bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asthma prescribing, ethnicity and risk of hospital admission: an analysis of 35,864 linked primary and secondary care records in East London
Authors: Hull Sally A , McKibben Shauna , Homer Kate , Taylor Stephanie JC , Pike Katy , Griffiths Chris
Published: August 2016

Inappropriate prescribing in primary care was implicated in nearly half of asthma deaths reviewed in the UK’s recent National Review of Asthma Deaths. Using anonymised EMIS-Web data for 139 ethnically diverse general practices (total population 942,511) extracted from the North and East London Commissioning Support Unit, which holds hospital Secondary Uses Services (SUS)–linked data, we examined the prevalence of over-prescribing of short-acting β2-agonist inhalers (SABA), under-prescribing of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) inhalers and solo prescribing of long-acting β2-agonists (LABA) to assess the risk of hospitalisation for people with asthma for 1 year ending August 2015. In a total asthma population of 35,864, multivariate analyses in adults showed that the risk of admission increased with greater prescription of SABA inhalers above a baseline of 1–3 (4–12 SABA: odds ratio (OR) 1.71; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–2.46, ⩾13 SABA: OR 3.22; 95% CI 2.04–5.07) with increasing British Thoracic Society step (Step 3: OR 2.90; 95% CI 1.79–4.69, Step 4/5: OR 9.42; 95% CI 5.27–16.84), and among Black (OR 2.30; 95% CI 1.64–3.23) and south Asian adult populations (OR 1.83; 95% CI 1.36–2.47). Results in children were similar, but risk of hospitalisation was not related to ethnic group. There is a progressive risk of hospital admission associated with the prescription of more than three SABA inhalers a year. Adults (but not children) from Black and South Asian groups are at an increased risk of admission. Further work is needed to target care for these at-risk groups.
Traffic noise reduces foraging efficiency in wild owls
Authors: Senzaki Masayuki , Yamaura Yuichi , Francis Clinton D. , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: August 2016

Anthropogenic noise has been increasing globally. Laboratory experiments suggest that noise disrupts foraging behavior across a range of species, but to reveal the full impacts of noise, we must examine the impacts of noise on foraging behavior among species in the wild. Owls are widespread nocturnal top predators and use prey rustling sounds for localizing prey when hunting. We conducted field experiments to examine the effect of traffic noise on owls’ ability to detect prey. Results suggest that foraging efficiency declines with increasing traffic noise levels due to acoustic masking and/or distraction and aversion to traffic noise. Moreover, we estimate that effects of traffic noise on owls’ ability to detect prey reach >120 m from a road, which is larger than the distance estimated from captive studies with bats. Our study provides the first evidence that noise reduces foraging efficiency in wild animals and highlights the possible pervasive impacts of noise.
Multi-host model and threshold of intermediate host Oncomelania snail density for eliminating schistosomiasis transmission in China
Authors: Zhou Yi-Biao , Chen Yue , Liang Song , Song Xiu-Xia , Chen Geng-Xin , He Zhong , Cai Bin , Yihuo Wu-Li , He Zong-Gui , Jiang Qing-Wu
Published: August 2016

Schistosomiasis remains a serious public health issue in many tropical countries, with more than 700 million people at risk of infection. In China, a national integrated control strategy, aiming at blocking its transmission, has been carried out throughout endemic areas since 2005. A longitudinal study was conducted to determine the effects of different intervention measures on the transmission dynamics of S. japonicum in three study areas and the data were analyzed using a multi-host model. The multi-host model was also used to estimate the threshold of Oncomelania snail density for interrupting schistosomiasis transmission based on the longitudinal data as well as data from the national surveillance system for schistosomiasis. The data showed a continuous decline in the risk of human infection and the multi-host model fit the data well. The 25th, 50th and 75th percentiles and the mean of estimated thresholds of Oncomelania snail density below which the schistosomiasis transmission cannot be sustained were 0.006, 0.009, 0.028 and 0.020 snails/0.11 m2, respectively. The study results could help develop specific strategies of schistosomiasis control and elimination tailored to the local situation for each endemic area.
Revisit the Correlation between the Elastic Mechanics and Fusion of Lipid Membranes
Authors: Fan Zih-An , Tsang Kuan-Yu , Chen Si-Han , Chen Yi-Fan
Published: August 2016

Membrane fusion is a vital process in key cellular events. The fusion capability of a membrane depends on its elastic properties and varies with its lipid composition. It is believed that as the composition varies, the consequent change in C0 (monolayer spontaneous curvature) is the major factor dictating fusion, owing to the associated variation in GEs (elastic energies) of the fusion intermediates (e.g. stalk). By exploring the correlations among fusion, C0 and Kcp (monolayer bending modulus), we revisit this long-held belief and re-examine the fusogenic contributions of some relevant factors. We observe that not only C0 but also Kcp variations affect fusion, with depression in Kcp leading to suppression in fusion. Variations in GEs and inter-membrane interactions cannot account for the Kcp-fusion correlation; fusion is suppressed even as the GEs decrease with Kcp, indicating the presence of factor(s) with fusogenic importance overtaking that of GE. Furthermore, analyses find that the C0 influence on fusion is effected via modulating GE of the pre-fusion planar membrane, rather than stalk. The results support a recent proposition calling for a paradigm shift from the conventional view of fusion and may reshape our understanding to the roles of fusogenic proteins in regulating cellular fusion machineries.
Validation of the Medication Adherence Rating Scale in homeless patients with schizophrenia: Results from the French Housing First experience
Authors: Zemmour K. , Tinland A. , Boucekine M. , Girard V. , Loubière S. , Resseguier N. , Fond G. , Auquier P. , Boyer L. ,   French Housing First Study Group, Apostolidis T. , Birmes P. , Bossetti T. , Bouloudnine R. , Combes B. , Debieve J. , Falissard B. , Greacen T. , Laval C. , Lancon C. , Le Cardinal P. , Mantovani J. , Moreau D. , Naudin J. , Rhunter P. , Videau B.
Published: August 2016

The Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS) is one of the most widely used measurements of adherence in schizophrenia (SZ), but there is no available data regarding its psychometric properties in homeless SZ patients (HSZ). The aim of this study was therefore to assess the psychometric properties of the MARS in a large multicenter sample of HSZ subjects. This multi-centre prospective study was conducted in the following 4 French cities: Lille, Marseille, Paris and Toulouse. Three hundred and fifty-three patients were included. The 3-factor structure of the MARS was confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis: RMSEA = 0.045, CFI = 0.98, TLI = 0.97 and WRMR = 0.76. The unidimensionality of each factor was supported by the satisfactory INFIT statistics. Item internal consistencies were all higher than 0.20 and the Kuder–Richardson were higher than to 0.6, except for factor 2, which was closed to 0.5. Significant associations with symptoms, functioning and quality of life showed satisfactory external validity. The acceptability was satisfactory with missing data lower than 5% for each dimension. The MARS is a short self-administered instrument with acceptable psychometric properties in homeless SZ patients that yields interesting information about medication adherence.
Endovascular ischemic stroke models of adult rhesus monkeys: a comparison of two endovascular methods
Authors: Wu Di , Chen Jian , Wang Bincheng , Zhang Mo , Shi Jingfei , Ma Yanhui , Zhu Zixin , Yan Feng , He Xiaoduo , Li Shengli , Dornbos III David , Ding Yuchuan , Ji Xunming
Published: August 2016

To further investigate and improve upon current stroke models in nonhuman primates, infarct size, neurologic function and survival were evaluated in two endovascular ischemic models in sixteen rhesus monkeys. The first method utilized a micro-catheter or an inflatable balloon to occlude the M1 segment in six monkeys. In the second model, an autologous clot was injected via a micro-catheter into the M1 segment in ten monkeys. MRI scanning was performed on all monkeys both at baseline and 3 hours after the onset of ischemia. Spetzler neurologic functions were assessed post-operatively, and selective perfusion deficits were confirmed by DSA and MRI in all monkeys. Animals undergoing micro-catheter or balloon occlusion demonstrated more profound hemiparesis, larger infarct sizes, lower Spetzler neurologic scores and increased mortality compared to the thrombus occlusion group. In animals injected with the clot, there was no evidence of dissolution, and the thrombus was either near the injection site (M1) or flushed into the superior division of the MCA (M2). All animals survived the M2 occlusion. M1 occlusion with thrombus generated 50% mortality. This study highlighted clinically important differences in these two models, providing a platform for further study of a translational thromboembolic model of acute ischemic stroke.
Systematic analysis of the regulatory functions of microRNAs in chicken hepatic lipid metabolism
Authors: Li Hong , Ma Zheng , Jia Lijuan , Li Yanmin , Xu Chunlin , Wang Taian , Han Ruili , Jiang Ruirui , Li Zhuanjian , Sun Guirong , Kang Xiangtao , Liu Xiaojun
Published: August 2016

Laying performance is an important economic trait in hens and this physiological process is largely influenced by the liver function. The livers of hens at 20- and 30-week-old stages were investigated using the next generation sequencing to identify the differences of microRNA expression profiles. Compared with the 20-week-old hens, 67 down- and 13 up-regulated microRNAs were verified to be significant differentially expressed (false discovery rate, FDR ≤ 0.05) (SDE) in the 30-week-old. We also identified 13 down- and 6 up-regulated novel differentially expressed (DE) microRNAs. miR-22-3p and miR-146b-5p, which exhibit critical roles in mammalian lipid metabolism, showed the most abundant expression and the highest fold-change, respectively. A total of 648 potential target genes of the SDE microRNAs were identified through an integrated analysis of microRNAs and the DE genes obtained in previous RNA-sequencing, includingFADS1,FADS2, ELOVL6andACSL5, which are critical lipid metabolism-related regulators. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that target genes were mainly enriched in lipid-related metabolism processes. This work provides the first study of the expression patterns of hepatic microRNAs between 20- and 30-week old hens. The findings may serve as a fundamental resource for understanding the detailed functions of microRNAs in the molecular regulatory systems of lipid metabolism.
Endosome-mediated endocytic mechanism replenishes the majority of synaptic vesicles at mature CNS synapses in an activity-dependent manner
Authors: Park Joohyun , Cho Oh Yeon , Kim Jung Ah , Chang Sunghoe
Published: August 2016

Whether synaptic vesicles (SVs) are recovered via endosome-mediated pathways is a matter of debate; however, recent evidence suggests that clathrin-independent bulk endocytosis (CIE) via endosomes is functional and preferentially replenishes SV pools during strong stimulation. Here, using brefeldin-A (BFA) to block CIE, we found that CIE retrieved a minority of SVs at developing CNS synapses during strong stimulation, but its contribution increased up to 61% at mature CNS synapses. Contrary to previous views, BFA not only blocked SV formation from the endosome but also blocked the endosome formation at the plasma membrane. Adaptor protein 1 and 3 (AP-1/3) have key roles in SV reformation from endosomes during CIE, and AP-1 also affects bulk endosome formation from the plasma membrane. Finally, temporary blocking of chronic or acute neuronal activity with tetrodotoxin in mature neurons redirected most SV retrieval to endosome-independent pathways. These results show that during high neuronal activity, CIE becomes the major endocytic pathway at mature CNS synapses. Moreover, mature neurons use clathrin-mediated endocytosis and the CIE pathway to different extents depending on their previous activity; this may result in activity-dependent alterations of the SV composition which ultimately influence transmitter release and contribute to synaptic plasticity.
HematoPorphyrin Monomethyl Ether polymer contrast agent for ultrasound/photoacoustic dual-modality imaging-guided synergistic high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy
Authors: Yan Sijing , LU Min , Ding Xiaoya , Chen Fei , He Xuemei , Xu Chunyan , Zhou Hang , Wang Qi , Hao Lan , Zou Jianzhong
Published: August 2016

This study is to prepare a hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (HMME/PLGA), which could not only function as efficient contrast agent for ultrasound (US)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging, but also as a synergistic agent for high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation. Sonosensitizer HMME nanoparticles were integrated into PLGA microcapsules with the double emulsion evaporation method. After characterization, the cell-killing and cell proliferation-inhibiting effects of HMME/PLGA microcapsules on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells were assessed. The US/PA imaging-enhancing effects and synergistic effects on HIFU were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. HMME/PLGA microcapsules were highly dispersed with well-defined spherical morphology (357 ± 0.72 nm in diameter, PDI = 0.932). Encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading efficiency were 58.33 ± 0.95% and 4.73 ± 0.15%, respectively. The HMME/PLGA microcapsules remarkably killed the SKOV3 cells and inhibited the cell proliferation, significantly enhanced the US/PA imaging results and greatly enhanced the HIFU ablation effects on ovarian cancer in nude mice by the HMME-mediated sono-dynamic chemistry therapy (SDT). HMME/PLGA microcapsules represent a potential multifunctional contrast agent for HIFU diagnosis and treatment, which might provide a novel strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy for cancers by SDT in clinic.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad essential oil attenuate the effects of traumatic brain injuries in rats
Authors: Abbasloo Elham , Dehghan Fatemeh , Khaksari Mohammad , Najafipour Hamid , Vahidi Reza , Dabiri Shahriar , Sepehri Gholamreza , Asadikaram Gholamreza
Published: August 2016

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major health concern affecting the general public as well as military personnel. However, there is no FDA-approved therapy for the treatment of TBIs. In this work, we investigated the neurotherapeutic effects of the well-known natural Iranian medicine Satureja Khuzistanica Jamzad (SKJ) essential oil (SKEO) on the outcomes of diffused experimental TBI, with particular attention paid to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Male Wistar rats were treated with doses of 50, 100 and 200 (mg/kg, i.p) SKEO after induction of diffused TBIs. The results showed that injecting SKEO (200 mg/kg) 30 minutes after TBI significantly reduced brain oedema and damage to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and limited the post-TBI increase in intracranial pressure. The veterinary coma scale (VCS) scores significantly improved in the treatment group. Also, inflammatory marker assays showed reduced levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and increased IL-10 in the treated groups. Moreover, the immunohistochemical results indicated that SKEO not only reduced neuronal death and BBB permeability but also affected astrocytic activation. Overall, our data indicate potential clinical neurological applications for SKEO.
MASP-3 is the exclusive pro-factor D activator in resting blood: the lectin and the alternative complement pathways are fundamentally linked
Authors: Dobó József , Szakács Dávid , Oroszlán Gábor , Kortvely Elod , Kiss Bence , Boros Eszter , Szász Róbert , Závodszky Péter , Gál Péter , Pál Gábor
Published: August 2016

MASP-3 was discovered 15 years ago as the third mannan-binding lectin (MBL)-associated serine protease of the complement lectin pathway. Lacking any verified substrate its role remained ambiguous. MASP-3 was shown to compete with a key lectin pathway enzyme MASP-2 for MBL binding, and was therefore considered to be a negative complement regulator. Later, knock-out mice experiments suggested that MASP-1 and/or MASP-3 play important roles in complement pro-factor D (pro-FD) maturation. However, studies on a MASP-1/MASP-3-deficient human patient produced contradicting results. In normal resting blood unperturbed by ongoing coagulation or complement activation, factor D is present predominantly in its active form, suggesting that resting blood contains at least one pro-FD activating proteinase that is not a direct initiator of coagulation or complement activation. We have recently showed that all three MASPs can activate pro-FD in vitro. In resting blood, however, using our previously evolved MASP-1 and MASP-2 inhibitors we proved that neither MASP-1 nor MASP-2 activates pro-FD. Other plasma proteinases, particularly MASP-3, remained candidates for that function. For this study we evolved a specific MASP-3 inhibitor and unambiguously proved that activated MASP-3 is the exclusive pro-FD activator in resting blood, which demonstrates a fundamental link between the lectin and alternative pathways.
Forest roadsides harbour less competitive habitats for a relict mountain plant (Pulsatilla vernalis) in lowlands
Authors: Zielińska Katarzyna M. , Kiedrzyński Marcin , Grzyl Andrzej , Rewicz Agnieszka
Published: August 2016

The long-term survival of relict populations depends on the accessibility of appropriate sites (microrefugia). In recent times, due to the mass extinction of rare species that has resulted from the loss of natural habitats, the question is – Are there any human-made sites that can act as refugial habitats? We examined forest roadside populations of the mountain plant Pulsatilla vernalis in the last large lowland refugium in Central Europe. We compared the habitat conditions and community structure of roadsides with P. vernalis against the forest interior. Light availability and bryophyte composition were the main factors that distinguished roadsides. Pulsatilla occurred on sites that had more light than the forest interior, but were also more or less shaded by trees, so more light came as one-side illumination from the road. Roadsides had also a lower coverage of bryophytes that formed large, dense carpets. At the same time, they were characterised by a greater richness of vascular plants and ‘small’ bryophytes, which corresponds to a higher frequency of disturbances. In a warming and more fertile Anthropocene world, competition plays the main role in the transformation of forest communities, which is why relict populations have found refugia in extensively disturbed human-made habitats.
Defaunation leads to microevolutionary changes in a tropical palm
Authors: Carvalho Carolina S. , Galetti Mauro , Colevatti Rosane G. , Jordano Pedro
Published: August 2016

Many large species have declined worldwide due to habitat fragmentation and poaching. The defaunation of large frugivores and the consequent reductions of seed dispersal services may have immediate effects on plant demography. Yet, the lasting effects of frugivore defaunation on microevolutionary processes of the plants they disperse remain understudied. We tested if the loss of large seed dispersers can lead to microevolutionary changes of a tropical palm. We show that frugivore defaunation is the main driver of changes in allelic frequency among populations. Turnover of alleles accounted for 100% of dissimilarity in allelic frequencies of individuals between defaunated and non-defaunated forests; and individuals from defaunated sites are 1.5 times more similar genetically than those found in pristine sites. Given that sizeable fractions of the palm fruit crops remain undispersed in defaunated sites due to lack of large-bodied frugivores, this distinct pattern of gene pool composition of early recruits may reveal strong dispersal limitation for specific genotypes, or collapses of gene flow between fragmented areas, or both. Because most of tropical tree species rely on seed dispersal by vertebrates, our results show that defaunation has a lasting effect on microevolutionary processes, with potential consequences for persistence under scenarios of environmental change.
Insights into the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of V-doped copper clusters: comparison with pure copper clusters
Authors: Die Dong , Zheng Ben-Xia , Zhao Lan-Qiong , Zhu Qi-Wen , Zhao Zheng-Quan
Published: August 2016

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Cun+1and CunV (n = 1–12) clusters have been investigated by using density functional theory. The growth behaviors reveal that V atom in low-energy CunV isomer favors the most highly coordinated position and changes the geometry of the three-dimensional host clusters. The vibrational spectra are predicted and can be used to identify the ground state. The relative stability and chemical activity of the ground states are analyzed through the binding energy per atom, energy second-order difference and energy gap. It is found that that the stability of CunV (n ≥ 8) is higher than that of Cun+1. The substitution of a V atom for a Cu atom in copper clusters alters the odd-even oscillations of stability and activity of the host clusters. The vertical ionization potential, electron affinity and photoelectron spectrum are calculated and simulated for all of the most stable clusters. Compare with the experimental data, we determine the ground states of pure copper clusters. The magnetism analyses show that the magnetic moments of CunV clusters are mainly localized on the V atom and decease with the increase of cluster size. The magnetic change is closely related to the charge transfer between V and Cu atoms.
Influence of elevated-CRP level-related polymorphisms in non-rheumatic Caucasians on the risk of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: López-Mejías Raquel , Genre Fernanda , Remuzgo-Martínez Sara , González-Juanatey Carlos , Robustillo-Villarino Montserrat , Llorca Javier , Corrales Alfonso , Vicente Esther , Miranda-Filloy José A. , Magro César , Tejera-Segura Beatriz , Ramírez Huaranga Marco A. , Pina Trinitario , Blanco Ricardo , Alegre-Sancho Juan J. , Raya Enrique , Mijares Verónica , Ubilla Begoña , Mínguez Sánchez María D. , Gómez-Vaquero Carmen , Balsa Alejandro , Pascual-Salcedo Dora , López-Longo Francisco J. , Carreira Patricia , González-Álvaro Isidoro , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Luis , Fernández-Gutiérrez Benjamín , Ferraz-Amaro Iván , Castañeda Santos , Martín Javier , González-Gay Miguel A.
Published: August 2016

Association between elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels and subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) events was described in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). CRP, HNF1A, LEPR, GCKR, NLRP3, IL1F10, PPP1R3B, ASCL1, HNF4A and SALL1 exert an influence on elevated CRP serum levels in non-rheumatic Caucasians. Consequently, we evaluated the potential role of these genes in the development of CV events and subclinical atherosclerosis in RA patients. Three tag CRP polymorphisms and HNF1A, LEPR, GCKR, NLRP3, IL1F10, PPP1R3B, ASCL1, HNF4A and SALL1 were genotyped in 2,313 Spanish patients by TaqMan. Subclinical atherosclerosis was determined in 1,298 of them by carotid ultrasonography (by assessment of carotid intima-media thickness-cIMT-and presence/absence of carotid plaques). CRP serum levels at diagnosis and at the time of carotid ultrasonography were measured in 1,662 and 1,193 patients, respectively, by immunoturbidimetry. Interestingly, a relationship between CRP and CRP serum levels at diagnosis and at the time of the carotid ultrasonography was disclosed. However, no statistically significant differences were found when CRP, HNF1A, LEPR, GCKR, NLRP3, IL1F10, PPP1R3B, ASCL1, HNF4A and SALL1 were evaluated according to the presence/absence of CV events, carotid plaques and cIMT after adjustment. Our results do not confirm an association between these genes and CV disease in RA.
Risk of malignancy in ankylosing spondylitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Chuiwen , Li Wenli , Fei Yunyun , Li Yongzhe , Zhang Fengchun
Published: August 2016

Current knowledge about the overall and site-specific risk of malignancy associated with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is inconsistent. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to address this knowledge gap. Five databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane library and the virtual health library) were systematically searched. A manual search of publications within the last 2 years in key journals in the field (Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, Rheumatology and Arthritis & rheumatology) was also performed. STATA 11.2 software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. After screening, twenty-three studies, of different designs, were eligible for meta-analysis. AS is associated with a 14% (pooled RR 1.14; 95% CI 1.03–1.25) increase in the overall risk for malignancy. Compared to controls, patients with AS are at a specific increased risk for malignancy of the digestive system (pooled RR 1.20; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.42), multiple myelomas (pooled RR 1.92; 95% CI 1.37 to 3.69) and lymphomas (pooled RR 1.32; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.57). On subgroup analysis, evidence from high quality cohort studies indicated that AS patients from Asia are at highest risk for malignancy overall. Confirmation of findings from large-scale longitudinal studies is needed to identify specific risk factors and to evaluate treatment effects.
A smart temperature and magnetic-responsive gating carbon nanotube membrane for ion and protein transportation
Authors: Cong Hailin , Xu Xiaodan , Yu Bing , Yang Zhaohui , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: August 2016

Carbon nanotube (CNT) nanoporous membranes based on pre-aligned CNTs have superior nano-transportation properties in biological science. Herein, we report a smart temperature- and temperature-magnetic-responsive CNT nanoporous membrane (CNM) by grafting thermal-sensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) on the open ends of pre-aligned CNTs with a diameter around 15 nm via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) method. The inner cavity of the modified CNTs in the membrane is designed to be the only path for ion and protein transportation and its effective diameter with a variation from ~5.7 nm to ~12.4 nm can be reversible tuned by temperature and magnetic field. The PNIPAM modified CNM (PNIPAM-CNM) and PNIPAM magnetic nanoparticles modified CNM (PNIPAM-MAG-CNM) exhibit excellent temperature- or temperature-magnetic-responsive gating property to separate proteins of different sizes. The PNIPAM-CNMs and PNIPAM-MAG-CNMs have potential applications in making artificial cells, biosensors, bioseparation and purification filters.
Activity in superior parietal cortex during training by observation predicts asymmetric learning levels across hands
Authors: Ossmy Ori , Mukamel Roy
Published: August 2016

A dominant concept in motor cognition associates action observation with motor control. Previous studies have shown that passive action observation can result in significant performance gains in humans. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether the neural mechanism subserving such learning codes abstract aspects of the action (e.g. goal) or low level aspects such as effector identity. Eighteen healthy subjects learned to perform sequences of finger movements by passively observing right or left hand performing the same sequences in egocentric view. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging we show that during passive observation, activity in the superior parietal lobule (SPL) contralateral to the identity of the observed hand (right\left), predicts subsequent performance gains in individual subjects. Behaviorally, left hand observation resulted in positively correlated performance gains of the two hands. Conversely right hand observation yielded negative correlation - individuals with high performance gains in one hand exhibited low gains in the other. Such behavioral asymmetry is reflected by activity in contralateral SPL during short-term training in the absence of overt physical practice and demonstrates the role of observed hand identity in learning. These results shed new light on the coding level in SPL and have implications for optimizing motor skill learning.
Measurement uncertainty associated with shipboard sample collection and filtration for the determination of the concentration of iron in seawater
Authors: Clough Robert , Floor Geerke H. , Quétel Christophe R. , Milne Angela , Lohan Maeve C. , Worsfold Paul J.
Published: August 2016

ANOVA used to determine uncertainty associated with the way in which deep, open ocean seawater samples were collected and conditioned (filtered).
First hyperpolarizability of para-aminoaniline induced by a variety of gold nano particles
Authors: Olsen Stine T. , Mikkelsen Kurt V.
Published: August 2016

Molecules exposed to an electromagnetic field due to the presence of nearby nanoparticles are known to be affected.
Mechanisms of the S/CO/Se interchange reactions at FeMo-co, the active site cluster of nitrogenase
Authors: Dance Ian
Published: August 2016

Mechanisms are developed for the observations of extraordinary substitution of bridging S by CO and Se, and the migration of Se, in the CFe7MoS9cluster at the active site of nitrogenase.
A Ca2+ selective membrane electrode based on calcium-imprinted polymeric nanoparticles
Authors: Alizadeh Taher , Shamkhali Amir Naser , Hanifehpour Younes , Joo Sang Woo
Published: August 2016

In this work, a Ca2+ selective PVC-membrane electrode, utilizing nano-sized Ca2+ imprinted polymers as the ionophore, was introduced.
Alkyl substituted poly(p-phenylene vinylene)s by ring opening metathesis polymerisation
Authors: Lidster Benjamin J. , Kumar Dharam R. , Spring Andrew M. , Yu Chin-Yang , Turner Michael L.
Published: August 2016

The ring opening metathesis polymerisation (ROMP) of three n-octyl substituted [2.2]paracyclophane-1,9-dienes, initiated by Grubbs ruthenium carbene complexes is reported.
Inducing macroporosity in hydrogels using hydrogen peroxide as a blowing agent
Authors: Kenna N. Mac , Morrin A.
Published: August 2016

A new gas blowing method to induce a macroporous structure in pH-responsive hydrogel materials with basic functional groups is reported by a new technique that generates oxygen bubblesviahydrogen peroxide decomposition to template the polymer.
A validated gas chromatography mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of cathinone related drug enantiomers in urine and plasma
Authors: Alremeithi Rashed H. , Meetani Mohammed A. , Khalil Saif. A.
Published: August 2016

A sensitive and selective method for detection and quantitation of 31 synthetic cathinones using GC-MS has been developed and validated. They were separated into their optical enantiomers after derivatization with L-TPC and nikethamide was used as IS.
Heteroaryl chalcone allied triazole conjugated organosilatranes: synthesis, spectral analysis, antimicrobial screening, photophysical and theoretical investigations
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Arora Aanchal , Rani Sunita , Maurya Indresh Kumar , Aulakh Darpandeep , Wriedt Mario
Published: August 2016

A series of heteroaryl tethered triazole conjoined organosilatranes were synthesized and studied for their solvatochromism experimentally and theoretically followed by antimicrobial screening.
A novel preparation of anti-layered poly(vinylalcohol)–polyacrylonitrile (PVA/PAN) membrane for air filtration by electrospinning
Authors: Cheng Zhiqiang , Zhang Yingying , Han Zhaolian , Cui Liying , Kang Lijuan , Zhang Fanli
Published: August 2016

Schematic for the preparation of PAN/PVA membrane deposited on the stainless steel mesh modified by dilute PVA solution.
High photocatalytic activity of plasmonic Ag@AgCl/Zn2SnO4 nanocomposites synthesized using hydrothermal method
Authors: Ali Monaam Ben , Hamdi Abderrahmane , Elhouichet Habib , Sieber Brigitte , Addad Ahmed , Coffinier Yannick , Boussekey Luc , Férid Mokhtar , Szunerits Sabine , Boukherroub Rabah
Published: August 2016

Ag@AgCl/Zn2SnO4 (ZTO) nanocomposites were successfully prepared by a hydrothermal method.
Coaxial ultrathin Co1−yFeyOx nanosheet coating on carbon nanotubes for water oxidation with excellent activity
Authors: Fang Yiyun , Li Xinzhe , Zhao Shiling , Wu Juntian , Li Feng , Tian Min , Long Xuefeng , Jin Jun , Ma Jiantai
Published: August 2016

Coaxial ultrathin Co1−yFeyOx nanosheets coating on carbon nanotubes was prepared by a one-pot thermal decomposition method. The catalyst exhibits the superior electrochemical activity to RuO2 catalyst for OER.
Janus films with stretchable and waterproof properties for wound care and drug delivery applications
Authors: Lee Ethan , Zhang Hongbin , Jackson John K. , Lim Chinten James , Chiao Mu
Published: August 2016

Janus PDMS films with porous/nonporous structures are fabricated for wound care. The film has good stretchability, waterproof and breathable surfaces and non-stick properties, which enhance its performance compared to traditional wound bandages.
Synthesis and characterization of novel dibenz[a,c]anthracenedicarboxythioimides: the effect of thionation on self-assembly
Authors: Psutka Katie. M. , Maly Kenneth E.
Published: August 2016

The effect of thionation on the formation of columnar liquid crystalline phases of dibenzanthracenedicarboximides as well as their self-association in solution is described.
Simultaneously strengthening and toughening soy protein isolate-based films using poly(ethylene glycol)-block-polystyrene (PEG-b-PS) nanoparticles
Authors: Kang Haijiao , Shen Xiaoyan , Zhang Wei , Qi Chusheng , Zhang Shifeng , Li Jianzhang
Published: August 2016

Uniformly dispersed PEG-b-PS nanoparticles synthesized via RAFT dispersion polymerization was employed to reinforce the biodegradable soy protein isolate films.
Insight into the acidic group-induced nitration mechanism of 2-methyl-4,6-dihydroxypyrimidine (MDP) with nitronium
Authors: Wang Kuan , Chen Jian-Gang , Wang Bozhou , Ji Yueping , Liu Fengyi , Liu Zhao-Tie , Wang Wenliang , Liu Zhong-Wen , Hao Zhengping , Lu Jian
Published: August 2016

An incredible HSO4−-induction to the title nitration is proposed. The charge distribution/fluctuation provides a favorable nitration path.
Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of amorphous MoS2 catalysts and their activities in the hydrodeoxygenation of p-cresol
Authors: Wu Kui , Wang Weiyan , Tan Song , Zhu Guohua , Tan Liang , Yang Yunquan
Published: August 2016

MoS2 was fast synthesized by microwave-assisted hydrothermal method using MoCl5 and (NH2)2CS as starting materials and exhibited high activity: the deoxygenation degree reached to 92.4% in the HDO of p-cresol at 300 °C for 6 h.
Surfactin induces maturation of dendritic cells in vitro
Authors: Xu Wenwen , Liu Haofei , Wang Xiaoqing , Yang Qian
Published: August 2016

Surfactin has multiple immune activities, such as triggering immune-related defense responses and enhancing humoral and cellular immune responses. Although, the mechanisms are still unclear. The maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) is essential for inducing downstream immune response. To shed light on the mechanisms of surfactin-induced immune activities, we verified the influences of surfactin on DCs maturation. The results showed that after stimulated with 20 μg/ml surfactin for 24 h, DCs were conferred morphologic and phenotypic characteristics of a mature state, showing an increased shape index and up-regulated expressions of major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) and CD40. Moreover, surfactin also induced DCs to release IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), indicating that DCs were functionally mature. In addition, the IκB-α level in surfactin-treated DCs was significantly reduced whereas the nuclear p65 level was notably increased, preliminarily indicating that nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signalling pathway might play an important role in surfactin-induced DCs maturation.
How to Interpret and Critique Neuroimaging Research: A Tutorial on Use of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Clinical Populations
Authors: Chouinard Brea , Boliek Carol , Cummine Jacqueline
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), an influential experimental approach, provides valuable information about clinical disorders that can be used to select and/or refine speech and language interventions. Functional MRI (fMRI) in particular is becoming a widespread methodological tool for investigating speech and language. However, because MRI is relatively new and complex, potential consumers need to be able to critically assess the methods used in order to appraise results and conclusions. The authors offer a tutorial that (a) relays foundational knowledge related to the collection and analysis of MRI data in general and fMRI data specifically and (b) presents strategies for evaluating studies that utilize fMRI methods.

Method

This tutorial outlines methodological considerations that should be addressed by fMRI researchers and noted by consumers of the research, including clinicians and behavioral researchers who work with neurogenic communication disorders.

Results

Readers will be able to evaluate a neuroimaging publication and identify the methodological strengths and weaknesses that potentially influence the integrity of reported findings and interpretations.

Conclusion

This tutorial provides information and strategies that can be used to critically evaluate studies that collect, analyze, and interpret fMRI data. The tutorial concludes with a summary checklist to guide critical appraisal.
Automatic generation control of an unequal four‐area thermal system using biogeography‐based optimised 3DOF‐PID controller
Authors: Rahman Asadur , Saikia Lalit Chandra , Sinha Nidul
Published: August 2016

This study presents the automatic generation control of an unequal four‐area thermal system with appropriate generation rate constraint and governor dead band (GDB). Performances of several classical controllers, such as single degree‐of‐freedom proportional–integral–derivative (PID), two degree‐of‐freedom PID (2DOF‐PID) and three degree‐of‐freedom PID (3DOF‐PID) as secondary controllers are evaluated separately in the system. An attempt is made to apply the successful evolutionary optimisation technique named as biogeography‐based optimisation technique for simultaneous optimisation of several variables, such as controller gains, setpoint weights and so on. Comparison of dynamic responses corresponding to PID, 2DOF‐PID and 3DOF‐PID reveals that 3DOF‐PID controller outperforms the others. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the optimum gains and other parameters of the optimal controller obtained at nominal conditions are robust and need not be reset for wide changes in system condition like system loading, system parameters such as inertia constant (H), synchronising coefficient (Tij) and GDB. The performance of 3DOF‐PID controller is also studied with different step‐load perturbations (SLPs) and random‐load perturbations (RLPs). Analysis proves that 3DOF‐PID controller performs better than 2DOF‐PID at different SLPs and RLPs.
Comprehensive gain and phase margins based stability analysis of micro‐grid frequency control system with constant communication time delays
Authors: Gündüz Hakan , Sönmez Şahin , Ayasun Saffet
Published: August 2016

This study presents a comprehensive delay‐dependent stability analysis of a micro‐grid system with constant communication delays. First, an exact method that takes into account both gain and phase margins (GPMs) is proposed to determine stability delay margins in terms of system and controller parameters. The method implements an elimination procedure to transform transcendental characteristic equation into a standard polynomial of the crossing frequency. The real roots of this new standard polynomial exactly match with the purely imaginary roots (crossing frequencies) of the original characteristic equation with transcendental terms. Second, an effective and simple graphical method is implemented to compute all stabilising proportional integral (PI) controller gains for a given time delay. The approach is based on extracting stability region and the stability boundary locus in the PI controller parameter space having user defined GPMs, and relative stability. The time‐domain simulation studies indicate that the proposed schemes give better desired dynamic performance as compared with the recently developed schemes for micro‐grid with communication delays.
Evaluation of metal plastic deformation using radio‐frequency reflection features
Authors: Yao Wenquan , Yin Aijun , Ren Hongji , Ouyang Qi
Published: August 2016

Plastic deformation may occur in metal structure during the manufacturing and service process which will affect the service life of equipment. This study proposes a radio‐frequency method resulting from electromagnetic properties variation for metal plastic deformation monitoring. There is a clearly correlation between the macroscopic electromagnetic properties and the plastic deformation of materials. The energy distribution of radio‐frequency varies obviously due to electromagnetic properties variation according to the simulation results. Meanwhile, the reflection features are mainly affected by permeability and electric conductivity of the material. Experiments have been conducted to verify simulation results. The results of the experiments indicate that the reflected radio‐frequency signal strength decreases with progressive plastic deformation in metal, which has been in conformity with simulations.
Insights into root structure and function of Bassia indica: water redistribution and element dispersion
Authors: Shelef Oren , Pongrac Paula , Pelicon Primož , Vavpetič Primož , Kelemen Mitja , Seifan Merav , Rewald Boris , Rachmilevitch Shimon
Published: August 2016

In the last few decades, research has increasingly been aimed at clarifying how root system architecture, physiology and function are related to environmental drivers. ‘Negative halotropism’ has been defined as the alteration of root growth direction to avoid salinity. We suggested that ‘positive halotropism’ may be found in halophytes relying on salinity for optimal growth. Investigating root structure of the halophyte Bassia indica (Wight) A. J. Scott, we have shown that positive halotropism can explain the growth of horizontal roots towards optimal salt concentrations along a soil salinity gradient. Here we tested three hypotheses. First, that development of B. indica roots depends on a trade-off between optimal nutrient supply and saline concentrations: results of split-root-experiment showed a preference for sand enriched with nutrients and poor in salts. Second, that shallow horizontal roots enable B. indica to forage for nutrient-rich patches. Results demonstrated that bulk elemental analysis was not consistent with tissue-specific elemental analysis, and this can be explained by substantial variability of element composition of particular root segments. Third, we hypothesised that B. indica redistributes water horizontally through shallow horizontal roots. Results showed that back flow of water from the tap root towards tip root was possible in horizontal roots in saline microenvironment.
Periconceptional undernutrition affects in utero methyltransferase expression and steroid hormone concentrations in uterine flushings and blood plasma during the peri-implantation period in domestic pigs
Authors: Franczak A. , Zglejc K. , Waszkiewicz E. , Wojciechowicz B. , Martyniak M. , Sobotka W. , Okrasa S. , Kotwica G.
Published: August 2016

Female undernutrition during early pregnancy may affect the physiological pattern of genomic DNA methylation. We hypothesised that in utero DNA methylation may be impaired in females fed a restrictive diet in early pregnancy. In this study we evaluated whether poor maternal nutritional status, induced by applying a restricted diet during the peri-conceptional period, may influence: (1) the potential for in utero DNA methylation, expressed as changes in the mRNA expression and protein abundance of methyltransferases: DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and DNMT3a in the endometrium and the myometrium, (2) the intrauterine microenvironment, measured as oestradiol 17β (E2) and progesterone (P4) concentrations in uterine flushings and (3) plasma concentration of E2 and P4 during the peri-implantation period. Our results indicate that maternal peri-conceptional undernutrition affects maintenance and de novo DNA methylation in the endometrium, de novo methylation in the myometrium and a results in a decrease in intrauterine E2 concentration during the peri-implantation period. The intrauterine concentration of P4 and plasma concentrations of E2 and P4 did not change. These findings suggest that undernutrition during the earliest period of pregnancy, and perhaps the pre-pregnancy period, may create changes in epigenetic mechanisms in the uterus and intrauterine milieu of E2 during the peri-implantation period.
Disparities of sexual orientations by sex and urban or rural residence among youth in China
Authors: Guo Chao , Pang Lihua , Zhang Lei , Chen Gong , Wang Zhenjie , Zheng Xiaoying
Published: August 2016

This study explores the distribution of sexual orientations and examined disparities by sex and rural and urban residency of non-heterosexual youth, aged 15–24 years, in China. Data was derived from a 2009 nationally representative survey. Among 22 288 participants, 0.79% identified as homosexual, 1.47% identified as bisexual, and 4.26% were unsure about their sexual orientation. Compared with male youth and urban youth, female youth (adjusted odds ratio = 1.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.23–1.52) and rural youth (adjusted odds ratio = 1.23, 95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.40) were more likely to be non-heterosexual. More efforts should be made to enhance sex education and legal protection for non-heterosexual youth in China.
International Justice and Judicial Decision Making at the Appellate Level
Authors: Meernik James
Published: August 2016

International law is an evolving body of jurisprudence characterized by ambiguities, gaps, and lack of precedent. I argue that the propensity of the prosecution or the defense to emerge victorious on issues on appeal will depend on the legal issues they raise. I introduce a new database on the outcomes of every extant appeal filed by both the prosecution and the defense at the international criminal tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda. I find that the defense is more often likely to win on appeal when it appeals issues that are dynamic and inchoate in international law.
“Foreign Criminals,” the Human Rights Act, and the New Constitutional Politics of the United Kingdom
Authors: Hamlin Rebecca
Published: August 2016

Since the passage of the 1998 Human Rights Act, popular anxiety about increasing judicial power over immigration has led to a very public debate about the future of British constitutionalism. Drawing on an analysis of case law, 747 media articles, and interviews with human rights advocates, legal scholars, and government officials, I trace the development of a popular constitutionalism in the United Kingdom, fueled by resistance to international human rights law and directed at repealing the act. I demonstrate how the tabloid media amplifies jurisprudentially insignificant cases, especially regarding “foreign criminals,” and erodes political support for the entrenchment of rights.