bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peptide‐Conjugated Nano‐Drug Delivery System to Improve Synergistic Molecular Chemotherapy for Colon Carcinoma
Authors: Rayappan Kathirvel , Murugan Chandran , Sundarraj Shenbagamoorthy , Lara Roberto Portillo , Kannan Soundarapandian
Published: September 2017

The biofunctional significance of hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) could be used as nano‐reservoirs. Here in the β‐sitosterol loaded into the hollow core and the cisplatin substituted with the carboxylic group of poly lactic acid (PLA)‐ polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the pore walls of HMSNs. Subsequently, the tumour biomarker somatostatin peptide (3207‐86) conjugated to Methyl polyethylene glycol 2‐maleimide ethyl ether (Meo‐PEG‐Mal) for the selective targeting of tumour cells. The surface modified HMSNs enable the internalization of cisplatin via chlorine ion release, through the cleavage of the coordinated interaction. Further, the β sitosterol release is dependent on the discharge rate of cisplatin and the pH of the cell microenvironment. The engineered nano‐drug delivery system could be used to selectively target cancer cells and deliver multimodal therapeutic schemes for the treatment of colon cancer
Synthesis of 1,128‐Octacosahectanediol and Its Sharp Thermoresponse in Solution with Concomitant Structural Change
Authors: Saito Nozomi , Shinozaki Yasuhiro , Shigeno Masanori , Mushiake Kumiko , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: September 2017

1,128‐Octacosahectanediol, which has an extremely long polymethylene chain, was synthesized. The heptaene C128 intermediate with both ends silylated was synthesized by the sequence of the Wittig reaction and acetal deprotection in a two‐directional manner. The unsaturated compound was converted to a saturated disilyl ether by homogeneous hydrogenation under toluene reflux, and was subsequently desilylated under THF/toluene/12 M HCl refluxing conditions to yield a C128 diol. High‐temperature conditions were employed to dissolve the substrates, and cooling liberated the products, which were isolated by filtration. 1,128‐Octacosahectanediol showed a sharp increase in solubility in organic solvents with temperature changes of 10 K along with thermal hysteresis, which was ascribed to the concomitant structural change. The extended structure in the solid state was converted to a globular structure in solution, which involved large enthalpic loss and entropic gain.
Direct Synthesis of Sulphonates of Alcohol, Oxyma‐O‐sulphonates and Oxime‐O‐sulphonates under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Chandra Jyoti , Chaudhuri Rohit , Manne Srinivasa Rao , Mondal Sandip , Mandal Bhubaneswar
Published: September 2017

We describe a new halogen and metal free microwave assisted industrially feasible environment friendly method for the synthesis of sulphonate esters from substituted benzene sulphonic acids by direct condensation. This high yielding method has been applied to various primary and secondary alcohols and oximes especially Oxyma to attach with sulphonic acids. Reactions have completed within 5 min at 120 °C under microwave irradiation. This atom economic approach is green as only generated byproduct is water and it represents a substantial improvement over previously described methods for the purpose. Use of silica gel improved the yield for some substrates. Possibility of scale up of the reaction is demonstrated. Mechanistic investigation of silica aided reaction revealed two novel intermediates.
Manganese Dioxide Nanosheets‐Induced Oxidation of Dopamine for Colorimetric Sensing of Hydrogen Sulfide
Authors: He Yi , Cai Yanhua , Huang Wei
Published: September 2017

Here we report a selective and highly sensitive colorimetric sensing system based on MnO2 nanosheets and dopamine for the detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). MnO2 nanosheets show a capability for direct oxidation of dopamine to aminochrome, producing a strong UV‐vis absorption at 470 nm and accompanying a distinct color change from colorless to orange. When H2S is present in the sensing system, it can effectively inhibit the redox reaction between MnO2 nanosheets and dopamine. In this case, the concentration of the aminochrome in the reaction solution significantly decreases, and the color of the solution gradually fades with the increasing of the concentration of H2S. The solution turns colorless when the concentration of H2S exceeds 75 μM. The dynamic range of the calibration curve is 0.2‐125 μM, and the limit of detection is estimated to be 0.08 μM at a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3:1.
Ordinal optimization theory to solve large‐scale power system unit commitment
Authors: Xie Min , Zhu Yanhan , Ke Shaojia , Du Yuxin , Liu Mingbo
Published: September 2017

The complexity of the multiperiod dynamic unit commitment problem makes it difficult or even unviable to find the global optimal solution. Ordinal optimization provides a simulation‐based approach suitable for solving this kind of problem. It uses crude models and rough estimates to derive a small set of unit commitment schemes for which simulations are necessary and worthwhile to find good enough solutions with drastically reduced computational burden. The 10–100 thermal units standard test example and the case of an actual provincial power system with 128 units verify the feasibility of ordinal optimization to solve the large‐scale dynamic unit commitment problem. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Uncooled infrared focal plane arrays
Authors: Kimata Masafumi
Published: September 2017

After a long incubation period, commercialization of uncooled infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPAs) is progressing rapidly. In the high‐end field, pixel pitch reduction is approaching the diffraction limit of optics, and full high‐definition IRFPAs have been reported. On the other hand, low‐cost infrared array sensors (IRASs), which are small‐format IRFPAs for non‐imaging applications, are finding new applications in areas such as home appliances. This paper reviews the basics of and advances in uncooled IRFPAs, including IRASs. Some emerging trends in business and applications are also discussed.
Staging in bipolar disorder: from theoretical framework to clinical utility
Authors: Berk Michael , Post Robert , Ratheesh Aswin , Gliddon Emma , Singh Ajeet , Vieta Eduard , Carvalho Andre F. , Ashton Melanie M. , Berk Lesley , Cotton Susan M. , McGorry Patrick D. , Fernandes Brisa S. , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Dodd Seetal
Published: September 2017

Illness staging is widely utilized in several medical disciplines to help predict course or prognosis, and optimize treatment. Staging models in psychiatry in general, and bipolar disorder in particular, depend on the premise that psychopathology moves along a predictable path: an at‐risk or latency stage, a prodrome progressing to a first clinical threshold episode, and one or more recurrences with the potential to revert or progress to late or end‐stage manifestations. The utility and validity of a staging model for bipolar disorder depend on its linking to clinical outcome, treatment response and neurobiological measures. These include progressive biochemical, neuroimaging and cognitive changes, and potentially stage‐specific differences in response to pharmacological and psychosocial treatments. Mechanistically, staging models imply the presence of an active disease process that, if not remediated, can lead to neuroprogression, a more malignant disease course and functional deterioration. Biological elements thought to be operative in bipolar disorder include a genetic diathesis, physical and psychic trauma, epigenetic changes, altered neurogenesis and apoptosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Many available agents, such as lithium, have effects on these targets. Staging models also suggest the utility of stage‐specific treatment approaches that may not only target symptom reduction, but also impede illness neuroprogression. These treatment approaches range from prevention for at‐risk individuals, to early intervention strategies for prodromal and newly diagnosed individuals, complex combination therapy for rapidly recurrent illness, and palliative‐type approaches for those at chronic, late stages of illness. There is hope that prompt initiation of potentially disease modifying therapies may preclude or attenuate the cognitive and structural changes seen in the later stages of bipolar disorder. The aims of this paper are to: a) explore the current level of evidence supporting the descriptive staging of the syndromal pattern of bipolar disorder; b) describe preliminary attempts at validation; c) make recommendations for the direction of further studies; and d) provide a distillation of the potential clinical implications of staging in bipolar disorder within a broader transdiagnostic framework.
Heterologous expression of a β-d-glucosidase in Caldicellulosiruptor bescii has a surprisingly modest effect on the activity of the exoproteome and growth on crystalline cellulose
Authors: Kim Sun-Ki , Chung Daehwan , Himmel Michael E , Bomble Yannick J , Westpheling Janet
Published: September 2017

Members of the genus Caldicellulosiruptor are the most thermophilic cellulolytic bacteria so far described and are capable of efficiently utilizing complex lignocellulosic biomass without conventional pretreatment. Previous studies have shown that accumulation of high concentrations of cellobiose and, to a lesser extent, cellotriose, inhibits cellulase activity both in vivo and in vitro and high concentrations of cellobiose are present in C. bescii fermentations after 90 h of incubation. For some cellulolytic microorganisms, β-d-glucosidase is essential for the efficient utilization of cellobiose as a carbon source and is an essential enzyme in commercial preparations for efficient deconstruction of plant biomass. In spite of its ability to grow efficiently on crystalline cellulose, no extracellular β-d-glucosidase or its GH1 catalytic domain could be identified in the C. bescii genome. To investigate whether the addition of a secreted β-d-glucosidase would improve growth and cellulose utilization by C. bescii, we cloned and expressed a thermostable β-d-glucosidase from Acidothermus cellulolyticus (Acel_0133) in C. bescii using the CelA signal sequence for protein export. The effect of this addition was modest, suggesting that β-d-glucosidase is not rate limiting for cellulose deconstruction and utilization by C. bescii.
Psychosocial Implications of Living with Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia in Adulthood
Authors: Richardson Ebony , Spinks Catherine , Davis Andrew , Turner Christian , Atherton John , McGaughran Julie , Semsarian Christopher , Ingles Jodie
Published: September 2017

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare inherited arrhythmogenic disease with a high risk of sudden cardiac death. The impact on health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL) and psychosocial outcomes is not known. We sought to provide the first description of HR‐QoL and psychosocial wellbeing of adults with CPVT, parents of affected children and at‐risk relatives. Participants were recruited through the Australian Genetic Heart Disease Registry and invited to complete a cross‐sectional survey comprising a number of validated scales and open‐ended questions. Thirty‐five participants completed surveys (response rate 65%), including 19 with CPVT, 10 unaffected parents of a child with CPVT, and 7 at‐risk relatives (one participant considered patient and parent). Young patients <40 years were significantly more likely to report anxiety (p = 0.04), depression (p = 0.03) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (p = 0.02) compared to older CPVT patients. Further, young patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) reported significantly worse device‐related distress (p = 0.04) and shock anxiety (p = 0.003). Patients with a genetic diagnosis had worse psychological adaptation than those patients without a gene result. Parents perceived their affected children to have poor quality of life across all subdomains compared to healthy age‐matched children, however quality of life of parents and at‐risk relatives was comparable to population norms. Ongoing psychosocial care is required for young people with CPVT. Those with an ICD and/or undergoing genetic testing may require additional support. The challenges of CPVT management should extend beyond the clinical and genetic aspects of care to incorporate greater psychosocial support, and further reinforces the need for a multidisciplinary approach to care.
Multifetal Pregnancy Reduction
Authors: Dadhwal Vatsla , Khoiwal Kavita
Published: September 2017

Multifetal pregnancy increases maternal, fetal and neonatal complications, most important being preterm delivery and complications of prematurity. Fetal reduction is a procedure for reducing the number of fetuses to a more manageable number. Reduction of triplet or higher order pregnancy is acceptable and the ending number is usually two. Fetal reduction reduces the risk of preterm delivery. Intracardiac/intrathoracic KCl is used for fetal reduction in multichorionic pregnancy. This is not a viable option in monochorionic pregnancy, where vaso-occlusive methods are used.
The effects of self‐efficacy in bifurcating the relationship of perceived benefit and cost with condom use among adolescents: A cusp catastrophe modeling analysis
Authors: Xu Yunan , Chen Xinguang , Yu Bin , Joseph Verlin , Stanton Bonita
Published: September 2017

This study tested the complex relationship among the perceived benefit from and cost of condom use, self‐efficacy and condom use among adolescents as a nonlinear dynamic process. Participants were 12th graders in public Bahamian high schools who reported having had sex and frequency of condom use. Results revealed that the perceived benefit and perceived cost as asymmetry variables were significantly associated with condom use (p < 0.001) after controlling for covariates. The association was bifurcated by the variable self‐efficacy (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the cusp model was better than linear and logistic regression models in predicting the dynamic changes in condom use behavior, judged by the AIC and BIC, and R2 criteria. These results suggest that adolescent condom use may follow a nonlinear rather than linear dynamic process. Emphasizing bifurcation variables such as self‐efficacy that promote sudden change could be essential to strengthen current evidence‐based intervention programs in encouraging condom use.
Neural activity during the viewing of emotional pictures in veterans with pathological anger and aggression
Authors: Heesink L. , Gladwin T.E. , Vink M. , van Honk J. , Kleber R. , Geuze E.
Published: September 2017

Anger and aggression are common mental health problems after military deployment. Anger and aggression have been associated with abnormalities in subcortical and cortical levels of the brain and their connectivity. Here, we tested brain activation during the processing of emotional stimuli in military veterans with and without anger and aggression problems. Thirty military veterans with anger and aggression problems and 29 veterans without a psychiatric diagnosis (all males) participated in this study. During an fMRI scan 32 negative, 32 positive and 32 neutral pictures from the International Affective Picture System were presented in intermixed order. The Aggression group showed heightened activity in brain areas including the supplementary motor area, the cingulum and the parietal cortex, in response to stimuli, regardless of category. Furthermore, the Aggression group showed stronger connectivity between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and the amygdala during the viewing of negative stimuli, and weaker connectivity between dACC and medial prefrontal cortex during the viewing of positive stimuli. Veterans with anger and aggression problems showed enhanced brain response to all stimuli during the task, irrespective of valence and they rated the pictures more likely as negative. We take this to indicate enhanced preparation for action and attention to the presentation of stimuli that could prove to be threatening. Further, group differences in functional connectivity involving the dACC reveal abnormal processing of stimuli with negative and positive valence. In sum, the results point towards a bias towards an enhanced sensitivity to perceived or potential threat in aggression.
Influence of the application of enemas with oily extract of curcumin (Curcuma longa) on the tissue content of neutral and acidic mucins in the colonic mucosa without fecal stream
Authors: Martinez Carlos Augusto Real , Oliveira Vitor Piquera de , Campos Fabio Guilherme , Kanno Danilo Toshio , Fernandez Oscar Orlando Araya , Kadri Caled Jaoudat , Pereira José Aires
Published: September 2017

Purpose To verify if the application of enemas containing oily extracts of curcumin preserves the tissue content of mucins in the glands of the colonic mucosa without fecal stream.

Method Thirty-six Wistar rats were submitted to diversion of the fecal stream by proximal colostomy and distal mucous fistula. The animals were subdivided into three groups, and accordingly received enemas with saline and oily extract of curcumin at concentrations of 50 mg/kg/day or 200 mg/kg/day. After two or four weeks of intervention, the irrigated colic segments were removed. Neutral and acidic mucins were identified by Periodic-acid Schiff and Alcian-Blue techniques, respectively. The content of both mucin subtypes was measured by computerized morphometry. Mann–Whitney test was used to analyze the results, adopting a significance level of 5% (p ≤ 0.05).

Results There was an increase in the tissue content of neutral mucins in animals treated with curcumin at a concentration of 50 mg/kg/day for four weeks, whereas in the group treated with 200 mg/kg/day there was an increase independent of the time of intervention. The content of acidic mucins increased in animals treated with 200 mg/kg/day regardless of the intervention time, whereas in those treated with 50 mg/kg/day an increase was observed only after four weeks.

Conclusion Enemas with curcumin preserve the content of neutral and acidic mucins in the colonic epithelium without fecal stream.
Improving Functional Mobility in Children and Adolescents Undergoing Treatment for Non–Central Nervous System Cancers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wacker Katherine , Tanner Lynn , Ovans Jessica , Mason Jeffrey , Gilchrist Laura
Published: September 2017

Background

Childhood cancers and subsequent treatments can leave survivors with impairments that may lead to decreased physical performance. Rehabilitation can be an important component of promoting improved physical function in children and adolescents undergoing treatment for cancer.

Objective

To review and synthesize evidence for nonsurgical, nonpharmacologic, rehabilitation interventions for children and adolescents undergoing treatment for non‐central nervous system cancers aimed at improving their physical impairments and functional mobility limitations.

Design

A systematic review of the literature, from January 1996 to October 2016, on interventions for improving functional mobility and physical impairments in pediatric patients on treatment or recently off treatment for a non‐central nervous system cancer.

Setting

Not applicable.

Methods

Included articles were reviewed for quality. Evidence for each impairment area was analyzed.

Main Outcome Measures

Not applicable.

Results

A total of 22 articles met our inclusion criteria. Only 7 randomized controlled trials were identified, and most studies had few subjects. More than one half of the existing clinical trials were on exercise or programs to increase strength and physical activity, with some evidence to support improvements in strength but mixed evidence for improving physical activity. Relatively few assessed other interventions used in rehabilitation such as orthotics, neuromuscular re‐education, and functional training.

Conclusion

The body of literature describing nonsurgical and nonpharmacological interventions for decreased functional mobility and its related impairments is only beginning to emerge as few studies of high quality were found in the literature. Rehabilitation researchers and clinicians need to collaborate to produce the multi‐site trials that will be needed to best serve these children.
Teatcups with automatic valves in machine milking of goats
Authors: Manzur Alberto , Díaz José Ramón , Fernández Nemesio , Balasch Sebastià , Peris Cristòfol
Published: September 2017

This Research Paper addresses the hypothesis that using teatcups with automatic valves, without cutting off the vacuum prior to cluster removal, could increases the risk of mastitis and affect other milking variables on goats. A first trial used 46 intramammary infection (IMI)-free goats that had been milked with normal teatcups (without automatic valves) during a pre-experimental period of 8 ± 2 d postpartum. These animals were divided into two groups (n = 23), randomly assigning each group to teatcups with automatic valves (teatcups A) or without automatic valves (teatcups B) for a 20-week experimental period. During this period, several strategies were applied to increase teat exposure to pathogens in both experimental groups. In the first eight weeks of the experimental period, the new IMI rate per gland was significantly higher (P < 0·05) in the group of animals milked with teatcups A (6 of 46; 13%) than in the group milked with teatcups B (1 of 46; 2%). However, throughout the rest of the experimental period the same number of glands appeared with new IMI (n = 7) in both animal groups. SCC was higher in goats milked with teatcups A, but no significant differences were found in the remaining variables (milk production and composition, frequency of liner slips + teatcup fall-off). In a second experiment, in a crossover design (54 goats in fourth month of lactation, 2 treatments – teatcups A and B – in 2 experimental periods each lasting 1 week), no differences were observed in total milk, average milk flow, total milking time or teat thickness changes after milking between both teatcups. However, teatcups A worsened slightly the maximum milk flow. We concluded that the use of teatcups with automatic valves, without cutting off the vacuum prior to cluster removal, increases the risk of mastitis on goat livestock farms.
Geographical distribution and conservation status of an endemic insular mammal: the Vulnerable fish-eating batMyotis vivesi
Authors: Herrera M. L. Gerardo , Flores-Martínez José Juan , Sánchez-Cordero Víctor
Published: September 2017

Endemic insular species are particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic threats. The fish-eating batMyotis vivesiis restricted mainly to the islands of the Gulf of California in Mexico and although several aspects of its biology have been studied there are no recent accounts of its current distribution. We conducted several expeditions during 2001–2016 to verify the current geographical distribution of this bat, and to record the presence of introduced predators. We identified the localities in which maternity colonies occur, estimated the size of the bat population on Partida Norte Island in 2003, and monitored bat presence on this island during 2004–2016. We found fish-eating bats on 36 islands and maternity colonies on 19 islands. Introduced ratsRattus rattusor catsFelis catuswere captured on seven islands where the bats were present, and on five islands where they were absent. We estimated a population of c. 30,000 fish-eating bats in May 2003 and we confirmed the species’ presence on Partida Norte Island during 2004–2016. Based on the information compiled from our surveys and previous studies, we discuss the adequacy of the species’ current categorization as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, and its conservation status conferred by Mexican conservation authorities.
COMPARISON OF METHODS FOR ESTIMATING CONTEMPORARY COSTS: AN APPLICATION TO LIVER TRANSPLANTATION IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
Authors: Singh Jeshika , Longworth Louise
Published: September 2017

Objectives: Our study addresses the important issue of estimating treatment costs from historical data. It is a problem frequently faced by health technology assessment analysts. We compared four approaches used to estimate current costs when good quality contemporary data are not available using liver transplantation as an example.

Methods: First, the total cost estimates extracted for patients from a cohort study, conducted in the 1990s, were inflated using a published inflation multiplier. Second, resource use estimates from the cohort study were extracted for hepatitis C patients and updated using current unit costs. Third, expert elicitation was carried out to identify changes in clinical practice over time and quantify current resource use. Fourth, routine data on resource use were obtained from National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT).

Results: The first two methods did not account for changes in clinical practice. Also the first was not specific to hepatitis patients. The use of experts confirmed significant changes in clinical practice. However, the quantification of resource use using experts is challenging as clinical specialists may not have a complete overview of clinical pathway. The NHSBT data are the most accurate reflection of transplantation and posttransplantation phase; however, data were not available for the whole pathway of care. The best estimate of total cost, combining NHSBT data and expert elicitation, is £121,211.

Discussion: Observational data from routine care are potentially the most reliable reflection of current resource use. Efforts should be made to make such data readily available and accessible to researchers. Expert elicitation provided reasonable estimates.
Effaced Enigmata
Authors: GILLETT GRANT
Published: September 2017

Severe head injury or brain injury presents clinical neuroscientists with a unique challenge. Based on an objective assessment of cognitive and neurological function, it is sometimes hard to recognize our patients as members of our moral community (actually or potentially) but we treat them as if that were is the case, and, therefore, as if they need rescuing. Thus their existences as enigmata—beings who may or may not reveal themselves to us through social and personal function realized in conversations and relationships—are in doubt. However, the objective mode of assessing individuals and their mental functions needs to be bracketed here, as we reconnect with them and offer them our help in the restorative journey that they need to take. The journey has many tortuous paths comprising it, not the least of which is the existential question of whether the damaged human being with whom we are engaged actually can be restored to a meaningful life. A negative answer to that question can bring the whole process to an abrupt end. Neuroscience cannot answer some of these questions, as they are ethical. Is this a life worth living and are our commitments going to go the distance that must be traversed here. Therefore, this is an area where ethics take priority over neuroscience, and it is on our ethical response that everything else hinges. Understanding the light this throws on the nature of a human being takes us to the heart of the value of every human being and the nexus of mutuality that is the moral community.
Practical Implications of the Minimally Conscious State Diagnosis in Adults
Authors: KREITMAIR KAROLA V. , KRUSE KATHERINE E.
Published: September 2017

This article addresses questions surrounding the minimally conscious state (MCS) from the perspective of adult clinical ethics. It describes the background of the MCS diagnosis, analyzes phenomenological ambiguities inherent in the nature of MCS, and raises epistemological concerns surrounding its diagnosis. It argues that in many cases, the burdens of prolonging treatment for people who have sustained certain severe brain injuries (SBI) outweigh the benefits, even if they are in or have the prospect of entering into MCS. It also argues that often such long-term measures are problematic from the perspective of patient preferences and stewardship of resources. Consequently, it suggests that the delineation of MCS as a distinct neurological state, along with research that seeks to expand how MCS is diagnosed, poses ethical difficulties for families and providers making decisions for affected patients.
Stable Isotopes in Paleoclimate Reanalysis
Authors: Steig Eric , Anderson David , Hakim Gregory
Published: September 2017

Second Annual Workshop of the Last Millennium Reanalysis Project; Friday Harbor, Washington, 25–26 October 2016
NASA Fleet Helps Predict Space Weather
Authors: Witman Sarah
Published: September 2017

Using 8 years of data collected via spacecraft, scientists produce hindcasts of plasma eruptions from the Sun. These will help improve forecasts.
MKP-1 negative regulates Staphylococcus aureus induced inflammatory responses in Raw264.7 cells: roles of PKA-MKP-1 pathway and enhanced by rolipram
Authors: Pan Yiqing , Xu Chen , Pan Zhixing K.
Published: September 2017

MAP phosphatases (MKP)-1 acts as an important regulator of innate immune response through a mechanism of control and attention both MAPK and NF-κB molecules during bacterial infection. However, the regulatory role of MKP-1 in the interplay between MAPK and NFκB pathway molecules is still not fully understood. In present study, we showed a direct interactions of p38, ERK or IκBα with MKP-1, and demonstrated that MKP-1 was a pivotal feedback control for both MAP kinases and NF-κB pathway in response to S. aureus. In addition, we found that rolipram had anti-inflammatory activity and repressed IκBα activation induced by S. aureus via PKA-MKP-1 pathway. Our report also demonstrated that PKA-cα can directly bind to IκBα upon S. aureus stimulation, which influenced the downstream signaling of PKA pathway, including altered the expression of MKP-1. These results presented a novel mechanism of PKA and IκB pathway, which may be targeted for treating S. aureus infection.
Near room temperature chemical vapor deposition of graphene with diluted methane and molten gallium catalyst
Authors: Fujita Jun-ichi , Hiyama Takaki , Hirukawa Ayaka , Kondo Takahiro , Nakamura Junji , Ito Shin-ichi , Araki Ryosuke , Ito Yoshikazu , Takeguchi Masaki , Pai Woei Wu
Published: September 2017

Direct growth of graphene integrated into electronic devices is highly desirable but difficult due to the nominal ~1000 °C chemical vapor deposition (CVD) temperature, which can seriously deteriorate the substrates. Here we report a great reduction of graphene CVD temperature, down to 50 °C on sapphire and 100 °C on polycarbonate, by using dilute methane as the source and molten gallium (Ga) as catalysts. The very low temperature graphene synthesis is made possible by carbon attachment to the island edges of pre-existing graphene nuclei islands, and causes no damages to the substrates. A key benefit of using molten Ga catalyst is the enhanced methane absorption in Ga at lower temperatures; this leads to a surprisingly low apparent reaction barrier of ~0.16 eV below 300 °C. The faster growth kinetics due to a low reaction barrier and a demonstrated low-temperature graphene nuclei transfer protocol can facilitate practical direct graphene synthesis on many kinds of substrates down to 50–100 °C. Our results represent a significant progress in reducing graphene synthesis temperature and understanding its mechanism.
A fully integrated microfluidic platform for highly sensitive analysis of immunochemical parameters
Authors: Lutz Sascha , Lopez-Calle Eloisa , Espindola Pamela , Boehm Christoph , Brueckner Thorsten , Spinke Juergen , Marcinowski Moritz , Keller Thomas , Tgetgel Armin , Herbert Nicolas , Fischer Thomas , Beiersdorf Erik
Published: September 2017

A fully integrated cartridge for highly sensitive immunochemical analysis of cardiac markers with new microfluidic functionalities is presented.
Fabrication of MgO–rGO hybrid catalysts with a sandwich structure for enhanced ethylbenzene dehydrogenation performance
Authors: Diao Jiangyong , Zhang Yajie , Zhang Jiayun , Wang Jia , Liu Hongyang , Su Dang Sheng
Published: September 2017

MgO–rGO hybrid catalysts with a sandwich structure have been successfully prepared and show obviously boosted reactivity in the direct dehydrogenation of ethylbenzene.
Neural differentiation on aligned fullerene C60nanowhiskers
Authors: Hsieh Fu-Yu , Shrestha Lok Kumar , Ariga Katsuhiko , Hsu Shan-hui
Published: September 2017

Highly-aligned fullerene nanowhiskers (C60NWs) are prepared by a modified liquid–liquid interfacial precipitation method. Neural stem cells on the aligned C60NWs are oriented and have a high capacity to differentiate into mature neurons.
High-pressure discovery of β-NiBi
Authors: Powderly K. M. , Clarke S. M. , Amsler M. , Wolverton C. , Malliakas C. D. , Meng Y. , Jacobsen S. D. , Freedman D. E.
Published: September 2017

We present the discovery of a new high-pressure phase in the Ni–Bi system, β-NiBi.
Synthesis of highly c-axis-oriented ZnO thin films using novel laser-enhanced electrospray CVD under atmospheric pressure
Authors: Suehiro Satoshi , Kimura Teiichi , Yokoe Daisaku , Takahashi Seiji
Published: September 2017

Novel process for synthesizing c-axis-oriented ZnO films by novel laser enhanced electrospray CVD.
Acceptor properties of amino groups in aminobenzene crystals: study from the energetic viewpoint
Authors: Shishkina Svitlana V. , Konovalova Irina S. , Shishkin Oleg V. , Boyko Alexander N.
Published: September 2017

The role of the N–H⋯N hydrogen bonds in the organization of the crystals of the aniline and diaminobenzenes has been studied.
Doping disorder and the reduction–doping process in LiSrPO4
Authors: Santos Ricardo D. S. , Rezende Marcos V. dos S.
Published: September 2017

A systematic theoretical study was performed on trivalent and divalent rare-earth (RE) dopant ions in the LiSrPO4 structure, using atomistic simulations based on lattice energy minimization.
Electronic structure and charge transport properties of atomic carbon wires
Authors: Lambropoulos K. , Simserides C.
Published: September 2017

Atomic carbon wires represent the ultimate one-atom-thick one-dimensional structure.
Quantum effect enhanced magnetism of C-doped phosphorene nanoribbons: first-principles calculations
Authors: Cai Xiaolin , Niu Chunyao , He Yuan-Yao , Wang Jianjun , Zhu Zhili , Zhang Liwei , Jia Yu
Published: September 2017

Manipulating magnetism of low-dimensional materials is of great importance for their practical applications.
Multimolecular assemblies on high surface area metal oxides and their role in interfacial energy and electron transfer
Authors: Wang Jamie C. , Hill Sean P. , Dilbeck Tristan , Ogunsolu Omotola O. , Banerjee Tanmay , Hanson Kenneth
Published: September 2017

High surface area metal oxides offer a unique substrate for the assembly of multiple molecular components at an interface.
Photocatalytic coupling of amines to imidazoles using a Mo–ZnIn2S4 catalyst
Authors: Wang Min , Li Lihua , Lu Jianmin , Luo Nengchao , Zhang Xiaochen , Wang Feng
Published: September 2017

A new route to the synthesis of substituted imidazoles was developed via photocyclization of amines over Mo–ZnIn2S4 under visible light irradiation.
Synthesis of isosorbide: an overview of challenging reactions
Authors: Dussenne C. , Delaunay T. , Wiatz V. , Wyart H. , Suisse I. , Sauthier M.
Published: September 2017

This review gives an overview of the catalysts and technologies developed for the synthesis of isosorbide, a platform molecule derived from biomass (sorbitol and cellulose).
An elastomeric micropillar platform for the study of protrusive forces in hyphal invasion
Authors: Tayagui Ayelen , Sun Yiling , Collings David A. , Garrill Ashley , Nock Volker
Published: September 2017

We introduce a platform capable of quantifying magnitude and direction of protrusive forces exerted by individual tips of hyphal microorganisms using elastomeric micropillars.
Toward breath analysis on a chip for disease diagnosis using semiconductor-based chemiresistors: recent progress and future perspectives
Authors: Yoon Ji-Wook , Lee Jong-Heun
Published: September 2017

Semiconductor gas sensors using metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, graphene-based materials, and metal chalcogenides have been reviewed from the viewpoint of the sensitive, selective, and reliable detection of exhaled biomarker gases, and perspectives/strategies to realize breath analysis on a chip for disease diagnosis are discussed and suggested.
A novel methodology for fabrication of Ag–polypyrrole core–shell nanosphere using microemulsion system and evaluation of its antibacterial application
Authors: Salabat Alireza , Mirhoseini Farid , Arjomandzadegan Mohammad , Jiryaei Elham
Published: September 2017

A novel methodology based on microemulsion system was used to prepare Ag–PPy core–shell nanocomposite for antibacterial application
A convenient synthesis of 1-aryl-1H-1,2,3-triazoles from aliphatic substrates
Authors: Wang Qiang , Shi Xiaonan , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: September 2017

A convenient synthesis of 1-aryl-1H-1,2,3-triazoles via the one-pot cascade reactions of alkynes with aliphatic azides and allenic ketones is presented.
Separation performance of dithienyl benzothiadiazole-based stationary phases for capillary gas chromatography
Authors: Peng Jianlin , Sun Tao , Wu Lianqian , Qi Meiling , Huang Xuebin
Published: September 2017

Two new TBT-based stationary phases (TBT-AA, TBT-AC12) exhibited high-resolution performance for aliphatic and aromatic isomers.
The modular synthesis of multivalent functionalised glycodendrons for the detection of lectins including DC-SIGN
Authors: Munneke Stefan , Kodar Kristel , Painter Gavin F. , Stocker Bridget L. , Timmer Mattie S. M.
Published: September 2017

A modular approach towards glycoconjugate probes allows for the versatile synthesis of dendrons with reporter groups and glycans of choice.
Schottky defects induced effects on the behaviors of high velocity shock compression of MgO
Authors: Zhang Chuanguo , Wang Xianlong , Zhang Jie , Yang Kaishuai , Cheng Ya , Zeng Zhi , Zhou Xianming , Lin Haiqing
Published: September 2017

A double yielding phenomenon occurs for shock wave propagation, i.e., homogeneous nucleation of dislocations accompanied by vacancy emission of dislocations.
Impact of chocolate liquor on vascular lesions in apoE-knockout mice
Authors: Yazdekhasti Narges , Brandsch Corinna , Hirche Frank , Kühn Julia , Schloesser Anke , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Huebbe Patricia , Wolffram Siegfried , Rimbach Gerald , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: September 2017

Cocoa polyphenols are thought to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Thus, cocoa-containing foods may have significant health benefits. Here, we studied the impact of chocolate liquor on vascular lesion development and plaque composition in a mouse model of atherosclerosis. Apolipoprotein E (apoE)-knockout mice were assigned to two groups and fed a Western diet that contained 250 g/kg of either chocolate liquor or a polyphenol-free isoenergetic control paste for 16 weeks. In addition to fat, protein, and fibers, the chocolate liquor contained 2 g/kg of polyphenols. Compared with the control group, mice fed the chocolate liquor had larger plaque areas in the descending aorta and aortic root, which were attributed to a higher mass of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and collagen. Vascular lipid deposits and calcification areas did not differ between the two groups. The aortic tissue level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) mRNA was 5-fold higher in the mice fed chocolate liquor than in the control mice. Chocolate-fed mice exhibited an increased hepatic saturated to polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio than the controls. Although the chocolate liquor contained 14 µg/kg of vitamin D2, the chocolate liquor-fed mice did not have measurable 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 in the serum. These mice even showed a 25% reduction in the level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 compared with the control mice. Overall, present data may contribute to our understanding how chocolate constituents can impact vascular lesion development.
Dual‐polarised X‐band patch sub‐array with hybrid feed network for integrated small‐satellite SAR payload
Authors: Zhao X. , Yeo S.P. , Ong L.C.
Published: September 2017

A low‐profile wideband dual‐polarised X‐band patch sub‐array fed by a hybrid series/parallel network is designed for an integrated small‐satellite synthetic aperture radar payload. The experimental results demonstrate that the sub‐array, with 1 × 16 patch radiators, fully covers the targeted 9.65 GHz band with 14 dB bandwidths of 9–10.3 GHz for V‐polarisation (VP) and 9.3–9.95 GHz for H‐polarisation (HP). The isolation between the different feed ports is higher than 36 dB with a peak value of 45 dB. The sub‐array achieves cross‐to‐co‐polarisation ratios of below −32 dB within half‐power beamwidth scopes of 6° for both HP and VP. The sidelobes maintain −24 dB for HP and −20 dB for VP. The average realised gains are around 17 dBi for both polarisations.
Statistics of an autoregressive correlated random walk along a return path
Authors: Hunter A.J. , Connors W.A.
Published: September 2017

A closed‐form analytical solution is derived for the statistical outcome of a random walk along a return path. The random walk is generated from the cumulative sum of correlated samples in a Gaussian‐distributed autoregressive sequence. The outcome exhibits a smaller variance compared with a one‐way path of equivalent length due to cancellation of correlated steps along the return leg. Furthermore, the variance decreases towards zero as the correlation coefficient approaches unity. An example application for this general result is the modelling of cumulative errors in dead‐reckoning navigation systems, e.g. Doppler velocity log‐aided inertial navigation systems used commonly on underwater vehicles. In this particular application, it can be used to express and quantify the natural cancellation of correlated error components between subsequent opposing legs in a typical ‘lawnmower’ survey pattern.
PFC‐based half‐bridge dual‐output converter‐fed four‐phase SRM drive
Authors: Anand Aniket , Singh Bhim
Published: September 2017

This study proposes a power factor correction (PFC)‐based half‐bridge dual‐output converter‐fed switched reluctance motor (SRM) drive for home appliances. The proposed converter provides two equal output voltages to feed a mid‐point converter of a four‐phase SRM. An adjustable speed drive is proposed here such that the speed control is obtained by regulating converter output voltage. The converter is operated in discontinuous conduction mode to obtain inherent PFC at supply side. The sensors requirement is reduced by selecting a voltage follower approach. The performance of proposed drive is evaluated for steady‐sate and dynamic conditions. The input current total harmonic distortion is reduced below 5% as per an IEC standard.
Participation of generating companies in transmission investment in electricity markets
Authors: Karimi Maziar , Pirayesh Abolfazl , Kheradmandi Morteza
Published: September 2017

Transmission service providers (TSPs) have been facing unprecedented challenges in transmission expansion planning. The budget constraints place strict restrictions on transmission expansion projects, thus causing considerable delays in many transmission expansion projects. The inherent uncertainties and non‐linear nature associated with the problem add further complications. To address these issues, a new structure is presented in which the generation companies (GenCos) are involved as investors in transmission expansion projects in the form of joint venture agreements. A cost‐benefit analysis is carried out to seek the most profitable sub‐plan for a GenCo from a number of expansion plans provided by the TSP. The profit function of the GenCo consists of both incremental expected profit earned from energy production and transmission investment return. The uncertainties associated with construction time of generation and transmission expansion projects are included in the proposed cost‐benefit analysis. The method is applied to the IEEE 24‐bus reliability test system.
Compressive sensing‐based robust off‐the‐grid stretch processing
Authors: Ilhan Ihsan , Gurbuz Ali Cafer , Arikan Orhan
Published: September 2017

Classical stretch processing (SP) obtains high range resolution by compressing large bandwidth signals with narrowband receivers using lower rate analogue‐to‐digital converters. SP achieves the resolution of the large bandwidth signal by focusing into a limited range window, and by deramping in the analogue domain. SP offers moderate data rate for signal processing for high bandwidth waveforms. Furthermore, if the scene in the examined window is sparse, compressive sensing (CS)‐based techniques have the potential to further decrease the required number of measurements. However, CS‐based reconstructions are highly affected by model mismatches such as targets that are off‐the‐grid. This study proposes a sparsity‐based iterative parameter perturbation technique for SP that is robust to targets off‐the‐grid in range or Doppler. The error between reconstructed and actual scenes is measured using Earth mover's distance metric. Performance analyses of the proposed technique are compared with classical CS and SP techniques in terms of data rate, resolution and signal‐to‐noise ratio. It is shown through simulations that the proposed technique offers robust and high‐resolution reconstructions for the same data rate compared with both classical SP‐ and CS‐based techniques.
Evaluation of Factors Affecting Outcome in Growth Hormone–Secreting Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Padwal Amit , Gangadharan Jagath , Srinivas Dwarakanath , Somanna Sampath
Published: September 2017

Introduction Management of functioning pituitary adenomas is challenging as they can present with features of an intracranial mass, systemic effects, or a combination of both. In this series, one of the largest in available literature from our country, we have analyzed our experience with surgical management of growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary adenomas and factors influencing their hormonal remission.

Materials and Methods The data of all functional pituitary adenomas operated at our institute from January 2002 to December 2011 were obtained from the case files of these patients. This was studied for various clinical-radiologic features, management stratagems, and clinical and hormonal outcomes.

Results Ninety-three patients of GH-secreting pituitary adenomas with a mean age of 32.7 years were included in the study. Fifty-three (57%) patients had headache at presentation; 46 (49%) had visual complaints, whereas menstrual irregularity was seen in majority of females. Mean GH level was 52.05 ng/mL. Fifty (53%) patients had invasive adenoma; 32 had cavernous sinus extension. Among 80 patients with hormonal follow-up, 43 (53.75%) achieved remission of GH level < 5 ng/mL.

Conclusion In this series, one of the largest of its kind, the main factors influencing unfavorable outcome include macroadenomas, invasiveness, high basal GH > 45 ng/mL levels, and mixed adenomas.
Postherpetic Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Encephalitis after Hemispherotomy in a Patient with Intractable Startle Epilepsy
Authors: Erkent Irem , Gocmen Rahsan , Oguz Kader , Kucuksahin Nalan , Soylemezoglu Figen , Bilginer Burcak , Saygi Serap , Tezer F.
Published: September 2017

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) has been increasingly reported after neurosurgical procedures, mostly after tumor resections in patients with a prior history of HSE. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent high mortality of the disease; however, there are diagnostic difficulties due to nonspecific prodromal symptoms. In addition, anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis has been reported after HSE as an immunological relapse. Here, we report a case of postherpetic anti-NMDAR encephalitis following right hemispherotomy for intractable startle-induced seizures, to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis after postoperative HSE, and the third reported case of hemispherotomy as a curative treatment for startle epilepsy.