bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation on the graphitic carbon nitride reinforced polyimide composite and evaluation of its tribological properties
Authors: Zhu Lin , You Liangjun , Shi Zhaoxin , Song Haojie , Li Songjun
Published: June 2017

This article presented a novel application for the graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4), which was used as nanofillers to improve the tribological properties of polyimide (PI). The composite based on PI and g‐C3N4 was prepared by mechanical mixing process and hot compression molding process. The characterizations of g‐C3N4 and PI/g‐C3N4 composites were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Friction and wear tests were carried out using UMT‐2 reciprocating tribo‐tester against stainless steel ball under dry friction. The results showed that the amount of g‐C3N4 was decisive to the tribological properties of PI/g‐C3N4 composites. The optimal tribological properties occurred when the amount of g‐C3N4 was 10 wt %, which showed the smallest friction coefficient and the lowest wear rate. Furthermore, this work provided an example of application for the g‐C3N4 as the excellent nanofiller in polymer matrix composites. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45403.
To treat NAS, use mother‐infant bond; results include reduced use of morphine, length of stay, and costs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2017

Infants born to mothers who are in treatment for opioid use disorders with methadone are sometimes born with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), a constellation of symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal. The old way of treating these infants — and the current way in many institutions — is to put them in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and treat them with gradually decreasing doses of morphine. But keep out of the NICU, standardize nonpharmacologic care, and empower parents, and what do you get? A reduction in the percentage of infants treated with morphine from 98% to 14%, a reduction in average length of stay (ALOS) from 22.4 to 5.9 days, and a decrease in costs from $44,824 to $10,289. That is what researchers at Yale New Haven Children's Hospital discovered when they implemented novel “plan‐do‐study‐act” cycles in 2010 in response to a dramatic increase in the number of infants born there who had been exposed to methadone in utero (a 74% increase from 2003 to 2009).
Keep your eye on…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: June 2017

The impact of nutrition and inflammation on the fetus in low‐income settings

The diminishing risk of prenatal antidepressant use on ADHD in offspring
Adverse childhood experiences start in infancy — and before
Authors: Fritz Gregory K.
Published: June 2017

At a recent social gathering, I mentioned in passing that I thought infant mental health was an extremely important area. Another guest at the event, perhaps fueled by a second glass of wine, launched into what I'm sure he considered a hilarious comic routine having to do with babies getting psychoanalyzed. The underlying point was that the whole concept of caring about the psychological health of very young children is ridiculous. Although I was sorely tempted, I did not rise to the provocateur's bait and extricated myself shortly thereafter, preserving an otherwise enjoyable evening.
Industrial Crystallization: Classical Technology with Steadily Increasing Applications and Importance
Authors: Lorenz Heike , Temmel Erik
Published: June 2017

No abstract.
2,6‐Bis(diazaboryl)pyridine: A Superbasic Sterically Demanding Pyridine Ligand.
Authors: Schröder Jan , Himmel Daniel , Böttcher Tobias
Published: June 2017

Herein a convenient one‐pot route to a sterically demanding superbasic pyridine is presented. Functionalization of the 2‐ and 6‐positions with the strongly σ‐donating boryl‐groups shifts the calculated gas phase basicity of the pyridine nitrogen atom to 1012 kJ mol−1, which outperforms the “proton sponge” 1,8‐bis(dimethylamino)naphthalene (996 kJ mol−1). The diazaboryl groups are oriented orthogonally to the pyridine ring and do not block the N‐position, which resembles the geometry of commonly used N‐heterocyclic carbenes. This allows the substituted pyridine to be used as a neutral N‐donor ligand in coordination chemistry that is demonstrated herein with the Lewis adducts of haloboranes. Contrary to NHCs, which can form extraordinarily stable adducts, the pyridine ligand is intended to act as a weaker‐coordinating alternative and could allow for alternative ligand chemistry.
Pure intraductal carcinoma of the parotid gland: Cytologic findings on FNA sample. Report of one case
Authors: Barizzi Jessica , Merlo Elisabetta , Schönegg Rene , Pelloni Raffaele , Mazzuchelli Luca , Fulciniti Franco
Published: June 2017

One case of intraductal carcinoma of the parotid gland in a 67‐year‐old male patient is here introduced. The patient, who had a one‐year history of a parotid mass, had undergone ultrasound and MRI examination that disclosed a 13x4x3 mm well delimited nodular mass of the accessory lobe of his left parotid gland. Ultrasound‐guided Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) had been performed by the clinician. The obtained smears showed widespread cellular necrosis in which cellular clusters with moderate and focally severe atypias displayed papillary and cribriform architecture and were admixed with sheets of epithelial cells with less striking nuclear atypias, squamous, or apocrine metaplasia. Histopathological examination disclosed a pure intraductal carcinoma of the parotid gland with classical morphology, which was radically excised. The differential cytological diagnosis of pure intraductal carcinoma of salivary glands may be difficult and comprises mucoepidermoid carcinoma as well as “in situ” carcinomas developping in the context of sclerosing polycystic adenosis, mammary analogue secretory carcinoma (MASC) of the salivary glands and cystic variants of salivary adenocarcinoma NOS (formerly called cystadenocarcinomas).
Long‐term outcome of anorexia nervosa: Results from a large clinical longitudinal study
Authors: Fichter Manfred Maximilian , Quadflieg Norbert , Crosby Ross D. , Koch Sonja
Published: June 2017

Objective

Assessment of the long‐term outcome of anorexia nervosa (AN) in a very large sample of inpatients (N = 1,693) and identification of predictors for poor outcome.

Method

Over 25 years (mean 10 years), consecutively admitted inpatients of a specialized hospital were followed. A subsample of 112 patients with 20‐year follow‐up was defined. Bivariate comparisons and logistic regression analysis identified risk factors of poor outcome.

Results

Body mass index (BMI) increased during the follow‐up period. Eating behavior as well as general psychopathology improved but did not reach the level of healthy controls. Remission was found in 30% (total sample) and in 40% (20‐year follow‐up subsample). Crossover from AN to binge‐eating disorder or obesity was rare. The predictors of a negative course of illness included lower BMI at admission; a higher score on the Eating Disorder Inventory Maturity Fears subscale at admission; fewer follow‐up years; and higher age at admission. The main diagnostic crossover occurred from AN to eating disorder not otherwise specified. Motherhood was related to better outcome.

Discussion

Many patients with very severe AN recover from their illness but AN also shows considerable long‐term negative consequences. Over long time periods, survivors show improvement but better treatments for severe cases are still needed. Predictors of outcome included symptom severity, chronicity, and length of follow‐up but not psychiatric comorbidity.
Reactive Power Control of Mega‐Solar System for Voltage Regulation with Long Distribution Line
Authors: KOUNO KOUICHIRO , NAKANISHI EIJI , NAGANO YOSHIAKI , HOJO MASAHIDE
Published: June 2017

Constant power factor control of a power conditioning system in a large‐scale photovoltaic generation system (PV system) such as a mega‐solar system is introduced to mitigate voltage variations on a distribution line. However, it is difficult for the control to mitigate the voltage variation on a long distribution line because of the changes in the loss on the distribution line. This paper proposes an advanced reactive power control in which the power factor of the PV system is adjusted using both the output power of the PV system and the apparent power of loads not to minimize the voltage variation at the interconnecting point but to minimize the voltage variation over the whole distribution line. We report on the results based on numerical analysis on mitigating the voltage variation by applying this control. This paper shows that the proposed control can mitigate the voltage variation better than constant power factor control can. The proposed control has the potential to be used as a measure for suppressing voltage variations on a long distribution line.
NCR1‐deficiency diminishes the generation of protective murine cytomegalovirus antibodies by limiting follicular helper T‐cell maturation
Authors: Miletic Antonija , Lenartic Maja , Popovic Branka , Brizic Ilija , Trsan Tihana , Miklic Karmela , Mandelboim Ofer , Krmpotic Astrid , Jonjic Stipan
Published: June 2017

NKp46/NCR1 is an activating NK‐cell receptor implicated in the control of various viral and bacterial infections. Recent findings also suggest that it plays a role in shaping the adaptive immune response to pathogens. Using NCR1‐deficient (NCR1gfp/gfp) mice, we provide evidence for the role of NCR1 in antibody response to mouse cytomegalovirus infection (MCMV). The absence of NCR1 resulted in impaired maturation, function and NK‐cell migration to regional lymph nodes. In addition, CD4+ T‐cell activation and follicular helper T‐cell (Tfh) generation were reduced, leading to inferior germinal center (GC) B‐cell maturation. As a consequence, NCR1gfp/gfp mice produced lower amounts of MCMV‐specific antibodies upon infection, which correlated with lower number of virus‐specific antibody secreting cells in analyzed lymph nodes.
Optimize summer school initiatives with added customer segments
Authors: Wymbs Clifford
Published: June 2017

For many colleges and universities, summer school is a win/win proposition. Faculty have an opportunity to earn additional compensation; campus resources are underutilized; often school administrators keep a greater proportion of revenue earned; and students can earn additional credits, repeat failed classes, and/or alleviate regular‐term scheduling difficulties. For these reasons and due to summer school's reduced demand associated with the elimination of year‐round Pell grants in 2011, universities are increasingly turning to more intense mobile, interactive, and word‐of‐mouth marketing campaigns to expand summer enrollments.
Spatial organization of drumlins
Authors: Clark Chris D. , Ely Jeremy C. , Spagnolo Matteo , Hahn Ute , Hughes Anna L.C. , Stokes Chris R.
Published: June 2017

Ice‐sheets flowing over soft sediments produce undulations in the bed, typically of metres in relief, of which drumlins are the most abundant and widely investigated. Consensus regarding their mechanism of formation has yet to be achieved. In this paper we examine the spatial organization of drumlins in order to provide an improved description of the phenomenon and to guide hypotheses of their formation. We review the literature highlighting contradictory findings regarding drumlin spatial organization and then use this to motivate our study based on a large sample (42 488) of drumlins from Canada, Britain and Norway. Are there typical arrangements in drumlin positioning and are they organized in a regular spatial manner (patterned) or are they distributed randomly? We recognize that drumlin fields are inherently patchy and therefore apply inhomogeneous spatial statistics in order to study their distribution. This shows that whilst drumlins are occasionally randomly placed, their main state is non‐ random. They exhibit a strong and statistically significant signal of regularity across lengths scales of 100 to 1200 m. We conclude that patterning is a near ubiquitous property of drumlins. This finding of regularity demonstrates spatial self‐organization in the bedforming process with drumlins as an emergent manifestation of sub‐glacial sediment mobility. Kilometre‐scale interactions between drumlins must occur as they evolve, or interactions may arise as a consequence of growth or migration. Hypotheses or models are required that can explain the regular spacing of drumlins. We highlight three suggestions for such self‐organization: instability in the coupling of ice flow–sediment flux–bed shape; local feedback between sediment mobility and relief; and coarsening by growth or migration. © 2017 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Reconstructing extreme post‐wildfire floods: a comparison of convective and mesoscale events
Authors: Brogan Daniel J. , Nelson Peter A. , MacDonald Lee H.
Published: June 2017

In much of western United States destructive floods after wildfire are frequently caused by localized, short‐duration convective thunderstorms; however, little is known about post‐fire flooding from longer‐duration, low‐intensity mesoscale storms. In this study we estimate and compare peak flows from convective and mesoscale floods following the 2012 High Park Fire in the ungaged 15.5 km2 Skin Gulch basin in the northcentral Colorado Front Range. The convective storm on 6 July 2012 came just days after the wildfire was contained. Radar data indicated that the total rainfall was 20–47 mm, and the maximum rainfall intensities (upwards of 50 mm h−1) were concentrated over portions of the watershed that burned at high severity. The mesoscale storm on 9–15 September 2013 produced 220–240 mm of rain but had maximum 15‐min intensities of only 25–32 mm h−1.

Peak flows for each flood were estimated using three independent techniques. Our best estimate using a 2D hydraulic model was 28 m3 s−1 km−2 for the flood following the convective storm, placing it among the largest rainfall‐runoff floods per unit area in the United States. In contrast, the flood associated with the mesoscale flood was only 6 m3 s−1 km−2, but the long‐duration flood caused extensive channel incision and widening, indicating that this storm was much more geomorphically effective. The peak flow estimates for the 2013 flood had a higher relative uncertainty and this stemmed from whether we used pre‐ or post‐flood channel topography. The results document the extent to which a high and moderate severity forest fire can greatly increase peak flows and alter channel morphology, illustrate how indirect peak flow estimates have larger errors than is generally assumed, and indicate that the magnitude of post‐fire floods and geomorphic change can be affected by the timing, magnitude, duration, and sequence of rainstorms. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A numerical stabilization framework for viscoelastic fluid flow using the finite volume method on general unstructured meshes
Authors: Niethammer M. , Marschall H. , Kunkelmann C. , Bothe D.
Published: June 2017

A robust finite volume method for viscoelastic flow analysis on general unstructured meshes is developed. It is built upon a general‐purpose stabilization framework for high Weissenberg number flows. The numerical framework provides full combinatorial flexibility between different kinds of rheological models on the one hand, and effective stabilization methods on the other hand. A special emphasis is put on the velocity‐stress‐coupling on colocated computational grids. Using special face interpolation techniques, a semi‐implicit stress interpolation correction is proposed to correct the cell‐face interpolation of the stress in the divergence operator of the momentum balance. Investigating the entry‐flow problem of the 4:1 contraction benchmark, we demonstrate that the numerical methods are robust over a wide range of Weissenberg numbers and significantly alleviate the high Weissenberg number problem. The accuracy of the results is evaluated in a detailed mesh convergence study.
The liver–gut microbiota axis modulates hepatotoxicity of tacrine in the rat
Authors: Yip Lian Yee , Aw Chiu Cheong , Lee Sze Han , Hong Yi Shuen , Ku Han Chen , Xu Winston Hecheng , Chan Jessalyn Mei Xuan , Cheong Eleanor Jing Yi , Chng Kern Rei , Ng Amanda Hui Qi , Nagarajan Niranjan , Mahendran Ratha , Lee Yuan Kun , Browne Edward R. , Chan Eric Chun Yong
Published: June 2017

The gut microbiota possesses diverse metabolic activities, but its contribution toward heterogeneous toxicological responses is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the role of the liver–gut microbiota axis in underpinning the hepatotoxicity of tacrine. We employed an integrated strategy combining pharmacokinetics, toxicology, metabonomics, genomics, and metagenomics to elucidate and validate the mechanism of tacrine‐induced hepatotoxicity in Lister hooded rats. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats demonstrated 3.3‐fold higher systemic exposure to tacrine in strong responders that experienced transaminitis, revealing enhanced enterohepatic recycling of deglucuronidated tacrine in this subgroup, not attributable to variation in hepatic disposition gene expression. Metabonomic studies implicated variations in gut microbial activities that mapped onto tacrine‐induced transaminitis. Metagenomics delineated greater deglucuronidation capabilities in strong responders, based on differential gut microbial composition (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bacteroides, and Enterobacteriaceae) and approximately 9% higher β‐glucuronidase gene abundance compared with nonresponders. In the validation study, coadministration with oral β‐glucuronidase derived from Escherichia coli and pretreatment with vancomycin and imipenem significantly modulated the susceptibility to tacrine‐induced transaminitis in vivo. Conclusion: This study establishes pertinent gut microbial influences in modifying the hepatotoxicity of tacrine, providing insights for personalized medicine initiatives. (Hepatology 2018;67:282‐295).
Treatment outcomes for Hodgkin lymphoma: First report from the Brazilian Prospective Registry
Authors: Biasoli Irene , Castro Nelson , Delamain Marcia , Silveira Talita , Farley James , Simões Belinda Pinto , Solza Cristiana , Praxedes Monica , Baiocchi Otávio , Gaiolla Rafael , Franceschi Fernanda , Sola Caroline Bonamin , Boquimpani Carla , Clementino Nelma , Perini Guilherme , Pagnano Kátia , Steffenello Giovanna , Tabacof Jacques , de Freitas Colli Gilberto , Soares Andrea , de Souza Carmino , Chiattone Carlos Sérgio , Milito Cristiane , Morais José Carlos , Spector Nelson
Published: June 2017

Data about Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) in developing countries are scarce and suggest the existence of substantial disparities in healthcare and outcomes in large areas of the world. In 2009, a prospective registry of HL was implemented in Brazil. Web‐based data were contributed by 20 institutions across the country participating in the Brazilian Prospective Hodgkin's Lymphoma Registry. The aim of this study was to present the clinical features and outcomes of newly diagnosed patients with HL aged 13 to 90 years. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to estimate progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) by clinical factors. A total of 674 patients with classical HL were analysed, with a median follow‐up of 37 months. Median age was 30 years (13‐90). The median time from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 6 months (0‐60). Only 6% of patients had early favourable disease, while 65% had advanced disease. Stage IVB was present in 26% and a high‐risk International Prognostic Score in 38%. Doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine was used in 93%. The median dose of radiotherapy was 36 Gy for localized disease and 32 Gy for advanced disease. The 3 year PFS in early favourable, early unfavourable, and advanced disease were 95%, 88%, and 66%, respectively. High‐risk International Prognostic Score, advanced disease, and age greater than or equal to 60 were independently associated with poorer PFS and OS; performance status greater than or equal to 2 was also associated with a poorer OS. Poor‐risk patients predominated. Radiation doses for localized disease appear higher than current recommendations. Outcomes appear inferior in developing countries than in developed countries. Delayed diagnosis is probably a major factor underlying these findings. Scattered reports from developing nations suggest that many aspects of standard care in developed countries remain unmet needs for populations living in developing countries. The present report contributes to this body of data, with a proper description of what is currently achieved in urban areas in Brazil.
Surface expression of anti‐CD3scfv stimulates locoregional immunotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma depending on the E1A‐engineered human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zhang Qing , Yuan Xiang‐Fei , Lu Yang , Li Zhen‐Zhen , Bao Shi‐Qi , Zhang Xiao‐Long , Yang Yuan‐Yuan , Fan Dong‐Mei , Zhang Yi‐Zhi , Wu Chen‐Xuan , Guo Hong‐Xing , Zhang Yan‐Jun , Ye Zhou , Xiong Dong‐Sheng
Published: June 2017

Tumor antigens is at the core of cancer immunotherapy, however, the ideal antigen selection is difficult especially in poorly immunogenic tumors. In this study, we designed a strategy to modify hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells by surface expressing anti‐CD3scfv within the tumor site strictly, which depended on the E1A‐engineered human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSC.E1A) delivery system. Subsequently, membrane‐bound anti‐CD3scfv actived the lymphocytes which lysed HCC cells bypassing the expression of antigens or MHC restriction. First, we constructed the anti‐CD3scfv gene driven by human α‐fetoprotein (AFP) promoter into an adenoviral vector and the E1A gene into the lentiviral vector. Our results showed that anti‐CD3scfv could specifically express on the surface of HCC cells and activate the lymphocytes to kill target cells effectively in vitro. HUMSC infected by AdCD3scfv followed by LentiR.E1A could support the adenoviral replication and packaging in vitro 36 h after LentiR.E1A infection. Using a subcutaneous HepG2 xenograft model, we confirmed that AdCD3scfv and LentiR.E1A co‐transfected HUMSC could migrate selectively to the tumor site and produce considerable adenoviruses. The new generated AdCD3scfv infected and modified tumor cells successfully. Mice injected with the MSC.E1A.AdCD3scfv and lymphocytes significantly inhibited the tumor growth compared with control groups. Furthermore, 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) could sensitize adenovirus infection at low MOI resulting in improved lymphocytes cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo. In summary, this study provides a promising strategy for solid tumor immunotherapy.
Mutation in the FGFR1 tyrosine kinase domain or inactivation of PTEN is associated with acquired resistance to FGFR inhibitors in FGFR1‐driven leukemia/lymphomas
Authors: Cowell John K. , Qin Haiyan , Hu Tianxiang , Wu Qing , Bhole Aaron , Ren Mingqiang
Published: June 2017

Stem cell leukemia/lymphoma syndrome (SCLL) is driven by constitutive activation of chimeric FGFR1 kinases generated by chromosome translocations. We have shown that FGFR inhibitors significantly suppress leukemia and lymphoma development in vivo, and cell viability in vitro. Since resistance to targeted therapies is a major reason for relapse, we developed FGFR1‐overexpressing mouse and human cell lines that are resistant to the specific FGFR inhibitors AZD4547 and BGJ398, as well as non‐specific inhibitors, such as ponatinib, TKI258 and E3810. Two mutually exclusive mechanisms for resistance were demonstrated; an activating V561M mutation in the FGFR1 kinase domain and mutational inactivation of PTEN resulting in increased PI3K/AKT activity. Ectopic expression of PTEN in the PTEN‐mutant cells resensitizes them to FGFR inhibitors. Treatment of resistant cells with BGJ398, in combination with the BEZ235 PI3K inhibitor, shows an additive effect on growth in vitro and prolongs survival in xenograft models in vivo. These studies provide the first direct evidence for both the involvement of the FGFR1 V561M mutation and PTEN inactivation in the development of resistance in leukemias overexpressing chimeric FGFR1. These studies also provide a potential strategy to treat leukemias and lymphomas driven by FGFR1 activation that become resistant to FGFR1 inhibitors.
Cultivation of human dermal fibroblasts and epidermal keratinocytes on keratin‐coated silica bead substrates
Authors: Tan Bee Yi , Nguyen Luong T. H. , Kim Hyo‐Sop , Kim Jae‐Ho , Ng Kee Woei
Published: June 2017

Human hair keratin is promising as a bioactive material platform for various biomedical applications. To explore its versatility further, human hair keratin was coated onto monolayers of silica beads to produce film‐like substrates. This combination was hypothesized to provide a synergistic effect in improving the biochemical properties of the resultant composite. Atomic force microscopy analysis showed uniform coatings of keratin on the silica beads with a slight increase in the resulting surface roughness. Keratin‐coated silica beads had higher surface energy and relatively lower negative charge than those of bare silica beads. To investigate cell response, human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), and human epidermal keratinocytes (HEKs) were cultured on the substrates over 4 days. Results showed that keratin coatings significantly enhanced the metabolic activity of HDFs and encouraged cell spreading but did not exert any significant effects on HEKs. HDF expression of collagen I was significantly more intense on the keratin‐coated compared to the bare silica substrates. Furthermore, HDF secretion of various cytokines suggested that keratin coatings triggered active cell responses related to wound healing. Collectively, our study demonstrated that human hair keratin‐coated silica bead monolayers have the potential to modulate HDF behavior in culture and may be exploited further. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2789–2798, 2017.
Protein engineering of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 with higher interaction with Ca phosphate based scaffold used for osteogenesis
Authors: Bayat Mohammad , Shojaei Sahar , Bahrami Naghmeh , Mohamadnia Abdolreza , Shojaei Pegah , Bahrami Naeim
Published: June 2017

The aim of the present study was to assess the recombinant bonemorphogenetic protein 2 (RHBMP‐2) with higher substantively and solubility for use in calcium phosphate scaffolds for better release in differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to osteoblast cells. Using bioinformatics tools, two mutations (p. L10D and p. S12E) were chosen and applied in BMP2 CDS sequence to increase interaction with calcium derived composite. The new recombinant mutated sequence (BMP2mut) was synthesized and then subcloned to expression vector pBV220. Experimental data regarded functional protein expression in E. coli. Since no modification was made in the active sites of proteins namely β‐sheets and α‐helixes, not only was there any change in the specific activity occurred in the specific activity of the enzyme in comparison to its commercial counterpart, but also mesenchymal osteogenesis occurred more efficient on biphasic CaP scaffold model. As we hypothesized, use of negatively charged amino acids such as aspartate and glutamate in protein loops increased the interactions of BMP2‐Ca2+ and resulted in its slower and more sustained released from CaP scaffolds compare to commercial RHBMP2. Our data suggested that new BMP2mut have greater osteoinductive capacity than RHBMP2 in the same time and dose than RHBMP2. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 2799–2805, 2017.
Screening for DEL phenotype in RhD negative Indians
Authors: Kulkarni Swati , Parchure Disha S. , Gopalkrishnan Vidya , Madkaikar Manisha
Published: June 2017

Background

DEL phenotype represents a very weak form of D variant detected only by adsorption and elution technique. DEL phenotype individuals mistyped as RhD‐negative can lead to alloimmunization after transfusion or pregnancy. Molecular techniques have now been used to identify DEL variants. They are commonly encountered in the East Asian population with RHD(K409K) being the most frequent allele. RHD(M295I) is the most common DEL allele in Caucasians. As there is a paucity of data on DEL phenotype in the Indian population, the study aims to screen RhD negative individuals for two most common DEL mutations.

Material and Methods

EDTA blood was collected from 900 RhD negative individuals. Serological analysis included testing for the five major Rh antigens‐ C, c, D, E, and e by tube technique. Samples showing negative reaction for the presence of D antigen by Indirect Antiglobulin test were further tested for DEL phenotype by adsorption and elution technique. Molecular analysis involved DNA extraction and testing by PCR‐SSP for RHD(K409K) and RHD(M295I) DEL alleles.

Results

Rh phenotyping showed 153 Rh negative individuals with r'r, ten with r’’r and 737 with rr phenotype. All the samples tested negative for RhD antigen by adsorption and elution method. The two common DEL mutations RHD(K409K) and RHD(M295I) were also not detected in the study population.

Conclusion

The study population showed the absence of the two common DEL alleles, concluding the variant to be rare. A comprehensive study with a larger sample size to look for other DEL mutations should be performed.
Fluorescent competitive aptasensor for detection of aflatoxin B1
Authors: Mukherjee Monali , Bhatt Praveena , H.K. Manonmani
Published: June 2017

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is one of the most commonly found mycotoxins in food commodities, particularly cereals, oilseeds, spices and tree nuts. In the past decade, aptamers have come into limelight and emerged as a new biosensing element replacing antibodies in various detection formats. Herein we report a faster, more sensitive, high throughput method for the detection of AFB1 using AFB1‐specific aptamers. The assay format was based on a competitive reaction of the fluorescent tagged aptamer specific to AFB1 with the aflatoxin conjugate. Under optimal conditions, a linear range of detection (50 ng to 50 pg) was achieved with a limit of detection (LOD) of 10 pg/mL in the buffer system. Results of inter‐ and intra‐assay revealed that the assay was repeatable with standard deviation in acceptable range. The assay was also validated in food samples such as dried red chilies, groundnut and whole pepper with recovery in the range of 92 to 102% at 10 ng/mL and 100 pg/mL levels. The aptasensor assay was also compared with standard analytical method of HPLC and was found to be more sensitive. This detection technique has the potential to be developed into a biosensor platform for AFB1 detection.
Pirfenidone reduces subchondral bone loss and fibrosis after murine knee cartilage injury
Authors: Chan Deva D. , Li Jun , Luo Wei , Predescu Dan N. , Cole Brian J. , Plaas Anna
Published: June 2017

Pirfenidone is an anti‐inflammatory and anti‐fibrotic drug that has shown efficacy in lung and kidney fibrosis. Because inflammation and fibrosis have been linked to the progression of osteoarthritis, we investigated the effects of oral Pirfenidone in a mouse model of cartilage injury, which results in chronic inflammation and joint‐wide fibrosis in mice that lack hyaluronan synthase 1 (Has1−/−) in comparison to wild‐type. Femoral cartilage was surgically injured in wild‐type and Has1−/− mice, and Pirfenidone was administered in food starting after 3 days. At 4 weeks, Pirfenidone reduced the appearance, on micro‐computed tomography, of pitting in subchondral bone at, and cortical bone surrounding, the site of cartilage injury. This corresponded with a reduction in fibrotic tissue deposits as observed with gross joint surface photography. Pirfenidone resulted in significant recovery of trabecular bone parameters affected by joint injury in Has1−/− mice, although the effect in wild‐type was less pronounced. Pirfenidone also increased Safranin‐O staining of growth plate cartilage after cartilage injury and sham operation in both genotypes. Taken together with the expression of selected extracellular matrix, inflammation, and fibrosis genes, these results indicate that Pirfenidone may confer chondrogenic and bone‐protective effects, although the well‐known anti‐fibrotic effects of Pirfenidone may occur earlier in the wound‐healing response than the time point examined in this study. Further investigations to identify the specific cell populations in the joint and signaling pathways that are responsive to Pirfenidone are warranted, as Pirfenidone and other anti‐fibrotic drugs may encourage tissue repair and prevent progression of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:365–376, 2018.
Collecting Validity Evidence for Simulation‐Based Assessment of Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound Skills
Authors: Jensen Jesper Kørup , Dyre Liv , Jørgensen Mattis Enggaard , Andreasen Lisbeth Anita , Tolsgaard Martin Grønnebæk
Published: June 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the validity of a simulator test designed to evaluate focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) skills.

Methods

Participants included a group of ultrasound novices (n = 25) and ultrasound experts (n = 10). All participants had their FAST skills assessed using a virtual reality ultrasound simulator. Procedural performance on the 4 FAST windows was assessed by automated simulator metrics, which received a passing or failing score. The validity evidence for these simulator metrics was examined by a stepwise approach according to the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Metrics with validity evidence were included in a simulator test, and the reliability of test scores was determined. Finally, a pass/fail level for procedural performance was established.

Results

Of the initial 55 metrics, 34 (61.8%) had validity evidence (P < .01). A simulator test was constructed based on the 34 metrics with established validity evidence, and test scores were calculated as percentages of the maximum score. The median simulator test scores were 14.7% (range, 0%–47.1%) and 94.1% (range, 94.1%–100%) for novices and experts, respectively (P < .001). The pass/fail level was determined to be 79.7%.

Conclusions

The performance of FAST examinations can be assessed in a simulated setting using defensible performance standards, which have both good reliability and validity.
Habitat use of female gray bats assessed using aerial telemetry
Authors: Moore Patrick R. , Risch Thomas S. , Morris D. Keith , Rolland Virginie
Published: June 2017

Gray bats (Myotis grisescens) were listed as endangered in 1976 because of population declines resulting from cave disturbance. The Gray Bat Recovery Plan identified the need to understand habitat use by this species. Yet, this need has never been adequately addressed, partly because gray bats are a highly mobile species with large home ranges, making ground‐based tracking methods problematic. The objective of this study was to gather information on the foraging behavior of gray bats using aerial telemetry. We radio‐tracked 112 reproductive female gray bats from 5 maternity colonies in Arkansas from a fixed‐winged aircraft, in June–July of 2014 and 2015. We used fixed‐kernel density to estimate the home range used by each colony and each individual. We performed a compositional analysis to determine land cover types selected by gray bats. Aerial telemetry was successful with ≥15 independent locations gathered for 42 individuals and an error of approximately 400 m. Mean 95% individual home range was larger in 2014 (362.2 ± 24.9 [SE] km2) than in 2015 (57.9 ± 8.6 km2). Female gray bats traveled and foraged over water proportionally more than expected based on availability. Our results show that aerial telemetry is suitable to track bat movements, and given its large home range size, management strategies for gray bats should extend beyond protecting roost sites to include waterways and riparian areas. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
In‐Situ Optical Scratch Analysis and Correlation Between Tangential Force and Scratch Behavior of Thermoplastic Injection Molded Plates
Authors: Szilágyi Csongor , Seeger Philipp , Moneke Martin , Stengler Ralph
Published: June 2017

The Universal Surface Tester offers the possibility to perform in‐situ scratch tests while simultaneously measuring the tangential force created by micro friction between indenter and surface. With this setup, plane non‐structured injection molded plates of brittle and ductile thermoplastics were scratched using different velocities and normal loads. During scratching the movement and interaction between different indenters (diamond pyramid and steel spheres) and polymer surfaces were observed with an optical microscope. The microscope images were used to analyze the deformation response and detect any irregularities in the process. The fluctuations in tangential force could be correlated to chipping and different scratch mechanisms could be identified for the ductile and brittle thermoplastics.
A realistic phantom for validating MRI‐based synthetic CT images of the human skull
Authors: Soliman Abraam S. , Burns Levi , Owrangi Amir , Lee Young , Song William Y. , Stanisz Greg , Chugh Brige P.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To introduce a new realistic human skull phantom for the validation of synthetic CT images of cortical bone from ultra‐short echo‐time (UTE) sequences.

Methods

A human skull of an adult female was utilized as a realistic representation of skull cortical bone. The skull was stabilized in a special acrylic container and was filled with contrast agents that have T1 and T2 relaxation times similar to human brain. The phantom was MR scanned at 3T with UTE and T2‐weighted sequences, followed by CT. A clustering approach was developed to extract the cortical bone signal from MR images. maps of the skull were calculated. Synthetic CT images of the bone were compared to cortical bone signal extracted from CT images and confounding factors, such as registration errors, were analyzed.

Results

Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of UTE‐detected cortical bone was 0.84 and gradually decreased with decreasing number of spokes. DSC did not significantly depend on echo‐time. Registration errors were found to be significant confounding factors, with 25% decrease in DSC for consistent 2 mm error at each axis.

Conclusion

This work introduced a new realistic human skull phantom, specifically for the evaluation and analysis of synthetic CT images of cortical bone.
Direct comparison of high‐temporal‐resolution CINE MRI with Doppler ultrasound for assessment of diastolic dysfunction in mice
Authors: Roberts Thomas A. , Price Anthony N. , Jackson Laurence H. , Taylor Valerie , David Anna L. , Lythgoe Mark F. , Stuckey Daniel J.
Published: June 2017

Diastolic dysfunction is a sensitive early indicator of heart failure and can provide additional data to conventional measures of systolic function. Transmitral Doppler ultrasound, which measures the one‐dimensional flow of blood through the mitral valve, is currently the preferred method for the measurement of diastolic function, but the measurement of the left ventricular volume changes using high‐temporal‐resolution cinematic magnetic resonance imaging (CINE MRI) is an alternative approach which is emerging as a potentially more robust and user‐independent technique. Here, we investigated the performance of high‐temporal‐resolution CINE MRI and compared it with ultrasound for the detection of diastolic dysfunction in a mouse model of myocardial infarction. An in‐house, high‐temporal‐resolution, retrospectively gated CINE sequence was developed with a temporal resolution of 1 ms. Diastolic function in mice was assessed using a custom‐made, open‐source reconstruction package. Early (E) and late (A) left ventricular filling phases were easily identifiable, and these measurements were compared directly with high‐frequency, pulsed‐wave, Doppler ultrasound measurements of mitral valve inflow. A repeatability study established that high‐temporal‐resolution CINE MRI and Doppler ultrasound showed comparable accuracy when measuring E/A in normal control mice. However, when applied in a mouse model of myocardial infarction, high‐temporal‐resolution CINE MRI indicated diastolic heart failure (E/A = 0.94 ± 0.11), whereas ultrasound falsely detected normal cardiac function (E/A = 1.21 ± 0.11). The addition of high‐temporal‐resolution CINE MRI to preclinical imaging studies enhances the library of sequences available to cardiac researchers and potentially identifies diastolic heart failure early in disease progression.
Did Strategic Bombing in the Second World War Lead to ‘German Angst’? A Large–Scale Empirical Test across 89 German Cities
Authors: Obschonka Martin , Stuetzer Michael , Rentfrow P. Jason , Potter Jeff , Gosling Samuel D.
Published: June 2017

A widespread stereotype holds that the Germans are notorious worriers, an idea captured by the term German angst. An analysis of country–level neurotic personality traits (trait anxiety, trait depression, and trait neuroticism; N = 7 210 276) across 109 countries provided mixed support for this idea; Germany ranked 20th, 31st, and 53rd for depression, anxiety, and neuroticism, respectively, suggesting, at best, the national stereotype is only partly valid. Theories put forward to explain the stereotypical characterization of Germany focus on the collective traumatic events experienced by Germany during World War II (WWII), such as the massive strategic bombing of German cities. We thus examined the link between strategic bombing of 89 German cities and today's regional levels in neurotic traits ( N = 33 534) and related mental health problems. Contrary to the WWII bombing hypothesis, we found negative effects of strategic bombing on regional trait depression and mental health problems. This finding was robust when controlling for a host of economic factors and social structure. We also found Resilience × Stressor interactions: Cities with more severe bombings show more resilience today (lower levels of neurotic traits and mental health problems in the face of a current major stressor—economic hardship). Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
Person–Group Dissimilarity in Personality and Peer Victimization
Authors: Boele Savannah , Sijtsema Jelle J. , Klimstra Theo A. , Denissen Jaap J.A. , Meeus Wim H.J.
Published: June 2017

The present study examined the role of person–group dissimilarity in personality in peer victimization. It was hypothesized that adolescents who show more deviation from the classroom norm in personality experience more peer victimization. Data from 1108 adolescents (48% boys; Mage = 13.56 years, SD = 1.13) from 54 classrooms were used to test this hypothesis. Data included measurements of self–reported and bully–disclosed victimization and Big Five and Dark Triad personality traits. Results of generalized linear mixed models including polynomial equations and subsequent response surface analyses partly supported our hypothesis. Person–group dissimilarity in the shape of personality profiles was related to more bully–disclosed victimization, but not to self–reported victimization. Dissimilarity in neuroticism and Machiavellianism was related to both more self–reported and bully–disclosed victimization. Dissimilarity in extraversion, openness to experience, and psychopathy was only related to more self–reported victimization. Unexpectedly, dissimilarity in agreeableness was related to less self–reported victimization. Moreover, our results also indicated that certain levels of congruent person–group combinations in agreeableness, neuroticism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy were related to more peer victimization. Overall, findings of this study emphasize the importance of considering classroom norms in relation to peer victimization. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
Using children's literature to decrease moral disengagement and victimization among elementary school students
Authors: Wang Cixin , Goldberg Taryn S.
Published: June 2017

Previous research has suggested that moral disengagement is strongly associated with bullying and bystander behavior. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of a 5‐week classroom‐wide bullying intervention, The Bullying Literature Project‐Moral Disengagement Version (BLP‐MD), on moral disengagement and bullying among elementary school students. A quasiexperimental design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the BLP‐MD. A sample of 84 third grade students (Mage = 7.93 years, 53.6% female) from four classrooms and their teachers participated in this study. The results revealed significant time by treatment interactions for decreasing both victimization and moral disengagement in treatment classrooms compared to waitlist control classrooms. The program also resulted in improved perception of peer friendships and was rated as having high social validity for both students and their teachers. How to incorporate the BLP‐MD into the general language arts curriculum to decrease moral disengagement and bullying, and promote positive bystanding is discussed.
A novel amino acid substitution Trp574Arg in acetolactate synthase (ALS) confers broad resistance to ALS‐inhibiting herbicides in crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis)
Authors: Li Jian , Li Mei , Gao Xingxiang , Fang Feng
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) is an annual monocotyledonous weed. In recent years, field applications of nicosulfuron have been ineffective in controlling crabgrass populations in Shandong Province, China. To investigate the mechanisms of resistance to nicosulfuron in crabgrass populations, the acetolactate synthase (ALS) gene fragment covering known resistance‐confering mutation sites was amplified and sequenced.

RESULTS

Dose–response experiments suggested that the resistant population SD13 (R) was highly resistant to nicosulfuron (resistance index R/S = 43.7) compared with the sensitive population SD22 (S). ALS gene sequencing revealed a Trp574Arg substitution in the SD13 population, and no other known resistance‐conferring mutations were found. In vitro ALS enzyme assays further confirmed that the SD13 population was resistant to all tested ALS‐inhibiting herbicides. The resistance pattern experiments revealed that, compared with SD22, the SD13 population exhibited broad‐spectrum resistance to nicosulfuron (43.7‐fold), imazethapyr (11.4‐fold) and flumetsulam (16.1‐fold); however, it did not develop resistance to atrazine, mesotrione and topramezone.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that Trp574Arg substitution was the main reason for crabgrass resistance to ALS‐inhibiting herbicides. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Trp574Arg substitution in a weed species, and is the first report of target‐site mechanisms of herbicide resistance for crabgrass. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry