bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2‐Phenyloxazole‐4‐carboxamide as a Scaffold for Selective Inhibition of Human Monoamine Oxidase B
Authors: Di Paolo Maria L. , Christodoulou Michael S. , Calogero Alessandra M. , Pinzi Luca , Rastelli Giulio , Passarella Daniele , Cappelletti Graziella , Dalla Via Lisa
Published: July 2019

A series of 2‐phenyloxazoles bearing an amide group at position 4 were designed and synthesized for evaluation as potential inhibitors of human recombinant monoamine oxidases (hrMAOs). Results of kinetics experiments demonstrated that all compounds behave as competitive MAO inhibitors, with good selectivity toward the MAO‐B isoform. The most potent and selective derivatives are characterized by inhibition constant (Ki) values in the sub‐micromolar range and a good selectivity index (Ki MAO‐A/Ki MAO‐B>50). Some derivatives were also found to be able to inhibit MAO activity in nerve growth factor (NGF)‐differentiated PC12 cells, taken as a model of neuronal cells. In particular, 2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐N‐phenyloxazole‐4‐carboxamide (compound 4 a) may be a promising new scaffold, exerting the highest selectivity and inhibitory effect toward MAOs in NGF‐differentiated PC12 cell lysates, without compromising cell viability. Molecular docking analysis allowed a rationalization of the experimentally observed binding affinity and selectivity.
Using Evans Blue Dye to Determine Blood‐Brain Barrier Integrity in Rodents
Authors: Goldim Mariana Pereira de Souza , Della Giustina Amanda , Petronilho Fabricia
Published: July 2019

The blood‐brain barrier (BBB) is an active and selective barrier that shields the brain from endogenous and exogenous insults. Different stimuli may lead to the disruption of this barrier, including inflammation and trauma. Several methods are used to evaluate BBB disruption. The most widely used method is Evans blue (EB) dye extravasation. EB cannot normally pass through the BBB and thus its presence in brain tissue indicates alterations in permeability. This protocol details the steps of EB extravasation in rodents. Important aspects regarding critical steps and advantages are also provided. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
High Capacitive Energy Storage of Nest‐Like Porous Graphene Microspheres Electrode with High Mass Loading
Authors: Wang Xuejie , Song Xinyu , Li Shengping , Yu Zhiqing , Zhao Lu , Xiao Zhihua , Zhang Mengxuan , Xu Chenggen , Qi Chuanlei , Ma Xinlong , Gao Jinsen
Published: July 2019

Nest‐like porous graphene microspheres (NPGMs) are grown by using a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method in a fluidized bed reactor from methane and basic magnesium carbonate microspheres (synthesized by a stirring‐induced crystallization approach) as carbon source and template, respectively. The CVD‐derived NPGMs have a few‐layer structure and high electrical conductivity, as well as a three‐dimensional individual macroarchitecture accompanied with well‐developed pore channels and great structural integrity. As the electrode for a symmetric supercapacitor, the effect of different mass loadings for NPGMs‐based electrodes on the capacitive energy‐storage performance is investigated. Superior electrochemical properties with respect to gravimetric, areal, and total capacitances, rate capability, and durability are shown by the NPGMs‐based symmetric supercapacitors, even at mass loadings up to 10 mg cm−2. Moreover, the electrochemical behavior of the NPGMs‐based electrode is much superior to those of two‐dimensional lamella‐like graphene and commercial activated carbon.
Ground plane impact on quadrifilar helix antenna performance with respect to deployment heights
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad , Khan Asim Ali , Amin Muhammad , Asif Hafiz M. , Baig Sobia
Published: July 2019

Quadrifilar helix antenna (QHA) has its applications in satellite communications. This paper presents the performance optimisation of input and radiation characteristics of QHA in the presence of infinite and finite metallic ground planes. For the infinite ground plane, it has been observed that input parameters such as impedance and voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) are stable, and the antenna has broader half power beamwidth (HPBW). Smaller metallic platforms that act as finite ground planes produce better 3‐dB axial ratio beamwidth and boresight axial ratio. Deployment of QHA on smaller metallic platforms such as nanosatellites and CubeSats enhances the circularly polarised beamwidth of the antenna with improved boresight axial ratio. However, on large low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, stable input characteristics and broader HPBW have been achieved at the cost of narrow circularly polarised beamwidth and degraded boresight axial ratio.
Leishmania donovani and Pneumocystis jirovecii (carinii) diagnosed on bronchoalveolar lavage cytology in a liver transplant recipient with Cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Thakur Abha , Sarin Haimanti , Dhampalwar Swapnil , Saigal Sanjiv , Kakkar Sunita , Soin A. S.
Published: July 2019

Liver transplant recipients are prone to several infections, including lung infections, which can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology is a rapid and sensitive diagnostic tool to identify the etiologic agents. We report a rare case of a 24‐year‐old male, post Live donor liver transplantation for autoimmune chronic liver disease, who presented with cough, fever, weight loss, and cavitatory lesion in lung. BAL cytology revealed Leishmania donovani (LD) and Pneumocystis jirovecii/carinii (PCP). Cytomegalovirus deoxyribonucleic acid polymerase chain reaction (CMV DNA PCR) test showed markedly raised levels. Patient was put on treatment for these multiple infections and showed significant improvement. Thus, rapid diagnosis of infections through BAL cytology is crucial in transplant recipients to institute timely therapy and avoid undesirable empirical treatments. Moreover, this case highlights a rare finding of LD bodies along with PCP in BAL cytology.
Niche dimensionality and herbivory control stream algal biomass via shifts in guild composition, richness, and evenness
Authors: Passy Sophia I. , Larson Chad A.
Published: July 2019

We developed a framework for the hierarchical pathways of bottom‐up (niche dimensionality) and top‐down control (herbivory) on biomass of stream algae via changes in guild composition (relative abundance of low profile, high profile, and motile guilds), species richness, and evenness. We further tested (1) the contrasting predictions of resource competition theory vs. the benthic model of coexistence on how the number of added nutrients constrains species richness, (2) the relationship between species richness and evenness, and (3) the biodiversity–ecosystem‐function paradigm. Implementing a combination of field and lab experiments that manipulated for the first time in benthic algae herbivory and/or niche dimensionality, i.e., the number of added nutrients (NAN), including nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, and manganese, we made the following discoveries. First, important predictors of guild composition were herbivory (field) and NAN (lab); of richness, NAN (field) and NAN and guild composition (lab); of evenness, guild composition (field and lab) and herbivory (field); and of biomass, guild composition, NAN, and richness + evenness (field and lab). Herbivory increased the proportions of the low profile and motile guilds but decreased the proportion of the high profile guild. In the absence of grazing, greater proportions of the high profile guild resulted in elevated richness and biomass but diminished evenness, whereas in the presence of grazing, these relationships generally disappeared. Second, both experiments confirmed the prediction of the benthic model that species richness increases with NAN, a pattern inconsistent with resource competition theory. Third, supplementation with manganese and/or iron increased algal richness, indicating that micronutrients, which have generally been overlooked in stream ecology, added dimensions to the algal niche. Fourth, the richness–evenness relationship, observed only in the absence of herbivory, depended on the size of the species pool. It was positive at richness lower than 49 species (lab), implying complementarity and facilitation, while at higher richness (field and lab), this relationship was negative, consistent with negative interspecific interactions. Finally, the greater dependence of biomass production on guild composition and NAN than on richness and evenness suggests that more comprehensive, environmentally explicit, and trait‐based approaches are necessary for the study of the biodiversity–ecosystem‐function paradigm.
Measuring continuous compositional change using decline and decay in zeta diversity
Authors: McGeoch Melodie A. , Latombe Guillaume , Andrew Nigel R. , Nakagawa Shinichi , Nipperess David A. , Roigé Mariona , Marzinelli Ezequiel M. , Campbell Alexandra H. , Vergés Adriana , Thomas Torsten , Steinberg Peter D. , Selwood Katherine E. , Henriksen Marie V. , Hui Cang
Published: July 2019

Incidence, or compositional, matrices are generated for a broad range of research applications in biology. Zeta diversity provides a common currency and conceptual framework that links incidence‐based metrics with multiple patterns of interest in biology, ecology, and biodiversity science. It quantifies the variation in species (or OTU) composition of multiple assemblages (or cases) in space or time, to capture the contribution of the full suite of narrow, intermediate, and wide‐ranging species to biotic heterogeneity. Here we provide a conceptual framework for the application and interpretation of patterns of continuous change in compositional diversity using zeta diversity. This includes consideration of the survey design context, and the multiple ways in which zeta diversity decline and decay can be used to examine and test turnover in the identity of elements across space and time. We introduce the zeta ratio–based retention rate curve to quantify rates of compositional change. We illustrate these applications using 11 empirical data sets from a broad range of taxa, scales, and levels of biological organization—from DNA molecules and microbes to communities and interaction networks—including one of the original data sets used to express compositional change and distance decay in ecology. We show (1) how different sample selection schemes used during the calculation of compositional change are appropriate for different data types and questions, (2) how higher orders of zeta may in some cases better detect shifts and transitions, and (3) the relative roles of rare vs. common species in driving patterns of compositional change. By exploring the application of zeta diversity decline and decay, including the retention rate, across this broad range of contexts, we demonstrate its application for understanding continuous turnover in biological systems.
Breaking bad: When does polycentricity lead to maladaptation rather than adaptation?
Authors: Biddle Jennifer C. , Baehler Karen J.
Published: July 2019

Polycentric governance structures are often touted as part of the solution to overuse and degradation of natural resources. In theory, when multiple, overlapping decision centers work independently and in coordination, they contribute more than either monocentric or atomized governance arrangements to ensuring robust, adaptive social‐ecological systems (SESs). However, the degraded state of many municipal drinking water systems demonstrate Vincent Ostrom's observation that multilevel governance structure alone does not guarantee increased functionality. Two U.S. case studies drawn from opposite ends of the SES performance continuum provide insights into the differences between structural and functional features of polycentricity and the cross‐cutting conditions under which these features lead to adaptation or maladaptation. New York City's water system has served as an international model of sustainable, collaborative governance for several decades, whereas Flint, Michigan's water system achieved notoriety for a tragic string of errors and a pattern of neglectful governance in the mid‐2010s. Through process tracing, this article analyzes the pathways that began from a shared governance structure of polycentric federalism to starkly different decisions and outcomes in the two cities. The results highlight the dynamic and interactive nature of polycentricity, including how it can be functionally disabled when key factors converge across levels and scales: these include norms of quiescent rule enforcement, incentives that favor blame avoidance over problem solving, persistent power imbalances, large wealth inequalities, and deficits of social capital and leadership.
A normative perspective on the linguistic intergroup bias: How intragroup approval of ingroup members who use the linguistic intergroup bias perpetuates explicit intergroup bias
Authors: Assilaméhou‐Kunz Yvette , Postmes Tom , Testé Benoit
Published: July 2019

The present research examined from a normative perspective how intragroup normative processes regulate the consequences of the linguistic intergroup bias (LIB). Results of three studies supported our hypothesis that intragroup approval of an ingroup member who uses theLIBplays a key role in perpetuating pro‐ingroup bias. In Study 1, ingroup members who used pro‐ingroup (vs. pro‐outgroup)LIBelicited more intragroup approval and this effect was mediated by the perception of the speaker as being biased in favor of the ingroup. In Studies 2 and 3, intragroup approval (vs. disapproval) of an ingroup member who used theLIBenhanced the expression of pro‐ingroup bias. By providing the first demonstration of how theLIBrelates to intragroup normative processes, our studies highlight a new path by which theLIBhelps perpetuate intergroup bias.
Follow this formula for effective, efficient MBA program interviews
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: July 2019

Providing campus visits and interviews that feel personal to candidates, while ensuring that all of your time isn't eaten up doing said visits: It's a challenge that might sound familiar to you and is one that Jeremiah Nelson faced when he arrived at the Wake Forest University School of Business.
Seismic loss and damage in light‐frame wood buildings from sequences of induced earthquakes
Authors: Chase Robert E. , Liel Abbie B. , Luco Nicolas , Baird Bridger W.
Published: July 2019

Activities related to oil and gas production, especially deep disposal of wastewater, have led to sequences of induced earthquakes in the central United States. This study aims to quantify damage to and seismic losses for light‐frame wood buildings when subjected to sequences of induced, small to moderate magnitude, events. To conduct this investigation, one‐ and two‐story multifamily wood frame buildings are designed, and their seismic response dynamically simulated using three‐dimensional nonlinear models, subjected to ground motion sequences recorded in induced events. Damage is quantified through seismic losses, which are estimated using the FEMA P‐58 methodology. Results show that at levels of shaking experienced in recent earthquakes, minor damage, consisting of cracking of interior finishes and nonstructural damage to plumbing and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, is expected, which is consistent with observed damage in these events. The study also examines how expected losses and building fragility will accumulate and/or change over a sequence of earthquakes. Results indicate that damage quantified in terms of absorbed hysteretic energy tended to accumulate over the sequences; this damage corresponds to elongation or widening of cracks. However, fragility is not significantly altered by damage in a preceding event, meaning structures are not becoming more vulnerable due to existing damage. In addition, sequences of events do not change losses if the building is only repaired once at the end of the sequence, as the worsening of damage does not alter repair actions. If repairs are conducted after each event, though, total seismic losses can increase greatly from the sequence.
Challenges and approaches for production of a healthy and functional mayonnaise sauce
Authors: Mirzanajafi-Zanjani Mina , Yousefi Mohammad , Ehsani Ali
Published: July 2019

Mayonnaise is a semisolid oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsion which is made through the careful blending of oil, vinegar, egg yolk, and spices (especially mustard). In addition, mayonnaise traditionally contains 70%–80% oil, and egg yolk is a key ingredient contributing to its stability. Despite concerns about high cholesterol level in egg yolk, it is yet the most widely utilized emulsifying agent owing to its high emulsifying capacity. Today, the public knowledge about diet and health has been incremented, compelling the people to consume foodstuffs containing functional features. Thus, consumers, aware of the considerable influence of the diet on their health, demand nutritious and healthier food. Mayonnaise is usually cited by health‐related issues due to its high cholesterol and fat content. Many researchers have tried to replace fat, as well as egg yolk completely or partially; however, low‐fat mayonnaises require extra ingredients to keep the stability. In other words, each ingredient plays a specific role in textural and oxidative stability, and using alternative emulsifiers and fat replacers may affect the sensorial, textural, and antioxidant features of mayonnaise. Furthermore, mayonnaise, like other high‐fat foodstuffs, is vulnerable to auto‐oxidation. In addition to using fat replacers, mayonnaise is accompanied with bioactive ingredients to produce a healthy system. Therefore in this review, we gathered a quick summary of the ideas, including lowering the cholesterol and fat and using natural antioxidants, prebiotics, and probiotics in order to produce a healthy and functional mayonnaise sauce.
Volcanic succession, petrology, and geochemistry of the Sujiagou komatiite from the North China Craton
Authors: Yang Lihui , Tian Wei , Hou Guiting , Liu Shuwen , Wang Bin , Li Jie , Chen Mimi
Published: July 2019

The ~2.7‐Ga Taishan greenstone belt from the Eastern Block of the North China Craton has well‐exposed komatiite sections. The komatiite outcrops at Sujiagou have well‐preserved primary volcanic texture although they have experienced amphibolite‐facies metamorphism. Two komatiite lava flows are identified in the Sujiagou outcrops: “Flow Ι,” with a thickness of 55 m, is characterized by poly‐sutured crust at the top, spinifex texture in the middle, and olivine cumulates at the flow bottom. “Flow ΙΙ” consists of abundant pahoehoe lava lobes with no interstitial materials. These volcanic characteristics, as well as the interbedding with terrestrial sediments, suggest that the Sujiagou komatiite erupted in a subaerial continental environment. The olivine–chromite geothermometer gives peak metamorphic temperatures from 684°C to 764°C. Phase equilibria modelling suggests that the mineral proportions and mineral compositions are consistent with a retrograde temperature of ~488°C, at which the komatiite would have low olivine Fo (79–89) and high bulk‐rock Mg# (83–90). Linear mixing of the in situ trace element compositions of the metamorphic olivine, augite, tremolite, serpentine, and chlorite from Sujiagou komatiite samples can reproduce the trace elements of representative komatiite compositions, suggesting that later metamorphism and fluid–rock interactions played key roles in trace element variations in the bulk‐rock komatiite samples. These results also imply that the “arc signature” of the Sujiagou komatiite may be an overprint from posteruption fluid alteration rather than a primary subduction geochemical feature. Therefore, the Sujiagou komatiites may belong to a part of the global plume‐related greenstone belts at ~2.7 Ga.
SIRPα deficiency accelerates the pathologic process in models of Parkinson disease
Authors: Wang Jin , Ding Xin , Wu Xiangyu , Liu Jing , Zhou Rui , Wei Pingxuan , Zhang Qipeng , Zhang Chenyu , Zen Ke , Li Liang
Published: July 2019

Microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation is a crucial pathophysiological contributor to several aging‐related neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD). During the process of aging or stress, microglia undergoes several transcriptional and morphological changes that contribute to aberrant immunological responses, which is known as priming. Key molecules involved in the process, however, are not clearly defined. In the present study, we have demonstrated that level of microglial signal regulatory protein α (SIRPα) decreased during aging or inflammatory challenge. Functional studies suggested that downregulation of SIRPα released the brake of inflammatory response in microglia, revealing an inhibitory effect of SIRPα in microglial activation. Furthermore, we assessed the impact of SIRPα downregulation in PD pathogenesis using both cell culture and animal models. Our results showed that SIRPα deficiency resulted in abnormal inflammatory response and phagocytic activity of microglia, which in turn, further accelerated degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in 1‐Methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine or lipopolysaccharides mice models. These results collectively demonstrate that dysregulation of SIRPα signaling in microglia during aging plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of age‐related neurological disorders such as PD.
Evaluation of the spatial variability in the major resting‐state networks across human brain functional atlases
Authors: Doucet Gaelle E. , Lee Won Hee , Frangou Sophia
Published: July 2019

The human brain is intrinsically organized into resting‐state networks (RSNs). Currently, several human brain functional atlases are used to define the spatial constituents of these RSNs. However, there are significant concerns about interatlas variability. In response, we undertook a quantitative comparison of the five major RSNs (default mode [DMN], salience, central executive, sensorimotor, and visual networks) across currently available brain functional atlases (n = 6) in which we demonstrated that (a) similarity between atlases was modest and positively linked to the size of the sample used to construct them; (b) across atlases, spatial overlap among major RSNs ranged between 17 and 76% (mean = 39%), which resulted in variability in their functional connectivity; (c) lower order RSNs were generally spatially conserved across atlases; (d) among higher order RSNs, the DMN was the most conserved across atlases; and (e) voxel‐wise flexibility (i.e., the likelihood of a voxel to change network assignment across atlases) was high for subcortical regions and low for the sensory, motor and medial prefrontal cortices, and the precuneus. In order to facilitate RSN reproducibility in future studies, we provide a new freely available Consensual Atlas of REsting‐state Networks, based on the most reliable atlases.
Stepwise functional connectivity reveals altered sensory‐multimodal integration in medication‐naïve adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Pretus Clara , Marcos‐Vidal Luis , Martínez‐García Magdalena , Picado Marisol , Ramos‐Quiroga Josep Antoni , Richarte Vanesa , Castellanos Francisco X. , Sepulcre Jorge , Desco Manuel , Vilarroya Óscar , Carmona Susanna
Published: July 2019

Neuroimaging studies indicate that children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) present alterations in several functional networks of the sensation‐to‐cognition spectrum. These alterations include functional overconnectivity within sensory regions and underconnectivity between sensory regions and neural hubs supporting higher order cognitive functions. Today, it is unknown whether this same pattern of alterations persists in adult patients with ADHD who had never been medicated for their condition. The aim of the present study was to assess whether medication‐naïve adults with ADHD presented alterations in functional networks of the sensation‐to‐cognition spectrum. Thirty‐one medication‐naïve adults with ADHD and twenty‐two healthy adults underwent resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI). Stepwise functional connectivity (SFC) was used to characterize the pattern of functional connectivity between sensory seed regions and the rest of the brain at direct, short, intermediate, and long functional connectivity distances, thus covering the continuum from the sensory input to the neural hubs supporting higher order cognitive functions. As compared to controls, adults with ADHD presented increased SFC degree within primary sensory regions and decreased SFC degree between sensory seeds and higher order integration nodes. In addition, they exhibited decreased connectivity degree between sensory seeds and regions of the default‐mode network. Consistently, the higher the score in clinical severity scales the lower connectivity degree between seed regions and the default mode network.
Interleukin‐32 Contributes to Human Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Dali‐Youcef Nassim , Vix Michel , Costantino Federico , El‐Saghire Houssein , Lhermitte Benoit , Callari Cosimo , D’Agostino Jacopo , Perretta Silvana , Paveliu Stefan , Gualtierotti Monica , Dumeny Edith , Oudot Marine A. , Jaulin Amélie , Dembélé Doulaye , Zeisel Mirjam B. , Tomasetto Catherine , Baumert Thomas F. , Doffoël Michel
Published: July 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic disorder due to increased accumulation of fat in the liver and in many cases to enhanced inflammation. Although the contribution of inflammation in the pathogenesis of NAFLD is well established, the cytokines that are involved and how they influence liver transformation are still poorly characterized. In addition, with other modifiers, inflammation influences NAFLD progression to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, demonstrating the need to find new molecular targets with potential future therapeutic applications. We investigated gene signatures in 38 liver biopsies from patients with NAFLD and obesity who had received bariatric surgery and compared these to 10 control patients who had received a cholecystectomy, using DNA microarray technology. A subset of differentially expressed genes was then validated on a larger cohort of 103 patients who had received bariatric surgery for obesity; data were thoroughly analyzed in terms of correlations with NAFLD pathophysiological parameters. Finally, the impact of a specific cytokine, interleukin‐32 (IL32), was addressed on primary human hepatocytes (PHHs). Transcript analysis revealed an up‐regulation of proinflammatory cytokines IL32, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 9 (CXCL9), and CXCL10 and of ubiquitin D (UBD), whereas down‐regulation of insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) and hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1 (HPRT1) was reported in patients with NAFLD. Moreover, IL32, which is the major deregulated gene, correlated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, NAFLD activity score (NAS), aminotransferases (alanine aminotransferase [ALAT] and aspartate aminotransferase [ASAT]), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) index in patients. Consistent with an instrumental role in the pathophysiology of NAFLD, treatment of control human hepatocytes with recombinant IL32 leads to insulin resistance, a hallmark metabolic deregulation in NAFLD hepatocytes. Conclusion:
IL32 has a critical role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD and could be considered as a therapeutic target in patients.
Religious identity in the workplace: A systematic review, research agenda, and practical implications
Authors: Héliot YingFei , Gleibs Ilka H. , Coyle Adrian , Rousseau Denise M. , Rojon Céline
Published: July 2019

We conducted a systematic review of relevant literature to address how religious and occupational identities relate to each other in the workplace. We identified 53 relevant publications for analysis and synthesis. Studies addressed value differences associated with religion and occupation, identity tensions, unmet expectations, and the connection of religious identity to well‐being and work outcomes. Key variables in the connection between religious and occupational identities included personal preferences, the fit between religious identity and job‐related concerns, and the organization's policies, practices, and expectations. We highlight the personal and organizational consequences of being able to express religious identity at work and the conditions that promote high congruence between religious identity and its expression in the workplace. From these findings, we develop a research agenda and offer recommendations for management practice that focus on support for expression of religious identity at work while maintaining a broader climate of inclusion.
Effect of viscous dissipation on finding dual solutions for mixed convection boundary layer flow for nanofluid
Authors: Maji Srimanta , Sahu Akshaya K.
Published: July 2019

The effect of viscous dissipation on mixed convection boundary layer flow for Ag‐water nanofluid under steady‐state condition has been studied numerically for both the buoyancy assisting and opposing flows over a vertical semi‐infinite flat plate. A new co‐ordinate system has been introduced to transform the governing partial differential equations (PDEs) to facilitate the numerical calculations. Then, the local similarity method has been used for approximating the transformed PDEs to ordinary differential equations. Further, the quasi‐linearization method has been introduced to linearize the nonlinear equations and then numerical integration has been carried out using implicit trapezoidal rule along with the principle of superposition. For higher Pr, the coupled differential equations behave like stiff differential equations. To overcome the situation, orthonormalization process has been introduced. The effects of solid volume fraction of nanoparticles , the mixed convection parameter , Prandtl number , and Eckart number have been analyzed on the heat transfer and flow characteristics. It has been observed that the dual solutions are obtained for buoyancy opposing flow only and the range of dual solutions have become wider with the increases in . Further, nanofluids enhance the heat transfer process as compared to conventional heat transfer fluids . Moreover, the addition of viscous dissipation causes less heat transfer in the boundary.
Understanding the influence of librarians cognitive frames on institutional repository innovation and implementation
Authors: Utulu Samuel C. Avemaria , Ngwenyama Ojelanki
Published: July 2019

An institutional repository (IR) is an information system (IS) that has the potential to promote open access to scientific knowledge and the visibility and reputation of scholars. The small number of universities in developing countries that have successfully innovated and implemented an IR hampers the actualization of these benefits. This situation calls for effort toward understanding the factors responsible. We used the snowball sampling technique to select 45 academic librarians from three university libraries in Nigeria that were involved in IR innovation. Data were collected through in‐depth interviews and participatory observation for 15 months. Thematic data analyses show that the relationships between academic librarians' IR innovation cognitive frames (belief, scripts, and resistance routines) influence IR innovation outcomes. The result is a research model that explicates how the relationships between academic librarians' cognitive frames and internal functioning of libraries constitute IR innovation barriers to IR innovation and implementation.
MicroRNAs as potential therapeutic targets to predict responses to oxaliplatin in colorectal cancer: From basic evidence to therapeutic implication
Authors: Moradi Marjaneh Reyhaneh , Khazaei Majid , Ferns Gordon A. , Avan Amir , Aghaee‐Bakhtiari Seyed Hamid
Published: July 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies with poor prognosis. Oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy is an important treatment for CRC; however, the cells develop resistance to therapy. The mechanisms underlying oxaliplatin resistance are complex and unclear. There is increasing evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) (i.e., miR‐34a, miR‐143, miR‐153, miR‐27a, miR‐218, and miR‐520) play an essential role in tumorigenesis and chemotherapy resistance, by targeting various cellular and molecular pathways (i.e., PI3K/Akt/Wnt, EMT, p53, p21, and ATM) that are involved in the pathogenesis of CRC. Identifying the miRNAs that are involved in chemo‐resistance, and their function, may help as a potential therapeutic option for treatment of CRC or as potential prognostic biomarker. Here, we summarized the clinical impact of miRNAs that have critical roles in the development of resistance to oxaliplatin in CRC.
Emerging roles of exosomal miRNAs in breast cancer drug resistance
Authors: Najminejad Hamid , Kalantar Seyed Mehdi , Abdollahpour‐Alitappeh Meghdad , Karimi Mohammad Hossein , Seifalian Alexander M. , Gholipourmalekabadi Mazaher , Sheikhha Mohammad Hasan
Published: July 2019

Breast cancer (BC), as a heterogeneous disease, is considered as one of the most common malignancies in women worldwide. The resistance of BC cells to therapeutic agents has remained a big challenge in the treatment of BC patients. Some factors such as cytokines, exosomes, and soluble receptors were recognized as crucial agents involved in the development of drug resistance. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the drug resistance is still unknown. There is growing evidence to support the emerging roles of exosomes, especially exosomal miRNAs, in tumor initiation, angiogenesis, proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Therefore, identification of BC‐specific exosomal miRNAs and their underlying mechanisms would be helpful to define sensitivity to therapeutic drugs and establish an appropriate therapeutic strategy. This review focuses mainly on the roles of exosomal miRNAs and their associated mechanisms in the resistance of BC cells to therapeutic agents, as well as critically examines the potential of these macromolecules as a treatment biomarker in BC patients.
Excluding employer‐provided meals
Authors: Dennis‐Escoffier Shirley
Published: July 2019

In a recently issued Technical Advice Memorandum (TAM), the Internal Revenue Service concluded that the value of employer‐provided meals cannot be excluded from employee income under the “convenience of employer” test unless the employer establishes a “substantial noncompensatory business reason” for providing the meals. To qualify for exclusion, employers must show a clear link between that reason and the business need to provide the meals to employees as well as demonstrating that they are following and enforcing policies that require furnishing those meals. This article discusses the underlying tax authorities and the impact of the recently released TAM. Finally, recommendations are provided for employers who currently provide, or plan to provide, free meals to their employees on premises to ensure they preserve the tax‐free treatment of this employee benefit.
Patisiran Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, and Exposure‐Response Analyses in the Phase 3 APOLLO Trial in Patients With Hereditary Transthyretin‐Mediated (hATTR) Amyloidosis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Goel Varun , Attarwala Husain , Sweetser Marianne T. , Clausen Valerie A. , Robbie Gabriel J.
Published: July 2019

Hereditary transthyretin‐mediated (hATTR) amyloidosis is an inherited, rapidly progressive, life‐threatening disease caused by deposition of abnormal transthyretin protein. Patisiran is an RNA interference therapeutic comprising a novel, small interfering ribonucleic acid (ALN‐18328) formulated in a lipid nanoparticle targeted to inhibit hepatic transthyretin protein synthesis. The lipid nanoparticle also contains 2 novel lipid excipients (DLin‐MC3‐DMA and PEG2000‐C‐DMG). Here we report patisiran pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and exposure‐response analyses from the phase 3 APOLLO trial, in which patients with hATTR amyloidosis with polyneuropathy were randomized 2:1 to receive patisiran 0.3 mg/kg or placebo intravenously every 3 weeks over 18 months. In patisiran‐treated patients, mean maximum reduction in serum transthyretin level from baseline was 87.8%. Patisiran PK exposure was stable following chronic dosing. There were no meaningful differences in PK exposure, serum transthyretin reduction, and efficacy (change from baseline in modified Neuropathy Impairment Score+7) across all subgroups analyzed (age, sex, race, body weight, genotype status of valine‐to‐methionine mutation at position 30 [V30M] and non‐V30M, prior use of tetramer stabilizers, mild/moderate renal impairment, and mild hepatic impairment). transthyretin reduction and efficacy were similar across the interpatient PK exposure range for ALN‐18328. There was no trend in the incidence of adverse events or serious adverse events across the interpatient PK exposure range for all 3 analytes. Incidence of antidrug antibodies was low (3.4%) and transient, with no impact on PK, PD, efficacy, or safety. The patisiran dosing regimen of 0.3 mg/kg every 3 weeks is appropriate for all patients with hATTR amyloidosis.
Assisted HIV partner services training in three sub‐Saharan African countries: facilitators and barriers to sustainable approaches
Authors: Han Hannah , Myers Serene , Mboh Khan Eveline , Masyuko Sarah J , Paredes Zulmira , Chimoun Francois T , Mudender Florindo , Wamuti Beatrice M , Nambu Winifred , Kemunto Emily , Mugambi Mary , Kariithi Edward , Golden Matthew R , Tih Pius M , Welty Thomas , Farquhar Carey
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Healthcare worker training is essential to successful implementation of assisted partner services (aPS), which aims to improve HIV testing and linkage‐to‐care outcomes for previously unidentified HIV‐positive individuals. Cameroon, Kenya and Mozambique are three African countries that have implemented aPS programmes and are working to bring those programmes to scale. In this paper, we present and compare different aPS training strategies implemented by these three countries, and discuss facilitators and barriers associated with implementation of aPS training in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Discussion

aPS training programmes in Cameroon, Kenya and Mozambique share the following components: the development of comprehensive and interactive training curricula, recruitment of qualified trainees and trainers with intimate knowledge of the community served, continuous training, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation activities. Cameroon and Kenya were able to engage various stakeholders early on, establishing multilateral coalitions that facilitated attainment of long‐term buy‐in from the local governments. Ministries of Health and various implementing partners are often included in strategic planning and delivery of training curricula to ensure sustainability of the training programmes. Kenya and Mozambique have integrated aPS training into the national HTS guidelines, which are being rolled out nationwide by the Ministries of Health and implementing partners. Continual revision of training curricula to reflect the country context, as well as ongoing monitoring and evaluation, have also been identified as key facilitators to sustain aPS training programmes. Some of the barriers to scale‐up and sustainability of aPS training include limited funding and resources for training and scale‐up and shortage of aPS providers to facilitate on‐the‐job mentorship.

Conclusions

These three programmes demonstrate that aPS training can be implemented and scaled up in sub‐Saharan Africa. As countries plan for initial implementation or national scale‐up of aPS services, they will need to establish government buy‐in, expand funding sources, address the shortage of staff and resources to provide aPS and on‐the‐job mentorship, and continuously collect data to evaluate and improve aPS training plans. Development of national standards for aPS training, empowered healthcare providers, increased government commitment, and sustained funding for aPS services and training will be crucial for successful aPS implementation.
Assisted partner notification services for patients receiving HIV care and treatment in an HIV clinic in Nairobi, Kenya: a qualitative assessment of barriers and opportunities for scale‐up
Authors: Monroe‐Wise Aliza , Maingi Mutiti Peter , Kimani Harun , Moraa Hellen , Bukusi David E , Farquhar Carey
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Identifying HIV‐positive individuals is increasingly recognized as one of the most important and most challenging of the UNAIDS 90‐90‐90 goals. Assisted partner notification services (aPNS) involves tracing and offering HIV testing to partners of HIV‐positive individuals, and is effective and safe when provided to newly diagnosed HIV‐positive patients. Voluntary aPNS is now part of the World Health Organization's guidelines for HIV prevention and care. However, uptake of aPNS is significantly lower among adults with established HIV infection already engaged in care compared to newly diagnosed individuals. We sought to describe barriers encountered and potential opportunities to providing aPNS to established patients living with HIV.

Methods

We conducted focus group discussions and in‐depth interviews at Nairobi's largest public HIV clinic in April to May 2016 to elucidate barriers to and opportunities for aPNS among established patients engaged in HIV care. Participants included HIV‐positive adults in care, their partners, and healthcare workers (HCWs). Qualitative data analysis took a grounded theory approach.

Results

Barriers to aPNS fell under three main categories. Fear of disclosure to partners included concerns over relationship repercussions, loss of trust, blame and violence. Stigma and discrimination were described in the healthcare setting, at church and in general society. Participants described difficulties approaching communication, including cultural barriers and differences in education. For almost every barrier a potential solution was also identified, and a barrier‐opportunity relationship emerged. Opportunities included using couples testing centres to aid in disclosure, focusing on the ambiguous introduction of the infection, and sensitization of HCWs and community leaders.

Conclusions

aPNS among established HIV patients is associated with different barriers and opportunities than aPNS among newly diagnosed patients, and HCWs should build their capacity to support aPNS in this population. There is a strong need for increased training and sensitization on the use of aPNS in different circumstances and for different clients, taking into consideration factors such as timing of partner notification, characteristics of the relationship and duration of knowledge discordance. The overall success of this intervention among populations living with HIV may rely on customization of services and key messages to meet the patients’ specific needs.
Sustained high HIV case‐finding through index testing and partner notification services: experiences from three provinces in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mahachi Nyikadzino , Muchedzi Auxilia , Tafuma Taurayi A , Mawora Peter , Kariuki Liz , Semo Bazghina‐werq , Bateganya Moses H , Nyagura Tendai , Ncube Getrude , Merrigan Mike B , Chabikuli Otto N , Mpofu Mulamuli
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Several countries in southern Africa have made significant progress towards reaching the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS goal of ensuring that 90% of people living with HIV are aware of their status. In Zimbabwe, progress towards this “first 90” was estimated at 73% in 2016. To reach the remaining people living with HIV who have undiagnosed infection, the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care has been promoting index testing and partner notification services (PNS). We describe the implementation of index testing and PNS under the Zimbabwe HIV Care and Treatment (ZHCT) project and the resulting uptake, HIV positivity rate and links to HIV treatment.

Methods

The ZHCT project has been implemented since March 2016, covering a total of 12 districts in three provinces. To assess the project's performance on index testing, we extracted data on HIV testing from the district health information system (DHIS 2) from March 2016 to May 2018, validated it using service registers and calculated monthly HIV positivity rates using Microsoft Excel. Data were disaggregated by district, province, sex and service delivery point. We used SPSS to assess for statistical differences in paired monthly HIV positivity rates by sex, testing site, and province.

Results

The average HIV positivity rate rose from 10% during the first six months of implementation to more than 30% by August 2016 and was sustained above 30% through May 2018. The overall facility HIV positivity rate was 4.1% during the same period. The high HIV positivity rate was achieved for both males and females (mean monthly HIV positivity rate of 31.3% for males and 33.7% for females), with females showing significantly higher positivity compared to males (p < 0.001). The ZHCT mean monthly HIV positivity rate from index testing (32.6%) was significantly higher than that achieved through provider‐initiated testing and counselling and other facility HIV testing modalities (4.1%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The ZHCT project has demonstrated successes in implementing index testing and PNS by attaining a high HIV positivity rate sustained over the study period. As the country moves towards HIV epidemic control, index testing and PNS are critical strategies for targeted HIV case identification.
Can Weightbearing Computed Tomography Scans Be Used to Diagnose Subtalar Joint Instability? A Cadaver Study
Authors: Krähenbühl Nicola , Burssens Arne , Davidson Nathan P. , Allen Chelsea McCarty , Henninger Heath B. , Saltzman Charles L. , Barg Alexej
Published: July 2019

Chronic hindfoot instability is a frequent problem that includes the ankle and/or the subtalar joint. While ankle joint instability can be diagnosed clinically, accurate assessment of the subtalar joint remains elusive. This study's purpose was to assess the ability of weightbearing computed tomography (CT) scans to detect subtalar joint instability. Seven pairs of fresh frozen male cadavers (tibial plateau to toe‐tip) were tested. A radiolucent frame held specimens in a plantigrade position while non‐weightbearing and weightbearing CT scans (with and without torque application) were taken. First, intact ankles (Native) were scanned. Second, one specimen from each pair underwent interosseous talo‐calcaneal ligament (ITCL) transection, while the contralateral underwent calcaneo‐fibular ligament (CFL) transection. Third, the remaining intact ITCL or CFL was transected. Finally, the deltoid ligament was transected in all ankles. Eight radiographic measurements were performed to assess the congruency of the subtalar joint on digitally reconstructed radiographs and single CT images. Axial loading did not impact most measurements, whereas torque did impact most measurements. Radiographic measurements performed at the subtalar joint level were more reliable and better predictors for subtalar joint instability compared with measurements performed at the ankle joint level. While torque application is crucial to identify subtalar joint instability, axial load application should be avoided. Measurements to assess the subtalar joint stability should primarily be performed at the subtalar joint level rather than at the ankle joint level when using weightbearing CT scans. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2457–2465, 2019