bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploratory investigation of region level risk factors of Ebola virus disease in West Africa
Authors: Levy Benjamin , Odoi Agricola
Published: August 2018

Background. Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a highly infectious disease that has produced over 25,000 cases in the past 50 years. While many past outbreaks resulted in relatively few cases, the 2014 outbreak in West Africa was the most deadly occurrence of EVD to date, producing over 15,000 confirmed cases.

Objective. In this study, we investigated population level predictors of EVD risk at the regional level in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.

Methods. Spatial and descriptive analyses were conducted to assess distribution of EVD cases. Choropleth maps showing the spatial distribution of EVD risk across the study area were generated in ArcGIS. Poisson and negative binomial models were then used to investigate population and regional predictors of EVD risk.

Results. Results indicated that the risk of EVD was significantly lower in areas with higher proportions of: (a) the population living in urban areas, (b) households with a low quality or no toilets, and (c) married men working in blue collar jobs. However, risk of EVD was significantly higher in areas with high mean years of education.

Conclusions. The identified significant predictors of high risk were associated with areas with higher levels of urbanization. This may be due to higher population densities in the more urban centers and hence higher potential of infectious contact. However, there is need to better understand the role of urbanization and individual contact structure in an Ebola outbreak. We discuss shortcomings in available data and emphasize the need to consider spatial scale in future data collection and epidemiological studies.
XIII SIMPÓSIO DE INICIAÇÃO CIENTÍFICA DA FACULDADE DE MEDICINA DO ABC
Authors: FMABC Comitê de Iniciação Científica
Published: August 2018

Não se aplica
Estresse ocupacional e cultura de segurança: tendências para contribuição e construção do conhecimento em enfermagem
Authors: Munhoz Oclaris Lopes , Andolhe Rafaela , Schimith Maria Denise , Oliveira Gabriela , Ribeiro Polyana De Lima , Silva Thayná Champe da , Cremonese Luiza
Published: August 2018

O estresse é considerado um dos fatores que mais atinge os profissionais de enfermagem, podendo repercutir na cultura de segurança e desfavorecer a assistência prestada. O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar e caracterizar as tendências das teses e dissertações em enfermagem produzidas no Brasil, acerca da temática do estresse ocupacional da equipe de enfermagem associado à cultura de segurança. Trata-se de um estudo de revisão narrativa. A busca foi realizada no portal de teses e dissertações da CAPES, no mês de maio de 2017, sem recorte temporal. Houve predominância de dissertações, com abordagem quantitativa, no ano de 2015, na região sul. A fragilidade da cultura de segurança foi identificada nos estudos voltados à segurança do paciente. Os resultados apontaram, ainda, fragilidades nas ações desenvolvidas e a necessidade de implantar estratégias que colaborassem para uma melhor assistência em saúde. Ainda, o estresse ocupacional foi reconhecido, por parte dos profissionais como influência negativa no trabalho. Desvendou-se, também, como uma tendência das produções, a predominância de estudos de cultura de segurança em unidades hospitalares fechadas.
Phytochemical composition and in vitro antioxidant activities ofCitrus sinensispeel extracts
Authors: Liew Sok Sian , Ho Wan Yong , Yeap Swee Keong , Sharifudin Shaiful Adzni Bin
Published: August 2018

Background

Citrus sinensispeels are usually discarded as wastes; however, they are rich sources of Vitamin C, fibre, and many nutrients, including phenolics and flavonoids which are also good antioxidant agents. This study aimed to examine phytochemical composition and antioxidant capabilities ofC. sinensispeel extracted conventionally with different methanol/water, ethanol/water, and acetone/water solvents.

Methods

C. sinensispeels were subjected to extraction with 100%, 70% and 50% of methanol, ethanol, and acetone, respectively, as well as hot water extraction. Antioxidant activities of the peel extracts were examined via the 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content of the extracts were measured via the Folin-Ciocalteau method and the aluminium chloride colorimetric method, respectively. Phenolic acid and organic acid composition of the peel extracts were further determined via high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) while flavonoid content was identified via ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC).

Results

DPPH radical scavenging activity ofC. sinensispeel extracts varied from 8.35 to 18.20 mg TE/g, FRAP ranged from 95.00 to 296.61 mmol Fe(II)/g, while ORAC value ranged from 0.31 to 0.92 mol TE/g. Significant level of association between the assays was observed especially between TPC and FRAP (R-square = 0.95,P < 0.0001). TPC of variousC. sinensispeel extracts ranged from 12.08 to 38.24 mg GAE/g, with 70% acetone/water extract (AEC) showing the highest TPC. TFC ranged from 1.90 to 5.51 mg CE/g. Extraction yield ranged from 0.33 to 0.54 g/g DW and tended to increase with increasing water concentration in the solvent. In the phytochemical investigation, five phenolic acids were identified using HPLC, including gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid and ferulic acid. A total of five organic acids including lactic acid, citric acid, L-mallic acid, kojic acid and ascorbic acid were quantified via HPLC. In addition, concentrations of six flavonoids including catechin, epigallocatechin, vitexin, rutin, luteolin and apigenin were determined via UPLC.

Discussion and Conclusion

Phytochemicals including phenolics and flavonoids inC. sinensispeel extracts exhibited good antioxidant properties. Among the extracts, 70% AEC with highest TPC and high TFC content showed greatest antioxidant activity in all three assays. Different phenolic acids, organic acids and flavonoids were also identified from the extracts. This study indicated thatC. sinensispeels contained potential antioxidant compounds which could be exploited as value added products in the food industry.
Academic Preparation towards Improved World Class Maritime Shipboard Performance
Authors: Paraggua Victoria , Magsino Ronald , Diviva Rachelle , Panado Ana Lee M. , Millar Jamila M.
Published: August 2018

Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary in keeping graduates abreast of the trends and demands in maritime in order not to lag behind in a highly competitive environment like the shipping industry. The study evaluated the academic preparation and shipboard training performance of the PMMA cadets as basis for improvement of the program towards customer satisfaction. The descriptive design was utilized to gather and evaluate the perception of the respondents. The trainee-respondents rated the curriculum, faculty competency, and laboratory and equipment as very satisfactory. Evaluator-respondents rated the work competency, ethical standards, and knowledge and skills of the trainees as very satisfactory. Trainees positively regarded the preparation of reports. They also handled tasks and functions stipulated in their training record book though there are some areas where a significant majority did not experience. The latest trends and demands that should be addressed and incorporated in the maritime curriculum are the following: full compliance with security and safety; installation and use of up-to-date and modern navigational equipment; the presence of electronically controlled camless main engine; simpler but durable cargo handling equipment; and garbage management system. The weaknesses and gap revealed that the maritime curriculum and shipboard training need consideration and reflection to maintain the country's status as the prime provider and producer of highly qualified marine officers.
Dual-Instructional Model: Input to Developing and Evaluating Reading Modules in the Philippines
Authors: Baltazar Francis Clare B.
Published: August 2018

Reading is a rudiment of academic and career success. It is a macro skill that holds higher proficiency and higher language skills such as speaking and writing. In recognition of the high significance of reading, this study made an intervention in response to identified reading challenges by constructing reading modules for Grade 9 students that were strengthened by two instructional models identified as ADDIE and CIPP further anchored on thinking skills, comprehension levels, and K to 12 reading competencies utilizing Quantitative Design via Quasi-Experimental Approach. For the development of the reading modules, the ADDIE Model was used to ensure the quality of the content through analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation phases. For the evaluation of the modules as regards viability in improving reading potential, the CIPP model was the final quality measure anchored on context evaluation, input evaluation, process evaluation, and product evaluation. The results showed that inconsistency of the reading achievement of participants urged the necessity of constructing reading modules. Evaluation and comprehension were the thinking skills weak points while critical and interpretative were the comprehension level weak points. The effectiveness of ADDIE Development in the reading modules was justified by the outstanding ratings given by the reading experts and the viability of the reading modules in enhancing maximum reading potential was strengthened by the CIPP Model evaluation. The use of reading modules as supplementary tools in actual reading instruction and utilization of modules for other grade levels underscoring needs-based assessment and IM Models are highly recommended.
Revitalizing Institutional Policy Grounded on Work-Life Balance of Employees in a Catholic Higher Education Institution: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bueno David , Reyes Amelia Cecilia , Aquino Carlota
Published: August 2018

It presupposes that workers must deal with the challenging demands as they confer between spheres of "life" and "work". The study determines the current Work-life Balance (WLB) practices and policies as basis for institutional policy reformulation in a Catholic Higher Education Institution (HEI). The researchers utilized the descriptive cross-sectional design of research to obtain information concerning the analysis of the work-life balance of employees using survey-questionnaire at a given time in an academic year. The participants of the study were school administrators and faculty members in one private higher education institution in the Philippines with full-time status during the Academic Year 2015-2016. The survey- questionnaire for work-life balance (WBL) was modified from "Better Work-life Balance Survey-Employees" of the University of Queensland in 2005. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as Percentage, Weighted Mean, Standard Deviation, and Pearson's Product Coefficient Correlation were used for a more efficient, effective and accurate analysis of data. The work-life balance related activities of employees are sometimes at risk. Work-life related policies on leave arrangements are being viewed by employees in various ways in the organization. Parenting and pregnancy related policies are also evident. Furthermore, various work arrangement related-policies are also enjoyed by the employees. Additional provisions regarding work are also evident. Thus, there is moderate impact work-related activities and policies on the personal life of employees.
Orientation-Workshop on Normative Funding for SUCs/Campuses in Region-IX and Utilization of Income Generating: An Impact Study
Authors: Remoto Jocelyn , Climaco Christopher
Published: August 2018

The purpose of this impact study was to determine the relevant learning experiences of the ZCSPC participants in the Orientation-Workshop on Normative Funding for SUCs/Campuses in Region IX and Utilization of Income Generating and how they implemented the learning experiences, relevant to their duties and responsibilities, in the College. The qualitative research design was utilized. The purposive sampling technique was used since the respondents were the identified ZCSPC participants.  The data were collected using the one-on-one interview between the respondent and the researcher. The findings revealed the following salient concerns affecting the normative funding:  a.) the budget officer did not adopt the Aklan State University model policy on the use of income and opted to follow the ZCSPC's existing policy on the use of income up to the present; b.) the advice to strictly implement the PhilGEPS was adopted by the College and gradually implemented in its procurement system; c.) the workload misconceptions of the faculty members were given attention through the initial workload policy revision made by the VPTAA (2009). The Administration resorted to the hiring of visiting lecturers and the implementation of the biometric system until the faculty members fully understood the workload policy through the CHED-HEMIS guidelines on August 2013.  It is recommended that ZCSPC Administration strictly follow the guidelines set by CMO No. 20, s. 2011;  strictly monitor PhilGEPS postings; and fully implement the vertical articulation.
An Analysis of Pesticide Residue in Vegetables Sold In Zamboanga City, Philippines
Authors: Tahil Maisora
Published: August 2018

Pesticide contaminations on vegetables are widespread and found to be one of the causes of food poisoning in the Philippines.  The study examined the presence and determined the quantity of pesticide present in three (3) samples of vegetables sold at the Zamboanga City Public Market and Bagsakan Center, Sta. Cruz Market, Zamboanga City. Purposive random sampling was used in the selection of the three vegetable samples, which were Cabbage (Brassica oleraceaorvarcapitata Linn.), Lettuces (Lactucasativa Linn.), and Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis). This was analyzed at Cagayan de Oro Bureau of Plant Industry, Pesticide Analytical Laboratory. Gas Chromatography was used in the determination of the presence of pesticide residue. Three trials were conducted for each sample and the average was computed for the final result. A No Detection (ND) results the findings to all the samples, an implication that the vegetables which were sold and bought from the two public markets in Zamboanga City were free from pesticide residues.  It is recommended that other fruits and vegetables may be analyzed on different kinds of pesticides considered to be systemic and non-systemic, and after a heavy rain fall. Similarly, recommended that periodic monitoring for pesticide residue and other hazardous chemicals by the appropriate agency responsible for the health and welfare of the general public.
Paghahambing Sa Wikang Sinama Ng Mga Badjao Sa Wikang Filipino At Ingles Sa Konstekstong Ponolohiya, Morpolohiya At Sintaksis
Authors: Tayong Necita
Published: August 2018

This study is a phonologic, morpological and syntax analysis in the Sinama - Badjao language compared to Filipino and English. This study aims to answer specific questions: What is the structure of phonology of Sinama-Badjao according to the method of articulation and point articulation? What is the structure of the Sinama-Badjao morphology by fiscal, repetition and synthesis? What is the syntax structure of the Sinama-Badjao language according to the terms of identification and transactional rules: simple "simplex, interrelated, conditional clause, adverb, question and relationship/relativization. What is differences and similarities in phonological morphology and Sinama-Badjao syntax in English and Filipino? What curriculum decision can be planned for the understanding of the Sinama-Badjao group? Qualitative methodology of this methodology used in this study with a design analysis of language phenomenology due to the examination of phonemees, English and Filipino morphemes. The study of the Sinama language structure is the focus of the fukos in the context of the cultural environment of this ethnic group. From the findings of this researcher, the following conclusions have been drawn: The Sinama -Badjao language phonology structure is very similar to the structure of the Filipino language. Divided into vowels and consonants. There are five (5) vowels and sixteen consonants in Sinama-Badjao. The structure of the Sinama-Badjao language morphology is likewise similar to the Sinama language similar to the Filipino language developed by the inclusion of free morphemes and independent morphemes.
Degradability of Plastics in Mangrove Soil from Eco-Mangrove Reserve in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro Philippines
Authors: Marquez Jermaine Ritzchelle
Published: August 2018

Mangrove forests are indigenous to tropical as well as subtropical regions worldwide. Mangrove soil is a rich source of plastic-degrading bacteria but no local study has been done to support its potential benefits.  This study was conducted to assess the suitability of an improvised nutrient medium for the isolation of plastic-degrading bacteria from mangrove soil obtained from Silonay Eco-Mangrove Reserve, Calapan City, Philippines. Forty-Two (42) Winogradsky column WC), the first 21 WC contain mineral salt medium and the remaining 21 contain sea salt medium. Plastic samples were observed for 36 days by comparing the initial and final weights. WC with mineral salt medium showed the most changes in the final plastic weight while the seawater medium Winogradsky column showed less plastic weight changes. Laboratory test showed that plastic degrading bacteria that were gram-negative were Citrobacter fruendii, Enterobacter agglomerans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Arizona spp. The study showed that mangrove soil in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro is a rich source of biodegrading bacteria. The use of improvised nutrient medium solves the unavailability of expensive materials and can be used in exploring the potential use of identified bacteria for future work in biotechnology.    Further studies need to be done to investigate other bacterial species aside from identified bacteria that can biodegrade plastics.
On Generalized Solutions of Linear Congruence ax = b (mod n) for Large Modulus n
Authors: Cuarto Polemer M.
Published: August 2018

Number Theory, a branch of Pure Mathematics, is crucial in cryptographic algorithms. Many cryptographic systems depend heavily on some topics of Number Theory. One of these topics is the linear congruence. In cryptography, the concept of linear congruence is used to directly underpin public key cryptosystems during the process of ciphering and deciphering codes. Thus, linear congruence plays a very important role in cryptography. This paper aims to develop an alternative method and generalized solutions for solving linear congruence axb (mod n). This study utilized expository-developmental research method. As a result, the alternative method considered two cases: (1) when (a,n) = 1 and  (2) when (a,n) > 1. The basic idea of the method is to convert the given congruence ax â‰¡ b (mod n) to ax b + kn for some k, reduce modulus n by interchanging a and n, simplify the new congruence and perform the process recursively until obtaining a congruence that is trivial to solve. The advantage of this method over the existing approaches is that it can solve congruence even for large modulus n with much more efficiency. Generalized solution of linear congruence axb (mod n) considering both cases was obtained in this study.
The ATPase VCP/p97 functions as a disaggregase against toxic Huntingtin‐exon1 aggregates
Authors: Ghosh Debasish Kumar , Roy Ajit , Ranjan Akash
Published: August 2018

Intracellular protein aggregation is characterized by accumulation of misfolded proteins. Chaperones, degradation machineries, and quality‐control mechanisms counteract protein aggregation. In this study, we report that the ATPase valosin‐containing protein (VCP/p97) acts as a functional disaggregase that disassembles Huntingtin‐exon1 aggregates in vitro and in HeLa cells. The N‐terminal part of VCP (Cdc48_N domain) interacts with the N‐terminal 17‐amino acid region of Huntingtin‐exon1. We show that VCP has properties of a disaggregase, since it is capable of reducing preformed protein aggregates and displays increased ATPase activity in the presence of protein aggregates. However, VCP shows high divergence/disparity from other disaggregases. Taken together, our studies show the novel function of VCP/p97 as a disaggregase which detangles protein aggregates to probably channelize their degradation.
Resolvin E1, but not resolvins E2 and E3, promotes fMLF‐induced ROS generation in human neutrophils
Authors: Unno Yuka , Sato Yoshinori , Fukuda Hayato , Ishimura Kohei , Ikeda Hiroyuki , Watanabe Mizuki , Tansho‐Nagakawa Shigeru , Ubagai Tsuneyuki , Shuto Satoshi , Ono Yasuo
Published: August 2018

E‐series resolvins are biosynthesized from eicosapentaenoic acid during the resolution phase of acute inflammation and enhance inflammation resolution. However, the role of E‐series resolvins in inflammation resolution is not yet known. Herein, we show that in human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), resolvin E1 (RvE1) selectively enhances reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation induced by N‐formylmethionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine. The RvE1‐mediated enhancement is eliminated by a pan‐antagonist of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) receptors, LY255283, or an NADPH oxidase inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium. Thus, RvE1 enhances NADPH oxidase‐mediated ROS generation via LTB4 receptors. Unlike RvE1, resolvins E2 and E3 do not show such activation of PMNs. Our findings suggest that RvE1 contributes to regulation of ROS generation, in accordance with the inflammatory state of the host.
Recent Progress in Applications of the Cold Sintering Process for Ceramic–Polymer Composites
Authors: Guo Jing , Zhao Xuetong , Herisson De Beauvoir Thomas , Seo Joo‐Hwan , Berbano Seth S. , Baker Amanda L. , Azina Clio , Randall Clive A.
Published: August 2018

Ceramic–polymer composites are of interest for designing enhanced and unique properties. However, the processing temperature windows of sintering ceramics are much higher than that of compaction, extrusion, or sintering of polymers, and thus traditionally there has been an inability to cosinter ceramic–polymer composites in a single step with high amounts of ceramics. The cold sintering process is a low‐temperature sintering technology recently developed for ceramics and ceramic‐based composites. A wide variety of ceramic materials have now been demonstrated to be densified under the cold sintering process and therefore can be all cosintered with polymers from room temperature to 300 °C. Here, the status, understanding, and application of cold cosintering, with different examples of ceramics and polymers, are discussed. One has to note that these types of cold sintering processes are yet new, and a full understanding will only emerge after more ceramic–polymer examples emerge and different research groups build upon these early observations. The general processing, property designs, and an outlook on cold sintering composites are outlined. Ultimately, the cold sintering process could open up a new multimaterial design space and impact the field of ceramic–polymer composites.
Dynamically Actuated Liquid‐Infused Poroelastic Film with Precise Control over Droplet Dynamics
Authors: Oh Inkyu , Keplinger Christoph , Cui Jiaxi , Chen Jiehao , Whitesides George M. , Aizenberg Joanna , Hu Yuhang
Published: August 2018

Traditional dynamic adaptive materials rely on an atomic/molecular mechanism of phase transition to induce macroscopic switch of properties, but only a small number of these materials and a limited responsive repertoire are available. Here, liquid as the adaptive component is utilized to realize responsive functions. Paired with a porous matrix that can be put in motion by an actuated dielectric elastomer film, the uncontrolled global flow of liquid is broken down to well‐defined reconfigurable localized flow within the pores and conforms to the network deformation. A detailed theoretical and experimental study of such a dynamically actuated liquid‐infused poroelastic film is discussed. This system demonstrates its ability to generate tunable surface wettability that can precisely control droplet dynamics from complete pinning, to fast sliding, and even more complex motions such as droplet oscillation, jetting, and mixing. This system also allows for repeated and seamless switch among these different droplet manipulations. These are desired properties in many applications such as reflective display, lab‐on‐a‐chip, optical device, dynamic measurements, energy harvesting, and others.
Difference‐Frequency Generation in Polaritonic Intersubband Nonlinear Metasurfaces
Authors: Liu Yingnan , Lee Jongwon , March Stephen , Nookala Nishant , Palaferri Daniele , Klem John F. , Bank Seth R. , Brener Igal , Belkin Mikhail A.
Published: August 2018

A nonlinear intersubband polaritonic metasurface designed for difference‐frequency generation that provides a practical level of nonlinear response under continuous wave illumination is reported. An effective nonlinear susceptibility of up to 340 nm V−1 is measured experimentally. Approximately 0.3% of λ = 5.4 µm photons are downconverted to λ = 12.9 µm photons at the focal spot in the experiment. This work indicates that the ultrathin metasurface devices may provide a versatile nonlinear element for frequency down‐ and upconversion in a relatively broad spectral range and without phase‐matching constrains of traditional bulk nonlinear crystals.
Optical Gaps of Organic Solar Cells as a Reference for Comparing Voltage Losses
Authors: Wang Yuming , Qian Deping , Cui Yong , Zhang Huotian , Hou Jianhui , Vandewal Koen , Kirchartz Thomas , Gao Feng
Published: August 2018

The voltage loss, determined by the difference between the optical gap (Eg) and the open‐circuit voltage (VOC), is one of the most important parameters determining the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the variety of different methods used to determine Eg makes it hard to fairly compare voltages losses among different material systems. In this paper, the authors discuss and compare various Eg determination methods and show how they affect the detailed calculation of voltage losses, as well as predictions of the maximum achievable power conversion efficiency. The aim of this paper is to make it possible for the OSC community to compare voltage losses in a consistent and reasonable way. It is found that the voltage losses for strongly absorbed photons in state‐of‐the‐art OSCs are not much less than 0.6 V, which still must be decreased to further enhance efficiency.
Dithiafulvenyl‐Naphthalenediimide‐based Small Molecules as efficient Non‐Fullerene Electron‐Transport Layer for Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shaikh Dada B. , Said Ahmed Ali , Bhosale Rajesh S. , Chen Wangqiao , Bhosale Sidhanath V. , Puyad Avinash L. , Bhosale Sheshanath V. , Zhang Qichun
Published: August 2018

Novel dithiafulvenyl (DTF)‐naphthalenediimide (NDI) derivatives DS1 and DS2 has been designed, synthesized and characterized. To replace the costly PCBM in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs), we here propose these materials. DS1 and DS2 were employed as electron transport layers (ETL) to fabricate inverted PSCs based on CH3NH3PbI3‐xClx. The best power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of inverted PSCs based on DS1 and DS2 exhibit 9.6% and 11.4%, respectively. The difference in PCE values revealed that DS2 bearing two DTF moieties on NDI core could enhance the PCE compared to DS1 containing one DTF moiety. Our results suggest that NDI‐based small molecules could be employed as a promising ETL in inverted PSCs to achieve high efficiency.
Dendrimer–N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine modulates monophagocytic response in adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Turk Bela R. , Nemeth Christina L. , Marx Joel S. , Tiffany Carol , Jones Richard , Theisen Benjamin , Kambhampati Siva , Ramireddy Raj , Singh Sarabdeep , Rosen Melissa , Kaufman Miriam L. , Murray Connor F. , Watkins Paul A. , Kannan Sujatha , Kannan Rangaramanujam , Fatemi Ali
Published: August 2018

Objective

X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a neurodegenerative disorder due to mutations in the peroxisomal very long‐chain fatty acyl‐CoA transporter, ABCD1, with limited therapeutic options. ALD may manifest in a slowly progressive adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) phenotype, or switch to rapid inflammatory demyelinating cerebral disease (cALD), in which microglia have been shown to play a pathophysiological role. The aim of this study was to determine the role of patient phenotype in the immune response of ex vivo monophagocytic cells to stimulation, and to evaluate the efficacy of polyamidoamine dendrimer conjugated to the antioxidant precursor N‐acetyl‐cysteine (NAC) in modulating this immune response.

Methods

Human monophagocytic cells were derived from fresh whole blood, from healthy (n = 4), heterozygote carrier (n = 4), AMN (n = 7), and cALD (n = 4) patients. Cells were exposed to very long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs; C24:0 and C26:0) and treated with dendrimer‐NAC (D‐NAC).

Results

Ex vivo exposure to VLCFAs significantly increased tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and glutamate secretion from cALD patient macrophages. Additionally, a significant reduction in total intracellular glutathione was observed in cALD patient cells. D‐NAC treatment dose‐dependently reduced TNFα and glutamate secretion and replenished total intracellular glutathione levels in cALD patient macrophages, more efficiently than NAC. Similarly, D‐NAC treatment decreased glutamate secretion in AMN patient cells.

Interpretation

ALD phenotypes display unique inflammatory profiles in response to VLCFA stimulation, and therefore ex vivo monophagocytic cells may provide a novel test bed for therapeutic agents. Based on our findings, D‐NAC may be a viable therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cALD. Ann Neurol 2018;84:452–462
Chemoselektive Aktivierung von Diethylphosphonaten: modulare Synthese von biologisch relevanten phosphonylierten Grundgerüsten
Authors: Adler Pauline , Pons Amandine , Li Jing , Heider Jörg , Brutiu Bogdan R. , Maulide Nuno
Published: August 2018

Phosphonate haben wegen ihrer einzigartigen biologischen Aktivitäten und ihres Synthesepotentials seit Jahren beachtliche Aufmerksamkeit erhalten. Modernste Methoden für die Herstellung von gemischten Phosphonaten, Phosphonamidaten, Phosphonothioaten und Phosphinaten beruhen auf harschen und wenig selektiven Reaktionsbedingungen. Hier wird eine milde Methode zur modularen Herstellung von phosphorylierten Derivaten, viele davon mit interessanten biologischen Aktivitäten, über chemoselektive Aktivierung mittels Trifluormethansulfonsäure‐Anhydrid beschrieben. Diese Vorgehensweise ermöglicht eine flexible und sogar iterative Substitution mit einem breiten Spektrum an O‐, S‐, N‐ und C‐Nukleophilen.
Nanoskopische Bildgebung der Vernetzungsdichte in Polymernetzwerken mittels Diarylethen‐Photoschaltern
Authors: Siemes Eric , Nevskyi Oleksii , Sysoiev Dmytro , Turnhoff Sarah K. , Oppermann Alex , Huhn Thomas , Richtering Walter , Wöll Dominik
Published: August 2018

Die nanoskopische In‐situ‐Bildgebung weicher Polymerstrukturen ist für das Verständnis der Zusammenhänge von Struktur, Eigenschaften und Funktionalität im nm‐Bereich entscheidend. Die Vernetzung von Polymerketten legt die viskoelastischen Eigenschaften eines Gels fest, und die Korrelation zwischen mechanischen Eigenschaften und der Verteilung und Menge an Vernetzern ist für Anwendungen und ein elementares Verständnis von Polymeren auf der molekularen Ebene relevant. Hier wird eine auf superauflösender Fluoreszenzmikroskopie basierende Methodik zur Visualisierung und Quantifizierung von Vernetzungspunkten in Polymersystemen vorgestellt. Ein neuartiger Diarylethen‐Photoschalter mit stark fluoreszierender geschlossener und nicht‐fluoreszierender offener Form wird als photoschaltbarer Vernetzer in ein Polymernetzwerk eingebaut. Seine photophysikalischen Eigenschaften, sein Schaltverhalten und seine hohe Photostabilität machen ihn zu einem idealen Kandidaten für photoaktivierte Lokalisationsmikroskopie. Als Anwendungsbeispiel wurden pNIPAM‐Mikrogele untersucht, die bekanntlich hohe Variationen in ihrer internen Vernetzungsdichte aufweisen.
Molecular Engineering of Free‐Base Porphyrins as Ligands—The N−H⋅⋅⋅X Binding Motif in Tetrapyrroles
Authors: Kielmann Marc , Senge Mathias O.
Published: August 2018

The core N−H units of planar porphyrins are often inaccessible to forming hydrogen‐bonding complexes with acceptor molecules. This is due to the fact that the amine moieties are “shielded” by the macrocyclic system, impeding the formation of intermolecular H‐bonds. However, methods exist to modulate the tetrapyrrole conformations and to reshape the vector of N−H orientation outwards, thus increasing their availability and reactivity. Strategies include the use of porpho(di)methenes and phlorins (calixphyrins), as well as saddle‐distorted porphyrins. The former form cavities due to interruption of the aromatic system. The latter are highly basic systems and capable of binding anions and neutral molecules via N−H⋅⋅⋅X‐type H‐bonds. This Review discusses the role of porphyrin(oid) ligands in various coordination‐type complexes, means to access the core for hydrogen bonding, the concept of conformational control, and emerging applications, such as organocatalysis and sensors.
Iron Scavenging in Aspergillus Species: Structural and Biochemical Insights into Fungal Siderophore Esterases
Authors: Ecker Felix , Haas Hubertus , Groll Michael , Huber Eva M.
Published: August 2018

Fungi utilize high‐affinity chelators termed siderophores with chemically diverse structures to scavenge the essential nutrient iron from their surroundings. Since they are among the strongest known Fe3+ binding agents, intracellular release of the heavy metal atom is facilitated by the activity of specific hydrolases. In this work, we report the characterization and X‐ray crystal structures of four siderophore esterases: AfEstB and AfSidJ from Aspergillus fumigatus, as well as AnEstB and AnEstA from Aspergillus nidulans. Even though they all display the conserved α/β‐hydrolase fold, we found significant structural and enzymatic discrepancies in their adaption to both related and chemically diverse substrates. A structure of AfEstB in complex with its substrate triacetylfusarinine C gives insight into the active enzyme and shows tetrahedral coordination between the catalytic serine and the scissile ester bond.
Early Detection of Silent Myocardial Impairment in Drug‐Naive Patients With New‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Guo Qiang , Wu Lian‐Ming , Wang Zi , Shen Jia‐Yan , Su Xuan , Wang Chang‐Qian , Gong Xing‐Rong , Yan Qing‐Ran , He Qing , Zhang Wei , Xu Jian‐Rong , Jiang Meng , Pu Jun
Published: August 2018

Objective

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has enabled the assessment of myocardial features, from tissue characteristics to functional changes, in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Echocardiography, however, detects cardiac decompensation. This study was undertaken to investigate the use of cardiac MRI to explore early warning signs of silent cardiac involvement and determine treatment timing in SLE.

Methods

Clinical assessment and cardiac MRI studies were performed in 50 drug‐naive patients with new‐onset SLE, 60 patients with longstanding SLE, and 50 healthy subjects in a 3‐center prospective study.

Results

Analysis of cardiac enzymes, the presence and size of regional myocardial fibrosis as indicated by late gadolinium enhancement, strain changes, and biventricular ejection fraction did not indicate cardiac impairment in the patients with new‐onset SLE. Native myocardial T1 and extracellular volume (ECV), which are extracellular matrix indices, were elevated in the patients with new‐onset SLE (mean ± SD 1,369 ± 79 msec versus 1,092 ± 57 msec in the control group for native T1; 32 ± 5% versus 24 ± 3% in the control group for ECV; P < 0.001 for both). The elevation was independent of SLE disease activity.

Conclusion

This is the first study to indicate that drug‐naive patients with new‐onset SLE, even those with inactive disease, are likely to have silent cardiac impairment. Structural and functional changes in the myocardium are related to SLE disease stage; this finding indicates the value of early detection of myocardial involvement. Native myocardial T1 values and ECV, rather than currently used clinical rheumatic and cardiac indices, could serve as early detection markers of myocardial injury before the presence of visual fibrosis and functional decompensation.
Quarzmehlfreier UHPC mit Kalkstein‐ oder Basaltmehl
Authors: Wetzel Alexander , Piotrowski Siemon , Reinhardt Lena , Middendorf Bernhard
Published: August 2018

Ultrahochfester Beton wird aktuell in Deutschland insbesondere im Bereich der Betonfertigteile eingesetzt. Seine besonderen Eigenschaften resultieren aus einem geringen Wasser/Bindemittel‐Wert von ca. 0,2 und dem Einsatz von Hochleistungsfließmitteln sowie Feinstoffen zur Optimierung der Packungsdichte. Neben der Verwendung von reaktivem Silikastaub als feinste Komponente ist ferner der Einsatz von Quarzmehl für die optimale Packungsdichte und somit neben weiteren Effekten für die besonders hohe Dauerhaftigkeit und die hohe Druckfestigkeit entscheidend. Da Quarzmehl lungengängig und nachgewiesen karzinogen ist, wird mit Hochdruck nach Alternativen gesucht. In dieser Arbeit wurde auf Basis einer bestehenden UHPC‐Formulierung das Quarzmehl durch Kalkstein‐ und Basaltmehl substituiert. Nach der Optimierung der Frischbetoneigenschaften wurden die Eigenschaften des Festbetons charakterisiert. Die Kriterien eines UHPC können sowohl mit Kalkstein‐ als auch mit Basaltmehl erfüllt werden. Es ergeben sich im Falle von Basaltmehl sogar noch weitere Vorteile bezüglich der mechanischen Eigenschaften.
Ternary Acceptor–Donor–Acceptor Asymmetrical Phenanthroimidazole Molecule for Highly Efficient Near‐Ultraviolet Electroluminescence with External Quantum Efficiency (EQE) >4 %
Authors: Liu Bin , Zhu Ze‐Lin , Zhao Jue‐Wen , He Dan , Wang Zhong‐Yi , Luo Cheng‐Yuan , Tong Qing‐Xiao , Lee Chun‐Sing , Tao Si‐Lu
Published: August 2018

A new ternary acceptor (A)–donor (D)–acceptor (A) asymmetrically twisted deep‐blue emitting molecule, PPI‐2BI, was synthesized by attaching two electrophilic benzimidazole (BI) units to the C2 and N1 positions of a phenanthroimidazole (PI) donor unit. Profiting from the enhanced D–A electronic coupling, the electron injecting and transporting abilities of the new triangle‐shaped A–D–A molecule are considerably improved and the molecule shows high photoluminescence (PL) and electroluminescence (EL) efficiencies. By using PPI‐2BI as a non‐doped emitting layer (EML), the resulting organic light‐emitting device exhibits emission with color coordinates of (0.158, 0.124) and a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE), current efficiency (CE), and power efficiency (PE) of 4.63 %, 4.98 cd A−1, and 4.82 lm W−1, respectively. Additionally, a simple bilayer device using PPI‐2BI as both the EML and the electron‐transporting layer (ETL) also shows an EQE of 3.81 % with little changes to the color purity. Remarkably, a PPI‐2BI‐based doped device emits efficient near‐ultraviolet EL with color coordinates of (0.154, 0.047) and an EQE of 4.12 %, which is comparable to that of the best reported near‐UV emitting devices.
Wie brennt eine Kerze in Schwerelosigkeit?
Authors: Litzius Kai
Published: August 2018

Wir sind alle vertraut mit dem Anblick einer Kerzenflamme. Warm, hellgelb, und geformt wie eine Träne schmiegt sie sich eng an den Docht, nur um dann weit ins Leere darüber zu reichen. Dieses Verhalten ist leicht erklärbar durch das Aufsteigen – der Konvektion – der weniger dichten Luft, die durch die Verbrennung um den Docht herum erwärmt und von kühler, schwererer Luft nach oben verdrängt wird. Doch was passiert, wenn man eine Kerzenflamme in Schwerelosigkeit versetzt?
In vivo analyses of radial spoke transport, assembly, repair and maintenance
Authors: Lechtreck Karl F. , Mengoni Ilaria , Okivie Batare , Hilderhoff Kiersten B.
Published: August 2018

Radial spokes (RSs) are multiprotein complexes that regulate dynein activity. In the cell body, RS proteins (RSPs) are present in a 12S precursor, which enters the flagella and converts into the axoneme‐bound 20S spokes consisting of a head and stalk. To study RS dynamics in vivo, we expressed fluorescent protein (FP)‐tagged versions of the head protein RSP4 and the stalk protein RSP3 to rescue the corresponding Chlamydomonas mutants pf1, lacking spoke heads, and pf14, lacking RSs entirely. RSP3 and RSP4 mostly co‐migrated by intraflagellar transport (IFT). The transport was elevated during flagellar assembly and IFT of RSP4‐FP depended on RSP3. To study RS assembly independently of ciliogenesis, strains expressing FP‐tagged RSPs were mated to untagged cells with, without, or with partial RSs. Tagged RSPs were incorporated in a spotted fashion along wild‐type‐derived flagella indicating an exchange of RSs. During the repair of pf1‐derived axonemes, RSP4‐FP is added onto the preexisting spoke stalks with little exchange of RSP3. Thus, RSP3 and RSP4 are transported together but appear to separate inside flagella during the repair of RSs. The 12S RS precursor encompassing both proteins could represent a transport form to ensure stoichiometric delivery of RSPs into flagella by IFT.
A single GABA neuron receives contacts from myelinated primary afferents of two adjacent peripheral nerves. A possible role in neuropathic pain
Authors: Shehab Safa , Rehmathulla Sumisha , Javed Hayate
Published: August 2018

GAD67‐EGFP mice were used in a series of experiments to provide anatomical evidence for the role of the reduction in myelinated primary afferent input to GABA spinal neurons in the production of neuropathic pain following peripheral L5 nerve injury. First, we confirmed that L5 injury in these mice produced mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral foot. Second, we injected a mixture of cholera toxin subunit‐B (CTb) and isolectin B4 (IB4) in the sciatic nerve to selectively label its myelinated and unmyelinated primary afferents. Results showed that primary afferents of sciatic nerve extend from L2‐L6 spinal segments. Third, we determined the central terminations of myelinated primary afferents of L4 and L5 spinal nerves following CTb injection in either nerve. The myelinated primary afferents of both nerves terminated in the corresponding and two to three rostral spinal segments with some fibers descending to terminate in the segment caudal to the level at which they entered indicating an intermingling of their terminals at the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Fourthly, we injected CTb in L5 nerve and CTb HRP‐conjugate in L4 nerve. Confocal microscopy and subsequent image analyses showed that individual EGFP‐labeled neurons in L4 segment receive myelinated primary afferent contacts from both L4 and L5 nerves. Eliminating inputs from L5 nerve following its injury would result in less involvement of spinal GABA neurons which would very likely initiate neuronal sensitization in L4 segment. This could lead to the development of hyperalgesia in response to the stimulation of the adjacent uninjured L4 nerve.
A modified whitening transform for the reduction of spatial data redundancy in multichannel neural recording implants
Authors: Yazdani Niloofar , Rashidi Amin , Sodagar Amir M.
Published: August 2018

This paper proposes an approach for the reduction of redundant spatial information recorded by implantable high‐density neural recording microsystems. To realize the proposed approach, a modified whitening transform is introduced, which is efficient enough (in hardware implementation) to comply with the hardware design constraints associated with implantable microsystems. Based on the proposed approach, a 32‐channel processor is designed, prototyped, and tested for a library of both pre‐recorded and synthesized multichannel single‐unit neural signals. Designed in a 0.18‐μm standard CMOS technology, the processor occupies 0.3 mm2 of silicon area and consumes 238 μW @1.8 V/1.28 MHz.
Belief in conspiracy theories: Basic principles of an emerging research domain
Authors: van Prooijen Jan‐Willem , Douglas Karen M.
Published: August 2018

In this introduction to the EJSP Special Issue on conspiracy theories as a social psychological phenomenon, we describe how this emerging research domain has developed over the past decade and distill four basic principles that characterize belief in conspiracy theories. Specifically, conspiracy theories are consequential as they have a real impact on people's health, relationships, and safety; they are universal in that belief in them is widespread across times, cultures, and social settings; they are emotional given that negative emotions and not rational deliberations cause conspiracy beliefs; and they are social as conspiracy beliefs are closely associated with psychological motivations underlying intergroup conflict. We then discuss future research and possible policy interventions in this growing area of enquiry.
Hippocampal ripples as a mode of communication with cortical and subcortical areas
Authors: Todorova Ralitsa , Zugaro Michaël
Published: August 2018

Hippocampal sharp wave‐ripple complexes are transient events of highly synchronous neuronal activity that typically occur during “offline” brain states. This endogenous surge of activity consists of behaviorally relevant spiking patterns, describing spatial trajectories. They have been shown to play a critical role in memory consolidation during sleep and in navigational planning during wakefulness. Beyond their local impact on the hippocampal formation, ripples also exert direct and indirect effects on target cortical and subcortical areas, which are thought to play a key role in information processing and semantic network reconfiguration. We review research into the function of hippocampal sharp waves‐ripples, with a special focus on information flow between the hippocampus and its cortical and subcortical targets. First, we briefly review seminal work establishing a causal role of ripple‐related activity in cognitive processes. We then review evidence for a functional interplay between hippocampal ripples and specific patterns of cortical and subcortical activity. Finally, we discuss the critical role of the functional coupling between ripples and other sleep rhythms, including the cortical slow oscillation and thalamocortical sleep spindles.