bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico‐mechanical properties of nano‐polystyrene‐decorated graphene oxide–epoxy composites
Authors: Khobragade Prashant S , Hansora Dharmesh P , Naik Jitendra B , Njuguna James , Mishra Satyendra
Published: April 2017

Nano‐polystyrene (nPS)‐decorated graphene oxide (GO) hybrid nanostructures were successfully synthesized using stepwise microemulsion polymerization, and characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.XRDandFTIRspectra revealed the existence of a strong interaction betweennPSandGO, which implied that the polymer chains were successfully grafted onto the surface of theGO. ThenPS‐decoratedGOhybrid nanostructures were compounded with epoxy using a hand lay‐up technique, and the effect of thenPS‐decoratedGOon the mechanical, thermal and surface morphological properties of the epoxy matrix was investigated using a universal tensile machine, Izod impact tester, thermogravimetric analysis and contact angle measurements with a goniometer. It was observed that in the epoxy matrix,GOimproved the compatibility. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Output‐feedback adaptive consensus tracking control for a class of high‐order nonlinear multi‐agent systems
Authors: Wang Chenliang , Wen Changyun , Wang Wei , Hu Qinglei
Published: April 2017

In this paper, an output‐feedback adaptive consensus tracking control scheme is proposed for a class of high‐order nonlinear multi‐agent systems. The agents are allowed to have unknown parameters, unknown nonlinearities, and input quantization simultaneously. The desired trajectory to be tracked is available for only a subset of agents, and only the relative outputs and the quantized inputs need to be measured or transmitted as signal exchange among neighbors regardless of the system order. By introducing a kind of high‐gain K‐filters and a smooth function, the effect among agents caused by the unknown nonlinearities is successfully counteracted, and all closed‐loop signals are proved to be globally uniformly bounded. Moreover, it is shown that the tracking errors converge to a residual set that can be made arbitrarily small. Simulation results on robot manipulators are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluating MODIS vegetation products using digital images for quantifying local peatland CO2 gas fluxes
Authors: Gatis Naomi , Anderson Karen , Grand‐Clement Emilie , Luscombe David J. , Hartley Iain P. , Smith David , Brazier Richard E.
Published: April 2017

In peatlands plant growth and senescence affect annual ecosystem carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange, and CO2 fluxes show considerable inter‐annual variability. Phenology is a fundamental indicator of ecosystem carbon dynamics and can be measured from remote sensing systems, but the extent to which satellite products provide useful proxies of peatland vegetation phenology is not well known. Using MODIS vegetation products coupled with field observations of phenology from a basic camera system and measurements of Gross Primary Productivity (GPP) measured using a closed chamber method, we sought to establish the extent to which satellite observations capture phenological processes at a UK peatland site. Daily, true‐colour digital images were captured with a time‐lapse camera (Brinno TLC100) between 23‐Apr‐2013 and 29‐Oct‐2013 and converted into a Green‐Red Vegetation Index (GRVI). These were compared with a range of MODIS vegetation products at various spatial resolutions. We found that vegetation products with finer spatial resolution (<500 m) more accurately captured spring green‐up (e.g. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index 16‐day product), whereas those with 8‐day temporal resolution better captured whole‐season dynamics. The 8‐day Gross Primary Productivity (GPP8) and the fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (fPAR8) products had the strongest daily Pearson's correlations with camera‐derived GRVI (r > 0.90). The camera‐GRVI (P = 0.005, r = 0.98) and MODIS‐GRVI (P = 0.041, r = 0.89) products showed the strongest significant correlations with gross primary productivity measured using static chambers in the field. This work demonstrates that freely available MODIS data captured up to 92% of the daily variation in phenology over an upland peatland. This approach shows great potential for capturing ecosystem carbon dynamics which underpin carbon trading schemes, a budding funding source for peatland restoration projects.
Comparative Study with a Unique Arrangement to Tap Piezoelectric Output to Realize a Self Poled PVDF Based Nanocomposite for Energy Harvesting Applications
Authors: Pusty Manojit , Sharma Alfa , Sinha Lichchhavi , Chaudhary Anjali , Shirage Parasharam
Published: April 2017

In this research paper we present a comparative study on the enhanced piezoelectric performance between Carbon Nanotubes (CNT)/PVDF nanocomposite as well as Iron‐Reduced Graphene Oxide (Fe‐RGO)/PVDF nanocomposite. The enhanced performance is realized by a unique device structure, in which the bottom electrode is physically not in contact with the piezoelectric film until external excitation is applied. FTIR characterization shows the enhancement of polar crystallization phases due to electrostatic interactions in PVDF by the addition of CNT and Fe‐RGO. Raman Spectroscopy indicates the formation of good quality Fe‐RGO nanosheets and also shows high crystalline quality of CNTs. Raman Spectroscopy identifies the interaction between CNTs and Fe‐RGO nanosheets with the polymer that supports the piezoelectric current generation mechanism. Conductivity measurements show that addition of CNT and Fe‐RGO in PVDF increases the conductivity of the nanocomposite films. The CNT/PVDF and Fe‐RGO/PVDF piezoelectric energy harvesting device produced an open circuit output voltage of 2.5 V and 1.2 V respectively. A short circuit rectified current of nearly 700 nA and 300 nA was detected by the CNT/PVDF and Fe‐RGO/PVDF based piezoelectric energy harvesting device.
Effect of Donors on Photophysical, Electrochemical and Photovoltaic Properties of Benzimidazole‐Branched Dyes
Authors: Bodedla Govardhana Babu , Thomas K. R. Justin , Fan Miao‐Syuan , Ho Kuo‐Chuan
Published: April 2017

A series of benzimidazole‐branched organic dyes containing different donors such as carbazole or phenothiazine at C4 and C7 positions of benzimidazole, bithiophene linker and cyanoacrylic acid acceptor are reported. Incorporation of donors increased the molar extinction coefficient of the intramolecular charge transfer absorption peak and contributed to the enhanced photocurrent generation than the control dye without donors. The favourable properties of the new dyes are attributed to the suitable HOMO and LUMO energy levels which facilitated dye regeneration and electron injection from the excited state of the dyes into the conduction band of TiO2. The dye‐sensitized solar cells fabricated using the dyes possessing phenothiazine‐based donor yielded better efficiency than the dyes containing carbazole donor. It is attributed to the effective retardation of electron recombination resulting from the non‐planar molecular geometry of the former. These results suggest that opportunities exist for the improvement of benzimidazole‐based organic dyes.
Understanding ZIF‐8 Performance upon Gas Adsorption by Means of Inelastic Neutron Scattering
Authors: Casco Mirian E. , Fernández‐Catalá Javier , Cheng Yongqiang , Daemen Luke , Ramirez‐Cuesta Anibal J. , Cuadrado‐Collados Carlos , Silvestre‐Albero Joaquin , Ramos‐Fernandez Enrique V.
Published: April 2017

Despite the vast number of publication dealing with ZIF‐8, the performance of this zeolitic MOF upon adsorption is still a matter of debate. The understanding of its adsorption properties its of great importance to define its potential in aplications such as gas separation, sensing and catalytic processes. Using inelastic neutron scattering (INS) upon exposure to different probe molecules we get further insight about the adsortion performance at cryogenic temperatures, including the possible swinging of the imidazolate linkers.
On being an honorary member of Arny’s army: some musings about fungal fermentations, secondary metabolism, and scientific communities
Authors: Bennett Joan Wennstrom
Published: April 2017

This essay is an unabashed celebration of applied microbiology and secondary metabolism, and how one scientist—Arnold Demain—has been a spokesman for industrial microbiology and biotechnology. There are many reasons for Arny’s professional success. During his long and distinguished career, Arnold Demain has expanded and enriched our understanding of the importance secondary metabolism. He has studied topics that ranged from pickles, to pectinolytic enzymes, to penicillin. His experimental versatility was conducted under the unifying theme of fermentation microbiology. In addition, one of his most positive achievements was his ability to bring scientists from different disciplines and national backgrounds together and thereby nucleate new collaborations. I am one of many people who has benefited from Arny’s generous mentoring and speak from the heart when I say that industrial microbiology could not have a better representative. Arny has been the catalyst for much of that has gone right in my professional life and the lives of the many other applied microbiologists who have had the good fortune to know him.
High-level productivity of α,ω-dodecanedioic acid with a newly isolated Candida viswanathii strain
Authors: Cao Weifeng , Li Hongbao , Luo Jianquan , Yin Junxiang , Wan Yinhua
Published: April 2017

α,ω-Dicarboxylic acids (DC) are versatile chemical intermediates with different chain lengths, which are well-known as polymer building block. In this work, a new strain with high productivity of DC was isolated from oil-contaminated soil. Based on the morphology and phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer sequences, it was characterized as Candida viswanathii. It was found that the contribution of carbon flux to the cell growth and DC production from n-dodecane could be regulated by the sucrose and yeast extract concentrations in the medium, and besides the broth pH, a suitable proportioning of sucrose and yeast extract was the key to achieve the optimal transition from cell growth phase to DC production phase. By optimizing culture conditions in a 7.5-L bioreactor, a higher DC productivity of 1.59 g·L−1 h−1 with a corresponding concentration of 181.6 g/L was obtained. After the purification of DC from the culture, the results from gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy and 1H-NMR showed that α,ω-dodecanedioic acid (DC12) was the major product of C. viswanathii ipe-1 using pure n-dodecane as substrate. For the first time, we reported that a high productivity of DC12 could be produced by C. viswanathii.
Hacettepe cartilage slicer: a novel cartilage slicer and its performance test results
Authors: Ergun O , Bajin M D , Sargon M F , Sennaroglu L
Published: April 2017

Objective:

This study investigated the performance of a cartilage slicer device referred to as the ‘Hacettepe cartilage slicer’.

Methods:

Forty-one cartilage pieces were harvested from eight fresh frozen human ears and measured in thickness with a digital micrometer. These pieces were randomly sliced using four different thickness settings and two different types of blades. The thicknesses of the slices and remaining pieces were measured also. Scanning electron microscopy was utilised to determine the surface smoothness of the slices.

Results:

Thickness results showed a proportional increase with the increasing thickness setting, with a ±0.1 mm margin of error. The measurements showed that over 95 per cent of the slices’ structural integrity was preserved. Although both blades provided satisfactory results, scanning electron microscopy revealed that the slices cut with a single bevel blade had superior surface smoothness.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, the current study is the first to evaluate the performance of a cartilage slicer device. Based on the thickness results, the Hacettepe cartilage slicer fulfilled its design goals: to consistently produce slices at the intended thickness with a ±0.1 mm tolerance, and to preserve over 95.3 per cent of cartilage thickness thereby ensuring undamaged, strong cartilage slices.
Social sustainability in context: rediscovering Ingrid Gehl's Bo-miljø
Authors: Peters Terri
Published: April 2017

Psychological needs and human wellbeing are aspects of sustainability that urgently need to be reconsidered in architecture. Too often, the concept of sustainability is connected to quantitative building performance, without enough consideration of how people use and enjoy spaces and how their wellbeing is influenced by their environment. This paper introduces the report Bo-miljø or Living Environment, written by Danish environmental psychologist Ingrid Gehl in 1971, into the current social sustainability discourse in architectural design as a way of gaining perspective into psychological wellbeing. The report is particularly relevant for considering the human dimension in housing design and identifies eight basic psychological needs that people have in relation to their living environments. The analysis of this report, and the synthesis of the findings with newer studies and definitions of social sustainability offer a framework for rethinking social sustainability. This essay analyses the findings from Gehl's report and contextualises it within current interdisciplinary research in this area. Critically analysing leading definitions and concepts in social sustainability and wellbeing, this essay offers an architectural perspective on design for social sustainability and wellbeing.
Finding common ground: architects, end-users, and decision-makers in the renovation of the Arts Tower, Sheffield
Authors: Chiles Prue , Petrelli Daniela , Spedale Simona
Published: April 2017

The Arts Tower at the University of Sheffield was completed in 1961 to designs by Gollins Melvin and Ward and it has been dubbed by English Heritage ‘the most elegant University tower block of its period’. Its renovation, finished in 2012, can be understood as representative of wider debates about the attitudes and values attached to the future use of notable twentieth century modernist architecture. This paper explores the dilemmas and decision-making that characterised the complex negotiation processes involved in deciding how best to renovate this icon of modernity. It highlights the different perspectives and multiple voices within the University and explores the role of architectural values that privilege design in decision-making processes. It may be a familiar tale to anyone who has built or renovated a building involving a complex client and a diverse set of building users.

Through the analysis of four alternative narratives of participants, the complexity of a multi-voiced organisational process is exposed. These four narratives belong to four different players in the process, representing four different cultures. The first accounts for university management (the client); the second the School of Architecture and Department of Landscape (‘end-user’ clients); the third the estates department (the client's representative); and the fourth the expert architectural historian (an academic and end-user). This complexity was represented in the composition of the organisational body in charge of the project and the decision making process.

The images accompanying this paper also provide a short illustrated account of key aspects of the renovation from the perspective of the authors.
THE WELFARE COST OF EXCESS VOLATILITY IN INCOMPLETE MARKETS WITH SUNSPOTS
Authors: Kang Minwook
Published: April 2017

In an incomplete markets economy with sunspots, the Pareto-criterion cannot rank sunspot equilibria of different levels of excess price-level volatility. Therefore, I propose a measure of excess volatility cost in terms of a period-0 endowment good. Ex-ante endowment subsidies are provided, in theory, to each consumer, so that the resulting equilibrium allocation of the higher volatility is Pareto-equivalent to the original benchmark equilibrium with a lower volatility level. The aggregate volatility cost is computed as the sum of all consumers' subsidies. Focusing on local analysis that considers small variations around a given volatility level, I show that the aggregate cost strictly increases in volatility even though each individual cost does not necessarily have this property.
HOSPITALITY NARRATIVES IN VIRGIL AND CALLIMACHUS: THE IDEOLOGY OF RECEPTION
Authors: O'Rourke Donncha
Published: April 2017

This article highlights the extent and significance of the intertextual relationship between reception narratives in Virgil'sAeneid(Aeneas and Evander) and Callimachus’Aetia(Heracles and Molorcus) andHecale(Theseus and Hecale). Encompassing Aeneas’ succession to Hercules as Evander's guest, his failed pledge to his host and his acquisition of a shield on which his historical successor, Augustus, is depicted, Callimachean intertextuality informs the narrative of theAeneidin its widest sweep. As the archetypal scene of Homeric hospitality (Odysseus and Eumaeus) is received from Callimachus by the new Homer of Augustan Rome, the narrative of reception becomes one of intertextual and cultural appropriation, the dynamics of which are far from those of amicable exchange.
APPLICATIONS OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL BOX MODELING TO PALEONTOLOGICAL FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Rahman Imran A. , Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: April 2017

Functional analysis through computer modeling can inform on how extinct organisms moved and fed, allowing us to test long-standing paleobiological hypotheses. Many such studies are based on digital models derived from computed tomography or surface scanning, but these methods are not appropriate for all fossils. Here, we show that box modeling—3-D modeling of complex shapes based on simple objects—can be used to reconstruct the morphology of various fossil specimens. Moreover, the results of computational functional analyses utilizing such models are very similar to those for models derived from tomographic or surface-based techniques. Box modeling is more broadly applicable than alternative methods for digitizing specimens; hence, there is great potential for this approach in paleontological functional analysis. Possible applications include large-scale comparative studies, analyses of hypothetical morphologies, and virtually restoring incomplete/distorted specimens.
Laser and Structured Light Scanning to Acquire 3-D Morphology
Authors: Pruitt Jesse B. , Clement Nicholas G. , Tapanila Leif
Published: April 2017

Laser and structured light scanners are primary tools for acquiring surface details of body and trace fossils and have been widely used to study vertebrate specimens. Comparison of different scanner types shows their relative advantages and limitations. Regardless of scanning device, the workflow from initial scan to final product involves registration and some editing for archival or research-grade products. Additional steps, including further object editing and optimization, are required to prepare a scan file for web viewing, animation, and three-dimensional (3-D) printing.
Predictive Capability for Extreme Space Weather Events
Authors: Sharma A. , Kalnay Eugenia , Bonadonna Michael
Published: April 2017

Workshop on Modeling and Prediction of Extreme Space Weather Events; College Park, Maryland, 22–24 August 2016
Creation of energetic biothermite inks using ferritin liquid protein
Authors: Slocik Joseph M. , McKenzie Ruel , Dennis Patrick B. , Naik Rajesh R.
Published: April 2017

Energetic liquids function mainly as fuels due to low energy densities and slow combustion kinetics. Consequently, these properties can be significantly increased through the addition of metal nanomaterials such as aluminium. Unfortunately, nanoparticle additives are restricted to low mass fractions in liquids because of increased viscosities and severe particle agglomeration. Nanoscale protein ionic liquids represent multifunctional solvent systems that are well suited to overcoming low mass fractions of nanoparticles, producing stable nanoparticle dispersions and simultaneously offering a source of oxidizing agents for combustion of reactive nanomaterials. Here, we use iron oxide-loaded ferritin proteins to create a stable and highly energetic liquid composed of aluminium nanoparticles and ferritin proteins for printing and forming 3D shapes and structures. In total, this bioenergetic liquid exhibits increased energy output and performance, enhanced dispersion and oxidation stability, lower activation temperatures, and greater processability and functionality.
Low-basicity 5-HT7 Receptor Agonists Synthesized Using the van Leusen Multicomponent Protocol
Authors: Hogendorf Adam S. , Hogendorf Agata , Kurczab Rafał , Satała Grzegorz , Lenda Tomasz , Walczak Maria , Latacz Gniewomir , Handzlik Jadwiga , Kieć-Kononowicz Katarzyna , Wierońska Joanna M. , Woźniak Monika , Cieślik Paulina , Bugno Ryszard , Staroń Jakub , Bojarski Andrzej J.
Published: April 2017

A series of 5-aryl-1-alkylimidazole derivatives was synthesized using the van Leusen multicomponent reaction. The chemotype is the first example of low-basicity scaffolds exhibiting high affinity for 5-HT7 receptor together with agonist function. The chosen lead compounds 3-(1-ethyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)-5-iodo-1H-indole (AGH-107, 1o, Ki 5-HT7 = 6 nM, EC50 = 19 nM, 176-fold selectivity over 5-HT1AR) and 1e (5-methoxy analogue, Ki 5-HT7 = 30 nM, EC50 = 60 nM) exhibited high selectivity over related CNS targets, high metabolic stability and low toxicity in HEK-293 and HepG2 cell cultures. A rapid absorption to the blood, high blood-brain barrier permeation and a very high peak concentration in the brain (Cmax = 2723 ng/g) were found for 1o after i.p. (5 mg/kg) administration in mice. The compound was found active in novel object recognition test in mice, at 0.5, 1 and 5 mg/kg. Docking to 5-HT7R homology models indicated a plausible binding mode which explain the unusually high selectivity over the related CNS targets. Halogen bond formation between the most potent derivatives and the receptor is consistent with both the docking results and SAR. 5-Chlorine, bromine and iodine substitution resulted in a 13, 27 and 89-fold increase in binding affinities, respectively, and in enhanced 5-HT1AR selectivity.
Subventricular zone involvement in Glioblastoma – A proteomic evaluation and clinicoradiological correlation
Authors: Gollapalli Kishore , Ghantasala Saicharan , Kumar Sachendra , Srivastava Rajneesh , Rapole Srikanth , Moiyadi Aliasgar , Epari Sridhar , Srivastava Sanjeeva
Published: April 2017

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most malignant of all gliomas is characterized by a high degree of heterogeneity and poor response to treatment. The sub-ventricular zone (SVZ) is the major site of neurogenesis in the brain and is rich in neural stem cells. Based on the proximity of the GBM tumors to the SVZ, the tumors can be further classified into SVZ+ and SVZ−. The tumors located in close contact with the SVZ are classified as SVZ+, while the tumors located distantly from the SVZ are classified as SVZ−. To gain an insight into the increased aggressiveness of SVZ+ over SVZ− tumors, we have used proteomics techniques like 2D-DIGE and LC-MS/MS to investigate any possible proteomic differences between the two subtypes. Serum proteomic analysis revealed significant alterations of various acute phase proteins and lipid carrying proteins, while tissue proteomic analysis revealed significant alterations in cytoskeletal, lipid binding, chaperone and cell cycle regulating proteins, which are already known to be associated with disease pathobiology. These findings provide cues to molecular basis behind increased aggressiveness of SVZ+ GBM tumors over SVZ− GBM tumors and plausible therapeutic targets to improve treatment modalities for these highly invasive tumors.
Impact of platinum/pemetrexed combination versus other platinum-based regimens on adjuvant chemotherapy in resected lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhai Xiaoyu , Zheng Qiwen , Yang Lu , Zhu Yixiang , Li Junling , Liu Yutao , Wang Ziping
Published: April 2017

For advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), although platinum/pemetrexed is known to result in a longer survival compared with other regimens, the outcome in the adjuvant setting is still unknown. In this study, the difference of the disease-free survival (DFS) between lung adenocarcinoma patients treated with platinum/pemetrexed and with other platinum-based doublets was concerned. A total of 389 radically resected lung adenocarcinoma patients received adjuvant chemotherapy with platinum/pemetrexed chemotherapy (Group A, n = 143) or other third generation platinum-based regimens (Group B, n = 246) were analyzed in terms of DFS. Propensity score matching (PSM) allowed generation of best matched pairs for the two categories. DFS was proved to be considerably better in pemetrexed doublets group (P = 0.0079); and platinum/pemetrexed was found to be associated with lower rates of several hematological and non-hematological adverse events (AEs), when compared with gemcitabine containing chemotherapy (leukopenia: RR 0.514, p = 0.001; neutropenia: RR 0.688, p = 0.002), or taxanes-doublets treatment (leukopenia: RR 0.685, p = 0.019; neutropenia: RR 0.805, p = 0.032). For patients with radically resected pulmonary adenocarcinoma, adjuvant chemotherapy with platinum/pemetrexed results in a better DFS and a less clinical toxicity in comparison with non-pemetrexed based doublets.
Immune-checkpoint protein VISTA critically regulates the IL-23/IL-17 inflammatory axis
Authors: Li Na , Xu Wenwen , Yuan Ying , Ayithan Natarajan , Imai Yasutomo , Wu Xuesong , Miller Halli , Olson Michael , Feng Yunfeng , Huang Yina H. , Jo Turk Mary , Hwang Samuel T. , Malarkannan Subramaniam , Wang Li
Published: April 2017

V-domain Immunoglobulin Suppressor of T cell Activation (VISTA) is an inhibitory immune-checkpoint molecule that suppresses CD4+ and CD8+ T cell activation when expressed on antigen-presenting cells. Vsir−/− mice developed loss of peripheral tolerance and multi-organ chronic inflammatory phenotypes. Vsir−/− CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were hyper-responsive towards self- and foreign antigens. Whether or not VISTA regulates innate immunity is unknown. Using a murine model of psoriasis induced by TLR7 agonist imiquimod (IMQ), we show that VISTA deficiency exacerbated psoriasiform inflammation. Enhanced TLR7 signaling in Vsir−/− dendritic cells (DCs) led to the hyper-activation of Erk1/2 and Jnk1/2, and augmented the production of IL-23. IL-23, in turn, promoted the expression of IL-17A in both TCRγδ+ T cells and CD4+ Th17 cells. Furthermore, VISTA regulates the peripheral homeostasis of CD27− γδ T cells and their activation upon TCR-mediated or cytokine-mediated stimulation. IL-17A-producing CD27− γδ T cells were expanded in the Vsir−/− mice and amplified the inflammatory cascade. In conclusion, this study has demonstrated that VISTA critically regulates the inflammatory responses mediated by DCs and IL-17-producing TCRγδ+ and CD4+ Th17 T cells following TLR7 stimulation. Our finding provides a rationale for therapeutically enhancing VISTA-mediated pathways to benefit the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
Evaluating the utility of syndromic case management for three sexually transmitted infections in women visiting hospitals in Delhi, India
Authors: Sonkar Subash Chandra , Wasnik Kirti , Kumar Anita , Sharma Vineeta , Mittal Pratima , Mishra Prashant Kumar , Bharadwaj Mausumi , Saluja Daman
Published: April 2017

Utility of syndromic case management (SCM) in women visiting obstetrics & gynecology department needs to be evaluated as it is subjective and imperfect. Consequently, antibiotic resistance has accelerated along with increased risk of infection to the partners. To understand the effectiveness and/or inadequacies of SCM, 11000 women were recruited and examined by clinicians for infection by Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and others. Amongst these patients, 1797 (16.3%) reported vaginal discharge (VD). Other symptoms included: vaginitis (97%), cervicitis (75%), genital ulcers (60%), abnormal vaginal discharge (55%) and lower abdominal pain (48%). The patients were treated for single or co-infections using pre-packed National Aids Control Program III STI/RTI Kits. However, based on PCR diagnostics, 1453/1797 (81%) subjects were uninfected for NG/TV/CT. Amongst 344 (19%) infected patients, 257 (75%) carried infection with single pathogen (TV/NG/CT) while 87/344 (25%) were co-infected with multiple pathogens. Prevalence of TV, NG & CT was 4%, 7% and 8% respectively. Co-infection with CT + NG was highest, 51% (44/87), whereas, co-infection with CT + TV was 21% and NG + TV was 18% while co-infection with all three pathogens was 1.3%. We conclude that SCM is imprecise and successful intervention requires accurate and confirmatory diagnostic approach.
Correlates of insulin clearance in apparently healthy non-obese Japanese men
Authors: Kaga Hideyoshi , Tamura Yoshifumi , Takeno Kageumi , Kakehi Saori , Funayama Takashi , Furukawa Yasuhiko , Nishitani-Yokoyama Miho , Shimada Kazunori , Daida Hiroyuki , Aoki Shigeki , Giacca Adria , Kanazawa Akio , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka
Published: April 2017

Hyperinsulinemia observed in obese subject is caused at least in part by low metabolic clearance rate of insulin (MCRI). However, the determinants of MCRI in non-obese subjects are not fully understood. To investigate the correlates of MCRI in healthy non-obese men (BMI <25 kg/m2), we studied 49 non-obese Japanese men free of cardiometabolic risk factors. Using a 2-step hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp, we evaluated MCRI and insulin sensitivity. We also calculated the rate of glucose disappearance (Rd) during the clamp and muscle insulin sensitivity was defined as Rd/steady state serum insulin (SSSI) at the second step. Based on the median value of MCRI, the subjects were divided into the low- and high-MCRI groups. Subjects of the low-MCRI group had significant impairment of muscle insulin sensitivity, although Rd levels were comparable between the two groups, probably due to elevated SSSI in the low-MCRI group. Subjects of the low-MCRI group had higher total body fat content and lower VO2peak and showed no deterioration of cardiometabolic risk factors. Our results suggest that low MCRI may be early change to maintain glucose uptake and metabolic status in the face of slight impairment of muscle insulin sensitivity caused by increased adiposity and lower fitness level.
Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Content and Oxidation State of Fish Oil Supplements in New Zealand
Authors: Bannenberg Gerard , Mallon Craig , Edwards Holly , Yeadon Derek , Yan Kevin , Johnson Holly , Ismail Adam
Published: April 2017

Forty-seven fish oil products available on the New Zealand market were analyzed for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content, as well as for oxidative status in a collaborative effort by several analytical laboratories. Of the tested products, 72%, 86% and 77% complied with voluntary industry-set maximum limits on Peroxide Value (PV), para-Anisidine Value (p-AV), and TOTOX, respectively. 91% of the products complied with EPA/DHA content claims. All fish oils complied with a p-AV limit of 30, 98% with a PV limit of 10 meq O2/kg, and 96% with a calculated TOTOX value of 50, which are less stringent limits used by the European and British Pharmacopeia and the Australian authorities. The results are in stark contrast to the very low percentage of fish oil products reported to be in compliance with primary oxidation limits and EPA/DHA content by a recently published assessment of fish oil supplements in New Zealand. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are evaluated and discussed.
Spindle pole cohesion requires glycosylation-mediated localization of NuMA
Authors: Magescas Jérémy , Sengmanivong Lucie , Viau Amandine , Mayeux Adeline , Dang Tien , Burtin Martine , Nilsson Ulf J. , Leffler Hakon , Poirier Françoise , Terzi Fabiola , Delacour Delphine
Published: April 2017

Glycosylation is critical for the regulation of several cellular processes. One glycosylation pathway, the unusual O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine glycosylation (O-GlcNAcylation) has been shown to be required for proper mitosis, likely through a subset of proteins that are O-GlcNAcylated during metaphase. As lectins bind glycosylated proteins, we asked if specific lectins interact with mitotic O-GlcNAcylated proteins during metaphase to ensure correct cell division. Galectin-3, a small soluble lectin of the Galectin family, is an excellent candidate, as it has been previously described as a transient centrosomal component in interphase and mitotic epithelial cells. In addition, it has recently been shown to associate with basal bodies in motile cilia, where it stabilizes the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC). Using an experimental mouse model of chronic kidney disease and human epithelial cell lines, we investigate the role of Galectin-3 in dividing epithelial cells. Here we find that Galectin-3 is essential for metaphase where it associates with NuMA in an O-GlcNAcylation-dependent manner. We provide evidence that the NuMA-Galectin-3 interaction is important for mitotic spindle cohesion and for stable NuMA localization to the spindle pole, thus revealing that Galectin-3 is a novel contributor to epithelial mitotic progress.
Transition from Coherent to Stochastic electron heating in ultrashort relativistic laser interaction with structured targets
Authors: Cristoforetti G. , Londrillo P. , Singh P. K. , Baffigi F. , D’Arrigo G. , Lad Amit D. , Milazzo R. G. , Adak A. , Shaikh M. , Sarkar D. , Chatterjee G. , Jha J. , Krishnamurthy M. , Kumar G. R. , Gizzi L. A.
Published: April 2017

Relativistic laser interaction with micro- and nano-scale surface structures enhances energy transfer to solid targets and yields matter in extreme conditions. We report on the comparative study of laser-target interaction mechanisms with wire-structures of different size, revealing a transition from a coherent particle heating to a stochastic plasma heating regime which occurs when migrating from micro-scale to nano-scale wires. Experiments and kinetic simulations show that large gaps between the wires favour the generation of high-energy electrons via laser acceleration into the channels while gaps smaller than the amplitude of electron quivering in the laser field lead to less energetic electrons and multi-keV plasma generation, in agreement with previously published experiments. Plasma filling of nano-sized gaps due to picosecond pedestal typical of ultrashort pulses strongly affects the interaction with this class of targets reducing the laser penetration depth to approximately one hundred nanometers. The two heating regimes appear potentially suitable for laser-driven ion/electron acceleration schemes and warm dense matter investigation respectively.
Serum anion gap at admission as a predictor of mortality in the pediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Kim Min Jung , Kim Yoon Hee , Sol In Suk , Kim Soo Yeon , Kim Jong Deok , Kim Ha Yan , Kim Kyung Won , Sohn Myung Hyun , Kim Kyu-Earn
Published: April 2017

An accurate method to predict the mortality in the intensive care unit (ICU) patients has been required, especially in children. The aim of this study is to evaluate the value of serum anion gap (AG) for predicting mortality in pediatric ICU (PICU). We reviewed a data of 461 pediatric patients were collected on PICU admission. Corrected anion gap (cAG), the AG compensated for abnormal albumin levels, was significantly lower in survivors compared with nonsurvivors (p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified the following variables as independent predictors of mortality; cAG (OR 1.110, 95% CI 1.06–1.17; p < 0.001), PIM3 [OR 7.583, 95% CI 1.81–31.78; p = 0.006], and PRISM III [OR 1.076, 95% CI 1.02–1.14; p = 0.008]. Comparing AUCs for mortality prediction, there were no statistically significant differences between cAG and other mortality prediction models; cAG 0.728, PIM2 0.779, PIM3 0.822, and PRISM III 0.808. The corporation of cAG to pre-existing mortality prediction models was significantly more accurate at predicting mortality than using any of these models alone. We concluded that cAG at ICU admission may be used to predict mortality in children, regardless of underlying etiology. And the incorporation of cAG to pre-existing mortality prediction models might improve predictability.
Nonlinear graphene quantum capacitors for electro-optics
Authors: Khorasani Sina , Koottandavida Akshay
Published: April 2017

Owing to its peculiar energy dispersion, the quantum capacitance property of graphene can be exploited in a two-dimensional layered capacitor configuration. Using graphene and boron nitride, respectively, as the electrodes and the insulating dielectric, a strongly nonlinear behavior at zero bias and small voltages is obtained. When the temperature is sufficiently low, the strong nonlinear interaction emerging from the quantum capacitance exhibits a diverse range of phenomena. The proposed structure could take over the functionalities of nonlinear elements in many cryogenic quantum systems, and in particular, quantum electro-optics. It is shown that ultrastrong coupling is easily reached with small number of pump photons at temperatures around 1 K and capacitor areas of the order of 1 μm2. A measure of anharmonicity is defined and as potential applications, a qubit design as well as schemes for non-reciprocal devices such as an electromagnetic frequency circulator are discussed.
Genome-wide identification, characterization, and expression profile of aquaporin gene family in flax (Linum usitatissimum)
Authors: Shivaraj S. M. , Deshmukh Rupesh K. , Rai Rhitu , Bélanger Richard , Agrawal Pawan K. , Dash Prasanta K.
Published: April 2017

Membrane intrinsic proteins (MIPs) form transmembrane channels and facilitate transport of myriad substrates across the cell membrane in many organisms. Majority of plant MIPs have water transporting ability and are commonly referred as aquaporins (AQPs). In the present study, we identified aquaporin coding genes in flax by genome-wide analysis, their structure, function and expression pattern by pan-genome exploration. Cross-genera phylogenetic analysis with known aquaporins from rice, arabidopsis, and poplar showed five subgroups of flax aquaporins representing 16 plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs), 17 tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIPs), 13 NOD26-like intrinsic proteins (NIPs), 2 small basic intrinsic proteins (SIPs), and 3 uncharacterized intrinsic proteins (XIPs). Amongst aquaporins, PIPs contained hydrophilic aromatic arginine (ar/R) selective filter but TIP, NIP, SIP and XIP subfamilies mostly contained hydrophobic ar/R selective filter. Analysis of RNA-seq and microarray data revealed high expression of PIPs in multiple tissues, low expression of NIPs, and seed specific expression of TIP3 in flax. Exploration of aquaporin homologs in three closely related Linum species bienne, grandiflorum and leonii revealed presence of 49, 39 and 19 AQPs, respectively. The genome-wide identification of aquaporins, first in flax, provides insight to elucidate their physiological and developmental roles in flax.
Grand-maternal smoking in pregnancy and grandchild’s autistic traits and diagnosed autism
Authors: Golding Jean , Ellis Genette , Gregory Steven , Birmingham Karen , Iles-Caven Yasmin , Rai Dheeraj , Pembrey Marcus
Published: April 2017

Although there is considerable research into the genetic background of autism spectrum disorders, environmental factors are likely to contribute to the variation in prevalence over time. Rodent experiments indicate that environmental exposures can have effects on subsequent generations, and human studies indicate that parental prenatal exposures may play a part in developmental variation. Here we use the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) to test the hypothesis that if the mother or father (F1) had been exposed to their own mother’s (F0) smoking during pregnancy, the offspring (F2) would be at increased risk of autism. We find an association between maternal grandmother smoking in pregnancy and grand daughters having adverse scores in Social Communication and Repetitive Behaviour measures that are independently predictive of diagnosed autism. In line with this, we show an association with actual diagnosis of autism in her grandchildren. Paternal grandmothers smoking in pregnancy showed no associations.
The effect of the buffer solution on the adsorption and stability of horse heart myoglobin on commercial mesoporous titanium dioxide: a matter of the right choice
Authors: Loreto Stefano , Cuypers Bert , Brokken Jacotte , Van Doorslaer Sabine , De Wael Karolien , Meynen Vera
Published: April 2017

An insight into the buffer role in protein stability and adsorption on mesoporous materials.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of 3-amino-3-hydroxymethyloxindoles as potential anti-cancer agents
Authors: Jia Kaili , Lv Xinxin , Xing Dong , Che Jiuwei , Liu Donglan , Thumar Nilesh J. , Dong Suzhen , Hu Wenhao
Published: April 2017

A series of substituted 3-amino-3-hydroxymethyloxindoles synthesized through a multi-component approach showed anticancer potency. The most potent compound 5m inhibits SJSA-1 proliferation with an IC50 of 3.14 μM. It can also induce time- and dose-dependent apoptosis.
A novel h-BN–RGO hybrids for epoxy resin composites achieving enhanced high thermal conductivity and energy density
Authors: Huang Tao , Zeng Xiaoliang , Yao Yimin , Sun Rong , Meng Fanling , Xu Jianbin , Wong Chingping
Published: April 2017

In recent decades, significant attention has been focused on developing composite materials with high thermal conductivity utilizing h-BN, which has outstanding thermal conductivity.
A multi-walled carbon nanotube–zinc oxide nanofiber based flexible chemiresistive biosensor for malaria biomarker detection
Authors: Paul K Brince , Panigrahi Asisa Kumar , Singh Vikrant , Singh Shiv Govind
Published: April 2017

A flexible, lightweight and disposable chemiresistive biosensor for label free detection of the malaria biomarker.
Coordination nanosheets (CONASHs): strategies, structures and functions
Authors: Sakamoto Ryota , Takada Kenji , Pal Tigmansu , Maeda Hiroaki , Kambe Tetsuya , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: April 2017

The present feature article assembles recent rapid progress in the coordination nanosheet (CONASH), the interest of which traverses from basic to materials science.
Lanthanide separation using size-selective crystallization of Ln-MOFs
Authors: Ya Gao Heng , Li Peng Wen , Pan Meng Pan , Feng Feng Xue , Qiang Li Jian , Qiong Wu Hui , Sheng Yan Chang , Yang Xiong Yang , Luo Feng
Published: April 2017

We report herein an elaborate method, size-selective crystallization of Ln-MOFs, to isolate lanthanide (Ln) ions.
Nanostructured potassium and sodium ion incorporated Prussian blue frameworks as cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Yang , He Dandan , Han Ruimin , Wei Gangya , Qiao Yun
Published: April 2017

Nanostructured KxNayMnFe(CN)6 (x + y ≤ 2) has been synthesized via a facile co-precipitation method.
Hierarchical chirality transfer in the formation of chiral silica fibres with DNA–porphyrin co-templates
Authors: Cao Yuanyuan , Duan Yingying , Han Lu , Che Shunai
Published: April 2017

Screw-like hierarchical chiral fibres were constructed by the co-assembly of two biomolecules, from a multilevel chirality transfer and amplification process.
The quasi-unchanged gas-phase molecular structures of the atmospheric aerosol precursor β-pinene and its oxidation product nopinone
Authors: Neeman E. M. , Avilés-Moreno J.-R. , Huet T. R.
Published: April 2017

Gas-phase structural changes associated with the oxidation of β-pinene into nopinone have been experimentally unveiled, using impulse microwave spectroscopy.
CH stretching excitation promotes its cleavage in the F + CHD3(ν1 = 1) → HF + CD3 reaction at low collision energies
Authors: Zhang Dong , Yang Jiayue , Chen Zhen , Chen Rongjun , Jiang Bo , Dai Dongxu , Wu Guorong , Zhang Donghui , Yang Xueming
Published: April 2017

The effects of CH stretching excitation on the reactivity of the F + CHD3 → HF + CD3 reaction were experimentally studied.
Protonation-modulated localization of excess electrons in histidine aqueous solutions revealed by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations: anion-centered versus cation-centered localization
Authors: Gao Liang , Bu Yuxiang
Published: April 2017

In this work, we present an ab initio molecular dynamics simulation study on the interaction of an excess electron (EE) with histidine in its aqueous solution.
Anisotropic metal nanoparticles for surface enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Reguera Javier , Langer Judith , Jiménez de Aberasturi Dorleta , Liz-Marzán Luis M.
Published: April 2017

Anisotropy in plasmonic metal nanoparticles plays a major role in the enhancement of the Raman scattering of adsorbed molecules.
Sustainable bisphenols from renewable softwood lignin feedstock for polycarbonates and cyanate ester resins
Authors: Koelewijn S.-F. , Van den Bosch S. , Renders T. , Schutyser W. , Lagrain B. , Smet M. , Thomas J. , Dehaen W. , Van Puyvelde P. , Witters H. , Sels B. F.
Published: April 2017

Alternative bisphenols, synthesized from lignin-derivable 4-n-propylguaiacol, show promising technical, sustainable and environmental advantages for various polymer applications.
Taste and smell in aquatic and terrestrial environments
Authors: Mollo E. , Garson M. J. , Polese G. , Amodeo P. , Ghiselin M. T.
Published: April 2017

The review summarizes results up to 2017 on chemosensory cues occurring in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Reduced graphene oxide modified mesoporous FeNi alloy/carbon microspheres for enhanced broadband electromagnetic wave absorbers
Authors: Li Juan , Wang Lei , Zhang Dong , Qu Yue , Wang Guangming , Tian Ge , Liu Anhua , Yue Huijuan , Feng Shouhua
Published: April 2017

Graphene was introduced onto an embedded magnetic mesoporous composite. The overall microwave absorption performance of the material was significantly improved.
A concise synthetic approach to parvistemin A and (±)-diperezone
Authors: Gao Songsong , Hu Xiangdong
Published: April 2017

Concise syntheses of parvistemin A and diperezone are achieved using ring expansion of cyclobutenones and oxidative phenolic coupling under basic conditions.
Synthesis of pyrazolo[5,1-a]isoquinolines through copper-catalyzed regioselective bicyclization of N-propargylic sulfonylhydrazones
Authors: Tang Hai-Tao , Zeng Jia-Hao , Chen Jun-Jia , Zhou Yun-Bing , Li Ren-Hao , Zhan Zhuang-Ping
Published: April 2017

An expeditious strategy for the synthesis of pyrazolo[5,1-a]isoquinolines through copper(ii)-catalyzed regioselective bicyclization of N-propargylic sulfonylhydrazones has been developed.
Effective surface attachment of Ag nanoparticles on fibers using glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride and improvement of antimicrobial properties
Authors: Kang Chankyu , Kim Sam Soo , Ahn Dajeong , Kim Soo Jung , Lee Jaewoong
Published: April 2017

Functional m-aramid fibers with antimicrobial properties by reaction of glycidyltrimethylammonium chloride with silver nanoparticles.
Oxidation-resistant micron-sized Cu–Sn solid particles fabricated by a one-step and scalable method
Authors: Liang Yujia , Oh Su Cheun , Wang Xizheng , Glicksman Howard , Liu Dongxia , Ehrman Sheryl
Published: April 2017

Oxidation-resistant Cu–Sn microparticles fabricated by a scalable process as alternatives to more expensive noble metal based powders.