bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gold nanoparticles crosslinking by peptides and amino acids: A tool for the colorimetric identification of amino acids
Authors: Martínez Álvaro , Scrimin Paolo
Published: March 2018

Gold nanoparticles are known to aggregate in the presence of proper multifunctional compounds. For those larger than 3 nm, the process can be followed with the naked eye because the surface plasmon absorption band of the particles shifts to longer wavelengths and the solution color changes from red to blue. To exploit this property, we have used amino acids and peptides as crosslinking agents in ethanol at low µM concentrations. In the case of amino acids, we report a straightforward protocol for their colorimetric identification. We also report that the presence of precise secondary structure and conformational constraints in oligopeptides, directly influence their crosslinking ability. A discussion on the nature of the interactions that induce these phenomena is also reported.
A longitudinal study of the individual‐ and group‐level problematic gaming and associations with problem gambling among Swedish adolescents
Authors: Vadlin Sofia , Åslund Cecilia , Nilsson Kent W.
Published: March 2018

Aim

The aims of this study were to investigate the long‐term stability of problematic gaming among adolescents and whether problematic gaming at wave 1 (W1) was associated with problem gambling at wave 2 (W2), three years later.

Methods

Data from the SALVe cohort, including adolescents in Västmanland born in 1997 and 1999, were accessed and analyzed in two waves W2, N = 1576; 914 (58%) girls). At W1, the adolescents were 13 and 15 years old, and at W2, they were 16 and 18 years old. Adolescents self‐rated on the Gaming Addiction Identification Test (GAIT), Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), and gambling frequencies. Stability of gaming was determined using Gamma correlation, Spearman's rho, and McNemar. Logistic regression analysis and general linear model (GLM) analysis were performed and adjusted for sex, age, and ethnicity, frequency of gambling activities and gaming time at W1, with PGSI as the dependent variable, and GAIT as the independent variable, to investigate associations between problematic gaming and problem gambling.

Results

Problematic gaming was relative stable over time, γ = 0.739, p ≤ .001, ρ = 0.555, p ≤ .001, and McNemar p ≤ .001. Furthermore, problematic gaming at W1 increased the probability of having problem gambling three years later, logistic regression OR = 1.886 (95% CI 1.125–3.161), p = .016, GLM F = 10.588, η2 = 0.007, p = .001.

Conclusions

Problematic gaming seems to be relatively stable over time. Although associations between problematic gaming and later problem gambling were found, the low explained variance indicates that problematic gaming in an unlikely predictor for problem gambling within this sample.
Meeting the needs of children in foster care with a primary care medical home
Authors: Low Christine M.
Published: March 2018

Children in foster care have often faced complex traumatic childhood experiences; recurring familial separations; loss of familiar environments, neighborhoods, and schools; and perhaps inadequate or inconsistent access to health care and educational opportunities. Out‐of‐home placement into foster care is a stressful, often chaotic experience; accessing adequate health care during this time should not be an additional burden for these vulnerable youth.
Psychotic depression: How to diagnose this often undetected — and hidden — condition
Authors: Stafford Misty
Published: March 2018

Major depressive disorder with psychotic features, commonly referred to as psychotic depression, is a diagnosis that often goes undetected in children, adolescents, and adults alike. One of the most challenging aspects of this disorder is that the patient's delusional pattern of thinking can be subtle in nature, increasing the likelihood that the underlying psychotic component to their presentation will be overlooked by even the most skilled clinicians. Moreover, studies have shown that once patients have been successfully treated for an episode of psychotic depression, they often reflect back to their illness and express having felt reluctance to reveal the extent of the paranoia and delusions they were experiencing due to fear of being labeled as “crazy,” adding an additional degree of difficulty in diagnosing and, ultimately, treating that patient.
Improving the Postsecondary Educational Attainment of Youth in Foster Care
Authors: Dworsky Amy
Published: March 2018

This chapter examines what we know about the disparity in postsecondary educational attainment between youth in foster care and their non‐foster care peers, the reasons for it, and the policies and programs that have been developed to address that disparity. It also discusses the unique role that community colleges can play in reducing this disparity.
Challenges in the Transition to Higher Education for Foster Care Youth
Authors: Piel Megan Hayes
Published: March 2018

This chapter acknowledges the contextual considerations in preparation and success in higher education and establishes a foundation of knowledge for researchers, educators, and practitioners to support foster youth in community college settings.
The Fostering Academics Mentoring Excellence Program
Authors: Day Angelique , Riebschleger Joanne , Wen Jiebing
Published: March 2018

Precollege outreach programs improve college access for underrepresented students; however, information on foster youth engagement in precollege programs is virtually nonexistent. This chapter describes the impact of a precollege program on two‐ and four‐year college enrollment and completion rates.
Creating a Structured Support System for Postsecondary Success
Authors: White Carol Cutler
Published: March 2018

For numerous reasons, it can be difficult for foster youth to succeed in postsecondary education. This chapter offers insight into state‐level policies and programs, community college programs dedicating to supporting foster youth, and a framework for creating a structured support system to increase student success.
The Experiences and Insights of One Community College Foster Alum and One Community College Faculty Advocate
Authors: Westland Melinda A. , Totten Volena
Published: March 2018

Using personal narratives, in this chapter the authors weave together two distinct perspectives to illuminate the stark reality of many students’ experiences as they transition from the foster care system to postsecondary education.
Process‐centric and data‐centric strategies for enhanced production of l‐asparaginase—an anticancer enzyme, using marine‐derived Aspergillus niger
Authors: Vala Anjana K. , Dudhagara Dushyant R. , Dave Bharti P.
Published: March 2018

The objective of the study was to achieve enhanced production of l‐asparaginase (LA), an anticancer enzyme, by a marine‐derived Aspergillus niger isolate. To improve LA production, optimization of pH, incubation time, and inoculum size was performed using process‐centric (response surface methodology [RSM]) and data‐centric (artificial neural network [ANN]) approaches. The optimized conditions led to a 108.62% rise in LA production. Upon comparison of 2 models for enhanced LA production, based on the R2, mean absolute percentage error, root mean square error, and mean absolute deviation values, the ANN model was observed to be superior over the RSM model. To the authors' best knowledge, the present finding is the first ever report revealing detailed analyses for RSM and ANN models for LA production using a marine‐derived fungus.
Dimerization of the Benzyl Radical in a High‐Temperature Pyrolysis Reactor Investigated by IR/UV Ion Dip Spectroscopy
Authors: Hirsch Florian , Constantinidis Philipp , Fischer Ingo , Bakels Sjors , Rijs Anouk M.
Published: March 2018

We investigate the self‐reaction of benzyl, C7H7, in a high‐temperature pyrolysis reactor. The work is motivated by the observation that resonance‐stabilized benzyl radicals can accumulate in reactive environments and contribute to the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and soot. Reaction products are detected by IR/UV ion dip spectroscopy, using infrared radiation from the free electron laser FELIX, and are identified by comparison with computed spectra. Among the reaction products identified by their IR absorption are several PAHs linked to toluene combustion such as bibenzyl, phenanthrene, diphenylmethane, and fluorene. The identification of 9,10‐dihydrophenanthrene provides evidence for a mechanism of phenanthrene formation from bibenzyl that proceeds by initial cyclization rather than an initial hydrogen loss to stilbene.
Experimental and numerical studies of premixed methane‐hydrogen/air mixtures flame propagation in closed duct
Authors: Rao Guoning , Zhang Yun , Cao Weiguo , Zhao Mengke , Gao Wei , Liang Hao , Tan Yinxing
Published: March 2018

In order to reveal flame propagation behaviour and the mechanism of premixed methane‐hydrogen/air mixtures (PMHAM), a pressure recording device was used for testing explosion pressure with different volume fractions of methane‐hydrogen in a closed duct. Results showed that the explosion pressure and pressure rise rate increased with volume fraction up to an optimum fraction of 10 % for a maximum explosion pressure (Pmax) of 0.60 MPa and a pressure rise rate ((dP/dt)max) of 54.93 MPa/s. Meanwhile, a high‐speed video camera was used for testing flame propagation behaviour with the optimum fraction. Results showed that the flame propagation process consisted four dynamic stages—spherical flame, finger‐shape flame, flame touching sidewalls, and tulip flame. Comparison of the numerical and experimental results showed reasonable qualitative and quantitative agreement. Additionally, the numerical simulation was used for addressing technical difficulties of understanding the mechanism of flame propagation. The simulated results confirmed the existence of two large‐scale vortices nearby sidewalls generated by the gas‐flow reflection and back‐streaming; these increased vortices made speed of the flame front touching sidewalls exceed that of the middle, which ultimately resulted in reversal of flame front. This meant that the interactions of gas‐flow reflection, back‐streaming, and vortex motions were the immediate reason of tulip flame.
Use of Olive Mill Wastewater as a Growth Medium for Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase Production
Authors: Değirmenbaşı Didem , Takaç Serpil
Published: March 2018

Microbial processing of food industrial waste, olive mill wastewater (OMW), is a promising route from not only a bioremediation point of view but also for bio‐refinery concept. Enzymes are among numerous products to be valorised from OMW. In this study, production of microbial antioxidant enzymes in OMW is successfully demonstrated for the first time. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities by Rhodotorula glutinis cultivated in OMW in parallel with the biodegradation of wastewater are investigated. The effects of different carbon and nitrogen supplements as well as metal ions added to cultivation medium, temperature, and stress agents are examined to increase SOD and CAT activities. The results show that R. glutinis can grow and produce SOD and CAT in OMW medium. Ethanol as a carbon supplement and urea as a nitrogen supplement provide high enzyme activities. Low temperature stimulates SOD and CAT activities. Mg2+ is the most effective metal ion for both enzyme activities. Treatment of cells with H2O2 increases SOD and CAT activities whereas UV light did not affect the activities considerably. At all conditions, more than 75% decrease in total phenol concentration and about 75% consumption of reducing sugar presented in cultivation medium are obtained.
Optimizing point‐to‐point communication between adaptive MPI endpoints in shared memory
Authors: White Sam , Kale Laxmikant V.
Published: March 2018

Adaptive MPI is an implementation of the MPI standard that supports the virtualization of ranks as user‐level threads, rather than OS processes. In this work, we optimize the communication performance of AMPI based on the locality of the endpoints communicating within a cluster of SMP nodes. We differentiate between point‐to‐point messages with both endpoints co‐located on the same execution unit and point‐to‐point messages with both endpoints residing in the same process but not on the same execution unit. We demonstrate how the messaging semantics of Charm++ enable and hinder AMPI's implementation in different ways, and we motivate extensions to Charm++ to address the limitations. Using the OSU micro‐benchmark suite, we show that our locality‐aware design offers lower latency, higher bandwidth, and reduced memory footprint for applications.
Effect of particle size and heterogeneity on sediment biofilm metabolism and nutrient uptake scaled using two approaches
Authors: Parker Samuel P. , Bowden William B. , Flinn Michael B. , Giles Courtney D. , Arndt Kyle A. , Beneš Joshua P. , Jent Derrick G.
Published: March 2018

Numerous studies have examined the effect of sediment particle size and distribution on community structure, but few have focused explicitly on how physical habitat characteristics influence biogeochemical functions of freshwater biofilms. In this study, we evaluated the effect of particle size and heterogeneity on rates of biofilm metabolism and nutrient uptake in colonized and native sediments normalized using two different scaling approaches. Coarse, pebble‐ to cobble‐sized sediments were sorted into four homogeneous particle size treatments plus one heterogeneous treatment. Each treatment was deployed, in replicate, within one riffle and one run habitat feature in three different high‐latitude stream reaches with contrasting hydrological and physicochemical characteristics. A treatment of native, homogeneous sediment was also evaluated at each deployment location. After incubating for approximately five weeks, metabolism and nutrient uptake of biofilms in all treatments (n = 69) were measured in recirculating microcosm chambers. For each treatment, functional rates were normalized by projected surface area and sediment surface area scaling approaches, which account for the surface area in plan view (looking top‐down) and the total surface area of all sediment particles, respectively. This comparison was designed to determine whether treatment effects were independent of increased surface area associated with smaller particle sizes or heterogeneous sediments. Community respiration and uptake of ammonium‐nitrogen and phosphate‐phosphorus by biofilms decreased significantly as the particle size of homogeneous treatments increased when normalized by projected surface area, but significantly increased with increasing particle size when normalized by sediment surface area. Sediment particle size had a limited influence on production rates evaluated across treatments. Heterogeneous and homogeneous treatments with similar median particle sizes did not differ significantly from one another for most biogeochemical functions measured. Our findings indicate that rates of biogeochemical function in heterogeneous habitats were directly related to the total sediment surface area available for biofilm colonization. The significant interactions between sediment surface area and rates of respiration and nutrient uptake suggest that information about the size and distribution of sediment particles could substantially improve our ability to predict and scale measurements of important biogeochemical functions in streams.
Development of DC‐1 MV Ultrahigh Voltage Generator for ITER
Authors: TAKAHASHI AKESHI , TANAKA TOSHIAKI , YAMAGUCHI KOHEI , FUJITA HIROYUKI , HIRANUMA YUKI , ICHIMURA SATOSHI , WATANABE KAZUHIRO , KASHIWAGI MIEKO , MAEJIMA TETSUYA
Published: March 2018

This paper presents development results of a five‐stage DC‐1MV Ultrahigh Voltage Generator for ITER. Each generator outputs −200 kV, and the total five generators are connected in series and outputs −1 MV. In order to realize the DC‐1MV output and 1‐h continuous operation, a feasibility of both gas insulation and gas cooling for semiconductor devices was validated. A simplified structure with stud‐type diodes and heatsinks resulted in the compatibility of enough insulation distance and wide cooling surface. Withstand voltage tests and a temperature rise test were performed for the actual equipment of the rectifier and the step‐up transformer. These test results verified the validity of the proposed design.
Synthesis of a Photo‐Caged DOPA Derivative by Selective Alkylation of 3,4‐Dihydroxybenzaldehyde
Authors: Schneider Tobias , Kubyshkin Vladimir , Budisa Nediljko
Published: March 2018

Natural and synthetic polymers containing the catechol moiety of noncoded amino acid 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) are capable of metal‐coordination and adhesion under wet conditions. Masking the catechol subunit with a photo‐cleavable group would provide an opportunity to design tunable adhesion properties that are especially important for biomaterial and biomedicine applications. Herein, we report the regioselective synthesis of a photo‐caged DOPA bearing an ortho‐nitrobenzyl (oNB) group that is capable of undergoing cleavage upon irradiation with UV light. We developed a selective synthetic route towards a 3‐O‐oNB alkylated DOPA regioisomer that can be readily incorporated into proteins by using a previously developed bio‐expression platform. The synthesis is based on a regioselectivity switch in 3,4‐dihydrozybenzaldehyde alkylation upon application of different equivalents of deprotonating base. The enantiomerically pure 3‐O‐oNB‐DOPA was prepared on a gram scale and proved to be generally compatible with the solid‐phase peptide synthesis conditions. We also demonstrate the general applicability of the developed synthetic strategy by providing the synthesis of 3‐O‐methyl‐DOPA.
Seasonality of dipteran-mediated methylmercury flux from ponds
Authors: Chumchal Matthew M. , Drenner Ray W. , Hall MacGregor N. , Polk D. Kirkland , Williams Edward B. , Ortega-Rodriguez Celeste L. , Kennedy James H.
Published: March 2018

Methylmercury (MeHg) is an aquatic contaminant that can be transferred to terrestrial predators by emergent aquatic insects. We assessed the effects of month and pond permanence on dipteran-mediated MeHg flux (calculated as emergent dipteran biomass × dipteran MeHg concentration) in 10 experimental ponds. Emergent dipterans were collected weekly from permanent ponds with bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus; n = 5) and semipermanent ponds without fish (n = 5) over a 7-mo period (February–August, 2015). We detected a significant effect of month on MeHg flux from 6 dipteran taxa and aggregate MeHg flux, with the highest MeHg flux from herbivorous/detritivorous chironomid midges and predatory midges in March; biting midges, phantom midges and herbivorous/detritivorous orthoclad midges in April; and mosquitoes in August. Aggregate dipteran-mediated MeHg flux peaked in April and then declined throughout the remainder of the summer. We did not detect a significant main effect of pond permanence or a significant month × pond permanence interaction effect on MeHg flux for any of the taxa examined in the present study or for aggregate MeHg flux. Given their ubiquity in aquatic systems and their importance in food webs at the land–water interface, dipterans are important taxa that should not be overlooked as a part of the Hg cycle. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1846–1851. © 2018 SETAC

Abstract

Methylmercury (MeHg) is an aquatic contaminant that can be transferred to terrestrial predators by emergent aquatic insects, such as midges (i.e., dipterans). In the present study, dipteran-mediated MeHg flux was strongly regulated by season but not pond permanence and the presence of fish.
Chiral MoS2 Quantum Dots: Dual‐Mode Detection Approaches for Avian Influenza Viruses
Authors: Ahmed Syed Rahin , Neethirajan Suresh
Published: March 2018

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a type of transition metal dichalcogenide material, has emerged as an important class among 2D systems. When 2D MoS2 materials are reduced to 0D quantum dots (QDs), they introduce new optical properties that point to several potential technological advantages in electronic, magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties. In this study, a simple way to produce chiral MoS2 QDs from MoS2 nanopowder is presented using l(+)‐ascorbic acid as a reducing agent. The calculated quantum yield of QDs is 11.06%. Experimental results reveal that the size of QDs is uniformly monodispersed (2–3 nm) and have a blue emissive fluorescence peak and circular dichroism (CD) peak located at 420 and 330 nm, respectively. Furthermore, a dual‐mode detection system based on fluorescence and chirality is performed using as‐synthesized MoS2 QDs, where QDs are conjugated with anti‐hemagglutinin antibodies of avian influenza virus and made into an immunobridge in the presence of target virus and anti‐neuraminidase antibodies conjugated magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). The photoluminescence and CD spectra of unconjugated QDs after separated magnetochirofluorescent (MNPs‐QDs) nanohybrids by external magnets enables influenza virus A (H5N1) detection with the limit of detection value of 7.35 and 80.92 pg mL−1, respectively.
Distribution trends of Indonesia's health care resources in the decentralization era
Authors: Paramita Sekar Ayu , Yamazaki Chiho , Setiawati Elsa Pudji , Koyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2018

Indonesia has been decentralized since 2001, and we evaluated the distribution trends of physicians, puskesmas (community health centers), hospitals, and hospital beds in 34 provinces in Indonesia for 2000 to 2014. Inequality index of Gini showed improvement of the distribution of physicians and decreased from 0.38 to 0.29. The indices in distributions of hospitals and hospital beds also decreased from 0.26 to 0.17 and from 0.25 to 0.18, respectively. However, the index in the distribution of puskesmas increased from 0.19 to 0.28. We also investigated the legislative transitions of the laws concerning health resources and found the strong affects of compulsory work laws for physicians and the increment of health budget. In the decentralization era, the local governments have some political autonomy for the development of health resources; however, the national government should monitor the nationwide distribution of health resources and advice necessary recommendations to the local governments.
Rainfall, run‐off, and sediment transport dynamics in a humid mountain badland area: Long‐term results from a small catchment
Authors: Nadal‐Romero Estela , Peña‐Angulo Dhais , Regüés David
Published: March 2018

In this study, we investigated rainfall, run‐off, and sediment transport dynamics (414 run‐off events and 231 events with sediment information) of a humid mountain badland area—the Araguás catchment (Central Pyrenees, Spain)—from October 2005 to September 2016. Use of this long‐term database allows characterization of the hydrological response, which consist of low‐magnitude/high‐frequency events and high‐magnitude/low‐frequency events, and identification of seasonal dynamics and rainfall‐run‐off thresholds. Our results indicate that the Araguás catchment, similarly to other humid badlands, had high hydrological responsiveness (mean annual run‐off coefficient: 0.52), a non‐linear relationship of rainfall with run‐off (common in Mediterranean environments), and seasonal hydrological and sedimentological dynamics. We created and validated a multivariate regression model to characterize the hydrological variables (stormflow and peak discharge) and sedimentological variables (mean and maximum suspended sediment concentrations and total suspended sediment load). In summer and at the beginning of autumn, the response was mainly related to rainfall intensity, suggesting a predomination of Hortonian flows. In contrast, in spring and winter, the responses were mainly related to the antecedent conditions (previous rainfall and baseflow), suggesting the occurrence of saturated excess flow processes, and the contribution of neighbouring vegetated areas. The multivariate analysis also showed that total sediment load is better predicted by a multivariate regression model that integrates pre‐event, rainfall, and run‐off variables. In general, our models provided more accurate predictions of small‐magnitude/high‐frequency events than high‐magnitude/low‐frequency events. This study highlights the high inter‐ and intra‐annual variability response in humid badland areas and that long‐term records are needed to reduce the uncertainty of hydrological and sedimentological responses in Mediterranean badland areas.
Comparison between Clément's First Formula and Other Statistical Distributions in A Real Irrigation Network
Authors: Pérez‐Sánchez Modesto , Carrero Lina María , Sánchez‐Romero Francisco Javier , Amparo López‐Jiménez P.
Published: March 2018

When irrigation pressurized systems are designed on demand, the flow determination in each line is crucial. To do so, Clément's First Formula is the most used methodology worldwide. Nevertheless, sometimes the use of this methodology can promote the oversizing of networks. This research verifies, by a proposed methodology, whether the normal flow distribution hypothesis corresponds to a real flow distribution in the network. In order to achieve this objective, statistical comparative analyses (visual and numerical) were performed between a theoretical and a real flow distribution that were registered in an irrigation network in Spanish Mediterranean region. When the normal distribution was not verified, other distribution functions were proposed by Matlab's functions. When the methodology was applied throughout the year in the case study, particularly for this irrigation network, the generalized extreme value function was found to be one of the better fit options to represent the distribution flow in 11 of the 12 months. The corroboration of this function in other networks could contribute to the design of more sustainable and optimized networks. If the flow distributions are more realistic when irrigation networks are designed, efficiency will increase, reducing the energy footprint in the distribution and, therefore, the exploitation costs. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Costs of Confronting Osteoporosis: Cost Study of an Australian Fracture Liaison Service
Authors: Major Gabor , Ling Rod , Searles Andrew , Niddrie Fiona , Kelly Ayano , Holliday Elizabeth , Attia John , Bogduk Nikolai
Published: March 2018

Fracture liaison services (FLS) are an accepted approach to lowering rates of osteoporotic refractures. However, resource allocations to FLS are open to challenge, as most relevant cost analyses are based on anticipated, rather than observed, benefits. To support informed decision making, we have estimated the cost of operating an FLS, from the perspective of the Australian health system, with real life costs. On the basis of hospital records, we compared total costs of two cohorts of patients presenting with minimal trauma fractures (MTFs) at two hospital emergency departments (EDs) across a 6‐month period (July to December 2010). The treatment cohort (FLS Cohort, n = 515) attended an ED at a hospital offering FLS post‐fracture care; the Usual Care Cohort (n = 416) attended an ED at a hospital without an FLS. Hospital records were reviewed for further attendance of both groups at their respective hospitals’ EDs with refractures for the subsequent 3 years. Costs were constructed from “bottom up” with a “microcosting” approach. Total costs for both cohorts included any FLS and the costs of refractures. Cohort costs were estimated for every 1000 patients over the 3 observed years. Compared with the Usual Care Cohort, the FLS Cohort had 62 fewer fractures per 1000 patients and $617,275 lower costs over 3 years. In a sensitivity analysis, where 20% of the Usual Care Cohort received FLS preventative treatment, FLS Cohort costs were lower by $880,154. As both hospitals consistently process around 2000 patients per year, the estimated annual saving is $1.2 million to $1.8 million (Australian dollars). From the perspective of the Australian public health system, investment in FLS can be a financially effective way of reducing the cost of osteoporotic fracture management. © 2018 The Authors JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bisphosphonate Drug Holiday and Fracture Risk: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Adams Annette L , Adams John L , Raebel Marsha A , Tang Beth T , Kuntz Jennifer L , Vijayadeva Vinutha , McGlynn Elizabeth A , Gozansky Wendolyn S
Published: March 2018

Holidays from bisphosphonates (BPs) may help to prevent rare adverse events such as atypical femoral fractures, but may be appropriate only if risk of osteoporosis-related fractures does not increase. Our objective was to compare the incidence of osteoporosis-related fractures among women who had a BP holiday to those who continued to use BPs. This retrospective cohort study, conducted within four Kaiser Permanente integrated health system regions, included 39,502 women aged ≥45 years with ≥3 years exposure to BP. Participants with a BP holiday (≥12 months with no use) were compared to persistent (use with ≥50% adherence) and nonpersistent (use with <50% adherence) users for incident osteoporosis-related fractures. The BP holiday (n = 11,497), nonpersistent user (n = 10,882), and persistent user groups (n = 17,123) were observed for 156,657 person-years. A total of 5199 osteoporosis-related fractures (including 1515 hip fractures and 2147 vertebral fractures) were observed. Compared to the persistent use group, there was a slight difference in overall osteoporosis-related fracture risk (HR 0.92; 95% CI, 0.84 to 0.99)and no difference in hip fracture risk (HR 0.95; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.10) for the BP holiday group. A slight reduction in risk of vertebral fracture was observed (HR 0.83; 95% CI, 0.74 to 0.95). Compared to the nonpersistent user group, the BP holiday group was at decreased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures (HR 0.71; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.79), vertebral fractures (HR 0.68; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.78), and hip fractures (HR 0.59; 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.70). Women who undertake a BP holiday from BP of ≥12 months duration for any reason after ≥3 years of BP use do not appear to be at greater risk of osteoporosis-related fragility fracture, hip, or vertebral fractures compared to ongoing BP users. In our cohort, BP holiday remains a viable strategy for balancing the benefits and potential harms associated with long-term BP use. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Biochemical and pharmacological characterization of Trimersurus malabaricus snake venom
Authors: Gowda Raghavendra , Rajaiah Rajesh , Angaswamy Nataraj , Krishna Sharath , Bannikuppe Sannanayak Vishwanath
Published: March 2018

Trimeresurus malabaricus is a venomous pit viper species endemic to southwestern part of India. In earlier reports, we have shown that envenomation by T. malabaricus venom leading to strong local tissue damage but the mechanism of action is not clearly revealed. Local tissue damage affected by T. malabaricus venom is of great importance since the poison has serious systemic effects including death in the case of multiple attacks. The present study details the major manifestations of T. malabaricus venom and the induction of local tissue damage, which suggests that most toxins are present in the form of hydrolytic enzymes. Hydrolytic activity of the enzymes was measured and the data indicated that protease and phospholipase A2 activity was high which is responsible for local tissue damage. Furthermore, the role of hydrolytic enzymes in the induction of pathological events such as hemorrhage, edema, myotoxicity, and blood coagulation examination were assessed through animal models.
Appraising reappraisal: Exploring its role in the context of behavioral exposure for contamination fears
Authors: Wilson Anne C. , Aldao Amelia , Cheavens Jennifer
Published: March 2018

Objectives

A large body of work suggests that cognitive reappraisal is an effective strategy for modifying emotional intensity. In addition, its habitual use has been linked to adaptive psychological functioning, operationalized as low levels of symptoms of psychopathology. However, little is known about the impact of cognitive reappraisal on behavioral aspects of mental disorders. For example, the experience of fear is often accompanied by the behavioral urge to avoid the feared stimuli. Although there is evidence to suggest that cognitive reappraisal reduces fear in the moment, there is less information about the impact on behavioral correlates.

Method

To that end, we recruited 90 participants who experienced substantial contamination concerns (i.e., obsessive‐compulsive disorder symptoms) and asked them to participate in exposure tasks that consisted of gradually coming into contact with contaminated objects (i.e., approach behavior). We randomly assigned participants to one of three conditions: (1) reappraise the emotion‐eliciting stimulus, (2) reappraise their emotional response, or (3) no specific emotion regulation instructions.

Results

Reappraising the stimulus, but not reappraising the emotional response, led to significantly greater behavioral approach (p = .02) than the no‐instruction condition during exposure. There were no significant differences in subjective state anxiety between any of the conditions.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that certain types of reappraisal may lead to greater approach behavior during exposure even in the absence of subjective emotional changes. More broadly, they underscore the importance of examining the role of emotion regulation strategies (including different types of reappraisal) on the behavioral aspects of mental disorders.
Community income inequality and adolescent emotional problems: A population‐based study
Authors: Vilhjalmsdottir Arndis , Bernburg Jon Gunnar , Gardarsdottir Ragna B. , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora
Published: March 2018

This study contributes to the limited knowledge on the association between community income inequality and adolescent emotional problems, and explores whether these associations are contingent on national income inequality and personal deprivation. We obtained multilevel data from 10,223 adolescents (aged 15–16 years) nested within 82 communities in Iceland, at two time points: (a) in 2006 when income inequality was high and (b) in 2014 when income inequality had decreased. The associations are contingent on time period. Community income inequality was related to (a) an increase in anxiety in 2006 (b = 0.337,p≤ 0.05), but not in 2014, and (b) a decrease in depression in 2014 (−0.958,p≤ 0.05), but not in 2006. In 2006, community income inequality was more harmful to adolescents in deprived households. The results support the notion that the detrimental link between income inequality and adolescents’ emotional problems may be shaped by the level of income inequality in the larger societal context.
Novel insights into the role of mitochondrial fusion and fission in cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by ischemia/reperfusion
Authors: Li YuZhen , Liu XiuHua
Published: March 2018

As the main source of energy in the body, mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles, which are constantly going through fusion and fission. The fine balance of mitochondrial fusion and fission plays an important role in maintaining the stability of cardiomyocyte homeostasis. The processes of mitochondrial fusion and fission are very complex, which is mediated by fusion and fission proteins. Disruptions in these processes through controlling fusion and fission proteins affect mitochondrial functions and cardiomyocyte survival. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) can regulate the expression and post‐translational modifications of fusion and fission proteins thereby inducing the abnormality of mitochondrial fusion and fission and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Furthermore, intervention with the expression and function of fusion and fission proteins influences on cardiomyocyte apoptosis under I/R conditions. In this review, we focus on the current developments in the effects of mitochondrial fusion and fission on cardiomyocyte functions, the implications for cardiomyocyte apoptosis in response to I/R, and possible mechanisms. And we review their roles as a potential therapeutic target for treating I/R‐induced cardiomyocyte injury.
Fabrication and characterization of novel antimicrobial thin film nano‐composite membranes based on copper nanoparticles
Authors: Yahia Cherif Asma , Arous Omar , Mameri Nabil , Zhu Junyong , Ammi Said Abdallah , Vankelecom Ivo , Simoens Kenneth , Bernaerts Kristel , Van der Bruggen Bart
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) are studied for the design of advanced nanocomposite membranes owing to their highly antimicrobial properties, specific catalytic and chemical activities, abundancy and low cost. In this work, thin film nanocomposite membranes (TFN) containing CuNPs in the polyamide (PA) layer were designed via a facile interfacial polymerization method. The nanoparticles were incorporated into an aqueous solution containing piperazine monomers which is poured on the top surface of the polyethersulfone ultrafiltration membrane followed by adding trimesoyl chloride to form a polymerized PA film.

RESULTS

The results show that the surface morphological structure investigated by scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy images is subject to visible changes of surface morphology, with a rougher net‐like structure while analysis of the chemical structure using attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirms that the introduction of CuNPs did not impede the structure of the PA layer.

The effect of addition of inorganic functionalized nanomaterials on the overall membrane performance was significant. The water flux was greatly increased (twice the original water permeability), while maintaining high retention of Na2SO4, demonstrating good performance in the range of nanofiltration (NF). Furthermore, the TFN membranes exhibited a specific antibacterial effect, reducing the number of living bacteria (Escherichia coli) by 94.0%.

CONCLUSION

Inorganic functionalization using CuNPs in the aqueous phase strongly enhanced membrane performance and provided the membrane surface with antimicrobial properties. This study suggests a new approach to TFN membrane research for the design of NF membranes for water treatment. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Scanning electron microscopy as a tool for authentication of oil yielding seed
Authors: Fatima Anam , Zafar Muhammad , Ahmad Mushtaq , Yaseen Ghulam , Sultana Shazia , Gulfraz Muhammad , Khan Amir Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Now‐a‐days, plant species are consumed globally for various purposes and this increasing demand leads to adulteration due to gradually exploitation in natural resources. The major causes of adulteration may be confusion in nomenclature, unawareness of authentic sources, unavailability of authentic sources, color resemblances, deficiencies in collection procedures, and misidentification. This study aims to use the microscopic techniques such as scanning electron microscopy for the authentication of the oil yielding seeds of four important and traditionally used species Prunus persica, Prunus domestica, and Eruca sativa and Argemone Mexicana from their adulterants. All of these are versatile in usage. Locally, these four plants are adulterated badly and there is need to provide a criteria and a complete monograph for correct identification. This research may prove to be helpful for quality control and as well for future studies to explore other novel aspects of these plants.
Diversity‐oriented Construction of Chromanone‐fused Polycyclic Pyrrolidinyl‐dispirooxindoles
Authors: Feng Ting‐Ting , Gong Yi , Wei Qi‐Di , Wang Guan‐Lian , Liu Huan‐Huan , Tian Min‐Yi , Liu Xiong‐Li , Chen Zhi‐Yong , Zhou Ying
Published: March 2018

Achieved herein is a novel diversity‐oriented one‐pot multicomponent synthesis of polycyclic pyrrolidinyl‐dispirooxindoles 3. The key pyrrolidine forming reaction is the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition event of isatylidenyl‐chromanones 2 with azomethine ylides (thermally generated in situ from isatins and proline or thioproline). Products bearing four consecutive stereocenters consist of two oxindole moieties and a pyrrolidinyl core, including vicinal spiroquaternary stereocenters fused in one ring structure, were smoothly obtained in high yields (up to 89% yield) with good diastereoselectivity (up to >20:1). Valuable feature of this method was the design of new hybrid architectures for biological screenings through creating molecular diversity and complexity by means of the generation of several bonds and rings in a single operation. In particular, their biological activity against human leukemia cells K562 and normal L929 cells have been evaluated. These results suggested changes of this chromanone group could obviously impact the activity, and a chromanone group located in the polycyclic pyrrolidinyl‐dispirooxindoles is beneficial for the activity. What is more, the results also indicated that chromanone‐fused polycyclic pyrrolidinyl‐dispirooxindoles 3 have selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells K562 compared with normal cells L929.
Synthesis of Some Novel Class of Regioselective Spiro Isoxazolidine Derivatives via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction of N‐Benzyl‐C‐fluoro‐substituted Phenyl Nitrones in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Chakraborty Bhaskar , Chettri Esmita
Published: March 2018

Synthesis of some new class of regioselective spiro isoxazolidine derivatives have been described using N‐benzyl‐C‐fluoro substituted‐phenyl nitrones with new dipolarophiles via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction in ionic liquid. The novel spiro cycloadducts found to exhibit good synthetic potentiality as they could be converted into synthetically more important spiro 1,3‐amino alcohols. Simple reaction methodology, noninvolvent of catalysts, good to excellent yields, and greener approaches are the important features noticed in this syntheses.
Synthesis of 2‐amino‐4‐(2‐ethoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐4H‐pyran‐3‐Carbonitrile Derivatives and Their Biological Evaluation
Authors: Baitha Amresh , Gopinathan Ajay , Krishnan Kartik , Dabholkar Vijay V.
Published: March 2018

A new class of substituted 2‐amino‐4‐(2‐ethoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐4H‐pyran‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives catalyzed by Imidazole under mild reaction conditions has been developed. A variety of functionalized 2‐amino‐4‐(2‐ethoxybenzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐4H‐pyran‐3‐carbonitrile scaffolds were assembled in high yields by this catalytic protocol. The newly synthesized compounds have been characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectral data. The compounds were then evaluated for antimicrobial activities.
Axial complex and associated structures of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus pallidus (Sars, G.O. 1871) (Echinodermata: Echinoidea)
Authors: Ezhova Olga Vladimirovna , Malakhov Vladimir Vasil'yevich , Egorova Ekaterina Alekseevna
Published: March 2018

Studies of echinoid microscopic anatomy over the last two centuries have created a number of inaccuracies and mistakes that have accumulated in the descriptions of the intricate organization of the coelomic system of Echinoidea. To clarify the situation, we reconstructed the axial complex and radial complex of the echinoid Strongylocentrotus pallidus. The water ring is located between the perivisceral coelom and the perioral coelom. The oral haemal ring lies between the coelothelia of the water‐vascular, perivisceral, and perioral rings. The axial part of the axial organ communicates with the oral haemal ring in interradius CD, but the axial coelom does not form the axocoelomic perihaemal ring. The ventral intestinal haemal vessel originates from the oral haemal ring in radius A, and then branches into a network of capillaries, from which the dorsal intestinal vessel starts. The pericardial coelom envelopes the pericardial part of the axial organ, the lacunae of which communicate with the haemocoel of the body wall and with the axial part of the axial organ. The genital haemal ring and the dorsal intestinal vessel communicate with the axial organ. The genital coelom passes in the CD interradius on the side opposite to the hindgut. There is a somatocoelomic perihaemal ring, which sends a pair of coelomic outgrowths into each radius, accompanied by a radial haemal vessel in the oral part. The mistakes and inaccuracies of early descriptions of the echinoid axial complex are listed. The axial complex and associated structures of sea urchins are compared with other eleutherozoans.
Impacts of climate change on reference evapotranspiration in the Qilian Mountains of China: Historical trends and projected changes
Authors: Lin Pengfei , He Zhibin , Du Jun , Chen Longfei , Zhu Xi , Li Jing
Published: March 2018

Global climate change is likely to affect reference evapotranspiration (ET0) and the use of water resources for vegetation management. Our goals were to identify spatio‐temporal characteristics of ET0 and factors controlling the change in ET0 and to project spatio‐temporal changes in the Qilian Mountains of China under the future climate conditions. Changes in ET0 were estimated by the Penman–Monteith method for 22 meteorological stations from 1960 to 2015. We quantified the attributions of climatic factors with the differentiation equation method. Then, we assessed the spatio‐temporal changes in projected ET0 with CanESM2 model outputs and statistical downscaling model for three representative concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios for years 2016–2100. We found that annual ET0 averaged across the region was 1001.5 mm, with an insignificant decrease of −0.43 mm/year during 1960–2015. The lowest values were present in the alpine region in the central area, while the highest ET0 was detected in the western region. An annual and seasonal “evaporation paradox” existed in the Qilian Mountains during the past few decades. Mean daily air temperature measured (Tmean) and wind speed (U2) were the dominant factors in ET0 change. However, the decreasing trend in ET0 may be due to a diminished effect of Tmean triggered by short‐wave radiation (R
s), actual vapour pressure (e
a), and wind speed (U2), but especially by the substantial reduction in U2 at most stations. Compared with the baseline, ET0 is likely to increase by 6.31–7.20, 6.11–10.41, and 6.58–17.66%, respectively, under RCP scenarios of 2.6 (very low forcing scenario), 4.5 (medium stabilization scenario), and 8.5 (very high emission scenario), but RCP2.6 ET0 rates level off and even decline after 2050 while RCP4.5 rates climb only marginally after 2050. Thus, ET0 projected with the CanESM2 model displayed an upwards trend in the Qilian Mountains, especially the central alpine region.
The Effects of Extrinsic Motivation on Scientific and Artistic Creativity among Middle School Students
Authors: Xue Yukang , Gu Chuanhua , Wu Jingjing , Dai David Yun , Mu Xiaolin , Zhou Zongkui
Published: March 2018

The present study tested the effects of extrinsic motivation on scientific and artistic creativity among Chinese middle school students. In Study 1, a between‐groups design was applied to examine the effects of expected rewards on scientific and artistic creativity among 123 students, and in Study 2 the same design was applied to examine the effects of expected evaluation from different raters on scientific and artistic creativity among 120 students. We also considered the effects of grade and gender in both studies. The results of Study 1 indicated that expected material reward had significant negative effects on scientific creativity for 7th graders, while expected social reward had significant positive effects on scientific creativity for 8th graders, and both expected material and social rewards had significant positive effects on artistic creativity. The results of Study 2 indicated that expected evaluation from teachers and classmates had significant negative effects on scientific creativity and significant positive effects on artistic creativity. These results suggest that there is no one‐size‐fits‐all answer to the effects of extrinsic motivation and creativity, Factors such as culture, type of extrinsic motivation, grade, and domains of creativity must be fully considered when cultivating adolescents’ creativity.