bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient isolation method for high‐quality genomic DNA from cicada exuviae
Authors: Nguyen Hoa Quynh , Kim Ye Inn , Borzée Amaël , Jang Yikweon
Published: September 2017

In recent years, animal ethics issues have led researchers to explore nondestructive methods to access materials for genetic studies. Cicada exuviae are among those materials because they are cast skins that individuals left after molt and are easily collected. In this study, we aim to identify the most efficient extraction method to obtain high quantity and quality of DNA from cicada exuviae. We compared relative DNA yield and purity of six extraction protocols, including both manual protocols and available commercial kits, extracting from four different exoskeleton parts. Furthermore, amplification and sequencing of genomic DNA were evaluated in terms of availability of sequencing sequence at the expected genomic size. Both the choice of protocol and exuvia part significantly affected DNA yield and purity. Only samples that were extracted using the PowerSoil DNA Isolation kit generated gel bands of expected size as well as successful sequencing results. The failed attempts to extract DNA using other protocols could be partially explained by a low DNA yield from cicada exuviae and partly by contamination with humic acids that exist in the soil where cicada nymphs reside before emergence, as shown by spectroscopic measurements. Genomic DNA extracted from cicada exuviae could provide valuable information for species identification, allowing the investigation of genetic diversity across consecutive broods, or spatiotemporal variation among various populations. Consequently, we hope to provide a simple method to acquire pure genomic DNA applicable for multiple research purposes.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic H2O2 Production on g‐C3N4 Loaded with CoP as a Noble Metal Free Cocatalyst
Authors: Peng Yulan , Wang Lingzhi , Liu Yongdi , Chen Haijun , Lei Juying , Zhang Jinlong
Published: September 2017

A composite catalyst combining CoP with g‐C3N4 was explored for the photocatalytic production of H2O2 under visible‐light irradiation. The composite catalyst was fabricated by growth of CoP nanoparticles on the surface of g‐C3N4. The CoP nanoparticles were well dispersed on the surface of g‐C3N4 and could interact with g‐C3N4 to improve charge separation and electron transfer. The composite catalyst showed superior catalytic activity compared with pure CoP or g‐C3N4 under visible‐light irradiation. The optimal catalyst with 1.76 wt.‐% CoP loading exhibited the best photocatalytic efficiency with an H2O2 production of 140 µm in 2 h, which is about 4.6 and 23.3 times those of pure g‐C3N4 and pure CoP, respectively. A possible mechanism for the visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic production of H2O2 is proposed. The composite catalyst exhibited stable performance without obvious loss of catalytic activity after seven successive runs, and thus has good application prospects in sustainable H2O2 production.
Synthesis and Structures of Sterically Encumbered Group 14 Monolithio Compounds and Unexpected Differences in Their Reactivity
Authors: Pop Lucian‐Cristian , Kurokawa Nobuaki , Ebata Hiroaki , Tomizawa Katsuya , Tajima Tomoyuki , Saito Masaichi
Published: September 2017

Group 14 monolithio compounds with sterically encumbered terphenyl ligands, ArM14(SiHMe2)2Li [M14 = Si, Ge, Sn; Ar = 2,6‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)phenyl and 2,6‐bis(2,4,6‐triisopropylphenyl)phenyl], were prepared by transmetalation reactions of ArM14(SiHMe2)3 with methyllithium, the structures of which were established by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The monolithiosilanes and monolithiogermanes reacted with iodomethane and trichlorophosphane to afford the corresponding monomethylated and dichlorophosphane‐substituted derivatives, respectively. However, surprisingly, the reactions of monolithiostannanes with iodomethane and trichlorophosphane provided trimethylstannane and trichlorostannane, respectively.
Zn2GeO4:Mn2+,Yb3+ Based Near‐Infrared Down‐Conversion Nanophosphors: Size‐Tunable Synthesis and Fabrication of Flexible, Transparent and Luminescent Thin Film
Authors: Yang Fangdan , Wang Tianren , Wang Song , Wang Yige , Li Huanrong
Published: September 2017

In this work, a series of Zn1.96–xGeO4+1/2x:Mn0.04Ybx (x = 0.004, 0.04, 0.08 and 0.4) nanophosphors with a tunable morphology and particle size have been prepared by a solvothermal method, showing brilliant near‐infrared (NIR) down‐conversion performance through the energy transfer from Mn2+ to Yb3+ ions, as well as good solvent dispersability. This makes them suitable for preparing flexible, transparent and luminescent PMMA thin films by the drop‐casting method. This approach might open a new avenue for preparing inorganic nanophosphors as well as the corresponding thin films with efficient and easy manipulation.
The impact of acknowledgement and denial of responsibility for harm on victim groups' perceptions of justice, power, and intergroup attitudes
Authors: Iqbal Yeshim , Bilali Rezarta
Published: September 2017

Acknowledgement of responsibility for in‐group harmdoing is considered a precondition for reconciliation. However, we know little about its impact on victim groups. Using a mixed methods approach, in two studies in Bangladesh we examined the role of acknowledgement and denial of responsibility on intergroup outcomes. Study 1 used an open‐ended survey to assess Bangladeshis' perceptions about acknowledgement and denial of responsibility for the mass violence committed by the Pakistani army on Bangladeshis during the 1971 war. Study 2 experimentally examined the effects and the potential mechanisms (emotional reactions, perceived injustice, and relative power) through which acknowledgement and denial of responsibility impact two intergroup outcomes: out‐group animosity and willingness for contact. Both studies demonstrated the importance of anger and perceived injustice as mediators of the effects of acknowledgement and denial of responsibility on intergroup outcomes. We draw implications for theory and for strategies to address past victimization across different contexts of conflict.
What's in an accent? General spontaneous biases against nonnative accents: An investigation with conceptual and auditory IATs
Authors: Roessel Janin , Schoel Christiane , Stahlberg Dagmar
Published: September 2017

Nonnative accents are prevalent in our globalized world and constitute highly salient cues in social perception. Whereas previous literature has commonly assumed that they cue specific social group stereotypes, we propose that nonnative accents generally trigger spontaneous negatively biased associations (due to a general nonnative accent category and perceptual influences). Accordingly, Study 1 demonstrates negative biases with conceptual IATs, targeting the general concepts of accent versus native speech, on the dimensions affect, trust, and competence, but not on sociability. Study 2 attests to negative, largely enhanced biases on all dimensions with auditory IATs comprising matched native–nonnative speaker pairs for four accent types. Biases emerged irrespective of the accent types that differed in attractiveness, recognizability of origin, and origin‐linked national associations. Study 3 replicates general IAT biases with an affect IAT and a conventional evaluative IAT. These findings corroborate our hypotheses and assist in understanding general negativity toward nonnative accents.
Influence diagnostics in spatial models with censored response
Authors: Lachos Víctor H. , Matos Larissa A. , Barbosa Thais S. , Garay Aldo M. , Dey Dipak K.
Published: September 2017

Environmental data are often spatially correlated and sometimes include observations below or above detection limits (i.e., censored values reported as less or more than a level of detection). Existing research studies mainly concentrate on parameter estimation using Gibbs sampling, and most research studies conducted from a frequentist perspective in spatial censored models are elusive. In this paper, we propose an exact estimation procedure to obtain the maximum‐likelihood estimates of fixed effects and variance components, using a stochastic approximation of the expectation–maximization algorithm (Delyon, Lavielle, & Moulines). This approach permits estimation of the parameters of spatial linear models when censoring is present in an easy and fast way. As a by‐product, predictions of unobservable values of the response variable are possible. Motivated by this algorithm, we develop local and global influence measures on the basis of the conditional expectation of the complete‐data log‐likelihood function, which eliminates the complexity associated with the approach of Cook for spatial censored models. Some useful perturbation schemes are discussed. The newly developed method is illustrated using data from a dioxin‐contaminated site in Missouri that contain left‐censored data and a data set related to the depths of a geological horizon that contains both left‐ and right‐censored observations. In addition, a simulation study is presented that explores the accuracy of the proposed measures in detecting influential observations under different perturbation schemes. The methodology addressed in this paper is implemented in the R packageCensSpatial.
Spatiotemporal multiresolution modeling to infill missing areal data and enhance the temporal frequency of infrared satellite images
Authors: Collins G. Q. , Heaton M. J. , Hu L. , Monaghan A. J.
Published: September 2017

High‐resolution environmental observations from satellite remote sensing are useful for gaining insight into climate variability over large regions of the earth. However, data products derived from infrared remote sensing can have large amounts of missing data due to periodic cloud cover obscuring the earth's surface. In addition, these products are commonly derived from instruments aboard polar‐orbiting satellites, which make relatively infrequent passes over each region of the planet, leaving large blocks of data that are missing in time. The goal of this research is to overcome these issues by spatially and temporally infilling temperature data using satellite observations. To accomplish this, we propose novel statistical modeling techniques to account for dissonance between the areal spatial support of the data and the continuous temporal domain. In addition, we develop a novel multiresolution approach that accommodates the large spatial dimensionality of high‐resolution satellite images. The result of our work is a computationally efficient methodology that provides the means to infill satellite data products both spatially and temporally. The methodology is demonstrated using land surface temperature fields from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument onboard NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, over Harris County, Texas, USA.
Using the size and position of drumlins to understand how they grow, interact and evolve
Authors: Ely Jeremy C. , Clark Chris D. , Spagnolo Matteo , Hughes Anna L.C. , Stokes Chris R.
Published: September 2017

Drumlins are subglacial bedforms streamlined in the direction of ice flow. Common in deglaciated landscapes, they have been widely studied providing rich information on their internal geology, size, shape, and spacing. In contrast with bedform investigations elsewhere in geomorphology (aeolian and fluvial dunes and ripples for example) most drumlin studies derive observations from relict, and thus static features. This has made it difficult to gain information and insights about their evolution over time, which likely hampers our understanding of the process(es) of drumlin formation. Here we take a morphological approach, studying drumlin size and spacing metrics. Unlike previous studies which have focussed on databases derived from entire ice sheet beds, we adopt a space‐for‐time substitution approach using individual drumlin flow‐sets distributed in space as proxies for different development times/periods. Framed and assisted by insights from aeolian and fluvial geomorphology, we use our metric data to explore possible scenarios of drumlin growth, evolution and interaction. We study the metrics of the size and spacing of 36 222 drumlins, distributed amongst 71 flow‐sets, left behind by the former British‐Irish Ice Sheet, and ask whether behaviour common to other bedform phenomena can be derived through statistical analysis. Through characterizing and analysing the shape of the probability distribution functions of size and spacing metrics for each flow‐set we argue that drumlins grow, and potentially migrate, as they evolve leading to pattern coarsening. Furthermore, our findings add support to the notion that no upper limit to drumlin size exists, and to the idea that perpetual coarsening could occur if given sufficient time. We propose that the framework of process and patterning commonly applied to non‐glacial bedforms is potentially powerful for understanding drumlin formation and for deciphering glacial landscapes. © 2017 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Wave transformation across a macrotidal shore platform under low to moderate energy conditions
Authors: Stephenson Wayne J. , Naylor Larissa A. , Smith Helen , Chen Bin , Brayne Ralph P.
Published: September 2017

We investigate how waves are transformed across a shore platform as this is a central question in rock coast geomorphology. We present results from deployment of three pressure transducers over four days, across a sloping, wide (~200 m) cliff‐backed shore platform in a macrotidal setting, in South Wales, United Kingdom. Cross‐shore variations in wave heights were evident under the predominantly low to moderate (significant wave height < 1.4 m) energy conditions measured. At the outer transducer 50 m from the seaward edge of the platform (163 m from the cliff) high tide water depths were 8+ m meaning that waves crossed the shore platform without breaking. At the mid‐platform position water depth was 5 m. Water depth at the inner transducer (6 m from the cliff platform junction) at high tide was 1.4 m. This shallow water depth forced wave breaking, thereby limiting wave heights on the inner platform. Maximum wave height at the middle and inner transducers were 2.41 and 2.39 m, respectively, and significant wave height 1.35 m and 1.34 m, respectively. Inner platform high tide wave heights were generally larger where energy was up to 335% greater than near the seaward edge where waves were smaller. Infragravity energy was less than 13% of the total energy spectra with energy in the swell, wind and capillary frequencies accounting for 87% of the total energy. Wave transformation is thus spatially variable and is strongly modulated by platform elevation and the tidal range. While shore platforms in microtidal environments have been shown to be highly dissipative, in this macro‐tidal setting up to 90% of the offshore wave energy reached the landward cliff at high tide, so that the shore platform cliff is much more reflective. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy‐efficient active offloading with collaboration communication and power allocations for heterogeneous ultradense networks
Authors: Xu Xiaodong , Yuan Chunjing , Li Jianhui , Tao Xiaofeng
Published: September 2017

For the booming capacity requirements for the 5th generation mobile communication system (5G) to be supported, heterogeneous ultradense network (H‐UDN) is believed as a promising solution. The corresponding standardization and filed deployments of H‐UDN have been conducted. But the lower energy efficiency and severer interferences caused by densely deployed base stations (BSs) are still the 2 main obstacles for H‐UDNs. This paper addresses on above challenges and proposes active green offloading (AGO) strategy with collaboration communications to improve the system energy efficiency and decrease interferences. We propose the auction theory–based AGO for energy efficient objectives, which provides flexible user associations for H‐UDNs. Furthermore, aiming to guarantee the offloaded user performances and decrease interferences, we explore the collaboration communications with introducing the strongest interfering BS into the coordinated transmission BS set. This will change the interference signal into useful signal and then decreases interferences. Moreover, we introduce the supermodel game–based power allocation for further improvements of system energy efficiency after collaboration communications. Simulation results evaluate the 3‐stage improvements of system energy efficiency achieved by AGO, collaboration communications, and power allocation separately, which proves the benefits of AGO in H‐UDNs.
Oxidation behavior of carbon steel in simulated kerosene combustion atmosphere: A valuable tool for fire investigations
Authors: Xie Dongbai , Shan Guo , Lv Shilei
Published: September 2017

Fire investigations aim to establish the origin and cause of fires by collecting and analyzing the comprehensive fire‐related evidences. Metallic materials exposed to the fire scene environments are usually subjected to melting and/or high‐temperature oxidation, and they have been considered vital parameters for temperature determination, as recommended in NFPA 921. The oxide characteristics obtained from the conventional fire investigations primarily rely on simple visual observations such as the variations in oxide color, the so‐called “oxidation patterns.” However, such information is not sufficiently convincing due to the complex nature of oxides formed in the fire scene. The oxide color is strongly affected by the type of oxide, the oxide thickness, the concentration of contaminant, and the interactions among different oxides. In this study, Q235 structural steel samples have been exposed to high‐temperature air and simulated kerosene combustion conditions at certain temperatures and for indicated periods. The oxidation rate was examined by thermogravimetric analysis. The morphologies and microstructures of the oxide scales were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffractions. The results show that the oxide properties are strongly dependent on the oxidation temperature and oxidation atmospheres. These oxidation behaviors are expected to provide useful information on identifying fire characteristics.
Multilayer open flow model: A simple pressure correction method for wave problems
Authors: Prokofev Vladimir
Published: September 2017

This paper describes a pressure correction method for single‐ and multilayer open flow models. The method does not require any complex procedures to solve the discretization of the Poisson equation and is distinguished by a high computational efficiency. The algorithm can easily be adapted to irregular meshes and parallelized. Parabolic interpolation of the pressure profile is used for the free surface. The discretization of the Poisson equation is written in a matrix form, allowing its usage also in the case of basic function expansion of the depth pressure profile. The paper presents the results of algorithm verification where experimental data sensitive to the numerical dissipation of the calculation model was used. Iteration convergence is high including problems with dry‐bed flooding. The complete described technique of pressure correction is implemented in OpenCL on the GPU. Computation time for a test problem solved using CPU and GPU is compared.
“Enticing case study” or “celebrated anomaly”? Policy learning from the Cuban health system
Authors: Baggott Rob , Lambie George
Published: September 2017

Cuba is regarded as having achieved very good health outcomes for its level of economic development. It has adopted policies and programs that focus on prevention, universal access to healthcare, a strong primary care system, the integration of health in all policies, and public participation in health. It has also established a strong and accessible system of medical education and provides substantial medical aid and support to other countries. Why then, it may be asked, has the Cuban experience not had greater influence on health policies and reforms elsewhere? This article, based on a literature review and new primary sources, analyzes various factors highlighted in the policy transfer literature to explain this. It also notes other factors that have created greater awareness of Cuban health achievements in some countries and which provide a basis for learning lessons from its policies.
Alcohol consumption and bladder cancer risk with or without the flushing response: The Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study
Authors: Masaoka Hiroyuki , Matsuo Keitaro , Sawada Norie , Yamaji Taiki , Goto Atsushi , Shimazu Taichi , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Eto Masatoshi , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   for the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study Group
Published: September 2017

The association between alcohol consumption and bladder cancer risk has been insufficiently investigated in East Asian populations, who frequently have the inactive enzyme for metabolizing acetaldehyde. Given that acetaldehyde associated with alcohol consumption is assessed as a carcinogen, consideration of differences in acetaldehyde exposure would aid accuracy in assessing the bladder cancer risk associated with alcohol consumption. Here, we conducted a population‐based cohort study in Japan to examine this association, including information on the flushing response as a surrogate marker of the capacity of acetaldehyde metabolism. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. During follow up from 1990 through 2012 for the 95,915 subjects (45,649 men and 50,266 women, aged 40–69 years), 354 men and 110 women were newly diagnosed with bladder cancer. No significant association between alcohol consumption and bladder cancer risk was observed in the overall analysis. Among male flushers, HRs were 1.04 (95% CI 0.70–1.54), 1.67 (1.16–2.42), 1.02 (0.62–1.67) and 0.63 (0.33–1.20) for alcohol consumption of 1–150, 151–300, 301–450, >450 g/week of pure ethanol compared with non‐drinkers and occasional drinkers, respectively, indicating an inverted U‐shaped association between alcohol consumption and bladder cancer risk. In contrast, no significant association was identified among male non‐flushers. The marginally significant interaction between alcohol consumption and the flushing response (p for interaction = 0.083) may support our hypothesis that acetaldehyde derived from alcohol consumption is associated with bladder cancer risk. A prospective study considering polymorphisms of genes involved in acetaldehyde metabolism is warranted.
G protein‐coupled receptor GPR55 promotes colorectal cancer and has opposing effects to cannabinoid receptor 1
Authors: Hasenoehrl Carina , Feuersinger David , Sturm Eva M , Bärnthaler Thomas , Heitzer Ellen , Graf Ricarda , Grill Magdalena , Pichler Martin , Beck Stephan , Butcher Lee , Thomas Dominique , Ferreirós Nerea , Schuligoi Rufina , Schweiger Caroline , Haybaeck Johannes , Schicho Rudolf
Published: September 2017

The putative cannabinoid receptor GPR55 has been shown to play a tumor‐promoting role in various cancers, and is involved in many physiological and pathological processes of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) has been reported to suppress intestinal tumor growth, the role of GPR55 in the development of GI cancers is unclear. We, therefore, aimed at elucidating the role of GPR55 in colorectal cancer (CRC), the third most common cancer worldwide. Using azoxymethane (AOM)‐ and dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐driven CRC mouse models, we found that GPR55 plays a tumor‐promoting role that involves alterations of leukocyte populations, i.e. myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and T lymphocytes, within the tumor tissues. Concomitantly, expression levels of COX‐2 and STAT3 were reduced in tumor tissue of GPR55 knockout mice, indicating reduced presence of tumor‐promoting factors. By employing the experimental CRC models to CB1 knockout and CB1/GPR55 double knockout mice, we can further show that GPR55 plays an opposing role to CB1. We report that GPR55 and CB1 mRNA expression are differentially regulated in the experimental models and in a cohort of 86 CRC patients. Epigenetic methylation of CNR1 and GPR55 was also differentially regulated in human CRC tissue compared to control samples. Collectively, our data suggest that GPR55 and CB1 play differential roles in colon carcinogenesis where the former seems to act as oncogene and the latter as tumor suppressor.
Socioeconomic position, population density and site‐specific cancer mortality: A multilevel analysis of Belgian adults, 2001–2011
Authors: Hagedoorn Paulien , Vandenheede Hadewijch , Vanthomme Katrien , Gadeyne Sylvie
Published: September 2017

Our study explores the association between individual and neighborhood socioeconomic position (SEP) and all‐cancer and site‐specific cancer mortality. Data on all Belgian residents are retrieved from a population‐based dataset constructed from the 2001 census linked to register data on emigration and mortality for 2001–2011. The study population contains all men and women aged 40 years or older during follow‐up. Individual SEP is measured using education, employment status and housing conditions. Neighborhood SEP is measured by a deprivation index (in quintiles). Directly age‐standardized mortality rates and multilevel Poisson models are used to estimate the association between individual SEP and neighborhood deprivation and mortality from all‐cancer and cancer of the lung, colon and rectum, pancreas, prostate and female breast. The potential confounding role of population density is assessed using multilevel models as well. Our findings show an increase in mortality from all‐cancer and site‐specific cancer by decreasing level of individual SEP for both men and women. In addition, individuals living in highly deprived neighborhoods experience significantly higher mortality from all‐cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer and female colorectal cancer after controlling for individual SEP. Male colorectal and prostate cancer and female breast cancer are not associated with neighborhood deprivation. Population density acts as a confounder for female lung cancer only. Our study indicates that deprivation at both the individual and neighborhood level is associated with all‐cancer mortality and mortality from several cancer sites. More research into the role of life‐style related and clinical factors is necessary to gain more insight into causal pathway.
RGD‐functionalized polyethylene glycol hydrogels support proliferation and in vitro chondrogenesis of human periosteum‐derived cells
Authors: Kudva Abhijith K. , Luyten Frank P. , Patterson Jennifer
Published: September 2017

The combination of progenitor cells with appropriate scaffolds and in vitro culture regimes is a promising area of research in bone and cartilage tissue engineering. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), when encapsulated within hydrogels composed of the necessary cues and/or preconditioned using suitable culture conditions, have been shown to differentiate into bone or cartilage. Here, we utilized human periosteum‐derived cells (hPDCs), a progenitor cell population with MSC characteristics, paired with protease‐degradable, functionalized polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels to create tissue‐engineered constructs. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of scaffold composition, exploring the addition of the cell‐binding motif Arginine‐Glycine‐Aspartic Acid (RGD), in combination with various in vitro culture conditions on the proliferation, chondrogenic gene expression, and matrix production of encapsulated hPDCs. In growth medium, the hPDCs in the RGD‐functionalized hydrogels maintained high levels of viability and demonstrated an enhanced proliferation when compared with hPDCs in non‐functionalized hydrogels. Additionally, the RGD‐containing hydrogels promoted higher glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis and chondrogenic gene expression of the encapsulated hPDCs, as opposed to the non‐functionalized constructs, when cultured in two different chondrogenic media. These results demonstrate the potential of hPDCs in combination with enzymatically degradable PEG hydrogels functionalized with adhesion ligands for cartilage regenerative applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 33–42, 2018.
Neuronal differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells in response to the domain size of graphene substrates
Authors: Lee Yoo‐Jung , Seo Tae Hoon , Lee Seula , Jang Wonhee , Kim Myung Jong , Sung Jung‐Suk
Published: September 2017

Graphene is a noncytotoxic monolayer platform with unique physical, chemical, and biological properties. It has been demonstrated that graphene substrate may provide a promising biocompatible scaffold for stem cell therapy. Because chemical vapor deposited graphene has a two dimensional polycrystalline structure, it is important to control the individual domain size to obtain desirable properties for nano‐material. However, the biological effects mediated by differences in domain size of graphene have not yet been reported. On the basis of the control of graphene domain achieved by one‐step growth (1step‐G, small domain) and two‐step growth (2step‐G, large domain) process, we found that the neuronal differentiation of bone marrow‐derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) highly depended on the graphene domain size. The defects at the domain boundaries in 1step‐G graphene was higher (×8.5) and had a relatively low (13% lower) contact angle of water droplet than 2step‐G graphene, leading to enhanced cell‐substrate adhesion and upregulated neuronal differentiation of hMSCs. We confirmed that the strong interactions between cells and defects at the domain boundaries in 1step‐G graphene can be obtained due to their relatively high surface energy, which is stronger than interactions between cells and graphene surfaces. Our results may provide valuable information on the development of graphene‐based scaffold by understanding which properties of graphene domain influence cell adhesion efficacy and stem cell differentiation. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 43–51, 2018.
Enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration through asymmetrically porous nerve guide conduit with nerve growth factor gradient
Authors: Oh Se Heang , Kang Jun Goo , Kim Tae Ho , Namgung Uk , Song Kyu Sang , Jeon Byeong Hwa , Lee Jin Ho
Published: September 2017

In this study, we fabricated a nerve guide conduit (NGC) with nerve growth factor (NGF) gradient along the longitudinal direction by rolling a porous polycaprolactone membrane with NGF concentration gradient. The NGF immobilized on the membrane was continuously released for up to 35 days, and the released amount of the NGF from the membrane gradually increased from the proximal to distal NGF ends, which may allow a neurotrophic factor gradient in the tubular NGC for a sufficient period. From the in vitro cell culture experiment, it was observed that the PC12 cells sense the NGF concentration gradient on the membrane for the cell proliferation and differentiation. From the in vivo animal experiment using a long gap (20 mm) sciatic nerve defect model of rats, the NGC with NGF concentration gradient allowed more rapid nerve regeneration through the NGC than the NGC itself and NGC immobilized with uniformly distributed NGF. The NGC with NGF concentration gradient seems to be a promising strategy for the peripheral nerve regeneration. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 52–64, 2018.
Alginate hydrogels of varied molecular weight distribution enable sustained release of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate and promote angiogenesis
Authors: Williams Priscilla A. , Campbell Kevin T. , Silva Eduardo A.
Published: September 2017

Alginate hydrogels have been widely validated for controlled release of growth factors and cytokines, but studies exploring sustained release of small hydrophobic lipids are lacking. Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), a bioactive lipid, is an appealing small molecule for inducing blood vessel formation in the context of ischemic conditions. However, there are numerous biological and engineering challenges associated with designing biomaterial systems for controlled release of this lipid. Thus, the objective of this study was to design an injectable, alginate hydrogel formulation that provides controlled release of S1P to establish locally sustained concentration gradients that promote neovascularization. Herein, we varied the molecular weight distribution of alginate polymers within the hydrogel to alter the resultant mechanical properties in a manner that provides control over S1P release. With increasing high molecular weight (HMW) content, the hydrogels exhibited stiffer material properties and released S1P at slower rates. Accordingly, S1P released from hydrogels with 100% HMW content led to enhanced directed migration of outgrowth endothelial cells and blood vessel development assessed using a chick chorioallantoic membrane assay as compared to hydrogels with less HMW content. Overall, this study describes how alginate hydrogels of varied molecular weight may be used to control S1P release kinetics for therapeutic applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 138–146, 2018.
On the Existence of HeHe Bond in the Endohedral Fullerene Hе2@C60
Authors: Yu. Nikolaienko Tymofii , Kryachko Eugene S. , Dolgonos Grygoriy A.
Published: September 2017

Twenty years have already been passed since the endohedral fullerene's void ceaselessly attracts attention of both, experimentalists and theoreticians, computational chemists and physicists in particular, who direct their efforts on computer simulations of encapsulating atoms and molecules into fullerene void and on unraveling the arising bonding patterns. We review recent developments on the endohedral He2@C60 fullerene, on its experimental observation and on related computational works. The two latter are the main concerns in the present work: on the one hand, there experimentally exists the He dimer embedded into C60 void. On the other, computational side, each He atom exhibits a negligible charge transfer to C60 resulting in that altogether, the He dimer exists as a fractionally charged (He+δ)2. Whether there exists a bond between these two helium atoms is the key question of the present work. Since a bond is a two‐body creature, we assert that it suffices to define the bond on the basis of Löwdin's postulate of a molecule which we invoke to investigate such formation of the He dimer in a given C60 void in terms of the HeHe potential energy well. It is analytically demonstrated that this well enables to maintain at least one bound (ground) state, and therefore, according to Löwdin's postulate which is naturally anticipated within quantum theory, we infer that (He+δ)2 is a molecule, a diatomic, where two heliums are bonded to each other. Using these arguments, we also propose to extend the concept of stability of endohedral fullerenes. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Ionic‐Liquid‐Based Microwave‐Assisted Extraction from Polygonum minus and Photodegradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Ullah Habib , Wilfred Cecilia Devi , Shaharun Maizatul Shima
Published: September 2017

A green biogenic, nontoxic, high‐yielding synthetic method is introduced for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using ionic‐liquid‐based, microwave‐assisted extraction (ILMAE) from Polygonum minus. The aqueous ionic liquid (1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride [BMIM]Cl)‐based plant extract was used as reducing agent to reduce silver ions to AgNPs. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by UV–visible spectrophotometry. Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that the plant bioactive compounds capped the AgNPs. The particle size and morphology of Ag NPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), respectively. Elemental analysis was carried out by energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy. Photodegradation studies showed that the AgNPs degraded 98% of methylene blue in 12 min.
Viral etiology of sporadic cases of parotitis among children in Korea during 2013‐2014
Authors: Kang Hae J. , Kim Sun H. , Chung Jae K. , Lee Soon W. , Choi Seung B. , Eom Hye E. , Park Ok , Kim Kisoon , Kim Sung S.
Published: September 2017

Recent years have seen a high incidence of mumps, which is generally diagnosed based on clinical features, especially parotitis, without laboratory confirmation in Korea. To better understand the epidemiology of mumps in Korean children, we investigated sporadic suspected mumps cases with parotitis. In total, 237 buccal swabs or throat swabs collected from children with parotitis who had been clinically diagnosed with mumps were tested using real‐time PCR for the detection of six viruses (Epstein‐Barr virus, Human herpesvirus 6, Mumps virus, Human parainfluenza virus‐1, ‐2, ‐3, Human adenovirus, Human bocavirus). Among 237 parotitis cases, 87 (36.7%) were positive for at least one virus; a single infection was observed in 73 (83.9%) cases, and co‐infections were detected in 14 (16.1%) cases. Epstein‐Barr virus was most frequent (20.7%), followed by human herpesvirus 6 (8.0%), mumps virus (5.5%), human parainfluenza virus‐3 (4.6%), human adenovirus (4.2%), and human bocavirus (0.4%). These data suggested that the sporadic suspected mumps in the children might be related to other respiratory viruses rather than to the mumps virus. Our findings also indicate the limitation of clinical diagnosis without laboratory confirmation for mumps and thus highlight the importance of laboratory testing in suspected mumps cases.
Antigenicity reduction contributes mostly to poor detectability of HBsAg by hepatitis B virus (HBV) S‐gene mutants isolated from individuals with occult HBV infection
Authors: Zhang Kai , Liu Yan , Chen Rongjuan , Li Qi , Xu Zhihui , Si Lanlan , Cheng Yongqian , Yang Yue , Chen Jianhong , Xu Dongping , Lin Shumei
Published: September 2017

Mutations in hepatitis B virus (HBV) S gene are one of factors contributing to occult HBV infection (OBI). The study aimed to uncover the impact of OBI‐related S‐gene mutations on the detectability of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Nine representative mutations within the major hydrophilic region of the S region were investigated. These included six (M1‐M6) from an OBI patient with HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma, and three (M7‐M9) from three OBI blood donors. Recombinant plasmids on the basis of pTriEx‐mod‐1.1 HBV and pcDNA3.1(−)/myc‐His A vectors were constructed for each and transfected into HepG2 or Huh7 cells, respectively. Electrochemical luminescence, ELISA, Western blotting, and confocal immunofluorescence were used to examine HBsAg expression and antigenicity. In comparison to wild‐type strain, supernatant and intracellular HBsAg levels of the nine mutants were reduced by 56.39‐99.09% and 42.76‐99.77% upon Roche quantitative Elecsys assay, respectively. Confocal immunofluorescence showed that relative intensity ratios of HBsAg‐myc‐His fusion protein detected by anti‐HBs and anti‐His‐tag were lower by 11.87‐76.27% for the nine mutants compared to the wild‐type strain. Specifically, M1‐M5 mutants that we firstly found recently were 33.14%, 76.27%, 57.93%, 53.37%, and 40.88% lower, respectively. Consistent results were obtained using double‐antibody sandwich ELISA assays (anti‐myc + anti‐HBs vs anti‐myc + anti‐His). Antigenicity reduction played a major role for the poor detectability of HBsAg caused by the OBI‐related mutations, although decreased HBsAg expression of some mutants and anti‐HBs in samples might play coordinated roles. Taken together, antigenicity reduction contributes mostly to poor detectability of HBsAg caused by these OBI‐related mutations.
Melanocortin receptor subtypes are expressed on cells in the oligodendroglial lineage and signal ACTH protection
Authors: Benjamins Joyce A. , Nedelkoska Liljana , Lisak Robert P.
Published: September 2017

ACTH, a melanocortin peptide used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) relapses, acts by stimulating adrenal corticosteroid (CS) production via melanocortin receptor 2 (MC2R), but it may also exert a therapeutic effect independent of CS by stimulating other melanocortin receptors (MCR) distributed in many tissues, including the brain. We reported that oligodendroglia (OL) and oligodendroglial precursor cells (OPC) express MC4R, and that ACTH 1‐39 protects OL and OPC in vitro from cell death induced by mechanisms likely involved in white matter damage in MS. This study investigates expression of MC1R, MC2R, MC3R and MC5R in OL and MC4R in OPC using immunocytochemistry with MCR subtype specific antibodies. OL express surface MC1R, MC3R and MC5R, in addition to MC4R. To investigate whether these receptors are functional, we asked if signaling through MCR is involved in ACTH protection of cultured rat OL from apoptosis (staurosporine), or cell death induced by excitotoxicity (glutamate), reactive oxygen species (ROS), or an inflammatory mediator (quinolinic acid). Like ACTH 1‐39, MCR subtype specific agonists for MC1R, MC3R, MC4R and MC5R all protected OL from these insults. Conversely, antagonists for MC3R and MC4R blocked ACTH protection of OL. We then investigated the role of MC4R, as a prototype MCR, in protection and proliferation of OPC; MC4R agonists protected OPC and increased their proliferation, while antagonists blocked these effects. Our results demonstrate that MCR on OL and OPC are functional and activate signaling pathways that protect against mechanisms involved in OL damage in MS, suggesting potential beneficial effects in neurologic diseases.
Antibiotic elution from acrylic bone cement loaded with high doses of tobramycin and vancomycin
Authors: Slane Joshua , Gietman Bradley , Squire Matthew
Published: September 2017

Two‐stage revision treatment of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) frequently employs the use of a temporary bone cement spacer loaded with multiple antibiotic types. Tobramycin and vancomycin are commonly used antibiotics in cement spacers, however, there is no consensus on the relative concentrations and combinations that should be used. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of dual antibiotic loading on the total antibiotic elution and compressive mechanical properties of acrylic bone cement. Varying concentrations of tobramycin (0–3 g) and vancomycin (0–3 g) were added either alone or in combination to acrylic cement (Palacos R), resulting in 12 experimental groups. Samples were submerged in 37°C saline for 28 d and sampled at specific time points. The collected eluent was analyzed to determine the cumulative antibiotic release. In addition, the cement's compressive mechanical properties and porosity were characterized. Interestingly, the cement with the highest concentration of antibiotics did not possess the best elution properties. Cement samples containing both 3 g of tobramycin and 2 g vancomycin demonstrated the highest cumulative antibiotic release after 28 d, which was coupled with a significant decrease in the mechanical properties and an increased porosity. The collected data also suggests that tobramycin elutes more effectively than vancomycin from cement. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that high antibiotic loading in cement does not necessarily lead to enhanced antibiotic elution. Clinically this information may be used to optimize cement spacer antibiotic loading so that both duration and amount of antibiotics eluted are optimized. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1078–1085, 2018.
An audit of medicines information quality in electronically generated discharge summaries – evidence to meet the Australian National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards
Authors: Gilbert Alice V. , Patel Bhavini K. , Roberts Michael S. , Williams Desmond B. , Crofton Jackie H. , Morris Nicola M. , Wallace Joanna , Gilbert Andrew L.
Published: September 2017

Background

Problems with achieving the continuum of medicines management are long‐standing. Audits are valuable in improving medication management and the quality and safety of healthcare systems.

Aim

To evaluate the accuracy and timeliness of electronic discharge summaries (EDS) provided to patients and their primary care providers at discharge. This was a forerunner to the study hospital's National Accreditation Examination and for routine safety and quality evaluation.

Methods

This study was a retrospective audit using an adaptation of the NSW indicator 5.3, ‘Percentage of discharge summaries that include medication therapy changes and explanations for changes’ (National quality use of medicines indicators for Australian Hospitals. ACSQHC, Sydney, NSW, 2014). The additions to the NSW tool included: assessing the completion and timeliness of delivery to primary health care providers, and the accuracy of the information.

Results

In patients leaving hospital, 75% had a hospital EDS completed, with 46% completed within the recommended 48 h from discharge. For an EDS to be delivered, a primary healthcare provider must be nominated by the patient. This occurred in 53% of our sample. Accuracy of information on what medicines patients should use post‐discharge was also assessed. It indicated 46% accuracy, with the majority of errors being omissions of required medicines. None of the EDSs included documented reasons for changes to medicines, in the provided table, to the primary healthcare provider. In patients on a short‐term therapy, such as antibiotics, 71% of EDSs had documented a plan for short‐term therapies to be completed in the community.

Conclusion

The lack of information on the primary care provider recorded in the patient's clinical system and discharge summaries, limited the timely transfer of essential information on post‐discharge medicine management to the patient's primary care provider. Work has commenced on an educational program to improve data entry of the patient's primary care provider when they are admitted, and plans to improve compliance with the EDS policy.
Human activity was a major driver of the mid‐Holocene vegetation change in southern Cumbria: implications for the elm decline in the British Isles
Authors: Grosvenor Mark J. , Jones Richard T. , Turney Chris S. M. , Charman Dan J. , Hogg Alan , Coward Dave , Wilson Ray
Published: September 2017

The dramatic decline in elm (Ulmus) across a large swathe of north‐west Europe in the mid‐Holocene has been ascribed to a number of possible factors, including climate change, human activity and/or pathogens. A major limitation for identifying the underlying cause(s) has been the limited number of high‐resolution records with robust geochronological frameworks. Here, we report a multiproxy study of an upland (Blea Tarn) and lowland (Urswick Tarn) landscape in southern Cumbria (British Isles) to reconstruct vegetation change across the elm decline in an area with a rich and well‐dated archaeological record to disentangle different possible controls. Here we find a two‐stage decline in Ulmus taking place between 6350–6150 and 6050–5850 cal a BP, with the second phase coinciding with an intensification of human activity. The scale of the decline and associated human impact is more abrupt in the upland landscape. We consider it likely that a combination of human impact and disease drove the Ulmus decline within southern Cumbria.