bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Core-shell magnetoelectric nanorobot – A remotely controlled probe for targeted cell manipulation
Authors: Betal Soutik , Saha Amit Kumar , Ortega Eduardo , Dutta Moumita , Ramasubramanian Anand Kumar , Bhalla Amar Singh , Guo Ruyan 
Published: January 2018

AbstractWe have developed a remotely controlled dynamic process of manipulating targeted biological live cells using fabricated core-shell nanocomposites, which comprises of single crystalline ferromagnetic cores (CoFe2O4) coated with crystalline ferroelectric thin film shells (BaTiO3). We demonstrate them as a unique family of inorganic magnetoelectric nanorobots (MENRs), controlled remotely by applied a.c. or d.c. magnetic fields, to perform cell targeting, permeation, and transport. Under a.c. magnetic field excitation (50 Oe, 60 Hz), the MENR acts as a localized electric periodic pulse generator and can permeate a series of misaligned cells, while aligning them to an equipotential mono-array by inducing inter-cellular signaling. Under a.c. magnetic field (40 Oe, 30 Hz) excitation, MENRs can be dynamically driven to a targeted cell, avoiding untargeted cells in the path, irrespective of cell density. D.C. magnetic field (−50 Oe) excitation causes the MENRs to act as thrust generator and exerts motion in a group of cells.
MCPIP1-induced autophagy mediates ischemia/reperfusion injury in endothelial cells via HMGB1 and CaSR
Authors: Xie Xiaolong , Zhu Tiebing , Chen Lulu , Ding Shuang , Chu Han , Wang Jing , Yao Honghong , Chao Jie 
Published: January 2018

AbstractMonocyte chemotactic protein-1-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1) plays a important role in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Autophagy is involved in activating endothelial cells in response to I/R. However, researchers have not clearly determined whether MCPIP1 mediates I/R injury in endothelial cells via autophagy, and its downstream mechanism remains unclear. Western blotting analyses and immunocytochemistry were applied to detect protein levels were detected in HUVECs. An in vitro scratch assay was used to detect cell migration. Cells were transfected with siRNAs to knockdown MCPIP1 and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) expression. The pharmacological activator of autophagy rapamycin and the specific calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) inhibitor NPS-2143 were used to confirm the roles of autophagy and CaSR in I/R injury. I/R induced HMGB1 and CaSR expression, which subsequently upreguated the migration and apoptosis of HUVECs and coincided with the increase of autophagy. HMGB1 was involved in cell migration, whereas CaSR specifically participated in I/R-induced HUVEC apoptosis. Based on these findings, I/R-induced MCPIP1 expression regulates the migration and apoptosis of HUVECs via HMGB1 and CaSR, respectively, suggesting a new therapeutic targetof I/R injury.
Extra-Mediterranean glacial refuges in barred and common grass snakes (Natrix helvetica, N. natrix)
Authors: Kindler Carolin , Graciá Eva , Fritz Uwe 
Published: January 2018

AbstractExtra-Mediterranean glacial refugia of thermophilic biota, in particular in northern latitudes, are controversial. In the present study we provide genetic evidence for extra-Mediterranean refugia in two species of grass snake. The refuge of a widely distributed western European lineage of the barred grass snake (Natrix helvetica) was most likely located in southern France, outside the classical refuges in the southern European peninsulas. One genetic lineage of the common grass snake (N. natrix), distributed in Scandinavia, Central Europe and the Balkan Peninsula, had two distinct glacial refuges. We show that one was located in the southern Balkan Peninsula. However, Central Europe and Scandinavia were not colonized from there, but from a second refuge in Central Europe. This refuge was located in between the northern ice sheet and the Alpine glaciers of the last glaciation and most likely in a permafrost region. Another co-distributed genetic lineage of N. natrix, now massively hybridizing with the aforementioned lineage, survived the last glaciation in a structured refuge in the southern Balkan Peninsula, according to the idea of ‘refugia-within-refugia’. It reached Central Europe only very recently. This study reports for the first time the glacial survival of a thermophilic egg-laying reptile species in Central Europe.
The inflammatory effects of TNF-α and complement component 3 on coagulation
Authors: Page Martin J. , Bester Janette , Pretorius Etheresia 
Published: January 2018

AbstractTissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and complement component 3 (C3) are two well-known pro-inflammatory molecules. When TNF-α is upregulated, it contributes to changes in coagulation and causes C3 induction. They both interact with receptors on platelets and erythrocytes (RBCs). Here, we look at the individual effects of C3 and TNF-α, by adding low levels of the molecules to whole blood and platelet poor plasma. We used thromboelastography, wide-field microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to study blood clot formation, as well as structural changes to RBCs and platelets. Clot formation was significantly different from the naïve sample for both the molecules. Furthermore, TNF-α exposure to whole blood resulted in platelet clumping and activation and we noted spontaneous plasma protein dense matted deposits. C3 exposure did not cause platelet aggregation, and only slight pseudopodia formation was noted. Therefore, although C3 presence has an important function to cause TNF-α release, it does not necessarily by itself cause platelet activation or RBC damage at these low concentrations. We conclude by suggesting that our laboratory results can be translated into clinical practice by incorporating C3 and TNF-α measurements into broad spectrum analysis assays, like multiplex technology, as a step closer to a patient-orientated, precision medicine approach.
Atypical changes in DRG neuron excitability and complex pain phenotype associated with a Nav1.7 mutation that massively hyperpolarizes activation
Authors: Huang Jianying , Mis Malgorzata A. , Tanaka Brian , Adi Talia , Estacion Mark , Liu Shujun , Walker Suellen , Dib-Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractSodium channel Nav1.7 plays a central role in pain-signaling: gain-of-function Nav1.7 mutations usually cause severe pain and loss-of-function mutations produce insensitivity to pain. The Nav1.7 I234T gain-of-function mutation, however, is linked to a dual clinical presentation of episodic pain, together with absence of pain following fractures, and corneal anesthesia. How a Nav1.7 mutation that produces gain-of-function at the channel level causes clinical loss-of-function has remained enigmatic. We show by current-clamp that expression of I234T in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons produces a range of membrane depolarizations including a massive shift to >−40 mV that reduces excitability in a small number of neurons. Dynamic-clamp permitted us to mimic the heterozygous condition via replacement of 50% endogenous wild-type Nav1.7 channels by I234T, and confirmed that the I234T conductance could drastically depolarize DRG neurons, resulting in loss of excitability. We conclude that attenuation of pain sensation by I234T is caused by massively depolarized membrane potential of some DRG neurons which is partly due to enhanced overlap between activation and fast-inactivation, impairing their ability to fire. Our results demonstrate how a Nav1.7 mutation that produces channel gain-of-function can contribute to a dual clinical presentation that includes loss of pain sensation at the clinical level.
Communication between the leaflets of asymmetric membranes revealed from coarse-grain molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Shearer Jonathan , Khalid Syma 
Published: January 2018

AbstractWe use coarse-grain molecular simulations to investigate the structural and dynamics differences between an asymmetric and a symmetrical membrane, both containing beta barrel transmembrane proteins. We find in where the dynamics of the two leaflets differ greatly, the slowest leaflet dominates the structural effects and importance of protein-lipid interactions.
Introducing the Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species
Authors: Pagad Shyama , Genovesi Piero , Carnevali Lucilla , Schigel Dmitry , McGeoch Melodie A. 
Published: January 2018

AbstractHarmonised, representative data on the state of biological invasions remain inadequate at country and global scales, particularly for taxa that affect biodiversity and ecosystems. Information is not readily available in a form suitable for policy and reporting. The Global Register of Introduced and Invasive Species (GRIIS) provides the first country-wise checklists of introduced (naturalised) and invasive species. GRIIS was conceived to provide a sustainable platform for information delivery to support national governments. We outline the rationale and methods underpinning GRIIS, to facilitate transparent, repeatable analysis and reporting. Twenty country checklists are presented as exemplars; GRIIS Checklists for close to all countries globally will be submitted through the same process shortly. Over 11000 species records are currently in the 20 country exemplars alone, with environmental impact evidence for just over 20% of these. GRIIS provides significant support for countries to identify and prioritise invasive alien species, and establishes national and global baselines. In future this will enable a global system for sustainable monitoring of trends in biological invasions that affect the environment.
The impact of new transportation modes on population distribution in Jing-Jin-Ji region of China
Authors: Wang Lizhe , Chen Lajiao 
Published: January 2018

AbstractThis paper conducts a novel study in China’s Jing-Jin-Ji region to investigate the determinants of population distribution and short-term migration based on a comprehensive dataset including traditional census data, earth observation data, and emerging Internet data. Our results show that due to the high level of urbanization in this region, natural conditions are no longer the strongest determinants of population distribution. New transportation modes, such as high-speed rail, have arisen as a significant determinant of population distribution and short-term migration, particularly in large cities. Socio-economic factors such as GDP, investment, urbanization level, and technology, which are traditionally assumed to govern population distribution and short-term migration, have less influence although education still remains an important factor affecting population distribution. These findings will contribute valuable information to regional planning decision-making in the Jing-Jin-Ji region.
Analysis of well rod pump equipment work capability indicators
Authors: Zuleykha Eyvazova , Tarlan Farajov 
Published: January 2018

The aim of this research study is to find a new model of well rod pump which is less cost compare than previous models. The construction of well rod pump changed and this will lead to the use of low‐energy consumption electrical motor at well rod pump drive unit. This is achieved by decreasing weight of drive unit by using composite materials. This is achieved by changing some parameters of drive unit: departure changeover interval from 3 to 6 m and maximum loading at the suspension point of rods 150 kN.
AGN black hole mass estimates using polarization in broad emission lines
Authors: Savić D. , Goosmann R. , Popović L. Č. , Marin F. , Afanasiev V. L. 
Published: January 2018

Context.The innermost regions in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) have not yet been spatially resolved, but spectropolarimetry can provide insight into their hidden physics and geometry. From spectropolarimetric observations in broad emission lines and assuming equatorial scattering as a dominant polarization mechanism, it is possible to estimate the mass of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) residing at the center of AGNs.Aims.We explore the possibilities and limits, and put constraints on the method for determining SMBH masses using polarization in broad emission lines by providing more in-depth theoretical modeling.Methods.We used the Monte Carlo radiative transfer codeSTOKESto explore polarization properties of Type-1 AGNs. We modeled equatorial scattering using flared-disk geometry for a set of different SMBH masses assuming Thomson scattering. In addition to the Keplerian motion, which is assumed to be dominant in the broad-line region (BLR), we also considered cases of additional radial inflows and vertical outflows.Results.We modeled the profiles of polarization plane position angleφ, degree of polarization, and total unpolarized lines for different BLR geometries and different SMBH masses. Our model confirms that the method can be widely used for Type-1 AGNs when viewing inclinations are between 25° and 45°. We show that the distance between the BLR and scattering region (SR) has a significant impact on the mass estimates and the best mass estimates are when the SR is situated at a distance 1.5–2.5 times larger than the outer BLR radius.Conclusions.Our models show that if Keplerian motion can be traced through the polarized line profile, then the direct estimation of the mass of the SMBH can be performed. When radial inflows or vertical outflows are present in the BLR, this method can still be applied if velocities of the inflow/outflow are less than 500 km s−1. We also find that models for NGC 4051, NGC 4151, 3C 273, and PG0844+349 are in good agreement with observations.
The cost of controlling strongly degenerate parabolic equations
Authors: Cannarsa P. , Martinez P. , Vancostenoble J. 
Published: January 2018

We consider the typical one-dimensional strongly degenerate parabolic operator Pu = ut − (xαux)x with 0 < x < ℓ and α ∈ (0, 2), controlled either by a boundary control acting at x = ℓ, or by a locally distributed control. Our main goal is to study the dependence of the so-called controllability cost needed to drive an initial condition to rest with respect to the degeneracy parameter α. We prove that the control cost blows up with an explicit exponential rate, as eC/((2−α)2T), when α → 2− and/or T → 0+. Our analysis builds on earlier results and methods (based on functional analysis and complex analysis techniques) developed by several authors such as Fattorini-Russel, Seidman, Güichal, Tenenbaum-Tucsnak and Lissy for the classical heat equation. In particular, we use the moment method and related constructions of suitable biorthogonal families, as well as new fine properties of the Bessel functions Jν of large order ν (obtained by ordinary differential equations techniques).
Dysarthria following Stroke
Authors: Brown Katherine , Spencer Kristie 
Published: January 2018

AbstractDysarthria is a common consequence of stroke and can have a detrimental influence on communication and quality of life. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play an important role in the evaluation and rehabilitation of stroke survivors who present with dysarthria. An understanding of the physiologic reason behind the altered speech characteristics, such as weakness or incoordination, can facilitate differential diagnosis, guide evaluation strategies, and influence treatment approaches. An initial comprehensive speech evaluation is comprised of examination of the speech mechanism, screening of speech subsystems, perceptual assessment, and intelligibility measurement. Management strategies focus on optimizing communication through compensatory strategies as well as providing physiologic support. The SLP is also responsible for educating family and staff regarding strategies that can facilitate communication.
Contributions of Neuroimaging to Understanding Language Deficits in Acute Stroke
Authors: Breining Bonnie , Sebastian Rajani 
Published: January 2018

AbstractAdvances in structural and functional imaging techniques have provided new insights into our understanding of brain and language relationships. In this article, we review the various structural and functional imaging methods currently used to study language deficits in acute stroke. We also discuss the advantages and the limitations of each imaging modality and the applications of each modality in the clinical and research settings in the study of language deficits.
Implementing a Standardized Assessment Battery for Aphasia in Acute Care
Authors: Kasparian Laura , Kaminski Olga , Schliep Megan , Koymen Semra , Vallila-Rohter Sofia 
Published: January 2018

AbstractIn this article, the implementation of a standardized assessment battery for the evaluation of language in an acute care setting is described. Following an institutional shift to adopt electronic medical records, researchers and clinicians worked together to develop a technology-assisted evaluation of aphasia that would be used to assess all patients admitted to our facility with stroke. The project goal was to devise a clinical process to improve aphasia diagnosis and evaluation while remaining feasible within constraints imposed by the acute care setting and the electronic medical record. Utilizing frameworks from implementation science, the four key phases were: (1) initial considerations of the host setting, (2) creation of a structure for implementation, (3) maintenance of this structure once implementation began, and (4) improvement for future applications. A pilot implementation demonstrated that establishing and executing a minimum standardized assessment for aphasia in acute care is feasible. Retrospective medical record review of 50 aphasia evaluations in the setting of first incidence of left hemisphere stroke affecting the middle cerebral artery (25 preimplementation and 25 postimplementation) revealed that information content of medical notes was more consistent and complete postimplementation than preimplementation. Clinical implications and future directions are discussed.
Degree of Response to Homeopathic Potencies Correlates with Dipole Moment Size in Molecular Detectors: Implications for Understanding the Fundamental Nature of Serially Diluted and Succussed Solutions
Authors: Cartwright Steven 
Published: January 2018

Background The use of solvatochromic dyes to investigate homeopathic potencies holds out the promise of understanding the nature of serially succussed and diluted solutions at a fundamental physicochemical level. Recent studies have shown that a range of different dyes interact with potencies and, moreover, the nature of the interaction is beginning to allow certain specific characteristics of potencies to be delineated.
Aims and Methods The study reported in this article takes previous investigations further and aims to understand more about the nature of the interaction between potencies and solvatochromic dyes. To this end, the UV-visible spectra of a wide range of potential detectors of potencies have been examined using methodologies previously described.
Results Results presented demonstrate that solvatochromic dyes are a sub-group of a larger class of compounds capable of demonstrating interactions with potencies. In particular, amino acids containing an aromatic bridge also show marked optical changes in the presence of potencies. Several specific features of molecular detectors can now be shown to be necessary for significant interactions with homeopathic potencies. These include systems with a large dipole moment, electron delocalisation, polarizability and molecular rigidity.
Conclusions Analysis of the optical changes occurring on interaction with potencies suggests that in all cases potencies increase the polarity of molecular detectors to a degree that correlates with the size of the compound's permanent or ground dipole moment. These results can be explained by inferring that potencies themselves have polarity. Possible candidates for the identity of potencies, based on these and previously reported results, are discussed.
Histological Changes in the Rat Femoral Artery Following the Use of the Empty-and-Refill Test
Authors: Naides Alexandra , Noland Roberto , Lu Jiajie , Akelina Yelena , Marboe Charles , Strauch Robert 
Published: January 2018

Background This study examines the effects of the empty-and-refill patency test on rat femoral arteries in the longer postoperative time period.
Methods A simple arterial anastomosis was performed bilaterally on 20 rats. The empty-and-refill test was performed unilaterally in all rats, leaving the contralateral artery as an internal control. Rats were divided into two cohorts of 10 rats and survived for 48 hours and 2 weeks. Vessel patency was assessed prior to closing and immediately prior to sacrifice. The femoral arteries were harvested bilaterally and hematoxylin and eosin stains were performed. The femoral artery distal to the anastomosis in the region of the empty-and-refill test was histologically evaluated.
Results All vessels were patent at the time of sacrifice. There was no statistical difference in the numeric scoring between the experimental and control vessels in the 48-hour cohort. Almost all vessels harvested at 48 hours showed endothelial cell loss distal to the anastomosis regardless of whether they underwent the empty-and-refill test. The only statistically significant difference in the 2-week cohort was an increase in adventitial smooth muscle proliferation in the experimental group. There were no other statistically significant results between the experimental and control groups at 2 weeks. An overall comparison of both cohorts revealed a statistically significant increase in endothelial cell number and intimal proliferation by 2 weeks postsurgery.
Conclusion The empty-and-refill test does not compromise rat femoral artery anastomotic patency, nor does it produce histological damage either 48 hours or 2 weeks postsurgery.
Nierenbeteiligung bei Kollagenosen
Authors: Weiner Stefan 
Published: January 2018

AbstractRenal involvement is common and heterogenous in connective tissue diseases and has a main influence on prognosis and mortality. In systemic lupus erythematosus proliferative glomerulonephritis is the most common manifestation, while in primary Sjogren’s syndrome interstitial nephritis with tubular dysfunction is the predominant pathological feature. In systemic sclerosis the most serious renal manifestation is scleroderma renal crisis characterized by abrupt onset of hypertension and acute kidney injury associated with an increase in plasma renin activity. Risk factors for scleroderma renal crisis are diffuse cutaneous involvement, treatment with corticosteroids > 15 mg prednisolone/day and treatment with calcineurin inhibitors.Regular measurement of urine sediment, proteinuria-to-urine creatinine ratio, tubular proteinuria, measurement of plasma creatinine, and office as well as home blood pressure monitoring are strongly recommended. Diagnostic kidney biopsy is essential in differentiating the different types of lupus nephritis and renal involvement in sjogren’s syndrome.The optimal treatment of lupus nephritis varies with the classification of the morphological findings present on renal biopsy. The treatment of interstitial nephritis in sjogren’s syndrome consists of immunosuppression e. g. corticosteroids. Renal tubular acidosis should be corrected by sodium alkali and potassium alkali. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors play a major role in the treatment of scleroderma renal crisis, they should be continued also in patients progressing to end-stage renal disease.