bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between VOC fingerprinting and antimicrobial activity of several essential oils extracted by plant resins against A. tumefaciens and P. savastanoi
Authors: Caparrotta Stefania , Comparini Diego , Marone Elettra , Kimmenfield Rebecca , Luzzietti Laura , Taiti Cosimo , Mancuso Stefano
Published: July 2019

The present work aimed to assess the antimicrobial activity of twelve essential oils extracted from plant resins of trees that grow in several tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Eleven essential oils were extracted from resins of plant belonging to the Burseraceae family (the genera Boswellia, Commiphora, Canarium and Bursera); the remaining oil was extracted from a resinous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family (genus Hymenea). The extraction was carried out using a conventional distillation method. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of each essential oil were analyzed with PTR‐ToF‐MS (proton transfer reaction time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry) and the antimicrobial activity was evaluated against the phytopathogens Agrobacterium tumefaciens and Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi. The essential oils obtained from Boswellia papyrifera, B. dalzielii, B. frereana and B. rivae were the most abundant in terms of signal intensity and VOC number in comparison with the other analyzed essential oils. Furthermore, B. neglecta shared a common volatile profile with the Canarium species, as was demonstrated previously in the literature. Greater bacterial growth inhibition of A. tumefaciens was detected with the essential oils extracted from plants belonging to Boswellia species while less action was observed against P. savastanoi. Finally, a positive correlation was found between terpenes and terpenoid compounds and bacterial growth inhibition, suggesting these essential oils as a new source of bioactive compounds for the prevention, protection and treatment of plant diseases.
Financial market imperfections and profitability: New evidence from a large panel of US SME firms
Authors: Apergis Nicholas
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates the impact of financial market imperfections on small and medium‐sized enterprise (SME) firms' profitability by using a unique panel data of US SME firms, spanning the period 1979–2017. The data set makes use of unique information on proxies of market imperfections pertaining to each firm in the sample. First, the findings document the statistical impact of those financial market imperfections on profitability. Moreover, the forecasting exercise illustrate the superiority of the model that explicitly includes those proxies.
Unwinding Entangled Degradation Mechanisms in Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells Through Electrode Modifications and Impedance Analysis
Authors: Rao M. , Jensen S. H. , Sun X. , Hagen A.
Published: July 2019

In the renewable energy scenario, energy storage is of essence. In this context, power‐to‐liquid (PtL) and power‐to‐gas (PtG) concepts have attracted large attention, where the use of solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) has a huge potential, due to their high conversion efficiencies. However, performance and durability of these cells still need to be improved for a large‐scale commercialization of the SOEC technology. It is often difficult to identify the various loss and degradation mechanisms limiting the cell performance and durability. This paper contributes to this scientific discussion, by providing a careful analysis of the degradation mechanisms occurring in three different cells during long‐term H2O and CO2 co‐electrolysis, at 1,200 mV. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is measured before, during and after the electrolysis operation, and is utilized to address the individual electrode degradation mechanisms and the development of leaks through the electrolyte. Moreover, the leak rates under open circuit voltage (OCV) measurements were compared. In addition, microstructural analysis of the electrodes and electrolytes is related to the electrochemical findings to contribute to the discussion on the interdependency of the degradation mechanisms.
Impact of cavity chord shape on the free convection heat transfer rate in a triangular cavity
Authors: Rabani Mehran
Published: July 2019

In this study, the effect of different chord shapes of a triangular cavity has been investigated on the natural convection heat transfer characteristics inside the cavity using the commercial ANSYS‐FLUENT software. Heat transfer phenomena have been regarded as very significant due to the widespread application of natural convection heat transfer in different engineering fields. According to the performed studies, the chord with partitions can considerably enhance the natural convection heat transfer rate inside the cavity. Four different types of partitions including zigzag, two types of rectangular and sinusoidal were considered on the chord of the triangular cavity. The dimensionless parameters investigated in the results include Rayleigh number, Prandtl number, and Nusselt number. The results comprise the isotherm lines, streamlines, velocity lines, local and average Nusselt numbers analyzed with regard to the chord type and Rayleigh number variation. The results revealed that the temperature trend is almost the same for all configurations. Furthermore, the average Nusselt number value in zigzag and sinusoidal is higher in comparison with other cases due to the larger heat transfer area. Finally, by examining the streamlines, isotherm and velocity lines, average and local Nusselt numbers, it was founded that the cavities with zigzag and sinusoidal chord shape have the better performance in terms of heat transfer rate.
Heat transfer enhancement using hybrid nanofluids in spiral plate heat exchangers
Authors: Returi Madhuri Charulatha , Konijeti Ramakrishna , Dasore Abhishek
Published: July 2019

A possible way to enhance the rate of heat transfer in the spiral plate heat exchanger (SPHE) is by employing hybrid nanofluids as its working medium. Hence, in the present work, effects of hybrid nanofluids on the thermal performance of SPHE has been investigated numerically. First, a countercurrent SPHE is designed and modeled. Later, simulation of SPHE has been carried out by employing conventional fluid , nanofluids , and hybrid nanofluids to investigate the heat transfer rates. Finally, the performance of SPHE using hybrid nanofluid is compared with that of using water and nanofluids. The heat transfer augmentation of approximately 16%‐27% with hybrid nanofluids of overall 4% nanoparticles volume concentration and 10%‐16% with 2% nanoparticles volume concentration is observed when compared with that of pure water. Therefore, it can be inferred that the application of hybrid nanofluids in SPHE seems to be one of the promising solutions for augmentation of its thermal performance.
Blood pressure and risk of cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition
Authors: Christakoudi Sofia , Kakourou Artemisia , Markozannes Georgios , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Weiderpass Elisabete , Brennan Paul , Gunter Marc , Dahm Christina C. , Overvad Kim , Olsen Anja , Tjønneland Anne , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Madika Anne‐Laure , Severi Gianluca , Katzke Verena , Kühn Tilman , Bergmann Manuela M. , Boeing Heiner , Karakatsani Anna , Martimianaki Georgia , Thriskos Paschalis , Masala Giovanna , Sieri Sabina , Panico Salvatore , Tumino Rosario , Ricceri Fulvio , Agudo Antonio , Redondo‐Sánchez Daniel , Colorado‐Yohar Sandra M. , Mokoroa Olatz , Melander Olle , Stocks Tanja , Häggström Christel , Harlid Sophia , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita Bas , van Gils Carla H. , Vermeulen Roel C.H. , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Wareham Nicholas J. , Tong Tammy Y.N. , Freisling Heinz , Johansson Mattias , Lennon Hannah , Aune Dagfinn , Riboli Elio , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Trichopoulou Antonia , Tsilidis Konstantinos K.
Published: July 2019

Several studies have reported associations of hypertension with cancer, but not all results were conclusive. We examined the association of systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure with the development of incident cancer at all anatomical sites in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). Hazard ratios (HRs) (95% confidence intervals) were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, stratified by EPIC‐participating center and age at recruitment, and adjusted for sex, education, smoking, body mass index, physical activity, diabetes and dietary (in women also reproductive) factors. The study included 307,318 men and women, with an average follow‐up of 13.7 (standard deviation 4.4) years and 39,298 incident cancers. We confirmed the expected positive association with renal cell carcinoma: HR = 1.12 (1.08–1.17) per 10 mm Hg higher SBP and HR = 1.23 (1.14–1.32) for DBP. We additionally found positive associations for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): HR = 1.16 (1.07–1.26) (SBP), HR = 1.31 (1.13–1.51) (DBP), weaker for head and neck cancers: HR = 1.08 (1.04–1.12) (SBP), HR = 1.09 (1.01–1.17) (DBP) and, similarly, for skin SCC, colon cancer, postmenopausal breast cancer and uterine adenocarcinoma (AC), but not for esophageal AC, lung SCC, lung AC or uterine endometroid cancer. We observed weak inverse associations of SBP with cervical SCC: HR = 0.91 (0.82–1.00) and lymphomas: HR = 0.97 (0.93–1.00). There were no consistent associations with cancers in other locations. Our results are largely compatible with published studies and support weak associations of blood pressure with cancers in specific locations and morphologies.
Family history of prostate cancer and the incidence of ERG‐ and phosphatase and tensin homolog‐defined prostate cancer
Authors: Hashim Dana , Gonzalez‐Feliciano Amparo G. , Ahearn Thomas U. , Pettersson Andreas , Barber Lauren , Pernar Claire H. , Ebot Ericka M. , Isikbay Masis , Finn Stephen P. , Giovannucci Edward L. , Lis Rosina T. , Loda Massimo , Parmigiani Giovanni , Lotan Tamara , Kantoff Philip W. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Graff Rebecca E.
Published: July 2019

Family history is among the strongest known risk factors for prostate cancer (PCa). Emerging data suggest molecular subtypes of PCa, including two somatic genetic aberrations: fusions of androgen‐regulated promoters with ERG and, separately, phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) loss. We examined associations between family history and incidence of these subtypes in 44,126 men from the prospective Health Professionals Follow‐up Study. ERG and PTEN status were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Multivariable competing risks models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between self‐reported family history of PCa and molecular subtypes of disease. Thirteen percent of men had a positive family history of PCa at baseline. During a median follow‐up of 18.5 years, 5,511 PCa cases were diagnosed. Among them, 888 were assayed for ERG status (47% ERG‐positive) and 715 were assayed for PTEN loss (14% PTEN null). Family history was more strongly associated with risk of ERG‐negative (HR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.71–2.70) than ERG‐positive (HR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.13–1.95) disease (pheterogeneity: 0.04). The strongest difference was among men with an affected father (HRERG‐negative: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.64–2.66; HRERG‐positive: 1.30; 95% CI: 0.96–1.76; pheterogeneity: 0.01). Family history of PCa was positively associated with both PTEN null (HR: 2.10; 95% CI: 1.26–3.49) and PTEN intact (HR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.39–2.13) PCa (pheterogeneity: 0.47). Our results indicate that PCa family history may be positively associated with PCa in all ERG and PTEN subtypes, suggesting a role of genetic susceptibility in their development. It is possible that ERG‐negative disease could be especially associated with positive family history.
Teenage Childbearing, Reproductive Justice, and Infant Mental Health
Authors: Hans Sydney L. , White Barbara A.
Published: July 2019

Reproductive justice advocates emphasize the rights of women to choose to have children, to decide the conditions under which they give birth, and to parent their children with support, safety, and dignity. This article examines what a reproductive justice perspective contributes to infant mental health work with teenage mothers and their families. It explores the historical framing of teenage pregnancy in which young mothers are the cause of a variety of social problems and in which the primary policy and practice approach is pregnancy prevention. The article offers alternative framings of teenage childbearing, based on reproductive justice principles, which focus on social conditions surrounding teenage parenthood and the meaning of motherhood in the lives of young women. These alternative frames shift the practice agenda to eradicating unjust social conditions and providing supports for young women in their roles as parents. The article then describes ways in which two infant mental health programs have incorporated reproductive justice principles into their work with young families: Chicago's community doula model and Florida's Young Parents Project for court‐involved teenage parents. Finally, the article extracts a set of principles deriving from a reproductive justice perspective that are relevant to infant mental health work with young families.
GATA‐3 in T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Murga‐Zamalloa Carlos , Wilcox Ryan A.
Published: July 2019

GATA‐3 regulates the differentiation, proliferation, survival, and function of peripheral T cells and their thymic progenitors. Recent findings, reviewed here, not only implicate GATA‐3 in the pathogenesis of molecularly, genetically, and clinically distinct T‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders, but also have significant diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications.
Circular RNA hsa_circRNA_103809 promoted hepatocellular carcinoma development by regulating miR‐377‐3p/FGFR1/ERK axis
Authors: Zhan Wei , Liao Xin , Chen Zhongsheng , Li Lianghe , Tian Tian , Yu Lei , Wang Wei , Hu Qiyan
Published: July 2019

In the last decade, circular RNAs (circRNAs) emerge as important regulators in multiple biological processes. Lately, it is reported hsa_circRNA_103809 could play vital parts in several types of cancers. Based on the analysis of GEO data (GSE97332), hsa_circRNA_103809 was found to be dysregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the biological function and underlying regulatory mechanisms of hsa_circRNA_103809 in HCC remain unclear. Our results suggested that hsa_circRNA_103809 was overexpressed in HCC patients, and hsa_circRNA_103809 knockdown remarkably inhibited the proliferation, cycle progression, and migration of HCC cells. The investigations of molecular showed that hsa_circRNA_103809 could elevate the protein expression of a miR‐377‐3p target, fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), through interacting with miR‐377‐3p and decreasing its expression level. Additionally, in vivo assays revealed hsa_circRNA_103809 short hairpin RNA served as a tumor suppressor through downregulating FGFR1 in HCC. This study systematically investigated novel regulatory signaling of hsa_circRNA_103809/miR‐377‐3p/FGFR1 axis, providing insights into hepatocellular carcinoma treatment from bench to clinic.
Role of linear endosonography in the diagnosis of biopsy‐negative malignant esophageal strictures: Exploring the unexplored
Authors: Dahale Amol S , Srivastava Siddharth , Sonika Ujjwal , Dalal Ashok , Goyal Aditi , Sakhuja Puja , Sachdeva Sanjeev , Puri Amarender S
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Endoscopic biopsy is standard for the diagnosis of esophageal malignancy. However, few cases present with smooth stricture with repetitive negative biopsy results. We aimed to use linear endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) in the diagnosis of biopsy‐negative suspected malignant esophageal strictures.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data from August 2017 to December 2018 of biopsy‐negative esophageal strictures. All adult patients with twice‐negative biopsies and with smooth overlying esophageal mucosa on endoscopy were included. Clinical, epidemiological, endoscopic, imaging, and EUS findings were noted and analyzed.

Results

Eighteen patients underwent EUS for suspicion of malignant esophageal stricture. Seven were excluded as they were submucosal tumors. Eleven patients showed the presence of malignancy on EUS FNA samples. Nine were males. Computed tomography showed esophageal wall thickening in eight (16–38 mm) and esophageal mass in three patients. EUS showed loss of a normal five‐layered wall structure of the esophagus in all patients. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology demonstrated squamous cell carcinoma (n = 4), adenocarcinoma (n = 4), poorly differentiated carcinoma (n = 2), and neuroendocrine carcinoma (n = 1). There were no complications.

Conclusion

EUS with FNA is effective and safe for the diagnosis of biopsy‐negative malignant esophageal strictures.
Synthesis and Anticancer Evaluation of Some Novel Thiophene, Thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine, Thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine, and Thieno[3,2‐e][1,4]oxazepine Derivatives Containing Benzothiazole Moiety
Authors: Hassan Aisha Y. , Husseiny Ebtehal M.
Published: July 2019

In an attempt to establish novel candidate with promising anticancer activity, two derivatives of (benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)thiophene backbone 1 and 14 were synthesized, and they further reacted with various chemical reagents to afford the corresponding substituted thiophene derivatives 6, 8, 10, 15, 17, and 20, thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidine derivatives 2–5, 7, 9, 16, 21, 23, and 24, thieno[3,2‐b]pyridine derivatives 11–13, and thieno[3,2‐e][1,4]oxazepine derivative 18. Structures of prepared compounds were affirmed via spectral and elemental data. Among the obtained compounds, seven derivatives 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, and 13 were chosen by National Cancer Institute, USA. Such compounds were screened for their antitumor activity versus 60 cancer cell lines in one‐dose (10 μmol) screening assay. The outcomes showed that all selected compounds exhibited moderate to high anticancer activity towards many cancer cell lines among which compounds 5 and 11 exerted potent antitumor activity against numerous malignant growth cell lines particularly Ovarian Cancer IGROV1.
Change management for radiation therapists – transitioning to the new Royal Adelaide Hospital
Authors: Sale Charlotte , Page Deborah , Penniment Michael
Published: July 2019

One of the largest change operations to take place in South Australia was the moving of the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) to its new site in 2017. Change can influence workplace effectiveness and staff satisfaction and morale. Understanding the stages of change, staff experience and carefully managing the process is important. This paper aims to describe the successful move of the radiation therapy department at the RAH to its new site, focusing on the staff experience and management strategies to ensure the success of the move. A four‐stage model of change was used to guide understand, manage and reflect upon the transition of the RAH radiation therapy department to a new site. Key change events and management strategies are described and aligned with the four stages of change. The move to the new site was a great success with a transition period working across two sites enabling a slower ramp up of activity at the new site supporting staff and patients in adjusting to the new environment. The four‐stage model of change assisted in the smooth implementation of a transition plan for radiation oncology. At the RAH, innovation and development are encouraged, along with management having a comprehensive understanding of organisational change enabling the radiation oncology department to successfully navigate rapid change.
Overexpression of the saccharopine dehydrogenase gene improves lysine biosynthesis inFlammulina velutipes
Authors: Liu Jianyu , Li Qiaozhen , Jiang Peiyu , Xu Zhen , Zhang Dan , Zhang Lujun , Zhang Meiyan , Yu Hailong , Song Chunyan , Tan Qi , Shang Xiaodong , Wang Ruijuan
Published: July 2019

Saccharopine dehydrogenase (EC 1.5.1.7) regulates the last step of fungal lysine biosynthesis. The gene (Fvsdh) encoding saccharopine dehydrogenase was identified and cloned from the whole genome ofFlammulina velutipes. The genomic DNA ofFvsdhis 1257 bp, comprising three introns and four exons. The full‐length complementary DNA ofFvsdhcomprises 1107 bp with a deduced amino acid sequence of 368 residues. A 1,000‐bp promoter sequence containing the TATA box, CAAT box, and several putativecis‐acting elements was also identified. The results of tissue expression analysis showed that the expression level of theFvsdhgene was higher in the pileus than in the stipe whether in the elongation or maturation stage. Further research showed that the lysine contents were 3.03 and 2.95 mg/g in maturation‐pileus and elongation‐pileus, respectively. In contrast, the lysine contents were 2.49 and 2.07 mg/g in elongation‐stipe and maturation‐stipe, respectively. To study the function ofFvsdh, we overexpressedFvsdhinF. velutipesand found thatFvsdhgene expression was increased from 1.1‐ to 3‐fold in randomly selected transgenic strains. The lysine contents were also increased from 1.12‐ to 1.3‐fold in these five transformants, except for strain T3, in which the lysine contents were the same as the control. These results indicate that the expression of theFvsdhgene can affect the lysine content ofF.velutipes.
Raman study of nonhydrostatic pressure‐induced phase transitions in monoclinic L‐aspartic acid crystals
Authors: Fu Chao , Du Bing , Dai Chao , Li Pan , Lei Li , Xie Miaojia , Jiang Zhuo
Published: July 2019

To explore the properties of the L‐aspartic acid crystal structure under high pressure, we employed Raman spectra combined with vibrational mode assignments at pressures ranging from atmospheric pressure to 20.1 GPa. A comparison of the assignment of the vibration mode by density functional theory calculations and by isotopic shift measurements was also discussed. The spectra showed that modifications might be present mainly at pressures less than 10.0 GPa. Variations in the whole spectrum indicated that the crystal underwent three phase transitions at the pressure ranges of 2.2‐3.6, 5.2‐6.6, and 9.4‐10 GPa. A molecular conformational variation might occur at 14.3‐15.9 GPa. The behaviour of the wavenumber as a function of pressure was also presented. This work provides useful information on the hydrogen bonds within the stable monoclinic crystal structure of L‐aspartic acid.
Postoperative dynamic survival of gastric cancer patients: A multi‐institutional, international analysis of 22 265 patients
Authors: Wang Jia‐Bin , Zhong Qing , Wang Wei , Desiderio Jacopo , Chen Shi , Liu Zhi‐Yu , Chen Qi‐Yue , Li Ping , Xie Jian‐Wei , Liu Feng‐Qiong , Zheng Chao‐Hui , Peng Jun‐Sheng , Zhou Zhi‐Wei , Parisi Amilcare , Huang Chang‐Ming
Published: July 2019

Background

How to best evaluate the disease‐specific survival (DSS) of gastric cancer (GC) survivors over time is unclear.

Methods

Clinicopathological data from 22 265 patients who underwent curative intend resection for GC were retrospectively analyzed. Changes in the patients’ 3‐year conditional disease‐specific survival (CS3) were analyzed. We used time‐dependent Cox regression to analyze which variables had long‐term effects on DSS and devised a dynamic predictive model based on the length of survival.

Results

Based on 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survivorships, the CS3 of the population increased gradually from 62% to 68.1%, 83.7%, and 90.6%, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that the CS3 of patients who had poor prognostic factors initially demonstrated the greatest increase in postoperative survival time (eg, N3b: 26.6%‐84.1%, Δ57.5% vs N0: 84.1%‐93.3%, Δ9.2%). Time‐dependent Cox regression analysis showed the following predictor variables constantly affecting DSS: age, the number of examined lymph nodes (LNs), T stage, N stage, and site (P < .05). These variables served as the basis for a dynamic prediction model.

Conclusions

The influence of prognostic factors on DSS and CS3 changed dramatically over time. We developed an effective model for predicting the DSS of patients with GC based on the length of survival time.
Tunable Engineering of Heparinized Injectable Hydrogels for Affinity‐Based Sustained Delivery of Bioactive Factors
Authors: Kim Seong Han , Thambi Thavasyappan , Lym Jae Seung , Giang Phan V.H. , Lee Doo Sung
Published: July 2019

Here, the design of an in situ‐forming injectable hydrogel is reported based on pH‐ and temperature‐responsive copolymers finely engineered with heparin for the sustained delivery of bioactive factors. In order to develop such heparinized injectable hydrogels, pH‐ and temperature‐responsive copolymers based on poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(urethane sulfamethazine) (PEG‐PUSSM) are synthesized and acrylated, and subsequently coupled with thiolated heparin through Michael‐addition reaction. The content of heparin in the bioconjugates (Hep‐PUSSM) is finely tuned to control the release of heparin‐binding bioactive factors. The free‐flowing bioconjugate sols at room temperature transform to stable viscoelastic gel in physiological conditions, indicating that heparin modification does not affect the sol–gel transition. The subcutaneous administration of bioconjugate sols to the dorsal‐region of Sprague‐Dawley rats forms a hydrogel depot and shows controlled degradation. The bioconjugates effectively bind with bioactive factors (VEGF) through simple mixing, and the release is controlled over a period of 4 weeks without an initial burst. As a result, the implantation of VEGF‐loaded bioconjugate gel induces angiogenesis throughout the hydrogel network. The tunable engineering of the injectable hydrogel by heparinization with independent controllable physical properties sustains the release of bioactive factors, indicating that it may be a promising platform for the delivery of bioactive factors.
A modified culture medium for improved isolation of marine vibrios
Authors: Tagliavia Marcello , Salamone Monica , Bennici Carmelo , Quatrini Paola , Cuttitta Angela
Published: July 2019

Marine Vibrio members are of great interest for both ecological and biotechnological research, which often relies on their isolation. Whereas many efforts have been made for the detection of food‐borne pathogenic species, much less is known about the performances of standard culture media toward environmental vibrios. We show that the isolation/enumeration of marine vibrios using thiosulfate‐citrate‐bile salts‐sucrose agar (TCBS) as selective medium may be hampered by the variable adaptability of different taxa to the medium, which may result even in isolation failure and/or in substantial total count underestimation. We propose a modified TCBS as isolation medium, adjusted for marine vibrios requirements, which greatly improved their recovery in dilution plate counts, compared with the standard medium. The modified medium offers substantial advantages over TCBS, providing more accurate and likely estimations of the actual presence of vibrios. Modified TCBS allowed the recovery of otherwise undetected vibrios, some of which producing biotechnologically valuable enzymes, thus expanding the isolation power toward potentially new enzyme‐producers Vibrio taxa. Moreover, we report a newly designed Vibrio‐specific PCR primers pair, targeting a unique rpoD sequence, useful for rapid confirmation of isolates as Vibrio members and subsequent genetic analyses.
The role of BRCA1/2 in hereditary and familial breast and ovarian cancers
Authors: Hawsawi Yousef M. , Al‐Numair Nouf S. , Sobahy Turki M. , Al‐Ajmi Areej M. , Al‐Harbi Raneem M. , Baghdadi Mohammed A. , Oyouni Atif A. , Alamer Osama M.
Published: July 2019

Background

BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants have become associated with familial breast and ovarian cancers, and hereditary cancer‐predisposition syndrome. With advances in molecular biology, BRCA profiling facilitates early diagnosis and the implementation of preventive and therapeutic strategies. The genes exhibit variable prevalence among different individuals and moderate interpretation complexity. BRCA deficiency is instrumental in cancer development, affects therapeutic options and is instrumental in drug resistance. In addition, BRCA1/2 profile is diverse across different groups and has been associated with the “founder effect” in certain populations.

Methods

In this review, we aim to detail the spectrum of BRCA1/2 variants and their associated risk estimates.

Results

The relationship between BRCA1/2 and hereditary and familial cancers is indisputable, yet BRCA screening methods are beset with limitations and lack clinical confidence.

Conclusion

This review emphasizes the importance of screening BRCA genetics, in addition to their clinical utility. Furthermore, founder variants are anticipated in the Saudi population.
Children's own perspectives demonstrate the need to improve paediatric perioperative care
Authors: Lööf Gunilla , Andersson‐Papadogiannakis Nina , Silén Charlotte
Published: July 2019

Aim

To explore children's perspectives when facing anaesthesia and surgery.

Design

Interpretative qualitative design.

Methods

Children undergoing outpatient surgery were interviewed in three different phases, before and after anaesthesia and surgery (phase 1 and 2) and 1 month after the hospitalization (phase 3). Twenty‐two children (4–15 years) were interviewed in phase 1 and 2 and six children (5–13 years) in phase 3. Data were analysed using manifest and latent qualitative content analysis.

Results

Two contrasting themes were identified: Fearful in association with anaesthesia and surgery and Confident in association with anaesthesia and surgery. Comprehension of the perioperative procedures, continuous information and interaction with the healthcare providers were decisive factors for children's expressions of confidence or fearfulness. Events considered as major from a healthcare perspective may be of no importance to the child, while events considered as less important by healthcare providers may be significant to the child. Understanding children's perspectives and awareness of their need to process the information provided are significant factors for establishment of trust and confidence in a highly technological perioperative environment.
BMI, Waist Circumference, and Risk of Incident Vertebral Fracture in Women
Authors: Paik Julie M. , Rosen Harold N. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Rosner Bernard A. , Rimm Eric B. , Gordon Catherine M. , Curhan Gary C.
Published: July 2019

Objective

The study aimed to investigate the association between BMI, waist circumference, and vertebral fracture (VF) risk in women.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted in 54,934 Nurses’ Health Study participants. BMI was assessed biennially, and waist circumference was assessed in the year 2000. Self‐reports of VF were confirmed by record review. BMI reflects lean body mass, and waist circumference reflects abdominal adiposity when included in the same regression model.

Results

This study included 536 VF cases (2002 to 2014). Compared with women with BMI of 21.0 to 24.9 kg/m2, the multivariable‐adjusted relative risk (RR) of VF for women with BMI ≥ 32.0 was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.61‐1.14; Ptrend = 0.08). After further adjustment for waist circumference, the multivariable‐adjusted RR of VF for women with BMI ≥ 32.0 was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.49‐0.98; Ptrend = 0.003). Compared with women with waist circumference < 71.0 cm, the multivariable‐adjusted RR of VF for women with waist circumference ≥ 108.0 cm was 1.76 (95% CI: 1.06‐2.92; Ptrend = 0.01), and after further adjustment for BMI, the multivariable‐adjusted RR of VF was 2.49 (95% CI: 1.44‐4.33; Ptrend < 0.001).

Conclusions

Greater lean body mass was independently associated with lower VF risk. Larger waist circumference was independently associated with higher VF risk. These findings suggest that fat distribution is an important predictor of VF and that avoiding central adiposity, as well as maintaining muscle mass, may potentially confer reduced risk of VF in older women.
Behavioral Predictors of Weight Regain in Postmenopausal Women: Exploratory Results From the Breast Cancer and Exercise Trial in Alberta
Authors: McNeil Jessica , Liepert Maryah , Brenner Darren R. , Courneya Kerry S. , Friedenreich Christine M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

This secondary analysis assessed associations between changes in energy balance and sleep behaviors and the risk of weight regain following exercise‐induced weight loss.

Methods

Of 400 participants initially randomized in the Breast Cancer and Exercise Trial in Alberta (BETA), 227 lost weight following the moderate‐ to vigorous‐intensity exercise intervention (−4.2 ± 3.6 kg) and were included in this analysis. Self‐reported energy intake (EI), sleep duration, quality and timing, and objective measurements of physical activity (PA) and sedentary time were collected at the end of the intervention and the end of follow‐up. Linear regression models assessed associations between changes in these behaviors and risk of weight regain during follow‐up.

Results

Participants regained 43% of the weight lost during follow‐up. Reductions in moderate to vigorous PA (β = −1.00; 95% CI = −1.74 to −0.25 h/d; P = 0.01) and steps per day (β = −0.0003; 95% CI = −0.0005 to −0.0001 steps/d; P = 0.004); increases in sedentary time (β = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.67 to 1.02 h/d; P = 0.03), EI (β = 0.001; 95% CI = 0.0003 to 0.002 kcal; P = 0.01), and fat intake (β = 0.004; 95% CI = 0.001 to 0.006 kcal; P = 0.002); and delayed sleep timing midpoint (β = 0.02; 95% CI = 0.004 to 0.03 min; P = 0.01) were associated with weight regain during follow‐up.

Conclusions

These exploratory results suggest that reductions in moderate to vigorous PA; increases in EI, fat intake, and sedentary time; and delayed sleep timing midpoint were significantly associated with risk of weight regain.
Laccase Encapsulation in ZIF‐8 Metal‐Organic Framework Shows Stability Enhancement and Substrate Selectivity
Authors: Knedel Tim‐Oliver , Ricklefs Esther , Schlüsener Carsten , Urlacher Vlada B. , Janiak Christoph
Published: July 2019

CgL1 laccase from Corynebacterium glutamicum was encapsulated into the metal‐organic framework (MOF) ZIF‐8 which was synthesized in a rapid enzyme friendly aqueous synthesis, the fastest in situ encapsulation of laccases reported to date. The obtained enzyme/MOF, i. e. laccase@ZIF‐8 composite showed enhanced thermal (up to 70 °C) and chemical (N,N‐dimethylformamide) stability, resulting in a stable heterogenous catalyst, suitable for high temperature reactions in organic solvents. Furthermore, the defined structure of ZIF‐8 produced a size selective substrate specificity, so that substrates larger than the pore size were not accepted. Thereby, 2’‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) (ABTS) was used to verify that the enzyme is immobilized inside the MOF versus the outside surface. The enzyme@MOF composite was analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy (ASS) to precisely determine the enzyme loading to 2.1 wt%.
The use of magnetic resonance imaging in the prediction of birthweight
Authors: Carlin Andrew , Kadji Caroline , Cannie Mieke M. , Resta Serena , Kang Xin , Jani Jacques C.
Published: July 2019

Extremes of fetal growth can increase adverse pregnancy outcomes, and this is equally applicable to single and multiple gestations. Traditionally, these cases have been identified using simple two‐dimensional ultrasound which is quite limited by its low precision. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has now been used for many years in obstetrics, mainly as an adjunct to ultrasound for congenital abnormalities and increasingly as part of the post‐mortem examination. However, MRI can also be used to accurately assess fetal weight as first demonstrated by Baker et al in 1994, using body volumes rather than standard biometric measurements. This publication was followed by several others, all of which confirmed the superiority of MRI; however, despite this initial promise, the technique has never been successfully integrated into clinical practice. In this review, we provide an overview of the literature, detail the various techniques and formulas currently available, discuss the applicability to specific high‐risk groups and present our vision for the future of MRI within clinical obstetrics.
Preparation of Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine‐Copper Oxide Core‐Shell Particles and Their Thermal Decomposition Kinetics
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Zhu Ying , Cheng Zhipeng , Ke Xiang , Shi Kaiwen , Zhang Kaili
Published: July 2019

The effect of interfacial contact conditions between cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) and copper oxide (CuO) on the thermal decomposition kinetics of RDX was investigated in this study. CuO was deposited onto the surface of superfine RDX particles to form RDX@CuO core‐shell structure through RF magnetron sputtering technology. The thermal decomposition characteristics of RDX, RDX@CuO and RDX‐CuO ultrasonic mixture were studied through thermo‐gravimetric method. Kissinger and Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose methods were used to obtain kinetic parameters of thermal decomposition processes. It was found that the temperature corresponding to maximum weight loss rate decreased in the order of RDX>RDX‐CuO>RDX@CuO. However, the apparent activation energy of RDX decomposition did not show apparent difference for the two kinds of CuO‐containing samples. The results indicate that the interfacial contact conditions between RDX and CuO have an effect on the thermal stability of RDX but do not alter the thermal decomposition paths of RDX.
Synthesis, insecticidal activities and resistance in Aedes albopictus and cytotoxicity of novel dihaloacetylated heterocyclic pyrethroids
Authors: Zhu Qiuyan , Yang Yang , Lao Zhiting , Zhong Yingying , Zhang Bingjie , Cui Xiping , O'Neill Paul , Hong David , Zhang Kun , Zhao Suqing
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

The use of safe and effective insecticides against mosquito‐borne stocks is still one of the most effective ways to rapidly interrupt the spread of diseases such as malaria, dengue etc., but many insects are resistant to most insecticides and most of the traditional pyrethroids (like permethrin, deltamethrin etc.) contain phenoxy groups so it is easy to form dibenzofuran, a pollutant, after photodegradation. It is therefore necessary to synthesize novel pyrethroids which have better mosquito‐killing activity, poor resistance to mosquitoes, and no dibenzofuran formation during photodegradation.

RESULTS

A series of novel dihaloacetylated heterocyclic pyrethroids were synthesized to enhance antimosquito activity. Bioassays based on the guidelines of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that the synthesized compounds DCA‐O (LC50 = 2.95 ± 0.05 μg L−1), DCA‐01 (LC50 = 5.83 ± 0.36 μg L−1) and DCA‐11 (LC50 = 5.79 ± 1.51 μg L−1) exhibit high insecticidal activities and sensitivity against Aedes albopictus while deltamethrin and permethrin produced moderate levels of resistance. Moreover, the analysis of the photodegradation implies that the novel compounds synthesized by substituting a phenoxy group with a heterocyclic ring do not form dibenzofuran, a pollutant. Lastly, the cytotoxicity data of pyrethroids on human dopaminergic neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells confirm that the synthesized compounds have low toxicity for the cells.

CONCLUSION

Novel dihaloacetylated heterocyclic pyrethroids, made by simple synthesis steps, have better antimosquito activity, lower drug resistance, are less polluting to the environment and show low toxicity to human nerve cells. This also provides an effective idea for the synthesis of pyrethroids. Novel dihaloacetylated heterocyclic pyrethroids have better antimosquito activity, lower drug resistance, are less polluting to the environment, ahow low toxicity to human nerve cells and simple synthesis steps. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The quantum chemistry of attosecond molecular science
Authors: Palacios Alicia , Martín Fernando
Published: July 2019

With the advent of attosecond light pulses at the beginning of this century, the possibility to perform real‐time observations of electron motion in molecules has spurred impressive theoretical developments aimed at providing support and guidance to numerous, but still incipient, experimental efforts devoted to understand chemistry at its ultimate temporal frontier: the attosecond. The first real‐time observation of electron dynamics in a relatively large molecule, phenylalanine, was reported in 2014. This would have been difficult without the help of theory, since observations in this emerging field, recently coined attochemistry, are still indirect. While standard Quantum Chemistry methods can describe excited bound‐state dynamics, new approaches incorporating scattering theory formalisms are needed to understand the interaction with attosecond pulses. Indeed, due to their short wavelengths, lying in the XUV and X‐ray spectral regions, the interaction of such pulses with any molecule inevitably leads to ionization, which requires describing the molecular ionization continuum. Also, because of their short duration (i.e., large bandwidth), ionization is accompanied by the formation of a molecular electronic wave packet (i.e., a coherent superposition of electronic states), which evolves in time and dictates the fate of the molecule at the longer time scales where chemistry shows up. Although much has already been done up to date, current bottlenecks in the field are to account for electron correlations during the ionization process and for the coupled electron and nuclear dynamics that follows. Past and ongoing theoretical efforts are described here along with experimental work towards the solid establishment of attochemistry.

This article is categorized under:

Electronic Structure Theory > Ab Initio Electronic Structure Methods

Software > Quantum Chemistry

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Spectroscopy
Model‐based control addition to prescribe DFIG wind turbine fast frequency response
Authors: David Nicholas , Prevost Thibault , Xavier Florent , Wang Zhaoyu
Published: July 2019

This paper investigates the physical capability of double‐fed induction generator (DFIG) wind turbines for inertial support of frequency response. Frequency stability is modeled using the DFIG electromechanical and generator controller dynamics, and a destabilizing effect is demonstrated in low‐inertia systems. To improve response, a synchronous reference frame DFIG controller is proposed that acts by following low‐frequency grid dynamics and adds a fast acting proportional plus integral (PI)‐controlled frequency‐responsive component to existing qd current commands. The proposed controller is derived in a straightforward manner using only the DFIG dynamic equations and is designed using pole/zero placement techniques. Laboratory experiments using a micro‐scale DFIG wind turbine with hub‐emulating flywheel prove better capability for transient frequency regulation even under extreme load change. The result is a DFIG controller that balances the appearance of transients in electrical and mechanical systems. Value is achieved in providing immediate continuous inertial response to support load change. The proposed frequency response can improve the use of existing physical inertia from wind turbines.
Leadership Studies
Authors: Amaladas Stan
Published: July 2019

Beginning with the belief that the study of leadership belongs to all and to no one in particular, the author offers twenty-seven stable and unchanging elements for the study of leadership, and collects them under four themes: context, shared purpose, language, and human agency. He (a) argues that the rational interest in making our world a better place cuts across all academic disciplines/boundaries, (b) grounds the quest for an integrated theory of leadership in the Desire for Shared Agreement, and (c) offers the possibility that this Desire as a Governing Standard can potentially unite the multiple approaches to leadership studies.
Debt perceptions: fairness judgments of debt relief for individuals and countries
Authors: CHAVANNE DAVID
Published: July 2019

This study examines how moral intuitions toward debt relief vary depending on whether a debt contract involves one country borrowing from another country or an individual borrowing from a bank. Participants respond to a vignette describing a basic debt dispute between a debtor and a lender. A judge in charge of settling the dispute decides to allow debt relief and participants express how fair they find the decision. Treatments vary (1) the debt context (international or person-bank), (2) the responsibility of lenders and debtors (whether their situations stem from bad luck or poor choices) and (3) whether a lender's profit motive is made salient. Results show that, across both international and person-bank debt, debt relief is perceived as being fairer when debtors are unlucky and when lenders are careless; profit salience, however, does not affect the perceived fairness of debt relief in either debt context. Results, when integrated with those from an initial related study, also point to anti-bank sentiment increasing the perceived fairness of debt relief when an individual borrows from a bank and to a consistent across-context ranking of the perceived fairness of debt relief in the scenario.
Parallel Simulation Decision-Making Method for a Response to Unconventional Public Health Emergencies Based on the Scenario–Response Paradigm and Discrete Event System Theory
Authors: Xie Tian , Ni Mengna , Zhang Zhaoyun , Wei Yaoyao
Published: July 2019

Given the non-repeatability, complexity, and unpredictability of unconventional public health emergencies, building accurate models and making effective response decisions based only on traditional prediction–response decision-making methods are difficult. To solve this problem, under the scenario–response paradigm and theories on parallel emergency management and discrete event system (DES), the parallel simulation decision-making framework (PSDF), which includes the methods of abstract modeling, simulation operation, decision-making optimization, and parallel control, is proposed for unconventional public health emergency response processes. Furthermore, with the example of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) response process, the evolutionary scenarios that include infected patients and diagnostic processes are transformed into simulation processes. Then, the validity and operability of the DES–PSDF method proposed in this paper are verified by the results of a simulation experiment. The results demonstrated that, in the case of insufficient prior knowledge, effective parallel simulation models can be constructed and improved dynamically by multi-stage parallel controlling. Public health system bottlenecks and relevant effective response solutions can also be obtained by iterative simulation and optimizing decisions. To meet the urgent requirements of emergency response, the DES–PSDF method introduces a new response decision-making concept for unconventional public health emergencies.
Cortisol stress response in psychosis from the high-risk to the chronic stage: a systematic review
Authors: Dauvermann M. R. , Donohoe G.
Published: July 2019

Objectives:

We review studies of whether cortisol levels following psychosocial stress exposure differ between patients with psychosis and healthy control subjects.

Methods:

Original research published between 1993 and February 2019 was included in the literature search. Studies that used experimentally induced psychosocial stress and reported stress response measures of plasma or saliva cortisol levels in patients at any stage of illness (i.e. high risk, first episode and chronic phase) were included.

Results:

A total of 17 studies were included. Although there was evidence of inconsistencies in measures, we observed moderate evidence of an association with stress-induced cortisol blunting response across studies.

Conclusions:

This review highlights recent evidence of blunting of cortisol response following experimentally induced psychosocial stress. While there was some evidence of this blunted response across illness types and stages, the strongest evidence was observed for those with chronic schizophrenia. Due to the low number of studies, in particular in bipolar disorder, much work is still needed to accurately characterise the biological effects of stress in psychosis.