bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using network analysis for the prediction of treatment dropout in patients with mood and anxiety disorders: A methodological proof-of-concept study
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang , Schwartz Brian , Hofmann Stefan G. , Fisher Aaron J. , Husen Kristin , Rubel Julian A.
Published: May 2018

There are large health, societal, and economic costs associated with attrition from psychological services. The recently emerged, innovative statistical tool of complex network analysis was used in the present proof-of-concept study to improve the prediction of attrition. Fifty-eight patients undergoing psychological treatment for mood or anxiety disorders were assessed using Ecological Momentary Assessments four times a day for two weeks before treatment (3,248 measurements). Multilevel vector autoregressive models were employed to compute dynamic symptom networks. Intake variables and network parameters (centrality measures) were used as predictors for dropout using machine-learning algorithms. Networks for patients differed significantly between completers and dropouts. Among intake variables, initial impairment and sex predicted dropout explaining 6% of the variance. The network analysis identified four additional predictors: Expected force of being excited, outstrength of experiencing social support, betweenness of feeling nervous, and instrength of being active. The final model with the two intake and four network variables explained 32% of variance in dropout and identified 47 out of 58 patients correctly. The findings indicate that patients’ dynamic network structures may improve the prediction of dropout. When implemented in routine care, such prediction models could identify patients at risk for attrition and inform personalized treatment recommendations.
Author Correction: Magnetism and high magnetic-field-induced stability of alloy carbides in Fe-based materials
Authors: Hou T. P. , Wu K. M. , Liu W. M. , Peet M. J. , Hulme-Smith C. N. , Guo L. , Zhuang L.
Published: May 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
On spiking behaviour of oyster fungi Pleurotus djamor
Authors: Adamatzky Andrew
Published: May 2018

We recorded extra-cellular electrical potential of fruit bodies of oyster fungi Pleurotus djamor. We demonstrated that the fungi generate action potential like impulses of electrical potential. Trains of the spikes are observed. Two types of spiking activity are uncovered: high-frequency (period 2.6 min) and low-frequency (period 14 min); transitions between modes of spiking are illustrated. An electrical response of fruit bodies to short (5 sec) and long (60 sec) thermal stimulation with open flame is analysed in details. We show that non-stimulated fruit bodies of a cluster react to the thermal stimulation, with a single action-potential like spike, faster than the stimulated fruit body does.
Single measurement detection of individual cell ionic oscillations using an n-type semiconductor – electrolyte interface
Authors: Pietruszka Mariusz , Olszewska Monika , Machura Lukasz , Rówiński Edward
Published: May 2018

Pollen tubes are used as models in studies on the type of tip-growth in plants. They are an example of polarised and rapid growth because pollen tubes are able to quickly invade the flower pistil in order to accomplish fertilisation. How different ionic fluxes are perceived, processed or generated in the pollen tube is still not satisfactorily understood. In order to measure the H+, K+, Ca2+ and Cl− fluxes of a single pollen tube, we developed an Electrical Lab on a Photovoltaic-Chip (ELoPvC) on which the evolving cell was immersed in an electrolyte of a germination medium. Pollen from Hyacinthus orientalis L. was investigated ex vivo. We observed that the growing cell changed the (redox) potential in the medium in a periodic manner. This subtle measurement was feasible due to the effects that were taking place at the semiconductor-liquid interface. The experiment confirmed the existence of the ionic oscillations that accompany the periodic extension of pollen tubes, thereby providing – in a single run – the complete discrete frequency spectrum and phase relationships of the ion gradients and fluxes, while all of the metabolic and enzymatic functions of the cell life cycle were preserved. Furthermore, the global 1/fα characteristic of the power spectral density, which corresponds to the membrane channel noise, was found.
MicroRNAs as potential therapeutics to enhance chemosensitivity in advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Lin Hui-Ming , Nikolic Iva , Yang Jessica , Castillo Lesley , Deng Niantao , Chan Chia-Ling , Yeung Nicole K. , Dodson Eoin , Elsworth Benjamin , Spielman Calan , Lee Brian Y. , Boyer Zoe , Simpson Kaylene J. , Daly Roger J. , Horvath Lisa G. , Swarbrick Alexander
Published: May 2018

Docetaxel and cabazitaxel are taxane chemotherapy treatments for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, therapeutic resistance remains a major issue. MicroRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that can silence multiple genes, regulating several signalling pathways simultaneously. Therefore, synthetic microRNAs may have therapeutic potential in CRPC by regulating genes involved in taxane response and minimise compensatory mechanisms that cause taxane resistance. To identify microRNAs that can improve the efficacy of taxanes in CRPC, we performed a genome-wide screen of 1280 microRNAs in the CRPC cell lines PC3 and DU145 in combination with docetaxel or cabazitaxel treatment. Mimics of miR-217 and miR-181b-5p enhanced apoptosis significantly in PC3 cells in the presence of these taxanes. These mimics downregulated at least a thousand different transcripts, which were enriched for genes with cell proliferation and focal adhesion functions. Individual knockdown of a selection of 46 genes representing these transcripts resulted in toxic or taxane sensitisation effects, indicating that these genes may be mediating the effects of the microRNA mimics. A range of these genes are expressed in CRPC metastases, suggesting that these microRNA mimics may be functional in CRPC. With further development, these microRNA mimics may have therapeutic potential to improve taxane response in CRPC patients.
How does blood regulate cerebral temperatures during hypothermia?
Authors: Blowers Stephen , Marshall Ian , Thrippleton Michael , Andrews Peter , Harris Bridget , Bethune Iain , Valluri Prashant
Published: May 2018

Macro-modeling of cerebral blood flow can help determine the impact of thermal intervention during instances of head trauma to mitigate tissue damage. This work presents a bioheat model using a 3D fluid-porous domain coupled with intersecting 1D arterial and venous vessel trees. This combined vascular porous (VaPor) model resolves both cerebral blood flow and energy equations, including heat generated by metabolism, using vasculature extracted from MRI data and is extended using a tree generation algorithm. Counter-current flows are expected to increase thermal transfer within the brain and are enforced using either the vascular structure or flow reversal, represented by a flow reversal constant, C
R
. These methods exhibit larger average brain cooling (from 0.56 °C ± <0.01 °C to 0.58 °C ± <0.01 °C) compared with previous models (0.39 °C) when scalp temperature is reduced. An greater reduction in core brain temperature is observed (from 0.29 °C ± <0.01 °C to 0.45 °C ± <0.01 °C) compared to previous models (0.11 °C) due to the inclusion of counter-current cooling effects. The VaPor model also predicts that a hypothermic average temperature (<36 °C) can be reached in core regions of neonatal models using scalp cooling alone.
The bony labyrinth of toothed whales reflects both phylogeny and habitat preferences
Authors: Costeur Loïc , Grohé Camille , Aguirre-Fernández Gabriel , Ekdale Eric , Schulz Georg , Müller Bert , Mennecart Bastien
Published: May 2018

The inner ear of toothed whales (odontocetes) is known to have evolved particular shapes related to their abilities to echolocate and move under water. While the origin of these capacities is now more and more examined, thanks to new imaging techniques, little is still known about how informative inner ear shape could be to tackle phylogenetic issues or questions pertaining to the habitat preferences of extinct species. Here we show that the shape of the bony labyrinth of toothed whales provides key information both about phylogeny and habitat preferences (freshwater versus coastal and fully marine habitats). Our investigation of more than 20 species of extinct and modern odontocetes shows that the semi-circular canals are not very informative, in contrast to baleen whales, while the cochlea alone bears a strong signal. Inner ear shape thus provides a novel source of information to distinguish between morphologically convergent lineages (e.g. river dolphins).
Changes in T cell effector functions over an 8-year period with TNF antagonists in patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases
Authors: Sauzullo Ilaria , Scrivo Rossana , Sessa Paola , Mengoni Fabio , Vullo Vincenzo , Valesini Guido , Mastroianni Claudio Maria
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to clarify the effect of long-term anti-TNF therapy on T cell function in patients with rheumatologic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMID). The production of IFNγ by T cells was evaluated at baseline and after 1, 2, 4, and 8 years of anti-TNF agents by means of a QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube assay. The T cell proliferation and surface co-expression of CD25/CD134 in response to phytohaemagglutinin together with the in vitro impact of anti-TNF therapy on the functional capacity of T cells were evaluated after 8 years from the onset of the biological treatment. Age-matched healthy donors were enrolled as controls. The quantitative mitogen-induced IFNγ responses significantly increased with respect to baseline at each time point, apart from the determination after 4 years. We found an increased expression of CD25/CD134 in CD4+ compared to CD8+ T cells both in patients and controls. The in vitro addition of anti-TNF agents induced a significant decrease of both the IFNγ response and of CD25/CD134, whereas no effect on the intensity of the proliferative response was observed. Our data provide a biological basis for the reassuring issues on the safety of long-term anti-TNF treatment in patients with IMID.
Genetic risk score of common genetic variants for impaired fasting glucose and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes influences oxidative stress
Authors: Kim Minjoo , Kim Minkyung , Huang Limin , Jee Sun Ha , Lee Jong Ho
Published: May 2018

We tested the hypothesis that the cumulative effects of common genetic variants related to elevated fasting glucose are collectively associated with oxidative stress. Using 25 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), a weighted genetic risk score (wGRS) was constructed by summing nine risk alleles based on nominal significance and a consistent effect direction in 1,395 controls and 718 patients with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. All the participants were divided into the following three groups: low-wGRS, middle-wGRS, and high-wGRS groups. Among the nine SNPs, five SNPs were significantly associated with IFG and type 2 diabetes in this Korean population. wGRS was significantly associated with increased IFG and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (p = 6.83 × 10−14, odds ratio = 1.839) after adjusting for confounding factors. Among the IFG and type 2 diabetes patients, the fasting serum glucose and HbA1c levels were significantly higher in the high-wGRS group than in the other groups. The urinary 8-epi-PGF2α and malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly higher in the high-wGRS group than in the other groups. Moreover, general population-level instrumental variable estimation (using wGRS as an instrument) strengthened the causal effect regarding the largely adverse influence of high levels of fasting serum glucose on markers of oxidative stress in the Korean population. Thus, the combination of common genetic variants with small effects on IFG and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes are significantly associated with oxidative stress.
A randomized controlled pilot trial of game-based training in individuals with spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Wang Ray-Yau , Huang Fang-Yi , Soong Bing-Wen , Huang Shih-Fong , Yang Yea-Ru
Published: May 2018

Exergames are interactive video games used for exercise and may have therapeutic value in people with degenerative ataxia. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential effects of exergaming training on cerebellar ataxia in people with spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3). Nine individuals with SCA3 were recruited and randomized to either exergaming or conventional group for a 4-week training period. The severity of ataxia was measured as the primary outcome by the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) and by the directional control of the limit of stability test. The secondary outcomes included upper-limb function and gait performance. After training, participants in the exergaming group had a significant decrease in the total SARA score and the gait-posture SARA subscore. Participants in the conventional training group did not show a significant improvement in selected outcome measures after the 4-week training period. No significant difference was found between groups for any of these measures. Our results suggested that the exergaming training program significantly decreased ataxia. These results support implementation of exergaming training for people with SCA3.
Depression and diabetes distress in adults with type 2 diabetes: results from the Australian National Diabetes Audit (ANDA) 2016
Authors: Nanayakkara Natalie , Pease Anthony , Ranasinha Sanjeeva , Wischer Natalie , Andrikopoulos Sofianos , Speight Jane , de Courten Barbora , Zoungas Sophia
Published: May 2018

This study explores the prevalence of, and factors associated with, likely depression and diabetes distress in adults with type 2 diabetes in a large, national sample. Australian National Diabetes Audit data were analysed from adults with type 2 diabetes attending 50 diabetes centres. The Brief Case find for Depression and Diabetes Distress Score 17 were administered to screen for likely depression and diabetes-related distress, respectively. A total of 2,552 adults with type 2 diabetes participated: (mean ± SD) age was 63 ± 13 years, diabetes duration was 12 ± 10 years, and HbA1c was 8 ± 2%. Twenty-nine percent of patients had likely depression, 7% had high diabetes distress, and 5% had both. Difficulty following dietary recommendations, smoking, forgetting medications, and diabetes distress were all associated with greater odds of depression whereas higher own health rating was associated with lower odds (all p < 0.02). Female gender, increasing HbA1c, insulin use, difficulty following dietary recommendations and depression were all associated with greater odds of diabetes distress & older age, higher own health rating and monitoring blood glucose levels as recommended were associated with lower odds (all p < 0.04). Depression was associated with sub-optimal self-care, while diabetes distress was associated with higher HbA1c and sub-optimal self-care.
Bending-loss-independent operation of slope-assisted Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry
Authors: Lee Heeyoung , Ma Tianyi , Mizuno Yosuke , Nakamura Kentaro
Published: May 2018

We demonstrate loss-insensitive operation of slope-assisted Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry by employing a special silica fiber with low bending loss. As fundamental characterization, we measure the coefficients of the power-change dependencies on strain and temperature to be 1.42 × 10−4 dB/µε and 3.28 × 10−3 dB/K, respectively. Subsequently, by comparing the distributed strain and temperature measurement results using a standard silica fiber and the special fiber, we show that this configuration offers highly stable loss-insensitive operation for practical use in the future.
Prediction of Moisture Content for Congou Black Tea Withering Leaves Using Image Features and Nonlinear Method
Authors: Liang Gaozhen , Dong Chunwang , Hu Bin , Zhu Hongkai , Yuan Haibo , Jiang Yongwen , Hao Guoshuang
Published: May 2018

Withering is the first step in the processing of congou black tea. With respect to the deficiency of traditional water content detection methods, a machine vision based NDT (Non Destructive Testing) method was established to detect the moisture content of withered leaves. First, according to the time sequences using computer visual system collected visible light images of tea leaf surfaces, and color and texture characteristics are extracted through the spatial changes of colors. Then quantitative prediction models for moisture content detection of withered tea leaves was established through linear PLS (Partial Least Squares) and non-linear SVM (Support Vector Machine). The results showed correlation coefficients higher than 0.8 between the water contents and green component mean value (G), lightness component mean value (L*) and uniformity (U), which means that the extracted characteristics have great potential to predict the water contents. The performance parameters as correlation coefficient of prediction set (Rp), root-mean-square error of prediction (RMSEP), and relative standard deviation (RPD) of the SVM prediction model are 0.9314, 0.0411 and 1.8004, respectively. The non-linear modeling method can better describe the quantitative analytical relations between the image and water content. With superior generalization and robustness, the method would provide a new train of thought and theoretical basis for the online water content monitoring technology of automated production of black tea.
Plasmon excitations with a semi-integer angular momentum
Authors: Mendonça J. T. , Serbeto A. , Vieira J.
Published: May 2018

We provide an explicit model for a spin-1/2 quasi-particle, based on the superposition of plasmon excitations in a quantum plasmas with intrinsic orbital angular momentum. Such quasi-particle solutions can show remarkable similarities with single electrons moving in vacuum: they have spin-1/2, a finite rest mass, and a quantum dispersion. We also show that these quasi-particle solutions satisfy a criterium of energy minimum.
N-methyl D-aspartate receptor subtype 2B antagonist, Ro 25-6981, attenuates neuropathic pain by inhibiting postsynaptic density 95 expression
Authors: Huang Ling-Er , Guo Shao-Hui , Thitiseranee Lalita , Yang Yan , Zhou Yan-Feng , Yao Yong-Xing
Published: May 2018

Postsynaptic density-95 (PSD-95) is a synaptic scaffolding protein that plays a crucial role in the development of neuropathic pain. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. To address the role of PSD-95 in N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subtype 2B (NR2B) -mediated chronic pain, we investigated the relationship between PSD-95 activation and NR2B function in the spinal cord, by using a rat model of sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI). We demonstrate that the expression levels of total PSD-95 and cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), as well as phosphorylated NR2B, PSD-95, and CREB, in the spinal dorsal horn, and the interaction of NR2B with PSD-95 were increased in the CCI animals. Intrathecal injection of the selective NR2B antagonist Ro 25-6981 increased paw withdrawal latency, in a thermal pain assessment test. Moreover, repeated treatment with Ro 25-6981 markedly attenuated the thermal hypersensitivity, and inhibited the CCI-induced upregulation of PSD-95 in the spinal dorsal horn. Furthermore, intrathecal injection of the PSD-95 inhibitor strikingly reversed the thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia. Our results suggest that blocking of NR2B signaling in the spinal cord could be used as a therapeutic candidate for treating neuropathic pain.
Oviduct epithelium induces interferon-tau in bovine Day-4 embryos, which generates an anti-inflammatory response in immune cells
Authors: Talukder Anup K. , Rashid Mohammad B. , Yousef Mohamed S. , Kusama Kazuya , Shimizu Takashi , Shimada Masayuki , Suarez Susan S. , Imakawa Kazuhiko , Miyamoto Akio
Published: May 2018

Recent studies indicate that communication between the bovine embryo and the mother begins in the oviduct. Here, we aimed to investigate the effect of embryos on bovine oviducts for their immune responses using an in vitro model. First, zygotes were cultured with or without bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs) for 4 days, when embryos had reached the 16-cell stage. At that time, we detected interferon-tau (IFNT) in embryos co-cultured with BOECs, but not in embryos cultured alone. Next, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were incubated either in media from embryo alone cultures or from co-cultures of embryos with BOECs. The medium from embryo alone cultures did not modulate PBMCs gene expression; whereas the embryo-BOEC co-culture medium increased interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs: ISG15, OAS1, MX2), STAT1, PTGES and TGFB1 but suppressed IL17 expression in PBMCs. Both IFNT-treated BOEC culture medium and IFNT-supplemented fresh medium alone without BOEC, modulated PBMCs gene expressions similar to those by the embryo-BOEC co-culture medium. Further, specific antibody to IFNT neutralized the effect of embryo-BOEC co-culture medium on PBMCs gene expression. Our results indicate that BOECs stimulate embryos to produce IFNT, which then acts on immune cells to promote an anti-inflammatory response in the oviduct.
Mesenchymal stem cells and T cells in the formation of Tertiary Lymphoid Structures in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Dorraji S. Esmaeil , Hovd Aud-Malin K. , Kanapathippillai Premasany , Bakland Gunnstein , Eilertsen Gro Østli , Figenschau Stine L. , Fenton Kristin A.
Published: May 2018

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) develop in the kidneys of lupus-prone mice and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with lupus nephritis (LN). Here we investigated the presence of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the development of TLS in murine LN, as well as the role of human MSCs as lymphoid tissue organizer (LTo) cells on the activation of CD4+ T cells from three groups of donors including Healthy, SLE and LN patients. Mesenchymal stem like cells were detected within the pelvic wall and TLS in kidneys of lupus-prone mice. An increase in LTβ, CXCL13, CCL19, VCAM1 and ICAM1 gene expressions were detected during the development of murine LN. Human MSCs stimulated with the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β significantly increased the expression of CCL19, VCAM1, ICAM1, TNF-α, and IL-1β. Stimulated MSCs induced proliferation of CD4+ T cells, but an inhibitory effect was observed when in co-culture with non-stimulated MSCs. A contact dependent increase in Th2 and Th17 subsets were observed for T cells from the Healthy group after co-culture with stimulated MSCs. Our data suggest that tissue-specific or/and migratory MSCs could have pivotal roles as LTo cells in accelerating early inflammatory processes and initiating the formation of kidney specific TLS in chronic inflammatory conditions.
Benefits in radical mastectomy protocol: a randomized trial evaluating the use of regional anesthesia
Authors: Matsumoto Marcio , Flores Eva M. , Kimachi Pedro P. , Gouveia Flavia V. , Kuroki Mayra A. , Barros Alfredo C. S. D. , Sampaio Marcelo M. C. , Andrade Felipe E. M. , Valverde João , Abrantes Eduardo F. , Simões Claudia M. , Pagano Rosana L. , Martinez Raquel C. R.
Published: May 2018

Surgery is the first-line treatment for early, localized, or operable breast cancer. Regional anesthesia during mastectomy may offer the prevention of postoperative pain. One potential protocol is the combination of serratus anterior plane block (SAM block) with pectoral nerve block I (PECS I), but the results and potential benefits are limited. Our study compared general anesthesia with or without SAM block + PECS I during radical mastectomy with axillary node dissection and breast reconstruction using evaluations of pain, opioid consumption, side effects and serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and IL-10. This is a prospective, randomized controlled trial. Fifty patients were randomized to general anesthesia only or general anesthesia associated with SAM block + PECS I (25 per group). The association of SAM block + PECS I with general anesthesia reduced intraoperative fentanyl consumption, morphine use and visual analog pain scale scores in the post-anesthetic care unit (PACU) and at 24 h after surgery. In addition, the anesthetic protocol decreased side effects and sedation 24 h after surgery compared to patients who underwent general anesthesia only. IL-6 levels increased after the surgery compared to baseline levels in both groups, and no differences in IL-10 and IL-1 beta levels were observed. Our protocol improved the outcomes of mastectomy, which highlight the importance of improving mastectomy protocols and focusing on the benefits of regional anesthesia.
Genetic Diversity Analysis Reveals Genetic Differentiation and Strong Population Structure in Calotropis Plants
Authors: Muriira Nkatha G. , Muchugi Alice , Yu Anmin , Xu Jianchu , Liu Aizhong
Published: May 2018

The genus Calotropis (Asclepiadaceae) is comprised of two species, C. gigantea and C. procera, which both show significant economic potential for use of their seed fibers in the textile industry, and of their bioactive compounds as new medicinal resources. The available wild-sourced germplasm contains limited genetic information that restricts further germplasm exploration for the purposes of domestication. We here developed twenty novel EST-SSR markers and applied them to assess genetic diversity, population structure and differentiation within Calotropis. The polymorphic information index of these markers ranged from 0.102 to 0.800; indicating that they are highly informative. Moderate genetic diversity was revealed in both species, with no difference between species in the amount of genetic diversity. Population structure analysis suggested five main genetic groups (K = 5) and relatively high genetic differentiation (FST = 0.528) between the two species. Mantel test analysis showed strong correlation between geographical and genetic distance in C. procera (r = 0.875, p = 0.020) while C. gigantea showed no such correlation (r = 0.390, p = 0.210). This study provides novel insights into the genetic diversity and population structure of Calotropis, which will promote further resource utilization and the development of genetic improvement strategies for Calotropis.
Risk factors of treatment failure and 30-day mortality in patients with bacteremia due to MRSA with reduced vancomycin susceptibility
Authors: Yang Chien-Chang , Sy Cheng-Len , Huang Yhu-Chering , Shie Shian-Sen , Shu Jwu-Ching , Hsieh Pang-Hsin , Hsiao Ching-Hsi , Chen Chih-Jung
Published: May 2018

Bacteremia caused by MRSA with reduced vancomycin susceptibility (MRSA-RVS) frequently resulted in treatment failure and mortality. The relation of bacterial factors and unfavorable outcomes remains controversial. We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of patients with bacteremia caused by MRSA with vancomycin MIC = 2 mg/L from 2009 to 2012. The significance of bacterial genotypes, agr function and heterogeneous vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (hIVSA) phenotype in predicting outcomes were determined after clinical covariates adjustment with multivariate analysis. A total of 147 patients with mean age of 63.5 (±18.1) years were included. Seventy-nine (53.7%) patients failed treatment. Forty-seven (31.9%) patients died within 30 days of onset of MRSA bacteremia. The Charlson index, Pitt bacteremia score and definitive antibiotic regimen were independent factors significantly associated with either treatment failure or mortality. The hVISA phenotype was a potential risk factor predicting treatment failure (adjusted odds ratio 2.420, 95% confidence interval 0.946–6.191, P = 0.0652). No bacterial factors were significantly associated with 30-day mortality. In conclusion, the comorbidities, disease severity and antibiotic regimen remained the most relevant factors predicting treatment failure and 30-day mortality in patients with MRSA-RVS bacteremia. hIVSA phenotype was the only bacterial factor potentially associated with unfavorable outcome in this cohort.
Functional Proteomic Profiling of Secreted Serine Proteases in Health and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Denadai-Souza Alexandre , Bonnart Chrystelle , Tapias Núria Solà , Marcellin Marlène , Gilmore Brendan , Alric Laurent , Bonnet Delphine , Burlet-Schiltz Odile , Hollenberg Morley D. , Vergnolle Nathalie , Deraison Céline
Published: May 2018

While proteases are essential in gastrointestinal physiology, accumulating evidence indicates that dysregulated proteolysis plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Nonetheless, the identity of overactive proteases released by human colonic mucosa remains largely unknown. Studies of protease abundance have primarily investigated expression profiles, not taking into account their enzymatic activity. Herein we have used serine protease-targeted activity-based probes (ABPs) coupled with mass spectral analysis to identify active forms of proteases secreted by the colonic mucosa of healthy controls and IBD patients. Profiling of (Pro-Lys)-ABP bound proteases revealed that most of hyperactive proteases from IBD secretome are clustered at 28-kDa. We identified seven active proteases: the serine proteases cathepsin G, plasma kallikrein, plasmin, tryptase, chymotrypsin-like elastase 3 A, and thrombin and the aminopeptidase B. Only cathepsin G and thrombin were overactive in supernatants from IBD patient tissues compared to healthy controls. Gene expression analysis highlighted the transcription of genes encoding these proteases into intestinal mucosae. The functional ABP-targeted proteomic approach that we have used to identify active proteases in human colonic samples bears directly on the understanding of the role these enzymes may play in the pathophysiology of IBD.
Identification of Mycobacterium chimaera in heater-cooler units in China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxia , Lin Ji , Feng Yu , Wang Xiaohui , McNally Alan , Zong Zhiyong
Published: May 2018

A global outbreak of infections due to Mycobacterium chimaera has been linked to the LivaNova (formerly Sorin) 3 T heater-cooler units (HCUs). We performed a study to investigate M. chimaera from HCUs in China. Water samples were collected from all 3 T HCUs (n = 5) at our hospital in May 2017. Mycobacteria isolates were subjected to genome sequencing using the HiSeq X10 Sequencer. Species were identified based on average nucleotide identity with M. chimaera type strain DSM 44623T. Paired-end reads of all M. chimaera genomes were retrieved from the SRA database and, together with our isolates, were mapped against the chromosome of M. chimaera reference strain ZUERICH-1 to call SNPs. Mycobacteria grew from three HCUs manufactured in 2009 but not from the two in 2016. The three isolates were identified as M. chimaera and differed from each other by 4 to 6 SNPs, and from ZUERICH-1 by 7 to 10 SNPs. The three isolates belonged to the subgroup 1.1 and were most closely related to strains of the subgroup 1.1 from HCUs or patients in Europe, Australia/New Zealand and USA, suggesting the same common source. This is the first report of M. chimaera from HCUs in China.
Electronic states of deep trap levels in a-plane GaN templates grown on r-plane sapphire by HVPE
Authors: Lee Moonsang , Vu Thi Kim Oanh , Lee Kyoung Su , Kim Eun Kyu , Park Sungsoo
Published: May 2018

We report on the defect states incorporated in a-plane GaN crystals grown on r-plane sapphire substrates by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE), using deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS). Two defect states were observed at 0.2 eV and 0.55 eV below the conduction band minimum with defect densities of 5 × 1012/cm3 and 4.7 × 1013/cm3, respectively. The size of capture cross section, non-linear relation of trap densities from the depth profile, filling pulse width, and PL measurements indicated that the electronic deep trap levels in a-plane GaN on r-plane sapphire by HVPE originated from non-interacting point defects such as NGa, complex defects involving Si, O, or C, and VGa-related centres. Even though the a-plane GaN templates were grown by HVPE with high growth rates, the electronic deep trap characteristics are comparable to those of a-plane GaN layers of high crystal quality grown by MOCVD. This study prove that the growth of a-plane GaN templates on r-plane sapphire by HVPE is a promising method to obtain a-plane GaN layers efficiently and economically without the degradation of electrical characteristics.
Difructose dianhydride improves intestinal calcium absorption, wound healing, and barrier function
Authors: Lee Sang In , Kim In Ho
Published: May 2018

The gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is critical for nutrient absorption and is an important barrier against harmful pathogens and antigens. Difructose anhydrides (DFA)-IVs are nondigestible disaccharides that enhance calcium and iron absorption by affecting the intestinal epithelial tissue. However, their effects on intestinal functions are not fully understood. In this study, we performed a feeding trial and found that dietary DFA-IVs improved growth performance, relative breast muscle and liver weight, and digestibility and blood calcium and iron concentrations in broilers. Additionally, dietary DFA-IVs increased expression of genes related to growth in the liver, muscle development, and absorption of calcium and iron in the intestine. In vitro experiments revealed that DFA-IV treatment improved intestinal wound-healing (migration, proliferation, and differentiation) after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge in small intestinal epithelial cells. Furthermore, DFA-IV treatment enhanced the intestinal barrier function, which increased the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and decreased the permeability of fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FD-4) after LPS challenge in small intestinal epithelial cells. Collectively, these data indicate that DFA-IV could be used as a feed additive to enhance calcium and iron absorption by affecting the intestinal wound healing and permeability. This study may help improve our understanding of the molecular effects of DFA-IV on the intestine.
mRNA treatment produces sustained expression of enzymatically active human ADAMTS13 in mice
Authors: Liu-Chen Susan , Connolly Brendan , Cheng Lei , Subramanian Romesh R. , Han Zhaozhong
Published: May 2018

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is primarily caused by deficiency of ADAMTS13 within the blood stream due to either genetic defects or presence of inhibitory autoantibodies. Preclinical and clinical studies suggest that enzyme replacement therapy with recombinant human ADAMTS13 protein (rhADAMTS13) is effective and safe in treatment of TTP. However, frequent dosing would be required due to the relatively short half-life of rhADAMTS13 in circulation as well as the presence of inhibitory autoantibodies that collectively result in the poor pharmacological profile of rhADAMTS13. With technical breakthroughs in exploring mRNA as therapeutics, we hypothesized that restoration of ADAMTS13 activity for a prolonged duration of time can be achieved through systemic dosing of mRNA, wherein the dosed mRNA would utilize hepatic cells as bioreactors for continuous production of ADAMTS13. To test this hypothesis, mRNA encoding human ADAMTS13 WT or an ADAMTS13 variant, that had demonstrated resistance to predominant clinical TTP autoantibodies, was formulated in lipid nano-particles for liver-targeted delivery. In both ADAMTS13-sufficient and -deficient mice, a single dose of the formulated mRNAs at 1 mg/kg resulted in expression of hADAMTS13 at or above therapeutically relevant levels in mice for up to five days. This proof-of-concept study suggests that mRNA therapy could provide a novel approach for TTP treatment.
Ultra-broadband EPR spectroscopy in field and frequency domains
Authors: Neugebauer P. , Bloos D. , Marx R. , Lutz P. , Kern M. , Aguilà D. , Vaverka J. , Laguta O. , Dietrich C. , Clérac R. , van Slageren J.
Published: May 2018

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is a powerful technique to investigate the electronic and magnetic properties of a wide range of materials.
Carboxymethyl pachyman (CMP) reduces intestinal mucositis and regulates the intestinal microflora in 5-fluorouracil-treated CT26 tumour-bearing mice
Authors: Wang Canhong , Yang Shuxian , Gao Li , Wang Lili , Cao Li
Published: May 2018

The compound 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is the first choice chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), but intestinal mucositis is a primary limiting factor in anticancer therapy.
Effects of dietary β-glucan supplementation on growth performance and immunological and metabolic parameters of weaned pigs administered with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Wu Cheng , Xu Qin , Wang Ru , Qin Linlin , Peng Xie , Hu Liang , Liu Yan , Fang Zhengfeng , Lin Yan , Xu Shengyu , Feng Bin , Li Jian , Wu De , Che Lianqiang
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of dietary β-glucan (BG) supplementation on growth performance and blood parameters in weaned pigs administered with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Citrus peel extracts attenuated obesity and modulated gut microbiota in mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity
Authors: Tung Yen-Chen , Chang Wei-Tien , Li Shiming , Wu Jia-Ching , Badmeav Vladimir , Ho Chi-Tang , Pan Min-Hsiung
Published: May 2018

Polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) and hydroxyl PMFs (HOPMFs) are mainly found in citrus peel and have shown anti-obesity potential inin vitroandin vivostudies.
Microbial small molecules – weapons of plant subversion
Authors: Stringlis Ioannis A. , Zhang Hao , Pieterse Corné M. J. , Bolton Melvin D. , de Jonge Ronnie
Published: May 2018

Microbial small molecules subvert plant immunity, and alter plant physiology and development.
Synthesis of nickel germanide (Ge12Ni19) nanoparticles for durable hydrogen evolution reaction in acid solutions
Authors: Chen Jee-Yee , Jheng Shao-Lou , Tuan Hsing-Yu
Published: May 2018

Ge12Ni19nanoparticles were synthesized and exhibited high electrocatalytic activity and stability for the HER in acidic solution.
Metal-free heterogeneous and mesoporous biogenic graphene-oxide nanoparticle-catalyzed synthesis of bioactive benzylpyrazolyl coumarin derivatives
Authors: Siddiqui T. A. J. , Ghule Balaji G. , Shaikh Shoyebmohamad , Shinde Pritamkumar V. , Gunturu Krishna Chaitanya , Zubaidha P. K. , Yun Je Moon , O'Dwyer Colm , Mane Rajaram S. , Kim Kwang Ho
Published: May 2018

Graphene oxide catalyst, obtained by table sugar carbonization, is envisaged for the synthesis of bio-active benzylpyrazolyl coumarin derivatives with considerable yield and remarkable re-usability.
Formation of Laves phases in buoyancy matched hard sphere suspensions
Authors: Schaertl N. , Botin D. , Palberg T. , Bartsch E.
Published: May 2018

A hard-sphere like colloidal MgZn2 Laves crystal phase transforms into a random stacked MgCu2-like structure at higher packing fractions indicating a new route to photonic crystals.
Delivery of tacrolimus with cationic lipid-assisted nanoparticles for ulcerative colitis therapy
Authors: Wang Ji-Long , Gan Yun-Jiu , Iqbal Shoaib , Jiang Wei , Yuan You-Yong , Wang Jun
Published: May 2018

FK506-loaded cationic-assisted nanoparticles (CLANs) accumulate in the colon and enhance the therapy of DSS-induced colitis.
Staudinger reaction using 2,6-dichlorophenyl azide derivatives for robust aza-ylide formation applicable to bioconjugation in living cells
Authors: Meguro Tomohiro , Terashima Norikazu , Ito Harumi , Koike Yuka , Kii Isao , Yoshida Suguru , Hosoya Takamitsu
Published: May 2018

Efficient formation of water- and air-stable aza-ylides has been achieved by the Staudinger reaction. The reaction proceeds rapidly and has been successfully applied to chemical modification of proteins in living cells.
A novel three-fluorophore system as a ratiometric sensor for multiple protease detection
Authors: Okorochenkova Yana , Porubský Martin , Benická Sandra , Hlaváč Jan
Published: May 2018

A ratiometric fluorescent system for the detection of two proteases solely or in their mixture.
A luminescent [Pd4Ru8]24+ supramolecular cage
Authors: Rota Martir Diego , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Escudero Daniel , Jacquemin Denis , Warriner Stuart L. , Zysman-Colman Eli
Published: May 2018

A phosphorescent cage of the form [Pd4Ru8]24+ is reported.
Radio-luminescence spectral features and fast emission in hafnium dioxide nanocrystals
Authors: Villa I. , Lauria A. , Moretti F. , Fasoli M. , Dujardin C. , Niederberger M. , Vedda A.
Published: May 2018

A spectroscopic study of HfO2 radio-luminescence is reported, together with its scintillation properties revealing the occurrence of a fast emission.
Enhanced fluorescence of phthalimide compounds induced by the incorporation of electron-donating alicyclic amino groups
Authors: Orita Ryoji , Franckevičius Marius , Vyšniauskas Aurimas , Gulbinas Vidmantas , Sugiyama Haruki , Uekusa Hidehiro , Kanosue Kenta , Ishige Ryohei , Ando Shinji
Published: May 2018

A significant difference in fluorescence properties between 3- and 4-substituted phthalimides demonstrates the formation of excited TICT and planar ICT states, respectively.
Direct epoxidation of propene on silylated Au–Ti catalysts: a study on silylation procedures and the effect on propane formation
Authors: Kanungo S. , Keshri K. S. , Hensen E. J. M. , Chowdhury B. , Schouten J. C. , Neira d'Angelo M. F.
Published: May 2018

Silylation was employed on an active Au/Ti–SiO2 catalyst, in order to enhance catalyst performance for the direct epoxidation of propene to propene oxide (PO) using H2 and O2.
Synthesis, structure, and polymorphic transitions of praseodymium(iii) and neodymium(iii) borohydride, Pr(BH4)3 and Nd(BH4)3
Authors: Payandeh GharibDoust SeyedHosein , Heere Michael , Nervi Carlo , Sørby Magnus H. , Hauback Bjørn C. , Jensen Torben R.
Published: May 2018

In this work, praseodymium(iii) borohydride, Pr(BH4)3, and an isotopically enriched analogue, Pr(11BD4)3, are prepared by a new route via a solvate complex, Pr(11BD4)3S(CH3)2.
Direct coating of a g-C3N4 layer onto one-dimensional TiO2 nanocluster/nanorod films for photoactive applications
Authors: Kang Suhee , Jang Joonyoung , Pawar Rajendra C. , Ahn Sunghoon , Lee Caroline Sunyong
Published: May 2018

We report highly stable photoanode, coating of metal-free graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) onto titanium dioxide(TiO2) nanorods with secondary nanoclusters.
Emerging investigators series: comparative study of naproxen degradation by the UV/chlorine and the UV/H2O2 advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Pan Mingwei , Wu Zihao , Tang Changyuan , Guo Kaiheng , Cao Yingjie , Fang Jingyun
Published: May 2018

The UV/chlorine and UV/H2O2 AOPs on the degradation of naproxen were compared. The efficiency of naproxen was much higher by UV/chlorine compared to UV/H2O2 under all the tested conditions. ClO˙ and CO3˙− played important roles in the degradation of naproxen.
Potential use of MCR-ALS for the identification of coeliac-related biochemical changes in hyperspectral Raman maps from pediatric intestinal biopsies
Authors: Fornasaro Stefano , Vicario Annalisa , De Leo Luigina , Bonifacio Alois , Not Tarcisio , Sergo Valter
Published: May 2018

Raman hyperspectral imaging is an emerging practice in biological and biomedical research for label free analysis of tissues and cells.
A biomimetic microfluidic model to study signalling between endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells under hemodynamic conditions
Authors: van Engeland Nicole C. A. , Pollet Andreas M. A. O. , den Toonder Jaap M. J. , Bouten Carlijn V. C. , Stassen Oscar M. J. A. , Sahlgren Cecilia M.
Published: May 2018

Cell signalling and mechanics influence vascular pathophysiology and there is an increasing demand forin vitromodel systems that enable examination of signalling between vascular cells under hemodynamic conditions.
Metal-free hydrogen transfer reduction of 3-hydroxy-3-indolyloxindoles: a novel method for the synthesis of 3,3′-biindolin-2-ones
Authors: Liu Guofeng , Zhang Heng , Guan Xukai , Gao Jigang , Qin Xiangshuo , Zhang Guangliang , Zhang Suoqin
Published: May 2018

A new approach for the synthesis of 3,3′-biindolin-2-ones has been successfully performed with high yield following a one-step strategy starting from 3-hydroxy-3-indolyloxindoles.
Selective hydrazine sensor fabrication with facile low-dimensional Fe2O3/CeO2nanocubes
Authors: Rahman Mohammed M. , Alam M. M. , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: May 2018

Here, the binary-doped metal oxides of Fe2O3/CeO2nanocubes were prepared using reliable hydrothermal process, which is applied to fabricate an efficient and selective hydrazine chemical sensor shows good analytical sensing performances as well as validated the sensor prove with the environmental and extracted real samples.
Exceptional photoconductivity of poly(3-hexylthiophene) fibers through in situ encapsulation of molybdenum disulfide quantum dots
Authors: Nair Vishnu , Kumar Anil , Subramaniam Chandramouli
Published: May 2018

80% enhancement in the photoconductivity of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) by in situ incorporation of MoS2 quantum dots (QDs).
Cu atomic chains supported on β-borophene sheets for effective CO2electroreduction
Authors: Shen Haoming , Li Yawei , Sun Qiang
Published: May 2018

Cu atomic chains supported on β-borophene sheets can break the scaling relationship and enhance CO2electroreduction.
Coke-resistant defect-confined Ni-based nanosheet-like catalysts derived from halloysites for CO2 reforming of methane
Authors: Lu Meirong , Fang Jianhui , Han Lupeng , Faungnawakij Kajornsak , Li Hongrui , Cai Sixiang , Shi Liyi , Jiang Hong , Zhang Dengsong
Published: May 2018

Coke-resistant defect-confined Ni-based nanosheet-like catalysts derived from halloysites were developed for CO2 reforming of methane.
Three-dimensional porous microspheres comprising hollow Fe2O3 nanorods/CNT building blocks with superior electrochemical performance for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Park Seung-Keun , Park Gi Dae , Kang Yun Chan
Published: May 2018

Three-dimensional hollow Fe2O3 nanorod/CNT microspheres for lithium ion batteries were successfully prepared by a novel strategy.
Designing shape anisotropic SmCo5 particles by chemical synthesis to reveal the morphological evolution mechanism
Authors: Ma Zhenhui , Yue Ming , Wu Qiong , Li Chenglin , Yu Yongsheng
Published: May 2018

In this work, we describe a new protocol to synthesize SmCo5 single crystal particles with remarkable shape anisotropy (hexagonal and rodlike), which exhibit a giant coercivity of 36.6 kOe and a high Mr/Ms value of 0.95 after an alignment.
High-performance stretchable photodetector based on CH3NH3PbI3 microwires and graphene
Authors: Ding Jie , Fang Huajing , Lian Zhipeng , Lv Qianrui , Sun Jia-Lin , Yan Qingfeng
Published: May 2018

A stretchable photodetector based on CH3NH3PbI3 microwires was prepared by integrating CH3NH3PbI3 microwires on a prestrained graphene substrate.
Design of RGD–ATWLPPR peptide conjugates for the dual targeting of αVβ3 integrin and neuropilin-1
Authors: Thoreau Fabien , Vanwonterghem Laetitia , Henry Maxime , Coll Jean-Luc , Boturyn Didier
Published: May 2018

A dual targeting system provides an enhanced tumour-to-background ratio.
Biosynthesis of the teleocidin-type terpenoid indole alkaloids
Authors: Awakawa Takayoshi , Abe Ikuro
Published: May 2018

Teleocidin B is a terpenoid indole alkaloid with unique structures including indolactam and cyclic terpenoid, and is a strong protein kinase C activator. In this review, we describe the isolation and biosynthetic studies of teleocidins.
Synthesis of N-alkylated 2-pyridones through Pummerer type reactions of activated sulfoxides and 2-fluoropyridine derivatives
Authors: Hu Gang , Xu Jiaxi , Li Pingfan
Published: May 2018

N-Alkylated 2-pyridone products were obtained in good to excellent yields through a one-pot procedure involving either normal or interrupted Pummerer reactions between triflic anhydride activated sulfoxides and 2-fluoropyridine derivatives, followed by hydrolysis.