bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accumulation of high OPDA level correlates with reduced ROS and elevated GSH benefiting white cell survival in variegated leaves
Authors: Sun Ying-Hsuan , Hung Chiu-Yueh , Qiu Jie , Chen Jianjun , Kittur Farooqahmed S. , Oldham Carla E. , Henny Richard J. , Burkey Kent O. , Fan Longjiang , Xie Jiahua
Published: March 2017

Variegated ‘Marble Queen’ (Epipremnum aureum) plant has white (VMW) and green (VMG) sectors within the same leaf. The white sector cells containing undifferentiated chloroplasts are viable, but the underlying mechanism for their survival and whether these white cells would use any metabolites as signal molecules to communicate with the nucleus for maintaining their viability remain unclear. We analyzed and compared phytohormone levels with their precursors produced in chloroplasts between VMW and VMG, and further compared their transcriptomes to understand the consequences related to the observed elevated 12-oxo phytodienoic acid (OPDA), which was 9-fold higher in VMW than VMG. Transcriptomic study showed that a large group of OPDA-responsive genes (ORGs) were differentially expressed in VMW, including stress-related transcription factors and genes for reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers, DNA replication and repair, and protein chaperones. Induced expression of these ORGs could be verified in OPDA-treated green plants. Reduced level of ROS and higher levels of glutathione in VMW were further confirmed. Our results suggest that elevated OPDA or its related compounds are recruited by white cells as a signaling molecule(s) to up-regulate stress and scavenging activity related genes that leads to reduced ROS levels and provides survival advantages to the white cells.
Separation of Oligosaccharides from Lotus Seeds via Medium-pressure Liquid Chromatography Coupled with ELSD and DAD
Authors: Lu Xu , Zheng Zhichang , Miao Song , Li Huang , Guo Zebin , Zhang Yi , Zheng Yafeng , Zheng Baodong , Xiao Jianbo
Published: March 2017

Lotus seeds were identified by the Ministry of Public Health of China as both food and medicine. One general function of lotus seeds is to improve intestinal health. However, to date, studies evaluating the relationship between bioactive compounds in lotus seeds and the physiological activity of the intestine are limited. In the present study, by using medium pressure liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light-scattering detector and diode-array detector, five oligosaccharides were isolated and their structures were further characterized by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.In vitrotesting determined that LOS3-1 and LOS4 elicited relatively good proliferative effects onLactobacillus delbrueckiisubsp.bulgaricus.These results indicated a structure-function relationship between the physiological activity of oligosaccharides in lotus seeds and the number of probiotics applied, thus providing room for improvement of this particular feature. Intestinal probiotics may potentially become a new effective drug target for the regulation of immunity.
Image deformation as a cue to material category judgment
Authors: Kawabe Takahiro , Kogovšek Rok
Published: March 2017

Human observers easily recognize complex natural phenomena, such as flowing water, which often generate highly chaotic dynamic arrays of light on the retina. It has not been clarified how the visual system discerns the source of a fluid flow. Here we show that the magnitude of image deformation caused by light refraction is a critical factor for the visual system to determine the perceptual category of fluid flows. Employing a physics engine, we created computer-rendered scenes of water and hot air flows. For each flow, we manipulated the rendering parameters (distortion factors and the index of refraction) that strongly influence the magnitude of image deformation. The observers rated how strongly they felt impressions of water and hot air in the video clips of the flows. The ratings showed that the water and hot air impressions were positively and negatively related to the magnitude of image deformation. Based on the results, we discuss how the visual system heuristically utilizes image deformation to discern non-rigid materials such as water and hot air flows.
Antimicrobial peptide cWFW kills by combining lipid phase separation with autolysis
Authors: Scheinpflug Kathi , Wenzel Michaela , Krylova Oxana , Bandow Julia E. , Dathe Margitta , Strahl Henrik
Published: March 2017

The synthetic cyclic hexapeptide cWFW (cyclo(RRRWFW)) has a rapid bactericidal activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Its detailed mode of action has, however, remained elusive. In contrast to most antimicrobial peptides, cWFW neither permeabilizes the membrane nor translocates to the cytoplasm. Using a combination of proteome analysis, fluorescence microscopy, and membrane analysis we show that cWFW instead triggers a rapid reduction of membrane fluidity both in live Bacillus subtilis cells and in model membranes. This immediate activity is accompanied by formation of distinct membrane domains which differ in local membrane fluidity, and which severely disrupts membrane protein organisation by segregating peripheral and integral proteins into domains of different rigidity. These major membrane disturbances cause specific inhibition of cell wall synthesis, and trigger autolysis. This novel antibacterial mode of action holds a low risk to induce bacterial resistance, and provides valuable information for the design of new synthetic antimicrobial peptides.
Loss of forebrain MTCH2 decreases mitochondria motility and calcium handling and impairs hippocampal-dependent cognitive functions
Authors: Ruggiero Antonella , Aloni Etay , Korkotian Eduard , Zaltsman Yehudit , Oni-Biton Efrat , Kuperman Yael , Tsoory Michael , Shachnai Liat , Levin-Zaidman Smadar , Brenner Ori , Segal Menahem , Gross Atan
Published: March 2017

Mitochondrial Carrier Homolog 2 (MTCH2) is a novel regulator of mitochondria metabolism, which was recently associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Here we demonstrate that deletion of forebrain MTCH2 increases mitochondria and whole-body energy metabolism, increases locomotor activity, but impairs motor coordination and balance. Importantly, mice deficient in forebrain MTCH2 display a deficit in hippocampus-dependent cognitive functions, including spatial memory, long term potentiation (LTP) and rates of spontaneous excitatory synaptic currents. Moreover, MTCH2-deficient hippocampal neurons display a deficit in mitochondria motility and calcium handling. Thus, MTCH2 is a critical player in neuronal cell biology, controlling mitochondria metabolism, motility and calcium buffering to regulate hippocampal-dependent cognitive functions.
Rapid fabrication of functionalised poly(dimethylsiloxane) microwells for cell aggregate formation
Authors: Forget A. , Burzava A. L. S. , Delalat B. , Vasilev K. , Harding F. J. , Blencowe A. , Voelcker N. H.
Published: March 2017

Cell aggregates reproduce many features of the natural architecture of functional tissues, and have therefore become an important in vitro model of tissue function.
A novel botryoidal aramid fiber reinforcement of a PMMA resin for a restorative biomaterial
Authors: He Xinye , Qu Ying , Peng Jinrong , Peng Tao , Qian Zhiyong
Published: March 2017

A novel botryoidal PMMA microsphere-grafted aramid fiber system is developed to effectively strengthen PMMA restorative biomaterial.
Removal of SO2 on a nanoporous photoelectrode with simultaneous H2 production
Authors: Han Jin , Zheng Xiuzhen , Zhang Liwu , Fu Hongbo , Chen Jianmin
Published: March 2017

H2 production with simultaneous removal of SO2 on a nanoporous BiVO4 photoelectrode.
Convenient iodine-mediated aminoselenation of alkenes using benzotriazoles as nitrogen sources
Authors: Wang Xiaolong , Li Hongjie , Zhu Min , Yan Jie
Published: March 2017

Convenient iodine-mediated alkene aminoselenation using benzotriazoles as nitrogen sources.
Bio-inspired hierarchically structured polymer fibers for anisotropic non-wetting surfaces
Authors: Yunusa M. , Ozturk F. E. , Yildirim A. , Tuvshindorj U. , Kanik M. , Bayindir M.
Published: March 2017

A rice leaf-like hierarchically textured polymer fiber arrays for anisotropic non-wetting surfaces.
Gradient nanoporous gold: a novel surface-enhanced Raman scattering substrate
Authors: Huang Jinglin , Liu Yansong , He Xiaoshan , Tang Cuilan , Du Kai , He Zhibing
Published: March 2017

The design and fabrication of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates with high Raman enhancement, stability, homogeneity and processing compatibility is still one of the most challenging issues in SERS research.
Co-assembly of Fmoc-tripeptide and gold nanoparticles as a facile approach to immobilize nanocatalysts
Authors: Zhang Yifei , Liu Xiaojing , Wang Mengfan , Zhao Yanan , Qi Wei , Su Rongxin , He Zhimin
Published: March 2017

AuNPs are immobilized onto peptide-based nanofibers through co-assembly Fmoc-FFX and nanoparticles, which shows favorable catalytic activity toward 4-nitrophenol.
A new Ce-doped MgAl-LDH@Au nanocatalyst for highly efficient reductive degradation of organic contaminants
Authors: Iqbal Kanwal , Iqbal Anam , Kirillov Alexander M. , Wang Bingkai , Liu Weisheng , Tang Yu
Published: March 2017

A new type of convenient, environmentally friendly, and recyclable nanocatalyst (abbreviated as MgAlCe-LDH@Au) was designed and successfully assembled by loading Au nanoparticles (Au NPs; ∼3 nm average diameter) on a MgAlCe-LDH support through anin situreduction of HAuCl4by NaBH4.
Carbon nanotubes kirigami mechanical metamaterials
Authors: Zhao Yushun , Wang Chao , Wu Jianyang , Sui Chao , Zhao Shuyuan , Zhang Zhisen , He Xiaodong
Published: March 2017

Imparting elasticity and functionality to materials is one of the key objects of materials science research.
The unusual ring scission of a quinoxaline-pyran-fused dithiolene system related to molybdopterin
Authors: Fogeron Thibault , Retailleau Pascal , Chamoreau Lise-Marie , Fontecave Marc , Li Yun
Published: March 2017

The reduction of a bioinspired dithiolene system in acidic medium led to an unprecedented cleavage of the C–O bond in the pyran ring.
Ruthenium-catalyzed regioselective allylic amination of 2,3,3-trifluoroallylic carbonates
Authors: Isobe Shin-ichi , Terasaki Shou , Hanakawa Taisyun , Mizuno Shota , Kawatsura Motoi
Published: March 2017

Synthesis of trifluorinated terminal alkenes possessing allylic amines by ruthenium-catalyzed branch selective allylic amination.
Hybrid SiO2@POSS nanofiller: a promising reinforcing system for rubber nanocomposites
Authors: D'Arienzo Massimiliano , Redaelli Matteo , Callone Emanuela , Conzatti Lucia , Di Credico Barbara , Dirè Sandra , Giannini Luca , Polizzi Stefano , Schizzi Ilaria , Scotti Roberto , Tadiello Luciano , Morazzoni Franca
Published: March 2017

Hybrid SiO2@POSS provides enhanced networking and “sticky regions” among filler aggregates, granting outstanding reinforcement and hysteretic properties to SBR nanocomposites.
Ternary silver chlorobromide nanocrystals: intrinsic influence of size and morphology on photocatalytic activity
Authors: Abeyweera Sasitha C. , Sun Yugang
Published: March 2017

The size and shape of ternary silver chlorobromide nanocrystals influence their optical absorption and photocatalytic activity.
Review of the synthesis, transfer, characterization and growth mechanisms of single and multilayer graphene
Authors: Lee H. Cheun , Liu Wei-Wen , Chai Siang-Piao , Mohamed Abdul Rahman , Aziz Azizan , Khe Cheng-Seong , Hidayah N. M. S. , Hashim U.
Published: March 2017

Graphene has emerged as the most popular topic in the active research field since graphene's discovery in 2004 by Andrei Geim and Kostya Novoselov.
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized by peptide nucleic acids
Authors: Galli Marco , Guerrini Andrea , Cauteruccio Silvia , Thakare Pramod , Dova Davide , Orsini Francesco , Arosio Paolo , Carrara Claudio , Sangregorio Claudio , Lascialfari Alessandro , Maggioni Daniela , Licandro Emanuela
Published: March 2017

Hydrophilic SPION were decorated with PNA decamers by SH/maleimide clickreaction as potential MRI and hyperthermia agents, and PNA carriers.
Understanding the domino reaction between 1-diazopropan-2-one and 1,1-dinitroethylene. A molecular electron density theory study of the [3 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of diazoalkanes with electron-deficient ethylenes
Authors: Domingo Luis R. , Ríos-Gutiérrez Mar , Emamian Saeedreza
Published: March 2017

The domino reaction between 1-diazopropan-2-one and 1,1-dinitroethylene yielding a pyrazole and a gem-dinitrocyclopropane has been studied using molecular electron density theory.
Recent developments in the synthesis and biological activity of acridine/acridone analogues
Authors: Gensicka-Kowalewska Monika , Cholewiński Grzegorz , Dzierzbicka Krystyna
Published: March 2017

Many people in the world struggle with cancer or bacterial, parasitic, viral, Alzheimer's and other diseases.
Synthesis and in vitro leishmanicidal activity of novel [1,2,3]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridine salts
Authors: Martín-Montes Álvaro , Ballesteros-Garrido Rafael , Martín-Escolano Rubén , Marín Clotilde , Guitiérrez-Sánchez Ramón , Abarca Belén , Ballesteros Rafael , Sanchez-Moreno Manuel
Published: March 2017

Leishmaniasis remains a significant worldwide problem; it is of great interest to develop new drugs to fight this disease.
T
1-Weighted MR/CT dual-modality imaging-guided photothermal therapy using gadolinium-functionalized triangular gold nanoprism
Authors: Liu Wenfei , Liu Kai , Zhao Ying , Zhao Shuang , Luo Song , Tian Ying , Teng Zhaogang , Wang Shouju , Lu Guangming
Published: March 2017

Triangular gold nanoprism decorated with gadopentetic acid (TGP–PEG–Gd) for PTT guided by T1-weighted MR/CT dual-modality imaging.
Hyaluronic acid-based carbon dots for efficient gene delivery and cell imaging
Authors: Wang Hai-Jiao , Zhang Ji , Liu Yan-Hong , Luo Tian-Ying , He Xi , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: March 2017

Two polymers were used with no additives to directly construct multifunctional carbon dots by a microwave-assisted method for simultaneous gene delivery and cell imaging.
Ferrous complexes supported by sterically encumbered asymmetric bis(arylimino)acenaphthene (BIAN) ligands: synthesis, characterization and screening for catalytic hydrosilylation of carbonyl compounds
Authors: Yu Xun , Zhu Feifeng , Bu Donglei , Lei Hao
Published: March 2017

Structurally characterized Fe complexes bearing asymmetric bidentate BIAN ligands were synthesized and their use as room-temperature hydrosilylation precatalyst was reported.
Photocurrent of BiVO4 is limited by surface recombination, not surface catalysis
Authors: Zachäus Carolin , Abdi Fatwa F. , Peter Laurence M. , van de Krol Roel
Published: March 2017

The main role of a cobalt phosphate catalyst on BiVO4 is to improve the photocurrent by passivating the surface and suppressing recombination.
High-surface-area plasmonic MoO3−x: rational synthesis and enhanced ammonia borane dehydrogenation activity
Authors: Yin Haibo , Kuwahara Yasutaka , Mori Kohsuke , Cheng Hefeng , Wen Meicheng , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: March 2017

Plasmonic MoO3−x with a high surface area efficiently enhances ammonia borane dehydrogenation activity.
Covalently modified halloysite clay nanotubes: synthesis, properties, biological and medical applications
Authors: Massaro M. , Lazzara G. , Milioto S. , Noto R. , Riela S.
Published: March 2017

Halloysite (HNT) is a promising natural nanosized tubular clay mineral that has many important uses in different industrial fields.
Synthesis of 1C-Aryl/Alkyl 2C-Branched Sugar-Fused Isochroman Derivatives by Sequential Prins and Friedel–Crafts Cyclizations on a Perlin Aldehyde Derived Substrate
Authors: Vankar Yashwant , Rajasekaran Parasuraman , Mallikharjunarao Yakkala
Published: March 2017

The synthesis of C-aryl/alkyl 2C-branched sugar-fused isochromans by using a carbohydrate-derived starting material is described. Our approach makes use of sequential Prins and Friedel–Crafts cyclizations in which a Perlin aldehyde derived homoallylic alcohol is converted into the target molecule. This strategy works well with many aldehydes and gives good yields with excellent selectivity.
Safety and efficacy of minimal biliary sphincterotomy with papillary balloon dilation (m-EBS+EPBD) in patients using clopidogrel or anticoagulation
Authors: Mok Shaffer , Arif Murtaza , Diehl David , Khara Harshit , Ho Henry , Elfant Adam
Published: March 2017

Background and study aims Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS) or endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) are common techniques of biliary decompression. Potential risks include gastrointestinal hemorrhage, which can be increased by antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants (AC) and/or novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) (ie. apixaban, dabigatran and rivaroxaban).

The study aim is to evaluate the safety/efficacy of an alternative technique, minimal-EBS plus EPBD (m-EBS + EPBD), in individuals for whom clopidogrel, AC, and/or NOACs cannot be interrupted due to high cardiovascular or thromboembolic risk.

Patients and methods Patients undergoing m-EBS + EPBD while taking clopidogrel and/or AC were retrospectively evaluated at two United States tertiary care centers for efficacy, GIB and procedure-related, cardiovascular and thromboembolic adverse events (AE).

Results Ninety-five patients were identified [55 = clopidogrel and 45 = AC (31.1 % NOACs)]. The main indication for ERCP was choledocholithiasis (34 %). 100 % clinical improvement and 97.9 % endoscopic success were found. The incidence of AE was 5.3 %. There was a 4.2 % incidence of gastrointestinal hemorrhage (2 cases requiring endoscopic intervention). Both severe gastrointestinal hemorrhages also experienced the cases of post-ERCP pancreatitis, and 2 /3 of cholangitis (all aspirin + AC). There was 1cardiovascular event (non-ST elevation myocardial infarction), and no thromboembolic events.

Conclusions Minimal-EBS + EPBD is an effective and safe therapy with an incidence of gastrointestinal hemorrhage of 4.2 %, (2.1 % requiring endoscopic intervention), for patients on clopidogrel and/or AC, with a high risk for cardiovascular/thromboembolic events.
Research Update: Enhancement of figure of merit for energy-harvesters based on free-standing epitaxial Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)0.99Nb0.01O3 thin-film cantilevers
Authors: Nguyen Minh D. , Houwman Evert , Dekkers Matthijn , Schlom Darrell , Rijnders Guus
Published: March 2017

All-oxide free-standing cantilevers were fabricated with epitaxial (001)-oriented Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 (PZT) and Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)0.99Nb0.01O3 (PNZT) as piezoelectric layers and SrRuO3 electrodes. The ferroelectric and piezoelectric hysteresis loops were measured. From the zero-bias values, the figure-of-merits (FOMs) for piezoelectric energy harvesting systems were calculated. For the PNZT cantilever, an extremely large value FOM = 55 GPa was obtained. This very high value is due to the large shifts of the hysteresis loops such that the zero-bias piezoelectric coefficient e31f is maximum and the zero-bias dielectric constant is strongly reduced compared to the value in the undoped PZT device. The results show that by engineering the self-bias field the energy-harvesting properties of piezoelectric systems can be increased significantly.
Selective interface toughness measurements of layered thin films
Authors: Konetschnik R. , Daniel R. , Brunner R. , Kiener D.
Published: March 2017

Driven by the ongoing miniaturization and increasing integration in microelectronics devices, very thin metallic films became ever more important in recent years. Accordingly also the capability of determining specific physical and mechanical properties of such arrangements gained increasing importance. Miniaturized testing methods to evaluate, for example, the mechanical properties of thin metallic multilayers are therefore indispensable. A novel in-situ micromechanical approach is examined in the current study and compared to existing methods regarding their capability to determine the interface toughness of specific interfaces in multilayer configurations. Namely, sputter deposited copper and tungsten thin films with a thickness of approx. 500 nm on a stress-free silicon (100) substrate are investigated. The multilayer stacks consist of different materials that vary in microstructure, elastic properties and residual stress state. We examine the interface toughness via double cantilever beam tests, nanoindentation and novel miniaturized shear tests. The choice of a proper test method is indispensable when addressing strong interfaces, such as the W-Cu interface, in the presence of weaker ones. Finally, it is demonstrated that miniaturized shear testing is a very promising approach to test such strong interfaces as the interface of interest to fail is predefined by the sample geometry.
Crystal structure and magnetic properties of (Nd,Tb)2Fe14B nanoflakes prepared by surfactant-assisted ball milling
Authors: Li Hongjian , Yue Ming , Li Yuqing , Wu Qiong , Liu Weiqiang , Zhang Dongtao , Lu Qingmei
Published: March 2017

The microstructure, crystal structure, and magnetic properties were studied for (Nd,Tb)2Fe14B nanoflakes prepared by surfactant-assisted high-energy ball milling (HEBM). Effects of ball-milling time on the c-axis crystallographic alignment, morphology, and magnetic properties of (Nd,Tb)2Fe14B nanoflakes were systematically investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicate that the average crystal grain size of the nanoflakes decreases from 60 nm of 1 hour milling to 33 nm of 7 hours milling. The nanoflakes milled for 3 hours bear an average thickness of 100 nm and an average diameter of 2 μm leading to a high aspect ratio of 20. In addition, the intensity ratio of I(006)/I(105) indicates that the degree of c-axis crystal texture increases first, peaks for 3 hours, then drops with increasing the milling time. Meanwhile, the coercivity (Hc) of the nanoflakes drops monotonically. The remanence (Mr) of nanoflakes milled for 3 hours in the easy axis direction is 11 kG, while the Mr in the hard axis direction is 1.8 kG, indicating a strong magnetic anisotropy. The optimal magnetic properties of Mr of 11 kG, and Hc of 7 kOe, (BH)max of 24.7 MGOe have been achieved.
Exchange coupled composite media for heat assisted magnetic recording
Authors: Liu Zengyuan , Victora R. H.
Published: March 2017

Micromagnetic simulation is used to calculate the temperature derivative of the switching field dHsw/dT for a composite media with a superparamagnetic writing layer. The results show that dHsw/dT is reduced for a defined probability of switching, and switching field line width remains almost unchanged. An analytical two-spin model is established to relate exchange coupling between the two layers Jex to energy barrier and the switching probability distribution (SPD). Both the analytical model and micro-magnetic simulation show that the full-width half-maximum FWHM∝(Jex)−0.5 and writing temperature Tsw∝(Jex)−1. It is also found that the writing layer leads the storage layer during switching.
Comparative study and experiment of a double-sided permanent magnet linear synchronous generator according to magnetization pattern
Authors: Seo Sung-Won , Koo Min-Mo , Jang Gang-Hyeon , Kim Kyong-Hwan , Choi Jang-Young
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a comparison of efficiency and mover mass on a double-sided permanent magnet linear synchronous generator (PMLSG) according to its magnetization pattern. When a PMLSG has a lighter mover, it has advantages such as lower cost and other aspects regarding mechanical losses. In general, PMLSGs are used with a vertical PM pattern, but we propose a horizontal PM pattern in this paper because the horizontal PM mover does not need a back-iron for the magnetic path. Electromagnetic field analysis is especially essential when analyzing the characteristics of PMLSGs. For this type of analysis, commercial finite element analysis tools are widely used because they offer convenient user interfaces that provide very accurate analytical results. Based on two-dimensional finite element analysis, we got results for two different patterns and compared them with our experimental results. Finally, the results of this analysis and the test results obtained confirm the validity of the model and the superiority of the horizontal pattern proposed in this paper.
Thermochemical hydrogen generation of indium oxide thin films
Authors: Lim Taekyung , Ju Sanghyun
Published: March 2017

Development of alternative energy resources is an urgent requirement to alleviate current energy constraints. As such, hydrogen gas is gaining attention as a future alternative energy source to address existing issues related to limited energy resources and air pollution. In this study, hydrogen generation by a thermochemical water-splitting process using two types of In2O3 thin films was investigated. The two In2O3 thin films prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and sputtering deposition systems contained different numbers of oxygen vacancies, which were directly related to hydrogen generation. The as-grown In2O3 thin film prepared by CVD generated a large amount of hydrogen because of its abundant oxygen vacancies, while that prepared by sputtering had few oxygen vacancies, resulting in low hydrogen generation. Increasing the temperature of the In2O3 thin film in the reaction chamber caused an increase in hydrogen generation. The oxygen-vacancy-rich In2O3 thin film is expected to provide a highly effective production of hydrogen as a sustainable and efficient energy source.
Spin Hall magnetoresistance at the interface between platinum and cobalt ferrite thin films with large magnetic anisotropy
Authors: Tainosho Takeshi , Niizeki Tomohiko , Inoue Jun-ichiro , Sharmin Sonia , Kita Eiji , Yanagihara Hideto
Published: March 2017

The recently discovered spin Hall magnetoresistance (SMR) effect is a useful means to obtain information on the magnetization process at the interface between a nonmagnetic metal and ferromagnetic insulators. We report the SMR measurements at the interface between platinum and cobalt ferrite thin films for samples with two different preferential directions of magnetization (out-of-plane and in-plane). The directional difference of the magnetic easy axis does not seem to influence the value of SMR.
A Theory of Reduplication: Eightfold Meters in Classical Persian Poetry
Authors: Ahmed Amr Taher
Published: March 2017

It is a known fact that classical Persian poets were partial to poetic meters composed of eight feet, known asmuthamman. On this topic, however, two issues remain unsolved: How did the Persian poets devise these meters in the first place? Despite their flagrant predilection for eightfold meters, why did the Persians never use such meters assarīʿandqarībin this form? This paper argues that the Persians, influenced by the structure of the Arabic eightfold base meters, crafted theirmuthammanmeters after a specific process of reduplication. This theory also accounts for the lack of eightfoldsarīʿandqarībmeters, their structure being incompatible with the reduplication process.
Bioactivity studies of Huh-7 cells derived human epidermal growth factor expressed in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Khan Mohsin Ahmad , Ahmed Nadeem , Khan Muhammad Islam , Zafar Ahmad Usman , Tahir Saad , Anjum Muhammad Sohail , Ali Muhammad , Khan Faidad , Husnain Tayyab
Published: March 2017

Previously, we have reported cloning of human epidermal growth factor gene from Huh-7 cells and its extracellular expression in Pichia pastoris. The presented work is a detailed report regarding molecular characterization of Huh-7 cells-derived hEGF expressed in Pichia pastoris with special reference to its glycosylation profiling and bioactivity studies. Densitometric scanning of SDS-PAGE separated extracellular proteins from hEGF recombinant Pichia pastoris strain indicated that about 84% of the extracellular proteins were glycosylated. Size exclusion chromatography using Superdex 75 prep grade column was successfully utilized to separate fractions containing glycosylated and non-glycosylated extracellular proteins. In dot blot assay, hEGF was detected in both glycosylated and non-glycosylated fractions. Bioactivity assays revealed that both glycosylated and non-glycosylated fractions were bioactive as determined by cell viability assay. It was also observed that hEGF present in non-glycosylated fraction was relatively more bioactive than hEGF present in glycosylated fraction.
A Zoom-Focus algorithm (ZFA) to locate the optimal testing region for rare variant association tests
Authors: Wang Maggie Haitian , Weng Haoyi , Sun Rui , Lee Jack , Wu William Ka Kei , Chong Ka Chun , Zee Benny Chung-Ying
Published: March 2017

Motivation

Increasing amounts of whole exome or genome sequencing data present the challenge of analysing rare variants with extremely small minor allele frequencies. Various statistical tests have been proposed, which are specifically configured to increase power for rare variants by conducting the test within a certain bin, such as a gene or a pathway. However, a gene may contain from several to thousands of markers, and not all of them are related to the phenotype. Combining functional and non-functional variants in an arbitrary genomic region could impair the testing power.

Results

We propose a Zoom-Focus algorithm (ZFA) to locate the optimal testing region within a given genomic region. It can be applied as a wrapper function in existing rare variant association tests to increase testing power. The algorithm consists of two steps. In the first step, Zooming, a given genomic region is partitioned by an order of two, and the best partition is located. In the second step, Focusing, the boundaries of the zoomed region are refined. Simulation studies showed that ZFA substantially increased the statistical power of rare variants’ tests, including the SKAT, SKAT-O, burden test and the W-test. The algorithm was applied on real exome sequencing data of hypertensive disorder, and identified biologically relevant genetic markers to metabolic disorders that were undetectable by a gene-based method. The proposed algorithm is an efficient and powerful tool to enhance the power of association study for whole exome or genome sequencing data.

Availability and Implementation

The ZFA software is available at: http://www2.ccrb.cuhk.edu.hk/statgene/software.html

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
DNA Compass: a secure, client-side site for navigating personal genetic information
Authors: Curnin Charles , Gordon Assaf , Erlich Yaniv
Published: March 2017

Motivation

Millions of individuals have access to raw genomic data using direct-to-consumer companies. The advent of large-scale sequencing projects, such as the Precision Medicine Initiative, will further increase the number of individuals with access to their own genomic information. However, querying genomic data requires a computer terminal and computational skill to analyze the data—an impediment for the general public.

Results

DNA Compass is a website designed to empower the public by enabling simple navigation of personal genomic data. Users can query the status of their genomic variants for over 1658 markers or tens of millions of documented single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). DNA Compass presents the relevant genotypes of the user side-by-side with explanatory scientific resources. The genotype data never leaves the user’s computer, a feature that provides improved security and performance. More than 12 000 unique users, mainly from the general genetic genealogy community, have already used DNA Compass, demonstrating its utility.

Availability and Implementation

DNA Compass is freely available on https://compass.dna.land.
Estimating gene regulatory networks with pandaR
Authors: Schlauch Daniel , Paulson Joseph N , Young Albert , Glass Kimberly , Quackenbush John
Published: March 2017

PANDA (Passing Attributes between Networks for Data Assimilation) is a gene regulatory network inference method that begins with a model of transcription factor–target gene interactions and uses message passing to update the network model given available transcriptomic and protein–protein interaction data. PANDA is used to estimate networks for each experimental group and the network models are then compared between groups to explore transcriptional processes that distinguish the groups. We present pandaR (bioconductor.org/packages/pandaR), a Bioconductor package that implements PANDA and provides a framework for exploratory data analysis on gene regulatory networks.

Availability and Implementation: PandaR is provided as a Bioconductor R Package and is available at bioconductor.org/packages/pandaR.
Underestimated Health Inequalities Among Older People—A Consequence of Excluding the Most Disabled and Disadvantaged
Authors: Kelfve Susanne
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The present study analyzed whether estimates of health inequalities in old age are sensitive to the exclusion of people living in institutions and nonuse of proxy interviews.

Method

Pooled data from the 2004 wave (n = 1,180, aged 69–100, primarily interviewed over the phone) and the 2011 wave (n = 931, aged 76–101, primarily interviewed face-to-face) of the Swedish Panel Study of Living Conditions of the Oldest Old were used to compare absolute and relative differences in disability and mortality between people with compulsory education and people with more than compulsory education.

Results

Both absolute and relative health inequalities would have been underestimated in a survey that excluded institutionalized people and proxy-interviewed community dwellers. The same patterns were found in men and women and regardless of the mode of data collection (telephone or face-to-face interview). The degree of underestimation was lower in those 85 years and older than in those 69 to 84 years.

Discussion

A survey that only includes people who live in the community and can participate without the help of a proxy might give the impression that those with low levels of education have less extensive health disadvantages than they actually have.
Developing an Algorithm for Optimizing Care of Elderly Patients With Glioblastoma
Authors: Flanigan Patrick M , Jahangiri Arman , Kuang Ruby , Truong Albert , Choi Sarah , Chou Alvin , Molinaro Annette M , McDermott Michael W , Berger Mitchel S , Aghi Manish K
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Elderly patients with glioblastoma have an especially poor prognosis; optimizing their medical and surgical care remains of paramount importance.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate patient and treatment characteristics of elderly vs nonelderly patients and develop an algorithm to predict elderly patients’ survival.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 554 patients (mean age = 60.8; 42.0% female) undergoing first glioblastoma resection or biopsy at our institution (2005-2011).

RESULTS

Of the 554 patients, 218 (39%) were elderly (≥65 yr). Compared with nonelderly, elderly patients were more likely to receive biopsy only (26% vs 16%), have ≥1 medical comorbidity (40% vs 20%), and develop postresection morbidity (eg, seizure, delirium; 25% vs 14%), and were less likely to receive temozolomide (TMZ) (78% vs 90%) and gross total resection (31% vs 45%). To predict benefit of resection in elderly patients (n = 161), we identified 5 factors known in the preoperative period that predicted survival in a multivariate analysis. We then assigned points to each (1 point: Charlson comorbidity score >0, subtotal resection, tumor >3 cm; 2 points: preoperative weakness, Charlson comorbidity score >1, tumor >5 cm, age >75 yr; 4 points: age >85 yr). Having 3 to 5 points (n = 78, 56%) was associated with decreased survival compared to 0 to 2 points (n = 41, 29%, 8.5 vs 16.9 mo; P = .001) and increased survival compared to 6 to 9 points (n = 20, 14%, 8.5 vs 4.5 mo; P < .001). Patients with 6 to 9 points did not survive significantly longer than elderly patients receiving biopsy only (n = 57, 4.5 vs 2.7 mo; P = .58).

CONCLUSION

Further optimization of the medical and surgical care of elderly glioblastoma patients may be achieved by providing more beneficial therapies while avoiding unnecessary resection in those not likely to receive benefit from this intervention.
Stent Placement for Disabling Pulsatile Tinnitus Caused by a Lateral Sinus Stenosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lenck Stéphanie , Labeyrie Marc-Antoine , Vallee Fabrice , Saint-Maurice Jean-Pierre , Guillonnet Antoine , Bernat Anne-Laure , Vironneau Pierre , Houdart Emmanuel
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND: Lateral sinus stenosis is a little-known cause for pulsatile tinnitus (PT). In several small series, stenting has been described as an effective treatment for disabling PT linked with this type of stenosis.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical, radiological, and manometric characteristics of patients treated for disabling PT by lateral sinus stenosis. Assessment of the efficacy of stenting for this indication.

METHODS: Retrospective study of patients treated for isolated PT by stenting of a lateral sinus stenosis in our institution, between 2009 and 2015.

RESULTS: Fourteen patients were included in our study. All of them were women. The median age at the onset of symptoms was 39.0 (21.0) years. The median body mass index was 28.5 (7.0) kg/m2. Stenting of the lateral sinus led to the disappearance of PT without recurrence in 13 patients. In one patient, stenting did not modify the noise. In this case, another cause of PT was diagnosed after stent placement.

CONCLUSION: Lateral sinus stenosis is a curable cause of venous PT. Other causes of PT must be ruled out before an endovascular treatment is undertaken, due to the frequent asymptomatic nature of Pacchioni granulations in the lateral sinus. Treatment by stenting is effective in all cases, provided that stenosis underlies the PT.
Access to Contraception in the Context of Zika
Authors: Darney Blair G. , Aiken Abigail R. A. , Küng Stephanie
Published: March 2017

Women in areas of the Americas with endemic Aedes mosquito populations are at risk for exposure to Zika virus, which can cause fetal brain abnormalities and associated congenital microcephaly. Individual health care providers may encounter health system barriers to providing evidence-based care. We focus on Mexico and the state of Texas to highlight the role of health system factors in contraceptive access in the context of Zika and highlight efforts in Puerto Rico as an example of initiatives to improve access to contraception. In Mexico, states with the highest unmet need for contraception are low-lying coastal states. The government recently announced an investment to combat Zika but made no mention of family planning initiatives to assist women in preventing pregnancy. In Texas, the Department of State Health Services has issued recommendations to help women and men avoid mosquito bites; the issue of whether women should plan or avoid pregnancy is not addressed. Puerto Rico has the largest number of confirmed cases of Zika virus in the U.S. states and territories. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Foundation launched the Zika Contraception Access Network, which provides contraceptives at no cost to participating clinics in Puerto Rico. The Zika virus highlights weaknesses in health systems that make it difficult for women to use contraception if they want to delay births. Women across the globe, with or without Zika virus, need access to contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy, and health care providers require functioning health systems that offer support to ensure access is a reality.
Association of Maternal Obesity With Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes in Cases of Uterine Rupture
Authors: Yao Ruofan , Goetzinger Katherine R. , Crimmins Sarah D. , Kopelman Jerome N. , Contag Stephen A.
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the risk of adverse outcomes associated with uterine rupture in the setting of maternal obesity.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective cohort analysis of singleton nonanomalous neonates born after uterine rupture between 34 and 42 weeks of gestation. We derived data from the U.S. Natality Database from 2011 to 2014. Maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) was categorized according to the World Health Organization classification. The rates of neonatal and maternal complications were calculated for each BMI class. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the risks of these complications among obese pregnancies compared with normal-weight pregnancies.

RESULTS:

There were 3,942 cases of uterine rupture identified among 15,860,954 births (0.02%) between 2011 and 2014. Of these, 2,917 (74%) met inclusion criteria for analysis. There was an increased risk of low 5-minute Apgar score (22.9% compared with 15.9%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.49 [1.19–1.87]), neonatal intensive care unit admission (31% compared with 24.6%; adjusted OR 1.51 [1.23–1.85]), and seizure (3.7% compared with 1.9%; adjusted OR 1.80 [1.05–3.10]) in obese compared with normal-weight pregnancies. The rate of prolonged assisted ventilation was 8.5% compared with 6.2% (P=.13), which, after adjustment for confounders, was a statistically significant difference (adjusted OR 1.47 [1.05–2.07]). The rate of neonatal death was similar (12.4 compared with 6.5/1,000 births; adjusted OR 2.03 [0.81–5.05]). The rates of various maternal complications were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION:

In the setting of uterine rupture, maternal obesity moderately increases the risks of low Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit admission, prolonged ventilation, and seizure. Risk of maternal complications and the risk of neonatal death, however, are similar to risks in patients of normal BMI.
Uptake of a Guideline for the Administration of a Rescue Course of Antenatal Corticosteroids
Authors: Datkhaeva Ilina , Dray Danielle , Has Phinnara , Stifani Bianca , Hughes Brenna L. , Rouse Dwight J.
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate use (both appropriate and inappropriate) of rescue corticosteroids before and after the implementation of a guideline for their use.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a pharmacy log to identify women who received an initial course of antenatal corticosteroids in the year before (2008) and in the 4 years (2009–2012) after implementation of the guideline. The charts were then reviewed to determine eligibility and assess receipt of rescue corticosteroids according to the guideline. Our primary study outcome was a temporal change in the percentage of appropriate rescue corticosteroid administration.

RESULTS:

Of 2,528 women who received a first course of corticosteroids, 142 (5.6%) were eligible for a rescue course, of whom 103 (73%) received it. The rate of appropriate administration increased from 18.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5–40%) in 2008 to 65.4% (95% CI 44–83%) in 2009, 93.5% (95% CI 79–99%) in 2010, 96.1% (95% CI 80–99%) in 2011, and 75.7% (95% CI 59–88%) in 2012 (P for test of trend <.001). Only 25 of these 103 eligible women (24.3%) delivered within 2–7 days of receipt of the rescue course. The rate of inappropriate administration among women who were not eligible for a rescue course (n=2,381) also rose from 0.4% (95% CI 0.04–1.4%) in 2008 to 1.9% (95% CI 0.9–3.5%) in 2009, 1.8% (95% CI 0.8–3.6%) in 2010, 2.4% (95% CI 1.2–4.3%) in 2011, and 2.2% (95% CI 1.1–4.0%) in 2012 (P for test of trend=.03). Among all recipients of rescue corticosteroids, 28% (41/144) were ineligible according to the guideline.

CONCLUSION:

Implementation of an institutional guideline for rescue corticosteroids was associated with a high rate of use among eligible women.
Early Results of Surgical Management of Camptodactyly
Authors: Evans Brady T. , Waters Peter M. , Bae Donald S.
Published: March 2017

Background:

We hypothesize that surgery for moderate-to-severe camptodactyly (>50 degrees) results in modest gains in range of motion and improved digital position.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing surgery for camptodactyly at a tertiary children’s hospital between 2000 and 2014 was performed. Surgery was indicated for patients with persistent, functionally limiting flexion contractures despite observation, therapy, and splinting. Data were collected on demographics, clinical history and presentation, nonoperative management, surgery, and clinical follow-up, focusing on range of motion at the involved joint. Total passive motion (TPM) and total active motion (TAM) at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint was calculated at presentation, preoperative visit, first postoperative visit out of the cast, and last follow-up visit. Average postoperative follow-up was 1.4 years.

Results:

In total, 31 digits in 22 patients were reviewed. There were 13 males; average age at surgery was 9.6 years. There were 7 type I (infantile), 8 type II (adolescent), and 7 type III (syndromic) patients. All cases involved the PIP joint; 55% involved the small finger. All patients underwent sequential release of contracted structures until maximal extension without compromising vascularity or joint stability was obtained. Z-plasty of the volar skin was performed in 68% of digits, flexor digitorum superficialis tenotomy in 77%, volar plate release in 58%, and collateral ligament release in 48%. All patients were casted postoperatively for an average of 31 days, and 71% of digits had temporary transarticular pin fixation. At initial presentation, mean TPM and TAM were 34 and 24 degrees, respectively. TPM and TAM were 32 and 19 degrees immediately preoperatively, 30 and 13 at the first postoperative visit, and 35 and 25 at the final follow-up. Furthermore, the position of PIP arc of motion was in a more extended position postoperatively. Average TPM arc of motion was from 50 to 82 degrees preoperatively and 28 to 63 degrees at final follow-up; average TAM arc of motion was 62 to 81 degrees preoperatively and 30 to 55 degrees at final follow-up. There were no clinically meaningful differences in results based on camptodactyly type, preoperative motion, or age at surgery. There were no cases of wound infection or dehiscence. Two patients with recurrent contractures opted for subsequent PIP arthrodesis.

Conclusions:

Total motion of the PIP joint was similar both preoperatively and postoperatively following surgical release of camptodactyly. However postoperatively, the digit was in a more extended position over this arc of motion. For patients with functionally limiting flexion contractures, surgical release may be beneficial by providing a more extended position, for improved digital release, hygiene, and esthetics.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV.