bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of definitive-intent finely fractionated and palliative-intent coarsely fractionated radiotherapy as adjuvant treatment of feline microscopic injection-site sarcoma
Authors: Rossi Federica , Marconato Laura , Sabattini Silvia , Cancedda Simona , Laganga Paola , Leone Vito F , Rohrer Bley Carla
Published: February 2018

Objectives

The aim of this retrospective, bi-institutional study was to evaluate the progression-free interval in a cohort of cats with postoperative microscopic injection-site sarcoma (ISS) treated with two different radiotherapy protocols.

Methods

Included in the study were cats with ISSs undergoing macroscopic surgical removal and subsequent electron beam radiotherapy treatment with either a finely fractionated protocol (48 or 52.8 Gy over 4 weeks delivered in 12 or 16 fractions) or a coarsely fractionated protocol (36 Gy over 3 weeks administered in six fractions). Medical records were reviewed and follow-up information was collected. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used to compare the progression-free interval (PFI) between the two protocols and to test the influence of many clinical variables.

Results

Fifty-nine cats were included; 38 underwent a finely fractionated protocol and 21 a coarsely fractionated protocol. PFI was not significantly different between the two groups. Overall PFI was 2000 days (2000 vs 540 days; P = 0.449). When only first-occurrence cases were included, median PFI was significantly longer in the finely fractionated group compared with the coarsely fractionated group (1430 vs 540 days; P = 0.007). In cats that underwent multiple surgeries PFI was not different between protocols (233 vs 395 days; P = 0.353).

Conclusions and relevance

Cats with first-occurrence ISSs appear to benefit from postoperative finely fractionated radiotherapy. The same benefit was not evident in cats that underwent multiple surgeries and we think a coarsely fractionated protocol would be indicated in these cases.
Homogenized modeling and micromechanics analysis of thin-walled lattice plate structures for brake discs
Authors: Karamoozian Aminreza , Tan Chin An , Wang Liangmo
Published: February 2018

Periodic cellular structures, especially lattice designs, have potential to improve the cooling performance of brake disk system. In this paper, the method of two scales asymptotic homogenization was used to indicate the effective elastic stiffnesses of lattice plates structures. The arbitrary topology of lattice core cells connected to the back and front plates which are made of generally orthotropic materials, due to use in brake disc design. This starts with the derivation of general shell model with consideration of the set of unit cell problems and then making use of the model to determine the analytical equations and calculate the effective elastic properties of lattice plate concerning the connected back and front plates. The analytical and numerical method allows determining the stiffness properties and the internal forces in the trusses and plates of the lattice. Three types of core-based lattice plates, which are pyramidal, X-type and I-type lattices, have been studied. The I-type lattice is characterized here for the first time with particular attention on the role that the cell trusses and plates plays on the stiffness and strength properties. The lattice designs are finite element characterized and compared with the numerical and experimentally validated pyramidal and X-type lattices under identical conditions. The I-type lattice provides 4% higher strength more than the other lattice types with 9% higher truss fraction coefficient. Results show that the stiffness and yield strength of the lattices depend upon the stress–strain response of the parent alloy of trusses and plates, the truss mass fraction coefficient, the face carriers thickness and the core elements parameters. The study described here is limited to a linear analysis of lattice properties. Geometric nonlinearities, however, have a considerable impact on the effective behavior of a lattice and will be the subject of future studies.
The Effect of Moderate- Versus High-Intensity Resistance Training on Systemic Redox State and DNA Damage in Healthy Older Women
Authors: Gargallo Pedro , Colado Juan C. , Juesas Alavaro , Hernando-Espinilla Amaya , Estañ-Capell Nuria , Monzó-Beltran Lidia , García-Pérez Paula , Cauli Omar , Sáez Guillermo T.
Published: February 2018

This study investigated effects of a 16-week progressive resistance training program (RTP) with elastic bands at two different intensities on systemic redox state, DNA damage, and physical function in healthy older women.

Methods:

Participants were randomly assigned to the high-intensity group (HIGH; n = 39), moderate-intensity group (MOD; n = 31), or control group (CG; n = 23). The exercise groups performed an RTP twice a week with three to four sets of 6 (HIGH) or 15 (MOD) repetitions of six overall body exercises at a perceived exertion rate of 8–9 on the OMNI-Resistance Exercise Scale for use with elastic bands. Thiol redox state was determined by reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and GSSG/GSH in blood mononuclear cells. Degree of DNA damage was assessed by presence of the oxidized DNA base molecule 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in urine. Physical function monitoring was based on the arm curl, chair stand, up and go, and 6-min walk tests.

Results:

The HIGH group showed a significant increase in 8-OHdG (+71.07%, effect size [ES] = 1.12) and a significant decrease in GSH (−10.91, ES = −0.69), while the MOD group showed a significant decrease in 8-OHdG levels (−25.66%, ES = −0.69) with no changes in thiol redox state. GSH levels differed significantly between the HIGH and CG groups posttest. The exercise groups showed significant improvements in physical function with no differences between groups.

Conclusion:

RTP at a moderate rather than high intensity may be a better strategy to reduce DNA damage in healthy older women while also increasing independence.
Prediction of surgically induced astigmatism in manual and femtosecond laser-assisted clear corneal incisions
Authors: Fernández Joaquín , Rodríguez-Vallejo Manuel , Martínez Javier , Tauste Ana , Piñero David P
Published: February 2018

Purpose:

To assess the surgically induced astigmatism with femtosecond laser-assisted and manual temporal clear corneal incisions and to evaluate the performance of a model for prediction of the surgically induced astigmatism based on the preoperative corneal astigmatism.

Methods:

Clinical data of 104 right eyes and 104 left eyes undergoing cataract surgery, 52 with manual incisions and 52 with femtosecond laser-assisted incisions in each eye group, were extracted and revised retrospectively. In all cases, manual incisions were 2.2 mm width and femtosecond incisions were 2.5 mm width, both at temporal location. A predictive model of the surgically induced astigmatism was obtained by means of simple linear regression analyses.

Results:

Mean surgically induced astigmatisms for right eyes were 0.14D@65° (manual) and 0.24D@92° (femtosecond) (p > 0.05) and for left eyes, 0.15D@101° (manual) and 0.19D@104° (femtosecond) (p > 0.05). The orthogonal components of the surgically induced astigmatism (XSIA, YSIA) were significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with the preoperative orthogonal components of corneal astigmatism (Xpreop, Ypreop) (r = −0.29 for X and r = −0.1 for Y). The preoperative astigmatism explained 8% of the variability of the XSIA and 3% of the variability of YSIA. The postoperative corneal astigmatism prediction was not improved by the surgically induced astigmatism obtained from the model in comparison with the simple vector subtraction of the mean surgically induced astigmatism.

Conclusion:

Temporal incisions induce similar astigmatism either for manual or for femtosecond procedures. This can be clinically negligible for being considered for toric intraocular lens calculation due to the great standard deviation in comparison with the mean. The usefulness of the prediction model should be confirmed in patients with high preoperative corneal astigmatism.
A simplified approach for thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis of circular contacts using realistic lubricant properties
Authors: Katyal Puneet , Kumar Punit
Published: February 2018

Thermal effect in elastohydrodynamic lubrication has been the subject of extensive research for several decades. The focus of this study was primarily on the development of an efficient numerical scheme to deal with the computational challenges involved in the solution of thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication model; however, some important aspects related to the accurate description of lubricant properties such as viscosity, rheology, and thermal conductivity in elastohydrodynamic lubrication point contact analysis remain largely neglected. A few studies available in this regard are based upon highly complex mathematical models difficult to formulate and execute. The end-users may not have the specialized skill, knowledge, and time required for the development of computational codes pertaining to these models. Therefore, this paper offers a very simple approach to determine the distribution of mean fluid temperature within an elastohydrodynamic lubrication film. While it is an approximate method, it yields reasonably accurate results with only a little increase in computation time with respect to the isothermal case. Moreover, it can be added as a small module to any existing isothermal algorithm. Using this simplified thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication model for point contacts, this work sheds some light on the importance of accurate characterization of the lubricant properties and demonstrates that the computed thermal elastohydrodynamic lubrication characteristics are highly sensitive to lubricant properties. It also emphasizes the use of appropriate mathematical models with experimentally determined parameters to account for the correct lubricant behavior.
Numerical modelling of oil distribution and churning gear power losses of gearboxes by smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Liu Hua , Arfaoui Ghaith , Stanic Milos , Montigny Laurent , Jurkschat Thomas , Lohner Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: February 2018

Sufficient oil supply of all machine elements in gearboxes is usually required to avoid damage during operation. Quite frequently, transmissions are conservatively designed with an oversupply of oil to guarantee operational reliability. An oversupply of oil results in an unnecessarily high amount of oil being kept in motion, which in turn leads to excessive hydraulic gear power losses. In high-speed gearboxes in particular, churning losses can contribute greatly to the total power losses. Further detailed information on the oil distribution in gearboxes is needed in order to increase the efficiency and operational reliability of gearboxes. Computational Fluid Dynamics methods provide a flexible way of investigating oil behaviour in transmissions with almost no restrictions regarding geometry and operating conditions. Generally, there are two main methods of computational fluid dynamics simulation in gearboxes: the traditional finite-volume based method (Eulerian approach) and the mesh-free particle-based method (Lagrangian approach). In this work, a computational fluid dynamics model based on the particle-based smoothed particle hydrodynamics method is built to investigate the oil distribution and churning losses of a dip-lubricated single stage gearbox on an efficiency gear test rig. Results are shown and discussed for different rotational speeds and oil temperatures. The smoothed particle hydrodynamics method provides a high potential of predicting the oil distribution of modern dip-lubricated transmission systems. Comparisons with high-speed camera recordings show good agreement. However, the method shows a need for improvement in churning loss prediction.
‘“Asexual” Isn’t Who I Am’: The Politics of Asexuality
Authors: Dawson Matt , Scott Susie , McDonnell Liz
Published: February 2018

Some literature on asexuality has claimed that it is inherently radical and contains the potential for resistance. Unfortunately, this literature has tended to be unempirical, has imagined asexuality as a disembodied entity, and has marginalised the multiple identities held by asexual people. This article, inspired by Plummer’s critical humanist approach, seeks to explore how individuals understand their asexuality to encourage forms of political action in the areas of identity, activism, online spaces, and LGBT politics. What we found was a plurality of experiences and attitudes with most adopting a pragmatic position in response to their social situation which saw large-scale political action as irrelevant. We conclude by reflecting on what these results mean for those who see asexuality as potentially radical.
Unfit for work: Health and labour-market prospects
Authors: Böckerman Petri , Maczulskij Terhi
Published: February 2018

Aim: The aim of this study was to examine whether health status (number of chronic diseases, health shock and use of tranquilizers/sleeping pills) is related to labour-market outcomes later in life. Methods: Twin data for Finnish men and women who were at least 33 years old in 1990 were linked to comprehensive register-based information on unemployment and the incidence of disability pension. We used the within-twin dimension of the data to account for shared family and genetic factors. Self-reported information on the number of diagnosed chronic diseases, health shock and drug use were obtained from the 1975 and 1981 twin surveys, when the twins were at least 18 years old. Unemployment months and the incidence of disability pension were measured during prime working age over the 1990–2004/2009 period. Results: Poor health status is significantly positively related to unemployment and the incidence of disability pension. The results are robust to controlling for shared family and genetic factors and the key measures of risky health behaviours (alcohol use, lifetime smoking and body mass index). Conclusions: Health status is a fundamental determinant of long-term labour-market outcomes.
Sustained return to work and work participation after a new legislation obligating employers to notify prolonged sickness absence
Authors: Halonen Jaana I , Solovieva Svetlana , Virta Lauri J , Laaksonen Mikko , Martimo Kari-Pekka , Hiljanen Ismo , Lallukka Tea , Autti-Rämö Ilona , Viikari-Juntura Eira
Published: February 2018

Aims: Return to work (RTW) after prolonged sickness absence benefits both the individual and society. However, the effectiveness of legislation aiming to improve RTW remains uncertain. We examined whether sustained RTW and work participation were different before and after a legislative change enacted in 2012 (i.e. an intervention) that obligated employers to give notice of prolonged sickness absence to occupational health services. Methods: Two random samples (2010 and 2013) of the Finnish working aged population (70%, ~2.6 million each) were drawn. Using survival analysis, we assessed sustained RTW (≥28 consecutive working days) during a two-month follow-up after a sickness absence minimum of 30 calendar days in the pre- and post-intervention period. We also identified pathways for RTW with cluster analysis and calculated relative gain in work participation in the total sample and by several population subgroups. Results: In the total sample, sustained RTW was 4% higher and the mean time to sustained RTW was 0.42 days shorter in the post- than in the pre-intervention period. The estimates were larger among women than men and among those with mental disorders compared with other diagnoses. Changes in the pathways for sustained RTW indicated a 4.9% relative gain in work participation in the total sample. The gain was larger among those who lived in areas of low unemployment rate (20.6%) or worked in the public sector (11.9%). Conclusions: From 2010 to 2013, RTW and work participation increased among the employees with prolonged sickness absence, suggesting that the legislative change enhanced RTW. The change in work participation varied by population subgroup.
Health and retirement age: Comparison of expectations and actual retirement
Authors: Ilmakunnas Pekka , Ilmakunnas Seija
Published: February 2018

Aim: We examine the relationship between the subjective assessment of health status and retirement by using information on expected and actual retirement ages. Methods: Subjective data from cross-sectional surveys, conducted in Finland in 2003 and 2008, are linked to information on actual retirement age from register data from 2003 to 2013. Regression models are estimated for actual and expected retirement ages. Results: While the health status is positively correlated with both actual and anticipated full-time retirement age, the actual age of retirement is less sensitive to health. On average, individuals tend to retire later than they had anticipated. We examine potential biases in the health–retirement relationship. Measurement error in regard to health status biases the results downwards. Using data on observed retirement ages, omitting those who do not retire during the data period, leads to a selection problem. Ignoring the selection also leads to a downwards bias in the health–retirement age connection. As a more exogenous health variable we use health shocks, which are measured by average annual days of absence due to sickness in the follow-up period. These shocks are negatively related to retirement age in a subsample of initially healthy individuals. Conclusions: When subjective assessment of health is used for explaining retirement behavior, the effects of health can often be underestimated rather than overestimated. To lengthen working careers, attention should be given to both the ability (health) and willingness (perceptions of proper retirement age) of people to continue longer at work.
The Expression and Prognostic Impact of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Advanced Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Ning , Du Zunguo , Zhu Yongjun , Song Yang , Pang Liewen , Chen Zhiming
Published: February 2018

The abnormal phosphatase and tensin homolog expression and activated phosphoinositide-3 kinase/Protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway are involved in the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. By assessing the expression pattern of key components in the phosphoinositide-3 kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway by immunohistochemistry in tumor and nontumor esophageal mucosa from patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinomas, we aimed to carefully explore the relationship between the various protein expressions and clinicopathological factors, as well as patient outcome. A total of 145 tumor and 145 nontumor samples from patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, collected from HuaShan Hospital (Shanghai, China) were evaluated. Clinical characteristics, the targeted protein expressions (including phosphatase and tensin homolog, phosphoinositide-3 kinase, AKT, p-AKT, mammalian target of rapamycin, p-mTOR, p70S6 kinase 1, p-P70S6K1, elongation initiation factor 4E binding protein-1, and p-4E-BP1, and survival rate were analyzed. Among them, phosphoinositide-3 kinase, AKT, p-AKT, mammalian target of rapamycin, p-mTOR, elongation initiation factor 4E binding protein-1, p70S6 kinase 1, and p-P70S6K1 proteins were significantly upregulated in tumor tissue. Conversely, phosphatase and tensin homolog was largely downregulated in tumor tissue, notably in pT3-T4 tumors. Low expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog whereas high expression of mammalian target of rapamycin signaling components in tumors was closely related to the presence of lymph node metastases and advanced TNM stage (all P < .05). Moreover phosphatase and tensin homolog, mammalian target of rapamycin, and p70S6 kinase 1 were correlated with overall survival as well as p-mTOR was correlated with progression-free survival (all P < .05). Overexpression of mammalian target of rapamycin was proved to be an independent adverse prognostic factor for overall survival in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas. Our results suggest that the phosphoinositide-3 kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway is activated in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, with the low expression of phosphatase and tensin homolog and the high expression of the mammalian target of rapamycin component proteins (both total and phosphorylated) in tumor tissue. Our result might offer a new strategy for specific targeted therapy and prognostic assessment in esophageal cancer.
Enhancing Autonomy in Biobank Decisions: Too Much of a Good Thing?
Authors: Mitchell Phoebe B. , Ziniel Sonja I. , Savage Sarah K. , Christensen Kurt D. , Weitzman Elissa R. , Green Robert C. , Huntington Noelle L. , Mathews Debra J. , Holm Ingrid A.
Published: February 2018

The opportunity to receive individual research results (IRRs) in accordance with personal preferences may incentivize biobank participation and maximize perceived benefit. This trial investigated the relationship between parents’ preferences and intent to participate (ITP) in biobank research utilizing their child’s genetic information. We randomized parents of pediatric patients to four hypothetical biobanks, one of which employed a preference-setting model for return of results regarding their child. ITP was highest among those desiring all types of IRRs (93.3%) and decreased as participants became increasingly selective with their preferences ( p < .0001). We demonstrated that most parents would participate in a biobank that allows for preference setting; however, those who set preferences to receive a narrower set of IRRs are less likely to participate.
Flow-diverter stents for endovascular management of non-fetal posterior communicating artery aneurysms—analysis on aneurysm occlusion, vessel patency, and patient outcome
Authors: Kühn Anna Luisa , Dabus Guilherme , Kan Peter , Wakhloo Ajay K , Puri Ajit S
Published: February 2018

Background

Use of flow-diversion technology in the treatment of incidental and recanalized posterior communicating artery (PComA) aneurysms.

Methods

Patients treated with the Pipeline embolization device (PED) for PComA aneurysms were identified and included in our retrospective analysis. We evaluated aneurysm characteristics, modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) on admission, angiography follow-up, and patient clinical outcome at discharge, at three to nine months, and at 12–18 months.

Results

We included 56 patients with a mean age of 56 years. Median mRS on admission was 0. All aneurysms involved the PComA and were either new findings or found to have shown recanalization at angiography follow-up from previous coil embolization or surgical clipping. Intraprocedural device foreshortening was observed in one case requiring additional placement of a self-expanding stent. One intraprocedural aneurysm rupture occurred because of a broken distal wire. This patient had an mRS of 4 after the procedure. Three- to nine-month and 12- to 18-month follow-up angiography showed near complete or complete aneurysm occlusion in most cases. Minimal to mild intimal hyperplasia was seen in five cases at three to nine months. PComA patency over time showed 29 of 46 initially patent vessels still patent at six months. Thirteen and seven PComAs showed progressive decrease in flow at three to nine months and 12–18 months, respectively. Median mRS remained 0 for all patients at three- to nine-month and 12- to 18-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results show that flow-diversion technology is an effective and safe treatment option. Larger studies with long-term follow-up are needed to validate our promising results.
Association of serum potassium concentration with mortality and ventricular arrhythmias in patients with acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Colombo Miriam Giovanna , Kirchberger Inge , Amann Ute , Dinser Lisa , Meisinger Christa
Published: February 2018

Background

Challenging clinical practice guidelines that recommend serum potassium concentration between 4.0–5.0 mEq/L or ≥4.5 mEq/L in patients with acute myocardial infarction, recent studies found increased mortality risks in patients with a serum potassium concentration of ≥4.5 mEq/L. Studies investigating consequences of hypokalemia after acute myocardial infarction revealed conflicting results. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to combine evidence from previous studies on the association of serum potassium concentration with both short and long-term mortality as well as the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

A structured search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases yielded 23 articles published between 1990 and January 2017 that met the inclusion criteria. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were carried out by three reviewers. Random effects models were used to pool estimates across the included studies and sensitivity analyses were performed when possible.

Results

Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. Both pooled results from six studies investigating short-term mortality and from five studies examining long-term mortality revealed significantly increased risks in patients with serum potassium concentrations of <3.5 mEq/L, 4.5–<5.0 mEq/L and ≥5.0 mEq/L after acute myocardial infarction. In addition, a serum potassium concentration of <3.5 mEq/L was significantly associated with the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias.

Conclusions

Mortality, both short and long term, and the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in patients with acute myocardial infarction seem to be negatively associated with hypokalemic serum potassium concentration. There is evidence for adverse consequences of serum potassium concentrations of ≥4.5 mEq/L. Due to the heterogeneity among existing studies, further research is necessary to confirm the need to change clinical practice guidelines.
Public Diplomacy Effort Across Facebook: A Comparative Analysis of the U.S. Consulate in Erbil and the Kurdistan Representation in Washington
Authors: Omar Bali Ahmed , Karim Mahdi Sofi , Rached Kardo
Published: February 2018

Widespread communication tools such as Facebook and Twitter have become vital channels of public diplomacy. Today, policymakers must implement a successful Facebook diplomacy to enhance their nation’s branding, lobbying, and culture exchange and to expand and build good relationships. This article evaluates how Facebook has been used as a tool of public diplomacy by both the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representation in Washington by performing a quantitative content analysis of their posts and the responses of their users. The results of the content analysis suggest that the United States more successfully utilizes Facebook as a public diplomacy tool to communicate than does the KRG. This article presents a theoretical argument that assumes that public diplomacy can be practiced by nonstate actors and states. The Kurds are considered and targeted by the U.S. public diplomacy program across Facebook, and this helps the Kurds develop their relationship with the United States as a supporter of potential Kurdish statehood. This research also strongly recommends that the KRG improves its Facebook webpage and highlights the values of internationally promoting the KRG as a brand.
High-performance PTFE nanocomposites based on halloysite nanotubes
Authors: Cheng Zhi-Lin , Chang Xing-Yu , Liu Zan , Qin Dun-Zhong , Zhu Ai-Ping
Published: February 2018

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nanocomposites were prepared by the cold compression moulding method. The effects of addition of HNTs (HNTs ‘filling’) on the performances of PTFE were explored using X-ray diffraction, Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis which showed that HNTs were well dispersed in the PTFE matrix by means of physical mixing at lower contents of 2–5 wt.%; the introduction of HNTs into PTFE could improve the heat stability of the PTFE. Furthermore, the mechanical and tribological performances of the nanocomposites were measured to examine the filling effect. The tensile strength of the HNTs/PTFE nanocomposites at 2–5 wt.% HNTs content increased by ~3.5% while their wear rates decreased by 55–90% relative to pure PTFE, clear proof of the filling effect of HNTs with a high aspect ratio.
Alkali activation of natural clay using a Ca(OH)2/Na2CO3 alkaline mixture
Authors: Shaqour F. , Ismeik M. , Esaifan M.
Published: February 2018

An experimental investigation was conducted on the alkali activation of a kaolinitic clay using an alkaline mixture composed of hydrated lime (Ca(OH)2) and sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) solution. The Ca(OH)2/Na2CO3 alkaline mixture was developed to overcome the high cost and chemical aggression associated with classical alkaline solutions. The mineralogical composition and microstructure of the alkaline mixture and alkali-activation products were studied using X-ray diffraction, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and energy-dispersive X-ray-scanning electron microscopy techniques. Pirssonite (Na2Ca(CO3)2·2H2O), calcite (CaCO3), and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) formed as a result of mixing of Ca(OH)2 with Na2CO3. The alkali activation of natural clay with the Ca(OH)2/Na2CO3 alkaline mixture produced a binding agent identified as hydroxysodalite phase (Na8Al6Si6O24(OH)2·4H2O) when pure kaolinite was used, and cancrinite carbonate (Na6Ca1.5[Al6Si6O24](CO3)1.5·1.8H2O) when kaolinitic clay with high a calcite content was used. The mechanical strength of the binder developed was evaluated on cylindrical specimens containing granite waste as a filler material under dry and soaked conditions. The classical NaOH activator was used for comparison. For specimens produced using a Ca(OH)2/Na2CO3 mixture as the alkaline activator, the recorded strength valuewas 21 MPa which was 35% less than that achieved by the classical NaOH solution. Durability tests on samples soaked in water for 24 h showed a reduction in strength from 34 to 22 MPa for specimens prepared with NaOH solution, and from 21 to 11 MPa for the specimens prepared with a Ca(OH)2/Na2CO3 alkaline mixture.
Preparation and catalytic activities of porous clay heterostructures from aluminium-intercalated clays: effect of Al content
Authors: Kooli Fethi , Liu Yan , Hbaieb Kais , Al-Faze Rawan
Published: February 2018

Porous clay heterostructures were prepared from Al-intercalated clays, and they allowed the insertion of Al into the framework of intercalated silica in porous clay heterostructures (PCHs). This method has led to tuneable Al contents within the resulting porous clay heterostructures. X-ray fluorescence confirmed the presence of Al in the intercalated precursors and their derivatives (porous clay heterostructure materials) in various environments, as indicated by 27Al magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance. The Al porous clay heterostructures exhibited specific surface areas that varied from 743 to 850 m2/g with total acid concentrations which varied from 0.969 to 1.420 mmol of protons/g of material, values which were deduced from the temperature desorption of cyclohexylamine. These acid sites were sufficiently strong to initiate the hydro-isomerization of n-heptane. The catalytic properties of the porous clay heterostructures depended on the Al contents and reached a maximum conversion rate of 50% and an isomer selectivity of 70% at a test reaction temperature of 350°C.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Solid lipid curcumin particles provide greater anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects than curcumin in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Maiti Panchanan , Paladugu Leela , Dunbar Gary L.
Published: February 2018

Background

Neuroinflammation and the presence of amyloid beta protein (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles are key pathologies in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). As a potent anti-amyloid and anti-inflammatory natural polyphenol, curcumin (Cur) could be potential therapies for AD. Unfortunately, poor solubility, instability in physiological fluids, and low bioavailability limit its clinical utility. Recently, different lipid modifications in the formulae of Cur have been developed that would enhance its therapeutic potential. For example, we have reported greater permeability and neuroprotection with solid lipid curcumin particles (SLCP) than with natural Cur in an in vitro model of AD. In the present study, we compared the Aβ aggregation inhibition, anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory responses of Cur and or SLCP in both in vitro and in vivo models of AD. One-year-old 5xFAD-and age-matched wild-type mice were given intraperitoneal injections of Cur or SLCP (50 mg/kg body weight) for 2- or 5-days. Levels of Aβ aggregation, including oligomers and fibril formation, were assessed by dot blot assay, while Aβ plaque load and neuronal morphology in the pre-frontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus were assayed by immunolabeling with Aβ-specific antibody and cresyl violet staining, respectively. In addition, neuroinflammation was assessed the immunoreactivity (IR) of activated astrocytes (GFAP) and microglia (Iba-1) in different brain areas. Finally, comparisons of solubility and permeability of Cur and SLCP were made in cultured N2a cells and in primary hippocampal neurons derived from E16 pups of 5xFAD mice.

Results

We observed that relative to Cur, SLCP was more permeable, labeled Aβ plaques more effectively, and produced a larger decrease in Aβ plaque loads in PFC and dentate gyrus (DG) of hippocampus. Similarly, relative to Cur, SLCP produced a larger decrease of pyknotic, or tangle-like, neurons in PFC, CA1, and CA3 areas of hippocampus after 5 days of treatment. Both Cur and or SLCP significantly reduced GFAP-IR and Iba-1-IR in PFC, in the striatum as well as CA1, CA3, DG, subicular complex of hippocampus, and the entorhinal cortex in the 5xFAD mice after 5 days of treatment.

Conclusions

The use of SLCP provides more anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective outcomes than does Cur in the 5xFAD mouse model of AD.
Western Canada Sedimentary Basin petroleum systems: A working and evolving paradigm
Authors: Osadetz Kirk G. , Mort Andrew , Snowdon Lloyd R. , Lawton Donald C. , Chen Zhuoheng , Saeedfar Amin
Published: February 2018

Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) crude oil source rocks accumulated typically in “starved” depositional settings of Sloss outer detrital facies belts and lesser stratigraphic cycles. These produced petroleum from marine type II organic matter in response to burial by commonly westward-thickening overlying successions. Oil occurs commonly within the “Sloss” sequence containing its source rock, often up dip from the “petroleum kitchen.” Migration pathways cross stratal contacts, unconformities and structures, and much oil migrated into adjacent sequences, especially into Lower Cretaceous Mannville Group reservoirs. Anaerobic biodegradation affects oil quality and generates secondary biogenic gas. The WCSB oil system paradigm predates the recognition of anaerobic biodegradation. Biodegradation in post-Mannville reservoirs remains underappreciated. Natural gases originate by thermogenic and biogenic mechanisms from kerogens, coals, and crude oils. Gases are variably altered: physically, microbially, and inorganically. Few oil studies addressed solution and associated primary thermogenic or secondary biogenic gas. Gas studies are independent of oil studies and none recognize secondary biogenic gas even in association with biodegraded oils. We hypothesize that secondary biogenic gas occurs commonly, often mixed with other gas, to produce hydrocarbon isotope ratios and variations distinctive from primary biogenic and thermogenic gases. Where Mannville oil pools have sources in underlying marine rocks, Mannville gases are attributed largely to nonmarine sources. Currently, cross-stratal migration is inferred less commonly for gas than for oil. The inference of gas stratigraphic immobility is problematic for biodegradation studies that infer large secondary biogenic gas fluxes into soil and atmospheric sinks, the migration pathways of which pass through Cretaceous strata. In some unconventional plays, gas isotopic “rollover” and “reversal” due to thermal cracking has implications for reservoir performance. Efforts to understand Cordilleran petroleum systems merit investigation to extend unconventional resource plays westward from Interior Platform.
Defining the Elements of Early Palliative Care That Are Associated With Patient-Reported Outcomes and the Delivery of End-of-Life Care
Authors: Hoerger Michael , Greer Joseph A. , Jackson Vicki A. , Park Elyse R. , Pirl William F. , El-Jawahri Areej , Gallagher Emily R. , Hagan Teresa , Jacobsen Juliet , Perry Laura M. , Temel Jennifer S.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

We describe the key elements of early palliative care (PC) across the illness trajectory and examine whether visit content was associated with patient-reported outcomes and end-of-life care.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of patients with newly diagnosed advanced lung or noncolorectal GI cancer (N = 171) who were randomly assigned to receive early PC. Participants attended at least monthly visits with board-certified PC physicians and advanced practice nurses at Massachusetts General Hospital. PC clinicians completed surveys documenting visit content after each encounter. Patients reported quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General) and mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9) at baseline and 24 weeks. End-of-life care data were abstracted from the electronic health record. We summarized visit content over time and used linear and logistic regression to identify whether the proportion of visits addressing a content area was associated with patient-reported outcomes and end-of-life care.

Results

We analyzed data from 2,921 PC visits, most of which addressed coping (64.2%) and symptom management (74.5%). By 24 weeks, patients who had a higher proportion of visits that addressed coping experienced improved quality of life ( P = .02) and depression symptoms (Depression subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, P = .002; Patient Health Questionnaire-9, P = .004). Patients who had a higher proportion of visits address treatment decisions were less likely to initiate chemotherapy ( P = .02) or be hospitalized ( P = .005) in the 60 days before death. Patients who had a higher proportion of visits addressing advance care planning were more likely to use hospice ( P = .03).

Conclusion

PC clinicians’ focus on coping, treatment decisions, and advance care planning is associated with improved patient outcomes. These data define the key elements of early PC to enable dissemination of the integrated care model.
The bone marrow microenvironment in health and disease at a glance
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Godavarthy P. Sonika , Krause Daniela S.
Published: February 2018

The bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) is the ‘domicile’ of hematopoietic stem cells, as well as of malignant processes that can develop there. Multiple and complex interactions with the BMM influence hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) physiology, but also the pathophysiology of hematological malignancies. Reciprocally, hematological malignancies alter the BMM, in order to render it more hospitable for malignant progression. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and accompanying poster, we highlight concepts of the normal and malignant hematopoietic stem cell niches. We present the intricacies of the BMM in malignancy and provide approaches for targeting the interactions between malignant cells and their BMM. This is done in an effort to augment existing treatment strategies in the future.
RNA thermosensors: how might animals exploit their regulatory potential?
Authors: Somero George N.
Published: February 2018

The secondary and tertiary orders of RNA structure are crucial for a suite of RNA-related functions, including regulation of translation, gene expression and RNA turnover. The temperature sensitivity of RNA secondary and tertiary structures is exploited by bacteria to fabricate RNA thermosensing systems that allow a rapid adaptive response to temperature change. RNA thermometers (RNATs) present in non-coding regions of certain mRNAs of pathogenic bacteria enable rapid upregulation of translation of virulence proteins when the temperature of the bacterium rises after entering a mammalian host. Rapid upregulation of translation of bacterial heat-shock proteins likewise is governed in part by RNATs. Turnover of mRNA may be regulated by temperature-sensitive RNA structures. Whereas the roles of temperature-sensitive RNA structures similar to RNATs in Eukarya and Archaea are largely unknown, there would appear to be a potential for all taxa to adaptively regulate their thermal physiology through exploitation of RNA-based thermosensory responses akin to those of bacteria. In animals, these responses might include regulation of translation of stress-induced proteins, alternative splicing of messenger RNA precursors, differential expression of allelic proteins, modulation of activities of small non-coding RNAs, regulation of mRNA turnover and control of RNA editing. New methods for predicting, detecting and experimentally modifying RNA secondary structure offer promising windows into these fascinating aspects of RNA biochemistry. Elucidating whether animals too have exploited the types of RNA thermosensing tools that are used so effectively by bacteria seems likely to provide exciting new insights into the mechanisms of evolutionary adaptation and acclimatization to temperature.
Environmental enrichment modulates the response to chronic stress in zebrafish
Authors: Marcon Matheus , Mocelin Ricieri , Benvenutti Radharani , Costa Tales , Herrmann Ana P. , de Oliveira Diogo L. , Koakoski Gessi , Barcellos Leonardo J. G. , Piato Angelo
Published: February 2018

Several studies have shown that manipulations to the housing environment modulate the susceptibility to stress in laboratory animals, mainly in rodents. Environmental enrichment (EE) is one such manipulation that promotes neuroprotection and neurogenesis, besides affecting behaviors such as drug self-administration. Zebrafish are a popular and useful animal model for behavioral neuroscience studies; however, studies evaluating the impact of housing conditions in this species are scarce. In this study, we verified the effects of EE on behavioral (novel tank test) and biochemical (cortisol and reactive oxygen species (ROS)) parameters in zebrafish submitted to unpredictable chronic stress (UCS). Consistent with our previous findings, UCS increased anxiety-like behavior, cortisol and ROS levels in zebrafish. EE for 21 or 28 days attenuated the effects induced by UCS on behavior and cortisol, and prevented the effects on ROS levels. Our findings reinforce the idea that EE exerts neuromodulatory effects across species, reducing vulnerability to stress and its biochemical impact. Also, these results indicate that zebrafish is a suitable model animal to study the behavioral effects and neurobiological mechanisms related to EE.
Chiral Phenomena in Multinuclear and Metallosupramolecular Coordination Systems Derived from Metalloligands with Thiol-Containing Amino Acids
Authors: Yoshinari Nobuto , Konno Takumi
Published: February 2018

In this account, we focus on the stereochemical and chiral behavior of S-bridged multinuclear and metallosupramolecular coordination compounds that are derived from mononuclear metal complexes with cysteine (H2cys) or penicillamine (H2pen). The mononuclear complexes act as versatile metalloligands with amine and/or carboxyl groups, in addition to the thiol groups, as donor sites, allowing them to form a large variety of coordination compounds in combination with additional metal ions. Several chiral elements, such as chiral metal centers, asymmetric bridging sulfur atoms, and molecular and supramolecular helicity, in addition to asymmetric carbon atoms, are created in the resulting molecular and crystal structures, and their absolute configurations are often controlled to produce a single kind of homochiral species. In addition, this metalloligand approach leads to several unique chiral phenomena, such as stimulus-responsive chiral switching/inversion based on geometrical changes in metal centers, highly efficient chiral recognition between multinuclear complex cations and anions, and unusual spontaneous resolution behavior, in the resulting coordination systems.
Compliance of Adolescent Girls to Repeated Deployments of Wrist-Worn Accelerometers
Authors: ROWLANDS ALEX V. , HARRINGTON DEIRDRE M. , BODICOAT DANIELLE H. , Davies MELANIE J. , SHERAR LAUREN B. , GORELY TRISH , KHUNTI KAMLESH , EDWARDSON CHARLOTTE L.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the cross-sectional and cumulative compliance of adolescent girls to accelerometer wear at three deployment points and to identify variables associated with compliance.

Methods

Girls from 20 secondary schools were recruited: 10 schools were participating in the “Girls Active” intervention and 10 were control schools. Physical activity was measured using the GENEActiv accelerometer worn on the nondominant wrist 24 h·d−1 for up to 7 d at baseline, 7 months, and 14 months. Demographic and anthropometric characteristics were recorded.

Results

Seven valid days (≥16 h) of accelerometer wear was obtained from 83%, 77%, and 68% of girls at baseline (n = 1734), 7 months (n = 1381), and 14 months (n = 1326), respectively. Sixty-eight percent provided 7 valid days for both baseline and 7 months, 59% for baseline and 14 months, and 52% for all three deployment points. Estimates of physical activity level from 3 d of measurement could be considered equivalent to a 7-d measure (i.e., they fell within a ±5% equivalence zone). Cross sectionally, 3 valid days was obtained from at least 91% of girls; cumulatively, this was obtained from ≥88% of girls across any two deployment points and 84% of girls across all three deployment points. When controlling for clustering at school level and other potential predictors, physical activity level, being South Asian, being in the intervention group, and prior compliance were positively associated with monitor wear.

Conclusions

Compliance reduced across deployment points, with the reduction increasing as the deployment points got further apart. High prior compliance and high physical activity level were associated with the most additional wear time.
A novel initiative to improve access to medicines for control of non-communicable diseases in low-and middle- income countries
Authors: Mobula Linda Meta , Sarfo Stephen , Arthur Lynda , Burnham Gilbert , Ansong Daniel , Plange-Rhule Jacob , Ofori-Adjei David
Published: February 2018

The global burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is growing, and access to prevention and treatment strategies remain limited, especially for those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Novel approaches are needed to improve access and affordability of medicines that can treat NCDs in LMICs. An integrated approach including differential pricing, health systems strengthening, improved supply chain management and greater affordability can improve access to innovative branded medicines for NCDs.

While differential pricing has several advantages for improving the affordability of NCD medicines in LMICs, it can’t overcome all access barriers as a standalone approach.  An integrated approach to health systems strengthening, supply chain management and affordability are needed to overcome key challenges in getting medicines for NCD to patients in LMICs.

The Access and Affordability Initiative (AAI) is a public private partnership aiming to improve access to and availability of essential medicines for the treatment of NCDs and strengthening of health systems. Through this novel initiative a prospective cohort of patients with hypertension and diabetes were followed in Ghana and the Philippines to examine the effect of differential pricing on access to treatment of hypertension and diabetes.