bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Receptor-mediated dimerization of JAK2 FERM domains is required for JAK2 activation
Authors: Ferrao Ryan D , Wallweber Heidi JA , Lupardus Patrick J
Published: July 2018

Cytokines and interferons initiate intracellular signaling via receptor dimerization and activation of Janus kinases (JAKs). How JAKs structurally respond to changes in receptor conformation induced by ligand binding is not known. Here, we present two crystal structures of the human JAK2 FERM and SH2 domains bound to Leptin receptor (LEPR) and Erythropoietin receptor (EPOR), which identify a novel dimeric conformation for JAK2. This 2:2 JAK2/receptor dimer, observed in both structures, identifies a previously uncharacterized receptor interaction essential to dimer formation that is mediated by a membrane-proximal peptide motif called the ‘switch’ region. Mutation of the receptor switch region disrupts STAT phosphorylation but does not affect JAK2 binding, indicating that receptor-mediated formation of the JAK2 FERM dimer is required for kinase activation. These data uncover the structural and molecular basis for how a cytokine-bound active receptor dimer brings together two JAK2 molecules to stimulate JAK2 kinase activity.
Detecting malingering mental illness in forensics: Known-Group Comparison and Simulation Design with MMPI-2, SIMS and NIM
Authors: De Marchi Barbara , Balboni Giulia
Published: July 2018

Background

Criminal defendants may often exaggerate psychiatric symptoms either to appear non-accountable for their actions or to mitigate their imprisonment. Several psychometric tests have been proposed to detect malingering. These instruments are often validated by Simulation Design (SD) protocols, where normal participants are explicitly requested to either simulate a mental disorder or respond honestly. However, the real scenarios (clinical or forensic) are often very challenging because of the presence of genuine patients, so that tests accuracy frequently differs from that one obtained in well-controlled experimental settings. Here we assessed the effectiveness in criminal defendants of three well-known malingering-detecting tests (MMPI-2, SIMS and NIM) by using both Known-Group Comparison (KGC) and Simulation Design (SD) protocols.

Methods

The study involved 151 male inmates. Participants to the KGC protocol were all characterized by a positive psychiatric history. They were considered as genuine patients (KGC_Controls) if they had some psychiatric disorders already before imprisonment and scored above the cutoff of SCL-90-R, a commonly used test for mental illness, and as suspected malingerers (KGC_SM) if they were diagnosed as psychiatric patients only after imprisonment and scored below the SCL-90-R cutoff. Participants to SD protocol had no history of psychiatric disease and scored below the SCL-90-R cutoff. They were randomly assigned to either group: Controls (requested to answer honestly, SD_Controls) and simulated malingerers (requested to feign a psychiatric disease, SD_SM). All participants were then submitted to MMPI-2, NIM and SIMS.

Results

Results showed that while MMPI-2, SIMS and NIM were all effective in discriminating malingerers in the SD, SIMS only significantly discriminated between KGC_Controls and KGC_SM in the Known-Group Comparison. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves analysis confirmed the better sensitivity of SIMS with respect to the other tests but raised some issues on SIMS specificity.

Discussion

Results support the sensitivity of SIMS for the detection of malingering in forensic populations. However, some specificity issues emerged suggesting that further research and a good forensic practice should keep into account multiple measures of malingering, including psychometric data, clinical and social history and current clinical situation. These methodological constraints must be kept in mind during detection of malingering in criminal defendants reporting psychiatric symptoms.
Obesity bias among preclinical and clinical chiropractic students and faculty at an integrative health care institution: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kadar Gena E. , Thompson H. Garrett
Published: July 2018

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of obesity bias among preclinical and clinical chiropractic students and faculty at an integrative health care academic institution.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional quantitative, single-method survey with group comparison using the Beliefs About Obese Persons scale (BAOP) and the Attitudes Toward Obese Persons scale. Both instruments were administered as a single 28 question survey via email to 450 students and 46 faculty members in a doctor of chiropractic (DC) program. Differences were determined by 2 tailed t tests.

Results:

The response rate for faculty and students was 31% and 65%, respectively. One hundred forty-three DC students, preclinical (n = 65) and clinical (n = 78), and 30 DC faculty, preclinical (n = 15) and clinical (n = 15) completed the survey. Both students and faculty harbored antiobesity attitudes and moderate antiobesity beliefs. Students demonstrated slightly more positive attitudes toward obese persons than did preclinical faculty. Although preclinical faculty did not demonstrate more biased attitudes than did preclinical students (p = .057), they were more biased than clinical students (p = .26). On the BAOP, preclinical faculty scored significantly lower than both preclinical students and clinical students (p = .013 and .017, respectively).

Conclusion:

Obesity bias was common among clinical and preclinical chiropractic students and faculty at our institution. A cultural shift that reduces bias may require changes in both the curriculum and cocurriculum.
Osteoblast‐Derived Giant Plasma Membrane Vesicles Induce Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Gaur Deepanjali , Yogalakshmi Yamini , Kulanthaivel Senthilguru , Agarwal Tarun , Mukherjee Devdeep , Prince Ashutosh , Tiwari Anuj , Maiti Tapas K. , Pal Kunal , Giri Supratim , Saleem Mohammed , Banerjee Indranil
Published: July 2018

Exosome‐mediated differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) has opened up a new possibility for the directed osteogenic differentiation of hMSC by the osteoblast‐derived vesicles. Here, it is hypothesized that giant plasma membrane vesicles (GPMVs) generated from osteoblast, can direct the osteogenic differentiation of hMSC. GPMVs having different membrane characteristics are generated from osteoblast cells (MG‐63) using chemical vesiculants. It is deciphered that there is a treatment‐dependent variation in the size and complexity in the GPMVs. It is also showed a variation in lipid composition among the GPMVs. It is demonstrated that GPMVs can be fused with hMSC in vitro and such fusion has no detrimental effect on the viability of hMSC. Further, it is showed that there is a significant increase in the expression of osteogenic differentiation markers in GPMV‐fused hMSC at protein and mRNA level. A close correlation between the extent of fusion and the degree of osteogenic differentiation is observed. The GPMV reported here may be explored for future application in bone tissue engineering.
Acellular Cauda Equina Allograft as Main Material Combined with Biodegradable Chitin Conduit for Regeneration of Long‐Distance Sciatic Nerve Defect in Rats
Authors: Sun Xun , Wang Yu , Guo Zhiyuan , Xiao Bo , Sun Zhen , Yin Heyong , Meng Haoye , Sui Xiang , Zhao Qing , Guo Quanyi , Wang Aiyuan , Xu Wenjing , Liu Shuyun , Li Yaojun , Lu Shibi , Peng Jiang
Published: July 2018

Autologous nerve grafting (ANG), the gold standard treatment for peripheral nerve defects, still has many restrictions. In this study, the acellular cauda equina allograft (ACEA), which consists of biodegradable chitin conduit and acellular cauda equina, is developed. The cauda equina is able to complete decellularization more quickly and efficiently than sciatic nerves under the same conditions, and it is able to reserve more basal lamina tube. In vitro, ACEA shows superior guidance capacity for the regeneration of axons and migration of Schwann cells compared to acellular sciatic nerve allograft (ASNA) in dorsal root ganglion culture. In vivo, ACEA is used to bridge 15 mm long‐distance defects in rat sciatic nerves. On day 21 after transplantation, the regenerative distance of neurofilaments in the grafting segment is not significantly different between the ACEA and ANG groups. At week 12, ACEA group shows better sciatic nerve repair than chitin conduit only and ASNA groups, and the effect is similar to that in the ANG group as determined by gait analysis, neural electrophysiological, and histological analyses. The above results suggest that the ACEA has the potential to become a new biological material as a replacement for autografting in the treatment of long‐distance nerve defects.
Colloidal Lithography Meets Plasmonic Nanochemistry
Authors: Wang Zengyao , Ai Bin , Möhwald Helmuth , Zhang Gang
Published: July 2018

Colloidal lithography (CL) is a newly developing nanofabrication technique and can produce various nanostructures at low cost and large scale. The CL‐based nanostructures offer great performances in plasmonics, which holds a unique capability to concentrate light into subwavelength volumes. Valuable physics effects accompanied with plasmonics, such as heat generation, optical near‐field enhancement, and excitation of hot electrons have been verified to benefit chemistry reactions, leading to a new field of plasmonic nanochemistry. Starting from CL, by way of plasmonic nanostructures, toward chemistry reaction, it shows a powerful strategy to develop all these three research areas, like the silk road which has a wide profit. In this scenario, a nanoscale “silk road” from CL to plasmonic nanochemistry is presented. Recent plasmonic nanostructures fabricated via CL are summarized and are morphologically classified into multilayer, hierarchical, hollow, asymmetric, and other nanostructures. Mechanism and development of plasmonics nanochemistry are introduced. Application prospects of several unique CL‐based structures will be expected. Finally, challenges and perspectives are offered to inspire more ingenious developments of using CL in plasmonic nanochemistry.
Global Artificial Photosynthesis and Renewable Energy Storage and Policy for the Sustainocene
Authors: Faunce Thomas
Published: July 2018

Among developing strategies for renewable energy conversion and storage, artificial photosynthesis (AP) has many long‐term advantages over currently favored strategies such as small‐ and large‐scale lithium‐ion batteries. Such advantages may not be clearly revealed by recent methods of AP including hybrid nanotechnology–synthetic biology systems. This paper critiques some of these recent developments in the context of the long‐term goal of integrating AP (conducted without enslaving biological life) into every road and building on the Earth's surface. It considers the advantages and disadvantages of this as a long‐term energy storage solution and reflects on how such disadvantages may be overcome.
Progress and Future Perspectives on Li(Na)–CO2 Batteries
Authors: Cai Fengshi , Hu Zhe , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: July 2018

Li(Na)–CO2 batteries are attracting significant research attention due to contemporary energy and environmental issues. Li(Na)–CO2 batteries make possible the utilization of CO2 and open up a new avenue for energy conversion and storage. Research on this system is currently in its infancy, and its development is still faced with many challenges in terms of high charge potential, weak rate capability, and poor cyclability. Moreover, the reaction mechanism in the battery is still unclear and hard to determine, due to the generation of carbon along with metal carbonates on the cathode. In this review, the authors present the fundamentals and the latest progress related to Li(Na)–CO2 research. Detailed discussions are provided on the electrochemical reactions on cathode, cathode materials, and electrolytes. Current challenges and future perspectives on Li(Na)–CO2 batteries are also proposed.
Cytogenetics and holoprosencephaly: A chromosomal microarray study of 222 individuals with holoprosencephaly
Authors: Hu Tommy , Kruszka Paul , Martinez Ariel F. , Ming Jeffrey E. , Shabason Emily K. , Raam Manu S. , Shaikh Tamim H. , Pineda‐Alvarez Daniel E. , Muenke Maximilian
Published: July 2018

Holoprosencephaly (HPE), a common developmental forebrain malformation, is characterized by failure of the cerebrum to completely divide into left and right hemispheres. The etiology of HPE is heterogeneous and a number of environmental and genetic factors have been identified. Cytogenetically visible alterations occur in 25% to 45% of HPE patients and cytogenetic techniques have long been used to study copy number variants (CNVs) in this disorder. The karyotype approach initially demonstrated several recurrent chromosomal anomalies, which led to the identification of HPE‐specific loci and, eventually, several major HPE genes. More recently, higher‐resolution cytogenetic techniques such as subtelomeric multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification and chromosomal microarray have been used to analyze chromosomal anomalies. By using chromosomal microarray, we sought to identify submicroscopic chromosomal deletions and duplications in patients with HPE. In an analysis of 222 individuals with HPE, a deletion or duplication was detected in 107 individuals. Of these 107 individuals, 23 (21%) had variants that were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic by board‐certified medical geneticists. We identified multiple patients with deletions in established HPE loci as well as three patients with deletions encompassed by 6q12‐q14.3, a CNV previously reported by Bendavid et al. In addition, we identified a new locus, 16p13.2 that warrants further investigation for HPE association. Incidentally, we also found a case of Potocki‐Lupski syndrome, a case of Phelan‐McDermid syndrome, and multiple cases of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome within our cohort. These data confirm the genetically heterogeneous nature of HPE, and also demonstrate clinical utility of chromosomal microarray in diagnosing patients affected by HPE.
Nitric oxide‐releasing microparticles as a potent antimicrobial therapeutic against chronic rhinosinusitis bacterial isolates
Authors: Abuzeid Waleed M. , Girish Vallerinteavide Mavelli , Fastenberg Judd H. , Draganski Andrew R. , Lee Andrew Y. , Nosanchuk Joshua D. , Friedman Joel M.
Published: July 2018

Background

Bacteria, particularly in the biofilm state, may be implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and enhance antibiotic resistance. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous immunomodulator with antimicrobial activity and a short half‐life, complicating achievement of therapeutic concentrations. We hypothesized that a novel microparticle‐based delivery platform, which allows for adjustable release of NO, could exhibit potent antibacterial effects.

Methods

Porous organosilica microparticles (SNO‐MP) containing nitrosylated thiol groups were formulated. Dissociation of the nitrosothiol groups generates NO at body temperature. The susceptibility of bacterial isolates from CRS patients to SNO‐MP was evaluated through a colony forming unit (CFU) assay. Serial dilutions of SNO‐MP in triplicate were incubated with isolates in suspension for 6 hours followed by plating on tryptic soy agar and overnight incubation followed by CFU quantification. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS using one‐way analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction.

Results

SNO‐MP displayed antibacterial activity against gram‐positive (methicillin‐resistant and ‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Proteus mirabilis) isolates. SNO‐MP induced dose‐dependent reductions in CFU across all strains. Compared with controls and blank nanoparticles, SNO‐MP (10 mg/mL) induced a 99.99%‐100% reduction in CFU across all isolates, equivalent to a 5–9 log kill (p < 0.005). There was no statistically significant difference in CFU concentration between controls and blank microparticles.

Conclusion

SNO‐MP demonstrates potent bactericidal effect against antibiotic‐resistant CRS bacterial strains.
Analysis of Protein Phosphorylation Using Phos‐Tag Gels
Authors: Nagy Zoltan , Comer Shane , Smolenski Albert
Published: July 2018

Phos‐tag gels are recent tools to dissect protein phosphorylation that operate by inducing a shift in the electrophoretic mobility of phosphorylated proteins compared to their nonphosphorylated counterparts. This article describes the preparation and electrophoresis of Zn2+‐Phos‐tag gels along with electrotransfer of the separated phospho‐ and nonphosphoproteins onto a PVDF membrane using either wet‐tank or semidry transfer. We also discuss the theory behind the technology with critical parameters to keep in mind for its successful application. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Spotted Owls and forest fire: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the evidence
Authors: Lee Derek E.
Published: July 2018

Forest and Spotted Owl management documents often state that severe wildfire is a cause of recent declines in populations of Spotted Owls and that mixed‐severity fires (5–70% of burned area in high‐severity patches with >75% mortality of dominant vegetation) pose a primary threat to Spotted Owl population viability. This systematic review and meta‐analysis summarize all available scientific literature on the effects of wildfire on Spotted Owl demography and ecology from studies using empirical data to answer the question: How does fire, especially recent mixed‐severity fires with representative patches of high‐severity burn within their home ranges, affect Spotted Owl foraging habitat selection, demography, and site occupancy parameters? Fifteen papers reported 50 effects from fire that could be differentiated from post‐fire logging. Meta‐analysis of mean standardized effects (Hedge's d) found only one parameter was significantly different from zero, a significant positive foraging habitat selection for low‐severity burned forest. Multi‐level mixed‐effects meta‐regressions (hierarchical models) of Hedge's d against percent of study area burned at high severity and time since fire found the following: a negative correlation of occupancy with time since fire; a positive effect on recruitment immediately after the fire, with the effect diminishing with time since fire; reproduction was positively correlated with the percent of high‐severity fire in owl territories; and positive selection for foraging in low‐ and moderate‐severity burned forest, with high‐severity burned forest used in proportion to its availability, but not avoided. Meta‐analysis of variation found significantly greater variation in parameters from burned sites relative to unburned, with specifically higher variation in estimates of occupancy, demography, and survival, and lower variation in estimates of selection probability for foraging habitat in low‐severity burned forest. Spotted Owls were usually not significantly affected by mixed‐severity fire, as 83% of all studies and 60% of all effects found no significant impact of fire on mean owl parameters. Contrary to current perceptions and recovery efforts for the Spotted Owl, mixed‐severity fire does not appear to be a serious threat to owl populations; rather, wildfire has arguably more benefits than costs for Spotted Owls.
Distribution patterns of desert plant diversity and relationship to soil properties in the Heihe River Basin, China
Authors: Li Shanjia , Su Peixi , Zhang Haina , Zhou Zijuan , Xie Tingting , Shi Rui , Gou Wei
Published: July 2018

The study on the patterns of plant species diversity and the factors influencing these patterns forms the basis of ecology and is fundamental to conservation biology. In this paper, desert plant species diversity and soil properties (nutrient and texture) were investigated along desert region of the Heihe River Basin (HRB) to determine whether soil environmental factors influenced desert plant species diversity. We found a total of 44 shrub and herb species belonging to 40 genera of 17 families. The largest family was the Compositae, accounting for 25.0% of the total. Twenty‐four survey plots were clustered into eight plant community types. The Margalef richness (D), Simpson dominance (C), Pielou evenness (Jsw), and Shannon‐wiener (H) index differed significantly among community types. Redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed a relatively strong relationship between the species diversity and soil environmental factors. The first RDA axis accounted for 80.5% and 81.8% of the variation in soil nutrient and texture properties, respectively, but was not statistically significant. RDA suggested that total phosphorus (TP) and medium sand (0.25–0.5 mm) content were the only two statistically significant factors in the study area. Both classification and ordination resulted in a clear demonstration of the spatial variability of community and soil properties. In general, the distribution pattern of desert plant community was mainly related to soil nutrient and texture properties factors, but the relation was not strong. This study provides insights into desert plant diversity and community conservation of Inland HRB in arid desert ecosystems.
Evaluation of standing‐sitting support system with passive rotational seat mechanism in standing motion
Authors: Sogo Hiroyuki , Henmi Tomohiro , Shobako Shinichiro , Ishii Kohei , Eto Suguru , Ogata Yuta
Published: July 2018

Since a decrease in muscle mass of elderly people, the physical burden of them in standing‐sitting motion of a seat are increasing than young people. For this problem, several standing‐sitting support systems have been developed, and evaluations of these systems focusing on a reduction of physical load have been discussed. However, these evaluations are of support systems with an active actuators or of support systems when they use a handrail and a standing aid. Thus, an evaluation of a support system with only passive actuators has not been reported. In this paper, in standing motion with using a standing‐sitting support system with passive rotational seat mechanism which our group proposes, we objectively evaluate an effectiveness of the passive rotational seat mechanism by statistical analysis.
An Integrated Real‐time Electrochemical LAMP Device for Pathogenic Bacteria Detection in Food
Authors: Huang Tsung‐Tao , Liu Shao‐Chung , Huang Chih‐Hung , Lin Chun‐Ju , Huang Sheng‐Tung
Published: July 2018

A novel, integrated, real‐time electrochemical loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) device for pathogen detection in food was developed. The electrochemical LAMP device for detection of the vt gene in E. coli O157 : H7 and invA gene in Salmonella enterica was implemented with DNA intercalating probes‐methylene blue. To improve assay efficiency, the optimal concentration of MB was determined to be 30 μM. The real‐time electrochemical LAMP results of gene serial dilutions were compared to the fluorescence‐based detection method. For E. coli O157 and Salmonella, the assay detection limits were 10 DNA copies and 1 DNA copy, respectively, in a reaction time of less than 30 min. The electrochemical and optical LAMP method analyses were realized with 10 % milk to simulate the turbid environment of real food samples. In real‐time LAMP of Salmonella in a turbid environment, the detection limit of 10 copies without pretreatment was possible using the electrochemical method only. Our electrochemical device was used for bacterial detection in 150 turbid food samples, including juice, milk, and soy milk. This electrochemical device has many advantages, including size, portability, high specificity, and high sensitivity, while also being a user‐friendly device that provides stable signals. Thus, to the best of our knowledge, this new electrochemical device demonstrates the best performance for bacterial detection in the rapid contaminated food detection category.
Selective role of Na+/H+ exchanger in Cx3cr1+ microglial activation, white matter demyelination, and post‐stroke function recovery
Authors: Song Shanshan , Wang Shaoxia , Pigott Victoria M. , Jiang Tong , Foley Lesley M. , Mishra Abhishek , Nayak Rachana , Zhu Wen , Begum Gulnaz , Shi Yejie , Carney Karen E. , Hitchens T. Kevin , Shull Gary E. , Sun Dandan
Published: July 2018

Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE1) activation is required for multiple microglial functions. We investigated effects of selective deletion of microglial Nhe1 in Cx3cr1‐CreER;Nhe1f/f mice on neuroinflammation and tissue repair after ischemic stroke. Infarct volume was similar in corn oil or tamoxifen (Tam)‐treated mice at 48 hr and 14 days post‐stroke. However, the Tam‐treated mice showed significantly higher survival rate and faster neurological function recovery during day 1–14 post‐stroke. Deletion of microglial Nhe1 prevented the elevation of CD11b+/CD45low‐med microglia in the ischemic hemisphere at day 3 post‐stroke, but stimulated expression of Ym1, CD68, TGF‐β, IL‐10, decreased expression of CD86 and IL‐1β, and reduced GFAP+ reactive astrocytes. Moreover, at day 14 post‐stroke, enhanced white matter myelination was detected in the microglial Nhe1 deleted mice. In comparison, neuronal Nhe1‐null mice (the CamKII‐Cre+/−;Nhe1f/f mice) showed a significant reduction in both acute and subacute infarct volume, along with increased survival rate and moderate neurological function recovery. However, these neuronal Nhe1‐null mice did not exhibit reduced activation of CD11b+/CD45low‐med microglia or CD11b+/CD45hi macrophages in the ischemic brains, and they exhibited no reductions in white matter lesions. Taken together, this study demonstrated that deletion of microglial and neuronal Nhe1 had differential effects on ischemic brain damage. Microglial NHE1 is involved in pro‐inflammatory responses during post‐stroke brain tissue repair. In contrast, neuronal NHE1 activation is directly associated with the acute ischemic neuronal injury but not inflammation. Our study reveals that NHE1 protein is a potential therapeutic target critical for differential regulation of ischemic neuronal injury, demyelination and tissue repair.
Variations in stakeholders' priorities and views on randomisation and funding decisions in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest: An exploratory study
Authors: von Vopelius‐Feldt Johannes , Brandling Janet , Benger Jonathan
Published: July 2018

Background and aims

Prehospital critical care for out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a complex and largely unproven intervention. During research to examine this intervention, we noted significant differences in stakeholders' views about research, randomisation, and the funding of prehospital critical care for OHCA. We aimed to answer the following questions: What are stakeholders' priorities for prehospital research? What are stakeholders' views on randomisation of prehospital critical care? How do stakeholders consider allocation of resources in prehospital care?

Methods

We undertook an explanatory qualitative framework analysis of interviews and focus group with 5 key stakeholder groups: patients and public, air ambulance charities, ambulance service commissioners, prehospital researchers, and prehospital critical care providers.

Results

We undertook 3 focus group discussions with a total of 23 participants and 8 interviews with a total of 9 participants. Despite sharing a common appreciation of the concepts of scientific enquiry, fairness, and beneficence, the 5 relevant stakeholder groups displayed divergent views of research and funding strategies regarding the intervention of prehospital critical care for the condition of OHCA. The reasons for this divergence could largely be explained through the different personal experiences and situational contexts of each stakeholder group. Many aspects of the strategies suggested by the stakeholder groups only partially aligned with principles of traditional evidence‐based medicine, but were held with strong conviction.

Discussion

Analysis of the views of 5 stakeholder groups regarding research and the funding of prehospital critical care for OHCA revealed shared values but a variety of different strategies to achieve these. This knowledge can help researchers in similar fields in the planning and presentation of their research, to maximise impact on decision making.
Regular Figures, Minimal Transitivity, and Reticular Chemistry
Authors: Liu Yuzhong , O'Keeffe Michael
Published: July 2018

Reticular chemistry is concerned with the design and synthesis of targeted framework structures by linking molecular building units with pre‐selected shapes. In this article, we review the geometrical aspects of the subject. In particular, the concept of minimal transitivity is introduced as a guideline to identify types of framework that are most suitable as targets for synthesis.
Control of optical transparency and infrared laser heating of costal cartilage via injection of iohexol
Authors: Alexandrovskaya Yulia M. , Evtushenko Evgeniy G. , Obrezkova Mariya M. , Tuchin Valery V. , Sobol Emil N.
Published: July 2018

Infrared (IR) laser impact has no analogues for rapid and safe cartilage reshaping. For better penetration of radiation optical clearing agents (OCAs) can be applied. In present work, the effect of low‐osmolality agent iohexol on costal cartilage is studied. Specifically, it is shown that ½ of total increase of optical transparency occurs in 20 minutes of immersion. Maximally, cartilage transparency on 1560 nm can be increased in 1.5 times. Injection of iohexol results in increased tissue hygroscopicity, lower drying rate and higher percentage of bound water. Effective diffusion coefficients of water liberation at 21°C are (5.3 ± 0.4) × 10−7and (3.3 ± 0.1) × 10−7cm2/s for untreated and iohexol‐modified tissue, respectively. Raman spectroscopy of irradiated iohexol solution reveals its photo and thermo‐stability under clinically used IR laser energies up to 350 W/cm2for exposure times of several seconds. At energies higher than 500 W/cm2[Correction added on 5 September 2018, after first online publication: This unit has been changed] decomposition of iohexol occurs rapidly through formation of molecular iodine and fluorescent residue.
Diurnal Profile of the QTc Interval Following Moxifloxacin Administration
Authors: Täubel Jörg , Ferber Georg , Fernandes Sara , Camm A. John
Published: July 2018

Understanding the physiological fluctuations in the corrected QT (QTc) interval is important to accurately interpret the variations in drug‐induced prolongation. The present study aimed to define the time course of the effect of moxifloxacin on the QT interval to understand the duration of the responses to moxifloxacin. This retrospective analysis was performed on data taken from a thorough QT 4‐way crossover study with 40 subjects. Each period consisted of a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) day (day –1) and a treatment day (day 1). On both days, ECGs were recorded simultaneously using 2 different systems operating in parallel: a bedside ECG and a continuous Holter recording. The subjects were randomized to 1 of 4 treatments: 5 mg and 40 mg of intravenous amisulpride, a single oral dose of moxifloxacin (400 mg), or placebo. Standardized meals, identical in all 4 periods, with similar nutritional value were served. Bedside ECG results confirmed that the moxifloxacin peak effect was delayed in the fed state and showed that the Fridericia corrected QT prolongation induced by moxifloxacin persisted until the end of the 24‐hour measurement period. The use of continuous Holter monitoring provided further insight, as it revealed that the moxifloxacin effect on QTc was influenced by diurnal and nocturnal environmental factors, and hysteresis effects were noticeable. The findings suggested that moxifloxacin prolongs QTc beyond its elimination from the blood circulation. This is of relevance to current concentration‐effect modeling approaches, which presume the absence of hysteresis effects.
Expert consensus statement on the science of HIV in the context of criminal law
Authors: Barré‐Sinoussi Françoise , Abdool Karim Salim S , Albert Jan , Bekker Linda‐Gail , Beyrer Chris , Cahn Pedro , Calmy Alexandra , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Grulich Andrew , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Loutfy Mona R , El Filali Kamal M , Mboup Souleymane , Montaner Julio SG , Munderi Paula , Pokrovsky Vadim , Vandamme Anne‐Mieke , Young Benjamin , Godfrey‐Faussett Peter
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Globally, prosecutions for non‐disclosure, exposure or transmission of HIV frequently relate to sexual activity, biting, or spitting. This includes instances in which no harm was intended, HIV transmission did not occur, and HIV transmission was extremely unlikely or not possible. This suggests prosecutions are not always guided by the best available scientific and medical evidence.

Discussion

Twenty scientists from regions across the world developed this Expert Consensus Statement to address the use of HIV science by the criminal justice system. A detailed analysis of the best available scientific and medical research data on HIV transmission, treatment effectiveness and forensic phylogenetic evidence was performed and described so it may be better understood in criminal law contexts. Description of the possibility of HIV transmission was limited to acts most often at issue in criminal cases. The possibility of HIV transmission during a single, specific act was positioned along a continuum of risk, noting that the possibility of HIV transmission varies according to a range of intersecting factors including viral load, condom use, and other risk reduction practices. Current evidence suggests the possibility of HIV transmission during a single episode of sex, biting or spitting ranges from no possibility to low possibility. Further research considered the positive health impact of modern antiretroviral therapies that have improved the life expectancy of most people living with HIV to a point similar to their HIV‐negative counterparts, transforming HIV infection into a chronic, manageable health condition. Lastly, consideration of the use of scientific evidence in court found that phylogenetic analysis alone cannot prove beyond reasonable doubt that one person infected another although it can be used to exonerate a defendant.

Conclusions

The application of up‐to‐date scientific evidence in criminal cases has the potential to limit unjust prosecutions and convictions. The authors recommend that caution be exercised when considering prosecution, and encourage governments and those working in legal and judicial systems to pay close attention to the significant advances in HIV science that have occurred over the last three decades to ensure current scientific knowledge informs application of the law in cases related to HIV.
Anti-TNF-α restricts dengue virus-induced neuropathy
Authors: Jhan Ming-Kai , HuangFu Wei-Chun , Chen Yi-Fan , Kao Jo-Chi , Tsai Tsung-Ting , Ho Min-Ru , Shen Ting-Jing , Tseng Po-Chun , Wang Yung-Ting , Lin Chiou-Feng
Published: July 2018

Proinflammatory TNF-α facilitates dengue virus (DENV) infection in endovascular dysfunction and neurotoxicity. The introduction of TNF-α blocking therapy with Abs is performed to test its therapeutic effect in this study. In DENV-infected mice, TNF-α production in the brain accompanied the progression of neurotoxicity and encephalitis. DENV infection caused the loss of hippocampal neurons with TNF-α expression around damaged regions, and immunostaining showed the induction of apoptosis in hippocampal neurons. TNF-α was expressed in active microglia and astrocytes in DENV-infected mice. TNF-α facilitated DENV-induced neurotoxicity in vitro in murine Neuro-2a cells. Using a currently established encephalitic mouse model in which DENV infection causes progressive hunchback posture, limbic seizures, limbic weakness, paralysis, and lethality 7 days postinfection, we showed that TNF-α transgenic mice represented the progressive disease development and administration of neutralizing TNF-α Ab reduced dengue encephalitis and mortality. These results demonstrate an immunopathogenesis of TNF-α for mediating DENV-induced encephalitis-associated neurotoxicity and that targeting TNF-α can be used as a strategy against dengue encephalitis.

Dengue virus infection induces TNF-α expression around the damaged neuronal cells in the brain while TNF-α blockade ameliorates dengue neurotoxicity and encephalitis.
Soil carbon and nitrogen stocks and physical properties under no‐till and conventional tillage cotton‐based systems in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Souza Leticia Helena Campos , Matos Eduardo da Silva , Magalhães Ciro Augusto de Souza , de la Torre Élio R. , Lamas Fernando Mendes , Lal Rattan
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate soil C and N stocks and soil physical properties under a cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) based system using no‐till (NT) and conventional tillage (CT). The experiment was established as a randomized block design with four replications of six treatments as follows: [NT1], NT system with crop rotation of cotton/soybean (Glycine max)/maize (Zea mays) + brachiaria (Brachiaria ruziziensis); [NT2], NT system with crop rotation of soybean/maize + brachiaria/cotton; [NT3], NT system with crop rotation of maize + brachiaria/cotton/soybean; [CR1], CT with annual rotation (soybean/cotton); and [CR2], CT with biannual rotation (soybean/soybean/cotton) and [CT1] CT with cotton monoculture. An area of native Cerrado vegetation was used as the reference or baseline. Soil samples were obtained from 0‐ to 5‐, 5‐ to 10‐, 10‐ to 20‐, 20‐ to 30‐, 30‐ to 60‐, and 60‐ to 100‐cm depths. After 9 years of cultivation, soil under NT systems contained higher C concentrations than those under CT (p < 0.05); however, significant differences were restricted to the 0‐ to 5‐cm layer. Stocks of C and N in the 0‐ to 30‐cm depth ranged from 36.2 to 39.8 Mg ha−1 and from 2.00 to 2.22 Mg ha−1, respectively. Despite higher C concentration in the upper layer, NT treatments (NT1, NT2, and NT3) had soil C stocks similar to those of CR1 and CT1. In comparison with Cerrado, C stocks in soil under all cultivated treatments were reduced by 27% in the top 1‐m depth, which represents a C loss of 35 Mg C ha−1 upon conversion from the Cerrado to cultivated land. The least soil bulk density among all treatments was observed for NT1. However, there were no differences in macroporosity and microporosity among NT and CT systems even after 9 years of cultivation. In comparison with CT, principal benefits of NT systems for C sequestration and soil physical improvements are restricted to the surface layer.
Strategies for publishing in English journals: A study of the perceptions of Iranian scholars
Authors: Maniati Mahmood , Jalilifar Alireza
Published: July 2018

One of the difficulties in scholarly publishing in English scientific journals is the complex process of revision, which often involves reconstruction of the content and the language of the manuscript and becomes particularly difficult when it comes to non‐native writers of English. Focusing mainly on the role of English and language editing in revision, the present study investigated this process in terms of the Iranian scholars’ perceptions, problems, and strategies. To this end, 15 Iranian scholars from different disciplines were selected and interviewed, and different themes were derived and analysed. According to the premise of Academic Literacies and the idea that we acquire the skills and practices of our professions mainly by participating in them, our results introduced revision as a set of social practices located within a specific academic structure reflecting particular beliefs and values. Our results also showed that the very specific situation in Iran caused the participants to be, at a great extent, overwhelmed by the process, often leading them to adopt strategies that might not be conducive to their academic advancement.
Plasma polymer films to regulate fibrinogen adsorption: Effect of pressure and competition with human serum albumin
Authors: Buddhadasa Madhuwanthi , Lerouge Sophie , Girard‐Lauriault Pierre‐Luc
Published: July 2018

Low‐pressure plasma‐deposited C2H4 and C4H6 films containing N‐ and O‐groups, are used to regulate fibrinogen (Fg) adsorption in the presence of human serum albumin (HSA), with the long‐term intention of achieving control over platelet activation. This work includes a study of the effect of pressure on the films’ surface chemistry, stability in phosphate buffer solution (PBS), and Fg adsorption. Tribometry tests against a polyethylene surface, in PBS, indicated that N‐rich films were more susceptible to wear than the O‐rich coating. Adsorption kinetics showed a distinct peak which suggested a multilayer formation of HSA owing to adsorption from a highly concentrated solution. Results conclude that Fg adsorption in the presence of a high concentration of HSA can still be regulated by the careful choice of film surface chemistry.
Advanced paternal age alone does not adversely affect pregnancy or live‐birth rates or sperm parameters following intrauterine insemination
Authors: Tatsumi Takayuki , Ishida Eri , Tatsumi Kuniko , Okada Yumiko , Saito Takakazu , Kubota Toshiro , Saito Hidekazu
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of advanced paternal age on pregnancy outcomes and sperm parameters following intrauterine insemination (IUI). We used IUI data rather than assisted reproductive technology data, which might mask the effects of sperm impairments.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 1576 IUI cycles in women under 40 years old between April 2012 and May 2016 at the National Center for Child Health and Development in Japan. The main outcomes were clinical pregnancy and live birth.

Results

The mean male age was significantly lower in cycles that resulted in pregnancy compared with those without pregnancy (38.0 vs 39.1 years; P < 0.001), with a similar trend for live‐birth cycles. However, there was no relationship between advanced paternal age and pregnancy outcomes after adjusting for confounding factors and correlations within patients using generalized estimating equations, and the age of the female partner was the only factor affecting pregnancy rate. Furthermore, advanced paternal age had no effect on sperm parameters.

Conclusions

Advanced paternal age alone does not adversely affect pregnancy or live‐birth rates or sperm parameters following IUI.
NiFe‐LDH Grown on Three‐Dimensional Cu3P Nano‐Array for Highly Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Zhao Pingping , Nie Hanqiu , Zhou Zirui , Wang Jianbo , Cheng Gongzhen
Published: July 2018

Electrocatalysts of highly efficient activity and good stability based on earth‐abundant elements for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are crucially important for the utilization of water splitting and metal‐air batteries. Herein, we explored a facile synthesis of NiFe‐LDH (layered double hydroxide) grown on Cu3P nano‐array by simply solvothermal method. Thanks to the synergistic effect of NiFe‐LDH and Cu3P array, the as‐synthesized Cu3P@NiFe‐LDH/CF exhibited a high electric conductance and a larger double‐layer capacitance, which makes it an excellent nonprecious OER catalyst. The catalytic performance of Cu3P@NiFe‐LDH/CF toward OER exhibited a lowest onset potential (ca. 1.440 V), and a much lower overpotential of 235 mV at the current density of 10 mA cm−2.
Heterometallic Coordination Polymers with Pyrazine 2,6‐Dicarboxamide: Sequential Metallation of Co(III) and Ag(I)
Authors: Prusty Sidheswari , Purohit Chandra Shekhar
Published: July 2018

A series of heterometallic complexes with Co(III) and Ag(I) were prepared by stepwise method. We have utilised 2, 6‐pyrazine dicarboxamide appended with pyridines as building blocks. The pyrazine along with amides act as site for octahedral Co(III) ion, whereas the pyridine part extends the coordination to Ag(I). In the case of 4‐pyridine appended ligand, both pyridine and pyrazine coordinates to Ag(I). Out of three complexes, two were studied in solid state. Among these, one i. e. (5 a) [Co(L1)2]Ag3 is coordinated to three Ag(I) and other i. e. (5 b) [Co(L2)2]Ag.2H2O has an unusual penta‐ coordinated Ag(I). One of the ligand is also studied for Ag(I) coordination in solid state i. e.(3) Ag(H2L1).NO3.2(H2O).
Near Infrared Boron Dipyrromethene Nanoparticles for Optotheranostics
Authors: Huang Ling , Han Gang
Published: July 2018

Boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) is a class of important emerging fluorescent dyes. Due to their unique chemical and optical properties, near infrared (NIR)‐emitting BODIPY dyes containing nanoparticles have recently been developed for a wide array of cutting‐edge cancer optotheranostic applications. These nanoparticles not only have robust photostability and tunable photophysical properties, but they can also be flexibly tailored to a multitude of functional uses. Based on these outstanding characteristics, such nanoparticles have shown great promise in diagnosis as biological sensors, as well as in their utilization in advanced imaging and photomedicine for cancer treatment. In particular, here, this study first discusses their use as photoswitchable fluorescence probes toward in vitro single‐molecule imaging. Second, this study takes a look at their opportunities for photoacoustic imaging utilization. Third, approaches are discussed to construct new NIR‐absorbing BODIPY nanoparticles for photodynamic therapy (PDT). Fourth, this study delves into the new approach to use such nanoparticles as an emerging version of triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA‐UC) and their biological uses, such as their photoactivation prodrug therapy (PAPT) for cancer. Finally, new biological sensors based on NIR BODIPY nanoparticles are introduced.
Binding Nanosized Cobalt Chalcogenides in B,N‐Codoped Graphene for Enhanced Sodium Storage
Authors: Cheng Xiaolong , Li Dongjun , Liu Fanfan , Xu Rui , Yu Yan
Published: July 2018

A general process is developed to prepare binding nanosized cobalt chalcogenides in B,N‐codoped graphene (CoSe2/BNG and CoS2/BNG). When used as anodes for sodium‐ion batteries, the CoSe2/BNG and CoS2/BNG deliver excellent sodium‐storage performance. The CoSe2/BNG displays a reversible capacity of 270 mAh g−1 after 2000 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. Even at 20 A g−1, it can still give a capacity of 187 mAh g−1. Moreover, the CoS2/BNG shows 387 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1, demonstrating its superior high rate performance. The enhanced sodium‐storage properties of the CoSe2/BNG and CoS2/BNG nanocomposites may be attributed to the high conductive graphene network, enhanced sodium storage of B,N‐codoping in graphene, and the small CoSe2 and CoS2 nanocrystallites that shorten the electronic and ionic diffusion length throughout the electrode.
A variant of 3-3-1 model for the generation of the SM fermion mass and mixing pattern
Authors: Hernández A. E. Cárcamo , Kovalenko Sergey , Long H. N. , Schmidt Ivan
Published: July 2018

Abstract

We propose an extension of the 3-3-1 model with an additional symmetry group

$$ {Z}_2\times {Z}_4\times \mathrm{U}{(1)}_{L_g} $$

Z
2

×

Z
4

×
U

1

L
g

and an extended scalar sector. To our best knowledge this is the first example of a renormalizable 3-3-1 model, which allows explanation the SM fermion mass hierarchy by a sequential loop suppression: tree-level top and exotic fermion masses, 1-loop bottom, charm, tau and muon masses; 2-loop masses for the light up, down, strange quarks as well as for the electron. The light active neutrino masses are generated from a combination of linear and inverse seesaw mechanisms at two loop level. The model also has viable fermionic and scalar dark matter candidates.