bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell type specific tracing of the subcortical input to primary visual cortex from the basal forebrain
Authors: Lean Georgina A. , Liu Yong‐Jun , Lyon David C.
Published: February 2018

The basal forebrain provides cholinergic inputs to primary visual cortex (V1) that play a key modulatory role on visual function. While basal forebrain afferents terminate in the infragranular layers of V1, acetylcholine is delivered to more superficial layers through volume transmission. Nevertheless, direct synaptic contact in deep layers 5 and 6 may provide a more immediate effect on V1 modulation. Using helper viruses with cell type specific promoters to target retrograde infection of pseudotyped and genetically modified rabies virus evidence was found for direct synaptic input onto V1 inhibitory neurons. These inputs were similar in number to geniculocortical inputs and, therefore, considered robust. In contrast, while clear evidence for dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus input to V1 excitatory neurons was found, there was no evidence of direct synaptic input from the basal forebrain. These results suggest a direct and more immediate influence of the basal forebrain on local V1 inhibition.
Interfacial Assembly of Robust TiO2 Nanosheets Onto Silica‐Modified Reduced Graphene Oxide for Highly Efficient Degradation of Organic Dyes
Authors: Wu Minghong , Gu Lanbing , Wang Qiong , Wang Chao , Zhang Haijiao
Published: February 2018

The assembly of two‐dimensional (2D) transition‐metal oxides and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) has shown great potential in photocatalysis, energy storage, and photoelectric devices. In the work, we present a 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)‐induced interfacial assembly route for preparation of a new type of 2D TiO2@RGO hybrid nanostructure. Benefiting from the electrostatic interaction between APTES and RGO, followed by the hydrolysis of APTES, an ultrathin SiO2 layer is first well grown into the surface of RGO. Subsequently, ultrathin TiO2 nanosheets (about 4 nm in thickness) are uniformly decorated onto the surface of silica‐modified RGO. These robust TiO2 nanosheets interconnect each other and form a unique net‐like architecture. Significantly, the TiO2@RGO products show superior structural stability. Consequently, the TiO2@RGO product annealed at 750 °C demonstrates an excellent photocatalytic activity and a good cycling life for degradation of organic dyes such as methyl orange (MO), rhodamine B (RhB) and methyl blue (MB) owing to the unique construction and enhanced synergistic effect.
Tracking the Sugar Rush: Incorporating Continuous Glucose Monitoring Into Multisite Early Clinical Research With Type 2 Diabetes Subjects
Authors: Paglialunga Sabina , Morimoto Bruce H. , de la Peña Amparo , Fortier Caroline
Published: February 2018

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems allow patients with diabetes mellitus to closely track glucose concentrations over several days, identify trends in glucose levels, and avoid glucose excursions. This technology has not only advanced diabetes mellitus management but has increased patient safety through greater glycemic awareness. Due to these attributes, CGM is now being applied in therapeutic research as a pharmacodynamic tool to support early clinical drug development programs. However, to date only a handful of studies have utilized CGM in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) drug development. A potential barrier from fostering greater use of CGM in clinical development may be related to concerns over subject variability. Therefore, we investigated a key consideration when implementing CGM into early clinical research studies: daily variation within patients with T2DM from multiple clinical research units. From 24 patients with T2DM, we observed strong daily reproducibility (Pearson R = 0.86, P < .0001) in CGM results and found that this technique is practical for multisite studies. Altogether, with low daily variability, CGM is a powerful pharmacodynamic tool for drug efficacy and safety monitoring.
Generalized analytical formulae to compute electrical characteristics of a homogenous ladder network of the transformer winding
Authors: Mondal Mithun , Kumbhar Ganesh Balu
Published: February 2018

Many electrical systems are expressed as a complex ladder network consisting of combinations of resistances, inductances, and capacitances. Computation of electrical characteristics, such as voltages, currents, and equivalent impedances of these ladder networks require the solution of complicated differential‐algebraic equations that are quite tedious and cumbersome. The earlier works have given particular attention to purely resistive ladder networks ignoring the inductance and capacitance parameters. Moreover, there are no direct expressions available to quickly compute these characteristics. This paper derives generalized analytical expressions that can be directly used to obtain the electrical characteristics of a finite as well as semi‐infinite homogenous ladder network by simply plugging the values of its constituent parameters. Expressions are deduced for excitation source applied to the input terminal and across 2 arbitrary nodes, respectively. Kirchhoff mesh and node laws along with ordinary algebra and trigonometric theorems are applied to derive these expressions. Boundary‐value technique is used to circuit equations to determine unknown coefficients of the expressions. The derivation given in these paper would surely help the readers to quickly compute the electrical characteristics without solving recursive circuit equations and avoiding complex state‐space matrices.
Influence of bias magnetic field on the vacuum arc in double‐break vacuum circuit breakers
Authors: Liao Minfu , Qiao Shuzhen , Lu Gang , Ge Guowei , Zou Jiyan
Published: February 2018

When double‐break vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs) interrupt the fault current, the series arc will generate their individual magnetic fields in different breaks. The magnetic field in one break will influence the arc in another break if the magnetic field is strong enough or the two breaks are very close. In this case, an interactive magnetic field effect happens. This field is also called the bias magnetic field (BMF). BMF can cause anode erosion and affect the performance at current zero. The distribution of BMF and the optimal configuration of the double‐break VCBs were obtained by the electromagnetic field simulation using the Ansoft Maxwell software. Based on the simulated magnetic field data, in the experiments, the interaction between the series vacuum arcs in double‐break VCBs was equivalent to the interaction between a single vacuum arc and the magnetic field generated by a Helmholtz coil. A high‐speed CMOS camera was used to record the trajectory of the vacuum arc plasma under different BMFs with different types of contacts. The results show the BMF can increase the arc voltage, and the arc becomes unstable. When the BMF becomes stronger, the arc voltage increases, and the arc becomes more unstable. In addition, for different types of contacts, the development process of the arc and the influence level are different under the same BMF. For a Wan‐type transverse magnetic field (TMF) contact or strong BMF, metal sputtering is evident and anode erosion becomes serious. For a cup‐type axial magnetic field (AMF) contact, the influence of BMF on the series arc plasma in double‐break VCBs is less than that of the Wan‐type TMF contact. The results of this work may be helpful for the design of compact double‐break VCBs.
Modelling of JET DT experiments in ILW configurations
Authors: Zagórski R. , Czarnecka A. , Ivanova‐Stanik I. , Challis C. ,   JET Contributors
Published: February 2018

Numerical scan at constant β shows that core and scrape‐off layer (SOL) radiations do not depend on the plasma current (Ip). Whereas the SOL radiation increases with seeding, the core radiation, however, does not continue to increase with seeding but rolls over at higher seeding rates in the simulations. The core plasma contamination by W ions is low, cW ≪ 10−4. When the seeding starts, an increase in radiation power leading to a reduction in Ploss = (Paux − Prad) is observed, influencing the plasma confinement. The power scan at constant Ip indicates that the core radiation, Pplate, PSOL (and even SOL radiation), saturates with seeding. In addition, strong dilution with increasing seeding (Zeff ≫ 3) and large W concentrations with increasing power are found. Comparing neon with nitrogen seeding, it is seen that neon leads to slightly larger total radiation than nitrogen. However, that is achieved with much higher plasma contamination (Zeff ∼ 4–5) and dilution in the case of Ne, and simultaneously the power crossing the separatrix is lower for Ne than for N, indicating better H‐mode performance in N2‐seeded discharges.
Molecular dynamics simulation of Ag–Cu cluster growth on a thin polymer film
Authors: Abraham J.W. , Bonitz M.
Published: February 2018

We present molecular dynamics (MD) simulation results for the growth of silver–copper nanoparticles on a polymeric surface during sputter deposition. The simulation procedure extends a previous implementation for gold nanoparticles to bimetallic nanoparticles. Making use of an accelerated version of MD, the timescales of the simulations become comparable to those of an actual deposition process, which may take several minutes in experiments. While silver and copper are known to be immiscible in the bulk, we trace the concentration profiles of Ag and Cu atoms in the clusters for film thicknesses up to 1.8 nm and are thus able to investigate the early stages of phase separation on the nanoscale.
Non‐local heat flux application for scrape‐off layer plasma
Authors: Bufferand H. , Ciraolo G. , Di Cintio P. , Fedorczak N. , Ghendrih Ph. , Lepri S. , Livi R. , Marandet Y. , Serre E. , Tamain P.
Published: February 2018

The non‐local expression proposed by Luciani‐Mora‐Virmont is implemented in a one dimensional fluid model for the scrape‐off layer. Analytical solutions for heat equation are discussed as well as the impact of sheath boundary conditions on the continuity of the temperature profile. The non‐local heat flux is compared to the Spitzer‐Härm heat flux for different collisionality.
Plasma simulation of complex HL‐2M divertor geometries using SOLEDGE2D‐EIRENE edge plasma transport code
Authors: Mao R. , Fedorczak N. , Ciraolo G. , Bufferand H. , Zheng G.Y. , Li J.X.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we present the initial results of a fundamental study of the impact of the magnetic configuration on the detachment behaviour and heat exhaust in HL‐2M simulation for low power.

Starting from typical HL‐2M single‐null shapes, the plasma density at the core–edge interface is varied from 1 × 1019 to 8 × 1019 m−3 to investigate the detachment plasma characteristics. The additional X‐point near the primary X‐point and target is invested in snow flake plus (SF+) and snow flake minus (SF−) configurations. Detachment at the outer target is also studied in these simulations. The degree of detachment and the radiation location are investigated using the SOLEDGE2D simulation results. It is found that advanced divertor configurations result in a deeper detachment under the same plasma density and in a reduction in the detachment threshold.
Potency of Δ9–tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids in cannabis in England in 2016: Implications for public health and pharmacology
Authors: Potter David J. , Hammond Kathy , Tuffnell Shaun , Walker Christopher , Di Forti Marta
Published: February 2018

In 2005 and 2008, studies reported that cannabis in England had become dominated by the sinsemilla (unseeded female) form. The average potency (Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] content) of this material had doubled over the previous decade. Cannabis resin then circulating contained approximately equal ratios of THC and cannabidiol (CBD), whereas sinsemilla was almost devoid of CBD. Despite raised health concerns regarding sinsemilla use and the development of psychotic disorders, no update on street cannabis potency has been published since 2008. A total of 995 seized cannabis samples were acquired from the same 5 constabulary areas included in the 2005 study. The differing forms were segregated, and a representative 460 samples analyzed to assess their cannabinoid content using gas chromatography. The resultant median sinsemilla potency of 14.2% THC was similar to that observed in 2005 (13.9%). In each case, sinsemilla contained minimal CBD. Compared with 2005, resin had significantly higher mean THC (6.3%) and lower CBD (2.3%) contents (p < 0.0001). Although the average THC concentration in sinsemilla samples across the 5 constabularies has remained stable since 2005, the availability of this potent form of cannabis has further increased. Moreover, the now rarer resin samples show significantly decreased CBD contents and CBD:THC ratios, leaving the United Kingdom's cannabis street market populated by high‐potency varieties of cannabis, which may have concerning implications for public health.
How plant reproductive success is determined by the interplay of antagonists and mutualists
Authors: Grass Ingo , Bohle Victoria , Tscharntke Teja , Westphal Catrin
Published: February 2018

Plant reproductive success is often the outcome of mutualistic and antagonistic plant–animal interactions, which can be moderated by landscape composition. Studies addressing single plant–animal interactions are common, but studies simultaneously considering multiple plant–animal interactions in a landscape context are still scarce. We selectively excluded flower‐visiting insects on phytometer plants and quantified how mutualistic and antagonistic interactions shaped the reproductive success of a common annual plant, wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis). Floral herbivory by larvae of rape pollen beetles (Meligethes spp.) strongly reduced fruit production, but could be minimized by insecticide application. Total seed production (the product of fruit production and seeds per fruit) strongly increased with pollinator visitation. On average, pollinator access to plants enhanced seed numbers by 754%. Insecticide treatment almost redoubled this number. The landscape composition (proportion of semi‐natural habitats in 1000 m radius) surrounding phytometer plants did not affect plant–animal interactions, presumably due to the high dispersal ability of both the pollen beetles and the major pollinators (syrphid flies, bumblebees). In conclusion, pest control increased reproductive success only in the case of sufficient pollination.
A longitudinal study of fear of hypoglycaemia in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Anderbro Therese Carin , Amsberg Susanne , Moberg Erik , Gonder‐Frederick Linda , Adamson Ulf , Lins Per‐Eric , Johansson Unn‐Britt
Published: February 2018

Aims

To investigate fear of hypoglycaemia (FoH) longitudinally in a cross‐sectional study of adult patients with type 1 diabetes. Specifically, we investigated two subgroups of patients who over 4 years either showed a substantial increase or decrease in level of FoH to identify factors associated with changes in FoH.

Methods

The Swedish version of the Hypoglycaemia Fear Survey (HFS) along with a questionnaire to assess hypoglycaemia history was sent by mail to 764 patients in 2010. The responders in 2010 (n = 469) received another set of the same two questionnaires in 2014. HbA1c, insulin regimen, weight and creatinine from 2010 and 2014 were obtained from medical records. Those with an absolute difference in HFS scores ≥ 75th percentile were included in the subgroup analyses. Statistical analyses included one‐sample t tests, chi‐square and McNemar's test.

Results

The absolute difference in the HFS total score (n = 347) between 2010 and 2014 was m = ±7.6, SD ± 6. In the increased FoH group, more patients reported a high level of moderate hypoglycaemic episodes as well as impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia in 2014 compared with the decreased FoH group. There were more subjects in the increased FoH group with insulin pumps in 2014 and in 2010. In the decreased FoH group, more patients had a high frequency of daily self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in 2010 and in 2014.

Conclusions

Fear of hypoglycaemia is stable across time for most patients. Changes in fear level are associated with changes in hypoglycaemia frequency. Thus, asking patients about changes in hypoglycaemia experiences is of great importance.
Eosinophils are not essential for maintenance of murine plasma cells in the bone marrow
Authors: Haberland Konrad , Ackermann Jochen A. , Ipseiz Natacha , Culemann Stephan , Pracht Katharina , Englbrecht Matthias , Jäck Hans‐Martin , Schett Georg , Schuh Wolfgang , Krönke Gerhard
Published: February 2018

Eosinophils were reported to serve as an essential component of the plasma cell niche within the bone marrow. As the potential contribution of eosinophils to humoral immunity has remained incompletely understood, we aimed to further characterize their role during antibody responses and to additionally investigate their role in autoimmune disease. Contrary to our expectations and the currently prevailing paradigm, we found that eosinophils are fully dispensable for the survival of murine bone marrow plasma cells and accordingly do not contribute to antibody production and autoantibody‐mediated disease. Littermate wild type and eosinophil‐deficient ΔdblGATA‐1 animals showed similar numbers and frequencies of plasma cells and did not differ in steady state levels of immunoglobulins or their ability to raise antigen‐specific antibody responses. Eosinophils were likewise dispensable for autoantibody production or autoantibody‐induced disease in a mouse model of systemic lupus erythematosus. Our findings thus argue against a role of eosinophils during the maintenance of the plasma cell pool and challenge the hitherto postulated concept of an eosinophil‐sustained bone marrow niche.
Enhancement of Push–Pull Properties of Pentafulvene and Pentafulvalene Derivatives by Protonation at Carbon
Authors: Haberland Sophie , Finke Aaron D. , Kerisit Nicolas , Katan Claudine , Trolez Yann , Gawel Przemyslaw , Leito Ivo , Lõkov Märt , Järviste Robert , Kaupmees Karl , Trapp Nils , Ruhlmann Laurent , Boudon Corinne , Himmel Daniel , Diederich François
Published: February 2018

We report visible color changes and new intense, bathochromically shifted bands in electronic absorption spectra that reach into the near‐infrared region (up to 862 nm) upon protonation of nine pentafulvene and expanded pentafulvalene derivatives. This phenomenon can only be explained by the formation of carbocations with highly delocalized charges. Solution pKa values in organic solvents were determined, making use of the method of relative basicity measurements. All seven 6‐phenylpentafulvenes are weak bases, and pKa values of the protonated forms range from 0.92 to 10.29 in acetonitrile and from 1.3 to 5.9 in 1,2‐dichloroethane. For 6‐phenylfulvenes with varying para‐substituents on the phenyl ring, pKa values correlate well with the Hammett parameters σpara. Furthermore, for most compounds, electrochemical reduction is significantly facilitated by protonation. Extensive theoretical and NMR studies strongly support the postulated protonation at carbon.
Direct Electrochemical Nano‐immunosensor for Microcystin‐LR in Seawater
Authors: Talamini Lucas , Zanato Nicole , Zapp Eduardo , Brondani Daniela , Vieira Iolanda Cruz
Published: February 2018

Microcystins are potent hepatotoxins produced by cyanobacteria, which proliferate in wastewaters with high nutrient content. Due to their high toxicity and potential risk to human health, even at low concentrations, the development of a sensitive and rapid method for the monitoring of microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR) in water samples is of great importance. In this context, a new direct electrochemical nano‐immunosensor for MC‐LR detection using the liquid crystal (E)‐1‐decyl‐4‐[(4‐decyloxyphenyl)diazenyl]pyridinium bromide (Br‐Py) as a redox probe and gold nanoparticles stabilized in bovine serum albumin (AuNP‐BSA) is described herein. The microcystin‐LR antibody (anti‐MC‐LR) was covalently immobilized using N‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐N‐ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) and N‐hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) on an AuNP‐BSA/BrPy film. The proposed sensor response is based on the inhibition of the Br‐Py electrochemical signal after the specific interaction of MC‐LR with immobilized anti‐MC‐LR on the electrode surface. The electrochemical behavior of the immunosensor was studied by square‐wave voltammetry (SWV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Under optimized conditions, using SWV and an incubation time of 15 min, the immunosensor exhibits a linear response to MC‐LR concentrations of 0.05 to 500.0 ng mL−1 with a detection limit of 0.05 ng mL−1. The anti‐MC‐LR/AuNP‐BSA/Br‐Py/GCE was successfully applied in the determination of MC‐LR in spiked seawater samples.
Development of a Perchlorate Chemical Sensor Based on Magnetic Nanoparticles and Silicon Nitride Capacitive Transducer
Authors: Messaoud Najib Ben , Baraket Abdoullatif , Dridi Cherif , Nooredeen Naglaa. M. , Abbas Mohammed Nooredeen , Bausells Joan , Streklas Angelos , Elaissari Abdelhamid , Errachid Abdelhamid
Published: February 2018

We report in this work the development of a novel capacitance electrochemical sensors based on silicon nitride substrate (Si3N4) chemically modified with a structure of Cobalt phthalocyanine, C,C,C,C‐tetracarboxylic acid‐Polyacrylamide (Co(II)Pc‐PAA). This sensitive layer was tested with and without magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) for perchlorate (
) detection. The developed chemical sensor with Si3N4/APTES‐MNP/Co(II)Pc‐PAA structure has shown a better performance when compared to the other structure based on Si3N4/Co(II)Pc‐PAA. Contact angle measurements (CAM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) characterizations have been performed to characterize the functionalization of the chemical sensors surface. Under the optimized structure of the chemical sensor, electrochemical measurements were carried out using Mott‐Schottky analysis for
detection within the large range of 10−10 to 10−4 M with a very low detection limit of 2×10−10 M. The chemical sensor has demonstrated a high selectivity toward
when compared to other interfering anions such as Cl−, SO42−, and CO32−. The present capacitive chemical sensor is very promising for sensitive and rapid detection of
for environmental applications.
Systematic review of shorter versus longer duration of bladder catheterization after surgical repair of urinary obstetric fistula
Authors: Torloni M. Regina , Riera Rachel , Rogozińska Ewelina , Tunçalp Özge , Gülmezoglu A. Metin , Widmer Mariana
Published: February 2018

Background

Bladder catheterization duration after urinary obstetric fistula surgery varies widely.

Objective

To assess the effect of bladder catheterization duration after urinary obstetric fistula surgery.

Search strategy

Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, GIM, and POPLINE databases were searched, without language restrictions, using “obstetric urinary fistula” and “catheterization” from inception to September 30, 2017.

Selection criteria

Randomized controlled trials comparing shorter versus longer (>10 days) bladder catheterization after urinary obstetric fistula repair were included.

Data collection and analysis

Data were extracted and meta‐analyses were conducted. The GRADE system was used to assess evidence quality.

Main results

Two unblinded non‐inferiority trials (684 patients combined) were included. There were no differences between shorter and longer bladder catheterization in the risk of fistula repair breakdown either before (relative risk [RR] 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49–2.64) or after (RR 1.64; 95% CI 0.81–3.31) hospital discharge. Similarly, urinary infection (RR 5.18; 95% CI 0.25–107.44); urinary incontinence before (RR 1.15; 95% CI 0.54–2.43) or after (RR 1.16; 95% CI 0.62–2.18) discharge; urinary retention (RR 1.34; 95% CI 0.79–2.27); or extended hospital stay (RR 9.33; 95% CI 0.51–172.41) were not associated with duration of catheterization. Evidence quality was low or moderate.

Conclusions

Shorter, compared to longer, bladder catheterization duration after urinary obstetric fistula surgery was not associated with significant outcome differences.
A Complex Role for Lipocalin 2 in Bone Metabolism: Global Ablation in Mice Induces Osteopenia Caused by an Altered Energy Metabolism
Authors: Capulli Mattia , Ponzetti Marco , Maurizi Antonio , Gemini-Piperni Sara , Berger Thorsten , Mak Tak Wah , Teti Anna , Rucci Nadia
Published: February 2018

Lipocalin 2 (Lcn2) is an adipokine that carries out a variety of functions in diverse organs. We investigated the bone phenotype and the energy metabolism of Lcn2 globally deleted mice (Lcn2–/–) at different ages. Lcn2–/– mice were largely osteopenic, exhibiting lower trabecular bone volume, lesser trabecular number, and higher trabecular separation when compared to wild-type (WT) mice. Lcn2–/– mice showed a lower osteoblast number and surface over bone surface, and subsequently a significantly lower bone formation rate, while osteoclast variables were unremarkable. Surprisingly, we found no difference in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity or in nodule mineralization in Lcn2–/– calvaria osteoblast cultures, while less ALP-positive colonies were obtained from freshly isolated Lcn2–/– bone marrow stromal cells, suggesting a nonautonomous osteoblast response to Lcn2 ablation. Given that Lcn2–/– mice showed higher body weight and hyperphagia, we investigated whether their osteoblast impairment could be due to altered energy metabolism. Lcn2–/– mice showed lower fasted glycemia and hyperinsulinemia. Consistently, glucose tolerance was significantly higher in Lcn2–/– compared to WT mice, while insulin tolerance was similar. Lcn2–/– mice also exhibited polyuria, glycosuria, proteinuria, and renal cortex vacuolization, suggesting a kidney contribution to their phenotype. Interestingly, the expression of the glucose transporter protein type 1, that conveys glucose into the osteoblasts and is essential for osteogenesis, was significantly lower in the Lcn2–/– bone, possibly explaining the in vivo osteoblast impairment induced by the global Lcn2 ablation. Taken together, these results unveil an important role of Lcn2 in bone metabolism, highlighting a link with glucose metabolism that is more complex than expected from the current knowledge. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Proceedings of the 2017 ASPEN Research Workshop—Gastric Bypass: Role of the Gut
Authors: Jain Ajay Kumar , le Roux Carel W. , Puri Puneet , Tavakkoli Ali , Gletsu‐Miller Nana , Laferrère Blandine , Kellermayer Richard , DiBaise John K. , Martindale Robert G. , Wolfe Bruce M.
Published: February 2018

The goal of the National Institutes of Health–funded American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 2017 research workshop (RW) “Gastric Bypass: Role of the Gut” was to focus on the exciting research evaluating gut‐derived signals in modulating outcomes after bariatric surgery. Although gastric bypass surgery has undoubted positive effects, the mechanistic basis of improved outcomes cannot be solely explained by caloric restriction. Emerging data suggest that bile acid metabolic pathways, luminal contents, energy balance, gut mucosal integrity, as well as the gut microbiota are significantly modulated after bariatric surgery and may be responsible for the variable outcomes, each of which was rigorously evaluated. The RW served as a timely and novel academic meeting that brought together clinicians and researchers across the scientific spectrum, fostering a unique venue for interdisciplinary collaboration among investigators. It promoted engaging discussion and evolution of new research hypotheses and ideas, driving the development of novel ameliorative, therapeutic, and nonsurgical interventions targeting obesity and its comorbidities. Importantly, a critical evaluation of the current knowledge regarding gut‐modulated signaling after bariatric surgery, potential pitfalls, and lacunae were thoroughly addressed.
Strategic governance in tourist destinations
Authors: Della Corte Valentina , Aria Massimo , Del Gaudio Giovanna
Published: February 2018

This paper has a double challenge: (a) focusing on distrustful situations in interfirm collaboration; (b) clarifying the concept and role of destination governance, with specific attention to the situations of distrust or difficult processes of trust building between potential or actual partners. These objectives are verified in an empirical setting.

It has been conducted a statistical survey on tourism firms operating in Italy, and through a dependent analysis, we have verified a very low real approach towards the idea of a governing pivotal actor in these well developed tourist areas. The current study has verified whether and to what extent distrust persists and if the diffusion of trust depends on the presence of leading actors also comparing the 2 areas.
Deciphering the biochemical and molecular mechanism underlying the in vitro and in vivo chemotherapeutic efficacy of ruthenium quercetin complex in colon cancer
Authors: Roy Souvik , Das Rituparna , Ghosh Balaram , Chakraborty Tania
Published: February 2018

Flavonoids are the most investigated phytochemicals due to their pharmacological and therapeutic activities. Their ability to chelate with metal ions has resulted in the emergence of a new category of molecules with a broader spectrum of pharmacological activities. In this study, the ruthenium quercetin complex has been synthesized and anticancer activity has been evaluated on a well‐defined model of DMH followed by DSS induced rat colon cancer and on human colon cancer cell line HT‐29. The characterizations accomplished through UV‐visible, NMR, IR, Mass spectra and XRD techniques, and antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS methods. In vitro study confirmed that the complex increased p53 expression, reduced VEGF and mTOR expression, apoptosis induction, and DNA fragmentation in the HT‐29 cells. Acute and subacute toxicity study was also assessed and results from in vivo study revealed that complex was efficient to suppress ACF multiplicity and hyperplastic lesions and elevated the CAT, SOD, and glutathione levels. Furthermore, the complex was found to decrease cell proliferation and increased apoptotic events in tumor cells correlates upregulation of p53 and Bax and downregulation of Bcl2 expression. Our findings from the in vitro and in vivo study support the continued investigation of ruthenium quercetin complex possesses a potential chemotherapeutic activity against colon cancer and was efficient in reducing ACF multiplicity, hyperplastic lesions in the colon tissues of rats by inducing apoptosis.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy for Gait Dysfunction in Advanced Parkinson's Disease Patients
Authors: Samotus Olivia , Parrent Andrew , Jog Mandar
Published: February 2018

Background: Benefits of dopaminergic therapy and deep brain stimulation are limited and unpredictable for axial symptoms in Parkinson's disease. Dorsal spinal cord stimulation may be a new therapeutic approach. The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of spinal cord stimulation on gait including freezing of gait in advanced PD patients.

Methods: Five male PD participants with significant gait disturbances and freezing of gait underwent midthoracic spinal cord stimulation. Spinal cord stimulation combinations (200‐500 μs/30‐130 Hz) at suprathreshold intensity were tested over a 1‐ to 4‐month period, and the effects of spinal cord stimulation were studied 6 months after spinal cord stimulation surgery. Protokinetics Walkway measured gait parameters. Z scores per gait variable established each participant's best spinal cord stimulation setting. Timed sit‐to‐stand and automated freezing‐of‐gait detection using foot pressures were analyzed. Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOG‐Q), UPDRS motor items, and activities‐specific balance confidence scale were completed at each study visit.

Results: Spinal cord stimulation setting combinations of 300‐400 μs/30‐130 Hz provided gait improvements. Although on‐medication/on‐stimulation at 6 months, mean step length, stride velocity, and sit‐to‐stand improved by 38.8%, 42.3%, and 50.3%, respectively, mean UPDRS, Freezing of Gait Questionnaire, and activities‐specific balance confidence scale scores improved by 33.5%, 26.8%, and 71.4%, respectively. The mean number of freezing‐of‐gait episodes reduced significantly from 16 presurgery to 0 at 6 months while patients were on levodopa and off stimulation.

Conclusions: By using objective measures to detect dynamic gait characteristics, the therapeutic potential of spinal cord stimulation was optimized to each participant's characteristics. This pilot study demonstrated the safety and significant therapeutic outcome of spinal cord stimulation in advanced PD patients, and thus a larger and longer clinical study will be conducted to replicate these results. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Fast algorithm of adaptive Fourier series
Authors: Gao You , Ku Min , Qian Tao
Published: February 2018

Adaptive Fourier decomposition (AFD, precisely 1‐D AFD or Core‐AFD) was originated for the goal of positive frequency representations of signals. It achieved the goal and at the same time offered fast decompositions of signals. There then arose several types of AFDs. The AFD merged with the greedy algorithm idea, and in particular, motivated the so‐called pre‐orthogonal greedy algorithm (pre‐OGA) that was proven to be the most efficient greedy algorithm. The cost of the advantages of the AFD‐type decompositions is, however, the high computational complexity due to the involvement of maximal selections of the dictionary parameters. The present paper constructs one novel method to perform the 1‐D AFD algorithm. We make use of the FFT algorithm to reduce the algorithm complexity, from the original
to
, where N denotes the number of the discretization points on the unit circle and M denotes the number of points in [0,1). This greatly enhances the applicability of AFD. Experiments are performed to show the high efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
On the blow‐up phenomena for a 1‐dimensional equation of ion sound waves in a plasma: Analytical and numerical investigation
Authors: Korpusov M.O. , Lukyanenko D.V. , Panin A.A. , Shlyapugin G.I.
Published: February 2018

The initial‐boundary value problem for an equation of ion sound waves in plasma is considered. A theorem on nonextendable solution is proved. The blow‐up phenomena are studied. The sufficient blow‐up conditions and the blow‐up time are analysed by the method of the test functions. This analytical a priori information is used in the numerical experiments, which are able to determine the process of the solution's blow‐up more accurately.
Novel fibrous composites based on electrospun PSF and PVDF ultrathin fibers reinforced with inorganic nanoparticles: Evaluation as oil spill sorbents
Authors: Pascariu Dorneanu Petronela , Cojocaru Corneliu , Samoila Petrisor , Olaru Niculae , Airinei Anton , Rotaru Aurelian
Published: February 2018

Oil spill accidents and oily wastewaters induce a negative impact to the environment and human health. Therefore, the developing of new sorbent materials to combat promptly such type of pollution is of great interest. In this work, poly(vinylidene fluoride) and polysulfone ultrathin fibers reinforced with Halloysite nanoclay and CoFe2O4 were developed via electrospinning method as composite sorbent materials. Fibrous composites were characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The magnetic property and the wetting behavior were ascertained by magnetometric and contact angle measurements, respectively. Results showed that the morphology of fibers was homogeneous, and the inorganic particles were properly dispersed within the polymeric matrix. Finally, sorbents were tested for sorption of oily liquids. Produced materials revealed the sorption capacities ranging from 3.70 to 10.01 g/g for poly(vinylidene fluoride)‐based composites, and from 15.69 to 28.21 g/g for polysulfone‐based composites, depending on the nature of tested oil.
New high impact polystyrene: Use of poly(1‐hexene) and poly(1‐hexene‐co‐hexadiene) as impact modifiers
Authors: Nazari Davood , Bahri‐Laleh Naeimeh , Nekoomanesh‐Haghighi Mehdi , Jalilian Seyed Mehrdad , Rezaie Razieh , Mirmohammadi Seyed Amin
Published: February 2018

In this study, polystyrene (PS) was melt blended with different amounts of poly1‐hexene (PH) and poly(1‐hexene‐co‐hexadiene) (COPOLY) and the blends were compared with conventional PS/polybutadiene (PS/PB) one. Scanning electron microscope revealed that the dispersion of PH and COPOLY in PS matrix was more uniform with the appearance of small particles in PS matrix; however, in the case of PS/PB blends, the fracture surface showed nonhomogenous morphology with the appearance of bigger rubber particles. Based on Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis results, Tg of the blends decreased in comparison with it in neat PS. Impact strength of PS/PH and PS/COPOLY blends was considerably higher than that in PS/PB and significantly higher than the value for neat PS. Tensile test showed substantial improvement in stress at yield and better elongation at break for COPOLY containing blend than the samples containing PH and PB rubbers. Also, blending of PS with 10% of the rubbers was considered in the presence of dicumylperoxide as a probable grafting/cross‐linking agent to produce XPS/COPOLY10 and XPS/PB10 samples, respectively. IR results of the nonsoluble solvent extracted gel showed that COPOLY and PB were grafted to PS matrix during melt blending, which caused higher impact strength in the related samples.
Human papillomavirus genome integration in squamous carcinogenesis: what have next‐generation sequencing studies taught us?
Authors: Groves Ian J , Coleman Nicholas
Published: February 2018

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is associated with ∼5% of all human cancers, including a range of squamous cell carcinomas. Persistent infection by high‐risk HPVs (HRHPVs) is associated with the integration of virus genomes (which are usually stably maintained as extrachromosomal episomes) into host chromosomes. Although HRHPV integration rates differ across human sites of infection, this process appears to be an important event in HPV‐associated neoplastic progression, leading to deregulation of virus oncogene expression, host gene expression modulation, and further genomic instability. However, the mechanisms by which HRHPV integration occur and by which the subsequent gene expression changes take place are incompletely understood. The advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) of both RNA and DNA has allowed powerful interrogation of the association of HRHPVs with human disease, including precise determination of the sites of integration and the genomic rearrangements at integration loci. In turn, these data have indicated that integration occurs through two main mechanisms: looping integration and direct insertion. Improved understanding of integration sites is allowing further investigation of the factors that provide a competitive advantage to some integrants during disease progression. Furthermore, advanced approaches to the generation of genome‐wide samples have given novel insights into the three‐dimensional interactions within the nucleus, which could act as another layer of epigenetic control of both virus and host transcription. It is hoped that further advances in NGS techniques and analysis will not only allow the examination of further unanswered questions regarding HPV infection, but also direct new approaches to treating HPV‐associated human disease. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Miniaturizing EM Sample Preparation: Opportunities, Challenges, and “Visual Proteomics”
Authors: Arnold Stefan A. , Müller Shirley A. , Schmidli Claudio , Syntychaki Anastasia , Rima Luca , Chami Mohamed , Stahlberg Henning , Goldie Kenneth N. , Braun Thomas
Published: February 2018

This review compares and discusses conventional versus miniaturized specimen preparation methods for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The progress brought by direct electron detector cameras, software developments and automation have transformed transmission cryo‐electron microscopy (cryo‐EM) and made it an invaluable high‐resolution structural analysis tool. In contrast, EM specimen preparation has seen very little progress in the last decades and is now one of the main bottlenecks in cryo‐EM. Here, we discuss the challenges faced by specimen preparation for single particle EM, highlight current developments, and show the opportunities resulting from the advanced miniaturized and microfluidic sample grid preparation methods described, such as visual proteomics and time‐resolved cryo‐EM studies.
Performance Characterization of Infrared Detectors Based on Polymorphous Silicon‐Germanium (pm‐SixGe1−x:H) Thin Films Deposited at Low Temperature
Authors: Jiménez Ricardo , Moreno Mario , Torres Alfonso , Rosales Pedro , Sanz María T. , Ambrosio Roberto
Published: February 2018

In this work, the fabrication of infrared detectors (uncooled microbolometers) using surface micromachining techniques is presented. The thermo‐sensing film used in the devices is polymorphous silicon‐germanium (pm‐SixGe1−x:H) produced by low frequency plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) at low temperature (200 °C). Polymorphous semiconductors basically are amorphous semiconductors with embedded nanocrystals (of diameter of about 2–5 nm), which are formed during the film deposition. The presence of nanocrystals impacts on the properties of the material by reducing the density of states (defects) and improving the stability of the films. For infrared detectors those materials present important properties such as high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR = −4.7% K−1), long‐term stability, low deposition temperature, and silicon CMOS compatibility. Test structures with size of 50 × 50 μm2 and different thermal isolation designs are characterized under IR radiation (0.7–20 μm) in a frequency range of 5–100 Hz. From voltage responsivity and noise measurements, the specific detectivity is calculated achieving values of 1 × 108 cm Hz1/2 W−1 and thermal response time of 8–9 ms under 150 nA bias current. The above characteristics make those devices very suitable for the development of infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPAs).
Folding DNA Origami Nanolevers From Differently Prepared Scaffold Strands
Authors: Heerwig Andreas , Lenhart Julia , Kroener Felix , Rant Ulrich , Mertig Michael
Published: February 2018

The use of length‐predefined DNA origami constructs acting as nanolevers in the analysis of protein binding kinetics requires an optimized and cost‐efficient nanolever assembly, and therefore, a customized scaffold strand synthesis. In this paper, a top‐down and a bottom‐up approach for the fabrication of two scaffold strands of customized length for predefined DNA origami structures are presented. Three different origami structures are synthesized and analyzed in terms of accuracy of shape, yield as well as the costs attributed to each fabrication route.
Electromechanical Properties of Lead‐Free Nb‐Doped 0.95Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐0.05BaZrO3 Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Hussain Ali , Maqbool Adnan , Malik Rizwan Ahmed , Qazi Ibrahim , Song Tae‐Kwon , Kim Won‐Jeong , Kim Myong‐Ho
Published: February 2018

Lead‐free piezoelectric 0.95(Bi0.5Na0.5Ti1−xNbx)O3‐0.05BaZrO3 (BNTN‐BZ5) ceramics (with x = 0–0.02) are synthesized by a conventional mixed oxide route. The crystalline phase, microstructure and electromechanical properties of the BNTN‐BZ5 are investigated as a function of different Nb content. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows the formation of single phase perovskite structure for all samples. The polarization response decrease while the dielectric and field‐induced strain response increase when a small amount (x = 0.005) of Nb is incorporated in 0.95(Bi0.5Na0.5Ti)O3‐0.05BaZrO3 (BNT‐BZ5). An enhanced field‐induced strain (Smax = 0.37%) with a corresponding dynamic piezoelectric coefficient (d*33) of 542 pm V−1 is observed for x = 0.005 at an applied electric field of 7 kV mm−1.
Excellent Charge‐Storage Properties of Polystyrene/SFXs Electret Films by Repeated Contact with an AFM Probe
Authors: Wang Jin , Xu Jiao‐Jiao , Wang Xiao , Cao Hong‐Tao , Xie Ling‐Hai , Yi Ming‐Dong , Huang Wei
Published: February 2018

The stability of charges trapped by the single‐contact and repeated‐contact modes with atomic force microscopy (AFM) probe for polystyrene/cruciformed spiro [fluorene‐9,9′‐xanthene] (PS/SFXs) electret films is detected by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). The influences of the contact duration and number of contacts on the trapped charges are explored. We found that the contact duration and number of contacts are important factors to improve the trapping property. The repeated contacts between the AFM probe and the sample are a promising way to improve the stability of trapped charges in PS/SFXs. The possible mechanisms for improving storage properties are also discussed.
Solution‐Processed Composite Interfacial Layer of MoOx‐Doped Graphene Oxide for Robust Hole Injection in Organic Light‐Emitting Diode
Authors: Zheng Qinghong , Li Wanshu , Zhang Yan , Xu Kai , Xu Jiwen , Wang Hua , Xiong Jian , Zhang Xiuyun , Zhang Xiaowen
Published: February 2018

Solution‐processed composite hole injection interfacial layer (HIL) of MoOx‐doped graphene oxide (GO + MoOx) is facilely fabricated. Using GO + MoOx HIL, we demonstrate highly efficient tris(8‐hydroxy‐quinolinato)aluminum‐based organic light‐emitting diodes with maximum luminous efficiency of 8.6 cd A−1, power efficiency of 5.7 lm W−1, and external quantum efficiency of 3.5%, which have been enhanced by 41.0% (75.5%), 39.0% (96.6%), and 40.0% (75.0%), respectively, in comparison with the counterpart using simple HIL of MoOx (GO). Atomic force microscopy and X‐ray/ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy measurements show GO + MoOx behaving superior film morphology and extra electronic properties such as enhanced surface work function. Current–voltage characteristics and impedance spectroscopy of hole only cells elucidate that GO + MoOx substantially promotes hole injection and thus accounts for excellent device performance. Our results pave a way for advancing organic electronic devices with solution process as well as boosting GO application.
Development of an active packaging with molecularly imprinted polymers for beef preservation
Authors: Huang Yun'an , Zeng Xuefeng , Zhu Qiujin , Lu Kuan , Xu Qian , Ye Chun
Published: February 2018

To develop molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for new food packaging material, a new active antibacterial packaging material was prepared with allyl isothiocyanate MIPs (AITC‐MIPs) and chitosan (CS) for beef preservation. AITC‐MIPs were prepared with AITC as template, β‐CD as the functional monomer, and TDI as the cross‐linker by the non‐covalent method, and the release characteristics were evaluated under different relative humidities and temperatures. The AITC‐MIPs active packaging film was obtained by uniform coating with CS coating solution and AITC‐MIPs based on the surface of the original low‐density polyethylene packaging film, and its role in delaying muscle metamorphism was thoroughly explored. According to the N‐hexane extraction method, the AITC content in AITC‐MIPs was determined to be 73.9 μL/g. The release behaviors of AITC‐MIPs under different humidities could be obtained by fitting with Avrami's Equation. The release of AITC‐MIPs under the relative humidities of 98% and 75% is a restricted dynamic diffusion process, while the release behaviors of AITC‐MIPs under the relative humidity of 50% are between those of a diffusion process and those of a first‐order mode dynamic process. The AITC‐MIPs could endure the heat stress, and the lower temperature was conducive to the stability of the AITC‐MIPs. A series of physicochemical and microbiological indicators fully illustrated that muscle deterioration could be significantly (P < 0.05) postponed by AITC‐MIPs active packaging film compared with the original low‐density polyethylene packaging film.