bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Prediction of OATP‐Mediated Drug‐Drug Interactions With Model‐Based Analysis of Endogenous Biomarker Kinetics
Authors: Yoshida Kenta , Guo Cen , Sane Rucha
Published: June 2018

Quantitative prediction of the magnitude of transporter‐mediated clinical drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) solely from in vitro inhibition data remains challenging. The objective of the present work was to analyze the kinetic profile of an endogenous biomarker for organic anion‐transporting polypeptides 1B (OATP1B), coproporphyrin I (CPI), and to predict clinical DDIs with a probe OATP1B substrate (pravastatin) based on “in vivo” inhibition constants (Ki). The CPI kinetics in the presence and absence of strong and weak OATP1B inhibitors (rifampin and GDC‐0810) were described well with a one‐compartment model, and in vivo Ki were estimated. Clinical DDIs between pravastatin and these inhibitors were predicted using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models coupled with the estimated in vivo Ki and predicted magnitude matched well with the observed DDIs. In conclusion, model‐based analysis of the CPI profile has the potential to quantitatively predict liability of a new molecular entity (NME) as an OATP1B inhibitor early in drug development.
Investigation of the Out of Plane Component of the Magnetization of [Fe72Ga28(x nm)/Tb33Fe67(50 nm)]2 Multilayers
Authors: Bartolomé Pablo , Maicas Marco , Biskup Neven , Varela Maria , Ranchal Rocio
Published: June 2018

In this work the authors present their investigation on sputtered [Fe72Ga28/Tb33Fe37]2 multilayers in which the Tb‐Fe thickness is kept fixed (50 nm), whereas the Fe‐Ga ranged from 25 to 100 nm. In particular, the authors have study the out of plane component of the magnetization by means of vibrating sample magnetometry and magnetic force microscopy. Samples are structurally characterized by X‐ray diffractometry and electron microscopy in order to correlate the magnetic characterization with the structural properties. In addition, the authors anneal the samples at 400 °C in order to analyze the effect of the thermal treatment on both, structural and magnetic properties. In the as‐grown samples, the out of plane component of the magnetization can be related to both, Tb‐Fe and Fe‐Ga. However, experimental results indicate that annealing reduces this component of the magnetization due to the crystallization of ordered phases in the Fe‐Ga layers.
Correlation of Electrical Response and Structural Phase Transitions in Bi2O3 Nanowires
Authors: Vila María , Rivera‐Calzada Alberto , Salas‐Colera Eduardo , Castro Germán R. , Díaz‐Guerra Carlos
Published: June 2018

The electric response of Bi2O3 nanowires is studied by means of impedance spectroscopy at high temperatures and compared to a reference bulk Bi2O3 ceramic. Nanowires present the α to δ phase transition at a similar temperature than the ceramic (1007 vs. 1010 K), showing an increase of over two orders of magnitude in the conductance. On cooling, nanowires change directly to the α phase instead of presenting metastable phases, like the bulk sample. Both samples present a dominant ionic contribution in the δ phase which is also present in the α phase at the highest temperatures. X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) measurements reveal no differences in the short range structural order of both kinds of samples at room temperature, while a detailed analysis by high temperature X‐ray diffraction (HTXRD) confirms the transitions observed in the conductance measurements. The authors relate the direct phase transition δ → α in nanowires to a lower thermal conductivity in these nanostructures.
Influence of Nitrogen Concentration on Self‐Compliance Resistive Switching in Ta/SiNx/Pt RRAM Devices
Authors: Gao Hai Xia , Jiang Peng Fei , Zhang Zhen Fei , Yang Mei , Ma Xiao Hua , Yang Yin Tang
Published: June 2018

In this paper, the resistive switching phenomena in CMOS‐compatible Ta/SiNx/Pt devices with different nitrogen concentrations are investigated. The SiNx resistance random‐access memory (RRAM) devices show self‐compliance RS characteristics with low operation voltage. This paper suggests that a dendric Si dangling‐bond conductive channel and a nitrogen‐rich SiNx layer formed at the Ta/SiNx interface are responsible for the self‐compliance behavior. Lower operation current and energy consumption are achieved by increasing the nitrogen concentration of the SiNx films, which can be ascribed to increase of the band gap induced by the composition variation.
Modification of Cotton Fibers with Magnetite and Magnetic Core‐Shell Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Patiño‐Ruiz David , Sanchez‐Botero Lina , Hinestroza Juan , Herrera Adriana
Published: June 2018

Magnetite (Fe3O4) and magnetic core‐shell mesoporous silica (Fe3O4‐mSiO2) nanoparticles are employed to coat cotton fibers using a room temperature water‐based direct electrostatic assembly method with polyelectrolytes. Core‐shell nanoparticles are fabricated by coating super‐paramagnetic magnetite clusters with a mesoporous silica layer (mSiO2) using a surfactant‐templating approach. The Fe3O4 clusters are initially synthesized by a co‐precipitation process. The cotton fibers are modified through a layer‐by‐layer technique using dipping cycles with PDDA and PSS polyelectrolytes solutions to enable further nanoparticles attachment. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images provides morphologic information of the synthesized nanoparticles and the modified cotton fibers. Composition and physicochemical properties are studied by powder XRD, FTIR, and SEM‐EDX methods, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) are carried out to determine the amount of nanoparticles adsorbed onto cotton samples. The saturation magnetization (MS) of nanoparticles determined by a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) is greater than that of the cotton‐nanoparticles nano‐composites. Potential applications of these composite materials can include protective clothing and transdermal drug delivery systems.
Detection of prostate cancer with multiparametric MRI utilizing the anatomic structure of the prostate
Authors: Jin Jin , Zhang Lin , Leng Ethan , Metzger Gregory J. , Koopmeiners Joseph S.
Published: June 2018

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI), which combines traditional anatomic and newer quantitative MRI methods, has been shown to result in improved voxel‐wise classification of prostate cancer as compared with any single MRI parameter. While these results are promising, substantial heterogeneity in the mpMRI parameter values and voxel‐wise prostate cancer risk has been observed both between and within regions of the prostate. This suggests that classification of prostate cancer can potentially be improved by incorporating structural information into the classifier. In this paper, we propose a novel voxel‐wise classifier of prostate cancer that accounts for the anatomic structure of the prostate by Bayesian hierarchical modeling, which can be combined with post hoc spatial Gaussian kernel smoothing to account for residual spatial correlation. Our proposed classifier results in significantly improved area under the ROC curve (0.822 vs 0.729, P < .001) and sensitivity corresponding to 90% specificity (0.599 vs 0.429, P < .001), compared with a baseline model that does not account for the anatomic structure of the prostate. Furthermore, the classifier can also be applied on voxels with missing mpMRI parameters, resulting in similar performance, which is an important practical consideration that cannot be easily accommodated using regression‐based classifiers. In addition, our classifier achieved high computational efficiency with a closed‐form solution for the posterior predictive cancer probability.
Multisample adjusted U‐statistics that account for confounding covariates
Authors: Satten Glen A. , Kong Maiying , Datta Somnath
Published: June 2018

Multisample U‐statistics encompass a wide class of test statistics that allow the comparison of 2 or more distributions. U‐statistics are especially powerful because they can be applied to both numeric and nonnumeric data, eg, ordinal and categorical data where a pairwise similarity or distance‐like measure between categories is available. However, when comparing the distribution of a variable across 2 or more groups, observed differences may be due to confounding covariates. For example, in a case‐control study, the distribution of exposure in cases may differ from that in controls entirely because of variables that are related to both exposure and case status and are distributed differently among case and control participants. We propose to use individually reweighted data (ie, using the stratification score for retrospective data or the propensity score for prospective data) to construct adjusted U‐statistics that can test the equality of distributions across 2 (or more) groups in the presence of confounding covariates. Asymptotic normality of our adjusted U‐statistics is established and a closed form expression of their asymptotic variance is presented. The utility of our approach is demonstrated through simulation studies, as well as in an analysis of data from a case‐control study conducted among African‐Americans, comparing whether the similarity in haplotypes (ie, sets of adjacent genetic loci inherited from the same parent) occurring in a case and a control participant differs from the similarity in haplotypes occurring in 2 control participants.
Nb‐Dopant‐Induced Tuning of Optical and Electrical Property of Anatase TiO2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Saha Manas , Ghosh Sirshendu , Paul Sumana , Dalal Biswajit , De Subodh K.
Published: June 2018

For increasing demand of electrochromic smart window, flat panel display synthesis of high quality aliovalent doped wide bandgap semiconductor nanocrystals are gaining interest. In our manuscript we synthesized pure and Nb5+ doped anatase TiO2 nanocrystals by colloidal process. On increasing doping percentage size of TiO2 nanoparticle was found to be decreased. Although pure TiO2 nanocrystals are terminated with thermodynamically stable {101} facets but Nb5+ doped TiO2 was found to be terminated with high energy {103} facet by lowering the surface energy. Successful doping in anatase TiO2 has been characterized by Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) analysis. Aliovalent dopant Nb5+ generated free carriers in conduction band of TiO2. These free electrons results distinct plasmon absorption peak which appeared at wavelength of 1900 nm to 2700 nm. Plasmon peak found to be blue shifted with increase of dopant amount. Broad emission bands correspond to distinct transitions related to intermediate energy levels induced by oxygen vacancy. High colloidaly stable nanocrystals was deposited as crack free transparent conducting oxide thin film where we obtained very low sheet resistance with high optical transparency that leads to good figure of merit of thin film. Temperature driven metal‐insulator transition for the lowest resistance film is explained by electron localization origination from random substitution of Nb into TiO2 nanocrystals.
Sugar‐Based Self‐Assembly of Hydrogel Nanotubes Manifesting ESIPT: Theoretical Insight and Application in Live Cell Imaging
Authors: Maity Santu , Ray Suvonil Sinha , Chatterjee Aroni , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Ganguly Jhuma
Published: June 2018

A biopolymeric hydrogel nanotubes (BTHBC) using 3‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and chitosan have been synthesized which exhibits excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) in both gel and solution phase. The optimized spatial structure of the monomer of BTHBC having lower energy (Energy: −1085688.464 kcal/mol) is found to be planar. FE‐SEM analysis reveals that the spherical assemblies (20–100 nm) preceded gelation. Upon aging, gelation can be observed owing to the fusion of these spherical aggregates into nanotubes (200‐500 nm). DFT study of BTHBC establishes that the migration of H atom from phenolic –OH group to the nitrogen of 2‐(2′ Hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (HBT) moiety is more feasible than the imine nitrogen of chitosan. The fluorescence lifetime of BTHBC is found to increase remarkably in gel phase compared to its aqueous solution. Both the cellular uptake and cell imaging efficiency suggest that the biocompatible nature of the hydrogel permits easy access of maximum number of molecules into the cells which causes enhancement of the fluorescence intensity of the cells.
A Novel and Efficient Methodology for the Synthesis of Vinylamide Derivatives Using [Ce(L‐Pro)2]2Ox as Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Tavares Junior José M. C. , Silva Caren D. G. , dos Santos Beatriz F. , da Silva Beatriz A. L. , de Oliveira Aline R. , Kupfer Vicente L. , Rinaldi Andrelson W. , Domingues Nelson Luís C.
Published: June 2018

In this work, we presented a simple, efficient, scalable, and green methodology for the synthesis of arylvinylbenzamides using various anilines and azlactones with [Ce(L‐Pro)2]2Ox as heterogeneous catalyst under green conditions in a short reaction time obtained good to excellent yields.
Photocatalytic Performance of Indigo‐Dye‐Doped Graphene‐Supported BiVO4 Nanocomposite under Visible Light
Authors: Shameem Ahsan , Kashmeri Ahmed Ali , Nawaz Faisal , Mahr Muhammad Shabir , Pervaiz Amjad , Iqbal Javed
Published: June 2018

In this work, novel graphene supported BiVO4 based nanocomposites were derived successfully by employing hydrothermal method. Pure bismuth vanadate limits a number of applications because of its insufficient photo catalytic activity in ordinary sun light. So, Indigo‐Reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/BiVO4 nanocomposites were designed as a next step to achieve efficient photo‐catalytic activity in visible light in relation to pure BiVO4 or its other nanocomposites. Characterization of nanocomposites was carried out by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV–Vis spectroscopy (UV). The enhancement of the photo‐catalytic activities of the prepared nanocomposite were contributed to the effective charge transfer of photo‐generated electron from BiVO4 to RGO and pi to pi* stacking improved absorption performance.
Degradable Natural Lacquer (Urushi) Adhesives Using a Reversible Polymer Based on Hemiaminal Dynamic Covalent Networks
Authors: Jung Jiyoon , Cho Hye Jin , Kim Dongyoung , Hwang Seung Sang , Won Jongok
Published: June 2018

We have developed a thermally cured, natural lacquer (urushi)‐based adhesive, which has a reversible polymer (RP) additive that promotes degradability. The RP was prepared by thermally treating a hemiaminal dynamic covalent network (HDCN) organo‐gel. The urushi was crosslinked polymer from the curing reaction of urushiol. The main component of the natural lacquer is urushiol, which is the mixture of catechol derivatives containing alkyl side chains. The catechol group has a high adhesiveness, and the long alkyl chains provide high mechanical strength and flexibility. The thermal curing reaction occurred mainly between unsaturated C=C groups in the side alkyl chains of urushiol, and the rate of the curing reaction increased at higher temperature. HDCN was prepared via a reaction between formaldehyde and poly(propylene glycol) bis(2‐aminopropyl ether) in 1‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone. Hexahydrotriazine‐like RP, which is reversible in strong acid solution, was formed after heat treatment. Urushi/RP adhesives were degradable, and the degradation was investigated by tensile strength measurements. The tensile strength increased with increased RP in the urushi/RP adhesives because RP has a higher tensile strength than urushi. The tensile strength of the urushi/RP adhesives decreased by more than one order of magnitude after the material was immersed in 0.5 M of H2SO4 for 6 h, and the degradability increased with increased RP content.
Influence of Functionalized η6‐Arene Rings on Ruthenium(II) Curcuminoids Complexes
Authors: Pettinari Riccardo , Petrini Agnese , Marchetti Fabio , Di Nicola Corrado , Scopelliti Rosario , Riedel Tina , Pittet Laure D. , Galindo Agustín , Dyson. Paul J.
Published: June 2018

A series of organometallic Ru(II) complexes containing functionalized η6‐arene ligands, together with curcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin as O,O’‐chelating ligands and their RAPTA (ruthenium arene complexes bearing the 1,3,5‐triaza‐7‐phosphaadamantane ligand) type ionic derivatives is reported. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared, 1H and 13C NMR, ESI‐MS spectrometry, and by single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis. The cytotoxic activity of the complexes has been evaluated against human ovarian A2780 and A2780cisR cancer cell lines as well as non‐tumorigenic human embryonic kidney HEK 293 cells.
Pyrene‐based Schiff Base as Selective Chemosensor for Copper(II) and Sulfide Ions
Authors: Dalbera Subrata , Kulovi Somnath , Dalai Sudipta
Published: June 2018

1‐aminopyrene and 2,4‐dihydroxy benzaldehyde derived pyrene based chemosensor was obtained by single step synthesis. The sensor is highly selective and sensitive towards Cu2+ and S2‐ ions. Sensitivity of the sensor towards Cu2+ was assessed by UV/Visible absorption and emission spectroscopy while the same for the S2‐ was colorimetrically assessed. Static quenching mechanism for Cu2+ was established by time‐resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. Stoichiometry of the sensor with Cu2+ and S2‐ ions were found to be 2:2 and 1:1 with the corresponding binding constants as 5.65 ×105 M‐1 and 3.08 ×104 M‐1. The lower limit of detection of Cu2+ and S2‐ by 1 is 0.503 and 10 μM respectively projecting the sensor as a potential agent for applications in real samples.
Colloidal Mn2+ Doped 2D (n =1) Lead Bromide Perovskites: Efficient Energy Transfer and Role of Anion in Doping Mechanism
Authors: Usman Muhammed Haris Palattuparambil , Bakthavatsalam Rangarajan , Kundu Janardan
Published: June 2018

Mn2+ doping directly into APbCl3 type 3D nanocrystals, manifesting host to dopant energy transfer, have been heavily reported for illumination and display applications. However, these doped 3D ABX3 systems have low/modest exciton binding energy. Strongly bound excitons in the doped system can enhance the dopant‐host carrier exchange interactions leading to efficient energy transfer. Reported here is a simple and facile synthesis of colloidal Mn2+ doped (Butylammonium/octylammonium)2PbBr4 2D (n=1) perovskites that demonstrate enhanced energy transfer from strongly bound excitons of the host material to the Mn2+ dopant ions resulting in intense orange‐yellow emission due to spin forbidden internal transition (4T1 → 6A1) with the highest quantum yield (Mn2+) of 36%. Consistent with experimental evidences presented here, mechanism of this thermally aided doping process in these 2D systems, very likely, involves halide vacancy and its diffusion that precedes the cation exchange (doping) process. Owing to the high quantum yield, stability in ambient atmosphere, simplicity and scalability of the synthetic procedure, Mn2+ doped 2D perovskites could be beneficial as color converting phosphor material and can be utilized to further explore their magneto‐optoelectronic properties.
Effects of Structural Modification on the Photoelectrical Properties of the D‐A‐π‐A‐Type Dyes in DSSCs: A Computational Investigation
Authors: Sun Chaofan , Li Yuanchao , Shi Ying , Li Yuanzuo
Published: June 2018

The structure‐activity relationships of the three D−A‐π‐A type dyes (LC6, LC7 and LC8) were investigated via density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT methods. The results indicate the substitution of thiophene with benzene ring as π spacer has intensified the distortion in the structure of LC8, which will ease the aggregation of dye on the photocathode. The greatest shift of the conduction band of TiO2, driving force of electron injection, excited state lifetime and lowest lateral intermolecular charge transfer rate of LC8 leads to the prominent photoelectrical properties among the three dyes. In addition, three novel dyes (LC81, LC82 and LC83) were designed via introducing a ‐CN group into the structure of LC8. The obtained results imply that the designed dye LC81 would exhibit the outstanding photoelectrical characteristics among LC8 and its derivatives, owing to its lowest energy gap, chemical hardness, and the greatest polarizability, total first hyperpolarizability, electrophilicity and electroaccepting power, which can provide a theory evidence for the experimental synthesis of dyes with better efficiency.
Synthesis of a Magnetic Nanoparticles/Dialdehyde Starch‐Based Composite Film for Food Packaging
Authors: Keshk Sherif M. A. S. , El‐Zahhar Adel A. , Haija Mohammad Abu , Bondock Samir
Published: June 2018

The primary purpose of this study is to fabricate a MNPs (magnetic nanoparticles) and DAS (dialdehyde starch)‐based novel composite film for use in food packaging. In order to characterize the synthesized composite film, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TGA, WVT, and WVP tests are carried out. Dialdehyde starch is polymerized by the intramolecular Cannizzaro reaction with MNPs in the presence of a concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide. The presence of Fe3O4 nanoparticles is confirmed by a broad stretching absorption band at 680 cm−1 in the FTIR spectra. In addition, the XRD diffractogram of MNPs/DAS composite exhibits the characteristic peaks of magnetite (Fe3O4) crystals. Thermogravimetric analysis confirms that the MNPs/DAS film is thermally stable up to 300 °C, and the maximum decomposition occurrs at 500 °C. Furthermore, SEM micrographs confirm the homogenous distribution of MNPs in the starch hydroxy acid film. The MNPs/DAS composite film has a lower moisture content than the DAS film indicating the increased hydrophilic nature of the former. The authors propose the synthesized MNPs/DAS composite film as a potential candidate for use in food packaging.
The protective mechanism of Nigella sativa against diethylnitrosamine‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma through its antioxidant effect and EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling
Authors: Shahin Y. R. , Elguindy N. M. , Abdel Bary A. , Balbaa M.
Published: June 2018

A wide variety of natural products have powerful chemopreventive effects due to their antioxidant, antimutagenic, and anti‐inflammatory activities that enable them to arrest cell proliferation in several cancer models. In the present study, we shed light on the protective mechanism of Nigella sativa extract against diethylnitrosamine (DENA)‐induced preneoplastic stage of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in rats. We studied the extract effect on EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway as one of the major signaling pathways controlling cell proliferation during hepatocarcinogenesis as well as the investigation of its antioxidant activity. The study also compared the effects of NSEE to those of (thymoquinone) TQ and silymarin as hepatoprotective substances. Rats received daily doses of NSEE (150, 250, 350 mg/kg BW), a dose per three alternative days/week of TQ (20 mg/kg BW) and a daily dose of silymarin (100 mg/kg BW). The doses were administered orally by gavage for 12 days before DENA and CCl4 administration, and then the supply of NSEE, TQ or silymarin was continued until the end of the experiment (16 weeks). DENA administration activated EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling and caused a significant increase in P‐EGFR and P‐ERK1/2 as well as a significant up‐regulation of expression of target genes such as PCNA, c‐fos and Bcl2, which indicated the increase in cell proliferation. Furthermore, a significant elevation in alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) and hepatic enzymes was observed in DENA‐treated rats in addition to a decrease in the antioxidant status. The protection with NSEE, TQ, or silymarin has the potential to inhibit the EGFR/ERK1/2 activation and improve the antioxidant status. Moreover, the action of NSEE against the hepatocarcinogenesis was supported by high antioxidant activity and the histopathological observations of the liver. These data suggest that NSEE has a chemopreventive role in DENA‐induced HCC through the inhibition of the EGFR/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and their target genes in addition to its role as an antioxidant.
Understand how to determine legitimate educational interest, Part 1
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: June 2018

The “school officials/legitimate educational interest” exception to disclosing education records without a student's written consent is one of the most frequently used of the §99.31 exceptions. To satisfy the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act requirements to disclose education records under this exception, you must have (1) a “school official” who must have (2) a “legitimate educational interest” to have access to those records.
Manifesting heterozygotes in McArdle disease: a myth or a reality—role of statins
Authors: Núñez‐Manchón Judit , Ballester‐Lopez Alfonsina , Koehorst Emma , Linares‐Pardo Ian , Coenen Daniëlle , Ara Ignacio , Rodriguez‐Lopez Carlos , Ramos‐Fransi Alba , Martínez‐Piñeiro Alicia , Lucente Giuseppe , Almendrote Miriam , Coll‐Cantí Jaume , Pintos‐Morell Guillem , Santos‐Lozano Alejandro , Arenas Joaquin , Martín Miguel Angel , de Castro Mauricio , Lucia Alejandro , Santalla Alfredo , Nogales‐Gadea Gisela
Published: June 2018

McArdle disease is an autosomal recessive condition caused by deficiency of the PYGM gene‐encoded muscle isoform of glycogen phosphorylase. Some cases of “manifesting” heterozygotes or carriers (i.e., patients who show some McArdle‐like symptoms or signs despite being carriers of only one mutated PYGM allele) have been reported in the literature but there is controversy, with misdiagnosis being a possibility. The purpose of our study was to determine if there are actually “manifesting” heterozygotes of McArdle disease and, if existing, whether statin treatment can trigger such condition. Eighty‐one relatives of McArdle patients (among a total of 16 different families) were studied. We determined whether they were carriers of PYGM mutations and also collected information on exercise tests (second wind and modified Wingate anaerobic test) and statin intake. We found 50 carriers and 31 non‐carriers of PYGM mutations. Although we found existence of heterozygotes manifesting some exercise‐related muscle problems such as exacerbated myalgia or weakness, they only accounted for 14% of the carriers and muscle symptoms were milder than those commonly reported in patients. Further, no carrier (whether reporting symptoms or not) showed the second wind phenomenon or a flat blood lactate response to maximal‐intensity exercise, both of which are hallmarks of McArdle disease. On the other hand, statin myotoxicity was not associated with muscle symptom onset.
Systems Design Approach to Low-Cost Coinage Materials
Authors: Lass Eric A. , Stoudt Mark R. , Campbell Carelyn E.
Published: June 2018

A systems approach within an integrated computational materials engineering framework was used to design three new low-cost seamless replacement coinage alloys to reduce the raw material cost of the current US coinage alloys. Maintaining compatibility with current coinage materials required matching the currently used alloy properties of yield strength, work-hardening behavior, electrical conductivity, color, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. In addition, the designed alloys were required to use current production processes. CALPHAD-based models for electrical conductivity and color were developed to integrate into the system design. Three prototype alloys were designed, produced, and characterized. The design process highlighted the trade-off between minimizing the raw material costs and achieving the desired color properties. Characterization of the three prototype alloys showed good agreement with the design goals.
Correction to: On the Convergence of Asynchronous Parallel Iteration with Unbounded Delays
Authors: Peng Zhimin , Xu Yangyang , Yan Ming , Yin Wotao
Published: June 2018

The article “On the Convergence of Asynchronous Parallel Iteration with Unbounded Delays”, written by Zhimin Peng, Yangyang Xu, Ming Yan, Wotao Yin was originally published electronically on the publisher’s Internet portal (currently SpringerLink) on 9th December 2017 without open access.
Cyclins in aspergilli: Phylogenetic and functional analyses of group I cyclins
Authors: Paolillo V. , Jenkinson C.B. , Horio T. , Oakley B.R.
Published: June 2018

We have identified the cyclin domain-containing proteins encoded by the genomes of 17 species ofAspergillusas well as 15 members of other genera of filamentous ascomycetes. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that the cyclins fall into three groups, as in other eukaryotic phyla, and, more significantly, that they are remarkably conserved in these fungi. All 32 species examined, for example, have three group I cyclins, cyclins that are particularly important because they regulate the cell cycle, and these are highly conserved. Within the group I cyclins there are three distinct clades, and each fungus has a single member of each clade. These findings are in marked contrast to the yeastsSaccharomyces cerevisiae, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, andCandida albicans, which have more numerous group I cyclins. These results indicate that findings on cyclin function made with a modelAspergillusspecies, such asA. nidulans, are likely to apply to other Aspergilli and be informative for a broad range of filamentous ascomycetes. In this regard, we note that the functions of only oneAspergillusgroup I cyclin have been analysed (NimECyclin BofA. nidulans). We have consequently carried out an analysis of the members of the other two clades usingA. nidulansas our model. We have found that one of these cyclins, PucA, is essential, but deletion of PucA in a strain carrying a deletion of CdhA, an activator of the anaphase promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C), is not lethal. These data, coupled with data from heterokaryon rescue experiments, indicate that PucA is an essential G1/S cyclin that is required for the inactivation of the APC/C-CdhA, which, in turn, allows the initiation of the S phase of the cell cycle. Our data also reveal that PucA has additional, non-essential, roles in the cell cycle in interphase. TheA. nidulansmember of the third clade (AN2137) has not previously been named or analyzed. We designate this geneclbA. ClbA localizes to kinetochores from mid G2 until just prior to chromosomal condensation. Deletion ofclbAdoes not affect viability. However, by using a regulatable promoter system new toAspergillus, we have found that expression of a version of ClbA in which the destruction box sequences have been removed is lethal and causes a mitotic arrest and a high frequency of non-disjunction. Thus, although ClbA is not essential, its timely destruction is essential for viability, chromosomal disjunction, and successful completion of mitosis.
L’attaque directe d’enfants-soldats en droit international humanitaire
Authors: PROVOST RENÉ
Published: June 2018

Le fait que des enfants se joignent aux forces armées ou à des groupes armés non étatiques est une terrible réalité qui résiste aux efforts de la communauté internationale pour l’éliminer. La participation directe aux hostilités par des enfants-soldats constitue possiblement l’aspect le plus troublant de cette réalité, en ce qu’elle soulève la possibilité de devoir attaquer directement ces enfants. Le droit international humanitaire reste à ce jour plutôt discret quant à cette facette de la participation des enfants aux conflits armés, laissant les forces armées improviser leur réaction. Les Forces armées canadiennes ont adopté en 2017 ce qui est présenté comme la première doctrine militaire sur les enfants-soldats. Le présent texte propose une analyse de cette doctrine à la lumière de la réglementation de l’emploi de la force contre les enfants-soldats en droit international humanitaire, pour déterminer si les enfants peuvent jamais devenir des combattants à part entière, à quelles conditions ils peuvent être considérés comme civils participant directement aux hostilités, et quelles limites le droit humanitaire impose quant aux choix des moyens et mesures de guerre employés.
Implications of Prenatal Exposure to the Spring 2011 Alabama and Missouri Tornadoes on Birth Outcomes
Authors: Christopher Kenneth E. , Kitsantas Panagiota , Spooner Kiara K. , Robare Joseph F. , Hanfling Dan
Published: June 2018

Objective

Despite emerging evidence of the detrimental effects of natural disasters on maternal and child health, little is known about exposure to tornadoes during the prenatal period and its impact on birth outcomes. We examined the relationship between prenatal exposure to the spring 2011 tornado outbreak in Alabama and Joplin (Missouri) and adverse birth outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional cohort study using the 2010-2012 linked infant births and deaths data set from the National Center for Health Statistics for tornado-affected counties in Alabama (n=126,453) and Missouri (Joplin, n=6,897). Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate associations between prenatal exposure to tornadoes and birth outcomes.

Results

Prenatal exposure to the tornado incidents did not influence birth weight outcomes. Women exposed to Alabama tornadoes were less likely to have a preterm birth compared to unexposed mothers (OR: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.96). Preterm births among Joplin-tornado exposed mothers were slightly higher (13%) compared with unexposed mothers (11.2%). Exposed mothers from Joplin were also more likely to have a cesarean section compared to their counterparts (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.26).

Conclusions

We found no association between tornado exposure and adverse birth weight and infant mortality rates. Our findings suggest that prenatal exposure can amplify the odds for a cesarean section. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2019;13:279–286)
The powerless or the empowered? Stakeholders’ experiences of diagnosis and treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in Ireland
Authors: Carr-Fanning K. , Mc Guckin C.
Published: June 2018

Introduction

In Ireland, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed condition in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). However, little is known about the experiences of stakeholders affected by ADHD in their pathways through care, especially in Ireland.

Objectives

The aim of this stakeholder voice study was to explore stress and coping among parents and Children and Young People (C/YP) affected by ADHD in an Irish context, in order to contribute to knowledge about what works and what needs to change in practice from a service user perspective.

Methods

In total, 15 C/YP (7–18 years) with ADHD and their parents participated in semi-structured interviews, which were triangulated using other sources (e.g. visual methods), to contribute to a highly contextualised understanding of lived experiences. Transcribed interviews were analysed using a deductive approach to Thematic Analysis informed by a theoretical framework of stress and coping theory and Bronfenbrenner’s bio-ecological model.

Results

Some degree of difficulty in their pathway through care was identified by participants in all case studies. Findings identified barriers to diagnosis, including delays in diagnosis, such as scepticism, stigma, and label avoidance from gatekeepers; poor multiagency working; and misdiagnosis. Once received, diagnosis may serve as an access to empowerment, providing knowledge, understanding, and support. However, C/YP and their parents also reported distressing experiences and a sense of powerlessness within CAMHS and with treatment; such as tensions around medical management, stigma, and a lack of child- and family-centred practice.

Conclusions

Despite the professionals and the systematic supports available, stakeholders did not feel that they were fully understood, listened to, or participants in accessing diagnosis and care planning.
Shear localization and wall friction in confined dense granular flows
Authors: Artoni Riccardo , Soligo Alberto , Paul Jean-Marc , Richard Patrick
Published: June 2018

In this work, we discuss experiments and discrete element simulations of wall-bounded shear flows of slightly polydisperse spheres under gravity. Experiments were performed in an annular shear cell in which the bottom bumpy wall rotates at fixed velocity, while a pressure is applied at the top bumpy wall. The coaxial cylinders delimiting the flow are flat, frictional and transparent, allowing visualization of the flow. Velocity profiles were obtained by particle image velocimetry, and are characterized by an exponential profile, the decay length of which depends on the applied load, but not on the wall velocity. A force sensor was installed at different vertical positions on the outer sidewall in order to measure wall forces. The effective streamwise and transverse wall friction coefficients were thus estimated, showing wall friction weakening in creep zones. In order to better understand these results, contact dynamics simulations were carried out in a simplified configuration (Artoni & Richard, Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 115 (15), 2015, 158001). In this case, profiting from the possibility of varying the particle–wall friction coefficient, different flow regimes were observed. In particular, shear can either be localized (1) at the bottom or (2) at the top of the shear cell, or (3) it can be quite evenly distributed in the vertical direction. Through an averaging technique that explicitly takes into account gradient effects (Artoni & Richard, Phys. Rev. E, vol. 91 (3), 2015, 032202), relevant, coarse-grained, continuum fields (solid fraction, velocity, stresses, velocity fluctuations) were obtained. They allow a discussion of the relevance of velocity fluctuations (i.e. granular temperature) for describing non-locality in granular flow. The case of solid-like fluctuations is also addressed. Finally, a simplified stress analysis is devoted to explain the emergence of complex shear localization patterns by the heterogeneity of effective bulk friction, which is due to the joint effect of gravity and wall friction.
Entitlement at work: Linking positive behaviors to employee entitlement
Authors: Langerud Dan H , Jordan Peter J
Published: June 2018

Perceptions of employee entitlement are reported to be increasing in organizations and have been linked to negative outcomes at work. Employee entitlement is an employee’s belief in deserving preferential treatment or reward without regard to performance. Arguments, however, are emerging that entitlement may also be linked to positive behaviors. In this article, we outline a study that examines the moderating effect of self-monitoring on the relationship between employee entitlement and organizational citizenship behavior and affective organizational commitment. Based on survey data collected from 167 individuals, we found that self-monitoring moderated the relationship between the specific subscales of employee entitlement and organizational citizenship behavior but had no relationship to commitment. Although previous studies have addressed entitlement perceptions as a negative outcome for the organization, in this article we outline the potential for positive outcomes. Limitations and future research directions are outlined.
How personal-life inclusion affects Chinese turnover intention? A moderated mediation model of work interference with family and perceived family demands
Authors: Ren Han , Chen Weizheng
Published: June 2018

While an increasing number of studies focus on the positive effects of Chinese supervisor–subordinate guanxi on its focal parties, little research has examined in what situations guanxi may instead cause negative impacts on these individuals. Drawing on conservation of resources theory, the objectives of this study is to identify how the culturally remarkable aspect of supervisor–subordinate guanxi – personal-life inclusion – may cause ‘burden’ for Chinese employees and to reveal the moderated mediation mechanism between personal-life inclusion and turnover intention by examining the mediating role of work interference with family and the moderating effect of perceived family demands. Data were collected from 182 Chinese employees. The results indicate that personal-life inclusion is positively correlated with turnover intention and work interference with family mediates this relationship. Perceived family demands serves as a moderator on the mediated relationship between personal-life inclusion, work interference with family, and turnover intention. We discuss the theoretical and managerial implications of our findings.
Molecular detection of Bartonella species and haemoplasmas in wild African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in Mozambique, Africa
Authors: Gonçalves Luiz Ricardo , Teixeira Marta Maria Geraldes , Rodrigues Adriana Carlos , Mendes Natalia Serra , Matos Carlos Antonio , Pereira Carlos Lopes , Machado Rosangela Zacarias , André Marcos Rogério
Published: June 2018

The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), a mammal species whose population is declining, can play a role as a reservoir or carrier of a wide number of arthropod-borne pathogens. Translocation procedures have been used as an alternative approach for species conservation. However, the veterinary aspects of this sort of procedures are extremely important to minimize the impact on animal health. In order to detectBartonellaand haemoplasmas, two important group of bacterial that have an impact in both human and animal health, EDTA whole-blood samples were screened for the presence of these bacterial pathogens by molecular techniques. As a result, a molecular occurrence of 4.1 and 15.4% forBartonellaspp. and haemoplasmas, respectively, was reported among 97 wild buffaloes sampled during a translocation procedure from Marromeu to Gorongosa Reserve, Mozambique. Additionally, phylogenetic analyses of the obtained sequences were conducted. At least, three bovine-associated pathogens, namelyB. bovis,M. wenyoniiand ‘CandidatusM. haemobos’, as well as a probably newBartonellagenotype/species were detected inS. caffer.Further studies are needed in order to determine whether these bacterial species may cause impact in buffaloes and other sympatric ruminant species living in the release site.
A visit to Biotopia: genre, genetics and gardening in the early twentieth century
Authors: ENDERSBY JIM
Published: June 2018

The early decades of the twentieth century were marked by widespread optimism about biology and its ability to improve the world. A major catalyst for this enthusiasm was new theories about inheritance and evolution (particularly Hugo de Vries's mutation theory and Mendel's newly rediscovered ideas). In Britain and the USA particularly, an astonishingly diverse variety of writers (from elite scientists to journalists and writers of fiction) took up the task of interpreting these new biological ideas, using a wide range of genres to help their fellow citizens make sense of biology's promise. From these miscellaneous writings a new and distinctive kind of utopianism emerged – the biotopia. Biotopias offered the dream of a perfect, post-natural world, or the nightmare of violated nature (often in the same text), but above all they conveyed a sense that biology was – for the first time – offering humanity unprecedented control over life. Biotopias often visualized the world as a garden perfected for human use, but this vision was tinged with gendered violence, as it became clear that realizing it entailed dispossessing, or even killing, ‘Mother Nature’. Biotopian themes are apparent in journalism, scientific reports and even textbooks, and these non-fiction sources shared many characteristics with intentionally prophetic or utopian fictions. Biotopian themes can be traced back and forth across the porous boundaries between popular and elite writing, showing how biology came to function as public culture. This analysis reveals not only how the historical significance of science is invariably determined outside the scientific world, but also that the ways in which biology was debated during this period continue to characterize today's debates over new biological breakthroughs.
Rumors, Kinship Networks, and Rebel Group Formation
Authors: Larson Jennifer M. , Lewis Janet I.
Published: June 2018

While rumors predominate in conflict settings, researchers have not identified whether and why they influence the start of organized armed conflict. In this paper, we advance a new conceptualization of initial rebel group formation that aims to do so. We present a simple game-theoretic network model to show why the structure of trusted communication networks among civilians where rebel groups form—which carry credible rumors about the rebels—can influence whether incipient rebels become viable. We argue further that in rural Sub-Saharan Africa, kinship network structures favorable to nascent rebels often underlie ethnically homogeneous localities, but not heterogeneous ones. In doing so, we advance a new explanation for why ethnicity influences conflict onset, and show why ethnic grievances may not be a necessary condition for the emergence of “ethnic rebellion.” We illustrate our arguments using new evidence from Uganda that provides a rare window into rebel group formation.
In vitrotreatment ofBesnoitia besnoitiwith the naphto-quinone buparvaquone results in marked inhibition of tachyzoite proliferation, mitochondrial alterations and rapid adaptation of tachyzoites to increased drug concentrations
Authors: Müller Joachim , Manser Vera , Hemphill Andrew
Published: June 2018

We here assessed thein vitroefficacy of the naptho-quinone buparvaquone (BPQ) againstBesnoitia besnoititachyzoitesin vitro. BPQ is currently licensed for the treatment of theileriosis in cattle in many countries, but not in the EU. In 4-day treatment assays, BPQ massively impaired tachyzoite proliferation with an IC50of 10 ± 3 nm, and virtually complete inhibition was obtained in the presence of nmBPQ. Exposure to 1µmBPQ leads to ultrastructural changes affecting initially the mitochondrial matrix and the cristae. After 96 h, most parasites were largely distorted, filled with cytoplasmic amylopectin granules and vacuoles containing components of unknown composition. Host cell mitochondria did not appear to be notably affected by the drug. However, upon prolonged exposure (14–16 days) to increased BPQ concentrations,B. besnoititachyzoites exhibited the capacity to adapt, and they resumed proliferation at dosages of up to 10µmBPQ, albeit at a lower rate. These BPQ-adapted parasites maintained this lower susceptibility to BPQ treatment after freeze–thawing, and inspection by the transmission electron microscopy revealed that they underwent proliferation in the absence of structurally intact mitochondria.
Reforming Democracy: Constitutional Crisis and Rousseau's Advice to Geneva
Authors: Verli Dorina
Published: June 2018

Political theorists have relegated Rousseau's writings on Geneva to the category of historical accident, assuming that whatever he had to say about politics was said fully in works like theSocial Contract. This has created a widespread impression that Rousseau had little to say about ordinary political practice. In this paper, I take up his dissection of the Genevan constitution in theLetters from the Mountain. A work which has attracted little attention even from historians, theLettersare in fact essential for understanding Rousseau's thoughts on the people's role in democratic government. His proposals for reform give clear content to the abstract arguments about popular sovereignty presented in theSocial Contract. Against readings that emphasize Rousseau's distrust of the people, theLettersreveal that Rousseau expected popular sovereignty to take the form of active and routine participation in both legislation and government on the part of ordinary citizens.