bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of abdominal shape on living liver donor outcomes in mini‐incision right hepatic lobectomy: Comparison among 3 techniques
Authors: Safwan Mohamed , Nagai Shunji , Collins Kelly , Rizzari Michael , Yoshida Atsushi , Abouljoud Marwan
Published: December 2017

Although minimally invasive techniques for living donor hepatectomy have been developed, the surgical feasibility and limitations remain to be elucidated. The risks and outcomes involved need to be better understood prior to their widespread application. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility of minimally invasive donor hepatectomy by reviewing our experience. A total of 99 living donor liver transplantations performed between 2000 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. All 99 living liver donors underwent right hepatectomy. The breakdown of the techniques is as follows: the standard technique in 33 patients; the laparoscopic‐assisted minilaparotomy technique (hybrid technique group) in 19 patients; and the upper midline incision technique without laparoscopic assistance (minilaparotomy group) in 47 patients. An association between donor operative outcomes and body habitus, such as body mass index (BMI), abdominal truncal depth (approximated by celiac axis [CA] depth ratio), and umbilical circumference (UC) were assessed. Perioperative factors were compared between the standard technique and the minimally invasive technique. The minilaparotomy group had significantly shorter operative time (P = 0.046) and hospital stay (P = 0.005) than the standard technique group. Postoperative complication rates were similar between the 3 groups (P = 0.16). In the minilaparotomy group, greater BMI (P = 0.02), CA depth ratio (P = 0.04), and UC (P = 0.004) were found to be risk factors for postoperative complications. In the minilaparotomy group, CA depth ratio > 0.41, UC > 90 cm, and BMI > 30 kg/m2 were significantly associated with longer operative time and hospital stay. In the standard technique group, none of the body size factors were associated with postoperative outcomes. In conclusion, the minilaparotomy technique is safe and feasible, though technical difficulties may be encountered when performed on donors with larger body habitus. Ongoing efforts are required to ensure living donor safety. Liver Transplantation 24 516–527 2018 AASLD.
Electrically Detected Magnetic Resonance Observations of Spin‐Dependent Space‐Charge‐Limited Conduction in Regioregular Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene)
Authors: Fukuda Kunito , Asakawa Naoki
Published: December 2017

Pauli spin blockade associated with bipolaron formation from positively charged mobile and trapped polarons in a regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (RR‐P3HT) Schottky barrier diode is detected using electrically detected magnetic resonance (EDMR) spectroscopy. This is the first experimental observation of bipolaron formation from positively charged mobile and trapped polarons in the space‐charge‐limited conduction regime in a polymer semiconductor. It is inferred that carrier traps exist in the disordered regions at the crystalline grain boundaries in RR‐P3HT. Furthermore, EDMR measurements under various constant‐current conditions suggest that shallow and deep traps have distinguishable g‐values.
Supersimple structures with a dense independent subset
Authors: Berenstein Alexander , Carmona Juan Felipe , Vassiliev Evgueni
Published: December 2017

Based on the work done in [][] in the o‐minimal and geometric settings, we study expansions of models of a supersimple theory with a new predicate distiguishing a set of forking‐independent elements that is dense inside a partial type , which we call H‐structures. We show that any two such expansions have the same theory and that under some technical conditions, the saturated models of this common theory are again H‐structures. We prove that under these assumptions the expansion is supersimple and characterize forking and canonical bases of types in the expansion. We also analyze the effect these expansions have on one‐basedness and CM‐triviality. In the one‐based case, when T has SU‐rank and the SU‐rank is continuous, we take to be the type of elements of SU‐rank and we describe a natural “geometry of generics modulo H” associated with such expansions and show it is modular.
Synthesis of Polyaniline Nanowires and Nanorods in the Presence of NaF under an Electric Field and Their Characterization
Authors: Wang Ruijuan , Wu Xiaodong , Bei Fengli
Published: December 2017

In this work, polyaniline nanowires and nanorods are synthesized through adjusting and controlling the concentration of D‐camphor‐10‐sulfonic acid (CSA) and NaF salt under the application of an electric field. The morphologies and structures of as‐synthesized polyaniline (PANI) are characterized through various methods, including transmission electron microscopy, UV–vis, Fouier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The results demonstrate that the introduction of an electric field can improve the crystallinity of PANI, and PANI nanowires/nanorods are fabricated through changing the amount of NaF or CSA in the presence of the electric field. Besides, the 1H NMR experiments are executed to investigate the structures of final products.
Near‐Field Electrospinning Patterning Polycaprolactone and Polycaprolactone/Collagen Interconnected Fiber Membrane
Authors: Middleton Rox , Li Xia , Shepherd Jenny , Li Zhaoying , Wang Wenyu , Best Serena M. , Cameron Ruth E. , Huang Yan Yan Shery
Published: December 2017

Solution‐based near‐field electrospinning is employed to construct polymeric network membranes, made of orderly arranged and interconnected fibers. The narrow tip‐to‐nozzle separation of the direct‐writing process leads to solvent enriched fibers being deposited on the substrate, despite the use of a low boiling point solvent. This results in fibers with low cross‐sectional aspect ratio (flattened appearance), but providing a unique opportunity to produce interconnected fiber junctions through in situ, localized solvent etching by subsequent fiber overlays. Orthogonal networks of polycaprolactone (PCL) fibres, or PCL/collagen composite fibres, are fabricated, and then characterized by microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. This study presents a direct approach to strengthen interfiber junctions, and further the feasibility to interweave and interconnect fibers of different properties, leading to networked membranes with potentially tailorable functions for tissue engineering applications and beyond.
Suppression of STAT3 NH2‐terminal domain chemosensitizes medulloblastoma cells by activation of protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 via de‐repression by microRNA‐21
Authors: Ray Sutapa , Coulter Don W. , Gray Shawn D. , Sughroue Jason A. , Roychoudhury Shrabasti , McIntyre Erin M. , Chaturvedi Nagendra K. , Bhakat Kishor K. , Joshi Shantaram S. , McGuire Timothy R. , Sharp John G.
Published: December 2017

Medulloblastoma (MB) is a malignant pediatric brain tumor with poor prognosis. Signal transducers and activators of transcription‐3 (STAT3) is constitutively activated in MB where it functions as an oncoprotein, mediating cancer progression and metastasis. Here, we have delineated the functional role of activated STAT3 in MB, by using a cell permeable STAT3‐NH2 terminal domain inhibitor (S3‐NTDi) that specifically perturbs the structure/function of STAT3. We have implemented several biochemical experiments using human MB tumor microarray (TMA) and pediatric MB cell lines, derived from high‐risk SHH‐TP53‐mutated and MYC‐amplified Non‐WNT/SHH tumors. Treatment of MB cells with S3‐NTDi leads to growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. S3‐NTDi downregulated expression of STAT3 target genes, delayed migration of MB cells, attenuated epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) marker expressions and reduced cancer stem‐cell associated protein expressions in MB‐spheres. To elucidate mechanisms, we showed that S3‐NTDi induce expression of pro‐apoptotic gene, C/EBP‐homologous protein (CHOP), and decrease association of STAT3 to the proximal promoter of CCND1 and BCL2. Of note, S3‐NTDi downregulated microRNA‐21, which in turn, de‐repressed Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3), a negative regulator of STAT3 signaling pathway. Furthermore, combination therapy with S3‐NTDi and cisplatin significantly decreased highly aggressive MYC‐amplified MB cell growth and induced apoptosis by downregulating STAT3 regulated proliferation and anti‐apoptotic gene expression. Together, our results revealed an important role of STAT3 in regulating MB pathogenesis. Disruption of this pathway with S3‐NTDi, therefore, may serves as a promising candidate for targeted MB therapy by enhancing chemosensitivity of MB cells and potentially improving outcomes in high‐risk patients.
Comparative analysis of the effect of antihypertensive drugs on the survival of perforator flaps in a rat model
Authors: Park Jin‐Woo , Mun Goo‐Hyun
Published: December 2017

Background

First‐line antihypertensive drugs include calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and diuretics. In this study, we compared the effects of antihypertensive drugs on the survival of perforator flaps in a rat model.

Materials and methods

Fifty normotensive rats were randomly divided into five groups, with 10 rats in each group. Four different antihypertensive drugs were given via oral gavage for 7 days: group I: 1.5 mg/kg amlodipine; group II: 15 mg/kg captopril; group III: 15 mg/kg losartan; group IV: 7 mg/kg dichlozid; and group V: saline. An 8 × 10‐cm‐sized extended dorsal island skin flap based on the unilateral deep circumflex iliac artery perforator was elevated and fixed in place. At postoperative day 7, evaluation of viable flap area, edema measurement, and histological analysis were conducted.

Results

No significant difference in systolic blood pressure was observed preoperatively between any of the groups. The mean flap survival area was 81.54 ± 6.71, 55.76 ± 21.01, 48.45 ± 13.72, 58.14 ± 16.96, and 67.99 ± 10.68% in groups I, II, III, IV, and V, respectively. It was significantly increased in group I (P = .007) and decreased in group III (P = .011) compared with the control group. The mean full‐thickness necrosis area was significantly increased in group III (P = .024) compared to the control group.

Conclusions

Angiotensin receptor blockers adversely affected the survival of perforator flaps, while calcium channel blockers increased it. These results suggest that the regimen of antihypertensive drugs may need to be carefully selected for patients undergoing perforator flap reconstruction.
Viability of differential inclusions with fractional derivative without singular kernel
Authors: Girejko Ewa
Published: December 2017

In the paper, we provide sufficient conditions assuring existence of viable solutions of differential inclusions with fractional derivative without singular kernel, namely, Caputo‐Fabrizio derivative of order α∈(0,1). A construction of an approximate solution is presented. A modified condition of tangency, according to specifity of the system with this new fractional derivative, is given.
The effects of superovulation and reproductive aging on the epigenome of the oocyte and embryo
Authors: Marshall Kira L. , Rivera Rocio Melissa
Published: December 2017

A societal preference of delaying maternal age at first childbirth has increased reliance on assisted reproductive technologies/therapies (ART) to conceive a child. Oocytes that have undergone physiologic aging (≥35 years for humans) are now commonly used for ART, yet evidence is building that suboptimal reproductive environments associated with aging negatively affect oocyte competence and embryo development—although the mechanisms underlying these relationship are not yet well understood. Epigenetic programming of the oocyte occurs during its growth within a follicle, so the ovarian stimulation protocols that administer exogenous hormones, as part of the first step for all ART procedures, may prevent the gamete from establishing an appropriate epigenetic state. Therefore, understanding how oocyte. Therefore, understanding how hormone stimulation and oocyte physiologic age independently and synergistically physiologic age independently and synergistically affect the epigenetic programming of these gametes, and how this may affect their developmental competence, are crucial to improved ART outcomes. Here, we review studies that measured the developmental outcomes affected by superovulation and aging, focusing on how the epigenome (i.e., global and imprinted DNA methylation, histone modifications, and epigenetic modifiers) of gametes and embryos acquired from females undergoing physiologic aging and exogenous ovarian stimulation is affected.
An eight‐channel sodium/proton coil for brain MRI at 3 T
Authors: Lakshmanan Karthik , Brown Ryan , Madelin Guillaume , Qian Yongxian , Boada Fernando , Wiggins Graham C.
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this work is to illustrate a new coil decoupling strategy and its application to a transmit/receive sodium/proton phased array for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the human brain. We implemented an array of eight triangular coils that encircled the head. The ensemble of coils was arranged to form a modified degenerate mode birdcage whose eight shared rungs were offset from the z‐axis at interleaved angles of ±30°. This key geometric modification resulted in triangular elements whose vertices were shared between next‐nearest neighbors, which provided a convenient location for counter‐wound decoupling inductors, whilst nearest‐neighbor decoupling was addressed with shared capacitors along the rungs. This decoupling strategy alleviated the strong interaction that is characteristic of array coils at low frequency (32.6 MHz in this case) and allowed the coil to operate efficiently in transceive mode. The sodium array provided a 1.6‐fold signal‐to‐noise ratio advantage over a dual‐nuclei birdcage coil in the center of the head and up to 2.3‐fold gain in the periphery. The array enabled sodium MRI of the brain with 5‐mm isotropic resolution in approximately 13 min, thus helping to overcome low sodium MR sensitivity and improving quantification in neurological studies. An eight‐channel proton array was integrated into the sodium array to enable anatomical imaging.
Dysbiosis Signatures of Gut Microbiota Along the Sequence from Healthy, Young Patients to Those with Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Gao Renyuan , Zhu Cuiling , Li Hao , Yin Mingming , Pan Cheng , Huang Linsheng , Kong Cheng , Wang Xingchun , Zhang Yi , Qu Shen , Qin Huanlong
Published: December 2017

Objective

To investigate the gut microbiota in healthy volunteers (HVs), patients with overweight (OW), and patients with obesity (OB), including those with acanthosis nigricans (AN) or without AN (N‐AN).

Methods

Microbial 16S rRNA genes were examined by using pyrosequencing technology and analyzed by using bioinformatics methods.

Results

Subjects in the OW and OB groups showed severe disturbances in glycemic control, lipid profile, and inflammatory markers (all P < 0.05); patients with AN had worse metabolic status (P < 0.001) and a lower diversity of microbiota (P < 0.05). The OB and HV groups showed totally different gut microbiota composition. In the OB group, beneficial microbiotas including Bifidobacterium (0.01% vs. 0.05%, false discovery rate [FDR] = 4.27*10−5), anti‐inflammatory Faecalibacterium (6.70% vs. 13.82%, FDR = 0.010), and butyrate‐producing Ruminococcaceae were significantly decreased, whereas Bacillus (0.58% vs. 0.04%, FDR = 0.013) and potential opportunistic pathogens such as Fusobacterium (1.44% vs. 0.11%, FDR < 0.01) and Escherichia‐Shigella (6.01% vs. 0.76%, FDR = 0.041) had outgrown dramatically. Function prediction revealed a significant increase in lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis proteins and bacterial invasion of epithelial cell–associated genes and a significant decrease in glucose and essential amino acid‐related genes.

Conclusions

Gut microbiotas and their functions were significantly changed in obesity. More prospective studies on association and causality between microbiota and obesity are imperative and might contribute to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of obesity.
Dual CCR2/5 Antagonist Attenuates Obesity‐Induced Insulin Resistance by Regulating Macrophage Recruitment and M1/M2 Status
Authors: Huh Ji Hye , Kim Hong Min , Lee Eun Soo , Kwon Mi Hye , Lee Bo Ra , Ko Hyun‐Jeong , Chung Choon Hee
Published: December 2017

Objective

Adipose tissue inflammation induced by macrophage infiltration through the C‐C motif chemokine receptor (CCR) 2 or CCR5 pathway has a pivotal role in obesity‐related disease and insulin resistance. Here, the effect of PF4178903, a dual CCR2/CCR5 antagonist, on obesity and insulin resistance was evaluated.

Methods

Forty male C57BL/6J mice were divided into four groups as follows: (1) regular diet (RD), (2) RD with PF4178903, (3) high‐fat diet (HFD), and (4) HFD with PF4178903. All mice were sacrificed 12 weeks after the beginning of the experiment. Biochemical analyses and adipose tissue examinations were performed.

Results

After treatment with PF4178903, both body weight and adipocyte size in white adipose tissue were decreased in HFD‐fed mice. Furthermore, PF4178903 treatment reduced adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) and lowered serum proinflammatory cytokines in HFD‐fed mice. PF4178903 treatment significantly improved HFD‐induced insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Fluorescence‐activated cell sorter analysis revealed that PF4178903 treatment reduced the CD8 + T cell fraction in white adipose tissue of HFD‐fed mice. PF4178903 treatment reduced M1‐polarized macrophages while inducing an M2‐dominant shift in macrophages within white adipose tissue in HFD‐fed mice.

Conclusions

Dual CCR2/CCR5 antagonism ameliorates insulin resistance and inflammation in obesity by regulating ATM recruitment and polarization in white adipose tissue.
Preparation and performance of novel temperature‐resistant thickening agent
Authors: Yan Siming , Tang Jun , Yan Shengdong , Wang Yongji , Han Jinjing , Shi Suqing
Published: December 2017

In this article, a novel kind of temperature‐resistant thickening agent (LK) was copolymerized with acrylamide, acrylic acid, sodium p‐styrenesulfonate, and dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride via free radical copolymerization. The polymerization conditions were optimized by the single‐variable method. Subsequently, the structure of the copolymer was characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance. Thermal gravimetric analysis demonstrates that the thickening agent LK has an excellent ability of temperature‐resistance and the degradation temperature of the copolymer is higher than 300°C. The 3‐dimensional network structure formed in the fracturing fluid was observed via experimental results of scanning electron microscopy. Several aspects of the properties of fracturing gel system, such as temperature and shear tolerance, salt resistance and viscoelasticity, and gel breaking and filter loss were evaluated. Results indicates that the fracturing gel system presents good comprehensive performances under high‐temperature condition.
Organic gels prepared from side‐chain liquid crystalline polymers without the spacer
Authors: Chen Lei , Yuan Yongjie , Li Jindi , Zhang Hailiang
Published: December 2017

A series of side‐chain liquid crystal polymers (SCLCPs) without the spacer, named poly[ω‐(4′‐n‐alkyl oxybiphenyl‐4‐oxy)methacrylate (PMBiCm, m = 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 18), have been synthesized. The novel polymer organogels were prepared by introducing PMBiCm into common organic solvents. Solubility and gel properties of polymer organogelators differ widely according to the nature of the solvents. In aromatic solvents, PMBiCm completely dissolved in solvent due to good compatibility between biphenyl mesogen group and aromatic solvents. Poly[ω‐(4′‐n‐alkyl oxybiphenyl‐4‐oxy)methacrylate were still insoluble in polar solvents such as acetone, ethanol, DMF, ethylene glycol, and n‐butanol. This behavior resulted from mismatch of solubility parameter between PMBiCm and solvent. Considering the factors of solvent, we have systematically studied 3 organic solvents with different polarities (butyl acetate, n‐butyl amine, and n‐heptane). It is found that the length of the alkoxy tail chain of the SCLCPs has significant influence on gelability and gel thermal stability. In further studies discussed by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, the results revealed that the π‐π stacking interaction of the biphenyl mesogens might be the key factor for guiding the self‐assembly processes and the polymer gel formation. This work is useful to comprehending physical mechanism of polymer organogels. Meanwhile, those expand SCLCPs to a wide range of applications.
Physicochemical and antibacterial properties of polyurethane coatings modified by ZnO
Authors: Król Bożena , Pielichowska Kinga , Sochacka‐Piętal Marta , Król Piotr
Published: December 2017

The synthesis of polyurethane nanocomposite coatings containing 1% to 5% suitably dispersed ZnO by 1‐stage polyaddition process in the bulk using 4,4′‐methylenebis(cyclohexyl isocyanate), poly(ε‐caprolactone)diol, and 1,4‐butanediol was performed. Infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra confirmed the structure of obtained polyurethanes. Scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X‐ray analyzer methods showed randomly distributed ZnO in a polyurethane matrix. The differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction patterns were used for the microstructural assessment of the obtained materials. Antimicrobial properties of ZnO and the effect of this modifier on the hydrophobicity of the coatings were demonstrated. The obtained coatings were characterized in terms of the mechanical properties and changes during incubation in a Baxter saline solution.
Preparation and characterization of carbopol‐silver nanocomposites for efficient antimicrobial applications
Authors: Haddadine Nabila , Chalal Samia , Abouzeid Khaled , Bouslah Naima , Benaboura Ahmed , El‐Shall M. Samy
Published: December 2017

Carbopol‐silver nanocomposites, CP‐Ag‐NCs, were prepared by a chemical reducing method by using formaldehyde as a reducing agent (nanocomposite F), and formaldehyde in the presence of an alkaline medium resulting from the addition of Na2CO3 (nanocomposite FC), or NaOH (nanocomposite FO) to enhance the rate of reduction of the silver ions. The UV‐visible spectra showed the appearance of bands centered around 275, 286, and 274 nm for the nanocomposites F, FC, and FO, respectively, attributed to small silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) with an average size less than 10 nm. Other bands centered around 405 and 470 nm for the nanocomposites F and FC, respectively, were attributed to large Ag‐NPs with an average size greater than 50 nm. The absence of large Ag‐NPs in the nanocomposites FO makes them as the materials of choice for the preparation of selective ultrasmall Ag‐NPs with an average size less than 3 nm. Furthermore, photoluminescence was observed upon blue excitation of the ultrasmall colloidal Ag‐NPs. Scanning electron microscopy images showed a good dispersion of the metallic Ag‐NPs in the polymer matrix. Moreover, X‐ray diffraction patterns showed peaks corresponding to the face‐centered‐cubic of the Ag‐NPs. The nature of the interaction between carbopol and Ag‐NPs was further studied by attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the mechanism of reduction of the silver ions was proposed. The antimicrobial activities of the CP‐Ag‐NCs were examined against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans microorganisms. The results demonstrate that the CP‐Ag‐NCs can provide new applications of these nanocomposites as efficient sensors and antimicrobial materials.
A combination of POSS and polyphosphazene for reducing fire hazards of epoxy resin
Authors: Shi Yongqian , Yu Bin , Zheng Yuying , Guo Jin , Chen Bohui , Pan Zemin , Hu Yuan
Published: December 2017

Extensive application of epoxy resins (EPs) is highly limited by their intrinsic flammability. Combining EPs with nanoparticles and phosphorus‐nitrogen flame retardants is an effective approach to overcome the drawback. In this work, simultaneous incorporation of octa‐aminophenyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (OapPOSS) and polyphosphazene into EP was reported for the first time. Significantly, reduced peak of heat release rate and UL‐94 V‐0 rating were achieved by tuning suitable ratios of polyphosphazene and OapPOSS for EP composites. During combustion, polyphosphazene promoted char formation and released nonflammable gases such as CO2, NH3, and N2 to dilute oxygen concentration and cool pyrolysis zone. Moreover, numerous phosphorus‐containing species acting as free radical scavengers were generated during degradation. Silicon dioxide evolving from OapPOSS protected char residues from thermal degradation. This study provides a novel method to fabricate high‐performance flame‐retardant EP composites, which have potential applications in the field of electrics and electronics.
Mechanical performance of thermoplastic composites using bituminous coal as filler: Study of a potentially sustainable end‐use application for Appalachian coal
Authors: Phillips Lakin N. , Kappagantula Keerti S. , Trembly Jason P.
Published: December 2017

This study evaluated the utilization of bituminous coal from the Appalachian basin as filler material in high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites. Three coal types including Pittsburgh No. 8, Kittanning, and Upper Freeport were evaluated. The impact of coal (0–60 wt%) and coupling agent (0–3 wt%) content on flexure and tensile properties of the coal/HDPE composites was investigated. In addition, coal surface chemistry was analyzed using Boehm analyses and compared to pine wood flour. Composite flexure strength was maximum at 30 wt% coal, while tensile strength decreased with coal content. Addition of coupling agent to the composite had little to negative impact on mechanical properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:591–599, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
An updated analysis of author affiliation across four school psychology journals: Is practitioner research increasing?
Authors: Aspiranti Kathleen B. , McCleary Daniel F. , Ratliff Stephen R.
Published: December 2017

This study analyzed articles published in four school psychology journals (Journal of School Psychology, Psychology in the Schools, School Psychology Quarterly, and School Psychology Review) between the years 2009 and 2015. Articles were classified based on whether they were narrative or empirical, and affiliation of each author was classified as either practitioner or university. Results were compared to those of a previous study that similarly classified articles from 2000 to 2008. Across the years, the total number of authors increased; however, the proportion of practitioners compared to university affiliates decreased from 9% to 6%. In particular, a regression analysis revealed a large increase in the number of university secondary authors. Discussion focuses on examining the impact that practitioners’ involvement in research has on implementing evidence‐based practices within the schools.
γ‐Secretase Inhibition Induces Muscle Hypertrophy in a Notch‐Independent Mechanism
Authors: Rosa de Andrade Ivone , Corrêa Stephany , Fontenele Marcio , de Oliveira Teixeira John Douglas , Abdelhay Eliana , Costa Manoel Luis , Mermelstein Claudia
Published: December 2017

A wide variety of cellular processes and signaling events are regulated by the proteolytic enzyme γ‐secretase. Notch‐1 is one of the substrates of γ‐secretase and its role in the regulation of muscle differentiation has been well described. Importantly, besides Notch‐1, a number of proteins have been identified to undergo proteolysis by γ‐secretase. To date, the specific role of γ‐secretase during embryonic skeletal muscle differentiation has not been studied. Therefore, we address this question through the analysis of in vitro grown chick myogenic cells during the formation of multinucleated myotubes. The γ‐secretase inhibitor DAPT (N‐N[‐(3,5‐Difluorophenacetyl‐l‐alanyl)]‐S‐328 phenylglycine‐t‐butyl‐ester) induces muscle hypertrophy. Knockdown of Notch‐1 using siRNA specific to chick shows no significant effect in myotube size, suggesting that γ‐secretase‐dependent effects on muscle hypertrophy in chick myogenic cells are Notch‐1‐independent. We also investigate the effects of γ‐secretase inhibition in the whole proteomic profile of chick myogenic cells. We identified 276 differentially expressed proteins from Label‐free proteomic approach. Data overview of interaction network obtained from STRING show that after γ‐secretase inhibition cells exhibited imbalance in protein metabolism, cytoskeleton/adhesion, and Sonic Hedgehog signaling. The collection of these results provides new insights into the role of γ‐secretase in skeletal muscle hypertrophy.
Parental cancer: Characteristics of users of child‐centred counselling versus individual psycho‐oncological treatment
Authors: Inhestern Laura , Geertz Wiebke , Schulz‐Kindermann Frank , Bergelt Corinna
Published: December 2017

Objective

The aims of this study were to investigate the characteristics of users of a specific child‐centred counselling service (COSIP) and to compare those to parents using an individual psycho‐oncological treatment (PO).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis on data of users of COSIP and users of PO. Database was the routine assessment (demographic and disease‐related characteristics, GAD‐7, PHQ‐9, EORTC QLQ‐C30, and current concerns) of an outpatient psycho‐oncological clinic with additional child‐centred counselling. A total of 151 patients and 49 partners with children ≤21 years were included. We conducted descriptive analyses and group comparisons.

Results

Fifty‐nine patients and partners used COSIP only or additionally to individual psycho‐oncological service. PO users were more depressed and were more anxious than COSIP users. Patients using PO reported worse emotional functioning than patients using COSIP. Partners using PO reported worse global quality of life and more symptoms of fatigue than partners using COSIP. With regard to current concerns, patients using COSIP reported child‐related issues more frequently than PO users. PO users reported symptoms of anxiety, depressive symptoms, or exhaustion more frequently than COSIP users.

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate that patients and partners self‐referring to PO or COSIP are highly burdened. COSIP users experience different psychosocial burden than PO users. As poor mental state of parents is a risk factor for the development of mental problems in children, parents using only PO may benefit from additional child‐centred support. Accordingly, the need for COSIP should be assessed continuously during PO of patients with children ≤21 years.
Eggshell‐Assisted Preparation of Mixed Nanoparticles Simultaneously Encapsulated in Carbon Microcubes for Reversible Lithium Storage
Authors: Meng Xinghua , Ng Simon , Ding Yi , Deng Da
Published: December 2017

Nanoparticle‐based electrodes often suffer from poor electrical properties due to high interparticle resistance, as well as low Coulombic efficiency attributed to large surface area induced parasitic reactions. In order to address this issue, a strategy of encapsulating two kinds of nanoparticles of both metal oxide and metallic nanoparticles is attempted, simultaneously, in microscale carbon cubic shells for highly reversible lithium storage. The unique structure is synthesized by simultaneous reactions of (1) decomposition of crystalline Co2(OH)3Cl microparticle precursor, synthesized in unique eggshell reactor systems, into nanoparticles, (2) partial reduction of CoO into metallic Co by eggshell membrane, (3) carbon coating by chemical vapor deposition facilitated by presence of catalytic Co with carbon released from the eggshell membrane, and (4) microscale carbon shell formed using the Co2(OH)3Cl particles as microtemplates. The carbon shells can prevent the encapsulated mixed nanoparticles from direct contact with electrolyte and reduce undesirable parasitic reactions, and accommodate volumetric variation during cycling. The introduction of metallic Co nanoparticles can reduce interparticle resistance. When evaluated for lithium storage, the unique structures of CoO–Co@C demonstrate superior electrochemical performances in terms of electrode stability and rate performance, as compared to that of pure CoO.
Mechanism of Cellular Uptake to Optimized AuNP Beacon for Tracing mRNA Changes in Living Cells
Authors: Li Siwen , Tian Caiping , Liu Yuxi , Wang Zhaohui , Ma Yi , Han Zhihao , Du Jiaying , Zhang Jinnan , Gu Yueqing
Published: December 2017

Molecular beacon is a promising tool for mRNA detection in living cells. But the low detecting efficiency and narrow application range limited its development. In this study, we synthesized a novel gold nanoparticle (AuNP) beacon by optimizing the sequence amount and modified polyethylene glycol (PEG) and cell‐penetrating peptide (CPP) on the gold core. Then, the mechanism of beacon cell uptake was investigated. Lastly, we used the AuNP beacon to study the Akt‐mTOR‐HIF‐1 signaling pathway and the function and mechanism of miR‐7 in breast tumor cells. The results showed that the optimization obviously amplified the fluorescence signal of the AuNP beacon. The mechanism study described the process of AuNP beacon cellular uptake and confirmed amplifying the amount of beacon cellular uptake could obviously enhance the fluorescence signal. Compared to results, the accuracy of the gold nanoparticle beacon is similar to the results of real‐time‐Q‐PCR (RT‐PCR) and western blotting but that the operation is much simpler. Furthermore, in this study, we found that our Akt gold nanoparticle beacon had a similar function to that of the Akt small interfering RNA (siRNA). In summary, the gold nanoparticle beacon may be a promising method for the study of signaling pathways.
Shape‐ and Trap‐Controlled Nanocrystals for Giant‐Performance Improvement of All‐Inorganic Perovskite Photodetectors
Authors: Pang Liuqing , Yao Yao , Wang Qian , Zhang Xisheng , Jin Zhiwen , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: December 2017

In the last few years, all‐inorganic perovskite CsPbBr3 nanocrystals (NCs) have attracted tremendous attention for its high carrier mobility, long carrier diffusion length, excellent visible light absorption, and more importantly superior air stability. In fact, photodetectors (PDs) are designed and fabricated using the CsPbBr3 NCs with very high performance. Herein, by optimizing the NC shape, size, and surface passivation, the CsPbBr3 PDs are developed with an even higher performance. It is found that the PDs based on CsPbBr3 nanoribbons show the best photoresponse among all common NC structures synthesized. Moreover, it is found that 6,6‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid ethyl ester can be used to passivate defects on the CsPbBr3 nanoribbon surface and shows the charge transfer. As a result, the device displays superior photoresponsivity (R = 18.4 A W−1), excellent signal‐to‐noise ratio, as high as 104, and a very sharp rise/decay time (8.7/3.5 ms). The method demonstrated may offer an attractive strategy to improve sensitivity for all‐inorganic perovskite PDs in general.
Lock and chop: A novel method for the generation of a PICK1 PDZ domain and piperidine‐based inhibitor co‐crystal structure
Authors: Marcotte Douglas J. , Hus Jean‐Christophe , Banos Charles C. , Wildes Craig , Arduini Robert , Bergeron Chris , Hession Catherine A. , Baker Darren P. , Lin Edward , Guckian Kevin M. , Dunah Anthone W. , Silvian Laura F.
Published: December 2017

The membrane protein interacting with kinase C1 (PICK1) plays a trafficking role in the internalization of neuron receptors such as the amino‐3‐hydroxyl‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole‐propionate (AMPA) receptor. Reduction of surface AMPA type receptors on neurons reduces synaptic communication leading to cognitive impairment in progressive neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease. The internalization of AMPA receptors is mediated by the PDZ domain of PICK1 which binds to the GluA2 subunit of AMPA receptors and targets the receptor for internalization through endocytosis, reducing synaptic communication. We planned to block the PICK1‐GluA2 protein–protein interaction with a small molecule inhibitor to stabilize surface AMPA receptors as a therapeutic possibility for neurodegenerative diseases. Using a fluorescence polarization assay, we identified compound BIO124 as a modest inhibitor of the PICK1‐GluA2 interaction. We further tried to improve the binding affinity of BIO124 using structure‐aided drug design but were unsuccessful in producing a co‐crystal structure using previously reported crystallography methods for PICK1. Here, we present a novel method through which we generated a co‐crystal structure of the PDZ domain of PICK1 bound to BIO124.
Assessing the current and future biological control potential of Trichogramma ostriniae on its hosts Ostrinia furnacalis and Ostrinia nubilalis
Authors: Wu Li‐Hsin , Hill Matthew P , Thomson Linda J , Hoffmann Ary A
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Understanding interactions between biocontrol agents and their pest hosts under climate change should assist implementation of biocontrol strategies, by identifying appropriate biocontrol agents for release or determining the optimal timing of releases. Species distribution models (SDMs) were applied to evaluate the distributions of Trichogramma ostriniae and its native host, Ostrinia furnacalis, in southeastern Asia, and a non‐native host, Ostrinia nubilalis, in a novel range, North America, using MAXENT and CLIMEX modelling approaches.

RESULTS

The models led to similar predictions about the expected distribution of the two species in Asia, and emphasized likely mismatches between host and natural enemy. Trichogramma ostriniae was predicted to occur in the summer corn region of China, with distribution limits linked to its sensitivity to cold, seasonality of radiation and precipitation. The modelled Ostrinia nubilalis distribution overlapped with the main corn production areas of the northeastern USA and Canada; temporary/seasonal suitable habitat was also predicted across the southeastern USA. Climate change scenarios are predicted to favour T. ostriniae over its hosts in northeastern China and North America.

CONCLUSION

The modelling approaches used here proved useful for assessing environmental factors linked to an egg parasitoid and its lepidopteran hosts and identifying areas potentially suitable for inundative releases. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Quantitative Multi‐Scale, Multi‐Physics Quantum Transport Modeling of GaN‐Based Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Geng Junzhe , Sarangapani Prasad , Wang Kuang‐Chung , Nelson Erik , Browne Ben , Wordelman Carl , Charles James , Chu Yuanchen , Kubis Tillmann , Klimeck Gerhard
Published: December 2017

The performance of nitride‐based light emitting diodes is determined by carrier transport through multi‐quantum‐well structures. These structures divide the device into spatial regions of high carrier density, such as n‐GaN/p‐GaN contacts and InGaN quantum wells, separated by barriers with low carrier density. Wells and barriers are coupled to each other via tunneling and thermionic emission. Understanding of the quantum mechanics‐dominated carrier flow is critical to the design and optimization of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). In this work a multi‐scale quantum transport model, which treats high densities regions as local charge reservoirs, where each reservoir serves as carrier injector/receptor to the next/previous reservoir is presented. Each region is coupled to its neighbors through coherent quantum transport. The non‐equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) formalism is used to compute the dynamics (states) and the kinetics (filling of states) of the entire device. Electrons are represented in multi‐band tight‐binding Hamiltonians. The I–V characteristics produced from this model agree quantitatively with experimental data. Carrier temperatures are found to be about 60 K above room temperature and the quantum well closest to the p‐side emits the most light, in agreement with experiments. Auger recombination is identified to be a much more significant contributor to the LED efficiency droop than carrier leakage.
Spin‐Driven Emergent Antiferromagnetism and Metal–Insulator Transition in Nanoscale p‐Si
Authors: Lou Paul C. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: December 2017

The entanglement of the charge, spin and orbital degrees of freedom can give rise to emergent behavior especially in thin films, surfaces, and interfaces. Often, materials that exhibit those properties require large spin–orbit coupling. We hypothesize that the emergent behavior can also occur due to spin, electron, and phonon interactions in widely studied simple materials such as Si. That is, large intrinsic spin–orbit coupling is not an essential requirement for emergent behavior. The central hypothesis is that when one of the specimen dimensions is of the same order (or smaller) as the spin diffusion length, then non‐equilibrium spin accumulation due to spin injection or spin‐Hall effect (SHE) will lead to emergent phase transformations in the non‐ferromagnetic semiconductors. In this experimental work, we report spin‐mediated emergent antiferromagnetism and metal–insulator transition in a Pd (1 nm)/Ni81Fe19 (25 nm)/MgO (1 nm)/p‐Si (≈400 nm) thin film specimen. The spin‐Hall effect in p‐Si, observed through the Rashba spin–orbit coupling mediated spin‐Hall magnetoresistance behavior, is proposed to cause the spin accumulation and resulting emergent behavior. The phase transition is discovered from the diverging behavior in the longitudinal third‐harmonic voltage, which is related to the thermal conductivity and heat capacity.
A renewable intelligent colorimetric indicator based on polyaniline for detecting freshness of tilapia
Authors: Wang Wenqi , Li Min , Li Houbin , Liu Xinghai , Guo Ting , Zhang Guoquan , Xiong Yabo
Published: December 2017

A renewable indicator based on polyaniline (PANI) was developed and was able to indicate the freshness of tilapia. Hydrochloric acid was used in preparation of doped PANI, and experiments on colour variations of PANI films during spoilage of tilapia were conducted under accelerate storage condition (30°C) and chilled condition (4°C). When stored under 30°C, significant colour change of PANI film from green (L* = 70, a* = −37, b* = 24) to peacock blue (L* = 37, a* = −12, b* = −24) was shown when the amount of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) (19.4 mg/100 g) was about to reach the critical value (20 mg/100 g). Similarly, when the TVB‐N reached 20.3 mg/100 g in chilled condition, the colour of PANI film also changed from green (L* = 67, a* = −39, b* = 22) to peacock blue (L* = 35, a* = −13, b* = −20). Importantly, renewed PANI film washed with hydrochloric acid also showed obvious colour variation from green to peacock blue when TVB‐N was around the critical value, and it could be recycled for at least 3 times. A proposed design of indicator based on PANI was given to help the consumers identify the freshness of tilapia and ensure that they get safe products.
M‐ATTRIVAR: An attribute‐variable chart to monitor multivariate process means
Authors: Aparisi Francisco , Lee Ho Linda
Published: December 2017

In this paper, an attribute‐variable control chart, namely, M‐ATTRIVAR, is introduced to monitor possible shifts in a vector of means. The monitoring starts using an attribute chart (classifying the units as approved or not using a gauge) and continues in such a way until a warning signal is given, shifting the control to a variable chart for the next sampling. If the variable chart does not confirm the warning, the monitoring returns to an attribute control. Otherwise, the monitoring remains with the variable chart. Whenever any of the charts (attribute or variable) signals an alarm, the control scheme triggers an alarm. The main advantage of this new proposal is the possibility of judging the state of the process only by the attribute chart most of the time (normally more economical and faster). The performance of the M‐ATTRIVAR control chart is compared versus the main competitor (T2control chart) in terms of performance detection (out‐of‐control average run length) but also economically (average sampling cost). The M‐ATTRIVAR is always cheaper thanT2, and in many scenarios, it detects quicker process shifts than theT2control chart. A numerical example illustrates a practical situation.
Ritz variational method for the high‐lying nonautoionizing doubly excited 1,3Fe states of two‐electron atoms
Authors: Dutta Sayantan , Sil Amar N. , Saha Jayanta K. , Mukherjee Tapan K.
Published: December 2017

Energy eigenvalues of nonautoionizing doubly excited
states originating from 2pnf (
) configuration of two‐electron atoms
have been calculated by expanding the basis set in explicitly correlated Hylleraas coordinates under the framework of Ritz variational method. A detailed discussion on the evaluation of correlated basis integrals is given. The energy eigenvalues of a number of these doubly excited states are being reported for the first time especially for the high lying states. The effective quantum numbers (
) for the states mentioned above have been calculated by using the theory of quantum defect.
Metabolism of bisphenol S in mice after oral administration
Authors: Song Yuanyuan , Xie Peisi , Cai Zongwei
Published: December 2017

Rationale

As an important substitute of bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS) shows comparable estrogenic effects. BPS is now widely used in consumer products with widespread human exposure. In order to evaluate the health risk of BPS, it is essential to develop a rapid method for the determination of BPS and its metabolites as well as its biotransformation capacity in vivo.

Methods

Two major BPS phase II metabolites, BPS glucuronide (BPS‐G) and BPS sulfate (BPS‐S), were synthesized and used as standards for the development of a ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI‐MS/MS) method. Phase II metabolism of BPS in imprinting control region (ICR) female mice after oral administration with different dosages (10, 100, 1000 μg/kg body weight) was investigated.

Results

Urinary elimination was the main excretion route for BPS, with the total recovery ranging from 52.8% to 78.1%. In urine, BPS‐G was identified as the predominant metabolite, and the maximum concentrations of BPS‐G and BPS‐S were obtained at 6 h after the oral administration upon the adjustment by creatinine. BPS was the major compound existed in feces. Only trace amounts of BPS and its metabolites were detected in digestive and excretory related tissues (<1%).

Conclusions

The distribution and metabolic pathway of BPS in mice were assessed. More than 50% of BPS was excreted through phase II metabolism. Due to the biological inactivity of BPS‐G and BPS‐S, rapid metabolism of BPS to BPS‐G and BPS‐S may result in reduced toxicity of BPS in vivo.
High degrees in random recursive trees
Authors: Addario‐Berry Louigi , Eslava Laura
Published: December 2017

For , let Tn be a random recursive tree (RRT) on the vertex set . Let be the degree of vertex v in Tn, that is, the number of children of v in Tn. Devroye and Lu showed that the maximum degree Δn
of Tn satisfies almost surely; Goh and Schmutz showed distributional convergence of along suitable subsequences. In this work we show how a version of Kingman's coalescent can be used to access much finer properties of the degree distribution in Tn. For any , let . Also, let be a Poisson point process on with rate function . We show that, up to lattice effects, the vectors converge weakly in distribution to . We also prove asymptotic normality of when slowly, and obtain precise asymptotics for when and is not too large. Our results recover and extends the previous distributional convergence results on maximal and near‐maximal degrees in RRT.