bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osteogenic apatite particles by sol–gel assisted electrospraying
Authors: Chakrapani Venkatesan Yogeshwar , Sampath Kumar T. S. , Raj Deepa K. , Kumary T. V.
Published: September 2017

Electrospraying has tremendous potential to prepare submicron to nano size ceramic particles with novel properties. In this study, a sol–gel assisted electrospraying has been used to synthesise phase controlled apatite (hydroxyapatite, HA and calcium deficient hydroxyapatite, CDHA) particles. Variation in particle size was also achieved by controlling the process parameters. The particles were non cytotoxic, induced proliferation of osteoblast‐like cells (HOS) and internalised by the cells. Increased alkaline phosphatase, collagen and calcium deposition confirmed the mineralisation of cells. Expression of osteopontin, osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase genes further ascertained that the particles promoted osteogenic commitment of the rat bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs). The particles also showed better loading and release of tetracycline drug than accelerated microwave synthesised apatite particles. The methodology for synthesis of ceramic particles may have avenues for a wide range of biomedical applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1941–1954, 2018.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Activity, and Docking Studies of 1,2,3‐triazole‐tagged Thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidinone Derivatives
Authors: Aruna Kumari M. , Triloknadh S. , Harikrishna N. , Vijjulatha M. , Venkata Rao C.
Published: September 2017

Novel (1‐(substituted phenyl)‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)methyl‐2‐(4‐oxo‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydrobenzo[1,2]thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐3(4H)‐yl)acetate derivatives were synthesized. All the compounds showed significant antibacterial activity against Gram‐negative (Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumonia) and Gram‐positive (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus) bacteria. Particularly, (1‐(3‐nitrophenyl)‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazol‐4‐yl)methyl‐2‐(4‐oxo‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydrobenzo[1, 2]thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐3(4H)‐yl)acetate was found to be most potent against E. coli, K. pneumonia, and B. subtilis with MIC 25 μg/ml. Molecular docking was also performed on purine riboswitch of B. subtilis and thiamine pyrophosphate riboswitch of E. coli.
Molecular Dissection of Extracellular Matrix Proteome Reveals Discrete Mechanism Regulating Verticillium Dahliae Triggered Vascular Wilt Disease in Potato
Authors: Elagamey Eman , Sinha Arunima , Narula Kanika , Abdellatef Magdi A.E. , Chakraborty Niranjan , Chakraborty Subhra
Published: September 2017

Plants exposed to patho‐stress mostly succumb due to disease by disruption of cellular integrity and changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Vascular wilt, caused by the soil borne hemibiotrophic filamentous fungus Verticillium dahliae, is one of the most significant diseases that adversely affect plant growth and productivity. The virulence of the pathogen associated with the ECM‐related susceptibility of the host plant is far from being understood. To better understand ECM‐associated disease responses that allow the pathogen to suppress plant immunity, a temporal analysis of ECM proteome was carried out in vascular wilt susceptible potato cultivar upon V. dahliae infection. The proteome profiling led to the identification of 75 patho‐stress responsive proteins (PSRPs), predominantly involved in wall hydration, architecture, and redox homeostasis. Two novel clues regarding wilt disease of potato were gained from this study. First, wall crosslinking and salicylic acid signaling significantly altered during patho‐stress. Second, generation of reactive oxygen species and scavenging proteins increased in abundance leading to cell death and necrosis of the host. We provide evidence for the first time that how fungal invasion affects the integrity of ECM components and host reprogramming for susceptibility may function at the cell surface by protein plasticity.
Continued Fractions and Upper and Lower Bounds in the Brillouin‐Wigner Perturbation Scheme
Authors: GOSCINSKI OSVALDO
Published: September 2017

A derivation of approximants to a continued fraction development of the energy is presented. It is based on the techniques of infinite order perturbation theory and inner projection of operators. The approximants have been introduced before; here their formal nature is clarified and conditions under which they exhibit extremal properties are presented. The oscillatory behaviour about the true eigenvalue, observed previously in the Mathieu problem, is explained.

Une dérivation des approximations successives pour un développement en fraction continue de l'énergie est presentée. Elle est fondée sur les méthodes de la théorie des perturbations d'ordre infini. Ces approximations sont déjà connues; ici leur nature formelle est clarifiée et des conditions pour qu'ils aient des propietées extrémales sont données. Le comportement oscillatoire autour de la valeur propre exacte, observé auparavant, est expliqué.

Es wurde eine Ableitung von Annäherungen einer Entwicklung der Energie in Kettenbrüchen beschrieben. Sie ist auf Methoden der Störungstheorie unendlicher Ordnung gegründet. Diese Annäherungen sind schon früher eingeführt worden; hier wurde ihre formale Natur abgeklärt und Bedingungen, unter welchen sie Extremaleigenschaften besitzen, wurden hergeleitet. Die Schwingungem um den exakten Eigenwert, die früher in dem Mathieuproblem beobachtet worden sind, wurder hier erklärt.
Scaled AMO Calculations on the Hydrogen Molecule
Authors: BRÄNDAS ERKKI
Published: September 2017

The energy curve for the state of H2 is calculated. An AMO treatment, where the alternant orbitals are differently scaled is used. The three parameters needed are completely varied, this gives satisfactory results. General features of the AMO method, shown up in the present work, are pointed out and connections with earlier calculations are discussed.

On a calculé la courbe d'énergie potentielle de l'état de H2 par la méthode AMO avec des “constantes d'échelle” différentes pour les deux orbitales alternantes. Les trois paramètres ont été complètement variés, ce qui donne des résultats satisfaisants. On discute quelques aspects généraux de la méthode AMO, qui se sont manifestés dans le présent calcul, ainsi que les rapports avec d'autres calculs.

Die Potentialkurve für den Zustand des Wasserstoffmoleküls wurde mit der AMO Methode mit verschiedenen Koordinatenstreckungsfaktoren für die zwei alternierenden Orbitale berechnet. Die drei Parameter wurden vollständig variiert, was befriedigende Resultate gab. Allgemeine Züge der AMO‐Methode, die in dieser Berechnung erschienen sind, and Verbindungen mit anderen Berechnungen wurden diskutiert.
Olfactory Derived Stem Cells Delivered in a Biphasic Conduit Promote Peripheral Nerve Repair In Vivo
Authors: Roche Phoebe , Alekseeva Tijna , Widaa Amro , Ryan Alan , Matsiko Amos , Walsh Michael , Duffy Garry P. , O'Brien Fergal J.
Published: September 2017

Peripheral nerve injury presents significant therapeutic challenges for recovery of motor and sensory function in patients. Different clinical approaches exist but to date there has been no consensus on the most effective method of treatment. Here, we investigate a novel approach to peripheral nerve repair using olfactory derived stem (ONS) cells delivered in a biphasic collagen and laminin functionalized hyaluronic acid based nerve guidance conduit (NGC). Nerve regeneration was studied across a 10-mm sciatic nerve gap in Sprague Dawley rats. The effect of ONS cell loading of NGCs with or without nerve growth factor (NGF) supplementation on nerve repair was compared to a cell-free NGC across a variety of clinical, functional, electrophysiological, and morphologic parameters. Animals implanted with ONS cell loaded NGCs demonstrated improved clinical and electrophysiological outcomes compared to cell free NGC controls. The nerves regenerated across ONS cell loaded NGCs contained significantly more axons than cell-free NGCs. A return of the nocioceptive withdrawal reflex in ONS cell treated animals indicated an advanced repair stage at a relatively early time point of 8 weeks post implantation. The addition of NGF further improved the outcomes of the repair indicating the potential beneficial effect of a combined stem cell/growth factor treatment strategy delivered on NGCs.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Biological Evaluation of Rhenium(I) Tricarbonyl Complexes with β‐Carboline Ligands.
Authors: Maisuls Iván , Wolcan Ezequiel , Piro Oscar E. , Castellano Eduardo E. , Petroselli Gabriela , Erra‐Balsells Rosa , Cabrerizo Franco M. , Ruiz Gustavo T.
Published: September 2017

Two β‐carboline rhenium(I) complexes, fac‐[Re(CO)3(dppz)(nHo)]O3SCF3 and fac‐[Re(CO)3(nHo)2Cl] where dppz=dipyrido[3, 2‐a:2′,3′‐c] phenazine and nHo=9H‐pyrido[3, 4‐b]indole (norharmane), have been synthesized. These complexes were fully characterized by structural X‐ray diffraction, 1H and 13C NMR, UV‐vis absorption and FT‐IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Ground state geometry optimization was carried out in vacuo with the PBE0 hybrid functional using the LanL2DZ basis set. The characterization was complemented with TD‐DFT calculations using several hybrid functionals. Cellular uptake and cytotoxic effect of both complexes against human lung carcinoma (A549) cells were evaluated. For comparative purpose, two related fac‐[Re(CO)3(L)(nHo)]+ complexes (L=bpy and phen) were included in the biological studies. The anti‐proliferative effect of the compounds was rationalized in terms of the different extension of the ligands π‐system.
The Effect of Solution pH and Temperature on the Oscillatory Electro‐Oxidation of Formic Acid on Platinum
Authors: Hartl Fabian W. , Varela Hamilton
Published: September 2017

The effect of solution pH on the electro‐oxidation of formic acid has been discussed in terms of the key role of solution HCOO− species on the third parallel pathway, besides the indirect oxidation via and a possible third pathway involving bridge‐bonded formate. In this contribution we study the role of solution pH and temperature on the oscillatory electro‐oxidation of formic acid on platinum. Highest oxidation rates were found roughly from pH from 5 to 12, whereas no potential oscillations were recorded between pH 4 and 11, probably due to the very fast rates of the main current carrier step: the direct oxidation of solution formate. The decrease in the oxidation rates at high pH also results in the appearance of oscillations at pH 13 and 14, which were considerably distinct than those found in acidic media. The system was further studied from 25 to 50 oC at nine temperatures, and activation energies were estimated in all cases. Overall, the discussion was based in the fact that, under oscillatory regime, many reaction steps are simultaneously active and this is the cause of the peculiarities found in this system, in contrast to that under conventional conditions.
Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of Nonlinear Optical Crystal Na2SiF6
Authors: Zhang Wenyao , Jing Qun , Fang Yuan , Chen Zhaohui
Published: September 2017

Nonlinear optical crystals of fluosilicate Na2SiF6 are synthesized via hydrothermal method and its structure is determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The space group of Na2SiF6 is P321 with cell parameters a = 8.8715(3) Å, c = 5.0484(5) Å, Z = 3, V = 344.09(4) Å3. The properties of the crystal are measured by powder XRD, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, ultraviolet/visible (UV/Vis) near‐infrared (NIR) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, thermogravimetric (TG), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. The bandgap calculated using CASTEP is 7.41 eV, indicating that the cut‐off edge of the Na2SiF6 crystal can be down to deep‐UV energy region. The first‐principles studies were performed to elucidate the structure/property relationship of Na2SiF6.
Are comorbid anxiety disorders a risk factor for suicide attempts in patients with mood disorders? A two-year prospective study
Authors: Abreu L.N. , Oquendo M.A. , Galfavy H. , Burke A. , Grunebaum M.F. , Sher L. , Sullivan G.M. , Sublette M.E. , Mann J. , Lafer B.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Comorbid anxiety disorders have been considered a risk factor for suicidal behavior in patients with mood disorders, although results are controversial. The aim of this two-year prospective study was to determine if lifetime and current comorbid anxiety disorders at baseline were risk factors for suicide attempts during the two-year follow-up.

Methods:

We evaluated 667 patients with mood disorders (504 with major depression and 167 with bipolar disorder) divided in two groups: those with lifetime comorbid anxiety disorders (n= 229) and those without (n= 438). Assessments were performed at baseline and at 3, 12, and 24 months. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and log-rank test were used to evaluate the relationship between anxiety disorders and suicide attempts. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to investigate clinical and demographic variables that were associated with suicide attempts during follow-up.

Results:

Of the initial sample of 667 patients, 480 had all three follow-up interviews. During the follow-up, 63 patients (13.1%) attempted suicide at least once. There was no significant difference in survival curves for patients with and without comorbid anxiety disorders (log-rank test = 0.269;P= 0.604). Female gender (HR = 3.66,P= 0.001), previous suicide attempts (HR = 3.27,P= 0.001) and higher scores in the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (HR = 1.05,P≤ 0.001) were associated with future suicide attempts.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that comorbid anxiety disorders were not risk factors for suicide attempts. Further studies were needed to determine the role of anxiety disorders as risk factors for suicide attempts.
Amelioration of caffeine-induced seizures by modulators of sigma, N-methyl-d-Aspartate and ryanodine receptors in mice
Authors: Keshavarz Mojtaba , Hoseini Seyyed , Akbarzadeh Samad
Published: September 2017

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiepileptic effects of opipramol, a sigma receptor agonist, diazepam, ketamine, an N-methyl-d-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, and dantrolene, a ryanodine receptor antagonist, against caffeine-induced seizures in mice.

Methods We used caffeine (1000 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for inducing clonic and tonic-clonic seizures in male albino Swiss strain of mice. We used opipramol in three different doses (10, 20 and 50 mg/kg), ketamine (50 mg/kg), dantrolene (40 mg/kg), opipramol (20 mg/kg) plus ketamine (50 mg/kg), opipramol (20 mg/kg) plus dantrolene (40 mg/kg), diazepam (5 mg/kg as a positive control) and the vehicle 30 min before injecting caffeine. We recorded the onset of clonic, tonic-clonic seizures and the time of death of animals after using caffeine.

Results Animals treated with opipramol at a dose of 50 mg/kg or diazepam had a higher onset of clonic seizure compared with the vehicle-treated group. Dantrolene alone or with opipramol (20 mg/kg) increased the latency of clonic seizure compared with the control group. Opipramol (20 and 50 mg/kg), diazepam, ketamine alone or with opipramol, and dantrolene plus opipramol increased the latency of tonic-clonic seizures in mice. All the treatments except opipramol (10 mg/kg) and dantrolene alone increased the latency of death of animals.

Conclusion Opipramol attenuated seizures produced by high doses of caffeine. Moreover, the activation of sigma receptors and inhibition of ryanodine receptors may produce synergistic effects against caffeine-induced seizures. Our study may imply that different mechanisms such as inhibition of gamma-aminobutyric acid-A receptors, activation of NMDA and ryanodine receptors may contribute to the caffeine-induced seizures.
Altered Penile Caveolin Expression in Diabetes: Potential Role in Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Parikh Jay , Zemljic-Harpf Alice , Fu Johnny , Giamouridis Dimosthenis , Hsieh Tung-Chin , Kassan Adam , Murthy Karnam S. , Bhargava Valmik , Patel Hemal H. , Rajasekaran M. Raj
Published: September 2017

Background

The pathophysiology of increased severity of erectile dysfunction in men with diabetes and their poor response to oral pharmacotherapy are unclear. Defective vascular endothelium and consequent impairment in the formation and action of nitric oxide (NO) are implicated as potential mechanisms. Endothelial NO synthase, critical for NO generation, is localized to caveolae, plasma membrane lipid rafts enriched in structural proteins, and caveolins. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-induced changes in caveolin expression are recognized to play a role in cardiovascular dysfunction.

Aims

To evaluate DM-related changes to male erectile tissue in a mouse model that closely resembles human T2DM and study the specific role of caveolins in penile blood flow and microvascular perfusion using mice lacking caveolin (Cav)-1 or Cav-3.

Methods

We used wild-type C57BL6 (control) and Cav-1 and Cav-3 knockout (KO) male mice. T2DM was induced by streptozotocin followed by a high-fat diet for 4 months. Penile expressions of Cav-1, Cav-3, and endothelial NO synthase were determined by western blot, and phosphodiesterase type 5 activity was measured using [3H] cyclic guanosine monophosphate as a substrate. For hemodynamic studies, Cav-1 and Cav-3 KO mice were anesthetized, and penile blood flow (peak systolic velocity and end-diastolic velocity; millimeters per second) was determined using a high-frequency and high-resolution digital imaging color Doppler system. Penile tissue microcirculatory blood perfusion (arbitrary perfusion units) was measured using a novel PeriCam PSI system.

Outcomes

Penile erectile tissues were harvested for histologic studies to assess Cav-1, Cav-3, and endothelial NO synthase expression, phosphodiesterase type 5 activity, and blood flow, and perfusion measurements were assessed for hemodynamic studies before and after an intracavernosal injection of prostaglandin E1 (50 ng).

Results

In T2DM mice, decreased Cav-1 and Cav-3 penile protein expression and increased phosphodiesterase type 5 activity were observed. Decreased response to prostaglandin E1 in peak systolic velocity (33 ± 4 mm/s in Cav-1 KO mice vs 62 ± 5 mm/s in control mice) and perfusion (146 ± 12 AU in Cav-1 KO mice vs 256 ± 12 AU in control mice) was observed. Hemodynamic changes in Cav-3 KO mice were insignificant.

Clinical Translation

Our findings provide novel mechanistic insights into erectile dysfunction severity and poor pharmacotherapy that could have potential application to patients with T2DM.

Strengths and Limitations

Use of KO mice and novel hemodynamic techniques are the strengths. A limitation is the lack of direct evaluation of penile hemodynamics in T2DM mice.

Conclusion

Altered penile Cav-1 expression in T2DM mice and impaired penile hemodynamics in Cav-1 KO mice suggests a regulatory role for Cav-1 in DM-related erectile dysfunction.
The Law and Religious Market Theory
Authors: Chen Jianlin
Published: September 2017

With comparative case studies from China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, Jianlin Chen's new work offers a fresh, descriptive and normative perspective on law and religion. This presentation of the original Law and Religious Market Theory employs an interdisciplinary approach that sheds light on this subject for scholars in legal and sociological disciplines. It sets out the precise nature of religious competition envisaged by the current legal regimes in the three jurisdictions and analyses how certain restrictions on religious practices may facilitate normatively desirable market dynamics. This updated and invaluable resource provides a new and insightful investigation into this fascinating area of law and religion in Greater China today.
Differences between DSM-IV and DSM-5 as applied to child and adolescent psychiatry and neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Shujah Z. , Mulligan A.
Published: September 2017

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-5) was published by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013. We discuss the important differences between DSM-IV and DSM-5 with particular relevance to child and adolescent psychiatry. The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder are discussed in detail, as well as a summary of other changes in DSM-5 relevant to child and adolescent psychiatry. The discussion is supported by a review of relevant literature.
First-principles calculation of intrinsic defect chemistry and self-doping in PbTe
Authors: Goyal Anuj , Gorai Prashun , Toberer Eric S. , Stevanović Vladan
Published: September 2017

Semiconductor dopability is inherently limited by intrinsic defect chemistry. In many thermoelectric materials, narrow band gaps due to strong spin–orbit interactions make accurate atomic level predictions of intrinsic defect chemistry and self-doping computationally challenging. Here we use different levels of theory to model point defects in PbTe, and compare and contrast the results against each other and a large body of experimental data. We find that to accurately reproduce the intrinsic defect chemistry and known self-doping behavior of PbTe, it is essential to (a) go beyond the semi-local GGA approximation to density functional theory, (b) include spin–orbit coupling, and (c) utilize many-body GW theory to describe the positions of individual band edges. The hybrid HSE functional with spin–orbit coupling included, in combination with the band edge shifts from G0W0 is the only approach that accurately captures both the intrinsic conductivity type of PbTe as function of synthesis conditions as well as the measured charge carrier concentrations, without the need for experimental inputs. Our results reaffirm the critical role of the position of individual band edges in defect calculations, and demonstrate that dopability can be accurately predicted in such challenging narrow band gap materials.
Optimization of Glucose Powered Biofuel Cell Anode Developed by Polyaniline-Silver as Electron Transfer Enhancer and Ferritin as Biocompatible Redox Mediator
Authors: Haque Sufia ul , Inamuddin  , Nasar Abu , Rajender B. , Khan Anish , Asiri Abdullah M. , Ashraf Ghulam Md
Published: September 2017

Polyaniline-silver (PANI-Ag)/ferritin (Frt)/glucose oxidase (GOx) biocompatible anode was utilized for creating power from glucose. The synthesized nanocomposite was investigated by EIS (Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), SEM (Scanning electron microscopy), CV (Cyclic voltammetry), and LSV (Linear sweep voltammetry) to know the morphology, crystallinity and electrochemical behaviour of the nanocomposite. The electroactive support (PANI-Ag) was utilized for the immobilization of the enzyme (GOx) and a biocompatible mediator (Frt) to enhance the electrical signals. The electrochemical estimations of the manufactured bioanode were done by utilizing cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV). The current density obtained by the PANI-Ag/Frt/GOx bioanode was observed to be 25.40 ± 2 mA cm−2 at 40 mM of glucose concentration at a scan rate of 100 mVs−1.
Chlorinated emodin as a natural antibacterial agent against drug-resistant bacteria through dual influence on bacterial cell membranes and DNA
Authors: Duan Feixia , Xin Guang , Niu Hai , Huang Wen
Published: September 2017

The rise in infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens and a lack of effective medicines requires the discovery of new antibacterial agents. Naturally chlorinated emodin 1,3,8-trihydroxy-4-chloro-6-methyl-anthraquinone (CE) from fungi and lichens was found to markedly inhibit the growth of Gram-positive bacteria, especially common drug-resistant bacterial strains, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE). CE was confirmed to cause significant potassium leakage, cell membrane depolarization and damage to the selective permeability of cell membranes in bacterial cells, resulting in bacterial cell death. In addition, CE was shown to have a strong electrostatic interaction with bacterial DNA and induce DNA condensation. Thus, CE is a promising natural antibacterial pharmacophore against Gram-positive bacteria, especially common drug-resistant MRSA and VRE isolates, with a dual antibacterial mechanism that damages bacterial cell membranes and DNA.
The GBAP1 pseudogene acts as a ceRNA for the glucocerebrosidase gene GBA by sponging miR-22-3p
Authors: Straniero Letizia , Rimoldi Valeria , Samarani Maura , Goldwurm Stefano , Di Fonzo Alessio , Krüger Rejko , Deleidi Michela , Aureli Massimo , Soldà Giulia , Duga Stefano , Asselta Rosanna
Published: September 2017

Mutations in the GBA gene, encoding lysosomal glucocerebrosidase, represent the major predisposing factor for Parkinson’s disease (PD), and modulation of the glucocerebrosidase activity is an emerging PD therapy. However, little is known about mechanisms regulating GBA expression. We explored the existence of a regulatory network involving GBA, its expressed pseudogene GBAP1, and microRNAs. The high level of sequence identity between GBA and GBAP1 makes the pseudogene a promising competing-endogenous RNA (ceRNA), functioning as a microRNA sponge. After selecting microRNAs potentially targeting both transcripts, we demonstrated that miR-22-3p binds to and down-regulates GBA and GBAP1, and decreases their endogenous mRNA levels up to 70%. Moreover, over-expression of GBAP1 3′-untranslated region was able to sequester miR-22-3p, thus increasing GBA mRNA and glucocerebrosidase levels. The characterization of GBAP1 splicing identified multiple out-of-frame isoforms down-regulated by the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay, suggesting that GBAP1 levels and, accordingly, its ceRNA effect, are significantly modulated by this degradation process. Using skin-derived induced pluripotent stem cells of PD patients with GBA mutations and controls, we observed a significant GBA up-regulation during dopaminergic differentiation, paralleled by down-regulation of miR-22-3p. Our results describe the first microRNA controlling GBA and suggest that the GBAP1 non-coding RNA functions as a GBA ceRNA.
Broadband modulation of terahertz waves through electrically driven hybrid bowtie antenna-VO2 devices
Authors: Han Chunrui , Parrott Edward P. J. , Humbert Georges , Crunteanu Aurelian , Pickwell-MacPherson Emma
Published: September 2017

Broadband modulation of terahertz (THz) light is experimentally realized through the electrically driven metal-insulator phase transition of vanadium dioxide (VO2) in hybrid metal antenna-VO2 devices. The devices consist of VO2 active layers and bowtie antenna arrays, such that the electrically driven phase transition can be realized by applying an external voltage between adjacent metal wires extended to a large area array. The modulation depth of the terahertz light can be initially enhanced by the metal wires on top of VO2 and then improved through the addition of specific bowties in between the wires. As a result, a terahertz wave with a large beam size (~10 mm) can be modulated within the measurable spectral range (0.3–2.5 THz) with a frequency independent modulation depth as high as 0.9, and the minimum amplitude transmission down to 0.06. Moreover, the electrical switch on/off phase transition depends very much on the size of the VO2 area, indicating that smaller VO2 regions lead to higher modulation speeds and lower phase transition voltages. With the capabilities in actively tuning the beam size, modulation depth, modulation bandwidth as well as the modulation speed of THz waves, our study paves the way in implementing multifunctional components for terahertz applications.
Recent advances in nanomaterials for water protection and monitoring
Authors: Das Rasel , Vecitis Chad D. , Schulze Agnes , Cao Bin , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Lu Xianbo , Chen Jiping , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: September 2017

Nanomaterials (NMs) for adsorption, catalysis, separation, and disinfection are scrutinized. NMs-based sensor technologies and environmental transformations of NMs are highlighted.
Sydnone–alkyne cycloaddition: applications in synthesis and bioconjugation
Authors: Decuypère Elodie , Plougastel Lucie , Audisio Davide , Taran Frédéric
Published: September 2017

This feature article aims at providing an overview of the recent developments in sydnone–alkyne cycloadditions. Particular attention has been focused on the strategies for achieving high regiocontrol, milder reaction conditions and applications in the field of click and biorthogonal chemistry.
Inclusion of a dithiadiazolyl radical in a seemingly non-porous solid
Authors: Nikolayenko Varvara I. , Barbour Leonard J. , Arauzo Ana , Campo Javier , Rawson Jeremy M. , Haynes Delia A.
Published: September 2017

Incorporation of a dithiadiazolyl radical into a dynamic paramagnetic metallocycle yields an unusual paramagnetic hybrid material with exchange coupling between host and guest.
Ligand-induced reactivity of β-diketiminate magnesium complexes for regioselective functionalization of fluoroarenes via C–H or C–F bond activations
Authors: Davin Laia , McLellan Ross , Kennedy Alan R. , Hevia Eva
Published: September 2017

Using β-diketiminate sheltered Mg manifolds with an alkyl or amido ligand enables fine-tuning of their reactivity for chemoselective functionalization of fluoroarenes via either Mg–H exchange or C–F bond activation.
Crystallographic and topographical evolutions of a cylinder patterned sapphire substrate etched with a sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid mixture: an SEM and AFM study
Authors: Shen Jian , Zhang Dan , Wang You , Gan Yang
Published: September 2017

Using cylinders as a model system, the full spectrum of crystallographic and topographical evolutions of patterned sapphire substrates is exhibited.
Attractive PH⋯HP interactions revealed by state-of-the-art ab initio calculations
Authors: Yourdkhani Sirous , Jabłoński Mirosław , Echeverría Jorge
Published: September 2017

We report in this work a combined structural and state-of-the-art computational study of homopolar P–H⋯H–P intermolecular contacts.
Diphenylsilane as a coupling reagent for amide bond formation
Authors: Sayes Morgane , Charette André B.
Published: September 2017

A simple amidation procedure enabling the direct coupling of carboxylic acids to amines using one equivalent of diphenysilane is reported.
Heterostructured TiO2@OC core@shell photocatalysts for highly efficient waste water treatment
Authors: Bravo Jennifer L. , Chirino Hermes , Mao Yuanbing
Published: September 2017

Facile, scalable and cost-effective organic layer coating of TiO2 particles greatly enhances the photocatalytic degradation of dye molecules.
Biosynthesized Pd/γ-Al2O3 catalysts for low-temperature 1,3-butadiene hydrogenation: the effect of calcination atmosphere
Authors: Lu Fenfen , Xu Yan , Jiang Xia , Liu Yang , Huang Jiale , Sun Daohua
Published: September 2017

The effect of pretreatment atmosphere on 1,3-butadiene hydrogenation over biosynthesized Pd/γ-Al2O3 catalysts was reported.
Carbazole- and/or triphenylamine-based D–π–D multiarylamino dyes: synthesis, characterization and photophysical properties
Authors: Zhao Baodong , Zhao Weidong , Yu Liujian , Li Jie , Zhao Yuming , Wang Tao
Published: September 2017

One-photon and two-photon fluorescence quenching by benzoyl peroxide of D–π–D multiarylamino dyes was investigated.
Some new azobenzene liquid crystals involving chalcone and ester linkages
Authors: Zhu Xueyou , Yin Fengnan , Zhao Haiying , Chen Shufeng , Bian Zhanxi
Published: September 2017

New azobenzene derivatives containing chalcone and ester linkages showed photo-responsive behaviours and alkoxy chain and terminal group effects on their mesomorphic properties.
The assembly of small molecule conjugate amphiphiles into a precise nanomedicine for colon cancer
Authors: Sheng Shihou , Chen Yahong , Zhang Tao , Ding Meng , Wu Yuanyu , Shen Zhen , Han Gang , Wang Xu
Published: September 2017

A small molecule conjugate based on a traditional Chinese medicine cantharidin (CTR), which is an anhydride, and the anticancer drug camptothecin (CPT) was designed.
Memristive behavior in In2Se3 asymmetrical hetero-structures
Authors: Yuan Yafei , Cao Xinran , Sun Yan , Su Jing , Liu Chunmin , Cheng Ling , Yuan Lihua , Zhang Hao , Li Jing
Published: September 2017

Based on Ag/In2Se3/ITO and Ta/In2Se3/ITO asymmetrical heterostructures, several memristive samples were prepared by the magnetron sputtering method.
A polystyrene/WO3 opal composite monolayer film as a building block for the fabrication of 3D WO3 inverse opal films
Authors: Li Hua , Wang Jian Feng , Vienneau Guillaume , Zhu Guo Bin , Wang Xi Gang , Robichaud Jacques , Su Bao-Lian , Djaoued Yahia
Published: September 2017

Large area Polystyrene/WO3 opal composite monolayers were successfully fabricated via a modified “dynamic-hard-template” infiltration strategy, and then used as building block for the synthesis of 3D WO3 inverse opal films in a bottom-up approach.
Adjustment of the solid fluorescence of a chalcone derivative through controlling steric hindrance
Authors: Zhang Liang , Liu Jie , Gao Junkuo , Lu Rong , Liu Fang
Published: September 2017

A chalcone derivative, ANPEO, exhibits weak emission in the solution state but high fluorescence efficiency in the solid state (66%).
Evolution of heterogeneity accompanying sol–gel transitions in a supramolecular hydrogel
Authors: Matsumoto Yuji , Shundo Atsuomi , Ohno Masashi , Tsuruzoe Nobutomo , Goto Masahiro , Tanaka Keiji
Published: September 2017

Heterogeneity in a supramolecular hydrogel was preserved when the shaking and aging cycle, which was a stimulus for a sol–gel transition, was repeated.
Strain and pH facilitated artificial photosynthesis in monolayer MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Dimple Dimple , Jena Nityasagar , Rawat Ashima , De Sarkar Abir
Published: September 2017

Strain and pH induced optimization of artificial photosynthetic activity in single layer MoS2.
Towards improved HIV-microbicide activity through the co-encapsulation of NRTI drugs in biocompatible metal organic framework nanocarriers
Authors: Marcos-Almaraz M. T. , Gref R. , Agostoni V. , Kreuz C. , Clayette P. , Serre C. , Couvreur P. , Horcajada P.
Published: September 2017

Stable and active nano-formulations of the biocompatible MOF MIL-100(Fe) coencapsulating two anti-HIV drugs are proposed as efficient HIV microbicides.
Optimal linear filtering design for discrete‐time systems with cross‐correlated stochastic parameter matrices and noises
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhou Jie
Published: September 2017

This study investigates the design of an optimal linear estimator for a class of discrete‐time linear systems with correlated stochastic parameter matrices and noises. The considered systems are endowed with the following two main features: (i) cross‐correlated stochastic matrices involved in the state and observation equations are assumed and (ii) the process and observation noises have cross‐correlation at the same time instant. A decorrelation framework is established to reconstruct such systems. With the equivalent transformation of original dynamic systems resulting from decorrelating operations, the optimal linear recursive filter in the minimum mean square error sense is developed by employing the results of Kalman filtering. The discrete‐time linear systems with multiple packet dropouts are modelled as a particular case, and then the proposed filter is applied directly to estimate the system state, while a comparative analysis between the new method and the existing approaches is provided. Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented algorithm.
A novel approach to control synthesis of positive switched systems
Authors: Zhang Junfeng , Zhang Ridong , Cai Xiushan , Jia Xianglei
Published: September 2017

This study addresses the control synthesis of positive switched systems in both continuous‐ and discrete‐time contexts. First, a novel design approach to the state‐feedback controller of continuous‐time positive switched systems without time delay is presented by virtue of multiple linear copositive Lyapunov functions associated with linear programming. Then, the design approach is extended to discrete‐time positive switched systems. It is shown that the presented approach is less conservative than existing ones through comparisons. Furthermore, the approach is developed to the stabilisation of positive switched systems with time delay. Some discussions on the presented approach are provided to show potential applications in corresponding control issues of positive switched systems. Finally, two examples are given to illustrate the theoretical findings.
Distributed coordination for a class of non‐linear multi‐agent systems with regulation constraints
Authors: Tang Yutao , Yi Peng
Published: September 2017

In this study, a multi‐agent coordination problem with steady‐state regulation constraints is investigated for a class of non‐linear systems. Unlike the existing leader‐following coordination formulations, a reference signal is not given by a dynamic autonomous leader but determined as the optimal solution of a distributed optimisation problem. Furthermore, the authors consider a global constraint having noisy data observations for the optimisation problem, which implies that the reference signal is not trivially available with the existing optimisation algorithms. To handle these challenges, the authors present a passivity‐based analysis and design approach by using only local objective function, local data observation and exchanged information from their neighbours. The proposed distributed algorithms are shown to achieve the optimal steady‐state regulation by rejecting the unknown observation disturbances for passive non‐linear agents, which are persuasive in various practical problems. Applications and simulation examples are then given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed design.
Disambiguation of interferometric DOA estimates in vehicular passive radar
Authors: Searle Stephen
Published: September 2017

Passive sensing involves the exploitation of ambient radio‐frequency transmissions to infer the presence and properties of reflectors in the vicinity. With multiple receivers the directions of arrival (DOA) may be estimated. Interferometry is a simple means of DOA estimation, requiring minimal computational cost and as few as two receivers. However, interferometry suffers from ambiguity: signals incident from several distinct DOAs are indistinguishable because they yield the same measurement. This study considers interferometrical DOA estimation applied to the vehicular communications environment, assuming a vehicle equipped with two receivers. An algorithm for the disambiguation of DOA estimates using measurements from a second baseline is presented and a probabilistic analysis of this method is undertaken. The construction of extra baselines by consideration of the vehicle motion between signal frames is considered. The use of second‐order measurement ratios generates baselines of acceptable length, given typical vehicle speeds. The effect of bias induced by second‐order methods is explored.
Micro‐Doppler effect removal for ISAR imaging based on bivariate variational mode decomposition
Authors: Kang Wenwu , Zhang Yunhua , Dong Xiao
Published: September 2017

Micro‐Doppler (m‐D) effect is caused by vibrations and/or rotations of mechanical components of moving targets. The m‐D signatures corresponding to such micro‐motions (m‐Ms) may significantly degrade the usefulness of synthetic aperture radar/inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imagery. The strong echo of the main body of a target can make the m‐D parameter estimation of the vibrating or rotating parts more difficult. The removal of m‐D effect from target's ISAR image is thus very important for realising high‐resolution imaging of a complex target involving m‐M parts. To treat this problem, the bivariate variational mode decomposition (BVMD) is proposed to get rid of the m‐D effect from the image of target's main body. The BVMD method first decomposes the radar echoes of range cells into a series of complex‐valued mode functions according to which m‐D signatures can be distinguished and removed from common Doppler responses. Finally, a refined ISAR image of the main body is produced using conventional range–Doppler imaging algorithms. Both simulated and real measured data are processed to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A second order in time incremental pressure correction finite element method for the Navier-Stokes/Darcy problem
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Li Shishun , Si Zhiyong
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we give a second order in time incremental pressure correction finite element method for the Navier-Stokes/Darcy problem. In this method, the Navier-Stokes/Darcy problem is solved in three steps: a convection-diffusion step, a projection correction (incremental pressure correction) step and a Darcy step. In this way, the Navier-Stokes/Darcy equation is solved in a fractional step way, which is a decoupled method. In order to decouple the equation, we use the numerical solutions at the last time level to give the interface conditions. The stability analysis shows that the second order in time incremental pressure correction finite element method is unconditionally stable. The optimal error estimate is also given. Finally, we present some numerical results to show the efficiency of the method.
Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: Effect on Psychiatric Symptoms and Quality of Life
Authors: Seijo Zazo Elisa , Fernandez Fernando , Liebana Elena , Ayala Antonio , Aragoneses Beatriz , Campa Jose , Portilla Paz , Vega Marco
Published: September 2017

Background and Study Aims To determine the effect on psychiatric symptoms and quality of life in 30 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) treated with deep brain stimulation (DBS) of both subthalamic nuclei (STN) after 1 year of follow-up.

Material and Method We conducted a prospective 1-year follow-up study with a baseline assessment before and 6 and 12 months after surgery. The following were used as assessment instruments: the Bech-Rafaelsen Melancholia Scale (MES), the Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Scale (MAS), the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (SSI), the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), the Oviedo Sleep Questionnaire (OSQ), the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the dose of levodopa, and the active contact stereotactic coordinates.

Results We recorded a clinical improvement between baseline with medication use (ON medication) and the results obtained at 6 and 12 months with medication use and stimulation (ON stimulation, ON medication) in MES and OSQ (p < 0.0001) and in SF-36 (p < 0.005). No changes were observed in MAS and SSI. There was a clinical improvement between baseline with ON medication and the results obtained at 12 months with ON stimulation, ON medication in Y-BOCS (p < 0.04). Also, there was a 53.3% reduction in levodopa at 6 months and a 54.7% reduction at 12 months after surgery (p < 0.0001). There was an improvement between baseline with OFF medication and the results obtained at 6 and 12 months OFF medication, ON stimulation (p < 0.0001) in UPDRS-III. There were no statistically significant differences between the initial and final active contact coordinates, or between stimulation parameters.

Conclusions DBS of the STN in patients with PD is associated with an improvement in psychiatric (affective and sleep-wake cycle) symptoms, clinical motor symptoms, and quality of life at 1 year after surgery.
Measuring Patient-Reported Outcomes in Rhinoplasty Using the FACE-Q: A Single Site Study
Authors: Badia Lydia , Marsh Daniel , Pusic Andrea , Klassen Anne , East Charles
Published: September 2017

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular surgical cosmetic treatments. Measuring the appearance of the nose has typically involved the use of observer- or surgeon-reported outcome measures (e.g., photographs). While objective outcomes are important, facial appearance is subjective, and therefore outcome assessment should incorporate the patient perspective through the use of patient-reported outcome measures. This study aims to explore relationships between FACE-Q scales scores and measuring adverse effects and change 4 months after surgery in a United Kingdom sample. A questionnaire booklet was completed by patients seeking rhinoplasty between March 2014 and March 2015. The study was conducted at a facial plastic surgery clinic office in London, United Kingdom. Pre- and postoperative rhinoplasty patients aged 19 years and older participated in the study. FACE-Q scales/checklist was utilized for the study. A total of 54 preoperative patients completed seven FACE-Q scales. Before surgery, characteristics of the nose that our sample at least satisfied (i.e., at the harder end of the clinical hierarchy) included the tip of the nose, and how the nose looked in photos and from different angles. In preoperative participants, lower scores for satisfaction with nose and/or nostrils correlated with lower satisfaction with facial appearance and appearance-related psychosocial distress. Participants (N = 13) who had surgery reported significant improvement in satisfaction with the nose, nostrils, and facial appearance overall, and improved psychological and social function. Standardized response means ranged from 0.65 (social function) to 1.55 (facial appearance). The FACE-Q rhinoplasty module can be used in clinical practice, research, and quality improvement to incorporate the patient perspective of appearance in outcome assessments. The level of evidence is defined as level III (diagnostic).
Headache and Shunt-Related Impact on Activities of Daily Life in Patients Growing Up with a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Authors: Bellstädt Lina , Steiger Hans-Jakob , Sarikaya-Seiwert Sevgi , Beez Thomas
Published: September 2017

Background/Aims Ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPS) are a mainstay of treatment for hydrocephalus. Morbidity related to infection and dysfunction is well known, whereas data on psychosocial outcome and quality of life are scarce. Our aim was to assess headache burden and shunt-related impact on daily life in children growing up with a VPS.

Methods Patients between 3 and 21 years of age were identified and their families were contacted. A set of standardized questionnaires was used to assess headache and quality of life.

Results Fifteen patients with a mean age of 12 years agreed to participate in this study. Satisfaction with the VPS and improvement of the patient's condition was reported by 87%. A total of 67% denied negative impact on everyday life, reported a headache less than once a month, and never or rarely miss school. However, 53% take precautions before special activities.

Conclusions The results demonstrate that modern VPS systems are tolerated very well and do not per se reduce quality of life. However, patients adapt to the presence of a VPS by avoiding risks and taking precautions. Chronic headache is not a major problem and not necessarily attributed to the VPS. Nevertheless, most patients asked for technical improvements, which might guide future research and the technical development of VPS.
Microorganisms Identified in the Maternal Bladder: Discovery of the Maternal Bladder Microbiota
Authors: Jacobs Kristin , Thomas-White Krystal , Hilt Evann , Wolfe Alan , Waters Thaddeus
Published: September 2017

Objective The objective of this study was to characterize the bladder microbiota in pregnancy.

Methods A prospective observational study of 51 pregnant women, admitted to a tertiary care hospital, who underwent straight catheterization urine collection or transurethral Foley catheter placement. 16S rRNA gene sequencing and enhanced quantitative urine culture assessed the maternal bladder microbiota with comparisons made to standard urine culture results.

Results Enhanced quantitative urine culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing detected bacteria in the majority of participants. Lactobacillus and Gardnerella were the most commonly detected microbes. In contrast, standard urine culture had a 100% false-negative rate and failed to detect several known or emerging urinary pathogens.

Conclusion There are live bacteria in the bladders of most pregnant women. This challenges the definition of asymptomatic bacteriuria.