bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editors’ Choice—Electrical Properties and Deep Traps in α-Ga2O3:Sn Films Grown on Sapphire by Halide Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Polyakov A. Y. , Nikolaev V. I. , Stepanov S. I. , Pechnikov A. I. , Yakimov E. B. , Smirnov N. B. , Shchemerov I. V. , Vasilev A. A. , Kochkova A. I. , Chernykh A.V. , Pearton S. J.
Published: April 2020

Films of α-Ga2O3 doped with Sn were grown by halide vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) on planar and patterned sapphire substrates. For planar substrates, with the same high Sn flow, the total concentration of donors was varying from 1017 cm−3 to high 1018 cm−3. The donor centers were shallow states with activation energies 35–60 meV, centers with levels near Ec–(0.1–0.14) eV (E1), and centers with levels near Ec–(0.35–0.4) eV (E2). Deeper electron traps with levels near Ec−0.6 eV (A), near Ec−0.8 eV (B), Ec−1 eV (C) were detected in capacitance or current transient spectroscopy measurements. Annealing of heavily compensated films in molecular hydrogen flow at 500 °C for 0.5 h strongly increased the concentration of the E1 states and increased the density of the E2 and A traps. For films grown on patterned substrates the growth started by the formation of the orthorhombic α-phase in the valleys of the sapphire pattern that was overgrown by the regions of laterally propagating α-phase. No improvement of the crystalline quality of the layers when using patterned substrates was detected. The electric properties, the deep traps spectra, and the effects of hydrogen treatment were similar to the case of planar samples.
Appendicular lean mass is lower in late compared with early perimenopausal women: potential role of FSH
Authors: Park Young-Min , Jankowski Catherine M. , Ozemek Cemal , Hildreth Kerry L. , Kohrt Wendy M. , Moreau Kerrie L.
Published: April 2020

Our data suggest that the late perimenopausal stage may be a vulnerable period for the loss of skeletal muscle, potentially related to elevations in FSH.
Intermittent Fasting: Physiological Implications on Outcomes in Mice and Men
Authors: Lee Ju Hee , Verma Navkiran , Thakkar Nikita , Yeung Christy , Sung Hoon-Ki
Published: April 2020

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a widely practiced dietary method that encompasses periodic restriction of food consumption. Due to its protective benefits against metabolic diseases, aging, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, IF continues to gain attention as a preventative and therapeutic intervention to counteract these chronic diseases. Although numerous animal studies have reported positive health benefits of IF, its feasibility and efficacy in clinical settings remain controversial. Importantly, since dietary interventions such as IF have systemic effects, thoroughly investigating the tissue-specific changes in animal models is crucial to identify IF’s mechanism and evaluate its potential adverse effects in humans. As such, we will review and compare the outcomes and underlying mechanisms of IF in both animal and human studies. Moreover, the limitations of IF and inconsistencies between preclinical and clinical studies will be discussed to provide insight into the gaps between translating research from bench to bedside.
Hyaluronic Acid-IR780 Nanoparticles for Photothermal Ablation in Orthotopic Renal Cancer
Authors: Liu Guangxiang , Lin Tingsheng , Zhang Qing , Zhang Shengjie , Ji Changwei , Zhang Shiwei , Guo Hongqian
Published: April 2020

Renal cancer is one of the most common malignancies in urological tumors; it is necessary to develop a noninvasive and highly targeted thermal ablation method for the treatment of renal tumors. IR780 has been shown to be an effective photothermal agent for tumor thermal ablation. This study was designed to explore the feasibility of applying hyaluronic acid-IR780 nanoparticles (HA-IR780 NPs) for targeted thermal ablation of renal tumors using an in situ renal tumor model. The size of the nanoparticles was 172±8.2 nm; it showed a stable spherical nanostructure with good monodispersity. HA-IR780 NPs showed high photothermal efficiency, with the 20 μg/mL HA-IR780 NPs showing a maximum temperature increase of 24.5°C with 6 min of 808 nm laser irradiation. NIR imaging showed that the nanoparticles exhibited targeted accumulation in renal tumor tissues. The treatment efficacy of the HA-IR780 NPs showed that renal tumors treated with the HA-IR780 NPs and laser irradiation were effectively ablated. Our results showed that the HA-IR780 nanoparticles that mediated the photothermal effect could generate tumor-specific heat for the destruction of a renal tumor in a minimally invasive way, which provides a novel strategy for thermal ablation of renal tumors.
Stevens–Johnson Syndrome and Herpes Simplex Type 1 Infection during Adalimumab Therapy for Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Roselli Jenny , Innocenti Tommaso , Lynch Erica Nicola , Parisio Laura , Apolito Pasquale , Mello Tommaso , Macrì Giuseppe , Milla Monica , Biagini Maria Rosa , Tarocchi Mirko , Milani Stefano , Galli Andrea
Published: April 2020

Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a severe mucocutaneous adverse drug reaction with a relatively high mortality rate. SJS is described during herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) infection and, rarely, even during adalimumab therapy. We report the case of a patient with Crohn’s disease who developed SJS during an HSV1 infection and a contemporaneous anti-TNFα therapy with adalimumab. Remission was achieved with suspension of adalimumab and high doses of intravenous steroids and antivirals. Patients with HSV1 infection and on adalimumab therapy have a combined risk of SJS and should be monitored closely.
Determinants of Low Birth Weight among Newborns Delivered at Public Hospitals in Sidama Zone, South Ethiopia: Unmatched Case-Control Study
Authors: Bekela Muse Bututa , Shimbre Mulugeta Shegaze , Gebabo Teshale Fikadu , Geta Mengesha Boko , Tonga Abayneh Tunje , Zeleke Eshetu Andarge , Sidemo Negussie Boti , Getnet Agegnehu Bante
Published: April 2020

Low birth weight is a global public health problem having various severe and life-threatening health effects. The World Health Organization is working to reduce the prevalence of low birth weight to 30% by the year 2025. Pinpointing the determinants of low birth weight at different scenarios is crucial to reduce the rate of low birth weight in low-income countries which consist of 96.5% of global low birth weight newborns. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess determinants of low birth weight in Sidama Zone public hospitals of South Ethiopia. An institution-based case-control study was conducted from March 1 to May 5, 2019, in Sidama Zone public hospitals. Data were collected from 354 mother-neonate samples with 118 of them having newborns with birth weight<2500 g (cases) and 236 of them having birth weight≥2500 g (controls) using a pretested, interviewer-administered structured questionnaire and medical record review. The odds of being rural dweller women was 3.51 times higher among cases (low birth weight babies) than among controls (normal birth weight babies) as compared to being urban dweller women (AOR=3.51, 95% CI (1.91-6.45)). The likelihood of initiating antenatal care late was 3.22 times more among cases than among controls when compared with timely initiation of antenatal care (AOR=3.22, 95% CI (1.47-7.14)). The probability of having pregnancy-induced hypertension was 4.49 times higher among mothers of the cases than among mothers of the controls as compared to not having pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR=4.49, 95% CI (1.94-10.38)). The odds of not taking iron and folic acid during pregnancy was 3.92 times higher among mothers of the cases than mothers of the controls when compared with taking iron and folic acid (AOR=3.92, 95% CI (1.80-8.50)). The likelihood of having Mid-Upper Arm Circumference MUAC<23 cm was 4.27 times higher among mothers of the cases than among mothers of the controls as compared to having MUAC≥23 cm (AOR=4.27, 95% CI (2.24-8.12)). The probability of having inadequate dietary diversity was 3.75 times higher among cases than among controls as compared to having adequate dietary diversity (AOR=3.75, 95% CI (1.64-8.57)). Interventions targeting the aversion of low birth weight should focus on promotion of iron-folic acid supplementation and dietary diversification through timely initiation of antenatal care.
Participants’ Perspectives of a Primary Exercise-Based Prevention Program for Cardiac Patients: A Prepost Intervention Qualitative Case Study
Authors: Lesage-Moussavou-Nzamba Mélissa , Houle Julie , Trudeau François
Published: April 2020

Perseverance in exercise-based, cardiovascular disease prevention programs is generally very low. The purpose of this case study is to understand the experience of participants enrolled in a 6-month primary and secondary exercise-focused, cardiovascular disease prevention out of hospital program. Ten participants were interviewed about their experiences at entry and after it ended 6 months later to understand the facilitators and difficulties encountered by participants in such exercise programs. Four out of ten participants completed the 6-month program. The six participants who left the program accepted to contribute to the postprogram interview. The results showed that the four participants who persevered in the program became aware of cardiac risk factors and their conditions were willing to make changes in their lifestyles to reach their objectives, felt a strong perception of self-efficacy, and felt like they belonged in the program. Both persevering and nonpersevering participants experienced many episodes of discouragement during the program and faced many barriers that interfered with their progress. Suggestions to help coping with these barriers while reinforcing self-efficacy and the sentiment of belonging are discussed.
A Review of the Health Implications of Heavy Metals in Food Chain in Nigeria
Authors: Nkwunonwo Ugonna C. , Odika Precious O. , Onyia Nneka I.
Published: April 2020

Heavy metals such as Zn, Pb, Fe, and Cu are abundant in the environment and contribute largely to the sustainability and equilibrium of ecosystem processes. However, because of their bioaccumulation, nondegradability, and the excessive amounts in which they exist, these metals contaminate the food chain and subsequently become a source of toxicity to human beings and the entire ecological function. This is a major issue of concern within the study of environmental science and geochemistry. Although there is a global significance to the issue, it seems more immediate for the developing countries (DCs) such as Nigeria, where the pressure of the teeming population escalates the exigency for human sustainability, food security, and total eradication of hunger. Within the Nigerian context, many studies have examined this all-important issue, but most of these studies are fragmented and limited within the purview of mostly individual states and localities within the country. Taken on a wider geographical scale, the discussions and perspectives of these studies on heavy metal contamination of the food chain offer insufficient insight and expose merely a snapshot of the actual situation. As a result of this, a country-wide knowledge base of the implications of heavy metals on the food chain is lacking. Thus, the present study synthesises existing literature and their findings to create a knowledge base on the vulnerability of the food chain in Nigeria. Aquatic foods, fruits, vegetables, and major staple food such as tubers are the major host of carcinogenic and mutagenic components of heavy metals in Nigeria. This study motivates the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), along with other food and agricultural agencies, to intensify their efforts in monitoring and analysing food components, and we advise consumers to eat with certain degrees of caveat.
Dynamic Complexity of a Phytoplankton-Fish Model with the Impulsive Feedback Control by means of Poincaré Map
Authors: Li Dezhao , Liu Yu , Cheng Huidong
Published: April 2020

The phytoplankton-fish model for catching fish with impulsive feedback control is established in this paper. Firstly, the Poincaré map for the phytoplankton-fish model is defined, and the properties of monotonicity, continuity, differentiability, and fixed point of Poincaré map are analyzed. In particular, the continuous and discontinuous properties of Poincaré map under different conditions are discussed. Secondly, we conduct the analysis of the necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence, uniqueness, and global stability of the order-1 periodic solution of the phytoplankton-fish model and obtain the sufficient conditions for the existence of the order-kk≥2 periodic solution of the system. Numerical simulation shows the correctness of our results which show that phytoplankton and fish with the impulsive feedback control can live stably under certain conditions, and the results have certain reference value for the dynamic change of phytoplankton in aquatic ecosystems.
Urban versus Rural Residence and Outcomes in Older Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Kenzik Kelly M. , Rocque Gabrielle B. , Landier Wendy , Bhatia Smita
Published: April 2020

Background:

A total of 20% of the U.S. population resides in rural areas, yet is served by 3% of oncologists, and 7% of nononcology specialists. Access to care issues can be compounded by lower socioeconomic status (SES) in rural areas, yet this issue is unexplored among older patients with breast cancer.

Methods:

Using Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results-Medicare, 109,608 patients diagnosed at ≥65 years with breast cancer between 2000 and 2011 were identified. Residence status was combined with Federal Poverty levels: urban (high, medium, and low poverty) and rural (high, medium, and low poverty). Five-year overall survival (OS) and healthcare utilization [HCU: visits to primary care provider (PCP), oncologist, nononcology specialist, and emergency department (ED)] were examined using urban/low poverty as reference. The residence, HCU, and mortality association was examined using mediation and moderation analyses.

Results:

Median age was 76 years; 12.5% were rural, 15.6% high poverty. Five-year OS was 69.8% for rural and 70.9% for urban. Both urban- and rural/high-poverty patients had a 1.2-fold increased mortality hazard. Rural/high-poverty patients had a higher rate of PCP [year 1 (Y1): incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.23; year 2 (Y2)–year 5 (Y5): IRR = 1.19] and ED visits (Y1: IRR = 1.82; Y2–Y5: IRR = 1.43), but lower nononcology specialist visit rates (Y1: IRR = 0.74; Y2–Y5: IRR = 0.71). Paucity of nononcology specialist visits mediated 23%–57% of excess mortality risk. The interaction between residence/SES and paucity of nononcology specialist visits accounted for 49%–92% of excess mortality risk experienced by rural/high-poverty patients versus urban/low poverty.

Conclusions:

Urban–rural residence mortality differences among older patients with breast cancer are highly predicated by poverty level.

Impact:

Rural/high-poverty patients demonstrate less use of nononcology specialists compared with urban/low poverty, with disparities moderated by specialist use.
Hormone Replacement Therapy, Breast Cancer Risk Factors, and Breast Cancer Risk: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort
Authors: Yoo Tae-Kyung , Han Kyung Do , Kim DaHye , Ahn Juneyoung , Park Woo-Chan , Chae Byung Joo
Published: April 2020

Background:

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increases the risk of breast cancer, but the association may vary according to patient factors. We investigated the association between HRT and breast cancer in a nationwide cohort with risk stratification according to risk factors for breast cancer.

Methods:

Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, 4,558,376 postmenopausal women who underwent breast cancer screening and regular health checkups from 2009 to 2014 were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 696,084 (15.3%) women reported current or previous HRT use. Breast cancer was newly diagnosed in 26,797 (0.6%) women during a median follow-up of 5.35 years. The HR of the risk of breast cancer in HRT users was 1.25 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.22–1.29] compared with HRT nonusers. The risk of breast cancer increased according to HRT duration [adjusted HR = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04–1.12, for <2 years; adjusted HR = 1.33; 95% CI, 1.25–1.40, for 2 to <5 years; and adjusted HR = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.63–1.82, for ≥5 years). The effects of HRT on breast cancer risk applied to both invasive and in situ cancer. The HRT-related risk of breast cancer was higher in women who were leaner and those who had dense breasts.

Conclusions:

This nationwide population-based study confirms the association between HRT use and breast cancer risk. The risk increased proportionally with duration of HRT and differed according to body weight and breast density.

Impacts:

Risk stratification would be useful when deciding whether to apply HRT for relief of menopausal symptoms.
Biomarkers for Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer: The Early Detection Research Network, a Framework for Clinical Translation
Authors: Bresalier Robert S. , Grady William M. , Markowitz Sanford D. , Nielsen Hans Jørgen , Batra Surinder K. , Lampe Paul D.
Published: April 2020

Early detection by screening significantly reduces mortality from colorectal cancer, but 40% of guideline-eligible patients are not screened as recommended in the United States. Novel strategies to improve screening uptake overall and efforts to deploy best practices to underserved populations are a high priority for health care. This review focuses on existing biomarkers in practice and those in development with clinical relevance to early detection of colorectal neoplasia, with an emphasis on those developed by investigators of the NCI's Early Detection Research Network. Aberrantly methylated DNA markers (blood and stool), stool-based markers (including fecal immunochemical test-DNA), and a variety of blood-based marker assays in development (protein markers, glycoproteins including mucins, and cell-free DNA tests) are reviewed. Individual markers and biomarker panels, sample resources, and barriers to translating biomarkers to clinical practice are discussed.

See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, “NCI Early Detection Research Network: Making Cancer Detection Possible.”
Cardiovascular Biology of Prostanoids and Drug Discovery
Authors: Zhu Liyuan , Zhang Yuze , Guo Ziyi , Wang Miao
Published: April 2020

Prostanoids are a group of bioactive lipids that are synthesized de novo from membrane phospholipid-released arachidonic acid and have diverse functions in normal physiology and disease. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which are among the most commonly used medications, ameliorate pain, fever, and inflammation by inhibiting COX (cyclooxygenase), which is the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthetic cascade of prostanoids. The use of NSAIDs selective for COX-2 inhibition increases the risk of a thrombotic event (eg, myocardial infarction and stroke). All NSAIDs are associated with an increased risk of heart failure. Substantial variation in clinical responses to aspirin exists and is associated with cardiovascular risk. Limited clinical studies suggest the involvement of prostanoids in vascular restenosis in patients who received angioplasty intervention. mPGES (microsomal PG [prostaglandin] E synthase)-1, an alternative target downstream of COX, has the potential to be therapeutically targeted for inflammatory disease, with diminished thrombotic risk relative to selective COX-2 inhibitors. mPGES-1–derived PGE
2
critically regulates microcirculation via its receptor EP (receptor for prostanoid E) 4. This review summarizes the actions and associated mechanisms for modulating the biosynthesis of prostanoids in thrombosis, vascular remodeling, and ischemic heart disease as well as their therapeutic relevance.
Megakaryocyte and Platelet Transcriptomics for Discoveries in Human Health and Disease
Authors: Davizon-Castillo Pavel , Rowley Jesse W. , Rondina Matthew T.
Published: April 2020

Anucleate platelets, long viewed as merely cell fragments with a limited repertoire of rapid-acting hemostatic functions, are now recognized to have a complex and dynamic transcriptome mirroring that of many nucleated cells. The field of megakaryocyte and platelet transcriptomics has been rapidly growing, particularly with the advent of newer technologies such as next-generation RNA-sequencing. Studies interrogating the megakaryocyte and platelet transcriptome have led to a number of key insights into human health and disease. In this brief focused review, we will discuss some of the recent discoveries made through transcriptome analysis of megakaryocytes and platelets. We will also highlight the utility of integrating ribosome footprint analysis to augment discoveries. Both bulk and single-cell sequencing approaches will be reviewed, along with comparative studies between human and murine platelets under basal healthy settings and during acute systemic inflammatory diseases.
Healed Plaques in Patients With Stable Angina Pectoris
Authors: Russo Michele , Fracassi Francesco , Kurihara Osamu , Kim Hyung Oh , Thondapu Vikas , Araki Makoto , Shinohara Hiroki , Sugiyama Tomoyo , Yamamoto Erika , Lee Hang , Vergallo Rocco , Crea Filippo , Biasucci Luigi Marzio , Yonetsu Taishi , Minami Yoshiyasu , Soeda Tsunenari , Fuster Valentin , Jang Ik-Kyung
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Healed plaques, signs of previous plaque destabilization, are frequently found in the coronary arteries. Healed plaques can now be diagnosed in living patients. We investigated the prevalence, angiographic, and optical coherence tomography features of healed plaques in patients with stable angina pectoris.

Approach and Results:

Patients with stable angina pectoris who had undergone optical coherence tomography imaging were included. Healed plaques were defined as plaques with one or more signal-rich layers of different optical density. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on layered or nonlayered phenotype at the culprit lesion. Among 163 patients, 87 (53.4%) had layered culprit plaque. Patients with layered culprit plaque had more multivessel disease (62.1% versus 44.7%,
P
=0.027) and more angiographically complex culprit lesions (64.4% versus 35.5%,
P
<0.001). Layered culprit plaques had higher prevalence of lipid plaque (83.9% versus 64.5%,
P
=0.004), macrophage infiltration (58.6% versus 35.5%,
P
=0.003), calcifications (78.2% versus 63.2%,
P
=0.035), and thrombus (28.7% versus 14.5%,
P
=0.029). Lipid index (
P
=0.001) and percent area stenosis (
P
=0.015) were greater in the layered group. The number of nonculprit plaques, evaluated using coronary angiograms, tended to be greater in patients with layered culprit plaque (4.2±2.5 versus 3.5±2.1,
P
=0.053). Nonculprit plaques in patients with layered culprit lesion had higher prevalence of layered pattern (
P
=0.002) and lipid phenotype (
P
=0.005). Lipid index (
P
=0.013) and percent area stenosis (
P
=0.002) were also greater in this group.

Conclusions:

In patients with stable angina pectoris, healed culprit plaques are common and have more features of vulnerability and advanced atherosclerosis both at culprit and nonculprit lesions.
Molecular and Cellular Differences in Cardiac Repair of Male and Female Mice
Authors: Pullen Amanda B. , Kain Vasundhara , Serhan Charles N. , Halade Ganesh V.
Published: April 2020

Background

Leukocyte‐directed biosynthesis of specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs) orchestrates physiological inflammation after myocardial infarction. Deficiency of SPMs drives pathological and nonresolving inflammation, leading to heart failure (HF). Differences in SPMs and inflammatory responses caused by sex‐specific differences are of interest. We differentiated leukocyte‐directed biosynthesis of lipid mediators in male and female mice, focusing on leukocyte populations, structural remodeling, functional recovery, and survival rates.

Methods and Results

Risk‐free male and female C57BL/6 mice were selected as naïve controls or subjected to myocardial infarction surgery. Molecular and cellular mechanisms that differentiate survival, heart function, and structure and leukocyte‐directed lipid mediators were quantified to describe physiological inflammation after myocardial infarction. Female mice show improved survival in acute HF but no statistical difference during chronic HF compared with male mice. Female mice improved survival is marked with functional recovery and limited remodeling compared with male mice. Male and female mice are similarly responsive to arachidonate lipoxygenase (
LOX‐5
,
LOX‐12
,
LOX
‐15) or cyclooxygenase (
COX‐1
,
COX‐2
) in acute HF and particularly male infarcted heart had overall increased SPMs. Female cardiac healing is marked with the biosynthesis of differential p450‐derived product, particularly 11,12 epoxyeicosatrienoic acid in acute HF. A sex‐specific difference of dendritic cells in acute HF is distinct, with limited changes in chronic HF.

Conclusions

Cardiac repair is marked with increased SPM biosynthesis in male mice and amplified epoxyeicosatrienoic acid in female mice. Female mice showed improved survival, functional recovery, and limited remodeling, which are signs of fine‐tuned physiological inflammation after myocardial infarction. These results rationalize the sex‐specific precise therapies and differential treatments in acute and chronic HF.
B7‐33, a Functionally Selective Relaxin Receptor 1 Agonist, Attenuates Myocardial Infarction–Related Adverse Cardiac Remodeling in Mice
Authors: Devarakonda Teja , Mauro Adolfo G. , Guzman Geronimo , Hovsepian Sahak , Cain Chad , Das Anindita , Praveen Praveen , Hossain Mohammed Akhter , Salloum Fadi N.
Published: April 2020

Background

Human relaxin‐2 is a peptide hormone capable of pleiotropic effects in several organ systems. Its recombinant formulation (serelaxin) has been demonstrated to reduce infarct size and prevent excessive scar formation in animal models of cardiac ischemia‐reperfusion injury. B7‐33, a synthetically designed peptide analogous to B‐chain of relaxin‐2, invokes signaling at relaxin family peptide receptor 1 (cognate receptor for relaxin‐2) by preferentially phosphorylating the mitogen‐activated protein kinase extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2. We sought to investigate the effects of B7‐33 treatment post ischemia‐reperfusion injury in mice.

Methods and Results

Adult male
CD
1 mice were subjected to ischemia‐reperfusion via ligation of left anterior descending artery for 30 minutes, followed by 24 hours or 7 days of reperfusion. Echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac function, and cardiac tissue was stained to determine infarct size at 24 hours. B7‐33 significantly reduced infarct size (21.99% versus 45.32%;
P
=0.02) and preserved fractional shortening (29% versus 23%;
P
=0.02) compared with vehicle. The difference in fractional shortening further increased at 7 days post myocardial infarction (29% versus 20% for B7‐33 and vehicle groups, respectively). In vitro
,
primary cardiomyocytes were isolated from adult hearts and subjected to simulated ischemia‐reperfusion injury (simulated ischemia reoxygenation). B7‐33 (50 and 100 nmol/L) improved cell survival and reduced the expression of
GRP
78 (glucose regulated protein), an endoplasmic reticulum stress marker. Subsequently, B7‐33 (100 nmol/L) reduced tunicamycin (2.5 μg/mL) induced upregulation of
GRP
78 in an extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2–dependent manner.

Conclusions

B7‐33 confers acute cardioprotection and limits myocardial infarction–related adverse remodeling in mice by attenuating cardiomyocyte death and endoplasmic reticulum stress as well as preserving cardiac function.
Sovereign Rights on the Extended Continental Shelf: The Case of the Nicaraguan Rise in the Western Caribbean
Authors: Antsygina Ekaterina , Pérez-Salazar Bernardo
Published: April 2020

In 2016, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled on Colombia’s preliminary objections to Nicaragua’s claim over the extended continental shelf in the Western Caribbean, which forms part of a submarine geographic feature known as the ‘Nicaraguan Rise’. This article recalls the long-standing Nicaragua–Colombia conflict over islands and maritime zones and analyses the 2012 and 2016 ICJ decisions with respect to the correlation between the distance and natural prolongation criteria. The article also addresses the role of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf in delimitation, and concludes by discussing the geopolitical consequences of the future ICJ ruling concerning the delimitation of the extended continental shelf.
Property Rights and Governance of Land Resources in Pastoral Areas of the Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Kenee Fekadu Beyene , Tesfaye Gadissa , Teshome Jebessa
Published: April 2020

This article examines customary institutions governing rangeland resources in the Oromia Region, Ethiopia. Using data from different pastoral groups, we employed a case-study approach to explore how property rights are defined and enforced. The study indicates heterogeneity in systems of defining and enforcing rights. Due to the fugitive nature of resource use in pastoral systems, property rights vary seasonally. Though flexibility in the definition of such rights has become central to the survival of pastoral herders, formal administrative boundaries and policies have limited resource access, becoming sources of violent conflict and obstacle to customary systems. Government policies favouring private land use, expansion of large-scale investment on pastoral land, establishment of national parks, and certification of privately used land challenged the smooth functioning of customary land governance. This implies that state intervention should not undermine customary systems but permit them to exercise rangeland governance and ensure pastoral rights to secure livelihoods.
Rwanda: the Political Failure of the UN Security Council
Authors: Keating Ambassador Colin
Published: April 2020

This article discusses the role of the UN Security Council during the crisis in Rwanda in 1993/94. It focuses on the peacekeeping dimensions of the Council’s involvement. It is a perspective from a practitioner, rather than an academic. It also makes some observations about whether the Rwanda crisis has had an enduring influence on Security Council practice. It does not address the impact on practical aspects of peacekeeping or on the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
Moral Equivalence
Authors: Melvern Linda
Published: April 2020

Since the very beginning of the Rwandan Genocide of the Tutsis in 1994, members of Hutu Power, the Akazu, and other interested allies of the former government of Rwanda have been conducting a campaign of genocide denial, one in which they blame the Tutsi dominated Rwandan Patriotic Army for carrying out murder of civilians during the civil war in 1994. In this article Linda Melvern examines the role that Hutu Power played in creating the myth of a counter-genocide and the unwitting legitimacy that was given to it by several UN agencies and their associated employees and consultants. Melvern notes that despite overwhelming evidence that demonstrates that there was no ‘counter genocide’, the lies and misinformation planted in the early post-genocide days persist, with some authors making new unsubstantiated claims about a slaughter of those Hutu who did not flee the country in July 1994.
Gendering Rwanda Genocide and Post-Genocide
Authors: Jones Adam
Published: April 2020

In his chapter, Adam Jones addresses genocide as multi-dimensional crime. He describes two broad typologies of genocide – ‘gendercide’, and ‘root and branch genocide’, which are ‘distinguished by the different operations of the gender variable in each’. As Jones outlines, the Rwanda genocide evidenced broad range of gendered aspects – from leveraging ethnicized gender tropes, through the sometime employment of gender-based genocidal approaches (execution, rape), to the economic and social consequences (planned or not) that are the legacy of gendered genocide. ‘The “gendering” of a given genocide’, he concludes, ‘therefore encompasses the cultural configurations that influence the mobilisation of perpetrators and the targeting of victims, as well as the sexed bodies that are damaged or destroyed in genocidal campaigns’.
Post-Genocide Justice in Rwanda
Authors: Drumbl M.A.
Published: April 2020

The Rwandan genocide triggered a vast number of criminal and quasi-criminal prosecutions. Rwanda therefore constitutes an example of a robust and rapid implementation of criminal accountability for atrocity. Rwanda, moreover, departed from other countries – such as South Africa – by eschewing a truth and reconciliation process as part of a transitional justice process. This chapter unpacks three levels of judicialization that promoted criminal responsibility for atrocity in Rwanda: the ICTR, specialized chambers of national courts, and gacaca proceedings. The ICTR indicted roughly 90 individuals, the national courts convicted in the area of 10,000 defendants (with some proceedings remaining ongoing), while approximately one million individuals proceeded through gacaca. The ICTR and gacaca proceedings have been concluded for several years already. This article summarizes these proceedings, discusses the outcomes and assesses their impact. In addition, this article examines how these three layers of judicialization interfaced with each other.
A review of the biology and biogeography of Mantispidae (Neuroptera)
Authors: Snyman Louwrens Pieter , Ohl Michael , Pirk Christian Walter Werner , Sole Catherine Lynne
Published: April 2020

Adult Mantispidae are general predators of arthropods equipped with raptorial forelegs. The three larval instars display varying degrees of hypermetamorphic ontogeny. The larval stages exhibit a remarkable life history ranging from specialised predators of nest-building hymenopteran larvae and pupa, to specialised predators of spider-eggs, to possible generalist predators of immature insects. Noteworthy advances in our understanding of the biology of Mantispidae has come to light over the past two decades which are compiled and addressed in this review. All interactions of mantispids with other arthropods are tabled and their biology critically discussed and compared to the current classification of the taxon. Additionally, the ambigous systematics within Mantispidae and between Mantispidae and its sister groups, Rhachiberothidae and Berotidae, is reviewed. Considering the biology, systematics, distribution of higher taxonomic levels and the fossil record, the historical biogeography of the group is critically discussed with Gondwana as the epicenter of Mantispidae radiation.
Navicula daochengensis sp. nov., a new freshwater diatom species (Bacillariophyceae) from a small mountain lake, Sichuan Province, China

Authors: WANG TING , WANG JIA-LIN , ZHOU QI-CHAO , CHUDAEV DMITRY A. , KOCIOLEK J. P. , ZHANG WEI
Published: April 2020

In this study, we describe a new freshwater diatom, Navicula daochengensis sp. nov., which was found in a small mountain lake, Lake Congqiancuo, Haizishan Nature Reserve, Daocheng County, Sichuan Province, China. The detailed morphological description of the new species is provided from light and scanning electron micrographs. Navicula daochengensis has a narrowly lanceolate valve outline with broadly-rounded ends. The striate are radiate and convergent to the apices. This new species is compared with similar species, such as Navicula elongata, N. venerablis, N. moralesii and N. radiosa, which differ in size, valve shape, striae density and ultrastructure.
Erratum: PÉTER KÓBOR (2020) An overview of the big-eyed bug fauna of French Polynesia (Heteroptera: Lygaeoidea: Geocoridae). Zootaxa, 4743: 359–370.
Authors: KÓBOR PÉTER
Published: April 2020

In the list of the type material of Germalus ashlocki new species (page 362) the depository of the holotype was omitted by error. As a consequence, the name of the species is unavailable (International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, Fourth edition, Art. 16.4.2). It is hereby stated that the holotype is a male deposited in the Snow Entomological Museum, University of Kansas (SEMC). The purpose of this note is to validate the name of the new species from the publication date of this erratum by a reference to the original description as indication.
A new species of Haematobosca Bezzi (Diptera: Muscidae) from Thailand
Authors: PONT ADRIAN C , DUVALLET GÉRARD , CHANGBUNJONG TANASAK
Published: April 2020

A new species of biting-fly from northern Thailand is described as Haematobosca aberrans sp. nov. (Muscidae). It differs from all known species of Haematobosca by the absence of the anterior katepisternal seta.
Fabrication, Structural Characterization and Formation Mechanism of Multiferroic BiFeO3 Nanotubes
Authors: Singh Satyendra , Krupanidhi S. B.
Published: April 2020

Multiferroic BiFeO3 (BFO) nanotubes have been successfully fabricated by the modified sol–gel method within the nanochannels of porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates. The morphology, structure and composition of the nanotubes were characterized by X-ray diffraction
(XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), selected-area electron diffraction (SAED), high resolution TEM, (HRTEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Postannealed (650 °C for 1 h), BFO nanotubes were polycrystalline and X-ray diffraction
study revealed that they are of the rhomohedrally distorted perovskite crystal structure. The results of SEM and TEM revealed that BFO nanotubes possessed a uniform length (up to 60 μm) and diameter (about 200 nm), which were controlled by the thickness and the pore diameter of the applied
AAO template, respectively and the thickness of the wall of the BFO nanotube was about 15 nm. Y-junctions in the BFO nanotubes were observed. EDX analysis demonstrated that stoichiometric BiFeO3 was formed. HRTEM analysis confirmed that the obtained BFO nanotubes made up of nanoparticles
(3–6 nm). The possible formation mechanism of BFO nanotubes was discussed.
Photophysical Studies and In Vitro Skin Permeation/Retention of Foscan®/Nanoemulsion (NE) Applicable to Photodynamic Therapy Skin Cancer Treatment
Authors: Primo Fernando L. , Bentley Maria V. L. B. , Tedesco Antonio C.
Published: April 2020

In this work we evaluated the photophysical and in vitro properties of Foscan®, a second-generation photosensitizer drug (PS) widely used in systemic clinical protocols for cancer therapy based on Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). We employed biodegradable nanoemulsions
(NE) as a colloidal vehicle of the oil/water (o/w) type focusing in topical administration of Foscan® and other photosensitizer drugs. This formulation was obtained and stabilized by the methodology described by Tabosa do Egito et al., based on the mixture of two phases: an
aqueous solution and an organic medium consisting of nonionic surfactants and oil. The photodynamic potential of the drug incorporated into the NE was studied by steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopic techniques. We also analyzed the in vitro biological behavior carried out in
mimetic biological environment protocols based on the animal model. After topical application in a skin animal model, we evaluated the Foscan®/NE diffusion flux into the skin layers (stratum corneum and epidermis + dermis) by classical procedures using Franz
Diffusion cells. Our results showed that the photophysical properties of PS were maintained after its incorporation into the NE when compared with homogeneous organic medium. The in vitro assays enabled the determination of an adequate profile for the interaction of this system in the
different skin layers, with an ideal time lag of 6 h after topical administration in the skin model. The Foscan® diffusion flux (J) was increased when this PS was incorporated into the NE, if compared with its flux in physiological medium. These parameters demonstrated
that the NE can be potentially applied as a drug delivery system (DDS) for Foscan® in both in vitro and in vivo assays, as well as in future clinical applications involving topical skin cancer PDT.
Fabrication and Application of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Library on Magnetic Nanoparticles Using Adaptor PCR
Authors: Liu Hongna , Li Song , Ji Meiju , Nie Libo , Chen Jianrong , Miao Yuqing , He Nongyue
Published: April 2020

We have developed a novel approach to fabricate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) library on magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) based on adaptor PCR. Each SNP locus in the library was interrogated by hybridization with a pair of allele specific dual-color fluorescence (Cy3, Cy5) probes
to determine SNP. Two SNPs loci (M235T and A-6G) associated with essential hypertension in the angiotensinogen (AGT) gene were detected by this method and their fluorescent signals were quantified. The fluorescent ratios (match probe: mismatch probe signal) of homozygous genotypes were over
3.0, whereas heterozygous genotypes had ratios near to 1.0. Without any complex multiplex PCR procedure, it is a simple, efficient and reliable method for the multiplex SNPs detection using limited amount of DNA samples from individuals.
Shape-Controlled Synthesis of Polypyrrole/Ag Nanostructures in the Presence of Chitosan
Authors: Feng Xiaomiao , Huang Haiping , Xu Lin , Zhu Jun-Jie , Hou Wenhua
Published: April 2020

Polypyrrole (PPy)-coated Ag nanoparticles and nanowires were fabricated through the redox reaction between pyrrole monomer and silver nitrate in the presence of chitosan. The morphologies, compositions, and electrochemical activities of PPy/Ag composites were characterized by scanning
electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Cyclic voltammetry. The synthetic route employed here is simple and inexpensive and can be extended to prepare other conducting polymer/inorganic
nanocomposites.
Quantum Efficiency and Surface Passivation Effect of Nanocrystalline Y2O3:Eu3+
Authors: Chen Baojiu , Meng Qingyu , Zhong Haiyang , Sun Jiashi , Cheng Lihong , Peng Yong , Yu Tao , Chen Miao
Published: April 2020

Cubic nano-crystalline Y2O3:Eu3+ powders with different grain sizes were produced by chemical auto-combustion, and their structure, morphology, and fluorescent spectra were characterized. The quantum efficiency of the 5D0 level
of Eu3+ was estimated, taking into account the energy transfer between Eu3+ ions located at C2 and S6 sites. Ag+ ions were introduced into the synthesis of the nanosized particles to modify the surface defects, resulting
in increased emission intensity. These results indicated that the nanosized Y2O3:Eu3+ exhibits maximum internal quantum efficiency close to 90% after Ag+ ions are introduced into the synthesis of Y2O3:Eu3+. From the
experimental results, it was concluded that the Ag+ ions are probably absorbed by the nanoparticle surface and do not enter the nanoparticle lattice. It was also found that the Ag+ ions can repair the surface defects and make the absorption of excitation light more efficient.
Effects of Mineral Tourmaline Particles on the Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2 Thin Films
Authors: Meng Junping , Liang Jinsheng , Ou Xiuqin , Ding Yan , Liang Guangchuan
Published: April 2020

Titania composite thin films (T/TiO2) containing tourmaline particles were prepared by a sol–gel method, using alkoxide solutions as precursor. The tourmaline particles and thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy,
scanning electron microscopy, and so on. The effects of tourmaline on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 were measured with methyl orange as an objective photodegradation substance. The results showed that the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange conformed to the first-order
kinetic equation and the composite thin films had better photocatalytic activity due to the cooperation of polarity and the far infrared emission of tourmaline. The T/TiO2 thin films including 0.5 wt% tourmaline exhibited better photocatalytic activity when heat-treated at 250 °C
for 3 h, than pure TiO2 thin films under the ultraviolet irradiation.
Synthesis and Photoluminescence of ZnS Quantum Dots
Authors: Wang Yu Hua , Chen Zhong , Zhou Xiao Qun
Published: April 2020

Single-phase zinc sulphide (ZnS) quantum dots were synthesized by a chemical method. The influence of the pH value of the Zn(CH3COO)2 solution on the size and photoluminescence properties of the ZnS quantum dots was evaluated. X-ray power diffraction, transmission
electron microscopy, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure, size, surface states, and photoluminescence properties of ZnS quantum dots. The results showed that the crystal structure of ZnS quantum dots was a cubic zinc blende structure, and their average
diameter was about 3.0 nm. ZnS quantum dots with good distribution and high purity were obtained. A strong broad band centered at about 320 nm was observed in the excitation spectrum of ZnS quantum dots. Their emission spectrum peaking at about 408 nm, was due mostly to the trap-state emission.
The relative integrated emission intensity of ZnS quantum dots decreased as the pH value of the Zn(CH3COO)2 solution increased, which could be ascribed to the increase in average diameter of the ZnS quantum dots as the pH value of Zn(CH3COO)2 solution
increased.
Luminescence Properties of SnO2 Nanoparticles Dispersed in Eu3+ Doped SiO2 Matrix
Authors: Ningthoujam R. S. , Sudarsan V. , Vinu A. , Srinivasu P. , Ariga K. , Kulshreshtha S. K. , Tyagi A. K.
Published: April 2020

SnO2 nanoparticles dispersed in Eu3+ doped silica (SnO2-SiO2:Eu3+) were prepared at a low temperature (185 °C) in ethylene glycol medium. Transmission electron microscopy studies on as-prepared samples have established that
SnO2 nanoparticles having size of 4.6 nm are uniformly covered by the SiO2 matrix. Significant extent of exciton mediated energy transfer between SnO2 and Eu3+ ions in heat treated SnO2-SiO2:Eu3+ samples has been
attributed to the diffusion of Eu3+ ions from the SiO2 matrix to the near vicinity of SnO2 nanoparticles and its incorporation in the SnO2 matrix. On the other hand, very weak energy transfer exists for SnO2:Eu3+ nanoparticles
heated at different temperatures due to the phase segregation of Eu3+ ions from the matrix.
Oxygen and Water Vapor Barrier Properties of MMT Nanocomposites from Low Density Polyethylene or EPM with Grafted Succinic Groups
Authors: Passaglia Elisa , Bertoldo Monica , Ceriegi Silvia , Sulcis Roberta , Narducci Piero , Conzatti Lucia
Published: April 2020

LDPE, EPM and their derivatives containing a moderate amount (0.08–1.8 by mol) of diethylsuccinate or succinic anhydryde groups were used as matrices in blending with different amount of organophilic montmorillonites and the resulting composite morphology and structure (by XRD,
SEM, TEM microscopy, DSC analysis and selective solvent extraction) were studied with reference to the polar groups/MMT ratio. Exfoliated, intercalated and mixed morphologies were achieved. High concentrations of polar groups grafted to the polyolefin and montmorillonite loading not larger
than 5% wt were favourable for obtaining high exfoliation degree. Particularly in the exfoliated MMT composite LDPE had lower crystallinity degree, while EPM showed increased glass transition temperature and reduced solubility in hot toluene. Moreover, oxygen and water vapor barrier property
improvement was observed in films where MMT exhibits either exfoliated or intercalated morphologies. Strong interactions with the montmorillonite particle surface through the polar groups grafted to the polyolefin seems to be the basic effect responsible for the morphology and peculiar properties.
A model based on the reduced mobility of the polymer located near the particle surface or inside the MMT gallery (confined phase) was proposed to explain the observed oxygen permeability reduction, the Tg increase and solubility of poly(ethylene-ran-propylene)/MMT nanocomposites.