bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subfilter-scale enrichment of planetary boundary layer large eddy simulation using discrete Fourier–Gabor modes
Authors: Ghate Aditya S. , Lele Sanjiva K.
Published: April 2017

A new multiscale simulation methodology is introduced to facilitate computationally efficient simulations of high Reynolds number turbulence seen in wall-bounded flows. The scale splitting methodology uses traditional large eddy simulation (LES) with a wall model to simulate the larger scales which are subsequently enriched using a space–time compatible kinematic simulation. Computational feasibility and robustness of the methodology are investigated using two idealized problems that emulate turbulence within the planetary boundary layer (PBL), and a finite Reynolds number channel flow problem which serves to validate the methodology against direct numerical simulation. The space–time correlations and spectra generated using enriched LES show excellent agreement with LES conducted at high resolution for all three problems; thereby demonstrating the potential of this approach for high resolution PBL simulations with a drastic reduction in the computational costs when compared to the conventional approach.
Thermocapillary modulation of self-rewetting films
Authors: Batson W. , Agnon Y. , Oron A.
Published: April 2017

Whereas surface tension decreases linearly with temperature for most fluids, here we consider those that exhibit a well-defined minimum. Specifically, our study is motivated by dilute aqueous mixtures of long-chain alcohols, for which surface tension is typically assumed to be a quadratic function of temperature. Utilization of these so-called ‘self-rewetting fluids’ has grown significantly in the past decade, due to observations that heat transfer is enhanced in applications such as film boiling and pulsating heat pipes. With similar applications in mind, we investigate the dynamics of a thin film with quadratic surface tension which is subjected to a temperature modulation in the bounding gas. A model is developed within the framework of the long-wave approximation, and a time-averaged thermocapillary driving force for destabilization is uncovered that results from the nonlinear surface tension. Linear stability analysis of the nonlinear partial differential equation for the film thickness is used to determine the critical conditions at which this driving force destabilizes the film and numerical investigation of this evolution equation reveals that linearly unstable perturbations saturate to regular periodic solutions (when the modulational frequency is set properly). Properties of these flows such as bifurcation at critical points and long-domain flows, where multiple unstable linear modes interact, are also discussed.
Bioavailability of iron multi-amino acid chelate preparation in mice and human duodenal HuTu 80 cells
Authors: Kajarabille Naroa , Brown Catriona , Cucliciu Anamaria , Thapaliya Gita , Latunde-Dada Gladys O.
Published: April 2017

Strategies for preventing Fe deficiency include Fe supplementation and Fe fortification of foods. The absorption, metabolism and chemical characteristics of Fe multi-amino acid chelate (IMAAC) are not known. Absorption of IMAAC was compared with FeSO4in Fe-depleted mice andin vitrochemical studies of the Fe supplement was performed in HuTu 80 cells. Hb repletion study was carried out in Fe-deficient CD1 mice that were fed for 10 d a diet supplemented with ferrous IMAAC or FeSO4. A control group of Fe-replete mice was fed a diet with adequate Fe concentrations throughout the study. Tissues were collected from the mice, and the expression of Fe-related genes was determined by quantitative PCR. Ferric reductase and Fe uptake were evaluated in HuTu 80 cells. Supplementation of the diet with FeSO4or IMAAC significantly increased Hb levels (P<0·001) in Fe-deficient mice from initial 93·9 (SD10·8) or 116·2 (SD9·1) to 191 (SD0·7) or 200 (SD0·5) g/l, respectively. Initial and final Hb for the Fe-deficient control group were 87·4 (SD6·7) and 111 (SD11·7) g/l, respectively. Furthermore, the liver non-haem Fe of both supplement groups increased significantly (P<0·001). IMAAC was more effective at restoring Fe in the spleen compared with FeSO4(P<0·005). Gene expression showed the IMAAC supplement absorption is regulated by the body’s Fe status as it significantly up-regulated hepcidin (P<0·001) and down-regulated duodenal cytochrome b mRNA (P<0·005), similar to the effects seen with FeSO4. A significant proportion of Fe in IMAAC is reduced by ascorbic acid. Fe absorption in mice and cells was similar for both IMAAC and FeSO4and both compounds induce and regulate Fe metabolism genes similarly in the maintenance of homeostasis in mice.
Body weight and body composition changes during military training and deployment involving the use of combat rations: a systematic literature review
Authors: Tassone Eliza C. , Baker Bradley A.
Published: April 2017

Dismounted military personnel operate in physically and psychologically demanding environments, with energy intake from combat rations often falling short of their requirements, leading to reductions in body weight and changes in body composition, which can impact both their health and performance. This review systematically investigated the effects of the continual use of combat rations for periods of 3–40 d on body weight and/or body composition in military personnel engaged in training or deployment. In all, ten databases were searched from their inception until October 2016. Outcome data were described narratively, with studies assessed for quality and risk of bias. A total of thirty studies undertaken over 3–34 d were included. Studies were rated positive, neutral or negative in quality according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Checklist, with many at risk of bias. Reductions in mean body weight varied, from a negligible decrease of 0·1 % during 8 d of combat training to a substantial decrease of approximately 8·3 % during 12 d of energy restriction during a US Army Ranger course. Decreases in fat mass, fat-free mass and percentage body fat were also reported. There is thus evidence that the continual use of combat rations for periods of 3–34 d results in reductions in body weight and body composition changes which, in some scenarios, may impact on the performance of troops. Body weight and composition should be routinely monitored before and after field activities, and at more regular intervals depending on the length, intensity and type of activity being undertaken.
Dietary supplementation of branched-chain amino acids increases muscle net amino acid fluxes through elevating their substrate availability and intramuscular catabolism in young pigs
Authors: Zheng Liufeng , Zuo Fangrui , Zhao Shengjun , He Pingli , Wei Hongkui , Xiang Quanhang , Pang Jiaman , Peng Jian
Published: April 2017

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) have been clearly demonstrated to have anabolic effects on muscle protein synthesis. However, little is known about their roles in the regulation of net AA fluxes across skeletal musclein vivo. This study was aimed to investigate the effect and related mechanisms of dietary supplementation of BCAA on muscle net amino acid (AA) fluxes using the hindlimb flux model. In all fourteen 4-week-old barrows were fed reduced-protein diets with or without supplemental BCAA for 28 d. Pigs were implanted with carotid arterial, femoral arterial and venous catheters, and fed once hourly with intraarterial infusion ofp-amino hippurate. Arterial and venous plasma and muscle samples were obtained for the measurement of AA, branched-chainα-keto acids (BCKA) and 3-methylhistidine (3-MH). Metabolomes of venous plasma were determined by HPLC-quadrupole time-of-flight-MS. BCAA-supplemented group showed elevated muscle net fluxes of total essential AA, non-essential AA and AA. As for individual AA, muscle net fluxes of each BCAA and their metabolites (alanine, glutamate and glutamine), along with those of histidine, methionine and several functional non-essential AA (glycine, proline and serine), were increased by BCAA supplementation. The elevated muscle net AA fluxes were associated with the increase in arterial and intramuscular concentrations of BCAA and venous metabolites including BCKA and free fatty acids, and were also related to the decrease in the intramuscular concentration of 3-MH. Correlation analysis indicated that muscle net AA fluxes are highly and positively correlated with arterial BCAA concentrations and muscle net BCKA production. In conclusion, supplementing BCAA to reduced-protein diet increases the arterial concentrations and intramuscular catabolism of BCAA, both of which would contribute to an increase of muscle net AA fluxes in young pigs.
Slaying Men with Faces of Women: Liberalism and patronage in the trial of a South Indian maulvi, 1839–40
Authors: MALLAMPALLI CHANDRA
Published: April 2017

In April 1839, 29 Muslims in Vellore (South India) accused theirmaulvi, Sayyid Shah Modin Qadiri, of preaching seditious sermons in his mosque, which exhorted Muslims to wage jihad against the ruling East India Company. The ensuing criminal trial of Maulvi Modin illustrates key aspects of liberal imperialism as it was interpreted and implemented in pre-Mutiny India. As a central ideology of the British empire, liberalism championed the rights and freedoms of rational individuals and constraints on state power. At Modin's trial, however, this framework did not lend itself to a sanitary, evidence-based enquiry that bracketed the identities of the accused or the accusers. Rather, the trial measured a Muslim's place within networks of patronage that ensurednamak halal, or the bonds of loyalty between rulers and subjects. Far from being a post-Enlightenment adjudication of guilt or innocence, his trial reveals the Company's investment in a particular kind of social order maintained by its scrutiny of class backgrounds and its patronage of traditional identities—a fact that softens the distinction often made between a commitment to liberal transformation before the Great Rebellion of 1857 and a return to conservatism afterwards.1
Promoting medication adherence among patients with bipolar disorder: a multicenter randomized controlled trial of a multifaceted intervention
Authors: Pakpour A. H. , Modabbernia A. , Lin C.-Y. , Saffari M. , Ahmadzad Asl M. , Webb T. L.
Published: April 2017

Background

The present research aimed to investigate the efficacy of a multifaceted intervention that included motivational interviewing (MI) and psychoeducation in improving medication adherence (MA) among patients with bipolar disorder (BD).

Method

A multicenter, cluster randomized, observer-blind, controlled, parallel-group trial was conducted in ten academic centers in Iran. Patients with BD were randomly assigned to the experimental group (EXP; n = 136) or the usual care group (UC; n = 134). The EXP group received five sessions of MI and psychoeducation together with their family members. The primary outcome measure was changes in scores on the Medication Adherence Rating Scale from baseline to 6 months post-intervention. Other outcome measures included serum levels of mood stabilizers, clinical symptoms, quality of life, as well as measures of intention, beliefs about medicine, perceived behavioral control, automaticity, action and coping planning, and adverse reactions.

Results

Medication adherence improved over time in both groups, but patients in the EXP group improved more (baseline score: 6.03; score at the sixth month: 9.55) than patients in the UC group (baseline score: 6.17; score at the sixth month: 6.67). In addition, patients in the EXP group showed greater improvement than patients in the UC group in almost all secondary outcomes 6 months following the intervention.

Conclusions

Multifaceted interventions that include motivational-interviewing and psychoeducation can significantly improve MA and clinical and functional outcomes in patients with BD.

Trial Registration Number: The trial was registered with theClinicalTrials.gov database (NCT02241863) https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02241863
Free Schools in England: ‘Not Unlike other Schools’?
Authors: WIBORG SUSANNE , GREEN FRANCIS , TAYLOR-GOOBY PETER , WILDE RACHEL J.
Published: April 2017

The aim of this article is to investigate the argument that choice and competition will unleash entrepreneurial innovation in free schools. Free schools were introduced as a subset of the Academies by the Conservative–Liberal Democrat Coalition government, following the general election in 2010. The government made it possible for non-state providers to set up their own independent, state-funded schools in order to create more choice, competition and innovation. We conclude that a higher level of substantive innovation is taking place in regards to management practices than in respect of curriculum and pedagogical practices. Innovation in curriculum and pedagogical practices is very limited. Creating a free school offer that seems to differ from other schools appears to be done through marketing and branding rather than innovation. We argue that parents, OFSTED, and the relative isolation of free schools constrain innovation from taking place.
Imposed institutions and preferences for redistribution
Authors: CHONG ALBERTO , GRADSTEIN MARK
Published: April 2017

To what extent do imposed institutions shape preferences? We consider this issue by comparing the market-versus-state attitudes of respondents from a capitalist country, Finland, and from an ex-communist group of Baltic countries, and by arguing that the period of communist rule can be viewed as an ‘experiment’ in institutional imposition. We find that, consistent with some earlier related work, citizens from ex-communist countries tend to be more supportive of state ownership than respondents from capitalist economies. However, they also favour increasing inequality and competition as the means to enhance incentives. We conclude that, in some important relevant dimensions, institutional imposition (which lasted for about 50 years) had a limited effect on preferences.
They Are All Armed and Dangerous!
Authors: Vaes Jeroen , Latrofa Marcella , Suitner Caterina , Arcuri Luciano
Published: April 2017

Abstract. The present research aims to verify the presence of linguistic biases in crime news reports (Study 1) and their role (Study 2) in activating a crime stereotype toward racial/ethnic minorities. In a first content analysis study, the natural occurrence of a set of linguistic biases was analyzed in Italian news articles that described comparable crimes committed by an in- or an outgroup aggressor. Results indicated that when the crime was committed by an outgroup (vs. ingroup) member, more aggravating and less attenuating adjectives were used. Moreover, the nationality of the perpetrator was not only mentioned more frequently, it also appeared in most cases as a noun. In Study 2, participants read a fictitious news article that either described an in- or outgroup criminal act with neutral or biased language. Their implicit associations between in- and outgroup members and weapons (vs. tools) were measured immediately afterward in the weapon paradigm. Results confirmed that a biased (vs. neutral) language use increased participants’ crime-related associations with the outgroup in general only when an outgroup criminal was staged. The role of media portrayals in determining the cognitive representations of racial/ethnic minorities is discussed.
Not just browsing: an animal that grazes phyllosphere microbes facilitates community heterogeneity
Authors: O’Rorke Richard , Tooman Leah , Gaughen Kapono , Holland Brenden S , Amend Anthony S
Published: April 2017

Although grazers have long been recognized as top–down architects of plant communities, animal roles in determining microbial community composition have seldom been examined, particularly in aboveground systems. To determine the extent to which an animal can shape microbial communities, we conducted a controlled mesocosm study in situ to see if introducing mycophageous tree snails changed phyllosphere fungal community composition relative to matched control mesocosms. Fungal community composition and change was determined by Illumina sequencing of DNA collected from leaf surfaces before snails were introduced, daily for 3 days and weekly for 6 weeks thereafter. Scanning electron microscopy was used to confirm that grazing had occurred, and we recorded 3.5 times more cover of fungal hyphae in control mesocosms compared with those containing snails. Snails do not appear to vector novel microbes and despite grazing, a significant proportion of the initial leaf phyllosphere persisted in the mesocosms. Within-mesocosm diversities of fungi were similar regardless of whether or not snails were added. The greatest differences between the snail-treated and control mesocosms was that grazed mesocosms showed greater infiltration of microbes that were not sampled when the experiment commenced and that the variance in fungal community composition (beta diversity) was greater between leaves in snail-treated mesocosms indicating increased community heterogeneity and ecosystem fragmentation.
Homogeneously catalysed conversion of aqueous formaldehyde to H2 and carbonate
Authors: Trincado M. , Sinha Vivek , Rodriguez-Lugo Rafael E. , Pribanic Bruno , de Bruin Bas , Grützmacher Hansjörg
Published: April 2017

Small organic molecules provide a promising solution for the requirement to store large amounts of hydrogen in a future hydrogen-based energy system. Herein, we report that diolefin–ruthenium complexes containing the chemically and redox non-innocent ligand trop2dad catalyse the production of H2 from formaldehyde and water in the presence of a base. The process involves the catalytic conversion to carbonate salt using aqueous solutions and is the fastest reported for acceptorless formalin dehydrogenation to date. A mechanism supported by density functional theory calculations postulates protonation of a ruthenium hydride to form a low-valent active species, the reversible uptake of dihydrogen by the ligand and active participation of both the ligand and the metal in substrate activation and dihydrogen bond formation.
Wearable smart sensor systems integrated on soft contact lenses for wireless ocular diagnostics
Authors: Kim Joohee , Kim Minji , Lee Mi-Sun , Kim Kukjoo , Ji Sangyoon , Kim Yun-Tae , Park Jihun , Na Kyungmin , Bae Kwi-Hyun , Kyun Kim Hong , Bien Franklin , Young Lee Chang , Park Jang-Ung
Published: April 2017

Wearable contact lenses which can monitor physiological parameters have attracted substantial interests due to the capability of direct detection of biomarkers contained in body fluids. However, previously reported contact lens sensors can only monitor a single analyte at a time. Furthermore, such ocular contact lenses generally obstruct the field of vision of the subject. Here, we developed a multifunctional contact lens sensor that alleviates some of these limitations since it was developed on an actual ocular contact lens. It was also designed to monitor glucose within tears, as well as intraocular pressure using the resistance and capacitance of the electronic device. Furthermore, in-vivo and in-vitro tests using a live rabbit and bovine eyeball demonstrated its reliable operation. Our developed contact lens sensor can measure the glucose level in tear fluid and intraocular pressure simultaneously but yet independently based on different electrical responses.
Solid-state synthesis of ordered mesoporous carbon catalysts via a mechanochemical assembly through coordination cross-linking
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Wang Li , Yang Shize , Schott Jennifer A. , Liu Xiaofei , Mahurin Shannon M. , Huang Caili , Zhang Yu , Fulvio Pasquale F. , Chisholm Matthew F. , Dai Sheng
Published: April 2017

Ordered mesoporous carbons (OMCs) have demonstrated great potential in catalysis, and as supercapacitors and adsorbents. Since the introduction of the organic–organic self-assembly approach in 2004/2005 until now, the direct synthesis of OMCs is still limited to the wet processing of phenol-formaldehyde polycondensation, which involves soluble toxic precursors, and acid or alkali catalysts, and requires multiple synthesis steps, thus restricting the widespread application of OMCs. Herein, we report a simple, general, scalable and sustainable solid-state synthesis of OMCs and nickel OMCs with uniform and tunable mesopores (∼4–10 nm), large pore volumes (up to 0.96 cm3 g−1) and high-surface areas exceeding 1,000 m2 g−1, based on a mechanochemical assembly between polyphenol-metal complexes and triblock co-polymers. Nickel nanoparticles (∼5.40 nm) confined in the cylindrical nanochannels show great thermal stability at 600 °C. Moreover, the nickel OMCs offer exceptional activity in the hydrogenation of bulky molecules (∼2 nm).
Population scale data reveals the antidepressant effects of ketamine and other therapeutics approved for non-psychiatric indications
Authors: Cohen Isaac V. , Makunts Tigran , Atayee Rabia , Abagyan Ruben
Published: April 2017

Current therapeutic approaches to depression fail for millions of patients due to lag in clinical response and non-adherence. Here we provide new support for the antidepressant effect of an anesthetic drug, ketamine, by Inverse-Frequency Analysis of eight million reports from the FDA Adverse Effect Reporting System. The results of the examination of population scale data revealed that patients who received ketamine had significantly lower frequency of reports of depression than patients who took any other combination of drugs for pain. The analysis also revealed that patients who took ketamine had significantly lower frequency of reports of pain and opioid induced side effects, implying ketamine’s potential to act as a beneficial adjunct agent in pain management pharmacotherapy. Further, the Inverse-Frequency Analysis methodology provides robust statistical support for the antidepressant action of other currently approved therapeutics including diclofenac and minocycline.
Cnot3 enhances human embryonic cardiomyocyte proliferation by promoting cell cycle inhibitor mRNA degradation
Authors: Zhou Bingying , Liu Junwei , Ren Zongna , Yao Fang , Ma Jingwei , Song Jiangping , Bennett Brian , Zhen Yisong , Wang Li , Hu Guang , Hu Shengshou
Published: April 2017

Uncovering the molecular basis of mammalian cardiomyocyte proliferation may eventually lead to better approaches for heart regeneration. Compared to extensively-studied transcriptional regulation, the roles of posttranscriptional regulation in cardiac cell fate decisions remain largely unknown. Here, we identified Cnot3 as a critical regulator in cardiomyocyte proliferation at the late stage of cardiac differentiation from human ESCs. Cnot3 was highly expressed in cardiomyocytes with higher proliferation potential in both human and mouse, and its depletion resulted in significant reduction in the proliferative capacity of cells. Furthermore, Cnot3 overexpression greatly enhanced proliferation in both cultured human cardiomyocytes and infarcted murine hearts. Mechanistically, the Ccr4-Not complex preferentially interacted with anti-proliferation gene transcripts in a Cnot3-dependent manner, and promoted their degradation. Together, our study supported the model that Cnot3 enhances cardiomyocyte proliferation by promoting cell cycle inhibitor mRNA degradation. It revealed a previously unrecognized role of mRNA degradation in cardiomyocyte growth, and suggested a potential strategy to control cardiac cell fates in development and diseases.
Utility of quantitative contrast-enhanced ultrasound for the prediction of extracapsular extension in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yi , Liu Hua , Qian Chang-Lin , Lin Mei-Sui , Li Feng-Hua
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study was to find an accurate method for the detection of extracapsular extension (ECE) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). A total of 102 patients with 109 PTC nodules were retrospectively enrolled. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) characteristics were evaluated. The diagnostic efficacy of quantitative CEUS and tumor size was analyzed. The qualitative CEUS features did not differ significantly between the ECE and non-ECE groups (P > 0.05). All of the quantitative CEUS parameters with the exception of peak intensity and tumor size were found to differ significantly between the ECE and non-ECE groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis demonstrated that time from peak to one half (TPH), tumor size and wash-in slope (WIS) were the significantly different parameters between the ECE and non-ECE groups (P = 0.000, P = 0.005 and P = 0.030, respectively).The sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of ECE were: TPH, 75.4% (43/57) and 78.9% (41/52), respectively; WIS, 87.7% (50/57) and 42.3% (22/52), respectively; and tumor size, 71.9% (41/57) and 65.4% (34/52), respectively. Quantitative CEUS analysis and tumor size are essential for the prediction of ECE in PTC; in particular TPH has good diagnostic value in detecting ECE. Our study provides important insights into the prediction of ECE in PTC.
Cryptolepine inhibits melanoma cell growth through coordinated changes in mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics and metabolic tumor suppressor AMPKα1/2-LKB1
Authors: Pal Harish C. , Prasad Ram , Katiyar Santosh K.
Published: April 2017

Dysregulated mitochondrial dynamics and biogenesis have been associated with various pathological conditions including cancers. Here, we assessed the therapeutic effect of cryptolepine, a pharmacologically active alkaloid derived from the roots of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, on melanoma cell growth. Treatment of human melanoma cell lines (A375, Hs294t, SK-Mel28 and SK-Mel119) with cryptolepine (1.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 μM) for 24 and 48 h significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited the growth of melanoma cells but not normal melanocytes. The inhibitory effect of cryptolepine was associated with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and reduced protein expression of Mfn1, Mfn2, Opa1 and p-Drp1 leading to disruption of mitochondrial dynamics. A decrease in the levels of ATP and mitochondrial mass were associated with activation of the metabolic tumor suppressor AMPKα1/2-LKB1, and a reduction in mTOR signaling. Decreased expression of SDH-A and COX-I demonstrated that cryptolepine treatment reduced mitochondrial biogenesis. In vivo treatment of A375 xenograft-bearing nude mice with cryptolepine (10 mg/Kg body weight, i.p.) resulted in significant inhibition of tumor growth, which was associated with disruption of mitochondrial dynamics and a reduction in mitochondrial biogenesis. Our study suggests that low toxicity phytochemicals like cryptolepine may be tested for the treatment of melanoma.
Epidemiological, clinical, and virologic features of two family clusters of avian influenza A (H7N9) virus infections in Southeast China
Authors: Xie Jianfeng , Weng Yuwei , Ou Jianming , Zhao Lin , Zhang Yanhua , Wang Jinzhang , Chen Wei , Huang Meng , Xiu Wenqiong , Chen Hongbin , Zhang Yongjun , Wu Binshan , He Wenxiang , Zhu Ying , You Libin , Huang Zhimiao , Zhang Canming , Hong Longtao , Wang Wei , Zheng Kuicheng
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological, clinical, and virologic characteristics of avian influenza A (H7N9) confirmed cases from two family clusters in Southeast China. Epidemiological data of the H7N9 confirmed cases and their close contacts were obtained through interviews and reviews of medical records. Of the four patients in these two family clusters, two cases had mild symptoms, one had severe symptoms, and one died. Three of the four patients had a history of exposure to live poultry or contaminated environments. The complete genome sequences of the H7N9 viruses from the same family cluster were highly homologous, and the four isolated viruses from the two family clusters exhibited the virologic features of the H7N9 virus, in terms of transmissibility, pathogenicity, host adaptation, and antiviral drug resistance. In addition, our findings indicated that the A/Fujian/18/2015 viral strain contained an additional hemagglutinin G225D substitution, which preferentially binds α2,6-linked sialic acids. The results of this study demonstrate that one family cluster was infected through common exposure to live poultry or contaminated environments, and the other was more likely to be infected through the human-to-human route.
Differential processing of small RNAs during endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Mesitov Mikhail V. , Soldatov Ruslan A. , Zaichenko Danila M. , Malakho Sophie G. , Klementyeva Tatyana S. , Sokolovskaya Alisa A. , Kubatiev Aslan A. , Mironov Andrey A. , Moskovtsev Aleksey A.
Published: April 2017

The accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen due to the disruption of the homeostatic system of the ER leads to the induction of the ER stress response. Cellular stress-induced pathways globally transform genes expression on both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels with small RNA involvement as regulators of the stress response. The modulation of small RNA processing might represent an additional layer of a complex stress response program. However, it is poorly understood. Here, we studied changes in expression and small RNAs processing upon ER stress in Jurkat T-cells. Induced by ER-stress, depletion of miRNAs among small RNA composition was accompanied by a global decrease of 3′ mono-adenylated, mono-cytodinylated and a global increase of 3′ mono-uridinylated miRNA isoforms. We observed the specific subset of differentially expressed microRNAs, and also the dramatic induction of 32-nt tRNA fragments precisely phased to 5′ and 3′ ends of tRNA from a subset of tRNA isotypes. The induction of these tRNA fragments was linked to Angiogenin RNase, which mediates translation inhibition. Overall, the global perturbations of the expression and processing of miRNAs and tiRNAs were the most prominent features of small RNA transcriptome changes upon ER stress.
A turn-on FRET sensor based on dichlorofluorescein and AuNPs for rapid and ultrasensitive detection of ambroxol hydrochloride in urine
Authors: Wu Pinping , Li Nan , Gu Yu , Guo Yuhan , Lou Haoshuang , He Hua
Published: April 2017

Schematic illustration for the detection of ambroxol based on FRET between the AuNPs and DCF.
Solid-state nanopore analysis of alcohol-soluble molecules
Authors: Roy Dhrubajyoti Basu , Hall Adam R.
Published: April 2017

We report on a modified solid-state nanopore measurement scheme to probe alcohol-soluble proteins.
A fully integrated microchip system for automated forensic short tandem repeat analysis
Authors: Han Junping , Gan Wupeng , Zhuang Bin , Sun Jing , Zhao Lei , Ye Jian , Liu Yao , Li Cai-Xia , Liu Peng
Published: April 2017

An integrated microsystem that combines plastic microchips for DNA extraction and PCR with a glass capillary array electrophoresis chip together in a compact instrument has been developed for automated forensic short tandem repeat (STR) analysis.
Automated chemical fingerprinting of Mexican spirits derived from Agave (tequila and mezcal) using direct-injection electrospray ionisation (DIESI) and low-temperature plasma (LTP) mass spectrometry
Authors: Martínez-Jarquín Sandra , Moreno-Pedraza Abigail , Cázarez-García Daniel , Winkler Robert
Published: April 2017

Tequila and mezcal are Mexican spirits prepared fromAgaveplants.
Experimental and theoretical insight into the effect of fluorine substituents on the properties of azine linked covalent organic frameworks
Authors: Alahakoon Sampath B. , Occhialini Gino , McCandless Gregory T. , Karunathilake Arosha A. K. , Nielsen Steven O. , Smaldone Ronald A.
Published: April 2017

Herein we report a combined experimental and computational study on the effect of fluorine atom incorporation on the materials properties of azine-linked COFs.
Temporal analysis of blister evolution during anion intercalation in graphite
Authors: Yivlialin R. , Bussetti G. , Magagnin L. , Ciccacci F. , Duò L.
Published: April 2017

The anion intercalation timing in graphite is disclosed and a new blister precursor phase is observed at the oxygen over-potential.
LiMCO3(M = K, Rb, Cs): a series of mixed alkali carbonates with large birefringence
Authors: Liu Qiong , Li Zhi , Wang Ying , Su Xin , Yang Zhihua , Pan Shilie
Published: April 2017

We report a series of mixed alkali carbonates LiACO3(A = K, Rb, Cs) which have a wave like structure and large birefringence.
The dynamics of benzene on Cu(111): a combined helium spin echo and dispersion-corrected DFT study into the diffusion of physisorbed aromatics on metal surfaces
Authors: Sacchi M. , Singh P. , Chisnall D. M. , Ward D. J. , Jardine A. P. , Allison W. , Ellis J. , Hedgeland H.
Published: April 2017

We use helium spin-echo spectroscopy (HeSE) to investigate the dynamics of the diffusion of benzene adsorbed on Cu(111). The results of these measurements show that benzene moves on the surface through an activated jump-diffusion process between the adsorption sites on a Bravais lattice. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations with van der Waals (vdW) corrections help us understand that the molecule diffuses by jumping through non-degenerate hollow sites. The results of the calculations shed light on the nature of the binding interaction between this prototypical aromatic molecule and the metallic surface. The highly accurate HeSE experimental data provide a quantitatively stringent benchmark for the vdW correction schemes applied to the DFT calculations and we compare the performances of several dispersion interaction schemes.
Plasmonic response and SERS modulation in electrochemical applied potentials
Authors: Di Martino G. , Turek V. A. , Tserkezis C. , Lombardi A. , Kuhn A. , Baumberg J. J.
Published: April 2017

We study the optical response of individual nm-wide plasmonic nanocavities using a nanoparticle-on-mirror design utilised as an electrode in an electrochemical cell. In this geometry Au nanoparticles are separated from a bulk Au film by an ultrathin molecular spacer, giving intense and stable Raman amplification of 100 molecules. Modulation of the plasmonic spectra and the SERS response is observed with an applied voltage under a variety of electrolytes. Different scenarios are discussed to untangle the various mechanisms that can be involved in the electronic interaction between NPs and electrode surfaces.
A theoretical study of ascorbic acid oxidation andHOO˙/O2˙−radical scavenging
Authors: Tu Yi-Jung , Njus David , Schlegel H. Bernhard
Published: April 2017

Ascorbate radical disproportionates by forming a dimer, cyclizing and dissociating to yield ascorbic acid and the most stable hydrated, bicyclic form of dehydroascorbic acid; radical scavenging by ascorbate radical can proceed by a similar mechanism.
Co-SrCO3/N-doped carbon: a highly efficient hybrid electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction and Zn–air batteries
Authors: He Xiaobo , Yin Fengxiang , Chen Jinnan , Ye Caiyun
Published: April 2017

SrCO3 with surface SrO was used to develop Co-SrCO3/NC electrocatalysts with high performance for the ORR and Zn–air batteries.
Ionic liquid assisted hydrothermal synthesis of MoS2 double-shell polyhedral cages with enhanced catalytic hydrogenation activities
Authors: Li Jiahe , Wang Donge , Ma Huaijun , Li Min , Pan Zhendong , Jiang Yuxia , Tian Zhijian
Published: April 2017

MoS2 double-shell polyhedral cages are synthesized via an ionic liquid assisted hydrothermal route and exhibit enhanced catalytic hydrogenation properties.
Metal-free direct alkylation of unfunctionalized allylic/benzylic sp3C–H bonds via photoredox induced radical cation deprotonation
Authors: Zhou Rong , Liu Haiwang , Tao Hairong , Yu Xingjian , Wu Jie
Published: April 2017

An unprecendented direct alkylation of unfunctionalized allylic/benzylic sp3C–H bondsviaphotoredox induced radical cation deprotonation is disclosed.
CuH-catalysed hydroamination of arylalkynes with hydroxylamine esters – a computational scrutiny of rival mechanistic pathways
Authors: Tobisch Sven
Published: April 2017

An in-depth computational mechanistic probe of the CuH-mediated hydroamination of internal arylalkynes with amine electrophile and hydrosilane defines the most accessible pathways for rival avenues of direct and reductive hydroamination, from which a general understanding of the factors controlling formal hydroamination catalysis emerges.
Triple mode spiral wideband bandpass filter using symmetric dual‐line coupling
Authors: Lalbakhsh A. , Karimi G. , Sabaghi F.
Published: April 2017

A compact wideband bandpass filter at the centre frequency of 5.77 GHz with 78% fractional bandwidth is presented. An especial coupling structure along with a novel triple mode spiral resonator designed based on modal analysis is used to provide a flat wide passband with excellent skirt characteristics. To verify the efficiency of the filter, a prototype is fabricated, tested and compared with some of the most recent works.
Defence against primary user emulation attack using statistical properties of the cognitive radio received power
Authors: Ghaznavi Mahsa , Jamshidi Ali
Published: April 2017

Cognitive radio (CR) is proposed to solve the spectrum scarcity problem. One of the significant issues which arises recently in CR networks is security threats. Most of the proposed methods to defend against the attacks need the previous knowledge about the system. In this study, the authors use the statistical characteristics of the users to address one of the important kinds of attacks called primary user emulation attack (PUEA). In the proposed scheme, the received power statistics of the CR users is used to detect the PUEA. The results show that their scheme has higher performance in detecting the primary transmission comparing with the previous works.
Robust classification model for PMU‐based on‐line power system DSA with missing data
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Xu Yan , Dong Zhao Yang
Published: April 2017

Wide‐area measurement system (WAMS) has been widely deployed in modern power systems to achieve data‐driven dynamic security assessment (DSA). Considering the unavailability of measurement data during unintentional events, a robust classification model for phasor measurement unit (PMU)‐based DSA is proposed. The proposed approach identifies the observability of different PMU combinations in the system and an ensemble of random vector functional link networks is trained with observability‐constrained feature subsets to ensure its viability under any PMU missing condition. Meanwhile, the available operating features are comprehensively utilised by the proposed classification model to support accurate DSA under both normal and abnormal data collection conditions. The proposed classification model is tested on New England 39‐bus system with high accuracy and strong robustness.
Dwarf nova outbursts in intermediate polars
Authors: Hameury J.-M. , Lasota J.-P.
Published: April 2017

Context. The disc instability model (DIM) has been very successful in explaining the dwarf nova outbursts observed in cataclysmic variables. When, as in intermediate polars, the accreting white dwarf is magnetised, the disc is truncated at the magnetospheric radius, but for mass-transfer rates corresponding to the thermal-viscous instability such systems should still exhibit dwarf-nova outbursts. Yet, the majority of intermediate polars, in which the magnetic field is not large enough to completely disrupt the accretion disc, seem to be stable, and the rare observed outbursts, in particular in systems with long orbital periods, are much shorter than normal dwarf-nova outbursts.

Aims. We investigate the predictions of the disc instability model for intermediate polars in order to determine which of the observed properties of these systems can be explained by the DIM.

Methods. We use our numerical code for the time evolution of accretion discs, modified to include the effects of the magnetic field, with constant or variable mass transfer from the secondary star.

Results. We show that intermediate polars have mass transfer low enough and magnetic fields large enough to keep the accretion disc stable on the cold equilibrium branch. We show that the infrequent and short outbursts observed in long-period systems, such as, for example, TV Col, cannot be attributed to the thermal-viscous instability of the accretion disc, but instead have to be triggered by an enhanced mass-transfer from the secondary, or, more likely, by some instability coupling the white dwarf magnetic field with that generated by the magnetorotational instability operating in the accretion disc. Longer outbursts (a few days) could result from the disc instability.
Going Round in Circles with N→S Acyl Transfer
Authors: Macmillan Derek
Published: April 2017

It is not highly sophisticated, yet the N→S acyl transfer reaction of a native peptide sequence potentially fills an important technology gap. While several routes to synthetic peptide thioesters exist, only one is routinely applicable for biologically derived samples. Using the naturally occurring amino acid cysteine as the sole activator for N→S acyl transfer we have demonstrated transformation of synthetic and biologically derived precursors into thioesters for use in Native Chemical Ligation, providing a viable alternative for biological samples. Further refinement will be key to realising the full potential of this intriguing process, and increase the number of applications in peptide engineering and therapeutics.

1 Introduction

2 N→S acyl transfer in ‘normal’ peptide sequences

3 Reduced reactivity of internal Xaa-Cys motifs as an advantage in head-to-tail peptide cyclisation

4 Reduced reactivity of internal Xaa-Cys motifs as an advantage in modification and cyclisation of biologically produced precursors

5 Hydrazinolysis of Xaa-Cys motifs and the acyl hydrazide as a stable thioester equivalent

6 Rapid thioester formation via an N→Se acyl shift

7 Outlook and conclusions
Rapid in Situ Generation of Benzene Diazonium Ions under Basic Aqueous Conditions from Bench-Stable Triazabutadienes
Authors: He Jie , Kimani Flora , Jewett John
Published: April 2017

Aryl diazonium ions are useful across a range of chemical/biochemical areas. These species are generally made using strongly acidic conditions, which can be detrimental to acid-sensitive functional groups. The ability to generate benzene diazonium ions under basic aqueous conditions is reported herein along with newfound understanding on the aqueous reactivity of solubilized triazabutadienes whereby π-interactions appear to confer a large degree of stability.
Ethylene Glycol Assisted Intermolecular Pauson–Khand Reaction
Authors: Cabré Albert , Verdaguer Xavier , Riera Antoni
Published: April 2017

The use of ethylene glycol as additive in the N-oxide-promoted intermolecular Pauson–Khand reaction (PKR) has been studied. The addition of 15% ethylene glycol to the reaction mixture consistently increased (from 20% up to 2–4-fold) the reaction yields.
Combination of Transforaminal and Interlaminar Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Diskectomy for Extensive Down-migrated Disk Herniation
Authors: Choi Kyung-Chul , Lee Jung , Lee Dong , Park Choon , Kim Jin-Sung
Published: April 2017

Background and Study Aims The technique and instrumentation of percutaneous endoscopic lumbar diskectomy (PELD) have significantly improved. Thus its indications have been gradually expanding. Down-migrated disk, in particular, is regarded inaccessible by rigid instrumentation due to poor visualization and limited accessibility. We introduce a combination of transforaminal and interlaminar PELD for extensive down-migrated disk herniation at the L4–L5 level.

Patients and Methods In the first case, a 48-year-old man had left L5 radicular pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that L4–L5 disk herniation extended to the L5 lower end-plate level. In the second case, a 39-year-old man presented with right L5 and S1 radiculopathy. MRI showed right huge extensive down-migrated disk herniation from the L4–L5 disk space to the S1 pedicle level. Back pain and leg pain were measured using the visual analog scale (VAS). In the first case, transforaminal PELD with foraminoplasty removed the disk fragment from the L4–L5 disk space to the mid-L5 pedicle level. Interlaminar PELD removed the remaining disk below the mid-L5 pedicle. In the second case, first, contralateral (left) transforaminal PELD at L4–L5 removed disk fragments located at the subannular and subligamentous area as well as the upper part of the down-migrated disk herniation. Second, interlaminar PELD via an ipsilateral (right) L5–S1 interlaminar space removed the remains of the extensively down-migrated disk herniation.

Results In the first case, the VAS scores for back and leg pain were improved from 6 and 8 to 2 and 1, respectively. Postoperative MRI showed complete removal of the disk fragment. In the second case, the VAS scores for back and leg pain improved from 7 and 9 to 3 and 1, respectively, after PELD. Postoperative MRI showed complete removal of a huge disk herniation. Both patients were discharged the day after PELD. Follow-up examinations showed no recurrence.

Conclusions It is difficult to remove entire disk fragments using only a transforaminal or interlaminar approach for extensive down-migrated disk herniation. Therefore a combination of transforaminal and interlaminar PELD may be effective for extensive down-migrated disk herniation at L4–L5.
Register der schwierigen chirurgischen Situationen
Authors: Korenkov Michael , Dralle Henning , Klar Ernst , Saad Stefan , Senninger Norbert , Standop Jens , Stier Albrecht , Strik Martin , Ulrich Alexis , Weiner Rudolf
Published: April 2017

Als schwierige chirurgische Situation wird jedes Problem, das zu einem erhöhten Risiko für intra- oder postoperative Komplikationen führen kann, bezeichnet. Bezogen auf diese Definition wurde von Korenkov et al. eine präoperative Klassifikation erweiterter intraoperativer Schwierigkeiten entwickelt. Diese Klassifikation bezieht sich auf das Ausmaß der chirurgisch-technischen Schwierigkeiten von Schweregrad 1 – technisch einfach zu operieren, bis Schweregrad 4 – jede operationstechnische Handlung ist sehr schwierig. Für die Evaluierung des Schweregrads der intraoperativen Komplikationen schlug die Arbeitsgruppe um Kaafarani die Klassifikation der intraoperativen negativen Ereignisse vor. In Abhängigkeit vom Schweregrad wurden die intraoperativen Komplikationen auf 6 Klassen von der 1. (unproblematisch beseitigte Komplikationen) bis zur 6. Klasse (intraoperativer Exitus letalis) aufgeteilt. Für eine Systematisierung des Schweregrads der postoperativen Komplikationen hat sich weltweit die Klassifikation von Clavien-Dindo etabliert. In dieser Klassifikation sind die postoperativen Komplikationen von Schweregrad 1 (jede Abweichung vom normalen postoperativen Verlauf mit „minimaler“ Behandlung) bis zum Schweregrad 5 (Tod des Patienten) aufgeteilt. Gestützt auf die vorgeschlagenen Klassifikationen und auf die Problematik der individuellen Entscheidungen in der Chirurgie entstand die Grundidee, ein Register (SCS-Register) zu etablieren. Das Hauptprinzip solcher Studien ist die Ansammlung der individuellen Erfahrungen von operierenden Chirurgen. Die wissenschaftliche Analyse fokussiert sich auf die Sondersituationen, bei denen das Behandlungskonzept an die individuelle Patientensituation adaptiert war und manchmal von den gängigen Standards abwich. Die Registrierung und Bearbeitung der angemeldeten Fälle wird auf der Basis der entsprechenden IT-Plattform anonym geführt. Das Ziel dieses Registers ist, die schwierigen chirurgischen Fälle bundesweit zu sammeln, zu registrieren und zu analysieren, um für die operierenden Chirurgen eine zugängliche Datenbank zu gestalten. Dabei wird für jeden Chirurgen die Möglichkeit bestehen, nachzulesen, wie der eine oder andere Kollege in ähnlich schwierigen Situationen gehandelt hat.