bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigid External Distraction with Intranasal Bone-borne Traction Hooks for Midfacial Hypoplasia
Authors: Zheng Yilue , Tong Haizhou , Yin Ningbei , Niu Feng , Zhao Zhenmin , Song Tao
Published: June 2018

Rigid external distraction is currently performed to correct cases of severe maxillary hypoplasia. As an improvement of this technique, we propose the use of an intranasal bone-borne traction hook. This study is a retrospective chart review of the intranasal bone-borne traction hooks used in the treatment of severe maxillary hypoplasia. There were 110 patients treated with the hooks from 2005 to 2017. The maximum traction force was 7.75 kg, and there were few complications encountered during distraction. There were 76 patients who had the hooks removed under local anaesthesia. A cephalometric analysis was conducted in 56 patients. The average advancement of A-point was 9.9 ± 4.2 mm, 8.4 ± 2.5 mm, 11.0 ± 3.7 mm, 17.9 ± 4.4 mm for the trans-sutural distraction osteogenesis (DO), maxillary anterior segment DO, Le Fort I osteotomy DO and Le Fort III/II osteotomy DO, respectively. The average changes of sella-nasion-point A (SNA) were 8.89 ± 4.30 degrees, 8.21 ± 3.17 degrees, 10.49 ± 3.26 degrees, and 15.10 ± 4.00 degrees, respectively. The A point-nasion-B point (ANB) also showed increases in all procedures with P < 0.001. In conclusion, this technique sufficiently advances the midface and ensures the scars are concealed in the nasal base. The traction hook can bear a large traction force, causes minimal complications and is easily removed.
Inductively actuated micro needles for on-demand intracellular delivery
Authors: Kavaldzhiev Mincho N. , Perez Jose E. , Sougrat Rachid , Bergam Ptissam , Ravasi Timothy , Kosel Jürgen
Published: June 2018

Methods that provide controlled influx of molecules into cells are of critical importance for uncovering cellular mechanisms, drug development and synthetic biology. However, reliable intracellular delivery without adversely affecting the cells is a major challenge. We developed a platform for on-demand intracellular delivery applications, with which cell membrane penetration is achieved by inductive heating of micro needles. The micro needles of around 1 μm in diameter and 5 μm in length are made of gold using a silicon-based micro fabrication process that provides flexibility with respect to the needles’ dimensions, pitch, shell thickness and the covered area. Experiments with HCT 116 colon cancer cells showed a high biocompatibility of the gold needle platform. Transmission electron microscopy of the cell-needle interface revealed folding of the cell membrane around the needle without penetration, preventing any delivery, which was confirmed using the EthD-1 fluorescent dye. The application of an alternating magnetic field, however, resulted in the delivery of EthD-1 by localized heating of the micro needles. Fluorescence quantification showed that intracellular delivery, with as high as 75% efficiency, is achieved for specific treatment times between 1 and 5 minutes. Overexposure of the cells to the heated micro needles, i.e. longer magnetic field application, leads to an increase in cell death, which can be exploited for cleaning the platform. This method allows to perform intracellular deliver by remotely activating the micro needles via a magnetic field, and it is controlled by the application time, making it a versatile and easy to use method. The wireless actuation could also be an attractive feature for in-vivo delivery and implantable devices.
Ultraviolet Hyperspectral Interferometric Microscopy
Authors: Ojaghi Ashkan , Fay Meredith E. , Lam Wilbur A. , Robles Francisco E.
Published: June 2018

Ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for quantitative (bio)chemical analysis, but its application to molecular imaging and microscopy has been limited. Here we introduce ultraviolet hyperspectral interferometric (UHI) microscopy, which leverages coherent detection of optical fields to overcome significant challenges associated with UV spectroscopy when applied to molecular imaging. We demonstrate that this method enables quantitative spectral analysis of important endogenous biomolecules with subcellular spatial resolution and sensitivity to nanometer-scaled structures for label-free molecular imaging of live cells.
Myoepithelial cell-driven acini contraction in response to oxytocin receptor stimulation is impaired in lacrimal glands of Sjögren’s syndrome animal models
Authors: Hawley Dillon , Tang Xin , Zyrianova Tatiana , Shah Mihir , Janga Srikanth , Letourneau Alexandra , Schicht Martin , Paulsen Friedrich , Hamm-Alvarez Sarah , Makarenkova Helen P. , Zoukhri Driss
Published: June 2018

The purpose of the present studies was to investigate the impact of chronic inflammation of the lacrimal gland, as occurs in Sjögren’s syndrome, on the morphology and function of myoepithelial cells (MECs). In spite of the importance of MECs for lacrimal gland function, the effect of inflammation on MECs has not been well defined. We studied changes in MEC structure and function in two animal models of aqueous deficient dry eye, NOD and MRL/lpr mice. We found a statistically significant reduction in the size of MECs in diseased compared to control lacrimal glands. We also found that oxytocin receptor was highly expressed in MECs of mouse and human lacrimal glands and that its expression was strongly reduced in diseased glands. Furthermore, we found a significant decrease in the amount of two MEC contractile proteins, α-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and calponin. Finally, oxytocin-mediated contraction was impaired in lacrimal gland acini from diseased glands. We conclude that chronic inflammation of the lacrimal gland leads to a substantial thinning of MECs, down-regulation of contractile proteins and oxytocin receptor expression, and therefore impaired acini contraction. This is the first study highlighting the role of oxytocin mediated MEC contraction on lacrimal gland function.
MicroRNAs distribution in different phenotypes of Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Fabiani Iacopo , Pugliese Nicola Riccardo , Calogero Enrico , Conte Lorenzo , Mazzanti Maria Chiara , Scatena Cristian , Scopelliti Claudia , Tantillo Elena , Passiatore Matteo , Angelillis Marco , Naccarato Giuseppe Antonio , Di Stefano Rossella , Petronio Anna Sonia , Di Bello Vitantonio
Published: June 2018

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) represents a cluster of different phenotypes, considering gradient and flow pattern. Circulating micro RNAs may reflect specific pathophysiological processes and could be useful biomarkers to identify disease. We assessed 80 patients (81, 76.7–84 years; 46, 57.5%females) with severe AVS. We performed bio-humoral evaluation (including circulating miRNA-1, 21, 29, 133) and 2D-echocardiography. Patients were classified according to ACC/AHA groups (D1-D3) and flow-gradient classification, considering normal/low flow, (NF/LF) and normal/high gradient, (NG/HG). Patients with reduced ejection fractionwere characterized by higher levels of miRNA1 (p = 0.003) and miRNA 133 (p = 0.03). LF condition was associated with higher levels of miRNA1 (p = 0.02) and miRNA21 (p = 0.02). Levels of miRNA21 were increased in patients with reduced Global longitudinal strain (p = 0.03). LF-HG and LF-LG showed higher levels of miRNA1 expression (p = 0.005). At one-year follow-up miRNA21 and miRNA29 levels resulted significant independent predictors of reverse remodeling and systolic function increase, respectively. Different phenotypes of AVS may express differential levels and types of miRNAs, which may retain a pathophysiological role in pro-hypertrophic and pro-fibrotic processes.
Sex-specific regional grey matter volume correlates of daily activities
Authors: Ueno Tsukasa , Oishi Naoya , Murai Toshiya
Published: June 2018

The human brain is plastic and continuously modified throughout life by our daily experiences and behaviours. However, no reports have comprehensively investigated structural brain correlates of our daily activities, including possible sex differences. In this study, we examined the relationship between a self-reported 24-hour Life-Log and regional brain volume measured by structural magnetic resonance imaging. We analysed brain volumes of 64 males and 53 females that were obtained from multiple scanning sites. We found several sex-specific correlations, including a positive correlation between superior frontal gyrus (Brodmann area 8) volume and domestic work hours, and a negative correlation between volume in the same region and job-work hours. Despite being a cross-sectional study, this study provides empirical evidence for how and to what extent brain structure is correlated with everyday activity.
Prevalence of severe-profound hearing loss in South Korea: a nationwide population-based study to analyse a 10-year trend (2006–2015)
Authors: Im Gi Jung , Ahn Joong Ho , Lee Jun Ho , do Han Kyung , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Jin-Sook , Jang Hyunsook , Chung Jong Woo
Published: June 2018

To estimate prevalence of severe-profound hearing loss (HL) in South Korea, and analyse a 10-year trend of HL according to age, sex, and region by using a nationwide population-based database. Retrospective review from Korean National Health Insurance Service from 2006 to 2015. The degree of severe-profound HL was classified into six grades, based mostly on HL worse than 60 dB HL for both ears. Absolute number of HL was the highest in 2011 (0.25 million; males, 0.14 million; females, 0.11 million); it decreased gradually until 2015. Total HL prevalence was the highest in 2010 (0.5%; 251,954), and decreased annually to 2015 (0.46%; 237,272). The trend of HL prevalence showed a gradual decrease from 2010 to 2015. Prevalence of severe-profound HL was always higher in the male population (1.19 times higher than female in 2015). Prevalence of HL was higher in rural areas than in urban areas (1.4 times higher in 2015). Number of severe-profound HL in South Korea decreased gradually in all age groups annually, even though some older age groups had the highest peak in 2010–2011. Prevalence of severe-profound HL decreases gradually in all age groups annually in South Korea, although the absolute number of HL cases increases rapidly among those aged over 80 years.
A Nearctic-Neotropical Migratory Songbird’s Nesting Phenology and Clutch Size are Predictors of Accumulated Cyclone Energy
Authors: Heckscher Christopher M.
Published: June 2018

The breeding season phenology of Nearctic-Neotropical migratory songbirds is constrained by subsequent seasons resulting in single-brooded behavior (one successful clutch per year) in some species. Early cessation of the nesting season prior to an active hurricane season will allow for behavioral plasticity during a physiologically challenging migration. Hurricane activity shows a high degree of inter-annual variability. I show that a single-brooded Nearctic-breeding species’ (Catharus fuscescens) nesting phenology and clutch size are significant predictors of Accumulated Cyclone Energy. The most skilled predictive model includes both mean clutch initiation date and mean clutch size (R2 = 0.84). Spearman rank correlation coefficients for both predictors with subsequent major hurricanes (1998–2016) are −0.55 and 0.52, respectively. Therefore, May and June clutch initiation and clutch size showed stronger correlations with subsequent hurricanes than early season (prior to August) meteorological predictions widely publicized by CSU, NOAA, and TSR (≤0.45, 2003–2014). Rainfall anomalies in the southern Amazon basin associated with ENSO cycles are a possible proximate cue affecting phenology and clutch size. This discovery potentially has far-reaching ornithological, meteorological, and social implications and shows that tropical storms significantly constrain breeding season behavior providing renewed evidence that hurricane activity is a primary factor regulating Nearctic-Neotropical migratory songbird populations.
Post-ERCP biliary complications in patients with biliary type sphincter of Oddi dysfunction
Authors: Miyatani Hiroyuki , Mashima Hirosato , Sekine Masanari , Matsumoto Satohiro
Published: June 2018

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) has a high risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis. Cholangitis, colicky pain, and jaundice from cholestasis also occur after ERCP. However, these post-ERCP biliary complications have not been sufficiently evaluated in SOD. Thus, the risk factors and post-ERCP biliary complications in biliary-type SOD were evaluated. From December 1996 to January 2017, 72 patients with suspected biliary-type SOD were selected, and 60 patients who underwent ERCP were included in this study. The incidence of biliary complications compared to control group and factors associated with post-ERCP cholangitis were investigated. More frequent biliary complications, including biliary pain and abnormal liver function, occurred in SOD group than in control group, especially in type I SOD patients. Post-ERCP cholangitis occurred significantly more often with bile duct diameter ≥12 mm (26%, 5/19) than with bile duct diameter <11 mm (2.4%, 1/41; p = 0.016). Age ≥75 years was also a risk factor for post-ERCP cholangitis (p = 0.013). Multivariate analysis confirmed that bile duct diameter ≥12 mm was a significant risk factor for post-ERCP cholangitis. Post-ERCP biliary complications occurred frequently in biliary-type SOD, especially type I. Biliary diameter ≥12 mm was an important risk factor for post-ERCP cholangitis.
Sensitivity to sounds in sport-related concussed athletes: a new clinical presentation of hyperacusis
Authors: Assi Hussein , Moore R. Davis , Ellemberg Dave , Hébert Sylvie
Published: June 2018

Sensitivity to sounds is one frequent symptom of a sport-related concussion, but its assessment rarely goes beyond a single question. Here we examined sensitivity to sounds using psychoacoustic and psychometric outcomes in athletes beyond the acute phase of injury. Fifty-eight college athletes with normal hearing who either had incurred one or more sport-related concussions (N = 28) or who had never suffered head injury (N = 30) participated. Results indicated that the Concussed group scored higher on the Hyperacusis questionnaire and displayed greater sensitivity to sounds in psychoacoustic tasks compared to the Control group. However, further analyses that separated the Concussed group in subgroups with Sound sensitivity symptom (N = 14) and Without sound sensitivity symptom (N = 14) revealed that athletes with the sound complaint were the ones responsible for the effect: Concussed athletes with self-reported sound sensitivity had lower Loudness Discomfort Thresholds (LDLs), higher Depression and Hyperacusis scores, and shifted loudness growth functions compared to the other subgroup. A simple mediation model disclosed that LDLs exert their influence both directly on Hyperacusis scores as well as indirectly via depressive symptoms. We thus report a new clinical presentation of hyperacusis and discuss possible mechanisms by which it could arise from concussion.
Baclofen acts in the central amygdala to reduce synaptic transmission and impair context fear conditioning
Authors: Delaney A. J. , Crane J. W. , Holmes N. M. , Fam J. , Westbrook R. F.
Published: June 2018

The two main sub-divisions of the Central amygdala (CeA), the lateral-capsular (CeA-LC) and the medial (CeA-M), contain extensive networks of inhibitory interneurons. We have previously shown that activation of GABAB-receptors reduces excitatory transmission between axons of the pontine parabrachial nucleus and neurons of the CeA-LC by inhibiting glutamate release from presynaptic terminals13. Here we have characterised GABAB-receptor activation on other excitatory and inhibitory projections within the CeA. Using whole-cell, patch-clamp recordings, we found that the GABAB-receptor agonist baclofen significantly reduced excitatory and inhibitory transmission from all tested inputs into the CeA-LC and CeA-M. In all but one of the inputs, reductions in transmission were accompanied by an increase in paired pulse ratio, indicating that presynaptic GABAB-receptors acted to reduce the release probability of synaptic vesicles. To examine the impact of GABAB-receptors in the CeA on contextual fear-conditioning, we infused baclofen into the CeA immediately prior to training. Compared to vehicle-infused rats, baclofen-infused rats displayed significantly less freezing both during the final stages of the training period and at test 24 hours later. The results of this study demonstrate that, by suppressing excitatory and inhibitory transmission, activation of presynaptic GABAB-receptors in the CeA inhibits the development of context conditioned fear.
Overgrowth and strain investigation of (11–20) non-polar GaN on patterned templates on sapphire
Authors: Jiu L. , Gong Y. , Wang T.
Published: June 2018

Non-polar (11–20) GaN with significantly improved crystal quality has been achieved by means of overgrowth on regularly arrayed micro-rod templates on sapphire in comparison with standard non-polar GaN grown without any patterning processes on sapphire. Our overgrown GaN shows massively reduced linewidth of X-ray rocking curves with typical values of 270 arcsec along the [0001] direction and 380 arcsec along the [1–100] direction, which are among the best reports. Detailed X-ray measurements have been performed in order to investigate strain relaxation and in-plane strain distribution. The study has been compared with the standard non-polar GaN grown without any patterning processes and an extra non-polar GaN sample overgrown on a standard stripe-patterned template. The standard non-polar GaN grown without involving any patterning processes typically exhibits highly anisotropic in-plane strain distribution, while the overgrown GaN on our regularly arrayed micro-rod templates shows a highly isotropic in-plane strain distribution. Between them is the overgrown non-polar GaN on the stripe-patterned template. The results presented demonstrate the major advantages of using our regularly arrayed micro-rod templates for the overgrowth of non-polar GaN, leading to both high crystal quality and isotropic in-plane strain distribution, which is important for the further growth of any device structures.
TMUB1 Inhibits BRL-3A Hepatocyte Proliferation by Interfering with the Binding of CAML to Cyclophilin B through its TM1 Hydrophobic Domain
Authors: Lan Xiang , Fu Hangwei , Li Guangyao , Zeng Wei , Lin Xia , Zhu Yuanxin , Liu Menggang , Chen Ping
Published: June 2018

Transmembrane and ubiquitin-like domain-containing 1 (Tmub1) encodes a protein (TMUB1) containing an ubiquitin-like domain and plays a negative regulatory role during hepatocyte proliferation, but its mechanism in this process is still unknown. Here, TMUB1 interfered with the binding of calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand (CAML) to cyclophilin B, which may represent a key role in the negative regulatory process of TMUB1 in hepatocyte proliferation. Co-immunoprecipitation assays in rat BRL-3A cells confirmed the interaction between TMUB1 and CAML; significant regulation of the influx of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and hepatocyte proliferation occurred following TMUB1 overexpression or knockout. Deletion of the TM1 hydrophobic domain of TMUB1 completely abolished this interaction and led to loss of TMUB1’s regulatory effects on cytological behavior. Furthermore, overexpression of TMUB1 completely abolished the interaction between CAML and its downstream protein cyclophilin B, which can act upstream of calcineurin by increasing [Ca2+]i during cell proliferation. Taken together, our results indicate that TMUB1 regulates BRL-3A hepatocyte proliferation by interacting with CAML and further interferes with the binding of CAML to cyclophilin B to decrease cellular [Ca2+]i.
Eosinophils support adipocyte maturation and promote glucose tolerance in obesity
Authors: Lee Eun-Hui , Itan Michal , Jang Jinsun , Gu Hyeon-Jung , Rozenberg Perri , Mingler Melissa K. , Wen Ting , Yoon Jiyoung , Park Shi-Young , Roh Joo Young , Choi Cheol Soo , Park Woo-Jae , Munitz Ariel , Jung YunJae
Published: June 2018

Accumulating data have indicated a fundamental role of eosinophils in regulating adipose tissue homeostasis. Here, we performed whole-genome RNA sequencing of the small intestinal tract, which suggested the presence of impaired lipid metabolism in eosinophil-deficient ΔdblGATA mice. ΔdblGATA mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) showed reduced body fat mass, impaired enlargement of adipocytes, decreased expression of adipogenic genes, and developed glucose intolerance. HFD induced accumulation of eosinophils in the perigonadal white adipose tissue. Concordantly, adipocyte-differentiated 3T3-L1 cells promoted the migration of eosinophils through the expression of CCL11 (eotaxin-1) and likely promoted their survival through the expression of interleukin (IL)-3, IL-5, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. HFD-fed ΔdblGATA mice showed increased infiltration of macrophages, CD4+ T-cells, and B-cells, increased expression of interferon-γ, and decreased expression of IL-4 and IL-13 in white adipose tissue. Interferon-γ treatment significantly decreased lipid deposition in adipocyte-differentiated 3T3-L1 cells, while IL-4 treatment promoted lipid accumulation. Notably, HFD-fed ΔdblGATA mice showed increased lipid storage in the liver as compared with wild-type mice. We propose that obesity promotes the infiltration of eosinophils into adipose tissue that subsequently contribute to the metabolic homeostasis by promoting adipocyte maturation.
Dengue in pregnancy and maternal mortality: a cohort analysis using routine data
Authors: Paixao Enny S. , Harron Katie , Campbell Oona , Teixeira Maria Glória , Costa Maria da Conceição N. , Barreto Mauricio L. , Rodrigues Laura C.
Published: June 2018

Dengue is a mosquito-borne disease with major public health importance due to its growing incidence and geographical spread. There is a lack of knowledge on its contribution to maternal death. We conducted a population-based cohort study to investigate the association between symptomatic dengue during pregnancy and deaths in Brazil from 2007 to 2012. We did this by linking routine records of confirmed dengue cases to records of deaths of women who had a live birth. Using the Firth method, we estimated odds ratios for maternal deaths associated with dengue during pregnancy. Dengue increased the risk of maternal death by 3 times (95%CI,1.5–5.8) and dengue haemorrhagic fever increased the risk of maternal death by 450 times (95%CI,186.9–1088.4) when compared to mortality of pregnant women without dengue. The increase in risk occurred mostly during acute dengue 71.5 (95%CI,32.8–155.8), compared with no dengue cases. This study showed an increased risk of adverse outcomes in pregnant women with dengue. Therefore in areas where dengue is circulating, the health of pregnant women should be not only a public health priority, but health professionals attending pregnant women with dengue should more closely observe these patients to be able to intervene in a timely way and avoid deaths.
Development, Characterization and Electromechanical Actuation Behavior of Ionic Polymer Metal Composite Actuator based on Sulfonated Poly(1,4-phenylene ether-ether-sulfone)/Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Khan Ajahar , Jain Ravi Kant , Banerjee Priyabrata , Ghosh Bhaskar , Inamuddin  , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: June 2018

This paper presents the development of new cost-effective hybrid-type sulfonated poly(1,4-phenylene ether-ether-sulfone) (SPEES) and functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT) based actuators produced by the film-casting method followed by chemical reduction of Pt ions as electrodes. The preparation of SPEES was investigated in details and sulfonation of polymer was characterized by ion exchange capacity (IEC), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and degree of sulfonation measurements. SPEES having degree of sulfonation of 126% was blended with SWNT and used to fabricate IPMC actuator. The chemical composition and detailed structure of SPEES-SWNT ionic polymer membranes were confirmed by FTIR, EDX and transmittance electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed the homogeneously distributed layers of Pt electrodes on the surfaces of IPMC membrane. The electrochemical and electromechanical properties of SPEES-SWNT-Pt-based IPMC actuator shows a better actuation performance than conventional IPMC actuators in terms of higher IEC, Proton conductivity, higher current density, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and large bending deflection. The robust, flexible and mechanically strong membranes prepared by the synergistic combination of SPEES and SWNT may have considerable potential as actuator materials for robotic and biomimetic applications.
Phase transitions as intermediate steps in the formation of molecularly engineered protein fibers
Authors: Mohammadi Pezhman , Aranko A. Sesilja , Lemetti Laura , Cenev Zoran , Zhou Quan , Virtanen Salla , Landowski Christopher P. , Penttilä Merja , Fischer Wolfgang J. , Wagermaier Wolfgang , Linder Markus B.
Published: June 2018

A central concept in molecular bioscience is how structure formation at different length scales is achieved. Here we use spider silk protein as a model to design new recombinant proteins that assemble into fibers. We made proteins with a three-block architecture with folded globular domains at each terminus of a truncated repetitive silk sequence. Aqueous solutions of these engineered proteins undergo liquid–liquid phase separation as an essential pre-assembly step before fibers can form by drawing in air. We show that two different forms of phase separation occur depending on solution conditions, but only one form leads to fiber assembly. Structural variants with one-block or two-block architectures do not lead to fibers. Fibers show strong adhesion to surfaces and self-fusing properties when placed into contact with each other. Our results show a link between protein architecture and phase separation behavior suggesting a general approach for understanding protein assembly from dilute solutions into functional structures.
Emotional ratings and skin conductance response to visual, auditory and haptic stimuli
Authors: Gatti Elia , Calzolari Elena , Maggioni Emanuela , Obrist Marianna
Published: June 2018

The human emotional reactions to stimuli delivered by different sensory modalities is a topic of interest for many disciplines, from Human-Computer-Interaction to cognitive sciences. Different databases of stimuli eliciting emotional reaction are available, tested on a high number of participants. Interestingly, stimuli within one database are always of the same type. In other words, to date, no data was obtained and compared from distinct types of emotion-eliciting stimuli from the same participant. This makes it difficult to use different databases within the same experiment, limiting the complexity of experiments investigating emotional reactions. Moreover, whereas the stimuli and the participants’ rating to the stimuli are available, physiological reactions of participants to the emotional stimuli are often recorded but not shared. Here, we test stimuli delivered either through a visual, auditory, or haptic modality in a within participant experimental design. We provide the results of our study in the form of a MATLAB structure including basic demographics on the participants, the participant’s self-assessment of his/her emotional state, and his/her physiological reactions (i.e., skin conductance).
Transcriptional profiling of stellate ganglia from normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rat strains
Authors: Davis Harvey , Bardsley Emma N. , Paterson David J.
Published: June 2018

The course of hypertension remains poorly understood, although impairment of the sympathetic nervous systems is thought to play a role in its aetiology. In this study, RNA-sequencing (RNAseq) was used to identify transcriptomal differences in the sympathetic stellate ganglia between 16-week-old normotensive Wistar rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Sequencing quality was assessed by FastQC and quasi-mapping rate by Salmon. Differential expression results were confirmed by real time reverse transcriptase Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). RNAseq analysis was found to be predictive and representative of transcriptomal changes when compared to qRT-PCR by correlation analysis. Whether these changes underpin physiological sympathetic phenotypes associated with hypertension remains to be established, however this dataset identifies lead transcripts as a priori targets for further investigation.
Molecular motions in a fluxional (η6-indenyl)tricarbonylchromium hemichelate: a density functional theory molecular dynamics study
Authors: Sieffert Nicolas
Published: June 2018

DFT-MD simulations provided atomic-level insights into the intramolecular dynamics of a highly fluxional Pd(ii) hemichelate and a comprehensive understanding of the thermodynamics and the kinetics associated with each motion.
Developing near-infrared long-lasting phosphorescence of Yb3+ through a medium: insights into energy transfer in the novel material Zn1.98Li0.02P2O7:Yb3+
Authors: Li Huimin , Pang Ran , Zhang Su , Lv Lingling , Feng Jing , Jiang Lihong , Li Da , Li Chengyu , Zhang Hongjie
Published: June 2018

We systematically investigated and focused on how to excite Yb3+ and obtain long-lasting phosphorescence in the novel phosphor Zn1.98Li0.02P2O7:Yb3+.
Involvement of autophagy in the beneficial effects of resveratrol in hepatic steatosis treatment. A comparison with energy restriction
Authors: Milton-Laskibar I. , Aguirre L. , Etxeberria U. , Milagro F. I. , Martínez J. A. , Portillo María P.
Published: June 2018

Involvement of autophagy in the liver delipidating effects of resveratrol and energy restriction.
On structure and phase transformation of uranium doped La2Hf2O7 nanoparticles as an efficient nuclear waste host
Authors: Abdou Maya , Gupta Santosh K. , Zuniga Jose P. , Mao Yuanbing
Published: June 2018

Doping induced phase transformation and speciation of the uranium ions in La2Hf2O7 nanoparticles as nuclear waste host were investigated.
O-GlcNAcylation confers protection againstStaphylococcus aureusinfection inCaenorhabditis elegansthrough ubiquitination
Authors: Vigneshwari Loganathan , Balasubramaniam Boopathi , Sethupathy Sivasamy , Pandian Shunmugiah Karutha , Balamurugan Krishnaswamy
Published: June 2018

Two-dimensional gel-based proteomic approach unveiled that,O-GlcNAcylation protectsCaenorhabditis elegansfromStaphylococcus aureusinfection by upregulating the proteins involved in ubiquitination pathway.
Wide channel broadband CH3NH3PbI3/SnS hybrid photodetector: breaking the limit of bandgap energy operation
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Kim Hong-Sik , Park Dae Young , Jeong Mun Seok , Kim Joondong
Published: June 2018

Perovskite-based hybrid organic–inorganic devices have recently demonstrated high potential in optoelectronics.
Rational design, preparation and characterization of recombinant Ag85B variants and their glycoconjugates with T-cell antigenic activity againstMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Rinaldi Francesca , Tengattini Sara , Piubelli Luciano , Bernardini Roberta , Mangione Francesca , Bavaro Teodora , Paone Gregorino , Mattei Maurizio , Pollegioni Loredano , Filice Gaetano , Temporini Caterina , Terreni Marco
Published: June 2018

Recombinant Ag85B variants were designed and prepared to improve the immunogenicity of a potential glycoconjugate vaccine against tuberculosis.
A novel square-planar Pt(ii) complex as a monomeric and dimeric G-quadruplex DNA binder
Authors: Zhou Chun-Qiong , Li Zi-Qi , Liao Ting-Cong , Ma Tian-Zhu , Chen Shuo-Bin , Liang Yuan-Yuan
Published: June 2018

A phenanthroimidazole ethylenediamine Pt(ii) complex with coumarin derivative (1) showed high binding properties and thermal stabilization for dimeric quadruplexes G2T1.
Microwave assisted one-pot green synthesis of cinnoline derivatives inside natural sporopollenin microcapsules
Authors: Dyab Amro K. F. , Sadek Kamal Usef
Published: June 2018

We have achievedin situmicrowave assisted green syntheses of a novel cinnoline derivative inside natural sporopollenin microreactors.
Lignosulfonate biomass derived N and S co-doped porous carbon for efficient oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Zhang Mingli , Song Yanliang , Tao Hengcong , Yan Chao , Masa Justus , Liu Yongchao , Shi Xiaoyou , Liu Shizhen , Zhang Xu , Sun Zhenyu
Published: June 2018

N and S co-doped porous carbon was synthesized by annealing a cheap precursor of biomass for efficient oxygen reduction electrocatalysis.
On the development of a proton conducting solid polymer electrolyte using poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Patra Sudeshna , Puthirath Anand B. , Vineesh Thazhe Veettil , Narayanaru Sreekanth , Soman Bhaskar , Suriyakumar Shruti , Stephan A. Manuel , Narayanan Tharangattu N.
Published: June 2018

An inexpensive proton conducting solid polymer membrane is developed and its efficacy towards pure water electrolysis is demonstrated, which conventional membranes cannot achieve.
Rational design of a 3D MoS2/dual-channel graphene framework hybrid as a free-standing electrode for enhanced lithium storage
Authors: Wang Wenxu , Yang Puheng , Jian Zhixu , Li Honglei , Xing Yalan , Zhang Shichao
Published: June 2018

The unique 3D dual-channel graphene framework could improve electron transport by GF channels possessing high electrical conductivity and facilitate Li ion diffusion by GA channels shortening the diffusion pathways.
Graphene oxide coating core–shell silver sulfide@mesoporous silica for active targeted dual-mode imaging and chemo-photothermal synergistic therapy against tumors
Authors: Song Yuan-Yang , Li Cheng , Yang Xiao-Quan , An Jie , Cheng Kai , Xuan Yang , Shi Xue-Meng , Gao Meng-Juan , Song Xian-Lin , Zhao Yuan-Di , Chen Wei
Published: June 2018

FA-modified-GO coated core–shell Ag2S@mesoporous silica where DOX was loaded for active targeting FL/PA imaging and synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy of tumors.
A ‘turn-on’ fluorescent probe for lysosomal phosphatase: a comparative study for labeling of cancer cells
Authors: Podder Arup , Senapati Sudipta , Maiti Pralay , Kamalraj Devaraj , Jaffer Syed S , Khatun Sabina , Bhuniya Sankarprasad
Published: June 2018

A turn-on fluorescent probe (LP1) discriminates cancer cells from normal cells based on expression of phosphatase in lysosomes.
Teleaudiology Services for Rehabilitation With Hearing Aids in Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tao Karina F. M. , Brennan-Jones Christopher G. , Capobianco-Fava Dirce M. , Jayakody Dona M. P. , Friedland Peter L. , Swanepoel De Wet , Eikelboom Robert H.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This review examined (a) the current evidence from studies on teleaudiology applications for rehabilitation of adults with hearing impairment with hearing aids and (b) whether it is sufficient to support the translation into routine clinical practice.

Method

A search strategy and eligibility criteria were utilized to include articles specifically related to hearing aid fitting and follow-up procedures that are involved in consultations for the rehabilitation of adults, where the service was provided by the clinician by teleaudiology. A search using key words and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) was conducted on the main electronic databases that index health-related studies. The included studies were assessed using validated evaluation tools for methodological quality, level of evidence, and grade recommendations for application into practice.

Results

Fourteen studies were identified as being within the scope of this review. The evaluation tools showed that none of these studies demonstrated either a strong methodological quality or high level of evidence. Analysis of evidence identified 19 activities, which were classified into service outcomes categories of feasibility, barriers, efficiency, quality, and effectiveness. Recommendations could be made regarding the (a) feasibility, (b) barriers, and (c) efficiency of teleaudiology for the rehabilitation of hearing loss with hearing aids.

Conclusion

This review provides up-to-date evidence for teleaudiology hearing aid services in new and experienced hearing aid users in different practice settings. Findings direct future research priorities to strengthen evidence-based practice. There is a need for further studies of many aspects of teleaudiology services for rehabilitation with hearing aids to support their implementation into clinical practice.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.6534473
Formation of S0 galaxies through mergers
Authors: Eliche-Moral M. C. , Rodríguez-Pérez C. , Borlaff A. , Querejeta M. , Tapia T.
Published: June 2018

Context. Major mergers are popularly considered too destructive to produce the relaxed regular structures and the morphological inner components (ICs) usually observed in lenticular (S0) galaxies.

Aims. We aim to test if major mergers can produce remnants with realistic S0 morphologies.

Methods. We have selected a sample of relaxed discy remnants resulting from the dissipative merger simulations of the GalMer database and derived their properties mimicking the typical conditions of current observational data. We have compared their global morphologies, visual components, and merger relics in mock photometric images with their real counterparts.

Results. Only Ȉ1–2 Gyr after the full merger, we find that: 1) many remnants (67 major and 29 minor events) present relaxed structures and typical S0 or E/S0 morphologies, for a wide variety of orbits and even in gas-poor cases. 2) Contrary to popular expectations, most of them do not exhibit any morphological traces of their past merger origin under typical observing conditions and at distances as nearby as 30 Mpc. 3) The merger relics are more persistent in minor mergers than in major ones for similar relaxing time periods. 4) No major-merger S0-like remnant develops a significant bar. 5) Nearly 58% of the major-merger S0 remnants host visually detectable ICs, such as embedded inner discs, rings, pseudo-rings, inner spirals, nuclear bars, and compact sources, very frequent in real S0s too. 6) All remnants contain a lens or oval, identically ubiquitous in local S0s. 7) These lenses and ovals do not come from bar dilution in major-merger cases, but are associated with stellar halos or embedded inner discs instead (thick or thin).

Conclusions. The relaxed morphologies, lenses, ovals, and other ICs of real S0s do not necessarily come from internal secular evolution, gas infall, or environmental mechanisms, as traditionally assumed, but they can result from major mergers as well.
Planning of heat supply of territories: model and algorithms
Authors: Mednikova Ekaterina E.
Published: June 2018

The choice of direction of heat supply systems development in cities is an important task for the authorities, district heating companies and consumers. The author focuses on two main problems in heat supply development questions: territory zoning by type of heat supply and determination of economically feasible heat supply systems sizes. For the solution of these problems, the mathematical model and algorithms were developed. For the solution of this task algorithms were developed.
Optimization of reliability parameters structure for district heating systems
Authors: Postnikov Ivan V.
Published: June 2018

The problem of reliability parameters distribution on the district heating system's scheme is considered. This is one of important part of the general problem of optimal synthesis of district heating systems and is urgent for both the systems under design and the existing insufficiently reliable systems. The concept of solving the problem is based on the average reliability parameters of components (failure and restoration rates) which determine the first approximation to the optimal solution. This parameters needs for the further distribution its average values among system components. Algorithm and mathematical models for determine of optimal reliability parameters of system components with provide the required level of heat supply reliability and minimal total costs on ensuring this level are developed. The methodology of solving the stated problem is based on the methods of the theory of hydraulic circuits, nodal reliability, indices models of Markov random process and general regularities of heat transfer processes. The methodology also takes into account changes in thermal loads during the heating period and time redundancy of consumers related to heat storage.
Modeling of a Prosumer in Intelligent Integrated Energy Systems
Authors: Barakhtenko Evgeny , Sokolov Dmitry , Shelekhova Veronika
Published: June 2018

The integration of many energy systems of various types (electricity, heat, cooling, etc.) into a single technological entity involves the use of new information and communication technologies and a holistic multi-level automated control system, which provides the establishment of integrated intelligent energy systems. In such systems, the consumer can both provide themselves with various types of energy, and supply energy into the energy system. The paper presents a methodology for modeling the prosumer in intelligent integrated energy systems. The methodology includes the following components: a mathematical model of the prosumer in intelligent electricity, heat/cooling systems; a method of choosing the energy sources to cover their load with minimal costs of electricity, heat/cooling generation. The methodology developed for modeling the, prosumer in intelligent electric, heat/cooling systems was implemented in software. The presented results are tested on a test energy supply scheme.
Problems of organization of operating conditions of large heat supply systems and their solutions based on multilevel modeling
Authors: Shalaginiva Zoya I. , Tokarev Vyacheslav V.
Published: June 2018

The paper unveils relevance of applying the methodology of multi-level modeling of thermal-hydraulic conditions of heat supply systems (HSS) and the software which are realized in the informationcomputing system “ANGARA-TS”, which make possible development of operating conditions and adjustment measures in HSS of any structure and complexity including non-standard circuit designs. Application of the multi-level modeling of HSS that is based on integration of mathematical models, methods and information technologies allows one to link the main principle of mathematical modeling that contributes to rational correspondence of the degree of mathematical model detail with the goals of its use, and modeling for different purposes. Information-computing system is implemented in a variety of real HSS of large cities in the organization of regimes and development of adjustment activities. The paper describes the experience of using new methods for development of operating conditions of large HSS in real towns.
Information and computing spaces integration for operating enterprises of pipeline systems using “ANGARA” computer technology
Authors: Alekseev Aleksandr V. , Novitsky Nikolay N.
Published: June 2018

The article describes the informatization level of enterprises operating pipeline networks. Existing problems are presented. These problems are related to the fragmentation of information systems and the inability to provide information support for decision-making on the management of the development and operation of pipeline systems. An overview of the most high-usage used software for automate the activities of enterprises is given. The need to create a common information space of an enterprise and the opportunities it provides is shown. A brief description of the information-computer environment “ANGARA” and the technology of organizing a common information space on its basis is given. The experience of practical application of the information-computer environment “ANGARA” for creating the common information space of the Municipal Unitary Enterprise “Vodocanal” in Irkutsk is cited. On the diagram of the organizational structure of the enterprise the workplaces with access to a common information is showed.
Internet system for hydraulic calculations of pipeline systems by the methods of the theory of hydraulic circuits
Authors: Mikhailovsky Egor A.
Published: June 2018

The paper is focused on a characteristic of an innovative technology for remote application of methods of the theory of hydraulic circuits for modeling the operation of multi-loop water and gas pipeline systems, using the Internet browser. The aims, objectives and implementation principles of the technology resting on the concept of object-oriented modeling of pipeline systems and clientserver architecture of the distributed software are presented. The results of its application are demonstrated.
International Innovative Mining Symposium at T.F. Gorbachev Kuzbass State Technical University: to the global “Think Tank” of mining science in Kuzbass
Authors: Krechetov Andrey
Published: June 2018

The transition to the sustainable development posed new challenges to the system of mining education, determined by the acceleration of scientific and technological progress and the widespread introduction of innovations, the convergence of technologies from various industries. Globalization and the rapid pace of technologies’ development put forward constantly growing demands on the quality of the labor resources of mineral and raw materials complex, and constant growth of their qualifications. The accelerated innovative development of the mineral and raw materials complex carries new meanings of cooperation between mining universities, representatives of academic science, industrial enterprises and government bodies. The global expansion of the horizons of cooperation between raw materials universities of different countries is designed to accelerate the diffusion of innovation, the growth of labor productivity and safety, and increase the economic stability of extractive enterprises. The need for improving the social well-being of the population of extracting territories makes the discussion of humanization of mining engineering, the social responsibility of enterprises urgent. Such a broad understanding of mining development problems contributes the transformation of the regular International Mining Symposium center – T.F. Gorbachev Kuzbass State Technical University – into the "Think Tank" of Russian mining science.
Searching for the Optimal Parameters of the Thick Steep Seams‘ Under-Level Development
Authors: Kostyuk Svetlana , Bedarev Nikolay , Lyubimov Oleg , Kovalyov Nikolay
Published: June 2018

At the present time the problem to search for variants for the development of steep thick coal seams is highly interest. Here there are, for example, variants for managing the workings’ roof by caving or laying the worked out space. The authors proposed a number of methods for it, which are protected by patents. The permissible span of the roof exposure is estimated as a function of the type of the immediate roof of the mine, its thickness, bulk density and tensile strength, and the height of the underlevel is also determined. The technical result is provided by the presence of the protective inter-horizon strips and inter-sectional pillars, by the order of working out the excavation site and by the value of the step of the binding of the worked out space. The above solutions are acceptable for the Prokopyevsk-Kiselevsk coal region in Kuzbass.
Complex Approach to the Development of Potash, Potassium-Magnesium and Salt Deposits
Authors: Lipnitsky Nikita , Kuskova Yana
Published: June 2018

Salt minerals of various deposits belong to the sedimentary rocks class. They were formed with the long evaporation of seawater in different geological epochs and therefore consist, as a rule, of salt minerals belonging to chlorides and sulphide of alkali and alkaline-earth metals. Forexample, the Starobinsky deposit is characterized by halogen compounds, and Kalushsky and Stebnikovskoye ones by sulfate salts. In addition, inBerezniki deposit and in other Russian deposits there are mixed rocks, including various potassium compounds. Taking into account the peculiarities of potash deposits caused by their easy solubility, acomprehensive solution for their development, containing both the conditions for conducting mining operations and the conditions for theenrichment of potassium-bearing ores, will be relevant.