bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced biological effect of e-cigarette aerosol compared to cigarette smoke evaluated in vitro using normalized nicotine dose and RNA-seq-based toxicogenomics
Authors: Haswell Linsey E. , Baxter Andrew , Banerjee Anisha , Verrastro Ivan , Mushonganono Jessica , Adamson Jason , Thorne David , Gaça Marianna , Minet Emmanuel
Published: April 2017

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) use has increased globally and could potentially offer a lower risk alternative to cigarette smoking. Here, we assessed the transcriptional response of a primary 3D airway model acutely exposed to e-cigarette aerosol and cigarette (3R4F) smoke. Aerosols were generated with standard intense smoking regimens with careful consideration for dose by normalizing the exposures to nicotine. Two e-cigarette aerosol dilutions were tested for equivalent and higher nicotine delivery compared to 3R4F. RNA was extracted at 24 hrs and 48 hrs post exposure for RNA-seq. 873 and 205 RNAs were differentially expressed for 3R4F smoke at 24 hrs and 48 hrs using a pFDR < 0.01 and a [fold change] > 2 threshold. 113 RNAs were differentially expressed at the highest dose of e-cigarette aerosol using a looser threshold of pFDR < 0.05, 3 RNAs exceeded a fold change of 2. Geneset enrichment analysis revealed a clear response from lung cancer, inflammation, and fibrosis associated genes after 3R4F smoke exposure. Metabolic/biosynthetic processes, extracellular membrane, apoptosis, and hypoxia were identified for e-cigarette exposures, albeit with a lower confidence score. Based on equivalent or higher nicotine delivery, an acute exposure to e-cigarette aerosol had a reduced impact on gene expression compared to 3R4F smoke exposure in vitro.
Time-Resolved Visual Chiral Discrimination of Cysteine Using Unmodified CdTe Quantum Dots
Authors: Ghasemi Forough , Hormozi-Nezhad M. Reza , Mahmoudi Morteza
Published: April 2017

Herein, we demonstrate a simple yet novel luminescence assay for visual chiral discrimination of cysteine. Thioglycolic acid (TGA)-capped cadmium-telluride (CdTe) quantum dots (QDs) exposing green emission were directly synthesized in aqueous solution. The interaction between cysteine molecules and CdTe QDs induced the aggregation of QDs via hydrogen bonding. As a result of electronic coupling within these aggregates, a redshift both in the absorption and emission spectra of QDs occured. The difference in the kinetics of the interactions between L- and D-cysteine with CdTe QDs led to chiral recognition of these enantiomers. Addition of D-cysteine to CdTe QDs in a basic media caused a green-to-yellow color change, while no color alteration in QDs emission was observed in the presence of L-cysteine after 2 hours. Notably, the QDs used in the proposed assay are free from any labling/modification, which makes the present strategy highly attractive for sensing applications. Furthermore, the presented chiral assay is able to determine the enantiomeric excess (ee) of D-cysteine in the whole range of ee values (from −100% to 100%).
Generation of heritable germline mutations in the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Li Ming , Au Lauren Yun Cook , Douglah Deema , Chong Abigail , White Bradley J. , Ferree Patrick M. , Akbari Omar S.
Published: April 2017

The revolutionary RNA-guided endonuclease CRISPR/Cas9 system has proven to be a powerful tool for gene editing in a plethora of organisms. Here, utilizing this system we developed an efficient protocol for the generation of heritable germline mutations in the parasitoid jewel wasp, Nasonia vitripennis, a rising insect model organism for the study of evolution, development of axis pattern formation, venom production, haplo-diploid sex determination, and host–symbiont interactions. To establish CRISPR-directed gene editing in N. vitripennis, we targeted a conserved eye pigmentation gene cinnabar, generating several independent heritable germline mutations in this gene. Briefly, to generate these mutants, we developed a protocol to efficiently collect N. vitripennis eggs from a parasitized flesh fly pupa, Sarcophaga bullata, inject these eggs with Cas9/guide RNA mixtures, and transfer injected eggs back into the host to continue development. We also describe a flow for screening mutants and establishing stable mutant strains through genetic crosses. Overall, our results demonstrate that the CRISPR/Cas9 system is a powerful tool for genome manipulation in N. vitripennis, with strong potential for expansion to target critical genes, thus allowing for the investigation of several important biological phenomena in this organism.
Interaction effects of polyfluoroalkyl substances and sex steroid hormones on asthma among children
Authors: Zhou Yang , Hu Li-Wen , Qian Zhengmin , Geiger Sarah Dee , Parrish Katelyn L. , Dharmage Shyamali C. , Campbell Brittany , Roponen Marjut , Jalava Pasi , Hirvonen Maija-Riitta , Heinrich Joachim , Zeng Xiao-Wen , Yang Bo-Yi , Qin Xiao-Di , Lee Yungling Leo , Dong Guang-Hui
Published: April 2017

To evaluate the interactions between polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and reproductive hormones and associated asthma, a total of 231 asthmatic and 225 non-asthmatic adolescents were selected from northern Taiwan in the Genetic and Biomarkers study for Childhood Asthma from 2009–2010. The interaction between PFASs and reproductive hormones on asthma was analyzed with a two-level binary logistic regression model. The results showed that, among asthmatics, PFASs were positively associated with estradiol levels and negatively associated with testosterone levels. However, only significant association was identified for PFNA and estradiol in control group. After controlling for hormone levels, associations between PFAS exposure and asthma were consistently stronger among children with higher than lower estradiol, with odds ratios (OR) for asthma ranging from 1.25 for PFOS (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.90, 1.72) to 4.01 for PFDA (95% CI: 1.46, 11.06) among boys and 1.25 for PFOS (95% CI: 0.84, 1.86) to 4.16 for PFNA (95% CI: 1.36, 12.73) among girls. Notably, the interactions between estradiol and PFASs were significant for PFOS (p = 0.026) and PFNA (p = 0.043) among girls. However, testosterone significantly attenuated the association between PFOS and asthma across sex. In conclusions, our findings suggested that reproductive hormones amplify the association between PFASs and asthma among adolescents.
Recent advances in synthesis, properties, and applications of phosphorene
Authors: Akhtar Meysam , Anderson George , Zhao Rong , Alruqi Adel , Mroczkowska Joanna E. , Sumanasekera Gamini , Jasinski Jacek B.
Published: April 2017

Since its first fabrication by exfoliation in 2014, phosphorene has been the focus of rapidly expanding research activities. The number of phosphorene publications has been increasing at a rate exceeding that of other two-dimensional materials. This tremendous level of excitement arises from the unique properties of phosphorene, including its puckered layer structure. With its widely tunable band gap, strong in-plane anisotropy, and high carrier mobility, phosphorene is at the center of numerous fundamental studies and applications spanning from electronic, optoelectronic, and spintronic devices to sensors, actuators, and thermoelectrics to energy conversion, and storage devices. Here, we review the most significant recent studies in the field of phosphorene research and technology. Our focus is on the synthesis and layer number determination, anisotropic properties, tuning of the band gap and related properties, strain engineering, and applications in electronics, thermoelectrics, and energy storage. The current needs and likely future research directions for phosphorene are also discussed.
Frequency-dependent oscillatory neural profiles during imitation
Authors: Sugata Hisato , Hirata Masayuki , Tamura Yuichi , Onishi Hisao , Goto Tetsu , Araki Toshihiko , Yorifuji Shiro
Published: April 2017

Imitation is a complex process that includes higher-order cognitive and motor function. This process requires an observation-execution matching system that transforms an observed action into an identical movement. Although the low-gamma band is thought to reflect higher cognitive processes, no studies have focused on it. Here, we used magnetoencephalography (MEG) to examine the neural oscillatory changes including the low-gamma band during imitation. Twelve healthy, right-handed participants performed a finger task consisting of four conditions (imitation, execution, observation, and rest). During the imitation and execution conditions, significant event-related desynchronizations (ERDs) were observed at the left frontal, central, and parietal MEG sensors in the alpha, beta, and low-gamma bands. Functional connectivity analysis at the sensor level revealed an imitation-related connectivity between a group of frontal sensors and a group of parietal sensors in the low-gamma band. Furthermore, source reconstruction with synthetic aperture magnetometry showed significant ERDs in the low-gamma band in the left sensorimotor area and the middle frontal gyrus (MFG) during the imitation condition when compared with the other three conditions. Our results suggest that the oscillatory neural activities of the low-gamma band at the sensorimotor area and MFG play an important role in the observation-execution matching system related to imitation.
Inhibition of melanogenesis by jineol from Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans via MAP-Kinase mediated MITF downregulation and the proteasomal degradation of tyrosinase
Authors: Alam Md Badrul , Bajpai Vivek K. , Lee JungIn , Zhao Peijun , Byeon Jung-Hee , Ra Jeong-Sic , Majumder Rajib , Lee Jong Sung , Yoon Jung-In , Rather Irfan A. , Park Yong-Ha , Kim Kangmin , Na MinKyun , Lee Sang-Han
Published: April 2017

In this study, the authors investigated the anti-melanogenic effects of 3,8-dihydroxyquinoline (jineol) isolated from Scolopendra subspinipes mutilans, the mechanisms responsible for its inhibition of melanogenesis in melan-a cells, and its antioxidant efficacy. Mushroom tyrosinase activities and melanin contents were determined in melan-a cells, and the protein and mRNA levels of MITF, tyrosinase, TYRP-1, and TYRP-2 were assessed. Jineol exhibited significant, concentration-dependent antioxidant effects as determined by DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP assays. Jineol significantly inhibited mushroom tyrosinase activity by functioning as an uncompetitive inhibitor, and markedly inhibited melanin production and intracellular tyrosinase activity in melan-a cells. In addition, jineol abolished the expressions of tyrosinase, TYRP-1, TYRP-2, and MITF, thereby blocking melanin production and interfering with the phosphorylations of ERK1/2 and p38. Furthermore, specific inhibitors of ERK1/2 and p38 prevented melanogenesis inhibition by jineol, and the proteasome inhibitor (MG-132) prevented jineol-induced reductions in cellular tyrosinase levels. Taken together, jineol was found to stimulate MAP-kinase (ERK1/2 and p38) phosphorylation and the proteolytic degradation pathway, which led to the degradations of MITF and tyrosinase, and to suppress the productions of melanin.
Functional Polymorphisms in Dopaminergic Genes Modulate Neurobehavioral and Neurophysiological Consequences of Sleep Deprivation
Authors: Holst Sebastian C. , Müller Thomas , Valomon Amandine , Seebauer Britta , Berger Wolfgang , Landolt Hans-Peter
Published: April 2017

Sleep deprivation impairs cognitive performance and reliably alters brain activation in wakefulness and sleep. Nevertheless, the molecular regulators of prolonged wakefulness remain poorly understood. Evidence from genetic, behavioral, pharmacologic and imaging studies suggest that dopaminergic signaling contributes to the behavioral and electroencephalographic (EEG) consequences of sleep loss, although direct human evidence thereof is missing. We tested whether dopamine neurotransmission regulate sustained attention and evolution of EEG power during prolonged wakefulness. Here, we studied the effects of functional genetic variation in the dopamine transporter (DAT1) and the dopamine D2receptor (DRD2) genes, on psychomotor performance and standardized waking EEG oscillations during 40 hours of wakefulness in 64 to 82 healthy volunteers. Sleep deprivation consistently enhanced sleepiness, lapses of attention and the theta-to-alpha power ratio (TAR) in the waking EEG. Importantly,DAT1andDRD2genotypes distinctly modulated sleep loss-induced changes in subjective sleepiness, PVT lapses and TAR, according to inverted U-shaped relationships. Together, the data suggest that genetically determined differences inDAT1andDRD2expression modulate functional consequences of sleep deprivation, supporting the hypothesis that striato-thalamo-cortical dopaminergic pathways modulate the neurobehavioral and neurophysiological consequences of sleep loss in humans.
Continuous-variable quantum authentication of physical unclonable keys
Authors: Nikolopoulos Georgios M. , Diamanti Eleni
Published: April 2017

We propose a scheme for authentication of physical keys that are materialized by optical multiple-scattering media. The authentication relies on the optical response of the key when probed by randomly selected coherent states of light, and the use of standard wavefront-shaping techniques that direct the scattered photons coherently to a specific target mode at the output. The quadratures of the electromagnetic field of the scattered light at the target mode are analysed using a homodyne detection scheme, and the acceptance or rejection of the key is decided upon the outcomes of the measurements. The proposed scheme can be implemented with current technology and offers collision resistance and robustness against key cloning.
Leaf N and P stoichiometry in relation to leaf shape and plant size for Quercus acutissima provenances across China
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yang Xiuqing , Wang Jingyuan , Wang G. Geoff , Yu Mukui , Wu Tonggui
Published: April 2017

Plant stoichiometry in relation to the structure and function of biological systems has been investigated at multiple scales. However, few studies have focused on the roles of stoichiometry for a given species. In this study, we determined leaf N and P stoichiometry, leaf shape and plant size in threeQuercus acutissimacommon gardens with different climatic and site conditions. In the three common gardens, leaf N and P stoichiometry was significantly correlated with leaf shape and plant size, suggesting that leaf N and P stoichiometry affects the morphological performance of the leaves and stem. The scaling slopes of the relationships between leaf N and P stoichiometry and leaf shape ranged from |0.12| to |1.00|, while the slopes of the relationships between leaf N and P stoichiometry and plant size ranged from |0.95| to |2.66|. These results suggest that non-functional tissues (stem) are more susceptible to leaf nutrition than functional tissues (leaves), and leaf stoichiometry is more important in the construction of non-functional tissues (stem). Between the northernmost and southernmost common gardens, leaf N and leaf width (W), N:P and stem height (H), and N:P and stem diameter (D) showed significant covariations, which indicates that leaf N and W, N:P and plant size exhibit similar plastic responses to environmental change.
Mechanistic insights into ectodomain shedding: susceptibility of CADM1 adhesion molecule is determined by alternative splicing and O-glycosylation
Authors: Shirakabe Kyoko , Omura Takuya , Shibagaki Yoshio , Mihara Emiko , Homma Keiichi , Kato Yukinari , Yoshimura Akihiko , Murakami Yoshinori , Takagi Junichi , Hattori Seisuke , Ogawa Yoshihiro
Published: April 2017

Ectodomain shedding (shedding) is a post-translational modification, which liberates the extracellular domain of membrane proteins through juxtamembrane processing executed mainly by the ADAM (a disintegrin and metalloprotease) family of metalloproteases. Because shedding alters characteristics of cells in a rapid and irreversible manner, it should be strictly regulated. However, the molecular mechanisms determining membrane protein susceptibility to shedding (shedding susceptibility) are largely unknown. Here we report that alternative splicing can give rise to both shedding-susceptible and shedding-resistant CADM1 (cell adhesion molecule 1) variant proteins. We further show that O-glycans adjacent to the shedding cleavage site interfere with CADM1 shedding, and the only 33-bp alternative exon confers shedding susceptibility to CADM1 by inserting five non-glycosylatable amino acids between interfering O-glycans and the shedding cleavage site. These results demonstrate that shedding susceptibility of membrane protein can be determined at two different levels of its biosynthesis pathway, alternative splicing and O-glycosylation.
Multi-scale comparison of the fine particle removal capacity of urban forests and wetlands
Authors: Zhang Zhenming , Liu Jiakai , Wu Yanan , Yan Guoxin , Zhu Lijuan , Yu Xinxiao
Published: April 2017

As fine particle (FP) pollution is harmful to humans, previous studies have focused on the mechanisms of FP removal by forests. The current study aims to compare the FP removal capacities of urban forests and wetlands on the leaf, canopy, and landscape scales. Water washing and scanning electron microscopy are used to calculate particle accumulation on leaves, and models are used to estimate vegetation collection, sedimentation, and dry deposition. Results showed that, on the leaf scale, forest species are able to accumulate more FP on their leaf surface than aquatic species in wetlands. On the canopy scale, horizontal vegetation collection is the major process involved in FP removal, and the contribution of vertical sedimentation/emission can be ignored. Coniferous tree species also showed stronger FP collection ability than broadleaf species. In the landscape scale, deposition on the forest occurs to a greater extent than that on wetlands, and dry deposition is the major process of FP removal on rain-free days. In conclusion, when planning an urban green system, planting an urban forest should be the first option for FP mitigation.
Mycobacterium llatzerense, a waterborne Mycobacterium, that resists phagocytosis by Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Delafont Vincent , Samba-Louaka Ascel , Cambau Emmanuelle , Bouchon Didier , Moulin Laurent , Héchard Yann
Published: April 2017

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental bacteria increasingly associated to public health problems. In water systems, free-living amoebae (FLA) feed on bacteria by phagocytosis, but several bacteria, including many NTM, are resistant to this predation. Thus, FLA can be seen as a training ground for pathogenic bacteria. Mycobacterium llatzerense was previously described as frequently associated with FLA in a drinking water network. The present study aimed to characterize the interactions between M. llatzerense and FLA. M. llatzerense was internalised by phagocytosis and featured lipid inclusions, suggesting a subversion of host resources. Moreover, M. llatzerense survived and even multiplied in presence of A. castellanii. Using a genomic-based comparative approach, twelve genes involved in phagocytosis interference, described in M. tuberculosis, were identified in the M. llatzerense genome sequenced in this study. Transcriptomic analyses showed that ten genes were significantly upregulated during the first hours of the infection, which could partly explain M. llatzerense resistance. Additionally, M. llatzerense was shown to actively inhibit phagosome acidification. In conclusion, M. llatzerense presents a high degree of resistance to phagocytosis, likely explaining its frequent occurrence within FLA in drinking water networks. It underscores that NTM should be carefully monitored in water networks to prevent human health concerns.
Genetic and phenotypic characteristics of four Chinese families with fundus albipunctatus
Authors: Yang Guoxing , Liu Zhiqiang , Xie Shipeng , Li Chengquan , Lv Lina , Zhang Minglian , Zhao Jialiang
Published: April 2017

Fundus albipunctatus (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive form of stationary night blindness characterized by the presence of white or white-yellow dots in the perimacular area and the periphery of the retina, with or without macular involvement. In this study, we examined four Chinese families with FA. Patients were given complete ophthalmic examinations, and blood samples were collected for DNA extraction. Three genes, RDH5, RLBP1 and RPE65, were screened by direct sequencing. Mutations in RDH5 were identified in three families and mutations in RPE65 were identified in one family. This is the second reported case of FA caused by mutations in RPE65.
Biomimetic synthesis of Ag3PO4-NPs/Cu-NWs with visible-light-enhanced photocatalytic activity for degradation of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin
Authors: Liu Yuling , Wu Qingsheng , Zhao Yaping
Published: April 2017

Cu-NWs/Ag3PO4-NPs can be used as photocatalysts under visible light irradiation and have high photocatalytic performance for degradation of CPFX.
Biocompatible terpolyesters containing polyhydroxyalkanoate and sebacic acid structural segments – synthesis and characterization
Authors: Kwiecień Michał , Kwiecień Iwona , Radecka Iza , Kannappan Vinodh , Morris Mark R. , Adamus Grażyna
Published: April 2017

A convenient synthetic route of poly(3HB-co-3HH-co-SEB) terpolyesters has been reported.
Effects of triphala and guggul aqueous extracts on inhibition of protein fibrillation and dissolution of preformed fibrils
Authors: Save S. N. , Choudhary S.
Published: April 2017

Herbal preparations such as triphala and guggul aqueous extracts have ability to inhibit protein fibrillation which is known to be an important process responsible for many neurodegenerative and other diseases.
A real-time fluorescence turn-on assay for acetylcholinesterase activity based on the controlled release of a perylene probe from MnO2 nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Yunyi , Zhang Cuiyun , Chen Jian , Li Yongxin , Yang Meiding , Zhou Huipeng , Shahzad Sohail Anjum , Qi Hong , Yu Cong , Jiang Shichun
Published: April 2017

A real-time perylene probe fluorescence turn-on method for the detection of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity through the selective decomposition of MnO2 nanosheets.
In situ derivatization for double confirmation of 2C–C in oral fluids by ion mobility spectrometry
Authors: Torres Juan , Armenta Sergio , Esteve-Turrillas Francesc A. , de la Guardia Miguel
Published: April 2017

In situ derivatization for double confirmation of 2C–C in oral fluids by ion mobility spectrometry.
Rapid screening of pancreatic lipase inhibitors from Monascus-fermented rice by ultrafiltration liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Fang Yu-Xiang , Song Hui-Peng , Liang Jin-Xiu , Li Ping , Yang Hua
Published: April 2017

Ultrafiltration LC-MS, affinity-guided isolation and molecular docking were integrated into one strategy to discover bioactive compounds from functional foods.
The scaffold microenvironment for stem cell based bone tissue engineering
Authors: Hao Zhichao , Song Zhenhua , Huang Jun , Huang Keqing , Panetta Amanda , Gu Zhipeng , Wu Jun
Published: April 2017

Bone tissue engineering uses the principles and methods of engineering and life sciences to study bone structure, function and growth mechanism for the purposes of repairing, maintaining and improving damaged bone tissue.
C3N4 anchored ZIF 8 composites: photo-regenerable, high capacity sorbents as adsorptive photocatalysts for the effective removal of tetracycline from water
Authors: Panneri Suyana , Thomas Minju , Ganguly Priyanka , Nair Balagopal N. , Mohamed A. Peer , Warrier K. G. K. , Hareesh U. S.
Published: April 2017

C3N4–ZIF-8 porous architectures are developed for the efficient adsorption and sunlight induced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline.
Palladium complexes of ferrocene-based phosphine ligands as redox-switchable catalysts in Buchwald–Hartwig cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Feyrer Alexander , Breher Frank
Published: April 2017

Redox-switchable catalysis: Palladium(ii) complexes of two differently substituted [1]phosphaferrocenophanes FcPR (R = Mes, biaryl) and of diphenylferrocenyl phosphine Ph2PFc were applied in redox-switchable Buchwald–Hartwig cross-coupling reactions.
Enhanced thermal properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride) composites with ultrathin nanosheets of MXene
Authors: Cao Yong , Deng Qihuang , Liu Zhiduo , Shen Dianyu , Wang Ting , Huang Qing , Du Shiyu , Jiang Nan , Lin Cheng-Te , Yu Jinhong
Published: April 2017

We report a facile method to delaminate MXenes and prepare poly(vinylidene fluoride)/MXene composites with excellent thermal properties.
An azo-phenol derivative probe: colorimetric and “turn-on” fluorescent detection of copper(ii) ions and pH value in aqueous solution
Authors: Li Yanchun , Han Xiaojun , Song Yan
Published: April 2017

The optical properties of a novel, rhodamine-based derivative, synthesized by reacting rhodaminehydrazide and an azo-phenol derivative in ethanol, were investigated in ethanol–water solution.
Triply-bonded indiumphosphorus molecules: theoretical designs and characterization
Authors: Lu Jia-Syun , Yang Ming-Chung , Su Ming-Der
Published: April 2017

The theoretical results indicate the connected substituents (R) play a decisive role in determining both the kinetic and the thermodynamic stability of triple-bonded RInPR molecules.
A quantum chemical study on ˙Cl-initiated atmospheric degradation of acrylonitrile
Authors: Sun Jingyu , Shao Youxiang , Wu Wenzhong , Tang Yizhen , Zhang Yunju , Hu Yiming , Liu Jiangyan , Yi Huiyang , Chen Fang , Cheng Yinfang
Published: April 2017

Degradation of acrylonitrile (CH2CHCN) by reaction with atomic chlorine was studied using quantum chemical methods.
Facile synthesis of spinel Cu1.5Mn1.5O4 microspheres with high activity for the catalytic combustion of diesel soot
Authors: Zhao H. , Zhou X. X. , Pan L. Y. , Wang M. , Chen H. R. , Shi J. L.
Published: April 2017

Optimized Cu1.5Mn1.5O4 microspheres, possessing abundant Oads and active Cu+–Mn4+ sites for NO2 formation, exhibit excellent activity for soot combustion.
Enhanced magnetization in unusual carbon-nanotube/carbon-foam cm-scale hybrid-buckypaper films with high α-Fe filling-ratio
Authors: Zhu J. , Liu D. , Wang J. , Yi H. , Wang S. , Wen J. , Willis M. A. C. , Hou Y. , Borowiec J. , Boi F. S.
Published: April 2017

We report the synthesis of novel and unusual α-Fe-filled carbon nanotube (CNT)/carbon foam (CFM) hybrid-buckypaper films via pyrolysis of ferrocene/dichlorobenzene mixtures.
Base catalysed N-functionalisation of boroxazolidones
Authors: Raunio J. , Mannoja J. , Nguyen T. , Ahmad N. , Kemppainen N. M. , Franzén R. G. , Kandhavelu M. , Candeias N. R.
Published: April 2017

A method for the condensation of boroxazolidones derived froml-valine with aromatic aldehydes, catalysed by 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene was developed.
Versatile telluracycle synthesis via the sequential electrophilic telluration of C(sp2)–Zn and C(sp2)–H bonds
Authors: Wu Bin , Melvina Melvina , Wu Xiangyang , Lee Yeow Edwin Kok , Yoshikai Naohiko
Published: April 2017

Twofold electrophilic C–Te bond formation has opened access to a wide variety of Te-containing heteroaromatic systems.
Enhanced electrocatalytic performance of palladium nanoparticles with high energy surfaces in formic acid oxidation
Authors: Klinkova Anna , De Luna Phil , Sargent Edward H. , Kumacheva Eugenia , Cherepanov Pavel V.
Published: April 2017

Direct formic acid fuel cells hold great potential for utilizing formic acid as an energy source via formic acid oxidation (FAO).
Important role of ancillary ligand in the emission behaviours of blue-emitting heteroleptic Ir(iii) complexes
Authors: Cho Yang-Jin , Kim So-Yoen , Kim Jin-Hyoung , Crandell Douglas W. , Baik Mu-Hyun , Lee Jiwon , Kim Chul Hoon , Son Ho-Jin , Han Won-Sik , Kang Sang Ook
Published: April 2017

A series of heteroleptic Ir(iii) complexes were prepared, and their emission behaviors depending on the ancillary ligands were systematically investigated.
Speech Rate Normalization and Phonemic Boundary Perception in Cochlear-Implant Users
Authors: Jaekel Brittany N. , Newman Rochelle S. , Goupell Matthew J.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Normal-hearing (NH) listeners rate normalize, temporarily remapping phonemic category boundaries to account for a talker's speech rate. It is unknown if adults who use auditory prostheses called cochlear implants (CI) can rate normalize, as CIs transmit degraded speech signals to the auditory nerve. Ineffective adjustment to rate information could explain some of the variability in this population's speech perception outcomes.

Method

Phonemes with manipulated voice-onset-time (VOT) durations were embedded in sentences with different speech rates. Twenty-three CI and 29 NH participants performed a phoneme identification task. NH participants heard the same unprocessed stimuli as the CI participants or stimuli degraded by a sine vocoder, simulating aspects of CI processing.

Results

CI participants showed larger rate normalization effects (6.6 ms) than the NH participants (3.7 ms) and had shallower (less reliable) category boundary slopes. NH participants showed similarly shallow slopes when presented acoustically degraded vocoded signals, but an equal or smaller rate effect in response to reductions in available spectral and temporal information.

Conclusion

CI participants can rate normalize, despite their degraded speech input, and show a larger rate effect compared to NH participants. CI participants may particularly rely on rate normalization to better maintain perceptual constancy of the speech signal.
Speech Inconsistency in Children With Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Language Impairment, and Speech Delay: Depends on the Stimuli
Authors: Iuzzini-Seigel Jenya , Hogan Tiffany P. , Green Jordan R.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The current research sought to determine (a) if speech inconsistency is a core feature of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) or if it is driven by comorbid language impairment that affects a large subset of children with CAS and (b) if speech inconsistency is a sensitive and specific diagnostic marker that can differentiate between CAS and speech delay.

Method

Participants included 48 children ranging between 4;7 to 17;8 (years;months) with CAS (
n
= 10), CAS + language impairment (
n
= 10), speech delay (
n
= 10), language impairment (
n
= 9), or typical development (
n
= 9). Speech inconsistency was assessed at phonemic and token-to-token levels using a variety of stimuli.

Results

Children with CAS and CAS + language impairment performed equivalently on all inconsistency assessments. Children with language impairment evidenced high levels of speech inconsistency on the phrase “buy Bobby a puppy.” Token-to-token inconsistency of monosyllabic words and the phrase “buy Bobby a puppy” was sensitive and specific in differentiating children with CAS and speech delay, whereas inconsistency calculated on other stimuli (e.g., multisyllabic words) was less efficacious in differentiating between these disorders.

Conclusions

Speech inconsistency is a core feature of CAS and is efficacious in differentiating between children with CAS and speech delay; however, sensitivity and specificity are stimuli dependent.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Preterm Infants Treated with Oral Paracetamol Versus Ibuprofen for Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Authors: Eras Zeynep , Uras Nurdan , Canpolat Fuat , Erdeve Omer , Oguz Serife , Oncel Mehmet
Published: April 2017

Objective This study aims to determine the effects of paracetamol versus ibuprofen treatment given to preterm infants for the pharmacological closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 to 24 months' corrected age.

Method A follow-up study was conducted to evaluate the neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm infants (gestational age ≤ 30 weeks) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial comparing oral paracetamol versus oral ibuprofen for the closure of PDA. The developmental assessment was done by using “Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Second Edition” at 18 to 24 months' corrected age.

Results A total of 80 infants completed the trial protocol. Of the 75 infants eligible for follow-up, 61 infants (30 in the paracetamol group and 31 in the ibuprofen group) were evaluated. There was no significant difference in neurodevelopmental outcomes between the two groups.

Conclusion The neurodevelopmental outcomes did not differ among the preterm infants who receive either paracetamol or ibuprofen at 18 to 24 months' corrected age.
Influence of Cortical Comminution and Intra-articular Involvement in Distal Radius Fractures on Clinical Outcome: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Wadsten Mats , Buttazzoni Gunnar , Sjödén Göran , Sayed-Noor Arkan , Kadum Bakir
Published: April 2017

Aim The purpose of this prospective multicenter study was to test the predictive value of cortical comminution and intra-articular involvement on function and quality of life in distal radius fractures (DRFs) using the Buttazzoni's classification system.

Patients and Methods We studied 406 patients between skeletal maturity and 74 years of age with DRF. Fractures with acceptable radiographic alignment were immobilized with a cast. Fractures with nonacceptable radiographic alignment underwent closed reduction and 4 to 6 weeks cast immobilization. Radiographs were obtained after reduction and at 10 to 14 days. Redisplaced fractures were offered surgical treatment. One-year follow-up included grip strength, range of motion (ROM), quickDASH, EQ-5D (including visual analog scale [VAS] for health status), and VAS pain.

Results We found no statistically significant differences in QuickDASH, EQ-5D questionnaire, EQ-5D health status VAS, and VAS pain among the Buttazzoni classes. However, initial displacement was associated with worse quickDASH score, worse EQ-5D score, reduced grip strength, and reduced ROM. Dorsal comminution was associated with worse quickDASH score, reduced flexion, and reduced pronation–supination ability. Volar comminution predicted loss of extension, while intra-articular involvement was associated with reduced flexion–extension arc and worse EQ-5D score. There was a significant difference in ROM between noncomminuted and comminuted fracture classes.

Conclusion Initial fracture position, type of comminution, and intra-articular involvement influenced the clinical outcome in DRF.
Auswirkungen eines Rumpfstabilisationstrainings bei Masters-Schwimmern
Authors: Esser Margarete
Published: April 2017

Hintergrund Rückenbeschwerden sind ein häufiges Problem im Schwimmsport – vor allem bei Masters-Schwimmern. Ursächlich dafür könnte eine unzureichende Rumpfstabilität sein.

Ziel In dieser Studie soll untersucht werden, ob ein gezieltes Training der Rumpfmuskulatur einen positiven Einfluss auf die Rückensymptomatik der Schwimmer hat und ob sie, nebenbei, dadurch Verbesserungen beim Schwimmen bemerken.

Methode Zwei Gruppen (Masters-Schwimmer und eine Kontrollgruppe) trainierten 8 Wochen lang nach einem angeleiteten Eigenübungsprogramm. Die Veränderungen der Rumpfmuskulatur wurden anhand eines Pre- und Post-Tests dokumentiert. Zusätzliche Angaben der Probanden wurden an beiden Testzeitpunkten und in einem Follow-up nach 6 Monaten erfasst.

Ergebnisse Beide Gruppen zeigten wesentliche Verbesserungen, wobei die bei den Masters insgesamt höher ausfielen. In der Befragung nach 6 Monaten gaben 72,3 % der Teilnehmer eine Verringerung ihrer Rückenbeschwerden an und stellten zusätzliche positiv empfundene Auswirkungen sowohl im Alltag als auch beim Schwimmen fest.

Schlussfolgerung Es wird in dieser Studie gezeigt, dass mit einem 8-wöchigen Eigenübungsprogramm sehr deutliche und nachhaltige Verbesserungen bei allen Probanden, insbesondere bei Masters-Schwimmern, erzielt werden konnten.
Poor Children in Rich Households and Vice Versa: A Blurred Picture or Hidden Realities?
Authors: Roelen Keetie
Published: April 2017

An expanding evidence base suggests that children experiencing monetary and multidimensional poverty are not the same. This article breaks new ground by providing a unique mixed methods investigation of drivers of child poverty mismatch in Ethiopia and Vietnam, considering the role of measurement error and individualistic and structural factors. The analysis capitalises on large-scale secondary quantitative panel data and combines this with purposively collected primary qualitative data in both countries. It finds that factors at the household and structural level can mediate the effects of monetary poverty in terms of multidimensional poverty and vice versa, but that the size and sign of these effects are specific to place and time. The policy mix aiming to reduce all forms of child poverty need to be targeted on the basis of a multidimensional assessment of poverty and reflect the complex and context-specific interactions between determinants of child poverty.
Inline screw feeding vacuum arc thruster
Authors: Kronhaus Igal , Laterza Matteo , Maor Yonatan
Published: April 2017

A new type of micropropulsion device for nanosatellite applications is presented—the inline-screw-feeding vacuum-arc thruster (ISF-VAT). This thruster couples a conventional “triggerless” ignition geometry with a feeding mechanism that maintains a steady state discharge performance. The feeding mechanism implements a screw action on a central cathode rod. At a predetermined rate, a complete and uniform erosion of the cathodes tip is obtained as well as “healing” of the insulator coating. The inline feeding of the cathode forces the arc to emerge on the tip of the cathode, flush with the exit plane of the anode. This enables the plasma plume to efficiently accelerate away from the thruster, eliminating the need for an additional ion acceleration stage. The ISF-VAT feeding mechanism is computer controlled and offers reliable operation of the thruster over a large number of pulses. Characterization of the ISF-VAT performance is presented, conducted on an experimental prototype in the Aerospace Plasma Laboratory, Technion. Measurement results of the mass flow rate, electrical parameters of the discharge, and thrust are presented. Using a Ti cathode at a discharge power of 3 W, a mass flow rate of ≈1.8×10−9 kg/s and a thrust level ≈ 7 μN were measured. More than 106 pulses were demonstrated in a single run, accumulating a total impulse of 0.2 Ns. The thruster prototype dimensions are 15 × 15 × 65 mm3 and are ≈ 60 g in mass.
Subgrid-scale stresses and scalar fluxes constructed by the multi-scale turnover Lagrangian map
Authors: AL-Bairmani Sukaina , Li Yi , Rosales Carlos , Xie Zheng-tong
Published: April 2017

The multi-scale turnover Lagrangian map (MTLM) [C. Rosales and C. Meneveau, “Anomalous scaling and intermittency in three-dimensional synthetic turbulence,” Phys. Rev. E 78, 016313 (2008)] uses nested multi-scale Lagrangian advection of fluid particles to distort a Gaussian velocity field and, as a result, generate non-Gaussian synthetic velocity fields. Passive scalar fields can be generated with the procedure when the fluid particles carry a scalar property [C. Rosales, “Synthetic three-dimensional turbulent passive scalar fields via the minimal Lagrangian map,” Phys. Fluids 23, 075106 (2011)]. The synthetic fields have been shown to possess highly realistic statistics characterizing small scale intermittency, geometrical structures, and vortex dynamics. In this paper, we present a study of the synthetic fields using the filtering approach. This approach, which has not been pursued so far, provides insights on the potential applications of the synthetic fields in large eddy simulations and subgrid-scale (SGS) modelling. The MTLM method is first generalized to model scalar fields produced by an imposed linear mean profile. We then calculate the subgrid-scale stress, SGS scalar flux, SGS scalar variance, as well as related quantities from the synthetic fields. Comparison with direct numerical simulations (DNSs) shows that the synthetic fields reproduce the probability distributions of the SGS energy and scalar dissipation rather well. Related geometrical statistics also display close agreement with DNS results. The synthetic fields slightly under-estimate the mean SGS energy dissipation and slightly over-predict the mean SGS scalar variance dissipation. In general, the synthetic fields tend to slightly under-estimate the probability of large fluctuations for most quantities we have examined. Small scale anisotropy in the scalar field originated from the imposed mean gradient is captured. The sensitivity of the synthetic fields on the input spectra is assessed by using truncated spectra or model spectra as the input. Analyses show that most of the SGS statistics agree well with those from MTLM fields with DNS spectra as the input. For the mean SGS energy dissipation, some significant deviation is observed. However, it is shown that the deviation can be parametrized by the input energy spectrum, which demonstrates the robustness of the MTLM procedure.
Surface acoustic waves in acoustic superlattice lithium niobate coated with a waveguide layer
Authors: Yang G. Y. , Du J. K. , Huang B. , Jin Y. A. , Xu M. H.
Published: April 2017

The effects of the waveguide layer on the band structure of Rayleigh waves are studied in this work based on a one-dimensional acoustic superlattice lithium niobate substrate coated with a waveguide layer. The present phononic structure is formed by the periodic domain-inverted single crystal that is the Z-cut lithium niobate substrate with a waveguide layer on the upper surface. The plane wave expansion method (PWE) is adopted to determine the band gap behavior of the phononic structure and validated by the finite element method (FEM). The FEM is also used to investigate the transmission of Rayleigh waves in the phononic structure with the interdigital transducers by means of the commercial package COMSOL. The results show that, although there is a homogeneous waveguide layer on the surface, the band gap of Rayleigh waves still exist. It is also found that increasing the thickness of the waveguide layer, the band width narrows and the band structure shifts to lower frequency. The present approach can be taken as an efficient tool in designing of phononic structures with waveguide layer.
Old English mānwrǣce and godwrǣce, with an emendation of Elene 811b
Authors: Getz Robert
Published: April 2017

The  transmitted in line 811b of the Old English poemEleneby Cynewulf has been generally regarded as representing an otherwise unattested adjectivemānweorccomposite ofmān‘crime’ andweorc‘work’. Sinceweorcis unparalleled and unexpected as a second element in an adjectival compound, an alternative explanation of the manuscript reading is proposed here, scribal alteration of an adjective otherwise attested only in the First Cleopatra Glossary, occurring there in the written form . While this adjective is listed under various headword forms in dictionaries, it is probably to be described asmānwrǣce(Anglianmānwrēce), having the same second element as another adjective in which Old English -wrǣcehas often been misunderstood,godwrǣce‘impious’. The origin of -wrǣceis a Germanic verbal adjective in -i-/-ja- derived from the etymon of Old Englishwrecan‘drive’; the original meaning ofmānwrǣcemay thus have been ‘perpetrating crime’. , corresponding to the Anglian form that Cynewulf would have used inElene811b, would have been susceptible to alteration to  by a copyist unfamiliar with the word, as comparable instances of scribal transposition of elements suggest.
Compremos como galegos
Authors: Anderson Ana Maria
Published: April 2017

This work investigates a place of intersection between advertising and politics in Galicia, namely the series of television spots created by the supermarket chain GADIS under the titleVivamos como galegos. Most studies of this series have focused exclusively on the first spot and have argued that the success of the ad is due primarily to the way it makes Galician identity attractive. While agreeing that this factor is important, the present analysis expands on previous studies by analyzing rhetorical devices in and intertextual relationships between five ads in the series to argue that these spots discursively create an imaginary world in which Galician language and culture are timeless and will not be lost. This ideal characteristic responds to a current concern of Galician society, namely, the decreasing use of the regional language among youth. In creating this Galician world, GADIS discursively paints itself as a defender of all things Galician, which has led it to become “a campaña de maior éxito do momento” (Souto 2008, 199).
Language contact in the US Southeast
Authors: Limerick Philip P.
Published: April 2017

This study examines the use of subject pronouns among Spanish speakers in the Southeastern US and explores the incipient stages of language contact through a case study of speakers in Roswell, Georgia, an emergent (recently developing) variety that thus far has rarely been studied in the literature. Sociolinguistic interviews were conducted in Roswell (Wilson 2013) and transcribed to allow for analysis of pronouns and factors that may influence subject expression (e.g. person/number) as well as social variables (e.g. length of residency). Results indicate an overall pronoun rate of 21%, similar to that of Mainland newcomers in New York (Otheguy, Zentella, and Livert 2007). However, results from the multivariate analysis suggest that pronoun usage in Roswell diverges from these communities, with differential effects observed for factors such as Coreferentiality Index (subject continuity). This analysis of subject expression reveals an intermediate stage of language shift in this particular community.
A case for an integrated approach to the mediation of national literature
Authors: Asscher Omri
Published: April 2017

The last years have seen a rise in the study of translation as an ideologically-implicated activity within the context of power relations, as well as in translation research from a sociologically-oriented frame of reference. In this article, I will point to a methodological consideration which draws from both of these perspectives, and could be useful for the study of the ideological mediation of national literature through translation. My suggestion is to systematically integrate findings from relatively separate yet complementing discursive areas of culture, located in the publishing, journalistic and academic fields, in order to better grasp the scope and interrelatedness of the phenomena of ideological mediation. As a case study, I examine the mediation of Hebrew literature in the U.S. in the decade following the 1967 Six-Day War, and demonstrate a protective trend meant to create a less critical portrayal, literary and otherwise, of Israeli society and history for the (Jewish-)American audience. I then offer preliminary findings from a recent, quite opposite trend in the mediation of Hebrew literature in the U.S. in the 2000s.