bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anti‐Arthritis Effect of Olive‐Derived Maslinic Acid in Mice is Due to its Promotion of Tissue Formation and its Anti‐Inflammatory Effects
Authors: Shimazu Kyoko , Fukumitsu Satoshi , Ishijima Tomoko , Toyoda Tsudoi , Nakai Yuji , Abe Keiko , Aida Kazuhiko , Okada Shinji , Hino Akihiro
Published: November 2018

Scope

A previous study demonstrated that intake of olive pomace extract containing maslinic acid (MA), a triterpene, effectively prevents and alleviates arthritis in animals and humans. Here, the molecular mechanisms involved in the anti‐arthritis effect of MA have been elucidated by determining gene expression changes induced by olive‐derived MA intake in collagen antibody‐induced arthritis (CAIA) mice.

Methods and results

Mice are divided into the untreated (CT), CAIA (CA), and CAIA administered MA (CA + MA) groups. The CA + MA mice are fed MA at a daily dose of 200 mg kg–1of body weight from day 1. CAIA is then induced on day 8 and evaluated on day 12. Arthritis symptoms are alleviated, and the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines is reduced in the CA + MA group compared with the CA group. A DNA microarray analysis of synovial membranes reveals that MA alters the expression levels of genes related to inflammation, including glucocorticoid responses, immune responses, and the extracellular matrix.

Conclusions

The preventive effect of MA on arthritis is attributable to the promotion of tissue formation as well as suppression of inflammation in the synovium via inactivation of Toll‐like receptor signaling and downregulation of leukotrienes through the glucocorticoid receptor.
Nutritionally Derived Metabolic Cues Typical of the Obese Microenvironment Increase Cholesterol Efflux Capacity of Adipose Tissue Macrophages
Authors: O'Reilly Marcella E. , Kajani Sarina , Ralston Jessica C. , Lenighan Yvonne M. , Roche Helen M. , McGillicuddy Fiona C.
Published: November 2018

Background

Cholesterol retention within plasma membranes of macrophages is associated with increased inflammatory signaling. Cholesterol efflux via the transporters ABCA1, ABCG1, and SR‐BI to high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) particles is a critical mechanism to maintain cellular cholesterol homeostasis. Little is known about the impact of the obese microenvironment on cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) of macrophages. In this study, the CEC of obese‐derived primary adipose‐tissue macrophages (ATM) is evaluated and the in vivo microenvironment is modeled in vitro to determine mechanisms underlying modulated CEC.

Materials and Methods

F4/80+ ATM are labeled with 3H‐cholesterol ex vivo, and CEC and ABCA1/ABCG1 protein levels are determined. Total, ABCA1‐dependent, and ABCA1‐independent CECs are determined in J774 macrophages polarized to M1 (LPS&IFNγ), M2 (IL‐4&IL‐13), or metabolic phenotypes (glucose, insulin, and palmitic acid).

Results

Obese ATM exhibit enhanced CEC and ABCA1 and ABCG1 expression compared to lean ATM. In contrast, ABCA1‐CEC is suppressed from M1 polarized macrophages compared to untreated in vitro, by activation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Incubation of macrophages in vitro in high glucose augments cAMP‐induced ABCA1 protein expression and ABCA1‐CEC.

Conclusions

These novel findings demonstrate remarkable plasticity of macrophages to respond to their environment with specific modulation of ABCA1 depending on whether classical pro‐inflammatory or metabolic cues predominate.
Low‐profile wideband Fabry‐Perot resonator antenna using artificial magnetic conductor surface
Authors: Tran Huy Hung , Nguyen‐Trong Nghia , Nguyen Truong Khang
Published: November 2018

A low‐profile, high gain Fabry‐Perot Resonator antenna with a wide operation bandwidth (BW) is presented in this paper. The proposed design consists of an ellipse‐shaped dipole as a wideband radiating source, which is reflected by an artificial magnetic conductor ground plane to achieve low‐profile structure. The antenna gain can be significantly enhanced by the use of a half‐wavelength‐thick dielectric slab as a partial reflecting surface. Additionally, this dielectric slab also contributes to improving the radiation pattern characteristics of the proposed design, especially in the high frequency region. A final prototype with an overall size of 1.2λ
L × 1.2λ
L × 0.4λ
L (λ
L is free‐space wavelength at the lowest frequency of 3‐dB gain BW) has been fabricated to validate the concept. The measured results show that the proposed antenna yielded a wide 3‐dB gain BW of approximately 50.3% with a peak gain of 14 dBi and impedance matching BW of 48.9%.
The eggstraordinary story of how life begins
Authors: Parrington John , Arnoult Christophe , Fissore Rafael A.
Published: November 2018

More than 15 years have elapsed since the identification of phospholipase C ζ1 (PLCζ) from a genomic search for mouse testis/sperm‐specific PLCs. This molecule was proposed to represent the sperm factor responsible for the initiation of calcium (Ca2+) oscillations required for egg activation and embryo development in mammals. Supporting evidence for this role emerged from studies documenting its expression in all mammals and other vertebrate species, the physiological Ca2+ rises induced by injection of its messenger RNA into mammalian and nonmammalian eggs, and the lack of expression in infertile males that fail intracytoplasmic sperm injection. In the last year, genetic animal models have added support to its role as the long sought‐after sperm factor. In this review, we highlight the findings that demonstrated the role of Ca2+ as the universal signal of egg activation and the experimental buildup that culminated with the identification of PLCζ as the soluble sperm factor. We also discuss the structural–functional properties that make PLCζ especially suited to evoke oscillations in eggs. Lastly, we examine unresolved aspects of the function and regulation of PLCζ and whether or not it is the only sperm factor in mammalian sperm.
Expression profiles of interferon‐stimulated gene 15 and prostaglandin synthases in the ovine lymph nodes during early pregnancy
Authors: Yang Ling , Wang Qingkai , Liu Yong , Zhang Leying , Lv Wan , Liu Baoliang
Published: November 2018

Lymph nodes are distributed all over the body and are part of the lymphatic system. The interferon‐stimulated gene 15 kDa protein (ISG15) and prostaglandins (PGs) are involved in the establishment of pregnancy and are expressed in the uterus during early pregnancy in sheep. In this study, the ovine lymph nodes were obtained on Day 16 of the estrous cycle, and Days 13, 16, and 25 of pregnancy, and the expression of ISG15 and PG synthases, including cyclooxygenase 1 (COX‐1), COX‐2, prostaglandin E (PGE) synthase (PTGES), and a PGF synthase (aldo‐keto reductase family 1, member B1, AKR1B1) were detected by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry analysis. Our results showed that there were peaks in the expression of mRNAs and the proteins of ISG15, COX‐1, COX‐2, PTGES, and AKR1B1 in the lymph nodes during early pregnancy and that the COX‐2 and AKR1B1 proteins were limited to the subcapsular sinus and lymph sinuses. In conclusion, the ISG15, COX‐1, COX‐2, PTGES, and AKR1B1 were upregulated in the maternal lymph nodes, which may be beneficial for the development of conceptus, maternal systemic immunoregulation, and anti‐luteolysis during early pregnancy in sheep.
Uterine RGS2 expression is regulated by exogenous estrogen and progesterone in ovariectomized mice, and downregulation of RGS2 expression in artificial decidualized ESCs inhibits trophoblast spreading in vitro
Authors: Jiang Manxi , Hu Liangshan , Wang Baoping , Chen Danxia , Li Yahong , Zhang Zhen , Zhu Yan
Published: November 2018

Embryo implantation is a complicated event that relies on two critical factors: the competent blastocyst and the receptive uterus. Successful implantation results from tight coordination of these two factors. The maternal hormone environment of the uterus and molecular cross‐talk between the embryo and uterine tissue play pivotal roles in implantation. Here we showed that regulator of G‐protein signaling 2 (RGS2), a member of ubiquitous family of proteins that regulate G‐protein activation, plays an important role in embryo implantation by interfering in the cross‐talk between the embryo and uterine tissue. RGS2 expression increased during the implantation process, and was higher in the implant site than at the nonimplantation site. Meanwhile, ovariectomized (OVX) mice exhibited higher expression of RGS2 in the uterus. Exogenous 17β‐estradiol and progesterone in OVX mice downregulated the expression of RGS2. Treatment with exogenous 17β‐estradiol alone caused uterine RGS2 messenger RNA levels of OVX mice to return to those of normal female mice; when these mice were treated with progesterone or 17β‐estradiol plus progesterone, RGS2 levels rose. Downregulation of Rgs2 by small interfering RNA in an in vitro coculture system of decidualized endometrial stromal cells and blastocysts inhibited blastocyst outgrowth by restricting trophoblast spreading, suggesting a mechanism by which RGS2 regulates embryo implantation.
Preconditioning for boundary control problems in incompressible fluid dynamics
Authors: Heidel Gennadij , Wathen Andy
Published: November 2018

PDE‐constrained optimization problems arise in many physical applications, prominently in incompressible fluid dynamics. In recent research, efficient solvers for optimization problems governed by the Stokes and Navier–Stokes equations have been developed, which are mostly designed for distributed control. Our work closes a gap by showing the effectiveness of an appropriately modified preconditioner to the case of Stokes boundary control. We also discuss the applicability of an analogous preconditioner for Navier–Stokes boundary control and provide some numerical results.
Klippel–Feil syndrome with associated cervical rib in a human skeleton from Wągrowiec (Poland, 14th–17th centuries)
Authors: Drupka Beata , Wysocka Joanna , Nowaczewska Wioletta
Published: November 2018

This paper presents congenital anomalies characteristic of Klippel–Feil syndrome, type II, diagnosed in the skeleton of a young to middle‐aged woman uncovered in a cemetery adjacent to the Church of St. Jacob the Apostle in Wągrowiec (Poland), from a grave within an archaeological layer dated to the 14th–17th centuries. A rare type of fusion was identified between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae only, co‐occurring with a well‐developed right cervical rib fused to the shaft of the first thoracic rib and articulated via synovial joints with the seventh cervical vertebra. The fusion of the cervical vertebrae involved their bodies, right laminae, and parts of the right articular processes. The interpretation of the presence of Klippel–Feil syndrome is additionally supported by the absence of any evidence of trauma in the cervical region of the spine or of pathological changes in the skeleton indicative of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis or ankylosing spondylitis. The formation of Schmorl's nodes and degenerative changes in apophyseal joint surfaces diagnosed in the cervical vertebrae were probably secondary in relation to the observed congenital anomalies. Additionally, examinations revealed ossified insertions of the ligamentum flavum and degenerative changes of the vertebrae in the lower region of the spine as well as incomplete posterior bridge of the atlas, torus mandibularis, and humerus septal aperture.
Tailor‐made multicomponent electrospun polyurethane nanofibrous composite scaffold comprising olive oil, honey, and propolis for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Jaganathan Saravana Kumar , Mani Mohan Prasath , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Prabhakaran Praseetha , Nageswaran Gomathi
Published: November 2018

The treatment for the bone diseases or defects such as tumor ablation, bone cysts and osteolysis were still challenging in clinical applications. Recently, the bone tissue engineering has emerged as a potential option for the treatment of bone defects. In this study, the nanofibrous composite scaffold consisting of polyurethane, olive oil, honey and propolis were fabricated through electrospinning method. The morphology of the nanofibrous scaffold indicated that nanofibers diameters were reduced with the addition of olive oil, honey and propolis into the Polyurethane (PU). The contact angle measurements showed that the behavior of PU/olive oil was found to hydrophobic (114° ± 1.528) and the PU/olive oil/honey/propolis scaffold rendered hydrophilic behavior (60° ± 1.528). FTIR and TG analysis revealed the interactions of PU with olive oil, honey/propolis and increased thermal stability of the composites. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis displayed reduced surface roughness of the fabricated nanocomposite (PU/olive oil—469 nm and PU/olive oil/honey/propolis—449 nm) than the pristine PU (576 nm). The incorporation of olive oil, honey, and propolis resulted in the enhancement of the tensile strength (PU/olive oil—12.91 MPa and PU/olive oil/honey/propolis—14.346 MPa) compared with the pristine PU (7.12 MPa) as revealed in the mechanical testing. The blood clotting time of PU/olive oil (Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT)—175 ±4 s and Partial thromboplastin time (PT)—103.3 ±3.512) was enhanced than pristine PU suggesting its improved anticoagulant behavior. Further, the developed scaffold showed low hemolytic index percentage (PU/olive oil—1.41% and PU/olive oil/honey/propolis—0.95%) than the control (2.48%) indicating its safety with RBC. Cytotoxicity test of the electrospun scaffold with human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells using 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H tetrazolium assay demonstrated the non‐toxic and enhanced cell viability rates of HDF cells in developed scaffold than the pristine PU. Hence, the PU/olive oil/honey/propolis nanocomposite possessing better mechanical, physio‐chemical and biological properties might serve as a plausible candidate for bone tissue engineering. POLYM. COMPOS., 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Screening and Identification of Pregnancy Zone Protein and Leucine‐Rich Alpha‐2‐Glycoprotein as Potential Serum Biomarkers for Early‐Onset Myocardial Infarction using Protein Profile Analysis
Authors: Xuan Chao , Li Hui , Li Le‐Le , Tian Qing‐Wu , Wang Qing , Zhang Bei‐Bei , Guo Jun‐Jie , He Guo‐Wei , Lun Li‐Min
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The present study aims to discover novel serum biomarkers of early‐onset myocardial infarction (MI) using proteomic analysis.

Experimental design

In the first stage, the iTRAQ‐coupled LC–MS/MS technique is utilized to investigate protein profiles of patients with early‐onset MI. In the second stage, these candidate proteins are validated using ELISA.

Results

A total of 538 proteins are quantified, with pregnancy zone protein (PZP), leucine‐rich α‐2‐glycoprotein (LRG) and Apolipoprotein C‐I (Apo C‐I) being upregulated and Apolipoprotein A‐I (Apo A‐I) and Apolipoprotein A‐IV (Apo A‐IV) downregulated in early‐onset MI patients. Results from the validation stage demonstrate that the serum concentrations of PZP and LRG are significantly increased in the early‐onset MI group. The correlation between the concentrations of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and the two candidate biomarkers is positive. Area under the curve values used to diagnose early‐onset MI for LRG and PZP are 0.939 and 0.874, respectively.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Five differential serum proteins are identified in early‐onset MI using proteomic analysis. Lipoprotein‐related biomarkers further demonstrate the close relationship between lipid metabolism and the disease. Inflammation‐associated LRG and PZP may be novel biomarkers of the disease. In addition, changes in these proteins may partly reveal the possible mechanisms in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of early‐onset MI.
Front Cover: Cover Image, Volume 74, Issue 12
Authors: Xu Shu , Zhao Xingzeng , Liu Fei , Cao Yan , Wang Bi , Wang Xiangyun , Yin Min , Wang Qizhi , Feng Xu
Published: November 2018

The front cover image describes the invasion of Xoo through the water pores (structurally resembles an ordinary stoma but is usually larger) of host plant. Based on the Research Article Crucial role of oxidative stress in bactericidal effect of parthenolide against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae by Shu Xu et al., DOI: 10.1002/ps.5091.

image
A simple test for the treatment effect in clinical trials with a sequential parallel comparison design and negative binomial outcomes
Authors: Homma Gosuke , Daimon Takashi
Published: November 2018

In placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, randomized clinical trials, the presence of placebo responders reduces the effect size for comparison of the active drug group with the placebo group. An attempt to resolve this problem is to use the sequential parallel comparison design (SPCD). Although there are SPCDs with dichotomous or continuous outcomes, an SPCD with negative binomial outcomes—with which investigators deal eg, in clinical trials involving multiple sclerosis, where the investigators are still concerned about the presence of placebo responders—has not yet been discussed. In this article, we propose a simple test for the treatment effect in clinical trials with an SPCD and negative binomial outcomes. Through simulations, we show that the analysis method achieves the nominal type I error rate and power, whereas the sample size calculation provides the sample size with adequate power accuracy.
A new variable control chart under failure‐censored reliability tests for Weibull distribution
Authors: Khan Nasrullah , Aslam Muhammad , Raza Syed Muhammad Muslim , Jun Chi‐Hyuck
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we propose a new variable control chart under type II or failure‐censored reliability tests by assuming that the lifetime of a part follows the Weibull distribution with fixed and stable shape parameter. The purpose is to monitor the mean and the variance of a Weibull process. In fact, the mean and the variance are related to the scale parameter. The necessary measures are given to calculate the average run length (ARL) for in‐control and shifted processes. The tables of ARLs are presented for various shift constants and specified parameters. A simulation study is given to show the performance of the proposed control chart. The efficiency of the proposed control chart is compared with a control chart based on the conditional expected value under type II censoring. An example is also given for the illustration purpose.
Virus detection by transmission electron microscopy: Still useful for diagnosis and a plus for biosafety
Authors: Roingeard Philippe , Raynal Pierre‐Ivan , Eymieux Sébastien , Blanchard Emmanuelle
Published: November 2018

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is the only imaging technique allowing the direct visualization of viruses, due to its nanometer‐scale resolution. Between the 1960s and 1990s, TEM contributed to the discovery of many types of viruses and served as a diagnostic tool for identifying viruses directly in biological samples, either in suspension or in sections of tissues or mammalian cells grown in vitro in contact with clinical samples. The diagnosis of viral infections improved considerably during the 1990s, with the advent of highly sensitive techniques, such as enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and PCR, rendering TEM obsolete for this purpose. However, the last 20 years have demonstrated the utility of this technique in particular situations, due to its “catch‐all” nature, making diagnosis possible through visualization of the virus, without the need of prior assumptions about the infectious agent sought. Thus, in several major outbreaks in which molecular techniques failed to identify the infectious agent, TEM provided the answer. TEM is also still occasionally used in routine diagnosis to characterize infections not diagnosed by molecular assays. It is also used to check the microbiological safety of biological products. Many biopharmaceuticals are produced in animal cells that might contain little‐known, difficult‐to‐detect viruses. In this context, the “catch‐all” properties of TEM make it possible to document the presence of viruses or virus‐like particles in these products.
Nussbaum gain adaptive backstepping control of nonlinear strict‐feedback systems with unmodeled dynamics and unknown dead zone
Authors: Ma Hui , Liang Hongjing , Ma Hongjun , Zhou Qi
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates an adaptive state feedback control problem for a class of single‐input and single‐output nonlinear systems with strict‐feedback form. A novel adaptive control strategy is developed for nonlinear systems with unmodeled dynamics, unknown control directions, dynamic disturbances and unknown dead zone. To stabilize this category of systems, a dynamic signal is introduced to dominate the unmodeled dynamics. Nussbaum gain technique is used to overcome the unknown control directions problem. Nonlinear damping terms are framed to counteract the dynamic disturbances, and the assistant signal is constructed to compensate the influence of symmetric dead zone. The adaptive control approach ensures all signals in the closed‐loop system to be bounded. Finally, a numerical example is used to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Practical issues in using generalized estimating equations for inference on transitions in longitudinal data: What is being estimated?
Authors: Bible Joe , Albert Paul S. , Simons‐Morton Bruce G. , Liu Danping
Published: November 2018

Generalized estimating equations (GEEs) are commonly used to estimate transition models. When the Markov assumption does not hold but first‐order transition probabilities are still of interest, the transition inference is sensitive to the choice of working correlation. In this paper, we consider a random process transition model as the true underlying data generating mechanism, which characterizes subject heterogeneity and complex dependence structure of the outcome process in a very flexible way. We formally define two types of transition probabilities at the population level: “naive transition probabilities” that average across all the transitions and “population‐average transition probabilities” that average the subject‐specific transition probabilities. Through asymptotic bias calculations and finite‐sample simulations, we demonstrate that the unstructured working correlation provides unbiased estimators of the population‐average transition probabilities while the independence working correlation provides unbiased estimators of the naive transition probabilities. For population‐average transition estimation, we demonstrate that the sandwich estimator fails for unstructured GEE and recommend the use of either jackknife or bootstrap variance estimates. The proposed method is motivated by and applied to the NEXT Generation Health Study, where the interest is in estimating the population‐average transition probabilities of alcohol use in adolescents.
Poly(ethylene glycol)/Polyvinyl chloride Composite Form‐Stable Phase‐Change Materials by the Azide‐Alkyne Click Reaction
Authors: Oktay Burcu
Published: November 2018

Thermal energy storage has become a key area in modern technology. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is known to be an extremely effective solid–liquid phase change material (PCM). For efficient energy storage, alternative liquid–solid PCMs without encapsulation were designed. In particular, a series of PCMs, comprising PEG–stearate and PEG–stearate–Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were prepared by the azide‐alkyne cycloaddition click reaction. The click reactions of azido‐PEG, azido‐PVC, and alkynyl stearate were carried out. The prepared polymers, PEG–stearate and PEG–stearate–PVC PCMs were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy. The latent heat and thermal stability of PCMs were investigated by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). DSC results revealed that PCMs exhibit latent heat values ranging from 80 to 104 J/g at ‐2 and 46°C. In addition, PCMs exhibited high thermal stability with the increase in the content of PVC.
Synthesis and Preliminary In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Thiirane‐Based Slow‐Binding MMP Inhibitors as Potential Radiotracers for PET Imaging
Authors: Hohn Michael , Chang Mayland , Meisel Jayda E. , Frost Emma , Schwegmann Katrin , Hermann Sven , Schäfers Michael , Riemann Burkhard , Haufe Günter , Breyholz Hans‐Jörg , Wagner Stefan
Published: November 2018

Many serious diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis and arthritis are characterized by upregulation of activated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). For this reason imaging and quantification of activated MMPs with the molecular imaging techniques such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) using radiolabeled MMP inhibitors would be a valuable tool for the diagnosis and therapy planning of mentioned diseases. This work aims at the synthesis and preliminary in vitro and in vivo evaluation of positron‐emitter 18F‐fluorine labeled radiotracers based on 2‐{[(4‐phenoxyphenyl)sulfonyl]methyl}thiirane (SB‐3CT), a slow‐binding and mechanism‐based MMP‐2 and −9 inhibitor. Therefore, a library of fluorinated SB‐3CT derivatives were prepared and evaluated in vitro in MMP inhibition assays. From this pool the 18F‐labeled triazole [18F]18d was successfully synthesized in a two‐step procedure. However, this compound was unstable in human and mouse serum and showed a biodistribution behavior in C57BL/6 mice that is not favorable for PET imaging preventing further in vivo evaluations in MMP‐associated mouse models of disease.
Quinic Acid‐Conjugated Nanoparticles Enhance Drug Delivery to Solid Tumors via Interactions with Endothelial Selectins
Authors: Xu Jun , Lee Steve Seung‐Young , Seo Howon , Pang Liang , Jun Yearin , Zhang Ruo‐Yu , Zhang Zhong‐Yin , Kim Pilhan , Lee Wooin , Kron Stephen J. , Yeo Yoon
Published: November 2018

Current nanoparticle (NP) drug carriers mostly depend on the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect for selective drug delivery to solid tumors. However, in the absence of a persistent EPR effect, the peritumoral endothelium can function as an access barrier to tumors and negatively affect the effectiveness of NPs. In recognition of the peritumoral endothelium as a potential barrier in drug delivery to tumors, poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) NPs are modified with a quinic acid (QA) derivative, synthetic mimic of selectin ligands. QA‐decorated NPs (QA‐NP) interact with human umbilical vein endothelial cells expressing E‐/P‐selectins and induce transient increase in endothelial permeability to translocate across the layer. QA‐NP reach selectin‐upregulated tumors, achieving greater tumor accumulation and paclitaxel (PTX) delivery than polyethylene glycol‐decorated NPs (PEG‐NP). PTX‐loaded QA‐NP show greater anticancer efficacy than Taxol or PTX‐loaded PEG‐NP at the equivalent PTX dose in different animal models and dosing regimens. Repeated dosing of PTX‐loaded QA‐NP for two weeks results in complete tumor remission in 40–60% of MDA‐MB‐231 tumor‐bearing mice, while those receiving control treatments succumb to death. QA‐NP can exploit the interaction with selectin‐expressing peritumoral endothelium and deliver anticancer drugs to tumors to a greater extent than the level currently possible with the EPR effect.
Surface Engineering of Nanomaterials for Photo‐Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Yao Bin , Zhang Jing , Fan Xiaoli , He Jianping , Li Yat
Published: November 2018

Photo‐electrochemical water splitting represents a green and environmentally friendly method for producing solar hydrogen. Semiconductor nanomaterials with a highly accessible surface area, reduced charge migration distance, and tunable optical and electronic property are regarded as promising electrode materials to carry out this solar‐to‐hydrogen process. Since most of the photo‐electrochemical reactions take place on the electrode surface or near‐surface region, rational engineering of the surface structures, physical properties, and chemical nature of photoelectrode materials could fundamentally change their performance. Here, the recent advances in surface engineering methods, including the modification of the nanomaterial surface morphology, crystal facet, defect and doping concentrations, as well as the deposition of a functional overlayer of sensitizers, plasmonic metallic structures, and protective and catalytic materials are highlighted. Each surface engineering method and how it affects the structural features and photo‐electrochemical performance of nanomaterials are reviewed and compared. Finally, the current challenges and the opportunities in the field are discussed.
Improving the Sensitivity of Fluorescence‐Based Immunoassays by Photobleaching the Autofluorescence of Magnetic Beads
Authors: Roth Shira , Hadass Orr , Cohen Meir , Verbarg Jasenka , Wilsey Jennifer , Danielli Amos
Published: November 2018

In fluorescence‐based assays, usually a target molecule is captured using a probe conjugated to a capture surface, and then detected using a second fluorescently labeled probe. One of the most common capture surfaces is a magnetic bead. However, magnetic beads exhibit strong autofluorescence, which often overlaps with the emission of the reporter fluorescent dyes and limits the analytical performance of the assay. Here, several widely used magnetic beads are photobleached and their autofluorescence is reduced to 1% of the initial value. Their autofluorescence properties, including their photobleaching decay rates and autofluorescence spectra pre‐ and post‐photobleaching, and the stability of the photobleaching over a period of two months are analyzed. The photobleached beads are stable over time and their surface functionality is retained. In a high‐sensitivity LX‐200 system using photobleached magnetic beads, human interleukin‐8 is detected with a threefold improvement in detection limit and signal‐to‐noise ratio over results achievable with nonbleached beads. Since many contemporary immunoassays rely on magnetic beads as capture surfaces, prebleaching the beads may significantly improve the analytical performance of these assays. Moreover, nonmagnetic beads with low autofluorescence are also successfully photobleached, suggesting that photobleaching can be applied to various capture surfaces used in fluorescence‐based assays.
Sustainable self compacting hybrid fiber reinforced concrete using waste materials
Authors: Mahapatra Chinmaya K. , Barai Sudhirkumar V.
Published: November 2018

The current study investigates the behavior of hybrid fiber reinforced self compacting concrete (HyFRSCC) with crimped steel fibers (CSF) and polypropylene fibers (PPF) along with class F type fly ash (FA) and colloidal nano silica (CNS). To ascertain the fresh properties of self compacting concrete, the maximum volume of fiber content is restricted. The L16 orthogonal array of Taguchi method is followed to avoid the huge amount of experiments. In comparison to the control mix, mechanical properties of concrete are increased due to the combined effect of FA, CNS, CSF, and PPF. Rapid chloride penetration test is conducted to study the durability aspect of hardened concrete. Non‐destructive tests like ultrasonic pulse velocity and rebound hammer tests are conducted for the characterization of the properties of concrete. Based on the present study, a combination of FA, CNS, CSF, and PPF is proposed for an optimal recommendation in producing a ready‐mix type of HyFRSCC.
First occurrence of Rift Valley fever outbreak in Niger, 2016
Authors: Lagare Adamou , Fall Gamou , Ibrahim Alkassoum , Ousmane Sani , Sadio Bacary , Abdoulaye Mariama , Alhassane Abdou , Mahaman Ali Elh , Issaka Bassira , Sidikou Fati , Zaneidou Maman , Bienvenue Baruani , Djingarey Mamoudou Harouna , Bailo Diallo Amadou , Kadadé Goumbi , Testa Jean , Boubacar Mainassara Halima , Faye Ousmane
Published: November 2018

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito‐borne viral zoonosis causing abortions and high mortality among animals, whereas in humans, the disease is usually mild or asymptomatic. In September 2016, the Republic of Niger declared the first RVF outbreak in the northern region of Tahoua near the Malian border. This study describes the outbreak and reports the results of serological and molecular investigations of the human and animal samples collected. Serum samples from both human and animal suspected cases have been confirmed at the Centre de Recherche Médicale et Sanitaire (CERMES) and the Laboratoire Centrale d'Elevage (LABOCEL) public health and animal reference laboratories, respectively. Techniques for biological confirmation were real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Phylogenetic trees were established after genetic sequencing of the small and medium segments of the RVF virus (RVFV) genome. Out of the 399 human samples collected, 17 (4.3%) were confirmed positive for RVFV. Overall, 33 (8.3%) deaths occurred out of which five (29%) were among the 17 confirmed cases. Regarding animals, 45 samples were tested, three of which were RT‐PCR positive and 24 were IgG positive. The phylogenetic analyses showed that the Niger strains clustered with Senegal 2013 and Mauritania 2015 RVFV strains. This first outbreak of RVF was very challenging for public and animal health laboratories in Niger. Besides resulting in human deaths, important loss of cattle has been reported. Therefore, vigilance has to be strengthened emphasising vector control strategies and active surveillance among animals.
Domain walls in a non-linear $$ {\mathbb{S}}^2 $$-sigma model with homogeneous quartic polynomial potential
Authors: Alonso-Izquierdo A. , Balseyro Sebastián A. J. , González León M. A.
Published: November 2018

Abstract

In this paper the domain wall solutions of a Ginzburg-Landau non-linear

$$ {\mathbb{S}}^2 $$

S
2

-sigma hybrid model are exactly calculated. There exist two types of basic domain walls and two families of composite domain walls. The domain wall solutions have been identified by using a Bogomolny arrangement in a system of sphero-conical coordinates on the sphere

$$ {\mathbb{S}}^2 $$

S
2

. The stability of all the domain walls is also investigated.
Unified formulation for helicity and continuous spin fermionic fields
Authors: Alkalaev Konstantin , Chekmenev Alexander , Grigoriev Maxim
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We propose a unified BRST formulation of general massless fermionic fields of arbitrary mixed-symmetry type in d-dimensional Minkowski space. Depending on the value of the real parameter the system describes either helicity fields or continuous spin fields. Starting with the unified formulation we derive a number of equivalent descriptions including the triplet formulation, Fang-Fronsdal-Labastida formulation, light-cone formulation and discuss the unfolded formulation.
Back reaction of 4D conformal fields on static black-hole geometry
Authors: Ho Pei-Ming , Kawai Hikaru , Matsuo Yoshinori , Yokokura Yuki
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Static, spherically symmetric black hole solutions to the semi-classical Einstein equation are studied, including the effect of the quantum energy-momentum tensor for conformal matters with 4D Weyl anomaly. Through both perturbative and non-perturbative methods, we show that the quantum effect can play a crucial role in shaping the nearhorizon geometry, and that the existence of the horizon requires fine-tuning.
In search of a UV completion of the standard model — 378,000 models that don’t work
Authors: Barducci D. , Fabbrichesi M. , Nieto C. M. , Percacci R. , Skrinjar V.
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Asymptotically safe extensions of the Standard Model have been searched for by adding vector-like fermions charged under the Standard Model gauge group and having Yukawa-like interactions with new scalar fields. Here we study the corresponding renormalization group β-functions to next and next-to-next to leading order in the perturbative expansion, varying the number of extra fermions and the representations they carry. We test the fixed points of the β-functions against various criteria of perturbativity to single out those that are potentially viable. We show that all the candidate ultraviolet fixed points are unphysical for these models: either they are unstable under radiative corrections, or they cannot be matched to the Standard Model at low energies.
An operational definition of quark and gluon jets
Authors: Komiske Patrick T. , Metodiev Eric M. , Thaler Jesse
Published: November 2018

Abstract

While “quark” and “gluon” jets are often treated as separate, well-defined objects in both theoretical and experimental contexts, no precise, practical, and hadron-level definition of jet flavor presently exists. To remedy this issue, we develop and advocate for a data-driven, operational definition of quark and gluon jets that is readily applicable at colliders. Rather than specifying a per-jet flavor label, we aggregately define quark and gluon jets at the distribution level in terms of measured hadronic cross sections. Intuitively, quark and gluon jets emerge as the two maximally separable categories within two jet samples in data. Benefiting from recent work on data-driven classifiers and topic modeling for jets, we show that the practical tools needed to implement our definition already exist for experimental applications. As an informative example, we demonstrate the power of our operational definition using Z+jet and dijet samples, illustrating that pure quark and gluon distributions and fractions can be successfully extracted in a fully well-defined manner.
Phase 1 study of everolimus and low-dose oral cyclophosphamide in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Huijts Charlotte M. , Werter Inge M. , Lougheed Sinéad M. , Goedegebuure Ruben S. , van Herpen Carla M. , Hamberg Paul , Tascilar Metin , Haanen John B. , Verheul Henk M. , de Gruijl Tanja D. , van der Vliet Hans J. ,   for the Dutch WIN-O Consortium
Published: November 2018

mTOR inhibitors are frequently used in the treatment of metastatic renal cell cancer (mRCC). mTOR regulates cell growth, proliferation, angiogenesis, and survival, and additionally plays an important role in immune regulation. Since mTOR inhibitors were shown to benefit immunosuppressive regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion, this might suppress antitumor immune responses. Metronomic cyclophosphamide (CTX) was shown to selectively deplete Tregs. This study was, therefore, designed to determine the optimal dosage and schedule of CTX when combined with everolimus to prevent this potentially detrimental Treg expansion. In this national multi-center phase I study, patients with mRCC progressive on first line anti-angiogenic therapy received 10 mg everolimus once daily and were enrolled into cohorts with different CTX dosages and schedules. Besides immune monitoring, adverse events and survival data were monitored. 40 patients, 39 evaluable, were treated with different doses and schedules of CTX. Combined with 10 mg everolimus once daily, the optimal Treg depleting dose and schedule of CTX was 50 mg CTX once daily. 23 (59%) patients experienced one or more treatment-related ≥ grade 3 toxicity, mostly fatigue, laboratory abnormalities and pneumonitis. The majority of the patients achieved stable disease, two patients a partial response. Median PFS of all cohorts was 3.5 months. In conclusion, the optimal Treg depleting dose and schedule of CTX, when combined with everolimus, is 50 mg once daily. This combination leads to acceptable adverse events in comparison with everolimus alone. Currently, the here selected combination is being evaluated in a phase II clinical trial.

Trial registration

NCT01462214.
Mechanically Induced Periprosthetic Osteolysis: A Systematic Review
Authors: McArthur Benjamin A. , Scully Ryan , Patrick Ross F. , Bostrom Mathias P. G. , Falghren Anna
Published: November 2018

Background

Peri-prosthetic bone loss can result from chemical, biological, and mechanical factors. Mechanical stimulation via fluid pressure and flow at the bone–implant interface may be a significant cause. Evidence supporting mechanically induced osteolysis continues to grow, but there is no synthesis of published clinical and basic science data.

Questions/Purposes

We sought to review the literature on two questions: (1) What published evidence supports the concept of mechanically induced osteolysis? (2) What is the proposed mechanism of mechanically induced osteolysis, and does it differ from that of particle-induced osteolysis?

Methods

A systematic review was performed of the PubMed and Web of Science databases. Additional relevant articles were recommended by the senior authors based on their expert opinion. Abstracts were reviewed and the manuscripts pertaining to the study questions were read in full. Studies showing support of mechanically induced osteolysis were quantified and findings summarized.

Results

We identified 49 articles of experimental design supporting the hypothesis that mechanical stimulation of peri-prosthetic bone from fluid pressure and flow can induce osteolysis. While the molecular mechanisms may overlap with those implicated in particle-induced osteolysis, mechanically induced osteolysis appears to be mediated by distinct and parallel pathways.

Conclusions

The role of mechanical stimuli is increasingly recognized in the pathogenesis of peri-prosthetic osteolysis. Current research aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms to better target therapeutic interventions.
Cerebral Oxygenation in the Sitting Position is Not Compromised During Spontaneous or Positive-Pressure Ventilation
Authors: YaDeau Jacques T. , Kahn Richard L. , Lin Yi , Goytizolo Enrique A. , Gordon Michael A. , Gadulov Yuliya , Garvin Sean , Fields Kara , Goon Amanda , Armendi Isabel , Dines David M. , Craig Edward V.
Published: November 2018

Background

General anesthesia with neuromuscular blockade may facilitate total shoulder arthroplasty but appears to increase risk of cerebral oxygen desaturation. Cerebral desaturation is undesirable and is a proxy for risk of stroke.

Purposes/Questions

This study tested the hypothesis that cerebral oxygen desaturation occurs frequently during general anesthesia with neuromuscular blockade and positive-pressure ventilation but does not occur with spontaneous ventilation. Correlations were sought among cerebral oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and cardiac index.

Methods

We designed a prospective, observational, cohort study to measure cerebral oxygenation in 25 patients during general anesthesia, both with and without positive-pressure ventilation. Patients undergoing elective shoulder arthroplasty in the sitting position received an arterial catheter, near-infrared spectroscopic measurement of cerebral oxygenation, and non-invasive cardiac output measurement. Moderate hypotension was allowed. Blood pressure was supported as needed with ephedrine or low-dose epinephrine (but avoiding phenylephrine). Hypercapnia (45 to 55 mmHg) was targeted during positive-pressure ventilation.

Results

No cerebral oxygen desaturations occurred, regardless of ventilation mode. Under positive-pressure ventilation, the median (interquartile range: Q1, Q3) cerebral oxygenation was 110% of baseline (104, 113), the mean arterial pressure was 62% of baseline (59, 69), and the cardiac index was 82% of baseline (71, 104). Cerebral oxygenation did not correlate with blood pressure or cardiac index but had moderate correlation with end-tidal carbon dioxide. No strokes occurred.

Conclusions

There were no signs of inadequate brain perfusion during general anesthesia using paralytic agents. Positive-pressure ventilation with moderate hypotension in the sitting position does not endanger patients, in the context of moderate hypercapnia and hemodynamic support using ephedrine or epinephrine.
The CESuRa System: Allowing Changes in a Rail Track Profile While Maintaining Full Vertical Support
Authors: Foan Andy , Thonstad Travis , Stanton John F.
Published: November 2018

A light rail passenger transportation system is being built in Seattle, WA, USA, that traverses Lake Washington over an existing pontoon bridge. The water level in Lake Washington changes throughout the year. This causes rotations of the transition spans, which are needed at each end of the bridge to carry traffic between the fixed, land-based structure, and the floating structure. This paper explains a novel method, the Curved Element Supported Rail (CESuRa) system, that provides rails with the ability to undergo joint rotations at the ends of the transitions spans without risk of damage, while maintaining full vertical support of the track across the joint. The geometric characteristics on which it depends for proper operation, considerations that must be accounted for when using the system for other applications in the future, and an overview of the implementation of the system on the floating bridge are discussed.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Sexual Problems and Distress in Chinese Unmarried Young Women: An Observational Study
Authors: Lo Sue Seen-Tsing , Kok Wai-ming
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Research conducted in the West has shown that sexual function and distress was common in white women from younger to older adulthood; however, little research attention to date has been given to Chinese young women.

Aim

Our primary aim is to assess the prevalence and factors associated with sexual problems and distress in Chinese unmarried young women.

Methods

Between November 2015 and June 2017, 431 young women who visited 3 sexual health clinics completed an anonymous questionnaire detailing their demographics, sexual behavior, current sexual relationship, sexual function, and sexual distress. Descriptive bivariate analysis and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual function and distress were assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R), respectively.

Results

Overall, 76 young women (17.6%) obtained total FSFI score ≤23.45 (Chinese cut-off), 47 of whom scored 11 or above for FSDS-R. Individual domain and total FSFI scores were significantly correlated with FSDS-R score (P < .001). Based on domain scores, 35.5%, 18.8%, 12.8%, and 10.7% of them were at risk for orgasmic, pain, arousal, and desire problems, respectively. Arousal and lubrication problems were strongly associated with distress. Sexual problems were associated with not initiating sex (odds ratio [OR] 2.50, P = .001), often had sexual fantasy (OR 0.55, P = .036), and willingness for vaginal sex (OR 0.49, P < .001). Sexual distress was associated with having life stressors (OR 1.88, P = .012) and willingness for vaginal sex (OR 0.61, P = .003). Self-perception of body being unattractive to boyfriend (OR 3.33, P = .015), not initiating sex (OR 3.21, P = .001), willingness for vaginal sex (OR 0.39, P < .001), and no life stressors (OR 0.46, P = .036) were associated with both sexual problem and distress.

Clinical Implications

Physicians should be alerted to sexual problems in young women and encourage those with distress to seek help.

Strengths & Limitations

Using validated psychometric tools to assess sexual problems and distress provides reference for future comparison. Admission and recall biases are unavoidable in observational questionnaire study. Depression was not evaluated and might bias the estimation of distress.

Conclusion

About 11% of Chinese young women had sexual problems and were distressed (ie, sexual dysfunction). They were characterized by having a self-perception that their body was unattractive to their boyfriend, not initiating sex, unwilling for vaginal sex, and having life stressors.