bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic regulation of starvation-induced autophagy in Drosophila by histone methyltransferase G9a
Authors: An Phan Nguyen Thuy , Shimaji Kouhei , Tanaka Ryo , Yoshida Hideki , Kimura Hiroshi , Fukusaki Eiichiro , Yamaguchi Masamitsu
Published: July 2017

Epigenetics is now emerging as a key regulation in response to various stresses. We herein identified the Drosophila histone methyltransferase G9a (dG9a) as a key factor to acquire tolerance to starvation stress. The depletion of dG9a led to high sensitivity to starvation stress in adult flies, while its overexpression induced starvation stress resistance. The catalytic domain of dG9a was not required for starvation stress resistance. dG9a plays no apparent role in tolerance to other stresses including heat and oxidative stresses. Metabolomic approaches were applied to investigate global changes in the metabolome due to the loss of dG9a during starvation stress. The results obtained indicated that dG9a plays an important role in maintaining energy reservoirs including amino acid, trehalose, glycogen, and triacylglycerol levels during starvation. Further investigations on the underlying mechanisms showed that the depletion of dG9a repressed starvation-induced autophagy by controlling the expression level of Atg8a, a critical gene for the progression of autophagy, in a different manner to that in cancer cells. These results indicate a positive role for dG9a in starvation-induced autophagy.
The type IV pilus assembly ATPase PilB functions as a signaling protein to regulate exopolysaccharide production in Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Black Wesley P. , Wang Lingling , Jing Xing , Saldaña Rafael Castañeda , Li Feng , Scharf Birgit E. , Schubot Florian D. , Yang Zhaomin
Published: July 2017

Myxococcus xanthus possesses a form of surface motility powered by the retraction of the type IV pilus (T4P). Additionally, exopolysaccharide (EPS), the major constituent of bacterial biofilms, is required for this T4P-mediated motility in M. xanthus as the putative trigger of T4P retraction. The results here demonstrate that the T4P assembly ATPase PilB functions as an intermediary in the EPS regulatory pathway composed of the T4P upstream of the Dif signaling proteins in M. xanthus. A suppressor screen isolated a pilB mutation that restored EPS production to a T4P− mutant. An additional PilB mutant variant, which is deficient in ATP hydrolysis and T4P assembly, supports EPS production without the T4P, indicating PilB can regulate EPS production independently of its function in T4P assembly. Further analysis confirms that PilB functions downstream of the T4P filament but upstream of the Dif proteins. In vitro studies suggest that the nucleotide-free form of PilB assumes the active signaling conformation in EPS regulation. Since M. xanthus PilB possesses conserved motifs with high affinity for c-di-GMP binding, the findings here suggest that c-di-GMP can regulate both motility and biofilm formation through a single effector in this surface-motile bacterium.
High-Performance Screen-Printed Thermoelectric Films on Fabrics
Authors: Shin Sunmi , Kumar Rajan , Roh Jong Wook , Ko Dong-Su , Kim Hyun-Sik , Kim Sang Il , Yin Lu , Schlossberg Sarah M. , Cui Shuang , You Jung-Min , Kwon Soonshin , Zheng Jianlin , Wang Joseph , Chen Renkun
Published: July 2017

Printing techniques could offer a scalable approach to fabricate thermoelectric (TE) devices on flexible substrates for power generation used in wearable devices and personalized thermo-regulation. However, typical printing processes need a large concentration of binder additives, which often render a detrimental effect on electrical transport of the printed TE layers. Here, we report scalable screen-printing of TE layers on flexible fiber glass fabrics, by rationally optimizing the printing inks consisting of TE particles (p-type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 or n-type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3), binders, and organic solvents. We identified a suitable binder additive, methyl cellulose, which offers suitable viscosity for printability at a very small concentration (0.45–0.60 wt.%), thus minimizing its negative impact on electrical transport. Following printing, the binders were subsequently burnt off via sintering and hot pressing. We found that the nanoscale defects left behind after the binder burnt off became effective phonon scattering centers, leading to low lattice thermal conductivity in the printed n-type material. With the high electrical conductivity and low thermal conductivity, the screen-printed TE layers showed high room-temperature ZT values of 0.65 and 0.81 for p-type and n-type, respectively.
D4F alleviates macrophage-derived foam cell apoptosis by inhibiting the NF-κB-dependent Fas/FasL pathway
Authors: Tian Hua , Yao Shu-tong , Yang Na-na , Ren Jie , Jiao Peng , Zhang Xiangjian , Li Dong-xuan , Zhang Gong-an , Xia Zhen-fang , Qin Shu-cun
Published: July 2017

This study was designed to explore the protective effect of D4F, an apolipoprotein A-I mimetic peptide, on nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)-dependent Fas/Fas ligand (FasL) pathway-mediated apoptosis in macrophages induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). Our results showed that ox-LDL induced apoptosis, NF-κB P65 nuclear translocation and the upregulation of Fas/FasL pathway-related proteins, including Fas, FasL, Fas-associated death domain proteins (FADD), caspase-8 and caspase-3 in RAW264.7 macrophages, whereas silencing of Fas blocked ox-LDL-induced macrophage apoptosis. Furthermore, silencing of P65 attenuated macrophage apoptosis and the upregulation of Fas caused by ox-LDL, whereas P65 expression was not significantly affected by treatment with Fas siRNA. D4F attenuated the reduction of cell viability and the increase in lactate dehydrogenase leakage and apoptosis. Additionally, D4F inhibited ox-LDL-induced P65 nuclear translocation and upregulation of Fas/FasL pathway-related proteins in RAW264.7 cells and in atherosclerotic lesions of apoE−/−mice. However, Jo2, a Fas-activating monoclonal antibody, reversed the inhibitory effect of D4F on ox-LDL-induced cell apoptosis and upregulation of Fas, FasL and FADD. These data indicate that NF-κB mediates Fas/FasL pathway activation and apoptosis in macrophages induced by ox-LDL and that D4F protects macrophages from ox-LDL-induced apoptosis by suppressing the activation of NF-κB and the Fas/FasL pathway.
Ab Initio Approach to Second-order Resonant Raman Scattering Including Exciton-Phonon Interaction
Authors: Gillet Yannick , Kontur Stefan , Giantomassi Matteo , Draxl Claudia , Gonze Xavier
Published: July 2017

Raman spectra obtained by the inelastic scattering of light by crystalline solids contain contributions from first-order vibrational processes (e.g. the emission or absorption of one phonon, a quantum of vibration) as well as higher-order processes with at least two phonons being involved. At second order, coupling with the entire phonon spectrum induces a response that may strongly depend on the excitation energy, and reflects complex processes more difficult to interpret. In particular, excitons (i.e. bound electron-hole pairs) may enhance the absorption and emission of light, and couple strongly with phonons in resonance conditions. We design and implement a first-principles methodology to compute second-order Raman scattering, incorporating dielectric responses and phonon eigenstates obtained from density-functional theory and many-body theory. We demonstrate our approach for the case of silicon, relating frequency-dependent relative Raman intensities, that are in excellent agreement with experiment, to different vibrations and regions of the Brillouin zone. We show that exciton-phonon coupling, computed from first principles, indeed strongly affects the spectrum in resonance conditions. The ability to analyze second-order Raman spectra thus provides direct insight into this interaction.
Quantum Transport Through Tunable Molecular Diodes
Authors: Obodo Joshua Tobechukwu , Murat Altynbek , Schwingenschlögl Udo
Published: July 2017

Employing self-interaction corrected density functional theory combined with the non-equilibrium Green’s function method, we study the quantum transport through molecules with different numbers of phenyl (donor) and pyrimidinyl (acceptor) rings in order to evaluate the effects of the molecular composition on the transport properties. Excellent agreement with the results of recent experiments addressing the rectification behavior of molecular junctions is obtained, which demonstrates the potential of quantum transport simulations for designing high performance junctions by tuning the molecular specifications.
Robust circadian clock oscillation and osmotic rhythms in inner medulla reflecting cortico-medullary osmotic gradient rhythm in rodent kidney
Authors: Hara Masayuki , Minami Yoichi , Ohashi Munehiro , Tsuchiya Yoshiki , Kusaba Tetsuro , Tamagaki Keiichi , Koike Nobuya , Umemura Yasuhiro , Inokawa Hitoshi , Yagita Kazuhiro
Published: July 2017

Circadian clocks in mammals function in most organs and tissues throughout the body. Various renal functions such as the glomerular filtration and excretion of electrolytes exhibit circadian rhythms. Although it has been reported that the expression of the clock genes composing molecular oscillators show apparent daily rhythms in rodent kidneys, functional variations of regional clocks are not yet fully understood. In this study, using macroscopic bioluminescence imaging method of the PER2::Luciferase knock-in mouse kidney, we reveal that strong and robust circadian clock oscillation is observed in the medulla. In addition, the osmotic pressure in the inner medulla shows apparent daily fluctuation, but not in the cortex. Quantitative-PCR analysis of the genes contributing to the generation of high osmotic pressure or the water re-absorption in the inner medulla, such as vasopressin receptors (V1aR,V2R), urea transporter (UT-A2) and water channel (Aqp2) show diurnal variations as well as clock genes. Deficiency of an essential clock geneBmal1impairs day-night variations of osmotic pressure gradient in the inner medulla, suggesting that circadian clocks in the medulla part of the kidney may regulate the circadian rhythm of cortico-medullary osmotic pressure gradient, and may contribute physiological day-night rhythm of urination.
Calcium depletion destabilises kinetochore fibres by the removal of CENP-F from the kinetochore
Authors: Phengchat Rinyaporn , Takata Hideaki , Uchiyama Susumu , Fukui Kiichi
Published: July 2017

The attachment of spindle fibres to the kinetochore is an important process that ensures successful completion of the cell division. The Ca2+ concentration increases during the mitotic phase and contributes microtubule stability. However, its role in the spindle organisation in mitotic cells remains controversial. Here, we investigated the role of Ca2+ on kinetochore fibres in living cells. We found that depletion of Ca2+ during mitosis reduced kinetochore fibre stability. Reduction of kinetochore fibre stability was not due to direct inhibition of microtubule polymerisation by Ca2+-depletion but due to elimination of one dynamic component of kinetochore, CENP-F from the kinetochore. This compromised the attachment of kinetochore fibres to the kinetochore which possibly causes mitotic defects induced by the depletion of Ca2+.
A metastable phase of shocked bulk single crystal copper: an atomistic simulation study
Authors: Neogi Anupam , Mitra Nilanjan
Published: July 2017

Structural phase transformation in bulk single crystal Cu in different orientation under shock loading of different intensities has been investigated in this article. Atomistic simulations, such as, classical molecular dynamics using embedded atom method (EAM) interatomic potential and ab-initio based molecular dynamics simulations, have been carried out to demonstrate FCC-to-BCT phase transformation under shock loading of 〈100〉 oriented bulk single crystal copper. Simulated x-ray diffraction patterns have been utilized to confirm the structural phase transformation before shock-induced melting in Cu(100).
Targeting primary acute myeloid leukemia with a new CXCR4 antagonist IgG1 antibody (PF-06747143)
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Saavedra Erika , Tang Ruoping , Gu Yin , Lappin Patrick , Trajkovic Dusko , Liu Shu-Hui , Smeal Tod , Fantin Valeria , De Botton Stephane , Legrand Ollivier , Delhommeau Francois , Pernasetti Flavia , Louache Fawzia
Published: July 2017

The chemokine receptor CXCR4 mediates cell anchorage in the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment and is overexpressed in 25–30% of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Here we have shown that a new CXCR4 receptor antagonist IgG1 antibody (PF-06747143) binds strongly to AML cell lines and to AML primary cells inhibiting their chemotaxis in response to CXCL12. PF-06747143 also induced cytotoxicity in AML cells via Fc-effector function. To characterize the effects of PF-06747143 on leukemia progression, we used two different patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models: Patient 17CXCR4-low and P15CXCR4-high models, characterized by relatively low and high CXCR4 expression, respectively. Weekly administration of PF-06747143 to leukemic mice significantly reduced leukemia development in both models. Secondary transplantation of BM cells from PF-06747143-treated or IgG1 control-treated animals showed that leukemic progenitors were also targeted by PF-06747143. Administration of a single dose of PF-06747143 to PDX models induced rapid malignant cell mobilization into the peripheral blood (PB). These findings support evaluation of this antibody in AML therapy, with particular appeal to patients resistant to chemotherapy and to unfit patients, unable to tolerate intensive chemotherapy.
Survival of opening versus closing wedge high tibial osteotomy: A meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Jun-Ho , Kim Hyun-Jung , Lee Dae-Hee
Published: July 2017

This meta-analysis was designed to compare the longevity of the survivorship of opening versus closing wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO). All studies reporting survival rates in patients who underwent open or closed wedge HTO with more than 5-year follow-up duration were included in the meta-analysis. Survival time was considered as time to conversion to TKA. Twenty three studies were included in meta-analysis, 20 of which were of level IV evidence. The pooled 5-year survival rates were 95.1% (95% CI: 93.1 to 97.1%) in open wedge HTO and 93.9% (95% CI: 93.1 to 94.6%) in closed wedge HTO. Although there was 1.2% greater survival rate in open wedge HTO than in closed wedge HTO, this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.419). Pooled 10-year survival rates were 91.6% (95% CI: 88.5 to 94.8%) in open wedge HTO and 85.4% (95% CI: 84.0 to 86.7%) in closed wedge HTO, indicating that open wedge HTO had 6.2% greater survival rate 10 years after surgery than did closed wedge HTO (P = 0.002). No difference in 5-year survivorship was found between open- and closed-wedge HTO. However, the survival rate was higher in open-wedge HTOs than in closed wedge HTO at 10 years.
Role of serum cytokeratin 19 fragment (Cyfra 21.1) as a prognostic biomarker in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Giovanella L. , Imperiali M. , Trimboli P.
Published: July 2017

Differentiated thyroid cancers (DTC) account for up to 85% of thyroid cancers and generally display an excellent prognosis. However, in a minority of cases, DTC progress toward less differentiated phenotypes leading to distant metastases and even disease-related deaths. Circulating biomarkers are warranted to complement the gold standard DTC marker thyroglobulin (Tg) in identifying and monitoring such cases. We measured serum Tg and Cyfra 21.1 6 to 12 months after primary treatment in 473 DTC patients. A complete response of Tg was related to an excellent outcome in all cases. Among patients with incomplete Tg response Cyfra 21.1 levels <2.07 ng/mL were associated to favorable outcome while higher levels greatly increased the risk of disease related recurrences and deaths. Both markers retained independent prognostic values in multivariate analysis. In conclusion, Cyfra 21.1 is a tool available to independently predict survival of DTC patients not achieving excellent response after primary treatment.
The pseudogene derived from long non-coding RNA DUXAP10 promotes colorectal cancer cell growth through epigenetically silencing of p21 and PTEN
Authors: Lian Yifan , Xu Yetao , Xiao Chuanxing , Xia Rui , Gong Huangbo , Yang Peng , Chen Tao , Wu Dongdong , Cai Zeling , Zhang Jianping , Wang Keming
Published: July 2017

Recently, substantial evidence has demonstrated that pseudogene derived lncRNAs are crucial regulators of cancer development and progression. DUXAP10,a pseudogene derived long non-coding RNA(lncRNA), is overexpression in colorectal cancer (CRC), but its expression pattern, biological function and underlying mechanism in CRC is still undetermined. In this study, we observed that DUXAP10 was up-regulated in CRC tissues which was positively correlated with advanced pathological stages, larger tumor sizes and lymph node metastasis. Additionally, knockdown of DUXAP10 inhibited cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis and increase the number of G0/G1 cells significantly in the HCT116 and SW480 cell lines. Moreover, DUXAP10 silencing inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Further mechanism study showed that, by binding to histone demethylase lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), DUXAP10 promote CRC cell growth and reduced cell apoptosis through silencing the expression of p21 and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) tumor suppressor. Our findings suggested that the pseudogene-derived from lncRNA DUXAP10 promotes the biological progression of CRC and is likely to be a potential therapeutic target for CRC intervention.
Correction: Corrigendum: Role of phosphatase activity of soluble epoxide hydrolase in regulating simvastatin-activated endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Hou Hsin-Han , Liao Yi-Jen , Hsiao Sheng-Huang , Shyue Song-Kun , Lee Tzong-Shyuan
Published: July 2017

Scientific Reports 5: Article number: 13524; published online: 25 August 2015; updated: 31 July 2017. The original version of this Article contained an error in Figure 4b, where the ‘AMPK’ and ‘p-AMPK’ labels were inverted. In addition, the blot for AMPK in the vector group was incorrect. The Supplementary Information file that accompanies the Article has now been updated on page 37 with the unprocessed blot corresponding to Figure 4.
Development of AEI type germanoaluminophosphate (GeAPO-18) with ultra-weak acid sites and its catalytic properties for the methanol to olefin (MTO) reaction
Authors: Ono Kaito , Miyake Koji , Nakai Masahiro , Al Jabri Hasna , Hirota Yuichiro , Uchida Yoshiaki , Tanaka Shunsuke , Miyamoto Manabu , Nishiyama Norikazu
Published: July 2017

Incorporating Ge into the aluminophosphate framework generated weakened Brønsted acid sites, leading to prolonged catalyst lifetimes in the MTO reaction.
Synthesis of mesoporous iridium nanosponge: a highly active, thermally stable and efficient olefin hydrogenation catalyst
Authors: Ghosh Sourav , Jagirdar Balaji R.
Published: July 2017

Capping agent dissolution of Ir@BNHxnanocomposite affords mesoporous iridium nanosponge which exhibits high catalytic activity towards olefin hydrogenation of a variety of substrates.
Synthesis and characterization of FeIII(μ-OH)ZnII complexes: effects of a second coordination sphere and increase in the chelate ring size on the hydrolysis of a phosphate diester and DNA
Authors: Silva Graciela Aparecida dos Santos , Amorim André Luiz , Souza Bernardo de , Gabriel Philipe , Terenzi Hernán , Nordlander Ebbe , Neves Ademir , Peralta Rosely A.
Published: July 2017

Effects of a second coordination sphere and of the chelate ring size in FeIII(μ-OH)ZnII complexes properties and catalysis.
Thermal stability of mesoscopic compounds of cetyltrimethylammonium and Keggin metatungstates
Authors: Colusso A. C. , Cortie M. B. , Dowd A. , McDonagh A. M.
Published: July 2017

A hybrid surfactant/polyoxometalate compound was synthesized by combining isopolytungstate anions with the cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTA-Br) to produce a hierarchical compound that we identify as (CTA)7[H2W12O40]Cl·2H2O.
Ligand-directed synthesis of {MnIII5} twisted bow-ties
Authors: Heras Ojea María José , Hay Moya A. , Cioncoloni Giacomo , Craig Gavin A. , Wilson Claire , Shiga Takuya , Oshio Hiroki , Symes Mark D. , Murrie Mark
Published: July 2017

3,5-Diamino-1,2,4-triazole derivatives direct the assembly of {MnIII5} twisted bow-ties.
Scalability of voltage-controlled filamentary and nanometallic resistance memory devices
Authors: Lu Yang , Lee Jong Ho , Chen I.-Wei
Published: July 2017

An area-proportional current compliance can ensure the area-scalability of RRAM's resistance, in both the high resistance state and the low resistance state, which stems from voltage-controlled switching.
Nucleophile dependent formation of 6- and 7-membered N-heterocycles by platinum-catalysed cyclisation of 1,5-bisallenes
Authors: Quirós María Teresa , Hurtado-Rodrigo César , Muñoz María Paz
Published: July 2017

Divergencies unravelled in new Pt-catalysed alkoxy- and hydroxycyclisation of N-tethered 1,5-bisallenes to give vinyl-tetrahydropyridines with alcohols and hydro-1H-azepines with water.
DFT studies on reactions of boroles with carbon monoxide
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhou Yu , Marder Todd B. , Lin Zhenyang
Published: July 2017

DFT calculations were performed to study systematically the influence of borole substituents on the reaction of boroles with carbon monoxide.
New bioluminescent coelenterazine derivatives with various C-6 substitutions
Authors: Jiang Tianyu , Yang Xingye , Zhou Yubin , Yampolsky Ilia , Du Lupei , Li Minyong
Published: July 2017

A series of new coelenterazine analogs with varying substituents at the C-6 position of the imidazopyrazinone core have been designed and synthesized for the extension of bioluminescence substrates.
Solvent controlled radical cyclization of propargylamines for multi-iodinated quinoline formation
Authors: Zhang Yu , Liu Xue-Ke , Wu Zheng-Guang , Wang Yi , Pan Yi
Published: July 2017

A solvent controlled regioselective metal-free synthesis of iodosubstituted quinolines from propargylamines has been developed.
Facile synthesis of Au@Ag–hemin decorated reduced graphene oxide sheets: a novel peroxidase mimetic for ultrasensitive colorimetric detection of hydrogen peroxide and glucose
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Bhushan Pulak , Bhattacharya Shantanu
Published: July 2017

Hemin–Au@Ag–graphene oxide, a quaternary nanocomposite employed as an efficient peroxidase mimetic for ultrasensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide and glucose.
Photocatalytic direct C–S bond formation: facile access to 3-sulfenylindoles via metal-free C-3 sulfenylation of indoles with thiophenols
Authors: Guo Wei , Tan Wen , Zhao Mingming , Tao Kailiang , Zheng Lv-Yin , Wu Yongquan , Chen Deliang , Fan Xiao-Lin
Published: July 2017

An efficient and convenient photocatalytic direct C-3 sulfenylation of indoles with thiophenols has been developed for the construction of 3-sulfenylations.
Mechanical measurement of hydrogen bonded host–guest systems under non-equilibrium, near-physiological conditions
Authors: Naranjo Teresa , Cerrón Fernando , Nieto-Ortega Belén , Latorre Alfonso , Somoza Álvaro , Ibarra Borja , Pérez Emilio M.
Published: July 2017

A new method to measure the mechanical strength of single hydrogen bonded host–guest systems under non-equilibrium conditions.
Tuning mass transport in magnetic nanoparticle-filled viscoelastic hydrogels using low-frequency rotating magnetic fields
Authors: Boroun Shahab , Larachi Faïçal
Published: July 2017

Rotational movement of MNPs in ferrogels in an external rotating magnetic field for tuning mass transport.
Energy transfer within small molecule/conjugated polymer blends enhances photovoltaic efficiency
Authors: Lin Yu-Che , Su Yu-Wei , Li Jia-Xing , Lin Bo-Hsien , Chen Chung-Hao , Chen Hsiu-Cheng , Wu Kaung-Hsiung , Yang Yang , Wei Kung-Hwa
Published: July 2017

We employed ternary blends capable of energy transfer—a synthesized small molecule (SM-4OMe) comprising benzodithiophene (BDT) units (a molecule designed for energy transfer), and a polymer (PTB7-TH) with BDT units with desired packing orientation, and a fullerene—as active layers for single junction photovoltaic devices.
Exceptional catalytic activity of hollow structured La0.6Sr0.4CoO3−δ perovskite spheres in aqueous media and aprotic Li–O2 batteries
Authors: Sennu Palanichamy , Aravindan Vanchiappan , Nahm Kee Suk , Lee Yun-Sung
Published: July 2017

Hollow structured La0.6Sr0.4CoO3−δ (HS-LSC) perovskite spheres are synthesised via a template assisted approach and utilized as a bi-functional catalyst in both aqueous and non-aqueous media.
Boundary layer tuning induced fast and high performance perovskite film precipitation by facile one-step solution engineering
Authors: Gao Li-Li , Zhang Ke-Jie , Chen Ni , Yang Guan-Jun
Published: July 2017

Increasing air velocity and decreasing air temperature can reduce the boundary layer thickness and promote solvent evaporation.
Extremely low thermal conductivity and high thermoelectric performance in liquid-like Cu2Se1−xSx polymorphic materials
Authors: Zhao Kunpeng , Blichfeld Anders Bank , Eikeland Espen , Qiu Pengfei , Ren Dudi , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt , Shi Xun , Chen Lidong
Published: July 2017

Extremely low thermal conductivity and high thermoelectric performance are found in liquid-like Cu2Se1−xSx polymorphic materials.
Accelerating effects of genipin-crosslinked small intestinal submucosa for defected gastric mucosa repair
Authors: Wang Min , Li Yan-Qing , Cao Jie , Gong Mei , Zhang Yi , Chen Xi , Tian Mao-Xuan , Xie Hui-Qi
Published: July 2017

GP-CR SIS was highly resistant to gastric juice digestion and had a great improvement in mechanical properties.
Ultralow percolation threshold and enhanced electromagnetic interference shielding in poly(l-lactide)/multi-walled carbon nanotube nanocomposites with electrically conductive segregated networks
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Gen-Hui , Feng La-Mei , Wang Ning , Guo Jiang , Sun Kai , Yu Kai-Xin , Zeng Jian-Bing , Li Tingxi , Guo Zhanhu , Wang Ming
Published: July 2017

Segregated PLLA/MWCNTs nanocomposites were synthesized with high-performance EMI shielding.
Prevention of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Smith Eric
Published: July 2017

Cerebral small vessel disease can cause either ischemic stroke or intracerebral hemorrhage. Accounting for up to 25% of all strokes, it is also the second biggest contributor to the risk of dementia, and is the most common incidentally discovered finding on brain imaging. There are two main causes of cerebral small vessel disease: arteriolosclerotic small vessel disease (with hypertension as the main modifiable risk factor) and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (predominantly caused by β-amyloid deposits limited to the cerebral small arteries, arterioles, and capillaries). Prevention should include the treatment of hypertension and diabetes, if present, and the modification of lifestyle factors such as obesity and poor nutrition. Patients with small subcortical ischemic strokes should be treated with antithrombotics; dual antiplatelet therapy may be more effective than aspirin for the first 3 weeks following acute stroke, but is not more effective than aspirin for long-term prevention. Unresolved questions include the effectiveness of nonaspirin prevention strategies to prevent early recurrence or stroke extension in small subcortical ischemic stroke, and whether symptomatic or silent small vessel disease should influence decisions regarding selection for carotid revascularization or anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation. There is an unmet need for disease-modifying preventive therapies for cerebral amyloid angiopathy, the second most-common cause of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage.
Blood Pressure and Prevention of Stroke
Authors: Dakay Katarina , Silver Brian
Published: July 2017

Stroke is a common cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and hypertension is the most common modifiable risk factor for stroke. The treatment of hypertension reduces the primary occurrence of stroke as well as the risk of stroke recurrence. Although there are conflicting data regarding the optimal blood pressure for stroke prevention, an individualized approach taking into account the patient's age, comorbidities, and side effects of medication is a helpful strategy. Current guidelines support the pursuit of a systolic blood pressure under 140 mm Hg for both primary and secondary stroke prevention, though recent data suggest a more intensive goal may be of benefit in select patients. Certain classes of antihypertensives may be more beneficial in stroke prevention than others. Trials are underway to further study the optimal blood pressure target for stroke prevention in specific populations as well as the potential benefits of intensive blood pressure reduction beyond the current guidelines.
Special Considerations for Primary and Secondary Stroke Prevention in Women
Authors: Alrasheed Deema , Jaigobin Cheryl
Published: July 2017

There are gender differences in stroke in several areas. Overall, the incidence of stroke is greater in women because of the increased risk of stroke with increasing age and the longer life expectancy of women. However, gender-specific risk factors for stroke include hormonal changes during pregnancy and exogenous hormonal therapies. Also, cerebral venous thrombosis, thrombophilia, and migraine are more prevalent in women. These gender differences are the subject of this review.
The Impact of the Cosurgeon Model on Bilateral Autologous Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Hespe Geoffrey , Disa Joseph , McCarthy Colleen , Allen Robert , Dayan Joseph , Pusic Andrea , Mehrara Babak , Cordeiro Peter , Razdan Shantanu , Panchal Hina , Matros Evan
Published: July 2017

Background Microsurgical breast reconstructions (MBRs) are time and labor intensive procedures. To circumvent these barriers, plastic surgeons have started working together as cosurgeons (CSs). This study aims to evaluate the impact of the CS model (CSM) specifically on bilateral MBR. The hypothesis is that CS procedures reduce operative time and surgical complications.

Study Design This was a single institutional retrospective cohort study, which included all consecutive patients who underwent bilateral MBR from 2014 to 2016. Patients were grouped into single surgeon (SS) or CSs based on the number of the attending plastic surgeons present. Demographic and clinical characteristics including age, body mass index, smoking, American Society of Anesthesiologist class, radiation, and the timing of the reconstruction were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for outcomes including operative time and postoperative complications.

Results Of the 136 patients included in the study, 41% had breast reconstruction performed by CSs, whereas 59% had a SS. Sociodemographic features were evenly distributed with the exception of a greater number of delayed reconstructions in the SS group (33 vs. 13%; p <0.01). Pedicle TRAMS (transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flaps) were performed in 5 versus 0% of SS versus CS cases, respectively. Rates of major (4 vs. 16%) and minor (11 vs. 24%) complications were significantly lower in CS procedures. Multivariate analyses demonstrated CS operations required significantly shorter operative time by 73 minutes (p <0.001), and trended toward a reduced postoperative complication rate (p = 0.07).

Conclusion The CSM is associated with improved operative efficiency for bilateral MBR. Further evaluation of the CSM may prove useful in other surgical disciplines with time and labor intense procedures.
Role of Adjuvant Treatment in Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma
Authors: Abdelmeguid Ahmed , Kupferman Michael , Su Shirley , Raza Shaan , DeMonte Franco , Amit Moran , Tam Samantha , Hanna Ehab
Published: July 2017

Purpose Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a locally aggressive tumor. This study aimed to define the role of adjuvant treatment and its association with survival outcomes of SNMM.

Methods This retrospective study investigated 152 patients with SNMM treated between 1991 and 2016 in MD Anderson Cancer Center. Patients were divided into the following treatment groups: surgery alone, surgery with postoperative radiotherapy (PORT), surgery with postoperative chemoradiation (POCRT), and induction chemotherapy followed by surgery and PORT. Overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival, and relapse-free survival were compared. Survival between the groups was compared using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results The median follow-up was 28 months (range: 2–220 months). Five-year OS rates were 39, 42, 47, and 27% for the surgery only, PORT, POCRT, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy groups, respectively (log rank p = 0.73). Distant metastasis was the most common form of treatment failure and occurred in 59 (39%) patients. Five-year distant metastasis rates were 51, 45, and 58% for patients treated with surgery alone, PORT, and POCRT, respectively (log rank p = 0.21) but unable to be estimated in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group due to low OS rates. Multivariate analysis demonstrated tumor site (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.24–4.15) and smoking status (HR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.02–3.1) to be significant prognostic factors for survival.

Conclusion Tumor site and smoking status were significant prognosticators in SNMM. A high rate of distant metastatic disease suggests that further investigation into novel, systemic therapies is required to improve outcomes in this disease entity.
Effectiveness of Bilateral Inferior Petrosal Sinuses Sampling in Tumor Lateralization: Intraoperative Findings and Postoperative Results
Authors: Feo-Lee Oscar , Giraldo-Grueso Manuel , Puentes Juan , Harker Pablo
Published: July 2017

Object Diagnosis and treatment of Cushing's disease (CD) is a demanding endeavor. We evaluated the effectiveness of inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) in preoperative tumor lateralization and surgical outcomes.

Methods Fifty-two consecutive patients with CD and normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were enrolled between 2009 and 2015. Selective catheterization of petrosal sinuses for IPSS was performed. All patients underwent microsurgical dissection, and if a lesion was found, underwent lesion resection. Demographic, biochemical, and intraoperative findings were prospectively collected and reviewed 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

Results Forty-five patients (86.4%) had clear lateralization while seven patients had bilateral elevation. Twenty-two patients (42%) were found to have a macroscopic lesion, defined as an abnormal tissue during microsurgical dissection, which was thus resected. No patient had a lesion larger than 4 mm. Eighty-one percent of patients had the lesion where IPSS had been predicted. Hemi-hypophysectomy was performed on twenty-eight patients based on IPSS findings, since no lesion was found. Eighty-six percent of patients with lesion resection had biochemical remission by 12 months. Biochemical remission was documented in 78 and 71% of patients who underwent hemi-hypophysectomy by 6 and 12 months, respectively.

Conclusion With careful microsurgical dissection, a macroscopic lesion could be found in a significant number of patients with normal MRI. When no lesion was found, we recommend performing a hemi-hypophysectomy based on IPSS findings, since prediction accuracy was high and remission rates were significant.
The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Glucose Metabolism and Lipid Profiles in Patients with Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Akbari Maryam , Mosazadeh Mahmood , Lankarani Kamran , Tabrizi Reza , Samimi Mansooreh , Karamali Maryam , Jamilian Mehri , Kolahdooz Fariba , Asemi Zatollah
Published: July 2017

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to summarize the effect of vitamin D supplementation on glucose homeostasis parameters and lipid profiles in gestational diabetes (GDM) patients. We conducted an electronic systematic search of MEDLINE, and 4 other research databases from inception to August 2016, in addition to performing hand searches and consulting with experts in the field. The index of heterogeneity between studies was determined using Cochran (Q) and I-squared tests. Given the existing heterogeneity between studies, a fix or random effect model was performed to estimate the standardized mean difference (SMD) for each variable by using inverse variance method and Cohen statistics. Six randomized clinical trials (187 subjects and 184 controls) were included. The results showed that vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [SMD −0.66; 95% confidence interval (CI), −1.14 to −0.18], homeostatic model assessment-B cell function (HOMA-B) (SMD −0.52; 95% CI, −0.79 to −0.25), LDL-cholesterol levels (SMD −0.33; 95% CI, −0.58 to −0.07), and significantly increased quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) (SMD 0.73; 95% CI, 0.26 to 1.20). We found no beneficial effect of vitamin D supplementation on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin, HbA1c, total-, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides concentrations. In conclusion, this meta-analysis demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation may lead to an improvement in HOMA-IR, QUICKI, and LDL-cholesterol levels, but did not affect FPG, insulin, HbA1c, triglycerides, total- and HDL-cholesterol levels; however, vitamin D supplementation increased HOMA-B.
Maternal High-Fat Diet During Pregnancy and Lactation has Opposite Effects on Gonadal Expression of Leptin and Leptin Receptor in Rat Dams and Their Offspring
Authors: Rak Agnieszka , Hejmej Anna , Słupecka-Ziemilska Monika , Woliński Jaroslaw , Fiedor Elzbieta , Bilinska Barbara , Gregoraszczuk Ewa
Published: July 2017

This study investigated the effect of a high-fat (HF) diet on protein expression of leptin and its receptor in the gonads of dams and their offspring. Female Wistar rats were fed a HF diet (30% fat) or a standard breeding (BD) diet (5% fat) during pregnancy and lactation. At 21 days of lactation, mothers and both sexes of prepubertal offspring were killed by decapitation. The protein expression of leptin and its receptor was assayed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry in gonadal, periovarian, and epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT). We demonstrated that leptin protein expression in ovary, and both leptin and ObRb expression in periovarian WAT was decreased in HF dams compared with BD animals. Immunohistochemistry showed lower leptin expression in growing antral follicles and corpora lutea of HF dams. Conversely, in both gonads and epididymal WAT of HF offspring, leptin and its receptor were significantly higher expressed compared with BD. Immunolocalization of leptin system in HF offspring gonads showed higher expression in growing and antral follicles of the ovary, seminiferous tubules, and interstitial tissue of testes. In conclusion, high gonadal and gonadal-WAT expression of leptin system was observed in the offspring of dams fed a HF diet during pregnancy and lactation.
Prevalence, Clinical Features, and Natural History of Incidental Clinically Non-Functioning Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Iglesias Pedro , Arcano Karina , Triviño Vanessa , García-Sancho Paula , Díez Juan , Villabona Carles , Cordido Fernando
Published: July 2017

The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence and clinical features of incidentally discovered clinically non-functioning pituitary adenoma (CNFPA) and to analyze its natural history. A multicenter retrospective study in patients diagnosed with incidental CNFPA periodically followed-up in 3 specialized neuroendocrinology units from 1992 to 2015 was performed. Out of a total of 189 CNFPA patients, 57 cases (30.1%; 29 women; age at diagnosis 55.8±16.7 years) were incidental. Most patients (n=55, 96.5%) were diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A sum of 71.9% (n=41) were macroadenomas; 2 of them (3.5%) were giant adenomas (≥4 cm). Patients with macroadenomas were older than those with microadenomas (59.5±16.7 vs. 46.4±18.1 years, p=0.007). Macroadenomas were more common in men (85.7% vs. 58.6%, p=0.023). Twenty-eight patients (49.1%) showed suprasellar extension; of these, 19 were accompanied by chiasmatic compression. Hypopituitarism was present in 14 (24.6%) patients; which was partial in 13 patients (22.8%) and complete in one patient (1.8%). The gonadal axis was the most frequently affected (n=13, 22.8%). Twenty four patients (42.1%) underwent surgery. Of the non-operated patients, 26 patients could be evaluated morphologically after a median follow-up of 15.5 months (interquartile range, 5.7–32.7 months). No significant changes were found in the maximum tumor diameter at the end of follow-up (1.2±0.6 vs 1.2±0.7 cm). The majority of CNFPAs evaluated (n=23, 88.5%) did not show any changes in size. In 2 cases (7.7%) tumor size decreased, and in one patient (3.8%) increased. In our series of CNFPA patients, approximately one-third were incidental. These tumors were diagnosed by MRI preferably from the 5th decade of life without sex predilection. Most of them were macroadenomas, more commonly diagnosed in men and at an older age, compared to microadenomas. The suprasellar extension with chiasmatic compression and hypopituitarism were frequent at diagnosis. Most of the non-operated incidental CNFPAs remain with stable tumor size over time, growth being an unusual event.
Simulating entry into polyatomic atmospheres
Authors: Hendricks-Sturrup Rachele
Published: July 2017

Accurate modeling of entry into polyatomic atmospheres is now feasible using the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo method in PICLas.
Changes of enzyme activities related to oxidative stress in rice plants inoculated with random mutants of a Pseudomonas fluorescens strain able to improve plant fitness upon biotic and abiotic conditions
Authors: Lucas Jose A. , Garcia-Villaraco Velasco Ana , Ramos Beatriz , Gutierrez-Mañero Francisco J.
Published: July 2017

The Pseudomonas fluorescens strain used in this work (Aur 6) has demonstrated its ability to improve fitness of different plant species upon biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Random mutants of this strain were constructed with the Tn5 transposon technology, and biological tests to evaluate loss of salt protection were conducted with all the mutants (104 mutants) on rice seedlings. Mutant 33 showed an evident reduction in its ability to protect plants upon salt stress challenge, whereas mutant 19 was more effective than the wild type. Enzymes related with oxidative stress were studied in both mutants and wild type. Enzyme activities were decreased with mutant 33 with regard to wild type, whereas mutant 19 did not produce important changes suggesting involvement of redox balance associated to the observed modifications in these antioxidant enzymes as one of the probable mechanisms used by these strains. Data of malondialdehyde (MDA) were consistent with this fact. Mutants also affected accumulation of proline, the most common osmolyte in plants. A second experiment to evaluate the ability of both mutants and wild type to stimulate growth on tomato plants was conducted, as this feature was previously demonstrated by wild type. Similar results were obtained in growth of both species, suggesting that mutations of both mutants are related with the capacities of the wild type to stimulate growth. To reveal mutated genes, both mutants were mapped. Three mutated genes were found in mutant 33. A gene related with a general secretion pathway protein D, a gene related with a putative two-component system sensor kinase (ColS), and a gene related with flagellar motor switch protein (FliG). In mutant 19, two mutated genes were found. One gene related with heavy metal efflux pump Czca family, and other gene of 16s rRNA.
An integrated healthcare service for asylum seekers and refugees in the South-Eastern Region of Melbourne: Monash Health Refugee Health and Wellbeing
Authors: McBride Jacquie , Block Andrew , Russo Alana
Published: July 2017

Asylum seekers and refugees generally have poorer health than the broader Australian population. However, these groups experience a range of barriers to accessing universal health services. Generalist and specialist refugee health services have been established in Australia to improve the health of humanitarian migrant groups. This article describes a refugee health service established in a high-settlement region of Melbourne, Australia, and explores clients’ experiences with the service. Client feedback was captured through interviews (n=18) and surveys (n=159). Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the service, and highlighted the value in having trusting relationships with staff, access to bicultural workers, onsite interpreting services and integrated care. The findings indicate that it is possible to engage asylum seekers and refugees through healthcare delivery that is responsive to the unique needs of this priority population.
Phonetic analysis of filled pauses based on a Hungarian-English learner corpus
Authors: Gósy Mária , Gyarmathy Dorottya , Beke András
Published: July 2017

Filled pauses may reveal speech planning or execution problems to a greater extent in L2 spontaneous speech than in L1. The purpose of this study was to analyze the forms and position of all filled pauses, and the durations and the formants of vocalic filled pauses in English (L2) and in Hungarian (L1) spontaneous speech produced by 30 young learners with various L2 proficiency levels using data from ourHunEng-Dlearner corpus. The findings showed that the forms of filled pauses were similar in both languages, irrespective of level of language proficiency. Results confirmed significantly longer vocalic filled pauses in basic and intermediate learners in their L2 relative to their more advanced peers. Formant values (as acoustic reflections of vowel quality) indicated very similar articulatory configurations for all vocalic filled pauses, irrespective of language and language proficiency.
Phonological development in different learning contexts
Authors: Gut Ulrike
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the effect of learning context on the improvement of some L2 phonological parameters. Based on theLearning Prosody corpus(LeaP), it investigates the speech of 29 learners with various L1s who were recorded before and after either (i) a six to nine-month stay abroad, (ii) a six-month training course in the target language phonology or (iii) a stay abroad that included instruction in the L2 phonology. Quantitative corpus analyses were carried out on the learners’ vowel reduction, intonation and on their oral fluency. Results showed gains for all learner groups in pitch range, vowel reduction and fluency, but only one significant gain for the training course participants (group 2) as compared to the stay abroad groups. Qualitative corpus analyses revealed the pronounced variation across individual learners and suggest an intricate interplay between speaking styles and learning contexts.
Initiating side-sequenced vocabulary lessons
Authors: Kotani Mariko
Published: July 2017

This paper uses conversation analysis to describe the sequence in which participants in ordinary conversations are sidetracked from the current topic to engage in the repair of a word and display their orientation to asymmetrical linguistic knowledge between them. The participants frame themselves as being in a more knowledgeable and a less knowledgeable position, and this asymmetry provides an opportunity for learning. The analysis of audio recordings of 12 naturally occurring conversations between first and second language users of English reveals that such side-sequenced vocabulary lessons are initiated using at least three methods: partial questioning repeats, explicitly asking the meaning of the word that was just used, and other-directed word searches. The study captures moments in which participants’ language expert and novice identities temporarily become relevant. It also demonstrates how participants alter their relative epistemic positions with each other and redefine the asymmetrical relationships moment by moment in interaction.