bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomics Analysis of Testis of Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Yang Xiu-Yan , Gu Yu-jie , An Tian , Liu Jia-Xian , Pan Yan-Yun , Mo Fang-Fang , Miao Jia-Nan , Zhao Dan-Dan , Zhang Dong-Wei , Gao Si-Hua , Jiang Guang-Jian
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: The adverse effects of obesity on male fertility have been widely reported. In recent years, the relationship between the differential expression of proteins and long non-coding RNAs with male reproductive disease has been reported. However, the exact mechanism in underlying obesity-induced decreased male fertility remains unclear. Methods: We used isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification to identify differential protein expression patterns in the testis of rats fed a high-fat diet and normal diet. A microarray-based gene expression analysis protocol was used to compare the differences in long non-coding RNAs in high-fat diet-fed and normal diet-fed rats. Five obviously upregulated or downregulated proteins were examined using western blot to verify the accuracy of their expression. Then, we carried out functional enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed proteins using gene ontology and pathway analysis. Finally, the metabolic Gene Ontology terms and pathways involved in the differential metabolites were analyzed using the MetaboAnalyst 2.0 software to explore the co-expression relationship between long non-coding RNAs and proteins. Results: We found 107 proteins and 263 long non-coding RNAs differentially expressed between rats fed a high-fat diet and normal diet. The Gene Ontology term enrichment analysis showed that the protein function most highly enriched was related to negative regulation of reproductive processes. We also found five Gene Ontology terms and two metabolic pathways upregulated or downregulated for both proteins and long non-coding RNAs. Conclusion: The study revealed different expression levels for both proteins and long non-coding RNAs and showed that the function and metabolic pathways of differently expressed proteins were related to reproductive processes. The Gene Ontology terms and metabolic pathways upregulated or downregulated in both proteins and long non-coding RNAs may provide new candidates to explore the mechanisms of obesity-induced male infertility for both protein and epigenetic pathways.
Integrative Analysis of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression Identify a Three-Gene Signature for Predicting Prognosis in Lower-Grade Gliomas
Authors: Zeng Wen-Jing , Yang Yong-Long , Liu Zheng-Zheng , Wen Zhi-Peng , Chen Yan-Hong , Hu Xiao-Lei , Cheng Quan , Xiao Jian , Zhao Jie , Chen Xiao-Ping
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: In the current study, we performed an integrated analysis of genome-wide methylation and gene expression data to find novel prognostic genes for lower-grade gliomas (LGGs). Methods: First, TCGA methylation data were used to identify prognostic genes associated with promoter methylation. Second, candidate genes that were stably regulated by promoter methylation were explored. Third, Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to generate a prognostic signature, and the signature genes were used to construct a survival risk score system. Results: Three genes (EMP3, GSX2 and EMILIN3) were selected as signature genes. These three signature genes were used to construct a survival risk score system. The high-risk group exhibited significantly worse overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) as compared to the low-risk group in the TCGA dataset. The association of the three-gene prognostic signature with patient’ survival was then validated using the CGGA dataset. Moreover, Kaplan-Meier plots showed that the three-gene prognostic signature risk remarkably stratified grade II and grade III patients in terms of both OS and RFS in the TCGA cohort. There was also a significant difference between the low- and high-risk groups in IDH wild-type glioma patients, indicating that the three-gene signature may be able to help in predicting prognosis for patients with IDH wild-type gliomas. Conclusion: We identified and validated a three-gene (EMP3, GSX2 and EMILIN3) prognostic signature in LGGs by integrating multidimensional genomic data from the TCGA and CGGA datasets, which may help in fine-tuning the current histology-based tumors classification system and providing better stratification for future clinical trials.
SKLB060 Reversibly Binds to Colchicine Site of Tubulin and Possesses Efficacy in Multidrug-Resistant Cell Lines
Authors: Yan Wei , Yang Tao , Yang Jianhong , Wang Taijin , Yu Yamei , Wang Yuxi , Chen Qiang , Bai Peng , Li Dan , Ye Haoyu , Qiu Qiang , Zhou Yongzhao , Hu Yiguo , Yang Shengyong , Wei Yuquan , Li Weimin , Chen Lijuan
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Many tubulin inhibitors are in clinical use as anti-cancer drugs. In our previous study, a novel series of 4-substituted coumarins derivatives were identified as novel tubulin inhibitors. Here, we report the anti-cancer activity and underlying mechanism of one of the 4-substituted coumarins derivatives (SKLB060). Methods: The anti-cancer activity of SKLB060 was tested on 13 different cancer cell lines and four xenograft cancer models. Immunofluorescence staining, cell cycle analysis, and tubulin polymerization assay were employed to study the inhibition of tubulin. N, N ′-Ethylenebis(iodoacetamide) assay was used to measure binding to the colchicine site. Wound-healing migration and tube formation assays were performed on human umbilical vascular endothelial cells to study anti-vascular activity (the ability to inhibit blood vessel growth). Mitotic block reversibility and structural biology assays were used to investigate the SKLB060-tubulin bound model. Results: SKLB060 inhibited tubulin polymerization and subsequently induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. SKLB060 bound to the colchicine site of β-tubulin and showed antivascular activity in vitro. Moreover, SKLB060 induced reversible cell cycle arrest and reversible inhibition of tubulin polymerization. A mitotic block reversibility assay showed that the effects of SKLB060 have greater reversibility than those of colcemid (a reversible tubulin inhibitor), indicating that SKLB060 binds to tubulin in a totally reversible manner. The crystal structures of SKLB060-tubulin complexes confirmed that SKLB060 binds to the colchicine site, and the natural coumarin ring in SKLB060 enables reversible binding. Conclusions: These results reveal that SKLB060 is a powerful and reversible microtubule inhibitor that binds to the colchicine site and is effective in multidrug-resistant cell lines.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Vardenafil Against Cholestatic Liver Damage in Mice: a Mechanistic Study
Authors: El-Agamy Dina S. , Almaramhy Hamdi H. , Ahmed Nishat , Bojan Bsmah , Alrohily Waad D. , Elkablawy Mohamed A.
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors have beneficial effects in multiple liver diseases possibly through the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory response. However, these effects have not yet been examined in cholestatic liver dysfunction. Hence, this study aimed to explore the ability of vardenafil, a known phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, to repress lithocholic acid (LCA)-induced cholestatic liver injury and investigate the possible molecular pathways. Methods: Male Swiss albino mice were treated with LCA (0.125 mg/g) twice daily for 7 days to induce cholestatic liver damage. Vardenafil was administered 3 days before and throughout the administration of LCA. Serum markers of hepatotoxicity and hepatic nitro-oxidative stress along with antioxidant parameters were measured, and the histopathology of liver tissues was assessed. The expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its target genes was examined using PCR. The activation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and the levels of inflammatory cytokines were determined. NLRP3 inflammasome and its components were studied by PCR and western blot. Results: LCA induced marked cholestatic liver damage as demonstrated by increased serum transaminases, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bilirubin, and bile acids. Examination of liver specimens confirmed the biochemical results. Nitro-oxidative stress parameters were significantly elevated along with reduced antioxidant capacity in hepatic tissue following LCA administration. LCA suppressed Nrf2 and its target genes and decreased the mRNA expression and binding capacity of Nrf2 as well as the mRNA expression of GCLm, GCLc, Nqo1, and HO-1. Additionally, LCA enhanced the activation of NF-κB, which was accompanied by elevations of inflammatory cytokines. Importantly, LCA induced the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. LCA increased the expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, and IL-1β genes and proteins in hepatic tissue. The activities of IL-1β and caspase-1 were increased in the LCA group. Interestingly, vardenafil ameliorated LCA-induced hepatic injury and alleviated all biochemical, histopathological, and inflammatory parameters. Conclusions: These data elucidated the effects of Nrf2 inhibition and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in LCA-induced liver injury. The hepatoprotective activity of vardenafil in LCA-induced cholestatic damage may result from the drug’s ability to activate Nrf2 signaling and prevent the activation of NLRP3, which could suppress the inflammatory responses in hepatic tissue. Thus, vardenafil can be considered a novel anti-inflammatory remedy for cholestatic liver damage.
Stabilization of Slug by NF-κB is Essential for TNF-α -Induced Migration and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Liu Shuli , Shi Lei , Wang Yang , Ye Dongxia , Ju Houyu , Ma Hailong , Yang Wenyi , Wang Yanan , Hu Jingzhou , Deng Jiong , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: Slug protein, a transcription factor for the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer cell invasion and metastasis, is frequently upregulated in human epithelial cancers. However, mutation of this gene in cancer is rare, and the mechanism of its dysregulation remains unknown, especially in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods: We examined the role of TNF-α in the stabilization of Slug by immunoprecipitation-westernblot analysis. Migration of HNSCC cells with or without knockdown of Slug gene expression was assayed by a wound healing assay. Immunohistochemical staining analysis was used to measurement Slug levels in both normal and HNSCC tumor tissues. Results: The inflammatory cytokine TNF-α stabilized Slug protein by inhibiting its ubiquitination through the NF-κB pathway. Inhibition of NF-κB or knockdown of p65 abrogated the TNF-α-induced stabilization of Slug. Knockdown of Slug expression inhibited cancer cell migration and EMT characteristics induced by TNF-α. Moreover, increased levels of Slug were found to correlate with lymph node metastasis and predict poor prognosis in patients with HNSCC. Conclusions: NF-κB-mediated stabilization of Slug underlies the inflammation-induced EMT and metastasis in HNSCC, which may serve as a therapeutic target for metastatic HNSCC.
Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in South Asians in the United States: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Treatments: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Volgman Annabelle Santos , Palaniappan Latha S. , Aggarwal Neelum T. , Gupta Milan , Khandelwal Abha , Krishnan Aruna V. , Lichtman Judith H. , Mehta Laxmi S. , Patel Hena N. , Shah Kevin S. , Shah Svati H. , Watson Karol E. ,   On behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Epidemiology and Prevention; Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke in Women and Special Populations Committee of the Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Quality of Care and Outcomes Research; and Stroke Council
Published: May 2018

South Asians (from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) make up one quarter of the world’s population and are one of the fastest-growing ethnic groups in the United States. Although native South Asians share genetic and cultural risk factors with South Asians abroad, South Asians in the United States can differ in socioeconomic status, education, healthcare behaviors, attitudes, and health insurance, which can affect their risk and the treatment and outcomes of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). South Asians have higher proportional mortality rates from ASCVD compared with other Asian groups and non-Hispanic whites, in contrast to the finding that Asian Americans (Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese) aggregated as a group are at lower risk of ASCVD, largely because of the lower risk observed in East Asian populations. Literature relevant to South Asian populations regarding demographics and risk factors, health behaviors, and interventions, including physical activity, diet, medications, and community strategies, is summarized. The evidence to date is that the biology of ASCVD is complex but is no different in South Asians than in any other racial/ethnic group. A majority of the risk in South Asians can be explained by the increased prevalence of known risk factors, especially those related to insulin resistance, and no unique risk factors in this population have been found. This scientific statement focuses on how ASCVD risk factors affect the South Asian population in order to make recommendations for clinical strategies to reduce disease and for directions for future research to reduce ASCVD in this population.
Genetic variation of bread wheat accessions in response to the cereal cyst nematode, Heterodera filipjevi
Authors: Moatamedi Marzieh , Bazgir Eidi , Esfahani Mehdi Nasr , Darvishnia Mostafa
Published: May 2018

Bread wheat,Triticum aestivum, produces large edible grains and is consumed by 75% of the world’s populations. Cereal cyst nematodes have a global distribution and cause significant economic yield losses in many countries. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify new resistance sources. In this study, the genetic diversity of 43 wheat accessions in response to cereal cyst nematode,Heterodera filipjeviIsfahan pathotype, was assessed using a simple sequence repeat (SSR) marker. Seven primers were used, out of which five primers showed polymorphisms. Alleles per primer varied from one to three per locus (mean 2.85). The highest and lowest polymorphic information content of 0.81 and 0.44 (mean 0.66) were related to Xgwm 3012DL and Xgwm147, respectively. Genetic similarity was 29-88% between accessions. SSR analysis divided the accessions into five main groups. Resistant cultivars ‘Bam’ and ‘Behrang’ possessed bothCre1 andCre8 resistant genes. TheCre3 andCatgenes were partially sequenced in five cultivars of different responses toH. filipjevi. The nucleotide sequences were compared toCre3 andCathomologues, indicating 93-100% and 86-92% homology, respectively. The MEGA program showed highest similarity ofCre3 andCatgenes amplified with the resistance gene analogues (RGA14) in the wheat andCat3-A1 gene in ‘Carnamah’. This research showed that SRR markers could efficiently verify genetic diversity between wheat accessions, and the known resistance genes (Cregenes) against the cereal cyst nematodes could not control theH. filipjeviIsfahan pathotype populations, except theCre1 gene.
Systematics of the frogs allocated to Sarcohyla bistincta sensu lato (Cope, 1877), with description of a new species from Western Mexico
Authors: CAMPBELL JONATHAN A. , BRODIE EDMUND D. JR. , CAVIEDES-SOLIS ITZUE W. , DE OCA ADRIÁN NIETO-MONTES , LUJA VÍCTOR H. , FLORES-VILLELA OSCAR , GARCÍA-VÁZQUEZ URI OMAR , SARKER GOUTAM CHANDRA , WOSTL ELIJAH , SMITH ERIC N.
Published: May 2018

A new species of hylid frog is described from the southwestern edge of the Mexican Plateau from the states of Morelos and Mexico through Michoacán and Jalisco, reaching the Sierra Madre Occidental in Sinaloa and western Durango. The new species is part of the widespread Mexican hylid Sarcohyla bistincta (sensu amplo) complex, comprised of S. bistincta, S. pentheter, S. calthula, and S. ephemera. One subspecies of S. bistincta (labeculata) was proposed for an isolated population in Oaxaca. We restrict the group’s nominal species, S. bistincta (sensu stricto), to the Sierra Madre Oriental of Mexico and southward into the Sierra Madre del Sur of Guerrero and Oaxaca. Examination of type material places S. calthula and S. ephemera in the synonymy of S. labeculata (new combination). The species allied to S. bistincta, namely, S. bistincta, S. labeculata, S. pentheter, and the new species described herein, are diagnosed and described following recent suggested taxonomic changes and new available material.
A new species of Derobrachus Audinet-Serville, 1832 (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Prioninae) from a cloud forest in Honduras
Authors: SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , MAL NOËL , ROIE MARTIJN VAN , JOCQUÉ MERLIJN
Published: May 2018

A yearly biodiversity monitoring of longhorned beetles (Cerambycidae) in a Honduran cloud forest revealed a new species of prionine. Derobrachus cusucoensis sp. nov. is a locally relatively common species described from Cusuco National Park in Honduras, becoming the ninth species of this genus recorded for the country. Similar both in morphology and a montane habitat to D. dohrni, there is a possibility that this new species represents a disconnected population from the latter that evolved separately. An adapted insert for an existing identification key to all Derobrachus species is included.
Description of a new species of Nososticta Hagen (Odonata: Platycnemididae: Disparoneurinae) from Central Nicobar Islands, India
Authors: RAJESHKUMAR S. , RAGHUNATHAN C.
Published: May 2018

A new damselfly species, Nososticta nancowra Rajeshkumar sp. nov. is described based on eight males and three females from Central Nicobar Islands, India. The diagnostic characteristics of the new species separating it from congeners are discussed. Morphological variations observed in the anal appendages of males and the pronotum of females are documented. A description of the new species using photographs and drawings is given. An identification key to species of the genus Nososticta occurring in Nicobar Islands is given for both sexes.
Foundations in Russia: Evolving Approaches to Philanthropy
Authors: Jakobson Lev I. , Toepler Stefan , Mersianova Irina V.
Published: May 2018

This article discusses the contemporary state of philanthropic foundations in Russia. It traces the evolution of Russian philanthropy from the Imperial period through the Soviet times and the upheavals of the 1990s to today. Historically, foundations lacked a legal footing, not only under socialism but also during the Tsarist Empire, and while a new legal framework was introduced in the 1990s, the political and economic turmoil of the decade prevented the emergence of notable foundations until the turn of the millennium. Since then, the Russian foundation sector has steadily been growing, featuring foundations related to large business fortunes and corporations as well as successful fundraising and local community foundations. Particularly, foundations tied to business interests and corporations still face expectations to contribute to social and other public services in the tradition of Soviet-era state enterprises. An important difference between Russian and American and other Western foundations is that Russian foundations typically do not have endowments, but operate on ongoing pass-through funds by the founder.
Damage to an A-N720 ceramic matrix composite under simulated gas turbine static component conditions using laser heating
Authors: Lebel Larry , Boukhili Rachid , Turenne Sylvain
Published: May 2018

A ceramic matrix composite material constructed from a porous alumina matrix and Nextel™ 720 fibers was subjected to a novel type of experiment designed to reproduce the operating conditions of a gas turbine static component. Material specimens were exposed to cyclic laser heating on one side and active air cooling on the other side while being constrained in their bending deflection. For most specimens, accumulation of damage under the constant-amplitude heat load resulted in a temperature increase above the material limit of 1200℃ at the heated surface. Stress relaxation was observed due to inflicted sudden damage, like surface fiber buckling or ply delamination, and due to gradual permanent deformation of the material. The amount of damage was quantified by the variation of a stiffness parameter based on the measured reaction force and through-thickness temperature difference. While the level of damage was significant at the hot face, with the depth of cracking and delamination reaching up to half of the specimen thickness, the specimen back face remained intact. Stabilization of the damage was observed due to stress relaxation and decoupling of the damaged plies from the non-affected ones.
Efficacy of a Word- and Text-Based Intervention for Students With Significant Reading Difficulties
Authors: Vaughn Sharon , Roberts Garrett J. , Miciak Jeremy , Taylor Pat , Fletcher Jack M.
Published: May 2018

We examine the efficacy of an intervention to improve word reading and reading comprehension in fourth- and fifth-grade students with significant reading problems. Using a randomized control trial design, we compare the fourth- and fifth-grade reading outcomes of students with severe reading difficulties who were provided a researcher-developed treatment with reading outcomes of students in a business-as-usual (BAU) comparison condition. A total of 280 fourth- and fifth-grade students were randomly assigned within school in a 1:1 ratio to either the BAU comparison condition ( n = 139) or the treatment condition ( n = 141). Treatment students were provided small-group tutoring for 30 to 45 minutes for an average of 68 lessons (mean hours of instruction = 44.4, SD = 11.2). Treatment students performed statistically significantly higher than BAU students on a word reading measure (effect size [ES] = 0. 58) and a measure of reading fluency (ES = 0.46). Though not statistically significant, effect sizes for students in the treatment condition were consistently higher than BAU students for decoding measures (ES = 0.06, 0.08), and mixed for comprehension (ES = -0.02, 0.14).
Skateboarding and the ‘Tired Generation’: Ageing in Youth Cultures and Lifestyle Sports
Authors: Willing Indigo , Bennett Andy , Piispa Mikko , Green Ben
Published: May 2018

This article extends current discussions of ageing through a study of the continuing involvement in skateboarding of individuals who are no longer young adults. We qualitatively examine The Tired Video which features older and mostly middle-aged male skaters as our case study. This is done in light of discourses of ageing and a lack of studies examining how older participants remain involved in lifestyle sports typically associated with youth and risk. Our findings reveal four main processes, which we argue assist older skaters to establish an ongoing sense of inclusion in skateboarding. These are modification, dedication, humour and homage. Our study can also contribute insights to other scenes that have reached a ‘coming of age’ where they no longer accurately fit the description of being a youth culture alone, and the need to redirect thinking about ageing away from notions of imminent departure and deficit over to positive adaptations.
Soft sensor modelling of propylene conversion based on a Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy neural network optimized with independent component analysis and mutual information
Authors: Liu Shuting , Gao Xianwen , Qi Wenhai , Zhang Shumei
Published: May 2018

Propylene conversion is important to economic efficiency in the production of acrylic acid. Hence, the online measurement of propylene conversion is becoming more and more important. The current measurement method is mainly uses an offline meteorological chromatography analyser, which is difficult to measure accurately in real time. A soft sensor modelling method of propylene conversion based on Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy neural network optimized by independent component analysis and mutual information is proposed in this paper. Firstly, fast independent component analysis-based denoising strategy is developed to remove the noise in the measurement of variables influenced by propylene conversion. Then, a mutual information-based variable selection method is proposed to select the key variables from multitudinous variables to reduce the influence of weak correlation. Finally, a T-S fuzzy neural network algorithm is employed to forecast the propylene conversion in the process of propylene oxidation. Simulation results show that the proposed soft sensor modelling method has better prediction accuracy and generalization ability. The method of this paper is obvious and effective.
Impact of Collaborative Shared Medical Appointments on Diabetes Outcomes in a Family Medicine Clinic
Authors: Hartzler Melody L. , Shenk McKenzie , Williams Julie , Schoen James , Dunn Thomas , Anderson Douglas
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of a collaborative diabetes shared medical appointment on patient outcomes in an urban family medicine practice.

Methods

Fifty-nine patients were enrolled to participate in multiple shared medical appointments (SMAs) over 12 months. Baseline data included hemoglobin (A1C), lipids, systolic blood pressure (SBP), weight, adherence to American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines, and surveys, including the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID-2) scale and the Spoken Knowledge in Low Literacy in Diabetes Scale (SKILLD). A1C and SBP were evaluated at each visit. Lipid control was assessed at baseline and at 6 and 12 months. Adherence to ADA guidelines, SKILLD and PAID-2 survey scores, and number of antihyperglycemic and antihypertensive medications were also evaluated at 12 months.

Results

Thirty-eight patients completed the study. Compared with baseline, A1C and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels decreased significantly over 12 months ( P < .001 and P = .004, respectively). More patients became compliant with the ADA guidelines throughout the course of the study. Specifically, more patients achieved the LDL-C goal of ≤100 mg/dL (2.59 mmol/L; P < .001), were prescribed appropriate antihypertensive medications ( P < .001) and aspirin ( P < .001), and received the pneumonia vaccine ( P < .001). PAID-2 and SKILLD survey scores also significantly improved over the course of the study ( P ≤ .001 and P = .003, respectively).

Conclusion

Short-term interdisciplinary SMAs decreased A1C and LDL-C, improved patient adherence to ADA guidelines, improved emotional distress related to diabetes, and increased knowledge of diabetes.
Safranin-O removal from aqueous solutions using lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent: Synthesis, properties, and application
Authors: Azimvand J , Didehban Kh , Mirshokraie SA
Published: May 2018

In this study, alkali lignin modified by ethylene glycol and lignin nanoparticles was prepared through acid precipitation technology. Lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent was prepared using copolymerization reactions between lignin nanoparticle and polyacrylic acid in the presence of potassium persulfate as the radical initiator. Then, lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent was used to remove Safranin-O from an aqueous environment. The adsorbent structures and morphologies of lignin nanoparticle and lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Nanoparticle sizes were assessed using dynamic light scattering. Equilibrium isotherms were compared using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin adsorption models. Both adsorbent lignin nanoparticle and lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent showed good agreement with the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacities of lignin nanoparticle and lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent reached 99 and 138.88 mg g−1 using model-like, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticle diffusion, respectively. Experimental results showed that adsorbent lignin nanoparticle and lignin nanoparticle-g-polyacrylic acid adsorbent followed the pseudo-second order kinetic model.
A Greedy Path-Based Algorithm for Traffic Assignment
Authors: Xie Jun , Nie Yu (Marco) , Liu Xiaobo
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a new path-based algorithm for the static user equilibrium traffic assignment problem. Path-based algorithms are generally considered less efficient than bush-based counterparts, such as Algorithm B, traffic assignment by paired alternative segments (TAPAS), and iTAPAS, an improved version of TAPAS, because explicitly storing and manipulating paths appears wasteful. However, our numerical experiments indicate that the proposed path-based algorithm can outperform TAPAS or iTAPAS by a wide margin. The proposed algorithm, sharing the same Gauss-Seidel decomposition scheme with existing path-based algorithms, delivered a surprising performance, most likely due to its two main features. First, it adopts a greedy method to solve the restricted subproblem defined on each origin–destination (O-D) pair. Second, instead of sequentially visiting every O-D pair in each iteration, it introduces an intelligent scheme to determine which O-D pairs need more or less work. The proposed algorithm is also more straightforward to implement than bush-based algorithms.
Effects of TGF-β Overexpression via rAAV Gene Transfer on the Early Repair Processes in an Osteochondral Defect Model in Minipigs
Authors: Cucchiarini Magali , Asen Ann-Kathrin , Goebel Lars , Venkatesan Jagadeesh K. , Schmitt Gertrud , Zurakowski David , Menger Michael D. , Laschke Matthias W. , Madry Henning
Published: May 2018

Background:

Application of the chondrogenic transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is an attractive approach to enhance the intrinsic biological activities in damaged articular cartilage, especially when using direct gene transfer strategies based on the clinically relevant recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) vectors.

Purpose:

To evaluate the ability of an rAAV–TGF-β construct to modulate the early repair processes in sites of focal cartilage injury in minipigs in vivo relative to control (reporter lacZ gene) vector treatment.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Direct administration of the candidate rAAV–human TGF-β (hTGF-β) vector was performed in osteochondral defects created in the knee joint of adult minipigs for macroscopic, histological, immunohistochemical, histomorphometric, and micro–computed tomography analyses after 4 weeks relative to control (rAAV- lacZ) gene transfer.

Results:

Successful overexpression of TGF-β via rAAV at this time point and in the conditions applied here triggered the cellular and metabolic activities within the lesions relative to lacZ gene transfer but, at the same time, led to a noticeable production of type I and X collagen without further buildup on the subchondral bone.

Conclusion:

Gene therapy via direct, local rAAV–hTGF-β injection stimulates the early reparative activities in focal cartilage lesions in vivo.

Clinical Relevance:

Local delivery of therapeutic (TGF-β) rAAV vectors in focal defects may provide new, off-the-shelf treatments for cartilage repair in patients in the near future.
Inverting Risk Assessment: Considering the Lowest Risk Clients in the Federal Criminal Justice System
Authors: DeLisi Matt , Elbert Michael , Tahja Katherine
Published: May 2018

More than 30% of federal defendants have no prior official criminal history other than their present offense, and despite the low-risk nature of a large group of federal defendants, more than nine out of every 10 serve time in prison. Because of the overincarceration of low-risk defendants, the high cost of incarceration, and other developing evidence, there is growing interest in federal jurisdictions to develop alternatives to incarceration for defendants who pose little risk to public safety. Using pilot data from 1,046 federal pretrial defendants in a federal jurisdiction in the Midwestern United States, the current study developed a low-risk actuarial tool, validated the low-risk actuarial tool on a sample of pretrial candidates from the same federal jurisdiction, and examined recidivism outcomes at 1, 2, and 5 years after their entry into the pretrial phase of their federal prosecution. The assessment tool identified 65 clients as posing minimal risk, and these offenders accumulated just four arrests across 5 years. If all 65 defendants were sentenced to prison followed by supervised release, the total cost would be US$2.34 million, yet this blanket approach would have prevented just four arrests. The findings suggest two static criminal history factors coupled with age at onset of first offense and substance abuse predict excellent candidates for sentences of diversion and probation. Research implications and description of the development of the alternatives to incarceration screening work group in this jurisdiction are provided.
Neo-liberal Subjectivity, Self-branding and ‘My Rape Story’ YouTube Videos
Authors: Harrington Carol
Published: May 2018

This article considers the YouTube ‘My Rape Story’ genre in light of critical feminist analyses of rape survivor stories. The feminist mobilization that developed out of the political ferment of 1968 told a ‘rape story’ of male power and women’s oppression. However, as first-hand rape stories proliferated in late 20th-century popular media, psychological experts typically framed them with therapeutic narratives of individual self-efficacy and self-transformation. Critical feminist analyses of such rape ‘survivor discourse’ called for new discursive spaces that would allow survivors to eschew therapeutic accounts. A new generation of women have spoken out on a variety of digital platforms, confronting established limits on talking about rape. Considering YouTube ‘My Rape Story’ videos as one manifestation of this new wave of speaking out, my analysis shows that examples of such videos evidence the impact of incitements to self-disclosure through self-branding built into much social media. I argue that these videos exemplify how first-hand rape stories can provide a site for the construction of neo-liberal subjectivity by positioning rape trauma as something survivors must work on in order to achieve self-efficacy. Nevertheless, these accounts also show resistance to victim-blaming rape myths.
Interphase region effect on the biaxial yielding envelope of SiC fiber-reinforced Ti matrix composites
Authors: Hassanzadeh-Aghdam Mohammad Kazem , Edalatpanah Seyyed Ahmad , Azaripour Sasan
Published: May 2018

The objective of this paper is to investigate the coupled effects of interphase and thermal residual stress on the biaxial initial yield surfaces of metal matrix composites using the simplified unit cell micromechanical model. The representative volume element of the composite consists of three phases, including unidirectional silicon carbide (SiC) fiber, titanium (Ti) matrix, and the interphase region between the fiber and matrix. It is found that the interphase slightly affects the initial yield surfaces of metal matrix composites without thermal residual stress. However, the results reveal that as the thermal residual stress is considered in the micromechanical modeling, the effect of interphase on the response of metal matrix composites becomes much more significant. The effects of the SiC volume fraction, interphase parameters including thickness and material properties on the yielding behavior of the metal matrix composites are examined. To demonstrate the validity of the model, comparisons are carried out between the results of the present model and other micromechanical methods as well as experiment. The extracted results could be useful to guide the modeling and design of a wide range of multiphase metal matrix composites.
Ethical values of academic nurses: A pilot study
Authors: Denat Yıldız , Dikmen Yurdanur , Arslan Gülşah Gürol
Published: May 2018

Background:

While academics contribute to the development of society through all the subjects that they work on, they also have other important tasks to fulfill, such as being role models for their students and society. Therefore, the place of academic ethical values is a significant topic for academic nurses.

Objective:

The main objective of this research was to examine the attitudes of academic nurses toward academic ethics.

Research design:

This descriptive and cross-sectional research study was conducted between March and June 2017 in three different public universities in Turkey. The research sample consisted of 132 nurses in different professional positions at different universities who volunteered to participate in the study. The data were collected with an Information Form and an Academic Ethical Values Scale developed in Turkey.

Ethical considerations:

Ethical approval was granted by the institutions involved, and all participants provided informed verbal consent.

Findings:

The attitudes of academics participating in the research on academic ethical values were found to be highly positive. When the sub-dimensions of the scale were examined, the dimension with the highest average attitudinal score is found to be “values regarding the teaching process” and the dimension with the lowest average attitude score is found to be “values regarding society.” Depending on the participants’ academic position, it was determined that the total average score for the Academic Ethical Values Scale and the average scores of the “values regarding scientific research” and “values regarding the teaching process” sub-dimensions differed significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

It was found that academic nurses had highly positive attitudes of toward academic ethical values. It can be argued that academics act more responsibly with regard to the ethical values of the teaching process than other areas. In addition, academics who are professors are most sensitive in their perception of academic ethical values.
Configuration space–based discrete event system specification formalism for a smart factory with real-time flexibility
Authors: Chang Dae S , Park Sang C
Published: May 2018

A manufacturing system consists of various manufacturing devices, and each device has a set of tasks which are triggered by specific commands. Traditionally, simulation has been considered as an essential technology for the evaluation and analysis of manufacturing systems. Although discrete event system specification formalism has been a popular modeling tool for manufacturing systems, it has limitations in describing situations such as sudden cancelation of tasks. Proposed in this article is an extended discrete event system specification formalism for the effective description of a smart factory which requires the intelligence to handle turbulences in real-time production. The extended discrete event system specification formalism incorporates the configuration space concept, which is well-known in classical mechanics. While the conventional discrete event system specification formalism uses only the logical states set to represent the device states, the proposed formalism employs the combination of two sets: a logical states set (sequential states set) and a physical states set (configuration space of the device). As a result, the extended formalism enables the effective description of nondeterministic tasks which may occur frequently in a smart factory.
Characteristics of Apixaban-Treated Patients, Evaluation of the Dose Prescribed, and the Persistence of Treatment
Authors: Gomez-Lumbreras Ainhoa , Cortes Jordi , Giner-Soriano Maria , Quijada-Manuitt M. Angeles , Morros Rosa
Published: May 2018

Background:

Apixaban is a direct oral anticoagulant, which inhibits factor Xa. It has demonstrated clinical efficacy in prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and a better safety profile compared to warfarin.

Objectives:

(1) To describe the characteristics of patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation beginning treatment with apixaban, (2) to analyze concomitant prescriptions of medications that could potentially interact with apixaban, (3) to evaluate the level of appropriate usage according to the recommended dosage, and (4) to estimate the level of apixaban persistence among naive and non-naive patients.

Methods:

Cohort study using data from primary care (System for Research in Primary Care database, users of the Institut Català de la Salut; Catalonia, Spain) from August 2013 to December 2015.

Results:

Mean age for apixaban-treated patients was 71.8 years (standard deviation = 11.1) and 55.6% were male. In all, 3.2% of patients receiving apixaban were taking drugs described as potentially related to either pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions. According to the summary of product characteristics, 81.1% of patients with a recommended dose of 2.5 mg twice daily and 51.8% with a recommended dose of 5 mg twice daily actually took this dose. After 1 year of follow-up, 62.6% of the apixaban users showed good adherence.

Conclusion:

The prescribed dose of apixaban did not fully follow the recommended dose, particularly in patients who were treatment naive. Patients with a prior history of anticoagulant treatment were more likely to remain persistent to treatment with apixaban.
Understanding of How Communications Students Use Interactive Instructional Technology From a User Experience Perspective
Authors: Wagler Adam
Published: May 2018

The ubiquitous nature of technology presents new paradigms for higher education as students are bombarded by information in a media-rich world. College students are taking multiple courses at a time, over many semesters, and using many different educational technologies. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to describe the experiences with interactive instructional technology from the perspective of college students. Findings identified communication as the number one priority as the lines between personal and professional lives are blurred. However, technology introduces layers of separation between students, faculty, and course content. Faculty must be comfortable with technology to build trust with students while students are required to solve problems when technology is not working.
Hypersensitivity to alemtuzumab. A safe and effective desensitization protocol: A case report
Authors: Gutiérrez-Fernández Diego , Saldaña-Valderas Mónica , de la Varga-Martínez Raquel , Foncubierta-Fernández Antonio , Fernández-Anguita María J , Fernández-Valle Maria del C , Medina-Varo Fermín
Published: May 2018

We describe a successful desensitization to alemtuzumab in one patient diagnosed with T-cell prolymphocytic leukaemia. Alemtuzumab treatment was initiated during infusion number 18, the patient showed cutaneous eruption with a miliary pattern, despite premedication with corticosteroids and antihistamines. The eruption returned with successive alemtuzumab infusions (infusions 19, 20 and 21), remained present for longer and was more severe with each infusion. The patient was referred to our Allergy Unit as it was necessary to maintain alemtuzumab treatment. Total immunoglobulin E level was 3 UI/ml and specific immunoglobulin E against more common pneumo-allergens, food, latex and hamster were inferior to 0.35 UI/ml. Prick test using the undiluted drug (30 mg/ml) and intradermal tests using serial dilutions (1/10, 1/100) were performed. The result of alemtuzumab skin prick test was 4 mm. The intradermal skin test result was positive at 1/100 dilution (papule: 8 mm; erythema: 12 mm). The basophil activation test with alemtuzumab was performed concluding that 10% of the basophils were activated by alemtuzumab. The patient underwent alemtuzumab desensitization according to a 12-step protocol that resolved to be safe and efficacious. Our experience may be helpful for similar clinical cases where the therapeutic options are very limited and a life-threatening condition such T-cell prolymphocytic leukaemia is present. In addition, a careful risk/benefit ratio should be considered and accurate informed consent is mandatory.
Indentation load–depth relation for an elastic layer with surface tension
Authors: Li Shaoheng , Yuan Weike , Ding Yue , Wang Gangfeng
Published: May 2018

The load–depth relation is a fundamental requisite in nanoindentation tests for thin layers; however, the effects of surface tension are seldom included. This paper concerns micro-/nano-sized indentation by a rigid sphere of a bonded elastic layer. The surface Green’s function with the incorporation of surface tension is first derived by applying the Hankel integral transform, and subsequently used to formulate the governing integral equation for the axisymmetric contact problem. By using a numerical method based on the Gauss–Chebyshev quadrature formula, the singular integral equation is solved efficiently. Several numerical results are presented to investigate the influences of surface tension and layer thickness on contact pressure, surface deformation, and bulk stress. It is found that when the size of contact is comparable to the ratio of surface tension to elastic modulus, the contribution of surface tension to the load–depth relation becomes quite prominent. With the help of a parametric study, explicit general expressions for the indentation load–depth relation as well as the load–contact radius relation are summarized, which provide the groundwork for practical applications.
Policies of Exclusion: Space, Time, and the Informal Economy in Chicago
Authors: Alejo Elizabeth , Schoenecker Amy
Published: May 2018

Encouraged by neoliberal policies promoting entrepreneurialism and free markets, many cities have begun to try and formalize informal industries using schemes including new regulations and licenses. However, given the importance of controlling urban space, many of these policies often continue to marginalize vulnerable workers who operate in public space. Comparing the outcomes of formalization for three industries in Chicago between 2012 and 2015—pedicabs (bicycle operated cabs), food trucks, and street vendors, this article finds that an effect of formalization has been policies of exclusion in the form of spatial and temporal bans, severely limiting where and when informal workers are allowed to operate. The findings suggest that a simplistic emphasis on formalization, without an accompanying discussion on uneven geographies or considerations on the intersection of uses and the users of space, is misplaced.
“We will fight Goliath”: Negotiation of space for musical agency in children’s music education
Authors: Kuuse Anna-Karin
Published: May 2018

Following a music philosophy debate deriving from the 1990s, this article puts the extra-musical and social outcomes of situated music educational practices at the fore. The Swedish replica of the choir and orchestra school El Sistema, a programme globally asserting social change and social impact, appeared useful for elaborating such outcomes in practice. Following this, the present study aims to empirically elaborate musical agency as an analytical concept to understand children’s experiences, while at the same time discussing musical agency in relation to a social discursive view on practice. A Swedish El Sistema children’s string orchestra was followed for three months and the material for analysis consists of audio recordings and observation notes from lessons, performances and family events, as well as documents surrounding the activities. Constructions of discipline, empowerment and space are revealed as affecting opportunities for musical agency. The study thus elaborates on discursive constraints and opportunities for agency negotiation while discussing social outcomes with and within music education.