bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole‐Exome Sequencing Identifies an Intronic Cryptic Splice Site in SERPINF1 Causing Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type VI
Authors: Jin Zixue , Burrage Lindsay C , Jiang Ming‐Ming , Lee Yi‐Chien , Bertin Terry , Chen Yuqing , Tran Alyssa , Gibbs Richard A , Jhangiani Shalini , Sutton V Reid , Rauch Frank , Lee Brendan , Jain Mahim
Published: February 2018

The heritable disorder osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is characterized by bone fragility and low bone mass. OI type VI is an autosomal recessive form of the disorder with moderate to severe bone fragility. OI type VI is caused by mutations in the serpin peptidase inhibitor, clade F, member 1 (SERPINF1), the gene coding for pigment epithelium‐derived factor (PEDF). Here, we report a patient with OI type VI caused by a novel homozygous intronic variant in SERPINF1 identified by whole‐exome sequencing (WES). The mutation was not identified using a low bone mass gene panel based on next‐generation sequencing. This variant creates a novel consensus splice donor site (AGGC to AGGT) in intron 4. Analysis of cDNA generated from fibroblasts revealed retention of a 32‐bp intronic fragment between exons 4 and 5 in the cDNA, a result of alternative splicing from the novel splice‐donor site. As a result, the aberrant insertion of this intronic fragment generated a frameshift pathogenic variant and induced nonsense‐mediated decay. Furthermore, gene expression by quantitative PCR showed SERPINF1 expression was dramatically reduced in patient fibroblasts, and PEDF level was also significantly reduced in the patient's plasma. In conclusion, we report a novel homozygous variant that generates an alternative splice‐donor in intron 4 of SERPINF1 which gives rise to severe bone fragility. The work also demonstrates clinical utility of WES analysis, and consideration of noncoding variants, in the diagnostic setting of rare bone diseases. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
molUP: A VMD plugin to handle QM and ONIOM calculations using the gaussian software
Authors: S. Fernandes Henrique , Ramos Maria J. , M. F. S. A. Cerqueira Nuno
Published: February 2018

The notable advances obtained by computational (bio)chemistry provided its widespread use in many areas of science, in particular, in the study of reaction mechanisms. These studies involve a huge number of complex calculations, which are often carried out using the Gaussian suite of programs. The preparation of input files and the analysis of the output files are not easy tasks and often involve laborious and complex steps. Taking this into account, we developed molUP: a VMD plugin that offers a complete set of tools that enhance the preparation of QM and ONIOM (QM/MM, QM/QM, and QM/QM/MM) calculations. The starting structures for these calculations can be imported from different chemical formats. A set of tools is available to help the user to examine or modify any geometry parameter. This includes the definition of layers in ONIOM calculations, choosing fixed atoms during geometry optimizations, the recalculation or adjustment of the atomic charges, performing SCANs or IRC calculations, etc. molUP also extracts the geometries from the output files as well as the energies of each of them. All of these tasks are performed in an interactive GUI that is extremely helpful for the user. MolUP was developed to be easy to handle by inexperienced users, but simultaneously to be a fast and flexible graphical interface to allow the advanced users to take full advantage of this plugin. The program is available, free of charges, for macOS, Linux, and Windows at the PortoBioComp page https://www.fc.up.pt/PortoBioComp/database/doku.php?id=molup. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Micellar polymerization: Computer simulations by dissipative particle dynamics
Authors: Shupanov Ruslan , Chertovich Alexander , Kos Pavel
Published: February 2018

Nowadays, micellar polymerization is widely used in different fields of industry and research, including modern living polymerization technique. However, this process has many variables and there is no comprehensive model to describe all features. This research presents simulation methodology which describes key properties of such reactions to take a guide through a variety of their modifications. Dissipative particle dynamics is used in addition to Monte Carlo scheme to simulate initiation, propagation, and termination events. Influence of initiation probability and different termination processes on final conversion and molecular‐weight distribution are presented. We demonstrate that prolonged initiation leads to increasing in polymer average molecular weight, and surface termination events play major role in conversion limitation, in comparison with recombination. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Listening local: Community perceptions of fresh food resources in Greater Little Rock
Authors: Moak Stacy C. , McAteer Caitlin P. S. , Rossi Heather A. , Schmidt Merrill J.
Published: February 2018

A research team from the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service partnered with community stakeholders to study fresh food access in Central Arkansas. The purpose of this study was to inform decision making on options to reduce food insecurity in two target neighborhoods. The study included three components: (a) interviews at food pantries, (b) online surveys with local experts, and (c) asset mapping of the healthy food resources in the target neighborhoods. Findings reveal that cost and transportation present barriers to fresh food access in the target neighborhoods. Furthermore, residents support mobile markets and community gardens as viable options for increasing food access. The process of understanding food insecurity discussed in this study can provide a model for other communities in addressing urban food security issues. Each community is unique; thus, community based research should be undertaken in the community prior to interventions that address food access and nutrition.
Concentration of whey protein from cheese whey effluent using ultrafiltration by combination of hydrophilic metal oxides and hydrophobic polymer
Authors: Yogarathinam Lukka Thuyavan , Gangasalam Arthanareeswaran , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Arumugam Sivasamy , Narayanan Anantharaman
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

In this study, hydrophilic metal oxides such as TiO2, ZrO2 and ZnO were used as modifier for the preparation of polyethersulfone (PES) mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for the filtration of cheese whey effluent. Nano metal oxide loading concentration was varied from 0.5 to 2.5 wt%.

RESULTS

Characterization of metal oxide studies show that the particles are hydrophilic and nanoscaled. ZnO nanoparticles are in the form of nanocluster and of size 14.28–20.10 nm. Physio‐chemical characterization of PES MMMs indicated that the nano metal oxides dispersed well in the PES matrix. Contact angle decreased up to 59.88° for 1.5 wt% TiO2 embedded PES (TiO2ePES) MMMs. Also, 1.5 wt% TiO2ePES MMMs gives a higher water permeability of 4.62 × 10–7 m s–1 kPa–1. Among membranes, 1.5 wt% TiO2ePES, 2.0 wt% ZrO2ePES and 1.5 wt% ZnOePES MMMs showed better flux, lower percentage fouling and better rejection for individual whey proteins.

CONCLUSION

The whey protein from cheese whey effluent was concentrated up to maximum of 43.9 mg L–1 using 2.0 wt% ZrO2ePES MMMs. It was found that 1.5 wt% TiO2ePES MMMs gives a higher average flux of 25.09 L m–2 h–1 and a lower flux reduction percentage of 39%. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Trichoderma harzianum‐based novel formulations: potential applications for management of Next‐Gen agricultural challenges
Authors: Fraceto Leonardo F , Maruyama Cintia R , Guilger Mariana , Mishra Sandhya , Keswani Chetan , Singh Harikesh Bahadur , de Lima Renata
Published: February 2018

Fungi of the Trichoderma spp. genus, notably Trichoderma harzianum, are commonly used for biological management of deleterious seed‐ and soil‐borne pathogens. The global biopesticides market is booming with a major share of various commercial formulations of T. harzianum. However, there are some major drawbacks associated with these commercial formulations including short shelf life, low on‐field stability and irregular performance in different agro‐climatic regions. For effectively resolving these issues, new strategies are urgently required for efficient management of pathogens. The present review provides an overview of the use of Trichoderma spp., with special emphasis on T. harzianum, and discusses future trends for biological control. Technologies are described for the microencapsulation of fungi and for the biogenic synthesis of nanoparticles, with the aim of improving the biological control of pathogens and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
High resolution SEM characterization of nano‐precipitates in ODS steels
Authors: Jóźwik Iwona , Strojny‐Nędza Agata , Chmielewski Marcin , Pietrzak Katarzyna , Kurpaska Łukasz , Nosewicz Szymon
Published: February 2018

The performance of the present‐day scanning electron microscopy (SEM) extends far beyond delivering electronic images of the surface topography. Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steel is on of the most promising materials for the future nuclear fusion reactor because of its good radiation resistance, and higher operation temperature up to 750°C. The microstructure of ODS should not exceed tens of nm, therefore there is a strong need in a fast and reliable technique for their characterization. In this work, the results of low‐kV SEM characterization of nanoprecipitates formed in the ODS matrix are presented. Application of highly sensitive photo‐diode BSE detector in SEM imaging allowed for the registration of single nm‐sized precipitates in the vicinity of the ODS alloys. The composition of the precipitates has been confirmed by TEM‐EDS.
Theoretical study of the effect of piezoelectric bone matrix on transient fluid flow in the osteonal lacunocanaliculae
Authors: Min Sungki , Lee Taekyeong , Lee Soon Hyuck , Hong Junghwa
Published: February 2018

A new theoretical generation mechanism of the transient streaming potential considering variations in the surface potential on the wall in a lacunocanalicular system, is proposed based on the assumption of the piezoelectric bone matrix. To obtain the streaming potential analytically, a modified transient charge density equation is proposed. An osteon is modeled as a piezoelectric solid phase having fluid‐filled cavities (lacunae) connected by channels (canaliculae) to obtain the pressure gradients in the canaliculae and the electric boundary conditions on the canalicular walls. In addition, this study focused on modeling of the negatively charged glycocalyx that fills the annular fluid space between the osteocytic process and the canalicular wall. It is assumed that the annular fluid space of the canaliculi can be represented as a two‐layer configuration for flow through a gap (between the tips of the glycocalyx and the canalicular wall) overlaying the porous glycocalyx. The transient streaming potential and bone fluid flow affected by the generated total potential are analyzed using the one‐dimensional lacunocanalicular fluid path, which is surrounded by the piezoelectric bone matrix. A significant increase in the streaming potential is predicted for the case with piezoelectricity. The peak streaming potential value with the piezoelectricity is found to be up to 58.8% greater compared with that without piezoelectricity. The electroviscous effect due to the total electric potential gradients on the fluid velocities in the canaliculi is negligible. These findings imply that the piezoelectric effect caused by deformation of the bone matrix should be considered for prediction of the streaming potential in the lacunocanaliculae. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2239–2249, 2018.
Transcriptional profiling of synovium in a porcine model of early post‐traumatic osteoarthritis
Authors: Sieker Jakob T. , Proffen Benedikt L. , Waller Kimberly A. , Chin Kaitlyn E. , Karamchedu Naga Padmini , Akelman Matthew R. , Perrone Gabriel S. , Kiapour Ata M. , Konrad Johannes , Fleming Braden C. , Murray Martha M.
Published: February 2018

To determine the transcriptional profile of synovium during the molecular phase of post‐traumatic osteoarthritis, anterior cruciate ligament transections (ACL) were performed in 36 Yucatan minipigs. Equal numbers were randomly assigned to no further treatment, ACL reconstruction or repair. Perimeniscal synovium for histopathology and RNA‐sequencing was harvested at 1 and 4 weeks post‐operatively and from six healthy control animals. Microscopic synovitis scores significantly worsened at 1 (p < 0.001) and 4 weeks (p = 0.003) post‐surgery relative to controls, and were driven by intimal hyperplasia and increased stromal cellularity without inflammatory infiltrates. Synovitis scores were similar between no treatment, reconstruction, and repair groups (p ≥ 0.668). Relative to no treatment at 1 week, 88 and 367 genes were differentially expressed in the reconstruction and repair groups, respectively (227 and 277 at 4 weeks). Relative to controls and with the treatment groups pooled, 1,683 transcripts were concordantly differentially expressed throughout the post‐surgery time‐course. Affected pathways included,proteolysis_connective tissue degradation(including upregulations of protease‐encodingMMP1,MMP13, andADAMTS4), anddevelopment_cartilage development(including upregulations ofACAN,SOX9, andRUNX2), among others. Using linear regression, significant associations of post‐surgery synovial expression levels of 20 genes with the articular cartilage glycosaminoglycan loss were identified. These genes were predominantly related toembryonic skeletal system developmentand includedRUNX2. In conclusion, this study confirmed an increased synovial expression of genes that may serve as targets to prevent cartilage degradation, includingMMP1,MMP13, andADAMTS4, in knees with microscopic synovitis and cartilage proteoglycan loss. Attractive novel targets include regulators of embryonic developmental processes in synovium. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2128–2139, 2018.
Subgingival microbial profile of obese women with periodontal disease
Authors: Silva‐Boghossian Carina M. , Cesário Paola C. , Leão Anna Thereza T. , Colombo Ana Paula V.
Published: February 2018

Background

This study compared the composition of subgingival microbiota between obese and non‐obese women with or without periodontal disease.

Methods

Full‐mouth periodontal clinical assessments were carried out in 76 obese women (17 periodontally healthy and 59 with periodontal disease), and 34 non‐obese women (12 periodontally healthy, 22 with periodontal disease). Subgingival biofilm samples were individually obtained from seven sites of each individual, and the prevalence and counts of 40 bacterial taxa were determined by the checkerboard method. The frequency and counts of each species were computed for each individual and across the groups. Differences among and between groups were sought by the Kruskal‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney tests, respectively. Possible correlations between obesity and clinical and microbiologic parameters were tested with Spearman correlation coefficient.

Results

Streptococcus sanguinis, Streptococcus oralis, and Capnocytophaga ochracea were found in significantly higher levels in obese compared with non‐obese women (P < 0.01). In patients with periodontal health, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Leptotrichia buccalis were detected in higher mean frequency and/or counts in obese women than in non‐obese women, whereas in patients with periodontal disease, obese women harbored greater levels of C. ochracea than non‐obese women (P < 0.01). Moreover, obese women with periodontal disease presented significantly greater mean counts of P. gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia than non‐obese women with periodontal health (P < 0.01). When the conditions obesity and periodontal disease are present at the same time, significant positive correlations were detected with C. ocharcea, P. gingivalis, S. sanguinis, and T. forsythia.

Conclusion

Few differences in the composition of the subgingival microbiota of obese and non‐obese women with periodontal health or disease were found. However, a high prevalence of P. gingivalis in obese women with periodontal health was observed.
Impact of a triclosan‐containing toothpaste during the progression of experimental peri‐implant mucositis: Clinical parameters and local pattern of osteo‐immunoinflammatory mediators in peri‐implant fluid
Authors: Ribeiro Fernanda V. , Casati Marcio Z. , Casarin Renato C. , Corrêa Mônica G. , Cirano Fabiano R. , Negri Brenno M. , Pimentel Suzana P.
Published: February 2018

Background

This study evaluated the influence of a triclosan‐containing toothpaste in the profile of osteo‐immunoinflammatory mediators in peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) and in clinical parameters during progression of peri‐implant mucositis.

Methods

Twenty‐two clinically healthy patients with an implant‐supported single‐unit crown were enrolled in this double‐blind, randomized, crossover study carried out in two phases of 21 days each. During an experimental 3‐week period of undisturbed plaque accumulation in the implants, patients were randomly assigned to use three times/day: triclosan (n = 11), triclosan/copolymer/fluoride toothpaste; or placebo (n = 11), fluoride toothpaste. After a professional prophylaxis, a washout period of 30 days was established. Clinical parameters and 15 osteo‐immunoinflammatory mediators in the PICF were evaluated at baseline and at 3, 7, 14, and 21 days.

Results

Both groups showed increase in plaque index at implant sites from the 3rd until the 21st day (P < 0.05). Only triclosan treatment was able to avoid an increase in bleeding on probing (BOP) throughout the follow‐ups (P > 0.05), whereas a significant intensification in BOP was observed from the 14th day in the placebo‐treated sites (P < 0.05). Lower interleukin (IL)‐10 concentrations were detected in the placebo group at the 21st day when compared with triclosan‐treated implant sites (P < 0.05). IL‐10 levels were reduced and IL‐1β concentrations were increased at 21 days when compared with baseline only in placebo‐treated sites (P < 0.05). Osteoprotegerin levels significantly increased from the 14th until the 21st day only in triclosan‐treated sites (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Triclosan‐containing toothpaste controls clinical inflammation and interferes positively in the profile of osteo‐immunoinflammatory mediators during progression of experimental peri‐implant mucositis.
Influence of periodontal treatment on subgingival and salivary microbiotas
Authors: Belstrøm Daniel , Grande Maria Anastasia , Sembler‐Møller Maria Lynn , Kirkby Nikolai , Cotton Sean L. , Paster Bruce J. , Holmstrup Palle
Published: February 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to characterize and compare subgingival and salivary microbiotas before and after periodontal treatment to learn if any changes of the subgingival microbiota were reflected in saliva. We tested the hypothesis that salivary levels of specific periopathogens correlate with corresponding subgingival levels before and after periodontal treatment.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients with generalized chronic periodontitis completed the study. Stimulated saliva samples and subgingival plaque samples were collected at baseline and 2, 6, and 12 weeks after nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Subgingival and salivary microbiotas were processed by means of the Human Oral Microbe Next Generation Sequencing (HOMINGS) technique and characterized based on relative abundance. Spearman signed rank test was used to test correlation of periopathogens in subgingival and saliva samples.

Results

Periodontal treatment resulted in significantly higher relative abundance of Streptococcus, Rothia and Actinomyces in combination with a significant decrease in Porphyromonas and Treponema in subgingival plaque samples. Relative abundance of the overall predominant genera in saliva was not influenced by periodontal treatment. However, there was a positive correlation between samples of subgingival plaque and saliva before and after periodontal treatment (p < 0.0001) with respect to relative abundance of specific periopathogens, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis (r = 0.68), Prevotella intermedia (r = 0.72), Filifactor alocis (r = 0.58), Treponema denticola (r = 0.51), Tannerella forsythia (r = 0.45) and Parvimonas micra (r = 0.45).

Conclusions

Subgingival and salivary abundance of periodontal pathogens correlated before and after treatment. Thus, data from this study suggest that periopathogens identified in saliva may be spill‐over from the subgingival microbiota.
Raman spectroscopy and ab initio quantum chemical calculations of ion association behavior in calcium nitrate solution
Authors: Zhu Fayan , Zhou Hongxia , Wang Xiufang , Zhou Yongquan , Liu Hongyan , Fang Chunhui , Fang Yan
Published: February 2018

In this work, microscopic Raman spectroscopy and component analysis were used to study a calcium nitrate solution with molar water‐to‐salt ratio (WSR) values of 4–320. The results showed that the symmetrical stretching vibration wavenumber of the nitrate ion (v1‐NO3−) in the solution blue shifted from 1,048 to 1,053 cm−1, and the full width at half maximum increased from 9.7 to 11 cm−1 when the WSR was reduced from 320 to 4. The component analysis of v1‐NO3− showed that the first concentration region was for WSR ≥ 16.3. In this region, solvent‐shared ion pairs (SIPs) were the main species, and contact ion pairs (CIPs) and free‐hydrated ions were the secondary species. For 8.4 ≤ WSR < 16.3, the main species were CIPs; the amount of complex structures in this region increased rapidly, whereas the amount of SIPs decreased rapidly. For WSR < 8.4, the main species were the complex structures, and the amount of CIPs and SIPs dropped rapidly. Ab initio quantum chemical calculations showed that the SIPs in the first concentration range were composed of 2 hexahydrate calcium ions and 1 nitrate ion that formed a shared ion pair, SIP‐SIP. The calcium ions were directly bonded with water molecules, and the nitrate ions formed hydrogen bonds with the water molecules. In the second concentration region, the CIPs were each formed by 2 hydrated calcium ions and 1 nitrate ion via monodentate or bidentate coordination with a CIP‐CIP structure. When the WSR was further reduced, a large number of the complex structures such as Comp5 and Comp6 formed in the solution, which were the complex structures [(H2O)nCa2+(NO3−)Ca2+(H2O)m] clustered by C5 or C6.
Laser crystallization of germanium nanowires fabricated by electrochemical deposition
Authors: Gavrilov Sergey A. , Dronov Alexey A. , Gavrilin Ilya M. , Volkov Roman L. , Borgardt Nickolay I. , Trifonov Alexey Yu. , Pavlikov Alexander V. , Forsh Pavel A. , Kashkarov Pavel K.
Published: February 2018

Germanium (Ge) nanowires were fabricated by electrochemical deposition on titanium‐coated silicon substrate. Arrays of nanowires with different mean diameters were obtained using indium nanoparticles of various sizes as centers of nucleation. Raman spectroscopy was used to establish the structural properties of nanowires under different laser excitation intensities. Cycles of measurements with different intensities demonstrated irreversible changes in the structure. Initial study with minimal excitation intensity of 3 W/cm2 displayed that the spectra are descriptive of amorphous Ge. Further study at increased intensities led to the transformation of Raman spectra to the shapes that can be attributed to crystalline Ge. Detailed analysis of spectra shapes for samples with different mean diameters of Ge nanowires after exposure to high intensity laser radiation allows to estimate the fraction of the crystalline phase in Ge nanowires. The spectra of a sample irradiated by He–Ne laser were compared with thermally annealed sample in a vacuum at 150 °C. A similar shape of the obtained spectra indicates on the thermal nature of the effect, which leads to a change in the observed structural properties. This change under even slight heating can be explained by thermal isolation of nanowires from the substrate.
Effects of a wax organogel and alginate gel complex on holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production
Authors: Templeman James R , Rogers Michael A , Cant John P , McBride Brian W , Osborne Vern R
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to: (a) select an ideal organogel for the oil phase of a novel gel encapsulation technology, (b) optimize the formulation of an organogel and sodium alginate‐based gel complex, and (c) examine the rumen protective ability of the gel by measuring 48‐h in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production from encapsulated dried and ground holy basil leaves.

RESULTS

A rice‐bran wax and canola oil organogel was selected for the oil phase of the gel complex as this combination had a 48‐h dry matter disappearance of 6%, the lowest of all organogels analyzed. The gel complex was formulated by homogenizing the organogel with a sodium alginate solution to create a low‐viscosity oil‐in‐water emulsion. Average dry matter disappearance of gel‐encapsulated holy basil was 19%, compared to 42% for the free, unprotected holy basil. However, gel encapsulation of holy basil stimulated gas production. Specifically, gas production of encapsulated holy basil was four times higher than the treatment with holy basil added on top of the gel prior to incubation rather than encapsulated within the gel.

CONCLUSION

Although the gel itself was highly degradable, it is speculated encapsulation thwarted holy basil's antimicrobial activity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Measuring Resilience to Operational Stress in Canadian Armed Forces Personnel
Authors: Hellewell Sarah C. , Cernak Ibolja
Published: February 2018

Adaptability to stress is governed by innate resilience, comprised of complex neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms alongside inherited or learned behavioral traits. Based on their capacity to adapt, some people thrive in stressful situations, whereas others experience maladaptation. In our study, we used state‐of‐the‐art tools to assess the resilience level in individuals, as well as their susceptibility to developing military stress‐induced behavioral and cognitive deficits. To address this complex question, we tested Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel in three distinct stress environments (baselines): during predeployment training, deployment in Afghanistan, and readjustment upon return to Canada. Our comprehensive outcome measures included psychometric tests, saliva biomarkers, and computerized cognitive tests that used the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Test Battery. Participants were categorized based on initial biomarker measurements as being at low‐, moderate‐, or high stress‐maladaptation risk. Biomarkers showed significant changes (ds = 0.56 to 2.44) between baselines, calculated as “delta” changes. Participants at low stress‐maladaptation risk demonstrated minimal changes, whereas those at high stress‐maladaptation risk showed significant biomarker variations. The psychometric patterns and cognitive functions were likewise affected across baselines, suggesting that the panel of saliva stress biomarkers could be a useful tool for determining the risk of stress maladaptation that can cause psychological and cognitive decline.
Tolerance for the Florida panther in exurban southwest Florida
Authors: Rodgers Phillip D. , Pienaar Elizabeth F.
Published: February 2018

Human tolerance for negative interactions with the Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) is an important component of panther conservation efforts. Residents’ tolerance for interactions with Florida panthers in exurban areas has not been explicitly studied, even though the highest number of documented human‐panther interactions has occurred in a single exurban community in Florida (i.e., Golden Gate Estates). We implemented a mail‐based survey in Golden Gate Estates in 2015 to investigate community members’ level of tolerance for the panther. Golden Gate Estates provides a case study for future conservation efforts as panthers recolonize their historical range, and the panther comes into contact with more exurban and residential communities. Based on regression analysis of survey data, we found that individuals with eco‐centric value orientations, individuals who were aware of panthers’ presence in Florida prior to moving to Golden Gate Estates, and individuals who believe that proper animal care protects domestic animals from panthers were more tolerant of the panther. Age, livestock ownership, panther depredation of domestic animals, and risk concern were significant negative determinants of panther tolerance. The majority of respondents were willing to collaborate with neighbors and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to manage panther‐related risks. Our research provides insights into how tolerance for the Florida panther in exurban and residential communities may be secured or improved. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Altering Silk Film Surface Properties through Lotus‐Like Mechanisms
Authors: Lintz Eileen S. , Neinhuis Christoph , Scheibel Thomas
Published: February 2018

The nonwetting and self‐cleaning properties of the lotus depend on microscale and nanoscale roughness provided in part by a covering of epicuticular waxes that crystalize on the surface of its leaves. Wax deposition is driven by the evaporation of water, which carries waxes to the surface as it moves through the epidermis and cuticle. If the wax layer is damaged, repair occurs through the same mechanism. The experiments described herein have exploited this principle to establish a completely biologically derived system based on silk and lotus epicuticular wax, showing that it is possible to coat silk surfaces with waxes and thereby change their wetting characteristics and tensile properties. The robustness of the material is also documented by crystal regrowth after damage to the wax layer through abrasion (scratching and rubbing), resistance to water‐jetting, and UV exposure. To further characterize this system, the diffusion of natural and synthetic waxes through two types of silk films, Bombyx mori fibroin and engineered spider silk are studied, showing that the extent of wax diffusion through silk membranes depends upon wax type and protein structure, which remains unchanged through the process. Making use of the simple passive phenomenon of advection, these studies represent a method of low‐energy fabrication of completely biological, lotus‐inspired membranes with tunable surfaces.
Nonmotor symptoms evolution during 24 months of bilateral subthalamic stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Dafsari Haidar S. , Silverdale Monty , Strack Marian , Rizos Alexandra , Ashkan Keyoumars , Mahlstedt Picabo , Sachse Lena , Steffen Julia , Dembek Till A. , Visser‐Vandewalle Veerle , Evans Julian , Antonini Angelo , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Ray‐Chaudhuri K. , Timmermann Lars ,   on behalf of EUROPAR and the IPMDS Non Motor PD Study Group
Published: February 2018

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate 24‐month of effects of bilateral subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) on nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods: In this prospective, observational, multicenter, international study including 67 PD patients undergoing bilateral STN‐DBS, we examined the Non‐motor Symptom Scale, Non‐Motor Symptoms Questionnaire, Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire‐8, Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease‐motor examination, ‐activities of daily living, and ‐complications, and levodopa‐equivalent daily dose preoperatively and at 5 and 24‐month of follow‐up. After checking distribution normality, longitudinal outcome changes were investigated with Friedman tests or repeated‐measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons using multiple tests. Post hoc, Wilcoxon signed rank t tests were computed to compare visits. The strength of clinical responses was analyzed using effect size. Explorative Spearman correlations of change scores from baseline to 24‐month follow‐up were calculated for all outcomes.

Results: The Non‐motor Symptom Scale and all other outcome parameters significantly improved from baseline to the 5‐month follow‐up. From 5 to 24‐month, partial decrements in these gains were found. Nonetheless, comparing baseline with 24‐month follow‐up, significant improvements were observed for the Non‐motor Symptom Scale (small effect), Scales for Outcomes in PD‐motor examination showed a moderate effect, and Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease‐complications and levodopa‐equivalent daily dose showed large effects. Non‐motor Symptom Scale change scores from baseline to 24‐month follow‐up correlated significantly with Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire‐8, Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease‐activities of daily living, and ‐motor complications change scores.

Conclusions: This study provides evidence of beneficial effects of bilateral STN‐DBS on nonmotor symptoms at 24‐month follow‐up. The extent of nonmotor symptom improvement was directly proportionate to improvements in quality of life, activities of daily living, and motor complications. This study underlines the importance of nonmotor symptoms for holistic assessments of DBS outcomes. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Computer Simulations Reveal a Novel Blocking Mode of the hERG Ion Channel by the Antiarrhythmic Agent Clofilium
Authors: Șterbuleac Daniel , Maniu Călin Lucian
Published: February 2018

The binding modes of many hERG ion channel blockers are well understood, but a notable exception is clofilium, a potent antiarrhythmic agent whose action relies on blocking the current mediated by hERG. From the previously hypothesized binding modes of clofilium to hERG, only two can explain most of the experimental results. In this study, computer simulations are performed in order to analyze the hypothesized binding modes and to identify the consensus one. This is accomplished by employing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and interaction energy calculations. The results show an unexpected binding mode, in which the quaternary nitrogen is placed in the upper part of the inner cavity, interacting strongly with Ser624, while the chlorophenyl group is located in the lower part, in better agreement with previous experimental results. This novel binding position also explains the higher affinity of clofilium for the related hEag1 channel and was correlated with the possibility that potent hERG blockers interact in specific ways with the residues near the intracellular activation gate, offering a new explanation that could help predict the potency of other hERG‐blocking compounds.
Semi‐invariant solutions of the Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Rosenhaus V. , Shankar Ravi , Squellati Cody
Published: February 2018

We present new exact solutions and reduced differential systems of the Navier‐Stokes equations of incompressible viscous fluid flow. We apply the method of semi‐invariant manifolds, introduced earlier as a modification of the Lie invariance method. We show that many known solutions of the Navier‐Stokes equations are, in fact, semi‐invariant and that the reduced differential systems we derive using semi‐invariant manifolds generalize previously obtained results that used ad hoc methods. Many of our semi‐invariant solutions solve decoupled systems in triangular form that are effectively linear. We also obtain several new reductions of Navier‐Stokes to a single nonlinear partial differential equation. In some cases, we can solve reduced systems and generate new analytic solutions of the Navier‐Stokes equations or find their approximations, and physical interpretation.
Existence and multiplicity of nontrivial solutions for nonlinear fractional differential systems with p‐Laplacian via critical point theory
Authors: Li Dongping , Chen Fangqi , An Yukun
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the existence and multiplicity of nontrivial solutions are obtained for nonlinear fractional differential systems with p‐Laplacian by combining the properties of fractional calculus with critical point theory. Firstly, we present a result that a class of p‐Laplacian fractional differential systems exists infinitely many solutions under the famous Ambrosetti‐Rabinowitz condition. Then, a criterion is given to guarantee that the fractional systems exist at least 1 nontrivial solution without satisfying Ambrosetti‐Rabinowitz condition. Our results generalize some existing results in the literature.
Symmetry of heat and mass transfer equations in case of dependence of thermal diffusivity coefficient either on temperature or concentration
Authors: Stepanova Irina V.
Published: February 2018

This paper describes the solution of group classification problem for heat and mass transfer equations with respect to 3 transport coefficients. Two coefficients depend on temperature and concentration, and the thermal diffusivity coefficient is the function of only one of these state parameters. The forms of the arbitrary elements providing the additional transformations are found. Examples of exact solutions of the governing equations are constructed.
Eigenstate versus Zeeman‐based approaches to the solid effect
Authors: Rodríguez‐Arias Inés , Rosso Alberto , De Luca Andrea
Published: February 2018

The solid effect is one of the simplest and most effective mechanisms for dynamic nuclear polarization. It involves the exchange of polarization between one electron and one nuclear spin coupled via the hyperfine interaction. Even for such a small spin system, the theoretical understanding is complicated by the contact with the lattice and the microwave irradiation. Both being weak, they can be treated within perturbation theory. In this work, we analyze the two most popular perturbation schemes: the Zeeman and the eigenstate‐based approaches, which differ in the way the hyperfine interaction is treated. For both schemes, we derive from first principles an effective Liouville equation that describes the density matrix of the spin system; we then study numerically the behavior of the nuclear polarization for several values of the hyperfine coupling. In general, we obtain that the Zeeman‐based approach underestimates the value of the nuclear polarization. By performing a projection onto the diagonal part of the spin‐system density matrix, we are able to understand the origin of the discrepancy, which is due to the presence of parasite leakage transitions appearing whenever the Zeeman basis is employed.
Long term effects of ART: What do animals tell us?
Authors: Duranthon Veronique , Chavatte‐Palmer Pascale
Published: February 2018

Early stages of mammalian embryonic development are now known to be very sensitive to their microenvironment, with long term effects on fetal, postnatal, and adult health, thus extending to these early stages the concept of Developmental Origin of Health and Disease (DoHaD). In this scientific context, and with 3% of births in developed countries, safety of Assisted Reproductive Techniques procedures becomes a matter of concern. Besides, embryo technologies in domestic mammals, using huge number of embryos, do not seem to evidence heavy impacts on adult phenotypes. This paper first discusses what can or cannot be concluded from farm animal data, then develops long term effects of ART procedures (ovarian stimulation, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture) evidenced in model species (mainly mouse model). Recent literature demonstrates both individual and cumulative effects of each ART procedure on fetal and postnatal phenotypes. In a second part, because they are sources for further perturbations, immediate effects of ART on early embryo phenotypes at the cellular and molecular levels are described in both farm animals and model species. Mechanistic hypotheses supporting these ART induced phenotypic alterations are subsequently considered. Finally, taking into account interspecies differences in the mechanisms likely to be involved, the relevance of results obtained in animal models for human ART are discussed.
Myasthenia gravis with muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase antibodies: A narrative review
Authors: Morren John , Li Yuebing
Published: February 2018

Growing evidence provides new insights about myasthenia gravis (MG) with antibodies against muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK‐MG), including its pathogenesis, clinical and electrophysiological manifestations, and treatment. Data now support the presence of both presynaptic and postsynaptic dysfunction in MuSK‐MG. This is 1 of many key differences between MuSK‐MG and acetylcholine receptor antibody‐MG (AChR‐MG), especially as it pertains to potential therapeutic implications. In comparison to AChR‐MG, MuSK‐MG is generally more refractory to treatment. However, because MuSK‐MG is better understood and more readily recognized today, there are more reports of a relatively benign course. The most effective immunotherapies for MuSK‐MG are corticosteroids, plasmapheresis, and rituximab. With appropriate therapy, most patients with MuSK‐MG achieve minimal manifestation status or better on the postintervention status outlined by the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America. A minority of patients remain refractory to treatment, and optimal management for this group remains a considerable challenge. Muscle Nerve 58: 344–358, 2018
Psychometric analysis of the pediatric quality of life inventory 3.0 neuromuscular module administered to patients with duchenne muscular dystrophy: A rasch analysis
Authors: Landfeldt Erik , Mayhew Anna , Straub Volker , Lochmüller Hanns , Bushby Katharine , Lindgren Peter
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Our objective in this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the English (UK and USA) version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 3.0 Neuromuscular Module (PedsQL NMM) administered to patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).Methods: Patients with DMD from the UK and the US completed the PedsQL NMM online. The psychometric properties of the instrument were examined using Rasch analysis.Results: A total of 278 patients completed the PedsQL NMM. Model misfit was identified for 6 of 25 items (item fit residual: mean 0.162, standard deviation [SD] 2.333), 22 of 25 items displayed disordered thresholds, and item dependency was high. The mean person fit residual was estimated at −0.183 (SD 1.475). The Person Separation Index and Cronbach's α were estimated at 0.904 and 0.915, respectively.Discussion: The English version of the PedsQL NMM may not be a valid measure of health‐related quality of life in patients with DMD.Muscle Nerve58: 367–373, 2018
A real‐world experience with augmentation enterocystoplasty—High patient satisfaction with high complication rates
Authors: Wu Shu‐Yu , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: February 2018

Aims

To investigate the real treatment outcomes after augmentation enterocystoplasty (AE) of patients with refractory neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Methods

Retrospective follow‐up in a single center. The videourodynamic data, renal function, incontinence grade, voiding pattern and management, clinical outcome, and complications were evaluated.

Results

Seventy‐nine patients (62 men and 17 women) were included. The mean age at operation was 39.4 ± 11.6 years and the mean follow‐up period was 128.4 ± 85.2 months. At follow‐up, 5 (6.7%) patients had spontaneous voiding, 60 (80%) had to perform clean intermittent catheterization, and 10 (13.3%) chose to keep the indwelling catheter. The catheter‐dependent rate was 93.3% and complete catheter‐dependent rate was 76%. Renal function of the patients did not appear to be significantly different after AE. Three patients developed end‐stage renal disease. The incontinence grade showed significant improvement (P = 0.000). Among all the patients, 41.8% experienced recurrent urinary tract infections requiring medical treatment and 21.5% suffered from chronic diarrhea. Overall, 45.6% of the patients experienced complications requiring surgical interventions, most of which were stones. Life‐threatening complications like bowel obstruction and bladder cancer were also noted. Three patients even expired within one year postoperatively. The majority (86.8%) of patients reported moderate to excellent satisfaction with the outcome of AE.

Conclusions

AE is a procedure with long‐term durability and high rates of patient satisfaction. However, several bothersome complications affecting life quality may occur. Both patients and doctors thus need to consider possible outcomes carefully before the operation.
Pelvimetry in nulliparous and primiparous women using 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hampel Franziska , Hallscheidt Peter , Sohn Christof , Schlehe Bettina , Brocker Kerstin A.
Published: February 2018

Aims

To perform pelvimetry in nulliparous and primiparous women using 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (3T MRI).

Methods

Twenty‐five nulliparous volunteers and 25 primiparous women underwent pelvic 3T MRI within one week after vaginal childbirth in a prospective clinical single‐center trial. The pelvimetric parameters interspinous distance (ISD), intertuberous distance (ITD), sagittal outlet (SO), obstetric conjugate (OC), and coccygeal curved length (CCL) were adapted from anthropometric measurements as well as from sonographic and computed tomography‐based pelvimetry performed on high‐resolution T2‐weighted images. We compared the results of the two study groups to one another, recent literature and postpartum‐diagnosed levator ani muscle (LAM) injuries.

Results

The mean values for primipara/nullipara were ISD 107 ± 8.3/105 ± 8.4 mm, ITD 119.8 ± 10.2/118.4 ± 13.1 mm, OC 129.4 ± 10/130.8 ± 6.9 mm, SO 114.3 ± 7.8/112.5 ± 8.9 mm, and CCL 37.3 ± 7.4/39 ± 8 mm. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were found between the results for OC, SO, and CCL (primipara) and ISD, ITD and OC (nullipara) and the values in the literature. No significant difference in pelvimetric values was found between the groups. A significant correlation was found between the pelvimetric parameters and five types of LAM injuries.

Conclusions

Two‐dimensional 3T MRI combines high‐resolution images with objective pelvimetric measurements applicable in a postpartum setting. Our results provide a good foundation for further MRI‐based studies evaluating the bony pelvis and its relation to LAM injuries during vaginal childbirth.
Virtual Elements for the Reissner‐Mindlin plate problem
Authors: Chinosi Claudia
Published: February 2018

In this work, we present a virtual element method for the approximation of the plate bending problem in the Reissner‐Mindlin formulation. The proposed method follows the MITC approach of the FEM context. We construct a family of VEM spaces with arbitrary degree of accuracy that satisfies the conditions of the MITC philosophy. We perform some numerical tests which allow us to assess the convergence and the robustness of the method.