bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONFLICT PREVENTION POLICY IN THE UK
Authors: Stalovierova Anna
Published: September 2017

Over the next decade, the UK has learned significant lessons in the field of crisis and conflict prevention, in particular about the importance of avoiding recurring conflicts in fragile states that often find themselves in a vicious circle of violence and underdevelopment. As a result, the UK revised its investment priorities in order to focus on fragile and conflict-affected states and strengthened interdepartmental coordination – particularly between DFID and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) – to focus on the links between security and development. Conflicts have a destructive effect on years of development efforts and on the overall security of a country or region. Development is favoured by trade and, therefore, by the free movement of goods and people, which requires a certain level of security
ADMINISTRATIVE, LEGAL AND SUPERVISORY DETERMINANTS
OF GLOBALIZATION OF FINANCIAL MARKETS AND THE BANKING
SYSTEM IN POLAND
Authors: Gwoździewicz Sylwia , Prokopowicz Dariusz
Published: September 2017

Since the early 90s of the last century, the growing importance of globalization
processes in Poland, executing in the field of socio-economic and cultural unification of
the community has been observed. Due to the ongoing process of the transformation of the
Polish economy, this process was also determined successively increasing integration of
financial markets and the development of ICT. Currently operating in Poland, the
financial system and the banking sector is one of the most globalized sectors of the
economy. This process has been intensified Polish accession to the European Union in
2004. High scale of financial markets globalization in Poland was visualized during the
recent financial crisis 2008 years. The process of globalization of financial markets and
the banking system in Poland is determined mainly by factors such as administrative and
supervisory functions of central banking and supervisory bodies in the financial system
and to adapt legal norms to the standards of Western developed countries.
ECONOMIC INSTRUMENTS OF STATE REGULATION
OF BUSINESS ENTITIES DISTRIBUTION OF INCOME
Authors: Samoliuk Natalia
Published: September 2017

The article describes the essence of the concepts of «regulation», «state regulation»,
«state regulation of incomes». Also point and analyzed the main economic instruments of
state regulation of the distribution of income between the fact-set of their production,
including taxes. It made a comparison of tax instruments around the world. Priority areas
for the economic regulation of income to determine.
THE GOVERNMENT POLICY ON INNOVATION AND INVESTMENT
DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Navrotskyi Ruslan
Published: September 2017

In this journal article, it is clearly viewed into depth details about the state policy in
the field of innovation and investment development. It is also considered the state regulators
and scientific innovation. Here will be found the regulatory and legislative acts on
which the innovation policy is based. It has also been found the basic sources of financing
of innovative cost of the Rivne region for the 2011 – 2014 years. It was found that the
main source of financing expenses were own funds of enterprises. It has been analysed the
costs of the enterprises on the innovation development, and it also has been developed the
measures to improve public policy.
Systematic study of Ethylene-Vinyl
Acetate (EVA) in the manufacturing
of protector devices for the orofacial
system
Authors: Dias R.B. , Coto N.P. , Batalha G.F. , Driemeier L.
Published: September 2017

Purpose: This study aims to provide a systematic evaluation of the EVA application in
orofacial protectors while focusing on sports.
Design/methodology/approach: The research comprises a numerical analysis. During
experimental tests, EVA was analysed in special more specific studies about its influence
on the mechanical behaviour of EVA were performed. In the numerical analyses of the EVA
orofacial protector, the studies focused on its effect in the zygomatic bone protection, in a
simplified geometry.
Findings: According to the experimental and numerical results from a systematic study of
EVA, its application to orofacial protection can be considered satisfactory.
Research limitations/implications: The limitations for this research is the complex
geometry of the face, number of materials and parameters involved in this study.
Practical implications: For facial protection, a better performance is obtained with a
combination of rigid and soft EVA material. Particularly for the zygomatic bone, a 3 mm thick
plate of soft EVA overlapped by a 1 mm thick plate of rigid EVA is indicated.
Originality/value: The studies made for this researchers group show that the EVA use in
facial protection for sports is effective.
Militância estudantil e memórias dos anos 1960
Authors: Brito Mauricio Freitas
Published: September 2017

O artigo explora entrevistas de militantes estudantis dos anos 1960 que atuaram na UFBA. Investiga essa memória militante a respeito do movimento estudantil e suas representações sobre festa na política, violência, repressão e usos políticos do passado. Reflete sobre o esquecimento nas narrativas das lutas desenvolvidas pela militância estudantil antes do golpe de 1964. Sugere que investigar as continuidades e rupturas entre a militância estudantil antes do golpe e a que atuou na resistência à ditadura pode contribuir para novas problemáticas historiográficas. Problematiza a associação entre geração de 1960 e geração de 1968. Palavras-chave: Movimentos estudantis – Brasil. Estudantes – Atividades Políticas. Ditadura – Brasil. Memórias Estudantis. Geração de 1960 – Geração de 1968.
“O Oeste Catarinense não pode parar aqui”. Política, agroindústria e uma história do ideal de progresso em Chapecó (1950-1969)
Authors: Silva Claiton Marcio da , Hass Monica
Published: September 2017

Este artigo tem por objetivo discutir a importância da ideia de progresso na fundamentação de um projeto de hegemonia política e econômica em Chapecó, Santa Catarina, entre 1950 e 1969. Com a intensão de ocupar a região considerada como “vazio demográfico”, o governo do estado de Santa Catarina articulou o projeto de conquista da região através da atuação de companhias colonizadoras, responsáveis pela acomodação de migrantes eurodescendentes provindos do Rio Grande do Sul. Neste sentido, durante a primeira metade da década de 1950, as companhias colonizadoras simbolizaram o empreendimento de um processo “civilizatório” para a região, baseados em ideias de trabalho árduo, religiosidade católica e progresso. Com o linchamento de quatro forasteiros acusados de incendiar a igreja matriz em 1950, contemporâneo do declínio do poder político e econômico das companhias colonizadoras, as elites locais precisaram se articular na composição de um projeto político em torno da agroindústria como nova matriz produtiva, como forma de levar adiante o projeto colonizador. A ideia de progresso, neste sentido, mais do que um conceito abstrato, passou a traduzir e fundamentar a construção de um projeto político hegemônico, reunindo em torno de si diferentes grupos políticos e econômicos e que, nas décadas de 1950 e 1960, se materializou no aumento da infraestrutura regional e se difundiu por todos os demais grupos sociais do município. O artigo conclui com a abordagem do que consideramos ser o momento mais significativo desta construção: os festejos do cinquentenário de Chapecó, em 1967, durante a ditadura civil-militar, e a aproximação das elites locais em torno de um projeto que se consolidou na década de 1970. Palavras-chave: Chapecó, SC – Política e Governo. Agroindústria. Chapecó, SC – História. Chapecó, SC – Colonização.
História do Tempo Presente e América Latina: Argentina - uma entrevista com María Inés Mudrovcic
Authors: Daminelli Camila Serafim , Machieski Elisangela da Silva
Published: September 2017

EntrevistadaMaría Inés Mudrovcic es doctora en filosofía por la Universidad de buenos aires, profesora titular de filosofía de la historia en la Universidad Nacional del Comahue e investigadora del CONICET y categoría I en el Programa Nacional de Incentivos. Actualmente es Directora del Centro de Investigaciones en Filosofía de las Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades y miembro del Consejo Directivo del Instituto Patagónico de Estudios en Humanidades y Ciencias Sociales. Ha sido profesora invitada en numerosas universidades nacionales e internacionales. Ha escrito Voltaire, el Iluminismo y la Historia (Buenoa Aires, Fundec, 1996), Historia, Narración y Memoria. Los debates actuales en filosofía de la historia (Madrid, Akal, 2005), como editora, Pasados recientes en conflicto. Representación, mito y política (Buenos Aires, Prometeo, 2009) y en co-autoría, En busca del tiempo pasado. Temporalidad, historia y memoria (México, Siglo XXI, 2013). Asimismo ha escrito artículos y capítulos de libro sobre teoría y filosofía de la historia Entrevista concedida em agosto de 2017.
Por uma antropologia das emoções do nazismo
Authors: Becher Franciele
Published: September 2017

Resenha da obra de Christian Ingrao, "Crer e destruir: os intelectuais na máquina de guerra da SS nazista" (2015).
When are declines in condom use while using PrEP a concern? Modelling insights from a Hillbrow, South Africa case study
Authors: Grant Hannah , Mukandavire Zindoga , Eakle Robyn , Prudden Holly , B Gomez Gabriela , Rees Helen , Watts Charlotte
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising new prevention approach for those most at risk of HIV infection. However, there are concerns that behavioural disinhibition, specifically reductions in condom use, might limit PrEP's protective effect. This study uses the case of female sex workers (FSWs) in Johannesburg, South Africa, to assess whether decreased levels of condom use following the introduction of PrEP may limit HIV risk reduction.

Methods: We developed a static model of HIV risk and compared HIV‐risk estimates before and after the introduction of PrEP to determine the maximum tolerated reductions in condom use with regular partners and clients for HIV risk not to change. The model incorporated the effects of increased STI exposure owing to decreased condom use. Noting that condom use with regular partners is generally low, we also estimated the change in condom use tolerated with clients only, to still achieve 50 and 90% risk reduction on PrEP. The model was parameterized using data from Hillbrow, Johannesburg. Sensitivity analyses were performed to ascertain the robustness of our results.

Results: Reductions in condom use could be tolerated by FSWs with lower baseline condom use (65%). For scenarios where 75% PrEP effectiveness is attained, 50% HIV‐risk reduction on PrEP would be possible even with 100% reduction in condom use from consistent condom use as high as 70% with clients. Increased exposure to STIs through reductions in condom use had limited effect on the reductions in condom use tolerated for HIV risk not to increase on PrEP.

Conclusions: PrEP is likely to be of benefit in reducing HIV risk, even if reductions in condom use do occur. Efforts to promote consistent condom use will be critical for FSWs with high initial levels of condom use, but with challenges in adhering to PrEP.
A Histidine pH sensor regulates activation of the Ras-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor RasGRP1
Authors: Vercoulen Yvonne , Kondo Yasushi , Iwig Jeffrey S , Janssen Axel B , White Katharine A , Amini Mojtaba , Barber Diane L , Kuriyan John , Roose Jeroen P
Published: September 2017

RasGRPs are guanine nucleotide exchange factors that are specific for Ras or Rap, and are important regulators of cellular signaling. Aberrant expression or mutation of RasGRPs results in disease. An analysis of RasGRP1 SNP variants led to the conclusion that the charge of His 212 in RasGRP1 alters signaling activity and plasma membrane recruitment, indicating that His 212 is a pH sensor that alters the balance between the inactive and active forms of RasGRP1. To understand the structural basis for this effect we compared the structure of autoinhibited RasGRP1, determined previously, to those of active RasGRP4:H-Ras and RasGRP2:Rap1b complexes. The transition from the autoinhibited to the active form of RasGRP1 involves the rearrangement of an inter-domain linker that displaces inhibitory inter-domain interactions. His 212 is located at the fulcrum of these conformational changes, and structural features in its vicinity are consistent with its function as a pH-dependent switch.
A tissue-specific, Gata6-driven transcriptional program instructs remodeling of the mature arterial tree
Authors: Losa Marta , Latorre Victor , Andrabi Munazah , Ladam Franck , Sagerström Charles , Novoa Ana , Zarrineh Peyman , Bridoux Laure , Hanley Neil A , Mallo Moises , Bobola Nicoletta
Published: September 2017

Connection of the heart to the systemic circulation is a critical developmental event that requires selective preservation of embryonic vessels (aortic arches). However, why some aortic arches regress while others are incorporated into the mature aortic tree remains unclear. By microdissection and deep sequencing in mouse, we find that neural crest (NC) only differentiates into vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) around those aortic arches destined for survival and reorganization, and identify the transcription factor Gata6 as a crucial regulator of this process. Gata6 is expressed in SMCs and its target genes activation control SMC differentiation. Furthermore, Gata6 is sufficient to promote SMCs differentiation in vivo, and drive preservation of aortic arches that ought to regress. These findings identify Gata6-directed differentiation of NC to SMCs as an essential mechanism that specifies the aortic tree, and provide a new framework for how mutations in GATA6 lead to congenital heart disorders in humans.
Identification of reference genes in blood before and after entering the plateau for SYBR green RT-qPCR studies
Authors: Xiao Jun , Li Xiaowei , Liu Juan , Fan Xiu , Lei Huifen , Li Cuiying
Published: September 2017

Background

Tibetans have lived at high altitudes for thousands of years, and they have unique physiological traits that enable them to tolerate this hypoxic environment. However, the genetic basis of these traits is still unknown. As a sensitive and highly efficient technique, RT-qPCR is widely used in gene expression analyses to provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying environmental changes. However, the quantitative analysis of gene expression in blood is limited by a shortage of stable reference genes for the normalization of mRNA levels. Thus, systematic approaches were used to identify potential reference genes.

Results

The expression levels of eight candidate human reference genes (GAPDH, ACTB, 18S RNA, β2-MG, PPIA, RPL13A, TBP and SDHA) were assessed in blood from hypoxic environments. The expression stability of these selected reference genes was evaluated using the geNorm, NormFinder and BestKeeper programs. Interestingly, RPL13A was identified as the ideal reference gene for normalizing target gene expression in human blood before and after exposure to high-altitude conditions.

Conclusion

These results indicate that different reference genes should be selected for the normalization of gene expression in blood from different environmental settings.
The Spanish version of the Fatigue Assessment Scale: reliability and validity assessment in postpartum women
Authors: Cano-Climent Antoni , Oliver-Roig Antonio , Cabrero-García Julio , de Vries Jolanda , Richart-Martínez Miguel
Published: September 2017

Background

Fatigue is the most widely reported symptom by women during pregnancy, labour, the postpartum period, and early parenting. The objective was to translate the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS) into Spanish and assess its psychometric properties.

Methods

Instrumental Design. The FAS was translated into Spanish (FAS-e) using forward and back translation. A convenience sample was constituted with 870 postpartum women recruited at discharge from 17 public hospitals in Eastern Spain. Data was obtained from clinical records and self-administered questionnaires at discharge. Internal consistency, factor structure, comparisons between known groups and correlations with other variables were assessed.

Results

Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was .80. Findings on the dimensionality of the FAS-e scale indicated that it was sufficiently unidimensional. FAS-e scores were higher among women who had undergone caesarean births (p < .05), had a higher level of postpartum pain (p < .01), experienced difficulties during breastfeeding (p < .01) and had lower levels of self-efficacy for breastfeeding (p < .01).

Conclusions

An equivalent Spanish version of the FAS was obtained with good reliability and validity properties. FAS-e is an appropriate tool to measure postpartum fatigue.
A probe-based qRT-PCR method to profile immunological gene expression in blood of captive beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)
Authors: Tsai Ming-An , Chen I-Hua , Wang Jiann-Hsiung , Chou Shih-Jen , Li Tsung-Hsien , Leu Ming-Yih , Ho Hsiao-Kuan , Yang Wei Cheng
Published: September 2017

Cytokines are fundamental for a functioning immune system, and thus potentially serve as important indicators of animal health. Quantitation of mRNA using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is an established immunological technique. It is particularly suitable for detecting the expression of proteins against which monoclonal antibodies are not available. In this study, we developed a probe-based quantitative gene expression assay for immunological assessment of captive beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) that is one of the most common cetacean species on display in aquariums worldwide. Six immunologically relevant genes (IL-2Rα, -4, -10, -12, TNFα, and IFNγ) were selected for analysis, and two validated housekeeping genes (PGK1 and RPL4) with stable expression were used as reference genes. Sixteen blood samples were obtained from four animals with different health conditions and stored in RNAlater™ solution. These samples were used for RNA extraction followed by qRT-PCR analysis. Analysis of gene transcripts was performed by relative quantitation using the comparative Cq method with the integration of amplification efficiency and two reference genes. The expression levels of each gene in the samples from clinically healthy animals were normally distributed. Transcript outliers for IL-2Rα, IL-4, IL-12, TNFα, and IFNγ were noticed in four samples collected from two clinically unhealthy animals. This assay has the potential to identify immune system deviation from normal state, which is caused by health problems. Furthermore, knowing the immune status of captive cetaceans could help both trainers and veterinarians in implementing preventive approaches prior to disease onset.
Advances in the study of nodavirus
Authors: Yong Chean Yeah , Yeap Swee Keong , Omar Abdul Rahman , Tan Wen Siang
Published: September 2017

Nodaviruses are small bipartite RNA viruses which belong to the family ofNodaviridae. They are categorized into alpha-nodavirus, which infects insects, and beta-nodavirus, which infects fishes. Another distinct group of nodavirus infects shrimps and prawns, which has been proposed to be categorized as gamma-nodavirus. Our current review focuses mainly on recent studies performed on nodaviruses. Nodavirus can be transmitted vertically and horizontally. Recent outbreaks have been reported in China, Indonesia, Singapore and India, affecting the aquaculture industry. It also decreased mullet stock in the Caspian Sea. Histopathology and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to examine the presence of nodaviruses in infected fishes and prawns. For classification, virus isolation followed by nucleotide sequencing are required. In contrast to partial sequence identification, profiling the whole transcriptome using next generation sequencing (NGS) offers a more comprehensive comparison and characterization of the virus. For rapid diagnosis of nodavirus, assays targeting the viral RNA based on reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) such as microfluidic chips, reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) and RT-LAMP coupled with lateral flow dipstick (RT-LAMP-LFD) have been developed. Besides viral RNA detections, diagnosis based on immunological assays such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunodot and Western blotting have also been reported. In addition, immune responses of fish and prawn are also discussed. Overall, in fish, innate immunity, cellular type I interferon immunity and humoral immunity cooperatively prevent nodavirus infections, whereas prawns and shrimps adopt different immune mechanisms against nodavirus infections, through upregulation of superoxide anion, prophenoloxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), crustin, peroxinectin, anti-lipopolysaccharides and heat shock proteins (HSP). Potential vaccines for fishes and prawns based on inactivated viruses, recombinant proteins or DNA, either delivered through injection, oral feeding or immersion, are also discussed in detail. Lastly, a comprehensive review on nodavirus virus-like particles (VLPs) is presented. In recent years, studies on prawn nodavirus are mainly focused onMacrobrachium rosenbergiinodavirus (MrNV). RecombinantMrNV VLPs have been produced in prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression systems. Their roles as a nucleic acid delivery vehicle, a platform for vaccine development, a molecular tool for mechanism study and in solving the structures ofMrNV are intensively discussed.
Overview of the ISS Radiation Environment Observed during the ESA EXPOSE‐R2 Mission in 2014–2016
Authors: Dachev T. P. , Bankov N. G. , Tomov B. T. , Matviichuk Yu. N. , Dimitrov Pl. G. , Häder D.‐P. , Horneck G.
Published: September 2017

The radiation risk radiometer‐dosimeter (R3D)‐R2 solid‐state detector performed radiation measurements at the European Space Agency EXPOSE‐R2 platform outside of the Russian “Zvezda” module at the International Space Station (ISS) from 24 October 2014 to 11 January 2016. The ISS orbital parameters were average altitude of 415 km and 51.6° inclination. We developed special software and used experimentally obtained formulas to determine the radiation flux‐to‐dose ratio from the R3DR2 Liulin‐type deposited‐energy spectrometer. We provide for the first time simultaneous, long‐term estimates of radiation dose external to the ISS for four source categories: (i) galactic cosmic ray particles and their secondary products; (ii) protons in the South Atlantic Anomaly region of the inner radiation belt (IRB); (iii) relativistic electrons and/or bremsstrahlung in the outer radiation belt (ORB); and (iv) solar energetic particle (SEP) events. The latter category is new in this study. Additionally, in this study, secondary particles (SP) resulting from energetic particle interaction with the detector and nearby materials are identified. These are observed continuously at high latitudes. The detected SPs are identified using the same sorting requirements as SEP protons. The IRB protons provide the highest consistent hourly dose, while the ORB electrons and SEPs provide the most extreme hourly doses. SEPs were observed 11 times during the study interval. The R3DR2 data support calculation of average equivalent doses. The 30 day and 1 year average equivalent doses are much smaller than the skin and eyes doses recommendations by the National Council on Radiation Protection (Report 132), which provides radiation protection guidance for Low Earth Orbit.
Ms. Hisako Koyama: From Amateur Astronomer to Long‐Term Solar Observer
Authors: Knipp Delores , Liu Huixin , Hayakawa Hisashi
Published: September 2017

The path to science for a girl of any nationality born in the early twentieth century was formidable‐to‐nonexistent. Yet paths were forged by a few. We present the little‐known story of one of Japan's premier solar observers and her contribution to the world's understanding of sunspots and space weather cycles. Ms. Hisako Koyama, born in Tokyo in 1916, became a passionate amateur astronomer, a dedicated solar observer, and a long‐serving staff member of the National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo. As a writer for amateur astronomy journals she advised many on the details and joys of sky viewing. She created a consistent, extended record of sunspots. Her multidecade archive of sunspot drawings is one of the “backbones” for the recent international recalibration of the sunspot record that provides insight into space weather reaching back to the early 1600s. We detail her contributions to the citizens of Japan as an ambassador of astronomy and her international contribution to understanding the symmetries and asymmetries of the solar cycle. We comment on the value of her continuous record of sunspots and on her tenacity in promoting a science that links to space weather.
Amyloid Templated Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Aerogels
Authors: Nyström Gustav , Roder Lukas , Fernández‐Ronco María P. , Mezzenga Raffaele
Published: September 2017

This feature article covers the recent developments of amyloid fibrils as templates for organic–inorganic hybrid aerogels. It aims at introducing the reader to amyloid fibril functional bio‐nanomaterials and to show how, building on the prior art of colloidal aerogels, these anisotropic colloids can be used to template inorganic particles and to form gels and aerogels. Specifically, hybrid organic–inorganic amyloid fibril templated gold, silver, and calcium aerogels are discussed focusing on their material synthesis and how the preparation conditions can be tuned to vary the final materials' optical, structural, and mechanical properties. The colloidal processing methodology offers a convenient route to form gels and aerogels that maintain the nanoscopic dispersion properties within the formed monoliths. These ultralight porous materials are appealing for a diverse set of applications within food, fine arts, jewelry, and biomedicine. Here their use as pressure sensor, catalysis membrane, and antibacterial material are described and further applications based on the properties of the specific inorganic particles and hybrid aerogels are discussed.
Biohybrid Photoprotein‐Semiconductor Cells with Deep‐Lying Redox Shuttles Achieve a 0.7 V Photovoltage
Authors: Singh Varun Kumar , Ravi Sai Kishore , Ho Jian Wei , Wong Johnson Kai Chi , Jones Michael R. , Tan Swee Ching
Published: September 2017

Photosynthetic proteins transduce sunlight into biologically useful forms of energy through a photochemical charge separation that has a close to 100% quantum efficiency, and there is increasing interest in their use as sustainable materials in biohybrid devices for solar energy harvesting. This work explores a new strategy for boosting the open circuit voltage of photoelectrochemical cells based on a bacterial photosynthetic pigment‐protein by employing highly oxidizing redox electrolytes in conjunction with an n‐type silicon anode. Illumination generates electron–hole pairs in both the protein and the silicon electrode, the two being connected by the electrolyte which transfers electrons from the reducing terminal of the protein to photogenerated holes in the silicon valence band. A high open circuit voltage of 0.6 V is achieved with the most oxidizing electrolyte 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxy, and this is further improved to 0.7 V on surface modification of the silicon electrode to increase its surface area and reduce reflection of incident light. The photovoltages produced by these biohybrid protein/silicon cells are comparable to those typical of silicon heterojunction and dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Field‐Controlled Electrical Switch with Liquid Metal
Authors: Wissman James , Dickey Michael D. , Majidi Carmel
Published: September 2017

When immersed in an electrolyte, droplets of Ga‐based liquid metal (LM) alloy can be manipulated in ways not possible with conventional electrocapillarity or electrowetting. This study demonstrates how LM electrochemistry can be exploited to coalesce and separate droplets under moderate voltages of ~1–10 V. This novel approach to droplet interaction can be explained with a theory that accounts for oxidation and reduction as well as fluidic instabilities. Based on simulations and experimental analysis, this study finds that droplet separation is governed by a unique limit‐point instability that arises from gradients in bipolar electrochemical reactions that lead to gradients in interfacial tension. The LM coalescence and separation are used to create a field‐programmable electrical switch. As with conventional relays or flip‐flop latch circuits, the system can transition between bistable (separated or coalesced) states, making it useful for memory storage, logic, and shape‐programmable circuitry using entirely liquids instead of solid‐state materials.
Selective S‐Deacetylation of Functionalized Thioacetates Catalyzed by Dy(OTf)3
Authors: Guo Jiun‐Rung , Huang Hsin‐Yi , Yan Yi‐Ling , Liang Chien‐Fu
Published: September 2017

The dysprosium(III)‐trifluoromethanesulfonate‐catalyzed S‐deacetylation and selective S‐deacetylation reactions of functionalized thioesters could be tuned by changing the reaction medium or through the inclusion of additives. In this study, the deprotection of thioacetates by using catalytic amounts of Dy(OTf)3 under mild heating resulted in high yields of the free thiols without the formation of disulfide byproducts, whilst the selective S‐deacetylation reaction by using a combination of catalytic amounts of Dy(OTf)3 and NaHCO3 afforded the products in moderate‐to‐excellent yields. Moreover, glycosyl 1‐thioacetate was selectively S‐deacetylated at the anomeric position in a co‐solvent system. Notably, Dy(OTf)3 is an environmentally friendly catalyst, and a recycling strategy was successfully employed for the S‐deacetylation reaction.
Plasma sphingolipids and depressive symptoms in coronary artery disease
Authors: Dinoff Adam , Saleem Mahwesh , Herrmann Nathan , Mielke Michelle M. , Oh Paul I. , Venkata Swarajya Lakshmi Vattem , Haughey Norman J. , Lanctôt Krista L.
Published: September 2017

Background

Depression is highly prevalent in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) and increases the risk of future cardiac events and mortality. Sphingolipids have been implicated in the pathophysiology of both CAD and depression. This study assessed the association between plasma sphingolipid concentrations and depressive symptoms in CAD subjects.

Methods

Depressive symptoms were measured using the depression subscale of the self‐reported Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Sphingolipid concentrations were measured from fasting plasma samples using high‐performance liquid chromatography‐coupled electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). Linear regression models were used to assess associations between log‐transformed concentrations of plasma sphingolipids and depressive symptoms.

Results

A total of 111 CAD patients (mean (SD) age = 63.6 ± 6.4, 84.7% male) were included. In linear regression analyses, higher plasma concentrations of ceramides C16:0 (β = 0.204, p = .026) and C18:0 (β = 0.209, p = .023) and sphingomyelin SM18:1 (β = 0.210, p = .024) were significantly associated with higher HADS depression subscale score after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion

Sphingolipids, in particular the ceramide species C16:0 and C18:0 and the sphingomyelin species SM18:1, may be implicated in the pathophysiology of depression in CAD. The association between plasma sphingolipid concentrations and depression should be further examined in CAD patients and in other populations.
Object words modulate the activity of the mirror neuron system during action imitation
Authors: Wu Haiyan , Tang Honghong , Ge Yue , Yang Suyong , Mai Xiaoqin , Luo Yue‐Jia , Liu Chao
Published: September 2017

Background

Although research has demonstrated that the mirror neuron system (MNS) plays a crucial role in both action imitation and action‐related semantic processing, whether action‐related words can inversely modulate the MNS activity remains unclear.

Methods

Here, three types of task‐irrelevant words (body parts, verbs, and manufactured objects) were presented to examine the modulation effect of these words on the MNS activity during action observation and imitation. Twenty‐two participants were recruited for the fMRI scanning and remaining data from 19 subjects were reported here.

Results

Brain activity results showed that word types elicited different modulation effects over nodes of the MNS (i.e., the right inferior frontal gyrus, premotor cortex, inferior parietal lobule, and STS), especially during the imitation stage. Compared with other word conditions, action imitation following manufactured objects words induced stronger activation in these brain regions during the imitation stage. These results were consistent in both task‐dependent and ‐independent ROI analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings thus provide evidence for the unique effect of object words on the MNS during imitation of action, which may also confirm the key role of goal inference in action imitation.
Development and characterization of an automated imaging workflow to generate clonally‐derived cell lines for therapeutic proteins
Authors: Shaw David , Yim Mandy , Tsukuda Joni , Joly John C. , Lin Andy , Snedecor Brad , Laird Michael W. , Lang Steven E.
Published: September 2017

In the development of biopharmaceutical products, the expectation of regulatory agencies is that the recombinant proteins are produced from a cell line derived from a single progenitor cell. A single limiting dilution step followed by direct imaging, as supplemental information, provides direct evidence that a cell line originated from a single progenitor cell. To obtain this evidence, a high‐throughput automated imaging system was developed and characterized to consistently ensure that cell lines used for therapeutic protein production are clonally‐derived. Fluorescent cell mixing studies determined that the automated imaging workflow and analysis provide ∼95% confidence in accurately and precisely identifying one cell in a well. Manual inspection of the images increases the confidence that the cell line was derived from a single‐cell to >99.9%. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:584–592, 2018
Lentivirus‐mediated disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 RNA interference reversed the acquired resistance to gefitinib in lung adenocarcinoma cells in vitro
Authors: Li Ya‐Qing , Liu Yuan‐Shun , Ying Xi‐Wang , Zhou Hong‐Bin , Wang Zhehua , Wu Sheng‐Chang , Yan Jian‐Ping , Jing Yu‐Ting , Yang Yang
Published: September 2017

Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of silencing a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM17) gene expression by lentivirus‐mediated RNA interference (RNAi) in the gefitinib‐resistant lung adenocarcinoma cells, and then to explore whether the recombinant lentivirus mediated ADAM17 RNAi reversed the acquired resistance of lung adenocarcinoma to gefitinib in vitro.

Methods: The gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells were established and the mutations of EGFR were detected by gene sequencing. The ADAM17 shRNA expression vectors were constructed and packaged to recombinant lentivirus. The cell proliferation viability was detected by MTT, and cellular apotosis was analyzed by flow cytometry assay. The expression levels of ADAM17, EGFR and the phosphorylated EGFR were respectively detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and western blot. TGF‐α production in the supernatant was detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells in which mutated EGFR (exon 20) carried 790T > T/M mutation were established. When the concentrations of gefitinib were less than 10μmol/L, there were no significant changes in the apoptosis and cellular proliferation of RPC‐9 with the dose‐escalation of gefitinib. The cell proliferation viability of RPC‐9 was significantly decreased by lentivirus mediated ADAM17 RNAi (P < 0.05). Gefitinib did not inhibit ADAM17 expression in both the gefitinib‐sensitive PC‐9 and gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells (P > 0.05). Gefitinib had no significant effects on TGF alpha production in the supernatants (P > 0.05). Gefitinib did not inhibit EGFR expression in gefitinib‐sensitive PC‐9 and gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells (P > 0.05). The phosphorylation of EGFR in gefitinib‐sensitive PC‐9 cells was significantly inhibited by gefitinib (P < 0.05), but that in gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 could not be inhibited by gefitinib (P > 0.05). Lentivirus mediated ADAM17 RNAi significantly inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of ADAM17 in gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells (P < 0.05), as well as TGF alpha production in the supernatants (P < 0.05). Also, the phosphorylation of EGFR was significantly reduced in gefitinib‐resistant RPC‐9 cells by lentivirus mediated ADAM17 RNAi (P < 0.05); however, the mRNA and protein expression of EGFR could not be inhibited.

Conclusion: Lentivirus mediated ADAM17 RNAi may reverse the acquired resistance of lung adenocarcinoma to gefitinib via inhibiting the upstream of EGFR signal pathway, which may provide a new therapeutic target to solve the acquired resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in lung adenocarcinoma. © 2017 The Authors Biotechnology Progress published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 34:196–205, 2018
Catheter ablation of typical atrial flutter with the superior approach in a patient with inferior vena cava interruption
Authors: Traykov Vassil , Marchov Daniel , Kirova Galina , Gelev Valeri
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

Inferior vena cava (IVC) interruption is a rare condition that might pose difficulties during typical flutter ablation. When azygos vein continuation is present ablation via the femoral route could be performed. In the absence of azygos vein continuation, typical atrial flutter ablation via a superior approach from the SVC is feasible.
The extra‐anatomical jump graft reconstruction of the right hepatic artery after resection of a biliary tract malignancy with a common hepatic artery aneurysm: a case report
Authors: Kakizaki Yuta , Miyagi Shigehito , Hara Yasuyuki , Fujio Atsushi , Miyazawa Koji , Maida Kai , Kashiwadate Toshiaki , Tokodai Kazuaki , Nakanishi Chikashi , Kamei Takashi , Unno Michiaki
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

Performing resection of a biliary tract malignancy with a hepatic artery aneurysm is very challenging. Resection of the extrahepatic bile duct and extra‐anatomical reconstruction can be successfully performed using free radial artery autografts from the aorta to the right hepatic artery. Hepatic artery thrombosis can be prevented with intimal preservation.
Bony spicules trapped in peri‐implant soft tissue: a common unrecognized finding
Authors: Sampatanukul Teeratida , Serichetaphongse Pravej , Sampatanukul Pichet , Pimkhaokham Atiphan
Published: September 2017

Key Clinical Message

According to the study, there were unexpected tiny bone spicules being inspected in peri‐implant soft tissue. These displaced autogenous bone chips were probably presented when preparing implant sites. The displaced bone spicules seemed not induced significant inflammatory reactions; on contrary, defects of specimens and dissolving bone spicules pictures were demonstrated.
Effects of duloxetine on pain and walking distance in neuropathic pain models via modulation of the spinal monoamine system
Authors: Minami K. , Tamano R. , Kasai E. , Oyama H. , Hasegawa M. , Shinohara S. , Asaki T.
Published: September 2017

Background

Approximately 40% of patients with chronic low back pain have a neuropathic component. In this study, we assessed the effects of analgesics on tactile hypersensitivity and walking distance in the rat cauda equina compression (CEC) model of neuropathic low back pain.

Methods

The effects of analgesics on tactile hypersensitivity were examined using the von Frey test in CEC and partial sciatic nerve ligation (pSNL) models. Effects on walking distance were assessed using a treadmill test. Levels of α2δ1 subunit and ATF‐3 mRNA in dorsal‐root ganglion (DRG) neurons and those of α2δ1 subunit protein in the spinal cord were determined using quantitative RT‐PCR and western blotting, respectively. Histological features were assessed using immunohistological methods.

Results

Histological changes indicating nerve damage (increase in ATF‐3 mRNA, decrease in NF‐200 and an increase in CD68 immunoreactivity) were observed in the CEC model. Duloxetine had analgesic effects in both models and improved walking distance in the CEC model. Pregabalin had analgesic effects in both models; however, the effect was weaker in the CEC model than in the pSNL model. α2δ1 subunit expression in DRG neurons and in the spinal cord was unchanged in the CEC model, but significantly increased in the pSNL model. Indomethacin had no analgesic effect in either model. Intrathecal yohimbine inhibited the effects of duloxetine with significant effects on depression.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the analgesic effects of duloxetine are mainly mediated by the spinal monoamine system, independent of the antidepressant effects of this agent.

Significance

The findings of this study suggest that duloxetine may be an effective treatment of broad neuropathic pain states, including neuropathic low back pain. The analgesic effects of duloxetine might be mediated by alterations of the descending pain modulatory pathways in the spinal cord, independent of the antidepressant effects.
Pencil‐drawn Paper‐based Non‐invasive and Wearable Capacitive Respiration Sensor
Authors: Kanaparthi Srinivasulu
Published: September 2017

This paper describes a fully‐drawn pencil‐on‐paper based low‐cost capacitive sensor for non‐invasive respiration monitoring. The sensor utilizes the hygroscopic character of the paper to measure the breathing rate and pattern. The adsorption and desorption of water molecules on paper during inhalation and exhalation results in variation in its dielectric constant. This change in dielectric constant during respiration reflects the change in capacitance of the sensor. By interfacing the sensor with the microcontroller, the capacitance data was acquired and transferred to a smartphone through Bluetooth communication. Being a low cost, wearable, non‐invasive and disposable sensor, it holds tremendous potential in healthcare technology and can be commercialized into a viable product for easy‐to‐use diagnostic purpose.
Teaching children with autism to request help with difficult tasks
Authors: Rodriguez Nicole M. , Levesque Megan A. , Cohrs Victoria L. , Niemeier Jessica J.
Published: September 2017

We taught three children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder to request help using an interrupted chain procedure during which we manipulated task materials such that the child was either incapable or capable of independently completing a link of a behavior chain. We initially observed undesirable generalization of requests for help during capable trials when teaching was introduced during incapable trials for two participants and to a lesser extent for the third participant. However, with repeated exposure to differential prompting and reinforcement across incapable and capable trials, differential responding was observed across EO‐present and EO‐absent trials for all three participants during both teaching sets and one generalization set that was never exposed to teaching procedures. These findings suggest that it is important to consider the antecedent conditions under which the response should occur when teaching children to request help.
Enantioseparation of nornicotine in tobacco by ultraperformance convergence chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Deng Huimin , Wang Ying , Bian Zhaoyang , Liu Shanshan , Fan Ziyan , Li Zhonghao , Yang Fei , Tang Gangling
Published: September 2017

Nornicotine, an alkaloid constituent of tobacco, is a precursor to the carcinogen N‐nitrosonornicotine that is produced during the curing and processing of tobacco. Accumulating evidence reveals that nornicotine enantiomers have different neurochemical and behavioral effects. In the present study, an accurate and rapid method was developed for the enantioseparation of (R)‐(+)‐nornicotine and (S)‐(−)‐nornicotine enantiomers in tobacco by ultra‐performance convergence chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Chromatographic conditions were investigated to achieve the optimal resolution of two enantiomers. Results indicated that (R)‐(+)‐nornicotine and (S)‐(−)‐nornicotine could be separated within 5 min when ammonium hydroxide was added into the cosolvent, and the best resolution (Rs = 4.76) was achieved on a immobilized cellulose tris‐(3,5‐dichlorophenylcarbamate) chiral stationary phase. The proposed method was validated and was finally applied to analyze the compositions of (R)‐(+)‐nornicotine and (S)‐(−)‐nornicotine in three typical types of tobaccos (flue‐cured, burley, and oriental). It was found that, enantiomer fraction of nornicotine (the proportion of (S)‐(−)‐nornicotine in the nornicotine pool) in burley tobacco samples was relatively high and constant compared with flue‐cured and oriental tobaccos. The effective and rapid enantioseparation of nornicotine may help the understanding of alkaloid metabolites in different tobacco varieties and may also benefit pharmacological studies of alkaloid enantiomers.
Weighted Gene Co‐Expression Network Analysis Identifies Gender Specific Modules and Hub Genes Related to Metabolism and Inflammation in Response to an Acute Lipid Challenge
Authors: Fatima Attia , Connaughton Ruth M. , Weiser Anna , Murphy Aoife M. , O'Grada Colm , Ryan Miriam , Brennan Lorraine , O'Gaora Peadar , Roche Helen M.
Published: September 2017

Scope

Inflammation is characteristic of diet‐related diseases including obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, biomarkers of inflammation that reflect the early stage metabolic derangements are not optimally sensitive. Lipid challenges elicit postprandial inflammatory and metabolic responses. Gender‐specific transcriptomic networks of the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) were constructed in response to a lipid challenge.

Methods and results

Eighty‐six adult males and females of comparable age, anthropometric, and biochemical profiles completed an oral lipid tolerance test (OLTT). PBMC transcriptome was profiled following OLTT. Weighted gene coexpression networks were constructed separately for males and females. Functional ontology analysis of network modules was performed and hub genes identified. Two modules of interest were identified in females–an "inflammatory" module and an "energy metabolism" module. NLRP3, which plays a central role in inflammation and STARD3 that is involved in cholesterol metabolism, were identified as hub genes for the respective modules.

Conclusion

The OLTT induced some gender‐specific correlations of gene coexpression network modules. In females, biological processes relating to energy metabolism and inflammation pathways were evident. This suggests a gender specific link between inflammation and energy metabolism in response to lipids. In contrast, G‐protein coupled receptor protein signaling pathway was common to both genders.