bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Empirical Modeling of Physiochemical Immune Response of Multilayer Zinc Oxide Nanomaterials under UV Exposure to Melanoma and Foreskin Fibroblasts
Authors: Fakhar-e-Alam Muhammad , Akram M. Waseem , Iqbal Seemab , Alimgeer K. S. , Atif M. , Sultana K. , Willander M. , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: April 2017

Carcinogenesis is a complex molecular process starting with genetic and epigenetic alterations, mutation stimulation, and DNA modification, which leads to proteomic adaptation ending with an uncontrolled proliferation mechanism. The current research focused on the empirical modelling of the physiological response of human melanoma cells (FM55P) and human foreskin fibroblasts cells (AG01518) to the multilayer zinc oxide (ZnO) nanomaterials under UV-A exposure. To validate this experimental scheme, multilayer ZnO nanomaterials were grown on a femtotip silver capillary and conjugated with protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). Furthermore, PpIX-conjugated ZnO nanomaterials grown on the probe were inserted into human melanoma (FM55P) and foreskin fibroblasts cells (AG01518) under UV-A light exposure. Interestingly, significant cell necrosis was observed because of a loss in mitochondrial membrane potential just after insertion of the femtotip tool. Intense reactive oxygen species (ROS) fluorescence was observed after exposure to the ZnO NWs conjugated with PpIX femtotip model under UV exposure. Results were verified by applying several experimental techniques, e.g., ROS detection, MTT assay, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The present work reports experimental modelling of cell necrosis in normal human skin as well as a cancerous tissue. These obtained results pave the way for a more rational strategy for biomedical and clinical applications.
Electrochemistry-mass spectrometry for mechanism study of oxygen reduction at water/oil interface
Authors: Liu Shu-Juan , Yu Zheng-Wei , Qiao Liang , Liu Bao-Hong
Published: April 2017

Electrochemistry methods have been widely employed in the development of renewable energy, and involved in various processes, e.g. water splitting and oxygen reduction. Remarkable progress notwithstanding, there are still many challenges in further optimization of catalysts to achieve high performance. For this purpose, an in-depth understanding of reaction mechanism is needed. In this study, an electrochemistry-mass spectrometry method based on a Y-shaped dual-channel microchip as electrochemical cell and ionization device was demonstrated. Combined solutions of aqueous phase and oil phase were introduced into mass spectrometer directly when electrochemical reactions were happening to study the reduction of oxygen by decamethylferrocene or tetrathiafulvalene under the catalysis of a metal-free porphyrin, tetraphenylporphyrin, at water/1,2-dichloroethane interfaces. Monoprotonated and diprotonated tetraphenylporphyrin were detected by mass spectrometer, confirming the previously proposed mechanism of the oxygen reduction reaction. This work offers a new approach to study electrochemical reactions at liquid-liquid interface.
Tissue accumulation of microplastics in mice and biomarker responses suggest widespread health risks of exposure
Authors: Deng Yongfeng , Zhang Yan , Lemos Bernardo , Ren Hongqiang
Published: April 2017

Microplastics (MPs) are a significant environmental health issue and increasingly greater source of concern. MPs have been detected in oceans, rivers, sediments, sewages, soil and even table salts. MPs exposure on marine organisms and humans has been documented, but information about the toxicity of MPs in mammal is limited. Here we used fluorescent and pristine polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) particles with two diameters (5 μm and 20 μm) to investigate the tissue distribution, accumulation, and tissue-specific health risk of MPs in mice. Results indicated that MPs accumulated in liver, kidney and gut, with a tissue-accumulation kinetics and distribution pattern that was strongly depended on the MPs particle size. In addition, analyses of multiple biochemical biomarkers and metabolomic profiles suggested that MPs exposure induced disturbance of energy and lipid metabolism as well as oxidative stress. Interestingly, blood biomarkers of neurotoxicity were also altered. Our results uncovered the distribution and accumulation of MPs across mice tissues and revealed significant alteration in several biomarkers that indicate potential toxicity from MPs exposure. Collectively, our data provided new evidence for the adverse consequences of MPs.
Pathways and Genes Associated with Immune Dysfunction in Sheep Paratuberculosis
Authors: Gossner Anton , Watkins Craig , Chianini Francesca , Hopkins John
Published: April 2017

Multibacillary and paucibacillary paratuberculosis are both caused byMycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosis. Multibacillary lesions are composed largely of infected epithelioid macrophages and paucibacillary lesions contain T cells but few bacteria. Multibacillary disease is similar to human lepromatous leprosy, with variable/high levels of antibody and a dysfunctional immune response. Animals with paucibacillary disease have high cell-mediated immunity and variable levels of antibody. This study aims to characterize the immunological dysfunction using TruSeq analysis of the ileocaecal lymph node that drains disease lesions. Immune dysfunction is highlighted by repression ofTCR/CD3genes, T cell co-receptors/co-stimulators, T cell activation and signal-transduction genes. Inflammation was an acute phase response and chronic inflammation, with little evidence of acute inflammation. The high levels of immunoglobulin and plasma cell transcripts is consistent with the anti-MAP antibody responses in paratuberculosis sheep. Also notable was the overwhelming reduction in mast cell transcripts, potentially affecting DC activation of the immune response. This study also shows that there were no fundamental differences in the gene expression patterns in multibacillary and paucibacillary disease, no shift in T cell genes from Th1 to Th2 pattern but rather an incremental decline into immune dysfunction leading to multibacillary pathology.
Key role of 15-LO/15-HETE in angiogenesis and functional recovery in later stages of post-stroke mice
Authors: Wang Di , Liu Yu , Chen Li , Li Pengyan , Qu Youyang , Zhu Yanmei , Zhu Yulan
Published: April 2017

This study sought to clarify the effects of 15-lipoxygenase/15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in angiogenesis and neurological functional recovery after cerebral ischaemic stroke in mice. In vivo, we performed behavioural tests to determine functional recovery after stroke. Double immunofluorescence staining of CD31 and Ki67/PCNA was performed to evaluate the effects of 15-lipoxygenase/15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid on angiogenesis in an MCAO mouse model. In vitro, we investigated the effects of 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid on BMVEC proliferation and migration. Our results show that MCAO upregulates 15-lipoxygenase expression in a time-dependent manner, especially in later stages of post-stroke. We confirmed that cerebral infarct area was reduced and neurological dysfunction was gradually attenuated after stroke, while 12/15-lipoxygenase knockout mice exhibited the opposite effects. Furthermore, immunofluorescence studies revealed 15-lipoxygenase increased the proliferation of mouse brain vascular endothelial cells in a time-dependent manner, while 12/15-lipoxygenase knockout blocked these effects. Moreover, 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid promoted proliferation and tube formation in BMVECs. These results demonstrate positive influence of 15-lipoxygenase/15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in angiogenesis and neuronal recovery after ischaemic stroke in mice. We also confirmed the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway was necessary for the effects of 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in regulation of BMVEC proliferation and migration, which may potentially be a novel target for the recovery from ischaemic stroke.
iTRAQ-based proteomic analysis reveals key proteins affecting muscle growth and lipid deposition in pigs
Authors: Wang Zhixiu , Shang Peng , Li Qinggang , Wang Liyuan , Chamba Yangzom , Zhang Bo , Zhang Hao , Wu Changxin
Published: April 2017

Growth rate and meat quality, two economically important traits in pigs, are controlled by multiple genes and biological pathways. In the present study, we performed a proteomic analysis of longissimus dorsi muscle from six-month-old pigs from two Chinese native mini-type breeds (TP and DSP) and two introduced western breeds (YY and LL) using isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ). In total, 4,815 peptides corresponding to 969 proteins were detected. Comparison of expression patterns between TP-DSP and YY-LL revealed 288 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), of which 169 were up-regulated and 119 were down-regulated. Functional annotation suggested that 28 DEPs were related to muscle growth and 15 to lipid deposition. Protein interaction network predictions indicated that differences in muscle growth and muscle fibre between TP-DSP and YY-LL groups were regulated by ALDOC, ENO3, PGK1, PGK2, TNNT1, TNNT3, TPM1, TPM2, TPM3, MYL3, MYH4, and TNNC2, whereas differences in lipid deposition ability were regulated by LPL, APOA1, APOC3, ACADM, FABP3, ACADVL, ACAA2, ACAT1, HADH, and PECI. Twelve DEPs were analysed using parallel reaction monitoring to confirm the reliability of the iTRAQ analysis. Our findings provide new insights into key proteins involved in muscle growth and lipid deposition in the pig.
Stretchable Ag electrodes with mechanically tunable optical transmittance on wavy-patterned PDMS substrates
Authors: Ko Eun-Hye , Kim Hyo-Joong , Lee Sang-Mok , Kim Tae-Woong , Kim Han-Ki
Published: April 2017

We report on semi-transparent stretchable Ag films coated on a wavy-patterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate for use as stretchable electrodes for stretchable and transparent electronics. To improve the mechanical stretchability of the Ag films, we optimized the wavy-pattern of the PDMS substrate as a function of UV-ozone treatment time and pre-strain of the PDMS substrate. In addition, we investigated the effect of the Ag thickness on the mechanical stretchability of the Ag electrode formed on the wavy-patterned PDMS substrate. The semi-transparent Ag films formed on the wavy-patterned PDMS substrate showed better stretchability (strain 20%) than the Ag films formed on a flat PDMS substrate because the wavy pattern effectively relieved strain. In addition, the optical transmittance of the Ag electrode on the wavy-patterned PDMS substrate was tunable based on the degree of stretching for the PDMS substrate. In particular, it was found that the wavy-patterned PDMS with a smooth buckling was beneficial for a precise patterning of Ag interconnectors. Furthermore, we demonstrated the feasibility of semi-transparent Ag films on wavy-patterned PDMS as stretchable electrodes for the stretchable electronics based on bending tests, hysteresis tests, and dynamic fatigue tests.
Allele-Selective Suppression of Mutant Huntingtin in Primary Human Blood Cells
Authors: Miller James R. C. , Pfister Edith L. , Liu Wanzhao , Andre Ralph , Träger Ulrike , Kennington Lori A. , Lo Kimberly , Dijkstra Sipke , Macdonald Douglas , Ostroff Gary , Aronin Neil , Tabrizi Sarah J.
Published: April 2017

Post-transcriptional gene silencing is a promising therapy for the monogenic, autosomal dominant, Huntington’s disease (HD). However, wild-type huntingtin (HTT) has important cellular functions, so the ideal strategy would selectively lower mutant HTT while sparing wild-type. HD patients were genotyped for heterozygosity at three SNP sites, before phasing each SNP allele to wild-type or mutant HTT. Primary ex vivo myeloid cells were isolated from heterozygous patients and transfected with SNP-targeted siRNA, using glucan particles taken up by phagocytosis. Highly selective mRNA knockdown was achieved when targeting each allele of rs362331 in exon 50 of the HTT transcript; this selectivity was also present on protein studies. However, similar selectivity was not observed when targeting rs362273 or rs362307. Furthermore, HD myeloid cells are hyper-reactive compared to control. Allele-selective suppression of either wild-type or mutant HTT produced a significant, equivalent reduction in the cytokine response of HD myeloid cells to LPS, suggesting that wild-type HTT has a novel immune function. We demonstrate a sequential therapeutic process comprising genotyping and mutant HTT-linkage of SNPs, followed by personalised allele-selective suppression in a small patient cohort. We further show that allele-selectivity in ex vivo patient cells is highly SNP-dependent, with implications for clinical trial target selection.
Photon-phonon-photon transfer in optomechanics
Authors: Rakhubovsky Andrey A. , Filip Radim
Published: April 2017

We consider transfer of a highly nonclassical quantum state through an optomechanical system. That is we investigate a protocol consisting of sequential upload, storage and reading out of the quantum state from a mechanical mode of an optomechanical system. We show that provided the input state is in a test-bed single-photon Fock state, the Wigner function of the recovered state can have negative values at the origin, which is a manifest of nonclassicality of the quantum state of the macroscopic mechanical mode and the overall transfer protocol itself. Moreover, we prove that the recovered state is quantum non-Gaussian for wide range of setup parameters. We verify that current electromechanical and optomechanical experiments can test this complete transfer of single photon.
Combined use of AFM and soft X-ray microscopy to reveal fibres’ internalization in mesothelial cells
Authors: Gianoncelli Alessandra , Kourousias George , Cammisuli Francesca , Cassese Damiano , Rizzardi Clara , Radillo Oriano , Lazzarino Marco , Pascolo Lorella
Published: April 2017

Nanotoxicology and nanomedicine investigations often require the probing of nano-objects such as fibres and particles in biological samples and cells, whilst internalization and intracellular destiny are the main issues forin vitrocellular studies.
The mechanism of oxidation in chromophore maturation of wild-type green fluorescent protein: a theoretical study
Authors: Ma Yingying , Sun Qiao , Smith Sean C.
Published: April 2017

DFT calculations suggested that the thermodynamically unfavourable cyclized product was trapped by oxidation.
Molecular dynamics approach to understand the denaturing effect of a millimolar concentration of dodine on a λ-repressor and counteraction by trehalose
Authors: Borgohain Gargi , Mandal Bikramaditya , Paul Sandip
Published: April 2017

Here, we use a molecular dynamics approach to calculate the spatial distribution function of the ternary water–dodine–trehalose (1.0 M) system.
Designing CO2-resistant oxygen-selective mixed ionic–electronic conducting membranes: guidelines, recent advances, and forward directions
Authors: Zhang Chi , Sunarso Jaka , Liu Shaomin
Published: April 2017

This review discusses the know-how in CO2resistance for oxygen-selective mixed ionic–electronic conducting membranes.
A gold nanocluster-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for cysteine and homocysteine detection in living cells
Authors: Yu Hui , Liu Yan , Wang Jiamin , Liang Qing , Liu Hong , Xu Jian , Shao Shijun
Published: April 2017

A novel organic–inorganic ratiometric fluorescent probe AuNCs–NBD was developed for the detection of cysteine (Cys) and homocysteine (Hcy).
Quantification of intractable membrane proteins in genetically engineered crops by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Schacherer Lindsey J. , Owens Michaela A. , Hu Tiger X.
Published: April 2017

Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) methods to quantify a membrane protein in genetically engineered maize leaves and another in soybean seeds were developed and validated.
A boosting extreme learning machine for near-infrared spectral quantitative analysis of diesel fuel and edible blend oil samples
Authors: Bian Xihui , Zhang Caixia , Tan Xiaoyao , Dymek Michal , Guo Yugao , Lin Ligang , Cheng Bowen , Hu Xiaoyu
Published: April 2017

A novel boosting extreme learning machine is proposed for near-infrared spectral quantitative analysis which greatly enhances predictive accuracy and stability.
Practical corrections for p(H,D) measurements in mixed H2O/D2O biological buffers
Authors: Rubinson Kenneth A.
Published: April 2017

Changes in the p(H,D) measured in H2O and D2O may be small since the glass electrode's surface equilibrium changes too.
Highly efficient fluorescent and colorimetric sensing of organic amine vapors based on organometal halide perovskite nanostructures
Authors: Wu Pengcheng , He Qingguo , Zhu Defeng , Jiang Haibo , Jiao Zinuo , Zhang Yu , Xu Wei , Fu Yanyan , Cao Huimin , Cheng Jiangong
Published: April 2017

A simple, highly stable and sensitive fluorescent and colorimetric probe for trace organic amine vapor detection based on CH3NH3PbBr3 nanoplates/nanowires.
Conjugated D–A porphyrin dimers for solution-processed bulk-heterojunction organic solar cells
Authors: Lai Tianqi , Chen Xuebin , Xiao Liangang , Zhang Lin , Liang Tianxiang , Peng Xiaobin , Cao Yong
Published: April 2017

Three porphyrin dimers with different linkages are synthesized as donors for organic photovoltaics with an optimized PCE of 6.42%.
Stereoselective synthesis of γ-hydroxy-α-amino acids through aldolase–transaminase recycling cascades
Authors: Guérard-Hélaine Christine , Heuson Egon , Ndiaye Moussa , Gourbeyre Léa , Lemaire Marielle , Hélaine Virgil , Charmantray Franck , Petit Jean-Louis , Salanoubat Marcel , de Berardinis Véronique , Gefflaut Thierry
Published: April 2017

Efficient aldolase (AL)–transaminase (TA) recycling cascades were designed for the stereoselective synthesis of γ-hydroxy-α-amino acids with high atom economy.
The first fluorogenic sensor for sphingosine-1-phosphate lyase activity in intact cells
Authors: Sanllehí Pol , Casasampere Mireia , Abad José-Luis , Fabriàs Gemma , López Olga , Bujons Jordi , Casas Josefina , Delgado Antonio
Published: April 2017

The first fluorogenic sensor for the quantification of S1PL activity in intact cells is reported.
Reversible restructuring of supported Au nanoparticles during butadiene hydrogenation revealed by operando GISAXS/GIWAXS
Authors: James Martin David , Decarolis Donato , Odarchenko Yaroslav I. , Herbert Jennifer J. , Arnold Thomas , Rawle Jonathan , Nicklin Chris , Boyen Hans-Gerd , Beale Andrew M.
Published: April 2017

Supported Au NPs on Si substrates were found to reversibly change size and shape during hydrogenation of C4H6 as studied by GISAXS/GIWAXS.
A catalytic assembled enzyme-free three-dimensional DNA walker and its sensing application
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Lei , Jiang Wei
Published: April 2017

A novel and enzyme-free three-dimensional DNA walker powered by catalytic assembly has been constructed.
A dynamic invertible intramolecular charge-transfer fluorescence probe: real-time monitoring of mitochondrial ATPase activity
Authors: Zhang Hua , Wang Yafu , Xuan Xiaopeng , Wang Ge , Guo Haiming , Fan Jiangli
Published: April 2017

A dynamic invertible intramolecular charge-transfer fluorescence probe was successfully utilized for the real-time monitoring of mitochondrial ATPase activity.
Tuning crystalline ordering by annealing and additives to study its effect on exciton diffusion in a polyalkylthiophene copolymer
Authors: Chowdhury Mithun , Sajjad Muhammad T. , Savikhin Victoria , Hergué Noémie , Sutija Karina B. , Oosterhout Stefan D. , Toney Michael F. , Dubois Philippe , Ruseckas Arvydas , Samuel Ifor D. W.
Published: April 2017

The influence of processing conditions on singlet exciton diffusion is studied in films of a conjugated copolymer P3HT-co-P3DDT.
Improved catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline solutions through the electrochemical formation of nickel-reduced graphene oxide interface
Authors: Gutić Sanjin J. , Dobrota Ana S. , Leetmaa Mikael , Skorodumova Natalia V. , Mentus Slavko V. , Pašti Igor A.
Published: April 2017

The hydrogen evolution reaction is significantly boosted at the Ni-reduced graphene oxide interface via spillover of discharged H adatoms.
Well incorporation of carbon nanodots with silicon nanowire arrays featuring excellent photocatalytic performances
Authors: Chen Chia-Yun , Hsiao Po-Hsuan , Wei Ta-Cheng , Chen Ting-Chen , Tang Chien-Hsin
Published: April 2017

Broad-band and high efficiency photocatalytic systems were demonstrated through the incorporation of silicon nanowires with highly fluorescent carbon nanodots.
Antiradical activity of catecholamines and metabolites of dopamine: theoretical and experimental study
Authors: Dimić D. , Milenković D. , Dimitrić Marković J. , Marković Z.
Published: April 2017

Reactions of catecholamines with the DPPH radical, experimentally and theoretically investigated, proved that SPLET is the dominant mechanism for antioxidant activity.
Mechanistic origin of low polarization in aprotic Na–O2 batteries
Authors: Ma Shunchao , McKee William C. , Wang Jiawei , Guo Limin , Jansen Martin , Xu Ye , Peng Zhangquan
Published: April 2017

The mechanistic difference between Li–O2 and Na–O2 batteries has been revealed by in situ spectroscopy coupled with theory calculations.
The influence of carbon concentration on the electronic structure and magnetic properties of carbon implanted ZnO thin films
Authors: Saravanan K. , Jayalakshmi G. , Chandra Sharat , Panigrahi B. K. , Krishnan R. , Sundaravel B. , Annapoorani S. , Shukla D. K. , Rajput P. , Kanjilal D.
Published: April 2017

Carbon concentration effect on the electronic and magnetic properties has been studied using X-ray absorption spectroscopy and DFT studies.
Black phosphorus nanostructures: recent advances in hybridization, doping and functionalization
Authors: Lei Wanying , Liu Gang , Zhang Jin , Liu Minghua
Published: April 2017

This tutorial review summarizes the recent advances in BP-based nanostructures by means of hybridization, doping and functionalization.
Metallocyclic Ni4Ln2M2 single-molecule magnets
Authors: Liu Mei-Jiao , Hu Kong-Qiu , Liu Cai-Ming , Cui Ai-Li , Kou Hui-Zhong
Published: April 2017

Magnetic studies on nine new octanuclear cyclic heterotrimetallic complexes reveal that in comparison with analogous octanuclear complexes [Ni4Dy2M2] (M3+ = Fe, W and Co), the [Ni4Dy2Cr2] species show the highest energy barrier and the [Ni4Tb2M2] (M = Cr or Fe) complexes display single-molecule magnetic properties.
Multimetallic complexes: synthesis and applications
Authors: Berry John F. , Thomas Christine M.
Published: April 2017

Welcome to this themed issue of Dalton Transactions entitled: ‘Multimetallic complexes: synthesis and applications’.
Fabrication of highly dispersed/active ultrafine Pd nanoparticle supported catalysts: a facile solvent-free in situ dispersion/reduction method
Authors: Shen Yu , Bo Xiangkun , Tian Zhengfang , Wang Yongzheng , Guo Xiangke , Xie Mingjiang , Gao Fei , Lin Ming , Guo Xuefeng , Ding Weiping
Published: April 2017

The development of sustainable routes for the synthesis of noble metal supported catalysts is of high importance because of their wide applications on a large scale in the catalysis field.
Synthesis of ureas in the bio-alternative solvent Cyrene
Authors: Mistry Liam , Mapesa Kopano , Bousfield Thomas W. , Camp Jason E.
Published: April 2017

The bio-alternative solvent Cyrene was shown to be an alternative to toxic oil-derived solvents for the synthesis of ureas.
Notch signaling in regulating angiogenesis in a 3D biomimetic environment
Authors: Zheng Yi , Wang Shue , Xue Xufeng , Xu Alan , Liao Wei , Deng Alice , Dai Guohao , Liu Allen P. , Fu Jianping
Published: April 2017

The role of Notch signaling in regulating angiogenesis is examined using a 3D biomimetic microfluidic device and nanobiosensors.
Design and application of ‘J-shaped’ stress–strain behavior in stretchable electronics: a review
Authors: Ma Yinji , Feng Xue , Rogers John A. , Huang Yonggang , Zhang Yihui
Published: April 2017

This review highlights five representative material/structure strategies to achieve ‘J-shaped’ stress–strain responses and introduces their applications in stretchable electronics.
Branched RCA coupled with a NESA-based fluorescence assay for ultrasensitive detection of miRNA
Authors: Xu Chenggong , Wang Xu , Li Hui , Han Cong , Wang Jingfeng , Wang Yu , Liu Su , Huang Jiadong
Published: April 2017

This work is the first report that branched-RCA coupled with NESA has been used for fluorescence assay of miRNA.
From responsible research to responsible innovation: challenges in implementation
Authors: Tait Joyce
Published: April 2017

This study proposes a new approach to the responsible development of innovative products, processes and services by companies and organisations operating in the bioeconomy and related industry sectors. It departs from much of the recent and currently available research on responsible research and innovation in that it recognises the very different challenges faced by innovating organisations, compared to conventional approaches with a strong emphasis on upstream engagement. It attempts to move away from the politicised perspectives that have dominated many engagement initiatives on disruptive innovations like synthetic/engineering biology, and to focus on practical downstream outcomes, the extent to which they will fulfil the aspirations of ordinary citizens, and will comply with prevailing industry norms of responsible behaviour. The proposed consolidated responsible innovation framework builds on the framework developed in 2012 by the then Technology Strategy Board, implemented using the anticipate, reflect, engage and act approach devised by UK research councils. It distinguishes between routine, company‐specific aspects of responsibility, expected to be addressed within an organisation's standard operating procedures, and project‐specific aspects requiring regular appraisal throughout the development of an innovation. It is designed to be simple and feasible for a company to implement within a commercial environment.
Impact of vehicle tracking on a routing problem with dynamic travel times
Authors: Respen Jean , Zufferey Nicolas , Potvin Jean-Yves
Published: April 2017

This paper evaluates the benefits of data obtained via modern information technologies, such as global positioning systems, when solving a vehicle routing problem with dynamic customer requests and dynamic travel times. It is empirically demonstrated that substantial improvements are achieved over a previously reported model which does not assume the availability of such information. We also analyze how the system handles dynamic perturbations to the travel times that lead to earliness or lateness in the planned schedule.
Microbiology of Tracheal Secretions: What to Expect with Children and Adolescents with Tracheostomies
Authors: El Cheikh Mikhael , Barbosa Juliane , Caixêta Juliana , Avelino Melissa
Published: April 2017

Introduction People with tracheostomies exhibit a higher risk of colonization of the lower respiratory tract, acute tracheitis and pneumonia. Despite this, the culture of tracheal secretions is not a routine in most hospitals, and sometimes empiric therapy is based on personal experience, which is not an ideal situation.

Objective To recognize the pathogens present in the tracheal secretions collected from people up to 18 years old with tracheostomies.

Methods Prospective evaluation of patients under the age of 18 of a tertiary care hospital. A standardized questionnaire was completed, and tracheal secretion aspirates were sent for microbiological cultures and antibiograms.

Results Twenty patients under 18 years of age were evaluated, 65% of whom were male. The microbiological culture was positive in 90% of the patients, and the most common microorganisms found were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (55.5%) and Staphylococcus aureus (27.7%).

Discussion Tracheostomized children and adolescents have respiratory tracts colonized by pathogens, the most common of which is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These patients must undergo tracheal secretion cultures, whether they present symptoms or not, to determine if there is a correlation between the colonization and the infections. This finding could guide the adequate treatment, avoiding the inappropriate use of antibiotics and indicating the better therapy in cases of laryngeal reconstruction.

Conclusion In this sample, the culture of tracheal secretions was mainly positive, and the most common agent was P. aeruginosa. We suggest the routine access to Brazilian children and adolescents tracheal secretion cultures, which could help to make a profile of these children and guide the use of antibiotics.
Normal Left Ventricular Size in Premature Newborns by the Echocardiographic Bullet Method
Authors: Bayle Kenneth , Galotti Geri , Nielsen-Farrell Jill , Yang Jie , Panesar Laurie , Nielsen James
Published: April 2017

Objective To define the normal range for a novel parameter of left ventricular (LV) size in premature neonates.

Study Design We retrospectively analyzed echocardiographic imaging data to produce percentile nomograms and tabular data for Z-score calculation for LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) in premature neonates. The utility of LVEDV was compared with the current standard for LV size in patients who were treated for a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Results The mean gestational age and weight for the normal (n = 85) and PDA (n = 19) cohorts was 33 ± 5 weeks and 1.96 ± 1.0 kg and 25 ± 2 weeks and 0.87 ± 0.3 kg, respectively. The mean LVEDV of the PDA group (97.7 ± 22.2 mL/m^2.76) was significantly larger than that of reference group (63.0 ± 11.2 mL/m^2.76), p = 0.002. The sensitivity of LVEDV was better (68 vs. 11%) compared with LV dimension (the current standard) in detecting a large LV in the PDA patients. The LVEDV for our reference cohort (63.0 ± 11.2 mL/m^2.76) was smaller than the published normals (70.4 ± 9.1 mL/m^2.76, p < 0.001) for infants.

Conclusion Echocardiographic LVEDV can now be utilized to determine the LV size in premature neonates. In patients with a PDA, an elevated LVEDV > +2 Z-scores can serve as objective data to aid in clinical trials and/or management decisions.
Prognosefaktoren der offenen Abdominalbehandlung in der Viszeralchirurgie
Authors: von Websky Martin , Jedig Agnes , Willms Arnulf , Jafari Azin , Matthaei Hanno , Kalff Jörg , Manekeller Steffen
Published: April 2017

Einführung In der Allgemeinchirurgie dient die offene Abdominalbehandlung (OAT) der Behandlung von abdominellem Kompartmentsyndrom (ACS) und Sepsis, häufig nach einer mit Komplikationen verbundenen Primäroperation. Die Ergebnisse bei diesem Kollektiv hängen möglicherweise von noch unbekannten Faktoren ab. In dieser Studie werden unabhängige patientenbezogene Prognosefaktoren nach OAT untersucht.

Methoden Es wurden 38 klinische Parameter und Überlebensdaten zu 165 konsekutiven Patienten der Allgemeinchirurgie nach OAT gemäß einem festgelegten klinischen Algorithmus in eine prospektive Datenbank eingegeben. Bewertet wurden die chirurgische Grunderkrankung, Überlebensprädiktoren und wichtige Aspekte OAT-bezogener Morbidität. Es wurden unabhängige Prädiktoren für Überleben, OAT-bezogene Morbidität und Dauer des Krankenhausaufenthalts identifiziert.

Ergebnisse OAT-Indikationen waren häufig Peritonitis, Blutungen und ACS. Das Durchschnittsalter der Patienten lag bei 60 Jahren und > 80 % gehörten der Kategorie ASA III/IV an; die Nachuntersuchung erfolgte im Durchschnitt nach 23 Monaten. In 19 % der Fälle waren onkologische Eingriffe erfolgt. Die 30-Tage-Mortalität lag bei 11 %, die 1-Jahres-Mortalität bei 34 %. Malignität war ein negativer Prädiktor (OR 4,63; 95 %-KI: 2,00–10,7), während Übergewicht/leichte Adipositas (BMI 25–35) sowie primärer Faszienverschluss, der bei 82 % der Patienten erreicht wurde, die Überlebensrate verbesserte (OR 0,2; 95 %-KI: 0,07–0,55) bzw. (OR 0,19; (95 %-KI: 0,06–0,57). Nach OAT war häufig das Auftreten einer enteroatmosphärischen Fistel (19 %, EAF) und einer ventralen Hernierung bei unmöglichem Faszienverschluss (18 %) zu verzeichnen. Malignität war ein unabhängiger Risikofaktor für EAF (OR 3,47; 95 %-KI: 1,41–8,53). Weder ein vakuumassistierter Wundverschluss noch eine Polyglactin-Netzeinlage wirkten sich auf das Auftreten der EAF aus.

Schlussfolgerung Allgemeinchirurgische Patienten nach OAT unterscheiden sich signifikant von Traumakohorten, und Mortalität sowie Langzeitmorbidität sind hoch. Der Ausgang wird wesentlich von unabhängigen patientenbezogenen Faktoren nach OAT bestimmt. Zur Verbesserung der Ergebnisse nach OAT wird eine individuell angepasste chirurgische Versorgung auf der Grundlage objektiver Nachweise benötigt.
Reactive Rather than Proactive Diabetes Management in the Perioperative Period
Authors: Hommel Inge , van Gurp Petra , den Broeder Alfons , Wollersheim Hub , Atsma Femke , Hulscher Marlies , Tack Cees
Published: April 2017

As perioperative hyperglycemia is associated with poor postoperative patient outcomes, clinical guidelines provide recommendations for optimal perioperative glucose control. It is unclear to what extent recommended glucose levels are met in daily practice, and little is known about factors that influence these levels. We describe blood glucose levels throughout the hospital care pathway in 375 non-critically ill patients with diabetes who underwent major surgery (abdominal, cardiac, or orthopedic) in 6 hospitals, examine determinants of these levels including adherence to 9 quality indicators for optimal perioperative diabetes care, and perform qualitative interviews to identify barriers for optimal care. Virtually all patients (95%) experienced at least one hyperglycemic value (>10 mmol/l); 9% had at least one value <4 mmol/l. Mean glucose increased from preoperative to postoperative day (POD) 1 (+2.3 mmol/l, 5–95% CI 1.9–2.7), and then gradually decreased on POD 2–14 (+1.8 mmol/l, 5–95% CI 1.4–2.2). Insulin-treated patients (with or without oral agents) had higher glucose levels (+1.7 mmol/l, 5–95% CI 0.5–3.0, and +1.2 mmol/l, −0.1 to −2.5) than patients using oral agents only. Indicator adherence tended to be associated with higher glucose levels. Barriers for optimal care included a lack of formalized agreements on target glucose levels, absence of directly obvious disadvantages of hyperglycemia, and concern about inducing hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia is common after major surgery, in particular on POD1 and in insulin-treated patients. Our results suggest that perioperative diabetes care is reactive rather than proactive, and that current emphasis of professionals is on treating instead of preventing postoperative hyperglycemia.
Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection among blood donors in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany – a region at intermediate risk for gastric cancer
Authors: Franck Caspar , Hoffmann Armin , Link Alexander , Schulz Christian , Wuttig Kerstin , Becker Elke , Heim Marcell , Venerito Marino , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: April 2017

Background In the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, gastric cancer (GC) incidence ranks among the highest in Germany. Helicobacter pylori prevalence is a surrogate marker for GC risk in a given population. In 2010 we reported an H. pylori seroprevalence of 44.4 % in patients at the emergency ward of the University Hospital of Magdeburg, the capital of Saxony-Anhalt. Our aim is to update these findings in a cohort of healthy blood donors from the same region.

Materials and methods The sera of 516 consecutive blood donors (40.1 ± 14.1 years; 286 males and 230 females) were tested for antibodies against H. pylori and CagA. Data on demographics and previous H. pylori eradication therapy were obtained by means of a structured questionnaire. Blood donors with positive serology for H. pylori or CagA and/or history of eradication therapy were classified as H. pylori-positive.

Results Overall, 28.9 % of the study cohort were H. pylori-positive. The prevalence was higher in older generations (9 % in 18 – 20 years up to 47 % in 61 – 70 years). In 44.4 % of H. pylori IgG-positive donors, CagA serology was also positive. This proportion was not age-dependent. Study participants with siblings were by trend more often H. pylori-positive (p = 0.066).

Conclusion Compared to our previous study in patients at the emergency ward, we found by trend lower age-related H. pylori prevalence rates. In our cohort of healthy blood donors, we confirmed a lower H. pylori prevalence in younger generations.
Three Different Ways to Skin a Cat: Financialization in the Emergence of National e-ID Solutions
Authors: Eaton Ben , Hedman Jonas , Medaglia Rony
Published: April 2017

The growing phenomenon of financialization influences an array of societal dimensions that go beyond the economic realm, to include public policy-making and information technology (IT). This study presents a cross-country analysis of the emergence of national electronic identification (e-ID) solutions as the result of interaction between the financial and the public sector in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Drawing on on-line sources, documents, and interviews with key actors in the three cases, we adopt a cross-disciplinary perspective by applying the lens of collective action theory to identify the role of interests, resources, and governance in the emergence of national e-ID solutions. Findings show that different governance solutions can emerge as the result of the convergence of interests and of interdependency of resources between the actors over time. We contribute to research on financialization and IT by proposing a dialectic process model and identifying five mechanisms that drive the process forward.
Perspective: C60+ and laboratory spectroscopy related to diffuse interstellar
bands
Authors: Campbell E. K. , Maier J. P.
Published: April 2017

In the last 30 years, our research has focused on laboratory measurements of the electronic spectra of organic radicals and ions. Many of the species investigated were selected based on their potential astrophysical relevance, particularly in connection with the identification of appealing candidate molecules for the diffuse interstellar absorptions. Notably, carbon chains and derivatives containing hydrogen and nitrogen atoms in their neutral and ionic forms were studied. These data could be obtained after developing appropriate techniques to record spectra at low temperatures relevant to the interstellar medium. The measurement of gas phase laboratory spectra has enabled direct comparisons with astronomical data to be made and though many species were found to have electronic transitions in the visible where the majority of diffuse bands are observed, none of the absorptions matched the prominent interstellar features. In 2015, however, the first carrier molecule was identified: C60+. This was achieved after the measurement of the electronic spectrum of C60+–He at 6K in a radiofrequency ion trap.
Dynamics of solid alanine by means of nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry
Authors: Kubica-Misztal A. , Rochowski P. , Florek-Wojciechowska M. , Kruk D.
Published: April 2017

1H nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry was applied to investigate the dynamics of l-alanine in the solid phase (powder). The experimental studies were carried out in a very broad frequency range, covering four orders of magnitude—from 4 kHz to 40 MHz (referring to the 1H resonance frequency) in order to probe motional processes of much different time scales by a single experiment. To get access to the dynamics of different proton groups of alanine, the 1H spin-lattice relaxation measurements were performed for non-deuterated and partially deuterated alanine. The experiments were carried out in the temperature range of 293 K-370 K (non-deuterated alanine) and 318 K-370 K (partially deuterated alanine). As a result of a thorough theoretical analysis of the extensive set of experimental results, three motional processes occurring on different time scales are identified and quantitatively described. The slowest process occurs on a time scale of μs and it is attributed to the collective dynamics of a 3D hydrogen bond network of alanine, while the intermediate, attributed to the dynamics of the NH3 group, corresponds to the range of tenths of ns. The fast process describes the rotation of the CH3 group.
Adsorption of methylene blue and its N-demethylated derivatives on the (111) face of coinage metals: The importance of dispersion interactions
Authors: Zhou Linsen , Johnson Ryan , Habteyes Terefe , Guo Hua
Published: April 2017

The adsorption of methylene blue and its N-demethylated derivatives on the (111) surface of three coinage metals is investigated using density functional theory with and without the inclusion of dispersion interactions. It is shown that the adsorption of these dye molecules on the metal surfaces can be largely classified as physisorption as the adsorption energy is dominated by dispersion interactions. While the molecules are found to adsorb on Au and Ag parallel to the surface with molecular geometries basically unaltered, the adsorption on Cu(111) features a butterfly configuration, accompanied by the largest adsorption energies among the three metal surfaces. The significant covalent character on Cu(111) is analyzed from the perspective of electronic structure.
Note: Manganin foil sensor for small uniaxial stress
Authors: Frampton M. K. , McLaughlin N. , Jin Hu , Zieve R. J.
Published: April 2017

We describe a simple manganin foil resistance manometer for uniaxial stress measurements. The manometer functions at low pressures and over a range of temperatures. In this design, no temperature seasoning is necessary although the manometer must be prestressed to the upper end of the desired pressure range. The prestress pressure cannot be increased arbitrarily; irreversibility arising from shear stress limits its range. Attempting larger pressures yields irreproducible resistance measurements.
Electrostatically driven helical plasma state
Authors: Akçay Cihan , Finn John M. , Nebel Richard A. , Barnes Daniel C.
Published: April 2017

A novel plasma state has been found in the presence of a uniformly applied axial magnetic field in periodic cylindrical geometry. This state is driven electrostatically by helical electrodes, providing a driving field that depends on the radius and mθ−nζ, where θ is the poloidal angle and ζ=z/R is the toroidal angle. We focus on m=n=1. The radial magnetic field at the wall is taken to be zero. With weak driving, the resulting distortion is very small, but for stronger driving, the mean field of the state has field line safety factor q0(r) just above the pitch of the electrodes m∕n = 1 except near the edge, where q0 increases monotonically. This state is characterized as a single helicity Ohmic equilibrium with the helical symmetry of the applied field. The plasma appears to be close to force-free in the interior, but current density crosses the magnetic flux surfaces near the edge, where current must enter and exit through the helical electrodes. This perpendicular current density drives large helical plasma flows. The sensitivity of this state to flow boundary conditions, plasma resistivity profile, the strength of electrostatic driving, and parameters such as the loop voltage and the Lundquist number is explored. The magnetic helicity is calculated for both the transient period and time-asymptotic state. Possible applications to current drive in toroidal confinement devices and to electrical transformers are discussed.
A new electron-ion coincidence 3D momentum-imaging method and its application in probing strong field dynamics of 2-phenylethyl-N, N-dimethylamine
Authors: Fan Lin , Lee Suk Kyoung , Tu Yi-Jung , Mignolet Benoît , Couch David , Dorney Kevin , Nguyen Quynh , Wooldridge Laura , Murnane Margaret , Remacle Françoise , Schlegel H. Bernhard , Li Wen
Published: April 2017

We report the development of a new three-dimensional (3D) momentum-imaging setup based on conventional velocity map imaging to achieve the coincidence measurement of photoelectrons and photo-ions. This setup uses only one imaging detector (microchannel plates (MCP)/phosphor screen) but the voltages on electrodes are pulsed to push both electrons and ions toward the same detector. The ion-electron coincidence is achieved using two cameras to capture images of ions and electrons separately. The time-of-flight of ions and electrons are read out from MCP using a digitizer. We demonstrate this new system by studying the dissociative single and double ionization of PENNA (2-phenylethyl-N,N-dimethylamine). We further show that the camera-based 3D imaging system can operate at 10 kHz repetition rate.
Assessment of range-separated functionals in the presence of implicit solvent: Computation of oxidation energy, reduction energy, and orbital energy
Authors: Boruah Abhijit , Borpuzari Manash Protim , Kawashima Yukio , Hirao Kimihiko , Kar Rahul
Published: April 2017

Recently, we have investigated the ionization potential (IP) theorem for some small molecules in the presence of external electric field [M. P. Borpuzari et al., J. Chem. Phys. 144, 164113 (2016)]. In this article, we assess the performance of some density functionals, local density approximation, generalized-gradient approximation (GGA), hybrid, meta-GGA hybrid, and range-separated functionals in the presence of two different solvent dielectrics, water and cyclohexane, in reproducing the vertical oxidation energy, reduction energy, and the frontier orbital energies. We also study the accessibility of different computational solvent models like the polarizable continuum model (PCM) and non-equilibrium PCM (NEPCM) in reproducing the desired properties. In general, the range-separated functionals do not perform well in reproducing orbital energies in the PCM. Range separation with the NEPCM is better. It is found that CAM-B3LYP, M06-2X, and ωB97XD functionals reproduce highest occupied molecular orbital energy in solvents, which may be due to the cancellation of PCM and density functional theory errors. Finally, we have tested the validity of the IP theorem in the solvent environment.
Magnetic nanoparticle detection method employing non-linear magnetoimpedance effects
Authors: Beato-López J. J. , Pérez-Landazábal J. I. , Gómez-Polo C.
Published: April 2017

In this work, a sensitive tool to detect magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) based on a non-linear Giant Magnetoimpedance (GMI) effect is presented. The GMI sensor is designed with four nearly zero magnetostrictive ribbons connected in series and was analysed as a function of a constant external magnetic field and exciting frequency. The influence of the magnetic nanoparticles deposited on the ribbon surface was characterized using the first (fundamental) and second (non-linear) harmonics of the magnetoinductive voltage. The results show a clear enhancement of the sensor response in the high magnetic field region (H = 1.5 kA/m) as a consequence of the stray field generated by the magnetic nanoparticles on the GMI ribbons' surface. The highest sensitivity ratios are obtained for the non-linear component in comparison with the fundamental response. The results open a new research strategy in magnetic nanoparticle detection.
Poroelastic metamaterials with negative effective static compressibility
Authors: Qu Jingyuan , Kadic Muamer , Wegener Martin
Published: April 2017

We suggest a three-dimensional metamaterial structure exhibiting an isotropic expansion in response to an increased hydrostatic pressure imposed by a surrounding gas or liquid. We show that this behavior corresponds to a negative absolute (rather than only differential) effective compressibility under truly static and stable conditions. The poroelastic metamaterial is composed of only a single ordinary constituent solid. By detailed numerical parameter studies, we find that a pressure increase of merely one bar can lead to a relative increase in the effective volume exceeding one percent for geometrical structure parameters that should be accessible to fabrication by 3D printing.