bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysregulation of glucose metabolism since young adulthood increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Chen Pao‐Huan , Lin Yen‐Kuang , Chang Chi‐Kang , Chiang Shuo‐Ju , Tsai Shang‐Ying
Published: August 2017

Aging patients with bipolar disorder (BD) are at a high risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, few studies have directly examined the association between metabolic risks and CVDs in patients with BD across the lifespan. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine lifetime metabolic risk factors for CVDs in patients with BD. We recruited BD‐I patients who were more than 50 years old and had had at least one psychiatric hospitalization. Patients who had a cardiologist‐confirmed CVD diagnosis (ICD‐9 code 401–414) were assigned to the case group. Fifty‐five cases were matched with 55 control patient without CVDs based on age and sex. Clinical data were obtained by retrospectively reviewing 30 years of hospital records. Compared to control subjects, a significantly higher proportion of cases had impaired fasting glucose between ages 31 and 40 (44.0% versus 17.4%, p = 0.046), diabetes mellitus between ages 41 and 50 (25.6% versus 8.6%, p = 0.054), and diabetes mellitus after age 51 (36.3% versus 12.7%, p = 0.005). No significant difference was found in overweight, obesity, or dyslipidemia. After adjusting for years of education, first episode as mania, and second generation antipsychotic use, lifetime diabetes mellitus remained a risk factor for CVDs (OR = 4.45, 95% CI = 1.89–10.66, p = 0.001). The findings suggest that glucose dysregulation across the adult age span is probably the major metabolic risk contributing to CVDs in patients with BD. Clinicians therefore have to notice the serum fasting glucose levels of BD patients since young adulthood.
The use of rapid onset fentanyl in children and young people for breakthrough cancer pain
Authors: Coombes Lucy , Burke Kimberley , Anderson Anna-Karenia
Published: August 2017

Background and aims

No published studies have looked at the dosing and use of rapid onset fentanyl preparations in children. The primary aim of this study was to assess whether there is a correlation between effective dose of rapid onset fentanyl and background oral morphine equivalent analgesia in children less than 18 years old. Secondary objectives included establishing whether there is a correlation between effective dose of rapid onset fentanyl and age and weight. Reported side effects were also reviewed.

Methods

This study is a retrospective case note review of all children less than 18 years old who received rapid onset fentanyl products in a tertiary paediatric oncology centre in England between 2010 and 2015. Correlations were analysed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient as data was non-parametric.

Results

Data on 26 children (5-17 yrs; 13-100 kg) was analysed. The most common diagnosis in children being given rapid onset fentanyl products was a solid tumour (84.6%). Eleven children used sublingual tablets, 17 used lozenges and one used a fentanyl nasal spray (three patients used two different preparations). The only significant correlation found was between dose of fentanyl lozenge and weight (r

s
= 0.81, p < 0.001). Very few side effects were reported with the most frequent being nausea (8%) and sleepiness (8%).

Conclusions

Fentanyl lozenges seem to be safe and well tolerated in children as young as five years old, weighing as little as 13 kg. Results suggest that children should always be started on the lowest available dose of chosen preparation and that this dose should be titrated according to response.

This study demonstrates that there is no correlation between background opioid dose and effective dose of rapid onset fentanyl in children. This mirrors findings of similar studies in adults. There was a strong correlation between effective dose of fentanyl lozenge and weight. This may be in part due to clinicians being more inclined to increase fentanyl lozenge doses as the child is in control of when they have had enough medication. In contrast, buccal tablets are absorbed quickly and the child always receives the full dose, making clinicians more reluctant to titrate the dose.

Implications

This article presents initial evidence for feasibility and tolerability of fentanyl lozenges in children as young as five years old, who are on relatively low doses of background opioids. This could be of interest to clinicians who are looking for alternatives to oral opioids to manage breakthrough pain in children with cancer.
An Introduction to Description Logic
Authors: Baader Franz , Horrocks Ian , Lutz Carsten , Sattler Uli
Published: August 2017

Description logics (DLs) have a long tradition in computer science and knowledge representation, being designed so that domain knowledge can be described and so that computers can reason about this knowledge. DLs have recently gained increased importance since they form the logical basis of widely used ontology languages, in particular the web ontology language OWL. Written by four renowned experts, this is the first textbook on description logics. It is suitable for self-study by graduates and as the basis for a university course. Starting from a basic DL, the book introduces the reader to their syntax, semantics, reasoning problems and model theory and discusses the computational complexity of these reasoning problems and algorithms to solve them. It then explores a variety of reasoning techniques, knowledge-based applications and tools and it describes the relationship between DLs and OWL.
Descriptive Complexity, Canonisation, and Definable Graph Structure Theory
Authors: Grohe Martin
Published: August 2017

Descriptive complexity theory establishes a connection between the computational complexity of algorithmic problems (the computational resources required to solve the problems) and their descriptive complexity (the language resources required to describe the problems). This groundbreaking book approaches descriptive complexity from the angle of modern structural graph theory, specifically graph minor theory. It develops a 'definable structure theory' concerned with the logical definability of graph theoretic concepts such as tree decompositions and embeddings. The first part starts with an introduction to the background, from logic, complexity, and graph theory, and develops the theory up to first applications in descriptive complexity theory and graph isomorphism testing. It may serve as the basis for a graduate-level course. The second part is more advanced and mainly devoted to the proof of a single, previously unpublished theorem: properties of graphs with excluded minors are decidable in polynomial time if, and only if, they are definable in fixed-point logic with counting.
Why Does Canada Have So Many Unresolved Maritime Boundary Disputes?
Authors: BYERS MICHAEL , ØSTHAGEN ANDREAS
Published: August 2017

Canada has five unresolved maritime boundaries. This might seem like a high number, given that Canada has only three neighbours: the United States, Denmark (Greenland), and France (St. Pierre and Miquelon). This article explores why Canada has so many unresolved maritime boundaries. It does so through a comparison with Norway, which has settled all of its maritime boundaries, most notably in the Barents Sea with Russia. This comparison illuminates some of the factors that motivate or impede maritime boundary negotiations. It turns out that the status of each maritime boundary can only be explained on the basis of its own unique geographic, historic, political, and legal context. Canada’s unresolved maritime boundaries are the result of circumstances specific to each of them and not of a particular policy approach in Ottawa.
ANAXIMANDER'S SPARTAN SUNDIAL
Authors: Thibodeau Philip
Published: August 2017

As the author of the earliest secular account of the universe's formation, Anaximander of Miletus can lay a strong claim to the title of first Greek cosmologist. Tradition also credited him with invention of the first time-telling instruments: ‘He was the first to constructgnomonsfor the identification of solstices, time spans,horaiand the equinox’ (οὗτος πρῶτος γνώμονας κατεσκεύασε πρὸς διάγνωσιν τροπῶν τε ἡλίου καὶ χρόνων καὶ ὡρῶν καὶ ἰσημερίας, Euseb.Praep. evang. 10.14.11). This paper reconstructs the location, design and function of a γνώμων which he erected at Sparta, and moots some intriguing parallels with the Augustan Horologium on the Campus Martius. Before we turn to the evidence, however, two points of terminology need to be clarified. The Greek term γνώμων can denote either a sundial—a pointer attached to a surface with marks for tracking its shadow—or the pointer itself, in English also called the gnomon; Eusebius’ reference to the identification of times suggests that what Anaximander created was in fact a sundial. Now, depending on its design, a sundial can tell either the hour of the day, the season of the year, or both; from Eusebius’ text it is not clear which function Anaximander's dial possessed, since the noun ὧραι can mean either ‘hours’ or ‘seasons’. But only one usage of the word would be appropriate for the sixth century: no authors refer to hours of the day prior to Herodotus (2.109) and there is no evidence for Greek sundials displaying hours prior toc.350b.c.; by contrast, the use of ὥρα to mean ‘season of the year’ is as old as Homer and Hesiod, and the solstices and equinoxes mentioned by Eusebius demarcate the transitions between the seasons. Anaximander's device was a sundial, then, one which tracked seasons rather than hours. According to Diogenes Laertius, the cosmologist set up one such device at Sparta (2.1).
Mobile bodies of meaning: city life and the horizons of possibility
Authors: Agbiboa Daniel E.
Published: August 2017

Despite their centrality to the rhythm and practice of everyday urban life, there are, surprisingly, few studies on commercial minibus-taxis as a microcosm of city life in Africa, especially its precarious materiality. Using the trademark yellow minibus-taxis (danfos) in Lagos as a frame of reference, this paper explores what an interpretative analysis of the slogans thatdanfoworkers paint on their vehicles can tell us about the city in which they weave their routine existence, especially the hopes, fears and actual material circumstances which informed their unique choice of slogans. Foregrounding thedanfosas mobile bodies of meaning, the article finds that slogans not only reflect the lived realities ofdanfoworkers, but are themselves vital means through which these workers get by, define their identity and expand their horizons of possibility.
First report on abundance and distribution of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the NATURA 2000 area, Istria, North-eastern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Ribarič Darja
Published: August 2017

The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatusM.) local population off west Istria in the North-eastern Adriatic has received no prior study of abundance and distribution despite the habitat's relevance for the preservation of this key species in the marine ecosystem. The research area comprises part of the NATURA 2000 network which was predominantly established here for these dolphins. Official data regarding the local population's status in the region are currently marked as deficient. Thus, the aim of the present study was to provide the first population data for the area. Boat-based survey work was carried out from April to September 2012–2015 using a mark–recapture photo-identification method. Prior to this period a random data collection was used to study distribution, since 2001, to cover the area of 927 km2lying between Umag to lighthouse Albanež in the south. 143 bottlenose dolphins were photo-identified to date with the average group size of 9.27 ± 6.53 animals. Several abundance models were used, from which the Markovian robust model proved the best fit and predicted between 47–142 dolphins along the west Istria coast. A few individuals were also identified in Slovenia, indicating a bigger home range along the 98 km length of the studied area. There is an indication of a regular year round presence of dolphins. The west Istria coast constitutes an important feeding and breeding ground. The region should develop a sustainable plan to manage those human activities negatively impacting the dolphins. Therefore the present study is of relevance for the implementation of management directives for their conservation.
Missing Girls, Indirect Measures and Critical Assumptions: A Response to Yong Cai's Comments
Authors: Shi Yaojiang , Kennedy John James
Published: August 2017

We thank Yong Cai for his comments and insights regarding our piece on the “missing girls.” We also recognize and appreciate his expertise in the field of population studies. In short, we agree that we have overestimated the number of nominally missing girls and that the number of hidden or recovered girls may be closer to 10 million or half of the truly missing girls rather than 15 million. Of course, the number of truly missing girls is inconclusive due to the lack of direct measures and the reliance on proxy measures such as previous census data, surveys and state education data. Given the absence of direct measures for the truly missing, scholars also rely on assumptions of villager behaviour and local policy implementation, such as the continued prevalence of son preference as well as the implementation of birth control measures across rural China. Our aim for the “missing girls” article is not to solely challenge the numbers (because we realize the margin of error is in the millions), but we want to challenge the social and political assumptions behind the truly missing. Therefore, we believe the debate over the general estimates of the truly missing is real and should continue.
Enemy Women and the Laws of War in the American Civil War
Authors: McCurry Stephanie
Published: August 2017

One of the most important legacies of the American Civil War, not just in the re-united States of America but also in the nineteenth and twentieth century world, were the new laws of war that the conflict introduced. “Lieber's Code,” named after the man who authored it for the Lincoln administration, was a set of instructions written and issued in April 1863 to govern the conduct of “the armies of the United States in the field.” It became a template for all subsequent codes, including the Hague and Geneva conventions. Widely understood as a radical revision of the laws of war and a complete break with the Enlightenment tradition, the code, like the war that gave rise to it, reflected the new post-Napoleonic age of “people's wars.” As such, it pointed forward, if not as the expression of the first total war, then at least as an expression of the first modern one, with all the blurring of boundaries that involved.
Adaptive evolution of rhizobial symbiotic compatibility mediated by co-evolved insertion sequences
Authors: Zhao Ran , Liu Li Xue , Zhang Yun Zeng , Jiao Jian , Cui Wen Jing , Zhang Biliang , Wang Xiao Lin , Li Meng Lin , Chen Yi , Xiong Zhu Qing , Chen Wen Xin , Tian Chang Fu
Published: August 2017

Mutualism between bacteria and eukaryotes has essential roles in the history of life, but the evolution of their compatibility is poorly understood. Here we show that different Sinorhizobium strains can form either nitrogen-fixing nodules or uninfected pseudonodules on certain cultivated soybeans, while being all effective microsymbionts of some wild soybeans. However, a few well-infected nodules can be found on a commercial soybean using inocula containing a mixed pool of Tn5 insertion mutants derived from an incompatible strain. Reverse genetics and genome sequencing of compatible mutants demonstrated that inactivation of T3SS (type three secretion system) accounted for this phenotypic change. These mutations in the T3SS gene cluster were dominated by parallel transpositions of insertion sequences (ISs) other than the introduced Tn5. This genetic and phenotypic change can also be achieved in an experimental evolution scenario on a laboratory time scale using incompatible wild-type strains as inocula. The ISs acting in the adaptive evolution of Sinorhizobium strains exhibit broader phyletic and replicon distributions than other ISs, and prefer target sequences of low GC% content, a characteristic feature of symbiosis plasmid where T3SS genes are located. These findings suggest an important role of co-evolved ISs in the adaptive evolution of rhizobial compatibility.
Der f 31, a novel allergen from Dermatophagoides farinae, activates epithelial cells and enhances lung-resident group 2 innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Wang Hui , Lin Jianli , Zeng Lu , Ouyang Chunyan , Ran Pixin , Yang Pingchang , Liu Zhigang
Published: August 2017

Airway epithelial cell-derived thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and IL-33 can enhance lung-resident group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s), and they play an important role in the development of allergic diseases. This study tests the hypothesis that Der f 31 (Dermatophagoides farinae-31), an allergen, modulates airway epithelial cell functions and increases the frequency of lung ILC2s. Our previous research identified cofilin (Der f 31) as a novel allergen. In this study, we found that recombinant Der f 31 (r-Der f 31) upregulated the expression of co-stimulatory molecules in DCs and promoted Th2-skewed polarization. The levels of TSLP and IL-33 in epithelial cells were upregulated by r-Der f 31 via the activation of Toll-like receptor 2. Furthermore, in in vivo studies, r-Der f 31 induced eosinophil-like airway allergy and increased the number of lung-resident ILC2s. In summary, Der f 31 can modulate the functions of airway epithelial cells and increase levels of lung-resident ILC2s.
Tracing nitrate sources with dual isotopes and long term monitoring of nitrogen species in the Yellow River, China
Authors: Yue Fu-Jun , Li Si-Liang , Liu Cong-Qiang , Zhao Zhi-Qi , Ding Hu
Published: August 2017

A heavy load of nitrogenous compounds reflects nutrient loss and influences water quality in large rivers. Nitrogenous concentrations and dual isotopes of nitrate were measured to ascertain the spatial and temporal distributions of nitrate transformation in the Yellow River, the second-longest river in China. Assessment of the long-term record indicates that [NO3−–N] has increased by two-fold over the past three decades. Weekly observation of ammonium over a twelve-year period revealed high concentrations and suggests impairment of water quality, particularly since 2011. The estimated total dissolved nitrogen flux was 7.2 times higher in middle reaches than that at head waters. Anthropogenic nitrogen sources become more important in lower section of the upper reaches and middle reaches because of intensive agricultural activities and urban input. Nitrate in the lower reaches was mainly derived from transportation of upstream nitrate and point sources from cities. The spatial variation of ammonium and nitrate isotopes show that nitrification is a key process governing nitrogen transformation. Riverine biological processes could potentially be responsible for the shift of nitrate isotope signature. The first step to reducing nitrogen load and improving water quality will be containment and careful management of sources from urban input, sewage waste and irrigation runoff.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of SE initial dedifferentiation in cotton of different SE capability
Authors: Cao Aiping , Zheng Yinying , Yu Yu , Wang Xuwen , Shao Dongnan , Sun Jie , Cui Baiming
Published: August 2017

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a critical transition from vegetative to embryogenic growth in higher plants; however, few studies have investigated the mechanism that regulates SE initial differentiation. Most cotton varieties have not undergone regeneration by SE, so only a few varieties can be used in genetic engineering. Here, two varieties of cotton with different SE capabilities (HD, higher differentiation and LD, lower differentiation) were analyzed by high throughout RNA-Seq at the pre-induction stage (0h) and two induction stages (3h and 3d) under callus-induction medium (CIM). About 1150 million clean reads were obtained from 98.21% raw data. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that “protein kinase activity” and “oxidoreductase activity” were highly represented GO terms during the same and different treatment stages among HD and LD. Moreover, several stress-related transcription factors might play important roles in SE initiation. The SE-related regulation genes (SERKs) showed different expression patterns between HD and LD. Furthermore, the complex auxin and ethylene signaling pathway contributes to initiation of differentiation in SE. Thus, our RNA-sequencing of comparative transcriptome analysis will lay a foundation for future studies to better define early somatic formation in cotton with different SE capabilities.
Oblique scanning laser microscopy for simultaneously volumetric structural and molecular imaging using only one raster scan
Authors: Zhang Lei , Capilla Amalia , Song Weiye , Mostoslavsky Gustavo , Yi Ji
Published: August 2017

Multi-modal three dimensional (3D) optical imaging combining both structural sensitivity and molecular specificity is highly desirable in biomedical research. In this paper, we present a method termed oblique scanning laser microscopy (OSLM) to combine optical coherence tomography (OCT), for simultaneously volumetric structural and molecular imaging with cellular resolution in all three dimensions. Conventional 3D laser scanning fluorescence microscopy requires repeated optical sectioning to create z-stacks in depth. Here, the use of an obliquely scanning laser eliminates the z-stacking process, then allows highly efficient 3D OCT and fluorescence imaging by using only one raster scan. The current setup provides ~3.6 × 4.2 × 6.5 μm resolution in fluorescence imaging, ~7 × 7 × 3.5 μm in OCT in three dimensions, and the current speed of imaging is up to 100 frames per second (fps) over a volume about 0.8 × 1 × 0.5 mm3. We demonstrate several mechanisms for molecular imaging, including intrinsically expressed GFP fluorescence, autofluorescence from Flavin proteins, and exogenous antibody-conjugated dyes. We also demonstrate potential applications in imaging human intestinal organoids (HIOs), colon mucosa, and retina.
Anti-inflammatory drugs suppress ultrasound-mediated mesenchymal stromal cell tropism to kidneys
Authors: Burks Scott R. , Nguyen Ben A. , Bresler Michele N. , Nagle Matthew E. , Kim Saejeong J. , Frank Joseph A.
Published: August 2017

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are potential renal therapeutics. Clinically, results are mixed partly because MSC tropism to kidneys is minimal following infusion. Ultrasound augmentation of the renal microenvironment is becoming increasingly-important in renal MSC therapies. We demonstrated pulsed-focused-ultrasound (pFUS) increases enhanced homing permeability and retention of MSC in mouse kidneys. Here, we characterized the temporal proteomic response to pFUS in mouse kidneys and its association with MSC tropism. pFUS induced molecular cascades of initial increases in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and interleukin (IL)-1α, that activated nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) pathways without cell death. This was followed by a 24–48 hour-long response of increased cell adhesion molecules (CAM), trophic and anti-inflammatory factors. Pretreating animals with anti-inflammatory drugs etanercept (TNFα inhibitor), anakinra (IL-1 receptor antagonist), prednisone (NFκB translocation inhibitor), or ibuprofen (COX inhibitor) suppressed molecular changes and inhibited renal MSC tropism. We further examined the role of COX2 using a COX2-knock-out mouse where pFUS was unable to increase MSC tropism. These results demonstrate that renal micro-environmental changes induce MSC tropism and could influence the therapeutic efficacy of MSC. Optimizing the microenvironment and understanding drug effects will enable improvements in MSC therapies for renal disease.
A novel in vitro potency assay of antisera against Thai Naja kaouthia based on nicotinic acetylcholine receptor binding
Authors: Ratanabanangkoon Kavi , Simsiriwong Pavinee , Pruksaphon Kritsada , Tan Kae Yi , Eursakun Sukanya , Tan Choo Hock , Chantrathonkul Bunkuea , Wongwadhunyoo Wongsakorn , Youngchim Sirida , Tan Nget Hong
Published: August 2017

Snake envenomation is an important medical problem. One of the hurdles in antivenom development is the in vivo assay of antivenom potency which is expensive, gives variable results and kills many animals. We report a novel in vitro assay involving the specific binding of the postsynaptic neurotoxins (PSNTs) of elapid snakes with purified Torpedo californica nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). The potency of an antivenom is determined by its antibody ability to bind and neutralize the PSNT, thus preventing it from binding to nAChR. The PSNT of Naja kaouthia (NK3) was immobilized on microtiter wells and nAChR was added to bind with it. The in vitro IC50 of N. kaouthia venom that inhibited 50% of nAChR binding to the immobilized NK3 was determined. Varying concentrations of antisera against N. kaouthia were separately pre-incubated with 5xIC50 of N. kaouthia venom. The remaining free NK3 were incubated with nAChR before adding to the NK3 coated plates. The in vitro and in vivo median effective ratio, ER50s of 12 batches of antisera showed correlation (R2) of 0.9809 (p < 0.0001). This in vitro assay should be applicable to antisera against other elapid venoms and should reduce the use of live animals and accelerate development of life-saving antivenoms.
Convergent and divergent genetic changes in the genome of Chinese and European pigs
Authors: Wang Jing , Zou Huiying , Chen Lei , Long Xi , Lan Jing , Liu Wenjie , Ma Li , Wang Chao , Xu Xinyu , Ren Liming , Gu Zhenglong , Li Ning , Hu Xiaoxiang , Zhao Yaofeng , Zhao Yiqiang
Published: August 2017

Since 10,000 BC, continuous human selection has led to intense genetic and phenotypic changes in pig (Sus scrofa) domestication. Through whole genome analysis of 257 individuals, we demonstrated artificial unidirectional and bidirectional selection as the primary force to shape the convergent and divergent changes between Chinese domestic pigs (CHD) and European domestic pigs (EUD). We identified 31 genes in unidirectional selection regions that might be related to fundamental domestication requirements in pigs. And these genes belong predominantly to categories related to the nervous system, muscle development, and especially to metabolic diseases. In addition, 35 genes, representing different breeding preference, were found under bidirectional selection for the distinct leanness and reproduction traits between CHD and EUD. The convergent genetic changes, contributing physical and morphological adaption, represent the common concerns on pig domestication. And the divergent genetic changes reflect distinct breeding goals between Chinese and European pigs. Using ITPR3, AHR and NMU as examples, we explored and validated how the genetic variations contribute to the phenotype changes.
Artificial DnaJ Protein for protein production and conformational diseases
Authors: Hishiya Akinori , Koya Keizo
Published: August 2017

For secreted proteins, proper protein folding is essential not only for biological function but also for secretion itself. Proteins with folding problems are trapped in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and are eventually degraded in the cytoplasm. In this study, we exploited co-expression of an artificial fusion protein, based on the sequence of a DnaJ protein, which could interact as co-chaperones in the Hsp70-based protein-folding system, with target recombinant secreted proteins to enhance their production and secretion. The J-domain sequence or a fragment thereof was conjugated to a target protein–binding domain that was capable of binding to a portion of the target-protein sequence. Production of many of the target proteins was significantly upregulated when co-expressed with the J-domain fusion protein. Surprisingly, the enhancement of secretion was observed even when the J-domain had a mutation in the HPD motif, which is necessary for J-protein–Hsp70 interactions, suggesting the phenomenon observed is independent on functional J-protein–Hsp70 interactions. This technology has great potential for not only enhancing the production of recombinant proteins, but also to treat conformational diseases such as cystic fibrosis, and Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.
A theory for spiral wave drift induced by ac and polarized electric fields in chemical excitable media
Authors: Li Teng-Chao , Gao Xiang , Zheng Fei-Fei , Pan De-Bei , Zheng Bo , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2017

Spiral waves are shown to undergo directional drifts in the presence of ac and polarized electric fields when their frequencies are twice of the spiral frequencies. Here, we propose a quantitative description for the spiral wave drift induced by weak electric fields, and provide the explicit equations for the spiral wave drift speed and direction. Numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate the quantitative agreement with analytical results in both weakly and highly excitable media.
A symbiotic-like biologically-driven regenerating fabric
Authors: Raab Neta , Davis Joe , Spokoini-Stern Rachel , Kopel Moran , Banin Ehud , Bachelet Ido
Published: August 2017

Living organisms constantly maintain their structural and biochemical integrity by the critical means of response, healing, and regeneration. Inanimate objects, on the other hand, are axiomatically considered incapable of responding to damage and healing it, leading to the profound negative environmental impact of their continuous manufacturing and trashing. Objects with such biological properties would be a significant step towards sustainable technology. In this work we present a feasible strategy for driving regeneration in fabric by means of integration with a bacterial biofilm to obtain a symbiotic-like hybrid - the fabric provides structural framework to the biofilm and supports its growth, whereas the biofilm responds to mechanical tear by synthesizing a silk protein engineered to self-assemble upon secretion from the cells. We propose the term crossbiosis to describe this and other hybrid systems combining organism and object. Our strategy could be implemented in other systems and drive sensing of integrity and response by regeneration in other materials as well.
Ultrafast Response in AC-Driven Electrochemiluminescent Cell Using Electrochemically Active DNA/Ru(bpy)3
2+ Hybrid Film with Mesoscopic Structures
Authors: Tsuneyasu Shota , Takahashi Ryota , Minami Haruki , Nakamura Kazuki , Kobayashi Norihisa
Published: August 2017

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) refers to light emission induced by an electrochemical redox reaction. The stability, emission response, and light intensity of the ECL device are known to be improved by using an alternating current (AC) voltage. In this paper, an AC-driven ECL device is fabricated with DNA/Ru(bpy)32+ hybrid film-modified electrode. The Ru(bpy)32+ complex exhibits significant electrochemical reactivity in the DNA/Ru(bpy)32+ hybrid film prepared by electrochemical adsorption. The hybrid film contains unique micrometre-scale aggregates of Ru(bpy)32+ in DNA matrix. The physicochemical properties of the hybrid film and its AC-driven ECL characteristics in the electrochemical device are studied. Orange-coloured ECL is observed to be emitted from only the aggregated structures in the hybrid film at the high AC frequency of 10 kHz, which corresponds to a response time shorter than 100 μs.
Biology, physiology and gene expression of grasshopper Oedaleus asiaticus exposed to diet stress from plant secondary compounds
Authors: Huang Xunbing , Ma Jingchuan , Qin Xinghu , Tu Xiongbing , Cao Guangchun , Wang Guangjun , Nong Xiangqun , Zhang Zehua
Published: August 2017

We studied the role of plant primary and secondary metabolites in mediating plant-insect interactions by conducting a no-choice single-plant species field experiment to compare the suitability, enzyme activities, and gene expression ofOedaleus asiaticusgrasshoppers feeding on four host and non-host plants with different chemical traits.O. asiaticusgrowth showed a positive relationship to food nutrition content and a negative relationship to secondary compounds content. Grasshopper amylase, chymotrypsin, and lipase activities were positively related to food starch, crude protein, and lipid content, respectively. Activity of cytochrome P450s, glutathione-S-transferase, and carboxylesterase were positively related to levels of secondary plant compounds. Gene expression of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2C1, cytochrome P450 6K1 were also positively related to secondary compounds content in the diet. Grasshoppers feeding onArtemisia frigida, a species with low nutrient content and a high level of secondary compounds, had reduced growth and digestive enzyme activity. They also had higher detoxification enzyme activity and gene expression compared to grasshoppers feeding on the grassesCleistogenes squarrosa,Leymus chinensis, orStipa krylovii. These results illustratedOedaleus asiaticusadaptive responses to diet stress resulting from toxic chemicals, and support the hypothesis that nutritious food benefits insect growth, but plant secondary compounds are detrimental for insect growth.
Suppression for an intermediate phase in ZnSb films by NiO-doping
Authors: Li Chao , Wang Guoxiang , Qi Dongfeng , Shi Daotian , Zhang Xianghua , Wang Hui
Published: August 2017

The structural evolution and phase-change kinetics of NiO-doped ZnSb films are investigated. NiO-doped ZnSb films exhibit a single-step crystallization process, which is different from that of undoped ZnSb. NiO-doped ZnSb can directly crystallize into a stable ZnSb phase at temperatures greater than 320 °C with suppression of a metastable ZnSb phase. These characteristics enlarge the amorphous/crystalline resistance ratio by approximately five orders of magnitude. Moreover, NiO doping of ZnSb films increases crystallization temperature from 260 to 275 °C, improves data retention temperature from 201.7 to 217.3 °C and increases crystalline activation energy from 5.64 to 6.34 eV. The improvement of the thermal parameters in the nanocomposite can be attributed to stable ZnSb grain growth refinement owing to the dispersion of NiO particles in the sample matrix. This provides additional nucleation sites and produces more ZnSb/NiO interfaces, which can initiate the nucleation and accelerate crystallization. The kinetic exponent n decreases from 1.12 to 0.44, which confirms the ultrafast one-dimensional growth and heterogeneous phase transition of the NiO-doped ZnSb films. The improved thermal stability, larger resistance ratio and direct transition to a stable phase with ultrafast one-dimensional crystal growth indicate the good potential of these materials in phase-change memory applications.
A magnetoelectric flux gate: new approach for weak DC magnetic field detection
Authors: Chu Zhaoqiang , Shi Huaduo , PourhosseiniAsl Mohammad Javad , Wu Jingen , Shi Weiliang , Gao Xiangyu , Yuan Xiaoting , Dong Shuxiang
Published: August 2017

The magnetic flux gate sensors based on Faraday’s Law of Induction are widely used for DC or extremely low frequency magnetic field detection. Recently, as the fast development of multiferroics and magnetoelectric (ME) composite materials, a new technology based on ME coupling effect is emerging for potential devices application. Here, we report a magnetoelectric flux gate sensor (MEFGS) for weak DC magnetic field detection for the first time, which works on a similar magnetic flux gate principle, but based on ME coupling effect. The proposed MEFGS has a shuttle-shaped configuration made of amorphous FeBSi alloy (Metglas) serving as both magnetic and magnetostrictive cores for producing a closed-loop high-frequency magnetic flux and also a longitudinal vibration, and one pair of embedded piezoelectric PMN-PT fibers ([011]-oriented Pb(Mg,Nb)O3-PbTiO3 single crystal) serving as ME flux gate in a differential mode for detecting magnetic anomaly. In this way, the relative change in output signal of the MEFGS under an applied DC magnetic anomaly of 1 nT was greatly enhanced by a factor of 4 to 5 in comparison with the previous reports. The proposed ME flux gate shows a great potential for magnetic anomaly detections, such as magnetic navigation, magnetic based medical diagnosis, etc.
Targeting the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis with the peptide antagonist E5 to inhibit breast tumor progression
Authors: Guo Hua , Ge Yangyang , Li Xiaojin , Yang Yanlian , Meng Jie , Liu Jian , Wang Chen , Xu Haiyan
Published: August 2017

Emerging evidence has demonstrated that stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) and its cognate receptor CXCR4 have critical roles in tumorigenesis, angiogenesis and metastasis. In this study, we demonstrated the significant inhibitory effects of a novel chemically synthetic peptide (E5) on the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis in breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo. E5 was capable of specifically binding to the murine breast cancer cell line 4T1, remarkably inhibiting CXCL12- or stromal cell (MS-5)-induced migration, and adhesion and sensitizing 4T1 cells to multiple chemotherapeutic drugs. Furthermore, E5 combined with either paclitaxel or cyclophosphamide significantly inhibited tumor growth in a breast cancer model. Mechanistic studies implied that E5 can inhibit the expression of CXCR4 to block the CXCL12-mediated recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells and repress CXCR4 downstream of the Akt and Erk signaling pathway, which are involved in tumor angiogenesis and progression. Further pharmacokinetic evaluation suggested that E5 has an acceptable stability, with a half-life of 10 h in healthy mice. In conclusion, E5 demonstrates a promising anti-tumor effect and could be a potential chemotherapeutic sensitizer to improve current clinical breast cancer therapies.
One step synthesis of γ-alkylidenebutenolides from simple vinyl carboxylic acids and alkenes
Authors: Yu Chunbing , Zhang Jian , Zhong Guofu
Published: August 2017

A tandem cross-coupling/oxa-Michael addition/dehydrogenation process is described, providing one-step synthesis of γ-alkylidenebutenolides from vinyl carboxylic acids and alkenes.
A new synthetic route to in-chain metallopolymers via copper(i) catalyzed azide–platinum–acetylide iClick
Authors: Beto C. C. , Holt E. D. , Yang Y. , Ghiviriga I. , Schanze K. S. , Veige A. S.
Published: August 2017

The first example of an in-chain metallo-poly(triazolate) synthesized by CuAAC is reported.
Flexibility in metal–organic frameworks derived from positional and electronic effects of functional groups
Authors: Ha Hyeonbin , Hahm Hyungwoo , Jwa Dong Gyun , Yoo Kwangho , Park Myung Hwan , Yoon Minyoung , Kim Youngjo , Kim Min
Published: August 2017

The position of functional groups and the subsequent e-density of the benzene rings in a bi-/tri-functionalized zinc-based metal–organic framework (MOF) have been controlled to reveal structural differences.
Current trends in atomic mass spectrometry for the speciation and imaging of metal-based nanomaterials
Authors: Tsz-Shan Lum Judy , Sze-Yin Leung Kelvin
Published: August 2017

With the rapid development and growing number of applications of metal-based nanomaterials (metal-based NMs), it is of vital importance to evaluate their impact on both environmental and biological systems.
Chip-scale alignment of long DNA nanofibers on a patterned self-assembled monolayer
Authors: Xia J. , Su M.
Published: August 2017

Centimeter-long genomic DNA nanofibers produced by the interplay between surface tension and electrostatic force of micro-patterns.
Up-conversion luminescence of rare earth-doped KGd(WO4)2 phosphors for tunable multicolour light generation
Authors: Kasprowicz D. , Głuchowski P. , Maciejewska B. M. , Chrunik M. , Majchrowski A.
Published: August 2017

A series of novel KGd(WO4)2 crystalline powders doped with Yb3+/Tm3+, Yb3+/Er3+ and Yb3+/Ho3+ were synthesized using a modified Pechini method.
Colorimetric detection of heparin with high sensitivity based on the aggregation of gold nanoparticles induced by polymer nanoparticles
Authors: Qu Fei , Liu Yanqun , Lao Haili , Wang Yaping , You Jinmao
Published: August 2017

The negatively charged heparin hinders the aggregation of Au nanoparticles induced by the cationic polymer nanodots.
BODIPY dyads from a,c-biladiene salts
Authors: Savoldelli Andrea , Paolesse Roberto , Fronczek Frank R. , Smith Kevin M. , Vicente M. Graça H.
Published: August 2017

Asymmetric BODIPY dyads are synthesized from a,c-biladiene salts in good yields. The reactivity of a 5,5′-dibromo-BODIPY dyad was investigated.
Porous double network gels with high toughness, high stretchability and fast solvent-absorption
Authors: Sun Bingjie , Wang Zhijian , He Qiguang , Fan Wei , Cai Shengqiang
Published: August 2017

We report the preparation of porous double network hydrogels with different pore sizes. These porous gels exhibit excellent mechanical properties, fast solvent-absorption and higher solvent-absorption capacity.
A POSS based hydrogel with mechanical robustness, cohesiveness and a rapid self-healing ability by electrostatic interaction
Authors: Pu Wanfen , Jiang Feng , Chen Pei , Wei Bing
Published: August 2017

A molecularly dispersed nano-material called POSS–NH2–AA was synthesized to construct a hybrid hydrogel with a rapid self-healing ability (stress 8 kPa) and excellent mechanical performance (a strain of 4683% and a stress of 37.8 kPa).
Protein CoAlation: a redox-linked post-translational modification
Authors: Ley Steven C. , de Carvalho Luiz Pedro S.
Published: August 2017

Regulation of metabolic pathways by signal transduction and transcriptional cascades can alter cellular levels of metabolites. Metabolites themselves can also have regulatory activity as shown in a new study published in the Biochemical Journal. Tsuchiya et al. describe a novel antibody and mass spectrometry-based method for identifying proteins that are reversibly modified with Coenzyme A (CoA). Analysis of the ‘CoAlated proteome’ under conditions of oxidative and metabolic stress revealed a bias towards the modification of metabolic enzymes by CoA. Furthermore, CoAlation was shown to alter the activity of target proteins. These results suggest that CoAlation is a widespread post-translational modification that may have important roles in the metabolic response to stress.
Reduction of squint in the slant polarised phased array antennas
Authors: Shahpari M.
Published: August 2017

The nature of the squint problem in the electrically tilted phased arrays (e.g. base transceiver station antennas) is explored based on the antenna theory and array theory. The antenna elements in the horizontal, vertical, or slant polarisations are considered. It is shown that the phased arrays with vertical and horizontal polarisations do not suffer from beam squint. However, it is illustrated that the issue of the squint becomes evident when one scans the beam along the vertical plane with slant antenna elements. A solution to reduce the squint problem is proposed which reduces the squint angle by a factor of two, and also improves the symmetry of the pattern.
Prox-regularity approach to generalized equations and image projection
Authors: Adly Samir , Nacry Florent , Thibault Lionel
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we first investigate the prox-regularity behaviour of solution mappings to generalized equations. This study is realized through a nonconvex uniform Robinson−Ursescu type theorem. Then, we derive new significant results for the preservation of prox-regularity under various and usual set operations. The role and applications of prox-regularity of solution sets of generalized equations are illustrated with dynamical systems with constraints.
Computational Fluid Dynamics of a Fatal Ruptured Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Švihlová Helena , Sejkorová Alena , Radovnický Tomáš , Adámek Daniel , Hron Jaroslav , Dragomir-Daescu Dan , Málek Josef , Sameš Martin , Hejčl Aleš
Published: August 2017

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been studied as a tool for the stratification of aneurysm rupture risk. We performed CFD analysis in a patient operated on for a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm. The point of rupture was identified during surgery. The aneurysm and blood vessels were segmented from computed tomography angiography to prepare a model for simulations. We found that the streamlines showed a concentrated inflow jet directed straight at the rupture point, and high wall shear stress was found at the point of rupture in the aneurysm sac. Thus specific local hemodynamics may be indicative of the aneurysm rupture site.
Pediatric Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion Fracture of the Tibial Insertion: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hurni Yannick , De Rosa Vincenzo , Gonzalez Jorge , Mendoza-Sagaon Mario , Hamitaga Flurim , Pellanda Giorgia
Published: August 2017

Background Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fracture of the tibial insertion is a very rare injury in children. In addition to performing an attentive clinical examination, radiologic studies are fundamental for its correct diagnosis and treatment. Its management may be either conservative or operative. So far, only a few cases treated conservatively have been reported in the pediatric population, with controversial results.

Methods We prospectively collected and reviewed clinical and radiographic data of an 11-year-old boy with avulsion fracture of the tibial insertion of the PCL. In addition, we performed a systematic review of the literature available to date.

Results We decided to treat the avulsion fracture in a conservative way. The patient has been followed with accurate clinical and radiological follow-up controls until complete recovery.

Conclusion Posterior cruciate avulsion fracture is a very rare finding in children, and no definitive indications for its appropriate management exist. With this report, we demonstrate that these fractures can be treated conservatively in selected cases with good results, avoiding potential surgical-related complications.

Study Design This is a case report (level of evidence V).
Treatment of Early Hip Osteoarthritis: Ultrasound-Guided Platelet Rich Plasma versus Hyaluronic Acid Injections in a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Doria Carlo , Mosele Giulia , Caggiari Gianfilippo , Puddu Leonardo , Ciurlia Emanuele
Published: August 2017

Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of ultrasound-guided intra-articular injections of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) versus hyaluronic acid (HA) for symptomatic early osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip.

Methods A prospective controlled double-blinded randomized trial on 80 patients with hip OA was conducted. The patients were divided in two groups of 40 patients each: group 1 underwent three PRP intra-articular ultrasound-guided injections, whereas group 2 underwent three HA injections. WOMAC, VAS, and Harris Hip Score were evaluated for both groups before and at 6 and 12 months after treatment.

Results The two groups were comparable in age, sex, body mass index, and severity of hip OA. Both groups showed a significant improvement from baseline at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups for all the outcome measures. No major complications were observed during the treatment and at follow-ups in both the groups.

Conclusion PRP did not offer significantly better results compared with HA in patients with moderate signs of OA, and thus it should not be considered as first-line treatment.

Level of Evidence Level II, randomized controlled trial.