bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type I (SPINK1) promotes BRL‐3A cell proliferation via p38, ERK, and JNK pathways
Authors: Chang Cuifang , Zhao Weiming , Luo Yaru , Xi Lingling , Chen Shasha , Zhao Congcong , Wang Gaiping , Guo Jianlin , Xu Cunshuan
Published: August 2017

Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type I (SPINK1) has the similar spatial structure as epidermal growth factor (EGF); EGF can interact with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to promote proliferation in different cell types. However, whether SPINK1 can interact with EGFR and further regulate the proliferation of hepatocytes in liver regeneration remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of SPINK1 in a rat liver hepatocyte line of BRL‐3A in vitro. The results showed the upregulation of endogenous Spink1 (gene addition) significantly increased not only the cell viability, cell numbers in S and G2/M phase, but also upregulated the genes/proteins expression related to cell proliferation and anti‐apoptosis in BRL‐3A. In contrast, the cell number in G1 phase and the expression of pro‐apoptosis‐related genes/proteins were significantly decreased. The similar results were observed when the cells were treated with exogenous rat recombinant SPINK1. Immunoblotting suggested SPINK1 can interact with EGFR. By Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software, the SPINK1 signalling pathway was built; the predicted read outs were validated by qRT‐PCR and western blot; and the results showed that p38, ERK, and JNK pathways‐related genes/proteins were involved in the cell proliferation upon the treatment of endogenous Spink1 and exogenous SPINK1. Collectively, SPINK1 can associate with EGFR to promote the expression of cell proliferation‐related and anti‐apoptosis‐related genes/proteins; inhibit the expression of pro‐apoptosis‐related genes/proteins via p38, ERK, and JNK pathways; and consequently promote the proliferation of BRL‐3A cells. For the first time, we demonstrated that SPINK1 can associate with EGFR to promote the proliferation of BRL‐3A cells via p38, ERK, and JNK pathways. This work has direct implications on the underlying mechanism of SPINK1 in regulating hepatocytes proliferation in vivo and liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy.
Mental disorder and victimisation in prison: Examining the role of mental health treatment
Authors: Daquin Jane C. , Daigle Leah E.
Published: August 2017

Background

There is evidence that people with mental disorders are at increased risk of victimisation in prison. It is unclear whether this risk of victimisation varies across types of disorders or symptoms and what role mental health treatment has on victimisation risk in this context.

Aims

To examine the relationship between specific mental disorders, psychiatric symptoms, and victimisation in prison and the effect of treatment for the disorders on victimisation risk.

Methods

Using a nationally‐representative sample of prisoners, path analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between mental disorder and victimisation. The analyses also examined whether receiving mental health treatment in prison affected any such relationship.

Results

Victimisation risk varied with the type of mental disorder or symptoms. Depression, personality disorder, hopelessness, paranoia, and hallucinations were associated with increased victimisation risk. Psychotic illnesses were otherwise negatively associated with victimisation. Receiving mental health treatment in prison was associated with greater risk of victimisation there. Receiving treatment appeared to mediate the relationship between mental disorders, symptoms, and victimisation.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that not all inmates with mental disorders are at an increased risk of victimisation. Further, mental health treatment in prison also appears to be a risk factor of victimisation. More research is needed to further elucidate the relationship between mental disorders, treatment, and victimisation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Particle and Powder Technology – Industry Meets Scienceat PARTEC
Authors: Nirschl Hermann
Published: August 2017

No abstract.
Metalloradical Reactivity of RuI and Ru0 Stabilized by an Indole‐Based Tripodal Tetraphosphine Ligand
Authors: van de Watering Fenna F. , van der Vlugt Jarl Ivar , Dzik Wojciech I. , de Bruin Bas , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: August 2017

The tripodal, tetradentate tris(1‐(diphenylphosphanyl)‐3‐methyl‐1H‐indol‐2‐yl)phosphane PP3‐ligand 1 stabilizes Ru in the RuII, RuI, and Ru0 oxidation states. The octahedral [(PP3)RuII(Cl)2] (2), distorted trigonal bipyramidal [(PP3)RuI(Cl)] (3), and trigonal bipyramidal [(PP3)Ru0(N2)] (4) complexes were isolated and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, NMR, EPR, IR, and ESI‐MS. Both open‐shell metalloradical RuI complex 3 and the closed‐shell Ru0 complex 4 undergo facile (net) abstraction of a Cl atom from dichloromethane, resulting in formation of the corresponding RuII and RuI complexes 2 and 3, respectively.
Metal‐Containing Polymers as Light‐Emitting and Light‐Responsive Materials and Beyond
Authors: Mauro Matteo , Bellemin‐Laponnaz Stéphane , Cebrián Cristina
Published: August 2017

Functional materials that respond to external stimuli are of major current interest. In particular, supramolecular systems that can interact with their surroundings, adapt to environmental changes and evolve with are even more fascinating, yet challenging. Combining the rich physico‐chemical properties featured by metal centres with characteristics typical of classical organic polymers, metallopolymers or metallo‐supramolecular polymers can be prepared, depending on their static versus dynamic structural features. Additionally, multiple and orthogonal functionalities can be encoded in their chemical structure affording materials with widespread potential applications to be employed as “smart” materials for advanced technologies. In this Concept article, selected examples of metal‐containing polymers will be described demonstrating large potentialities of such systems for creating stimuli‐responsive materials with special emphasis for those showing optical applications.
Charge Control in Model Catalysis: The Decisive Role of the Oxide–Nanoparticle Interface
Authors: Schneider Wolf‐Dieter , Heyde Markus , Freund Hans‐Joachim
Published: August 2017

In chemistry and physics the electronic charge on a species or material is one important determinant of its properties. In the present Minireview, the essential requirements for a model catalyst system suitable to study charge control are discussed. The ideal model catalyst for this purpose consists of a material system, which comprises a single crystal metal support, covered by an epitaxially grown ultrathin oxide film, and flat, two‐dimensional nanoparticles residing on this film. Several examples from the literature are selected and presented, which illustrate various aspects of electron transport from the support to the nanoparticle and vice versa. Key experiments demonstrate charge control within such model catalysts and give direct evidence for a chemical reaction at the perimeter of Au nanoparticles. The concepts derived from these studies are then taken a step further to see how they may be applied for bulk powder oxide supported nanoparticles as they are frequently found in catalytically active materials.
Fullerene Cluster Assisted Self‐Assembly of Short DNA Strands into Semiconducting Nanowires
Authors: Vittala Sandeepa Kulala , Saraswathi Sajena Kanangat , Joseph Joshy
Published: August 2017

Programmable, hierarchical assembly of DNA nanostructures with precise organisation of functional components have been demonstrated previously with tiled assembly and DNA origami. However, building organised nanostructures with random oligonucleotide strands remains as an elusive problem. Herein, a simple and general strategy, in which nanoclusters of a fullerene derivative act as stapler motifs in bringing ordered nanoscale assembly of short oligonucleotide duplexes into micrometre‐sized nanowires, is described. In this approach, the fullerene derivative, by virtue of its amphiphilic structure and unique hydrophobic–hydrophilic balance, pre‐assembles to form 3–5 nm sized clusters in a mixture of DMSO–phosphate buffer, which further assists the assembly of DNA strands. The optimum cluster size, availability of DNA anchoring motifs and the nature of the DNA strands controls the structure of these nanomaterials. Furthermore, horizontal conductivity measurements through conductive AFM confirmed the charge transport properties of these nanowires. The current strategy could be employed to organise random DNA duplexes and tiles into functional nanostructures, and hence, open up new avenues in DNA nanotechnology.
Photoswitchable Carbohydrate‐Based Macrocyclic Azobenzene: Synthesis, Chiroptical Switching, and Multistimuli‐Responsive Self‐Assembly
Authors: Lin Chaoqi , Maisonneuve Stéphane , Métivier Rémi , Xie Juan
Published: August 2017

A one‐pot O‐alkylation mediated macrocyclization approach has been used for the synthesis of carbohydrate‐based macrocyclic azobenzene. The synthesized macrocycle can be reversibly isomerized between E and Z isomers upon UV or visible irradiation with excellent photostability and thermal stability (t1/2=51 days at 20 °C for the Z isomer). A chirality transfer from the chiral sugar unit to azobenzene was observed by circular dichroism (CD). DFT and TD‐DFT calculations were performed to calculate the optimal geometry and the theoretical absorption and CD spectra. Comparison of the experimental CD spectra with the theoretical ones suggests that both E‐ and Z‐macrocycles adopt preferentially P‐helicity for the azobenzene moiety. Furthermore, the macrocycle showed gelation ability in cyclohexane and ethanol with multistimuli‐responsive behavior upon exposure to environmental stimuli including thermal‐, photo‐, and mechanical responses. Moreover, these organogels display temperature‐dependent helical inversion, which can be tuned by a repeated heating–cooling procedure.
Pyroglutamate‐Modified Amyloid β (11‐ 40) Fibrils Are More Toxic than Wildtype Fibrils but Structurally Very Similar
Authors: Scheidt Holger A. , Adler Juliane , Zeitschel Ulrike , Höfling Corinna , Korn Alexander , Krueger Martin , Roßner Steffen , Huster Daniel
Published: August 2017

The morphology, structure, and dynamics of mature amyloid β (Aβ) fibrils formed by the Aβ variant, which is truncated at residue 11 and chemically modified by enzymatic pyroglutamate formation (pGlu11‐Aβ(11–40)), was studied along with the investigation of the toxicity of these Aβ variants to neurons and astrocytes. The fibrils of pGlu11‐Aβ (11–40) were more toxic than wildtype Aβ (1–40) and the longer pGlu3‐Aβ (3–40) especially at higher concentration, whereas the overall morphology was quite similar. The secondary structure of pGlu11‐Aβ (11–40) fibrils shows the typical two β‐strands connected by a short turn as known for mature fibrils of Aβ (1–40) and also pGlu3‐Aβ (3–40). Further insights into tertiary contacts exhibit some similarities of pGlu11‐Aβ (11–40) fibrils with wildtype Aβ (1–40), but also a so far not described contact between Gly25 and Ile31. This highlights the biological importance of chemical modifications on the molecular structure of Aβ.
Circular dichroism spectroscopy and DFT calculations in determining absolute configuration and E/Z isomers of conjugated oximes
Authors: Rode Joanna E. , Frelek Jadwiga
Published: August 2017

The primary purpose of this work was to demonstrate the suitability of circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy in stereochemical studies of α,β‐unsaturated oximes, with particular emphasis on determination of E and Z geometry of the oxime double bond. As models for this study, O‐phenyl and O‐triphenylmethyl (trityl) oximes of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐methylcyclopent‐2‐en‐1‐one were selected. These model compounds differ in both absolute configuration at C4 carbon atom and E‐Z configuration of the oxime double bond. The basic dichroic technique applied was electronic circular dichroism (ECD) assisted by quantum‐chemical calculations and vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) for selected cases. Such an approach enabled effective implementation of both goals. Thus, we were able to associate the signs of Cotton effects in the range of 190–240 nm with the absolute configuration at C4 and within 240–300 nm with the E‐ or Z‐geometry of the oxime double bond. Within this work, optical activity of the protecting trityl group was also studied towards formation of the propeller‐shaped conformations by using the same combined CD/DFT methodology. As shown, the helical structure of the trityl group has a considerable influence on the ECD spectra. However, the MPM and PMP conformers of the trityl group are in fact almost equally populated in the conformational equilibrium, making it impossible to distinguish them. On the other hand, rotamers of the hydroxyl group at C4 show a decisive impact on the VCD spectra in both phenoxy and trityl oximes.
Valency Control and Functional Synergy in DNA‐Bonded Nanomolecules
Authors: Song Lei , Deng Zhaoxiang
Published: August 2017

The rapid development of DNA nanotechnology has enabled a precise organization of nanoscale matter with ultimate structural programmability. In particular, DNA‐bonded discrete nanoparticle assemblies (“nanomolecules”) have the potential to allow sophisticated functional realizations of inorganic nanomaterials via molecule‐like structural controls. Such an ambitious goal may gradually become achievable, encouraged by recent advancements in related fields. Two key issues must first be solved in order to realize such a goal: valency control over DNA bonding and strong coupling among DNA‐bonded functional units. The former allows a directional bonding of a nanoparticle to a defined number of partners, and the latter confers a functional synergy among self‐assembled materials to meet specific applications. This review introduces recent methodological breakthroughs to address the above issues, and discusses the short‐ and long‐term bottlenecks in the pursuit of nanoparticle “molecules” with highly engineered structures and functions.
Correspondence analysis of color–emotion associations
Authors: Hanada Mitsuhiko
Published: August 2017

Emotions are often associated with colors, but what mediates color–emotion associations is not fully understood. This study examined associations between colors and emotions using correspondence analysis. The hypothesis that emotions are associated with colors through the correspondence between the hue circle and the circumplex model of emotion/affect was tested. Participants viewed 40 colors and reported a word that expressed an emotion that they associated with or felt in response to each color. Participants' responses were aggregated into a contingency table of colors and emotion words, and a correspondence analysis was conducted. An eight‐dimensional biplot was obtained. The first and second dimensions were related to hue, and the hue configuration was similar to colors' spectral trajectory in the CIE xy space or the CIELAB a*b* color space. The configuration of emotions was not consistent with the circumplex model of emotion, which rejected the above hypothesis. The associations in dimensions 1 and 2 appeared to be mediated by the perceived temperature of colors and emotions. In dimensions 3–6, dimensions that seemed to reflect secondary associations based on cultural convention or personal experiences (such as white with emotionless and purity and blue with depression) were obtained. These results also demonstrated the usefulness of correspondence analysis for analyzing color–emotion associations due to its ability to reveal the underlying statistical structure of associations.
Energy‐efficient task allocation for service provisioning in machine‐to‐machine systems
Authors: Skocir Pavle , Kusek Mario , Jezic Gordan
Published: August 2017

Machine‐to‐Machine (M2M) communication systems enable autonomous communication between heterogeneous devices. In many applications, those devices are used to obtain measurements from sensors connected to them. By integrating M2M with the Internet of things paradigm, sensors and the data they obtain can be easily accessed via Internet infrastructure. This novelty, along with the advancement of processing power on small devices and the possibility to connect more sensors to one sensing device, poses new challenges and opens new opportunities in the area. This paper presents an algorithm and a protocol devised for task allocation to nodes of the M2M architecture where M2M devices are battery powered. The presented mechanism tackles some of the identified challenges within the area. First challenge is to determine the right node for performing data analysis. Certain data analysis tasks can be performed on device, instead of only on servers, which is a traditional approach. Another challenge is to relate the process of obtaining measurements with user needs, i.e. to collect data only when users have interest in it. The last identified challenge is to extend lifetime of services with higher priority, instead of prolonging lifetime of all devices within the network. Adoption of the proposed mechanism is justified on specific services in a smart home environment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preschool children's response to behavioural parent training and parental predictors of outcome in routine clinical care
Authors: van der Veen‐Mulders Lianne , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Nauta Maaike H. , van den Hoofdakker Barbara J.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of behavioral parent training (BPT) for preschool children with disruptive behaviours and to explore parental predictors of response.

Methods

Parents of 68 preschool children, aged between 2.7 and 5.9 years, participated in BPT. We evaluated the changes in children's behaviour after BPT with a one group pretest–posttest design, using a waiting period for a double pretest. Outcome was based on parents' reports of the intensity and number of behaviour problems on the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory. Predictor variables included parents' attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, antisocial behaviours, and alcohol use, and maternal parenting self‐efficacy and disciplining.

Results

Mother‐reported child behaviour problems did not change in the waiting period but improved significantly after BPT (d = 0.63). High levels of alcohol use by fathers and low levels of maternal ineffective disciplining were each associated with somewhat worse outcome.

Conclusions

BPT under routine care conditions clearly improves disruptive behaviours in preschool children. Mothers who consider themselves as inadequate in disciplining and mothers whose partners do not consume high levels of alcohol report the largest improvements.
Different aspects of emotional intelligence of borderline personality disorder
Authors: Peter Mathell , Arntz Arnoud R. , Klimstra Theo , Vingerhoets Ad J.J.M.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

The present study investigated deficiencies in different components of emotional intelligence in borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Method

The Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) and the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ‐i) were used to assess EI dimensions. BPD patients (N = 85; 69 women; M = 33.6 years) were compared with Cluster C personality disorder (PD) patients (N = 39; 23 women; M = 36.6 years) and nonpatients (N = 69; 44 women; M = 35.6 years).

Results

Compared to the Cluster C PD patients and the nonpatient group, BPD patients displayed only deficits in their ability to understand emotions as measured with the Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test. The Emotional Quotient Inventory only revealed deficits in stress management in BPD patients compared to Cluster C PD patients.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that BPD patients have the ability to regulate emotions effectively, but they subjectively experience deficits in emotion regulation and therefore may not use this ability when they need it.
Comparing the acceptability of a positive psychology intervention versus a cognitive behavioural therapy for clinical depression
Authors: Lopez‐Gomez Irene , Chaves Covadonga , Hervas Gonzalo , Vazquez Carmelo
Published: August 2017

There is growing evidence on the efficacy of positive psychology interventions (PPI) to treat clinical disorders. However, very few studies have addressed their acceptability. The present study aimed to analyse 2 key components of acceptability (i.e., client satisfaction and adherence to treatment) of a new PPI programme, the Integrative Positive Psychological Intervention for Depression (IPPI‐D), in comparison to a standard cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programme in the treatment of clinical depression. One hundred twenty‐eight women with a DSM‐IV diagnosis of major depression or dysthymia were allocated to a 10‐session IPPI‐D or CBT group intervention condition. Results showed that both interventions were highly acceptable for participants. Attendance rates were high, and there were no significant differences between conditions. However, the IPPI‐D condition showed significantly higher client satisfaction than the CBT condition. Moreover, acceptability did not differ based on participants' severity of symptoms, regardless of condition. These findings encourage further investigations of the applicability of PPI in clinical settings in order to broaden the range of acceptable and suitable therapies for depressed patients.

Key Practitioner Message

This study sheds light on the client satisfaction and adherence to a positive intervention.

For participants, positive psychology interventions (PPI) may be more satisfactory than CBT as PPI are framed within a positive mental health model and, consequently, may reduce the risk of stigmatization

Because acceptability of treatments and preferences may affect the efficacy of treatments, this study provides an excellent opportunity to offer professionals more therapeutic options to tailor treatments to clients' needs and expectations
Safety and Ergogenic Properties of Combined Aminophylline and Ambrisentan in Hypoxia
Authors: Schroeder Thies , Piantadosi Claude A. , Natoli Michael J. , Autmizguine Julie , Cohen‐Wolkowieczs Michael , Hamilton Karyn L. , Bell Christopher , Klawitter Jelena , Christians Uwe , Irwin David C. , Noveck Robert J.
Published: August 2017

We hypothesized that concomitant pharmacological inhibition of the endothelin and adenosine pathway is safe and improves exercise performance in hypoxic humans, via a mechanism that does not involve augmentation of blood oxygenation. To test this hypothesis, we established safety and drug interactions for aminophylline (500 mg) plus ambrisentan (5 mg) in normoxic volunteers. Subsequently, a placebo‐controlled study was employed to test the combination in healthy resting and exercising volunteers at simulated altitude (4,267 m). No serious adverse events occurred. Drug interaction was minimal or absent. Aminophylline alleviated hypoxia‐induced headaches. Aminophylline, ambrisentan, and their combination all significantly (P < 0.05 vs. placebo) improved submaximal hypoxic exercise performance (19.5, 20.6, and 19.1% >placebo). Single‐dose ambrisentan increased blood oxygenation in resting, hypoxic subjects. We conclude that combined aminophylline and ambrisentan offer promise to safely increase exercise capacity in hypoxemic humans without relying on increasing blood oxygen availability.
Fabrication of Lead‐Free (CH3NH3)3Bi2I9 Perovskite Photovoltaics in Ethanol Solvent
Authors: Li Haijin , Wu Congcong , Yan Yongke , Chi Bo , Pu Jian , Li Jian , Priya Shashank
Published: August 2017

The toxicity of lead present in organohalide perovskites and the hazardous solvent systems used for their synthesis hinder the deployment of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, an environmentally friendly route toward bismuth‐based, lead‐free (CH3NH3)3Bi2I9 perovskites that utilize ethanol as the solvent is described. Using this method, dense and homogeneous microstructures were obtained, compared to the porous, rough microstructures obtained using dimethylformamide. Photovoltaic performances were enhanced, with an open‐circuit voltage of 0.84 V measured.
Variable kernel‐based computing algorithms for estimating sparse multipath channels
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhao Ruijie , Song Rongfang , Xiong Jian , Liang Yan , Luo Wang , Xu Li , Gui Guan
Published: August 2017

Accurate channel estimation algorithms are required to mitigate the frequency‐selective fading in the broadband wireless communication systems. Many physical experiments revealed that finite impulsive responses are distributed as sparse in delayed time domain. Hence, the inherent sparse information can be exploited by state‐of‐the‐art computing algorithms, in order to improve channel accuracy. Existing computing algorithms, zero‐attracting recursive least square (ZA‐RLS) and reweighted ZA‐RLS (RZA‐RLS), have been developed to exploit channel sparsity. However, optimization theory implies that accuracy of the computing algorithms can be further improved to exploit more sparsity information. To further improve the estimation performance, this paper proposes a correntropy induced metric (CIM)‐penalized RLS (CIM‐RLS) based sparse channel estimation algorithm. Here, sparse constraint is performed by CIM function, while error constraint term is computed by RLS. In particular, Gaussian kernel is adopted for computing the CIM, and its variable kernel width (VKW) is computed for adaptively exploiting the channel sparsity. Monte Carlo simulation results are conducted to verify the proposed algorithm in different scenarios.
An agent‐based workflow scheduling mechanism with deadline constraint on hybrid cloud environment
Authors: Chang Yue‐Shan , Fan Chih‐Tien , Sheu Ruey‐Kai , Jhu Syuan‐Ru , Yuan Shyan‐Ming
Published: August 2017

With the advances of cloud computing, business and scientific‐oriented jobs with certain workflows are increasingly migrated to and run on a variety of cloud environments. These jobs are often with the property of deadline constraint and have to be completed within limited time. Therefore, to schedule a job with workflow (short for workflow) with deadline constraint is increasingly becoming a crucial research issue. In this paper, we, based on previous work, propose an agent‐based workflow scheduling mechanism to schedule workflows that are with deadline constraint into federated cloud environment.

Design and Methods

We add a workflow agent into the original framework to schedule the deadline‐constraint workflow. The workflow agent can smoothly schedule workflows to the cloud system according to their required resource and automatically monitor their execution. In order to accurately predict the execution time of each task to meet deadline constraint on certain VM with given resource, we inherit the use of rough set theory to estimate execution time of task in our previous work.

Result and Discussion

A heuristic algorithm that is embedded into the workflow agent is also proposed because the problem had been shown to be NP‐complete. The mechanism also adopts dynamic job dispatching method to reduce the usage of VM and to improve the resource utilization. We also conducted experiments to evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The experimental results show that the prediction time is very close to the real execution time and can efficiently schedule multiple scientific workflows to meet the deadline constraints simultaneously.
Mitigating tail latency in IEEE 802.11–based networks
Authors: Kim Dohyung , Yeom Ikjun , Lee Tae‐Jin
Published: August 2017

Delay sensitive applications are being actively introduced with the advent of 5G and vehicular communications, and such applications are very sensitive to tail latency. However, tail latency has not been seriously considered so far, especially in IEEE 802.11–based networks. Channel access is scheduled by random Contention Window (CW) values in IEEE 802.11–based networks, and the node with the larger CW waits longer, and it may even observe multiple transmissions from a single contending node, which results in a long latency tail. In this paper, we propose a new decentralized MAC called SynchMAC to mitigate this latency tail. In SynchMAC, every competing node transmits exactly one packet within a virtual time slot without a centralized controller. Using the proposed approach, the maximum channel access latency is bounded by T×2N, where T is the time required for transmitting a single packet (including Inter‐Frame Space and CW) and N is the number of competing nodes. To maximize the system throughput, the proposed scheme optimizes the value of T by considering the probability of successful transmission. Our simulation study shows that SynchMAC reduces the maximum access latency by up to 94% and 53% compared with the conventional IEEE 802.11 MAC and the comparative scheme, respectively, without degrading throughput performance. We also show that SynchMAC is easily extended to support weighted access.
Identification of specific markers for amphetamine synthesised from the pre‐precursor APAAN following the Leuckart route and retrospective search for APAAN markers in profiling databases from Germany and the Netherlands
Authors: Hauser Frank M. , Rößler Thorsten , Hulshof Janneke W. , Weigel Diana , Zimmermann Ralf , Pütz Michael
Published: August 2017

α‐Phenylacetoacetonitrile (APAAN) is one of the most important pre‐precursors for amphetamine production in recent years. This assumption is based on seizure data but there is little analytical data available showing how much amphetamine really originated from APAAN. In this study, several syntheses of amphetamine following the Leuckart route were performed starting from different organic compounds including APAAN. The organic phases were analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to search for signals caused by possible APAAN markers. Three compounds were discovered, isolated, and based on the performed syntheses it was found that they are highly specific for the use of APAAN. Using mass spectra, high resolution MS and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data the compounds were characterised and identified as 2‐phenyl‐2‐butenenitrile, 3‐amino‐2‐phenyl‐2‐butenenitrile, and 4‐amino‐6‐methyl‐5‐phenylpyrimidine. To investigate their significance, they were searched in data from seized amphetamine samples to determine to what extent they were present in illicitly produced amphetamine. Data of more than 580 cases from amphetamine profiling databases in Germany and the Netherlands were used for this purpose. These databases allowed analysis of the yearly occurrence of the markers going back to 2009. The markers revealed a trend that was in agreement with seizure reports and reflected an increasing use of APAAN from 2010 on. This paper presents experimental proof that APAAN is indeed the most important pre‐precursor of amphetamine in recent years. It also illustrates how important it is to look for new ways to identify current trends in drug production since such trends can change within a few years.
Gonadal soma controls ovarian follicle proliferation through Gsdf in zebrafish
Authors: Yan Yi‐Lin , Desvignes Thomas , Bremiller Ruth , Wilson Catherine , Dillon Danielle , High Samantha , Draper Bruce , Buck Charles Loren , Postlethwait John
Published: August 2017

Background: Aberrant signaling between germ cells and somatic cells can lead to reproductive disease and depends on diffusible signals, including transforming growth factor‐beta (TGFB) ‐family proteins. The TGFB‐family protein Gsdf (gonadal soma derived factor) controls sex determination in some fish and is a candidate for mediating germ cell/soma signaling. Results: Zebrafish expressed gsdf in somatic cells of bipotential gonads and expression continued in ovarian granulosa cells and testicular Sertoli cells. Homozygous gsdf knockout mutants delayed leaving the bipotential gonad state, but then became a male or a female. Mutant females ovulated a few oocytes, then became sterile, accumulating immature follicles. Female mutants stored excess lipid and down‐regulated aromatase, gata4, insulin receptor, estrogen receptor, and genes for lipid metabolism, vitellogenin, and steroid biosynthesis. Mutant females contained less estrogen and more androgen than wild‐types. Mutant males were fertile. Genomic analysis suggests that Gsdf, Bmp15, and Gdf9, originated as paralogs in vertebrate genome duplication events. Conclusions: In zebrafish, gsdf regulates ovarian follicle maturation and expression of genes for steroid biosynthesis, obesity, diabetes, and female fertility, leading to ovarian and extra‐ovarian phenotypes that mimic human polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), suggesting a role for a related TGFB signaling molecule in the etiology of PCOS. Developmental Dynamics 246:925–945, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gender differences in disordered eating behaviors and body dissatisfaction among adolescents with type 1 diabetes: Results from diabetes MILES youth—Australia
Authors: Araia Emanuala , Hendrieckx Christel , Skinner Timothy , Pouwer Frans , Speight Jane , King Ross M.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To examine gender differences in disordered eating behaviors (DEB) and body dissatisfaction in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. While evidence shows that female youth with type 1 diabetes are more prone to DEB compared to their peers without diabetes, little is known about male adolescents.

Method

In a national online survey, adolescents (13–19 years) with type 1 diabetes for ≥1 year completed the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey‐Revised (DEPS‐R), and the Body Mass Index Silhouette Matching Test (BMI‐SMT) and items on binge eating and insulin omission.

Results

About 477 adolescents (mean age 16 years; 62% females) completed the DEPS‐R and 431 the BMI‐SMT. The DEPS‐R total score was higher for females than males, with scores for females increasing with age. BMI, HbA1c, insulin omission, and binge‐eating frequency were associated moderately with DEPS‐R for both genders. On the BMI‐SMT, 88% of females wanted to be thinner. Of the males, 76% reported body dissatisfaction; however, only 43% expressed a desire for thinness with the remainder desiring a larger body size. DEPS‐R was positively associated with the discrepancy between perceived actual and ideal body size for both genders.

Discussion

A large proportion of adolescents with type 1 diabetes, particularly females reported engaging in DEB. Similarly, high rates of body dissatisfaction were reported, though ideal body shape preferences differed by gender. Given the high levels of self‐reported DEB and gender‐based patterns of body dissatisfaction, future research needs to examine the effectiveness of routine screening of DEB and consider implementation of stepped care approaches.
Recovery of plant communities after ecological restoration of forestry‐drained peatlands
Authors: Haapalehto Tuomas , Juutinen Riikka , Kareksela Santtu , Kuitunen Markku , Tahvanainen Teemu , Vuori Hilja , Kotiaho Janne S.
Published: August 2017

Ecological restoration is expected to reverse the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Due to the low number of well‐replicated field studies, the extent to which restoration recovers plant communities, and the factors underlying possible shortcomings, are not well understood even in medium term. We compared the plant community composition of 38 sites comprising pristine, forestry‐drained, and 5 or 10 years ago restored peatlands in southern Finland, with special interest in understanding spatial variation within studied sites, as well as the development of the numbers and the abundances of target species. Our results indicated a recovery of community composition 5–10 years after restoration, but there was significant heterogeneity in recovery. Plant communities farthest away from ditches were very similar to their pristine reference already 10 years after restoration. In contrast, communities in the ditches were as far from the target as the drained communities. The recovery appears to be characterized by a decline in the number and abundance of species typical to degraded conditions, and increase in the abundance of characteristic peatland species. However, we found no increase above the drained state in the number of characteristic peatland species. Our results suggest that there is a risk of drawing premature conclusions on the efficiency of ecological restoration with the current practice of short‐term monitoring. Our results also illustrate fine‐scale within‐site spatial variability in the degradation and recovery of the plant communities that should be considered when evaluating the success of restoration. Overall, we find the heterogeneous outcome of restoration observed here promising. However, low recovery in the number of characteristic species demonstrates the importance of prioritizing restoration sites, and addressing the uncertainty of recovery when setting restoration targets. It appears that it is easier to eradicate unwanted species than regain characteristic species by restoration.
A pantropical analysis of the impacts of forest degradation and conversion on local temperature
Authors: Senior Rebecca A. , Hill Jane K. , González del Pliego Pamela , Goode Laurel K. , Edwards David P.
Published: August 2017

Temperature is a core component of a species' fundamental niche. At the fine scale over which most organisms experience climate (mm to ha), temperature depends upon the amount of radiation reaching the Earth's surface, which is principally governed by vegetation. Tropical regions have undergone widespread and extreme changes to vegetation, particularly through the degradation and conversion of rainforests. As most terrestrial biodiversity is in the tropics, and many of these species possess narrow thermal limits, it is important to identify local thermal impacts of rainforest degradation and conversion. We collected pantropical, site‐level (<1 ha) temperature data from the literature to quantify impacts of land‐use change on local temperatures, and to examine whether this relationship differed aboveground relative to belowground and between wet and dry seasons. We found that local temperature in our sample sites was higher than primary forest in all human‐impacted land‐use types (N = 113,894 daytime temperature measurements from 25 studies). Warming was pronounced following conversion of forest to agricultural land (minimum +1.6°C, maximum +13.6°C), but minimal and nonsignificant when compared to forest degradation (e.g., by selective logging; minimum +1°C, maximum +1.1°C). The effect was buffered belowground (minimum buffering 0°C, maximum buffering 11.4°C), whereas seasonality had minimal impact (maximum buffering 1.9°C). We conclude that forest‐dependent species that persist following conversion of rainforest have experienced substantial local warming. Deforestation pushes these species closer to their thermal limits, making it more likely that compounding effects of future perturbations, such as severe droughts and global warming, will exceed species' tolerances. By contrast, degraded forests and belowground habitats may provide important refugia for thermally restricted species in landscapes dominated by agricultural land.
RADseq dataset with 90% missing data fully resolves recent radiation of Petalidium (Acanthaceae) in the ultra‐arid deserts of Namibia
Authors: Tripp Erin A. , Tsai Yi‐Hsin Erica , Zhuang Yongbin , Dexter Kyle G.
Published: August 2017

Deserts, even those at tropical latitudes, often have strikingly low levels of plant diversity, particularly within genera. One remarkable exception to this pattern is the genus Petalidium (Acanthaceae), in which 37 of 40 named species occupy one of the driest environments on Earth, the Namib Desert of Namibia and neighboring Angola. To contribute to understanding this enigmatic diversity, we generated RADseq data for 47 accessions of Petalidium representing 22 species. We explored the impacts of 18 different combinations of assembly parameters in de novo assembly of the data across nine levels of missing data plus a best practice assembly using a reference Acanthaceae genome for a total of 171 sequence datasets assembled. RADseq data assembled at several thresholds of missing data, including 90% missing data, yielded phylogenetic hypotheses of Petalidium that were confidently and nearly fully resolved, which is notable given that divergence time analyses suggest a crown age for African species of 3.6–1.4 Ma. De novo assembly of our data yielded the most strongly supported and well‐resolved topologies; in contrast, reference‐based assembly performed poorly, perhaps due in part to moderate phylogenetic divergence between the reference genome, Ruellia speciosa, and the ingroup. Overall, we found that Petalidium, despite the harshness of the environment in which species occur, shows a net diversification rate (0.8–2.1 species per my) on par with those of diverse genera in tropical, Mediterranean, and alpine environments.
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of Three Compounds Featuring the [Ge4S10]4– Anion from a Water‐Soluble Thiogermanate Precursor
Authors: Danker Felix , Näther Christian , Pielnhofer Florian , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: August 2017

Applying a new synthetic approach in which transition metal complexes and a thiogermanate source are in different liquid phases resulted in crystallization of three new compounds with the adamantane‐like [Ge4S10]4– anion at room temperature. In the crystal structure of [Ni(cyclam)]3[Ni(cyclam)(H2O)2][Ge4S10]2·21H2O (I, cyclam = 1,4,8,11‐tetraazacyclotetradecane), the two different Ni2+‐centered complexes and two unique [Ge4S10]4– anions are joined by H‐bonding interactions with a water cluster composed of condensed pentameric and hexameric rings. The compound {[Mn(2,2′‐bipy)2(H2O)]2Ge4S10}·3H2O (II, bipy = bipyridine) also contains the [Ge4S10]4– anion, which is expanded by two Mn2+‐centered complexes through Mn–S–Ge bonds. The aqua ligand of the Mn2+‐centered complex is involved in O–H···S H‐bonding to a terminal S atom of the anion with formation of a chain of {[Mn(2,2′‐bipy)2(H2O)]2Ge4S10} molecules. In the structure of [Fe(2,2′‐bipy)3]2[Ge4S10]·10H2O (III), the [Fe(2,2′‐bipy)3]2+ complexes are arranged to form channels that host the thiogermanate anions. Between the 2,2′‐bipy ligands of the complexes π–π interactions are observed. The water molecules of crystallization form two different types of water clusters.
Experimental Assessment of the π‐Acidity of Anionic and Neutral Malonate‐Derived N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Ruamps Mirko , Lugan Noël , César Vincent
Published: August 2017

The π‐acidity of anionic malonate‐derived N‐heterocyclic carbenes (maloNHC)–, [1]–, has been determined experimentally by recording the 77Se NMR chemical shifts of the corresponding maloNHC·Se adducts. Though anionic in nature, [1]– displays a significant π‐accepting character, which can additionally be fine‐tuned depending on the nature of the counter‐cation. The π‐acidity of neutral maloNHC‐derived carbenes was also assessed by neutralization of the malonate backbone, and it was shown to increase upon O‐methylation, giving rise to the (amino)(acrylamido)carbene 1Me and to increase even more dramatically upon protonation of the central carbon atom, which formally generates the diamidocarbene 1H.
Synthesis and Properties of Lewis Acidic Perfluoroorganotin Halides with 2,3,5,6‐Tetrafluoropyridyl and Pentafluoroethyl Substituents
Authors: Wiesemann Markus , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Neumann Beate , Hoge Berthold
Published: August 2017

In this paper, the synthesis of perfluoroorganotin bromides featuring 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoropyridyl (C5F4N) and pentafluoroethyl (C2F5) substituents of the general composition BrSn(C2F5)n(C5F4N)3–n (n = 0–2) is discussed. The utilization of the p‐tolyl unit as a protecting group and LiC5F4N and LiC2F5 as perfluoroarylation and alkylation reagents allows a stepwise sequence of deprotection with HX (X = Cl, Br) and substitution to afford heteroleptic stannanes with three different substituents. In the solid state, BrSn(C5F4N)3 and BrSn(C2F5)(C5F4N)2 readily add water or acetonitrile and increase their coordination numbers. These results emphasize the Lewis acidic character of such perfluoroorganotin halides.
Combining a Phenanthroline Moiety with Two Peralkylated Guanidine Residues: Janus Head Pro‐Ligands
Authors: Ortmeyer Jochen , Vukadinovic Yannik , Neuba Adam , Egold Hans , Flörke Ulrich , Henkel Gerald
Published: August 2017

A novel family of Janus head pro‐ligands is described that combine a phenanthroline moiety with two peralkylated guanidine residues. The bis‐bidentate molecules provide coordination sites with metal‐differentiating properties and thus are especially well suited to form heterobinuclear complexes. Synthesized members of this family differ in their substitution patterns and comprise variants with tetramethyl‐, tetraethyl‐, dipentylene‐, dimethylethylene‐, and dimethylpropylene‐guanidino functionalities. They were characterized by low‐temperature X‐ray crystallography and studied by means of temperature‐dependent 1H NMR spectroscopy, which provided information on the dynamics of their guanidine moieties. Furthermore, the redox behavior was investigated by using cyclic voltammetric techniques.
Expanding Blaise‐Type Reactions towards Indium‐Mediated Transformations of α‐Bromo‐β‐keto Esters with Nitriles
Authors: Li Luomo , Babaoglu Emre , Harms Klaus , Hilt Gerhard
Published: August 2017

The aim of this work is the identification of mild reaction conditions for the Blaise‐type transformation of brominated β‐keto esters with nitriles to generate enamino‐substituted keto esters. The best results were obtained when a combination of indium metal (0.7 equiv.) with indium trichloride (1.6 equiv.) were applied at 60 °C for 20 to 72 hours, and these conditions could be applied to a broad range of nitriles and a significant number of different β‐keto esters. The transformation of aliphatic nitriles proved to be difficult and gave only moderate yields. However, aromatic nitriles gave good yields in many cases. The applicability range of β‐keto esters is acceptable while some electron‐deficient aryl‐substituents on the keto ester were challenging substrates. Nevertheless, we were able to expand the scope of the Blaise‐type reaction towards brominated β‐keto esters significantly.
Fused Systems Based on 2‐Aminopyrimidines: Synthesis Combining Deprotolithiation‐in situ Zincation with N‐Arylation Reactions and Biological Properties
Authors: Hedidi Madani , Maillard Julien , Erb William , Lassagne Frédéric , Halauko Yury S. , Ivashkevich Oleg A. , Matulis Vadim E. , Roisnel Thierry , Dorcet Vincent , Hamzé Monzer , Fajloun Ziad , Baratte Blandine , Ruchaud Sandrine , Bach Stéphane , Bentabed‐Ababsa Ghenia , Mongin Florence
Published: August 2017

Various aromatic ketones were first functionalized next to the carbonyl function by deprotolithiation in the presence of a zinc salt followed by iodolysis. The outcome of the reactions was analyzed, and in particular their regioselectivity in the light of the calculated pKa values. Various halogenated ketones were next involved in copper‐catalyzed twofold C–N bond formation to obtain fused systems based on 2‐aminopyrimidines. Besides a potential antibacterial effect, 2‐aminobenzothiopyrano[4,3,2‐de]quinazoline was shown to inhibit PIM1 (IC50: 0.61 µm) and CDK2/cyclin A (IC50: 2.0 µm) kinases.