bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Four cases of death involving the novel synthetic cannabinoid 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE
Authors: Giorgetti Arianna , Mogler Lukas , Halter Sebastian , Haschimi Belal , Alt Andreas , Rentsch Daniel , Schmidt Bea , Thoma Vanessa , Vogt Susanne , Auwärter Volker
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Cumyl-PEGACLONE was the first synthetic cannabinoid (SC) with a γ-carbolinone core structure detected in forensic casework and, since then, it has dominated the German SC-market. Here the first four cases of death involving its fluorinated analog, 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE, a recently emerged γ-carbolinone derived SC, are reported.

Methods

Complete postmortem examinations were performed. Postmortem samples were screened by immunoassay, gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC–MS) or liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. For quantification of SCs, the standard addition method was employed. Herbal blends were analyzed by GC–MS. In each case of death, the Toxicological Significance Score (TSS) was assigned to the compound.

Results

5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE was identified at concentrations ranging 0.09–0.45 ng/mL in postmortem femoral blood. In case 1, signs of hypothermia and kidney bleedings were noted. Despite a possible tolerance due to long term SC use, a TSS of 3 was assigned. In case 2, an acute heroin intoxication occurred and a contributory role (TSS = 1) of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE was suggested. In case 3, a prisoner was found dead. GC–MS analysis of herbal blends, retrieved in his cell together with paraphernalia, confirmed the presence of 5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE and a causative role was deemed probable (TSS = 2). In case 4, the aspiration of gastric content due to a SC-induced coma was observed (TSS = 3).

Conclusions

5F-Cumyl-PEGACLONE is an emerging and extremely potent SC which raises serious public health concerns. A comprehensive analysis of circumstantial, clinical, and postmortem findings, as well as an in-depth toxicological analysis is necessary for a valid interpretation and for the assessment of the toxicological significance.
Simulation on hydrodynamics of non-spherical particulate system using a drag coefficient correlation based on artificial neural network
Authors: Yan Sheng-Nan , Wang Tian-Yu , Tang Tian-Qi , Ren An-Xing , He Yu-Rong
Published: December 2019

Fluidization of non-spherical particles is very common in petroleum engineering. Understanding the complex phenomenon of non-spherical particle flow is of great significance. In this paper, coupled with two-fluid model, the drag coefficient correlation based on artificial neural network was applied in the simulations of a bubbling fluidized bed filled with non-spherical particles. The simulation results were compared with the experimental data from the literature. Good agreement between the experimental data and the simulation results reveals that the modified drag model can accurately capture the interaction between the gas phase and solid phase. Then, several cases of different particles, including tetrahedron, cube, and sphere, together with the nylon beads used in the model validation, were employed in the simulations to study the effect of particle shape on the flow behaviors in the bubbling fluidized bed. Particle shape affects the hydrodynamics of non-spherical particles mainly on microscale. This work can be a basis and reference for the utilization of artificial neural network in the investigation of drag coefficient correlation in the dense gas–solid two-phase flow. Moreover, the proposed drag coefficient correlation provides one more option when investigating the hydrodynamics of non-spherical particles in the gas–solid fluidized bed.
Plasma biomarkers of astrocytic and neuronal dysfunction in early‐ and late‐onset Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Elahi Fanny M. , Casaletto Kaitlin B. , La Joie Renaud , Walters Samantha M. , Harvey Danielle , Wolf Amy , Edwards Lauren , Rivera‐Contreras Wilfredo , Karydas Anna , Cobigo Yann , Rosen Howard J. , DeCarli Charles , Miller Bruce L. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Kramer Joel H.
Published: December 2019

Introduction

We investigated plasma proteomic markers of astrocytopathy, brain degeneration, plasticity, and inflammation in sporadic early‐onset versus late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD and LOAD).

Methods

Plasma was analyzed using ultra‐sensitive immuno‐based assays from 33 EOAD, 30 LOAD, and 36 functionally normal older adults.

Results

Principle component analyses identified 3 factors: trophic (BDNF, VEGF, TGFβ), degenerative (GFAP, NfL), and inflammatory (TNFα, IL‐6, IP‐10, IL‐10). Trophic factor was elevated in both AD groups and associated with cognition and gray matter volumes. Degenerative factor was elevated in EOAD, with higher levels associated with worse functioning in this group. Biomarkers of inflammation were not significantly different between groups and were only associated with age.

Disucssion

Plasma proteomic biomarkers provide novel means of investigating molecular processes in vivo and their contributions to clinical outcomes. We present initial investigations of several of these fluid biomarkers, capturing aspects of astrocytopathy, neuronal injury, cellular plasticity, and inflammation in EOAD versus LOAD.
A new APP for prevention and treatment of complications of intestinal peristomal skin
Authors: Cardoso Imaculada Aparecida , Salomé Geraldo Magela , Miranda Flávio Dutra , Alves José Ronaldo , Leão João Paulo Pereira , Leão Alex Sandro , Mendonça Adriana Rodrigues dos Anjos
Published: December 2019

Objectives To develop an application program for prevention and treatment of complications of intestinal peristomal skin.

Method The framework of the application software development were: Phase 1 – “Design, identification of the needs for the application development”: In this phase, the authors identified during their clinical practice that some professionals and caregivers find it difficult to provide care for at-risk ostomized patients or those with some kind of peristomal skin complication; Phase 2 – “Application prototype development”: this phase included the integrative literature review in the main databases; Phase 3 – “Creating the application”: this phase was intended to generate a decision tree algorithms, structure the database, and develop the software; Phase 4 – “Transition”: performing the application functionality testing.

Results The application “Dermatite Periestoma App” has 36 screens and 21 figures describing the procedures for prevention and treatment of complications of intestinal peristomal skin. It is freely available from the Play Store and has been registered with the Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial Ministério do Desenvolvimento, indústria e Comércio Exterior (Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade, National Institute of Industrial Property).

Conclusion This study made it possible to describe the stages of planning and development of the mobile application “Dermatite Periestoma App”. The steps taken indicate that the “Dermatite Periestoma App” has great potential for clinical practice in the evaluation of patients with stomal complications or at risk for developing peristomal skin complications, preventive measures, therapeutic approaches, and for nursing education through the use of technology.
Heat Waves Born of Earth and Sky
Authors: Sima Richard
Published: December 2019

Researchers use computer simulations to uncover the significant contributions that dry soil and atmospheric wind patterns make to major heat waves.
Observed Deep‐Reaching Signatures of the Madden‐Julian Oscillation in the Ocean Circulation of the Western Tropical Pacific
Authors: Song Lina , Li Yuanlong , Liu Chuanyu , Wang Fan , Wang Jianing
Published: December 2019

Prominent intraseasonal variability (ISV) of ocean currents was detected by two subsurface moorings deployed at 140°E, 2°N, and 4.7°N during 2014–2018 and shown to be largely induced by westerly wind bursts (WWBs) associated with passages of Madden‐Julian oscillations (MJOs). The North Equatorial Countercurrent between 60 and 200 m is enhanced (attenuated) by 6–8 cm/s prior (subsequent) to the WWB. Current anomalies below 300 m are as large as 2–3 cm/s, close in magnitude to the mean velocities of the North Equatorial Subsurface Current and North Subsurface Countercurrent. The ISV in the upper 600 m shows a vertical dipole structure at 2°N and vertically coherent anomalies at 4.7°N. Further analysis combining satellite data reveals local recirculation structures generated by wind‐forced Rossby waves. Ocean model experiments confirm the importance of the MJO's wind forcing in causing these subsurface ocean ISVs.
Magnetized Dust Clouds Penetrating the Terrestrial Bow Shock Detected by Multiple Spacecraft
Authors: Lai H. R. , Russell C. T. , Jia Y. D. , Connors M.
Published: December 2019

Clouds of charged nanometer dust, produced in intra‐meteoroid collisions and accelerated by the magnetized solar wind, twist the interplanetary magnetic field as they are accelerated. Depending on the cloud size, minutes to hours‐long perturbations are observed by interplanetary spacecraft and have been termed interplanetary field enhancements (IFEs). This dust‐solar wind interaction hypothesis is supported by reconstructed magnetic field geometry using IFEs detected nearly simultaneously by multiple spacecraft. On 16 January 2018, an IFE was observed by eight spacecraft in the solar wind and later by four spacecraft in the magnetosheath, after the IFE crossed the bow shock. The post‐shock magnetic field geometry differed from that in the solar wind in a way compatible with the dust cloud having interacted with the shocked solar wind. These observations of dust clouds surfing in the solar wind show us how submicron‐sized interplanetary dust is transported and ultimately expelled from the solar system.
High‐Resolution Ocean Wave and Wind Characteristics Determined by the ICESat‐2 Land Surface Algorithm
Authors: Klotz Bradley W. , Neuenschwander Amy , Magruder Lori A.
Published: December 2019

The Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite 2 (ICESat‐2) is a revolutionary remote sensing tool designed to provide high‐resolution height estimates of the Earth's surface. The photon counting LiDAR instrument onboard collects data over various surfaces and provides detailed information on regions where present observations are sparse or nonexistent. ICESat‐2 is initiating a wave of new science, and this study examines a methodology for deriving ocean surface wave and wind characteristics. Using a modified version of the ICESat‐2 land surface algorithm, individual waves are mapped along the ICESat‐2 track. Significant wave features, associated ocean wind speed, and wave energy spectra are determined from the ocean data. Validation against trustworthy data sources indicate the root mean squared error of significant wave heights is 0.3 m and is 2.4 m s−1 for wind speed. Wave spectra are more variable but peak swell and wind seas generally agree within ±8–13% of buoy estimates.
Can Tidal Forcing Alone Generate a GM‐Like Internal Wave Spectrum?
Authors: Chen Zhiwu , Chen Shaomin , Liu Zhiyu , Xu Jiexin , Xie Jieshuo , He Yinghui , Cai Shuqun
Published: December 2019

An idealized two‐dimensional numerical model is utilized to study internal wave generation by tide‐topography interaction and wind forcing. Previous studies suggest that the quasi‐universal Garrett‐Munk (GM) internal wave spectrum can be generated and maintained only when energy is supplied from both the wind and the tides, while the present study shows that M2 tidal forcing alone is sufficient to generate a GM‐like spectrum in a latitude band roughly between 17° and 29°, with the steepness parameter ε > 1, N0h0/u0 > 1 (N0 is buoyancy frequency, h0 topographic height, and u0 tidal amplitude), and a finite excursion parameter. The key lies in the generation of near‐inertial waves (NIWs) by breaking internal tides and triadic resonant interactions around supercritical topography. Remarkably, in the northern South China Sea, tidal forcing can contribute a comparable amount of near‐inertial energy as that contributed by the summer wind and thus is an important NIW generation mechanism.
Evaporation of a sessile droplet on a slope
Authors: Timm Mitchel L. , Dehdashti Esmaeil , Jarrahi Darban Amir , Masoud Hassan
Published: December 2019

We theoretically examine the drying of a stationary liquid droplet on an inclined surface. Both analytical and numerical approaches are considered, while assuming that the evaporation results from the purely diffusive transport of liquid vapor and that the contact line is a pinned circle. For the purposes of the analytical calculations, we suppose that the effect of gravity relative to the surface tension is weak, i.e. the Bond number (Bo) is small. Then, we express the shape of the drop and the vapor concentration field as perturbation expansions in terms of Bo. When the Bond number is zero, the droplet is unperturbed by the effect of gravity and takes the form of a spherical cap, for which the vapor concentration field is already known. Here, the Young-Laplace equation is solved analytically to calculate the first-order correction to the shape of the drop. Knowing the first-order perturbation to the drop geometry and the zeroth-order distribution of vapor concentration, we obtain the leading-order contribution of gravity to the rate of droplet evaporation by utilizing Green’s second identity. The analytical results are supplemented by numerical calculations, where the droplet shape is first determined by minimizing the Helmholtz free energy and then the evaporation rate is computed by solving Laplace’s equation for the vapor concentration field via a finite-volume method. Perhaps counter-intuitively, we find that even when the droplet deforms noticeably under the influence of gravity, the rate of evaporation remains almost unchanged, as if no gravitational effect is present. Furthermore, comparison between analytical and numerical calculations reveals that considering only the leading-order corrections to the shape of the droplet and vapor concentration distribution provides estimates that are valid well beyond their intended limit of very small Bo.
Fe-doped mayenite electride composite with 2D reduced Graphene Oxide: As a non-platinum based, highly durable electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Khan Karim , Tareen Ayesha Khan , Aslam Muhammad , Ali Khan Sayed , khan Qasim , Khan Qudrat Ullah , Saeed Muhammad , Siddique Saleemi Awais , Kiani Maryam , Ouyang Zhengbiao , Zhang Han , Guo Zhongyi
Published: December 2019

Since the last decades, non-precious metal catalysts (NPMC), especially iron based electrocatalysts show sufficient activity, potentially applicant in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), however they only withstand considerable current densities at low operating potentials. On the other hand iron based electrocatalysts are not stable at elevated cathode potentials, which is essential for high energy competence, and its remains difficult to deal. Therefore, via this research a simple approach is demonstrated that allows synthesis of nanosize Fe-doped mayenite electride, [Ca24Al28O64]4+·(e−)4 (can also write as, C12A7−xFex:e−, where doping level, x = 1) (thereafter, Fe-doped C12A7:e−), consist of abundantly available elements with gram level powder material production, based on simple citrate sol-gel method. The maximum achieved conductivity of this first time synthesized Fe-doped C12A7:e− composite materials was 249 S/cm. Consequently, Fe-doped C12A7:e− composite is cost-effective, more active and highly durable precious-metal free electrocatalyst, with 1.03 V onset potential, 0.89 V (RHE) half-wave potential, and ~5.9 mA/cm2 current density, which is higher than benchmark 20% Pt/C (5.65 mA/cm2, and 0.84 V). The Fe-doped C12A7:e− has also higher selectivity for desired 4e− pathway, and more stable than 20 wt% Pt/C electrode with higher immunity towards methanol poisoning. Fe-doped C12A7:e− loses was almost zero of its original activity after passing 11 h compared to the absence of methanol case, indicates that to introduce methanol has almost negligible consequence for ORR performance, which makes it highly desirable, precious-metal free electrocatalyst in ORR. This is primarily described due to coexistence of Fe-doped C12A7:e− related active sites with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with pyridinic-nitrogen, and their strong coupling consequence along their porous morphology textures. These textures assist rapid diffusion of molecules to catalyst active sites quickly. In real system maximum power densities reached to 243 and 275 mW/cm2 for Pt/C and Fe-doped C12A7:e− composite, respectively.
Quantitative peel test for thin films/layers based on a coupled parametric and statistical study
Authors: Rezaee Maysam , Tsai Li-Chih , Haider Muhammad Istiaque , Yazdi Armin , Sanatizadeh Ehsan , Salowitz Nathan P.
Published: December 2019

The adhesion strength of thin films is critical to the durability of micro and nanofabricated devices. However, current testing methods are imprecise and do not produce quantitative results necessary for design specifications. The most common testing methods involve the manual application and removal of unspecified tape. This overcome many of the challenges of connecting to thin films to test their adhesion properties but different tapes, variation in manual application, and poorly controlled removal of tape can result in wide variation in resultant forces. Furthermore, the most common tests result in a qualitative ranking of film survival, not a measurement with scientific units. This paper presents a study into application and peeling parameters that can cause variation in the peeling force generated by tapes. The results of this study were then used to design a test methodology that would control the key parameters and produced repeatable quantitative measurements. Testing using the resulting method showed significant improvement over more standard methods, producing measured results with reduced variation. The new method was tested on peeling a layer of paint from a PTFE backing and was found to be sensitive enough to register variation in force due to differing peeling mechanisms within a single test.
An Evolutionary Game Model with Punishment and Protection to Promote Trust in the Sharing Economy
Authors: Chica Manuel , Chiong Raymond , Adam Marc T. P. , Teubner Timm
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we present an evolutionary trust game, taking punishment and protection into consideration, to investigate the formation of trust in the so-called sharing economy from a population perspective. This sharing economy trust model comprises four types of players: a trustworthy provider, an untrustworthy provider, a trustworthy consumer, and an untrustworthy consumer. Punishment in the form of penalty for untrustworthy providers and protection in the form of insurance for consumers are mechanisms adopted to prevent untrustworthy behaviour. Through comprehensive simulation experiments, we evaluate dynamics of the population for different initial population setups and effects of having penalty and insurance in place. Our results show that each player type influences the ‘existence’ and ‘survival’ of other types of players, and untrustworthy players do not necessarily dominate the population even when the temptation to defect (i.e., to be untrustworthy) is high. Additionally, we observe that imposing a heavier penalty or having insurance for all consumers (trustworthy and untrustworthy) can be counterproductive for promoting trustworthiness in the population and increasing the global net wealth. Our findings have important implications for understanding trust in the context of the sharing economy, and for clarifying the usefulness of protection policies within it.
Morphological stasis in the first myxomycete from the Mesozoic, and the likely role of cryptobiosis
Authors: Rikkinen Jouko , Grimaldi David A. , Schmidt Alexander R.
Published: December 2019

Myxomycetes constitute a group within the Amoebozoa well known for their motile plasmodia and morphologically complex fruiting bodies. One obstacle hindering studies of myxomycete evolution is that their fossils are exceedingly rare, so evolutionary analyses of this supposedly ancient lineage of amoebozoans are restricted to extant taxa. Molecular data have significantly advanced myxomycete systematics, but the evolutionary history of individual lineages and their ecological adaptations remain unknown. Here, we report exquisitely preserved myxomycete sporocarps in amber from Myanmar, ca. 100 million years old, one of the few fossil myxomycetes, and the only definitive Mesozoic one. Six densely-arranged stalked sporocarps were engulfed in tree resin while young, with almost the entire spore mass still inside the sporotheca. All morphological features are indistinguishable from those of the modern, cosmopolitan genusStemonitis, demonstrating that sporocarp morphology has been static since at least the mid-Cretaceous. The ability of myxomycetes to develop into dormant stages, which can last years, may account for the phenotypic stasis between livingStemonitisspecies and this fossil one, similar to the situation found in other organisms that have cryptobiosis. We also interpretStemonitismorphological stasis as evidence of strong environmental selection favouring the maintenance of adaptations that promote wind dispersal.
Publisher Correction: In silico prediction of housekeeping long intergenic non-coding RNAs reveals HKlincR1 as an essential player in lung cancer cell survival
Authors: Memon Danish , Bi Jing , Miller Crispin J.
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher Correction: In Utero Gene Therapy (IUGT) Using GLOBE Lentiviral Vector Phenotypically Corrects the Heterozygous Humanised Mouse Model and Its Progress Can Be Monitored Using MRI Techniques
Authors: Shangaris Panicos , Loukogeorgakis Stavros P. , Subramaniam Sindhu , Flouri Christina , Jackson Laurence H. , Wang Wei , Blundell Michael P. , Liu Shanrun , Eaton Simon , Bakhamis Nahla , Ramachandra Durrgah Latchumi , Maghsoudlou Panayiotis , Urbani Luca , Waddington Simon N. , Eddaoudi Ayad , Archer Joy , Antoniou Michael N. , Stuckey Daniel J. , Schmidt Manfred , Thrasher Adrian J. , Ryan Thomas M. , De Coppi Paolo , David Anna L.
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Author Correction: Dentate granule and mossy cells exhibit distinct spatiotemporal responses to local change in a one-dimensional landscape of visual-tactile cues
Authors: Jung Dajung , Kim Soyoun , Sariev Anvar , Sharif Farnaz , Kim Daesoo , Royer Sebastien
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
‘Free’ inhibin α subunit is expressed by bovine ovarian theca cells and its knockdown suppresses androgen production
Authors: Laird Mhairi , Glister Claire , Cheewasopit Warakorn , Satchell Leanne S. , Bicknell Andrew B. , Knight Phil G.
Published: December 2019

Inhibins are ovarian dimeric glycoprotein hormones that suppress pituitary FSH production. They are synthesised by follicular granulosa cells as α plus βA/βB subunits (encoded by INHA, INHBA, INHBB, respectively). Inhibin concentrations are high in follicular fluid (FF) which is also abundant in ‘free’ α subunit, presumed to be of granulosal origin, but its role(s) remains obscure. Here, we report the unexpected finding that bovine theca cells show abundant INHA expression and ‘free’ inhibin α production. Thus, theca cells may contribute significantly to the inhibin α content of FF and peripheral blood. In vitro, knockdown of thecal INHA inhibited INSL3 and CYP17A1 expression and androgen production while INSL3 knockdown reduced INHA and inhibin α secretion. These findings suggest a positive role of thecal inhibin α on androgen production. However, exogenous inhibin α did not raise androgen production. We hypothesised that inhibin α may modulate the opposing effects of BMP and inhibin on androgen production. However, this was not supported experimentally. Furthermore, neither circulating nor intrafollicular androgen concentrations differed between control and inhibin α-immunized heifers, casting further doubt on thecal inhibin α subunit having a significant role in modulating androgen production. Role(s), if any, played by thecal inhibin α remain elusive.
Biochemical adaptation in brain Acetylcholinesterase during acclimation to sub-lethal temperatures in the eurythermal fish Tilapia mossambica
Authors: Aswani Vijay , Trabucco David
Published: December 2019

Tilapia mossambicais a eurythermal tropical fish. We studied the effect of temperature on the kinetics of brain Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) during adaptation to sublethal temperatures by acclimating the fish to 37 °C, and controls to 25 °C. Electrophoresis showed the presence of two AChE bands that did not change in position or intensity with acclimation period or temperature. The apparent Kmwas 0.23 ± 0.01 mM ATChI and remained relatively constant over thein vitroassay temperature range 10 °C to 40 °C. Biochemical characterization suggested that the enzyme is a ‘eurytolerant protein’ in its stability of kinetic and thermal properties over a wide temperature range. Thermal stability and arrhenius plots suggested that the AChE was made up of two forms that differed in their thermal properties.The two molecular forms of acetylcholinesterase were purified from the brain ofT. mossambica. Molecular weight studies revealed that the two forms were size isomers: a monomer of 59 KDa and a tetramer of 244 KDa. They differed in their Kms, thermal stabilities and energies of activation. We suggest that biochemical adaptation to temperature in the brain acetylcholinerase system of the fishTilapia mossambicais based on the aggregation-dissociation of these size isomers.
Plasmonic Nanolenses Produced by Cylindrical Vector Beam Printing for Sensing Applications
Authors: Syubaev S. A. , Zhizhchenko A. Yu. , Pavlov D. V. , Gurbatov S. O. , Pustovalov E. V. , Porfirev A. P. , Khonina S. N. , Kulinich S. A. , Rayappan J. B. B. , Kudryashov S. I. , Kuchmizhak A. A.
Published: December 2019

Interaction of complex-shaped light fields with specially designed plasmonic nanostructures gives rise to various intriguing optical phenomena like nanofocusing of surface waves, enhanced nonlinear optical response and appearance of specific low-loss modes, which can not be excited with ordinary Gaussian-shaped beams. Related complex-shaped nanostructures are commonly fabricated using rather expensive and time-consuming electron- and ion-beam lithography techniques limiting real-life applicability of such an approach. In this respect, plasmonic nanostructures designed to benefit from their excitation with complex-shaped light fields, as well as high-performing techniques allowing inexpensive and flexible fabrication of such structures, are of great demand for various applications. Here, we demonstrate a simple direct maskless laser-based approach for fabrication of back-reflector-coupled plasmonic nanorings arrays. The approach is based on delicate ablation of an upper metal film of a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) sandwich with donut-shaped laser pulses followed by argon ion-beam polishing. After being excited with a radially polarized beam, the MIM configuration of the nanorings permitted to realize efficient nanofocusing of constructively interfering plasmonic waves excited in the gap area between the nanoring and back-reflector mirror. For optimized MIM geometry excited by radially polarized CVB, substantial enhancement of the electromagnetic near-fields at the center of the ring within a single focal spot with the size of 0.37λ2 can be achieved, which is confirmed by Finite Difference Time Domain calculations, as well as by detection of 100-fold enhanced photoluminescent signal from adsorbed organic dye molecules. Simple large-scale and cost-efficient fabrication procedure offering also a freedom in the choice of materials to design MIM structures, along with remarkable optical and plasmonic characteristics of the produced structures make them promising for realization of various nanophotonic and biosensing platforms that utilize cylindrical vector beam as a pump source.
Effect of plateletpheresis on hematocrit, hemoglobin and erythrocyte count: Meta-analysis 1980–2018
Authors: Gil-Betacur Alejandro , Mantilla-Gutiérrez Carmen Yulieth , Cardona-Arias Jaiberth Antonio
Published: December 2019

The effects of platelet donation by apheresis on different parameters of the erythrogram are still unclear. The objective was to meta-analyze the effect of plateletpheresis on hematocrit, hemoglobin, and erythrocyte count, with a systematic review with random effects meta-analysis of the mean difference. The PRISMA guidelines were considered, as well as 133 search strategies on four different databases. Reproducibility was guaranteed and methodological quality was evaluated. Heterogeneity was evaluated with Galbraith and DerSimonian-Laird’s, publication bias with a funnel plot and a Begg’s test, sensitivity analysis and a cumulative meta-analysis were also conducted. Eighteen (18) articles were included, 17 evaluated the effects on hematocrit in 2,564 donors; 13 on hemoglobin in 1,640 donors; and 4 on red blood cell count in 243 donors. A decrease of 2.26% (CI95% = 2.11–2.41) was observed in hematocrit, of 0.80 g/dL (CI95% = 0.75–0.86) in hemoglobin and −0.21 × 1012/L (CI95% = −0.13; −0.29) in red blood cell count. Plateletpheresis has a negative effect on the erythrogram parameters, explained by blood loss in the kits used for the procedure and cell lysis. Such evidence is relevant to secure the efficiency and safety of the procedure, improve selection processes or determine the number of donations that can be performed without affecting donors’ health.
Neural and behavioral changes driven by observationally-induced hypoalgesia
Authors: Raghuraman Nandini , Wang Yang , Schenk Lieven A. , Furman Andrew J. , Tricou Christina , Seminowicz David A. , Colloca Luana
Published: December 2019

Observing successful pain treatment in others can induce anticipatory neural processes that, in turn, relieve pain. Previous studies have suggested that social learning and observation influence placebo hypoalgesia. Here, we used electroencephalography (EEG) to determine the neurophysiological changes associated with pain relief acquired through the observation. Thirty-one participants observed a demonstrator undergo painful heat stimulations paired with a “control” cream and non-painful ones paired with a “treatment” cream, which actually were both Vanicreams. After their observation, the participants then received the same creams and stimulations. We found that the treatment cream led to lower self-reported pain intensity ratings than the control cream. Anticipatory treatment cues elicited smaller P2 in electrodes F1, Fz, FC1, and FCz than the control condition. The P2 component localization indicated a higher current density in the right middle frontal gyrus, a region associated with attentional engagement. In placebo responders, the sensorimotor cortex activity captured in electrodes C3, Cz, and C4 indicated that hypoalgesia was positively correlated with resting state peak alpha frequency (PAF). These results suggest that observationally-induced placebo hypoalgesia may be driven by anticipatory mechanisms that modulate frontal attentional processes. Furthermore, resting state PAF could serve as a predictor of observationally-induced hypoalgesia.
Effects of Simulated Gravel on Hydraulic Characteristics of Overland Flow Under Varying Flow Discharges, Slope Gradients and Gravel Coverage Degrees
Authors: Liu Xiaona , Fan Dengxing , Yu Xinxiao , Liu Ziqiang , Sun Jiamei
Published: December 2019

To quantify the hydraulic characteristics of overland flow on gravel-covered slopes, eight flow discharges (Q) (8.44–122 L/min), five slope gradients (J) (2°–10°) and four gravel coverage degrees (Cr) (0–30%) were examined via a laboratory flume. The results showed that (1) gravel changed flow regime. Gravel increased the Reynolds number (Re) by 2.94–33.03%. Re were less affected by J and positively correlated with Cr and Q. Gravel decreased the Froude number (Fr) by 6.83–77.31%. Fr was positively correlated with Q and J and negatively correlated with Cr. (2) Gravel delayed the flow velocity (u) and increased the flow depth (h) and flow resistance (f). Gravel reduced u by 1.20–58.95%. u was positively correlated with Q and J and negatively correlated with Cr. Gravel increased h by 0.12–2.41 times. h was positively correlated with Q and Cr and negatively correlated with J. Gravel increased f by 0.15–18.42 times. f were less affected by J, positively correlated with Cr and negatively correlated with Q. (3) The relationships between hydraulic parameters and Q, J and Cr identified good power functions. Hydraulic parameters were mainly affected by Cr. These results can guide the ecological construction of soil and water conservation.
FABP4 and MMP9 levels identified as predictive factors for poor prognosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver using data mining approaches and gene expression analysis
Authors: Coilly Audrey , Desterke Christophe , Guettier Catherine , Samuel Didier , Chiappini Franck
Published: December 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) may progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and ultimately to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Prognostic markers for these conditions are poorly defined. The aim of this study was to identify predictive gene markers for the transition from NAFL to NASH and then to poorer conditions. Gene expression omnibus datasets associated with a prediction analysis algorithm were used to create a matrix composed of control subject (n = 52), healthy obese (n = 51), obese with NAFL (n = 42) and NASH patients (n = 37) and 19,085 genes in order to identify specific genes predictive of the transition from steatosis to NASH and from NASH to cirrhosis and HCC and thus patients at high risk of complications. A validation cohort was used to validate these results. We identified two genes, fatty acid binding protein-4 (FABP4) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), which respectively allowed distinguishing patients at risk of progression from NAFL to NASH and from NASH to cirrhosis and HCC. Thus, NAFL patients expressing high hepatic levels of FABP4 and NASH patients expressing high hepatic levels of MMP9 are likely to experience disease progression. Therefore, using FABP4 and MMP9 as blood markers could help to predict poor outcomes and/or progression of NAFL during clinical trial follow-up.
Effect of biodegradable chelators on induced phytoextraction of uranium- and cadmium- contaminated soil by Zebrina pendula Schnizl
Authors: Chen Li , Wang Dan , Long Chan , Cui Zheng-xu
Published: December 2019

This study investigated the effect of ethylenediamine-N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS), oxalic acid (OA), and citric acid (CA) on phytoextraction of U- and Cd-contaminated soil by Z. pendula. In this study, the biomass of tested plant inhibited significantly following treatment with the high concentration (7.5 mmol·kg−1) EDDS treatment. Maximum U and Cd concentration in the single plant was observed with the 5 mmol·kg−1 CA and 7.5 mmol·kg−1 EDDS treatment, respectively, whereas OA treatments had the lowest U and Cd uptake. The translocation factors of U and Cd reached the maximum in the 5 mmol·kg−1 EDDS. The maximum bioaccumulation of U and Cd in the single plants was 1032.14 µg and 816.87 µg following treatment with 5 mmol·kg−1 CA treatment, which was 6.60- and 1.72-fold of the control groups, respectively. Furthermore, the resultant rank order for available U and Cd content in the soil was CA > EDDS > OA (U) and EDDS > CA > OA (Cd). These results suggested that CA could greater improve the capacity of phytoextraction using Z. pendula in U- and Cd- contaminated soils.
Assessment of the hepatoprotective effect of developed lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs) encapsulating naturally extracted β-Sitosterol against CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity in rats
Authors: Abdou Ebtsam M. , Fayed Marwa A. A. , Helal Doaa , Ahmed Kawkab A.
Published: December 2019

The hepatoprotective effect of β-Sitosterol (BSS), a natural phytosterol, after being formulated into a suitable pharmaceutical drug delivery system has not been widely explored. BSS was isolated from Centaurea pumilio L., identified and formulated as lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs) using the poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) polymer and DSPE-PEG-2000 lipid in different ratios. The selected formulation, prepared with a lipid: polymer: drug ratio of 2:2:2, had an entrapment efficiency (EE%) of 94.42 ± 3.8, particle size of 181.5 ± 11.3 nm, poly dispersity index (PDI) of 0.223 ± 0.06, zeta potential of −37.34 ± 3.21 and the highest drug release after 24 h. The hepatoprotective effect of the formulation at two different doses against CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity was evaluated in rats. The results showed that the BSS-LPHNPs (400 mg/kg) have the ability to restore the liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)), liver lipid peroxidation markers (malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT)), total bilirubin and albumin to their normal levels without inhibitory effect on the CYP2E1 activity. Also, the formulation could maintain the normal histological structure of liver tissue and decrease the cleaved caspase-3 expression. LPHNPs formulation encapsulating natural BSS is a promising hepatoprotective drug delivery system.
Evidence of health inequity in child survival: spatial and Bayesian network analyses of stillbirth rates in 194 countries
Authors: Adeyinka Daniel Adedayo , Olakunde Babayemi Oluwaseun , Muhajarine Nazeem
Published: December 2019

Estimated at 2.6 million annually, stillbirths worldwide have stayed alarmingly high, in contrast to neonatal and under-five mortality rates. It is a neglected public health challenge globally, with less attention to its social determinants. We examined spatial patterns of country-level stillbirth rates and determined the influence of social determinants of health on spatial patterns of stillbirth rates. We also estimated probabilistic relationships between stillbirth rates and significant determinants from the spatial analysis. Using country-level aggregated data from the United Nations databases, it employed ecological spatial analysis and artificial intelligence modeling based on Bayesian network among 194 World Health Organization member countries. From the spatial analysis, thirty-seven countries formed a cluster of high values (hot-spots) for stillbirth and 13 countries formed a cluster of low values (cold-spots). In the multivariate regression, gender inequality and anaemia in pregnancy were significantly associated with spatial patterns of higher stillbirth rates, while higher antenatal care (ANC) coverage and skilled birth attendants during delivery were associated with clusters of lower stillbirth rates. The Bayesian network model suggests strong dependencies between stillbirth rate and gender inequality index, geographic regions and skilled birth attendants during delivery. The Bayesian network predicted that the probability of low stillbirth rate increased from 56% to 100% when the percentage of countries with high skilled birth attendants during delivery increased from 70% to 88%, high ANC coverage increased from 55% to 70%, high prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy decreased from 27% to 11% and high gender inequality index decreased from 43% to 21%. Recognizing the urgency in reducing stillbirths globally, multi-pronged strategies should be designed to promote gender equality and strengthen the reproductive and maternal health services in Africa, Eastern Mediterranean, South Eastern Asia, and other countries with disproportionately high stillbirth rates.
Neurometabolic Remodeling in Chronic Hiv Infection: a Five-Year Follow-up Multi-Voxel Mrs Study
Authors: Boban Jasmina , Thurnher Majda M. , Brkic Snezana , Lendak Dajana , Bugarski Ignjatovic Vojislava , Todorovic Aleksandar , Kozic Dusko
Published: December 2019

There is a lack of data about the long-term follow-up changes in neurometabolic profile and neuropsychological performance of HIV-positive subjects under continuous antiretroviral therapy (cART). The aim of the study was to assess changes in neurometabolic profile in chronically-infected, HIV-positive subjects during a five-year follow-up period, using multi-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). Nineteen neurologically asymptomatic, aviremic, HIV-positive subjects, underwent multi-voxel 2D MRS on a 3 T MR unit and synchronous neurocognitive assessment in a five-year follow-up period. Twelve voxels were placed in prefrontal cortices, anterior and posterior cingulate gyrus, intraparietal sulci, and frontal centrum semiovale white matter, to identify peaks of N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA), creatine (Cr), choline (Cho), and myoinositol (mI). Ratios of NAA/Cr, NAA/Cho, NAA/mI, mI/Cr, and Cho/Cr were analyzed. Longitudinal differences in ratios and neurocognitive scores were tested with the Wilcoxon signed-rank-test. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.004 significant, and 0.05 > p > 0.004 trending toward significance. A significant longitudinal increase in NAA/Cr ratio was observed in 5/12 voxels, while there was a trend toward significance in an additional three. The increase in Cho/Cr reached statistical significance in one voxel. Changes in the mI/Cr ratio demonstrated a significant increase in 4/12 voxels. A progressive increase in NAA/Cr, followed by better neurocognitive performance, may be an indicator of brain plasticity in the setting of chronic HIV-related neuronal injury. A progressive mI/Cr increase could be partly explained by glial proliferation due to functional compartment remodeling and partly attributable to insufficient control of persistent neuroinflammation by cART.
Publisher Correction: Functional genomic characterization of metallothioneins in brown trout (Salmo trutta L.). using synthetic genetic analysis
Authors: Paris Josephine R. , Usher Jane
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The Role of T Follicular Helper Cells and T Follicular Regulatory Cells in the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Gao Yuhan , Jin Haiqiang , Nan Ding , Yu Weiwei , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Ying , Hou Ruiqin , Qin Ranran , Hao Hongjun , Sun Yongan , Tian Wenqin
Published: December 2019

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an acquired autoimmune disease mediated by antibodies against the patient’s red blood cells. However, the underlying mechanisms for antibody production are not fully understood. Previous studies of etiology and pathogenesis of AIHA mainly focus on autoreactive B cells that have escaped tolerance mechanisms. Few studies have reported the function of TFH and TFR cells in the process of AIHA. The present study aimed to explore the potential mechanism of TFH and TFR cells in the pathogenesis of AIHA. With the model of murine AIHA, increased ratios of TFH:TFR, elevated serum IL-21 and IL-6 levels, and upregulated Bcl-6 and c-Maf expression were reported. Also, adoptive transfer of purified CD4+CXCR5+CD25- T cells from immunized mice promoted the induction of autoantibody in the AIHA mouse model. Altogether, our data demonstrate the important role of TFH cells for control and induction of AIHA. In the light of the key contributions of TFH cells to the immune response in AIHA, strategies aimed at inhibiting the TFH development or function should be emphasized.
Targeting MAP3K19 prevents human lung myofibroblast activation both in vitro and in a humanized SCID model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Jones Isabelle C. , Espindola Milena S. , Narayanan Rohan , Coelho Ana L. , Habiel David M. , Boehme Stefen A. , Ly Tai Wei , Bacon Kevin B. , Hogaboam Cory M.
Published: December 2019

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a disease with a devastating prognosis characterized by unrelenting lung scarring. Aberrant activation of lung fibroblasts is a key feature of this disease, yet the key pathways responsible for this are poorly understood. Mitogen-activated protein kinase, kinase, kinase- 19 (MAP3K19) was recently shown to be upregulated in IPF and this MAPK has a key role in target gene transcription in the TGF-β pathway. Herein, we further investigate the role of MAP3K19 in cultured normal and IPF fibroblasts and in a humanized SCID mouse model of IPF employing both short interfering (si) RNA and novel small-molecule inhibitors directed at this kinase. Targeting MAP3K19 had significant inhibitory effects on the expression of both alpha smooth muscle actin and extracellular matrix in cultured human IPF fibroblasts. Quantitative protein and biochemical assays, as well as histological analysis, showed that MAP3K19 was required for the development of lung fibrosis in SCID mice humanized with IPF lung fibroblasts. MAP3K19 was required for IPF myofibroblast differentiation, and targeting its activity attenuated the profibrotic activity of these cells both in vitro and in an adoptive transfer SCID model of pulmonary fibrosis.
Transcriptome analysis in roots and leaves of wheat seedlings in response to low-phosphorus stress
Authors: Wang Jun , Qin Qin , Pan Jianjun , Sun Lijuan , Sun Yafei , Xue Yong , Song Ke
Published: December 2019

Low phosphorus availability is a major abiotic factor constraining wheat growth. The molecular mechanisms of the wheat whole genome under low-phosphorus stress are still unclear. To obtain information on gene expression in wheat seedlings under low-phosphorus stress, transcriptome sequencing was performed on roots and leaves. The results showed that 2,318 (1,646 upregulated and 672 downregulated) transcripts were differentially expressed in the leaves, and 2,018 (1,310 upregulated and 708 downregulated) were differentially expressed in the roots. Further analysis showed that these differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were mainly enriched in carbon fixation in photosynthetic organs and in carbon metabolism, photosynthesis, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism and plant-pathogen interaction in both leaves and roots. These pathways were mainly associated with environmental adaptation, energy metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism, suggesting that the metabolic processes were strengthened in wheat seedlings under low-phosphorus stress and that more energy and substances were produced to resist or adapt to this unfavourable environment. This research might provide potential directions and valuable resources to further study wheat under low-phosphorus stress.