bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of hybrid composites based on epoxy, novolac, and epoxidized novolac resins and silica nanoparticles with high char residue by sol‐gel method
Authors: Abdollahi Amin , Roghani‐Mamaqani Hossein , Salami‐Kalajahi Mehdi , Razavi Bahareh , Mousavi Alireza , Shahi Sina
Published: November 2017

A facile method was developed for preparation of three hybrid composites by using tetraethyl orthosilicate oligomer‐modified epoxy resin (MER), (3‐glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane‐modified novolac resin (MNR), epoxidized novolac resin (ENR), and silica nanoparticles (SiO2). Accordingly, the first class of composites was prepared from MER and SiO2. The second class of composites was prepared from MER, MNR, and SiO2. And the third class of composites was prepared from silica MNR, ENR, and nanoparticles. All the modified resins and their composites were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and their thermal behavior was investigated by thermo gravimetric analysis. The obtained thermograms showed that thermal stability of hybrid composites were controlled by the amount of SiO2 and type of resins. Char yield of epoxy resin was increased significantly by formation of hybrid composites. The second class of composites showed higher char yields in comparison with the first class (52.1 compared with 23.2% for 8 wt% of SiO2). Incorporation of ENR instead of MER in the third class composites resulted in much more char residues of 60.2 and 60.6% for 4 and 8 wt% of SiO2. Therefore, third class composite with 8 wt% of SiO2 exhibited the highest char yield. Scanning electron and transmission electron microscopies were used to study the morphology and dimension of SiO2. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2316–E2323, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Identification of Plasma Membrane Glycoproteins Specific to Human Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells Using Lectin Arrays and LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Park Yae Eun , Yeom Jeonghun , Kim YoungSoo , Lee Hye Jin , Han Ki‐Cheol , Lee Seung‐Taek , Lee Cheolju , Lee Ji Eun
Published: November 2017

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is the most malignant type of brain cancer and has poor prognosis with a median survival of less than one year. While the structural changes of tumor cell surface carbohydrates are known to be associated with invasive behavior of tumor cells, the cell surface glycoproteins to differentiate the low‐ and high‐grade glioma cells can be potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for GBMs. In the present study, lectin arrays consisting of eight lectins were employed to explore cell surface carbohydrate expression patterns on low‐grade oligodendroglioma cells (Hs683) and GBM cells (T98G). Griffonia simplicifolia I (GS I) was found to selectively bind to T98G cells and not to Hs683 cells. For identification of the glioblastoma‐specific cell surface markers, the glycoproteins from each cell type were captured by a GS I lectin column and analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. The identified proteins from the two cell types were quantified using label‐free quantitative analysis based on spectral counting. Of cell surface glycoproteins showing significant increases in T98G cells, five proteins were selected for verification of both protein and glycosylation level changes using Western blot and GS I lectin‐based immunosorbent assay.
Why is Meaning‐Centered Group Psychotherapy (MCGP) effective? Enhanced sense of meaning as the mechanism of change for advanced cancer patients
Authors: Rosenfeld Barry , Cham Heining , Pessin Hayley , Breitbart William
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Meaning‐Centered Group Psychotherapy (MCGP) has been demonstrated to be an effective method for improving advanced cancer patients' quality of life and reducing their depression, hopelessness, and desire for hastened death. To further understand MCGP, this study examined the mechanisms of change in MCGP on these outcomes via advanced cancer patients' changes of sense of meaning and peace in life.

Methods

The sample data were from 2 randomized control trials that compared MCGP (n = 124) to supportive group psychotherapy (n = 94). Mediation effects of treatment status on outcomes (2 months after completion of treatment) via patients' change in sense of meaning and peace (posttreatment minus pretreatment) were tested. The outcome variables used in these analyses were quality of life, depression, hopelessness, and desire for hastened death.

Results

Significant mediation effects via change in sense of meaning and peace on these outcomes were found. Consistent results were found using intention‐to‐treated statuses. Weaker, but still significant, mediation effects via change in sense of faith on these outcomes were also found.

Conclusions

Results supported the hypotheses that improvement due to MCGP is mediated by advanced cancer patients' enhanced sense of meaning. These findings highlight the importance of interventions focused on enhancing sense of meaning, as this appears to be a viable route to improve quality of life and decrease psychological distress among patients with advanced cancer.
Association of cytokine gene polymorphisms with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in Han Chinese newborns
Authors: Chen Hui , Zheng Wei
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate the association of 14 cytokine gene polymorphisms with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) among Han Chinese newborns. The 14 polymorphisms investigated were IL18 rs1946519, rs1946518, rs187238, rs360718, and rs360717 polymorphisms, IL10 rs3024493 polymorphism, IL6 rs1800795, rs1800796, and rs1800797 polymorphisms, TNF rs361525 and rs1800629 polymorphisms, and TGFB1 rs1800469, rs1800468, and rs1800471 polymorphisms.

Working hypothesis

The polymorphisms could be associated with the risk of BPD among Han Chinese newborns.

Study design, patient‐subject selection, and methodology

This is a retrospective study. Genotyping of these polymorphisms were performed on BPD cases (N = 1022) and non‐BPD controls (N = 1039) who were ascertained using the established Jobe and Bancalari criteria. The odds ratios (ORs) of polymorphisms whose genotype distribution in the controls fulfilled the Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) were calculated to evaluate the strengths of genetic association.

Results

Genotype distributions of IL6 rs1800795 and rs1800797 polymorphisms deviated significantly from HWE and were omitted from the analysis. Among the 12 remaining polymorphisms, only TNF rs361525 polymorphism demonstrated a statistically significant association with BPD risk. The heterozygous GA genotype of TNF rs361525 polymorphism showed an OR of 1.932 (1.512‐2.470), while the homozygous AA variant genotype showed an OR of 2.927 (1.216‐7.048) (P = 0.000 and P = 0.017, respectively). Besides, the allelic OR was also analyzed, and it was found that the variant A allele of TNF rs361525 polymorphism showed an OR of 2.146 (1.718‐2.680) (P = 0.000).

Conclusion

TNF rs361525 polymorphism could influence BPD risk among Han Chinese newborns.
The hypoxic test in preterm neonates reinvestigated
Authors: Kouakam Christelle , Stephan‐Blanchard Erwan , Léké André , Kongolo Guy , Haraux Elodie , Delanaud Stéphane , Telliez Frédéric , Chardon Karen
Published: November 2017

Aim

We currently lack a suitable gold‐standard method for implementation on modern equipment to assess peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity. The aim of the present study was to develop an accurate and reproducible method for assessing peripheral chemoreceptors sensitivity in sleeping preterm neonates.

Methods

A poïkilocapnic hypoxic test was performed twice during rapid eye movement sleep (REM sleep) and non‐rapid eye movement sleep (nonREM sleep). The infant breathed hypoxic gas (15% O2) for 60 s. The ventilatory response to hypoxia was assessed by comparing minute ventilation during the control period (21% O2) with successive 4‐cycles sequences during hypoxia. We detected the first statistically significant increase in minute ventilation and recorded the corresponding response time.

Results

During normoxia, minute ventilation was higher during REM sleep than in nonREM sleep (428.1 mL · min−1 · kg−1 [307.7‐633.6]; 388.8 mL · min−1 · kg−1 [264.7‐608.0], respectively; P = 0.001). After hypoxia, minute ventilation increased in both REM and nonREM sleep. The response was significantly higher in REM than in nonREM (25.3% [10.8‐80.0] and 16.8% [7.5‐33.2], respectively; P = 0.005). The intraclass correlation coefficients for all respiratory parameters were above 0.90.

Conclusion

We have developed a highly reliable method for assessing peripheral chemoreceptors sensitivity at the response time to hypoxia. In the future, researchers could use this method to assess the involvement of peripheral chemoreceptors in infants who experience chronic hypoxia (e.g. in bronchopulmonary dysplasia and recurrent apnea).
Enhanced radiosensitization of enzalutamide via schedule dependent administration to androgen‐sensitive prostate cancer cells
Authors: Ghashghaei Maryam , Paliouras Miltiadis , Heravi Mitra , Bekerat Hamed , Trifiro Mark , Niazi Tamim M. , Muanza Thierry
Published: November 2017

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a progressive disease and the most diagnosed cancer in men. The current standard of care for high‐risk localized PCa is a combination of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and radiation (XRT). The majority of these patients however become resistant due to incomplete responses to ADT as a result of selective cells maintaining androgen receptor (AR) activity. Improvement can be made if increasing radiosensitivity is realized. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of the next‐generation PCa drug Enzalutamide (ENZA), as a radiosensitizer in XRT therapy.

Methods

Using a number of androgen‐dependent (LNCaP, PC3‐T877A) and androgen‐independent (C4‐2, 22RV1, PC3, PC3‐AR V7) cell lines, the effect of ENZA as a radiosensitizer was studied alone or in combination with ADT and/or XRT. Cell viability and cell survival were assessed, along with determination of cell cycle arrest, DNA damage response and repair, apoptosis and senescence.

Results

Our results indicated that either ENZA alone (in AR positive, androgen‐dependent PCa cells) or in combination with ADT (in AR positive, hormone‐insensitive PCa cells) potentiates radiation response [Dose enhancement factor (DEF) of 1.75 in LNCAP and 1.35 in C4‐2] stronger than ADT + XRT conditions. Additionally, ENZA sensitized androgen dependent PCa cells to XRT in a schedule‐dependent manner, where concurrent administration of ENZA and radiation lead to a maximal radiosensitization when compared to either drug administration prior or after XRT. In LNCaP cells, ENZA treatment significantly prolonged the presence of XRT‐induced phospho‐γH2AX up to 24 h after treatment; suggesting enhanced DNA damage. It also significantly increased XRT‐induced apoptosis and senescence.

Conclusions

Our data indicates that ENZA acts as a much stronger radiosensitizer compared to ADT. We have also observed that its efficacy is schedule dependent and related to increased levels of DNA damage and a delay of DNA repair processes. Finally, the initial abrogation of DNA‐PKcs activity by AR inhibition and its subsequent recovery might represent an important mechanism by which PCa cells acquire resistance to combined anti‐androgen and XRT treatment. This work suggests a new use of ENZA in combination with XRT that could be applicable in clinical trial settings for patients with early and intermediate hormone responsive disease.
Macrophage roles in the clearance of apoptotic cells and control of inflammation in the prostate gland after castration
Authors: Silva Juliete A.F. , Bruni‐Cardoso Alexandre , Augusto Taize M. , Damas‐Souza Danilo M. , Barbosa Guilherme O. , Felisbino Sérgio L. , Stach‐Machado Dagmar R. , Carvalho Hernandes F.
Published: November 2017

Background

Androgen deprivation results in massive apoptosis in the prostate gland. Macrophages are actively engaged in phagocytosing epithelial cell corpses. However, it is unknown whether microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 alpha (LC3)‐associated phagocytosis (LAP) is involved and contribute to prevent inflammation.

Methods

Flow cytometry, RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to characterize the macrophage subpopulation residing in the epithelial layer of the rat ventral prostate (VP) after castration. Stereology was employed to determine variations in the number of ED1 and ED2. Mice were treated with either chloroquine or L‐asparagine to block autophagy.

Results

M1 (iNOS‐positive) and M2 macrophages (MRC1+ and ARG1+) were not found in the epithelium at day 5 after castration. The percentage of CD68+ (ED1) and CD163+(ED2) phenotypes increased after castration but only CD68+ cells were present in the epithelium. RT‐PCR showed increased content of the autophagy markers Bcl1 and LC3 after castration. In addition, immunohistochemistry showed the presence of LC3+ and ATG5+ cells in the epithelium. Double immunohistochemistry showed these cells to be CD68+/LC3+, compatible with the LAP phenotype. LC3+ cells accumulate significantly after castration. Chloroquine and L‐asparagine administration caused inflammation of the glands at day 5 after castration.

Conclusions

CD68+ macrophages phagocytose apoptotic cell corpses and activate the LAP pathway, thereby contributing to the preservation of a non‐inflammed microenvironment. Marked inflammation was detected when autophagy blockers were administered to castrated animals.
Prediction of protein structure with the coarse‐grained UNRES force field assisted by small X‐ray scattering data and knowledge‐based information
Authors: Karczyńska Agnieszka S. , Mozolewska Magdalena A. , Krupa Paweł , Giełdoń Artur , Liwo Adam , Czaplewski Cezary
Published: November 2017

A new approach to assisted protein–structure prediction has been proposed, which is based on running multiplexed replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations with the coarse‐grained UNRES force field with restraints derived from knowledge‐based models and distance distribution from small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) measurements. The latter restraints are incorporated into the target function as a maximum‐likelihood term that guides the shape of the simulated structures towards that defined by SAXS. The approach was first verified with the 1KOY protein, for which the distance distribution was calculated from the experimental structure, and subsequently used to predict the structures of 11 data‐assisted targets in the CASP12 experiment. Major improvement of the GDT_TS was obtained for 2 targets, minor improvement for other 2 while, for 6 target GDT_TS deteriorated compared with that calculated for predictions without the SAXS data, partly because of assuming a wrong multimeric state (for Ts866) or because the crystal conformation was more compact than the solution conformation (for Ts942). Particularly good results were obtained for Ts909, in which use of SAXS data resulted in the selection of a correctly packed trimer and, subsequently, increased the GDT_TS of monomer prediction. It was found that running simulations with correct oligomeric state is essential for the success in SAXS‐data‐assisted prediction.
Large Area Polymer Composite Films Embedded with Colloidal Quantum Dots for Efficient White Light Generation
Authors: Bae Kang‐Bin , Lee Won‐Wook , Song Hyeon‐Yong , Yun Jin‐Hyeon , Polyakov Alexander Y. , Lee In‐Hwan
Published: November 2017

A large‐area (30 × 30 cm2) polymer film, embedded with green‐ and red‐emitting colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) to generate white light excited by blue light emitting diodes (LEDs), is fabricated. To prevent reabsorption and nonradiative energy transfer between QDs causing a significant redshift of the desired final color, the polymer film structure comprised of separated green and red emitting composite layers is explored. As a result, high‐quality white light generation is demonstrated by placing these composite films on a blue LED platform.
Phase Composition and Magnetic Properties of Nanostructured Fe–Co–Ni Powders
Authors: Zaharov Yuriy A. , Pugachev Valeriy M. , Ovcharenko Victor I. , Datiy Kseniya A. , Popova Anna N. , Bogomyakov Artem S.
Published: November 2017

Nanostructured Fe–Co–Ni powders, with crystallite sizes of 10–35 nm for different compositions, are obtained in the whole range of compositions (step change in the components content is of 10 wt.% and, in the case of near the phase boundaries, 3–5 wt.%) by the reduction of freshly co‐precipitated mixed hydroxides with hydrazine hydrate in a strongly alkaline medium. The isothermal section of the phase diagram corresponding to the synthesis temperature (363–368 K) is constructed using reflection modeling based on XRD data of the samples series with different compositions. Its features are founded, characterized, and discussed: the phase diagram of the system in the nanostructured and nonequilibrium state is compared with the phase diagram of the system in the bulk state. In the region of the FCC‐solid solution, the “lattice parameter–composition” dependence was described by the flat surface equation (three‐dimensional analog of Vegard's law). Some magnetic characteristics are measured for the Fe–Co–Ni systems containing 10 wt.% Ni and variable Co/Fe ratio. Some features of the superparamagnetic component are observed above the blocking temperature; they are related to the crystallite size and the phase composition of the samples.
Anomalous Polarization Switching Characteristics in a Ferroelectric Heterostructure
Authors: Cui Lian , Cao Fenghui , Cui Haiying , Li Yuchun , Yang Rui
Published: November 2017

The polarization switching characteristics of a ferroelectric heterostructure consists of two different ferroelectric films with surface transition layer within each film and a ferroelectric interfacial coupling at the interface between the two films according to Landau–Devonshire theory in combination with Landau–Khalatnikov dynamic equation, as first presented in this work. A parameter β is introduced to describe the differences of physical characteristics between the two constituent films of the ferroelectric heterostructure. We focus on studying the combined influence of parameter β and ferroelectric interfacial coupling on the polarization switching behavior of the system. The evolution with time of polarization, hysteresis loop, and equilibrium action of the ferroelectric coupling and parameter β are obtained by numerical calculations. The results exhibit some anomalous phenomena.
Impact of Co and Fe Doping on the Martensitic Transformation and the Magnetic Properties in Ni‐Mn‐Based Heusler Alloys
Authors: Dutta Biswanath , Körmann Fritz , Hickel Tilmann , Neugebauer Jörg
Published: November 2017

Doping with Co and Fe is a promising strategy to enhance the performance of Ni‐Mn‐based magnetocaloric materials. We investigate here the impact of these two elements on the magnetic properties and the martensitic transformations in Mn‐rich Ni‐Mn‐Al Heusler alloy. Based on ab initio ground‐state energies, we explain the martensitic transformation temperatures in these alloys. The magnetic ground states of the austenite and the martensite phases are discussed on the basis of magnetic exchange parameters. A thorough comparison of the transition temperatures and the change in saturation moments during martensitic transformation brings into light the relative potential of the two substitutional elements for future applications.
Sulfur‐Immobilized Nitrogen and Oxygen Co–Doped Hierarchically Porous Biomass Carbon for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries: Influence of Sulfur Content and Distribution on Its Performance
Authors: Chulliyote Reshma , Hareendrakrishnakumar Haritha , Raja Murugan , Gladis Joseph Mary , Stephan Arul Manuel
Published: November 2017

Hierarchically porous carbon with inherently doped heteroatoms and the quantity of active material (sulfur) confined within this carbon matrix play a major role for the high performance of Li−S batteries. Herein, we discuss the influence of sulfur content and distribution onto the N and O co‐doped hierarchically porous biomass carbon matrix (PC) to achieve high specific capacitance and cycling stability. Sulfur encapsulated PC was prepared from an eco‐friendly source with a high surface area of 2065 m2 g−1 and a pore volume of 1.5 cm3 g−1. PC with 54, 68 & 73% of sulfur content (PCSCs) have been investigated as cathode materials for Li−S battery. PC with 54% sulfur displayed better performance with an initial discharge capacity of 1606 mA h g−1 and a cycling stability of 1269 mA h g−1 at 0.1C rate after 100 cycles due to better dispersion of sulfur in the porous architecture. The higher cycling stability of PCSC (54%) is due to the N and O co‐doped hierarchical porous carbon layers, enhancing the sulfur utilization ratio and mitigating the polysulfide shuttle during the cycling process.
Generation of New 1,3‐Dipolar Azomethine Ylide via Reaction of Ethyl Glycinate with Dialkyl But‐2‐ynedioate and Tandem 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Huang Ying , Sun Jing , Yan Chao‐Guo
Published: November 2017

The triethylamine promoted reaction of ethyl glycinate hydrochloride with but‐2‐ynedioate in ethanol at room temperature afforded a new kind of 1,3‐dipolar azomethine ylide. The sequential [3+2] cycloaddition of the new azomethine ylide with 2‐arylidene‐1,3‐indanediones or 2‐arylideneoxindoline‐2‐ones successfully resulted in functionalized spiro[indene‐2, 3′‐pyrrolidines] or spiro[indoline‐3, 3′‐pyrrolidine] derivatives in moderate to good yields and with high diastereoselectivity. The relative configuration of the spiro compounds were clearly elucidated by analysis of NMR spectra and determination of single crystal structures.
Cyclodextrin‐Based Polymer‐Assisted Ru Nanoparticles for the Aqueous Hydrogenation of Biomass‐Derived Platform Molecules
Authors: Chen Manyu , Dong Qifeng , Ni Wenxiu , Zhao Xiuge , Gu Qingwen , Tang Guoping , Li Difan , Ma Wenbao , Hou Zhenshan
Published: November 2017

A green water‐soluble cyclodextrin polymer has been prepared through cross‐linking of β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PEGDE). The as‐synthesized co‐polymer (PEG‐CD) showed an excellent ability to stabilize and constrain the size of Ru‐Nanoparticles in aqueous phase, as compared with other polymer stabilizer used in this work such as polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP−K30) and polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (PEGDE). The co‐ploymer PEG‐CD‐stabilizied Ru NPs have been found to be a highly efficient catalyst in the aqueous hydrogenation of levulinic acid into γ‐valerolactone under mild reaction condition. This catalyst system can be easily extended to the selective hydrogenation of other lignocellulose‐derived platform molecule including 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, furfural, phenol, 2‐methoxy‐4‐methyl phenol and 2‐methoxy‐4‐ethyl phenol, etc. The further characterization analysis indicated that the small‐sized and highly dispersed Ru NPs (1.2‐2.0 nm) embedded in co‐ploymer PEG‐CD matrix were highly stable for the consecutive catalytic recycles. Additionally, the inclusion interaction of substrate molecules and β‐CD units within polymer matrix played a crucial role in the enhancement of catalytic performance.
PTSA.H2O‐Catalyzed Reaction of 3‐Aminocoumarins and Phenylacetaldehydes: A Route to Access Various Pyrido(2,3‐c)coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Belal Md. , Khan Abu T.
Published: November 2017

A number of pyrido(2, 3‐c)coumarin derivatives were accomplished from various 3‐aminocoumarins and phenylacetaldehydes in acetonitrile using 10 mol% p‐toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (PTSA.H2O) as a catalyst. The protocol is an easy approach to synthesize a number of biologically important coumarin fused pyridine derivatives.
Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence of a BODIPY Derivative with Extended Conjugation
Authors: Ishimatsu Ryoichi , Shintaku Hirosato , Adachi Chihaya , Nakano Koji , Imato Toshihiko
Published: November 2017

The electrochemical properties and electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) of a borondipyrromethane (BODIPY) derivative, 2,8‐bis(4‐isopropylphenyl)‐difuro[2, 3‐b][3, 2‐g]‐5,5‐difluoro‐5‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene (Derivative 1, Figure 1) are described. Derivative 1 emitted ECL in the range of 650∼800 nm by using tripropylamine (TPA) as a coreactant. In the cyclic voltammogram, Derivative 1 showed a reversible oxidation wave, whereas the reduction wave was irreversible. Energetically, it is likely that triplet‐triplet annihilation is the main pathway to emit ECL through the ion annihilation of the radical anions and cations of Derivative 1 whereas the lowest excited singlet state of Derivative 1 is directly produced with TPA. The maximum ECL wavelengths (670 nm at 0.01 mM) were red‐shifted with increasing the concentration of Derivative 1 because of the self‐absorption resulted from a small Stokes shift (∼10 nm). Relative ECL efficiency of Derivative 1 was 0.13 compared to that of a Ru(bpy)2+/TPA system.
Red Blood Cells for Drug Delivery
Authors: Yan Junjie , Yu Jicheng , Wang Chao , Gu Zhen
Published: November 2017

Red blood cells (RBCs), or erythrocytes, have been promising endogenous candidates for drug delivery for more than four decades. Armed with a better understanding of the diverse mechanisms and paths for drug delivery, researchers have achieved great progress in manufacturing RBC‐based carriers, from both the scientific and clinical viewpoints. Here, the loading methods and loading therapeutics by RBC carriers are surveyed, and recent advances in the design of stimuli‐triggered RBC carriers highlighted. Key developing trends and challenges, are also discussed, and an outlook is presented.
Early Effects of the Affordable Care Act on Health Care Access, Risky Health Behaviors, and Self‐Assessed Health
Authors: Courtemanche Charles , Marton James , Ukert Benjamin , Yelowitz Aaron , Zapata Daniela
Published: November 2017

The goal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was to achieve nearly universal health insurance coverage through a combination of mandates, subsidies, marketplaces, and Medicaid expansions, most of which took effect in 2014. We use data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to examine the impacts of the ACA on health care access, risky health behaviors, and self‐assessed health after two years. We estimate difference‐in‐difference‐in‐differences models that exploit variation in treatment intensity from state participation in the Medicaid expansion and pre‐ACA uninsured rates. Results suggest that the ACA led to sizeable improvements in access to health care in both Medicaid expansion and nonexpansion states, with the gains being larger in expansion states along some dimensions. However, we do not find clear effects on risky behaviors or self‐assessed health.
The role of Ca2+‐dependent K+‐ channels at the rat corticostriatal synapses revealed by paired pulse stimulation
Authors: Robles Gómez Angel A. , Vega Ana V. , Gónzalez‐Sandoval Carolina , Barral Jaime
Published: November 2017

Potassium channels play an important role in modulating synaptic activity both at presynaptic and postsynaptic levels. We have shown before that presynaptically located KV and KIR channels modulate the strength of corticostriatal synapses in rat brain, but the role of other types of potassium channels at these synapses remains largely unknown. Here, we show that calcium‐dependent potassium channels BK‐type but not SK‐type channels are located presynaptically in corticostriatal synapses. We stimulated cortical neurons in rat brain slices and recorded postsynaptic excitatory potentials (EPSP) in medium spiny neurons (MSN) in dorsal neostriatum. By using a paired pulse protocol, we induced synaptic facilitation before applying either BK‐ or SK‐specific toxins. Thus, we found that blockage of BKCa with iberiotoxin (10 nM) reduces synaptic facilitation and increases the amplitude of the EPSP, while exposure to SK‐blocker apamin (100 nM) has no effect. Additionally, we induced train action potentials on striatal MSN by current injection before and after the exposure to KCa toxins. We found that the action potential becomes broader when the MSN is exposed to iberiotoxin, although it has no impact on frequency. In contrast, exposure to apamin results in loss of afterhyperpolarization phase and an increase of spike frequency. Therefore, we concluded that postsynaptic SK channels are involved in afterhyperpolarization and modulation of spike frequency while the BK channels are involved on the late repolarization phase of the action potential. Altogether, our results show that calcium‐dependent potassium channels modulate both input towards and output from the striatum.
Study of the Air‐Tolerant 1,3‐Diphosphacyclobutane‐2,4‐diyl through the Direct Arylation
Authors: Ito Shigekazu
Published: November 2017

Installing π‐functional substituents on the skeletal phosphorus atoms of the air‐tolerant 1,3‐diphosphacyclobutane‐2,4‐diyl unit are promising for tuning the open‐shell singlet P‐heterocyclic chromophore. The sterically encumbered 1,3‐diphosphaCycloButen‐4‐yl Anion (CBA), generated from the phosphorus‐carbon triple bond, was available for the regioselective arylation via nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) reaction, addition to arynes, and single‐electron transfer (SET) process affording the corresponding P‐arylated 1,3‐diphosphacyclobutane‐2,4‐diyls. The photo‐absorption and redox properties correlated with the effects of the aryl substituents on the 1,3‐diphosphacyclobutane‐2,4‐diyl unit. The X‐ray analyses enabled not only to discuss the metric parameters but also to visualize the radicalic electrons via the electron‐density distribution analysis. The electron‐donating character of the P‐heterocyclic chromophores induced the p‐type semiconductor behavior. Detection of hydrogen fluoride via formation of the 1λ5,3λ5‐diphosphete derivative was also developed.
Profiles and Portfolios
Authors: Hull Cathy , Redfern Liz , Shuttleworth Ann
Published: November 2017

This thoroughly revised and updated second edition of Profiles and Portfolios provides a complete guide to designing and maintaining a profile or portfolio. The text uses a practical step-by-step approach, has been expanded to cover a wide range of topics related to keeping a personal portfolio in a health as well as a social care context, and teaches the skills necessary for reflective practice.
The Compositional Dependence of the Microstructure and Properties of CMSX-4 Superalloys
Authors: Yu Hao , Xu Wei , Van Der Zwaag Sybrand
Published: November 2017

The degradation of creep resistance in Ni-based single-crystal superalloys is essentially ascribed to their microstructural evolution. Yet there is a lack of work that manages to predict (even qualitatively) the effect of alloying element concentrations on the rate of microstructural degradation. In this research, a computational model is presented to connect the rafting kinetics of Ni superalloys to their chemical composition by combining thermodynamics calculation and a modified microstructural model. To simulate the evolution of key microstructural parameters during creep, the isotropic coarsening rate and γ/γ′ misfit stress are defined as composition-related parameters, and the effect of service temperature, time, and applied stress are taken into consideration. Two commercial superalloys, for which the kinetics of the rafting process are selected as the reference alloys, and the corresponding microstructural parameters are simulated and compared with experimental observations reported in the literature. The results confirm that our physical model not requiring any fitting parameters manages to predict (semiquantitatively) the microstructural parameters for different service conditions, as well as the effects of alloying element concentrations. The model can contribute to the computational design of new Ni-based superalloys.
Who crosses the norms? Predictors of the readiness for non‐normative political participation among adolescents
Authors: Šerek Jan , Machackova Hana , Macek Petr
Published: November 2017

This study investigated whether adolescents' readiness for non‐normative political participation (i.e., readiness to confront social rules for political reasons) was predicted by their interpersonal problems (with parents, teachers, and classmates), low optimism, and political beliefs (political self‐efficacy and distrust in public institutions). A structural equation model using two‐wave longitudinal data from Czech high school students (N = 768; 54% females; age range at T1 = 14–17, M = 15.97; T2 data collected 1.5 years later) showed that the changes in adolescents' readiness for non‐normative participation were predicted by their lower institutional trust. Interpersonal relationships or optimism had no cross‐sectional or longitudinal effect on the readiness for non‐normative participation. These results suggest that the main source of adolescents' readiness for non‐normative political actions lies in their political beliefs, while the effect of adolescents' interpersonal problems is less clear.
Humeral Head Fracture with Intrathoracic Migration
Authors: Gianfilippo Caggiari , Raffaella Mosele Giulia , Leonardo Puddu , Mauro Spiga , Carlo Doria
Published: November 2017

Fracture-dislocation of the humeral head with intrathoracic migration is extremely rare. In our study we describe the case of a 23-year-old man who was admitted to the emergency clinic of our hospital, after being injured in a high-speed motor vehicle accident. The patient presented in a state of hemorrhagic shock and severe respiratory disease. Chest radiography showed fracture of the right humeral head and the presence of a round radio-density area resting on the diaphragm right hemithorax. The total body computed tomography scan revealed a right pneumothorax related to the presence in the chest cavity of the fractured humeral head, longitudinal fracture of the sacrum, and diastasis of the symphysis pubis. After an initial hemodynamic stabilization the patient underwent surgical excision of the humeral head and its replanting. It is important after airway management and the use of diagnostic imaging, the treatment of any injuries associated with the trauma.
Mainprice Receives Paul G. Silver Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: November 2017

David Mainprice will receive the 2017 Paul G. Silver Award for Outstanding Scientific Service at the 2017 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 11–15 December in New Orleans, La. The award is given annually to recognize “a scientist who has made outstanding contributions to the fields of geodesy, seismology, or tectonophysics through mentoring of junior colleagues, leadership of community research initiatives, or other forms of unselfish cooperation in research.”
Gonzalez Receives 2017 Space Weather and Nonlinear Waves and Processes Prize
Authors:   AGU
Published: November 2017

Walter Gonzalez will receive the Space Weather and Nonlinear Waves and Processes Prize at the 2017 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 11–15 December in New Orleans, La. The award recognizes “cutting-edge work in the fields of space weather and nonlinear waves and processes.”
New science of climate change impacts on agriculture implies higher social cost of carbon
Authors: Moore Frances C. , Baldos Uris , Hertel Thomas , Diaz Delavane
Published: November 2017

Despite substantial advances in climate change impact research in recent years, the scientific basis for damage functions in economic models used to calculate the social cost of carbon (SCC) is either undocumented, difficult to trace, or based on a small number of dated studies. Here we present new damage functions based on the current scientific literature and introduce these into an integrated assessment model (IAM) in order to estimate a new SCC. We focus on the agricultural sector, use two methods for determining the yield impacts of warming, and the GTAP CGE model to calculate the economic consequences of yield shocks. These new damage functions reveal far more adverse agricultural impacts than currently represented in IAMs. Impacts in the agriculture increase from net benefits of $2.7 ton−1CO2to net costs of $8.5 ton−1, leading the total SCC to more than double.
Prostate shapes on pre-treatment MRI between prostate cancer patients who do and do not undergo biochemical recurrence are different: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Ghose Soumya , Shiradkar Rakesh , Rusu Mirabela , Mitra Jhimli , Thawani Rajat , Feldman Michael , Gupta Amar C. , Purysko Andrei S. , Ponsky Lee , Madabhushi Anant
Published: November 2017

Early identification of PCa patients at risk for biochemical recurrence (BCR) post-therapy will potentially complement definitive therapy with either neo- or adjuvant therapy to improve prognosis. BCR post definitive therapy is often associated with disease progression that might cause a bulge in the prostate gland. In this work we explored if an atlas-based comparison approach reveals shape differences in the prostate capsule as observed on pre-treatment T2-weighted MRI between prostate cancer patients who do (BCR+) and do not (BCR−) have BCR following definitive therapy. A single center IRB approved study included 874 patients. Complete image datasets, clinically localized PCa, availability of Gleason score, data available for post-treatment PSA and follow-up for at least 3 years in patients without BCR were the inclusion criteria to select 77 patients out of the 874 patients. Further controlling for Gleason score, stage, age and to maintain equal number of cases for the BCR+ and BCR− categories, the total number of cases was reduced to 50. Manually segmented prostate capsules were aligned to a BCR− template for statistical comparison between the BCR+ and BCR− groups. Statistically significant shape difference between the two groups was observed towards the lateral and the posterior sides of prostate.
Genetic variants associated with physical performance and anthropometry in old age: a genome-wide association study in the ilSIRENTE cohort
Authors: Heckerman David , Traynor Bryan J. , Picca Anna , Calvani Riccardo , Marzetti Emanuele , Hernandez Dena , Nalls Michael , Arepali Sampath , Ferrucci Luigi , Landi Francesco
Published: November 2017

Unraveling the complexity of aging is crucial for understanding its mechanisms and its role as a risk factor for most chronic conditions. Advancements marked by genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have sparked interest in gene cataloguing in the context of aging and age-related conditions. Here, we used GWAS to explore whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were associated with functional and anthropometric parameters in a cohort of old community-dwellers enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study. Analyses were carried out in men and women aged 80+ years enrolled in the ilSIRENTE study (n = 286) and replicated in the inCHIANTI study (n = 1055). Genotyping was accomplished on Infinium Human610-QUAD version 1. In the ilSIRENTE population, genetic variants in ZNF295 and C2CD2 (rs928874 and rs1788355) on chromosome 21q22.3, were significantly associated with the 4-meter gait speed (rs928874, p = 5.61 × 10−8; rs1788355, p = 5.73 × 10−8). This association was not replicated in the inCHIANTI population. Our findings suggest that specific SNPs may be associated with a key measure of physical performance in older adults. GWASs using larger samples are needed to confirm these preliminary results to enhance our comprehension of complex age-associated phenomena.
Sirolimus induces depletion of intracellular calcium stores and mitochondrial dysfunction in pancreatic beta cells
Authors: Lombardi Angela , Gambardella Jessica , Du Xue-Liang , Sorriento Daniela , Mauro Maurizio , Iaccarino Guido , Trimarco Bruno , Santulli Gaetano
Published: November 2017

Sirolimus (rapamycin) is an immunosuppressive drug used in transplantation. One of its major side effects is the increased risk of diabetes mellitus; however, the exact mechanisms underlying such association have not been elucidated. Here we show that sirolimus impairs glucose-stimulated insulin secretion both in human and murine pancreatic islets and in clonal β cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Importantly, we demonstrate that sirolimus markedly depletes calcium (Ca2+) content in the endoplasmic reticulum and significantly decreases glucose-stimulated mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. Crucially, the reduced mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake is mirrored by a significant impairment in mitochondrial respiration. Taken together, our findings indicate that sirolimus causes depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores and alters mitochondrial fitness, eventually leading to decreased insulin release. Our results provide a novel molecular mechanism underlying the increased incidence of diabetes mellitus in patients treated with this drug.
Medicinal Plant Leaf Extract and Pure Flavonoid Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and their Enhanced Antibacterial Property
Authors: Jain Siddhant , Mehata Mohan Singh
Published: November 2017

The rewards of using plants and plant metabolites over other biological methods for nanoparticle synthesis have fascinated researchers to investigate mechanisms of metal ions uptake and bio-reduction by plants. Here, green chemistry were employed for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using leaf extracts of Ocimum Sanctum (Tulsi) and its derivative quercetin (flavonoid present in Tulsi) separately as precursors to investigate the role of biomolecules present in Tulsi in the formation of AgNPs from cationic silver under different physicochemical conditions such as pH, temperature, reaction time and reactants concentration. The size, shape, morphology, and stability of resultant AgNPs were investigated by optical spectroscopy (absorption, photoluminescence (PL), PL-lifetime and Fourier transform infrared), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The enhanced antibacterial activity of AgNPs against E-Coli gram-negative bacterial strains was analyzed based on the zone of inhibition and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) indices. The results of different characterization techniques showed that AgNPs synthesized using both leaf extract and neat quercetin separately followed the same optical, morphological, and antibacterial characteristics, demonstrating that biomolecules (quercetin) present in Tulsi are mainly responsible for the reduction of metal ions to metal nanoparticles.
Self-righting potential and the evolution of shell shape in Galápagos tortoises
Authors: Chiari Ylenia , van der Meijden Arie , Caccone Adalgisa , Claude Julien , Gilles Benjamin
Published: November 2017

Self-righting, the capacity of an animal to self-turn after falling on its back, is a fitness-related trait. Delayed self-righting can result in loss of mating opportunities or death. Traits involved in self-righting may therefore be under selection. Galápagos giant tortoises have two main shell morphologies - saddleback and domed – that have been proposed to be adaptive. The more sloped shape on the sides of the shell and the longer extension of neck and legs of the saddlebacks could have evolved to optimize self-righting. The drier environments with more uneven surfaces where the saddleback tortoises occur increases their risk to fall on their back while walking. The ability to fast overturn could reduce the danger of dying. To test this hypothesis, we used 3D shell reconstructions of 89 Galápagos giant tortoises from three domed and two saddleback species to compare self-righting potential of the two shell morphotypes. Our results indicate that saddleback shells require higher energy input to self-right than domed ones. This suggests that several traits associated with the saddleback shell morphology could have evolved to facilitate self-righting. Studying the functional performances of fitness-related traits, as in this work, could provide important insight into the adaptive value of traits.
Disentangling physical and biological drivers of phytoplankton dynamics in a coastal system
Authors: Cianelli Daniela , D’Alelio Domenico , Uttieri Marco , Sarno Diana , Zingone Adriana , Zambianchi Enrico , d’Alcalà Maurizio Ribera
Published: November 2017

This proof-of-concept study integrates the surface currents measured by high-frequency coastal radars with plankton time-series data collected at a fixed sampling point from the Mediterranean Sea (MareChiara Long Term Ecological Research site in the Gulf of Naples) to characterize the spatial origin of phytoplankton assemblages and to scrutinize the processes ruling their dynamics. The phytoplankton community generally originated from the coastal waters whereby species succession was mainly regulated by biological factors (life-cycle processes, species-specific physiological performances and inter-specific interactions). Physical factors, e.g. the alternation between coastal and offshore waters and the horizontal mixing, were also important drivers of phytoplankton dynamics promoting diversity maintenance by i) advecting species from offshore and ii) diluting the resident coastal community so as to dampen resource stripping by dominant species and thereby increase the numerical importance of rarer species. Our observations highlight the resilience of coastal communities, which may favour their persistence over time and the prevalence of successional events over small time and space scales. Although coastal systems may act differently from one another, our findings provide a conceptual framework to address physical–biological interactions occurring in coastal basins, which can be generalised to other areas.
Hypoxia inducible factor-1α mediates the profibrotic effect of albumin in renal tubular cells
Authors: Hu Junping , Wang Weili , Zhang Fan , Li Pin-Lan , Boini Krishna M. , Yi Fan , Li Ningjun
Published: November 2017

Proteinuria is closely associated with the progression of chronic kidney diseases (CKD) by producing renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Over-activation of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α has been implicated in the progression of CKD. The present study tested the hypothesis that HIF-1α mediates albumin-induced profibrotic effect in cultured renal proximal tubular cells. Incubation of the cells with albumin (40 μg/ml) for 72 hrs significantly increased the protein levels of HIF-1α, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and collagen-I, which were blocked by HIF-1α shRNA. Albumin also stimulated an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) as indicated by the decrease in epithelial marker E-cadherin, and the increase in mesenchymal markers α-smooth muscle actin and fibroblast-specific protein 1. HIF-1α shRNA blocked albumin-induced changes in these EMT markers as well. Furthermore, albumin reduced the level of hydroxylated HIF-1α, indicating an inhibition of the activity of prolyl-hydroxylases, enzymes promoting the degradation of HIF-1α. An anti-oxidant ascorbate reversed albumin-induced inhibition of prolyl-hydroxylase activity. Overexpression of prolyl-hydroxylase 2 (PHD2) transgene, a predominant isoform of PHDs in renal tubules, to reduce HIF-1α level significantly attenuated albumin-induced increases in TIMP-1 and collagen-I levels. These results suggest that albumin-induced oxidative stress inhibits PHD activity to accumulate HIF-1α, which mediates albumin-induced profibrotic effects in renal tubular cells.