bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrocatalytic Metal–Organic Frameworks for Energy Applications
Authors: Downes Courtney A. , Marinescu Smaranda C.
Published: October 2017

With the global energy demand expected to increase drastically over the next several decades, the development of a sustainable energy system to meet this increase is paramount. Renewable energy sources can be coupled with electrochemical conversion processes to store energy in chemical bonds. To promote these difficult transformations, electrocatalysts that operate at high conversion rates and efficiency are required. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a promising class of materials; however, the insulating nature of MOFs has limited their application as electrocatalysts. The recent development of conductive MOFs has led to several electrocatalytic MOFs that display activity comparable to that of the best‐performing heterogeneous catalysts. Although many electrocatalytic MOFs exhibit low activity and stability, the few successful examples highlight the possibility of MOF electrocatalysts as replacements for noble‐metal‐based catalysts in commercial energy‐converting devices. We review herein the use of pristine MOFs as electrocatalysts to facilitate important energy‐related reactions.
Prozac in the water: Chronic fluoxetine exposure and predation risk interact to shape behaviors in an estuarine crab
Authors: Peters Joseph R. , Granek Elise F. , de Rivera Catherine E. , Rollins Matthew
Published: September 2017

Predators exert considerable top‐down pressure on ecosystems by directly consuming prey or indirectly influencing their foraging behaviors and habitat use. Prey is, therefore, forced to balance predation risk with resource reward. A growing list of anthropogenic stressors such as rising temperatures and ocean acidification has been shown to influence prey risk behaviors and subsequently alter important ecosystem processes. Yet, limited attention has been paid to the effects of chronic pharmaceutical exposure on risk behavior or as an ecological stressor, despite widespread detection and persistence of these contaminants in aquatic environments. In the laboratory, we simulated estuarine conditions of the shore crab, Hemigrapsus oregonensis, and investigated whether chronic exposure (60 days) to field‐detected concentrations (0, 3, and 30 ng/L) of the antidepressant fluoxetine affected diurnal and nocturnal risk behaviors in the presence of a predator, Cancer productus. We found that exposure to fluoxetine influenced both diurnal and nocturnal prey risk behaviors by increasing foraging and locomotor activity in the presence of predators, particularly during the day when these crabs normally stay hidden. Crabs exposed to fluoxetine were also more aggressive, with a higher frequency of agonistic interactions and increased mortality due to conflicts with conspecifics. These results suggest that exposure to field‐detected concentrations of fluoxetine may alter the trade‐off between resource acquisition and predation risk among crabs in estuaries. This fills an important data gap, highlighting how intra‐ and interspecific behaviors are altered by exposure to field concentrations of pharmaceuticals; such data more explicitly identify potential ecological impacts of emerging contaminants on aquatic ecosystems and can aid water quality management.
Global population structure and adaptive evolution of aflatoxin‐producing fungi
Authors: Moore Geromy G. , Olarte Rodrigo A. , Horn Bruce W. , Elliott Jacalyn L. , Singh Rakhi , O'Neal Carolyn J. , Carbone Ignazio
Published: September 2017

Aflatoxins produced by several species inAspergillussectionFlaviare a significant problem in agriculture and a continuous threat to human health. To provide insights into the biology and global population structure of species in sectionFlavi, a total of 1,304 isolates were sampled across six species (A. flavus, A. parasiticus, A. nomius, A. caelatus, A. tamarii,andA. alliaceus) from single fields in major peanut‐growing regions in Georgia (USA), Australia, Argentina, India, and Benin (Africa). We inferred maximum‐likelihood phylogenies for six loci, both combined and separately, including two aflatoxin cluster regions (aflM/alfNandaflW/aflX) and four noncluster regions (amdS, trpC, mfsandMAT), to examine population structure and history. We also employed principal component and STRUCTURE analysis to identify genetic clusters and their associations with six different categories (geography, species, precipitation, temperature, aflatoxin chemotype profile, and mating type). Overall, seven distinct genetic clusters were inferred, some of which were more strongly structured by G chemotype diversity than geography. Populations ofA. flavusS in Benin were genetically distinct from all other sectionFlavispecies for the loci examined, which suggests genetic isolation. Evidence of trans‐speciation within two noncluster regions, wherebyA. flavusSBGstrains from Australia share haplotypes with eitherA. flavusorA. parasiticus, was observed. Finally, while clay soil and precipitation may influence species richness inAspergillussectionFlavi, other region‐specific environmental and genetic parameters must also be considered.
Palladium(II) Complexes of Homologated Ferrocene Phosphanylether and Thioether Ligands
Authors: Zábranský Martin , Machara Aleš , Císařová Ivana , Štěpnička Petr
Published: October 2017

The reaction of [1′‐(diphenylphosphanyl)ferrocenyl]methanol/borane (1:1) with in situ formed N,N,N′,N′,S‐pentamethylisothiouronium iodide and sodium hydride, followed by removal of the borane protecting group with 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, afforded 1‐(diphenylphosphanyl)‐1′‐[(methylthio)methyl]ferrocene (3) as a new, homologated, hybrid phosphanylferrocene ligand. Compound 3 and the congeneric phosphanyl ether 2 were studied as ligands in PdII complexes. When treated with [PdCl2(MeCN)2] in a Pd/ligand ratio of 1:1, compound 3 furnished a mixture of two Pd complexes, including the ligand‐bridged dimer [{µ(P,S)‐3}PdCl2]2 (6), which was structurally characterized. Upon increasing the amount of ligand to 2 equiv., a similar reaction produced the bis(phosphane) complex [PdCl2(3‐κP)2] (7). Bridge‐cleavage reactions of the dipalladium complex [(LNC)Pd(µ‐Cl)]2 {LNC = 2‐[(dimethylamino‐κN)methyl]phenyl‐κC1} with donors 3 and 2 proceeded in a uniform manner to give the corresponding phosphane complexes [(LNC)PdCl(3‐κP)] (8) and [(LNC)PdCl(2‐κP)] (9). Conversely, removing the Pd‐bonded chloride from these complexes with AgClO4 generated the bis(chelate) complex [(LNC)Pd(3‐κ2P,S)] (10) and the aqua complex [(LNC)Pd(H2O)(2‐κP)] (11), respectively, both of which could be converted back into their precursors by adding Bu4NCl. The structures of the complexes 6–11 (some in solvated form) were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis.
Silver‐Induced Cα(sp3)–H Activation of Benzylamines Followed by [1,5]‐ versus [1,3]‐Rearrangement: A Strategy towards the Regioselective Synthesis of Spiro‐Dihydropyrroles
Authors: Mondal Animesh , Mukhopadhyay Chhanda
Published: October 2017

For the first time in pyrrole chemistry, silver‐mediated Cα(sp3)–H bond activation of benzylamines followed by [1,5]‐ versus [1,3]‐rearrangement towards the regioselective synthesis of spiro‐dihydropyrrole derivatives has been achieved. The reaction proceeds through cleavage of the benzylamine C–N bond promoted by the crucial silver carbonate followed by a regioselective [1,5]‐rearrangement with dialkyl but‐2‐ynedioate in the presence of isatin or N‐methylisatin. Equally, N‐substituted isatin with benzyl, allyl, ethyl, propyl, and n‐butyl substituents proceeds through an alternate [1,3]‐rearrangement strategy. The study highlights the recycling of silver species and for selective use in oxidative C–N and C–C coupling reactions.
The Science Behind the Academy for Eating Disorders' Nine Truths About Eating Disorders
Authors: Schaumberg Katherine , Welch Elisabeth , Breithaupt Lauren , Hübel Christopher , Baker Jessica H. , Munn‐Chernoff Melissa A. , Yilmaz Zeynep , Ehrlich Stefan , Mustelin Linda , Ghaderi Ata , Hardaway Andrew J. , Bulik‐Sullivan Emily C. , Hedman Anna M. , Jangmo Andreas , Nilsson Ida A.K. , Wiklund Camilla , Yao Shuyang , Seidel Maria , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: October 2017

Objective

In 2015, the Academy for Eating Disorders collaborated with international patient, advocacy, and parent organizations to craft the ‘Nine Truths About Eating Disorders’. This document has been translated into over 30 languages and has been distributed globally to replace outdated and erroneous stereotypes about eating disorders with factual information. In this paper, we review the state of the science supporting the ‘Nine Truths’.

Methods

The literature supporting each of the ‘Nine Truths’ was reviewed, summarized and richly annotated.

Results

Most of the ‘Nine Truths’ arise from well‐established foundations in the scientific literature. Additional evidence is required to further substantiate some of the assertions in the document. Future investigations are needed in all areas to deepen our understanding of eating disorders, their causes and their treatments.

Conclusions

The ‘Nine Truths About Eating Disorders’ is a guiding document to accelerate global dissemination of accurate and evidence‐informed information about eating disorders. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Predictors of survival after total laryngectomy for recurrent/persistent laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Birkeland Andrew C. , Beesley Lauren , Bellile Emily , Rosko Andrew J. , Hoesli Rebecca , Chinn Steven B. , Shuman Andrew G. , Prince Mark E. , Wolf Gregory T. , Bradford Carol R. , Brenner J. Chad , Spector Matthew E.
Published: September 2017

Background

Total laryngectomy remains the treatment of choice for recurrent/persistent laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) after radiotherapy (RT) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT). However, despite attempts at aggressive surgical salvage, survival in this cohort remains suboptimal.

Methods

A prospectively maintained single‐institution database was queried for patients undergoing total laryngectomy for recurrent/persistent laryngeal SCC after initial RT/CRT between 1998 and 2015(n = 244). Demographic, clinical, and survival data were abstracted. The Kaplan‐Meier survival curves and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated.

Results

Five‐year overall survival (OS) was 49%. Five‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) was 58%. Independent predictors of OS included severe comorbidity (Adult Comorbidity Evaluation‐27 [ACE‐27] scale; HR 3.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.56‐9.06), and positive recurrent clinical nodes (HR 2.91; 95% CI 1.74‐4.88).

Conclusion

Severe comorbidity status is the strongest predictor of OS, suggesting that increased attention to mitigating competing risks to health is critical. These data may inform a risk prediction model to allow for focused shared decision making, preoperative health optimization, and patient selection for adjuvant therapies.
Phase I study of induction chemotherapy with afatinib, ribavirin, and weekly carboplatin and paclitaxel for stage IVA/IVB human papillomavirus‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer
Authors: Dunn Lara A. , Fury Matthew G. , Sherman Eric J. , Ho Alan A. , Katabi Nora , Haque Sofia S. , Pfister David G.
Published: September 2017

Background

The human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 oncoprotein enhances the oncogenic potential of ErbB proteins in HPV‐related malignancies. This phase I study evaluates the addition of afatinib, an ErbB family inhibitor, and ribavirin to paclitaxel and carboplatin induction chemotherapy in HPV‐associated, locally advanced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

This dose escalation study included 2 doses of oral afatinib: 30 and 40 mg daily. Ribavirin dosing was weight based. Paclitaxel (80 mg/m2) and carboplatin (area under the curve [AUC] 1.5) were administered on days 1 and 8 of each 21‐day cycle. After 3 cycles, patients were removed from protocol to receive definitive treatment.

Results

Among 10 patients, there were no dose‐limiting toxicities. Six patients (67%) had unconfirmed objective partial responses. The 2‐year progression‐free survival rate was 75%.

Conclusion

Afatinib, ribavirin, paclitaxel, and carboplatin induction chemotherapy is safe and well tolerated. The phase II recommended dose of afatinib is 40 mg oral daily in this combination regimen.
Risk of depressive disorder among patients with head and neck cancer: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Fan Chao‐Yueh , Chao Hsing‐Lung , Lin Chun‐Shu , Huang Wen‐Yen , Chen Chang‐Ming , Lin Kuen‐Tze , Lin Cheng‐Li , Kao Chia‐Hung
Published: September 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence and risk of depressive disorder among patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

We identified 48 548 patients from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan who were newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer between 2000 and 2010. Each patient was randomly frequency‐matched with an individual without head and neck cancer, based on index year, sex, age, occupation category, urbanization level, monthly income, and comorbidities. The Cox proportional Registry of Catastrophic Illnesses Patient Database regression analysis was performed to estimate the effect of head and neck cancer on the risk of depressive disorder.

Results

Patients with head and neck cancer had a significantly higher risk of depressive disorder than the matched cohort (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 3.32; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.05‐3.61), with the highest risk seen in the hypopharynx and oropharynx.

Conclusion

Patients with head and neck cancer had >3 times the incidence of depressive disorder, relative to the comparison group. Psychological evaluation and support are essential in head and neck cancer survivors.
Serum parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase as predictors of calcium requirements after total parathyroidectomy for hypocalcemia in secondary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Ge Pingjiang , Liu Shuangxin , Sheng Xiaoli , Li Sijia , Xu Mimi , Jiang Jie , Chen Shaohua
Published: September 2017

Background

To prevent hypocalcemia, this study examined the efficiency of a calcium supplement formula guided by predicted calcium requirement in patients with renal failure after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation.

Methods

In the first phase, a protocol was followed whereby intravenous calcium gluconate was repeatedly titrated based on serum calcium levels in 22 patients with parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation. In the second phase, the first equation protocol was applied in 74 patients with parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation and revised.

Results

There is a significant correlation between the postoperative amount of calcium requirement and preoperative serum alkaline phosphatase level (r = 0.442; P < .001) and parathyroid hormone level (PTH; r = 0.889; P < .001). For prediction of insufficient calcium supplement, the cutoff point of PTH and alkaline phosphatase level values were calculated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and modified equations were developed by regression analysis.

Conclusion

The preoperative PTH and alkaline phosphatase levels can predict postoperative calcium requirements, such that equations of calcium supplement allow the management of hypocalcemia efficiently in patients on dialysis after parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation.
From ion exchange resins to polymer‐supported reagents: an evolution of critical variables
Authors: Alexandratos Spiro D
Published: September 2017

The concept of immobilizing ligands onto cross‐linked polymer supports is presented as an evolution of a concept that begins with ion exchange resins and evolves into ion‐selective polymers, polymer‐supported catalysts, and the general area of polymer‐supported reagents. Each of the four categories of polymers is defined by a set of major variables {electrostatic attraction (for ion exchange resins); steric, geometric, and electronic factors (for ion‐selective polymers); attracting and orienting reactants, and stabilizing the transition state (for polymer‐supported catalysts); and binding reactants with weak or strong forces (for polymer‐supported reagents)} and of minor variables {pH, concentration, competing ions, counterions, ionic strength, hydrophilic/hydrophobic interactions, hydration energies, and polymer crosslink level}. The rational design of each category will require identifying the relationships between major and minor variables and applying the principles inherent to complexity science will be an important focus of future research. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Racial and ethnic disparities in a national cohort of ampullary cancer patients
Authors: Nassour Ibrahim , Mokdad Ali A. , Minter Rebecca M. , Polanco Patricio M. , Augustine Mathew M. , Mansour John C. , Porembka Matthew R. , Wang Sam C.
Published: October 2017

Background and Objectives

Racial and ethnic variations have been described in the different malignancies, but no such data exists for ampullary cancer. The aim of this study was to present an updated report on the epidemiology, treatment patterns, and survival of a national cohort of ampullary cancer patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with ampullary cancer between 2004 and 2014 were identified in the National Cancer Database. Overall survival was estimated and compared between racial/ethnic groups using the log‐rank test.

Results

A total of 14 879 patients were identified; 78% of the patients were White, 9% Hispanic, 8% Black, and 5% Asian. We noted significant differences in disease presentation, socioeconomic status, and outcomes. Blacks had the lowest median overall survival at 18.9 months followed by Whites at 23.9 months, Hispanics at 32.7 months, and Asians at 37.4 months. On a multivariate Cox proportional‐hazards model, being Black was associated with worse survival compared to being White while being Asian and Hispanic were associated with better survival.

Conclusions

Overall survival of ampullary cancer patients was independently associated with race and ethnicity. Further studies are needed to clarify whether these disparities are primarily due to socioeconomic status or biologic factors.
Properties and characteristics of polylactide blends: Synergistic combination of poly(butylene succinate) and flame retardant
Authors: Suparanon Tunsuda , Phusunti Neeranuch , Phetwarotai Worasak
Published: October 2017

A study on the influence of flame‐retardant types, poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) contents, and combination of flame retardant and PBS on the mechanical, thermal, morphological, and flame retardancy properties of polylactide (PLA) and PLA/PBS blends was investigated. Blending of PLA, PBS, and flame retardant was prepared by a twin screw extruder. Tricresyl phosphate (TCP) and montmorillonite (MMT) were used as a flame retardant, whereas PBS acted as a flexible material for enhancing the fire resistance and toughness of PLA, respectively. The results revealed that the introducing of TCP and MMT greatly improved the impact strength of the PLA. The impact toughness of PLA blends with 20 wt% of PBS increased to about 244% that of neat PLA. The addition of flame retardants markedly improved the limiting oxygen index of PLA from 18.0% to 30.1% and 24.3% for the blends containing TCP and MMT. The V‐0 rating in UL‐94 testing was achieved with PLA/TCP blend. Elongation at break, impact toughness, and thermal stability of PLA significantly increased with the increment of PBS concentration. The synergistic effect of flame retardant and PBS afforded the PLA blends with outstanding increase of impact resistance. Furthermore, the flame retardant of TCP in the system not only affected dripping behavior and total flame time of PLA/PBS blends but also improved limiting oxygen index values due to the forming of char layer and inhibiting of burning mechanism.
Origins and structure of chloroplastic and mitochondrial plant protoporphyrinogen oxidases: implications for the evolution of herbicide resistance
Authors: Dayan Franck E , Barker Abigail , Tranel Patrick J
Published: October 2017

Protoporphyrinogen IX oxidase (PPO)‐inhibiting herbicides are effective tools to control a broad spectrum of weeds, including those that have evolved resistance to glyphosate. Their utility is being threatened by the appearance of biotypes that are resistant to PPO inhibitors. While the chloroplastic PPO1 isoform is thought to be the primary target of PPO herbicides, evolved resistance mechanisms elucidated to date are associated with changes to the mitochondrial PPO2 isoform, suggesting that the importance of PPO2 has been underestimated. Our investigation of the evolutionary and structural biology of plant PPOs provides some insight into the potential reasons why PPO2 is the preferred target for evolution of resistance. The most common target‐site mutation imparting resistance involved the deletion of a key glycine codon. The genetic environment that facilitates this deletion is apparently only present in the gene encoding PPO2 in a few species. Additionally, both species with this mutation (Amaranthus tuberculatus and Amaranthus palmeri) have dual targeting of PPO2 to both the chloroplast and the mitochondria, which might be a prerequisite to impart herbicide resistance. The most recent target‐site mutations have substituted a key arginine residue involved in stabilizing the substrate in the catalytic domain of PPO2. This arginine is highly conserved across all plant PPOs, suggesting that its substitution could be equally likely on PPO1 and PPO2, yet it has only occurred on PPO2, underscoring the importance of this isoform for the evolution of herbicide resistance. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Grafting on resistant interstocks reduces scion susceptibility to pear psylla, Cacopsylla bidens
Authors: Shaltiel‐Harpaz Liora , Gerchman Yoram , Ibdah Mwafaq , Kedoshim Rike , Rachmany Dor , Hatib Kamel , Bar‐Ya'akov Irit , Soroker Victoria , Holland Doron
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Pear psylla is a major obstacle to efficient integrated pest management in pear orchards in Israel and around the world. We used two accessions with natural resistance to pear psylla Cacopsylla bidens (Šulc) – Py.760‐261 (760) and Py.701‐202 (701), both apparently of Pyrus communis L. origin – as interstock grafts to confer psylla resistance to the commercially important ‘Spadona Estiva’ (Pyrus communis) scion (Spadona) cultivar. The interaction of the interstocks with quince (Cydonia oblong Mill.) and Pyrus betulifolia Bunge rootstocks was also tested.

RESULTS

Usage of Py.760‐261 (760) and Py.701‐202 (701) as interstocks for the psylla‐sensitive Spadona resulted in a five‐fold decrease in the C. bidens population, apparently as a consequence of antibiosis affecting nymph survival. Additionally, psylla survival was negatively correlated with the interstock length and amount of foliage. The yield and fruit quality of Spadona grafted on the ‘701’ interstock equaled or even exceeded those of the control in fruit quantity, fruit size and soluble solids content, especially on P. betulifolia rootstock.

CONCLUSION

Susceptibility to pear psylla decreased significantly following grafting of commercial Spadona on resistant interstock. This is the first demonstration of increased resistance to pear psylla conferred by the use of resistant interstock in pear trees and among the few examples demonstrating transfer of resistance to insects from the interstock in fruit trees. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Robust observer design for uncertain one‐sided Lipschitz systems with disturbances
Authors: Nguyen Cuong M. , Pathirana Pubudu N. , Trinh Hieu
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we study the robust observer design problem for a class of uncertain one‐sided Lipschitz systems with disturbances. Not only the system matrices but also the nonlinear functions are assumed to be uncertain. The nominal models of nonlinearities are assumed to satisfy both the one‐sided Lipschitz condition and the quadratically inner‐bounded condition. By utilizing a novel approach, our observer designs are robust against unknown nonlinear uncertainties and system and measurement noises. The new approach also relaxes some conservativeness in related existing results, ie, less conservative observer design conditions are obtained. Furthermore, the problem of designing reduced‐order observers is considered in case the output measurement is not subject to uncertainty and disturbance. Two examples are provided to show the efficiency and advantages of our results over existing works.
Toward an integrated theory of strategy
Authors: Zollo Maurizio , Minoja Mario , Coda Vittorio
Published: October 2017

Research summary:We develop an integrative approach to the study of strategic management in a four‐step logical sequence. First, we discuss one of the rare conceptual frameworks of integrated firm strategy introduced by Coda (1984). Second, we focus on competitive, growth, and stakeholder strategies and identify four integrative mechanisms underlying the creation of joint outcomes from the combination of different strategic choices. Third, we study how these mechanisms might allow specific binary combinations of strategic choices to create higher levels of value for stakeholders. Lastly, we study the likelihood of alternative three‐way bundles of strategies to generate the highest expected value. This analysis identifies two bundles of strategic decisions that can potentially maximize performance outcomes.

Managerial summary:Our integrative approach to strategic management can potentially contribute to the improvement of managerial decision making in three main ways. First, by raising managers’ awareness that decisions in different strategic domains—e.g., competitive, growth, and stakeholder strategies —produce joint effects on value created for stakeholders and, thus, should be selected as an internally coherent bundle. Second, by identifying the factors that influence different strategic decisions and the consequent production of joint results. Some of these factors can be directly learned and leveraged by managers to shape a more internally coherent and effective portfolio of strategic decisions. Third, by proposing specific bundles of internally coherent choices that might provide useful reference points within the context of the three strategies considered.
Productive HBV infection of well-differentiated,
hNTCP-expressing human hepatoma-derived (Huh7) cells
Authors: Zhou Ming , Zhao Kaitao , Yao Yongxuan , Yuan Yifei , Pei Rongjuan , Wang Yun , Chen Jizheng , Hu Xue , Zhou Yuan , Chen Xinwen , Wu Chunchen
Published: October 2017

Feasible and effective cell models for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are
required for investigating the complete lifecycle of this virus, including the early
steps of viral entry. Resistance to dimethyl sulfoxide/polyethylene glycol
(DMSO/PEG), hNTCP expression, and a differentiated state are the limiting factors
for successful HBV infection models. In the present study, we used a hepatoma cell
line (Huh7DhNTCP) to overcome these limiting factors so
that it exhibits excellent susceptibility to HBV infection. To achieve this goal,
different hepatoma cell lines were tested with 2.5% DMSO / 4% PEG8000, and one
resistant cell line (Huh7D) was used to construct a stable hNTCP-expressing cell
line (Huh7DhNTCP) using a recombinant lentivirus system.
Then, the morphological characteristics and differentiation molecular markers of
Huh7DhNTCP cells with or without DMSO treatment were
characterized. Finally, the susceptibility of Huh7DhNTCP
cells to HBV infection was assessed. Our results showed that Huh7D cells were
resistant to 2.5% DMSO / 4% PEG8000, whereas the others were not.
Huh7DhNTCP cells were established to express a high
level of hNTCP compared to liver extracts, and Huh7DhNTCP
cells rapidly transformed into a non-dividing, well-differentiated polarized
phenotype under DMSO treatment. Huh7DhNTCP cells fully
supported the entire lifecycle of HBV infection. This cell culture system will be
useful for the analysis of host-virus interactions, which should facilitate the
discovery of antiviral drugs and vaccines.
Getting angry matters: Going beyond perspective taking and empathic concern to understand bystanders' behavior in bullying
Authors: Pozzoli Tiziana , Gini Gianluca , Thornberg Robert
Published: September 2017

The present study examined the relations between different empathic dimensions and bystanders' behavior in bullying. Specifically, the indirect effects of empathic concern and perspective taking via empathic anger on defending and passive bystanding were tested in a sample of Italian young adolescents (N = 398; Mage = 12 years, 3 months, 47.2% girls). Path analysis confirmed the direct and indirect effects, via empathic anger, of empathic concern and perspective taking on bystanders' behavior, with the exception of the direct association between perspective taking and passive bystanding that was not significant. Our findings suggest that considering empathic anger together with empathic concern and perspective taking could help researchers to better understand the links between empathic dispositions and bystanders' behavior in bullying.
Identification and Functional Verification of MicroRNAs in the Obese Rat With Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Bai Yunlong , Zhang Liangshuan , Jiang Yanan , Ju Jiaming , Li Guiyang , Xu Juan , Jiang Xing , Zhang Peng , Lang Linchuan , Sadkovaya Olga , Glybochko Peter V. , Zhang Wei , Yang Baofeng
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Obesity is a potential risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the expression of genes involved in various pathophysiologic processes.

Aim

To identify the miRNA profile in the corpus cavernosum (CC) of obese rats with ED and elucidate the potential function of miRNA in the pathogenesis of ED.

Methods

Obesity was induced in rats by a high-fat diet. After the erectile function test, experimental animals were divided into two groups: obese rats with ED and obese rats with normal erectile function. The CCs from these rats were collected for miRNA microarray analysis. The results were verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Subsequently, the targets of differentially expressed miRNAs were predicted. Bioinformatics analysis was applied to predict the functions of differentially expressed miRNAs in ED. Apomorphine-induced penile erection and intracavernous pressure measurements were used to evaluate the effects of miRNA on the erectile function of rats.

Main Outcome Measures

MiRNA expression in the CC of obese rats with ED and those with normal erectile function was detected by miRNA microarray analysis. Candidate miRNAs were validated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict the functions of miRNAs. Apomorphine-induced penile erection and intracavernous pressure measurements were used to reflect the erectile function of rats.

Results

Sixty-eight miRNAs were differentially expressed in the CC of obese rats with ED (≥1.5-fold change). The real-time polymerase chain reaction results were consistent with the miRNA microarray analysis results. Specifically, miR-328a was significantly upregulated in rats with ED compared with control rats and was chosen for functional evaluation in the pathogenesis of ED. Overexpression of miR-328a noticeably decreased the erectile response to apomorphine and the expression of heme oxygenase-1.

Conclusion

MiRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity-related ED. MiR-328a might facilitate the induction of ED.
Low-Level Laser Therapy for the Treatment of Provoked Vestibulodynia—A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Lev-Sagie Ahinoam , Kopitman Asia , Brzezinski Amnon
Published: September 2017

Background

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an emerging medical technology in which non-thermal laser irradiation is applied to treat pain. Because LLLT has been found effective in treating various pain syndromes without known side effects, we conducted a study evaluating the effect of LLLT on provoked vestibulodynia (PVD), a complex sexual pain disorder characterized by pain confined to the vulvar vestibule in response to contact or pressure.

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of LLLT for PVD in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial.

Methods

Patients with PVD were randomly assigned to receive treatment with LLLT or sham treatment. Patients were treated twice weekly for 6 weeks, for a total of 12 LLLT or placebo sessions. Patients who showed improvement after LLLT were followed for 1 year by clinical pain report and Q-tip examination.

Outcomes

Change in pain scores obtained in response to the Q-tip test, clinical pain report, visual analog scale score, pain with tampon insertion, daily pain intensity, intercourse pain intensity, frequency of intercourse, and a battery of quality-of-life measures.

Results

Thirty-four patients with PVD participated, 18 received LLLT and 16 received placebo. In the clinical pain report at study completion, 14 of 18 patients (78%) receiving LLLT reported improvement compared with 7 of 16 (44%) in the placebo group (P = .042). This effect was not apparent in other outcome measurements. None of the patients reported side effects during the study. At 1-year follow-up, eight patients (57%) reported lasting improvement.

Clinical Implications

Larger studies with various treatment protocols are needed to define which patients can benefit from LLLT therapy.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths include a placebo-controlled, double-blinded design, measurement of a large number of multidimensional end points, and a follow-up period of 1 year. Limitations include the small number of patients recruited, no improvement in measurable parameters, a high improvement rate in the placebo group, the absence of use of validated questionnaires, and the lack of evaluation of psychological and interpersonal factors that might have influenced the results.

Conclusions

Given the results of this pilot study, LLLT cannot currently be recommended as a treatment for PVD. Further studies with a larger population, various treatment protocols, and evaluation of LLLT in different subgroups of PVD are needed to define which patients can benefit from this therapy.
Delusions
Authors: McKenna Peter
Published: October 2017

Delusions, in their many different manifestations, are central to the concepts of madness and psychosis. Yet what causes them remains in many ways a complete mystery. McKenna's Delusions is the first comprehensive attempt to tackle one of the most arresting phenomena in psychiatry: an in-depth and critical review of what delusions are, the forms they can take and how they might be explained from both psychological and biological perspectives. Delusions covers key topics such as the clinical features of delusions, the disorders they are seen in, other oddities that resemble them in both health and disease, and the different approaches that have been taken to try to understand them. It is an essential book for psychiatrists and psychologists who work with delusional patients, as well as being of interest to neuroscientists engaged in research into major psychiatric disorders.
Green’s functions for Rossby waves
Authors: Kloosterziel R. C. , Maas L. R. M.
Published: October 2017

Compact solutions are presented for planetary, non-divergent, barotropic Rossby waves generated by (i) an impulsive point source and (ii) a sustained point source of curl of wind stress. Previously, only cumbersome integral expressions were known, rendering them practically useless. Our simple expressions allow for immediate numerical visualization/animation and further mathematical analysis.
Parental nutritional programming and a reminder during juvenile stage affect growth, lipid metabolism and utilisation in later developmental stages of a marine teleost, the gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Turkmen Serhat , Zamorano Maria J. , Fernández-Palacios Hipólito , Hernández-Cruz Carmen M. , Montero Daniel , Robaina Lidia , Izquierdo Marisol
Published: October 2017

Nutrition during periconception and early development can modulate metabolic routes to prepare the offspring for adverse conditions through a process known as nutritional programming. In gilthead sea bream, replacement of fish oil (FO) with linseed oil (LO) in broodstock diets improves growth in the 4-month-old offspring challenged with low-FO and low-fishmeal (FM) diets for 1 month. The present study further investigated the effects of broodstock feeding on the same offspring when they were 16 months old and were challenged for a second time with the low-FM and low-FO diet for 2 months. The results showed that replacement of parental moderate-FO feeding with LO, combined with juvenile feeding at 4 months old with low-FM and low-FO diets, significantly (P<0·05) improved offspring growth and feed utilisation of low-FM/FO diets even when they were 16 months old: that is, when they were on the verge of their first reproductive season. Liver fatty acid composition was significantly affected by broodstock or reminder diets as well as by their interaction. Moreover, the reduction of long-chain PUFA and increase inα-linolenic acid and linoleic acid in broodstock diets lead to a significant down-regulation of hepatic lipoprotein lipase (P<0·001) and elongation of very long-chain fatty acids protein 6 (P<0·01). Besides, fatty acid desaturase 2 values were positively correlated to hepatic levels of 18 : 4n-3, 18 : 3n-6, 20 : 5n-3, 22 : 6n-3 and 22 : 5n-6. Thus, this study demonstrated the long-term nutritional programming of gilthead sea bream through broodstock feeding, the effect of feeding a ‘reminder’ diet during juvenile stages to improve utilisation of low-FM/FO diets and fish growth as well as the regulation of gene expression along the fish’s life-cycle.
Are large dinners associated with excess weight, and does eating a smaller dinner achieve greater weight loss? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fong Mackenzie , Caterson Ian D. , Madigan Claire D.
Published: October 2017

There are suggestions that large evening meals are associated with greater BMI. This study reviewed systematically the association between evening energy intake and weight in adults and aimed to determine whether reducing evening intake achieves weight loss. Databases searched were MEDLINE, PubMed, Cinahl, Web of Science, Cochrane Library of Clinical Trials, EMBASE and SCOPUS. Eligible observational studies investigated the relationship between BMI and evening energy intake. Eligible intervention trials compared weight change between groups where the proportion of evening intake was manipulated. Evening intake was defined as energy consumed during a certain time – for example 18.00–21.00 hours – or self-defined meal slots – that is ‘dinner’. The search yielded 121 full texts that were reviewed for eligibility by two independent reviewers. In all, ten observational studies and eight clinical trials were included in the systematic review with four and five included in the meta-analyses, respectively. Four observational studies showed a positive association between large evening intake and BMI, five showed no association and one showed an inverse relationship. The meta-analysis of observational studies showed a non-significant trend between BMI and evening intake (P=0·06). The meta-analysis of intervention trials showed no difference in weight change between small and large dinner groups (−0·89 kg; 95 % CI −2·52, 0·75, P=0·29). This analysis was limited by significant heterogeneity, and many trials had an unknown or high risk of bias. Recommendations to reduce evening intake for weight loss cannot be substantiated by clinical evidence, and more well-controlled intervention trials are needed.
Hedge Fund Return Dependence: Model Misspecification or Liquidity Spirals?
Authors: Sias Richard , Turtle Harry J. , Zykaj Blerina
Published: October 2017

We test whether model misspecification or liquidity spirals primarily explain the observed excess dependence in filtered (for economic fundamentals) hedge fund index returns and the links between volatility, liquidity shocks, and hedge fund return clustering. Evidence supports the model misspecification hypothesis: i) hedge fund filtered return clustering is symmetric, ii) filtered Short Bias fund returns exhibit negative dependence with filtered returns for other hedge fund types, iii) negative liquidity shocks are associated with clustering in both tails and market volatility subsumes the role of negative liquidity shocks, and iv) these same patterns appear in size-sorted equity portfolios.
Assessing distress in the community: psychometric properties and crosswalk comparison of eight measures of psychological distress
Authors: Batterham P. J. , Sunderland M. , Slade T. , Calear A. L. , Carragher N.
Published: October 2017

Background

Many measures are available for measuring psychological distress in the community. Limited research has compared these scales to identify the best performing tools. A common metric for distress measures would enable researchers and clinicians to equate scores across different measures. The current study evaluated eight psychological distress scales and developed crosswalks (tables/figures presenting multiple scales on a common metric) to enable scores on these scales to be equated.

Methods

An Australian online adult sample (N = 3620, 80% female) was administered eight psychological distress measures: Patient Health Questionnaire-4, Kessler-10/Kessler-6, Distress Questionnaire-5 (DQ5), Mental Health Inventory-5, Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25), Self-Report Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20) and Distress Thermometer. The performance of each measure in identifying DSM-5 criteria for a range of mental disorders was tested. Scale fit to a unidimensional latent construct was assessed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Finally, crosswalks were developed using Item Response Theory.

Results

The DQ5 had optimal performance in identifying individuals meeting DSM-5 criteria, with adequate fit to a unidimensional construct. The HSCL-25 and SRQ-20 also had adequate fit but poorer specificity and/or sensitivity than the DQ5 in identifying caseness. The unidimensional CFA of the combined item bank for the eight scales showed acceptable fit, enabling the creation of crosswalk tables.

Conclusions

The DQ5 had optimal performance in identifying risk of mental health problems. The crosswalk tables developed in this study will enable rapid conversion between distress measures, providing more efficient means of data aggregation and a resource to facilitate interpretation of scores from multiple distress scales.
Effect of Pyroxasulfone Formulation on Dissipation from a Winter Wheat Field in Tennessee
Authors: Mueller Thomas C.
Published: October 2017

Field studies were conducted in 2014 and 2015 in Tennessee to examine pyroxasulfone dissipation under field conditions of winter wheat production. Three formulations were examined: (1) a single component active ingredient in an 85% dry flowable, (2) dry flowable formulation in combination of pyroxasulfone+flumioxazin, and (3) a liquid SC formulation of pyroxasulfone+carfentrazone. The liquid formulation is a suspo-emulsion. When averaged across the three studies, the DT 50 were 34.4, 30.2 and 29.9 d for pyroxasulfone plus carfentrazone, pyroxasulfone, and pyroxasulfone plus flumioxazin, respectively. These trends would indicate that formulation had little or no effect on pyroxasulfone dissipation in this experiment. Pyroxasulfone DT 50 in all studies ranged from a low of 15.4 d to a high of 53.3 d, and loss was more rapid under warm, moist conditions. These results indicate that pyroxasulfone would last long enough to provide residual weed control, but would not persist excessively to injure rotational crops.
Escherichia coli O157:H7 suppresses host autophagy and promotes epithelial adhesion via Tir-mediated and cAMP-independent activation of protein kinase A
Authors: Xue Yansong , Du Min , Sheng Haiqing , Hovde Carolyn J , Zhu Mei-Jun
Published: October 2017

Autophagy is a pivotal innate immune response that not only degrades cytosolic components, but also serves as one of the critical antimicrobial mechanisms eliminating intracellular pathogens. However, its role in host defense against extracellular pathogens is largely unknown. Here we showed that E. coli O157:H7 altered autophagy to evade host defense and facilitate adhesion. Enhancing host cell autophagy with tumor necrosis factor (TNF), host starvation or rapamycin reduced the adherence of E. coli O157:H7 to HT-29 cells. As a key regulator of autophagy, protein kinase A (PKA) was activated by E. coli O157:H7 infection. PKA inhibition by H89 abrogated E. coli O157:H7 inhibition of autophagy and prevented bacterial epithelial adhesion. Thus, PKA had a mediatory role in blocking autophagy and E. coli O157:H7 epithelial adhesion. Furthermore, deletion of translocated intimin receptor (tir) prevented PKA activation, whereas ectopic tir expression in a Δtir mutant strain restored its ability to activate PKA and inhibited autophagy in host cells. This indicated that Tir and PKA played pivotal roles in manipulating host autophagy during infection. Consistent with autophagy inhibition, E. coli O157:H7 infection inhibited endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in HT-29 cells, which was reversed by TNF, starvation, or H89 treatment. Additionally, E. coli O157:H7-induced PKA activation suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation and enhanced phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) signaling, thereby repressing autophagic signaling. Conversely, PKA inhibition prevented downregulation of ERK1/2 signaling due to E. coli O157:H7 infection. In summary, E. coli O157:H7 inhibited host autophagy via Tir-mediated PKA activation that favored bacterial persistence on intestinal epithelial cell surfaces.
Assessing inhibitors of mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase using a suite of pre-clinical discovery assays
Authors: Urban Daniel J. , Martinez Natalia J. , Davis Mindy I. , Brimacombe Kyle R. , Cheff Dorian M. , Lee Tobie D. , Henderson Mark J. , Titus Steven A. , Pragani Rajan , Rohde Jason M. , Liu Li , Fang Yuhong , Karavadhi Surendra , Shah Pranav , Lee Olivia W. , Wang Amy , McIver Andrew , Zheng Hongchao , Wang Xiaodong , Xu Xin , Jadhav Ajit , Simeonov Anton , Shen Min , Boxer Matthew B. , Hall Matthew D.
Published: October 2017

Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1 and IDH2) are key metabolic enzymes that are mutated in a variety of cancers to confer a gain-of-function activity resulting in the accumulation of an oncometabolite, D-2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG). Accumulation of 2-HG can result in epigenetic dysregulation and a block in cellular differentiation, suggesting these mutations play a role in neoplasia. Based on its potential as a cancer target, a number of small molecule inhibitors have been developed to specifically inhibit mutant forms of IDH (mIDH1 and mIDH2). We present a comprehensive suite of in vitro preclinical drug development assays that can be used as a tool-box to identify lead compounds for mIDH drug discovery programs, as well as what we believe is the most comprehensive publically available dataset on the top mIDH inhibitors. This involved biochemical, cell-based, and tier-one ADME techniques.