bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HYDROLOGICAL FUNCTION OF A MOUNTAIN FEN AT LOW ELEVATION UNDER DRY CONDITIONS
Authors: Streich Stephanie C. , Westbrook Cherie J.
Published: August 2019

Mountain fens are limited in their spatial extent but are vital ecosystems for biodiversity, habitat, and carbon and water cycling. Studies of fen hydrological function in northern regions indicate the timing and magnitude of runoff is variable, with atmospheric and environmental conditions playing key roles in runoff production. How the complex ecohydrological processes of mountain fens that govern water storage and release as well as peat accumulation will respond to a warmer and less snowy future climate is unclear. To provide insight, we studied the hydrological processes and function of Sibbald fen, located at the low end of the known elevation range in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, over a dry period. We added an evapotranspiration function to the Spence hydrological function method to better account for storage loss. When frozen in spring and early summer, the fen primarily transmits water. When thawed, the fen's hydrological function switches from water transmission to water release, leading to a summertime water table decline of nearly 1 m. Rainfall events larger than 5 mm can transiently switch fen hydrological function to storage, followed by contribution, depending on antecedent conditions. The evapotranspiration function was dominant only for a brief period in late June and early July when rainfall was low and the ground was still partially frozen, even though evapotranspiration accounted for the largest loss of storage from the system. This research highlights the mechanisms by which mountain peatlands supply baseflow during drought conditions, and the importance of frozen ground and rainfall in regulating their hydrological function. The study has important implications for the sustainability of low elevation mountain fens under climate change.
Systematic comparison of plasma EBV DNA, anti‐EBV antibodies and miRNA levels for early detection and prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Tan Lu Ping , Tan Geok Wee , Sivanesan Vijaya Mohan , Goh Siang Ling , Ng Xun Jin , Lim Chun Shen , Kim Wee Ric , Mohidin Taznim Begam Binti Mohd , Mohd Dali Nor Soleha , Ong Siew Hoon , Wong Chun Ying , Sawali Halimuddin , Yap Yoke Yeow , Hassan Faridah , Pua Kin Choo , Koay Cheng Eng , Ng Ching Ching , Khoo Alan Soo‐Beng ,   the Malaysian Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Study Group
Published: August 2019

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is originated from the epithelial cells of nasopharynx, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated and has the highest incidence and mortality rates in Southeast Asia. Late presentation is a common issue and early detection could be the key to reduce the disease burden. Sensitivity of plasma EBV DNA, an established NPC biomarker, for Stage I NPC is controversial. Most newly reported NPC biomarkers have neither been externally validated nor compared to the established ones. This causes difficulty in planning for cost‐effective early detection strategies. Our study systematically evaluated six established and four new biomarkers in NPC cases, population controls and hospital controls. We showed that BamHI‐W 76 bp remains the most sensitive plasma biomarker, with 96.7% (29/30), 96.7% (58/60) and 97.4% (226/232) sensitivity to detect Stage I, early stage and all NPC, respectively. Its specificity was 94.2% (113/120) against population controls and 90.4% (113/125) against hospital controls. Diagnostic accuracy of BamHI‐W 121 bp and ebv‐miR‐BART7‐3p were validated. Hsa‐miR‐29a‐3p and hsa‐miR‐103a‐3p were not, possibly due to lower number of advanced stage NPC cases included in this subset. Decision tree modeling suggested that combination of BamHI‐W 76 bp and VCA IgA or EA IgG may increase the specificity or sensitivity to detect NPC. EBNA1 99 bp could identify NPC patients with poor prognosis in early and advanced stage NPC. Our findings provided evidence for improvement in NPC screening strategies, covering considerations of opportunistic screening, combining biomarkers to increase sensitivity or specificity and testing biomarkers from single sampled specimen to avoid logistic problems of resampling.
Tunable self‐powered n‐SrTiO3 photodetectors based on varying CuS‐ZnS nanocomposite film (p‐CuZnS, p‐CuS, and n‐ZnS)
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xu Xiaojie , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: August 2019

The heterojunction photodetector between n‐SrTiO3 (n‐STO) and p‐CuS‐ZnS (p‐CZS) is prepared by a simple chemical bath deposition. The p‐CZS/n‐STO photodetector exhibits excellent self‐powered characteristics under 390‐nm light illumination, including high photosensitivity (on/off ratio of 300), fast response speed (0.7/94.6 ms), and good wavelength selectivity (410‐380 nm). More importantly, the self‐powered n‐STO photodetectors can be regulated by varying the composition of CZS film (p‐CZS, p‐CuS, and n‐ZnS). All devices exhibit a large open‐circuit voltage and show different self‐powered behaviors because of the different built‐in electric fields. The open‐circuit voltages of the CZS/STO, CuS/STO, and ZnS/STO devices are measured to be 0.56, 0.30, and 0.35 V, respectively. This work provides a simple and effective way to fabricate tunable self‐powered photodetectors by varying the composition of the nanocomposite film.
Additively manufactured small‐diameter vascular grafts with improved tissue healing using a novel SNAP impregnation method
Authors: Kabirian Fatemeh , Brouki Milan Peiman , Zamanian Ali , Heying Ruth , Mozafari Masoud
Published: August 2019

The vascular network has a complex architecture such as branches, curvatures, and bifurcations which is even more complicated in view of individual patients' defect anatomy requiring custom‐specifically designed vascular implants. In this work, 3D printing is used to overcome these challenges and a new shorter impregnation method was developed to incorporate S‐nitroso‐N‐acetyl‐d‐penicillamine (SNAP) as a nitric oxide (NO) donor to printed grafts. The 3D‐printed small‐diameter vascular grafts (SDVGs) were impregnated with SNAP solution during SNAP synthesis (S1) or with SNAP dissolved in methanol (S2). The advantage of the newly developed S1 impregnation method is the elimination of the synthesis step by direct impregnation inside the S1 solution. Scanning electron microscopy imaging reveals the successful crystal formation in both methods. The results demonstrate that both S1‐ and S2‐impregnated grafts, after covering with polycaprolactone topcoat, can release NO in a controlled manner and in the physiological range (0.5–4.0 × 10−10 mol cm−2 min−1) over a 15 days period. The created grafts with a NO‐releasing surface have also shown bactericidal effect while the healing properties of the implant were improved by promoting migration and proliferation of endothelial cells (ECs). These results suggest that incorporation of 3D printing technology with the newly developed S1 impregnation of SNAP can optimize and shorten the manufacturing process of the next generation of patient‐based antibacterial SDVGs with a higher attraction for ECs.
Changes in the expression levels of CB1 and GLP‐1R mRNAs and microRNAs 33a and 122 in the liver of type 2 diabetic rats treated with ghrelin
Authors: Coskun Zeynep M. , Beydogan Alisa B. , Bolkent Sema
Published: August 2019

The aim of the study is to clarify the effect of ghrelin treatment on the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (Cnr1/CB1) and glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor (Glp1r/GLP‐1R) as well as microRNAs (miR)‐122 and miR‐33a in the liver of rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Adult Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 7), T2DM (n = 7), and treatment (n = 7). Control animals received tap water. T2DM was induced by feeding 10% fructose in drinking water for 2 weeks followed by a single injection of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg, intraperitoneally [IP]). In the treatment group, diabetic rats were injected ghrelin (25 μg/kg, IP) for 14 days. Serum lipid profiles were evaluated, and mRNA expression levels of Cnr1 and Glp1r in the liver were detected using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). In addition, miR‐122 and miR‐33a levels were measured using RT‐qPCR. Serum triglycerides, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very‐low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly increased in the T2DM group compared with control rats but ghrelin treatment showed no effect on serum lipid levels. The mRNA expression levels of Cnr1 and Glp1r decreased in the T2DM group compared with the control group. These reductions were significantly increased in the T2DM group treated with ghrelin. Furthermore, the increase in miR‐33a expression level was reduced in the treatment group compared to rats with T2DM. Our findings suggested that ghrelin treatment may alter the mRNA expression levels of CB1 and GLP‐1R in the liver of rats with T2DM. The mRNA levels of Cnr1 and Glp1r may inversely correlate with the expression level of miR‐33a but not miR‐122.
LncRNA CCAT1 functions as apoptosis inhibitor in podocytes via autophagy inhibition
Authors: Su Yanyan , Yao Shuwen , Zhao Shili , Li Jinchun , Li Hongyan
Published: August 2019

Podocyte apoptosis importantly contributes to various kidney diseases. Long noncoding RNAs Colon cancer‐associated transcript‐1 (CCAT‐1) has been demonstrated for a critical role in cell proliferation. In the present study, the relationship between CCAT1 and popdocyte impairment, and the underlying mechanism was investigated. Podocytes were isolated from mice and then treated with tumor necrosis factor‐α to simulate podocyte injury. After developed CCAT1 overexpression or knockdown, cell viabilities were determined with the CCK‐8 assay, apoptosis was examined with Flow cytometry, the autophagy was observed by Western blot. Furthermore, phosphorylated PI3K and Akt expressions were examined. We found that after CCAT1 overexpression, the cell viability was significantly increased, apoptosis was significantly decreased, and autophagy was significantly inhibited, which was indicated by induced P62, LC3B‐I and decreased LC3B‐II. In addition, CCAT1 overexpression induced the levels of phosphorylated PI3K and Akt. With Rap treatment, these effects by CCAT1 were reversed. Furthermore, the results contrary to the effects by CCAT1 overexpression were presented after CCAT1 knockdown, and this was inhibited by 3‐MA. Taken together, our results suggested that CCAT1 induction critically participated in apoptosis inhibition in podocytes through autophagy inhibition via increasing PI3K/Akt signaling. This might act as a promising therapeutic intervention for renal diseases associated with podocyte apoptosis.
NCAM regulates the proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, EMT, and migration of human melanoma cells via the Src/Akt/mTOR/cofilin signaling pathway
Authors: Li Jing , Yang Rui , Yang Haijie , Chen Sujuan , Wang Lei , Li Man , Yang Shaokui , Feng Zhiwei , Bi Jiajia
Published: August 2019

The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) plays critical roles in multiple cellular processes in neural cells, mesenchymal stem cells, and various cancer cells. However, the effect and mechanism of NCAM in human melanoma cells are still unclear. In this study, we found that NCAM regulated the proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition of human melanoma cells by determining the biological behavior of NCAM knockdown A375 and M102 human melanoma cells. Further studies revealed that NCAM knockdown impaired the organization of actin cytoskeleton and reduced the phosphorylation of cofilin, an actin‐cleaving protein. When cells were transfected with cofilin S3A (dephosphorylated cofilin), biological behavior similar to that of NCAM knockdown cells was observed. Research on the underlying molecular mechanism showed that NCAM knockdown suppressed activation of the Src/Akt/mTOR pathway. Specific inhibitors of Src and PI3K/Akt were employed to further verify the relationship between Src/Akt/mTOR signaling and cofilin, and the results showed that the phosphorylation level of cofilin decreased following inhibition of the Src/Akt/mTOR pathway. These results indicated that NCAM may regulate the proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition of human melanoma cells via the Src/Akt/mTOR/cofilin pathway‐mediated dynamics of actin cytoskeleton.
Path analytic modeling of psychologists’ openness to performing clinical work with telepsychology: A national study
Authors: Pierce Bradford S. , Perrin Paul B. , McDonald Scott D.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To examine whether the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) apply to psychologists’ openness to using telepsychology.

Method

Participants were 1,791 psychologists currently practicing psychotherapy. Participants represented all 50 US states and averaged 26.33 (SD = 11.18) years in clinical practice. The study used a cross‐sectional, national online design.

Results

Path analyses derived from the TRA and TAM evidenced poor fit. A newly‐developed, third model achieved adequate to fit in which perceived attitudes of others concerning telepsychology were associated with perceived ease of use (β = 0.25,p < .001) and usefulness (β = 0.30,p < .001) of telepsychology. Perceived ease of use (β = 0.30,p < .001) and usefulness (β = 0.32,p < .001) of telepsychology both uniquely predicted current use of telepsychology.

Conclusions

Organizations should adopt methods for delivering telepsychology that are easy to use and possess demonstrable utility.
Kinetic characteristics and N2O production of a heterotrophic nitrifying bacterium Pseudomonas putida YH capable of tolerating adverse environmental conditions
Authors: Yang Lei , Wang Xu‐Hui , Xiao Qian , Ren Yong‐Xiang , Chen Ning , Cui Shen
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Heterotrophic nitrifying bacteria (HNB) have rapid growth rate, high activity and strong anti‐shock ability. These attributes are advantageous in engineering applications, yet the use of HNB is restricted by lack of clarity about the kinetics and metabolic mechanisms involved. Thus, nitrogen conversion characteristics, kinetics and N2O production of the HNB Pseudomonas putida YH were evaluated.

RESULTS

Strain YH exhibited superior heterotrophic nitrification‐aerobic denitrification (HNAD) ability in treating nitrogenous wastewater, with maximum removal rates of 10.07, 8.86 and 8.78 mg L−1 h−1 for NH4+–N, NO3−–N and NO2−–N, respectively. Mass balance analysis demonstrated that the removed TN was mainly due to bacterial assimilation (53–55%) and conversion into gaseous N2 (34–39%), instead of nitrification intermediate accumulation and N2O emission. In addition, the kinetics of nitrogen degradation and cellular growth of strain YH exactly conformed to the modified Gompertz equation and the Logistic equation, respectively. Moreover, strain YH showed excellent adaptability to variations of temperature, pH, C:N ratio and initial NH4+–N concentration in terms of nitrogen removal and N2O emission. The highest NH4+–N removal rate was obtained at pH 7.0, temperature 30 °C and C:N ratio of 15. Furthermore, the heterotrophic nitrification ability was just partially deteriorated after the addition of inhibitors, which further proved the multiple metabolic pathways of heterotrophic nitrification by strain YH.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that strain YH exhibited excellent abilities of HNAD, N2O emission control and tolerance to adverse conditions, indicating that strain YH can be an effective candidate for treating nitrogenous wastewater without secondary pollution. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in resource‐constrained settings: challenges and ways forward
Authors: Wi Teodora EC , Ndowa Francis J , Ferreyra Cecilia , Kelly‐Cirino Cassandra , Taylor Melanie M , Toskin Igor , Kiarie James , Santesso Nancy , Unemo Magnus
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain prevalent and are increasing in several populations. Appropriate STI diagnosis is crucial to prevent the transmission and sequelae of untreated infection. We reviewed the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic case management and existing point‐of‐care tests (POCTs), including those in the pipeline, to diagnose STIs in resource‐constrained settings.

Methods

We prioritized updating the systematic review and meta‐analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of vaginal discharge from 2001 to 2015 to include studies until 2018. We calculated the absolute effects of different vaginal flowcharts and the diagnostic performance of POCTs on important outcomes. We searched the peer‐reviewed literature for previously conducted systematic reviews and articles from 1990 to 2018 on the diagnostic accuracy of syndromic management of vaginal and urethral discharge, genital ulcer and anorectal infections. We conducted literature reviews from 2000 to 2018 on the existing POCTs and those in the pipeline.

Results and discussions

The diagnostic accuracy of urethral discharge and genital ulcer disease syndromes is relatively adequate. Asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections limit the use of vaginal discharge and anorectal syndromes. The pooled diagnostic accuracy of vaginal syndromic case management for CT/NG is low, resulting in high numbers of overtreatment and missed treatment. The absolute effect of POCTs was reduced overtreatment and missed treatment. Findings of the reviews on syndromic case management underscored the need for low‐cost and accurate POCTs for the identification, first, of CT/NG, and, second, of Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and NG and MG resistance/susceptibility testing. Near‐patient POCT molecular assays for CT/NG/TV are commercially available. The prices of these POCTs remain the barrier for uptake in resource‐constrained settings. This is driving the development of lower cost solutions.

Conclusions

The WHO syndromic case management guidelines should be updated to raise the quality of STI management through the integration of laboratory tests. STI screening strategies are needed to address asymptomatic STIs. POCTs that are accurate, rapid, simple and affordable are urgently needed in resource‐constrained settings to support the uptake of aetiological diagnosis and treatment.
Mechanisms of sexually transmitted infection‐induced inflammation in women: implications for HIV risk
Authors: Mwatelah Ruth , McKinnon Lyle R , Baxter Cheryl , Abdool Karim Quarraisha , Abdool Karim Salim S
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Globally, sexually transmitted infections (STI) affect >300 million people annually, and are a major cause of sexual and reproductive health complications in women. In this commentary, we describe how STIs interact with the immune and non‐immune cells, both within and below the cervicovaginal mucosal barrier, to cause inflammation, which in turn has been associated with increased HIV acquisition risk.

Discussion

STIs have a major impact on the female genital mucosa, which is an important biological and physical barrier that forms the first line of defence against invading microorganisms such as HIV. Pattern recognition of STI pathogens, by receptors expressed either on the cell surface or inside the cell, typically triggers inflammation at the mucosal barrier. The types of mucosal responses vary by STI, and can be asymptomatic or culminate in the formation of discharge, ulcers and/or warts. While the aim of this response is to clear the invading microbes, in many cases these responses are either evaded or cause pathology that impairs barrier integrity and increases HIV access to target cells in the sub‐mucosa. In addition, innate responses to STIs can result in an increased number of immune cells, including those that are the primary targets of HIV, and may contribute to the association between STIs and increased susceptibility to HIV acquisition. Many of these cells are mediators of adaptive immunity, including tissue‐resident cells that may also display innate‐like functions. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common cause of inflammation, and evidence for multiple interactions between BV, STIs and HIV suggest that susceptibility to these conditions should be considered in concert.

Conclusions

STIs and other microbes can induce inflammation in the genital tract, perturbing the normal robust function of the mucosal barrier against HIV. While the impact of STIs on the mucosal immune system and HIV acquisition is often under‐appreciated, understanding their interactions of the infections with the immune responses play an important role in improving treatment and reducing the risk of HIV acquisition. The frequent sub‐clinical inflammation associated with STIs underscores the need for better STI diagnostics to reverse the immunological consequences of infection.
Give PrEP a chance: moving on from the “risk compensation” concept
Authors: Rojas Castro Daniela , Delabre Rosemary M , Molina Jean‐Michel
Published: August 2019

Introduction

While bio‐behavioural interventions (BIs) for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV prevention have shown their effectiveness (e.g. treatment for syphilis, HPV vaccination or pre‐exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]), they have also aroused major concerns regarding behavioural changes that could counteract their benefit. Risk compensation (RC) fears concerning BIs in the HIV/STIs prevention field are intimately linked to representations, judgements and social control on sexual behaviour. With an increasing number of PrEP studies describing a rise in STIs due to RC, this paper argues for a shift away from the focus on RC and proposes a more constructive approach to respond to the needs of people living with HIV and populations most at risk.

Discussion

The concept of RC, stemming from road safety and derived from economic theory, relies on rational theoretical models of human behaviour. Although widely applied in several contexts its use has been reasonably questioned. Major methodological issues regarding RC have been raised within HIV/AIDS literature. Although behavioural changes (e.g. condomless sex and number of sexual partners) are often erroneously assimilated with RC, there is no evidence that behavioural changes have undermined the effectiveness of previous and current BIs. Still, PrEP has not escaped RC concerns. Increases in condomless sex within the context of growing uptake of PrEP signals a continued need for integrated and innovative HIV and STI prevention strategies and a comprehensive sexual health approach. Routine HIV/STI testing, peer‐led counselling, and identification of sexual health needs within the PrEP model of care could become a gold standard in the sexual health field for all populations.

Conclusions

RC remains a frequent argument against the availability and provision of prevention methods for vulnerable populations. Individuals should be able to benefit from the full panel of BIs options available, to find and adapt methods according to their needs. Current, past and future PrEP users, with other stakeholders, may provide valuable insight into innovative solutions and programmes to control HIV and other STIs.
The role of saliva in gonorrhoea and chlamydia transmission to extragenital sites among men who have sex with men: new insights into transmission
Authors: Chow Eric PF , Fairley Christopher K
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Gonorrhoea and chlamydia cases have been rising among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM) over the last decade. The majority of cases are extragenital and occur at the oropharynx and anorectum. The aim of this narrative review was to review the risk factors and mode of transmission for gonorrhoea and chlamydia at the oropharynx and anorectum among MSM.

Results and discussion

New evidence suggests that oropharyngeal gonorrhoea can be transmitted by kissing in addition to through the established route of condomless oral sex; and anorectal gonorrhoea can be acquired when saliva is used as a lubricant for anal sex and rimming in addition to the established route of condomless penile‐anal sex in MSM. In contrast, condomless penile‐anal sex remains the major route for chlamydia transmission.

Conclusions

Substantial transmission of gonorrhoea may occur with practices other than the established routes of condomless oral and/or anal sex and hence condoms may not be effective in preventing gonorrhoea transmission to extragenital sites. In contrast, condoms are effective for chlamydia control because it is mainly transmitted through condomless penile‐anal sex. Novel interventions for gonorrhoea that reduce the risk of transmission at extragenital site are required.
Decreasing seroprevalence of anti‐hepatitis D virus antibodies in the antiviral era with inverse association with hepatitis B virus DNA, Taiwan, 2006 to 2019
Authors: Lee Kuan‐Chieh , Lin Chih‐Lang , Hsu Chao‐Wei , Chang Ming‐Ling , Chen Yi‐Cheng , Lin Wey‐Ran , Lai Ming‐Wei , Lin Kwang‐Huei , Chao Mei , Chien Rong‐Nan , Yeh Chau‐Ting
Published: August 2019

We examined the seroprevalence change of anti‐hepatitis D virus (HDV) antibodies in Taiwan from 2006 to 2019. A total of 1147 patients who had chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection were assessed. Of them, 51 (4.4%) were positive for anti‐HDV antibodies. Comparison between anti‐HDV‐positive and negative groups was performed to examine clinical and virological factors related to anti‐HDV positivity. It was found that the median HBV‐DNA concentration was 1.6 × 105 IU/mL (range, <20‐4.5 × 1010 IU/mL) and <20 IU/mL (range, <20‐2.0 × 109 IU/mL) for patients with negative and positive anti‐HDV antibodies, respectively (P < .001). In addition, a progressive year‐to‐year decrease of anti‐HDV seroprevalence was unveiled. For patients who had HBV‐DNA >15 000 IU/mL, the year‐to‐year (calculated every 2 years) seropositive rates of anti‐HDV were 10.0%, 7.9%, 0.7%, 0.3%, 0%, 0%, and 0% (P < .001). For patients who had HBV‐DNA <15 000 IU/mL, the year‐to‐year seropositive rates were 18.6%, 12.8%, 7.8%, 5.0%, 7.3%, 8.0%, and 3.7% (P < .001). In conclusion, seropositive of anti‐HDV was inversely associated with HBV‐DNA levels. A progressive decrease of anti‐HDV seroprevalence was found with no anti‐HDV‐positive cases detected in high HBV‐DNA patient group after 2014.
The role of TLR4 and HO‐1 in neuroinflammation after subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Akamatsu Yosuke , Pagan Vicente A. , Hanafy Khalid A.
Published: August 2019

This review on the mechanisms of neuroinflammation following subarachnoid hemorrhage will focus mainly on toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), Heme Oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and the role of microglia and macrophages in this process. Vasospasm has long been the focus of research in SAH; however, clinical trials have shown that amelioration of vasospasm does not lead to an improved clinical outcome. This necessitates the need for novel avenues of research. Our work has demonstrated that microglial TLR4 and microglial HO‐1, not only affects cognitive dysfunction, but also circadian dysrhythmia in a mouse model of SAH. To attempt to translate these findings, we have also begun investigating macrophages in the cerebrospinal fluid of SAH patients. The goal of this review is to provide an update on the role of TLR4, HO‐1, and other signal transduction pathways in SAH‐induced neuroinflammation.
The down‐regulation of Notch 1 signaling contributes to the severity of bone loss in aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Mijailovic Iva , Nikolic Nadja , Djinic Ana , Carkic Jelena , Milinkovic Iva , Peric Mina , Jankovic Sasha , Milasin Jelena , Aleksic Zoran
Published: August 2019

Background

The exact mechanisms of bone resorption in periodontitis have not been fully elucidated. The aims of this study were to analyze the expression of Notch signaling molecules, bone remodeling mediators, and pro‐inflammatory cytokines in periodontitis patients and to determine their potential correlations.

Methods

The study included 130 individuals: 40 with aggressive periodontitis (AP group), 40 with chronic periodontitis (CP group), and 50 periodontally healthy controls. Total RNA was extracted from gingival crevicular fluid samples and relative gene expression of investigated molecules (Notch 1, Notch 2, Jagged 1, Hes 1, Hey 1, TNF‐α, IL‐17, RANKL, and OPG) was determined by reverse transcriptase – real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR).

Results

In AP group, a significant increase of Notch 2, TNF‐α, IL‐17 and RANKL and a significant decrease of Notch 1 and Jagged 1 expression were observed compared to control group (P = 0.023, P = 0.005, P = 0.030, and P = 0.001 P = 0.031 and P = 0.029, respectively). Notch 2 and RANKL were also overexpressed in CP group compared to controls (P = 0.001 and P = 0.011). Significant correlations were observed in AP group between expression levels of the analyzed genes.

Conclusion

The present findings implicate Notch 2 overexpression in the ethiopathogenesis of bone resorption in aggressive and chronic periodontitis. The down‐regulation of Notch 1 and Jagged 1 and loss of their osteoprotective function might cause a more excessive osteoclast formation and contribute to greater osteolysis in aggressive periodontitis.
Thermodynamic and Surface Properties of Aqueous 1‐Dodecyl‐3‐Methylimidazolium Chloride [C12mim][Cl] Solution in the Presence of a Series of Inorganic Salts
Authors: Pal Amalendu , Yadav Sangeeta
Published: August 2019

The micellization behavior of amphiphiles is a well‐analyzed physicochemical phenomenon, which can be easily influenced by various parameters such as pressure, temperature, and the presence of different additives. Inorganic salts are able to affect the thermodynamic and surface properties of amphiphiles significantly. The effect of a series of salts as additives namely lithium chloride (LiCl), potassium chloride (KCl), sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium bromide (NaBr), and sodium iodide (NaI) on interfacial chemical characteristics of the surface‐active ionic liquid (SAIL) 1‐dodecyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride [C12mim][Cl] in aqueous solution were examined through conductance, surface tension, fluorescence, 1H NMR, and dynamic light scattering measurements. The interfacial and thermodynamic parameters of all investigated SAIL‐salt systems were evaluated from surface tension and conductance measurements, respectively. A detailed analysis of the microenvironment of the micelles and the size of the micelles was done using 1H NMR and dynamic light scattering measurements.
The Aggregation Behavior and Antioxidative Activity of Amphiphilic Surfactants Based on Quinuclidin‐3‐ol
Authors: Bošković Perica , Šprung Matilda , Bazina Linda , Soldo Barbara , Odžak Renata
Published: August 2019

The self‐aggregation and thermodynamic properties of three cationic quaternary ammonium surfactants were investigated. The physicochemical properties of compounds containing quinuclidin‐3‐ol with even number of carbon atoms (10, 12, and 14) in the hydrophobic tail were measured by conductivity, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Zeta‐potential measurements. DLS and Zeta‐potential measurements show a similar size distribution for all surfactants with excellent uniformity, and Zeta‐potential increases significantly with increase in the size of hydrocarbon tail. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) and the degree of micelle ionization (β) were determined using conductivity measurements. The CMC values of surfactants were found to be between 3.4 and 23.8 × 10−3 M. The standard Gibbs free energy () was derived from conductivity measurements and suggests that surfactants containing longer chains spontaneously form micelles. The antioxidative properties of these cationic surfactants were evaluated using the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays. Among the tested samples, N‐tetradecyl‐3‐hydroxyquinuclidinium bromide (QOH‐C14) exhibited the highest antioxidative potential (388.30 nmol (TE) equivalents mL−1), which was further investigated by the DNA nicking assay.
Injective tests of low complexity in the plane
Authors: Lecomte Dominique , Zamora Rafael
Published: August 2019

We study injective versions of the characterization of sets potentially in a Wadge class of Borel sets, for the first Borel and Lavrentieff classes. We also study the case of oriented graphs in terms of continuous homomorphisms, injective or not.
Pulsed Laser Activation of Carbene Bioadhesive Boosts Bonding Strength
Authors: Shah Ankur H. , Kartheek Pilla , Gandhi Prasanna , Jonnalagadda Krishna , Steele Terry W. J.
Published: August 2019

Light‐activated tissue adhesives are limited to low light doses (50 J) and intensities (<1 W cm−2) due to photo‐to‐thermal heat generation. Low intensities have the disadvantage of limited penetration depths with retarded crosslinking kinetics, which impairs carbene‐based crosslinking strategies that compete with nitrogen evolution and gas nucleation. These limitations are circumvented by a trade‐off between high‐intensity activation while reducing the exposure surface area. Continuous or pulsed activation by line scanning the carbene precursor adhesive allows curing a higher surface area/volume ratio while preventing localized heat generation. By optimizing irradiation with a pulsed laser scan, the adhesion strength is improved by 17‐fold over ultraviolet A (UVA) light emitting diodes (LEDs) and is on par with bioadhesive gold standard of topical cyanoacrylates. Overall, this improved method of photo‐activation applies to other industrial and clinical photocuring adhesives where limits on UVA dose constrain exposure intensities.
Quantitative estimations of bivariate summation‐integral–type operators
Authors: Yadav Rishikesh , Meher Ramakanta , Mishra Vishnu Narayan
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we study the approximation properties of bivariate summation‐integral–type operators with two parameters
. The present work deals within the polynomial weight space. The rate of convergence is obtained while the function belonging to the set of all continuous and bounded function defined on ([0],∞)(×[0],∞) and function belonging to the polynomial weight space with two parameters, also convergence properties, are studied. To know the asymptotic behavior of the proposed bivariate operators, we prove the Voronovskaya type theorem and show the graphical representation for the convergence of the bivariate operators, which is illustrated by graphics using Mathematica. Also with the help of Mathematica, we discuss the comparison by means of the convergence of the proposed bivariate summation‐integral–type operators and Szász‐Mirakjan‐Kantorovich operators for function of two variables with two parameters to the function. In the same direction, we compute the absolute numerical error for the bivariate operators by using Mathematica and is illustrated by tables and also the comparison takes place of the proposed bivariate operators with the bivariate Szász‐Mirakjan operators in the sense of absolute error, which is represented by table. At last, we study the simultaneous approximation for the first‐order partial derivative of the function.
Dynamic susceptibility contrast 19F‐MRI of inhaled perfluoropropane: a novel approach to combined pulmonary ventilation and perfusion imaging
Authors: Neal Mary A. , Pippard Benjamin J. , Simpson A. John , Thelwall Peter E.
Published: August 2019

Purpose

To assess alveolar perfusion by applying dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI to 19F‐MRI of inhaled perfluoropropane (PFP). We hypothesized that passage of gadolinium‐based contrast agent (GBCA) through the pulmonary microvasculature would reduce magnetic susceptibility differences between water and gas components of the lung, elevating the of PFP.

Methods

Lung‐representative phantoms were constructed of aqueous PFP‐filled foams to characterize the impact of aqueous/gas phase magnetic susceptibility differences on PFP . Aqueous phase magnetic susceptibility was modulated by addition of different concentrations of GBCA. In vivo studies were performed to measure the impact of intravenously administered GBCA on the of inhaled PFP in mice (7.0 Tesla) and in healthy volunteers (3.0 Tesla).

Results

Perfluoropropane was sensitive to modulation of magnetic susceptibility difference between gas and water components of the lung, both in phantom models and in vivo. Negation of aqueous/gas phase magnetic susceptibility difference was achieved in lung‐representative phantoms and in mice, resulting in a ~2 to 3× elevation in PFP (3.7 to 8.5 ms and 0.7 to 2.6 ms, respectively). Human studies demonstrated a transient elevation of inhaled PFP (1.50 to 1.64 ms) during passage of GBCA bolus through the lung circulation, demonstrating sensitivity to lung perfusion.

Conclusion

We demonstrate indirect detection of a GBCA in the pulmonary microvasculature via changes to the of gas phase PFP within directly adjacent alveoli. This approach holds potential for assessing alveolar perfusion by dynamic susceptibility contrast 19F‐MRI of inhaled PFP, with concurrent assessment of lung ventilation properties, relevant to lung physiology and disease.
Factors associated with acute exacerbations of myasthenia gravis
Authors: Gummi Rohit Reddy , Kukulka Natalie Anna , Deroche Chelsea B. , Govindarajan Raghav
Published: August 2019

Introduction

The etiology of acute exacerbations of myasthenia gravis (MG) is not well understood and further characterization can lead to improved preventative measures. This study aims to characterize factors contributing to MG exacerbations.

Methods

A total of 127 MG patient charts were reviewed retrospectively (2011‐2016) to obtain demographics, immunizations, pharmaceutical records, contributing factors of each MG exacerbation, emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and duration.

Results

There were 212 exacerbations requiring 106 ED visits and 141 hospitalizations (average admission 6.5 days). Highest contributors were infections (30%) and medications that may worsen MG (19%), with 24% unattributed. Infection related exacerbations were associated with 44.3% of ED visits and 39.7% of hospitalizations. Patients prescribed beta‐blockers were associated with more exacerbations (P < .01). Patients prescribed medications that may worsen MG had a higher exacerbation frequency shortly after administration.

Discussion

Infections and cautioned medications are frequently factors in acute MG exacerbations needing urgent medical attention and warrant caution.
Fabrication of ternary composites with controlled surface microstructure using a cascaded suspension deposition method
Authors: Pishvar Maya , Amirkhosravi Mehrad , Yalcinkaya M. Akif , Altan M. Cengiz
Published: August 2019

Fabrication of multifunctional materials via incorporation of the third component into structural composite laminates is of great interest, especially for manipulating surface properties. However, achieving a uniform, well‐dispersed surface microstructure in ternary composites is quite challenging by using the traditional fabrication processes. In this article, a novel cascaded suspension deposition method is presented to introduce well‐dispersed short fibers into the molded laminates, allowing the control of the surface properties of the resulting ternary composite. Towards this goal, the micron‐sized, nickel‐coated carbon (NiC) fibers are uniformly deposited on a glass fabric surface by the proposed method. The deposited fabric is then used to fabricate NiC/glass/epoxy composite laminate by vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). The deposition morphology on the glass fabrics and the fabricated laminates is investigated by assessing: (i) spatial uniformity of fiber volume fraction; (ii) degree of dispersion; and (iii) process‐induced orientation and degree of alignment. To demonstrate the flexibility of the proposed method, the effects of fiber concentration, fabric architecture, and resin flow are studied. The experimental results reveal that, in all fabrication cases, the cascaded suspension deposition technique is capable of depositing short fibers on the fabric surface with a uniform fiber volume fraction and excellent dispersion with random orientation. In addition, it is observed that the resin flow during VARTM does not considerably disturb the deposition‐induced microstructure of the NiC fibers, which allows the successful fabrication of ternary composites by VARTM.
Characterization of cerium (III) ion binding to surface‐immobilized EF‐hand loop I of calmodulin
Authors: Xu MingYuan , Su Zihang , Renner Julie N.
Published: August 2019

Cerium has a wide range of current and emerging applications, and the binding of cerium ions to solid substrates is important for cerium recovery, or in advanced material synthesis. In this study, we investigate the affinity of a surface‐bound peptide derived from the EF‐hand loop I of calmodulin for cerium (III) ions and compare the results to a scrambled control. Results obtained via quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation are used to estimate the dissociation constant between the bound EF‐hand loop I peptide and cerium (III) ions (1.3 ± 0.1 μM), which is comparable with other dissociation constants measured for EF‐hand peptides and cerium ions in solution reported this work and in literature (0.95‐5.8 μM). Circular dichroism also suggests that the peptide binds to cerium (III) ions in solution, and undergoes a secondary structural change upon binding. Overall, this study shows that EF‐hand loop peptides are capable of binding cerium (III) ions in solution and when attached to a solid substrate.
Silicon photosensitizers in cancer therapy: Theoretical studies on novel 5‐methoxypsoralens
Authors: Ayoubi‐Chianeh Mojgan , Kassaee Mohamad Z.
Published: August 2019

Three novel silicon photosensitizers (PSs) are discovered with prospects to be utilized in psoralen ultra‐violet A (PUVA) cancer therapy, at B3LYP/6‐311++G** level of theory. They include 5‐methoxysilolo[3,2‐g]chromen‐2(8H)‐one (1), 5‐methoxybenzo[4,5]silolo[3,2‐g]chromen‐2(10H)‐one (2), and 11‐methoxybenzo[c]silolo[3,2‐g]chromen‐5(8H)‐one (3). Structures 1‐3 exhibit intense narrow absorption peaks in the ultra violet A (UVA) therapeutic window and show T1 energies necessary to activate the ground state triplet molecular oxygen (3O2) to its singlet excited state (1O2).
Effects of age, sex, race/ethnicity, and allergy status in obesity‐related pediatric asthma
Authors: Lang Jason E. , Bunnell H. Timothy , Lima John J. , Hossain Md Jobayer , Wysocki Tim , Bacharier Leonard , Dempsey Amanda , Ulrich Lisa , Test Matthew R. , Forrest Christopher B.
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Obesity in children increases the risk for new asthma. How age, sex, race/ethnicity, and allergy status affect the relationship between obesity and asthma is unclear. This study describes the relationship between high body mass index (BMI) and incident asthma.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare asthma incidence among normal weight, overweight, and obese 2 to 6, 7 to 11, and 12 to 17 year olds to define the effects of sex, race/ethnicity, and allergy status. Weight status was determined at baseline and asthma incidence was defined as ≥2 asthma encounters and ≥1 asthma prescriptions. We used multivariable Poisson regression to estimate adjusted incident asthma rates and risk ratios.

Results

Data from 192 843 2 to 6 year olds, 157 284 7 to 11 year olds, and 157 369 12 to 17 year olds were included. The relative risks (95% confidence interval [CI]) of new asthma among obese children in 2 to 6 year olds, 7 to 11 year olds, and 12 to 17 year olds were 1.25 (1.15, 1.37), 1.49 (1.32, 1.69) and 1.40 (1.21, 1.63), respectively. Among children with underlying allergic rhinitis, obesity did not increase the risk of new asthma. In children without allergic rhinitis, the risk for obesity‐related asthma was highest in 7 to 11 year olds (risk ratio = 1.50 95% CI, 1.33, 1.60). Before age 12, females had a higher risk for obesity‐related asthma; but after age 12, obese males had a higher asthma risk (interaction P‐value < .05).

Conclusion

Obesity is a major preventable risk factor for pediatric asthma that appears to vary along the pediatric age continuum and depends on sex, race/ethnicity and atopy status.
Medication stewardship using computerized clinical decision support: A case study on intravenous immunoglobulins
Authors: Tsapepas Demetra , Der-Nigoghossian Caroline , Patel Khilna , Berger Karen , Vawdrey David K , Salmasian Hojjat
Published: August 2019

Background

Healthcare delivery organizations face increasing pressure to manage the use of medications in terms of safety, waste reduction, and cost containment.

Objective

To describe a computerized provider order entry (CPOE) system intervention to optimize use of a commonly ordered, high‐cost therapeutic: intravenous immune globulin (IVIG).

Design

Description of IVIG order configuration, medication use patterns, and subsequent order set configuration development in a CPOE system.

Measurements

IVIG orders were extracted from the CPOE system before and after the implementation of a specialty orderset to determine the indications for use, dosing, and duration of therapy. Orders were compared to a theoretical dosing schedule created from published evidence and data from a prior medication use evaluation.

Results

During 36 months before the implementation of the IVIG order set, 1965 IVIG orders were reviewed. The prescribed IVIG dose varied considerably from the expected dose (mean = −1.8, range = −4.9‐1.5). In the 27 months after order set implementation, 848 IVIG orders were reviewed. The prescribed IVIG dose was closer to the expected dose (mean = −1.2, range = −3.9‐2.6, P < .0001).

Conclusions

Order configuration processes are cumbersome and time‐consuming, but can be streamlined to enhance a medication’s usage in the healthcare system. A better understanding of institution‐specific ordering patterns may facilitate more efficient and effective order configuration and optimize drug use.
Antimony‐Doped Tin Oxide as Transparent Back Contact in Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin‐Film Solar Cells
Authors: Englund Sven , Kubart Tomas , Keller Jan , Moro Marcos V. , Primetzhofer Daniel , Suvanam Sethu Saveda , Scragg Jonathan J. S. , Platzer-Björkman Charlotte
Published: August 2019

Antimony‐doped tin oxide (Sn2O3:Sb, ATO) is investigated as a transparent back contact for Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin‐film solar cells. The stability of the ATO under different anneal conditions and the effect from ATO on CZTS absorber growth are studied. It is found that ATO directly exposed to sulfurizing anneal atmosphere reacts with S, but when covered by CZTS, it does not deteriorate when annealed at T < 550 °C. The electrical properties of ATO are even found to improve when CZTS is annealed at T = 534 °C. At T = 580 °C, it is found that ATO reacts with S and degrades. Analysis shows repeatedly that ATO affects the absorber growth as large amounts of Sn−S secondary compounds are found on the absorber surfaces. Time‐resolved anneal series show that these compounds form early during anneal and evaporate with time to leave pinholes behind. Device performance can be improved by addition of Na prior to annealing. The best CZTS device on ATO back contact herein has an efficiency of 2.6%. As compared with a reference on a Mo back contact, a similar open‐circuit voltage and short‐circuit current density are achieved, but a lower fill factor is measured.