bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Charge Transfer between Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Methyl Viologen: Influence of Size
Authors: Mitra Piyali , Barman Monoj Kumar , Basu Samita , Das Somnath , Pramanik Amitava , Patra Amitava
Published: October 2017

The fundamental understanding of photoinduced electron transfer (PET) between semiconductor nanocrystals and dye molecules is very important to design efficient light harvesting system based on inorganic‐organic hybrid system. Here, we have investigated the photoluminescence quenching and charge transfer process from ZnO NPs to methyl viologen (MV2+) by using steady state and time resolved spectroscopy. Absorption spectroscopic studies reveal that the charge‐transfer (CT) complex is formed between ZnO NPs and MV2+ which gives distinct size dependent CT bands. The defect emission of ZnO NPs is found to be quenched significantly after adding MV2+ molecule. The charge transfer process between ZnO NPs and MV2+ is confirmed by using laser flash photolysis and the stability of CT complexes is found to be more prominent for 6.3 nm ZnO NPs with MV2+ than 4.2 nm ZnO NPs with MV2+. The study of the electronic interaction of ZnO NPs with MV2+ is very important for further applications in organic/inorganic hybrid optoelectronic materials.
Coral Reef‐Like Carbon Nanomaterial: Synthesis, Characterization and Mechanism Study
Authors: Mahal Ehab , Al‐Mutlaq Shaymaà , Sonsudin Faridah , Yahya Rosiyah , Wei Xiaoyi , Mahal Ahmed
Published: October 2017

Coral reef‐like carbon nanomaterials (referred to carbon nanotrees or nanodendrites) were successfully synthesized using waste automobile tires as an alternative source of carbon. The products have been characterized using field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Raman Spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was investigated in order to examine the thermal stability of the products. The morphology of the products showed observation of tree‐like carbon nanomaterials similar to natural coral reef having thin graphitic outer mono shell with diameter about 3 nm and different monoliths sizes of about 7 to 40 nm. The as obtained materials demonstrated good thermal stability with a yield of 56% due to high temperature used in the deposition stage. The proposed formation mechanism suggested that they are formed as a result of the fusion and swelling of the nanoparticles. The temperature range of the deposition step in addition to the cooling step play major role in the formation of such materials.
siRNAzos: A New Class of Azobenzene‐Containing siRNAs that Can Photochemically Regulate Gene Expression
Authors: Hammill Matthew L. , Isaacs‐Trépanier Cameron , Desaulniers Jean‐Paul
Published: October 2017

Fine‐tuning the activity of short‐interfering RNAs (siRNAs) with light could help overcome several obstacles related to potency, delivery, and off‐target effects. In this study, we chemically modify siRNAs that contain azobenzene derivative spacers within the sense strand. These molecules are called siRNAzos and they are successfully accommodated within the RNAi pathway as measured by gene‐silencing dose‐dependent knockdown. In addition to its RNAi biocompatibility, we are able to photochemically control the activity of the siRNAzos that contain the azobenzene within the central region of the sense strand. We demonstrate it is possible to both inactivate and reactivate several siRNAzos with ultraviolet and visible light, respectively.
The preventive effects of edible folic acid on cardiomyocyte apoptosis and survival in early onset triple‐transgenic Alzheimer's disease model mice
Authors: Lin Kuan‐Ho , Chiu Chih‐Hao , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Ju Da‐Tong , Shen Chia‐Yao , Chen Ray‐Jade , Lin Chien‐Chung , Viswanadha Vijaya Padma , Liu Jian‐Sheng , Huang Rwei‐Fen S. , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: October 2017

In recent years, neuropathological and epidemiological studies have indicated an association between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and several cardiovascular risk factors. In this study, the cardio‐protective effects of folic acid (FA) in early stage AD was elucidated using a triple‐transgenic (3xTg) Alzheimer's mouse model. Eleven‐month‐old C57BL/6 mice and 3xTg mice were assigned to five groups. During the four‐month treatment period, the low‐FA treatment group received FA through their diet, and the high‐FA treatment groups received 3 mg/dl folate in drinking water and were also gastric‐fed 1.2 mg/kg folate every day. In the C57B1/6J mice, treatment with high doses of FA (HFA) did not show any considerable effect compared to the control group or the low‐dose dietary FA treatment group. However, Alzheimer's mice treated with HFA showed enhanced cardio‐protection. Western blot analysis revealed that FA treatment restored SIRT1 expression, which was suppressed in 3xTg mice, through enhanced AMPK expression. FA significantly enhanced the IGF1 receptor survival mechanism in the hearts of the 3xTg mice and suppressed the expression‐intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis‐associated proteins. The results suggest that FA intake may significantly alleviate cellular pathological events in the heart associated with AD.
Impact of Trauma System Structure on Injury Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Moore Lynne , Champion Howard , Tardif Pier‐Alexandre , Kuimi Brice‐Lionel , O’Reilly Gerard , Leppaniemi Ari , Cameron Peter , Palmer Cameron S. , Abu‐Zidan Fikri M. , Gabbe Belinda , Gaarder Christine , Yanchar Natalie , Stelfox Henry Thomas , Coimbra Raul , Kortbeek John , Noonan Vanessa K. , Gunning Amy , Gordon Malcolm , Khajanchi Monty , Porgo Teegwendé V. , Turgeon Alexis F. , Leenen Luke ,   International Injury Care Improvement Initiative
Published: October 2017

Background

The effectiveness of trauma systems in decreasing injury mortality and morbidity has been well demonstrated. However, little is known about which components contribute to their effectiveness. We aimed to systematically review the evidence of the impact of trauma system components on clinically important injury outcomes.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and BIOSIS/Web of Knowledge, gray literature and trauma association Web sites to identify studies evaluating the association between at least one trauma system component and injury outcome. We calculated pooled effect estimates using inverse‐variance random‐effects models. We evaluated quality of evidence using GRADE criteria.

Results

We screened 15,974 records, retaining 41 studies for qualitative synthesis and 19 for meta‐analysis. Two recommended trauma system components were associated with reduced odds of mortality: inclusive design (odds ratio [OR] = 0.72 [0.65–0.80]) and helicopter transport (OR = 0.70 [0.55–0.88]). Pre‐Hospital Advanced Trauma Life Support was associated with a significant reduction in hospital days (mean difference [MD] = 5.7 [4.4–7.0]) but a nonsignificant reduction in mortality (OR = 0.78 [0.44–1.39]). Population density of surgeons was associated with a nonsignificant decrease in mortality (MD = 0.58 [−0.22 to 1.39]). Trauma system maturity was associated with a significant reduction in mortality (OR = 0.76 [0.68–0.85]). Quality of evidence was low or very low for mortality and healthcare utilization.

Conclusions

This review offers low‐quality evidence for the effectiveness of an inclusive design and trauma system maturity and very‐low‐quality evidence for helicopter transport in reducing injury mortality. Further research should evaluate other recommended components of trauma systems and non‐fatal outcomes and explore the impact of system component interactions.
Use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRs) in the biopharmaceutical industry for real-time determination of critical process parameters and integration of advanced feedback control strategies using MIDUS control
Authors: Vann Lucas , Sheppard John
Published: October 2017

Control of biopharmaceutical processes is critical to achieve consistent product quality. The most challenging unit operation to control is cell growth in bioreactors due to the exquisitely sensitive and complex nature of the cells that are converting raw materials into new cells and products. Current monitoring capabilities are increasing, however, the main challenge is now becoming the ability to use the data generated in an effective manner. There are a number of contributors to this challenge including integration of different monitoring systems as well as the functionality to perform data analytics in real-time to generate process knowledge and understanding. In addition, there is a lack of ability to easily generate strategies and close the loop to feedback into the process for advanced process control (APC). The current research aims to demonstrate the use of advanced monitoring tools along with data analytics to generate process understanding in an Escherichia coli fermentation process. NIR spectroscopy was used to measure glucose and critical amino acids in real-time to help in determining the root cause of failures associated with different lots of yeast extract. First, scale-down of the process was required to execute a simple design of experiment, followed by scale-up to build NIR models as well as soft sensors for advanced process control. In addition, the research demonstrates the potential for a novel platform technology that enables manufacturers to consistently achieve “goldenbatch” performance through monitoring, integration, data analytics, understanding, strategy design and control (MIDUS control). MIDUS control was employed to increase batch-to-batch consistency in final product titers, decrease the coefficient of variability from 8.49 to 1.16%, predict possible exhaust filter failures and close the loop to prevent their occurrence and avoid lost batches.
Debating Trade: The Legislative Politics of Free Trade Agreements in Latin America
Authors: Borges Fabian A.
Published: October 2017

Stereotypes of Latin American legislatures as either rubber stamps or obstructionist obscure important cross-national differences. This article argues that the ability and willingness of legislatures to serve as counterweights to presidents are functions of their capabilities, electoral rules and the president’s powers. These arguments are assessed by comparing the legislative debates of free trade agreements with the US and accompanying legislation in Chile, Costa Rica and Peru. The cases reveal that legislatures with strong capabilities behave proactively, proposing their own policies that challenge the executive’s. If they challenge the president, congresses with weaker capabilities do so primarily through obstruction. Further, electoral rules shape the way legislators go about challenging the executive. Whereas legislators elected under personal vote systems take their cues from constituents, those elected under party-vote systems follow the party line. Worryingly, however, even a capable and motivated legislature may be sidelined by a powerful executive.
Peer Comparison of Anti-MRSA Agent Prescription in the Inpatient Setting
Authors: Bork Jacqueline T. , Morgan Daniel J. , Heil Emily L. , Pineles Lisa , Kleinberg Michael
Published: October 2017

Peer comparison has potential as an effective antimicrobial stewardship intervention in the inpatient setting. We report a new metric, days of therapy per 100 service days, for comparing antibiotic utilization. Among 14 prescribers on the primary infectious diseases service during a 6-month period, we identified 1 outlier for each anti-MRSA agent.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:1506–1508
HEALTH RISK TRANSITION AND LOW MORTALITY PATTERNS AMONG A NATIONAL COHORT OF ASPIRATIONAL THAI OPEN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Kelly Matthew , Rao Chalapati , Seubsman Sam-Ang , Sleigh Adrian
Published: October 2017

In the last 50 years Thailand has achieved advanced demographic and health transitions. Many infectious diseases are controlled and infant and maternal mortality rates are among the lowest in the region. Within such a low mortality setting, however, substantial variations in health persist, with education being a major driver. This paper assesses the ongoing mortality transition in Thailand, examining relationships between risk factors and mortality outcomes among a large nationwide cohort of distance-learning Open University students, as well as examining the differential mortality benefit enjoyed by this educated group when compared with the general Thai population. The cohort comprised 87,151 participants, who in 2005 completed a questionnaire collecting detailed information on socio-demographics, health behaviours and health outcomes. Participants were aged 15–87 at baseline and lived in all regions of the country. Cohort members’ citizen identification numbers were matched with official death registration records to identify mortality among participants. A total of 1401 deaths were identified up to November 2016. Results show cohort study participants experiencing mortality at approximately one-third of the rate of the general population in the same age and sex groups. The gap between the mortality rates in the two groups widened with increased age. Differential risk factor prevalence among the two populations, particularly lower overweight and obesity prevalence and lower cigarette smoking rates in the cohort, can explain some of this variation. The largely unmeasurable effect of aspiration for life improvement through distance education while embedded in their communities is shown by this study to have a powerful effect on mortality risk. With overall education levels, including higher education, rising in Thailand this growing group of educated aspirational Thais may represent future trends in Thai mortality. Identifying the drivers and characteristics of this mortality variation can help inform policies to provide health services and to help reduce mortality in the whole population.
Assessing changes in distribution of the Endangered snow leopardPanthera unciaand its wild prey over 2 decades in the Indian Himalaya through interview-based occupancy surveys
Authors: Ghoshal Abhishek , Bhatnagar Yash Veer , Pandav Bivash , Sharma Koustubh , Mishra Charudutt , Raghunath R. , Suryawanshi Kulbhushansingh R.
Published: October 2017

Understanding species distributions, patterns of change and threats can form the basis for assessing the conservation status of elusive species that are difficult to survey. The snow leopardPanthera unciais the top predator of the Central and South Asian mountains. Knowledge of the distribution and status of this elusive felid and its wild prey is limited. Using recall-based key-informant interviews we estimated site use by snow leopards and their primary wild prey, blue sheepPseudois nayaurand Asiatic ibexCapra sibirica, across two time periods (past: 1985–1992; recent: 2008–2012) in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. We also conducted a threat assessment for the recent period. Probability of site use was similar across the two time periods for snow leopards, blue sheep and ibex, whereas for wild prey (blue sheep and ibex combined) overall there was an 8% contraction. Although our surveys were conducted in areas within the presumed distribution range of the snow leopard, we found snow leopards were using only 75% of the area (14,616 km2). Blue sheep and ibex had distinct distribution ranges. Snow leopards and their wild prey were not restricted to protected areas, which encompassed only 17% of their distribution within the study area. Migratory livestock grazing was pervasive across ibex distribution range and was the most widespread and serious conservation threat. Depredation by free-ranging dogs, and illegal hunting and wildlife trade were the other severe threats. Our results underscore the importance of community-based, landscape-scale conservation approaches and caution against reliance on geophysical and opinion-based distribution maps that have been used to estimate national and global snow leopard ranges.
EXPLORATION AND PREFERENTIAL RANKING OF PATIENT BENEFITS OF MEDICAL DEVICES: A NEW AND GENERIC INSTRUMENT FOR HEALTH ECONOMIC ASSESSMENTS
Authors: Lesén Eva , Björholt Ingela , Ingelgård Anders , Olson Fredrik J.
Published: October 2017

Objectives: For medical devices, benefits other than direct clinical effects may have a large impact on the patients’ well-being, but a standardized method for measuring these benefits is unavailable. The objective was to explore potential patient benefits provided by medical devices, and to assess the relative preferences of these benefits in the general Swedish population.

Methods: To identify attributes of patient benefit, healthcare personnel within a wide range of disease areas were interviewed. The generalized attributes were then validated among healthcare personnel, patient organizations, and manufacturers; in two pilot studies in the general population; and in two rounds of cognitive interviews. The general population's preferences of the attributes were measured with a usability-tested questionnaire in a final responding sample of 3,802 individuals, representative of the Swedish population.

Results: Twenty attributes were identified, encompassing aspects of integrity, sense of security, social participation, and convenience. When measuring the relative preferences, the response rate was 37.0 percent, and the results showed that the attributes with the highest preferences concerned reliability, reduced need for assistance, and sense of control of the illness/disability.

Conclusions: A set of twenty attributes of patient benefit relevant to users of medical devices was identified and validated. A questionnaire for patient-reported assessment of the benefits provided by a medical device was developed, based on the attributes. The questionnaire, designated MedTech20, provides a generic measurement method for the evaluation of medical devices used in a wide range of diseases/disabilities.
Why do children pay more attention to grammatical morphemes at the ends of sentences?
Authors: SUNDARA Megha
Published: October 2017

Children pay more attention to the beginnings and ends of sentences rather than the middle. In natural speech, ends of sentences are prosodically and segmentally enhanced; they are also privileged by sensory and recall advantages. We contrasted whether acoustic enhancement or sensory and recall-related advantages are necessary and sufficient for the salience of grammatical morphemes at the ends of sentences. We measured 22-month-olds’ listening times to grammatical and ungrammatical sentences with third person singular-s.Crucially, by cross-splicing the speech stimuli, acoustic enhancement and sensory and recall advantages were fully crossed. Only children presented with the verb in sentence-final position, a position with sensory and recall advantages, distinguished between the grammatical and ungrammatical sentences. Thus, sensory and recall advantages alone were necessary and sufficient to make grammatical morphemes at ends of sentences salient. These general processing constraints privilege ends of sentences over middles, regardless of the acoustic enhancement.
Surgical and endovascular venous arterialization for treatment of critical limb ischaemia
Authors: Lichtenberg Michael , Schreve Michiel A. , Ferraresi Roberto , van den Heuvel Daniel A. F. , Ünlü Çagdas , Cabane Vincent , Kum Steven
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Patients with critical limb ischaemia have a poor life expectancy. Aggressive revascularization is accepted in order to preserve their independence in the final phase of their lives. Bypass surgery and more recently endovascular interventions with angioplasty and stenting have become the treatment of choice to prevent amputation and to resolve pain. However, as many as 20 % of patients with critical limb ischaemia are unsuitable candidates for a vascular intervention because of extensive occlusions of outflow in the crural and pedal vessels. Such “no-option critical limb ischaemia” may be treated with venous arterialization. In the present review, we discuss the history of the venous arterialization procedure, the mechanisms, the different techniques, and complications of venous arterialization.
Prevalence Rate and Course of Symptoms of Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)
Authors: Grau Katharina , Plener Paul L. , Hohmann Sarah , Fegert Jörg M. , Brähler Elmar , Straub Joana
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Objective: According to DSM-5, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is characterized by chronic temper outbursts and irritable moods. So far, little is known about its prevalence rate, course and influence on individual well-being. We assessed the prevalence rates of DMDD symptoms during adulthood and primary school age – the latter retrospectively – and studied their relationship with psychiatric disorders and socioeconomic variables. Methods: A total of 2,413 subjects, aged 18–94 years, participated in this population-based, representative study based on self-reports. Results: 12 (0.50 %) subjects reported elevated DMDD symptoms during adulthood, and 19 (0.79 %) reported elevated DMDD symptoms during primary school age. DMDD symptoms were associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety symptoms. Those reporting elevated DMDD symptoms during adulthood were more often single or divorced, and those reporting elevated DMDD symptoms during primary school age were more often childless and unemployed during adulthood compared to subjects without DMDD symptoms. Conclusions: DMDD symptoms seem to show a chronic course and go hand in hand with elevated psychiatric symptoms and impaired socioeconomic and demographic status.
Map Provides High-Resolution Look at Nearly Entire Arctic Region
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: October 2017

Researchers highlight the value of the time element incorporated into imagery and having a baseline for revisiting and comparing topography.
A broadly tunable synthesis of linear α-olefins
Authors: Gollwitzer Andreas , Dietel Thomas , Kretschmer Winfried P. , Kempe Rhett
Published: October 2017

The catalytic synthesis of linear α-olefins from ethylene is a technologically highly important reaction. A synthesis concept allowing the formation of selective products and various linear α-olefin product distributions with one catalyst system is highly desirable. Here, we describe a trimetallic catalyst system (Y–Al–Ni) consisting of a rare earth metal polymerization catalyst which can mediate coordinative chain transfer to triethylaluminum combined with a simultaneously operating nickel β-hydride elimination/transfer catalyst. This nickel catalyst displaces the grown alkyl chains forming linear α-olefins and recycles the aluminum-based chain transfer agent. With one catalyst system, we can synthesize product spectra ranging from selective 1-butene formation to α-olefin distributions centered at 850 gmol−1 with a low polydispersity. The key to this highly flexible linear α-olefin synthesis is the easy tuning of the rates of the Y and Ni catalysis independently of each other. The reaction is substoichiometric or formally catalytic regarding the chain transfer agent.
Thiamine deficiency impairs common eider (Somateria mollissima) reproduction in the field
Authors: Mörner Torsten , Hansson Tomas , Carlsson Le , Berg Anna-Lena , Ruiz Muñoz Yolanda , Gustavsson Hanna , Mattsson Roland , Balk Lennart
Published: October 2017

The Baltic Sea population of the common eider (Somateria mollissima) has declined dramatically during the last two decades. Recently, widespread episodic thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency has been demonstrated in feral birds and suggested to contribute significantly to declining populations. Here we show that the decline of the common eider population in the Baltic Sea is paralleled by high mortality of the pulli a few days after hatch, owing to thiamine deficiency and probably also thereby associated abnormal behaviour resulting in high gull predation. An experiment with artificially incubated common eider eggs collected in the field revealed that thiamine treatment of pulli had a therapeutic effect on the thiamine status of the brain and prevented death. The mortality was 53% in untreated specimens, whereas it was only 7% in thiamine treated specimens. Inability to dive was also linked to brain damage typical for thiamine deficiency. Our results demonstrate how thiamine deficiency causes a range of symptoms in the common eider pulli, as well as massive die-offs a few days after hatch, which probably are the major explanation of the recent dramatic population declines.
Determining the contents and cell origins of apoptotic bodies by flow cytometry
Authors: Jiang Lanzhou , Paone Stephanie , Caruso Sarah , Atkin-Smith Georgia K. , Phan Thanh Kha , Hulett Mark D. , Poon Ivan K. H.
Published: October 2017

Over 200 billion cells undergo apoptosis every day in the human body in order to maintain tissue homeostasis. Increased apoptosis can also occur under pathological conditions including infection and autoimmune disease. During apoptosis, cells can fragment into subcellular membrane-bound vesicles known as apoptotic bodies (ApoBDs). We recently developed a flow cytometry-based method to accurately differentiate ApoBDs from other particles (e.g. cells and debris). In the present study, we aim to further characterize subsets of ApoBDs based on intracellular contents and cell type-specific surface markers. Utilizing a flow cytometry-based approach, we demonstrated that intracellular contents including nuclear materials and mitochondria are distributed to some, but not all ApoBDs. Interestingly, the mechanism of ApoBD formation could affect the distribution of intracellular contents into ApoBDs. Furthermore, we also showed that ApoBDs share the same surface markers as their cell of origin, which can be used to distinguish cell type-specific ApoBDs from a mixed culture. These studies demonstrate that ApoBDs are not homogeneous and can be divided into specific subclasses based on intracellular contents and cell surface markers. The described flow cytometry-based method to study ApoBDs could be used in future studies to better understand the function of ApoBDs.
Percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing-a minimally invasive approach for renal cyst treatment
Authors: Hu Jia , Dirie Najib Isse , Yang Jun , Xia Ding , Lu Yuchao , Yu Xiao , Wang Shaogang
Published: October 2017

Most simple renal cysts rarely require therapy. When it grows to such a large size, regardless of the presence of symptomatology, surgical intervention is required. In this study, we explored a new approach called percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing for treatment renal cysts and evaluated its safety and efficacy. 71 simple renal cyst patients with surgical indications were enrolled, including 6 patients with a peripelvic cyst and 5 patients coexisting ipsilateral calculi. Under ultrasound guidance, an eighteen-gauge needle was placed inside the cyst cavity, and a guidewire was introduced followed by sequential dilation up to 28 F. The extra-parenchymal portion of cyst wall was dissociated and incised using either a Thulium or Holmium laser, and a pathological examination was performed. Renal calculi were treated simultaneously. For peripelvic cyst patients, one end of a double-J stent was inserted into the cyst cavity to prevent auto-closure. Mean of 11.7 months follow-up, the results showed that the cyst was completely resolved in 53 patients, its size was reduced to less than 50% in 15 patients, and treatment failed in only 3 anterior cyst patients, suggesting that percutaneous ureteroscopy laser unroofing is an effective and less invasive alternative for treatment of renal cysts in selected patients.
Geometry-dependent band shift and dielectric modification of nanoporous Si nanowires
Authors: Yu W. B. , Ouyang G.
Published: October 2017

In order to obtain a detailed understanding of the modulation of electronic properties in nanoporous Si (np-Si) nanowires with containing ordered, nanometer-sized cylindrical pores, we propose a theoretical method to clarify the band shift and associated with the dielectric modification determined by the geometrical parameters, including nanowire diameter, pore size, pore spacing and porosity, in terms of size-dependent surface energy and atomic-bond-relaxation correlation mechanism. Our results reveal that the self-equilibrium strain induced by the atoms located at inner and outer surfaces with high ratio of under-coordinated atoms as well as elastic interaction among pores in np-Si nanowires play the dominant role in the bandgap shift and dielectric depression. The tunable electronic properties of np-Si nanowires with negative curvature make them attractive for nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices.
Orphaned female elephant social bonds reflect lack of access to mature adults
Authors: Goldenberg Shifra Z. , Wittemyer George
Published: October 2017

Compensatory social behavior in nonhuman animals following maternal loss has been documented, but understanding of how orphans allocate bonding to reconstruct their social networks is limited. Successful social integration may be critical to survival and reproduction for highly social species and, therefore, may be tied to population persistence. We examined the social partners involved in affiliative interactions of female orphans and non-orphans in an elephant population in Samburu, northern Kenya that experienced heightened adult mortality driven by drought and intense ivory poaching. We contrasted partners across different competitive contexts to gain insight to the influence of resource availability on social interactions. Though the number of partners did not differ between orphans and non-orphans, their types of social partners did. Orphans interacted with sisters and matriarchs less while feeding than did non-orphans, but otherwise their affiliates were similar. While resting under spatially concentrated shade, orphans had markedly less access to mature adults but affiliated instead with sisters, bulls, and age mates. Orphan propensity to strengthen bonds with non-dominant animals appears to offer routes to social integration following maternal loss, but lack of interaction with adult females suggests orphans may experience decreased resource access and associated fitness costs in this matriarchal society.
Acute and long-term cardioprotective effects of the Traditional Chinese Medicine MLC901 against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice
Authors: Vincent Anne , Covinhes Aurélie , Barrère Christian , Gallot Laura , Thoumala Soulit , Piot Christophe , Heurteaux Catherine , Lazdunski Michel , Nargeot Joël , Barrère-Lemaire Stéphanie
Published: October 2017

MLC901, a traditional Chinese medicine containing a cocktail of active molecules, both reduces cerebral infarction and improves recovery in patients with ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute and long-term benefits of MLC901 in ischemic and reperfused mouse hearts. Ex vivo, under physiological conditions, MLC901 did not show any modification in heart rate and contraction amplitude. However, upon an ischemic insult, MLC901 administration during reperfusion, improved coronary flow in perfused hearts. In vivo, MLC901 (4 µg/kg) intravenous injection 5 minutes before reperfusion provided a decrease in both infarct size (49.8%) and apoptosis (49.9%) after 1 hour of reperfusion. Akt and ERK1/2 survival pathways were significantly activated in the myocardium of those mice. In the 4-month clinical follow-up upon an additional continuous per os administration, MLC901 treatment decreased cardiac injury as revealed by a 45%-decrease in cTnI plasmatic concentrations and an improved cardiac performance assessed by echocardiography. A histological analysis revealed a 64%-decreased residual scar fibrosis and a 44%-increased vascular density in the infarct region. This paper demonstrates that MLC901 treatment was able to provide acute and long-term cardioprotective effects in a murine model of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in vivo.
The Effects of Static and Dynamic Loading on Biodegradable Magnesium Pins In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Koo Youngmi , Lee Hae-Beom , Dong Zhongyun , Kotoka Ruben , Sankar Jagannathan , Huang Nan , Yun Yeoheung
Published: October 2017

Here we systematically assess the degradation of biodegradable magnesium pins (as-drawn pure Mg, as-cast Mg-Zn-Mn, and extruded Mg-Zn-Mn) in a bioreactor applying cyclical loading and simulated body fluid (SBF) perfusion. Cyclical mechanical loading and interstitial flow accelerated the overall corrosion rate, leading to loss of mechanical strength. When compared to the in vivo degradation (degradation rate, product formation, uniform or localized pitting, and stress distribution) of the same materials in mouse subcutaneous and dog tibia implant models, we demonstrate that the in vitro model facilitates the analysis of the complex degradation behavior of Mg-based alloys in vivo. This study progresses the development of a suitable in vitro model to examine the effects of mechanical stress and interstitial flow on biodegradable implant materials.
A network meta-analysis on the beneficial effect of medical expulsive therapy after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
Authors: Yang Tong-Xin , Liao Bang-Hua , Chen Yun-Tian , Li Hong , He Qing , Liu Qin-Yu , Wang Kun-Jie
Published: October 2017

We applied a newly introduced method, network meta-analysis, to re-evaluate the expulsion effect of drugs including tamsulosin, doxazosin, nifedipine, terazosin and rowatinex after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) as described in the literature. A systematic search was performed in Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library for articles published before March 2016. Twenty-six studies with 2775 patients were included. The primary outcome was the number of patients with successful stone expulsion. The data were subdivided into three groups according to duration of follow-up. A standard network model was established in each subgroup. In 15-day follow-up results, SUCRA outcome showed the ranking of effects was: doxazosin > tamsulosin > rowatinex > nifedipine > terazosin (88.6, 77.4, 58.6, 32.2 and 30.4, respectively). In 45-day follow-up results, SUCRA ranking was: tamsulosin > nifedipine > rowatinex (69.4, 67.2 and 62.6, respectively). In 90-day follow-up results, SUCRA ranking was: doxazosin > rowatinex > tamsulosin (84.1, 68.1 and 49.1, respectively). In conclusion, doxazosin and tamsulosin have potential to be the first choice for pharmacological therapy to promote the expulsion of urinary stone fragments after ESWL, with this doxazosin can improve the SFR in the long term, while tamsulosin may result more in accelerating the process of expulsion.
Ly6Chi inflammatory monocytes promote susceptibility to Leishmania donovani infection
Authors: Terrazas Cesar , Varikuti Sanjay , Oghumu Steve , Steinkamp Heidi M. , Ardic Nurittin , Kimble Jennifer , Nakhasi Hira , Satoskar Abhay R.
Published: October 2017

Ly6Chiinflammatory monocytes (iMO) are critical for host defense against toxoplasmosis and malaria but their role in leishmaniasis is unclear. In this study, we report a detrimental role of Ly6ChiiMOs in visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused byLeishmania donovani. We demonstrate that Ly6ChiiMOs are continuously recruited into the spleen and liver duringL. donovaniinfection and they are preferential targets for the parasite. Using microarray-based gene expression profiling, we show that Ly6ChiiMOs isolated from the infected liver and spleen have distinct phenotypic and activation profiles. Furthermore, we demonstrate that blocking the recruitment of Ly6ChiiMOs into the liver and spleen duringL. donovaniinfection using a CCR2 antagonist reduces the frequency of the pathogenic IFN-γ/IL10 dual producer CD4+ T cells in the spleen and leads to a significant reduction in parasite loads in the liver and spleen. Using STAT1−/− mice we show that STAT1 is critical for mediating the recruitment of Ly6ChiiMOs into organs duringL. donovaniinfection, and adaptive transfer of wild type Ly6ChiiMOs into STAT1−/− recipients renders them susceptible to disease. Our findings reveal an unexpected pathogenic role for Ly6ChiiMOs in promoting parasite survival in VL and open the possibility of targeting this population for host-directed therapy during VL.
Impact of Amyloid Burden on Regional Functional Synchronization in the Cognitively Normal Older Adults
Authors: Kang Dong Woo , Choi Woo Hee , Jung Won Sang , Um Yoo Hyun , Lee Chang Uk , Lim Hyun Kook
Published: October 2017

Previous studies have shown aberrant functional connectivity in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the effects of beta-amyloid (Aβ) retention on regional functional synchronization in cognitively normal older adults still remain unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the distinctive association pattern between Aβ retention and regional functional synchronization in cognitively normal older adults. Sixty-one older adults with normal cognition underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging and regional functional synchronizations were quantified using regional homogeneity (ReHo). Subjects were dichotomized using 18F-Florbetaben positron emission tomography imaging into subjects with (Aβ+; n = 30) and without (Aβ-; n = 31) Aβ burden. The Aβ+ group exhibited significantly higher ReHo in the fusiform gyrus and lower ReHo in the precuneus compared with the Aβ- group. We found significant negative correlations between global Aβ retention and ReHo in the precuneus and medial prefrontal cortex and positive correlations between global Aβ retention and ReHo in the bilateral lingual gyrus, left fusiform gyrus, and right middle temporal gyrus in the Aβ+ group. Our findings suggest that regional functional synchronization might have distinctive association patterns with Aβ retention in the cognitively normal older adults. These findings can enrich the functional characterization of early stages of disease progression in AD.
ACVR2B/Fc counteracts chemotherapy-induced loss of muscle and bone mass
Authors: Barreto Rafael , Kitase Yukiko , Matsumoto Tsutomu , Pin Fabrizio , Colston Kyra C. , Couch Katherine E. , O’Connell Thomas M. , Couch Marion E. , Bonewald Lynda F. , Bonetto Andrea
Published: October 2017

Chemotherapy promotes the development of cachexia, a debilitating condition characterized by muscle and fat loss. ACVR2B/Fc, an inhibitor of the Activin Receptor 2B signaling, has been shown to preserve muscle mass and prolong survival in tumor hosts, and to increase bone mass in models of osteogenesis imperfecta and muscular dystrophy. We compared the effects of ACVR2B/Fc on muscle and bone mass in mice exposed to Folfiri. In addition to impairing muscle mass and function, Folfiri had severe negative effects on bone, as shown by reduced trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), thickness (Tb.Th), number (Tb.N), connectivity density (Conn.Dn), and by increased separation (Tb.Sp) in trabecular bone of the femur and vertebra. ACVR2B/Fc prevented the loss of muscle mass and strength, and the loss of trabecular bone in femurs and vertebrae following Folfiri administration. Neither Folfiri nor ACVR2B/Fc had effects on femoral cortical bone, as shown by unchanged cortical bone volume fraction (Ct.BV/TV), thickness (Ct.Th) and porosity. Our results suggest that Folfiri is responsible for concomitant muscle and bone degeneration, and that ACVR2B/Fc prevents these derangements. Future studies are required to determine if the same protective effects are observed in combination with other anticancer regimens or in the presence of cancer.
Computational Design of Protein Function
Authors: Garcia-Borràs Marc , Houk Kendall N. , Jiménez-Osés Gonzalo
Published: October 2017

The computational design of enzymes is a tremendous challenge for both chemistry and biochemistry. The ability to design stable and functional biocatalysts that could operate under different conditions to perform chemical reactions without precedent in nature, allowing the large-scale production of chemicals à la carte, would revolutionise both synthetic, pharmacologic and materials chemistry. Despite the great advances achieved, this highly multidisciplinary area of research is still in its infancy. This chapter describes the ‘inside-out’ protocol for computational enzyme design and both the achievements and limitations of the current technology are highlighted. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations have proved to be invaluable in the enzyme design process, constituting an important tool for discovering elusive catalytically relevant conformations of the engineered or designed enzyme. As a complement to the ‘inside-out’ design protocol, different examples where hybrid QM/MM approaches have been directly applied to discover beneficial mutations in rational computational enzyme design are described.
Application of Molecular Modelling to Speed-up the Lead Discovery Process
Authors: Trist Iuni M. L. , Botta Maurizio , Fallacara Anna Lucia
Published: October 2017

By transforming many life-threatening diseases to almost negligible problems, drug discovery has improved life expectancy and our quality-of-life in general. However, in recent years, the flat trend of new drugs reaching the market, coupled with the increase of costs of this long process has led the pharmaceutical sector to a ‘crisis’. For this reason, research and development has turned to cutting-edge technology to reduce time and expense. In this chapter, we will discuss how the impressive improvements in both structure- and ligand-based molecular modelling approaches can help to drive and speed up drug discovery, making important contributions at all levels of the process.
Ultra-sensitive determination of inorganic arsenic valence by solution cathode glow discharge-atomic emission spectrometry coupled with hydride generation
Authors: Guo Xiaohong , Peng Xiaoxu , Li Qing , Mo Jiamei , Du Yiping , Wang Zheng
Published: October 2017

A simple and ultra-sensitive method based on HG-SCGD-AES was developed for determination inorganic arsenic valence.
Antiproliferative activities of alkaloid-like compounds
Authors: Xu XiXi , Rawling Tristan , Roseblade Ariane , Bishop Roger , Ung Alison T.
Published: October 2017

Tricyclic alkaloid-like compounds were synthesised in a few steps, via the bridging Ritter reaction.
Stereoselective annulation between an allene, an alkene, and two nitrosoarenes to access bis(isoxazoliodine) derivatives
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Jadhav Prakash D. , Skaria Manisha , Liu Rai-Shung
Published: October 2017

This work reports metal-free annulations among one allene, two nitrosoarenes and one electron-deficient alkene to afford bis(isoxazolidine) derivatives stereoselectively.
Photochemical and oxidative cyclisation of tetraphenylpyrroles
Authors: Ferguson Jayne L. , Squire Marie A. , Fitchett Christopher M.
Published: October 2017

The cyclisation of tetraphenylpyrroles under complementary conditions allows controlled cyclisation giving products dependent on N-substitution, with both tandem rearrangement and halogenation being observed.
Simple and large-scale synthesis of β-phase molybdenum carbides as highly stable catalysts for dry reforming of methane
Authors: Gao Haifeng , Yao Zhiwei , Shi Yan , Jia Renren , Liang Feixue , Sun Yue , Mao Wei , Wang Haiyan
Published: October 2017

The catalytic stability of monometallic β-Mo2C/CNTs was found to be superior to that of bimetallic Ni/β-Mo2C under similar reaction conditions.
CNTs based improved chlorine sensor from non-covalently anchored multi-walled carbon nanotubes with hexa-decafluorinated cobalt phthalocyanines
Authors: Sharma Anshul Kumar , Mahajan Aman , Bedi R. K. , Kumar Subodh , Debnath A. K. , Aswal D. K.
Published: October 2017

To study the effect of synergetic interactions between metal-phthalocyanine and carbon nanotubes for gas sensing characteristics of carbon nanotubes, we have synthesized F16CoPc/MWCNTs–COOH hybrid.
Effects of GaxZn1−xO nanorods on the photoelectric properties of n-ZnO nanorods/p-GaN heterojunction light-emitting diodes
Authors: Li Rui , Yu Chunyan , Dong Hailiang , Jia Wei , Li Tianbao , Zhang Zhuxia , Xu Bingshe
Published: October 2017

A Ga-doped ZnO nanorod array has been synthesized on a p-GaN/Al2O3 substrate by a hydrothermal method at low temperature.
Multilevel data storage memory based on polycrystalline SrTiO3 ultrathin film
Authors: Hou Pengfei , Gao Zhanzhan , Ni Kaikai
Published: October 2017

Resistive switching random access memory (RRAM) has recently inspired scientific and commercial interest due to its high operation speed, high scalability, and multilevel data storage potential.
N-Channel and P-channel few-layer InSe photoelectric devices
Authors: Tao Lin , Li Yongtao
Published: October 2017

A controllable strategy for the fabrication of N-channel and P-channel few-layer InSe field-effect transistors has been developed.
Tailoring oxygen redox reactions in ionic liquid based Li/O2 batteries by means of the Li+ dopant concentration
Authors: Cecchetto Laura , Tesio Alvaro Y. , Olivares-Marín Mara , Espinasa Marc Guardiola , Croce Fausto , Tonti Dino
Published: October 2017

Li+ dopant concentration in ionic liquid electrolyte controls the discharge mechanism in Li/O2 batteries.
A hybrid catalyst of Pt/CoNiO2 on carbon nanotubes and its synergetic effect towards remarkable ethanol electro-oxidation in alkaline media
Authors: Tang Tingting , Gan Qiuping , Guo Xiaohui , Dong Hailin , Zhang Jifang , Zhao Yanchun , Tian Jianniao , Yang Xiulin
Published: October 2017

A hybrid catalyst of Pt/CoNiO2 on carbon nanotubes reveals ultrahigh electrocatalytic activity and long-term stability for ethanol oxidation in an alkaline solution.
Encapsulation of zinc hexacyanoferrate nanocubes with manganese oxide nanosheets for high-performance rechargeable zinc ion batteries
Authors: Lu Ke , Song Bin , Zhang Yuxin , Ma Houyi , Zhang Jintao
Published: October 2017

The encapsulation of zinc hexacyanoferrate nanocubes with manganese oxide nanosheets enables the combination of intercalative core nanocube and capacitive shell together with reversible redox reactions for enhancing performance of Zn-ion batteries.
Boosting molecular oxygen activation of SrTiO3by engineering exposed facets for highly efficient photocatalytic oxidation
Authors: Wu Xiaoyong , Wang Xiaoyang , Li Jun , Zhang Gaoke
Published: October 2017

The experimental and theoretical results confirmed that the activation of O2in SrTiO3could be improved by controlling exposed facets.
Insights into chemical doping to engineer the carbon nanotube/silicon photovoltaic heterojunction interface
Authors: Yu L. , Grace T. , Batmunkh M. , Dadkhah M. , Shearer C. , Shapter J.
Published: October 2017

Graphene oxide/single-wall carbon nanotube (GOCNT) hybrid films have been used to fabricate heterojunction solar cells with silicon (Si) due to their compatibility with both aqueous and organic processing.
Spectroscopic and electrical signatures of acceptor states in solution processed Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 solar cells
Authors: Tiwari Devendra , Skidchenko Ekaterina , Bowers Jake W. , Yakushev Michael V. , Martin Robert W. , Fermin David J.
Published: October 2017

The nature and dynamics of acceptor states in solution-processed Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) thin films are investigated by variable temperature photoluminescence (PL) and electrical impedance spectroscopy.