bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High-Throughput
Candida albicans
Two-Hybrid System
Authors: Schoeters Floris , Munro Carol A. , d’Enfert Christophe , Van Dijck Patrick
Published: August 2018

Candida albicans
is a major fungal pathogen, and due to the rise of fungal infections and emerging resistance to the limited antifungals available, it is important to develop novel and more specific antifungals. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) can be applied as very specific drug targets. However, because of the aberrant codon usage of
C. albicans
, the traditional yeast two-hybrid system in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is difficult to use, and only a limited number of PPIs have been described in
C. albicans
. To overcome this, a
C. albicans
two-hybrid (C2H) system was developed in 2010. The current work describes, for the first time, the application of the C2H system in a high-throughput setup. We hereby show the usefulness of the C2H system to investigate and detect PPIs in
C. albicans
, making it possible to further elucidate protein networks in
C. albicans
, which has the potential to lead to the development of novel antifungals which specifically disrupt PPIs important for virulence.
Reducing healthcare conflict: outcomes from using the conflict management framework
Authors: Forbat Liz , Barclay Sarah
Published: August 2018

Objective

To test a new conflict management framework (CMF) to help staff identify and de-escalate conflict between staff and patients/families.

Design

Before/after study that reports staff quality of life, frequency/severity of conflicts and qualitative interviews on using the framework. Data were collected from May 2017 to September 2017.

Setting

A paediatric oncology department day-patient and 23-bed inpatient ward.

Intervention

A two-stage CMF used by staff during daily handovers to identify and then manage conflict cases with families.

Results

Staff found the CMFto be helpful in identifying and de-escalating conflicts. The number of conflicts reported decreased by 64% from baseline to follow-up. Communication regarding conflict identification improved. Reports of staff burn-out decreased between the two time-points (n=55 at baseline, n=31 at follow-up; p=0.001). Scores on compassion and secondary traumatic stress did not change.

Conclusions

The CMF substantially reduces the incidence of conflicts and is an acceptable approach for staff. Continued use of the framework would require it to be fully integrated into the working of the ward, which would need to include senior medical buy-in. Further refinements to the framework have been made and will be tested in four UK sites in 2018/2019.
Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest: the development of an algorithm to guide recognition, management and decisions to terminate resuscitation
Authors: Vassallo James , Nutbeam Tim , Rickard Annette C , Lyttle Mark D , Scholefield Barney , Maconochie Ian K , Smith Jason E
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is a high acuity, low frequency event. Traditionally, survival from TCA has been reported as low, with some believing resuscitation is futile. Within the adult population, there is growing evidence to suggest that with early and aggressive correction of reversible causes, survival from TCA may be comparable with that seen from medical out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Key to this survival has been the adoption of a standardised approach to resuscitation. The aim of this study was, by a process of consensus, to develop an algorithm for the management of paediatric TCA for adoption in the UK.

Methods

A modified consensus development meeting of UK experts involved in the management of paediatric TCA was held. Statements discussed at the meeting were drawn from those that did not reach consensus (positive/negative) from a linked three-round online Delphi study. 19 statements relating to the diagnosis, management and futility of paediatric TCA were initially discussed in small groups before each participant anonymously recorded their agreement with the statement using ‘yes’, ‘no’ or ‘don’t know’. In keeping with our Delphi study, consensus was set a priori at 70%. Statements reaching consensus were included in the proposed algorithm.

Results

41 participants attended the meeting. Of the 19 statements discussed, 13 reached positive consensus and were included in the algorithm. A single statement regarding initial rescue breaths reached negative consensus and was excluded. Consensus was not reached for five statements, including the use of vasopressors and thoracotomy for haemorrhage control in blunt trauma.

Conclusion

In attempt to standardise our approach to the management of paediatric TCA and to improve outcomes, we present the first consensus-based algorithm specific to the paediatric population. While this algorithm was developed for adoption in the UK, it may be applicable to similar healthcare systems internationally.
Effects of feeding Aspergillus oryzae fermentation product to transition Holstein cows on performance and health
Authors: Sucu Ekin , Moore Chel , VanBaale Matthew J. , Jensen Howard , Sanz-Fernandez Maria V. , Baumgard Lance H.
Published: August 2018

Two experiments examined the effects of Aspergillus oryzae fermentation product (AO; Amaferm®; BioZyme Inc., St. Joseph, MO, USA) on productive variables in transition dairy cows. In experiment 1, 33 Holstein cows (22 multiparous and 11 primiparous) were enrolled from −21 to 60 days in milk (DIM). Cows were individually fed either a control total mixed ration (TMR) diet consisting of primarily alfalfa hay and steam-flaked corn [62:38 and 59:41, forage:concentrate (F:C) for prepartum and postpartum phases, respectively] or the control diet along with 15 g d−1 of AO. In experiment 2, 455 multiparous Holstein cows were enrolled from −21 to 121 DIM. Cows were group-fed either a control TMR diet (n = 228) consisting primarily of corn silage and rolled corn (44:56, F:C) or the control diet (n = 227) with 15 g d−1 of AO. In experiment 1, cows fed AO had increased (P < 0.05) milk production compared with controls (37.7 vs. 34.6 kg d−1). Milk composition, dry matter intake, body weight (BW), and BW loss both prepartum and postpartum did not differ (P > 0.10) between treatments. Cows fed AO tended to have decreased plasma nonesterified fatty acids levels (14%, P < 0.10), but plasma glucose concentration did not differ (P = 0.89). In experiment 2, cows fed AO had decreased milk yield (43.0 vs. 43.8; P < 0.05), and increased milk fat content (3.50% vs. 3.38%; P < 0.01) but similar quantities of 3.5% fat-corrected milk (42.5 vs. 42.7 kg d−1; P > 0.10). Results suggest that AO has the potential to improve aspects of milk production efficiency, but the percentage and types of forage utilized may influence the response.
Acoustic detections of Arctic marine mammals near Ulukhaktok, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Halliday W.D. , Pine M.K. , Insley S.J. , Soares R.N. , Kortsalo P. , Mouy X.
Published: August 2018

The Arctic marine environment is changing rapidly through a combination of sea ice loss and increased anthropogenic activity. Given these changes can affect marine animals in a variety of ways, understanding the spatial and temporal distributions of Arctic marine animals is imperative. We use passive acoustic monitoring to examine the presence of marine mammals near Ulukhaktok, Northwest Territories, Canada, from October 2016 to April 2017. We documented bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus Linnaeus, 1758) and beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas (Pallas, 1776)) vocalizations later into the autumn than expected, and we recorded bowhead whales in early April. We recorded ringed seal (Pusa hispida (Schreber, 1775)) vocalizations throughout our deployment, with higher vocal activity than in other studies and with peak vocal activity in January. We recorded bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus (Erxleben, 1777)) throughout the deployment, with peak vocal activity in February. We recorded lower bearded seal vocal activity than other studies, and almost no vocal activity near the beginning of the spring breeding season. Both seal species vocalized more when ice concentration was high. These patterns in vocal activity document the presence of each species at this site over autumn and winter and are a useful comparison for future monitoring.
Optimum run parameters in cold strip rolling
Authors: Falah Abdulazim , Khorshid Emad , Elkholy Ahmed
Published: August 2018

The process of strip rolling is analyzed using engineering mechanics and the theory of plasticity, and presented through a closed form procedure. The effect of input running parameters on the process is presented quantitatively by explicit expressions. The presented expressions are simple to implement on any personal computer, and their execution time is fast. The procedure provides the tools for selecting optimal operating conditions and avoids defects that lead to failure. The minimum required friction to prevent roll-strip skidding is determined. Forward slip as a function of friction and the location of the neutral point on the roll was also determined. The results obtained from this study were found to agree reasonably well with those obtained from the literature. One application of the proposed analysis is demonstrated in the optimal design of cold strip rolling. The optimal solution improved the objective function of maximizing the process outcome by 696%.
Scutellarin Ameliorates Learning and Memory Deficit via Suppressing β-Amyloid Formation and Microglial Activation in Rats with Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion
Authors: Shin Jung-Won , Kweon Ki-Jung , Kim Dong-Kyu , Kim Pyungsoo , Jeon Tae-Dong , Maeng Sungho , Sohn Nak-Won
Published: August 2018

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion is considered as a pivotal factor of cognitive impairment that occurs in cerebrovascular diseases. This study investigated the ameliorating effect of scutellarin (SCT) on spatial cognitive impairment and [Formula: see text]-amyloid (A[Formula: see text]) formation in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion induced by permanent bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (pBCAO). SCT is a flavonoid in medicinal herb of Erigeron breviscapus (vant.) Hand. Mazz. known to have neuroprotective, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the beneficial effect and pivotal mechanism of SCT on cognitive impairment are still unclear. SCT was treated orally with two doses (10 or 30[Formula: see text]mg/kg) for 4 weeks. Results of Morris water maze test performed on the ninth week after pBCAO revealed that SCT (30[Formula: see text]mg/kg)-treated rats had significantly shortened escape latencies in acquisition training trials, significantly prolonged swimming time at the platform and its surrounding zone, significant increase in memory score, significant reduction in the number of target heading, and significant reduction in the time required for the first target heading during the retention trial compared to rats in the sham-control group. SCT significantly inhibited the production of A[Formula: see text] and A[Formula: see text] in brain tissues. However, SCT significantly upregulated the expression levels of amyloid precursor protein and [Formula: see text]-site APP-converting enzyme-1 in the hippocampus. In addition, SCT significantly inhibited the activation of Iba1-expressing microglia in brain tissues. The results suggest that SCT can exert ameliorating effect on spatial cognitive impairment caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion through suppressing A[Formula: see text] formation and microglial activation in brain tissues. Therefore, SCT can be used as a beneficial drug for vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Spirodela polyrhiza and its Chemical Constituent Vitexin Exert Anti-Allergic Effect via ORAI1 Channel Inhibition
Authors: Kim Hyun Jong , Nam Yu Ran , Kim Eun-Jung , Nam Joo Hyun , Kim Woo Kyung
Published: August 2018

Intracellular calcium signaling cascades are integral to early and late allergic responses involving mast cell degranulation and type 2 helper T cell activation, respectively. Both the responses are accompanied by the movement of calcium through the calcium release-activated calcium (CRAC) channel, encoded by the ORAI1 gene. Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid (SP) has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects, but its effect on calcium signaling has not been reported. This study investigated whether a 30% ethanolic SP extract (SPEtOH) and its constituents can reduce CRAC currents ([Formula: see text]), and thus inhibit mast cell degranulation and T cell activation. In Jurkat T lymphocytes, we found that 3[Formula: see text]mg/mL SPEtOH inhibited the [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text]%, whereas one of its constituents vitexin (100[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M) inhibited the [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text]%. Furthermore, in the RBL-2H3 mast cell, the [Formula: see text] was inhibited by 3[Formula: see text]mg/mL SPEtOH ([Formula: see text]%) and 100[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M vitexin ([Formula: see text]%). Investigation of human primary T cell proliferation induced by co-stimulation with antibodies to cluster of differentiation 3 and 28, and of RBL-2H3 mast cell degranulation following IgE-antigen complex stimulation revealed that 100[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M vitexin inhibited both T-cell proliferation (by [Formula: see text]%) and mast cell degranulation (by [Formula: see text]%). These effects were concentration-dependent, and no cytotoxicity was observed. Our findings suggest that vitexin is a promising candidate compound for the development of therapeutic agents to prevent and treat allergic diseases.
Curcumin Suppresses microRNA-7641-Mediated Regulation of p16 Expression in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Wang Kai , Tan Sheng-Lan , Lu Qiong , Xu Ran , Cao Jian , Wu Shui-Qing , Wang Yin-Huai , Zhao Xiao-Kun , Zhong Zhao-Hui
Published: August 2018

Bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate and requires adjuvant intravesical management after surgery. The use of traditional agents for bladder cancer therapy is constrained by their toxicity and limited efficacy. This emphasizes the need for the development of safer, more effective compounds such as instillation agents. Curcumin is the major component of turmeric, the powdered root of Curcuma longa, which is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anticancer properties. First, a microarray profiling and qPCR analysis were conducted in the T24 and SV-HUC-1 cell lines. Then, we examined the potential tumorigenicity of miR-7641 in the T24 and SV-HUC-1 cell lines with or without curcumin. Western blot analysis showed that p16 is a target of miR-7641 in T24 cells. We found that, for the first time, curcumin directly downregulates a tumor-promoting microRNA (miRNA), miR-7641, in bladder cancer, which has tumor-promoting characteristics. Curcumin induces the downregulation of miR-7641 and subsequent upregulation of p16 which is a target of miR-7641 at the post-transcriptional level, which leads to the decreased invasion and increased apoptosis of bladder cancer cells. This is the first report to show a direct effect of curcumin on inducing changes in a miRNA suppressor with direct anticancer consequences in bladder cancer. Our study shows that curcumin may be a candidate agent for the clinical management of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Complex geometry of nuclei and atoms
Authors: Atiyah M. F. , Manton N. S.
Published: August 2018

We propose a new geometrical model of matter, in which neutral atoms are modelled by compact, complex algebraic surfaces. Proton and neutron numbers are determined by a surface’s Chern numbers. Equivalently, they are determined by combinations of the Hodge numbers, or the Betti numbers. Geometrical constraints on algebraic surfaces allow just a finite range of neutron numbers for a given proton number. This range encompasses the known isotopes.
Abundant mixed lump-kink solutions to a (2+1)-dimensional bSK equation
Authors: Liu Zeguang
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we study lump-kink solutions of a (2+1)-dimensional bidirectional Sawada–Kotera equation and discuss their dynamics. A Hirota bilinear form of a (2+1)-dimensional bidirectional Sawada–Kotera equation is deduced via a dependent logarithmic transformation. Based on this Hirota bilinear equation, we obtain eight classes of lump-kink solutions which combine stripe soliton and lump soliton by using symbolic computations. Our simulation results with the appropriate choice of the arbitrary parameters that show the motion of lump soliton and the process of interaction between lump soliton and a stripe soliton.
Mathematical modeling of contact tracing as a control strategy of Ebola virus disease
Authors: Berge T. , Ouemba Tassé A. J. , Tenkam H. M. , Lubuma J.
Published: August 2018

More than 20 outbreaks of Ebola virus disease have occurred in Africa since 1976, and yet no adequate treatment is available. Hence, prevention, control measures and supportive treatment remain the only means to avoid the disease. Among these measures, contact tracing occupies a prominent place. In this paper, we propose a simple mathematical model that incorporates imperfect contact tracing, quarantine and hospitalization (or isolation). The control reproduction number [Formula: see text] of each sub-model and for the full model are computed. Theoretically, we prove that when [Formula: see text] is less than one, the corresponding model has a unique globally asymptotically stable disease-free equilibrium. Conversely, when [Formula: see text] is greater than one, the disease-free equilibrium becomes unstable and a unique globally asymptotically stable endemic equilibrium arises. Furthermore, we numerically support the analytical results and assess the efficiency of different control strategies. Our main observation is that, to eradicate EVD, the combination of high contact tracing (up to 90%) and effective isolation is better than all other control measures, namely: (1) perfect contact tracing, (2) effective isolation or full hospitalization, (3) combination of medium contact tracing and medium isolation.
Brown measure and asymptotic freeness of elliptic and related matrices
Authors: Adhikari Kartick , Bose Arup
Published: August 2018

We show that independent elliptic matrices converge to freely independent elliptic elements. Moreover, the elliptic matrices are asymptotically free with deterministic matrices under appropriate conditions. We compute the Brown measure of the product of elliptic elements. It turns out that this Brown measure is same as the limiting spectral distribution.
Exploring the link between the flow zone indicator and key open-hole log measurements: an application of dimensional analysis
Authors: Garrouch Ali A. , Al-Sultan Athbi A.
Published: August 2018

Dimensional analysis has been used as a tool for developing a non-linear empirical model giving the flow zone indicator (FZI) as a function of open-hole log measurements. Dimensional analysis confirms that interval transit time (Δ
t
), true resistivity (
R
t
), bulk density (
ρ
b
), the apparent water resistivity (
R
wa
) and the photo-electric absorption (
P
e
) are essential well-log measurements for estimating the FZI in sandstone formations.

A unique power-law relationship has emerged between a dimensionless FZI group (
λ
) and a dimensionless resistivity group

(
Ω
)

for distinct hydraulic flow units. Petrotyping, using either the discrete rock type (DRT) approach or the global hydraulic elements (GHE) approach, appears to provide a credible framework for comparative hydraulic flow unit description. Dimensionless groups permitted the analysis of the effect of several operational variables. The FZI increases with increasing bulk density, and with increasing interval transit time. On the other hand, the FZI decreases with increasing true resistivity (
R
t
). The relationship between the FZI and the photo-electric absorption is more intricate, though, since it depends on the value of the power-law exponent

ϖ

.

Conventional log data from an oil well (well B), penetrating two distinct sandstone oil reservoirs in an onshore sandstone oilfield in the Middle East, were used to validate the dimensionless groups. For the field case presented, the FZI empirical model prediction capability does not appear to be diminished by the existence of a capillary transition zone. The FZI-based model, used for estimating permeability, represents an improvement in the prediction of permeability provided that reliable estimates of the FZI are available. Dimensional analysis proved to be a powerful modelling tool capable of revealing fine relationships that are invisible to exhaustive data mining techniques.
The Future of Nanotechnology in Plant Pathology
Authors: Elmer Wade , White Jason C.
Published: August 2018

Engineered nanoparticles are materials between 1 and 100 nm and exist as metalloids, metallic oxides, nonmetals, and carbon nanomaterials and as functionalized dendrimers, liposomes, and quantum dots. Their small size, large surface area, and high reactivity have enabled their use as bactericides/ fungicides and nanofertilizers. Nanoparticles can be designed as biosensors for plant disease diagnostics and as delivery vehicles for genetic material, probes, and agrichemicals. In the past decade, reports of nanotechnology in phytopathology have grown exponentially. Nanomaterials have been integrated into disease management strategies and diagnostics and as molecular tools. Most reports summarized herein are directed toward pathogen inhibition using metalloid/metallic oxide nanoparticles as bactericides/fungicides and as nanofertilizers to enhance health. The use of nanoparticles as biosensors in plant disease diagnostics is also reviewed. As global demand for food production escalates against a changing climate, nanotechnology could sustainably mitigate many challenges in disease management by reducing chemical inputs and promoting rapid detection of pathogens.
An ethanolic extract ofArtemisia scopariainhibits lipolysis in vivo and has antilipolytic effects on murine adipocytes in vitro
Authors: Boudreau Anik , Richard Allison J. , Burrell Jasmine A. , King William T. , Dunn Ruth , Schwarz Jean-Marc , Ribnicky David M. , Rood Jennifer , Salbaum J. Michael , Stephens Jacqueline M.
Published: August 2018

An ethanolic extract of Artemisia scoparia (SCO) has metabolically favorable effects on adipocyte development and function in vitro and in vivo. In diet-induced obese mice, SCO supplementation significantly reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels. Given the importance of adipocyte lipolysis in metabolic health, we hypothesized that SCO modulates lipolysis in vitro and in vivo. Free fatty acids and glycerol were measured in the sera of mice fed a high-fat diet with or without SCO supplementation. In cultured 3T3-L1 adipocytes, the effects of SCO on lipolysis were assessed by measuring glycerol and free fatty acid release. Microarray analysis, qPCR, and immunoblotting were used to assess gene expression and protein abundance. We found that SCO supplementation of a high-fat diet in mice substantially reduces circulating glycerol and free fatty acid levels, and we observed a cell-autonomous effect of SCO to significantly attenuate tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα)-induced lipolysis in cultured adipocytes. Although several prolipolytic and antilipolytic genes were identified by microarray analysis of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue from SCO-fed mice, regulation of these genes did not consistently correlate with SCO’s ability to reduce lipolytic metabolites in sera or cell culture media. However, in the presence of TNFα in cultured adipocytes, SCO induced antilipolytic changes in phosphorylation of hormone-sensitive lipase and perilipin. Together, these data suggest that the antilipolytic effects of SCO on adipose tissue play a role in the ability of this botanical extract to improve whole body metabolic parameters and support its use as a dietary supplement to promote metabolic resiliency.
Provoking the Adversary by Detecting Eavesdropping and Jamming Attacks: A Game‐Theoretical Framework
Authors: Salem Ahmed , Liao Xuening , Shen Yulong , Jiang Xiaohong
Published: August 2018

This paper investigates the secrecy and reliability of a communication where the user is assisting an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) in detecting the adversary’s attack. The adversary is assumed to be sophisticated such that it can conduct eavesdropping and jamming attacks. The IDS is equipped with the capability of detecting both of those attacks. Two scenarios were considered; the first scenario is that the user is trying to detect the adversary by assisting the IDS, and the second scenario is that the user is equipped with a silent time slot in its communication protocol besides assisting the IDS, in order to provoke the adversary into jamming the channel, thus detecting it with a higher probability. Interestingly, adding the capability of detecting eavesdropping attacks pushed the adversary into conducting jamming attacks much more, thus aiding in detecting the adversary earlier. All of that was modeled by means of stochastic game theory, in order to analyze and study the behavior and the interactions between the user and the adversary. Results show a major improvement in the first scenario by 188% and an improvement by 294% in the second scenario in the game value when the probability of detecting eavesdropping attacks was 0.3, which represents the payoff that the user gains in terms of secrecy and reliability.
Increasing Permeability of Coal Seam and Improving Gas Drainage Using a Liquid Carbon Dioxide Phase Transition Explosive Technology
Authors: He Wenrui , He Fulian , Zhang Kun , Zhao Yongqiang , Zhu Hengzhong
Published: August 2018

The low permeability of coal seams makes gas drainage difficult in lots of coal mines. This study presents a low‐temperature, safe, and efficient liquid carbon dioxide phase transition explosive technology (LCDPTET) to increase the permeability of coal, thereby improving the efficiency of gas drainage and eliminating the dangers of coal and gas outburst. Meanwhile, an integrated approach for experimental determination, numerical simulation, and field testing was applied to study the damage ranges of coal and to determine a reasonable spacing between the gas drainage hole and blast hole. A numerical simulation model of liquid carbon dioxide phase transition explosion (LCDPTE) was built, and the damage index M was introduced to analyze the degree and range of coal damage after explosion at different spacings between the blast hole and the gas drainage hole. Furthermore, another aim was the assessment of the permeability changes and comparison of the gas drainage effects of different borehole spacings. The results showed that as the borehole spacing became smaller, the degree of coal damage around the gas drainage hole increased, and the gas drainage effect improved. However, to avoid the collapse of the gas drainage hole, the gas drainage holes should not be located in the crushing zone caused by LCDPTE. Based on the numerical analysis conducted to guide the borehole arrangement of the field test, the latter was carried out to study the increasing ranges of permeability of coal and the drainage effect after explosion. The results indicated that LCDPTET could greatly improve the permeability of the coal seam and gas drainage efficiency. In addition, this new technology could not only improve the safety and efficiency of mine production but could also turn carbon dioxide into an effective energy source worthy of popularization and application.
Evaluation of the Wind‐Resistant Performance of Long‐Span Cable‐Stayed Bridge Using the Monitoring Correlation between the Static Cross Wind and Its Displacement Response
Authors: Wang Gaoxin , Ding Youliang , Feng Dongming , Ye Jihong
Published: August 2018

The wind‐resistant performance of existing long‐span cable‐stayed bridge structures will inevitably deteriorate due to concrete carbonation, reinforcement corrosion, accumulated fatigue damage, etc., which can threaten the entire bridge safety. However, few studies currently focus on assessing the wind‐resistant performance of existing long‐span cable‐stayed bridge structures, and at present, no studies have revealed how to identify the deterioration of the wind‐resistant performance using a bridge health‐monitoring technique. Therefore, based on the health‐monitoring system installed on the Sutong Cable‐stayed Bridge, the monitoring wind field and GPS displacement are captured to analyze the wind‐resistant performance. First, the correlation between static cross wind and transversal displacement is analyzed, which is nearly linear but also contains discrete points caused by environmental noise. Second, considering that the discrete points can decrease the identification accuracy, one new method called the cross‐correlation analysis of wavelet packet coefficients is put forward to effectively remove the discrete points. Third, considering that the traditional function cannot match the monitoring correlation very well, some new fitting functions are thoroughly studied to determine the best function for fitting the monitoring correlation. Fourth, the abnormal variation in the monitoring correlation caused by a deterioration in the wind‐resistant performance is studied, and the root‐mean‐square (RMS) variable, which represents the difference between a good service state and a deteriorated service state, is used as a detection indicator to identify the deterioration of wind‐resistant performance. Finally, the monitoring data from ten months are selected to evaluate the wind‐resistant performance of the Sutong Bridge, and the result shows that its wind‐resistant performance was still in a good service state during these ten months.
miR‐146a Attenuates Sepsis‐Induced Myocardial Dysfunction by Suppressing IRAK1 and TRAF6 via Targeting ErbB4 Expression
Authors: An Rui , Feng Jianxin , Xi Cong , Xu Jian , Sun Lijun
Published: August 2018

Myocardial dysfunction is a major manifestation of sepsis and closely associated with the increased mortality. MicroRNA‐146 is one of the most important microRNAs identified as a potent negative regulator in innate immune and inflammatory responses induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We aimed to identify the role and potential regulatory mechanism of miR‐146a in sepsis‐induced cardiac dysfunction with the induction of ErbB4 signaling. H9C2 cells were treated with LPS to induce sepsis, and miR‐146a overexpression significantly increased the cell viability, reduced the apoptosis and ROS level, and attenuated the release of proinflammatory cytokines including TNF‐α and IL‐1β. Levels of ErbB4, p‐NF‐κB, NF‐κB, TRAF6, IRAK1, caspase 3, Bcl‐2, and Bax were measured by Western blot. The overexpression of miR‐146a significantly increased the ErbB4 expression, decreased the expression of TRAF6, IRAK1, caspase 3, and the phosphorylation level of NF‐κB, and also increased the Bcl‐2/Bax ratio, suggesting the inhibition of inflammation and apoptosis. The protective effects were all abolished by the use of siErbB4. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that the overexpression of miR‐146a mitigates myocardial injury by negatively regulating NF‐κB activation and inflammatory cytokine production via targeting ErbB4 in LPS‐induced sepsis.
Chronic Exposure to Sodium Fluoride Triggers Oxidative Biochemistry Misbalance in Mice: Effects on Peripheral Blood Circulation
Authors: Miranda Giza Hellen Nonato , Gomes Bruno Alexandre Quadros , Bittencourt Leonardo Oliveira , Aragão Walessa Alana Bragança , Nogueira Lygia Sega , Dionizio Aline Salgado , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Monteiro Marta Chagas , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: August 2018

The excessive fluoride (F) exposure is associated with damage to cellular processes of different tissue types, due to changes in enzymatic metabolism and breakdown of redox balance. However, few studies evaluate doses of F compatible with human consumption. Thus, this study evaluated the effects of chronic exposure to sodium fluoride (NaF) on peripheral blood of mice from the evaluation of biochemical parameters. The animals were divided into three groups (n = 10) and received three concentrations of NaF in the drinking water for 60 days: 0 mg/L F, 10 mg/L F, and 50 mg/L F. The blood was then collected for trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), concentrations of nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH). The results showed that doses of 10 mg/L F and 50 mg/L F were able to increase TBARS concentration and decrease NO levels and CAT activity in the blood, but there was no statistical difference for SOD levels. The 50 mg/L F group showed an increase in TEAC levels and a decrease in the GSH content when compared to the control group. In this way, oxidative changes in blood from chronic exposure to F, especially at the highest dose, indicate that F may be a toxic agent and, therefore, the long‐term exposure to excessive doses should be avoided.
EGFR Exon 20 Insertion Mutations Display Sensitivity to Hsp90 Inhibition in Preclinical Models and Lung Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Jorge Susan E. , Lucena-Araujo Antonio R. , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Piotrowska Zofia , Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Rangachari Deepa , Huberman Mark S. , Sequist Lecia V. , Kobayashi Susumu S. , Costa Daniel B.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

EGFR exon 20 insertions account for up to 10% of all EGFR mutations in lung adenocarcinomas, representing the third most common cluster of mutations. The management of advanced cancers with these mutations remains elusive, without an approved inhibitor.

Experimental Design:

Preclinical models of a representative set of EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations to evaluate the efficacy of different inhibitors and description of the clinical outcome of an advanced lung cancer.

Results:

We show that select first-, second-, and third-generation EGFR inhibitors are unable to deter common EGFR exon 20 insertion mutants in concentrations that spare the wild-type kinase. Nonetheless, EGFR exon 20 insertion mutants associate with the Hsp90 chaperone system. We exploit this vulnerability to show that the nongeldanamycin Hsp90 inhibitor luminespib (formerly AUY922) degrades EGFR exon 20 mutations, downstream targets, and induces apoptosis. In addition, a patient whose EGFR inhibitor–insensitive lung adenocarcinoma harbored an EGFR exon 20 insertion mutation had a confirmed radiographic response to luminespib.

Conclusions:

The report confirms that EGFR exon 20 mutations are dependent on Hsp90 and are readily inhibited by the Hsp90 inhibitor luminespib; a treatment strategy that has been pursued in a confirmatory clinical trial (NCT01854034) for this group of lung adenocarcinomas that currently represent an unmet clinical need in precision oncology.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Propane Metabolism in Mycobacterium sp. Strain ENV421 and Rhodococcus sp. Strain ENV425
Authors: Tupa Peter Robert , Masuda Hisako
Published: August 2018

While growing on propane as a sole source of carbon, many strains cometabolically degrade environmental pollutants, such as ethers and chlorinated hydrocarbons. To gain insights into the molecular basis behind such a high metabolic versatility of propanotrophs, we examined the propane-inducible protein expression patterns of 2 soil actinobacteria that are known to degrade a variety of ethers (i.e., Mycobacterium sp. strain ENV421 and Rhodococcus sp. strain ENV425). In both strains, soluble diiron monooxygenase(s), that would catalyze the first step of the pathway, were induced by propane. However, despite their phylogenetic similarity, different sets of additional putative propane oxygenases (e.g., cytochrome P450 and particulate methane monooxygenases) were overexpressed in the 2 strains. They also diverged in the expression of enzymes responsible for downstream reactions. This study revealed a diversity of expression of putative propane oxygenases, which may be responsible for xenobiotic degradation, as well as a variety of metabolic pathways for propane in these bacterial species.
Unmet Needs in High-Grade Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (WHO G3)
Authors: Sorbye Halfdan , Baudin Eric , Borbath Ivan , Caplin Martyn , Chen Jie , Cwikla Jaroslaw B. , Frilling Andrea , Grossman Ashley , Kaltsas Gregory , Scarpa Aldo , Welin Staffan , Garcia-Carbonero Rocio ,   ENETS 2016 Munich Advisory Board Participants
Published: August 2018

Gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) neuroendocrine neoplasms (NEN) are classified based on morphology and graded based on their proliferation rate as either well-differentiated low-grade (G1 to G2) neuroendocrine tumors (NET) or poorly differentiated high-grade (G3) neuroendocrine carcinomas (NEC). Recently, a new subgroup of well-differentiated high-grade pancreatic tumors (NET G3) has been defined. The GEP NEN G3 group consisting of both NEC and NET G3 has recently been shown to be a quite heterogeneous patient group concerning prognosis and treatment benefit, depending on factors such as the primary tumor site, differentiation, proliferation rate, and molecular alterations. In this review we discuss the existing data on diagnostics, treatment, and biomarkers in this patient group, the unmet needs, and the future perspectives.
The Frontiers of Uneven and Combined Development
Authors: Davidson Neil
Published: August 2018

Alexander Anievas and Kerem Nişancıoğlu’sHow the West Came to Ruleis an important intervention within Marxist historical debates which seeks to use the theory of uneven and combined development (UCD) to explain the origin and rise to dominance of capitalism. The argument is shaped by a critique of Political Marxist ‘internalist’ explanations of the process, to which the authors counterpose an account which emphasises its inescapably ‘inter-societal’ nature. While recognising the many contributions that the book makes to our historical understanding, this article argues that these insights do not depend onUCD, and could have been arrived at without reference to it. In particular, it will try to show thatUCDis inapplicable in periods before the consolidation of capitalism, but might be more usefully extended spatially rather than chronologically.
Henry More and William Petty: Revisiting an Early Modern Polemic
Authors: Dobre Mihnea
Published: August 2018

This paper explores an overlooked aspect of the brief but intense correspondence between William Petty and Henry More, making use of the Hartlib Papers Online. Traditionally, the brief epistolary exchange between More and Petty has been seen in the light of an opposition between Cartesian rationalism and Baconian empiricism. A look at the original manuscripts, however, shows that the opposition was not originally framed in those terms at all. This article draws attention to the actors’ original categories, and places this exchange in the evolving landscape of seventeenth-century natural philosophy.
The genus Asiagomphus in Vietnam, with descriptions of three new species, and first descriptions of the male of Asiagomphus auricolor (Fraser, 1926) and of the female of Asiagomphus reinhardti Kosterin & Yokoi, 2016 (Odonata: Gomphidae)
Authors: KOMPIER TOM
Published: August 2018

The occurrence in Vietnam of eight species of Asiagomphus Asahina, 1985 is discussed. Three new species are described (Asiagomphus kosterini [holotype: Da Lat, Lam Dong Prov., (appr. 11.880 N, 108.442 E), 17-IV-2016], Asiagomphus monticola [holotype: Xuan Son NP, Phu Tho Prov., (appr. 21.163 N, 104.896 E), 31-V-2014], and Asiagomphus superciliaris [holotype: Huu Lien NR, Lang Son Prov., (appr. 21.686 N, 106.376 E), 01-V-2014], and the male of Asiagomphus auricolor (Fraser, 1926) and the female of Asiagomphus reinhardti Kosterin & Yokoi, 2016 are described for the first time. The female of Asiagomphus auricolor is redescribed. Distribution and ecology of all species and a key to the males occurring in Vietnam are provided.
Échapper à la menace du fondamentalisme religieux
Authors: Vanasse-Pelletier Mathilde
Published: August 2018

Cet article aborde la manière dont sont construites les catégories de « déviance » et de « normalité » en lien avec la religion mormone (fondamentaliste et mainstream) dans la série de téléréalité Breaking the Faith. Cette série diffusée à la chaîne TLC en 2013 présente des jeunes membres de l’Église fondamentaliste de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours (FLDS) s’adaptant à la vie à l’extérieur de leur groupe d’origine, dans la capitale du mormonisme mainstream (LDS), Salt Lake City. Nous mettons à jour, en nous basant sur une perspective constructiviste de la déviance, plus particulièrement la théorie de l’étiquetage, la manière dont la religion (monogame) de l’Église de Jésus-Christ des Saints des Derniers Jours est représentée comme légitime et normale en contraste avec celle des groupes mormons polygames, présentés comme déviants. Pour ce faire, la trame narrative de la série est étudiée, ainsi que les modalités de mise en scène – teintées d’une rhétorique anti-sectes – dans lesquelles s’ancrent les représentations de ces nouveaux mouvements religieux.
From Whose Womb Did the Ice Come Forth? Augustine of Hippo, Gregory the Great, and Thomas Aquinas on Job 38:29
Authors: McAlister Shannon M.
Published: August 2018

Against the backdrop of current debates over womb-imagery for God, this article examines the writings of Augustine of Hippo, Gregory the Great, and Thomas Aquinas on Job 38:29 (‘From whose womb did the ice come forth?’). In the works of these Fathers and Doctors of the Church, the ‘womb’ of Job 38:29 is a multivalent symbol that has been interpreted in a variety of ways—including as a reference to the ‘womb of the Creator’ that conceives and gives birth to creatures. These patristic and medieval texts highlight several characteristics of the maternal body, showing that metaphors of pregnancy and birth do not necessarily symbolize dependency, immanence, materiality, or an identity with one’s child: the imagery of a pregnant and birthing God has not always been construed to imply a pantheistic identity between God and the material world, or a divine dependency upon creation.
David Coffey: Reshaping Traditional Theology
Authors: Crittenden Paul
Published: August 2018

The article seeks to locate the genealogy of David Coffey’s systematic theology in his original search for a unified account of grace. This led to the recovery of early but forgotten ways of thinking about the central doctrines of the Trinity and Christology related especially to the role of the Holy Spirit in the Incarnation. Coffey’s Spirit Christology, based on the Synoptic Gospels and patristic reflection, complements the traditional Christology of Chalcedon in ways that throw light on Christ’s humanity and the redemptive character of his death and resurrection. It also grounds a theology of grace, Christian anthropology, death and resurrection, the Church, and the salvation of unbelievers. Coffey is a prominent Australian theologian and the discussion of his thought is set within a brief account of the development of theological studies in the Australian context.
Foaming and thermal characteristics of bio-based polylactic acid–thermoplastic polyurethane blends
Authors: Barmouz Mohsen , Hossein Behravesh Amir
Published: August 2018

This paper reports a research work on characterization of foamed biocompatible polylactic acid–thermoplastic polyurethane blends in terms of microstructural, thermal, and physical properties. The brittleness of the polylactic acid is compensated via blending with an elastoplastic phase of thermoplastic polyurethane. A range of low bulk density foam with a high cell density was produced in a solid state foaming process. Addition of thermoplastic polyurethane phase acted against the cell growth and thus foam expansion, apparently due to its inherent lower storage modulus, which weakens the polymer matrix and leads to gas escape phenomenon. Evaluation of thermal properties showed a tangible effect of blending and foaming process on crystallization of the specimens, which confirmed that the sensitivity of polylactic acid’s crystallinity to CO2 gas saturation was reduced as a result of thermoplastic polyurethane addition. Measurement of cell diameters and cell densities of the foamed samples demonstrated formation of the fine closed cells structure as a result of suitable foaming parameters that were able to deal with stiffness and strength of the polymeric matrix.
Before: The avant-textes of “From Man to Man” and Olive Schreiner’s writing practices
Authors: Stanley Liz
Published: August 2018

The “warts and all” transcriptions of two early Olive Schreiner draft manuscripts of parts of what was later published as From Man to Man are examined in detail. They are analysed by treating them as avant-textes and using a genetic criticism approach. Doing so, different aspects of her writing practices come into view around the distinction she made between her “ordinary writing”, which encompassed “in the moment” additions, deletions, and amendments, and what she described as “overworking”, the after the event activities usually termed editing. Although coexisting on the manuscript pages, these are shown to be distinct sets of practices exerting different pressures. Some problems of emplotment and narrative continuity arose through attempting to combine both, so she contemplated having recourse to an earlier version of the manuscript, with hints in letters raising the possibility that this had a different narrative structure.
Long-term immersion exposure of perlite–aluminium syntactic foam in seawater
Authors: Chaves Igor A , Taherishargh Mehdi , Fiedler Thomas
Published: August 2018

Perlite–metal syntactic foam is a novel lightweight material with good specific strength and excellent energy absorption capabilities. To analyse its suitability in marine applications, perlite–metal syntactic foam has been immersed for 2 years in natural flowing seawater. The change of mass and mechanical properties has been studied as a function of exposure time. Results indicate a slow degradation of mechanical properties that can be attributed to a change of the macroscopic deformation mechanism. Interestingly, no evidence of significant corrosion was observed. Instead, the change in mechanical properties is triggered by the sedimentation of oxides and sulphates within the expanded perlite particles. Implications towards the long-term viability of such perlite–metal syntactic foam in marine applications are discussed.
The Church of the Poor and Civil Society in Southern Mexico: Oaxaca, 1960s–2010s
Authors: Lombera Juan Manuel
Published: August 2018

The progressive movement of the Catholic Church that flourished after the Second Vatican Council (1962–5) continues to exert a strong influence on Latin American politics and society. Moreover, we can now observe this movement’s influence in new areas: no longer apparent only in a strictly ecclesiastical sphere, its influence can now be felt within the ambit of civil society. This article analyzes and explains the evolution of ‘the church of the poor’ in Oaxaca from its sponsorship by the Catholic hierarchy starting in the early 1960s through its transformation into civil society organizations beginning in the 1990s.