bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Sulfide and/or Ammonia Reduces Spermatozoa Motility through AMPK/AKT Related Pathways
Authors: Zhao Yong , Zhang Wei-Dong , Liu Xin-Qi , Zhang Peng-Fei , Hao Ya-Nan , Li Lan , Chen Liang , Shen Wei , Tang Xiang-Fang , Min Ling-Jiang , Meng Qing-Shi , Wang Shu-Kun , Yi Bao , Zhang Hong-Fu
Published: November 2016

A number of emerging studies suggest that air pollutants such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and ammonia (NH3) may cause a decline in spermatozoa motility. The impact and underlying mechanisms are currently unknown. Boar spermatozoa (in vitro) and peripubertal male mice (in vivo) were exposed to H2S and/or NH3 to evaluate the impact on spermatozoa motility. Na2S and/or NH4Cl reduced the motility of boar spermatozoa in vitro. Na2S and/or NH4Cl disrupted multiple signaling pathways including decreasing Na+/K+ ATPase activity and protein kinase B (AKT) levels, activating Adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten (PTEN), and increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) to diminish boar spermatozoa motility. The increase in ROS might have activated PTEN, which in turn diminished AKT activation. The ATP deficiency (indicated by reduction in Na+/K+ ATPase activity), transforming growth factor (TGFβ) activated kinase-1 (TAK1) activation, and AKT deactivation stimulated AMPK, which caused a decline in boar spermatozoa motility. Simultaneously, the deactivation of AKT might play some role in the reduction of boar spermatozoa motility. Furthermore, Na2S and/or NH4Cl declined the motility of mouse spermatozoa without affecting mouse body weight gain in vivo. Findings of the present study suggest that H2S and/or NH3 are adversely associated with spermatozoa motility.
TGF beta receptor II interacting protein-1, an intracellular protein has an extracellular role as a modulator of matrix mineralization
Authors: Ramachandran Amsaveni , Ravindran Sriram , Huang Chun-Chieh , George Anne
Published: November 2016

Transforming growth factor beta receptor II interacting protein 1 (TRIP-1), a predominantly intracellular protein is localized in the ECM of bone. TRIP-1 lacks a signal peptide, therefore, in this study, we provide evidence that intracellular TRIP-1 can be packaged and exported to the ECM via exosomes. Overexpression of TRIP-1 in MC3T3-E1 cells resulted in increased matrix mineralization during differentiation and knockdown resulted in reduced effects. In vivo function of TRIP-1 was studied by an implantation assay performed using TRIP-1 overexpressing and knockdown cells cultured in a 3-dimmensional scaffold. After 4 weeks, the subcutaneous tissues from TRIP-1 overexpressing cells showed higher calcium and phosphate deposits, arranged collagen fibrils and increased expression of Runx2 and alkaline phosphatase. Nucleation studies on demineralized and deproteinized dentin wafer is a powerful tool to determine the functional role of noncollagenous proteins in matrix mineralization. Using this system, we provide evidence that TRIP-1 binds to Type-I collagen and can promote mineralization. Surface plasmon resonance analysis demonstrated that TRIP-1 binds to collagen with KD = 48 μM. SEM and TEM analysis showed that TRIP-1 promoted the nucleation and growth of calcium phosphate mineral aggregates. Taken together, we provide mechanistic insights of this intracellular protein in matrix mineralization.
All-optical THz wave switching based on CH3NH3PbI3 perovskites
Authors: Lee Kyu-Sup , Kang Rira , Son Byungwoo , Kim Dong-Yu , Yu Nan Ei , Ko Do-Kyeong
Published: November 2016

Hybrid structures of silicon with organic–inorganic perovskites are proposed for optically controllable switching of terahertz (THz) waves over a broad spectral range from 0.2 to 2THz. A 532-nm external laser was utilized to generate photoexcited free carriers at the devices and consequentially to control the terahertz amplitude modulation, obtaining a depth of up to 68% at a laser irradiance of 1.5 W/cm2. In addition, we compared the performances from three types of perovskite devices fabricated via different solution processing methods and suggested a stable and highly efficient THz switch based on a one-step processing. By this we demonstrated the possibility of perovskites as THz wave switching devices in addition to photovoltaics.
Impaired Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Homodimer Formation Triggers Development of Transplant Vasculopathy - Insights from a Murine Aortic Transplantation Model
Authors: Oberhuber Rupert , Riede Gregor , Cardini Benno , Bernhard David , Messner Barbara , Watschinger Katrin , Steger Christina , Brandacher Gerald , Pratschke Johann , Golderer Georg , Werner Ernst R. , Maglione Manuel
Published: November 2016

Transplant vasculopathy (TV) represents a major obstacle to long-term graft survival and correlates with severity of ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). Donor administration of the nitric oxide synthases (NOS) co-factor tetrahydrobiopterin has been shown to prevent IRI. Herein, we analysed whether tetrahydrobiopterin is also involved in TV development. Using a fully allogeneic mismatched (BALB/c to C57BL/6) murine aortic transplantation model grafts subjected to long cold ischemia time developed severe TV with intimal hyperplasia (α-smooth muscle actin positive cells in the neointima) and endothelial activation (increased P-selectin expression). Donor pretreatment with tetrahydrobiopterin significantly minimised these changes resulting in only marginal TV development. Severe TV observed in the non-treated group was associated with increased protein oxidation and increased occurrence of endothelial NOS monomers in the aortic grafts already during graft procurement. Tetrahydrobiopterin supplementation of the donor prevented all these early oxidative changes in the graft. Non-treated allogeneic grafts without cold ischemia time and syngeneic grafts did not develop any TV. We identified early protein oxidation and impaired endothelial NOS homodimer formation as plausible mechanistic explanation for the crucial role of IRI in triggering TV in transplanted aortic grafts. Therefore, targeting endothelial NOS in the donor represents a promising strategy to minimise TV.
Spatially resolved microfluidic stimulation of lymphoid tissue ex vivo
Authors: Ross Ashley E. , Belanger Maura C. , Woodroof Jacob F. , Pompano Rebecca R.
Published: November 2016

We present the first microfluidic platform for local stimulation of lymph node tissue slices and demonstrate targeted delivery of a model therapeutic.
Viable synthesis of highly compressible, ultra-light graphene–carbon nanotube composite aerogels without additional reductant and their applications for strain-sensitivity
Authors: Gao Liang , Wang Feng , Zhan Wenwei , Wang Yue , Sui Gang , Yang Xiaoping
Published: November 2016

A facile synthesis of ultra-light graphene–carbon nanotube composite aerogels that needed no additional reductant is reported herein, and the aerogels exhibited highly compressibility and superior electrical conductivity.
An unprecedented 1,4-diphospha-2,3-disila butadiene (–PSi–SiP–) derivative and a 1,3-diphospha-2-silaallyl anion, each stabilized by the amidinate ligand
Authors: Kundu Subrata , Mohapatra Chandrajeet , Samuel Prinson P. , Kretsch Johannes , Walawalkar M. G. , Herbst-Irmer Regine , Stalke Dietmar , De Sriman , Koley Debasis , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: November 2016

The synthesis of a 1,4-bisphosphino-2,3-disila butadiene and a 1,3-diphospha-2-silaallyl anion has been reported.
Understanding the self-assembly of amino ester-based benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamides using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Bejagam Karteek K. , Remsing Richard C. , Klein Michael L. , Balasubramanian Sundaram
Published: November 2016

Amino ester-based benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamides (BTAs) are widely studied experimentally for their facile self-assembly, which leads to strong three-fold hydrogen bonded supramolecular polymers.
Kinetics of the reversible inclusion of flavopereirine in cucurbit[7]uril
Authors: Miskolczy Zsombor , Biczók László , Jablonkai István
Published: November 2016

The temperature dependence of the formation and dissociation kinetics of the flavopereirine–cucurbit[7]uril complex is revealed.
Asymmetric cycloaddition reactions catalysed by diarylprolinol silyl ethers
Authors: Klier Lydia , Tur Fernando , Poulsen Pernille H. , Jørgensen Karl Anker
Published: November 2016

Organocatalysis as a paint palette for asymmetric cycloaddition reactions.
New insights into the support morphology-dependent ammonia synthesis activity of Ru/CeO2catalysts
Authors: Ma Zhanwei , Zhao Shengli , Pei Xiaoping , Xiong Xumao , Hu Bin
Published: November 2016

Different morphologies ceria (nanocubes, nanorods and nanoparticles) were synthesized and exhibited significant support-morphology-dependent catalytic activity towards ammonia synthesis.
A general approach for the synthesis of bimetallic M–Sn (M = Ru, Rh and Ir) catalysts for efficient hydrogenolysis of ester
Authors: Samal Akshaya K. , Zhu Haibo , Harb Moussab , Sangaru Shiv Shankar , Anjum Dalaver H. , Hedhili Mohamed N. , Saih Youssef , Basset Jean-Marie
Published: November 2016

A versatile synthetic method was applied for the preparation of Sn containing bimetallic catalysts.
Novel mitochondria targeted copper(ii) complexes of ferrocenyl terpyridine and anticancer active 8-hydroxyquinolines showing remarkable cytotoxicity, DNA and protein binding affinity
Authors: Deka Banashree , Sarkar Tukki , Banerjee Samya , Kumar Arun , Mukherjee Sanjoy , Deka Sasanka , Saikia Kandarpa K. , Hussain Akhtar
Published: November 2016

Mixed-ligand ferrocenyl copper(ii) complexes target the mitochondria of cancer cells showing remarkable cytotoxicity against HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cells while being much less toxic to MCF-10A normal cells.
An unusual co-crystal [(μ2-dcpm)Ag2(μ2-O2CH)(η2-NO3)]2·[(μ2-dcpm)2Ag4(μ2-NO3)4] and its connection to the selective decarboxylation of formic acid in the gas phase
Authors: Zavras Athanasios , White Jonathan M. , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: November 2016

Binuclear silver cluster with μ2-formate and μ2-dcpm catalyses the decomposition of HCO2H. This structural motif is present in the crystal.
Shape, electronic structure and steric effects of organometallic nanocatalysts: relevant tools to improve the synergy between theory and experiment
Authors: Cusinato Lucy , del Rosal Iker , Poteau Romuald
Published: November 2016

An integrated package that uses structural, first principles and thermodynamic approaches is expected to play a significant role in advancing our knowledge of nanocatalysts.
A ruthenium tellurocarbonyl (CTe) complex with a cyclopentadienyl ligand: systematic studies of a series of chalcogenocarbonyl complexes [CpRuCl(CE)(H2IMes)] (E = O, S, Se, Te)
Authors: Suzuki Ayumi , Arai Takahiro , Ikenaga Kota , Mutoh Yuichiro , Tsuchida Noriko , Saito Shinichi , Ishii Youichi
Published: November 2016

The first tellurocarbonyl complex with a half-sandwich structure [CpRuCl(CTe)(H2IMes)] was synthesized and compared with its CE (E = O, S, Se) analogs.
A proposed nomenclature for biological processes that remove nitrogen
Authors: Weißbach Max , Criddle Craig S. , Drewes Jörg E. , Koch Konrad
Published: November 2016

A consistent terminology is proposed to resolve present inconsistencies and to facilitate distinct communication about biological nitrogen removal processes.
Patterns in Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast colonies via magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tenório Rômulo P. , Barros Wilson
Published: November 2016

The reported imaging method can be used to investigate the process of yeast colony formation, cell distribution and structural heterogeneity.
Rapid detection of Hendra virus antibodies: an integrated device with nanoparticle assay and chaotic micromixing
Authors: Petkovic K. , Metcalfe G. , Chen H. , Gao Y. , Best M. , Lester D. , Zhu Y.
Published: November 2016

An integrated device with nanoparticle assay and chaotic micromixing for rapid detection of Hendra virus antibodies.
Three-dimensional porous bowl-shaped carbon cages interspersed with carbon coated Ni–Sn alloy nanoparticles as anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Zhiyuan , Wang Dan , Luo Shaohua , Bao Shuo , Liu Yanguo , Qi Xiwei , He Chunnian , Shi Chunsheng , Zhao Naiqin
Published: November 2016

Three-dimensional porous carbon cages interspersed with Ni–Sn alloy nanoparticles are synthesized by freeze-drying with self-assembled NaCl as a template followed by annealing.
Facile hydrothermal synthesis and pulsed laser deposition of Ca0.5Y1−x(WO4)2:xEu3+ phosphors: investigations on the luminescence, Judd–Ofelt analysis and charge compensation mechanism
Authors: Mahalingam Venkatakrishnan , Thirumalai Jagannathan
Published: November 2016

PL emission spectra of Ca0.5Y1−x(WO4)2:xEu3+ for powder and thin film phosphors, and PL spectra of Ca0.5Y1−x(WO4)2:xEu3+ co-doped with alkali metal ions.
Robust synthesis of F-BODIPYs
Authors: Beh Michael Helmut Reynolds , Douglas Katherine Isabelle Biehn , House Kelsey Taylor Elver , Murphy Alexandra Celeste , Sinclair Jackson Scott Testemale , Thompson Alison
Published: November 2016

A protocol is established for the high-yielding synthesis of F-BODIPYs involving non-anhydrous reagents and not requiring precautions to exclude moisture.
Metal-free radical thiolations mediated by very weak bases
Authors: Koziakov Denis , Majek Michal , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: November 2016

A radical aromatic substitution mechanism initiated by very weak bases effects the synthesis of thioethers and heavier chalcogenides.
Correction: Influence of ligand second coordination sphere effects on the olefin (co)polymerization properties of α-diimine Pd(ii) catalysts
Authors: Wang Ruikun , Zhao Minhui , Chen Changle
Published: November 2016

Correction for ‘Influence of ligand second coordination sphere effects on the olefin (co)polymerization properties of α-diimine Pd(ii) catalysts’ by Ruikun Wang et al., Polym. Chem., 2016, 7, 3933–3938.
Formal enantioselective syntheses of oseltamivir and tamiphosphor
Authors: Silva Saúl , Maycock Christopher D.
Published: November 2016

An alternative and expedient route for the synthesis of the influenza antiviral drugs oseltamivir and tamiphosphor is described.
Partial oxidation of 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol to methacrylic acid: experimental and neural network modeling
Authors: Darabi Mahboub Mohammad Jaber , Rostamizadeh Mohammad , Dubois Jean-luc , Patience Gregory S.
Published: November 2016

Methacrylic acid (MAA) is a specialty intermediate to produce methyl methacrylate (MMA), which is a monomer for poly methyl methacrylate.
Building a chimera of aptamer–antisense oligonucleotide for silencing galectin-1 gene
Authors: Hong Shanni , Sun Na , Liu Min , Wang Jine , Pei Renjun
Published: November 2016

Galectin-1 is closely related with immune systems, and its overexpression may cause tumor metastasis.
Dual release of a hydrophilic and a hydrophobic osteogenic factor from a single liposome
Authors: Monteiro Nelson , Martins Albino , Pires Ricardo A. , Faria Susana , Fonseca Nuno A. , Moreira João N. , Reis Rui L. , Neves Nuno M.
Published: November 2016

Dual release of growth/differentiation factors from liposomes induced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells.
PLGA nanocomposites loaded with verteporfin and gold nanoparticles for enhanced photodynamic therapy of cancer cells
Authors: Deng Wei , Kautzka Zofia , Chen Wenjie , Goldys Ewa M
Published: November 2016

Enhanced 1O2 generation from PLGA loaded with verteporfin and gold nanoparticles under light illumination has the potential to improve cancer cell-killing effect.
New cadinane sesquiterpenoids from the basidiomycetous fungus Pholiota sp.
Authors: Lin Jie , Wang Renlei , Xu Guohua , Ding Zhengfeng , Zhu Xueshen , Liu Xingzhong , Zou Jian , Chen Guodong , Li Li , Liu Ling
Published: November 2016

The basidiomycetous fungus Pholiota sp. produced five new cadinane sesquiterpenoids pholiotins A–E (1–5). The absolute configurations were determined by X-ray diffraction, the Snatzke's method and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations.
Pattern formation of drying lyotropic liquid crystalline droplet
Authors: Roy Biswajit , Karmakar Sanat , Giri Abhra , Tarafdar Sujata
Published: November 2016

We present a study of pattern formation in drying sessile droplets of aqueous solutions of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)–water system using polarising optical microscopy (POM) and computer simulation.
Microbial transformation of methyl cyperenoate by Cunninghamella elegans AS 3.2028 and the antithrombotic activities of its metabolites
Authors: Tian Jin-Long , Chen Yu , Wang Yu-Xi , Huang Xiao-Xiao , Sun Xue , Liu Ke-Chun , Song Shao-Jiang
Published: November 2016

Microbial transformation is a remarkable tool for the structural modification of bioactive natural compounds converting them into more valuable biologically active derivatives.
Mechanical properties of polymer composites reinforced by functionalized graphene prepared via direct exfoliation of graphite flakes in styrene
Authors: Wang Xiwei , Tan Dongxing , Chu Zhaoyang , Chen Li , Chen Xuegang , Zhao Jian , Chen Guangming
Published: November 2016

By incorporating FGs into PS matrix appropriately, the obtained PS/FGs exhibit dramatic enhancement in mechanical properties.
Enantioselective Narasaka–Heck cyclizations: synthesis of tetrasubstituted nitrogen-bearing stereocenters
Authors: Race Nicholas J. , Faulkner Adele , Fumagalli Gabriele , Yamauchi Takayuki , Scott James S. , Rydén-Landergren Marie , Sparkes Hazel A. , Bower John F.
Published: November 2016

A SPINOL-derived P,N-ligand system enables Pd-catalyzed 5-exo cyclization of oxime esters with trisubstituted alkenes to generate dihydropyrroles in up to 86% yield and 95 : 5 e.r.
A robust design of Ru quantum dot/N-doped holey graphene for efficient Li–O2batteries
Authors: Nazarian-Samani Masoud , Lim Hee-Dae , Haghighat-Shishavan Safa , Kim Hyun-Kyung , Ko Youngmin , Kim Myeong-Seong , Lee Suk-Woo , Kashani-Bozorg Seyed Farshid , Abbasi Majid , Guim Hwan-Uk , Kim Dong-Ik , Roh Kwang-Chul , Kang Kisuk , Kim Kwang-Bum
Published: November 2016

We present a facile, up-scalable and cost-effective strategy to prepare defect-laden holey graphene counterparts for energy-related applications.
Panchromatic ternary/quaternary polymer/fullerene BHJ solar cells based on novel silicon naphthalocyanine and silicon phthalocyanine dye sensitizers
Authors: Ke Lili , Gasparini Nicola , Min Jie , Zhang Hong , Adam Matthias , Rechberger Stefanie , Forberich Karen , Zhang Chaohong , Spiecker Erdmann , Tykwinski Rik R. , Brabec Christoph J. , Ameri Tayebeh
Published: November 2016

SiNC-1is successfully applied in ternary/quaternary devices, accompanied by charge transfer/transport mechanism studies.
Ground-state charge transfer for NIR absorption with donor/acceptor molecules: interactions mediated via energetics and orbital symmetries
Authors: Zhang Qian , Liu Xianjie , Jiao Fei , Braun Slawomir , Jafari Mohammad Javad , Crispin Xavier , Ederth Thomas , Fahlman Mats
Published: November 2016

This paper illustrates structure–property relationship of organic conjugated molecules in forming NIR-absorbing organic donor/acceptor charge-transfer complex at ground state.
Multicolored electrochromism from benzodipyrrolidone-based ambipolar electrochromes at a fixed potential
Authors: Ling Yuan , Xiang Chunlan , Zhou Gang
Published: November 2016

Multicolored electrochromism has been achieved in single-layer electrochromic devices at a fixed potential employing benzodipyrrolidone based ambipolar electrochromes.
Stability of the interstellar hydrogen inflow longitude from 20 years of SOHO/SWAN observations
Authors: Koutroumpa D. , Quémerais E. , Katushkina O. , Lallement R. , Bertaux J.-L. , Schmidt W.
Published: November 2016

Aims. A recent debate on the decade-long stability of the interstellar He flow vector, and in particular the flow longitude, has prompted us to check for any variability in the interstellar H flow vector as observed by the SWAN instrument on board SOHO.

Methods. We used a simple model-independent method to determine the interstellar H flow longitude, based on the parallax effects induced on the Lyman-α intensity measured by SWAN following the satellite motion around the Sun.

Results. Our results show that the interstellar H flow vector longitude does not vary significantly from an average value of 252.9°± 1.4° throughout the 20-year span of the SWAN dataset, further strengthening the arguments for the stability of the interstellar gas flow.
Mesencephalotomy, How I Do It: Analysis of 34 Cases
Authors: Lages Gustavo Veloso , Oliveira Júnior José Oswaldo
Published: November 2016

The present paper aims to demystify the use of rostral mesencephalic reticulotomy (mesencephalotomy) in the treatment of chronic pain in cancer patients. A retrospective review of the medical records from the Central Pain and Stereotaxy Department of the A. C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, state of São Paulo, Brazil, between 2005 and 2012, was performed. Surgical indication was restricted to patients with cancer pain refractory to etiological and symptomatic treatments, > 2 months of expected survival, preserved cognition, and absence of coagulation disorders, of systemic infection, and of intracranial hypertension. We have selected 34 patients, with an average follow-up of 9.4 months, an average age of 54.3 years-old, and an average follow-up time until death of 6.4 months. Lung cancer was the most frequent diagnosis. Satisfactory and immediate pain relief was achieved in 91% of the cases, and 83% of these patients had no relapses. Among the complications, ocular movement disorder was the most frequent, but often transient. Permanent disturbances occurred in 8.8% of the cases (diplopia, rubral tremor, and paresthesia). Compared to the pharmacological treatment, mesencephalotomy was economically feasible, more effective, and improved quality of life. According to the data presented, it can be concluded that mesencephalotomy is a viable procedure for cancer pain control in selected cases.
Structured interdisciplinary bedside rounds do not reduce length of hospital stay and 28-day re-admission rate among older people hospitalised with acute illness: an Australian study
Authors: Huynh Elizabeth , Basic David , Gonzales Rinaldo , Shanley Chris
Published: November 2016

Objective Structured interdisciplinary bedside rounds (SIBR) are being implemented across many hospitals in Australia despite limited evidence of their effectiveness. This study evaluated the effect of SIBR on two interconnected outcomes, namely length of stay (LOS) and 28-day re-admission. Methods In the present before-after study of 3644 patients, twice-weekly SIBR were implemented on two aged care wards. Although weekly case conferences were shortened during SIBR, all other practices remained unchanged. Demographic, medical and frailty measures were considered in appropriate analyses. Results There was no significant difference in median (interquartile range) LOS before and during SIBR (8 (5–15) vs 8 (4–15) days respectively; P = 0.51). In an adjusted analysis, SIBR had no effect on LOS (hazard ratio 0.97; 95% confidence interval 0.90–1.05). The presence of dementia or delirium, or the ability to speak English, did not modify the effect of SIBR (P > 0.05 for all). Similarly, SIBR had no effect on 28-day re-admission rates (20.3% vs 19.0% before and during SIBR respectively; P = 0.36). Conclusions Although ineffective interdisciplinary communication is associated with negative outcomes for patients and healthcare services, models of care that aim to improve communication are not necessarily effective in reducing LOS or early re-admission. Clinical services implementing SIBR are encouraged to independently evaluate their effects. What is known about the topic? Ineffective interdisciplinary communication may harm patients and increase LOS. Only two publications have evaluated the implementation of SIBR, a new model of care that aims to improve interdisciplinary communication and collaboration. One paper reported that SIBR reduced unadjusted LOS and in-hospital mortality, whereas the other found that SIBR improved teamwork, communication and staff efficiency. What does this paper add? The effect of SIBR among acutely unwell older people on aged care wards is unknown. The present study is the first to evaluate the effects of SIBR in this population. It shows that the implementation of SIBR did not reduce LOS or early re-admission, and suggests that existing communication strategies may have weakened the effects of SIBR. What are the implications for practitioners? Policies and practice that promote the addition of communication strategies, such as SIBR, may not be effective in all patient populations. More research is needed to determine whether SIBR reduce these and other outcomes, particularly for services with weaker communication frameworks and protocols.
Doctors’ attitudes regarding not for resuscitation orders
Authors: Sritharan Gaya , Mills Amber C. , Levinson Michele R. , Gellie Anthea L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives The aims of the present study were to investigate doctors’ attitudes regarding the discussion and writing of not for resuscitation (NFR) orders and to identify potential barriers to the completion of these orders. Methods A questionnaire-based convenience study was undertaken at a tertiary hospital. Likert scales and open-ended questions were directed to issues surrounding the discussion, timing, understanding and writing of NFR orders, including legal and personal considerations. Results Doctors thought the presence of an NFR order both should and does alter care delivered by nursing staff, particularly delivery of pain relief, nursing observations and contacting the medical emergency team. Eighty-five per cent of doctors believed they needed somebody else’s consent to write an NFR order (seeking of consent is not a requirement in most Australian jurisdictions). Conclusion There are complex barriers to the writing and implementation of NFR orders, including doctors’ knowledge around the need for consent when cardiopulmonary resuscitation is likely to be futile or excessively burdensome. Doctors also believed that NFR orders result in changes to goals-of-care, suggesting a confounding of NFR orders with palliative care. Furthermore, doctors are willing to write NFR orders where there is clear medical indication and the patient is imminently dying, but are otherwise reliant on patients and family to initiate discussion. What is known about the topic? Hospitalised elderly patients, in the absence of an NFR order, are known to have poor survival and outcomes following resuscitation. Further, Australian data on the prevalence of NFR forms show that only a minority of older in-patients have a written NFR order in their history. In Australian hospitals, NFR orders are completed by doctors. What does this paper add? To our knowledge, the present study is the first in Australia to qualitatively analyse doctors’ reasons to writing NFR orders. The open-text nature of this questioning has been important in eliciting doctors’ responses without hypothesis guessing bias. Further, we add to the literature on the breadth of considerations doctors may encounter with regard to NFR orders. What are the implications for practitioners? The findings indicate the issues impeding decision making around cardiopulmonary resuscitation relate to poor knowledge of the law, particularly around the issue of consent and confounding NFR orders with provision of palliative care. Such barriers to the completion of NFR orders expose elderly in-patients to futile and burdensome resuscitation events. The findings suggest consideration be given to education and training materials to inform doctors about jurisdictional law regarding resuscitation documentation, support decision making around cardiopulmonary resuscitation and promote goals-of-care discussions on admission.
A pump/leak model of growth: the biophysics of cell elongation in higher plants revisited
Authors: Wegner Lars H.
Published: November 2016

Current concepts of growth hydraulics in higher plants are critically revisited, and it is concluded that they partly fail to interpret the experimental data adequately, particularly in the case of hydroponics-grown roots. Theoretical considerations indicate that the growth rate in roots is controlled by the extensibility of the cell wall, excluding water availability (i.e. hydraulic conductance) as a major constraint. This is supported by the findings that the growth rate does not scale with turgor, and that no radial nor axial water potential gradients have been observed in the root elongation zone. Nevertheless, a water potential deficit ranging from –0.2 to –0.6 MPa has repeatedly been reported for growing cells that by far exceeds the shallow trans-membrane water potential difference required for the uptake of growth water. Unexpectedly, growth was also shown to depend on the hydraulic conductance (LP) of the plasma membrane of root cells, even though LP should generally be too large to have an impact on growth. For leaves, similar observations have been reported, but the interpretation of the data is less straightforward. Inconsistencies associated with the current model of growth hydraulics prompt the author to suggest a revised model that comprises, in addition to a passive mechanism of water transport across the plasma membrane of growing cells mediated by aquaporins (‘leak’) a secondary active water transport (‘pump’), in analogy to a mechanism previously demonstrated for mammalian epithelia and postulated for xylem parenchyma cells in roots. Water is hypothesised to be secreted against a trans-membrane water potential difference by cotransport with solutes (salts, sugars, and/or amino acids), taking advantage of the free energy released by this transport step. The solute concentration gradient is supposed to be maintained by a subsequent retrieval of the solutes from the apoplast and back-transport at the expense of metabolic energy. Water secretion tends to reduce the turgor pressure and retards growth, but turgor and, in turn, growth can be upregulated very rapidly independent from any adjustment in the osmolyte deposition rate by increasing LP and/or reducing secondary active water transport, e.g. when the root is exposed to mild osmotic stress, as confirmed by experimental studies.
Likely impact of pre-exposure prophylaxis on HIV epidemics among men who have sex with men
Authors: Zablotska Iryna B.
Published: November 2016

Rapid developments in the field of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with antiretrovirals offer a promise to bring HIV transmission among gay and other men who have sex with men (MSM) to zero by 2030. This review evaluates studies, which modelled the impact of PrEP on HIV diagnoses, and discusses the progress towards PrEP implementation. Studies in English, conducted after 2010 among MSM in countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) were reviewed. Six modelling studies were included, three of which had been conducted outside the US. None of the published models showed that PrEP alone can reduce HIV diagnoses to zero and eliminate HIV transmission by 2030. However, PrEP in combination with other biomedical interventions can reduce HIV diagnoses on the population level by ~95%. Other upcoming biomedical prevention strategies may strengthen combination prevention. Access to PrEP remains limited, even in the OECD countries. Modelling studies can assist governments with decision-making about PrEP implementation and add urgency to the implementation of PrEP. More work is needed on modelling of the impact of PrEP on HIV diagnoses trends outside the US where PrEP implementation is in its early stages.
A functional role for intrinsic disorder in the tau-tubulin complex
Authors: Melo Ana M. , Coraor Juliana , Alpha-Cobb Garrett , Elbaum-Garfinkle Shana , Nath Abhinav , Rhoades Elizabeth
Published: November 2016

Significance

Tau is a neuronal microtubule-associated protein linked to numerous neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease. Several lines of evidence support tau aggregation as well as loss of its native interactions with microtubules as contributing to pathology. Here, we explored the largely overlooked first step of microtubule assembly, namely the interaction of tau with soluble tubulin heterodimers. Using single-molecule Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET), we determine the topological features of tau in complex with tubulin. Our results contrast differences in tau isoforms and underscore the importance of conformational flexibility in tau function.
Activation of mutant
TERT
promoter by RAS-ERK signaling is a key step in malignant progression of BRAF-mutant human melanomas
Authors: Li Yinghui , Cheng Hui Shan , Chng Wee Joo , Tergaonkar Vinay
Published: November 2016

Significance

Mutations in BRAF are dominant drivers of melanoma, and hence targeting them has been a success story in treatment of cancer. However, resistance to BRAF inhibitors is rapidly acquired and is a major impediment to cancer therapy. BRAF mutations per se only lead to nevi that remain nonmalignant for decades. What then is the key rate-limiting determinant of BRAF signaling for progression to melanomas? We show that mutant
TERT
promoter is a key downstream target of RAS-ERK and its activation downstream of BRAF signaling is a major rate-limiting step in melanoma progression, suggesting that simultaneous disruption of BRAF signaling and active chromatin remodeling at mutant
TERT
promoters may be an attractive strategy to overcome BRAF-inhibitor resistance during melanoma therapy.
Enhanced limonene production in cyanobacteria reveals photosynthesis limitations
Authors: Wang Xin , Liu Wei , Xin Changpeng , Zheng Yi , Cheng Yanbing , Sun Su , Li Runze , Zhu Xin-Guang , Dai Susie Y. , Rentzepis Peter M. , Yuan Joshua S.
Published: November 2016

Significance

Life on Earth depends on photosynthesis to capture solar energy and reduce CO
2
into organic carbons. One strategy to improve photosynthesis is to enhance carbon assimilation by "nonnative" carbon sinks (e.g., terpene biosynthesis). Previous attempts to enhance terpene biosynthesis in photosynthetic organisms have met with limited success. Through computational modeling and synthetic biology tools, we identified and overcame a key flux-controlling node in 2-
C
-methyl-
d
-erythritol 4-phosphate–derived terpene biosynthesis in cyanobacteria. This strategy bypasses the limitation in traditional stepwise metabolic engineering, and enables record limonene productivity. The breakthrough allowed systems biology analysis to reveal photosynthesis regulations under a high level of limonene production. Fine-tuning energy and reductant requirement could be a key factor to further synergize photosynthesis and terpene production.
The structure of the catechin-binding site of human sulfotransferase 1A1
Authors: Cook Ian , Wang Ting , Girvin Mark , Leyh Thomas S.
Published: November 2016

Significance

The human cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) regulate scores of disease-relevant cellular processes through site-specific attachment of the sulfuryl-group (-SO
3
) to signaling small molecules. Recent work reveals that SULT1A1, the predominant SULT in adult liver, harbors two allosteric-binding pockets, each of which binds a separate and complex class of biomorphic xenobiotics. These sites represent “portals” through which SULTs communicate with their environments, and their structures reveal the molecular basis of this dialog and provide templates for identifying new allosteres. Here, we present a structure of a SULT allosteric site—the catechin-binding site of SULT1A—which was determined using a spin-label triangulation method.
Comparative proteomics analysis of spermary and ovary in Hyriopsis schlegelii
Authors: Shi Jianwu , Wang Dexia , Zhou Yan , Gu Yiran , Wu Di , Wang Junhua , Hong Yijiang
Published: November 2016

We provide the first large-scale quantitative proteomics analysis in Hyriopsis schlegelii. To investigate the proteins expressed in the gonads, a quantitative proteomics approach has been utilized to analyze differentially expressed proteins between the spermary and ovary. In this study, we identified and quantified 2416 proteins in the gonads of Hyriopsis schlegelii. Of these, 559 proteins showed significantly different expression between the spermary and ovary. Some specific proteins expressed in either the spermary or ovary were identified in Hyriopsis schlegelii. In addition, a series of proteins related to gametogenesis were also identified. Compared with previous reports, many proteins in Hyriopsis schlegelii identified here have different expression patterns between the spermary and ovary. The special hermaphroditism in Hyriopsis schlegelii may contribute to these inconsistent results. The provided proteomics data could be considered as a starting point for subsequent studies focusing on the proteins involved in sexual gland development and maturity.
Iterative mesh-based hardness mapping
Authors: Brayshaw W. J. , Roy M. J. , Sun T. , Akrivos V. , Sherry A. H.
Published: November 2016

Hardness mapping permits quantification of the properties of materials over microstructurally significant lengths. A technique has been developed whereby hardness maps can be generated to account for specific weld geometry and further refined using an adaptive approach. Once a preliminary map is produced, subsequent indents are placed in high hardness gradient locations to decrease interpolation distances between indentation sites. The method is demonstrated with three test cases: an Al-7010 friction stir weld, an Alloy 600/82 (NeT TG6) weld and an SA508–4N/Alloy 82/316LN dissimilar metal weld. The results show that the method has identified and resolved high regions with elevated hardness gradients. This provides the ability to resolve weld regions rapidly across large areas minimising indent counts.
How and why intralumenal membrane fragments form during vacuolar lysosome fusion
Authors: Mattie Sevan , McNally Erin K. , Karim Mahmoud A. , Vali Hojatollah , Brett Christopher L.
Published: November 2016

Lysosomal membrane fusion mediates the last step of the autophagy and endocytosis pathways and supports organelle remodeling and biogenesis. Because fusogenic proteins and lipids concentrate in a ring at the vertex between apposing organelle membranes, the encircled area of membrane can be severed and internalized within the lumen as a fragment upon lipid bilayer fusion. How or why this intralumenal fragment forms during fusion, however, is not entirely clear. To better understand this process, we studied fragment formation during homotypic vacuolar lysosome membrane fusion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Using cell-free fusion assays and light microscopy, we find that GTPase activation and trans-SNARE complex zippering have opposing effects on fragment formation and verify that this affects the morphology of the fusion product and regulates transporter protein degradation. We show that fragment formwation is limited by stalk expansion, a key intermediate of the lipid bilayer fusion reaction. Using electron microscopy, we present images of hemifusion diaphragms that form as stalks expand and propose a model describing how the fusion machinery regulates fragment formation during lysosome fusion to control morphology and protein lifetimes.
Periodic actin structures in neuronal axons are required to maintain microtubules
Authors: Qu Yue , Hahn Ines , Webb Stephen E.D. , Pearce Simon P. , Prokop Andreas
Published: November 2016

Axons are cable-like neuronal processes wiring the nervous system. They contain parallel bundles of microtubules as structural backbones, surrounded by regularly spaced actin rings termed the periodic membrane skeleton (PMS). Despite being an evolutionarily conserved, ubiquitous, highly ordered feature of axons, the function of PMS is unknown. Here we studied PMS abundance, organization, and function, combining versatile Drosophila genetics with superresolution microscopy and various functional readouts. Analyses with 11 actin regulators and three actin-targeting drugs suggest that PMS contains short actin filaments that are depolymerization resistant and sensitive to spectrin, adducin, and nucleator deficiency, consistent with microscopy-derived models proposing PMS as specialized cortical actin. Upon actin removal, we observed gaps in microtubule bundles, reduced microtubule polymerization, and reduced axon numbers, suggesting a role of PMS in microtubule organization. These effects become strongly enhanced when carried out in neurons lacking the microtubule-stabilizing protein Short stop (Shot). Combining the aforementioned actin manipulations with Shot deficiency revealed a close correlation between PMS abundance and microtubule regulation, consistent with a model in which PMS-dependent microtubule polymerization contributes to their maintenance in axons. We discuss potential implications of this novel PMS function along axon shafts for axon maintenance and regeneration.
Concepts of Epidemiology
Authors: Bhopal Raj S.
Published: November 2016

Epidemiology is a population science that underpins health improvement and health care, and is concerned with the pattern, frequency, trends, and causes of disease. This book teaches its applications to population health research, policy-making, health service planning, health promotion, and clinical care. The book emphasizes concepts and principles. In 10 chapters, the book explains what epidemiology is; illustrates the basis of epidemiology in populations; provides a framework for analysing diseases by time, place, and person; introduces error, bias, and confounding; explains how we move from association to causation; considers the natural history, spectrum, and iceberg of disease in relation to medical screening; discusses the acquisition and analysis of data on incidence and prevalence of risk factors and diseases; shows the ways in which epidemiological data are presented, including relative and absolute risks; provides an integrated overview of study designs and the principles of data analysis; and considers the theoretical and ethical basis of epidemiology both in the past and the future. The emphasis is on interactive learning, with each chapter including learning objectives, theoretical and numerical exercises, questions and answers, and a summary. The text is illustrated, with detailed material in tables. The book is written in plain English, and the necessary technical and specialized terminology is explained and defined in a glossary. The book is for postgraduate courses in epidemiology, public health, and health policy. It is also suitable for clinicians, undergraduate students in medicine, nursing and other health disciplines, and researchers.
The Principles and Practice of Narrative Medicine
Authors: Charon Rita , DasGupta Sayantani , Hermann Nellie , Irvine Craig , Marcus Eric R. , Rivera Colsn Edgar , Spencer Danielle , Spiegel Maura
Published: November 2016

Narrative medicine is a clinical practice fortified by complex narrative skills that equip healthcare professionals to recognize, absorb, interpret, and be moved to action by patients’ and colleagues’ stories of illness. Founded in 2000 at Columbia University by the authors of this volume, narrative medicine provides rigorous conceptual frameworks and practical clinical methods to increase the accuracy and scope of clinicians’ knowledge of their patients and to deepen their therapeutic partnerships. This book presents the authors’ views, enriched by collaboration with a worldwide network of colleagues, of the workings of the narrative, relational, and reflexive processes of healthcare. Literary theory, narratology, continental philosophies, aesthetic theory, and cultural studies provide the intellectual foundations of narrative medicine, while primary care practice, patient-centered care, psychoanalysis, and interprofessional practice supply the clinical foundations.

The book provides both principles and practices of the central tenets of the discipline—relationality and emotion, the philosophies of embodiment, ethicality, participatory pedagogy, close reading, creativity, and clinical practice. Each Part of this volume explains the conceptual foundations of its subject and demonstrates the pedagogic or clinical methods of putting those principles into action. Narrative medicine has grown since its inception into an international movement including many health professional disciplines, patients, families, and institutions.The overarching goal of narrative medicine is to improve the effectiveness of healthcare. This volume provides the standards of the field’s theory and practice as a guide to all who are now joining in this creative commitment to improve healthcare for all.
A novel subsartorial approach in open reduction of developmental dysplasia of the hip: a preliminary 2-year follow-up report of 20 hips
Authors: Samir Barakat Mostafa Ahmed , Zein Abou Bakr , El Sayed Mohamed Fouad , Reda Walid , Abdel Karim Mahmoud , Amr Sherif , Elbarbary Hassan , Hegazy Mohamed
Published: November 2016

Background:

The anterior (Smith-Peterson) and medial (Ludloff) procedures are the most common approaches used for subluxation or dislocation in developmental dysplasia of the hip that cannot be treated conservatively. If conservative treatment has failed, additional procedures on the pelvic or femoral side may become necessary.

Methods:

In this prospective study we used a new subsartorial approach in the surgical treatment of 20 hips (17 patients of whom three had bilateral hip dysplasia) with a mean follow-up of 23.9 mo (range 22-26 mo). There were 16 hips in 13 girls and four unilateral hips in four boys. At surgery, the ages ranged from 9 to 24 mo, with a mean of 16.5 mo. The degree of initial hip subluxation was graded according to the Tönnis classification, with two hips (10%) type II, eight hips (40%) type III, and 10 hips (50%) type IV. We evaluated the clinical and radiographic outcomes of the patient cohort with the McKay and Severin classifications, respectively.

Results:

Clinically there were 15 hips (75%) with an excellent results and five hips with good results. According to the radiographic Severin classification, nine hips had an excellent result (type I), 10 had a good result (type II), and one hip had a fair result (type III). One hip (5%) developed avascular necrosis according to the Kalmachi and MacEwan classification but eventually had good clinical outcome precluding any surgical intervention. Two girls (10%) developed left lateral subluxation 3 mo postoperatively. Femoral derotation osteotomy was done 6 mo postoperatively.

Conclusions:

The subsartorial approach was a safe, reliable, and reproducible approach in the pediatric hip in patients younger than 2 yr of age who had not had a previous operation or a history of paralytic hip dislocation. We recommend this approach for surgeons who are familiar with the pediatric hip.