bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of absolute quantification in small‐animal SPECT imaging: Phantom and animal studies
Authors: Gerdekoohi Shabnam Khorasani , Vosoughi Naser , Tanha Kaveh , Assadi Majid , Ghafarian Pardis , Rahmim Arman , Ay Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Presence of photon attenuation severely challenges quantitative accuracy in single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging. Subsequently, various attenuation correction methods have been developed to compensate for this degradation. The present study aims to implement an attenuation correction method and then to evaluate quantification accuracy of attenuation correction in small‐animal SPECT imaging.

Methods

Images were reconstructed using an iterative reconstruction method based on the maximum‐likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) algorithm including resolution recovery. This was implemented in our designed dedicated small‐animal SPECT (HiReSPECT) system. For accurate quantification, the voxel values were converted to activity concentration via a calculated calibration factor. An attenuation correction algorithm was developed based on the first‐order Chang's method. Both phantom study and experimental measurements with four rats were used in order to validate the proposed method.

Results

The phantom experiments showed that the error of −15.5% in the estimation of activity concentration in a uniform region was reduced to +5.1% when attenuation correction was applied. For in vivo studies, the average quantitative error of −22.8 ± 6.3% (ranging from −31.2% to −14.8%) in the uncorrected images was reduced to +3.5 ± 6.7% (ranging from −6.7 to +9.8%) after applying attenuation correction.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the proposed attenuation correction algorithm based on the first‐order Chang's method, as implemented in our dedicated small‐animal SPECT system, significantly improves accuracy of the quantitative analysis as well as the absolute quantification.
Demyelination load as predictor for disease progression in juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Strölin Manuel , Krägeloh‐Mann Ingeborg , Kehrer Christiane , Wilke Marko , Groeschel Samuel
Published: May 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the extent and topography of cerebral demyelination correlates with and predicts disease progression in patients with juvenile metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD).

Methods

A total of 137 MRIs of 46 patients with juvenile MLD were analyzed. Demyelination load and brain volume were quantified using the previously developed Software “clusterize.” Clinical data were collected within the German Leukodystrophy Network and included full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and gross motor function data. Voxel‐based lesion‐symptom mapping (VLSM) across the whole brain was performed to investigate the spatial relationship of cerebral demyelination with motor or cognitive function. The prognostic value of the demyelination load at disease onset was assessed to determine the severity of disease progression.

Results

The demyelination load (corrected by the individual brain volume) correlated significantly with gross motor function (r = +0.55) and FSIQ (r = −0.55). Demyelination load at disease onset was associated with the severity of disease progression later on (P < 0.01). VLSM results associated frontal lobe demyelination with loss in FSIQ and more central region demyelination with decline of motor function. Especially progression of demyelination within the motor area was associated with severe disease progression.

Interpretation

We were able to show for the first time in a large cohort of patients with juvenile MLD that the demyelination load correlates with motor and cognitive symptoms. Moreover, demyelination load at disease onset, especially the involvement of the central region, predicts severity of disease progression. Thus, demyelination load seems a functionally relevant MRI parameter.
Detection of Avian Influenza Virus from Cloacal Swabs Using a Disposable Well Gate FET Sensor
Authors: Park Sungwook , Choi Jaebin , Jeun Minhong , Kim Yongdeok , Yuk Seong‐Su , Kim Sang Kyung , Song Chang‐Seon , Lee Seok , Lee Kwan Hyi
Published: May 2017

Current methods to detect avian influenza viruses (AIV) are time consuming and lo inw sensitivity, necessitating a faster and more sensitive sensor for on‐site epidemic detection in poultry farms and urban population centers. This study reports a field effect transistor (FET) based AIV sensor that detects nucleoproteins (NP) within 30 minutes, down to an LOD of 103 EID50 mL−1 from a live animal cloacal swab. Previously reported FET sensors for AIV detection have not targeted NPs, an internal protein shared across multiple strains, due to the difficulty of field‐effect sensing in a highly ionic lysis buffer. The AIV sensor overcomes the sensitivity limit with an FET‐based platform enhanced with a disposable well gate (DWG) that is readily replaceable after each measurement. In a single procedure, the virus‐containing sample is immersed in a lysis buffer mixture to expose NPs to the DWG surface. In comparison with commercial AIV rapid kits, the AIV sensor is proved to be highly sensitive, fast, and compact, proving its potential effectiveness as a portable biosensor.
Palladium(I) Dimer Enabled Extremely Rapid and Chemoselective Alkylation of Aryl Bromides over Triflates and Chlorides in Air
Authors: Kalvet Indrek , Sperger Theresa , Scattolin Thomas , Magnin Guillaume , Schoenebeck Franziska
Published: May 2017

Disclosed herein is the first general chemo‐ and site‐selective alkylation of C−Br bonds in the presence of COTf, C−Cl and other potentially reactive functional groups, using the air‐, moisture‐, and thermally stable dinuclear PdI catalyst, [Pd(μ‐I)PtBu3]2. The bromo‐selectivity is independent of the substrate and the relative positioning of the competing reaction sites, and as such fully predictable. Primary and secondary alkyl chains were introduced with extremely high speed (<5 min reaction time) at room temperature and under open‐flask reaction conditions.
A Binary Bivalent Supramolecular Assembly Platform Based on Cucurbit[8]uril and Dimeric Adapter Protein 14‐3‐3
Authors: de Vink Pim J. , Briels Jeroen M. , Schrader Thomas , Milroy Lech‐Gustav , Brunsveld Luc , Ottmann Christian
Published: May 2017

Interactions between proteins frequently involve recognition sequences based on multivalent binding events. Dimeric 14‐3‐3 adapter proteins are a prominent example and typically bind partner proteins in a phosphorylation‐dependent mono‐ or bivalent manner. Herein we describe the development of a cucurbit[8]uril (Q8)‐based supramolecular system, which in conjunction with the 14‐3‐3 protein dimer acts as a binary and bivalent protein assembly platform. We fused the phenylalanine–glycine–glycine (FGG) tripeptide motif to the N‐terminus of the 14‐3‐3‐binding epitope of the estrogen receptor α (ERα) for selective binding to Q8. Q8‐induced dimerization of the ERα epitope augmented its affinity towards 14‐3‐3 through a binary bivalent binding mode. The crystal structure of the Q8‐induced ternary complex revealed molecular insight into the multiple supramolecular interactions between the protein, the peptide, and Q8.
Total Synthesis of Homodimericin A
Authors: Feng Juan , Lei Xiaoqiang , Guo Zhen , Tang Yefeng
Published: May 2017

We report the concise total synthesis of homodimericin A (1), a recently identified fungal metabolite bearing an unprecedented molecular architecture. The success of the approach hinges on a series of rationally designed and bioinspired transformations, including a Moore rearrangement to assemble the monomeric hydroquinone precursor, homodimerization through double Michael addition to construct the planar A/B/C tricyclic framework, and a tandem Diels–Alder reaction/carbonyl–ene cyclization to forge the congested D/E/F tricyclic cage motif. Unequivocal evidence for the elucidated structure of homodimericin A was also provided by this study.
An Enyne Cope Rearrangement Enables Polycycloalkane Synthesis from Readily Available Starting Materials
Authors: Scott Sarah K. , Grenning Alexander J.
Published: May 2017

Cyclohexanone‐derived Knoevenagel adducts (cyclohexylidenemalononitriles) and two different propargyl electrophiles serve as carbon sources for assembling diverse 6/7/5 tricycloalkanes, a common terpenoid framework. The sequence involves three unique reactions: 1) deconjugative propargylation, 2) one‐pot enyne Cope rearrangement/deconjugative propargylation, and 3) an allenic Pauson–Khand reaction.
Real‐Time Analysis of Folding upon Binding of a Disordered Protein by Using Dissolution DNP NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ragavan Mukundan , Iconaru Luigi I. , Park Cheon‐Gil , Kriwacki Richard W. , Hilty Christian
Published: May 2017

The kinase inhibitory domain of the cell cycle regulatory protein p27Kip1 (p27) was nuclear spin hyperpolarized using dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (D‐DNP). While intrinsically disordered in isolation, p27 adopts secondary structural motifs, including an α‐helical structure, upon binding to cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 (Cdk2)/cyclin A. The sensitivity gains obtained with hyperpolarization enable the real‐time observation of 13C NMR signals during p27 folding upon binding to Cdk2/cyclin A on a time scale of several seconds. Time‐dependent intensity changes are dependent on the extent of folding and binding, as manifested in differential spin relaxation. The analysis of signal decay rates suggests the existence of a partially folded p27 intermediate during the timescale of the D‐DNP NMR experiment.
Brief Report: Group 3 Innate Lymphoid Cells in Human Enthesis
Authors: Cuthbert Richard J. , Fragkakis Evangelos M. , Dunsmuir Robert , Li Zhi , Coles Mark , Marzo‐Ortega Helena , Giannoudis Peter V. , Jones Elena , El‐Sherbiny Yasser M. , McGonagle Dennis
Published: May 2017

Objective

Group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) play a pivotal role in barrier tissues such as the gut and the skin, two important sites of disease in spondyloarthritis (SpA). This study was undertaken to investigate whether normal or injured human enthesis, a key target tissue in early SpA, harbors ILC3s in entheseal soft tissue and adjacent perientheseal bone.

Methods

Interspinous ligament and spinous process bone from donors with no systemic inflammatory disease were collected, enzymatically digested, and immunophenotyped. The immunologic profile of entheseal cells was examined, and the transcriptional profile of sorted ILC3s was compared to that of ILC3s isolated from SpA synovial fluid (SF). To assess the ability of entheseal tissue to produce interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) and IL‐22, entheseal digests were stimulated with IL‐23 and IL‐1β. Osteoarthritic and ruptured Achilles tendon tissue was examined histologically.

Results

The proportion of ILCs in human entheseal soft tissue was higher than that in peripheral blood (P = 0.008); entheseal soft tissue and perientheseal bone both had a higher proportion of NKp44+ ILC3s (P = 0.001 and P = 0.043, respectively). Studies of retinoic acid receptor–related orphan nuclear receptor γt (RORγt), STAT3, and IL‐23 receptor transcript expression validated the entheseal ILC3 phenotype. Cytokine transcript expression was similar in ILC3s isolated from enthesis and from SpA SF. Stimulation of normal entheseal digests with IL‐23/IL‐1β led to up‐regulation of IL‐17A transcript, and histologic examination of injured/damaged entheses revealed the presence of RORγt‐expressing cells.

Conclusion

This work shows that human enthesis harbors a resident population of ILC3s, with the potential to participate in the pathogenesis of SpA.
A neural differential evolution identification approach to nonlinear systems and modelling of shape memory alloy actuator
Authors: Nguyen Son Ngoc , Ho‐Huu Vinh , Ho Anh Pham Huy
Published: May 2017

This paper proposes a hybrid modified differential evolution plus back‐propagation (MDE‐BP) algorithm to optimize the weights of the neural network model. In implementing the proposed training algorithm, the mutation phase of the differential evolution (DE) is modified by combining two mutation strategies rand/1 and best/1 to create trial vectors instead of only using one mutation operator or rand/1 or best/1 as the standard DE. The modification aims to balance the global exploration and local exploitation capacities of the algorithm in order to find potential global optimum solutions. Then the local searching ability of the back‐propagation (BP) algorithm is applied in that region so as to swiftly converge to the optimum solution. The performance and efficiency of the proposed method is tested by identifying some benchmark nonlinear systems and modeling the shape memory alloy actuator. The proposed training algorithm is compared with the other algorithms, such as the traditional DE and BP algorithm. As a result, the proposed method can improve the accuracy of the identification process.
Numerische Untersuchung zur Rauchgasströmung in energieeffizienten Gebäuden mit kontrollierter Wohnraumlüftung
Authors: Schubert Stefanie , Krause Ulrich
Published: May 2017

Der vorliegende Beitrag ist ein Auszug aus einer CFD‐basierten Studie zum Einfluss der Lüftungstechnik auf die Rauchausbreitung und Brandentwicklung in einem energieeffizienten Gebäude. Es wurde ein Brand im Hauswirtschaftsraum eines Einfamilienhauses simuliert. Die Brandsimulationen wurden mit dem Programm Ansys CFX Version 14.5 berechnet. Das Programm wurde durch das Fractional‐Effective‐Dose‐Modell (FED) zur Beurteilung der Personensicherheit und ein Modell zur Brandausbreitung ergänzt. Die Luftzufuhr in dem Gebäude erfolgt über ein kombiniertes Zu‐ und Abluftsystem. Es wird der Druckgradient gezeigt, der sich zwischen dem Brandraum und dem angrenzenden Raum einstellt. Der zeitliche Verlauf von Gaskonzentrationen und Temperaturen im Brandraum wird vorgestellt. Mithilfe des FED‐Modells werden Aussagen zur Personensicherheit und Fluchtfähigkeit getroffen. Die Ausbreitung des Brandrauchs wird anhand eines Volumenrenderings gezeigt.
“Three Hits” Hypothesis for Developmental Origins of Health and Diseases in View of Cardiovascular Abnormalities
Authors: Li Xiang , Zhang Mengshu , Pan Xinghua , Xu Zhice , Sun Miao
Published: May 2017

“Fetal Origins of Adult Diseases” (FOAD) or “Barker hypothesis,” also known as the developmental origins of health and diseases (DoHaD), was initially proposed by David Barker in the 1980s. Progress in past 2 to 3 decades demonstrated that many adult disorders, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and others, could be linked to poor development resulting from in utero insults. Utero‐environments play a critical role in fetal development. Because the placenta and umbilical cord are the only important connections between the fetus and mother in the uterus, this review pays special attention to recent research and progress in the study of the relationship between those tissues and FOAD. We discuss the conception and possible underlying mechanisms of FOAD, and focus on cardiovascular diseases and epigenetic mechanisms. This review also summarizes physiology, pathology, and the important roles of fetoplacental vasculature, which might contribute to FOAD as initiators. We proposed the “Three hits” hypothesis that highlights the importance of intrauterine and early postnatal factors as contributors to FOAD, which could be significant for early prevention and treatments of FOAD. Birth Defects Research 109:744–757, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of curcumin in ovalbumin‐sensitized rat
Authors: Shakeri Farzaneh , Boskabady Mohammad Hossein
Published: May 2017

Background: Anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin have been shown. In this study, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of curcumin in sensitized rat were evaluated. Methods: Six groups of rats including control (C), ovalbumin‐sensitized (as a rat model of asthma, S), S groups treated with curcumin (Cu 0.15, 0.30, and 0.60 mg/mL), and 1.25 μg/mL dexamethasone (S + D) were studied. Curcumin and dexamethasone were given in animals' drinking water during sensitization period. Total and differential WBC count, PLA2, TP, IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IgE, oxidant, and antioxidant biomarker levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were examined. Results: Total WBC, neutrophil and eosinophil counts, levels of PLA2, TP, IgE, IL‐4, NO2, NO3, and MDA in BALF were increased but lymphocyte percentage, SOD, CAT, thiol, and IFN‐γ levels and IFN‐γ/IL‐4 ratio decreased in S animals compared to controls (P < 0.001 for all cases). Treatment with all concentrations of curcumin significantly improved total WBC, PLA2, TP, IgE, IL‐4, IFN‐γ, IFN‐γ/IL‐4 ratio, SOD, thiol, NO2, and NO3 compared to S group (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). Two higher concentrations of curcumin significantly decreased neutrophil and eosinophil counts and MDA level but increased IFN‐γ, CAT and lymphocyte values compared to S group (P < 0.001 for all cases). Dexamethasone treatment also significantly improved most of the measured parameters (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001) but it did not change IL‐4 and IFN‐γ levels and IFN‐γ/IL‐4 ratio. Conclusion: Anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of curcumin with more specific immunomodulatory effect on Th1/Th2 balance compared to dexamethasone in sensitized rats was shown. © 2017 BioFactors, 43(4):567–576, 2017
Analysis of the relationship between the double transverse foramen and the possibility of developing clinical symptoms after whiplash
Authors: Sanchis‐Gimeno Juan A. , Perez‐Bermejo Marcelino , Rios Luis , Llido Susanna , Bastir Markus , Blanco‐Perez Esther , Mata‐Escolano Federico
Published: May 2017

Currently, there is no information about the possibility of developing clinical symptoms after whiplash in double transverse foramen subjects. Our aim was to test whether subjects with double transverse foramen have an increased risk of presenting with an acute headache, dizziness, vertebral artery dissection, and vomiting after whiplash.We recorded the absence/presence of double transverse foramen, and the absence/presence of neck pain, acute headache, dizziness, vertebral artery dissection, and vomiting in 85 patients who had suffered whiplash injuries in car rear‐end impacts in road traffic accidents. We used the odds ratio test to determine whether double transverse foramen subjects are at a higher risk of developing an acute headache, dizziness, and vomiting than non‐double transverse foramen subjects.Although double transverse foramen subjects presented with more clinical symptoms after whiplash, the odds ratio test revealed that their risks of developing acute headache (P = 0.30), dizziness (P = 0.09), or vomiting (P = 0.18) were not significantly greater than in the control group.Double transverse foramen subjects are not at a higher risk of presenting acute headache, dizziness, vertebral artery dissection, and vomiting after whiplash. Clin. Anat. 30:761–766, 2017. © 2017Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anatomy‐based DMEK Wetlab in Homburg/Saar: Novel aspects of donor preparation and host maneuvers to teach descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Seitz B. , DAAS L. , Bischoff‐Jung M. , Szentmáry N. , Suffo S. , El‐Husseiny M. , Viestenz A. , Milioti G.
Published: May 2017

Use of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) has been limited because of problems with donor preparation, i.e. tearing of the Descemet membrane and difficulties in unfolding the Endothelium‐Descemet‐Membrane‐Layer (EDML) in the anterior chamber (AC). The purpose of this work was to describe a novel approach to teaching anatomy‐based donor and recipient preparation in a DMEK‐Wetlab. We teach successful mono‐manual donor preparation of human corneas in organ culture not suitable for transplantation, including peripheral markers for orientation. We also teach safe recipient preparation in a freshly‐enucleated pig eye in organ culture preservation medium for atraumatic introduction of the EDML roll into the AC, reliable orientation of the EDML during surgery, and stepwise unfolding within the AC. Twenty‐two candidates in the 1. Homburg Cornea Curriculum HCC 2015 who practiced both preparations using three human donor corneas and three pig eyes assessed the procedure as follows: (1) overall grade of the Wetlab 1.4 (median 1, range 1 to 2 ‐ on a scale from 1 (excellent) to 6 (terrible); (2) most participants and tutors stated that the Wetlab is most effective for colleagues who have some previous experience with corneal microsurgery. Our novel anatomy‐based approach to simulating donor preparation and graft implantation for DMEK seems to meet the expectations and requirements of colleagues with previous experience in corneal microsurgery and will help to reduce the rate of complications for incipient DMEK surgeons in the future. Clin. Anat. 31:16–27, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understand participation rights of student‐athletes with disabilities
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: May 2017

Several years have passed since the Office for Civil Rights issued a “Dear Colleague Letter” discussing the participation rights of student‐athletes with disabilities at the interscholastic level and the corresponding obligations of schools. Although a similar letter hasn't been issued at the intercollegiate level, that DCL, a federal regulation that addresses intercollegiate athletics, and a number of court cases collectively provide a helpful framework and important reminders for how to address these issues in the college sports arena.
Was rowing club given chance to challenge suspension for failure to comply with training, competition requirements?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: May 2017

Pursuant to rules imposed by California State University, Sacramento, only students could participate in the Men's Rowing Club.
Take concrete steps to prevent academic integrity violations involving tutors
Authors: O'Brien Timothy
Published: May 2017

When a part‐time tutor recently posted on social media her offer to sell evidence of academic fraud committed at a particular university, it surely made every athletics director cringe.
Learn how to navigate the challenges of supervising difficult employees
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2017

SAN ANTONIO — Inappropriate. Unprofessional. Toxic. Disrespectful. Irresponsible. You know how quickly a difficult staff member can poison your athletics department, especially if you don't have appropriate training and support.
Cytomegalovirus infection in a splenectomized with β‐thalassemia major: immunocompetent or immunosuppressed?
Authors: Liatsos George D. , Pirounaki Maria , Lazareva Angelina , Kikezou Georgia , Dourakis Spyridon P.
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

We should possibly revise our knowledge about risk assessment of splenectomized individuals with β‐thalassemia major. Besides their known risk of certain bacterial infection, they might be also in a risk of life‐threatening primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and end‐, multi‐organ disease, in the context of their immunosuppression status. Prompt and appropriate treatment initiation can be life saving.
Photocatalytic Activity of Synthetic N‐doped TiO2/Reduced Graphene Oxide Crystalline Composites
Authors: Chen Jianxin , Wang Xinxin , Li Yinhui , Zhang Na , Su Min , Han Jian
Published: May 2017

N‐doped TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (N‐TiO2/RGO) composites were prepared by a hydrothermal method. Characterization and photocatalytic tests showed that the N‐TiO2/RGO composites were more efficient for degrading effluents in comparison with the pure TiO2 powders and the N‐doped TiO2 powders. The photocatalytic performance of the composites was enhanced with the increase of the reduced graphene oxides' content, whose degradation rate constant was higher than that of N‐TiO2 under simulated sunlight irradiation. After five successive cycles, 50 % N‐TiO2/RGO still exhibited high activity, which indicates that the composites are stable under irradiation. An innovative strategy for the exploration of advanced photocatalysts in wastewater treatment is provided.
Process Intensification of n‐Butane Oxidation to Maleic Anhydride in a Millistructured Reactor
Authors: Hofmann Sebastian , Turek Thomas
Published: May 2017

The oxidation of n‐butane to maleic anhydride over an industrial vanadyl pyrophosphate oxide catalyst was investigated experimentally in millistructured reactors with varying slit widths to investigate the process intensification potential of this reaction. Although the smaller reactor behaved isothermally, even in the presence of high n‐butane concentrations, moderate hot spots never exceeding more than 15 K above the salt bath temperature occurred in the larger catalyst channel. After exposure to high n‐butane concentrations, a certain amount of catalyst deactivation was observed, which could be partly restored through reoxidation with pure oxygen. The reactor‐specific maleic anhydride productivities obtained are much larger than those in conventional multitubular reactors.
High‐Performance and Low‐Cost Sodium‐Ion Anode Based on a Facile Black Phosphorus−Carbon Nanocomposite
Authors: Peng Bo , Xu Yaolin , Liu Kai , Wang Xiaoqun , Mulder Fokko M.
Published: May 2017

Black phosphorus (BP) has received increasing research attention as an anode material in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), owing to its high capacity, electronic conductivity, and chemical stability. However, it is still challenging for BP‐based SIB anodes to achieve a high electrochemical performance utilizing cost‐effective materials and synthetic methods. This work presents a sodium‐ion anode based on a BP−carbon nanocomposite synthesized from commercial red phosphorus and low‐cost super P carbon black. Intimate interactions between BP and carbon are present, which helps to maintain the electrical conduction during cycling and, therefore, a high cycling stability is achieved. It exhibits a high capacity retention of 1381 mAh g−1 for sodium‐ion storage after 100 cycles, maintaining 90.5 % of the initial reversible capacity. Such high performance/materials cost ratio may provide direction for future phosphorus‐based anodes in high energy density SIBs.
Photoluminescent Peptide‐Based Nanostructures as FRET Donor for Fluorophore Dye
Authors: Diaferia Carlo , Sibillano Teresa , Giannini Cinzia , Roviello Valentina , Vitagliano Luigi , Morelli Giancarlo , Accardo Antonella
Published: May 2017

A great interest has been recently generated by the discovery that peptide‐based nanostructures (NSs) endowed with cross‐β structure may show interesting photoluminescent (PL) properties. It was shown that NSs formed by PEGylated hexaphenylalanine (PEG8‐F6, PEG=polyethylene glycol) are able to emit at 460 nm when excited at 370 or 410 nm. Here, the possibility to transfer the fluorescence of these PEG8‐F6‐based NSs by foster resonance electron transfer (FRET) phenomenon to a fluorescent dye was explored. To achieve this aim, the 4‐chloro‐7‐nitrobenzofurazan (NBD) dye was encapsulated in these NSs. Structural data in solution and in solid state, obtained by a variety of techniques (circular dichroism, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering), indicated that the organization of the peptide spine of PEG8‐F6 NS, which consists of anti‐parallel β‐sheets separated by a dry interface made of interacting phenylalanine side chains, was maintained upon NBD encapsulation. The spectroscopic characterization of these NSs clearly showed a red‐shift of the emission fluorescence peak both in solution and in solid state. This shift from 460 to 530 nm indicated that a FRET phenomenon from the peptide‐based to the fluorophore‐encapsulated NS occurred. FRET could also be detected in the PEG8‐F6 conjugate, in which the NBD was covalently bound to the amine of the compound. On the basis of these results, it is suggested that the red‐shift of the intrinsic PL of NSs may be exploited in the bio‐imaging field.
Intramolecular Pancake Bonding in Helical Structures
Authors: Takamuku Shota , Nakano Masayoshi , Kertesz Miklos
Published: May 2017

Invited for the cover of this issue is the collaborative group of Miklos Kertesz from Georgetown University, USA, and Masayoshi Nakano from Osaka University, Japan. The image depicts head‐to‐tail covalent‐like through‐space pi–pi bonding between radicaloid terminal groups in pi‐conjugated helical molecules. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201700999.
Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of the Cyclic Depsipeptide Natural Product YM‐254890, Targeting the GqProtein
Authors: Zhang Hang , Xiong Xiao‐Feng , Boesgaard Michael W. , Underwood Christina R. , Bräuner‐Osborne Hans , Strømgaard Kristian
Published: May 2017

Extracellular signals perceived by G protein‐coupled receptors are transmitted via G proteins, and subsequent intracellular signaling cascades result in a plethora of physiological responses. The natural product cyclic depsipeptides YM‐254890 and FR900359 are the only known compounds that specifically inhibit signaling mediated by the Gqsubfamily. In this study we exploit a newly developed synthetic strategy for this compound class in the design, synthesis, and pharmacological evaluation of eight new analogues of YM‐254890. These structure–activity relationship studies led to the discovery of three new analogues, YM‐13, YM‐14, and YM‐18, which displayed potent and selective Gqinhibitory activity. This provides pertinent information for the understanding of the Gqinhibitory mechanism by this class of compounds and importantly provides a pathway for the development of labeled YM‐254890 analogues.
Taming the big to small: efficient selfish task allocation in mobile crowdsourcing systems
Authors: Li Qingyu , Yang Panlong , Fan Xiaochen , Tang Shaojie , Xiang Chaocan , Guo Deke , Li Fan
Published: May 2017

This paper investigates the selfish load balancing problem in mobile distributed crowdsourcing networks. Conventional methods heavily relied on cooperation among users to achieve balanced resource utilization in a platform‐centric view. In achieving fairly low communication and computational overhead, this work leverages the d‐choice method based on Ball and Bin theory for effective balancing under limited information and the Proportional Allocation scheme for selfish load balancing, maintaining good load balancing property among selfish users. Even with limited information, the balancing performance could be improved significantly. Moreover, theoretical analysis has been presented in convergence property. Extensive evaluations have been made to show that Chance‐Choice outperforms several existing algorithms. Typically, comparing with Proportional Allocation scheme, it could decrease the load gap between the maximum and the minimal in system by 50% to 80% and reduce the overhead complexity from O(n) to O(1) comparing with the Max‐weight Best Response algorithm, where n denotes the number of mobile users in a crowdsourcing system. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ca2+‐Cl− Association in Water Revisited: the Role of Cation Hydration
Authors: Salanne Mathieu , Tazi Sami , Vuilleumier Rodolphe , Rotenberg Benjamin
Published: May 2017

We investigate the dissociation of a Ca2+‐Cl− pair in water using classical molecular dynamics simulations with a polarizable interaction potential, parameterized from ab initio calculations. By computing the potential of mean force as a function not only of the interionic distance but also of the coordination numbers by water molecules, we show that it is necessary to use a collective variable describing the cation hydration in order to capture the dissociation mechanism. In the contact ion pair, the Ca2+ cation has a first coordination sphere containing 5 or 6 water molecules. The minimum free‐energy path for dissociation involves a two‐step process: First one or two additional water molecules enter the cation coordination shell, increasing the coordination number up to 7 with an almost fixed interionic distance. Then the dissociation of the ionic pair occurs at this fixed coordination number.
Chlamydia trachomatis Transformation and Allelic Exchange Mutagenesis
Authors: Mueller Konrad E. , Wolf Katerina , Fields Kenneth A.
Published: May 2017

Gene inactivation is essential for forward and reverse genetic approaches to establish protein function. Techniques such as insertion or chemical mutagenesis have been developed to mutagenize chlamydiae via targeted or random mutagenesis, respectively. Both of these approaches require transformation of chlamydiae to either introduce insertion elements or complement mutants. We have recently developed a targeted mutagenesis strategy, fluorescence‐reported allelic exchange mutagenesis (FRAEM), to delete Chlamydia trachomatis L2 genes. This approach overcomes several barriers for genetically manipulating intracellular bacteria. Perhaps most significantly, FRAEM employs fluorescence reporting to indicate successful transformation and subsequent recombination events. Three protocols are provided that detail methods to construct gene‐specific suicide vectors, transform C. trachomatis L2 to select for recombinants, and isolate clonal populations via limiting dilution. In aggregate, these protocols will allow investigators to engineer C. trachomatis L2 strains carrying complete deletions of desired gene(s). © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Drugs for Children
Authors: Ito S
Published: May 2017

The “Therapeutic Orphan” status of children is gradually improving, but our efforts to eliminate off‐label/off‐evidence use must be sustained for safer and more effective pediatric drug therapy. This is even more important in resource‐scarce settings, because of the increasing child population in those regions. The juncture of pediatric pharmacology and global child health represents an emerging field of clinical pharmacology illuminating a crucial societal need on a global scale.
Evaluation of the Safety of Drugs and Biological Products Used During Lactation: Workshop Summary
Authors: Wang J , Johnson T , Sahin L , Tassinari MS , Anderson PO , Baker TE , Bucci‐Rechtweg C , Burckart GJ , Chambers CD , Hale TW , Johnson‐Lyles D , Nelson RM , Nguyen C , Pica‐Branco D , Ren Z , Sachs H , Sauberan J , Zajicek A , Ito S , Yao LP
Published: May 2017

This report serves as a summary of a 2‐day public workshop sponsored by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to discuss the safety of drugs and biological products used during lactation. The aim of the workshop was to provide a forum to discuss the collection of data to inform the potential risks to breastfed infants with maternal use of medications during lactation. Discussions included the review of current approaches to collect data on medications used during lactation, and the considerations for future approaches to design and guide clinical lactation studies. This workshop is part of continuing efforts to raise the awareness of the public for women who choose to breastfeed their infants.
The importance of CD39, CD43, CD81, and CD95 expression for differentiating B cell lymphoma by flow cytometry
Authors: Cardoso Chandra Chiappin , Auat Mariangeles , Santos‐Pirath Iris Mattos , Rudolf‐Oliveira Renata Cristina Messores , da Silva Jessica Pires , Lange Bárbara Gil , Siegel Danielle , de Moraes Ana Carolina Rabello , Del Moral Joanita Angela Gonzaga , Santos‐Silva Maria Claudia
Published: May 2017

Background

B cell lymphomas' (BCL) current diagnosis is usually based on a combination of morphology, immunophenotype, recurrent cytogenetic aberration and clinical features. However, even with these diagnostic tools, a definitive diagnosis can be difficult to achieve. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the profile of CD39, CD43, CD81, and CD95 expressions in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL), and Burkitt lymphoma (BL) cases.

Methods

To address this issue, we investigated the expression of CD39, CD43, CD81, and CD95 by eight‐color flow cytometry in retrospective cases from 2014 to 2016.

Results

The study included 27 adult patients diagnosed with DLBCL, FL, and BL during the study period. Four patients were diagnosed with germinal center B cell‐like DLBCL (GCB DLBCL), seven with non‐GCB DLBCL, nine with FL, and seven with BL. CD39 seems to be especially relevant to differentiate non‐GCB DLBCL from BL and from FL. BL showed stronger expression of CD43 when compared to FL and GCB DLBCL. Moreover, CD43 may help to distinguish non‐GCB DLBCL from GCB DLBCL. CD81 expression was much stronger in BL when compared to the other three groups of patients. Lastly, CD95 may also help to distinguish BL from the other subtypes, as BL cells expressed this antigen at low levels.

Conclusions

In combination, CD39, CD43, CD81, and CD95 expressions appear to be helpful to distinguish CD10+ BCL, particularly BL. Phenotypic distinction between FL and GCB DLBCL remains challenging and requires further studies. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Create campus environments that support students with impairments
Authors: Evans Nancy J. , Broido Ellen M. , Brown Kirsten R. , Wilke Autumn K.
Published: May 2017

This article is adapted from Disability in Higher Education: A Social Justice Approach, published by Jossey‐Bass, A Wiley Brand.
Integrate students into campus with strong peer relationships
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2017

Beth Myers is the executive director of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education at Syracuse University. The Taishoff Center has a broad mission to advocate for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities and increase higher education opportunities for these students across the country. The Taishoff Center's on‐campus initiative is called InclusiveU.
Wait weight, is obesity a disability?
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: May 2017

With rising rates of obesity among postsecondary students, students with high body mass indices increasingly ask schools to accommodate their needs by providing classroom, housing, and educational accommodations ranging from special furniture to very large horses in equestrian programs. Although as a matter of course many institutions accommodate these students, their underlying assumption that morbid obesity is a disability within the meaning of Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act appears to be incorrect.
Resequencing and comparison of whole mitochondrial genome to gain insight into the evolutionary status of the Shennongjia golden snub‐nosed monkey (SNJ R. roxellana)
Authors: Hong Yanyun , Duo Hairui , Hong Juyun , Yang Jinyuan , Liu Shiming , Yu Lianghui , Yi Tuyong
Published: May 2017

Shennongjia Rhinopithecus roxellana (SNJ R. roxellana) is the smallest geographical population of R. roxellana. The phylogenetic relationships among its genera and species and the biogeographic processes leading to their current distribution are largely unclear. To address these issues, we resequenced and obtained a new, complete mitochondrial genome of SNJ R. roxellana by next‐generation sequencing and standard Sanger sequencing. We analyzed the gene composition, constructed a phylogenetic tree, inferred the divergence ages based on complete mitochondrial genome sequences, and analyzed the genetic divergence of 13 functional mtDNA genes. The phylogenetic tree and divergence ages showed that R. avunculus (the Tonkin snub‐nosed monkey) was the first to diverge from the Rhinopithecus genus ca. 2.47 million years ago (Ma). Rhinopithecus bieti and Rhinopithecus strykeri formed sister groups, and the second divergence from the Rhinopithecus genus occurred ca. 1.90 Ma. R. roxellana and R. brelichi diverged from the Rhinopithecus genus third, ca. 1.57 Ma. SNJ R. roxellana was the last to diverge within R. roxellana species in 0.08 Ma, and the most recent common ancestor of R. roxellana is 0.10 Ma. The analyses on gene composition showed SNJ R. roxellana was the newest geographic population of R. roxellana. The work will help to develop a more accurate protection policy for SNJ R. roxellana and facilitate further research on selection and adaptation of R. roxellana.
RNA editing by the host ADAR system affects the molecular evolution of the Zika virus
Authors: Piontkivska Helen , Frederick Madeline , Miyamoto Michael M. , Wayne Marta L.
Published: May 2017

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito‐transmitted flavivirus, linked to microcephaly and fetal death in humans. Here, we investigate whether host‐mediated RNA editing of adenosines (ADAR) plays a role in the molecular evolution of ZIKV. Using complete coding sequences for the ZIKV polyprotein, we show that potential ADAR substitutions are underrepresented at the ADAR‐resistant GA dinucleotides of both the positive and negative strands, that these changes are spatially and temporally clustered (as expected of ADAR editing) for three branches of the viral phylogeny, and that ADAR mutagenesis can be linked to its codon usage. Furthermore, resistant GA dinucleotides are enriched on the positive (but not negative) strand, indicating that the former is under stronger purifying selection than the latter. ADAR editing also affects the evolution of the rhabdovirus sigma. Our study now documents that host ADAR editing is a mutation and evolutionary force of positive‐ as well as negative‐strand RNA viruses.
Disentangling the effects of date, individual, and territory quality on the seasonal decline in fitness
Authors: Pärt Tomas , Knape Jonas , Low Matthew , Öberg Meit , Arlt Debora
Published: May 2017

The seasonal timing of reproduction is a major fitness factor in many organisms. Commonly, individual fitness declines with time in the breeding season. We investigated three suggested but rarely tested hypotheses for this seasonal fitness decline: (1) time per se (date hypothesis), (2) late breeders are of lower quality than early ones (individual quality hypothesis), and (3) late breeders are breeding at poorer territories than early breeders (territory quality hypothesis). We used Bayesian variance component analyses to examine reproductive output (breeding success, number fledged, and number of recruits) from repeated observations of female Northern Wheatears (Oenanthe oenanthe) and individual territories from a 20‐yr population study. The major part of the observed seasonal decline in reproductive output seemed to be driven by date‐related effects, whereas female age and territory type (i.e., known indicators of temporary quality) contributed to a smaller degree. Other, persistent effects linked to individual and territory identity did not show any clear patterns on the seasonal decline in reproductive output. To better disentangle the quality effects (persistent and temporary) of individual and territory from effects caused by the deterioration of the environment we suggest a protocol combining experimental manipulation of breeding time with a variance–covariance partitioning method used here.
Basic Design Method for SPMSM Based on Air‐Gap Magnetic Flux Density Distribution Focusing on Image Magnetic Pole
Authors: SUGIYAMA TAKAHIRO
Published: May 2017

This paper presents a basic design method for the surface‐mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor (SPMSM) for both distributed and concentrated windings. The design is based on the air‐gap magnetic flux density distribution focusing on the image magnetic pole. The calculus equation of the air‐gap magnetic flux density distribution is analytically derived by supposing the magnetic pole is located on the magnet surface and image planes. In this study, a three‐phase and double‐layer stator winding SPMSM that has a linear demagnetizing characteristic magnet, such as a ferrite or rare‐earth magnet is considered. From the required specifications and design conditions, the design target values of the parameters that appear in the voltages equations of the d–q axis coordinate system are calculated. Then, the relational equations for the torque constant, d‐axis inductance, copper loss, and the maximum current density are presented as a function of three design parameters under id = 0 control. They are the stator stack length, the number of coil turns in series in a phase, and the slot bottom length. Hence, this approach reduces the SPMSM basic design to the problem with these design parameters has to be solved. The proposed method makes it possible to address the concentrated winding as a special case of the distributed winding. The FEA results confirm the validity of the proposed basic design method for both distributed and concentrated windings.
Experimental Services of Energy Management for Energy Users in Business Region on Miyakojima City All‐Islands EMS Demonstration Project
Authors: IINO YUTAKA , OGITA YOSHIHIRO , SHIMODA GAKU , ZENHIRA MASARU , MIKAMI SATORU , IKEMA YUKIO
Published: May 2017

Smart grid and demand response (DR) had been attracting attention and evaluated in several demonstration projects. Many DR experimental results for residential and large‐scale buildings had been evaluated, while evaluation for small size buildings seems to be not enough. In this paper, a new energy service combined EMS method is proposed for small size buildings. Then results of its application to Miyako Island All‐Islands EMS Demonstration Project are introduced. The experimental services include not only DRs but also peak cutting recommendations and energy analysis reports. The results show combination of services can realize more effects than individual service. Especially the peak cutting recommendations and energy analysis reports help energy consumers to learn and understand how to save and manage energy usages that lead to effective DR potentials. Also the experimental system developed for energy data measurement and DR management as an island community EMS is intrduced.
MHC I presentation of Toxoplasma gondii immunodominant antigen does not require Sec22b and is regulated by antigen orientation at the vacuole membrane
Authors: Buaillon Célia , Guerrero Nestor A. , Cebrian Ignacio , Blanié Sophie , Lopez Jodie , Bassot Emilie , Vasseur Virginie , Santi‐Rocca Julien , Blanchard Nicolas
Published: May 2017

The intracellular Toxoplasma gondii parasite replicates within a parasitophorous vacuole (PV). T. gondii secretes proteins that remain soluble in the PV space, are inserted into PV membranes or are exported beyond the PV boundary. In addition to supporting T. gondii growth, these proteins can be processed and presented by MHC I for CD8+ T‐cell recognition. Yet it is unclear whether membrane binding influences the processing pathways employed and if topology of membrane antigens impacts their MHC I presentation. Here we report that the MHC I pathways of soluble and membrane‐bound antigens differ in their requirement for host ER recruitment. In contrast to the soluble SAG1‐OVA model antigen, we find that presentation of the membrane‐bound GRA6 is independent from the SNARE Sec22b, a key molecule for transfer of host endoplasmic reticulum components onto the PV. Using parasites modified to secrete a transmembrane antigen with opposite orientations, we further show that MHC I presentation is highly favored when the C‐terminal epitope is exposed to the host cell cytosol, which corresponds to GRA6 natural orientation. Our data suggest that the biochemical properties of antigens released by intracellular pathogens critically guide their processing pathway and are valuable parameters to consider for vaccination strategies.