bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of CMS‐based nonuniform interconnects using FDTD technique
Authors: Kolanti Tulasi Naga Jyothi , Vemu Sulochana , Vobulapuram Ramesh Kumar , Karumuri Srinivasa Rao
Published: October 2018

This paper presents the finite‐difference time‐domain model of nonuniform interconnects including skin effect losses based on the current mode signaling (CMS). For accurate analysis, the nonlinear CMOS inverter is used as a driver for coupled nonuniform interconnects. These effects are incorporated in the proposed model using the modified alpha power law model. Additionally, high‐frequency losses are incorporated in the proposed model that further improves the accuracy. Using the proposed model, the performance of nonuniform interconnects is investigated using the CMS scheme. Time‐domain analysis model is derived from CMS nonuniform interconnects using finite‐difference time‐domain technique. Both inductive and capacitive couplings have been considered to incorporate coupling effects in interconnects. The efficiency of CMS interconnects is evaluated by comparing with conventional voltage mode signaling interconnects. The propagation delays and dynamic and functional cross talk effects at the far end of the coupled nonuniform interconnect are analyzed at the 32‐nm technology node. The proposed model results are validated using the standard HSPICE simulations.
cytometree: A binary tree algorithm for automatic gating in cytometry analysis
Authors: Commenges Daniel , Alkhassim Chariff , Gottardo Raphael , Hejblum Boris , Thiébaut Rodolphe
Published: October 2018

Flow cytometry is a powerful technology that allows the high‐throughput quantification of dozens of surface and intracellular proteins at the single‐cell level. It has become the most widely used technology for immunophenotyping of cells over the past three decades. Due to the increasing complexity of cytometry experiments (more cells and more markers), traditional manual flow cytometry data analysis has become untenable due to its subjectivity and time‐consuming nature. We present a new unsupervised algorithm called “cytometree” to perform automated population identification (aka gating) in flow cytometry. cytometree is based on the construction of a binary tree, the nodes of which are subpopulations of cells. At each node, the marker distributions are modeled by mixtures of normal distributions. Node splitting is done according to a model selection procedure based on a normalized difference of Akaike information criteria between two competing models. Post‐processing of the tree structure and derived populations allows us to complete the annotation of the populations. The algorithm is shown to perform better than the state‐of‐the‐art unsupervised algorithms previously proposed on panels introduced by the Flow Cytometry: Critical Assessment of Population Identification Methods project. The algorithm is also applied to a T‐cell panel proposed by the Human Immunology Project Consortium (HIPC) program; it also outperforms the best unsupervised open‐source available algorithm while requiring the shortest computation time. © 2018 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Combining fluorescent cell barcoding and flow cytometry‐based phospho‐ERK1/2 detection at short time scales in adherent cells
Authors: Manohar Sonal , Shah Prachi , Biswas Sharmila , Mukadam Anam , Joshi Madhura , Viswanathan Ganesh
Published: October 2018

Detection of levels of intracellular phospho‐proteins is key to analyzing the dynamics of signal transduction in cellular systems. Cell‐to‐cell variability in the form of differences in protein level in each cell affects signaling and is implicated in prognosis of many diseases. Quantitative analysis of such variability necessitate measuring the protein levels at single‐cell resolution. Single‐cell intracellular protein abundance detection in statistically significant number of adherent cells for short time sampling points post stimulation using classical flow cytometry (FCM) technique has thus far been a challenge due to the detrimental effects of cell detachment methods on the cellular machinery. We systematically show that cell suspension obtained by noninvasive temperature‐sensitive detachment of adherent cells is amenable to high‐throughput phospho‐ERK1/2 protein detection at single‐cell level using FCM in these short time sampling points. We demonstrate this on three adherent cell lines, viz., HeLa, A549, and MCF7, from distinct lineages having characteristically different elasticity at 37 °C. In particular, we use a right combination of multiplexing via fluorescent cell barcoding (FCB) and intracellular antibody staining for simultaneous detection of phospho‐ERK1/2 (pERK) stimulated by epidermal growth factor (EGF) in multiple samples. Based on systematic characterization using Alexa 350 dye, we arrive at two conditions that must be satisfied for correct implementation of FCB. Our study reveals that the temperature‐sensitive detachment of HeLa cells correctly captures the expected pronounced bimodal pERK distribution as an early response to EGF, which the enzymatic treatment methods fail to detect. © 2018 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Antiviral compound screening, peptide designing, and protein network construction of influenza a virus (strain a/Puerto Rico/8/1934 H1N1)
Authors: Saikia Surovi , Bordoloi Manobjyoti , Sarmah Rajeev , Kolita Bhaskor
Published: October 2018

Plant‐based antiviral therapy is the current need for holistic health care management, which can be achieved through screening of phytochemicals and designing of antiviral peptides. There exist certain host's factors which are directly involved for rapid viral replication causing worldwide pandemic. A total of 177 phytochemicals from Ocimum sanctum (L.), Tinospora cordifolia (Thunb.) Miers, Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl., Allium sativum (L.), Curcuma longa (L.), and Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. were evaluated for their affinity to all viral proteins of H1N1. Applying drug filters and keeping the threshold of such filters relative to the standards, 82 compounds were found suitable for further analysis. Consensus scoring system was used for screening top ligands from 82 compounds, which screened the top 12 compounds. Highly conserved regions (>80%) which were hydrophilic, flexible, antigenic, and also charged were screened out as potent antiviral peptides. The viral proteins were taken as the targets for the modeled peptides for protein–protein docking. Further, host‐pathogen interacting network was constructed to unveil host factors involved in viral replication, from which unique protein clusters representing their involvement in viral reproduction were selected through mapping with pathway databases. Twelve compounds and five peptides were found to be highly effective against all the proteins of H1N1. Based on the uniqueness, 13 clusters of proteins were obtained which are engaged in cellular process, namely, viral reproduction, fructose‐6‐phosphate metabolism, nitrogen compound metabolism, biosynthesis, cellular process, oligodendrocyte development, localization, multiorganism process, primary metabolism, response to unfolded protein, metabolism, and response to protein and catabolism.
Developmental trajectories of adaptive functioning following early mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Dégeilh Fanny , Bernier Annie , Gravel Jocelyn , Beauchamp Miriam H.
Published: October 2018

Adaptive behavior impairments have been reported in children with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) but are not typically found following mild TBI. It is possible that mild TBI induces subtle changes in adaptive functioning that are not captured in conventional group comparisons. This study aimed to explore time course changes in adaptive functioning following early mild TBI. Parents of 63 children with mild TBI and 53 children with orthopedic injuries aged between 1.5 and 5 years at the time of injury completed the Adaptive Behavior Assessment System‐II at three time points: retrospectively to assess pre‐injury functioning, then at 6 and 18 months post‐injury. Developmental trajectories of adaptive functioning domains (practical, conceptual, and social) reported by parents were modeled using linear mixed‐model analyses. Findings suggest that mild TBI may disrupt the expected developmental progression of children's social adaptive behavior, but does not appear to alter practical and conceptual domains.
Creatinine excretion in consecutive urine samples after controlled ingestion of water
Authors: Franz Simon , Skopp Gisela , Boettcher Michael , Musshoff Frank
Published: October 2018

Highly diluted urine is among the most commonly observed factors affecting the validity of urine testing for drug abuse. A minimum creatinine concentration of 20 mg/dL urine has been proposed as a marker for dilution of a urine sample. This study investigates the effect of water consumption on creatinine concentration, as well as its effect on specific gravity and osmolality. In this study, 22 subjects (17 women and 5 men) were included to determine the influence of sex and weight on the impact of excessive water consumption on these markers of urine dilution. The subjects consumed 0.5 L, 1.0 L, and 1.5 L of water, respectively, within 15 minutes. The mean minimum creatinine concentrations (Jaffé reaction) for the void 2 hours after fluid intake were 60.4 mg/dL, 15.8 mg/dL, and 10.9 mg/dL for the respective ingested volumes of water. Mean creatinine concentrations excreted by men were significantly higher than those excreted by women. Participants with a weight below 60 kg tended to excrete lower urine creatinine concentrations. 50% of the volunteers with a BMI < 20 kg/m2 and 20% of the volunteers with a BMI > 20 kg/m2 exhibited creatinine concentrations below the threshold value of 20 mg/dL. A similar pattern was established for gravity and osmolality. Due to its simple determination, creatinine may be preferred over specific gravity or osmolality. In order to evaluate the internal dilution of a urine sample for legally defensible drug testing, it may be necessary to account for sex and body weight.
Spatial configuration processing in visual word form perception and reading abilities in Chinese
Authors: Kao Chien‐Hui , Wang Hsiao‐Lan Sharon , Chen Chien‐Chung
Published: October 2018

The analysis of spatial relations among components of a character is important in identifying visual word forms. We investigated such spatial configuration processing for Chinese characters in dyslexic children (aged 9–12 years) and two groups of typically developing children, matched according to chronological age or reading level. In this study, we used real characters and noncharacters to manipulate the spatial configuration between character components while preserving their local features. Both characters were displayed either in an upright or inverted position. Participants were asked to quickly determine whether the two presented stimuli were identical. A significant interaction between character type and character orientation showed children's matching performance was better in upright real characters than in the inverted version, but such effect was absent in noncharacters. This indicated that regardless of reading skills, children developed the ability to use local configuration information to visually identify words. Dyslexic children performed poorly in both real‐character and noncharacter conditions. Furthermore, compared with control groups, dyslexic children performed worse in real‐character conditions, which were close to the noncharacter performance of other groups. This reflected an impairment of global visual word‐form processing (i.e., spatial configuration between components) in dyslexia.
Nematode community responses to range‐expanding and native plant communities in original and new range soils
Authors: Wilschut Rutger A. , Kostenko Olga , Koorem Kadri , van der Putten Wim H.
Published: October 2018

Many plant species expand their range to higher latitudes in response to climate change. However, it is poorly understood how biotic interactions in the new range differ from interactions in the original range. Here, in a mesocosm experiment, we analyze nematode community responses in original and new range soils to plant communities with either (a) species native in both the original and new range, (b) range‐expanding species related to these natives (related range expanders), or (c) range expanders without native congeneric species in the new range (unrelated range expanders). We hypothesized that nematode community shifts between ranges are strongest for unrelated range expanders and minimal for plant species that are native in both ranges. As a part of these community shifts, we hypothesized that range expanders, but not natives, would accumulate fewer root‐feeding nematodes in their new range compared to their original range. Analyses of responses of nematodes from both original and new ranges and comparison between range expanders with and without close relatives have not been made before. Our study reveals that none of the plant communities experienced evident nematode community shifts between the original and new range. However, in soils from the new range, root‐feeding nematode communities of natives and related range expanders were more similar than in soils from the original range, whereas the nematode community of unrelated range expanders was distinct from the communities of natives and related range expanders in soils from both ranges. The abundances of root‐feeding nematodes were comparable between the original and new range for all plant communities. Unexpectedly, unrelated range expanders overall accumulated most root‐feeding nematodes, whereas related range expanders accumulated fewest. We conclude that nematode communities associated with native and range‐expanding plant species differ between the original and the new range, but that range‐expanding plant species do not accumulate fewer root‐feeding nematodes in their new than in their original range.
Sex‐specific effects of outbreeding on offspring quality in pike (Esox lucius)
Authors: Sunde Johanna , Tibblin Petter , Larsson Per , Forsman Anders
Published: October 2018

Intraspecific genetic admixture occurs when previously separated populations within a species start interbreeding, and it can have either positive, negative, or neutral effects on reproductive performance. As there currently is no reliable predictor for the outcome of admixture, an increased knowledge about admixture effects in different species and populations is important to increase the understanding about what determines the response to admixture. We tested for effects of admixture on F1 offspring quality in three subpopulations of pike (Esox lucius). Gametes were collected in the field, and eggs from each female were experimentally fertilized with milt from a male from each population (one “pure” and two “admixed” treatments). Three offspring quality measures (hatching success, fry survival, and fry length) were determined and compared between (a) pure and admixed population combinations and (b) the sex‐specific treatments within each admixed population combination (based on the origin of the male and female, respectively). The results suggested that although there were no overall effects of admixture on offspring quality, the consequences for a given population combination could be sex‐specific and thus differ depending on which of the parents originated from one or the other population. All offspring quality traits were influenced by both maternal ID and paternal ID. Sex‐ and individual‐specific effects can have implications for dispersal behavior and gene flow between natural populations, and are important to consider in conservation efforts.
Species distribution models and empirical test: Comparing predictions with well‐understood geographical distribution of Bothrops alternatus in Argentina
Authors: Sarquis Juan A. , Cristaldi Maximiliano A. , Arzamendia Vanesa , Bellini Gisela , Giraudo Alejandro R.
Published: October 2018

Species distribution models (SDMs) estimate the geographical distribution of species although with several limitations due to sources of inaccuracy and biases. Empirical tests arose as the most important steps in scientific knowledge to assess the efficiency of model predictions, which are poorly rigorous in SDMs. A good approach to the empirical distribution (ED) of a species can be obtained from comprehensive empirical knowledge, that is, well‐understood distributions gathered from large amount of data generated with appropriate spatial and temporal samples coverage. The aims of this study were to (a) compare different SDMs predictions with an ED; and (b) evaluate if fuzzy global matching (FGM) could be used as an index to compare SDMs predictions and ED. Six algorithms with 5 and 20 variables were used to assess their accuracy in predicting the ED of the venomous snake Bothrops alternatus (Viperidae). Its entire distribution is known, thanks to thorough field surveys across Argentina, with 1,767 records. ED was compared with SDMs predictions using Map Comparison Kit. SDMs predictions showed important biases in all methods used, from 70% sub‐estimation to 40% over‐estimation of ED. BIOCLIM predicted ≈31% of B. alternatus ED. DOMAIN predicted 99% of ED, but over‐estimated 40% of the area. GLM with five variables calculated 75% of ED, while Genetic Algorithm for Rule‐set Prediction showed ≈60% of ED; the last two presenting overpredictions in areas with favorable climatic conditions but not inhabited by the species. MaxEnt and RF were the only methods to detect isolated populations in the southern distribution of B. alternatus. Although SDMs proved useful in making predictions about species distribution, predictions need validation with expert maps knowledge and ED. Moreover, FGM showed a good performance as an index with values similar to True Skill Statistic, so that it could be used to relate ED and SDMs predictions.
Transforming mentorship in STEM by training scientists to be better leaders
Authors: Hund Amanda K. , Churchill Amber C. , Faist Akasha M. , Havrilla Caroline A. , Love Stowell Sierra M. , McCreery Helen F. , Ng Julienne , Pinzone Cheryl A. , Scordato Elizabeth S. C.
Published: October 2018

Effective mentoring is a key component of academic and career success that contributes to overall measures of productivity. Mentoring relationships also play an important role in mental health and in recruiting and retaining students from groups underrepresented in STEM fields. Despite these clear and measurable benefits, faculty generally do not receive mentorship training, and feedback mechanisms and assessment to improve mentoring in academia are limited. Ineffective mentoring can negatively impact students, faculty, departments, and institutions via decreased productivity, increased stress, and the loss of valuable research products and talented personnel. Thus, there are clear incentives to invest in and implement formal training to improve mentorship in STEM fields. Here, we outline the unique challenges of mentoring in academia and present results from a survey of STEM scientists that support both the need and desire for more formal mentorship training. Using survey results and the primary literature, we identify common behaviors of effective mentors and outline a set of mentorship best practices. We argue that these best practices, as well as the key qualities of flexibility, communication, and trust, are skills that can be taught to prospective and current faculty. We present a model and resources for mentorship training based on our research, which we successfully implemented at the University of Colorado, Boulder, with graduate students and postdocs. We conclude that such training is an important and cost‐effective step toward improving mentorship in STEM fields.
Inexpensive Design of a Bio‐Chip for Disease Diagnostics: Molecular Biomarker Sensing Microchip Patterned from a Soft Oxometalate‐Perylene‐Based Hybrid Composite using Thermo‐Optical Laser Tweezers
Authors: Thomas Preethi , Ghosh Subhrokoli , Mallick Apabrita , Banerjee Ayan , Roy Soumyajit
Published: October 2018

In this work, we have developed linear micro‐patterns of phosphotungstic acid soft oxometalate (SOM) and perylene (as fluorophore) hybrid composite on a glass substrate using a thermo‐optical tweezers set‐up, and used it for sensing of biologically important molecules such as glucose, uric acid and ascorbic acid. Bulk scale studies on the SOM‐fluorophore hybrid were initially performed to optimize the fabrication of the pattern. The aqueous dispersion of the hybrid composite was subjected to UV/Visible absorption and fluorescence measurements. The linear micro‐patterns were characterized using Raman spectroscopy and AFM. The ability of the patterns to sense different biomarkers was monitored by fluorescence microscopy at different time intervals and could open up possibilities for inexpensive and facile detection of biologically important molecules, and thus introduce a new paradigm in reliable, robust, and low cost disease diagnostics.
Direct Phosphination of Ferrocenium Ion with Tertiary Phosphines by the Mechanism of Oxidative Nucleophilic Substitution
Authors: Chamkin Aleksandr A. , Krivykh Vasily V. , Nikitin Oleg M. , Kreindlin Arkady Z. , Shteltser Nikolai A. , Dolgushin Fedor M. , Artyushin Oleg I. , Ikonnikov Nikolai S. , Borisov Yuri A. , Belousov Yuri A. , Ustynyuk Nikolai A.
Published: October 2018

Ferrocenium salts [(C5H5)2Fe]X (X = BF4, PF6) (I+·) react with tertiary phosphines PR3 (PMe3, PEt3, PnBu3, PMe2Ph, and PMePh2) in dichloromethane at room temperature to form a mixture of the corresponding ferrocenylphosphonium salts [(C5H5)FeC5H4PR3]X (III), ferrocene (I), and phosphonium salts [HPR3]X. The same reaction was carried out in an electrochemical cell as the electrolysis of a solution of ferrocene and phosphine in dichloromethane at the oxidation potential of ferrocene. Possible reaction pathways for phosphination of ferrocenium ion were studied by DFT at the M06‐L/6‐311++G(d,p) theory level. The experimental and theoretical studies of this reaction suggest it to proceed according to the Scheme of oxidative nucleophilic substitution of hydrogen in I+· including the following steps: a) nucleophilic exo addition of a phosphine to the cyclopentadienyl ring of I+· to form the radical cation adduct [(η5‐C5H5)Fe·(η4‐C5H5–+PR3)]X (II+·); b) redox reaction of the initial adduct II+· with the starting ferrocenium salt I+· to result in ferrocene (C5H5)2Fe (I) and iron phosphoniocyclopentadiene dication [(η5‐C5H5)Fe+(η4‐C5H5–+PR3)](X)2 (II2+) where the Csp3–H bond is involved in the agostic interaction with the metal atom; and c) deprotonation of the Csp3–H bond in II2+ by the starting phosphine to form III. The relation between the data obtained and current concepts of C–H functionalization in transition metal arene and cyclopentadienyl complexes is discussed.
Unaromatized Tetrahydrobenzimidazole Synthesis from p‐Benzoquinone and N‐Arylamidines and their Cytotoxic Potential
Authors: Tran Minh Quan , Nguyen Thanh Binh , Sawadogo Wamtinga Richard , Ermolenko Ludmila , Song Sungmi , Retailleau Pascal , Diederich Marc , Al‐Mourabit Ali
Published: October 2018

A diverse set of unaromatized and densely functionalized tetrahydrobenzimidazole adducts were obtained in good yields by simple mixing p‐benzoquinone 1 with N‐arylamidines 2 under mild conditions. The main features of these adducts include a hemi N,O‐acetal function, and an imidazoline regioselectively and stereoselectively fused with a conjugated cyclohexenone ring. These compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic potential against hematopoietic cancer cell lines including Jurkat, Raji, K562 and U937 compared to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy donors. Some of them including 3a, 3k and 3l were found to exhibit significant selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells with IC50 values between 3 and 10 µm at 48 hours.
Empirical analysis of biodiesel effect on the automobile properties of diesel engine: A case study of olive and soya biomass
Authors: Emetere Moses Eterigho , Jack‐Quincy Solomon , Adejumo Akolade , Dauda Oluwatobi , Osunlola Israel , Adelekan Damola , Adeyemi Oladipupo
Published: October 2018

Laboratory evidence of cyclic breaking in biodiesel products was recently reported. This study seeks to investigative biodiesel production from olive and soya biomass along recent scientific discovery. Research focus was on the analysis of mixed fossil‐biodiesel samples on diesel engine. The mixed blend of soya (B10 and B20) and olive (B10 and B20) were used in this study. The TD 200 diesel engine was used to examine the automobile implications of adopting olive and soya biodiesels for automobile applications. More so, the research seeks to know the effect of cyclic breaking on engine performance. Aside the normal parameters like torque, rotational speed, differential pressure, operational temperature, and power generated in the engine, five additional factors were considered that is sound of engine, power generated by engine in horse power, thermal efficiency, normal engine efficiency, and brake mean effect pressure. Most parameters show the effect of cyclic breaking in the mixed olive and soya biodiesel when the engine operates beyond 20 minutes. The temperature of the engine is increased by 41% and 29% for olive B10 and soya B10, respectively. The maximum engine efficiencies when pure diesel, Soya B10, and Olive B10 (at specific heat ratio of 8.5) were optimized was 0.44, 0.709, and 0.616, respectively. The shortcoming of the tested biodiesel products was highlighted in the research. The rate of cyclic breaking in biodiesel is recommended for further study.
Protective effects of a triple‐fermented barley extract (FBe) against HCl/EtOH‐induced gastric mucosa damage in mice
Authors: Lim Jong‐Min , Song Chang‐Hyun , Park Su‐Jin , Park Dong‐Chan , Cho Hyung‐Rae , Jung Go‐Woon , Bashir Khawaja Muhammad Imran , Ku Sae Kwang , Choi Jae‐Suk
Published: October 2018

This study was designed to observe the possible protective effects of a triple‐fermented barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) extract (FBe) obtained by saccharification and using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Weissella cibaria in alleviating gastric damage induced by a hydrochloric acid (HCl) and ethanol (EtOH) mixture in mice. After oral administration of FBe (300, 200, and 100 mg/kg) followed by 1 hr before and after the single treatment of HCl/EtOH (H/E) mixture, the hemorrhagic lesion scores, histopathology of the stomach, gastric nitrate/nitrite content, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant defense systems including catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were observed. Following a single oral treatment of H/E‐induced gastric damages as measured by hemorrhagic gross lesions and histopathological gastric, ulcerative lesions were significantly and dose‐dependently (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) inhibited in mice, when all three different doses of FBe were administered as compared to those in H/E control mice. In particular, FBe also increased gastric nitrate/nitrite content and strengthened the antioxidant defense, with a decrease in the level of gastric lipid peroxidation, but increased the activities of CAT and SOD. Moreover, the effects of FBe are comparable to that of ranitidine, a reference drug. The obtained results suggest that this fermented barley extract prevented mice from H/E‐induced gastric mucosal damages through the suppression of inflammatory responses and oxidative stress‐responsive free radicals. Thus, FBe can be useful to treat patients suffering from gastric mucosal disorders as a potent food supplement, and thereby, it would increase the necessity of application in the food industry.
Process optimization of extrusion variables and its effect on properties of extruded cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) noodles
Authors: Sobowale Sunday Samuel , Animashaun Oluwatoyin Habibat , Mulaba‐Bafubiandi Antoine Floribert , Abidoye Temitope Saratallahi , Kewuyemi Yusuf Olamide , Adebo Oluwafemi Ayodeji
Published: October 2018

The current industrial demand for starchy foods has been dominated by other roots and tubers, while cocoyam, despite being rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins has remained under exploited. In this study, the effect of feed moisture content (FMC), screw speed (SS) and barrel temperature (BT) on the quality characteristics of cocoyam noodles (proximate, thermo‐physical, physicochemical, texture, color, extrudate properties, and sensory characteristics) were investigated using central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Flour was produced from fresh tubers of cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) and subsequently processed into noodles using a twin screw extruder. Results showed that the proximate compositions, thermo‐physical, physicochemical properties, and color of the cocoyam noodles were significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the extrusion process variables. The texture and extrudate properties of cocoyam noodles were equally significantly (p < 0.05) different. The experimental data obtained and predicted values of the response models were comparable, with statistical indices [absolute average deviation (AAD, 0–0.23), bias factor (Bf, 1–1.08), and accuracy factor (Af, 1–1.23)] indicating the validity of the derived models. The optimal extrusion processing conditions for quality cocoyam noodles were FMC, SS, and BT of 47.5%, 700 rpm and 50°C, respectively, as cocoyam noodles obtained at these conditions had comparable properties and were most preferred and accepted by the sensory panelists.
The relationship between socioeconomic status and white matter microstructure in pre‐reading children: A longitudinal investigation
Authors: Ozernov‐Palchik Ola , Norton Elizabeth S. , Wang Yingying , Beach Sara D. , Zuk Jennifer , Wolf Maryanne , Gabrieli John D. E. , Gaab Nadine
Published: October 2018

Reading is a learned skill crucial for educational attainment. Children from families of lower socioeconomic status (SES) tend to have poorer reading performance and this gap widens across years of schooling. Reading relies on the orchestration of multiple neural systems integrated via specific white‐matter pathways, but there is limited understanding about whether these pathways relate differentially to reading performance depending on SES background. Kindergarten white‐matter FA and second‐grade reading outcomes were investigated in an SES‐diverse sample of 125 children. The three left‐hemisphere white‐matter tracts most associated with reading, and their right‐hemisphere homologs, were examined: arcuate fasciculus (AF), superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), and inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF). There was a significant and positive association between SES and fractional anisotropy (FA) in the bilateral ILF in kindergarten. SES moderated the association between kindergarten ILF and second grade reading performance, such that it was positive in lower‐SES children, but not significant in higher‐SES children. These results have implications for understanding the role of the environment in the development of the neural pathways that support reading.
SunSmart news? Traditional media coverage of sun protection issues during springtime in New Zealand
Authors: Peterson Elizabeth , Richards Rosalina , McNoe Bronwen , Reeder Anthony I.
Published: October 2018

Issues addressed

Cutaneous melanomas and keratinocyte carcinomas (nonmelanoma skin cancer) are highly prevalent in New Zealand (NZ), making skin cancer a priority area for cancer control. Spring is an important time for encouraging sun‐safety, due to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) levels becoming hazardous. The news media have a potential to play an important role in reminding people and emphasising the importance of sun‐safety. This study aimed to describe how the traditional NZ media portrayed sun‐safety and skin cancer in spring news stories.

Methods

A media monitoring company collated stories related to cancer during spring 2016. These were reviewed for inclusion and content was coded according to the cancer type described. Stories focused on skin cancer and sun protection issues were coded according to the position on the cancer control continuum.

Results

Skin cancer and sun‐safety represented 3.6% (n = 110) of all cancer stories published. Stories mainly related to primary prevention (72%), early detection (37%) and survivorship (27%). The main risk factors identified included sun exposure (49%) and tanning (25%).

Conclusions

Traditional media coverage of skin cancer remains relatively low during springtime. It is heartening to see that most stories included prevention information.

So what?

Given the impact of skin cancer in NZ, and the importance of springtime as a period for behaviour change to reduce risk, there is considerable scope for increased media coverage and advocacy. Further research could usefully analyse media trends throughout the year and within specific media platforms, both traditional and new, in order to further disseminate information to the NZ public.
Temporal availability of public health care in developing countries of the Caribbean: An improved two‐step floating catchment area method for estimating spatial accessibility to health care
Authors: Paul Juel , Edwards Earl
Published: October 2018

Due to restrictions on personnel availability, the service capacity at a health facility may vary day to day based on an established schedule. This temporal variability influences a user's choice set, modifying their possible choices. As a result, the spatial accessibility of public health care may be constantly reshaped rather than being a relatively static experience as commonly represented in place‐based spatial accessibility literature. Building on the latest advances in the two‐step floating catchment method, this study presents further advancements through the inclusion of health facility schedules to better represent health care availability in the assessment of accessibility. The results show that the proposed method reveals communities with relatively poor accessibility that are hidden with many existing methods. By exposing the available care within time windows, a more accurate picture of the services available to be accessed is revealed. The findings suggest that improvement in the number of doctor hours at health facilities may reduce the disparities found in accessibility scores for communities. Further, in public health care systems similarly structured, the spatial configuration of facilities with doctors can be considered at the administrative level to ensure adequate levels of access across the jurisdiction.
How many beds? Capacity implications of hospital care demand projections in the Irish hospital system, 2015‐2030
Authors: Keegan Conor , Brick Aoife , Walsh Brendan , Bergin Adele , Eighan James , Wren Maev‐Ann
Published: October 2018

Existing Irish hospital bed capacity is low by international standards while Ireland also reports the highest inpatient bed occupancy rate across OECD countries. Moreover, strong projected population growth and ageing is expected to increase demand for hospital care substantially by 2030. Reform proposals have suggested that increased investment and access to nonacute care may mitigate some increased demand for hospital care over the next number of years, and it is in this context that the Irish government has committed to increase the supply of public hospital beds by 2600 by 2027. Incorporating assumptions on the rebalancing of care to nonhospital settings, this paper analyses the capacity implications of projected demand for hospital care in Ireland to 2030.

This analysis employs the HIPPOCRATES macrosimulation projection model of health care demand and expenditure developed in the ESRI to project public and private hospital bed capacity requirements in Ireland to 2030. We examine 6 alternative projection scenarios that vary assumptions related to population growth and ageing, healthy ageing, unmet demand, hospital occupancy, hospital length of stay, and avoidable hospitalisations.

We project an increased need for between 4000 and 6300 beds across public and private hospitals (an increase of between 26.1% and 41.1%), of which 3200 to 5600 will be required in public hospitals. These findings suggest that government plans to increase public hospital capacity over the 10 years to 2027 by 2600 may not be sufficient to meet demand requirements to 2030, even when models of care changes are accounted for.
Low self‐esteem, entrapment, and reason for living: A moderated mediation model of suicidal ideation
Authors: Ren Yaxuan , You Jianing , Lin Min‐Pei , Xu Sian
Published: October 2018

Adolescent suicidal ideation has become a top public health concern. It is thus significant to explore both risk and protective factors of adolescent suicidal ideation. The present study tested a moderated mediation model of suicidal ideation in a sample of Chinese adolescents. Chinese adolescents of 1074 (54.2% females, aged between 11 and 18 years) completed questionnaires assessing self‐esteem, entrapment, reason for living, and suicidal ideation. We found that entrapment mediated the association between low self‐esteem and suicidal ideation. The association between entrapment and suicidal ideation was moderated by reason for living. Findings of this study may expand our understanding of the development of suicidal ideation, and facilitate future research exploring the interplay of risk and protective factors of suicidality. Clinical implications of these findings were also discussed.
Inhibitory effects of ascorbic acid toward snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP) from Indian Echis carinatus venom: Insights from molecular modeling and binding studies
Authors: Choudhury Manisha , Senthilvadivel Vajravijayan , Velmurugan Devadasan
Published: October 2018

Classical antivenom therapy is unable to shield complications of viper bite and has limitations such as anaphylaxis and serum sickness. Snake venom metalloproteinases are responsible for local tissue damage and hemorrhage at the bitten site in viper envenomation, and this has led to a persistent search for metalloproteinase inhibitors. Here, we report the inhibitory effects of ascorbic acid against metalloproteinase from Echis carinatus venom both in‐silico and in‐vitro. Ascorbic acid effectively inhibited the proteolytic activity of E. carinatus venom in a dose‐dependent manner. Interaction studies of ascorbic acid with purified ecarin using isothermal titration calorimetry showed favorable binding energy and energetics. The molecular docking of ascorbic acid with ecarin revealed important interactions with residues at the active site pocket of ecarin. It was observed that the ligand behaves as a chelating inhibitor. Thus, the backbone structural scaffold of ascorbic acid can find potential use as building blocks in designing drug‐like molecules for viper bite management.
Insulin increases cholesterol uptake, lipid droplet content, and apolipoprotein B secretion in CaCo‐2 cells by upregulating SR‐BI via a PI3K, AKT, and mTOR‐dependent pathway
Authors: Fuentes Marcela , Santander Nicolás , Cortés Víctor
Published: October 2018

The actions of insulin on intestinal cholesterol absorption and lipoprotein secretion are not well understood. Herein, we determined the effects of insulin on the levels of cholesterol transporter scavenger receptor, class B, type I (SR‐BI), cellular cholesterol uptake, intracellular lipid accumulation, and lipoprotein secretion in a cellular model of human intestinal epithelium. Methods: CaCo‐2 cells were cultured to postconfluency in Transwell filters and stimulated with glucose (25 mM) in the presence or absence of insulin (100 nM) at their basolateral surface. SR‐BI mRNA and protein levels were quantified by quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR and immunoblot, respectively. Polarized localization of SR‐BI was determined by cell surface proteins biotinylation and streptavidin precipitation. Activities of PI3K, AKT, mTOR, and SR‐BI were pharmacologically antagonized. Cholesterol uptake was assessed by NBD‐cholesterol incorporation. Apolipoprotein (apo) B concentration was quantified by ELISA. Subcellular localization of neutral lipids (BODIPY) and SR‐BI (immunofluorescence) was determined by confocal microscopy.
Results: In polarized CaCo‐2 cells, insulin increased SR‐BI at the mRNA and protein levels. SR‐BI was exclusively present at apical cell surface, as indicated by biotinylation and confocal microscopy analysis. Glucose did not modify SR‐BI abundance or subcellular localization. Effects of insulin on SR‐BI levels were abrogated by PI3K, AKT, or mTOR pharmacological antagonism. Cholesterol uptake, neutral lipid abundance, and apo B secretion were increased by insulin in CaCo‐2 cells, and these effects were prevented by SR‐BI pharmacological antagonism with block lipid transport‐1.
Conclusions: insulin promotes cholesterol uptake, intracellular lipid store, and apo B–containing lipoproteins secretion by SR‐BI‐dependent mechanisms in a model of human intestinal epithelium.
miR‐345‐5p regulates proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis of acute myeloid leukemia cells by targeting AKT2
Authors: Ying Xiaoyang , Zhang Wanggang , Fang Meiyun , Zhang Weijun , Wang Chenchen , Han Li
Published: October 2018

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant clonal hematopoietic disease, which is caused by hematopoietic stem cell abnormalities. Epigenetic regulation, especially of microRNAs (miRNAs), mostly results from external or environmental effects and is critical to AML. In this study, for the first time, we report that decreased expression of miR‐345‐5p facilitates the proliferation of leukemia cells in AML. Further study demonstrated that AKT1/2 was the target of miR‐345‐5p and was responsible for the dysregulation of leukemia cell proliferation and apoptosis. Inhibition of AKT1/2 ameliorated this malignant effect, which provides new insight into AML diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and next‐step translational investigations.
Apigenin as an effective anticancer natural product: Spotlight on TRAIL, WNT/β‐catenin, JAK‐STAT pathways, and microRNAs
Authors: Ozbey Ulku , Attar Rukset , Romero Mirna Azalea , Alhewairini Saleh S , Afshar Behnaz , Sabitaliyevich Uteuliev Yerzhan , Hanna‐Wakim Lara , Ozcelik Beraat , Farooqi Ammad Ahmad
Published: October 2018

Wealth of information gleaned from decades of high‐impact research work; scientists have disentangled the complicated web of versatile regulators that underlie cancer development and progression. Use of structural biology approaches and functional genomics have helped us to gain new insights into complex nature of cancer, and it is now clear that genetic/epigenetic mutations, overexpression of oncogenes, inactivation of tumor suppressors, loss of apoptosis, and versatility of protein binding partners have contributory roles in carcinogenesis and metastatic spread. It is becoming progressively more understandable that reprogramming of gene expression during and nontranscriptional changes during cancer development and progression are initiated and controlled by deregulated signal transduction cascades, all of which collectively create an incalculable complexity. Data obtained through preclinical and clinical trials revealed that alterations in the targeted oncogenes and other downstream, and parallel pathways played a central role in the development of resistance against different therapeutics. Phytochemicals have regained limelight, and different natural products are currently being tested for efficacy in preclinical studies. Apigenin, a plant‐derived flavonoid has considerable pharmacological value and is reportedly involved in the regulation of different signaling cascades. In this review, we have attempted to summarize rapidly evolving understanding of molecular biologists and pharmacologists about the potential of apigenin in the regulation of deregulated signaling pathways in different cancers. We have emphasized on the regulation of WNT/β‐catenin and janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK‐STAT) pathways. We also comprehensively discuss how apigenin restored apoptosis in tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐resistant cancers. The review also gives a snapshot of microRNAs (miRNAs) that regulate wide‐ranging biological processes, and it is now clear that each miRNA can control hundreds of gene targets. Apigenin was noted to upregulate miR‐520b and miR‐101 in different cancers to inhibit tumor growth. Moreover, apigenin‐induced apoptotic rate was significantly higher when used in combination with miR‐423‐5p inhibitors or miR‐138 mimics. Better comprehension of linear and integrated signaling pathways will be helpful in effective therapeutic targeting of deregulated signaling pathways to inhibit/prevent cancer.
A molecular dynamics simulation of the chemisorption of the optical isomers of propranolol on the graphitic electrode modified with melamine, cyanuric, and isocyanuric acids
Authors: Ilyina Margarita G. , Khamitov Edward M. , Maistrenko Valery N.
Published: October 2018

To demonstrate the nature of the interaction of optical isomers of propranolol with the surface of the graphitic electrode modified with melamine, uracil, cyanuric, and isocyanuric acids, we have performed molecular dynamics simulations of the four‐component systems with variable modifier's molecules. We have considered the possible formation of complexes between the propranolol and modifier's molecules, covering the electrode approximated as the graphene surface. Our simulations demonstrate that the l‐isomer in aqueous solutions is bonded to the electrode surface stronger than its d‐counterpart; hence, the difference in analytical signals arises. Different strengths of bonding of the propranolol enantiomers to the surface modifiers are caused by the different intramolecular interactions taking place in the molecules of d‐ and l‐isomers. Thus, we have computationally shown that the modification of the graphite surface with melamine, uracil, cyanuric, and isocyanuric acids allows for increasing the sensitivity of the electrode toward the propranolol enantiomers and using the modified graphitic electrodes for the detection of its d‐ and l‐forms.
Retracted: EMI shielding effectiveness of expanded graphite and reduced graphene oxide
Authors: Gairola S. P. , Gairola Preeti , Shah S. K. , Gupta Rajeev
Published: October 2018

Retraction: Gairola, SP, Gairola, P, Shah, SK, Gupta, R. EMI shielding effectiveness of expanded graphite and reduced graphene oxide. J. Chin. Chem. Soc. 2018. https://doi.org/10.1002/jccs.201800189.

The above article, published online on 1 October 2018 in Wiley Online Library (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com), has been retracted by agreement between the corresponding author, the journal's Editor‐in‐Chief, Dr. Yu‐Tai Tao, the Chemical Society Located in Taipei, and Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA. The retraction has been agreed due to several images across Figures 1, 2 and 3 within the article having been duplicated from other publications. The corresponding author apologizes for the inconvenience caused.