bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ozone‐Assisted photocatalytic degradation of benzene using nano‐zinc oxide impregnated granular activated carbon (ZnO–GAC) in a continuous fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Jafari Ahmad Jonidi , Arfaeinia Hossein , Badi Mojtaba Yegane , Kalantary Roshanak Rezaei , Kermani Majid
Published: October 2018

Benzene is one of the volatile organic compounds, exposure to which causes different complications including coughs, headache, dizziness, and even cancer. Therefore, methods are required to remove benzene from polluted air. In this study, for the first time, benzene degradation was examined using photocatalytic ozonation process in the presence of nano‐zinc oxide impregnated granular activated carbon (ZnO–GAC) in a continuous fluidized bed reactor. The experiments were performed with the aim of investigating the effect of factors including the ratio of superficial gas velocity to the minimum fluidization velocity (), initial benzene concentration, relative humidity, catalyst dosage, bed temperature, ozone dosage, and intensity of UV lamp in removing benzene from the air. The results of this study indicated that the minimum fluidization velocity (Umf) was obtained as 0.47 L/min, while benzene removal efficiency reached its maximum at = 2.5. Addition of ozone to the ZnO‐UV/GAC process enhanced the process efficiency considerably. With elevation of benzene concentration from 50 to 300 ppm, removal efficiency by UV/ZnO–GAC process declined from 84.14 to 45.12%, while with O3/ZnO–GAC/UV, it decreased from 93.8 to 68.78%. The range of the optimal humidity for benzene removal in both processes was obtained as 30–35%. With elevation of ZnO–GAC dosage from 0 to 10 mg, benzene removal efficiency increased from 42.07 to 70.24 and from 60.9 to 89.57% using UV/ZnO–GAC and O3/ZnO–GAC/UV processes, respectively. Furthermore, the efficiency of O3/ZnO–GAC was directly related to bed temperature, while UV/ZnO–GAC and UV/O3/ZnO–GAC processes were inversely related. Eventually, the removal efficiency of the processes had a direct relation with the ozone dosage and UV intensity. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13082, 2019
A companion to the preclinical common data elements for physiologic data in rodent epilepsy models. A report of the TASK3 Physiology Working Group of the ILAE/AES Joint Translational Task Force
Authors: Gorter Jan A. , van Vliet Erwin A. , Dedeurwaerdere Stefanie , Buchanan Gordon F. , Friedman Daniel , Borges Karin , Grabenstatter Heidi , Lukasiuk Katarzyna , Scharfman Helen E. , Nehlig Astrid
Published: October 2018

The International League Against Epilepsy/American Epilepsy Society (ILAE/AES) Joint Translational Task Force created the TASK3 working groups to create common data elements (CDEs) for various aspects of preclinical epilepsy research studies, which could help improve standardization of experimental designs. This article concerns the parameters that can be measured to assess the physiologic condition of the animals that are used to study rodent models of epilepsy. Here we discuss CDEs for physiologic parameters measured in adult rats and mice such as general health status, temperature, cardiac and respiratory function, and blood constituents. We provide detailed CDE tables and case report forms (CRFs), and with this companion manuscript we discuss the monitoring of different aspects of physiology of the animals. The CDEs, CRFs, and companion paper are available to all researchers, and their use will benefit the harmonization and comparability of translational preclinical epilepsy research. The ultimate hope is to facilitate the development of biomarkers and new treatments for epilepsy.
On the development of a magnetic susceptibility‐based tracer for aeolian sediment transport research
Authors: Ravi Sujith , Gonzales Howell B. , Buynevich Ilya V. , Li Junran , Sankey Joel B. , Dukes David , Wang Guan
Published: October 2018

Aeolian processes – the erosion, transport, and deposition of sediment by wind – play important geomorphological and ecological roles in drylands. These processes are known to impact the spatial patterns of soil, nutrients, plant‐available water, and vegetation in many dryland ecosystems. Tracers, such as rare earth elements and stable isotopes have been successfully used to quantify the transport and redistribution of sediment by aeolian processes in these ecosystems. However, many of the existing tracer techniques are labor‐intensive and cost‐prohibitive, and hence simpler alternative approaches are needed to track aeolian redistribution of sediments. To address this methodological gap, we test the applicability of a novel metal tracer‐based methodology for estimating post‐fire aeolian sediment redistribution, using spatio‐temporal measurements of low‐field magnetic susceptibility (MS). We applied magnetic metal tracers on soil microsites beneath shrub vegetation in recently burned and in control treatments in a heterogeneous landscape in the Chihuahuan desert (New Mexico, USA). Our results indicate a spatially homogeneous distribution of the magnetic tracers on the landscape after post‐burn wind erosion events. MS decreased after wind erosion events on the burned shrub microsites, indicating that these areas functioned as sediment sources following the wildfire, whereas they are known to be sediment sinks in the undisturbed (e.g. not recently burned) ecosystem. This experiment represents the first step toward the development of a cost‐effective and non‐destructive tracer‐based approach to estimate the transport and redistribution of sediment by aeolian processes. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The foliar change from seedlings to adults in Allocasuarina (Casuarinaceae): the evolutionary and ecological aspects of leaf reduction, xeromorphy and scleromorphy
Authors: Dörken Veit M. , Parsons Robert F. , Ladd Philip G.
Published: October 2018

The morpho‐anatomical structure of the adult photosynthetic organs of the Casuarinaceae is unique in plants. We examine the shoot structure of five species from Allocasuarina ‐ the most derived genus in the family. While the cotyledons of seedlings are similar to those of many other plants the subsequent leaves form a whorl of chlorenchymatic tissue fused to the cortex of the articles of segmented branchlets with only the leaf tips free at the apex of each article. Each leaf in the whorl is called a phyllichnium and consists of a vascular trace below the photosynthetic chlorenchyma with sclerenchyma developed within the mesophyll. The branchlets of Allocasuarina are considered xeromorphic as the stomata of most species are restricted to the sides of the furrows formed by the closely appressed edges of the phyllichnia. The scleromorphic foliage of the ancestral Casuarinaceae may have developed from adaptation to nutrient poor soils but was also preadapted to confer drought resistance. The narrow foliage with abundant sclerenchyma, restricted stomatal area and minimal distance from the atmosphere to xylem tissues ensured that the genus could become competitively successful on impoverished soils and be a distinctive component of arid and even mesic woodlands and forests in Australia.
Effects of Talinum triangulare leaf flavonoid extract on streptozotocin‐induced hyperglycemia and associated complications in rats
Authors: Oluba Olarewaju M. , Adebiyi Feyikemi D. , Dada Ajibola A. , Ajayi Adeyinka A. , Adebisi Kayode E. , Josiah Sunday J. , Odutuga Adewale A.
Published: October 2018

Talinum triangulare leaf flavonoid extract (TTFE) was evaluated for its effects on streptozotocin‐hyperglycemia and associated complications especially as it relates to dyslipidemia, lipid peroxidation, and renal dysfunction in rats. Two normoglycemic rat groups designated: control (administered distilled water) and control + TTFE (administered 10 mg/kg b.w. TTFE) and two streptozotocin‐induced (STZ) diabetic rat groups designated: STZ‐control (administered distilled water) and STZ + TTFE (administered 10 mg/kg TTFE). The treatment was given orally once daily for 21 consecutive days. Body weight and insulin concentration showed significant improvement while blood glucose, uric acid, creatinine, and total bilirubin concentrations were significantly reduced in diabetic rats administered TTFE compared to diabetic untreated rats. Furthermore, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, and malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly lowered in diabetic rats administered TTFE compared with diabetic untreated rats. Key enzymes involved in carbohydrate breakdown and cholesterol synthesis, α‐amylase and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA (HMG‐CoA) reductase, respectively, were significantly inhibited in TTFE‐treated diabetic rats compared to diabetic control. Results presented in this study suggest that administration of TTFE for 21 days normalized STZ‐induced hyperglycemia and its associated dyslipidemia by a mechanism involving inhibition of α‐amylase and HMG‐CoA reductase activities, respectively, in rats.
Drying alters the phenolic constituents, antioxidant properties, α‐amylase, and α‐glucosidase inhibitory properties of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf
Authors: Ademiluyi Adedayo O. , Aladeselu Olubukola H. , Oboh Ganiyu , Boligon Aline A.
Published: October 2018

Moringa oleifera leaf is a popular green leafy vegetable which has found its usefulness in the preparation of traditional stews and soups. Like most green leafy vegetable which are not around year‐round, the leaf is usually dried and pulverized for storage and easier handling, and despite the popularity of this processing technique, there is dearth of information on how drying affects the health‐promoting properties of the leaves. Hence, this study sought to investigate the effect of some drying methods (freeze‐drying, sun, air and oven drying) on the phytoconstituents, antioxidant properties, and biological activities of moringa leaf. This study revealed that drying methods significantly altered the phytoconstituents (phenolics, flavonoids, vitamin C, tannin, saponin, phytate, oxalate, alkaloid, cardenolides, and cardiac glycosides), antioxidant capacities (reducing power, Fe2+chelating, ABTS•+, DPPH, and •OH scavenging abilities), and enzyme inhibitory (α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase) effects of the leaf, with freeze‐drying being the most promising method for preserving the nutraceutical properties of moringa leaf. However, for practical application, the order of preference of the drying methods which ensures adequate retention of phytoconstituents and possibly biological activities of the leaf as observed in this study is freeze‐drying > air drying > sun drying > oven drying, in the order of decreasing magnitude.
Evaluation of secondary metabolites, antioxidant activity, and color parameters of Nepali wines
Authors: Pandeya Ankit , Rayamajhi Sagar , Pokhrel Pravin , Giri Basant
Published: October 2018

We evaluated the quality of wines produced in Nepal in terms of phenolic, flavonoid, anthocyanin and tannin content, antioxidant capacity, and color parameters using spectrophotometric methods. The total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and total antioxidant activities in Nepali wines ranged from 85.5 to 960.0 (mean = 360.5 ± 268.7) mg/L GAE, 40.9–551.3 (mean = 188.9 ± 161.5) mg/L QE, and 66.6–905.0 (mean = 332.8 ± 296.5) mg/L AAE, respectively. These parameters were significantly higher in red wines compared to white wines. The phenolic and flavonoid content showed strong correlation with each other as well as with antioxidant activities. Additional parameters measured included various color parameters and carbohydrates. The wine color showed strong correlation with phenol, flavonoid, and antioxidant activity, whereas this correlation was not significant with anthocyanin content. Multivariate analysis was carried out to better describe and discriminate the wine samples. Finally, we compared Nepali wines with wines from other countries.
Egg white hydrolysate improves fatigue due to short‐term swimming load test in mice
Authors: Matsuoka Ryosuke , Kimura Mamoru , Uno Shinya , Shidara Hiroyuki , Kunou Masaaki
Published: October 2018

We studied the effect of egg white hydrolysate (EWH) on swimming endurance in mice. 7‐week‐old male ddY mice (28–30 g) were divided into three groups and fed an AIN‐93G diet supplemented with casein (n = 8), EWH (n = 7), or egg white protein (EWP, n = 8) for 14 days. From day 11, the mice underwent a swimming test daily with a weight load equivalent to 10% of their body weight, and the lengths of time they swam were recorded. Blood was sampled for testing on the last day of the study. We observed that increases in the swimming duration through day 14 were significantly greater in the EWH group than in the casein group (p = 0.049). As a factor underlying this, the hexanoyl‐lysine level in blood was confirmed to be decreased in the former group (p = 0.013). These findings indicate that consumption of EWH extended the swimming duration and suggest the mechanistic involvement of an antifatigue effect mediated by its antioxidant activity.
Physicochemical properties of malted finger millet (Eleusine coracana) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Owheruo Joseph O. , Ifesan Beatrice O. T. , Kolawole Ayodele O.
Published: October 2018

Germinated and raw finger millet (Eleusine coracana) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) were investigated for their physicochemical (pH, total titratable acidity (TTA), proximate, mineral analysis), phytochemical, and antioxidant properties. The results showed that there were decreases in pH (8.50–7.60) with a corresponding increase in TTA (0.0038–0.18 g/L) during germination of the millets. Proximate composition of the millets revealed slight increases in protein (7.61%–7.81%; 10.57%–11.87%) and crude fiber (5.54%–8.81%; 1.07%–2.55%) with reductions in fat (3.84%–2.73%; 7.69%–2.30%) after germination for finger and pearl millet, respectively. The millets were found to be rich sources of minerals, which include magnesium (1,028.42–1,763.50 ppm), calcium (36.42–4,158.40 ppm), sodium (150.00–510.00 ppm), potassium (470.00–4,500 ppm), zinc (20.00–40.00 ppm), and iron (66.00–121.00 ppm) which either decreased or increased with germination. The results of the phytochemical composition revealed that during germination, alkaloid (36.03–74.53 mg/g) and saponin (4.46–31.91 mg/g) contents were found to increase while there were reductions in tannin (0.88–1.64 mg/g) and phytate (7.00–17.72 mg/g) content of the flour. For finger millet, DPPH ranged from 70.00% to 72.14% and pearl millet (49.95%–64.01%), while for FRAP, pearl millet (53.69–53.76 mg/g) demonstrated better activity compared to finger millet (46.91–53.54 mg/g). Findings from this work may suggest that further studies should be carried out on germinated finger and pearl millets to examine their abilities to serve as functional foods.
Array‐based CGH of primary cutaneous CD8+ aggressive EPIDERMO‐tropic cytotoxic T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Fanoni Daniele , Corti Laura , Alberti‐Violetti Silvia , Tensen Cornelis P. , Venegoni Luigia , Vermeer Maarten , Willemze Rein , Berti Emilio
Published: October 2018

Primary cutaneous CD8+ aggressive epidermotropic cytotoxic T‐cell lymphoma (pcAECyTCL) is a rare provisionally categorized cutaneous lymphoma characterized by an aggressive course. Its pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms are still unknown, and only two individual cases have so far been molecularly characterized. The aim of this study was to define the pattern of numerical chromosomal alterations in tumor samples taken from 20 patients with pcAECyTCL at the time of diagnosis by means of array‐comparative genomic hybridization (a‐CGH). a‐CGH detected numerous genomic aberrations in all the patients and, putting these together as a whole, they affected all the chromosomes. However, no specific profile of recurrent copy number alterations (CNAs) was found. Most of the gains involved regions previously described in other aggressive cutaneous lymphomas such as 7q, 8q24.3, and 17q, whereas the most significant CNA was the loss of 9p21.3 (CDKN2A–CDKN2B), which has already been found in a variety of malignant tumors and is associated with aggressive cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas. In brief, CGH analysis revealed a large number of CNAs with only few recurring regions that probably do not represent driving events. The genomic instability found in this aggressive variant of cutaneous lymphoma may therefore be a secondary event but, at the time of the diagnosis of pcAECyTCL, the genomic integrity of tumor cells is already compromised.
Polycomb repression regulates Schwann cell proliferation and axon regeneration after nerve injury
Authors: Ma Ki H. , Duong Phu , Moran John J. , Junaidi Nabil , Svaren John
Published: October 2018

The transition of differentiated Schwann cells to support of nerve repair after injury is accompanied by remodeling of the Schwann cell epigenome. The EED‐containing polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) catalyzes histone H3K27 methylation and represses key nerve repair genes such asShh,Gdnf, andBdnf, and their activation is accompanied by loss of H3K27 methylation. Analysis of nerve injury in mice with a Schwann cell‐specific loss of EED showed the reversal of polycomb repression is required and a rate limiting step in the increased transcription ofNeuregulin 1(type I), which is required for efficient remyelination. However, mouse nerves with EED‐deficient Schwann cells display slow axonal regeneration with significantly low expression of axon guidance genes, includingSema4fandCntf.Finally, EED loss causes impaired Schwann cell proliferation after injury with significant induction of theCdkn2acell cycle inhibitor gene. Interestingly, PRC2 subunits andCDKN2Aare commonly co‐mutated in the transition from benign neurofibromas to malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST's). RNA‐seq analysis of EED‐deficient mice identified PRC2‐regulated molecular pathways that may contribute to the transition to malignancy in neurofibromatosis.
Overexpression of P2X4 receptor in Schwann cells promotes motor and sensory functional recovery and remyelination via BDNF secretion after nerve injury
Authors: Su Wen‐Feng , Wu Fan , Jin Zi‐Han , Gu Yun , Chen Ying‐Ting , Fei Ying , Chen Hui , Wang Ya‐Xian , Xing Ling‐Yan , Zhao Ya‐Yu , Yuan Ying , Tang Xin , Chen Gang
Published: October 2018

Of the seven P2X receptor subtypes, P2X4 receptor (P2X4R) is widely distributed in the central nervous system, including in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia. Accumulating evidence supports roles for P2X4R in the central nervous system, including regulating cell excitability, synaptic transmission, and neuropathic pain. However, little information is available about the distribution and function of P2X4R in the peripheral nervous system. In this study, we find that P2X4R is mainly localized in the lysosomes of Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system. In cultured Schwann cells, TNF‐a not only enhances the synthesis of P2X4R protein but also promotes P2X4R trafficking to the surface of Schwann cells. TNF‐a‐induced BDNF secretion in Schwann cells is P2X4R dependent. in vivo experiments reveal that expression of P2X4R in Schwann cells of injured nerves is strikingly upregulated following nerve crush injury. Moreover, overexpression of P2X4R in Schwann cells by genetic manipulation promotes motor and sensory functional recovery and accelerates nerve remyelination via BDNF release following nerve injury. Our results suggest that enhancement of P2X4R expression in Schwann cells after nerve injury may be an effective approach to facilitate the regrowth and remyelination of injured nerves.
Illness perceptions as predictors of psychological distress among head and neck cancer survivors: a longitudinal study
Authors: Zhang Na , Fielding Richard , Soong Inda , Chan Karen KK , Lee Conrad , Ng Alice , Sze Wing Kin , Tsang Janice , Lee Victor , Lam Wendy Wing Tak
Published: October 2018

Background

Leventhal's commonsense model implies illness perceptions influence illness outcomes. This study examined illness perceptions among head and neck cancer survivors, and whether these predicted subsequent psychological distress.

Methods

A total of 124 survivors of head and neck cancer (87% nasopharyngeal carcinoma; NPC) completed measures of psychological distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; HADS), illness perceptions (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire; B‐IPQ), dispositional optimism (revised Chinese version of the Life Orientation Test; C‐LOT‐R), and clinical and demographic data approximately12.9 months after diagnosis (T1). Six months later (T2) psychological distress (HADS) was again measured. Adjusted multivariate analyses tested whether illness perceptions predicted T2 HADS scores.

Results

Illness perception dimensions were significantly intercorrelated (0.01‐0.68), explaining 8.0% of anxiety and 4.8% of depression symptom variability at T2. After adjustment for T1 distress, illness identity (β = 0.270, P < .01) and sex identification as a woman (β = 0.275, P < .01) predicted T2 anxiety symptoms while illness identity (β = 0.195, P < .05), unemployment (β = 0.195, P < .05), and pessimism (β = –0.227, P < .01) predicted T2 depression symptoms.

Conclusion

Perceived illness identity predicted psychological distress, accounting for modest levels of distress variance. Unresolved symptoms may exacerbate distress.
The practice of experimental studies in psychopharmacology: Top 10 tips from one centre's experience
Authors: Mazibuko Ndaba , Mehta Mitul A.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Recent efforts to optimise translation of basic research findings to successful clinical trials have led to a sharper focus on experimental medicine translational studies. This is coupled with a movement towards greater methodological integrity and openness. Although this can be achieved through preregistration and detailed reporting of study methodology, the reality of study application can often be lost.

Methods

In practice, challenges in study application can often lead to diminished scientific robustness, even in well‐designed studies. A detailed description of experiences is essential for learning and subsequent improvement. To this end, the authors undertook a description of the experience of a specialised psychopharmacology experimental study centre.

Results

This centre's experiences reveal that even supposedly routine study elements, such as screening parameters, peri‐drug administration, and peri‐discharge procedures, can pose significant practical obstacles to the achievement of minimal protocol deviation.

Ultimately, these factors impact on academic standards such as enhanced data reliability; but they have additional implications for participant clinical safety and well‐being, for instance in relation to adverse event and incidental finding recording.

Conclusions

The facilitation of a scientific culture that is more transparent even at the operational level will hopefully augment translational process and probability of success.
Real‐life effectiveness of MP‐AzeFlu in Irish patients with persistent allergic rhinitis, assessed by visual analogue scale and endoscopy
Authors: Kaulsay Ranbir , Nguyen Duc Tung , Kuhl Hans Christian
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Most allergic rhinitis (AR) patients have moderate‐to‐severe, persistent disease. Meda Pharma's AzeFlu (MP‐AzeFlu) combines intranasal azelastine hydrochloride (AZE) and fluticasone propionate (FP) in a novel formulation in a single device to treat AR. This prospective, noninterventional study sought to assess the effectiveness of MP‐AzeFlu (one spray/nostril twice daily; 548 µg AZE/200 µg FP daily dose) in relieving AR symptom severity.

Methods

A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used prior to MP‐AzeFlu treatment on days 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 by 53 persistent AR (PER) patients seen in routine clinical practice in Ireland. An endoscopy was performed on days 0 and 28, and symptoms of edema, discharge, and redness were scored on a three‐point scale (for both nostrils).

Results

Patients using MP‐AzeFlu experienced rapid VAS score reduction from 73.4 mm (standard deviation [SD], 20.3) at Day 0 to 31.5 mm (SD, 25.0) at day 28 (P < 0.0001) to 28.1 mm (SD, 24.1) at day 42 (P < 0.0001), a 45.3‐mm reduction. On average, patients achieved a clinically relevant VAS score cutoff of 50 mm before Day 7. Total endoscopy score decreased from 7.5 mm (SD, 3.1) at baseline to 3.5 mm (SD, 2.5) at Day 28. The incidence of severe edema on endoscopy decreased from 53.1% at baseline to 3.8% at Day 28. A similar reduction in the incidence of thick/mucousy discharge (from 28.3% to 4.8%) and severe redness (from 34.9% to 0%) was also observed.

Conclusions

MP‐AzeFlu provided effective, rapid control of PER as assessed by VAS in a real‐world clinical setting in Ireland. Symptom improvement was observed at Day 1, sustained for 42 days, and associated with improved mucosal appearance after 28 days. These results confirm the safety of MP‐AzeFlu and exceed the efficacy demonstrated in phase 3 clinical studies for controlling AR in PER patients.
Essential surgical skills for a gynecologic oncologist
Authors: Arora Vivek , Somashekhar S.P.
Published: October 2018

Gynecologic oncology has seen a tremendous growth as a surgical specialty over the past four decades. However, many regions of the world still lack structured training programs in this discipline. The aim of this article is to identify the essential skills for a gynecologic oncologist to be able to provide optimal care to women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Where the evidence exists in the literature we identify the learning curve necessary. Identifying essential skills required for the practice of gynecologic oncology should assist in standardizing care provision globally, and could be a starting point for health systems beginning structured training programs. Development of surgical skills requires adequate training, mentorship, and self‐evaluation as an ongoing process beyond the years spent in training programs.
A comparative analysis of symmetric diketopyrrolopyrrole‐cored small conjugated molecules with aromatic flanks: From geometry to charge transport
Authors: Raychev Deyan , Seifert Gotthard , Sommer Jens‐Uwe , Guskova Olga
Published: October 2018

Diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) derivatives are promising compounds for application in organic electronics. Here, we investigate several symmetrical N‐unsubstituted and N‐methyl substituted DPPs which differ in the heteroatom in the aromatic flanks. The conformational, electronic, and optical properties are characterized for single molecules in vacuum or a solvent. The intermolecular interactions are evaluated for interacting dimers. Here, a number of stacking geometries is tested, and dimers with mutual orientation of the molecules corresponding to the minimal binding energies are determined. The predicted charge carrier mobilities for stacks having minimal binding energies corroborate experimentally measured values. We conclude that DFT prediction of such stacks is a promising and computationally inexpensive approach to a rough estimation of transport properties. Additionally, the super‐cell of the experimentally resolved crystal structure is used to study the dynamics and to compute the charge transport along the hopping pathways. We discuss obtained high mobilities and relate them to the symmetry of DPP core. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
No rapport, no comment: The relationship between rapport and communication during investigative interviews with suspects
Authors: Collins Kimberly , Carthy Nikki
Published: October 2018

There are few studies that have focused on systematically measuring indicators of rapport during police investigative interviews. Using Tickle‐Degnen and Rosenthal's model as the basis for a systematic measurement of rapport, this study examined police interviews to identify whether rapport with suspects influences investigation relevant information (IRI). Eighty‐two interview transcripts with male suspects accused of child internet sex offences were coded across three rapport components: attention, positivity, and coordination. Attention and coordination were the most frequently used, and both positively correlated with the production of information. Positivity did not significantly correlate with IRI. The interviews were broken down into three different stages to examine the relationship between the rapport indicators and IRI across the interviews. Attention related to IRI throughout the entire interview, coordination during the middle and end, and positivity did not relate to IRI for any of the time points. This study offers a methodology for measuring rapport during real life interviews, and implications for interviewing and training are discussed.
Targeted proteomics of hip articular cartilage in OA and fracture patients
Authors: Hosseininia Shahrzad , Önnerfjord Patrik , Dahlberg Leif E.
Published: October 2018

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic disease, causing joint pain and reduced physical function. OA progresses slowly over a period of several years; to avoid an exacerbation of symptoms, it is critical to able to diagnose the disease as early as possible. The identification of disease‐specific biomarkers may enable such an early diagnosis. The aim of this study was to investigate potential biomarkers of cartilage metabolism in OA using a targeted multiplex approach by single reaction monitoring. Intact looking cartilage of femoral heads from patients with OA (n = 9) or femoral neck fractures (n = 12) was examined. Variations and relative quantifications of 35 selected extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins were analyzed using nano‐LC coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Our study showed statistically significantly increased levels of asporin (ASPN), mimecan (MIME), matrilin‐3 (MATN3), cartilage intermediate layer protein 2 (CILP‐2), collagen VI, collagen II, and collagen III N‐propeptide in OA cartilage compared with non‐OA cartilage. The other proteins in the protein panel did not appear to be different between the two groups. In conclusion, we identified a number of cartilage matrix proteins which may represent early molecular changes in the OA process and may have potential to predict the development of OA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Interpolation theorem for Marcinkiewicz spaces with applications to Lorentz gamma spaces
Authors: Musil Vít , Oľhava Rastislav
Published: October 2018

This paper is devoted to the interpolation principle between spaces of weak type. We characterise interpolation spaces between two Marcinkiewicz spaces in terms of Hardy type operators involving suprema. We study general properties of such operators and their behavior on Lorentz gamma spaces. A particular emphasis is placed on elementary and comprehensive proofs.
SPG11‐related parkinsonism: Clinical profile, molecular imaging and l‐dopa response
Authors: Faber Ingrid , Martinez Alberto Rolim Muro , Martins Carlos Roberto , Maia Maidane Luise , Souza Juliana Pasquotto , Lourenço Charles Marques , Marques Wilson , Montecchiani Celeste , Orlacchio Antonio , Pedroso Jose Luiz , Barsottini Orlando Graziani Povoas , Ramos Celso Darío , Lopes‐Cendes Íscia , Friedman Joseph H. , Amorim Bárbara Juarez , França Marcondes Cavalcante
Published: October 2018

Background: Molecular imaging has proven to be a powerful tool to elucidate degenerated paths in a wide variety of neurological diseases and has not been systematically studied in hereditary spastic paraplegias.

Objectives: To investigate dopaminergic degeneration in a cohort of 22 patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia attributed to SPG11 mutations and evaluate treatment response to l‐dopa.

Methods: Patients and controls underwent single‐photon emission computed tomography imaging utilizing 99mTc‐TRODAT‐1 tracer. A single‐blind trial with 600 mg of l‐dopa was performed comparing UPDRS scores.

Results: Reduced dopamine transporter density was universal among patients. Nigral degeneration was symmetrical and correlated with disease duration and motor and cognitive handicap. No statistically significant benefit could be demonstrated with l‐dopa intake during the trial.

Conclusion: Disruption of presynaptic dopaminergic pathways is a widespread phenomenon in patients with SPG11 mutations, even in the absence of parkinsonism. Unresponsiveness to treatment could be related to postsynaptic damage that needs to be further investigated.
Recent structural advances in constrained helical peptides
Authors: Skowron Kornelia J. , Speltz Thomas E. , Moore Terry W.
Published: October 2018

Given the ubiquity of the ⍺‐helix in the proteome, there has been much research in developing mimics of ⍺‐helices, and most of this study has been toward developing protein‐protein interaction inhibitors. A common strategy for mimicking ⍺‐helices has been through the use of constrained, helical peptides. The addition of a constraint typically provides for conformational and proteolytic stability and, in some cases, cell permeability. Some of the most well‐known strategies included are lactam formation and hydrocarbon “stapling.” Beyond those strategies, there have been many recent advances in developing constrained peptides. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances in the development of new helix‐stabilizing technologies, constraint diversification strategies, tether diversification strategies, and combination strategies that create new bicyclic helical peptides.
Flexible terahertz and FarIR polymer‐supported filter
Authors: Sanphuang Varittha , Nahar Niru K.
Published: October 2018

We present the design, fabrication, and measurement of a terahertz (THz) polymer‐supported filter. A periodic structure, frequency selective surfaces (FSS) is employed to provide bandpass characteristic for this filter design with polyimide (PI) film as a substrate. This PI film (13 μm thick) is very thin and thus provides a flexible support to the filter. The average extracted dielectric constant
ε
r is 3.35 and the average refractive index
n
s is 1.84. The final filter structure was fabricated using standard microfabrication process. The measured transmission response shows high percentage of transmission (~80%) with the peak at 0.58 THz and sharp roll‐off that covers the broad range of frequency from 0.1 to 1 THz (wavelength of 300 μm‐3000 μm).
An ultra‐small cavity‐backed sector antenna with fractal transmission lines and NRI‐TLs for VHF application
Authors: Cao Wei‐ping , Sun Chengjie , Li Jinxin , Li Simin , Lin Yiyu
Published: October 2018

A novel ultra‐small cavity‐backed sector antenna with fractal transmission lines (FTLs) and negative refractive index transmission lines (NRI‐TLs) is proposed in this paper. The proposed antenna comprises three parts. The first one is a U‐shaped cavity‐backed antenna composed of a planar double‐sector patch and a U‐shaped backed‐cavity. The other two parts are FTLs and NRI‐TLs, respectively, both of which are used to achieve bandwidth enhancement and size reduction for the U‐shaped cavity‐backed antenna. Although the U‐shaped cavity‐backed antenna and the proposed antenna have the same size of 36 cm × 40 cm × 25 cm, the proposed antenna can operate in a lower frequency band. Due to the introduction of the negative refractive index transmission lines, the overall size reduction is up to 12.3%. With features such as ultra‐small size, moderate bandwidth and good radiation property, the proposed antenna can meet the demanding requirements to the application of UAV airborne system.
Wide scanning angle LWA based on DIL with H‐shaped grooves
Authors: Wei Du‐Juan , Li Jian‐Ying , Liu Jie , Xu Rui , Yang Guang‐Wei
Published: October 2018

A dielectric image line (DIL)‐based leaky wave antenna (LWA) with H‐shaped grooves is proposed in this paper. By periodically carving a set of H‐shaped grooves in the ground of the DIL, infinite space harmonics are excited, and the proposed antenna works with n = −1 order mode. The H‐shaped radiator can effectively eliminate open stopband (OSB). Over the operating band from 11.1 GHz to 15 GHz, the beam of the proposed antenna scans widely from −72° to 31° (including the broadside) with the realized gain from 9.7 dBi to 12.9 dBi. A prototype is fabricated and measured, which testifies the design theory and the simulation results.
Development of an attenuation correction method for direct x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging utilizing gold L‐shell XRF photons
Authors: Ahmed Md Foiez , Yasar Selcuk , Cho Sang Hyun
Published: October 2018

Purpose

This work proposes a semiempirical correction method for attenuation of x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) photons and/or an excitation beam during direct XRF imaging (i.e., mapping) of gold nanoparticle (GNP) distribution utilizing gold L‐shell XRF photons.

Methods

The current method was first devised by finding the two following relationships: (a) ratio of gold XRF peak intensity (Lα at ~9.7 keV and Lβ at ~11.4 keV) vs pathlength of XRF photons; (b) XRF photon counts produced (Nxrf) vs scattered photon counts produced (Nscat). Monte Carlo simulations were performed using the Geant4 tool kit to characterize the aforementioned relationships for different tissue‐like media. The applicability of the method was tested experimentally by acquiring 2D L‐shell XRF images of custom‐made phantoms using an experimental benchtop x‐ray fluorescence computed tomography setup.

Results

The results show that the ratio of gold L‐shell XRF peak intensities allowed an estimation of the pathlength of XRF photons, thus can be utilized to correct for attenuation of XRF photons after emission. The results also demonstrate that Nscat, through a proportionality where the exponent T depends on the energy of scattered photons, could be used to correct for attenuation of an excitation beam prior to producing XRF photons. The corrected XRF signal was found independent of the densities of tissue‐like media present along the passage of an excitation beam or emitted XRF photons.

Conclusions

The current results suggest that the developed attenuation correction method plays an essential role for the detection of GNPs on the order of parts‐per‐million, and also for the determination of GNP concentration/location within the imaging object made of tissue‐like media, without any prior knowledge of the imaging object shape, under the conditions deemed relevant to biomedical applications of gold L‐shell XRF‐based imaging.
Quantitative Gd‐DOTA‐based aerosol deposition mapping in the lungs of asthmatic rats using 3D UTE‐MRI
Authors: Wang Hongchen , Sebrié Catherine , Judé Sébastien , Maurin Anne , Rétif Stéphanie , Le Mée Marilyne , Julea Felicia , Dubuisson Rose‐Marie , Willoquet Georges , Bouazizi Khaoula , Darrasse Luc , Guillot Geneviève , Maître Xavier , de Rochefort Ludovic
Published: October 2018

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, commonly treated with inhaled therapy. Better understanding of the mechanisms of aerosol deposition is required to improve inhaled drug delivery. Three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time (UTE) MRI acquisitions at 1.5 T were combined with spontaneous nose‐only inhalation of aerosolized gadolinium (Gd) to map the aerosol deposition and to characterize signal enhancement in asthmatic rat lungs. The rats were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) to develop asthmatic models and challenged before imaging by nebulization of OVA to trigger asthmatic symptoms. The negative controls were not sensitized or challenged by nebulization of saline. The animal lungs were imaged before and after administration of Gd‐based aerosol in freely breathing rats, by using a T1‐weighted 3D UTE sequence. A contrast‐enhanced quantitative analysis was performed to assess regional concentration. OVA‐sensitized rats had lower signal enhancement and lower deposited aerosol concentration. Their enhancement dynamics showed large inter‐subject variability. The signal intensity was homogeneously enhanced for controls while OVA‐sensitized rats showed heterogeneous enhancement. Contrast‐enhanced 3D UTE was applied with aerosolized Gd to efficiently measure spatially resolved deposition in asthmatic lungs. The small administered dose (around 1 μmol/kg body weight) and the use of standard clinical MRI suggest a potential application for the exploration of asthma.
Molecular alterations associated with metastases of solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas
Authors: Amato Eliana , Mafficini Andrea , Hirabayashi Kenichi , Lawlor Rita T , Fassan Matteo , Vicentini Caterina , Barbi Stefano , Delfino Pietro , Sikora Katarzyna , Rusev Borislav , Simbolo Michele , Esposito Irene , Antonello Davide , Pea Antonio , Sereni Elisabetta , Ballotta Maria , Maggino Laura , Marchegiani Giovanni , Ohike Nobuyuki , Wood Laura D , Salvia Roberto , Klöppel Günter , Zamboni Giuseppe , Scarpa Aldo , Corbo Vincenzo
Published: October 2018

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN) of the pancreas are rare, low‐grade malignant neoplasms that metastasise to the liver or peritoneum in 10–15% of cases. They almost invariably present somatic activating mutations of CTNNB1. No comprehensive molecular characterisation of metastatic disease has been conducted to date. We performed whole‐exome sequencing and copy‐number variation (CNV) analysis of 10 primary SPN and comparative sequencing of five matched primary/metastatic tumour specimens by high‐coverage targeted sequencing of 409 genes. In addition to CTNNB1‐activating mutations, we found inactivating mutations of epigenetic regulators (KDM6A, TET1, BAP1) associated with metastatic disease. Most of these alterations were shared between primary and metastatic lesions, suggesting that they occurred before dissemination. Differently from mutations, the majority of CNVs were not shared among lesions from the same patients and affected genes involved in metabolic and pro‐proliferative pathways. Immunostaining of 27 SPNs showed that loss or reduction of KDM6A and BAP1 expression was significantly enriched in metastatic SPNs. Consistent with an increased transcriptional response to hypoxia in pancreatic adenocarcinomas bearing KDM6A inactivation, we showed that mutation or reduced KDM6A expression in SPNs is associated with increased expression of the HIF1α‐regulated protein GLUT1 at both primary and metastatic sites. Our results suggest that BAP1 and KDM6A function is a barrier to the development of metastasis in a subset of SPNs, which might open novel avenues for the treatment of this disease. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Ab Initio Modeling of Y and O Solute Atom Interaction in Small Clusters within the bcc Iron Lattice
Authors: Mastrikov Yuri A. , Sokolov Maksim N. , Kotomin Eugene A. , Gopejenko Aleksejs , Zhukovskii Yuri F.
Published: October 2018

Small yttrium and oxygen complexes in the body‐centred cubic (bcc) iron matrix are modeled by performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The interaction between Y and O in isolated molecule, rock‐salt crystal is compared with that in Y/O, Y/2O, 2Y/O clusters within the bcc iron matrix. Interaction energies and electron charge redistribution are also analyzed. Among the clusters, the most stable ones are analyzed further. It is shown that chemical bonding in YO molecule and crystal is significantly stronger than in the host matrix and the main interaction in the matrix occurs with nearby Fe atoms.
Asymmetry and Parity Violation in Magnetoresistance of Magnetic Diluted Dirac–Weyl Semimetal (Cd0.6Zn0.36Mn0.04)3As2
Authors: Ivanov Oleg , Zakhvalinskii Vasilii , Nikulicheva Tatiana , Yaprintsev Maxim , Ivanichikhin Sergei
Published: October 2018

Orientation dependences of magnetoresistance, ρ, of single crystal (Cd0.6Zn0.36Mn0.04)3As2 having tetragonal P42/nmc symmetry have been studied. Three orientations between electrical current, , flowing along crystal (100) plane and magnetic field, , have been used as follows: 1) is perpendicular to both and (100) plane; 2) is perpendicular to but parallel to (100) plane; 3) is parallel to both and (100) plane. Asymmetry in curves ρ is observed for all orientations. For orientation (2), crossover from negative to positive magnetoresistance is found as magnetic field changes its direction from one position corresponding to negative to opposite direction corresponding to positive . So magnetoresistance parity typical for numerous solids is violated for this orientation. The Shubnikov–de Haas (SdH) oscillations are observed for all orientations above ≈1.8 T and below ≈40 K. The effective mass of electrons extracted from SdH oscillations analysis is found to be orientation dependent. Smeared kinks correlated with the SdH oscillations are also observed in the Hall effect study for orientation (1). Magnetoresistance peculiarities can be related to specific properties of the Dirac semimetals and their evolution under magnetic field.
Withaferin A, a novel compound of Indian ginseng (Withania somnifera), ameliorates Cerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis: Possible role of oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Tiruveedi Vijaya Lakshmi , Bale Swarna , Khurana Amit , Godugu Chandraiah
Published: October 2018

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas that may precipitate due to various reasons such as chronic alcoholism, gall stone obstruction, and life style. Current treatment options offer limited efficacy, as they provide only symptomatic relief. This study is an attempt to study the effects of Withaferin A (WFA) against Cerulein‐induced acute pancreatitis in mice. Animals were pretreated with WFA via intraperitoneal route, for 7 days. Plasma amylase and lipase, tissue malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione were evaluated for all groups. Western blot analysis; haematoxylin and eosin staining of the liver, lung, and pancreas; immunohistochemistry for nitrotyrosine; and myeloperoxidase activity were performed. Haematoxylin and eosin stained sections significantly revealed the altered architecture and thereby damage in the pancreas, lungs, and liver that has been low in treatment groups. Increased myeloperoxidase and nitrotyrosine have also been reduced upon treatment with WFA. Increased levels of MDA, NO, and expression of myeloperoxidase and nitrotyrosine in the parameters estimated add evidence to the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in acute pancreatitis. WFA evidently altered these conditions upon pretreatment. Our study shows that this novel steroidal compound has potent anti‐inflammatory property. Natural compounds can therefore be good remedies against many diseases if incorporated in routine diet as dietary supplement.
Autosomal dominant intellectual disability
Authors: Wieczorek Dagmar
Published: October 2018

Intellectual disability (ID) is a heterogeneous entity defined as a substantial impairment of cognitive and adaptive function with an onset in early childhood and an IQ measure of less than 70. During the last few years, the next generation technologies, namely whole exome (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS), have given rise to the identification of many new genes for autosomal dominant (ADID), autosomal recessive (ARID) and X‑linked forms of ID (XLID). The prevalence of ID is 1.5–2% for milder forms (IQ < 70) and 0.3–0.5% for more severe forms of ID (IQ < 50). Up to now, about 650 genes for ADID have been reported and it is expected that there are at least 350 genes still unidentified. Although the ADID genes can easily be classified according to the associated clinical findings, e. g. different kind of seizures, abnormal body measurements, an advanced selection of reasonable genes for analyses is challenging. Many different panels for ID genes have been developed for a first diagnostic step, but more meaningful is the use of trio exome sequencing in individuals with sporadic ID. Using trio WES the mutation detection rate for de novo mutations in ID varies from 20 to 60%.

Further research is needed for the identification of the remaining ID genes, a deeply understanding of the pathways and the development of therapies for the mostly rare causes of ID.