bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hybrid surface-to-surface transition-based UWB-BPF with multiple in-band interference suppression
Authors: Ghazali Abu Nasar , Hussain Jabir , Pal Srikanta
Published: March 2019

A compact ultra-wideband (UWB) bandpass filter (BPF) based on surface-to-surface transition technology with features of extended stopband and integrated interference mitigation characteristics is proposed. The basic structure consists of a modified multiple-mode resonator (MMR)-based co-planar waveguide in the ground surface and coupled in broadside manner with the microstrip lines on the top surface. Later, two open-circuited stubs are embedded in the feeding lines and two complementary split ring resonators are etched in the MMR to implement multiple in-band transmission zeros so as to circumvent interference. A prototype is fabricated and measured to validate the results obtained in simulation. The proposed UWB-BPF is compact in size with overall dimensions of 17.82 by 11.08 mm2.
Prices in Toledo (Spain): Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries
Authors: González Agudo David
Published: March 2019

Differences in material conditions are a determinant that explains the little divergence between northwestern and southern Europe. This article approaches the evolution of prices in early modern Toledo (Spain). The price index includes new items such as housing and employs different baskets over time, reflecting changes in consumption patterns. During the city’s golden age, prices grew faster than in London, Paris, or Amsterdam. Wine, urban rent, and food prices experienced a great increase, coinciding with demographic growth and the arrival of the American precious metals. Prices slowed in the first half of the seventeenth century, throughout Castile’s demographic and economic decay.
Differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells into Leydig-like cells with molecular compounds
Authors: Chen Xianwu , Li Chao , Chen Yong , Xi Haitao , Zhao Shenzhi , Ma Leikai , Xu Zhangye , Han Zhao , Zhao Junzhao , Ge Renshan , Guo Xiaoling
Published: March 2019

Leydig cells (LCs) play crucial roles in producing testosterone, which is critical in the regulation of male reproduction and development. Low levels of testosterone will lead to male hypogonadism. LC transplantation is a promising alternative therapy for male hypogonadism. However, the source of LCs limits this strategy for clinical applications. Thus far, others have reported that LCs can be derived from stem cells by gene transfection, but the safe and effective induction method has not yet been reported. Here, we report that Leydig-like cells can be derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) using a novel differentiation protocol based on molecular compounds. The iPSCs-derived Leydig-like cells (iPSC-LCs) acquired testosterone synthesis capabilities, had the similar gene expression profiles with LCs, and positively expressed Leydig cell lineage-specific protein markers LHCGR, STAR, SCARB1, SF-1, CYP11A1, HSD3B1, and HSD17B3 as well as negatively expressed iPSC-specific markers NANOG, OCT4, and SOX2. When iPSC-LCs labeled with lipophilic red dye (PKH26) were transplanted into rat testes that were selectively eliminated endogenous LCs using EDS (75 mg/kg), the transplanted iPSC-LCs could survive and function in the interstitium of testes, and accelerate the recovery of serum testosterone levels and testis weights. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that the iPSCs were able to be differentiated into Leydig-like cells by few defined molecular compounds, which may lay the safer groundwork for further clinical application of iPSC-LCs for hypogonadism.
Ether-compatible sulfurized polyacrylonitrile cathode with excellent performance enabled by fast kinetics via selenium doping
Authors: Chen Xin , Peng Linfeng , Wang Lihui , Yang Jiaqiang , Hao Zhangxiang , Xiang Jingwei , Yuan Kai , Huang Yunhui , Shan Bin , Yuan Lixia , Xie Jia
Published: March 2019

Sulfurized polyacrylonitrile is suggested to contain Sn (n ≤ 4) and shows good electrochemical performance in carbonate electrolytes for lithium sulfur batteries. However inferior results in ether electrolytes suggest that high solubility of Li2Sn (n ≤ 4) trumps the limited redox conversion, leading to dissolution and shuttling. Here, we introduce a small amount of selenium in sulfurized polyacrylonitrile to accelerate the redox conversion, delivering excellent performance in both carbonate and ether electrolytes, including high reversible capacity (1300 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), 84% active material utilization and high rate (capacity up to 900 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1). These cathodes can undergo 800 cycles with nearly 100% Coulombic efficiency and ultralow 0.029% capacity decay per cycle. Polysulfide dissolution is successfully suppressed by enhanced reaction kinetics. This work demonstrates an ether compatible sulfur cathode involving intermediate Li2Sn (n ≤ 4), attractive rate and cycling performance, and a promising solution towards applicable lithium-sulfur batteries.
Molecular constraints on CDR3 for thymic selection of MHC-restricted TCRs from a random pre-selection repertoire
Authors: Lu Jinghua , Van Laethem François , Bhattacharya Abhisek , Craveiro Marco , Saba Ingrid , Chu Jonathan , Love Nicholas C. , Tikhonova Anastasia , Radaev Sergei , Sun Xiaoping , Ko Annette , Arnon Tomer , Shifrut Eric , Friedman Nir , Weng Nan-Ping , Singer Alfred , Sun Peter D.
Published: March 2019

The αβ T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire on mature T cells is selected in the thymus, but the basis for thymic selection of MHC-restricted TCRs from a randomly generated pre-selection repertoire is not known. Here we perform comparative repertoire sequence analyses of pre-selection and post-selection TCR from multiple MHC-sufficient and MHC-deficient mouse strains, and find that MHC-restricted and MHC-independent TCRs are primarily distinguished by features in their non-germline CDR3 regions, with many pre-selection CDR3 sequences not compatible with MHC-binding. Thymic selection of MHC-independent TCR is largely unconstrained, but the selection of MHC-specific TCR is restricted by both CDR3 length and specific amino acid usage. MHC-restriction disfavors TCR with CDR3 longer than 13 amino acids, limits positively charged and hydrophobic amino acids in CDR3β, and clonally deletes TCRs with cysteines in their CDR3 peptide-binding regions. Together, these MHC-imposed structural constraints form the basis to shape VDJ recombination sequences into MHC-restricted repertoires.
Pocket similarity identifies selective estrogen receptor modulators as microtubule modulators at the taxane site
Authors: Lo Yu-Chen , Cormier Olga , Liu Tianyun , Nettles Kendall W. , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Stearns Tim , Altman Russ B.
Published: March 2019

Taxanes are a family of natural products with a broad spectrum of anticancer activity. This activity is mediated by interaction with the taxane site of beta-tubulin, leading to microtubule stabilization and cell death. Although widely used in the treatment of breast cancer and other malignancies, existing taxane-based therapies including paclitaxel and the second-generation docetaxel are currently limited by severe adverse effects and dose-limiting toxicity. To discover taxane site modulators, we employ a computational binding site similarity screen of > 14,000 drug-like pockets from PDB, revealing an unexpected similarity between the estrogen receptor and the beta-tubulin taxane binding pocket. Evaluation of nine selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) via cellular and biochemical assays confirms taxane site interaction, microtubule stabilization, and cell proliferation inhibition. Our study demonstrates that SERMs can modulate microtubule assembly and raises the possibility of an estrogen receptor-independent mechanism for inhibiting cell proliferation.
Adenosine triphosphate is co-secreted with glucagon-like peptide-1 to modulate intestinal enterocytes and afferent neurons
Authors: Lu Van B. , Rievaj Juraj , O’Flaherty Elisabeth A. , Smith Christopher A. , Pais Ramona , Pattison Luke A. , Tolhurst Gwen , Leiter Andrew B. , Bulmer David C. , Gribble Fiona M. , Reimann Frank
Published: March 2019

Enteroendocrine cells are specialised sensory cells located in the intestinal epithelium and generate signals in response to food ingestion. Whilst traditionally considered hormone-producing cells, there is evidence that they also initiate activity in the afferent vagus nerve and thereby signal directly to the brainstem. We investigate whether enteroendocrine L-cells, well known for their production of the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), also release other neuro-transmitters/modulators. We demonstrate regulated ATP release by ATP measurements in cell supernatants and by using sniffer patches that generate electrical currents upon ATP exposure. Employing purinergic receptor antagonists, we demonstrate that evoked ATP release from L-cells triggers electrical responses in neighbouring enterocytes through P2Y2 and nodose ganglion neurones in co-cultures through P2X2/3-receptors. We conclude that L-cells co-secrete ATP together with GLP-1 and PYY, and that ATP acts as an additional signal triggering vagal activation and potentially synergising with the actions of locally elevated peptide hormone concentrations.
Past and future spread of the arbovirus vectors Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus
Authors: Kraemer Moritz U. G. , Reiner Robert C. , Brady Oliver J. , Messina Jane P. , Gilbert Marius , Pigott David M. , Yi Dingdong , Johnson Kimberly , Earl Lucas , Marczak Laurie B. , Shirude Shreya , Davis Weaver Nicole , Bisanzio Donal , Perkins T. Alex , Lai Shengjie , Lu Xin , Jones Peter , Coelho Giovanini E. , Carvalho Roberta G. , Van Bortel Wim , Marsboom Cedric , Hendrickx Guy , Schaffner Francis , Moore Chester G. , Nax Heinrich H. , Bengtsson Linus , Wetter Erik , Tatem Andrew J. , Brownstein John S. , Smith David L. , Lambrechts Louis , Cauchemez Simon , Linard Catherine , Faria Nuno R. , Pybus Oliver G. , Scott Thomas W. , Liu Qiyong , Yu Hongjie , Wint G. R. William , Hay Simon I. , Golding Nick
Published: March 2019

The global population at risk from mosquito-borne diseases—including dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya and Zika—is expanding in concert with changes in the distribution of two key vectors:Aedes aegyptiandAedes albopictus. The distribution of these species is largely driven by both human movement and the presence of suitable climate. Using statistical mapping techniques, we show that human movement patterns explain the spread of both species in Europe and the United States following their introduction. We find that the spread ofAe. aegyptiis characterized by long distance importations, whileAe. albopictushas expanded more along the fringes of its distribution. We describe these processes and predict the future distributions of both species in response to accelerating urbanization, connectivity and climate change. Global surveillance and control efforts that aim to mitigate the spread of chikungunya, dengue, yellow fever and Zika viruses must consider the so far unabated spread of these mosquitos. Our maps and predictions offer an opportunity to strategically target surveillance and control programmes and thereby augment efforts to reduce arbovirus burden in human populations globally.
Foundress numbers and the timing of selective events during interactions between figs and fig wasps
Authors: Sun Bao-Fa , Wang Rui-Wu
Published: March 2019

In intimate mutualisms between hosts and symbionts, selection can act repeatedly over the development times of the interacting individuals. Although much is now known about the overall ecological conditions that favor the evolution of mutualism, a current challenge is to understand how natural selection acts on the number and kinds of partners to shape the evolution and stability of these interactions. Using the obligate fig-fig wasp mutualism, our experiments showed that the proportion of figs developed to maturity increased quickly to 1.0 as the number of foundresses increased, regardless of whether the foundresses carried pollen. Selection against pollen-free wasps did not occur at this early stage in fig development. Within figs that developed, the proportion of galls producing adult wasps remained high as the number of pollen-carrying foundresses increases. In contrast, the proportion of galls producing adult wasps decreased as the number of pollen-free foundresses increased. Viable seed production increased as the number or proportion of pollen-carrying foundresses increased, but the average number of wasp offspring per pollen-carrying foundress was highest when she was the sole foundress. These results show that figs and their pollinator wasps differ in how fitness effects are distributed throughout the development of the interaction and depend on the number and proportion of pollen-carrying foundresses contributing to the interaction. These results suggest that temporal fluctuations in the local number and proportion of pollen-carrying wasps available to enter figs are likely to have strong but different effects on the figs and the wasps.
Weak localization and small anomalous Hall conductivity in ferromagnetic Weyl semimetal Co2TiGe
Authors: Dulal Rajendra P. , Dahal Bishnu R. , Forbes Andrew , Bhattarai Niraj , Pegg Ian L. , Philip John
Published: March 2019

Several cobalt-based Heusler alloys have been predicted to exhibit Weyl Semimetal behavior due to time reversal symmetry breaking. Co2TiGe is one of the predicted ferromagnetic Weyl semimetals. In this work, we report weak localization and small anomalous Hall conductivity in half-metallic Co2TiGe thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy. The longitudinal resistivity shows semimetallic behavior. Elaborate analysis of longitudinal magnetoconductance shows the presence of a weak localization quantum correction present even up to room temperature and reduction in dephasing length at lower temperature. Negative longitudinal magnetoresistance is observed from 5 to 300 K, but at 300 K magnetoresistance becomes positive above 0.5 T magnetic field. The anomalous Hall effect has been investigated in these thin films. The measured anomalous Hall conductivity decreases with increasing temperature, and a small anomalous Hall conductivity has been measured at various temperatures which may be arising due to both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms.
A crystal plasticity FEM study of through-thickness deformation and texture in a {112} <111> aluminium single crystal during accumulative roll-bonding
Authors: Wang Hui , Lu Cheng , Tieu Kiet , Deng Guanyu , Wei Peitang , Liu Yu
Published: March 2019

In this study, a crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM) model was used to study the deformation behaviour in an aluminium single crystal (1 1 2)[1 1 -1] processed by accumulative roll-bonding (ARB) up to 9 cycles. The simulation followed the real ARB process based on the developed finite element model. The predicted through-thickness texture matches well with the experimental observations. The deformation behaviours, in terms of crystal rotation, shear strain and slip system activation, in the first and second cycles (conventional rolling) were unidirectional, but the deformation was altered after ARB was applied from the third cycle onwards. Such alteration was found to be caused by the thickness position change and deformation discontinuity at interfaces, which were investigated in detail. The role that interfaces play became dominant over thickness position change as increasing ARB cycles.
Effects of aging on corneal parameters measured with Pentacam in healthy subjects
Authors: Vitályos Géza , Kolozsvári Bence Lajos , Németh Gábor , Losonczy Gergely , Hassan Ziad , Pásztor Dorottya , Fodor Mariann
Published: March 2019

Our purpose was to prospectively analyze the age-related changes of corneal Scheimpflug parameters in healthy subjects. Thirty-five eyes of 35 volunteers (age 14–67 years) were investigated with an average interval of 3.6 years. Changes of corneal parameters (flattest keratometric reading at anterior (K1F) and posterior surface (K1B), steepest keratometric reading at anterior (K2F) and posterior surface, anterior astigmatism, posterior astigmatism (AstigB), flat axis of anterior and posterior astigmatism (AxisB), thinnest pachymetric value (PachyMin), corneal volume (CV10-mm)) were analyzed. K1F and K2F decreased significantly during observation and showed stronger decrease in younger than in older individuals. Higher values proved to be more stable. K1B decreased significantly and the degree of decrease was dependent on its baseline value and age: in young subjects low values increased, high values decreased. AstigB decreased significantly and showed a baseline-dependent significant increase from lower and a significant decrease from higher initial values. Over time, the mean AxisB shifted significantly. PachyMin and CV decreased significantly with age, especially from higher baseline values in younger subjects. The results of this longitudinal study suggest that both corneal surfaces change significantly with age. We demonstrate for the first time that age and baseline values influence age-related changes of corneal parameters.
MRI-based Radiomics nomogram to detect primary rectal cancer with synchronous liver metastases
Authors: Shu Zhenyu , Fang Songhua , Ding Zhongxiang , Mao Dewang , Cai Rui , Chen Yuanjun , Pang Peipei , Gong Xiangyang
Published: March 2019

Synchronous liver metastasis (SLM) remains a major challenge for rectal cancer. Early detection of SLM is a key factor to improve the survival rate of rectal cancer. In this radiomics study, we predicted the SLM based on the radiomics of primary rectal cancer. A total of 328 radiomics features were extracted from the T2WI images of 194 patients. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to reduce the feature dimension and to construct the radiomics signature. after LASSO, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to sort the features of the surplus characteristics, and selected the features of the total contribution of 85%. Then the prediction model was built by linear regression, and the decision curve analysis was used to judge the net benefit of LASSO and PCA. In addition, we used two independent cohorts for training (n = 135) and validation (n = 159). We found that the model based on LASSO dimensionality construction had the maximum net benefit (in the training set (AUC [95% confidence interval], 0.857 [0.787–0.912]) and in the validation set (0.834 [0.714–0.918]). The radiomics nomogram combined with clinical risk factors and LASSO features showed a good predictive performance in the training set (0.921 [0.862–0.961]) and validation set (0.912 [0.809–0.97]). Our study indicated that radiomics based on primary rectal cancer could provide a non-invasive way to predict the risk of SLM in clinical practice.
Dysfunctional high-density lipoprotein activates toll-like receptors via serum amyloid A in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Schuchardt Mirjam , Prüfer Nicole , Tu Yuexing , Herrmann Jaqueline , Hu Xiu-Ping , Chebli Sarah , Dahlke Katja , Zidek Walter , van der Giet Markus , Tölle Markus
Published: March 2019

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is an uremic toxin and acute phase protein. It accumulates under inflammatory conditions associated with high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with sepsis or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). SAA is an apolipoprotein of the high-density lipoprotein (HDL). SAA accumulation turns HDL from an anti-inflammatory to a pro-inflammatory particle. SAA activates monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in vascular smooth muscle cells. However, the SAA receptor-mediated signaling pathway in vascular cells is poorly understood. Therefore, the SAA-mediated signaling pathway for MCP-1 production was investigated in this study. The SAA-induced MCP-1 production is dependent on the activation of TLR2 and TLR4 as determined by studies with specific receptor antagonists and agonists or siRNA approach. Experiments were confirmed in tissues from TLR2 knockout, TLR4 deficient and TLR2 knock-out/TLR4 deficient mice. The intracellular signaling pathway is IκBα and subsequently NFκB dependent. The MCP-1 production induced by SAA-enriched HDL and HDL isolated from septic patients with high SAA content is also TLR2 and TLR4 dependent. Taken together, the TLR2 and TLR4 receptors are functional SAA receptors mediating MCP-1 release. Furthermore, the TLR2 and TLR4 are receptors for dysfunctional HDL. These results give a further inside in SAA as uremic toxin involved in uremia-related pro-inflammatory response in the vascular wall.
Identification of novel population clusters with different susceptibilities to type 2 diabetes and their impact on the prediction of diabetes
Authors: Cho Seong Beom , Kim Sang Cheol , Chung Myung Guen
Published: March 2019

Type 2 diabetes is one of the subtypes of diabetes. However, previous studies have revealed its heterogeneous features. Here, we hypothesized that there would be heterogeneity in its development, resulting in higher susceptibility in some populations. We performed risk-factor based clustering (RFC), which is a hierarchical clustering of the population with profiles of five known risk factors for type 2 diabetes (age, gender, body mass index, hypertension, and family history of diabetes). The RFC identified six population clusters with significantly different prevalence rates of type 2 diabetes in the discovery data (N = 10,023), ranging from 0.09 to 0.44 (Chi-square test, P < 0.001). The machine learning method identified six clusters in the validation data (N = 215,083), which also showed the heterogeneity of prevalence between the clusters (P < 0.001). In addition to the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, the clusters showed different clinical features including biochemical profiles and prediction performance with the risk factors. SOur results seem to implicate a heterogeneous mechanism in the development of type 2 diabetes. These results will provide new insights for the development of more precise management strategy for type 2 diabetes.
The effects of backpack carriage on gait kinematics and kinetics of schoolchildren
Authors: Ahmad Habibah N. , Barbosa Tiago M.
Published: March 2019

There has been a growing concern among clinical and educational practitioners, as well as, policy makers on the use of backpacks by schoolchildren. On a daily basis, pupils spend a significant amount of time carrying stuffed and heavy backpacks. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of backpack carriage with different loads on spatiotemporal parameters of gait, plantar pressure and force distribution under different foot regions in schoolchildren. We have assessed fifty-seven primary school students (7–9 years-old) performing four walks of 10 m (carrying 0%, 10%, 15% of body mass in the backpack and the load they brought to school). A floor-based photocell system was used to collect the gait kinematics and insoles capacitive pressure sensors the kinetics. Children walked slower and at lower cadence with the load brought to school than in the other three conditions. There was no significant main effect on stride length. Backpack carriage with different loads did have a significant effect on plantar pressure and force distribution. We noted that heavier the load, higher the pressure and force under different foot regions. Our findings highlight that gait biomechanics of children (such as stride kinematics and pressure under the feet) is affected by carrying loads in the backpacks.
Exploration of phase structure evolution induced by alloying elements in Ti alloys via a chemical-short-range-order cluster model
Authors: Jiang Beibei , Wang Qing , Dong Chuang , Liaw Peter K.
Published: March 2019

The prominent comprehensive properties of solid-solution- and intermetallic-based Ti alloys are derived from their diverse microstructures induced by multi-component alloying, which results in a chemical composition complexity. A cluster-plus-glue-atom model, characterizing the chemical short-range orders, was introduced to explore the relationships among the local atomic distributions of alloying elements in different phase structures of Ti alloys, including α-Ti, β-Ti, ω-Ti, α2-Ti3Al, γ-TiAl, O-Ti2AlNb, and B2-Ti(Al,Nb). Specific cluster structural units, i.e., cluster formulas, for these phases were determined with the guide of the Friedel oscillation theory for electron-structure stabilization. It is due to the change of cluster structural units that induces the phase transformation, which is attributed to the amounts of primary alloying elements of Al and Nb. The total atom number (Z) values in these cluster structural units, calculated by the Fermi vector kF, are all very close to the integer of Z = 16. Furthermore, the composition rules of industrial multi-component Ti alloys based on these phases were generalized in light of the cluster formula approach, which will open up a new route towards designing high-performance Ti alloys with complex compositions.
Detection of vaginal lactobacilli as probiotic candidates
Authors: Pino Alessandra , Bartolo Emanuela , Caggia Cinzia , Cianci Antonio , Randazzo Cinzia L.
Published: March 2019

The vaginal microbiota of healthy women is dominated by lactobacilli, which exerts important health-promoting effects to the host. In the present study, 261 lactobacilli isolated from vagina of healthy women were screened for their potential probiotic characteristics. Safety features (haemolytic activity, antibiotic susceptibility, bile salt hydrolase activity) and functional properties (resistance to low pH and bile salts, lysozyme tolerance, gastrointestinal survival, antagonistic activity against pathogens, hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, and co-aggregation abilities, hydrogen peroxide production, biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide production, adhesion capacity to both normal human vagina epithelial cells and Caco-2 epithelial cells, and lactic acid production) were in depth evaluated. Seven strains, identified as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus helveticus and Lactobacillus salivarius fulfilled the criteria described above. Therefore, the vaginal ecosystem represents a suitable source of probiotic candidates that could be used in new functional formulates for both gastrointestinal and vaginal eubiosis.
Author Correction: Transcriptomic immaturity inducible by neural hyperexcitation is shared by multiple neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Murano Tomoyuki , Hagihara Hideo , Tajinda Katsunori , Matsumoto Mitsuyuki , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2019

In the original published version of this article, Supplementary Data 1 reported gene expression fold changes incorrectly. The original supplementary file reported all fold changes as raw values, whereas the main text explains that genes with fold changes <1 were converted to the negative reciprocal (−1/(fold change)). This error has been corrected in the Supplementary Data 1 file.
Noncovalent Interactions in C–H Bond Functionalization
Authors: Mahmudov Kamran T. , Gurbanov Atash V. , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: March 2019

Over the past few decades, direct functionalization/activation of the C–H bond to C–E (E = C, N, O, S, metal, etc.) bonds has become one of the most valuable and straightforward protocols in modern synthetic chemistry. In parallel, controlling the selectivity remains a central challenge in the catalytic functionalization/activation of C–H bond(s) owing to the subtle differences in the reactivity of the various C–H bonds within the molecule. In this chapter, we discuss the crucial role of noncovalent interactions in C–H bond functionalization in alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatics, heterocyclics, aldehydes and ketones. These weak forces can be powerful tools in the formation/stabilization of intermediates and in controlling the selectivity and outcome of a reaction.
Anion–π Catalysis
Authors: Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio
Published: March 2019

The anion–π interaction is nowadays considered as a consolidated member of the supramolecular weak interactions family. In its naissance, it was mostly used in host–guest chemistry for the molecular recognition of anions. Nowadays its application to the construction of functional systems is attracting considerable attention. In this context, the anion–π interaction has become a prominent player in noncovalent catalysis since anionic intermediates can be conveniently stabilized on π-acidic surfaces. Remarkably, examples embrace enolate, enamine and iminium chemistry, domino processes and Diels–Alder reactions. Moreover, it is worth highlighting the recent appearance in the literature of the first example of asymmetric anion–π catalysis of cascade reactions that afford nonadjacent stereocentres. The anion–π catalysts are usually constructed using naphthalenediimide and/or fullerene building blocks, which present extended π-acidic surfaces along with high polarizabilities and are thus well suited for establishing anion–π interactions. In this chapter, we review the general concept of anion–π catalysis. It is based on the stabilization of anionic transition states and intermediates by anion–π interactions on π-acidic aromatic surfaces. Since 2013, anion–π catalysis has been explored with several reactions. In addition, anion–π enzymes and electric field-assisted anion–π catalysis are also described.
Noncovalent Interactions in the Design of Chiral Brønsted Acid Catalysts
Authors: Momiyama Norie
Published: March 2019

Chiral Brønsted acid catalysis is one of the most important tool in asymmetric synthesis. To achieve good reaction efficiency and selectivity, noncovalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding have been a key factor in the design of chiral Brønsted acid catalysts. Recent contributions in this area are summarized in this chapter.
Noncovalent Interactions in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Hunt Patricia A.
Published: March 2019

Ionic liquids (ILs) exhibit a wide range of noncovalent (NC) interactions, coulombic, van der Waals, H-bonding, halogen bonding and π interactions, giving rise to polar, lipophilic and fluorous domains. ILs also exhibit a variety of unique features and a high level of complexity in a single liquid environment. In this chapter, an understanding of the underlying NC interactions within ILs is developed. Catalysis in ILs is a well-established and diverse field, the IL normally playing the role of solvent, but the IL can also be an additive or the catalyst. The prevalence of NC interactions within ILs leads to NC interactions playing an important role in catalytic mechanisms and reactivity. Selected cases from the literature are used to highlight specific examples. However, in many cases the focus of reports on catalysis in ILs is on the performance and products and not on the mechanistic details. The range of interactions possible can make unravelling the effect of an IL on a reaction very difficult. The purpose of this chapter is to build a robust understanding of the NC interactions that occur between catalyst and IL, with the aim of being better able to conceptualize a potential mechanism.
Noncovalent Interactions of Biogenic Impurities with Transition Metal Catalyst Surfaces
Authors: Gupta Madhulika , Khan Tuhin S. , Agarwal Manish , Haider M. Ali
Published: March 2019

This chapter emphasizes the need for a fundamental understanding of the noncovalent interactions of amino acids with transition metal catalyst surfaces in aqueous systems. This understanding is essential for the growing development of the synthesis of bio-based fuels and chemicals using integrated fermentation and catalytic processing, wherein biogenic impurities (amino acids and protein residues) are observed to deactivate heterogeneous metal catalysts.
Noncovalent Interactions in Key Metal-centred Catalytic Intermediates: Structure–Electronic Relationship
Authors: Hamdaoui Mustapha , Djukic Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2019

This chapter covers the most recent advances in investigations of the most critical intermediates in transition metal-promoted processes with a main emphasis on metal-to-H–E bonding (mainly E = C, Si) interactions. After several decades of descriptive research on the interactions of C–H and Si–H bonds with coordinatively unsaturated metal centres, it is only recently that interest has risen in the role played by noncovalent interactions. It appears that recent advances in the understanding of so-called agostic interactions with metal centres demonstrate some control of the London force that the Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model cannot sense. It is suggested that similar efforts should be generalized to other metal-to-H–E bonding interactions.
4′-Aminobenzo-18-crown-6 functionalized magnetic nanoparticles as a solid-phase extraction adsorbent for the determination of Pb2+
Authors: Kang Jing-yan , Ha Wei , Zhang Hai-xia , Shi Yan-ping
Published: March 2019

A novel magnetic adsorbent for Pb2+ was synthesized based on 4′-aminobenzo-18-crown-6 (AB18C6) and Fe3O4–CHO via the Mannich reaction. It showed excellent adsorption and selectivity for Pb2+, and the established MSPE method had excellent potential, displaying the selective determination of trace Pb2+ from apples, milk and rice.
A bio-relevant supramolecular Co(ii)-complex for selective fluorescence sensing of μM range inorganic As(iii) in aqueous medium and its intracellular tracking in bacterial systems
Authors: Dhibar Subhendu , Yadav Priya , Paul Tanima , Sarkar Keka , Chattopadhyay Asoke Prasun , Krawczuk Anna , Dey Biswajit
Published: March 2019

A bio-relevant fluorescent supramolecular Co(ii)-complex selectively detects μM range toxic inorganic As(iii) in water and in bacterial systems.
Induced charge electro-osmotic particle separation
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Ren Yukun , Hou Likai , Feng Xiangsong , Jiang Tianyi , Jiang Hongyuan
Published: March 2019

We present a direct particle separation method based on induced charge electro-osmotic vortices in continuous flow.
Stabilizing the commensurate charge-density wave in 1T-tantalum disulfide at higher temperatures via potassium intercalation
Authors: Zhao Rui , Grisafe Benjamin , Ghosh Ram Krishna , Wang Ke , Datta Suman , Robinson Joshua
Published: March 2019

The 1T phase of tantalum disulfide (1T-TaS2) possesses a variety of charge-density-wave (CDW) orders, and as a result, it attracts an increasing amount of academic and technological interest.
Highly selective hydrogenation of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan over an acid–base bifunctional hafnium-based coordination polymer catalyst
Authors: Hu Lei , Dai Xiaoli , Li Ning , Tang Xing , Jiang Yetao
Published: March 2019

An acid–base bifunctional hafnium-based coordination polymer catalyst (Hf-DTMP) showed high catalytic activity and stability for the CTH of HMF into BHMF.
Assembly of amino acid containing naphthalene diimide-based molecules: the role of intervening amide groups in self-assembly, gelation, optical and semiconducting properties
Authors: Nandi Nibedita , Gayen Kousik , Banerjee Arindam
Published: March 2019

Two isomeric amino-acid containing naphthalene diimide based molecules differ in their respective assembly and the intervening amide groups plays an important role in gelation, optical and semiconducting nature of these molecules.
Soft thermal nanoimprint with a 10 nm feature size
Authors: Pandey Ashish , Tzadka Sivan , Yehuda Dor , Schvartzman Mark
Published: March 2019

We explore the miniaturization edge of soft nanoimprint molds, and demonstrate their feasibility to ultra-high resolution patterning of polymer films on planar and curved substrates, as well as of chalcogenide glasses.
Sandwich-like NiCo layered double hydroxide/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite cathodes for high energy density asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Le Kai , Wang Zhou , Wang Fenglong , Wang Qi , Shao Qian , Murugadoss Vignesh , Wu Shide , Liu Wei , Liu Jiurong , Gao Qiang , Guo Zhanhu
Published: March 2019

Lab-synthesized sandwich-like LDH/rGO composites were assembled into asymmetric supercapacitors exhibiting high energy density and excellent cycling stability.
LncRNA MALAT1 gene polymorphisms in coronary artery disease: a case–control study in a Chinese population
Authors: Hu Weina , Ding Hanxi , Ouyang An , Zhang Xiaohong , Xu Qian , Han Yunan , Zhang Xueying , Jin Yuanzhe
Published: March 2019

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the main fatal diseases all over the world. CAD is a complex disease, which has multiple risk factors mechanisms. In recent years, genome-wide association study (GWAS) had revealed single nucleotide polymorphism genes (SNPs) which were closely related with CAD risks. The relationship between long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) and CAD risk is largely unknown. To our knowledge, this is the first study which demonstrated the interaction effects of SNP–SNP and SNP–environment with CAD risk. In general, our case–control study is to detect the association between MALAT1 (rs619586, rs4102217) SNPs and CAD risk. Methods: Three hundred and sixty-five CAD patients and three hundred and eighty-four matched control participants blood samples were collected in Liaoning province, China. Two polymorphisms (rs619586, rs4102217) in lncRNA MALAT1 were genotyped by KASP platform. Results: In a stratified analysis, we found that non-drinkers with GC genotype and the recessive model of rs4102217 had higher CAD risk (P=0.010, odds ratio (OR): 1.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.17–3.28; P=0.026, OR: 1.73, 95% CI = 1.07–2.79) and diabetes mellitus (DM) history group (P=0.010, OR: 4.07, 95% CI = 1.41–11.81; P=0.019, OR: 3.29, 95% CI = 1.22–8.88). In SNP–SNP interactions analysis between MALAT1 and CAD risk, we found rs4102217 had an increase in smokers (GG: OR: 2.04, 95% CI = 1.42–2.92; CC+GC: OR: 2.64, 95% CI = 1.64–4.26) and a decrease in drinkers (CC+GC: OR: 0.33, 95% CI = 0.20–0.55). Smokers with MALAT1 rs619586 AA genotype (OR: 2.20, 95% CI = 1.57–3.07) and GG+AG genotype (OR: 2.11, 95% CI = 1.17–3.81) had a higher risk of CAD. Moreover, drinkers with AA genotype (OR: 0.22, 95% CI = 0.10–0.48) and GG+AG genotype (OR: 0.38, 95% CI = 0.22–0.65) had a lower risk of CAD. According to the MDR software, MALAT1 rs4102217 polymorphism-smoking-drinking was the best interaction model, which has higher risk of CAD (Testing Bal.ACC. = 0.6979). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the GC genotype and the recessive model of rs4102217 potentially increased CAD risk in some specific group.
LncRNA MRAK048635_P1 is critical for vascular smooth muscle cell function and phenotypic switching in essential hypertension
Authors: Fang Genqiang , Qi Jia , Huang Liya , Zhao Xianxian
Published: March 2019

Vascular remodeling caused by essential hypertension is a leading cause of death in patients, and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) dysfunction and phenotypic switching result in vascular remodeling. Therefore, inhibiting cell dysfunction and phenotypic switching in VSMCs may be a new treatment strategy for essential hypertension. The aim of the current study is to explore the roles of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MRAK048635_P1 in VSMC function and phenotypic switching. The MRAK048635_P1 level was determined in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and VSMCs isolated from SHRs. MRAK048635_P1 was knocked down using a specific siRNA in VSMCs isolated from the thoracic aorta of SHRs and Wistar–Kyoto rats. Then, the proliferation and migration of VSMCs were determined using a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), a 3H labeling method, a transwell assay, and a wound healing assay. Flow cytometry was used to test the effect of MRAK048635_P1 on VSMC apoptosis. The protein and mRNA levels of associated genes were measured through Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and Quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). MRAK048635_P1 showed low expression during hypertension in vivo and in vitro. Down-regulation of lncRNA MRAK048635_P1 promoted proliferation and migration and inhibited apoptosis in VSMCs isolated from healthy rat vascular tissue and SHR-derived VSMCs. Importantly, we also found that down-regulation of MRAK048635_P1 could induce VSMC phenotypic switching from a contractile to a secretory phenotype. In conclusion, our findings reveal that decreased MRAK048635_P1 is probably an important factor for vascular remodeling by affecting VSMC cell function and phenotypic switching in essential hypertension.
Buckling instability in tidally induced galactic bars
Authors: Łokas Ewa L.
Published: March 2019

Strong galactic bars produced in simulations tend to undergo a period of buckling instability that weakens and thickens them and forms a boxy/peanut structure in their central parts. This theoretical prediction has been confirmed by identifying such morphologies in real galaxies. The nature and origin of this instability, however, remain poorly understood with some studies claiming that it is due to fire-hose instability while others relating it to vertical instability of stellar orbits supporting the bar. One of the channels for the formation of galactic bars is via the interaction of disky galaxies with perturbers of significant mass. Tidally induced bars offer a unique possibility of studying buckling instability because their formation can be controlled by changing the strength of the interaction while keeping the initial structure of the galaxy the same. We used a set of four simulations of flyby interactions where a galaxy on a prograde orbit forms a bar, which is stronger for stronger tidal forces. We studied their buckling by calculating different kinematic signatures, including profiles of the mean velocity in the vertical direction, as well as distortions of the bars out of the disk plane. Although our two strongest bars buckle most strongly, there is no direct relation between the ratio of vertical to horizontal velocity dispersion and the bar’s susceptibility to buckling, as required by the fire-hose instability interpretation. While our weakest bar buckles, a stronger one does not, its dispersion ratio remains low, and it grows to become the strongest of all at the end of evolution. Instead, we find that during buckling the resonance between the vertical and radial orbital frequencies becomes wide and therefore able to modify stellar orbits over a significant range of radii. We conclude that vertical orbital instability is the more plausible explanation for the origin of buckling.
Flaps for Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstruction: Review of Literature and a Clinical Guide to the Clinicians
Authors: Mittal Gaurav , Agarwal Anmol , Kataria Gaurav
Published: March 2019

There are many different ways documented for reconstruction of oral and maxillofacial (OMF) region among which the use of flaps (local or distant) is commonly practiced worldwide. Modern techniques of OMF reconstruction aim to restore function as well as improve aesthetics. This article intends to review the literature on varied flaps used in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) and summarize their precise clinical implications taking into consideration the ease, difficulties, and the ultimate clinical outcomes. A review of the literature of local or distant flaps used in OMFS was done using Google database. There are many different methods of reconstruction in patients who have had defect in the OMF region due to vascular reasons. It is important for the OMF surgeon who is involved with the management of such patients to have an understanding regarding the choice of flap used to reconstruct such defects.
Trends in unplanned readmissions over 15 years: a regional Australian perspective
Authors: Westley-Wise Victoria , Lago Luise , Mullan Judy , Facci Franca , Zingel Rebekah , Eagar Kathy
Published: March 2019

Objective
The aim of this study was to assess 15-year trends in unplanned readmissions in an Australian regional health service.

Methods
Drawing on data held in the Illawarra Health Information Platform (IHIP), this longitudinal retrospective study of adults admitted to hospital between 2001–02 and 2015–16 assessed rates of unplanned all-cause readmissions within 30 days (‘early’) and 1–6 months (‘late’) following discharge. Rates were compared over time and between patient groups.

Results
Age-adjusted early readmission rates declined over the 15 years by an average of 1.3% per annum, whereas late readmission rates increased by an average of 0.6% per annum. Together, there was an overall decline in readmission rates. The entire decline in early readmission rates and a reversal of the increasing trend in late readmission rates occurred since 2010–11. Similar trends occurred across age groups, but were most pronounced among those aged ≥75 years.

Conclusions
The decline in readmissions since 2010–11 suggests that the region has achieved improvements in discharge planning and in continuity between hospitals and community-based care. These improvements have occurred across broad patient groups. The longitudinal and linked data held in the IHIP provides a unique opportunity to examine patterns of service utilisation at a regional level.

What is known about the topic?
Published reports of longitudinal trends in readmissions are typically limited by short study periods and narrow criteria used to define study populations and readmissions. Australian longitudinal data suggest rates of early readmission have remained relatively unchanged in recent years, despite the focus on readmission rates as a metric to assess the quality and continuity of care.

What does this paper add?
This unique longitudinal study reports on long-term readmission trends over 15 years to hospitals within a single geographic area, with trends reported for both early (30-day) and late (1- to 6-month) readmissions by age group and major diagnostic categories. The findings reflect more complex patterns than are typically reported in cross-sectional and more limited longitudinal studies.

What are the implications for practitioners?
The results suggest improvements at a regional level that may be associated with care during the initial hospitalisation and discharge (reflected particularly in early readmissions) and in the community (reflected particularly in late readmissions). Future investigations will explore specific patient groups and the effects of specific initiatives, services and models of care to better predict those at risk of readmission and to inform translation locally and further afield. The relationship between readmissions and the use of ambulatory services (primary care, emergency department and out-patient) also warrants further investigation.