bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible and Near‐Infrared Imaging with Nonfullerene‐Based Photodetectors
Authors: Gasparini Nicola , Gregori Alberto , Salvador Michael , Biele Markus , Wadsworth Andrew , Tedde Sandro , Baran Derya , McCulloch Iain , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: June 2018

The solution‐processed organic photodetectors underpin an emerging technology with inherent implications in the biological sensors and imaging displays. Conventional organic photodiodes, the core element of an organic photodetector, rely mainly on fullerene‐based acceptors, which in combination with high and middle bandgap donors, limit the spectral photosensitivity to the visible range. Even in the case of low bandgap polymers the oscillator strength and thus the extinction coefficient are usually limited in the NIR due to the nature of molecular orbital hybridization. Instead, it is showed that pairing prototypical poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) with rhodanine‐benzothiadiazole‐coupled indacenodithiophene (IDTBR), a nonfullerene electron acceptor absorbing beyond 750 nm, as the photoactive material of a simple photodiode results in a highly efficient organic photodetector with a record responsivity of 0.42 A W−1 and external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 69% in the NIR (755 nm). Nonfullerene‐based photodiodes are processed on amorphous silicon active matrix backplanes to realize large area flat panel photodetector imagers able to detect objects under visible and NIR light conditions with an exceptional combination of responsivity, dynamic response and image crosstalk.
Structural Tuning of Polymers of Intrinsic Microporosity via the Copolymerization with Macrocyclic 4‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene for Enhanced Gas Separation Performance
Authors: Wu Ji , Liu Jiangtao , Chung Tai‐Shung
Published: June 2018

4‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene (CA) is chemically incorporated into polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIM‐1) via a one‐step nucleophilic copolymerization reaction to study the unprecedented synergistic effects of polymer structural tuning and the unique 3D cavity of CA on gas separation performance. From the wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PALS), two opposing structural effects of CA incorporation on polymer chains are found, with one being expansive for fractional free volume (FFV) and the other contractive. The bulky cup‐shape CA cavity reduces the chain packing efficiency, which increases FFV and the gas permeability, but the smaller dihedral angle of CA shrinks FFV, leading to the enhanced gas selectivity. More interestingly, CA's unique 3D open cavities also favor selective passage of gas molecules. These combinative effects impart PIM‐CA copolymer membranes with attractive and tunable gas transport properties. The gas permeability improves dominantly at small CA loadings while the selectivity is enhanced significantly at higher loadings, allowing PIM‐CA membranes with ≥1% CA loadings to perform beyond 2008 Robeson upper bounds for H2/N2, H2/CH4, CO2/N2, and CO2/CH4 separations. As a cheap commercial product with high chemical versatility, CA can expand the spectrum of PIM‐based membrane designs for more efficient hydrogen and natural gas purification processes.
Season, age, and sex affect the fecal mycobiota of free‐ranging Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana)
Authors: Sun Binghua , Gu Zhiyuan , Wang Xi , Huffman Michael A. , Garber Paul A. , Sheeran Lori K. , Zhang Dao , Zhu Yong , Xia Dong‐Po , Li Jin‐hua
Published: June 2018

Recent studies highlight that the gut mycobiota play essential roles in mammalian metabolic and immune systems, but to date we lack information on the forces that naturally shape the gut mycobiota of wild primates. To investigate the contributions of host and environmental factors in the taxonomic variation of the gut mycobiota, we examined the effects of age, sex, and season on the fecal mycobiota in wild‐living Tibetan macaques (Macaca thibetana). Using next generation sequencing and a longitudinal set of fecal samples collected over 1 year, we identified a set of core fungal taxa present in the Tibetan macaque's fecal samples. The predominant genera Aspergillus and Penicillium, which promote the digestion of cellulose and hemicellulose in herbivorous mammals, were detected in this study. Similar to humans, we found age and sex effects on the macaques’ fecal mycobiota. We also found that both fecal fungal composition and diversity (alpha and beta diversity) varied significantly by season. In particular, the Penicillium enriched mycobiota in summer samples may aid in the digestion of cellulose and hemicellulose present in mature leaves. The high alpha diversity detected in Tibetan macaques’ winter fecal samples may facilitate a diet rich in fiber ingested during this season. We propose that the gut mycobiota play an important role in the macaques’ ability to adapt to seasonal fluctuations in food availability and nutrient content.
hcp‐Co Nanowires Grown on Metallic Foams as Catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Harmel Justine , Peres Laurent , Estrader Marta , Berliet Adrien , Maury Sylvie , Fécant Antoine , Chaudret Bruno , Serp Philippe , Soulantica Katerina
Published: June 2018

The Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is a structure‐sensitive exothermic reaction that enables catalytic transformation of syngas to high quality liquid fuels. Now, monolithic cobalt‐based heterogeneous catalysts were elaborated through a wet chemistry approach that allows control over nanocrystal shape and crystallographic phase, while at the same time enables heat management. Copper and nickel foams have been employed as supports for the epitaxial growth of hcp‐Co nanowires directly from a solution containing a coordination compound of cobalt and stabilizing ligands. The Co/Cufoam catalyst was tested for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis in a fixed‐bed reactor, showing stability and significantly superior activity and selectivity towards C5+ compared to a Co/SiO2‐Al2O3 reference catalyst under the same conditions.
5‐Formyluracil as a Multifunctional Building Block in Biosensor Designs
Authors: Liu Chaoxing , Zou Guangrong , Peng Shuang , Wang Yafen , Yang Wei , Wu Fan , Jiang Zhuoran , Zhang Xiong , Zhou Xiang
Published: June 2018

In organisms 5‐formyluracil (5fU), which is known as a vital natural nucleobase, is widely present. Despite the recent development of sensor designs for organic fluorescent molecules for selective targeting applications, biocompatible and easily operated probe designs that are based on natural nucleobase modifications have rarely been reported. Here, we introduce the idea of 5fU as a multifunctional building block to facilitate the design and synthetic development of biosensors. The azide group was derived from the sugar of a nucleoside, which can be further used in the selective binding of cells or organelles through click chemistry with alkynyl‐modified targeting groups. The aldehyde group of 5fU can react with different chemicals to generate environmentally sensitive nucleobases that have obvious characteristics, which precious reactants cannot achieve for selective fluorogenic switch‐on detection of a specific target. We first synthesized 5fU analogues that had aggregation‐induced emission properties, and then we used triphenylphosphonium as a mitochondria‐targeting group to selectively image mitochondria in cancer cells and mouse embryonic stem cells. Additionally, the reagents exhibit a high selectivity for reaction with 5fU, which means that the method can also be used for the detection of 5fU. Combining the two characteristics, the idea of 5fU as a multifunctional building block in biosensor designs may potentially be applicable in 5fU site‐specific microenvironment detection in future research.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy response influences outcomes in non-colorectal, non-neuroendocrine liver metastases
Authors: Lucchese A M , Kalil A N , Ruiz A , Karam V , Ciacio O , Pittau G , Castaing D , Cherqui D , Sa Cunha A , Vibert E , Adam R
Published: June 2018

Background

Indications for surgical resection of non-colorectal, non-neuroendocrine (NCNNE) liver metastases are unclear. This study analysed the influence of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the presence of extrahepatic disease (EHD) on outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent hepatic resection for NCNNE liver metastases and who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy at a single centre between 1982 and 2016 were analysed retrospectively. Patients were classified as having no EHD, controlled EHD or non-controlled EHD.

Results

Hepatic resection was performed in 199 patients (81·2 per cent) after partial or complete response to chemotherapy or disease stabilization, and 46 patients (18·8 per cent) after tumour progression. Patients with progressive disease after chemotherapy had worse overall survival than those without (23 versus 50·4 per cent at 5 years; P = 0·004). Median survival was 63·6 (range 31·1–94·8) months for patients without EHD, 34·8 (19·2–49·2) months for those with controlled EHD and 7·2 (1·2–13·2) months for patients with non-controlled EHD (P = 0·004). In multivariable analysis, EHD (P = 0·004), response to chemotherapy (P = 0·004) and resection margins (P = 0·002) were all independent predictors of overall survival, regardless of primary tumour site.

Conclusion

The prognosis of patients with NCNNE liver metastases is influenced by preoperative chemotherapy and resectability.
Magnetic resonance tumour regression grade and pathological correlates in patients with rectal cancer
Authors: Jang J K , Lee J L , Park S H , Park H J , Park I J , Kim J H , Choi S H , Kim J , Yu C S , Kim J C
Published: June 2018

Background

Evidence to support the specific use of magnetic resonance tumour regression grade (mrTRG) is inadequate. The aim of this study was to investigate the pathological characteristics of mrTRG after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for rectal cancer and the implications for surgery.

Methods

Patients undergoing long-course CRT (45–50 Gy plus a booster dose of 4–6 Gy) for mid or low rectal cancer (cT3−4 or cN+ without metastasis) between 2011 and 2015 who had post-CRT rectal MRI before surgery were included retrospectively. Three board-certified experienced radiologists assessed mrTRG. mrTRG was correlated with pathological tumour regression grade (pTRG), ypT and ypN. In a subgroup of patients with mrTRG1−2 and no tumour spread (such as nodal metastasis) on MRI, the projected rate of completion total mesorectal excision (TME) if they underwent transanal excision (TAE) and had a ypT status of ypT2 or higher was estimated, and recurrence-free survival was calculated according to the operation (TME or TAE) that patients had actually received.

Results

Some 439 patients (290 men and 149 women of mean(s.d.) age 62·2(11·4) years) were analysed. The accuracy of mrTRG1 for predicting pTRG1 was 61 per cent (40 of 66), and that for ypT1 or less was 74 per cent (49 of 66). For mrTRG2, these values were 22·3 per cent (25 of 112) and 36·6 per cent (41 of 112) respectively. Patients with mrTRG1 and mrTRG2 without tumour spread were ypN+ in 3 per cent (1 of 29) and 16 per cent (8 of 50) respectively. Assuming mrTRG1 or mrTRG1−2 with no tumour spread on post-CRT MRI as the criteria for TAE, the projected completion TME rate was 26 per cent (11 of 43) and 41·0 per cent (41 of 100) respectively. For the 100 patients with mrTRG1–2 and no tumour spread, recurrence-free survival did not differ significantly between TME (79 patients) and TAE (21) (adjusted hazard ratio 1·86, 95 per cent c.i. 0·42 to 8·18).

Conclusion

Patients with mrTRG1 without tumour spread may be suitable for TAE.
Emerging Applications of Fluorogenic and Non‐fluorogenic Bifunctional Linkers
Authors: Liu Guhuan , Hu Jinming , Liu Shiyong
Published: June 2018

Homo‐ and hetero‐bifunctional linkers play vital roles in constructing a variety of functional systems, ranging from protein bioconjugates with drugs and functional agents, to surface modification of nanoparticles and living cells, and to the cyclization/dimerization of synthetic polymers and biomolecules. Conventional approaches for assaying conjugation extents typically rely on ex situ techniques, such as mass spectrometry, gel electrophoresis, and size‐exclusion chromatography. If the conjugation process involving bifunctional linkers was rendered fluorogenic, then in situ monitoring, quantification, and optical tracking/visualization of relevant processes would be achieved. In this review, conventional non‐fluorogenic linkers are first discussed. Then the focus is on the evolution and emerging applications of fluorogenic bifunctional linkers, which are categorized into hetero‐bifunctional single‐caging fluorogenic linkers, homo‐bifunctional double‐caging fluorogenic linkers, and hetero‐bifunctional double‐caging fluorogenic linkers. In addition, stimuli‐cleavable bifunctional linkers designed for both conjugation and subsequent site‐specific triggered release are also summarized.
Positional Isomers of Chromophore–Peptide Conjugates Self‐Assemble into Different Morphologies
Authors: Lewandowska Urszula , Corra Stefano , Zajaczkowski Wojciech , Ochs Nellie A. K. , Shoshan Michal S. , Tanabe Junki , Stappert Sebastian , Li Chen , Yashima Eiji , Pisula Wojciech , Müllen Klaus , Wennemers Helma
Published: June 2018

Ordering π‐systems into defined supramolecular structures is important for the development of organic functional materials. In recent years, peptides with defined secondary structures and/or self‐assembly properties were introduced as powerful tools to order peptide–chromophore conjugates into different morphologies. This work explores whether or not the directionality of peptides can be used to control the self‐assembly. The position of the π‐system in conjugates between oligoprolines and perylene monoimide (PMI) chromophores was varied by attaching the PMI moiety to the second‐to‐last residue from the C‐ and N‐termini, respectively. Microscopic and diffraction analysis revealed that the positional isomers form distinctly different supramolecular architectures that extend into the micrometer regime. NMR spectroscopic studies in solution phase allowed correlation of the self‐assembly properties with markedly different conformational preferences of the isomeric building blocks. These insights enabled the design of building blocks with predictable self‐assembly properties. Thus, the directionality of peptides offers exciting opportunities for controlling the self‐assembly and electronic properties of π‐systems.
Polarization Gratings Spontaneously Formed from a Helical Twist‐Bend Nematic Phase
Authors: Vaupotič Nataša , Ali Muhammad , Majewski Paweł W. , Gorecka Ewa , Pociecha Damian
Published: June 2018

Spontaneous formation of polarization gratings by liquid crystalline phase made of bent dimeric molecules is reported. The grating is formed within the temperature range of the twist bend modulated nematic phase, NTB, without the necessity to pattern the cell surfaces, therefore the modulated nematic phase is a promising candidate for low‐cost modulators and beam steering devices, the polarization properties of which depend on temperature. In addition, the study of the diffracted light properties turns out to be a sensitive measuring technique for determination of the 3D spatial variation of the optic axis in the cell.
Unravelling the effect of flow regime on macroinvertebrates and benthic algae in regulated versus unregulated streams
Authors: Schneider Susanne C. , Sample James E. , Moe Jannicke S. , Petrin Zlatko , Meissner Thomas , Hering Daniel
Published: June 2018

Variability in riverine flow regimes is important for aquatic biodiversity. However, across the globe, management of water resources has altered natural flow dynamics. We explored relationships between flow regime (calculated from 3 years' daily averaged discharge), and water chemistry, benthic algae, as well as macroinvertebrate datasets from 64 sites across Germany and Norway. To deal with multicollinearity while maintaining interpretability, we performed principal component (PC) analyses for each dataset in each country and selected the metric with the highest absolute loading on each PC to represent that PC. We then used L1‐regularized (lasso) regression to link differences in water chemistry and hydrology to differences in ecology and compared this approach with the more popular best‐subsets ordinary least squares (OLS) regression.

The results obtained using lasso regression were broadly comparable to those produced by best‐subsets OLS, but the lasso approach “rejected” more models than the best‐subsets approach. When lasso identified a plausible model, it was the same or similar to the best model found by best‐subsets OLS. The lasso method was more “discerning”, that is, it identified a smaller number of potentially interesting models, whereas best‐subsets regression seemed to find “too many” relationships. We identified two response variables that were potentially affected by regulation: (a) River regulation may lead to higher cyanobacterial abundance, possibly via a less variable flow regime; (b) reduced flow variability may lead to a reduced proportion of grazers and scrapers, possibly indicating a shift towards an increased importance of heterotrophic energy sources in ecosystems with less variable flows.
Dung beetle‐mediated soil modification: a data set for analyzing the effects of a recent introduction on soil quality
Authors: Jones Matthew S. , Tylianakis Jason M. , Reganold John P. , Snyder William E.
Published: June 2018

Globally, dung beetles (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) are linked to many critical ecosystem processes involving the consumption and breakdown of mammal dung. Due to New Zealand's unique evolutionary history, resulting from its geographic isolation from Gondwana, endemic dung‐dwelling fauna evolved in the absence of large mammals. Europeans introduced livestock to the islands in the late 18th and 19th centuries, resulting in a buildup of undecomposed feces and unrecycled nutrients due to the absence of dung beetles. To mitigate this situation, in 2011, the New Zealand Environmental Protection Agency approved the release of 11 species of exotic beetles with the expectation that these insects would fulfill a critically missing link in converting aboveground manure biomass into higher quality soils belowground. Widespread releases began in 2014. To enable others in the future to test the environmental impacts of the beetle introductions, we present a detailed characterization of soil physical, chemical, and biological properties, shortly after the initial and intentional introduction of dung beetles to 16 release sites across both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. As beetle populations become established, these baseline data will enable quantification of the degree to which different exotic dung beetle communities can modify soils, specifically if they facilitate soil nutrient cycling. There are no copyright or proprietary restrictions for research or teaching purposes. Usage of the data set must be cited by referencing this publication.
Stoichiometry controls asymbiotic nitrogen fixation and its response to nitrogen inputs in a nitrogen‐saturated forest
Authors: Zheng Mianhai , Zhang Wei , Luo Yiqi , Li Dejun , Wang Senhao , Huang Juan , Lu Xiankai , Mo Jiangming
Published: June 2018

Lowland tropical forests with chronic nitrogen (N) deposition and/or abundant N‐fixing organisms are commonly rich in N relative to other nutrients. The tropical N richness introduces a paradoxical relationship in which many tropical forests sustain high rates of asymbiotic N fixation despite the soil N richness and the higher energy cost of N fixation than of soil N uptake. However, the mechanism underlying this phenomenon remains unclear. Our study aims to test this phenomenon and examine potential mechanisms of nutrient concentrations vs. substrate stoichiometry in regulating N fixation using multiple linear regression models. We hypothesized that the rates of asymbiotic N fixation would be low in an N‐rich forest under N deposition and substrate stoichiometry would explain the variation in N fixation better than nutrient concentrations. We conducted a chronic N‐addition experiment in an N‐saturated tropical forest in southern China and measured the N fixation rates, carbon (C), N, and phosphorus (P) concentrations, and stoichiometry in different substrates (soil, forest floor, mosses, and canopy leaves). Total N fixation rates were high (10.35–12.43 kg N·ha−1·yr−1) in this N‐saturated forest because of the high substrate C:N and N:P stoichiometry (which explained 13–52% of the variation in N fixation,P < 0.037) rather than substrate nutrient concentrations (P > 0.05). Atmospheric N deposition (34–50 kg N·ha−1·yr−1) failed to down‐regulate asymbiotic N fixation in this forest possibly because the N deposition rate was insufficient to inhibit N fixation or N deposition maintained high N fixation rates by increasing C sequestration in the substrates. Our N‐addition experiment showed the insensitivity of N fixation in all the tested substrates to low N addition (50 kg N·ha−1·yr−1); however, medium and high N addition (100–150 kg N·ha−1·yr−1) stimulated the moss and foliar N fixation because of the increases in substrate C:N stoichiometry (which explained 30–34% of the variation in N fixation,P < 0.001). Overall, our results emphasize the importance of substrate (particularly mosses and foliage) stoichiometry as a driver of asymbiotic N fixation and sustained N richness in lowland tropical forests.
Perturbations in serum chloride homeostasis in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: insights from TOPCAT
Authors: Grodin Justin L. , Testani Jeffrey M. , Pandey Ambarish , Sambandam Kamalanathan , Drazner Mark H. , Fang James C. , Tang W.H. Wilson
Published: June 2018

Aims

Prior cohorts demonstrating the importance of serum chloride levels in heart failure either excluded or had partial representation of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We aimed to examine the relationship between serum chloride concentration and outcomes in HFpEF.

Methods and results

We included participants from the Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist Trial (TOPCAT) who met the following criteria: met inclusion by the natriuretic peptide stratum, had recorded serum chloride levels, and were from the Americas (n = 942). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models tested the association of serum chloride with clinical outcomes, and mixed effects modelling tested the association of spironolactone or loop diuretic on serial serum chloride levels. The median serum chloride level was 102 [25th–75th percentile 100–105 mmol/L (range 84–114 mmol/L)]. After multivariable adjustment, every standard deviation decrease in serum chloride (4.05 mmol/L) was associated with ∼50% increased risk for cardiovascular death [hazard ratio (HR) 1.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11–2.06, P = 0.008] and ∼30% increased risk for all‐cause death (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.02–1.62, P = 0.04), but not with the primary composite endpoint or heart failure hospitalization (P > 0.3 for both). There were no significant interactions between spironolactone use and the serum chloride–risk relationship (P > 0.1) for each endpoint. Spironolactone was not (P = 0.33) but loop diuretic use was associated with lower serial serum chloride levels (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Lower serum chloride was independently associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and all‐cause death in HFpEF. Loop diuretic use, but not spironolactone, lead to a decrease in serum chloride levels over time.
Photophysical Properties of Luminescent Zinc(II)‒Pyridinyloxadiazole Complexes and their Glassy Self‐Assembly Networks
Authors: Panunzi Barbara , Concilio Simona , Diana Rosita , Shikler Rafi , Nabha Shiran , Piotto Stefano , Sessa Lucia , Tuzi Angela , Caruso Ugo
Published: June 2018

Three multifunctional ligands containing 2,5‐disubstituted‐oxadiazole units including an ortho/meta/para‐substituted pyridine moiety have been synthesized. The reactions of the ligands with zinc(II) acetate in pyridine gave crystalline complexes with the general formula [Zn(Li)2py2]. On the other hand, zinc‐assisted self‐assembly of the ligands in the absence of pyridine led to stable glassy networks with the general stoichiometry [Zn(Li)2]. The direct involvement of the pyridine moiety in the coordination of the metal was observed in all cases. The spectroscopic behaviour of the complexes was explored and compared. In particular, medium‐to‐high photoluminescent quantum yields were observed for thin films produced from both crystalline and glass samples. Molecular and periodic calculations were performed by using DFT to rationalize the photophysical behaviour.
Perfluorinated 1,2,3‐ and 1,2,4‐Triazolium Ionic Liquids
Authors: Alpers Torben , Muesmann Thomas W. T. , Temme Oliver , Christoffers Jens
Published: June 2018

Dialkyl triazolium triflimides with perfluorinated side chains were prepared as hydrophobic ionic liquids (ILs) for surface impregnation. The key feature of the new materials are relatively short perfluorohexyl residues (nC6F13 = RF) as the fluorinated part of the cations, making the target compounds beneficial alternatives to established products because of their enhanced degradability and therefore lower bioaccumulativity. As heterocyclic scaffold, either 1,2,3‐triazole or 1,2,4‐triazole were chosen. As the two alkyl moieties, either two RFCH2CH2 groups or one RFCH2CH2 and one Et residue were applied. The diethyl congeners were also prepared. Fluorinated starting materials were RFCH2CH2OTf as alkylating reagent or RFCH2CH2N3 as 1,3‐dipole for a copper catalyzed cycloaddition (CuAAC) with trimethylsilyl acetylene. After sequential CuAAC and alkylation reactions, the triflimide salts were finally obtained from the intermediate iodides or triflates with the aid of an ion exchange resin. Out of 14 triazolium salts prepared, four compounds have finally been identified as hydrophobic ILs (contact angles between 85° and 100° with mp. < 100 °C), being promising materials for surface impregnation: the 1,2,3‐triazolium triflate and triflimide with two fluorinated alkyl residues, and the 1,2,4‐triazolium triflimides (two regioisomers) with one fluorinated alkyl residues and one ethyl group.
TiO2 Nanoparticles Modified MoO3 Nanobelts as Electrode Materials with Superior Performances for Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Q. , Zhou C. , Yan X. H. , Wang J. J. , Wang D. F. , Yuan X. X. , Cheng X. N.
Published: June 2018

MoO3, with advantages of abundance, non‐toxicity and multiple oxidation states, has recently been attracted increasing attention in supercapacitors field as a potential electrode material. Here, a novel composite TiO2/MoO3 had been synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectra, XPS, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The electrochemical results showed the composite has enhanced electrochemical properties with the maximum specific capacitance of 141 F g−1 at the current density of 1 A g−1, which is higher than pure MoO3 at the same test condition. The improved electrochemical properties could be attributed to the synergetic effect and the formation of Ti−O−Mo bonds between TiO2 nanoparticles and MoO3 nanobelts and the increment of specific surface area. This work would not only promote the study about MoO3‐based electrode materials in supercapacitors, but also extended to other transition metal oxides with similar structures.
Understanding the Anthropocene through the lens of landfill microbiomes
Authors: Achmon Yigal , Achmon Moshe , Dowdy F Ryan , Spiegel Orr , Claypool Joshua T , Toniato Juliano , Simmons Christopher W
Published: June 2018

Rapid increases in human population and per‐capita waste production have resulted in accelerated growth in the size and number of landfills. We propose that microbiota within landfills can contribute to a better understanding of the Anthropocene thus far. Because landfills are characterized by conditions that are uncommon in natural, non‐anthropogenic environments, they present a novel, rapidly growing, and essentially unstudied ecological system. Anthropogenic impacts may lead to unique adaptations in resident microbial communities, resulting in novel assemblages, activities, and features that differ from those in natural environments. Modern tools like molecular and bioinformatic techniques allow scientists to characterize these communities in unprecedented detail. A nuanced understanding of the adaptations, such as novel degradation abilities, that arise from such unusual selection pressures could facilitate improvements in bioremediation. Furthermore, similarities between landfill formation and geological deposition processes suggest that landfills will be preserved in future geological records and, consequently, may be suitable for dating anthropogenic influences at the local scale. Studying landfill microbiomes could therefore help to define the Anthropocene and reveal its consequences.
The environmental cost of animal source foods
Authors: Hilborn Ray , Banobi Jeannette , Hall Stephen J , Pucylowski Teresa , Walsworth Timothy E
Published: June 2018

We reviewed 148 assessments of animal source food (ASF) production for livestock, aquaculture, and capture fisheries that measured four metrics of environmental impact (energy use, greenhouse‐gas emissions, release of nutrients, and acidifying compounds) and standardized these per unit of protein production. We also examined additional literature on freshwater demand, pesticide use, and antibiotic use. There are up to 100‐fold differences in impacts between specific products and, in some cases, for the same product, depending on the production method being used. The lowest impact production methods were small pelagic fisheries and mollusk aquaculture, whereas the highest impact production methods were beef production and catfish aquaculture. Many production methods have not been evaluated, limiting our analysis to the range of studies that have been published. Regulatory restrictions on ASF production methods, as well as consumer guidance, should consider the relative environmental impact of these systems, since, currently, there appears to be little relationship between regulatory restrictions and impact in most developed countries.
Control of PEM Fuel Cell Systems Using Interval Type‐2 Fuzzy PID Approach
Authors: Aliasghary M.
Published: June 2018

In this study, an interval type‐2 fuzzy proportional–integral–derivative (IT2FPID) controller is designed to be used in the air flow regulation of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) systems. The proposed controller is able to handle the effect of external disturbances and fix the oxygen excess ratio at an appropriate set‐point. Three crisp singletons for the output and two interval type‐2 membership functions for the inputs are defined for the suggested controller. Two conventional controllers including type‐1 fuzzy PID (T1FPID) and ordinary proportional–integral–derivative (PID) are also investigated to evaluate the performance and efficiency of this technique. The results of various simulations indicate that the IT2FPID controller has a better performance and transient response compared to the other approaches.
The personal cost of dementia care in Japan: A comparative analysis of residence types
Authors: Nakabe Takayo , Sasaki Noriko , Uematsu Hironori , Kunisawa Susumu , Wimo Anders , Imanaka Yuichi
Published: June 2018

Objective

We aimed to quantify the personal economic burden of dementia care in Japan according to residence type.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted on 3841 caregivers of people with dementia. An opportunity cost approach was used to calculate informal care costs. All costs and the observed/expected (OE) ratio of costs were adjusted using patient sex, age, and care‐needs levels, and compared among the residence types.

Results

The mean daily informal care time was 8.2 hours, and the mean monthly informal care costs for community‐dwelling people with dementia were US$1559. The OE ratio for informal care costs in community‐dwelling patients was higher than in institutionalized patients.

Conclusion

The inclusion of informal care costs reduced the differences in total personal costs among the residence types. The economic burden of informal care should be considered when quantifying dementia care costs.
Application of porcine gastrointestinal organoid units as a potential in vitro tool for drug discovery and development
Authors: Olayanju Adedamola , Jones Lauren , Greco Karin , Goldring Christopher E. , Ansari Tahera
Published: June 2018

The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is a crucial part of the body for growth and development and its dysregulation can lead to several diseases with detrimental effects. Most of these diseases lack effective treatment, occurring as a result of inappropriate models to develop safe and potent therapies. Organoids are three‐dimensional self‐organizing and self‐renewing structures that are composed of a cluster of different cells in vitro that resemble their organ of origin in architecture and function. Over recent years, organoids have been increasingly used to study developmental biology, disease progression, i.e., cancer, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine and other biological processes. Owing to their complex nature and ability to retain the morphological and molecular patterns of their tissue‐of‐origin, they have great potential as alternative tools/models for drug screening, development and biomarker discovery. Using a species with similar genetic homology to humans as a source of organoids, such as the porcine model may offer huge translational relevance. This review focuses on the culture and establishment of porcine organoid units and their potential use and application as in vitro models to further the science of drug discovery, by overcoming current limitations of established two‐ and three‐dimensional models. It also highlights the translational application of using porcine organoids as a model of different disease contexts.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress is involved in the T‐2 toxin‐induced apoptosis in goat endometrium epithelial cells
Authors: Yi Yanglei , Zhao Fan , Wang Nan , Liu Huan , Yu Lijun , Wang Aihua , Jin Yaping
Published: June 2018

T‐2 toxin is one of the trichothecene mycotoxins commonly found in animal feed and agricultural products. Ingestion of T‐2 toxin by animals results in acute and chronic diseases, as well as reproductive failure. This study aimed at investigating the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in T‐2 toxin‐induced apoptosis in goat endometrium epithelial cells. Flow cytometry and cell viability assay showed that T‐2 toxin significantly induced cell apoptosis, which was accompanied with increased expression of cleaved‐caspase‐3. The altered expression of two ER stress markers CHOP and GRP78 proved that ER stress is involved in the T‐2 toxin‐induced apoptosis. 4‐phenylbutyrate pretreatment was applied to relieve the ER stress, pretreated endometrium epithelial cells showed a decreased apoptosis level and the expression pattern of CHOP and GRP78 was reversed. The key genes involved in signaling pathways of ER stress‐associated apoptosis were examined, which showed that the IRE1‐JNK and PERK‐ATF4‐CHOP signal transduction pathways are both activated. Moreover, the level of cytokines including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10 and tumor necrosis factor‐α decreased in the T‐2 toxin‐treated cells. While the 4‐phenylbutyrate pretreatment elevates the cytokine levels after T‐2 treatment. Collectively, these results suggest that ER stress contributes to the T‐2 toxin‐induced apoptosis and decreased cytokine levels in goat endometrium epithelial cells. This study offers new insight into the molecular mechanisms of T‐2 toxicity on reproductive cells.
Zinc pthalocyanine‐loaded chitosan/mPEG‐PLA nanoparticles‐mediated photodynamic therapy for the treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Keyal Uma , Luo Qiong , Bhatta Anil K. , Luan Hansen , Zhang Ping , Wu Qianqian , Zhang Haiyan , Liu Pei , Zhang Linglin , Wang Peiru , Yang Degang , Zhang Guolong , Yao Jing , Wang Xiuli , Shi Lei
Published: June 2018

Zinc pthalocyanine (ZnPc) is a second‐generation photodynamic therapy (PDT) sensitizer with sufficient PDT activity for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). ZnPc is hydrophobic and insoluble in water, which creates hurdles in systemic administration and hence restricts its use in clinic. Here we have loaded ZnPc on chitosan/methoxy polyethylene glycol‐polylactic acid (CPP) nanoparticles to form Z‐CPP to enhance PDT efficacy. In vitro and in vivo studies were performed to see dark toxicity of the compounds ZnPc, CPP and Z‐CPP. Then PDT was done and its growth inhibitory effect on SCC cells was evaluated. In addition, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and apoptosis of cancer cells following PDT were studied. The results showed that the tested compounds exhibit no dark toxicity and the effect of PDT was significantly better with Z‐CPP when compared to free ZnPc (P < .05). Photoactivation of Z‐CPP led to a dose‐dependent growth inhibition of cancer cells of >50% at 1 μM to >80% at 10 μM concentration. Also Z‐CPP‐treated cells had highest number of apoptotic cells and produced more ROS compared to free ZnPc‐treated cells (P < .05). Hence, this study suggests that Z‐CPP is a suitable pharmaceutical compound to increase PDT efficacy.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐539 promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation and osteoclast apoptosis through the AXNA‐dependent Wnt signaling pathway in osteoporotic rats
Authors: Zhu Xiong‐Bai , Lin Wen‐Jun , Lv Chen , Wang Lu , Huang Zheng‐Xiang , Yang Sheng‐Wu , Chen Xin
Published: June 2018

This study aims to explore the effects of miR‐539 on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation and osteoclast apoptosis in a rat model of osteoporosis, and its mechanism involving the regulation of the AXIN1‐mediated wingless‐Int (Wnt) signaling pathway. A rat model of osteoporosis was successfully established by ovariectomy. With osteoblasts and osteoclasts of rats not receiving ovariectomy in the sham group as control, those of osteoporotic rats were treated with miR‐539 inhibitor, miR‐539 mimic, and AXIN1 shRNA. The expression of miR‐53, AXIN1, the Wnt pathway related‐genes, apoptosis related‐genes, and osteogenic markers were measured by RT‐qPCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in osteoblast and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity in osteoclasts were determined after cell transfection. Osteoblast and osteoclast viability was assayed by CCK‐8 assay. Cell cycle and apoptosis of osteoblasts and osteoclasts were detected by flow cytometry. Lastly, alizarin red S staining was used to detect mineralized nodules of osteoblasts. Firstly, we determined that miR‐539 was down‐regulated in osteoblast and osteoclast of osteoporotic rats and AXIN1 was negatively regulated by miR‐539. Additionally, overexpression of miR‐539 increased the expressions of β‐catenin, LEF1, c‐myc, cyclin D1, RUNX2, BGP, BMP‐2 in osteoblast as well as β‐catenin, RhoA, caspase‐3, and Bcl‐2 in osteoclasts. Finally, overexpression of miR‐539 elevated ALP activity, proliferation, and mineralized nodules in osteoblast and osteoclast apoptosis, with reduced TRAP activity in osteoclasts. Our results demonstrate that miR‐539 promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation as well as osteoclast apoptosis through the AXIN1‐dependent Wnt signaling pathway in osteoporotic rats.
Structural analysis of missense mutations in galactokinase 1 (GALK1) leading to galactosemia type‐2
Authors: P Sneha , Ebrahimi Elaheh Ahmad , Ghazala Sara Ahmed , D Thirumal Kumar , R Siva , Priya Doss C George , Zayed Hatem
Published: June 2018

Galactosemia type 2 is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by the deficiency of galactokinase (GALK) enzyme due to missense mutations in GALK1 gene, which is associated with various manifestations such as hyper galactosemia and formation of cataracts. GALK enzyme catalyzes the adenosine triphosphate (ATP)–dependent phosphorylation of α‐d‐galactose to galactose‐1‐phosphate. We searched 4 different literature databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, PubMed Central, and Science Direct) and 3 gene‐variant databases (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man, Human Gene Mutation Database, and UniProt) to collect all the reported missense mutations associated with GALK deficiency. Our search strategy yielded 32 missense mutations. We used several computational tools (pathogenicity and stability, biophysical characterization, and physiochemical analyses) to prioritize the most significant mutations for further analyses. On the basis of the pathogenicity and stability predictions, 3 mutations (P28T, A198V, and L139P) were chosen to be tested further for physicochemical characterization, molecular docking, and simulation analyses. Molecular docking analysis revealed a decrease in interaction between the protein and ATP in all the 3 mutations, and molecular dynamic simulations of 50 ns showed a loss of stability and compactness in the mutant proteins. As the next step, comparative physicochemical changes of the native and the mutant proteins were carried out using essential dynamics. Overall, P28T and A198V were predicted to alter the structure and function of GALK protein when compared to the mutant L139P. This study demonstrates the power of computational analysis in variant classification and interpretation and provides a platform for developing targeted therapeutics.
Social networks of unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness
Authors: Groton Danielle B. , Radey Melissa
Published: June 2018

This study explored strengths, barriers, and role of social networks among unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness. Twenty women from two local shelters participated in semistructured, face‐to‐face interviews. A constant comparative analysis revealed 4 themes: support as a coping mechanism, loss of support as a path to homelessness, support as a drain, and support as a way to give. Almost universally, women experienced considerable barriers to housing, including physical health, mental health, substance abuse, or domestic violence. Despite precarious circumstances, women showed optimism, interest, and readiness to move forward and exit homelessness. Most women utilized social networks to cope with their difficult situations. Their networks, however, were limited such that abusive relationships and substance abuse commonly contributed to homelessness and delayed entrance into secure housing. Together with identifying unaccompanied women as a subgroup in the homeless population, targeted interventions can help women capitalize on healthy relationships to promote housing security and well‐being.
Long noncoding ribonucleic acid NKILA induces the endoplasmic reticulum stress/autophagy pathway and inhibits the nuclear factor‐k‐gene binding pathway in rats after intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Jia Jiaoying , Zhang Mingming , Li Qi , Zhou Qian , Jiang Yugang
Published: June 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as an important class of molecules that have been associated with brain function and neurological disease, but the expression profiles of lncRNAs after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) remain to be elucidated. In this study, we determined the expression pattern of nuclear factor‐k‐gene binding (NF‐kB) interacting lncRNA (NKILA) after ICH and examined its respective effects on the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)/autophagy pathway, hippocampal neuron loss, and the NF‐kB pathway after type VII collagenase‐induced ICH in rats. The regulatory mechanisms of NKILA were investigated by an intraperitoneal injection of small interfering (siRNA) against NKILA into rats after ICH. NKILA inhibition mediated by siRNA against NKILA was shown to significantly reduce ERS and autophagy, activate the NF‐kB pathway, decrease neurological deficits, brain edema, and injury, and induce blood–brain barrier breakdown, further leading to hippocampal neuron loss and the production of inflammation cytokines. Taken together, the demonstration that NKILA induces the ERS/autophagy pathway and inhibits the NF‐kB pathway after ICH supports the concept that NKILA functions as a novel target that is required for the attenuation of brain injuries after ICH.
The method matters: The effect of handling time on cortisol level and blood parameters in wild cats
Authors: Pavlova Ekaterina V. , Alekseeva Galina S. , Erofeeva Mariya N. , Vasilieva Nina A. , Tchabovsky Andrey V. , Naidenko Sergey V.
Published: June 2018

Blood analysis has recently become a popular tool to assess the welfare of the wild cats. However, the estimates of blood parameters may depend on the sampling method. We have tested (1) if the sampling procedure influences blood parameters and (2) what parameters are the most efficient in assessing the physiological status in wild cat species. We assessed the effect of handling time on red blood cells (RBC) and white blood cells (WBC) counts, the ratio of neutrophils to lymphocytes (N/L ratio), and serum cortisol level within 1 hr after the capture of the animal in six far‐east wild cats (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilura). Also, we analyzed literature data in 17 cat species to assess the effect of place of study, type of immobilization, and handling time on WBC count and N/L ratio. Serum cortisol level varied significantly with the handling time. RBC and WBC counts were strongly affected by the handling time. N/L ratio was very robust and did not depend on the handling time. However, the analysis of literature data has shown that the prolonged handling time (over 1 hr) and the type of immobilization significantly influence the N/L ratio, whereas the WBC count does not depend on any of considered factors. We conclude that while most blood parameters of cats are affected by routine handling time, the N/L ratio does not vary if the samples are collected within 1 hr after the capture of the animal. All other tested parameters should be treated with caution.
Glycomic alterations in HIV infection: one galactose or two?
Authors: Hurley Harry J , Dewald Hannah K , Fitzgerald-Bocarsly Patricia
Published: June 2018

Discussion on the role of the IgG glycome in immunity and the contribution of HIV to antibody glycosylation.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Evaluation of the Effects of Low‐Level Laser Therapy With Ultrasound Strain Imaging
Authors: Tezcan Sehnaz , Ulu Ozturk Funda , Uslu Nihal , Nalbant Merve , Umit Yemisci Oya
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of low‐level laser therapy on median nerve stiffness by using strain elastography in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

This study included 37 wrists of 34 patients with mild or moderate CTS between January 2016 and August 2016. The control group comprised 17 patients (18 wrists) with CTS who were treated with wrist splinting for 3 weeks. The low‐level laser therapy group included 17 patients (19 wrists) with CTS who were treated with a combination of splinting and low‐level laser therapy, which was applied 5 times per week for 3 weeks. Clinical assessment scales, including the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) and Functional Status Score (FSS), were obtained from our database. The cross‐sectional area by ultrasound and strain ratio by elastography were studied. The differences in the strain ratio, cross‐sectional area, SSS, and FSS between pretreatment and posttreatment periods in the groups were compared by the paired‐sample t test. The correlations between changes in the strain ratio and the cross‐sectional area, SSS, and FSS were analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

The control group included 13 women and 4 men, and the therapy group included 14 women and 3 men. In the therapy group, the mean values of the strain ratio, cross‐sectional area, SSS, and FSS decreased significantly after laser therapy (P < .001) in contrast to the control group. No significant correlation was observed between the decreasing degree of the strain ratio and the cross‐sectional area, SSS, and FSS after laser therapy.

Conclusions

The strain ratio and cross‐sectional area of the median nerve decrease after low‐level laser therapy. These changes may be related to the therapeutic effects of low‐level laser therapy, such as nerve regeneration and improvement of the vascular supply.