bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bulky Counterions: Enhancing the Two‐Photon Excited Fluorescence of Gold Nanoclusters
Authors: Bertorelle Franck , Moulin Christophe , Soleilhac Antonin , Comby‐Zerbino Clothilde , Dugourd Philippe , Russier‐Antoine Isabelle , Brevet Pierre‐François , Antoine Rodolphe
Published: November 2017

Increasing fluorescence quantum yields of ligand‐protected gold nanoclusters has attracted wide research interest. The strategy consisting in using bulky counterions has been found to dramatically enhance the fluorescence. In this Communication, we push forward this concept to the nonlinear optical regime. We show that by an appropriate choice of bulky counterions and of solvent, a 30‐fold increase in two‐photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) signal at ≈600 nm for gold nanoclusters can be obtained. This would correspond to a TPEF cross‐section in the range of 0.1 to 1 GM.
The Quest for Sulfur‐Containing Photoactive Materials: Molecular Precursors, Structures and Applications
Authors: Hennessey Seán , Farràs Pau
Published: November 2017

This Minireview summarises the most relevant work on sulfur‐containing systems and provides direction towards the preparation of novel photoactive materials. This contribution overviews the synthesis of sulfur‐containing organic ligands and metal complexes and their incorporation in surfaces, nanoparticles and frameworks, with the aim to highlight the most relevant applications of such materials. We focus on the use of sulfur‐containing anchoring groups to prepare advanced materials, although examples in which thiols provide decisive properties are also included, for example, stabilization of gold nanoparticles. From these, we provide a series of research directions that we and others are currently exploring to prepare new photoactive materials containing sulfur. These materials will take advantage of the plasmonic properties of thiol‐capped gold and silver nanoparticles and their use to enhance energy‐conversion technologies.
Artificial Photosynthesis for Production of ATP, NAD(P)H, and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Fukuzumi Shunichi , Lee Yong‐Min , Nam Wonwoo
Published: November 2017

The initial product of photosynthesis is NADPH (dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), which is produced from the oxidized form (NADP+) by reduction with two electrons and one proton released from Photosystem I (PSI) via ferredoxin. The proton gradient generated across the thylakoid membrane produces a proton‐motive force, which is utilized to synthesize ATP by the use of ATP synthase. NADPH is used as a hydride source in the Calvin–Benson cycle to produce sugars by photosynthesis. In addition to NADP+, PSI can reduce O2 by two electrons with two protons to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which can be used as a fuel in H2O2 fuel cells. This Minireview focuses on artificial photosynthetic systems to produce the products of natural photosynthesis, such as ATP, NAD(P)H and H2O2 from NAD+ and O2 with water using solar energy, respectively. ATP was produced by use of an artificial photosynthetic membrane, composed of a photosynthetic reaction center mimic that pumps protons into the interior of the liposome, where F‐type ATP synthase was incorporated. Solar‐driven catalytic water splitting produces hydrogen, which can reduce NAD+ to NADH with an iridium complex catalyst in a slightly alkaline solution at room temperature. H2O2 has been produced by the combination of four‐electron oxidation of H2O with four protons to evolve O2 and two‐electron/two‐proton reduction of O2 under sun‐light irradiation. H2O2 can also be produced by direct reaction of H2 and O2 by the combination of an iridium complex catalyst and flavin coenzyme.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Ammonia from Water and Nitrogen: A Lithium‐Mediated Approach Using Lithium‐Ion Conducting Glass Ceramics
Authors: Kim Kwiyong , Lee Seung Jong , Kim Dong‐Yeon , Yoo Chung‐Yul , Choi Jang Wook , Kim Jong‐Nam , Woo Youngmin , Yoon Hyung Chul , Han Jong‐In
Published: November 2017

Lithium‐mediated reduction of dinitrogen is a promising method to evade electron‐stealing hydrogen evolution, a critical challenge which limits faradaic efficiency (FE) and thus hinders the success of traditional protic‐solvent‐based ammonia electro‐synthesis. A viable implementation of the lithium‐mediated pathway using lithium‐ion conducting glass ceramics involves i) lithium deposition, ii) nitridation, and iii) ammonia formation. Ammonia was successfully synthesized from molecular nitrogen and water, yielding a maximum FE of 52.3 %. With an ammonia synthesis rate comparable to previously reported approaches, the fairly high FE demonstrates the possibility of using this nitrogen fixation strategy as a substitute for firmly established, yet exceedingly complicated and expensive technology, and in so doing represents a next‐generation energy storage system.
Planetary physics research programme at the Facility for Antiprotons and Ion Research at Darmstadt
Authors: Tahir N.A. , Lomonosov I.V. , Borm B. , Piriz A.R. , Neumayer P. , Shutov A. , Bagnoud V. , Piriz S.A
Published: November 2017

Planetary physics research is an important part of the high energy density (HED) physics programme at the Facility for Antiprotons and Ion Research (FAIR) at Darmstadt. In this paper, we report numerical simulations of a proposed experiment named LAboratory PLAnetary Sciences (LAPLAS). These simulations show that in such experiments, an Fe sample can be imploded to extreme physical conditions that are expected to exist in the interior of the Earth and in the interior of more massive rocky planets named, super‐Earths. The LAPLAS experiments will thus provide very valuable information on the equation‐of‐state (EOS) and transport properties of HED Fe, which will help the scientists to understand the structure and evolution of the planets in our solar system and of the extrasolar system planets.
Functional characterization of CYP2C19 variants in nebivolol 4‐hydroxlation in vitro
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Yang , Hu Xiao‐Xia , Li Meng‐Fang , Wang Hao , Zhang Li‐Qun , Hu Guo‐Xin , Cai Jian‐Ping
Published: November 2017

Cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) allelic variants are thought to play an important part in inter‐individual variability in drug metabolism. We evaluated the in vitro hydroxylation of nebivolol by 31 CYP2C19 alleles identified in a Chinese Han population recently. Wild‐type CYP2C19*1B and 30 isoforms were highly expressed in insect cells, and the enzymatic activities of CYP2C19 variants towards nebivolol hydroxylation were characterized. Among the 30 CYP2C19 alleles, most of the recombinant CYP2C19 variants exhibited no or significantly low activity compared with CYP2C19*1B. Three variants, CYP2C19*29 (K28I), L16F, and CYP2C19*23 (G91R), showed increased intrinsic clearance of >140% CYP2C19*1B. Combined with a previous study on the effects of CYP2D6 variants on nebivolol metabolism, our comprehensive analyses on the enzymatic activities of CYP2C19 variants towards nebivolol in the present study may contribute to determination of the optimal doses of nebivolol for the treatment of hypertension and understanding of “individualized” medication.
Syntheses, Structures, and Magnetic Properties of Symmetric and Dissymmetric Ester‐Functionalized 3d‐4f Schiff Base Complexes
Authors: Béreau Virginie , Dhers Sébastien , Costes Jean‐Pierre , Duhayon Carine , Sutter Jean‐Pascal
Published: November 2017

Ester‐functionalized bicompartmental Schiff base ligands and their 3d‐Ln complexes (3d = NiII, CuII, or ZnII and Ln = GdIII, TbIII, or DyIII) are reported. The modularity of the Schiff base structure (i.e., symmetric ester group compared with dissymmetric ester group) is illustrated to highlight the possibility offered by the ester for facile functionalization at the periphery of the ligand, in addition to its electron‐withdrawing effect on the complexing core. The introduction of a chiral pool (i.e., a menthyl group) at the ester functions led to a transfer of chirality to the coordination sphere of the Ln in the solid state. Several 3d‐4f complexes were found to crystallize as (NO3–)‐ or (OH–)‐bridged compounds. Crystal structures and magnetic behaviors are reported for all of the 3d‐4f complexes.
Coordination Chemistry of the PdmBOX Pincer Ligand: Reactivity at the Metal and the Ligand
Authors: Wenz Jan , Vasilenko Vladislav , Kochan Alexander , Wadepohl Hubert , Gade Lutz H.
Published: November 2017

The coordination chemistry of PdmBOX [2,5‐bis(2‐oxazolinyldimethylmethyl)pyrrole] pincer ligands, in which a dimethylmethylidene linker has been introduced to preclude rearrangements in the backbone, has been studied with 3d and 4d late transition metals. The in situ lithiated PdmBOX ligand was treated with MnCl2, FeCl2 and CoCl2 to give [iPr(PdmBOX)MCl] (M = Mn: 2; Fe: 3; Co: 4) which were found to adopt a distorted tetrahedral coordination geometry in the crystal. Addition of 2,6‐dimethylphenylisocyanide to 3 gave the diamagnetic tris(isocyanide) derivative [iPr(PdmBOX)Fe(CNxyl)3]Cl (5) with the chloride as the counteranion. Complexes 2–4 were found to be precatalysts for the enantioselective hydrosilylation and hydroboration of acetophenone. The synthesis of PdmBOX‐palladium(II) complexes was achieved by deprotonation of the protioligand with potassium bis(trimethylsilyl)amide (KHMDS) and subsequent reaction with [(cod)PdCl2] giving [iPr(PdmBOX)PdCl] (6) or by stirring (S)‐iPr(PdmBOX)H with palladium acetate yielding the palladium acetato complex 7. Treatment of the latter with phenylsilane at 60 °C also led to the slow formation of the metal hydride complex which was the key species in the catalytic hydrosilylation of styrene oxide, albeit with low activity. The coordination of (S)‐iPr(PdmBOX)H to rhodium(I) was accomplished by reaction with (acetylacetonato)dicarbonylrhodium(I) to give the corresponding PdmBOX‐Rh complex 8 which reacted with methyl iodide to give the octahedrally coordinated rhodium(III) complex [iPr(PdmBOX)Rh(CH3)I(CO)] 9. Reaction of 8 with one equivalent of CsBr3 led to the full conversion to the dibromorhodium(III) complex [iPr(PdmBOX)Rh(CO)Br2] 10. Upon reaction of 10 with N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS), the pyrrole backbone in 10 was brominated to give complex 11. In a similar way, a selective conversion of [iPr(PdmBOX)NiCl] to the backbone‐chlorinated [iPr(ClPdmBOX)NiCl] (12) was achieved by the treatment with N‐chlorosuccinimide.
Cities and “budget‐based” management of the energy‐water‐climate nexus: Case studies in transportation policy, infrastructure systems, and urban utility risk management
Authors: Sperling Joshua B. , Ramaswami Anu
Published: November 2017

This article reviews city case studies to inform a framework for developing urban infrastructure design standards and policy instruments that together aim to pursue energy efficiency and greenhouse gas mitigation through city carbon budgets and water use efficiency and climate risk adaptation through city water budgets. This article also proposes combining carbon and water budgeting at the city‐scale for achieving successful coupled city carbon and water budget (CCCWB) programs. Under a CCCWB program, key actors including local governments, infrastructure designers/operators, and households would be assigned a GHG emissions and water “budget” and be required by state or federal levels to keep within this budget through the use of flexibility mechanisms, incentive programs, and sanctions. Multiple incentives and cross‐scale governance arrangements would be tied to energy‐water systems integration, resource‐efficient transportation and infrastructure development, and effective monitoring and management of energy use, emissions, climate risks to, and security of energy‐water‐transport‐food and other critical systems. As a first step to promote strategies for CCCWB development, we systematically review approaches of and shortcomings to existing budget‐based programs in the UK and US, and suggest improvements in three areas: measurement, modeling effectiveness of interventions for staying within a budget, and governance. To date, the majority of climate action or sustainability plans by cities, while mentioning climate impacts as a premise for the plan, do not address these impacts in the plan. They focus primarily on GHG mitigation while ignoring resource depletion challenges and energy‐climate‐water linkages, whereby water supplies can begin to limit energy production and energy shifts to mitigate climate change can limit water availability. Coupled carbon‐water budget plans, programs, and policies—described in this study‐ may address these concerns as well as the emerging trends that will exacerbate these problems—e.g., including population growth, climatic changes, and emerging policy choices that are not coordinated. Cities and “Budget‐Based” Management of the Energy‐Water‐Climate Nexus: Case Studies to Inform Strategy for Integrated Performance‐ and Incentive‐Based Design and Policy Instruments. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 91–107, 2018
Prediction of environmental cognition to undesired environmental behavior—the interaction effect of environmental context
Authors: Chen Feiyu , Chen Hong , Long Ruyin , Long Qianyi
Published: November 2017

There exists a complex relationship between cognition and behavior. Based on the characteristic that individuals have negative effects on the environment, this article defined the concept of undesired environmental behavior and explored the interaction effect of environmental context in the phenomenon of “disunity of cognition and behavior.” According to the survey data of Chinese residents, three main factors of the individual's environmental context were identified through factor analysis, including social norm, policy and regulation, and facilities support. The results of hierarchical linear regression show that: (1) Both environmental cognition and environmental context can significantly predict undesired environmental behavior, and social norm as well as facilities support can inhibit undesired environmental behavior except policy and regulation; (2) Undesired environmental behavior is affected by the interactions between environmental cognition and environmental context. Particularly, social norm and facilities support have influences on the relationship between environmental cognition and environmental context, and the relationship between the two is most influenced by facilities support. Finally, this article put forward related policy implications. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1361–1370, 2018
Parental Expressed Emotion During Two Forms of Family‐Based Treatment for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Allan Erica , Le Grange Daniel , Sawyer Susan M. , McLean Louise A. , Hughes Elizabeth K.
Published: November 2017

High parental expressed emotion (EE), reflected by criticism or emotional over‐involvement, has been related to poorer outcome in family‐based treatment (FBT) for adolescent anorexia nervosa. This study assessed EE in 89 mothers and 64 fathers at baseline and end of treatment in a randomised trial comparing conjoint FBT to parent‐focused FBT (PFT). Compared with conjoint FBT, PFT was associated with a decrease in maternal criticism, regardless of adolescent remission. Furthermore, an increase in maternal criticism was more likely to be observed in conjoint FBT (80%) than PFT (20%, p = 0.001). Adolescents of mothers who demonstrated an increase in EE, or remained high in EE, were less likely to remit compared with adolescents for whom EE decreased or remained low (33% and 0% vs. 43% and 50%, p = 0.03). There were no significant effects for paternal EE. The results highlight the importance of considering EE when implementing FBT for adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Emotional Reactivity and Appraisal of Food in Relation to Eating Disorder Cognitions and Behaviours: Evidence to Support the Motivational Conflict Hypothesis
Authors: Racine Sarah E. , Hebert Karen R. , Benning Stephen D.
Published: November 2017

Eating disorders are associated with both negative and positive emotional reactions towards food. Individual eating disorder symptoms may relate to distinct emotional responses to food, which could necessitate tailored treatments based on symptom presentation. We examined associations between eating disorder symptoms and psychophysiological responses to food versus neutral images in 87 college students [mean (SD) age = 19.70 (2.09); mean (SD) body mass index = 23.25(2.77)]. Reflexive and facial electromyography measures tapping negative emotional reactivity (startle blink reflex) and appraisal (corrugator muscle response) as well as positive emotional reactivity (postauricular reflex) and appraisal (zygomaticus muscle response) were collected. Eating disorder cognitions correlated with more corrugator activity to food versus neutral images, indicating negative appraisals of food. Binge eating was associated with increased postauricular reflex reactivity to food versus neutral images, suggesting enhanced appetitive motivation to food. The combination of cognitive eating disorder symptoms and binge eating may result in motivational conflict towards food. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Radiocarbon dating and stable carbon isotopic analyses of Neolithic and Bronze Age staple crops in the lower Yellow River area and their paleodietary implications
Authors: Chen Xue‐Xiang , Yu Shi‐Yong , Underhill Anne P. , Fang Hui
Published: November 2017

The stable carbon isotope ratio of archaeological human skeletons has been increasingly used to reconstruct paleodiet, which in turn may provide deep insight into the origin and spread of agriculture. However, little is known about the spatial and temporal variability of some staple crops in many areas of the world. Here, we present radiocarbon ages and stable carbon isotope data of charred millet and rice grains from 14 Neolithic and Bronze Age archaeological sites in the lower Yellow River area, a region which has not been adequately considered. The mean δ13C value of prehistoric millet grains is −9.13‰, which is ca. 2‰ higher than that of modern millet grains. The mean δ13C value of prehistoric rice grains is −24.14‰, which is very close to that of modern rice grains. Our study not only provides updated information that facilitates a more precise reconstruction of human paleodiet based on δ13C analysis of skeletal remains, but also supports previous conclusions that C4 plants can be used as a reliable proxy for atmospheric carbon isotopic composition.
The impact of long‐term care on quality of life
Authors: Forder Julien , Vadean Florin , Rand Stacey , Malley Juliette
Published: November 2017

Long‐term care services are provided to help people manage the consequences of impairment, but their impact goes beyond the meeting of basic needs. Accordingly, the main aim was to explore the marginal effectiveness of care when measured in terms of people's overall care‐related quality of life (CRQoL) and assess changes in marginal effect for increasing intensity. The associated aim was to refine and apply an observational method to estimate marginal effectiveness. A “production function” approach was used with survey data, including Adult Social Care Outcomes Toolkit‐measured CRQoL, whereby we statistically modelled the expected relationship between service utilisation rates and CRQoL. This method seeks to limit endogeneity issues by controlling on observables and using instrumental variable. Using a survey of publicly funded long‐term care service users in England, we found that community‐based long‐term care significantly improved people's CRQoL but with diminishing marginal effects and effects differentiated by baseline impairment levels. There are implications for how the care system should respond to changes in global public budgets. For example, where there is unmet need, a system aimed to maximise (unadjusted) CRQoL would put more emphasis on access (more recipients) than intensity of support compared to a system operating on a needs basis.
B lymphocytes limit senescence‐driven fibrosis resolution and favor hepatocarcinogenesis in mouse liver injury
Authors: Faggioli Francesca , Palagano Eleonora , Di Tommaso Luca , Donadon Matteo , Marrella Veronica , Recordati Camilla , Mantero Stefano , Villa Anna , Vezzoni Paolo , Cassani Barbara
Published: November 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a frequent neoplasia and a leading cause of inflammation‐related cancer mortality. Despite that most HCCs arise from persistent inflammatory conditions, pathways linking chronic inflammation to cancer development are still incompletely elucidated. We dissected the role of adaptive immunity in the Mdr2 knockout (Mdr2
–/–) mouse, a model of inflammation‐associated cancer, in which ablation of adaptive immunity has been induced genetically (Rag2
–/–
Mdr2
–/– and μMt‐Mdr2–/–
mice) or with in vivo treatments using lymphocyte‐specific depleting antibodies (anti‐CD20 or anti‐CD4/CD8). We found that activated B and T lymphocytes, secreting fibrogenic tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and other proinflammatory cytokines, infiltrated liver of the Mdr2
–/– mice during chronic fibrosing cholangitis. Lymphocyte ablation, in the Rag2
–/–
Mdr2
–/– and μMt‐Mdr2–/–
mice, strongly suppressed hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and extracellular matrix deposition, enhancing HSC transition to cellular senescence. Moreover, lack of lymphocytes changed the intrahepatic metabolic/oxidative state, resulting in skewed macrophage polarization toward an anti‐inflammatory M2 phenotype. Remarkably, hepatocarcinogenesis was significantly suppressed in the Rag2
–/–
Mdr2
–/– mice, correlating with reduced TNFα/NF‐κB (nuclear factor kappa B) pathway activation. Ablation of CD20+ B cells, but not of CD4+/CD8+ T cells, in Mdr2
–/– mice, promoted senescence‐mediated fibrosis resolution and inhibited the protumorigenic TNFα/NF‐κB pathway. Interestingly, presence of infiltrating B cells correlated with increased tumor aggressiveness and reduced disease‐free survival in human HCC. Conclusion: Adaptive immunity sustains liver fibrosis (LF) and favors HCC growth in chronic injury, by modulating innate components of inflammation and limiting the extent of HSC senescence. Therapies designed for B‐cell targeting may be an effective strategy in LF. (Hepatology 2018;67:1970‐1985).
Activin A is a prominent autocrine regulator of hepatocyte growth arrest
Authors: Haridoss Srividyameena , Yovchev Mladen I. , Schweizer Hannah , Megherhi Sabreen , Beecher Maria , Locker Joseph , Oertel Michael
Published: November 2017

Activin A, a multifunctional cytokine, plays an important role in hepatocyte growth suppression and is involved in liver size control. The present study was aimed to determine the cell location of activin A in the normal rat liver microenvironment and the contribution of activin A signaling to the hepatocyte phenotype to obtain insight into molecular mechanisms. Immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization analyses identified hepatocytes as the major activin A‐positive cell population in normal liver and identified mast cells as an additional activin A source. To investigate paracrine and autocrine activin A‐stimulated effects, hepatocytes were cocultured with engineered activin A‐secreting cell lines (RF1, TL8) or transduced with an adeno‐associated virus vector encoding activin βA, which led to strikingly altered expression of cell cycle‐related genes (Ki‐67, E2F transcription factor 1 [E2F1], minichromosome maintenance complex component 2 [Mcm2], forkhead box M1 [FoxM1]) and senescence‐related genes (cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 2B [p15INK4b/CDKN2B], differentiated embryo‐chondrocyte expressed gene 1 [DEC1]) and reduced proliferation and induction of senescence. Microarray analyses identified 453 differentially expressed genes, many of which were not yet recognized as activin A downstream targets (e.g., ADAM metallopeptidase domain 12 [Adam12], semaphorin 7A [Sema7a], LIM and cysteine‐rich domains‐1 [Lmcd1], DAB2, clathrin adaptor protein [Dab2]). Among the main activin A‐mediated molecular/cellular functions are cellular growth/proliferation and movement, molecular transport, and metabolic processes containing highly down‐regulated genes, such as cytochrome P450, subfamily 2, polypeptide 11 (Cyp2C11), sulfotransferase family 1A, member 1 (Sult1a1), glycine‐N‐acyltransferase (Glyat), and bile acid‐CoA:amino acid N‐acyltransferase (Baat). Moreover, Ingenuity Pathway Analyses identified particular gene networks regulated by hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF)‐4α and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) as key targets of activin A signaling. Conclusion: Our in vitro models demonstrated that activin A‐stimulated growth inhibition and cellular senescence is mediated through p15INK4b/CDKN2B and is associated with up‐ and down‐regulation of numerous target genes involved in multiple biological processes performed by hepatocytes, suggesting that activin A fulfills a critical role in normal liver function. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:852‐870)
Transcriptional and translational‐uncoupling in regulation of the CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4, 7 in THP‐1 monocytes and macrophages
Authors: Yu Lu , Yu Liangli , Pham Quynhchi , Wang Thomas T. Y.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

The chemokine CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4 and 7 play crucial roles in the immune system. In the present study, regulation of this pathway was further examined using the in‐vitro model of undifferentiated human THP‐1 monocytes (u‐THP‐1) and phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA)‐differentiated THP‐1 macrophages (d‐THP‐1), to assess the effects of differentiation and the TLR4 ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the pathway.

Methods/Results

Differentiation did not affect the CXCR4, 7 mRNA levels. Interestingly, the CXCL12 and CXCR7 proteins but not CXCR4 were found to be up‐regulated during differentiation. LPS, through CD14‐dependent pathway, induced CXCL12 and CXCR4, 7 mRNA levels to a greater magnitude in d‐ than u‐THP‐1. The induction effect on CXCL12 stimulated by LPS was confirmed using ELISA. Increased migration of u‐THP‐1 was observed using conditioned medium from LPS‐treated d‐THP‐1. Additionally, d‐THP‐1, although expressed higher CXCR7 protein levels, failed to migrate toward CXCL12. In contrast, LPS did not affect CXCR4, 7 protein levels.

Conclusion

Hence, this study indicated that CXCL12, CXCR4, and CXCR7 were differentially expressed and regulated in u‐THP‐1 and d‐THP‐1 cells in response to external stimuli. Importantly, we reported here a novel observation that uncoupling exists between transcriptional and translational regulation of CXCR4, 7 expressions by differentiation and TLR stimuli.
A mitochondrial targeting tetrapeptide Bendavia protects lateral line hair cells from gentamicin exposure
Authors: Kuang Xiao , Sun Yanhui , Wang Zhenjie , Zhou Shuang , Liu Hongzhuo
Published: November 2017

The hearing loss induced by aminoglycosides is caused by the permanent loss of mechanosensory hair cells of the inner ear. The aim of the present study is therefore to evaluate the protective effect of Bendavia, a novel antioxidant, on gentamicin‐induced hair cell damage in zebrafish lateral lines. The results demonstrated the pretreatment of Bendavia exhibited dose‐dependent protection against gentamicin in both acute and chronic exposure. We found that Bendavia at 150 μm conferred optimal protection from either acute or chronic exposure with ototoxin. Bendavia reduced uptake of fluorescent‐tagged gentamicin via mechanoelectrical transduction channels, suggesting its protective effects may be partially due to decreasing ototoxic molecule uptake. The intracellular death pathways inhibition triggered by gentamicin might be also included as no blockage of gentamicin was observed. Our data suggest that Bendavia represents a novel otoprotective drug that might provide a therapeutic alternative for patients receiving aminoglycoside treatment.
Silicon bioceramic loaded with vancomycin stimulates bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Manchón Angel , Alkhraisat Mohammad H. , Rueda‐Rodriguez Carmen , Pintado Concepción , Prados‐Frutos J.C. , Torres Jesus , Lopez Cabarcos Enrique
Published: November 2017

Porous ceramics doped with silicon and pure β‐TCP were analyzed in terms of internal microstructure, cell behavior, and the percentage of newly formed bone. Additionally the materials were tested to determine which of the two had better properties to load and release vancomycin hydrochloride. Internal pore distribution and porosity were determined through high pressure mercury porosimetry and the specific surface area was measured by the Brunauer Emmet‐Teller method. The proliferation and viability of the human osteoblast‐like cell line MG‐63 was studied to validate both materials. The materials were tested on eight New Zealand rabbits which created defects, 10 mm in diameter, in the calvaria bone. After 8 and 12 weeks a histological and histomorphometric analysis was performed. Si‐β‐TCP showed a higher porosity and specific surface area. The cytocompatibility test revealed acceptable results in terms of proliferation and viability whereas the percentage of new bone was higher in Si‐β‐TCP with a two‐time study being statistically significant with 12 weeks of healing (p < 0.05).The vancomycin loaded within the ceramic scaffolds were burst released and the material had the ability to inhibit bacterial growth. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2307–2315, 2018.
Resurgence of time allocation
Authors: Cançado Carlos R. X. , Lattal Kennon A. , Carpenter H. K. , Solley Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2017

The resurgence of time allocation with pigeons was studied in three experiments. In Phase 1 of each experiment, response‐independent food occurred with different probabilities in the presence of two different keylights. Each peck on the key changed its color and the food probability in effect. In Phase 2, the food probabilities associated with each keylight were reversed and, in Phase 3, food was discontinued in the presence of either keylight. The food probabilities were .25 and .75, in Experiment 1, and 0.0 and 1.0 in Experiment 2. More time was allocated to the keylight correlated with more probable food in Phases 1 and 2, and in Phase 3 resurgence of time allocation occurred for two of three pigeons in Experiment 1, and for each of four pigeons in Experiment 2. Because time had to be allocated to either of the two alternatives in Experiments 1 and 2, however, it was difficult to characterize the time allocation patterns in Phase 3 as resurgence when changeover responding approached zero. In Experiment 3 this issue was addressed by providing a third alternative uncorrelated with food such that in each phase, after 30 s in the presence of either keylight correlated with food, the third alternative always was reinstated, requiring a response to access either of the two keylights correlated with food. In this experiment, the food probabilities were similar to those in Experiment 1. Resurgence of time allocation occurred for each of three pigeons under this procedure. The results of these experiments suggest that patterns of time allocation resurge similarly to discrete responses and to spatial and temporal patterns of responding.
The effects of acclimation temperature, salinity, and behavior on the thermal tolerance of Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus)
Authors: King Mallory , Sardella Brian
Published: November 2017

Mozambique tilapia have been shown to be incredibly stress tolerant with respect to environmental salinity, hypoxia, and ammonia concentrations. Temperature challenges to this species have shown that they have difficulty with cold acclimation. The purpose of this study was to measure the effects of acclimation temperature and salinity on the thermal tolerance of Mozambique tilapia as assessed by critical thermal maxima (CTMax) and critical thermal minima (CTMin). We also monitored fish behavior and quantified ventilation rate. To our knowledge, this study was the first to investigate upper and lower thermal tolerances, and the effect of environmental salinity in this physiologically impressive species. Using predictive regression analyses of the thermal limits, thermal tolerance polygons were constructed and total areas were calculated 678.9°C2 for freshwater (FW)‐acclimated tilapia, and 739.4°C2 seawater (SW)‐acclimated tilapia. During the thermal challenges, we observed two novel behaviors in response to thermal challenge, ventilation cessation behavior (VCB) and aquatic surface respiration (ASR), and we conclude that the use of these behaviors extended the thermal limits of these fish in both FW and two‐thirds SW by limiting the exposure of the gill epithelium to the changing environment.
Neuroanatomy of Hyalinella punctata: Common patterns and new characters in phylactolaemate bryozoans
Authors: Ambros Magdalena , Wanninger Andreas , Schwaha Thomas F.
Published: November 2017

Studies on the bryozoan adult nervous system employing immunocytochemical techniques and confocal laser scanning microscopy are scarce. To gain a better view into the structure and evolution of the nervous system of the Phylactolaemata, the earliest extant branch and sister taxon to the remaining Bryozoa, this work aims to characterize the nervous system of Hyalinella punctata with immunocytochemical techniques and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The cerebral ganglion is located between the anus and the pharynx and contains a lumen. Two ganglionic horns and a circum‐oral nerve ring emanate from the cerebral ganglion. The pharynx is innervated by a diffuse neural plexus with two prominent neurite bundles. The caecum is innervated by longitudinal neurite bundles and a peripheral plexus. The intestine is characterized by longitudinal and circular neurite bundles, mostly near the anus. Novel putative sensory cells were found in the foregut and intestine. The tentacle sheath is innervated by a diffuse neural plexus, which emanates from several neurite bundles from the cerebral ganglion, but also parts of the pharyngeal plexus. There are six tentacle neurite bundles of intertentacular origin. The retractor muscles are innervated by two thin neurite bundles. Several characters are described herein for the first time in Phylactolaemata: Longitudinal neurite bundles and a peripheral plexus of the caecum, putative sensory structures of the gut, retractor muscle innervation, specific duplicature band neurite bundles. The tentacle innervation differs from previous descriptions of phylactolaemates regarding the origin of the three abfrontal neurite bundles. In general, most organ systems are innervated by a diffuse plexus in phylactolaemates as opposed to gymnolaemates. In contrast to the Gymnolaemata, representatives of Phylactolaemata show a higher number of tentacle nerves. Although the plesiomorphic condition for zooidal features among bryozoans remains unclear, having a diffuse nerve plexus may represent an ancestral feature for freshwater bryozoans.
On a combined theory of pay level satisfaction
Authors: Yao Yong Heng (Angus) , Locke Edwin A. , Jamal Muhammad
Published: November 2017

For decades, research on pay level satisfaction has focused on two theories and one approach: the direct link theory, the discrepancy theory, and the no‐difference‐scores approach. However, there are still unsolved puzzles facing pay level satisfaction research. We develop a combined theory to consider the impact of the interaction of reported pay and pay discrepancy. With this newly developed theory, we expect that (a) both reported pay and pay discrepancy have main effects on pay level satisfaction; (b) reported pay and pay discrepancy also interact with each other, in that the effect of pay discrepancy on pay level satisfaction decreases as pay level increases; (c) equitable payment is more related to pay level dissatisfaction when pay level is low; and (d) overpayment in general is related to pay level satisfaction, not dissatisfaction. An empirical study (N = 481) using four types of comparison standards was conducted, and the results supported our predictions. The findings of our study have important implications for both academic research and management practice.
Optical properties of composite heterophase objects with liquid crystal material for different display applications
Authors: Belyaev Victor V. , Solomatin Alexey S. , Chausov Denis N. , Suarez Douglas A. , Smirnov Aliaksandr G. , Kuleshova Julia D.
Published: November 2017

Liquid crystal (LC) director distribution and optical transmission for different types of heterophase systems with different LC boundary conditions is simulated. The first type is a transparent isotropic material with spherical or cylindrical liquid crystalline objects. There are polymer dispersed liquid crystal, LC fiber, lyotropic LC in polarizing films, LC in microgroove and nanogrooves and pores. The second type is an LC layer incorporating an isotropic transparent or non‐transparent object like microparticles and nanoparticles, spacers, protrusions in multi‐domain vertical alignment LC display et al. The system parameters' influence on LC display performances is discussed.
Quality evaluation of raw and processed Crataegi Fructus by color measurement and fingerprint analysis
Authors: Fei Chenghao , Dai Hui , Wu Xiaoyan , Li Lin , Lu Tulin , Li Weidong , Cai Baochang , Yin Wu , Yin Fangzhou
Published: November 2017

Crataegi Fructus and its processed products have been used as a traditional medicine for a long time, and numerous active components are responsible for their curative effects. However, a comprehensive and fast method for the quality control of its processed products is still lacking. In this study, two analytical methods based on color measurements and fingerprint analysis are established. In the color measurements, the color values of the peel and flesh of Crataegi Fructus were evaluated spectrophotometrically. Based on the results, a color reference range was established using percentiles, and the standard color difference value was established using the median color values. Then, the color values of Crataegi Fructus and its processed products were analyzed using Bayes linear discriminant analysis and mathematical functions were built in order to predict the degree of processing. Moreover, high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint analysis was performed on a Hibar C18 column, and a high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprint pattern was obtained, from which nine peaks were identified. Chemometric methods were successfully applied to differentiate raw and processed Crataegi Fructus.
Global convergence results for single parent evolution strategies
Authors: Jebalia Mohamed , Khlaifi Anis , Muhammad Belgacem Fethi Bin
Published: November 2017

In this research article, we present theoretical techniques that can be used to investigate and comprehend the convergence behavior patterns of single parent evolution strategies. In the process, we determine instances of divergence or prove log‐linear convergence and estimate the related speed, for a single parent evolution strategies class. The tools and results provided herein entertain a wide range of evolution strategies variants of interest and can be readily adapted for global convergence studies of a multitude of continuous optimization methods, evolving a single solution. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crank‐Nicolson‐Galerkin finite element scheme for nonlocal coupled parabolic problem using the Newton's method
Authors: Chaudhary Sudhakar
Published: November 2017

In this article, a finite element scheme based on the Newton's method is proposed to approximate the solution of a nonlocal coupled system of parabolic problem. The Crank‐Nicolson method is used for time discretization. Well‐posedness of the problem is discussed at continuous and discrete levels. We derive a priori error estimates for both semidiscrete and fully discrete formulations. Results based on usual finite element method are provided to confirm the theoretical estimates.
Stabilization of a one‐dimensional wave equation with variable coefficient under non‐collocated control and delayed observation
Authors: Yang Kun‐Yi
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we consider stabilization of a 1‐dimensional wave equation with variable coefficient where non‐collocated boundary observation suffers from an arbitrary time delay. Since input and output are non‐collocated with each other, it is more complex to design the observer system. After showing well‐posedness of the open‐loop system, the observer and predictor systems are constructed to give the estimated state feedback controller. Different from the partial differential equation with constant coefficients, the variable coefficient causes mathematical difficulties of the stabilization problem. By the approach of Riesz basis property, it is shown that the closed‐loop system is stable exponentially. Numerical simulations demonstrate the effect of the stable controller. This paper is devoted to the wave equation with variable coefficients generalized of that with constant coefficients for delayed observation and non‐collocated control.
Making sense of antisense oligonucleotides: A narrative review
Authors: Goyal Neelam , Narayanaswami Pushpa
Published: November 2017

Synthetic nucleic acid sequences that bind to ribonucleic acid (RNA) through Watson‐Crick base pairing are known as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) because they are complementary to “sense strand” nucleic acids. ASOs bind to selected sequences of RNA and regulate the expression of genes by several mechanisms depending on their chemical properties and targets. They can be used to restore deficient protein expression, reduce the expression of a toxic protein, modify functional effects of proteins, or reduce toxicity of mutant proteins. Two ASOs were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2016: eteplirsen for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and nusinersen for spinal muscular atrophy. Clinical trials in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and familial amyloid polyneuropathy are ongoing. We review the chemistry, pharmacology, and mechanisms of action of ASOs, preclinical data, and clinical trials in neuromuscular diseases and discuss some ethical, regulatory, and policy considerations in the clinical development and use of ASOs.Muscle Nerve57: 356–370, 2018
Modeling of self‐desiccation in a cemented backfill structure
Authors: Cui Liang , Fall Mamadou
Published: November 2017

After placement of cemented tailings backfill (CTB), which is a mixture of tailings (man‐made soil), water, and binder, into underground mined‐out voids (stopes), the hydration reaction of the binder converts the capillary water into chemically bound water, which results in the reduction of the water content in the pores of the CTB, thereby causing a reduction in the pore‐water pressure in the CTB (self‐desiccation). Self‐desiccation has a significant impact on the pore‐water pressure and effective stress development in CTB and paramount and practical importance for the stability assessment and design of CTB structures and barricades. However, self‐desiccation in CTB structures is complex because it is a function of the multiphysics or coupled (i.e., thermal, hydraulic, mechanical, and chemical) processes that occur in CTB. To understand the self‐desiccation behavior of CTB, an integrated multiphysics model of self‐desiccation is developed in this study, which fully considers the coupled thermal, hydraulic, mechanical, and chemical processes and the consolidation process in CTB. All model coefficients are determined in measurable parameters. Moreover, the predictive ability of the model is verified with extensive case studies. A series of engineering issues are examined with the validated model to investigate the self‐desiccation process in CTB structures with respect to the changes in the mixture recipe, backfilling, and the surrounding rock and curing conditions. The obtained results provide in‐depth insight into the self‐desiccation behavior of CTB structures. The developed multiphysics model is therefore a potential tool for assessing and predicting self‐desiccation in CTB structures.
In vivo detection and automatic analysis of GABA in the mouse brain with MEGA‐PRESS at 9.4 T
Authors: Guo Jia , Gang Zhu , Sun Yanping , Laine Andrew , Small Scott A. , Rothman Douglas L.
Published: November 2017

The goals of this study were to develop an acquisition protocol and the analysis tools for Meshcher–Garwood point‐resolved spectroscopy (MEGA‐PRESS) in mouse brain at 9.4 T, to allow the in vivo detection of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and to examine whether isoflurane alters GABA levels in the thalamus during anesthesia. We implemented the MEGA‐PRESS sequence on a Bruker 94/20 system with ParaVision 6.0.1, and magnetic resonance spectra were acquired from nine male wild‐type C57BL/6 J mice at the thalamus. Four individual scans were obtained for each mouse in a 2‐h time course whilst the mouse was anesthetized with isoflurane. We developed an automated analysis program with improved correction for frequency and phase drift compared with the standard creatine (Cr) fitting‐based method and provided automatic quantification. During MEGA‐PRESS acquisition, a single voxel with a size of 5 × 3 × 3 mm3 was placed at the thalamus to evaluate GABA to Cr (GABA/Cr) ratios during anesthesia. Detection and quantitative analysis of thalamic GABA levels were successfully achieved. We noticed a significant decrease in GABA/Cr during the 2‐h anesthesia (by linear regression analysis: slope < 0, p < 0.0001). In summary, our findings demonstrate that MEGA‐PRESS is a feasible technique to measure in vivo GABA levels in the mouse brain at 9.4 T.
Is there evidence for more than two diffusion components in abdominal organs? – A magnetic resonance imaging study in healthy volunteers
Authors: Wurnig Moritz C. , Germann Manon , Boss Andreas
Published: November 2017

The most commonly applied model for the description of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) data in perfused organs is bicompartmental intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) analysis. In this study, we assessed the ground truth of underlying diffusion components in healthy abdominal organs using an extensive DWI protocol and subsequent computation of apparent diffusion coefficient ‘spectra’, similar to the computation of previously described T2 relaxation spectra. Diffusion datasets of eight healthy subjects were acquired in a 3‐T magnetic resonance scanner using 68 different b values during free breathing (equidistantly placed in the range 0–1005 s/mm2). Signal intensity curves as a function of the b value were analyzed in liver, spleen and kidneys using non‐negative least‐squares fitting to a distribution of decaying exponential functions with minimum amplitude energy regularization. In all assessed organs, the typical slow‐ and fast‐diffusing components of the IVIM model were detected [liver: true diffusion D = (1.26 ± 0.01) × 10–3 mm2/s, pseudodiffusion D* = (270 ± 44) × 10–3 mm2/s; kidney cortex: D = (2.26 ± 0.07) × 10–3 mm2/s, D* = (264 ± 78) × 10–3 mm2/s; kidney medulla: D = (1.57 ± 0.28) × 10–3 mm2/s, D* = (168 ± 18) × 10–3 mm2/s; spleen: D = (0.91 ± 0.01) × 10–3 mm2/s, D* = (69.8 ± 0.50) × 10–3 mm2/s]. However, in the liver and kidney, a third component between D and D* was found [liver: D′ = (43.8 ± 5.9) × 10–3 mm2/s; kidney cortex: D′ = (23.8 ± 11.5) × 10–3 mm2/s; kidney medulla: D′ = (5.23 ± 0.93) × 10–3 mm2/s], whereas no third component was detected in the spleen. Fitting with a diffusion kurtosis model did not lead to a better fit of the resulting curves to the acquired data compared with apparent diffusion coefficient spectrum analysis. For a most accurate description of diffusion properties in the liver and the kidneys, a more sophisticated model seems to be required including three diffusion components.