bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prehospital stroke scale (FAST PLUS Test) predicts patients with intracranial large vessel occlusion
Authors: Václavík Daniel , Bar Michal , Klečka Lukáš , Holeš David , Čábal Martin , Mikulík Robert
Published: August 2018

Background and Purpose

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is indicated for the treatment of large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke. MT should be provided as quickly as possible; therefore, a test identifying suspected LVO in the prehospitalization stage is needed to ensure direct transport to a comprehensive stroke center (CSC). We assume that patients with clinically severe hemiparesis have a high probability of LVO stroke. We modified the FAST test into the FAST PLUS test: The first part is the FAST test and the second part evaluates the presence of severe arm or leg motor deficit. This prospective multicenter study evaluates the specificity and sensitivity of the FAST PLUS test in detecting LVO stroke.

Methods

Paramedics were trained through e‐learning to conduct the FAST PLUS test.

All prehospital suspected stroke patients who were administered the FAST PLUS test were included. Demographics, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, brain computed tomography (CT), and CT angiography (CTA) were recorded. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and receiver operating curve (ROC) area for LVO were calculated.

Results

The study included 435 patients. LVO were found in 124 patients (28%). Sensitivity was 93%, specificity was 47%, PPV was 41%, NPV was 94%, and ROC area for ICA/MCA occlusion was 0.65. Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) was identified in 48 patients (11%).

Conclusion

We found that the FAST PLUS test had a high sensitivity for LVO stroke. Of the 435 patients, 41% were all directly transported to a CSC based on positive FAST PLUS test scores and were potential candidates for MT.
An in Vitro Biosynthesis of Sesquiterpenes Starting from Acetic Acid
Authors: Dirkmann Michael , Nowack Julia , Schulz Frank
Published: August 2018

The enzymatic synthesis of terpenes was investigated by using a cascade based on the mevalonic acid pathway. Suitable enzymes from all kingdoms of life were identified and combined to give rise to geosmin and patchoulol as representative compounds. The pathway was studied in three separate segments, which were subsequently combined in a ten‐step cascade plus added cofactor regeneration systems. The cascade delivers farnesyl pyrophosphate with >40 % conversion and cyclises it to sesquiterpenes with >90 % conversion.
Protonation of Nucleobases in Single‐ and Double‐Stranded DNA
Authors: González‐Olvera Julio C. , Durec Matúš , Marek Radek , Fiala Radovan , Morales‐García María del Rosario J. , González‐Jasso Eva , Pless Reynaldo C.
Published: August 2018

Single‐stranded model oligodeoxyribonucleotides, each containing a single protonatable base—cytosine, adenine, guanine, or 5‐methylcytosine—centrally located in a background of non‐protonatable thymine residues, were acid‐titrated in aqueous solution, with UV monitoring. The basicity of the central base was shown to depend on the type of the central base and its nearest neighbours and to rise with increasing oligonucleotide length and decreasing ionic strength of the solution. More complex model oligonucleotides, each containing a centrally located 5‐methylcytosine base, were comparatively evaluated in single‐stranded and double‐stranded form, by UV spectroscopy and high‐field NMR. The N3 protonation of the 5‐methylcytosine moiety in the double‐stranded case occurred at much lower pH, at which the duplex was already experiencing general dissociation, than in the single‐stranded case. The central guanine:5‐methylcytosine base pair remained intact up to this point, possibly due to an unusual alternative protonation on O2 of the 5‐methylcytosine moiety, already taking place at neutral or weakly basic pH, as indicated by UV spectroscopy, thus suggesting that 5‐methylcytosine sites in double‐stranded DNA might be protonated to a significant extent under physiological conditions.
Probing Backbone Hydrogen Bonds in Proteins by Amide‐to‐Ester Mutations
Authors: Sereikaitė Vita , Jensen Thomas M. T. , Bartling Christian R. O. , Jemth Per , Pless Stephan A. , Strømgaard Kristian
Published: August 2018

All proteins contain characteristic backbones formed of consecutive amide bonds, which can engage in hydrogen bonds. However, the importance of these is not easily addressed by conventional technologies that only allow for side‐chain substitutions. By contrast, technologies such as nonsense suppression mutagenesis and protein ligation allow for manipulation of the protein backbone. In particular, replacing the backbone amide groups with ester groups, that is, amide‐to‐ester mutations, is a powerful tool to examine backbone‐mediated hydrogen bonds. In this minireview, we showcase examples of how amide‐to‐ester mutations can be used to uncover pivotal roles of backbone‐mediated hydrogen bonds in protein recognition, folding, function, and structure.
Heterogeneity of microvesicles from cancer cell lines under inflammatory stimulation with TNF‐α
Authors: Gieseler Frank , Plattfaut Corinna , Quecke Tabea , Freund Annika , Ungefroren Hendrik , Ender Fanny
Published: August 2018

Microvesicles (MVs) represent a subgroup of extracellular vesicles (EVs) emerging from various cells by blebbing of their outer membrane. Therefore, they share features such as membrane composition and antigenicity with their parental cells. Released by many immune and tumor cells, MVs act as intercellular messengers, account for horizontal gene transfer and can activate the coagulation system. With the aim to investigate their relevance for tumor cell biology, we characterized MVs released by human tumor cell lines of various origins in the absence or presence of TNF‐α. After stimulation, we used the combination of low and high‐speed centrifugation to enrich MVs from cell culture supernatants. We analyzed the presentation of phosphatidylserine (PS) and tissue factor (TF) activity on the cell surface and investigated their potency to induce tumor cell migration. In all tumor cell lines, TNF‐α stimulation enhanced the release of MVs. While the expression of PS was universally increased, an elevated activity of procoagulant TF could be detected on MVs from lung, pancreatic, and colon carcinoma, but not from breast and ovarian cancer cell lines. Functionally, TNF‐α stimulation significantly increased the potency of MVs to induce tumor cell migration. In conclusion, inflammatory conditions promote the release of MVs with increased procoagulant activity from tumor cell lines in vitro. PS‐containing and TF‐expressing MVs may account for systemic activation of the coagulation system as seen in cancer patients and, since they induce tumor cell migration, they may serve as biomarkers for tumor progression.
Children of moderate‐ and high‐risk parents more likely to drink as teens
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2018

Young adults of parents — especially mothers — who drink at moderate‐ or high‐risk levels are more likely to drink alcohol than young adults of parents with lower alcohol consumption, researchers have found. At least part of the reason for this is earlier initiation by the youth, as well as a higher prevalence of association with deviant (alcohol‐using) peers.
Guided Lithium Deposition by Surface Micro‐Patterning of Lithium‐Metal Electrodes
Authors: Kim Yun‐Jung , Jin Hyun S. , Lee Dong‐Hyun , Choi Jaeho , Jo Wonhee , Noh Hyungjun , Lee Jinhong , Chu Hyunwon , Kwack Hobeom , Ye Fangmin , Lee Hongkyung , Ryou Myung‐Hyun , Kim Hee‐Tak
Published: August 2018

Uncontrolled lithium (Li) deposition has hampered the evolution of Li‐metal electrode‐based Li‐batteries. In this work, we report the differences of a guided Li deposition with a size change of the square hole micro‐patterns carved on the Li‐metal surface with two different dimensions using a simple stamping method. Li deposition is preferentially initiated on the top edge for the smaller pattern and on the bottom for the larger pattern. Although the two patterns lead to a more uniform utilization of the Li, the larger pattern shows a higher cycling stability within a LiFePO4/Li cell than that of the smaller one indicating that initiating the Li deposition from the bottom of the hole is more efficient in confining the deposited Li. Based on the impedance analysis of the compressed Li electrodes, we suggest that the guided Li deposition on the bottom of the hole is attributed to a large contrast in the resistance of native surface passivation layer between the top and hole surfaces. This improved understanding can further advance guided Li deposition induced by surface patterns for high performance Li‐metal batteries.
Transition‐Metal Oxides Anchored on Nitrogen‐Enriched Carbon Ribbons for High‐Performance Pseudocapacitors
Authors: Pang Yuanchao , Zhang Shuyang , Chen Sheng , Liang Jin , Li Mingyan , Ding Dawei , Ding Shujiang
Published: August 2018

Increasing demand for effective energy‐storage systems derived from low‐cost and ecofriendly raw materials has aroused wide concern. In this contribution, we propose nitrogen‐abundant amorphous micron‐sized carbon ribbons (AMCRs) originating from biomass raupo as a novel substrate due to their specific quasi 2D morphologies and outstanding dispersion ability. Owing to the innate nitrogen atoms on the surface of AMCRs, ultrathin binary and ternary metal oxide (NiO, CoO, and NiCo2O4) nanosheets can be uniformly developed under benign conditions. These three composites were separately fabricated as electrodes for supercapacitors in a three‐electrode system and exhibited favorable activities. Among them, the ternary metal oxide composites NiCo2O4@AMCRs delivered the supreme specific capacitance of 1691 F g−1 and best cycling stability (89 % capacity retention over 10,000 cycles). Moreover, symmetric supercapacitors (NiCo2O4@AMCRs//NiCo2O4@AMCRs) were assembled inside sleeve devices with 2 m KOH aqueous electrolyte, which demonstrated admirable cyclic stability (79.1 % capacity retention over 8,000 cycles), and an excellent energy density of 26 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 1.8 kW kg−1.
A Biomimetic Supramolecular Approach for Charge Transfer between Donor and Acceptor Chromophores with Aggregation‐Induced Emission
Authors: Chen Jing‐Yu , Kadam Gajanan , Gupta Akhil , Anuradha  , Bhosale Sheshanath V. , Zheng Fei , Zhou Chun‐Hua , Jia Bao‐Hua , Dalal Dipak S. , Li Jing‐Liang
Published: August 2018

Supramolecular assembly of chromophores with inherent resistance to aggregation‐induced self‐quenching is significant to applications such as chemical sensing and organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs). In this work, molecular gels with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) are constructed by simply coassembling AIE chromophores (electron donor or acceptor) with a nonfluorescent molecular gelator. The binary gels are fluorescent even at very low concentrations of the AIE chromophores, indicating that the rotation of their aromatic cores is restricted in the gel network. In tertiary gels, the fluorescence of the donor chromophore can be efficiently reduced by the acceptor chromophore through a combination of static and dynamic quenching process, via charge transfer from the donor to the acceptor. This work demonstrates a convenient approach to fabricate a supramolecular charge transfer system using an AIE donor and acceptor.
Efficient Capture of Organic Dyes and Crystallographic Snapshots by a Highly Crystalline Amino‐Acid‐Derived Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Mon Marta , Bruno Rosaria , Tiburcio Estefanía , Casteran Pierre‐Edouard , Ferrando‐Soria Jesús , Armentano Donatella , Pardo Emilio
Published: August 2018

The presence of residual organic dyes in water resources or wastewater treatment systems, derived mainly from effluents of different industries, is a major environmental problem with no easy solution. Herein, an ecofriendly, water‐stable metal–organic framework was prepared from a derivative of the natural amino acid l‐serine. Its functional channels are densely decorated with highly flexible l‐serine residues bearing hydroxyl groups. The presence of such a flexible and functional environment within the confined environment of the MOF leads to efficient removal of different organic dyes from water: Pyronin Y, Auramine O, Methylene Blue and Brilliant Green, as unveiled by unprecedented snapshots offered by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. This MOF enables highly efficient water remediation by capturing more than 90 % of dye content, even at very low concentrations such as 10 ppm, which is similar to those usually found in industrial wastewaters. Remarkably, the removal efficiency is improved in simulated contaminated mineral water with multiple dyes.
2‐Allyl‐ and Propargylamino‐dATPs for Site‐Specific Enzymatic Introduction of a Single Modification in the Minor Groove of DNA
Authors: Matyašovský Ján , Pohl Radek , Hocek Michal
Published: August 2018

A series of 2‐alkylamino‐2′‐deoxyadenosine triphosphates (dATP) was prepared and found to be substrates for the Therminator DNA polymerase, which incorporated only one modified nucleotide into the primer. Using a template encoding for two consecutive adenines, conditions were found for incorporation of either one or two modified nucleotides. In all cases, addition of a mixture of natural dNTPs led to primer extension resulting in site‐specific single modification of DNA in the minor groove. The allylamino‐substituted DNA was used for the thiol‐ene addition, whereas the propargylamino‐DNA for the CuAAC click reaction was used to label the DNA with a fluorescent dye in the minor groove. The approach was used to construct FRET probes for detection of oligonucleotides.
The determination of enantiomer composition of 1‐((3‐chlorophenyl)‐(phenyl)methyl) amine and 1‐((3‐chlorophenyl)(phenyl)‐methyl) urea (Galodif) by NMR spectroscopy, chiral HPLC, and polarimetry
Authors: Kuksenok Vera Yu. , Shtrykova Victoria V. , Filimonov Victor D. , Druganov Alexandr G. , Bondarev Alexandr A. , Stankevich Ksenia S.
Published: August 2018

For the first time, a method for enantiomer resolution of the anticonvulsant Galodif (1‐((3‐chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl) urea) by chiral HPLC was developed, whereas the enantiomeric composition of 1‐((3‐chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl) amine—precursor in Galodif synthesis—cannot be resolved by this method. However, starting 1‐((3‐chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl) amine quantitatively forms diastereomeric N‐((3‐chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl)‐1‐camphorsulfonamides in reaction with chiral (1R)‐(+)‐ or (1S)‐(−)‐camphor‐10‐sulfonyl chlorides. The diastereomeric ratio of obtained camphorsulfonamides can be easily determined by NMR 1H and 13C spectroscopy. The DFT calculations of specific rotation of Galodif enantiomers showed good agreement with experimental data. The absolute configuration of enantiomers was proposed for the first time.
The greater occipital nerve and its spinal and brainstem afferent projections: A stereological and tract‐tracing study in the rat
Authors: García‐Magro Nuria , Martin Yasmina B. , Negredo Pilar , Avendaño Carlos
Published: August 2018

The neuromodulation of the greater occipital nerve (GON) has proved effective to treat chronic refractory neurovascular headaches, in particular migraine and cluster headache. Moreover, animal studies have shown convergence of cervical and trigeminal afferents on the same territories of the upper cervical and lower medullary dorsal horn (DH), the so‐called trigeminocervical complex (TCC), and recent studies in rat models of migraine and craniofacial neuropathy have shown that GON block or stimulation alter nociceptive processing in TCC. The present study examines in detail the anatomy of GON and its central projections in the rat applying different tracers to the nerve and quantifying its ultrastructure, the ganglion neurons subserving GON, and their innervation territories in the spinal cord and brainstem. With considerable intersubject variability in size, GON contains on average 900 myelinated and 3,300 unmyelinated axons, more than 90% of which emerge from C2 ganglion neurons. Unmyelinated afferents from GON innervates exclusively laminae I‐II of the lateral DH, mostly extending along segments C2–3. Myelinated fibers distribute mainly in laminae I and III‐V of the lateral DH between C1 and C6 and, with different terminal patterns, in medial parts of the DH at upper cervical segments, and ventrolateral rostral cuneate, paratrigeminal, and marginal part of the spinal caudal and interpolar nuclei. Sparse projections also appear in other locations nearby. These findings will help to better understand the bases of sensory convergence on spinomedullary systems, a critical pathophysiological factor for pain referral and spread in severe painful craniofacial disorders.
Research on traffic sign detection algorithm based on deep learning
Authors: Wang Quan , Fu Weiping
Published: August 2018

Due to the respective interests among the main bodies of the supply chain, it is necessary to introduce some mechanisms to coordinate the problem of decrease of detection rate caused by the interconnection of closed‐loop traffic signs. This paper proposes a traffic sign detection algorithm based on deep learning. It uses the red, green, and blue (RGB) normalization‐based color detection algorithm and regional feature decision criteria to automatically identify the multi‐sign interconnection candidate regions and perform edge smoothing and contour tracking for the extracted target regions. It uses deep learner based on global and local curvature characteristics to make traffic sign detection on the extracted contours, and, according to judgment criteria of convexity and concavity of corners as well as matching conditions of detection point pairs, extracts the detection point pairs between the signs from the corners. It seeks the detection lines between detection point pairs and realizes the final detection of signs. The experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Compared with the existing sign detection algorithm based on watershed transformation and the improved adaptive detection algorithm, it overcomes the sign over‐detection problem and improves the overall performances of the sign detection.
Improved group‐oriented proofs of cloud storage in IoT setting
Authors: Wang Xu An , Liu Yudong , Zhang Jindan , Yang Xiaoyuan , Zhang Minqing
Published: August 2018

In the IoT setting, many resource constrained devices outsource their collected data to the Cloud. To ensure the outsourced data has not been lost, these devices need some mechanism to check the integrity of their data. Furthermore, in some settings, ad hoc devices need to act as a group, and in this group, any member may require to verify the integrity of outsourced cloud storage. Aiming at solving this problem, in AISACCS'15, first proposed the concept of group‐based proofs of storage (GPoS). In GPoS, a group manager can authorize data owners as group members, and then these group members can outsource files to the cloud storage server; later, each member can verify the integrity of the outsourced cloud storage. They also give a concrete construction of GPoS. Unfortunately, in this paper, we find their scheme is not secure. Recently, also proposed a dynamic group‐based integrity auditing protocol for outsrouced cloud storage; we also show their scheme is not secure either. Finally, we give an improved scheme and roughly analysis to its security and performance.
Statistics for Immunologists
Authors: Skinner Jeff
Published: August 2018

Statistical tests and graphs are an important part of any immunological research publication or presentation, but not all immunologists have the statistical expertise to choose the best methods to evaluate and represent their experiments. These protocols provide a brief overview of the statistical methods most relevant to immunology researchers, so they can either analyze their own data or better understand their statistician collaborators. Protocols cover the basics of t‐tests, ANOVA, nonparametric tests, linear and nonlinear regression models, categorical response models, statistical design of experiments, and advanced methods like re‐sampling tests, Bayesian statistics, and methods for high‐throughput ‐omics data. Each topic receives a brief overview of the theory and usage, followed by brief instructions and code examples for R software. These protocols should be useful to biologists who are learning statistics for the first time and biologists who would like a refresher on basic statistical methods. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Performances in Flexible Mesoscopic Solar Cells: An Effective Light‐Scattering Material
Authors: Yang Yuke , Cui Lingling , Wang Bo , Qiao Ru , Chen Dehong , Fan Jiajie , Shao Guosheng , Zhang Xiao Li
Published: August 2018

The development of a suitable material with both effective light scattering and high surface adhesion properties that would allow a low‐temperature fabrication of a mechanically stable light trapping layer is critical for today's flexible plastic dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs) to reach comparable high power conversion efficiency (PEC) towards commercialization. In the present work, submicron‐sized titania particles of intensive surface roughness were strategically synthesized using a combined sol–gel and thermolysis approach. When used as a light‐trapping layer in flexible DSCs, the ideal strong light scattering ability of such materials enabled significant enhancement of light harvesting and thus greatly contributed to the photocurrent performances. This led to a nearly 30 % PEC improvement when compared to the flexible DSCs using nanoparticle‐based photoanodes of a similar film thickness.
Two Useful Directing Modes in Singlet Oxygen Reactivity: Electrostatic Effects in the Ene Reaction with Allylic Alcoholates and a Chemoselectivity Change with α‐Alkoxy Michael Esters
Authors: Kleczka Margarethe , But Diana , Dylong Dominik , Fendinger Carolina , Marmann Verena , Wartke Christian , Griesbeck Axel G.
Published: August 2018

The singlet oxygen reaction with trisubstituted E‐allylic alcohols resulted in the unselective formation of regioisomeric secondary and tertiary allylic hydroperoxides. Increasing the steric demand at the allylic hydroxymethyl group leads to a moderate large‐group effect that can be strongly enhanced by deprotonation of a dimethylated allylic alcohol and even more pronounced by cation complexation. The presence of alkoxide groups did additionally alter the diastereoselectivity of the singlet oxygen ene reactions with chiral allylic alcohols. The molecular combination of Michael ester and enol ether in α‐alkoxy ester substrates made possible the design of chemoselective substrates for singlet oxygen ene versus [2+2] cycloaddition, e. g. a 3,3‐dimethylated Michael ester as a selective substrate for the ene reaction and an adamantyl analogue as a selective 2+2 substrate. The Z/E‐monomethylated substrates as probes for cis regioselectivity revealed that there is no site preference for Z‐alkoxy hydrogen transfer on the way to the corresponding ene product.
Photoinduced Nitrile Formation from O‐(Arylcarbonyl) oxime: Usage as a Photoremovable Protecting Group
Authors: Matsubara Ryosuke , Idros Ubaidah Md , Yabuta Tatsushi , Ma Huiying , Hayashi Masahiko , Eda Kazuo
Published: August 2018

Employing a photoremovable protecting group is a useful technique to achieve precise conditional control over a biological function. This Communication reports the development of a photoremovable protecting group for the nitrile moiety. In the process, O‐(arylcarbonyl) oxime was photochemically converted into the corresponding nitrile in the presence of a carbazole photosensitizer by means of an electron transfer from the excited carbazole to the arylcarbonyl unit. A variety of alkyl and (hetero) aryl nitriles were generated from the corresponding O‐(arylcarbonyl) oximes. Moreover, a self‐contained variant, in which O‐(arylcarbonyl) oxime and carbazole units were covalently bonded, exhibited photochemical nitrile formation even in a highly diluted aqueous solution (0.1 mM), thus demonstrating that this molecular motif is potentially applicable in biological systems.
A simple average current control with time‐length equality for primary‐side regulation flyback converter with constant output current control
Authors: Wang Chong , Xu Shen , Kou Xingpeng , Lu Shengli , Sun Weifeng
Published: August 2018

Primary‐side regulation (PSR) flyback converter is widely used in small power applications. To increase the output power, continuous conduction modulation mode is always introduced. In this paper, a simple average current control method with very low cost is proposed for constant current controlled PSR flyback converter in both continuous conduction modulation mode and discontinuous conduction modulation mode. The average current control method is realized with time‐length equality by simply comparing the average current with switch current, such that analog‐to‐digital converter for current sampling in traditional average current control method is removed. In addition, to eliminate the subharmonic oscillation and keep low cost, a fixed switch‐off time control with time‐length compensation algorithm is used. To improve the output current accuracy, a hysteretic multimode control method is applied. The total control requires very low implementation costs that only contain a low‐speed Digital to analog converter (DAC), three comparators, and a digital controller. The performance of the proposed control method is experimentally verified on an Field‐progrannable gate array (FPGA) controlled 3.8 to 16 V/3.8 A PSR flyback converter. In experiments, stable control and high output current accuracy are obtained, and the output current accuracy is within ±1.8% under universe line voltage and output load.
Small‐cell intensities for cellular network affected by cell‐edge and hotspot
Authors: Borah Janmoni , Bora Joyatri
Published: August 2018

At present, every network operator is looking for a cost‐effective and spectrally efficient solution not only for better coverage but also to offer higher data rates. Stochastic‐based heterogeneous cellular networks have taken over the thoroughly planned traditional hexagonal grid networks. Heterogeneous networks typically include multiple tiers of base stations and small cells. This paper presents an analysis of a cellular network with cell‐edge, uncovered, and hotspot (HS) users based on spatial bivariate Poisson Point Process. The work compares the relationship between small cell intensity for cell‐edge and HS user's intensity within macrocell area. The variations in small cell intensity for uncovered and HS users outside macrocells are also presented. The simulation results depict higher small cell intensity in cell‐edge areas as compared with HS areas within the macrocells, while for outside of macrocells, small cell intensity in HS areas is much higher than that for uncovered areas. The expected numbers of small cell inside and outside macrocells are obtained along with the total new cells required for the proposed model.
MMP14 Regulates Cranial Neural Crest Epithelial‐to‐Mesenchymal Transition and Migration
Authors: Garmon Taylor , Wittling Megen , Nie Shuyi
Published: August 2018

Background: Neural crest is a vertebrate specific cell population. Induced at lateral borders of the neural plate, neural crest cells (NCCs) subsequently undergo epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) to detach from the neuroepithelium before migrating into various locations in the embryo. Despite the wealth of knowledge of transcription factors involved in this process, little is known about the effectors that directly regulate neural crest EMT and migration. Results: Here, we examined the activity of matrix metalloproteinase MMP14 in NCCs and found that MMP14 is expressed in both premigratory and migrating NCCs. Overexpression of MMP14 led to premature migration of NCCs, while down‐regulation of MMP14 resulted in reduced neural crest migration. Transplantation experiment further showed that MMP14 is required in NCCs, whereas MMP2, which can be activated by MMP14, is required in the surrounding mesenchyme. in vitro explant culture showed that MMP14 is required for neural crest EMT but not for spreading. This is possibly mediated by the changes in cadherin levels, as decreasing MMP14 level led to increased cadherin expression and increasing MMP14 level led to reduced cadherin expression. Conclusions: The results demonstrate that MMP14 is critical for neural crest EMT and migration, partially through regulating the levels of cadherins. Developmental Dynamics 247:1083‐1092, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treating heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: learning from pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Graziani Francesca , Varone Francesco , Crea Filippo , Richeldi Luca
Published: August 2018

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has a poor prognosis, and an effective treatment is currently lacking. Increasing evidence suggests a prevailing pathogenic role of cardiac fibrosis in HFpEF, which generates the possibility of a mechanistic overlap with pulmonary fibrosis. Indeed, cardiac and pulmonary fibrosis share some characteristics and molecular pathways, such as that of transforming growth factor‐β. If pulmonary and cardiac fibrosis share common pathways, we can hypothesize a beneficial effect of anti‐fibrotic drugs used in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on cardiac outcomes. Of note, pirfenidone has been tested in animal models of cardiac fibrosis and was found to be effective in reducing ventricular remodelling. Yet, no results are hitherto available for humans.

In this review article, we discuss the potential benefit of anti‐fibrotic treatment in HFpEF. In particular, we propose to reappraise safety data collected in placebo‐controlled trials of anti‐fibrotic drugs in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, to explore the hypothesis that these might reduce cardiac fibrosis.
Age‐based stereotype threat and negative outcomes in the workplace: Exploring the role of identity integration
Authors: Manzi Claudia , Paderi Fabio , Benet‐Martínez Verónica , Coen Sharon
Published: August 2018

Previous studies have shown that the presence of age‐based stereotypes in the workplace is often associated with lower levels of work engagement and adjustment among older employees. This study examines possible mediators and moderators of this relationship using data from a sample of 2,348 older (age > 50) employees at the Italian national rail company. We test a model in which the effects of age‐based stereotype threat on organizational involvement, future time perspective, and psychological well‐being are mediated by work–age identity integration (how much individuals see their age and organizational identities as compatible and blended). Secondly, we explored whether these effects are moderated by gender and job status. Results indicate that age‐based stereotypes are associated with negative outcomes for employees’ work and personal adjustment, and that these relationships are partially mediated by variations in work–age identity integration.
Proteomic and metabolomic study of wax apple (Syzygium samarangense) fruit during ripening process
Authors: Al‐Obaidi Jameel R. , Jamil Nor Azreen Mohd , Rahmad Norasfaliza , Rosli Nurul Hafiza Mohd
Published: August 2018

Wax apple is one of the underutilized fruits that is considered a good source of fibers, vitamins, minerals as well as antioxidants. In this study, a comparative analysis of the developments of wax fruit ripening at the proteomic and metabolomic level was reported. 2D electrophoresis coupled with MALDI–TOF/TOF was used to compare the proteome profile from three developmental stages named immature, young, and mature fruits. In general, the protein expression profile and the identified proteins function were discussed for their potential roles in fruit physiological development and ripening processes. The metabolomic investigation was also performed on the same samples using quadrupole LC–MS (LC–QTOF/MS). Roles of some of the differentially expressed proteins and metabolites are discussed in relation to wax apple ripening during the development. This is the first study investigating the changes in the proteins and metabolites in wax apple at different developmental stages. The information obtained from this research will be helpful in developing biomarkers for breeders and help the plant researchers to avoid wax apple cultivation problems such as fruit cracking.
Revisiting design earthquake spectra
Authors: Calvi Gian Michele
Published: August 2018

For several decades, seismologists and engineers have been struggling to perfect the shape of design spectra, analyzing recorded signals, and speculating on probabilities. This research effort produced several improvements, for example, suggesting to adopt more than one period to define a spectral shape or proposing different spectral shapes as a function of the return period of the design ground motion. The spectral shapes recommended in most modern codes are driven by considerations on uniform hazard; however, the basic assumption of adopting essentially three fundamental criteria, ie, constant acceleration at low periods, constant displacement at long periods, and constant velocity in an intermediate period range, has never been really questioned.

In this opinion paper, the grounds of a constant velocity assumption is discussed and shown to be disputable and not physically based. Spectral shape based on different logics are shown to be potentially consistent with the experimental evidence and to lead to possible differences of 100% in terms of displacement and acceleration demand in the wide intermediate period range that characterizes the vast majority of structures.

In this framework, the historical development of linear and nonlinear spectra is critically revisited, proposing a novel original way of defining seismic demand.
Confirmatory factor analysis and psychometric properties of the Norwegian version of the Repetitive Eating Questionnaire: Further evidence for two distinct subtypes of grazing behaviour
Authors: Reas Deborah Lynn , Lindvall Dahlgren Camilla , Wonderlich Joseph , Syversen Gro , Lundin Kvalem Ingela
Published: August 2018

Objective

The Repetitive Eating Questionnaire, Rep(eat)‐Q, is a 12‐item self‐report measure of compulsive and noncompulsive forms of grazing behaviour (i.e., eating modest amounts of food in a repetitive and unplanned manner). The aim was to validate the proposed two‐factor model of the Rep(eat)‐Q in a community sample.

Method

A total of 190 university students (78% female) were administered the Rep(eat)‐Q along with other measures of eating behaviour. Mean age was 22.6 (SD = 4.2, 19–43) and mean body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) was 22.4 (SD = 2.9, 17–37).

Results

Findings revealed good fit indexes for the two‐factor model by confirmatory factor analysis, supporting the original solution. Internal consistency was excellent for the total score and two subscales (range 0.86 to 0.91). Age and BMI did not correlate significantly with the Rep(eat)‐Q. Moderate to strong correlations (rsp ≥ 0.48 to 0.61) were found between the compulsive grazing subscale and eating‐related measures, whereas weaker correlations (rsp ≥ 0.37 to 0.45) were found between the repetitive eating subscale and eating‐related measures.

Conclusions

This study confirmed the proposed factor structure of the Rep(eat)‐Q in a community sample, offering additional support to the conceptual distinction between compulsive (marked by loss of control) and repetitive (noncompulsive) subtypes of grazing behaviour.
Clines on the seashore: The genomic architecture underlying rapid divergence in the face of gene flow
Authors: Westram Anja M. , Rafajlović Marina , Chaube Pragya , Faria Rui , Larsson Tomas , Panova Marina , Ravinet Mark , Blomberg Anders , Mehlig Bernhard , Johannesson Kerstin , Butlin Roger
Published: August 2018

Adaptive divergence and speciation may happen despite opposition by gene flow. Identifying the genomic basis underlying divergence with gene flow is a major task in evolutionary genomics. Most approaches (e.g., outlier scans) focus on genomic regions of high differentiation. However, not all genomic architectures potentially underlying divergence are expected to show extreme differentiation. Here, we develop an approach that combines hybrid zone analysis (i.e., focuses on spatial patterns of allele frequency change) with system-specific simulations to identify loci inconsistent with neutral evolution. We apply this to a genome-wide SNP set from an ideally suited study organism, the intertidal snail Littorina saxatilis, which shows primary divergence between ecotypes associated with different shore habitats. We detect many SNPs with clinal patterns, most of which are consistent with neutrality. Among non-neutral SNPs, most are located within three large putative inversions differentiating ecotypes. Many non-neutral SNPs show relatively low levels of differentiation. We discuss potential reasons for this pattern, including loose linkage to selected variants, polygenic adaptation and a component of balancing selection within populations (which may be expected for inversions). Our work is in line with theory predicting a role for inversions in divergence, and emphasizes that genomic regions contributing to divergence may not always be accessible with methods purely based on allele frequency differences. These conclusions call for approaches that take spatial patterns of allele frequency change into account in other systems.
Preparation and in vitro diffusion study of essential oil Pickering emulsions stabilized by silica nanoparticles
Authors: Horváth Barbara , Pál Szilárd , Széchenyi Aleksandar
Published: August 2018

In the field of essential oil research, the low water solubility of essential oils (EOs) causes several problems, not only in pharmaceutical applications, but also in microbiological experiments. The aim of our work was to prepare Pickering emulsions with tea tree, thyme, and anise EOs stabilized with silica nanoparticles, in order to enhance their availability for microbiological tests. We have examined the influence of surface properties and concentration of silica nanoparticles and dispergation energy on emulsion stability and droplet size. In vitro diffusion experiments have been performed on model agar gel membranes, with the stable Pickering emulsions and conventional emulsions of EOs stabilized with Tween 80 surfactant. We have examined the influence of surface modifying group type, surface coverage of silica nanoparticles, and droplet size of the emulsions on the diffusion properties of the EOs. Our results show that highly stable Pickering emulsions can be prepared with silica nanoparticles of 20 nm diameter and 20% of surface covered with ethyl groups, in a wide EO concentration range. The cumulative amount of the EO was more effective in Pickering emulsions than in conventional emulsions for tea tree and thyme EOs, whereas the opposite case was true for anise EO. As the droplet size of the Pickering emulsion decreases, the cumulative concentration of the EO increases. In this work, we have shown that the Pickering emulsions of EOs are a suitable form for EO transport through complex membranes, and hopefully can be effectively applied in microbiological and pharmaceutical experiments.
What Can Be Learned from Experience with Scientific Advisory Committees in the Field of International Environmental Politics?
Authors: Andresen Steinar , Baral Prativa , Hoffman Steven J. , Fafard Patrick
Published: August 2018

Scientific advisory committees (SACs) are a critically important part of global environmental policy. This commentary reviews the role of SACs in six global and regional environmental regimes, defined here as the set of rules, norms, and procedures that are developed by states and international organizations out of their common concerns and used to organize common activities. First, SACs play a critical role in putting issues on the political agenda and the creation of an overarching regime. Second, the effectiveness of a given SAC and the associated regime is highly variable. Third, there is also considerable variation in the extent to which the regime is driven by an overarching scientific consensus, for example, high in the case of climate change, lower in the case of whaling. Fourth, the role of science in a given regime is also a function of whether the problem being addressed is relatively benign or more malign, that is to say, marked by deep political disagreements (i.e., climate change). Finally, the cases examined here suggest that the institutional design of the SAC matters and can influence the overall effectiveness of the SAC and by extension, the regime, but it is seldom decisive.
Brain network profiling defines functionally specialized cortical networks
Authors: Di Plinio Simone , Ebisch Sjoerd J. H.
Published: August 2018

Neuroimaging research made rapid advances in the study of the functional architecture of the brain during the past decade. Many proposals endorsed the relevance of large‐scale brain networks, defined as ensembles of brain regions that exhibit highly correlated signal fluctuations. However, analysis methods need further elaboration to define the functional and anatomical extent of specialized subsystems within classical networks with a high reliability. We present a novel approach to characterize and examine the functional proprieties of brain networks. This approach, labeled as brain network profiling (BNP), considers similarities in task‐evoked activity and resting‐state functional connectivity across biologically relevant brain subregions. To combine task‐driven activity and functional connectivity features, principal components were extracted separately for task‐related beta values and resting‐state functional connectivity z‐values (data available from the Human Connectome Project), from 360 brain parcels. Multiple clustering procedures were employed to assess if different clustering methods (Gaussian mixtures; k‐means) and/or data structures (task and rest data; only rest data) led to improvements in the replication of the brain architecture. The results indicated that combining information from resting‐state functional connectivity and task‐evoked activity and using Gaussian mixtures models for clustering produces more reliable results (99% replication across data sets). Moreover, the findings revealed a high‐resolution partition of the cerebral cortex in 16 networks with unique functional connectivity and/or task‐evoked activity profiles. BNP potentially offers new approaches to advance the investigation of the brain functional architecture.
Clinical Consequences of Cardiomyopathy in Children With Biliary Atresia Requiring Liver Transplantation
Authors: Gorgis Noelle M. , Kennedy Curtis , Lam Fong , Thompson Kathleen , Coss‐Bu Jorge , Akcan Arikan Ayse , Nguyen Trung , Hosek Kathleen , Miloh Tamir , Karpen Saul J. , Penny Daniel J. , Goss John , Desai Moreshwar S.
Published: August 2018

Cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM), a comorbidity of end‐stage cirrhotic liver disease, remains uncharacterized in children, largely because of a lack of an established pediatric definition. The aim of this retrospective cohort analysis is to derive objective two‐dimensional echocardiographic (2DE) criteria to define CCM associated with biliary atresia (BA), or BA‐CCM, and correlate presence of BA‐CCM with liver transplant (LT) outcomes in this population. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, optimal cut‐off values for left ventricular (LV) geometrical parameters that were highly sensitive and specific for the primary outcomes: A composite of serious adverse events (CSAE) and peritransplant death were determined. These results were used to propose a working definition for BA‐CCM: (1) LV mass index (LVMI) ≥95 g/m2.7 or (2) relative wall thickness of LV ≥0.42. Applying these criteria, BA‐CCM was found in 34 of 69 (49%) patients with BA listed for LT and was associated with increased multiorgan dysfunction, mechanical and vasopressor support, and longer intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays. BA‐CCM was present in all 4 waitlist deaths, 7 posttransplant deaths, and 20 patients with a CSAE (P < 0.01). On multivariable regression analysis, BA‐CCM remained independently associated with both death and a CSAE (P < 0.01). Utilizing ROC analysis, LVMI was found to be a stronger predictor for adverse outcomes compared with current well‐established markers, including Pediatric End‐Stage Liver Disease (PELD) score. Conclusion: BA‐CCM is highly sensitive and specific for morbidity and mortality in children with BA listed for LT. 2DE screening for BA‐CCM may provide pertinent clinical information for prioritization and optimal peritransplant management of these children.
A Pragmatic Approach Identifies a High Rate of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease With Advanced Fibrosis in Diabetes Clinics and At‐Risk Populations in Primary Care
Authors: Patel PreyaJanubhai , Hossain Fabrina , Horsfall Leigh Ula , Banh Xuan , Hayward Kelly Lee , Williams Suzanne , Johnson Tracey , Bernard Anne , Brown Nigel Neil , Lampe Guy , Buck Lyndall , Saad Nivene , Russell Anthony William , Valery Patricia Casarolli , Irvine Katharine Margaret , Clouston Andrew Donald , Stuart Katherine Anne , Rosenberg William , Powell Elizabeth Ellen
Published: August 2018

Noninvasive serum biomarkers (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score [NFS], fibrosis 4 score [FIB‐4], or enhanced liver fibrosis [ELF] test) are recommended as first‐line tools to determine the risk of advanced fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. We aimed to assess the utility of a pragmatic approach to screening for clinically significant fibrosis in primary care and diabetes clinics. We recruited 252 patients from an endocrine clinic or primary care facility. Anthropometric measurements, ELF test, ultrasound, and liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) were performed. Clinically significant fibrosis was defined as LSM ≥8.2 kPa or ELF ≥9.8. A subgroup of patients underwent liver biopsy (n = 48) or had imaging diagnostic of cirrhosis (n = 14). Patients were 57.3 ± 12.3 years old with a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (84.5%), type 2 diabetes (82.5%), and body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2 (21.8%). LSM met quality criteria in 230 (91.3%) patients. NFS and FIB‐4 combined had a high negative predictive value (90.0%) for excluding LSM ≥8.2 kPa. However, 84.1% of patients had indeterminate or high NFS or FIB‐4 scores requiring further assessment. LSM ≥8.2 kPa and ELF ≥9.8 were present in 31.3% and 28.6% of patients, respectively. Following adjustment for age, BMI, sex, and presence of advanced fibrosis, older age was independently associated with ELF ≥9.8 (adjusted odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.06‐1.24), whereas increasing BMI was independently associated with LSM ≥8.2 kPa (adjusted odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.01‐1.30). Concordant LSM <8.2 kPa and ELF <9.8 and concordant LSM ≥8.2 kPa and ELF ≥9.8 had a high negative predictive value (91.7%) and positive predictive value (95.8%) for excluding and identifying clinically significant fibrosis, respectively. Conclusion: Simple scoring tools alone lack accuracy. LSM accuracy is influenced by severe obesity, whereas age impacts the ELF test. Further studies are required to confirm whether combining LSM and ELF may enhance accuracy and confidence in identifying clinically significant fibrosis. (Hepatology Communications 2018; 00:000‐000)