bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cystatin C Based Equation Accurately Estimates Glomerular Filtration Rate in Children With Solid and Central Nervous System Tumours: Enough Evidence to Change Practice?
Authors: Dodgshun Andrew J. , Quinlan Catherine , Sullivan Michael J.
Published: May 2016

Background

Assessing the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of paediatric patients receiving nephrotoxic chemotherapy is a vital element of clinical practice. Isotopically measured GFR is the gold standard in terms of accuracy but requires injection of tracer followed by several hours of blood tests. Estimation of GFR using creatinine is widely used but inaccurate, and there is increasing concern regarding its usage for paediatric oncology patients. Cystatin C (CysC) based equations are increasingly used in other paediatric specialities to estimate GFR, and their usefulness in paediatric oncology practice is becoming evident.

Methods

We assessed the renal function of children with solid tumours and CNS tumours receiving nephrotoxic chemotherapy over a 1‐year period using paired CysC and isotopic GFR.

Results

Fifty‐six sets of measurements were reviewed with estimated GFR predicted using CysC‐based and creatinine‐based equations. The best performing equation was the ‘new CKiD’ equation, which estimated GFR within 30% of the measured GFR on 86% of occasions, outperforming the Schwartz equation. If estimated GFR using this equation was >100 ml/min/1.73 m2, all values of measured GFR were normal at >90 ml/min/1.73 m2, a category containing two‐thirds of all measurements.

Conclusions

The new CKiD equation predicts GFR in paediatric oncology patients with more accuracy than creatinine‐based equations. When the estimated GFR is >100 ml/min/1.73 m2, isotopic GFR can be safely omitted.
Effect of microwave absorption study on polyaniline nanocomposites with untreated and treated double wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Koh Yen‐Nee , Mokhtar Nurrafiqah , Phang Sook‐Wai
Published: May 2016

Hexanoic acid (HA) doped polyaniline (PAni) nanocomposites which consist of different contents of untreated double wall carbon nanotubes (u‐DWNT) and carboxyl treated DWNT (c‐DWNT) with titanium dioxide nanoparticles were successfully prepared using template‐free method. Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet‐visible and X‐ray diffractometer spectra clearly confirmed the chemical structure of PAni nanocomposites. Thermal stability, morphology, conductivity, magnetic properties and reflection loss of PAni nanocomposites were characterized by thermogravimetric analyzer, field emission scanning electron microscope, four‐point probe, vibrating sample magnetometer and microwave vector network analyzer, respectively. From this study, it is shown that electrical conductivity of PAni nanocomposites with u‐DWNT possessed higher conductivity (1.23 × 10–1 to 1.31 × 100 S/cm) compared to c‐DWNT (3.43 × 10–2 to 4.48 × 10–1S/cm). PAni/HA/TiO2/DWNT nanocomposites with 20% of c‐DWNT have been covered by PAni layers to form the highest amount of nanorods/nanotubes. Hence, it shows high heterogeneity that will enhance the dielectric permittivity and contribute to a more disordered motion of charge carriers along the PAni backbone. Therefore, it will eventually contribute to good microwave absorption and potentially apply as an efficient electromagnetic interference shielding material in cell phones. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1283–1291, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Electrochemical nature of contact firing reactions for screen‐printed silicon solar cells: origin of “gray finger” phenomenon
Authors: Kim Hee‐Soo , Cho Sung‐Bin , Kim Heesan , Kim Donghwan , Dovrat Miki , Eytan Guy , Huh Joo‐Youl
Published: May 2016

Fire‐through Ag thick‐film metallization of crystalline Si (c‐Si) solar cells often yields macroscopically non‐uniform contact quality over the cell area, degrading the cell performance and causing cell‐to‐cell variations of the conversion efficiency in a cell production line. This study analyzes the root cause of the “gray finger” phenomenon, in which part of the fire‐through Ag contact gridlines of a c‐Si solar cell appears in gray or dark contrast in the electroluminescence images owing to high contact resistance. Few Ag crystallites were formed on the corrugated emitter surface at the contact interfaces underneath the gray fingers. The present results revealed that the gray finger phenomenon was caused by a short‐circuit spot that formed between the Ag gridlines and underlying Si emitter during contact firing. The electrochemical reactions involved in fire‐through Ag contact formation established a potential difference between the sintered Ag gridlines and Si emitter separated by molten glass. The molten glass acted as an electrolyte containing mobile Ag+ and O2− ions during contact firing. Therefore, the short‐circuiting between the sintered Ag gridlines and Si emitter produced a galvanic cell during contact firing, which inhibited Ag crystallite formation at the contact interface along the gridlines in a short circuit and produced the gray fingers. The firing reactions in Ag thick‐film contact formation could be interpreted in terms of the mixed potential theory of corrosion. The degradation of cell performance because of the gray finger phenomenon was also evaluated for 6‐in. screen‐printed c‐Si solar cells. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In planta chemical cross‐linking and mass spectrometry analysis of protein structure and interaction in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhu Xinliang , Yu Fengchao , Yang Zhu , Liu Shichang , Dai Chen , Lu Xiaoyun , Liu Chenyu , Yu Weichuan , Li Ning
Published: May 2016

Site‐specific chemical cross‐linking in combination with mass spectrometry analysis has emerged as a powerful proteomic approach for studying the three‐dimensional structure of protein complexes and in mapping protein–protein interactions (PPIs). Building on the success of MS analysis of in vitro cross‐linked proteins, which has been widely used to investigate specific interactions of bait proteins and their targets in various organisms, we report a workflow for in vivo chemical cross‐linking and MS analysis in a multicellular eukaryote. This approach optimizes the in vivo protein cross‐linking conditions in Arabidopsis thaliana, establishes a MudPIT procedure for the enrichment of cross‐linked peptides, and develops an integrated software program, exhaustive cross‐linked peptides identification tool (ECL), to identify the MS spectra of in planta chemical cross‐linked peptides. In total, two pairs of in vivo cross‐linked peptides of high confidence have been identified from two independent biological replicates. This work demarks the beginning of an alternative proteomic approach in the study of in vivo protein tertiary structure and PPIs in multicellular eukaryotes.
Sugar concentration in nectar: a quantitative metric of crop attractiveness for refined pollinator risk assessments
Authors: Knopper Loren D , Dan Tereza , Reisig Dominic D , Johnson Josephine D , Bowers Lisa M
Published: May 2016

Those involved with pollinator risk assessment know that agricultural crops vary in attractiveness to bees. Intuitively, this means that exposure to agricultural pesticides is likely greatest for attractive plants and lowest for unattractive plants. While crop attractiveness in the risk assessment process has been qualitatively remarked on by some authorities, absent is direction on how to refine the process with quantitative metrics of attractiveness. At a high level, attractiveness of crops to bees appears to depend on several key variables, including but not limited to: floral, olfactory, visual and tactile cues; seasonal availability; physical and behavioral characteristics of the bee; plant and nectar rewards. Notwithstanding the complexities and interactions among these variables, sugar content in nectar stands out as a suitable quantitative metric by which to refine pollinator risk assessments for attractiveness. Provided herein is a proposed way to use sugar nectar concentration to adjust the exposure parameter (with what is called a crop attractiveness factor) in the calculation of risk quotients in order to derive crop‐specific tier I assessments. This Perspective is meant to invite discussion on incorporating such changes in the risk assessment process. © 2016 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Semi‐geostrophic time evolution of velocity gradient tensor invariants
Authors: Roulstone I. , White A. A.
Published: May 2016

The behaviour of quadratic invariants of the velocity gradient tensor is explored when the time evolution is governed by semi‐geostrophic forms of the shallow‐water equations. The evolution equation of a certain Jacobian involving the geostrophic flow is formally similar to its counterpart under the primitive shallow‐water equations. The resultant deformation and the Frobenius norm do not behave in this symmetrical way. A product of the study is a straightforward derivation of the semi‐geostrophic potential vorticity conservation property. Results are extended to 3D baroclinic flow by using isentropic coordinates.
Lights, camera, action! Capturing the spliceosome and pre‐mRNA splicing with single‐molecule fluorescence microscopy
Authors: DeHaven Alexander C. , Norden Ian S. , Hoskins Aaron A.
Published: May 2016

The process of removing intronic sequences from a precursor to messenger RNA (pre‐mRNA) to yield a mature mRNA transcript via splicing is an integral step in eukaryotic gene expression. Splicing is carried out by a cellular nanomachine called the spliceosome that is composed of RNA components and dozens of proteins. Despite decades of study, many fundamentals of spliceosome function have remained elusive. Recent developments in single‐molecule fluorescence microscopy have afforded new tools to better probe the spliceosome and the complex, dynamic process of splicing by direct observation of single molecules. These cutting‐edge technologies enable investigators to monitor the dynamics of specific splicing components, whole spliceosomes, and even cotranscriptional splicing within living cells. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:683–701. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1358

This article is categorized under:

RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics, and Chemistry

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells
Effects of maternal low‐protein diet on parameters of locomotor activity in a rat model of cerebral palsy
Authors: Silva Kássia Oliveira Gomes da , Pereira Sabrina da Conceição , Portovedo Mariana , Milanski Marciane , Galindo Lígia Cristina Monteiro , Guzmán‐Quevedo Omar , Manhães‐de‐Castro Raul , Toscano Ana Elisa
Published: May 2016

Children with cerebral palsy have feeding difficulties that can contribute to undernutrition. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of early undernutrition on locomotor activity and the expression of the myofibrillar protein MuRF‐1 in an experimental model of cerebral palsy (CP). In order to achieve this aim, pregnant rats were divided into two groups according to the diet provided: Normal Protein (NP, n = 9) and Low Protein (LP, n = 12) groups. After birth, the pups were divided into four groups: Normal Protein Sham (NPS, n = 16), Normal Protein Cerebral Palsy (NPCP, n = 21), Low Protein Sham (LPS, n = 20) and Low Protein Cerebral Palsy (LPCP, n = 18) groups. The experimental cerebral palsy protocol consisted of two episodes of anoxia at birth and during the first days of life. Each day, nitrogen flow was used (9l/min during 12 min). After nitrogen exposure, sensorimotor restriction was performed 16 h per day, from the 2nd to the 28th postnatal day (PND). Locomotor activity was evaluated at 8th, 14th, 17th, 21th and 28th PND. At PND 29, soleus muscles were collected to analyse myofibrillar protein MuRF‐1. Our results show that CP animals decreased body weight (p < 0.001), which were associated with alterations of various parameters of locomotor activity (p < 0.05), compared to their control. Undernourished animals also showed a decrease (p < 0.05) in body weight and locomotor activity parameters. Moreover, CP decreased MuRF‐1 levels in nourished rats (p = 0.015) but not in undernourished rats. In summary, perinatal undernutrition exacerbated the negative effects of cerebral palsy on locomotor activity and muscle atrophy, but it appears not be mediated by changes in MuRF‐1 levels.
Thumb function and appearance following treatment of Wassel type III duplication thumbs
Authors: Zhang Haifeng , Du Zijing , Jiang Hao , Han Dong , Li Qingfeng
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT

Objective:

The purpose of our study is to evaluate thumb function and appearance after surgical correction of Wassel type III thumbs polydactyly.

Methods:

We have reconstructed 28 cases of Wassel type III duplication thumbs, in which the duplicated digits were equal or almost equal in size by ablation of a radial digit. The extra thumb is osteotomized at the bifurcation level and excised except for the distal bone fragment supporting the nail bed and fillet flap. Meanwhile, the nail of the retained thumb should be reserved completely, and if the nail has relatively poor appearance it should be repaired by nail lengthening surgery. Eighteen cases were followed up for more than 3 years and were available for assessment using the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand evaluation form. The average age at follow-up was 5 years. The size of the nail and distal phalanx was measured to assess the growth of the thumb.

Results:

An average functional point was 12 points (maximum 14 points) and the cosmetic score averaged 3.6 (maximum 4 points) after the assessment. Slightly small nails without a central ridge were deemed acceptable. Second revision surgery is seldom. Long-term results after surgical reconstruction for duplication thumbs were excellent, and all patients and parents were satisfied with the cosmetic and functional results.

Conclusions:

This procedure is a helpful and effective way to provide functional and aesthetical thumb for Wassel type III duplication thumbs.

Highlights
Laser Treatment of Twin–to–Twin Transfusion Syndrome
Authors: Quintero Rubén A. , Kontopoulos Eftichia , Chmait Ramen H.
Published: May 2016

Objective:Laser ablation of all placental vascular anastomoses is the optimal treatment for twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). However, two important controversies are apparent in the literature: (a) a gap between concept and performance, and (b) controversy regarding whether all the anastomoses can be identified endoscopically and whether blind lasering of healthy placenta is justified. The purpose of this article is: (a) to address the potential source of the gap between concept and performance by analyzing the fundamental steps needed to successfully accomplish the surgery, and (b) to discuss the resulting competency benchmarks reported with the different surgical techniques.Materials and Methods:Laser surgery for TTTS can be broken down into two fundamental steps: (1) endoscopic identification of the placental vascular anastomoses, (2) laser ablation of the anastomoses. The two steps are not synonymous: (a) regarding the endoscopic identification of the anastomoses, the non-selective technique is based upon lasering all vessels crossing the dividing membrane, whether anastomotic or not. The selective technique identifies and lasers only placental vascular anastomoses. The Solomon technique is based on the theory that not all anastomoses are endoscopically visible and thus involves lasering healthy areas of the placenta between lasered anastomoses, (b) regarding the actual laser ablation of the anastomoses, successful completion of the surgery (i.e., lasering all the anastomoses) can be measured by the rate of persistent or reverse TTTS (PRTTTS) and how often a selective technique can be achieved. Articles representing the different techniques are discussed.Results:The non-selective technique is associated with the lowest double survival rate (35%), compared with 60–75% of the Solomon or the Quintero selective techniques. The Solomon technique is associated with a 20% rate of residual patent placental vascular anastomoses, compared to 3.5–5% for the selective technique (p< .05). Both the Solomon and the selective technique are associated with a 1% risk of PRTTTS. Adequate placental assessment is highest with the selective technique (99%) compared with the Solomon (80%) or the ‘standard’ (60%) techniques (p< .05). A surgical performance index is proposed. Conclusion:The Quintero selective technique was associated with the highest rate of successful ablation and lowest rate of PRTTTS. The Solomon technique represents a historical backward movement in the identification of placental vascular anastomoses and is associated with higher rate of residual patent vascular communications. The reported outcomes of the Quintero selective technique do not lend support to the existence of invisible anastomoses or justify lasering healthy placental tissue.
Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: Definition, Staging, and Ultrasound Assessment
Authors: Kontopoulos Eftichia , Chmait Ramen H. , Quintero Ruben A.
Published: May 2016

Objective: The purpose of this article is to review the definition of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and the sonographic diagnostic assessment of these cases prior to therapy.

Materials and Methods: The article addresses the terminology used to refer to the condition and describes the systematic ultrasound assessment of the condition, including the ultrasound diagnosis, the staging of the disease, cervical assessment and pre-operative mapping.

Results: From an etymologic and medical point of view, the term ‘fetofetal transfusion’ is more appropriate than ‘TTTS’. However, as the latter, and its attendant acronym TTTS, have been widely adopted in the English language, it is impractical to change at this point. TTTS is defined sonographically in the combined presence of a maximum vertical pocket (MVP) of 8 cm or greater in one sac and 2 cm or less in the other sac, regardless of the gestational age at diagnosis. Staging of the condition using the Quintero staging system is practical, reproducible, and accepted. Transvaginal cervical length assessment should be an integral part of the ultrasound evaluation. Pre-operative mapping to anticipate the location of the placental vascular anastomoses and avoid injuring the dividing membrane is also discussed.

Conclusions: The term ‘TTTS’ can continue to be used in the English medical literature. The condition can be diagnosed and assessed following a systematic ultrasound methodology. The use of such ultrasound methodology breaks the examination into a distinct set of components, assuring a comprehensive examination and proper communication among caregivers.
Clonal evolution in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia developing resistance to BTK inhibition
Authors: Burger Jan A. , Landau Dan A. , Taylor-Weiner Amaro , Bozic Ivana , Zhang Huidan , Sarosiek Kristopher , Wang Lili , Stewart Chip , Fan Jean , Hoellenriegel Julia , Sivina Mariela , Dubuc Adrian M. , Fraser Cameron , Han Yulong , Li Shuqiang , Livak Kenneth J. , Zou Lihua , Wan Youzhong , Konoplev Sergej , Sougnez Carrie , Brown Jennifer R. , Abruzzo Lynne V. , Carter Scott L. , Keating Michael J. , Davids Matthew S. , Wierda William G. , Cibulskis Kristian , Zenz Thorsten , Werner Lillian , Cin Paola Dal , Kharchencko Peter , Neuberg Donna , Kantarjian Hagop , Lander Eric , Gabriel Stacey , O’Brien Susan , Letai Anthony , Weitz David A. , Nowak Martin A. , Getz Gad , Wu Catherine J.
Published: May 2016

Resistance to the Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib has been attributed solely to mutations inBTKand related pathway molecules. Using whole-exome and deep-targeted sequencing, we dissect evolution of ibrutinib resistance in serial samples from five chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients. In two patients, we detectBTK-C481Smutation or multiplePLCG2mutations. The other three patients exhibit an expansion of clones harbouringdel(8p) with additional driver mutations (EP300, MLL2andEIF2A), with one patient developingtrans-differentiation into CD19-negative histiocytic sarcoma. Using droplet-microfluidic technology and growth kinetic analyses, we demonstrate the presence of ibrutinib-resistant subclones and estimate subclone size before treatment initiation. Haploinsufficiency of TRAIL-R, a consequence ofdel(8p), results in TRAIL insensitivity, which may contribute to ibrutinib resistance. These findings demonstrate that the ibrutinib therapy favours selection and expansion of rare subclones already present before ibrutinib treatment, and provide insight into the heterogeneity of genetic changes associated with ibrutinib resistance.
Adaptive evolution of complex innovations through stepwise metabolic niche expansion
Authors: Szappanos Balázs , Fritzemeier Jonathan , Csörgő Bálint , Lázár Viktória , Lu Xiaowen , Fekete Gergely , Bálint Balázs , Herczeg Róbert , Nagy István , Notebaart Richard A. , Lercher Martin J. , Pál Csaba , Papp Balázs
Published: May 2016

A central challenge in evolutionary biology concerns the mechanisms by which complex metabolic innovations requiring multiple mutations arise. Here, we propose that metabolic innovations accessible through the addition of a single reaction serve as stepping stones towards the later establishment of complex metabolic features in another environment. We demonstrate the feasibility of this hypothesis through three complementary analyses. First, using genome-scale metabolic modelling, we show that complex metabolic innovations in Escherichia coli can arise via changing nutrient conditions. Second, using phylogenetic approaches, we demonstrate that the acquisition patterns of complex metabolic pathways during the evolutionary history of bacterial genomes support the hypothesis. Third, we show how adaptation of laboratory populations of E. coli to one carbon source facilitates the later adaptation to another carbon source. Our work demonstrates how complex innovations can evolve through series of adaptive steps without the need to invoke non-adaptive processes.
Correction: Corrigendum: Differential root transcriptomics in a polyploid non-model crop: the importance of respiration during osmotic stress
Authors: Zorrilla-Fontanesi Yasmín , Rouard Mathieu , Cenci Alberto , Kissel Ewaut , Do Hien , Dubois Emeric , Nidelet Sabine , Roux Nicolas , Swennen Rony , Carpentier Sebastien Christian
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 22583; published online: 03 March 2016; updated: 20 May 2016. In this Article, the Accession codes were omitted from the Additional Information section: Data availability: The short reads of RNA-seq were deposited in NCBI’s Sequence Read Archive (SRA) database with accession numbers from SRX1473480 to SRX1473497 (http://www.
Erratum: Sustained PI3K Activation exacerbates BLM-induced Lung Fibrosis via activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic pathways
Authors: Kral Julia Barbara , Kuttke Mario , Schrottmaier Waltraud Cornelia , Birnecker Birgit , Warszawska Joanna , Wernig Christina , Paar Hannah , Salzmann Manuel , Sahin Emine , Brunner Julia Stefanie , Österreicher Christoph , Knapp Sylvia , Assinger Alice , Schabbauer Gernot
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 23034; published online: 14 March 2016; updated: 20 May 2016. The Acknowledgements section and Author Contributions statement were omitted from this Article. The Acknowledgements section should read: “Floxed PTEN mice and LysMCre recombinase transgenic mice werekind gifts from T.
A Small Molecule Inhibitor of PDK1/PLCγ1 Interaction Blocks Breast and Melanoma Cancer Cell Invasion
Authors: Raimondi Claudio , Calleja Veronique , Ferro Riccardo , Fantin Alessandro , Riley Andrew M. , Potter Barry V. L. , Brennan Caroline H. , Maffucci Tania , Larijani Banafshé , Falasca Marco
Published: May 2016

Strong evidence suggests that phospholipase Cγ1 (PLCγ1) is a suitable target to counteract tumourigenesis and metastasis dissemination. We recently identified a novel signalling pathway required for PLCγ1 activation which involves formation of a protein complex with 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1). In an effort to define novel strategies to inhibit PLCγ1-dependent signals we tested here whether a newly identified and highly specific PDK1 inhibitor, 2-O-benzyl-myo-inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate (2-O-Bn-InsP5), could affect PDK1/PLCγ1 interaction and impair PLCγ1-dependent cellular functions in cancer cells. Here, we demonstrate that 2-O-Bn-InsP5 interacts specifically with the pleckstrin homology domain of PDK1 and impairs formation of a PDK1/PLCγ1 complex. 2-O-Bn-InsP5 is able to inhibit the epidermal growth factor-induced PLCγ1 phosphorylation and activity, ultimately resulting in impaired cancer cell migration and invasion. Importantly, we report that 2-O-Bn-InsP5 inhibits cancer cell dissemination in zebrafish xenotransplants. This work demonstrates that the PDK1/PLCγ1 complex is a potential therapeutic target to prevent metastasis and it identifies 2-O-Bn-InsP5 as a leading compound for development of anti-metastatic drugs.
Correction: Corrigendum: First evidence of European eels exiting the Mediterranean Sea during their spawning migration
Authors: Amilhat Elsa , Aarestrup Kim , Faliex Elisabeth , Simon Gaël , Westerberg Håkan , Righton David
Published: May 2016

Scientific Reports 6: Article number: 21817; published online: 24 February 2016; updated: 20 May 2016. In Figure 2 of this Article, the upper left graph is a duplication of the upper right graph. The correct Figure 2 appears below as Figure 1.
Meta-analysis of studies using statins as a reducer for primary liver cancer risk
Authors: Zhong Guo-Chao , Liu Yan , Ye Yuan-Yuan , Hao Fa-Bao , Wang Kang , Gong Jian-Ping
Published: May 2016

A protective effect of statins on primary liver cancer (PLC) risk has been suggested. However, issues about the dose–response relationship, the protective effect of individual statins and PLC risk reduction among at-risk populations remain unsolved. Therefore, a meta-analysis was conducted. PubMed and EMBASE were searched for studies providing the risk ratio (RR) on statins and PLC risk. Summary RRs were calculated using a random-effects model. Twenty-five studies were identified. Stain use was significantly associated with a reduced risk of PLC (RR = 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.53–0.69). The summary RR for every additional 50 cumulative defined daily doses per year was 0.87 (95% CI = 0.83–0.91). Evidence of a non-linear dose–response relationship between statins and PLC risk was found (Pnon-linearity < 0.01). All individual statins significantly reduced PLC risk and the risk reduction was more evident with rosuvastatin. The inverse association between statins and PLC risk remained among populations with common risk factors. Subgroup analyses revealed more significant reduction in PLC risk by statins in high- versus non-high-risk populations (Pinteraction = 0.02). Overall, these findings add to our understanding of the association between statins and PLC risk. Whether statin use is causally associated with a reduced risk of PLC should be further studied.
Periodically pulsed wet annealing approach for low-temperature processable amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistors with high electrical performance and ultrathin thickness
Authors: Kim Ye Kyun , Ahn Cheol Hyoun , Yun Myeong Gu , Cho Sung Woon , Kang Won Jun , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: May 2016

In this paper, a simple and controllable “wet pulse annealing” technique for the fabrication of flexible amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistors (a-IGZO TFTs) processed at low temperature (150 °C) by using scalable vacuum deposition is proposed. This method entailed the quick injection of water vapor for 0.1 s and purge treatment in dry ambient in one cycle; the supply content of water vapor was simply controlled by the number of pulse repetitions. The electrical transport characteristics revealed a remarkable performance of the a-IGZO TFTs prepared at the maximum process temperature of 150 °C (field-effect mobility of 13.3 cm2 V−1 s−1; Ion/Ioff ratio ≈ 108; reduced I-V hysteresis), comparable to that of a-IGZO TFTs annealed at 350 °C in dry ambient. Upon analysis of the angle-resolved x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the good performance was attributed to the effective suppression of the formation of hydroxide and oxygen-related defects. Finally, by using the wet pulse annealing process, we fabricated, on a plastic substrate, an ultrathin flexible a-IGZO TFT with good electrical and bending performances.
Nonmetallization and band inversion in beryllium dicarbide at high pressure
Authors: Du Henan , Feng Wanxiang , Li Fei , Wang Dashuai , Zhou Dan , Liu Yanhui
Published: May 2016

Carbides have attracted much attention owing to their interesting physical and chemical properties. Here, we systematically investigated global energetically stable structures of BeC2 in the pressure range of 0–100 GPa using a first-principles structural search. A transition from the ambient-pressure α-phase to the high-pressure β-phase was theoretically predicted. Chemical bonding analysis revealed that the predicted phase transition is associated with the transformation from sp2 to sp3 C-C hybridization. The electrical conductivity of the high-pressure phase changed from a metal (α-phase) to a narrow bandgap semiconductor (β-phase) and the β-phase had an inverted band structure with positive pressure dependence. Interestingly, the β-phase was a topological insulator with the metallic surface states protected by the time-reversal symmetry of the crystal. The results indicate that pressure modulates the electronic band structure of BeC2, which is an important finding for fundamental physics and for a wide range of potential applications in electronic devices.
Survey of the genome of Pogostemon cablin provides insights into its evolutionary history and sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis
Authors: He Yang , Xiao Hongtao , Deng Cao , Xiong Liang , Nie Hu , Peng Cheng
Published: May 2016

Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth. (Patchouli) is an important traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has both essential oil value and a broad range of therapeutic effects. Here we report the first de novo assembled 1.15-Gb draft genome sequence for P. cablin from next-generation sequencing technology. Our assembly, with a misassembly rate of <4 bp per 100 kb, is ~73% of the predicted genome size (1.57 Gb). Analysis of whole-genome sequences identified 3,147,333 heterozygous single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 490,407 insertions and deletions, giving an estimated heterozygosity rate of 0.274%. A comprehensive annotation pipeline indicated that repetitive sequences make up 58.55% of the assemblies and that there are estimated 45,020 genes. Comparative genomics analysis showed that the Phrymaceae and Lamiaceae family split ~62.80 Mya and the divergence between patchouli and sesame occurred ~52.42 Mya, implying a potentially shared recent whole-genome duplication event. Analysis of gene homologs involved in sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis showed that patchouli contains key genes involved in more sesquiterpenoid types and has more copies of genes for each sesquiterpenoid type than several other related plant species. The patchouli genome will facilitate future research on secondary metabolic pathways and their regulation as well as potential selective breeding of patchouli.
Interactions of Multiple Atmospheric Circulation Drive the Drought in Tarim River Basin
Authors: Wu Yong-Ping , Feng Guo-Lin , Li Bai-Lian
Published: May 2016

Global warming is likely to cause overall drying of land surfaces and aridity increasing leading to expansion of dry climate zones. There is an increased risk of extremely arid environment and large deserts developed progressively in the central Asia. However, the key factors causing the drying in mid-Asia remain inconclusive. Here, we analyzed the relationship among precipitation, water vapor transportation in Tarim River Basin (TRB) and Multiple Atmospheric Circulation (MAC) to explore the mechanism of MAC driving the drying in TRB, through comparing MAC between abundant and scarce precipitation years. We found that Westerly Circulation (WC) and Asian Summer Monsoon (ASM) are likely to promote the precipitation respectively. Whereas, they not only have their own influence but also restrict each other and facilitate the forming of peculiar water vapor transport channel for TRB, which is probably to restrain the precipitation and its distribution pattern and accelerate the drying in this region. Our results enrich the findings on mechanisms of wet places becoming wetter while dry areas getting drier under the global warming.
Decoupled form and function in disparate herbivorous dinosaur clades
Authors: Lautenschlager Stephan , Brassey Charlotte A. , Button David J. , Barrett Paul M.
Published: May 2016

Convergent evolution, the acquisition of morphologically similar traits in unrelated taxa due to similar functional demands or environmental factors, is a common phenomenon in the animal kingdom. Consequently, the occurrence of similar form is used routinely to address fundamental questions in morphofunctional research and to infer function in fossils. However, such qualitative assessments can be misleading and it is essential to test form/function relationships quantitatively. The parallel occurrence of a suite of morphologically convergent craniodental characteristics in three herbivorous, phylogenetically disparate dinosaur clades (Sauropodomorpha, Ornithischia, Theropoda) provides an ideal test case. A combination of computational biomechanical models (Finite Element Analysis, Multibody Dynamics Analysis) demonstrate that despite a high degree of morphological similarity between representative taxa (Plateosaurus engelhardti, Stegosaurus stenops, Erlikosaurus andrewsi) from these clades, their biomechanical behaviours are notably different and difficult to predict on the basis of form alone. These functional differences likely reflect dietary specialisations, demonstrating the value of quantitative biomechanical approaches when evaluating form/function relationships in extinct taxa.
Correction of the Electrical and Thermal Extrinsic Effects in Thermoelectric Measurements by the Harman Method
Authors: Kang Min-Su , Roh Im-Jun , Lee Yun Goo , Baek Seung-Hyub , Kim Seong Keun , Ju Byeong-Kwon , Hyun Dow-Bin , Kim Jin-Sang , Kwon Beomjin
Published: May 2016

Although the Harman method evaluates the thermoelectric figure-of-merit in a rapid and simple fashion, the accuracy of this method is affected by several electrical and thermal extrinsic factors that have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we study the relevant extrinsic effects and a correction scheme for them. A finite element model simulates the electrical potential and temperature fields of a sample, and enables the detailed analysis of electrical and thermal transport. The model predicts that the measurement strongly depends on the materials, sample geometries, and contact resistance of the electrodes. To verify the model, we measure the thermoelectric properties of Bi2-Te3 based alloys with systematically varied sample geometries and either with a point or a surface current source. By comparing the model and experimental data, we understand how the measurement conditions determine the extrinsic effects, and, furthermore, able to extract the intrinsic thermoelectric properties. A correction scheme is proposed to eliminate the associated extrinsic effects for an accurate evaluation. This work will help the Harman method be more consistent and accurate and contribute to the development of thermoelectric materials.
Diverse Genetic Background of Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Mainland China and Emergence of an Extensively Drug-Resistant ST292 Clone in Kunming
Authors: Fan Xin , Wu Yue , Xiao Meng , Xu Zhi-Peng , Kudinha Timothy , Bazaj Alda , Kong Fanrong , Xu Ying-Chun
Published: May 2016

For a better understanding of the multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR-PA) epidemiology in mainland China, a nationwide surveillance network of 27 tertiary hospitals was established. Non-duplicate MDR-PA isolates from 254 cases of nosocomial infections, were collected during the period August 2011 to July 2012. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of nine antimicrobial agents were determined by broth micro-dilution method according to the CLSI guidelines [M7-A10]. Genotyping analysis was performed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The presence of acquired carbapenemases was also determined by molecular approaches for 233 carbapenem-resistant isolates. Carbapenemase genes were detected in 19 (8.2%) isolates, with 13 of these isolates encoding IMP-type enzymes, five with VIM-2 and one with KPC-2. MLST analysis revealed significant genetic diversity among the MDR-PA isolates studied and 91 STs (including 17 novel STs) were identified. However, a long-term outbreak of an emerging extensively drug-resistant (XDR) ST292/PFGE genotype A clone was detected in a hospital from Southwest China. This study has demonstrated that MDR-PA in mainland China have evolved from diverse genetic backgrounds. Evidence of clonal dissemination of the organism and nosocomial outbreaks in some regions, suggest a need to strengthen existing infection control measures.
Proteinuria as a Therapeutic Target in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease: a Retrospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Chang-Hsu , Wu Hon-Yen , Wang Chieh-Li , Yang Feng-Jung , Wu Pei-Chen , Hung Szu-Chun , Kan Wei-Chih , Yang Chung-Wei , Chiang Chih-Kang , Huang Jenq-Wen , Hung Kuan-Yu
Published: May 2016

Current evidence of proteinuria reduction as a surrogate target in advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) is incomplete due to lack of patient-pooled database. We retrospectively studied a multicenter cohort of 1891 patients who were enrolled in the nationwide multidisciplinary pre-end stage renal disease care program with a baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <45 mL/min/1.73 m2and followed longitudinally to investigate the effect of the change in proteinuria on renal death (defined as composite of dialysis and death occurring before initiation of dialysis). The group with a change in proteinuria ≤0.30 g/g (n = 1261) had lower cumulative probabilities of renal death (p < 0.001). In a linear regression model, a higher baseline proteinuria and a greater increase in proteinuria were associated with faster annual GFR decline. Cox’s analysis showed that every 1 unit increase in natural log(baseline proteinuria, 10 g/g) and every 0.1 g/g increase in the change in proteinuria resulted in 67% (HR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.46–1.91) and 1% (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01–1.01) greater risk of renal death respectively after adjusting for the effects of the other covariates. Our study provided a patient-based evidence to support proteinuria as a therapeutic target in advanced CKD.
Elevated plasma levels of Th17-related cytokines are associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Wu Na , Xu Bin , Liu Yuan , Chen Xinghua , Tang He , Wu Long , Xiang Ying , Zhang Mengxuan , Shu Maoqing , Song Zhiyuan , Li Yafei , Zhong Li
Published: May 2016

We performed a matched case-control study using a propensity score matching, to assess the association of Th17-related cytokines, including interleukin (IL) 17A (IL-17A), IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22 and IL-6, along with interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-10, IL-9 and IL-4, with the risk of AF. A total of 336 patients with AF were matched 1:1 with patients without AF. Plasma levels of cytokines were measured using Luminex xMAP assays. The plasma levels of all examined cytokines were significantly higher in AF patients than controls (P < 0.05) and these cytokines were highly correlated with each other (P < 0.01). A multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis showed that elevated plasma levels of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-9 and IL-6 were significantly associated with AF risk independently of potential confounders. There were no significant differences in plasma levels of examined cytokines between paroxysmal and chronic AF patients. IL-17A, IL-21, IL-10 and IL-6 levels were positively correlated with left atrial diameter; IL-17F level was negatively correlated with left ventricle ejection fraction among AF patients (P < 0.05). Elevated plasma levels of Th17-related cytokines were independently associated with increased an risk of AF; hence, Th17-related cytokines may be involved in the pathogenesis of AF.
Cyp2aa9 regulates haematopoietic stem cell development in zebrafish
Authors: Chen Jingying , He Jianbo , Li Li , Yang Deqin , Luo Lingfei
Published: May 2016

Definitive haematopoiesis occurs during the lifetime of an individual, which continuously replenishes all blood and immune cells. During embryonic development, haematopoietic stem cell (HSC) formation is tightly controlled by growth factors, signalling molecules and transcription factors. But little is known about roles of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2 family member in the haematopoiesis. Here we report characterization and functional studies of Cyp2aa9, a novel zebrafish Cyp2 family member. And demonstrate that the cyp2aa9 is required for the HSC formation and homeostasis. Knockdown of cyp2aa9 by antisense morpholino oligos resulted the definitive HSC development is defective and the Wnt/β-catenin activity becomes reduced. The impaired HSC formation caused by cyp2aa9 morpholino can be rescued by administration of PGE2 through the cAMP/PKA pathway. Furthermore, the in vivo PGE2 level decreases in the cyp2aa9 morphants and none of the PGE2 precursors is able to rescue phenotypes in the Cyp2aa9-deficient embryos. Taken together, these data indicate that Cyp2aa9 is functional in the step of PGE2 synthesis from PGH2, thus promoting Wnt activation and definitive HSC development.
Highly stereoselective cyclopropanation of diazo Weinreb amides catalyzed by chiral Ru(ii)–Amm–Pheox complexes
Authors: Chanthamath Soda , Mandour Hamada S. A. , Tong Thu Minh Thi , Shibatomi Kazutaka , Iwasa Seiji
Published: May 2016

The first highly stereoselective cyclopropanation of diazo Weinreb amides with olefins was accomplished using chiral Ru(ii)–Amm–Pheox complexes to give the corresponding chiral cyclopropyl Weinreb amides in high yields.
Structural disorder, anisotropic micro-strain and cation vacancies in thermo-electric lead chalcogenides
Authors: Christensen Sebastian , Bindzus Niels , Sist Mattia , Takata Masaki , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt
Published: May 2016

Structural disorder, cation defects and anisotropic microstrain is quantified in the deceptively simple rock salt lead chalcogenides, PbX (X = S, Se, Te), based on high-resolution synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction analysis.
Supramolecular polymer networks: hydrogels and bulk materials
Authors: Voorhaar Lenny , Hoogenboom Richard
Published: May 2016

Here, polymer-based supramolecular networks that are formed based on non-covalent physical crosslinks are reviewed. Both hydrogels and bulk materials are discussed with a focus on literature from the last few years.
Investigation of the photophysical and photochemical properties of peripherally tetra-substituted water-soluble zwitterionic and cationic zinc(ii) phthalocyanines
Authors: Çolak Senem , Durmuş Mahmut , Yıldız Salih Zeki
Published: May 2016

4-{4-[N-((3-Dimethylamino)propyl)amide]phenoxy} substituted zinc(ii) phthalocyanine (2) and its water-soluble sulfobetaine (3), betaine (4) and N-oxide (5) containing zwitterionic and cationic (6) derivatives were synthesized for the first time in this study.
Synthesis and structural studies of 1,4-di(2-pyridyl)-1,2,3-triazole dpt and its transition metal complexes; a versatile and subtly unsymmetric ligand
Authors: McCarney Eoin P. , Hawes Chris S. , Blasco Salvador , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: May 2016

Structural analysis of the 1,4-di(2-pyridyl)-1,2,3-triazole ligand and its transition metal complexes of varying lability demonstrate the coordination chemistry selectivity of this subtly unsymmetric ligand.
Construction of highly enantioselective spiro-oxindole derivatives with fused chromene via organocascade catalysis
Authors: Kumari Prathibha , Nandi Sekhar , Kumar Gaurav , Khan Noorul H. , Kureshy Rukhsana I. , Abdi Sayed H. R. , Suresh E. , Bajaj Hari C.
Published: May 2016

A first highly enantioselective addition of naphthols and sesamol to indolylidene cyanoacetate derived from isatins was carried out in the presence of bi-functional quinine thiourea as organocatalyst.
Absorptive supramolecular elastomer wound dressing based on polydimethylsiloxane–(polyethylene glycol)–polydimethylsiloxane copolymer: preparation and characterization
Authors: Deng Wenwen , Lei Yufeng , Zhou Shengwen , Zhang Anqiang , Lin Yaling
Published: May 2016

The introducing of polyethylene glycol block could effectively enhance the hydrophilicity, water-absorbing rate, ability of cohesion and water vapor permeating rate of ESESi film, and help to promoting the wound healing processing.
Enhanced white light emission from a Tm3+/Yb3+/Ho3+ co-doped Na4ZnW3O12 nano-crystalline phosphor via Li+ doping
Authors: Yadav R. S. , Yadav R. V. , Bahadur A. , Rai S. B.
Published: May 2016

This paper reports white light emission from a Tm3+/Yb3+/Ho3+ co-doped Na4ZnW3O12 nano-crystalline phosphor synthesized through a solution combustion method.
Used oxygen-doped C3N4 to enhance the photocatalysis performance of O-C3N4/Ag@AgCl composite photocatalyst
Authors: Li Weibing , Hua Fangxia , Zhang Tao , Zhang Yaping , Xu Qingqing
Published: May 2016

In this study, an oxygen doped-C3N4/Ag@AgCl (O-C3N4/Ag@AgCl) composite was synthesized by deposition–precipitation method and subsequent photoassisted reduction treatment.
Recyclable Cu(i)/melanin dots for cycloaddition, bioconjugation and cell labelling
Authors: Sun Yao , Hong Suhyun , Ma Xiaowei , Cheng Kai , Wang Jing , Zhang Zhe , Yang Meng , Jiang Yuxin , Hong Xuechuan , Cheng Zhen
Published: May 2016

We successfully transferred melanin into a novel catalytic platform. Ligand-free, water-soluble, recyclable and biocompatible Cu(i)-loaded melanin dots [Cu(i)/M-dots] was easily prepared and demonstrate excellent properties for classic CuAAC, bioconjugation and cell labelling.
Connecting energetic nitropyrazole and aminotetrazole moieties with N,N′-ethylene bridges: A promising approach for fine tuning energetic properties
Authors: Kumar Dheeraj , He Chunlin , Mitchell Lauren A. , Parrish Damon A. , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: May 2016

This work demonstrates the fine-tuning of the properties of energetic compounds by bridging different azole based energetic rings.