bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A probabilistic risk assessment for the Kirtland's warbler potentially exposed to chlorpyrifos and malathion during the breeding season and migration
Authors: Moore Dwayne RJ , Priest Colleen D , Olson Adric D , Teed R Scott
Published: November 2017

Two organophosphate pesticides, chlorpyrifos and malathion, are currently undergoing reregistration in the United States and were recently used by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as case studies to develop a national procedure for evaluating risks to endangered species. One of the endangered bird species considered by the USEPA was the Kirtland's warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii). The Kirtland's warbler is an endangered migratory species that nests exclusively in young jack pine stands in Michigan and Wisconsin, and winters in the Bahamas. We developed probabilistic models to assess the risks of chlorpyrifos and malathion to Kirtland's warblers during the breeding season and the spring and fall migrations. The breeding area model simulates acute and chronic exposure and risk to each of 10 000 birds over a 60-d period following initial pesticide application. The model is highly species specific with regard to the foraging behavior of Kirtland's warblers during the breeding season. We simulated the maximum application rate and number of applications allowed on the labels for representative use patterns that could be found within 3 km of the breeding areas of Kirtland's warbler. The migration model simulates 10 000 birds during the course of their 12- to 23-d migration between their breeding area and the Bahamas. The model takes advantage of more than a century of observations of when, where, and for how long Kirtland's warblers forage in different habitats during the course of their migration. The data indicate that warblers only infrequently stop over in habitats that could be treated with chlorpyrifos and malathion. The breeding area and migration models resulted in predictions of very low acute and chronic risk for both pesticides to Kirtland's warblers. These results were expected, given that field observations indicate that the Kirtland's warbler has dramatically increased in abundance in recent decades. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2018;14:252–269. © 2017 SETAC

Key Points

Probabilistic exposure models were developed to assess the risks of chlorpyrifos and malathion to Kirtland's warblers during the breeding season and during spring and fall migrations. The migration model simulated birds during their 13- to 23-d migrations, and the breeding area model simulated birds for a 60-d period following pesticide application in proximity to their breeding habitats. Using realistic and species-specific models and inputs resulted in predictions of very low acute and chronic risk of chlorpyrifos and malathion to Kirtland's warblers. These results were expected, given that the Kirtland's warbler has dramatically increased in abundance in recent decades despite widespread usage of chlorpyrifos and malathion.
Potential Applications of Cucurbit[n]urils Inclusion Complexes in Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Robinson‐Duggon José , Pérez‐Mora Francisco , Dibona‐Villanueva Luciano , Fuentealba Denis
Published: November 2017

Cucurbit[n]urils (CB[n]s) have emerged as potential candidates for drug delivery in several areas due to their strong binding interactions and low toxicity. More recently, their benefits for a type of cancer treatment termed Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) have been recognized. The outcomes of this therapy rely on better drug delivery strategies and improving overall photoactivity of the drugs, which is where CB[n]s could have a strong impact. The effects of these molecular containers on photoactivity are discussed and new interesting work is highlighted.
Biocompatibility and immunogenicity of elastin‐like recombinamer biomaterials in mouse models
Authors: Changi K. , Bosnjak B. , Gonzalez‐Obeso C. , Kluger R. , Rodríguez‐Cabello J. C. , Hoffmann O. , Epstein M. M.
Published: November 2017

Novel thermo‐sensitive elastin‐like recombinamers (ELRs) containing bioactive molecules were created for use as a biomimetic biomaterial for tissue regeneration. For effective use for in vivo applications, it is essential to ensure that they do not induce adverse inflammatory, immune, or allergic responses that inhibit tissue repair. Therefore, we sought to establish a pre‐clinical approach to evaluate biocompatibility in experimental mice using ELRs as a prototype biomaterial. First, we measured in vitro proliferation and cytokine production from BALB/c and C57BL/6 mouse splenocytes incubated with ELRs. Second, we used a rapid, high throughput in vivo approach in which inflammatory cells and cytokines were measured following an intraperitoneal implantation. Lastly, a subchronic in vivo approach was used in which ELRs or positive controls were subcutaneously implanted and the implantation sites were assessed for inflammation and gene expression. We found that ELRs induced mild inflammation and minimal fibrosis compared to the intense response to Vitoss. Additionally, implantation increased antigen‐specific antibody titers for both groups and gene expression profiling of the implantation sites revealed the upregulation of inflammation, fibrosis, and wound healing‐related genes in ELR and positive control‐implanted mice compared to sham controls. These data demonstrate that ELRs appear safe for use in tissue engineering. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 924–934, 2018.
Vertebral Fractures After Discontinuation of Denosumab: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Randomized Placebo-Controlled FREEDOM Trial and Its Extension
Authors: Cummings Steven R , Ferrari Serge , Eastell Richard , Gilchrist Nigel , Jensen Jens-Erik Beck , McClung Michael , Roux Christian , Törring Ove , Valter Ivo , Wang Andrea T , Brown Jacques P
Published: November 2017

Denosumab reduces bone resorption and vertebral and nonvertebral fracture risk. Denosumab discontinuation increases bone turnover markers 3 months after a scheduled dose is omitted, reaching above-baseline levels by 6 months, and decreases bone mineral density (BMD) to baseline levels by 12 months. We analyzed the risk of new or worsening vertebral fractures, especially multiple vertebral fractures, in participants who discontinued denosumab during the FREEDOM study or its Extension. Participants received ≥2 doses of denosumab or placebo Q6M, discontinued treatment, and stayed in the study ≥7 months after the last dose. Of 1001 participants who discontinued denosumab during FREEDOM or Extension, the vertebral fracture rate increased from 1.2 per 100 participant-years during the on-treatment period to 7.1, similar to participants who received and then discontinued placebo (n = 470; 8.5 per 100 participant-years). Among participants with ≥1 off-treatment vertebral fracture, the proportion with multiple (>1) was larger among those who discontinued denosumab (60.7%) than placebo (38.7%; p = 0.049), corresponding to a 3.4% and 2.2% risk of multiple vertebral fractures, respectively. The odds (95% confidence interval) of developing multiple vertebral fractures after stopping denosumab were 3.9 (2.1–7. 2) times higher in those with prior vertebral fractures, sustained before or during treatment, than those without, and 1.6 (1.3–1.9) times higher with each additional year of off-treatment follow-up; among participants with available off-treatment total hip (TH) BMD measurements, the odds were 1.2 (1.1–1.3) times higher per 1% annualized TH BMD loss. The rates (per 100 participant-years) of nonvertebral fractures during the off-treatment period were similar (2.8, denosumab; 3.8, placebo). The vertebral fracture rate increased upon denosumab discontinuation to the level observed in untreated participants. A majority of participants who sustained a vertebral fracture after discontinuing denosumab had multiple vertebral fractures, with greatest risk in participants with a prior vertebral fracture. Therefore, patients who discontinue denosumab should rapidly transition to an alternative antiresorptive treatment. Clinicaltrails.gov: NCT00089791 (FREEDOM) and NCT00523341 (Extension). © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Host–guest interactions between octa acid and cations/nucleobases
Authors: Chakraborty Debdutta , Chattaraj Pratim Kumar
Published: November 2017

The nature of host–guest interaction in between octa acid cavitand (OA) and some representative cationic guests (Li+, Na+, K+, Be+2, Mg+2, Ca+2, Li3O+, Na3O+, K3O+) as well as heterocyclic moieties like [adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), thymine (T), uracil (U), and tetrathiafulvalene (TTF)] has been examined with the aid of density functional theory (DFT)‐based computations. Thermochemical results indicate that all the guests bind with OA in a thermodynamically favorable fashion at 298.15 K temperature and one atmospheric pressure. OA exhibits high selectivity in binding the lighter cations/metal cluster cations as compared to the heavier congeners along each given series. Moreover, OA exhibits enhanced affinity as well as selectivity in binding A/G/TTF molecules as compared to C/T/U. Noncovalent interaction and energy decomposition analyses reveal that in addition to the van der Waals interaction, significant contribution from electrostatic as well as orbital interactions dictate the outcome in all the host–guest complexes. Time dependent DFT calculations have been carried out to assess the role of the guests in tuning the electronic properties as well as absorption spectrum of OA. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biomechanical investigation of four different fixation techniques in sacrum Denis type II fracture with low bone mineral density
Authors: Acklin Yves P. , Zderic Ivan , Richards Robert G. , Schmitz Paul , Gueorguiev Boyko , Grechenig Stephan
Published: November 2017

With increasing life expectancy, fragility fractures of the pelvic ring are seen more frequently. Although their osteosynthesis can be very challenging, specific biomechanical studies for investigation of the fixation stability are still lacking. The aim of this study was to biomechanically evaluate four different fixation methods for sacrum Denis type II fractures in osteoporotic bone. Unstable Denis type II vertical sacrum fractures were created in 16 human pelves. Their osteosynthesis was performed with one sacro‐iliac screw, posterior sacral plating, triangular fixation, or spino‐pelvic fixation. For that purpose, each pelvis was randomly assigned to two paired groups for treatment with either SI‐screw/posterior sacral plating or triangular fixation/spino‐pelvic fixation. Each hemi‐pelvis was cyclically tested under progressively increasing axial compression. Relative interfragmentary movements were investigated via optical motion tracking analysis. Axial stiffness of triangular fixation was significantly higher versus posterior sacral plating and spino‐pelvic fixation (p ≤ 0.022), but not significantly different in comparison to SI‐screw fixation (p = 0.337). Cycles to 2, 3, 5, and 8 mm fracture displacement, as well as to 3°, 5°, and 8° gap angle at the fracture site were significantly higher for triangular fixation compared to all other groups (p ≤ 0.041). Main failure mode for all osteosynthesis techniques was screw cutting through the bone, leading loss of fixation stability. From a biomechanical point of view, triangular fixation in sacrum Denis type II fractures demonstrated less interfragmentary movements and should be considered in unstable fragility fractures of the sacrum. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1624–1629, 2018.
Searching for evidence or approval? A commentary on database search in systematic reviews and alternative information retrieval methodologies
Authors: Delaney Aogán , Tamás Peter A.
Published: November 2017

Despite recognition that database search alone is inadequate even within the health sciences, it appears that reviewers in fields that have adopted systematic review are choosing to rely primarily, or only, on database search for information retrieval. This commentary reminds readers of factors that call into question the appropriateness of default reliance on database searches particularly as systematic review is adapted for use in new and lower consensus fields. It then discusses alternative methods for information retrieval that require development, formalisation, and evaluation. Our goals are to encourage reviewers to reflect critically and transparently on their choice of information retrieval methods and to encourage investment in research on alternatives.
Prediction of mortality and morbidity in head and neck cancer patients 80 years of age and older undergoing surgery
Authors: L'Esperance Heidi E. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Yousaf Shahnawaz , Piccirillo Jay F. , Rich Jason T.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine postoperative complications and mortality rates in octogenarian and older head and neck cancer patients undergoing ablative surgical resections and to identify factors associated with postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study investigating risk factors for 30‐day serious complication risk and 90‐day mortality risk for patients aged 80 years and older who underwent ablative head and neck oncologic surgical procedures at an academic tertiary care center between 2005 and 2015.

Results

Of the 219 patients who underwent 241 surgeries, 74 patients experienced serious complications within 30 days and 25 died within 90 days of surgery. American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of 4 or greater, and operating room (OR) time ≥6 hours were independently associated with serious complications, whereas age ≥90 years, overall severe comorbidity score, presence of preoperative dysphagia, and large extent of resection were associated with increased risk of death in 90 days. Models to predict risk of 30‐day serious complications and 90‐day mortality were then developed.

Conclusion

Patient and surgical treatment factors predict risk of serious complications and mortality in patients aged 80 years and older undergoing ablative head and neck surgery. Predictive models may guide preoperative discussion with patients.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 128:871–877, 2018
Time to stop talking about ‘predatory journals’
Authors: Eriksson Stefan , Helgesson Gert
Published: November 2017

Key points

The term ‘predatory journal’ hides a wide range of scholarly publishing misconduct.

The term ‘predatory journal’ unhelpfully bundles misconduct with poor quality.

The term ‘predatory journal’ blinds us to important possibilities, needs, and questions arising in the developing scholarly landscape.

The current scholarly publishing environment cannot rely on such a simplified classification of journals into predatory or not.
Simplified profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap design using power Doppler ultrasonography (PDU): A prospective study
Authors: Kehrer Andreas , Hsu Ming‐Yi , Chen Yu‐Ting , Sachanandani Neil S. , Tsao Chung‐Kan
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Optimal design of PAP flaps requires precise perforator mapping. In a systematic review, Doppler ultrasonography demonstrated the highest sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV). We present a prospective study of PAP flap design comparing PDU, handheld Doppler (HHD), and clinical findings.

Methods

From May to July 2016, 12 head and neck cancer patients receiving PAP flaps were examined with PDU and HHD. We used PDU to evaluate number, course, emergence point, peak systolic velocity (PSV), and arterial diameter of perforators. PDU skin markings were measured in relation to the groin and gracilis. Distances to the adjacent HHD marking were determined. Diagnostic results were compared with intraoperative findings.

Results

All perforators identified with PDU were confirmed intraoperatively. No sizable perforators found surgically were missed by PDU. Detecting perforators with diameters of ≧0.5 mm, false‐negative rate of PDU was zero percent, sensitivity was 100%. Musculocutaneous courses were identified in all perforators and sensitivity of PDU was 96.7%. Arterial diameter was overestimated by PDU (1.49 ± 0.39 vs. 0.75 ± 0.31 mm,P >.05). PSV at the emergence point was 24.5 ± 11.9 cm/s. Average distance from the emergence point to the PDU marking was 2.45 ± 1.90 mm (0–6 mm). The PPV of PDU was calculated at 93.10%. Mean distance from the HHD to the PDU markings was 20.76 ± 16.5 mm (1–70 mm). Assuming PDU findings demonstrated the true anatomy, sensitivity of HHD was calculated with 89.7%, and PPV was 66.7%. All PAP flaps were successful, only minor revisions were needed.

Conclusions

PDU facilitated PAP flap design in all cases and offers a precise, non‐invasive diagnostic tool for flap planning.
Numerical simulation of time fractional Cable equations and convergence analysis
Authors: Yang Yin , Huang Yunqing , Zhou Yong
Published: November 2017

In this article, the numerical solution of time fractional Cable equation is considered. We convert the time fractional Cable equations into equivalent integral equations with singular kernel, then propose a spectral collection method in both time and space discretizations with a spectral expansion of Lagrange interpolation polynomial for this equation. The convergence of the method is rigorously established. Numerical tests are carried out to confirm the theoretical results.
A revised worm‐like chain model for elasticity of polypeptide chains
Authors: Fu Yi‐Ben , Liu Yu‐Ru , Wang Peng‐Ye , Xie Ping
Published: November 2017

The elasticity of polypeptide chains is usually characterized by the worm‐like chain model that was proposed first to describe the elasticity of double‐stranded DNA. However, the molecular dynamics simulation data on the elasticity of the polypeptide chains are deviated significantly away from the theoretical data obtained based on the worm‐like chain model. Here, we provide a revised worm‐like chain model by considering entropic, enthalpic, and hydrophobic effects and the effect of the compressing force applied to the polypeptide chains. The theoretical data obtained based on the revised model are in good agreement with the molecular dynamics simulation data. Additionally, we reveal that, besides the positive‐force regime in the elasticity of polypeptide chains, the negative‐force regime also plays important roles in the biological functions of proteins. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 297–307
Correlation between the molecular effects of mutations at the dimer interface of alanine–glyoxylate aminotransferase leading to primary hyperoxaluria type I and the cellular response to vitamin B6
Authors: Dindo Mirco , Oppici Elisa , Dell'Orco Daniele , Montone Rosa , Cellini Barbara
Published: November 2017

Primary hyperoxaluria type I (PH1) is a rare disease caused by the deficit of liver alanine–glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT). AGT prevents oxalate formation by converting peroxisomal glyoxylate to glycine. When the enzyme is deficient, progressive calcium oxalate stones deposit first in the urinary tract and then at the systemic level. Pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP), the AGT coenzyme, exerts a chaperone role by promoting dimerization, as demonstrated by studies at protein and cellular level. Thus, variants showing a destabilized dimeric structure should, in principle, be responsive to vitamin B6, a precursor of PLP. However, models to predict the extent of responsiveness of each variant are missing. We examined the effects of pathogenic interfacial mutations by combining bioinformatic predictions with molecular and cellular studies on selected variants (R36H, G42E, I56N, G63R, and G216R), in both their holo‐ (i.e., with bound PLP) and apo‐ (i.e., without bound PLP) form. We found that all variants displayed structural alterations mainly related to the apoform and consisting of an altered tertiary and quaternary structure. G216R also shows a strongly reduced catalytic efficiency. Moreover, all but G216R respond to vitamin B6, as shown by their increased specific activity and expression level in a cellular disease model. A global analysis of data unraveled a possible inverse correlation between the degree of destabilization/misfolding induced by a mutation and the extent of B6 responsiveness. These results provide a first explanation of factors influencing B6 response in PH1, a model possibly valuable for other rare diseases caused by protein deficits.
Listening to ecosystems: data‐rich acoustic monitoring through landscape‐scale sensor networks
Authors: Ross Samuel R. P. ‐J. , Friedman Nicholas R. , Dudley Kenneth L. , Yoshimura Masashi , Yoshida Takuma , Economo Evan P.
Published: November 2017

Ecologists have many ways to measure and monitor ecosystems, each of which can reveal details about the processes unfolding therein. Acoustic recording combined with machine learning methods for species detection can provide remote, automated monitoring of species richness and relative abundance. Such recordings also open a window into how species behave and compete for niche space in the sensory environment. These opportunities are associated with new challenges: the volume and velocity of such data require new approaches to species identification and visualization. Here we introduce a newly‐initiated acoustic monitoring network across the subtropical island of Okinawa, Japan, as part of the broader OKEON (Okinawa Environmental Observation Network) project. Our aim is to monitor the acoustic environment of Okinawa's ecosystems and use these space–time data to better understand ecosystem dynamics. We present a pilot study based on recordings from five field sites conducted over a one‐month period in the summer. Our results provide a proof of concept for automated species identification on Okinawa, and reveal patterns of biogenic vs. anthropogenic noise across the landscape. In particular, we found correlations between forest land cover and detection rates of two culturally important species in the island soundscape: the Okinawa Rail and Ruddy Kingfisher. Among the soundscape indices we examined, NDSI, Acoustic Diversity and the Bioacoustic Index showed both diurnal patterns and differences among sites. Our results highlight the potential utility of remote acoustic monitoring practices that, in combination with other methods can provide a holistic picture of biodiversity. We intend this project as an open resource, and wish to extend an invitation to researchers interested in scientific collaboration.
Discounted Agricultural Growth in South Africa
Authors: Williams Miesha J.
Published: November 2017

This paper examines impacts of appropriate resource allocation on subsistence level output. This study uses a stylized Coase Bargaining model and data from the South African Reserve bank to support the second welfare theorem. Back of the envelope calculations indicate the opportunity cost of manufacturing output has been the 20% discount in agricultural output in South Africa since 1968. This paper offers an exercise that can be implemented in developing nations having institutions resulting in two-sector economies. Moreover, the methods used here will help policy makers to estimate an appropriate value for wealth transfers.
Effect of a homogeneous magnetic field on the electrospraying characteristics of sulfolane ferrofluids
Authors: Madden Aaron , Fernandez de la Mora Juan , Jain Nirmesh , Sabouri Hadi , Hawkett Brian
Published: November 2017

We explore the effect of an applied homogeneous magnetic field on the electrospraying characteristics of a ferrofluid in the cone-jet mode. A sulfolane-based ferrofluid mixed with the ionic liquid ethyl ammonium nitrate has been synthesized. These mixtures have negligible volatility under ambient conditions and remain stable under a very wide range of electrical conductivities $K$. Magnetized Taylor cones spray with the same current emission characteristics as their non-magnetized counterparts in the shared voltage and flow rate parameter space. However, the magnetized Taylor cones studied remained stable at voltages 23 % lower than the non-magnetized spray; they also access flow rates 30 % and 40 % lower in ferrofluids with $K=0.3$ and $0.01~\text{S}~\text{m}^{-1}$. In the lower voltage ranges available only to magnetized tips, unusually long stable cones are observed. The magnetic stabilization mechanism responsible for these two effects remains unclear. It is noteworthy that these strong effects arise even when the tip curvature of the strictly magnetized liquid is orders of magnitude smaller than that for the strictly electrified liquid.
Relative periodic orbits form the backbone of turbulent pipe flow
Authors: Budanur N. B. , Short K. Y. , Farazmand M. , Willis A. P. , Cvitanović P.
Published: November 2017

The chaotic dynamics of low-dimensional systems, such as Lorenz or Rössler flows, is guided by the infinity of periodic orbits embedded in their strange attractors. Whether this is also the case for the infinite-dimensional dynamics of Navier–Stokes equations has long been speculated, and is a topic of ongoing study. Periodic and relative periodic solutions have been shown to be involved in transitions to turbulence. Their relevance to turbulent dynamics – specifically, whether periodic orbits play the same role in high-dimensional nonlinear systems like the Navier–Stokes equations as they do in lower-dimensional systems – is the focus of the present investigation. We perform here a detailed study of pipe flow relative periodic orbits with energies and mean dissipations close to turbulent values. We outline several approaches to reduction of the translational symmetry of the system. We study pipe flow in a minimal computational cell at $Re=2500$, and report a library of invariant solutions found with the aid of the method of slices. Detailed study of the unstable manifolds of a sample of these solutions is consistent with the picture that relative periodic orbits are embedded in the chaotic saddle and that they guide the turbulent dynamics.
Bovine tuberculosis in Northern Ireland: quantification of the population disease-level effect from cattle leaving herds detected as a source of infection
Authors: DOYLE L. P. , COURCIER E. A. , GORDON A. W. , O'HAGAN M. J. H. , STEGEMAN J. A. , MENZIES F. D.
Published: November 2017

Determination of the proportion of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) breakdowns attributed to a herd purchasing infected animals has not been previously quantified using data from the Animal and Public Health Information System (APHIS) database in Northern Ireland. We used a case–control study design to account for the infection process occurring in the disclosing bTB breakdown herds. Cases (N = 6926) were cattle moving to a future confirmed bTB breakdown where they would disclose as a confirmed bTB reactor or a Lesion at Routine Slaughter (LRS). Controls (N = 303 499) were cattle moving to a future confirmed bTB breakdown where they did not become a bTB reactor or LRS. Our study showed that the cattle leaving herds which disclosed bTB within 450 days had an increased odds of becoming a confirmed bTB reactor or LRS compared with the cattle which left herds that remained free for 450 days (odds ratio (OR) = 2·09: 95% CI 1·96–2·22). Of the 12 060 confirmed bTB breakdowns included in our study (2007–2015 inclusive), 31% (95% CI 29·8–31·5) contained a confirmed bTB reactor(s) or LRS(s) at the disclosing test which entered the herd within the previous 450 days. After controlling for the infection process occurring in the disclosing bTB breakdown herd, our study showed that 6·4% (95% CI 5·9–6·8) of bTB breakdowns in Northern Ireland were directly attributable to the movement of infected animals.
Emergence of the L phenotype in Group B Streptococci in the South of Ireland
Authors: HAYES K. , COTTER L. , BARRY L. , O'HALLORAN F.
Published: November 2017

Group B Streptococcal isolates (n= 235) from the South of Ireland were characterised by serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility and determination of the phenotypic and genotypic mechanisms of resistance. Resistance to erythromycin and clindamycin was observed in 21·3% and 20·4% of the total population, respectively. The c-MLSB phenotype was the most common phenotype detected (62%), withermBbeing the predominant genetic determinant, present in 84% of resistant isolates. The rare L phenotype was observed in 2·9% (n= 7) of isolates, four of which harboured thelsaCgene responsible for clindamycin resistance. Serotypes Ia, III and II were the most common amongst the entire study population (28·1%, 24·7% and 14%, respectively). Four of the seven L phenotype isolates were serotype III and two of these strains were confirmed as the hypervirulent clone, ST-17 and harboured thehvgAgene. This is the first documented case of the L phenotype in Ireland to date and the study findings emphasise the need for continued monitoring of antibiotic resistance and serotype distribution in GBS isolates from Ireland.
The battle for Bankside: electricity, politics and the plans for post-war London
Authors: MURRAY STEPHEN
Published: November 2017

In the mid-1940s a conflict arose – the battle for Bankside – between two plans for a contested space on London's South Bank. The electricity industry planned to rebuild Bankside power station to alleviate a critical shortage of electricity, whereas theCounty of London Planenvisaged redevelopment of the area as public gardens, flats and offices. This article examines these plans and their entanglement in the planning system as then constituted; it argues that the significance of the planning principles escalated the arguments from a local issue to the highest level of government. The roles of key actors who manoeuvred to influence the decision-making process are explored. The article demonstrates that the power station approval was crisis driven and imposed ill-considered conditions with long-term implications. Elements of theCounty of London Planwere realized through deindustrialization and the transformation of the long-derelict power station into Tate Modern in 2000.
Musical Interests and Talent: Twin Jazz Musicians and Twin Studies/Twin Research: Loss of a Preterm Multiple; Conjoined Twin Conception; Depression in Fathers of Twins; Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome/Twin News: High-Achieving Twins; Twin Children of a Tennis Star; Conjoined Twin Separation; Twin Delivery to a Giant Panda
Authors: Segal Nancy L.
Published: November 2017

Findings from twin studies of musical interests and talent are reviewed as a backdrop to the lives and careers of twin jazz musicians, Peter and Will Anderson. The Anderson twins exemplify many aspects of twin research, namely their matched musical abilities, shared musical interests, and common career. This overview is followed by reviews of studies and case reports of bereavement in families who have lost a preterm multiple birth infant, the conception of conjoined twins following in vitro fertilization (IVF), depression in fathers of twins, and twin-to-twin transfusion incidence in monochorionic-diamniotic IVF twin pairs. Twins highlighted in the media include high-achieving identical female twins with nearly identical academic standing, tennis star Roger Federer's two sets of identical twin children, surgical separation of craniopagus conjoined twins, and the rare delivery of twins to a 23-year-old giant panda.
Direct catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 to formate over a Schiff-base-mediated gold nanocatalyst
Authors: Liu Qinggang , Yang Xiaofeng , Li Lin , Miao Shu , Li Yong , Li Yanqin , Wang Xinkui , Huang Yanqiang , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2017

Catalytic transformation of CO2 to formate is generally realized through bicarbonate hydrogenation in an alkaline environment, while it suffers from a thermodynamic sink due to the considerable thermodynamic stability of the bicarbonate intermediate. Here, we devise a route for the direct catalytic conversion of CO2 over a Schiff-base-modified gold nanocatalyst that is comparable to the fastest known nanocatalysts, with a turnover number (TON) of up to 14,470 over 12 h at 90 °C. Theoretical calculations and spectral analysis results demonstrate that the activation of CO2 can be achieved through a weakly bonded carbamate zwitterion intermediate derived from a simple Lewis base adduct of CO2. However, this can only occur with a hydrogen lacking Lewis base center in a polar solvent. This finding offers a promising avenue for the direct activation of CO2 and is likely to have considerable implications in the fields of CO2 conversion and gold catalytic chemistry.
Author Correction: Norgestimate inhibits staphylococcal biofilm formation and resensitizes methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to β-lactam antibiotics
Authors: Yoshii Yutaka , Okuda Ken-ichi , Yamada Satomi , Nagakura Mari , Sugimoto Shinya , Nagano Tetsuo , Okabe Takayoshi , Kojima Hirotatsu , Iwamoto Takeo , Kuwano Kazuyoshi , Mizunoe Yoshimitsu
Published: November 2017

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this article.
An electrically reconfigurable logic gate intrinsically enabled by spin-orbit materials
Authors: Kazemi Mohammad
Published: November 2017

The spin degree of freedom in magnetic devices has been discussed widely for computing, since it could significantly reduce energy dissipation, might enable beyond Von Neumann computing, and could have applications in quantum computing. For spin-based computing to become widespread, however, energy efficient logic gates comprising as few devices as possible are required. Considerable recent progress has been reported in this area. However, proposals for spin-based logic either require ancillary charge-based devices and circuits in each individual gate or adopt principals underlying charge-based computing by employing ancillary spin-based devices, which largely negates possible advantages. Here, we show that spin-orbit materials possess an intrinsic basis for the execution of logic operations. We present a spin-orbit logic gate that performs a universal logic operation utilizing the minimum possible number of devices, that is, the essential devices required for representing the logic operands. Also, whereas the previous proposals for spin-based logic require extra devices in each individual gate to provide reconfigurability, the proposed gate is ‘electrically’ reconfigurable at run-time simply by setting the amplitude of the clock pulse applied to the gate. We demonstrate, analytically and numerically with experimentally benchmarked models, that the gate performs logic operations and simultaneously stores the result, realizing the ‘stateful’ spin-based logic scalable to ultralow energy dissipation.
Carbon Nanotube Array Based Binary Gabor Zone Plate Lenses
Authors: Deng Sunan , Jwad Tahseen , Li Chi , Benton David , Yetisen Ali K. , Jiang Kyle , Dai Qing , Butt Haider
Published: November 2017

Diffractive zone plates have a wide range of applications from focusing x-ray to extreme UV radiation. The Gabor zone plate, which suppresses the higher-order foci to a pair of conjugate foci, is an attractive alternative to the conventional Fresnel zone plate. In this work, we developed a novel type of Beynon Gabor zone plate based on perfectly absorbing carbon nanotube forest. Lensing performances of 0, 8 and 20 sector Gabor zone plates were experimentally analyzed. Numerical investigations of Beynon Gabor zone plate configurations were in agreement with the experimental results. A high-contrast focal spot having 487 times higher intensity than the average background was obtained.
Overexpression of DYRK1A, a Down Syndrome Candidate gene, Impairs Primordial Germ Cells Maintenance and Migration in zebrafish
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Lin Ziyuan , Liu Mingfeng , Wang He , Sun Huaqin
Published: November 2017

DYRK1A, located on chromosome 21, is a major candidate gene of Down syndrome (DS, trisomy21), and its overexpression is associated with abnormal phenotype of Down syndrome patients. The defects of gonads and germ cells in Down Syndrome suggest that overexpression of DYRK1A has potential effect on primordial germ cells (PGCs) development. Human and zebrafish DYRK1A protein sequence possess 75.6% similarity and same function domains, suggesting the evolutional conservation. Here, we used zebrafish model to detect the definite role of excessive expression of DYRK1A in PGCs development during embryogenesis. We injected DYRK1A mRNA into embryos and detected the PGCs marker gene vasa and nanos1. Results showed depletion in numbers and disordering migration of PGCs in human or zebrafish DYRK1A overexpressed zebrafish embryos. Quantitative proteome analysis indicated that embryonic proteins were significantly altered in DYRK1A overexpressed embryos. Of note, ca15b and piwil1, two identified critical factors for PGCs development, showed ectopic expression induced by overexpressed DYRK1A. In brief, we demonstrate that overexpression of DYRK1A, a candidate gene of Down’s syndrome, impairs PGCs development during early embryogenesis by altering key factors in embryos. Importantly, our work may provide a conceivable mechanism for the gonads and germ cells defects of Down syndrome patients.
An electrochemical microRNA sensing platform based on tungsten diselenide nanosheets and competitive RNA–RNA hybridization
Authors: Chen Ying-Xu , Zhang Wen-Jing , Huang Ke-Jing , Zheng Mingbo , Mao Ya-Cen
Published: November 2017

In this work, we report an ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor for microRNA-21 detection by using a competitive RNA–RNA hybridization configuration.
A ratiometric mitochondria-targeting two-photon fluorescent probe for imaging of nitric oxide in vivo
Authors: Zhu Xinyue , Chen Jin-Quan , Ma Chen , Liu Xiaoyan , Cao Xiao-Ping , Zhang Haixia
Published: November 2017

A two-photon ratiometric fluorescent probe (Mito-N) has been developed for monitoring mitochondrial nitric oxide (NO) in vivo.
Engineering high-performance hairpin stacking circuits for logic gate operation and highly sensitive biosensing assay of microRNA
Authors: Xing Yueli , Li Xinmin , Yuan Taixian , Cheng Wei , Li Dandan , Yu Tianxiao , Ding Xiaojuan , Ding Shijia
Published: November 2017

Recently, hairpin stacking circuits (HSC) based on toehold-mediated strand displacement have been engineered to detect nucleic acids and proteins.
Controllable engineering of asymmetric phosphatidylserine-containing lipid vesicles using calcium cations
Authors: Sun Hai-Yuan , Deng Geng , Jiang Yao-Wen , Zhou Yu , Xu Jing , Wu Fu-Gen , Yu Zhi-Wu
Published: November 2017

The presence of Ca2+significantly increases the flip rate of DOPS lipid molecules due to the local membrane curvature.
Microstructure variations induced by excess PbX2or AX within perovskite thin films
Authors: Zheng Guanhaojie , Zhu Cheng , Chen Yihua , Zhang Juchen , Chen Qi , Gao Xingyu , Zhou Huanping
Published: November 2017

We investigated the impact of stoichiometric ratio of PbX2/AX on microstructures within hybrid perovskite films, especially on the plane stacking directions, using the two-dimensional synchrotron radiation grazing incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering technique.
G-Quartet hydrogels for effective cell growth applications
Authors: Rotaru Alexandru , Pricope Gabriela , Plank Taylor N. , Clima Lilia , Ursu Elena L. , Pinteala Mariana , Davis Jeffery T. , Barboiu Mihail
Published: November 2017

Functional G-quartet hydrogels formed from natural guanosine cross linked with benzene-1,4-diboronic acid and Mg2+ support cell growth with no visible signs of gel degradation.
Aggregation-induced emission assembled ultrathin films for white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhang Zekun , Tian Rui , Zhou Wenjuan , Lin Yanjun , Lu Chao
Published: November 2017

White-light emitting ultrathin films have been achieved using aggregation-induced emission molecules, exhibiting excellent performances in white-LEDs.
Hierarchically structured magnesium based oxides: synthesis strategies and applications in organic pollutant remediation
Authors: Sharma Lekha , Kakkar Rita
Published: November 2017

In this highlight, we review the design and formation of MgO based hierarchical structures and cover some selected examples on their applications in adsorption of organic contaminants.
Insight into the effect mechanism of urea-induced protein denaturation by dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Zhang Cancan , Yang Man , Zhao Kongshuang
Published: November 2017

Dielectric relaxation spectroscopy was applied to study how urea affects the phase transition of a thermosensitive polymer, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), which has been widely used as a protein model. The interaction mechanism of PNIPAM and urea in different concentration regions and the deduction of urea-induced protein denaturation mechanism was presented.
Probing promoting effects of alkali cations on the reduction of CO at the aqueous electrolyte/copper interface
Authors: Gunathunge Charuni M. , Ovalle Vincent J. , Waegele Matthias M.
Published: November 2017

Surface-sensitive infrared spectroscopy shows that the CO coverage on copper electrodes under CO reduction conditions strongly depends on the electrolyte's cation.
Conformational collapse of spherical poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) brushes under the constraint of bound micelles
Authors: Zhu Peng-Wei , Chen Luguang
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we investigate the micelle (charge)-constrained collapse of a spherical poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) brush.
Excited-state dynamics of mononucleotides and DNA strands in a deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Zhang Yuyuan , de La Harpe Kimberly , Hariharan Mahesh , Kohler Bern
Published: November 2017

The photophysics of several mono- and oligonucleotides were investigated in a deep eutectic solvent for the first time.
A N,P-co-doped 3D graphene/cobalt-embedded electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Hu Xiao-Li , Dai Xu-Hong , He Xing-Quan
Published: November 2017

A 3D cobalt-embedded N,P-doped carbon catalyst was synthesized as a low-cost, stable and highly efficient oxygen reduction reaction activity catalyst.
Interplay between σ region 3.2 and secondary channel factors during promoter escape by bacterial RNA polymerase
Authors: Petushkov Ivan , Esyunina Daria , Mekler Vladimir , Severinov Konstantin , Pupov Danil , Kulbachinskiy Andrey
Published: November 2017

In bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP), conserved region 3.2 of the σ subunit was proposed to contribute to promoter escape by interacting with the 5′-end of nascent RNA, thus facilitating σ dissociation. RNAP activity during transcription initiation can also be modulated by protein factors that bind within the secondary channel and reach the enzyme active site. To monitor the kinetics of promoter escape in real time, we used a molecular beacon assay with fluorescently labeled σ70 subunit of Escherichia coli RNAP. We show that substitutions and deletions in σ region 3.2 decrease the rate of promoter escape and lead to accumulation of inactive complexes during transcription initiation. Secondary channel factors differentially regulate this process depending on the promoter and mutations in σ region 3.2. GreA generally increase the rate of promoter escape; DksA also stimulates promoter escape on certain templates, while GreB either stimulates or inhibits this process depending on the template. When observed, the stimulation of promoter escape correlates with the accumulation of stressed transcription complexes with scrunched DNA, while changes in the RNA 5′-end structure modulate promoter clearance. Thus, the initiation-to-elongation transition is controlled by a complex interplay between RNAP-binding protein factors and the growing RNA chain.
Dual phosphorylation in response regulator protein PrrA is crucial for intracellular survival of mycobacteria consequent upon transcriptional activation
Authors: Mishra Alok K. , Yabaji Shivraj M. , Dubey Rikesh K. , Dhamija Ekta , Srivastava Kishore K.
Published: November 2017

The remarkable ability of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to survive inside human macrophages is attributed to the presence of a complex sensory and regulatory network. PrrA is a DNA-binding regulatory protein, belonging to an essential two-component system (TCS), PrrA/B, which is required for early phase intracellular replication of Mtb. Despite its importance, the mechanism of PrrA/B-mediated signaling is not well understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that the binding of PrrA on the promoter DNA and its consequent activation is cumulatively controlled via dual phosphorylation of the protein. We have further characterized the role of terminal phospho-acceptor domain in the physical interaction of PrrA with its cognate kinase PrrB. The genetic deletion of prrA/B in Mycobacterium smegmatis was possible only in the presence of ectopic copies of the genes, suggesting the essentiality of this TCS in fast-growing mycobacterial strains as well. The overexpression of phospho-mimetic mutant (T6D) altered the growth of M. smegmatis in an in vitro culture and affected the replication of Mycobacterium bovis BCG in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Interestingly, the Thr6 site was found to be conserved in Mtb complex, whereas it was altered in some fast-growing mycobacterial strains, indicating that this unique phosphorylation might be predominant in employing the regulatory circuit in M. bovis BCG and presumably also in Mtb complex.
Busulfan administration produces toxic effects on epididymal morphology and inhibits the expression of ZO-1 and vimentin in the mouse epididymis
Authors: Fang Fang , Ni Ke , Cai Yiting , Zhao Qian , Shang Jin , Zhang Xiaoke , Shen Shiliang , Xiong Chengliang
Published: November 2017

Busulfan is an alkane sulphonate currently used as an anticancer drug and to prepare azoospermic animal models, because it selectively destroys differentiated spermatogonia in the testes. However, few studies have focussed on the exact effects of busulfan treatment on the epididymis currently. The present study assessed the effect of busulfan on epididymal morphology and the blood–epididymis barrier in mice. We treated mice with a single injection of busulfan and detected the effect at different time points. We showed that busulfan was toxic to the morphological structure and function of the epididymis. Furthermore, busulfan treatment down-regulated the epididymal expression of vimentin and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at the mRNA and protein levels. In addition, there was an increase in total androgen receptor (AR) levels, whereas the estrogen receptor-α (ER-α) levels were reduced, both in the caput and cauda regions after busulfan treatment, which may be secondary to the testicular damage. In conclusion, our study describes the effects of busulfan administration on the mouse epididymis and also provides a potential understanding of male infertility arising from chemotherapy-related defects in the epididymis.
Combining high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and mutagenesis to develop cowpea mosaic virus for bionanotechnology
Authors: Meshcheriakova Yulia , Durrant Alex , Hesketh Emma L. , Ranson Neil A. , Lomonossoff George P.
Published: November 2017

Particles of cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) have enjoyed considerable success as nanoparticles. The development of a system for producing empty virus-like particles (eVLPs) of the virus, which are non-infectious and have the potential to be loaded with heterologous material, has increased the number of possible applications for CPMV-based particles. However, for this potential to be realised, it was essential to demonstrate that eVLPs were accurate surrogates for natural virus particles, and this information was provided by high-resolution cryo-EM studies of eVLPs. This demonstration has enabled the approaches developed for the production of modified particles developed with natural CPMV particles to be applied to eVLPs. Furthermore, a combination of cryo-EM and mutagenic studies allowed the development of particles which are permeable but which could still assemble efficiently. These particles were shown to be loadable with cobalt, indicating that they can, indeed, be used as nano-containers.