bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical recycling of nanocellulose containing multilayer packaging films
Authors: Vartiainen Jari , Pasanen Satu , Kenttä Eija , Vähä‐Nissi Mika
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to demonstrate mechanical recycling of low density polyethylene (LDPE) films coated with a thin layer of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs). CNF acts as an effective barrier against oxygen and mineral oil residues. Two different CNF grades were tested, and both were applied onto plasma activated LDPE film using a pilot coating line. The coated films were shredded with the help of liquid nitrogen, compacted and compounded with virgin LDPE and compatibilizer, and processed into cast films and injection molded test specimens. The CNF coatings were completely blent as microscale agglomerates in the LDPE matrix. The effect of these agglomerates on the barrier and heat sealing properties was statistically insignificant compared to recycled uncoated LDPE. The mechanical properties were only moderately changed. CNF‐coated LDPE films can therefore be recycled back into films without sacrificing the characteristic properties of the base polymer. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46237.
Bioconversion of residual soybean oil into polyhydroxyalkanoates
Authors: Nascimento Luciana Lordêlo , Neves Nunes Jéssica Magalhães , Rodrigues Plínio Ribeiro , Druzian Janice Izabel
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study is to evaluate the bioconversion of residual soybean oil (RSO) into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by selecting microorganism and fermentation condition in order to increase PHAs production. PHAs production by Cupriavidus necator IPT 026 using glucose (PHA 1) and RSO (PHA 2) as substrate is 1.15 ± 0.21 and 2.84 ± 0.04 g L−1, respectively. FTIR spectra of PHAs were similar to data reported in literature. PHAs presented low crystallinity (PHA 1: 42.69%; PHA 2: 46.44%), high thermal stability (PHA 1: 271.78 °C; PHA 2: 272.52 °C), and low MW (PHA 1: 140.69 kDa; PHA 2: 254.54 kDa). PHAs produced by RSO are potential candidates for industrial applications, especially ones that demand higher temperatures. This is the first study on the production and characterization of PHAs obtained by C. necator IPT 026 in culture with RSO. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46255.
A fluorescent aptasensor for analysis of adenosine triphosphate based on aptamer–magnetic nanoparticles and its single‐stranded complementary DNA labeled carbon dots
Authors: Saberi Zeinab , Rezaei Behzad , Khayamian Taghi
Published: January 2018

A new fluorimetric aptasensor was designed for the determination of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) based on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and carbon dots (CDs). In this analytical strategy, an ATP aptamer was conjugated on MNPs and a complementary strand of the aptamer (CS) was labeled with CDs. The aptamer and its CS were hybridized to form a double helical structure. The hybridized aptamers could be used for the specific recognition of ATP in a biological complex matrix using a strong magnetic field to remove the interfering effect. In the absence of ATP, no CDs–CS could be released into the solution and this resulted in a weak fluorescence signal. In the presence of ATP, the target binds to its aptamer and causes the dissociation of the double helical structure and liberation of the CS, such that a strong fluorescence signal was generated. The increased fluorescence signal was proportional to ATP concentration. The limit of detection was estimated to be 1.0 pmol L–1 with a dynamic range of 3.0 pmol L–1 to 5.0 nmol L–1. The specific aptasensor was applied to detect ATP in human serum samples with satisfactory results. Moreover, molecular dynamic simulation (MDS) studies were used to analyze interactions of the ATP molecule with the aptamer.
POCD in patients receiving total knee replacement under deep vs light anesthesia: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hou Ruixue , Wang Hong , Chen Lianhua , Qiu Yimin , Li Shitong
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Clinical observation, as well as randomized controlled trials, indicated an increasing rate of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) with increasing depth of general anesthesia. However, the findings are subject to bias due to varying degree of analgesia. In this trial, we compared the rate of POCD between patients receiving light versus high anesthesia while holding analgesia comparable using nerve block.

Methods

Elderly patients (≧60 years) receiving elective total knee replacement were randomized to receive the surgery under general anesthesia at BIS 40–50 (LOBIS group) or BIS 55–65 (HIBIS group). The femoral nerve and the sciatic nerve were blocked under ultrasonic guidance in all patients before induction. Cognitive performance was assessed with Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) at the baseline and 1d, 3d, and 7d after the surgery. POCD was defined by Z score of >1.96 using cross‐reference. The extubation time and recovery time were also compared.

Results

A total of 66 patients were randomized; 60 (n = 30 per group) completed trial as the protocol specified. POCD occurred in six patients (20%) in the LOBIS group vs. in one patient (3.3%) in the HIBIS group (Figure , p = .04). In all seven cases, the diagnosis of POCD was based on MoCA assessment on 1d after the surgery. Assessment in 3d and 7d after surgery did not reveal POCD in any case. Extubation time was longer in the LOBIS group (12.16 ± 2.58 vs. 5.77 ± 3.01 min in the HIBIS group (p < .001)). The time of comeback of directional ability was 13.47 ± 3.14 and 6.17 ± 3.23 min in the LOBIS and HIBIS groups, respectively (p < .001).

Conclusions

In elderly patients receiving a total knee replacement, lighter anesthesia could reduce the rate of POCD with complete analgesia during surgery.
Volatiles and Nonvolatiles in Flourensia campestris Griseb. (Asteraceae), How Much Do Capitate Glandular Trichomes Matter?
Authors: Piazza Leonardo A. , López Daniela , Silva Mariana P. , López Rivilli Marisa J. , Tourn Mónica G. , Cantero Juan J. , Scopel Ana L.
Published: January 2018

The distribution and ultrastructure of capitate glandular trichomes (GTs) in Flourensia species (Asteraceae) have been recently elucidated, but their metabolic activity and potential biological function remain unexplored. Selective nonvolatile metabolites from isolated GTs were strikingly similar to those found on leaf surfaces. The phytotoxic allelochemical sesquiterpene (–)‐hamanasic acid A ((–)‐HAA) was the major constituent (ca. 40%) in GTs. Although GTs are quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs)‐accumulating species, glycine betaine was not found in GTs; it was only present in the leaf mesophyll. Two (–)‐HAA accompanying surface secreted products: compounds 4‐hydroxyacetophenone (piceol; 1) and 2‐hydroxy‐5‐methoxyacetophenone (2), which were isolated and fully characterized (GC/MS, NMR), were present in the volatiles found in GTs. The essential oils of fresh leaves revealed ca. 33% monoterpenes, 26% hydrocarbon‐ and 30% oxygenated sesquiterpenes, most of them related to cadinene and bisabolene derivatives. Present results suggest a main role of GTs in determining the volatile and nonvolatile composition of F. campestris leaves. Based on the known activities of the compounds identified, it can be suggested that GTs in F. campestris would play key ecological functions in plant‐pathogen and plant‐plant interactions. In addition, the strikingly high contribution of compounds derived from cadinene and bisabolene pathways, highlights the potential of this species as a source of high‐valued bioproducts.
Isocyanides Derived from α,α‐Disubstituted Amino Acids: Synthesis and Antifouling Activity Assessment
Authors: Inoue Yuki , Takashima Shuhei , Nogata Yasuyuki , Yoshimura Erina , Chiba Kazuhiro , Kitano Yoshikazu
Published: January 2018

Herein, we contribute to the development of environmentally friendly antifoulants by synthesizing eighteen isocyanides derived from α,α‐disubstituted amino acids and evaluating their antifouling activity/toxicity against the cypris larvae of the Balanus amphitrite barnacle. Almost all isocyanides showed good antifouling activity without significant toxicity and exhibited EC50 values of 0.07 – 7.30 μg/mL after 120‐h exposure. The lowest EC50 values were observed for valine‐, methionine‐, and phenylalanine‐derived isocyanides, which achieved > 95% cypris larvae settlement inhibition at concentrations of less than 30 μg/mL without exhibiting significant toxicity. Thus, the prepared isocyanides should be useful for further research focused on the development of environmentally friendly antifouling agents.
A Chimeric Styrene Monooxygenase with Increased Efficiency in Asymmetric Biocatalytic Epoxidation
Authors: Corrado Maria L. , Knaus Tanja , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: January 2018

The styrene monooxygenase (SMO) system from Pseudomonas sp. consists of two enzymes (StyA and StyB). StyB catalyses the reduction of FAD at the expense of NADH. After the transfer of FADH2 from StyB to StyA, reaction with O2 generates FAD‐OOH, which is the epoxidising agent. The wastage of redox equivalents due to partial diffusive transfer of FADH2, the insolubility of recombinant StyB and the impossibility of expressing StyA and StyB in a 1:1 molar ratio reduce the catalytic efficiency of the natural system. Herein we present a chimeric SMO (Fus‐SMO) that was obtained by genetic fusion of StyA and StyB through a flexible linker. Thanks to a combination of: 1) balanced and improved expression levels of reductase and epoxidase units, and 2) intrinsically higher specific epoxidation activity of Fus‐SMO in some cases, Escherichia coli cells expressing Fus‐SMO possess about 50 % higher activity for the epoxidation of styrene derivatives than E. coli cells coexpressing StyA and StyB as discrete enzymes. The epoxidation activity of purified Fus‐SMO was up to three times higher than that of the two‐component StyA/StyB (1:1, molar ratio) system and up to 110 times higher than that of the natural fused SMO. Determination of coupling efficiency and study of the influence of O2 pressure were also performed. Finally, Fus‐SMO and formate dehydrogenase were coexpressed in E. coli and applied as a self‐sufficient biocatalytic system for epoxidation on greater than 500 mg scale.
Successful implantation of a Micra leadless pacemaker via collateral femoral vein and inferior vena cava filter
Authors: Flores Erica , Patel Mayur , Orme Geoffery , Su Wilber
Published: January 2018

Key Clinical Message

This case details the successful implementation of a leadless pacemaker device in a patient with multiple venous occlusions and an IVC filter. As the incidence of IVC filters increases in patients with dysrhythmias, further investigations are required to determine the risk and safety of leadless pacemaker placement in this population.
Benzoate‐Induced High‐Nuclearity Silver Thiolate Clusters
Authors: Su Yan‐Min , Liu Wei , Wang Zhi , Wang Shu‐Ao , Li Yan‐An , Yu Fei , Zhao Quan‐Qin , Wang Xing‐Po , Tung Chen‐Ho , Sun Di
Published: January 2018

Compared with the well‐known anion‐templated effects in shaping silver thiolate clusters, the influence from the organic ligands in the outer shell is still poorly understood. Herein, three new benzoate‐functionalized high‐nuclearity silver(I) thiolate clusters are isolated and characterized for the first time in the presence of diverse anion templates such as S2−, α‐[Mo5O18]6−, and MoO42−. Single‐crystal X‐ray analysis reveals that the nuclearities of the three silver clusters (SD/Ag28, SD/Ag29, SD/Ag30) vary from 32 to 38 to 78 with co‐capped tBuS− and benzoate ligands on the surface. SD/Ag28 is a turtle‐like cluster comprising a Ag29 shell caging a Ag3S3 trigon in the center, whereas SD/Ag29 is a prolate Ag38 sphere templated by the α‐[Mo5O18]6− anion. Upon changing from benzoate to methoxyl‐substituted benzoate, SD/Ag30 is isolated as a very complicated core–shell spherical cluster composed of a Ag57 shell and a vase‐like Ag21S13 core. Four MoO42− anions are arranged in a supertetrahedron and located in the interstice between the core and shell. Introduction of the bulky benzoate changes elaborately the nuclearity and arrangements of silver polygons on the shell of silver clusters, which is exemplified by comparing SD/Ag28 and a known similar silver thiolate cluster. The three new clusters emit luminescence in the near‐infrared (NIR) region and show different thermochromic luminescence properties. This work presents a flexible approach to synthetic studies of high‐nuclearity silver clusters decorated by different benzoates, and structural modulations are also achieved.
Verifying compositional equivalence between web service composition graphs
Authors: Rai Gopal N. , Gangadharan G. R.
Published: January 2018

Given a composition request, the formation of possible Web Service Composition Graphs (WSCGs) depends on the set of available services. Since the availability of Web services is dynamic, at any time, a new service can join or an existing service can leave the set of available services. A change in the set may bring the structural change in a previously formed WSCG. However, it is not always the case that a structural change in the WSCG brings the semantic change. In this paper, our aim is to verify the compositional equivalence between two WSCGs formed before and after the structural change caused by the change in the set of available services. Our proposed solution is based on an algebraic formalism, and by using the formalism, directed acyclic WSCGs are formed for a given composition request. Then, by using WSCGs, we propose the concept of composition expression and canonical composition expression. On the basis of the proposed concept of canonical composition expression, we verify compositional equivalence between two WSCGs. The advantage of our approach is that it reduces the equivalence verification to the subsumption checking between two algebraic expressions instead of directly using the WSCGs and solving a subgraph matching problem. The proposed mechanism is implemented and evaluated for the exhaustive possibilities in a travel agency case study with respect to a given composition request.
Effect of pH on Aβ42 Monomer and Fibril‐like Oligomers—Decoding in Silico of the Roles of pK Values of Charged Residues
Authors: Zhao Wei , Ai Hongqi
Published: January 2018

Amyloid beta‐peptide (Aβ) is the key to developing Alzheimer's disease. Experiments have confirmed that different acidity influences directly not only the structural morphology and population of Aβ oligomers, but also the toxicity. The atomic‐level association between the pH, charged residues, and Aβ properties remains obscure. Herein, conformational changes of Aβ42 monomer, fibril‐like trimer, and pentamer in the medium pH range of 4.0–7.5 are studied. The results reveal that, as the pH changes from 7.5 to the isoelectric pH, His6, His13, and His14 are protonated in turn, successively approach the center of mass of folded Aβ monomer, trigger ionic interactions and changes of neighboring turns (Asp7‐Ser8, His14‐Lys16) and even a distant one (Leu34‐Met35), as well as concomitant changes of secondary structure, and promote the conformation transition from unfolded to folded. This observation discloses that protonation can convert these charged residues from originally hydrophilic to “hydrophobic‐like”. For fibril‐like oligomers, the pH susceptibility essentially stems from the pK values of charged residues in the context of the Aβ fibril, and in turn one can predict the dynamic behavior of these residues in the processes of dissociation or stabilization of a fibril by comparing the pK values of residues involved in salt bridges in the normal state with those in the current context. This idea is justified by two fibril models and appears to be applicable to other peptides and their fibril systems.
Regenerative Solutions for Inherited Diseases
Authors: Tolar Jakub
Published: January 2018

It is clear that regenerative medicine therapies will dominate the future landscape, particularly for genetic disorders and other diseases that have been proven intractable with current therapies. As we explore unique combinations of rapidly emerging fields—from computational biology to genome editing to molecular therapeutics—the past goal of ameliorating symptoms of disease is rapidly giving way to the goal of restoring a patient to health and normal function.
Positive‐real property of passive fractional circuits in W‐domain
Authors: Liang Guishu , Liu Chang
Published: January 2018

Fractional circuits have attracted extensive attention of scholars and researchers for their superior performance and potential applications. Fractional circuits constitute a new challenge for the analysis and synthesis methods of traditional circuits theory. Passivity is the fundamental property of traditional circuits (integer order electric circuits). As is known to all, passivity is equivalent to positive realness in traditional linear circuits. However, this equivalence is broken down by introducing fractional elements into electrical networks in s‐domain. To address this issue, on the basis of s‐W transformation, we study the passive criteria of fractional circuits with rational order elements in this paper. Definitions of positive‐real (matrix) function in W‐domain are given, and the equivalence conditions of positive realness are derived. In addition, a conclusion is proposed in which the immittance (matrix) function of passive fractional circuits with rational order elements is positive real in W‐domain. The applications of passive criteria in circuit synthesis are shown.
High‐sensitivity 5‐, 6‐, and 7‐color PNH WBC assays for both Canto II and Navios platforms
Authors: Sutherland D. Robert , Ortiz Fernando , Quest Graeme , Illingworth Andrea , Benko Miroslav , Nayyar Rakesh , Marinov Iuri
Published: January 2018

Background

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare acquired hematopoietic stem cell disorder characterized by an inability to make Glyco‐Phosphatidyl‐Inositol (GPI)‐linked cell surface structures. Fluorescent proaerolysin (FLAER‐Alexa488) is increasingly used to detect GPI‐deficient WBCs by flow cytometry. However, FLAER is not available in all countries and is expensive to obtain in others. An earlier study to compare FLAER‐based and non‐FLAER assays confirmed very good agreement between the two tubes suggesting a cost effective simultaneous evaluation of PNH neutrophils and monocytes is possible without FLAER.

Methods

We have used a single tube approach with a 7‐color assay comprising FLAER‐CD157‐CD15‐CD64‐CD24‐CD14‐CD45. Conjugates were carefully selected and validated so that stained samples could be analyzed on either 10‐color Navios or 8‐color FACSCanto II platforms. The 6‐color (minus CD14) and 5‐color (minus CD24 and CD14) versions were also developed and compared with our predicate clinical lab 5‐color assay comprising FLAER‐CD157PE‐CD64ECD‐CD15PC5‐CD45PC7.

Results/Conclusions

CD15‐gated PNH neutrophil clone size was quantified using either FLAER and CD157, FLAER and CD24, or CD157 and CD24. CD64‐gated PNH monocyte clone size was quantified using either FLAER and CD157, FLAER and CD14, or CD157 and CD14. Analysis of >40 PNH samples showed that the FLAER‐based plots derive virtually identical data to the non‐FLAER plot for neutrophils (R2 = 1) and monocytes (R2 = 0.9999) and that closely similar data can be acquired using both Canto II and Navios platforms with 7‐, 6‐, and 5‐color versions of the assay. Assessment of non‐PNH samples confirmed extremely low background rate of PNH phenotypes (neutrophils and monocytes) with all three approaches. © 2018 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Shifts in algal dominance in freshwater experimental ponds across differing levels of macrophytes and nutrients
Authors: Iacarella Josephine C. , Barrow Jennifer L. , Giani Alessandra , Beisner Beatrix E. , Gregory‐Eaves Irene
Published: January 2018

Excess nutrient loading into ponds and shallow lakes can lead to undesirable algal growth and a shift to a turbid state. Previous work has suggested that such an ecosystem transition may be mediated by the biotic constituents of the habitat and food web; however, earlier experiments have been conducted at coarse temporal resolution and have typically used a single initial density of macrophytes, a key structural component of ponds and shallow lakes. To address these gaps, we tested the hypotheses that experimental ponds with lower macrophyte densities and more rapid increases in nutrient loading would shift to phytoplankton dominance, whereas higher macrophyte densities and slower, lower concentration nutrient inputs would maintain a clear state. Ponds containing plankton and juvenile fish were assigned to treatments with none, low, or high macrophyte densities, and weekly, high or biweekly (i.e., fortnightly), low nutrient inputs. Using additive mixed‐effects models, we demonstrated that temporal trajectories of phytoplankton biomass were explained by macrophyte density in interaction with biomass of important zooplankton grazers (Bosminidae, Sididae, and Daphniidae), as well as with pH and time. Phytoplankton biomass followed a convex unimodal trajectory in ponds with no or low macrophytes (muted in the latter), and minimal increases in high macrophyte treatments. Declines in phytoplankton attributable to top‐down control likely freed resources for periphyton and metaphyton, which subsequently became abundant in ponds without and with macrophytes, respectively. Our results demonstrate that high densities of macrophytes, combined with herbivory and competition for light between phytoplankton and metaphyton, enhance resilience of the clear water state to the undesirable effects associated with eutrophication.
Estimating taxon‐specific population dynamics in diverse microbial communities
Authors: Koch Benjamin J. , McHugh Theresa A. , Hayer Michaela , Schwartz Egbert , Blazewicz Steven J. , Dijkstra Paul , van Gestel Natasja , Marks Jane C. , Mau Rebecca L. , Morrissey Ember M. , Pett‐Ridge Jennifer , Hungate Bruce A.
Published: January 2018

Understanding how population‐level dynamics contribute to ecosystem‐level processes is a primary focus of ecological research and has led to important breakthroughs in the ecology of macroscopic organisms. However, the inability to measure population‐specific rates, such as growth, for microbial taxa within natural assemblages has limited ecologists’ understanding of how microbial populations interact to regulate ecosystem processes. Here, we use isotope incorporation within DNA molecules to model taxon‐specific population growth in the presence of 18O‐labeled water. By applying this model to phylogenetic marker sequencing data collected from stable‐isotope probing studies, we estimate rates of growth, mortality, and turnover for individual microbial populations within soil assemblages. When summed across the entire bacterial community, our taxon‐specific estimates are within the range of other whole‐assemblage measurements of bacterial turnover. Because it can be applied to environmental samples, the approach we present is broadly applicable to measuring population growth, mortality, and associated biogeochemical process rates of microbial taxa for a wide range of ecosystems and can help reveal how individual microbial populations drive biogeochemical fluxes.
Time‐lagged effects of weather on plant demography: drought and Astragalus scaphoides
Authors: Tenhumberg Brigitte , Crone Elizabeth E. , Ramula Satu , Tyre Andrew J.
Published: January 2018

Temperature and precipitation determine the conditions where plant species can occur. Despite their significance, to date, surprisingly few demographic field studies have considered the effects of abiotic drivers. This is problematic because anticipating the effect of global climate change on plant population viability requires understanding how weather variables affect population dynamics. One possible reason for omitting the effect of weather variables in demographic studies is the difficulty in detecting tight associations between vital rates and environmental drivers. In this paper, we applied Functional Linear Models (FLMs) to long‐term demographic data of the perennial wildflower, Astragalus scaphoides, and explored sensitivity of the results to reduced amounts of data. We compared models of the effect of average temperature, total precipitation, or an integrated measure of drought intensity (standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index, SPEI), on plant vital rates. We found that transitions to flowering and recruitment in year t were highest if winter/spring of year t was wet (positive effect of SPEI). Counterintuitively, if the preceding spring of year t − 1 was wet, flowering probabilities were decreased (negative effect of SPEI). Survival of vegetative plants from t − 1 to t was also negatively affected by wet weather in the spring of year t − 1 and, for large plants, even wet weather in the spring of t − 2 had a negative effect. We assessed the integrated effect of all vital rates on life history performance by fitting FLMs to the asymptotic growth rate, log(). Log() was highest if dry conditions in year t − 1 were followed by wet conditions in the year t. Overall, the positive effects of wet years exceeded their negative effects, suggesting that increasing frequency of drought conditions would reduce population viability of A. scaphoides. The drought signal weakened when reducing the number of monitoring years. Substituting space for time did not recover the weather signal, probably because the weather variables varied little between sites. We detected the SPEI signal when the analysis included data from two sites monitored over 20 yr (2 × 20 observations), but not when analyzing data from four sites monitored over 10 yr (4 × 10 observations).
Developing Leg‐Motion Measurement System Using Acceleration Sensors
Authors: ITOH TAKAKI , MORIOKA IKUHARU
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this study was to develop a new system for measuring leg motions using a portable three‐dimensional accelerometer applied to five positions of a lumbar vertebra, and left and right lower limbs. The measuring system was composed of acceleration sensors, harnesses of which resin material for a subject was removed, a portable data logger with a Bluetooth module mounted, a personal computer, a software for both monitoring and evaluating signals from the acceleration sensors, and a Web camera. The portable data logger had the ability to simultaneously sample the data of maximal 24 signals. The average acceleration measured during the walk was related to the score of Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence and that of Fall Risk Assessment Score Sheet. Thus, the new system for measuring leg motions using a portable three‐dimensional accelerometer seems to be a useful tool to estimate the fall risk during the walk.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Monodispersed LiMnPO4 (010) Nanobelts and [001] Nanorods and Their Applications in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bao Liang , Chen Yifan , Xu Gang , Yang Tao , Ji Zhenguo
Published: January 2018

Monodispersed single‐crystalline LiMnPO4 nanobelts and nanorods were successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. On the basis of the experimental results, a possible mechanism for the formation of the monodispersed LiMnPO4 nanobelts and nanorods was proposed. Compared with our previously proposed flowerlike, stamenlike LiMnPO4/C nanostructures self‐assembled with (010) nanosheets and [001] nanorods, the corresponding monodispersed nanoparticles show enhanced electrochemical performances due to the full carbon coating along the surface. Moreover, because of the narrowed size along [100], the LiMnPO4@C nanorods exhibit a much higher discharge capacity compared with that of the LiMnPO4@C nanobelts.
Process convolution approaches for modeling interacting trajectories
Authors: Scharf Henry R. , Hooten Mevin B. , Johnson Devin S. , Durban John W.
Published: January 2018

Gaussian processes are a fundamental statistical tool used in a wide range of applications. In the spatiotemporal setting, several families of covariance functions exist to accommodate a wide variety of dependence structures arising in different applications. These parametric families can be restrictive and are insufficient in some situations. In contrast, process convolutions represent a flexible, interpretable approach to defining the covariance of a Gaussian process and have modest requirements to ensure validity. We introduce a generalization of the process convolution approach that employs multiple convolutions sequentially to form a “process convolution chain”. In our proposed multistage framework, complex dependencies that arise from a combination of different interacting mechanisms are decomposed into a series of interpretable kernel smoothers. We demonstrate an application of process convolution chains to model killer whale movement, in which the paths taken by multiple individuals are not independent but reflect dynamic social interactions within the population. Our proposed model for dependent movement provides inference for the latent dynamic social structure in the study population. Additionally, by leveraging the positive dependence among individual paths, we achieve a reduction in uncertainty for the estimated locations of the killer whales, compared with a model that treats paths as independent.
Spatial modeling of pyroclastic cover deposit thickness (depth to bedrock) in peri‐volcanic areas of Campania (southern Italy)
Authors: Del Soldato Matteo , Pazzi Veronica , Segoni Samuele , De Vita Pantaleone , Tofani Veronica , Moretti Sandro
Published: January 2018

In this study, the main focus is the application and improvement of four empirical models, which account for the pyroclastic cover deposit thickness (PCDT) spatial distribution with respect to the bedrock surrounding the Somma‐Vesuvius volcano (Campania, southern Italy). Three models, which are already known in the literature, link the depth to bedrock to the morphological features of a slope. An original model called SEPT (slope exponential pyroclastic thickness) is presented in this manuscript and combines the initial total thickness of ash‐fall pyroclastic cover with the slope gradient. All models were applied and validated using field measurements derived from this and preceding studies in the study area.

The main finding is that the spatial distribution of the depth to bedrock in mountainous peri‐volcanic areas mainly depends on the initial thickness of air‐fallen material at a given position and slope angle. These findings allowed for the recognition of an ash‐fall pyroclastic depositional environment that is characterized by different processes from those existing in other geomorphological frameworks and in which the soil thickness along the slopes is controlled by the weathering of bedrock and the formation of soil in situ. Finally, in this research, a reliable approach is proposed that is also applicable to other peri‐volcanic areas of the world to assess the spatial distribution of the depth to bedrock, which is a fundamentally important parameter in distributed geomorphologic and hydrologic modeling. © 2018 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Landslides control the spatial and temporal variation of channel width in southern Taiwan: Implications for landscape evolution and cascading hazards in steep, tectonically active landscapes
Authors: Yanites Brian J. , Mitchell Nate A. , Bregy Joshua C. , Carlson Grace A. , Cataldo Kirstyn , Holahan Margaret , Johnston Graham H. , Nelson Amelia , Valenza Jeffery , Wanker Matthew
Published: January 2018

Intense precipitation or seismic events can generate clustered mass movement processes across a landscape. These rare events have significant impacts on the landscape, however, the rarity of such events leads to uncertainty in how they impact the entire geomorphic system over a range of timescales. Taiwan is steep, tectonically active, and prone to landslide and debris flows, especially when exposed to heavy rainfall events. Typhoon Morakot made landfall in Taiwan in August of 2009, causing widespread landslides in southern Taiwan. The south to north trend in valley relief in southern Taiwan leads to spatial variability in landslide susceptibility providing an opportunity to infer the long‐term impact of such landslide events on channel morphology. We use pre‐ and post‐typhoon imagery to quantify the propagating impact of this event on channel width as the debris is routed through the landscape. The results show the importance of cascading hazards from landslides on landscape evolution based on patterns of channel width (both pre‐ and post‐typhoon) and hillslope gradients in 20 basins along strike in southern Taiwan. Prior to Typhoon Morakot, the river channels in the central part of the study area were about 3–10 times wider than the channels in the south. Following the typhoon, aggradation and widening was also a maximum in these central to northern basins where hillslope gradients and channel steepness is high, accentuating the pre‐typhoon pattern. The results further show that the narrowest channels are located where channel steepness is the lowest, an observation inconsistent with a detachment‐limited model for river evolution. We infer this pattern is indicative of a strong role of sediment supply, and associated landslide events, on long‐term channel evolution. These findings have implications across a range of spatial and temporal scales including understanding the cascade of hazards in steep landscapes and geomorphic interpretation of channel morphology. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinicopathologic implications of TNFAIP3/A20 deletions in extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Ahn Hyein , Yang Jeong Mi , Jeon Yoon Kyung , Paik Jin Ho
Published: January 2018

The A20/Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha‐induced protein 3 (A20/TNFAIP3) is a negative regulator of NF‐κB signaling. We analyzed the clinicopathologic implications of A20 deletions in extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma (NKTL). Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of the A20 gene was performed using archived formalin‐fixed tissues in 49 cases of NKTL. Among the 49 NKTL patients (median age, 48 y [10‐79]), stage I‐II (75% [36/48]) and upper aerodigestive tract (UAT)‐origin (84% [41/49]) were predominant. All A20 deletions were monoallelic and found in cases with UAT‐origin, accounting for 18% (9/49) of all NKTLs and 22% (9/41) of UAT‐origin. In univariate analysis, overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were associated with stage, international prognostic index (IPI), B symptoms and number of extranodal sites, and OS with performance status and non‐UAT‐origin, but none with A20 deletion. In multivariate analysis, IPI predicted OS (P = .008 [HR = 23.4]) and PFS (P = .005 [HR = 34.0]). Risk was divided by B symptoms (P = .001 [OS]; P = .034 [PFS]) in low IPI subset (n = 36), and by A20 deletion (P = .029 [PFS]) in high IPI subset (n = 13). These results suggest a clinicopathologic implication of A20 in progression of NKTL.
MicroRNA‐31 is required for astrocyte specification
Authors: Meares Gordon P. , Rajbhandari Rajani , Gerigk Magda , Tien Chih‐Liang , Chang Chenbei , Fehling Samuel C. , Rowse Amber , Mulhern Kayln C. , Nair Sindhu , Gray G. Kenneth , Berbari Nicolas F. , Bredel Markus , Benveniste Etty N. , Nozell Susan E.
Published: January 2018

Previously, we determined microRNA‐31 (miR‐31) is a noncoding tumor suppressive gene frequently deleted in glioblastoma (GBM); miR‐31 suppresses tumor growth, in part, by limiting the activity of NF‐κB. Herein, we expand our previous studies by characterizing the role of miR‐31 during neural precursor cell (NPC) to astrocyte differentiation. We demonstrate that miR‐31 expression and activity is suppressed in NPCs by stem cell factors such as Lin28, c‐Myc, SOX2 and Oct4. However, during astrocytogenesis, miR‐31 is induced by STAT3 and SMAD1/5/8, which mediate astrocyte differentiation. We determined miR‐31 is required for terminal astrocyte differentiation, and that the loss of miR‐31 impairs this process and/or prevents astrocyte maturation. We demonstrate that miR‐31 promotes astrocyte development, in part, by reducing the levels of Lin28, a stem cell factor implicated in NPC renewal. These data suggest that miR‐31 deletions may disrupt astrocyte development and/or homeostasis.
Astroglial major histocompatibility complex class I following immune activation leads to behavioral and neuropathological changes
Authors: Sobue Akira , Ito Norimichi , Nagai Taku , Shan Wei , Hada Kazuhiro , Nakajima Akira , Murakami Yuki , Mouri Akihiro , Yamamoto Yasuko , Nabeshima Toshitaka , Saito Kuniaki , Yamada Kiyofumi
Published: January 2018

In the central nervous system, major histocompatibility complex class I (MHCI) molecules are mainly expressed in neurons, and neuronal MHCI have roles in synapse elimination and plasticity. However, the pathophysiological significance of astroglial MHCI remains unclear. We herein demonstrate that MHCI expression is up‐regulated in astrocytes in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) following systemic immune activation by an intraperitoneal injection of polyinosinic‐polycytidylic acid (polyI:C) or hydrodynamic interferon (IFN)‐γ gene delivery in male C57/BL6J mice. In cultured astrocytes, MHCI/H‐2D largely co‐localized with exosomes. To investigate the role of astroglial MHCI, H‐2D, or sH‐2D was expressed in the mPFC of male C57/BL6J mice using an adeno‐associated virus vector under the control of a glial fibrillary acidic protein promoter. The expression of astroglial MHCI in the mPFC impaired sociability and recognition memory in mice. Regarding neuropathological changes, MHCI expression in astrocytes significantly activated microglial cells, decreased parvalbumin‐positive cell numbers, and reduced dendritic spine density in the mPFC. A treatment with GW4869 that impairs exosome synthesis ameliorated these behavioral and neuropathological changes. These results suggest that the overexpression of MHCI in astrocytes affects microglial proliferation as well as neuronal numbers and spine densities, thereby leading to social and cognitive deficits in mice, possibly via exosomes created by astrocytes.
Tumor Progression Locus 2 in Hepatocytes Potentiates Both Liver and Systemic Metabolic Disorders in Mice
Authors: Gong Jun , Fang Chun , Zhang Peng , Wang Pi‐Xiao , Qiu Yixing , Shen Li‐Jun , Zhang Li , Zhu Xue‐Yong , Tian Song , Li Feng , Wang Zhihua , Huang Zan , Wang Aibing , Zhang Xiao‐Dong , She Zhi‐Gang
Published: January 2018

Tumor progression locus 2 (TPL2), a serine/threonine kinase, has been regarded as a potentially interesting target for the treatment of various diseases with an inflammatory component. However, the function of TPL2 in regulating hepatocyte metabolism and liver inflammation during the progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is poorly understood. Here, we report that TPL2 protein expression was significantly increased in fatty liver from diverse species, including humans, monkeys, and mice. Further investigations revealed that compared to wild‐type (WT) littermates, hepatocyte‐specific TPL2 knockout (HKO) mice exhibited improved lipid and glucose imbalance, reserved insulin sensitivity, and alleviated inflammation in response to high‐fat diet (HFD) feeding. Overexpression of TPL2 in hepatocytes led to the opposite phenotype. Regarding the mechanism, we found that mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 7 (MKK7) was the specific substrate of TPL2 for c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) activation. TPL2‐MKK7‐JNK signaling in hepatocytes represents a promising drugable target for treating NAFLD and associated metabolic disorders. Conclusion: In hepatocytes, TPL2 acts as a key mediator that promotes both liver and systemic metabolic disturbances by specifically increasing MKK7‐JNK activation.
Sphingosine‐1‐Phosphate Modulates the Effect of Estrogen in Human Osteoblasts
Authors: Tantikanlayaporn Duangrat , Tourkova Irina L , Larrouture Quitterie , Luo Jianhua , Piyachaturawat Pawinee , Witt Michelle R , Blair Harry C , Robinson Lisa J
Published: January 2018

Production of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is linked to 17β‐estradiol (E2) activity in many estrogen‐responsive cells; in bone development, the role of S1P is unclear. We studied effects of S1P on proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts (hOB). Ten nM E2, 1 μM S1P, or 1 μM of the S1P receptor 1 (S1PR1) agonist SEW2871 increased hOB proliferation at 24 hours. S1PR 1, 2, and 3 mRNAs are expressed by hOB but not S1PR4 or S1PR5. Expression of S1PR2 was increased at 7 and 14 days of differentiation, in correspondence with osteoblast‐related mRNAs. Expression of S1PR1 was increased by E2 or S1P in proliferating hOB, whereas S1PR2 mRNA was unaffected in proliferating cells; S1PR3 was not affected by E2 or S1P. Inhibiting sphingosine kinase (SPHK) activity with sphingosine kinase inhibitor (Ski) greatly reduced the E2 proliferative effect. Both E2 and S1P increased SPHK mRNA at 24 hours in hOB. S1P promoted osteoblast proliferation via activating MAP kinase activity. Either E2 or S1P increased S1P synthesis in a fluorescent S1P assay. Interaction of E2 and S1P signaling was indicated by upregulation of E2 receptor mRNA after S1P treatment. E2 and S1P also promoted alkaline phosphatase expression. During osteoblast differentiation, S1P increased bone‐specific mRNAs, similarly to the effects of E2. However, E2 and S1P showed differences in the activation of some osteoblast pathways. Pathway analysis by gene expression arrays was consistent with regulation of pathways of osteoblast differentiation; collagen and cell adhesion proteins centered on Rho/Rac small GTPase signaling and Map kinase or signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat) intermediates. Transcriptional activation also included significant increases in superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 transcription by either S1P or E2. We demonstrate that the SPHK system is a co‐mediator for osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, which is mainly, but not entirely, complementary to E2, whose effects are mediated by S1PR1 and S1PR2. © 2018 The Authors JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The long non‐coding RNA H19 rs217727 polymorphism is associated with PE susceptibility
Authors: Harati‐Sadegh Mahdiyeh , Kohan Leila , Teimoori Batool , Salimi Saeedeh
Published: January 2018

H19 is an imprinted gene transcribing a long noncoding RNA which was previously reported to be involved in some diseases. However, the association between the H19 polymorphisms and Pre‐eclampsia (PE) susceptibility has remained elusive. This study aimed to evaluate the association between three H19 haplotype SNPs (rs3741219, rs217727, and rs2107425) and the risk of PE. The present case control study consisted of 193 PE women and 201 controls. The H19 rs3741219 and rs217727 polymorphisms were genotyped with PCR‐RFLP (Polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism) and the H19 rs2107425 polymorphism with ARMS‐PCR (Amplification refractory mutation system) methods. The frequency of alleles and genotypes of H19 rs3741219 and rs2107425 polymorphisms did not differ between PE women and controls. The frequency of the H19 rs217727T allele was significantly higher in PE women (P < 0.0001). The H19 rs217727 polymorphism was associated with higher PE susceptibility in the Co‐dominant (OR = 12.1, 95% CI = 5.7‐24.5, P < 0.0001 for CT genotype and OR = 29.7, 95% CI = 12.9‐68.1, P < 0.0001 for TT genotype), Dominant (OR = 15.1, 95% CI = 7.5‐30.3, P = P < 0.0001), Recessive (OR = 4.5, 95% CI = 2.6‐7.9, P = < 0.0001), and Over‐dominant (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.4‐3.1, P = 0.0006) models. Furthermore, the CCC, TCT, TCC, and CCT haplotypes of H19 rs3741219, rs217727, rs2107425 were associated with lower risk of PE; however, the CTC, TTC, and TTT haplotypes were associated with higher risk of PE. In conclusion, the present study found the relationship between H19 rs217727 but not rs3741219 and rs2107425 polymorphisms and PE susceptibility. In addition, the CTC, TTC, and TTT haplotypes were associated with the higher risk of PE.
Integrin alpha V beta 3 targeted dendrimer‐rapamycin conjugate reduces fibroblast‐mediated prostate tumor progression and metastasis
Authors: Hill Elliott E. , Kim Jin Koo , Jung Younghun , Neeley Chris K. , Pienta Kenneth J. , Taichman Russell S. , Nor Jacques E. , Baker James R. , Krebsbach Paul H.
Published: January 2018

Therapeutic strategies targeting both cancer cells and associated cells in the tumor microenvironment offer significant promise in cancer therapy. We previously reported that generation 5 (G5) dendrimers conjugated with cyclic‐RGD peptides target cells expressing integrin alpha V beta 3. In this study, we report a novel dendrimer conjugate modified to deliver the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, rapamycin. In vitro analyses demonstrated that this drug conjugate, G5‐FI‐RGD‐rapamycin, binds to prostate cancer (PCa) cells and fibroblasts to inhibit mTOR signaling and VEGF expression. In addition, G5‐FI‐RGD‐rapamycin inhibits mTOR signaling in cancer cells more efficiently under proinflammatory conditions compared to free rapamycin. In vivo studies established that G5‐FI‐RGD‐rapamycin significantly inhibits fibroblast‐mediated PCa progression and metastasis. Thus, our results suggest the potential of new rapamycin‐conjugated multifunctional nanoparticles for PCa therapy.
Retracted: Upregulation of Klotho potentially inhibits pulmonary vascular remodeling by blocking the activation of the Wnt signaling pathway in rats with PM2.5‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Cong Lu‐Hong , Du Shi‐Yu , Wu Yi‐Na , Liu Ying , Li Tao , Wang Hui , Li Gang , Duan Jun
Published: January 2018

We evaluated the effects of Klotho on pulmonary vascular remodeling and cell proliferation and apoptosis in rat models with PM2.5‐induced pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) via the Wnt signaling pathway. After establishing rat models of PM2.5‐induced PAH, these Sprague‐Dawley male rats were randomized into control and model groups. Cells extracted from the model rats were sub‐categorized into different groups. Activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling transcription factor was detected by a TOPFlash/FOPFlash assay. A serial of experiment was conducted to identify the mechanism of Klotho on PHA via the Wnt signaling pathway. VEGF levels and PaCO2 content were higher in the model group, while PaO2, NO2−/NO3− content and Klotho level was lower compared to the control group. In comparison to the control group, the model group had decreased Klotho and Bax levels, and elevated Wnt‐1, β‐catenin, bcl‐2, survivin, and PCNA expression, VEGF, IL‐6, TNF‐α, TNF‐β1, and bFGF levels, as well as the percentage of pulmonary artery ring contraction. The Klotho vector, DKK‐1 and DKK‐1 + Klotho vector groups exhibited reduced cell proliferation, luciferase activity, and the expression of Wnt‐1, β‐catenin, bcl‐2, survivin, and PCNA, as well as shortened S phase compared with the blank and NC groups. Compared with the Klotho vector and DKK‐1 groups, the DKK‐1 + Klotho vector groups had reduced cell proliferation, luciferase activity, and the expression of Wnt‐1, β‐catenin, bcl‐2, survivin, and PCNA, as well as a shortened S phase. Conclusively, Klotho inhibits pulmonary vascular remodeling by inactivation of Wnt signaling pathway.