bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magic angle spinning NMR with metallized rotors as cylindrical microwave resonators
Authors: Scott Faith J. , Sesti Erika L. , Choi Eric J. , Laut Alexander J. , Sirigiri Jagadishwar R. , Barnes Alexander B.
Published: April 2018

We introduce a novel design for millimeter wave electromagnetic structures within magic angle spinning (MAS) rotors. In this demonstration, a copper coating is vacuum deposited onto the outside surface of a sapphire rotor at a thickness of 50 nm. This thickness is sufficient to reflect 197‐GHz microwaves, yet not too thick as to interfere with radiofrequency fields at 300 MHz or prevent sample spinning due to eddy currents. Electromagnetic simulations of an idealized rotor geometry show a microwave quality factor of 148. MAS experiments with sample rotation frequencies of ωr/2π = 5.4 kHz demonstrate that the drag force due to eddy currents within the copper does not prevent sample spinning. Spectra of sodium acetate show resolved 13C J‐couplings of 60 Hz and no appreciable broadening between coated and uncoated sapphire rotors, demonstrating that the copper coating does not prevent shimming and high‐resolution nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Additionally, 13C Rabi nutation curves of ω1/2π = 103 kHz for both coated and uncoated rotors indicate no detrimental impact of the copper coating on radio frequency coupling of the nuclear spins to the sample coil. We present this metal coated rotor as a first step towards an MAS resonator. MAS resonators are expected to have a significant impact on developments in electron decoupling, pulsed dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP), room temperature DNP, DNP with low‐power microwave sources, and electron paramagnetic resonance detection.
Myocardial perfusion quantification using simultaneously acquired 13NH3‐ammonia PET and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI in patients at rest and stress
Authors: Kunze Karl P. , Nekolla Stephan G. , Rischpler Christoph , Zhang Shelley HuaLei , Hayes Carmel , Langwieser Nicolas , Ibrahim Tareq , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Schwaiger Markus
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Systematic differences with respect to myocardial perfusion quantification exist between DCE‐MRI and PET. Using the potential of integrated PET/MRI, this study was conceived to compare perfusion quantification on the basis of simultaneously acquired 13NH3‐ammonia PET and DCE‐MRI data in patients at rest and stress.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients were examined on a 3T PET/MRI scanner. DCE‐MRI was implemented in dual‐sequence design and additional T1 mapping for signal normalization. Four different deconvolution methods including a modified version of the Fermi technique were compared against 13NH3‐ammonia results.

Results

Cohort‐average flow comparison yielded higher resting flows for DCE‐MRI than for PET and, therefore, significantly lower DCE‐MRI perfusion ratios under the common assumption of equal arterial and tissue hematocrit. Absolute flow values were strongly correlated in both slice‐average (R2 = 0.82) and regional (R2 = 0.7) evaluations. Different DCE‐MRI deconvolution methods yielded similar flow result with exception of an unconstrained Fermi method exhibiting outliers at high flows when compared with PET.

Conclusion

Thresholds for Ischemia classification may not be directly tradable between PET and MRI flow values. Differences in perfusion ratios between PET and DCE‐MRI may be lifted by using stress/rest‐specific hematocrit conversion. Proper physiological constraints are advised in model‐constrained deconvolution.
NMR‐based metabolomics of biofluids in cancer
Authors: Giskeødegård Guro F. , Madssen Torfinn S. , Euceda Leslie R. , Tessem May‐Britt , Moestue Siver A. , Bathen Tone F.
Published: April 2018

Metabolomics is the branch of “omics” technologies that involves high‐throughput identification and quantification of small‐molecule metabolites in the metabolome. NMR‐based spectroscopy of biofluids represents a potential method for non‐invasive characterization of cancer. While the metabolism of cancer cells is altered compared with normal non‐proliferating cells, the metabolome of several biofluids (e.g. blood and urine) reflects the metabolism of the entire organism. This review provides an update on the current status of NMR metabolomics analysis of biofluids with respect to: (i) cancer risk assessment; (ii) cancer detection; (iii) disease characterization and prognosis; and (iv) treatment monitoring. We conclude that many studies show impressive associations between biofluid metabolomics and cancer progression, and suggest that NMR metabolomics can be used to provide information with prognostic or predictive value. However, translation of these findings to clinical practice is currently hindered by a lack of validation, difficulties in biological interpretation, and non‐standardized analytical procedures.
Solution for the general integral‐type nonlocal plasticity model with Tikhonov regularization
Authors: Wu Shouxin
Published: April 2018

A new solution approach, based on Tikhonov regularization on the Fredholm integral equations of the first kind, is proposed to find the approximate solutions of the strain softening problems. In this approach, the consistency condition is regularized with the Tikhonov stabilizers along with a regularization parameter, and the internal variable increments are solved from the resulting Euler's equations. It is shown that, as the regularization parameter is increased, the solutions converge to a unique one. A nonlocal yield condition and a nonlocal return mapping algorithm are proposed to carry out the integration of constitutive equations in the time and spatial domains. A global plastic dissipation principle is proposed to relax the classical local plastic dissipation postulate. Numerical examples show that the proposed approach leads to objective, mesh‐independent solutions of the softening‐induced localization problems. A comparison of the results from the proposed approach with those from the gradient‐dependent plasticity model shows that the two models give close solutions.
America's worst charities: The effect of bad press on philanthropic giving behavior
Authors: Jones Jennifer A. , Cantrell Randall A. , Lindsey Angela B.
Published: April 2018

Negative media stories about nonprofits can potentially lead to decreased financial donations. We used agenda setting theory to study donors' perceptions of what could arguably be called one of the most negative nonprofit media stories in recent times: the 2013 Tampa Bay Times report titled “America's worst charities.” This news story identified and ranked America's 50 worst charities based on solicitation (i.e., fundraising) costs and was investigated further by CNN. We surveyed 655 individuals in August 2016 and found that approximately 3 years since the story had aired, 278 (42.4%) of the sample still remembered the news story, and the majority of them reported that it negatively influenced their thinking (63%) and philanthropic donation behavior (62%). These findings have implications for nonprofit media relations and fundraising.
Menin regulates the serine biosynthetic pathway in Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Svoboda Laurie K , Teh Selina Shiqing K , Sud Sudha , Kerk Samuel , Zebolsky Aaron , Treichel Sydney , Thomas Dafydd , Halbrook Christopher J , Lee Ho‐Joon , Kremer Daniel , Zhang Li , Klossowski Szymon , Bankhead Armand R , Magnuson Brian , Ljungman Mats , Cierpicki Tomasz , Grembecka Jolanta , Lyssiotis Costas A , Lawlor Elizabeth R
Published: April 2018

Developmental transcription programs are epigenetically regulated by multi‐protein complexes, including the menin‐ and MLL‐containing trithorax (TrxG) complexes, which promote gene transcription by depositing the H3K4me3 activating mark at target gene promoters. We recently reported that in Ewing sarcoma, MLL1 (lysine methyltransferase 2A, KMT2A) and menin are overexpressed and function as oncogenes. Small molecule inhibition of the menin–MLL interaction leads to loss of menin and MLL1 protein expression, and to inhibition of growth and tumorigenicity. Here, we have investigated the mechanistic basis of menin–MLL‐mediated oncogenic activity in Ewing sarcoma. Bromouridine sequencing (Bru‐seq) was performed to identify changes in nascent gene transcription in Ewing sarcoma cells, following exposure to the menin–MLL interaction inhibitor MI‐503. Menin–MLL inhibition resulted in early and widespread reprogramming of metabolic processes. In particular, the serine biosynthetic pathway (SSP) was the pathway most significantly affected by MI‐503 treatment. Baseline expression of SSP genes and proteins (PHGDH, PSAT1, and PSPH), and metabolic flux through the SSP were confirmed to be high in Ewing sarcoma. In addition, inhibition of PHGDH resulted in reduced cell proliferation, viability, and tumor growth in vivo, revealing a key dependency of Ewing sarcoma on the SSP. Loss of function studies validated a mechanistic link between menin and the SSP. Specifically, inhibition of menin resulted in diminished expression of SSP genes, reduced H3K4me3 enrichment at the PHGDH promoter, and complete abrogation of de novo serine and glycine biosynthesis, as demonstrated by metabolic tracing studies with 13C‐labeled glucose. These data demonstrate that the SSP is highly active in Ewing sarcoma and that its oncogenic activation is maintained, at least in part, by menin‐dependent epigenetic mechanisms involving trithorax complexes. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabolomic profiling and biological investigation of the marine sponge‐derived bacterium Rhodococcus sp. UA13
Authors: Elsayed Yasmin , Refaat John , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Othman Eman Maher , Stopper Helga , Fouad Mostafa Ahmed
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Marine sponge‐associated actinomycetes are potent sources of bioactive natural products of pharmaceutical significance. They also contributed to the discovery of several clinically relevant antimicrobials.

Objective

To apply the non‐targeted metabolomics approach in chemical profiling of the sponge‐derived bacterium Rhodococcus sp. UA13, formerly recovered from the Red Sea sponge Callyspongia aff. Implexa, along with testing for the anti‐infective potential of its different fractions.

Methodology

Metabolomic analysis of the crude extract was carried out using liquid chromatography with high resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (LC‐HR‐ESI‐MS) for dereplication purposes. Besides, the three major fractions (ethyl acetate, methanol, and n‐butanol) obtained by chromatographic fractionation of the crude extract were evaluated for their anti‐infective properties.

Results

A variety of metabolites, mostly peptides, were characterised herein for the first time from the genus Rhodococcus. Among the tested samples, the n‐butanol fraction showed potent inhibitory activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Trypanosoma brucei brucei with IC50 values of 9.3, 6.7, and 8.7 μg/mL, respectively, whereas only the ethyl acetate fraction was active against Chlamydia trachomatis (IC50 = 18.9 μg/mL). In contrast, both fractions did not exert anti‐infective actions against Enterococcus faecalis and Leishmania major, whereas the methanol fraction was totally inactive against all the tested organisms.

Conclusion

This study showed the helpfulness of the established procedure in metabolic profiling of marine actinomycetes using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC–MS) data, which aids in reducing the complex isolation steps during their chemical characterisation. The anti‐infective spectrum of their metabolites is also interestingly relevant to future drug development.
Assessment of mechanical performance, thermal stability and water resistance of novel conductive poly(lactic acid)/modified natural rubber blends with low loading of polyaniline
Authors: Shahdan Dalila , Chen Ruey S , Ahmad Sahrim , Zailan Farrah D , Mat Ali Adilah
Published: April 2018

Biodegradable conductive polymer blends made from poly(lactic acid) (PLA), liquid natural rubber (LNR) and polyaniline (PANI) were prepared via a melt‐blending technique assisted by ultrasonic treatment. The effects of PANI at low loading (0.03 to 0.11 wt%) on the electrical conductivity and mechanical, thermal and physical properties of PLA/LNR/PANI blends were investigated. It was found that the mechanical properties of samples improved when PANI was introduced into PLA/LNR. Tensile results showed that the optimum loading of PANI was achieved at 0.07 wt% with an improvement of 8% in tensile strength compared to neat PLA/LNR. Although it was at low loading, the incorporation of PANI promoted an outstanding electrical conductivity to PLA/LNR blends. Thermal analysis of the PLA/LNR/PANI blends was conducted using differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry. The thermal stabilities of the blends were improved markedly with the presence of PANI. Comparing to PLA/LNR, the incorporation of PANI component improved the resistance towards water absorption. Variable‐pressure scanning electron microscopy micrographs of PLA/LNR/PANI confirmed the good mixing of PANI with PLA/LNR and strong interaction networks among the PANI, PLA and LNR components. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Fabrication and characteristics of graphene‐reinforced silver nanowire/polybenzoxazine/epoxy copolymer composite thin films
Authors: Chou Tsung‐Yu , Tsai Hung‐Yin , Hsu Chen‐Hao , Yip Ming‐Chuen
Published: April 2018

In this study, composite thin films were fabricated by mixing one‐dimensional silver nanowires (AgNWs) with graphene, polybenzoxazine (PBZ) and epoxy. Their electrical and thermal properties under different environmental conditions were investigated. The AgNWs were prepared by a polyol reduction method using ethylene glycol as a reducing agent and polyvinylpyrrolidone as a soft template to reduce silver ions. High aspect ratio AgNWs were then mixed into polymer matrices to allow them to form electrical and thermal conductive paths. Next, a trace amount of graphene was added into the nanocomposites in order to enhance their electrical and thermal properties. The results showed that the addition of graphene and AgNWs improved the threshold leakage current, and a 33% increase in thermal diffusivity was observed. The water resistance and gas barrier properties of PBZ and graphene effectively improved the thermal oxidation stability, and a 200% increase in electrical conductivity was achieved after 120 h of thermal oxidation treatment. A considerable difference was observed between the moduli of epoxy and PBZ. Hardness and phase analyses using atomic force microscopy showed that material modulus mismatch occurred across the interface between the materials, triggering phonon scattering. However, the increase in thermal conductivity was not significant for either material. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Space degradation of 3J solar cells: I—Proton irradiation
Authors: Park Seonyong , Bourgoin Jacques C. , Sim Hyeonseok , Baur Carsten , Khorenko Victor , Cavani Olivier , Bourcois Jérôme , Picard Sandrine , Boizot Bruno
Published: April 2018

To understand the influence of proton irradiation on lattice‐matched GaInP/GaAs/Ge triple junction (TJ) solar cells under low intensity, low temperature (LILT) conditions, we investigated electrical behaviors of top, middle, and bottom component cells together with TJ cells under these conditions. Proton irradiations with energies of 1 MeV and fluences ranging from 2 × 1010 to 1.6 × 1012 cm−2 were performed at temperatures ranging from 100 to 300 K. Our study reveals that any of the 3 subcells can become the current limiting cell in the TJ cell, depending on temperature and fluence. In particular, remarkable degradation of the bottom cell at low temperature can make this subcell the current limiting in a TJ cell even for limited fluences. The results indicate that the defect distribution is non‐uniform for low temperature irradiation.
Electronic cigarette use among patients with cancer: Reasons for use, beliefs, and patient‐provider communication
Authors: Correa John B. , Brandon Karen O. , Meltzer Lauren R. , Hoehn Hannah J. , Piñeiro Bárbara , Brandon Thomas H. , Simmons Vani N.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Smoking tobacco cigarettes after a cancer diagnosis increases risk for several serious adverse outcomes. Thus, patients can significantly benefit from quitting smoking. Electronic cigarettes are an increasingly popular cessation method. Providers routinely ask about combustible cigarette use, yet little is known about use and communication surrounding e‐cigarettes among patients with cancer. This study aims to describe patterns, beliefs, and communication with oncology providers about e‐cigarette use of patients with cancer.

Methods

Patients with cancer (N = 121) who currently used e‐cigarettes were surveyed in a cross‐sectional study about their patterns and reasons for use, beliefs, and perceptions of risk for e‐cigarettes, combustible cigarettes, and nicotine replacement therapies. Patient perspectives on provider communication regarding e‐cigarettes were also assessed.

Results

Most participants identified smoking cessation as the reason for initiating (81%) and continuing (60%) e‐cigarette use. However, 51% of patients reported current dual use of combustible cigarettes and e‐cigarettes, and most patients reported never having discussed their use of e‐cigarettes with their oncology provider (72%). Patients characterized e‐cigarettes as less addictive, less expensive, less stigmatizing, and less likely to impact cancer treatment than combustible cigarettes (Ps < .05), and more satisfying, more useful for quitting smoking, and more effective at reducing cancer‐related stress than nicotine replacement therapies (Ps < .05).

Conclusions

Patients with cancer who use e‐cigarettes have positive attitudes toward these devices and use them to aid in smoking cessation. This study also highlights the need for improved patient‐provider communication on the safety and efficacy of e‐cigarettes for smoking cessation.
Trends of neuraminidase inhibitors use in children with influenza related respiratory infections
Authors: Uda Kazuhiro , Okubo Yusuke , Shoji Kensuke , Miyairi Isao , Morisaki Naho , Michihata Nobuaki , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: April 2018

Background

Neuraminidase inhibitors are recommended for children hospitalized with influenza‐related respiratory infections, and oseltamivir is the first choice of treatment in most situations. However, little is known regarding the recent trend in using neuraminidase inhibitors and their difference in health economy. The aim of this study was to reveal recent trends in neuraminidase inhibitor use and compare hospitalization costs across different treatment regimens.

Methods

We retrospectively obtained the hospital discharge records of inpatients under 18 years of age with a diagnosis of influenza‐related respiratory infections using a national inpatient database in Japan. We excluded patients with chronic medical conditions from the analyses. Multivariable mixed effects regression models were used to investigate the recent treatment trends and healthcare costs.

Results

We identified 27 771 inpatients with influenza‐related respiratory infections. The proportions of neuraminidase inhibitor use increased from 62.6% in 2010 to 71.8% in2014 (Ptrend < 0.001). Correspondingly, the proportions of peramivir use showed an upward trend, ranging from 31.4% to 57.4% (Ptrend < 0.001). In contrast, proportions of oseltamivir and zanamivir use decreased from 26.1% to 12.1% and from 4.9% to 1.5%, respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). Laninamivir use did not change over the period. Total hospitalization costs were higher in the peramivir group than in the oseltamivir group (adjusted difference, $84.3; 95%CI, $70.7‐$98.4).

Conclusions

We observed an increasing trend in peramivir use and decreasing trends in use of oseltamivir and zanamivir. Treatment with peramivir required higher hospitalization costs.
Two long non‐coding RNAs, Prcat17.3 and Prcat38, could efficiently discriminate benign prostate hyperplasia from prostate cancer
Authors: Bayat Hamid , Narouie Behzad , Ziaee Seyed‐Amir Mohsen , Mowla Seyed Javad
Published: April 2018

Background

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently appeared as new players in cancer biology. Recently, a number of new prostate cancer‐associated lncRNAs has been listed via RNA‐seq approach by Mitranscriptome project. By analyzing this data we chose four lncRNAs (Prcat17.3, Prcat38, Prcat47, and Cat2184.4) and evaluated their expressions and their abilities to discriminate prostate tumors from benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods

Fresh Prostate tissue samples (30 BPH, and 30 tumor samples) and urine samples (19 BPH, and 19 tumor samples) were collected and their total RNA extracted for cDNA syntheses. The expression of candidate lncRNAs was assessed by the real‐time PCR technique.

Results

Our data revealed that the expression levels of PRCAT17.3 (P < 0.0001) and PRCAT38 (P < 0.0002) were significantly upregulated in human prostate cancer tissues, compared to BPH ones. Moreover, the altered expression was much higher for PRCAT17.3 (∼2000 folds) than PRCAT38 (∼50 folds). In contrast, the expression of Cat2184.4 showed a significant down‐regulation in tumor samples (P < 0.0001), compared to BPH ones. While the expression level of PRCAT47 was increased in cancer samples, the changes were not statistically significant. In discriminating prostate tumors from BPH samples, Prcat17.3 (AUC‐ROC, 0.927) demonstrated a better diagnostic efficacy than Prcat38 (AUC‐ROC, 0.778). Moreover, real‐time RT‐PCR analyses on urine samples of prostate cancer patients revealed that prcat17.3 level is significantly elevated, (P < 0.0197; AUC‐ROC value of 0.72), compared to that of BPH patients.

Conclusion

We introduce here two novel lncRNAs with a potential application in diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Thai herbal antipyretic 22 formula (APF22) inhibits UVA‐mediated melanogenesis through activation of Nrf2‐regulated antioxidant defense
Authors: Onkoksoong Tasanee , Jeayeng Saowanee , Poungvarin Naravat , Limsaengurai Saowalak , Thamsermsang Onusa , Tripatara Pinpat , Akarasereenont Pravit , Panich Uraiwan
Published: April 2018

Thai herbal antipyretic 22 formula (APF22), a polyherbal formula, has been traditionally used to treat dermatologic problems including hyperpigmentation. Exposure of the skin to ultraviolet A (UVA) causes abnormal melanin production induced by photooxidative stress. This study thus aimed to investigate the protective effects of APF22 extracts and phenolic compounds, ferulic acid (FA), and gallic acid (GA; used as positive control and reference compounds), on melanogenesis through modulation of nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling and antioxidant defenses in mouse melanoma (B16F10) cells exposed to UVA. Our results revealed that the APF22 extracts, FA, and GA reduced melanin synthesis as well as activity and protein levels of tyrosinase in UVA‐irradiated B16F10 cells. Moreover, APF22 extracts and both FA and GA were able to activate Nrf2‐antioxidant response element signaling and promote antioxidant defenses including glutathione, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and the glutathione‐S‐transferase at both mRNA and enzyme activity levels in irradiated cells. In conclusion, APF22 extracts suppressed UVA‐mediated melanogenesis in B16F10 cells possibly via redox mechanisms involving activation of Nrf2 signaling and upregulation of antioxidant defenses. Moreover, pharmacological action of the APF22 extracts may be attributed to the phenolic compounds, FA, and GA, probably serving as the APF22's active compounds.
Inhibition of HSV‐2 infection by pure compounds from Thymus capitatus extract in vitro
Authors: Toujani Marwa Mekni , Rittà Massimo , Civra Andrea , Genovese Salvatore , Epifano Francesco , Ghram Abdeljelil , Lembo David , Donalisio Manuela
Published: April 2018

Thymus capitatus represents 1 of the 5 Tunisian species of the genus Thymus, which has long‐standing use for flavouring and preserving several food products. Its constituents have been reported to endow antimicrobial properties, but little is known about their antiviral activities. The aim of this study was to examine the antiviral activity of pure compounds from the most bioactive inhibitory T. capitatus extract in vitro against herpes simplex virus Type 2 (HSV‐2) infection and to identify their mechanism of action. Either the extracts or the essential oil exert inhibitory activity against HSV‐2 infection, with the ethanolic extract showing the lowest EC50 value (2.3 μg/ml). Three pure compounds were then isolated from the ethanolic extract and investigated for their antiviral activity. β‐sitosterol showed the most favourable selectivity index and both cinnamaldehyde and carvacrol exerted moderate antiviral effect. Investigation of the mechanism of action revealed that all three compounds directly inactivated the infectivity of the virus particles. These findings suggest the use of T. capitatus ethanolic extract as source of anti‐HSV‐2 pure compounds and warrant further studies to evaluate their therapeutic potential.
Plumbagin exerts antiobesity effects through inhibition of pancreatic lipase and adipocyte differentiation
Authors: Pai S.A. , Martis E.A.F. , Joshi S.G. , Munshi R.P. , Juvekar A.R.
Published: April 2018

Plumbagin is a naphthoquinone found in the roots of Plumbago zeylanica. Here, we report an investigation to evaluate its antiobesity activity. The preliminary binding affinity of plumbagin to human pancreatic lipase (PL) was determined using molecular docking simulation. The in vitro PL inhibitory potential and the kinetics of inhibition were studied to validate and confirm the results obtained from molecular docking. The IC50 for PL was found to be 82.08 ± 9.47 μM, and the kinetics of inhibition was found to be of the mixed type. Further, the in vivo evaluation revealed that rats treated with plumbagin 1 mg/kg showed significant decrease in serum triglycerides (TG) and area under the curve of serum TG when compared with vehicle‐treated rats. It was also seen that plumbagin possessed significant antiadipogenic effect as demonstrated by reduced oil red O staining and decreased TG contents. Thus, we conclude that plumbagin is a promising molecule to combat obesity and further optimization of plumbagin to yield plumbagin analogues will result in its improved activity profile.
Electrocardiographic effects of hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) in healthy volunteers: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Trexler Stephanie E. , Nguyen Elaine , Gromek Samantha M. , Balunas Marcy J. , Baker William L.
Published: April 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the electrocardiographic effects of hawthorn in healthy adult volunteers. It was double‐blind cross‐over trial randomized 20 healthy adult volunteers to receive either a single oral 160‐mg dose of hawthorn or matching placebo. Triplicate 12‐lead electrocardiograms were taken before treatment and at 1‐, 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐hr post‐dose. Following at least a 7‐day washout period, participants were crossed over to the opposing treatment arm and had the measurements repeated. The primary endpoint was the change in corrected (Fridericia) QT intervals (QTcI) at 4 and 6 hr. Maximum post‐dose QTcI and changes in PR and QRS intervals were measured. No significant differences in 4‐ or 6‐hr QTcI were seen between hawthorn and placebo. Maximum post‐dose QTcI in the hawthorn and placebo groups were similar (346 ± 35 vs 346 ± 40 ms; p = .979). No significant adverse events were seen. In conclusion, a single dose of oral hawthorn had no effect on electrocardiographic parameters in healthy volunteers.
Rhubarb combined with trypsin inhibitor for severe acute pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hu Jing , Li Peilin , Zhang Tao
Published: April 2018

The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rhubarb combined with trypsin inhibitor for severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). This meta‐analysis was performed in accordance with the Transparent Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis protocol (PRISMA‐P) and Cochrane Handbook. Relevant studies from inception to 2016 were searched through 7 related databases. The Cochrane Library was searched to assess the bias of the included trials. Data were analysed with Review Manager 5.3 software. A total of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 912 participants with SAP were included in this meta‐analysis. The result showed that when compared with trypsin inhibitor used alone, rhubarb combined with trypsin inhibitor showed intensive effects on decreasing mortality, increasing overall efficacy, shorting length of hospitalization, reducing abdominal pain relief time, and decreasing the level of serum amylase. There was no serious adverse event reported in these RCTs. It should be noted that potential publication bias was observed. This meta‐analysis demonstrated that rhubarb combined with trypsin inhibitor could be an effective and safe treatment for patients with SAP. However, the small sample size and poor quality of these RCTs should be noted. And more rigorously designed, multicentre, large‐scale worldwide trials with more practitioners and higher quality are required.
Interaction of ascaridole, carvacrol, and caryophyllene oxide from essential oil of Chenopodium ambrosioides L. with mitochondria in Leishmania and other eukaryotes
Authors: Monzote Lianet , Geroldinger Gerald , Tonner Matthias , Scull Ramón , De Sarkar Sritama , Bergmann Sophie , Bacher Markus , Staniek Katrin , Chatterjee Mitali , Rosenau Thomas , Gille Lars
Published: April 2018

The antileishmanial activity of the essential oil (EO) from Chenopodium ambrosioides L. has been demonstrated in vitro and in animal models, attributed to the major components of the EO. This study focused on the effects of the three major EO compounds carvacrol, caryophyllene oxide (Caryo), and the antileishmanial endoperoxide ascaridole (Asc) on mitochondrial functions in Leishmania tarentolae promastigotes (LtP). EO and Caryo were able to partially inhibit the leishmanial electron transport chain, whereas other components failed to demonstrate a direct immediate effect. Caryo demonstrated inhibition of complex III activity in LtP and in isolated complex III from other species. The formation of superoxide radicals was studied in Leishmania by electron spin resonance spectroscopy in the presence of iron chelators wherein selected compounds failed to trigger a significant immediate additional superoxide production in LtP. However, upon prolonged incubation of Leishmania with Asc and especially in the absence of iron chelators (allowing the activation of Asc), an increased superoxide radical production and significant impairment of mitochondrial coupling in Leishmania was observed. Prolonged incubation with all EO components resulted in thiol depletion. Taken together, the major components of EO mediate their leishmanicidal activity via different mitochondrial targets and time profiles. Further studies are required to elucidate possible synergistic effects of carvacrol and Asc and the influence of minor compounds.
Barriers, challenges, conflicts, and facilitators in environmental decision‐making: A case of An'Yang Stream restoration
Authors: Hong C. , Chun H.
Published: April 2018

In this article, we discuss the An'Yang Stream restoration case in South Korea from the time frame of 1999–2015. This restoration has been judged as a successful stream management endeavour led by public–private partnership governance. However, this study found that integration of all interests was not properly achieved. The An'Yang Stream restoration process was designed by stakeholders who valued scientific information rather than non‐scientific factors such as culture, social learning (education), social integrity, and waterfront beautification based on a participatory process. The An'Yang Stream restoration project is important because it is one of the main streams in the metropolitan Seoul and serves as the focal point for the nation culturally, politically, and economically. The researchers conducted semistructured interviews with the 33 key stakeholders who actively participated in the stream restoration project. The axial coding based on Grounded Theory provided a clear way of adopting various codes and coding processes, which reflect the interview transcripts of the specific social phenomenon and power dynamics. This research describes the pros and cons of the An'Yang Stream restoration governance process and participatory decision‐making by applying a qualitative axial coding analysis. Also, this research addresses the contribution of media and professional conflict resolution for potentially participatory governance building.
Acoustically derived habitat associations of sympatric invasive bigheaded carps in a large river ecosystem
Authors: MacNamara R. , Coulter D. P. , Glover D. C. , Lubejko A. E. , Garvey J. E.
Published: April 2018

Bigheaded carp (Hypophthalmichthys spp.) occur throughout much of the Mississippi Basin, USA. Efforts to control the spread of these invasive species require information on their spatial ecology, though sampling is hindered by their broad extent, habitat tolerances, and species‐specific behaviour. Mobile hydroacoustics was used to quantify habitat and depth use of bigheaded carp over four years in the heavily invaded Lower Illinois River, a major Mississippi tributary and potential dispersal pathway to the Great Lakes. Horizontally oriented transducers (combined with capture gear for species designation) enabled sampling of the main habitat features in this large flood plain river. Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) were dominant over bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) at all but one site, although habitat use was similar for both species. Densities were highest in lotic backwaters, followed by lentic backwaters and nearshore main channel, with lowest densities in the mid main channel. Bigheaded carp size and species composition were independent of habitat type. Depth associations were similar for both species, with average occurrence at 2.5–3.5 m in the main channel and 1–2 m in backwaters. However, depth relative to the river bed was largely similar across habitat types. Bigheaded carp density and depth use in the main channel were linked non‐linearly to river discharge and water temperature, respectively; densities were reduced during high discharge, whereas depth use became shallower at higher temperatures. Density–hydrology trends were less apparent in backwaters. These findings highlight critical aspects of bigheaded carp spatial ecology that will facilitate effective management in invaded and at‐risk ecosystems.
Dynamic thresholds and a summary ROC curve: Assessing prognostic accuracy of longitudinal markers
Authors: Saha‐Chaudhuri P. , Heagerty P. J.
Published: April 2018

Cancer patients, chronic kidney disease patients, and subjects infected with HIV are routinely monitored over time using biomarkers that represent key health status indicators. Furthermore, biomarkers are frequently used to guide initiation of new treatments or to inform changes in intervention strategies. Since key medical decisions can be made on the basis of a longitudinal biomarker, it is important to evaluate the potential accuracy associated with longitudinal monitoring. To characterize the overall accuracy of a time‐dependent marker, we introduce a summary ROC curve that displays the overall sensitivity associated with a time‐dependent threshold that controls time‐varying specificity. The proposed statistical methods are similar to concepts considered in disease screening, yet our methods are novel in choosing a potentially time‐dependent threshold to define a positive test, and our methods allow time‐specific control of the false‐positive rate. The proposed summary ROC curve is a natural averaging of time‐dependent incident/dynamic ROC curves and therefore provides a single summary of net error rates that can be achieved in the longitudinal setting.
Thermoelectricity in Heterogeneous Nanofluidic Channels
Authors: Li Long , Wang Qinggong
Published: April 2018

Ionic fluids are essential to energy conversion, water desalination, drug delivery, and lab‐on‐a‐chip devices. Ionic transport in nanoscale confinements and complex physical fields still remain elusive. Here, a nanofluidic system is developed using nanochannels of heterogeneous surface properties to investigate transport properties of ions under different temperatures. Steady ionic currents are observed under symmetric temperature gradients, which is equivalent to generating electricity using waste heat (e.g., electronic chips and solar panels). The currents increase linearly with temperature gradient and nonlinearly with channel size. Contributions to ion motion from temperatures and channel properties are evaluated for this phenomenon. The findings provide insights into the study of confined ionic fluids in multiphysical fields, and suggest applications in thermal energy conversion, temperature sensors, and chip‐level thermal management.
Thermal Instability Induced Oriented 2D Pores for Enhanced Sodium Storage
Authors: Kong Lingjun , Xie Chen‐Chao , Gu Haichen , Wang Chao‐Peng , Zhou Xianlong , Liu Jian , Zhou Zhen , Li Zhao‐Yang , Zhu Jian , Bu Xian‐He
Published: April 2018

Hierarchical porous structures are highly desired for various applications. However, it is still challenging to obtain such materials with tunable architectures. Here, this paper reports hierarchical nanomaterials with oriented 2D pores by taking advantages of thermally instable bonds in vanadium‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). High‐temperature calcination of these MOFs accompanied by the loss of coordinated water molecules and other components enables the formation of orderly slit‐like 2D pores in vanadium oxide/porous carbon nanorods (VOx/PCs). This unique combination leads to an increase of the reactive surface area. In addition, optimized VOx/PCs demonstrate high‐rate capability and ultralong cycling life for sodium storage. The assembled full cells also show high capacity and cycling stability. This report provides an effective strategy for producing MOFs‐derived composites with hierarchical porous architectures for energy storage.
Fine particle matter disrupts the blood–testis barrier by activating TGF‐β3/p38 MAPK pathway and decreasing testosterone secretion in rat
Authors: Liu Jianhui , Ren Lihua , Wei Jialiu , Zhang Jin , Zhu Yupeng , Li Xiangyang , Jing Li , Duan Junchao , Zhou Xianqing , Sun Zhiwei
Published: April 2018

Fine particle matter (PM) is correlated with male reproductive dysfunction in animals and humans, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. To investigate the toxic mechanism of PM, 32 male Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to saline or PM2.5 with the doses of 1.8, 5.4, and 16.2 mg/kg.b.w. via intratracheal instillation, respectively, one time every 3 days, in total times for 30 days. Sperm concentration, hormone level, the expressions of BTB‐associated protein and the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, tumor necrosis factor α and transforming growth factor β3 levels were detected. The results showed a decrease in sperm number, testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels and altered ultrastructure of BTB in testis of rat after exposure to PM2.5. The protein levels of N‐Cadherin, Occludin, Claudin‐11, and Connexin‐43 were significantly decreased in the testes. TGF‐β3 content in testes showed increase, with the p‐p38/p38 MAPK ratio also increasing after PM2.5 exposure. These results demonstrate that PM2.5 restrained the expressions of BTB‐associated proteins through activating TGF‐β3/p38 MAPK pathway and decreasing testosterone secretion, and therefore lead to the damage of BTB resulting in the decrease of sperm quality, which might be the potential reasons for its negative effects on spermatogenesis and male reproduction.
Visitor effects on a zoo population of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) and harbor seals (Phoca vitulina)
Authors: de Vere Amber J.
Published: April 2018

The effects of visitor presence on zoo and aquarium animals have become increasingly well studied, using measures such as behavioral responses and exhibit usage. Many taxa remain underrepresented in this literature; this is the case for marine mammals, despite widespread public concern for their welfare in managed care settings. The current study therefore used behavioral activity budgets and exhibit usage to assess the responses of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) and harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) to visitors at the Seal Cove exhibit at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo CA. Data was collected via focal follow video recordings over the summer season of 2016, and analyzed using MANCOVAs, discriminant analyses, and modified Spread of Participation Indices. The sea lions showed no significant changes in behavior when visitors were present, but did show greater preference for the water bordering visitor viewing areas during these times. Two sea lions gave birth during the study period, and showed greater preference for land areas both adjacent to and out of sight of visitors when nursing compared to while pregnant. In contrast, the harbor seals showed significant behavioral changes in the presence of visitors, including increased vigilance and feeding. This was associated with increased preferential use of water areas adjacent to the visitor viewing area. Visitors were able to purchase fish to throw to the animals, which likely contributed to the differences observed. Overall, this study found little evidence for negative visitor impacts on two pinniped species in a zoo setting.
Energy flow polynomials: a complete linear basis for jet substructure
Authors: Komiske Patrick T. , Metodiev Eric M. , Thaler Jesse
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We introduce the energy flow polynomials: a complete set of jet substructure observables which form a discrete linear basis for all infrared- and collinear-safe observables. Energy flow polynomials are multiparticle energy correlators with specific angular structures that are a direct consequence of infrared and collinear safety. We establish a powerful graph-theoretic representation of the energy flow polynomials which allows us to design efficient algorithms for their computation. Many common jet observables are exact linear combinations of energy flow polynomials, and we demonstrate the linear spanning nature of the energy flow basis by performing regression for several common jet observables. Using linear classification with energy flow polynomials, we achieve excellent performance on three representative jet tagging problems: quark/gluon discrimination, boosted W tagging, and boosted top tagging. The energy flow basis provides a systematic framework for complete investigations of jet substructure using linear methods.
Results of Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Schwameis Katrin , Nikolic Milena , Morales Castellano Deivis G. , Steindl Ariane , Macheck Sarah , Kristo Ivan , Zörner Barbara , Schoppmann Sebastian F.
Published: April 2018

Background

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) is a modern treatment option for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); however, laparoscopic fundoplication remains the gold standard. The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes of MSA patients at a reflux center.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients that underwent MSA between March 2012 and November 2017. Out of 110 patients, 68 with a follow‐up >3 months were included. Postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) intake, GERD‐Health‐related Quality of Life (GERD‐HRQL) and alimentary satisfaction (AS) were assessed. Postoperative esophageal functioning tests were performed in 50% of patients.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients underwent MSA; hiatal repair was performed in 31 cases. The median OR time was 27 min, and no intraoperative complications occurred. The median follow‐up was 13 months (IQR 4.2–45). Endoscopic dilatation was performed in 2 patients (3%) and device removal in another 2 cases. The postoperative GERD‐HRQL score was significantly reduced (3 vs. 24; p < 0.001) and the median AS was 8/10. Preoperative experienced heartburn, regurgitations and dysphagia were eliminated in 92, 96 and 100%. Postoperative new‐onset difficulties swallowing with solids only were reported to occur occasionally by 16% and rarely by 21% of patients. Satisfaction with heartburn relief was 95%, and the overall outcome was rated excellent/good in 89%. PPI dependency was eliminated in 87%. The median total percentage pH < 4 and number of reflux episodes were significantly reduced. Postoperative pH results were negative or slightly above the norm in 79% and 12%, respectively.

Conclusion

Sphincter augmentation results in significantly reduced reflux symptoms, increased GERD‐specific Quality of Life and excellent alimentary satisfaction with low perioperative morbidity. This procedure should be considered an excellent alternative to fundoplication in the treatment of GERD.
A Nationwide Assessment of Pediatric Surgical Capacity in Mongolia
Authors: Goodman Laura F. , Chuluun Erdenetsetseg , Sanjaa Burmaa , Urjin Sanchin , Erdene Sarnai , Khad Narantuya , Jamiyanjav Adiyasuren , Stephenson Jacob , Farmer Diana L.
Published: April 2018

Background

Mongolia is a country characterized by its vast distances and extreme climate. An underdeveloped medical transport infrastructure makes patient transfer from outlying regions dangerous. Providing pediatric surgical care locally is crucial to improve the lives of children in the countryside. This is the first structured assessment of nationwide pediatric surgical capacity.

Methods

Operation rates were calculated using data from the Mongolian Center for Health Development and population data from the Mongolian Statistical Information Service. The Pediatric Personnel, Infrastructure, Procedures, Equipment, and Supplies (PediPIPES) survey tool was used to collect data at all survey sites. Descriptive data analyses were completed using Excel. Studies of association were completed using Stata. All reported percentages are of the hospitals outside of the capital (n = 21).

Results

All provincial hospitals have general surgeons; seven (33.3%) of them have pediatric surgeon(s). One facility has no anesthesiologist. All facilities perform basic procedures and provide anesthesia. Four (19%) can treat common congenital anomalies. All facilities have basic operating room equipment. Nine hospitals do not have pulse oximetry available. Twelve hospitals do not have pediatric surgical instruments always available. Pediatric supplies are lacking.

Conclusions

Provincial hospitals in Mongolia can perform basic procedures. However, essential pediatric supplies are lacking. Consequently, certain life‐saving procedures are not available to children outside of the capital. Only a few improvements would be amendable to low‐cost process improvement adjustment, and the majority of needs require resource additions. Procedure, equipment, and supply availability should be further explored to develop a comprehensive nationwide pediatric surgical program.