bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flaxseed Oil Supplementation Improve Gene Expression Levels of PPAR‐γ, LP(a), IL‐1 and TNF‐α in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Hashemzadeh Ali Akbar , Nasoohi Nikoo , Raygan Fariba , Aghadavod Esmat , Akbari Elmira , Taghizadeh Mohsen , Memarzadeh Mohammad Reza , Asemi Zatollah
Published: September 2017

This study was carried out to determine the effects of flaxseed oil administration on gene expression levels related to insulin, lipid and inflammation in overweight diabetic patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). This randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was conducted among 60 diabetic patients with CHD. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to intake either 1000 mg n‐3 fatty acid from flaxseed oil containing 400 mg α‐Linolenic acid [ALA (18:3n‐3)] (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) twice a day for 12 weeks. Gene expression related to insulin, lipid and inflammation were quantified in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of diabetic patients with CHD with RT‐PCR method. Results of RT‐PCR demonstrated that after the 12‐week intervention, compared with the placebo, flaxseed oil supplementation could up‐regulate gene expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR‐γ) (P = 0.02) in PBMC of diabetic patients with CHD. In addition, compared with the placebo, taking flaxseed oil supplements down‐regulated gene expression levels of lipoprotein(a) [LP(a)] (P = 0.001), interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) (P = 0.001) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) (P = 0.02) in PBMC of diabetic patients with CHD. We did not observe any significant effect of flaxseed oil supplementation on gene expression levels of low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), IL‐8 and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) in PBMC of diabetic patients with CHD. Overall, flaxseed oil supplementation for 12 weeks in diabetic patients with CHD significantly improved gene expression levels of PPAR‐γ, LP(a), IL‐1 and TNF‐α, but did not influence LDLR, IL‐8 and TGF‐β.
Computer-Assisted Planning and Three-Dimensional-Printed Patient-Specific Instrumental Guide for Corrective Osteotomy in Post-Traumatic Femur Deformity: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chi-Kay Lau , King-him Chui , Kin-bong Lee , Wilson Li
Published: September 2017

Post-traumatic limb deformity is often multiplanar and thus is a difficult pathology to deal with surgically. Precise preoperative planning and accurate intraoperative execution are two main important steps that lead to satisfactory outcome. Computer-assisted planning and three-dimensional-printed patient-specific instrumental guides provide excellent aid to the two steps, respectively. We report a case of posttraumatic lower limb deformity in a patient who underwent closing wedge corrective osteotomy with the aid of the aforementioned new technologies.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Mimics Infected Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Chi-Kin Lo , Chun-Kit Lai , Koon-Ho Tsang , Yiu-Chung Wong
Published: September 2017

Lymphoma associated with total knee arthroplasty is a rare condition. We report a case of non-Hodgkin lymphoma mimicking an infected total knee arthroplasty. A 73-year-old woman who received left total knee replacement presented with fever and a discharging sinus over her left knee 12 weeks after surgery. The diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection was made and a two-stage revision arthroplasty planned. After implant removal and insertion of an antibiotic spacer in the first-stage operation, culture results of all intraoperative specimens were negative but the pathology report showed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. She then received chemotherapy and a second-stage reconstruction operation. The wound healed uneventfully and she regained independent mobility.
Who drives whom ‐ sukuk or bond? A new evidence from granger causality and wavelet approach
Authors: Haque Md. Mahmudul , Chowdhury Mohammad Ashraful Ferdous , Buriev Abdul Aziz , Bacha Obiyathulla Ismath , Masih Mansur
Published: September 2017

Sukuk is a highly appealing alternative instrument of conventional bond in the financial market over the last two decades. To a certain extent, the market players assume sukuk as the same as bond. However, sukuk has its own fundamental asset backed principles, whereas bond is backed by debt. The objective of the study is to examine the Granger‐causality and lead–lag relationship between sukuk and bond by using the data of the Malaysian Government securities return for both conventional and Islamic instruments. The data for every working day of 7 years covering the period from January 31, 2007 to December 31, 2013 were collected from Bloomberg database. The yield returns of both securities have been plotted for each six months of a year. This study applied both Granger‐causality and dynamic co‐movement techniques such as, continuous wavelet transforms (CWT) coherence for analyzing the temporal evolution of the frequency content of both securities by decomposing each period into different time scales. The empirical findings of the paper reveal that with a bit of exception, there is a causal relationship between sukuk securities and conventional bonds for a given period of time. For robustness, this study applied the wavelet coherence approach and found that bond is led by sukuk in the long term investment horizon rather than in the short term. Our findings relating to the lead‐lag relationship between sukuk and bonds have important implications in terms of policy regulations and investment management. Future research and market practices could reinvestigate the differences between these two securities across different markets and types.
Revised Wuchiapingian conodont taxonomy and succession of South China
Authors: Yuan Dong-xun , Shen Shu-zhong , Henderson Charles M.
Published: September 2017

South China has become the most important area to establish a global stratigraphic framework of the Wuchiapingian Stage because complete Wuchiapingian sequences include the GSSPs for the base and top of the stage. As the markers of the Wuchiapingian GSSP, conodonts are the most important fossil group to establish the Wuchiapingian biostratigraphic framework. However, few documents have investigated in detail the conodont biostratigraphic succession through the entire Wuchiapingian Stage. Furthermore, the conodont taxonomy of several WuchiapingianClarkinaspecies is still debated. Therefore, we here review all WuchiapingianClarkinaspecies from South China and figure ontogenetic growth series from juvenile to adult individuals for each valid and important species in order to revise both Wuchiapingian conodont taxonomy and the biostratigraphic succession. Based on the Penglaitan, Dukou, and Nanjiang sections, seven conodont zones (Clarkina postbitteri postbitteri,C.dukouensis,C.asymmetrica,C.leveni,C.guangyuanensis,C.transcaucasica, andC.orientalis) are recognized. The WuchiapingianClarkinaspecies lineage is also reviewed to confirm the conodont biostratigraphic framework. The Guadalupian-Lopingian boundary (GLB) interval represents a sequence boundary. The time framework of the pre-Lopingian extinction interval indicates that the beginning of the end-Guadalupian regression is in the upper part of theJinogondolella postserrataZone, and the beginning of the early Lopingian transgression is in the lower part of theClarkina dukouensisZone in South China.
Taylor's law, via ratios, for some distributions with infinite mean
Authors: Brown Mark , Cohen Joel E. , de la Peña Victor H.
Published: September 2017

Taylor's law (TL) originated as an empirical pattern in ecology. In many sets of samples of population density, the variance of each sample was approximately proportional to a power of the mean of that sample. In a family of nonnegative random variables, TL asserts that the population variance is proportional to a power of the population mean. TL, sometimes called fluctuation scaling, holds widely in physics, ecology, finance, demography, epidemiology, and other sciences, and characterizes many classical probability distributions and stochastic processes such as branching processes and birth-and-death processes. We demonstrate analytically for the first time that a version of TL holds for a class of distributions with infinite mean. These distributions, a subset of stable laws, and the associated TL differ qualitatively from those of light-tailed distributions. Our results employ and contribute to the methodology of Albrecher and Teugels (2006) and Albrecheret al.(2010). This work opens a new domain of investigation for generalizations of TL.
Optimal investment with intermediate consumption under no unbounded profit with bounded risk
Authors: Chau Huy N. , Cosso Andrea , Fontana Claudio , Mostovyi Oleksii
Published: September 2017

We consider the problem of optimal investment with intermediate consumption in a general semimartingale model of an incomplete market, with preferences being represented by a utility stochastic field. We show that the key conclusions of the utility maximization theory hold under the assumptions of no unbounded profit with bounded risk and of the finiteness of both primal and dual value functions.
Notes from Libya
Authors: Bennett Paul
Published: September 2017

‘Notes from Libya’ is a new regular feature of Libyan Studies following the reports of the Society's Head of Mission. These reports were previously concerned with the organisation of fieldwork and administrative matters connected to obtaining permissions, visas and so on, and were recorded in the minutes of the Council meetings. However, they have recently taken on a new form, outlining the alarming developments in Libya, largely focusing on its heritage but also on the political and economic situation, which impacts on the management of Libya's ancient monuments and artefacts. The importance and historical interest of these reports now, however, merits a wider audience and a more formal record, so these accounts are now published in Libyan Studies.
When accent preservation leads to clash
Authors: DABOUIS QUENTIN
Published: September 2017

In English, some complex words can display exceptional accent preservation (EAP): they can preserve an accent from their base even when this would violate a general restriction against adjacent accents (e.g.retúrn→retùrnée). This article analyses EAP both empirically and theoretically. The analysis of a set of 291 derivatives from Wells (2008) shows that this phenomenon can be partially attributed to the relative frequency of the base and its derivative and partially also to syllable structure, and that these two factors have a cumulative effect. It is also shown that the existence of a more deeply embedded base (e.g.colléct→ colléctive → còllectívity~collèctívity) can increase the likelihood for a derivative to display EAP. A formal account of the phenomenon is proposed building on Collie's (2007, 2008) ‘fake cyclicity’ analysis, using weighted constraints (Pater 2009, 2016) and Max-Ent-OT (Goldwater & Johnson 2003). Finally, a model of lexical access building on Hay's (2001, 2003) model and integrating more deeply embedded bases is proposed.
The European Court of Justice’s Financial Accountability
Authors: Krenn Christoph
Published: September 2017

European Court of Justice – European Parliament – Accountability through the budgetary process – Fostering the European Court of Justice’s democratic legitimacy through financial accountability – Accountability for how the European Court of Justice organises the institution and conducts its procedures – Efficiency versus quality as yardsticks to assess the Court’s performance – The European Parliament’s ambivalent practice of focusing solely on judicial efficiency – Proposals how the Parliament could take the quality of the European Court of Justice’s judicial process into account when assessing the Court – A different use of judicial statistics – Inciting quality-oriented reforms such as the introduction ofamicus curiaeparticipation and bilingual (French/English) deliberations
Diagnostik der ADHS im Jugend- und jungen Erwachsenenalter
Authors: Schmidt Sören , Petermann Franz , Waldmann Hans-Christian
Published: September 2017

Zusammenfassung. Das Jugendalter gilt als sensible Phase in der Pathogenese einer ADHS in der Lebensspanne. Neben den jugendtypischen Entwicklungsaufgaben kommen störungsspezifische Beeinträchtigungen dazu, die das Risiko komorbider Störungen erhöhen. Gleichermaßen ändert sich das Erscheinungsbild der Störung, indem Hyperaktivität und Impulsivität abnehmen beziehungsweise sich verändern, demgegenüber aber Symptome hinzukommen, die einer ADHS im Erwachsenenalter entsprechen. Um dem Symptomwandel in dieser Altersgruppe adäquat zu begegnen, wurde die Normierung des ADHS-Screening für Erwachsene (ADHS-E) auf das Jugendalter ausgeweitet, so dass dieses Verfahren nun auch in dieser Altersgruppe eingesetzt werden kann.
Tremblaya phenacola PPER: an evolutionary beta-gammaproteobacterium collage
Authors: Gil Rosario , Vargas-Chavez Carlos , López-Madrigal Sergio , Santos-García Diego , Latorre Amparo , Moya Andrés
Published: September 2017

Many insects rely on bacterial endosymbionts to obtain nutrients that are scarce in their highly specialized diets. The most surprising example corresponds to the endosymbiotic system found in mealybugs from subfamily Pseudococcinae in which two bacteria, the betaproteobacterium ‘Candidatus Tremblaya princeps’ and a gammaproteobacterium, maintain a nested endosymbiotic consortium. In the sister subfamily Phenacoccinae, however, a single beta-endosymbiont, ‘Candidatus Tremblaya phenacola’, has been described. In a previous study, we detected a trpB gene of gammaproteobacterial origin in ‘Ca. Tremblaya phenacola’ from two Phenacoccus species, apparently indicating an unusual case of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in a bacterial endosymbiont. What we found by sequencing the genome of ‘Ca. Tremblaya phenacola’ PPER, single endosymbiont of Phenacoccus peruvianus, goes beyond a HGT phenomenon. It rather represents a genome fusion between a beta and a gammaproteobacterium, followed by massive rearrangements and loss of redundant genes, leading to an unprecedented evolutionary collage. Mediated by the presence of several repeated sequences, there are many possible genome arrangements, and different subgenomic sequences might coexist within the same population.
Network heterogeneity regulates steering in actin-based motility
Authors: Boujemaa-Paterski Rajaa , Suarez Cristian , Klar Tobias , Zhu Jie , Guérin Christophe , Mogilner Alex , Théry Manuel , Blanchoin Laurent
Published: September 2017

The growth of branched actin networks powers cell-edge protrusions and motility. A heterogeneous density of actin, which yields to a tunable cellular response, characterizes these dynamic structures. We study how actin organization controls both the rate and the steering during lamellipodium growth. We use a high-resolution surface structuration assay combined with mathematical modeling to describe the growth of a reconstituted lamellipodium. We demonstrate that local monomer depletion at the site of assembly negatively impacts the network growth rate. At the same time, network architecture tunes the protrusion efficiency, and regulates the rate of growth. One consequence of this interdependence between monomer depletion and network architecture effects is the ability of heterogeneous network to impose steering during motility. Therefore, we have established that the general principle, by which the cell can modulate the rate and the direction of a protrusion, is by varying both density and architecture of its actin network.
Modular fluorescence complementation sensors for live cell detection of epigenetic signals at endogenous genomic sites
Authors: Lungu Cristiana , Pinter Sabine , Broche Julian , Rathert Philipp , Jeltsch Albert
Published: September 2017

Investigation of the fundamental role of epigenetic processes requires methods for the locus-specific detection of epigenetic modifications in living cells. Here, we address this urgent demand by developing four modular fluorescence complementation-based epigenetic biosensors for live-cell microscopy applications. These tools combine engineered DNA-binding proteins with domains recognizing defined epigenetic marks, both fused to non-fluorescent fragments of a fluorescent protein. The presence of the epigenetic mark at the target DNA sequence leads to the reconstitution of a functional fluorophore. With this approach, we could for the first time directly detect DNA methylation and histone 3 lysine 9 trimethylation at endogenous genomic sites in live cells and follow dynamic changes in these marks upon drug treatment, induction of epigenetic enzymes and during the cell cycle. We anticipate that this versatile technology will improve our understanding of how specific epigenetic signatures are set, erased and maintained during embryonic development or disease onset.
Non-diffracting multi-﻿electron vortex beams balancing their electron–electron interactions
Authors: Mutzafi Maor , Kaminer Ido , Harari Gal , Segev Mordechai
Published: September 2017

The wave-like nature of electrons has been known for almost a century, but only in recent years has the ability to shape the wavefunction of EBeams (Electron-Beams) become experimentally accessible. Various EBeam wavefunctions have been demonstrated, such as vortex, self-accelerating, Bessel EBeams etc. However, none has attempted to manipulate multi-electron beams, because the repulsion between electrons rapidly alters the beam shape. Here, we show how interference effects of the quantum wavefunction describing multiple electrons can be used to exactly balance both the repulsion and diffraction-broadening. We propose non-diffracting wavepackets of multiple electrons, which can also carry orbital angular momentum. Such wavefunction shaping facilitates the use of multi-electron beams in electron microscopy with higher current without compromising on spatial resolution. Simulating the quantum evolution in three-dimensions and time, we show that imprinting such wavefunctions on electron pulses leads to shape-preserving multi-electrons ultrashort pulses. Our scheme applies to any beams of charged particles, such as protons and ion beams.
Layer- and cell type-selective co-transmission by a basal forebrain cholinergic projection to the olfactory bulb
Authors: Case Daniel T. , Burton Shawn D. , Gedeon Jeremy Y. , Williams Sean-Paul G. , Urban Nathaniel N. , Seal Rebecca P.
Published: September 2017

Cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain project heavily to the main olfactory bulb, the first processing station in the olfactory pathway. The projections innervate multiple layers of the main olfactory bulb and strongly influence odor discrimination, detection, and learning. The precise underlying circuitry of this cholinergic input to the main olfactory bulb remains unclear, however. Here, we identify a specific basal forebrain cholinergic projection that innervates select neurons concentrated in the internal plexiform layer of the main olfactory bulb. Optogenetic activation of this projection elicits monosynaptic nicotinic and GABAergic currents in glomerular layer-projecting interneurons. Additionally, we show that the projection co-expresses markers for GABAergic neurotransmission. The data thus implicate neurotransmitter co-transmission in the basal forebrain regulation of this inhibitory olfactory microcircuit.
Optical dating in a new light: A direct, non-destructive probe of trapped electrons
Authors: Prasad Amit Kumar , Poolton Nigel R. J. , Kook Myungho , Jain Mayank
Published: September 2017

Optical dating has revolutionized our understanding of Global climate change, Earth surface processes, and human evolution and dispersal over the last ~500 ka. Optical dating is based on an anti-Stokes photon emission generated by electron-hole recombination within quartz or feldspar; it relies, by default, on destructive read-out of the stored chronometric information. We present here a fundamentally new method of optical read-out of the trapped electron population in feldspar. The new signal termed as Infra-Red Photo-Luminescence (IRPL) is a Stokes emission (~1.30 eV) derived from NIR excitation (~1.40 eV) on samples previously exposed to ionizing radiation. Low temperature (7–295 K) spectroscopic and time-resolved investigations suggest that IRPL is generated from excited-to-ground state relaxation within the principal (dosimetry) trap. Since IRPL can be induced even in traps remote from recombination centers, it is likely to contain a stable (non-fading), steady-state component. While IRPL is a powerful tool to understand details of the electron-trapping center, it provides a novel, alternative approach to trapped-charge dating based on direct, non-destructive probing of chronometric information. The possibility of repeated readout of IRPL from individual traps will open opportunities for dating at sub-micron spatial resolution, thus, marking a step change in the optical dating technology.
Modelling compartmentalization towards elucidation and engineering of spatial organization in biochemical pathways
Authors: Menon Govind , Okeke Chinedu , Krishnan J.
Published: September 2017

Compartmentalization is a fundamental ingredient, central to the functioning of biological systems at multiple levels. At the cellular level, compartmentalization is a key aspect of the functioning of biochemical pathways and an important element used in evolution. It is also being exploited in multiple contexts in synthetic biology. Accurate understanding of the role of compartments and designing compartmentalized systems needs reliable modelling/systems frameworks. We examine a series of building blocks of signalling and metabolic pathways with compartmental organization. We systematically analyze when compartmental ODE models can be used in these contexts, by comparing these models with detailed reaction-transport models, and establishing a correspondence between the two. We build on this to examine additional complexities associated with these pathways, and also examine sample problems in the engineering of these pathways. Our results indicate under which conditions compartmental models can and cannot be used, why this is the case, and what augmentations are needed to make them reliable and predictive. We also uncover other hidden consequences of employing compartmental models in these contexts. Or results contribute a number of insights relevant to the modelling, elucidation, and engineering of biochemical pathways with compartmentalization, at the core of systems and synthetic biology.
Population resequencing of European mitochondrial genomes highlights sex-bias in Bronze Age demographic expansions
Authors: Batini Chiara , Hallast Pille , Vågene Åshild J. , Zadik Daniel , Eriksen Heidi A. , Pamjav Horolma , Sajantila Antti , Wetton Jon H. , Jobling Mark A.
Published: September 2017

Interpretations of genetic data concerning the prehistory of Europe have long been a subject of great debate, but increasing amounts of ancient and modern DNA data are now providing new and more informative evidence. Y-chromosome resequencing studies in Europe have highlighted the prevalence of recent expansions of male lineages, and focused interest on the Bronze Age as a period of cultural and demographic change. These findings contrast with phylogeographic studies based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), which have been interpreted as supporting expansions from glacial refugia. Here we have undertaken a population-based resequencing of complete mitochondrial genomes in Europe and the Middle East, in 340 samples from 17 populations for which Y-chromosome sequence data are also available. Demographic reconstructions show no signal of Bronze Age expansion, but evidence of Paleolithic expansions in all populations except the Saami, and with an absence of detectable geographical pattern. In agreement with previous inference from modern and ancient DNA data, the unbiased comparison between the mtDNA and Y-chromosome population datasets emphasizes the sex-biased nature of recent demographic transitions in Europe.
Functional neural networks of honesty and dishonesty in children: Evidence from graph theory analysis
Authors: Ding Xiao Pan , Wu Si Jia , Liu Jiangang , Fu Genyue , Lee Kang
Published: September 2017

The present study examined how different brain regions interact with each other during spontaneous honest vs. dishonest communication. More specifically, we took a complex network approach based on the graph-theory to analyze neural response data when children are spontaneously engaged in honest or dishonest acts. Fifty-nine right-handed children between 7 and 12 years of age participated in the study. They lied or told the truth out of their own volition. We found that lying decreased both the global and local efficiencies of children’s functional neural network. This finding, for the first time, suggests that lying disrupts the efficiency of children’s cortical network functioning. Further, it suggests that the graph theory based network analysis is a viable approach to study the neural development of deception.
Electrophysiological Studies in Thyroid Associated Orbitopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Iao Tiara W. U. , Rong Shi Song , Ling An Ni , Brelén Mårten E. , Young Alvin Lerrmann , Chong Kelvin K. L.
Published: September 2017

Dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) is the commonest cause of blindness in thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO). While diagnosis remains clinical, objective tests for eyes with early or equivocal findings are lacking. Various electrophysiological studies (EPS) have been reported, yet the types and parameters useful for DON remain inconclusive. We performed a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane databases via the OVID platform up to August 20, 2017. 437 records were identified for screening and 16 original studies (1327 eyes, 787 patients) were eligible for review. Pattern visual evoked potential (pVEP) was the most frequently studied EPS. Eyes of TAO patients with DON showed delayed P100 latencies, decreased P100 amplitudes or delayed N75 latencies during pVEP, compared to those without or healthy controls. Due to study heterogeneity, no quantitative analysis was possible. This review highlights the most common type (pVEP) and useful parameters (P100 latency and amplitude) of EPS, and supports further research on them using standardized testing conditions.
Whole genome sequencing, molecular typing and in vivo virulence of OXA-48-producing Escherichia coli isolates including ST131 H30-Rx, H22 and H41 subclones
Authors: de Toro María , Fernández Javier , García Vanesa , Mora Azucena , Blanco Jorge , de la Cruz Fernando , Rodicio M. Rosario
Published: September 2017

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, including the increasingly reported OXA-48 Escherichia coli producers, are an emerging public health threat worldwide. Due to their alarming detection in our healthcare setting and their possible presence in the community, seven OXA-48-producing, extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli were analysed by whole genome sequencing as well as conventional tools, and tested for in vivo virulence. As a result, five E. coli OXA-48-producing subclones were detected (O25:H4-ST131/PST43-fimH30-virotype E; O25:H4-ST131/PST9-fimH22-virotype D5, O16:H5-ST131/PST506-fimH41; O25:H5-ST83/PST207 and O9:H25-ST58/PST24). Four ST131 and one ST83 isolates satisfied the ExPEC status, and all except the O16:H5 ST131 isolate were UPEC. All isolates exhibited local inflammatory response with extensive subcutaneous necrosis but low lethality when tested in a mouse sepsis model. The blaOXA-48 gene was located in MOBP131/IncL plasmids (four isolates) or within the chromosome (three ST131 H30-Rx isolates), carried by Tn1999-like elements. All, except the ST83 isolate, were multidrug-resistant, with additional plasmids acting as vehicles for the spread of various resistance genes. This is the first study to analyse the whole genome sequences of blaOXA-48-positive ST131, ST58 and ST83 E. coli isolates in conjunction with experimental data, and to evaluate the in vivo virulence of blaOXA-48 isolates, which pose an important challenge to patient management.
Resilience of the larval slipper limpet Crepidula onyx to direct and indirect-diet effects of ocean acidification
Authors: Maboloc Elizaldy A. , Chan Kit Yu Karen
Published: September 2017

Ocean acidification (OA) is known to directly impact larval physiology and development of many marine organisms. OA also affects the nutritional quality and palatability of algae, which are principal food sources for many types of planktonic larvae. This potential indirect effect of OA via trophic interactions, however, has not been fully explored. In this study, veligers of Crepidula onyx were exposed to different pH levels representing the ambient (as control) and low pH values (pH 7.7 and pH 7.3) for 14 days, and were fed with Isochrysis galbana cultured at these three respective pHs. pH, diet, nor their interactions had no effect on larval mortality. Decrease in pH alone had a significant effect on growth rate and shell size. Structural changes (increased porosity) in larval shells were also observed in the low pH treatments. Interactions between acidification and reduced diet quality promoted earlier settlement. Unlike other calcifying molluscs, this population of slipper limpets introduced to Hong Kong in 1960s appeared to be resilient to OA and decreased algal nutritional value. If this robustness observed in the laboratory applies to the field, competition with native invertebrates may intensify and this non-native snail could flourish in acidified coastal ecosystems.
Trap diversity and character evolution in carnivorous bladderworts (Utricularia, Lentibulariaceae)
Authors: Westermeier Anna Sofia , Fleischmann Andreas , Müller Kai , Schäferhoff Bastian , Rubach Carmen , Speck Thomas , Poppinga Simon
Published: September 2017

Bladderworts (Utricularia, Lentibulariaceae, Lamiales) constitute the largest genus of carnivorous plants but only aquatic species (about one fifth of the genus) have so far been thoroughly studied as to their suction trap functioning. In this study, we comparatively investigated trap biomechanics in 19 Utricularia species to examine correlations between life-forms, trapping mechanisms, and functional-morphological traits. Our investigations show the existence of two functional trap principles (passive trap in U. multifida vs. active suction traps), and – in active suction traps – three main trapdoor movement types (with several subtypes). The trapdoor movement types and their corresponding functional-morphological features most presumably represent adaptations to the respective habitat. We furthermore give insights into fluid dynamics during suction in three representatives of the main types of trapdoor movement. The results on functional morphology and trapdoor movement were mapped onto a new phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus, derived from the rapidly evolving chloroplast regions trnK, rps16 and trnQ-rps16 and a sampling of 105 Utricularia species in total. We discuss potential scenarios of trap character evolution and species radiation, highlighting possible key innovations that enable such a unique carni﻿vorous lifestyle in different habitats.
Polarization-entangled photon generation using partial spatially coherent pump beam
Authors: Ismail Yaseera , Joshi Stuti , Petruccione Francesco
Published: September 2017

The generation of two photon fields, to date, has been demonstrated utilizing a fully coherent pump beam. In this paper we demonstrate, the theoretical and experimental generation of polarization entangled single photon pairs by varying the spatial coherence of the pump beam. The effect of the pump beam spatial coherence on the visibility of a polarization-entangled single photon source is investigated. A comparison of the visibility measurements using a fully coherent and partially coherent pump beam is performed. It is shown that the partial coherence of the pump beam contributes to an increase in the visibility. The coherence properties of the beam are significant for free-space optical transmission in particular for long range free-space quantum communication.
Process signatures in glatiramer acetate synthesis: structural and functional relationships
Authors: Campos-García Víctor R. , Herrera-Fernández Daniel , Espinosa-de la Garza Carlos E. , González German , Vallejo-Castillo Luis , Avila Sandra , Muñoz-García Leslie , Medina-Rivero Emilio , Pérez Néstor O. , Gracia-Mora Isabel , Pérez-Tapia Sonia Mayra , Salazar-Ceballos Rodolfo , Pavón Lenin , Flores-Ortiz Luis F.
Published: September 2017

Glatiramer Acetate (GA) is an immunomodulatory medicine approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, whose mechanisms of action are yet to be fully elucidated. GA is comprised of a complex mixture of polypeptides with different amino acid sequences and structures. The lack of sensible information about physicochemical characteristics of GA has contributed to its comprehensiveness complexity. Consequently, an unambiguous determination of distinctive attributes that define GA is of highest relevance towards dissecting its identity. Herein we conducted a study of characteristic GA heterogeneities throughout its manufacturing process (process signatures), revealing a strong impact of critical process parameters (CPPs) on the reactivity of amino acid precursors; reaction initiation and polymerization velocities; and peptide solubility, susceptibility to hydrolysis, and size-exclusion properties. Further, distinctive GA heterogeneities were correlated to defined immunological and toxicological profiles, revealing that GA possesses a unique repertoire of active constituents (epitopes) responsible of its immunological responses, whose modification lead to altered profiles. This novel approach established CPPs influence on intact GA peptide mixture, whose physicochemical identity cannot longer rely on reduced properties (based on complete or partial GA degradation), providing advanced knowledge on GA structural and functional relationships to ensure a consistent manufacturing of safe and effective products.
Differentially expressed genes and canonical pathways in the ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm – The Tampere Vascular Study
Authors: Sulkava Miska , Raitoharju Emma , Mennander Ari , Levula Mari , Seppälä Ilkka , Lyytikäinen Leo-Pekka , Järvinen Otso , Illig Thomas , Klopp Norman , Mononen Nina , Laaksonen Reijo , Kähönen Mika , Oksala Niku , Lehtimäki Terho
Published: September 2017

Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA) is a multifactorial disease with a strong inflammatory component. Surgery is often required to prevent aortic rupture and dissection. We performed gene expression analysis (Illumina HumanHT-12 version 3 Expression BeadChip) for 32 samples from ATAA (26 without/6 with dissection), and 28 left internal thoracic arteries (controls) collected in Tampere Vascular study. We compared expression profiles and conducted pathway analysis using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to reveal differences between ATAA and a healthy artery wall. Almost 5000 genes were differentially expressed in ATAA samples compared to controls. The most downregulated gene was homeobox (HOX) A5 (fold change, FC = −25.3) and upregulated cadherin-2 (FC = 12.6). Several other HOX genes were also found downregulated (FCs between -25.3 and -1.5, FDR < 0.05). 43, mostly inflammatory, canonical pathways in ATAA were found to be significantly (p < 0.05, FDR < 0.05) differentially expressed. The results remained essentially the same when the 6 dissected ATAA samples were excluded from the analysis. We show for the first time on genome level that ATAA is an inflammatory process, revealing a more detailed molecular pathway level pathogenesis. We propose HOX genes as potentially important players in maintaining aortic integrity, altered expression of which might be important in the pathobiology of ATAA.
“Optical and Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering properties of Ag modified silicon double nanocone array”
Authors: Mehrvar L. , Sadeghipari M. , Tavassoli S. H. , Mohajerzadeh S. , Fathipour M.
Published: September 2017

Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) systems with large number of active sites exhibit superior capability in detection of low concentration analytes. In this paper, we present theoretical as well as experimental studies on the optical properties of a unique hybrid nanostructure, Ag NPs decorated silicon double nanocones (Si-DNCs) array, which provide high density of hot spots. The Si-DNC array is fabricated by employing electron beam lithography together with plasma etching process. Multipole analysis of the scattering spectra, based on the multipole expansion theory, confirms that the toroidal dipole moment dominates over other electric and magnetic multipole moments in the Si-DNCs array. This response occurs as a result of generating current densities flowing in opposite directions and consequently generating H-field vortexes inside the nanocones. Moreover, SERS applicability of this type of nanostructure is examined. For this purpose, the Si-DNCs array is decorated with Ag nanoparticles (NPs) by means of electroless deposition method. Simulation results indicate that combination of multiple resonances, including LSPR resonance of Ag NPs, longitudinal standing wave resonance of Ag layer and inter-particle interaction in the gap region, result in a significant SERS enhancement. Our experimental results demonstrate that Si-DNC/Ag NPs array substrate provides excellent reproducibility and ultrahigh sensitivity.
Asymmetric Electron-Hole Decoherence in Ion-Gated Epitaxial Graphene
Authors: Min Kil-Joon , Park Jaesung , Kim Wan-Seop , Chae Dong-Hun
Published: September 2017

We report on asymmetric electron-hole decoherence in epitaxial graphene gated by an ionic liquid. The observed negative magnetoresistance near zero magnetic field for different gate voltages, analyzed in the framework of weak localization, gives rise to distinct electron-hole decoherence. The hole decoherence rate increases prominently with decreasing negative gate voltage while the electron decoherence rate does not exhibit any substantial gate dependence. Quantitatively, the hole decoherence rate is as large as the electron decoherence rate by a factor of two. We discuss possible microscopic origins including spin-exchange scattering consistent with our experimental observations.
Strain-dependent neutralization reveals antigenic variation of human parechovirus 3
Authors: Karelehto Eveliina , van der Sanden Sabine , Geraets James A. , Domanska Aušra , van der Linden Lonneke , Hoogendoorn Dionne , Koen Gerrit , van Eijk Hetty , Shakeel Shabih , Beaumont Tim , de Jong Menno , Pajkrt Dasja , Butcher Sarah J. , Wolthers Katja C.
Published: September 2017

Human parechovirus 3 (HPeV3), a member of the Picornavirus family, is frequently detected worldwide. However, the observed seropositivity rates for HPeV3 neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) vary from high in Japan to low in the Netherlands and Finland. To study if this can be explained by technical differences or antigenic diversity among HPeV3 strains included in the serological studies, we determined the neutralizing activity of Japanese and Dutch intravenous immunoglobulin batches (IVIG), a rabbit HPeV3 hyperimmune polyclonal serum, and a human HPeV3-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) AT12-015, against the HPeV3 A308/99 prototype strain and clinical isolates from Japan, the Netherlands and Australia, collected between 1989 and 2015. The rabbit antiserum neutralized all HPeV3 isolates whereas the neutralization capacity of the IVIG batches varied, and the mAb exclusively neutralized the A308/99 strain. Mapping of the amino acid variation among a subset of the HPeV3 strains on an HPeV3 capsid structure revealed that the majority of the surface-exposed amino acid variation was located in the VP1. Furthermore, amino acid mutations in a mAb AT12-015-resistant HPeV3 A308/99 variant indicated the location for potential antigenic determinants. Virus aggregation and the observed antigenic diversity in HPeV3 can explain the varying levels of nAb seropositivity reported in previous studies.
Split dosing of artemisinins does not improve antimalarial therapeutic efficacy
Authors: White N. J. , Watson J. , Ashley E. A.
Published: September 2017

It has been suggested recently, based on pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modelling exercises, that twice daily dosing of artemisinins increases malaria parasite killing and so could “dramatically enhance and restore drug effectiveness” in artemisinin resistant P. falciparum malaria infections. It was recommended that split dosing should be incorporated into all artemisinin combination regimen designs. To explain why parasite clearance rates were not faster with split dose regimens it was concluded that splenic malaria parasite clearance capacity was readily exceeded, resulting in the accumulation of dead parasites in the circulation, that parasite clearance was therefore an unreliable measure of drug efficacy, and instead that human immunity is the primary determinant of clearance rates. To test these various hypotheses we performed a logistic meta-regression analysis of cure rates from all falciparum malaria treatment trials (n = 40) with monotherapy arms containing artemisinin or a derivative (76 arms). There was no evidence that split dosing enhanced cure rates.
Evaluation of biochars from different stock materials as carriers of bacterial strain for remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil
Authors: Wang Ting , Sun Hongwen , Ren Xinhao , Li Bing , Mao Hongjun
Published: September 2017

Two kinds of biochars, one derived from corn straw and one from pig manure, were studied as carriers of a mutant genotype from Bacillus subtilis (B38) for heavy metal contaminated soil remediation. After amendment with biochar, the heavy metal bioavailability decreased. Moreover, the heavy metal immobilization ability of the biochar was enhanced by combining it with B38. The simultaneous application of B38 and pig manure-derived biochar exhibited a superior effect on the promotion of plant growth and the immobilization of heavy metals in soil. The plant biomass increased by 37.9% and heavy metal concentrations in the edible part of lettuce decreased by 69.9–96.1%. The polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) profiles revealed that pig manure-derived biochar could enhance the proliferation of both exotic B38 and native microbes. These results suggest that B38 carried by pig manure-derived biochar may be a promising candidate for the remediation of soils contaminated by multiple heavy metals.
Potential effects of an invasive seaweed (Caulerpa cylindracea, Sonder) on sedimentary organic matter and microbial metabolic activities
Authors: Rizzo Lucia , Pusceddu Antonio , Stabili Loredana , Alifano Pietro , Fraschetti Simonetta
Published: September 2017

Caulerpa cylindracea (Sonder), among the most successful marine bio-invaders on a global scale, poses severe threats to biodiversity. However, the effects of this seaweed on the quantity and the biochemical composition of sedimentary organic matter are still poorly known. Since the whole set of sedimentary features affects the availability of substrates for benthic microbial communities, we: i) investigated the biochemical composition of sediments colonized and not-colonized by C. cylindracea, and ii) compared the metabolic patterns of the microbial communities associated with C. cylindracea and in the sediments colonized and not-colonized by the seaweed. Our results show that C. cylindracea can influence the quantity and biochemical composition of sedimentary organic matter (OM), and that microbial populations associated with colonized sediments do have specific metabolic patterns and degradation capacities. Caulerpa cylindracea can also influence the metabolic patterns of the microbial community specifically adapted to degrade compounds released by the seaweed itself, with possible consequences on C cycling.
Single tube gene synthesis by phosphoramidate chemical ligation
Authors: El-Sagheer Afaf H. , Brown Tom
Published: September 2017

Templated chemical ligation of 5′-amino and 3′-phosphate oligonucleotides was used to synthesise a 762 base pair gene for green fluorescent protein.
The acid promoted Petasis reaction of organotrifluoroborates with imines and enamines
Authors: Carrera Diane E.
Published: September 2017

The acid promoted addition of organotrifluoroborate salts to imine and enamine electrophiles is reported. Use of the trifluoroborate bypasses the need for α-hetero substitution on the electrophile, greatly expanding the scope of the Petasis borono–Mannich reaction. A variety of vinyl, aromatic and heteroaromatic trifluoroborate salts undergo addition with good efficiency under mild conditions.
Organoactinides in catalytic transformations: scope, mechanisms and Quo Vadis
Authors: Liu Heng , Ghatak Tapas , Eisen Moris S.
Published: September 2017

The last decade has witnessed brilliant and remarkable advances in the chemistry of the early actinides in stoichiometric and in challenging catalytic processes. This canvas of knowledge allows the design of chemical reactivities reaching a high level of sophistication. This review highlights the latest results obtained since 2008 on those catalytic processes.
Rapid and ordered carbonylation and oxygenation of a cobalt(ii) methyl
Authors: Reinig Regina R. , Fought Ellie L. , Ellern Arkady , Windus Theresa L. , Sadow Aaron D.
Published: September 2017

ToMCoMe reacts rapidly with CO to give a low spin ToMCo{C(O)Me}CO species, which is selectively oxygenated to form ToMCoOAc.
Use of long-term stable CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots in phospho-silicate glass for highly efficient white LEDs
Authors: Di Xiaoxuan , Hu Zemin , Jiang Jutao , He Meiling , Zhou Lei , Xiang Weidong , Liang Xiaojuan
Published: September 2017

We report the synthesis of CsPbBr3 QDs with great stability and high quantum yield in phospho-silicate glass, which was fabricated by using a heat-treatment approach, for white light emitting devices.
One, two, and three-dimensional metal–organic coordination polymers derived from enantiopure organic phosphorate: homochirality, water stability and proton conduction
Authors: Liang Xiaoqiang , Cai Kun , Zhang Feng , Liu Jia , Zhu Guangshan
Published: September 2017

A multifunctional ligand reacts with metal ions to generate three new coordination polymers, where 3 has a high water stability, a moderate proton conductivity and a lower activation energy.
Augmented pH-sensitivity absorbance of a ruthenium(ii) bis(bipyridine) complex with elongation of the conjugated ligands: an experimental and theoretical investigation
Authors: San Tan Siew , Yanagisawa Susumu , Inagaki Kouji , Morikawa Yoshitada , Kassim Mohammad B.
Published: September 2017

The elongation of the conjugated path length in a ruthenium complex resulted in a greater pH sensitivity in absorption, and a delocalized distribution of the density response leads to a higher absorption intensity.
Charge distribution from SKPM images
Authors: Gonzalez J. F. , Somoza A. M. , Palacios-Lidón E.
Published: September 2017

Surface charge distribution from SKPM images: the inverse problem. A sub-tip resolution method to obtain positions and charges from Kelvin images.
The difficult search for organocerium(iv) compounds
Authors: Anwander Reiner , Dolg Michael , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: September 2017

This Tutorial Review provides an overview of the historic and current development of the organometallic chemistry of cerium in its oxidation state 4+.
Synthetic [NiFe] models with a fluxional CO ligand
Authors: Chu Xiaoxiao , Yu Xin , Raje Sakthi , Angamuthu Raja , Ma Jianping , Tung Chen-Ho , Wang Wenguang
Published: September 2017

A [NiFe] complex [(dppe)Ni(pdt)FeCp*(CO)]BF4 was characterized as two isomers, and their interconversions were established by thermal process and electrochemistry.
Small iron–carbonyl clusters bearing imidazolium-2-trithioperoxycarboxylate ligands
Authors: Beltrán Tomás F. , Zaragoza Guillermo , Delaude Lionel
Published: September 2017

The reaction of [Fe2(CO)9] with NHC·CS2zwitterions unexpectedly afforded two novel “sulfur-enriched” diiron hexacarbonyl clusters bearing imidazolium-2-trithioperoxycarboxylate ligands.