bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
24π Core‐Modified Nonfused Pentaphyrin with Möbius Aromaticity
Authors: Ghosh Arindam , Dash Syamasrit , Srinivasan A. , Sahu Mahaprasad S. R. , Suresh Cherumuttathu H. , Chandrashekar Tavarekere K.
Published: August 2018

Syntheses of core‐modified 24π pentaphyrin 7 and 20π homoporphyrin 8 are reported. The freebase form of 7 exhibits optical and 1H NMR spectroscopic behavior corresponding to a 4nπ nonaromatic topology at 298 K. However, upon lowering the temperature to 188 K, 7 exhibits weak aromaticity because of a small conformational change. Protonation of the imine pyrrolic nitrogen atoms results in sharpening of the absorption band with more than 100 nm red shift and two‐fold increase in ϵ values. The 1H NMR spectra show large shielding and deshielding of specific protons accompanied by twisting of pyrrole and thiophene rings from the mean plane of the macrocycle. These observations suggest a major structural change upon protonation. The single‐crystal X‐ray structure of protonated 7 a reveals a severe twisting of the macrocycle, especially at the ethene bridge, and the two thiophene rings adjacent to the ethene bridge are pointed above and below the plane of the ethene bridge (49.07° and 49.08°). The nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) values calculated at the center of the macrocycle for the freebase and protonated derivatives of 7 a and 7 b are −5.6, −8.3 ppm and −5.3, −8.4 ppm, respectively. The anisotropy‐induced current density (AICD) plots suggest a clockwise circulation of π electrons. Taken together, the changes occurring in the optical spectra, 1H NMR spectra, single‐crystal X‐ray structure and NICS calculation reflect a Möbius aromatic topology for protonated 7. However, the homoporphyrin 8 remains nonaromatic both in the freebase and protonated form.
KnowVolution Campaign of an Aryl Sulfotransferase Increases Activity toward Cellobiose
Authors: Islam Shohana , Laaf Dominic , Infanzón Belén , Pelantová Helena , Davari Mehdi D. , Jakob Felix , Křen Vladimír , Elling Lothar , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: August 2018

Sulfated polysaccharides such as cellulose can mimic the functionalities of pathophysiologically important glycosaminoglycans. Enzymatic sulfation offers a green chemistry route to selective (mono)sulfation of oligosaccharides (e.g., cellobiose as a building block of cellulose) in aqueous solution, at ambient temperature, and high chemoselectivity. Here, we report the first KnowVolution campaign for the aryl sulfotransferase B (ASTB) from Desulfitobacterium hafniense to advance ASTB toward a synthetically attractive biocatalyst. The generated final recombination variant (ASTB‐M5) carries two amino acid substitutions (Leu446Pro and Val579Lys) leading to an up to 7.6‐fold increase in specific activity (6.15 U mg−1) that was obtained with one round of KnowVolution. Mass spectrometry analysis confirmed a monosulfated product of cellobiose and structure elucidation by NMR confirmed the sulfation at the positions C‐3 or C‐4 of GlcNAc‐linker‐tBoc as opposed to the preferred C‐6 by chemical means. Computational analysis suggested an important role of Leu446Pro in substrate‐binding and recognized Val579Lys as a distal substitution.
Do clinical experience, formal cognitive behavioural therapy training, adherence, and competence predict outcome in cognitive behavioural therapy for anxiety disorders in youth?
Authors: Fauskanger Bjaastad Jon , Henningsen Wergeland Gro Janne , Mowatt Haugland Bente Storm , Gjestad Rolf , Havik Odd E. , Heiervang Einar R. , Öst Lars‐Göran
Published: August 2018

Objective

The aim was to investigate whether clinical experience, formal cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) training, adherence, and competence predict outcome in CBT for anxiety disorders in youth.

Method

Videotapes (N = 181) from the sessions in a randomized controlled effectiveness trial (Wergeland et al., 2014, Behaviour Research and Therapy, 57, 1–12) comprising youth (N = 182, M age = 11.5 years) with mixed anxiety disorders were assessed for treatment adherence and competence using the Competence and Adherence Scale for CBT for anxiety disorders in youth (Bjaastad et al., 2016, Psychological Assessment, 28, 908–916). Therapists' (N = 17) clinical experience and educational background were assessed. Participants completed a diagnostic interview (Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule, child and parent versions) and an anxiety symptom measure (Spence Children's Anxiety Scale, child and parent versions) at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

Higher therapist adherence was related to better treatment outcomes, whereas number of years of clinical experience and competence was related to worse outcomes. However, these findings were not consistent across informants and the time points for the assessments. Interaction effects suggested that competence among therapists with formal CBT training was related to better patient outcomes.

Conclusions

Therapist adherence, competence, and clinical experience are associated with outcomes of manualized CBT for youth anxiety disorders, but mixed findings indicate the need for more research in this area.
New directions in whole‐school restorative justice implementation
Authors: González Thalia , Sattler Heather , Buth Annalise J.
Published: August 2018

Research on school‐based restorative justice demonstrates that whole‐school interventions are the most effective for improving student outcomes. Despite rapid growth of restorative justice, few studies capture more than the first stage of implementation. This article aims to fill this gap by presenting a multiyear case study of a small urban high school (2011–2018). The whole‐school model explores new directions for the field by placing theory and practice directly into academic curriculum. Further, it democratizes restorative justice as students assume lead roles as practitioners, a departure from the dominant model in schools where restorative approaches are developed and led by adults.
Jitter definition, measurement, generation, analysis, and decomposition
Authors: Bidaj Klodjan , Begueret Jean‐Baptiste , Deroo Jerome
Published: August 2018

In high‐speed serial links, the data rates reach the multigigabits per second, and continue to increase. Jitter is 1 of the most important parameters used to characterize high‐speed serial link performances. Generating white and colored noise synthetic jitter patterns would allow to better analyze the effect of jitter in a system for design verification. The standard organizations give separated budgets for random and deterministic jitter. Being able to model the phase noise of the different components of SerDes, generating corresponding time jitter, and decomposing it into deterministic and random jitter would help designers to better specify future SerDes systems. In our knowledge, there has been proposed no other study until today presenting a complete tutorial about jitter, its definition, its relation with phase noise, how to generate different white or colored noise patterns, and how to decompose random from deterministic jitter. This paper presents for the first time a complete study about jitter, by giving its definition, its relation with phase noise, and information on how to measure the jitter in the frequency and time domain. Furthermore, a new method for generating Gaussian distribution synthetic jitter patterns from colored noise profiles is presented. A novel technique of jitter decomposition into random and deterministic jitter is given. This technique is validated with generated and measured jitter patterns.
Development of the Cyclic Reciprocal Derivative Chronopotentiometry with Alternating Current of Different Frequencies
Authors: Lut Helen , Galagan Rostislav , Petrova Tatyana , Karaush Nataliya , Minaev Boris
Published: August 2018

We report on the development of the cyclic reciprocal derivative chronopotentiometry (CRDC) method using the sinusoidal alternating current of different frequencies. The development consists of the transformation of the initial dependence E=f(t) to the form dq/dE=f(E) through the intermediate function dE/dt=f(E). The modificated CRDC method allows to observe the structurization of the peaks in the plot of catechol, alizarin and hematoxylin oxidation processes. The degree of structuring strongly depends on the selected frequency. This define the intermediate stage of the radical formation that is not observed in the traditional cyclic voltammetry.
Design and experimental analysis of a vapor compression heat pump combined with double‐stage forced‐circulation evaporators
Authors: Lin Jingxiang , Qin Guoliang , Jia Cheng
Published: August 2018

Thermal distillation systems are widely used in the evaporation concentration industry, and the steam is the heating medium of these systems. However, due to the low density of the steam, the volume of equipment and piping is large. Especially in the mechanical vapor recompression (MVR) systems, high impeller exit line speed often occurs in steam compressors, which will cause compressor blades failure easily. In order to solve this problem, an experimental system called a vapor compression heat pump combined with double‐stage forced‐circulation evaporators (VCHP‐FCE) was developed. The system incorporates the refrigerant, R‐22, which offers an energy recycling benefit. R22 is used as the heat resource and has a higher energy‐carrying ability per unit volume than steam. The advantages relative to traditional thermal distillation system include a smaller device size, compact structure and no need for steam resource. Experimental facilities were established to analyze the thermal parameters and performance of the proposed system. The preheating temperature, which was correlated with the refrigerant's evaporation temperature, was the decisive factor affecting the system. A positive correlation was identified between the system's water production rate and the preheating temperature. Based on the first and second laws of thermodynamics, we analyzed the energy balance and the exergy loss of the system. The proportion of energy loss in each unit and the complete system exergy efficiency as a function of the environmental temperature were determined, which together indicated directions for system improvement.
Subglacial drumlins and englacial fractures at the surge‐type glacier, Múlajökull, Iceland
Authors: Finlayson Andrew , Phillips Emrys , Benediktsson Ívar Örn , Zoet Lucas K. , Iverson Neal R. , Everest Jez
Published: August 2018

The interaction between drumlins and overriding glacier ice is not well studied, largely due to the difficulty of identifying and accessing suitable active subglacial environments. The surge‐type glacier Múlajökull, in central Iceland, overlies a known field of actively forming drumlins and therefore provides a rare opportunity to investigate the englacial structures that have developed in association with ice flow over the subglacial drumlins. In this study detailed ground‐penetrating radar surveys are combined with field observations to identify clear sets of up‐glacier and down‐glacier dipping fractures at Múlajökull's margin. These are interpreted as conjugate shear planes or P‐ and R‐type Reidel shears that developed and filled with saturated sediment derived from the glacier bed, during a previous surge. The fracture sets exhibit focused spatial distributions that are influenced by the subglacial topography. In particular, down‐glacier dipping fractures are strongly focused over drumlin stoss slopes. These fractures, although well developed at depth, were mostly unable to transmit basal water and sediment up to the glacier surface during the surge cycle. In contrast, up‐glacier dipping fractures formed over drumlin lee sides and in more gently sloping swales, and more frequently connected to the glacier surface, providing a pathway for the evacuation of basal water and water‐saturated sediment. The study suggests that the subglacial drumlins under Múlajökull's margin have influenced the nature and distribution of englacial fractures, which could potentially contribute to spatial variations in basal water pressure during a surge. BGS © UKRI 2018
Particle transport mechanics and induced seismic noise in steep flume experiments with accelerometer‐embedded tracers
Authors: Gimbert Florent , Fuller Brian M. , Lamb Michael P. , Tsai Victor C. , Johnson Joel P. L.
Published: August 2018

Recent advances in fluvial seismology have provided solid observational and theoretical evidence that near‐river seismic ground motion may be used to monitor and quantify coarse sediment transport. However, inversions of sediment transport rates from seismic observations have not been fully tested against independent measurements, and thus have unknown but potentially large uncertainties. In the present study, we provide the first robust test of existing theory by conducting dedicated sediment transport experiments in a flume laboratory under fully turbulent and rough flow conditions. We monitor grain‐scale physics with the use of ‘smart rocks’ that consist of accelerometers embedded into manufactured rocks, and we quantitatively link bedload mechanics and seismic observations under various prescribed flow and sediment transport conditions. From our grain‐scale observations, we find that bedload grain hop times are widely distributed, with impacts being on average much more frequent than predicted by existing saltation models. Impact velocities are observed to be a linear function of average downstream cobble velocities, and both velocities show a bed‐slope dependency that is not represented in existing saltation models. Incorporating these effects in an improved bedload‐induced seismic noise model allows sediment flux to be inverted from seismic noise within a factor of two uncertainty. This result holds over nearly two orders of magnitude of prescribed sediment fluxes with different sediment sizes and channel‐bed slopes, and particle–particle collisions observed at the highest investigated rates are found to have negligible effect on the generated seismic power. These results support the applicability of the seismic‐inversion framework to mountain rivers, although further experiments remain to be conducted at sediment transport near transport capacity. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Burning behavior of cable tray located on a wall with different cable arrangements
Authors: Huang Xianjia , Zhu He , Peng Lan , Zheng Zihui , Zeng Wuyong , Bi Kun , Cheng Chihonn , Chow Wanki
Published: August 2018

Cable fire risk analysis is important for fire protection design in nuclear power plants, where multiple horizontal cable trays are mostly located on the walls. Fire experiments using three cable trays with different cable arrangements were conducted in a confined room to investigate the burning behavior of a cable tray on a wall. A corner was formed by the side wall and the cable tray. Hot smoke emitted from the burning cable was trapped in the corner and then ignited the cable on the bottom surface of the upper cable tray. It is found that for cables densely packed together, spread of flame on the bottom surface of cable tray was clearly observed and increased the mass loss of cable burning during the growth stage of a cable tray fire. For cables arranged further apart, vertical propagation from the bottom tray to the top tray was fast and dominated the mass loss of cable burning.
Cognition and its association with the factors of the EURO‐D: Suffering and Motivation. Findings from SHARE Wave 6
Authors: Portellano‐Ortiz Cristina , Conde‐Sala Josep Lluís
Published: August 2018

Objective

The aims of this study were (1) to analyse the relationship between cognition and clinical and sociodemographic variables, (2) to explore the relationship between cognitive tests and factors of EURO‐D depression scale (Suffering and Motivation), and (3) to determine the relevance of cognition with respect to clinical and sociodemographic variables in the scores of the EURO‐D factors.

Method

About 63 755 participants in the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) Wave 6 (2015) were included. Instruments are as follows: the SHARE study, the EURO‐D scale, and cognitive tests. Bivariate, correlation, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed.

Results

In the regression analysis with cognition, the variables associated with poor cognition were higher age (β = .29), lower educational level (β = −.26), economic difficulties (β = .17), and depression (β = .10). The correlation between cognition and EURO‐D factors was weak in Suffering (r = −0.139) and moderate in Motivation (r = −0.382). In the regression analysis with the EURO‐D, loneliness, poor self‐perceived physical health, female gender, and low cognition were associated with higher depression levels. The main differences in the predictor variables of each factor were cognition (Motivation = −0.248, P < .001; Suffering = 0.002, P = .648) and the female sex (Motivation = 0.015, P < .001, Suffering = 0.175, P < .001).

Conclusions

In the EURO‐D depression scale, poor cognition was associated with higher scores in the Motivation factor only, while the female gender presented higher scores in the Suffering factor.
Affective interoceptive inference: Evidence from heart‐beat evoked brain potentials
Authors: Gentsch Antje , Sel Alejandra , Marshall Amanda C. , Schütz‐Bosbach Simone
Published: August 2018

The perception of internal bodily signals (interoception) is central to many theories of emotion and embodied cognition. According to recent theoretical views, the sensory processing of visceral signals such as one's own heartbeat is determined by top‐down predictions about the expected interoceptive state of the body (interoceptive inference). In this EEG study we examined neural responses to heartbeats following expected and unexpected emotional stimuli. We used a modified stimulus repetition task in which pairs of facial expressions were presented with repeating or alternating emotional content, and we manipulated the emotional valence and the likelihood of stimulus repetition. We found that affective predictions of external socially relevant information modulated the heartbeat‐evoked potential, a marker of cardiac interoception. Crucially, the HEP changes highly relied on the expected emotional content of the facial expression. Thus, expected negative faces led to a decreased HEP amplitude, whereas such an effect was not observed after an expected neutral face. These results suggest that valence‐specific affective predictions, and their uniquely associated predicted bodily sensory state, can reduce or amplify cardiac interoceptive responses. In addition, the affective repetition effects were dependent on repetition probability, highlighting the influence of top‐down exteroceptive predictions on interoception. Our results are in line with recent models of interoception supporting the idea that predicted bodily states influence sensory processing of salient external information.
Development of age‐sex adjusted capitation payment: The experience of Iranian public health complexes
Authors: Nosratnejad Shirin , Esmaeili Reza , Tabrizi Jafar Sadegh , Mahboub‐Ahari Alireza
Published: August 2018

Background

Flat capitations are not necessarily able to compensate health providers equitably due to the variability of resource consumption among different age and sex groups. The aim of this study is to develop a risk adjusted capitation formula as a base for primary health care payment in Health Complexes of Tabriz, in Iran.

Method

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in four stages: (1) determining health service package, (2) calculating unit cost of services, (3) estimating service utilization, and (4) calculating age/sex weighted capitation. We calculated unit cost of services with and without building and equipment expenses. Data collection was carried out through a data extraction checklist. Data management and analysis was carried out via Microsoft Excel 2007.

Result

A list of 99 services and their processes were identified and then assigned each to one of 10 categories according to their resource consumption. The lowest and highest unit cost, respectively, belonged to prenatal care and group training by family physicians. The risk adjusted capitation was calculated with and without renting cost of building and equipment, respectively, 347 000 and 332 000 Rials (1 US$ worth 35 000 Iranian Rials).

Conclusion

The development of health risk adjusted capitation could improve equity in payment system and the efficiency of delivering primary health care services. Estimated weights proposed with our study can be adapted then applied in contexts with similar characteristics.
Association between patient attachment to a regular doctor and self‐perceived unmet health care needs in Canada: A population‐based analysis of the 2013 to 2014 Canadian community health surveys
Authors: Awe Oluwakemi A. , Okpalauwaekwe Udoka , Lawal Adegboyega K. , Ilesanmi Marcus M. , Feng Cindy , Farag Marwa
Published: August 2018

Background

Although Canada operates a universal health care insurance system, equitable access to required health care services when needed still poses a challenge for some. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between patient attachment to a family physician and self‐perceived unmet health care needs (UHN) in Canada, after adjusting for predisposing, enabling, and need factors of the behavioral model of health services use.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from the Canadian Community Health Surveys, cycle 2013 to 2014. A sample of 58 462 individuals aged 12 years and over was analyzed. Logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between patient attachment and self‐perceived UHN.

Results

An estimated 10.41% of the Canadian population 12 years and older reported having UHN in the previous year. Among people with self‐perceived UHN, there was significantly greater likelihood of unattachment to a family physician—no regular doctor or having a regular site of care, being younger, being female, being divorced, separated or widowed, having higher education, having lower income, having poorer perceived physical or mental health, having a weak sense of community belonging, having at least one chronic condition, and having greater activity limitations.

Conclusion

Ongoing public discourses on improving primary health care performance and reducing the burden of UHN in Canada should prioritize efforts that promote and facilitate the use of a regular family physician.
Optimal oncologic management and mTOR inhibitor introduction are safe and improve survival in kidney and liver allograft recipients with de novo carcinoma
Authors: Rousseau Benoit , Guillemin Aude , Duvoux Christophe , Neuzillet Cindy , Tlemsani Camille , Compagnon Philippe , Azoulay Daniel , Salloum Chaddy , Laurent Alexis , de la Taille Alexandre , Salomon Laurent , Cholley Irène , Haioun Corinne , Dupuis Jehan , Wolkenstein Pierre , Matignon Marie‐Bénédicte , Grimbert Philippe , Tournigand Christophe
Published: August 2018

Prognosis and oncologic treatment feasibility in solid organ transplant patients with de novo cancer remain poorly described. We investigated the impact of immunosuppressive therapy modifications after de novo cancer diagnosis on oncologic treatment feasibility, toxicities, and prognosis. Patients with de novo cancer (excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers) were selected from a monocentric cohort of 4,637 kidney and liver allograft recipients. We assessed oncologic treatment optimality according to guidelines and analyzed immunosuppressive drug modifications and oncologic treatment impacts on treatment feasibility, toxicities, and graft/patient survivals. A total of 180 patients with 205 cancers were included: mean age 60 years, median delay from transplantation to first de novo cancer 5 years. In 46% of cases, immunosuppressive therapy was modified after cancer diagnosis: 24% dose reduction and 22% mTOR inhibitor introduction. Optimal oncologic treatment was performed in 80% and 38% of patients with localized and advanced cancer respectively. Transplantation and immunosuppression hindered optimal oncologic treatment in 11% instances. Immunosuppressive therapy modifications did not affect oncologic treatment tolerance nor graft survival. In multivariate analysis, optimal oncologic treatment and mTOR inhibitor introduction improved survival of patients with de novo carcinoma. Optimal oncologic treatment is feasible in kidney and liver allograft recipients without safety concerns. Optimal oncologic treatment and mTOR inhibitor introduction seem to markedly improve survival of patients with de novo carcinoma.
PARP inhibitors synergize with gemcitabine by potentiating DNA damage in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Jiang Yu , Dai Hui , Li Yang , Yin Jun , Guo Shuliang , Lin Shiaw‐Yih , McGrail Daniel J.
Published: August 2018

Poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have demonstrated great promise in the treatment of patients with deficiencies in homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair, such as those with loss of BRCA1 or BRCA2 function. However, emerging studies suggest that PARP inhibition can also target HR‐competent cancers, such as non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and that the therapeutic effect of PARP inhibition may be improved by combination with chemotherapy agents. In our study, it was found that PARP inhibitors talazoparib (BMN‐673) and olaparib (AZD‐2281) both had synergistic activity with the common first‐line chemotherapeutic gemcitabine in a panel of lung cancer cell lines. Furthermore, the combination demonstrated significant in vivo antitumor activity in an H23 xenograft model of NSCLC compared to either agent as monotherapy. This synergism occurred without loss of HR repair efficiency. Instead, the combination induced synergistic single‐strand DNA breaks, leading to accumulation of toxic double‐strand DNA lesions in vitro and in vivo. Our study elucidates the underlying mechanisms of synergistic activity of PARP inhibitors and gemcitabine, providing a strong motivation to pursue this combination as an improved therapeutic regimen.
Effects of toy removal and number of demands on vocal stereotypy during response interruption and redirection
Authors: Toper‐Korkmaz Ozlem , Lerman Dorothea C. , Tsami Loukia
Published: August 2018

Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of response interruption and redirection (RIRD) for reducing vocal stereotypy in children with autism. However, the procedure can be time‐consuming to implement. Results of Saini, Gregory, Uran, and Fantetti (2015) suggested that an abbreviated variation of RIRD was just as effective as the commonly used variation of RIRD, but further research is needed. In addition, no studies have evaluated the role of toy removal on the efficacy of RIRD even though this procedural component is frequently combined with RIRD. We examined the separate and combined effects of RIRD and contingent toy removal when three children with autism were required to respond to one demand versus three demands. One‐demand RIRD was effective for all participants, and the contingent removal of toys alone reduced responding for two of three participants. Findings have important implications for treating vocal stereotypy in relevant settings.
Correlation between HDAC4 enhancer DNA methylation and mRNA expression during palatal fusion induced by all‐trans retinoic acid
Authors: Shu Xuan , Cheng Hongqiu , Shu Shenyou , Tang Shijie , Li Ke , Dong Zejun
Published: August 2018

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transformation of the medial edge epithelium is the most crucial process in embryonic palatal fusion. This study aimed to explore the relationship and potential mechanism between enhancer DNA methylation and mRNA expression of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) during palatal fusion induced by maternal exposure to all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Pregnant mice were administered ATRA (70 mg/kg) by gavage at embryonic gestation day 10.5 (E10.5) to establish a cleft palate (CP) model in C57BL/6J mice. Control groups were given an equivalent volume of corn oil. Pregnant mice were dissected at E14.5 (n = 6) to obtain embryonic palates. HDAC4 enhancer DNA methylation data were obtained from a previous MethylRAD‐seq. Methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) and real‐time quantitative PCR were used to quantify enhancer methylation and the mRNA expression level of HDAC4. Enhancer DNA methylation at a non‐CpG site within the HDAC4 gene was hyper‐methylated at E14.5 (P: 0.011, log2FC:1.67). The MSP results indicated a similar trend, in agreement with the MethylRAD‐seq results. The change in the HDAC4 expression level was negatively correlated with its enhancer DNA methylation level, at the non‐CpG site, during palatal fusion induced by ATRA. Enhancer DNA methylation of HDAC4 might play an important regulatory role during palatogenesis, especially in embryonic palatal fusion at E 14.5, and may facilitate the development of novel epigenetic biomarkers in the treatment of CP.
Structural basis for drug resistance mechanisms against anaplastic lymphoma kinase
Authors: Goyal Sukriti , Jamal Salma , Shanker Asheesh , Grover Abhinav
Published: August 2018

Drug resistance to anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors (crizotinib and ceritinib) is caused by mutation in the region encoding kinase domain of ALK. Compounds with potential ability to inhibit all strains of ALK are a solution to tackle the problem of drug resistance. In this study, we delineated positions of residues possessing the ability to make ALK drug resistant upon mutation by assessing them using five parameters (conservation index, binding‐site root‐mean‐square deviation, protein structure stability, change in ATP, and drug‐binding affinity). Four residual positions (Leu 1122, Thr 1151, Phe 1245, and Gly 1269) were ascertained. This study will be beneficial for designing drugs with better proficiency against ALK and the issues of drug resistance. This study can be taken as a pipeline for investigating drug‐resistant mutations in other diseases as well.
Ferulic acid inhibits interleukin 17‐dependent expression of nodal pathogenic mediators in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ganesan Ramamoorthi , Rasool Mahaboobkhan
Published: August 2018

Interleukin 17 (IL‐17), a proinflammatory cytokine produced by T helper (Th) 17 cells, potentially controls fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS)‐mediated disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) via IL‐17/ IL‐17 receptor type A (IL‐17RA)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT‐3) signaling cascade. This has suggested that targeting IL‐17 signaling could serve as an important strategy to treat FLS‐mediated RA progression. Ferulic acid (FA), a key polyphenol, attenuates the development of gouty arthritis and cancer through its anti‐inflammatory effects, but its therapeutic efficiency on IL‐17 signaling in FLS‐mediated RA pathogenesis remains unknown. In the current study, FA markedly inhibited the IL‐17‐mediated expression of its specific transmembrane receptor IL‐17RA in FLS isolated from adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AA) rats. Importantly, FA dramatically suppressed the IL‐17‐mediated expression of toll‐like receptor 3 (TLR‐3), cysteine‐rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61), IL‐23, granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) in AA‐FLS via the inhibition of IL‐17/IL‐17RA/STAT‐3 signaling cascade. In addition, FA significantly decreased the formation of osteoclast cells and bone resorption potential in a coculture system consisting of IL‐17 treated AA‐FLS and rat bone marrow derived monocytes/macrophages. Furthermore, FA remarkably inhibited the IL‐17‐mediated expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor κ‐Β ligand (RANKL) and increased the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) in AA‐FLS via the regulation of IL‐17/IL‐17RA/STAT‐3 signaling cascade. The therapeutic efficiency of FA on IL‐17 signaling was further confirmed by knockdown of IL‐17RA using small interfering RNA or blocking of STAT‐3 activation with S3I‐201. The molecular docking analysis revealed that FA manifests significant ligand efficiency toward IL‐17RA, STAT‐3, IL‐23, and RANKL proteins. This study provides new evidence that FA can be used as a potential therapeutic agent for inhibiting IL‐17‐mediated disease severity and bone erosion in RA.
The role of community psychology in Christian community development
Authors: Eccleston Sara M. Perisho , Perkins Douglas D.
Published: August 2018

This project examines the connections between community psychology and faith‐based community development. We investigate whether and how 4 major principles of community psychology—neighboring, sense of community, empowerment, and citizen participation—are found in the theory and philosophy of practice of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA), a national faith‐based community development network. We employ content analysis of four official CCDA publications to identify whether and how these four principles are embedded in the organization's espoused principles of practice. Our findings are as follows: (a) All four principles are found within CCDA theory and philosophy of practice, with the greatest emphasis on neighboring and sense of community and a less robust application of empowerment and citizen participation; (b) CCDA primarily focuses on the individual‐level impact of these principles; and (c) CCDA Bases their application of these principles in Christian scripture and tradition. Our results indicate that the field could be strengthened by examining religious approaches to these principles and considering how organizations engage these concepts in both the theory and the practice. Additionally, faith‐based organizations may foster a more effective application of these concepts in their social change efforts by partnering with community researchers and practitioners.
Transposition of the great arteries: When echocardiography does not match the clinical picture
Authors: Dhillon Gurpreet S. , Fernandes Caraciolo J. , Khan Asra , Heinle Jeffrey S. , Lopez Keila N.
Published: August 2018

Aortopulmonary window (APW) is a rare form of congenital heart disease seen in isolation or with complex cardiac lesions. APW has been associated with other cardiac defects such as interrupted aortic arch and Tetralogy of Fallot, but few cases have been reported of APW associated with transposition of the great arteries (TGA). In a newborn with TGA and intact ventricular septum, diagnosis of APW requires a high index of suspicion. This article reviews the literature on TGA with APW and illustrates the importance of additional evaluation in neonates with TGA when oxygen saturation and PaO2 do not match predicted clinical values.
Note on list star edge‐coloring of subcubic graphs
Authors: Lužar Borut , Mockovčiaková Martina , Soták Roman
Published: August 2018

A star edge‐coloring of a graph is a proper edge‐coloring without bichromatic paths and cycles of length four. In this paper, we consider the list version of this coloring and prove that the list star chromatic index of every subcubic graph is at most 7, answering the question of Dvořák et al (J Graph Theory, 72 (2013), 313‐326).
The comeback of immunoregulatory receptors on memory and aging CD8+ T cells: The wisdom of youth
Authors: Caligiuri, Giuseppina
Published: August 2018

The comeback of CD31 by CD8+ T lymphocytes transitioning from activated to memory and effector cells might be explained by a leukocyte-specific gene regulation.
Guava flavonoid glycosides prevent influenza A virus infection via rescue of P53 activity
Authors: Khalil Hany , Abd El Maksoud Ahmed I. , Roshdey Tamer , El‐Masry Samir
Published: August 2018

Influenza is a highly infectious disease caused by three types of viruses, including influenza A virus (IAV), influenza B virus, and, rarely, influenza C virus. IAV is a major, global public health threat, causing approximately 500 000 deaths per year worldwide. The new strains of IAV have emerged due to a mutation called antigenic shift, which results in a new subtype of the virus that shows resistance to common antiviral drugs. Here, guava and lemon extracts, including green leaves and flowers, were investigated for their activity against IAV replication in human A549 cells. Concomitantly, the cytotoxicity of a potent extract on host‐cell multiplication was assessed. Our results reveal that guava extracts inhibit IAV replication, indicated by viral nucleoprotein expression profile and traditional plaque assay. Interestingly, treatment with guava extract inactivates Akt protein kinase and stimulates the pro‐apoptotic protein P53, at early stages of infection. Furthermore, purified guava flavonoid glycosides (GFGs) show competitive inhibition of IAV‐virus replication via early regulation of IL‐1β and IL‐8 in association with P53 gene expression. The docking analysis of GFGs and the protein structure of upstream targets for the Akt signaling pathway indicates a sufficient interaction and stabilization with Gbr2 protein. These data indicate that treatment with GFGs disturbs IAV replication via activation of P53 and its apoptotic related factors after infection. Collectively, these data show that targeting of essential host kinases that are involved in the replication cycle of IAV and rescue of P53 activity by GFGs could represent a new strategy to eradicate IAV.
Defining parameters of specificity for bioluminescent optogenetic activation of neurons using in vitro multi electrode arrays (MEA)
Authors: Prakash Mansi , Medendorp William E. , Hochgeschwender Ute
Published: August 2018

In Bioluminescent Optogenetics (BL‐OG) a biological, rather than a physical, light source is used to activate light‐sensing opsins, such as channelrhodopsins or pumps. This is commonly achieved by utilizing a luminopsin (LMO), a fusion protein of a light‐emitting luciferase tethered to a light‐sensing opsin. Light of the wavelength matching the activation peak of the opsin is emitted by the luciferase upon application of its small molecule luciferin, resulting in activation of the fused opsin and subsequent effects on membrane potential. Using optimized protocols for culturing, transforming, and testing primary neurons in multi electrode arrays, we systematically defined parameters under which changes in neuronal activity are specific to bioluminescent activation of opsins, rather than due to off‐target effects of either the luciferin or its solvent on neurons directly, or on opsins directly. We further tested if there is a direct effect of bioluminescence on neurons. Critical for assuring specific BL‐OG effects are testing the concentration and formulation of the luciferin against proper controls, including testing effects of vehicle on LMO expressing and of luciferin on nonLMO expressing targets.
Biofilm forming bacteria and archaea in thermal karst springs of Gellért Hill discharge area (Hungary)
Authors: Borsodi Andrea K. , Anda Dóra , Makk Judit , Krett Gergely , Dobosy Péter , Büki Gabriella , Erőss Anita , Mádl‐Szőnyi Judit
Published: August 2018

The Buda Thermal Karst System (BTKS) is an extensive active hypogenic cave system located beneath the residential area of the Hungarian capital. At the river Danube, several thermal springs discharge forming spring caves. To reveal and compare the morphological structure and prokaryotic diversity of reddish‐brown biofilms developed on the carbonate rock surfaces of the springs, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and molecular cloning were applied. Microbial networks formed by filamentous bacteria and other cells with mineral crystals embedded in extracellular polymeric substances were observed in the SEM images. Biofilms were dominated by prokaryotes belonging to phyla Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi and Nitrospirae (Bacteria) and Thaumarchaeota (Archaea) but their abundance showed differences according to the type of the host rock, geographic distance, and different water exchange. In addition, representatives of phyla Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, Caldithrix, Cyanobacteria, Firmicutes Gemmatimonadetes, and several candidate divisions of Bacteria as well as Crenarchaeota and Euryarchaeota were detected in sample‐dependent higher abundance. The results indicate that thermophilic, anaerobic sulfur‐, sulfate‐, nitrate‐, and iron(III)‐reducing chemoorganotrophic as well as sulfur‐, ammonia‐, and nitrite‐oxidizing chemolithotrophic prokaryotes can interact in the studied biofilms adapted to the unique and extreme circumstances (e.g., aphotic and nearly anoxic conditions, oligotrophy, and radionuclide accumulation) in the thermal karst springs.
Variability and trends in record air temperature events of Turkey and their associations with atmospheric oscillations and anomalous circulation patterns
Authors: Türkeş Murat , Erlat Ecmel
Published: August 2018

The study investigated temporal variations of record and absolute maximum and minimum air temperatures (Tmax and Tmin, respectively), and surface and upper atmospheric conditions in years, in which the highest number of events were observed at 90 stations of Turkey during period of 1950–2015. The results have shown that annual frequency of record Tmin events revealed an evident decreasing since mid‐1980s while frequency of Tmax events increased particularly starting from the year of 2000. Half of record Tmax events were recorded during 2000–2015 period. On the other hand, daily absolute Tmax occurred mostly in 2000, whereas daily absolute Tmin events were mostly recorded in 1953.

With respect to linkages to atmospheric teleconnection patterns, statistically significant negative relationships were detected between numbers of Turkey's record Tmax events and the North Atlantic Oscillation Index (NAOI) in July, December, and annually, and between the Arctic Oscillation Index (AOI) and the record Tmax events in winter months. The North Sea–Caspian Pattern Index (NCPI) had a significantly strong negative relationship with record‐breaking Tmax events in February, March, August, October, and annually. However, statistically significant relationships found between the NCPI and record Tmin events in November, January, and annually are different from other atmospheric oscillations.

Well‐defined synoptic‐scale surface and upper atmospheric circulation anomalies closely controlled occurrence and nature/magnitude of highest number of record‐breaking Tmax events in Turkey by carrying frequently the tropical origin weather systems and continental tropical warm/hot air masses towards Turkey and her surroundings. On the other hands, record‐breaking Tmin events detected were related closely with the patterns of surface and upper atmospheric circulation anomalies carrying frequently polar and subpolar or mid‐latitudinal weather systems with the continental polar air masses mostly cold and stable to Turkey and her surrounding regions.
Near‐field enhancements and surface plasmon polaritons with multifunctional oxide thin films
Authors: Dab Chahinez , Thomas Reji , Hajlaoui Thameur , Ruediger Andreas
Published: August 2018

The thickness of multifunctional oxide films directly affects the localized enhancement of the electromagnetic field and hence is a key factor for realizing novel photonic or optoelectronic devices. To this end, we theoretically exploit the principle of tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy on the surface of multifunctional oxide films (bismuth ferrite and barium titanate) on a gold substrate. An electromagnetic field enhancement of up to 104 in close proximity of the tip apex was obtained. The good agreement between simulation and experiment of spatial resolution of the tip supports the validity of our model. By investigation of surface plasmon polaritons that propagates at the interface between the multifunctional film and the gold substrate, we demonstrated a thickness dependent propagation length and amplitude. This study indicates a critical thickness of the films above which neither a considerable near‐field nor a tip‐mediated excitation are observed. This confirms the validity, promise, and power of tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy technique for the analysis of various electro‐optic materials.
Recent applications of on‐line supercritical fluid extraction coupled to advanced analytical techniques for compounds extraction and identification
Authors: Sánchez‐Camargo Andrea del Pilar , Parada‐Alonso Fabián , Ibáñez Elena , Cifuentes Alejandro
Published: August 2018

In a previous review (Sánchez‐Camargo et al., J. Sep. Sci. 40 (2017) 213–227), we discussed the application of on‐line supercritical fluid extraction coupled to chromatographic techniques. This review includes an update of the most recent publications (from January 2016 till June 2018) on this topic, which employs advanced analytical techniques for extracting and identifying valuable analytes. Supercritical fluid extraction has been widely recognized as a green sample preparation technique, because it is efficient, environmentally friendly, powerful, and faster, offering the possibility of direct coupling to analytical instrumental techniques. Among those techniques, supercritical fluid chromatography has experienced an innovative progression in the last 10 years, and the most recent applications of supercritical fluid extraction are coupled to this advanced analytical tool. The general principles, both methodological and instrumental of on‐line supercritical fluid extraction coupled to supercritical fluid chromatography are described here. Besides, applications of the mentioned coupling for analysing biological fluids, food, soil, and botanical samples are also presented and discussed. Finally, a brief description about the very recent on‐line coupling of supercritical fluid extraction to ion mobility spectrometry is presented, as well as concluding remarks about the importance of using these coupled techniques in the near future.
Collagen/Heparin Bi‐Affinity Multilayer Modified Collagen Scaffolds for Controlled bFGF Release to Improve Angiogenesis In Vivo
Authors: Hao Wangping , Han Jie , Chu Yun , Huang Lei , Zhuang Yan , Sun Jie , Li Xiaoran , Zhao Yannan , Chen Yanyan , Dai Jianwu
Published: August 2018

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is an important protein for wound healing and angiogenesis in tissue engineering, but the lack of a viable delivery system hampers its clinical application. This study aims to maintain the long‐term controlled release of bFGF by utilizing a collagen/heparin bi‐affinity multilayer delivery system (CHBMDS), which is fabricated by the alternate deposition of negatively charged heparin, positively charged collagen, and CBD‐bFGF (a collagen‐binding domain [CBD] was fused into the native bFGF) via specific or electrostatic interaction. The results show that CHBMDS not only support localized and prolonged release of CBD‐bFGF(over 35 days) but also lead to enhanced angiogenesis (higher density and larger diameter (≈70 µm) of newly formed blood vessels in subcutaneous tissue of SD rat after 5 weeks). This system could act as a versatile approach for bFGF delivery and further improve therapeutic efficacy for injured tissues.
Restricted thresholding: recovering smoothness and preserving edges
Authors: Vera Daniel
Published: August 2018

Restricted non linear approximation is a generalization of the N‐term approximation in which a measure on the index set of the approximants controls the type, instead of the number, of elements in the approximation. Thresholding is a well‐known type of non linear approximation. We relate a generalized upper and lower Temlyakov property with the decreasing rate of the thresholding approximation. This relation is in the form of a characterization through some general discrete Lorentz spaces. Thus, not only we recover some results in the literature but find new ones. As an application of these results, we compress and reduce noise of some images with wavelets and shearlets and show, at least empirically, that the L2‐norm is not necessarily the best norm to measure the approximation error.