bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain structure and intragenic DNA methylation are correlated, and predict executive dysfunction in fragile X premutation females
Authors: Shelton A L , Cornish K M , Kolbe S , Clough M , Slater H R , Li X , Kraan C M , Bui Q M , Godler D E , Fielding J
Published: December 2016

DNA methylation of the Fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) exon 1/intron 1 boundary has been associated with executive dysfunction in female carriers of a FMR1 premutation (PM: 55–199 CGG repeats), whereas neuroanatomical changes have been associated with executive dysfunction in PM males. To our knowledge, this study for the first time examined the inter-relationships between executive function, neuroanatomical structure and molecular measures (DNA methylation and FMR1 mRNA levels in blood) in PM and control (<44 CGG repeats) females. In the PM group, FMR1 intron 1 methylation was positively associated with executive function and cortical thickness in middle and superior frontal gyri, and left inferior parietal gyrus. By contrast, in the control group, FMR1 intron 1 methylation was negatively associated with cortical thickness of the left middle frontal gyrus and superior frontal gyri. No significant associations were revealed for either group between FMR1 mRNA and neuroanatomical structure or executive function. In the PM group, the lack of any significant association between FMR1 mRNA levels and phenotypic measures found in this study suggests that either FMR1 expression is not well conserved between tissues, or that FMR1 intron 1 methylation is linked to neuroanatomical and cognitive phenotype in PM females via a different mechanism.
Development of a high throughput (HT) Raman spectroscopy method for rapid screening of liquid blood plasma from prostate cancer patients
Authors: Medipally Dinesh K. R. , Maguire Adrian , Bryant Jane , Armstrong John , Dunne Mary , Finn Marie , Lyng Fiona M. , Meade Aidan D.
Published: December 2016

High throughput Raman spectroscopy method for rapid and accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer using liquid plasma samples.
Synthesis and characterization of layered metal sulfates containing MII3(μ3-OH/F)2(M = Mg, Co) diamond chains
Authors: Marri Subba R. , Mahana Sudipta , Topwal Dinesh , Behera J. N.
Published: December 2016

Two-dimensional cobalt(ii) and magnesium(ii) sulfates with diamond chains comprising M3(μ3-F/OH)2 units have been synthesized and characterized.
ML and ML2 complex formation between Ca(ii) and d-glucose derivatives in aqueous solutions
Authors: Kutus Bence , Ozsvár Dániel , Varga Norbert , Pálinkó István , Sipos Pál
Published: December 2016

Besides the well-known ML species, Ca(ii) forms ML2 complexes with carbohydrates having at least one carboxylate group and conformational flexibility.
Dy(iii)-Carboxylate chain containing quasi-D5h sites exhibits enhanced energy barrier for magnetization reversal
Authors: Zhou Guo-Jun , Ding You-Song , Zheng Yan-Zhen
Published: December 2016

A slight modification of the solvent induced a change in the local symmetry of one-third of the metal sites for a 1D Dy(iii) complex from quasi-D5h to C2v and resulted in a significant change in Ueff from 403.6 to about 7.5 K.
Determination of total Hg isotopic composition at ultra-trace levels by on line cold vapor generation and dual gold-amalgamation coupled to MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Bérail S. , Cavalheiro J. , Tessier E. , Barre J. P. G. , Pedrero Z. , Donard O. F. X. , Amouroux D.
Published: December 2016

An online pre-concentration method was developed to directly determine Hg isotopic compositions at the ng L−1 level in liquid samples.
Layer-structured nanohybrid MoS2@rGO on 3D nickel foam for high performance energy storage applications
Authors: Bulakhe Ravindra N. , Nguyen Van Hoa , Shim Jae-Jin
Published: December 2016

MoS2@reduced graphene oxide on 3D nickel foam was synthesized using an inexpensive room-temperature two-step method composed of the layer-by-layer method and solution-based successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction.
Hierarchical transfer of chiral information from the molecular to the mesoscopic scale by Langmuir–Blodgett deposition of tetrasteroid-porphyrins
Authors: Lettieri Raffaella , Cardová Lenka , Gatto Emanuela , Mazzuca Claudia , Monti Donato , Palleschi Antonio , Placidi Ernesto , Drašar Pavel , Venanzi Mariano
Published: December 2016

Transfer of chiral information from the molecular level to the mesoscale has been obtained by hierarchical self-assembly of tetrasteroid-porphyrins.
Revitalizing digenite Cu1.8S nanoparticles with the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect by manganese incorporation
Authors: Ge Shaqi , Wong Ka Wai , Ng Ka Ming
Published: December 2016

The localized surface plasmon resonance of copper sulfide Cu2−xS nanoparticles was controlled by incorporation of manganese into digenite Cu1.8S nanoparticles.
Improvement of heat transfer by promoting dropwise condensation using electrospun polytetrafluoroethylene thin films
Authors: Tsuchiya Hirotaka , Manabe Kengo , Gaudelet Thomas , Moriya Takeo , Suwabe Ken , Tenjimbayashi Mizuki , Kyong Kyu-Hong , Gillot Fredric , Shiratori Seimei
Published: December 2016

Homogeneous superhydrophobic PTFE thin films showed stable dropwise condensation and much higher heat transfer. They contribute to energy-efficient transfer.
Facile synthesis of thietanes via ring expansion of thiiranes
Authors: Dong Jun , Xu Jiaxi
Published: December 2016

Thietanes are pharmaceutically important cores of some biological compounds and intermediates of organic synthesis.
Tracking the formation of supramolecular G-quadruplexes via self-assembly enhanced emission
Authors: Silva-Brenes Diana , Delgado Loruhama , Rivera José M.
Published: December 2016

The fluorescence intensity of 8-aryl-2′-deoxyguanosine derivatives enables monitoring the formation of supramolecular G-quadruplexes, opening the door to sensors and probes.
Correction: Bioinspired M-13 bacteriophage-based photonic nose for differential cell recognition
Authors: Moon Jong-Sik , Kim Won-Geun , Shin Dong-Myeong , Lee So-Young , Kim Chuntae , Lee Yujin , Han Jiye , Kim Kyujung , Yoo So Young , Oh Jin-Woo
Published: December 2016

Correction for ‘Bioinspired M-13 bacteriophage-based photonic nose for differential cell recognition’ by Jong-Sik Moon et al., Chem. Sci., 2017, DOI: 10.1039/c6sc02021f.
Carbon-coated core–shell Li2S@C nanocomposites as high performance cathode materials for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Chen Chunguang , Li Dongjiang , Gao Lu , Harks Peter Paul R. M. L. , Eichel Rüdiger-A. , Notten Peter H. L.
Published: December 2016

A novel facile and cost-effective approach is proposed based on plasma sparking and chemical sulfurization to synthesize core–shell Li2S@C nanocomposites as high performance cathode materials for Li–S batteries.
Hydrophobic superparamagnetic FePt nanoparticles in hydrophilic poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) microgels: a new multifunctional hybrid system
Authors: Wiemer K. , Dörmbach K. , Slabu I. , Agrawal G. , Schrader F. , Caumanns T. , Bourone S. D. M. , Mayer J. , Steitz J. , Simon U. , Pich A.
Published: December 2016

We report the synthesis of a new multifunctional colloidal hybrid system consisting of thermoresponsive amphiphilic biocompatible poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) microgels loaded with hydrophobic superparamagnetic FePt nanoparticles (NPs).
Cationic acrylate oligomers comprising amino acid mimic moieties demonstrate improved antibacterial killing efficiency
Authors: Grace James L. , Elliott Alysha G. , Huang Johnny X. , Schneider Elena K. , Truong Nghia P. , Cooper Matthew A. , Li Jian , Davis Thomas P. , Quinn John F. , Velkov Tony , Whittaker Michael R.
Published: December 2016

A new class of oligomeric cationic polymers with lipophilic tails were developed as antibacterial lipopeptide mimics, and revealed structurally dependent bacterial killing.
Fluorescence turn-on detection of uric acid by a water-stable metal–organic nanotube with high selectivity and sensitivity
Authors: Xin Xuelian , Zhang Minghui , Zhao Jianwei , Han Chengyou , Liu Xiuping , Xiao Zhenyu , Zhang Liangliang , Xu Ben , Guo Wenyue , Wang Rongming , Sun Daofeng
Published: December 2016

A strategy for fluorescence turn-on detection of uric acid byCD-MONT-2with high selectivity and sensitivity, through host–guest interactions.
False Belief Performance of Children Adopted Internationally
Authors: Hwa-Froelich Deborah A. , Matsuo Hisako , Jacobs Kristal
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore relationships among adoption, individual, and family variables on false belief performance of children adopted internationally (CAI).

Method

Using a quasiexperimental design, thirty-five 4-year-old children adopted from Asian and Eastern European countries before age 2 years were compared with a U.S. group of 33 nonadopted 4-year-old children on a standardized English-language measure, 3 false belief tasks, and a go/no-go inhibition measure.

Results

The adopted group differed significantly from the U.S. nonadopted group in expressive language and false belief performance. For the adopted group, inhibition measures were significantly correlated with core language scores. Core language scores and number of older siblings predicted false belief performance.

Conclusions

Similar to children who are not adopted, language competence and living with older siblings positively influenced social understanding in CAI. Because CAI experience interrupted language acquisition and live with fewer older siblings, they are at risk of having weaker language competence and social understanding in their adopted language. When working with CAI, practitioners should assess social communication, language competence, and inhibition skills. They should assist adoptive families in providing socially mentored opportunities for their children to observe and interact with older children.
Self‐adjusting sensing circuit without speed penalty for reliable STT‐MRAM
Authors: Ryu J.‐W. , Kwon K.‐W.
Published: December 2016

A self‐adjusting sensing circuit spin‐torque transfer magnetic random access memory (STT‐MRAM) is proposed. STT‐MRAM is considered to be the most promising candidate among the new emerging memories. However, read performance has emerged as a new bottleneck, because of its low tunnelling magneto‐resistance ratio (TMR) and low read current. The proposed self‐adjusting sensing circuit shows an improved sensing margin, overcoming the weaknesses of the STT‐MRAM. The proposed circuit using Verilog‐A model, a 65 nm complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor process also evaluated, and Monte Carlo analysis. The results of analysis show that the proposed circuit ensures a certain sensing margin, which is more than 200 mV in TMR 150% and about 50 mV in TMR 100%.
Compact low‐pass filters with deep and ultra‐wide stopband using tri‐ and quad‐mode resonators
Authors: Li Qun , Zhang Yonghong , Li Daotong , Xu Kaida
Published: December 2016

On the basis open stub‐loaded tri‐ and quad‐mode resonators, two compact microstrip low‐pass filters (LPFs) with deep and ultra‐wide stopband are presented. Modal characteristics of the tri‐ and quad‐mode resonators are analysed by even–odd‐mode method. Multimode resonator can be modelled as multiple LC resonant circuits and the lumped‐element equivalent circuit models of the proposed LPFs are presented. The tri‐ and quad‐mode resonators have strong slow‐wave and bandstop effects, which can achieve ultra‐wide and deep stopband and size reduction in the design of LPFs. For the proposed low‐pass filter using tri‐mode resonators, the 3 dB cutoff frequency is 2.5 GHz and the stopband with 40 dB suppression is from 4.5 to 17.7 GHz. The low‐pass filter based on quad‐mode resonators has a 3 dB cutoff frequency of 2.2 GHz and the stopband with 30 dB suppression is from 4.1 to 18 GHz.
What do postdocs need to succeed? A survey of current standing and future directions for Australian researchers
Authors: Hardy Margaret C. , Carter Adrian , Bowden Nikola
Published: December 2016

When discussing the postdoctoral period in a researcher’s life, a lack of career progression often boils down to “is it you, or is it me?” Is it a reduction in the quality of candidates, or the fact that there are now too many candidates for a rapidly shrinking pool of jobs? Australia provides an ideal case study, as a large and decentralized country with a government mandate to build the STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine) workforce. The goal of the present study was 1) to provide a baseline for postdoctoral experiences and career aspirations in Australia, and 2) to identify gaps in postdoctoral training. When undertaking a capacity building programme it is important to know where efforts should be focused. To better understand the demographic and career progression of Australia’s current cohort of postdoctoral researchers, a national survey was undertaken from 2014–2015. More than 280 postdoctoral researchers from government, industry and academic institutions responded. Our results indicate that although postdoctoral researchers work more than the legal maximum of a 38-hour a week (on average) and have a long-term plan to stay in research, there is significant concern over the long-term viability of research careers due to job insecurity and a shortage of funding.
Evaluation of the quality of science, technology and innovation advice available to lawmakers in Nigeria
Authors: Sanni Maruf , Oluwatope Omolayo , Adeyeye Adedamola , Egbetokun Abiodun
Published: December 2016

Access to quality science, technology and innovation (STI) information by lawmakers, as one of the key determinants of the effectiveness of policies in sub-Saharan Africa, has generated much debate. The main objective of this article therefore is to examine the sources of, and access to, STI information available to lawmakers in Nigeria. We also investigate factors associated with the use of STI information from experts and other sources in the policymaking process in Nigeria. Data were collected from lawmakers in both the state and national assemblies across Nigeria. Those selected from the states are those with an active S&T structure, such as a fully fledged Ministry dedicated to S&T. The sample was drawn from legislators in S&T committees and other cognate ministries. Our findings reveal that most lawmakers do not use evidence-based STI information on a regular basis. We also note that the use of expert opinion is one of the main sources of STI information, while academic journals and public opinions are some of the least utilized sources. Some of the major factors that affect the use of information from experts are the law makers’ level of education, number of years spent in the committee and duration of period as members of a committee. We recommend regular capacity-building programmes for legislators and their scientific advisers and personal assistants. This article is published as part of a collection on scientific advice to governments.
Alternative stable states and the sustainability of forests, grasslands, and agriculture
Authors: Henderson Kirsten A. , Bauch Chris T. , Anand Madhur
Published: December 2016

Endangered forest–grassland mosaics interspersed with expanding agriculture and silviculture occur across many parts of the world, including the southern Brazilian highlands. This natural mosaic ecosystem is thought to reflect alternative stable states driven by threshold responses of recruitment to fire and moisture regimes. The role of adaptive human behavior in such systems remains understudied, despite its pervasiveness and the fact that such ecosystems can exhibit complex dynamics. We develop a nonlinear mathematical model of coupled human–environment dynamics in mosaic systems and social processes regarding conservation and economic land valuation. Our objective is to better understand how the coupled dynamics respond to changes in ecological and social conditions. The model is parameterized with southern Brazilian data on mosaic ecology, land-use profits, and questionnaire results concerning landowner preferences and conservation values. We find that the mosaic presently resides at a crucial juncture where relatively small changes in social conditions can generate a wide variety of possible outcomes, including complete loss of mosaics; large-amplitude, long-term oscillations between land states that preclude ecosystem stability; and conservation of the mosaic even to the exclusion of agriculture/silviculture. In general, increasing the time horizon used for conservation decision making is more likely to maintain mosaic stability. In contrast, increasing the inherent conservation value of either forests or grasslands is more likely to induce large oscillations—especially for forests—due to feedback from rarity-based conservation decisions. Given the potential for complex dynamics, empirically grounded nonlinear dynamical models should play a larger role in policy formulation for human–environment mosaic ecosystems.
Pathway swapping: Toward modular engineering of essential cellular processes
Authors: Kuijpers Niels G. A. , Solis-Escalante Daniel , Luttik Marijke A. H. , Bisschops Markus M. M. , Boonekamp Francine J. , van den Broek Marcel , Pronk Jack T. , Daran Jean-Marc , Daran-Lapujade Pascale
Published: December 2016

Significance

Replacement of petrochemistry by bio-based processes requires microbes equipped with novel-to-nature capabilities. The efficiency of such engineered microbes strongly depends on their native metabolic networks, which, forged by eons of evolution, are complex and encoded by mosaic microbial genomes. Absence of a modular organization of genomes tremendously restricts genetic accessibility and presents a major hurdle for fundamental understanding and rational engineering of central metabolism. Using as a paradigm the nearly ubiquitous glycolytic pathway, we introduce a radical approach, enabling the “transplantation” of essential metabolic routes in the model and industrial yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. This achievement demonstrates that a modular design of synthetic genomes offers unprecedented possibilities for fast, combinatorial exploration, and optimization of the biological function of essential cellular processes.
Palmitoylation regulates glutamate receptor distributions in postsynaptic densities through control of PSD95 conformation and orientation
Authors: Jeyifous Okunola , Lin Eric I. , Chen Xiaobing , Antinone Sarah E. , Mastro Ryan , Drisdel Renaldo , Reese Thomas S. , Green William N.
Published: December 2016

Significance

Synaptic AMPA-type and NMDA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs and NMDARs) have different dynamic characteristics critical for synaptic plasticity. We find that the posttranslational modification, palmitoylation, changes the conformation of postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95), a major synaptic scaffold, promoting interactions with AMPARs and NMDARs. In synapses, we measured the conformation and orientation of palmitoylated PSD95 relative to the scaffold, synapse-associated protein 97 (SAP97), and found that changing PSD95 palmitoylation altered PSD95 and AMPAR levels, but not NMDAR levels. We conclude that palmitoylation regulates PSD95 conformation and retention of AMPAR and NMDARs at synapses. Differences in PSD95 palmitoylation appear to occur when AMPARs and NMDARs are in separate synaptic domains, likely contributing to differences in AMPAR and NMDAR dynamics in synapses.
Lipid metabolic changes in an early divergent fungus govern the establishment of a mutualistic symbiosis with endobacteria
Authors: Lastovetsky Olga A. , Gaspar Maria L. , Mondo Stephen J. , LaButti Kurt M. , Sandor Laura , Grigoriev Igor V. , Henry Susan A. , Pawlowska Teresa E.
Published: December 2016

Significance

Mutually beneficial interactions of fungi with bacteria are increasingly recognized as ubiquitous and economically important. However, little is known about their establishment and maintenance. Utilizing the association between the fungus
Rhizopus microsporus
and its endosymbiont
Burkholderia
as a model, we provide first insights into fungal molecular mechanisms governing symbiosis establishment with bacteria. We show that specific changes in fungal lipid metabolism, mediated by diacylgycerol kinase enzymes, are required to maintain a mutualistic outcome of interaction with bacteria, a pattern consistent with the addiction model of mutualism evolution. We also offer insights into genetics and biochemistry of lipid metabolism in an understudied group of oleaginous fungi, which are a promising source of oils for biodiesel production.
The IDH2 R172K mutation associated with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma produces 2HG in T cells and impacts lymphoid development
Authors: Lemonnier François , Cairns Rob A. , Inoue Satoshi , Li Wanda Y. , Dupuy Aurélie , Broutin Sophie , Martin Nadine , Fataccioli Virginie , Pelletier Romain , Wakeham Andrew , Snow Bryan E. , de Leval Laurence , Pujals Anais , Haioun Corinne , Paci Angelo , Tobin Erica R. , Narayanaswamy Rohini , Yen Katherine , Jin Shengfang , Gaulard Philippe , Mak Tak W.
Published: December 2016

Significance

Mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (
IDH
)
1
and
IDH2
contribute to malignant progression by producing the oncometabolite 2HG. In myeloid disorders, mutations at three positions in these genes are commonly observed, but in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL),
IDH
mutations are restricted to IDH2 arginine (R) 172. The complex microenvironment of AITL, where malignant T cells comprise a minority of the tumor, has made it difficult to evaluate the role of this mutation. Here, we provide clinical data showing that mutant IDH2 expression is restricted to malignant T cells and that 2HG may be a useful biomarker in AITL. In addition, using conditional knock-in mouse models, we find that only mutations at IDH2 R172 produce significant quantities of 2HG in lymphoid cells and alter lymphoid development.
Enhanced inflammatory cell profiles in schistosomiasis‐induced pulmonary vascular remodeling
Authors: Ali Zahara , Kosanovic Djuro , Kolosionek Ewa , Schermuly Ralph T. , Graham Brian B. , Mathie Alistair , Butrous Ghazwan
Published: December 2016

Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is a neglected parasitic disease caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma which affects over 240 million people worldwide. It is characterized by the formation of inflammatory granulomas around deposited parasite eggs. Recent studies have revealed that immune and inflammatory responses play a crucial role in pathogenesis of schistosomiasis. The aim of this paper is to systematically evaluate the number and distribution of inflammatory cells in S. mansoni‐infected mice at different doses and time points. Immunohistochemistry was performed on lung and liver tissue sections from Schistosoma‐infected mice and uninfected healthy controls. Positively stained cells in whole‐lung/liver tissue sections, surrounding the eggs, and in the different compartments of the tissues, were counted. We found a significant increase in the number of mast cells (toluidine blue+), CD3+ cells, CD14+ cells, CD68+ cells, and CD15+ cells in Schistosoma‐infected tissues compared with untreated healthy controls (P ≤ 0.05 for all). Our findings revealed altered and enhanced immune cell infiltration in schistosomiasis. We suggest that these cells may contribute to the pathophysiology of Schistosoma resulting in pulmonary vascular remodeling.
Radiation feedback in dusty clouds
Authors: Ishiki Shohei , Okamoto Takashi
Published: December 2016

We have investigated the impact of photoionization and radiation pressure on a dusty star-forming cloud using one-dimensional radiation hydrodynamic simulations, which include absorption and re-emission of photons by dust. We find that, in a cloud of mass 105 M⊙ and radius 17 pc, the effect of radiation pressure is negligible when star formation efficiency is 2 per cent. The importance of radiation pressure increases with increasing star formation efficiency or an increasing dust-to-gas mass ratio. The net effect of radiation feedback, however, becomes smaller with the increasing dust-to-gas mass ratio, since the absorption of ultraviolet photons by dust grains suppresses photoionization and hence photoheating.
Changing Ploidy as a Strategy: The Irish Potato Famine Pathogen Shifts Ploidy in Relation to Its Sexuality
Authors: Li Ying , Shen He , Zhou Qian , Qian Kun , van der Lee Theo , Huang Sanwen
Published: December 2016

The oomycete Phytophthora infestans was the causal agent of the Irish Great Famine and is a recurring threat to global food security. The pathogen can reproduce both sexually and asexually, with high potential to adapt to various environments and great risk to break disease resistance genes in potato. As are other oomycetes, P. infestans is regarded to be diploid during the vegetative phase of its life cycle, although some studies reported trisomy and polyploidy. Using microsatellite fingerprinting, genome-wide assessment of single nucleotide polymorphisms, nuclear DNA quantification, and microscopic counting of chromosome numbers, we assessed the ploidy level of a comprehensive selection of isolates. All progenies from sexual populations of P. infestans in nature were found to be diploid, in contrast nearly all dominant asexual lineages, including the most important pandemic clonal lineages US-1 and 13_A2 were triploid. Such triploids possess significantly more allelic variation than diploids. We observed that triploid genotype can change to a diploid genome constitution when exposed to artificial stress conditions. This study reveals that fluctuations in the ploidy level may be a key factor in the adaptation process of this notorious plant destroyer and imposes an extra challenge to control this disease.
The Relationship Between Early Haloperidol Response and Associated Extrapyramidal Side Effects
Authors: Rasmussen Sean A. , Rosebush Patricia I. , Mazurek Michael F.
Published: December 2016

Background

Early response to antipsychotic medication within 2 weeks of initiating treatment can predict psychiatric outcomes. However, it is unclear whether early response is also predictive of extrapyramidal side effects (EPSs) associated with antipsychotic medications.

Methods

In this study, we investigated 136 consecutive antipsychotic-naive, first-episode psychosis patients naturalistically treated with haloperidol. Patients were assessed at baseline and weekly after treatment initiation using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. Dystonia, parkinsonism, akathisia, and dyskinesia were also assessed weekly using standardized rating scales. Regression analyses were used to determine whether early response at week 2 of treatment predicted the incidence of EPS at any point during hospitalization. A secondary analysis was conducted to determine whether early response continued to predict EPS in patients who experienced no EPS within the first 2 weeks of treatment.

Results

The analyses demonstrated that greater Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale percent improvement at week 2 predicted a decreased risk of EPSs (P = 0.004), even in patients who did not show any EPSs within the first 2 weeks of treatment (P = 0.005). For specific EPS, early response predicted decreased incidences of parkinsonism (P = 0.028) and dyskinesia (P = 0.025), but not akathisia or dystonia. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale improvement at week 2 did not predict EPSs. In addition, EPSs were not predicted by the maximum antipsychotic dose received during hospitalization.

Conclusions

These results indicate that early antipsychotic response is valuable not only for predicting psychiatric outcomes, but also for predicting the risk of EPSs.
Acute Mercury Poisoning in a Group of School Children
Authors: Güngör Olcay , Özkaya Ahmet Kağan , Kirik Serkan , Dalkiran Tahir , Güngör Gülay , Işikay Sedat , Davutoğlu Mehmet , Dilber Cengiz
Published: December 2016

Objective

Elemental mercury is a toxic liquid element that is used widely in the home, medicine, agriculture, and industry. It is readily vaporized and inhaled at room temperature. Thereby, inhalation can cause acute or chronic poisoning. Mercury can be found in environmental naturally find but some dangers sources give rise to contaminations. It can be very dangerous to all living organisms, especially children.

Methods

This study presents the features of mercury poisoning in a group of pediatric cases. Data were obtained for 29 pediatric cases exposed to elemental mercury in a high school chemistry laboratory in Turkey. Patients with a blood mercury level exceeding 10 μg/L or a urine mercury level exceeding 15 μg/L were considered to have mercury poisoning. The patients were treated with 2,3-dimercaptopropane sulfonic acid or D-penicillamine.

Results

Twenty-nine children with mercury poisoning were admitted to the hospital. The median duration of exposure was 58 (range, 15–120) minutes. Ten (29%) children were asymptomatic. Physical and neurological examinations were normal in 19 (65.5%) children. The most common presenting complaint was headache. The most common neurological abnormality, partly dilated/dilated pupils, was present in 9 (31%) children. Mercury levels were measured in blood samples every 5 days, and the median blood mercury level was 51.98 (range, 24.9–86.4) μg/L. There was a positive correlation between the duration of exposure and maximum blood/urine mercury levels (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Elemental mercury exposure is potentially toxic; its symptomatology varies, especially in children. Secure storage of mercury and other toxic substances and provision of information about this subject to individuals who might be exposed to mercury and their families might help to prevent mercury poisoning.
Extremely Small Pseudoparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle as a Novel Blood Pool T1 Magnetic Resonance Contrast Agent for 3 T Whole-Heart Coronary Angiography in Canines
Authors: Park Eun-Ah , Lee Whal , So Young Ho , Lee Yun-Sang , Jeon Bong-sik , Choi Kyu Sung , Kim Eung-gyu , Myeong Wan-Jae
Published: December 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate an extremely small pseudoparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (ESPIO), KEG3, as a potential blood pool agent in 3 T coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in canine models and compare its efficacy to that of a gadolinium-based contrast agent.

Materials and Methods

Nine mongrel dogs were subjected to whole-heart coronary MRA in 2 separate sessions at 7-day intervals with a 3 T scanner using the FLASH sequence with either gadoterate meglumine (Gd-DOTA) or the ESPIO (KEG3). Coronary MRA was performed twice at each MR examination: the first scan during the administration of the contrast agent and the subsequent second scan at 15 minutes after contrast injection. Objective measurements of the Gd-DOTA and ESPIO images, including the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) for the coronary arteries and cardiac veins, contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) between the vessels and fat (CNRfat) and the vessels and the myocardium (CNRmyocardium), and subjective image quality scores on a 4-point scale were evaluated and compared.

Results

The mean SNRs and CNRs of all vascular regions in the ESPIO images were similar to those of the corresponding regions in the Gd-DOTA images in the first scan (98.1 ± 32.5 vs 79.1 ± 38.4 for SNR of coronary arteries, P = 0.3; 74.2 ± 30.1 vs 61.4 ± 38.5 for CNR, P = 0.7) and more than 2 times higher than the latter in the second scan (95.2 ± 31.3 vs 32.1 ± 8.1 for SNR of coronary arteries, P = 0.008; 76.1 ± 35.8 vs 17.6 ± 19.2 for CNR, P 0.008). Similarly, the mean values of the subjective measurements of the ESPIO images were similar to those of the Gd-DOTA images (3.9 ± 0.3 vs 3.3 ± 0.8 for coronary arteries, P = 0.1) in the first scan and significantly better than the latter in the second scan (3.9 ± 0.2 vs 2.1 ± 0.6 for coronary arteries, P = 0.007).

Conclusions

The experimental blood pool agent KEG3 offers equivalent image quality for whole-heart coronary MRA at 3 T upon contrast administration and persistent better quality in the subsequent scans, compared with a traditional extracellular gadolinium-based contrast agent.
Application of microtomography and image analysis to the quantification of fragmentation in ceramics after impact loading
Authors: Forquin Pascal , Ando Edward
Published: December 2016

Silicon carbide ceramics are widely used in personal body armour and protective solutions. However, during impact, an intense fragmentation develops in the ceramic tile due to high-strain-rate tensile loadings. In this work, microtomography equipment was used to analyse the fragmentation patterns of two silicon carbide grades subjected to edge-on impact (EOI) tests. The EOI experiments were conducted in two configurations. The so-called open configuration relies on the use of an ultra-high-speed camera to visualize the fragmentation process with an interframe time set to 1 µs. The so-called sarcophagus configuration consists in confining the target in a metallic casing to avoid any dispersion of fragments. The target is infiltrated after impact so the final damage pattern is entirely scanned using X-ray tomography and a microfocus source. Thereafter, a three-dimensional (3D) segmentation algorithm was tested and applied in order to separate fragments in 3D allowing a particle size distribution to be obtained. Significant differences between the two specimens of different SiC grades were noted. To explain such experimental results, numerical simulations were conducted considering the Denoual–Forquin–Hild anisotropic damage model. According to the calculations, the difference of crack pattern in EOI tests is related to the population of defects within the two ceramics.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates’.
Ultra-high performance fibre-reinforced concrete under impact: experimental analysis of the mechanical response in extreme conditions and modelling using the Pontiroli, Rouquand and Mazars model
Authors: Erzar Benjamin , Pontiroli Christophe , Buzaud Eric
Published: December 2016

To evaluate the vulnerability of ultra-high performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) infrastructure to rigid projectile penetration, over the last few years CEA-Gramat has led an experimental and numerical research programme in collaboration with French universities. During the penetration process, concrete is subjected to extreme conditions of pressure and strain rate. Plasticity mechanisms as well as dynamic tensile and/or shear damage are activated during the tunnelling phase and the cratering of the concrete target. Each mechanism has been investigated independently at the laboratory scale and the role of steel fibres especially has been analysed to understand their influence on the macroscopic behaviour. To extend the experimental results to the structural scale, penetration tests on UHPFRC slabs have been conducted by CEA-Gramat. The analysis of this dataset combined with material characterization experiments allows the role of steel fibres to be identified in the different plasticity and damage mechanisms occurring during penetration. In parallel, some improvements have been introduced into the concrete model developed by Pontiroli, Rouquand and Mazars (PRM model), especially to take into account the contribution made by the fibres in the tensile fracture process. After a primary phase of validation, the capabilities of the PRM model are illustrated by performing numerical simulations of projectile penetration into UHPFRC concrete structures.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates’.
Experimental and numerical study of drill bit drop tests on Kuru granite
Authors: Fourmeau Marion , Kane Alexandre , Hokka Mikko
Published: December 2016

This paper presents an experimental and numerical study of Kuru grey granite impacted with a seven-buttons drill bit mounted on an instrumented drop test machine. The force versus displacement curves during the impact, so-called bit–rock interaction (BRI) curves, were obtained using strain gauge measurements for two levels of impact energy. Moreover, the volume of removed rock after each drop test was evaluated by stereo-lithography (three-dimensional surface reconstruction). A modified version of the Holmquist–Johnson–Cook (MHJC) material model was calibrated using Kuru granite test results available from the literature. Numerical simulations of the single drop tests were carried out using the MHJC model available in the LS-DYNA explicit finite-element solver. The influence of the impact energy and additional confining pressure on the BRI curves and the volume of the removed rock is discussed. In addition, the influence of the rock surface shape before impact was evaluated using two different mesh geometries: a flat surface and a hyperbolic surface. The experimental and numerical results are compared and discussed in terms of drilling efficiency through the mechanical specific energy.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Experimental testing and modelling of brittle materials at high strain rates’.
Preliminary investigation of Incorporation and Viability of Crystal Violet inAspergillus flavus
Authors: de Paula Luanda Caroline Parreira , Franco Daniel Guerra , Marchetti Clarice Rossatto , Giannesi Giovana Cristina , Zanoelo Fabiana Fonseca , de Oliveira Carla Santos
Published: December 2016

The abusive use of antimicrobials have caused resistance in the microorganisms. Therefore, inovations in research of modern microbiology developed the photodynamic inactivation that is non-toxic and do not promote microbian resistance since it has multiples action sites. When a photoactive molecule is activated by light, it becomes more toxic for the microorganism than for the human cells, increasing the phototoxic effect against such cells. We tested the incorporation of the photosensitizer crystal violet byAspergillus flavusand its viability in different periods of time of incubation (6 and 18 hours), concentrations of crystal violet (4μM, 10μM e 15 μM) and different conditions (resting and agitation). We also tested the photoinactivation ofAspergillus flavuscontaining crystal violet. The incorporation rate does not depend on the concentration of CV neither on the condition of incubation. It depends exclusively on the medium, since it presented higher values in lack ingredients medium. The assays of viability of fungi after exposure to crystal violet show that there is fungic growth when samples are maintained in the dark. However, when the culture were submitted to excitation via laser, there was a decrease in the biomass growth, which indicates that there was photodynamic inactivation of the fungi.
Detecting telomere elongation in longitudinal datasets: Analysis of a proposal by Simons, Stulp and Nakagawa
Authors: Nettle Daniel , Bateson Melissa
Published: December 2016

Telomere shortening has emerged as an important biomarker of aging. Longitudinal studies consistently find that, although telomere length shortens over time on average, there is a subset of individuals for whom telomere length is observed to increase. This apparent lengthening could either be a genuine biological phenomenon, or simply due to measurement and sampling error. Simons, Stulp and Nakagawa [Biogerontology15: 99-103, 2014] recently proposed a statistical test for detecting when the amount of apparent lengthening in a dataset exceeds that which should be expected due to error, and thus indicating that genuine elongation may be operative in some individuals. The test is however based on a restrictive assumption, namely that each individual’s true rate of telomere change is constant over time. It is not currently known whether this assumption is true. Here we show, using simulated datasets, that with perfect measurement and large sample size, the test has high power to detect true lengthening as long as the true rate of shortening is either constant, or moderately stable, over time. If the true rate of lengthening varies randomly from year to year, the test systematically returns type-II errors. We also consider the impact of measurement error. Using estimates of the magnitude of annual attrition and of measurement error derived from the human telomere literature, we show that power of the test is likely to be low in several empirically-realistic scenarios, even in large samples. Thus, whilst a significant result of the proposed test is likely to indicate that true lengthening is present in a data set, type-II errors are a likely outcome, either if measurement error is substantial, and/or the true rate of attrition varies substantially over time within individuals.
Roughness of a transmembrane peptide reduces lipid membrane dynamics
Authors: Olšinová Marie , Jurkiewicz Piotr , Sýkora Jan , Sabó Ján , Hof Martin , Cwiklik Lukasz , Cebecauer Marek
Published: December 2016

Transmembrane domains integrate proteins into cellular membranes and support their function. The capacity of these prevalently a-helical structures in mammals to influence membrane properties is poorly understood. Combining experiments with molecular dynamics simulations, we provide evidence that helical transmembrane peptides with their rough surface reduce lateral mobility of membrane constituents. The molecular mechanism involves trapping of lipid acyl chains on the rough surface and segregation of cholesterol from the vicinity of peptides. The observations are supported by our toy model indicating strong effect of rough objects on membrane dynamics. Herein described effect has implications for the organization and function of biological membranes, especially the plasma membrane with high cholesterol content.
CTCF and Cohesin Regulate Chromatin Loop Stability with Distinct Dynamics
Authors: Hansen Anders S. , Pustova Iryna , Cattoglio Claudia , Tjian Robert , Darzacq Xavier
Published: December 2016

Abstract/summary

Folding of mammalian genomes into spatial domains is critical for gene regulation. CTCF and cohesin control domain location by folding domains into loop structures, which are thought to be highly stable. Combining genomic, biochemical and single-molecule imaging approaches, we show that although CTCF and cohesin can physically interact, CTCF binds chromatin much more dynamically than cohesin (~1 minvs.~22 min residence time). Moreover, after unbinding, CTCF quickly rebinds another cognate site unlike cohesin (~1 minvs.~33 min). Thus, CTCF and cohesin form a rapidly exchanging “dynamic complex” rather than a typical stable complex. Since CTCF and cohesin are required for loop domain formation, our results suggest that chromatin loops constantly break and reform throughout the cell cycle.
Ethyl (2E)-3-dimethylamino-2-(5-methyl-1,2,4-triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-7-yl)prop-2-enoate
Authors: Lahmidi Sanae , Sebbar Nada Kheira , Harmaoui Abdallah , Ouzidan Younes , Essassi El Mokhtar , Mague Joel T.
Published: December 2016

In the title molecule, C13H17N5O2, the triazolopyrimidine ring system and the (dimethyamino)acrylate unit are nearly perpendicular to each other, subtending a dihedral angle of 78.55 (6)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked into aC(6) chain along theb-axis directionviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Navigating the “delicate relationship between empathy and critical distance”
Authors: Simon Rob , Evis Sarah , Walkland Ty , Kalan Amir , Baer Pamela
Published: December 2016

Purpose

This paper features artwork and artists’ statements by middle school students who participated in a research collaboration that involved co-authoring critical literacy curriculum for Art Spiegelman’s graphic novel Maus: A Survivors Tale (1986) with teacher candidates from the University of Toronto.

Design/methodology/approach

Youth explored personal and social justice issues through writing and artwork produced in response to Maus. In the process, they navigated what historian Dominick LaCapra (1998) has referred to as the “delicate relationship between empathy and critical distance” (pp. 4-5), between closely identifying with the agonizing experiences Spiegelman documents and using their inquiries to cultivate more critical positionalities and assume activist stances on historical and contemporary social justice issues.

Findings

As they describe in their brief statements included alongside their artwork, creating these projects allowed youth to bear witness to a terrible moment in human history and to envision how they can make a difference in their own communities.

Originality/value

This work suggests how the arts can be mobilized in critical literacy as a vehicle to interrogate difficult historical moments and multifaceted identity issues.
Effect of nutrient levels during the far‐off period on postpartum productivity in dairy cows
Authors: Hirabayashi Haruhi , Kawashima Kenji , Okimura Tomoko , Tateno Ayane , Suzuki Akitsu , Asakuma Sadaki , Isobe Naoki , Obitsu Taketo , Sugino Toshihisa , Kushibiki Shiro
Published: December 2016

The present study aimed to determine the effects of differing nutrient levels during the far‐off period on postpartum metabolism and milk production in lactating cows. Twenty‐six multiparous cows were assigned to three dietary treatments in the far‐off period: a low‐energy diet (L, n = 9, 80% intake of the total digestible nutrients requirement), a moderate‐energy diet (M, n = 8, 105%) and a high‐energy diet (H, n = 9, 130%). During the close‐up period, all cows were provided with 105% intake. After parturition, all cows were fed a lactation diet. The BCS recovery was slow, and low milk yield was found in the H group. In the L group, BCS recovery was favorable after parturition, and lactation persistence was increased. The L group had low rumen endotoxin activity and a high initial ovulation rate after parturition. These findings indicate that a high‐energy diet during the far‐off period has a deleterious effect on milk production. In contrast, the restricted diet in the far‐off period increased adaptability with respect to peri‐parturition metabolic changes, improved the post‐parturition nutritional state, and increased milk production. Furthermore, it suggests that the nutrient levels in the far‐off period affect rumen endotoxin activity and reproductive function after parturition.
Possible genes responsible for developmental delay observed in patients with rare 2q23q24 microdeletion syndrome: Literature review and description of an additional patient
Authors: Shimojima Keiko , Okamoto Nobuhiko , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: December 2016

Cases of 2q23q24 microdeletion syndrome are rare. Patients with chromosomal deletions in this region often show language impairment and/or developmental delay of variable severity. Previous genotype–phenotype correlation study suggested GALNT13 and KCNJ3 as possible candidate genes for such phenotypes. We identified a new overlapping deletion in a patient with severe developmental delay. The identified deletion extended toward the distal 2q24.1 region, and more severe phenotypes in the present patient were considered to be related to the additionally deleted genes including NR4A2 and GPD2. Previously reported chromosomal translocation and the mutation identified in GPD2 suggested that this gene would be responsible for the developmental delay. Re‐evaluation for the critical region for behavior abnormalities commonly observed in the patients with overlapping deletions of this region suggested that KCNJ3 rather than GALNT13 may be responsible for abnormal behaviors, although there was phenotypic variability. Combinatory deletions involving KCNJ3 and GPD2 may lead to more severe developmental delay. Further studies would be necessary to establish clearer genotype–phenotype correlation in patients with 2q23q24 microdeletion syndrome.