bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herbal medicine as an auspicious therapeutic approach for the eradication ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection: A concise review
Authors: Ghasemian Abdolmajid , Fattahi Azam , Shokouhi Mostafavi Seyyed Khalil , Almarzoqi Ali Hussein , Memariani Mojtaba , Ben Braiek Olfa , Yassine Hadi M. , Mostafavi Neda Sadat Shokouhi , Ahmed Mohanad Mohsin , Mirforughi Seyede Amene
Published: March 2019

Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) causes gastric mucosa inflammation and gastric cancer mostly via several virulence factors. Induction of proinflammatory pathways plays a crucial role in chronic inflammation, gastric carcinoma, andH. pyloripathogenesis. Herbal medicines (HMs) are nontoxic, inexpensive, and mostly anti‐inflammatory reminding meticulous emphasis on the elimination ofH. pyloriand gastric cancer. Several HM has exerted paramount anti‐H. pyloritraits. In addition, they exert anti‐inflammatory effects through several cellular circuits such as inhibition of 5′‐adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase, nuclear factor‐κB, and activator protein‐1 pathway activation leading to the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1α [IL‐1α], IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐12, interferon γ, and tumor necrosis factor‐α) expression. Furthermore, they inhibit nitrous oxide release and COX‐2 and iNOS activity. The apoptosis induction in Th1 and Th17‐polarized lymphocytes and M2‐macrophagic polarization and STAT6 activation has also been exhibited. Thus, their exact consumable amount has not been revealed, and clinical trials are needed to achieve optimal concentration and their pharmacokinetics. In the aspect of bioavailability, solubility, absorption, and metabolism of herbal compounds, nanocarriers such as poly lactideco‐glycolide‐based loading and related formulations are helpful. Noticeably, combined therapies accompanied by probiotics can also be examined for better clearance of gastric mucosa. In addition, downregulation of inflammatory microRNAs (miRNAs) by HMs and upregulation of those anti‐inflammatory miRNAs is proposed to protect the gastric mucosa. Thus there is anticipation that in near future HM‐based formulations and proper delivery systems are possibly applicable against gastric cancer or other ailments because ofH. pylori.
Ski‐related novel protein suppresses the development of diabetic nephropathy by modulating transforming growth factor‐β signaling and microRNA‐21 expression
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Lingling , Peng Wei , Liu Huiming , Liang Luqun , Zhang Xiaohuan , Mao Yanwen , Zhou Xingcheng , Shi Mingjun , Xiao Ying , Zhang Fan , Zhang Yingying , Liu Lirong , Yan Rui , Guo Bing
Published: March 2019

Unveiling the mechanisms that drive the pathological phenotypes of diabetic nephropathy (DN) could help develop new effective therapeutics for this ailment. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1)/Smad3 signaling is aberrantly induced in DN, leading to elevated microRNA‐21 (miR‐21) expression and tissue fibrosis. Ski‐related novel protein (SnoN) negatively regulates the TGF‐β pathway, but the relationship between SnoN and miR‐21 has not been described in the context of DN. In this study, this association was investigated in vivo (streptozotocin‐induced rat model of diabetes) and in vitro (NRK‐52E model system under high glucose conditions). In both model systems, we observed reduced amounts of the SnoN protein and elevated miR‐21 amounts, indicative of an inverse relationship. These changes in SnoN and miR‐21 amounts were accompanied by reduced E‐cadherin and elevated α‐smooth muscle actin and collagen III levels, consistent with epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). In vitro overexpression of SnoN in NRK‐52E cells downregulated miR‐21 at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels and repressed EMT and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. In contrast, knockdown of SnoN resulted in miR‐21 upregulation, particularly at the transcriptional level. We further demonstrated that overexpression and inhibition of miR‐21 promoted and suppressed EMT and ECM deposition, respectively, without affecting SnoN levels. Our results indicated that SnoN suppresses the development of DN as well as renal fibrosis by downregulating miR‐21, and therefore represents a novel and promising therapeutic target for DN.
Efficient Synthesis of Some New 1,3,4‐Thiadiazoles and 1,2,4‐Triazoles Linked to Pyrazolylcoumarin Ring System as Potent 5α‐Reductase Inhibitors
Authors: Gomha Sobhi M. , Abdel-aziz Hassan M. , Badrey Mohamed G. , Abdulla Mohamed M.
Published: March 2019

The current study in this article concerned with construction of five‐membered heterocycles with multiple heteroatoms as nitrogen and sulfur from readily available starting materials and reagents. Treatment of 1‐(2‐oxo‐2H‐chromene‐3‐carbonyl)‐3‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐5(4H)‐one with each of phenylisothiocyanate in alcoholic potassium hydroxide and carbon disulfide in basic medium gave rise to a thioanilide and methylthio derivatives, respectively. Treatment of the latter compounds with a variety of hydrazonoyl halides resulted in construction of thiadiazole moiety linked to pyrazole ring. Furthermore, triazole derivatives were synthesized from the thioanilide derivative through its reaction with methyl iodide followed by reaction with hydrazonoyl halides. 5α‐Reductase inhibition activity for the prepared compounds was investigated against the reference drug anastrozole, and the results showed that the inhibition activity of compounds 5g and 11g is more potent than anastrozole. Also compounds bearing triazole moiety is more potent than compounds bearing thiadiazole one. Moreover, the anti‐prostate cancer screening anti‐androgenic bioassay in human prostate cancer cells for the tested compounds was evaluated, and the results showed great inhibition growth and potential antiandrogens.
Functional disruption of pyrimidine nucleoside transporter CNT1 results in a novel inborn error of metabolism with high excretion of uridine and cytidine
Authors: Wevers R. A. , Christensen M. , Engelke U. F. H. , Geuer S. , Coene K. L. M. , Kwast J. T. , Lund A. M. , Vissers L. E. L. M.
Published: March 2019

Genetic defects in the pyrimidine nucleoside transporters of the CNT transporter family have not yet been reported. Metabolic investigations in a patient with infantile afebrile tonic‐clonic seizures revealed increased urinary uridine and cytidine excretion. Segregation of this metabolic trait in the family showed the same biochemical phenotype in a healthy older brother of the index. Whole exome sequencing revealed biallelic mutations in SLC28A1 encoding the pyrimidine nucleoside transporter CNT1 in the index and his brother. Both parents and unaffected sibs showed the variant in heterozygous state. The transporter is expressed in the kidneys. Compelling evidence is available for the disrupting effect of the mutation on the transport function thus explaining the increased excretion of the pyrimidine nucleosides. The exome analysis also revealed a pathogenic mutation in PRRT2 in the index, explaining the epilepsy phenotype in infancy. At present, both the index (10 years) and his older brother are asymptomatic. Mutations in SLC28A1 cause a novel inborn error of metabolism that can be explained by the disrupted activity of the pyrimidine nucleoside transporter CNT1. This is the first report describing a defect in the family of CNT concentrative pyrimidine nucleoside transporter proteins encoded by the SLC28 gene family. In all likelihood, the epilepsy phenotype in the index is unrelated to the SLC28A1 defect, as this can be fully explained by the pathogenic PRRT2 variant. Clinical data on more patients are required to prove whether pathogenic mutations in SLC28A1 have any clinical consequences or are to be considered a benign metabolic phenotype.
Differentiating axillary lymph node metastasis in invasive breast cancer patients: A comparison of radiomic signatures from multiparametric breast MR sequences
Authors: Chai Ruimei , Ma He , Xu Mingjie , Arefan Dooman , Cui Xiaoyu , Liu Yi , Zhang Lina , Wu Shandong , Xu Ke
Published: March 2019

Background

The axillary lymph node status is critical for breast cancer staging and individualized treatment planning.

Purpose

To assess the effect of determining axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis by breast MRI‐derived radiomic signatures, and compare the discriminating abilities of different MR sequences.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 120 breast cancer patients, 59 with ALN metastasis and 61 without metastasis, all confirmed by pathology.

Field Strength/Sequence

3 .0T scanner with T1‐weighted imaging, T2‐weighted imaging, diffusion‐weighted imaging, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) sequences.

Assessment

Typical morphological and texture features of the segmented tumor were extracted from four sequences, ie, T1WI, T2WI, DWI, and the second postcontrast phase (CE2) of the dynamic contrast‐enhanced sequences. Additional contrast enhancement kinetic features were extracted from all DCE sequences (one pre‐ and seven postcontrast phases). Linear discriminant analysis classifiers were built and compared when using features from an individual sequence or the combination of the sequences in differentiating the ALN metastasis status.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test, Fisher's exact test, least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) regression, and receiver operating characteristic analysis were performed.

Results

The accuracy/AUC of the four sequences was 79%/0.87, 77%/0.85, 74%/0.79, and 79%/0.85 for the T1WI, CE2, T2WI, and DWI, respectively. When CE2 was augmented by adding kinetic features, the model achieved the highest performance (accuracy = 0.86 and AUC = 0.91). When all features from the four sequences and the kinetics were combined, it did not lead to a further increase in the performance (P = 0.48).

Data Conclusion

Breast tumor's radiomic signatures from preoperative breast MRI sequences are associated with the ALN metastasis status, where CE2 phase and the contrast enhancement kinetic features lead to the highest classification effect.

Level of Evidence 3

Technical Efficacy Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1125–1132.
Bio‐inoculant improves nitrogen‐use efficiency and cotton yield in saline soils
Authors: Khaitov Botir , Allanov Kholik , Islam Khandakar Rafiq , Park Kee Woong
Published: March 2019

Improved nutrient‐use efficiency is important to sustain agricultural production. The goal of our study was to investigate the effects of Azovit® (Azotobacter chroococcum) inoculation of seed with N fertilization on crop yield, nutrient uptake, and N‐use efficiency (NUE) of irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L. cv. C‐6524) in secondary saline soil under continental climatic conditions of Uzbekistan. A randomized complete block design in a 4 × 2 split‐plot experiment was established in the fall of 2013. The main plot was N fertilization (0, 140, 210, and 280 kg ha−1) and the subplot was Azovit inoculation. Azovit inoculation consistently increased the seed and lint yields of cotton by 25 and 27.9%, respectively, at 210 kg N ha−1 compared to the respective control. Azovit with 210 kg N ha−1 significantly increased the cotton harvest index by 21%, when compared to the control. Likewise, nutrient uptake and NUE of cotton were higher when N (210 kg ha−1) was applied with Azovit, as compared to other treatment combinations. An extrapolation of the relationship of relative yield vs. N fertilization showed that Azovit at 210 kg N ha−1 was sufficient to obtain near‐maximum cotton production (90%) with highest NUE, as compared to the respective control. The results suggest that Azovit with 210 kg N ha−1 produces cotton yield higher and/or comparable with the currently used rates of 280 kg N ha−1 or higher, suggesting savings of 70 kg N ha−1 for cotton production in saline soils under continental climatic conditions.
Effects of ZnSO4 and Zn‐EDTA applied by broadcasting or by banding on soil Zn fractions and Zn uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Zhao Aiqing , Yang Shu , Wang Bini , Tian Xiaohong
Published: March 2019

Zinc biofortification of staple food crops is essential for alleviating worldwide human malnutrition. Agronomic interventions to promote this should include fertilizer selection and management. A chelated Zn source, Zn‐EDTA, and an inorganic Zn source, ZnSO4 × 7 H2O, were applied either by banding or by broadcasting in soil, and Zn fractions in soil and Zn uptake by wheat were determined in a pot experiment. Compared to ZnSO4 × 7 H2O, Zn‐EDTA produced higher Zn concentration in grain regardless of application method and even at a lower application rate. Residual Zn fraction was the largest Zn fraction with both ZnSO4 and Zn‐EDTA amendment. ZnSO4 banded in soil caused Zn fractions to be restricted to the Zn‐amended soil band and resulted in lower grain Zn concentrations than did broadcast ZnSO4. Planting wheat slowed Zn fixation by promoting the maintenance of a high concentration of Zn fraction loosely bound to organic matter (LOM‐Zn) in soil. Zn‐EDTA was a better Zn source for Zn biofortification of wheat than was ZnSO4.
The internal link of serum steroid hormones levels in insomnia, depression, and Alzheimer's disease rats: Is there an effective way to distinguish among these three diseases based on potential biomarkers?
Authors: Yang Xiao , Wang Zhenru , Zhang Qian , Liu Ran , Xu Huarong , Bi Kaishun , Li Qing
Published: March 2019

Insomnia, depression, and Alzheimer's disease are all neurodegenerative diseases and are associated with the levels of steroid hormones. To investigate the internal connection and difference of steroid hormones among these three diseases and distinguish them from the perspective of biomarkers, an easy, quick, and efficient high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was established and validated to determine six steroid hormones simultaneously in rat serum. The separation was accomplished on a SHIM‐PACK XR‐ODS chromatographic column with 0.1% v/v formic acid and methanol as the mobile phase and the detection was performed with electrospray ionization source in the positive ion mode. Based on the concentrations of steroid hormones, all the groups could be distinguished obviously from each other by using partial least square discriminant analysis. Meanwhile, 11‐deoxycortisol, corticosterone, and cortisol were identified as potential biomarkers and 100% of samples were classified correctly by Bayes’ discriminant function. These biomarkers were further screened by one‐way analysis of variance and cortisol was significantly different among all these groups. Bayes’ discriminant function was also built by cortisol and the classification accuracy was 87.2%. This workflow including determination of steroid hormones and discrimination among three neurological diseases would provide a basis for further clinical studies.
Market segmentation based on the environmentally responsible behaviors of community‐based tourists: Evidence from Taiwan's community‐based destinations
Authors: Lee Tsung Hung , Jan Fen‐Hauh
Published: March 2019

This study attempts to identify the profiles of community‐based tourists based on their environmentally responsible behaviors (ERBs) and discusses marketing and managerial strategies for sustainable community‐based tourism (CBT). The findings reveal that tourists can be categorized into four segments based on their ERBs: low‐ERB tourists, high‐ERB tourists, civil action and sustainable tourists, and multi‐ERB tourists. The implications of this paper can be helpful for elucidating tourists' implementation of ERBs and providing different managerial strategies for CBT. The study's findings contribute to the literature by shedding light on previously proposed but unexamined differences in tourists' ERBs in different stages of CBT.
The use of remifentanil in critically ill patients undergoing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy: A prospective randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: Chang Si‐Yuan , Sun Rong‐Qing , Feng Min , Liu Gang , Xu Da‐Qian , Wang Hai‐Li , Xu Yu‐Ming
Published: March 2019

Remifentanil was a μ‐agonist, with a rapid onset, a powerful narcotic analgesic activity and a fast nonspecific esterases hydrolyzation and theoretically an ideal opioid for percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT). The present study discussed use of remifentanil in critically ill patients undergoing PDT. Ninety‐nine patients were randomly assigned to the propofol/remifentanil group (PR group, n = 49) or the propofol group (P group, n = 50). Two patients (one in P group and one in PR group) were excluded and transferred to surgical way of tracheostomy because of uncontrolled bleeding. The primary outcomes were critical care pain observation (CPOT) scores during PDT; hemodynamic response and side effects, such as bleeding and muscle rigidity (MR). CPOT scores in P group were significantly higher than in PR group during incision and dilation stages (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). Systolic blood pressure had a significant drop after a bolus of remifentanil in PR group compared with patients in P group (P < 0.056). The incidence of MR was significantly higher in PR group than in P group (P < 0.05). Recovery time in PR group was significantly shorter than in P group (P < 0.05). The occurrence of tachycardia, bleeding, vomiting, and nausea had no statistically differences in both groups. Patients in PR group were undergoing shorter recovery time and better experience of pain in PDT compared with patients in P group, but MR seemed to be higher in PR group. Remifentanil seemed to be a safe and effective opioid used in critically ill patients undergoing PDT.
Microbial community composition in alpine lake sediments from the Hengduan Mountains
Authors: Liao Binqiang , Yan Xiaoxin , Zhang Jiang , Chen Ming , Li Yanling , Huang Jiafeng , Lei Ming , He Hailun , Wang Jun
Published: March 2019

Microbial communities in sediments play an important role in alpine lake ecosystems. However, the microbial diversity and community composition of alpine lake sediments from the Hengduan Mountains remain largely unknown. Therefore, based on the Illumina MiSeq platform, high‐throughput sequencing analysis of the 16S rRNA gene was performed on 15 alpine lake sediments collected at different locations in the Hengduan Mountains. The abundance‐based coverage estimate (ACE), Chao1, and Shannon indices indicated that the microbial abundance and diversity of these sediments were high. There are some differences in the composition of microbial communities among sediments. However, in general, Proteobacteria accounted for the largest proportion of all sediments (22.3%–67.6%) and was the dominant phylum. Followed by Bacteroidetes, Acidobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Planctomycetes. In addition, the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) interactions network had modular structures and suggested more cooperation than competition in the microbial community. Besides, we also found that temperature has a significant contribution to the sample–environment relationship. This study revealed the diversity and composition of microbial communities in alpine lake sediments from the Hengduan Mountains, and describe the correlation between microbial community structure and different environmental variables.
Substrate‐integrated waveguide‐based slot antenna for 60 GHz wireless applications
Authors: Mungaru Nanda Kumar , Shanmuganantham Thangavelu
Published: March 2019

The substrate‐integrated waveguide (SIW)‐based slot antenna is proposed for millimeter wave applications that is 60 GHz applications. The proposed design uses a microstrip feed for excitation, the crown‐shaped slot is used, and dimensions are 14 mm × 8.4 mm × 0.381 mm. The genaralized parameters of the antenna are reported, those are voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR), reflection coefficient, farfield patterns, efficiencies, and surface current. It has impedance bandwidth of 3.64 GHz by proper alignment of slot that is crown, and resonant frequency is 60 GHz and also included antenna prototype. The reflection coefficient, VSWR of measurement results are reported, and the percentage of impedance bandwidth of simulation and measurement results is 6.06% and 6.02%.
Quantification of intracranial arterial blood flow using noncontrast enhanced 4D dynamic MR angiography
Authors: Shao Xingfeng , Zhao Ziwei , Russin Jonathan , Amar Arun , Sanossian Nerses , Wang Danny JJ , Yan Lirong
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Noncontrast enhanced dynamic magnetic resonance angiography delineates the pattern of dynamic blood flow of the cerebral vasculature. A model‐free solution was proposed to quantify arterial blood flow (aBF) by using the monotonic property of the residual function.

Theory and Methods

Analytical simulations and in‐vivo studies were performed to evaluate the performance of the proposed method by comparing the aBF values generated from the proposed and conventional singular value decomposition methods. The aBF values were compared with blood flow velocity measured by 2D phase contrast MRI, and compared between balanced steady‐state free precession–based radial and spoiled GRE‐based Cartesian acquisitions. Hemodynamic parametric maps were generated in 1 patient with arteriovenous malformation.

Results

The proposed method generates reliable aBF measurement at different signal‐to‐noise ratio levels, whereas overestimation/underestimation of aBF was observed when a high/low threshold was applied in the singular value decomposition method. Average aBF in large vascular branches was 214.4 and 214.5 mL/mL/min with radial and Cartesian acquisitions, respectively. Significant correlations were found between aBF and blood flow velocity measured by phase contrast MRI (P = 0.0008), and between Cartesian and radial acquisitions (P < 0.0001). Altered hemodynamics were observed at the lesion site of the arteriovenous malformation patient.

Conclusion

A robust analytical solution was proposed for quantifying aBF. This model‐free method is robust to noise, and its clinical value in the diagnosis of cerebrovascular disorders awaits further evaluation.
Foot‐march: Large‐scale mobilization for a public cause or a tool for fanning political ambition
Authors: Agarwalla Astha , Gupta Ishu , Sarin Ankur
Published: March 2019

We present the case of an awareness campaign, strategically crafted by a local student political leader, based on a national level policy for urban poor and marginalized, in the city of Ahmedabad in India. The campaign, designed in the form of a foot‐march, was aimed at mobilizing the urban poor, but with a clear ambition of gaining visibility for political mileage. This study reinforces that the mediation role taken up by local leaders transcends the traditional policymaking, in democracies with blurred boundaries between the state and citizens. Further, in local governance structures, with weak participatory spaces for the poor, foot‐marches have the potential to become an extended invited participatory space.
The effects of fantastical television content on Chinese preschoolers’ executive function
Authors: Jiang Ying , Fu Rui , Xing Shufen
Published: March 2019

Literature has indicated the mixed impact of television content on the executive function (EF) of preschoolers. This study investigated the short‐term impact of TV fantastical events on children's EF performance and whether these impacts were different between boys and girls. This study included 143 preschoolers (Mage = 5.88 years, SDage = 0.32 years) and their parents. Participating children were randomly assigned to three groups to watch cartoons of high‐fantasy, mid‐fantasy, and low‐fantasy, and then requested to perform on a series of EF tasks. The results revealed the nonlinear pattern for the effects of fantasy on inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility. Specifically, children in the mid‐fantasy group did worst on inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility and no significant group differences were found in working memory. However, no conclusive evidence existed to prove the moderating role of gender on the relationship between fantastical events and EF. Finally, the implications of the findings and future directions are discussed.
Interventions for the treatment of cancer‐related traumatic stress symptoms: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Dimitrov Lilia , Moschopoulou Elisavet , Korszun Ania
Published: March 2019

Objective

Cancer has been reported to trigger symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a substantial proportion of individuals. Despite the significant burden associated with these symptoms, there are as yet no therapeutic guidelines. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions for cancer‐related post‐traumatic stress in order to provide an evidence base for developing appropriate clinical practice.

Methods

Databases searched until April 2018 included Psych INFO, EMBASE, Medline, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). No restrictions to study design were applied. Participants aged 18 years or older who received their cancer diagnosis in adulthood and had symptoms of cancer‐related PTSD were included. Because of significant clinical heterogeneity, a meta‐analysis was not performed.

Results

Of 508 unique titles, eight studies met study inclusion criteria: five randomised controlled trials (RCTs), one before‐and‐after study, one case series, and one case study. Interventions were predominately psychological and were administered to patients with a range of cancer types. Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing and cognitive behavioural therapy‐based interventions were associated with reduced symptomatology; however, overall the methodological quality of studies had limitations.

Conclusions

At present, there is only weak evidence available for the effectiveness of psychological interventions in reducing symptoms of cancer‐related PTSD. The majority of interventions were administered to all cancer patients regardless of whether they showed pretreatment levels of post‐traumatic stress. Future studies would be better targeted towards patients with a diagnosis of cancer and who have significant levels of cancer‐related post‐traumatic symptoms. Higher quality trials are also needed before treatment recommendations can be made.
A Scalable Numerical Approach to the Solution of the Dyson Equation for the Non‐Equilibrium Single‐Particle Green's Function
Authors: Talarico Natale Walter , Maniscalco Sabrina , Lo Gullo Nicolino
Published: March 2019

A numerical method to solve the set of Dyson‐like equations in the framework of non‐equilibrium Green's functions is presented. The technique is based on the self‐consistent solution of the Dyson equations for the interacting single‐particle Green's function once a choice for the self‐energy, functional of the single‐particle Green's function itself, is made. The authors briefly review the theory of the non‐equilibrium Green's functions in order to highlight the main point useful in discussing the proposed technique. Then, the numerical implementationis presented and discussed, which is based on the distribution of the Keldysh components of the Green's function and the self‐energy on a grid of processes. It is discussed how the structure of the considered self‐energy approximations influences the distribution of the matrices in order to minimize the communication time among processes and which should be considered in the case of other approximations. The authors give an example of the application of this technique to the case of quenches in ultracold gases and to the single impurity Anderson model, also discussing the convergence and the stability features of the approach.
Neuroprotective effect of salidroside against central nervous system inflammation‐induced cognitive deficits: A pivotal role of sirtuin 1‐dependent Nrf‐2/HO‐1/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Xu Ning , Huang Fang , Jian Chongdong , Qin Lina , Lu Fang , Wang Yimei , Zhang Zhao , Zhang Qian
Published: March 2019

Central nervous system (CNS) inflammation occurs in cognitive dysfunctions, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and salidroside in CNS inflammation‐induced cognitive deficits model. In vivo, CNS inflammation was initiated by a single intracerebroventricular injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The levels of inflammatory cytokines and the capability of free radial scavenging were determined after the LPS challenge. In vivo, salidroside and nicotinamide, a SIRT1 inhibitor, were used in PC12 cell. Of note, with the treatment of salidroside, LPS‐induced learning and memory impairments were effectively improved. Salidroside also remarkably inhibited the inflammatory cytokines, up‐regulated the concentration of superoxide dismutase and inhibited the vitalities of malondialdehyde in serum, hippocampus, and cell supernatant. Besides, the expression of Sirt1, Nrf‐2, HO‐1, Bax, Bcl‐2, caspase‐9, and caspase‐3 and the phosphorylation of AMPK, NF‐κBp65, and IκBα were increased accompanying with the LPS‐induced cognitive impairments, which were significantly suppressed by salidroside treatment. In PC12 cell model, nicotinamide significantly abrogated the beneficial effects of salidroside, as indicated by the antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptosis signaling. Together, our results showed that salidroside may be a novel therapy drug in neurodegenerative diseases, and the protective effect was involved in SIRT1‐dependent Nrf‐2/HO‐1/NF‐κB pathway.
Suicidal and homicidal ideation associated with ziconotide
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: March 2019

Ziconotide is an atypical analgesic approved for pharmacological treatment of severe chronic pain refractory to other modalities. It is delivered via an intrathecal pump for infusion into the cerebrospinal fluid. However, it has been associated with severe psychiatric and neurological adverse effects, and is contraindicated in patients with a history of psychosis.
A spatially explicit and temporally highly resolved analysis of variations in fog occurrence over Europe
Authors: Egli Sebastian , Thies Boris , Bendix Jörg
Published: March 2019

Fog plays a major role in many ecological aspects and it influences human life in various ways. In this study, a temporally highly resolved and spatially explicit analysis of variations in fog occurrence was conducted for Europe and links to general weather conditions were investigated. To this end, a high‐resolution fog product based on Meteosat Second Generation data was developed. Characteristic fog distributions were identified by applying a Self Organizing Map approach to the dataset. It was found that the resulting fog patterns are primarily determined by terrain characteristics. Simultaneous occurrences between these patterns and the predominant general weather situations were analyzed. The results show that the general weather situations can be categorized into three main groups, each responsible for the formation of a different group of fog patterns. Additionally, distinct regional differences could be identified in the diurnal and annual fog frequency cycles and the derived region‐specific frequency variations were used to draw conclusions about the fog types prevailing in these regions.
Robotic fenestration of massive liver cysts using EndoWrist technology
Authors: Tsirlis Theodoros , Thakkar Rohan , Sen Gourab , Logue Jennifer , Robinson Stuart , French Jeremy Joules , White Steven Alan
Published: March 2019

Background

We present the short‐term outcomes of robotic fenestration of symptomatic liver cysts using the EndoWrist One Vessel Sealer.

Methods

Data from patients who underwent robotic deroofing were collected and analysed retrospectively.

Results

A total of 17 patients were treated. Mean cyst size was 14 cm (median 15 cm, range 6.3‐24). Seven cysts were in posterosuperior or central segments. There were no mortalities or conversions. Blood loss was minimal in all but one case of 200 ml. Mean operating time was 174 minutes (median 170 min, range 97‐335). Mean hospital stay was 2.5 days (median 2 days, range 1‐10). One patient developed a bile leak requiring ERCP. There are no recurrences with a median follow‐up of 19 months.

Conclusion

Robotic fenestration can be safely performed and offers distinct advantages over the laparoscopic approach in the treatment of posterosuperior and perihilar cysts at the expense of longer operating times and increased cost.
Adsorption of Bovine Hemoglobin by Sulfonated Polystyrene Nanospheres
Authors: Ge Moyan , Shen Yi , Chen Weiming , Peng Yaotian , Pan Ziyan
Published: March 2019

In this work, the authors attempted to present a detailed study on the adsorption of bovine hemoglobin (BHB) by sulfonated polystyrene nanospheres (SPS NSs). The adsorption characteristics including adsorption isotherms, kinetics and thermodynamics were studied in detail. The adsorption isotherms were better fitted by the Langmuir model, leading to a remarkable adsorption capacity of 2831.4 mg g−1. Such an adsorption capacity is among the highest values reported in the literature. The adsorption kinetics was analyzed by the pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order and intra‐particle diffusion equations. The thermodynamic parameters including binding site, binding affinity, and changes of enthalpy, entropy and Gibbs free energy were determined by isothermal titration calorimetry measurements. The electrostatic interaction of BHB and SPS NSs was identified as the major adsorption mechanism. The effects of solution pH, temperature and competitive metal ions in the adsorption process were studied. Based on the Arrhenius equation, the activation energy of the adsorption process was determined to be 2.34 kJ mol−1.
Nonsacrificial Self‐Template Synthesis of Colloidal Magnetic Yolk–Shell Mesoporous Organosilicas for Efficient Oil/Water Interface Catalysis
Authors: Yu Lei , Pan Panpan , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yi , Wan Li , Cheng Xiaowei , Deng Yonghui
Published: March 2019

Using interfacial reaction systems for biphasic catalytic reactions is attracting more and more attention due to their simple reaction process and low environmental pollution. Yolk–shell structured materials have broad applications in biomedicine, catalysis, and environmental remediation owing to their open channels and large space for guest molecules. Conventional methods to obtain yolk–shell mesoporous materials rely on costly and complex hard‐template strategies. In this study, a mild and convenient nonsacrificial self‐template strategy is developed to construct yolk–shell magnetic periodic mesoporous organosilica (YS‐mPMO) particles by using the unique swelling–deswelling property of low‐crosslinking density resorcinol formaldehyde (RF). The obtained YS‐mPMO microspheres possess an amphiphilic outer shell, high surface area (393 m2 g−1), uniform mesopores (2.58 nm), a tunable middle hollow space (50–156 nm), and high superparamagnetism (34.4–37.1 emu g−1). By tuning the synthesis conditions, heterojunction structured yolk–shell Fe3O4@RF@void@PMO particles with different morphologies can be produced. Owing to the amphipathy of PMO framworks, the YS‐mPMO particles show great emulsion stabilization ability and recyclability under a magnetic field. YS‐mPMO microspheres with immobilized Au nanoparticles (≈3 nm) act as both solid emulsifier for dispersing styrene (St) in water and interface catalysts for selective conversion of St into styrene oxide with a high selectivity of 86%, and yields of over 97%.
Measuring Heterogeneous Price Effects for Home Acquisition Programs in At‐Risk Regions
Authors: Frimpong Eugene , Kruse Jamie , Howard Gregory , Davidson Rachel , Trainor Joseph , Nozick Linda
Published: March 2019

Any entity offering flood insurance, whether it is private or government‐administered such as the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), faces the challenge of solvency. This is especially true for the NFIP, where homeowner affordability criteria limit the opportunity to charge fully risk‐based premiums. One solution is to remove the highest flood risk properties from the insurer's book of business. Acquisition (buyout) of flood‐prone structures is a potentially permanent solution that eliminates the highest risk properties while providing homeowners with financial assistance to relocate in a less risky location. To encourage participation, homeowners are offered a preflood fair market value of their damaged (or at risk of damage) structures. Although many factors have been shown to affect a homeowner's decision to accept an acquisition offer, very little research has been devoted to the influence of price or monetary incentive offered on homeowners' willingness to participate in acquisition programs. We estimate a pooled probit model and employ a bootstrap methodology to determine the effects of hypothetical home price offers on homeowners' acquisition decisions. We do so while controlling for environmental factors, property characteristics, and homeowner sociodemographic characteristics. Results show that price indeed has a positive effect on likelihood of accepting an acquisition contract. Furthermore, estimated homeowner supply curves differ significantly based on the damage status of the acquisition offer, as well as homeowner and property characteristics.
A review of past and projected changes in Australia's rainfall
Authors: Dey Raktima , Lewis Sophie C. , Arblaster Julie M. , Abram Nerilie J.
Published: March 2019

There has been much attention given to the spatial and temporal characteristics of changes in mean and extreme rainfall over Australia during the past century. As Australia is the second driest continent on Earth, reliable projections around the trends and variability in future rainfall are crucial for policymakers and water resource management. This article comprehensively reviews the current published literature on trends in Australia's rainfall from pre‐instrumental and instrumental records, the climatic drivers of Australia's rainfall variability, attribution of the long‐term trends, extreme rainfall attribution methods with particular reference to a recent case study (2010–2012 east Australia rainfall event) and projected changes of mean and extreme rainfall over Australia during the 21st century. Notable trends in the observational record of rainfall in Australia are a decrease in mean rainfall in southwest and southeast Australia and an increase in northwest Australia since 1950. The general consensus of research into Australia's future rainfall is that mean rainfall will continue to decrease in southwest Australia in a warming world, while changes over northern and eastern Australia remain uncertain. There are still significant knowledge gaps around the causes of observed trends in rainfall both in the mean and extremes, the ability of climate models to accurately represent rainfall in the Australian region and future rainfall projections. These gaps are identified, and avenues for future research directions are proposed.

This article is categorized under:

Paleoclimates and Current Trends > Modern Climate Change
To Coordinate or not to Coordinate: The Special Role of Chalcogen Ether Functionalities in the Design of Twofold Functionalized Cyclopentadienyl Ligands [Cp,O,Ch (Ch = S, Se)]
Authors: Fischer Malte , Schmidtmann Marc , Beckhaus Ruediger
Published: March 2019

The solvent‐ and catalyst free synthesis of two β‐thio ketones L1a and L1b is reported. L1a, L1b, and a β‐seleno ketone L1c were successfully employed as ligand precursors in the synthesis of a novel series of cationic titanium complexes 4a–4c via a well‐established reaction sequence: insertion of the carbonyl functional group into the polarized Ti–Cq,exo bond of the monopentafulvene complex Cp*Ti(Cl)(π‐η5:σ–η1‐C5H4=CR2) (1) (CR2 = adamantylidene), subsequent methylation, and final activation with B(C6F5)3. The cationic titanium complexes 4a–4c bear twofold functionalized cyclopentadienyl [Cp,O,Ch (Ch = S, Se)] ligand frameworks built directly in the coordination sphere of the metal, in which the chalcogen ether functionalities do not coordinate to the central metal atoms as demonstrated by NMR experiments. Consequently, Cp,O σ,π chelating ligand systems are formed with free coordination sites at the central titanium atoms and pendant chalcogen ether moieties.
Solving the strong CP problem with non-conventional CP
Authors: Cherchiglia A. L. , Nishi C. C.
Published: March 2019

Abstract

A very simple model is presented where all CP violation in Nature is spontaneous in origin. The CKM phase is generated unsuppressed and the strong CP problem is solved with only moderately small couplings between the SM and the CP violation sector or mediator sector because corrections to

$$ \overline{\theta} $$

θ
¯

arise only at two loops. The latter feature follows from an underlying unconventional CP symmetry of order 4 imposed in the sectors beyond the SM composed of only two vector-like quarks of charge −1/3 and one complex scalar singlet. No additional symmetry is necessary to implement the Nelson-Barr mechanism.
Outcomes of young people who reach the transition boundary of child and adolescent mental health services: a systematic review
Authors: Appleton Rebecca , Connell Catriona , Fairclough Emma , Tuomainen Helena , Singh Swaran P.
Published: March 2019

When young people reach the upper age limit of child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS), care should be transferred to an adult mental health service (AMHS) if they require ongoing support. However, many young people experience a significant disruption of their care during this transition, whilst others may fail to transition at all. Currently, there is no systematic appraisal of the international evidence regarding the outcomes of young people after transition. A systematic review was conducted which aimed to synthesise and review the existing research regarding outcomes after transition. We searched six databases from their inception until December 2017 for research relating to either the mental health or service use outcomes of young people after reaching their CAMHS age boundary. Results were synthesised narratively. The initial searches identified 18,287 papers, of which 213 were screened on full text. 13 papers were included in the review, representing 10 cohorts of young people who crossed the transition age boundary. No studies contained extractable data on mental health outcomes following transition, and therefore, this review focused only on service use outcomes. Results showed a quarter of young people transitioned to AMHS, with the other young people experiencing varied outcomes after leaving CAMHS and multiple transitions during this time. This review provides evidence for the varying service use outcomes of young people after reaching the upper age limit of CAMHS. However, longitudinal research into long-term outcomes is lacking, in addition to research regarding the mental health and functioning outcomes of young people following transition.

Protocol registration The protocol for this systematic review has been registered with PROSPERO, ID number CRD42018085916.
Pragmatism and the Origins of the Policy Sciences
Authors: Dunn William N.
Published: March 2019

This Element presents an examination of the origins of the policy sciences in the School of Pragmatism at the University of Chicago in the period 1915–38. Harold D. Lasswell, the principal creator of the policy sciences, based much of his work on the perspectives of public policy of John Dewey and other pragmatists at Chicago. Characteristics of the policy sciences include orientations that are normative, policy-relevant, contextual, and multi-disciplinary. These orientations originate in pragmatist principles of the unity of knowledge and action and functionalist explanations of action by reference to values. These principles are central to the future development of the policy sciences.
Study of non-isothermal liquid evaporation in synthetic micro-pore structures with hybrid lattice Boltzmann model
Authors: Qin Feifei , Del Carro Luca , Mazloomi Moqaddam Ali , Kang Qinjun , Brunschwiler Thomas , Derome Dominique , Carmeliet Jan
Published: March 2019

Non-isothermal liquid evaporation in micro-pore structures is studied experimentally and numerically using the lattice Boltzmann method. A hybrid thermal entropic multiple-relaxation-time multiphase lattice Boltzmann model (T-EMRT-MP LBM) is implemented and validated with experiments of droplet evaporation on a heated hydrophobic substrate. Then liquid evaporation is investigated in two specific pore structures, i.e. spiral-shaped and gradient-shaped micro-pillar cavities, referred to as SMS and GMS, respectively. In SMS, the liquid receding front follows the spiral pattern; while in GMS, the receding front moves layer by layer from the pillar rows with large pitch to the rows with small one. Both simulations agree well with experiments. Moreover, evaporative cooling effects in liquid and vapour are observed and explained with simulation results. Quantitatively, in both SMS and GMS, the change of liquid mass with time coincides with experimental measurements. The evaporation rate generally decreases slightly with time mainly because of the reduction of liquid–vapour interface. Isolated liquid films in SMS increase the evaporation rate temporarily resulting in local peaks in evaporation rate. Reynolds and capillary numbers show that the liquid internal flow is laminar and that the capillary forces are dominant resulting in menisci pinned to the pillars. Similar Péclet number is found in simulations and experiments, indicating a diffusive type of heat, liquid and vapour transport. Our numerical and experimental studies indicate a method for controlling liquid evaporation paths in micro-pore structures and maintaining high evaporation rate by specific geometry designs.
Effects of diethylcarbamazine and ivermectin treatment onBrugia malayigene expression in infected gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus)
Authors: Maclean Mary J. , Lorenz W. Walter , Dzimianski Michael T. , Anna Christopher , Moorhead Andrew R. , Reaves Barbara J. , Wolstenholme Adrian J.
Published: March 2019

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) threatens nearly 20% of the world's population and has handicapped one-third of the 120 million people currently infected. Current control and elimination programs for LF rely on mass drug administration of albendazole plus diethylcarbamazine (DEC) or ivermectin. Only the mechanism of action of albendazole is well understood. To gain a better insight into antifilarial drug actionin vivo, we treated gerbils harbouring patentBrugia malayiinfections with 6 mg kg−1DEC, 0.15 mg kg−1ivermectin or 1 mg kg−1albendazole. Treatments had no effect on the numbers of worms present in the peritoneal cavity of treated animals, so effects on gene expression were a direct result of the drug and not complicated by dying parasites. Adults and microfilariae were collected 1 and 7 days post-treatment and RNA isolated for transcriptomic analysis. The experiment was repeated three times. Ivermectin treatment produced the most differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 113. DEC treatment yielded 61 DEGs. Albendazole treatment resulted in little change in gene expression, with only 6 genes affected. In total, nearly 200 DEGs were identified with little overlap between treatment groups, suggesting that these drugs may interfere in different ways with processes important for parasite survival, development, and reproduction.