challenging to maintain a strong coaching staff that also has a strong mission fit.
Antenatal gastrointestinal anomalies in neonates subsequently found to have alveolar capillary dysplasia
Authors: Goel Dimple , Oei Ju Lee , Lui Kei , Ward Meredith , Shand Antonia W. , Mowat David , Gifford Andrew J. , Loo Christine
Published: March 2017

Key Clinical Message

Alveolar capillary dysplasia (ACD) is a rare condition with variable presentation and clinical course. Clinicians should consider this diagnosis in neonates presenting with nonlethal congenital gastrointestinal malformation, a period of well‐being after birth then unremitting hypoxemia and refractory pulmonary hypertension. Lung biopsy and FOXF1 gene testing may help in diagnosis.
Modulating Properties of Pure ZrO2 for Structure–activity Relationships in Acid‐base Catalysis: Contribution of the Alginate Preparation Route
Authors: Wan Elodie , Travert Arnaud , Quignard Françoise , Tichit Didier , Tanchoux Nathalie , Petitjean Hugo
Published: March 2017

Structure–activity relationships in heterogeneous catalysis demand the development of original preparation routes to create catalyst sets with extended surface properties. Pure zirconia is a bifunctional catalyst which shows a high versatility in acid‐base catalysis. The present work aims to synthesize a set of zirconia catalysts with various acid–base reactivities. It proposes a new route to prepare pure zirconia using sodium alginate, a low‐cost biosourced polymer. This zirconia phase is compared to samples obtained from two more conventional preparation routes, precipitation and sol‐gel. Upon calcination (500–900 °C), the alginate‐derived zirconia maintains a high specific area, which can be explained by the high dispersion of the zirconyl species in the ionogel precursor. Moreover, the three types of catalysts have distinct acid–base properties, as shown by CO2 adsorption and catalysis (methylbutynol model reaction). The alginate‐derived ZrO2 has a higher and more stable amphoteric reactivity than the phases obtained by precipitation and sol‐gel, which can be rationalized by a higher level of Lewis acid‐base pairs.
Electrochemistry of Methylated N‐Confused Free‐Base Tetraarylporphyrins in Nonaqueous Media
Authors: Wang Wenda , Ou Zhongping , Chen Minyuan , Zhang Ying , Fang Yuanyuan , Kadish Karl M.
Published: March 2017

Four methylated N‐confused free‐base tetraarylporphyrins, which are represented as N‐CH3(Ar)4NcpH2 (Ar =CH3OPh, CH3Ph, Ph or ClPh), were synthesized and characterized in terms of their spectral and electrochemical properties in nonaqueous media. The first one‐electron oxidation of each porphyrin is reversible and located at E1/2=0.51–0.71 V, whereas the first one‐electron reduction is quasi‐reversible and located between −0.98 and −1.11 V vs. SCE. The electrochemically measured HOMO−LUMO gap ranged from 1.62 to 1.73 V, depending upon the solvent and meso‐substituents on the macrocycle, and this range of values is similar to the HOMO−LUMO gaps of both the non‐methylated N‐confused porphyrins, (Ar)4NcpH2 (1.60–1.68 V), and the nitrated N‐confused porphyrins, NO2(Ar)4NcpH2 (1.58–1.68 V). The effect of the N‐methyl group on UV/Vis spectra and reduction/oxidation potentials as well as the mechanisms of electron transfer are discussed, and comparisons made with data in the literature for both the non‐methylated N‐confused porphyrins and related N‐confused porphyrins having the same meso‐substituents and an inner nitro‐substituted carbon atom.
Highly Efficient Bulky α‐Diimine Palladium Complexes for Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: Huo Ping , Li Jingbo , Liu Wanyun , Mei Guangquan
Published: March 2017

A series of bulky 9,10‐dihydro‐9,10‐ethanoanthracene‐11,12‐diimine methyl palladium chloride complexes (C1—C6) with different steric and electronic substituent have been applied in Suzuki‐Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions. The influence of these substituents was investigated by comparing the catalytic performance of the complexes in the cross‐coupling reactions and it can be found that the complex with bulky and electron‐donating substituent is facilitated for the cross‐coupling reaction of aryl halides with arylboronic acids under ambient atmosphere. The most active complex shows a wide substrate scope in excellent yields using very low catalyst concentration of 0.01 mol%.
Cytochrome P450 Enzyme‐Copper Phosphate Hybrid Nano‐Flowers with Superior Catalytic Performances for Selective Oxidation of Sulfides
Authors: He Xiaohui , Chen Long , He Qian , Xiao Huajian , Zhou Xiantai , Ji Hongbing
Published: March 2017

Cytochrome P450 enzyme‐copper phosphate hybrid materials with flower‐like shape were prepared with a simple but efficient coprecipitation method. The growth process of the hybrid flowers can be divided into three successive steps: coordination/nucleation, growth, and further ripen. The concentration of enzymes in the mother liquor exerted great influence on the morphology and surface enzyme content of the nano‐composites. The catalytic performance in the reaction of selective oxidation of sulfide to sulfoxide was also investigated. The hybrid flowers exhibited superior catalytic performance: satisfied thioanisole conversion and selectivity to methyl phenyl sulfoxide (both above 97%) with H2O2 as oxidant under mild reaction conditions, excellent stability and recyclability, and wide scope of substrates. Such results indicate that the hybrid materials are potentially good candidates in the industrial enzyme catalysis.
Synthesis and Opioid Activity of Tyr1‐ψ[(Z)CF=CH]‐Gly2 and Tyr1‐ψ[(S)/(R)‐CF3CH‐NH]‐Gly2 Leu‐enkephalin Fluorinated Peptidomimetics
Authors: Karad Somnath Narayan , Pal Mohan , Crowley Rachel S. , Prisinzano Thomas E. , Altman Ryan A.
Published: March 2017

We describe the design, synthesis, and opioid activity of fluoroalkene (Tyr1‐ψ[(Z)CF=CH]‐Gly2) and trifluoroethylamine (Tyr1‐ψ[(S)/(R)‐CF3CH‐NH]‐Gly2) analogues of the endogenous opioid neuropeptide, Leu‐enkephalin. The fluoroalkene peptidomimetic exhibited low nanomolar functional activity (5.0±2 nm and 60±15 nm for δ‐ and μ‐opioid receptors, respectively) with a μ/δ‐selectivity ratio that mimics that of the natural peptide. However, the trifluoroethylamine peptidomimetics, irrespective of stereochemistry, did not activate the opioid receptors, which suggest that bulky CF3 substituents are not tolerated at this position.
Genetic alterations in TRAF3 and CYLD that regulate nuclear factor κB and interferon signaling define head and neck cancer subsets harboring human papillomavirus
Authors: Chen Tony , Zhang Jialing , Chen Zhong , Van Waes Carter
Published: March 2017

Recent genomic studies of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by The Cancer Genome Atlas as well as other groups identified deletions or mutations in tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 3 (TRAF3) and cylindromatosis lysine 63 deubiquitinase (CYLD) that previously were implicated in nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and antiviral interferon responses. In this issue, Hajek et al find genomic alterations in TRAF3/CYLD define distinct subsets of human papillomavirus‐positive head and neck squamous cell carcinomas with associated activation of transcription factor NF‐κB, episomal human papillomavirus infection of tumors, and improved patient survival.

See also pages 1778‐90.
Comparative analysis of monoaminergic cerebrospinal fluid‐contacting cells in Osteichthyes (bony vertebrates)
Authors: Xavier Anna L. , Fontaine Romain , Bloch Solal , Affaticati Pierre , Jenett Arnim , Demarque Michaël , Vernier Philippe , Yamamoto Kei
Published: March 2017

Cerebrospinal fluid‐contacting (CSF‐c) cells containing monoamines such as dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5‐HT) occur in the periventricular zones of the hypothalamic region of most vertebrates except for placental mammals. Here we compare the organization of the CSF‐c cells in chicken, Xenopus, and zebrafish, by analyzing the expression of synthetic enzymes of DA and 5‐HT, respectively, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), and draw an evolutionary scenario for this cell population. Due to the lack of TH immunoreactivity in this region, the hypothalamic CSF‐c cells have been thought to take up DA from the ventricle instead of synthesizing it. We demonstrate that a second TH gene (TH2) is expressed in the CSF‐c cells of all the three species, suggesting that these cells do indeed synthetize DA. Furthermore, we found that many CSF‐c cells coexpress TH2 and TPH1 and contain both DA and 5‐HT, a dual neurotransmitter phenotype hitherto undescribed in the brain of any vertebrate. The similarities of CSF‐c cells in chicken, Xenopus, and zebrafish suggest that these characteristics are inherited from the common ancestor of the Osteichthyes. A significant difference between tetrapods and teleosts is that teleosts possess an additional CSF‐c cell population around the posterior recess (PR) that has emerged in specific groups of Actinopterygii. Our comparative analysis reveals that the hypothalamus in mammals and teleosts has evolved in a divergent manner: placental mammals have lost the monoaminergic CSF‐c cells, while teleosts have increased their relative number.
Effect of cerebrospinal fluid modeling on spherically convergent shear waves during blunt head trauma
Authors: Madhukar Amit , Chen Ying , Ostoja‐Starzewski Martin
Published: March 2017

The MRI‐based computational model, previously validated by tagged MRI and harmonic phase imaging analysis technique on in vivo human brain deformation, is used to study transient wave dynamics during blunt head trauma. Three different constitutive models are used for the cerebrospinal fluid: incompressible solid elastic, viscoelastic, and fluid‐like elastic using an equation of state model. Three impact cases are simulated, which indicate that the blunt impacts give rise not only to a fast pressure wave but also to a slow, and potentially much more damaging, shear (distortional) wave that converges spherically towards the brain center. The wave amplification due to spherical geometry is balanced by damping due to tissues' viscoelasticity and the heterogeneous brain structure, suggesting a stochastic competition of these 2 opposite effects. It is observed that this convergent shear wave is dependent on the constitutive property of the cerebrospinal fluid, whereas the peak pressure is not as significantly affected.
Supramolecular Assembly of 1D Pristine Carbon Nanotubes and 2D Graphene Oxides into Macroscopic All‐Carbon Hybrid Sponges for High‐Energy‐Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Wan Kening , Liu Siliang , Zhang Chao , Li Le , Zhao Zhe , Liu Tianxi , Xie Yi
Published: March 2017

The rational design and targeted synthesis of macroscopic and ultralight all‐carbon sponges with satisfying electron/proton conductivity through a simple and environmentally friendly approach is challenging. Herein, three‐dimensional carbon nanotube‐graphene oxide (CNT‐GO) hybrid hydrogels have been constructed by the gelation of an aqueous dispersion of graphene oxide (GO) induced by pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs) without any additives or other crosslinkers. Upon reduction of CNT‐GO hydrogels and removal of water by freeze‐drying, the resulting carbon nanotube‐graphene (CNT‐G) aerogels exhibit a unique all‐carbon continuous framework with a hierarchical porosity that allows high‐rate transport of electrolyte ions and electrons throughout the electrode matrix. As a result, they show high specific energy (31.3 Wh kg−1), high specific capacitance with excellent rate performance (≈71 % retention at 10 A g−1) and cycling stability (≈100 % retention at 10 A g−1 for 5000 cycles) in two electrode systems, and thus great potential as promising electrode materials for next‐generation supercapacitors.
Solid Confinement of Quantum Dots in ZIF‐8 for Efficient and Stable Color‐Conversion White LEDs
Authors: Ying Wen , Mao Yiyin , Wang Xiaobing , Guo Yi , He Haiping , Ye Zhizhen , Lee Shuit‐Tong , Peng Xinsheng
Published: March 2017

The powder form and low photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of fluorescent metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) present a serious obstacle to fabricating high‐efficiency film‐like lighting devices. Here, we present a facile way to produce thin films of CdSexS1−x/ZnS quantum dots (QDs)@ZIF‐8 with high PLQY by encapsulating red, green, and blue CdSexS1−x/ZnS QDs in ZIF‐8 through a one‐pot solid‐confinement conversion process. The QDs@ZIF‐8 thin film emits warm white light with good color quality and presents good thermal stability and long‐term durability.
Three‐dimensional intracellular transport in neuron bodies and neurites investigated by label‐free dispersion‐relation phase spectroscopy
Authors: Kandel Mikhail E. , Fernandes Daniel , Taylor Alison M. , Shakir Haadi , Best‐Popescu Catherine , Popescu Gabriel
Published: March 2017

Due to the limitations of fluorescence imaging techniques, the study of intracellular cargo is typically restricted to two‐dimensional analyses. To overcome low light levels and the risk of phototoxicity, we employ quantitative phase imaging, a family of full‐field imaging techniques that measure the optical path length shift introduced by the specimen. Specifically, we use spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to study the transport of mass in whole tomographic volumes and show that a time‐correlation technique, dispersion‐relation phase spectroscopy (DPS), can be used to simultaneously assay the horizontal and vertical traffic of mass through a cell. To validate our method, we compare the traffic inside cell bodies and neuronal extensions, showing that the vertical transport of mass may prove a more sensitive and interesting metric than similar measurements limited to a 2D, horizontal plane. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Mild perinatal adversities moderate the association between maternal harsh parenting and hair cortisol: Evidence for differential susceptibility
Authors: Windhorst Dafna A. , Rippe Ralph C.A. , Mileva‐Seitz Viara R. , Verhulst Frank C. , Jaddoe Vincent W.V. , Noppe Gerard , van Rossum Elisabeth F.C. , van den Akker Erica L.T. , Tiemeier Henning , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J.
Published: March 2017

It has been shown that following exposure to mild perinatal adversity, children have greater susceptibility to both the negative and positive aspects of their subsequent environment. In a large population‐based cohort study (N = 1,776), we investigated whether mild perinatal adversity moderated the association between maternal harsh parenting and children's hair cortisol levels, a biomarker of chronic stress. Mild perinatal adversity was defined as late preterm birth (gestational age at birth of 34–37 weeks, 6 days) or small for gestational age (birth weight between the 2.5th and 10th percentile for full term gestational age). Harsh parenting was assessed by maternal self‐report at 3 years. Children's hair cortisol concentrations were measured from hair samples collected at age 6. There were no significant bivariate associations between mild perinatal adversities and harsh parenting and hair cortisol. However, mild perinatal adversities moderated the association between maternal harsh parenting and hair cortisol levels. Children with mild perinatal adversity had lower cortisol levels if parented more harshly and higher cortisol levels in the absence of harsh parenting than children who did not experience mild perinatal adversity. These results provide further evidence that mild perinatal adversity is a potential marker of differential susceptibility to environmental influences.
Preschoolers’ genetic, physiological, and behavioral sensitivity factors moderate links between parenting stress and child internalizing, externalizing, and sleep problems
Authors: Davis Molly , Thomassin Kristel , Bilms Joanie , Suveg Cynthia , Shaffer Anne , Beach Steven R.H.
Published: March 2017

This study examined three potential moderators of the relations between maternal parenting stress and preschoolers’ adjustment problems: a genetic polymorphism—the short allele of the serotonin transporter (5‐HTTLPR, ss/sl allele) gene, a physiological indicator—children's baseline respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), and a behavioral indicator—mothers’ reports of children's negative emotionality. A total of 108 mothers (Mage = 30.68 years, SDage = 6.06) reported on their parenting stress as well as their preschoolers’ (Mage = 3.50 years, SDage = 0.51, 61% boys) negative emotionality and internalizing, externalizing, and sleep problems. Results indicated that the genetic sensitivity variable functioned according to a differential susceptibility model; however, the results involving physiological and behavioral sensitivity factors were most consistent with a diathesis‐stress framework. Implications for prevention and intervention efforts to counter the effects of parenting stress are discussed.
Conductive sapwood area prediction from stem and canopy areas—allometric equations of Kalahari trees, Botswana
Authors: Lubczynski Maciek W. , Chavarro‐Rincon Diana C. , Rossiter David G.
Published: March 2017

Conductive sapwood (xylem) area (Ax) of all trees in a given forested area is the main factor contributing to spatial tree transpiration. One hundred ninety‐five trees of 9 species in the Kalahari region of Botswana were felled, stained, cut into discs, and measured to develop allometric equations predicting Ax from estimates of stem (As) and canopy (Ac) areas. Stem discs were also subjected to laboratory‐based computed tomography, which well detected wood density contrasts but was not diagnostic with regard to delineation of Ax. The staining experiment, along with the help of visual and computed tomography analysis, allowed the definition of 4, tree‐species categories of Ax, C1–C4. In C1 (Acacia erioloba, Terminalia sericea, and Burke Africana), the staining and visual delineation of Ax matched the natural color difference between sapwood and heartwood; in C2 (Dichrostachys cinerea and Ochna pulchra), sapwood was divided into external conductive and internal nonconductive annuli; in C3 (Acacia fleckii and Acacia luederitzii), sapwood had sharp staining boundary between external highly conductive and internal low‐conductive annuli; and in C4 (Lonchocarpus nelsii and Boscia albitrunca), stems had no heartwood. Per‐species 0‐intercept linear regression models, Ax = slope.As (slope = 0.392 ÷ 0.794; R2 = 96.7 ÷ 99.8%) and Ax = slope.Ac (slope = 1.477 ÷ 17.044; R2 = 82.1 ÷ 92.2%) yielded excellent to good predictive allometric equations. The first equation is suitable for Ax scaling of small‐size Kalahari areas, where the As of all trees can be estimated on the ground, whereas the second, as contribution to automated tree transpiration mapping of large‐size Kalahari areas, where the Ac of trees can be derived through remote sensing interpretation of high‐resolution images.
Redox Control in Olefin Polymerization Catalysis by Phosphine–Sulfonate Palladium and Nickel Complexes
Authors: Yang Bangpei , Pang Wenmin , Chen Min
Published: March 2017

Two phosphine–sulfonate ligands, bearing both the ferrocene and the bi‐aryl units, were prepared and characterized. The corresponding palladium and nickel complexes are active in ethylene polymerization. In both the palladium and the nickel systems, the oxidation of the ferrocene unit leads to a decrease in catalytic activities and the polymer molecular masses. Interestingly, the neutral palladium catalyst is not active for norbornene polymerization, while the oxidized analogue shows good activity. As such, switchable polymerization could be achieved.
Dioxygenation of Flavonol Catalyzed by Copper(II) Complexes Supported by Carboxylate‐Containing Ligands: Structural and Functional Models of Quercetin 2,4‐Dioxygenase
Authors: Sun Ying‐Ji , Li Pei , Huang Qian‐Qian , Zhang Jian‐Jun , Itoh Shinobu
Published: March 2017

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Ying‐Ji Sun from Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China, in collaboration with the group of Shinobu Itoh from Osaka University, Osaka, Japan. The cover image shows a model reaction of quercetin 2,4‐dioxygenase (2,4‐QD) – dioxygenation of flavonol catalyzed by copper(II) complexes supported by carboxylate‐containing ligands.
An Articulate Oxidative Transition‐Metal‐Free Homocoupling of Imidazo Heterocycles through C(sp2)–C(sp2) Bond Formation
Authors: Shakoor S. M. Abdul , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sakhuja Rajeev
Published: March 2017

Direct oxidative homocoupling of 2‐arylimidazo heterocycles was achieved by using a phenyliodine diacetate‐mediated BF3·OEt2‐accelerated protocol at room temperature. A series of biimidazo heterocycles were synthesized under ambient conditions without prior activation of the C(sp2)–H bond. The desired biimidazo heterocycles were also obtained by using catalytic amounts of iodobenzene and m‐CPBA/AcOH in an organocatalytic fashion.
Computational and Experimental Observation of Li‐Ion Concentration Distribution and Diffusion‐Induced Stress in Porous Battery Electrodes
Authors: Ji Liang , Guo Zhansheng , Wu Yajun
Published: March 2017

A multiscale model of porous electrodes based on the Gibbs free energy is developed, in which the Li ion diffusion, diffusion‐induced stress (DIS), and polydispersities of electrode particle sizes are considered. The relationships between the size polydispersities and the concentration profiles and DIS evolution are investigated numerically. Li ion distributions are verified by in situ observation of color changes in a commercial porous graphite electrode. Simulations show small particles exhibit higher charge/discharge degrees and more rapid charge/discharge rates than large particles at the same macroscopic state of charge (SOC)/depth of discharge (DOD). Moreover, DIS is different in different size particles at a specific SOC and DOD, that is, there is a nonuniformly distributed stress field within porous electrodes during the charge/discharge processes. For SOC and DOD, which represent the macroscopic average states of charge and discharge, the influence of the microscopic SOC values and mass fractions of differently sized particles in porous electrodes should, therefore, be considered. Additionally, the fracture of particles in porous electrodes is likely caused by varied amplitude tensile‐compressive DISs during charge/discharge cycles. Reduced sizes and size polydispersities of electrode particles are prone to alleviate these stresses and thus improve battery performance.
Effect of ground motion selection methods on seismic collapse fragility of RC frame buildings
Authors: Koopaee Mohammad E. , Dhakal Rajesh P. , MacRae Gregory
Published: March 2017

Variation in the seismic collapse fragility of reinforced concrete frame buildings predicted using different ground motion (GM) selection methods is investigated in this paper. To simulate the structural collapse, a fiber‐element modelling approach with path‐dependent cyclic nonlinear material models that account for concrete confinement and crushing, reinforcement buckling as well as low cycle fatigue is used. The adopted fiber analysis approach has been found to reliably predict the loss in vertical load carrying capacity of structural components in addition to the sidesway mode of collapse due to destabilizing P–Δ moments at large inelastic deflections. Multiple stripe analysis is performed by conducting response history analyses at various hazard levels to generate the collapse fragility curves. To select GMs at various hazard levels, two alternatives of uniform hazard spectrum (UHS), conditional mean spectrum (CMS) and generalized conditional intensity measure (GCIM) are used. Collapse analyses are repeated based on structural periods corresponding to initial un‐cracked stiffness and cracked stiffness of the frame members. A return period‐based intensity measure is then introduced and applied in estimating collapse fragility of frame buildings. In line with the results of previous research, it is shown that the choice of structural period significantly affects the collapse fragility predictions. Among the GM selection methods used in this study, GCIM and CMS methods predict similar collapse fragilities for the case study building investigated herein, and UHS provides the most conservative prediction of the collapse capacity, with approximately 40% smaller median collapse capacity compared to the CMS method. The results confirm that collapse probability prediction of buildings using UHS offers a higher level of conservatism in comparison to the other selection methods. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conflict in invasive species management
Authors: Crowley Sarah L , Hinchliffe Steve , McDonald Robbie A
Published: March 2017

As invasive species management becomes more ambitious in scope and scale, projects are increasingly challenged by disputes and conflicts among people, which can produce undesirable environmental and social outcomes. Here, we examine when and how conflicts have arisen from invasive species management, and consider why some management approaches may be more prone to conflict than others. Insufficient appreciation of sociopolitical context, non‐existent or perfunctory public and community engagement, and unidirectional communications can all foster “destructive” conflict. We propose that approaches to conflict in invasive species management might be transformed by anticipating disagreements, attending more carefully to the social‐ecological contexts of management, adopting more inclusive engagement mechanisms, and fostering more open, responsive communication. Conflicts may be unavoidable, but they can be anticipated and need not be destructive.
Freshwater flux from ice sheet melting and iceberg calving in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Hammond Mark D. , Jones Daniel C.
Published: March 2017

This dataset is a multiyear mean Southern Ocean freshwater flux field that uses recently compiled measurements of ice sheet melting, iceberg calving, iceberg tracking, and river runoff. It has a horizontal resolution of 1/6° and uses BEDMAP2 for identifying and placing individual ice sheets. The aim of this work is to improve the representation of Antarctic freshwater input in Southern Ocean models.
Regression of hepatocellular adenomas and systemic inflammatory syndrome after cessation of estrogen therapy
Authors: Sinclair Marie , Schelleman Anthony , Sandhu Daljean , Angus Peter W.
Published: March 2017

We report a case of dramatic systemic inflammatory symptoms and biochemical signs of inflammation related to multiple hepatic adenomas that completely resolved after cessation of the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) and associated adenoma regression. This represents a case of dramatic symptoms that resolved after estrogen withdrawal alone. (Hepatology 2017;66:989–991).
Hepatic IFIT3 predicts interferon‐α therapeutic response in patients of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yingyun , Zhou Ye , Hou Jin , Bai Chunmei , Li Zhenyang , Fan Jia , Ng Irene O.L. , Zhou Weiping , Sun Huichuan , Dong Qiongzhu , Lee Joyce M.F. , Lo Chung‐Mau , Man Kwan , Yang Yun , Li Nan , Ding Guoshan , Yu Yizhi , Cao Xuetao
Published: March 2017

Adjuvant interferon‐α (IFN‐α) therapy is used to control certain types of cancer in clinics. For hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), IFN‐α therapy is effective in only a subgroup of patients; therefore, identifying biomarkers to predict the response to IFN‐α therapy is of high significance and clinical utility. As the induced IFN‐stimulated gene expression following IFN‐α treatment plays pivotal roles in IFN‐α effects, we screened IFN‐stimulated gene expression in HCC tissues and found that several IFN‐stimulated genes were significantly decreased in HCC. Interestingly, expression of IFN‐induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats (IFIT) family members, including IFIT1, IFIT2, IFIT3, and IFIT5, was decreased in HCC tissues. We further analyzed the expression of IFIT family members in HCC and their roles in patients' responses to IFN‐α therapy in two independent randomized controlled IFN‐α therapy clinical trials of HCC patients. We found that higher expression of IFIT3, but not other IFITs, in HCC tissues predicts better response to IFN‐α therapy, suggesting that IFIT3 may be a useful predictor of the response to IFN‐α therapy in HCC patients. Mechanistically, IFIT3 enhanced the antitumor effects of IFN‐α by promoting IFN‐α effector responses both in vitro and in vivo. IFIT3 could bind signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and STAT2 to enhance STAT1–STAT2 heterodimerization and nuclear translocation upon IFN‐α treatment, thus promoting IFN‐α effector signaling. Conclusion: Higher IFIT3 expression in HCC tissues predicts better response to IFN‐α therapy in HCC patients; IFIT3 promotes IFN‐α effector responses and therapeutic effects by strengthening IFN‐α effector signaling in HCC. (Hepatology 2017;66:152–166).
Separation and characterization of maternal cardiac and vascular sounds in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Riknagel Diana , Zimmermann Henrik , Farlie Richard , Hammershøi Dorte , Schmidt Samuel E. , Hedegaard Morten , Humaidan Peter , Struijk Johannes J.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To characterize the vascular sounds of the uteroplacental blood flow obtained by microphones.

Methods

The present retrospective study took place in an anechoic chamber facility at Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark, in 2012, and included pregnant participants aged 18–40 years with a singleton pregnancy at 32–36 weeks and a parity of 0–2. Abdominal Doppler ultrasonography was performed bilaterally on the uterine arteries. Subsequently, in the same positions, sound recordings were performed with microphones. The derived raw sound signal was separated into two frequency ranges, and characterized accordingly.

Results

The mean pregnancy length among 25 participants was 33.6 ± 2.0 weeks. The pulsatility index of the uterine artery was 0.67 ± 0.24. All 50 recordings displayed the first and second maternal heart sounds (frequency 25–100 Hz), and in 17 of 50 recordings, maternal vascular murmurs (frequency 200–800 Hz) were present. The average pulse wave velocity between the maternal aortic valve and the uterine artery was estimated to be 6.6 ± 1.5 m/s.

Conclusion

Maternal vascular murmurs in the frequency range of 200–800 Hz were identified as a possible marker of abnormal uteroplacental blood flow, and provide a means to measure the arterial pulse wave velocity.
Mitochondrial ROS‐induced ERK1/2 activation and HSF2‐mediated AT1R upregulation are required for doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity
Authors: Huang Chih‐Yang , Chen Jia‐Yi , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Pai Pei‐Ying , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Chen Tung‐Sheng , Tsai Fu‐Jen , Padma Vijaya V. , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: March 2017

Doxorubicin (DOX), one useful chemotherapeutic agent, is limited in clinical use because of its serious cardiotoxicity. Growing evidence suggests that angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) have cardioprotective effects in DOX‐induced cardiomyopathy. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying the action of ARBs on the prevention of DOX‐induced cardiomyocyte cell death have yet to be investigated. Our results showed that angiotensin II receptor type I (AT1R) plays a critical role in DOX‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. We found that MAPK signaling pathways, especially ERK1/2, participated in modulating AT1R gene expression through DOX‐induced mitochondrial ROS release. These results showed that several potential heat shock binding elements (HSE), which can be recognized by heat shock factors (HSFs), located at the AT1R promoter region. HSF2 markedly translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus when cardiomyocytes were damaged by DOX. Furthermore, the DNA binding activity of HSF2 was enhanced by DOX via deSUMOylation. Overexpression of HSF2 enhanced DOX‐induced cardiomyocyte cell death as well. Taken together, we found that DOX induced mitochondrial ROS release to activate ERK‐mediated HSF2 nuclear translocation and AT1R upregulation causing DOX‐damaged heart failure in vitro and in vivo.
Pannexin hemichannels: A novel promising therapy target for oxidative stress related diseases
Authors: Xu Jin , Chen Linxi , Li Lanfang
Published: March 2017

Pannexins, which contain three subtypes: pannexin‐1, ‐2, and ‐3, are vertebrate glycoproteins that form non‐junctional plasma membrane intracellular hemichannels via oligomerization. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance of the generation and elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Studies have shown that elevated ROS levels are pivotal in the development of a variety of diseases. Recent studies indicate that the occurrence of these oxidative stress related diseases is associated with pannexin hemichannels. It is also reported that pannexins regulate the production of ROS which in turn may increase the opening of pannexin hemichannels. In this paper, we review recent researches about the important role of pannexin hemichannels in oxidative stress related diseases. Thus, pannexin hemichannels, novel therapeutic targets, hold promise in managing oxidative stress related diseases such as the tumor, inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance (IR), and neural degeneration diseases.
Treatment of reverse osmosis (RO) concentrate from an old landfill site by Fe0/PS/O3 process
Authors: Ji Fangzhou , Zhang Heng , Li Jun , Lai Bo
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Large volume of landfill leachate concentrate was generated from membrane treatment process, which contained large amount of toxic and refractory compounds. However, there is a lack of proper technologies for the treatment of membrane filtration concentrates.

RESULTS

An effective method for treatment of landfill leachate reverse osmosis (RO) concentrate by Fe0/PS/O3 process was investigated to decompose the refractory pollutants and improve the biodegradability. First, the operating conditions including Fe0 dosage, ozone aeration rate, PS (S2O82−) dosage and initial pH were optimized through single‐factor experiment and response surface methodology (RSM) in this study. The results show that the method could obtain high COD (84.1%) and color (99%) removal efficiencies after 30 min treatment under the optimal conditions. Meanwhile, BOD5/COD ratio was enhanced from 0.01 to 0.25, which suggests that its biodegradability was improved greatly. The decomposition or transformation of the organic pollutants in RO concentrate was analyzed by UV–vis, EEM and FTIR. Furthermore, the synergetic effect between Fe0, PS and O3 in Fe0/PS/O3 process was investigated according to the present literature and analysis date of SEM‐EDS, XRD and XPS.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, a new Fe0/PS/O3 system was successful developed, and this system could be seemed as a promising technology for the treatment of reverse osmosis concentrate of landfill leachate. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry