bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural properties and chemical bonds in double metal cyanide catalysts
Authors: Lawniczak‐Jablonska K. , Dynowska E. , Lisowski W. , Sobczak J. W. , Chruściel A. , Hreczuch W. , Libera J. , Reszka A.
Published: June 2015

Double metal cyanide (DMC) catalysts are commonly applied at industrial ring‐opening polymerization of the epoxides, being the initial stage of the polyurethanes manufacturing route. This group of catalysts is frequently used in industry, but the knowledge on the molecular nature of their high activity and selectivity is limited to some phenomenological hypotheses based on overall chemical premises. To shine some light on the relation between structural and chemical properties of DMC catalysts and their activity, the complementary X‐ray powder diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy studies were performed. The comprehensive characterization of DMC catalyst synthesized from ZnCl2 and potassium hexacyanocobaltate(III) solution, in presence of the organic ligand (tBuOH), confirmed that a significant part of the catalyst material reveals the features of the non‐crystalline structure. Extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) analysis established that only Zn atoms are the active metallic centers in the DMC catalyst. The coordination around Zn was changed from octahedral in reference material to tetrahedral in catalysts, and Cl atoms were detected near some of the Zn atoms, but no significant amount of oxygen atoms was detected, which agrees with XPS chemical analysis. The performed experimental studies give direct experimental evidence for the model deduced by Zhang et al., and for the calculation performed by Wojdeł et al. Moreover, the generally accepted formula Zn3[Co(CN)6]2•xZnCl2•ytBuOH•zH2O describing this catalyst is not valid, because none of the compounds were detected by XRD or EXAFS techniques.

Regarding the relation between structural and chemical activity of catalyst, we conclude that for the chemical activity of DMC catalyst not only is the content of Cl very important, but also the fraction of non‐crystalline phase, the formation of which is stimulated by ligand. The non‐crystalline fraction of catalyst may offer the easier access to the active center with Cl. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Powder diffraction and synchrotron radiation, a powerful tool in the investigation of new compounds: CdBr2(3‐fluoroaniline)2 and CdBr2(4‐fluoroaniline)2
Authors: Grzesiak‐Nowak M. , Appleby G. , Łasocha W.
Published: June 2015

Using synchrotron powder diffraction data, two new complexes of CdBr2 with 3‐fluoroaniline and 4‐fluoroaniline were fully characterised with regard to their structure. Their crystal structures were solved and refined by means of powder diffraction techniques. The investigated materials belong to the group of hybrid inorganic–organic coordination polymers. The structures of both compounds are created by the same type, infinite chains formed by CdBr4N2 octahedra. Each cadmium cation is surrounded by four Br− anions, and two N atoms from two fluoroaniline molecules.

The obtained structural data enable us to investigate the influence of the position of the F atom in the aniline ring on the crystal structure, as well as to interpret its thermal stability. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed Micellization and Interfacial Properties of Ionic Liquid‐Type Imidazolium Gemini Surfactant with Amphiphilic Drug Amitriptyline Hydrochloride and its Thermodynamics
Authors: Patel Rajan , Khan Abbul Bashar , Dohare Neeraj , Maroof Ali Mohd. , Rajor Hament Kumar
Published: June 2015

The thermodynamics of mixed micellization of amitriptyline hydrochloride (AMT) with ionic liquid‐type imidazolium gemini surfactant ([C10‐4‐C10im] Br2), was investigated at different mole fractions and temperatures by surface tension measurements. The deviation of the critical micelle concentration (CMC) from the ideal critical micelle concentration (CMC*), micellar mole fraction () from ideal micellar mole fraction (), the values of interaction parameter () and activity coefficients () (for both mixed micelles and mixed monolayer) explained the non‐ideal behavior (i.e., synergistic behavior) of binary mixtures. The excess free energy (∆Gex) for the AMT‐[C10‐4‐C10im] Br2 binary mixtures explained the mixed micelles stability in comparison to micelles of [C10‐4‐C10im] Br2 and pure AMT. Interfacial parameters, i.e., Gibbs surface excess (), minimum head group area at air/water interface (), free energy of micellization (), and standard Gibbs energy of adsorption (∆Gadso) were also evaluated for the systems. The standard entropy of adsorption (∆Sadso) was found higher than the standard entropy of micellization (∆Smo) at all mole fractions of AMT (α1).
Revisiting Gender and Religion
Authors: Charlton Joy C.
Published: June 2015

In this presidential address delivered at the 2014 annual meeting of the Religious Research Association, the topic of religion and gender is revisited by focusing on parallel histories of American Protestant ordained clergywomen and social science scholarship on religion, noting that in both cases we have witnessed extraordinary change, but not transformation.
Perioperative Nursing Leaders Implement Clinical Practice Guidelines Using the Iowa Model of Evidence‐Based Practice
Authors: White Shawna , Spruce Lisa
Published: June 2015

Many health care organizations, nursing leaders, and individual clinicians are not providing care consistently based on evidence and many are not aware of the evidence that is available. Preventable complications have an adverse effect on hospital reimbursement and the burden is placed on hospital personnel and nursing leaders to use current evidence to improve care and prevent complications, such as surgical site infections. Using AORN resources, leadership involvement and ownership, and implementing a theoretical model will contribute to implementing daily evidence‐based practice and help to decrease the chasm between research and practice.
Back to Basics: Patient and Family Engagement
Authors: Spruce Lisa
Published: June 2015

Patient and family engagement is an active involvement in health care between patients, families, and their caregivers. Perioperative nurses should be active proponents of implementing patient engagement activities in the perioperative setting. This article introduces basic patient engagement concepts and how they can be implemented in the perioperative setting.
Postoperative Care of Patients Undergoing Same‐Day Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Brenner Patricia , Kautz Donald D.
Published: June 2015

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies are common outpatient surgical procedures. After briefly discussing cholecystectomy and its indications, best practices in phase I, phase II, and phase III recovery are discussed. Typical pharmaceutical regimens for controlling pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting are summarized. By implementing best practices, nurses can prevent and recognize complications. The criteria for discharge, extended recovery, and inpatient admission are discussed, along with the required patient discharge teaching using the teach‐back technique, as well as patient and family teaching needs in the immediate postoperative period. Nurses can optimize the patient's surgical experience and promote safety by implementing best practices in all phases of recovery from laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Pressure Mapping Comparison of Four OR Surfaces
Authors: Kirkland‐Walsh Holly , Teleten Oleg , Wilson Machelle , Raingruber Bonnie
Published: June 2015

Mortality and health care costs associated with hospital‐acquired pressure ulcers (HAPUs) increase yearly. After four hours of surgery, the risk of developing a pressure ulcer increases by 33% for every 30 minutes of surgery. Prolonged immobility, lower blood pressures, and increased surface interface pressure may hinder the blood supply delivered to the skin, eventually leading to pressure ulcers. We measured and compared four different OR surfaces to identify the most effective pressure redistribution surface for prolonged OR procedures. The best surface attributes that provide efficient pressure redistribution should have the following properties: the lowest average interface pressure, the lowest peak interface pressure, and the highest skin contact area. Although all surfaces had similar average interface pressures, the air‐inflated static seat cushion had the best pressure redistribution properties in the sacral region compared with the other surfaces tested.
Relative validation of the dietary intake of fatty acids among adults in the Swedish National Dietary Survey using plasma phospholipid fatty acid composition
Authors: Warensjö Lemming Eva , Nälsén Cecilia , Becker Wulf , Ridefelt Peter , Mattisson Iréne , Lindroos Anna Karin
Published: June 2015

The aims of a national dietary study are several-fold. One purpose is to monitor the intake of foods and nutrients in the population and to compare intakes with dietary recommendations. It is, however, difficult to measure dietary fat intake and plasma biomarker fatty acid (FA) composition may be used as an objective measure of dietary fat intake. Thus, the relative ability of a diet record to capture habitual fat intake was validated against biomarker FA. Dietary fat intake was measured in a novel self-assisted web-based 4-d food record – the ‘Riksmaten’ method. Spearman rank correlations between dietary FA, certain food groups (fish-shellfish, dairy products, meat and sausages, and spreads) and the fat content of these food groups and biomarker FA were explored. Participants were 150 women and 129 men, aged 18–80 years, who took part in the Swedish National Dietary Survey, Riksmaten adults 2010–11. Blood samples were collected on average 20 d after the diet record and FA composition was measured in plasma phospholipids by GLC. Totaln-3 FA (r0·31), EPA (r0·34) and DHA (r0·42) were correlated between plasma and diet (allP ≤ 0·001). Adjustment for covariates attenuated the relationships. Linoleic acid was only marginally correlated (r0·15;P = 0·06) in women. Plasma pentadecaenoic acid and heptadecaenoic acid were correlated with dairy product intake as previously reported. In conclusion, the Riksmaten method appears valid for the purpose of collecting data on dietary fat composition, at least in a healthy adult population.
Effects of DNA methylation inhibitors and conventional antidepressants on mice behaviour and brain DNA methylation levels
Authors: Sales Amanda Juliana , Joca Sâmia Regiane Lourenço
Published: June 2015

Objective

Stress increases DNA methylation and decreases the expression of genes involved in neural plasticity, while treatment with DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi) increases gene expression and induces antidepressant-like effects in preclinical models. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to further investigate the potential antidepressant-like effect induced by DNMTi by evaluating the behavioural effects induced by associating DNMTi treatment with conventional antidepressant drugs in mice submitted to the forced swimming test (FST). In addition, brain levels of DNA methylation were also investigated.

Methods

Mice received systemic injections of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-AzaD, 0.1, 0.2 mg/kg), RG108 (0.1, 0.2, 0.4 mg/kg), desipramine (DES, 2.5, 5, 10 mg/kg) or fluoxetine (FLX, 5, 10, 20, 30 mg/kg) and were submitted to the FST or to the open field test (OFT). Additional groups received a combination of subeffective doses of 5-AzaD or RG108 (DNMTi) with subeffective doses of DES or FLX (antidepressants).

Results

Subeffective doses of RG108 (0.1 mg/kg) or 5-AzaD (0.1mg/kg) in association with subeffective doses of DES (2.5 mg/kg) or FLX (10 mg/kg) induced significant antidepressant-like effects. Effective doses of RG108 (0.2 mg/kg), 5-AzaD (0.2 mg/kg), DES (10 mg/kg) and FLX (20 mg/kg) atenuated stress-induced changes in DNA methylation levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. None of the treatments induced locomotor effects in the OFT.

Conclusion

These results suggest that DNMTi potentiate the behavioural effects of antidepressant drugs in the FST and that antidepressants, as well as DNMTi, are able to modulate stress-induced changes in DNA methylation in brain regions closely associated with the neurobiology of depression.
Elizabeth's Reformation in the Irish Pale
Authors: JEFFERIES HENRY A.
Published: June 2015

This paper is focused on Elizabeth's Reformation in the Irish Pale around Dublin, the key religious battleground in Tudor Ireland. It highlights the strength of opposition to Elizabeth's religious settlement from the start of her reign. It shows in stark terms that Ireland experienced a Reformation virtually without reformers, and suggests that that was a major reason for its failure. The contrasting experiences of England and the Pale suggest, in turn, that revisionist historians have underestimated the progress of Protestantism in England before Elizabeth's reign.
Scottish Churches, Morality and Homosexual Law Reform, 1957–1980
Authors: MEEK JEFF
Published: June 2015

The role of Scottish Churches in the decision not to include Scotland in the 1967 Sexual Offences Act requires scrutiny. This article examines the role of the Church of Scotland, and other Churches, in debates regarding homosexuality in the years following publication of the Wolfenden Report. It argues that although Scotland's Churches appeared steadfast in their determination to prevent homosexual law reform during the 1950s and 1960s, there was much ambivalence, contradiction and debate and that, in fact, Scotland's two main Churches played a significant role in the development of Scotland's foremost homosexual rights organisation, the Scottish Minorities Group.
First records of the order Polycladida (Platyhelminthes, Rhabditophora) from reef ecosystems of Alagoas State, north-eastern Brazil, with the description ofThysanozoon alagoensissp. nov.
Authors: Bahia Juliana , Padula Vinicius , Correia Mônica Dorigo , Sovierzoski Hilda H.
Published: June 2015

The 230 km long coast of Alagoas State, in north-eastern Brazil, has diverse reef ecosystems, made from corals and of sandstone, that harbour a wide range of marine invertebrate fauna. Little is known about turbellarians of the order Polycladida in most parts of the Brazilian coast, with no record from Alagoas up to date. To fill this gap expeditions were conducted on the reefs from the central coast of Alagoas, where 11 Polycladida species were found:Pericelis cata, Enchiridium evelinae, Pseudoceros bicolorand a possible new colour variation of this species,Pseudoceros rawlinsonae, Pseudobiceros pardalis, Thysanozoon brocchii, Thysanozoon alagoensissp. nov.,Armatoplana leptalea, Adenoplana evelinae, Latocestus brasiliensis, Phaenocelis medvedica. The species are described in detail through photos of live specimens and histological sections. The present work adds six species to the north-eastern Brazilian coast, one of them a new species, and all 11 species are for the first time reported from Alagoas State. Also, it is the first time thatPhaenocelis medvedica, Adenoplana evelinae, Latocestus brasiliensisandArmatoplana leptaleaare illustrated by full colour photos of live specimens and histological sections.
THE ROLE OF EXPOSURE CONDITION IN THE EFFECTIVENESS OF EXPLICIT CORRECTION
Authors: Yilmaz Yucel
Published: June 2015

This article reports on a study that investigated the effects of two feedback exposure conditions on the acquisition of two Turkish morphemes. The study followed a randomized experimental design with an immediate and a delayed posttest. Forty-two Chinese-speaking learners of Turkish were randomly assigned to one of three groups: receivers, nonreceivers, and control. All learners performed three communication games with a Turkish native speaker in which their errors on the Turkish plural and locative morphemes were treated according to their group assignment. The receivers’ errors were corrected through explicit correction. The nonreceivers were allowed to hear the feedback provided to the receivers; however, they did not receive feedback on their own errors. The learners in the control group neither received feedback on their own errors nor were allowed to hear the feedback other learners received. Results indicated that feedback exposure condition has an effect on the extent to which learners benefit from feedback but that this effect may be moderated by linguistic structure.
Human rhinovirus infections in hospitalized children: clinical, epidemiological and virological features
Authors: TRAN D. N. , TRINH Q. D. , PHAM N. T. K. , PHAM T. M. H. , HA M. T. , NGUYEN T. Q. N. , OKITSU S. , SHIMIZU H. , HAYAKAWA S. , MIZUGUCHI M. , USHIJIMA H.
Published: June 2015

Molecular epidemiology and clinical impact of human rhinovirus (HRV) are not well documented in tropical regions. This study compared the clinical characteristics of HRV to other common viral infections and investigated the molecular epidemiology of HRV in hospitalized children with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Vietnam. From April 2010 to May 2011, 1082 nasopharyngeal swabs were screened for respiratory viruses by PCR. VP4/VP2 sequences of HRV were further characterized. HRV was the most commonly detected virus (30%), in which 70% were diagnosed as either pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Children with single HRV infections presented with significantly higher rate of hypoxia than those infected with respiratory syncytial virus or parainfluenza virus (PIV)-3 (12·4% vs. 3·8% and 0%, respectively, P < 0·05), higher rate of chest retraction than PIV-1 (57·3% vs. 34·5%, P = 0·028), higher rate of wheezing than influenza A (63·2% vs. 42·3%, P = 0·038). HRV-C did not differ to HRV-A clinically. The genetic diversity and changes of types over time were observed and may explain the year-round circulation of HRV. One novel HRV-A type was discovered which circulated locally for several years. In conclusion, HRV showed high genetic diversity and was associated with significant morbidity and severe ARIs in hospitalized children.
Chikungunya and dengue virus infections during pregnancy: seroprevalence, seroincidence and maternal–fetal transmission, southern Thailand, 2009–2010
Authors: LAOPRASOPWATTANA K. , SUNTHARASAJ T. , PETMANEE P. , SUDDEAUGRAI O. , GEATER A.
Published: June 2015

Limited information is available on the seroprevalence of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection and maternal–fetal transmission incidence of CHIKV and dengue virus (DENV) infections during the 2008–2009 CHIKV outbreak in southern Thailand. A community-based post-epidemic seroprevalence study was conducted in parturient women admitted to the Thepa District Hospital in Songkhla Province, Thailand, for delivery from November 2009 to May 2010. The women were tested for chikungunya (CHIK) IgM/IgG and dengue (DEN) IgM/IgG. Cord blood samples were also tested for CHIK IgM or DEN IgM in women who tested positive for CHIK IgM or DEN IgM, respectively. The seroprevalence of CHIKV infection (CHIK IgM or IgG positive) was 227/319 (71·2%) with pre-outbreak seroprevalence (IgM−/IgG+) of 43·6% and the seroprevalence of DENV infection was 288/319 (90·3%). Complications during pregnancy, newborn outcomes and congenital anomalies were not different in those who had recent, remote or no CHIKV infections. None of the newborns whose mothers were CHIK or DEN IgM positive had cord blood positive for both CHIK and DEN IgM. In conclusion, both CHIKV and DENV are endemic in southern Thailand; during the recent CHIKV outbreak CHIK seroprevalence increased from 43·6% to 71·2%.
New records of sea anemones (Cnidaria, Anthozoa, Actiniaria) in the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: González-Muñoz Ricardo , Simões Nuno , Tello-Musi José Luis , Sánchez-Rodríguez Judith , Rodríguez Estefanía
Published: June 2015

The speciesHomostichanthus duerdeniandAnemonia sargassensisare recorded for the first time in the Mexican Caribbean.Homostichanthus duerdeniis taxonomically diagnosed, and images from living specimens, including external and internal features and cnidae, are provided. The extension of the geographical distribution range ofA. sargassensisis discussed, as well as the taxonomic status of the previous records of actiniarians in the Mexican Caribbean. An updated list of sea anemones in the region is provided, comprising 15 species in 11 localities along the Mexican Caribbean.
New host records for Bathypalaemonella serratipalma (Caridea: Bathypalaemonellidae) in the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Wicksten Mary K. , Heathman Tommy
Published: June 2015

The caridean shrimpBathypalaemonella serratipalmawas photographed by a remotely operated vehicle at 1120–2223 m in the northern Gulf of Mexico. The shrimp was living on previously unreported host cnidarians of the families Isididae and Alcyoniidae, and a black coral (Antipatharia), as well as previously reported gorgonian hosts (ChrysogorgiaandIridogorgiaspp.). We did not observe interactions betweenB. serratipalmaand other invertebrates living on these hosts, nor did the shrimp occur on the same host cnidarians as the anomuransUroptychus nitidusorEumunida picta.
Dual-frequency phase shifter deploying complementary split-ring resonator
Authors: Kulandhaisamy Indhumathi , Rajendran Dinesh Babu , Kanagasabai Malathi , Moorthy Balaji , George Jithila V. , Lawrance Livya
Published: June 2015

Phase shifters are indispensable microwave components. In this paper, a dual-frequency, passive, analog, and reciprocal phase shifter is proposed, deploying the phase-delay characteristics of complementary split-ring resonator (CSRR). A transmission line is loaded with a pair of CSRR in the ground plane and the phase variations are compared with an ideal transmission line. The proposed phase shifter operates in the industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) and wireless local area network (WLAN) bands, providing a phase of 180° at 2.4 GHz and 90° at 5.4 GHz for beam steering applications.
„Ausserhalb der Mauern“ – Für eine neue Geschichte der Irrenanstalten in der Moderne
Authors: Fauvel Aude
Published: June 2015

Zusammenfassung. Wenn wir an Medizin, Wahnsinn und die Vergangenheit denken, so taucht unmittelbar ein Bild vor unseren Augen auf: dasjenige der Irrenanstalt. In der Nachfolge von Michel Foucaults berühmtem Buch Wahnsinn und Gesellschaft: Eine Geschichte des Wahns im Zeitalter der Vernunft haben viele Historiker angenommen, dass die Medikalisierung der Geisteskrankheit in der Moderne zu einem „grossen Einsperren“ geführt hat und zu einer verstärkten Absonderung aller angeblich geistig Untauglichen im „Zeitalter der Irrenanstalt“. Neuere Forschungen zeigen aber, dass diese klassische Erzählung der Psychiatrie-Geschichte revidiert werden sollte. Sie zeigt, dass es seit dem 19. Jahrhundert eine ganz andere medizinische Kultur gab, die die Irrenanstalt anzweifelte. Sie befürwortete die Integration der Wahnsinnigen und setzte sich dafür ein, dass sich die Psychiatrie vom dominierenden Modell der Internierung im ganzen Westen loslöste. Dieser Beitrag will die Resultate dieser historischen Arbeiten präsentieren und einen anderen Aspekt der Psychiatrie-Geschichte zeigen, nämlich die Praktiken des „boarding out“ anstelle derjenigen der Irrenanstalt.
Peptische Ulzera und Helicobacter pylori: Wie wir wissen, was wir wissen
Authors: Scholl Raphael
Published: June 2015

Zusammenfassung. Zu den wichtigsten Ursachen peptischer Ulzera gehört das Bakterium Helicobacter pylori. Aber wie wurde dieser ursächliche Zusammenhang nachgewiesen? Aufschluss darüber gibt die Geschichte und Theorie einer Reihe einschlägiger Studien, die in den 1980er Jahren durchgeführt wurden. Am Anfang stand die Entdeckung einer blossen Korrelation zwischen dem neu entdeckten Bakterium und peptischen Ulzera in Magenbiopsien. Unklar blieb, ob das Bakterium die Krankheit verursachte, oder ob es bloss eine opportunistische bakterielle Besiedlung darstellte. Ohne Tiermodell war der experimentelle Nachweis der Richtung der Verursachung jedoch schwierig: Zwar wurde in einem couragierten Selbstversuch mit einer geschluckten Bakterienkultur eine Gastritis beobachtet – aber der Einzelfall war wenig aussagekräftig. Die Schwächen des Selbstversuchs liessen sich durch eine randomisierte, Plazebo-kontrollierte Studie beheben, die den Anforderungen des dritten Koch’schen Postulats gerecht wurde. Darüber hinaus war es notwendig, erste Aufschlüsse über den Mechanismus der ursächlichen Verbindung zwischen H. pylori und peptischen Ulzera zu gewinnen: Wie zum Beispiel kann das Bakterium im sauren Milieu des Magens überleben? Die wissenschaftshistorische und wissenschaftstheoretische Betrachtung des Falls illustriert, wie medizinisches Wissen schrittweise aufgebaut wird.
Using Binding Communication to Promote Conservation Among Hotel Guests
Authors: Terrier Lohyd , Marfaing Benedicte
Published: June 2015

This research applies the binding communication model to the sustainable communication strategies implemented in most hotels. The binding communication model links a persuasive message with the implementation of a low-cost commitment to strengthen the link between the attitudes and behavior of those receiving the message. We compared the effectiveness of a classical communication strategy (n = 86) with that of a binding communication strategy (n = 101) to encourage guests to choose sustainable behavior. Our results show that using the binding communication strategy generates significantly more sustainable behavior in guests than using the classical communication strategy. We discuss our results and suggest future avenues of research.
Reality Check: Seismic Hazard Models You Can Trust
Authors: Kossobokov Vladimir , Peresan Antonella , Panza Giuliano
Published: June 2015

Probabilistic hazard assessments, even the most recent models, routinely underestimate earthquake effects. A neodeterministic approach comes closer to observed data.
Long-term outcomes of phakic patients with diabetic macular oedema treated with intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide (FAc) implants
Authors:   on behalf of the FAME study group, Yang Y , Bailey C , Holz F G , Eter N , Weber M , Baker C , Kiss S , Menchini U , Ruiz Moreno J M , Dugel P , Lotery A
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) is a leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Slow-release, nonbioerodible fluocinolone acetonide (FAc) implants have shown efficacy in the treatment of DMO; however, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends that FAc should be used in patients with chronic DMO considered insufficiently responsive to other available therapies only if the eye to be treated is pseudophakic. The goal of this analysis was to examine treatment outcomes in phakic patients who received 0.2 μg/day FAc implant.

Methods

This analysis of the phase 3 FAME (Fluocinolone Acetonide in Diabetic Macular Edema) data examines the safety and efficacy of FAc implants in patients who underwent cataract extraction before (cataract before implant (CBI) group) or after (cataract after implant (CAI) group) receiving the implant. The data were further examined by DMO duration.

Results

Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after 36 months was comparable in the CAI and CBI groups. Both the percentage of patients gaining ≥3 lines of vision and mean change in BCVA letter score were numerically greater in the CAI group. In addition, most patients who underwent cataract surgery experienced a net gain in BCVA from presurgery baseline as well as from original study baseline.

Conclusions

These data support the use of 0.2 μg/day FAc implants in phakic as well as in pseudophakic patients. These findings will serve as a pilot for design of future studies to evaluate the potential protective effect of FAc implants before cataract surgery in patients with DMO and cataract.
Hyperbolic phonon-polaritons in boron nitride for near-field optical imaging and focusing
Authors: Li Peining , Lewin Martin , Kretinin Andrey V. , Caldwell Joshua D. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Gaussmann Fabian , Taubner Thomas
Published: June 2015

Hyperbolic materials exhibit sub-diffractional, highly directional, volume-confined polariton modes. Here we report that hyperbolic phonon polaritons allow for a flat slab of hexagonal boron nitride to enable exciting near-field optical applications, including unusual imaging phenomenon (such as an enlarged reconstruction of investigated objects) and sub-diffractional focusing. Both the enlarged imaging and the super-resolution focusing are explained based on the volume-confined, wavelength dependent propagation angle of hyperbolic phonon polaritons. With advanced infrared nanoimaging techniques and state-of-art mid-infrared laser sources, we have succeeded in demonstrating and visualizing these unexpected phenomena in both Type I and Type II hyperbolic conditions, with both occurring naturally within hexagonal boron nitride. These efforts have provided a full and intuitive physical picture for the understanding of the role of hyperbolic phonon polaritons in near-field optical imaging, guiding, and focusing applications.
Structure and gating of the nuclear pore complex
Authors: Eibauer Matthias , Pellanda Mauro , Turgay Yagmur , Dubrovsky Anna , Wild Annik , Medalia Ohad
Published: June 2015

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) perforate the nuclear envelope and allow the exchange of macromolecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. To acquire a deeper understanding of this transport mechanism, we analyse the structure of the NPC scaffold and permeability barrier, by reconstructing the Xenopus laevis oocyte NPC from native nuclear envelopes up to 20 Å resolution by cryo-electron tomography in conjunction with subtomogram averaging. In addition to resolving individual protein domains of the NPC constituents, we propose a model for the architecture of the molecular gate at its central channel. Furthermore, we compare and contrast this native NPC structure to one that exhibits reduced transport activity and unveil the spatial properties of the NPC gate.
Anti-atherosclerotic effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) based therapies in patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A meta-analysis
Authors: Song Xiaoyan , Jia Hetang , Jiang Yuebo , Wang Liang , Zhang Yan , Mu Yiming , Liu Yu
Published: June 2015

This study assessed the effect of GLP-1 based therapies on atherosclerotic markers in type 2 diabetes patients. 31 studies were selected to obtain data after multiple database searches and following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Age and BMI of the participants of longitudinal studies were 59.8 ± 8.3 years and 29.2 ± 5.7 kg/m2 (Mean±SD). Average duration of GLP-1 based therapies was 20.5 weeks. Percent flow-mediated diameter (%FMD) did not change from baseline significantly but when compared to controls, %FMD increased non-significantly following GLP-1-based therapies (1.65 [−0.89, 4.18]; P = 0.2; REM) in longitudinal studies and increased significantly in cross sectional studies (2.58 [1.68, 3.53]; P < 0.00001). Intima media thickness decreased statistically non-significantly by the GLP-1 based therapies. GLP-1 based therapies led to statistically significant reductions in the serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide (−40.16 [−51.50, −28.81]; P < 0.0001; REM), high sensitivity c-reactive protein (−0.27 [−0.48, −0.07]; P = 0.009), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (−12.90 [−25.98, 0.18]; P=0.05), total cholesterol (−5.47 [−9.55, −1.39]; P = 0.009), LDL-cholesterol (−3.70 [−7.39, −0.00]; P = 0.05) and triglycerides (−16.44 [−25.64, −7.23]; P = 0.0005) when mean differences with 95% CI in the changes from baselines were meta-analyzed. In conclusion, GLP-1-based therapies appear to provide beneficial effects against atherosclerosis. More randomized data will be required to arrive at conclusive evidence.
A Family History of Lethal Prostate Cancer and Risk of Aggressive Prostate Cancer in Patients Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Raheem Omer A. , Cohen Seth A. , Parsons J. Kellogg , Palazzi Kerrin L. , Kane Christopher J.
Published: June 2015

We investigated whether a family history of lethal prostate cancer (PCa) was associated with high-risk disease or biochemical recurrence in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy. A cohort of radical prostatectomy patients was stratified into men with no family history of PCa (NFH); a first-degree relative with PCa (FH); and those with a first-degree relative who had died of PCa (FHD). Demographic, operative and pathologic outcomes were analyzed. Freedom from biochemical recurrence was examined using Kaplan-Meier log rank. A multivariate Cox logistic regression analysis was also performed. We analyzed 471 men who underwent radical prostatectomy at our institution with known family history. The three groups had: 355 patients (75%) in NFH; 97 patients (21%) in FH; and 19 patients (4%) in FHD. The prevalence of a Gleason score ≥8, higher pathologic T stage and biochemical recurrence (BCR) rates did not significantly differ between groups. On Kaplan-Meier analysis there were no differences in short-term BCR rates (p = 0.212). In this cohort of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy, those with first-degree relatives who died of PCa did not have an increased likelihood of high-risk or aggressive PCa or shorter-term risk of BCR than those who did not.
Extrinsic Origin of Persistent Photoconductivity in Monolayer MoS2 Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Wu Yueh-Chun , Liu Cheng-Hua , Chen Shao-Yu , Shih Fu-Yu , Ho Po-Hsun , Chen Chun-Wei , Liang Chi-Te , Wang Wei-Hua
Published: June 2015

Recent discoveries of the photoresponse of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) have shown the considerable potential of these two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides for optoelectronic applications. Among the various types of photoresponses of MoS2, persistent photoconductivity (PPC) at different levels has been reported. However, a detailed study of the PPC effect and its mechanism in MoS2 is still not available, despite the importance of this effect on the photoresponse of the material. Here, we present a systematic study of the PPC effect in monolayer MoS2 and conclude that the effect can be attributed to random localized potential fluctuations in the devices. Notably, the potential fluctuations originate from extrinsic sources based on the substrate effect of the PPC. Moreover, we point out a correlation between the PPC effect in MoS2 and the percolation transport behavior of MoS2. We demonstrate a unique and efficient means of controlling the PPC effect in monolayer MoS2, which may offer novel functionalities for MoS2-based optoelectronic applications in the future.
High thermopower of mechanically stretched single-molecule junctions
Authors: Tsutsui Makusu , Morikawa Takanori , He Yuhui , Arima Akihide , Taniguchi Masateru
Published: June 2015

Metal-molecule-metal junction is a promising candidate for thermoelectric applications that utilizes quantum confinement effects in the chemically defined zero-dimensional atomic structure to achieve enhanced dimensionless figure of merit ZT. A key issue in this new class of thermoelectric nanomaterials is to clarify the sensitivity of thermoelectricity on the molecular junction configurations. Here we report simultaneous measurements of the thermoelectric voltage and conductance on Au-1,4-benzenedithiol (BDT)-Au junctions mechanically-stretched in-situ at sub-nanoscale. We obtained the average single-molecule conductance and thermopower of 0.01 G0 and 15 μV/K, respectively, suggesting charge transport through the highest occupied molecular orbital. Meanwhile, we found the single-molecule thermoelectric transport properties extremely-sensitive to the BDT bridge configurations, whereby manifesting the importance to design the electrode-molecule contact motifs for optimizing the thermoelectric performance of molecular junctions.
Tuning the Electronic Structure of Anatase Through Fluorination
Authors: Corradini Dario , Dambournet Damien , Salanne Mathieu
Published: June 2015

A highly fluorinated anatase lattice has been recently reported, providing a new class of materials whose general chemical formula is Ti1−x□xX4xO2−4x (X− = F− or OH−). To characterise the complex structural features of the material and the different F environments, we here apply a computational screening procedure. After deriving a polarisable force—field from DFT simulations, we screen in a step-wise fashion a large number of possible configurations differing in the positioning of the titanium vacancies (□) and of the fluorine atoms. At each step only 10% of the configurations are retained. At the end of the screening procedure, a configuration is selected and simulated using DFT-based molecular dynamics. This allows us to analyse the atomic structure of the material, which is strongly disordered, leading to a strong decrease (by 0.8 eV) of the band gap compared to conventional anatase.
Structural and Physical Basis for Anti-IgE Therapy
Authors: Wright Jon D. , Chu Hsing-Mao , Huang Chun-Hsiang , Ma Che , Wen Chang Tse , Lim Carmay
Published: June 2015

Omalizumab, an anti-IgE antibody, used to treat severe allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria, binds to IgE in blood or membrane-bound on B lymphocytes but not to IgE bound to its high (FcεRI) or low (CD23) affinity receptor. Mutagenesis studies indicate overlapping FcεRI and omalizumab-binding sites in the Cε3 domain, but crystallographic studies show FcεRI and CD23-binding sites that are far apart, so how can omalizumab block IgE from binding both receptors? We report a 2.42-Å omalizumab-Fab structure, a docked IgE-Fc/omalizumab-Fab structure consistent with available experimental data and the free energy contributions of IgE residues to binding omalizumab, CD23 and FcεRI. These results provide a structural and physical basis as to why omalizumab cannot bind receptor-bound IgE and why omalizumab-bound IgE cannot bind to CD23/FcεRI. They reveal the key IgE residues and their roles in binding omalizumab, CD23 and FcεRI.
Ion transport through electrolyte/polyelectrolyte multi-layers
Authors: Femmer Robert , Mani Ali , Wessling Matthias
Published: June 2015

Ion transport of multi-ionic solutions through layered electrolyte and polyelectrolyte structures are relevant in a large variety of technical systems such as micro and nanofluidic devices, sensors, batteries and large desalination process systems. We report a new direct numerical simulation model coined EnPEn: it allows to solve a set of first principle equations to predict for multiple ions their concentration and electrical potential profiles in electro-chemically complex architectures of n layered electrolytes E and n polyelectrolytes PE. EnPEn can robustly capture ion transport in sub-millimeter architectures with submicron polyelectrolyte layers. We proof the strength of EnPEn for three yet unsolved architectures: (a) selective Na over Ca transport in surface modified ion selective membranes, (b) ion transport and water splitting in bipolar membranes and (c) transport of weak electrolytes.
Repurposing ebselen for treatment of multidrug-resistant staphylococcal infections
Authors: Thangamani Shankar , Younis Waleed , Seleem Mohamed N.
Published: June 2015

Novel antimicrobials and new approaches to developing them are urgently needed. Repurposing already-approved drugs with well-characterized toxicology and pharmacology is a novel way to reduce the time, cost and risk associated with antibiotic innovation. Ebselen, an organoselenium compound, is known to be clinically safe and has a well-known pharmacology profile. It has shown potent bactericidal activity against multidrug-resistant clinical isolates of staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin- and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA and VRSA). We demonstrated that ebselen acts through inhibition of protein synthesis and subsequently inhibited toxin production in MRSA. Additionally, ebselen was remarkably active and significantly reduced established staphylococcal biofilms. The therapeutic efficacy of ebselen was evaluated in a mouse model of staphylococcal skin infections. Ebselen 1% and 2% significantly reduced the bacterial load and the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and monocyte chemo attractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in MRSA USA300 skin lesions. Furthermore, it acts synergistically with traditional antimicrobials. This study provides evidence that ebselen has great potential for topical treatment of MRSA skin infections and lays the foundation for further analysis and development of ebselen as a potential treatment for multidrug-resistant staphylococcal infections.
Single-copy gene based 50 K SNP chip for genetic studies and molecular breeding in rice
Authors: Singh Nisha , Jayaswal Pawan Kumar , Panda Kabita , Mandal Paritra , Kumar Vinod , Singh Balwant , Mishra Shefali , Singh Yashi , Singh Renu , Rai Vandna , Gupta Anita , Raj Sharma Tilak , Singh Nagendra Kumar
Published: June 2015

Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is the most abundant DNA sequence variation present in plant genomes. Here, we report the design and validation of a unique genic-SNP genotyping chip for genetic and evolutionary studies as well as molecular breeding applications in rice. The chip incorporates 50,051 SNPs from 18,980 different genes spanning 12 rice chromosomes, including 3,710 single-copy (SC) genes conserved between wheat and rice, 14,959 SC genes unique to rice, 194 agronomically important cloned rice genes and 117 multi-copy rice genes. Assays with this chip showed high success rate and reproducibility because of the SC gene based array with no sequence redundancy and cross-hybridisation problems. The usefulness of the chip in genetic diversity and phylogenetic studies of cultivated and wild rice germplasm was demonstrated. Furthermore, its efficacy was validated for analysing background recovery in improved mega rice varieties with submergence tolerance developed through marker-assisted backcross breeding.
MiR-19a regulates PTEN expression to mediate glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes
Authors: Dou Lin , Meng Xiangyu , Sui Xiaofang , Wang Shuyue , Shen Tao , Huang Xiuqing , Guo Jun , Fang Weiwei , Man Yong , Xi Jianzhong , Li Jian
Published: June 2015

MiR-19a, a member of mir-17-92 microRNA clusters, has been demonstrated to promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis via regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway, the major insulin signaling pathway. However, whether miR-19a plays an important role in glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes remains unknown. Here, we define the impact of miR-19a on glycogen synthesis and IL-6-induced reduced glycogenesis in hepatocytes and its underlying mechanisms. Our studies indicate that miR-19a was down-regulated in the livers of db/db mice and mice injected with IL-6, as well as mouse NCTC 1469 hepatocytes and HEP 1–6 hepatocytes treated by IL-6. We found that over-expression of miR-19a in NCTC 1469 cells and HEP 1–6 cells led to increased activation of the AKT/GSK pathway and synthesis of glycogen, whereas down-regulation of miR-19a impaired AKT/GSK phosphorylation and glycogenesis. Over-expression of miR-19a ameliorated IL-6-induced reduced glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes. Moreover, we identified PTEN as the target of miR-19a by a luciferase assay. Down-regulation of PTEN rescued the effects of miR-19a suppression on the activation of the AKT/GSK pathway and improved glycogenesis in NTC 1469 cells. These findings show for the first time that miR-19a might activate the AKT/GSK pathway and glycogenesis via down-regulation of PTEN expression.
Insulin-like factor regulates neural induction through an IGF1 receptor-independent mechanism
Authors: Haramoto Yoshikazu , Takahashi Shuji , Oshima Tomomi , Onuma Yasuko , Ito Yuzuru , Asashima Makoto
Published: June 2015

Insulin receptor (IR) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) signalling is required for normal embryonic growth and development. Previous reports indicated that the IGF/IGF1R/MAPK pathway contributes to neural induction and the IGF/IGF1R/PI3K/Akt pathway to eye development. Here, we report the isolation of insulin3 encoding a novel insulin-like ligand involved in neural induction. Insulin3 has a similar structure to pro-insulin and mature IGF ligands, but cannot activate the IGF1 receptor. However, similar to IGFs, Insulin3 induced the gene expression of an anterior neural marker, otx2 and enlarged anterior head structures by inhibiting Wnt signalling. Insulin3 are predominantly localised to the endoplasmic reticulum when otx2 is induced by insulin3. Insulin3 reduced extracellular Wnts and cell surface localised Lrp6. These results suggest that Insulin3 is a novel cell-autonomous inhibitor of Wnt signalling. This study provides the first evidence that an insulin-like factor regulates neural induction through an IGF1R-independent mechanism.
Impacts of propagating, frustrated and surface modes on radiative, electrical and thermal losses in nanoscale-gap thermophotovoltaic power generators
Authors: Bernardi Michael P. , Dupré Olivier , Blandre Etienne , Chapuis Pierre-Olivier , Vaillon Rodolphe , Francoeur Mathieu
Published: June 2015

The impacts of radiative, electrical and thermal losses on the performances of nanoscale-gap thermophotovoltaic (nano-TPV) power generators consisting of a gallium antimonide cell paired with a broadband tungsten and a radiatively-optimized Drude radiator are analyzed. Results reveal that surface mode mediated nano-TPV power generation with the Drude radiator outperforms the tungsten radiator, dominated by frustrated modes, only for a vacuum gap thickness of 10 nm and if both electrical and thermal losses are neglected. The key limiting factors for the Drude- and tungsten-based devices are respectively the recombination of electron-hole pairs at the cell surface and thermalization of radiation with energy larger than the cell absorption bandgap. A design guideline is also proposed where a high energy cutoff above which radiation has a net negative effect on nano-TPV power output due to thermal losses is determined. It is shown that the power output of a tungsten-based device increases by 6.5% while the cell temperature decreases by 30 K when applying a high energy cutoff at 1.45 eV. This work demonstrates that design and optimization of nano-TPV devices must account for radiative, electrical and thermal losses.
Preparation of Graphene-Modified Acupuncture Needle and Its Application in Detecting Neurotransmitters
Authors: Tang Lina , Du Danxin , Yang Fan , Liang Zhong , Ning Yong , Wang Hua , Zhang Guo-Jun
Published: June 2015

We report a unique nanosensing platform by combining modern nanotechnology with traditional acupuncture needle to prepare graphene-modified acupuncture needle (G-AN) and using it for sensitive detection of neurotransmitters via electrochemistry. An electrochemical deposition method was employed to deposit Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) on the tip surface of the traditional acupuncture needle, while the other part of the needle was coated with insulation paste. Subsequently, the G-AN was obtained by cyclic voltammetry reduction of a graphene oxide solution on the surface of the AuNPs. To investigate the sensing property of the G-AN, pH dependence was measured by recording the open circuit potential in the various pH buffer solutions ranging from 2.0 to 10.0. What’s more, the G-AN was further used for detection of dopamine (DA) with a limit of detection of 0.24 μM. This novel G-AN exhibited a good sensitivity and selectivity and could realize direct detection of DA in human serum.