bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depletion of Gangliosides Enhances Articular Cartilage Repair in Mice
Authors: Matsuoka Masatake , Onodera Tomohiro , Homan Kentaro , Sasazawa Fumio , Furukawa Jun-ichi , Momma Daisuke , Baba Rikiya , Hontani Kazutoshi , Joutoku Zenta , Matsubara Shinji , Yamashita Tadashi , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: March 2017

Elucidation of the healing mechanisms in damaged tissues is a critical step for establishing breakthroughs in tissue engineering. Articular cartilage is clinically one of the most successful tissues to be repaired with regenerative medicine because of its homogeneous extracellular matrix and few cell types. However, we only poorly understand cartilage repair mechanisms, and hence, regenerated cartilage remains inferior to the native tissues. Here, we show that glycosylation is an important process for hypertrophic differentiation during articular cartilage repair. GM3, which is a precursor molecule for most gangliosides, was transiently expressed in surrounding damaged tissue, and depletion of GM3 synthase enhanced cartilage repair. Gangliosides also regulated chondrocyte hypertrophy via the Indian hedgehog pathway. These results identify a novel mechanism of cartilage healing through chondrocyte hypertrophy that is regulated by glycosylation. Manipulation of gangliosides and their synthases may have beneficial effects on articular cartilage repair.
Site-specific ADP-ribosylation of histone H2B in response to DNA double strand breaks
Authors: Rakhimova Alina , Ura Seiji , Hsu Duen-Wei , Wang Hong-Yu , Pears Catherine J. , Lakin Nicholas D.
Published: March 2017

ADP-ribosyltransferases (ARTs) modify proteins with single units or polymers of ADP-ribose to regulate DNA repair. However, the substrates for these enzymes are ill-defined. For example, although histones are modified by ARTs, the sites on these proteins ADP-ribosylated following DNA damage and the ARTs that catalyse these events are unknown. This, in part, is due to the lack of a eukaryotic model that contains ARTs, in addition to histone genes that can be manipulated to assess ADP-ribosylation events in vivo. Here we exploit the model Dictyostelium to identify site-specific histone ADP-ribosylation events in vivo and define the ARTs that mediate these modifications. Dictyostelium histones are modified in response to DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) in vivo by the ARTs Adprt1a and Adprt2. Adprt1a is a mono-ART that modifies H2BE18 in vitro, although disruption of this site allows ADP-ribosylation at H2BE19. Although redundancy between H2BE18 and H2BE19 ADP-ribosylation is also apparent following DSBs in vivo, by generating a strain with mutations at E18/E19 in the h2b locus we demonstrate these are the principal sites modified by Adprt1a/Adprt2. This identifies DNA damage induced histone mono-ADP-ribosylation sites by specific ARTs in vivo, providing a unique platform to assess how histone ADP-ribosylation regulates DNA repair.
Transfer free graphene growth on SiO2 substrate at 250 °C
Authors: Vishwakarma Riteshkumar , Rosmi Mohamad Saufi , Takahashi Kazunari , Wakamatsu Yuji , Yaakob Yazid , Araby Mona Ibrahim , Kalita Golap , Kitazawa Masashi , Tanemura Masaki
Published: March 2017

Low-temperature growth, as well as the transfer free growth on substrates, is the major concern of graphene research for its practical applications. Here we propose a simple method to achieve the transfer free graphene growth on SiO2 covered Si (SiO2/Si) substrate at 250 °C based on a solid-liquid-solid reaction. The key to this approach is the catalyst metal, which is not popular for graphene growth by chemical vapor deposition. A catalyst metal film of 500 nm thick was deposited onto an amorphous C (50 nm thick) coated SiO2/Si substrate. The sample was then annealed at 250 °C under vacuum condition. Raman spectra measured after the removal of the catalyst by chemical etching showed intense G and 2D peaks together with a small D and intense SiO2 related peaks, confirming the transfer free growth of multilayer graphene on SiO2/Si. The domain size of the graphene confirmed by optical microscope and atomic force microscope was about 5 μm in an average. Thus, this approach will open up a new route for transfer free graphene growth at low temperatures.
Gamma-Band Activities in Mouse Frontal and Visual Cortex Induced by Coherent Dot Motion
Authors: Han Hio-Been , Hwang Eunjin , Lee Soohyun , Kim Min-Shik , Choi Jee Hyun
Published: March 2017

A key question within systems neuroscience is to understand how the brain encodes spatially and temporally distributed local features and binds these together into one perceptual representation. Previous works in animal and human have shown that changes in neural synchrony occur during the perceptual processing and these changes are distinguished by the emergence of gamma-band oscillations (GBO, 30–80 Hz, centered at 40 Hz). Here, we used the mouse electroencephalogram to investigate how different cortical areas play roles in perceptual processing by assessing their GBO patterns during the visual presentation of coherently/incoherently moving random-dot kinematogram and static dots display. Our results revealed that GBO in the visual cortex were strongly modulated by the moving dots regardless of the existence of a global dot coherence, whereas GBO in frontal cortex were modulated by coherence of the motion. Moreover, concurrent GBO across the multiple cortical area occur more frequently for coherently moving dots. Taken together, these findings of GBO in the mouse frontal and visual cortex are related to the perceptual binding of local features into a globally-coherent representation, suggesting the dynamic interplay across the local/distributed networks of GBO in the global processing of optic flow.
Simultaneous removal of atrazine and copper using polyacrylic acid-functionalized magnetic ordered mesoporous carbon from water: adsorption mechanism
Authors: Zhou Yaoyu , Zhang Fengfeng , Tang Lin , Zhang Jiachao , Zeng Guangming , Luo Lin , Liu Yuanyuan , Wang Pei , Peng Bo , Liu Xiaocheng
Published: March 2017

Highly efficient simultaneous removal of atrazine and Cu(II) was accomplished using synthesized polyacrylic acid-functionalized magnetic ordered mesoporous carbon (P-MMC) as compared to magnetic ordered mesoporous carbon (MMC) and ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC). The mutual effects and interactive mechanism of their adsorption onto P-MMC were investigated systematically by binary, preloading and thermodynamic adsorption procedures. In both binary and preloading systems, the adsorption of atrazine was inhibited to some extent by the presence of Cu(II) because of selective recognition and direct competition, but the presence of atrazine had negligible effect on Cu(II) desorption. With the coexistence of humic acid (0–20 mg L−1), both atrazine and Cu(II) sorption increased slightly in sole and binary systems. With the concentration of coexisting NaCl increasing from 0 to 100 mM, the adsorption capacity for Cu(II) slightly decreased, but as for atrazine adsorption, it decreased at first, and then increased slightly in sole and binary systems. P-MMC was applied to treat real environmental samples, and the sorption capacities for atrazine and Cu(II) in real samples were all more than 91.47% and 96.43% of those in lab ultrapure water, respectively. Finally, comprehensively considering the relatively good renewability and the superior behavior in the application to real water samples, P-MMC has potential in removal of atrazine, Cu(II) and possibly other persistent organic pollutants from wastewater.
Extra-metabolic energy use and the rise in human hyper-density
Authors: Burger Joseph R. , Weinberger Vanessa P. , Marquet Pablo A.
Published: March 2017

Humans, like all organisms, are subject to fundamental biophysical laws. Van Valen predicted that, because of zero-sum dynamics, all populations of all species in a given environment flux the same amount of energy on average. Damuth’s ’energetic equivalence rule’ supported Van Valen´s conjecture by showing a tradeoff between few big animals per area with high individual metabolic rates compared to abundant small species with low energy requirements. We use metabolic scaling theory to compare variation in densities and individual energy use in human societies to other land mammals. We show that hunter-gatherers occurred at densities lower than the average for a mammal of our size. Most modern humans, in contrast, concentrate in large cities at densities up to four orders of magnitude greater than hunter-gatherers, yet consume up to two orders of magnitude more energy per capita. Today, cities across the globe flux greater energy than net primary productivity on a per area basis. This is possible by importing enormous amounts of energy and materials required to sustain hyper-dense, modern humans. The metabolic rift with nature created by modern cities fueled largely by fossil energy poses formidable challenges for establishing a sustainable relationship on a rapidly urbanizing, yet finite planet.
Competition between stacked and hydrogen bonded structures of cytosine aggregates
Authors: González Jorge , Usabiaga Imanol , Arnaiz Pedro F. , León Iker , Martínez Rodrigo , Millán Judith , Fernández José A.
Published: March 2017

The four bases of DNA constitute what is known as the “alphabet of life”.
Label-free and sensitive detection of microalgae protein using GNRs-based resonance light scattering system
Authors: Liu Shuyu , Tang Lei , Wang Jiangli , Fu Hanzhuo , Wan Xia , Li Yunbo
Published: March 2017

A novel and label-free gold nanorods (GNRs)-based resonance light scattering system assay has been developed on the basis of that the interactions between microalgae proteins and GNRs could emit strong fluorescence signal.
Physisorbed versus chemisorbed oxygen effect on thermoelectric properties of highly organized single walled carbon nanotube nanofilms
Authors: Yarali Milad , Hao Ji , Khodadadi Mohammad , Brahmi Hatem , Chen Shuo , Hadjiev Viktor G. , Jung Yung Joon , Mavrokefalos Anastassios
Published: March 2017

The effect of physisorbedvs.chemisorbed oxygen on highly organized single walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) ultrathin films is investigated by correlating the thermoelectric properties measured by a suspended micro-device to the SWCNT structure.
Leaching of fluorine and rare earths from bastnaesite calcined with aluminum hydroxide and the recovery of fluorine as cryolite
Authors: He Jingui , Li Yong , Xue Xiangxin , Ru Hongqiang , Huang Xiaowei , Yang He
Published: March 2017

Bastnaesite is decomposed with aluminium hydroxide to avoid fluorine loss and contamination, to recover fluorine as cryolite.
Catalyst displacement assay: a supramolecular approach for the design of smart latent catalysts for pollutant monitoring and removal
Authors: Chow Cheuk-Fai , Ho Pui-Yu , Wong Wing-Leung , Lu Yu-Jing , Tang Qian , Gong Cheng-Bin
Published: March 2017

A new catalyst displacement assay (CDA) can execute not only smart off–on sensing but threshold-controlled catalysis to control targeted reactions.
In vivo imaging of leucine aminopeptidase activity in drug-induced liver injury and liver cancer via a near-infrared fluorescent probe
Authors: He Xinyuan , Li Lihong , Fang Yu , Shi Wen , Li Xiaohua , Ma Huimin
Published: March 2017

The upregulation of leucine aminopeptidase in hepatopathy models is imaged in vivo for the first time with a near-infrared fluorescent probe.
Direct observation of layered-to-spinel phase transformation in Li2MnO3 and the spinel structure stabilised after the activation process
Authors: Shimoda Keiji , Oishi Masatsugu , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Murakami Miwa , Yamanaka Keisuke , Arai Hajime , Ukyo Yoshio , Uchimoto Yoshiharu , Ohta Toshiaki , Matsubara Eiichiro , Ogumi Zempachi
Published: March 2017

The layered-to-spinel phase transformation in Li2MnO3 during the initial charge process occurs by a two-phase reaction process within a single particle.
Large electroresistance and tunable photovoltaic properties of ferroelectric nanoscale capacitors based on ultrathin super-tetragonal BiFeO3films
Authors: Fan Hua , Fan Zhen , Li Peilian , Zhang Fengyuan , Tian Guo , Yao Junxiang , Li Zhongwen , Song Xiao , Chen Deyang , Han Bing , Zeng Min , Wu Sujuan , Zhang Zhang , Qin Minghui , Lu Xubing , Gao Jinwei , Lu Zengxing , Zhang Zhi , Dai Jiyan , Gao Xingsen , Liu Jun-Ming
Published: March 2017

Ferroelectric nanocapacitors with tunable resistance and photovoltaic effect have potential for multifunctional opto-electronic nanodevices.
Tracking areal lithium densities from neutron activation – quantitative Li determination in self-organized TiO2 nanotube anode materials for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Portenkirchner E. , Neri G. , Lichtinger J. , Brumbarov J. , Rüdiger C. , Gernhäuser R. , Kunze-Liebhäuser J.
Published: March 2017

Exploiting the 6Li(n,α)3H reaction for the analysis of the lithiation behavior of nanostructured electrode materials with very low Li concentrations.
Identification of sulfate species and their influence on SCR performance of Cu/CHA catalyst
Authors: Su Wenkang , Li Zhenguo , Zhang Yani , Meng Chenchen , Li Junhua
Published: March 2017

An investigation into sulfate formation on Cu/CHA zeolites was conducted to confirm the main sulfate species that deactivate the catalyst.
Stevens rearrangement of thioethers with arynes: a facile access to multi-substituted β-keto thioethers
Authors: Xu Xiao-Bo , Lin Zi-Hua , Liu Yuyin , Guo Jian , He Yun
Published: March 2017

The synthesis of multi-substituted β-keto thioethersviaStevens rearrangement of simple β-keto thioethers with arynes are reported.
Inter- and intramolecular aldol reactions promiscuously catalyzed by a proline-based tautomerase
Authors: Rahimi Mehran , Geertsema Edzard M. , Miao Yufeng , van der Meer Jan-Ytzen , van den Bosch Thea , de Haan Pim , Zandvoort Ellen , Poelarends Gerrit J.
Published: March 2017

The enzyme 4-oxalocrotonate tautomerase, which has a catalytic amino-terminal proline, was shown to promiscuously catalyze inter- and intramolecular aldol reactions.
Generation of benzosultams via a radical process with the insertion of sulfur dioxide
Authors: Zhou Kaida , Xia Hongguang , Wu Jie
Published: March 2017

A three-component reaction of 2-ethynylbenzenesulfonamides, DABCO-bis(sulfur dioxide), and aryldiazonium tetrafluoroborates affords sulfonated benzosultams in moderate to good yields. This reaction proceeds through a tandem radical process. DABCO acts as a carrier for single electron transfer, as well as a base to promote the C–N bond formation.
Distribution of oxygen functional groups of graphene oxide obtained from low-temperature atomic layer deposition of titanium oxide
Authors: Shin Dong Seok , Kim Hyun Gu , Ahn Ho Seon , Jeong Hu Young , Kim Youn-Jung , Odkhuu Dorj , Tsogbadrakh N. , Lee Han-Bo-Ram , Kim Byung Hoon
Published: March 2017

The island-like distribution of the oxygen functional groups of graphene oxide was identified by deposition of TiO2 on the graphene oxide surface using low-temperature atomic layer deposition.
On-surface manipulation of atom substitution between cobalt phthalocyanine and the Cu(111) substrate
Authors: Shen Kongchao , Narsu Bai , Ji Gengwu , Sun Haoliang , Hu Jinbang , Liang Zhaofeng , Gao Xingyu , Li Haiyang , Li Zheshen , Song Bo , Jiang Zheng , Huang Han , Wells Justin W. , Song Fei
Published: March 2017

An on-surface atom substation has been manipulated by thermal annealing which transmetalizes CoPc to CuPc for various applications.
Tailoring of enhanced interfacial polarization in WO3 nanorods grown over reduced graphene oxide synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method
Authors: Ahmed Bilal , Ojha Animesh K. , Hirsch Florian , Fischer Ingo , Patrice Donfack , Materny Arnulf
Published: March 2017

In the present report, well-defined WO3 nanorods (NRs) and a rGO–WO3 composite were successfully synthesized using a one-pot hydrothermal method.
Synthesis of Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets from layered yttrium hydroxide precursor and their photoluminescence properties
Authors: Watanabe Tomotaka , Iso Yoshiki , Isobe Tetsuhiko
Published: March 2017

Morphologies, photoluminescence properties, and photostability were characterized for Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ fluorescent nanosheets prepared through calcining solvothermally synthesized layered yttrium hydroxide precursors.
Field emission properties of Al-doped ZnO nanosheet based on field emitter device with UV exposure
Authors: Young Sheng-Joue , Liu Yi-Hsing
Published: March 2017

In this study, aluminum (Al)-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanosheets were synthesized on a ZnO/glass substrate under different growth temperatures using a modified aqueous solution method.
Controllable synthesis of highly uniform flower-like hierarchical carbon nanospheres and their application in high performance lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Guo Daying , Chen Xi'an , Wei Huifang , Liu Menglan , Ding Feng , Yang Zhi , Yang Keqin , Wang Shun , Xu Xiangju , Huang Shaoming
Published: March 2017

Highly uniform flower-like carbon nanospheres/sulfur cathode for Li–S battery delivers excellent performance.
Synergistic effects of citrulline supplementation and exercise on performance in male rats: evidence for implication of protein and energy metabolisms
Authors: Goron Arthur , Lamarche Frédéric , Cunin Valérie , Dubouchaud Hervé , Hourdé Christophe , Noirez Philippe , Corne Christelle , Couturier Karine , Sève Michel , Fontaine Eric , Moinard Christophe
Published: March 2017

Background: Exercise and citrulline (CIT) are both regulators of muscle protein metabolism. However, the combination of both has been under-studied yet may have synergistic effects on muscle metabolism and performance.

Methods: Three-month-old healthy male rats were randomly assigned to be fed ad libitum for 4 weeks with either a citrulline-enriched diet (1 g·kg−1·day−1) (CIT) or an isonitrogenous standard diet (by addition of nonessential amino acid) (Ctrl) and trained (running on treadmill 5 days·week−1) (ex) or not. Maximal endurance activity and body composition were assessed, and muscle protein metabolism (protein synthesis, proteomic approach) and energy metabolism [energy expenditure, mitochondrial metabolism] were explored.

Results: Body composition was affected by exercise but not by CIT supplementation. Endurance training was associated with a higher maximal endurance capacity than sedentary groups (P<0.001), and running time was 14% higher in the CITex group than the Ctrlex group (139±4 min versus 122±6 min, P<0.05). Both endurance training and CIT supplementation alone increased muscle protein synthesis (by +27% and +33%, respectively, versus Ctrl, P<0.05) with an additive effect (+48% versus Ctrl, P<0.05). Mitochondrial metabolism was modulated by exercise but not directly by CIT supplementation. However, the proteomic approach demonstrated that CIT supplementation was able to affect energy metabolism, probably due to activation of pathways generating acetyl-CoA.

Conclusion: CIT supplementation and endurance training in healthy male rats modulates both muscle protein and energy metabolisms, with synergic effects on an array of parameters, including performance and protein synthesis.
The Effects of Service-Delivery Model and Purchase Price on Hearing-Aid Outcomes in Older Adults: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Humes Larry E. , Rogers Sara E. , Quigley Tera M. , Main Anna K. , Kinney Dana L. , Herring Christine
Published: March 2017

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to determine efficacy of hearing aids in older adults using audiology best practices, to evaluate the efficacy of an alternative over-the-counter (OTC) intervention, and to examine the influence of purchase price on outcomes for both service-delivery models.

Design

The design of this study was a single-site, prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial with three parallel branches: (a) audiology best practices (AB), (b) consumer decides OTC model (CD), and (c) placebo devices (P). Outcome measures were obtained after a typical 6-week trial period with follow-up 4-week AB-based trial for those initially assigned to CD and P groups.

Setting

Older adults from the general community were recruited via newspaper and community flyers to participate at a university research clinic.

Participants

Participants were adults, ages 55–79 years, with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. There were 188 eligible participants: 163 enrolled as a volunteer sample, and 154 completed the intervention.

Intervention(s)

All participants received the same high-end digital mini-behind-the-ear hearing aids fitted bilaterally. AB and P groups received best-practice services from audiologists; differing mainly in use of appropriate (AB) or placebo (P) hearing aid settings. CD participants self-selected their own pre-programmed hearing aids via an OTC model.

Primary and Secondary Outcome Measures

Primary outcome measure was a 66-item self-report, Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (Cox & Gilmore, 1990). Secondary outcome measure was the Connected Speech Test (Cox, Alexander, & Gilmore, 1987) benefit. Additional measures of hearing-aid benefit, satisfaction, and usage were also obtained.

Results

Per-protocol analyses were performed. AB service-delivery model was found to be efficacious for most of the outcome measures, with moderate or large effect sizes (Cohen's
d
). CD service-delivery model was efficacious, with similar effect sizes. However, CD group had a significantly (
p
< .05) lower satisfaction and percentage (CD: 55%; AB: 81%; P: 36%) likely to purchase hearing aids after the trial.

Conclusions

Hearing aids are efficacious in older adults for both AB and CD service-delivery models. CD model of OTC service delivery yielded only slightly poorer outcomes than the AB model. Efficacious OTC models may increase accessibility and affordability of hearing aids for millions of older adults. Purchase price had no effect on outcomes, but a high percentage of those who rejected hearing aids paid the typical price (85%).

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01788432;
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01788423

Supplemental Materials

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.5382499
Impact of Early Decompressive Craniectomy Following Blunt Traumatic Brain Injury on Mortality: Propensity Matched Analysis
Authors: Ahmed Nasim
Published: March 2017

Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the early craniectomy on mortality.

Hypothesis Early craniectomy within 4 hours of hospital arrival will reduce in-hospital mortality.

Methods Data were retrieved from the National Trauma Data Bank data set (RDS_2007-RDS_2010). All craniectomies performed on patients with a blunt mechanism of head injury within 24 hours of admission were included in the study. In-hospital mortality was the main outcome of interest.

Results A total of 942 patients qualified for the study. Overall, 669 patients (71%) underwent a craniectomy within 4 hours (early group), and 273 patients (29%) had a craniectomy performed between > 4 hours to 24 hours following hospital arrival (late group). Propensity matched analysis identified 268 pairs of patients in both groups. The mean standardized differences were < 10% after matching. There were no significant differences in mortality (odds ratio: 1.018; confidence interval [CI], 0.689–1.506; p = 1.00), absolute risk reduction (0.004; 95% CI, − 0.078 to 0.085; p = 1.00), and length of stay (LOS) between the groups (hazard ratio: 0.770; 95% CI, 0.56–1.059; p = 0.108).

Conclusion No differences were seen on in-hospital mortality and hospital LOS between patients operated within 4 hours versus patients operated between 4 and 24 hours of admission.
Revision of Total Knee Arthroplasties Performed in Young, Active Patients with Posttraumatic Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Long William , Scott W. , Old Andrew
Published: March 2017

Rates of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in younger patients are rising significantly. A recent study performed at our institute illustrated the excellent survivorship of TKAs in patients younger than 55 years at a mean follow-up period of 25 years. This study reports on the 25 knees in this series that required revision surgery. Twenty-five revisions were performed in 24 patients. Indication for revision, clinical outcomes, and radiographs were reviewed at their most recent follow-up. Revisions were performed in 5 cases of infection, 2 cases of fracture/trauma, 17 cases of wear/loosening, and 1 case of instability. The average duration from primary TKA to revision surgery for the 25 knees was 12.5 years (range, 2–26 years). Follow-up was obtained in 24 of 25 TKAs. Nine of the 24 patients (10 knees) had died at the time of follow-up. The average duration from revision surgery to follow-up examination for the remaining knees was 10.5 years. Using the Knee Society scoring system, the average knee score was 89.0 points and the average functional score was 75.6 points. The mean Tegner activity score was 4.6 which exceeded the mean score for unrevised TKAs (2.9). The average range of motion was 119 degrees. None of the knee radiographs showed evidence of component loosening. Young patients who undergo TKA that require revision surgery had good mid-term clinical outcomes. This information is important in completing the clinical picture and outcomes associated with young patients undergoing TKA.
Long-Term Outcome of Microendoscopic Diskectomy for Lumbar Disk Herniation. A Clinical Study of Consecutive 112 Cases with More than 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Iesato Noriyuki , Terashima Yoshinori , Tanimoto Katsumasa , Takebayashi Tsuneo , Yamashita Toshihiko , Yoshimoto Mitsunori
Published: March 2017

Background Clinical results and recurrence rate after microendoscopic diskectomy (MED) with long-term follow-up is still unclear, in spite of its relatively long history.

Materials and Methods A total of 112 who underwent MED participated in this study. Operative time, blood loss, serum C-reactive protein (CRP), creatine kinase (CK), and visual analog scale (VAS) were evaluated as indexes of surgical invasiveness. The 36-Item Short Form Survey Instrument (SF-36), Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, patient satisfaction, and recurrence were also evaluated with a follow-up of at least 5 years.

Results The mean operative time was 86.7 minutes, and the mean blood loss was 35.7 mL. The mean CRP on postoperative day 3 and CK on the first postoperative day was 0.72 mg/dL and 224.6 IU/L, respectively, and VAS to assess surgical site pain on the first postoperative day was 24.9 mm on average. The improvement rate in the JOA score was 68.7%. The physical component summary of SF-36 in norm-based scoring was improved from 23.4 to 48.6. Overall, 90.8% of patients evaluated their response to the surgery as extremely satisfied or satisfied. The recurrence rate was 10.5%, and reoperation was performed in 7.9% of patients.

Conclusions MED is a technique that offers both reduced invasiveness and good long-term clinical results.
The History of Azulenyl Squaraines
Authors: Lynch Daniel E. , Hamilton Darren G.
Published: March 2017

The synthesis of the first azulenyl squaraine dye was reported in 1966 and the paucity of activity in the scientific literature since that time has given the false impression that they have remained relatively unexplored as organic dyes. In contrast, a wealth of research activity on azulenyl squaraines has been recorded in the patent literature and it is the purpose of this review to bring these reports to the attention of scientists that have an interest in the chemistry and applications of squaraine dyes. This review shows that it is possible to prepare, via targeted substitution of the azulene ring, a dye with an absorption maximum value ranging from 650 to 840 nm.
Land use, soil properties and weather conditions influence nutrient fluxes into a deep oligotrophic lake
Authors: Weaver Amy K. , Schallenberg Marc , Burns Carolyn W.
Published: March 2017

Many streams and rivers in upland watersheds in southern New Zealand drain into deep, oligotrophic lakes with major aesthetic, recreational and conservation values. We examined the effects of increasing pasture cover and weather-related variables on nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations in eight streams draining into Lake Wanaka and hypothesised that (1) DOC and N concentrations would increase with increasing land development, but soil characteristics in the watershed would mediate P input and (2) weather-related factors that increase hydrological connectivity in the landscape would enhance the influx of N and DOC. Agricultural development correlated positively with N and DOC concentrations in stream water, but temperature and soil moisture mitigated the influence of pasture cover on surface-water DOC concentration under very dry or very wet conditions. Weather-related factors did not influence N concentrations in streams. Neither land use nor weather-related conditions correlated with concentrations of dissolved P, possibly reflecting good P-binding in soils and lack of sampling during high-flow events. Our results provided evidence that agricultural development in grassland watersheds increases the concentrations of N and DOC entering Lake Wanaka, and weather and soil conditions mediate the amount of DOC transferred from soils into streams.
Temporal variations in activity patterns during rut – implications for survey techniques of red deer, Cervus elaphus
Authors: Jarnemo Anders , Jansson Gunnar , Månsson Johan
Published: March 2017

Context Intraspecific differences in behaviour can affect censuses and bias population estimates, suggesting that choice and implementation of census methods are fundamental, and need to be adapted to behavioural variations. Aims We investigated temporal variations in activity patterns during the rut among red deer (Cervus elaphus) categories and the implications for two different census methods. Methods We used a long-term dataset collected during 17 consecutive red deer rutting seasons in southernmost Sweden. The two census methods were: (1) a collection of observation ratios; and (2) a count of individuals including identification of males. Both methods are commonly used in ungulate management. Key results There was a difference in activity among age and sex categories, with a temporal variation in activity and/or presence at rutting grounds of adult (≥6 years) and subadult (2–5 years) males. Observation ratios of adult and subadult males increased from low at the start of the rut to a top level during peak rut, with subadults lagging behind adults. Before and during peak rut, the proportion of adult males was higher than that of subadults. After peak rut, the proportion of adult males decreased, whereas subadult males remained high, resulting in a higher number of subadults than of adults. The comparison of the two census methods revealed a strong correlation regarding the trends of population size and for the age and sex categories. There was also a strong consistency concerning the calf/female ratio. The male proportion was, however, consistently lower in the collected observations than in the counts. Conclusions The lower proportion of males in observations compared with counts may be explained by behavioural differences among male age classes, i.e. by temporal variations in presence and activity. That females, calves and yearling males are stationary during the rut, but adult and subadult males arrive and depart the rutting grounds at varying points of time, can lead to an underestimated male proportion in continuously collected observation data. Implications The results suggest that census should be conducted during peak rut, and that incorporating identification of individual males in the monitoring may be beneficiary.
The MICOS component Mic60 displays a conserved membrane-bending activity that is necessary for normal cristae morphology
Authors: Tarasenko Daryna , Barbot Mariam , Jans Daniel C. , Kroppen Benjamin , Sadowski Boguslawa , Heim Gudrun , Möbius Wiebke , Jakobs Stefan , Meinecke Michael
Published: March 2017

The inner membrane (IM) of mitochondria displays an intricate, highly folded architecture and can be divided into two domains: the inner boundary membrane adjacent to the outer membrane and invaginations toward the matrix, called cristae. Both domains are connected by narrow, tubular membrane segments called cristae junctions (CJs). The formation and maintenance of CJs is of vital importance for the organization of the mitochondrial IM and for mitochondrial and cellular physiology. The multisubunit mitochondrial contact site and cristae organizing system (MICOS) was found to be a major factor in CJ formation. In this study, we show that the MICOS core component Mic60 actively bends membranes and, when inserted into prokaryotic membranes, induces the formation of cristae-like plasma membrane invaginations. The intermembrane space domain of Mic60 has a lipid-binding capacity and induces membrane curvature even in the absence of the transmembrane helix. Mic60 homologues from α-proteobacteria display the same membrane deforming activity and are able to partially overcome the deletion of Mic60 in eukaryotic cells. Our results show that membrane bending by Mic60 is an ancient mechanism, important for cristae formation, and had already evolved before α-proteobacteria developed into mitochondria.
Telomere-driven diseases and telomere-targeting therapies
Authors: Martínez Paula , Blasco Maria A.
Published: March 2017

Telomeres, the protective ends of linear chromosomes, shorten throughout an individual’s lifetime. Telomere shortening is proposed to be a primary molecular cause of aging. Short telomeres block the proliferative capacity of stem cells, affecting their potential to regenerate tissues, and trigger the development of age-associated diseases. Mutations in telomere maintenance genes are associated with pathologies referred to as telomere syndromes, including Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome, dyskeratosis congenita, pulmonary fibrosis, aplastic anemia, and liver fibrosis. Telomere shortening induces chromosomal instability that, in the absence of functional tumor suppressor genes, can contribute to tumorigenesis. In addition, mutations in telomere length maintenance genes and in shelterin components, the protein complex that protects telomeres, have been found to be associated with different types of cancer. These observations have encouraged the development of therapeutic strategies to treat and prevent telomere-associated diseases, namely aging-related diseases, including cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying telomere-driven diseases and highlight recent advances in the preclinical development of telomere-targeted therapies using mouse models.
Regional comparison of absolute gravimeters, EURAMET.M.G-K2 key comparison
Authors: Pálinkáš V , Francis O , Val'ko M , Kostelecký J , Camp M Van , Castelein S , Bilker-Koivula M , Näränen J , Lothhammer A , Falk R , Schilling M , Timmen L , Iacovone D , Baccaro F , Germak A , Biolcati E , Origlia C , Greco F , Pistorio A , Plaen R De , Klein G , Seil M , Radinovic R , Reudink R , Dykowski P , Sȩkowski M , Próchniewicz D , Szpunar R , Mojzeš M , JanÃ¡k J , Papčo J , Engfeldt A , Olsson P A , Smith V , Westrum D van , Ellis B , Lucero B
Published: March 2017

In the framework of the regional EURAMET.M.G-K2 comparison of absolute gravimeters, 17 gravimeters were compared in November 2015. Four gravimeters were from different NMIs and DIs, they were used to link the regional comparison to the CCM.G.K2 by means of linking converter. Combined least-squares adjustments with weighted constraint was used to determine KCRV. Several pilot solutions are presented and compared with the official solution to demonstrate influences of different approaches (e.g. definition of weights and the constraint) on results of the adjustment. In case of the official solution, all the gravimeters are in equivalence with declared uncertainties.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Early stages of functional diversification in the Rab GTPase gene family revealed by genomic and localization studies inParameciumspecies
Authors: Bright Lydia J. , Gout Jean-Francois , Lynch Michael
Published: March 2017

New gene functions arise within existing gene families as a result of gene duplication and subsequent diversification. To gain insight into the steps that led to the functional diversification of paralogues, we tracked duplicate retention patterns, expression-level divergence, and subcellular markers of functional diversification in the Rab GTPase gene family in three Paramecium aurelia species. After whole-genome duplication, Rab GTPase duplicates are more highly retained than other genes in the genome but appear to be diverging more rapidly in expression levels, consistent with early steps in functional diversification. However, by localizing specific Rab proteins in Paramecium cells, we found that paralogues from the two most recent whole-genome duplications had virtually identical localization patterns, and that less closely related paralogues showed evidence of both conservation and diversification. The functionally conserved paralogues appear to target to compartments associated with both endocytic and phagocytic recycling functions, confirming evolutionary and functional links between the two pathways in a divergent eukaryotic lineage. Because the functionally diversifying paralogues are still closely related to and derived from a clade of functionally conserved Rab11 genes, we were able to pinpoint three specific amino acid residues that may be driving the change in the localization and thus the function in these proteins.
Differential role of nonmuscle myosin II isoforms during blebbing of MCF-7 cells
Authors: Dey Sumit K. , Singh Raman K. , Chattoraj Shyamtanu , Saha Shekhar , Das Alakesh , Bhattacharyya Kankan , Sengupta Kaushik , Sen Shamik , Jana Siddhartha S.
Published: March 2017

Bleb formation has been correlated with nonmuscle myosin II (NM-II) activity. Whether three isoforms of NM-II (NM-IIA, -IIB and -IIC) have the same or differential roles in bleb formation is not well understood. Here we report that ectopically expressed, GFP-tagged NM-II isoforms exhibit different types of membrane protrusions, such as multiple blebs, lamellipodia, combinations of both, or absence of any such protrusions in MCF-7 cells. Quantification suggests that 50% of NM-IIA-GFP–, 29% of NM-IIB-GFP–, and 19% of NM-IIC1-GFP–expressing MCF-7 cells show multiple bleb formation, compared with 36% of cells expressing GFP alone. Of interest, NM-IIB has an almost 50% lower rate of dissociation from actin filament than NM-IIA and –IIC1 as determined by FRET analysis both at cell and bleb cortices. We induced bleb formation by disruption of the cortex and found that all three NM-II-GFP isoforms can reappear and form filaments but to different degrees in the growing bleb. NM-IIB-GFP can form filaments in blebs in 41% of NM-IIB-GFP–expressing cells, whereas filaments form in only 12 and 3% of cells expressing NM-IIA-GFP and NM-IIC1-GFP, respectively. These studies suggest that NM-II isoforms have differential roles in the bleb life cycle.
Binding of ZO-1 to α5β1 integrins regulates the mechanical properties of α5β1–fibronectin links
Authors: González-Tarragó Víctor , Elosegui-Artola Alberto , Bazellières Elsa , Oria Roger , Pérez-González Carlos , Roca-Cusachs Pere
Published: March 2017

Fundamental processes in cell adhesion, motility, and rigidity adaptation are regulated by integrin-mediated adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM). The link between the ECM component fibronectin (fn) and integrin α5β1 forms a complex with ZO-1 in cells at the edge of migrating monolayers, regulating cell migration. However, how this complex affects the α5β1-fn link is unknown. Here we show that the α5β1/ZO-1 complex decreases the resistance to force of α5β1–fn adhesions located at the edge of migrating cell monolayers while also increasing α5β1 recruitment. Consistently with a molecular clutch model of adhesion, this effect of ZO-1 leads to a decrease in the density and intensity of adhesions in cells at the edge of migrating monolayers. Taken together, our results unveil a new mode of integrin regulation through modification of the mechanical properties of integrin–ECM links, which may be harnessed by cells to control adhesion and migration.
Physical Activity Is Associated With Reduced Left Ventricular Mass in Obese and Hypertensive African Americans
Authors: Kamimura Daisuke , Loprinzi Paul D. , Wang Wanmei , Suzuki Takeki , Butler Kenneth R. , Mosley Thomas H. , Hall Michael E.
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) has been associated with decreased left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy in previous studies. However, little is known about the relationship between PA and LV structure and factors which influence this relationship among African Americans.

METHODS

We evaluated 1,300 African Americans with preserved LV ejection fraction (EF > 50%) from the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) Study (mean age 62.4 years, 73% women). PA index was calculated as 3 * heavy activity hours + 2 * moderate activity hours + slight activity hours/day. The relationship between PA index and LV structure was evaluated using generalized estimating equation. The association between PA index and LV mass index by age group, sex, body mass index (BMI), history of hypertension, diabetes or coronary heart disease, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and current smoking status were plotted.

RESULTS

After adjustment for these factors, higher PA index was independently associated with lower LV mass index (P < 0.05). There were significant interactions between PA index and obesity (BMI ≥ 30) and history of hypertension on LV mass index (P for interaction <0.05, for both). Higher PA index was associated with lower LV mass index more in obese or hypertensive participants compared with nonobese or nonhypertensive participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher PA index was associated with reduced LV hypertrophy in obese and hypertensive African Americans. Prospective studies aimed at assessing whether increasing PA prevents LV hypertrophy and potentially reduces the risk of heart failure in these at risk groups are warranted.
A new unified approach to determine geocentre motion using space geodetic and GRACE gravity data
Authors: Wu Xiaoping , Kusche Jürgen , Landerer Felix W.
Published: March 2017

Geocentre motion between the centre-of-mass of the Earth system and the centre-of-figure of the solid Earth surface is a critical signature of degree-1 components of global surface mass transport process that includes sea level rise, ice mass imbalance and continental-scale hydrological change. To complement GRACE data for complete-spectrum mass transport monitoring, geocentre motion needs to be measured accurately. However, current methods of geodetic translational approach and global inversions of various combinations of geodetic deformation, simulated ocean bottom pressure and GRACE data contain substantial biases and systematic errors. Here, we demonstrate a new and more reliable unified approach to geocentre motion determination using a recently formed satellite laser ranging based geocentric displacement time-series of an expanded geodetic network of all four space geodetic techniques and GRACE gravity data. The unified approach exploits both translational and deformational signatures of the displacement data, while the addition of GRACE's near global coverage significantly reduces biases found in the translational approach and spectral aliasing errors in the inversion.
Effect of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Administration and Mild Hypothermia Induction on Delayed Neuronal Death After Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Chung Tae Nyoung , Kim Jin Hee , Choi Bo Young , Jeong Ju-Yeon , Chung Sung Phil , Kwon Sung Won , Suh Sang Won
Published: March 2017

Objectives:

Global cerebral ischemia is a cause of poor prognosis after resuscitation from cardiac arrest. Various attempts have been made to minimize global cerebral ischemia but none been more effective than mild hypothermia induction. A few studies have shown the effect of mesenchymal stem cells on global cerebral ischemia, but no studies have compared this effect with mild hypothermia or assessed any possible interaction. We aimed to show the effect of mesenchymal stem cells on delayed neuronal death after global cerebral ischemia and to compare this effect with mild hypothermia.

Design:

Experimental study.

Setting:

Animal research laboratory.

Subjects:

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 250–300 g.

Interventions:

Rats were subjected to 7 minutes of transient global cerebral ischemia and randomized into four groups: control, mild hypothermia, injection of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and combined application of mild hypothermia and mesenchymal stem cells, along with four sham groups treated identically. Rats were euthanized 7 days after global cerebral ischemia.

Measurements and Main Results:

Degree of neuronal death in hippocampus was significantly higher in control than in other groups. The number of activated microglia was higher in control group than in other groups and was higher in mild hypothermia than shams, mesenchymal stem cells, mild hypothermia/mesenchymal stem cells. Degree of blood-brain barrier disruption and the count of infiltrated neutrophils were significantly higher in control than in other groups. Degree of oxidative injury was significantly higher in control than other groups. It was higher in mild hypothermia than sham groups, mesenchymal stem cells, mild hypothermia/mesenchymal stem cells and was higher in mesenchymal stem cells group than sham groups. Significantly, worse functional results were found in control than in other groups.

Conclusions:

Administration of mesenchymal stem cells after transient global cerebral ischemia has a prominent protective effect on delayed neuron death, even compared with mild hypothermia.