bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrodeposition of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on Precasted Carbon Nanoparticles Film for Electrochemical Investigation of anti‐HIV Drug Nevirapine
Authors: Shahrokhian Saeed , Kohansal Razieh , Ghalkhani Masoumeh , Amini Mohammad K.
Published: June 2015

This work describes the development of a novel electrochemical sensor based on electrodeposition of copper oxide nanoparticles onto carbon nanoparticle (CNP) film modified electrode for the analysis of the anti‐HIV drug, nevirapine (NEV). The electrochemical experiments were performed using linear sweep and cyclic voltammetry. Atomic force microscopy was applied for surface characterization of the deposited modifier film (CuO‐CNP) on glassy carbon electrode (GCE). No oxidation peak was observed for NEV on the bare GCE, but both CNP‐GCE and CuO‐CNP‐GCE showed a distinctive anodic response towards NEV with considerable enhancement (276‐fold and 350‐fold, respectively) compared to CuO‐GCE. The mechanism of the electrocatalytic process on the modified electrode surface was investigated by cyclic and linear sweep voltammetry at various potential sweep rates and pHs of the buffer solutions. The modified electrode exhibited linear dynamic range in three concentration intervals (0.1–0.8, 1–10 and 10–100 µM) with a detection limit of 66 nM. The stability, reproducibility, and repetitive usability exhibited by the proposed modified electrode are good enough to make it a suitable sensor for the determination of NEV in real samples with complex matrices such as human blood serum.
Bulk Modification of Carbon Paste Electrode with Bi2O3 Nanoparticles and Its Application as an Electrochemical Sensor for Selective Sensing of AntiHIV Drug Nevirapine
Authors: Teradal Nagappa L. , Seetharamappa J.
Published: June 2015

Bi2O3 nanoparticles were synthesized by solution combustion method and utilized for fabrication of an electrochemical sensor [carbon paste electrode modified with Bi2O3 (CPE‐Bi2O3)] for nevirapine (NVP). Electrode materials were characterized by XRD, FTIR, TG‐DTA, AFM and SEM‐EDS methods. CPE‐Bi2O3 was electroreduced (Er) in KOH in the potential range of −1.3–0 V to obtain CPE‐ErBi2O3. CPE‐ErBi2O3 exhibited electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of NVP. Under optimized conditions, linearity between the peak current and NVP concentration was observed in the range of 0.05–50 µM. Further, the sensor was used for the assay of NVP in tablets and biological samples.
Voltammetric Determination of Neonicotinoid Pesticides at Disposable Screen‐Printed Sensors Featuring a Sputtered Bismuth Electrode
Authors: Lezi Nikolitsa , Economou Anastasios
Published: June 2015

This work reports the determination of 5 neonicotinoid pesticides (Clothianidin, Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam, Nitenpyram and Dinotefuran) in water samples by cathodic differential pulse (DP) voltammetry at screen‐printed disposable sensors featuring a sputtered bismuth thick‐film working electrode, a Ag reference electrode and a carbon counter electrode. The performance of the bismuth thick‐film electrodes was compared to that of a home‐made bismuth thin‐film electrode and a bismuth‐bulk electrode. The electrodes were further characterized by electrochemical and optical techniques. The effect of the pH of the supporting electrolyte on the DP reduction currents of the 5 pesticides was studied. The limits of quantification (LOQs) in 4 water matrices (distilled water, tap water, mineral water and surface water) were in the range 0.76 to 2.10 mg L−1 but severe matrix effects were observed in the analysis of mineral and, especially, surface water samples. Using a solid‐phase extraction (SPE) procedure using Lichrolut EN cartridges and elution with methanol, the matrix effects were substantially reduced and the LOQs were in the range 9 to 17 µg L−1. The recoveries of surface water samples spiked with the 5 target neonicotinoids at two concentration levels (20 and 50 µg L−1) were in the range 89 to 109 % and the % relative standard deviations ranged from 4.3 to 7.2 %.
Recent Progress on the Development of Biofuel Cells for Self‐Powered Electrochemical Biosensing and Logic Biosensing: A Review
Authors: Zhou Ming
Published: June 2015

Biofuel cells (BFCs) based on enzymes and microorganisms have been recently received considerable attention because they are recognized as an attractive type of energy conversion technology. In addition to the research activities related to the application of BFCs as power source, we have witnessed recently a growing interest in using BFCs for self‐powered electrochemical biosensing and electrochemical logic biosensing applications. Compared with traditional biosensors, one of the most significant advantages of the BFCs‐based self‐powered electrochemical biosensors and logic biosensors is their ability to detect targets integrated with chemical‐to‐electrochemical energy transformation, thus obviating the requirement of external power sources. Following my previous review (Electroanalysis­ 2012, 24, 197–209), the present review summarizes, discusses and updates the most recent progress and latest advances on the design and construction of BFCs‐based self‐powered electrochemical biosensors and logic biosensors. In addition to the traditional approaches based on substrate effect, inhibition effect, blocking effect and gene regulation effect for BFCs‐based self‐powered electrochemical biosensors and logic biosensors design, some new principles including enzyme effect, co‐stabilization effect, competition effect and hybrid effect are summarized and discussed by me in details. The outlook and recommendation of future directions of BFCs‐based self‐powered electrochemical biosensors and logic biosensors are discussed in the end.
Nanomolar Determination of Methyldopa in the Presence of Large Amounts of Hydrochlorothiazide Using a Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Graphene Oxide Nanosheets and 3‐(4′‐Amino‐3′‐hydroxy‐biphenyl‐4‐yl)‐acrylic Acid
Authors: Mohammadi Seyed Zia , Beitollahi Hadi , Jasemi Malihe , Akbari Ali
Published: June 2015

A novel electrochemical sensor for sensitive detection of methyldopa at physiological pH was developed by the bulk modification of carbon paste electrode (CPE) with graphene oxide nanosheets and 3‐(4′‐amino‐3′‐hydroxy‐biphenyl‐4‐yl)‐acrylic acid (3,′AA). Applying square wave voltammetry (SWV), in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) of pH 7.0, the oxidation current increased linearly with two concentration intervals of methyldopa, one is 1.0×10−8–1.0×10−6 M and the other is 1.0×10−6–4.5×10−5 M. The detection limit (3σ) obtained by SWV was 9.0 nM. The modified electrode was successfully applied for simultaneous determination of methyldopa and hydrochlorothiazide. Finally, the proposed method was applied to the determination of methyldopa and hydrochlorothiazide in some real samples.
Effect of Fabrication Methodology on Morphology, Conductivity, and Thermal‐Energy Storage of a Stearic Acid/Doped‐Polyaniline Phase‐Change Material
Authors: Wang Yi , Ji Hui , Zhang Ting , Shi Huan , Zhang Deyi , Feng Huixia
Published: June 2015

To develop a new composite with features of thermal‐energy storage and electrical conductivity, stearic acid (SA)/doped polyaniline (PANI) composite phase‐change materials (PCMs) were fabricated using SA as a thermal‐energy storage material and doped PANI as the support material. The influence of the synthetic parameters on the morphology, conductivity, and thermal‐energy storage abilities of SA/doped‐PANI was investigated. The results show that doped PANI has good affinity for SA because hydrogen bonding leads to the formation of a uniform and close coating. Nuclei of doped PANI grew on the SA surface and retained its original morphological structure. The morphology of SA/doped‐PANI can be regulated by adjusting the reaction conditions. SA in the SA/doped‐PANI acts as a structure‐directing agent, thermal‐energy storage medium, and co‐doping agent. The differential scanning calorimetry results indicate that the thermal‐energy storage performance of SA/doped‐PANI will be enhanced if a low reaction temperature is used with oil‐soluble benzoyl peroxide as the oxidant and sulfamic acid as the doping acid.
Maximum Power Point Tracking Control Based on a Nonlinear Backstepping Approach for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator Wind Energy Conversion System Connected to a Utility Grid
Authors: Errami Youssef , Ouassaid Mohammed , Cherkaoui Mohamed , Maaroufi Mohamed
Published: June 2015

With the high penetration of wind energy resources in the electric grid, the effectiveness of variable‐speed wind energy conversion systems (WECS) can be enhanced considerably by a careful choice of the control strategy. This paper presents a control strategy to track the maximum power point for a wind power generation system. This system is based on a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) wind turbine system with full‐power back‐to‐back converters and connected to a utility grid. The system organization and control approach are presented. The controller is based on the nonlinear backstepping approach, which is robust to parameter uncertainties. The generator‐side converter is employed to regulate the velocity of the PMSG with maximum power point tracking, and the grid‐side converter is used to control the dc‐link voltage and to regulate the power factor with a varying wind velocity. The proposed nonlinear backstepping approach is used to control both the PMSG and grid‐side converters of a WECS. By using Lyapunov analysis, the stability of the regulators is assured. The proposed structure and control methodology are verified through Matlab simulations. Furthermore, a comparison of simulation results based on the proposed backstepping algorithm and conventional proportional integral controller is provided.
Anharmonic Effect of the Unimolecular Dissociation of HFCO and DFCO
Authors: Zhong Jingjun , Wang Weiwen , Li Qian , Xia Wenwen , Shao Ying , Yao Li , Lin S. H.
Published: June 2015

The unimolecular reactions of HFCO and DFCO have been studied by RRKM theory. The harmonic and anharmonic rate constants of the HFCO and DFCO decompositions have been calculated. The harmonic and anharmonic rate constants increase with the increasing temperatures and total energies both in the canonical and microcanonical systems. The comparison shows that the rate constants of DFCO decomposition are lower than that of the HFCO decomposition. The anharmonic effect and isotope effect have also been investigated. It has been found that the anharmonic effect and isotope effect are not significant either in the canonical or microcanonical system for all the reactions.
Effect of the Reaction Alkaline Environment on the Morphology and Spectroscopic Characterizations of ZnO‐Graphene Composite
Authors: Wu Chunxia , He Zijuan , Tian Zhengshan , Song Zelin , Song Xing
Published: June 2015

ZnO‐graphene composite was synthesized by using graphene oxide (GO), zinc acetate (Zn(CH3COO)2⋅2H2O), sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ethylene glycol as precursors through a one‐pot hydrothermal process. The concentration of NaOH solution had an important effect on the morphology, defects and spectroscopic characterizations of the ZnO‐graphene composite. With the increase of concentration of NaOH solution, the morphology of the composite changed significantly. The morphological evolution was analyzed through SEM and TEM observations, and the Raman and PL spectral variations were discussed.
Scaled Fourier Transforms and Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle
Authors: Kouri Donald J.
Published: June 2015

At the recent QSCP XIX, the author claimed a procedure of using a scaled Fourier transform (the scaling being determined by the detailed interaction and particle mass for a harmonic oscillator) to achieve simultaneous resolution of position and momentum greater than the standard Heisenberg value of 1/2. The procedure, while correct for digital signal processing, is, in fact, invalid for quantum mechanics. The purpose of this paper is simply to give the correct analysis of the uncertainty product, thereby clarifying the error made.
Review of reported adverse drug reactions in a local health facility
Authors: Ierano Courtney , Morrissey Hana , Ball Patrick , Nielsen Sharon
Published: June 2015

Background

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are common, causing significant morbidity and mortality. In 2011, there were approximately 247 000 reports of suspected ADRs reported to the Australian Therapeutics Goods Administration. It has been reported that in 2003, 2–4% of all hospital admissions were medication‐related, and up to 75% of these were thought to be potentially preventable, costing the health system approximately $400 million.

Aim

To review the ADRs reported in a rural hospital and estimate the proportion that could have been predicted and/or prevented so as to inform future prevention strategies.

Method

This was a retrospective observational study conducted in a rural hospital in Australia. The study involved systematic review of the cases of patients admitted during a 1‐month period. The prevalence of ADRs, the clinical history, the causative agent and the type of reaction were recorded. The preventability, predictability and severity of the ADRs were evaluated using validated instruments.

Results

There were 735 patients admitted to hospital during the data collection period, and the cases of 200 renal dialysis patients were excluded from further analysis on the basis of the atypical pattern of admissions for this group. Data from the remaining 535 patients were reviewed, and in 118 cases, these did not have a National Inpatient Medication Chart as they were admitted to the emergency department or day surgery unit. In total, 417 National Inpatient Medication Charts were available for further analysis. There were recorded ADRs in 90 cases, and on some charts multiple ADRs were recorded. A total of 150 recorded ADRs were investigated, and ultimately 82% were considered to have been predictable and 97% were considered to be preventable.

Conclusion

This research suggests that ADRs are often both predictable and preventable. Further measures need to be implemented to ensure correct recording of ADRs, to inform appropriate patient management and to minimise associated harm and optimise health outcomes.
Antidepressant activity of fingolimod in mice
Authors: di Nuzzo Luigi , Orlando Rosamaria , Tognoli Cristina , Di Pietro Paola , Bertini Giuseppe , Miele Jessica , Bucci Domenico , Motolese Marta , Scaccianoce Sergio , Caruso Alessandra , Mauro Gianluca , De Lucia Carmine , Battaglia Giuseppe , Bruno Valeria , Fabene Paolo Francesco , Nicoletti Ferdinando
Published: June 2015

Recent findings indicate that fingolimod, the first oral drug approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), acts as a direct inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and enhances the production of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the CNS. Both mechanisms are relevant to the pathophysiology and treatment of major depression. We examined the antidepressant activity of fingolimod in mice subjected to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS), a model of reactive depression endowed with face and pharmacological validity. Chronic treatment with fingolimod (3 mg kg−1, i.p., once a day for 4 weeks) reduced the immobility time in the forced swim test (FST) in a large proportion of CUS mice. This treatment also caused anxiogenic‐like effects in the social interaction test without affecting anxiety‐like behavior in the elevated plus maze or spatial learning in the water maze. CUS mice showed reduced BDNF levels and enhanced HDAC2 levels in the hippocampus. These changes were reversed by fingolimod exclusively in mice that showed a behavioral response to the drug in the FST. Fingolimod treatment also enhanced H3 histone K14‐acetylation and adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus of CUS mice. Fingolimod did not affect most of the parameters we have tested in unstressed control mice. The antidepressant‐like activity of fingolimod was confirmed in mice chronically treated with corticosterone. These findings show for the first time that fingolimod exerts antidepressant‐like effect acting in a “disease‐dependent” manner, and raise the interesting possibility that the drug could relieve depressive symptoms in MS patients independently of its disease‐modifying effect on MS.
Saroglitazar, a novel PPARα/γ agonist with predominant PPARα activity, shows lipid‐lowering and insulin‐sensitizing effects in preclinical models
Authors: Jain Mukul R. , Giri Suresh R. , Trivedi Chitrang , Bhoi Bibhuti , Rath Akshyaya , Vanage Geeta , Vyas Purvi , Ranvir Ramchandra , Patel Pankaj R.
Published: June 2015

Saroglitazar is a novel nonthiazolidinediones (TZD) and nonfibric acid derivative designed to act as dual regulator of lipids and glucose metabolism by activating peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR). These studies evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of Saroglitazar in preclinical in vitro and in vivo models. The EC50 values of Saroglitazar assessed in HepG2 cells using PPAR transactivation assay for hPPARα and hPPARγ were 0.65 pmol/L and 3 nmol/L, respectively. In db/db mice, 12‐day treatment with Saroglitazar (0.01–3 mg/kg per day, orally) caused dose‐dependent reductions in serum triglycerides (TG), free fatty acids (FFA), and glucose. The ED50 for these effects was found to be 0.05, 0.19, and 0.19 mg/kg, respectively with highly significant (91%) reduction in serum insulin and AUC‐glucose following oral glucose administration (59%) at 1 mg/kg dose. Significant reduction in serum TG (upto 90%) was also observed in Zucker fa/fa rats, Swiss albino mice, and in high fat ‐high cholesterol (HF‐HC)‐fed Golden Syrian hamsters. LDL cholesterol was significantly lowered in hApoB100/hCETP double transgenic mice and HF‐HC diet fed Golden Syrian Hamsters. Hyperinsulinemic‐Euglycemic clamp study in Zucker fa/fa rats demonstrated potent insulin‐sensitizing activity. Saroglitazar also showed a significant decrease in SBP (22 mmHg) and increase (62.1%) in serum adiponectin levels in Zucker fa/fa rats. A 90‐day repeated dose comparative study in Wistar rats and marmosets confirmed efficacy (TG lowering) potential of Saroglitazar and has indicated low risk of PPAR‐associated side effects in humans. Based on efficacy and safety profile, Saroglitazar appears to have good potential as novel therapeutic agent for treatment of dyslipidemia and diabetes.
Novel aspects of cholinergic regulation of colonic ion transport
Authors: Bader Sandra , Diener Martin
Published: June 2015

Nicotinic receptors are not only expressed by excitable tissues, but have been identified in various epithelia. One aim of this study was to investigate the expression of nicotinic receptors and their involvement in the regulation of ion transport across colonic epithelium. Ussing chamber experiments with putative nicotinic agonists and antagonists were performed at rat colon combined with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) detection of nicotinic receptor subunits within the epithelium. Dimethylphenylpiperazinium (DMPP) and nicotine induced a tetrodotoxin‐resistant anion secretion leading to an increase in short‐circuit current (Isc) across colonic mucosa. The response was suppressed by the nicotinic receptor antagonist hexamethonium. RT‐PCR experiments revealed the expression of α2, α4, α5, α6, α7, α10, and β4 nicotinic receptor subunits in colonic epithelium. Choline, the product of acetylcholine hydrolysis, is known for its affinity to several nicotinic receptor subtypes. As a strong acetylcholinesterase activity was found in colonic epithelium, the effect of choline on Isc was examined. Choline induced a concentration‐dependent, tetrodotoxin‐resistant chloride secretion which was, however, resistant against hexamethonium, but was inhibited by atropine. Experiments with inhibitors of muscarinic M1 and M3 receptors revealed that choline‐evoked secretion was mainly due to a stimulation of epithelial M3 receptors. Although choline proved to be only a partial agonist, it concentration‐dependently desensitized the response to acetylcholine, suggesting that it might act as a modulator of cholinergically induced anion secretion. Thus the cholinergic regulation of colonic ion transport – up to now solely explained by cholinergic submucosal neurons stimulating epithelial muscarinic receptors – is more complex than previously assumed.
Pharmacological properties of acid N‐thiazolylamide FFA2 agonists
Authors: Brown Andrew J. , Tsoulou Christina , Ward Emma , Gower Elaine , Bhudia Nisha , Chowdhury Forhad , Dean Tony W. , Faucher Nicolas , Gangar Akanksha , Dowell Simon J.
Published: June 2015

FFA2 is a receptor for short‐chain fatty acids. Propionate (C3) and 4‐chloro‐α‐(1‐methylethyl)‐N‐2‐thiazolyl‐benzeneacetamide (4‐CMTB), the prototypical synthetic FFA2 agonist, evoke calcium mobilization in neutrophils and inhibit lipolysis in adipocytes via this G‐protein‐coupled receptor. 4‐CMTB contains an N‐thiazolylamide motif but no acid group, and 4‐CMTB and C3 bind to different sites on FFA2 and show allosteric cooperativity. Recently, FFA2 agonists have been described that contain both N‐thiazolylamide and carboxylate groups, reminiscent of bitopic ligands. These are thought to engage the carboxylate‐binding site on FFA2, but preliminary evidence suggests they do not bind to the same site as 4‐CMTB even though both contain N‐thiazolylamide. Here, we describe the characterization of four FFA2 ligands containing both N‐thiazolylamide and carboxylate. (R)‐3‐benzyl‐4‐((4‐(2‐chlorophenyl)thiazol‐2‐yl)(methyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoic acid (compound 14) exhibits allosteric agonism with 4‐CMTB but not C3. Three other compounds agonize FFA2 in [35S]GTPγS‐incorporation or cAMP assays but behave as inverse agonists in yeast‐based gene‐reporter assays, showing orthosteric antagonism of C3 responses but allosteric antagonism of 4‐CMTB responses. Thus, the bitopic‐like FFA2 ligands engage the orthosteric site but do not compete at the site of 4‐CMTB binding on an FFA2 receptor molecule. Compound 14 activates FFA2 on human neutrophils and mouse adipocytes, but appears not to inhibit lipolysis upon treatment of human primary adipocytes in spite of the presence of a functional FFA2 receptor in these cells. Hence, these new ligands may reveal differences in coupling of FFA2 between human and rodent adipose tissues.
DSP‐1053, a novel serotonin reuptake inhibitor with 5‐HT1A partial agonistic activity, displays fast antidepressant effect with minimal undesirable effects in juvenile rats
Authors: Kato Taro , Matsumoto Yuji , Yamamoto Masanori , Matsumoto Kenji , Baba Satoko , Nakamichi Keiko , Matsuda Harumi , Nishimuta Haruka , Yabuuchi Kazuki
Published: June 2015

Enhancement of serotonergic neurotransmission has been the main stream of treatment for patients with depression. However, delayed therapeutic onset and undesirable side effects are major drawbacks for conventional serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Here, we show that DSP‐1053, a novel serotonin reuptake inhibitor with 5‐HT1A partial agonistic activity, displays fast antidepressant efficacy with minimal undesirable effects, especially nausea and emesis in animal models. DSP‐1053 bound human serotonin transporter and 5‐HT1A receptor with the Ki values of 1.02 ± 0.06 and 5.05 ± 1.07 nmol/L, respectively. This compound inhibited the serotonin transporter with an IC50 value of 2.74 ± 0.41 nmol/L and had an intrinsic activity for 5‐HT1A receptors of 70.0 ± 6.3%. In rat microdialysis, DSP‐1053, given once at 3 and 10 mg kg−1, dose‐dependently increased extracellular 5‐HT levels. In the rat forced swimming test, 2‐week administration of DSR‐1053 (1 mg kg−1) significantly reduced rats immobility time after treatment, whereas paroxetine (3 and 10 mg kg−1) required 3‐week administration to reduce rats immobility time. In olfactory bulbectomy model, 1‐ and 2‐week administration of DSP‐1053 reduced both of emotional scores and activity in the open field, whereas paroxetine required 2 weeks to show similar beneficial effects. Although single administration of DSP‐1053‐induced emesis and vomiting in the rat and Suncus murinus, multiple treatment with this compound, but not with paroxetine, decreased the number of vomiting episodes. These results highlight the important role of 5‐HT1A receptors in both the efficacy and tolerability of DSP‐1053 as a new therapeutic option for the treatment of depression.
Characterization of intracellular palladium nanoparticles synthesized by Desulfovibrio desulfuricans and Bacillus benzeovorans
Authors: Omajali Jacob B. , Mikheenko Iryna P. , Merroun Mohamed L. , Wood Joseph , Macaskie Lynne E.
Published: June 2015

Early studies have focused on the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles within the periplasmic layer or on the outer membrane ofDesulfovibrio desulfuricansand on the S-layer protein ofBacillus sphaericus. However, it has remained unclear whether the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles also takes place in the bacterial cell cytoplasm. This study reports the use of high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy with a high-angle annular dark field detector and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry attachment to investigate the intracellular synthesis of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs). We show the intracellular synthesis of Pd NPs within cells of two anaerobic strains ofD. desulfuricansand an aerobic strain ofB. benzeovoransusing hydrogen and formate as electron donors. The Pd nanoparticles were small and largely monodispersed, between 0.2 and 8 nm, occasionally from 9 to 12 nm with occasional larger nanoparticles. WithD. desulfuricansNCIMB 8307 (but notD.desulfuricansNCIMB 8326) and withB. benzeovoransNCIMB 12555, the NPs were larger when made at the expense of formate, co-localizing with phosphate in the latter, and were crystalline, but were amorphous when made with H2,with no phosphorus association. The intracellular Pd nanoparticles were mainly icosahedrons with surfaces comprising {111} facets and about 5 % distortion when compared with that of bulk palladium. The particles were more concentrated in the cell cytoplasm than the cell wall, outer membrane, or periplasm. We provide new evidence for synthesis of palladium nanoparticles within the cytoplasm of bacteria, which were confirmed to maintain cellular integrity during this synthesis.
The use of remote cameras for monitoring cage traps during animal trapping
Authors: Campbell Ruairidh D. , Griffith Monica
Published: June 2015

We demonstrate, over 44.6 trap nights, the application of remote cameras that send MMS images over the GSM/GPRS telecommunications network for the monitoring of cage traps. Cameras were programmed to message regularly but were also triggered by animal movement. Despite inconsistencies in messaging, the cameras were effective: For all five animal‐trapping events, images were sent on the animals approach and captures confirmed within the programmed time period. The system allowed researchers to react quickly to the capture of an animal and to respond appropriately to other trigger‐events. Network operating costs were EUR 6/trap night. We recommend setting time lapse intervals to half the maximum period over which it is ethically acceptable to hold target, or by‐catch, species.
Anxiety and depression after failure of assisted reproductive treatment among patients experiencing infertility
Authors: Maroufizadeh Saman , Karimi Elaheh , Vesali Samira , Omani Samani Reza
Published: June 2015

Objective

To investigate the impact of the number of previous infertility treatment failures on anxiety and depression.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, individuals (men and women, but not couples) aged at least 18 years who had a history of infertility and could read and write in Persian were enrolled at the Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran, between November 1, 2013, and February 28, 2014. Participants provided demographic and infertility information and completed the Persian version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

Overall, 330 patients (122 men, 208 women) were included. Mean scores on the HADS anxiety and depression subscales (HADS‐A and HADS‐D) were 8.40 ± 4.51 and 5.95 ± 3.54, respectively. In multiple regression analysis, mean HADS‐A scores were significantly higher for patients with one treatment failure (9.57 ± 4.58) than for those without a history of treatment (7.79 ± 4.13; P = 0.003). HADS‐D scores were significantly higher for patients with two failures (6.92 ± 3.69) than for those with no previous treatment (5.59 ± 3.79; P = 0.019).

Conclusion

Patients with infertility have increased depression and anxiety after infertility treatment failure. Counseling or treatment for these potential psychological effects should be considered after infertility treatment failure.
Is prevalence of colorectal polyps higher in patients with family history of colorectal cancer?
Authors: Murad-Regadas Sthela Maria , Bezerra Carla Camila Rocha , Peixoto Ana Ligia Rocha , Regadas Francisco Sérgio Pinheiro , Rodrigues Lusmar Veras , Siebra José Airton Gonçalves , da Silva Fernandes Graziela Olivia , Vasconcelos Rafael Aragão
Published: June 2015

Objectives To assess the prevalence of polyps in patients with a family history of colorectal cancer, in comparison to asymptomatic individuals with indication for screening.

Methods A prospective study in a group of patients who underwent colonoscopy between 2012 and 2014. Patients were divided into two groups: Group I: no family history of colorectal cancer, and Group II: with a family history in first-degree relatives. Demographic characteristics, findings on colonoscopy, presence, location and histological type of polyps were evaluated, comparing the two groups.

Results 214 patients were evaluated: 162 in Group I and 52 in Group II. The distribution of patients with polyps was similar in relation to gender: polyps were evidenced in Group I in 33 (20%) female patients vs. 10 (6%) male patients (p = 1.00); in Group II, the presence of polyps was evidenced in 9 (17%) female patients vs. 2 (4%) male patients (p = 1.00). Polypoid lesions were found in 54 patients (25%), with 43 (26%) in Group I and 11 (21%) in Group II. The prevalence of adenomas was similar in both groups (Group I = 18/37% vs. Group II = 10/50%) (p = 0.83).

Conclusion In this preliminary study, no correlation was found between prevalence of polyps and a family history of colorectal cancer.
Weight Symmetry and Latency Scores for Unexpected Surface Perturbations in Subjects With Traumatic and Vascular Unilateral Transtibial Amputation
Authors: Molina‐Rueda Francisco , Molero‐Sánchez Alberto , Alguacil‐Diego Isabel M. , Carratalá‐Tejada María , Cuesta‐Gómez Alicia , Miangolarra‐Page Juan Carlos
Published: June 2015

Background

Subjects with lower limb amputation develop new motor control strategies to preserve balance when they experience unexpected perturbations. Most studies performed thus far have not aimed to discuss the possible differences in postural control between subjects with vascular unilateral transtibial amputation (UTA) and subjects with traumatic UTA.

Objective

To analyze the automatic postural reaction in response to unexpected surface perturbations in a sample of subjects with traumatic and vascular UTA and to compare these observations with those for a group of healthy subjects.

Setting

University department.

Design

Observational study.

Participants

A total of 9 men with traumatic UTA, 7 men with vascular UTA, and 10 control subjects without amputation.

Intervention

Computerized dynamic posturography Smart EquiTest System version 8.0 was used to measure automatic postural responses in both groups.

Main Outcome Measures

The motor control test was used to assess the participants' automatic postural responses to unexpected surface perturbations.

Results

Latency scores showed that subjects with traumatic UTA coped with faster latencies under their sound limb than did the subjects with vascular UTA in medium backward and forward perturbations (medium‐backward: P = .004; medium‐forward: P = .037). In addition, the subjects with traumatic UTA also managed faster responses to medium‐backward (P = .017 versus right control limb; P = .046 versus left control limb) and large‐backward (P = .021 versus right control limb) and medium‐forward (P = .012 versus right control limb; P = .043 versus left control limb) perturbations in their sound limb in contrast to control subjects. Weight symmetry showed that the subjects with traumatic UTA bore significantly more weight through their sound limb compared with the control subjects during medium and large backward translations (P = .028 and P = .045, respectively).

Conclusions

The subjects with traumatic UTA had a greater reliance on their sound limb, and they had faster latencies and more weight in the sound limb upon experiencing unexpected perturbations compared with the control subjects. Conversely, persons with vascular UTA experienced slower latency responses in the sound limb compared with persons with traumatic UTA.
THE MISSING PEOPLE: ACCOUNTING FOR THE PRODUCTIVITY OF INDIGENOUS POPULATIONS IN CAPE COLONIAL HISTORY
Authors: FOURIE JOHAN , GREEN ERIK
Published: June 2015

Because information about the livelihoods of indigenous groups in Africa is often missing from colonial records, the presence of such people usually escapes attention in quantitative estimates of colonial economic activity. This is nowhere more apparent than in the eighteenth-century Dutch Cape Colony, where the role of the Khoesan in Cape production, despite being frequently acknowledged, has been almost completely ignored in quantitative investigations. Combining household-level settler data with anecdotal accounts of Khoesan labour, this article presents new estimates of the Khoesan population of the Cape Colony. Our results show that the Khoesan did not leave the area as a consequence of settler expansion. On the contrary, the number of Khoesan employed by the settlers increased over time, as the growth of settler farming followed a pattern of primitive accumulation and drove the Khoesan to abandon their pastoral lifestyle to become farm labourers. We show that, in failing to include the Khoesan population, previous estimates have overestimated slave productivity, social inequality, and the level of gross domestic product in the Cape Colony.
Against Moral Absolutism: Surveillance and Disclosure After Snowden
Authors: Sagar Rahul
Published: June 2015

Now that the uproar provoked by the disclosure of the National Security Agency's (NSA) surveillance programs has lessened, and the main protagonists, Edward Snowden and Glenn Greenwald, have had a chance to make the case for their actions, we are in a position to evaluate whether their disclosure and publication of communications intelligence was justified. To this end, this essay starts by clarifying the history, rationale, and efficacy of communications surveillance. Following this I weigh the arguments against surveillance, focusing in particular on the countervailing value of privacy. Next I explain why state secrecy makes it difficult for citizens and lawmakers to assess the balance that officials are striking between security and privacy. Finally, I turn to consider whether the confounding nature of state secrecy justifies Snowden's and Greenwald's actions. I conclude that their actions are unjustified because they treat privacy and transparency as trumps. Consequently, their actions embody a moral absolutism that disrespects the norms and procedures central to a constitutional democracy.
Sitzen tut einfach weh!
Authors: Knechtle Beat , Jäckel Kristian , Rosemann Thomas , Rüst Christoph A. , Cogliatti Sergio
Published: June 2015

Wir berichten über einen 53-jährigen Patienten, der wegen Schmerzen beim Sitzen zum Hausarzt ging. Eine gastroenterologische sowie eine urologische Abklärung blieben unergiebig. Ein Röntgenbild des Beckens zeigte ein abgewinkeltes Os sacrum. Im MRT kam schliesslich eine rund 9 cm grosse Raumforderung zur Darstellung, die nach bioptischer Abklärung einem Plasmozytom entsprach.
CME
Authors: Nater Harald , Perger Ludwig , Suter Paolo M.
Published: June 2015

Statinunverträglichkeit im Sinne von myopathischen Schmerzen ist im Praxisalltag häufig. Massnahmen bezüglich Prävention und Therapie werden praxisnahe diskutiert.
The optoelectronic role of chlorine in CH3NH3PbI3(Cl)-based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhou Huanping , Fang Yihao , Stieg Adam Z. , Song Tze-Bin , Wang Hsin-Hua , Xu Xiaobao , Liu Yongsheng , Lu Shirong , You Jingbi , Sun Pengyu , McKay Jeff , Goorsky Mark S. , Yang Yang
Published: June 2015

Perovskite photovoltaics offer a compelling combination of extremely low-cost, ease of processing and high device performance. The optoelectronic properties of the prototypical CH3NH3PbI3can be further adjusted by introducing other extrinsic ions. Specifically, chlorine incorporation has been shown to affect the morphological development of perovksite films, which results in improved optoelectronic characteristics for high efficiency. However, it requires a deep understanding to the role of extrinsic halide, especially in the absence of unpredictable morphological influence during film growth. Here we report an effective strategy to investigate the role of the extrinsic ion in the context of optoelectronic properties, in which the morphological factors that closely correlate to device performance are mostly decoupled. The chlorine incorporation is found to mainly improve the carrier transport across the heterojunction interfaces, rather than within the perovskite crystals. Further optimization according this protocol leads to solar cells achieving power conversion efficiency of 17.91%.
Salicylic acid biosynthesis is enhanced and contributes to increased biotrophic pathogen resistance in Arabidopsis hybrids
Authors: Yang Li , Li Bosheng , Zheng Xiao-yu , Li Jigang , Yang Mei , Dong Xinnian , He Guangming , An Chengcai , Deng Xing Wang
Published: June 2015

Heterosis, the phenotypic superiority of a hybrid over its parents, has been demonstrated for many traits inArabidopsis thaliana, but its effect on defence remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that hybrids between someA. thalianaaccessions show increased resistance to the biotrophic bacterial pathogenPseudomonas syringaepv.tomato(Pst) DC3000. Comparisons of transcriptomes between these hybrids and their parents after inoculation reveal that several key salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis genes are significantly upregulated in hybrids. Moreover, SA levels are higher in hybrids than in either parent. Increased resistance toPstDC3000 is significantly compromised in hybrids ofpad4mutants in which the SA biosynthesis pathway is blocked. Finally, increased histone H3 acetylation of key SA biosynthesis genes correlates with their upregulation in infected hybrids. Our data demonstrate that enhanced activation of SA biosynthesis inA. thalianahybrids may contribute to their increased resistance to a biotrophic bacterial pathogen.
Molecular snapshots of the Pex1/6 AAA+ complex in action
Authors: Ciniawsky Susanne , Grimm Immanuel , Saffian Delia , Girzalsky Wolfgang , Erdmann Ralf , Wendler Petra
Published: June 2015

The peroxisomal proteins Pex1 and Pex6 form a heterohexameric type II AAA+ ATPase complex, which fuels essential protein transport across peroxisomal membranes. Mutations in either ATPase in humans can lead to severe peroxisomal disorders and early death. We present an extensive structural and biochemical analysis of the yeast Pex1/6 complex. The heterohexamer forms a trimer of Pex1/6 dimers with a triangular geometry that is atypical for AAA+ complexes. While the C-terminal nucleotide-binding domains (D2) of Pex6 constitute the main ATPase activity of the complex, both D2 harbour essential substrate-binding motifs. ATP hydrolysis results in a pumping motion of the complex, suggesting that Pex1/6 function involves substrate translocation through its central channel. Mutation of the Walker B motif in one D2 domain leads to ATP hydrolysis in the neighbouring domain, giving structural insights into inter-domain communication of these unique heterohexameric AAA+ assemblies.
Steady-state cross-correlations for live two-colour super-resolution localization data sets
Authors: Stone Matthew B. , Veatch Sarah L.
Published: June 2015

Cross-correlation of super-resolution images gathered from point localizations allows for robust quantification of protein co-distributions in chemically fixed cells. Here this is extended to dynamic systems through an analysis that quantifies the steady-state cross-correlation between spectrally distinguishable probes. This methodology is used to quantify the co-distribution of several mobile membrane proteins in both vesicles and live cells, including Lyn kinase and the B-cell receptor during antigen stimulation.
Influence of slip on the Plateau–Rayleigh instability on a fibre
Authors: Haefner Sabrina , Benzaquen Michael , Bäumchen Oliver , Salez Thomas , Peters Robert , McGraw Joshua D. , Jacobs Karin , Raphaël Elie , Dalnoki-Veress Kari
Published: June 2015

The Plateau–Rayleigh instability of a liquid column underlies a variety of fascinating phenomena that can be observed in everyday life. In contrast to the case of a free liquid cylinder, describing the evolution of a liquid layer on a solid fibre requires consideration of the solid–liquid interface. Here we revisit the Plateau–Rayleigh instability of a liquid coating a fibre by varying the hydrodynamic boundary condition at the fibre–liquid interface, from no slip to slip. Although the wavelength is not sensitive to the solid–liquid interface, we find that the growth rate of the undulations strongly depends on the hydrodynamic boundary condition. The experiments are in excellent agreement with a new thin-film theory incorporating slip, thus providing an original, quantitative and robust tool to measure slip lengths.
Direct observation of solid-state reversed transformation from crystals to quasicrystals in a Mg alloy
Authors: Liu Jian-Fang , Yang Zhi-Qing , Ye Heng-Qiang
Published: June 2015

Phase transformation of quasicrystals is of interest in various fields of science and technology. Interestingly, we directly observed unexpected solid-state epitaxial nucleation and growth of Zn
6
Mg
3
Y icosahedral quasicrystals in a Mg alloy at about 573 K which is about 300 K below the melting point of Zn
6
Mg
3
Y, in contrast to formation of quasicrystals through solidification that was usually found in many alloys. Maximizing local packing density of atoms associated with segregation of Y and Zn in Mg adjacent to Mg/Zn
3
MgY interfaces triggered atomic rearrangement in Mg to form icosahedra coupled epitaxially with surface distorted icosahedra of Zn
3
MgY, which plays a critical role in the nucleation of icosahedral clusters. A local Zn:Mg:Y ratio close to 6:3:1, corresponding to a valence electron concentration of about 2.15, should have been reached to trigger the formation of quasicrystals at Mg/Zn
3
MgY interfaces. The solid-state icosahedral ordering in crystals opens a new window for growing quasicrystals and understanding their atomic origin mechanisms. Epitaxial growth of quasicrystals onto crystals can modify the surface/interface structures and properties of crystalline materials.
COX2 is involved in hypoxia-induced TNF-α expression in osteoblast
Authors: Xing Yonggang , Wang Renxian , Chen Dafu , Mao Jianping , Shi Rui , Wu Zhihong , Kang Jun , Tian Wei , Zhang Chi
Published: June 2015

Bone regeneration involves a series of events in a coordinated manner, including recruitment of mesenchymal stem cells, induction of immune response, inflammatory activity and vascular ingrowth. The microenvironment of bone regeneration is hypoxic. Low oxygen tension (hypoxia) promotes the upregulation of several signaling molecules. The primary mediating factor is the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1). Hypoxia stimulates the expression of a variety of cytokines from inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells and osteoblasts. TNF-α is a key proinflammatory cytokine. The molecular events involved in osteoblast dysfunction under hypoxia are not fully understood. This study determined the effects of hypoxia on TNF-α in osteoblasts and molecular mechanisms were explored. We observed that hypoxia induced TNF-α expression in a time-dependent manner in osteoblasts. Experiments using a potent HIF-1α activator DFO demonstrated that hypoxia-induced TNF-α was mediated by HIF-1-α. In addition, this study showed that hypoxia activated cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) expression along with TNF-α. Inhibition experiments using COX2 inhibitor N398 indicated that COX2 was involved in hypoxia-mediated TNF-α expression and this observation was further confirmed by Small interfering RNA against COX2. On the other hand, TNF-α didn’t lead to the activation of COX2 expression. We conclude that COX2 is involved in hypoxia-induced TNF-α expression in osteoblast.
Removal of ecotoxicity of 17α-ethinylestradiol using TAML/peroxide water treatment
Authors: Mills Matthew R. , Arias-Salazar Karla , Baynes Alice , Shen Longzhu Q. , Churchley John , Beresford Nicola , Gayathri Chakicherla , Gil Roberto R. , Kanda Rakesh , Jobling Susan , Collins Terrence J.
Published: June 2015

17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), a synthetic oestrogen in oral contraceptives, is one of many pharmaceuticals found in inland waterways worldwide as a result of human consumption and excretion into wastewater treatment systems. At low parts per trillion (ppt), EE2 induces feminisation of male fish, diminishing reproductive success and causing fish population collapse. Intended water quality standards for EE2 set a much needed global precedent. Ozone and activated carbon provide effective wastewater treatments, but their energy intensities and capital/operating costs are formidable barriers to adoption. Here we describe the technical and environmental performance of a fast- developing contender for mitigation of EE2 contamination of wastewater based upon small- molecule, full-functional peroxidase enzyme replicas called “TAML activators”. From neutral to basic pH, TAML activators with H2O2 efficiently degrade EE2 in pure lab water, municipal effluents and EE2-spiked synthetic urine. TAML/H2O2 treatment curtails estrogenicity in vitro and substantially diminishes fish feminization in vivo. Our results provide a starting point for a future process in which tens of thousands of tonnes of wastewater could be treated per kilogram of catalyst. We suggest TAML/H2O2 is a worthy candidate for exploration as an environmentally compatible, versatile, method for removing EE2 and other pharmaceuticals from municipal wastewaters.
Emotional Eating Phenotype is Associated with Central Dopamine D2 Receptor Binding Independent of Body Mass Index
Authors: Eisenstein Sarah A. , Bischoff Allison N. , Gredysa Danuta M. , Antenor-Dorsey Jo Ann V. , Koller Jonathan M. , Al-Lozi Amal , Pepino Marta Y. , Klein Samuel , Perlmutter Joel S. , Moerlein Stephen M. , Black Kevin J. , Hershey Tamara
Published: June 2015

PET studies have provided mixed evidence regarding central D2/D3 dopamine receptor binding and its relationship with obesity as measured by body mass index (BMI). Other aspects of obesity may be more tightly coupled to the dopaminergic system. We characterized obesity-associated behaviors and determined if these related to central D2 receptor (D2R) specific binding independent of BMI. Twenty-two obese and 17 normal-weight participants completed eating- and reward-related questionnaires and underwent PET scans using the D2R-selective and nondisplaceable radioligand (N-[11C]methyl)benperidol. Questionnaires were grouped by domain (eating related to emotion, eating related to reward, non-eating behavior motivated by reward or sensitivity to punishment). Normalized, summed scores for each domain were compared between obese and normal-weight groups and correlated with striatal and midbrain D2R binding. Compared to normal-weight individuals, the obese group self-reported higher rates of eating related to both emotion and reward (p < 0.001), greater sensitivity to punishment (p = 0.06) and lower non-food reward behavior (p < 0.01). Across normal-weight and obese participants, self-reported emotional eating and non-food reward behavior positively correlated with striatal (p < 0.05) and midbrain (p < 0.05) D2R binding, respectively. In conclusion, an emotional eating phenotype may reflect altered central D2R function better than other commonly used obesity-related measures such as BMI.