bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macroscale patterns of synchrony identify complex relationships among spatial and temporal ecosystem drivers
Authors: Lottig Noah R. , Tan Pang‐Ning , Wagner Tyler , Cheruvelil Kendra Spence , Soranno Patricia A. , Stanley Emily H. , Scott Caren E. , Stow Craig A. , Yuan Shuai
Published: December 2017

Ecology has a rich history of studying ecosystem dynamics across time and space that has been motivated by both practical management needs and the need to develop basic ideas about pattern and process in nature. In situations in which both spatial and temporal observations are available, similarities in temporal behavior among sites (i.e., synchrony) provide a means of understanding underlying processes that create patterns over space and time. We used pattern analysis algorithms and data spanning 22–25 yr from 601 lakes to ask three questions: What are the temporal patterns of lake water clarity at sub‐continental scales? What are the spatial patterns (i.e., geography) of synchrony for lake water clarity? And, what are the drivers of spatial and temporal patterns in lake water clarity? We found that the synchrony of water clarity among lakes is not spatially structured at sub‐continental scales. Our results also provide strong evidence that the drivers related to spatial patterns in water clarity are not related to the temporal patterns of water clarity. This analysis of long‐term patterns of water clarity and possible drivers contributes to understanding of broad‐scale spatial patterns in the geography of synchrony and complex relationships between spatial and temporal patterns across ecosystems.
Structural Evolution and Chemical Bonding of Diniobium Boride Clusters Nb2Bx–/0 (x = 1–6): Hexagonal‐Bipyramidal Nb2B6–/0 Species
Authors: Wang Bin , Xie Lu , Liu Xiu‐Juan , Chen Wen‐Jie , Zhang Yong‐Fan , Huang Xin
Published: December 2017

Theoretical calculations are performed to probe the geometric and electronic properties of diniobium boride clusters, Nb2Bx–/0 (x = 1–6). Generalized Koopmans' theorem is utilized to predict vertical detachment energies (VDEs) and to simulate the photoelectron spectra (PES). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are carried out at the BP86 level to hunt for the most stable structures of the abovementioned species. A fascinating structural evolution is observed in Nb2Bx– (x = 1–6) clusters, which shows the equatorial boron chain extending around the Nb–Nb dimer, with increasing x, and an enclosed planar B6 ring emerges in the Nb2B6– species. Moreover, the neutral species Nb2Bx (x = 1–6) shares a similar structural evolution with the anionic species. The B6 molecular ring in bipyramidal Nb2B6–/0 species is a promising building block, which may be expected to provide significant insights into the design of new borometallic complexes.
Inhibition of Ion Transport through Gramicidin A Channels by the Addition of Local Anesthetic Procaine
Authors: Yamaguchi Takuya , Shirai Osamu , Kitazumi Yuki , Kano Kenji
Published: December 2017

The blocking effects of the cationic procaine, a typical local anesthetic (LA), on ion transport through gramicidin A (gA) channels between two aqueous phases (W1 and W2) were electrochemically elucidated. Although the gA channels promoted the permeation of monovalent cations, especially Cs+, the addition of procaine to W1 decreased the permeation of Cs+ through these channels from W1 to W2. This can be explained based on the following mechanism. Hydrophobic cationic procaine tends to approach the pore of a gA channel. Since it is too large to enter the pore, it cannot pass through the channel. Thus, cationic procaine inhibits the permeation of Cs+ from W1 to W2 by competing with Cs+ for access to the entrances of the gA channels. It is postulated that the decrease in the apparent activity of Cs+ caused by this competition prevents ion transport through the gA channels.
Kinetic analysis of cattle manure pyrolysis process with a novel two‐step method: Pseudo‐component model coupled with multipeak gaussian fitting
Authors: Xin Ya , Cao Hongliang , Yuan Qiaoxia , Wang Dianlong , Liu Yulong
Published: December 2017

A novel two‐step method is proposed to conduct the pseudo‐component model for cattle manure pyrolysis process. The weight coefficient of pseudo‐components firstly are identified accurately by Gaussian multipeak fitting method based on the DTG data of cattle manure, and then the kinetic parameters for each pseudo‐component including reaction order, activation energies (Ei) and pre‐exponential factor (Ai), are obtained by the reaction‐order mechanism function and Coats‐Redfern method. The results showed that the decomposition process of cattle manure should be characterized by five pseudo‐components (extractives, hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, and volatilizable carbonaceous materials). The corresponding reaction orders were 1.6, 1.8, 1.9, 1.3, and 1.8, respectively. The Ei were ranged from 42.54 to 527.02 kJ mol−1 for five pseudo‐components. The pseudo‐component model coupled with multipeak Gaussian fitting could describe the kinetic process of cattle manure decomposition very well, and provide useful data for the design of a thermal decomposition processing system and the kinetic analysis of pyrolysis process of other solid wastes. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1618–1625, 2018
Clay minerals as palaeoclimatic indicators in the Pliocene Productive Series, western Southern Caspian Basin
Authors: Abdullayev Elshan , Leroy Suzanne A. G.
Published: December 2017

Clay minerals are useful tools for reconstructing palaeoclimatic history. The clay mineral composition and total organic carbon (TOC) of the Pliocene Productive Series from the western South Caspian Basin was used to reconstruct palaeoclimate on the adjacent land, which still remains a data‐poor area. Variations of the smectite and illite contents in the Lower Division of the Productive Series suggest that two different climatic conditions alternated on the Russian Platform. High amount of illite combined with low amount of smectite and low amount of TOC indicate arid climatic condition. In contrast, high amount of smectite and TOC with low amount of illite suggest humid climatic condition on the Russian Platform. The Upper Division of the Productive Series in the Absheron Peninsula is characterized by high amount of illite, which indicates arid climatic conditions. Similarly, variable smectite and illite contents in the Upper Division of the Productive Series in the South Absheron Offshore Zone imply a climate alternating between aridity and humidity in the Greater Caucasus. This investigation contributes to the knowledge of the Pliocene at the boundary between Europe and Asia, in a continental setting and at a key period of climatic changes, such as the mid‐Pliocene warm period and the beginning of the Northern Hemisphere glacial–interglacial cycles.
Efficacy and tolerability of antidepressants in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Mills Kelly A. , Greene M. Claire , Dezube Rebecca , Goodson Carrie , Karmarkar Taruja , Pontone Gregory M.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To systematically review and analyze the efficacy and tolerability of different antidepressant pharmacologic treatments for depressive symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD)

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane database (CENTRAL), clinicaltrials.gov, and bibliographies for randomized controlled trials investigating the efficacy of antidepressant medications versus a non‐treatment, placebo, or active treatment groups for depressive symptoms in PD. Twenty of 3191 retrieved studies (1893 patients) were included, but not all could be meta‐analyzed. We used a random‐effects model meta‐analysis to compare depression scores between an active drug and placebo or control group then used a network meta‐analysis to compare the effectiveness of different antidepressant classes. The primary outcome was the efficacy of different classes of antidepressant medications in PD patients with depressive symptoms, measured by standardized mean difference (SMD) in depression score from baseline compared with control.

Results

Pairwise meta‐analysis suggested that type B‐selective monoamine oxidase inhibitors (SMD = −1.28, CI = −1.68, −0.88), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SMD = −0.49, CI = −0.93, −0.05), and tricyclics (SMD = −0.83, CI = −1.53, −0.13) are effective antidepressants in PD. Network meta‐analysis showed that monoamine oxidase inhibitors had the largest effect on depression in PD (SMD (vs selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) = −0.78, CI = −1.55, −0.01), but these might not be considered traditional antidepressants given their type B selectivity.

Conclusions

Although limited by few data, this review suggests that multiple antidepressant classes are potentially efficacious in the treatment of depression in PD, but that further comparative efficacy and tolerability research is needed.
Intrinsic functional connectivity of the central extended amygdala
Authors: Tillman Rachael M. , Stockbridge Melissa D. , Nacewicz Brendon M. , Torrisi Salvatore , Fox Andrew S. , Smith Jason F. , Shackman Alexander J.
Published: December 2017

The central extended amygdala (EAc)—including the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST) and central nucleus of the amygdala (Ce)—plays a critical role in triggering fear and anxiety and is implicated in the development of a range of debilitating neuropsychiatric disorders. Although it is widely believed that these disorders reflect the coordinated activity of distributed neural circuits, the functional architecture of the EAc network and the degree to which the BST and the Ce show distinct patterns of functional connectivity is unclear. Here, we used a novel combination of imaging approaches to trace the connectivity of the BST and the Ce in 130 healthy, racially diverse, community‐dwelling adults. Multiband imaging, high‐precision registration techniques, and spatially unsmoothed data maximized anatomical specificity. Using newly developed seed regions, whole‐brain regression analyses revealed robust functional connectivity between the BST and Ce via the sublenticular extended amygdala, the ribbon of subcortical gray matter encompassing the ventral amygdalofugal pathway. Both regions displayed coupling with the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), midcingulate cortex (MCC), insula, and anterior hippocampus. The BST showed stronger connectivity with the thalamus, striatum, periaqueductal gray, and several prefrontal territories. The only regions showing stronger functional connectivity with the Ce were neighboring regions of the dorsal amygdala, amygdalohippocampal area, and anterior hippocampus. These observations provide a baseline against which to compare a range of special populations, inform our understanding of the role of the EAc in normal and pathological fear and anxiety, and showcase image registration techniques that are likely to be useful for researchers working with “deidentified” neuroimaging data.
Leptin: A new therapeutic target for treatment of diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rehman Kanwal , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Alina Zunaira
Published: December 2017

Leptin is an endogenous protein having 167 amino acids and is derived from adipocytes. It has tertiary structure that resembles with that of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines family. The fundamental role of leptin is to maintain the energy homeostasis with the aid of its counter hormone called ghrelin, known as the “hunger hormone.” Small quantities of leptin are also present in various tissues like ovary, placenta, pituitary gland, mammary gland, skeletal muscle, stomach, and lymphoid tissue. Expression of leptin is strongly associated with various inflammatory responses and immune system, and plays crucial role in the pathophysiology of obesity and development of diabetes mellitus (DM) and insulin resistance. The metabolic action of leptin is equally important as that of insulin in the pathophysiology of obesity and DM. Thereby, this review article tends to discuss the diverse and complicated role of leptin in the pathogenesis of DM. Furthermore, this article will highlight the signifying role of leptin as a therapeutic target by indicating the targeted treatment of DM through the appropriate understanding of advanced therapeutic approaches using leptin as a treatment strategy for DM.
AML1/ETO trans‐activates c‐KIT expression through the long range interaction between promoter and intronic enhancer
Authors: Tian Ying , Wang Genjie , Hu Qingzhu , Xiao Xichun , Chen Shuxia
Published: December 2017

The AML1/ETO onco‐fusion protein is crucial for the genesis of t(8;21) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is well documented as a transcriptional repressor through dominant‐negative effect. However, little is known about the transactivation mechanism of AML1/ETO. Through large cohort of patient's expression level data analysis and a series of experimental validation, we report here that AML1/ETO transactivates c‐KIT expression through directly binding to and mediating the long‐range interaction between the promoter and intronic enhancer regions of c‐KIT. Gene expression analyses verify that c‐KIT expression is significantly high in t(8;21) AML. Further ChIP‐seq analysis and motif scanning identify two regulatory regions located in the promoter and intronic enhancer region of c‐KIT, respectively. Both regions are enriched by co‐factors of AML1/ETO, such as AML1, CEBPe, c‐Jun, and c‐Fos. Further luciferase reporter assays show that AML1/ETO trans‐activates c‐KIT promoter activity through directly recognizing the AML1 motif and the co‐existence of co‐factors. The induction of c‐KIT promoter activity is reinforced with the existence of intronic enhancer region. Furthermore, ChIP‐3C‐qPCR assays verify that AML1/ETO mediates the formation of DNA‐looping between the c‐KIT promoter and intronic enhancer region through the long‐range interaction. Collectively, our data uncover a novel transcriptional activity mechanism of AML1/ETO and enrich our knowledge of the onco‐fusion protein mediated transcription regulation.
miR‐221 negatively regulates inflammation and insulin sensitivity in white adipose tissue by repression of sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1)
Authors: Peng Jie , Zhou Yuanfei , Deng Zhao , Zhang Hong , Wu Yinghui , Song Tongxing , Yang Yang , Wei Hongkui , Peng Jian
Published: December 2017

It is well known that obesity‐induced white adipose tissue inflammation is an important reason for insulin‐resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1) is an important regulator of inflammtion response pathways in white adipose tissue. Here, we found that miR‐221 negatively regulated SIRT1 in white adipose tissue during inflammation and HFD‐induced obesity. MiR‐221 is a putative oncogene which has been found overexpressed in a number of human tumors. Recently, it has also found that miR‐221 was increased in obese adipose tissue and may be involved in inflammation and insulin‐resistance. However the specific mechanism remains to be elucidated. In our present study, we found that overexpression of miR‐221 decreased the protein abundance of SIRT1 and caused inflammation and insulin‐resistance in differentiated 3T3‐L1 cells. Conversely, miR‐221 inhibition increased the protein levels, ameliorated inflammation, and improved insulin sensitivity. Moreover, inhibition of SIRT1 by EX527 significantly diminished the downregulation of the inflammation and insulin‐resistance levels induced by the miR‐221 inhibitor. In conclusion, our data suggest that miR‐221 promotes white adipose tissue inflammation and decreases insulin sensitivity in obesity, at least in part, through suppressing SIRT1.
Gender differences in the processes linking public stigma and self‐disclosure among college students with mental illness
Authors: Brown Robyn Lewis , Moloney Mairead Eastin , Brown Jordan
Published: December 2017

This study investigated predictors of self‐disclosure among college students with mental illness. Participants were 1,393 current college students with a mental illness at 5 universities. Moderated mediation tests were used to analyze the data. Findings of the analysis reveal that public stigma is associated with mental illness disclosure among college students in part because it is associated with an increased perceived stress burden, particularly among men. Implications for future research and program development are discussed, with an emphasis on how public stigma and gender ideologies inform students’ decisions to acknowledge and address a mental health problem.
Conductive Tough Hydrogel for Bioapplications
Authors: Javadi Mohammad , Gu Qi , Naficy Sina , Farajikhah Syamak , Crook Jeremy M. , Wallace Gordon G. , Beirne Stephen , Moulton Simon E.
Published: December 2017

Biocompatible conductive tough hydrogels represent a new class of advanced materials combining the properties of tough hydrogels and biocompatible conductors. Here, a simple method, to achieve a self‐assembled tough elastomeric composite structure that is biocompatible, conductive, and with high flexibility, is reported. The hydrogel comprises polyether‐based liner polyurethane (PU), poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS), and liquid crystal graphene oxide (LCGO). The polyurethane hybrid composite (PUHC) containing the PEDOT:PSS, LCGO, and PU has a higher electrical conductivity (10×), tensile modulus (>1.6×), and yield strength (>1.56×) compared to respective control samples. Furthermore, the PUHC is biocompatible and can support human neural stem cell (NSC) growth and differentiation to neurons and supporting neuroglia. Moreover, the stimulation of PUHC enhances NSC differentiation with enhanced neuritogenesis compared to unstimulated cultures. A model describing the synergistic effects of the PUHC components and their influence on the uniformity, biocompatibility, and electromechanical properties of the hydrogel is presented.
Measured and Monte Carlo simulated surface dose reduction for superficial X‐rays incident on tissue with underlying air or bone
Authors: Baines John , Zawlodzka Sylwia , Markwell Tim , Chan Millicent
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Measurement of surface dose reduction effects for superficial x‐rays incident on tissue with underlying air or bone and comparison with Monte Carlo simulations of such effects. Further to investigate the correlation between surface dose reduction and changes in Compton backscatter spectra with tissue‐bone separation.

Methods

An Advanced Markus chamber with entrance window facing downstream on the surface of a solid water phantom was used to investigate changes in surface dose with an underlying air or bone interface located at various depths below the surface.

Chamber readings were obtained for interface depths ranging from 1 to 100 mm using the 50 kV, 100 kV and 150 kV beams of an Xstrahl 150 x‐ray unit, with field diameters (ϕ) = 2.5 cm and 5 cm. For each beam quality and field size the dose correction factor, DCF(t), namely the ratio of measured dose (t) to dose (t = 100 mm) was determined. Monte Carlo simulations of DCF(t) for air and bone interfaces in tissue are used to validate corresponding measured data. For a given beam and field size, the difference between simulated spectra with an air or bone interface at t = 3 mm was used to determine the Compton backscatter from bone at the surface.

Results

For air, DCF(t < 40 mm) is less than unity and for a given t DCF(t) decreases as beam energy increases from 50 kV to 150 kV. Conversely for bone DCF(t < 40 mm) increases for a given t with increasing beam energy. In particular for t = 1 mm, ϕ = 5 cm, DCF for air(bone) are 0.90(0.92) and 0.86(0.96) for 50 kV and 150 kV, respectively. For the same tube potentials corresponding factors, ϕ = 2.5 cm, for air(bone) are 0.94(0.96) and 0.92(0.99). Calculated DCF(t) based on Monte Carlo simulations are consistent with experimental observations to within 2%. Monte Carlo simulations of x‐ray spectra demonstrate the presence of Compton backscatter from underlying bone in tissue. With bone at 3 mm depth calculated backscatter spectra at the tissue surface suggest that surface dose is influenced by the proximity of bone and that this effect depends on beam quality.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates the feasibility of using an Advanced Markus chamber with entrance window facing downstream to investigate surface dose reduction with underlying air or bone in tissue. As the field size decreases and beam quality increases surface dose with underlying bone tends to full backscatter values even though tissue thicknesses are below those normally associated with full backscatter. Conversely with underlying bone close to the surface dose will increasingly fall below full backscatter values as the beam energy is reduced and field size is increased.
MRI change metrics of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy: Stir and T1
Authors: Ferguson Mark R. , Poliachik Sandra L. , Budech Christopher B. , Gove Nancy E. , Carter Gregory T. , Wang Leo H. , Miller Daniel G. , Shaw Dennis W.W. , Friedman Seth D.
Published: December 2017

Introduction: MRI evaluation in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) demonstrates fatty replacement and inflammation/edema in muscle. Our previous work demonstrated short T1 inversion recovery (STIR)‐hyperintense (STIR+) signal in muscle 2 years before fatty replacement. We evaluated leg muscle STIR changes and fatty replacement within 14 months. Methods: FSHD subjects received 2 MRI scans of thigh and calf over a 6.9‐ to 13.8‐month interval. Quality of life measures were collected. One Radiologist rated muscle changes on a semi‐quantitative scale. Results: Fifteen subjects completed longitudinal imaging. Four STIR + muscles and 3 STIR‐normal (STIR−) muscles were rated as progressing to fatty tissue over the study period. Discussion: STIR + muscles with confluent regions of fat at baseline increased more in fat, while STIR− muscles had increases in septal‐fat over the study period. These changes may reflect two phases of FSHD, demonstrating MRI sensitivity is weighted toward gross pathological phases of the disease. Muscle Nerve 57: 905–912, 2018
Theoretical design on a new double functional device of 2,2′‐bipyridine‐embedded N‐(9‐pyrenyl methyl)aza‐15‐crown‐5
Authors: Li Zhongliang , Li Weiwei , Liu Fan , Wang Xueye
Published: December 2017

Theoretical design on a new molecular switch and fluorescent chemosensor double functional device of aza‐crown ether (2,2′‐dipyridine‐embedded N‐(9‐anthraceneyl(pyrenyl)methyl)aza‐15‐crown‐5) was explored. The interactions between ligands and a series of alkaline earth metal cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+) were investigated. The fully optimized geometry structures of the free ligands (L1, L2) and their metal cation complexes (L1/M2+, L2/M2+) were calculated with the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) method. The natural bond orbital analysis, which is based on optimized geometric structures, was used to explore the interaction of L1/M2+, L2/M2+ molecules. The absorption spectra of L1, L2, L1/M2+, and L2/M2+, and their excited states were studied by time‐dependent density functional theory. A new type molecular device L2(2,2′‐dipyridine‐embedded N‐(9‐pyrenyl methyl)aza‐15‐crown‐5) is designed, which not only has the selectivity for Sr2+, and construct allosteric switch, but also has fluorescent sensor performance.
Development of METAL‐ACTIVE SITE and ZINCCLUSTER tool to predict active site pockets
Authors: Ajitha M. , Sundar K. , Arul Mugilan S. , Arumugam S.
Published: December 2017

The advent of whole genome sequencing leads to increasing number of proteins with known amino acid sequences. Despite many efforts, the number of proteins with resolved three dimensional structures is still low. One of the challenging tasks the structural biologists face is the prediction of the interaction of metal ion with any protein for which the structure is unknown. Based on the information available in Protein Data Bank, a site (METALACTIVE INTERACTION) has been generated which displays information for significant high preferential and low‐preferential combination of endogenous ligands for 49 metal ions. User can also gain information about the residues present in the first and second coordination sphere as it plays a major role in maintaining the structure and function of metalloproteins in biological system. In this paper, a novel computational tool (ZINCCLUSTER) is developed, which can predict the zinc metal binding sites of proteins even if only the primary sequence is known. The purpose of this tool is to predict the active site cluster of an uncharacterized protein based on its primary sequence or a 3D structure. The tool can predict amino acids interacting with a metal or vice versa. This tool is based on the occurrence of significant triplets and it is tested to have higher prediction accuracy when compared to that of other available techniques.
Preparation of tri(ethylene glycol) grafted core‐shell type polymer support for solid‐phase peptide synthesis
Authors: Kim Jaehi , Kim Seojung , Shin Dong‐Sik , Lee Yoon‐Sik
Published: December 2017

A core‐shell type polymer support for solid‐phase peptide synthesis has been developed for high coupling efficiency of peptides and versatile applications such as on‐bead bioassays. Although various kinds of polymer supports have been developed, they have their own drawbacks including poor accessibility of reagents and incompatibility in aqueous solution. In this paper, we prepared hydrophilic tri(ethylene glycol) (TEG) grafted core‐shell type polymer supports (TEG SURE) for efficient solid‐phase peptide synthesis and on‐bead bioassays. TEG SURE was prepared by grafting TEG derivative on the surface of AM PS resin via biphasic diffusion control method and subsequent acetylation of amine groups which are located at the core region of AM PS resin. The performance of TEG SURE was evaluated by synthesizing several peptides. Three points can be highlighted: (1) easy control of loading level of TEG, (2) improved efficiency of peptide synthesis compared with the conventional resins, and (3) applicability of on‐bead bioassays.
The effect of green tea ointment on episiotomy pain and wound healing in primiparous women: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Shahrahmani Hadis , Kariman Nourossadat , Jannesari Sharareh , Rafieian‐Kopaei Mahmoud , Mirzaei Moghadameh , Ghalandari Sahar , Shahrahmani Nasim , Mardani Gashtasb
Published: December 2017

The delayed healing of episiotomy wound and its associated pain is a major problem in obstetrics. Because green tea has analgesic and wound‐healing properties, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of green tea ointment on episiotomy pain and wound‐healing. The green tea extract was also standardized by measuring its Phenolic and flavonoid compounds, antioxidant activity, and one of its active components, that is, Epigallocatechin gallate. The present clinical trial was conducted on 99 primiparous women visiting Afzalipour Hospital in Kerman in 2015. The subjects were randomly divided into 3 groups, including a green tea ointment group, a placebo ointment group, and a routine care group. The 2 ointment groups smeared 2 cm of the green tea or placebo ointments onto their sutured area twice daily for a total of 10 days. The severity of pain was assessed in the subjects using the visual pain scale and wound‐healing using the Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation (REEDA) scale before the intervention and on the 5th and 10th days after delivery. To standardize the extract, Epigallocatechin gallate was measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Phenolic and flavonoid compounds, as well as antioxidant activity of the extract were also determined by spectrometry methods. Before the intervention, no significant differences were observed between the 3 groups in terms of their personal and obstetric details (p > .05), the severity of pain (p = .118), and the REEDA score (p = .212). On the 5th and 10th days after delivery, the severity of pain was significantly lower in the green tea group than in the other 2 groups (p < .0001). The mean REEDA score on the 5th and 10th days showed a better and faster healing in the green tea group compared to the other 2 groups (p < .0001). Total content of phenolic and flavonoids contents of green tea were 74.2 mg/g Gallic acid equivalent and 16.3 mg/g Rutin equivalent, respectively, and its antioxidant capacity was 46% of b‐carotene. Green tea ointment appears to be effective in relieving episiotomy pain and improving wound‐healing in this study. Further studies are recommended to be conducted on the effectiveness and safety of the different doses of green tea ointment.
Remote sampling mass spectrometry for dry samples: Sheath‐flow probe electrospray ionization (PESI) using a gel‐loading tip inserted with an acupuncture needle
Authors: Usmanov Dilshadbek T. , Ashurov Khatam B. , Ninomiya Satoshi , Hiraoka Kenzo , Wada Hiroshi , Nakano Hiroshi , Matsumura Masaya , Sanada‐Morimura Sachiyo , Nonami Hiroshi
Published: December 2017

Rationale

Probe electrospray ionization (PESI) is only applicable to liquid or wet samples. In this study, a sheath‐flow PESI method for remote sampling mass spectrometry that can be applied to dry samples was developed.

Methods

An acupuncture needle (0.12 mm outer diameter, 700 nm tip diameter) was inserted into a gel‐loading tip with a 0.1 mm protrusion out of the tip. Analytes were extracted by filling the latter tip with solvent and softly touching the sample surface for a short time (<1 s). A high voltage was applied to the acupuncture needle, and mass spectra of analytes were obtained by self‐aspirating electrospray.

Results

Dry samples, such as lines of ballpoint pen ink on paper, pharmaceutical tablets, instant coffee, brown rice, and narcotics, gave strong ion signals. The sample carryover was negligible. The sequential electrospray was observed to be similar to conventional PESI. The limits of detection (LODs) for morphine and rhodamine B were found to be of the order of picograms.

Conclusions

Because of its simplicity and versatility, sheath‐flow PESI is a promising technique for on‐site and nondestructive profile analysis of dry samples with bulky and complicated shapes, with a spatial resolution of ~0.3 mm.
The case of extreme hydrologic drought downstream from reservoirs in Quebec (Canada): The intermittent flow
Authors: Azouaoui O. , Assani A. A.
Published: December 2017

Intermittent flow is a hydrological phenomenon observed at all latitudes. This phenomenon is characterized by a complete or partial interruption of flow in time and/or space in channels. In Quebec, even though the climate is humid, intermittent flow occurs downstream from headwater reservoirs. These reservoirs store water during spring and summer (from April to September) and release it in winter to supply hydroelectric power plants located downstream. During the water storage period, intermittent flow is common (discharges falling to <1 L/s/km2). The goal of the study is to analyse the characteristics (magnitude, frequency, and duration) of this flow downstream from 3 reservoirs built in the Saint‐Maurice River watershed, during the period from 1930 to 2010. Downstream, the contribution (magnitude) of intermittent flow to total altered flow is less than 2%. Intermittent flow frequency ranges from 24 to 65 days per year downstream from the 3 reservoirs. As far as duration is concerned, intermittent flow persists on average from 40 to 128 consecutive days. Canonical correlation analysis revealed that the frequency of intermittent flow is correlated with the North Atlantic Oscillation and its magnitude and negatively correlated with the Southern Oscillation.
Joint modeling of multiple ordinal adherence outcomes via generalized estimating equations with flexible correlation structure
Authors: Jiang Zhen , Liu Yimeng , Wahed Abdus S. , Molenberghs Geert
Published: December 2017

Adherence to medication is critical in achieving effectiveness of many treatments. Factors that influence adherence behavior have been the subject of many clinical studies. Analyzing adherence is complicated because it is often measured on multiple drugs over a period, resulting in a multivariate longitudinal outcome. This paper is motivated by the Viral Resistance to Antiviral Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis C study, where adherence is measured on two drugs as a bivariate ordinal longitudinal outcome. To analyze such outcome, we propose a joint model assuming the multivariate ordinal outcome arose from a partitioned latent multivariate normal process. We also provide a flexible multilevel association structure covering both between and within outcome correlation. In simulation studies, we show that the joint model provides unbiased estimators for regression parameters, which are more efficient than those obtained through fitting separate model for each outcome. The joint method also yields unbiased estimators for the correlation parameters when the correlation structure is correctly specified. Finally, we analyze the Viral Resistance to Antiviral Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis C adherence data and discuss the findings.
Reversible Cu4O3 Phase Formation in CuO Nanoplate Anodes for High Capacity and High Coulombic Efficiency
Authors: Radhakrishnan Arya , Gangaja Binitha , Nair Shantikumar , Santhanagopalan Dhamodaran
Published: December 2017

Conversion materials with high specific capacity are of interest to improve energy density of Li‐ion batteries. Here, we present results concerning hydrothermally synthesized CuO nanoplates that exhibit high specific capacity of 800 and 698 mAh/g at C/2 and 1C rates respectively and 180 mAh/g at a high rate of 30C. The electrodes exhibit high Coulombic efficiencies of about 66% and 60% at C/2 and 1C rate respectively, these are high efficiency values compared to the ones reported in the literature at respective rates. To understand the high performance, ex situ x‐ray diffraction at different states of first discharge/charge is utilized that shine light on the lithiation/delithiation pathways of the CuO nanoplates. Lithiation proceeds through multiple phase transition CuO → Cu4O3 → Cu2O → Cu and it was found that Cu4O3 is reversible at the end of first charge. Cu and residual Cu2O was observed at the end of lithiation along with Li2O and Li2O2 phases. At the end of first charge, Cu4O3 phase along with CuO was observed as a major end‐product with relatively minor concentrations of Cu2O. Cu4O3 as a major constituent observed in composite electrode seems to be the key information that can explain good reversibility and high Coulombic efficiency reported in the present work.
Summary and Recommendations
Authors: Theall Michael , Keller John M.
Published: December 2017

This brief chapter outlines themes and ideas drawn from this issue.
Hybrid Method Based on Information Gain and Support Vector Machine for Gene Selection in Cancer Classification
Authors: Gao Lingyun , Ye Mingquan , Lu Xiaojie , Huang Daobin
Published: December 2017

It remains a great challenge to achieve sufficient cancer classification accuracy with the entire set of genes, due to the high dimensions, small sample size, and big noise of gene expression data. We thus proposed a hybrid gene selection method, Information Gain-Support Vector Machine (IG-SVM) in this study. IG was initially employed to filter irrelevant and redundant genes. Then, further removal of redundant genes was performed using SVM to eliminate the noise in the datasets more effectively. Finally, the informative genes selected by IG-SVM served as the input for the LIBSVM classifier. Compared to other related algorithms, IG-SVM showed the highest classification accuracy and superior performance as evaluated using five cancer gene expression datasets based on a few selected genes. As an example, IG-SVM achieved a classification accuracy of 90.32% for colon cancer, which is difficult to be accurately classified, only based on three genes including CSRP1, MYL9, and GUCA2B.
Understanding evolution of vortex rings in viscous fluids
Authors: Tinaikar Aashay , Advaith S. , Basu S.
Published: December 2017

The evolution of vortex rings in isodensity and isoviscosity fluid has been studied analytically using a novel mathematical model. The model predicts the spatiotemporal variation in peak vorticity, circulation, vortex size and spacing based on instantaneous vortex parameters. This proposed model is quantitatively verified using experimental measurements. Experiments are conducted using high-speed particle image velocimetry (PIV) and laser induced fluorescence (LIF) techniques. Non-buoyant vortex rings are generated from a nozzle using a constant hydrostatic pressure tank. The vortex Reynolds number based on circulation $(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E4}/\unicode[STIX]{x1D708})$ is varied in the range 100–1500 to account for a large range of operating conditions. Experimental results show good agreement with theoretical predictions. However, it is observed that neither Saffman’s thin-core model nor the thick-core equations could correctly explain vortex evolution for all initial conditions. Therefore, a transitional theory is framed using force balance equations which seamlessly integrate short- and long-time asymptotic theories. It is found that the parameter $A=(a/\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E})^{2}$, where $a$ is the vortex half-spacing and $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}$ denotes the standard deviation of the Gaussian vorticity profile, governs the regime of vortex evolution. For higher values of $A$, evolution follows short-time behaviour, while for $A=O(1)$, long-time behaviour is prominent. Using this theory, many reported anomalous observations have been explained.
Rapid regression of large cardiac rhabdomyomas in neonates after sirolimus therapy
Authors: Weiland M. David , Bonello Kristin , Hill Kevin D.
Published: December 2017

Cardiac rhabdomyomas are the most common tumours in children and are typically seen in association with the tuberous sclerosis complex. Although benign and often associated with spontaneous regression, in rare circumstances surgical resection is indicated to relieve obstruction or other mass-related effects. Recent clinical trials have demonstrated the benefits of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors for the treatment of other tumour sub-types associated with tuberous sclerosis. Here we report rapid regression of several massive cardiac rhadomyomas in two neonates with the use of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor sirolimus.
Thinness in young schoolchildren in Serbia: another case of the double burden of malnutrition?
Authors: Djordjic Visnja , Jorga Jagoda , Radisavljevic Snezana , Milanovic Ivana , Bozic Predrag , Ostojic Sergej M
Published: December 2017

Objective

Thinness is rarely highlighted or regularly monitored among children in developed countries although it may be rather frequent and pose a significant risk to children’s health. We aimed to describe the prevalence of mild, moderate and severe thinness among young Serbian schoolchildren.

Design

Cross-sectional study of schoolchildren aged 6–9 years. Children were assessed for weight, height and BMI as part of the WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative in Serbia. Thinness grades were defined as gender- and age-specific cut-offs for BMI according to the International Obesity Task Force criteria.

Setting

Serbia, September to November 2015.

Subjects

Students (n 4861) in grades 2 and 3 (6–9 years, 2397 girls).

Results

Overall prevalence of thinness in Serbian schoolchildren was 9·6 %. Mild thinness was clearly the largest category with a prevalence of 7·6 %, moderate thinness was present in 1·7 % of children and severe thinness was found in 0·3 % of children. OR indicated a significant risk of being thin for girls (1·44 times higher compared with boys) and children attending schools with no health-focused educational programme (1·57 times more likely to be thin than peers enrolled in schools with such programmes). In addition, OR for thinness tended to be 1·23 times higher in children living in an economically disadvantaged region of Serbia (P=0·06).

Conclusions

A rather high prevalence of thinness highlights this malnutrition disorder as an emerging health issue that should trigger public health policies to tackle thinness, especially in girls of young age and children living in economically disadvantaged areas.
Hippocampal-prefrontal theta-gamma coupling during performance of a spatial working memory task
Authors: Tamura Makoto , Spellman Timothy J. , Rosen Andrew M. , Gogos Joseph A. , Gordon Joshua A.
Published: December 2017

Cross-frequency coupling supports the organization of brain rhythms and is present during a range of cognitive functions. However, little is known about whether and how long-range cross-frequency coupling across distant brain regions subserves working memory. Here we report that theta–slow gamma coupling between the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is augmented in a genetic mouse model of cognitive dysfunction. This increased cross-frequency coupling is observed specifically when the mice successfully perform a spatial working memory task. In wild-type mice, increasing task difficulty by introducing a long delay or by optogenetically interfering with encoding, also increases theta–gamma coupling during correct trials. Finally, epochs of high hippocampal theta–prefrontal slow gamma coupling are associated with increased synchronization of neurons within the mPFC. These findings suggest that enhancement of theta–slow gamma coupling reflects a compensatory mechanism to maintain spatial working memory performance in the setting of increased difficulty.
Revealing chiral cell motility by 3D Riesz transform-differential interference contrast microscopy and computational kinematic analysis
Authors: Tamada Atsushi , Igarashi Michihiro
Published: December 2017

Left–right asymmetry is a fundamental feature of body plans, but its formation mechanisms and roles in functional lateralization remain unclear. Accumulating evidence suggests that left–right asymmetry originates in the cellular chirality. However, cell chirality has not yet been quantitatively investigated, mainly due to the absence of appropriate methods. Here we combine 3D Riesz transform-differential interference contrast (RT-DIC) microscopy and computational kinematic analysis to characterize chiral cellular morphology and motility. We reveal that filopodia of neuronal growth cones exhibit 3D left-helical motion with retraction and right-screw rotation. We next apply the methods to amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum and discover right-handed clockwise cell migration on a 2D substrate and right-screw rotation of subcellular protrusions along the radial axis in a 3D substrate. Thus, RT-DIC microscopy and the computational kinematic analysis are useful and versatile tools to reveal the mechanisms of left–right asymmetry formation and the emergence of lateralized functions.
A circular white-light flare with impulsive and gradual white-light kernels
Authors: Hao Q. , Yang K. , Cheng X. , Guo Y. , Fang C. , Ding M. D. , Chen P. F. , Li Z.
Published: December 2017

White-light flares are the flares with emissions visible in the optical continuum. They are thought to be rare and pose the most stringent requirements in energy transport and heating in the lower atmosphere. Here we present a nearly circular white-light flare on 10 March 2015 that was well observed by the Optical and Near-infrared Solar Eruption Tracer and Solar Dynamics Observatory. In this flare, there appear simultaneously both impulsive and gradual white-light kernels. The generally accepted thick-target model would be responsible for the impulsive kernels but not sufficient to interpret the gradual kernels. Some other mechanisms including soft X-ray backwarming or downward-propagating Alfvén waves, acting jointly with electron beam bombardment, provide a possible interpretation. However, the origin of this kind of white-light kernel is still an open question that induces more observations and researches in the future to decipher it.
Hyperstretching DNA
Authors: Schakenraad Koen , Biebricher Andreas S. , Sebregts Maarten , ten Bensel Brian , Peterman Erwin J. G. , Wuite Gijs J. L. , Heller Iddo , Storm Cornelis , van der Schoot Paul
Published: December 2017

The three-dimensional structure of DNA is highly susceptible to changes by mechanical and biochemical cues in vivo and in vitro. In particular, large increases in base pair spacing compared to regular B-DNA are effected by mechanical (over)stretching and by intercalation of compounds that are widely used in biophysical/chemical assays and drug treatments. We present single-molecule experiments and a three-state statistical mechanical model that provide a quantitative understanding of the interplay between B-DNA, overstretched DNA and intercalated DNA. The predictions of this model include a hitherto unconfirmed hyperstretched state, twice the length of B-DNA. Our force-fluorescence experiments confirm this hyperstretched state and reveal its sequence dependence. These results pin down the physical principles that govern DNA mechanics under the influence of tension and biochemical reactions. A predictive understanding of the possibilities and limitations of DNA extension can guide refined exploitation of DNA in, e.g., programmable soft materials and DNA origami applications.
Identification of new genes associated to senescent and tumorigenic phenotypes in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Medeiros Tavares Marques Joana Cristina , Cornélio Déborah Afonso , Nogueira Silbiger Vivian , Ducati Luchessi André , de Souza Sandro , Batistuzzo de Medeiros Silvia Regina
Published: December 2017

Although human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are a powerful tool for cell therapy, prolonged culture times result in replicative senescence or acquisition of tumorigenic features. To identify a molecular signature for senescence, we compared the transcriptome of senescent and young hMSCs with normal karyotype (hMSCs/n) and with a constitutional inversion of chromosome 3 (hMSC/inv). Senescent and young cells from both lineages showed differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with higher levels in senescent hMSCs/inv. Among the 30 DEGs in senescent hMSC/inv, 11 are new candidates for biomarkers of cellular senescence. The functional categories most represented in senescent hMSCs were related to cellular development, cell growth/proliferation, cell death, cell signaling/interaction, and cell movement. Mapping of DEGs onto biological networks revealed matrix metalloproteinase-1, thrombospondin 1, and epidermal growth factor acting as topological bottlenecks. In the comparison between senescent hMSCs/n and senescent hMSCs/inv, other functional annotations such as segregation of chromosomes, mitotic spindle formation, and mitosis and proliferation of tumor lines were most represented. We found that many genes categorized into functional annotations related to tumors in both comparisons, with relation to tumors being highest in senescent hMSCs/inv. The data presented here improves our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the onset of cellular senescence as well as tumorigenesis.