bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc/Nickel‐Doped Hollow Core–Shell Co3O4 Derived from a Metal–Organic Framework with High Capacity, Stability, and Rate Performance in Lithium/Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Han Yuzhen , Li Jie , Zhang Tianyu , Qi Pengfei , Li Siwu , Gao Xing , Zhou Junwen , Feng Xiao , Wang Bo
Published: November 2017

Transition‐metal oxides are one of the most promising anode materials for energy storage in lithium‐ and sodium‐ion batteries (LIBs and NIBs, respectively). To improve the electrochemical performance of metal oxides (e.g., Co3O4), such as capacity and cyclability, a convenient strategy (with a metal–organic framework as a template) is introduced to generate Zn‐ or Ni‐doped Co3O4. The obtained hollow core–shell nanosized Co3O4 (denoted as Zn/Ni‐Co‐Oxide) derived from pyrolyzing zinc or nickel co‐doped ZIF‐67 (Co(mIm)2; mIm=methylimidazole) shows a drastically enhanced capacity of 1300 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5000 mA g−1, compared with that of pristine cobalt oxide (800 mAh g−1) in LIBs. A zinc‐doped Zn‐Co‐Oxide demonstrates a stable capacity of 1600 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 for 700 cycles and an excellent performance in full coin cells (cycled with LiNi0.5Co0.3Mn0.2O2). Moreover, NIB tests show a stable capacity of 300 mAh g−1 for more than 250 cycles.
The Rickiols: 20‐, 22‐, and 24‐membered Macrolides from the Ascomycete Hypoxylon rickii
Authors: Surup Frank , Kuhnert Eric , Böhm Andreas , Pendzialek Tim , Solga Danny , Wiebach Vincent , Engler Hauke , Berkessel Albrecht , Stadler Marc , Kalesse Markus
Published: November 2017

In preceding studies the neotropical ascomycete Hypoxylon rickii turned out to be a prolific source of new secondary metabolites, considering that we had obtained terpenoids with five different scaffolds along with a series of terphenyls. From the mycelial extracts of a 70 L scale fermentation of this strain we additionally isolated nine new macrolides (1–9) by RP‐HPLC. The planar structures were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy complemented by HR‐ESIMS. The relative configurations were assigned by J‐based configuration analyses and confirmed by Kishi′s Universal Database. Subsequently, the absolute configurations were assigned by Mosher′s method using the shift analysis of a tetra‐MTPA derivative. For rickiol A (1) and E (5) we observed transesterification of 20‐membered ring structures to 22‐membered isomers rickiol A2 (6) and E2 (7), and to 24‐membered isomers rickiol A3 (8) and rickiol E3 (9), respectively. Cytotoxic effects and moderate antibiotic activity against Gram‐positive bacteria were observed for 1–8 and 1–6 and 8, respectively. The total synthesis of rickiol E3 (9) established easier access to these compounds.
Effects of Ni modification on NO‐CO reaction with MnOx‐CuO/TiO2 catalysts
Authors: Zhang Xiaopeng , Wang Jinxin , Li Zhuofeng , Cui Yuezong , Tan Bojian , He Gaohong
Published: November 2017

Ni modified MnOx‐CuO/TiO2 catalysts were synthesized by the sol‐gel method and investigated for NO‐CO reaction. The results showed that 0.05Ni‐Mn‐Cu/TiO2 (the Ni/Ti molar ratio was 0.05) had the highest NO conversion efficiency with a maximum value of 85.4 % at 350 °C, which was 10 % higher than that of Mn‐Cu/TiO2. XPS analysis showed that more chemisorbed oxygen formed on the Ni‐modified catalyst surface, which could act as active sites for CO adsorption and oxidation. CO‐TPD results confirmed that the amount of adsorbed CO on the catalyst surface increased after Ni modification. H2‐TPR results suggested that the Ni‐modified catalyst had better redox properties, which favoured the reduction of NO to N2O and N2O to N2. Furthermore, in situ FTIR showed that CO2 from the production of the NO‐CO reaction could be easily formed on the surface of 0.05Ni‐Mn‐Cu/TiO2, and it indicated that the NO‐CO reaction could easily occur after Ni doping. All these factors were responsible for the better catalytic activity of Ni‐modified catalysts.
Association between diet quality and measures of body adiposity using the Rate Your Plate survey in patients presenting for coronary angiography
Authors: Ganguzza Lisa , Ngai Calvin , Flink Laura , Woolf Kathleen , Guo Yu , Gianos Eugenia , Burdowski Joseph , Slater James , Acosta Victor , Shephard Tamsin , Shah Binita
Published: November 2017

Background

Diet is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease; however, dietary patterns are historically difficult to capture in the clinical setting. Healthcare providers need assessment tools that can quickly summarize dietary patterns. Research should evaluate the effectiveness of these tools, such as Rate Your Plate (RYP), in the clinical setting.

Hypothesis

RYP diet quality scores are associated with measures of body adiposity in patients referred for coronary angiography.

Methods

Patients without a history of coronary revascularization (n = 400) were prospectively approached at a tertiary medical center in New York City prior to coronary angiography. Height, weight, and waist circumference (WC) were measured; body mass index (BMI) and waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR) were calculated. Participants completed a 24‐question RYP diet survey. An overall score was computed, and participants were divided into high (≥58) and low (≤57) diet quality groups.

Results

Participants in the high diet quality group (n = 98) had significantly lower measures of body adiposity than did those in the low diet quality group (n = 302): BMI (P < 0.001), WC (P = 0.001), WHtR (P = 0.001). There were small but significant inverse correlations between diet score and BMI, WC, and WHtR (P < 0.001). These associations remained significant after adjustment for demographics, tobacco use, and socioeconomic factors.

Conclusions

Higher diet quality scores are associated with lower measures of body adiposity. RYP is a potential instrument to capture diet quality in a high‐volume clinical setting. Further research should evaluate the utility of RYP in cardiovascular risk‐factor control.
Triptycene–Bis(aroyleneimidazole)s as Non‐Fullerene Acceptors: The Missing Links
Authors: Menke Elisabeth H. , Leibold David , Berger Felix J. , Rominger Frank , Vaynzof Yana , Mastalerz Michael
Published: November 2017

The syntheses of four triptycene‐bis(aroyleneimidazole)s—the missing links with respect to the previously reported triptycene–mono(aroyleneimidazole)s and triptycene–tris(aroyleneimidazole)s—are presented. Their optoelectronic properties and use as non‐fullerene acceptors in organic photovoltaics with poly({4,8‐bis[(2‐ethylhexyl)oxy]benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl}[3‐fluoro‐2‐(2‐ethylhexyl)carbonyl]thieno[3,4‐b]thiophenediyl) (PTB7) as a donor are described; these systems reach a maximum power conversion efficiency of 2 %. Furthermore, the effect of molecular symmetry on the photovoltaic device performance is discussed.
Application of a Water‐Soluble Matrix‐Stabilized Palladium Nanoparticle Catalyst for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation with High Activity and Stability
Authors: Prock Johannes , Salzl Simon , Ehrmann Katharina , Viertl Wolfgang , Pehn Richard , Pann Johann , Roithmeyer Helena , Bendig Marvin , Kopacka Holger , Capozzoli Laura , Oberhauser Werner , Knör Günther , Brüggeller Peter
Published: November 2017

Pd@(BiPy‐PEG‐OMe) is a catalyst comprised of palladium nanoparticles (Pd‐NPs) stabilized and made water soluble by 2,2′‐bipyridine‐end‐functionalized polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether (BiPy‐PEG‐OMe). The catalyst has been used in the past for nitrile hydrogenation. In this work, we prove that it is also very active for photocatalytic hydrogen generation, which might be true for more catalysts of its kind and therefore worthy of further investigation. Using the inexpensive photosensitizer Eosin Y, high turnover numbers (TONs) of over 4 500 were achieved for the evolution of molecular hydrogen from pure water under visible‐light irradiation. Replacing Eosin Y, which showed only a short lifetime under experimental conditions (i.e. a few hours), by a novel osmium‐based metal complex, which is also characterized by its crystal structure, the longevity of the system can be boosted to over one and a half months with a maximum TON of 1 500. Combining excellent yield and stability is a clear goal for further research.
Floating double probe in non‐Maxwellian plasmas: Determination of the electron density and mean electron energy
Authors: Jauberteau J.L. , Jauberteau I.
Published: November 2017

A theoretical study of the floating double probe based on the Druyvesteyn theory is developed in the case of non‐Maxwellian electron energy distribution functions (EEDFs). It is used to calculate the EEDF in the electron energy range larger than –e(Vf − Vp) from the I–V double probe characteristics. Vf and Vp are the floating and plasma potential, respectively. The analytical distribution function corresponding to the best fit of EEDF in the energy range larger than e(Vf − Vp) allows the determination of the total electron density (ne) and the mean electron energy (<ϵe>). The method is detailed and tested in the case of a theoretical Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution function. It is applied for experiments that are performed in expanding microwave plasmas sustained in argon. Analytical EEDFs determined by this method are compared with those measured by means of single probes under the same experimental conditions. A good agreement is observed between single and double probe measurements. Results obtained under different experimental conditions are used to define the best conditions to obtain reliable results by means of the double probe technique.
Internet delay forecasting for correlated and uncorrelated scenarios
Authors: Rizo‐Dominguez Luis , Muñoz‐Rodriguez David , Vargas‐Rosales Cesar , Ramirez‐Pacheco Julio , Villalpando‐Hernandez Rafaela , Mendieta‐Jimenez Francisco
Published: November 2017

Most Internet end‐to‐end communications rely on the transmission control protocol, and transmission control protocol performance depends upon the efficient detection of packet losses and delay estimations. Thus, several retransmission timeout prediction algorithms, which play an important role in the quality of service assurance, have been suggested in the literature. In this paper, we propose a novel forecasting algorithm, which, in contrast to those reported previously, is suitable for both the correlated and the uncorrelated delay scenarios. The proposed algorithm is compared with other methodologies by using standardized delay traces reported in the literature, and it is shown that the proposed algorithm obtains an improved performance with smaller errors than those of current predictors.
Bird species richness is associated with phylogenetic relatedness, plant species richness, and altitudinal range in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Liang Chenxia , Feng Gang , Si Xingfeng , Mao Lingfeng , Yang Guisheng , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Yang Jie
Published: November 2017

Bird species richness is mediated by local, regional, and historical factors, for example, competition, environmental heterogeneity, contemporary, and historical climate. Here, we related bird species richness with phylogenetic relatedness of bird assemblages, plant species richness, topography, contemporary climate, and glacial‐interglacial climate change to investigate the relative importance of these factors. This study was conducted in Inner Mongolia, an arid and semiarid region with diverse vegetation types and strong species richness gradients. The following associated variables were included as follows: phylogenetic relatedness of bird assemblages (Net Relatedness Index, NRI), plant species richness, altitudinal range, contemporary climate (mean annual temperature and precipitation, MAT and MAP), and contemporary‐Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) change in climate (change in MAT and change in MAP). Ordinary least squares linear, simultaneous autoregressive linear, and Random Forest models were used to assess the associations between these variables and bird species richness across this region. We found that bird species richness was correlated negatively with NRI and positively with plant species richness and altitudinal range, with no significant correlations with contemporary climate and glacial–interglacial climate change. The six best combinations of variables ranked by Random Forest models consistently included NRI, plant species richness, and contemporary‐LGM change in MAT. Our results suggest important roles of local ecological factors in shaping the distribution of bird species richness across this semiarid region. Our findings highlight the potential importance of these local ecological factors, for example, environmental heterogeneity, habitat filtering, and biotic interactions, in biodiversity maintenance.
Short‐ and long‐term effects of a single application of two organic amendments
Authors: Memoli V. , De Marco A. , Baldantoni D. , De Nicola F. , Maisto G.
Published: November 2017

A frequent side‐effect of soil treatment with organic amendments is the slow release of harmful metals deriving from the initial matrices, mainly municipal waste and manure from intensive farming. Contamination is amplified by repeated treatments, which is a common practice to maintain soil fertility. The aim of the present research was to compare, in a mesocosm trial, short (one year)‐ and long‐term (ten years) effects of a single application of compost or a mixture of compost and poultry manure to limestone waste. Attention was focused onpH, organic matter content, metal availability, and microbial biomass and activity. Amendment ecotoxicity at ten years after application was also evaluated. A single application reduced the metal availability and metabolic quotient (an index of stress condition). In the long term, an overall improvement of the environmental conditions has been observed, as the microbial biomass increased, respiration decreased (suggesting low energy requirement) and mineralization activity decreased (likely due to high recalcitrance of residual organic matter). In the brief term, poultry manure played a significant role in improving the environmental conditions as it contributed to reduce the metal availability and to enhance the microbial biomass and activity. In the long term, the overall conditions of both the organic amendments appeared favorable for organisms as low ecotoxicity occurred.
Peripheral muscle training with resistance exercise bands in patients with chronic heart failure. Long‐term effects on walking distance and quality of life; a pilot study
Authors: Lans Charlotta , Cider Åsa , Nylander Eva , Brudin Lars
Published: November 2017

Aims

This study aimed to describe a method of peripheral muscle training with resistance bands in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and to evaluate its effects on the 6 min walk test and quality of life up to 12 months using a home‐based programme.

Methods and results

Twenty‐two patients with stable CHF (19 men and 3 women), mean age 63.2 years (SD 8.1), New York Heart Association class II–III were randomized to individual home‐based training (HT group), or home‐based training with a group‐based start‐up in a hospital setting (GT group). A 6 min walk test, the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), and Short Form with 36 items (SF‐36) were administered at baseline and after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Exercise training resulted in statistically significant increased walking distance in both groups. The HT group increased on average 107 (80) m from baseline to 12 months, and the GT group by 100 (96) m. Health‐related quality of life, measured with MLHFQ and SF‐36, reached statistically significant improvements in both groups but at different time points. There were no statistically significant differences between groups on any parameters or follow‐ups.

Conclusions

Long‐term home‐based peripheral muscle training in patients with CHF, with or without an introductory period in a hospital setting, can be used for initial improvement and retention of walking distance and health‐related quality of life.
Fluid mixing in droplet‐based microfluidics with T junction and convergent–divergent sinusoidal microchannels
Authors: Yang Li , Li Shanshan , Liu Jixiao , Cheng Jingmeng
Published: November 2017

To explore and utilize the advantages of droplet‐based microfluidics, hydrodynamics, and mixing process within droplets traveling though the T junction channel and convergent–divergent sinusoidal microchannels are studied by numerical simulations and experiments, respectively. In the T junction channel, the mixing efficiency is significantly influenced by the twirling effect, which controls the initial distributions of the mixture during the droplet formation stage. Therefore, the internal recirculating flow can create a convection mechanism, thus improving mixing. The twirling effect is noticeably influenced by the velocity of the continuous phase; in the sinusoidal channel, the Dean vortices and droplet deformation are induced by centrifugal force and alternative velocity gradient, thus enhancing the mixing efficiency. The best mixing occurred when the droplet size is comparable with the channel width. Finally, we propose a unique optimized structure, which includes a T junction inlet joined to a sinusoidal channel. In this structure, the mixing of fluids in the droplets follows two routes: One is the twirling effect and symmetric recirculation flow in the straight channel. The other is the asymmetric recirculation and droplet deformation in the winding and variable cross‐section. Among the three structures, the optimized structure has the best mixing efficiency at the shortest mixing time (0.25 ms). The combination of the twirling effect, variable cross‐section effect, and Dean vortices greatly intensifies the chaotic flow. This study provides the insight of the mixing process and may benefit the design and operations of droplet‐based microfluidics.
Solid‐State Poly(ionic liquid) Gels for Simultaneous CO2 Adsorption and Electrochemical Reduction
Authors: Benedetti Tania , Naficy Sina , Walker Ashley , Officer David L. , Wallace Gordon G. , Dehghani Fariba
Published: November 2017

Managing carbon dioxide (CO2) released from large‐scale industrial processes is of great importance, yet there remain significant technical challenges. Herein, the fabrication of 1‐mm‐thick solid‐state electrochemical devices based on poly(ionic liquid) ionogels with embedded electrodes capable of both adsorption and electrochemical reduction of CO2 is reported. The ionogels are prepared via radical polymerization and chemical crosslinking of a vinyl imidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonimide ionic liquid monomer in the presence of additional ionic liquids (ILs) that act as swelling agents and enhance ionic conductivity. The effects of the ILs concentration and the degree of crosslinking on the mechanical properties, conductivity, and CO2 adsorption of the ionogels are investigated. The ionogels are shown to have ionic conductivities as high as 0.6 mS cm−1. The results of quartz crystal microbalance analyses demonstrates that the CO2 adsorption of the ionogels reaches up to ≈22 mg g−1, which is 10‐fold higher than that of their native ionic liquid. Moreover, the ionogels are easily recoverable after CO2 adsorption. The flexibility, conductivity, and CO2 capture capacity of this system can be controlled by the crosslinking ratio and ionic liquid content of the ionogels. This electrochemical device has the potential to be used in large scale plants for capturing CO2 for further electrochemical reactions.
Investigation of Direct‐Fed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Fueled by Upgraded Bio‐Oil Extracted from Olive Waste Pyrolysis: Part 1: Bio‐Oil Characterization and Preliminary Cell Testing
Authors: Elleuch Amal , Halouani Kamel , Li Yongdan
Published: November 2017

This study is one component of a two‐part paper aiming to investigate the feasibility of directly feeding renewable liquid biofuels in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs). In part 1, we examined changes that occur in the physicochemical properties upon upgrading process via catalytic esterification of fast pyrolysis crude bio‐oil and we preliminary analyzed and compared the influence on the power outputs of SOFCs. Upgraded bio‐oil was characterized revealing that all acid groups present in the crude bio‐oil were totally converted to esters. The H/C ratio increased while the O/C ratio decreased upon upgrading. Upgraded bio‐oil composition is comprised mostly of aliphatic groups (60 %) followed by saturated methyl esters (30 %). Upgraded bio‐oil viscosity (2.78 cP), neutrality (pH≈7) and energy density (40.94 MJ kg−1) were considerably enhanced. SOFC electrochemical performance results are promising showing that current density increases by 1.7 and ≈2 times while peak power density increases by 1.6 and 3 times upon upgrading at 700 °C and 750 °C, respectively.
Effects of sediment resuspension on the oxidation of acid-volatile sulfides and release of metals (iron, manganese, zinc) in Pescadero estuary (CA, USA)
Authors: Richards Chandra M. , van Puffelen Jasper L. , Pallud Céline
Published: November 2017

Bar-built estuaries are unique ecosystems characterized by the presence of a sandbar barrier, which separates the estuary from the ocean for extended periods and can naturally reopen to the ocean with heavy rainfall and freshwater inflows. The physical effects associated with the transition from closed to open state, specifically water mixing and sediment resuspension, often indirectly worsen water quality conditions and are suspected to drive near-annual fish kills at the Pescadero estuary in northern California. The effects of sediment acid-volatile sulfide (AVS) oxidation, specifically oxygen depletion, acidification, and metal release, are believed to aggravate water conditions for fish but remain poorly understood. We performed slurry incubations containing sediment from 4 sites in the Pescadero estuary, representing a gradient from the Pacific Ocean to freshwater tributaries. We measured near-maximum rates of aqueous hydrogen sulfide oxidation, sediment AVS oxidation, sulfate production, and acidification, as well as near-maximum release rates of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) to the water column. We estimated AVS oxidation rates of 8 to 21 mmol S kg−1  d−1, which were 3 orders of magnitude higher than aqueous hydrogen sulfide oxidation rates, 6 to 26 μmol S kg−1  d−1. We suggest that aqueous hydrogen sulfide cannot be responsible for the observed kills because of low concentrations and minimal oxidative effects on pH and metal concentrations. However, the oxidative effects of AVS are potentially severe, decreasing pH to strongly acidic levels and releasing aqueous Fe, Mn, and Zn concentrations up to 11.2 mM, 0.46 mM, and 88 μM, respectively, indicating a potential role in worsening water conditions for fish in the Pescadero estuary. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:993–1006. © 2017 SETAC
Effect of privatized managed care on public insurance spending and generosity: Evidence from Medicaid
Authors: Perez Victoria
Published: November 2017

States choose to provide Medicaid coverage via managed care or traditional fee‐for‐service. Managed care provided by private insurers poses higher contracting costs and information asymmetry than traditional fee‐for‐service but potentially improves efficiency and reduces spending. Evaluating the effect of managed care on Medicaid spending is challenging because adoption of managed care is nonrandom and may be driven by local economic shocks that simultaneously affect Medicaid spending. This study implements a dynamic panel framework to estimate the effect of managed care enrollment on spending levels and program design. Results show reductions in Medicaid spending larger than previously found in cross‐state studies: A 10% increase of managed care enrollment reduces state Medicaid spending by 2.94%, or approximately $55 million. The study identifies which areas of spending are differentially affected by managed care enrollment and whether savings from managed care affect Medicaid design, specifically coverage generosity.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological properties of composites of hydroxyapatite and hexagonal boron nitride
Authors: Unal Semra , Ekren Nazmi , Sengil Ahmet Z. , Oktar Faik N. , Irmak Ster , Oral Ozlem , Sahin Yesim M. , Kilic Osman , Agathopoulos Simeon , Gunduz Oguzhan
Published: November 2017

Hydroxyapatite (HA), obtained from bovine bones, was successfully reinforced with hexagonal boron nitrite (h‐BN). h‐BN/HA composites, with BN content up to 1.5 wt %, were sintered at various temperatures between 1000 and 1300°C, in air. Well‐sintered samples were obtained after sintering at 1200 and 1300°C. The presence of h‐BN contributed to dense, fine, and well‐crystallized microstructure. The results of X‐ray diffraction analysis and FT‐IR spectroscopy showed that the produced composites comprised biphasic β‐TCP/HCA (HCA: carbonate partially substituted HA). High values of mechanical properties were achieved, namely compression strength 155 MPa for the sample 0.5% h‐BN/HA and Vickers microhardness of 716 HV for the samples 1.5% h‐BN/HA, both sintered at 1300°C. U2OS human bone osteosarcoma proliferation and cell viability showed no adverse effect in the presence of h‐BN/HA, suggesting the potential use of the produced materials as safe biomaterials in bone tissue engineering. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2384–2392, 2018.
Diagnostic value of trait antinuclear antibodies and multiple immunoglobulin production in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Wan Liping , Zhu Hong , Gu Yanan , Liu Hui
Published: November 2017

Background

Our article aims to evaluate the proportion of monospecific antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and polyclonal ANAs in patients with autoimmune diseases based on the results of an ANA panel and to evaluate the efficiency of trait ANAs as a novel diagnostic tool. This study also aims to investigate immunoglobulin production in autoimmune diseases by detecting different antibodies.

Methods

The serum ANA profile of 634 patients with autoimmune diseases was analyzed using the immunoblot method. A specific formula was developed in an effort to calculate the theoretical proportion of monospecific ANA (TPM) in different disease groups. Different IgM, IgG, and IgE variants for several pathologies were detected.

Results

The observed proportions of monospecific ANAs (OPM) were all lower than the predicted TPM in autoimmune diseases. Polyclonal ANAs were predominant in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). There were statistical differences in OPM and TPM in all disease groups (P < .001). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) analysis of trait ANAs between the SLE group and the control groups indicated an area under the curve of 0.916. Differences were found in IgM of Toxoplasma gondii (TOXO) and IgG of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Treponema pallidum (TP) when comparing the various disease groups to the control group.

Conclusion

The higher TPM suggests that polyclonal differentiation is the major mechanism of ANA in autoimmune diseases. Trait ANA is potentially a valuable new index for diagnosis in SLE. Further investigation is needed to understand the link between B‐cell differentiation and autoimmune diseases.
Extracellular adenosine‐induced Rac1 activation in pulmonary endothelium: Molecular mechanisms and barrier‐protective role
Authors: Kovacs‐Kasa Anita , Kim Kyung Mi , Cherian‐Shaw Mary , Black Stephen M. , Fulton David J. , Verin Alexander D.
Published: November 2017

We have previously shown that Gs‐coupled adenosine receptors (A2a) are primarily involved in adenosine‐induced human pulmonary artery endothelial cell (HPAEC) barrier enhancement. However, the downstream events that mediate the strengthening of the endothelial cell (EC) barrier via adenosine signaling are largely unknown. In the current study, we tested the overall hypothesis that adenosine‐induced Rac1 activation and EC barrier enhancement is mediated by Gs‐dependent stimulation of cAMP‐dependent Epac1‐mediated signaling cascades. Adenoviral transduction of HPAEC with constitutively‐active (C/A) Rac1 (V12Rac1) significantly increases transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) reflecting an enhancement of the EC barrier. Conversely, expression of an inactive Rac1 mutant (N17Rac1) decreases TER reflecting a compromised EC barrier. The adenosine‐induced increase in TER was accompanied by activation of Rac1, decrease in contractility (MLC dephosphorylation), but not Rho inhibition. Conversely, inhibition of Rac1 activity attenuates adenosine‐induced increase in TER. We next examined the role of cAMP‐activated Epac1 and its putative downstream targets Rac1, Vav2, Rap1, and Tiam1. Depletion of Epac1 attenuated the adenosine‐induced Rac1 activation and the increase in TER. Furthermore, silencing of Rac1 specific guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs), Vav2 and Rap1a expression significantly attenuated adenosine‐induced increases in TER and activation of Rac1. Depletion of Rap1b only modestly impacted adenosine‐induced increases in TER and Tiam1 depletion had no effect on adenosine‐induced Rac1 activation and TER. Together these data strongly suggest that Rac1 activity is required for adenosine‐induced EC barrier enhancement and that the activation of Rac1 and ability to strengthen the EC barrier depends, at least in part, on cAMP‐dependent Epac1/Vav2/Rap1‐mediated signaling.
Acute viral infections of the central nervous system, 2014‐2016, Greece
Authors: Papa Anna , Papadopoulou Elpida
Published: November 2017

In order to investigate the viral etiology of acute infections of central nervous system (CNS), multiplex and single PCRs combined with serology for arboviruses were applied on samples from 132 hospitalized patients in Greece during May 2014‐December 2016. A viral pathogen was detected in 52 of 132 (39.4%) cases with acute CNS infection. Enteroviruses predominated (15/52, 28.8%), followed by West Nile virus (9/52, 17.3%). Phleboviruses, varicella‐zoster virus, and Epstein‐Barr virus accounted for 15.4%, 13.5%, and 11.5% of the cases, respectively. The study gives an insight into the etiology of viral CNS infections in a Mediterranean country, where arboviruses should be included in the differential diagnosis of acute CNS infections.
Distribution of peripheral dendritic cells in patients with HBV infection or spleen and kidney deficiency
Authors: Chen Weixia , Wang Lei , Niu Yaofei , Ji Guang , Xing Lianjun
Published: November 2017

Spleen and kidney deficiency syndrome (SKD), a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome, is the fundamental mechanisms of TCM. We aim to investigate the distribution of peripheral dendritic cells (DCs) in HBV patients with SKD or non‐SKD. Peripheral venous blood from patients with HBV infection and healthy volunteers was collected to extract PBMC, and flow cytometry assay was used to measure the distribution of DCs subsets, including myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). For the number of pDCs, it was higher in control group and non‐SKD group, compared with HBV infection group and SKD group, respectively. For the number of mDCs, it was higher in control group and the non‐SKD group compared to SKD group, while in control group it was higher than both HBeAg positive group and negative group. The number of pDCs in control group and chronic hepatitis B group were higher than HBVcarrier group, and it was higher in control group than both immune tolerance group and inactive group, while in immune clearance group it was higher than immune tolerance group and inactve group. The number of mDCs in control group and immune clearance group were higher than that of immune tolerance group. There was an obvious correlation between TCM syndromes and immune function in HBV infected patients, the number of pDCs and mDCs of the SKD group was lower than that in non‐SKD group. These results provide a new insight into scientific evidence that TCM probably be based.
Abnormalities in interactions of Rho GTPases with scaffolding proteins contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Reichova Alexandra , Zatkova Martina , Bacova Zuzana , Bakos Jan
Published: November 2017

Accumulating evidence suggests that Rho GTPases, together with scaffolding SHANK proteins, and associated signaling pathways play a role in the development of autism symptoms in various conditions. Research data have brought information on multiple intracellular signaling pathways, including Rho‐associated protein kinases and serine/threonine‐protein kinases involved in cytoskeleton rearranging. Alterations in downstream effectors of GTPase signaling pathways are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders. Bioinformatics and experimental data show that complex genetic and molecular defects (GTPases, actin‐binding proteins, kinases, neuropeptides) can result in neuronal remodeling, leading to the functional connectivity deficits that manifest as the heterogeneous autism spectrum phenotype. Finally, the known hormone and neuropeptide oxytocin appears to be a factor for consideration in therapeutic intervention.
Visualizing the interaction of Acanthamoeba castellanii with human retinal epithelial cells by spontaneous Raman and CARS imaging
Authors: Naemat Abida , Sinjab Faris , McDonald Alison , Downes Andy , Elfick Alistair , Elsheikha Hany M. , Notingher Ioan
Published: November 2017

Improved understanding of the mechanism of nutrient's uptake can enable targeted manipulation of nutrient sensing pathways in medically important pathogens to a greater degree than is currently possible. In this context, we present the use of spontaneous Raman microspectroscopy and coherent anti‐Stokes Raman spectroscopy to visualize the time‐dependent molecular interactions between the protozoan Acanthamoeba castellanii and host human cells. Human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE‐19) cells were pre‐labelled with deuterated Phe (L‐Phe[D8]) and the uptake of the host derived L‐Phe(D8) by A. castellanii trophozoites was measured by Raman microspectroscopy for up to 48 hr post infection (hpi). This approach revealed a time‐dependent uptake pattern of this essential amino acid by A. castellanii trophozoites during the first 24 hpi with complete enrichment with L‐Phe(D8) detected in trophozoites at 48 hpi. In contrast, cell free A. castellanii trophozoites showed a modest uptake of only 16–18% L‐Phe(D8) from L‐Phe(D8)–supplemented culture medium after 3, 24, and 48 hr hpi. Coherent anti‐Stokes Raman spectroscopy microscopy was successfully used to monitor the reprogramming of lipids within the trophozoites as they engaged with host cells. The methodology presented here provides new advances in the ability to analyze the kinetic of amino acid acquisition by A. castellanii from host cell and extracellular environment, and to visualize lipid reprogramming within the trophozoite.
Hyperspectral Raman imaging using Bragg tunable filters of graphene and other low‐dimensional materials
Authors: Gaufrès Etienne , Marcet Stéphane , Aymong Vincent , Tang Nathalie Y‐Wa , Favron Alexandre , Thouin Felix , Allard Charlotte , Rioux David , Cottenye Nicolas , Verhaegen Marc , Martel Richard
Published: November 2017

Hyperspectral Raman imaging is presented as a powerful method to acquire quantitative as well as qualitative information on low‐dimensional materials. The method is, however, not widely used due to limitations of the Raman scanning instruments. Here we present a hyperspectral Raman system based on Bragg tunable filtering that is capable of global imaging with significantly reduced acquisition time and improved sensitivity compared to scanning confocal Raman microscopes. The operation principles of the instrument are presented, and the performance is benchmarked using a calibrated carbon nanotube sample. Examples of various applications are shown to illustrate the abilities of the technique to characterize samples deposited on oxidized silicon substrates, including graphene stacks prepared by chemical‐vapor deposition, exfoliated MoS2, and carbon nanotubes filled with dye molecules. The wealth of information available through this hyperspectral Raman imaging technique opens many new ways to probe the properties of complex low‐dimensional materials. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal stability of ultrathin and high dielectric ta‐C films coated with Ag nanostructures for SERS
Authors: Yan Bo , Li Ke , Gu Ping , Li Zhen , Tang Chaojun , Liu Fanxin , Zhan Peng , Sui Chenghua , Wang Zhenlin
Published: November 2017

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) becomes one of the most desirable analytical techniques in the field of molecule detection. In some case, SERS needs to be performed at high temperature, for example, in catalytic reaction, in which dielectric film‐coated Ag nanostructures have been developed as extremely stable SERS substrates. Here, we study the thermal stability in air for a 1‐nm tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta‐C) film‐coated Ag nanostructure and its application in SERS. The result indicates that the 1‐nm ta‐C can preserve its mechanical properties and has good thermal stability at the temperature below 300 °C. However, under heating above 300 °C, its sp3 (diamond structure) content has an apparent decrease so that the 1‐nm ta‐C film cannot protect Ag‐based SERS substrates. The further SERS experiments demonstrate that the 1‐nm ta‐C‐coated Ag substrate can maintain its enhancement capability after heating below 300 °C by comparing to the substrate without heating, with further heating above 300 °C eventually leading to a loss of SERS capability, which is consistent with the study of ta‐C's thermal stability. We expected that our method could extend the potential applications of SERS in investigation of high‐temperature chemical reactions.
Preparation and mechanism analysis of an environment‐friendly maize seed coating agent
Authors: Zeng Defang , Fan Zhao , Tian Xu , Wang Wenjin , Zhou Mingchun , Li Haochuan
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Traditional seed coating agents often contain toxic ingredients, which contaminate the environment and threaten human health. This paper expounds a method of preparing a novel environment‐friendly seed coating agent for maize and researches its mechanism of action. The natural polysaccharide polymer, which is the main active ingredient of this environment‐friendly seed coating agent, has the characteristics of innocuity and harmlessness, and it can replace the toxic ingredients used in traditional seed coating agents.

RESULTS

This environment‐friendly seed coating agent for maize was mainly made up of the natural polysaccharide polymer and other additives. The field trials results showed that the control efficacy of Helminthosporium maydis came to 93.72%, the anti‐feeding rate of cutworms came to 81.29%, and the maize yield was increased by 17.75%. Besides, the LD50 value (half the lethal dose in rats) of this seed coating agent was 10 times higher than that of the traditional seed coating agents. This seed coating agent could improve the activity of plant protective enzymes (peroxidase, catalase and superoxidase dismutase) and increase the chlorophyll content.

CONCLUSION

This seed coating agent has four characteristics of disease prevention, desinsectization, increasing yield and safety. Results of mechanism analyses showed that this seed coating agent could enhance disease control effectiveness by improving plant protective enzymes activity and increase maize yield by improving chlorophyll content. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Relative Rate Studies of the Reactions of Atomic Chlorine with Acetone and Cyclic Ketones
Authors: Herath Thushani N. , Orozco Ivan , Clinch Eric C. , Marshall Paul
Published: November 2017

Rate coefficients have been measured for Cl atom reactions under ambient conditions with acetone and four cyclic ketones. Cl was generated by UV photolysis of Cl2, and other species were monitored by FT‐IR spectroscopy. The measurements yield k(Cl + acetone) = (2.0 ± 0.7) × 10−12, k(Cl + cyclobutanone) = (10.1 ± 0.8) × 10−11, k(Cl + cycloheptanone) = (24.0 ± 2.3) × 10−11, k(Cl + 2‐methyl cyclopentanone) = (15.2 ± 1.2) × 10−11, and k(Cl + 2‐methyl cyclohexanone) = (11.2 ± 1.0) × 10−11 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, where the uncertainties represent 95% confidence limits. These results are discussed in the context of structure‐activity relationships. We also present a prediction for Cl + cyclopropanone based on ab initio properties of the transition state.
Spatio‐Temporal Characterization of Pump‐Induced Wavefront Aberrations in Yb3 + ‐Doped Materials
Authors: Tamer Issa , Keppler Sebastian , Hornung Marco , Körner Jörg , Hein Joachim , Kaluza Malte C.
Published: November 2017

A comprehensive spatio‐temporal characterization is presented describing the pump‐induced wavefront aberrations in Yb3 + ‐doped YAG, CaF2, and fluorophosphate glass. Time‐resolved interferometric measurements were performed to reveal the profiles of the total optical path differences (OPDs), which are described by the spatio‐temporal superposition of thermal as well as electronic contributions, across the free aperture of the considered diode‐pumped active materials. These contributions were individually determined by a COMSOL‐based thermal profile model along with a detailed characterization of the electronic changes by measuring the single‐pass gain and the spatial fluorescence profile. Due to the low quantum defect, the amplitude of the electronic component becomes comparable for all three materials and, in the case of Yb:CaF2, almost completely compensates the thermal component resulting from a pump pulse during the time frame of laser pulse amplification. Finally, all relevant material constants – such as the photoelastic constant and the polarizability difference – could be determined during this investigation, allowing the accurate modeling of the total pump‐induced wavefront aberrations and subsequent optimization for laser systems worldwide employing these Yb3 + ‐doped materials.
Global scales for cognitive screening in Parkinson's disease: Critique and recommendations
Authors: Skorvanek Matej , Goldman Jennifer G. , Jahanshahi Marjan , Marras Connie , Rektorova Irena , Schmand Ben , van Duijn Erik , Goetz Christopher G. , Weintraub Daniel , Stebbins Glenn T. , Martinez‐Martin Pablo ,   the members of the MDS Rating Scales Review Committee
Published: November 2017

Background

Cognitive impairment is a common nonmotor manifestation of Parkinson's disease, with deficits ranging from mild cognitive difficulties in 1 or more of the cognitive domains to severe dementia. The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society commissioned the assessment of the clinimetric properties of cognitive rating scales measuring global cognitive performance in PD to make recommendations regarding their use.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify the scales used to assess global cognitive performance in PD, and the identified scales were reviewed and rated as “recommended,” “recommended with caveats,” “suggested,” or “listed” by the panel using previously established criteria.

Results

A total of 12 cognitive scales were included in this review. Three scales, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale Second Edition, and the Parkinson's Disease‐Cognitive Rating Scale, were classified as “recommended.” Two scales were classified as “recommended with caveats”: the Mini‐Mental Parkinson, because of limited coverage of executive abilities, and the Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease‐Cognition, which has limited data on sensitivity to change. Six other scales were classified as “suggested” and 1 scale as “listed.”

Conclusions

Because of the existence of “recommended” scales for assessment of global cognitive performance in PD, this task force suggests that the development of a new scale for this purpose is not needed at this time. However, global cognitive scales are not a substitute for comprehensive neuropsychological testing. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Distinct patterns of amyloid‐dependent tau accumulation in Lewy body diseases
Authors: Lee Seung Ha , Cho Hanna , Choi Jae Yong , Lee Jae Hoon , Ryu Young Hoon , Lee Myung Sik , Lyoo Chul Hyoung
Published: November 2017

Background: In addition to Lewy body pathology, amyloid‐β plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that are characteristic for Alzheimer's disease are also frequently found in Lewy body diseases.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate tau accumulation patterns in dementia with Lewy bodies and other Lewy body diseases using in vivo 18F‐AV‐1451 PET.

Methods: The study included 12 Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with normal cognition, 22 PD patients with cognitive impairment, and 18 dementia with Lewy bodies patients. In addition, 25 Alzheimer's disease patients and 25 healthy controls were included for comparison. All participants underwent 18F‐AV‐1451 and 18F‐florbetaben PET scans, and cortical binding values were compared between the controls and each disease group.

Results: When compared with the controls, dementia with Lewy bodies patients showed slightly increased 18F‐AV‐1451 binding in the primary sensorimotor and visual cortices and the parieto‐temporal cortices, which failed to survive multiple comparisons. Amyloid‐positive dementia with Lewy bodies patients showed significantly increased binding in the same regions when compared with controls, and even greater binding in the primary sensorimotor and visual cortices than Alzheimer's disease. Meanwhile, binding in the lateral and medial temporal cortices was less prominent than in Alzheimer's disease. In dementia with Lewy bodies, 18F‐AV‐1451 binding in the occipital cortex correlated with 18F‐florbetaben binding. Amyloid‐negative patients with normal cognition, patients with cognitive impairment, and dementia with Lewy bodies patients did not show increased 18F‐AV‐1451 binding.

Conclusions: Dementia with Lewy bodies patients may harbor 18F‐AV‐1451 binding patterns distinct from Alzheimer's disease, with greater involvement of the primary cortices and less involvement of the temporal cortex. Tau burden increases in the Lewy body disease spectrum, and amyloid may play an important role in the accumulation of neocortical tau in Lewy body diseases. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Comparative study of the effects of nano‐sized and micro‐sized CF and PTFE on the thermal and tribological properties of PEEK composites
Authors: Wang Qiufeng , Wang Yunxia , Wang Hongling , Fan Na , Wang Mengjiao , Liu Hao , Yan Fengyuan
Published: November 2017

The tribological characteristics of PEEK composites fretting against GCr 15 steel were investigated by a SRV‐IV oscillating reciprocating ball‐on‐disk tribometer. In order to clarify the effect of type and size of fillers on the properties of PEEK composites, nano‐sized and micro‐sized CF and PTFE fillers were added to the PEEK matrix. The thermal conductivity, hardness, and fretting wear properties of PEEK composites reinforced by CF or PTFE were comparatively studied. The results showed that the type and size of the fillers have an important effect on both the friction coefficient and wear rate, by affecting their thermal conductivity, hardness, as well as the surface areas of their transfer films. In comparison, the effect on improving the tribological properties of micro‐sized CF was superior to that of nano‐sized CF, while the effect of nano‐sized PTFE was superior to that of micro‐sized PTFE. Considering the acceptable friction coefficient and wear rate of the composite under the fretting wear test, it seemed that 4% nCF, 20% mCF, 2% nPTFE and 10% mPTFE were desired additive proportions. And it also can be found that during the fretting wear test, the abrasive and adhesive wear resulted in accumulative debris at the contacting surface. The transfer films made of debris were formed on the counterfaces.