bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the mixed problem for the semilinear Darcy‐Forchheimer‐Brinkman PDE system in Besov spaces on creased Lipschitz domains
Authors: Gutt Robert , Kohr Mirela , Mikhailov Sergey E. , Wendland Wolfgang L.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to study the mixed Dirichlet‐Neumann boundary value problem for the semilinear Darcy‐Forchheimer‐Brinkman system in Lp‐based Besov spaces on a bounded Lipschitz domain in
, with p in a neighborhood of 2. This system is obtained by adding the semilinear term |u|u to the linear Brinkman equation. First, we provide some results about equivalence between the Gagliardo and nontangential traces, as well as between the weak canonical conormal derivatives and the nontangential conormal derivatives. Various mapping and invertibility properties of some integral operators of potential theory for the linear Brinkman system, and well‐posedness results for the Dirichlet and Neumann problems in Lp‐based Besov spaces on bounded Lipschitz domains in
(n≥3) are also presented. Then, using integral potential operators, we show the well‐posedness in L2‐based Sobolev spaces for the mixed problem of Dirichlet‐Neumann type for the linear Brinkman system on a bounded Lipschitz domain in
(n≥3). Further, by using some stability results of Fredholm and invertibility properties and exploring invertibility of the associated Neumann‐to‐Dirichlet operator, we extend the well‐posedness property to some Lp‐based Sobolev spaces. Next, we use the well‐posedness result in the linear case combined with a fixed point theorem to show the existence and uniqueness for a mixed boundary value problem of Dirichlet and Neumann type for the semilinear Darcy‐Forchheimer‐Brinkman system in Lp‐based Besov spaces, with p∈(2−ε,2+ε) and some parameter ε>0.
Assessment of Microwave Effect on Polymerization Conducted under ARGET ATRP Conditions
Authors: Xie Zhi‐Kang , Guo Jun‐Kang , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: October 2017

A comprehensive kinetic model based on the method of moments is developed for understanding the kinetics of activators regenerated by electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET ATRP) under microwave irradiation. Both the experimental data and the simulation results show that the polymerization under microwave irradiation is much faster than the thermal polymerization. Simulation results indicate that the acceleration of polymerization can be attributed to the increase of propagation rate coefficient and the radical generation by microwave irradiation. Kinetic behaviors, such as the effect of catalyst concentration and initial initiator, are investigated in detail. Results show that the catalyst concentration has negligible influence on polymerization rate while the initiator concentration can affect both the molecular weight and the reaction rate. In conclusion, this work thoroughly investigates the kinetic mechanism of ARGET ATRP under microwave irradiation, providing both theoretic and experimental supports to improve the product property of polymer materials.
Densely packed polymer/boron nitride composite for superior anisotropic thermal conductivity
Authors: Zhu Zhijia , Wang Pengxiang , Lv Peng , Xu Tianhao , Zheng Jiajin , Ma Chen , Yu Kehan , Feng Wei , Wei Wei , Chen Liangyao
Published: October 2017

High heat conduction performance of electrical insulating composite is highly desired in thermal management of electronics. In this study, densely packed boron nitride (BN) composites with resin matrices of epoxy, polymethyl methacrylate, and an acrylic copolymer based binder were prepared through a solvent mediated mixing and compression molding method. The solvent mediated mixing assisted homogeneous dispersion; the compression molding removed excessive resin and led to alignment of BN flakes with high filler content. The resulted composites exhibited superior in‐plane thermal conductivity k// up to 21.3 W/mK and pronounced anisotropic heat conduction properties. The thermal conductivity was positively correlated with density
of a specimen in experimental. A presentation of thermal conductivity
was proposed, and the dependence of thermal conductivity on specimen density
was proven mathematically. The application of BN composite in LED thermal management was demonstrated. An epoxy/BN heat spreader was used to efficiently cool down a 0.3‐W LED. The cooling effect was close to that with Al board heat spreader. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1653–E1658, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of bio‐based polyurethanes obtained from castor oil and poly (3‐hydroxybutyrate) and their nanocomposites
Authors: Abdel Aziz Mohamed S. , Elsoholy Mahmoud Gebril , Saad Gamal R.
Published: October 2017

Bio‐based polyurethanes (PUs) were synthesized from castor oil (CO) and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate)‐diol (PHB‐diol) using 1,6‐hexamethylene diisocyanate, as nontoxic connecting agent. The PHB content in the obtained PUs was adjusted from 0 to 60.0 wt%. The synthesis was carried out by one pot solution polymerization. PUs nanocomposites loaded with different contents of cloisite®25A (C25A) were prepared by means of in situ solution polymerization. The molecular structure of the obtained PUs was confirmed by FT‐IR. The thermal properties of the neat PUs and the resulting nanocomposites were investigated using DSC and TGA. It was found that the cold crystallization of the PHB component was enhanced, while its melt crystallization was retarded with increasing its own content in the PUs. The incorporated C25A in the PU matrix shifted the cold crystallization peak to higher temperature. TGA studies reveal that neat PUs and nanocomposites exhibited three main decompositions steps. The thermal stability of the neat PUs decreased with increasing the PHB content and increased with increasing the C25A content. Tensile mechanical testing revealed that increasing the content of the PHB and C25A made the PUs rigid and strong. The elastic modulus and ultimate tensile strength of the neat PUs were found to increase with increasing the PHB content and enhanced with incorporation of C25A, while the elongation decreased with increasing the PHB and C25A content. The equilibrium swelling in 1,2‐dichloroethane decreased with increasing both the PHB and C25A content in PU matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E489–E499, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Interpersonal barriers to recovery from borderline personality disorder: A qualitative analysis of patient perspectives
Authors: Carmel Adam , Torres Nicole I. , Chalker Samantha , Comtois Katherine Anne
Published: October 2017

Social‐environmental factors have been found to be an integral part in the recovery process for individuals with psychiatric disabilities. There are few studies that have obtained patient perspectives of how their social and treatment environments help facilitate or impede the recovery process. The following study examined the self‐reported interpersonal barriers to recovery among a sample of individuals (N = 31) with borderline personality disorder who were receiving dialectical behaviour therapy. The goal of study was to identify self‐reported problematic behaviour that interferes with recovery goals and identify types of family, friend and/or provider behaviours that increased the likelihood of patients engaging in these problematic behaviours. A content analysis yielded three themes of problematic behaviour, and how these behaviours were reinforced by others, including (1) avoidance behaviours, (2) encouragement of negative coping and (3) communication of low behavioural expectations. Implications for the impact of these patterns of reinforcement within behavioural health settings are discussed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of and lipopolysaccharide binding to the E. coliLptC protein dimer
Authors: Schultz Kathryn M. , Klug Candice S.
Published: October 2017

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) is the major component of the outer leaflet of the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium. LPS is a large lipid containing several acyl chains as its hydrophobic base and numerous sugars as its hydrophilic core and O‐antigen domains, and is an essential element of the organisms' natural defenses in adverse environmental conditions. LptC is one of seven members of the lipopolysaccharide transport (Lpt) protein family that functions to transport LPS from the inner membrane (IM) to the outer leaflet of the outer membrane of the bacterium. LptC is anchored to the IM and associated with the IM LptFGB2 complex. It is hypothesized that LPS binds to LptC at the IM, transfers to LptA to cross the periplasm, and is inserted by LptDE into the outer leaflet of the outer membrane. The studies described here comprehensively characterize and quantitate the binding of LPS to LptC. Site‐directed spin labeling electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy was utilized to characterize the LptC dimer in solution and monitor spin label mobility changes at 10 sites across the protein upon addition of exogenous LPS. The results indicate that soluble LptC forms concentration‐independent N‐terminal dimers in solution, LptA binding does not change the conformation of the LptC dimer nor appreciably disrupt the LptC dimer in vitro, and LPS binding affects the entire LptC protein, with the center and C‐terminal regions showing a greater affinity for LPS than the N‐terminal domain, which has similar dissociation constants to LptA.
Impact of H‐Uptake from Forming Gas Annealing and Ion Implantation on the Photoluminescence of Si Nanoparticles
Authors: Chulapakorn Thawatchart , Primetzhofer Daniel , Sychugov Ilya , Suvanam Sethu Saveda , Linnros Jan , Hallén Anders
Published: October 2017

Silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) are formed by implanting 70 keV Si+ into a SiO2‐film and subsequent thermal annealing. SiNP samples are further annealed in forming gas. Another group of samples containing SiNP is implanted by 7.5 keV H+ and subsequently annealed in N2‐atmosphere at 450 °C to reduce implantation damage. Nuclear reaction analysis (NRA) is employed to establish depth profiles of the H‐concentration. Enhanced hydrogen concentrations are found close to the SiO2 surface, with particularly high concentrations for the as‐implanted SiO2. However, no detectable uptake of hydrogen is observed by NRA for samples treated by forming gas annealing (FGA). H‐concentrations detected after H‐implantation follow calculated implantation profiles. Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy is performed at room temperature to observe the SiNP PL. Whereas FGA is found to increase PL under certain conditions, i.e., annealing at high temperatures, increasing implantation fluence of H reduces the SiNP PL. Hydrogen implantation also introduces additional defect PL. After low‐temperature annealing, the SiNP PL is found to improve, but the process is not found equivalently efficient as conventional FGA.
Silicon Nanocrystals: From Indirect to Direct Bandgap
Authors: Kůsová Kateřina
Published: October 2017

Silicon nanocrystals are very interesting light‐emitting materials due to the abundance and low inherent toxicity of silicon. Although the ability of silicon in the form of nanocrystals to emit light has been known for more than 25 years now, the fundamental research still has not answered all the questions regarding the origin of this light emission. In this paper, a brief summary of what is known about light emission of this material is provided and some of the recent developments in this field are highlighted.
Magnetically Tunable Photocurrent in La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/BaSnO3 Heterojunctions
Authors: Luo Bingcheng , Hu Junbiao , Wang Jing
Published: October 2017

Artificially constructed oxide heterointerfaces have attracted much attention. Herein, the novel all‐perovskite p‐n heterojunction composed of a colossal magnetoresistive manganite La0.7Sr0.3 MnO3 (LSMO) and an n‐type transparent semiconducting BaSnO3 (BSO) is designed via optimizing the growth condition. This LSMO/BSO p‐n junction exhibits good rectification with a forward‐to‐reverse ratio of 275 at 1 V, high photo detection capability with a photo‐to‐dark current of 581.9 at ‐0.5 V, high ultraviolet light sensitivity with a UV (360 nm)‐to‐visible (532 nm) ratio of ∼2.4 × 103, and a significantly magneto‐tunable photocurrent with a variation ratio of ∼1.25 % under 532 nm illumination and 0.5 T magnetic field. As a result, combining synergistically the functionality of diode and magnetically tunable photo detector, the LSMO/BSO p‐n junction is a promising candidate for advanced magneto‐optoelectronic devices.
Density‐functional theory study of the interaction mechanism and optical properties of flavonols on the boron nitride nanotubes
Authors: Fan Guohong , Zhu Sheng , Xu Hong
Published: October 2017

The flavonols are natural pigments with multiple colors. They are found ubiquitously in plants and are relevant to flower colors and the UV protection in plants. Their antioxidant, anticancer, and anti‐allergic features attract researchers much attention to explore their potential applications in biological and nanomedical areas. In this study, the interaction mechanism and optical properties of four representative flavonols, on both the surface and confined in the single‐walled boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), have been explored comparatively by self‐consistent density‐functional based tight‐binding method (SCC‐DFTB) and density‐functional theory (DFT). The results indicate a stronger binding when flavonols are confined inside the BNNTs. The influence of mutual interaction between flavonols and BNNTs on the excited properties and UV/vis feature of the complex structure was studied by time‐dependent DFT. Due to the interaction of flavonols with BNNTs and the weakness of the intramolecular hydrogen bond, our results indicate a red‐shift of the flavonol spectra when they are outside or inside the tube. The study concludes that the properties of flavonols can be fine‐tuned by the interaction with BNNTs.
Transport layer performance combining multipath and network coding in mobile satellite networks
Authors: Giambene Giovanni , Luong Doanh Kim , Le Van Anh , de Cola Tomaso , Muhammad Muhammad
Published: October 2017

Satellite networks are expected to support multimedia traffic flows, offering high capacity with quality of service guarantees. In this paper, we consider future satellite networks able to exploit multiple paths to reach mobile users also by means of a terrestrial complementary coverage. The interest is to exploit the path diversity by adopting network coding at a shim layer between Internet protocol and media access control. We have proposed several variants of network‐coding schemes with different organizations in terms of interflow and intraflow encoding, where the packets generated by the encoder are split and sent on different paths. Our path‐based network coding (PBNC) techniques have been combined with multipath transmission control protocol (MPTCP) and TCP at transport layer, thus obtaining PBNC‐MPTCP and PBNC‐TCP. We have evaluated the performance of these techniques by means of Ns‐2 simulations. A cross‐layer criterion has been adopted to determine the settings of the encoders. Our PBNC‐based schemes have shown better goodput performance than a benchmark scheme considering 2 different scenarios (one with symmetrical paths and one with unbalanced paths) in the presence of GOOD/BAD mobile channels.
Phosphate‐Responsive Biomimetic Nanofluidic Diodes Regulated by Polyamine–Phosphate Interactions: Insights into Their Functional Behavior from Theory and Experiment
Authors: Pérez‐Mitta Gonzalo , Marmisollé Waldemar A. , Albesa Alberto G. , Toimil‐Molares María Eugenia , Trautmann Christina , Azzaroni Omar
Published: October 2017

There is currently high interest in developing nanofluidic devices whose iontronic output is defined by biological interactions. The fabrication of a phosphate responsive nanofluidic diode by using the biological relevant amine–phosphate interactions is shown. The fabrication procedure includes the modification of a track‐etched asymmetric (conical) nanochannel with polyallylamine (PAH) by electrostatic self‐assembly. PAH is the arcaetypical model of polyamine and it is further used to address the nanochannels with phosphate responsivity. In order to explore the influence that phosphate in solution has in the conductance of the modified nanochannels, current–voltage measurements using different concentrations of phosphates are performed. Furthermore, to have a complete physicochemical understanding of the system, experimental data is analyzed using a continuous model based on Poison–Nernst–Planck equations and compared with results obtained from stochastic Monte Carlo simulations.
Carbon Textile Decorated with Pseudocapacitive VC/VxOy for High‐Performance Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Van Lam Do , Shim Hyung Cheoul , Kim Jae‐Hyun , Lee Hak‐Joo , Lee Seung‐Mo
Published: October 2017

It is demonstrated that, via V2O5 coating by low temperature atomic layer deposition and subsequent pyrolysis, ubiquitous cotton textile can readily turn into high‐surface‐area carbon textile fully decorated with pseudocapacitive VxOy/VC widely usable as electrodes of high‐performance supercapacitor. It is found that carbothermic reduction of V2O5 (C + V2O5 → C′ + VC + CO/CO2(g)) leads to chemical/mechanical activation of carbon textile, thereby producing high‐surface‐area conductive carbon textile. In addition, sequential phase transformation and carbide formation (V2O5 → VxOy → VC) occurred by carbothermic reduction trigger decoration of the carbon textile with redox‐active VxOy/VC. Thanks to the synergistic effect of electrical double layer and pseudocapacitance, the supercapacitors made of the hybrid carbon textile exhibit far better energy density (over 30‐fold increase) with excellent cycling stability than the carbon textile simply undergone pyrolysis. The method can open up a promising and facile way to synthesize hybrid electrode materials for electrochemical energy storages possessing advantages of both electrical double layer and pseudocapacitive material.
Seroepidemiology and assessment of risk factors for the spread of avian influenza in birds in two Nigerian states
Authors: Waziri Musa Ibrahim , Abdu Paul A. , Sa'idu Lawal , Bello Mohammed
Published: October 2017

Despite modified stamping out eradication policy adopted in Nigeria, there was resurgence in 2015 of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 with greater infectivity. A survey of the risk of spread of HPAI in two HPAI‐infected and ‐uninfected Nigerian states were studied. A cross‐sectional study to detect avian influenza (AI) H5 antibodies was conducted using haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A total of 950 birds’ sera were tested for AI H5 antibodies. Questionnaires were also administered to evaluate risks of AI spread in two states of Nigeria in 2013. AI H5 seroprevalence of 3% and 5% were obtained in Bauchi and Gombe states, respectively. Free flying and captive wild birds had 15% and 11% seroprevalence, respectively. Ninety‐two per cent AI awareness and 90% preparedness to report outbreaks of poultry diseases were recorded. Veterinary personnel, radio and television contributed 87% to HPAI awareness. Of the 10 risk categories evaluated, Gombe state had 3 moderate and 1 high risk of AI virus spread. Bauchi state recorded 5 moderate and 1 high risk of AI virus spread. Chi‐square analysis showed associations of altitude, temperature, rainfall and presence of live bird markets (LBMs) (P < 0.05) to AI seroprevalence. Odds ratio at 95% CI (1.313–6.333) indicated LBMs presence to be three times more likely to influence AI occurrence. HPAI H5N1 resurged in many states and occurred for the first time in Gombe state in 2015. Veterinary personnel, radio and television may be reliable in changing farmers’ attitudes to adopt good biosecurity practices.
Human heterologous liver cells transiently improve hyperammonemia and ureagenesis in individuals with severe urea cycle disorders
Authors: Meyburg Jochen , Opladen Thomas , Spiekerkötter Ute , Schlune Andrea , Schenk Jens‐Peter , Schmidt Jan , Weitz Jürgen , Okun Jürgen , Bürger Friederike , Omran Tawfeg Ben , Abdoh Ghassan , Al Rifai Hilal , Monavari Ahmad , Konstantopoulou Vassiliki , Kölker Stefan , Yudkoff Marc , Hoffmann Georg F.
Published: October 2017

Background

Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) still have a poor prognosis despite several therapeutic advancements. As liver transplantation can provide a cure, liver cell therapy (LCT) might be a new therapeutic option in these patients.

Methods

Twelve patients with severe UCDs were included in this prospective clinical trial. Patients received up to six infusions of cryopreserved human heterologous liver cells via a surgically placed catheter in the portal vein. Portal vein pressure, portal vein flow, and vital signs were monitored continuously. Calcineurin inhibitors and steroids were used for immunosuppression. In four patients, ureagenesis was determined with stable isotopes. Number and severity of hyperammonemic events and side effects of immunosuppression were analyzed during an observation period of up to 2 years.

Results

No study‐related mortality was observed. The application catheter dislocated in two children. No significant side effects of catheter application or cell infusion were noted in the other ten patients. The overall incidence of infections did not differ significantly from a historical control group, and no specific side effects of immunosuppression were found. Seven patients were treated per protocol and could be analyzed for efficacy. Severe metabolic crises could be prevented in all of these patients, moderate crises in four of seven. Ureagenesis increased after cell infusion in all patients investigated.

Conclusions

We found a favorable safety profile with respect to catheter placement, intraportal liver cell infusion, and immunosuppression. More than half of the children treated per protocol experienced metabolic stabilization and could be safely bridged to liver transplantation.
Assessment of Current Genetic Counselor Practices in Post‐Visit Written Communications to Patients
Authors: VandenBoom Emily , Trepanier Angela M. , Carmany Erin P.
Published: October 2017

Providing patients with post‐visit written communication (PVWC) is a long‐standing component of genetic counseling. However the depiction of this practice in today's clinical landscape is limited. To better describe this practice, we surveyed practicing clinical genetic counselors to ask if they send post‐visit communications to patients and if so, what are the types, the average length, and the average time spent writing. They were also asked the perceived purpose of providing PVWC, if/how the practice has changed over time, and factors influencing the practice. Eighty three percent (233/280) of participants reported sending patients PVWC. Of those, 93% sent at least one communication written in patient‐friendly language. The type of communication varied by specialty. Prenatal genetic counselors were less likely to send patient‐specific letters and hybrid letters (defined as letters with content intended for both a physician and a patient) than those in cancer genetics (p= 0.010,p= 0.001, respectively) or pediatric genetics (p= 0.001,p= 0.004, respectively). Prenatal genetic counselors spent less time on average writing post‐visit communications (19.0 min) relative to those in cancer and pediatric genetics (30.6 min,p= 0.027 and 37.7 min,p= 0.001, respectively). The most commonly cited purpose for sending PVWC was to provide patients a formal account of what happened during the appointment. These data suggest PWVC are still regularly sent to patients but the practice is variable and is influenced by numerous factors including specialty, years of experience, and time constraints.
The Sexual Event Diary (SED): Development and Validation of a Standardized Questionnaire for Assessing Female Sexual Functioning During Discrete Sexual Events
Authors: van Nes Yvonne , Bloemers Jos , van der Heijden Peter G.M. , van Rooij Kim , Gerritsen Jeroen , Kessels Rob , DeRogatis Leonard , Tuiten Adriaan
Published: October 2017

Background

The efficacy of on-demand drugs for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) or female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) should be assessed using a validated instrument that assesses the discrete sexual events during which the on-demand drug is taken.

Aim

To develop and validate an event log for measuring sexual satisfaction and sexual functioning of discrete sexual events.

Methods

Psychometric assessment was carried out on data of 10,959 Sexual Event Diaries (SEDs) collected during three clinical trials in a total of 421 women with HSDD. Cognitive debriefing interviews were held with 16 women with HSDD.

Outcomes

Item scores of the SED at the event level and at the subject level, summarized item scores of women during the baseline establishment and active treatment periods, and score changes in women from baseline establishment to active treatment.

Results

Several items of the initial 16-item SED items showed weak validity. The 16-item SED was refined to the 11-item SED. The reliability, content, and convergent validity of the 11-item SED were confirmed. For most 11-item SED item scores, the ability to discriminate between known groups was confirmed. Larger mean score changes from the baseline establishment period were found in those with than in those without known benefit from the medication, and Guyatt effect sizes ranged from 0.73 to 1.58, thereby demonstrating the ability to detect change.

Clinical Translation

The SED is a good tool for assessing sexual function during a discrete sexual event and for assessing the sexual function of women over longer periods.

Strengths and Limitations

The validation of the SED was performed on data from nearly 11,000 sexual events, gathered as part of a drug development program for HSDD and FSIAD. This amount of data provides very robust results when related to drug use for HSDD and FSIAD, but caution is advised when generalizing the validity of the SED directly to other areas of research (eg, recreational drug use and sexual risky behaviors), because such data were not used in this validation.

Conclusions

The 11-item SED is a reliable, valid, and responsive instrument and suitable for use in evaluating the effects of on-demand drugs in women with HSDD or FSIAD.
Real interest parity: Evidence from trade partnerships
Authors: Boamah Mustapha Ibn
Published: October 2017

This study investigates real interest parity (RIP) in trade partnerships, and whether RIP depends on the type of trade partnership, using short term interest rates and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) obtained from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) database between 1975 and 2016. The investigation employs unit root and stationarity tests on interest rate differentials to study RIP between countries using Germany, United States, and Japan as base countries for selected countries in the European Union (EU), member countries of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and selected Asian countries respectively. The results show evidence in favor of RIP in the selected EU countries. The interest rate differentials of Belgium, France, Italy, Spain and the UK with respect to Germany confirms a long‐run relationship and real interest rate parity. There is also evidence to support the RIP in the other trade partnerships. With the exception of Mexico, the interest rate differentials for all the countries are stationary, and each quickly reverts to its mean.
REACH compliant epoxides used in the synthesis of Fe(III)-based aerogel monoliths for target fabrication
Authors: Valls Arrufat Alberto , Budziszewska Magdalena , Lopez Clement , Nguyen Aymeric , Sitek Jakub , Jones Paul , Shaw Chris , Hayes Ian , Cairns Gareth , Leighton Glenn
Published: October 2017

Aerogel materials manufactured from metal oxides have been used as components in numerous high-energy density physics targets. These aerogels have been identified to be used as a future target material in the AWE fielded campaigns at the US National Ignition Facility. A wide variety of metal oxide aerogels are required for future campaigns and therefore a versatile manufacturing route is sought; as such, an epoxide-assisted sol–gel route was investigated. Under the European Union Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals legislation, the most commonly used epoxide, propylene oxide, is recognized as a substance of very high concern (SVHC). This work sought to investigate suitable alternative epoxides for use in target manufacture. The outcome was the identification of synthesis routes for stable metal oxide aerogel monoliths using epoxides not subject to the above restrictions.
Cultural Pathways to Socio-Emotional Development and Learning
Authors: Savina Elena , Wan Kayan Phoebe
Published: October 2017

This article discusses the role of culture in children's emotional development and learning. Cultural orientation regarding self and relationships with others shapes cultural models of emotion regulation and expression. While independent cultures support open expression of emotions, interdependent cultures value the modulation of emotions. Children learn culture-appropriate ways of emotion regulation through socialisation in the family, acquisition of language, exposure to cultural products (e.g., children's books), and school activities. This article offers recommendations on how to design culture-grounded socio-emotional programs that take into account cultural values, indigenous content, and emotion regulation strategies contingent with culture-specific adaptive goals.
MEMMIUS THE EPICUREAN
Authors: Morgan Llewelyn , Taylor Barnaby
Published: October 2017

InFam.13.1 Cicero, visiting Athens en route to Cilicia in the summer of 51b.c., writes to C. Memmius L.f., praetor in 58 but by the time of Cicero's communication an exile in Athens after the shambolic consular elections for 53; Memmius was (temporarily, one assumes) absent from Athens in Mytilene, hence the need for Cicero to write to him. This letter, along withAtt.5.11.6 and 19.3, is our focus in the argument that follows, but, to summarize the situation in the very broadest terms, Cicero's concern in it is with Memmius’ intentions regarding a plot of land in Athens occupied by a house of Epicurus, and with the objections to Memmius’ plans that had been raised with Cicero by the scholarch of the Epicurean community in Athens, Patro.
Prevalence of suicidal behaviour and associated factors in a large sample of Chinese adolescents
Authors: Liu X. C. , Chen H. , Liu Z. Z. , Wang J. Y. , Jia C. X.
Published: October 2017

Aims.

Suicidal behaviour is prevalent among adolescents and is a significant predictor of future suicide attempts (SAs) and suicide death. Data on the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of suicidal behaviour in Chinese adolescents are limited. This study was aimed to examine the prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of suicidal behaviour, including suicidal thought (ST), suicide plan (SP) and SA, in a large sample of Chinese adolescents.

Method.

This report represents the first wave data of an ongoing longitudinal study, Shandong Adolescent Behavior and Health Cohort. Participants included 11 831 adolescent students from three counties of Shandong, China. The mean age of participants was 15.0 (s.d. = 1.5) and 51% were boys. In November–December 2015, participants completed a structured adolescent health questionnaire, including ST, SP and SA, characteristics of most recent SA, demographics, substance use, hopelessness, impulsivity and internalising and externalising behavioural problems.

Results.

The lifetime and last-year prevalence rates were 17.6 and 10.7% for ST in males, 23.5 and 14.7% for ST in females, 8.9 and 2.9% for SP in males, 10.7 and 3.8% for SP in females, 3.4 and 1.3% for SA in males, and 4.6 and 1.8% for SA in females, respectively. The mean age of first SA was 12–13 years. Stabbing/cutting was the most common method to attempt suicide. Approximately 24% of male attempters and 16% of female attempters were medically treated. More than 70% of attempters had no preparatory action. Female gender, smoking, drinking, internalising and externalising problems, hopelessness, suicidal history of friends and acquaintances, poor family economic status and poor parental relationship were all significantly associated with increased risk of suicidal behaviour.

Conclusions.

Suicidal behaviour in Chinese adolescents is prevalent but less than that previously reported in Western peers. While females are more likely to attempt suicide, males are more likely to use lethal methods. Multiple child and family factors are associated with suicidal behaviour. These findings highlight the importance of early screening and intervention of suicidal behaviour in Chinese adolescents.
Escin induces caspase-dependent apoptosis and autophagy through the ROS/p38 MAPK signalling pathway in human osteosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhu Jian , Yu Wei , Liu Bing , Wang Yitian , shao Jianlin , Wang Junjie , Xia Kaishun , Liang Chengzhen , Fang Weijing , Zhou Chenhe , Tao Huimin
Published: October 2017

Osteosarcoma is one of the most malignant neoplasms in adolescents, and it generally develops multidrug resistance. Escin, a natural mixture of triterpene saponins isolated from Aesculus hippocastanum (horse chestnut), has demonstrated potent anti-tumour potential in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we found that escin inhibited osteosarcoma proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Additionally, escin-induced apoptosis was evidenced by the increased expression of caspase-related proteins and the formation of apoptotic bodies. Escin also induced autophagy, with elevated LC3, ATG5, ATG12 and Beclin expression as well as autophagosome formation. Inhibition of escin-induced autophagy promoted apoptosis. Moreover, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were activated by escin. A p38 MAPK inhibitor partially attenuated the autophagy and apoptosis triggered by escin, but a ROS scavenger showed a greater inhibitory effect. Finally, the therapeutic efficacy of escin against osteosarcoma was demonstrated in an orthotopic model. Overall, escin counteracted osteosarcoma by inducing autophagy and apoptosis via the activation of the ROS/p38 MAPK signalling pathway; these findings provide evidence for escin as a novel and potent therapeutic for the treatment of osteosarcoma.
Cooperation of Rel family members in regulating Aβ1-40-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion by retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Sun Junran , Huang Peirong , Liang Jian , Li Jie , Shen Mengxi , She Xiangjun , Feng Yiji , Luo Xueting , Liu Te , Sun Xiaodong
Published: October 2017

Amyloid-beta (Aβ) is a hallmark component of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which induces secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Previous studies have shown that p50/RelA (p65), a member of NF-κB family, is an essential pro-inflammatory transcription factor responding to Aβ1-40 stimulation, but few focused on the other two Rel transcription factor members – RelB and c-Rel – and their role in Aβ1-40-mediated inflammation. It was reported that RelA, RelB and c-Rel are also implicated in various NF-κB-mediated inflammatory diseases. Therefore, we infer that Aβ1-40-mediated inflammation targets not only the classical inflammation regulator, RelA, but also RelB and c-Rel. In this study, we demonstrate that intravitreally injected Aβ1-40 mice develop AMD-like pathologic changes, coupled with Rel protein (RelA, RelB and c-Rel) synthesis and nuclear translocation. To focus on the interaction mechanism of Rel proteins, we found that RelB and c-Rel formed a heterodimer with RelA in mice model. We also found that c-Rel silencing decreased the levels of Aβ1-40-dependent RelA expression, indicating that RelB and c-Rel may interact with RelA as coactivator and c-Rel is required to activate the expression of RelA. Moreover, Rel protein silencing decreased the expression of distinct pro-inflammatory cytokines. Together, we demonstrate that besides RelA, RelB and c-Rel can also be activated by Aβ1-40, all of which mediate pro-inflammatory cytokine transcription and RPE damage. Our findings imply that RPE-mediated inflammation under the stimulation of Aβ1-40 is multi-targeted and RelA, RelB and c-Rel proteins may be the new targets of anti-inflammatory agents.
The lncRNA TUG1 modulates proliferation in trophoblast cells via epigenetic suppression of RND3
Authors: Xu Yetao , Ge Zhiping , Zhang Erbao , Zuo Qing , Huang Shiyun , Yang Nana , Wu Dan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Yanzi , Xu Haoqin , Huang Huan , Jiang Zhiyan , Sun Lizhou
Published: October 2017

Due to limited treatment options, pre-eclampsia (PE) is associated with fetal perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. During the causes of PE, failure of uterine spiral artery remodeling which might be related to functioning abnormally of trophoblast cells, result in the occurrence and progression of PE. Recently, abnormal expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as imperative regulators involved in human diseases progression (included PE), which has been indicated by increasing evidence. In this research, we found that TUG1, a lncRNA, was markedly reduced in placental samples from patients with PE. Loss-function assays indicated that knockdown TUG1 significantly affected cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and network formation in vitro. RNA-seq revealed that TUG1 could affect abundant genes, and then explore the function and regulatory mechanism of TUG1 in trophoblast cells. Furthermore, RNA immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays validated that TUG1 can epigenetically inhibit the level of RND3 through binding to EZH2, thus promoting PE development. Therefore, via illuminating the TUG1 mechanisms underlying PE development and progression, our findings might furnish a prospective therapeutic strategy for PE intervention.
MicroRNA-378 protects against intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury via a mechanism involving the inhibition of intestinal mucosal cell apoptosis
Authors: Li Yunsheng , Wen Shihong , Yao Xi , Liu Weifeng , Shen Jiantong , Deng Wentao , Tang Jing , Li Cai , Liu Kexuan
Published: October 2017

Intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remains a major clinical event and contributes to high morbidity and mortality rates, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Recent studies have demonstrated that microRNAs (miRNAs) have important roles in organ I/R injury, but the changes and potential roles of miRNAs in intestinal I/R-induced intestinal injury are unclear. This study was designed to analyze the miRNA expression profiles in intestinal mucosa after I/R injury and to explore the role of target miRNA during this process. Using miRNA microarray analysis, we found changes of 19 miRNAs from the expression profile of miRNAs in a mouse model of intestinal I/R and further verified them by RT-qPCR. Here, we report that miR-378 is one of the markedly decreased miRNAs and found the putative target mRNA that is linked to cell death after applying the TargetScan, miRanda, CLIP-Seq and miRDB prediction algorithms. Our results show that the overexpression of miR-378 significantly ameliorated intestinal tissue damage in wild-type and transgenic mice and oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion-challenged IEC-6 cell injury. Moreover, miR-378 overexpression reduced intestinal epithelial cell apoptosis in both in vivo and in vitro ischemic models and attenuated cleaved caspase-3 expression. Collectively, our results revealed that the suppression of caspase-3 activation by miRNA-378 overexpression may be involved in the protective effects of intestinal ischemic damage. MiRNA-378 may serve as a key regulator and therapeutic target in intestinal I/R injury.
Tenomodulin is essential for prevention of adipocyte accumulation and fibrovascular scar formation during early tendon healing
Authors: Lin Dasheng , Alberton Paolo , Caceres Manuel Delgado , Volkmer Elias , Schieker Matthias , Docheva Denitsa
Published: October 2017

Tenomodulin (Tnmd) is the best-known mature marker for tendon and ligament lineage cells. It is important for tendon maturation, running performance and has key implications for the resident tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSPCs). However, its exact functions during the tendon repair process still remain elusive. Here, we established an Achilles tendon injury model in a Tnmd knockout (Tnmd−/−) mouse line. Detailed analyses showed not only a very different scar organization with a clearly reduced cell proliferation and expression of certain tendon-related genes, but also increased cell apoptosis, adipocyte and blood vessel accumulation in the early phase of tendon healing compared with their wild-type (WT) littermates. In addition, Tnmd−/− tendon scar tissue contained augmented matrix deposition of biglycan, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (Comp) and fibronectin, altered macrophage profile and reduced numbers of CD146-positive cells. In vitro analysis revealed that Tnmd−/− TSPCs exhibited significantly reduced migration and proliferation potential compared with that of WT TSPCs. Furthermore, Tnmd−/− TSPCs had accelerated adipogenic differentiation accompanied with significantly increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparγ) and lipoprotein lipase (Lpl) mRNA levels. Thus, our results demonstrate that Tnmd is required for prevention of adipocyte accumulation and fibrovascular scar formation during early tendon healing.
Increased 15-lipoxygenase-1 expression in chondrocytes contributes to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis
Authors: Chen Kaizhe , Yan Yufei , Li Changwei , Yuan Jun , Wang Fei , Huang Ping , Qian Niandong , Qi Jin , Zhou Hanbing , Zhou Qi , Deng Lianfu , He Chuan , Guo Lei
Published: October 2017

15-Lipoxygenase-1 (15-LO-1) is involved in many pathological processes. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential role of 15-LO-1 in osteoarthritis (OA). The levels of 15-LO-1 expression were measured by western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR in articular cartilage from the OA rat models and OA patients. To further investigate the effects of 15-LO-1 on chondrocyte functions, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion, the release of matrix-degrading enzymes, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell proliferation and apoptosis, we decreased or increased 15-LO-1 expression in chondrocytes by means of transfecting with siRNA targeting 15-LO-1 and plasmid encoding 15-LO-1, respectively. The results showed that 15-LO-1 expression was obviously increased in articular cartilage from OA rats and OA patients. It was also found that many factor-related OA, such as mechanical loading, ROS, SNP and inflammatory factor, significantly promoted 15-LO-1 expression and activity in chondrocytes. Silencing 15-LO-1 was able to markedly alleviate mechanical loading-induced cartilage ECM secretion, cartilage-degrading enzyme secretion and ROS production. Overexpression of 15-LO-1 could inhibit chondrocyte proliferation and induce chondrocyte apoptosis. In addition, reduction of 15-LO-1 in vivo significantly alleviated OA. Taken together, these results indicate that 15-LO-1 has an important role in the disease progression of OA. Thus 15-LO-1 may be a good target for developing drugs in the treatment of OA.
Mining drives extensive deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Sonter Laura J. , Herrera Diego , Barrett Damian J. , Galford Gillian L. , Moran Chris J. , Soares-Filho Britaldo S.
Published: October 2017

Mining poses significant and potentially underestimated risks to tropical forests worldwide. In Brazil’s Amazon, mining drives deforestation far beyond operational lease boundaries, yet the full extent of these impacts is unknown and thus neglected in environmental licensing. Here we quantify mining-induced deforestation and investigate the aspects of mining operations, which most likely contribute. We find mining significantly increased Amazon forest loss up to 70 km beyond mining lease boundaries, causing 11,670 km2 of deforestation between 2005 and 2015. This extent represents 9% of all Amazon forest loss during this time and 12 times more deforestation than occurred within mining leases alone. Pathways leading to such impacts include mining infrastructure establishment, urban expansion to support a growing workforce, and development of mineral commodity supply chains. Mining-induced deforestation is not unique to Brazil; to mitigate adverse impacts of mining and conserve tropical forests globally, environmental assessments and licensing must considered both on- and off-lease sources of deforestation.
Carbon fixation from mineral carbonates
Authors: Guida Brandon S. , Bose Maitrayee , Garcia-Pichel Ferran
Published: October 2017

Photoautotrophs assimilate oxidized carbon obtained from one of two sources: dissolved or atmospheric. Despite its size, the pool of lithospheric carbonate is not known to be a direct source for autotrophy. Yet, the mechanism that euendolithic cyanobacteria use to excavate solid carbonates suggests that minerals could directly supply CO2 for autotrophy. Here, we use stable isotopes and NanoSIMS to show that the cyanobacterium Mastigocoleus testarum derives most of its carbon from the mineral it excavates, growing preferentially as an endolith when lacking dissolved CO2. Furthermore, natural endolithic communities from intertidal marine carbonate outcrops present carbon isotopic signatures consistent with mineral-sourced autotrophy. These data demonstrate a direct geomicrobial link between mineral carbonate pools and reduced organic carbon, which, given the geographical extent of carbonate outcrops, is likely of global relevance. The ancient fossil record of euendolithic cyanobacteria suggests that biological fixation of solid carbonate could have been relevant since the mid-Proterozoic.
Late Holocene slowdown of the Indian Ocean Walker circulation
Authors: Mohtadi Mahyar , Prange Matthias , Schefuß Enno , Jennerjahn Tim C.
Published: October 2017

Changes in tropical zonal atmospheric (Walker) circulation induce shifts in rainfall patterns along with devastating floods and severe droughts that dramatically impact the lives of millions of people. Historical records and observations of the Walker circulation over the 20th century disagree on the sign of change and therefore, longer climate records are necessary to better project tropical circulation changes in response to global warming. Here we examine proxies for thermocline depth and rainfall in the eastern tropical Indian Ocean during the globally colder Last Glacial Maximum (19–23 thousand years ago) and for the past 3000 years. We show that increased thermocline depth and rainfall indicate a stronger-than-today Walker circulation during the Last Glacial Maximum, which is supported by an ensemble of climate simulations. Our findings underscore the sensitivity of tropical circulation to temperature change and provide evidence for a further weakening of the Walker circulation in response to greenhouse warming.