bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation, characterization and expression analysis of a nutritionally enhanced α-prolamin gene and protein during developing spikes of finger millet (Eleusine coracana)
Authors: Kumar Lalan , Pandey Dinesh , Kumar Anil
Published: September 2017

In the present study a combination of BLAST mediated homology search and 3′ RACE was utilized to isolate the full-length gene of Eleusine coracana alpha prolamin (Ec-α-prolamin) from finger millet. Phylogenetic analysis of Ec-α-prolamin along with related prolamin genes of different cereals and millets shows the clustering of Ec-α-prolamin in a separate group. Secondary structure prediction reveals 59.4% alpha helix structure, a structural hallmark of Ec-α-prolamin. Besides this, the protein also possesses a balanced proportion of all essential amino acids. Expression analysis based on qPCR shows increased accumulation of α-prolamin transcripts in developing grains of finger millet until attainment of seed maturity. Western blotting, using a monospecific anti-α-prolamin antibody, further confirmed the expression of a 22 kDa band in the S3 and S4 stages of developing spikes. The heterologous expression of isolated full-length Ec-α-prolamin could be potentially harnessed for making nutritionally enhanced functional food products and value-added industrial products.
Nothing to Lose: Charitable Donations as Incentives in Risk Preference Measurement
Authors: Rogers Jonathan
Published: September 2017

Researchers are interested in running experiments in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), which often include financially incentivized measures of risk preferences. However, it can be that gambling is forbidden and these measures may either be illegal or result in non-random refusal of subjects to participate. If individuals derive utility from warm glow or otherwise enjoy giving, then risk preferences apply to that utility too. Even in the absence of personal stakes, if risk will be borne by others, warm glow will lead subjects to behave in a manner consistent with their preferences over risk for private consumption. I examine how paid risk elicitation mechanisms correlate with measures incentivized by charitable contributions. Results suggest that subjects behave almost identically under paid and charitable stakes. Charitable measures may provide behavioral means by which to measure risk preferences, in populations where gambling is forbidden.
Innovation in der psychiatrischen Versorgung
Authors: Richter Dirk
Published: September 2017

Zusammenfassung. Der nachfolgende Beitrag beschreibt, welchen Beitrag die Pflege zum Wandel der psychiatrischen Versorgung in den letzten Jahrzehnten geleistet hat. Dieser Wandel wurde von einem Wertewandel begleitet, welcher die Vermeidung von Aggression und Zwang, den Aufbau sozialer Beziehungen sowie die Selbstbestimmung der Nutzenden betonte. Die Ausführungen basieren auf einem Vortrag, den der Verfasser am Kongress des Schweizer Berufsverbands für Pflegefachfrauen und Pflegefachmänner (SBK) im Mai 2017 gehalten hat.
Adherence Therapie in der Forensik – geht dies?
Authors: Schulz Michael , Löhr Michael , Stuckmann Werner
Published: September 2017

Zusammenfassung. Adherence meint eine gemeinsame Entscheidungsfindung zwischen Professionellen und Patienten im Hinblick auf langfristige Therapieentscheidungen (Gray et al., 2002). Damit grenzt sich dieser Begriff vom Begriff der Compliance ab, der vor allem im Hinblick auf chronische Krankheitsverläufe als zu paternalistisch angesehen wird (Schulz, 2009; Deegan & Drake, 2006; WHO, 2003).
Erratum: Cystatin SN inhibits auranofin-induced cell death by autophagic induction and ROS regulation via glutathione reductase activity in colorectal cancer
Authors: Oh Byung Moo , Lee Seon-Jin , Cho Hee Jun , Park Yun Sun , Kim Jong-Tae , Yoon Suk Ran , Lee Sang Chul , Lim Jong-Seok , Kim Bo-Yeon , Choe Yong-Kyung , Lee Hee Gu
Published: September 2017

Correction to: Cell Death and Disease (2017) 8, e2682. doi:10.1038/cddis.2017.100; published online 16 March 2017 In the version of this article originally published, the following affiliation for Sang Chul Lee was incorrectly listed as 3 instead of 1. The correct affiliations are listed below: Byung Moo Oh1,2,5, Seon-Jin Lee1,2,5, Hee Jun Cho1, Yun Sun Park1, Jong-Tae Kim1, Suk Ran Yoon1, Sang Chul Lee1, Jong-Seok Lim3, Bo-Yeon Kim4, Yong-Kyung Choe1 and Hee Gu Lee1,2
Automatic and adaptive heterogeneous refractive index compensation for light-sheet microscopy
Authors: Ryan Duncan P. , Gould Elizabeth A. , Seedorf Gregory J. , Masihzadeh Omid , Abman Steven H. , Vijayaraghavan Sukumar , Macklin Wendy B. , Restrepo Diego , Shepherd Douglas P.
Published: September 2017

Optical tissue clearing has revolutionized researchers’ ability to perform fluorescent measurements of molecules, cells, and structures within intact tissue. One common complication to all optically cleared tissue is a spatially heterogeneous refractive index, leading to light scattering and first-order defocus. We designed C-DSLM (cleared tissue digital scanned light-sheet microscopy) as a low-cost method intended to automatically generate in-focus images of cleared tissue. We demonstrate the flexibility and power of C-DSLM by quantifying fluorescent features in tissue from multiple animal models using refractive index matched and mismatched microscope objectives. This includes a unique measurement of myelin tracks within intact tissue using an endogenous fluorescent reporter where typical clearing approaches render such structures difficult to image. For all measurements, we provide independent verification using standard serial tissue sectioning and quantification methods. Paired with advancements in volumetric image processing, C-DSLM provides a robust methodology to quantify sub-micron features within large tissue sections.
Dipole-field-assisted charge extraction in metal-perovskite-metal back-contact solar cells
Authors: Lin Xiongfeng , Jumabekov Askhat N. , Lal Niraj N. , Pascoe Alexander R. , Gómez Daniel E. , Duffy Noel W. , Chesman Anthony S. R. , Sears Kallista , Fournier Maxime , Zhang Yupeng , Bao Qiaoliang , Cheng Yi-Bing , Spiccia Leone , Bach Udo
Published: September 2017

Hybrid organic-inorganic halide perovskites are low-cost solution-processable solar cell materials with photovoltaic properties that rival those of crystalline silicon. The perovskite films are typically sandwiched between thin layers of hole and electron transport materials, which efficiently extract photogenerated charges. This affords high-energy conversion efficiencies but results in significant performance and fabrication challenges. Herein we present a simple charge transport layer-free perovskite solar cell, comprising only a perovskite layer with two interdigitated gold back-contacts. Charge extraction is achieved via self-assembled monolayers and their associated dipole fields at the metal-perovskite interface. Photovoltages of ~600 mV generated by self-assembled molecular monolayer modified perovskite solar cells are equivalent to the built-in potential generated by individual dipole layers. Efficient charge extraction results in photocurrents of up to 12.1 mA cm−2 under simulated sunlight, despite a large electrode spacing.
Hyperhomocysteinemia Alters Retinal Endothelial Cells Barrier Function and Angiogenic Potential via Activation of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Mohamed Riyaz , Sharma Isha , Ibrahim Ahmed S. , Saleh Heba , Elsherbiny Nehal M. , Fulzele Sadanand , Elmasry Khaled , Smith Sylvia B. , Al-Shabrawey Mohamed , Tawfik Amany
Published: September 2017

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is associated with several human visual disorders, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) is linked to vision loss in DR and AMD. Our previous work revealed that HHcy altered BRB in retinal endothelial cells in vivo. Here we hypothesize that homocysteine (Hcy) alters retinal endothelial cell barrier function and angiogenic potential via activation of oxidative stress. Human retinal endothelial cells (HRECs) treated with and without different concentrations of Hcy showed a reduction of tight junction protein expression, increased FITC dextran leakage, decreased transcellular electrical resistance and increased angiogenic potential. In addition, HRECs treated with Hcy showed increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The anti-oxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) reduced ROS formation and decreased FITC-dextran leakage in Hcy treated HRECs. A mouse model of HHcy, in which cystathionine-β-synthase is deficient (cbs−/−), was evaluated for oxidative stress by dichlolorofluorescein (DCF), dihydroethidium (DHE) staining. There was a marked increase in ROS production and augmented GSH reductase and antioxidant regulator NRF2 activity, but decreased antioxidant gene expression in retinas of hyperhomocysteinemic mice. Our results suggest activation of oxidative stress as a possible mechanism of HHcy induced retinal endothelial cell dysfunction.
Integrated analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression profiles during the sex-differentiation sensitive period in oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense
Authors: Jin Shubo , Fu Hongtuo , Sun Shengming , Jiang Sufei , Xiong Yiwei , Gong Yongsheng , Qiao Hui , Zhang Wenyi , Wu Yan
Published: September 2017

Male oriental river prawns (Macrobrachium nipponense) grow faster than females, and therefore, reach larger sizes by harvest time. Histological observations have indicated that the sex-differentiation sensitive period (which includes the formation of the androgenic gland, the testis, and the ovary) is from post-larvae (PL) developmental stage for M. nipponense. In this study, we prepared four microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA libraries using samples collected from sex-differentiation sensitive period (PL7 to PL16) to perform RNA-sequencing for identifying sex-related candidate miRNAs, genes, and metabolic pathways. A total of nine intersection miRNAs were identified, of which three were highly expressed in the androgenic gland, and their expression was verified by quantitative Real-Time PCR (qPCR). These three miRNAs and their 11 predicted target genes may be strong candidates for sex-related miRNAs and sex-related genes in M. nipponense. Five vital sex-related metabolic pathways were also identified that may regulate other sex-differentiation and sex-determination mechanisms. Finding of the study provide important insights to enhance our understanding on sex-differentiation and sex-determination mechanisms for M. nipponense.
Formation and purification of tailored liposomes for drug delivery using a module-based micro continuous-flow system
Authors: Dimov Nikolay , Kastner Elisabeth , Hussain Maryam , Perrie Yvonne , Szita Nicolas
Published: September 2017

Liposomes are lipid based bilayer vesicles that can encapsulate, deliver and release low-soluble drugs and small molecules to a specific target site in the body. They are currently exploited in several nanomedicine formulations. However, their development and application is still limited by expensive and time-consuming process development and production methods. Therefore, to exploit these systems more effectively and support the rapid translation of new liposomal nanomedicines from bench to bedside, new cost-effective and scalable production methods are needed. We present a continuous process flow system for the preparation, modification and purification of liposomes which offers lab-on-chip scale production. The system was evaluated for a range of small vesicles (below 300 nm) varying in lipid composition, size and charge; it offers effective and rapid nanomedicine purification with high lipid recovery (> 98%) combined with effective removal of non-entrapped drug (propofol >95% reduction of non-entrapped drug present) or protein (ovalbumin >90% reduction of OVA present) and organic solvent (ethanol >95% reduction) in less than 4 minutes. The key advantages of using this bench-top, rapid, process development tool are the flexible operating conditions, interchangeable membranes and scalable high-throughput yields, thereby offering simultaneous manufacturing and purification of nanoparticles with tailored surface attributes.
Potential bias of daily soil CO2 efflux estimates due to sampling time
Authors: Cueva Alejandro , Bullock Stephen H. , López-Reyes Eulogio , Vargas Rodrigo
Published: September 2017

Soil respiration (Rs) has been usually measured during daylight hours using manual chambers. This approach assumes that measurements made during a typical time interval (e.g., 9 to 11 am) represent the mean daily value; locally, this may not always be correct and could result in systematic bias of daily and annual Rs budgets. We propose a simple method, based on the temporal stability concept, to determine the most appropriate time of the day for manual measurements to capture a representative mean daily Rs value. We introduce a correction factor to adjust for biases due to non-optimally timed sampling. This approach was tested in a semiarid shrubland using 24 hr campaigns using two treatments: trenched plots and plots with shrubs. In general, we found optimum times were at night and potential biases ranged from −29 to + 40% in relation to the 24 hr mean of Rs, especially in trenched plots. The degree of bias varied between treatments and seasons, having a greater influence during the wet season when efflux was high than during the dry season when efflux was low. This study proposes a framework for improving local Rs estimates that informs how to decrease temporal uncertainties in upscaling to the annual total.
Controllable Electrochromic Polyamide Film and Device Produced by Facile Ultrasonic Spray-coating
Authors: Liu Huan-Shen , Chang Wei-Chieh , Chou Chin-Yen , Pan Bo-Cheng , Chou Yi-Shan , Liou Guey-Sheng , Liu Cheng-Liang
Published: September 2017

Thermally stable TPA-OMe polyamide films with high transmittance modulation in response to applied potential are formed by facile ultrasonic spray-coating. Four processing conditions (Film A, Film B, Film C and Film D) through tuning both solution concentrations and deposition temperatures can be utilized for the formation of wet and dry deposited films with two film thickness intervals. The electrochromic results show that the dry deposited rough films at higher deposition temperature generally reveal a faster electrochromic response, lower charge requirements (Q) and less conspicuous color changes (smaller optical density change (ΔOD) and lightness change (ΔL*)) during the oxidation process as compared to the wet deposited smooth films at lower deposition temperature. Moreover, thicker electrochromic films from increased solution concentration exhibit more obvious changes between coloration and bleaching transition. All these four polyamide films display colorless-to-turquoise electrochromic switching with good redox stability. The large scale patterned electrochromic film and its application for assembled device (10 × 10 cm2 in size) are also produced and reversibly operated for color changes. These represent a major solution-processing technique produced by ultrasonic spray-coating method towards scalable and cost-effective production, allowing more freedoms to facilitate the designed electrochromic devices as required.
Towards an ultra-rapid smartphone- connected test for infectious diseases
Authors: Turbé Valérian , Gray Eleanor R. , Lawson Victoria E. , Nastouli Eleni , Brookes Jennifer C. , Weiss Robin A. , Pillay Deenan , Emery Vincent C. , Verrips C. Theo , Yatsuda Hiromi , Athey Dale , McKendry Rachel A.
Published: September 2017

The development is reported of an ultra-rapid, point-of-care diagnostic device which harnesses surface acoustic wave (SAW) biochips, to detect HIV in a finger prick of blood within 10 seconds (sample-in-result-out). The disposable quartz biochip, based on microelectronic components found in every consumer smartphone, is extremely fast because no complex labelling, amplification or wash steps are needed. A pocket-sized control box reads out the SAW signal and displays results electronically. High analytical sensitivity and specificity are found with model and real patient blood samples. The findings presented here open up the potential of consumer electronics to cut lengthy test waiting times, giving patients on the spot access to potentially life-saving treatment and supporting more timely public health interventions to prevent disease transmission.
Atomic Scale Formation Mechanism of Edge Dislocation Relieving Lattice Strain in a GeSi overlayer on Si(001)
Authors: Maras E. , Pizzagalli L. , Ala-Nissila T. , Jónsson H.
Published: September 2017

Understanding how edge misfit dislocations (MDs) form in a GeSi/Si(001) film has been a long standing issue. The challenge is to find a mechanism accounting for the presence of these dislocations at the interface since they are not mobile and cannot nucleate at the surface and glide towards the interface. Furthermore, experiments can hardly detect the nucleation and early stages of growth because of the short time scale involved. Here we present the first semi-quantitative atomistic calculation of the formation of edge dislocations in such films. We use a global optimization method and density functional theory calculations, combined with computations using potential energy functions to identify the best mechanisms. We show that those previously suggested are relevant only for a low film strain and we propose a new mechanism which accounts for the formation of edge dislocations at high film strain. In this one, a 60° MD nucleates as a “split” half-loop with two branches gliding on different planes. One branch belongs to the glide plane of a complementary 60° MD and therefore strongly favors the formation of the complementary MD which is immediately combined with the first MD to form an edge MD.
In search of features that constitute an “enriched environment” in humans: Associations between geographical properties and brain structure
Authors: Kühn Simone , Düzel Sandra , Eibich Peter , Krekel Christian , Wüstemann Henry , Kolbe Jens , Martensson Johan , Goebel Jan , Gallinat Jürgen , Wagner Gert G. , Lindenberger Ulman
Published: September 2017

Enriched environments elicit brain plasticity in animals. In humans it is unclear which environment is enriching. Living in a city has been associated with increased amygdala activity in a stress paradigm, and being brought up in a city with increased pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pACC) activity. We set out to identify geographical characteristics that constitute an enriched environment affecting the human brain. We used structural equation modelling on 341 older adults to establish three latent brain factors (amygdala, pACC and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)) to test the effects of forest, urban green, water and wasteland around the home address. Our results reveal a significant positive association between the coverage of forest and amygdala integrity. We conclude that forests may have salutogenic effects on the integrity of the amygdala. Since cross-sectional data does not allow causal inference it could also be that individuals with high structural integrity choose to live closer to forest.
High resolution analysis of rare copy number variants in patients with autism spectrum disorder from Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chia-Hsiang , Chen Hsin-I. , Chien Wei-Hsien , Li Ling-Hui , Wu Yu-Yu , Chiu Yen-Nan , Tsai Wen-Che , Gau Susan Shur-Fen
Published: September 2017

Rare genomic copy number variations (CNVs) (frequency <1%) contribute a part to the genetic underpinnings of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The study aimed to understand the scope of rare CNV in Taiwanese patients with ASD. We conducted a genome-wide CNV screening of 335 ASD patients (299 males, 36 females) from Taiwan using Affymetrix Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 and compared the incidence of rare CNV with that of 1093 control subjects (525 males, 568 females). We found a significantly increased global burden of rare CNVs in the ASD group compared to the controls as a whole or when the rare CNVs were classified by the size and types of CNV. Further analysis confirmed the presence of several rare CNVs at regions strongly associated with ASD as reported in the literature in our sample. Additionally, we detected several new private pathogenic CNVs in our samples and five patients carrying two pathogenic CNVs. Our data indicate that rare genomic CNVs contribute a part to the genetic landscape of our ASD patients. These CNVs are highly heterogeneous, and the clinical interpretation of the pathogenic CNVs of ASD is not straightforward in consideration of the incomplete penetrance, varied expressivity, and individual genetic background.
Accuracy and Reliability of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Linear and Volumetric Mandibular Condyle Measurements. A Human Cadaver Study
Authors: García-Sanz Verónica , Bellot-Arcís Carlos , Hernández Virginia , Serrano-Sánchez Pedro , Guarinos Juan , Paredes-Gallardo Vanessa
Published: September 2017

The accuracy of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) on linear and volumetric measurements on condyles has only been assessed on dry skulls. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and accuracy of linear and volumetric measurements of mandibular condyles in the presence of soft tissues using CBCT. Six embalmed cadaver heads were used. CBCT scans were taken, followed by the extraction of the condyles. The water displacement technique was used to calculate the volumes of the condyles and three linear measurements were made using a digital caliper, these measurements serving as the gold standard. Surface models of the condyles were obtained using a 3D scanner, and superimposed onto the CBCT images. Condyles were isolated on the CBCT render volume using the surface models as reference and volumes were measured. Linear measurements were made on CBCT slices. The CBCT method was found to be reliable for both volumetric and linear measurements (CV < 3%; CCI > 0.90). Highly accurate values were obtained for the three linear measurements and volume. CBCT is a reliable and accurate method for taking volumetric and linear measurements on mandibular condyles in the presence of soft tissue, and so a valid tool for clinical diagnosis.
Full space device optimization for solar cells
Authors: Baloch Ahmer A. B. , Aly Shahzada P. , Hossain Mohammad I. , El-Mellouhi Fedwa , Tabet Nouar , Alharbi Fahhad H.
Published: September 2017

Advances in computational materials have paved a way to design efficient solar cells by identifying the optimal properties of the device layers. Conventionally, the device optimization has been governed by single or double descriptors for an individual layer; mostly the absorbing layer. However, the performance of the device depends collectively on all the properties of the material and the geometry of each layer in the cell. To address this issue of multi-property optimization and to avoid the paradigm of reoccurring materials in the solar cell field, a full space material-independent optimization approach is developed and presented in this paper. The method is employed to obtain an optimized material data set for maximum efficiency and for targeted functionality for each layer. To ensure the robustness of the method, two cases are studied; namely perovskite solar cells device optimization and cadmium-free CIGS solar cell. The implementation determines the desirable optoelectronic properties of transport mediums and contacts that can maximize the efficiency for both cases. The resulted data sets of material properties can be matched with those in materials databases or by further microscopic material design. Moreover, the presented multi-property optimization framework can be extended to design any solid-state device.
Comparative population pharmacokinetics and absolute oral bioavailability of COX-2 selective inhibitors celecoxib, mavacoxib and meloxicam in cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus)
Authors: Dhondt Laura , Devreese Mathias , Croubels Siska , De Baere Siegrid , Haesendonck Roel , Goessens Tess , Gehring Ronette , De Backer Patrick , Antonissen Gunther
Published: September 2017

Selective COX-2 inhibitors are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which directly target cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme mainly responsible for induction of inflammation, pyresis and pain. Although commonly used in avian medicine, limited pharmacokinetic (PK) data in domestic and companion birds are available. In this study, PK parameters and absolute oral bioavailability expressed as percentage (F%) of celecoxib (10 mg/kg BW), mavacoxib (4 mg/kg BW) and meloxicam (1 mg/kg BW) were determined following single oral (PO) and intravenous (IV) administration to cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus). The drugs were quantified in plasma by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Data were processed using the nonlinear mixed effects (NLME) approach. In contrast to celecoxib (T1/2el = 0.88 h) and meloxicam (T1/2el = 0.90 h), mavacoxib has a prolonged elimination half-life (T1/2el = 135 h) following oral administration of a commercial formulation (CF). High to complete oral absorption was observed following oral administration of celecoxib (F% = 56–110%) and mavacoxib (F% = 111–113%), CF and standard solutions, respectively. In contrast, the F% of meloxicam was low (F% = 11%). Based on the presented results, a less frequent dosing of mavacoxib is proposed compared to celecoxib and meloxicam. However, pharmacodynamic and safety studies are necessary to further investigate the use of these NSAIDs in cockatiels.
Comparison of perfusion models for quantitative T1 weighted DCE-MRI of rectal cancer
Authors: Gaa Tanja , Neumann Wiebke , Sudarski Sonja , Attenberger Ulrike I. , Schönberg Stefan O. , Schad Lothar R. , Zöllner Frank G.
Published: September 2017

In this work, the two compartment exchange model and two compartment uptake model were applied to obtain quantitative perfusion parameters in rectum carcinoma and the results were compared to those obtained by the deconvolution algorithm. Eighteen patients with newly diagnosed rectal carcinoma underwent 3 T MRI of the pelvis including a T1 weighted dynamic contrastenhanced (DCE) protocol before treatment. Mean values for Plasma Flow (PF), Plasma Volume (PV) and Mean Transit Time (MTT) were obtained for all three approaches and visualized in parameter cards. For the two compartment models, Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and $${{\boldsymbol{\chi }}}^{{\bf{2}}}$$

χ

2

were calculated. Perfusion parameters determined with the compartment models show results in accordance with previous studies focusing on rectal cancer DCE-CT (PF2CX = 68 ± 44 ml/100 ml/min, PF2CU = 55 ± 36 ml/100 ml/min) with similar fit quality (AIC:169 ± 81/179 ± 77, $${{\boldsymbol{\chi }}}^{{\bf{2}}}$$

χ

2

:10 ± 12/9 ± 10). Values for PF are overestimated whereas PV and MTT are underestimated compared to results of the deconvolution algorithm. Significant differences were found among all models for perfusion parameters as well as between the AIC and $${{\boldsymbol{\chi }}}^{{\bf{2}}}$$

χ

2

values. Quantitative perfusion parameters are dependent on the chosen tracer kinetic model. According to the obtained parameters, all approaches seem capable of providing quantitative perfusion values in DCE-MRI of rectal cancer.
A longitudinal analysis of the vaginal microbiota and vaginal immune mediators in women from sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Jespers Vicky , Kyongo Jordan , Joseph Sarah , Hardy Liselotte , Cools Piet , Crucitti Tania , Mwaura Mary , Ndayisaba Gilles , Delany-Moretlwe Sinead , Buyze Jozefien , Vanham Guido , van de Wijgert Janneke H. H. M.
Published: September 2017

In cross-sectional studies increased vaginal bacterial diversity has been associated with vaginal inflammation which can be detrimental for health. We describe longitudinal changes at 5 visits over 8 weeks in vaginal microbiota and immune mediators in African women. Women (N = 40) with a normal Nugent score at all visits had a stable lactobacilli dominated microbiota with prevailing Lactobacillus iners. Presence of prostate-specific antigen (proxy for recent sex) and being amenorrhoeic (due to progestin-injectable use), but not recent vaginal cleansing, were significantly associated with microbiota diversity and inflammation (controlled for menstrual cycle and other confounders). Women (N = 40) with incident bacterial vaginosis (Nugent 7–10) had significantly lower concentrations of lactobacilli and higher concentrations of Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Prevotella bivia, at the incident visit and when concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-12p70) were increased and IP-10 and elafin were decreased. A higher ‘composite-qPCR vaginal-health-score’ was directly associated with decreased concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-8, IL-12(p70)) and increased IP-10. This longitudinal study confirms the inflammatory nature of vaginal dysbiosis and its association with recent vaginal sex and progestin-injectable use. A potential role for proinflammatory mediators and IP-10 in combination with the vaginal-health-score as predictive biomarkers for vaginal dysbiosis merits further investigation.
Serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol when used with fasting plasma glucose improves the efficiency of diabetes screening in a Chinese population
Authors: Ying Lingwen , He Xingxing , Ma Xiaojing , Shen Yun , Su Hang , Peng Jiahui , Wang Yufei , Bao Yuqian , Zhou Jian , Jia Weiping
Published: September 2017

Serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) levels can not only accurately reflect the mean blood glucose over the previous 1–2 weeks in diabetic patients but also offers the advantage of representing postprandial glucose. To evaluate the clinical significance of 1,5-AG in diabetes detection, especially when used in combination with fasting plasma glucose (FPG), a total of 3098 participants at high risk for diabetes (1467 men, 1631 women) were enrolled. A total of 1471 (47.5%) participants were diagnosed with diabetes, and the mean 1,5-AG level in the diabetic group was significantly lower than that in non-diabetic group [12.5 (7.8–17.5) μg/mL vs. 20.5 (15.3–26.4) μg/mL, P < 0.001]. The optimal cut-off point was 15.9 μg/mL, for which the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were 69.2%, 72.3%, and 0.781, respectively. For the combination of FPG and 1,5-AG, the sensitivity, specificity, and AUC improved to 82.5%, 83.5%, and 0.912, respectively. This method helped 75.8% of the participants avoid an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), reducing the need to carry out the OGTT by 43.9% compared to the use of the FPG criterion only. In conclusion, the addition of FPG to serum 1,5-AG improves the efficiency of diabetes screening in the Chinese population.
Filtering effect of temporal niche fluctuation and amplitude of environmental variations on the trait-related flowering patterns: lesson from sub-Mediterranean grasslands
Authors: Catorci Andrea , Piermarteri Karina , Penksza Károly , Házi Judit , Tardella Federico Maria
Published: September 2017

Timing of flowering is a critical component of community assembly, but how plant traits respond to heterogeneity of resources has been identified mostly through observations of spatial variations. Thus, we performed a trait-based phenological study in sub-Mediterranean grasslands to assess the importance of temporal variation of resources in the species assemblage processes. We found that early flowering species have traits allowing for slow resource acquisition and storage but rapid growth rate. Instead, mid- and late-flowering species exhibited sets of strategies devoted to minimizing water loss by evapotranspiration or aimed at maximizing the species’ competitive ability, thanks to slow growth rate and more efficient resource acquisition, conservation and use. Our findings were consistent with the fluctuation niche theory. We observed that the amplitude of the environmental fluctuations influences the type and number of strategies positively filtered by the system. In fact, in the most productive grasslands, we observed the highest number of indicator trait states reflecting strategies devoted to the storage of resources and competition for light. Results seem also indicate that temporal variation of resources plays a role in trait differentiation and richness within a plant community, filtering traits composition of grasslands in the same direction, as formerly proved for spatial heterogeneity of resources.
Laser-Plasma Driven Synthesis of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Barberio M. , Antici P.
Published: September 2017

In this paper we introduce a laser-plasma driven method for the production of carbon based nanomaterials and in particular bi- and few-layers of Graphene. This is obtained by using laser-plasma exfoliation of amorphous Graphite in a liquid solution, employing a laser with energy in the order of 0.5 J/mm2. Raman and XPS analysis of a carbon colloidal performed at different irradiation stages indicate the formation of Graphene multilayers with an increasing number of layers: the amount of layers varies from a monolayer obtained in the first few seconds of the laser irradiation, up to two layers obtained after 10 s, and finally to Graphite and amorphous carbon obtained after 40 s of irradiation. The obtained colloidals are pure, without any presence of impurities or Graphene oxides, and can easily be deposited onto large surfaces (in the order of cm2) for being characterized or for being used in diverse applications.
Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus immunotherapy changes the T-regulatory cell activity
Authors: Gonzalez M. , Doña I. , Palomares F. , Campo P. , Rodriguez M. J. , Rondon C. , Gomez F. , Fernandez T. D. , Perkins J. R. , Escribese M. M. , Torres M. J. , Mayorga C.
Published: September 2017

Subcutaneous specific immunotherapy (SCIT) has been shown to modify theDermatophagoides pteronissinus(DP) allergic response, characterized by generation of Treg cells. However, studies have reported no changes in the proportion of Treg cells after immunotherapy, indicating that the effects may be due to modifications in their regulatory activities. We aimed to determine whether Tregs generated by DP-SCIT can switch the allergic response to tolerant and study the involvement of suppressive cytokines on it. Twenty-four DP-allergic rhinitis patients were recruited, 16 treated with DP-SCIT and 8 untreated. Treg and T effector cells were isolated before and after DP-SCIT, and cocultured in different combinations with α-IL-10, α-TGF-β blocking antibodies and nDer p 1. Treg cells after DP-SCIT increased Th1 and decreased Th2 and Th9 proliferation. Similarly, they increased IL-10 and decreased IL-4 and IL-9-producing cells. α-IL-10 affected the activity of Treg cells obtained after DP-SCIT only. Finally, DP-specific IgG4 levels, Treg percentage and IL-10 production were correlated after DP-SCIT. These results demonstrate that DP-SCIT induces Treg cells with different suppressive activities. These changes could be mediated by IL-10 production and appear to play an important role in the induction of the tolerance response leading to a clinical improvement of symptoms.
Correlation between social proximity and mobility similarity
Authors: Fan Chao , Liu Yiding , Huang Junming , Rong Zhihai , Zhou Tao
Published: September 2017

Human behaviors exhibit ubiquitous correlations in many aspects, such as individual and collective levels, temporal and spatial dimensions, content, social and geographical layers. With rich Internet data of online behaviors becoming available, it attracts academic interests to explore human mobility similarity from the perspective of social network proximity. Existent analysis shows a strong correlation between online social proximity and offline mobility similarity, namely, mobile records between friends are significantly more similar than between strangers, and those between friends with common neighbors are even more similar. We argue the importance of the number and diversity of common friends, with a counter intuitive finding that the number of common friends has no positive impact on mobility similarity while the diversity plays a key role, disagreeing with previous studies. Our analysis provides a novel view for better understanding the coupling between human online and offline behaviors, and will help model and predict human behaviors based on social proximity.
Pathogenesis of Lethal Aspiration Pneumonia in Mecp2-null Mouse Model for Rett Syndrome
Authors: Kida Hiroshi , Takahashi Tomoyuki , Nakamura Yuki , Kinoshita Takashi , Hara Munetsugu , Okamoto Masaki , Okayama Satoko , Nakamura Keiichiro , Kosai Ken-ichiro , Taniwaki Takayuki , Yamashita Yushiro , Matsuishi Toyojiro
Published: September 2017

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in the gene encoding the transcriptional regulator Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), located on the X chromosome. Many RTT patients have breathing abnormalities, such as apnea and breathing irregularity, and respiratory infection is the most common cause of death in these individuals. Previous studies showed that MeCP2 is highly expressed in the lung, but its role in pulmonary function remains unknown. In this study, we found that MeCP2 deficiency affects pulmonary gene expression and structures. We also found that Mecp2-null mice, which also have breathing problems, often exhibit inflammatory lung injury. These injuries occurred in specific sites in the lung lobes. In addition, polarizable foreign materials were identified in the injured lungs of Mecp2-null mice. These results indicated that aspiration might be a cause of inflammatory lung injury in Mecp2-null mice. On the other hand, MeCP2 deficiency affected the expression of several neuromodulator genes in the lower brainstem. Among them, neuropeptide substance P (SP) immunostaining was reduced in Mecp2-null brainstem. These findings suggest that alteration of SP expression in brainstem may be involved in autonomic dysregulation, and may be one of the causes of aspiration in Mecp2-null mice.
Cytochalasan and Tyrosine-Derived Alkaloids from the Marine Sediment-Derived Fungus Westerdykella dispersa and Their Bioactivities
Authors: Xu Dan , Luo Minghe , Liu Fenglou , Wang Dong , Pang Xuejiao , Zhao Ting , Xu Lulin , Wu Xia , Xia Mingyu , Yang Xiaolong
Published: September 2017

Six new cytochalasans, designated as 18-oxo-19,20-dihydrophomacin C (1), 18-oxo-19-methoxy-19,20- dihydrophomacin C (2), 18-oxo-19-hydroxyl-19,20-dihydrophomacin C (3), 19,20-dihydrophomacin C (4), 19-methoxy-19,20-dihydrophomacin C (5), 19-hydroxyl-19,20-dihydrophomacin C (6), and one new tyrosine-derived alkaloid named as gymnastatin Z (8), together with two known compounds, phomacin B (7) and triticone D (9), were isolated from a solid-substrate fermentation culture of Westerdykella dispersa which was derived from marine sediments. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic analysis using 1D and 2D NMR techniques, and comparison of NMR data to those of known compounds. The anti-bacterial and cytotoxic activities assays of all isolated compounds were evaluated against eight human pathogenic bacteria and five human cancer cell lines, respectively. Compound 8 exhibited moderate activity against B. subtilis with MIC values of 12.5 µg/mL, while compounds 5, 7 and 8 displayed moderate inhibitory activities against five human cancer cell lines (MCF-7, HepG2, A549, HT-29 and SGC-7901), with IC50 values ranging from 25.6 to 83.7 µM.
RORα2 requires LSD1 to enhance tumor progression in breast cancer
Authors: Kim Kyeongkyu , Lee Ji Min , Yu Young Suk , Kim Hyunkyung , Nam Hye Jin , Moon Hyeong-Gon , Noh Dong-Young , Kim Keun Il , Fang Sungsoon , Baek Sung Hee
Published: September 2017

Retinoic acid-related orphan receptor α (RORα) regulates diverse physiological processes, including inflammatory responses, lipid metabolism, circadian rhythm, and cancer biology. RORα has four different isoforms which have distinct N-terminal domains but share identical DNA binding domain and ligand binding domain in human. However, lack of specific antibody against each RORα isoform makes biochemical studies on each RORα isoform remain unclear. Here, we generate RORα2-specific antibody and characterize the role of RORα2 in promoting tumor progression in breast cancer. RORα2 requires lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1/KDM1A) as a coactivator for transcriptional activation of RORα2 target genes, exemplified by CTNND1. Intriguingly, RORα2 and LSD1 protein levels are dramatically elevated in human breast cancer specimens compared to normal counterparts. Taken together, our studies indicate that LSD1-mediated RORα2 transcriptional activity is important to promote tumor cell migration in human breast cancer as well as breast cancer cell lines. Therefore, our data establish that suppression of LSD1-mediated RORα2 transcriptional activity may be potent therapeutic strategy to attenuate tumor cell migration in human breast cancer.
Growth of Epitaxial ZnSnxGe1−xN2 Alloys by MBE
Authors: Shing Amanda M. , Tolstova Yulia , Lewis Nathan S. , Atwater Harry A.
Published: September 2017

ZnSnxGe1−xN2 alloys are chemically miscible semiconductor compounds with potential application as earth-abundant alternatives to InxGa1−xN. Preparation of ZnSnxGe1−xN2 thin-films by reactive RF sputter deposition yield low-mobility, nanocrystalline films. In contrast, the growth of ZnSnxGe1−xN2 films by molecular-beam epitaxy (MBE) on c-plane sapphire and GaN templates is described herein. Epitaxial films exhibited 3D growth on sapphire and 2D single-crystal quality on GaN, exhibiting substantial improvements in epitaxy and crystallinity relative to nanocrystalline sputtered films. Films on sapphire were n-type with electronic mobilities as high as 18 cm2 V−1 s−1, an order of magnitude greater than the 2 cm2 V−1 s−1 average mobility observed in this work for sputtered films. Mobility differences potentially arise from strain or surface effects originating from growth techniques, or from differences in film thicknesses. In general, MBE growth has provided desired improvements in electronic mobility, epitaxy, and crystal quality that provide encouragement for the continued study of ZnSnxGe1−xN2 alloys.
Ion Solvation and Transport in Ionic Liquids and Ionogels
Authors: Varela L. M. , López-Lago E. , Cabeza O.
Published: September 2017

In this work, we present a critical review of the state of the art of ionic solvation and transport in the dense ionic environments of ionic liquids and ionogels, as well as some novel results. Firstly, ionic liquid–gel transitions, specifically those induced by water addition (hydrogels) are briefly reviewed and some results for the imidazolium alkyl sulphates presented. Later on, the specific features of solvation of molecular species and added ions in these designer amphiphilically nanostructured solvents are systematically revised. These solutes are selectively placed in the nanodomains of the bulk solvent depending on their relative solvophobicity degree, which is the reason behind the versatility of these liquids for dissolving a huge amount of substances if appropriately tuned. Moreover, we present results on solvation of alkali and alkali earth metal salts, as well as for transition metals. The formation of coordination complexes – the phenomenon behind properties such as the appearance of thermochromic behaviour, which, among others, grants the well-known label of smart materials to these designer solvents – is also specifically treated, as well as the solution of nanoparticles in ionic liquids. In connection with the transport properties concerned, the mechanisms of charge transport are analysed in both the liquid and the gel phases, considering explicitly the pseudo-lattice theory to understand the physics of the giant conductivity increases upon doping with molecular cosolvents.
Recognition-based Smart Ionic Liquids
Authors: Chang Yi-Pin , Chu Yen-Ho
Published: September 2017

Recognition-based ionic liquids are capable of extracting biomolecules quantitatively from the aqueous phase into the organic ionic liquid phase. By exploiting the chemically tunable nature of the “designer solvents”, a series of bicyclic imidazolium, crowned 1,2,3-triazolium and bicyclic 1,2,3-triazolium ionic liquids were developed for the partitioning of fluorescent protein, myoglobin, cytochrome c, and arginine-, histidine-, and lysine-containing peptides. These chemoselective binding interactions were based on the biomolecular recognition between peptides/proteins and functional ionic liquids. The chemical synthesis and affinity extraction of this one-of-a-kind biosensing platform will be described in this chapter.
Efficient hydrogen production from MIL-53(Fe) catalyst-modified Mo:BiVO4 photoelectrodes
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Dong Guojun , Wang Lei , Zhang Yajun , Ding Yong , Bi Yingpu
Published: September 2017

Herein, we demonstrated that metal organic framework MIL-53(Fe) could serve as an efficient hole-transfer co-catalyst to significantly improve the PEC performance of BiVO4 photoanodes toward water oxidation under solar irradiation, which is much higher than that of the traditional FeOOH co-catalyst under the same conditions.
Experimentally validated mathematical model of analyte uptake by permeation passive samplers
Authors: Salim F. , Ioannidis M. , Górecki T.
Published: September 2017

A mathematical model describing the sampling process in a permeation-based passive sampler was developed and evaluated numerically.
Effect of cooking and simulated gastrointestinal digestion on the activity of generated bioactive peptides in aged beef meat
Authors: Mora Leticia , Bolumar Tomás , Heres Alejandro , Toldrá Fidel
Published: September 2017

Ageing is widely used in the meat industry to improve tenderness mainly as a result of the breakdown of muscular proteins through the action of endopeptidases during storage time.
Small molecule piperazinyl-benzimidazole antagonists of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor
Authors: Fjellaksel Richard , Boomgaren Marc , Sundset Rune , Haraldsen Ira H. , Hansen Jørn H. , Riss Patrick J.
Published: September 2017

In this communication, we report the synthesis and characterization of a library of small molecule antagonists of the human gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor based upon the 2-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-4-piperazinyl-benzimidazole scaffold via Cu-catalysed azide alkyne cycloaddition.
Correction: A dual-ion electrochemistry deionization system based on AgCl-Na0.44MnO2 electrodes
Authors: Chen Fuming , Huang Yinxi , Guo Lu , Ding Meng , Yang Hui Ying
Published: September 2017

Correction for ‘A dual-ion electrochemistry deionization system based on AgCl-Na0.44MnO2 electrodes’ by Fuming Chen et al., Nanoscale, 2017, 9, 10101–10108.
Internal asymmetric induction by the C-6 substituent on the oxidation reaction of interglycosidic sulfur atom of thiodisaccharides
Authors: Colomer J. P. , Peñéñory A. B. , Varela O.
Published: September 2017

Complete diastereoselectivity was archived in the oxidation of 3-deoxy-S-(1-4)-disaccharides due to anchimeric assistance of the terminal CH2OH group.
Annulation of 2,3-diphenyl-4H-chromen-4-ones via photo-induced hydrogen evolution
Authors: Kang Yang , Wang Tao , Liang Yong , Zhang Yangyang , Wang Rui , Zhang Zunting
Published: September 2017

An efficient photo-induced direct intermolecular hydrogen evolution and annulation of 2,3-diphenyl-4H-chromen-4-ones in EtOH–H2O (19 : 1, v/v) at room temperature is described, which eliminates the use of any catalysts, oxidants and additives.
Revealing the relation between the structure, Li-ion conductivity and solid-state battery performance of the argyrodite Li6PS5Br solid electrolyte
Authors: Yu Chuang , Ganapathy Swapna , van Eck Ernst R. H. , van Eijck Lambert , Basak Shibabrata , Liu Yanyan , Zhang Long , Zandbergen Henny W. , Wagemaker Marnix
Published: September 2017

The relation between the argyrodite solid-electrolyte morphology and solid-state Li-ion battery performance is investigated, suggesting different morphologies for the electrode in combination electrolyte regions.
Fabrication of a flexible UV photodetector and disposable photoresponsive uric acid sensor by direct writing of ZnO pencil on paper
Authors: Veerla Raja Sekhar , Sahatiya Parikshit , Badhulika Sushmee
Published: September 2017

There are few reports on ZnO being used for flexible substrate based sensors.