bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conserved conformational selection mechanism of Hsp70 chaperone-substrate interactions
Authors: Sekhar Ashok , Velyvis Algirdas , Zoltsman Guy , Rosenzweig Rina , Bouvignies Guillaume , Kay Lewis E
Published: February 2018

Molecular recognition is integral to biological function and frequently involves preferred binding of a molecule to one of several exchanging ligand conformations in solution. In such a process the bound structure can be selected from the ensemble of interconverting ligands a priori (conformational selection, CS) or may form once the ligand is bound (induced fit, IF). Here we focus on the ubiquitous and conserved Hsp70 chaperone which oversees the integrity of the cellular proteome through its ATP-dependent interaction with client proteins. We directly quantify the flux along CS and IF pathways using solution NMR spectroscopy that exploits a methyl TROSY effect and selective isotope-labeling methodologies. Our measurements establish that both bacterial and human Hsp70 chaperones interact with clients by selecting the unfolded state from a pre-existing array of interconverting structures, suggesting a conserved mode of client recognition among Hsp70s and highlighting the importance of molecular dynamics in this recognition event.
Is Multicultural Effectiveness Related to Phrasal Knowledge in English as a Second Language?
Authors: Forsberg Lundell Fanny , Eyckmans June , Rosiers Alexandra , Arvidsson Klara
Published: February 2018

The present study investigates the role of personality in language learning, with a special focus on the association between multicultural effectiveness and phrasal knowledge in L1 Dutch L2 English learners in Belgium (n=97). Results from the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) (five personality dimensions) were associated with results from a rational cloze test, measuring productive phrasal knowledge. In addition, scores from grammar proficiency tests were also included, since language proficiency is known to be a strong predictor for phrasal knowledge. A regression analysis revealed significant associations between phrasal knowledge and the personality dimensions Flexibility and Openmindedness, when grammar proficiency was controlled for. This study adds to the growing body of evidence of associations between phrasal knowledge and personality, encouraging researchers to pursue this avenue with learners from different L1/L2 pairings, in different contexts of L2 acquisition.
A study on the Relationship between EFL Learners' Nationality and Language Learning Motivation
Authors: Amirian Seyyed Mohammad Reza , Komesh Najme
Published: February 2018

The present study was an attempt to investigate the relationship between nationality of Persian, Arab and Turk EFL learners and their motivation toward English language learning. To perform this, 120 Persian, Turk and Arab EFL learners studying at English Preparatory school in Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus were selected to participate in this research. In order to measure the EFL learners’ motivation toward learning English, a motivational questionnaire including 29 items was administrated to all three groups of the present study. At last, in order to find any relationship between nationality of EFL learners and their language learning motivation and to examine any differences among Persian, Turk and Arab EFL learners in terms of language learning motivation, a chi-square and  an analysis of variance (ANOVA) were run. The results revealed that there was relationship between nationality of EFL learners and their language learning motivation. Moreover, there was significant difference between nationality of Persian, Turk and Arab EFL learners and their language learning motivation.
Investigating the correspondence between driver head position and glance location
Authors: Lee Joonbum , Muñoz Mauricio , Fridman Lex , Victor Trent , Reimer Bryan , Mehler Bruce
Published: February 2018

The relationship between a driver’s glance orientation and corresponding head rotation is highly complex due to its nonlinear dependence on the individual, task, and driving context. This paper presents expanded analytic detail and findings from an effort that explored the ability of head pose to serve as an estimator for driver gaze by connecting head rotation data with manually coded gaze region data using both a statistical analysis approach and a predictive (i.e., machine learning) approach. For the latter, classification accuracy increased as visual angles between two glance locations increased. In other words, the greater the shift in gaze, the higher the accuracy of classification. This is an intuitive but important concept that we make explicit through our analysis. The highest accuracy achieved was 83% using the method of Hidden Markov Models (HMM) for the binary gaze classification problem of (a) glances to the forward roadway versus (b) glances to the center stack. Results suggest that although there are individual differences in head-glance correspondence while driving, classifier models based on head-rotation data may be robust to these differences and therefore can serve as reasonable estimators for glance location. The results suggest that driver head pose can be used as a surrogate for eye gaze in several key conditions including the identification of high-eccentricity glances. Inexpensive driver head pose tracking may be a key element in detection systems developed to mitigate driver distraction and inattention.
Authorial and institutional stratification in open access publishing: the case of global health research
Authors: Siler Kyle , Haustein Stefanie , Smith Elise , Larivière Vincent , Alperin Juan Pablo
Published: February 2018

Using a database of recent articles published in the field of Global Health research, we examine institutional sources of stratification in publishing access outcomes. Traditionally, the focus on inequality in scientific publishing has focused on prestige hierarchies in established print journals. This project examines stratification in contemporary publishing with a particular focus on subscription vs. various Open Access (OA) publishing options. Findings show that authors working at lower-ranked universities are more likely to publish in closed/paywalled outlets, and less likely to choose outlets that involve some sort of Article Processing Charge (APCs; gold or hybrid OA). We also analyze institutional differences and stratification in the APC costs paid in various journals. Authors affiliated with higher-ranked institutions, as well as hospitals and non-profit organizations pay relatively higher APCs for gold and hybrid OA publications. Results suggest that authors affiliated with high-ranked universities and well-funded institutions tend to have more resources to choose pay options with publishing. Our research suggests new professional hierarchies developing in contemporary publishing, where various OA publishing options are becoming increasingly prominent. Just as there is stratification in institutional representationbetweendifferent types of publishing access, there is also inequalitywithinaccess types.
Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) display limited behavioural flexibility when faced with a changing foraging task requiring tool use
Authors: Harrison Rachel A. , Whiten Andrew
Published: February 2018

Behavioural flexibility, the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems, is a crucial ability in allowing organisms to adapt to novel environments and environmental change; it is essential to cumulative cultural change. To explore this ability in chimpanzees, 18 individuals (Pan troglodytes) were presented with an artificial foraging task consisting of a tube partially filled with juice that could be reached by hand or retrieved using tool materials to hand. Effective solutions were then restricted in the second phase of the study by narrowing the diameter of the tube, necessitating the abandonment of previously successful solutions. Chimpanzees showed limited behavioural flexibility in comparison to some previous studies, increasing their use of effective techniques, but also continuing to attempt solutions that had been rendered ineffective. This adds to a literature reporting divergent evidence for flexibility (the ability to alter behaviour in response to environmental feedback, and to relinquish previously successful solutions to problems) versus conservatism (a reluctance or inability to explore or adopt novel solutions to problems when a solution is already known) in apes.
Ants contribute to pollination but not to reproduction in a rare calcareous grassland forb
Authors: Rostás Michael , Bollmann Felix , Saville David , Riedel Michael
Published: February 2018

The number of plants pollinated by ants is surprisingly low given the abundance of ants and the fact that they are common visitors of angiosperms. Generally ants are considered as nectar robbers that do not provide pollination service. We studied the pollination system of the endangered dry grassland forbEuphorbia seguierianaand found two ant species to be the most frequent visitors of its flowers. Workers ofFormica cuniculariacarried five times more pollen than smallerTapinoma erraticumindividuals, but significantly more viable pollen was recovered from the latter. Overall, the viability of pollen on ant cuticles was significantly lower (p < 0.001)—presumably an antibiotic effect of the metapleural gland secretion. A marking experiment suggested that ants were unlikely to facilitate outcrossing as workers repeatedly returned to the same individual plant. In open pollinated plants and when access was given exclusively to flying insects, fruit set was nearly 100%. In plants visited by ants only, roughly one third of flowers set fruit, and almost none set fruit when all insects were excluded. The germination rate of seeds from flowers pollinated by flying insects was 31 ± 7% in contrast to 1 ± 1% resulting from ant pollination. We conclude that inbreeding depression may be responsible for the very low germination rate in ant pollinated flowers and that ants, although the most frequent visitors, play a negligible or even deleterious role in the reproduction ofE. seguieriana.Our study reiterates the need to investigate plant fitness effects beyond seed set in order to confirm ant-plant mutualisms.
A comparative bioinformatic analysis of C9orf72
Authors: Iyer Shalini , Acharya K. Ravi , Subramanian Vasanta
Published: February 2018

C9orf72 is associated with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), both of which are devastating neurodegenerative diseases. Findings suggest that an expanded hexanucleotide repeat in the non-coding region of the C9orf72 gene is the most common cause of familial FTD and ALS. Despite considerable efforts being made towards discerning the possible disease-causing mechanism/s of this repeat expansion mutation, the biological function of C9orf72 remains unclear. Here, we present the first comprehensive genomic study on C9orf72 gene. Analysis of the genomic level organization of C9orf72 across select species revealed architectural similarity of syntenic regions between human and mouse but a lack of conservation of the repeat-harboring intron 1 sequence. Information generated in this study provides a broad genomic perspective of C9orf72 which would form a basis for subsequent experimental approaches and facilitate future mechanistic and functional studies on this gene.
Acute sleep fragmentation does not alter pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in brain or peripheral tissues of leptin-deficient mice
Authors: Dumaine Jennifer E. , Ashley Noah T.
Published: February 2018

Obesity and sleep fragmentation (SF) are often co-occurring pro-inflammatory conditions in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Leptin is a peptide hormone produced by adipocytes that has anorexigenic effects upon appetite while regulating immunity. The role of leptin in mediating inflammatory responses to SF is incompletely understood. Male C57BL/6j (lean) and ob/ob mice (leptin-deficient mice exhibiting obese phenotype) were subjected to SF or control conditions for 24 h using an automated SF chamber. Trunk blood and tissue samples from the periphery (liver, spleen, fat, and heart) and brain (hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus) were collected. Quantitative PCR was used to determine relative cytokine gene expression of pro-inflammatory (IL-1β, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory (TGF-β1) cytokines. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine serum corticosterone concentration. Ob/ob mice exhibited elevated cytokine gene expression in liver (TNF-α, TGF-β1), heart (TGF-β1), fat (TNF-α), and brain (hippocampus, hypothalamus, prefrontal cortex: IL-1β, TNF-α) compared with wild-type mice. Conversely, leptin deficiency decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in heart (IL-1β, TNF-α). SF significantly increased IL-1β and TNF-α gene expression in fat and TGF-β1 expression in spleen relative to controls, but only in wild-type mice. SF increased basal serum corticosterone regardless of genotype. Taken together, these findings suggest that leptin deficiency affects cytokine gene expression differently in the brain compared to peripheral tissues with minimal interaction from acute SF.
Levels of Cytokines and MicroRNAs in Individuals With Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia and Ultrasonographic Findings of Gout: A Bench‐to‐Bedside Approach
Authors: Estevez‐Garcia Irving O. , Gallegos‐Nava Selma , Vera‐Pérez Erika , Silveira Luis H. , Ventura‐Ríos Lucio , Vancini Gonzalo , Hernández‐Díaz Cristina , Sánchez‐Muñoz Fausto , Ballinas‐Verdugo Martha A. , Gutierrez Marwin , Pineda Carlos , Rodriguez‐Henriquez Pedro , Castillo‐Martínez Diana , Amezcua‐Guerra Luis M.
Published: February 2018

Objective

To assess potential associations among serum cytokines and microRNA (miR) levels with ultrasound (US) findings suggestive of urate deposits in chronic asymptomatic hyperuricemia and gout.

Methods

All participants underwent musculoskeletal US and measurements of serum interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐13, interferon‐γ, tumor necrosis factor, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and epithelial neutrophil–activating peptide 78, as well as miR‐146a, miR‐155, and miR‐223 levels.

Results

Thirty individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia, 31 normouricemic controls, and 30 patients with gout were included. The frequency of synovitis and double contour sign using US was similar between asymptomatic hyperuricemia (67% and 27%, respectively) and patients with gout (77% and 27%, respectively), and each had a higher frequency than controls (45% and 0%, respectively). Serum IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels were similar between patients with asymptomatic hyperuricemia (mean ± SD 69.7 ± 73.4 and 18.5 ± 25.6 pg/ml, respectively) and gout (mean ± SD 75.8 ± 47.6 and 24.4 ± 31.7 pg/ml, respectively), and higher than controls (mean ± SD 28.2 ± 17.6 and 7.4 ± 6.0 pg/ml, respectively). A similar distribution was observed for miR‐155 levels in asymptomatic hyperuricemia, patients with gout, and controls (mean ± SD 0.22 ± 0.18, 0.20 ± 0.14, and 0.08 ± 0.04, respectively). Associations between morphostructural abnormalities suggestive of urate deposits (regardless of clinical diagnosis) and serum markers were assessed. Subjects with urate deposits had higher IL‐6 (257.2 versus 47.0 pg/ml; P = 0.005), IL‐8 (73.2 versus 12.0 pg/ml; P = 0.026), and miR‐155 (0.21 versus 0.16; P = 0.015) levels than those without deposition findings.

Conclusion

In individuals with chronic asymptomatic hyperuricemia, the presence of synovitis and double contour sign by US may represent a subclinical manifestation of monosodium urate crystal nucleation, capable of triggering inflammatory pathways (IL‐6 and IL‐8) and mechanisms of intercellular communication (miR‐155), similar to what is observed in patients with gout.
Enhancement of graft density and chain length of hydrophilic polymer brush for effective marine antifouling
Authors: Yang Wufang , Zhang Ran , Wu Yang , Pei Xiaowei , Liu Yupeng , Zhou Feng
Published: February 2018

2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate polymer brushes with various grafting densities and chain lengths were prepared through surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization. X‐ray photoelectron spectra, ellipsometry measurement, contact angle measurement, and atom force microscope were used to characterize the prepared polymer brush. The biofouling assays of polymer brush were investigated by adhesion of Dunaliella tertiolecta, Navcular sp., and Bovine Serum Albumin protein and by static marine immersion field test. Besides, hydroxyl and sulfonate‐terminated self‐assembled monolayers, anionic charged 3‐sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt polymer brush were prepared for comparison. Results suggest that the settlement of microorganisms can be largely reduced by polymer with enough polymer chain length and grafting density. More importantly, static immersion field tests indicate that hydrophilic polymer film with enough hydration layer thickness is necessary for long‐term marine antifouling application. This comprehensive investigation is of great importance to understanding their influence on the adhesion of marine microorganism. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46232.
Stabilization of CO2‐in‐water emulsions with high internal phase volume using PVAc‐b‐PVP and PVP‐b‐PVAc‐b‐PVP as emulsifying agents
Authors: Wen Li , Wang Liwen , Fang Shuyi , Bao Lei , Hu Dongdong , Zong Yuan , Zhao Ling , Liu Tao
Published: February 2018

Two newly‐designed hydrocarbon surfactants, that is, poly(vinyl acetate)‐block‐poly(1‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) (PVAc‐b‐PVP) and PVP‐b‐PVAc‐b‐PVP, were synthesized using reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization and used to form CO2/water (C/W) emulsions with high internal phase volume and good stability against flocculation and coalescence up to 60 h. Their structures were precisely determined by nuclear magnetic resonance, gel permeation chromatography, thermal gravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Besides low temperature and high CO2 pressure, the surfactant structures were the key factors affecting the formation and stability of high internal phase C/W emulsions, including the polymerization degrees of CO2‐philic block (PVAc) and hydrophilic block (PVP), as well as the number of hydrophilic tail. The surface tension of the surfactant aqueous solution and the apparent viscosity of the C/W emulsions were also measured to characterize the surfactants efficiency and effectiveness. The surfactants with double hydrophilic tails showed stronger emulsifying ability than those with single hydrophilic tail. The great enhancement of the emulsions stability was due to decrease of the interface tension as well as increase of the steric hindrance in the water lamellae, preventing a frequent collision of CO2 droplets and their fast coalescence. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46351.
An analysis of the energetic reward offered by field bean (Vicia faba) flowers: Nectar, pollen, and operative force
Authors: Bailes Emily J. , Pattrick Jonathan G. , Glover Beverley J.
Published: February 2018

Global consumption of crops with a yield that is dependent on animal pollinators is growing, with greater areas planted each year. However, the floral traits that influence pollinator visitation are not usually the focus of breeding programmes, and therefore, it is likely that yield improvements may be made by optimizing floral traits to enhance pollinator visitation rates. We investigated the variation present in the floral reward of the bee‐pollinated crop Vicia faba (field bean). We examined the genetic potential for breeding flowers with a greater reward into current commercial varieties and used bee behavioral experiments to gain insight into the optimal nectar concentration to maximize bee preference. There was a large range of variation in the amount of pollen and nectar reward of flowers in the genotypes investigated. Bee behavioral experiments using nectar sugar concentrations found in V. faba lines suggest that Bombus terrestris prefers 55% w/w sugar solution over 40% w/w, but has no preference between 55% w/w and 68% w/w sugar solution. We provide a first indication of the force required to open V. faba flowers. Our results provide a valuable starting point toward breeding for varieties with optimized floral reward. Field studies are now needed to verify whether the genetic potential for breeding more rewarding flowers can translate into higher yield and yield stability.
Effect of climatic variation on the morphological characteristics of 37‐year‐old balsam fir provenances planted in a common garden in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Akalusi Matthew E. , Bourque Charles P.‐A.
Published: February 2018

The extent of the effect of projected changes in climate on trees remains unclear. This study investigated the effect of climatic variation on morphological traits of balsam fir [Abies balsamea(L.) Mill.] provenances sourced from locations spanning latitudes from 44° to 51°N and longitudes from 53° to 102°W across North America, growing in a common garden in eastern Canada. Lower latitude provenances performed significantly better than higher latitude provenances (p< .05) with regard to diameter at breast height (DBH), height (H), and crown width (CW), a distinction indicative of genotypic control of these traits. There was, however, no significant difference among provenances in terms of survival (p > .05), an indication of a resource allocation strategy directed at survival relative to productivity in higher latitude provenances as seen in their lowerDBH, H, andCWcompared to the lower latitude provenances. Temperature had a stronger relationship withDBH, H, andCWthan precipitation, a reflection of adaptation to local conditions in populations of the species along latitudinal gradients. Both climatic variables had some effect on tree survival. These results suggest that the response of balsam fir to climatic variation will likely not be uniform in the species, but differ based on genetic characteristics between populations located in the northern and southern parts of the species’ range. Population differences in response to climatic variation may be evident earlier in growth traits, compared to survival in balsam fir. The findings of this study will facilitate modeling in the species that is reflective of genetic variation in response to climatic conditions, and guide provenance selection for utilization in terms of productivity or resilience as well as breeding programs directed at obtaining species that possibly combine both traits.
Preliminary investigation of the vitamin D pathway in periodontal connective tissue cells
Authors: Gao Zhanyi , Liu Kaining , Meng Huanxin
Published: February 2018

Background

The vitamin D pathway, from toll‐like receptor activation to human cationic antimicrobial protein (hCAP‐18/LL‐37) generation, has been identified in monocytes and keratinocytes. This study aimed to investigate the vitamin D pathway in human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs) and to provide preliminary evidence of its role in periodontal immune defense.

Methods

Primary cultures of hGFs and hPDLCs were stimulated with 1,25‐dihydroxy vitamin D3 and 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3, with or without Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide. CYP27B1 RNA interference and vitamin D receptor (VDR) antagonism were also used for reverse proof. The mRNA expression of hCAP‐18/LL‐37, VDR, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 were detected using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The LL‐37 concentrations were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

In hGFs and hPDLCs, 25‐hydroxy vitamin D3 and 1,25‐dihydroxy vitamin D3 induced hCAP‐18/LL‐37 expression, which was further increased by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide. If the function of CYP27B1 or VDR was blocked, the induction was significantly weakened. IL‐8 and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 mRNA expression could be suppressed by the vitamin D pathway.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the vitamin D pathway exists in hGFs and hPDLCs and plays an important role in immune defense in periodontal soft tissues.
Comparison of the Oral Absorption, Distribution, Excretion, and Bioavailability of Zinc Sulfate, Zinc Gluconate, and Zinc‐Enriched Yeast in Rats
Authors: Zhang Shuang‐Qing , Yu Xue‐Feng , Zhang Hai‐Bo , Peng Ning , Chen Zhi‐Xian , Cheng Qian , Zhang Xiao‐Li , Cheng Sui‐Han , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2018

Scope

The oral absorption, distribution, excretion, and bioavailability of zinc sulfate (ZnS), zinc gluconate (ZnG), and zinc‐enriched yeast (ZnY) in rats are fully and systemically compared for the first time.

Methods and results

After zinc compounds were orally administered to rats at a single dose of 4 mg Zn kg–1, blood, tissues, urine, and feces at different time points were collected for the quantification of zinc concentration. Blood was also harvested for the zinc assay in the multiple‐dose administration. Plasma zinc levels among three zinc compounds showed no difference, and zinc was widely distributed in various tissues with the level sequence of bone > liver > pancreas > testes. The net Zn balance was 2.993, 5.125, and 7.482% for ZnS, ZnG, and ZnY, respectively.

Conclusion

ZnS, ZnG, and ZnY show equivalent bioavailability based on plasma and tissues zinc levels, although ZnY was statistically more absorbed and retained than ZnS and ZnG based on the excretion amount.
The combined effects of wet–dry cycles and sustained load on the bond behavior of FRP–concrete interface
Authors: Liang Hongjun , Li Shan , Lu Yiyan , Yang Ting
Published: February 2018

Effective bonding between the adherents plays a key point when dealing with the retrofit of concrete structures by using fiber‐reinforced polymers (FRPs). However, lack of adequate studies on the long‐term performance of the bond behavior of FRP–concrete interface under harsh environments will inhibit their application in the repair of aged structures. Therefore in this study, 60 double‐lap shear‐bonded FRP‐concrete composite specimens were designed and tested under wet–dry cycles and sustained loading. The effect of FRP type (GFRP and CFRP), wet–dry cycling times (0–360 days) and sustained loading level (0–60% of the ultimate load of the control specimen) on the failure modes, stress transfer, and local bond‐slip curves of the composite specimens were investigated. The experimental results showed that wet–dry cycling exposure changed the failure mode of the composite specimens from the concrete substrate to the adhesive–concrete interface, further extended the local debonding area and decreased the ultimate strains of composite specimens from 12,000 to 8,000 μɛ. The degree of the degradation will be further increased under the combined effect of sustained loading and wet–dry exposure. The effects of FRP type, wet–dry cycling times and sustained loading level on the fracture energy of the specimens were quantitatively analyzed. A regression model was then proposed that was able to predict the fracture energy after environment exposure with reasonable accuracy, which can provide a reference for the design of bond durability factors in relevant specifications, such as ACI 440R‐08 POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1006–1017, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Investigation of optical, film formation, and magnetic properties of PS latex/SP‐MNPs composites
Authors: Uğur Ş. , Dylmishi E. , Elaissaari A. , Sözeri H.
Published: February 2018

In this work, the optical, film formation, morphological and the magnetic properties of a novel type of nanocomposite system, composed of polystyrene (PS) latex and core‐shell superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SP‐MNPs), is presented. The film formation and optical properties were examined by UV‐vis technique, morphological changes by scanning electron microscopy and magnetic properties studied using vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) as a function of SP‐MNPs content. A series of mixtures were prepared by mixing of PS latex dispersion with different amount of SP‐MNPs in the range of (0–100 wt%). PS/SP‐MNPs films were then prepared from these mixtures on glass substrates using drop casting method. After drying, film was separately annealed at elevated temperatures between 100°C and 250°C. In order to monitor film formation process, transmittance of these composites was measured after each annealing step as a function of SP‐MNPs content. It was found that below a critical SP‐MNPs content, PS percolates into the SP‐MNPs hard phase and forms an interconnected network upon annealing. However, above this critical value, PS latexes were no longer film forming at all temperatures. Besides, composite films showed superparamagnetic behaviors. The saturation magnetization (Ms) first increased and reached to 0.014 emu/cm3at 50 wt% SP‐MNPs, then decreased to 0.010 emu/cm3with increasing SP‐MNPs content. The maximum value ofMswas approximately 0.020 emu/cm3and was obtained for the 85 wt% SP‐MNPs content film. These results indicated that the optical, film formation and magnetic properties of PS/SP‐MNPs composite films can be readily tuned by varying SP‐MNPs content. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1018–1033, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Applicability of low‐flow atmospheric pressure chemical ionization and photoionization mass spectrometry with a microfabricated nebulizer for neutral lipids
Authors: Vrkoslav Vladimír , Rumlová Barbora , Strmeň Timotej , Nekvasilová Pavlína , Šulc Miloslav , Cvačka Josef
Published: February 2018

Rationale

Mass spectrometry with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) or photoionization (APPI) is widely used for neutral lipids involved in many fundamental processes in living organisms. Commercial APCI and APPI sources operate at high flow rates compatible with conventional high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). However, lipid analysis is often limited by a small amount of sample, which requires low flow rate separations like capillary or micro‐HPLC. Therefore, APCI and APPI suitable for microliter‐per‐minute flow rates need to be developed and applied for neutral lipids.

Methods

A micro‐APCI/APPI source with a heated chip nebulizer was assembled and mounted on a Thermo ion trap instrument. The ion source operated in APCI, APPI or dual mode was optimized for low microliter‐per‐minute sample flow rates. The source performance was investigated for squalene, wax esters, fatty acid methyl esters, triacylglycerols, and cholesterol.

Results

The ion source behaved as a mass‐flow‐sensitive detector. Direct infusion of methyl oleate showed superior analytical figures of merit when compared with high‐flow ion sources. A detection limit of 200 pmol/mL and a linear dynamic range spanning three orders of magnitude were measured for micro‐APCI. The mass spectra of most lipids differed from high flow rate spectra. Unlike micro‐APCI, micro‐APPI spectra were complicated by odd‐electron species. Dual APCI/APPI mode did not show any benefits for neutral lipids. Applications for lipid samples were demonstrated.

Conclusions

Micro‐APCI‐MS is a useful detection technique for neutral lipids at microliter‐per‐minute flow rates. It offers high sensitivity and high quality of spectra in direct infusion mode and promises successful utilization in capillary and micro‐HPLC applications.
Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency, a disorder of GABA metabolism: an update on pharmacological and enzyme‐replacement therapeutic strategies
Authors: Vogel Kara R. , Ainslie Garrett R. , Walters Dana C. , McConnell Alice , Dhamne Sameer C. , Rotenberg Alexander , Roullet Jean‐Baptiste , Gibson K. Michael
Published: February 2018

We present an update to the status of research on succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) deficiency (SSADHD), a rare disorder of GABA metabolism. This is an unusual disorder featuring the accumulation of both GABA and its neuromodulatory analog, gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), and recent studies have advanced the potential clinical application of NCS‐382, a putative GHB receptor antagonist. Animal studies have provided proof‐of‐concept that enzyme replacement therapy could represent a long‐term therapeutic option. The characterization of neuronal stem cells (NSCs) derived from aldehyde dehydrogenase 5a1−/− (aldh5a1−/−) mice, the murine model of SSADHD, has highlighted NSC utility as an in vitro system in which to study therapeutics and associated toxicological properties. Gene expression analyses have revealed that transcripts encoding GABAA receptors are down‐regulated and may remain largely immature in aldh5a1−/− brain, characterized by excitatory as opposed to inhibitory outputs, the latter being the expected action in the mature central nervous system. This indicates that agents altering chloride channel activity may be therapeutically relevant in SSADHD. The most recent therapeutic prospects include mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) inhibitors, drugs that have received attention with the elucidation of the effects of elevated GABA on autophagy. The outlook for novel therapeutic trials in SSADHD continues to improve.
Operationalizing the Reciprocal Engagement Model of Genetic Counseling Practice: a Framework for the Scalable Delivery of Genomic Counseling and Testing
Authors: Schmidlen Tara , Sturm Amy C. , Hovick Shelly , Scheinfeldt Laura , Scott Roberts J. , Morr Lindsey , McElroy Joseph , Toland Amanda E. , Christman Michael , O'Daniel Julianne M. , Gordon Erynn S. , Bernhardt Barbara A. , Ormond Kelly E. , Sweet Kevin
Published: February 2018

With the advent of widespread genomic testing for diagnostic indications and disease risk assessment, there is increased need to optimize genetic counseling services to support the scalable delivery of precision medicine. Here, we describe how we operationalized the reciprocal engagement model of genetic counseling practice to develop a framework of counseling components and strategies for the delivery of genomic results. This framework was constructed based upon qualitative research with patients receiving genomic counseling following online receipt of potentially actionable complex disease and pharmacogenomics reports. Consultation with a transdisciplinary group of investigators, including practicing genetic counselors, was sought to ensure broad scope and applicability of these strategies for use with any large‐scale genomic testing effort. We preserve the provision of pre‐test education and informed consent as established in Mendelian/single‐gene disease genetic counseling practice. Following receipt of genomic results, patients are afforded the opportunity to tailor the counseling agenda by selecting the specific test results they wish to discuss, specifying questions for discussion, and indicating their preference for counseling modality. The genetic counselor uses these patient preferences to set the genomic counseling session and to personalize result communication and risk reduction recommendations. Tailored visual aids and result summary reports divide areas of risk (genetic variant, family history, lifestyle) for each disease to facilitate discussion of multiple disease risks. Post‐counseling, session summary reports are actively routed to both the patient and their physician team to encourage review and follow‐up. Given the breadth of genomic information potentially resulting from genomic testing, this framework is put forth as a starting point to meet the need for scalable genetic counseling services in the delivery of precision medicine.
The Changing Age of Individuals Seeking Presymptomatic Genetic Testing for Huntington Disease
Authors: Holman Melissa A. , Quillin John , York Timothy P. , Testa Claudia M. , Rosen Ami R. , Norris Virginia W.
Published: February 2018

Huntington disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Presymptomatic genetic testing allows at‐risk individuals to clarify their risk status. Understanding the characteristics and motivations of individuals seeking HD presymptomatic genetic testing better equips genetic counselors and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and personalized care. The aims of this study were to (1) determine whether the average age when individuals seek presymptomatic HD genetic testing has decreased over time, (2) assess motivations for seeking testing, (3) explore whether there is a relationship between age and motivations, and (4) explore genetic counselors’ perceptions of the shift in age. Data from the US HD testing centers (N = 4) were analyzed. A small but statistically significant decrease in age of individuals seeking presymptomatic testing was observed (p = 0.045). HD community members (N = 77) were surveyed regarding presymptomatic testing motivations. Younger individuals were more likely than older individuals to cite “To learn whether or not you would develop HD” and “To make choices about further education or a career” compared to older individuals (p < 0.05). Conversely, older individuals more frequently cited “To give children a better idea of their risk” (p < 0.002). Sixteen percent of genetic counselors surveyed (6/37) perceived a change in age of testing. All of these respondents had provided HD testing for ten or more years and anecdotally believed the age at testing has decreased over time. Study results help providers personalize counseling based on patient's age and serve as a starting point for more research into the relationship between age at testing and motivations for testing.
A critique of the Shona–Chinese bilingual dictionary as a reference material in teaching and learning of Shona/Chinese language
Authors: Mushangwe Herbert , Musona Muchinei
Published: February 2018

The present paper analyses the Shona–Chinese bilingual dictionary in relation with the teaching of the Chinese language to native speakers of the Shona language or teaching of the Shona language-to-Chinese people in Zimbabwe. The main aim of this paper is to give a critical analysis that will help improve this dictionary or other future similar dictionaries. The data used in this article are based on the headwords in the dictionary as well as the experience of teaching Chinese over 1 year. The Shona–Chinese bilingual dictionary is a remarkable step towards developing local Chinese teaching materials in Zimbabwe. The data analysis showed that to increase the usefulness of this dictionary as a complementary teaching reference book, there are a number of areas that need to be perfected. Some of the critical aspects that require attention include: the meanings of headwords should be defined as they are used in the target language, and all important headwords in daily conversations should be included in the dictionary. It was recommended that a more thoroughly revised dictionary should be produced to provide high-quality teaching materials of this sort.
Damocles’ syndrome revisited
Authors: Cupit-Link Margaret , Syrjala Karen L. , Hashmi Shahrukh K.
Published: February 2018

Objective/Background:

Improvements in curative treatments for many types of cancer have emerged over the past several decades, resulting in a growing population of long-term cancer survivors – of both adult and childhood cancers. Despite this incredible medical achievement, long-term survivors of cancer face a unique fear: the fear of relapse.

Methods:

We conducted a review of the literature for data on fear of relapse among cancer survivors.

Results:

The fear of cancer recurrence is present in survivors of childhood and adult cancers as well as family members and often leads to psychological sequelae.

Conclusion:

Literature on the fear of cancer recurrence has begun to emerge. However, herein we provide a unique approach through the use of a metaphor: Cicero’s story of Damocles’ sword. We aim to outline the many fear-related and emotional challenges faced by cancer survivors with an extensive review of studies demonstrating such challenges.
Profilaxia infecciosa com aplicação local de vancomicina em pó em cirurgias ortopédicas: Revisão sistemática com metanálise
Authors: Sadigursky David , Sousa Mariana Drummond , Cajaíba Yasmin Galvão Linhares , Martins Rodrigo Rêgo , Lobão Diogo Maciel Vieira
Published: February 2018

Apesar das diversas estratégias perioperatórias empregadas para diminuir a incidência de infecção no sítio cirúrgico (ISS), tais complicações ainda são frequentes, e representam um desafio para os ortopedistas. Por esse motivo, há uma necessidade permanente de buscar métodos cada vez mais eficazes de profilaxia anti-infecciosa, para que sejam reduzidas significativamente as taxas de morbidade pós-operatória, mortalidade, e os custos com os cuidados de saúde. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia da profilaxia infecciosa com aplicação tópica de vancomicina em pó em cirurgias ortopédicas.

Fez-se um estudo de revisão sistemática com metanálise, usando-se o Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols 2015 (PRISMA-P 2015). Fez-se uma busca abrangente na literatura por estudos controlados sobre as taxas de ISS com e sem o uso de vancomicina em pó na ferida.

Entre os 412 títulos encontrados que preencheram os critérios, foram selecionados 7 estudos, 4 prospectivos e 3 retrospectivos, todos em cirurgia de coluna. A amostra total foi de 6.944 pacientes, que foram divididos em 2 grupos: controle (3.814 pacientes) e intervenção (3.130 pacientes). Observou-se que no grupo intervenção, no qual a vancomicina tópica foi aplicada, 64 (2,04%) pacientes desenvolveram ISS, e, no grupo controle 144 (3,75%) pacientes. Os resultados da metanálise demonstraram que o uso de vancomicina tem efeito protetor contra ISS em cirurgias de coluna, com risco relativo (RR) de 0,59, significância estatística, e intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%) entre 0,35–0,98.

O uso da vancomicina em pó profilática, no leito da ferida, tem fator protetor contra ISS em cirurgias de coluna; entretanto, mais ensaios prospectivos randomizados são necessários para recomendar seu uso em cirurgias ortopédicas.
Jurassic and Cretaceous biostratigraphy and organic matter geochemistry of the New Siberian Islands (Russian Arctic)
Authors: Nikitenko B.L. , Devyatov V.P. , Lebedeva N.K. , Basov V.A. , Fursenko E.A. , Goryacheva A.A. , Peshchevitskaya E.B. , Glinskikh L.A. , Khafaeva S.N.
Published: February 2018

The Jurassic–Cretaceous terrigenous complex of the Laptev and East Siberian Seas is of considerable interest as a potential exploration target. However, the key Jurassic and Cretaceous sections of the New Siberian Islands have been poorly studied. The results of this study were used to provide a detailed micropaleontological description of these sections and substantiation of the previous lithostratigraphic subdivision. We first identified a series of Boreal standard zones in the Jurassic and Cretaceous sections, based on the foraminifers, ostracods, dinocysts, and terrestrial palynomorphs. Our results, along with the published data on ammonites, bivalves, and terrestrial palynomorphs and the results of radiometric dating, provide more precise constraints on the stratigraphic position of the identified lithostratigraphic units. The results of this study can be corroborated by seismic data to explore offshore areas of the Laptev and East Siberian Seas. We also present detailed data on the geochemistry of organic matter from the Pestsovaya Formation (Hettangian–lowermost Upper Pliensbachian).
Assessment of the tsunami hazard on the Russian coast based on a new catalogue of tsunamis in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov
Authors: Nikonov A.A. , Gusiakov V.K. , Fleifel’ L.D.
Published: February 2018

We present the results of work on the compilation of a fuller and more comprehensive historical catalogue of earthquakes and tsunamis in the basin of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, an area of primary importance for the Russian Federation. In the 20th century, there were no significant tsunamis in the Black Sea; therefore, its coast was not considered tsunami-prone. A systematic search for new data sources, a revision of earlier ones, and the use of new approaches to the identification of tsunamigenic events resulted in a more than doubling of the number of known tsunamigenic events in this basin, bringing it up to 50. The total length of the new tsunami catalogue reached 3000 years, which makes it the second longest after the Mediterranean tsunami catalogue (about 4000 years). Taking into account the seismotectonic features of the Black Sea region, we processed data on historical tsunamis and analyzed the geographical and temporal distributions of their sources. For all tsunamigenic events we performed a parameterization of available information about their sources and coastal manifestations, evaluated the tsunami intensity based on the Soloviev–Imamura scale, and proposed a classification of tsunami and tsunami-like water wave disturbances based on their genesis. Tsunami run-up heights, inland penetration, and damage were estimated with regard for the newly found data. Among the identified historical events, there are devastating tsunamis with run-ups of 4–5 m, sometimes up to 6–8 m, which resulted in disastrous consequences for several ancient cities (Dioscuria, Sebastopolis, Bizone, and Panticapaeum) and many coastal settlements. Expert assessments of the most tsunami-prone areas of the coasts are given.
Potentialities of ultrawideband GPR in low-resistivity geoenvironments
Authors: Cheremisin A.A. , Vasil’ev Yu.V. , Olenchenko V.V. , Epov M.I. , Toib R.E. , Shnipov I.S. , Shirokov S.V. , Boltintsev V.B.
Published: February 2018

We assess the potentialities of ultrawideband (UWB) electromagnetic pulse sounding of low-resistivity geoenvironments using the ground-penetrating radar (GPR) system developed by us and compare the obtained results with 2D electrical resistivity tomography and standard GPR data. The research was performed in an area of Quaternary clay deposits with a resistivity of 20–50 Ohm⋅m. For an OKO-2 GPR antenna with a center frequency of 150 MHz, the sounding depth is 2–4 m, whereas UWB sounding provides penetration of the GPR pulse to a depth of 30–40 m. Deep UWB sounding of low-resistivity environments is possible under the following conditions: use of generators based on drift step recovery diodes (DSRDs), high matching of the UWB receiving and transmitting antennas to the environment, and an increase in the noise immunity of the recording system, in particular, due to a decrease in the intensity of air waves.
Resistance, response and recovery
Authors: Hawkins Nick
Published: February 2018

In May 2017 the NHS was just one high-profile victim of the global ‘Wannacry’ ransomware attack. Patient data was exposed and compromised in the attack. In June of the same year, NotPetya, another crippling ransomware attack, targeted many of the EU's largest companies. In the face of threats like this, how can you mitigate risk, limit the impact of an attack and expedite recovery? It comes down to the three R's of cyber-security – resistance, response, recovery.

Managing cyber-attacks is no longer just about how well you are equipped to resist the attack in the first place but how you respond and how quickly you recover to a normal state of business operation.

Nick Hawkins of Everbridge examines the three R's of cyber-security – resistance, response and recovery. He argues that the time has come for organisations to put as much focus on their response and recovery as they do on investing in protection. Being prepared and having staff trained to limit the fallout and speed up the recovery are key to limiting the damage and cost of a cyber-attack.