bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Big data to smart data in Alzheimer's disease: Real‐world examples of advanced modeling and simulation
Authors: Haas Magali , Stephenson Diane , Romero Klaus , Gordon Mark Forrest , Zach Neta , Geerts Hugo ,   Brain Health Modeling Initiative (BHMI)
Published: June 2016

Many disease‐modifying clinical development programs in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have failed to date, and development of new and advanced preclinical models that generate actionable knowledge is desperately needed. This review reports on computer‐based modeling and simulation approach as a powerful tool in AD research. Statistical data‐analysis techniques can identify associations between certain data and phenotypes, such as diagnosis or disease progression. Other approaches integrate domain expertise in a formalized mathematical way to understand how specific components of pathology integrate into complex brain networks. Private‐public partnerships focused on data sharing, causal inference and pathway‐based analysis, crowdsourcing, and mechanism‐based quantitative systems modeling represent successful real‐world modeling examples with substantial impact on CNS diseases. Similar to other disease indications, successful real‐world examples of advanced simulation can generate actionable support of drug discovery and development in AD, illustrating the value that can be generated for different stakeholders.
A Phase 3 Study to Evaluate the 1-Year Efficacy and Safety of Udenafil 75 mg Once Daily in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Moon Ki Hak , Kim Sae Woong , Moon Du Geon , Kim Je Jong , Park Nam Cheol , Lee Sung Won , Paick Jae-Seung , Ahn Tai Young , Chung Woo Sik , Min Kwon Sik , Park Jong Kwan , Yang Dae Yul , Shin Hong Seok , Park Kwangsung
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Once-daily administration of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors has been shown to correct erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety after once-daily oral administration of udenafil 75 mg in men with ED.

Methods

This clinical trial was an open-label, fixed-dose, 24-week extension study (DA8159_EDDL_III) of a 24-week double-blinded efficacy and safety study of once-daily udenafil (parent study: DA8159_EDD_III). Subjects received udenafil 75 mg once daily for 24 weeks during this extension study, and the follow-up visit occurred during the 4-week ED treatment-free period.

Main Outcome Measures

Subjects were asked to complete the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire and the Global Assessment Questionnaire at the 24-week extension and after the 4-week ED treatment-free period, and the development of adverse drug reactions was investigated.

Results

In total, 302 subjects were enrolled in this extension study. Improvement was shown with an increased erectile function (EF) domain score compared with baseline (14.60 ± 4.57) at extension week 48 (23.98 ± 5.44) and a slight increase in EF domain score compared with the last time point (week 24) of the parent study (P < .001). The Global Assessment Questionnaire showed a high improvement rate of 95.4% at the extension 48-week time point. For shift to normal, almost half the subjects (45.1%) recovered “normal” EF, and 14.2% of subjects reported normal erections after the 4-week ED treatment-free period. The occurrence rate of adverse drug reactions was 8%, which consisted mainly of flushing and headache.

Conclusion

Once-daily dosing of udenafil 75 mg showed excellent efficacy and safety with long-term administration and allowed a more spontaneous sexual life.
Sonographic Findings in Subcoracoid Impingement Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Lappin Maura , Gallo Andrew , Krzyzek Monika , Evans Korboi , Chen Yin‐Ting
Published: June 2016

Subcoracoid impingement syndrome is a rare and underrecognized cause of anterior shoulder pain. Currently, subcoracoid impingement syndrome is understood to involve impingement of anatomic structures such as the subcoracoid bursa and subscapularis tendon within the coracohumeral space, and there are no reports of sonographic findings in subcoracoid impingement syndrome other than the impingement of thickened subscapularis bursa. Here we report a case of subcoracoid impingement syndrome, including a novel sonographic finding, arthroscopic findings, and a proposed pathophysiology.

Level of Evidence

V
A randomized controlled trial of amitriptyline versus gabapentin for complex regional pain syndrome type I and neuropathic pain in children
Authors: Brown Stephen , Johnston Bradley , Amaria Khush , Watkins Jessica , Campbell Fiona , Pehora Carolyne , McGrath Patricia
Published: June 2016

Background

Treatment of neuropathic pain in children is challenging, and requires a multimodal approach of pharmacologic, physical, and psychological therapies; however there is little evidence to guide practice. Amitriptyline and gabapentin are first-line drugs for treating neuropathic pain in adults, yet no studies have examined their efficacy, or compared them directly, to determine which might be better for pain relief and sleep disturbance in children.

Methods

After informed consent was obtained, 34 patients aged 7–18 years diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I) or a neuropathic pain condition were randomly allocated to receive either amitriptyline or gabapentin. Patients were followed for 6 weeks and assessed for pain intensity, sleep quality and adverse events. We blinded study personnel, including health-care providers, participants, parents, the research coordinator and the data analyst. Patients then completed quantitative sensory testing (QST) and a psychosocial pain assessment with the team psychologist, within 1–3 days of the start of the trial.

Results

At the end of the 6-week trial, patients on both drugs had important reductions in pain, having surpassed the minimally important difference (MID) of 1. The difference between the groups however was not statistically significant. For the secondary outcomes, we found no statistically significant difference between the two drugs in sleep score or adverse events suggesting that both drugs improve sleep score to a similar degree and are equally safe.

Conclusions

Amitriptyline and gabapentin significantly decreased pain intensity scores and improved sleep. There were no significant differences between the two drugs in their effects on pain reduction or sleep disability.

Implications

Although larger, multi-centred trials are needed to confirm our findings, including longterm follow-up, both drugs appear to be safe and effective in treating paediatric patients in the first-line treatment of CRPS I and neuropathic pain over 6-weeks.
From Leaders, For Leaders: Advice From the Lived Experience of Leaders in Community Health Sector Disaster Recovery After Hurricanes Irene and Sandy
Authors: Craddock Hillary A. , Walsh Lauren , Strauss-Riggs Kandra , Schor Kenneth
Published: June 2016

Objective

Hurricanes Sandy and Irene damaged and destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure, and recovery after these storms took years. The goal of this article was to learn from the lived experience of local-level decision-makers actively involved in the long-term disaster recovery process after Hurricanes Irene and Sandy. Respondents provided professional recommendations, based on their experience, to assist other organizations in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals actively involved in recovery from Hurricane Irene or Hurricane Sandy in 5 different communities. Transcripts were qualitatively analyzed.

Results

Respondents’ advice fell into 5 main categories: planning and evaluation, education and training, fundraising and donations management, building relationships, and disaster behavioral health.

Conclusions

The lived experience of those in disaster recovery can provide guidance for planning, education, and training both within and outside their communities in order to better respond to and recover from future disasters. These data help to facilitate a community of practice by compiling and sharing the lived experience of leaders who experienced large-scale disasters, and the outcomes of this analysis help to show what areas of planning require special attention in the phases of preparedness, response, and recovery. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:623–630)
The Economic Burden of Hospital-Acquired Clostridium difficile Infection: A Population-Based Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Nanwa Natasha , Kwong Jeffrey C. , Krahn Murray , Daneman Nick , Lu Hong , Austin Peter C. , Govindarajan Anand , Rosella Laura C. , Cadarette Suzanne M. , Sander Beate
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

High-quality cost estimates for hospital-acquired Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) are vital evidence for healthcare policy and decision-making.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the costs attributable to hospital-acquired CDI from the healthcare payer perspective.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based propensity-score matched cohort study of incident hospitalized subjects diagnosed with CDI (those with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision, Canada code A04.7) from January 1, 2003, through December 31, 2010, in Ontario, Canada. Infected subjects were matched to uninfected subjects (those without the code A04.7) on age, sex, comorbidities, geography, and other variables, and followed up through December 31, 2011. We stratified results by elective and nonelective admissions. The main study outcomes were up-to-3-year costs, which were evaluated in 2014 Canadian dollars.

RESULTS

We identified 28,308 infected subjects (mean annual incidence, 27.9 per 100,000 population, 3.3 per 1,000 admissions), with a mean age of 71.5 years (range, 0–107 years), 54.0% female, and 8.0% elective admissions. For elective admission subjects, cumulative mean attributable 1-, 2-, and 3-year costs adjusted for survival (undiscounted) were $32,151 (95% CI, $28,192–$36,005), $34,843 ($29,298–$40,027), and $37,171 ($30,364–$43,415), respectively. For nonelective admission subjects, the corresponding costs were $21,909 ($21,221–$22,609), $26,074 ($25,180–$27,014), and $29,944 ($28,873–$31,086), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospital-acquired CDI is associated with substantial healthcare costs. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first CDI costing study to present longitudinal costs. New strategies may be warranted to mitigate this costly infectious disease.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;37:1068–1078
Facies distribution and taphonomy of echinoids from the Fort Payne Formation (late Osagean, early Viséan, Mississippian) of Kentucky
Authors: Thompson Jeffrey R. , Ausich William I.
Published: June 2016

Paleozoic echinoids are exceptionally rare, and little is known of their paleoenvironmental distribution. The echinoid fauna of the Fort Payne Formation (Late Osagean, Early Viséan) of south-central Kentucky is documented. Four genera, ?Archaeocidaris, Lepidocidaris, ?Lepidesthes, and an unidentified lepidocentrid, were recovered and represent three different families. This fauna, and their associated paleoenvironments, give important new insights into the facies distribution of Paleozoic echinoids and the taphonomic biases that affect this distribution. Lepidocidaris is known from the green shale facies, which comprises the core of Fort Payne’s carbonate buildups. ?Archaeocidaris and the lepidocentrid are known from the wackestone buildups and crinoidal packstone buildups. ?Lepidesthes is also known from crinoidal packstone and wackestone buildups, which argues against a semi-infaunal life mode for this taxon. All relatively semiarticulated echinoids were known from autochthonous facies, whereas the only echinoids from the allochthonous facies were disarticulated hemipyramids. Furthermore, deeper-water carbonate buildups were apparently capable of supporting diverse echinoid faunas during the Viséan.
EVALUATION OF TRANSPLANTING BT COTTON IN A COTTON–WHEAT CROPPING SYSTEM
Authors: SHAH MUHAMMAD ASGHAR , FAROOQ MUHAMMAD , HUSSAIN MUBSHAR
Published: June 2016

Cotton–wheat is an important cropping system in South Asia. Introduction of BT cotton has caused the time conflict between sowing of BT cotton and wheat harvest in this cropping system. Wheat is harvested in late April but the best planting time of BT cotton is mid-March, which indicates a time conflict of 30–45 days between two crops in the region. However, this conflict can be managed by raising the cotton nursery and transplanting 30–45 days old seedlings in the field after wheat harvest. This two years field study was conducted to assess the economic feasibility of transplanting BT cotton in BT cotton–wheat cropping system at two locations (Multan, Vehari) in the cotton belt of Punjab, Pakistan. The BT cotton–wheat cropping systems included in the study were; flat sown wheat (FSW) – zero-tilled cotton (ZTC), FSW – conventional-tilled cotton (CTC), ridge sown wheat (RSW) – ridge-transplanted cotton (RTC) (30 days old seedlings), RSW – RTC (45 days old seedlings), bed sown wheat (BSW) – bed-transplanted cotton (BTC) (30 days old seedlings) and BSW – BTC (45 days old seedlings). BSW produced more grain yield than RSW and FSW during both years at both locations. Likewise, BTC (45 days old seedlings) had higher production at both sites during both years. The overall productivity of BT cotton–wheat, in terms of net income, benefit: cost ratio and marginal rate of returns, was the maximum from transplanting 45 days old cotton seedlings on beds after BSW during both years at both sites. Sowing cotton as ZTC following FSW was the least productive cropping system. In conclusion, transplanting 45 days seedlings of BT cotton on beds during late April after harvest of BSW wheat may be opted to manage the time conflict and improve the productivity of BT cotton–wheat cropping system in Punjab, Pakistan.
Wisiting Wienna
Authors: Chamson Emil
Published: June 2016

In contrast to the stereotypical overuse of /v/ in English by German speakers, as in ve vill vait (‘we will wait’), the reverse pattern, wisiting Wienna (‘visiting Vienna’), is the more commonly encountered feature among younger, more experienced and more proficient speakers of English. In simple terms, /w/ for /v/ usage (henceforth: w for v) can be understood as the result of overgeneralization and hypercorrection. That is, the ‘English sound’ /w/ is successfully acquired but used beyond its standard scope, replacing /v/ in syllable-initial position. Thus, the contrast in pairs such as vary/wary, vine/wine and vicar/wicker is neutralized, with both  and  realized as /w/. Instances of overgeneralization and hypercorrection are, unsurprisingly, also found in other areas of German speakers' English. Most such instances tend to be dynamic and subject to change as proficiency increases. W for v, however, is a firmly established feature that, in light of its frequency and distribution, has arguably attained ‘preferred’ sociolinguistic status, i.e. as a marker of (assumed) English competence.
A Decomposition for Hardy Martingales III
Authors: MÜLLER PAUL F. X.
Published: June 2016

We prove Davis decompositions for vector valued Hardy martingales and illustrate their use. This paper continues the work in [18] and [19] on Davis and Garsia Inequalities.
The Owl, the Nightingale and the Jew in the Thorn-bush: Relocating Anti-Semitism in Die Meistersinger
Authors: Grey Thomas , Paige Kirsten
Published: June 2016

For the past twenty-five years a key piece of evidence for an anti-Semitic subtext in Wagner’s Die Meistersinger has been identified in the Grimm Brothers’ anti-Semitic tale ‘The Jew in the Thorn-bush’ and a possible allusion to this in the text of Walther’s Act I ‘trial song’. This article argues that the passages in question are better explained with reference to a medieval poetic tradition still prevalent in nineteenth-century German culture involving the vocal contest between birds, paradigmatically the owl and the nightingale. Since the twelfth century, the owl and the nightingale have debated the merits of high and low art, religious themes, social forms, poetic diction and more. The associations of pedantry and harsh, coarse vocal character with the figure of the owl maps readily onto the negative traits of Beckmesser, just as the contrasting associations of the melodious nightingale with springtime, courtship and ‘natural’ musicality align with traits of Wagner’s artist-hero, Walther von Stolzing. Rather than displacing the possible anti-Semitic reading of Beckmesser, however, this alternative reading of the Beckmesser–Walther antagonism through the lens of avian conflict or debate poetry relocates that reading within a broader discursive and figurative context, one that is more commensurate with the possible role of anti-Semitic subtexts within Wagner’s music dramas in general.
Cholelithiasis in children with CHD: is it a problem?
Authors: Kargl Simon , Gitter Roland , Pumberger Wolfgang
Published: June 2016

Background

An association of heart disease and its treatment with biliary calculi is popularly accepted. We sought determine the prevalence and risk factors of paediatric gallstone disease in the presence of CHD and analyse the treatment options. We evaluated the role of open-heart surgery in the development of gallstones in patients with CHD.

Patients and methods

In a 10-year, retrospective, chart review (2005–2014), patients with CHD and cholelithiasis were identified and reviewed.

Results

In all, 19 of 4729 children with CHD had cholelithiasis (0.4%); eight patients underwent cardiac surgery before diagnosis of cholelithiasis (group 1), whereas 11 of them had not (group 2). The prevalence was 0.3% in group 1 and 0.5% in group 2.

In nine asymptomatic patients, gallstones were found incidentally. Children with cholecystolithiasis (n=17) received ursodeoxycholic acid. A resolution of gallstones was found in four cases; two patients underwent biliary surgery, and the others (15/17) were successfully managed non-operatively.

Conclusion

Despite an accumulation of risk factors, prevalence of gallstones is not as high as expected in children with CHD. Open-heart surgery with a heart–lung machine plays a minor role as an aetiological factor. In about half of the cases, cholelithiasis is an incidental finding and patients stay asymptomatic. Prophylactic administration of ursodeoxycholic acid is not indicated in children undergoing open-heart surgery for CHDs. Biliary surgery is reserved for patients with recurrent symptoms or cholestasis.

In children with CHD, cholelithiasis is a minor and manageable co-morbid condition.
The Fate of Hydrocarbons Seeping from the Ocean Floor
Authors: Yan Wudan
Published: June 2016

Researchers investigate the properties of bubbles at deep-ocean oil seeps to improve oil spill models.
Adapting Weather Forecasting Techniques to Paleoclimate Studies
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: June 2016

First results of the Last Millennium Climate Reanalysis Project demonstrate the potential of the method to improve historical climate estimates by linking proxy data with climate models.
NASA's Juno Spacecraft Set to Orbit Jupiter Starting 4 July
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: June 2016

The spacecraft's titanium vault and a polar orbiting flight plan that avoids intense radiation regions around Jupiter's equator will help reduce damage to Juno's instruments.
Looking into the Future: Using Drawings and Interviews to Uncover Migration Expectations Among Rural Ugandan Youth
Authors: McLaughlin Heidi , Gauvain Mary
Published: June 2016

Rural youth in developing countries make many important decisions about their future including whether to remain in their village or move to the city. The goal of this study was to investigate the migration intentions of rural youth in Uganda and how drawings of their village and the city might reflect these intentions. Participants included 72 youth ages 11–17 years recruited from a public school in the Kibaale district of western Uganda. Participants drew one picture of their village and one picture of Uganda’s capital city, Kampala. Two days later, 30 participants completed an interview regarding intentions to migrate to the city. Results from the drawings suggest that youth see the village and city as affording different opportunities. Interviews revealed that most youth, especially females and older youth, want to migrate to the city, and reasons for moving include obtaining better jobs and because the city has nicer amenities. Intentions to migrate were not strongly reflected in the drawings of the village and city. This study suggests that rural youth in developing countries have similar migration intentions as rural youth in developed countries and, though drawings may not clearly uncover migration intentions, using drawings in future research should be considered.
Recent advances in nanorobotic manipulation inside scanning electron microscopes
Authors: Shi Chaoyang , Luu Devin K , Yang Qinmin , Liu Jun , Chen Jun , Ru Changhai , Xie Shaorong , Luo Jun , Ge Ji , Sun Yu
Published: June 2016

A scanning electron microscope (SEM) provides real-time imaging with nanometer resolution and a large scanning area, which enables the development and integration of robotic nanomanipulation systems inside a vacuum chamber to realize simultaneous imaging and direct interactions with nanoscaled samples. Emerging techniques for nanorobotic manipulation during SEM imaging enable the characterization of nanomaterials and nanostructures and the prototyping/assembly of nanodevices. This paper presents a comprehensive survey of recent advances in nanorobotic manipulation, including the development of nanomanipulation platforms, tools, changeable toolboxes, sensing units, control strategies, electron beam-induced deposition approaches, automation techniques, and nanomanipulation-enabled applications and discoveries. The limitations of the existing technologies and prospects for new technologies are also discussed.
Graphene–aluminum nitride NEMS resonant infrared detector
Authors: Qian Zhenyun , Hui Yu , Liu Fangze , Kang Sungho , Kar Swastik , Rinaldi Matteo
Published: June 2016

The use of micro-/nanoelectromechanical resonators for the room temperature detection of electromagnetic radiation at infrared frequencies has recently been investigated, showing thermal detection capabilities that could potentially outperform conventional microbolometers. The scaling of the device thickness in the nanometer range and the achievement of high infrared absorption in such a subwavelength thickness, without sacrificing the electromechanical performance, are the two key challenges for the implementation of fast, high-resolution micro-/nanoelectromechanical resonant infrared detectors. In this paper, we show that by using a virtually massless, high-electrical-conductivity, and transparent graphene electrode, floating at the van der Waals separation of a few angstroms from a piezoelectric aluminum nitride nanoplate, it is possible to implement ultrathin (460 nm) piezoelectric nanomechanical resonant structures with improved electromechanical performance (>50% improved frequency×quality factor) and infrared detection capabilities (>100× improved infrared absorptance) compared with metal-electrode counterparts, despite their reduced volumes. The intrinsic infrared absorption capabilities of a submicron thin graphene–aluminum nitride plate backed with a metal electrode are investigated for the first time and exploited for the first experimental demonstration of a piezoelectric nanoelectromechanical resonant thermal detector with enhanced infrared absorptance in a reduced volume. Moreover, the combination of electromagnetic and piezoelectric resonances provided by the same graphene–aluminum nitride-metal stack allows the proposed device to selectively detect short-wavelength infrared radiation (by tailoring the thickness of aluminum nitride) with unprecedented electromechanical performance and thermal capabilities. These attributes potentially lead to the development of uncooled infrared detectors suitable for the implementation of high performance, miniaturized and power-efficient multispectral infrared imaging systems.
Merging rhodium-catalysed C–H activation and hydroamination in a highly selective [4+2] imine/alkyne annulation
Authors: Manan Rajith S. , Zhao Pinjing
Published: June 2016

Catalytic C–H activation and hydroamination represent two important strategies for eco-friendly chemical synthesis with high atom efficiency and reduced waste production. Combining both C–H activation and hydroamination in a cascade process, preferably with a single catalyst, would allow rapid access to valuable nitrogen-containing molecules from readily available building blocks. Here we report a single metal catalyst-based approach for N-heterocycle construction by tandem C–H functionalization and alkene hydroamination. A simple catalyst system of cationic rhodium(I) precursor and phosphine ligand promotes redox-neutral [4+2] annulation between N–H aromatic ketimines and internal alkynes to form multi-substituted 3,4-dihydroisoquinolines (DHIQs) in high chemoselectivity over competing annulation processes, exclusive cis-diastereoselectivity, and distinct regioselectivity for alkyne addition. This study demonstrates the potential of tandem C–H activation and alkene hydrofunctionalization as a general strategy for modular and atom-efficient assembly of six-membered heterocycles with multiple chirality centres.
Nanoreporter PET predicts the efficacy of anti-cancer nanotherapy
Authors: Pérez-Medina Carlos , Abdel-Atti Dalya , Tang Jun , Zhao Yiming , Fayad Zahi A. , Lewis Jason S. , Mulder Willem J. M. , Reiner Thomas
Published: June 2016

The application of nanoparticle drug formulations, such as nanoliposomal doxorubicin (Doxil), is increasingly integrated in clinical cancer care. Despite nanomedicine’s remarkable potential and growth over the last three decades, its clinical benefits for cancer patients vary. Here we report a non-invasive quantitative positron emission tomography (PET) nanoreporter technology that is predictive of therapeutic outcome in individual subjects. In a breast cancer mouse model, we demonstrate that co-injecting Doxil and a Zirconium-89 nanoreporter (89Zr-NRep) allows precise doxorubicin (DOX) quantification. Importantly, 89Zr-NRep uptake also correlates with other types of nanoparticles’ tumour accumulation. 89Zr-NRep PET imaging reveals remarkable accumulation heterogeneity independent of tumour size. We subsequently demonstrate that mice with >25 mg kg−1 DOX accumulation in tumours had significantly better growth inhibition and enhanced survival. This non-invasive imaging tool may be developed into a robust inclusion criterion for patients amenable to nanotherapy.
Development of background-free tame fluorescent probes for intracellular live cell imaging
Authors: Alamudi Samira Husen , Satapathy Rudrakanta , Kim Jihyo , Su Dongdong , Ren Haiyan , Das Rajkumar , Hu Lingna , Alvarado-Martínez Enrique , Lee Jung Yeol , Hoppmann Christian , Peña-Cabrera Eduardo , Ha Hyung-Ho , Park Hee-Sung , Wang Lei , Chang Young-Tae
Published: June 2016

Fluorescence labelling of an intracellular biomolecule in native living cells is a powerful strategy to achieve in-depth understanding of the biomolecule’s roles and functions. Besides being nontoxic and specific, desirable labelling probes should be highly cell permeable without nonspecific interactions with other cellular components to warrant high signal-to-noise ratio. While it is critical, rational design for such probes is tricky. Here we report the first predictive model for cell permeable background-free probe development through optimized lipophilicity, water solubility and charged van der Waals surface area. The model was developed by utilizing high-throughput screening in combination with cheminformatics. We demonstrate its reliability by developing CO-1 and AzG-1, a cyclooctyne- and azide-containing BODIPY probe, respectively, which specifically label intracellular target organelles and engineered proteins with minimum background. The results provide an efficient strategy for development of background-free probes, referred to as ‘tame’ probes, and novel tools for live cell intracellular imaging.
Identification of candidate genes and natural allelic variants for QTLs governing plant height in chickpea
Authors: Kujur Alice , Upadhyaya Hari D. , Bajaj Deepak , Gowda C. L. L. , Sharma Shivali , Tyagi Akhilesh K. , Parida Swarup K.
Published: June 2016

In the present study, molecular mapping of high-resolution plant height QTLs was performed by integrating 3625 desi genome-derived GBS (genotyping-by-sequencing)-SNPs on an ultra-high resolution intra-specific chickpea genetic linkage map (dwarf/semi-dwarf desi cv. ICC12299 x tall kabuli cv. ICC8261). The identified six major genomic regions harboring six robust QTLs (11.5–21.3 PVE), associated with plant height, were mapped within <0.5 cM average marker intervals on six chromosomes. Five SNPs-containing genes tightly linked to the five plant height QTLs, were validated based upon their high potential for target trait association (12.9–20.8 PVE) in 65 desi and kabuli chickpea accessions. The vegetative tissue-specific expression, including higher differential up-regulation (>5-fold) of five genes especially in shoot, young leaf, shoot apical meristem of tall mapping parental accession (ICC8261) as compared to that of dwarf/semi-dwarf parent (ICC12299) was apparent. Overall, combining high-resolution QTL mapping with genetic association analysis and differential expression profiling, delineated natural allelic variants in five candidate genes (encoding cytochrome-c-biosynthesis protein, malic oxidoreductase, NADH dehydrogenase iron-sulfur protein, expressed protein and bZIP transcription factor) regulating plant height in chickpea. These molecular tags have potential to dissect complex plant height trait and accelerate marker-assisted genetic enhancement for developing cultivars with desirable plant height ideotypes in chickpea.
Leach-proof magnetic thrombolytic nanoparticles and coatings of enhanced activity
Authors: Drozdov Andrey S. , Vinogradov Vasiliy V. , Dudanov Ivan P. , Vinogradov Vladimir V.
Published: June 2016

Despite the fact that magnetic thrombolytic composites is an emerging area, all known so far systems are based on the similar mechanism of action: thrombolytic enzyme releases from the magnetic carrier leaving non-active matrix, thus making the whole system active only for a limited period of time. Such systems often have very complex structure organization and composition, consisting of materials not approved for parenteral injection, making them poor candidates for real clinical trials and implementation. Here we report, for the first time, the production of thrombolytic magnetic composite material with non-releasing behavior and prolonged action. Obtained composite shows good thrombolytic activity, consists of fully biocompatible materials and could be applied as infinitely active thrombolytic coatings or magnetically-targetable thrombolytic agents.
Multiple magnetic scattering in small-angle neutron scattering of Nd–Fe–B nanocrystalline magnet
Authors: Ueno Tetsuro , Saito Kotaro , Yano Masao , Ito Masaaki , Shoji Tetsuya , Sakuma Noritsugu , Kato Akira , Manabe Akira , Hashimoto Ai , Gilbert Elliot P. , Keiderling Uwe , Ono Kanta
Published: June 2016

We have investigated the influence of multiple scattering on the magnetic small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) from a Nd–Fe–B nanocrystalline magnet. We performed sample-thickness- and neutron-wavelength-dependent SANS measurements, and observed the scattering vector dependence of the multiple magnetic scattering. It is revealed that significant multiple scattering exists in the magnetic scattering rather than the nuclear scattering of Nd–Fe–B nanocrystalline magnet. It is considered that the mean free path of the neutrons for magnetic scattering is rather short in Nd–Fe–B magnets. We analysed the SANS data by the phenomenological magnetic correlation model considering the magnetic microstructures and obtained the microstructural parameters.
Sex Differences in the Recurrence Rate and Risk Factors for Primary Giant Cell Tumors Around the Knee in China
Authors: Hu Yongcheng , Zhao Liming , Zhang Huilin , Yu Xiuchun , Wang Zhen , Ye Zhaoming , Wu Sujia , Guo Shibing , Zhang Guochuan , Wang Jinghua , Ning Xianjia
Published: June 2016

Although giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) is more common in women in Western countries, it tends to be more common in men in Asian countries. We aimed to determine the sex differences in clinical characteristics, local recurrence rate, and relevant risk factors for local recurrence in primary GCTB around the knee. Between March 2000 and June 2014, patients with primary GCTB around the knee were recruited from 7 institutions in China, and 410 patients were included. The age at diagnosis was younger in women than in men (34.0 vs 37.2 years). The local recurrence rates were 23.4% overall, 25.8% in men, and 20.7% in women. Lower local recurrence rates were observed with en-bloc marginal resection in both men (6.9%) and women (3.1%). With tumors located in the distal femur, the local recurrence rate was higher for men than for women (29.1% vs 14.3%, P = 0.025). Local recurrence was significantly associated with the tumor location and surgical operation in men and only surgical operation in women. These findings suggest that more aggressive operations should be considered in men with GCTB in the proximal fibula.
Cholecystectomy is associated with higher risk of early recurrence and poorer survival after curative resection for early stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Li Tao , Wang Shu-Kang , Zhi Xu-Ting , Zhou Jian , Dong Zhao-Ru , Zhang Zong-Li , Sun Hui-Chuan , Ye Qing-Hai , Fan Jia
Published: June 2016

Although cholecystectomy has been reported to be associated with increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the association between cholecystectomy and prognosis of HCC patients underwent curative resection has never been examined. Through retrospective analysis of the data of 3933 patients underwent curative resection for HCC, we found that cholecystectomy was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence-free survival (RFS) of patients at early stage (BCLC stage 0/A) (p = 0.020, HR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.04–1.59), and the 1-, 3-, 5-year RFS rates for patients at early stage were significantly worse in cholecystectomy group than in non-cholecystectomy group (80.5%, 61.8%, 52.0% vs 88.2%, 68.8%, 56.8%, p = 0.033). The early recurrence rate of cholecystectomy group was significantly higher than that of non-cholecystectomy group for patients at early stage (59/47 vs 236/333, p = 0.007), but not for patients at advanced stage (BCLC stage C) (p = 0.194). Multivariate analyses showed that cholecystectomy was an independent risk factor for early recurrence (p = 0.005, HR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.13–2.03) of early stage HCC, but not for late recurrence (p = 0.959). In conclusion, cholecystectomy is an independent predictor for early recurrence and is associated with poorer RFS of early stage HCC. Removal of normal gallbladder during HCC resection may be avoided for early stage patients.
Changes of multi-scale structure during mimicked DSC heating reveal the nature of starch gelatinization
Authors: Wang Shujun , Zhang Xiu , Wang Shuo , Copeland Les
Published: June 2016

A thorough understanding of starch gelatinization is extremely important for precise control of starch functional properties for food processing and human nutrition. Here we reveal the molecular mechanism of starch gelatinization by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in conjunction with a protocol using the rapid viscosity analyzer (RVA) to generate material for analysis under conditions that simulated the DSC heating profiles. The results from DSC, FTIR, Raman, X-ray diffraction and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analyses all showed that residual structural order remained in starch that was heated to the DSC endotherm end temperature in starch:water mixtures of 0.5 to 4:1 (v/w). We conclude from this study that the DSC endotherm of starch at a water:starch ratio of 2 to 4 (v/w) does not represent complete starch gelatinization. The DSC endotherm of starch involves not only the water uptake and swelling of amorphous regions, but also the melting of starch crystallites.
Genomics of high molecular weight plasmids isolated from an on-farm biopurification system
Authors: Martini María C. , Wibberg Daniel , Lozano Mauricio , Torres Tejerizo Gonzalo , Albicoro Francisco J. , Jaenicke Sebastian , van Elsas Jan Dirk , Petroni Alejandro , Garcillán-Barcia M. Pilar , de la Cruz Fernando , Schlüter Andreas , Pühler Alfred , Pistorio Mariano , Lagares Antonio , Del Papa María F.
Published: June 2016

The use of biopurification systems (BPS) constitutes an efficient strategy to eliminate pesticides from polluted wastewaters from farm activities. BPS environments contain a high microbial density and diversity facilitating the exchange of information among bacteria, mediated by mobile genetic elements (MGEs), which play a key role in bacterial adaptation and evolution in such environments. Here we sequenced and characterized high-molecular-weight plasmids from a bacterial collection of an on-farm BPS. The high-throughput-sequencing of the plasmid pool yielded a total of several Mb sequence information. Assembly of the sequence data resulted in six complete replicons. Using in silico analyses we identified plasmid replication genes whose encoding proteins represent 13 different Pfam families, as well as proteins involved in plasmid conjugation, indicating a large diversity of plasmid replicons and suggesting the occurrence of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events within the habitat analyzed. In addition, genes conferring resistance to 10 classes of antimicrobial compounds and those encoding enzymes potentially involved in pesticide and aromatic hydrocarbon degradation were found. Global analysis of the plasmid pool suggest that the analyzed BPS represents a key environment for further studies addressing the dissemination of MGEs carrying catabolic genes and pathway assembly regarding degradation capabilities.
Hidden surface microstructures on Carboniferous insect Brodioptera sinensis (Megasecoptera) enlighten functional morphology and sensorial perception
Authors: Prokop Jakub , Pecharová Martina , Ren Dong
Published: June 2016

Megasecoptera are insects with haustellate mouthparts and petiolate wings closely related to Palaeodictyoptera and one of the few insect groups that didn’t survive the Permian-Triassic mass extinction. Recent discovery of Brodioptera sinensis in early Pennsylvanian deposits at Xiaheyan in northern China has increased our knowledge of its external morphology using conventional optical stereomicroscopy. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) of structures, such as antennae, mouthparts, wing surfaces, external copulatory organs and cerci have shed light on their micromorphology and supposed function. A comparative study has shown an unexpected dense pattern of setae on the wing membrane of B. sinensis. In addition, unlike the results obtained by stereomicroscopy it revealed that the male and female external genitalia clearly differ in their fine structure and setation. Therefore, the present study resulted in a closer examination of the microstructure and function of previously poorly studied parts of the body of Paleozoic insects and a comparison with homologous structures occurring in other Palaeodictyopteroida, Odonatoptera and Ephemerida. This indicates, that the role and presumptive function of these integumental protuberances is likely to have been a sensory one in the coordination of mouthparts and manipulation of stylets, escape from predators, enhancement of aerodynamic properties and copulatory behaviour.
Current-induced SQUID behavior of superconducting Nb nano-rings
Authors: Sharon Omri J. , Shaulov Avner , Berger Jorge , Sharoni Amos , Yeshurun Yosef
Published: June 2016

The critical temperature in a superconducting ring changes periodically with the magnetic flux threading it, giving rise to the well-known Little-Parks magnetoresistance oscillations. Periodic changes of the critical current in a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), consisting of two Josephson junctions in a ring, lead to a different type of magnetoresistance oscillations utilized in detecting extremely small changes in magnetic fields. Here we demonstrate current-induced switching between Little-Parks and SQUID magnetoresistance oscillations in a superconducting nano-ring without Josephson junctions. Our measurements in Nb nano-rings show that as the bias current increases, the parabolic Little-Parks magnetoresistance oscillations become sinusoidal and eventually transform into oscillations typical of a SQUID. We associate this phenomenon with the flux-induced non-uniformity of the order parameter along a superconducting nano-ring, arising from the superconducting leads (‘arms’) attached to it. Current enhanced phase slip rates at the points with minimal order parameter create effective Josephson junctions in the ring, switching it into a SQUID.
Translation and Rotation of Transformation Media under Electromagnetic Pulse
Authors: Gao Fei , Shi Xihang , Lin Xiao , Xu Hongyi , Zhang Baile
Published: June 2016

It is well known that optical media create artificial geometry for light and curved geometry acts as an effective optical medium. This correspondence originates from the form invariance of Maxwell’s equations, which recently has spawned a booming field called ‘transformation optics’. Here we investigate responses of three transformation media under electromagnetic pulses and find that pulse radiation can induce unbalanced net force on transformation media, which will cause translation and rotation of transformation media although their final momentum can still be zero. Therefore, the transformation media do not necessarily stay the same after an electromagnetic wave passes through.
Magnetic response properties of gaudiene – a cavernous and aromatic carbocage
Authors: Rauhalahti M. , Muñoz-Castro A. , Sundholm D.
Published: June 2016

The particular architecture of a cavernous structure is studied to unravel the characteristics of its magnetic response properties.
Siliceous tin phosphates as effective bifunctional catalysts for selective conversion of dihydroxyacetone to lactic acid
Authors: Wang Xincheng , Liang Fengbing , Huang Chongpin , Li Yingxia , Chen Biaohua
Published: June 2016

Siliceous tin phosphates were demonstrated to be efficient Brønsted–Lewis acid bifunctional catalysts during the conversion of triose sugars to LA under hydrothermal conditions.
Pyrithione-based ruthenium complexes as inhibitors of aldo–keto reductase 1C enzymes and anticancer agents
Authors: Kljun Jakob , Anko Maja , Traven Katja , Sinreih Maša , Pavlič Renata , Peršič Špela , Ude Žiga , Codina Elisa Esteve , Stojan Jure , Lanišnik Rižner Tea , Turel Iztok
Published: June 2016

Four ruthenium complexes of clinically used zinc ionophore pyrithione and its oxygen analog were evaluated as inhibitors of aldo–keto reductases 1C.
Designed synthesis of multi-functional PEGylated Yb2O3:Gd@SiO2@CeO2islands core@shell nanostructure
Authors: Li Junqi , Yao Shuang , Song Shuyan , Wang Xiao , Wang Yinghui , Ding Xing , Wang Fan , Zhang Hongjie
Published: June 2016

We produce the core@shell structure of PEGylated Yb2O3:Gd@SiO2@CeO2islands, which exhibit a high-performance dual-modal contrast agent in MRI and CT and excellent catalase mimetic activity.
Supramolecular guest relay using host-protein nanocavities: an application of host-induced guest protonation
Authors: Chandra Falguni , Pal Kaushik , Lathwal Sushil , Koner Apurba L.
Published: June 2016

Small drug molecules and other important metabolites are delivered via a suitable carrier protein-mediated transport through a specific receptor.
Electrochemical synthesis of polyaniline cross-linked NiMoO4 nanofibre dendrites for energy storage devices
Authors: Ramkumar Ramya , Sundaram Manickam Minakshi
Published: June 2016

An effective cross-linking strategy for grafting polyaniline with a nanomaterial such as nickel molybdate provides long term cyclability for the fabricated energy storage device.
Hexahalometallate salts of trivalent scandium, yttrium and lanthanum: cation–anion association in the solid state and in solution
Authors: Champion Martin J. D. , Levason William , Pugh David , Reid Gillian
Published: June 2016

The hydrogen bonding of hexahalometallate anions with various organic cations is explored via crystallographic and solution NMR studies.
Computational genomic identification and functional reconstitution of plant natural product biosynthetic pathways
Authors: Medema Marnix H. , Osbourn Anne
Published: June 2016

The last decade has seen the first major discoveries regarding the genomic basis of plant natural product biosynthetic pathways.
Pd(ii)-catalyzed direct functionalization of C–H bonds of benzamides for synthesis of 1,1-difluoro-1-alkenes
Authors: Li Chunpu , Zhang Dengyou , Zhu Wei , Wan Penghui , Liu Hong
Published: June 2016

Pd-catalyzed difluoroallylation of unactivated C(sp2)–H bonds with readily available Rf-Br reagents is described.
Quinone and its derivatives for energy harvesting and storage materials
Authors: Son Eun Jin , Kim Jae Hong , Kim Kayoung , Park Chan Beum
Published: June 2016

Recent advances in the design of quinone-functionalized hybrid materials are reviewed based on quinone's redox, electrical, optical, and metal chelating/reducing properties to determine these materials' applications in energy harvesting and storage systems.
Enhanced conversion reaction kinetics in low crystallinity SnO2/CNT anodes for Na-ion batteries
Authors: Cui Jiang , Xu Zheng-Long , Yao Shanshan , Huang Jiaqiang , Huang Jian-Qiu , Abouali Sara , Garakani Mohammad Akbari , Ning Xiaohui , Kim Jang-Kyo
Published: June 2016

A low crystallinity SnO2/CNT composite anode delivers a superior electrochemical performance in Na-ion batteries through enhanced kinetics of conversion reactions with a faster ion diffusion rate.
Resolving the source of blue luminescence from alkyl-capped silicon nanoparticles synthesized by laser pulse ablation
Authors: Dewan Shalaka , Odhner Johanan H. , Tibbetts Katharine Moore , Afsari Sepideh , Levis Robert J. , Borguet Eric
Published: June 2016

Photoluminescence from alkyl-capped silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) synthesized by pulsed laser ablation is resolved into two components: narrowband UV emission from the alkyl-capped Si NPs and broadly tuneable (350–500 nm) blue emission associated with a solvent by-product.