bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal immigrant status and signs of neurodevelopmental problems in early childhood: The French representative ELFE birth cohort
Authors: Schmengler Heiko , El‐Khoury Lesueur Fabienne , Yermachenko Anna , Taine Marion , Cohen David , Peyre Hugo , Saint‐Georges Catherine , Thierry Xavier , Melchior Maria
Published: August 2019

A growing body of evidence suggests that children of immigrants may have increased risks of neurodevelopmental disorders. However, evidence based on parent report and on very young children is lacking. We therefore investigated the association between maternal immigrant status and early signs of neurodevelopmental problems in a population‐based sample of 2‐year‐old children using standardized parent‐report instruments. We used data from the French representative Étude Longitudinale Française depuis l'Enfance birth cohort, initiated in 2011. The study sample included 9,900 children of nonimmigrant French, 1,403 children of second, and 1,171 children of first generation immigrant women followed‐up to age 2 years. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M‐CHAT) and an adaptation of the MacArthur‐Bates Communicative Development Inventories (MB‐CDI). In fully adjusted linear regression models, maternal immigrant status was associated with M‐CHAT scores, with stronger associations in children of first (β‐coefficient: 0.19; 95% CI 0.08–0.29) than second generation immigrants (0.09; 0.01–0.17). This association was especially strong among children of first generation immigrant mothers native of North Africa (vs. nonimmigrant French: 0.33; 0.16–0.49) and French‐speaking Sub‐Saharan Africa (0.26; 0.07–0.45). MB‐CDI scores were lowest among children of first generation immigrant mothers, particularly from mostly non‐francophone regions. Children of first generation immigrant mothers were most likely to have simultaneously low MB‐CDI and high M‐CHAT scores. Our findings suggest that maternal immigrant status is associated with early signs of neurodevelopmental difficulties, with strong variations according to maternal region of origin. Further research is necessary to test whether these associations persist and to determine the underlying mechanisms. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1845–1859. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

We asked immigrant and nonimmigrant mothers in France about early signs of neurodevelopmental problems in their 2‐year‐old children. Overall, we found that children of immigrants may be at higher risk of showing these early warning signs, as compared to children of nonimmigrants. This is in line with previous studies, which were based on doctors' diagnoses at later ages. However, our results differed depending on the mothers' regions of origin. We found the highest risks in children of first generation immigrants from North and French‐speaking Sub‐Saharan Africa, who also seemed especially at risk of neurodevelopmental problems combined with low language development.
Cooperation and coordination across cultures and contexts: Individual, sociocultural, and contextual factors jointly influence decision making in the volunteer's dilemma game
Authors: Olivola Christopher Y. , Kim Yeonjeong , Merzel Avraham , Kareev Yaakov , Avrahami Judith , Ritov Ilana
Published: August 2019

What factors promote or hinder volunteering within organizations and groups? This paper simultaneously explores the impact of individual, contextual, and sociocultural variables on decision making in a special type of social dilemma: the volunteer's dilemma game (VDG). The VDG provides a controlled experimental method for studying volunteering behaviors in an anonymous interactive environment. We developed six variations of the VDG and administered them to economics students in five different cultures (Ntotal = 603). Among other things, these VDGs varied whether the potential benefits of volunteering were certain or uncertain. Although the overall level of volunteering did not vary substantially across most cultural groups, we found that culture interacted with the size and (un)certainty of the benefits associated with volunteering, to influence volunteering decisions. We also found that religiosity (but not religious affiliation per se) increases volunteering and that men are less likely to volunteer when the returns to doing so are certain. These results extend our knowledge of behaviors in the VDG, and their potential drivers, with clear implications for understanding how culture, individual characteristics, and context jointly influence prosocial behavior and coordination.
Characterization of Levels of Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Fields Emitted From Portable Hand‐Held Fans
Authors: Choi Sangjun , Kim Soyeon , Bae Seoyoun , Kim Won , Park Ju‐Hyun , Chung Eunkyo , Park Jihoon , Park Dong‐Uk
Published: August 2019

This study aims to assess the levels of extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF‐MF) emitted from portable hand‐held fans (HHFs) and their principal frequency and to identify factors influencing these levels. We collected a total of eleven models of HHF and monitored the ELF‐MF as a function of fan speed and distance from the fan. EMDEX II was used to monitor the ELF‐MF. An SMP2 EMF‐meter equipped with a P400 field probe was used to determine the levels of ELF‐MF and the frequency spectrum. Ten of the fans, excluding only one bladeless‐fan model, emitted a high level of ELF‐MF near the source of the HHF direct‐current motor. The maximum measured level of ELF‐MF ranged from 14.07 to 218.7 µT. All measurements of the ELF‐MF taken within 10 cm from the HHFs showed values higher than 1.0 µT. ELF‐MF levels were found to decrease markedly with distance, regardless of the HHF product. The level of ELF‐MF rose noticeably with increased fan speed. The speed of and distance from the HHF significantly influenced the level of ELF‐MF. All principal frequencies ranged from 1 to 300 Hz, which falls in the typical range of ELF. Bioelectromagnetics. 2019;40:569–577. © 2019 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Immune Regulation in Eutherian Pregnancy: Live Birth Coevolved with Novel Immune Genes and Gene Regulation
Authors: Moon Jiyun M. , Capra John A. , Abbot Patrick , Rokas Antonis
Published: August 2019

Novel regulatory elements that enabled expression of pre‐existing immune genes in reproductive tissues and novel immune genes with pregnancy‐specific roles in eutherians have shaped the evolution of mammalian pregnancy by facilitating the emergence of novel mechanisms for immune regulation over its course. Trade‐offs arising from conflicting fitness effects on reproduction and host defenses have further influenced the patterns of genetic variation of these genes. These three mechanisms (novel regulatory elements, novel immune genes, and trade‐offs) played a pivotal role in refining the regulation of maternal immune systems during pregnancy in eutherians, likely facilitating the establishment of prolonged direct maternal–fetal contact in eutherians without causing immunological rejection of the genetically distinct fetus.
Construction and operation of a multiplexed microfiltration device to facilitate rapid pathogen detection
Authors: Zuponcic Jessica , Bomrad Casey , Ku Seockmo , Foster Kirk , Ximenes Eduardo , Ladisch Michael R.
Published: August 2019

Millions of Americans contract food poisoning or are affected by microbial pathogens each year. Rapid, sensitive detection of dilute levels of pathogens in foods, produce, water, and biomanufacturing process samples is key to consumer protection; however, current enrichment methods require as much as a full day to enrich viable bacterial pathogens to detectable levels. Our lab previously demonstrated the ability to concentrate and detect dilute levels of pathogens, within 8 hr, from various food matrices using microfiltration in our continuous cell concentration device (i.e., C3D) with one or two filter modules. This short communication describes the design, materials and construction, layout, and operational characteristics of a four filter module multiplexed system based on a four channel device. Benefits are a 2× greater sample capacity than an equivalent duplex system (achieving the same time to result of less than 8 hr from sample preparation to detection), simpler operation, and a footprint enabling operation inside a biosafety cabinet instead of requiring a BSL‐2 room. Flow rate variability through four channels fit within an operational envelope of ±3%; flow rates are reproducible from one run to the next thus ensuring relatively simple, concurrent processing of samples.
Preparation of immobilized/stabilized biocatalysts of β‐glucosidases from different sources: Importance of the support active groups and the immobilization protocol
Authors: de Andrades Diandra , Graebin Natália G. , Ayub Marco A. Z. , Fernandez‐Lafuente Roberto , Rodrigues Rafael C.
Published: August 2019

β‐Glucosidases from two different commercial preparations, Pectinex Ultra SP‐L and Celluclast® 1.5L, were immobilized on divinylsulfone (DVS) supports at pH 5.0, 7.0, 9.0, and 10. In addition, the biocatalysts were also immobilized in agarose beads activated by glyoxyl, and epoxide as reagent groups. The best immobilization results were observed using higher pH values on DVS‐agarose, and for Celluclast® 1.5L, good results were also obtained using the glyoxil‐agarose immobilization. The biocatalyst obtained using Pectinex Ultra SP‐L showed the highest thermal stability, at 65°C, and an operational stability of 67% of activity after 10 reuses cycles when immobilized on DVS‐agarose immobilized at pH 10 and blocked with ethylenediamine. The β‐glucosidase from Celluclast® 1.5L produced best results when immobilized on DVS‐agarose immobilized at pH 9 and blocked with glycine, reaching 7.76‐fold higher thermal stability compared to its free form and maintaining 76% of its activity after 10 successive cycles. The new biocatalysts obtained by these protocols showed reduction of glucose inhibition of enzymes, demonstrating the influence of immobilization protocols, pH, and blocking agent.
pH effects on the lipid and fatty acids accumulation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Ochoa‐Alfaro Ana E. , Gaytán‐Luna Daniel E. , González‐Ortega Omar , Zavala‐Arias Karla G. , Paz‐Maldonado Luz M. T. , Rocha‐Uribe Alejandro , Soria‐Guerra Ruth E.
Published: August 2019

pH variations influence the delivery of essential nutrients and CO2 solubility, which impact algae metabolism. In this study the microalgal growth and chlorophyll, lipid, and fatty acids content; along with the expression of some genes implicated in the biosynthesis of lipids were examined in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii subjected to pH values of 7.0, 7.8, and 8.5. At pH 7.8 an increase in cell growth was observed with a significant accumulation of chlorophyll (1.75‐fold) when compared with growth at pH 7, while at pH 8.5 a sharp decrease in both parameters was observed when compared with the other pH values tested. Lipid content increased 3.0 (14.81% of dry cell weight, dcw) and 2.3 times (11.43% dcw) at pH 7.8 and 8.5, respectively, when compared with the experiment at pH 7 (4.97% dcw). The compositions of major fatty acids in the strains growing at pH 7.0, 7.8, or 8.5 were 25.7, 28.0, and 32.1% for palmitic acid; 17.3, 14.7, and 25.7% for oleic acid; and 9.8, 12.1, and 4.6% for linoleic acid; respectively. qRT‐PCR analysis showed that the transcripts of ß‐carboxyltransferase, Acyl carrier protein 1, acyl‐ACP thiolase 1, acyl‐sn‐glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferase, and diacylglycerol acyl transferase isoform 3 were significantly induced at pH 7.8 when compared with the other two pH conditions. These results indicate that the induction of genes implicated in the early and final steps of lipid biosynthesis contributes to their accumulation in the stationary phase. Our research suggests that a pH of 7.8 might be ideal to maximize growth and lipid accumulation.
Transient Effects during Dynamic Operation of a Wall‐Cooled Fixed‐Bed Reactor for CO2Methanation
Authors: Tauer Georg , Kern Christoph , Jess Andreas
Published: August 2019

The power‐to‐gas process is an option to transform fluctuating renewable electric energy into methane via water electrolysis and subsequent conversion of H2by methanation with CO2. The dynamic behavior of the methanation reactor may then be a critical aspect. The kinetics of CO2methanation on a Ni‐catalyst were determined under isothermal and stationary conditions. Transient isothermal kinetic experiments showed a fast response of the rate on step changes of the concentrations of H2, CO2; in case of H2O, the response was delayed. Non‐isothermal experiments were conducted in a wall‐cooled fixed‐bed reactor. Temperature profiles were measured and the effect of a changing volumetric flow was studied. The experimental data were compared with simulations by a transient reactor model.
Numerical simulation of deformable particles in a Coulter counter
Authors: Taraconat Pierre , Gineys Jean‐Philippe , Isebe Damien , Nicoud Franck , Mendez Simon
Published: August 2019

In Coulter counters, cells counting and volumetry are achieved by monitoring their electrical print when they flow through a sensing zone. However, the volume measurement may be impaired by the cell dynamics, which may be difficult to control. In this paper, numerical simulations of the dynamics and electrical signature of red blood cells in a Coulter counter are presented, accounting for the deformability of the cells. In particular, a specific numerical pipeline is developed to overcome the challenge of the multi‐scale nature of the problem. It consists in segmenting the whole computation of the cell dynamics and electrical response in a series of dedicated computations, with a saving of one order of magnitude in computational time. This numerical pipeline is used with rigid spheres and deformable red blood cells in an industrial Coulter counter geometry, and compared with experimental measurements. The simulations not only reproduce electrical signatures typical of those measured experimentally, but also allow an analysis of the electrical signature in terms of the heterogeneity of the electrical field and dynamics of the particles in the measurement zone. This study provides a methodology for computing the sizing of rigid or deformable particles by Coulter counters, opening the way to a better understanding of cells signatures in such devices.
Electrode Materials with a Crater‐Type Morphology Prepared by Electrospraying for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jae‐Kwang
Published: August 2019

Rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries with good electrochemical properties require nanostructured electrode materials, which are usually prepared through complex synthesis processes. Herein, a new facile method is reported for the synthesis of high‐performance electrode materials with a crater‐like morphology through repulsion between positive charges. The produced electrode material does not possess a nanostructure. However, it is capable of rapidly transferring lithium ions and electrons owing to the large contact area with electrolyte and the high concentration sp2‐hybridized carbon coating. LiFePO4 and LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 electrodes prepared by this process achieved high discharge capacities of 165.7 and 199.9 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, with excellent rate capability of 127.5 and 162.6 mAh g−1 at 10 C, respectively. Although the crater‐type materials might decrease the electrode tap density, they facilitate better electrochemical properties such as high capacity, high power, and fast charging. Furthermore, this new method can be applied trough a sol–gel process for the synthesis of electrode materials to improve their electrochemical characteristics.
Effect of positron density and temperature on the electron acoustic waves in a magnetized dissipative plasma
Authors: Bansal Sona , Aggarwal Munish , Gill Tarsem S.
Published: August 2019

Zakharov–Kuznetsov–Burgers (ZKB) equation is derived for electron acoustic shock waves in magnetized e–p–i plasma. In the present model, magnetized plasma containing two electron population with kappa distributed positrons has been considered. The propagation characteristics of three dimensional electron acoustic (EA) shock waves have been studied under the influence of magnetic field. Our present plasma model supports the negative potential shocks. Combined action of dissipation (η), superthermality (κ), concentration of positrons (β), temperature ratio of cold electrons to positrons (σ), and magnetic field (ωc) significantly modify the properties of EA shock waves. The width and amplitude of the shock structures are modified by various physical parameters. It is found that shock wave width decreases with increase in β, η0, and ωc whereas it becomes wider for κ and σ. Further, potential of the shock wave decreases as one departs away from superthermal distribution.
Preparation for certain and uncertain future outcomes in young children and three species of monkey
Authors: Suddendorf Thomas , Watson Kate , Bogaart Maddison , Redshaw Jonathan
Published: August 2019

This study examined 3‐year old children and monkeys’ capacities to prepare for immediate future events. In Study 1, children were presented with several tube apparatuses with two exits. When targets were certain to emerge from both, children tended to prepare to catch them by covering each exit. When it was uncertain where targets would emerge, however, they tended to prepare for only one possibility. These results substantiate the claim that simultaneous preparation for mutually exclusive possibilities develops relatively late. Study 2 found no evidence for such a capacity in monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi, Cebus apella, Papio hamadryas) given the same tasks.
Green beards in the light of indirect genetic effects
Authors: Trubenová Barbora , Hager Reinmar
Published: August 2019

The green‐beard effect is one proposed mechanism predicted to underpin the evolution of altruistic behavior. It relies on the recognition and the selective help of altruists to each other in order to promote and sustain altruistic behavior. However, this mechanism has often been dismissed as unlikely or uncommon, as it is assumed that both the signaling trait and altruistic trait need to be encoded by the same gene or through tightly linked genes. Here, we use models of indirect genetic effects (IGEs) to find the minimum correlation between the signaling and altruistic trait required for the evolution of the latter. We show that this correlation threshold depends on the strength of the interaction (influence of the green beard on the expression of the altruistic trait), as well as the costs and benefits of the altruistic behavior. We further show that this correlation does not necessarily have to be high and support our analytical results by simulations.
Different sensitivity and threshold in response to nitrogen addition in four alpine grasslands along a precipitation transect on the Northern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zong Ning , Zhao Guangshuai , Shi Peili
Published: August 2019

The increase in atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition has resulted in some terrestrial ecological changes. In order to identify the response of sensitive indicators to N input and estimate the sensitivity and saturation thresholds in alpine grasslands, we set up a series of multilevel N addition experiments in four types of alpine grasslands (alpine meadow [AM], alpine meadow‐steppe [AMS], alpine steppe [AS], and alpine desert‐steppe [ADS]) along with a decreasing precipitation gradient from east to west on the Northern Tibetan Plateau. N addition only had significant effects on species diversity in AMS, while had no effects on the other three alpine grasslands. Aboveground biomass of grasses and overall community in ADS were enhanced with increasing N addition, but such effects did not occur in AS. Legume biomass in ADS and AS showed similar unimodal patterns and exhibited a decreasing tend in AM. Regression fitting showed that the most sensitive functional groups were grasses, and the N saturation thresholds were 103, 115, 136, and 156 kg N hm−2 year−1 in AM, AMS, AS, and ADS, respectively. This suggests that alpine grasslands become more and more insensitive to N input with precipitation decrease. N saturation thresholds also negatively correlated with soil N availability. N sensitivity differences caused by precipitation and nutrient availability suggest that alpine grasslands along the precipitation gradient will respond differently to atmospheric N deposition in the future global change scenario. This different sensitivity should also be taken into consideration when using N fertilization to restore degraded grasslands.
Sampling rare and elusive species: Florida east coast diamondback terrapin population abundance
Authors: Breininger David R. , Stolen Eric D. , Breininger Daniel J. , Breininger Robert D.
Published: August 2019

The Florida east coast terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin tequesta) is a rare and potentially endangered species that is difficult to survey because of poor detection probability and a patchy distribution. Like many rare species sampling programs, we apply a density and multistate occupancy sampling approach that considered the impacts of imperfect detection. We separated the detection process into availability of the animal within the sampling area (e.g., coming to surface) and perceptibility (actually seeing it). Our study employed a density estimation approach originally developed for birds, which combined time to detection and distance sampling within a Bayesian N‐mixture model. Our study also estimated two abundance occupancy states (few and many terrapins). We were able to estimate large differences in terrapin densities between sites through functions of site‐specific environmental covariates (water depth, distance to mangrove, and distance to land). The detection probability was poor (0.28) for the few terrapin occupancy state, but was much greater for many (0.75). The time to detection and distance‐sampling approach for this aquatic animal should be useful for other aquatic organisms that regularly surface. Terrapins were generally available to be sighted within four minutes but detection declined rapidly to a low probability of terrapin detection >30 m. The approach of estimating density as a function of habitat covariates to identify habitat associations can provide an effective method that combined with adaptive sampling should be useful to investigate the distribution of terrapins in open water.
Reductive Amination and Enantioselective Amine Synthesis by Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Guo Xingwei , Okamoto Yasunori , Schreier Mirjam R. , Ward Thomas R. , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: August 2019

Photochemistry usually functions on a one‐photon‐one‐electron basis, leading to unstable radical intermediates that must be intercepted rapidly to allow efficient product formation. This can render multi‐electron reductions and enantioselective reactions particularly challenging. In this minireview, we discuss recent advances in the area of photo‐driven multi‐electron transfer with a particular focus on our own work on reductive amination and the enantioselective synthesis of amines by combined photoredox and enzyme catalysis. Polarity‐matched hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) between photochemically‐generated α‐amino alkyl radicals and thiols is a key step in these reactions. A cyclic reaction network comprised of light‐driven imine reduction by an Ir‐photocatalyst and enantioselective amine oxidation by the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO‐N‐9) was used to obtain enantioenriched amines from imines.
Direct Azidation of Phenols
Authors: Kitamura Mitsuru , Murakami Kento , Koga Tatsuya , Eto Takashi , Ishikawa Akihiro , Shimooka Hirokazu , Okauchi Tatsuo
Published: August 2019

Direct azidation of phenols was developed. By treating chloroimidazolinium chloride 1b and sodium azide with phenol in the presence of a secondary amine in methoxyethanol, ortho‐azidation of phenol was achieved.
Detection of Multiple Samples Based on AlGaN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors and Magnetic Microbeads
Authors: Wang Jin , Gu Zhiqi , Miao Bin , Zhao Lei , Liu Xinsheng , Cheng Jinrong , Zhang Zhiqiang , Li Jiadong
Published: August 2019

Semiconductor biochemical sensors are regarded as robust tools for the detection of various targets. However, re‐use of these sensors is one of the major obstacles hindering further development. To address this problem, a multi‐objective platform was developed based on magnetic beads and the AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor (MBs AlGaN/GaN HEMT) device. Since the magnetic beads are capable of being fixed and released by inductance coils, the platform enables repeatability and multi‐objectivity during testing. To validate the advantages of the platform, metal ions and prostate specific antigen (PSA) were used. In this study, a platform sensing biochemical responses with a sensor was demonstrated to show the characteristics of reusability, multi‐target sensing, and simplicity, resulting in its promising prospects for widespread applications.
Synergistic Effect of Polyoxometalate and Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Peroxidase‐like Mimics and Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Sahraoui Yosra , Chaliaa Sana , Maaref Abderrazak , Haddad Amor , Bessueille Francois , Jaffrezic‐Renault Nicole
Published: August 2019

A novel Keggin‐type metatungstate hybrid POMs ((APy)6[H2W12O40])/carboxylic acid functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotube based amperometric sensing platform was successfully constructed for the sensitive detection of hydrogen peroxide. A simple and reliable procedure was implemented for the synthesis of new composite materials obtained by the covalent grafting of (APy)6[H2W12O40] onto the surface of (SWCNT‐COOH). The synergistic effect of single walled carbon nanotubes on the electrochemical behavior of (APy)6[H2W12O40] was evidenced through the increase of the oxidation and reduction peaks of the polyoxometalate. The sensitivity of hydrogen peroxide detection was increased by a factor of 38.5 in presence of SWCNTs, showing their high influence on peroxidase‐like mimics of (APy)6[H2W12O40]. The detection limit, the response time, the repeatability and the shelf lifetime were respectively 0.4 μM, 10 s, <4%, 60 days.
Analysis of thrombin‐antithrombin complex formation using microchip electrophoresis and mass spectrometry
Authors: Nielsen Jacob B. , Nielsen Anna V. , Carson Richard H. , Lin Hsien‐Jung L. , Hanson Robert L. , Sonker Mukul , Mortensen Daniel N. , Price John C. , Woolley Adam T.
Published: August 2019

Preterm birth (PTB) related health problems take over one million lives each year, and currently, no clinical analysis is available to determine if a fetus is at risk for PTB. Here, we describe the preparation of a key PTB risk biomarker, thrombin‐antithrombin (TAT), and characterize it using dot blots, MS, and microchip electrophoresis (µCE). The pH for fluorescently labeling TAT was also optimized using spectrofluorometry and spectrophotometry. The LOD of TAT was measured in µCE. Lastly, TAT was combined with six other PTB risk biomarkers and separated in µCE. The ability to make and characterize TAT is an important step toward the development of an integrated microfluidic diagnostic for PTB risk.
Bioactivation mechanisms of N‐hydroxyaristolactams: Nitroreduction metabolites of aristolochic acids
Authors: Okuno Yoshiharu , Bonala Radha , Attaluri Sivaprasad , Johnson Francis , Grollman Arthur P. , Sidorenko Viktoriya S. , Oda Yoshimitsu
Published: August 2019

Aristolochic acids (AAs) are human nephrotoxins and carcinogens found in concoctions of Aristolochia plants used in traditional medicinal practices worldwide. Genotoxicity of AAs is associated with the formation of active species catalyzed by metabolic enzymes, the full repertoire of which is unknown. Recently, we provided evidence that sulfonation is important for bioactivation of AAs. Here, we employ Salmonella typhimurium umu tester strains expressing human N‐acetyltransferases (NATs) and sulfotransferases (SULTs), to study the role of conjugation reactions in the genotoxicities of N‐hydroxyaristolactams (AL‐I‐NOH and AL‐II‐NOH), metabolites of AA‐I and AA‐II. Both N‐hydroxyaristolactams show stronger genotoxic effects in umu strains expressing human NAT1 and NAT2, than in the parent strain. Additionally, AL‐I‐NOH displays increased genotoxicity in strains expressing human SULT1A1 and SULT1A2, whereas AL‐II‐NOH shows enhanced genotoxicity in SULT1A1/2 and SULT1A3 strains. 2,6‐Dichloro‐4‐nitrophenol, SULTs inhibitor, reduced umuC gene expression induced by N‐hydroxyaristolactams in SULT1A2 strain. N‐hydroxyaristolactams are also mutagenic in parent strains, suggesting that an additional mechanism(s) may contribute to their genotoxicities. Accordingly, using putative SULT substrates and inhibitors, we found that cytosols obtained from human kidney HK‐2 cells activate N‐hydroxyaristolactams in aristolactam‐DNA adducts with the limited involvement of SULTs. Removal of low‐molecular‐weight reactants in the 3.5–10 kDa range inhibits the formation of aristolactam‐DNA by 500‐fold, which could not be prevented by the addition of cofactors for SULTs and NATs. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the genotoxicities of N‐hydroxyaristolactams depend on the cell type and involve not only sulfonation but also N,O‐acetyltransfer and an additional yet unknown mechanism(s). Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the analysis of multilevel rocking cores—A bioinspired analogy
Authors: Grigorian Mark , Kamizi Mozhgan
Published: August 2019

This article presents a simple analogy, with practical applications, between the human spine and multilevel rocking cores (MLRCs) under similar loading conditions. The use of energy dissipating rocking cores in general and MLRCs in particular is a relatively new concept for reducing earthquake damage in new and existing buildings. The literature on the subject is rather scant. There are neither official guidelines nor educational materials for practical design of MLRCs. The first step toward rational design of MLRCs is to understand their elastic state static/dynamic behavior as part of a gravity and/or earthquake resisting system. The purpose of the current paper is not to reiterate the merits of various rocking systems but to provide reliable formulae for the preliminary design of simple MLRCs. Suffice to note that the multitude of gap movements in MLRCs results in increased damping and elongated periods of vibrations. Several parametric examples have been provided to demonstrate the applications, the validity, and the simplicity of the proposed solutions. All solutions are exact within the bounds of the theoretical assumptions. All results have been verified by independent computer analysis.
Evaluation of antiseizure drug efficacy and tolerability in the rat lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model
Authors: Metcalf Cameron S. , Huff Jennifer , Thomson Kyle E. , Johnson Kristina , Edwards Sharon F. , Wilcox Karen S.
Published: August 2019

Objective

The lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model uses repeated administration of a low dose of lamotrigine during the kindling process to produce resistance to lamotrigine, which also extends to some other antiseizure drugs (ASDs). This model of pharmacoresistant epilepsy has been incorporated into the testing scheme utilized by the Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP). Although some ASDs have been evaluated in this model, a comprehensive evaluation of ASD prototypes has not been reported.

Methods

Following depth electrode implantation and recovery, rats were exposed to lamotrigine (5 mg/kg, i.p.) prior to each stimulation during the kindling development process (~3 weeks). A test dose of lamotrigine was used to confirm that fully kindled rats were lamotrigine‐resistant. Efficacy (unambiguous protection against electrically elicited convulsive seizures) was defined as a Racine score < 3 in the absence of overt compound‐induced side effects. Various ASDs, comprising several mechanistic classes, were administered to fully kindled, lamotrigine‐resistant rats. Where possible, multiple doses of each drug were administered in order to obtain median effective dose (ED50) values.

Results

Five sodium channel blockers tested (eslicarbazepine, lacosamide, lamotrigine, phenytoin, and rufinamide) were either not efficacious or effective only at doses that were not well‐tolerated in this model. In contrast, compounds targeting either GABA receptors (clobazam, clonazepam, phenobarbital) or GABA‐uptake proteins (tiagabine) produced dose‐dependent efficacy against convulsive seizures. Compounds acting to modulate Ca2+ channels show differential activity: Ethosuximide was not effective, whereas gabapentin was moderately efficacious. Ezogabine and valproate were also highly effective, whereas topiramate and levetiracetam were not effective at the doses tested.

Significance

These results strengthen the conclusion that the lamotrigine‐resistant amygdala kindling model demonstrates pharmacoresistance to certain ASDs, including, but not limited to, sodium channel blockers, and supports the utility of the model for helping to identify compounds with potential efficacy against pharmacoresistant seizures.
Antimicrobial resistance and genetic diversity of Salmonella enterica from eggs
Authors: Xie Tengfei , Wu Gang , He Xujun , Lai Zengzhe , Zhang Huatong , Zhao Jing
Published: August 2019

Salmonella enterica is a common foodborne pathogen responsible for major global health problems such as paratyphoid fever and gastroenteritis. Here, we report the prevalence, antibiotic resistance phenotypes, serotypes, and molecular subtyping of Salmonella isolated from eggs in Guangdong, China. Out of 1,000 egg samples, 54 (5.40%) were positive. S. Enteritidis made up the largest proportion of samples with 11 serotypes. Antimicrobial susceptibility test indicated that most strains were resistant to β‐lactam, aminoglycoside, and tetracycline antibiotics (27.00%–40.00%). There were 37 STs based on MLST typing. MLST and ERIC‐PCR classified 54 isolates into three and five clusters, respectively, which revealed the genetic relatedness and diversity. In conclusion, frequent monitoring of eggs for Salmonella, antibiotic resistance profiles and genetic diversity is essential for improving food safety.
Perceived level of exertion compared to actual grip force exertion: The 50% phenomenon
Authors: Kong Yong‐Ku , Lee Jun‐Hyub , Lee Ju‐Hee , Shin Jae‐Min , Choi Kyeong‐Hee
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate perceived exertions for various levels of actual exertion. A total of 40 healthy adults participated. They repeatedly performed the task of exerting a grip force for 5 s, following the target force on a screen. Then, they were asked to evaluate the intensity of each task based on Borg's CR‐10 scale. The results of this study indicated that participants tend to underestimate their grip‐force exertion at low target‐force levels (10–40% maximum voluntary contraction [MVC]), whereas overestimation was found at high target‐force levels (60–80% MVC). Interestingly, perceived exertion was very accurate at a target‐force level of 50% MVC (the 50% phenomenon). Based on these results, regression equations were derived to estimate the actual exertion of grip force from a perceived exertion. The Borg's CR‐10 scale for grip force was revised based on the regression equations.
The effect of family doctor–contracted services on noncommunicable disease self‐management in Shanghai, China
Authors: Huang Jiaoling , Zhang Tao , Wang Luan , Guo Dongfeng , Liu Shanshan , Lu Wei , Liang Hong , Zhang Yimin , Liu Chengjun
Published: August 2019

Background

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a major threat to population health worldwide. In Shanghai, China, a new pattern of NCD management—self‐management—has been developed in community health service centres (CHSCs).

Objective

To clarify how contracting with CHSC‐based family doctors (FDs) influences the engagement in and effectiveness of self‐management behaviour among NCD patients.

Method

We conducted two waves of a questionnaire survey (in 2013 and 2016) to collect data on patients with NCDs. Separate logistic regression models and longitudinal analysis were performed to examine the effect of contracting with an FD on NCD self‐management and the effectiveness of this self‐management.

Results

Nearly all contracted patients (80.79%) had implemented NCD self‐management, while only 55.57% of non‐contracted patients did so. The self‐management effectiveness rate was also higher among contracted patients than among non‐contracted ones (86.66% vs. 54.79%). In the population‐averaged models, contracted patients had 2.25 and 2.91 times greater odds of implementing self‐management and reporting that the self‐management was effective, respectively, after controlling for all related variables. Additionally, awareness of FD‐contracted services, satisfaction with CHSCs, and experiencing first contact at CHSCs had positive impacts on the implementation and effectiveness of self‐management.

Conclusions

FDs were important for ensuring that NCD patients engaged in self‐management behaviour, the most common form of which was focus group. Participation in NCD focus groups may be key for attaining the effects of self‐management, including improved health knowledge, greater health awareness, more frequent engagement in health behaviour, and, most importantly, greater practice of self‐monitoring. Self‐management might help to achieve greater NCD control.
Retinopathy among Chinese subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Shanghai: A community‐based follow‐up study
Authors: Qin Fei , Jing Limei , Jia Lili , Lou Jieqiong , Feng Yi , Long Wen , Yang Hui , Shi Rong
Published: August 2019

Objective

To determine the incidence, progression, and regression rates of diabetic retinopathy (DR), as well as their associated factors, in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods

Diabetic patients who participated in a previous survey were recruited for a 1‐year follow‐up study. Nonmydriatic fundus photographs were acquired to assess the severity of DR as per the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy Disease Severity Scale (2002). Factors that potentially influence DR outcomes, including its incidence, progression, and regression, were identified via statistical analyses.

Results

We initially recruited 2453 subjects, among whom 2331 were followed and included in the final analysis. The incidences of new and progressed (ie, ≥2 scale steps) DR were 10.6% and 6.1%, respectively. Moreover, 7.3% of patients with established DR at baseline experienced complete regression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that high glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.50, P = .021) and hyperlipidaemia (OR = 1.46, P = .025) were independent predictors of DR development, high HbA1c (OR = 4.16, P = .027) and macroalbuminuria (OR = 5.60, P = .010) predicted DR progression, and low HbA1c (OR = 0.20, P = .001) and low triglyceride levels (OR = 0.34, P = .026) were associated with DR regression.

Conclusions

Albumin and HbA1c levels should be closely monitored as signs of progressive retinal damage in diabetic subjects. Optimized control of glucose and triglyceride levels is vital for reducing the incidence of DR or promoting its regression in afflicted patients.
Maximization of heat transfer density from a vertical array of flat tubes in cross flow under fixed pressure drop using constructal design
Authors: Mustafa Ahmed Waheed , Ghani Ihsan Ali
Published: August 2019

The density of heat transfer rate from a vertical array of flat tubes in cross flow is maximized under fixed pressure drop using constructal design. With the constructal design, the tube arrangement is found such that the heat currents from the tubes to the coolant flow easily. The constraint in the present constructal design is the volume where the tubes are arranged inside it. The two degrees of freedom available inside the volume are the tube‐to‐tube spacing and the length of the flat part of the tubes (tube flatness). The tubes are heated with constant surface temperature. The equations of continuity, momentums, and energy for steady, two‐dimensional, and laminar forced convection are solved by means of a finite‐volume method. The ranges of the present study are Bejan number (dimensionless pressure drop) (103 ≤ Be ≤ 105) and tube flatness (dimensionless length of the tube flat part) (0 ≤ F ≤ 0.8). The coolant used is air with Prandtl number (Pr = 0.72). The results reveal that the maximum heat transfer density decreases when the tube flatness decreases at constant Bejan number. At constant tube flatness, the heat transfer density increases as the dimensionless pressure drop (Bejan number) increases. Also, the optimal tube‐to‐tube spacing is constant, irrespective of the tube flatness at constant Bejan number.
The antibody‐based delivery of interleukin‐12 to solid tumors boosts NK and CD8+ T cell activity and synergizes with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Puca Emanuele , Probst Philipp , Stringhini Marco , Murer Patrizia , Pellegrini Giovanni , Cazzamalli Samuele , Hutmacher Cornelia , Gouyou Baptiste , Wulhfard Sarah , Matasci Mattia , Villa Alessandra , Neri Dario
Published: August 2019

We describe the cloning and characterization of a novel fusion protein (termed L19‐mIL12), consisting of murine interleukin‐12 in single‐chain format, sequentially fused to the L19 antibody in tandem diabody format. The fusion protein bound avidly to the cognate antigen (the alternatively spliced EDB domain of fibronectin), retained the activity of the parental cytokine and was able to selectively localize to murine tumors in vivo, as shown by quantitative biodistribution analysis. L19‐mIL12 exhibited a potent antitumor activity in immunocompetent mice bearing CT26 carcinomas and WEHI‐164 sarcomas, which could be boosted by combination with checkpoint blockade, leading to durable cancer eradication. L19‐mIL12 also inhibited tumor growth in mice with Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC), but in this case, cancer cures could not be obtained, both in monotherapy and in combination. A microscopic analysis and a depletion experiment of tumor‐infiltrating leukocytes illustrated the contribution of NK cells and CD8+ T cells for the anticancer activity observed in both tumor models. Upon L19‐mIL12 treatment, the density of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was strongly increased in LLC, but not in CT26 tumors. A FACS analysis also revealed that the majority of CD8+ T cells in CT26 tumors were specific to the retroviral AH1 antigen.
A new entity in the pathological spectrum of vulvar neoplasms: The first report of a primary endometrioid adenocarcinoma
Authors: Inzani Frediano , Angelico Giuseppe , Santoro Angela , Musarra Teresa , Valente Michele , Spadola Saveria , Garganese Giorgia , Fragomeni Simona , Scambia Giovanni , Zannoni Gian Franco
Published: August 2019

We report the first evidence of primary endometrioid adenocarcinoma arising in the vulva, expanding the morphological spectrum of the glandular neoplasms in this anatomic region.
Biomechanical and Bone Material Properties of Schnurri‐3 Null Mice
Authors: Hofstaetter Jochen G , Misof Barbara M , Jones Dallas C , Zoehrer Ruth , Blouin Stéphane , Schueler Christiane , Paschalis Eleftherios P , Erben Reinhold G , Weinkamer Richard , Klaushofer Klaus , Roschger Paul
Published: August 2019

Schnurri‐3 (Shn3) is an essential regulator of postnatal skeletal remodeling. Shn3‐deficient mice (Shn3–/–) have high bone mass; however, their bone mechanical and material properties have not been investigated to date. We performed three‐point bending of femora, compression tests of L3 vertebrae. We also measured intrinsic material properties, including bone mineralization density distribution (BMDD) and osteocyte lacunae section (OLS) characteristics by quantitative backscatter electron imaging, as well as collagen cross‐linking by Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy of femora from Shn3–/– and WT mice at different ages (6 weeks, 4 months, and 18 months). Moreover, computer modeling was performed for the interpretation of the BMDD outcomes. Femora and L3 vertebrae from Shn3–/– aged 6 weeks revealed increased ultimate force (2.2‐ and 3.2‐fold, p < .01, respectively). Mineralized bone volume at the distal femoral metaphysis was about twofold (at 6 weeks) to eightfold (at 4 and 18 months of age) in Shn3–/– (p < .001). Compared with WT, the average degree of trabecular bone mineralization was similar at 6 weeks, but increased at 4 and 18 months of age (+12.6% and +7.7%, p < .01, respectively) in Shn3–/–. The analysis of OLS characteristics revealed a higher OLS area for Shn3–/– versus WT at all ages (+16%, +23%, +21%, respectively, p < .01). The collagen cross‐link ratio was similar between groups. We conclude that femora and vertebrae from Shn3–/– had higher ultimate force in mechanical testing. Computer modeling demonstrated that in cases of highly increased bone volume, the average degree of bone matrix mineralization can be higher than in WT bone, which was actually measured in the older Shn3–/– groups. The area of 2D osteocyte lacunae sections was also increased in Shn3‐deficiency, which could only partly be explained by larger remnant areas of primary cortical bone. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Atomic Partitioning of the MPn (n= 2, 3, 4) Dynamic Electron Correlation Energy by the Interacting Quantum Atoms Method: A Fast and Accurate Electrostatic Potential Integral Approach
Authors: Vincent Mark A. , Silva Arnaldo F. , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: August 2019

Recently, the quantum topological energy partitioning method called interacting quantum atoms (IQA) has been extended to MPn (n= 2, 3, 4) wave functions. This enables the extraction of chemical insight related to dynamic electron correlation. The large computational expense of the IQA‐MPn approach is compensated by the advantages that IQA offers compared to older nontopological energy decomposition schemes. This expense is problematic in the construction of a machine learning training set to create kriging models for topological atoms. However, the algorithm presented here markedly accelerates the calculation of atomically partitioned electron correlation energies. Then again, the algorithm cannot calculate pairwise interatomic energies because it applies analytical integrals overwholespace (rather than over atomic volumes). However, these pairwise energies are not needed in the quantum topological force field FFLUX, which only uses the energy of an atom interacting with all remaining atoms of the system that it is part of. Thus, it is now feasible to generate accurate and sizeable training sets at MPn level of theory. © 2019 The Authors.Journal of Computational Chemistrypublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.