Search

Objective: A subgroup of patients with hamartomatous polyps in the GI tract has a hereditary Hamartomatous Polyposis Syndrome with an increased risk of cancer. The distinction between patients with one or few polyps and patients with a syndrome can be difficult. A pathogenic germline mutation can be detected in a majority of HPS patients. This study investigates whether patients with one or few hamartomatous polyps could have a syndrome based on genetic screening of relevant genes. Methods: We designed a gene panel including 26 hamartomatous polyposis-associated genes. Using targeted Next Generation Sequencing, DNA samples from 77 patients with 84 hamartomatous polyps were sequenced. The detected germline variants were classified into pathogenicity classes. Results: We detected several germline variants, among them three in ENG, two in BMPR1A, one in PTEN, and one in SMAD4. Although some of the detected variants have been reported previously none could be definitely pathogenic or likely pathogenic. Conclusions: Our study points towards that genetic testing for the Hamartomatous Polyposis Syndromes in patients with one or few polyps does not improve diagnostics, however we illustrate that the clinical significance of genetic variants can be difficult to interpret. A family history of polyps, cancer, or extraintestinal findings or a minimum of 3–5 polyps seems to be relevant information to include before genetic testing.

Antioxidant modification for C/C composites by in situ hydrothermal synthesise at 140 °C of a 4ZnO·B2O3·H2O crystallite coating has been successfully achieved. The influence of hydrothermal time on the phase composition, microstructure of the as-prepared Zn4B2O7·H2O (4ZnO·B2O3·H2O), and its antioxidant modification for C/C composites were investigated. Samples were characterised by XRD, SEM, isothermal oxidation test and TG-DSC. Results show that, 4ZnO·B2O3·H2O crystalline coating is achieved on the surface of C/C composites after the hydrothermal treatment at 140 °C for time in the range of 2–12 h. A smooth and crack-free 4ZnO·B2O3·H2O layer can be obtained when the hydrothermal time reaches 8 h. Isothermal oxidation test demonstrates that the oxidation resistance of C/C composites is improved. The as-modified composites exhibit only 1.52 g·cm−2 weight loss after oxidation at 600 °C for 15 h, while the non-modified one shows a 6.57 g·cm−2 weight loss after only 10 h oxidation. For the uncoated C/C composite the oxidation rate is approximately linear with time (non-protective oxidation), thus at 15 h exposure one can estimate the mass loss to be 6.57 g·cm−2 after 10 h for direct comparison with the coated samples.

Background: Manual delineation of structures in head and neck cancers is an extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive procedure. With centers worldwide moving towards the use of intensity-modulated radiotherapy and adaptive radiotherapy, there is a need to explore and analyze auto-segmentation (AS) software, in the search for a faster yet accurate method of structure delineation. Material and methods: A search for studies published after 2005 comparing AS and manual delineation in contouring organ at risks (OARs) and target volume for head and neck patients was conducted. The reviewed results were then categorized into arguments proposing and opposing the review title. Results: Ten studies were reviewed and derived results were assessed in terms of delineation time-saving ability and extent of delineation accuracy. The influence of other external factors (observer variability, AS strategies adopted and stage of disease) were also considered. Results were conflicting with some studies demonstrating great potential in replacing manual delineation whereas other studies illustrated otherwise. Six of 10 studies investigated time saving; the largest time saving reported being 59%. However, one study found that additional time of 15.7% was required for AS. Four studies reported AS contours to be between ‘reasonably good’ and ‘better quality’ than the clinically used contours. Remaining studies cited lack of contrast, AS strategy used and the need for physician intervention as limitations in the standardized use of AS. Discussion: The studies demonstrated significant potential of AS as a useful delineation tool in contouring target volumes and OARs in head and neck cancers. However, it is evident that AS cannot totally replace manual delineation in contouring some structures in the head and neck and cannot be used independently without human intervention. It is also emphasized that delineation studies should be conducted locally so a

Near-infrared (NIR) and X-ray fluorescence spectra were recorded for 15 different samples of marmora, from the Mediterranean Basin and of different colours. After appropriate pretreatment (SNV transform + second derivative), the results were subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) treatment with a view to differentiating them. The observed differences among the samples were chemically interpreted by highlighting the NIR wavelengths and minerals, respectively, contributing the most to the PCA models. Moreover, a mid-level data fusion protocol allowed integrating the information from the different techniques and, in particular, to correctly identify (based on the distance in the score space) three test samples of known type. Moreover, it should be stressed that positive results on the differentiation and identification of marmora were obtained using two completely non-invasive, non-destructive and relatively inexpensive techniques, which can also be used in situ.

The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and measurement agreement of a smartphone pedometer application and a traditional pedometer, both compared to manual step count, in six environments. The study also examined the relative reliability of two positions of the smartphone pedometer application in the six environments. Twenty participants carried two smartphones (iPhone 4S) with the same pedometer application (Pedometer FREE GPS+) in two device positions together with a traditional pedometer (Yamax LS2000) while walking in six environments. The pedometer application in the chest position (app chest) differed significantly from the manual step count when walking uphill (p = 0.003), the application in the trouser (pants) position (app pants) differed for downhill (p = 0.001) and the traditional pedometer (trad ped) differed upstairs (p = 0.007). The measurement agreement was high for app pants uphill, app chest downhill and trad ped downstairs. The relative reliability was fair for app chest, but poor for app pants. In conclusion, the pedometer application and traditional pedometer were valid for step self-monitoring in some environments, and the measurement agreement compared to manual step count was mainly medium to high. The relative reliability for the smartphone pedometer application was partly acceptable. Smartphones could be useful in some environments for physical activity self-monitoring.

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop a theory-based questionnaire to measure road-crossing attitudes and potentially risky pedestrian behavior. Methods: A cross sectional validation study was carried out on a total sample of 380 young adults aged 18 to 25 years who live in Tehran, Iran. Data was collected during 27 Jan to 20 May 2015 using a self-administered structured pool of 76 items which was developed from research on Theory of Planned Behavior. A panel of subject matter experts evaluated the items for content validity index and content validity ratio and the questionnaire was pretested. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed to test construct validity. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) analyses were done to assess internal consistency and stability of the scale. Results: From the initial 76 items, 38 items were found to be appropriate for assessing the Pedestrian Road Crossing Behavior (PEROB) of young adults in Tehran. A nine-factor solution revealed an exploratory factor analysis that jointly accounted for 63.8% of the variance observed. Additional analyses also indicated acceptable results for the internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha value ranging from 0.67 to 0.88 and Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) values ranging from 0.64 to 0.96. Conclusions: This psychometric evaluation of a self-administered instrument resulted in a reliable and valid instrument to assess young adult pedestrians' self-reported road crossing attitudes and behaviors in Tehran. Further development of the instrument is needed to assess its applicability to other road users, particularly older pedestrians.

Approaches and programs for calculations of the EPR g-tensor in the framework of the two- and four-component methods are still very rare. There are three main reasons for this: the wider community's unawareness of the importance of second- and higher order spin–orbit effects on the g-tensor, the methodological problems associated with performing such calculations and the lack of understanding of these problems. This paper reports on the implementation of a method for calculation of the g-tensor in the framework of the relativistic unrestricted two- and four-component Hartree–Fock and density functional theory approaches based on the Kramers pair formalism. This implementation allows us to analyse problems which arise when the g-tensor is calculated via Kramers pairs in the unrestricted framework.

Three metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), [Cd3(OABDC)2(e-urea)4]n (1), [Cd3(OABDC)2(H2O)5)]n (2) and [Cd2Ba(OABDC)2(H2O)7]n (3) (H3OABDC = 5-oxyacetate isophthalic acid, e-urea = 2-imidazolidinone), were prepared using H3OABDC and metal salts. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses reveal that 1 features a 2D layered structure constructed from trinuclear {Cd3(COO)6} SBUs and represents a (3,6)-connected kgd topology. Compounds 2 and 3 are 3D inorganic-organic hybrid frameworks; 2 employs infinite inorganic -Cd-O-Cd- chains as SBUs, whereas (3,6)-connected ant-type 3 employs heterometallic trinuclear {Cd2Ba(COO)4} clusters as SBUs. The structures of these three compounds indicate that the SBUs play an important role in the construction of MOFs. Moreover, the thermal stabilities and solid-state photoluminescent properties of these three compounds have also been investigated.

Objective: Violation of traffic rules is a major contributing factor of both crashes and fatalities in the United States. This study aims at quantifying risk drivers pose to themselves and other drivers by violating traffic rules. Method: The crash data from 2010 to 2013 was gathered for the state of North Carolina. Descriptive analysis was carried out to identify frequent traffic violations and who were committing the traffic violations that resulted in crashes. Multinomial logit model was then developed to examine the relation between different traffic violations and driver injury severity. Additionally, odds ratio was estimated to identify the likelihood (probability) of severe or moderate injury to the driver and other drivers due to a driver violating a traffic rule that led to a crash. Results: Exceeding speed limit is more likely to result in severe injury to themselves when compared to their own injury due to disregarding traffic signals. However, going wrong way is more likely to result in severe injury to other drivers when compared to any other traffic violation. Driving under the influence of alcohol is two times more likely to result in severe injury to themselves than driving under the influence of drugs. These two traffic violations by a driver are, almost, equally likely to result in severe injury to other drivers. Conclusions: Often times, drivers perceive that violating traffic rules does not result in a crash or severe injury. However, the results from this study show that a majority of the traffic violations lead to severe injury to themselves as well as to other drivers. The findings from this study serve as documented evidence to educate drivers about the risk they pose to themselves and to other drivers by violating traffic rules and encourage the adaptation of safe driving behavior in order to contribute towards reaching the “zero traffic deaths” vision. They also help make policy changes pe

A simple and efficient method was developed for simultaneous analysis of five illegal residual β2-agonists in cattle hair. β2-Agonists were quantified by ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry operating in positive multiple-reaction monitoring mode. The method was validated as quantitative confirmatory method according to the EU Decision 2002/657/EC: instrumental linearity, specificity, precision, recovery, decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) were evaluated. The recovery were greater than 90% and the method appeared suitable for the control of these β2-agonists in cattle hair samples with LOQ values between 4.9 and 5.5 μg/kg. This method could represent a simple and cheap approach to confirm β2-agonists contamination of cattle for feeding in a not invasive way and before slaughter operations.

A two-phase membrane extraction in a hollow fibre contactor with feed-stream recycle was applied to remove selected pesticides (tebufenozide, linuron, imidacloprid, acetamiprid and dimethoate) from their mixed aqueous solutions. The contactor consisted of 50 polypropylene hollow fibers impregnated with 5% tri-n-octylphosphine oxide in di-n-hexyl ether. For low polar pesticides with log P ˃ 2 (tebufenozide and linuron), the maximum removal efficiency increased linearly from 85 to 96% with increasing the feed flow rate. The maximum removal efficiencies of more polar pesticides were significantly higher under feed recirculation (86%) than in a continuous single pass operation (30%). It was found from the Wilson's plot that the mass transfer resistance of the liquid membrane can be neglected for low polar pesticides. The pesticide removals from commercial formulations were similar to those from pure pesticide solutions, indicating that built-in adjuvants did not affect the extraction process. Supplementary_material.docx

Over the past three decades the freshwater diatom Didymosphenia geminata (Lyngbye) M. Schmidt has expanded its range globally. In some rivers D. geminata has become invasive, forming expansive and thick polysaccharide-dominated mats. Techniques to maintain and study D. geminata in the laboratory are limited. In this study, a 96-well plate format assay using pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorometry was developed to study D. geminata under controlled conditions. The PAM assay and morphological assessments were used to investigate the addition of sodium nitrate (NaNO3) to a previously developed D. geminata-specific growth medium (Didymo Medium; DM). Addition of low concentrations (ca. 0.003–0.018 µM) enhanced cell survival and health. Central-composite design (CCD) experiments coupled with response surface methodology were then used to investigate optimal concentrations of six key chemicals in DM (magnesium sulphate, calcium chloride, mono-potassium phosphate, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, ferric sodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and NaNO3). An optimised DM recipe is provided. The PAM assay was also used to analyse the influence of maintaining D. geminata cells in river waters sourced from locations with and without the diatom. A NaNO3 spiking experiment was undertaken using water from one location. The maximum quantum yields of cells maintained in all river waters remained relatively constant and higher than those maintained in DM or Milli-Q water for the seven day test period. The results of the NaNO3 river water spiking experiment provided contrasting results to the culture medium trials, with minimal impact on photosynthetic efficiency. These data, coupled with the results of the CCD experiment, suggest complex interactions among nutrients that have varying effects on D. geminata cell health. Together with microscopical observations, the 96-well plate

Eight bicyclic amidinium precursors (3), prepared from R,S-tmcp (R,S-tmcp: (1R,3S)-diamino-1,2,2-trimethylcyclopentane) were described. Only five of the precursors (3a–e) could be converted to palladium complexes, (PdX2(6,7-NHC)PEPPSI) (4) by treatment with PdCl2, K2CO3, and pyridine (additional KBr was used for (PdBr2(6,7-NHC)PEPPSI)). The salts and complexes were fully characterized by spectroscopic methods and X-ray crystallography.

This work describes design of a series of new paddle-wheel binuclear clusters containing two-dimensional (2-D) coordination polymers based on ditopic carboxylate linkers, 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (BDC) or 2-amino,1,4-benzenedicarboxylate (Am-BDC). The strategic use of strongly coordinating base/solvent as blocking ligand to restrict the structure in 2-D space is explored and the role of organic base on the overall structure formation is further elaborated. The isostructural [Zn(BDC)(Py)]n (1) and [Co(BDC(Py)]n (2) were formed by the use of strong base pyridine (Py) as a blocking ligand whereas reaction using N-methylimidazole (Mim) in place of pyridine gives [Co(BDC)(Mim)]n (3) with similar topology and coordination environment. The use of weak/noncoordinating base such as 2-chloropyrimidine, pyrazine and tetramethylammoniumhexafluorophosphate [(CH3)4N(PF6)] gives the DMF coordinated 2-D frameworks, [Cu(BDC)(DMF)]n (4), [Zn(BDC)(DMF)]n (5) and [Zn(AmBDC)(DMF)]n (6). All the structures crystallize in monoclinic crystal system yielding 2-D nets with square grid 44 topology and solid state 3-D structure via extensive non-covalent supramolecular interactions. Surface area analysis via N2 adsorption of three representative 2-D coordination polymers, 1, 4 and 6, indicate that 4 has a surface area of 450 m2/g, which is a signature of microporosity while 1 and 6 have moderate (161.6 m2/g) and negligible (33 m2/g) surface area, respectively.

Multireference configuration interaction method was used in order to generate accurate potential energy curves of the OH, SH, OH− and SH− electronic states correlating to the three lowest dissociation limits. These curves were used in addition with core–valence correlation and scalar relativistic corrections for the calculations of accurate spectroscopic constants of bound states, which generally are found in excellent agreement with best available experimental and theoretical values in the literature. The spin–orbit interactions between electronic states have been calculated for the cases in which the couplings were assumed to be responsible for perturbations and used to explain the predissociation of A2Σ+ state of OH and SH by dissociative states 14Σ−, 12Σ− and 1 4Π. Dipole moment functions were also computed along internuclear distances and used to explain polarity of these molecules in different calculated electronic states. In addition, stability and metastability of electronic states (X 1Σ+, A1Π and a3Π) of OH− and SH− molecular anions have been studied relatively to curves of neutral parent electronic states. Finally, we have computed adiabatic electron affinity of OH and SH and these values have been found in very good agreement with the best experimental values and resort as among the best achieved values.

An efficient, four-component, one-pot condensation reaction among phthalimide or phthalic anhydride, aromatic aldehydes, and ethyl cyanoacetate for the synthesis of 1H-pyrazolo[1, 2-b]phthalazine-5, 10-dione derivatives mediated by L-proline in excellent yields is reported.

Objective: People with accurate representations of their own cognitive functioning (i.e. cognitive self-awareness) tend to use appropriate strategies to regulate their behavior. Due to the lack of appropriate instruments, few studies have examined the development of this ability among children. Method: This study tested the measurement properties of the self-rating and other-rating forms of the Questionnaire of Executive Functioning (QEF), designed to tap children’s knowledge of their executive functioning. Specifically, the construct, convergent, and discriminant validities were investigated and a self-other discrepancy score was computed to assess children’s executive self-awareness. Participants were 317 children aged 7–14 years old. Results: Confirmatory factor analyses carried out on the QEF confirmed the eight-factor structure of both versions. There were significant correlations between the QEF and the parent versions of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, the Dysexecutive Questionnaire for Children, and the Childhood Executive Functioning Inventory. Both forms of the QEF were able to distinguish between children who had sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and control participants. A statistical difference was observed between the TBI and control groups on this score, suggesting that TBI may trigger self-awareness impairments in children. Conclusion: The good psychometric properties of the two forms of the QEF were established. Furthermore, results of the analyses carried out on the different discrepancy scores seem to indicate that the QEF could help clinicians to detect patients with self-awareness deficits.

Purpose: Children with speech sound disorders (SSD) find polysyllables difficult; however, routine sampling and measurement of speech accuracy are insufficient to describe polysyllable accuracy and maturity. This study had two aims: (1) compare two speech production tasks and (2) describe polysyllable errors within the Framework of Polysyllable Maturity. Method: Ninety-three preschool children with SSD from the Sound Start Study (4;0–5;5 years) completed the Polysyllable Preschool Test (POP) and the Diagnostic Evaluation of Articulation and Phonology (DEAP-Phonology). Result: Vowel accuracy was significantly different between the POP and the DEAP-Phonology. Polysyllables were analysed using the seven Word-level Analysis of Polysyllables (WAP) error categories: (1) substitution of consonants or vowels (97.8% of children demonstrated common use), (2) deletion of syllables, consonants or vowels (65.6%), (3) distortion of consonants or vowels (0.0%), (4) addition of consonants or vowels (0.0%), (5) alteration of phonotactics (77.4%), (6) alteration of timing (63.4%) and (7) assimilation or alteration of sequence (0.0%). The Framework of Polysyllable Maturity described five levels of maturity based on children’s errors. Conclusions: Polysyllable productions of preschool children with SSD can be analysed and categorised using the WAP and interpreted using the Framework of Polysyllable Maturity.

Silica-modified magnetite-polyoxometalates functionalized with sulfamic acid groups as hybrid nanoparticles were prepared by sulfonation of diamine-functionalized propyl group grafted on the magnetic silica-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles. This heterogeneous nanocatalyst was explored to present high catalytic performance for the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidinones and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans under mild reaction conditions. The properties of this nanocatalyst were characterized by FT- infrared, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrum, scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and elemental analysis. Easy separation of the nanocatalyst by using an external magnet, recyclability, non-toxicity, versatility and high stability of the catalyst combined with low reaction times and excellent yields make the present protocol very useful and attractive for the synthesis of the titled products.

Due to oil refining, commonly used higher boiling biomarkers for oil-source correlation are absent from mid-range petroleum distillates, while lighter biomarkers are concentrated in such products. This study evaluated 63 diagnostic ratios of light biomarkers such as bicyclic sesquiterpanes, diamondoids, and lighter aromatic compounds using 70 diesel oil samples obtained from three Swedish refineries and local gas stations, mostly over a six-month period in 2015. On the basis of their diagnostic power and partial correlation coefficients, a set of 24 ratios is suggested for oil-source correlation of lighter products. The frequency of false positives for this set was determined to be approximately 0.1%. It should be emphasized that in the event of an oil spill, diesel oils are rapidly influenced by weathering and many of the ratios will be affected.

Chlorpyrifos is a commonly used organophosphate pesticide. Its extensive use and associated serious soil and water contamination have gained increasing environmental concern. Biodegradation is a promising way to remediate chlorpyrifos contamination. There are many reports on various chlorpyrifos degrading microorganisms, but only a few on biodegradation of chlorpyrifos by consortia. Hence, the present study attempted to assemble a novel bacterial consortium C5 for biodegradation of chlorpyrifos. The 16S rRNA gene-based molecular analysis revealed that the bacterial consortium consisted of Staphylococcus warneri CPI2, Pseudomonas putida CPI 9 and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia CPI 15. Optimization of chlorpyrifos degradation by the consortium C5, using a Box-Behnken design was carried out taking into account four important variables temperature, pH, the initial concentration of chlorpyrifos and time of incubation. C5 is capable of giving 90% degradation of chlorpyrifos (125 ppm) in eight days of incubation under optimized conditions of pH (7) and temperature (30 °C). Growth curve and degradation study under optimized conditions confirmed that consortium can improve the biodegradation potential. From these results, we conclude that the novel consortium C5 of three species can be used to eliminate chlorpyrifos from various environmental compartments and implemented in bioreactors in a cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly manner.

There is scarce information regarding ambulatory blood pressure (BP) achieved in daily practice with a wide range of antihypertensive drug combinations. We looked for differences in office and ambulatory BP among major drug combinations of two and three antihypertensive agents from a different drugs class. A total of 17187 patients treated with six types of two-drug combinations and 9724 treated with six types of three-drug combinations from the Spanish ABPM Registry were analyzed. We compared achieved office and ambulatory BP, as well as office (< 140/90 mmHg) and ambulatory (24-hour BP < 130/80; day BP < 135/85, and night BP < 120/70 mmHg) BP control among groups. The combination of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers with diuretics and the triple combination of RAS blockers with diuretics and calcium channel blockers (CCB) were associated with lower values of 24-hour, daytime and nighttime BP, as well as more pronounced nocturnal BP dip. Compared with such combinations (reference), other double combinations had lower rates of ambulatory BP control. Moreover, triple combinations containing alpha blockers also had lower rates of ambulatory BP control. We conclude that even with similar office BP control, differences exist among antihypertensive two-drug and three-drug combinations with respect to ambulatory BP control achieved during treatment, with RAS blockers/diuretics and RAS blockers/CCBs/diuretics obtaining better control rates. This can help physicians choose among drug combinations in order to obtain further ambulatory BP reductions.

An efficient pathway for the synthesis of the aminobenzophenone derivatives via Friedel–Crafts benzoylation using copper triflate as catalyst is proposed. New derivatives are synthesized. The copper triflate could be easily recovered and reused without loss of catalytic activity. Both the use of ionic liquids and microwave heating turned out to be fruitful.

Penicillic acid was isolated from Aspergillus sclerotiorum and converted into 6-iodo-α-pyran-2,5-diones using iodolactonization, a key intermediate for the synthesis of pectinolide F. Structures of penicillic acid and its iodolactonized product were confirmed by using NMR experiments.

The lanthanum-based metal macrocyclic framework, MMCF-3, where the ligand is 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N’,N’’,N’’’-tetra-p-methylbenzoic acid, has been synthesized and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, single crystal X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. MMCF-3 forms in closely-packed two-dimensional sheets. In MMCF-3, the azamacrocyclic-based ligand coordinates tetradentate to four separate lanthanum ions via its carboxylate groups, leaving the macrocycle site unoccupied. The lanthanum ions are ten-coordinate with a distorted bi-capped square anti-prism coordination environment. The vacancy of the macrocycle site within the framework encourages the utilization of the framework as a cation receptor. The availability of these sites allows for the possibility to coordinate to newly introduced metals to produce heterometallic frameworks, which could exhibit intriguing properties.

APOBEC3A cytidine deaminase induces site-specific C-to-U RNA editing of hundreds of genes in monocytes exposed to hypoxia and/or interferons and in pro-inflammatory macrophages. To examine the impact of APOBEC3A overexpression, we transiently expressed APOBEC3A in HEK293T cell line and performed RNA sequencing. APOBEC3A overexpression induces C-to-U editing at more than 4,200 sites in transcripts of 3,078 genes resulting in protein recoding of 1,110 genes. We validate recoding RNA editing of genes associated with breast cancer, hematologic neoplasms, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer disease and primary pulmonary hypertension. These results highlight the fundamental impact of APOBEC3A overexpression on human transcriptome by widespread RNA editing.

A novel drug delivery system was developed through the modification of MSNs (mesoporous silica nanoparticles) with β-CD (β-Cyclodextrin). The experiment results demonstrated that the cytotoxicity of this drug delivery system was very low, and the doxorubicin loading ratio was ~27.36%. The behaviour of drug release was pH dependent and it can be used as the drug controlling releasing in cancer cell. The combination of doxorubicin and this drug delivery system (MSN-NH2-CD-Biotin) could arrest the cancer cell in G2 phase, and it could make the cancer cell apoptosis by doxorubicin more effectively.

With the increased production and widespread commercial use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), human and environmental exposures to silver nanoparticles are inevitably increasing. In particular, persons manufacturing and handling silver nanoparticles and silver nanoparticle containing products are at risk of exposure, potentially resulting in health hazards. While silver dusts, consisting of micro-sized particles and soluble compounds have established occupational exposure limits (OELs), silver nanoparticles exhibit different physicochemical properties from bulk materials. Therefore, we assessed silver nanoparticle exposure and related health hazards in order to determine whether an additional OEL may be needed. Dosimetric evaluations in our study identified the liver as the most sensitive target organ following inhalation exposure, and as such serves as the critical target organ for setting an occupational exposure standard for airborne silver nanoparticles. This study proposes an OEL of 0.19 μg/m3 for silver nanoparticles derived from benchmark concentrations (BMCs) from subchronic rat inhalation toxicity assessments and the human equivalent concentration (HEC) with kinetic considerations and additional uncertainty factors. It is anticipated that this level will protect workers from potential health hazards, including lung, liver, and skin damage.

A 5′-tailed duplex (TD) DNA corrects a base-substitution mutation. In this study, the effects of insertion and deletion (indel) mismatches distant from the target position on the gene correction were examined. Three target plasmid DNAs with and without indel mismatches ∼330 bases distant from the correction target position were prepared, and introduced into HeLa cells together with the TD. The indel mismatches improved the gene correction efficiency and specificity without sequence conversions at the indel mismatch site. These results suggested that the gene correction efficiency and specificity are increased when an appropriate second mismatch is introduced into the TD fragment.

We measured real-time and integrated PM2.5 inside 8 occupied single-family homes in Fresno, California to evaluate how turbulent air mixing and pollutant removal caused by a filter-based air purifier influences the levels of fine particles in everyday indoor environments. In each home, we used a real-time monitor to log PM2.5 levels every 5 min over 12 weeks during which air purifiers were operating, except for a designed 3-day shutdown period for baseline measurements. We assessed how the operation of air purifiers changed the patterns of the frequency distributions for short-term (5-min) concentrations, which included spikes produced by sporadic indoor activities or emissions. This allowed us to examine the reduction effectiveness of air purifiers on concentrations of both recently-emitted and well-mixed background aerosols. We observed a systematic change in the 5-min PM2.5 distributions in different homes - while air purifiers reduced 96% of the 5-min concentrations, they increased the magnitudes of the top 4%, representing transient concentration peaks. This phenomenon is consistent with what would be theoretically expected based on passive scalar turbulence in fluid physics. We also collected gravimetric filter samples for PM2.5 composition, finding mean reductions of the long-term (2–5 day) concentrations of 29–37% for indoor PM2.5 and endotoxin. A less significant reduction (19–26%) was seen for Pb (Lead).

A new type of sulfoxide, 4-(2-(2-(methylsulfinyl) ethyl)-4-nitrophenyl)- morpholine (I), was designed and prepared in good yield. Upon the combination of I and bis(trichloromethyl)carbonate, the Swern oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols was significantly promoted under mild conditions, which afforded the corresponding aldehydes or ketones in good yields. It is noteworthy that the reoxidation of the isolated by-product sulfide V could be further recycled in Swern oxidation.

Ferromagnetic materials such as Fe3O4-based magnetized functional materials have been widely investigated, and they are believed to be easily pulled apart by magnetic separation. However, paramagnetic materials, such as ferric hydroxides, which are cost-effective and highly-efficient, have been little studied in relation to the magnetic separation process. In this study, freshly formed hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) sols were used to remove aqueous phosphate, followed by superconducting magnetic separation. The magnetization of HFO was determined to be 5.7 emu/g in 5.0 T. The particle size distributions ranged from 1 to 80 μm. Ferrihydrite was the primary mineral phase according to XRD analysis. Dissolved P (DP) was first adsorbed on HFO, and second, the P-containing HFO were separated by high gradient superconducting magnetic separation (HGSMS) to remove the Total P (TP). To obtain a P concentration of <0.05 mg/l in the effluent, 0.3, 1.0 and 1.3 g/l HFO were added to 2.5, 5 and 10 mg/l P solutions. The capacity of the HGSMS canister for capturing P-adsorbed HFO depends on the magnetic intensity and flow rate. In the 5.0 T HGSMS at a 1.0 cm/s flow rate, there were 75 column volumes in a single HGSMS cycle. The P concentration increased by 37.5 times after regeneration. Approximately 170 mg/l TP was measured in the backwash water. The processing capacity of an industry-scale superconducting magnetic separator was evaluated to be approximately 78.0 m3/h or 65×104 m3/a. The processing costs per ton of water were calculated to be 0.2-0.3 $/t. supplement material

The reduction of Cr(VI) by the metal-reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 was evaluated, to determine the potential for exploiting Cr(VI) bioreduction as a means of treating chromate conversion coating (CCC) waste streams. Inclusion of Cr(VI) at concentrations ≥1 mM inhibited aerobic growth of S. oneidensis, but that organism was able to reduce Cr(VI) at a concentration of up to 1 mM under anaerobic, nongrowth conditions. S. oneidensis reduced Cr(VI) in the presence of common CCC constituents, with the exception of ferricyanide, when these CCC constituents were included at concentrations typical of CCC waste streams. Ferricyanide inhibited neither aerobic growth nor metabolism under aerobic, nitrate- or iron-reducing conditions, suggesting that the ferricyanide-depended inhibition of Cr(VI) reduction is not due to broad metabolic inhibition, but is specific to Cr(VI) reduction. Results indicate that under some conditions, the activities of metal-reducing bacteria, such as S. oneidensis, could be exploited for the removal of Cr(VI) from CCC waste streams under appropriate conditions.

We present a study of buzzing sounds of several common species of bumblebees, with the focus on automatic classification of bumblebee species and types. Such classification is useful for bumblebee monitoring, which is important in view of evaluating the quality of their living environment and protecting the biodiversity of these important pollinators. We analysed natural buzzing frequencies for queens and workers of 12 species. In addition, we analysed changes in buzzing of Bombus hypnorum worker for different types of behaviour. We developed a bumblebee classification application using machine learning algorithms. We extracted audio features from sound recordings using a large feature library. We used the best features to train a classification model, with Random Forest proving to be the best training algorithm on the testing set of samples. The web and mobile application also allows expert users to upload new recordings that can be later used to improve the classification model and expand it to include more species.

An attempt has been made to identify plausible groundwater potential zones (GWPZ) based on Grey Analytic Hierarchy Process Method (Grey-AHP) using integrated remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS). Grey-AHP combines the advantages of classical analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and grey clustering method for accurate estimation of weight coefficients. The method also examines the effectiveness of GWPZ identification process. The proposed methodology has been applied to the Hirakud canal command area, Odisha (India). Feature layers [e.g., soil type, geology] are utilized for groundwater potential index (GWPI) calculation. The resulting GWPI map has been classified into three GWPZ namely: good, moderate and poor. Effectiveness based on grey clustering method is found to be in between “better” and “common” classes. Value of coefficient of determination (R2= 0.865) supports the obtained effectiveness evaluation result. This analysis demonstrates the potential applicability of the methodology for a general aquifer system.

A series of polar silicones was synthesized in order to compare their dielectric properties. Different substituents with high dipole moment (epoxy, pyridyl, aldehyde, cyano-, nitroazobenzene) were attached by hydrosilylation to a poly(dimethyl-methylhydro)siloxane. Thiol-ene addition on a dimethyl-methylvinyl siloxane copolymer with similar composition was also used for chemical modifications with chloro- or carboxy- derivatives. This approach allowed comparison of properties with emphasis on dielectric behavior measured in liquid state, as a preliminary step in design and preparation of materials suitable for dielectric elastomers. Although a relatively low content of polar groups was used (8%), permittivity values of 5.4 and even 7.4 were achieved (at 10 kHz), either due to the large dipole moment or to the presence of important amounts of moisture. The water sorption capacity of the polar silicones was investigated by dynamic vapor sorption, while structural parameters of model molecules were calculated, in order to correlate the dielectric properties with the polarity/hydrophilicity of the substituents to the silicone chain. A combined effect of the calculated dipole moment, molar polarizability, molar volume, and the measured water sorption capacity on dielectric permittivity was observed.

A highly cross-linked composite dextran-based scaffold (named DexFoam) was tailored to overcome specific deficiencies of polymeric and ceramic bone scaffolds and to guarantee a bone-mimicking microenvironment for the proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. The creep resistance for up to 90% compressive stain, the capability to regain the original shape after deformation and the good thermal stability in both physiological and “body limit” conditions make DexFoam a valid alternative to the currently available bone scaffolds. Histopathological evaluation for host reaction and tissue colonization of DexFoam scaffold, implanted subcutaneously in mice, demonstrated its in vivo biocompatibility and biodegradability.