bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seedless synthesis and efficient recyclable catalytic activity of Ag@Fe nanocomposites towards methyl orange
Authors: Alzahrani Salma Ahmed , Malik Maqsood Ahmad , Al-Thabaiti Shaeel Ahmed , Khan Zaheer
Published: March 2018

This work demonstrates a competitive reduction method of synthesis of nanomaterials. In this method along cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), the reduction of Ag+ and Fe3+ ions is achieved by ascorbic acid-to-bimetallic Ag@Fe yellow-colored nanomaterials. The shape of UV–visible spectra and wavelengths absorbed of Ag@Fe can be tuned from ca. 290–600 nm by controlling [CTAB] and [Ag+]. The apparent first-order rate constants were calculated within the approximation of 6.1 × 10−3 s−1. The as-prepared Ag@Fe NPs have been found to be very important catalyst in terms of depredate methyl orange in vicinity of sodium borohydride (NaBH4), which exhibits excellent efficiency and re-usability in the prototypical reaction. The cmc of cationic surfactant CTAB has been determined by conductivity method under different experimental conditions. In the presence of CTAB, Ag+ and Fe3+ ions reduce to Ag@Fe core/shell nanoparticles, comprehend a change in wavelength and intensity of SRP band. The apparent first-order rate constant, activation energy, and turnover frequency for the methyl orange reduction catalyzed by Ag@Fe NPs were found to be 1.6 × 10−3 s−1, 58.2 kJ mol−1, and 1.1 × 10−3 s−1, respectively.
IL-23-induced macrophage polarization and its pathological roles in mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis
Authors: Hou Yuzhu , Zhu Linnan , Tian Hongling , Sun Hai-Xi , Wang Ruoyu , Zhang Lianfeng , Zhao Yong
Published: March 2018

Macrophages acquire distinct phenotypes during tissue stress and inflammatory responses. Macrophages are roughly categorized into two different subsets named inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. We herein identified a unique pathogenic macrophage subpopulation driven by IL-23 with a distinct gene expression profile including defined types of cytokines. The freshly isolated resting mouse peritoneal macrophages were stimulated with different cytokines in vitro, the expression of cytokines and chemokines were detected by microarray, real-time PCR, ELISA and multiple colors flow cytometry. Adoptive transfer of macrophages and imiquimod-induced psoriasis mice were used. In contrast to M1- and M2-polarized macrophages, IL-23-treated macrophages produce large amounts of IL-17A, IL-22 and IFN-γ. Biochemical and molecular studies showed that IL-23 induces IL-17A expression in macrophages through the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)-retinoid related orphan receptor-γ T (RORγT) pathway. T-bet mediates the IFN-γ production in IL-23-treated macrophages. Importantly, IL-23-treated macrophages significantly promote the dermatitis pathogenesis in a psoriasis-like mouse model. IL-23-treated resting macrophages express a distinctive gene expression prolife compared with M1 and M2 macrophages. The identification of IL-23-induced macrophage polarization may help us to understand the contribution of macrophage subpopulation in Th17-cytokines-related pathogenesis.
Taking a step back: Self‐distancing dynamics in adolescent writing about peer problems
Authors: Margola Davide , Travagin Gabriele , Dennis John Lawrence
Published: March 2018

Can the retelling of an unpleasant experience help adolescents cope with that experience? This study answers that question by looking at the role of psychological self‐distancing when adolescents write about recently untold stressful events with peers using either a traditional expressive writing (EW) intervention or a cognitively oriented expressive writing (CEW) intervention. Extent of self‐distancing (i.e., low and high) as well as its variability (i.e., increasing or stable) were taken into account. Data, obtained from 292 written essays from 78 Italian adolescents (mean age was 12.9; 50% was female), were collected longitudinally on four occasions. Group‐based trajectory modeling determined the extent and variability in self‐distancing for the two writing interventions (i.e., EW and CEW) and two baseline peer problem conditions (i.e., low and high). Findings indicate that, for adolescents who experience high peer problems at baseline, CEW intervention fosters meaning‐making through self‐distancing, resulting in being more beneficial than traditional EW.
Usefulness of upright T wave in lead aVR for predicting short‐term prognosis of patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Yang Hong‐Jie , Liu Xin , Qu Chuan , Shi Shao‐Bo , Yang Bo
Published: March 2018

Background

Upright T wave in lead aVR (TaVR) has recently been reported to be associated with cardiovascular death and mortality in general population and in patients with prior cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the evidence for the predictive ability of TaVR in patients with ischemic stroke (IS) is lacking.

Methods

A total of 625 consecutive patients with IS (mean age: 66 ± 12 years; 379 male) were enrolled in this study between January 2013 and December 2014. Patients were divided into upright TaVR (≥0 mV; n = 201) and negative TaVR (<0 mV; n = 424) groups. All patients were evaluated with respect to clinical features and in‐hospital clinical results.

Results

Overall, the prevalence of upright TaVR was 32.2% at baseline. Patients with an upright TaVR were older, had a higher percentage of CVD and hypertension, higher level of MB isoenzyme of creatine kinase (CKMB), faster heart rate, higher rate of QT prolongation > 450 ms, higher rate of negative T in lead II, higher rate of negative T in lead V6, higher rate of ST depression, and longer QTc duration. During the mean follow‐up period of 20.0 ± 5.8 months, 29 (4.6%) patients experienced all‐cause death and 12 (1.9%) patients experienced cardiovascular death, the primary end point. Concomitantly, 94 (15%) patients experienced recurrence of IS, the secondary end point. After adjusting for clinical covariates, upright TaVR was independently associated with all‐cause death [hazard ratio (HR): 2.88, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.07–7.73], cardiovascular death (HR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.07–8.64), and IS recurrence (HR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.08–3.20).

Conclusions

Upright TaVR in patients with IS is associated with increased mortality and recurrence of IS.
Data integration through brain atlasing: Human Brain Project tools and strategies
Authors: Bjerke Ingvild E. , Øvsthus Martin , Papp Eszter A. , Yates Sharon C. , Silvestri Ludovico , Fiorilli Julien , Pennartz Cyriel M.A. , Pavone Francesco S. , Puchades Maja A. , Leergaard Trygve B. , Bjaalie Jan G.
Published: March 2018

The Human Brain Project (HBP), an EU Flagship Initiative, is currently building an infrastructure that will allow integration of large amounts of heterogeneous neuroscience data. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop a unified multi-level understanding of the brain and its diseases, and beyond this to emulate the computational capabilities of the brain. Reference atlases of the brain are one of the key components in this infrastructure. Based on a new generation of three-dimensional (3D) reference atlases, new solutions for analyzing and integrating brain data are being developed. HBP will build services for spatial query and analysis of brain data comparable to current online services for geospatial data. The services will provide interactive access to a wide range of data types that have information about anatomical location tied to them. The 3D volumetric nature of the brain, however, introduces a new level of complexity that requires a range of tools for making use of and interacting with the atlases. With such new tools, neuroscience research groups will be able to connect their data to atlas space, share their data through online data systems, and search and find other relevant data through the same systems. This new approach partly replaces earlier attempts to organize research data based only on a set of semantic terminologies describing the brain and its subdivisions.
Outcome age‐based prediction of successful cognitive aging by total cholesterol
Authors: Silverman Jeremy M. , Schmeidler James
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Some associations of high total cholesterol with dementia risk diminish as the outcome age—age at cognitive assessment—increases.

Methods

The Framingham Heart Study provided 1897 participants with intact cognition at entry. Cox regression analysis for incident marked cognitive decline included “time‐dependent” coefficients, with associations between total cholesterol and covariates changing by outcome age. Decline within age categories of 75–84 and 85–94 years was also examined.

Results

Significant associations of rising total cholesterol linear slope, low entry age, low education, and statin nonuse with risk diminished significantly by outcome age. At 85–94 years, falling linear slope was significant.

Discussion

The protected survival model posits a minority subpopulation with protection against mortality and cognitive decline associated with total cholesterol risk factors. It predicts the observed diminished or reversed cholesterol associations with increasing age. Protection is particularly likely for successful cognitive aging—intact cognition at very old age—despite increased risk from cholesterol.
Sexual Inhibition is a Vulnerability Factor for Orgasm Problems in Women
Authors: Tavares Inês M. , Laan Ellen T.M. , Nobre Pedro J.
Published: March 2018

Background

The differential role of psychological traits in the etiology and maintenance of female orgasm difficulties is yet to be consistently established.

Aim

To investigate the contribution of different psychological trait features (personality, sexual inhibition and excitation, and sexual beliefs) to predict female orgasm and to assess the degree to which these dispositional factors moderate the association between sexual activity and orgasm occurrence in a large community sample of Portuguese women.

Methods

1,002 women (18–72 years, mean age = 26.27, SD = 8.74) completed questionnaires assessing personality traits (NEO-Five Factor Inventory), sexual inhibition and sexual excitation (Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales–Short Form [SIS/SES]), sexual beliefs (Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire), sexual behavior (frequency of sexual activities and frequency of orgasm occurrence), and social desirability (Socially Desirable Response Set). Hierarchical multiple regression and moderation analyses were conducted while controlling for the effect of covariates such as social desirability, sociodemographic and medical characteristics, and relationship factors.

Outcomes

The main outcome measurement was orgasm frequency as predicted and moderated by personality, SIS/SES dimensions, and sexual beliefs.

Results

Results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated a significant predictive role for sexual inhibition (associated with fear of performance failure [SIS1] and related to the threat of performance consequences) and body image beliefs in female orgasm occurrence. The significant predictive effect of extraversion and of sexual excitation on orgasm frequency ceased to be significant with the insertion of all trait predictors in the final model. Furthermore, SIS1 significantly moderated the relation between sexual activity and orgasm occurrence.

Clinical Implications

Attention should be given to individual factors impairing orgasmic response in women, particularly sexual inhibition processes. The development of clinical strategies to address and regulate them is recommended.

Strengths and Limitations

Although this study investigated a large community sample, this sample was composed of heterosexual, relatively young women and thus generalization of the present results demands some caution. Social desirability was controlled for in the analyses and questionnaires were not collected face to face, which constitutes a strength of this study because social desirability is lower in self-administered online questionnaires compared with paper-and-pencil questionnaires, particularly for more sensitive sexual issues.

Conclusion

SIS1 was found to be a vulnerability factor for female orgasmic difficulties. Future research should test these findings with different samples, particularly clinical samples of women with orgasmic problems, preferably with the use of longitudinal designs.
Male Sexuality, Fertility, and Urinary Continence in Bladder Exstrophy-Epispadias Complex
Authors: Reynaud Nelly , Courtois Frédérique , Mouriquand Pierre , Morel-Journel Nicolas , Charvier Kathleen , Gérard Marina , Ruffion Alain , Terrier Jean-Etienne
Published: March 2018

Background

The bladder exstrophy-epispadias complex is a rare congenital malformation associated with severe dysfunction of the genital and urinary tracts and requiring a staged surgical reconstruction.

Aim

The primary aims of this study were to report the sexuality, infertility, and urinary incontinence outcomes in a cohort of men born with bladder exstrophy-epispadias complex. The secondary aim was to highlight some predictive factors of infertility in this population.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study of men diagnosed with classic presentations of bladder exstrophy or epispadias.

Outcomes

Patients were asked to complete 4 validated questionnaires: the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5, the Erection Hardness Score (EHS), the Self-Esteem and Relationship, and the International Consultation Incontinence modular Questionnaire-Short Form. Fertility potential was assessed with semen analysis and a non-validated questionnaire.

Results

38 Patients 18–64 years old (M [mean] = 32.2) completed the questionnaires. The average IIEF-5 score was 18.1/25 (ranging from 3–25; SE = 7.62), with results indicating that 55% of the sample had normal erectile function. Results also showed higher scores for patients with normal spermatozoa concentration (M = 22.75, SE = 1.89, P = .08) than for those with oligospermia (M = 17.30, SE = 8.53, P = .08). Results on the IIEF-5 also indicated higher scores for patients who conceived children without assisted reproductive technologies (ART) (M = 22.83, SE = 2.317, P = .02) than for patients without children (M = 15.76, SE = 8.342, P = .02). The average EHS was 3.43/4 (ranging from 1–4, SE = 0.9). EHS was higher for patients who had reconstruction than for patients who had cystectomy (M = 3.88, SE = 1.07 and 2.78, SE = 1.09, P = .02). The average total Self-Esteem and Relationship score was 67.04/100 (ranging from 10.71–96.43, SE = 22.11). The average total International Consultation Incontinence modular Questionnaire-Short Form score was 4.97/21 (ranging from 0–18, SE = 5.44), higher score indicating more urinary incontinence. Among the patients surveyed, 31.6% were parents at the time of study and 50% of them benefited from ART. With regards to the 14 semen analyses performed, only 7.1% produced normal results and 44.7% indicated that ejaculation was weak and dribbling.

Clinical Translation

Erectile function appears to be decreased and psychological aspects of sexuality indicate low self-esteem about sexual relationship. Although ethical problems could not allow prospective spermograms, our cohort is large enough to provide significant data.

Conclusions

Early sperm storage for future ART, sexual medicine management, and complementary genital reconstruction in adulthood constitute potential treatment options for this population.
Sexual Activity, Sexual Dysfunction, and Sexual Life Quality Among Psychiatric Hospital Inpatients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Ma Mi-Chia , Chao Jian-Kang , Hung Jia-Yi , Sung Su-Ching , Chao I-Hsin Candy
Published: March 2018

Background

Sexual dysfunction occurs commonly in patients with psychiatric illness and may be related to the primary mental disorder, comorbidity with sexual disorders or medical illness, or medications used for mental disorders treatment, but the magnitude of this problem is unknown.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of current sexual activity, sexual dysfunction, and sexual attitude and influence of factors on patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional design with a total of 317 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. The subjects completed a demographic questionnaire, sexual attitude scale, sexual dysfunction scale, and sexual behavior scale. Descriptive analysis, difference analysis, and logistic regression model were used to identify relevant variables that may affect sexual life quality.

Outcomes

Age, sexual satisfaction, and patient symptoms may predict sexual life quality on patients with schizophrenia.

Results

The mean age of patients was 47.71 ± 9.54 years old. About the sexual activities, 53% of subjects had sexual intercourse experience, and 41.3% reported currently having sexual intercourse. The mean ± SD age for first sexual intercourse was 20.83 ± 5.95 years old (median was 20.0 years old). Moreover, women older than 50 years had significantly higher medians for the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) score, higher proportions of sexual dysfunction, and lower proportions of feeling important to sexual life quality than men. For participants with age ≤50 years old, there was a significant relationship among BPRS group (mean score >2.5 vs ≤2.5), sexual dysfunction (P < .001), sexual life quality (P < .001), and sexual satisfaction (P = .006). Among the predictors of feeling important to sexual life quality, sexual satisfaction (odds ratio = 7.005, 95% CI = 4.126–11.892, P < .001) and BPRS score (odds ratio = 4.501, 95% CI = 2.042–9.923, P < .001) were significant independent factors after adding the interaction of age group and BPRS group.

Clinical Translation

This study also reveals the close relationship between sexual satisfaction and BPRS score, which may predict sexual life quality of patients with schizophrenia. Limitations include the possibility of underreporting and bias associated with self-report measurement.

Conclusion

Sexual life quality and sexual dysfunction on patients with schizophrenia are associated with interaction among psychological, sociological, and biochemical-pharmacological factors.
Amelioration of Cavernosal Fibrosis and Erectile Function by Lysyl Oxidase Inhibition in a Rat Model of Cavernous Nerve Injury
Authors: Wan Zhi-Hua , Li Guo-Hao , Guo Yong-Lian , Li Wen-Zhou , Chen Lin , Zhang Yuan-Jie
Published: March 2018

Background

Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) causes fibrosis and loss of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in the corpus cavernosum and leads to erectile dysfunction, and lysyl oxidase (LOX) activation has been found to play an important role in fibrotic diseases.

Aim

To evaluate the role of LOX in penile fibrosis after bilateral CNI (BCNI).

Methods

Rats underwent BCNI or a sham operation and were treated with vehicle or β-aminopropionitrile, a specific LOX activity inhibitor. 30 days after BCNI, rats were tested for erectile function before penile tissue harvest. LOX and extracellular matrix component expression levels in the corpus cavernosum, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), fibronectin (FN), collagen (COL) I, and COL IV, were evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Corporal fibrosis was evaluated by Masson trichrome staining. Localization of LOX and SMC content in the corpus cavernosum were assessed by immunohistochemistry.

Outcomes

Ratio of intracavernous pressure to mean arterial blood pressure; LOX, MMPs, TIMPs, COL I, COL IV, and FN expression; penile fibrosis; penile SMC content.

Results

After BCNI, there was an increase in penile LOX expression and activity, increased penile fibrosis, decreased SMC content, and impaired erectile function. TIMP1, TIMP2, COL I, COL IV, and FN expression was markedly upregulated, whereas the enzyme activity of MMPs was decreased after BCNI. β-Aminopropionitrile treatment, at least in part, prevented a decrease in the ratio of intracavernous pressure to mean arterial blood pressure, decreased penile expression of TIMP1, TIMP2, COL I, COL IV, and FN, increased MMP activity, prevented corporal fibrosis, and preserved SMC content.

Clinical Translation

LOX over-activation contributes to penile fibrosis and LOX inhibition could be a promising strategy in preventing the progression of CNI-induced erectile dysfunction.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the 1st study to demonstrate the role of LOX activation in penile fibrosis. However, the exact mechanism of how LOX influences extracellular matrix protein synthesis and SMC content preservation awaits further investigation.

Conclusion

CNI induced LOX over-activation in cavernous tissue, and inhibition of LOX preserved penile morphology and improved erectile function in a rat model of BCNI.
Characteristics and outcomes of older emergency department patients assigned a low acuity triage score
Authors: Hendin Ariel , Eagles Debra , Myers Victoria , Stiell Ian G.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Although older patients are a high-risk population in the emergency department (ED), little is known about those identified as “less acute” at triage. We aimed to describe the outcomes of patients ages 65 years and older who receive low acuity triage scores.

Methods

This health records review assessed ED patients who were ages 65 years and above or ages 40 to 55 years (controls) who received a Canadian Triage Acuity Scale score of 4 or 5. Data collected included patient demographics, ED management, disposition, and a return visit or hospital admission at 14 days. Data were analysed descriptively and chi-square testing performed. A pre-planned stratified analysis of patients ages 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and 85 and older was conducted.

Results

Three hundred fifty older patients with a mean age of 76.5 years and 150 control patients were included. Most patients presented with musculoskeletal or skin complaints and were triaged to the ambulatory care area. Older patients were significantly more likely than controls to be admitted on the index visit (5.0% v. 0.3%, p=0.016) and on re-presentation (4.0% v. 0.7%, p=0.045). In a subgroup analysis, patients ages 85 years and above were most likely to be admitted (8.9%, p=0.003).

Conclusions

Older patients who present to the ED with issues labelled as “less acute” at triage are 16 times more likely to be admitted than younger controls. Patients ages 85 years and up are the primary drivers of this higher admission rate. Our study indicates that even “low acuity” elders presenting to the ED are at risk for re-presentation and admission within 14 days.
Tele2 Sverige AB v. Post-Och Telestyrelsen and Secretary of State for the Home Department v. Tom Watson, Peter Brice, and Geoffrey Lewis (C.J.E.U.)
Authors: Villarica Michelle Marie F.
Published: March 2018

In the joint cases of Tele2 Sverige AB v. Post-och telestyrelsen and Secretary of State for the Home Department v. Tom Watson, Peter Brice, and Geoffrey Lewis (the Decision), the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) held that member states are precluded from adopting legislation that allows a general and indiscriminate retention of all traffic and location data. While targeted retention of data is allowed for the specific objective of fighting serious crime, retention must be proportionate and access to the data must be limited to what is strictly necessary. To ensure that this is achieved, adequate safeguards must be set in place and access to the data must be subject to prior review by a court or independent administrative body.
AMS Dating of the Late Copper Age Varna Cemetery, Bulgaria
Authors: Higham Thomas , Slavchev Vladimir , Gaydarska Bisserka , Chapman John
Published: March 2018

The Varna I cemetery, on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, is one of the most remarkable sites in European prehistory, with the world’s earliest large-scale assemblage of gold artifacts. Modeling of the first series of 14 accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) dates yielded a duration of occupation at the site of ca. 150 years, ~4600–4450 cal BC. However, there were insufficient paired human–animal dates for a full consideration of the question of the marine reservoir effect. Here, a fuller set of 71 dates from 53 graves is presented. We identify a small reservoir effect in a number of individuals based on 14C, as well as carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes. We test the effect of this by building a series of different Bayesian models. Our favored model, including a correction for some of the human determinations, shows activity at the cemetery starting at 4596–4516 cal BC and ending 4427–4341 cal BC (at 95.4% probability). The overall span of activity covers ~120–260 years (93.6% prob.). The modeling shows that Varna I falls toward the beginning of the Bulgarian Late Copper Age.
Household-level factors associated with relapse following discharge from treatment for moderate acute malnutrition
Authors: Stobaugh Heather C. , Rogers Beatrice L. , Webb Patrick , Rosenberg Irwin H. , Thakwalakwa Chrissie , Maleta Kenneth M. , Trehan Indi , Manary Mark J.
Published: March 2018

Factors associated with relapse among children who are discharged after reaching a threshold denoted ‘recovered’ from moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) are not well understood. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with sustained recovery, defined as maintaining a mid-upper-arm circumference≥12·5 cm for 1 year after release from treatment. On the basis of an observational study design, we analysed data from an in-depth household (HH) survey on a sub-sample of participants within a larger cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) that followed up children for 1 year after recovery from MAM. Out of 1497 children participating in the cRCT, a subset of 315 children participated in this sub-study. Accounting for other factors, HH with fitted lids on water storage containers (P=0·004) was a significant predictor of sustained recovery. In addition, sustained recovery was better among children whose caregivers were observed to have clean hands (P=0·053) and in HH using an improved sanitation facility (P=0·083). By contrast, socio-economic status and infant and young child feeding practices at the time of discharge and HH food security throughout the follow-up period were not significant. Given these results, we hypothesise that improved water, sanitation and hygiene conditions in tandem with management of MAM through supplemental feeding programmes have the possibility to decrease relapse following recovery from MAM. Furthermore, the absence of associations between relapse and nearly all HH-level factors indicates that the causal factors of relapse may be related mostly to the child’s individual, underlying health and nutrition status.
Dietary inflammatory index and risk of oesophageal cancer in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China
Authors: Tang Li , Shivappa Nitin , Hebert James R. , Lee Andy H. , Xu Fenglian , Binns Colin W.
Published: March 2018

Diet has been shown to have an effect on both inflammation and oesophageal cancer. This study investigated the association between the dietary inflammatory index (DII®) and the risk of oesophageal cancer in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China. A case–control study was conducted during 2008–2009 in Urumqi and Shihezi. DII scores were calculated based on dietary intake assessed by a validated FFQ administered to 359 incident oesophageal cancer patients and 380 hospital-based controls. Higher DII scores indicate more pro-inflammatory diets. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between DII scores and oesophageal cancer risk. Oesophageal cancer patients had a significantly higher median DII score (−0·35; interquartile range (IQR)=−2·25, 1·86) than that of controls (−1·41; IQR −3·07, 0·40). Multivariable logistic analysis revealed a positive association between higher DII scores and oesophageal cancer risk (ORQuartile 4 v. 1 2·55; 95 % CI 1·61, 4·06; Ptrend<0·001). A pro-inflammatory diet appears to be associated with an increased risk of oesophageal cancer in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Specific carcinogenic mechanisms are discussed. Accumulating evidence, to which the study contributes, indicates that encouraging the intake of more anti-inflammatory foods may be a strategy to protect against oesophageal cancer in this high-risk area of China.
Helminth endoparasites of the smooth newtLissotriton vulgaris: linking morphological identification and molecular data
Authors: Sinsch U. , Heneberg P. , Těšínský M. , Balczun C. , Scheid P.
Published: March 2018

The helminth endoparasites of many European amphibian species are often known exclusively from morphological descriptions. A molecular library of DNA sequence data linked to morphological identifications is still in its infancy. In this paper, we aim to contribute to such a library on the smooth newtLissotriton vulgaris,the intermediate and definitive host of 31 helminth parasites, according to evidence published so far. Newts (n= 69) were collected at two study sites in western Germany and examined for the presence of helminths. A total of five helminth species were detected in 56 (81%) of the newts, but only one or two species infected a single host. Four out of five helminth species were identified morphologically and based on DNA sequences asParastrigea robusta(metacercariae),Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Megalobatrachonema terdentatum(adults and larvae) andCosmocerca longicauda, and the corresponding sequences were provided subsequently.Oswaldocruzia molgetawas confirmed to be a junior synonym ofO. filiformis. Molecular data on a fifth species (a cosmocercid nematode) that could not be identified at species level were added to GenBank. These findings increased the molecular library on morphologically identified smooth newt parasites significantly, from 12 to 15 entries.
From expressing solidarity to mocking on Twitter: Pragmatic functions of hashtags starting with #jesuisacross languages
Authors: De Cock Barbara , Pizarro Pedraza Andrea
Published: March 2018

In this article, we show how the hashtag#jesuisCharlie, created following the attack onCharlie Hebdo, gave rise to the use of many other hashtags starting with#jesuis, across languages. Through a corpus-based analysis, we show how the meaning of#jesuisbroadened from expressing condolence and support following terrorist attacks over expressing condolence for other (violent) deaths to a more general marker of solidarity and alignment. This broadening of meaning is parallel to a formal evolution of the stemjesuis. Moreover, these hashtags have become emblematic of a particular kind of Twitter user. Furthermore, disaligning uses developed, including mocking uses, which disalign both with certain causes (disalignmentde re) and with the process of usingjesuisas a means of expressing solidarity (disalignmentde dicto). Thus, this variety of uses shows that Twitter users exploit the interpersonal possibilities of hashtags to express alignment and disalignment, creating ambient affiliation. (Hashtag,#jesuisCharlie, solidarity, alignment, emblem, mocking, pragmatic functions)*
Pension funds, large capital inflows and stock returns in a thin market
Authors: BRZESZCZYŃSKI JANUSZ , BOHL MARTIN T. , SERWA DOBROMIŁ
Published: March 2018

Using unique data about capital flows from the public social security institute ZUS (Zakład Ubezpieczeń Społecznych) to private pension funds OFEs (Otwarte Fundusze Emerytalne) in Poland, we find that their impact, as a group of large institutional investors, on stock returns is statistically significant in short-term but no such effect exists in the long-run. This result is consistent with the temporary price pressure hypothesis of Ben-Rephael et al. (2011). We analyze the capital transfers, in the form of the aggregated pension contributions collected from all employees in the entire Polish economy, from the ZUS to the private pension funds, which further invest this capital on the stock market. The average time for the subsequent reaction of stock prices is found to be 4 days. The trading strategy based on this result generates superior outcomes in comparison with the passive strategy, which further confirms the price impact of capital inflows. Our findings are not only relevant for stock market investors but they also have broader policy implications for stock market regulators and for the national pension regulators.
Quasi-optical analysis of a double reflector microwave antenna system
Authors: Pereira Ricardo A. M. , Carvalho Nuno Borges , da Cunha José Pinto
Published: March 2018

By using quasi-optical tools, it is possible to approximate microwave radiation to Gaussian beams, which enables the study of its propagation and coupling to different components. Hence, their usefulness for wireless power transfer and rapid system design. In this paper, a system composed of two reflectors is analyzed both theoretically and by discussing two cases where quasi-optical tools were applied. The near- and far-field regimes were considered and corresponding frequencies of operation, beam radius, and radius of curvature were computed.
Differential effect of quetiapine and lithium on functional connectivity of the striatum in first episode mania
Authors: Dandash Orwa , Yücel Murat , Daglas Rothanthi , Pantelis Christos , McGorry Patrick , Berk Michael , Fornito Alex
Published: March 2018

Mood disturbances seen in first-episode mania (FEM) are linked to disturbed functional connectivity of the striatum. Lithium and quetiapine are effective treatments for mania but their neurobiological effects remain largely unknown. We conducted a single-blinded randomized controlled maintenance trial in 61 FEM patients and 30 healthy controls. Patients were stabilized for a minimum of 2 weeks on lithium plus quetiapine then randomly assigned to either lithium (serum level 0.6 mmol/L) or quetiapine (dosed up to 800 mg/day) treatment for 12 months. Resting-state fMRI was acquired at baseline, 3 months (patient only) and 12 months. The effects of treatment group, time and their interaction, on striatal functional connectivity were assessed using voxel-wise general linear modelling. At baseline, FEM patients showed reduced connectivity in the dorsal (p = 0.05) and caudal (p = 0.008) cortico-striatal systems when compared to healthy controls at baseline. FEM patients also showed increased connectivity in a circuit linking the ventral striatum with the medial orbitofrontal cortex, cerebellum and thalamus (p = 0.02). Longitudinally, we found a significant interaction between time and treatment group, such that lithium was more rapid, compared to quetiapine, in normalizing abnormally increased functional connectivity, as assessed at 3-month and 12-month follow-ups. The results suggest that FEM is associated with reduced connectivity in dorsal and caudal corticostriatal systems, as well as increased functional connectivity of ventral striatal systems. Lithium appears to act more rapidly than quetiapine in normalizing hyperconnectivity of the ventral striatum with the cerebellum. The study was registered on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12607000639426). http://www.anzctr.org.au
Mitochondrial fission protein Drp1 inhibition promotes cardiac mesodermal differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Hoque Ashfaqul , Sivakumaran Priyadharshini , Bond Simon T. , Ling Naomi X. Y. , Kong Anne M. , Scott John W. , Bandara Nadeeka , Hernández Damián , Liu Guei-Sheung , Wong Raymond C. B. , Ryan Michael T. , Hausenloy Derek J. , Kemp Bruce E. , Oakhill Jonathan S. , Drew Brian G. , Pébay Alice , Lim Shiang Y.
Published: March 2018

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a valuable tool for studying the cardiac developmental process in vitro, and cardiomyocytes derived from iPSCs are a putative cell source for personalized medicine. Changes in mitochondrial morphology have been shown to occur during cellular reprogramming and pluripotent stem cell differentiation. However, the relationships between mitochondrial dynamics and cardiac mesoderm commitment of iPSCs remain unclear. Here we demonstrate that changes in mitochondrial morphology from a small granular fragmented phenotype in pluripotent stem cells to a filamentous reticular elongated network in differentiated cardiomyocytes are required for cardiac mesodermal differentiation. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of the mitochondrial fission protein, Drp1, by either small interfering RNA or Mdivi-1, respectively, increased cardiac mesoderm gene expression in iPSCs. Treatment of iPSCs with Mdivi-1 during embryoid body formation significantly increased the percentage of beating embryoid bodies and expression of cardiac-specific genes. Furthermore, Drp1 gene silencing was accompanied by increased mitochondrial respiration and decreased aerobic glycolysis. Our findings demonstrate that shifting the balance of mitochondrial morphology toward fusion by inhibition of Drp1 promoted cardiac differentiation of human iPSCs with a metabolic shift from glycolysis towards oxidative phosphorylation. These findings suggest that Drp1 may represent a new molecular target for future development of strategies to promote the differentiation of human iPSCs into cardiac lineages for patient-specific cardiac regenerative medicine.
Large enhancement of response times of a protein conformational switch by computational design
Authors: DeGrave Alex J. , Ha Jeung-Hoi , Loh Stewart N. , Chong Lillian T.
Published: March 2018

The design of protein conformational switches—or proteins that change conformations in response to a signal such as ligand binding—has great potential for developing novel biosensors, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic agents. Among the defining properties of such switches, the response time has been the most challenging to optimize. Here we apply a computational design strategy in synergistic combination with biophysical experiments to rationally improve the response time of an engineered protein-based Ca2+-sensor in which the switching process occurs via mutually exclusive folding of two alternate frames. Notably, our strategy identifies mutations that increase switching rates by as much as 32-fold, achieving response times on the order of fast physiological Ca2+ fluctuations. Our computational design strategy is general and may aid in optimizing the kinetics of other protein conformational switches.
Efficient first-principles prediction of solid stability: Towards chemical accuracy
Authors: Zhang Yubo , Kitchaev Daniil A. , Yang Julia , Chen Tina , Dacek Stephen T. , Sarmiento-Pérez Rafael A. , Marques Maguel A. L. , Peng Haowei , Ceder Gerbrand , Perdew John P. , Sun Jianwei
Published: March 2018

The question of material stability is of fundamental importance to any analysis of system properties in condensed matter physics and materials science. The ability to evaluate chemical stability, i.e., whether a stoichiometry will persist in some chemical environment, and structure selection, i.e. what crystal structure a stoichiometry will adopt, is critical to the prediction of materials synthesis, reactivity and properties. Here, we demonstrate that density functional theory, with the recently developed strongly constrained and appropriately normed (SCAN) functional, has advanced to a point where both facets of the stability problem can be reliably and efficiently predicted for main group compounds, while transition metal compounds are improved but remain a challenge. SCAN therefore offers a robust model for a significant portion of the periodic table, presenting an opportunity for the development of novel materials and the study of fine phase transformations even in largely unexplored systems with little to no experimental data.
Author Correction: Unconventional and conventional quantum criticalities in CeRh0.58Ir0.42In5
Authors: Luo Yongkang , Lu Xin , Dioguardi Adam P. , Rosa Priscila F. S. , Bauer Eric D. , Si Qimiao , Thompson Joe D.
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML version of this article.
Physical Exercise and Spatial Training: A Longitudinal Study of Effects on Cognition, Growth Factors, and Hippocampal Plasticity
Authors: Woost Luise , Bazin Pierre-Louis , Taubert Marco , Trampel Robert , Tardif Christine L. , Garthe Alexander , Kempermann Gerd , Renner Ulrich , Stalla Günter , Ott Derek V. M. , Rjosk Viola , Obrig Hellmuth , Villringer Arno , Roggenhofer Elisabeth , Klein Tilmann A.
Published: March 2018

Physical exercise has been suggested to improve cognitive performance through various neurobiological mechanisms, mediated by growth factors such as BDNF, IGF-I, and VEGF. Moreover, animal research has demonstrated that combined physical and cognitive stimulation leads to increased adult neurogenesis as compared to either experimental condition alone. In the present study, we therefore investigated whether a sequential combination of physical and spatial training in young, healthy adults elicits an additive effect on training and transfer gains. To this end, we compared the effects of (i) eight 20-minute sessions of cycling, (ii) sixteen 30-minute sessions of spatial training, (iii) a combination of both, and included (iv) a passive control cohort. We assessed longitudinal changes in cognitive performance, growth factor levels, and T1 relaxation of hippocampal subfields (acquired with 7 T MRI). While substantial physical and spatial training gains were elicited in all trained groups, longitudinal transfer changes did not differ between these groups. Notably, we found no evidence for an additive effect of sequential physical and spatial training. These results challenge the extrapolation from the findings reported in animals to young, healthy adults.
Author Correction: Nitric oxide mediated inhibition of antigen presentation from DCs to CD4+ T cells in cancer and measurement of STAT1 nitration
Authors: Markowitz Joseph , Wang Jiang , Vangundy Zach , You Jia , Yildiz Vedat , Yu Lianbo , Foote Isaac P. , Branson Owen E. , Stiff Andrew R. , Brooks Taylor R. , Biesiadecki Brandon , Olencki Thomas , Tridandapani Susheela , Freitas Michael A. , Papenfuss Tracey , Phelps Mitch A. , Carson William E.
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Lithium chloride effectively kills the honey bee parasite Varroa destructor by a systemic mode of action
Authors: Ziegelmann Bettina , Abele Elisabeth , Hannus Stefan , Beitzinger Michaela , Berg Stefan , Rosenkranz Peter
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: Dynamic Mechano-Regulation of Myoblast Cells on Supramolecular Hydrogels Cross-Linked by Reversible Host-Guest Interactions
Authors: Hörning Marcel , Nakahata Masaki , Linke Philipp , Yamamoto Akihisa , Veschgini Mariam , Kaufmann Stefan , Takashima Yoshinori , Harada Akira , Tanaka Motomu
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Complementarity of assembly-first and mapping-first approaches for alternative splicing annotation and differential analysis from RNAseq data
Authors: Benoit-Pilven Clara , Marchet Camille , Chautard Emilie , Lima Leandro , Lambert Marie-Pierre , Sacomoto Gustavo , Rey Amandine , Cologne Audric , Terrone Sophie , Dulaurier Louis , Claude Jean-Baptiste , Bourgeois Cyril F. , Auboeuf Didier , Lacroix Vincent
Published: March 2018

Genome-wide analyses estimate that more than 90% of multi exonic human genes produce at least two transcripts through alternative splicing (AS). Various bioinformatics methods are available to analyze AS from RNAseq data. Most methods start by mapping the reads to an annotated reference genome, but some start by a de novo assembly of the reads. In this paper, we present a systematic comparison of a mapping-first approach (FaRLine) and an assembly-first approach (KisSplice). We applied these methods to two independent RNAseq datasets and found that the predictions of the two pipelines overlapped (70% of exon skipping events were common), but with noticeable differences. The assembly-first approach allowed to find more novel variants, including novel unannotated exons and splice sites. It also predicted AS in recently duplicated genes. The mapping-first approach allowed to find more lowly expressed splicing variants, and splice variants overlapping repeats. This work demonstrates that annotating AS with a single approach leads to missing out a large number of candidates, many of which are differentially regulated across conditions and can be validated experimentally. We therefore advocate for the combined use of both mapping-first and assembly-first approaches for the annotation and differential analysis of AS from RNAseq datasets.
Cerebrospinal fluid neurogranin and TREM2 in Huntington’s disease
Authors: Byrne Lauren M. , Rodrigues Filipe B. , Johnson Eileanoir B. , De Vita Enrico , Blennow Kaj , Scahill Rachael , Zetterberg Henrik , Heslegrave Amanda , Wild Edward J.
Published: March 2018

Biomarkers of Huntington’s disease (HD) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) could be of value in elucidating the biology of this genetic neurodegenerative disease, as well as in the development of novel therapeutics. Deranged synaptic and immune function have been reported in HD, and concentrations of the synaptic protein neurogranin and the microglial protein TREM2 are increased in other neurodegenerative diseases. We therefore used ELISAs to quantify neurogranin and TREM2 in CSF samples from HD mutation carriers and controls. CSF neurogranin concentration was not significantly altered in HD compared to controls, nor was it significantly associated with disease burden score, total functional capacity or motor score. An apparent increase in CSF TREM2 in manifest HD was determined to be due to increasing TREM2 with age. After age adjustment, there was no significant alteration of TREM2 in either HD group, nor any association with motor, functional or cognitive score, or brain volume quantified by MRI. Both analyses were well-powered, and sample size calculations indicated that several thousand samples per group would be needed to prove that disease-associated alterations do in fact exist. We conclude that neither neurogranin nor TREM2 is a useful biofluid biomarker for disease processes in Huntington’s disease.
Publisher Correction: Carbon nanowalls as a platform for biological SERS studies
Authors: Dyakonov Pavel , Mironovich Kirill , Svyakhovskiy Sergey , Voloshina Olga , Dagesyan Sarkis , Panchishin Andrey , Suetin Nikolay , Bagratashvili Victor , Timashev Petr , Shirshin Evgeny , Evlashin Stanislav
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: A strategy for effective latent HIV reactivation using subtherapeutic drug doses
Authors: Cotterell James , Neely G. Gregory
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Author Correction: The thiazide sensitive sodium chloride co-transporter NCC is modulated by site-specific ubiquitylation
Authors: Rosenbaek Lena L. , Rizzo Federica , Wu Qi , Rojas-Vega Lorena , Gamba Gerardo , MacAulay Nanna , Staub Olivier , Fenton Robert A.
Published: March 2018

A correction has been published and is appended to both the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.
Publisher Correction: Vimentin knockout results in increased expression of sub-endothelial basement membrane components and carotid stiffness in mice
Authors: Langlois Benoit , Belozertseva Ekaterina , Parlakian Ara , Bourhim Mustapha , Gao-Li Jacqueline , Blanc Jocelyne , Tian Lei , Coletti Dario , Labat Carlos , Ramdame-Cherif Zhor , Challande Pascal , Regnault Véronique , Lacolley Patrick , Li Zhenlin
Published: March 2018

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.