bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personal Pronoun in Christian Palestinian Aramaic
Authors: Li Tarsee
Published: May 2019

The present study consists of a description of the functions of the personal pronoun attested in the Christian Palestinian Aramaic Gospels. Inferences are drawn from the way the pronoun is employed in the translation of various Greek grammatical expressions and from comparing the instances of some Aramaic expressions that can occur with or without the pronoun.
Shame and Insult in Anatolia
Authors: Nikolaev Alexander
Published: May 2019

The origin of the verb („)zammurāi- (MH+) is unknown. The goal of this paper is to 1) clarify the verb’s meaning and 2) its derivational morphology, 3) discuss its purported etymological connection with Lyc. zum̃ me ̃ / zum̃ mã and Luv. zamman-, and 4) propose an Indo-European etymology for the root, which, if correct, will make („)zammurāi- relevant for the continued debate about reflexes of Indo-European dorsal stops in Luvic languages.
Hosea13:2)–stet( ִכְּתבוָּנם
Authors: Rendsburg Gary
Published: May 2019

ִכּ ְתבוּ ָנם This article responds to a recent article by Stuart Irvine, regarding MT ‘according to their understanding’ in Hosea 13:2. While Irvine argued that the form should be emended to ַת ְב ִני ָתם כְּ ‘according to their design’, the present essay notes parallels both from the domain of Hebrew morphology and from the world of Mesopotamian texts, which serve to support MT in this instance.
Fire over Luoyang: A History of the Later Han Dynasty 23–220 AD. Rafe de Crespigny
Authors: Pitner Mark G.
Published: May 2019

Fire over Luoyang: A History of the Later Han Dynasty 23–220 AD. Rafe de Crespigny. Sinica

Leidensia, vol . 134. Leiden: Brill, 2016. Pp. xii + 580. €167, $200.
Encounters by the Rivers of Babylon. Edited by Uri Gabbay and Shai Secunda
Authors: Pearce Laurie
Published: May 2019

Encounters by the Rivers of Babylon. Edited by Uri Gabbay and Shai Secunda. Texts and Studies in Ancient Judaism, vol. 160. Tübingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2014. Pp. vi + 469. €189.
Die neuassyrische und spätbabylonische Glyptik aus Tall Šēḫ Ḥamad. Vol . 1: Text und Konkordanzen; Vol . 2: Katalog und Tafeln. By Anja Fügert
Authors: Wallenfels Ronald
Published: May 2019

Die neuassyrische und spätbabylonische Glyptik aus Tall Šēḫ Ḥamad. Vol . 1: Text und Konkordanzen; Vol . 2: Katalog und Tafeln. By Anja Fügert. Berichte der Ausgrabung Tall Šēḫ Ḥamad / Dūr- Katlimmu, vol. 16. Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz Verlag, 2015. Pp. lxxviii + 318, ix + 497, illus. €198.
Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: A Philosophical Guide. By Alfred L. Ivry
Authors: Naaman Erez
Published: May 2019

Maimonides’ Guide of the Perplexed: A Philosophical Guide. By Alfred L. Ivry. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2016. Pp. xiii + 307. $50, £35.
Exile in the Maghreb: Jews under Islam, Sources and Documents, 997–1912. By Paul B. Fenton and David G. Littman
Authors: Miller Susan Gilson
Published: May 2019

Exile in the Maghreb: Jews under Islam, Sources and Documents, 997–1912. By Paul B. Fenton and David G. Littman. Madison, NJ: FairLeigh Dickinson University Press, 2016. Pp. xxxv + 627. $60, £39.95 (cloth); $57, £39.95 (ebook).
Almoravid and Almohad Empires. By Amira K. Bennison
Authors: Safran Janina M.
Published: May 2019

The Almoravid and Almohad Empires. By Amira K. Bennison. The Edinburgh History of the Islamic Empires. Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 2016. Pp. xiv + 382. $150, £90 (cloth); $49.95, £29.99 (paper).
Anthologist’s Art: Abū Manṣūr al-Thaʿālibī and His Yatīmat al-dahr. By Bilal Orfali
Authors: Talib Adam
Published: May 2019

The Anthologist’s Art: Abū Manṣūr al-Thaʿālibī and His Yatīmat al-dahr. By Bilal Orfali. Brill Studies in Middle Eastern Literatures, vol. 37. Leiden: Brill, 2016. Pp. xx + 271. $135, €104.
Quality Assessment of Sachet and Bottled Water in Ogbomoso Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Airaodion Augustine I. , Airaodion Edith O. , Osemwowa Etinosa U. , Ogbuagu Emmanuel O. , Ogbuagu Uloaku
Published: May 2019

Background: Access to potable water has become a difficult task in many countries of the world including Nigeria. In Nigeria, the government is trying her best to make water supply available to the masses but till now this vision has never been accomplished. If those living in urban areas could not have access to portable water supply by the government, what is the fate of the people living in rural areas? This has led to increased usage of sachet and bottled water as portable drinking water.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the quality of sachet and bottled water produced and/or sold in Ogbomoso metropolis, Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: This research was carried out in Ogbomoso and Ibadan both in Oyo State Nigeria between November 2018 and February, 2019.

Methodology: Twenty sachet and five bottled drinking water brands; making a total of 25 brands from different manufacturers were used for this study. They were purchased randomly from local markets, shops and street vendors within Ogbomoso metropolis. They were clearly marked for easy identification, and transported to the Quality Assurance Laboratory of Water Corporation, Eleyele, Ibadan for immediate analysis. The samples were examined physically and information on the packages were recorded. Each product was carefully opened to avoid contamination. The physical, chemical and bacteriological qualities as well as the mineral composition of all samples were analyzed using standard methods and results were compared with the recommended WHO/NIS guidelines for quality water.

Results: Physical examination indicated that all the sampled water were registered with NAFDAC but 50% of the sachet water had no manufacturing and expiry dates. The results of physical, chemical and bacteriological qualities as well as the mineral composition of sachet and bottled drinking water analyzed showed that 90% of the values were within the guideline of WHO/NIS for quality water.

Conclusion: Though, the average temperature values of both the sachet and bottled drinking water samples were significantly above the WHO/NIS standard, it did not have any effect on their microbiological quality properties. Total coliforms, faecal coliforms and enterococci bacteria       that principally characterize drinking water quality were not present in any of the water       samples. Generally, the results obtained in this study indicated that sachet and bottled drinking water produced and/or sold in Ogbomoso metropolis were of good quality and hygienic for consumption.
Role of Midkine in Predicting Malignancy in Patient with Solitary Thyroid Nodule
Authors: Ibrahim Nesma A. , Hamam Ahmed M.
Published: May 2019

Background: Solitary thyroid nodules are a common clinical problem. None of sonographic features is sufficient to discard or detect malignancy efficiently. Midkine is a novel heparin-binding growth factor, plays critical roles in carcinogenesis. In this study, we aimed to evaluate serum midkine levels in patients with solitary thyroid nodules to predict malignancy.

Methods: A total of 100 patients who had solitary thyroid nodules were enrolled in the study. Serum midkine levels were measured. Fine needle aspiration cytology was done to all nodules (25 suspicious/ malignant and 75 benign).

Results: Serum midkine levels were significantly higher in patients who had nodules with the following sonographic features; hypoechoic nodules compared to isoechoic and hyperechoic nodules (P=0.024), nodules with microcalcification compared to nodules with macrocalcification or without calcification (P = 0.011), nodules with irregular borders compared to nodules with regular borders (P = 0.014) and nodules more than 2 cm in length than shorter ones (P = 0.011). Serum midkine levels were also higher in nodules with absent halo compared to those with clear halo but with no significant difference (P = 0.660). Also, levels of serum medikine were significantly higher in suspicious/ malignant nodules than in benign nodules (P < 0.001).

Conclusion: Serum midkine can predict malignancy in solitary thyroid nodule and also well correlated with sonographic features of thyroid nodules. We suggest that midkine levels may serve as a novel biochemarker in association with sonographic features in evaluation of solitary thyroid nodules.
Biodiversity in Forest Fragments under Different Forms of Environmental Conservation, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Christovam Juliana , Souza Ferraz Rener Luciano de , Costa Patrícia Da Silva , Cavalcante Júnior Constantino Antônio , Dos Anjos Franklin Alves , Barbosa Marcelo De Andrade , Franco Fernando Oliveira , Magalhães Ivomberg Dourado , Medeiros Aldair De Souza , Melo Alberto Soares de
Published: May 2019

Characteristic environments of forests generally harbor significant biodiversity, which is considered an important indicator of local environmental quality, so that the analysis of this indicator can subsidize the decision making on areas for legal reserve. The objective of this work was to evaluate the biodiversity of forest fragments at different levels of anthropization in the municipality of Jaboticabal, State of São Paulo, Brazil. The related research was carried out in three forest fragments, an area under reforested conditions, a natural remnant area and an area under natural regeneration. Each fragment was divided into three sampling units of 240 m2, constituting the replicates. The total frequency of insects, amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles and trees was evaluated. Cluster analysis indicated that there were differences between the three fragment types. The analyzed variables were summarized in two main components, which explain 87.1% of the accumulated total variance. It was concluded that the areas of natural remnants and reforestation presented higher frequencies of species and, consequently, greater biological diversity than the natural regeneration area.
Allergen-specific IgE to recombinant latex allergens in occupational allergy diagnostics
Authors: Nowakowska-Świrta Ewa , Wiszniewska Marta , Walusiak-Skorupa Jolanta
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Specific challenge tests (SICs) are considered reference tests for allergic occupational diseases diagnosis. However, in numerous cases, SICs cannot be carried out in the diagnosis of allergy to latex due to the risk of generalized reactions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of sIgE determination to recombinant latex allergens in diagnostics of occupational respiratory allergy.

Materials and Methods

The study group comprised 44 healthcare workers (HCW) suspected of suffering from occupational respiratory allergy to latex (they underwent a physical examination, skin-prick tests (SPTs) to common and latex allergens, spirometry and SIC) and 17 controls not occupationally exposed to latex, with a positive sIgE against latex. Each serum was tested for allergen-specific IgE to aeroallergens, latex, eight recombinant latex allergens and CCD-markers.

Results

Specific IgE against Hev b5, 6.01, and 6.02 were significantly more frequently detected in HCWs and their mean serum levels were higher compared with the control group. In 26 HCWs with occupational asthma (OA), sensitization to Hev b5, Hev b6.01, Hev b6.02 was significantly more frequent than in 18 HCWs with work-exacerbated asthma (WEA); they had positive results SPT to latex significantly more frequently in comparison with subjects with WEA.

Conclusions

Test for recombinant latex allergens is much more accurate in recognition of latex allergy than test for latex extract, which seems to produce false-positive results in patients with pollen allergy. The measurements of sIgE against recombinant latex allergens Hev b 6.01, 6.02, 5, and 8 are useful in differentiating OA from WEA.
On some parameter estimation algorithms for the nonlinear exponential autoregressive model
Authors: Xu Huan , Ding Feng , Sheng Jie
Published: May 2019

Modeling an exponential autoregressive (ExpAR) time series is the basis of solving the corresponding prediction and control problems. This paper investigates the hierarchical parameter estimation methods for the ExpAR model. By the hierarchical identification principle, the original nonlinear optimization problem is transformed into the combination of a linear and nonlinear optimization problem, and then, we derive a hierarchical least squares and stochastic gradient (LS‐SG) algorithm. Given the difficulty of determining the step‐size in the hierarchical LS‐SG algorithm, an approach is proposed to obtain the optimal step‐size. To improve the parameter estimation accuracy, the multi‐innovation identification theory is employed to develop a hierarchical least squares and multi‐innovation stochastic gradient algorithm for the ExpAR model. Two simulation examples are provided to test the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Active Mixing of Reactive Materials for 3D Printing
Authors: Golobic Alexandra M. , Durban Matthew D. , Fisher Scott E. , Grapes Michael D. , Ortega Jason M. , Spadaccini Christopher M. , Duoss Eric B. , Gash Alexander E. , Sullivan Kyle T.
Published: May 2019

The mixing of materials during additive manufacturing is a major benefit which allows one to compositionally and spatially tailor material properties, for example to locally control the reactivity in fuel–oxidizer systems known as thermites. This work characterizes an active mixing printhead used in conjunction with a 3D printing process known as Direct Ink Writing. Besides compositional control, a major benefit of this approach is that it offers a safe method for working with these materials, which can otherwise be hazardous once mixed. Custom fuel and oxidizer inks are fed at fixed volumetric rates into an active mixing printhead, and both the rotational speed of the mixing impeller as well as the fuel–oxidizer ratio are varied. Upon ignition, the propagation speed increases with the rotational speed of the mixer and plateaus above a critical value of ≈750 rpm. The critical mixing speed is corroborated by computational fluid simulations and an analytical expression that considers the inks’ complex fluid behavior. Additionally, varying the composition results in a wide range of propagation speeds with peak reactivity corresponding to a fuel‐rich formulation (ϕ = 1.5). A test article incorporating a fast‐ and slow‐burning region demonstrates how spatial composition can manipulate the reactivity.
Gut Microbiota Changes in Patients with Bipolar Depression
Authors: Hu Shaohua , Li Ang , Huang Tingting , Lai Jianbo , Li Jingjing , Sublette M. Elizabeth , Lu Haifeng , Lu Qiaoqiao , Du Yanli , Hu Zhiying , Ng Chee H. , Zhang Hua , Lu Jing , Mou Tingting , Lu Shaojia , Wang Dandan , Duan Jinfeng , Hu Jianbo , Huang Manli , Wei Ning , Zhou Weihua , Ruan Liemin , Li Ming D. , Xu Yi
Published: May 2019

This study aims to characterize the gut microbiota in depressed patients with bipolar disorder (BD) compared with healthy controls (HCs), to examine the effects of quetiapine treatment on the microbiota, and to explore the potential of microbiota as a biomarker for BD diagnosis and treatment outcome. Analysis of 16S‐ribosomal RNA gene sequences reveals that gut microbial composition and diversity are significantly different between BD patients and HCs. Phylum Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes are the predominant bacterial communities in BD patients and HCs, respectively. Lower levels of butyrate‐producing bacteria are observed in untreated patients. Microbial composition changes following quetiapine treatment in BD patients. Notably, 30 microbial markers are identified on a random forest model and achieve an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 between untreated patients and HCs. Ten microbial markers are identified with the AUC of 0.93 between responder and nonresponder patients. This study characterizes the gut microbiota in BD and is the first to evaluate microbial changes following quetiapine monotherapy. Gut microbiota‐based biomarkers may be helpful in BD diagnosis and predicting treatment outcome, which need further validations.
Biallelic human ITCH variants causing a multisystem disease with dysmorphic features: A second report
Authors: Brittain Helen K. , Feary Johanna , Rosenthal Mark , Spoudeas Helen ,   Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) Study, Wilson Louise C.
Published: May 2019

We report a 23 year old female with biallelic truncating variants in the ITCH (Itchy E3 Ubiquitin protein ligase, mouse homolog of; OMIM60649) gene associated with marked short stature, severe early onset chronic lung disease resembling asthma, dysmorphic facial features, and symmetrical camptodactyly of the fingers but normal intellect. The condition has only been reported once previously (Lohr et al., American Journal of Human Genetics, 2010, 86, 447–453) in 10 children from an Old Order Amish family found to have a homozygous frameshift truncating variant in association with failure to thrive, chronic lung disease, motor and cognitive delay, and variable autoimmune diseases including autoimmune hepatitis, enteropathy, hypothyroidism, and diabetes. The condition is listed in OMIM as Autoimmune disease, Multisystem with Facial Dysmorphism (OMIM613385). The clinical course as well as the dysmorphic facial and limb features overlap closely with our patient. We believe the triad of marked syndromic short stature, chronic lung disease, and dysmorphism (with or without cognitive impairment and wider autoimmune involvement) is distinctive.
5‐(Cyano)dibenzothiophenium Triflate: A Sulfur‐Based Reagent for Electrophilic Cyanation and Cyanocyclizations
Authors: Li Xiangdong , Golz Christopher , Alcarazo Manuel
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of 5‐(cyano)dibenzothiophenium triflate 9, prepared by activation of dibenzo[b,d]thiophene‐5‐oxide with Tf2O and subsequent reaction with TMSCN is reported, and its reactivity as electrophilic cyanation reagent evaluated. The scalable preparation, easy handling and broad substrate scope of the electrophilic cyanation promoted by 9, which includes amines, thiols, silyl enol ethers, alkenes, electron rich (hetero)arenes and polyaromatic hydrocarbons, illustrate the synthetic potential of this reagent. Importantly, Lewis acid activation of the reagent is not required for the transfer process. We additionally report herein biomimetic cyanocyclization cascade reactions, which are not promoted by typical electrophilic cyanation reagents, demonstrating the superior ability of 9 to trigger challenging transformations.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Intramolecular Hydroamination of Allenes
Authors: Berthold Dino , Geissler Arne G. A. , Giofré Sabrina , Breit Bernhard
Published: May 2019

The rhodium‐catalyzed asymmetric intramolecular hydroamination of sulfonyl amides with terminal allenes is reported. It provides selective access to 5‐ and 6‐membered N‐heterocycles, scaffolds found in a large range of different bioactive compounds. Moreover, gram scale reactions, as well as the application of suitable product transformations to natural products and key intermediates thereof are demonstrated.
Sharps Injuries during Dissection: A Five‐Year Retrospective Study in the Context of Safety
Authors: Foytl Jakub , Chisholm Fraser , Varsou Ourania
Published: May 2019

The supplementation of lecture‐based anatomy teaching with laboratory sessions, involving dissection or anatomical specimens, is commonly used. Hands‐on dissection allows students to handle instruments correctly while actively exploring three‐dimensional anatomy. However, dissection carries a potential risk of sharps and splash injuries. The aim of this study was to quantify the frequency rate of such cases per 1,000 student‐hours of dissection and identify potential factors than might influence safety in anatomy laboratories. Data were retrospectively collected from September 2013 to June 2018 at the University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK. Overall, 35 sharps injuries were recorded in undergraduate medical students, with a frequency rate of 0.384 and no splash cases. A statistically significant, moderate negative association between year of study and frequency rate (rho(25) = −0.663; P < 0.001) was noted. A statistically significant difference in the frequency rate between different semester modules (χ2(4) = 13.577, P = 0.009) was observed with the difference being between Year 1 Semester 2 and Year 3 Semester 1 (P = 0.004). The decreasing trend with advancing year of study might be linked to increasing dissecting experience or the surface area of the region dissected. The following factors might have contributed to increased safety influencing frequency rates: single‐handed blade removal systems; mandatory personal protective equipment; and having only one student dissecting at a given time. The authors propose that safety familiarization alongside standardized training and safety measures, as part of an evidence‐based culture shift, will instill safety conscious behaviors and reduce injuries in anatomy laboratories.
The neural and genetic correlates of satisfying sexual activity in heterosexual pair‐bonds
Authors: Acevedo Bianca P. , Poulin Michael J. , Geher Glenn , Grafton Scott , Brown Lucy L.
Published: May 2019

Introduction

In humans, satisfying sexual activity within a pair‐bond plays a significant role in relationship quality and maintenance, beyond reproduction. However, the neural and genetic correlates for this basic species‐supporting function, in response to a pair‐bonded partner, are unknown.

Methods

We examined the neural correlates of oxytocin‐ (Oxtr rs53576) and vasopressin‐ (Avpr1a rs3) receptor genotypes with sexual satisfaction and frequency, among a group of individuals in pair‐bonds (M relationship length = 4.1 years). Participants were scanned twice (with functional MRI), about 1‐year apart, while viewing face images of their spouse and a familiar, neutral acquaintance.

Results

Sex satisfaction scores showed significant interactions with Oxtr and Avpr variants associated with social behaviors in a broad network of regions involved in reward and motivation (ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra [SN], and caudate), social bonding (ventral pallidum), emotion and memory (amygdala/hippocampus), hormone control (hypothalamus); and somatosensory and self‐other processing (SII, frontal, and temporal lobe). Sexual frequency interactions also showed activations in the SN and paraventricular hypothalamus for Avpr, and the prefrontal cortex for Oxtr.

Conclusions

Satisfying sexual activity in pair‐bonds is associated with activation of subcortical structures that support basic motivational and physiological processes; as well as cortical regions that mediate complex thinking, empathy, and self‐other processes highlighting the multifaceted role of sex in pair‐bonds. Oxtr and Avpr gene variants may further amplify both basic and complex neural processes for pair‐bond conservation and well‐being.
Machine Learning for Computational Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Schlexer Lamoureux Philomena , Winther Kirsten T. , Garrido Torres Jose Antonio , Streibel Verena , Zhao Meng , Bajdich Michal , Abild‐Pedersen Frank , Bligaard Thomas
Published: May 2019

Big data and artificial intelligence has revolutionized science in almost every field – from economics to physics. In the area of materials science and computational heterogeneous catalysis, this revolution has led to the development of scientific data repositories, as well as data mining and machine learning tools to investigate the vast materials space. The goal of using these tools is to establish a deeper understanding of the relations between materials properties and activity, selectivity and stability – the important figures of merit in catalysis. Based on these insights, catalyst design principles can be established, which hopefully lead us to discover highly efficient catalysts to solve pressing issues for a sustainable future and the synthesis of highly functional materials, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. The inherent complexity of catalytic reactions quests for machine learning methods to efficiently navigate through the high‐dimensional hyper‐surfaces in structure optimization problems to determine relevant chemical structures and transition states. In this review, we show how cutting edge data infrastructures and machine learning methods are being used to address problems in computational heterogeneous catalysis.
Substitution of an Internal Disulfide Bridge with a Diselenide Enhances both Foldability and Stability of Human Insulin
Authors: Weil‐Ktorza Orit , Rege Nischay , Lansky Shifra , Shalev Deborah E. , Shoham Gil , Weiss Michael A. , Metanis Norman
Published: May 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Norman Metanis at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Michael A. Weiss at the Indiana University School of Medicine. The image depicts a simple method for the preparation of new insulin analogues with a particular interest in more stable analogues with extended shelf life. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201900892.
Undertreatment of women with locoregionally advanced head and neck cancer
Authors: Park Annie , Alabaster Amy , Shen Hanjie , Mell Loren K. , Katzel Jed A.
Published: May 2019

Background

It is difficult to predict whether a patient with head and neck cancer (HNC) is more likely to die of the cancer or another comorbidity. Competing event models can help to identify individual patients or groups of patients who may be undertreated or overtreated in clinical practice.

Methods

Patients with HNC (n = 884), aged 18 to 85 years and diagnosed from 2000 to 2015 with stage II to IVB disease according to the seventh edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer system, were identified. With a generalized competing event (GCE) model that controlled for age, sex, tumor site, surgical treatment, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), the association between these factors and the relative hazard for cancer mortality was determined. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds of receiving platinum‐based chemoradiotherapy or a less intensive therapy, with adjustments made for age, sex, tumor site, CCI, stage, smoking, and alcohol abuse history.

Results

Compared with men, women had an increased relative hazard ratio for death from HNC versus other causes, which was reported as an adjusted ω+ ratio comparing women with men (ω+ ratio, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.09‐3.49), even though they were less likely to receive intensive chemoradiotherapy than men (adjusted odds ratio, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.48‐0.99).

Conclusions

These findings indicate that women in this cohort may be undertreated in clinical practice and potentially miss the opportunity for their HNC to be aggressively treated. This study supports the use of GCE models to identify patients who are potentially undertreated and may also help to guide future research in health disparities.
A randomised bite force study assessing two currently marketed denture adhesive products compared with no‐adhesive control
Authors: Varghese Roshan , Burnett Gary R. , Souverain Audrey , Patil Avinash , Gossweiler Ana G.
Published: May 2019

Unlike other oral care products, there are limited technologies in the denture adhesive category with the majority based on polymethyl vinyl ether/maleic anhydride (PVM/MA) polymer. Carbomer‐based denture adhesives are less well studied, and there are few clinical studies directly comparing performance of denture adhesives based on different technologies. This single‐centre, randomised, three‐treatment, three‐period, examiner‐blind, crossover study compared a carbomer‐based denture adhesive (Test adhesive) with a PVM/MA‐based adhesive (Reference adhesive) and no adhesive using incisal bite force measurements (area over baseline over 12 hr; AOB0–12) in participants with a well‐made and at least moderately well‐fitting complete maxillary denture. Eligible participants were randomised to a treatment sequence and bit on a force transducer with increasing force until their maxillary denture dislodged. This procedure was performed prior to treatment application (baseline) and at 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 hr following application. Forty‐four participants were included in the modified intent‐to‐treat population. AOB0–12 favoured both Test adhesive to No adhesive (difference: 2.12 lbs; 95% CI [1.25, 3.00]; p < 0.0001) and Reference adhesive to No adhesive (difference: 2.76 lbs; 95% CI [1.89, 3.63]; p < 0.0001). There was a numerical difference in AOB0–12 for Test versus Reference adhesive (−0.63 lbs; [−1.51, 0.25]); however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.1555). Treatments were generally well tolerated. Both PVM/MA and carbomer‐based denture adhesives demonstrated statistically significantly superior denture retention compared with no adhesive over 12 hr, with no statistically significant difference between adhesives.
Understanding the limits to species‐wide demographic generalizations: the ecology and management of Parkinsonia aculeata
Authors: Pichancourt J‐B. , van Klinken R. D. , Raghu S.
Published: May 2019

The search for generalizations in the face of complex species–environment interactions is particularly important for minimizing the cost of managing populations of species. We tested whether we could generalize, at various nested scales, the species‐level demography of the widely invasive plant species Parkinsonia aculeata (Fabaceae) and whether these generalizations were representative of the demography observed locally. Full demographic surveys at all life stages of the species were conducted in 23 Australian sites during seven years (from 2000 to 2007), across a 1000‐km climatic gradient. Sites were nested across four climate regions (arid, semi‐arid, semi‐wet/dry tropics, wet/dry tropics) and three habitat types (upland, wetland, and riparian). We estimated the vital rates (growth/retrogression, survival, fecundity) at all life stages and size classes and combined them to create 99 site–year demographic matrix population models. With these models, we then estimated site–year‐specific asymptotic population growth rates and their corresponding prospective elasticity values to perturbation of the vital rates. We then developed a nested retrospective elasticity analysis (nested LTRE) to test whether and how upscaling the results (i.e., from site to habitat, to climate region, and to the invaded range) produced averaging bias, which could lead to spurious interpretations of the relationships between the retrospective elasticity values. The prospective analysis highlighted that site–year variation in the matrix population models, population growth rates, and corresponding elasticities could not be well summarized by a single species‐level analysis and that the spread was as diverse as found in previously reported multispecies‐level demographic analyses. The nested LTRE analysis showed that upscaling demographic models introduced for most sites new sources of errors in the estimation (in terms of magnitude and sign of retrospective elasticities), which increased drastically as we progressively aggregate the demographic information between nested scales of observation. Our findings suggest that regardless of the scale, demographic generalizations at the species scale are not always useful for managing P. aculeata across sites in its invaded range, given its plasticity in demography.
Development of detachable replaceable links for eccentrically braced frames
Authors: Bozkurt Mehmet Bakır , Kazemzadeh Azad Sina , Topkaya Cem
Published: May 2019

Eccentrically braced frames (EBFs) can be repaired after a major earthquake by replacing the links. The link replacement is not a straightforward process and is influenced by the type of the link and the amount of residual frame deformations. The past decade has witnessed the development of different types of replaceable links such as end‐plated links, web connected links, bolted flange and web spliced links, and collector beam and brace spliced links. All of the developed replaceable link details, except the web connected links, are not suitable for link replacement under residual frame drift. In this paper, a detachable replaceable link detail which is based on splicing the link at its mid‐length is proposed. The detail is well suited for installation under residual frame drifts. In addition, the weight and size of the members to be transported and erected are reduced significantly, thereby facilitating the replacement procedure. Performance of this proposed replaceable link is studied by conducting six nearly full scale EBF tests under quasi‐static cyclic loading. The link length ratio, type of end‐plated mid‐splice connection, and the amount of residual drift are considered as test variables. The test results revealed that the inelastic rotation capacity of the detachable replaceable links exceeds the requirements of the AISC Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings. No failures are observed in the end‐plated mid‐splice connections demonstrating the potential of the proposed details. The detachable replaceable links are investigated by numerical analysis as well to further validate their applicability and to develop design recommendations.
A study of properties of adaptive quadratic grids for three‐dimensional near‐surface field computations
Authors: Kallinderis Yannis , Lymperopoulou Eleni M. , Spyridonos Georgios , Antonellis Panagiotis
Published: May 2019

Curved geometries and the corresponding near‐surface fields typically require a large number of linear computational elements. High‐order numerical solvers have been primarily used with low‐order meshes. There is a need for curved, high‐order computational elements. Typical near‐surface meshes consist of hexahedral and/or prismatic elements. The present work studies the employment of quadratic meshes that are relatively coarse for field simulations. Directionally quadratic high‐order elements are proposed for the near‐surface field regions. The quadratic meshes are compared with the conventional low‐order ones in terms of accuracy and efficiency. The cases considered include closed surface volume calculations, as well as computation of gradients of several analytic fields. A special method of adaptive local quadratic meshes is proposed and evaluated. Truncation error analysis for quadratic grids yields comparison with the conventional linear hexahedral/prismatic meshes, which are subject to typical distortions such as stretching, skewness, and torsion.
Diet quality, consumption of seafood and eggs are associated with sleep quality among Chinese urban adults: A cross‐sectional study in eight cities of China
Authors: Wu Wei , Zhao Ai , Szeto Ignatius Man‐Yau , Wang Yan , Meng Liping , Li Ting , Zhang Jian , Wang Meichen , Tian Zixing , Zhang Yumei
Published: May 2019

Growing evidence has suggested that dietary modification is implicated with sleep alteration. Our study aimed to determine whether an association between diet in terms of diet quality, certain food consumption, and dietary nutrients intake and sleep quality existed in Chinese urban adults, which has been fully investigated. A cross‐sectional study was conducted among urban adults from eight Chinese cities. Total of 1,548 participants remained in the final analysis. Sleep quality was evaluated by the Chinese version of the Pittsburg Sleep Questionnaire Index. Diet quality, evaluated by Chinese Healthy Diet Index, and dietary intake, including food groups and nutrients, were derived from a semiquantitative Food Intake Frequencies Questionnaire and a single 24‐hr dietary recall. The relationship between dietary variables and sleep quality was examined using multivariable logistic regression models. Logistic regression analysis indicated that better diet quality, which features greater food diversity, higher ingestion of fruits and fish, along with higher seafood consumption, lower eggs consumption, and higher total energy intake, was significantly associated with lower risk of poor sleep quality in the crude model and the fully adjusted model with adjustment for gender, age, self‐rated health condition, self‐assessed mental stress, smoking, hypertension, and BMI. Therefore, we reached a conclusion that diet quality and certain food consumption were related to sleep quality. Although the associations observed in the cross‐sectional study require further investigation in prospective studies, dietary intervention, such as enhancement in food diversity and consumption of fruits and seafood, might serve as a probable strategy for sleep improvement.
Be Open‐Minded and Embrace the Unfamiliar
Authors: Strohschneider Peter
Published: May 2019

Cross‐border cooperation seems essential to good research. But what is it actually founded upon? In a polycentric scientific world, do we need to rethink the concepts of freedom and responsibility? And how can we protect them against current threats? Reflections on the internationality of sciences and the humanities in a global era
Exploring staff experience of economic efficiency requirements in health care: A mixed method study
Authors: Korlén Sara , Amer‐Wåhlin Isis , Lindgren Peter , von Thiele Schwarz Ulrica
Published: May 2019

Background

Economic resources are limited in health care, and governance strategies are used to push provider organizations to use resources efficiently. Although studies show that hybrid managers are successful in reconciling economic efficiency requirements with professional values to meet patient needs, surprisingly few studies focus on staff. The aim of this study is to explore staff members' experience of economic efficiency requirements.

Methods

A mixed method design was applied, targeting multi‐professional staff in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine in a Swedish university hospital. Survey data was collected (n = 93), followed by focus‐group interviews to support the understanding of the quantitative findings.

Findings

The findings show that health care staff is knowledgeable and intrinsically motivated to consider efficiency requirements, albeit it should not dominate clinical decisions. However, staff experiences little influence over resource allocation and identifies limitations in the system's abilities to meet patient needs. Staff experience incorporates a local unit and a system perspective.

Conclusion

Staff members are aware of economic efficiency requirements and will behave accordingly if patients are not at risk. However, their engagement seems to rely on how economic efficiency requirements are handled at multiple system levels and their trust in the system to fairly support patient needs.
Therapeutic cooperation between auranofin, a thioredoxin reductase inhibitor and anti‐PD‐L1 antibody for treatment of triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Raninga Prahlad V. , Lee Andy C. , Sinha Debottam , Shih Yu‐Yin , Mittal Deepak , Makhale Ashwini , Bain Amanda L. , Nanayakarra Devathri , Tonissen Kathryn F. , Kalimutho Murugan , Khanna Kum Kum
Published: May 2019

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBCs) is a very aggressive and lethal form of breast cancer with no effective targeted therapy. Neoadjuvant chemotherapies and radiotherapy remains a mainstay of treatment with only 25–30% of TNBC patients responding. Thus, there is an unmet clinical need to develop novel therapeutic strategies for TNBCs. TNBC cells have increased intracellular oxidative stress and suppressed glutathione, a major antioxidant system, but still, are protected against higher oxidative stress. We screened a panel of antioxidant genes using the TCGA and METABRIC databases and found that expression of the thioredoxin pathway genes is significantly upregulated in TNBC patients compared to non‐TNBC patients and is correlated with adverse survival outcomes. Treatment with auranofin (AF), an FDA‐approved thioredoxin reductase inhibitor caused specific cell death and impaired the growth of TNBC cells grown as spheroids. Furthermore, AF treatment exerted a significant in vivo antitumor activity in multiple TNBC models including the syngeneic 4T1.2 model, MDA‐MB‐231 xenograft and patient‐derived tumor xenograft by inhibiting thioredoxin redox activity. We, for the first time, showed that AF increased CD8+Ve T‐cell tumor infiltration in vivo and upregulated immune checkpoint PD‐L1 expression in an ERK1/2‐MYC‐dependent manner. Moreover, combination of AF with anti‐PD‐L1 antibody synergistically impaired the growth of 4T1.2 primary tumors. Our data provide a novel therapeutic strategy using AF in combination with anti‐PD‐L1 antibody that warrants further clinical investigation for TNBC patients.
Transparent Conducting Electrodes for Quantum Dots Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Seok Hae‐Jun , Lee Jae‐Hoon , Park Jin‐Hyeok , Lim Sang‐Hwi , Kim Han‐Ki
Published: May 2019

In this review, we briefly describe a recent research development of transparent conducting electrodes (TCEs) for next‐generation quantum dot‐based light‐emitting diodes (QDLEDs). Although sputtered Sn‐doped In2O3 (ITO) and chemically grown F‐doped SnO2 (FTO) electrodes have mainly been employed as transparent electrodes for QDLEDs, there have been great advances in TCE materials and fabrication processes. This review presents important characteristics of various TCE and applications in QDLEDs as a transparent cathode or anode. In particular, we will focus on characteristics of metal grids, metal nanowire, carbon nanotube, graphene, and hybrid electrodes for QDLEDs as promising alternatives to typical ITO and FTO electrodes. In addition, we discuss the current status of transparent conducting oxide‐based QDLEDs. By comparing the performances of QDLED with different TCEs, we suggest promising alternatives ITO or FTO electrodes.
Use of long‐acting reversible contraception in a cluster‐random sample of female sex workers in Kenya
Authors: Ampt Frances H. , Lim Megan S.C. , Agius Paul A. , Chersich Matthew F. , Manguro Griffins , Gichuki Caroline M. , Stoové Mark , Temmerman Marleen , Jaoko Walter , Hellard Margaret , Gichangi Peter , Luchters Stanley
Published: May 2019

Objective

To assess correlates of long‐acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) use, and explore patterns of LARC use among female sex workers (FSWs) in Kenya.

Methods

Baseline cross‐sectional data were collected between September 2016 and May 2017 in a cluster‐randomized controlled trial in Mombasa. Eligibility criteria included current sex work, age 16–34 years, not pregnant, and not planning pregnancy. Peer educators recruited FSWs from randomly selected sex‐work venues. Multiple logistic regression identified correlates of LARC use. Prevalence estimates were weighted to adjust for variation in FSW numbers recruited across venues.

Results

Among 879 participants, the prevalence of contraceptive use was 22.6% for implants and 1.6% for intra‐uterine devices (IUDs). LARC use was independently associated with previous pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio for one pregnancy, 11.4; 95% confidence interval, 4.25–30.8), positive attitude to and better knowledge of family planning, younger age, and lower education. High rates of adverse effects were reported for all methods.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that implant use has increased among FSWs in Kenya. Unintended pregnancy risks remain high and IUD use is negligible. Although LARC rates are encouraging, further intervention is required to improve both uptake (particularly of IUDs) and greater access to family planning services.
Caregivers’ emotional competence and behavioral responsiveness as correlates of early childcare workers’ relationships with children in their care
Authors: Garner Pamela W. , Parker Tameka S. , Prigmore Sarah B.
Published: May 2019

In the current study, we examined associations among early childcare workers’ emotional competence, observed responsiveness, comfort with socioemotional teaching practices, and the quality of their relationships with children in their care. The participants were 100 early childcare workers (72 center‐based Early Head Start teachers and 28 family childcare providers). Results showed that caregivers’ emotion regulation ability was positively associated with caregiver–child relational closeness. Understanding and regulation of emotion were both positively associated with childcare workers’ comfort with socioemotional teaching practices. Their observed responsiveness was positively related to relational closeness and negatively related to relational conflict. Findings are consistent with aspects of the prosocial classroom model, which asserts that educators high in emotional and social competence tend to adopt childcare practices that result in supportive relationships with children. Results provide insight into whether childcare workers’ responsiveness to young children and their perceived socioemotional teaching practices provide a pathway between emotional competence and the quality of caregiver–child relationships.
Combined docosahexaenoic acid and thyroid hormone supplementation as a protocol supporting energy supply to precondition and afford protection against metabolic stress situations
Authors: Videla Luis A.
Published: May 2019

Liver preconditioning (PC) refers to the development of an enhanced tolerance to injuring stimuli. For example, the protection from ischemia–reperfusion (IR) in the liver that is obtained by previous maneuvers triggering beneficial molecular and functional changes. Recently, we have assessed the PC effects of thyroid hormone (T3; single dose of 0.1 mg/kg) and n‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 LCPUFAs; daily doses of 450 mg/kg for 7 days) that abrogate IR injury to the liver. This feature is also achieved by a combined T3 and the n‐3 LCPUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) using a reduced period of supplementation of the FA (daily doses of 300 mg/kg for 3 days) and half of the T3 dosage (0.05 mg/kg). T3‐dependent protective mechanisms include (i) the reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐dependent activation of transcription factors nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), AP‐1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, and nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) upregulating the expression of protective proteins. (ii) ROS‐induced endoplasmic reticulum stress affording proper protein folding. (iii) The autophagy response to produce FAs for oxidation and ATP supply and amino acids for protein synthesis. (iv) Downregulation of inflammasome nucleotide‐bonding oligomerization domain leucine‐rich repeat containing family pyrin containing 3 and interleukin‐1β expression to prevent inflammation. N‐3 LCPUFAs induce antioxidant responses due to Nrf2 upregulation, with inflammation resolution being related to production of oxidation products and NF‐κB downregulation. Energy supply to achieve liver PC is met by the combined DHA plus T3 protocol through upregulation of AMPK coupled to peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator 1α signaling. In conclusion, DHA plus T3 coadministration favors hepatic bioenergetics and lipid homeostasis that is of crucial importance in acute and clinical conditions such as IR, which may be extended to long‐term or chronic situations including steatosis in obesity and diabetes. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(9):1211–1220, 2019