bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effect of a reproductive‐related serpin on sperm trypsin‐like activity implicates its role in sperm maturation of Penaeus monodon
Authors: Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Santimanawong Wanida , Sobhon Prasert , Wongtripop Somjai , Vanichviriyakit Rapeepun
Published: January 2018

In a number of marine animals, sperm serine proteases are important for fertilization. Penaeus monodon sperm require trypsin‐like activity for a complete acrosome reaction, which exclusively occurs in sperm residing in the female thelycum. In this study, a complete cDNA sequence of reproductive tract‐related Serine protease inhibitor (rrPmserpin) was identified. The longest open reading frame was composed of 1,366 nucleotides encoding 402 amino acids with a predicted pI of 6.86 and molecular mass of 44.88 kDa. The signal peptide cleavage site was identified as the 17th amino acid residue in the amino‐terminus, and two potential N‐glycosylation sites were predicted as post‐translation modifications. A conserved reactive loop and fold similarities, identified through three‐dimensional modeling, suggested that this gene is a member of the serpin family. The expression of rrPmserpin mRNA was prominent in the reproductive organs, including the testis, vas deferens, terminal ampoule containing the spermatophore, and the female thelycum. Inhibitory activity of recombinant rrPmSERPIN‐6His was revealed from the negative correlation between the abundance of rrPmserpin mRNA and sperm trypsin‐like activities, along with its inhibitory effects on chymotrypsin, trypsin, and thelycal proteases. Therefore, our results suggest that rrPmserpin participates in the regulation of the activity of a sperm protease and the decapacitation process.
Women's situation‐specific strategies in managing participation restrictions due to early rheumatoid arthritis: A gender comparison
Authors: Östlund Gunnel , Björk Mathilda , Thyberg Ingrid , Valtersson Eva , Sverker Annette
Published: January 2018

Introduction

The present study explored how women describe their use of situation‐specific strategies when managing rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim was also to compare women's strategies with those of men, and see the extent to which they used the same strategies.

Methods

The data were collected using semi‐structured interviews based on the critical incident technique. The sample consisted of women with early rheumatic arthritis (n = 34), and the results were compared with data reported in a previous study on men (n = 25) from the same cohort. The patient‐described participation restrictions due to RA were firstly linked to the domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). The different strategies used were then categorized. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden.

Results

The study found that women used four situation‐specific strategies: adjustment, avoidance, interaction and acceptance. The same strategies had been found previously in interviews with men with RA. Women and men used these strategies to a similar extent in the ICF domains of mobility; major life arenas; domestic life; interpersonal interactions and relationships; and community, social and civic life. However, some differences were found, relating to the reported activities in self‐care and domestic life, in which women reported using strategies to a greater extent than men.

Conclusions

Women and men used four types of situation‐specific strategies in managing RA; adjustment, avoidance, interaction and acceptance. These situation‐specific strategies provide useful knowledge, in terms of multidisciplinary rehabilitation and for patients' significant others.
Aging impairs regulation of ryanodine receptors from extensor digitorum longus but not soleus muscles
Authors: Gaboardi Angela J. , Kressler Jochen , Snow Teresa K. , Balog Edward M.
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Because impaired excitation‐contraction coupling and reduced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release may contribute to the age‐associated decline in skeletal muscle strength, we investigated the effect of aging on regulation of the skeletal muscle isoform of the ryanodine receptor (RyR1) by physiological channel ligands. Methods: [3H]Ryanodine binding to membranes from 8‐ and 26‐month‐old Fischer 344 extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles was used to investigate the effects of age on RyR1 modulation by Ca2+ and calmodulin (CaM). Results: Aging reduced maximal Ca2+‐stimulated binding to EDL membranes. In 0.3 μM Ca2+, age reduced binding and CaM increased binding to EDL membranes. In 300 μM Ca2+, CaM reduced binding, but the age effect was not significant. Aging did not affect Ca2+ or CaM regulation of soleus RyR1. Discussion: In aged fast‐twitch muscle, impaired RyR1 Ca2+ regulation may contribute to lower SR Ca2+ release and reduced muscle function. Muscle Nerve 57: 1022–1025, 2018
Hybrid parallel multigrid preconditioner based on automatic mesh coarsening for 3D metal forming simulations
Authors: Vi Frederic , Mocellin Katia , Digonnet Hugues , Perchat Etienne , Fourment Lionel
Published: January 2018

A parallel multigrid (MG) method is developed to reduce the large computational costs involved by the finite element simulation of highly viscous fluid flows, especially those resulting from metal forming applications, which are characterized by using a mixed velocity/pressure implicit formulation, unstructured meshes of tetrahedra, and frequent remeshings. The developed MG method follows a hybrid approach where the different levels of nonnested meshes are geometrically constructed by mesh coarsening, while the linear systems of the intermediate levels result from the Galerkin algebraic approach. A linear O(N) convergence rate is expected (with N being the number of unknowns), while keeping software parallel efficiency. These objectives lead to selecting unusual MG smoothers (iterative solvers) for the upper grid levels and to developing parallel mesh coarsening algorithms along with parallel transfer operators between the different levels of partitioned meshes. Within the utilized PETSc library, the developed MG method is employed as a preconditioner for the usual conjugate residual algorithm because of the symmetric undefinite matrix of the system to solve. It shows a convergence rate close to optimal, an excellent parallel efficiency, and the ability to handle the complex forming problems encountered in 3‐dimensional hot forging, which involve large material deformations and frequent remeshings.
Modifiable correlates of illness perceptions in adults with chronic somatic conditions: A systematic review
Authors: Arat Seher , De Cock Diederik , Moons Philip , Vandenberghe Joris , Westhovens René
Published: January 2018

When individuals become ill, they want to understand and give meaning to their illness. The interpretation of this illness experience, or illness perception, is influenced by a range of individual, contextual, and cultural factors. Some of these factors may be modifiable by nursing interventions. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate which modifiable factors were correlated with illness perceptions across studies of adults with different chronic somatic diseases. Using search terms tailored to each of four electronic databases, studies retrieved were reviewed by two independent evaluators, and each relevant article was assessed for methodological quality. Results were standardized by calculating correlation coefficients. Fifteen papers on illness perceptions in a variety of chronic diseases met the inclusion criteria. All used standardized measures of illness perceptions. We identified five groups of modifiable correlates of illness perceptions: illness‐related factors, psychosocial factors, medication beliefs, information provision and satisfaction with information received, and quality of care. Our findings add to the knowledge of modifiable factors correlated with illness perceptions, including the importance of illness‐related factors and psychosocial factors such as anxiety and depression. Knowledge of these correlates can facilitate understanding of patients' illness perceptions and might be useful in tailoring patient education programs.
Associations of Sodium and Potassium with Obesity Measures Among Diverse US Hispanic/Latino Adults: Results from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Elfassy Tali , Mossavar‐Rahmani Yasmin , Van Horn Linda , Gellman Marc , Sotres‐Alvarez Daniela , Schneiderman Neil , Daviglus Martha , Beasley Jeannette M , Llabre Maria M. , Shaw Pamela A. , Prado Guillermo , Florez Hermes , Zeki Al Hazzouri Adina
Published: January 2018

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate cross‐sectional associations of sodium and potassium with BMI, waist circumference (WC), and body fat and to determine whether the nativity and/or duration of United States (US) residence modified these associations.

Methods

Sodium and potassium were derived from 24‐hour diet recalls from 16,156 US participants of the 2008 to 2011 Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) and from 24‐hour urine in 447 HCHS/SOL participants. BMI, WC, and body fat were measured.

Results

Dietary sodium that was 500 mg/d higher was cross‐sectionally associated with a 0.07‐kg/m2 higher BMI (P < 0.05) and a 0.18‐cm larger WC (P = 0.04). Dietary potassium that was 500 mg/d higher was only associated with lower BMI and smaller WC among those who were foreign‐born with 10 + years in the US (−0.13 kg/m2, P < 0.01 and −0.36 cm, P = 0.01, respectively) and among those who were US‐born (−0.62 kg/m2, P < 0.01 and −1.42 cm, P < 0.01, respectively). Urinary sodium that was 500 mg/d higher was associated with a 0.27‐kg/m2 higher BMI (P < 0.01) and 0.54 kg more body fat (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Sodium intake was associated with higher BMI, WC, and body fat. Potassium intake was associated with lower BMI and smaller WC among US‐born participants and participants with a longer duration of US residence.
Optimal portfolio of continuous‐time mean‐variance model with futures and options
Authors: Yan Wei
Published: January 2018

This paper is concerned with the portfolio selection of options that have different sale and purchase prices based on the continuous‐time mean‐variance criterion in financial markets. The optimal investment problem is formulated as a continuous‐time mathematical model. These price processes follow jump‐diffusion processes (the Weiner process and the Poisson process). With the theory of stochastic linear‐quadratic control and viscosity solutions, the corresponding Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation of the problem is represented and its solutions are obtained in different conditions. The optimal investment strategies are presented. In addition, the efficient frontier is also illustrated. Finally, an example and some discussions illustrating these results are also presented.
Preparation of phosphorus‐containing phenolic resin and its application in epoxy resin as a curing agent and flame retardant
Authors: Deng Peng , Liu Yuansen , Liu Yuan , Xu Changan , Wang Qi
Published: January 2018

For the sake of improving the flame retardancy of epoxy resin (EP), a novel phosphorus‐containing phenolic resin (PPR) synthesized in our group instead of conventional phenolic resin (PR) was used to cure EP in the present research. The curing processes and the corresponding crosslinking structure and mechanical performance were investigated by differential scanning calorimeter and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. Because of the introduction of flame‐retarding elements including P and Si, PPR exhibited higher charring capacity in the condensed phase, which is helpful to construct a char layer of higher quality. Correspondingly, PPR‐cured EP displayed remarkably improved flame retardance as compared to conventional PR‐cured EP through the related evaluations including limiting oxygen index, vertical burning test, and microscale combustion colorimeter. As a multifunction agent, it is believable that PPR possesses potential commercial value to prepare flame‐retardant EP with high performance.
Electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness and microwave absorption properties of thermoplastic polyurethane/montmorillonite‐polypyrrole nanocomposites
Authors: Ramoa Sílvia D. A. S. , Barra Guilherme M. O. , Merlini Claudia , Livi Sébastien , Soares Bluma G. , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: January 2018

In this work, thermoplastic polyurethane‐filled montmorillonite‐polypyrrole (TPU/Mt‐PPy) was prepared through melt mixing process for using in electromagnetic shielding applications. The effect of conducting filler content and type, sample thickness, and X‐band frequency range on the electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) and EMI attenuation mechanism was investigated. A comparative study of electrical and microwave absorption properties of TPU/Mt‐PPy nanocomposites and TPU/PPy blends was also reported. The total EMI SE average and electrical conductivity of all Mt‐PPy.Cl or Mt‐PPy.DBSA nanocomposites are higher than those found for TPU/PPy.Cl and TPU/PPy.DBSA blends. This behavior was attributed to the higher aspect ratio and better dispersion of the nanostructured Mt‐PPy when compared with neat PPy. Moreover, the presence of Mt‐PPy into TPU matrix increases absorption loss (SEA) mechanism, contributing to increase EMI SE. The total EMI SE values of nanocomposites containing 30 wt% of Mt‐PPy.DBSA with 2 and 5 mm thickness were approximately 16.6 and approximately 36.5 dB, respectively, corresponding to the total EMI of 98% (75% by absorption) and 99.9% (88% by absorption). These results highlight that the nanocomposites studied are promising materials for electromagnetic shielding applications.
Effectiveness of antibacterial prophylaxis during induction chemotherapy in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Sulis M.L. , Blonquist T.M. , Stevenson K.E. , Hunt S.K. , Kay‐Green S. , Athale U.H. , Clavell L.A. , Cole P.D. , Kelly K.M. , Laverdiere C. , Leclerc J.M. , Michon B. , Schorin M.A. , Welch J.G. , Neuberg D.S. , Sallan S.E. , Silverman L.B.
Published: January 2018

Background

Pediatric patients receiving induction chemotherapy for newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at high risk of developing life‐threatening infections. We investigated whether uniform antibacterial guidelines, including mandatory antibacterial prophylaxis in afebrile patients during induction, decreases the incidence of microbiologically documented bacteremia.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2015, 230 patients with newly diagnosed ALL (aged 1–21) were enrolled on Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute ALL Consortium Protocol 11‐001 (DFCI 11‐001). Induction therapy, regardless of risk group, included vincristine, prednisone, doxorubicin, methotrexate, and PEG‐asparaginase. Afebrile patients received fluoroquinolone prophylaxis at the initiation of induction and those presenting with fever received broad‐spectrum antibiotics; antibiotics were continued until blood count recovery. Rates of documented bacteremias and fungal infections on DFCI 11‐001 were compared to those on the predecessor protocol (DFCI 05‐001), which included the same induction phase without antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines.

Results

Sixty‐six (28.7%) patients received fluoroquinolone prophylaxis, the remaining patients received broad‐spectrum antibiotics. Twenty‐four (36.4%) patients on prophylaxis developed fever and seven (10.6%) developed bacteremia. The overall rate of infection during induction on DFCI 11‐001 was lower than on DFCl 05‐001 (14.3% vs. 26.3%, P < 0.0001) due to a decreased rate of bacteremia (10.9% vs. 24.4%, P < 0.0001). The rate of fungal infections (4.8% vs. 3.6%) and induction death (0.9% vs. 2%) was not significantly different.

Conclusion

For children with newly diagnosed ALL, uniform antibiotic administration until blood count recovery, including fluoroquinolone prophylaxis for afebrile patients, reduced the incidence of bacteremia during the induction phase. Larger, randomized studies should be performed to confirm these findings.
Proper use of social media by health operators in the pediatric oncohematological setting: Consensus statement from the Italian Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Association (AIEOP)
Authors: Clerici Carlo Alfredo , Quarello Paola , Bergadano Anna , Veneroni Laura , Bertolotti Marina , Guadagna Paola , Ricci Angelo , Galdi Andrea , Fagioli Franca , Ferrari Andrea
Published: January 2018

Social media are powerful means of communication that can also have an important role in the healthcare sector. They are sometimes seen with diffidence in the healthcare setting, partly because they risk blurring professional boundaries. This issue is particularly relevant to relations between caregivers and adolescent patients. The Italian Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Association created a multidisciplinary working group to develop some shared recommendations on this issue. After reviewing the literature, the working group prepared a consensus statement in an effort to suggest an analytical approach rather than restrictive rules.
Effect of carbon nanotube grafting on the wettability and average mechanical properties of carbon fiber/polymer multiscale composites
Authors: Bedi Harpreet Singh , Padhee Srikant S. , Agnihotri Prabhat K.
Published: January 2018

An experimental investigation is performed to relate the wetting behavior of unsized and carbon nanotube (CNT) grafted carbon fibers to the average mechanical properties of unsized and CNT grafted carbon fiber/polymer multiscale composites. Contact angle measurements and single fiber pull out tests show that the choice of polymer matrix plays a crucial role in determining whether the incorporation of CNTs on the fiber surface enhances or degrades the wettability and hence average mechanical properties of carbon fiber/polymer composites. CNT grafting leads to a significant improvement in interfacial shear strength as well as flexural and tensile response of carbon fiber/polymer composites with the epoxy resin. However, incorporation of CNTs on fiber surface has no significant effect on the average mechanical properties of carbon fiber/polyester composites. Moreover, it is recorded that the relative enhancement in properties after CNT grafting depends on the fiber orientation in CNT grafted carbon fiber/epoxy composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1184–E1195, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical characterization of carbon fiber reinforced plastics specimens for aerospace applications
Authors: Barile C. , Casavola C.
Published: January 2018

The use of new Composites Fibers Reinforced Plastics materials for structural applications in aerospace industry is fast increasing in the last years. Ensuring high performances requires a deep knowledge of the mechanical behavior of the composite components subjected to different workloads. Components are subjected to strict environmental conditions that are typical of flight settings, as cold temperature and/or elevated temperature close to engines. In the typical assembly of composites, multiple layers are stacked together with a given sequence. Layers could be organized with different angles, different sequences and different technological process for providing specific mechanical properties that need to be studied. The possibility to introduce new parameters, able to improve mechanical properties of composites is also investigated. It refers to an unconventional fibers orientation combined with the through‐the‐thickness stitching on the in‐plane mechanical properties of composites. Conventional carbon fibers orientation is generally referred to a Cartesian coordinate system, in which fibers are arranging in bundles along different angle orientations respect to the zero lamina. The opportunity to use a polar coordinate system of continues carbon tow is introduced to create specimens as well as complex geometry components easily. The application of this technique aims to introduce some advantages in the material's manufacturing process and if compared with the conventional strategy seems to be very promising since it appears to be very efficient in stopping delamination phenomenon. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:716–722, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Conflict of interest related to clinical practice is underreported: The case of noninvasive prenatal testing
Authors: Wolfberg Adam J.
Published: January 2018

Authors of policy statements from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and from the Society for Maternal‐Fetal Medicine do not acknowledge the potential for their clinical income to influence their opinions, or the positions of the societies they represent. These policy statements were published in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, again, without acknowledgment of the potential for conflict of interest. The case of noninvasive prenatal testing, which has threatened the role of maternal‐fetal medicine in the practice of prenatal screening and diagnosis, and has significantly reduced the demand for invasive prenatal diagnosis, illustrates the importance of identifying this potential conflict.
ACOG and SMFM guidelines for prenatal diagnosis: Is karyotyping really sufficient?
Authors: Hay Sara B. , Sahoo Trilochan , Travis Mary K. , Hovanes Karine , Dzidic Natasa , Doherty Charles , Strecker Michelle N.
Published: January 2018

What's already known about this topic?

Current professional guidelines regarding the use of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) versus karyotyping in prenatal diagnosis support CMA over karyotype only when fetal structural abnormalities are present.

Examination of the clinical utility of these guidelines, given advances in microarray technology and prenatal screening, is largely unaddressed.

What does this study add?

This study demonstrates the diagnostic superiority of CMA by SNP microarray compared with karyotyping for prenatal diagnosis, regardless of the clinical indication for testing.
Tamsulosin and the risk of dementia in older men with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Duan Yinghui , Grady James J. , Albertsen Peter C. , Helen Wu Z.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Clinicians use tamsulosin, an α1‐adrenoceptor antagonist, to manage symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Because α1‐adrenoceptors are also present in the brain, the potential exists for adverse effects on cognitive functions. We explored the association between tamsulosin use and dementia risk.

Methods

We used Medicare data (2006–2012) to conduct a cohort study among patients aged ≥65 years and diagnosed with BPH. Men taking tamsulosin (n = 253 136) were matched at a 1:1 ratio using propensity‐scores to each of 6 comparison cohorts: patients who used no BPH‐medication (n = 180 926), and patients who used the following alternative‐BPH‐medications: doxazosin (n = 28 581), terazosin (n = 23 858), alfuzosin (n = 17 934), dutasteride (n = 34 027), and finasteride (n = 38 767). Assessment began following the first fill of BPH‐medication to identify incident dementia by ICD‐9 diagnosis codes. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dementia using Cox proportional hazard regression for each of the 6 propensity‐score‐matched cohort‐pairs.

Results

The median follow‐up period for all cohorts was 19.8 months. After propensity‐score matching, the tamsulosin cohort had an incidence of dementia of 31.3/1000 person‐years compared with only 25.9/1000 person‐years in the no‐BPH‐medication cohort. The risk of dementia was significantly higher in the tamsulosin cohort, when compared with the no‐BPH‐medication cohort (HR [95% CI]: 1.17 [1.14, 1.21]) and each of the alternative‐BPH‐medication cohorts: doxazosin (1.20 [1.12, 1.28]), terazosin (1.11 [1.04, 1.19]), alfuzosin (1.12 [1.03, 1.22]), dutasteride (1.26 [1.19, 1.34]), and finasteride (1.13 [1.07, 1.19]). The significance of these findings persisted in sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Tamsulosin may increase the risk of dementia in older men with BPH.
Considerations for Optimal Blood Pressure Goals in the Elderly Population: A Review of Emergent Evidence
Authors: Cao Diana X. , Tran Rebecca J. C.
Published: January 2018

Recent hypertension clinical trials and national guideline updates have created a debate on the most appropriate treatment goals in elderly patients with hypertension. In 2014, recommendations by the Eighth Joint National Committee allowed a more lenient goal for patients 60 years and older compared with previous guidelines. Since then, several large clinical trials and meta‐analyses have added more information regarding strict versus lenient treatment goals. Most recently, the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association Task Force published their highly anticipated hypertension guideline developed in conjunction with nine additional interdisciplinary organizations. This review discusses the culmination of emerging data to provide more insight into the treatment of hypertension in the elderly. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health, the Cochrane database, and by hand‐searching references from relevant articles. The following key terms were used: hypertension, blood pressure, systolic, and elderly. Available literature suggests that it is reasonable to target an office systolic blood pressure of less than 130 mm Hg in elderly patients with hypertension. An individualized approach is reasonable for those who are institutionalized, with high comorbidity burden, or have a short life expectancy. A diastolic blood pressure of less than 60 mm Hg should be avoided due to the potential for an increase in cardiovascular risk. The method of blood pressure measurement is extremely important to consider when determining the blood pressure goal, and proper procedures for accurate blood pressure measurement must be followed. Other factors important to consider may include the patient's comorbidities, frailty, as well as the patient's potential for adverse drug reactions.
Metaproteomics of Colonic Microbiota Unveils Discrete Protein Functions among Colitic Mice and Control Groups
Authors: Moon Clara , Stupp Gregory S. , Su Andrew I. , Wolan Dennis W.
Published: January 2018

Metaproteomics can greatly assist established high‐throughput sequencing methodologies to provide systems biological insights into the alterations of microbial protein functionalities correlated with disease‐associated dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota. Here, the authors utilize the well‐characterized murine T cell transfer model of colitis to find specific changes within the intestinal luminal proteome associated with inflammation. MS proteomic analysis of colonic samples permitted the identification of ≈10 000–12 000 unique peptides that corresponded to 5610 protein clusters identified across three groups, including the colitic Rag1−/− T cell recipients, isogenic Rag1−/− controls, and wild‐type mice. The authors demonstrate that the colitic mice exhibited a significant increase in Proteobacteria and Verrucomicrobia and show that such alterations in the microbial communities contributed to the enrichment of specific proteins with transcription and translation gene ontology terms. In combination with 16S sequencing, the authors' metaproteomics‐based microbiome studies provide a foundation for assessing alterations in intestinal luminal protein functionalities in a robust and well‐characterized mouse model of colitis, and set the stage for future studies to further explore the functional mechanisms of altered protein functionalities associated with dysbiosis and inflammation.
Ring‐expansion polymerization of meso‐lactide catalyzed by dibutyltin derivatives
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans Rytger , Weidner Steffen M.
Published: January 2018

Meso‐Lactide was polymerized in bulk at 60, 80, and 100 °C by means of three different types of catalysts: dibutyltin sulfides (2,2‐dibutyl‐2‐stanna‐1,3‐dithiolane and 2,2′‐dibutyl‐2‐stanna‐1,3‐dithiane), dibutyltin derivatives of substituted catechols (BuCa, CyCa, and BzCa), and dibutyltin derivatives of 2,2′dihydroxybiphenyl (SnBi) and 2,2′‐dihydroxy‐1,1′‐binaphthyl (SnNa). Only the latter two catalysts were active at 60 °C. The architecture of the resulting polylactides depends very much on the structure of the catalyst and on the temperature. At the lowest temperature (60 °C), SnBi and SnNa mainly yielded even‐numbered linear chains, but SnNa also yielded even‐numbered cycles at 100 °C and short reaction times. In contrast, BuCa, CyCa, and BzCa mainly yielded odd‐numbered cycles, although the same catalysts yielded even‐numbered linear chains when benzylalcohol was added. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 749–759
Predictors of emotional distress a year or more after diagnosis of cancer: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Cook Sharon A. , Salmon Peter , Hayes Gemma , Byrne Angela , Fisher Peter L.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Why some people recover emotionally after diagnosis and treatment of cancer and others do not is poorly understood. To identify factors around the time of diagnosis that predict longer‐term distress is a necessary step in developing interventions to reduce patients' vulnerability. This review identified the demographic, clinical, social, and psychological factors available at or within 3 months of diagnosis that are reliable predictors of emotional distress at least 12 months later.

Methods

A systematic search of literature for prospective studies addressing our research question and predicting a range of distress outcomes was conducted. Thirty‐nine papers (reporting 36 studies) were subjected to narrative synthesis of the evidence.

Results

There was no consistent evidence that demographic, clinical, or social factors reliably predicted longer‐term distress. Of the psychological factors examined, only baseline distress (significant in 26 of 30 relevant papers; 24 of 28 studies) and neuroticism (significant in all 5 papers/studies that examined it) consistently predicted longer‐term distress. The heterogeneity of included studies, particularly in populations studied and methodology, precluded meta‐analytic techniques.

Conclusions

This review supports current clinical guidance advising early assessment of distress as a marker of vulnerability to persistent problems. Additionally, neuroticism is also indicated as a useful marker of vulnerability. However, the review also highlights that more sophisticated research designs, capable of identifying the psychological processes that underlie the association between these marker variables and persistent distress, are needed before more effective early interventions can be developed.
Longitudinal assessment of lung function in extremely prematurely born children
Authors: Lo Jessica , Zivanovic Sanja , Lunt Alan , Alcazar‐Paris Mireia , Andradi Gwendolyn , Thomas Mark , Marlow Neil , Calvert Sandy , Peacock Janet , Greenough Anne
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To assess longitudinally small airway function in children born extremely prematurely and whether there was a correlation between airway function in infancy and at 11‐14 years.

Working Hypotheses

There would be tracking of airways obstruction and small airway function would deteriorate during childhood in those born extremely prematurely.

Study Design

A longitudinal study.

Patient‐Subject Selection

Thirty‐five children with a mean gestational age of 26 weeks had lung function assessed at 1 year corrected and 11‐14 years of age.

Methodology

Lung volumes were measured by helium gas dilution (FRCHe) and plethysmography (FRCpleth) and small airway function assessed by calculating the FRCHe:FRCpleth ratio. Airway function was assessed at 1 year corrected by measurement of airway resistance (Raw) and at 11‐14 years by assessment of Raw, forced expiratory flow from 75% of vital capacity (FEF75), and forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1).

Results

At the first assessment, the children had a mean (SD) FRCHe:FRCpleth of 0.90 (0.13) and at the second, 0.83 (0.12) (P = 0.035). There was a significant 0.54% decrease (95%CI: −1.02%, −0.06%) in FRCHe:FRCpleth for increased age per year after adjusting for birth weight, gestational age, sex, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (P = 0.027). There were significant correlations between Raw at the first assessment and Raw (P = 0.012), FEF75 (P = 0.034), and FEV1 (P = 0.04) at 11‐14 years.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate in those born extremely prematurely there is tracking of airway function during childhood.
Prostatectomy‐based validation of combined urine and plasma test for predicting high grade prostate cancer
Authors: Albitar Maher , Ma Wanlong , Lund Lars , Shahbaba Babak , Uchio Edward , Feddersen Søren , Moylan Donald , Wojno Kirk , Shore Neal
Published: January 2018

Background

Distinguishing between low‐ and high‐grade prostate cancers (PCa) is important, but biopsy may underestimate the actual grade of cancer. We have previously shown that urine/plasma‐based prostate‐specific biomarkers can predict high grade PCa. Our objective was to determine the accuracy of a test using cell‐free RNA levels of biomarkers in predicting prostatectomy results.

Methods

This multicenter community‐based prospective study was conducted using urine/blood samples collected from 306 patients. All recruited patients were treatment‐naïve, without metastases, and had been biopsied, designated a Gleason Score (GS) based on biopsy, and assigned to prostatectomy prior to participation in the study. The primary outcome measure was the urine/plasma test accuracy in predicting high grade PCa on prostatectomy compared with biopsy findings. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated using standard formulas, while comparisons between groups were performed using the Wilcoxon Rank Sum, Kruskal‐Wallis, Chi‐Square, and Fisher's exact test.

Results

GS as assigned by standard 10‐12 core biopsies was 3 + 3 in 90 (29.4%), 3 + 4 in 122 (39.8%), 4 + 3 in 50 (16.3%), and > 4 + 3 in 44 (14.4%) patients. The urine/plasma assay confirmed a previous validation and was highly accurate in predicting the presence of high‐grade PCa (Gleason ≥3 + 4) with sensitivity between 88% and 95% as verified by prostatectomy findings. GS was upgraded after prostatectomy in 27% of patients and downgraded in 12% of patients.

Conclusions

This plasma/urine biomarker test accurately predicts high grade cancer as determined by prostatectomy with a sensitivity at 92‐97%, while the sensitivity of core biopsies was 78%.
Crystal structure of tetrameric human Rabin8 GEF domain
Authors: Vetter Melanie , Boegholm Niels , Christensen Anni , Bhogaraju Sagar , Andersen Marie B. , Lorentzen Anna , Lorentzen Esben
Published: January 2018

Rab GTPases and their effectors, activators and guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) are essential for vesicular transport. Rab8 and its GEF Rabin8 function in formation of the cilium organelle important for developmental signaling and sensory reception. Here, we show by size exclusion chromatography and analytical ultracentrifugation that Rabin8 exists in equilibrium between dimers and tetramers. The crystal structure of tetrameric Rabin8 GEF domain reveals an occluded Rab8 binding site suggesting that this oligomer is enzymatically inactive, a notion we verify experimentally using Rabin8/Rab8 GEF assays. We outline a procedure for the purification of active dimeric Rabin8 GEF‐domain for in vitro activity assays.
Antifeedant effect of polygodial and drimenol derivatives against Spodoptera frugiperda and Epilachna paenulata and quantitative structure‐activity analysis
Authors: Montenegro Iván J , del Corral Soledad , Diaz Napal Georgina N , Carpinella María C , Mellado Marco , Madrid Alejandro M , Villena Joan , Palacios Sara M , Cuellar Mauricio A
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

The antifeedant activity of 18 sesquiterpenoids of the drimane family (polygodial, drimenol and derivatives) was investigated.

RESULTS

Polygodial, drimanic and nordrimanic derivatives were found to exert antifeedant effects against two insect species, Spodoptera frugiperda and Epilachna paenulata, which are pests of agronomic interest, indicating that they have potential as biopesticide agents. Among the 18 compounds tested, the epoxynordrimane compound (11) and isonordrimenone (4) showed the highest activity [50% effective concentration (EC50) = 23.28 and 25.63 nmol cm−2, respectively, against S. frugiperda, and 50.50 and 59.00 nmol/cm2, respectively, against E. paenulata].

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that drimanic compounds have potential as new agents against S. frugiperda and E. paenulata. A quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) analysis of the whole series, supported by electronic studies, suggested that drimanic compounds have structural features necessary for increasing antifeedant activity, namely a C‐9 carbonyl group and an epoxide at C‐8 and C‐9. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Antiphytoviral toxins of Actinidia chinensis root bark (ACRB) extract: laboratory and semi‐field trials
Authors: Zhang XiuYun , Zhou Yu , Wei ZhiPing , Shen Jing , Wang LongKun , Ma ZhiQing , Zhang Xing
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Actinidia chinensis Planch, which is distributed only in China, has been used to treat hepatitis and cancer. The objective of the present work was to identify the antiviral active ingredient of A. chinensis root bark (ACRB).

RESULTS

Bioassay‐guided isolation of the most active fraction, the EtOAc extract, led to the identification of seven compounds, (+)‐catechins‐7‐phytol (1), 5‐methoxy‐coumarin‐7‐β‐D‐glycosidase (2), (+)‐catechins (3), fupenzic acid (4), spathodic acid‐28‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (5), 3‐oxo‐9, 12‐diene‐30‐oic acid (6), and 3‐β‐(2‐carboxy benzoyloxy) oleanolic acid (7). Of these, 5‐methoxy‐coumarin‐7‐β‐D‐glycosidase (2) possessed the highest antiviral activity, followed by spathodic acid‐28‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (5). Thus, compounds 2 and 5 were the main active constituents, with potential for further development as biological antiviral agents.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that ACRB possesses great potential value for development of an antiviral agent to control phytoviral diseases. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
One‐pot synthesis of anilides, herbicidal activity and molecular docking study
Authors: Sartori Suélen K , Alvarenga Elson S , Franco Cristiane A , Ramos Danielle S , Oliveira Denilson F
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

In the context of the demand for more efficient herbicides, the aim of the present work was to synthesize anilides via simple methods, and evaluate their herbicidal activities through seed germination assays. In silico studies were carried out to identify the enzyme target sites in plants for the most active anilides.

RESULTS

A total of 18 anilides were prepared via one‐pot reaction in yields that varied from 36 to 98% through reactions of anilines with sorbic chloride and hexanoic anhydride. According to seed germination assays in three dicotyledonous and one monocotyledonous plant species, the most active anilides showed root and shoot growth inhibition superior to that of Dual (S‐metolachlor). In silico studies indicated that histone deacetylase was the probable enzyme target site in plants for these substances. The affinities of the most active anilides for the binding sites of this enzyme were equal to or higher than those calculated for its inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

Anilides 4d, 4e, 4 g, and 4 h are promising candidates for the development of novel herbicides. According to in silico studies, they inhibit histone deacetylase in plants, which can be exploited for the development of new weed control methods. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Lasing Characteristics of 1.2 µm GaInAsP LD on InP/Si Substrate
Authors: Periyanayagam Gandhi Kallarasan , Nishiyama Tetsuo , Kamada Naoki , Onuki Yuya , Shimomura Kazuhiko
Published: January 2018

Crystal growth on a Si substrate for the fabrication of a 1.2 µm GaInAsP laser diode is demonstrated via metal organic vapor phase epitaxy and lasing operation in the pulse regime at room temperature was successfully achieved. Direct wafer bonding at 400 °C for the InP thin film and Si substrate is conducted prior to the growth process is adopted. After the bonding process, epitaxial layers are grown for the monolithic integration of InP optical devices on the wafer‐bonded InP/Si substrate. The surface after crystal growth is quite smooth and contains less voids. The photoluminescence (PL) intensity of GaInAsP on the InP/Si substrate is almost equivalent to the PL intensity of InP substrate as a reference. After forming a metallic contact at the n‐Si and p‐InP sides, the chips are cleaved and the current density‐light output (I‐L) characteristics are measured. The I‐L characteristics show that there is a difference in the threshold current density between the InP/Si substrate and InP substrate. The increase in the threshold current density is dependent on the measurement temperature, and that for the InP/Si substrate was as low as 4 kA cm−2.
Study on the Main‐Chain Structure of Amorphous Fluorine Resins for Encapsulating AlGaN‐Based DUV‐LEDs
Authors: Yamada Kiho , Nagasawa Yosuke , Nagai Shoko , Hirano Akira , Ippommatsu Masamichi , Aosaki Ko , Honda Yoshio , Amano Hiroshi , Akasaki Isamu
Published: January 2018

The main chain structure of optically isotropic amorphous fluorine resin for encapsulating AlGaN‐based deep‐ultraviolet LEDs (λ < 300 nm) is studied. One type of amorphous fluorine resin has a five‐membered ring with a single oxygen atom and the other has that one with two oxygen atoms. Reliability testing is performed using AlGaN‐based LEDs of 262 and 289 nm. For the resin with two oxygen atoms in the ring, visible damage to the electrode and significantly increased leakage current are considered to been caused by the photolysis of the ring induced by irradiation with deep‐ultraviolet light. In contrast, electrode damage and increased leakage are not observed in the case of the resin with the single‐oxygen ring.
Effect of Bath pH on Interfacial Properties of Electrodeposited n‐Cu2O Films
Authors: Kafi F. S. B. , Jayathileka K. M. D. C. , Wijesundera R. P. , Siripala W.
Published: January 2018

For developing semiconductor junction devices with low cost electrodeposited cuprous oxide (Cu2O), it will be very useful to investigate possibilities to improve the interface properties of Cu2O with suitable junction materials. We have investigated the effect of electrodeposition bath pH on the interfacial properties of n‐Cu2O/electrolyte, n‐Cu2O/Au, and n‐Cu2O/p‐Cu2O junctions by exploiting capacitance–voltage and photoresponse measurements. In addition, XRD and SEM measurements were also employed for thin film characterization. We have observed that for an increase in bath pH from 5.7 to 6.5 the resulted n‐Cu2O films produced a shift in the extrapolated flat band potential at the aqueous electrolyte interface by 300 mV. In addition, we have observed that extrapolated built‐in potentials at n‐Cu2O/Au and n‐Cu2O/p‐Cu2O interfaces are also affected by the bath pH. With the change in bath pH, the shift in the flat band potential at n‐Cu2O/electrolyte interface is completely opposite to the built‐in potential shift at n‐Cu2O/Au interface. We explained the observation as a result of the change in net charge at the interfacial surface layers of the interfaces, due to the change in bath pH of the films. Evidence in support of the explanation was further established by the observation that the built‐in potential at n‐Cu2O/Au interface is increased due to the surface modification of n‐Cu2O films with S2− ions. In addition, bath pH could be optimized in the fabrication process of Cu2O homojunctions to yield high photoactivity. In comparison with the best n‐Cu2O/Au Schottky junction, we could fabricate a Cu2O homojunction with a 590% increase in Voc and an 800% increase in Isc. All the experimental evidences directed toward the idea that the relative band edge position of n‐Cu2O at the interfaces is affected by the bath pH. The results reported in this investigation will be very useful in the applications of electrodeposited Cu2O films in photocataytic, solar cell, and other electronic devices.
The bright side of linking science and management in large river ecosystems: The Hudson River case study
Authors: Findlay S.
Published: January 2018

Large river ecosystems (LRE) are important components of global cycles, influence large parts of the earth's surface, and provide many services in support of human civilization. However, understanding their condition, functioning, and trajectory of change is difficult in part due to their scale and diversity of forcing factors but also due to multiple and potentially conflicting human uses. Although these challenges are generally applicable and probably true to some degree for any large river ecosystem, there are also attributes of LRE that foster scientific understanding, can lead to knowledge‐based management, and may catalyse their interaction. The absolute size of LRE means they will be complex, unique and the water quality, physical character, or habitat availability at any particular point may be the result of drivers acting further up the basin or legacies from previous times. On the bright side however, their absolute size also means there will be existing information on many important features, not least land cover and hydrology. Moreover, it is highly likely there will be a sizeable human population in the basin that derives some benefits from the river even if just in a narrow anthropocentric fashion and so there will be some motivation for understanding characteristics and potential change. Large size also suggests that the LRE will be viewed (perhaps with some basis in law) as a national or regional resource making it (at least nominally) worthy of study and management. I provide some examples of how science and management of the Hudson River in New York, USA, have benefitted from some of these perceived difficulties perhaps offering optimism for application in other systems.
Improving STEM program quality in out‐of‐school‐time: Tool development and validation
Authors: Shah Ashima Mathur , Wylie Caroline , Gitomer Drew , Noam Gil
Published: January 2018

In and out‐of‐school time (OST) experiences are viewed as complementary in contributing to students’ interest, engagement, and performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). While tools exist to measure quality in general afterschool settings and others to measure structured science classroom experiences, there is a need for reliable measures of STEM program quality in OST settings such as afterschool programs, summer camps, and museum or science center programming. In this paper we present the development of the Dimensions of Success (DoS) tool, which defines twelve key components of informal, exploratory STEM programming that goes beyond the school day. Additionally, we present a validity argument that includes reliability evidence for the DoS tool based on two studies: Study 1 (n = 284 observations) and Study 2 (n = 56 observations). Our findings suggest that the coherence of the constructs and validity evidence, as well as the training and certification procedures in place for DoS, make it an important tool to understand the quality of STEM experiences for youth beyond the school day. A tool like DoS has several implications, including the ability to make national comparisons across programs, create aggregate databases, improve program quality and professional development, as well as to link program quality to student‐level outcomes.