bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FISSA: A neuropil decontamination toolbox for calcium imaging signals
Authors: Keemink Sander W. , Lowe Scott C. , Pakan Janelle M. P. , Dylda Evelyn , van Rossum Mark C. W. , Rochefort Nathalie L.
Published: February 2018

In vivo calcium imaging has become a method of choice to image neuronal population activity throughout the nervous system. These experiments generate large sequences of images. Their analysis is computationally intensive and typically involves motion correction, image segmentation into regions of interest (ROIs), and extraction of fluorescence traces from each ROI. Out of focus fluorescence from surrounding neuropil and other cells can strongly contaminate the signal assigned to a given ROI. In this study, we introduce the FISSA toolbox (Fast Image Signal Separation Analysis) for neuropil decontamination. Given pre-defined ROIs, the FISSA toolbox automatically extracts the surrounding local neuropil and performs blind-source separation with non-negative matrix factorization. Using both simulated and in vivo data, we show that this toolbox performs similarly or better than existing published methods. FISSA requires only little RAM, and allows for fast processing of large datasets even on a standard laptop. The FISSA toolbox is available in Python, with an option for MATLAB format outputs, and can easily be integrated into existing workflows. It is available from Github and the standard Python repositories.
Dynamic behavior of a rotary nanomotor in argon environments
Authors: Cai Kun , Shi Jiao , Yu Jingzhou , Qin Qing H.
Published: February 2018

When argon is used as a protecting gas in the fabrication or working environment of a nanodevice, absorption of some argon atoms onto the surface of the device lead to different responses. In this work, the rotation of the rotor in a carbon nanotube (CNT)-based rotary nanomotor in argon environment is investigated. In the rotary nanomotor, two outer CNTs act as the stator and are used to constrain the inner CNT (i.e., the rotor). The rotor is driven to rotate by the stator due to their collision during thermal vibration of their atoms. A stable rotational frequency (SRF) of the rotor occurs when the rotor reaches a dynamic equilibrium state. The value of the SRF decreases exponentially with an increase in the initial argon density. At dynamic equilibrium date, some of the argon atoms rotate synchronously with the rotor when they are absorbed onto either internal or external surface of the rotor. The interaction between the rest of the argon atoms and the rotor is stronger at higher densities of argon, resulting in lower values of the SRF. These principles provide insight for future experimentation and fabrication of such rotary nanomotor.
Equal-Spin Andreev Reflection on Junctions of Spin-Resolved Quantum Hall Bulk State and Spin-Singlet Superconductor
Authors: Matsuo Sadashige , Ueda Kento , Baba Shoji , Kamata Hiroshi , Tateno Mizuki , Shabani Javad , Palmstrøm Christopher J. , Tarucha Seigo
Published: February 2018

The recent development of superconducting spintronics has revealed the spin-triplet superconducting proximity effect from a spin-singlet superconductor into a spin-polarized normal metal. In addition recently superconducting junctions using semiconductors are in demand for highly controlled experiments to engineer topological superconductivity. Here we report experimental observation of Andreev reflection in junctions of spin-resolved quantum Hall (QH) states in an InAs quantum well and the spin-singlet superconductor NbTi. The measured conductance indicates a sub-gap feature and two peaks on the outer side of the sub-gap feature in the QH plateau-transition regime increases. The observed structures can be explained by considering transport with Andreev reflection from two channels, one originating from equal-spin Andreev reflection intermediated by spin-flip processes and second arising from normal Andreev reflection. This result indicates the possibility to induce the superconducting proximity gap in the the QH bulk state, and the possibility for the development of superconducting spintronics in semiconductor devices.
Serum profile changes in postpartum women with a history of childhood maltreatment: a combined metabolite and lipid fingerprinting study
Authors: Koenig Alexandra M , Karabatsiakis Alexander , Stoll Thomas , Wilker Sarah , Hennessy Thomas , Hill Michelle M , Kolassa Iris-Tatjana
Published: February 2018

Childhood maltreatment (CM) can increase the risk of adverse health consequences in adulthood. A deeper insight in underlying biological pathways would be of high clinical relevance for early detection and intervention. The untargeted investigation of all detectable metabolites and lipids in biological samples represents a promising new avenue to identify so far unknown biological pathways associated with CM. Using an untargeted approach, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was performed on peripheral blood serum samples collected three months postpartum from 105 women with varying degrees of CM exposure. Comprehensive univariate and multivariate statistical analyses consistently identified eight biomarker candidates putatively belonging to antioxidant-, lipid-, and endocannabinoid-associated pathways, which differentiated between women with and without CM. Classification algorithms allowed for clear prediction of the CM status with high accuracy scores (~80–90%). Similar results were obtained when excluding all women with a lifetime psychiatric diagnosis. In order to confirm the identities of these promising biomarker candidates, LC-MS/MS analysis was applied, confirming one of the metabolites as bilirubin IXa, a potent antioxidant with immunomodulatory properties. In sum, our results suggest novel pathways that could explain long-term effects of CM on health and disease by influencing biological patterns associated with energy metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
GSK3 is a negative regulator of the thermogenic program in brown adipocytes
Authors: Markussen Lasse K. , Winther Sally , Wicksteed Barton , Hansen Jacob B.
Published: February 2018

Brown adipose tissue is a promising therapeutic target in metabolic disorders due to its ability to dissipate energy and improve systemic insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis. β-Adrenergic stimulation of brown adipocytes leads to an increase in oxygen consumption and induction of a thermogenic gene program that includes uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (Fgf21). In kinase inhibitor screens, we have identified glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) as a negative regulator of basal and β-adrenergically stimulated Fgf21 expression in cultured brown adipocytes. In addition, inhibition of GSK3 also caused increased Ucp1 expression and oxygen consumption. β-Adrenergic stimulation triggered an inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK3 in a protein kinase A (PKA)-dependent manner. Mechanistically, inhibition of GSK3 activated the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase 3/6-p38 MAPK-activating transcription factor 2 signaling module. In summary, our data describe GSK3 as a novel negative regulator of β-adrenergic signaling in brown adipocytes.
DEHP deregulates adipokine levels and impairs fatty acid storage in human SGBS-adipocytes
Authors: Schaedlich Kristina , Gebauer Scarlett , Hunger Luise , Beier Laura-Sophie , Koch Holger M. , Wabitsch Martin , Fischer Bernd , Ernst Jana
Published: February 2018

DEHP is a plasticizer which has been used in plastic products of everyday use for decades. Studies in mice and murine cell culture models identified DEHP as an endocrine disruptor that may also act as an obesogen. As this is of high concern in respect of the worldwide obesity epidemic, our aim is the translation of these findings into a human model system. On the basis of DOHaD, we investigated the influence of an environmentally relevant dose of DEHP [50 µg/ml] on adipogenesis in the human cell culture model SGBS. Pre-adipocytes were exposed to DEHP and differentiated into mature adipocytes. At different stages of differentiation, markers of adipogenesis like GLUT4, FABP4, LPL and PPARs, and of signaling pathways like AMPK/ACC2, JAK/STAT and MAPK were analyzed. Functional markers like adipokine secretion and triglyceride content as well as ROS production were measured in mature adipocytes. We found significantly lower expression levels of adipogenic markers, a reduction in lipid accumulation, higher leptin- and reduced adiponectin levels in the supernatant of treated adipocytes. Moreover, ROS production was significantly elevated after DEHP-exposure. In conclusion, DEHP led to lower grade of adipogenic differentiation in human SGBS-adipocytes under the chosen conditions.
Modulating bacterial and gut mucosal interactions with engineered biofilm matrix proteins
Authors: Duraj-Thatte Anna M. , Praveschotinunt Pichet , Nash Trevor R. , Ward Frederick R. , Nguyen Peter Q. , Joshi Neel S.
Published: February 2018

Extracellular appendages play a significant role in mediating communication between bacteria and their host. Curli fibers are a class of bacterial fimbria that is highly amenable to engineering. We demonstrate the use of engineered curli fibers to rationally program interactions between bacteria and components of the mucosal epithelium. Commensal E. coli strains were engineered to produce recombinant curli fibers fused to the trefoil family of human cytokines. Biofilms formed from these strains bound more mucins than those producing wild-type curli fibers, and modulated mucin rheology as well. When treated with bacteria producing the curli-trefoil fusions mammalian cells behaved identically in terms of their migration behavior as when they were treated with the corresponding soluble trefoil factors. Overall, this demonstrates the potential utility of curli fibers as a scaffold for the display of bioactive domains and an untapped approach to rationally modulating host-microbe interactions using bacterial matrix proteins.
HDAC4 regulates satellite cell proliferation and differentiation by targeting P21 and Sharp1 genes
Authors: Marroncelli Nicoletta , Bianchi Marzia , Bertin Marco , Consalvi Silvia , Saccone Valentina , De Bardi Marco , Puri Pier Lorenzo , Palacios Daniela , Adamo Sergio , Moresi Viviana
Published: February 2018

Skeletal muscle exhibits a high regenerative capacity, mainly due to the ability of satellite cells to replicate and differentiate in response to appropriate stimuli. Epigenetic control is effective at different stages of this process. It has been shown that the chromatin-remodeling factor HDAC4 is able to regulate satellite cell proliferation and commitment. However, its molecular targets are still uncovered. To explain the signaling pathways regulated by HDAC4 in satellite cells, we generated tamoxifen-inducible mice with conditional inactivation of HDAC4 in Pax7+ cells (HDAC4 KO mice). We found that the proliferation and differentiation of HDAC4 KO satellite cells were compromised, although similar amounts of satellite cells were found in mice. Moreover, we found that the inhibition of HDAC4 in satellite cells was sufficient to block the differentiation process. By RNA-sequencing analysis we identified P21 and Sharp1 as HDAC4 target genes. Reducing the expression of these target genes in HDAC4 KO satellite cells, we also defined the molecular pathways regulated by HDAC4 in the epigenetic control of satellite cell expansion and fusion.
Nasopharyngeal Pneumococcal Carriage in Nigeria: a two-site, population-based survey
Authors: Adetifa Ifedayo M. O. , Adamu Aishatu L. , Karani Angela , Waithaka Michael , Odeyemi Kofo A. , Okoromah Christy A. N. , Bello Mohammed M. , Abubakar Isa S. , Inem Victor , Scott J. Anthony. G.
Published: February 2018

Changes in nasopharyngeal (NP) carriage of vaccine-type (VT) Streptococcus pneumoniae can be used to assess the effectiveness of a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV10). We conducted a baseline carriage survey in rural (Kumbotso, Kano) and urban (Pakoto, Ogun) Nigeria. In this cross-sectional study, we obtained data on demography, clinical history, risk factors, and took NP swabs for pneumococcal culture. We calculated crude and age-standardised carriage prevalence and used log-binomial regression to assess risk factors for carriage. Among children aged <5 years, 92% (95% CI: 88–95%) and 78% (73–82%), respectively, carried any pneumococcus and 48% and 50%, respectively, carried PCV10 serotypes. In Kumbotso, carriage prevalence was >40% across all ages. The age-standardized prevalence of pneumococcal carriage was 66% in Kumbotso and 40% in Pakoto. The most commonly identified serotypes were 19 F, 6 A and 23 F. Risk factors for carriage were young age, recent rhinorrhoea, cohabitation with ≥2 children aged <5 years, and sharing a bed with ≥2 persons. Pneumococcal carriage prevalence is high in this Nigerian population. Persisting prevalence of VT-carriage in older children and adults suggests that PCV10 introduction in children will not eliminate transmission of vaccine serotypes rapidly. High vaccine coverage will therefore be required to ensure full protection of children.
Elevated Serum Interleukin-34 Level in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Is Associated with Disease Activity
Authors: Xie Huan Huan , Shen Hui , Zhang Li , Cui Mei Ying , Xia Li Ping , Lu Jing
Published: February 2018

We measured the interleukin-34 (IL-34) level in sera from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Blood tests, including assays to determine C-reactive protein (CRP), complement (C) 3, C4, immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgG, IgM, anti-double-stranded DNA antibody (Anti-dsDNA Ab) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels and white blood cell (WBC) and platelet (PLT) counts, were performed using standard methods. Lupus nephritis (LN) was diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) renal criteria. The SLE disease activity was scored using the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). Among the 110 SLE cases, IL-34 could be detected in 79 cases (71.8%). IL-34 was barely detected in the control group. The serum level of IL-34 was significantly higher in the SLE group. No change was observed in the serum IL-34 concentration in the SLE patients regardless of LN status. Correlations were observed between the serum IL-34 level and the disease activity parameters. The SLE patients with detectable IL-34 levels had higher SLEDAI and IgG concentrations and lower C3 and Hb levels than patients with undetectable IL-34 levels. Therefore, IL-34 could be a potential disease activity marker for SLE.
The role of medial prefrontal cortex in the working memory maintenance of one’s own emotional responses
Authors: Smith Ryan , Lane Richard D. , Alkozei Anna , Bao Jennifer , Smith Courtney , Sanova Anna , Nettles Matthew , Killgore William D. S.
Published: February 2018

The role of medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) in maintaining emotional information within working memory (WM) remains insufficiently investigated – with some studies suggesting this process activates MPFC and others suggesting its activity is suppressed. To reconcile these different results, we asked 26 healthy participants to complete a WM task involving the maintenance of emotional content (EWM), visual content (VWM), or no content (“rest”) after exposure to emotion-provoking images. We also assessed individual differences in emotional awareness (EA). We observed that dorsal MPFC was more active during EWM than VWM; further, relative to the rest condition, both of these WM conditions involved suppression of ventral MPFC. We also observed that the dorsal anterior cingulate subregion of dorsal MPFC was positively associated with EA. We discuss how these results may be able to reconcile the findings of previous EWM studies, and extend understanding of the relationship between MPFC, EA, and WM.
The Po Delta is restarting progradation: geomorphological evolution based on a 47-years Earth Observation dataset
Authors: Ninfo A. , Ciavola P. , Billi P.
Published: February 2018

From the 1950s, the Po delta, one of the largest anthropogenic world deltas, has been subjected to a fast degradation and shoreline retreat due a marked reduction of sediment supply, mainly controlled by human impacts/factors, including subsidence. Through the interpretation of satellite images, coupled with the analysis of the flow discharge, and of the annual frequency of marine storms, we show that recently (>2010) the Po River has resumed delta progradation, especially in its northern portion. This happens after decades of erosion, followed by alternating regrowth and degradation phases, indicating conditions of substantial stability (1970–2000). Today the delta shows aggradation of new mouth-bars at the main distributary mouth, a clear evidence of active constructive processes. The ongoing trend marks a countertendency compared to many deltas worldwide.
Facile one-pot green synthesis of Au–Ag alloy nanoparticles using sucrose and their composition-dependent photocatalytic activity for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Sun Li , Yin Yuechao , Wang Fa , Su Wenxian , Zhang Lixin
Published: February 2018

Homogeneous Au–Ag alloy nanoparticles, controllably synthesized using sucrose in one pot, showed high stability and photocatalytic activity dependent on their composition.
Spectroelectrochemical studies of a ruthenium complex containing the pH sensitive 4,4′-dihydroxy-2,2′-bipyridine ligand
Authors: Peterson Erin J. , Kuhn Ashley E. , Roeder Margaret H. , Piro Nicholas A. , Kassel W. Scott , Dudley Timothy J. , Paul Jared J.
Published: February 2018

The effects of oxidation by one electron on the structural and electronic properties of a ruthenium polypyridyl complex with a pH sensitive ligand is detailed.
Pilot scale study of sequencing batch reactor (SBR) retrofit with integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS): nitrogen removal and design consideration
Authors: Zhao Renzun , Zhao Hong , Dimassimo Rich , Xu Guoren
Published: February 2018

IFAS process was coupled with SBR operation in a pilot-scale reactor to verify the feasibility and to evaluate the performance of IFAS-SBR. Significant nitrification improvement in the IFAS-SBR system was observed, which is attributed to both the introduction of attached-growth biomass on media carriers and the “seeding effect” by biofilm sloughing.
Enriched optimization of molecular properties under constraints: an electrochromic example
Authors: Rinderspacher B. Christopher , Elward Jennifer M.
Published: February 2018

We present a deterministic optimization procedure of molecular properties that ensures diverse coverage of the given chemical compound search space.
Oxygen-deficient photostable Cu2O for enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity
Authors: Singh Mandeep , Jampaiah Deshetti , Kandjani Ahmad E. , Sabri Ylias M. , Della Gaspera Enrico , Reineck Philipp , Judd Martyna , Langley Julien , Cox Nicholas , van Embden Joel , Mayes Edwin L. H. , Gibson Brant C. , Bhargava Suresh K. , Ramanathan Rajesh , Bansal Vipul
Published: February 2018

Large-scale synthesis of O-deficient Cu2O with outstanding visible photoactivity is shown.
Performance evaluation of mercapto functional hybrid silica sol–gel coating and its synergistic effect with f-GNs for corrosion protection of copper surface
Authors: Tian Shu , Liu Zhixiong , Shen Luli , Pu Jibin , Liu Wenqing , Sun Xiaofeng , Li Zhanming
Published: February 2018

An anticorrosion coating on copper consisting of mercapto functional hybrid silica sol–gel and f-GNs nanoplates with a synergistic effect was prepared.
One-pot two-step synthesis of 3-iodo-4-aryloxy coumarins and their Pd/C-catalyzed annulation to coumestans
Authors: Panda Niranjan , Mattan Irshad
Published: February 2018

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of various coumestans from the intramolecular annulation of 3-iodo-4-aryloxy coumarins through C–H activation has been developed.
Highly stretchable, mechanically stable, and weavable reduced graphene oxide yarn with high NO2 sensitivity for wearable gas sensors
Authors: Yun Yong Ju , Kim Do Yeob , Hong Won G. , Ha Dong Han , Jun Yongseok , Lee Hyung-Kun
Published: February 2018

Highly stretchable, mechanically stable and weavable RGO elastic electronic yarns were developed using dip-coating with pre-straining. We demonstrate wearable gas sensors that can be worn on the wrist.
Assembly of a series of zinc coordination polymers based on 5-functionalized isophthalic acids and dipyridyl
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhu Rong-Rong , Zhang Xiao-Feng , Yan Tong , Wang Quan , Feng Jing , Zhou Jie , Du Lin , Zhao Qi-Hua
Published: February 2018

A series of zinc coordination polymers based on 5-functionalized isophthalate and flexible dipyridyl ligands have been prepared. Their thermal and luminescent properties in the solid state were also investigated.
A carbonised sieve-like corn straw cellulose–graphene oxide composite for organophosphorus pesticide removal
Authors: Suo Fengyue , Xie Guixian , Zhang Jie , Li Jingyu , Li Changsheng , Liu Xue , Zhang Yunpeng , Ma Yongqiang , Ji MingShan
Published: February 2018

Synthesizing a reusable adsorbent from waste corn straw is a sustainable way to utilize secondary resources and purify water.
Surface-grafted polyethylene glycol conformation impacts the transport of PEG-functionalized liposomes through a tumour extracellular matrix model
Authors: Labouta Hagar I. , Gomez-Garcia M. Juliana , Sarsons Christopher D. , Nguyen Trinh , Kennard Jacob , Ngo Wayne , Terefe Kaisha , Iragorri Nicolas , Lai Patrick , Rinker Kristina D. , Cramb David T.
Published: February 2018

The effect of surface PEGylation on nanoparticle transport through an extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important determinant for tumor targeting success.
Insertion, protonolysis and photolysis reactivity of a thorium monoalkyl amidinate complex
Authors: Settineri Nicholas S. , Arnold John
Published: February 2018

A tris-amidinate thorium monoalkyl complex facilitates new small molecule reactivity and eliminates SiMe4 under photolytic conditions to generate a mixed amidinate dimer.
Interaction anisotropy and the KPZ to KPZQ transition in particle deposition at the edges of drying drops
Authors: Dias C. S. , Yunker P. J. , Yodh A. G. , Araújo N. A. M. , Telo da Gama M. M.
Published: February 2018

We employ simulation techniques to identify a microscopic mechanism responsible for the observed transition from KPZ to KPZQ.
TiO2-coated luminescent porous silicon micro-particles as a promising system for nanomedicine
Authors: Chistè E. , Ghafarinazari A. , Donini M. , Cremers V. , Dendooven J. , Detavernier C. , Benati D. , Scarpa M. , Dusi S. , Daldosso N.
Published: February 2018

Porous silicon (pSi), a sponge-like material, was coated by ALD with a TiO2layer to stabilize photoluminescence in biological media.In vitroresults open the way to promising applications in nanomedicine.
Biocompatible nanoparticles containing hydrophobic nickel-bis(dithiolene) complexes for NIR-mediated doxorubicin release and photothermal therapy
Authors: Ciancone Mathieu , Mebrouk Kenny , Bellec Nathalie , Le Goff-Gaillard Catherine , Arlot-Bonnemains Yannick , Benvegnu Thierry , Fourmigué Marc , Camerel Franck , Cammas-Marion Sandrine
Published: February 2018

Nickel-bis(dithiolene) containing NPs: controlled release of Dox and photothermal therapy under NIR Irradiation.
Nickel and palladium complexes with fluorinated alkyl substituted α-diimine ligands for living/controlled olefin polymerization
Authors: Mundil Robert , Sokolohorskyj Anatolij , Hošek Jan , Cvačka Josef , Císařová Ivana , Kvíčala Jaroslav , Merna Jan
Published: February 2018

Living/controlled olefin polymerization is displayed by novel nickel and palladium diimine catalysts with fluorinated tails.
Photoredox radical C–H oxygenation of aromatics with aroyloxylutidinium salts
Authors: Miyazawa Kazuki , Ochi Rika , Koike Takashi , Akita Munetaka
Published: February 2018

The peroxide-free aroyloxylation of aromatics withN-aroyloxylutidinium salts by photoredox catalysis has been developed.
The effect of metallic Fe(ii) and nonmetallic S codoping on the photocatalytic performance of graphitic carbon nitride
Authors: Dou Hailong , Zheng Shaohui , Zhang Yongping
Published: February 2018

The photoinduced electrons jump more easily to the conduction band of g-C3N4 for the Fe impurity band locates above the valence band acting a bridge for electron transfer.
Fluorinated polymer surfactants bearing an alternating peptide skeleton prepared by three-component polycondensation
Authors: Koyama Y. , Ihsan A. B. , Taira T. , Imura T.
Published: February 2018

A new species of fluorinated polymer surfactant was developed by three component polycondensation analogous to Ugi four-component condensation.
Electronic properties of atomically thin MoS2 layers grown by physical vapour deposition: band structure and energy level alignment at layer/substrate interfaces
Authors: Bussolotti Fabio , Chai Jainwei , Yang Ming , Kawai Hiroyo , Zhang Zheng , Wang Shijie , Wong Swee Liang , Manzano Carlos , Huang Yuli , Chi Dongzhi , Goh Kuan Eng Johnson
Published: February 2018

The band structure of defective, rotationally disordered 2D TMDC layers is reported.
Synthesis of novel cyclosiloxane monomers containing push–pull moieties and their anionic ring opening polymerization
Authors: Perju Elena , Cuervo-Reyes Eduardo , Shova Sergiu , Opris Dorina M.
Published: February 2018

The synthesis of polysiloxanes modified with a nitroaniline or with a Disperse Red 1 push–pull group and their dielectric properties are reported.
Bioinspired microstructures of chitosan hydrogel provide enhanced wear protection
Authors: Faivre Jimmy , Sudre Guillaume , Montembault Alexandra , Benayoun Stéphane , Banquy Xavier , Delair Thierry , David Laurent
Published: February 2018

Hydrogel bilayer structure leads to different tribological behaviors in terms of friction and wear resistance.
Association of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene promoter polymorphisms with aggressive and chronic periodontitis in the eastern Indian population
Authors: Majumder Poulami , Thou Keheibamding , Bhattacharya Mandar , Nair Vineet , Ghosh Sujay , Dey Subrata Kumar
Published: February 2018

Background: Periodontitis is a very common inflammatory oral disease. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a cytokine that has been involved with the gingival tissue destruction and remodeling occurrence. We investigated the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TNF-α gene promoter region with the susceptibility of aggressive and chronic periodontitis in the eastern Indian population.

Methods: A total of 397 DNA samples from venous blood were isolated. 40 individuals were aggressive periodontitis patients, 157 were identified chronic periodontitis patients, and the remaining 200 were healthy individuals. Five SNPs of TNF-α at promoter region (rs361525, rs1800629, rs1799724, rs1800630, and rs1799964) were genotyped by PCR-sequencing in periodontitis patients and control subjects.

Results: rs1800629 (-308G/A) polymorphism was more frequent in both aggressive and chronic periodontitis patients compared with the control population, though the allele frequency was different only in aggressive periodontitis patients. On the other hand, both the genotypic and allelic variation of rs361525 (-238G/A) polymorphism were found significantly less frequently in aggressive and chronic periodontitis than in controls. The other polymorphisms like rs1799724 (-857C/T) and rs1799964 (-1031T/C) were significantly different between chronic periodontitis patients and control subjects.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the rs1800629 (-308G/A) polymorphism of TNF-α gene is associated with both aggressive and chronic periodontitis while rs1799724 (-857C/T) and rs1799964 (-1031T/C) polymorphisms of TNF-α gene is associated only with the increased susceptibility to chronic periodontitis.
Statistics on the ratio of two products of arbitrary number of Nakagami‐m variables and its application in wireless communications
Authors: Xie Ning , Wang Hui
Published: February 2018

This study derives in the closed‐form the probability density function and characteristic function of the ratio of two products of arbitrary number of Nakagami‐m random variables. Then, the resulting mathematical framework is applied to analyse and gain insights into the bit error rate performance of the dual‐hop channel state information‐assisted amplify‐and‐forward relaying system in the presence of co‐channel interference. All analytical results are corroborated by Monte–Carlo simulation results and they are shown to be efficient tools to evaluate system performance.
Transient overvoltage response performance of transformer windings with short‐circuit fault
Authors: Yang Qing , Chen Yong , Han Rui , Su Peiyu
Published: February 2018

The fault diagnosis of transformer windings is a basis for condition maintenance. Conventional online or offline diagnosis methods require additional pulse or impulse signal. If the overvoltage signal can be regarded as the broadband excitation source for the fault diagnosis of transformer windings, the interference caused by signal injection is likely eliminated without additional pulse or impulse signals. In this study, the transient overvoltage response performance of transformer windings with short‐circuit fault is presented, which could provide a new method for the diagnosis on transformer fault diagnosis. A 10 kVA, 2400 V/220 V, 50 Hz, 1‐phase tapped transformer was designed, and a test platform for the fault diagnosis of transformer windings is established. The excitation signals for the fault diagnosis of the transformer windings included different lightning waves and damped oscillation waves, as indicated by the differences among actual overvoltage waveforms. The voltage and current of windings under normal and fault conditions are determined, and the frequency responses of admittance and voltage transfer function are calculated. The criterion for the fault diagnosis of transformer windings is obtained by comparing and analysing statistical indicators that reflected the differences in the frequency response of transfer function under normal and fault.
Fast evaluation of the Cooray–Rubinstein formula in time domain via piecewise recursive convolution technique
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Mengmeng , Yang Jiawei , Wang Litong , Wang Chaoshuo
Published: February 2018

The Cooray–Rubinstein formula has been widely used for evaluating the horizontal component of the electric field generated by a lightning return stroke over a lossy ground. An accurate and efficient time domain method is presented in this study, by means of piecewise recursive convolution. The recursive convolution is achieved by expressing the kernel function of the ground surface impedance by a piecewise exponential function, in which the integral form of the modified Bessel function of the first kind is evaluated using the trapezoidal numerical integration. Since the time‐domain analytical expression of the ground surface impedance kernel function has been adopted, the computational error can be directly controlled within a reasonable tolerance. The validity and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated by the extensive comparisons with the method in other literature.
Steady state and transient simulation for electricity‐gas integrated energy systems by using convex optimisation
Authors: Chen Sheng , Wei Zhinong , Sun Guoqiang , Wang Dan , Zang Haixiang
Published: February 2018

The increasing interdependence between electric power and natural‐gas systems requires integrated simulation tools applicable to the coupled system. Therefore, this study proposes steady‐state and transient simulation tools for electricity‐gas integrated energy systems (IESs) by using convex optimisation. Steady‐state IES simulation is designed for long‐term planning studies while transient IES simulation, which includes line‐pack storage, is designed for real‐time operational research. The proposed convex steady‐state gas flow model introduces binary variables to represent gas flow directions, and employs the second‐order cone (SOC) to relax non‐convex pipeline gas flow equations. As a result, steady‐state gas flow analysis is formulated as a mixed integer SOC programming problem. The proposed transient gas flow model employs the implicit finite difference method to transform partial differential equations into algebraic difference equations. Moreover, the short‐term gas flow directions are specified and SOC relaxations are used. Simulation results on an integrated IEEE 24‐node system and Belgian 20‐node gas system verify the effectiveness of the proposed SOC models. The impacts of wind power forecast errors on multi‐period gas network operations are also investigated.
Design of multiway power dividers including all connecting lines
Authors: Yu Tiku , Tsai Jeng‐Han
Published: February 2018

This study proposes a method of designing a multiway power divider including all connecting lines. The multiway power divider is based on several interconnected two‐way power dividers. The connecting lines comprise the interconnecting sections, used for interconnecting the two‐way power dividers, and the input/output extension lines, used for connecting the internal circuit to the on‐board feeding ports. In the proposed method, the length of each interconnecting section can be flexibly partitioned to best fit the layout requirement. Every transmission line used for any purpose of connection in the layout is included as part of design and contributes to improvement of matching bandwidths. Therefore, a multiway power divider adopting the design method will result in better bandwidth performance for the same circuit size. The background principle of the proposed method and several simulated design scenarios are provided. A prototype of a four‐way power divider is designed and fabricated. The measurement results, decently matching the simulations, validate the proposed idea. This study for the first time discusses on design and optimisation of an entire multiway power divider including all portions of connecting lines. The proposed method can make a multiway power divider achieving an improved bandwidth and more efficient layout.
Theoretical simulation of the thermoelectrically cooled HgCdTe LWIR detector for fast response operating under unbiased conditions
Authors: Martyniuk Piotr , Madejczyk Paweł , Kopytko Małgorzata , Henig Aleksandra Magdalena , Grodecki Kacper , Gawron Waldemar , Rutkowski Jarosław
Published: February 2018

This study reports on photoelectrical performance of the long‐wave infrared HgCdTe high operating temperature (200–230 K) detector for the fast response time operating under unbiased conditions. The detailed analysis of the response time as a function of device architecture was conducted pointing out optimal working conditions and structure. The response time of the long‐wave (xCd  = 0.19) HgCdTe detector for temperatures reached by thermoelectrical cooling (200–230 K) was estimated at the level of τs  < 0.6 ns for unbiased condition while responsivity Ri ∼ 1.8 A/W and detectivity was assessed at the level of D*  ∼  1.6 × 1010 cm Hz1/2 /W. It was shown that extra series resistance Rseries   < 10 Ω (resistance–capacitance time constant) plays a decisive role in order to reach τs < 1 ns meaning that device processing is much more important rather than fundamental limitations imposed by physics.
The impact of Lyman-α radiative transfer on large-scale clustering in the Illustris simulation
Authors: Behrens C. , Byrohl C. , Saito S. , Niemeyer J. C.
Published: February 2018

Context. Lyman-α emitters (LAEs) are a promising probe of the large-scale structure at high redshift, z ≳ 2. In particular, the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment aims at observing LAEs at 1.9 < z < 3.5 to measure the baryon acoustic oscillation (BAO) scale and the redshift-space distortion (RSD). However, it has been pointed out that the complicated radiative transfer (RT) of the resonant Lyman-α emission line generates an anisotropic selection bias in the LAE clustering on large scales, s ≳ 10 Mpc. This effect could potentially induce a systematic error in the BAO and RSD measurements. Also, there exists a recent claim to have observational evidence of the effect in the Lyman-α intensity map, albeit statistically insignificant.

Aims. We aim at quantifying the impact of the Lyman-α RT on the large-scale galaxy clustering in detail. For this purpose, we study the correlations between the large-scale environment and the ratio of an apparent Lyman-α luminosity to an intrinsic one, which we call the “observed fraction”, at 2 < z < 6.

Methods. We apply our Lyman-α RT code by post-processing the full Illustris simulations. We simply assume that the intrinsic luminosity of the Lyman-α emission is proportional to the star formation rate of galaxies in Illustris, yielding a sufficiently large sample of LAEs to measure the anisotropic selection bias.

Results. We find little correlation between large-scale environment and the observed fraction induced by the RT, and hence a smaller anisotropic selection bias than has previously been claimed. We argue that the anisotropy was overestimated in previous work due to insufficient spatial resolution; it is important to keep the resolution such that it resolves the high-density region down to the scale of the interstellar medium, that is, ~1 physical kpc. We also find that the correlation can be further enhanced by assumptions in modeling intrinsic Lyman-α emission.
The effect of epiphytic macroinvertebrates on microbial communities in different types of macrophyte-dominated shallow lakes
Authors: Mieczan Tomasz , Tarkowska-Kukuryk Monika , Ȃrva Diana , Berzni-Nagy Làszló , Novak Zoltan , Vajda Csilla
Published: February 2018

Complex interactions between epiphytic fauna and microbial food webs in periphyton are vital to the ecosystem ecology of shallow lakes. However, little is known about how different types of macrophyte dominated lakes may influence microbial and metazoan communities. The goal of the present study was to examine the impact of metazoan on microbial food web in three different types of lakes (Stratiotes-dominated,Ceratophyllum-dominated andPotamogeton-dominated). The results of this study suggest a strong correlations between chironomid larvae, small Metazoa and microbial communities in the periphyton of macrophyte-dominated lakes. Weak relations between food web components were found in thePotamogeton-dominated andCeratophyllum-dominated lakes, where environmental variables explained the bulk of the total variance in periphyton abundance, whereas strong predator-prey relations were noted in theStratiotes-dominated lake, where environmental variables had a minor role in the total variance in periphyton abundance. Our study contributes to knowledge of the functioning of eutrophic lakes in the current era of increasing eutrophication caused by climate change and human activity.
La biogenèse des ARN courts non codants chez les animaux
Authors: Fressigné Lucile , Simard Martin J.
Published: February 2018

Ces dernières années, la découverte des ARN courts non codants a ouvert un tout nouveau champ de la biologie moléculaire. En effet, ces petites séquences, ne codant pour aucune protéine, agissent comme de puissants régulateurs de l’expression des gènes. Il existe différents types d’ARN courts non codants, les mieux caractérisés étant les microARN, les piARN (Piwi-interacting ARN) et les siARN (small interfering ARN). Du fait de leur importante fonction d’ajustement dans la régulation des gènes et dans l’expression du génome, une mauvaise régulation du niveau d’expression de ces courts ARN peut entraîner l’apparition de nombreuses pathologies. Cette revue se concentre sur la biogénèse de ces ARN courts non codants chez les animaux.
An Efficient Synthesis of Substituted Pyrazoles from One-Pot Reaction of Ketones, Aldehydes, and Hydrazine Monohydrochloride
Authors: Lellek Vit , Chen Cheng-yi , Yang Wanggui , Liu Jie , Ji Xuebao , Faessler Roger
Published: February 2018

An efficient, one-pot and metal-free process for the preparation of 3,5-disubstituted and 3,4,5-trisubstituted pyrazoles on multi-gram scale was developed. One-pot condensation of ketones, aldehydes and hydrazine monohydrochloride readily formed pyrazoline intermediates under mild conditions. Oxidation of pyrazolines, in situ, employing bromine afforded a wide variety of pyrazoles. The methodology offers a fast, and often chromatography-free protocol for the synthesis of 3,4,5-substituted pyrazoles in good to excellent yields. Alternatively, a more benign oxidation protocol affords 3,5-disubstituted or 3,4,5-trisubstituted pyrazoles by simply heating pyrazolines in DMSO under oxygen.
Assessment of Function after Free Tissue Transfer to the Lower Extremity for Chronic Wounds Using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale
Authors: Falola Reuben , Lakhiani Chrisovalantis , Green Jocelyn , Patil Siya , Jackson Brandon , Bratescu Rachel , Anghel Ersilia , Steinberg John , Kim Paul , Attinger Christopher , Evans Karen
Published: February 2018

Background Free tissue transfer is one option for preservation of form and function in the native limb, in the setting of soft tissue paucity. However, the data on patient functionality after microvascular intervention is inconsistently reported. The Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS) measures patient-reported difficulty in carrying out 20 physical activities, on a Likert scale, the sum of which correlates with descriptive functional stages of 1–5. We assess limb functionality in this cohort of microvascular patients using the LEFS survey.

Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted at a single academic medical center of 101 consecutive free flaps, from 2011 to 2016. Of the flaps that met inclusion criteria, 39 had completed LEFS surveys. Mean LEFS scores were calculated, and the effects of risk factors such as diabetes, age, and smoking status were analyzed.

Results The mean LEFS score after free tissue transfer was 50.3 (SD ± 21.1), with a mean follow up survey time of 3.0 years (SD ± 1.3). The score correlated with Stage 4 function, or "independent community ambulation,” and age was the only demographic factor associated with decreased functionality in this group. This is compared with mean LEFS score of 43.1 (SD ± 18.4) in cohort of 55 below knee amputations (BKAs), and 38.3 (SD ± 14.9) in 28 above knee amputations (AKAs), both correlating with Stage 3 function: “limited community ambulation.”

Conclusions Functional outcomes scores such as the LEFS demonstrate that patients can obtain an adequate level of functionality for independent community activity after free tissue transfer, although functional improvement diminishes with age.
Expanded Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Resection of Tuberculum Sella Meningioma Invading the Optic Canal
Authors: Klironomos Georgios , Bruni Margherita , Dehdashti Amir
Published: February 2018

A 61-year-old male patient presented with recurrent malignant meningioma involving the left optic canal and decreased vision from the left eye. The patient had undergone orbital exenteration on the right 2 years ago. The decision to treat the patient was made based on the significant vision deterioration and rapid tumor growth. Endoscopic transsphenoidal approach considered the most suitable route due to the inferomedial invasion of the optic canal. Gross total removal was achieved and the patient's vision improved postoperatively. The patient developed hydrocephalus 4 weeks postoperatively and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement corrected both hydrocephalus and CSF leak.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/2cOF0pf5gAk.
Surgery of Tuberculum Sellae Meningioma: A Technical Purview on Pterional Approach
Authors: Nanda Anil , Patra Devi , Savardekar Amey , Mohammed Nasser , Narayan Vinayak , Bir Shyamal
Published: February 2018

Objective Amidst the raging debate between transnasal and transcranial approaches, the critical factor that dictates success lies in the meticulous dissection of the tumor from the optic apparatus, anterior communicating artery complex, and the pituitary stalk. In this surgical video, we describe the resection of a tuberculum sellae meningioma through the pterional approach highlighting dissection through the appropriate arachnoidal plane.

Case Description The patient is a 75-year-old female who presented with optic nerve compression with bitemporal hemianopia and endocrine function abnormalities. A transcranial approach was done to effectively decompress the optic nerve. The video includes a detailed discussion on the surgical techniques including working between the different surgical corridors, working in the arachnoid plane to dissect the neurovascular structures away from the tumor, identification, and preservation of pituitary stalk. Postoperatively, the patient's visual field deficit improved with a remaining isolated right temporal field defect at 2 months follow-up. Her endocrine function improved after the surgery.

Conclusion In the era of endoscopic surgery, transcranial approaches for suprasellar tumors like tuberculum sellae meningiomas still have a distinct surgical role. Our discussion extends to reiterate the strengths and weaknesses of the transcranial approach to this region as compared with the endoscopic approach. We believe decompression of optic nerves, separation of Acom complex from the tumor, and preservation of pituitary stalk are better achieved through a transcranial approach.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/kw5eP3oUd6Q.
Gross Total Resection of Chordoid Glioma of the Third Ventricle via Anterior Interhemispheric Transcallosal Transforaminal Approach at Two Stages
Authors: Dogan Ihsan , Ucer Melih , Başkaya Mustafa
Published: February 2018

Suprasellar tumors in particular tumors located in the retrochiasmatic area and anterior third ventricle are challenging cases in terms of optimal surgical exposure. Several approaches have been described including transsylvian, translamina terminalis, endoscopic endonasal, and anterior interhemispheric. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages. In this video, we present a case of retrochiasmatic anterior third ventricular tumor that was operated via anterior interhemispheric transcallosal transforaminal approach. The patient is a 42-year-old female who presented with sudden onset of severe headache and depressed level of consciousness. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the head showed a hemorrhage in the third ventricle and suprasellar cisterns. CT angiogram and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed diagnosis of hemorrhagic mass lesion in the third ventricle. Upon further questioning of her family, we found out that she was having excessive urination and short-term memory problems for last 2 weeks. First, ventriculostomy was placed for obstructive hydrocephalus. She then underwent surgical resection via anterior interhemispheric transcallosal transforaminal approach. Foramen of Monro was enlarged by performing transchoroidal dissection. Using transforaminal route, tumor was resected. Due to the narrow surgical corridor and high vascularity of the tumor, decision was made to come back at a second stage. Using same surgical approach, in the second stage, gross total resection was performed. Postoperative MRI confirmed gross total resection. Histopathology was chordoid glioma of the third ventricle. She made excellent recovery with persistent diabetes insipidus. Currently, she is completing radiation therapy. In this video, we demonstrate techniques and pitfalls of anterior interhemispheric transcallosal approach to anterior third ventricular tumor.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/CI5c6Zup8sY.