bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Study of the Energetic Proton Environment at Titan's Orbit From the Cassini Spacecraft
Authors: Regoli L. H. , Roussos E. , Dialynas K. , Luhmann J. G. , Sergis N. , Jia X. , Román D. , Azari A. , Krupp N. , Jones G. H. , Coates A. J. , Rae I. J.
Published: June 2018

A statistical study of the energetic proton environment at Titan's orbit as captured by the MIMI/LEMMS and MIMI/CHEMS instruments is performed. The data analyzed cover all the dedicated flybys of Titan by Cassini as well as the orbit crossings that happen far from the moon. The energetic environment is found to be highly variable on timescales comparable to that of the duration of a flyby. Analysis of H+ ion fluxes reveals a weak asymmetry in Saturn local time with the highest fluxes occurring in the premidnight sector of the magnetosphere. A correlation between the energetic ion fluxes and the location of Cassini in the magnetosphere with respect to the center of the current sheet can be observed. Finally, an empirical model of proton spectra for energies above 20 keV is derived based on fits to Kappa distribution functions. This model can be used to better understand the interaction of Titan with the magnetosphere and the energy deposition by energetic particles below the main ionospheric peak.
Radium Isotopes Across the Arctic Ocean Show Time Scales of Water Mass Ventilation and Increasing Shelf Inputs
Authors: Rutgers van der Loeff Michiel , Kipp Lauren , Charette Matthew A. , Moore Willard S. , Black Erin , Stimac Ingrid , Charkin Alexander , Bauch Dorothea , Valk Ole , Karcher Michael , Krumpen Thomas , Casacuberta Núria , Smethie William , Rember Robert
Published: June 2018

The first full transarctic section of 228Ra in surface waters measured during GEOTRACES cruises PS94 and HLY1502 (2015) shows a consistent distribution with maximum activities in the transpolar drift. Activities in the central Arctic have increased from 2007 through 2011 to 2015. The increased 228Ra input is attributed to stronger wave action on shelves resulting from a longer ice‐free season. A concomitant decrease in the 228Th/228Ra ratio likely results from more rapid transit of surface waters depleted in 228Th by scavenging over the shelf. The 228Ra activities observed in intermediate waters (<1,500 m) in the Amundsen Basin are explained by ventilation with shelf water on a time scale of about 15–18 years, in good agreement with estimates based on SF6 and 129I/236U. The 228Th excess below the mixed layer up to 1,500 m depth can complement 234Th and 210Po as tracers of export production, after correction for the inherent excess resulting from the similarity of 228Ra and 228Th decay times. We show with a Th/Ra profile model that the 228Th/228Ra ratio below 1,500 m is inappropriate for this purpose because it is a delicate balance between horizontal supply of 228Ra and vertical flux of particulate 228Th. The accumulation of 226Ra in the deep Makarov Basin is not associated with an accumulation of Ba and can therefore be attributed to supply from decay of 230Th in the bottom sediment. We estimate a ventilation time of 480 years for the deep Makarov‐Canada Basin, in good agreement with previous estimates using other tracers.
Formation of Evolved Rocks at Gale Crater by Crystal Fractionation and Implications for Mars Crustal Composition
Authors: Udry Arya , Gazel Esteban , McSween Harry Y.
Published: June 2018

The recent discovery of some ancient evolved rocks in Gale crater by the Curiosity rover has prompted the hypothesis that continental crust formed in early Martian history. Here we present petrological modeling that attempts to explain this lithological diversity by magma fractionation. Using the thermodynamical software MELTS, we model fractional crystallization of different Martian starting compositions that might generate felsic igneous compositions like those analyzed at Gale crater using different variables, such as pressure, oxygen fugacities, and water content. We show that similar chemical and mineralogical compositions observed in Gale crater felsic rocks can readily be obtained through different degrees of fractional crystallization of basaltic compositions measured on the Martian surface. The results suggest that Gale crater rocks may not represent true liquids as they possibly accumulated and/or fractionated feldspars as well as other phases. In terms of major element compositions and mineralogy, we found that the Gale crater felsic compositions are more similar to fractionated magmas produced in Earth's intraplate volcanoes than to terrestrial felsic continental crust as represented by tonalite‐trondhjemite‐granodiorite suites. We conclude that the felsic rocks in Gale crater do not represent continental crust, as it is defined on Earth.
Ion Charge States and Potential Geoeffectiveness: The Role of Coronal Spectroscopy for Space‐Weather Forecasting
Authors: Owens M. J. , Lockwood M. , Barnard L. A.
Published: June 2018

Severe space weather is driven by interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs), episodic eruptions of solar plasma, and magnetic flux that travel out through the heliosphere and can perturb the Earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere. In order for space‐weather forecasts to allow effective mitigating action, forecasts must be made as early as possible, necessitating identification of potentially “geoeffective” ICMEs close to the Sun. This presents two challenges. First, geoeffectiveness is primarily determined by the magnetic field intensity and orientation, both of which are difficult to measure close to the Sun. Second, the magnetic field evolves in transit between the Sun and the Earth, sometimes in a highly nonlinear way. Conversely, solar wind ion charge states, such as the ratio of O7+ to O6+, are fixed by the electron temperature at the coronal height where ion‐electron collisions are last possible as the ICME erupts. After this point, they are said to be “frozen in” as they do not evolve further as the ICME propagates through the solar wind. In this study we show that ion charge states, while not geoeffective in and of themselves, act as strong markers for the geoeffectiveness of the ICME. The probability of severe space weather is around 7 times higher in “hot” ICMEs than “cold” ICMEs, as defined by O7+/O6+. We suggest that coronal spectroscopy of ICMEs could complement current forecasting techniques, providing valuable additional information about potential geoeffectiveness.
Parasitic insect-derived miRNAs modulate host development
Authors: Wang Zhi-zhi , Ye Xi-qian , Shi Min , Li Fei , Wang Ze-hua , Zhou Yue-nan , Gu Qi-juan , Wu Xiao-tong , Yin Chuan-lin , Guo Dian-hao , Hu Rong-min , Hu Na-na , Chen Ting , Zheng Bo-ying , Zou Jia-ni , Zhan Le-qing , Wei Shu-jun , Wang Yan-ping , Huang Jian-hua , Fang Xiao-dong , Strand Michael R. , Chen Xue-xin
Published: June 2018

Parasitic wasps produce several factors including venom, polydnaviruses (PDVs) and specialized wasp cells named teratocytes that benefit the survival of offspring by altering the physiology of hosts. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms for the alterations remain unclear. Here we find that the teratocytes of Cotesia vestalis, an endoparasitoid of the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella, and its associated bracovirus (CvBV) can produce miRNAs and deliver the products into the host via different ways. Certain miRNAs in the parasitized host are mainly produced by teratocytes, while the expression level of miRNAs encoded by CvBV can be 100-fold greater in parasitized hosts than non-parasitized ones. We further show that one teratocyte-produced miRNA (Cve-miR-281-3p) and one CvBV-produced miRNA (Cve-miR-novel22-5p-1) arrest host growth by modulating expression of the host ecdysone receptor (EcR). Altogether, our results show the first evidence of cross-species regulation by miRNAs in animal parasitism and their possible function in the alteration of host physiology during parasitism.
A novel atypical sperm centriole is functional during human fertilization
Authors: Fishman Emily L. , Jo Kyoung , Nguyen Quynh P. H. , Kong Dong , Royfman Rachel , Cekic Anthony R. , Khanal Sushil , Miller Ann L. , Simerly Calvin , Schatten Gerald , Loncarek Jadranka , Mennella Vito , Avidor-Reiss Tomer
Published: June 2018

The inheritance of the centrosome during human fertilization remains mysterious. Here we show that the sperm centrosome contains, in addition to the known typical barrel-shaped centriole (the proximal centriole, PC), a surrounding matrix (pericentriolar material, PCM), and an atypical centriole (distal centriole, DC) composed of splayed microtubules surrounding previously undescribed rods of centriole luminal proteins. The sperm centrosome is remodeled by both reduction and enrichment of specific proteins and the formation of these rods during spermatogenesis. In vivo and in vitro investigations show that the flagellum-attached, atypical DC is capable of recruiting PCM, forming a daughter centriole, and localizing to the spindle pole during mitosis. Altogether, we show that the DC is compositionally and structurally remodeled into an atypical centriole, which functions as the zygote’s second centriole. These findings now provide novel avenues for diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for male infertility, and insights into early embryo developmental defects.
Learning local, quenched disorder in plasticity and other crackling noise phenomena
Authors: Papanikolaou Stefanos
Published: June 2018

When far from equilibrium, many-body systems display behavior that strongly depends on the initial conditions. A characteristic such example is the phenomenon of plasticity of crystalline and amorphous materials that strongly depends on the material history. In plasticity modeling, the history is captured by a quenched, local and disordered flow stress distribution. While it is this disorder that causes avalanches that are commonly observed during nanoscale plastic deformation, the functional form and scaling properties have remained elusive. In this paper, a generic formalism is developed for deriving local disorder distributions from field-response (e.g., stress/strain) timeseries in models of crackling noise. We demonstrate the efficiency of the method in the hysteretic random-field Ising model and also, models of elastic interface depinning that have been used to model crystalline and amorphous plasticity. We show that the capacity to resolve the quenched disorder distribution improves with the temporal resolution and number of samples.
Mouse medulloblastoma driven by CRISPR activation of cellular Myc
Authors: Vo BaoHan T. , Kwon Jin Ah , Li Chunliang , Finkelstein David , Xu Beisi , Orr Brent A. , Sherr Charles J. , Roussel Martine F.
Published: June 2018

MYC-driven Group 3 (G3) medulloblastoma (MB) is the most aggressive of four molecular subgroups classified by transcriptome, genomic landscape and clinical outcomes. Mouse models that recapitulate human G3 MB all rely on retroviral vector-induced Myc expression driven by viral regulatory elements (Retro-Myc tumors). We used nuclease-deficient CRISPR/dCas9-based gene activation with combinatorial single guide RNAs (sgRNAs) to enforce transcription of endogenous Myc in Trp53-null neurospheres that were orthotopically transplanted into the brains of naïve animals. Three combined sgRNAs linked to dCas9-VP160 induced cellular Myc expression and large cell anaplastic MBs (CRISPR-Myc tumors) which recapitulated the molecular characteristics of mouse and human G3 MBs. The BET inhibitor JQ1 suppressed MYC expression in a human G3 MB cell line (HD-MB03) and CRISPR-Myc, but not in Retro-Myc MBs. This G3 MB mouse model in which Myc expression is regulated by its own promoter will facilitate pre-clinical studies with drugs that regulate Myc transcription.
Lysosomal Targeting Enhancement by Conjugation of Glycopeptides Containing Mannose-6-phosphate Glycans Derived from Glyco-engineered Yeast
Authors: Kang Ji-Yeon , Shin Keun Koo , Kim Ha Hyung , Min Jeong-Ki , Ji Eun Sun , Kim Jin Young , Kwon Ohsuk , Oh Doo-Byoung
Published: June 2018

Many therapeutic enzymes for lysosomal storage diseases require a high content of mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) glycan, which is important for cellular uptake and lysosomal targeting. We constructed glyco-engineered yeast harboring a high content of mannosylphosphorylated glycans, which can be converted to M6P glycans by uncapping of the outer mannose residue. In this study, the cell wall of this yeast was employed as a natural M6P glycan source for conjugation to therapeutic enzymes. The extracted cell wall mannoproteins were digested by pronase to generate short glycopeptides, which were further elaborated by uncapping and α(1,2)-mannosidase digestion steps. The resulting glycopeptides containing M6P glycans (M6PgPs) showed proper cellular uptake and lysosome targeting. The purified M6PgPs were successfully conjugated to a recombinant acid α-glucosidase (rGAA), used for the treatment of Pompe disease, by two-step reactions using two hetero-bifunctional crosslinkers. First, rGAA and M6PgPs were modified with crosslinkers containing azide and dibenzocyclooctyne, respectively. In the second reaction using copper-free click chemistry, the azide-functionalized rGAA was conjugated with dibenzocyclooctyne-functionalized M6PgPs without the loss of enzyme activity. The M6PgP-conjugated rGAA had a 16-fold higher content of M6P glycan than rGAA, which resulted in greatly increased cellular uptake and efficient digestion of glycogen accumulated in Pompe disease patient fibroblasts.
Harvesting electrical energy from torsional thermal actuation driven by natural convection
Authors: Kim Shi Hyeong , Sim Hyeon Jun , Hyeon Jae Sang , Suh Dongseok , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Baughman Ray H. , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: June 2018

The development of practical, cost-effective systems for the conversion of low-grade waste heat to electrical energy is an important area of renewable energy research. We here demonstrate a thermal energy harvester that is driven by the small temperature fluctuations provided by natural convection. This harvester uses coiled yarn artificial muscles, comprising well-aligned shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) microfibers, to convert thermal energy to torsional mechanical energy, which is then electromagnetically converted to electrical energy. Temperature fluctuations in a yarn muscle, having a maximum hot-to-cold temperature difference of about 13 °C, were used to spin a magnetic rotor to a peak torsional rotation speed of 3,000 rpm. The electromagnetic energy generator converted the torsional energy to electrical energy, thereby producing an oscillating output voltage of up to 0.81 V and peak power of 4 W/kg, based on SMPU mass.
Development of quantitation method for glycated aminophospholipids at the molecular species level in powdered milk and powdered buttermilk
Authors: Kodate Ai , Otoki Yurika , Shimizu Naoki , Ito Junya , Kato Shunji , Umetsu Naoki , Miyazawa Teruo , Nakagawa Kiyotaka
Published: June 2018

The Maillard reaction is a nonenzymatic glycation reaction between a reducing sugar and a free amino group, known to naturally occur during heat processing of food. In this study, we especially focused on phosphatidylethanolamine (PE)-linked Amadori products (Amadori-PE) in powdered milk, since the analysis of these products at the molecular species level has not yet been evaluated. Analysis of Amadori-PE was conducted by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in three different modes. The main Amadori-PE species in a powdered milk sample were first identified as 34:1, 36:1, 36:2 and 36:3 in the total ion current mode. Additionally, by using the characteristic product ions observed in the presence of sodium, we quantified the main Amadori-PE species in the multiple reaction monitoring mode, and evaluated their total concentrations in the precursor ion scan (PIS) mode for the first time. Powdered milk contained much Amadori-PE with concentrations ranging from 4.3 to 8239 mg/100 g, quantified by the PIS mode. The newly developed methods represent powerful tools for detailed analysis of glycated lipids including Amadori-PE in powdered milk, which may further be applied to research relating to infant food and nutrition.
Pyrimidine synthesis inhibition enhances cutaneous defenses against antibiotic resistant bacteria through activation of NOD2 signaling
Authors: Jatana Samreen , Homer Craig R. , Madajka Maria , Ponti András K. , Kabi Amrita , Papay Francis , McDonald Christine
Published: June 2018

Multidrug-resistant bacterial strains are a rapidly emerging healthcare threat; therefore it is critical to develop new therapies to combat these organisms. Prior antibacterial strategies directly target pathogen growth or viability. Host-directed strategies to increase antimicrobial defenses may be an effective alternative to antibiotics and reduce development of resistant strains. In this study, we demonstrated the efficacy of a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor, N-phosphonacetyl-l-aspartate (PALA), to enhance clearance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii strains by primary human dermal fibroblasts in vitro. PALA did not have a direct bactericidal effect, but enhanced cellular secretion of the antimicrobial peptides human β-defensin 2 (HBD2) and HBD3 from fibroblasts. When tested in porcine and human skin explant models, a topical PALA formulation was efficacious to enhance MRSA, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii clearance. Topical PALA treatment of human skin explants also resulted in increased HBD2 and cathelicidin (LL-37) production. The antimicrobial actions of PALA required expression of nucleotide-binding, oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2), receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 2 (RIP2), and carbamoyl phosphatase synthase II/aspartate transcarbamylase/dihydroorotase (CAD). Our results indicate that PALA may be a new option to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections of the skin through enhancement of an integral pathway of the cutaneous innate immune defense system.
Therapeutic positioning of secretory acetylated APE1/Ref-1 requirement for suppression of tumor growth in triple-negative breast cancer in vivo
Authors: Lee Yu Ran , Park Myoung Soo , Joo Hee Kyoung , Kim Ki Mo , Kim Jeryong , Jeon Byeong Hwa , Choi Sunga
Published: June 2018

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a relatively small proportion of all BCs but a relatively large proportion of BC-related death. Thus, more effective therapeutic strategies are needed for the management of TNBC. We demonstrated that the stimulation of apoptosis by the binding of secreted acetylated-apurinic apyrimidinic endonuclease 1/redox factor-1 (Ac-APE1/Ref-1) to the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) was essential for TNBC cell death in response to hyperacetylation. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential therapeutic efficacy of secretory Ac-APE1/Ref-1 in orthotopic TNBC xenografts in vivo. We found that hyperacetylation in xenografts caused secretion of Ac-APE1/Ref-1 into the blood, where the factor bound directly to RAGE in hyperacetylated tumor tissues. Hyperacetylation in the TNBC xenografts induced strong inhibition of tumor growth and development, leading to apoptotic cell death, accompanied by increased RAGE expression and generation of reactive oxygen species. Tissues exhibited markedly higher counts of apoptotic bodies, a reduced proliferation index, and reduced neovascularization compared with control tumors. Ac-APE1/Ref-1-stimulated apoptosis was markedly reduced in RAGE-knockdown tumors compared with RAGE-overexpressing tumors, even in the presence of hyperacetylation. The function of secreted Ac-APE1/Ref-1 was confirmed in other hyperacetylated TNBCs xenografts using BT-549 and MDA-MB-468 cells, demonstrating its relevance as an anti-cancer molecule.
28-homobrassinolide regulates antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expression in response to salt- and temperature-induced oxidative stress in Brassica juncea
Authors: Kaur Harpreet , Sirhindi Geetika , Bhardwaj Renu , Alyemeni M. N. , Siddique Kadambot H. M , Ahmad Parvaiz
Published: June 2018

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are a group of naturally occurring plant steroid hormones that can induce plant tolerance to various plant stresses by regulating ROS production in cells, but the underlying mechanisms of this scavenging activity by BRs are not well understood. This study investigated the effects of 28-homobrassinolide (28-HBL) seed priming on Brassica juncea seedlings subjected to the combined stress of extreme temperatures (low, 4 °C or high, 44 °C) and salinity (180 mM), either alone or supplemented with 28-HBL treatments (0, 10−6, 10−9, 10−12 M). The combined temperature and salt stress treatments significantly reduced shoot and root lengths, but these improved when supplemented with 28-HBL although the response was dose-dependent. The combined stress alone significantly increased H2O2 content, but was inhibited when supplemented with 28-HBL. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APOX), glutathione reductase (GR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR) increased in response to 28-HBL. Overall, the 28-HBL seed priming treatment improved the plant’s potential to combat the toxic effects imposed by the combined temperature and salt stress by tightly regulating the accumulation of ROS, which was reflected in the improved redox state of antioxidants.
Angiogenic Factors produced by Hypoxic Cells are a leading driver of Anastomoses in Sprouting Angiogenesis–a computational study
Authors: Moreira-Soares Maurício , Coimbra Rita , Rebelo Luís , Carvalho João , D. M. Travasso Rui
Published: June 2018

Angiogenesis - the growth of new blood vessels from a pre-existing vasculature - is key in both physiological processes and on several pathological scenarios such as cancer progression or diabetic retinopathy. For the new vascular networks to be functional, it is required that the growing sprouts merge either with an existing functional mature vessel or with another growing sprout. This process is called anastomosis. We present a systematic 2D and 3D computational study of vessel growth in a tissue to address the capability of angiogenic factor gradients to drive anastomosis formation. We consider that these growth factors are produced only by tissue cells in hypoxia, i.e. until nearby vessels merge and become capable of carrying blood and irrigating their vicinity. We demonstrate that this increased production of angiogenic factors by hypoxic cells is able to promote vessel anastomoses events in both 2D and 3D. The simulations also verify that the morphology of these networks has an increased resilience toward variations in the endothelial cell’s proliferation and chemotactic response. The distribution of tissue cells and the concentration of the growth factors they produce are the major factors in determining the final morphology of the network.
Behaviour of aqueous sulfamethizole solution and temperature effects in cold plasma oxidation treatment
Authors: Sokolov Alexander , Louhi-Kultanen Marjatta
Published: June 2018

The increase in volume and variety of pharmaceuticals found in natural water bodies has become an increasingly serious environmental problem. The implementation of cold plasma technology, specifically gas-phase pulsed corona discharge (PCD), for sulfamethizole abatement was studied in the present work. It was observed that sulfamethizole is easily oxidized by PCD. The flow rate and pH of the solution have no significant effect on the oxidation. Treatment at low pulse repetition frequency is preferable from the energy efficiency point of view but is more time-consuming. The maximum energy efficiency was around 120 g/kWh at half-life and around 50 g/kWh at the end of the treatment. Increasing the solution temperature from room temperature to 50 °C led to a significant reaction retardation of the process and decrease in energy efficiency. The pseudo-first order reaction rate constant (k1) grows with increase in pulse repetition frequency and does not depend on pH. By contrast, decreasing frequency leads to a reduction of the second order reaction rate constant (k2). At elevated temperature of 50 °C, thek1,k2values decrease 2 and 2.9 times at 50 pps and 500 pps respectively. Lower temperature of 10 °C had no effect on oxidation efficiency compared with room temperature.
Widespread abiotic methane in chromitites
Authors: Etiope G. , Ifandi E. , Nazzari M. , Procesi M. , Tsikouras B. , Ventura G. , Steele A. , Tardini R. , Szatmari P.
Published: June 2018

Recurring discoveries of abiotic methane in gas seeps and springs in ophiolites and peridotite massifs worldwide raised the question of where, in which rocks, methane was generated. Answers will impact the theories on life origin related to serpentinization of ultramafic rocks, and the origin of methane on rocky planets. Here we document, through molecular and isotopic analyses of gas liberated by rock crushing, that among the several mafic and ultramafic rocks composing classic ophiolites in Greece, i.e., serpentinite, peridotite, chromitite, gabbro, rodingite and basalt, only chromitites, characterized by high concentrations of chromium and ruthenium, host considerable amounts of 13C-enriched methane, hydrogen and heavier hydrocarbons with inverse isotopic trend, which is typical of abiotic gas origin. Raman analyses are consistent with methane being occluded in widespread microfractures and porous serpentine- or chlorite-filled veins. Chromium and ruthenium may be key metal catalysts for methane production via Sabatier reaction. Chromitites may represent source rocks of abiotic methane on Earth and, potentially, on Mars.
First Report on High Entropy Alloy Nanoparticle Decorated Graphene
Authors: Rekha M. Y. , Mallik Nitin , Srivastava Chandan
Published: June 2018

This is the first report on synthesis of multimetal high entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticle-few layer graphene composite. A two-step methodology for synthesizing multi-component HEA nanoparticle-graphene composite is provided. In the first step, high purity graphite powder was mechanically milled with metal powders (Ni, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe) to produce multimetal-graphite composite. This composite was then sonicated with sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) for 2 hours to produce a dispersion of graphene decorated with multi-component nanoparticles with face centred cubic structure. Potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods revealed that the HEA nanoparticle graphene composite possess excellent corrosion resistance properties which was better than the corrosion resistance exhibited by milled and exfoliated graphene. The HEA nanoparticle-graphene composite can be used for corrosion resistant coating applications.
Defect state of indium-doped bismuth molybdate nanosheets for enhanced photoreduction of chromium(vi) under visible light illumination
Authors: Li Zhongfu , Wu Zhaohui , Zhang Shumin , Shen Jie , Feng Wenhui , Du Yi , Wan Long , Zhang Shiying
Published: June 2018

The construction of defect states is an effective method for regulating the energy band structure of photocatalytic semiconductor materials.
Optimal synthetic conditions for a novel and high performance Ni-rich cathode material of LiNi0.68Co0.10Mn0.22O2
Authors: Li Xing , Zhang Kangjia , Wang Siyuan , Wang Mingshan , Jiang Fei , Liu Yang , Huang Yun , Zheng Jianming
Published: June 2018

A novel Ni-rich LiNi0.68Co0.10Mn0.22O2 cathode with excellent cycling and rate performances is suitable for high energy density LIBs.
A computational model of amoeboid cell motility in the presence of obstacles
Authors: Campbell Eric J. , Bagchi Prosenjit
Published: June 2018

Locomotion of amoeboid cells is mediated by finger-like protrusions of the cell body, known as pseudopods, which grow, bifurcate, and retract in a dynamic fashion.
Thermal control of transmission property by phase transition in cholesteric liquid crystals
Authors: Oh Seung-Won , Kim Sang-Hyeok , Yoon Tae-Hoon
Published: June 2018

Cholesteric liquid crystals (LCs) responsive to external stimuli, such as temperature or light, can be used for color switching or tuning through the change in the cholesteric pitch.
The association between chemical-induced porphyria and hepatic cancer
Authors: Smith Andrew G. , Foster John R.
Published: June 2018

The haem biosynthetic pathway is of fundamental importance for cellular metabolism both for the erythroid and nonerythroid tissues. There are several genetic variants of the pathway in the human population that cause dysfunction of one or other of the enzymes resulting in porphyrias of varying severity. Serious chronic hepatic and systemic diseases may result. Some of these can be precipitated by exposure to drugs including hormones, barbiturates and antibiotics, as well as alcohol and particular chlorinated aromatic chemicals. In experimental animals some of the steps of this pathway can also be severely disrupted by a variety of environmental chemicals, potential drugs and pesticides, especially in the liver, leading to the accumulation of uroporphyrins derived from the intermediate uroporphyrinogens or protoporphyrin IX, the immediate precursor of haem. With some of these chemicals this also leads to cholestasis and liver cell injury and eventually hepatic tumours. The review evaluates the available evidence linking hepatic porphyria with carcinogenesis in naturally occurring human genetic conditions and in chemically-induced porphyrias in laboratory animals. The existing data showing gender, strain, and species differences in sensitivity to the chemical-induced porphyrias, liver injury and liver tumours are discussed and the role that transgenically altered mouse models have played in defining the varying mechanisms. Finally, the review proposes a novel, unifying hypothesis linking the hepatotoxicity induced by the accumulation of various porphyrins, with the increased risk of developing hepatic cancer as a long term consequence.
Energy‐efficient modified LEACH protocol for IoT application
Authors: Behera Trupti Mayee , Samal Umesh Chandra , Mohapatra Sushanta Kumar
Published: June 2018

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have a wide range of applications in various fields. One of the most recent emerging applications are in the world of Internet of Things (IoT), which allows inter‐connection of different objects or devices through the Internet. However, limited battery power is the major concern of WSNs as compared to mobile ad‐hoc network, which affects the longevity of the network. Hence, a lot of research has been focused on to minimise the energy consumption of the WSNs. Designing of a hierarchical clustering algorithm is one of the numerous approaches to minimise the energy of the WSNs. In this study, the existing low‐energy adaptive clustering hierarchy (LEACH) clustering protocol is modified by introducing a threshold limit for cluster head selection with simultaneously switching the power level between the nodes. The proposed modified LEACH protocol outperforms as compared to the existing LEACH protocol with 67% rise in throughput and extending the number of alive nodes to 1750 rounds which can be used to enhance the WSN lifetime. When compared with other energy efficient protocols, it is found that the proposed algorithm performs better in terms of stability period and network lifetime in different scenarios of area, energy and node density.
The color of refractory organic carbon
Authors: Debret Maxime , Copard Yoann , Van Exem Antonin , Bessereau Geneviève , Haeseler Frank , Rouzaud Jean-Noël
Published: June 2018

Organic matter studies find an echo within different topics such as biogeochemical cycles, processes occurring in continental surfaces, anthropogenic activities, climate science, earth and planetary sciences, etc. Today’s challenges include finding and developing the most appropriate method(s) supporting the differentiation and characterisation of various types of recalcitrant organic matter in modern environments. In this study, we focus on combustion residues and coals as these two types of organic matter contain a significant amount of so-called recalcitrant organic carbon (black carbon and fossil organic carbon). Both these materials are ubiquitous, broadly stem from the same living organisms and have similar polyaromatic structures. In this respect, we tested a spectrophotometry method, classically used for sedimentology, as a very fast method for preliminary investigations. Analyses were performed with a wide range of standards and referenced samples. The results discriminate three different spectral signatures related to the degree of transformation of organic matter related to the degree of aromaticity (i.e. carbonisation). Using calibration curves, total organic carbon content can be estimated in experimental mixes with mineral matter and in a real context using subsurface sample (Gironville 101 borehole, Paris Basin, France). This method has particularly high sensitivity to very low organic matter content and is shown to be promising for a rapid evaluation of the organic carbon content.
Facing climate variability in sub-Saharan Africa: analysis of climate-smart agriculture opportunities to manage climate-related risks
Authors: Zougmoré Robert B. , Partey Samuel T. , Ouédraogo Mathieu , Torquebiau Emmanuel , Campbell Bruce M.
Published: June 2018

In the literature, a lot of information is available about climate change perceptions and impacts in sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is limited attention in the region to emerging initiatives, technologies and policies that are tailored to building the adaptive capacity of agricultural systems to climate change and variability. In this paper, we discuss the prospects for climate-smart agriculture technologies and enabling policies in dealing with climate change and variability at different sub-regional levels of sub-Saharan Africa to sustain farm productivity and livelihoods of agrarian communities. The review provides substantial information suggesting that without appropriate interventions, climate change and variability will affect agricultural yields, food security and add to the presently unaceptable levels of poverty in sub-Saharan Africa. Although some of them were already existing, the past decades have seen the development and promotion of climate-smart agriculture innovations such as the use of high yielding drought tolerant crop varieties, climate information services, agricultural insurance, agroforestry, water harvesting techniques, integrated soil fertility management practices, etc. In the context of climate change, this appears as a stepping up approach to sustainably improving farm productivity, rural livelihoods and adaptive capacity of farmers and production systems while contributing to mitigation. The development of regional, sub-regional and national climate change policies and plans targeted at mitigating climate change and improving adaptive capacity of the African people have also been developed to enable mainstreaming of climate-smart agriculture into agricultural development plans. Financial commitments from governments and development agencies will be crucial for improving large scale adoption of climate-smart agriculture.
Dissatisfaction with Nasal Tip Shape: Secondary Tip Maneuvers
Authors: Moyer Jeffrey
Published: June 2018

Dissatisfaction with the appearance of the nasal tip is a common compliant in patients seeking revision surgery after rhinoplasty. Revision rhinoplasty is more technically difficult and unpredictable given the frequent presence of scar contracture, impaired skin envelope quality, and missing alar cartilage. This article describes some of the more common causes for tip revision surgery and techniques to address these abnormalities.
Outcomes After PCI in Patients with LV Dysfunction
Authors: Ravikiran M , Indrani G.
Published: June 2018

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common cause of left ventricular dysfunction. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patient with LV dysfunction is a high risk procedure and may be associated with adverse outcomes. We observed for outcomes after PCI in the elective and acute coronary syndrome setting in patient with LV dysfunction.

Methods: A prospective single center study was performed in 836 patients with and without LV dysfunction who underwent PCI with a follow up period of 1 year for MACCE.

Results: A total of 836 patients were studied. 329 (39.4%) patients have LV dysfunction (LVD) and 507 (60.6%) patients have good LV function (GLV). Among the patients with LVD, 160 (48.6%) has mild, 89 (27.1%) has moderate, 80 (24.3%) has severe LVD. Mean age was 56.5±12.5 years in patients with GLV and 58.8±10 years in LVD patients (p=0.003). Number of males were 259 (78.7%) in LVD and 364 (71.7%) in GLV group. Hypertension and diabetes were present in 237(72%) vs 368(72.5%), 168 (51%) vs 286 (56.4%) in LVD and GLV groups respectively (p=0.8, 0.1). There was no difference in the previous history of CABG (5.2% vs 3.4%, p=0.2) and PCI (19.5% vs 16.4%, p=0.3) in both groups. 174 (52.9%) patients with LVD and 409 (80.7%) patients with GLV has chronic stable angina. Multivessel PCI was done in 79 (24%) patients with LVD and 110 (21.7%) patients with GLV (p=0.4). Major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) occurred in 3 patients with mild, 5 patients with moderate, 6 patients with severe LVD during the follow up of 1 year. There was no difference in outcomes between the LVD and GLV group at one year (p=0.2), but when a subgroup analysis was made among patients with LV dysfunction there was a significant occurrence of MACCE in patients with severe LV dysfunction when compared with mild LVD (p=0.05).

Conclusion: There was no significant difference between the occurrence of MACCE in patients with LV dysfunction and without LV dysfunction who underwent PCI. But when a subgroup analysis was done there was a significant occurrence of MACCE in patients with severe LV dysfunction (p=0.05) when compared to mild LVD.
Application of Genetic Testing for CYP 450 Polymorphism to Predict Response to Clopidogrel Inpatient Undergoing PCI
Authors: Ram V , Lalita N , Jyotsna Maddury
Published: June 2018

Introduction: The anti-platelet agent clopidogrel is a commonly prescribed medication in patients in patients who are undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Response to clopidogrel varies substantially due to genetic and acquired factors. Patients who experience recurrent cardiovascular ischemic or thrombotic events while taking clopidogrel are typically described as non-responsive or resistant. In our study was planned to assess the utility of pharmaco-genetic testing (CYP2C19) for clopidogrel response and application of the data for modification of anti-platelet regimen accordingly. Methods: This is a prospective nonrandomized ethical committee approved study from our institute. We included the post PCI patients presented with chronic stable angina and acute coronary syndrome (who has less bleeding risk score) with good left ventricular function. Along with the demographic and clinical features, we collected the data of platelet aggregation test (light transmission of aggregometry), CYP2C19 genetic analysis test and clinical outcome at the time of discharge, at 15days of discharge and end of 3 months. CYP2C19 genetic analysis is done by method of DNA based clopidogrel resistance genotyping test. We grouped the cases as extensive metabolizers (EM) and intermediate metabolizers (IM) depending on CYP2C19genetic analysis into two groups.

Results: A total of 33 patients are included in this study. Among 33 cases, 25(75.7%) cases are male patients and 8(24.2%) cases are female patient, 18 (54.5%) patients are diabetic Mellitus, 20(60.6%) patient are hypertensives, 7(21.2%) cases are smokers and 5 (15.1%) case are alcoholic. We have diagnosed 20(60.6%) cases of unstable angina and 13(39.4%) cases of chronic stable angina. The average Meheran bleeding risk score is 9.8. Age, risk factors are comparable between the the EM and IM group. But presentation of ACS is more in IM (p=0.001).

Follow up at 3 months, one died suddenly (probable stent thrombosis) in EM group. No other MACE occurred in both the groups. Multivariate analysis with binary logistic regression showed that only presentation as ACS is statistically significant in IM (p=0.001). Platelet aggregation showed tendency towards statistical significance (p=0.08) in EM patient. With all other parameters including MACE (p=0.3), there is no statistical significance by multivariate analysis.

Conclusion: In our small prospective clinical and genetic analysis of clopidogrel metabolizer status has shown that intermediate metabolizer status of the patient is statistically more in unstable angina (p=0.003). There is tendency for statistically significance between the platelet aggregation test (p=0.08) and extensive metabolizer status of the patient. Whatever may be the status of the clopidogrel metabolizing condition, there is no difference in MACE.
Pilot Study of Coronary Artery Calcification by Computerized Tomography as Non-Invasive Predictor of Coronary Artery Disease in Asymptomatic Elderly Diabetics
Authors: Maheshwari Monika
Published: June 2018

75-80% mortality in diabetics result from coronary artery disease. Helical computed tomography is a noninvasive technology for evaluating the extent of coronary artery atherosclerosis by detecting coronary artery calcium. In our study, we analyzed the data of CT scans in 25 diabetic and 25 nondiabetic population, who are > 70 years. We found calcium density > 400 HU is more in elderly asymptomatic diabetics (75%) when compared to nondiabetic elderly patients (20%), which is statistically significant (p=0.03). Therefore, screening such high risk population is warranted, so as to take early preventive steps and decrease morbidity and mortality.
Applicability of Appropriate Use Criteria for Myocardial Perfusion Scan in Indian Scenario
Authors: Kenchi Gopi , Kavitha N. , Srivastava Madhur
Published: June 2018

Background: Appropriate usage Criteria (AUC) for nuclear imaging exams were created by American College of Cardiology (ACC) e American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) to allow the rational use of tests. Little is known whether these criteria have been followed in clinical practice. Objective: To evaluate whether the medical applications of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in a tertiary cardiology hospital were suitable to the criteria of indications proposed by the American medical societies in 2009.

Methods: We included records of patients who undergone MPS, from April 2016 up to August 2016. Demographic characteristics, patient's origin, coronary risk factors, clinical presentation, ECG, 2d echocardiogram, TMT and AUC of medical applications were studied. The criteria were evaluated by two independent cardiologists and, in doubtful cases, defined by a medical expert in MPS.

Results: Total no of cases included in the study were 334 patients. Mean age was 62 ± 10 years. Of the 334 records reviewed, 201 (60.17%) studies were performed in men and 133 (39.8%) were performed in women. With ACC 2009, 168 (50.29%) were considered appropriate indications and 166 (49.70%) were considered inappropriate and uncertain indications. The AUC Sensitivity is 78.8, Specificity of 58.7%, Positive Predictive Value of 37.5% and Negative Predictive Value of 89.8%.

Conclusions: In 63(18.8%) of patients MPS investigation is used appropriately to detect the CAD according to ACC & ASNC guidelines of 2009.
A Case of Complete Heart Block Due to Intentional Ingestion of Plant Extracts
Authors: Prasad K. , Lavanya K.
Published: June 2018

Cardiac glycosides are widely available in botanic products and other naturally occurring substances worldwide. Accidental consumption of it leads to digitalis toxicity with varied systemic manifestations. We describe a case of consumption of extract of leaves of the Indian rubber vine plant (Crytostegia grandi flora) which led to gastrointestinal, cardiac, electrolyte, and hematological disturbances.
Clinical and Electroencephalographic Correlates in Pediatric Cardiac Arrest: Experience at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Park Jun , Brooks Garrett
Published: June 2018

Pediatric cardiac arrest is a significant cause of death and neurologic disability; however, there is a paucity of literature specifically evaluating the utility of prognostic factors in the pediatric population. This retrospective chart review examines clinical, laboratory, and electroencephalographic (EEG) data in children following cardiopulmonary arrest to better characterize findings that may inform prognosis. Pre-arrest clinical characteristics, resuscitation details, and post-arrest hospital course variables were analyzed and neurologic outcome was determined using the Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category scale. Forty-one patients were identified who had cardiac arrest from March, 2011 to January, 2015. Duration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (p = 0.013), out-of-hospital arrest (p = 0.005), arterial pH (0.014), arterial lactate (0.004), lack of pupil reactivity to light (p < 0.001), absent motor response to noxious stimuli (p < 0.001), and absent brainstem reflexes (p < 0.001) were all predictors of poor neurologic outcome. EEG background suppression (p = 0.005) was associated with poor outcome. Nine patients had electrographically recorded seizures, which began up to 1 week following cardiac arrest. Two patients (4.9%) experienced post-anoxic myoclonic status epilepticus and both had a poor outcome.
Evidence and morality in harm-reduction debates: can we use value-neutral arguments to achieve value-driven goals?
Authors: Zampini Giulia Federica
Published: June 2018

It is common to argue that politicians make selective use of evidence to tacitly reinforce their moral positions, but all stakeholders combine facts and values to produce and use research for policy. The drug policy debate has largely been characterised in terms of an opposition between evidence and politics. Focusing on harm reduction provides useful ground to discuss a further opposition proposed by evidence advocates, that between evidence and morality. Can evidence sway individuals from their existing moral positions, so as to “neutralise” morality? And if not, then should evidence advocates change the way in which they frame their arguments? To address these questions, analysis of N = 27 interviews with stakeholders actively involved in drug policy and harm reduction debates in England, UK and New South Wales, Australia, was conducted. Participants’ accounts suggest that although evidence can help focus discussions away from values and principles, exposure to evidence does not necessarily change deeply held views. Whether stakeholders decide to go with the evidence or not seems contingent on whether they embrace a view of evidence as secular faith; a view that is shaped by experience, politics, training, and role. And yet, morality, values, and emotions underpin all stakeholders’ views, motivating their commitment to drug policy and harm reduction. Evidence advocates might thus benefit from devising strategies to morally and emotionally engage audiences. This paper aims to develop better tools for analysing the role of morality in decision-making. Using tools from disciplines such as moral psychology is relevant to the study of the politics of evidence-based policymaking.