bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SH2B1 promotes epithelial‐mesenchymal transition through the IRS1/β‐catenin signaling axis in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Shaoqiang , Cheng Yuanda , Gao Yang , He Zhiwei , Zhou Wolong , Chang Ruimin , Peng Zhenzi , Zheng Yingying , Duan Chaojun , Zhang Chunfang
Published: January 2018

Lung adenocarcinoma (LADC), the most prevalent type of human lung cancer, is characterized by many molecular abnormalities. SH2B1, a member of the SH2‐domain containing family, have recently been shown to act as tumor activators in multiple cancers, including LADC. However, the mechanisms underlying SH2B1 overexpression are not completely understood. Here, we reported that SH2B1 expression levels were significantly upregulated and positively associated with EMT markers and poor patient survival in LADC specimens. Modulation of SH2B1 levels had distinct effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle, migration, invasion, and morphology in A549 and H1299 cells in vitro and in vivo. At the molecular level, overexpression of SH2B1 resulted in the upregulation of the EMT markers, especially induced β‐catenin accumulation and activated β‐catenin signaling to promote LADC cell proliferation and metastasis, while silencing SH2B1 had the opposite effect. Furthermore, ectopic expression of SH2B1 in H1299 cells increased IRS1 expression level. Reduced expression of IRS1 considerably inhibited H1299 cell proliferation, migration, and invasion which were driven by SH2B1 overexpression. Collectively, these results provide unequivocal evidence to establish that SH2B1‐IRS1‐β‐catenin axis is required for promoting EMT, and might prove to be a promising strategy for restraining tumor progression in LADC patients.
Exact solutions of the time fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with two different methods
Authors: Lashkarian Elham , Hejazi S. Reza
Published: January 2018

In the present paper, exact solutions of fractional nonlinear Schrödinger equations have been derived by using two methods: Lie group analysis and invariant subspace method via Riemann‐Liouvill derivative. In the sense of Lie point symmetry analysis method, all of the symmetries of the Schrödinger equations are obtained, and these operators are applied to find corresponding solutions. In one case, we show that Schrödinger equation can be reduced to an equation that is related to the Erdelyi‐Kober functional derivative. The invariant subspace method for constructing exact solutions is presented for considered equations.
Existence and approximations of solutions for time‐fractional Navier‐stokes equations
Authors: Peng Li , Debbouche Amar , Zhou Yong
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this work is to investigate the problem of solutions to the time‐fractional Navier‐Stokes equations with Caputo derivative operators. We obtain the existence and uniqueness of the solutions to each approximate equation, as well as the convergence of the approximate solutions. Furthermore, we present some convergence results for the Faedo‐Galerkin approximations of the given problems.
Sulforaphane Improves Abnormal Lipid Metabolism via Both ERS‐Dependent XBP1/ACC &SCD1 and ERS‐Independent SREBP/FAS Pathways
Authors: Tian Sicong , Li Baolong , Lei Peng , Yang Xiuli , Zhang Xiaohong , Bao Yongping , Shan Yujuan
Published: January 2018

Scope

To investigate the effect of sulforaphane (SFN) on the abnormal lipid metabolism and underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

Models with abnormal lipid metabolism are established both in rats and human hepatocytes. Hepatic steatosis is detected by hematoxylin and eosin and oil red O staining. The structure of endoplasmic reticulum is visualized by transmission electron microscopy. The expressions of X‐box binding protein 1 (XBP1), protein kinase‐like ER kinase (PERK), sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c (SREBP1c), and lipogenic enzymes are determined by real‐time PCR and western blot analysis. SFN lowers the content of triglyceride and cholesterol. SFN alleviates the swelling of ER and decreases the perimeter of ER. SFN significantly decreases the expressions of acetyl CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC1), stearoyl‐CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1), and fatty acid synthase. SFN inhibits SREBP1c by blocking the PERK. Meanwhile, SFN suppresses ACC1 and SCD1 via blocking the formation of splicing‐type XBP1. The key roles of XBP1 and SREBP1c in SFN‐reduced lipid droplets are confirmed by a timed sequence of measurement according to time points.

Conclusion

SFN improves abnormal lipid metabolism via both ER‐stress‐dependent and ‐independent pathways.
CLC in AMG solvers for saddle‐point problems
Authors: Webster Ronald
Published: January 2018

An algebraic multigrid (AMG) solution method for saddle‐point problems is described. The indefinite nature of the saddle‐point matrix makes it unsuitable for the simple smoothing methods normally used in AMG. Moreover, even if presented in a stabilised form, as is done here, poorly conditioned matrices will be generated when constructing the coarse‐grid approximation. This is because, with each successive coarsening step, the off‐diagonal matrix blocks (of interfield coupling) reduce in size more slowly than the diagonal blocks (of intrafield coupling). Stabilised smoothing operators are therefore considered. The first is based on an incomplete decomposition of the complete system matrix into the product of lower‐triangular (L) and upper‐triangular (U) matrices, an ILU factorisation. The second is based on an exact block decomposition of an incomplete (simplified) system matrix into lower and upper block‐triangular matrices, a BILU factorisation. However, the degree of stabilisation thus established in the smoothing operators does not guarantee an efficient smoothing at all grid levels. There can still be inefficiency on the least‐stable coarser grids. The breakdown in efficiency begins at a grid level where the ratio of the inter‐ to intrafield coupling strengths exceeds a critical ratio. Provision is thus made for a further conditioning of coarse‐grid operators, a coarse‐level conditioning (CLC). This is another block‐LU factorisation that is only applied at and beyond the critical grid level. It is not applied directly to the operator for any chosen level but to its fine‐grid progenitor. Thus, while ILU and BILU use postcoarsening‐step factorisations, CLC uses precoarsening‐step factorisations. With CLC so deployed, ILU and BILU become efficient at all grid levels, resulting in an AMG convergence that is independent of the total number of grids.
Multiphase topology design with optimal material selection using an inversep‐norm function
Authors: James Kai A.
Published: January 2018

We present an original mathematical formulation for optimizing structural topology while simultaneously identifying an optimal set of design materials that are selected from a larger set of candidate materials. This design task is analogous to that, which is commonly encountered in additive manufacturing applications in which the 3D printer can print parts containing up to 3 distinct materials that can be selected from a larger suite of usable materials. The material distribution is parameterized via the shape functions with penalization formulation in which a set of activation functions, which are derived from a partition of the unit hypercube, is used to determine the effective local elasticity modulus within a single finite element. Additionally, we introduce an inversep‐norm function, which is used to ensure that the optimized material properties converge to a set of discrete values corresponding to the available candidate materials. The algorithm has been implemented on a set of 2D benchmark problems. Numerical results show that the formulation combining the inversep‐norm function with the activation functions successfully produces optimized multimaterial solutions containing no more than the prescribed number of distinct materials.
Convergence rate of collocation method based on wavelet for nonlinear weakly singular partial integro‐differential equation arising from viscoelasticity
Authors: Singh Somveer , Patel Vijay Kumar , Singh Vineet Kumar
Published: January 2018

The main aim of this research article is to propose and analyze a Legendre wavelet collocation method (LWCM) for the nonlinear weakly singular partial integro‐differential equation (SPIDE) arising from viscoelasticity subject to the given initial and boundary conditions. This problem can be found in the mathematical modeling of physical phenomena involving viscoelastic forces. Operational matrix of integration of Legendre wavelets along with collocation method are utilized to reduce the original SPIDE into the nonlinear system of algebraic equations. Some numerical results are presented to simplify applications of operational matrix formulation and reduce the computational cost. Convergence analysis, numerical stability and rate of convergence (C‐order) of the proposed method are also investigated by considering a test function. Numerical results confirm the predicted convergence rates and also exhibit optimal accuracy in the and norms. Finally, we compare the proposed LWCM with well‐known Crank‐Nicolson and Crandall's methods (for instance, see Table 4).
Cross‐metathesis functionalized exo‐olefin derivatives of lactide
Authors: Sinclair Fern , Shaver Michael P.
Published: January 2018

Poly(lactic acid) is at the forefront of research into alternative replacements to fossil fuel derived polymers, yet preparation of derivatives of this key biodegradable polymer remain challenging. This article explores the use of two derivatives of lactide, each of which features an exocyclic olefin, and their pre‐polymerization modification by olefin cross‐metathesis. Methylenation of lactide with Tebbe's reagent generates a novel 5‐methylenated lactide monomer, (3S,6S)‐3,6‐dimethyl‐5‐methylene‐1,4‐dioxan‐2‐one, complementing the previously reported 3‐methylenated (6S)‐3‐methylene‐6‐methyl‐1,4‐dioxan‐2,5‐dione. While ring‐opening of each monomer is not productive, olefin cross‐metathesis can be used to functionalize each of the exocyclic olefins to produce a family of monomers. The ring‐opening polymerization of these new monomers, and their hydrogenated congeners, is facilitated by organo‐ and Lewis‐acid catalysts. Together, they offer a new strategy for derivatizing and altering the properties of poly(lactic acid). © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 741–748
Microcapsule synthesis via RAFT photopolymerization in vegetable Oil as a green solvent
Authors: Ishizuka Fumi , Stenzel Martina H. , Zetterlund Per B.
Published: January 2018

Polymeric capsules with an aqueous core have great potential for a wide range of applications, for example food/biomedical applications. However, synthesis of such capsules often involves the use of toxic organic solvents. Herein, an organic solvent‐free approach is developed for the synthesis of polymeric microcapsules with an aqueous core. The method is based on RAFT polymerization of divinyl monomer around the periphery of inverse emulsion water droplets acting as templates, with an amphiphilic macroRAFT species fulfilling the dual roles of RAFT agent and colloidal stabilizer. Vegetable oils, which are non‐toxic and renewable, are used as the continuous phase of these inverse emulsions, which are prepared using membrane emulsification to control the emulsion droplet size and size distribution. Relatively monodisperse emulsions with tunable droplet size in the range of approximately 10–30 µm are prepared, followed by the RAFT polymerization step to generate polymeric microcapsules having similar size as the initial droplets. This approach will be beneficial for various applications where toxic solvents need be minimized or removed completely to avoid adverse effects. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 831–839
The influence of nano‐PS particle on structure evolution and electrical properties of PP/PS
Authors: Guo Qiyang , Yang Lichuan , Li Xiaotian , Li Wenfei , Yao Zhanhai
Published: January 2018

The polypropylene‐g‐polystyrene (PP‐g‐PS) copolymers with different grafting ratios are used as compatibilizers to control the size of polystyrene (PS) particles at nanometer scale in polypropylene (PP) matrix. Then the PP/PS insulating nanocomposites (containing 10 wt % PS calculated from PS and PP‐g‐PS) are manufactured. With the increase in grafting ratio of PP‐g‐PS, the size of PS particle is reduced and the interfacial adhesion is enhanced. Meanwhile, the dielectric properties, DC breakdown strength and volume resistivity are increased with the decreasing of PS particle size. The spherulite size of PP is decreased and the boundary between crystals and amorphous regions is blurred or even disappears due to the presence of PS nanoparticles. This evolution of PP structure is attributed to the serious entanglements of PP and PS molecular chains. Finally, the correlation between morphological structure and electrical properties is ultimately established based on the in‐depth understanding of the molecular chain movement, crystal structure, and phase morphology. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 706–717
Fragmentation of Ammonium Nitrate Particles under Thermal Cycling
Authors: Maggi Filippo , Garg Priya
Published: January 2018

Ammonium nitrate finds application in explosives and chlorine‐free slow‐burning propellants. Different phases are known for this ammonium salt, each of them featured by peculiar bulk densities. As a consequence, the variation of storage temperature induces processes of expansion‐contraction in the crystals, unless specific stabilization is performed. In this paper, a batch of raw ammonium nitrate particles has been thermally cycled between −30 °C to +60 °C and analyzed. Microscopic observations, particle size measurement, and X‐ray microtomography showed that the particles undergo a progressive fragmentation process, with opening of internal cracks and voids. The tested material halved its mass‐mean diameter after five thermal cycles. As a term of comparison, a phase‐stabilized ammonium nitrate batch was tested under the same conditions, showing no effect.
Integration of paper spray ionization high‐field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry for forensic applications
Authors: Tsai Chia‐Wei , Tipple Christopher A. , Yost Richard A.
Published: January 2018

Rationale

Paper spray ionization (PSI) is an attractive ambient ionization source for mass spectrometry (MS) since it allows the combination of surface sampling and ionization. The minimal sample preparation inherent in this approach greatly reduces the time needed for analysis. However, the ions generated from interfering compounds in the sample and the paper substrate may interfere with the analyte ions. Therefore, the integration of PSI with high‐field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) is of significant interest since it should reduce the background ions entering the mass analyzer without complicating the analysis or increasing analysis time. Here we demonstrate the integration of PSI with FAIMS/MS and its potential for analysis of samples of forensic interest.

Methods

In this work, the parameters that can influence the integration, including sampling and ionization by paper spray, the FAIMS separation of analytes from each other and background interferences, and the length of time that a usable signal can be observed for explosives on paper, were evaluated with the integrated system.

Results

In the negative ion analysis of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocine (HMX), and 1,3,5‐trinitroperhydro‐1,3,5‐triazine (RDX), amounts as low as 1 ng on paper were readily observed. The successful positive ion separation of a set of illicit drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine was also achieved. In addition, the positive ion analysis of the chemical warfare agent simulants dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) and diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP) was evaluated.

Conclusions

The integration of PSI‐FAIMS/MS was demonstrated for the analyses of explosives in negative ion mode and for illicit drugs and CW simulants in positive mode. Paper background ions that could interfere with these analyses were separated by FAIMS. The compensation voltage of an ion obtained by FAIMS provided an additional identification parameter to be combined with the mass spectrum for each analyte.
Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in U.S. milk: Insight into production process
Authors: Bostic Joshua N. , Hagopian William M. , Jahren A. Hope
Published: January 2018

Rationale

Stable isotope analysis (SIA), a potential method of verifying the geographic origin and production method of dairy products, has not been applied to United States (U.S.) dairy samples on a national scale. To determine the potential of carbon and nitrogen SIA in authenticity assessment of U.S. dairy products, we analyzed a geographically representative collection of conventional milk samples to determine isotopic variations with (1) Purchase Location and (2) Macronutrient Content.

Methods

A total of 136 milk samples spanning five commercially available varieties (3.25% [i.e., 'whole'], 2%, 1%, 0% [i.e., 'skim'] and 1% chocolate) were collected from randomly selected counties across the U.S. as part of the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) National Food and Nutrient Analysis program. δ13C and δ15N values of bulk samples determined via elemental analysis/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA/IRMS) were used to assess the contribution of fat content, added sugar content and census‐designated region of collection to isotopic variations within the dataset.

Results

There was a negative linear relationship between fat content and δ13C values, with average milk δ13C values decreasing by 0.33‰ for each 8.75% increase in dry weight (1% wet weight) fat content. The average δ13C value of flavored 1% chocolate milk samples, which contain an additional 12 g of added sugar, was 2.05‰ higher than that of 1% unflavored milk (−16.47‰ for chocolate milk vs −18.52‰ for unflavored milk). When controlling for macronutrient content, milk samples collected in West region supermarkets possessed significantly lower δ13C values than samples collected from Midwest, South, and Northeast regions. δ15N values did not vary with macronutrient content or region of collection.

Conclusions

Carbon stable isotope ratios in U.S. milk samples varied with macronutrient content and region of purchase, suggesting that SIA can provide insight into production processes within the U.S. dairy industry, with potential applications in national food adulteration and authentication efforts.
Human T‐lymphotropic virus type 1 infection and solid organ transplantation
Authors: Taylor Graham P.
Published: January 2018

HTLV infection appears to be more common among renal transplant candidates than in the related general population. HTLV‐1‐associated diseases may occur in carriers who are transplanted but there is insufficient evidence to confirm whether these occur more frequently as a result of the associated immunosuppression. Consequently, pre‐existing HTLV‐1 infection should not be considered a contra‐indication to transplantation.

The risk of transmission of HTLV‐1 through solid organ transplantation from a confirmed infected donor is unknown. There are anecdotes of multiple infections from a single donor. Biologically due to the significant volume of blood and the lack of storage, transmission would be expected to be higher than following blood transfusion. The rate of subsequent disease is unknown, but there are now 11 reports of HAM and 2 of ATL occurring within 4 years of transplantation associated infection. There are insufficient data to know whether the time from infection to onset of disease and the rate of progression differ from transmission through other routes, but early onset and rapid progression is a concern. Responses to enhanced immunosuppression for the treatment of HAM are variable.

The risk of HTLV‐1 associated disease in exchange for a life‐saving major organ transplantation from an infected donor might be considered worth taking by some HTLV‐1 uninfected patients. Peri‐transplantation antiretroviral prophylaxis with zidovudine and raltegravir is biologically sound but therapeutically unproven. The risks related to HTLV‐1 infection appear to preclude the use of any other tissue. All transplant donors should be screened for HTLV‐1 infection regardless of perceived risk.
Hydrogels: Promising Energy Storage Materials
Authors: Singh Ram , Veer Babita
Published: January 2018

Energy is essential for the economic growth of any country. There is a strong demand for the development of materials that can show potential towards higher power density and energy density. In this article, a promising class of polymeric materials, hydrogels have been discussed as an energy storage material. The hydrogels are advantageous as they possess in them the unique combination of organic conductors and conventional polymers. The article covers the synthetic approach of hydrogels which includes both the conventional synthesis and the new routes adopted followed by the application of hydrogels as energy storage materials. Finally, the future opportunities and prospects in the development of hydrogels as advanced energy storage materials are highlighted.
Chebyshev chaotic map‐based ID‐based cryptographic model using subtree and fuzzy‐entity data sharing for public key cryptography
Authors: Meshram Chandrashekhar , Obaidat Mohammad S. , Meshram Sarita G.
Published: January 2018

Recently, chaos has been dealt with as a decent approach to reduce computational complexity while fulfilling security necessities of a cryptographic technique. Cloud storage brings strong conveniences for adaptable data sharing. When sharing data with a large number of entities described with fuzzy identities, the data proprietors must use an appropriate ID‐based cryptographic (IBC) technique to meet the security and efficiency prerequisites. IBC is a promising candidate to make sure fuzzy‐entity data sharing while meeting the security prerequisite, but encounters the efficiency difficulty in multi‐receiver settings. In IBC technique distributing public keys for individually entity, technique allows separately entity to select his/her network address or name as her/his public key. This is valuable to public key cryptographic (PKC) technique in light of the fact that the public key confirmation is so informal and direct. In such a mode, a huge public key document is not compulsory. Subsequently novel PKC technique dependably confront security encounters accordingly, the aim of this article is to outline and examination of conversion mechanism subtree and fuzzy‐entity data sharing that can transfer PKC's using Chebyshev chaotic map into the IBC technique as opposed to re‐concoct another framework. Also, no adjustment of the first Chebyshev chaotic map‐based PKC's is vital.
Synergism Effect of Surfactant and Inorganic Salt on the Properties of Starch/Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Film
Authors: Sun Yujun , Lin Zhen , Jiang Xiancai , Hou Linxi
Published: January 2018

The starch/PVA films with the addition of 30 wt.% Ca(NO3)2 and different content of Tween 20 are prepared by solution casting. The effect of Ca(NO3)2 on the crystalline, thermal, and mechanical properties of starch/PVA film is studied by X‐ray diffraction measurement, differential scanning calorimetry and tensile testing, respectively. The effect of Tween 20 on the properties of Ca(NO3)2 doped starch/PVA film is studied. The water sorption properties and the water vapor barrier properties of starch/PVA films are studied. The results shows that Ca(NO3)2 can effectively destroy the crystals of starch and PVA. The Ca(NO3)2 doped starch/PVA film shows a high water sorption rate and low water vapor barrier properties. Tween 20 can increase the water resisting properties and increase the flexibility of Ca(NO3)2 doped starch/PVA film. With the combination of Ca(NO3)2 and Tween 20 the flexible starch/PVA film with a high water resisting ability is obtained.
Influence of Precipitation Conditions on Crystallinity of Amylose Nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Xiaoxia , Chang Yanjiao , Wang Qian , Fu Youjia , Ren Lili , Zhou Jiang
Published: January 2018

Amylose nanoparticles are prepared via precipitation by dropping absolute ethanol into amylose paste. X‐ray diffraction analysis reveales that the amylose nanoparticles display V‐type crystalline structure, and crystallinity of the amylose nanoparticles is dependent upon precipitation conditions, that is, temperature of amylose paste, ethanol dropping rate, and length of amylose chains. Dropping ethanol of 20 °C into amylose paste of 90 °C at a rate of 5 mL min−1 promotes the molecular association of amylose and ethanol into a helical complex and forms more amylose single helices in the precipitated amylose nanoparticles, which results in a higher crystallinity (60.72%) after the amylose nanoparticles are dried at 4 °C for 12 h and then at 40 °C for 12 h under 11% relative humidity. Shorter amylose chains may be unfavorable to complex formation between amylose and ethanol. The findings of this study provide a guideline to prepare amylose nanoparticles with higher crystallinity via precipitation.
Optimal allocation of intermittent distributed generators in active distribution network
Authors: Li Ke , Zhang Shenxi , Tai Nengling , Chen Xi
Published: January 2018

Nowadays, intermittent distributed generators (IDGs), represented by distributed wind turbine generators and photovoltaic generators, are developing rapidly. A multi‐scenario mathematical model with the objective of minimizing the annual carbon emission is proposed for the optimal allocation of IDGs in the active distribution network (ADN). The model takes into account three active measures, i.e. regulating the on‐load tap changer of the transformer, curtailing the active power of IDGs, and regulating the power factor of IDGs. K‐means clustering method is introduced to reduce the number of scenarios and obtain the probability of each scenario. A hybrid solving strategy combining the adaptive genetic algorithm and primal‐dual interior point method is developed to solve the model. Case studies are carried out on the IEEE 33‐bus ADN. The optimal allocation schemes under different cases are compared, and the potential contribution of carbon emission reduction from active measures is studied. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Leptospirosis: a leisure and occupational hazard
Authors: Brightman Christopher
Published: January 2018

Leptospirosis, or Weil's disease as it commonly known, is a rare infection contracted from the urine of animals, usually rats. River and lake water can be contaminated and poses a risk for the increasing number of open‐water swimmers.
Adrenal Ganglioneuroma: Features and Outcomes of 42 Cases in a Chinese Population
Authors: Xie Jing , Dai Jun , Zhou Wen‐long , Sun Fu‐kang
Published: January 2018

Background

Adrenal ganglioneuromas (AGNs) are extremely rare benign neoplasms. This study is to share our experience regarding diagnostic and operative management of these tumors.

Methods

Clinical details as well as follow‐up data were retrospectively analyzed in 42 primary AGN patients who received operative resection at a tertiary referral hospital in China between May 2005 and July 2016.

Results

The mean age of the patients at diagnosis was 35.3 years (range 13–59 years). Among the patients, 28 were asymptomatic. The mean preoperative size was 5.3 ± 2.2 cm (range 2.1–14.0 cm), and 17 cases were larger than 5 cm. All patients underwent operative resection as open adrenalectomy in 20 patients and laparoscopy in 22 patients. The mean tumor size on pathologic examination was 6.0 ± 2.6 cm (range 2.2–17.0 cm). Laparoscopic operation showed its advantages over open surgery on the postoperative duration (5.0 vs. 7.3 days, p < 0.001) and estimated blood loss (69.5 vs. 157.5 ml, p = 0.047). No patient had recurrence or metastasis during a median follow‐up of 70.5 months (range 3.7–164.3 months).

Conclusions

We describe the largest AGN series reported to date. The preoperative diagnosis of AGN remains difficult despite of the progression of imaging examination. After complete resection, the prognosis of AGN patients is excellent. Laparoscopic approach has its advantages in the resection of AGNs.
Prospective Randomized Trial of Use of In‐House Prepared Low‐Cost Radiopharmaceutical Versus Commercial Radiopharmaceutical for Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Patients with Early Stage Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Agarwal Gaurav , Rajan Sendhil , Mayilvaganan Sabaretnam , Mishra Anjali , Krishnani Narendra , Gambhir Sanjay
Published: January 2018

Background

The current standard‐of‐care for surgical staging of the axilla in clinically node‐negative (N0) early breast cancers is sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), which requires expensive radiopharmaceuticals for efficacious results. In‐house produced low‐cost radiopharmaceuticals may be the solution and have shown efficacy in earlier observational/pilot studies. We compared SLNB using in‐house prepared radiopharmaceutical (99mTc‐Antimony‐colloid) versus commercially marketed radiopharmaceutical (99mTc‐Sulphur‐colloid) in this prospective randomized study.

Study Design

78 clinically N0 early breast cancer patients (T1/2, N0 stages), undergoing primary surgery were prospectively randomized 1:1 into two groups; to receive SLNB using methylene blue, and either 99mTc‐Antimony colloid (Group‐1) or 99mTc‐Sulphur colloid (Group‐2). Completion axillary dissection was done in all (validation SLNB). SLNB indices were compared between the groups.

Results

The groups were comparable with regard to age, stage, tumour size, hormone receptors and HER2neu status. Cost of the in‐house prepared 99mTc‐antimony colloid was 16‐times lesser compared to 99mTc‐sulphur colloid. SLN identification rates (IR) in Groups 1 and 2 were 100 and 97.4% respectively, (p > 0.05). False negative rates (FNR) in Group 1 and 2 were 6.3% (1/16 patients) and 7.7% (1/13 patients), respectively, (p > 0.05). There were no major allergic reactions in either group.

Conclusion

In this prospective randomized trial on early breast cancer patients, accuracy of SLNB was comparable using in‐house prepared, 99mTc‐antimony colloid and commercially marketed 99mTc‐sulphur colloid as radiopharmaceutical, while 99mTc‐antimony colloid was much cheaper than 99mTc‐sulphur colloid.
Rational design of a synthetic Entner–Doudoroff pathway for enhancing glucose transformation to isobutanol in Escherichia coli
Authors: Liang Shaoxiong , Chen Hong , Liu Jiao , Wen Jianping
Published: January 2018

Isobutanol as a more desirable biofuel has attracted much attention. In our previous work, an isobutanol-producing strain Escherichia coli LA09 had been obtained by rational redox status improvement under guidance of the genome-scale metabolic model. However, the low transformation from sugar to isobutanol is a limiting factor for isobutanol production by E. coli LA09. In this study, the intracellular metabolic profiles of the isobutanol-producing E. coli LA09 with different initial glucose concentrations were investigated and the metabolic reaction of fructose 6-phosphate to 1, 6-diphosphate fructose in glycolytic pathway was identified as the rate-limiting step of glucose transformation. Thus, redesigned carbon catabolism was implemented by altering flux of sugar metabolism. Here, the heterologous Entner–Doudoroff (ED) pathway from Zymomonas mobilis was constructed, and the adaptation of upper and lower parts of ED pathway was further improved with artificial promoters to alleviate the accumulation of toxic intermediate metabolite 2-keto-3-deoxy-6-phospho-gluconate (KDPG). Finally, the best isobutanol-producing E. coli ED02 with higher glucose transformation and isobutanol production was obtained. In the fermentation of strain E. coli ED02 with 45 g/L initial glucose, the isobutanol titer, yield and average producing rate were, respectively, increased by 56.8, 47.4 and 88.1% to 13.67 g/L, 0.50 C-mol/C-mol and 0.456 g/(L × h) in a shorter time of 30 h, compared with that of the starting strain E. coli LA09.
Urban robotics and responsible urban innovation
Authors: Nagenborg Michael
Published: January 2018

Robots are leaving factories and entering urban spaces. In this paper, I will explore how we can integrate robots of various types into the urban landscape. I will distinguish between two perspectives: (1) the responsible design and use of urban robots and (2) robots as part of responsible urban innovations. The first viewpoint considers issues arising from the use of a robot in an urban environment. To develop a substantive understanding of Responsible Urban Robotics, we need to focus on normative implications of city life as the context in which in robots are being used. I will refer to the desirable qualities of city life as “cityness” and will argue that we should design for cityness. The second approach asks how robots might be used to address challenges specific to cities. From the perspective of RRI, this may require participatory approaches in which the needs of the stakeholders are addressed. But we may also find inspiration in the work undertaken in architecture on expanding the concept and field to ensure that architects not only provide services to the lucky few but also create useful and beautiful spaces for the many. A dialogue with architects, urban designers, and urban planners may also be needed to successfully address the spatial issues raised by the presence of robots in the city.
Talking with Children About Adult‐Onset Hereditary Cancer Risk: A Developmental Approach for Parents
Authors: Werner‐Lin Allison , Merrill Shana L. , Brandt Amanda C.
Published: January 2018

Families often express difficulty to their providers and request guidance regarding the task of communicating with children about potential adult‐onset inherited cancer risks. This disclosure is often complicated by the parent's ongoing adjustment to their mutation status, guilt at potential transmission of the mutation to the child, concern over inciting distress in children, and the varied capacities of children in the home to understand genetic information. Providers often do not have adequate resources to support or facilitate disclosure of genetic test results to children. Optimally, communication about inherited cancer risk is an open, ongoing process within the family. We recommend that parents tailor conversations to the child's developmental, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral abilities to support comprehension. Based on well‐established theories of child development, empirical research on family communication of hereditary cancer risk, and clinical counseling experience, we offer recommendations for parental disclosure of genetic risk to children, case examples with critical discussion of relevant topics, common child questions with sample scripted responses, and additional printed and online resources.
Patient, Provider, and Practice Characteristics Associated with Inappropriate Antimicrobial Prescribing in Ambulatory Practices
Authors: Schmidt Monica L. , Spencer Melanie D. , Davidson Lisa E.
Published: January 2018

OBJECTIVE

To reduce inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing across ambulatory care, understanding the patient-, provider-, and practice-level characteristics associated with antibiotic prescribing is essential. In this study, we aimed to elucidate factors associated with inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing across urgent care, family medicine, and pediatric and internal medicine ambulatory practices.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Data for this retrospective cohort study were collected from outpatient visits for common upper respiratory conditions that should not require antibiotics. The cohort included 448,990 visits between January 2014 and May 2016. Carolinas HealthCare System urgent care, family medicine, internal medicine and pediatric practices were included across 898 providers and 246 practices.

METHODS

Prescribing rates were reported per 1,000 visits. Indications were defined using theInternational Classification of Disease, Ninth and Tenth Revisions, Clinical Modification(ICD-9/10-CM) criteria. In multivariable models, the risk of receiving an antibiotic prescription was reported with adjustment for practice, provider, and patient characteristics.

RESULTS

The overall prescribing rate in the study cohort was 407 per 1,000 visits (95% confidence interval [CI], 405–408). After adjustment, adult patients seen by an advanced practice practitioner were 15% more likely to receive an antimicrobial than those seen by a physician provider (incident risk ratio [IRR], 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03–1.29). In the pediatric sample, older providers were 4 times more likely to prescribe an antimicrobial than providers aged ≤30 years (IRR, 4.21; 95% CI, 2.96–5.97).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that patient, practice, and provider characteristics are associated with inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing. Future research should target antibiotic stewardship programs to specific patient and provider populations to reduce inappropriate prescribing compared to a “one size fits all” approach.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2018;39:307–315
Teachers’ Use of Psycho-Educational Reports in Mainstream Classrooms
Authors: Lindelauf Joanne , Reupert Andrea , Jacobs Kate E.
Published: January 2018

This study investigated how teachers who support children with learning difficulties utilise psychologists’ reports in their teaching practice. Previous research has examined teachers’ preferences for how reports should be written, rather than how they might be used. Semi-structured, qualitative interviews with 12 teachers (seven primary, four high school and one preschool teacher) were undertaken and followed up with member checks and interrater reliability. Findings suggested that while the teachers valued the recommendations section of the report, they were also interested in other sections, particularly information about the student's background. Simultaneously, teachers used information from reports selectively in relation to their own professional knowledge and in collaboration with other stakeholders. Implications for practice and further research are discussed.
Systematic Review of Clinician-Reported Barriers to Provision of Smoking Cessation Interventions in Hospital Inpatient Settings
Authors: Sharpe Tom , Alsahlanee Ali , Ward Ken D. , Doyle Frank
Published: January 2018

Background: Although the hospital inpatient setting arguably provides an ideal opportunity to engage patients in smoking cessation interventions, this is done infrequently. We therefore aimed to systematically review the perceived barriers to the implementation of smoking cessation interventions in the hospital inpatient setting.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted specific to hospital-based healthcare workers’ perceived barriers to implementing smoking cessation interventions. Reported barriers were categorised using the capability, opportunity and motivation (COM-B) framework.

Results: Eighteen studies were selected for inclusion, which consisted of cross-sectional surveys and interviews. The most commonly identified barrier in capability was lack of knowledge (56% of studies); in Opportunity, it was a lack of time (78%); while in Motivation, a lack of perceived patient motivation to quit smoking (44%). Seventeen other barriers were also endorsed, but less frequently.

Conclusion: Healthcare workers report a plethora of barriers to providing smoking cessation interventions in hospital settings, which cover all aspects of the COM-B framework. These impediments need to be addressed in a multidisciplinary approach, at clinical, educational, and administrative levels, to improve intervention provision.
Wanting, and Weighting: White Women and Descriptive Representation in the 2016 Presidential Election
Authors: Phillips Christian
Published: January 2018

This paper demonstrates that the relationship between wanting a descriptive representative based on gender, and giving that attitude weight in voting decisions, is weakest among White women voters. Among under-represented groups of voters, White women were uniquely positioned going into the 2016 presidential election—they had the option to choose “one of their own” in terms of race and gender. Yet, the majority did not vote for the White woman on the ballot, Hillary Rodham Clinton. This outcome is an opportunity to interrogate how descriptive representation functions in different ways across groups with distinct socio-political positions in American politics. I argue that the relationship between desiring descriptive representation, and giving it weight when deciding for whom to vote for, is different across groups. Using American National Election Survey (ANES) data, I show that this is the case in the 2016 election. Nearly two-thirds of White women who said that electing more women is important, voted for Trump. Moreover, White women's espoused belief in the necessity of electing more women had no significant effect on their ultimate vote choice. In contrast, the same desire for increased descriptive representation based on gender had large, positive, and significant effects on women of color's vote choice. This study bears on extant research considering descriptive representation's importance to voters based only on race, or gender, and on the broader literature linking group identities and voter behavior.
The Hundred Largest Employers in the Russian Empire, circa 1913
Authors: Kulikov Volodymyr
Published: January 2018

The article analyzes a list of the hundred largest private and state-owned employers in the Russian Empire in 1913. It explains the validity of sources underlying the data and contributes to the methodological debates concerning the interpretation of such lists. It examines the geographical and sectoral distribution as well as the ownership structure of the largest Russian employers in a comparative context, using lists from Germany and the United Kingdom. The annexed list contributes to a more representative dataset of large firms beyond western Europe and therefore adds to the discussion on the rise of big business.
HEAD RICE YIELD OF CROPS HARVESTED BY COMBINE AND HAND AT DIFFERENT RIPENING TIMES IN CAMBODIA
Authors: BUNNA SOM , SEREYVUTH HOURN , SOMALY YIM , NGOY NGON , MENGSRY LOAN , CHEA SARETH , OUK MAKARA , MITCHELL JAQUIE , FUKAI SHU
Published: January 2018

Experiments were conducted across 2 years to determine the effect of harvesting methods – combine harvester and hand harvesting – and harvest time during ripening on milling quality of long grain rice grown in the rainfed lowland ecosystem in Cambodia. Head rice yield (HRY) was highest when rice was harvested 25 days after flowering and decreased with delay in harvesting at 35 and 45 days after flowering. This was accompanied by a general decline in grain moisture content at harvest, although it was still high at 24–25% at 35 days after flowering. The decline in HRY was associated with increases in fissured grain percentage observed immediately after harvest. Hand harvesting produced 2–6% higher HRY than combine harvesting. Fissured grain in hand harvested crops was lower in year 1, but was similar to combine harvested crops in year 2. Both hand and combine harvested crops were sun-dried but rough rice harvested by combine was dried on plastic sheet and this may have contributed to reduction in HRY. Maximum HRY percentage was only about 44% and the factors contributing to this low HRY were discussed. Harvesting time and methods had no significant effect on grain yield, but the field grain loss during the harvesting operation was 2–5% higher in combine than hand harvesting.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HIV AWARENESS FACTORS, HEALTH FACILITY CHARACTERISTICS AND RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUNG WOMEN IN ZOMBA DISTRICT, MALAWI
Authors: Ward-Peterson Melissa , Fennie Kristopher , Baird Sarah , Coxe Stefany , Trepka Mary Jo , Madhivanan Purnima
Published: January 2018

The objective of this study was to examine the association between multilevel factors related to HIV awareness and risky sexual behaviour among young women in Zomba district, Malawi. Secondary analyses of the Schooling, Income, and Health Risk (SIHR) study were undertaken. Four outcomes related to risky sexual behaviour were examined among young women: if participants had ever had sex, consistent condom use and two scores measuring risk related to partner history and age during sexual activity. Independent variables included individual-level factors such as education and rural/urban residence, as well as higher-level factors such as household’s highest level of education and health facility characteristics. Regression models with cluster-robust standard errors and multilevel regression models were used to estimate associations; analyses were stratified into two strata by school enrolment status, i.e. whether the women were in school (N=1407) or had dropped out of school (N=407) at baseline of the SIHR study. For both strata, increasing age and residing within 16 km of an urban centre (‘near rural’ residence) increased the odds of ever having sex; lower educational achievement was associated with lower age during sexual activity. A history of pregnancy was associated with lower odds of condom use and riskier partner history. For women in school at baseline, lower household education was associated with higher odds of ever having sex (OR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.06, 2.07); near-rural and far-rural (≤16 km and >16km from urban centre, respectively) residence were associated with decreased odds of condom use (OR=0.47; 95% CI: 0.28, 0.78; and OR=0.27; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.65, respectively). For those not in school at baseline, lower household education was associated with lower age during sexual activity (β=0.31, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.58). Also for women not in school, the use of private or non-governmental health facilities was associated with decreased odds of condom use (OR=0.51, 95% CI: 0.39, 0.67) and higher age during sexual activity (β=−0.30, 95% CI: −0.52, −0.09). While individual factors were associated with risky sexual behaviour in both strata, contextual factors differed.
The Alfvénic nature of energy transfer mediation in localized, strongly nonlinear Alfvén wavepacket collisions
Authors: Verniero J. L. , Howes G. G.
Published: January 2018

In space and astrophysical plasmas, violent events or instabilities inject energy into turbulent motions at large scales. Nonlinear interactions among the turbulent fluctuations drive a cascade of energy to small perpendicular scales at which the energy is ultimately converted into plasma heat. Previous work with the incompressible magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations has shown that this turbulent energy cascade is driven by the nonlinear interaction between counterpropagating Alfvén waves – also known as Alfvén wave collisions. Direct numerical simulations of weakly collisional plasma turbulence enables deeper insight into the nature of the nonlinear interactions underlying the turbulent cascade of energy. In this paper, we directly compare four cases: both periodic and localized Alfvén wave collisions in the weakly and strongly nonlinear limits. Our results reveal that in the more realistic case of localized Alfvén wave collisions (rather than the periodic case), all nonlinearly generated fluctuations are Alfvén waves, which mediates nonlinear energy transfer to smaller perpendicular scales.