bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
History-dependent spiking facilitates efficient encoding of polarization angles in neurons of the central complex
Authors: Rother Lisa , Stöckl Anna , Pfeiffer Keram
Published: September 2024

Many insects use the polarization pattern of the sky for spatial orientation. Since flying insects perform rapid maneuvers, including saccadic yaw turns which alternate with translational flight, they perceive highly dynamic polarization input to their navigation system. The tuning of compass-neurons in the central complex of insects, however, has been mostly investigated with polarized-light stimuli that rotated at slow and constant velocities, and thus were lacking these natural dynamics. Here we investigated the dynamic response properties of compass-neurons, using intracellular recordings in the central complex of bumblebees. We generated naturalistic stimuli by rotating a polarizer either according to a sequence of head orientations that have been reported from freely flying bumblebees, or at constant velocities between 30°/s and 1920°/s, spanning almost the entire range of naturally occurring rotation velocities. We found that compass neurons responded reliably across the entire range of the presented stimuli. In their responses, we observed a dependency on spiking history. We further investigated this dependency using a rate code model taking spiking history into account. Extending the model to a neuronal population with different polarization tuning, which mirrored the neuronal architecture of the central complex, suggests that spiking history has a directly impact on the overall population activity, which has two effects: First, it facilitates faster responses to stimulus changes during highly dynamic flight maneuvers, and increases sensitivity for course deviations during straight flight. Second, population activity during phases of constant polarization input is reduced, which might conserve energy during straight flight.
Enhancing machine learning-based forecasting of chronic renal disease with explainable AI
Authors: Singamsetty Sanjana , Ghanta Swetha , Biswas Sujit , Pradhan Ashok
Published: September 2024

Chronic renal disease (CRD) is a significant concern in the field of healthcare, highlighting the crucial need of early and accurate prediction in order to provide prompt treatments and enhance patient outcomes. This article presents an end-to-end predictive model for the binary classification of CRD in healthcare, addressing the crucial need for early and accurate predictions to enhance patient outcomes. Through hyperparameter optimization using GridSearchCV, we significantly improve model performance. Leveraging a range of machine learning (ML) techniques, our approach achieves a high predictive accuracy of 99.07% for random forest, extra trees classifier, logistic regression with L2 penalty, and artificial neural networks (ANN). Through rigorous evaluation, the logistic regression with L2 penalty emerges as the top performer, demonstrating consistent performance. Moreover, integration of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, such as Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME) and SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), enhances interpretability and reveals insights into model decision-making. By emphasizing an end-to-end model development process, from data collection to deployment, our system enables real-time predictions and informed healthcare decisions. This comprehensive approach underscores the potential of predictive modeling in healthcare to optimize clinical decision-making and improve patient care outcomes.
Deep learning-based methodology for vulnerability detection in smart contracts
Authors: Wang Zhibo , Guoming Liu , Xu Hongzhen , You Shengyu , Ma Han , Wang Hongling
Published: September 2024

Smart contracts play an essential role in the handling and management of digital assets, where vulnerabilities can lead to severe security issues and financial losses. Current detection techniques are largely limited to identifying single vulnerabilities and lack comprehensive identification capabilities for multiple vulnerabilities that may coexist in smart contracts. To address this challenge, we propose a novel multi-label vulnerability detection model that integrates extractive summarization methods with deep learning, referred to as Ext-ttg. The model begins by preprocessing the data using an extractive summarization approach, followed by the deployment of a custom-built deep learning model to detect vulnerabilities in smart contracts. Experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves commendable performance across various metrics, establishing the effectiveness of the proposed approach in the multi-vulnerability detection tasks within smart contracts.
Hierarchical transformer speech depression detection model research based on Dynamic window and Attention merge
Authors: Yue Xiaoping , Zhang Chunna , Wang Zhijian , Yu Yang , Cong Shengqiang , Shen Yuming , Zhao Jinchi
Published: September 2024

Depression Detection of Speech is widely applied due to its ease of acquisition and imbuing with emotion. However, there exist challenges in effectively segmenting and integrating depressed speech segments. Multiple merges can also lead to blurred original information. These problems diminish the effectiveness of existing models. This article proposes a Hierarchical Transformer model for speech depression detection based on dynamic window and attention merge, abbreviated as DWAM-Former. DWAM-Former utilizes a Learnable Speech Split module (LSSM) to effectively separate the phonemes and words within an entire speech segment. Moreover, the Adaptive Attention Merge module (AAM) is introduced to generate representative feature representations for each phoneme and word in the sentence. DWAM-Former also associates the original feature information with the merged features through a Variable-Length Residual module (VL-RM), reducing feature loss caused by multiple mergers. DWAM-Former has achieved highly competitive results in the depression detection dataset DAIC-WOZ. An MF1 score of 0.788 is received in the experiment, representing a 7.5% improvement over previous research.
In silico directed evolution of Anabas testudineus AtMP1 antimicrobial peptide to improve in vitro anticancer activity
Authors: Fazry Shazrul , Najm Ahmed Abdulkareem , Mahdi Ibrahim Mahmood , Ang Arnold , Lee LiTing , Loh Choy-Theng , Syed Alwi Sharifah Sakinah , Li Fang , Law Douglas
Published: September 2024

Various studies have demonstrated that directed evolution is a powerful tool in enhancing protein properties. In this study, directed evolution was used to enhance the efficacy of synthesised Anabas testudineus AtMP1 antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells. The modification of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and prediction of peptide properties using bioinformatic tools were carried out using four databases, including ADP3, CAMP-R3, AMPfun, and ANTICP. One modified antimicrobial peptide (AMP), ATMP6 (THPPTTTTTTTTTTTTTAAPARTT), was chosen based on its projected potent anticancer effect, taking into account factors such as amino acid length, net charge, anticancer activity score, and hydrophobicity. The selected AMPs were subjected to study in deep-learning databases, namely ToxIBTL and ToxinPred2, to predict their toxicity. Furthermore, the allergic properties of these antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) were verified by utilising AllerTOP and AllergenFP. Based on the results obtained from the database study, it was projected that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) demonstrate a lack of toxicity towards human cells that is indicative of the broader population. After 48 hours of incubation, the IC50 values of ATMP6 against the HS27 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines were found to be 48.03 ± 0.013 µg/ml and 7.52 ± 0.027 µg/ml, respectively. The IC50 values of the original peptide ATMP1 against the MDA-MB-231 and HS27 cell lines were determined to be 59.6 ± 0.14 µg/ml and 8.25 ± 0.14 µg/ml, respectively, when compared. Furthermore, the results indicated that the injection of ATMP6 induced apoptosis in the MDA-MB-231 cell lines. The present investigation has revealed new opportunities for advancing novel targeted peptide therapeutics to tackle cancer.
Molecular and agro-morphological diversity assessment of some bread wheat genotypes and their crosses for drought tolerance
Authors: Ezzat Mohamed A. , Alotaibi Nahaa M. , Soliman Said S. , Sultan Mahasin , Kamara Mohamed M. , Abd El-Moneim Diaa , Felemban Wessam F. , Al Aboud Nora M. , Aljabri Maha , Abdelmalek Imen Ben , Mansour Elsayed , Hassanin Abdallah A.
Published: September 2024

Wheat, a staple cereal crop, faces challenges due to climate change and increasing global population. Maintaining genetic diversity is vital for developing drought-tolerant cultivars. This study evaluated the genetic diversity and drought response of five wheat cultivars and their corresponding F1 hybrids under well-watered and drought stress conditions. Molecular profiling using ISSR and SCoT-PCR markers revealed 28 polymorphic loci out of 76 amplified. A statistically significant impact of parental genotypes and their crosses was observed on all investigated agro-morphological traits, including root length, root weight, shoot length, shoot weight, proline content, spikelet number/spike, spike length, grain number/spike, and grain weight/spike. The parental genotypes P1 and P3 had desirable positive and significant general combining ability (GCA) effects for shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot length, and root length under well-watered conditions, while P3 and P5 recorded the highest GCA estimates under drought stress. P3 and P4 showed the highest GCA effects for number of spikelets per spike, the number of grains per spike, and grain weight per spike under normal conditions. P5 presented the maximum GCA effects and proved to be the best combiner under drought stress conditions. The cross P1× P3 showed the highest positive specific combining ability (SCA) effects for shoot fresh weight under normal conditions, while P2×P3 excelled under water deficit conditions. P1× P2, P1 × P3, and P4× P5 were most effective for shoot dry weight under normal conditions, whereas P1×P3 and P3×P5 showed significant SCA effects under drought stress. Positive SCA effects for root fresh weight and shoot length were observed for P3×P5 under stressed conditions. Additionally, P4×P5 consistently recorded the highest SCA for root length in both environments, and P3×P5 excelled in the number of spikelets, grains per spike, and grain weight per spike under drought conditions. The evaluated genotypes were categorized based on their agronomic performance under drought stress into distinct groups ranging from drought-tolerant genotypes (group A) to drought-sensitive ones (group C). The genotypes P5, P2×P5, and P3×P5 were identified as promising genotypes to improve agronomic performance under water deficit conditions. The results demonstrated genetic variations for drought tolerance and highlighted the potential of ISSR and SCoT markers in wheat breeding programs for developing drought-tolerant cultivars.
Can cognitive and psychosocial factors mitigate misinformation? Study in a Costa Rican sample.
Authors: Pérez Sánchez Rolando , Brenes Peralta Carlos , Smith Castro Vanessa , Molina Delgado Mauricio
Published: September 2024

El estudio tiene como objetivo investigar los sesgos asociados a variables socio-cognitivas y psicosociales relacionadas con la desinformación. Especialmente interesa examinar la reflexividad cognitiva, la conciencia metacognitiva, la identificación con el grupo, las ideologías políticas y la religiosidad como variables predictoras asociadas tanto a la identificación de mensajes de desinformación como a la intención de compartirlos. Se llevó a cabo un experimento en línea con 328 estudiantes universitarios (49% mujeres) para estimar la presencia del sesgo de la verdad ilusoria y el efecto de las condiciones de inoculación. Los participantes fueron asignados a una de tres condiciones de inoculación cognitiva (evaluación individual, metacognición o condición de control) y leyeron varios mensajes falsos y verdaderos sobre política y asuntos públicos. Nuestros resultados han revelado la presencia del efecto de la verdad ilusoria en la muestra costarricense. Las personas con mayor conciencia metacognitiva se vieron menos afectadas por el sesgo de la verdad ilusoria al evaluar tanto mensajes falsos como verdaderos. Los participantes que tienden a identificarse con su endogrupo presentan mayor probabilidad de percibir los mensajes falsos como verdaderos. Los hallazgos no mostraron una reducción sustancial del sesgo con las condiciones de inoculación.
Mercado do Gêmeo Digital: aplicação da matriz SWOT para análise mercadológica e tendências do setor
Authors: Araujo Andressa Clara Barbosa de , Oliveira Daniel Marques Santana , Lopes Emilli Cássia Souza , Silva Marcus Vinícius Lemos da , Sant'Anna Ângelo Márcio Oliveira , Pimentel Cristiane Agra
Published: September 2024

Com o advento da indústria 4.0, novas tecnologias digitais avançadas são integradas ao processo produtivo promovendo uma maior produtividade na área industrial. Dentre elas, destaca-se o Gêmeo Digital (GD), uma representação digital do meio físico com elevada confiabilidade e similaridade. Seu uso gera benefícios como otimização de tempo, aumento da confiabilidade e segurança diante às tomadas de decisões, além da redução de custos. As projeções positivas chamaram à atenção de gestores e pesquisadores sobre o GD, e portanto, é necessário analisar os avanços da tecnologia e o ambiente no qual está inserida. Neste sentido, o presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar o cenário atual do mercado do gêmeo digital no contexto brasileiro. Para tanto, foi feito uma busca bibliográfica e documental sobre o tema e para construção dos resultados foi utilizada a ferramenta de gestão análise SWOT. Com a análise, percebeu-se que o mercado do gêmeo digital está em evolução, apresentando-se como uma tecnologia versátil, no entanto, para o uso bem-sucedido é necessário um alto investimento e mão de obra especializada. Sendo assim, são necessárias estratégias que incentivem o uso e a disseminação de informação sobre os benefícios do gêmeo digital e da indústria 4.0.
Bio-efficacy of Different Botanical Extracts on Aphis craccivora in Black Gram
Authors: C Shanmuga Priya , T Rani
Published: September 2024

The studies on “Bio-efficacy of botanical extracts against Aphis craccivora in black gram was carried out in the Department of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. The black gram aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch. (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is one of the major devastating and cosmopolitan-sucking pests in Blackgram. Bio-efficacy of Pongamia pinnata leaf extract 5 % and 10 %, Annona squamosa leaf extract 5% and 10%, Andrographis panniculata leaf extract 5% and 10% and Catharanthus roseus leaf extract 5% and 10% with Azadirachtin as a standard check it was evaluated on 3rd instar nymphs of Aphis craccivora on topical bioassay and feeding bioassay. In which C. roseus leaf extracts of 5% and 10% has shown the highest mortality rate on par with Azadirachtin 5% which is kept as a standard check.
Principles and Practices of Zero Budget Natural Farming
Authors: Chandravanshi Morajdhawaj , Behera Pratishruti , Kashyap Suman , Ray Raghunath , Karan Nirmal , Boro Bhargav
Published: September 2024

Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) is a way of farming, which is based on minimum use of external inputs, no use of chemicals, minimum disturbance to soil, use of local bio-resources for production various commodities in the farm, etc. ZBNF is based on four major pillars: Jeevarutha; Bijamruita; Acchadana (mulching) and Whapasa (moisture management). Advantages of ZBNF are improvement of yield, ensurance of better health, environment conservation, increased farmers’ income, employment generation, reduced water consumption, minimized cost of production, reduced water consumption, elimination of application of synthetic chemical inputs, rejuvenation of soil health, etc. ZBNF has been getting popularity in different states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Government support is needed for extending the same to other states. In this chapter, effort has been made to compile the information available in different sources.
Naturals Dyes from Detarium Microcarpum Guill. and Perr. as Photosensitizers in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Boulhassane Abdourahamane Saidou , Kallo Moutari Souley , Adamou Hassane , Mahamane Abdoulkadri Ayouba , Adamou Rabani , Khalid Ikiri
Published: September 2024

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) are promising devices in the photovoltaic industry. In these devices, The dye plays a major role in the performance of the cell. However, the toxicity and cost of synthetic dyes, which are more effective, limit their use. Thus, the use of natural dyes is a promising alternative. In this article, natural dyes extracted from the trunk bark of Detarium Microcarpum Guill. and Perr (DM) were used, for the first time, in DSSC. Aqueous decoction followed by Hydro-acetonic extraction (30/70, V/V) was carried out to obtain the crude extract from the bark ground into a powder. Then a phytochemical screening of the crude extract followed by liquid-liquid separation and assay of the main colored compounds in order to evaluate the amount of total polyphenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins were carried out. The different separated fractions were tested as photosensitizers in DSSC.The extraction of the crude pigment from the bark of the trunk of Detarium Microcarpum gave a very interesting yield of 20.48% compared to others. The results of the phytochemical tests reveal the presence of the following compounds: catechic tannins, gallic tannins, flavonoids, anthocyanins, leuco anthocyanins, coumarins, quinones and alkaloids with high concentrations. The results of the photovoltaic tests of the different separate extracts show that the n-butanol extract is the most efficient. Cells sensitized with this extract showed a photocurrent (Jcc) of 0.93 mA/cm2, a high open circuit voltage (Voc) of 433 mV and a high conversion efficiency η (%) of 0.38%. This conversion efficiency is higher than that of a recent study which reported a conversion of 0.31%. These results show that Detarium Microcarpum constitutes a potential source of photosensitive dye.
Host Plant Resistance Studies on Rice Cultivars against Sheath Rot Caused by Sarocladium oryzae (Sawada) Gams and Hawksworth
Authors: K. B Bharathi , V. B Sanath Kumar , G. R Denesh , M. S Kitturmath , K. N Pallavi
Published: September 2024

Rice sheath rot caused by the fungus Sarocladium oryzae, has become a highly destructive rice disease with a high variability in yield loss levels. Therefore, sheath rot disease can be effectively managed through crop improvement strategies viz., discovery of resistance sources from varieties, germplasm, landraces, wild genetic resources and further deploying them in breeding programmes. In this study, we evaluated 338 NSN-1 rice cultures for their resistance to sheath rot at ZARS V.C. farm Mandya during Kharif 2023with HR-12 as a susceptible check under natural and artificially inoculated conditions and disease severity was assessed using a 0-9 disease scoring scale. Our results revealed considerable variations in sheath rot resistance among the NSN-1 rice cultures. Several lines exhibited different levels of resistance, Out of 338, seven NSN-1 cultures were found immune with no disease (viz., NSN-1-4612, NSN-1-4628, NSN-1-4502, NSN-1-4304, NSN-1-5310, NSN-1-4138 and Rasi). One NSN-1-5815 line showed resistance reaction with less than one per cent disease, suggesting their potential for deployment in breeding programs aimed at developing sheath rot resistant rice varieties. These findings contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance the resistance of rice cultivars to sheath rot, thereby ensuring the sustainability of paddy cultivation.
Nanocomposite Hydrogels and Their Applications in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Motealleh Andisheh , Kehr Nermin Seda
Published: November 2016

Nanocomposite (NC) hydrogels, organic–inorganic hybrid materials, are of great interest as artificial three‐dimensional (3D) biomaterials for biomedical applications. NC hydrogels are prepared in water by chemically or physically cross‐linking organic polymers with nanomaterials (NMs). The incorporation of hard inorganic NMs into the soft organic polymer matrix enhances the physical, chemical, and biological properties of NC hydrogels. Therefore, NC hydrogels are excellent candidates for artificial 3D biomaterials, particularly in tissue engineering applications, where they can mimic the chemical, mechanical, electrical, and biological properties of native tissues. A wide range of functional NMs and synthetic or natural organic polymers have been used to design new NC hydrogels with novel properties and tailored functionalities for biomedical uses. Each of these approaches can improve the development of NC hydrogels and, thus, provide advanced 3D biomaterials for biomedical applications.
Diverse Reactivity in a Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Vinylic sp2 C–H Bond Functionalization: Synthesis of Fused Polycyclic Heteroarenes or Conjugated Dienes
Authors: Li Shuai‐Shuai , Xia Ying‐Qi , Liu Chen‐Fei , Zhang Guo‐Tai , Su Fu , Zhang Xiao‐Mei , Dong Lin
Published: November 2016

An efficient rhodium(III)‐catalyzed vinylic sp2 C–H bond activation of 7‐azaindoles with alkynes is reported, leading to the controlled synthesis of stereodefined diene and fused polycyclic heteroarene products. The novel strategy for the synthesis of diverse coupling products was controlled by the reaction conditions and the substitutions on the vinyl group.

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Copper‐Mediated Tandem C(sp2)–H Sulfenylation and Annulation of Arenes with 2‐Mercaptoimidazoles: Regio‐ and Site‐selective Access to Polycyclic Fused Imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3]thiazinones
Authors: Liu Jidan , Xue Zixi , Zeng Zhizhao , Chen Yi‐xin , Chen Guoshu
Published: November 2016

An efficient copper‐mediated tandem C(sp2)–H sulfenylation and annulation of arenes with 2‐mercaptoimidazoles to provide polycyclic fused imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3]thiazinones has been developed. This tandem reaction is likely initiated by C(sp2)–H thiolation of benzamide with 2‐mercaptoimidazole followed by intramolecular nucleophilic substitution of the amide carbonyl group. A notable feature of this reaction is that it can afford rather complex products in a single synthesis step from easily accessible starting materials using amide‐oxazoline as a removable bidentate directing group. A variety of benzamides and 2‐mercaptoimidazoles bearing different substituents are compatible with this transformation.

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Synthesis of 3‐Benzazepines by Metal‐Free Oxidative C–H Bond Functionalization–Ring Expansion Tandem Reaction
Authors: Gini Andrea , Bamberger Julia , Luis‐Barrera Javier , Zurro Mercedes , Mas‐Ballesté Rubén , Alemán José , Mancheño Olga García
Published: November 2016

A metal‐free synthesis of biologically important benzazepines is achieved through a single synthetic operation involving an oxidative C–H bond functionalization and ring expansion with diazomethanes as key reagent. This represents a new, strong methodology for the straightforward construction of the seven‐ring N‐heterocyclic structures under mild conditions using a 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine 1‐oxyl (TEMPO) oxoammonium salt as oxidant. Moderate to good yields are achieved from simple, readily available tetrahydroisoquinolines, and this methodology has been further successfully applied for the synthesis of the 3‐benzazepine drug Lorcaserin. A possible mechanistic pathway for the ring expansion step, comprising the extrusion of nitrogen in a concerted asynchronic process, is proposed based on both mechanistic proof and density function theory (DFT) calculations.

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Large‐Area, Freestanding MOF Films of Planar, Curvilinear, or Micropatterned Topographies
Authors: Yoon Seok Min , Park Jun Heuk , Grzybowski Bartosz A.
Published: November 2016

Freestanding MOF films up to six‐inches across and replicating various surface (micro)patterns are prepared via a templated growth method. When grown on copper supports, these films have preferred orientation of the constituent crystallites, translating into markedly different wetting properties of the film's two surfaces (water‐pinning vs. water repellant). In addition, the films exhibit differential sorption of various organic solvents, can recover oil spills from seawater, and can also act as active layers of chemical sensors.
Das Tris(pentafluorethyl)silanid‐Anion
Authors: Schwarze Nico , Steinhauer Simon , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Hoge Berthold
Published: November 2016

Tris(pentafluorethyl)silan, das durch die simple Umsetzung von Si(C2F5)3X (X=Cl, Br) mit Bu3SnH zugänglich ist, wird in Hydrosilylierungsreaktionen eingesetzt. In Gegenwart eines Palladiumkatalysators liefert die Hydrosilylierung von Phenylacetylen mit Si(C2F5)3H das α‐Additionsprodukt, wohingegen die Hydrosilylierung von Trimethylsilylacetylen zur Bildung des β‐trans‐Produktes führt. Sterisch anspruchsvolle Basen wie Lithiumdiisopropylamid ermöglichen die Deprotonierung des Tris(pentafluorethyl)silans bei tiefen Temperaturen, was die Bildung des entsprechenden Silanid‐Anions zur Folge hat. Die Zugabe von Kronenethern oder Kryptanden zu dieser hochreaktiven Spezies erlaubt die Isolierung und Charakterisierung des salzartigen Tris(pentafluorethyl)silanids bei Raumtemperatur.
Biomimicry Promotes the Efficiency of a 10‐Step Sequential Enzymatic Reaction on Nanoparticles, Converting Glucose to Lactate
Authors: Mukai Chinatsu , Gao Lizeng , Nelson Jacquelyn L. , Lata James P. , Cohen Roy , Wu Lauren , Hinchman Meleana M. , Bergkvist Magnus , Sherwood Robert W. , Zhang Sheng , Travis Alexander J.
Published: November 2016

For nanobiotechnology to achieve its potential, complex organic–inorganic systems must grow to utilize the sequential functions of multiple biological components. Critical challenges exist: immobilizing enzymes can block substrate‐binding sites or prohibit conformational changes, substrate composition can interfere with activity, and multistep reactions risk diffusion of intermediates. As a result, the most complex tethered reaction reported involves only 3 enzymes. Inspired by the oriented immobilization of glycolytic enzymes on the fibrous sheath of mammalian sperm, here we show a complex reaction of 10 enzymes tethered to nanoparticles. Although individual enzyme efficiency was higher in solution, the efficacy of the 10‐step pathway measured by conversion of glucose to lactate was significantly higher when tethered. To our knowledge, this is the most complex organic–inorganic system described, and it shows that tethered, multi‐step biological pathways can be reconstituted in hybrid systems to carry out functions such as energy production or delivery of molecular cargo.
Superhelices Self‐Assembled from Polypeptide‐Based Polymer Mixtures: Multistranded Features
Authors: Zhu Xingyu , Lin Jiaping , Cai Chunhua
Published: November 2016

Poly(γ‐benzyl‐l‐glutamate)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PBLG‐b‐PEG) rod–coil block copolymers and poly(γ‐benzyl‐l‐glutamate) (PBLG) homopolymers can cooperatively self‐assemble into superhelical structures in aqueous solution. Herein, we discovered that the helices can have multiple strands with tunable characteristics. The strand number was dependent on the initial polymer concentration of the self‐assembly, the self‐assembly temperature, and the weight fraction of the block copolymers in the mixture. Higher initial polymer concentrations or lower weight fractions of the block copolymers induced the formation of helices with larger diameters and higher strand numbers, and helices prepared at higher temperatures had higher strand numbers. Based on an analysis of the correlation between the geometric parameters of the helices and the strand number, a possible mechanism for the formation of multistranded superhelices is suggested.
Randomized trial of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy in achieving excess weight loss
Authors: Ignat M , Vix M , Imad I , D'Urso A , Perretta S , Marescaux J , Mutter D
Published: November 2016

Background

Robust data on quality of life (QoL) after different techniques of bariatric surgery are sparse. This RCT compared excess weight loss (EWL) and QoL after sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

Methods

Obese patients were assigned randomly to RYGB or sleeve gastrectomy. The primary outcome measure was EWL. Secondary outcomes included QoL, co-morbidity, adverse events, vitamin and glycolipid status. QoL was assessed before and annually after surgery, using the Moorehead–Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II (M-A-QoLQII) and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI).

Results

One hundred patients were enrolled, 45 in the RYGB group and 55 in the sleeve gastrectomy group. Mean postoperative EWL at 1, 2, 3 and 5 years was 80·4, 79·8, 83·0 and 74·8 per cent respectively after RYGB, and 83·0, 77·8, 66·3 and 65·1 per cent after sleeve gastrectomy (P = 0·017). Mean M-A-QoLQII score before surgery and at 1, 2, 3 and 5 years after operation was 0·5, 1·6, 1·7, 2·1 and 1·4 respectively after RYGB, and 0·3, 1·7, 1·5, 1·5 and 1·2 after sleeve gastrectomy. Mean GIQLI score before and at 1, 2, 3, 5 years after RYGB was 96·4, 113·8, 113·3, 113·4, 111·7, compared with 90·7, 113·9, 114·5, 113·1 and 113·0 for sleeve gastrectomy. The improvement was significant compared with preoperative values (P < 0·001 for M-A-QoLQII and GIQLI), with no difference between groups (P = 0·418 and P = 0·323 respectively). RYGB resulted in higher readmission rates (P = 0·002) and length of hospital stay (P = 0·006) than sleeve gastrectomy.

Conclusion

RYGB and sleeve gastrectomy resulted in equivalent, long-standing QoL improvement. RYGB resulted in more stable weight loss but was associated with higher readmission rates. Registration number: NCT02475590.
Meta-analysis of lower perioperative blood glucose target levels for reduction of surgical-site infection
Authors: de Vries F E E , Gans S L , Solomkin J S , Allegranzi B , Egger M , Dellinger E P , Boermeester M A
Published: November 2016

Background

There is a clear association between hyperglycaemia and surgical-site infection (SSI). Intensive glucose control may involve a risk of hypoglycaemia, which in turn results in potentially severe complications. A systematic review was undertaken of studies comparing intensive versus conventional glucose control protocols in relation to reduction of SSI and other outcomes, including hypoglycaemia, mortality and stroke.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL and WHO databases from 1 January 1990 to 1 August 2015 were searched. Inclusion criteria were RCTs comparing intensive with conventional glucose control protocols, and reporting on the incidence of SSI. Meta-analyses were performed with a random-effects model, and meta-regression was subsequently undertaken. Targeted blood glucose levels, achieved blood glucose levels, and important adverse events were summarized.

Results

Fifteen RCTs were included. The summary estimate showed a significant benefit for an intensive compared with a conventional glucose control protocol in reducing SSI (odds ratio (OR) 0·43, 95 per cent c.i. 0·29 to 0·64; P < 0·001). A significantly higher risk of hypoglycaemic events was found for the intensive group compared with the conventional group (OR 5·55, 2·58 to 11·96), with no increased risk of death (OR 0·74, 0·45 to 1·23) or stroke (OR 1·37, 0·26 to 7·20). These results were consistent both in patients with and those without diabetes, and in studies with moderately strict and very strict glucose control.

Conclusion

Stricter and lower blood glucose target levels of less than 150 mg/dl (8·3 mmol/l), using an intensive protocol in the perioperative period, reduce SSI with an inherent risk of hypoglycaemic events but without a significant increase in serious adverse events.
Childhood maltreatment, psychopathology, and the development of hippocampal subregions during adolescence
Authors: Whittle Sarah , Simmons Julian G. , Hendriksma Sylke , Vijayakumar Nandita , Byrne Michelle L. , Dennison Meg , Allen Nicholas B.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

It is well established that childhood maltreatment has a detrimental impact on the brain, particularly the hippocampus. However, the hippocampus is a functionally and structurally heterogeneous region, and little is known about how maltreatment might affect hippocampal subregion development throughout important periods of plasticity. This study investigated whether childhood maltreatment was associated with the development of hippocampal subregion volumes from early to late adolescence. It also investigated associations between onset of psychiatric disorder and hippocampal subregion volume development.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐six (85 male) adolescents took part in three magnetic resonance imaging assessments during adolescence (mean age at each assessment: 12.79 [SD 0.43] years, 16.70 [SD 0.52] years, and 19.08 [SD 0.46] years), provided a self‐report of childhood maltreatment, and were assessed for Axis I psychopathology.

Results

Childhood maltreatment was associated with the development of right total and left cornu ammonis 4 (CA4‐DG) volumes from early to late adolescence. Early and late onset psychopathology was associated with the development of right presubiculum and right cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) volumes, respectively. Maltreatment findings appeared to be specific to males, whereas psychopathology findings appeared to be specific to females.

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence for possible deleterious effects of childhood maltreatment and early onset psychiatric disorder on the development of different subregions of the hippocampus. Altered development of the right CA1, on the other hand, might precede the development of late‐adolescent onset psychopathology. Our results highlight the importance of considering development in research examining associations between stress, mental illness, and hippocampal morphology.
Comment on “Out‐of‐Cell Oxygen Diffusivity Evaluation in Lithium–Air Batteries” by He et al.
Authors: Corti Horacio R. , Cortés Páez Henry Andrés
Published: November 2016

In a recent paper, He et al. (ChemElectroChem 2014, 1, 2052–2057) described a methodology for measuring out‐of‐cell oxygen diffusivity in lithium–air battery (LAB) cathodes, combining an electrochemical device with a classical gas‐transport model. We will demonstrate here that the authors erroneously assumed that the Knudsen diffusivity of gaseous oxygen in the porous cathode is smaller than the diffusivity in the electrolyte and, consequently, that the oxygen mass transport would limit the current output of the battery. Therefore, it is impossible to determine the oxygen diffusivity in LAB cathodes by using the electrochemical device proposed by the authors, comprising an oxygen pump, the LAB cathode, and an oxygen sensor.
Bernard L. Feringa, Nobel Prize for Chemistry 2016
Authors: Amabilino David B. , Berova Nina D. , Caldwell John
Published: November 2016

We congratulate Ben Feringa on the award of the 2016 Nobel Prize for Chemistry
Highly Stable Mixed‐Lanthanide Metal–Organic Frameworks for Self‐Referencing and Colorimetric Luminescent pH Sensing
Authors: Xia Tifeng , Cui Yuanjing , Yang Yu , Qian Guodong
Published: November 2016

A strategy utilizing mixed‐lanthanide metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for self‐referencing and colorimetric luminescent pH sensing has been developed. The mixed‐lanthanide MOFs EuxTb1−xHdpda (x=0.097, 0.205, 0.303, H4dpda=4‐(3,5‐dicarboxyphenyl)pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylic acid) exhibit excellent stability in phosphate buffer solution with pH values varying from 3.90 to 7.50. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the deprotonation of uncoordinated carboxyl groups in ligands results in the elevation of the triplet excited state (T1) energy level of H4dpda, thus increasing the energy transfer probability from the T1 to 5D4 level of Tb3+. As a result, the emission intensity of Tb3+ in EuxTb1−xHdpda increases gradually while that of Eu3+ is almost not changed with the pH varying from 3.90 to 7.50. The intensity ratios of Eu3+ to Tb3+ can be correlated to the pH value, suggesting they are promising self‐referencing luminescent pH sensors. Furthermore, the significant pH‐dependent emission color change enables them to act as a luminescent colorimetric pH sensor for in situ and real‐time pH imaging. Because the energy transfer between the ligand and lanthanide ion can be easily tuned by selecting an appropriate ligand to further optimize the pH response range and sensitivity, such a strategy opens a new perspective for the development of self‐referencing luminescent pH sensors.
Characterization of natural vanilla flavour in foodstuff by HS‐SPME and GC‐C‐IRMS
Authors: Schipilliti Luisa , Bonaccorsi Ivana Lidia , Mondello Luigi
Published: November 2016

Vanillin can be obtained by extraction from the pods of Vanilla (organic vanillin), by synthetic pathways using different precursors (mainly lignin and guaiacol), and by enzymatic bioconversion (biovanillin) from natural precursors, (mainly ferulic acid, eugenol and isoeugenol, and turmeric acid). Based on the origins its commercial value greatly changes. At the same time the European Regulation allows to label food discriminating between the sources of the ingredient indicating the term ‘natural’ even if the ingredient is obtained by biosynthetic pathways. However from literature it is apparent that the distinction between synthetic and biosynthetic vanillin is not always possible, while the natural one can be easily discriminated, although rarely used. The method here proposed is based on head‐space solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry to determine the carbon isotope ratio (δ13C) of vanillin extracted from vanilla pods, commercial flavoured foodstuff and in vanillin samples of different origins. Isotope fractionation during SPME extraction has been determined based on sample's isotopic composition. The results confirm the literature ones and allow to reveal which biovanillin can be easily characterized and distinguished from the synthetic ones. In most cases it has been possible to evaluate the origin of vanillin used in the different food preparations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Residue‐centric modeling and design of saccharide and glycoconjugate structures
Authors: Labonte Jason W. , Adolf‐Bryfogle Jared , Schief William R. , Gray Jeffrey J.
Published: November 2016

The RosettaCarbohydrate framework is a new tool for modeling a wide variety of saccharide and glycoconjugate structures. This report describes the development of the framework and highlights its applications. The framework integrates with established protocols within the Rosetta modeling and design suite, and it handles the vast complexity and variety of carbohydrate molecules, including branching and sugar modifications. To address challenges of sampling and scoring, RosettaCarbohydrate can sample glycosidic bonds, side‐chain conformations, and ring forms, and it utilizes a glycan‐specific term within its scoring function. Rosetta can work with standard PDB, GLYCAM, and GlycoWorkbench (.gws) file formats. Saccharide residue‐specific chemical information is stored internally, permitting glycoengineering and design. Carbohydrate‐specific applications described herein include virtual glycosylation, loop‐modeling of carbohydrates, and docking of glyco‐ligands to antibodies. Benchmarking data are presented and compared to other studies, demonstrating Rosetta's ability to predict glyco‐ligand binding. The framework expands the tools available to glycoscientists and engineers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Emerging Role of MORC Family Proteins in Cancer Development and Bone Homeostasis
Authors: Hong Guoju , Qiu Heng , Wang Chao , Jadhav Gaurav , Wang Haibin , Tickner Jennifer , He Wei , Xu Jiake
Published: November 2016

Microrchidia (MORC or MORC family CW‐type zinc finger protein), a highly conserved nuclear protein superfamily, is an interesting new player in signaling‐dependent chromatin remodeling and epigenetic regulation. MORC family proteins consist of MORC1, MORC2, MORC3, and MORC4 which display common structural determinants such as CW‐type zinc finger and coiled‐coil domains. They also exhibit unique structural motifs and tissue‐specific expression profiles. MORC1 was first discovered as a key regulator for male meiosis and spermatogenesis. Accumulating biochemical and functional analyses unveil MORC proteins as key regulators for cancer development. More recently, using an ENU mutagenesis mouse model, MORC3 was found to play a role in regulating bone and calcium homeostasis. Here we discuss recent research progress on the emerging role of MORC proteins in cancer development and bone metabolism. Unravelling the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which MORC proteins carry out their functions in a tissue specific manner are important subjects for future investigation. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 928–934, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
General Parity Result and Cycle‐Plus‐Triangles Graphs
Authors: Petrov Fedor
Published: November 2016

We generalize a parity result of Fleishner and Stiebitz that being combined with Alon–Tarsi polynomial method allowed them to prove that a 4‐regular graph formed by a Hamiltonian cycle and several disjoint triangles is always 3‐choosable. Also we show how a version of polynomial method gives slightly more combinatorial information about colorings than direct application of Alon's Combinatorial Nullstellensatz.
A Self‐Report Measure of Productive Thinking in Solving Insight Problems
Authors: Cunningham J. Barton , MacGregor James N.
Published: November 2016

There is broad agreement among executives on the importance of innovation and creativity in organizations. The paper aimed to provide information on the effectiveness of a new cognitive style inventory, the Productive‐Reproductive Thinking Inventory (P‐R), in identifying people with creative problem‐solving potential. Participants completed the P‐R Inventory, Kirton's Adaption‐Innovation Inventory (KAI), the Assimilator‐Explorer Inventory, self‐rating of insight problem‐solving, and a battery of insight problem‐solving tasks under controlled conditions. The P‐R scale was a significant predictor of problem‐solving performance and insight self‐ratings and correlated significantly with KAI and AE scores. In addition, the results supported distinguishing two types of reproductive thinking which are differentially associated with insight performance. The distinction was supported by confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation models. Using controlled conditions may limit the generality of the findings and further research should be carried out in applied settings. The P‐R inventory is short and easily administered and may provide HR professionals with a useful screening tool for assessing creative problem‐solving potential. The measure differs from the KAI in several ways that may offer advantages for creativity researchers in that it is non‐proprietary, based on well‐established psychological constructs, and is more particularly applicable to insight problem‐solving.
A Multi‐target Small Molecule for Targeted Transcriptional Activation of Therapeutically Significant Nervous System Genes
Authors: Wei Yulei , Pandian Ganesh N. , Zou Tingting , Taniguchi Junichi , Sato Shinsuke , Kashiwazaki Gengo , Vaijayanthi Thangavel , Hidaka Takuya , Bando Toshikazu , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: November 2016

An integrated multi‐target small molecule capable of altering dynamic epigenetic and transcription programs associated with the brain and nervous system has versatile applications in the regulation of therapeutic and cell‐fate genes. Recently, we have been constructing targeted epigenetic ON switches by integrating sequence‐specific DNA binding pyrrole‐imidazole polyamides with a potent histone deacetylase inhibitor SAHA. Here, we identified a DNA‐based epigenetic ON switch termed SAHA‐L as the first‐ever multi‐target small molecule capable of inducing transcription programs associated with the human neural system and brain synapses networks in BJ human foreskin fibroblasts and 201B7‐iPS cells. Ingenuity pathway analysis showed that SAHA‐L activates the signaling of synaptic receptors like glutamate and γ‐aminobutyric acid, which are key components of autism spectrum disorders. The long‐term incubation of SAHA‐L in 201B7‐iPS cells induced morphology changes and promoted a neural progenitor state. Our finding suggests that the tunable SAHA‐L could be advanced as a cell‐type‐independent multi‐target small molecule for therapeutic and/or cell‐fate gene modulation.
Fabrication of Ag nanostructures by the systematic control of annealing temperature and duration on GaN (0001) via the solid state dewetting
Authors: Pandey Puran , Kunwar Sundar , Sui Mao , Li Ming‐Yu , Zhang Quanzhen , Lee Jihoon
Published: November 2016

The gradual evolution of Ag nanostructures in terms of the configuration, size, and density of via the solid state dewetting is demonstrated on GaN (0001) by the systematic control of annealing temperature and duration with various Ag film thickness. Upon the annealing between 150 and 700 °C with the 20 nm Ag film, the hillocks, voids, irregular, and round dome shaped Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are fabricated based on various growth mechanisms: i.e., thermal diffusion and sublimation as well as the surface energy minimization. On the other hand, along with the systematic control of annealing duration between 0 and 3600 s with 10 nm Ag film 700 °C, the Ag NPs show gradually decreased size and density based on the concurrent influence of the Ostwald's ripening and sublimation of Ag atoms. The Raman, photoluminescence, and reflectance spectroscopy of the resulting Ag NPs are characterized in accordance with the various morphology evolution of Ag nanostructures.
Role of oxygen vacancies and In‐doping on the sensing performance of ZnO particles
Authors: Montes‐Fonseca F. , Olive‐Méndez S. F. , Holguín‐Momaca J. T. , Alonso‐Núñez G. , Paraguay‐Delgado F.
Published: November 2016

Pure and In‐doped ZnO particles with two morphologies: rods and platelets were synthesized using hydrothermal method and tested for gas sensing. The materials were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Platelets were synthesized with zinc acetate and potassium hydroxide in a ratio 1:3, while rods were obtained for a ratio1:8. As‐synthesized particles do not exhibit any sensing response. The creation of oxygen vacancies, through thermal treatments under reducing atmosphere (Ar:H2), activate the sensing properties. The best sensitivity, upon exposure of CO and propane, was obtained on the In‐doped platelets with large ±(0001) surface area. The value of the contact barrier between particles after the thermal treatment is 164 µeV.
Vocabulary and Reading Performances of Redesignated Fluent English Proficient Students
Authors: Hwang Jin Kyoung , Lawrence Joshua Fahey , Collins Penelope , Snow Catherine
Published: November 2016

In this article, the researchers examined general vocabulary, academic vocabulary, and reading comprehension growth trajectories of adolescent redesignated fluent English proficient (RFEP) students using individual growth modeling analysis. The sample included 1,226 sixth‐ to eighth‐grade RFEP students from six middle schools in an urban school district in California. Students completed up to four waves of reading‐related measures during a 2‐year time period. Findings indicate that (a) students’ scores on vocabulary and reading assessments were positively correlated with their years since redesignation and (b) students on average showed growth over time on all outcomes and the rate of growth did not differ by their years since redesignation. The results suggest that recently redesignated students may need sustained support to ensure continued progress in their English language development.