bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability and degradation products of imipenem applying high‐resolution mass spectrometry: An analytical study focused on solutions for infusion
Authors: de Souza Barbosa Fábio , Capra Pezzi Leonardo , Tsao Marisa , Franco de Oliveira Tiago , Manoela Dias Macedo Sandra , E.S. Schapoval Elfrides , S.L. Mendez Andreas
Published: December 2018

Carbapenems show recognized instability in aqueous solutions; therefore some care must be taken in their handling and preparation and their use in the hospital environment. The stability and degradation products of imipenem were investigated from conditions that simulate its clinical use. For this, a simple stability‐indicating method by HPLC‐DAD was validated with a focus on the quantitation of drug concentration remaining from infusion solutions (sodium chloride 0.9% and glucose 5%). The degradation products formed were identified by high‐resolution mass spectrometry (ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS), with detection of the [M + H]+ ions at m/z 318 (DP‐1), m/z 599 (DP‐2) and m/z 658 (DP‐3). The most probable elemental compositions were obtained with a high degree of confidence, where the error between the masses observed and calculated was 1.25 ppm for DP‐1, −0.33 ppm for DP‐2 and 1.82 ppm for DP‐3. The DP‐1 degradation product resulted from cleavage of the β‐lactam ring; DP‐2 corresponded to the drug dimer; and DP‐3 was generated from the interaction between imipenem and cilastatin. The proposed method provides a safe and reliable alternative for the quantitation of imipenem, and the stability data obtained by ESI‐Q‐TOF help in understanding the drug behavior under the conditions of clinical use.
Ex‐vivo percutaneous bypass: Limb perfusion in the setting of occlusive large bore sheath
Authors: Shah Zeel , Alraies M. Chadi , Soud Mohamad , Kaki Amir
Published: December 2018

Successful cardiac catheterization procedure begins with safe vascular access and ends with effective hemostasis after equipment removal. These new and advanced technologies in the cath lab require large‐bore arterial accesses. Large‐bore sheaths are associated with blood flow obstruction resulting in limb ischemia. In this case we present a 48‐year‐old woman was admitted NSTEMI and cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical circulatory support. Selective left common iliac angiography demonstrated obstructive flow at the level of the left CFA (access site). Therefore, ipsilateral bypass circuit was done. The current case illustrates the utility of a temporary ex‐vivo bypass circuit to preserve limb perfusion in the presence of an occlusive large bore sheath. The technique permits sufficient hemodynamic support while maintaining limb perfusion and can be used for any occlusive large bore sheath.
Model validation in dynamic systems for time‐course data with complex error structures
Authors: Kim Yoonji , Kim Jaejik
Published: December 2018

Dynamic systems with ordinary differential equations have been widely used to describe dynamic processes in various fields such as chemistry, biology, and physics. The dynamic systems are usually constructed using time‐course data measured from experiments at discrete time points. Such experimental time‐course data typically have complex error structures while the dynamic systems are mathematical and deterministic models without random errors. Because of the inflexible nature of mathematical models, the model fits might not cover the whole range of data variations, and there might be a discrepancy between the models and real processes. Moreover, since those experiments typically yield sparse data with high variation, for more accurate prediction, dynamic systems should be statistically validated in terms of observed data. Thus, this study proposes a validation method for dynamic systems. In particular, the proposed method focuses on models from time‐course data with complex error structures such as heteroscedasticity, correlations between objects, and time dependence.
Addressing late effects and quality of life essential to improving survivorship care
Authors: Printz Carrie
Published: December 2018

This news section offers Cancer readers timely information on events, public policy analysis, topical issues, and personalities. In this issue, we highlight efforts being made to improve cancer survivorship care and mitigate the late effects of cancer treatment. We also report on the increased risk for endocrine diseases among adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and on research demonstrating that high‐risk human papillomavirus testing may be a good option for cervical cancer screening.
Whole mouse brain reconstruction and registration to a reference atlas with standard histochemical processing of coronal sections
Authors: Eastwood Brian S. , Hooks Bryan M. , Paletzki Ronald F. , O'Connor Nathan J. , Glaser Jacob R. , Gerfen Charles R.
Published: December 2018

Advances in molecular neuroanatomical tools have expanded the ability to map in detail connections of specific neuron subtypes in the context of behaviorally driven patterns of neuronal activity. Analysis of such data across the whole mouse brain, registered to a reference atlas, aids in understanding the functional organization of brain circuits related to behavior. A process is described to image mouse brain sections labeled with standard histochemical techniques, reconstruct those images into a whole brain image volume and register those images to the Allen Mouse Brain Common Coordinate Framework. Image analysis tools automate detection of cell bodies and quantification of axon density labeling in the structures in the annotated reference atlas. Examples of analysis are provided for mapping the axonal projections of layer‐specific cortical neurons using Cre‐dependent AAV vectors and for mapping inputs to such neurons using retrograde transsynaptic tracing with modified rabies viral vectors.
Insulin‐Like Growth Factor I Regulation and Its Actions in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Vassilakos Georgios , Barton Elisabeth R.
Published: December 2018

The insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) pathway is essential for promoting growth and survival of virtually all tissues. It bears high homology to its related protein insulin, and as such, there is an interplay between these molecules with regard to their anabolic and metabolic functions. Skeletal muscle produces a significant proportion of IGF‐1, and is highly responsive to its actions, including increased muscle mass and improved regenerative capacity. In this overview, the regulation of IGF‐1 production, stability, and activity in skeletal muscle will be described. Second, the physiological significance of the forms of IGF‐1 produced will be discussed. Last, the interaction of IGF‐1 with other pathways will be addressed. © 2019 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol9:413‐438, 2019.
Shared Resource Laboratory (SRL) Communications—A New Journal Type
Authors: Davies Derek , Filby Andrew , Lannigan Joanne
Published: December 2018

See article on pages E1–E2 in this issue
High response torque control of IPMSM using state feedback control based on n‐t coordinate system
Authors: Matsuki Yosuke , Doki Shinji
Published: December 2018

This paper proposes a torque control method for interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSMs). The proposed method uses state feedback control based on a new n‐t coordinate system and controls the voltage amplitude and phase based on the coordinate system. The t‐axis is a tangent line of the constant voltage ellipse, and the n‐axis is a normal line of the ellipse. The n‐axis current is utilized to place the poles of the transfer function at the desired position and reduce the mutual coupling between the voltage amplitude controller and phase controller. The proposed method realizes a high torque response even under parameter variation for the linear range and over‐modulation range of the inverter, including a 6‐step mode. The effectiveness of the proposed method was verified by simulation and experimental results.
A controlled study of the Collaborative Care Skills Workshops versus Psycho‐educational Workshops among Spanish caregivers of relatives with an eating disorder
Authors: Sepúlveda Ana R. , Anastasiadou Dimitra , Parks Melissa , Gutiérrez Elena
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a negative reaction to the illness would be reduced through the “Collaborative Care Skills Workshops” programme among Spanish caregivers of relatives with an eating disorder. Caregivers were randomly allocated to either the skill‐based workshops (n = 32) or psycho‐educational workshops (n = 31), and assessments were carried out over time (T0 vs. T1 vs. T2). There were no significant differences between interventions on primary or secondary caregiver outcomes or among the patients themselves. However, caregivers in both interventions showed greater improvement at T2 on accommodating and enabling behaviours and an improvement at T1 in terms of psychological distress and appraisals towards the caregiving experience. Eating pathology, psychological distress, and some indices of psychosocial adjustment were significantly lower among the patients following both interventions (T1). Overall, both interventions may be able to help caregivers and patients to decrease their psychological distress.

Highlights

Involvement of family members in the treatment could be the best resource for aiding in their relative's recovery.

This is the first controlled study to test the effectiveness of the Collaborative Care Skills Workshops in Spanish caregivers.

Both interventions could be implemented as both help Spanish caregivers and patients.
Effects of antiepileptic drugs on cortical excitability in humans: A TMS‐EMG and TMS‐EEG study
Authors: Darmani Ghazaleh , Bergmann Til O. , Zipser Carl , Baur David , Müller‐Dahlhaus Florian , Ziemann Ulf
Published: December 2018

Brain responses to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) recorded by electroencephalography (EEG) are emergent noninvasive markers of neuronal excitability and effective connectivity in humans. However, the underlying physiology of these TMS‐evoked EEG potentials (TEPs) is still heavily underexplored, impeding a broad application of TEPs to study pathology in neuropsychiatric disorders. Here we tested the effects of a single oral dose of three antiepileptic drugs with specific modes of action (carbamazepine, a voltage‐gated sodium channel (VGSC) blocker; brivaracetam, a ligand to the presynaptic vesicle protein VSA2; tiagabine, a gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) reuptake inhibitor) on TEP amplitudes in 15 healthy adults in a double‐blinded randomized placebo‐controlled crossover design. We found that carbamazepine decreased the P25 and P180 TEP components, and brivaracetam the N100 amplitude in the nonstimulated hemisphere, while tiagabine had no effect. Findings corroborate the view that the P25 represents axonal excitability of the corticospinal system, the N100 in the nonstimulated hemisphere propagated activity suppressed by inhibition of presynaptic neurotransmitter release, and the P180 late activity particularly sensitive to VGSC blockade. Pharmaco‐physiological characterization of TEPs will facilitate utilization of TMS‐EEG in neuropsychiatric disorders with altered excitability and/or network connectivity.
Neural gain control measured through cortical gamma oscillations is associated with sensory sensitivity
Authors: Orekhova Elena V. , Stroganova Tatiana A. , Schneiderman Justin F. , Lundström Sebastian , Riaz Bushra , Sarovic Darko , Sysoeva Olga V. , Brant Georg , Gillberg Christopher , Hadjikhani Nouchine
Published: December 2018

Gamma oscillations facilitate information processing by shaping the excitatory input/output of neuronal populations. Recent studies in humans and nonhuman primates have shown that strong excitatory drive to the visual cortex leads to suppression of induced gamma oscillations, which may reflect inhibitory‐based gain control of network excitation. The efficiency of the gain control measured through gamma oscillations may in turn affect sensory sensitivity in everyday life. To test this prediction, we assessed the link between self‐reported sensitivity and changes in magneto‐encephalographic gamma oscillations as a function of motion velocity of high‐contrast visual gratings. The induced gamma oscillations increased in frequency and decreased in power with increasing stimulation intensity. As expected, weaker suppression of the gamma response correlated with sensory hypersensitivity. Robustness of this result was confirmed by its replication in the two samples: neurotypical subjects and people with autism, who had generally elevated sensory sensitivity. We conclude that intensity‐related suppression of gamma response is a promising biomarker of homeostatic control of the excitation–inhibition balance in the visual cortex.
Posttreatment surveillance PET/CT for HPV‐associated oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Corpman David W. , Masroor Farzad , Carpenter Diane M. , Nayak Sundeep , Gurushanthaiah Deepak , Wang Kevin H.
Published: December 2018

Background

Surveillance positron emission tomography‐computed tomography (PET/CT) is commonly used for treatment assessment of radiation therapy in head and neck cancer. However, human papillomavirus‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+OPSCC) patients represent a unique subpopulation, for which the utility of surveillance PET/CT has not been well studied.

Methods

In this retrospective chart review comprising 233 HPV+OPSCC patients, we evaluated surveillance PET/CT for diagnostic accuracy, downstream clinical impact, and survival.

Results

Surveillance PET/CT demonstrated 100% negative predictive value and sensitivity, 59.9% specificity, and 13.4% positive predictive value. Surveillance PET/CT led to 90 imaging studies and 31 biopsies; 91.1% and 77.4% were negative for recurrence, respectively. Surveillance PET/CT led to meaningful salvage therapy in 1.6% of cases. PET/CT‐detected recurrences did not have improved survival compared to clinically detected recurrences.

Conclusion

For HPV+OPSCC patients, surveillance PET/CTs frequently lead to unnecessary testing and rarely to meaningful disease salvage. They have no demonstrated survival benefit and should be interpreted cautiously to prevent patient harm.
Epstein‐Barr virus and human papillomaviruses as favorable prognostic factors in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A nationwide study in Finland
Authors: Ruuskanen Miia , Irjala Heikki , Minn Heikki , Vahlberg Tero , Randen‐Brady Reija , Hagström Jaana , Syrjänen Stina , Leivo Ilmo
Published: December 2018

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is related to Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) in endemic areas; however, the role of viruses in nonendemic countries is unclear. Our nationwide study investigated the prevalence and prognostic significance of EBV and human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in Finnish NPC tumors.

Methods

We analyzed samples from 150 patients diagnosed between 1990 and 2009. Viral status was determined using EBV and HPV RNA in situ hybridizations, and p16 immunohistochemistry. Patient and treatment characteristics were obtained from patient records.

Results

In our white patient cohort, 93 of 150 (62%) patients were EBV‐positive and 21/150 (14%) patients were HPV‐positive with no coinfections. Thirty‐six (24%) tumors were negative for both viruses. The 5‐year disease‐specific survival for patients with EBV‐positive, HPV‐positive, and EBV/HPV‐negative tumors was 69%, 63%, and 39%, respectively. In multivariable‐adjusted analysis, overall survival was better among patients with EBV‐positive (P = .005) and HPV‐positive (P = .03) tumors compared to patients with EBV/HPV‐negative tumors.

Conclusions

In our low‐incidence population, EBV and HPV are important prognostic factors for NPC.
Porphyromonas gingivalis as a Possible Risk Factor in the Development/Severity of Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis
Authors: Zhou Yun , Vatsalya Vatsalya , Gobejishvili Leila , Lamont Richard J. , McClain Craig J. , Feng Wenke
Published: December 2018

Bacterial infection is frequently observed in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We examined a possible role of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the development/progression and severity of disease in patients with acute alcoholic hepatitis (AAH). Plasma specimens from 47 patients with AAH (16 moderate, Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease [MELD] score <20]; 31 severe, MELD score >20) and 22 healthy controls (HCs) were collected. Clinical, drinking history (lifetime drinking history [LTDH]), and demographic data were collected. Antibody tests for immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM, and IgA against two P. gingivalis strains were performed. Between‐group comparisons and within‐group association analyses were carried out. Patients with severe AAH showed significantly higher plasma levels of IgG, IgA, and IgM against two P. gingivalis strains (W83 and 33277) compared to HCs. Patients with moderate AAH also had significantly elevated anti‐P. gingivalis IgA concentrations for both strains compared to HCs. Male patients with moderate AAH showed a significant inverse association in LTDH and anti‐P. gingivalis IgM. The aspartate aminotransferase:alanine aminotransferase ratio was positively associated with IgM of both strains in male patients with moderate AAH. Female patients with severe AAH showed a significant association between MELD scores and W83 IgM. Conclusion: Antibody response to P. gingivalis in AAH is elevated. Significantly elevated plasma anti‐P. gingivalis IgG, IgA, and IgM in severe AAH provide preliminary data that P. gingivalis could be a novel risk factor in the development/severity of AAH.
Psychological effect of cervical cancer screening when changing primary screening method from cytology to high‐risk human papilloma virus testing
Authors: Andreassen Trude , Hansen Bo T. , Engesæter Birgit , Hashim Dana , Støer Nathalie C. , Tropé Ameli , Moen Kåre , Ursin Giske , Weiderpass Elisabete
Published: December 2018

From 2015, Norway has implemented high‐risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) testing in primary screening for cervical cancer. Women aged 34–69 years, living in four counties, have been pseudo‐randomly assigned (1:1 randomization) to either hrHPV testing every 5 years (followed by cytology if hrHPV is positive), or cytology testing every 3 years (followed by hrHPV testing if low‐grade cytology is detected). We compared anxiety and depression scores among participants by screening arm and results. In total, 1,008 women answered a structured questionnaire that included the validated Patient Health Questionnaire‐4 (PHQ‐4). The Relative Risk Ratio (RRR) of mild vs. normal anxiety and depression scores, and moderate/severe vs. normal anxiety and depression scores, were estimated by multinomial logistic regression with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Compared to women who were screened with cytology, women randomized to hrHPV testing were not more likely to have mild anxiety and depression scores (RRR 0.96, CI 0.70–1.31) nor more likely to have moderate/severe anxiety and depression scores (RRR 1.14, CI 0.65–2.02). Women with five different combinations of abnormal screening test results were not more likely to have mild or moderate/severe vs. normal anxiety and depression scores than women with normal screening results. The likelihood of having abnormal long‐term (4–24 months after the screening) anxiety or depression scores among women 34 years and older was not affected by screening method or screening results. The results of our study suggest that a change to hrHPV testing in primary screening would not increase psychological distress among participants.
Effects of Whole‐Body Vibration Therapy on Distal Tibial Myotendinous Density and Volume: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Boggild Miranda K , Tomlinson George , Erlandson Marta C , Szabo Eva , Giangregorio Lora M , Craven B Catharine , Slatkovska Lubomira , Alibhai Shabbir MH , Cheung Angela M
Published: December 2018

Whole‐body vibration (WBV) therapy has been proposed as a therapy to reduce sarcopenia and improve muscle strength. The purpose of this study was to explore whether 12 months of WBV therapy increases myotendinous density and volume of the distal tibia as measured by HR‐pQCT in postmenopausal women in a parallel group, randomized controlled trial with 1:1:1 allocation to three arms. Postmenopausal women (N = 202) with low hip BMD were randomized to 20 min daily of 0.3g 30‐Hz WBV therapy, 0.3g 90‐Hz WBV therapy using the Juvent platform (Juvent, Somerset, NJ, USA), or no WBV. The main outcome measure was myotendinous density (HU) and volume (mm3) at the distal tibia measured at baseline and 12 months with HR‐pQCT. There were no significant effects on myotendinous density or volume at the distal tibia after 12 months of daily 30‐ or 90‐Hz WBV therapy compared with no WBV therapy. Mean change (SD) in myotendinous density from baseline was 4.6 (5.7) HU in the 30‐Hz WBV group, 3.9 (6.1) HU in the 90‐Hz WBV group, and 3.9 (5.4) HU in the control group (p = 0.70). Mean change (SD) in myotendinous volume from baseline was −7 (503) mm3 in the 30‐Hz WBV group, 111 (615) mm3 in the 90‐Hz WBV group, and 35 (615) mm3 in the control group (p = 0.50). In conclusion, WBV therapy at 30‐ or 90‐Hz for 12 months had no significant effects on myotendinous density or volume at the distal tibia as measured by HR‐pQCT in postmenopausal women. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Calculation of hot spots for protein–protein interaction in p53/PMI‐MDM2/MDMX complexes
Authors: Huang Dading , Qi Yifei , Song Jianing , Zhang John Z. H.
Published: December 2018

The recently developed MM/GBSA_IE method is applied to computing hot and warm spots in p53/PMI‐MDM2/MDMX protein–protein interaction systems. Comparison of the calculated hot (>2 kcal/mol) and warm spots (>1 kcal/mol) in P53 and PMI proteins interacting with MDM2 and MDMX shows a good quantitative agreement with the available experimental data. Further, our calculation predicted hot spots in MDM2 and MDMX proteins in their interactions with P53 and PMI and they help elucidate the interaction mechanism underlying this important PPI system. In agreement with the experimental result, the present calculation shows that PMI has more hot and warm spots and binds stronger to MDM2/MDMX. The analysis of these hot and warm spots helps elucidate the fundamental difference in binding between P53 and PMI to the MDM2/MDMX systems. Specifically, for p53/PMI‐MDM2 systems, p53 and PMI use essentially the same residues (L54, I61, Y67, Q72, V93, H96, and I99) of MDM2 for binding. However, PMI enhanced interactions with residues L54, Y67, and Q72 of MDM2. For the p53/PMI‐MDMX system, p53 and PMI use similar residues (M53, I60, Y66, Q71, V92, and Y99) of MDMX for binding. However, PMI exploited three extra residues (M61, K93, and L98) of MDMX for enhanced binding. In addition, PMI enhanced interaction with four residues (M53, Y66, Q71, and Y99) of MDMX. These results gave quantitative explanation on why the binding affinities of PMI‐MDM2/MDMX interactions are stronger than that of p53‐MDM2/MDMX although their binding modes are similar. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of an underdamped vibration with both diagonal and off‐diagonal exciton–phonon interactions on excitation energy transfer
Authors: Wang Yu‐Chen , Zhao Yi
Published: December 2018

A numerically exact approach, named as the hierarchical stochastic Schrödinger equation, is employed to investigate the resonant vibration‐assisted excitation energy transfer in a dimer system, where an underdamped vibration with both diagonal and off‐diagonal exciton–phonon interactions is incorporated. From a large parameter space over the site‐energy difference, excitonic coupling, and reorganization energy, it is found that the promotion effect of the underdamped vibration is significant only when the excitonic coupling is smaller than the site‐energy difference. Under the circumstance, there is an optimal strength ratio between diagonal and off‐diagonal exciton–phonon interactions for the resonant vibration‐assisted excitation energy transfer as the site‐energy difference is greater than the reorganization energy, whereas in the opposite situation the most efficient energy transfer occurs as the exciton–phonon interaction is totally off‐diagonal. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigations of the hydrogen bond in the crystals of tropolone and thiotropolone via car‐parrinello and path integral molecular dynamics
Authors: Durlak Piotr , Latajka Zdzisław
Published: December 2018

Car‐Parrinello and path integrals molecular dynamics (CPMD and PIMD) simulations were carried out for the 10π‐electron aromatic systems: 2‐hydroxy‐2,4,6‐cycloheptatrien‐1‐one, commonly known as Tropolone (I) and 2‐hydroxy‐2,4,6‐cycloheptatriene‐1‐thione, called Thiotropolone (II) in vacuo and in the solid state. The extremely fast proton transfer (FPT) and “prototropy” tautomerism in the keto‐enol (thione‐enethiol) systems have been analyzed on the basis of CPMD and PIMD methods level. Comparisons of two‐dimensional (2D) free‐energy landscapes of reaction coordinate δ‐parameter and RO…O or RO…S distances shows that the OH… tautomer to be more favorable in the Thiotropolone. The hydrogen between the oxygen and the sulfur atoms adopts a starkly asymmetrical position in the double potential well. The values of the energy barriers for the FPT were calculated and suggested a strong hydrogen bond with low barrier for FPT mechanism. These studies and the 2D average index of π‐delocalization 〈λ〉 landscape of time evolutions of RO1…O2 and RC7O2 or RC7S1 distances for the both crystals indicate that hydrogen bonds in the crystals of Tropolone (I) and Thiotropolone (II) have characteristic properties for the type of bonding model resonance‐assisted hydrogen bonds and also low‐barrier hydrogen bonds. In the crystal of the Thiotropolone (II), we found the hydrogen bond OH…S existing without the equilibrium of the two tautomers whereas in the crystal of the Tropolone (I) has been confirmed the hydrogen bond OH…O existing with the equilibrium of the two tautomers. It was also found the significant differences in frequency, speed, and the image of the FPT in the studied crystals. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dual Therapy Coating on Micro/Nanoscale Porous Polyetheretherketone to Eradicate Biofilms and Accelerate Bone Tissue Repair
Authors: Deng Lijun , He Xianhua , Xie Kenan , Xie Lu , Deng Yi
Published: December 2018

Defective osteogenesis and latent infections continue to be two major issues in the therapy of bone tissue regeneration. In this study, a unique hierarchically micro/nanoscale‐architecture is first proposed and produced on polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Besides, a “simvastatin‐PLLA film‐tobramycin microspheres” delivery system is subsequently fabricated to endow the PEEK implant with osteogenic and antibacterial capabilities. In vitro antibacterial evaluations confirm that the decorated PEEK scaffolds possess excellent resistance against planktonic/adherent bacteria. In vitro cell attachment/proliferation, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) content, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium mineral deposition experiments, and real‐time PCR analysis all exhibit that the superior proliferation rate and osteo‐differentiation potential of MC3T3‐E1 pre‐osteoblasts are presented on the PEEK samples with dual functional decoration. In the mouse calvarial defect model, the micro‐CT and histological results demonstrate that our scaffolds display a remarkable bone forming capability. Generally, the PEEK scaffolds co‐endowed with simvastatin and tobramycin microspheres possess great potential in clinics.
Recruit and retain adult students in times of low unemployment
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2018

In April 2018, the U.S. economy reported an unemployment rate of 3.9 percent, one of the lowest since the economic recession of 2008. Historically, low unemployment rates spell doom for college and university enrollment — particularly for adult education programs. The Recruiting & Retaining Adult Learners Advisory Board convened to speak about the challenges currently facing those who work in adult education, as well as the solutions different campuses have found to boost enrollment and graduation rates.
Uncover unconscious bias to advance racial equity
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2018

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In an increasingly polarized world, learning how to have difficult conversations and build spaces on campus that advance racial equity is a more and more important skill. “Unconscious bias lives in all of us,” said Mee Moua, principal at Interdependent Group LLC and consultant at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, at a session on advancing racial equity presented at the annual conference of the Association of American Colleges and Universities.
More expression, less function: cleaved dynamin in glomerular kidney disease
Authors: Altintas Mehmet M , Reiser Jochen
Published: December 2018

The role of dynamin in regulation of kidney filtration barrier is well documented. Dynamin binds to and produces filamentous actin, which is a key component of healthy podocyte foot processes (FPs). Destruction of dynamin, for example by cathepsin L, leads to loss of a functional actin network and uncoordinated membrane signaling, a situation that allows for effacement of FPs and proteinuria. Now, Khalil et al have examined the dynamin expression in kidneys of proteinuric animal models as well as in kidney patients and produced data that further clarifies the role of dynamin in glomerular and tubular proteinuria and may aid in pinpointing patients who are affected by loss of dynamin function and may benefit from appropriate therapeutic approaches. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical and dielectric properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride)/polybenzimidazole functionalized graphene nanocomposites
Authors: Maity Nirmal , Mandal Amit , Roy Kaustuv , Nandi Arun K.
Published: December 2018

Polymer‐based nanocomposites with good dielectric behavior have engrossed research devotion because of their distinctive benefits in electronic applications. An in situ synthetic process for the polybenzimidazole functionalized graphene oxide (GBI) and its nanocomposite with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is described. GBI shows good dispersion in the bulk PVDF matrix implying a strong interaction of polybenzimidazole with PVDF as evident from morphological and FTIR studies. A gradual increment of GBI in PVDF increases its piezoelectric β‐polymorph formation with a maximum of 73% for 10 wt % GBI in PVDF (GBF10) which also exhibits highest thermal stability. An exhaustive study of frequency dependent electrical properties of GBF10 indicates significantly higher dielectric constant (61), low dielectric loss (0.42), and low AC conductivity value of 1.17 × 10−10 S/cm at 100 Hz which are the key properties of a suitable capacitor. GBF10 also shows hydrophobic behavior (water uptake 2.89%) and low swelling ratio (1.143), providing an opportunity to use the composite film in fuel cell application. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 189–201
Facile Functionalization of Gold Nanoparticles with PLGA Polymer Brushes and Efficient Encapsulation into PLGA Nanoparticles: Toward Spatially Precise Bioimaging of Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Alkilany Alaaldin M. , Abulateefeh Samer R. , Murphy Catherine J.
Published: December 2018

Nanocarriers prepared from poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) have broad biomedical applications. Understanding their cellular uptake and distribution requires appropriate visualization in complex biological compartments with high spatial resolution, which cannot be offered by traditional imaging techniques based on fluorescent or radioactive probes. Herein, the encapsulation of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) into PLGA nanoparticles is proposed, which should allow precise spatial visualization in cells using electron microscopy. Available protocols for encapsulating GNPs into polymeric matrices are limited and associated with colloidal instability and low encapsulation efficiency. In this report, the following are described: 1) a facile protocol to functionalize GNPs with PLGA polymer followed by 2) encapsulation of the prepared PLGA‐capped GNPs into PLGA nanocarriers with 100% encapsulation efficiency. The remarkable encapsulation of PLGA‐GNPs into PLGA matrix obeys the general rule in chemistry “like dissolves like” as evident from poor encapsulation of GNPs capped with other polymers. Moreover, it is shown that how the encapsulated gold nanoparticles serve as nanoprobes to visualize PLGA polymeric hosts inside cancer cells at the spatial resolution of the electron microscope. The described methods should be applicable to a wide range of inorganic nanoprobes and provide a new method of labeling pharmaceutical polymeric nanocarriers to understand their biological fate at high spatial resolution.
Voiding behavior and chronic pelvic pain in two types of rat nonbacterial prostatitis models: Attenuation of chronic pelvic pain by repeated administration of tadalafil
Authors: Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Kurita Maki , Okamoto Ken , Kotera Takashi , Oka Michiko
Published: December 2018

Background

Experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) and prostatitis induced by 17β‐estradiol treatment combined with castration (hormone/castration‐induced prostatitis; HCP) are the most commonly used rodent models of nonbacterial prostatitis. We studied the effect of the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor tadalafil on chronic pelvic pain in two such models in rats.

Methods

EAP was induced by intradermal injection of rat prostate antigen and complete Freund's adjuvant on Days 0 and 28. HCP was induced by castration followed by daily subcutaneous injection of 17β‐estradiol for 30 days. On Day 42 after antigen injection in the EAP model and Day 30 after castration in the HCP model, we investigated voiding behavior, pelvic pain (measured by applying von Frey filaments to the lower abdomen), and inflammatory changes, including changes in histopathology and IL‐1β, CCL2, and CCL3 mRNA levels. We investigated the effect of repeated administration of tadalafil on chronic pelvic pain in both models.

Results

In the EAP model, we observed inflammation in the ventral prostate, while in the HCP model, we observed inflammation in the lateral lobe of the prostate. Neither model showed any change in voiding behavior. As well as in the EAP model, in which chronic pelvic pain was observed, we found for the first time that HCP led to a significant increase in chronic pelvic pain. Repeated treatment with tadalafil attenuated the chronic pelvic pain in both models.

Conclusions

Chronic pelvic pain was induced in both EAP and HCP models. Tadalafil significantly attenuated the chronic pelvic pain in both models.
Ultralong‐Life Quasi‐Solid‐State Li‐O2 Batteries Enabled by Coupling Advanced Air Electrode Design with Li Metal Anode Protection
Authors: Zhao Changtai , Liang Jianneng , Sun Qian , Luo Jing , Liu Yulong , Lin Xiaoting , Zhao Yang , Yadegari Hossein , Banis Mohammad Norouzi , Li Ruying , Huang Huan , Zhang Li , Yang Rong , Lu Shigang , Sun Xueliang
Published: December 2018

Development of Li‐O2 batteries with ultrahigh theoretical energy density is highly desired to meet the ever‐increasing demand of energy density. However, safety concerns and cycling life have become main bottlenecks that inhibit the practical applications of Li‐O2 batteries because of the use of organic liquid electrolytes (LEs) and the noneffective air electrodes. Gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) are reported to be used in Li‐O2 batteries and show relatively improved performance than LEs, but they are still below the expectation. Herein, a quasi‐solid‐state Li‐O2 battery constructed with a GPE and a high‐efficiency air electrode is proposed. Excellent electrochemical performance is demonstrated beyond the batteries with LE, evidenced by the ultralong cycle life of up to 553 cycles and stable operating time for over 1100 h. The elongated cycling life benefits from the role of GPE in blocking O2 crossover, protecting Li metal, and avoiding electrolyte evaporation compared with LE. It is expected that the present study can shed light on the future study on developing efficient catalysts for (quasi) solid‐state Li‐O2 battery.
Inactive yeast biomass and mannoproteins influence the retention and biodegradation of biodiesel in soil
Authors: Kreling Naiara Elisa , Zaparoli Munise , Cecchin Iziquiel , Thomé Antonio , Reddy Krishna Rajireddigari , Colla Luciane Maria
Published: December 2018

We evaluated the influence of yeast biomass and mannoproteins in the biodegradation and retention of biodiesel in soil. After 60 days of experiments, the biomass reached a biodegradation of 81%, a considerably higher value than reached through natural attenuation (3.6%). The adsorption of contaminants was 20%, indicating interactions between soil and biostimulants.
Legitimate educational interest and the health and safety emergency exception: Part 2
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: December 2018

April 16, 2007 — the day Seung‐Hui Cho, a troubled senior English major at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, killed 32 people and wounded 17 more with two semi‐automatic pistols. He then turned one of the pistols on himself, pulled the trigger, and died instantly.
Focus on students to manage rapid growth, constant change
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: December 2018

When Brian C. Boyd arrived at the University of Central Florida in 2006, the enrollment was 45,000 students. Currently, it's about 68,000, said Boyd, who is now university registrar and executive director.
Advances in the study of egg activation of higher plants
Authors: Peng Li , Li Zhen Kai , Ding Xiao Li , Tian Hui Qiao
Published: December 2018

Fertilization in higher plants induces many structural and physiological changes in the fertilized egg, and represents the transition from the haploid female gamete to the diploid zygote, the first cell of a sporophyte. Some changes are induced extremely rapidly following fusion with sperm cells and are the preclusions of egg activation. This review focuses on the early changes that occur in the egg after fusion with sperm cells, but before nuclear fusion. Reported changes include cell shrinkage, cell wall formation, polarity change, oscillation in Ca2+ concentration, and DNA synthesis. In addition, the current understanding of egg activation is summarized and the possible functional relevance of the changes is explored.
Supplementation with beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate impacts glucose homeostasis and increases liver size in trained mice
Authors: Schadock Ines , Freitas Barbara G. , Moreira Irae L. , Rincon Joao A. , Correa Marcio Nunes , Zanella Renata , Silva Evelise Sampaio , Araujo Ronaldo Carvalho , Buchweitz Marcia Rubia D , Helbig Elizabete , Del Vecchio Fabricio B , Schneider Augusto , Barros Carlos Castilho
Published: December 2018

Abstract. β-hydroxy-β-methyl butyrate (HMB) is a bioactive metabolite derived from the amino acid leucine, usually applied for muscle mass increase during physical training, as well as for muscle mass maintenance in debilitating chronic diseases. The hypothesis of the present study is that HMB is a safe supplement for muscle mass gain by strength training. Based on this, the objective was to measure changes in body composition, glucose homeostasis and hepatic metabolism of HMB supplemented mice during strength training. Two of four groups of male mice (n = 6/group) underwent an 8-week training period session (climbing stairs) with or without HMB supplementation (190 mg/kgBW per day). We observed lower body mass gain (4.9 ± 0.43% versus 1.2 ± 0.43, p < 0.001) and increased liver mass (40.9 ± 0.9 mg/gBW versus 44.8 ± 1.3, p < 0.001) in the supplemented trained group compared with the non-supplemented groups. The supplemented trained group had an increase in relative adipose tissue mass (12.4 ± 0.63 mg/gBW versus 16.1 ± 0.88, P < 0.01) compared to the non-supplemented untrained group, and an increase in fasting blood glucose (111 ± 4.58 mg/dL versus 122 ± 3.70, P < 0.05) and insulin resistance (3.79 ± 0.19 % glucose decay/min versus 2.45 ± 0.28, P < 0.05) comparing with non-supplemented trained group. Adaptive heart hypertrophy was observed only in the non-supplemented trained group (4.82 ± 0.05 mg/gBW versus 5.12 ± 0.13, P < 0.05). There was a higher hepatic insulin-like growth factor-1 expression (P = 0.002) in supplemented untrained comparing with non-supplemented untrained group. Gene expression of gluconeogenesis regulatory factors was increased by training and reduced by HMB supplementation. These results confirm that HMB supplementation associated with intensive training protocol drives changes in glucose homeostasis and liver metabolism in mice.
Sen. Murkowski Warns About the Impact of Climate Change
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2018

The senator from Alaska says the impact of climate change in her state “is real, it is happening, it is now, and almost none of these changes are for the better for us.”
Author Correction: Reprogramming triggers endogenous L1 and Alu retrotransposition in human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Klawitter Sabine , Fuchs Nina V. , Upton Kyle R. , Muñoz-Lopez Martin , Shukla Ruchi , Wang Jichang , Garcia-Cañadas Marta , Lopez-Ruiz Cesar , Gerhardt Daniel J. , Sebe Attila , Grabundzija Ivana , Merkert Sylvia , Gerdes Patricia , Pulgarin J. Andres , Bock Anja , Held Ulrike , Witthuhn Anett , Haase Alexandra , Sarkadi Balázs , Löwer Johannes , Wolvetang Ernst J. , Martin Ulrich , Ivics Zoltán , Izsvák Zsuzsanna , Garcia-Perez Jose L. , Faulkner Geoffrey J. , Schumann Gerald G.
Published: December 2018

This Article contains an error in the author affiliations. The correct affiliation for author Ruchi Shukla is ‘MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK’, and is not ‘Mater Research Institute – University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia’.
Predicting coral dynamics through climate change
Authors: Woesik Robert van , Köksal Semen , Ünal Arzu , Cacciapaglia Chris W. , Randall Carly J.
Published: December 2018

Thermal-stress events are changing the composition of many coral reefs worldwide. Yet, determining the rates of coral recovery and their long-term responses to increasing sea-surface temperatures is challenging. To do so, we first estimated coral recovery rates following past disturbances on reefs in southern Japan and Western Australia. Recovery rates varied between regions, with the reefs in southern Japan showing more rapid recovery rates (intrinsic rate of increase, r = 0.38 year−1) than reefs in Western Australia (r = 0.17 year−1). Second, we input these recovery rates into a novel, nonlinear hybrid-stochastic-dynamical system to predict the responses of Indo-Pacific coral populations to complex inter-annual temperature cycles into the year 2100. The coral recovery rates were overlaid on background increases in global sea-surface temperatures, under three different climate-change scenarios. The models predicted rapid recovery at both localities with the infrequent and low-magnitude temperature anomalies expected under a conservative climate-change scenario, Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5. With moderate increases in ocean temperatures (RCP 6.0) the coral populations showed a bimodal response, with model runs showing either recovery or collapse. Under a business-as-usual climate-change scenario (RCP 8.5), with frequent and intense temperature anomalies, coral recovery was unlikely.
Author Correction: Heterogeneity of hard skin layer in wrinkled PDMS surface fabricated by Ar ion-beam irradiation
Authors: Lee Seunghun , Byeon Eunyeon , Jung Sunghoon , Kim Do-Geun
Published: December 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Effect of BI-1 on insulin resistance through regulation of CYP2E1
Authors: Lee Geum-Hwa , Oh Kyoung-Jin , Kim Hyung-Ryong , Han Hye-Sook , Lee Hwa-Young , Park Keun-Gyu , Nam Ki-Hoan , Koo Seung-Hoi , Chae Han-Jung
Published: December 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has not been fixed in the paper.
Downwind footprint of an urban heat island on air and lake temperatures
Authors: Cosgrove Ann , Berkelhammer Max
Published: December 2018

The urban heat island (UHI) effect was first documented ~200 years ago, making it the longest recognized anthropogenic effect on climate. Although anomalous heating in cities has been meticulously characterized, less is known about how the UHI affects surrounding regions. It is hypothesized that downwind of cities a “heat plume” forms due to the advection of urban heat. This heat transport may have impacts beyond heating of the surface, such as disrupting atmospheric convection and influencing boundary layer structure, which influences weather, air quality, and human health. Here, a lagrangian atmospheric transport model, forced with archived data from a numerical weather model, is used to generate a three-dimensional map of an urban heat plume for a major city, Chicago. We document significant heating 100–200 m above the surface and 70 km downwind of the city. Over Lake Michigan, the scale of the plume is truncated nearly in half (~40 km), suggesting the lake is acting as a sink for the exported urban heat. Using satellite lake surface temperatures, we observed a disruption of the diurnal pattern of lake temperature beneath the plume, which supports a possible role of the lake in absorbing the heat plume. The results provide unique quasi-observational evidence for a significant footprint of cities on regional atmospheric structure and potentially on adjacent aquatic bodies.
Optimising amperometric pH sensing in blood samples: an iridium oxide electrode for blood pH sensing
Authors: Chaisiwamongkhol Korbua , Batchelor-McAuley Christopher , Compton Richard G.
Published: December 2018

The use of iridium oxide supported on an iridium micro-disc electrode as a pH probe for amperometric blood pH sensingviaCV and SWV is reported.
Synthesis of hierarchical MFI zeolites with a micro–macroporous core@mesoporous shell structure
Authors: Zhang Yunjuan , Han Xinbao , Che Shunai
Published: December 2018

Core–shell structured ZSM-5 zeolites were synthesized by using a bifunctional surfactant containing alkene group in the hydrophobic tail.
A stimuli-responsive and chemically tunable organic microcrystal laser switch
Authors: Cai Xin , Xu Zhenzhen , Zheng Xiaolin , Ran Chenhui , Liu Peng , He Xianxiong , Jin Xue , Liao Qing , Fu Hongbing
Published: December 2018

We demonstrated a stimuli-responsive and chemically switchable organic microbelt laser through reversible protonation–deprotonation reactions.
Electrochemical CO2 reduction in water at carbon cloth electrodes functionalized with a fac-Mn(apbpy)(CO)3Br complex
Authors: Rotundo Laura , Filippi Jonathan , Gobetto Roberto , Miller Hamish A. , Rocca Riccardo , Nervi Carlo , Vizza Francesco
Published: December 2018

The carbon-cloth-supported organometallic complex (fac-Mn(apbpy)(CO)3Br) reduces CO2 to syngas in aqueous media with a FE of 60% and a TON of up to 33 200.
A new strategy for achieving single-molecular white-light emission: using vibration-induced emission (VIE) plus aggregation-induced emission (AIE) mechanisms as a two-pronged approach
Authors: Wang Huan , Li Yiru , Zhang Yiyao , Mei Ju , Su Jianhua
Published: December 2018

Single-molecular white-light emissions were achieved through the simple but judicious combination of vibration-induced emission (VIE) and aggregation-induced emission (AIE) mechanisms.
A mesoporous NNN-pincer-based metal–organic framework scaffold for the preparation of noble-metal-free catalysts
Authors: Zhang Yingmu , Li Jialuo , Yang Xinyu , Zhang Peng , Pang Jiandong , Li Bao , Zhou Hong-Cai
Published: December 2018

A terpyridine-based mesoporous 3D MOF was synthesized as a general scaffold for catalyst preparation.