bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An in vitro model for photosynthetic cancer treatment: a study of photosynthetic and tumor cell co-culture
Authors:   , Holmes Videla Christopher
Published: September 2024

La baja tensión de oxígeno (hipoxia) en tumores conlleva a la resistencia de una serie de tratamientos clínicos, por lo que el uso de microorganismos fotosintéticos se ha planteado recientemente como una alternativa segura para proveer de oxígeno al microambiente tumoral. En este trabajo se estudió la biocompatibilidad de la microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii con condiciones de crecimiento de células mamíferas. Se cultivó esta microalga junto con células de melanoma, con ambos tipos celulares resultando biocompatibles entre sí, pero con las microalgas afectando la organización del citoesqueleto de las células tumorales. Se observó que la oxigenación en co-cultivos era suficiente para eliminar condiciones de hipoxia y producir más oxigeno del requerido metabólicamente por las células tumorales. Se observó que esta producción de oxígeno era capaz de aumentar la muerte tumoral por radioterapia. Como último objetivo se estableció un modelo tumoral fotosintético en 3D por medio de una matriz de colágeno. Se estudiaron las interacciones entre ambos tipos celulares con la matriz junto con la oxigenación de células tumorales en un ambiente 3D hipóxico. Se demostró que ambos tipos celulares son biocompatibles por al menos 24 horas de contacto en condiciones de cultivo celular y que una razón de 10:1 microalgas a células, era capaz de cumplir con los requerimientos metabólicos de las células tumorales, produciendo un exceso de más del doble del oxígeno requerido, el cual puede ser usado a futuro para terapias antitumorales. Este trabajo muestra ue el uso de Chlamydomonas reinhardtii es una alternativa viable para la oxigenación de tumores para tratamiento clínicos, mientras que el modelo tumoral fotosintético in vitro presentado nos entregó un simple recurso para estudiar los efectos de la fotosíntesis en el microambiente tumoral y una herramienta para manipular esta aproximación para optimizar su uso en terapias clínicas.
Lectura distante de la producción escrita de estudiantes de pregrado de la Facultad de Educación de la Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú, entre los años 2015 al 2019
Authors:   , Martel Flores Angeluz Yesica
Published: September 2024

El principal objetivo es analizar indicadores cuantitativos en corpus de producciones escritas de estudiantes de pregrado de la Facultad de Educación en la Universidad Nacional del Centro del Perú (UNCP) entre 2015 -2019 a través de la técnica de lectura distante. Se realizó el análisis de corpus de 103 producciones escritas (tesis) de seis especialidades (Educación Inicial, Educación Primaria, Educación Ciencias Matemáticas e Informática, Educación Lenguas, Literatura y Comunicación, Educación Filosofía y Relaciones Humanas, Educación Física y Psicomotricidad). Se utilizó la herramienta informática Voyant Tools para el análisis de contenido de corpus de textos. Se concluye que las producciones escritas tienen un número de palabras similares entorno al promedio, deduciendo que el volumen de la producción es bastante homogéneo. La especialidad de Educación Lenguas, Literatura y Comunicación presenta el mayor promedio de densidad léxica, con mayor contenido de variedad de palabras y riqueza léxica en sus producciones escritas. Se obtuvieron palabras relevantes del corpus, observando pocas palabras con peso estadístico significativo. Se propone un promedio de 8,000 palabras para el volumen de la producción.
Statistical Perspective on Coronary Angiography Findings: Examining the Influence of Hereditary Characteristics, Behaviour, and Self-Control Factors among Study Participants
Authors: Jadhav Sharada Ashok , Garud Sharmishtha K , Shelke Abhijeet B , Kakade Satish V , Kadam Sheela D
Published: September 2024

Introduction: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), and the American Heart Association (AHA), the issued prediction charts can be used to make an absolute prediction of a study variable’s Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) risk. This study aimed to examine the combined effects of gender, Family History (FH) of CVD, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, smoking, physical activity levels, and other health conditions on the presence of CVD confirmed by angiography. Predicting CVD risk is crucial; particularly because young individuals aged 25 to 40 are affected by these diseases and from the foundation of any nation. Moreover, CVDs significantly contribute to human mortality compared to other ailments. This approach sought to identify the risk factors for CVD. Aim: To investigate the impact and the association between hereditary characteristics, behaviour, and self-control factors on coronary angiography findings among the study participants from a statistical viewpoint. Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study related to angiography report of 274 study participants visiting the Department of cardiology at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad, Maharashtra with complaints of CVD was conducted from January 2023 to May 2023. Statistical Analysis was performed with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.0, InStat and Microsoft Excel. Chi-square test was applied to study association of demographic study parameters with CVD. Logistic regression was carried out to develop the regression model. Results: Angiography significant CVD was associated with father’s history of CVD (40, 71.42%), alcohol consumption (68, 70.8%), tobacco chewing (115, 69.7%), no exercise (89,79.46%), diabetes (83,75.45%), and diabetic with medication (14,93.33%) showed significant associations with CVD. Logistic regression analysis identified these variables as the best predictors of CVD. Genetics, lifestyle choices, and co-morbidities all contribute to the risk of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Conclusion: The study effectively identifies and quantifies the relationships between hereditary characteristics, behavioural factors, and self-control measures with coronary angiography findings. Exercise and diabetic status are significant predictors of the outcome, while tobacco-chewing leans towards significance and other studied variables are at their reference levels. This predictive model will help clinicians, patients, and their families in mentally preparing for confirmation of the disease’s presence or absence.
Comprehensive Anaemia Profile in Ulcerative Colitis Patients with Varying Disease Severities: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Garg Manjri , Sindhu Pranjjal , Dahiya Kiran , Goyal Sandeep
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Anaemia is the most common Extraintestinal Manifestation (EIM) associated with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and has been linked to increased mortality in UC patients, with iron deficiency having the most pronounced effect. Moreover, iron deficiency in UC can occur with or without anaemia. Aim: To assess anaemia and iron deficiency, with or without anaemia, in UC patients. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India, from August 2020 to December 2021. Study included 75 patients with UC and varying levels of disease activity. A complete haemogram, Red Blood Cell (RBC) indices, and serum iron studies {serum iron levels, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), Transferrin Saturation (TfS), and serum ferritin} were conducted. Patients were classified as having Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA), Anaemia of Chronic Disease (ACD), or mixed anaemia based on the results of the iron studies. Disease activity was assessed using the Mayo score. Patients were divided into group I (mild disease activity) and group II (moderate to severe disease activity). Haemoglobin (Hb), RBC indices and iron levels were compared between the two groups. Independent t-tests and Chi-square tests were employed for statistical analysis. Results: The mean±Standard Deviation (SD) age of the patients was 34.8±14 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.7:1. The mean±SD duration of the disease was 28.8±33.8 months (median: 12 months). Fifteen patients had mild disease activity, 52 had moderate activity, and eight had severe activity. The mean±SD Hb level among the patients was 11.1±2.0 g/dL. The mean±SD values for Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin (MCH), and Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) were 80.4±7.7 fL, 26.4±4.0 pg, and 32.1±2.5 g/dL, respectively. The mean±SD serum iron level and ferritin levels were 59.3±29.1 mcg/dL and 27.2±27.9 ng/mL, respectively. The mean±SD TfS was 14.3±10.8%, while the mean±SD TIBC was 337.1±80.5 mcg/dL. A total of 45 (60%) patients had anaemia, and 16 (21.3%) patients had iron deficiency without anaemia. Among those with anaemia, 32 (42.7%) had IDA and 13 (17.3%) had mixed anaemia; none of the patients had ACD. In total, 61 (81.3%) patients had iron deficiency, with or without anaemia. Hb, RBC indices and iron studies were comparable between both groups. Conclusion: Iron deficiency anaemia is common in UC patients, affecting 60% of the cohort; however, iron deficiency without anaemia was also observed in 21.3% of patients. Changes in Hb, RBC indices and iron studies were independent of disease activity.
The Impact of Sensory Processing on Sleep among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Raj S Deepak Vignesh , Umaiorubagam Ganapathy Sankar , Sandeep Redkar Simran
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Sleep disturbances are highly prevalent among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Many studies on sleep in children with ASD have reported a high incidence of irregular sleep patterns and poor sleep quality. Recent research has highlighted the potential link between Sensory Processing (SP) difficulties and sleep disturbances in children with ASD. Therefore, a comprehensive knowledge of the evidence exploring the relationship between SP and sleep in children with ASD is needed to provide insights into targeted interventions and support strategies to improve sleep outcomes and the overall quality of life in children with ASD. Aim: This systematic review aims to investigate the relationship between SP and sleep in children with ASD aged 3 to 12 years. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of articles was conducted across databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and OTseeker. The following major keywords were used during the database searches: Sensory processing, sensory integration, sensory processing disorder, sensory integration disorder, sleep, sleep disorder, sleep problems, sleep disturbances, and autism spectrum disorder. The McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies was utilised to evaluate the methodological quality of the included articles. Results: Through electronic and manual searches, 2,612 articles were identified after removing duplicates. Among these, nine articles published between January 2012 and December 2022 met the predetermined inclusion criteria. Of these, eight studies reported a statistically significant correlation between SP difficulties and sleep disturbances. Conclusion: This review underscores the significant impact of SP challenges on the sleep quality of children diagnosed with ASD, aged 3 to 12 years.
Purtscher-like Retinopathy following Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report
Authors: Vatkar Vishakha Tulshiram , Rao Rutu Kaushikbhai , Mushtaq Iqra , Bhavsar Deepaswi , Goyal Khushboo Anand
Published: September 2024

Purtscher Retinopathy (PR) is also known as traumatic retinal angiopathy or lymphorrhagia retinae or retinal teletraumatism. It presents as occlusive retinal microvasculopathy distinguished by the presence of multiple retinal white lesions surrounding the optic nerve head and fovea, accompanied by perivascular clearing, often coinciding with intraretinal haemorrhages. Correlated conditions comprise of acute pancreatitis, crush injuries, severe head trauma, chest compression, long bone fractures, orthopaedic surgical procedures, Haemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelets (HELLP) syndrome and battered baby syndrome. PR is a rare microvasculopathy, which is occlusive in nature and causes sudden and painless diminution of vision following serious trauma but might also be associated with non-traumatic aetiologies as well. The term Purtscher-like retinopathy is used when it occurs due to non-traumatic causes. Here, the authors present a case of a 25-year-old female, admitted to the hospital for severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea and multiple episodes of vomiting since two days. Her laboratory findings and radiological investigations revealed findings suggestive of acute pancreatitis. On day 2 of admission, she reported a bilateral diminution of vision. The ophthalmic evaluation revealed visual impairment and characteristic retinal findings of Purtscher flecken, cotton wool spots and few intraretinal haemorrhages mainly in the posterior pole. This case highlights the association between Purtscher-like retinopathy and acute pancreatitis.
Teacher Achievement Motivation and Students Academic Performance in Science Subjects in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education in Ijara Sub County, Kenya
Authors: Abdi Fatuma Aden , Rotich Stephen Kipkorir , Muriithi Njoka
Published: September 2024

Motivation plays a critical role in the success and profitability of an organization, particularly in shaping human capital, which is a company's most valuable asset. This study aimed to examine the relationship between teachers' achievement motivation and students' academic performance in science subjects in secondary schools within Ijara Sub-County. A survey research design was employed to gather primary data that was collected, maintained, and analyzed according to the study's objectives. The research targeted 4 principals, 36 teachers, and 16 students from 4 examination secondary schools in the sub-county, utilizing a census method instead of sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires. Both quantitative and qualitative data analyses were conducted to provide descriptive insights. Additionally, multiple linear regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between the independent variables; working conditions, professional development, safety and security, and availability of instructional materials, and the dependent variable, which was student academic performance. The study's findings indicated that there is a statistically significant relationship between teachers' working conditions and students’ academic performance in science subjects at the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) level in Ijara Sub-County (p-value < 0.01, r = 0.762). Teachers' professional development also showed a moderate influence on students' academic performance in science (p-value > 0.01, r = 0.673). Safety and security had a moderate impact on student academic performance (p-value < 0.01, r = 0.626), while instructional resources for science teaching strongly influenced students' academic performance (p-value < 0.01, r = 0.711). Overall, the study concluded that all independent variables—working conditions, professional development, safety and security, and instructional resources; collectively had a significant influence on students' academic performance in science subjects at the KCSE level in Ijara Sub-County (p-value < 0.01, r = 0.888).
Self-healing Building Materials for Enhanced Durability and Sustainability in Construction
Authors: Arum Chinaecherem Tochukwu , Bbumba Simon , Kigozi Moses , Karume Ibrahim , Kato Maximillian , Yikii Collins Letibo , Kiganda Ivan
Published: September 2024

Herein, we reviewed self-healing materials as a tool for building durable and sustainable construction materials in the industrial sector. It's a known fact that a person spends most of his life in rooms built from various building materials; therefore, the optimization of the human environment is an important and complex task that requires interdisciplinary approaches. The construction industry is continually seeking innovative solutions to address the challenges of durability and sustainability in building materials. This study explores the promising realm of self-healing building materials, presenting a pathway toward revolutionizing the construction landscape. Self-healing materials possess the intrinsic ability to repair damage autonomously, mitigating the impact of wear, weathering, and structural stress. This paper examines the underlying principles and mechanisms of self-healing materials, shedding light on their potential applications in enhancing the lifespan of structures and minimizing maintenance requirements. Furthermore, the various types of self-healing technologies, each offering unique advantages and challenges, are addressed.
Silvicultural Management Impact on Soil Mycorrhizal Association in Tigray Parklands Agroforestry Practices
Authors: Gebrewahid Yikunoamlak , Eyasu Gebru
Published: September 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a vital role in plant growth and nutrient uptake. This study examined the effects of canopy distance and pruning frequency on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spore density and root colonization in tree species of the Hawzen District, Northern Ethiopia. Experimental plots were established with varying distances from the canopy and pruning regimes. AMF spore density ranged from 63.33 to 277.67 spores per 100 g of dry soil, with a mean of 147.25 spores. Despite different canopy distances and pruning frequencies, no significant variations in spore density were observed, suggesting an uneven distribution. All essential AMF structures were found in the tree roots, including hyphae, vesicles, and arbuscules. Total root colonization (TRC) was 95.36%, with arbuscular colonization (AC) at 13.10%, vesicular colonization (VC) at 9.11%, hyphal colonization (HC) at 31.63%, and mycorrhizal hyphal colonization (MHC) at 20.68%. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in TRC, AC, HC, and MHC among treatments, indicating a robust mycorrhizal association. However, VC remained unaffected. Canopy distance and pruning frequency have influence AMF distribution, The presence of all AMF structures in the tree roots emphasizes the crucial role of mycorrhizal symbiosis in promoting plant growth and resilience in the Hawzen District.
Evaluation of Coloured Sticky Traps for Monitoring the Population of Budfly, Dasyneura lini on Linseed Crop
Authors: Kashyap Sushmita , Katlam Bhanu Pratap , Monika  , Birjhu
Published: September 2024

A field study was conducted at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Raipur, Chhattisgarh Rabi 2022-23 and 2023-24 to evaluate the use of different coloured sticky traps to assess the colour magnestism of budfly infecting linseed. The attractiveness of nine colour yellow, light yellow, blue, light blue, white, green, grey, pink, orange, brown, black and transparent (check) were evaluated during 2022-23 and 2023-24. Among the colour sticky traps average budfly attracted were maximum in the yellow coloured sticky traps during both the seasons with the cumulative value of 14.62 budfly/trap. The highest number of budfly trapped in yellow-coloured sticky trap over the crop growth period than other sticky traps. Lowest number of budfly catches were recorded in black traps in this experiment.
Inter and Intraserotype Variations of Streptococcus Pneumoniae Pathogenicity in Mice and Rabbits
Authors: J AL-Janabi,AA , IMS Shnawa , AM AL-Sadi
Published: September 2024

The small mammalian labratory animals, the mice and the rabbits were tempted to be pathogenicity models for S. pneumoniae serotypes 1 and 6, the infecting doses were 0.3ml for mice and 0.5 ml for rabbits. These infectious doses were rated to a count of 1X 10 to 7 CFU/ml. The infection routes were intrapreritoneal for mice and intranasal for rabbits. The gold standard criteria for pathogenicity were the death end point DEP.DEP was up to 24hr for mice and ranged from four to 14  days in rabbits. Mice was more susciptable than rabbits for S. pneumoniae serotypes infections. Autopsy cultures of blood, lungs, liver and kideys were producing same infecting serotype both  from mice and rabbits. This isolation profile was indicating  bacterimic state induced by infection. Different serotypes have shown different death end points duration time. There were inter and intraserotype variations in DEP. Moderate to severe respiratory disease conditions RDC was noted in mice while mild RDC in rabbits. Both of the tested models were similar lung histology to man. The histological features of this experimental infections have shown that the infected mice and rabbits  were of bronchopneumonia type. It appears that both mice and rabbits were standing as valid laboratory animal models for these local clinical isolates of S. pneumoniae serotypes.
Tetraarylethylenes from Diarylmethanones and Hexachlorodisilane: The “Sila‐McMurry” Reaction
Authors: Moxter Maximilian , Tillmann Jan , Füser Matthias , Bolte Michael , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram , Wagner Matthias
Published: October 2016

Hexachlorodisilane reacts with diarylmethanones (aryl=C6H5, 4‐MeC6H4, 4‐tBuC6H4, 4‐ClC6H4, 4‐BrC6H4) to furnish the corresponding tetraarylethylenes in good yields. The reductive conversion requires temperatures of about 160 °C and reaction times of 60–72 h. In the initial step, the Lewis‐basic carbonyl groups likely generate low‐valent [SiCl2] as an analogue of [TiCl2] in the classical McMurry reaction. The coupling sequence further proceeds via benzopinacolones, which have been isolated as key intermediates.
Impact of a Novel Bioabsorbable Implant on Radiation Treatment Planning for Breast Cancer
Authors: Cross Michael J. , Lebovic Gail S. , Ross Joseph , Jones Scott , Smith Arnold , Harms Steven
Published: October 2016

Background

Techniques for accurately delineating the tumor bed after breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) can be challenging. As a result, the accuracy, and efficiency of radiation treatment (RT) planning can be negatively impacted. Surgically placed clips or the post‐surgical seroma are commonly used to determine target volume; however, these methods can lead to a high degree of uncertainty and variability. A novel 3‐dimensional bioabsorbable marker was used during BCS and assessed for its impact on RT planning.

Methods

One hundred and ten implants were sutured to the margins of the tumor bed excision site in 108 patients undergoing BCS. Routine CT imaging of the breast tissue was performed for RT planning, and the marker was assessed for visibility and utility in target delineation. RT regimens, target volumes and associated treatment costs were analyzed.

Results

In all patients, the marker was easily visible and in 95.7 % of cases, it proved useful for RT planning. 36.8 % of patients received conventional whole breast irradiation plus boost, 56.6 % received hypo‐fractionation plus boost, and 6.6 % received accelerated partial breast irradiation. A shift toward increased use of hypo‐fractionated regimens was noted over the three year period of this study. There were no device‐related complications or cancer recurrences in this group of patients.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the use of a novel 3‐dimensional marker as a safe and effective method for delineating the tumor bed with a significant utility for RT planning. With routine use of the device, an increased use of hypofractionation with a resultant 25 % cost savings was noted.
Personality and Values Based Materialism: Their Relationship and Origins
Authors: Ahuvia Aaron C. , Wong Nancy Y.
Published: October 2016

This research investigates the developmental processes by which consumers become more or less materialistic. It begins with a review of Inglehart's work in this area, and then applies his theories to explain conceptions of materialism developed by Richins and Belk. Inglehart predicts that the subjective experience of economic deprivation and insecurity during one's formative years leads to adult materialism. Early subjective experiences of deprivation and insecurity strongly predict materialism as conceptualized by Belk, but are not related to materialism as conceptualized by Richins. Inglehart also allows for the social influence of family and peers to shape materialistic orientations. Findings indicate that the formative social influence of family and peers predicts both Belk's and Richins's materialism. This difference between Belk's and Richins's materialism is explained on the grounds that Belk's materialism reflects personality whereas Richins's reflects personal values.
OPTIMAL FINANCING AND DIVIDEND DISTRIBUTION WITH TRANSACTION COSTS IN THE CASE OF RESTRICTED DIVIDEND RATES
Authors: Zhu Jinxia
Published: October 2016

We consider the optimal financing (capital injections) and dividend payment problem for a Brownian motion model in the case of restricted dividend rates. The company has no obligation to inject capitals and therefore, the bankruptcy risk is present. Capital injections, if any, will incur both fixed and proportional transaction costs and dividend payments incur proportional transaction costs. The aim is to find the optimal strategy to maximize the expected present value of dividend payments minus the total cost of capital injections up to the time of bankruptcy. The problem is formulated as a mixed impulse-regular control problem. We address the problem via studying three cases of two auxiliary functions. We derive important analytical properties of the auxiliary functions and use them to study the value function and then identify the optimal control strategy. We show that the optimal dividend control is of threshold type and the optimal financing strategy prescribes to either never inject capitals or inject capitals only when the surplus reaches 0 with a fixed lump sum amount.
Nutrition education linked to agricultural interventions improved child dietary diversity in rural Cambodia
Authors: Reinbott Anika , Schelling Anna , Kuchenbecker Judith , Jeremias Theresa , Russell Iean , Kevanna Ou , Krawinkel Michael B. , Jordan Irmgard
Published: October 2016

Poor infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices are major determinants of chronic malnutrition. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of a nutrition education (NE) programme aimed at promoting improved IYCF behaviours in combination with an agriculture intervention on children’s dietary diversity and nutritional status. From 2012 to 2014, a cluster randomised trial was rolled out in Cambodia in the context of an agriculture and nutrition project of the FAO of the UN. The cross-sectional baseline study was carried out in sixteen pre-selected communes in 2012. Restricted randomisation allotted the communes to either intervention (NE and agriculture intervention) or comparison arms (agriculture intervention only). The impact survey was conducted as a census in all FAO project villages in 2014. Caregivers of children aged 0–23 months were interviewed using standardised questions on socio-economic status and dietary diversity (24-h recall). Anthropometric measurements were taken. A difference-in-differences model was applied. The sample comprised 743 households with children ≥6 months of age at baseline and 921 at impact. After 1 year of NE, 69 % of the intervention households reported to have participated in the NE. Estimated mean child dietary diversity was significantly different at impact between comparison and intervention (3·6 and 3·9, respectively). In particular, the consumption of pro-vitamin A-rich foods and other fruits and vegetables increased. No treatment effects on height-for-age Z-scores could be shown. NE led to improvements in children’s diets. For effects on growth, it is assumed that longer NE activities are required to achieve sustainable behaviour change of age-appropriate infant feeding.
Catholic Judaism: The Political Theology of the Nineteenth-Century Russian Jewish Enlightenment
Authors: Stern Eliyahu
Published: October 2016

“It is true,” conceded the Russian Minister of Education on 17 March 1841, those “fanatics” who held fast to the Talmud “were not mistaken” in ascribing a missionary impulse to his project of enlightening Russia's Jewish population. The Jews’ anxieties were understandable, Count Sergei Uvarov admitted, “for is not the religion of Christ the purest symbol of grazhdanstvennost’ [civil society]?” Since conquering Polish-Lithuanian lands in 1795, the Russian government had been unable to establish a consistent policy for integrating its Jewish population into the social and political fabric of the Empire. Most notably, it restricted Jews to living in what was called the Pale of Settlement, a geographic region that includes lands in present day Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Moldova, Belarus, and Lithuania. The Jews of the Empire were highly observant, spoke their own languages, and occupied specific economic roles. Buoyed by the reformist initiatives that had begun to take hold in Jewish populations based in western European countries, Uvarov hoped to begin a similar process among Russia's Jews.
CME: Morbus Whipple – eine seltene, aber nicht zu verpassende Differenzialdiagnose
Authors: Greuter Thomas , Schoedon Gabriele , Schneemann Markus
Published: October 2016

Zusammenfassung. Der Morbus Whipple ist eine seltene, chronisch verlaufende Systemerkrankung, die durch das ubiquitär vorhandene Bakterium Tropheryma whipplei verursacht wird und v.a. weisse Männer im mittleren Alter befällt. Die typischen Symptome sind Gelenkbeschwerden, Gewichtsverlust, Diarrhö und Abdominalschmerzen. In einem fortgeschrittenen Stadium kommt es zu neurologischen Komplikationen. Gelenkbeschwerden können den übrigen Symptomen um Jahre vorausgehen. Meist kann die Diagnose mittels Duodenalbiopsien gestellt werden. Die Therapie beinhaltet eine Induktionstherapie (i.d.R. Ceftriaxon) sowie eine Erhaltungstherapie (Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazol) für mindestens ein Jahr. Ohne Therapie verläuft die Erkrankung in der Regel tödlich.
Mechanistic evaluation and transcriptional signature of a glutathione S-transferase omega 1 inhibitor
Authors: Ramkumar Kavya , Samanta Soma , Kyani Anahita , Yang Suhui , Tamura Shuzo , Ziemke Elizabeth , Stuckey Jeanne A. , Li Si , Chinnaswamy Krishnapriya , Otake Hiroyuki , Debnath Bikash , Yarovenko Vladimir , Sebolt-Leopold Judith S. , Ljungman Mats , Neamati Nouri
Published: October 2016

Glutathione S-transferase omega 1 (GSTO1) is an atypical GST isoform that is overexpressed in several cancers and has been implicated in drug resistance. Currently, no small-molecule drug targeting GSTO1 is under clinical development. Here we show that silencing of GSTO1 with siRNA significantly impairs cancer cell viability, validating GSTO1 as a potential new target in oncology. We report on the development and characterization of a series of chloroacetamide-containing potent GSTO1 inhibitors. Co-crystal structures of GSTO1 with our inhibitors demonstrate covalent binding to the active site cysteine. These potent GSTO1 inhibitors suppress cancer cell growth, enhance the cytotoxic effects of cisplatin and inhibit tumour growth in colon cancer models as single agent. Bru-seq-based transcription profiling unravelled novel roles for GSTO1 in cholesterol metabolism, oxidative and endoplasmic stress responses, cytoskeleton and cell migration. Our findings demonstrate the therapeutic utility of GSTO1 inhibitors as anticancer agents and identify the novel cellular pathways under GSTO1 regulation in colorectal cancer.
Large linear magnetoresistance in heavily-doped Nb:SrTiO3 epitaxial thin films
Authors: Jin Hyunwoo , Lee Keundong , Baek Seung-Hyub , Kim Jin-Sang , Cheong Byung-ki , Park Bae Ho , Yoon Sungwon , Suh B. J. , Kim Changyoung , Seo S. S. A. , Lee Suyoun
Published: October 2016

Interaction between electrons has long been a focused topic in condensed-matter physics since it has led to the discoveries of astonishing phenomena, for example, high-Tc superconductivity and colossal magnetoresistance (CMR) in strongly-correlated materials. In the study of strongly-correlated perovskite oxides, Nb-doped SrTiO3 (Nb:SrTiO3) has been a workhorse not only as a conducting substrate, but also as a host possessing high carrier mobility. In this work, we report the observations of large linear magnetoresistance (LMR) and the metal-to-insulator transition (MIT) induced by magnetic field in heavily-doped Nb:STO (SrNb0.2Ti0.8O3) epitaxial thin films. These phenomena are associated with the interplay between the large classical MR due to high carrier mobility and the electronic localization effect due to strong spin-orbit coupling, implying that heavily Nb-doped Sr(Nb0.2Ti0.8)O3 is promising for the application in spintronic devices.
Matrix factorization reveals aging-specific co-expression gene modules in the fat and muscle tissues in nonhuman primates
Authors: Wang Yongcui , Zhao Weiling , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: October 2016

Accurate identification of coherent transcriptional modules (subnetworks) in adipose and muscle tissues is important for revealing the related mechanisms and co-regulated pathways involved in the development of aging-related diseases. Here, we proposed a systematically computational approach, called ICEGM, to Identify the Co-Expression Gene Modules through a novel mathematical framework of Higher-Order Generalized Singular Value Decomposition (HO-GSVD). ICEGM was applied on the adipose and heart and skeletal muscle tissues in old and young female African green vervet monkeys. The genes associated with the development of inflammation, cardiovascular and skeletal disorder diseases and cancer were revealed by the ICEGM. Meanwhile, genes in the ICEGM modules were also enriched in the adipocytes, smooth muscle cells, cardiac myocytes and immune cells. Comprehensive disease annotation and canonical pathway analysis indicated that immune cells, adipocytes, cardiomyocytes and smooth muscle cells played a synergistic role in cardiac and physical functions in the aged monkeys by regulation of the biological processes associated with metabolism, inflammation and atherosclerosis. In conclusion, the ICEGM provides an efficiently systematic framework for decoding the co-expression gene modules in multiple tissues. Analysis of genes in the ICEGM module yielded important insights on the cooperative role of multiple tissues in the development of diseases.
New low-flux mixed matrix membranes that offer superior removal of protein-bound toxins from human plasma
Authors: Pavlenko Denys , van Geffen Esmée , van Steenbergen Mies J. , Glorieux Griet , Vanholder Raymond , Gerritsen Karin G. F. , Stamatialis Dimitrios
Published: October 2016

Hemodialysis is a widely available and well-established treatment for patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). However, although life-sustaining, patient mortality rates are very high. Several recent studies corroborated the link between dialysis patients’ outcomes and elevated levels of protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUT) that are poorly removed by conventional hemodialysis. Therefore, new treatments are needed to improve their removal. Recently, our group showed that the combination of dialysis and adsorption on one membrane, the mixed matrix membrane (MMM), can effectively remove those toxins from human plasma. However, these first MMMs were rather large in diameter and their mass transport characteristics needed improvement before application in the clinical setting. Therefore, in this study we developed a new generation of MMMs that have a smaller diameter and optimized characteristics offering superior ability in removing the PBUT indoxyl sulfate (IS) and p-cresyl sulfate (pCS) in comparison to first generation MMMs (30 and 125% respectively), as well as, a commercial dialysis membrane (more than 100% better removal).
Dual-responsive and Multi-functional Plasmonic Hydrogel Valves and Biomimetic Architectures Formed with Hydrogel and Gold Nanocolloids
Authors: Song Ji Eun , Cho Eun Chul
Published: October 2016

We present a straightforward approach with high moldability for producing dual-responsive and multi-functional plasmonic hydrogel valves and biomimetic architectures that reversibly change volumes and colors in response to temperature and ion variations. Heating of a mixture of hybrid colloids (gold nanoparticles assembled on a hydrogel colloid) and hydrogel colloids rapidly induces (within 30 min) the formation of hydrogel architectures resembling mold shapes (cylinder, fish, butterfly). The biomimetic fish and butterfly display reversible changes in volumes and colors with variations of temperature and ionic conditions in aqueous solutions. The cylindrical plasmonic valves installed in flow tubes rapidly control water flow rate in on-off manner by responding to these stimuli. They also report these changes in terms of their colors. Therefore, the approach presented here might be helpful in developing new class of biomimetic and flow control systems where liquid conditions should be visually notified (e.g., glucose or ion concentration changes).
Forest biomass carbon stocks and variation in Tibet’s carbon-dense forests from 2001 to 2050
Authors: Sun Xiangyang , Wang Genxu , Huang Mei , Chang Ruiying , Ran Fei
Published: October 2016

Tibet’s forests, in contrast to China’s other forests, are characterized by primary forests, high carbon (C) density and less anthropogenic disturbance, and they function as an important carbon pool in China. Using the biomass C density data from 413 forest inventory sites and a spatial forest age map, we developed an allometric equation for the forest biomass C density and forest age to assess the spatial biomass C stocks and variation in Tibet’s forests from 2001 to 2050. The results indicated that the forest biomass C stock would increase from 831.1 Tg C in 2001 to 969.4 Tg C in 2050, with a net C gain of 3.6 Tg C yr−1 between 2001 and 2010 and a decrease of 1.9 Tg C yr−1 between 2040 and 2050. Carbon tends to allocate more in the roots of fir forests and less in the roots of spruce and pine forests with increasing stand age. The increase of the biomass carbon pool does not promote significant augmentation of the soil carbon pool. Our findings suggest that Tibet’s mature forests will remain a persistent C sink until 2050. However, afforestation or reforestation, especially with the larger carbon sink potential forest types, such as fir and spruce, should be carried out to maintain the high C sink capacity.
Nano-volcanic Eruption of Silver
Authors: Lin Shih-kang , Nagao Shijo , Yokoi Emi , Oh Chulmin , Zhang Hao , Liu Yu-chen , Lin Shih-guei , Suganuma Katsuaki
Published: October 2016

Silver (Ag) is one of the seven metals of antiquity and an important engineering material in the electronic, medical, and chemical industries because of its unique noble and catalytic properties. Ag thin films are extensively used in modern electronics primarily because of their oxidation-resistance. Here we report a novel phenomenon of Ag nano-volcanic eruption that is caused by interactions between Ag and oxygen (O). It involves grain boundary liquation, the ejection of transient Ag-O fluids through grain boundaries, and the decomposition of Ag-O fluids into O2 gas and suspended Ag and Ag2O clusters. Subsequent coating with re-deposited Ag-O and the de-alloying of O yield a conformal amorphous Ag coating. Patterned Ag hillock arrays and direct Ag-to-Ag bonding can be formed by the homogenous crystallization of amorphous coatings. The Ag “nano-volcanic eruption” mechanism is elaborated, shedding light on a new mechanism of hillock formation and new applications of amorphous Ag coatings.
BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism Influences Visuomotor Associative Learning and the Sensitivity to Action Observation
Authors: Taschereau-Dumouchel Vincent , Hétu Sébastien , Michon Pierre-Emmanuel , Vachon-Presseau Etienne , Massicotte Elsa , De Beaumont Louis , Fecteau Shirley , Poirier Judes , Mercier Catherine , Chagnon Yvon C. , Jackson Philip L.
Published: October 2016

Motor representations in the human mirror neuron system are tuned to respond to specific observed actions. This ability is widely believed to be influenced by genetic factors, but no study has reported a genetic variant affecting this system so far. One possibility is that genetic variants might interact with visuomotor associative learning to configure the system to respond to novel observed actions. In this perspective, we conducted a candidate gene study on the Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism, a genetic variant linked to motor learning in regions of the mirror neuron system, and tested the effect of this polymorphism on motor facilitation and visuomotor associative learning. In a single-pulse TMS study carried on 16 Met (Val/Met and Met/Met) and 16 Val/Val participants selected from a large pool of healthy volunteers, Met participants showed significantly less muscle-specific corticospinal sensitivity during action observation, as well as reduced visuomotor associative learning, compared to Val homozygotes. These results are the first evidence of a genetic variant tuning sensitivity to action observation and bring to light the importance of considering the intricate relation between genetics and associative learning in order to further understand the origin and function of the human mirror neuron system.
Volume and structural relaxation in compressed sodium borate glass
Authors: Svenson Mouritz N. , Youngman Randall E. , Yue Yuanzheng , Rzoska Sylwester J. , Bockowski Michal , Jensen Lars R. , Smedskjaer Morten M.
Published: October 2016

Packing of structural units rather than conversions between them is the main mechanism for pressure-induced densification in sodium borate glass.
Inhibition of cell proliferation and triggering of apoptosis by agrimonolide through MAP kinase (ERK and p38) pathways in human gastric cancer AGS cells
Authors: Teng Hui , Huang Qun , Chen Lei
Published: October 2016

Data from the present study showed that agrimonolide exhibited a high anti-proliferation effect against human gastric cancer AGS cells.
Uranium isotope analysis by MC-ICP-MS in sub-ng sized samples
Authors: Boulyga Sergei F. , Koepf Andreas , Konegger-Kappel Stefanie , Macsik Zsuzsanna , Stadelmann Guillaume
Published: October 2016

This study describes the multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) method for the determination of n(233U)/n(238U), n(234U)/n(238U), n(235U)/n(238U), and n(236U)/n(238U) isotope ratios in purified uranium solutions.
A disposable breath sensing tube with on-tube single-nanowire sensor array for on-site detection of exhaled breath biomarkers
Authors: Wu Chung-Hsuan , Wang Wei-Han , Hong Chien-Chong , Hwang Kuo Chu
Published: October 2016

The plastic tube with on-tube single-NW sensors demonstrates the advantages of low cost, fast response, and an easy-to-use breath-sensing procedure.
Room temperature observation of the correlation between atomic and electronic structure of graphene on Cu(110)
Authors: Chagas Thais , Cunha Thiago H. R. , Matos Matheus J. S. , dos Reis Diogo D. , Araujo Karolline A. S. , Malachias Angelo , Mazzoni Mario S. C. , Ferlauto Andre S. , Magalhaes-Paniago Rogerio
Published: October 2016

We have used atomically-resolved scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to study the interplay between the atomic and electronic structure of graphene formed on copper via chemical vapor deposition.
Extrinsic surface-enhanced Raman scattering detection of influenza A virus enhanced by two-dimensional gold@silver core–shell nanoparticle arrays
Authors: Karn-orachai Kullavadee , Sakamoto Kenji , Laocharoensuk Rawiwan , Bamrungsap Suwussa , Songsivilai Sirirurg , Dharakul Tararaj , Miki Kazushi
Published: October 2016

A surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based biosensor using a direct immunoassay platform was demonstrated for influenza A detection. The sensitivity was improved ~4 times by using a well-tuned Au@Ag 2D array instead of a flat Au film.
Self-assembling extracellular matrix proteins as materials for the condensation of silica nanostructures
Authors: Gomes Conor M. , Deravi Leila F.
Published: October 2016

A synthetic strategy is described to repurpose human extracellular matrix protein binding domains to catalyse the condensation of silica nanostructures in water for a seamlessly integrated biocomposite material.
N-Acylamino-pyridine-2,6-dione based heterocyclic dyes and their oxidative ring-degradation under alkaline conditions
Authors: Geng Jiao , Xu Dan , Zhao Xiao-Lei , Feng Ya-Nan , Qian Hui-Fen , Dai Yuan , Huang Wei
Published: October 2016

Three newN-acylamino-pyridine-2,6-dione based heterocyclic dyes in the same hydrazone form and their oxidative ring-degradation under alkaline conditions have been described, together with a two-step ring-opening and subsequent oxidative cleavage mechanism.
First-principle study for influence of an external electric field on the electronic structure and optical properties of TiO2
Authors: Zhao Cuihua , Huang Dewei , Chen Jianhua , Li Yuqiong , Du Zheng
Published: October 2016

The influence of external electric fields on the electronic structure and optical properties of TiO2 was studied using first-principle calculations.
Molecules of Congo red caught hopping between insulin fibrils: a chiroptical probe of the dye–amyloid binding dynamics
Authors: Dec Robert , Babenko Viktoria , Dzwolak Wojciech
Published: October 2016

Binding dynamics of insulin amyloid–Congo red complex were probed through a new approach based on induced circular dichroism.
La2O3 nanoparticle/polyacrylonitrile nanofibers for bacterial inactivation based on phosphate control
Authors: He Jiaojie , Wang Wei , Shi Wenxin , Cui Fuyi
Published: October 2016

La2O3 nanoparticle-doped PAN nanofiber mats were prepared by an electrospinning process.
Plasmonic nanoparticle-semiconductor composites for efficient solar water splitting
Authors: Valenti M. , Jonsson M. P. , Biskos G. , Schmidt-Ott A. , Smith W. A.
Published: October 2016

Review of plasmonic nanoparticle effects on the semiconductors' light absorption, charge transfer and energetics for efficient solar water splitting.
Epitaxial growth of two-dimensional SnSe2/MoS2 misfit heterostructures
Authors: Zhao Mei , Liu Manman , Dong Youqing , Zou Chao , Yang Keqin , Yang Yun , Zhang Lijie , Huang Shaoming
Published: October 2016

van der Waals (vdWs) heterostructures, obtained by vertically stacking two-dimensional layered materials upon each other, appear particularly promising for future atomically thin electronic and optoelectronic devices and attract a great deal of attention due to their diverse functionalities.
Robust adaptive dynamic surface control of uncertain non‐linear systems with output constraints
Authors: Zhang Zhikai , Duan Guangren , Hou Mingzhe
Published: October 2016

This study presents a novel constraints transformation‐based robust adaptive dynamic surface control (DSC) scheme for tracking control of a class of uncertain non‐linear systems with output constraints. The considered systems are in semi‐strict feedback form that contain not only parametric uncertainties, but also general non‐linear function uncertainties as well as unknown input gains. In the proposed approach, a constraints transformation technique is firstly introduced to convert the original constrained system into an equivalent one without constraints. By ensuring the stability of the transformed system, it suffices to guarantee the constraints are not transgressed. To attain this, a decoupled DSC design methodology is then developed to stabilise the transformed system and a systematic design procedure is established. Through rigorous analysis, it is shown that the proposed control scheme can achieve output tracking objective and guarantee that all the closed‐loop signals remain bounded while simultaneously preventing the prescribed output constraints from being violated. Simulation studies illustrate the efficiency and feasibility of the proposed approach.