bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An assay for the identification of Plasmodium simium infection for diagnosis of zoonotic malaria in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: de Alvarenga Denise Anete Madureira , Culleton Richard , de Pina-Costa Anielle , Rodrigues Danielle Fonseca , Bianco Cesare , Silva Sidnei , Nunes Ana Júlia Dutra , de Souza Julio César , Hirano Zelinda Maria Braga , Moreira Sílvia Bahadian , Pissinatti Alcides , de Abreu Filipe Vieira Santos , Lisboa Areas André Luiz , Lourenço-de-Oliveira Ricardo , Zalis Mariano Gustavo , Ferreira-da-Cruz Maria de Fátima , Brasil Patricia , Daniel-Ribeiro Cláudio Tadeu , de Brito Cristiana Ferreira Alves
Published: January 2018

Zoonotic malaria poses a unique problem for malaria control. Autochthonous cases of human malaria in the Atlantic Forest have recently been attributed to Plasmodium simium, a parasite that commonly infects non-human primates in this Brazilian biome. However, due to its close similarity at both the morphological and molecular level to Plasmodium vivax, the diagnosis of P. simium in this region remains problematic. Therefore, a diagnostic assay able to accurately identify P. simium is important for malaria surveillance. Based on mitochondrial genome sequences, primers were designed to amplify a region containing a SNP specific to P. simium. This region can then be digested with the restriction enzyme HpyCH4III, which results in digestion of P. simium sequences, but not of any other malaria parasite. Fifty-two human and monkey blood samples from different regions and infected with different Plasmodium species were used to validate this protocol. This easy and inexpensive tool can be used for the diagnosis of P. simium in non-human primates and human infections from the Atlantic Forest region to monitor zoonotic malaria transmission in Brazil.
Spontaneous and training-induced cortical plasticity in MD patients: Hints from lateral masking
Authors: Maniglia Marcello , Soler Vincent , Cottereau Benoit , Trotter Yves
Published: January 2018

Macular degeneration (MD) affects central vision and represents the leading cause of visual diseases in elderly population worldwide. As a consequence of central vision loss, MD patients develop a preferred retinal locus (PRL), an eccentric fixation point that replaces the fovea. Here, our aim was to determine whether and to what extent spontaneous plasticity takes place in the cortical regions formerly responding to central vision and whether a visual training based on perceptual learning (PL) can boost this plasticity within the PRL area. Spontaneous and PL-induced cortical plasticity were characterized by using lateral masking, a contrast sensitivity modulation induced by collinear flankers. This configuration is known to be sensitive to neural plasticity and underlies several rehabilitation trainings. Results in a group of 4 MD patients showed that collinear facilitation was similar to what observed in age- and eccentricity-matched controls. However, MD patients exhibited significantly reduced collinear inhibition, a sign of neural plasticity, consistent with the hypothesis of partial cortical reorganization. Three AMD patients from the same group showed a further reduction of inhibition after training, but not controls. This result suggests that PL might further boost neural plasticity, opening promising perspectives for the development of rehabilitation protocols for MD patients.
Closed-loop control of trunk posture improves locomotion through the regulation of leg proprioceptive feedback after spinal cord injury
Authors: Moraud Eduardo Martin , von Zitzewitz Joachim , Miehlbradt Jenifer , Wurth Sophie , Formento Emanuele , DiGiovanna Jack , Capogrosso Marco , Courtine Grégoire , Micera Silvestro
Published: January 2018

After spinal cord injury (SCI), sensory feedback circuits critically contribute to leg motor execution. Compelled by the importance to engage these circuits during gait rehabilitation, assistive robotics and training protocols have primarily focused on guiding leg movements to reinforce sensory feedback. Despite the importance of trunk postural dynamics on gait and balance, trunk assistance has comparatively received little attention. Typically, trunk movements are either constrained within bodyweight support systems, or manually adjusted by therapists. Here, we show that real-time control of trunk posture re-established dynamic balance amongst bilateral proprioceptive feedback circuits, and thereby restored left-right symmetry, loading and stepping consistency in rats with severe SCI. We developed a robotic system that adjusts mediolateral trunk posture during locomotion. This system uncovered robust relationships between trunk orientation and the modulation of bilateral leg kinematics and muscle activity. Computer simulations suggested that these modulations emerged from corrections in the balance between flexor- and extensor-related proprioceptive feedback. We leveraged this knowledge to engineer control policies that regulate trunk orientation and postural sway in real-time. This dynamical postural interface immediately improved stepping quality in all rats regardless of broad differences in deficits. These results emphasize the importance of trunk regulation to optimize performance during rehabilitation.
(Pro)renin receptor is involved in mesangial fibrosis and matrix expansion
Authors: Narumi Kaori , Sato Emiko , Hirose Takuo , Yamamoto Tae , Nakamichi Takashi , Miyazaki Mariko , Sato Hiroshi , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: January 2018

(Pro)renin receptor [(P)RR] is expressed in the kidney and is involved in renal injury. Although (P)RR is activated by indoxyl sulfate (IS) and may be related to renal injury, the details remain unclear. We used mouse mesangial cell line SV40 MES13 to investigate the association of (P)RR with mesangial fibrosis or expansion. Furthermore, we examined the correlation between serum soluble (P)RR [s(P)RR] and various laboratory data including serum IS, a uremic toxin that induces renal fibrosis through (P)RR, and pathological indices in chronic kidney disease and particularly in IgA nephropathy patients. In vitro study using SV40 MES13 cells revealed that (P)RR expression significantly increased in the presence of IS. IS stimulated the fibrotic factors’ expression, which was significantly suppressed by (P)RR knockdown. Moreover, it significantly increased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 via the ERK1/2 pathway. In addition, the s(P)RR level significantly correlated with serum IS and mesangial injury markers in our patients. Our results suggest that (P)RR is associated with mesangial fibrosis and matrix expansion through the IS-(P)RR-ERK1/2 pathway. Clinically, s(P)RR may be a biomarker of mesangial fibrosis and matrix expansion.
Enhanced RF Behavior Multi-Layer Thermal Insulation
Authors: Mazzinghi A. , Sabbadini M. , Freni A.
Published: January 2018

This paper shows that it is possible to exploit the modulated metasurface concept to control the unwanted coupling between antennas that are installed on the same satellite. The metasurface is combined with a Multi-Layer thermal Insulation blanket to reduce its specular reflection by spreading the energy incoherently in the surrounding space. In the design, sub-wavelength radiating elements printed on thin substrate have been used to make the metasurface response azimuthally independent, and to keep the weight of blanket down. The comparison between simulations and measurements confirms the validity of the idea.
Discovering viral genomes in human metagenomic data by predicting unknown protein families
Authors: Barrientos-Somarribas Mauricio , Messina David N. , Pou Christian , Lysholm Fredrik , Bjerkner Annelie , Allander Tobias , Andersson Björn , Sonnhammer Erik L. L.
Published: January 2018

Massive amounts of metagenomics data are currently being produced, and in all such projects a sizeable fraction of the resulting data shows no or little homology to known sequences. It is likely that this fraction contains novel viruses, but identification is challenging since they frequently lack homology to known viruses. To overcome this problem, we developed a strategy to detect ORFan protein families in shotgun metagenomics data, using similarity-based clustering and a set of filters to extract bona fide protein families. We applied this method to 17 virus-enriched libraries originating from human nasopharyngeal aspirates, serum, feces, and cerebrospinal fluid samples. This resulted in 32 predicted putative novel gene families. Some families showed detectable homology to sequences in metagenomics datasets and protein databases after reannotation. Notably, one predicted family matches an ORF from the highly variable Torque Teno virus (TTV). Furthermore, follow-up from a predicted ORFan resulted in the complete reconstruction of a novel circular genome. Its organisation suggests that it most likely corresponds to a novel bacteriophage in the microviridae family, hence it was named bacteriophage HFM.
Nitrogen implantation with a scanning electron microscope
Authors: Becker S. , Raatz N. , Jankuhn St. , John R. , Meijer J.
Published: January 2018

Established techniques for ion implantation rely on technically advanced and costly machines like particle accelerators that only few research groups possess. We report here about a new and surprisingly simple ion implantation method that is based upon a widespread laboratory instrument: The scanning electron microscope. We show that it can be utilized to ionize atoms and molecules from the restgas by collisions with electrons of the beam and subsequently accelerate and implant them into an insulating sample by the effect of a potential building up at the sample surface. Our method is demonstrated by the implantation of nitrogen ions into diamond and their subsequent conversion to nitrogen vacancy centres which can be easily measured by fluorescence confocal microscopy. To provide evidence that the observed centres are truly generated in the way we describe, we supplied a 98% isotopically enriched 15N gas to the chamber, whose natural abundance is very low. By employing the method of optically detected magnetic resonance, we were thus able to verify that the investigated centres are actually created from the 15N isotopes. We also show that this method is compatible with lithography techniques using e-beam resist, as demonstrated by the implantation of lines using PMMA.
Promoting Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-driven Biomineralization and Periodontal Regeneration in Rats with Maxillary-Molar Defects using Injectable BMP-6 Hydrogel
Authors: Chien Ke-Hung , Chang Yuh-Lih , Wang Mong-Lien , Chuang Jen-Hua , Yang Ya-Chi , Tai Ming-Cheng , Wang Chien-Ying , Liu Yung-Yang , Li Hsin-Yang , Chen Jiang-Torng , Kao Shou-Yen , Chen Hen-Li , Lo Wen-Liang
Published: January 2018

Periodontal disease may cause considerable destruction of alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments (PDLs) and cementum and even lead to progressive oral dysfunction. Periodontal tissue regeneration is the ultimate goal of periodontal disease treatment to reconstruct both structures and functions. However, the regenerative efficiency is low, possibly due to the lack of a proper periodontal microenvironment. In this study, we applied an injectable and thermosensitive chitosan/gelatin/glycerol phosphate hydrogel to provide a 3D environment for transplanted stem cells and to enhance stem cell delivery and engraftment. The iPSCs-BMP-6-hydrogel complex promoted osteogenesis and the differentiation of new connective tissue and PDL formation. In animal models of maxillary-molar defects, the iPSCs-BMP-6-hydrogel-treated group showed significant mineralization with increased bone volume, trabecular number and trabecular thickness. Synergistic effects of iPSCs and BMP-6 increased both bone and cementum formation. IPSCs-BMP-6-hydrogel-treated animals showed new bone synthesis (increased ALP- and TRAP-positive cells), new PDL regeneration (shown through Masson’s trichrome staining and a qualification assay), and reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that hydrogel-encapsulated iPSCs combined with BMP-6 provide a new strategy to enhance periodontal regeneration. This combination not only promoted stem cell-derived graft engraftment but also minimized the progress of inflammation, which resulted in highly possible periodontal regeneration.
Dietary soybean meal affects intestinal homoeostasis by altering the microbiota, morphology and inflammatory cytokine gene expression in northern snakehead
Authors: Miao Shuyan , Zhao Chenze , Zhu Jinyu , Hu Juntao , Dong Xiaojing , Sun Longsheng
Published: January 2018

A 63-day feeding trial was conducted in northern snakehead to observe the effects of a dietary soybean meal substitution on the microbiota community, morphology and inflammatory cytokine gene expression in the intestine. Four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets containing increasing levels of soybean meal were used to replace 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% of the defatted fishmeal (diets are referred to G1, G2, G3 and G4, respectively). Different dietary soybean meal substitutions significantly affected the intestinal microbiota composition. At the phylum level, Firmicutes abundance was the lowest in the G4 group, in contrast with Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Planctomycetes. At the genus level, significantly lower abundance ofLactococcus,Geobacillus,Pseudomonas,Streptococcus,BacillusandAcinetobacter,but higher abundance ofCetobacterium,Planctomyces,Shewanella,Thermomonas,RubrivivaxandCarnobacteriumwas observed in fish fed the G4 diet. With increased dietary soybean meal, the thickness of the muscularis, the height of the fold and the height of the microvillus in the distal intestine decreased, but the relative expression of IL-1β, IL-10 and IL-17F was significantly up-regulated. In conclusion, more emphasis should be placed on the functionality of intestinal microbiota and the pathogenesis of mucosal inflammation to assess the effects of diet and fish intestinal health through intestinal microbiota profiling.
MHC class I expression in intestinal cells is reduced by rotavirus infection and increased in bystander cells lacking rotavirus antigen
Authors: Holloway Gavan , Fleming Fiona E. , Coulson Barbara S.
Published: January 2018

Detection of viral infection by host cells leads to secretion of type I interferon, which induces antiviral gene expression. The class I major histocompatibility complex (MHCI) is required for viral antigen presentation and subsequent infected cell killing by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. STAT1 activation by interferon can induce NLRC5 expression, promoting MHCI expression. Rotavirus, an important pathogen, blocks interferon signalling through inhibition of STAT1 nuclear translocation. We assessed MHCI expression in HT-29 intestinal epithelial cells following rotavirus infection. MHCI levels were upregulated in a partially type I interferon-dependent manner in bystander cells lacking rotavirus antigen, but not in infected cells. MHCI and NLRC5 mRNA expression also was elevated in bystander, but not infected, cells, suggesting a transcriptional block in infected cells. STAT1 was activated in bystander and infected cells, but showed nuclear localisation in bystander cells only. Overall, the lack of MHCI upregulation in rotavirus-infected cells may be at least partially due to rotavirus blockade of interferon-induced STAT1 nuclear translocation. The reduced MHCI protein levels in infected cells support the existence of an additional, non-transcriptional mechanism that reduces MHCI expression. It is possible that rotavirus also may suppress MHCI expression in vivo, which might limit T cell-mediated killing of rotavirus-infected enterocytes.
Correlative Factors of the Deterioration of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Small for Gestational Age Newborns
Authors: Luo Lijuan , Dong Wenbin , Zhang Lingping , Zhai Xuesong , Li Qingping , Lei Xiaoping
Published: January 2018

Small for gestational age (SGA) infants have an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), but SGA has been found to not be a risk factor for the deterioration of NEC in previous literature. Few studies have focused on correlative factors of the progression of NEC in SGA newborns. The present retrospective observational study was performed in 64 SGA infants with Bell’s stage II NEC. The dependent variable was Bell’s stage II NEC that progressed to stage III after diagnosis. A stepwise forward multivariate logistic regression model was used to select potential correlative factors for the progression of NEC in SGA newborns. The results showed that elevation of CRP after NEC diagnosis (aOR 39.21, 95% CI 6.62–249.2) has an increased risk for deteriorating Bell’s stage II NEC. In contrast, NEC in infants with congenital heart disease had a decreased risk of deterioration (aOR 0.11, 95% CI 0.01–0.92). Our findings indicated that serial CRP measurements post NEC diagnosis may be useful in predicting the deterioration of NEC.
Fast ion transport through ultrathin shells of metal sulfide hollow nanocolloids used for high-performance energy storage
Authors: Chen Zhenhua , Zhao Mengen , Lv Xinyan , Zhou Kang , Jiang Xiaoqian , Ren Xiuli , Mei Xifan
Published: January 2018

Metal sulfide (MS, nickel sulfide/copper sulfide) hollow spheres with hierarchical, ultrathin shell structures have been constructed by a facile method. The as-formed MS hollow structures are shown to be uniform in sizes with hierarchical ultrathin shells, which could facilitate the transport of electrolyte ions. Electrochemical evaluations of the as-fabricated MS based materials as supercapacitors electrodes having high large surface area (106–124 m2 g−1) and high specific capacitances (up to 1460 F g−1) with good cycling stability (up to 94% retention after 5000 cycles), showing their potential applications in the next-generation high-performance supercapacitors used for energy storage.
Creating flexible motor memories in human walking
Authors: Leech Kristan A. , Roemmich Ryan T. , Bastian Amy J.
Published: January 2018

The human nervous system has the ability to save newly learned movements (i.e. re-learn faster after initial learning) and generalize learning to new conditions. In the context of walking, we rely on savings and generalization of newly learned walking patterns to navigate changing environments and make progressive improvements with gait rehabilitation. Here, we used a split-belt treadmill to study how different perturbation parameters can influence savings and generalization of learning during walking. In Experiment 1, we investigated the effect of split perturbation size on savings of a newly learned walking pattern. We found that larger perturbations led to better savings than smaller perturbations. In Experiment 2, we studied how different features of the initial split perturbation influenced the generalization of learning. Interestingly, we found that practicing the same thing twice did not lead to fastest learning. Instead, initial exposure to larger perturbation ratios led to faster subsequent learning of smaller perturbation ratios as compared to repeated exposures to small perturbations. Collectively, our findings reveal that initial learning conditions can be leveraged to increase savings and shape flexible motor memories during walking.
Integrated Analysis of Gene Expression Differences in Twins Discordant for Disease and Binary Phenotypes
Authors: Tangirala Sivateja , Patel Chirag J.
Published: January 2018

While both genes and environment contribute to phenotype, deciphering environmental contributions to phenotype is a challenge. Furthermore, elucidating how different phenotypes may share similar environmental etiologies also is challenging. One way to identify environmental influences is through a discordant monozygotic (MZ) twin study design. Here, we assessed differential gene expression in MZ discordant twin pairs (affected vs. non-affected) for seven phenotypes, including chronic fatigue syndrome, obesity, ulcerative colitis, major depressive disorder, intermittent allergic rhinitis, physical activity, and intelligence quotient, comparing the spectrum of genes differentially expressed across seven phenotypes individually. Second, we performed meta-analysis for each gene to identify commonalities and differences in gene expression signatures between the seven phenotypes. In our integrative analyses, we found that there may be a common gene expression signature (with small effect sizes) across the phenotypes; however, differences between phenotypes with respect to differentially expressed genes were more prominently featured. Therefore, defining common environmentally induced pathways in phenotypes remains elusive. We make our work accessible by providing a new database (DiscTwinExprDB:http://apps.chiragjpgroup.org/disctwinexprdb/) for investigators to study non-genotypic influence on gene expression.
Neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein is implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis symptoms
Authors: Kano Osamu , Tanaka Kazunori , Kanno Takuya , Iwasaki Yasuo , Ikeda Joh-E
Published: January 2018

The delineation of the molecular pathology underlying amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is being hampered by the lack of suitable biomarkers. We have previously reported that bromocriptine upregulates the endogenous antioxidative factor, neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP), sustains motor function and slows disease progression in ALS patients, implying the NAIP’s implication in ALS. Here, we aimed to verify a correlation of NAIP level with disease progression in ALS patients. The amount of NAIP in mononuclear cells (MNC) from peripheral blood from ALS patients (n = 18) and the age matched healthy controls (n = 12) was validated by NAIP-Dot blotting. Notably, the MNC-NAIP level in ALS patients (0.62 ± 0.29 ng) was nearly half of that in the healthy controls (1.34 ± 0.61 ng, P = 0.0019). Furthermore, the MNC-NAIP level in ALS patients and their ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R) score were evaluated through 1 year. Regression analysis of the MNC-NAIP vs ALSFRS-R indicated that a higher amount of MNC-NAIP was associated with a smaller change in ALSFRS-R at 12 months (R2 = 0.799; P = 0.016), suggesting that a progressive increment of the MNC-NAIP led to slower ALS progression. Our present report implies that NAIP will have broad implications for ALS symptoms as a risk factor and a promising prognostic biomarker.
Segmented cell analyses to measure redox states of autofluorescent NAD(P)H, FAD & Trp in cancer cells by FLIM
Authors: Wallrabe Horst , Svindrych Zdenek , Alam Shagufta R. , Siller Karsten H. , Wang Tianxiong , Kashatus David , Hu Song , Periasamy Ammasi
Published: January 2018

Multiphoton FLIM microscopy offers many opportunities to investigate processes in live cells, tissue and animal model systems. For redox measurements, FLIM data is mostly published by cell mean values and intensity-based redox ratios. Our method is based entirely on FLIM parameters generated by 3-detector time domain microscopy capturing autofluorescent signals of NAD(P)H, FAD and novel FLIM-FRET application of Tryptophan and NAD(P)H-a2%/FAD-a1% redox ratio. Furthermore, image data is analyzed in segmented cells thresholded by 2 × 2 pixel Regions of Interest (ROIs) to separate mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation from cytosolic glycolysis in a prostate cancer cell line. Hundreds of data points allow demonstration of heterogeneity in response to intervention, identity of cell responders to treatment, creating thereby different sub-populations. Histograms and bar charts visualize differences between cells, analyzing whole cell versus mitochondrial morphology data, all based on discrete ROIs. This assay method allows to detect subtle differences in cellular and tissue responses, suggesting an advancement over means-based analyses.
Phenology Information Contributes to Reduce Temporal Basis Risk in Agricultural Weather Index Insurance
Authors: Dalhaus Tobias , Musshoff Oliver , Finger Robert
Published: January 2018

Weather risks are an essential and increasingly important driver of agricultural income volatility. Agricultural insurances contribute to support farmers to cope with these risks. Among these insurances, weather index insurances (WII) are an innovative tool to cope with climatic risks in agriculture. Using WII, farmers receive an indemnification not based on actual yield reductions but are compensated based on a measured weather index, such as rainfall at a nearby weather station. The discrepancy between experienced losses and actual indemnification, basis risk, is a key challenge. In particular, specifications of WII used so far do not capture critical plant growth phases adequately. Here, we contribute to reduce basis risk by proposing novel procedures how occurrence dates and shifts of growth phases over time and space can be considered and test for their risk reducing potential. Our empirical example addresses drought risks in the critical growth phase around the anthesis stage in winter wheat production in Germany. We find spatially explicit, public and open databases of phenology reports to contribute to reduce basis risk and thus improve the attractiveness of WII. In contrast, we find growth stage modelling based on growing degree days (thermal time) not to result in significant improvements.
Innovative Linear Low Density Polyethylene Nanocomposite Films Reinforced with Organophilic Layered Double Hydroxides: Fabrication, Morphology and Enhanced Multifunctional Properties
Authors: Xie Jiazhuo , Wang Haijun , Wang Zhou , Zhao Qinghua , Yang Yuechao , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N. , Hao Lei , Xiao Zihao , Xu Jing
Published: January 2018

Herein, we reported the successful development of novel nanocomposite films based on linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) with enhanced anti-drop, optical, mechanical, thermal and water vapor barrier properties by introducing organophilic layered double hydroxides (OLDHs) nanosheets. OLDHs loadings were varied from 0–6 wt.%. Structural analyses using the Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) indicated that the OLDHs nanosheets were homogeneously dispersed with an ordered alignment in the LLDPE matrix. The LLDPE film containing 2 wt.% OLDHs (denoted as OLDHs-2) showed the optimal mechanical, thermal and water vapor barrier properties, whilst the anti-drop and optical performance of the films improved with increasing OLDHs content. The enhanced antidrop properties of the composite films relative to pristine LLDPE can be expected to effectively reduce agricultural losses to disease when the films are applied as agricultural films, whilst the superior light transmittance and water-retaining properties of the composite films will boost agricultural production. Results presented suggest that multifunctional LLDPE/OLDHs nanocomposites show great promise as low cost agricultural plastic films.
Climate Warming as a Possible Trigger of Keystone Mussel Population Decline in Oligotrophic Rivers at the Continental Scale
Authors: Bolotov Ivan N. , Makhrov Alexander A. , Gofarov Mikhail Yu. , Aksenova Olga V. , Aspholm Paul E. , Bespalaya Yulia V. , Kabakov Mikhail B. , Kolosova Yulia S. , Kondakov Alexander V. , Ofenböck Thomas , Ostrovsky Andrew N. , Popov Igor Yu. , von Proschwitz Ted , Rudzīte Mudīte , Rudzītis Māris , Sokolova Svetlana E. , Valovirta Ilmari , Vikhrev Ilya V. , Vinarski Maxim V. , Zotin Alexey A.
Published: January 2018

The effects of climate change on oligotrophic rivers and their communities are almost unknown, albeit these ecosystems are the primary habitat of the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel and its host fishes, salmonids. The distribution and abundance of pearl mussels have drastically decreased throughout Europe over the last century, particularly within the southern part of the range, but causes of this wide-scale extinction process are unclear. Here we estimate the effects of climate change on pearl mussels based on historical and recent samples from 50 rivers and 6 countries across Europe. We found that the shell convexity may be considered an indicator of the thermal effects on pearl mussel populations under warming climate because it reflects shifts in summer temperatures and is significantly different in viable and declining populations. Spatial and temporal modeling of the relationship between shell convexity and population status show that global climate change could have accelerated the population decline of pearl mussels over the last 100 years through rapidly decreasing suitable distribution areas. Simulation predicts future warming-induced range reduction, particularly in southern regions. These results highlight the importance of large-scale studies of keystone species, which can underscore the hidden effects of climate warming on freshwater ecosystems.
Demographic expansion of two Tamarix species along the Yellow River caused by geological events and climate change in the Pleistocene
Authors: Liang Hong-yan , Feng Zhi-pei , Pei Bing , Li Yong , Yang Xi-tian
Published: January 2018

The geological events and climatic fluctuations during the Pleistocene played important roles in shaping patterns of species distribution. However, few studies have evaluated the patterns of species distribution that were influenced by the Yellow River. The present work analyzed the demography of two endemic tree species that are widely distributed along the Yellow River, Tamarix austromongolica and Tamarix chinensis, to understand the role of the Yellow River and Pleistocene climate in shaping their distribution patterns. The most common chlorotype, chlorotype 1, was found in all populations, and its divergence time could be dated back to 0.19 million years ago (Ma). This dating coincides well with the formation of the modern Yellow River and the timing of Marine Isotope Stages 5e-6 (MIS 5e-6). Bayesian reconstructions along with models of paleodistribution revealed that these two species experienced a demographic expansion in population size during the Quaternary period. Approximate Bayesian computation analyses supported a scenario of expansion approximately from the upper to lower reaches of the Yellow River. Our results provide support for the roles of the Yellow River and the Pleistocene climate in driving demographic expansion of the populations of T. austromongolica and T. chinensis. These findings are useful for understanding the effects of geological events and past climatic fluctuations on species distribution patterns.
Image-guided Drug Delivery Systems Based on NIR-absorbing Nanocarriers for Photothermal-chemotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Wang Jinping , Tan Xiaoxiao , Pang Xiaojuan , You Qing , Liu Li , Sun Qi , Tan Fengping , Li Nan
Published: January 2018

In recent years, great efforts have been given to researching multifunctional nanoagents that combine diagnostic and therapeutic functions for highly efficient and low toxicity antitumor treatments. In particular, combining real-time imaging with spatially precise photothermal therapy mediated by nanoparticles responsive to near-infrared (NIR, λ = 700–1100 nm) light through conversion of photo energy into heat has attracted interest due to its simplicity, safety and noninvasiveness, as well as targeting and remote-control properties. Apart from being directly utilized for image guided photothermal ablation of cancer, the photothermal effect of NIR-absorbing organic nanomaterials has also been exploited for remotely controlled drug release. This photothermal-controlled drug delivery system provides promising approaches to reverse multidrug resistance, for which the poor cellular uptake and insufficient intracellular drug release remain the rate-limiting steps for reaching the drug concentration level within the therapeutic window. In this chapter, we will systematically discuss the latest progress in the development of organic and inorganic nanocarriers used as a photothermal-controlled drug delivery system for the combined photo-chemotherapy of cancer. Various types of NIR-absorbing nanocarriers developed for the delivery of drugs, as well as image-guided combined photothermal-chemotherapies, will be reviewed. The final section will address the future prospects and challenges in this rapidly growing field.
Magnetism-tuning strategies for graphene oxide based on magnetic oligoacene oxide patches model
Authors: Wen Yanjie , Yen Chia-Liang , Yan Linyin , Kono Hirohiko , Lin Sheng-Hsien , Ling Yong-Chien
Published: January 2018

Graphene oxide (GO) has wide application potential owing to its 2D structure and diverse modification sites for various targeted uses.
Experimental and modelling study of the multichannel thermal dissociations of CH3F and CH2F
Authors: Cobos C. J. , Knight G. , Sölter L. , Tellbach E. , Troe J.
Published: January 2018

The thermal unimolecular dissociation of CH3F was studied in shock waves by monitoring the UV absorption of a dissociation product identified as CH2F.
Self-assembly of high-index faceted gold nanocrystals to fabricate tunable coupled plasmonic superlattices
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Guan Chunlin , Song Ning , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Hong , Fang Jingzhong
Published: January 2018

A facile self-assembly strategy for the fabrication of tunable coupled plasmonic superlattices composed of unique high-index faceted gold nanocrystal units.
A high pressure study of calmodulin–ligand interactions using small-angle X-ray and elastic incoherent neutron scattering
Authors: Cinar Süleyman , Al-Ayoubi Samy , Sternemann Christian , Peters Judith , Winter Roland , Czeslik Claus
Published: January 2018

The inhibition of calmodulin by trifluoperazine is achieved by the formation of a compact pressure-stable complex.
Effects of particle size and annealing on plasmon-induced charge separation at self-assembled gold nanoparticle arrays
Authors: Kao Kun-Che , Nishi Hiroyasu , Tatsuma Tetsu
Published: January 2018

The internal quantum efficiency of plasmon-induced charge separation of a Au nanoparticle array on TiO2 without interparticle coupling increases with decreasing particle size. The efficiency is also improved by the enhancement of a plasmonic interface mode.
Melting-assisted solvent-free synthesis of hierarchical SAPO-34 with enhanced methanol to olefins (MTO) performance
Authors: Liu Ziyu , Ren Shu , Yu Xing , Chen Xinqing , Wang Gang , Wu Xian , Yu Gan , Qiu Minghuang , Yang Chengguang , Sun Yuhan
Published: January 2018

SAPO-34 zeolite with a butterfly patterned hierarchical pore system and high relative crystallinity was synthesized by a melting-assisted solvent-free route.
Synergistic gold–copper detoxification at the core of gold biomineralisation inCupriavidus metallidurans
Authors: Bütof L. , Wiesemann N. , Herzberg M. , Altzschner M. , Holleitner A. , Reith F. , Nies D. H.
Published: January 2018

Cupriavidus metalliduransescapes synergistic Cu/Au toxicity by re-oxidation of Au(i) back to Au(iii) using the periplasmic oxidase CopA.
Substrate-orientation dependent epitaxial growth of highly ordered diamond nanosheet arrays by chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Ji Xixi , Ao Yu , Yu Jie
Published: January 2018

Diamond nanosheets are grown by the in-plane epitaxy of the {111} planes of diamond substrates, forming different arrays depending on the substrate orientation.
Thermally induced alloying processes in a bimetallic system at the nanoscale: AgAu sub-5 nm core–shell particles studied at atomic resolution
Authors: Lasserus Maximilian , Schnedlitz Martin , Knez Daniel , Messner Roman , Schiffmann Alexander , Lackner Florian , Hauser Andreas W. , Hofer Ferdinand , Ernst Wolfgang E.
Published: January 2018

Alloying processes in nanometre-size Ag@Au and Au@Ag core@shell particles are studied via high resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) imaging.
Growth of regular nanometric molecular arrays on a functional 2D template based on a chemical guest–host approach
Authors: Feng Zhijing , Kladnik Gregor , Comelli Giovanni , Dri Carlo , Cossaro Albano
Published: January 2018

Crown ethers are grown on a regular 2D nanometric array by exploiting a chemical guest–host strategy based on the amino-carboxylic affinity.
An underwater superoleophobic nanofibrous cellulosic membrane for oil/water separation with high separation flux and high chemical stability
Authors: Hong Seong Kyung , Bae Seonghan , Jeon Hyungkook , Kim Minseo , Cho Seong J. , Lim Geunbae
Published: January 2018

A nanofibrous cellulosic membrane effectively separates large amounts of oil/water mixtures in chemically harsh environments at high fluxes.
Pressure induced photoluminescence modulation in a wide range and synthesis of monodispersed ternary AgCuS nanocrystal based on Ag2S nanocrystals
Authors: Wang Yingnan , Li Xiaoteng , Xu Manzhang , Wang Kai , Zhu Hongyang , Zhao Wu , Yan Junfeng , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: January 2018

Based on Ag2S NCs, we have modulated their PL in a large wavelength range via a high pressure approach and synthesized size tunable β-AgCuS NCs via an ion exchange process.
Magnetic bistability of a TbPc2 submonolayer on a graphene/SiC(0001) conductive electrode
Authors: Serrano G. , Velez-Fort E. , Cimatti I. , Cortigiani B. , Malavolti L. , Betto D. , Ouerghi A. , Brookes N. B. , Mannini M. , Sessoli R.
Published: January 2018

TbPc2 single-molecule magnets retain their magnetic bistability on graphene/SiC(0001) revealing promising properties for molecular spintronic applications.
Plasmonic metal–semiconductor photocatalysts and photoelectrochemical cells: a review
Authors: Wu Nianqiang
Published: January 2018

This article gives a comprehensive review of plasmonic metal–semiconductor photocatalysts and photoelectrochemical cells with an emphasis on materials design.
A fluorescent cross-linked supramolecular network formed by orthogonal metal-coordination and host–guest interactions for multiple ratiometric sensing
Authors: Xu Luonan , Chen Dong , Zhang Qian , He Tian , Lu Chenjie , Shen Xi , Tang Danting , Qiu Huayu , Zhang Mingming , Yin Shouchun
Published: January 2018

A supramolecular network can be used for the ratiometric sensing of pH, cyclen and Cl− due to the incorporation of two fluorophores and two non-covalent interactions.
Poly(N-acryloylglycinamide) microgels as nanocatalyst platform
Authors: Yang Dong , Viitasuo Milla , Pooch Fabian , Tenhu Heikki , Hietala Sami
Published: January 2018

We report the synthesis of thermophilic poly(N-acryloylglycinamide) (PNAGA) microgels that swell in water upon heating and their use as nanocatalyst hosts.
Sulfur–hydrazine hydrate-based chemical synthesis of sulfur@graphene composite for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Han Jianmei , Xi Baojuan , Feng Zhenyu , Ma Xiaojian , Zhang Junhao , Xiong Shenglin , Qian Yitai
Published: January 2018

A sulfur–hydrazine hydrate chemistry-based method is reported here to integrate the sulfur and N-doped reduced graphene oxide to obtain S@N-rGO composite with 76% sulfur. The as-obtained S@N-rGO composite displays a good rate capability and excellent stability.
A study on electrochemical properties of P2-type Na–Mn–Co–Cr–O cathodes for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Yanzhi , Tang Jiantao , Yang Xiduo , Huang Weiwei
Published: January 2018

The comprehensive electrochemical properties of P2-type Na–Co–Mn–O cathodes for sodium ion batteries could be significantly enhanced by optimal Cr-doping.
Highly improved visible-light-induced photocatalytic performance over BiOI/Ag2CO3 heterojunctions
Authors: Wang Nan , Shi Lei , Yao Lizhu , Lu Caiyun , Shi Yan , Sun Jianmin
Published: January 2018

The heterojunctions between BiOI and Ag2CO3 obviously improved visible-light-driven photocatalytic activity compared with separate BiOI and Ag2CO3 particles.
Silylated oligomeric poly(ether-azomethine)s from monomers containing biphenyl moieties: synthesis and characterization
Authors: Tundidor-Camba Alain , González-Henríquez Carmen M. , Sarabia-Vallejos Mauricio A. , Tagle Luis H. , Hauyón René A. , Sobarzo Patricio A. , González Alexis , Ortiz Pablo A. , Maya Eva M. , Terraza Claudio A.
Published: January 2018

In this study, four new silicon-containing poly(ether-azomethine)s with linear structures were prepared using original silicon and biphenyl moiety-containing monomers: two diamines and two dialdehydes.
Polyhydroxy gemini surfactant as a mechano-responsive rheology modifier for inverted emulsion drilling fluid
Authors: He Yinbo , Jiang Guancheng , Deng Zhengqiang , Liu Fan , Peng Shuanglei , Ni Xiaoxiao , Shi Yawei , Cui Wuge
Published: January 2018

The interfacial accumulation of PGS makes interfacial film gel-like and droplets attractive, resulting in mechano-responsive rheology modification for inverted emulsions.
Preparation of functionalized zirconium phosphate and its effect on the flame retardancy of silicone rubber
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Zeng Xingrong , Lai Xuejun , Li Hongqiang
Published: January 2018

A novel functionalized zirconium phosphate was prepared and it effectively enhanced the flame retardancy of silicone rubber by a small amount.
Through-silicon via submount for the CuO/Cu2O nanostructured field emission display
Authors: Lu Chun-Liang , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Hsueh Ting-Jen
Published: January 2018

A three dimensional (3D) field emission display structure was prepared using CuO/Cu2O composite nanowires (NWs) and a three dimensional through silicon via (3D-TSV) technique.
Influence of red palm oil on the physicochemical and sensory qualities of flavouring oil gravy for instant noodles
Authors: Wu Xiaojing , Wu Shimin , Ji Min , Yoong Jun Hao
Published: January 2018

The nutrition and flavour of instant noodles is largely attributed to added flavouring oil gravy.
Hexafluorophosphate salts with tropine-type cations in the extraction of alkaloids with the same nucleus from radix physochlainae
Authors: Dong Bing , Tang Jie , Yonannes Alula , Yao Shun
Published: January 2018

The principle of ‘like dissolves like’ was practiced through structural similarity and tropine-based ionic liquids were employed to extract natural tropane alkaloids.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of a B12-based catalyst co-photosensitized by TiO2 and Ru(ii) towards dechlorination
Authors: Sun Ying , Zhang Wei , Ma Tian-Yi , Zhang Yu , Shimakoshi Hisashi , Hisaeda Yoshio , Song Xi-Ming
Published: January 2018

The additivity of the contribution of the UV and visible parts of sunlight to electron transfer was confirmed in the B12–TiO2–Ru(ii) photocatalytic system.
Bio-inspired model of photosystem II: supramolecular assembly of an electron mediator into an SnO2 photoanode co-sensitized by a porphyrin photosensitizer and ruthenium molecular catalyst
Authors: Na Yong , Miao Siwen , Zhou Li , Wei Peicheng , Cao Yang
Published: January 2018

An electron mediator inspired by photosynthetic system II was incorporated via Zr4+ ion linkage into a porphyrin sensitized photoanode for water oxidation.
Closed Suction Drainage after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Erne Felix , Wetzel Stefanie , Wülker Nikolaus , Gesicki Marco , Hofmann Ulf
Published: January 2018

The discussion as to whether or not to use closed suction drainage (CSD) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is still ongoing. A multitude of surgical techniques makes comparison between studies difficult. The aim of the present study was to investigate the benefit of CSD versus nondrainage following primary TKA when operating after exsanguination (by means of a rubber Esmarch bandage) with a tourniquet and without any form of hemostasis. A prospective randomized trial was performed with a homogeneous sample of 36 patients with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were evaluated preoperatively, on a daily basis during their hospital stay, and at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. The use of CSD led to a significantly stronger drop in hemoglobin levels by approximately 1 g/dL (p = 0.012). Knee circumference, wound secretion, wound healing, and postoperative range of motion did not show significant differences. All discharge criteria were met in both groups by day 9. Interestingly, patients without CSD reported higher pain levels during the entire postoperative inpatient stay and also at the 6-week follow-up (p = 0.012). These differences could not be observed in longer follow-up. The use of CSD after primary TKA in this study did not lead to indispensable advantages but did lead to increased postoperative blood loss. When evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of the use of CSD after TKA from the data in the literature, special attention must be paid to the operating technique, as it has a strong impact on the results obtained.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome after Total Knee Arthroplasty is Rare and Misdiagnosis Potentially Hazardous—Prospective Study of the New Diagnostic Criteria in 100 Patients with No Cases Identified
Authors: Kosy Jonathan , Middleton Simon , Bradley Benjamin , Stroud Rowenna , Phillips Jonathan , Toms Andrew
Published: January 2018

Previous studies suggest that complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) occurs in up to 21% of patients following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, this diagnosis has a substantial impact on the patient's management if it is incorrect. We aimed to identify cases, using updated internationally accepted criteria, while investigating potential causes of misdiagnosis.

We prospectively studied a consecutive series of 100 primary TKA patients. Each patient was assessed 6-week post-TKA. Pain levels were recorded with the presence of symptoms and signs of CRPS (Budapest Diagnostic Criteria) assessed in those with excessive pain. An alternative diagnosis was sought, in these patients, including the presence of neuropathic pain.

We found no cases of CRPS (no patients had symptoms or signs in greater than two of four subgroups). Seventeen patients had excessive pain levels (nine had an alternative diagnosis explaining this). The commonest signs were sensory and sudomotor, whereas motor/trophic changes were not seen. Using a previous definition (Orlando Criteria), eight patients may have been diagnosed with CRPS. Over half of the patients with unexplained excessive pain had evidence of neuropathic pain.

CRPS is a rare diagnosis following TKA using modern criteria. Isolated signs and symptoms may lead to the overdiagnosis of CRPS in the presence of unexplained pain following TKA. New diagnostic criteria, with strict definitions and treatment algorithms, are now accepted. Delays in managing more common causes (such as neuropathic pain) may negatively affect the patient's outcome.
Serotype Distribution of Streptococcus pneumoniae causing Invasive Pneumococcal Disease at Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital in Rome: Is It Time for a New Vaccine?
Authors: Bozzola Elena , Krzysztofiak Andrzej , Pantosti Annausa , Lancella Laura , Bernaschi Paola , Marchili Maria , Villani Alberto , Nicolosi Luciana
Published: January 2018

Diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae are mostly preventable infections by current immunization programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the introduction of the heptavalent and the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV7 and PCV13) on the burden of pneumococcal disease and on the serotype distribution of S. pneumoniae causing invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPDs) in the pediatric age over a 5-year study (from January 2008 till December 2012). We observed a decrease in IPD rate in children after PCV13 introduction despite increases in nonvaccine serotype (NVS) rates in 2011. Nevertheless, from 2012, an increase in IPD rates due to non-PCV13 serotypes was observed.