bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De ‘non-human (f)actor’ in cybercrime
Authors: van der Wagen Wytske , Bernaards Frank
Published: October 2018

The non-human (f)actor in cybercrime. Cybercriminal networks seen from a cyborg crime perspective

Botnets, banking malware and other high-tech crimes are increasingly analyzed by criminological scholars. Their distributed and automated nature poses however various theoretical challenges. This article presents an alternative approach, denoted as the ‘cyborg crime’ perspective, which adopts a more hybrid view of networks and also assigns an active role to technology. The value of this approach is demonstrated by reflecting on findings from earlier empirical work that analyzes conversations between cybercriminals involved in botnets and related activities. The research shows that technological nodes can take an important position in the organizational structure of cybercriminal networks and do not merely have a functional role. Viewing technology as an actor within a criminal network might offer new criminological insights in both the composition of these networks and how to disrupt them.
The influence of modifications in the intestinal microbiota composition on changes in anthropometric parameters in people with excessive body weight
Authors: Banach Katarzyna , Glibowski Paweł
Published: October 2018

Obesity is a chronic disease, which is often accompanied by disorders of the carbohydrates and lipid metabolism, as well as metabolic complications concerning the circulatory system.
It is a disorder of homeostasis of energy transformation, caused by excessive supply of energy
contained in food which exceeds the needs of the body, consequently leading to increased
storage of excess kilocalories in the form of adipose tissue. The incidence of obesity in the
world has more than doubled between 1980 and 2014 and currently affects more than 600
million people. This is primarily due to increased food availability, a sedentary lifestyle, as well
as a high-fat and high-carbohydrate diet. These facts are a consequence of socio-economic
changes which took place in recent decades.
One of the factors that can play an important role in the prevention of obesity or reduction
of excessive body weight is the modification of intestinal microbiota composition. Recent
studies have shown that a diverse, properly functioning microbiota secures the adequate use
of energy supplied with food and suitable storage in the body. Probiotic bacteria can contribute
to weight loss in two ways. First of all, microbiota of people characterized by the correct
quantitative and qualitative composition is much more energy-efficient and contributes to
the increased excretion of undigested food residues as compared to the microbiome of people
diagnosed with intestinal dysbiosis. Weight reduction due to taking probiotics may also be
related to its effect on the regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in the organism.
This article reviews the current clinical studies on the potential relationship between intestinal
microbiota and changes in anthropometric parameters concerning people with excessive
body weight.
EUROPEAN UNION HEALTH SYSTEMS AND RESPONSES TO THE ECONOMIC CRISIS
Authors: Selimović Jasmina , Pijalović Velma , Mioković Tea
Published: October 2018

There is no doubt that the overall health of the population is the area of a special social concern of a state, hence, this concern is most often expressed through complex systems of healthcare insurance. Having in mind the fundamental social significance of the healthcare system, debates pertaining to its functioning and efficiency have been ubiquitously present all around the globe. The importance of scientific and practical research in the healthcare area are becoming particularly important in the unfavorable economic conditions as have been present in the most of the World’s countries during and after the 2007 economic crisis. Considering the severity of the crisis, many of the countries have been facing the need for a revision of their health systems in order to assure sustainability of their healthcare in newly arisen, adverse and uncertain financial reality. Additionally, although the healthcare systems can be grouped and attributed to a certain model, we must not neglect the fact that healthcare systems are different from state to state and that they are under a strong influence of history, tradition, political system, economy and national values of every state. Because of this, it has not been possible to offer a single set of universally efficient measures for tackling the crisis’ repercussions on healthcare systems. In this paper we analyze the responses implemented by European Union countries in the light of the most recent economic crisis, deemed unprecedented in the Union since its establishment.
Tělovýchovné spolky a turnerské hnutí jako nástroje sudetoněmecké iredenty: Podíl sudetoněmeckých tělovýchovných organizací na rozbití československého státu
Authors: Štollová Sandra
Published: October 2018

The Turner movement, founded in the beginning of the 19th century by Friedrich L. Jahn, played an important role in organizing leisure time activities of the Sudeten German population during the first half of the 20th century. After splitting from the Austrian Turners, the Sudeten German Turners took over not only the methodology of practice, but also incorporated some of their ideological standpoints. At the beginning, Sudeten German Turner clubs considered themselves apolitical; the main goal of the Sudeten German Turners was physical and moral education of youth. Notwithstanding this original purpose, over time they became a political tool for Sudeten German political representation and executors of various forms of sedition towards the Czechoslovakia. Not even strong ideological contradictions within the Turner movement stopped it from becoming isolated from other Czechoslovak sport organizations and from disseminating pan-German goals and ideas in Czechoslovakia. The Turners provided Sudeten German youth not only with physical education; the organization became an influential tool of socialization as well. This paper reveals the political goals of Sudeten German Turner clubs in the terms of its historical development and provides an overview of the most important Sudeten German Turner club DTV (Deutscher Turnverband). It also clarifies how, the originally physical education-orientated DTV contributed to the breaking-up of Czechoslovakia.
Remédiation et interaction dans le milieu textuel
Authors: Routhier Élisabeth
Published: October 2018

Le texte littéraire est un milieu dans lequel différentes relations
intermédiales peuvent prendre forme. En empruntant la notion de remédiation à Bolter
et Grusin et en la déplaçant des technologies numériques vers le roman, cet article
définit, dans un premier temps, trois procédés par lesquels le texte peut convoquer
des modes appartenant conventionnellement à d’autres formes de médiation. Les points
de rupture que ces procédés impliquent sont ensuite abordés à partir de théories de
la lecture, pour justifier l’hypothèse selon laquelle un roman ayant une forte
dynamique intermédiale peut accroître le degré d’activité du lecteur. Le roman Océan
mer sert de terrain d’analyse pour expliciter le dynamisme des interactions qui
caractérisent une telle production intermédiale.
Heidegger et les critiques de la technique
Authors: Flipo Fabrice
Published: October 2018

Cet article a pour ambition de contribuer à dénouer les liens complexes qui unissent
et séparent tout à la fois les critiques de la technique (Anders, Ellul, Illich,
Charbonneau, Gras, Paquot etc.) et la philosophie de Heidegger, les deux ayant souvent été
accusés de collusion avec le nazisme. Par la même occasion sont données quelques clés pour
comprendre les débats autour de l’écologie politique. Le passage de l’un à l’autre se fait
principalement au travers de Sartre, qui a aussi inspiré Gorz, de Whitehead (souvent cité
par les critiques de la technique) et de Bloch, dont l’interprétation du vers de Hölderlin,
qui clôt la Conférence sur la Technique, est fort différente de celle de Heidegger.
Controlling Words
Authors: Schiffrin André , Lingeswaran Amudha
Published: October 2018

In June 2005, André Schiffrin gave a lecture at the Paris Sorbonne University, during
the Seminary of Sens Public run by Gérard Wormser and Paul Zawadski. Author and publisher,
André Schiffrin describes the present tendency to concentration in the press, and to
creation of monopolies, as well in the United States as in Europe. On the same topic, he
published two books : {L’édition sans éditeur} (La Fabrique, 2001) and {Le contrôle de la
parole} (La Fabrique, 2005).
Rimediazione e interazione nell'ambiente testuale
Authors: Routhier Élisabeth , Cavallari Peppe
Published: October 2018

Le texte littéraire est un milieu dans lequel différentes relations intermédiales peuvent prendre forme. En empruntant la notion de remédiation à Bolter et Grusin et en la déplaçant des technologies numériques vers le roman, cet article définit, dans un premier temps, trois procédés par lesquels le texte peut convoquer des modes appartenant conventionnellement à d’autres formes de médiation. Les points de rupture que ces procédés impliquent sont ensuite abordés à partir de théories de la lecture, pour justifier l’hypothèse selon laquelle un roman ayant une forte dynamique intermédiale peut accroître le degré d’activité du lecteur. Le roman Océan mer sert de terrain d’analyse pour expliciter le dynamisme des interactions qui caractérisent une telle production intermédiale.
De l’objectivation à l’ouverture
Authors: Lapierre Christopher
Published: October 2018

Cette étude vise à montrer qu’à la différence de Sartre, Merleau-Ponty et Grimaldi pensent le caractère médiatisant de l’être compris comme désir et théorisent un décentrement radical de la subjectivité qui culmine pour l’un dans une pensée de l’intercorporéité, pour l’autre dans une éthique du don de soi. L’un et l’autre enracinent ainsi le niveau dissociant de la représentation, dont L’être et le néant se fait l’écho, dans une unité ontologique plus radicale.
Le corps, aucune identité. Entretien avec Marina Abramovic
Authors: Abramovic Marina
Published: October 2018

Marina Abramovic est une battante. Née à Belgrade en 1946, elle a longtemps vécu en Hollande et en Allemagne et vit maintenant à New York. Elle se rend souvent en Italie et, dès qu'elle le peut, en Orient ou dans des lieux où la nature régénère, là où se trouvent les volcans, les cascades, les, forêts.

Elle connaît le monde et le raconte avec son corps. Elle explore les limites de la résistance physique et les différents visages de la peur. Pour elle, la performance est l’art de l’ineffable et il n’existe aucune distance avec le public, ni aucune possibilité de fausseté, ni de répétition : elle est là, présente, et l’œuvre opère à un moment précis et ne peut se répéter. Avec le temps, elle est passée du défi des limites du corps à celui des limites de l’esprit, pour arriver au silence, à l’immobilité, à l’écoute.
Fugue du temps
Authors: Heurtebise Jean-Yves
Published: October 2018

Dans ses livres sur le cinéma, Deleuze le définissait comme un art de la présentation
visuelle indirecte (Image Mouvement) ou directe (Image Temps) du temps (Deleuze 1983, 1985).
Alors que les écrits de Tarkovski sont une référence constante, Deleuze ne consacre pourtant
pas d’étude spécifique sur les formes du temps dans le cinéma de Tarkovski. Pour pallier à
cet oubli, la manière dont le Temps est mis en image dans Le Miroir sera analysée à la
lumière de la manière dont le Temps est pensé par Tarkovski au niveau biographique,
historique, et mystique. Nous verrons comment, dans son film Le Miroir, Tarkovski établit
tout un circuit entre les souvenirs personnels, les images d’archives, les images du rêve et
les symboles de l’inconscient afin de donner à voir/entendre une nouvelle forme/fugue du
Temps.
Selective increases in inter-individual variability in response to environmental enrichment in female mice
Authors: Körholz Julia C , Zocher Sara , Grzyb Anna N , Morisse Benjamin , Poetzsch Alexandra , Ehret Fanny , Schmied Christopher , Kempermann Gerd
Published: October 2018

One manifestation of individualization is a progressively differential response of individuals to the non-shared components of the same environment. Individualization has practical implications in the clinical setting, where subtle differences between patients are often decisive for the success of an intervention, yet there has been no suitable animal model to study its underlying biological mechanisms. Here we show that enriched environment (ENR) can serve as a model of brain individualization. We kept 40 isogenic female C57BL/6JRj mice for 3 months in ENR and compared these mice to an equally sized group of standard-housed control animals, looking at the effects on a wide range of phenotypes in terms of both means and variances. Although ENR influenced multiple parameters and restructured correlation patterns between them, it only increased differences among individuals in traits related to brain and behavior (adult hippocampal neurogenesis, motor cortex thickness, open field and object exploration), in agreement with the hypothesis of a specific activity-dependent development of brain individuality.
Implementation of an osteopathic manipulative medicine clinic at an allopathic teaching hospital: a research-based experience
Authors: Przekop PR , Tulgan H , Przekop A , DeMarco WJ , Campbell N , Kisiel S
Published: October 2018

Mastery of osteopathic palpatory skills and the skilled delivery of osteopathic manipulative treatment is a life-long venture that demands from practitioners increasingly sophisticated manual skills. Specific receptors and neural networks within the brain allow for the gradual development of refined manual skills that parallel responsive alterations and refinements that develop with repeated experience. During clinical training, most graduates of colleges of osteopathic medicine are not given opportunities to hone their palpatory skills. This is unfortunate because there is an increasing public demand for the nonpharmacologic treatment modalities osteopathic physicians could supply. At Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Mass, a major teaching affiliate of the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, the authors assembled a team of osteopathic and allopathic physicians to found an osteopathic manipulative medicine clinic. In this article, the authors share their experience in the creation of this research-based osteopathic medical clinic.
Inhibitory effect of microalgae and cyanobacteria extracts on influenza virus replication and neuraminidase activity
Authors: Silva Thauane , S. Salomon Paulo , Hamerski Lidilhone , Walter Juline , B. Menezes Rafael , Siqueira José Edson , Santos Aline , Santos Jéssica Aparecida Morais , Ferme Natália , Guimarães Thaise , O. Fistarol Giovana , I. Hargreaves Paulo , Thompson Cristiane , Thompson Fabiano , Souza Thiago Moreno , Siqueira Marilda , Miranda Milene
Published: October 2018

Background

The influenza virus can cause seasonal infections with mild to severe symptoms, circulating worldwide, and it can affect people in any age group. Therefore, this infection is a serious public health problem that causes severe illness and death in high-risk populations. Every year, 0.5% of the world’s population is infected by this pathogen. This percentage can increase up to ten times during pandemics. Influenza vaccination is the most effective way to prevent disease. In addition, anti-influenza drugs are essential for prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. The oseltamivir (OST, a neuraminidase inhibitor) is the primary antiviral used in clinics during outbreaks. However, OST resistant viruses may emerge naturally or due to antiviral pressure, with a prevalence of 1–2% worldwide. Thus, the search for new anti-influenza drugs is extremely important. Currently, several groups have been developing studies describing the biotechnological potential of microalgae and cyanobacteria, including antiviral activity of their extracts. In Brazil, this potential is poorly known and explored.

Methods

With the aim of increasing the knowledge on this topic, 38 extracts from microalgae and cyanobacteria isolated from marine and freshwater biomes in Brazil were tested against: cellular toxicity; OST-sensitive and resistant influenza replications; and neuraminidase activity.

Results

For this purpose, Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK)-infected cells were treated with 200 μg/mL of each extract. A total of 17 extracts (45%) inhibited influenza A replication, with seven of them resulting in more than 80% inhibition. Moreover, functional assays performed with viral neuraminidase revealed two extracts (from Leptolyngbya sp. and Chlorellaceae) with IC50 mean < 210 μg/mL for influenza A and B, and also OST-sensitive and resistant strains. Furthermore, MDCK cells exposed to 1 mg/mL of all the extracts showed viability higher than 80%.

Discussion

Our results suggest that extracts of microalgae and cyanobacteria have promising anti-influenza properties. Further chemical investigation should be conducted to isolate the active compounds for the development of new anti-influenza drugs. The data generated contribute to the knowledge of the biotechnological potential of Brazilian biomes that are still little explored for this purpose.
Spatial analyses of threats to ecosystem service hotspots in Greater Durban, South Africa
Authors: Davids Rashieda , Rouget Mathieu , Boon Richard , Roberts Debra
Published: October 2018

Background

Population growth at all scales and rapid rates of urbanization, particularly in the global South, are placing increasing pressure on ecosystems and their ability to provide services essential for human well-being. The spatial consideration of threats to ecosystem services related to changes in land use is necessary in order to avoid undue impacts on society due to the loss or reduced supply of ecosystem services. This study assesses the potential threats of land use change from strategic and local development proposals to ecosystem services in the city of Durban.

Methods

We analysed the spatial relationship between five categories of ecosystem service hotspots (carbon storage, water yield, sediment retention, nutrient retention and flood attenuation) and urban land use change related to selected strategic planning proposals, development proposals and sand-mining applications in Durban, South Africa (eThekwini Municipality) with a view to determining the consequences for progress towards a more sustainable development path in the city. We identified the potential levels of threat related to habitat destruction or transformation for the five categories of ecosystem services and a subset of 13 ecosystem service hotspots, using GIS spatial analysis tools.

Results

The results show that on average, should Durban’s strategic development plans be realised, approximately 42% loss of ecosystem service hotspots is expected in the two municipal town-planning regions assessed. With respect to development applications between 2009 and 2012, approximately 36% of all environmental impact assessments and 84% of sand mining applications occurred within ecosystem service hotspots within Durban.

Discussion

The findings highlight the tension between short-term development pressures and longer-term sustainability goals and confirm that current planning and development proposals pose a threat to ecosystems and their ability to deliver services that support human well-being in Durban. We suggest practical solutions to include ecosystem services into local government decision-making.
Three, two, one! Revision of the long-bodied sphaerodorids (Sphaerodoridae, Annelida) and synonymization ofEphesiella,EphesiopsisandSphaerodorum
Authors: Capa María , Bakken Torkild , Meißner Karin , Nygren Arne
Published: October 2018

Background

Long-bodied sphaerodorids (Annelida, Sphaerodoridae) is the common name for members of the three closely and morphologically homogenous currently accepted genera of benthic marine bristle worms:Ephesiella,EphesiopsisandSphaerodorum. Members of this group share the presence of two dorsal and longitudinal rows of macrotubercles with terminal papillae, and two longitudinal rows of microtubercles, features that are unique among sphaerodorids. Genera are distinguished by the chaetae morphology. Members ofEphesiellaare characterised by having compound chaetae (except, sometimes, simple chaetae in the first chaetigers),Sphaerodorumbear only simple chaetae, andEphesiopsishave both compound and simple chaetae in all parapodia.

Methods

Mitochondrial (partial COI and 16S rDNA) and nuclear (partial 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA) sequence data of long-bodied sphaerodorids with compound and simple chaetae, and an outgroup of additional seven sphaerodorid species were analysed separately and in combination using Bayesian inference (BA), and Maximum Likelihood (ML) methods. Long-bodied sphaerodorids from around the world (including type specimens) were examined under a range of optical equipment in order to evaluate putative generic and specific diagnostic features, in addition to intraspecific variability.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences of specimens identified asEphesiellaandSphaerodorum,based on chaeta morphology, were performed.SphaerodorumandEphesiellawere recovered as paraphyletic and nested within each other. Revision of current nominal species diagnostic features are performed and discussed.

Discussion

Results contradict current generic definitions. Recovery of paraphyletic compound and simple chaetae clades urge the synonymization of these two genera of long-bodied sphaerodorids. Morphological data also suggest the synonymization ofEphesiopsis.
Longitudinal relations between beliefs supporting aggression and externalizing outcomes: Indirect effects of anger dysregulation and callous‐unemotional traits
Authors: Hitti Stephanie A. , Sullivan Terri N. , McDonald Shelby E. , Farrell Albert D.
Published: October 2018

Aggression is prevalent in early‐ to mid‐adolescence and is associated with physical health and psychosocial adjustment difficulties. This underscores the need to identify risk processes that lead to externalizing outcomes. This study examined the extent to which the effects of three dimensions of beliefs supporting aggression on physical aggression and externalizing behavior are mediated by anger dysregulation and callous‐unemotional (CU) traits. Three waves of data were collected from a primarily African American (77%) sample of 265 middle school students between the ages of 11 and 15 (52% were female). We found evidence supporting mediation such that the effects of beliefs supporting instrumental aggression and beliefs that fighting is sometimes necessary at Wave 1 on student‐reported physical aggression at Wave 3 were mediated by CU traits at Wave 2, and relations between beliefs supporting reactive aggression at Wave 1 and teacher‐report of student frequencies of physical aggression and externalizing behavior at Wave 3 were mediated by anger dysregulation at Wave 2. Our findings demonstrated the importance of distinguishing between dimensions of beliefs supporting aggression, as differential paths emerged between specific beliefs, CU traits and anger dysregulation, and externalizing outcomes. These findings have important clinical implications, as they suggest that specific dimensions of beliefs supporting aggression could be targeted based on whether an individual is at risk for behavior patterns characterizing CU traits or anger dysregulation.
NAATP Quality Assurance Guidebook in process
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2018

The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) is nearing completion of a new resource for the addiction treatment field. Called the Addiction Treatment Provider Quality Assurance Guidebook, the resource will assist treatment programs in their efforts to implement and maintain best practices in the operation of a treatment program.
Characterizing Circulating Tumor Cells Isolated from Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients Using Graphene Oxide Based Microfluidic Assay
Authors: Kim Tae Hyun , Yoon Hyeun Joong , Fouladdel Shamileh , Wang Yang , Kozminsky Molly , Burness Monika L. , Paoletti Costanza , Zhao Lili , Azizi Ebrahim , Wicha Max S. , Nagrath Sunitha
Published: October 2018

The enumeration of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) has shown prognostic importance in patients with breast cancer. However, CTCs are highly heterogeneous with diverse functional properties, which may also be clinically relevant. To provide a comprehensive landscape of the patient's disease, further CTC analysis is required. Here, a highly sensitive and reproducible graphene oxide based CTC assay is utilized to isolate and characterize CTCs from 47 metastatic breast cancer patients. The CTCs are captured with high purity, requiring only a few milliliters of blood and enabling efficient enumeration and subsequent analysis at both the protein and the transcription level. The results show that patient clinical outcomes correlate with the associated CTC profile and clearly demonstrate the potential use of the assay in the clinical setting. Collectively, these findings suggest that beyond simple enumeration, CTC characterization may provide further information that improves the diagnosis of the patients' disease status for proper treatment decisions. Moreover, this thorough validation study will facilitate the translation of the CTC assay into future clinical applications to broaden the utility of liquid biopsy.
Biomimetic Artificial Nacre: Boron Nitride Nanosheets/Gelatin Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Yoo Sung Chan , Park Yoon Kyung , Park Changsik , Ryu Hojin , Hong Soon Hyung
Published: October 2018

A bioinspired boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS)/gelatin nanocomposite consisting of hierarchically aligned layered BNNSs bonded with gelatin is fabricated by using electrostatic interactions between the oppositely charged functional groups on gelatin and the BNNSs. To enhance the self‐assembly and interfacial bond strength between these entities, the BNNSs are functionalized using hyperbranched polyglycerol. The 2D alignment of the BNNSs can be controlled by increasing the amount of BNNSs, or by a functionalization process, both of which result in transformation of the nanoscale structure from a randomly oriented to a brick‐and‐mortar structure. The mechanical properties of the resulting nanocomposite material, including the strength and modulus, are controlled by changing the composition of BNNSs and gelatin in the nanocomposite and by modifying the degree of alignment of the BNNSs in the material. This tuning of the mechanical properties yields a material whose performance resembles that of human cortical bone. In vitro cell viability experiments on the BNNSs/gelatin nanocomposite reveal that this artificial nacre supports adhesion, viability, and proliferation of adipose‐derived stem cells, all of which are essential for biomedical applications. Mechanical and biological testing of the material suggests applications of artificial nacre in biomedical fields and for tissue regeneration.
Functionalization of Titanates–Silk Nanocomposites via Cation Exchange for Optical Applications
Authors: Colusso Elena , Vitiello Diana , Perotto Giovanni , Valotto Gabrio , Cattaruzza Elti , Martucci Alessandro
Published: October 2018

A simple and efficient method is developed to introduce plasmonic and luminescence functionalities in titanate nanosheets (TNSs)–silk nanocomposites by direct cation‐exchange process. First, the cation exchange properties such as exchange kinetic and capacity are studied to verify the behavior of the material and determine the best condition of exchange. In particular, the effect of the valence on the kinetic is investigated through elemental analysis, focusing on three target cations (Ag+, Cu2+, and Eu3+) in water. It is demonstrated that the cation exchange capability of the composite is strictly dependent of the amount of TNSs. By acting on the time of ion exchange or by changing the TNSs concentration in the silk fibroin matrix it is possible to tune the metal ions doping. The process is applicable both on flexible free‐standing membranes and thin films deposited on an appropriate substrate. By exposing the material to UV radiation, it is possible to synthesize in situ metallic nanoparticles, exhibiting a characteristic plasmonic peak in the visible spectrum. Furthermore, it is verified that the europium ions preserve their photoluminescence properties when introduced in the nanocomposite, showing a characteristic red emission under UV light.
Elastic Electroadhesion with Rapid Release by Integrated Resonant Vibration
Authors: Gao Xing , Cao Chongjing , Guo Jianglong , Conn Andrew
Published: October 2018

Soft robotic grippers have gained a growing interest due to their inherent compliance which passively adapts to a variety of object shapes and electroadhesion (EA) has attracted particular attention due to its versatile, low impact adhesion. EA shows potential for the precise manipulation of thin and flexible substrates such as plastic films, which is crucial to the advancement of flexible electronics fabrication. However, the rapid release of substrates is a challenge with EA due to the residual charge and relatively slow dielectric natural relaxation time that exists when the applied voltage switched off. Here, a novel soft gripping technology that integrates a dielectric elastomer actuator with an EA into a soft, monolithic structure to achieve rapid de‐adhesion is presented. This inherently compliant device exploits resonant excitation to minimize the release period to a range of 100–500 ms, which is an improvement of at least two orders of magnitude compared with conventional EA release. The developed end effector demonstrates rapid and robust adhesion/de‐adhesion performance in a lightweight and compact form, with simplified control and low energy consumption and hence has wide application to a variety of robotic manipulation tasks.
Efficient Welding of Silver Nanowires embedded in a Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Film for Robust Wearable Electronics
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Wang Yuan , Gui Jinzheng , Wang Xuening , Li Rui , Liu Wei , Sun Chengliang , Zhao Xingzhong , Guo Shishang
Published: October 2018

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) are explored as promising transparent electrodes for flexible plastic devices. However, high NW–NW contact resistance and poor adhesion on bare substrates currently preclude AgNWs from use in transparent wearable applications. Here, a highly efficient large‐scale strategy of partially burying AgNWs in the surface of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) transparent substrates is reported to greatly improve the conductivity and adhesion of the nanowires. The conductivity of AgNWs is doubled when forming the PVDF/AgNWs electrodes, which requires only 10 min and did not need any post‐treatment. Due to the high flexibility and abradability of PVDF film, the conductive surface of PVDF/AgNWs electrodes with junctions and parts of the AgNWs embedded in the PVDF film is robust during multiple deformations, adhesion test, and rubbing test. The chemical resistance is also improved because of the chemical stability of PVDF substrate and the conductive structure of the PVDF/AgNWs electrode. It is further shown that the transparent PVDF/AgNWs electrode is robust enough for wearable applications, such as wearable microcircuits, e‐skins, and biomechanical energy harvesters. This work is believed to be a potential step toward applications of PVDF/AgNWs electrode in transparent wearable electronics.
Enhancing Antitumor Efficacy by Simultaneous ATP‐Responsive Chemodrug Release and Cancer Cell Sensitization Based on a Smart Nanoagent
Authors: Song Xiao‐Rong , Li Shi‐Hua , Guo Hanhan , You Wenwu , Tu Datao , Li Juan , Lu Chun‐Hua , Yang Huang‐Hao , Chen Xueyuan
Published: October 2018

The exploitation of smart nanoagents based drug delivery systems (DDSs) has proven to be a promising strategy for fighting cancers. Hitherto, such nanoagents still face challenges associated with their complicated synthesis, insufficient drug release in tumors, and low cancer cell chemosensitivity. Here, the engineering of an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐activatable nanoagent is demonstrated based on self‐assembled quantum dots‐phenolic nanoclusters to circumvent such challenges. The smart nanoagent constructed through a one‐step assembly not only has high drug loading and low cytotoxicity to normal cells, but also enables ATP‐activated disassembly and controlled drug delivery in cancer cells. Particularly, the nanoagent can induce cell ATP depletion and increase cell chemosensitivity for significantly enhanced cancer chemotherapy. Systematic in vitro and in vivo studies further reveal the capabilities of the nanoagent for intracellular ATP imaging, high tumor accumulation, and eventual body clearance. As a result, the presented multifunctional smart nanoagent shows enhanced antitumor efficacy by simultaneous ATP‐responsive chemodrug release and cancer cell sensitization. These findings offer new insights toward the design of smart nanoagents for improved cancer therapeutics.
Synergistic Effect of CuGeO3/Graphene Composites for Efficient Oxygen–Electrode Electrocatalysts in Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Lee Gwang‐Hee , Sung Myung‐Chang , Kim Jae‐Chan , Song Hee Jo , Kim Dong‐Wan
Published: October 2018

Hybridized 1D/2D CuGeO3/graphene composites are applied as the oxygen–electrode electrocatalysts for Li–O2 batteries. The CuGeO3/graphene composites are synthesized by the crystallographic alignment of CuGeO3 nanowires on graphene, rendering strong heteroepitaxial coupling between the 1D oxide nanostructures and the 2D electrically conducting graphene. The inherited excellent electrocatalytic activity of the CuGeO3/graphene composites leads to lower overpotentials and more stable cycling performance of Li–O2 cells than CuGeO3 nanowires and graphene. The relationships between CuGeO3 nanowires and graphene are studied for the oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution activity in both aqueous and nonaqueous solutions, and the electrocatalytic activity is improved by manipulating the redox pair and sp3/sp2 via surface chemical modification.
Meningeal inflammation and cortical demyelination in acute multiple sclerosis
Authors: Bevan Ryan J. , Evans Rhian , Griffiths Lauren , Watkins Lewis M. , Rees Mark I. , Magliozzi Roberta , Allen Ingrid , McDonnell Gavin , Kee Rachel , Naughton Michelle , Fitzgerald Denise C. , Reynolds Richard , Neal James W. , Howell Owain W.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Cortical gray matter (GM) pathology, involving demyelination and neurodegeneration, associated with meningeal inflammation, could be important in determining disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, we need to know more about how cortical demyelination, neurodegeneration, and meningeal inflammation contribute to pathology at early stages of MS to better predict long‐term outcome.

Methods

Tissue blocks from short disease duration MS (n = 12, median disease duration = 2 years), progressive MS (n = 21, disease duration = 25 years), non‐diseased controls (n = 11), and other neurological inflammatory disease controls (n = 6) were quantitatively analyzed by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridization.

Results

Cortical GM demyelination was extensive in some cases of acute MS (range = 1–48% of total cortical GM), and subpial lesions were the most common type (62%). The numbers of activated (CD68+) microglia/macrophages were increased in cases with subpial lesions, and the density of neurons was significantly reduced in acute MS normal appearing and lesion GM, compared to controls (p < 0.005). Significant meningeal inflammation and lymphoid‐like structures were seen in 4 of 12 acute MS cases. The extent of meningeal inflammation correlated with microglial/macrophage activation (p < 0.05), but not the area of cortical demyelination, reflecting the finding that lymphoid‐like structures were seen adjacent to GM lesions as well as areas of partially demyelinated/remyelinated, cortical GM.

Interpretation

Our findings demonstrate that cortical demyelination, neuronal loss, and meningeal inflammation are notable pathological hallmarks of acute MS and support the need to identify early biomarkers of this pathology to better predict outcome. Ann Neurol 2018;84:829–842
Biomass‐Derived Graphene‐like Carbon: Efficient Metal‐Free Carbocatalysts for Epoxidation
Authors: Wen Guodong , Gu Qingqing , Liu Yuefeng , Schlögl Robert , Wang Congxin , Tian Zhijian , Su Dang Sheng
Published: October 2018

N‐doped graphene‐like layered carbon (NG) could be synthesized via a metal‐free pyrolysis route from glucose, fructose, and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF), which are cheap and widely available biomass or biomass derivatives. A well‐developed thin‐layer structure with large lateral dimensions could be obtained when 5‐HMF was used as the precursor. More importantly, the 5‐HMF‐derived NG gave superior performance in epoxidation reactions compared with the conventional carbon catalysts and the performance of 5‐HMF derived NG was even similar to that of a cobalt catalyst. Characterizations by TEM and XPS accompanied by EPR analysis revealed that the enhanced catalytic properties for NG arise from its high activation ability for both alkenes and O2, which are attributed to the graphitic layered structure and graphitic N species, respectively.
Naked Mole‐Rats: Blind, Naked, and Feeling No Pain
Authors: Browe Brigitte M. , Vice Emily N. , Park Thomas J.
Published: October 2018

Around the world and across taxa, subterranean mammals show remarkable convergent evolution in morphology (e.g., reduced external ears, small eyes, shortened limbs and tails). This is true of sensory systems as well (e.g., loss of object vision and high frequency hearing). The naked mole‐rat (Heterocephalus glaber) displays these typical subterranean features, but also has unusual characteristics even among subterranean mammals. Naked mole‐rats are cold‐blooded, completely furless, very long‐lived (> 30 years), and eusocial (like termites). They also live in large colonies, which is very unusual for subterraneans. Their cortical organization has reduced area for visual processing, utilizing 30% more cortex for tactile processing. They are extremely tolerant to oxygen deprivation, and can recover from 18 min of anoxia. Their pain pathway is reduced and they feel no pain from acidosis. They are the only rodent tested to date whose pheromone‐detecting vomeronasal organ shows no postnatal growth. These features may be a result of this species' “extreme subterranean lifestyle” that combines living underground and living in large colonies. Many respiring animals cramped together in unventilated burrows elevates CO2 levels, high enough to cause acidosis pain, and depletes O2 concentrations low enough to kill other mammals. The naked mole‐rat may be an extreme model of adaptation to subterranean life and provides insights into the complex interplay of evolutionary adaptations to the constraints of subterranean living. Anat Rec, 2018. © 2018 American Association for Anatomy.
Effects of Estrogen Treatment on Aging in the Rat Epididymis
Authors: Davis Kathryn , Pearl Christopher A.
Published: October 2018

Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated that estrogen signaling in the testis contributes to maintaining spermatogenesis in adult rats, and that estrogen treatment attenuated the age‐associated decline in sperm production. The purpose of this study was to determine if epididymal function is also altered with age, and what effects estrogen treatment may have on the epididymis during aging. We compared untreated rats at 3 and 15 months of age to 18‐month‐old vehicle‐treated and estrogen treated rats. In all four groups, tubule and lumen diameter of the cauda was significantly larger than more proximal regions of the epididymis. In the 3‐, 15‐, and 18‐month‐old treated animals, the epithelial cell height of the cauda was significantly shorter than that of more proximal regions. The caput cell height was shorter at 18 months compared to 3 months but this was not seen in estrogen treated animals. Thus, estrogen appears able to prevent some age related changes in epididymal morphology. Sperm transit time through the distal cauda was significantly delayed with aging. Estrogen treatment prevented this delay, indicating that sperm transit through the epididymis is an estrogen regulated function. Differences in estradiol and testosterone concentrations were observed between 3‐ and 15‐month‐old animals, but no further differences were noted between treated or untreated animals at 18 months. Interestingly, expression of androgen receptor and estrogen receptor alpha were similar between ages and treatments. Collectively, these results suggest epididymal morphology and function are affected by aging and estrogen treatment. Anat Rec, 302:1447–1457, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flavonoids as putative modulators of Δ4‐, Δ5‐, and Δ6‐desaturases: Studies in cultured hepatocytes, myocytes, and adipocytes
Authors: Kühn Gianna , Pallauf Kathrin , Schulz Carsten , Rimbach Gerald
Published: October 2018

This study was conducted to screen flavonoids for affecting expression of desaturases involved in omega‐3 fatty acid synthesis and ceramide (CER) metabolism. To this end, cultured HepG2 hepatocytes, C2C12 myocytes, and 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with nontoxic concentrations of 12 selected flavonoids and expression of Δ4‐, Δ5‐, and Δ6‐desaturases (DEGS1, FADS1, and FADS2, respectively) was determined. The flavonoids tested were more cytotoxic to HepG2 and 3T3‐L1 than to C2C12 cells. In HepG2 cells, FADS1 was induced by quercetin and FADS2 expression was increased by daidzein, genistein, and pratensein treatment. DEGS1 was increased by apigenin, luteolin, orobol, and quercetin administration. In differentiated C2C12 cells, substances had no inducing effect or even lowered target gene expression. Pratensein induced both FADS1 and FADS2 in differentiated 3T3‐L1 cells and DEGS1 was increased by treatment with apigenin, genistein, luteolin, orobol, and quercetin. In conclusion, pratensein may be an interesting test compound for further studies in vitro and in vivo on omega‐3 synthesis since it induces its rate‐limiting enzyme FADS2. Apigenin, luteolin, orobol, and quercetin induced DEGS1 and thereby possibly synthesis of proapoptotic CER in malignant HepG2 cells and 3T3‐L1. In contrast, in benign C2C12 cells, they did not elevate mRNA steady state levels of DEGS1. That may partly explain the higher resistance of C2C12 cells against flavonoids compared to the other cell lines. By affecting tumor cells and nontumor cells differently, these flavonoids may be promising substances for further research regarding anticancer properties. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(5):485–495, 2018
Highly sensitive and rapid determination of tacrolimus in peripheral blood mononuclear cells by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Bahmany Soma , de Wit Lucia E.A. , Hesselink Dennis A. , van Gelder Teun , Shuker Nauras M. , Baan Carla , van der Nagel Bart C.H. , Koch Birgit C.P. , de Winter Brenda C.M.
Published: October 2018

After solid organ transplantation, tacrolimus is given to prevent rejection. Therapeutic drug monitoring is used to reach target concentrations of tacrolimus in whole blood. Because the site of action of tacrolimus is the lymphocyte, and tacrolimus binds ~80% to erythrocytes, the intracellular tacrolimus concentration in lymphocytes is possibly more relevant. For this purpose, we aimed to develop, improve and validate a UPLC–MS/MS method to measure tacrolimus concentrations in isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). PBMCs were isolated using a Ficoll separation technique, followed by a washing step using red blood cell lysis. A cell suspension of 50 μL containing 1 million PBMCs was used in combination with MagSiMUS‐TDMPREP. To each sample we added 30 μL lysis buffer, 20 μL reconstitution buffer containing 13C2H4‐tacrolimus as internal standard, 40 μL MagSiMUS‐TDMPREP Type I Particle Mix and 175 μL Organic Precipitation Reagent VI for methanol‐based protein precipitation. A 10 μL aliquot of the supernatant was injected into the UPLC–MS/MS system. The method was validated, resulting in high sensitivity and specificity. The method was linear (r2 = 0.997) over the range 5.0–1250 pg/1 × 106 PBMCs. The inaccuracy was <5% and the imprecision was <15%. The washing steps following Ficoll isolation could be performed at either room temperature or on ice, with no effect of the temperature on the results. A method for the analysis of tacrolimus concentrations in PBMCs was developed and successfully validated. Further research will be performed to investigate the correlation between concentrations in PBMCs and clinical outcome.
Inter‐firm R&D collaborations and green innovation value: The role of family firms' involvement and the moderating effects of proximity dimensions
Authors: Ardito Lorenzo , Messeni Petruzzelli Antonio , Pascucci Federica , Peruffo Enzo
Published: October 2018

The present paper investigates the relationship between the involvement of family firms in R&D collaborations aimed at developing green solutions and the value of resulting innovations. To dig into this relationship, the moderating effects of two proximity dimensions (i.e., geographical distance and technological relatedness) are also assessed. Analyses are based on a sample of 156 joint patents classified into the “Alternative energy production” field, as defined by the International Patent Classification Green Inventory and successfully filed at the United States Patent and Trademark Office in the period 1997–2010 by publicly listed companies. According to our conjectures, results reveal a positive relationship between the involvement of family firms and green innovation value. Moreover, our findings show that this relationship is hindered when partners are geographically distant or technologically proximate. Eventually, we contribute to the literature on green innovation by unveiling under which conditions inter‐firm R&D collaborations lead to more valuable innovations.
An association with hypopituitarism and 9q subtelomere deletion syndrome
Authors: Higuchi Shinji , Takagi Masaki , Takeda Ryojun , Yoshihashi Hiroshi , Narumi Satoshi , Hasegawa Tomonobu
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Hypopituitarism could have been overlooked so far in the patients with 9q subtelomere deletion syndrome (9qSTDS); thus, further investigations or reevaluation of clinical information, especially hormonal evaluations, are warranted to determine whether hypopituitarism is a rare or relatively common presentation in patients with 9qSTDS.
Eosinophilic lung disease with plastic bronchitis and bronchiectasis in an adolescent male
Authors: Hussain Habiba , Kherallah Nizar
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Any case of unresolving chronic pneumonia with expectoration of thick mucoid plugs should have high index of suspicion for plastic/cast bronchitis, requiring early flexible bronchoscopy with lavage and histopathologic evaluation. Associated presence of idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia is unusual and could be considered as a cause for atypical plastic bronchitis complicated by bronchiectasis.
An unusual presentation of a patient with severe hypogammaglobulinemia
Authors: Hoffman Thijs W. , van Kessel Diana A. , van Tol Maarten J. D. , Vidarsson Gestur , Jol‐van der Zijde Els C. , Rijkers Ger T. , van Velzen‐Blad Heleen
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

We present a patient who was diagnosed with severe hypogammaglobulinemia after her newborn child presented with two episodes of meningitis. The patient had no history or symptoms suggestive of immunodeficiency. Thus far, a cause for the immunodeficiency has not been found, even after extensive immunological evaluation.