bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Contamination During Ion Irradiation - Accurate Detection and Characterization of its Effect on Microstructure of Ferritic/Martensitic Steels
Authors: Wang Jing , Toloczko Mychailo B. , Kruska Karen , Schreiber Daniel K. , Edwards Danny J. , Zhu Zihua , Zhang Jiandong
Published: November 2017

Accelerator-based ion beam irradiation techniques have been used to study radiation effects in materials for decades. Although carbon contamination induced by ion beams in target materials is a well-known issue in some material systems, it has not been fully characterized nor quantified for studies in ferritic/martensitic (F/M) steels that are candidate materials for applications such as core structural components in advanced nuclear reactors. It is an especially important issue for this class of material because of the strong effect of carbon level on precipitate formation. In this paper, the ability to quantify carbon contamination using three common techniques, namely time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS), atom probe tomography (APT), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is compared. Their effectiveness and shortcomings in determining carbon contamination are presented and discussed. The corresponding microstructural changes related to carbon contamination in ion irradiated F/M steels are also presented and briefly discussed.
The role of forelimb motor cortex areas in goal directed action in mice
Authors: Morandell Karin , Huber Daniel
Published: November 2017

Mammalian motor cortex consists of several interconnected subregions thought to play distinct roles in voluntary movements, yet their specific role in decision making and execution is not completely elucidated. Here we used transient optogenetic inactivation of the caudal forelimb area (CFA) and rostral forelimb area (RFA) in mice as they performed a directional joystick task. Based on a vibrotactile cue applied to their forepaw, mice were trained to push or pull a joystick after a delay period. We found that choice and execution are temporally segregated processes. CFA and RFA were both essential during the stimulus delivery for correct choice and during the answer period for motor execution. Fine, distal motor deficits were restricted to CFA inactivation. Surprisingly, during the delay period neither area alone, but only combined inactivation was able to affect choice. Our findings suggest transient and partially distributed neural processing of choice and execution across different subregions of the motor cortex.
Dynamics of high frequency brain activity
Authors: Moffett Steven X. , O’Malley Sean M. , Man Shushuang , Hong Dawei , Martin Joseph V.
Published: November 2017

Evidence suggests that electroencephalographic (EEG) activity extends far beyond the traditional frequency range. Much of the prior study of >120 Hz EEG is in epileptic brains. In the current work, we measured EEG activity in the range of 200 to 2000 Hz, in the brains of healthy, spontaneously behaving rats. Both arrhythmic (1/f-type) and rhythmic (band) activities were identified and their properties shown to depend on EEG-defined stage of sleep/wakefulness. The inverse power law exponent of 1/f-type noise is shown to decrease from 3.08 in REM and 2.58 in NonREM to a value of 1.99 in the Waking state. Such a trend represents a transition from long- to short-term memory processes when examined in terms of the corresponding Hurst index. In addition, treating the 1/f-type activity as baseline noise reveals the presence of two, newly identified, high frequency EEG bands. The first band (ψ) is centered between 260–280 Hz; the second, and stronger, band is a broad peak in the 400–500 Hz range (termed ω). Both of these peaks display lognormal distributions. The functional significance of these frequency bands is supported by the variation in the strength of the peaks with EEG-defined sleep/wakefulness.
A genetic system for targeted mutations to disrupt and restore genes in the obligate bacterium, Ehrlichia chaffeensis
Authors: Wang Ying , Wei Lanjing , Liu Huitao , Cheng Chuanmin , Ganta Roman R.
Published: November 2017

Obligate intracellular bacteria (obligates) belonging to Rickettsiales and Chlamydiales cause diseases in hundreds of millions of people worldwide and in many animal species. Lack of an efficient system for targeted mutagenesis in obligates remains a major impediment in understanding microbial pathogenesis. Challenges in creating targeted mutations may be attributed to essential nature of majority of the genes and intracellular replication dependence. Despite success in generating random mutations, a method that works well in creating mutations in specific genes of interest followed by complementation remains problematic for obligates and is a highly sought-after goal. We describe protocols to generate stable targeted mutations by allelic exchange in Ehrlichia chaffeensis, an obligate intracellular tick-borne bacterium responsible for human monocytic ehrlichiosis. Targeted mutations in E. chaffeensis were created to disrupt two genes, and also to restore one gene by another allelic exchange mutation leading to the restoration of transcription and protein expression from the inactivated gene and the recovered organisms also express mCherry, which distinguishes from the wild type. We expect that the methods developed are broadly applicable to other obligates, particularly to rickettsial pathogens, to routinely perform targeted mutations to enable studies focused on protein structure-function analyses, host-pathogen interactions and in developing vaccines.
A theoretical quest for high temperature superconductivity on the example of low-dimensional carbon structures
Authors: Wong C. H. , Lortz R. , Buntov E. A. , Kasimova R. E. , Zatsepin A. F.
Published: November 2017

High temperature superconductivity does not necessarily require correlated electron systems with complex competing or coexisting orders. Instead, it may be achieved in a phonon-mediated classical superconductor having a high Debye temperature and large electronic density of states at the Fermi level in a material with light atoms and strong covalent bonds. Quasi-1D conductors seem promising due to the Van Hove singularities in their electronic density of states. In this sense, quasi-1D carbon structures are good candidates. In thin carbon nanotubes, superconductivity at ~15 K has been reported, and it is likely the strong curvature of the graphene sheet which enhances the electron-phonon coupling. We use an ab-initio approach to optimize superconducting quasi-1D carbon structures. We start by calculating a Tc of 13.9 K for (4.2) carbon nanotubes (CNT) that agrees well with experiments. Then we reduce the CNT to a ring, open the ring to form chains, optimize bond length and kink structure, and finally form a new type of carbon ring that reaches a Tc value of 115 K.
Semiquantative Visual Assessment of Sub-solid Pulmonary Nodules ≦3 cm in Differentiation of Lung Adenocarcinoma Spectrum
Authors: Wu Fu-Zong , Chen Po-An , Wu Carol C. , Kuo Pei-Lun , Tsao Shu-Ping , Chien Chu-Chun , Tang En-Kuei , Wu Ming-Ting
Published: November 2017

We aimed to analyze CT features of persistent subsolid nodules (SSN) ≦3 cm diagnosed pathologically as adenocarcinoma spectrum to investigate whether parameters enable distinction between invasive pulmonary adenocarcinomas (IPAs) and pre-invasive lesions. A total of 129 patients with 141 SSNs confirmed with surgically pathologic proof were retrospectively reviewed. Of 141 SSNs, there were 57 pure ground-glass nodules (GGNs), 22 heterogeneous GGNs, and 62 part-solid nodules. SSN subclassification showed a significant linear trend with invasive degree of the adenocarcinoma spectrum (pure GGNs 7%; heterogeneous GGNs 36.4%; part-solid nodules 85.5%, P for trend <0.0001). For IPA detection in 141 SSNs, a solid part of ≧3 mm was the most specificity (sensitivity, 76.9%; specificity, 94.7%), followed by air-bronchogram sign (sensitivity, 53.8%; specificity, 89.5%), SSN subclassification (sensitivity, 81.5%; specificity, 88.2%), and a lesion size ≧12 mm (sensitivity, 84.6%; specificity, 76.3%). For IPA detection in 79 pure or heterogeneous GGNs, the heterogeneous GGN sign was the most useful finding, with most specificity (sensitivity, 66.7%; specificity, 79.1%), followed by CT attenuation (HU) of ≧−493 (sensitivity, 75%; specificity, 74.6%) and a lesion size ≧10 mm (sensitivity, 83.3%; specificity, 70.1%). In conclusion, this simple combined visual and semiquantitative analysis of CT features helps distinguish IPAs from pre-invasive lesions.
Incomplete resection and linitis plastica are factors for poor survival after extended multiorgan resection in gastric cancer patients
Authors: Xiao Hua , Ma Min , Xiao Yanping , Ouyang Yongzhong , Tang Ming , Zhou Kunyan , Hong Yuan , Tang Bo , Zuo Chaohui
Published: November 2017

The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze the morbidity, mortality, and survival rates of extended multiorgan resection (EMR) for locally advanced gastric cancer patients compared to gastrectomy alone and a palliative operation. 893 locally advanced gastric cancer patients without distant metastasis had surgery including gastrectomy alone (GA group, n = 798), EMR resection (EMR group, n = 75), and palliative operation (palliative gastrectomy or gastrojejunostomy (PO group, n = 20)). Postoperative mortality and complication rates in the EMR group were significantly higher than in the GA group (2.7% vs 0.4%, P = 0.010 and 25.3% vs 8.1%, P < 0.001, respectively), but similar in the PO group. The median survival time of the EMR group was significantly longer than in the PO group (27 months vs 11 months, P = 0.020), but significantly worse (P = 0.020) than in the GA group (44 months). Incompleteness of resection (R1) and linitis plastica were independent prognostic factors for survival in the EMR group. Three different gastric cancer surgeries led to different postoperative mortality and complication rates. EMR had a better survival rate compared with PO while GA had the longest survival time with the lowest mortality and complication rates.
Transcriptome sequencing and differential gene expression analysis of the schistosome-transmitting snail Oncomelania hupensis inhabiting hilly and marshland regions
Authors: Zhao Jin-Song , Wang An-Yun , Zhao Hua-Bin , Chen Yan-Hong
Published: November 2017

The freshwater snailOncomelania hupensisis the unique intermediate host of the blood flukeSchistosoma japonicum, which is the major cause of schistosomiasis. The snail inhabits two contrasting environments: the hilly and marshland regions. The hilly snails are smaller in size and have the typical smooth shell, whereas the marshland snails are larger and possess the ribbed shell. To reveal the differences in gene expression between the hilly and marshland snails, a total of six snails, three per environment, were individually examined by RNA sequencing technology. All paired-end reads were assembled into contigs from which 34,760 unigenes were predicted. Based on single nucleotide polymorphisms, principal component analysis and neighbor-joining clustering revealed two distinct clusters of hilly and marshland snails. Analysis of expression changes between environments showed that upregulated genes relating to immunity and development were enriched in hilly snails, while those associated with reproduction were over-represented in marshland snails. Eight differentially expressed genes between the two types of snails were validated by qRT-PCR. Our study identified candidate genes that could be targets for future functional studies, and provided a link between expression profiling and ecological adaptation of the snail that may have implications for schistosomiasis control.
Axonemal Lumen Dominates Cytosolic Protein Diffusion inside the Primary Cilium
Authors: Luo Wangxi , Ruba Andrew , Takao Daisuke , Zweifel Ludovit P. , Lim Roderick Y. H. , Verhey Kristen J. , Yang Weidong
Published: November 2017

Transport of membrane and cytosolic proteins in primary cilia is thought to depend on intraflagellar transport (IFT) and diffusion. However, the relative contribution and spatial routes of each transport mechanism are largely unknown. Although challenging to decipher, the details of these routes are essential for our understanding of protein transport in primary cilia, a critically affected process in many genetic diseases. By using a high-speed virtual 3D super-resolution microscopy, we have mapped the 3D spatial locations of transport routes for various cytosolic proteins in the 250-nm-wide shaft of live primary cilia with a spatiotemporal resolution of 2 ms and <16 nm. Our data reveal two spatially distinguishable transport routes for cytosolic proteins: an IFT-dependent path along the axoneme, and a passive-diffusion route in the axonemal lumen that escaped previous studies. While all cytosolic proteins tested primarily utilize the IFT path in the anterograde direction, differences are observed in the retrograde direction where IFT20 only utilizes IFT, and approximately half of KIF17 and one third of α–tubulin utilizes diffusion besides IFT.
Mechanisms by which in vitro meiotic arrest and sexual maturity improve developmental potential of mouse oocytes
Authors: Chen Fei , Lin Juan , Sun Xue , Xiao Bin , Ning Shu-Fen , Zhu Shuai , Wang Hui-Li , Tan Jing-He
Published: November 2017

To study the relationship between chromatin condensation, gene transcription and developmental competence during oocyte maturation and to explore the mechanisms by which meiotic arrest maintenance (MAM) and sexual maturity improve oocyte competence, we examined effects of MAM with roscovitine or db-cAMP on chromatin condensation, gene transcription and developmental potential of NSN or SN oocytes from prepubertal or adult mice. MAM with roscovitine improved the developmental competence and global gene transcription of prepubertal NSN (prep-NSN) and adult-SN oocytes while having no effect on those of prep-SN oocytes. MAM with db-cAMP facilitated neither development nor transcription in any type of oocytes. MAM with either roscovitine or db-cAMP promoted chromatin condensation of prep-NSN oocytes. MAM with roscovitine promoted gene transcription and chromatin condensation simultaneously through inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 5 and 2, respectively. The results suggested that MAM with roscovitine improved oocyte competence by promoting gene transcription via inhibiting CDK5. Oocyte cytoplasmic maturation is correlated with gene transcription but not with chromatin condensation. The difference in developmental competence between prepubertal NSN and SN oocytes and between prepubertal and adult SN oocytes was because while the former had not, the latter had completed or acquired the ability for transcription of important genes.
Ml proteins from Mesorhizobium loti and MucR from Brucella abortus: an AT-rich core DNA-target site and oligomerization ability
Authors: Baglivo Ilaria , Pirone Luciano , Pedone Emilia Maria , Pitzer Joshua Edison , Muscariello Lidia , Marino Maria Michela , Malgieri Gaetano , Freschi Andrea , Chambery Angela , Roop II Roy-Martin , Pedone Paolo Vincenzo
Published: November 2017

Mesorhizobium loti contains ten genes coding for proteins sharing high amino acid sequence identity with members of the Ros/MucR transcription factor family. Five of these Ros/MucR family members from Mesorhizobium loti (Ml proteins) have been recently structurally and functionally characterized demonstrating that Ml proteins are DNA-binding proteins. However, the DNA-binding studies were performed using the Ros DNA-binding site with the Ml proteins. Currently, there is no evidence as to when the Ml proteins are expressed during the Mesorhizobium loti life cycle as well as no information concerning their natural DNA-binding site. In this study, we examine the ml genes expression profile in Mesorhizobium loti and show that ml1, ml2, ml3 and ml5 are expressed during planktonic growth and in biofilms. DNA-binding experiments show that the Ml proteins studied bind a conserved AT-rich site in the promoter region of the exoY gene from Mesorhizobium loti and that the proteins make important contacts with the minor groove of DNA. Moreover, we demonstrate that the Ml proteins studied form higher-order oligomers through their N-terminal region and that the same AT-rich site is recognized by MucR from Brucella abortus using a similar mechanism involving contacts with the minor groove of DNA and oligomerization.
FMNH2-dependent monooxygenases initiate catabolism of sulfonamides in Microbacterium sp. strain BR1 subsisting on sulfonamide antibiotics
Authors: Ricken Benjamin , Kolvenbach Boris A. , Bergesch Christian , Benndorf Dirk , Kroll Kevin , Strnad Hynek , Vlček Čestmír , Adaixo Ricardo , Hammes Frederik , Shahgaldian Patrick , Schäffer Andreas , Kohler Hans-Peter E. , Corvini Philippe F.-X.
Published: November 2017

We report a cluster of genes encoding two monooxygenases (SadA and SadB) and one FMN reductase (SadC) that enable Microbacterium sp. strain BR1 and other Actinomycetes to inactivate sulfonamide antibiotics. Our results show that SadA and SadC are responsible for the initial attack of sulfonamide molecules resulting in the release of 4-aminophenol. The latter is further transformed into 1,2,4-trihydroxybenzene by SadB and SadC prior to mineralization and concomitant production of biomass. As the degradation products lack antibiotic activity, the presence of SadA will result in an alleviated bacteriostatic effect of sulfonamides. In addition to the relief from antibiotic stress this bacterium gains access to an additional carbon source when this gene cluster is expressed. As degradation of sulfonamides was also observed when Microbacterium sp. strain BR1 was grown on artificial urine medium, colonization with such strains may impede common sulfonamide treatment during co-infections with pathogens of the urinary tract. This case of biodegradation exemplifies the evolving catabolic capacity of bacteria, given that sulfonamide bacteriostatic are purely of synthetic origin. The wide distribution of this cluster in Actinomycetes and the presence of traA encoding a relaxase in its vicinity suggest that this cluster is mobile and that is rather alarming.
Reverse engineering protocols for controlling spin dynamics
Authors: Zhang Qi , Chen Xi , Guéry-Odelin D.
Published: November 2017

We put forward reverse engineering protocols to shape in time the components of the magnetic field to manipulate a single spin, two independent spins with different gyromagnetic factors, and two interacting spins in short amount of times. We also use these techniques to setup protocols robust against the exact knowledge of the gyromagnetic factors for the one spin problem, or to generate entangled states for two or more spins coupled by dipole-dipole interactions.
Gene expression profile changes in the jejunum of weaned piglets after oral administration of Lactobacillus or an antibiotic
Authors: Zhang Dongyan , Shang Tingting , Huang Yan , Wang Sixin , Liu Hui , Wang Jing , Wang Yamin , Ji Haifeng , Zhang Rijun
Published: November 2017

The small intestine plays an essential role in the health and well-being of animals. Previous studies have shown that Lactobacillus has a protective effect on intestinal morphology, intestinal epithelium integrity and appropriate maturation of gut-associated tissues. Here, gene expression in jejunum tissue of weaned piglets was investigated by RNA-seq analysis after administration of sterile saline, Lactobacillus reuteri, or an antibiotic (chlortetracycline). In total, 401 and 293 genes were significantly regulated by chlortetracycline and L. reuteri, respectively, compared with control treatment. Notably, the HP, NOX1 and GPX2 genes were significantly up-regulated in the L. reuteri group compared with control, which is related to the antioxidant ability of this strain. In addition, the expression of genes related to arachidonic acid metabolism and linoleic acid metabolism enriched after treatment with L. reuteri. The fatty acid composition in the jejunum and colon was examined by GC-MS analysis and suggested that the MUFA C18:1n9c, and PUFAs C18:2n6c and C20:4n6 were increased in the L. reuteri group, verifying the GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses of the RNA-seq results. The results contribute to our understanding of the probiotic activity of this strain and its application in pig production.
Inhibition of intimal hyperplasia in murine aortic allografts by administration of a small-molecule TLR4 inhibitor TAK-242
Authors: Wu Chuangyan , Ding Xiangchao , Zhou Cheng , Ye Ping , Sun Yuan , Wu Jie , Zhang Anchen , Huang Xiaofan , Ren Lingyun , Wang Ke , Deng Peng , Yue Zhang , Chen Jiuling , Wang Sihua , Xia Jiahong
Published: November 2017

Graft arteriosclerosis (GA) is the leading cause of late cardiac allograft dysfunction. The innate immune system plays a major role in GA, paprticularly Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. Here we characterized the role of TLR4 and its antagonist TAK-242 in a mouse model of GA. BALB/c (H-2d) donor aortas were transplanted into C57BL/6 (H-2b) recipients, and the mice received intraperitoneal injection of 3 or 10 mg/kg of TAK-242 or vehicle every other day for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks. With TAK-242 administration, intimal hyperplasia initially appeared at 2 weeks after transplantation, and TAK-242 postponed the progression of neointimal formation in allogeneic aortic grafts. TAK-242 treatment reduced CD68+ macrophage accumulation in the allografts, reduced the levels of ly-6Chi monocytes in peripheral blood, bone marrow and spleen, and downregulated proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine levels. Ex vivo we observed that TAK-242 could improve the graft microenvironment by interfering the Tck/Mφ IL12p70 and IFNγ axis, reducing CCL2-mediated migration of vascular smooth cells.
Ketamine’s antidepressant effect is mediated by energy metabolism and antioxidant defense system
Authors: Weckmann Katja , Deery Michael J. , Howard Julie A. , Feret Renata , Asara John M. , Dethloff Frederik , Filiou Michaela D. , Iannace Jamie , Labermaier Christiana , Maccarrone Giuseppina , Webhofer Christian , Teplytska Larysa , Lilley Kathryn , Müller Marianne B. , Turck Christoph W.
Published: November 2017

Fewer than 50% of all patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) treated with currently available antidepressants (ADs) show full remission. Moreover, about one third of the patients suffering from MDD does not respond to conventional ADs and develop treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Ketamine, a non-competitive, voltage-dependent N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, has been shown to have a rapid antidepressant effect, especially in patients suffering from TRD. Hippocampi of ketamine-treated mice were analysed by metabolome and proteome profiling to delineate ketamine treatment-affected molecular pathways and biosignatures. Our data implicate mitochondrial energy metabolism and the antioxidant defense system as downstream effectors of the ketamine response. Specifically, ketamine tended to downregulate the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)/adenosine diphosphate (ADP) metabolite ratio which strongly correlated with forced swim test (FST) floating time. Furthermore, we found increased levels of enzymes that are part of the ‘oxidative phosphorylation’ (OXPHOS) pathway. Our study also suggests that ketamine causes less protein damage by rapidly decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and lend further support to the hypothesis that mitochondria have a critical role for mediating antidepressant action including the rapid ketamine response.
Role of lattice oxygen and oxygen vacancy sites in platinum group metal catalysts supported on Sr3Fe2O7−δ for NO-selective reduction
Authors: Beppu Kosuke , Hosokawa Saburo , Asakura Hiroyuki , Teramura Kentaro , Tanaka Tsunehiro
Published: November 2017

The lattice oxygen in PGM/Sr3Fe2O7−δ contributes to the oxidation of CO and C3H6 and the oxygen vacancy sites can play a role in NO reduction.
Zeolite-supported rhodium sub-nano cluster catalyst for low-temperature selective oxidation of methane to syngas
Authors: Hou Yuhui , Ogasawara Sho , Fukuoka Atsushi , Kobayashi Hirokazu
Published: November 2017

Rh sub-nano clusters supported on zeolite are remarkably more active, selective, and durable than Rh nanoparticles for the conversion of methane to syngas at low temperature.
Separation of Am3+ and Eu3+ using hexa-n-octylnitrilo triacetamide (HONTA): complexation, extraction, luminescence, EXAFS and DFT studies
Authors: Bhattacharyya Arunasis , Egberink Richard J. M. , Mohapatra Prasanta K. , Verma Parveen K. , Yadav Ashok K. , Jha Sambhunath , Bhattacharyya Dibyendu , Huskens Jurriaan , Verboom Willem
Published: November 2017

Solvent extraction and complexation of Am3+ and Eu3+ were studied using HONTA.
Nanochannels as molecular check valves
Authors: Yang Qian , Lin Xingyu , Wang Yafeng , Su Bin
Published: November 2017

A polydimethylsiloxane modified silica nanochannel membrane (PDMS-SNM) performs unidirectional molecular diffusion, which arises from the synergy of electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions.
The Yin and Yang of coordinating co-solvents in the size-tuning of Fe3O4 nanocrystals through flow synthesis
Authors: Jiao Mingxia , Jing Lihong , Wei Xiaojun , Liu Chunyan , Luo Xiliang , Gao Mingyuan
Published: November 2017

The Yin and Yang size-tuning mechanism of coordinating co-solvents was revealed with a flow synthesis of Fe3O4 nanocrystals towards MRI application.
Self-assembly of water-soluble silver nanoclusters: superstructure formation and morphological evolution
Authors: Shen Jinglin , Wang Zhi , Sun Di , Liu Guokui , Yuan Shiling , Kurmoo Mohamedally , Xin Xia
Published: November 2017

Supramolecular self-assembly, based on non-covalent interactions, has been employed as an efficient approach to obtain various functional materials from nanometer-sized building blocks, in particular, [Ag6(mna)6]6−, mna = mercaptonicotinate (Ag6-NC).
Design of superhalogens using a core–shell structure model
Authors: Liu Zhifeng , Liu Xiaojuan , Zhao Jijun
Published: November 2017

A core–shell structure model has been proposed for the design of superhalogens, providing ideal building blocks for cluster-assembled materials.
Comparative investigation of sensing behaviors between gap and lattice plasmon modes in a metallic nanoring array
Authors: Liang Yuzhang , Li Lixia , Lu Mengdi , Yuan Huizhen , Long Zhongwen , Peng Wei , Xu Ting
Published: November 2017

A metallic nanoring array supports two plasmonic modes with a complementary sensing scheme for detecting a broad range of biomolecules.
Copper-catalyzed ipso-selenation of aromatic carboxylic acids
Authors: Wang Jing , Li Hongchen , Leng Tao , Liu Miaochang , Ding Jinchang , Huang Xiaobo , Wu Huayue , Gao Wenxia , Wu Ge
Published: November 2017

Study of the synthesis of diaryl and methyl aryl selenides in good to excellent yields, including mechanistic studies and demonstration of the utility of the products in the facile synthesis of 10H-phenoselenazine and 11-methyldibenzo-(b,f)-1,4-selenazepine.
Switch-on fluorescent/FRET probes to study human histidine triad nucleotide binding protein 1 (hHint1), a novel target for opioid tolerance and neuropathic pain
Authors: Shah Rachit , Zhou Andrew , Wagner Carston R.
Published: November 2017

Histidine Triad Nucleotide Binding Protein 1 (Hint1) has emerged to be an important post-synaptic protein associated with a variety of central nervous system disorders such as pain, addiction, and schizophrenia.
Efficient cross-coupling of aryl/alkenyl triflates with acyclic secondary alkylboronic acids
Authors: Si Tengda , Li Bowen , Xiong Wenrui , Xu Bin , Tang Wenjun
Published: November 2017

Efficient cross-coupling between aryl/alkenyl triflates and acyclic secondary alkylboronic acids is realized by employing P,PO ligand L1/L2, providing a series of sterically congested acyclic secondary alkyl arenes/olefins in good to excellent yields. The method has enabled a concise and 4-step synthesis of a gossypol intermediate.
Withapubesides A–D: natural inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitors from Physalis pubescens
Authors: Xia Gui-Yang , Yao Tie , Zhang Bing-Yang , Li Yang , Kang Ning , Cao Shi-Jie , Ding Li-Qin , Chen Li-Xia , Qiu Feng
Published: November 2017

Withapubesides A–D (1–4), candidates for the development of iNOS inhibitors, were isolated from Physalis pubescens.
Copper-catalyzed highly selective synthesis of 2-benzyl- and 2-benzylidene-substituted benzo[b]thiazinones from 2-iodophenylcinnamamides and potassium sulfide
Authors: Liu Wenjuan , Min Hao , Zhu Xiaoming , Deng Guobo , Liang Yun
Published: November 2017

DBU as a switch could control the selectivity of the formation of 2-benzyl-substituted benzo[b]thiazinones and 2-benzylidenebenzo[b]thiazinones.
Fabrication of multifunctional fluorescent organic nanoparticles with AIE feature through photo-initiated RAFT polymerization
Authors: Jiang Ruming , Liu Meiying , Huang Qiang , Huang Hongye , Wan Qing , Wen Yuanqing , Tian Jianwen , Cao Qian-yong , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wei Yen
Published: November 2017

Novel fluorescent organic nanoparticles with AIE feature have been fabricated through a catalyst-free photo-initiated RAFT polymerization.
Nitrogen-rich sandwich-like carbon nanosheets as anodes with superior lithium storage properties
Authors: Chu Hailiang , Shao Chunfeng , Qiu Shujun , Zou Yongjin , Xiang Cuili , Xu Fen , Sun Lixian
Published: November 2017

Nitrogen-rich sandwich-like carbon nanosheets used as anodes for LIBs exhibited high discharge capacity and remarkable rate capability.
Syngas production: diverse H2/CO range by regulating carbonates electrolyte composition from CO2/H2O via co-electrolysis in eutectic molten salts
Authors: Liu Yue , Yuan Dandan , Ji Deqiang , Li Zhida , Zhang Zhonghai , Wang Baohui , Wu Hongjun
Published: November 2017

This work reports the simultaneous production of CO and H2 with a broadened H2/CO ratio range.
Study on preparation conditions of coal fly ash catalyst and catalytic mechanism in a heterogeneous Fenton-like process
Authors: Wang Nannan , Chen Jiaqing , Zhao Qiang , Xu Han
Published: November 2017

The heterogeneous Fenton-like process catalyzed by H2SO4-modified coal fly ash can treat organic wastewater effectively.
Effect of gellan and calcium chloride on properties of surimi gel with low and high setting phenomena
Authors: Petcharat Tanyamon , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: November 2017

The properties of bigeye snapper surimi gel as affected by gellan at different levels (2–6% based on solid content of surimi) in combination with CaCl2at various concentrations (25–75 mmol kg−1) in the presence and absence of transglutaminase were examined.
Bifunctional N-heterocyclic carbene ligands for Cu-catalyzed direct C–H carboxylation with CO2
Authors: Park Da-Ae , Ryu Ji Yeon , Lee Junseong , Hong Sukwon
Published: November 2017

A copper-catalyzed direct C–H carboxylation of heteroarene compounds using diethylene glycol-functionalized imidazo[1,5,a] pyridin-3-ylidene (DEG-ImPy) ligands has been developed.
A sustainable approach to separate and recover indium and tin from spent indium–tin oxide targets
Authors: Gu Shuai , Fu Bitian , Dodbiba Gjergj , Fujita Toyohisa , Fang Baizeng
Published: November 2017

A sustainable process is developed to recover indium and tin from spent ITO targets with high recovery rate and purity.
The relationship between subject matter knowledge and teaching effectiveness of undergraduate chemistry peer facilitators
Authors: Boothe J. R. , Barnard R. A. , Peterson L. J. , Coppola B. P.
Published: November 2017

Use of peer instruction and facilitation has surged in undergraduate education at large colleges and universities in recent years. Studies on peer instruction have been directed primarily at student learning gains and affective outcomes among the facilitators. For peer instructors, the relationship between their teaching effectiveness and their foundational content knowledge is assumed but understudied. In an effort to promote instructional coherence (i.e., instructional same-pageness) in the introductory organic chemistry program at the University of Michigan, we observed peer-led study group facilitators’ involvement in their study groups (as teachers of groups of 6–12 students) and in a companion course (as learners) designed to reinforce and enhance their content knowledge. Audiovisual recordings of the facilitators in both the companion course and, for ten of them, leading their study groups, were captured over each of the two week periods covering the topics of stereochemistry and also conformational analysis. Recordings were subsequently coded for topic and correctness in presentation of subject matter. Errors made in either study group or the companion course were investigated for error resolution (corrected or uncorrected), source of error, and propagation of corrected errors. Analysis of recordings revealed that facilitators who have their own errors corrected in the companion course, or observe their peers’ errors corrected in the companion course, correctly describe these concepts in study groups. On examining errors made by facilitators when they are leading study group sessions, a backwards analysis showed consistently that either the topics had not been addressed in the antecedent companion course, or the facilitator was not actively engaged with the discussion when the topics were being discussed. These findings have implications to inform not only our own implementation of peer-led study groups, but also those interested in designing subject matter companion courses for peer leaders in other instructional settings.
Enforcing Ising-like magnetic anisotropy via trigonal distortion in the design of a W(v)–Co(ii) cyanide single-chain magnet
Authors: Zhang Yuan-Zhu , Dolinar Brian S. , Liu Shihao , Brown Andrew J. , Zhang Xuan , Wang Zhao-Xi , Dunbar Kim R.
Published: November 2017

A new octacyanotungstate(v) singe chain magnet with an effective energy barrier of 39.7(3) cm−1 is achieved by enforcing Ising-like magnetic anisotropy via introduction of trigonal distortion with a fac-tridentate capping ligand.
Irregular model DNA particles self-assemble into a regular structure
Authors: Preisler Zdeněk , Saccà Barbara , Whitelam Stephen
Published: November 2017

DNA nanoparticles with three-fold coordination have been observed to self-assemble in experiment into a network equivalent to the hexagonal (6.6.6) tiling, and a network equivalent to the 4.8.8 Archimedean tiling.
The crystal structure and sodium disorder of high-temperature polymorph β-Na3PS4
Authors: Nishimura Shin-ichi , Tanibata Naoto , Hayashi Akitoshi , Tatsumisago Masahiro , Yamada Atsuo
Published: November 2017

Solid sodium conductors are of great interest as electrolytes for all-solid sodium batteries and also for sodium–sulphur batteries.
Hierarchical micro/submicrometer-scale structured scaffolds preparedviacoaxial electrospinning for bone regeneration
Authors: Tao Chen , Zhang Yanxia , Li Bin , Chen Liang
Published: November 2017

A tissue engineering scaffold based on hierarchical micro/submicrometer-scale structured core–sheath fibers is preparedviacoaxial electrospinning for bone regeneration.
Novel 4,8-benzobisthiazole copolymers and their field-effect transistor and photovoltaic applications
Authors: Conboy Gary , Taylor Rupert G. D. , Findlay Neil J. , Kanibolotsky Alexander L. , Inigo Anto R. , Ghosh Sanjay S. , Ebenhoch Bernd , Krishnan Jagadamma Lethy , Thalluri Gopala Krishna V. V. , Sajjad Muhammad T. , Samuel Ifor D. W. , Skabara Peter J.
Published: November 2017

A series of BBT-containing copolymers featuring the 4,8-conjugation pathway is presented and evaluated.
Clinical Implications of Neurocognitive Control Deficits in Bilingual Adults With Aphasia
Authors: Dash Tanya , Ansaldo Ana Inés
Published: November 2017

The purpose of the paper is to review the literature on the neurocognitive control in bilingual aphasia and extrapolate research findings into clinical guidelines. Neurocognitive control, as well as bilingualism, are multifaceted phenomena whose complex interaction is disrupted by stroke. Bilingualism is an added factor of complexity to aphasia assessment and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation specialists are more aware of the need to understand language and nonverbal cognitive abilities, for a better treatment outcome (Ansaldo, Saidi, Ruiz, 2010; Green, 2005; Helm-Estabrooks, 2002). Consequently, assessment and management of neurocognitive skills in bilingual aphasia are gradually gaining momentum. Applying principles from language-cognitive control interactions to the rehabilitation of bilingual populations with aphasia appears to be a valuable intervention strategy for this population.
Neuroimaging Evidence in the Treatment of Bilingual/Multilingual Adults With Aphasia
Authors: Peñaloza Claudia , Kiran Swathi
Published: November 2017

Recovery in bilingual adults with aphasia (BAA) following treatment is a dynamic process that is accompanied by changes in the functional organization of language in the brain. Lesion data and functional imaging methods can improve our understanding of language deficit and recovery in BAA. This review article aims to inform clinicians about the neuroimaging methods employed to examine the neural correlates of language treatment in BAA and the evidence of the functional changes that occur within and across the language processing and the language control systems as a function of language treatment.
Consistent segregated staggered schemes with explicit steps for the isentropic and full Euler equations
Authors: Herbin Raphaèle , Latché Jean-Claude , Nguyen Trung Tan
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we build and analyze the stability and consistency of decoupled schemes, involving only explicit steps, for the isentropic Euler equations and for the full Euler equations. These schemes are based on staggered space discretizations, with an upwinding performed with respect to the material velocity only. The pressure gradient is defined as the transpose of the natural velocity divergence, and is thus centered. The velocity convection term is built in such a way that the solutions satisfy a discrete kinetic energy balance, with a remainder term at the left-hand side which is shown to be non-negative under a CFL condition. In the case of the full Euler equations, we solve the internal energy balance, to avoid the space discretization of the total energy, whose expression involves cell-centered and face-centered variables. However, since the residual terms in the kinetic energy balance (probably) do not tend to zero with the time and space steps when computing shock solutions, we compensate them by corrective terms in the internal energy equation, to make the scheme consistent with the conservative form of the continuous problem. We then show, in one space dimension, that, if the scheme converges, the limit is indeed an entropy weak solution of the system. In any case, the discretization preserves by construction the convex of admissible states (positivity of the density and, for Euler equations, of the internal energy), under a CFL condition. Finally, we present numerical results which confort this theory.
Acid-Mediated C–N Bond Cleavage in 1-Sulfonylpyrrolidines: An Efficient Route towards Dibenzoxanthenes, Diarylmethanes, and Resorcinarenes
Authors: Gazizov Almir , Smolobochkin Andrey , Anikina Ekaterina , Strelnik Anna , Burilov Alexander , Pudovik Michail
Published: November 2017

The rare example of pyrrolidine C–N bond cleavage in 1-sulfonylpyrrolidines in acidic media in the presence of phenols is reported. The reaction proceeds under mild conditions and provides a convenient route to otherwise hardly accessible and previously unknown dibenzoxanthenes, diarylbutanes, and resorcinarenes having a sulfonylamide moiety.
Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion or Posterior Foraminotomy for Cervical Radiculopathy: Results of a Single-Center Series
Authors: Scholz Torben , Mainz Verena , Blume Christian , Albanna Walid , Clusmann Hans , Müller Andreas , Geiger Matthias
Published: November 2017

Background Anterior cervical diskectomy and fusion (ACDF) or posterior foraminotomy (PF) are standard treatment options for cervical radiculopathy due to disk prolapse. Which method produces superior results has not yet been established. One reason for the dilemma, among others, is a lack of detailed outcome analysis in previous studies. We quantified outcome to compare both methods in our retrospective single-center series.

Method We conducted a retrospective analysis of 107 patients with cervical radiculopathy who were operated on via ACDF or via PF. Demographic data, symptoms, neurologic status, and pathology were recorded and correlated to outcome parameters such as Odom's criteria, visual analog scale values of radicular pain, Neck Disability Index values, and subjective satisfaction, which were also compared between both treatment groups. Intraoperative data, early and late complications, and reoperations were recorded and compared between both surgical groups.

Results None of the recorded preoperative data were predictive for postoperative outcome parameters. Patients in the PF group reported better overall outcome (Odom's criteria) and greater relief of radicular and neck pain. Operative time and blood loss were less in the PF group. Both groups showed comparable early complication rates, but PF patients tended to have more late reoperations.

Conclusion Due to a better overall outcome as well as greater relief of radicular and neck pain in our cohort, we consider PF the first-line treatment if morphology of the pathology is suitable.
Protective Effects of Quercetin on Necrotizing Enterocolitis in a Neonatal Rat Model
Authors: Ozcan Cansu , Hismiogullari Adnan , Sunay Fatma , Ozcan Teoman , Berksoy Emel , Aksoz Elif , Yazıcı Selçuk
Published: November 2017

Introduction Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the major health problems of newborn period. To date, a large amount of chemicals have been tested for NEC and some showed limited beneficial effects. The research for better results still continues. This study aims to investigate the effects of quercetin (QE) on NEC treatment in rats.

Methods Newborn rats were divided into control, NEC, and NEC + QE groups. In NEC and NEC + QE groups, experimental NEC was induced. NEC + QE group animals were also given QE. Weight changes of the animals were recorded, and serum total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Histologic evaluation of the distal ileum and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining were performed.

Results A significant increase in the TAS levels was observed in NEC + QE group. Only NEC group exhibited significantly higher TOS and MDA levels and lower GSH levels. Rats in the NEC + QE group had better histopathology and less apoptosis than NEC group.

Conclusion QE is effective in enhancing antioxidant defense mechanism, limiting oxidative stress, reducing intestinal damage, and preventing NEC development.
Patterns of Systemic and Cervicovaginal Fluid Inflammatory Cytokines throughout Pregnancy
Authors: Chavan Niraj , Ebersole Jeffrey , Wiggins Amanda , Sharma Savita , McCubbin Andrea , Barnett Janine , O'Brien John , Ashford Kristin
Published: November 2017

Objective This study describes the normal variations in serum and cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) cytokine levels throughout pregnancy.

Study Design This multicenter, prospective study examined trimester-specific maternal serum and CVF cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C-reactive protein [CRP]). A two-factor linear mixed modeling approach compared cytokine distribution, while pairwise comparisons evaluated differences over time.

Results Trimester-specific serum cytokine data were available for 288, 243, and 221 patients, whereas CVF cytokine data were available for 273, 229, and 198 patients. CVF had significantly higher concentrations of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and matrix metalloproteinase-8 (p < 0.001), irrespective of the trimester. At all time points, IL-10 and CRP concentrations were higher in serum than CVF (p < 0.001). Serum IL-10 increased significantly throughout pregnancy (p < 0.001).

Conclusion Differences in cytokine distribution across different biological fluids are evident throughout pregnancy. These findings provide a framework for examining patterns of changes in cytokines throughout pregnancy.
Health Care Utilization after NICU Discharge and Neurodevelopmental Outcome in the First 2 Years of Life in Preterm Infants
Authors: Greene Michelle , Patra Kousiki
Published: November 2017

Objective The objective of this study was to determine predictors of health care utilization and its association with neurodevelopmental outcome in a recent cohort of preterm infants.

Study Design A total of 405 infants (born 2008–2011) seen in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) follow-up were compared for use of hospitalizations (hosps), emergency room (ER), subspecialties (SS), and results of the Bayley-III. High rate of use was defined as having >1 hosp, ER, or SS. Multiple regression adjusted for the effect of risk factors on high health care use.

Results High hosp rate was associated with public health insurance (PHI; p = 0.021), severely abnormal head ultrasound (SAHUS; p = 0.04) at 1 year, and PHI (p = 0.011), younger gestational age (GA) (p = 0.029) at 2 years. High ER use was associated with PHI, younger GA at 1 year (p = 0.007 and 0.012) and 2 years (p = 0.010 and 0.005). High SS was associated with NICU morbidities including small for GA (p = 0.005), retinopathy of prematurity (p = 0.001), necrotizing enterocolitis (p = 0.03), and SAHUS (p = 0.045). At 20 months, infants with high hosp and SS had higher rates of cerebral palsy and significantly lower mean cognitive, language, and motor scores.

Conclusion Health care utilization is high among preterm infants in recent years and significantly associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcome. Further research is needed to determine if health care utilization after NICU discharge is an independent predictor of poor outcome.