bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salidroside promotes rat spinal cord injury recovery by inhibiting inflammatory cytokine expression and NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathways
Authors: Su Yiji , Zong Shaohui , Wei Chengming , Song Fangming , Feng Haotian , Qin An , Lian Zhen , Fu Fangsheng , Shao Siyuan , Fang Fang , Wu Tailai , Xu Jiake , Liu Qian , Zhao Jinmin
Published: January 2019

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a public health problem in the world. The SCI usually triggers an excessive inflammatory response that brings about a secondary tissue wreck leading to further cellular and organ dysfunction. Hence, there is great potential of reducing inflammation for therapeutic strategies of SCI. In this study, we aim to investigate if Salidroside (SAD) exerts an anti‐inflammatory effect and promotes recovery of motor function on SCI through suppressing nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) and the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. In vitro, real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to examine the inhibitory effect of SAD on the expression and release of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in astrocytes. In addition, SAD was found to inhibit NF‐κB, p38 and extracellular‐regulated protein kinases (ERK) signaling pathways by western blot analysis. Further, in vivo study showed that SAD was able to improve hind limb motor function and reduce tissue damage accompanied by the suppressed expression of inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. Overall, SAD could reduce the inflammatory response and promote motor function recovery in rats after SCI by inhibiting NF‐κB, p38, and ERK signaling pathways.
Association between indel polymorphism (rs145204276) in the promoter region of lncRNA GAS5 and the risk of febrile convulsion
Authors: Xiang Wenna , Li Zhishu , Lin Zongze , You Keyou , Pan Minli , Zheng Ge
Published: January 2019

Background

This study aimed to explore the regulatory relationship between growth arrest special 5 (GAS5) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) implicated in the development of febrile seizure (FS).

Method

The presence of FS and the genotype of GAS5 were used as two different indicators to divide the 50 newborn babies, recruited in this study, into different groups. The potential regulatory relationship among GAS5, miR‐21, and IL‐1β was identified by measuring their expression using quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry assays among different sample groups. Computational analyses and luciferase assays were also conducted to verify the interaction between GAS5, miR‐21, and IL‐1β.

Result

GAS5 and IL‐1β expression was upregulated in cells collected from FS patients or genotyped as INS/DEL and DEL/DEL, whereas the expression of miR‐21 was decreased in above samples, indicating a negative relationship between miR‐21 and GAS5/IL‐1β. Results of the computational analysis showed that miR‐21 directly bound to and increased the expression of GAS5, whereas the expression of IL‐1β was suppressed by miR‐21. In the presence of GAS5, the expression of miR‐21 was lowered, whereas the expression of IL‐1β was increased.

Conclusion

The results obtained in this study supported the conclusion that GAS5 negatively regulated the expression of miR‐21, which in turn negatively regulated the expression IL‐1β. Therefore, the overexpression of GAS5 could decrease the magnitude of FS.
Expression profile of circular RNA in rat intimal hyperplasia and target gene prediction
Authors: Li Tao , Rong Zhi‐Hua , Chang Neng‐Bin , Liu Xing , Xu Jia‐Ying , Liu Dong , Shi Cong‐Cong , Zhang Wen‐Yi , Jiang Rui , Jiang Jun
Published: January 2019

Intimal hyperplasia is an important cause of stenosis or occlusion after vascular injury. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are known to be related to various cardiovascular diseases. However, the expression profile of circRNAs in the neointima has not been reported in detail. In this study, we established a rat common carotid artery (CCA) injury model. A microarray detection showed significant differences in circRNA expression between the normal and injured CCA. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction verified the differences. We used bioinformatics to predict the microRNAs that possibly interact with the differentially expressed (DE) circRNAs and linked the potential functions of circRNAs to the target genes of the microRNAs. We believe that the DE circRNA in neointima may affect the differentiation, proliferation, and migration of vascular cells through a variety of target genes. The intervention or utilization of certain circRNAs should be a new method for preventing and treating intimal hyperplasia.
Flawed methods and inappropriate conclusions for health policy on overweight and obesity: the Global BMI Mortality Collaboration meta‐analysis
Authors: Flegal Katherine M. , Ioannidis John P.A. , Doehner Wolfram
Published: January 2019

Guideline recommendations and health policy decisions rely on evidence from clinical and epidemiological studies. Adequate methodology and appropriate conclusions are essential to support healthcare and health policy decisions. An analysis of body mass index and mortality by the Global BMI Mortality Collaboration (GBMC) concluded that the association of excess body weight with higher mortality was similar worldwide and that overweight and obesity should be combated everywhere. To reach this conclusion, the GBMC used highly selected data, rather than a systematic approach. The GBMC initially chose individual participant data from 239 prospective studies with approximately 10.6 million participants. The GBMC then excluded over 60% of data and over 75% of fatal events by eliminating all cases with any reported disease at baseline or smoking history and all events within the first 5 years of follow‐up. After applying these restrictions, the association of overweight with lower mortality was reversed and the association of obesity with higher mortality was increased. Given the major flaws in the selection process, in the adequacy of the data, in the data analysis, and in the interpretation, the GBMC conclusions should be viewed sceptically as a guide to action, either for clinical decisions or for public health in general. The flawed conclusion that overweight is uniformly associated with substantially increased risk of death and thus should be combated in any circumstances may lead not only to unjustified treatment efforts and potential harm in a wide range of clinical conditions but also to a tremendous waste of resources.
Comparing rapid assessments of delay discounting with real and hypothetical rewards in children
Authors: Miller Jonathan R.
Published: January 2019

Recent advances in assessment methodology have resulted in a highly efficient procedure for obtaining delay discounting rates for adults: a 5‐trial adjusting delay task (ADT‐5) examining intertemporal choice for hypothetical rewards. The low participant burden of this task makes it potentially useful for children, with whom delay discounting research is relatively limited. However, it is unknown whether results from this task match choice for real rewards. The present study assessed delay discounting for real and hypothetical monetary rewards using a modified ADT‐5 with 9 children admitted to a psychiatric day treatment program. Participants completed up to 3 tasks with each reward type in alternating order. No difference in discounting rate, via log(k), was observed between the first task of each reward type. This finding was replicated across subsequent tasks for the subset of participants (n = 6) who completed all 6 tasks. However, delay discounting of real and hypothetical rewards was not found to be statistically equivalent. These results suggest that a modified ADT‐5 using hypothetical rewards may be a viable option for assessing delay discounting in children with psychiatric diagnoses, but additional research is needed to explicitly examine whether hypothetical and real rewards are discounted equivalently in this population.
On the current status of the evolutionary theory of behavior dynamics
Authors: McDowell J. J
Published: January 2019

The evolutionary theory of behavior dynamics is a complexity theory that instantiates the Darwinian principles of selection, reproduction, and mutation in a genetic algorithm. The algorithm is used to animate artificial organisms that behave continuously in time and can be placed in any experimental environment. The present paper is an update on the status of the theory. It includes a summary of the evidence supporting the theory, a list of the theory's untested predictions, and a discussion of how the algorithmic operations of the theory may correspond to material reality. Based on the evidence reviewed here, the evolutionary theory appears to be a strong candidate for a comprehensive theory of adaptive behavior.
“In the United States, we say, ‘No breastfeeding,’ but that is no longer realistic”: provider perspectives towards infant feeding among women living with HIV in the United States
Authors: Tuthill Emily L , Tomori Cecilia , Van Natta Meredith , Coleman Jenell S
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Currently, the United States (U.S.) recommends that infants born to women living with HIV (WLHIV) be fed formula, whereas many low‐resource settings follow the World Health Organization's recommendation to exclusively breastfeed with ongoing antiretroviral therapy. Evidence on infant feeding among WLHIV in high‐resource countries suggest that these contrasting recommendations create challenges for providers and patients. Our study used multiple methods to understand providers’ infant feeding perspectives on caring for their pregnant and post‐partum WLHIV in the U.S.

Methods

We sent a survey (n = 93) to providers across the U.S. who have cared for WLHIV. A subset of survey participants opted into a follow‐up qualitative interview (n = 21). These methods allowed us to capture a broad understanding of provider attitudes via the survey and more nuanced qualitative interviews. The study was completed prior to an updated breastfeeding section of the U.S. Perinatal Guidelines.

Results

The majority of providers (66.7%) discussed infant feeding intent with their patients using open‐ended questions. Many also discussed alternative feeding methods (37.6%) and disclosure avoidance strategies (34.4%). Over 75% (95% confidence interval (CI): 65.1 to 84.2) of participants reported that a WLHIV asked if she could breastfeed her child, and 29% (95% CI 20 to 40.3) reported caring for a patient who breastfed despite recommendations against breastfeeding. Providers reported that their patients’ primary concern was stigma associated with not breastfeeding (58%), while providers were primarily concerned about medication adherence during breastfeeding (70%). Through qualitative analysis, four overarching categories emerged that reflect providers’ sentiments, including (1) U.S. guidelines inadequately addressing WLHIV's desire to breastfeed; (2) negotiating patient autonomy amidst complex feeding situations; (3) harm reduction approaches to supporting WLHIV in breastfeeding; and (4) providers anticipating multilayered patient stigmatization.

Conclusions

The majority of provider respondents cared for a WLHIV who desired to breastfeed, and a third had WLHIV who breastfed despite recommendations against it. Providers found that the status of U.S. guidelines and their incongruity with WHO guidelines left them without adequate resources to support WLHIV's infant feeding decisions. Our findings provide important insight to inform professional associations’ discussions about public health policy as they consider future directions for infant feeding guidelines among WLHIV.
Beyond the antibody: B cells as a target for bacterial infection
Authors: García-Gil Abraham , Lopez-Bailon Luis Uriel , Ortiz-Navarrete Vianney
Published: January 2019

It is well established that B cells play an important role during infections beyond antibody production. B cells produce cytokines and are APCs for T cells. Recently, it has become clear that several pathogenic bacterial genera, such as Salmonella, Brucella, Mycobacterium, Listeria, Francisella, Moraxella, and Helicobacter, have evolved mechanisms such as micropinocytosis induction, inflammasome down-regulation, inhibitory molecule expression, apoptosis induction, and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion to manipulate B cell functions influencing immune responses. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of B cells as targets of bacterial infection and the mechanisms by which B cells become a niche for bacterial survival and replication away from extracellular immune responses such as complement and antibodies.
Direct Metal‐Free Preparation of Functionalizable Polylactic Acid‐Ethisterone Conjugates in a One‐Pot Approach
Authors: Luo Shi‐He , Wu Yan‐Cheng , Cao Liang , Lin Jian‐Yun , Gao Jian , Chen Shui‐Xia , Wang Zhao‐Yang
Published: January 2019

A series of polylactic acid (PLA) conjugates (PLA‐ES) are synthesized via direct melt polycondensation (DMP) of lactic acid (LA) with ethisterone (ES) in the presence of 0.3 wt% toluenesulfonic acid at 160 °C for 6 h. The drug content of PLA conjugates can be simply adjustable. Further functionalization via Click chemistry is also achieved to extend the biomedicine application of biopolymer based drug delivery.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid Reduces Adiposity, Glucose Intolerance and Increases Oxygen Consumption Independently of Uncoupling Protein 1
Authors: Pahlavani Mandana , Ramalingam Latha , Miller Emily K. , Scoggin Shane , Menikdiwela Kalhara R. , Kalupahana Nishan S. , Festuccia William T. , Moustaid‐Moussa Naima
Published: January 2019

Scope

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) dissipates energy through uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) and has been proposed as an anti‐obesity target. It was reported previously that a high‐fat (HF) diet enriched in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) significantly increased UCP1 and other thermogenic markers in BAT. It is hypothesized that these effects are mediated through UCP1‐dependent regulation.

Methods and results

Wild‐type (WT) and UCP1 knockout (KO) B6 male mice were housed at thermoneutrality and fed a HF diet, without or with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)‐enriched fish oil. HF‐fed KO mice were heavier and had higher BAT lipid content than other groups. Protective effects of EPA in WT, previously observed at 22 °C (reduced adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, and increased UCP1), disappeared at thermoneutrality. Mitochondrial proteins, cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COX I), COX I, II, and IV were reduced in the KO mice compared to WT. Unexpectedly, EPA attenuated weight and fat mass gain and improved glucose tolerance in the KO mice. Finally, EPA increased BAT peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC1α) protein and gene expression, and whole‐body oxygen consumption in KO mice, consistent with increased mitochondria DNA (mtDNA)/nuclear DNA (nucDNA) ratio.

Conclusions

EPA rescued the weight gain and glucose intolerance in UCP1 KO mice at thermoneutrality, independent of UCP1; these effects may be mediated in part via increased oxygen consumption and BAT PGC1α.
Coupling between cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood volume: Contributions of different vascular compartments
Authors: Wesolowski Roman , Blockley Nicholas P. , Driver Ian D. , Francis Susan T. , Gowland Penny A.
Published: January 2019

A better understanding of the coupling between changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral blood volume (CBV) is vital for furthering our understanding of the BOLD response. The aim of this study was to measure CBF‐CBV coupling in different vascular compartments during neural activation. Three haemodynamic parameters were measured during a visual stimulus. Look‐Locker flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery was used to measure changes in CBF and arterial CBV (CBVa) using sequence parameters optimized for each contrast. Changes in total CBV (CBVtot) were measured using a gadolinium‐based contrast agent technique. Haemodynamic changes were extracted from a region of interest based on voxels that were activated in the CBF experiments. The CBF‐CBVtot coupling constant αtot was measured as 0.16 ± 0.14 and the CBF‐CBVa coupling constant αa was measured as 0.65 ± 0.24. Using a two‐compartment model of the vasculature (arterial and venous), the change in venous CBV (CBVv) was predicted for an assumed value of baseline arterial and venous blood volume. These results will enhance the accuracy and reliability of applications that rely on models of the BOLD response, such as calibrated BOLD.
The psychosocial self‐efficacy in adolescents with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Survonen Anne , Salanterä Sanna , Näntö‐Salonen Kirsti , Sigurdardottir Arun K. , Suhonen Riitta
Published: January 2019

Aim

To analyse psychosocial self‐efficacy in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, evaluate associations between self‐efficacy and metabolic control and background variables and determine psychometric properties of the Finnish Diabetes Empowerment Scale (Fin‐DES‐28).

Design

A descriptive correlational survey.

Methods

The data were collected with the Finnish Diabetes Empowerment Scale from 13–16‐year‐old adolescents with type 1 diabetes (N = 189, 34%) in one university hospital district area in 2014.

Results

The level of psychosocial self‐efficacy was quite good. The highest scores were in managing the psychosocial aspects of diabetes, followed by assessing dissatisfaction and readiness to change and setting and achieving diabetes goals. The self‐efficacy did not correlate with metabolic control or background variables. A positive association was found between self‐efficacy and understanding of diabetes and its treatment, adjustment of diabetes to life and the relationship with the doctor and the nurse. The internal consistency of the Finnish Diabetes Empowerment Scale was adequate. The low response rate limits generalization.
Investigation on surface properties of superhydrophobic nanocomposites based on polyvinyl chloride and correlation with cell adhesion behavior
Authors: Naeemabadi Niloofar , Seyfi Javad , Hejazi Ehsan , Hejazi Iman , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: January 2019

The main aim was to study the roles of structural homogeneity and superhydrophobicity on the adhesion of SW colon cancer cells on the surface of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) nanocomposites. Concurrent use of a proper nonsolvent (ethanol) and silica nanoparticles resulted in superhydrophobic behavior and also different surface structures. The effect of added‐ethanol content on the surface properties of PVC nanocomposites was also studied. The synergetic combination of silica and ethanol has led to the formation of a porous surface layer resulting in a considerable boost in the hydrophobic behavior. The scanning electron microscopy, roughness, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis results were all in total agreement indicating the substantial change in surface morphology, topography, and composition once the ethanol content was increased to 50 vol.%. The surface structure was notably changed by the addition of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) nanoparticles. It was found that the induced inhomogeneity as a result of POSS addition had an adverse effect on the surface properties. In conclusion, superhydrophobicity could be regarded as a prerequisite for achieving cell‐repellent behavior, but it cannot guarantee a cell repellent surface especially if the surface layer possesses structural inhomogeneity.
The use of touch devices for enhancing academic achievement: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Petersen‐Brown Shawna M. , Henze Erin E. C. , Klingbeil David A. , Reynolds Jennifer L. , Weber Rachel C. , Codding Robin S.
Published: January 2019

Touch devices such as tablets and smartphones are widely adopted in educational settings and have many desirable features. However, research supporting the use of touch devices to improve academic achievement is emergent and has not been evaluated through a meta‐analysis. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 65 group and single case design research studies, published 2010–2018, to evaluate the effects of touch device implementation on academic achievement. The overall mean effect sizes were moderate for group design and single case design studies. Participant, intervention, and study attributes were also evaluated to describe the research and how these attributes may moderate the results. Overall, results suggest that touch devices may be an effective tool for enhancing academic achievement. The need to conduct additional, rigorous research on the use of touch devices as well as implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Long‐term issues and supportive care needs of adolescent and young adult childhood brain tumour survivors and their caregivers: A systematic review
Authors: Nicklin Emma , Velikova Galina , Hulme Claire , Rodriguez Lopez Rocio , Glaser Adam , Kwok‐Williams Michelle , Boele Florien
Published: January 2019

Objective

Long‐term issues following diagnosis and treatment of a childhood brain tumour often become apparent as the survivor enters adolescence and young adulthood. Their caregivers may additionally face long‐term impacts on their emotional and psychological functioning. This review synthesised evidence on the issues and supportive care needs of adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of a brain tumour diagnosed in childhood and their caregivers.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched up until September 2017. All studies reporting on issues or needs of childhood brain tumour survivors (aged 14‐39) and their caregivers were included. Narrative synthesis methods were used to summarise, integrate, and interpret findings.

Results

Fifty‐six articles (49 studies) met the inclusion criteria. Social issues (ie, isolation and impaired daily functioning) were most commonly reported by survivors, followed by cognitive (ie, impaired memory and attention) and physical issues (ie, endocrine dysfunctions and fatigue). Survivors experienced poorer social functioning and sexual functioning and were less likely to be employed or have children, when compared with other AYA cancer survivors. Caregivers experienced reduced support as the survivor moved into young adulthood. Caregivers reported uncertainty, increased responsibilities, and problems maintaining their own self–well‐being and family relationships. Few studies reported on supportive care needs. Survivors expressed a need for better educational support and age‐specific psychosocial services.

Conclusions

Surviving a childhood brain tumour can be particularly challenging for AYA survivors and their caregivers. Robust structured research is needed to identify specific support needs of both survivors and their caregivers and how these can be optimally addressed.
Tracheostomy speaking valve modification in children: A standardized approach leads to widespread use
Authors: Greene Zelda M. , Davenport Jim , Fitzgerald Siobhan , Russell John D. , McNally Paul
Published: January 2019

Background

Tracheostomy is associated with negative effects on voice, speech, and feeding/swallowing. Speaking valves have beneficial effects in these areas but are often contra‐indicated in children with airway problems due to high transtracheal pressure (TTP). Valves are modified by drilling to reduce excessive TTP. We hypothesized that a standardized approach to assessment and valve modification by drilling improves valve tolerance and allows widespread successful use.

Methods

Following development of a standardized multidisciplinary protocol for patient selection, valve modification and valve prescription at our center, we retrospectively collected information from clinical notes relating to clinical indication and medical history of all children undergoing speaking valve assessment from February 2014 to June 2017. We designed a questionnaire which was delivered to the parents of children receiving both modified and standard valves enquiring about voice, feeding, communication, and suctioning.

Results

Data on 45 children were collected. Thirteen had normal TTP and were given standard valves and 32 had high TTP, all of whom had their valves modified resulting in good tolerance. 17 Children were on positive pressure ventilation at the time of placement. The survey response rate was 83%. Parents report a high degree of satisfaction with modified valves and report positive effects in terms of voice, speech, and feeding/swallowing similar to those reported for standard valves.

Conclusions

Speaking valves can be successfully and safely modified in children, providing valves to many patients previously deemed unsuitable. We report positive parental experiences of these modified valves in line with those reported with standard valves.
Nebulized gentamicin in combination with systemic antibiotics for eradicating early Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Van Stormbroek Ben , Zampoli Marco , Morrow Brenda M.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) infection in cystic fibrosis (CF) can be prevented with early eradication treatment. In resource‐constrained environments, low‐cost, off‐label nebulized antibiotics, including intravenous gentamicin solution, are often used for eradication therapy. This study aimed to describe the characteristics and clinical course of children with CF and early Pa infection, treated with a Pa eradication protocol combining inhaled gentamicin and systemic antibiotics.

Study Design

Retrospective descriptive study.

Patient‐subject selection

All children (0‐18 years) attending a CF clinic in South Africa, with early Pa infections between January 2005 and March 2015, who received nebulized gentamicin‐based Pa eradication treatment.

Methodology

Data were described and compared between those with successful versus unsuccessful eradication, using descriptive and inferential statistics appropriate to normality of distribution.

Results

One hundred and forty‐nine children were managed in the CF Clinic over the study period, of whom 44 (29.5%; 28 [63.6%] male) had early Pa infections treated with a gentamicin‐based eradication regimen. Thirty‐nine (88.6%) patients had successful Pa eradication at 12 months follow‐up; of which 28 (71.8%) had Pa reinfection at a median of 37.0 (21.0‐101.0) months after initial treatment. Six patients (13%) acquired chronic Pa infection during the median follow‐up period of 77 months. Older age was associated with Pa eradication failure and chronic Pa infection. There were no clinically significant adverse events associated with gentamicin inhalational therapy.

Conclusions

Nebulized gentamicin solution combined with systemic antibiotics appears to be safe and has comparable efficacy to other strategies in eradicating early Pa infections in children with CF.
Curcumin improves the effect of a reduced insulin dose on glycemic control and oxidative stress in streptozotocin‐diabetic rats
Authors: Gutierres Vânia Ortega , Assis Renata Pires , Arcaro Carlos Alberto , Oliveira Juliana Oriel , Lima Tayra Ferreira Oliveira , Beretta Ana Laura Remédio Zeni , Costa Paulo Inácio , Baviera Amanda Martins , Brunetti Iguatemy Lourenço
Published: January 2019

Insulin with natural antioxidants is emerging as a combination treatment for diabetes mellitus that attempts to exert effective glycemic control without adverse effects. The present study aimed to investigate the additive effects on metabolic disturbances, oxidative damage, and antioxidant defenses in streptozotocin‐diabetic rats treated with curcumin and a reduced insulin dose. The best results were obtained in the treatment of diabetic rats with 4‐U/day insulin; however, the glycemia levels in these rats were lower than those in normal rats, indicating a risk of hypoglycemia. Isolated treatments using curcumin or insulin in a reduced dose (1 U/day) decreased glycemia, dyslipidemia, and biomarkers of liver and kidney damage and increased the activity of hepatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase), however, only to a lesser extent than 4‐U/day insulin, without improvements in catalase activity or plasma lipid peroxidation. Decreases in glycemia, dyslipidemia, and tissue damage markers were more evident in the curcumin + 1‐U/day insulin treatment than those seen in isolated treatments. The activity of hepatic antioxidants, including catalase, was further increased, and biomarkers of oxidative damage were decreased. Curcumin with a reduced insulin dose appears to be a promising strategy for combating the complications associated with diabetes and oxidative stress.
Synthesis of MgTiO3 Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Bhagwat Ujwala O. , Wu Jerry J. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Anandan Sambandam
Published: January 2019

Magnesium titanate (MgTiO3) has been successfully synthesized via the sonochemical method by using TiO2 (P25) and Magnesium nitrate (MgNO3)2.6H2O as precursors without any additional phases such as MgTi2O5 and Mg2TiO4. The synthesized nanoparticles were well characterized by optical methods using UV‐Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) and Photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The morphology of MgTiO3 nanoparticles is irregular in shape with serious agglomerations were confirmed through SEM analysis. XRD confirms crystal structure and phase purity of MgTiO3 nanoparticles calcined at 700 °C for 2 hours. The calculated band gap energy of MgTiO3 nanoparticles has been found to be 3.05 eV. Using the prepared MgTiO3 nanoparticles, the photocatalytic activities were evaluated by following the degradation of Congo red dye under visible light. Moreover, the influence of various scavengers on the photocatalytic reaction were studied.
Synthesis of Pd Nanoparticles Supported on the Three‐Dimensional Mesostructured of Hardwood and its Application
Authors: Chao Man , Zhang Guowen , Li Zhongyu , Liu Lihuai , Yan Shuqin , Chen Ye , Shi Yanhui , Yan Xiao , Cao Changsheng
Published: January 2019

In this study, evenly distributed palladium (0) nanoparticles (about 6.6 nm) supported on the mesostructure of the hardwood (Pd NPs/wood) with the loading content of 3.5 wt% of palladium were synthesized via direct reduction of PdCl2 by lignin in the hardwood. The Pd NPs/wood was fully characterized by XRD, TGA, ICP, IR, SEM, XPS and TEM. The Pd NPs/wood shows a good catalytic activity for Sonogashira, Heck and Suzuki coupling reactions with aryl iodide and also shows good stability over the reaction process. The Pd NPs/wood could be easily recovered and can be recycled for at least five times without significantly loss of its activity. Furthermore, the long channels in the wood can be used as multiple micro‐reaction vessels, allowing that the Pd‐catalyzed continuous flow reactions occur in the Pd NPs/wood.
New serological platform for detecting antibodies against Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in European badgers
Authors: Infantes‐Lorenzo Jose A. , Dave Dipesh , Moreno Immaculada , Anderson Paul , Lesellier Sandrine , Gormley Eamonn , Dominguez Lucas , Balseiro Ana , Gortázar Christian , Dominguez Mercedes , Salguero Francisco J.
Published: January 2019

European badgers (Meles meles) have been identified as wildlife reservoirs for Mycobacterium bovis in the UK and Ireland, and may also have a role in the epidemiology of animal tuberculosis in other European regions. Thus, detection of M. bovis‐infected badgers may be required for the purposes of surveillance and monitoring of disease levels in infected populations. Current serological assays to detect M. bovis infection in live badgers, while rapid and inexpensive, show limited diagnostic sensitivity. Here we describe and evaluate new ELISA platforms for the recognition of the P22 multiprotein complex derived from the purified protein derivative (PPD) of M. bovis. The recognition of IgG against P22 multiprotein complex derived from PPD‐B was tested by ELISA in the serum of badgers from the UK, Ireland and Spain. TB infection in the badgers was indicated by the presence of M. bovis in tissues by culture and histology at post‐mortem examination and TB‐free status was established by repeated negativity in the interferon γ release assay (IGRA). In experimentally infected badgers, humoral antibody responses against P22 developed within 45 days post‐infection. The ELISA tests showed estimated sensitivity levels of 74–82% in experimentally and naturally infected badgers with specificities ranging from 75% to 100% depending on the badger population tested. The P22 multi‐antigen based ELISAs provide a sensitive and specific test platform for improved tuberculosis surveillance in badgers.
Model‐based clustering and classification of functional data
Authors: Chamroukhi Faicel , Nguyen Hien D.
Published: January 2019

Complex data analysis is a central topic of modern statistics and learning systems which is becoming of broader interest with the increasing prevalence of high‐dimensional data. The challenge is to develop statistical models and autonomous algorithms that are able to discern knowledge from raw data, which can be achieved through clustering techniques, or to make predictions of future data via classification techniques. Latent data models, including mixture model‐based approaches, are among the most popular and successful approaches in both supervised and unsupervised learning. Although being traditional tools in multivariate analysis, they are growing in popularity when considered in the framework of functional data analysis (FDA). FDA is the data analysis paradigm in which each datum is a function, rather than a real vector. In many areas of application, including signal and image processing, functional imaging, bioinformatics, etc., the analyzed data are indeed often available in the form of discretized values of functions, curves, or surfaces. This functional aspect of the data adds additional difficulties when compared to classical multivariate data analysis. We review and present approaches for model‐based clustering and classification of functional data. We present well‐grounded statistical models along with efficient algorithmic tools to address problems regarding the clustering and the classification of these functional data, including their heterogeneity, missing information, and dynamical hidden structures. The presented models and algorithms are illustrated via real‐world functional data analysis problems from several areas of application.

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts

Algorithmic Development > Statistics

Technologies > Structure Discovery and Clustering
Metaphysics of Freedom
Authors: Dierksmeier Claus
Published: January 2019

This chapter defends the role of metaphysical arguments within contemporary philosophies of freedom. In particular, it tries to show that liberal thinkers today still have much to gain from a critically selective appropriation of the theories of Immanuel Kant, Johann Gottlieb Fichte, and Karl Christian Friedrich Krause. An analysis of their contributions to the tradition of idealistic liberalism brings out a dimension of cosmopolitan responsibility as inherent to the liberal principle itself. The idea of freedom, this chapter demonstrates, can and must be the principle for both the legitimation and the limitation of citizens’ liberties. If and where the laws that curb people’s liberties follow said principle, such regulations change their nature: from a restriction of personal freedom to its societal realization. Moreover, what legitimates people’s entitlements to civic freedoms is not the particularity of their respective individuality but their personality in general. If, however, we owe freedom to people as persons, then to all persons, including future generations, and consequently the proper limits of the liberties of each lie in the enabling conditions of the freedoms of all. Individual freedom and cosmopolitan responsibility, that is, go hand in hand.
Qualitative Freedom
Authors: Dierksmeier Claus
Published: January 2019

This chapter portrays two thinkers, John Kenneth Galbraith and Amartya Sen, who set out with a qualitative conception of freedom. Both took offense at the contemporary state of affairs in economic policy and, by extension, in economic theory and business education. On their view, neoclassical economics has become myopic by hewing to merely quantitative parameters. However, by extricating from the realm of economic analysis all qualitative and normative considerations, economics has impoverished itself and has robbed economic policy of the requisite means to progress towards a more ecologically, socially, and morally sustainable order of business. As a consequence, Galbraith and Sen reject the merely quantitative conceptions of economic and political liberty buttressing conventional economic wisdom. Instead, they fend for a more self-critical notion of liberty that intellectually and practically realizes the qualitative dimension of freedom in a democratic fashion. Thus, they renew an argument that had already had much currency in metaphysical theories of freedom, i.e. that freedom must not only be pursued in substance but also in procedure. People should not only be passive recipients of the rights and benefits of liberal orders, but also, importantly, their active and transformative architects.
Subleading BMS charges and fake news near null infinity
Authors: Godazgar Hadi , Godazgar Mahdi , Pope C. N.
Published: January 2019

Abstract

In this paper we establish a relation between the non-linearly conserved New-man-Penrose charges and certain subleading terms in a large-r expansion of the BMS charges in an asymptotically-flat spacetime. We define the subleading BMS charges by considering a 1/r-expansion of the Barnich-Brandt prescription for defining asymptotic charges in an asymptotically-flat spacetime. At the leading order, i.e. 1/r
0, one obtains the standard BMS charges, which would be integrable and conserved in the absence of a flux term at null infinity, corresponding to gravitational radiation, or Bondi news. At subleading orders, analogous terms in general provide obstructions to the integrability of the corresponding charges. Since the subleading terms are defined close to null infinity, but vanish actually at infinity, the analogous obstructions are not associated with genuine Bondi news. One may instead describe them as corresponding to “fake news”. At order r
−3, we find that a set of integrable charges can be defined and that these are related to the ten non-linearly conserved Newman-Penrose charges.
Bioactive molecules fromNocardia: diversity, bioactivities and biosynthesis
Authors: Dhakal Dipesh , Rayamajhi Vijay , Mishra Ravindra , Sohng Jae Kyung
Published: January 2019

Nocardia spp. are catalase positive, aerobic, and non-motile Gram-positive filamentous bacteria. Many Nocarida spp. have been reported as unusual causes of diverse clinical diseases in both humans and animals. Therefore, they have been studied for a long time, primarily focusing on strain characterization, taxonomic classification of new isolates, and host pathophysiology. Currently, there are emerging interests in isolating bioactive molecules from diverse actinobacteria including Nocardia spp. and studying their biosynthetic mechanisms. In addition, these species possess significant metabolic capacity, which has been utilized for generating diverse functionalized bioactive molecules by whole cell biotransformation. This review summarizes the structural diversity and biological activities of compounds biosynthesized or biotransformed by Nocardia spp. Furthermore, the recent advances on biosynthetic mechanisms and genetic engineering approaches for enhanced production or structural/functional modification are presented.
Atom Probe Tomography Investigations of Microstructural Evolution in an Aged Nickel Superalloy for Exhaust Applications
Authors: Gardner Hazel , Pedrazzini Stella , Douglas James O. , De Lille Didier , Moody Michael P. , Bagot Paul A. J.
Published: January 2019

The formation and evolution of nanoscale γ″ (Ni3(Nb, Ti, Al)) precipitates formed during thermal aging in the nickel superalloy Inconel 625 has been characterized using Atom Probe Tomography. The onset of γ″ precipitation has been found to occur after only one hour, markedly shorter than the aging time reported in the current literature. Evolution of precipitate composition and morphology during aging has been analyzed, and the potential onset of the γ″ → δ (Ni3(Nb, Mo, Cr, Fe, Ti)) transformation after long aging times is discussed.
Social support and post-traumatic growth among a sample of arthritis patients: Analysis in light of conservation of resources theory
Authors: Sörensen Jessica , Rzeszutek Marcin , Gasik Robert
Published: January 2019

The study examined the association between social support dimensions and post-traumatic growth (PTG) among a sample of arthritis patients. In particular, we wanted to verify the mediating role of resources, as described by the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, on the aforementioned relationship. A total of 207 patients with a clinical diagnosis of arthritis were recruited to participate in the study, including 149 females and 58 males. This was a cross-sectional study, with PTG evaluated by the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) and social support assessed via the Berlin Social Support Scales (BSSS). To assess the level of subjectively possessed resources among participants, we used the COR evaluation questionnaire (COR-E). Provided support, but not received support, was positively related to the level of PTG among participants. In addition, the level of spiritual resources mediated the aforementioned relationship. The results of this contribute to the literature on the psychological aspects of arthritis. It seems that providing support may be related to positive consequences among arthritis patients, in the form of PTG, with spiritual resources being of significant value in this process.
Biologic staple line reinforcement for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: A case series
Authors: Washington Morris J. , Hodde Jason P. , Cohen Emily , Cote Lydia
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACT

Background:

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) is currently the most common bariatric procedure worldwide. Staple Line Reinforcement (SLR) with biological or synthetic material has been recommended to reduce complications such as staple line bleeding and leakage following LSG. SLR devices have been studied and have shown varied results in reducing these complications.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of postoperative bleeding and staple line leakage associated with LSG when using a SLR material made from porcine small intestinal submucosa.

Setting:

Community Hospital.

Methods:

This was a single surgeon retrospective case review of all patients who had undergone LSG to treat severe obesity at our institution between January 2012 and August 2016 and had their staple line reinforced with a SLR device made from porcine small intestinal submucosa. Postoperative complications within the 30-day postoperative window, including bleeding and staple line leakage, were recorded.

Results:

A total of 722 procedures were performed (female, 77%; age, 48.7 ± 13.2 years; preoperative Body Mass Index, 43.9 ± 7.6 kg/m2). The mean operative time was 109 ± 40 min and average length of stay was 1.5 days. Postoperative bleeding was noted in 9 patients (1.2%); 2 patients (0.3%) required re-operation for bleeding. Four (0.6%) post-operative staple line leaks were recorded. There was one post-operative death of indeterminate etiology.

Conclusions:

Staple line reinforcement with porcine small intestinal submucosa has leak and bleed rates comparable to those reported for other staple line reinforcement devices.

Highlights:
Enhancing Radiocarbon Chronologies of Colonization: Chronometric Hygiene Revisited
Authors: Schmid Magdalena M E , Wood Rachel , Newton Anthony J , Vésteinsson Orri , Dugmore Andrew J
Published: January 2019

Accurately dating when people first colonized new areas is vital for understanding the pace of past cultural and environmental changes, including questions of mobility, human impacts and human responses to climate change. Establishing effective chronologies of these events requires the synthesis of multiple radiocarbon (14C) dates. Various “chronometric hygiene” protocols have been used to refine14C dating of island colonization, but they can discard up to 95% of available14C dates leaving very small datasets for further analysis. Despite their foundation in sound theory, without independent tests we cannot know if these protocols are apt, too strict or too lax. In Iceland, an ice core-dated tephrochronology of the archaeology of first settlement enables us to evaluate the accuracy of14C chronologies. This approach demonstrated that the inclusion of a wider range of14C samples in Bayesian models improves the precision, but does not affect the model outcome. Therefore, based on our assessments, we advocate a new protocol that works with a much wider range of samples and where outlying14C dates are systematically disqualified using BayesianOutlier Models. We show that this approach can produce robusttermini ante quosfor colonization events and may be usefully applied elsewhere.
Magma production along the Lord Howe Seamount Chain, northern Zealandia
Authors: Seton Maria , Williams Simon , Mortimer Nick , Meffre Sebastien , Micklethwaite Steven , Zahirovic Sabin
Published: January 2019

One of the world’s most notable intraplate volcanic regions lies on the eastern Australian plate and includes two age-progressive trails offshore (Tasmantid and Lord Howe seamount chains) and the world’s longest continental hotspot trail (Cosgrove Track). While most studies agree that these chains formed by the rapid northward motion of the Australian plate over a slowly moving mantle source, the volcanic output along these trails, their plate–mantle interactions and the source of the magmatism remain unconstrained. A geophysical mapping and dredging campaign on the RV Southern Surveyor (ss2012_v06) confirmed the prolongation of the Lord Howe Seamount Chain to the South Rennell Trough, ∼200 km further north than previously sampled. Radiometric dating of these new samples at 27–28 Ma, together with previously published results from the southern part of the chain, indicate straightforward northward motion of the Australian plate over a quasi-stationary hotspot as predicted by Indo-Atlantic and Pacific hotspot models. A peak in Lord Howe Seamount Chain magmatism in late Oligocene time, also seen in the Tasmantid and Cosgrove trails, matches a 27–23 Ma slowdown of Australian plate motion. The average magma flux of the Lord Howe hotspot is estimated at 0.4 m3 s−1, similar to rates of crustal production at the South Rennell Trough prior to cessation of spreading in middle Oligocene time, supporting a potential genetic relationship to this spreading system. In addition, plate tectonic modelling suggests that the seamounts and plateaus in the Coral Sea may host the earliest evidence of plume activity in the area.