bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape of systemic therapy for ovarian cancer in 2019: Primary therapy
Authors: Fujiwara Keiichi , Hasegawa Kosei , Nagao Shoji
Published: December 2019

According to the statement from the 5th Ovarian Cancer Consensus Conference in 2015, the primary systemic chemotherapy for advanced ovarian cancer is a combination of paclitaxel plus carboplatin administered every 3 weeks (PCq3w). Optional alternatives include weekly dose‐dense paclitaxel, in combination and maintenance therapy with bevacizumab, and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Since then, in addition to the PCq3w strategy, there has been emerging new evidence, especially for poly(adenosine diphosphate–ribose) polymerase inhibitors. Moreover, there are multiple randomized, phase 3 trials testing the addition of antiangiogenic and/or immune checkpoint inhibitors in this patient population. In this article, current and future perspectives of systemic chemotherapy for advanced ovarian cancer are discussed.
Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy does not improve survival in advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Vergote Ignace , Harter Philipp , Chiva Luis
Published: December 2019

Despite its widespread use, until recently, there was no randomized evidence for hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) versus surgery without HIPEC for ovarian cancer. Recently, a Dutch study (OVHIPEC) reported benefits in both progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) gained from the use of HIPEC at the time of interval debulking surgery (IDS) for stage III ovarian carcinoma, whereas a Korean randomized trial failed to show a benefit of HIPEC for patients with ovarian cancer undergoing primary debulking surgery or IDS. In colorectal cancer, 2 randomized trials failed to show an improvement in survival with HIPEC. In addition to these contradictory results, there are a number of aspects of the Dutch OVHIPEC trial in ovarian cancer that can be criticized. Some criticisms include a reduction of the number of patients needed to be randomized because of too slow accrual; much lower PFS and OS in both arms than expected according to the statistical plan; the small size of the study, with imbalances between the 2 arms (eg, more low‐grade tumors in the HIPEC arm); the timing of randomization before the start of IDS; the lack of clear inclusion criteria for neoadjuvant chemotherapy; and the heterogeneity of the results, with the largest effect shown at the smaller centers. Furthermore, it is questionable whether the adverse events were reported completely. In conclusion, data about HIPEC for ovarian cancer in general are not convincing, and they do not change the standard of care, which remains for ovarian cancer surgery and intravenous chemotherapy.
Targeting fusions for improved outcomes in oncology treatment
Authors: Nikanjam Mina , Okamura Ryosuke , Barkauskas Donald A. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: December 2019

Background

Fusions are increasingly pursued as oncology therapeutic targets. The current study evaluated differences in outcomes for fusion versus nonfusion targets.

Methods

Outcomes were compared for patients with fusions versus those with other alterations for US Food and Drug Administration–approved single agents (from package inserts) and for patients treated at the University of California at San Diego.

Results

A total of 28 drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (6189 patients) were included in the analysis. The median response rate was 68% versus 50% for fusions versus nonfusion matches (odds ratio [OR], 1.67; P < .0001); solid tumor therapies had an OR of 2.07 (P < .0001) and hematologic therapies had an OR of 3.35 (P < .0001) for fusion versus nonfusion targets. The University of California at San Diego analysis included 79 patients in whom fusions were treated of the 2455 patients screened. Patients matched to fusions were found to have a longer median progression‐free survival (PFS) (11.6 months; 95% CI, 4.0‐35.4 months) compared with those unmatched to fusions (4.9 months; 95% CI, 3.5‐8.8 months) (P = .034). Patients with fusions matched to other alterations present in the tumor had a median PFS that was indistinguishable from that of those patients with fusions who were treated with unmatched therapy (4.0 months vs 5.0 months; P = .75).

Conclusions

Significantly higher response rates and a longer PFS were observed when targeting fusions compared with nonfusions. The observations reported in the current study suggest that fusions are important targets and that additional studies are needed to confirm that optimized therapy may require targeting fusions, even in the presence of other alterations.
The Effect of Food on the Single‐Dose Bioavailability and Tolerability of the Highest Marketed Strength of Duloxetine
Authors: Rizea‐Savu Simona , Duna Simona Nicoleta , Ghita Adrian , Iordachescu Adriana , Chirila Marinela
Published: December 2019

Duloxetine is a combined serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor indicated in adults for the treatment of major depressive disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, and generalized anxiety disorder. The aim of these studies was to evaluate the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics and safety of duloxetine 60‐mg gastroresistant hard capsules following single‐dose administration. The data were obtained from 2 phase 1 bioequivalence studies, 1 in a fasting state and the other under fed conditions. Both studies have shown that, when administered as a single dose in the same prandial state, the test and reference duloxetine treatments were bioequivalent and exhibited similar safety profiles. The mean fed and fasting pharmacokinetic parameters and drug‐related adverse events from the 2 studies were compared in order to assess the effect of food on the duloxetine bioavailability and respectively, tolerability. Administration of duloxetine in fed conditions increased peak plasma concentration by up to 30% and delayed mean time to peak concentration by an average of 1.15 hours while having an insignificant effect on extent of absorption (area under the plasma concentration–time curve in fed state within ±6% as compared with fasting conditions). Even though peak plasma levels were substantially higher in the fed state, there was no negative impact on the drug's safety profile. Actually, administration with food resulted in a lower average number of adverse events per single dose exposure. The negligible variation in overall systemic exposure suggests that efficacy remains unchanged irrespective of administration conditions; however, a better tolerability of the 60‐mg dose is expected when the drug is taken with food.
Arabidopsis Thaliana: From Weed to Model Organism
Authors: Diaz Michael
Published: December 2019

Arabidopsis thaliana is a small plant of significant economic and agronomic importance. While Arabidopsis is not a crop plant, it is not so different in its fundamental properties. Arabidopsis is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which constitutes one of the world's most economically important plant groups. According to the United Nations, globally Brassicaceae crops are worth $31 billion, and the number is likely to increase since a number of related species within this family are underutilized edible varieties. Its small size is an advantage to researchers with limited space and funding; simply put, a smaller plant requires fewer resources. Arabidopsis has been studied most intensely for the last 40 years and officially became a model plant in the late 1990s. Since then, the community has developed genetic and genomic resources so numerous that the barrier to entry to studying Arabidopsis is relatively low. This article provides a primer to how Arabidopsis came to be a model organism and highlights essential techniques every Arabidopsis researcher should be aware of to advance the pace of discovery. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Use of Mobile Applications in Research
Authors: Gallagher Sean R.
Published: December 2019

In science and engineering, there are a range of easy‐to‐access software applications for smart phones, tablets, and laptop and desktop computers that greatly simplify basic and advanced laboratory research activities. The available software programs include numerous mobile and web‐friendly applications for electronic laboratory notebooks, project planning, solution calculations, and advanced scientific calculations and analysis, and even simple‐to‐use apps for your favorite scientific meetings. A typical collection of mobile‐friendly applications is discussed here in the context of preparing, performing, and presenting your research. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
“Hetero‐Multifunctionalization” of Gallium Corroles: Facile Synthesis, Phosphorescence, Redox Tuning, and Photooxidative Catalytic Improvement
Authors: Zhan Xuan , Zini Yael , Fridman Natalia , Chen Qiu‐Cheng , Churchill David G. , Gross Zeev
Published: December 2019

Bromination of tris‐ and tetrakis‐trifluoromethylated gallium corroles (3CF3−Ga and 4CF3−Ga) afforded tetrabrominated species 3CF3−4Br−Ga and 4CF3−4Br−Ga (yields: 20 % and 25 %) characterized by NMR, UV‐vis spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Red‐shifted absorption and emission bands were found; 3CF3−4Br−Ga and 4CF3−4Br−Ga displayed 5–12 nm shifts in their Soret bands and 8–17 nm shifts for their Q bands, compared to the respective nonbrominated species (3CF3−Ga and 4CF3−Ga). The respective ΦF values were found to be 0.013 and 0.016; phosphorescence (lifetime=0.23 μs) was observed for 3CF3−4Br−Ga (anaerobic, RT). The effect of tetrabromination on redox potentials (0.89 and 0.99 V) gave a 85 mV shift per Br atom in the reduction potential. 4CF3−4Br−Ga allows for efficient catalytic photooxidative Br− to Br2 conversion compared to the β‐octa‐Br system (Br8−Ga) structurally characterized here. This “hetero‐multifunctionalization” approach, that is, is substitution with different sets of β‐substituents, can help optimize porphyrinoid properties.
Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Ball Brianna , Geddes‐McAlister Jennifer
Published: December 2019

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic human fungal pathogen commonly associated with infection in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., patients with HIV/AIDS). Important virulence determinants include the production of a polysaccharide capsule, melanin, and extracellular enzymes, as well as the ability to grow at 37°C. C. neoformans controls a plethora of host defense and evasion mechanisms to survive during infection and to proliferate within the host, causing meningoencephalitis and death. Traditionally, characterization of C. neoformans under different environmental conditions and stresses has relied on genetic and phenotypic analyses, as well as biochemical assays. However, advances in mass spectrometry instrumentation, sample preparation protocols, and bioinformatic tools and databases promote comprehensive profiling of fungal cellular processes, secretion or protein release into the extracellular environment, and vesicle contents. Moreover, proteomics provides insight into regulatory mechanisms influencing signal transduction cascades and protein complexes or networks through profiling of post‐translational modifications and protein–protein interactions. Given the medical impact of C. neoformans infections and the recent emergence of antifungal‐resistant strains, defining proteins produced in response to unique environments provides an opportunity to uncover antivirulence strategies and alternative therapeutic options to combat infection. Here, we describe culturing and sample preparation of C. neoformans and outline protocols for comprehensively profiling changes in protein abundance within the cellular proteome and secretome. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Growth and sample preparation of Cryptococcus neoformans

Basic Protocol 2: Protein extraction from supernatant

Basic Protocol 3: Protein extraction from cell pellet

Basic Protocol 4: Proteomic profiling and bioinformatics
Salivary concentrations of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli during an orthodontic treatment. An observational study comparing fixed and removable orthodontic appliances
Authors: Mummolo Stefano , Tieri Marco , Nota Alessandro , Caruso Silvia , Darvizeh Atanaz , Albani Francesca , Gatto Roberto , Marzo Giuseppe , Marchetti Enrico , Quinzi Vincenzo , Tecco Simona
Published: December 2019

Aim

This study aimed to investigate salivary concentrations of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and some Lactobacilli, and plaque index (PI) in patients wearing fixed versus removable orthodontic appliances.

Methods

A sample of 90 orthodontic patients (56 males and 34 females) was included in the study: 30 subjects (aged 21.5±1.5 years) were treated with removable clear aligners (CA), while for other 30 cases (aged 23.3±1.6 years) a fixed multibrackets appliance (MB) were utilized, and 30 patients (aged 18.2 ±1.5 years) wearied a removable positioner (RP). Salivary concentrations of S. mutans and Lactobacilli and PI were evaluated prior to start of the orthodontic treatment, after 3 months and 6 months.

Results

After 6 months, 40% of MB patients (12 subjects over 30) showed a concentration of S. mutans associated to high risk of developing tooth decay (CFU/ml>105), differently from participants wearing removable appliances (odds ratio = 5.05; 95% C.I. = 1.72‐14.78; chi‐square = 9.64; p = 0.0019). The same trens was observed for the concentration of Lactobacilli (odds ratio = 4.33; 95% C.I. = 1.53‐12.3; chi‐square = 8.229; p = 0.004).

In addition, over the duration of the study, CA patients maintained PI at 0 level, while MB patients experienced a statistically significant increasing trend of PI over time, and their PI became clinically/statistically relevant after 6 months, respect to CA and RP patients.

Conclusions

Comparing all the data, while, after 6 months, only about 10% of CA patients and 13.3% of RP patients achieved a microbial colonization which may lead to high risk of caries development, about 40% of MB patients ‐ and 20% after 3 months ‐ showed a high level of vulnerability to developing caries, which require additional strategies for plaque control and microbial colonization to be employed.
H2‐free Synthesis of Aromatic, Cyclic and Linear Oxygenates from CO2
Authors: Gomez Laura Quintana , Shehab Amal K. , Al‐Shathr Ali , Ingram William , Konstantinova Mariia , Cumming Denis , McGregor James
Published: December 2019

The synthesis of oxygenate products, including cyclic ketones and phenol, from carbon dioxide and water in the absence of gas‐phase hydrogen has been demonstrated. The reaction takes place in subcritical conditions at 300 °C and pressure at room temperature of 25 barg. This is the first observation of the production of cyclic ketones by this route and represents a step towards the synthesis of valuable intermediates and products, including methanol, without relying on fossil sources or hydrogen, which carries a high carbon footprint in its production by conventional methods. Inspiration for these studies was taken directly from natural processes occurring in hydrothermal environments around ocean vents. Bulk iron and iron oxides were investigated to provide a benchmark for further studies, whereas reactions over alumina and zeolite‐based catalysts were employed to demonstrate, for the first time, the ability to use catalyst properties such as acidity and pore size to direct the reaction towards specific products. Bulk iron and iron oxides produced methanol as the major product in concentrations of approximately 2–3 mmol L−1. By limiting the hydrogen availability through increasing the initial CO2/H2O ratio the reaction could be directed to yield phenol. Alumina and zeolites were both observed to enhance the production of longer‐chained species (up to C8), likely owing to the role of acid sites in catalysing rapid oligomerisation reactions. Notably, zeolite‐based catalysts promoted the formation of cyclic ketones. These proof‐of‐concept studies show the potential of this process to contribute to sustainable development through either targeting methanol production as part of a “methanol economy” or longer‐chained species including phenol and cyclic ketones.
An asynchronous pulse width modulator for DC‐DC buck converter
Authors: Inanlou Reza , Shoaei Omid , Tamaddon Mohsen
Published: December 2019

This paper presents an asynchronous pulse width modulation (APWM) approach for the analysis of a new class of the switched mode power supply (SMPS). The proposed APWM significantly simplified the mathematical analysis by utilizing a binary comparator (BAPWM) and a distinctive delay cell instead of hysteretic comparator. By this way, the mathematical analysis can be extended to study the behavior of high‐order self‐oscillating modulators in terms of key parameters such as the harmonic distortion and the stability. The performance of the proposed BAPWM is deeply analyzed for different orders of loop filters (here up to third order) in both time and frequency domain. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed analytical derivations, the BAPWMs are employed in a classic synchronous DC‐DC buck converter and its closed loop performance, in terms of stability, has been investigated. Then the converter is designed and simulated in 130‐nm CMOS technology to convert input voltage of 5 to 3.3 V with maximum load current of 1 A, using Spectre simulator. From the post‐layout simulation results, the peak efficiency conversion efficiency for 3.3 V output voltage is higher than 89%.
Quantitative and qualitative consequences of reduced pollen loads in a mixed‐mating plant
Authors: Hildesheim Laura S. , Opedal Øystein H. , Armbruster W. Scott , Pélabon Christophe
Published: December 2019

Greater pollination intensity can enhance maternal plant fitness by increasing seed set and seed quality as a result of more intense pollen competition or enhanced genetic sampling. We tested experimentally these effects by varying the pollen load from a single pollen donor on stigmas of female flowers of Dalechampia scandens (Euphorbiaceae) and measuring the effects on seed number and seed mass. Seed set increased rapidly with pollen number at low to moderate pollen loads, and a maximum set of three seeds occurred with a mean pollen load of 19 pollen grains. We did not detect a trade‐off between the number of seeds and seed mass within a fruit. Seed mass increased with increasing pollen load, supporting the hypothesis of enhanced seed quality via increased pollen‐competition intensity or genetic sampling. These results suggest that maternal fitness increases with larger pollen loads, even when the fertilization success is already high. Our results further highlight the importance of high rates of pollen arrival onto stigmas, as mediated by reliable pollinators. Comparing the pollen‐to‐seed response curve obtained in this experiment with those observed in natural populations suggests that pollen limitation may be more severe in natural populations than predicted from greenhouse studies. These results also indicate that declines in pollinator abundance may decrease plant fitness through lowered seed quality before an effect on seed set is detected.
Rhodium(I)‐Catalyzed Arylative Annulation of β‐Alkynyl Ketones for Preparation of Fused Aromatics
Authors: Matsuda Takanori , Izutsu Takashi , Hashimoto Masaru
Published: December 2019

Rhodium(I)‐catalyzed addition of arylboronic acids to β‐(arylethynyl) ketones proceeds through 1,4‐rhodium migration to afford 4‐(arylmethylene)tetralin‐1‐ols, which upon treatment with triflic anhydride furnish (arylmethyl)naphthalenes through sequential dehydration–aromatization. Fused aromatic compounds with three to five rings have been prepared using the arylative annulation strategy.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Tetrahydroisoquinolines from Chiral 4‐Azaocta‐1,7‐diynes and 4‐Azaocta‐1,7‐enynes
Authors: Sirvent Ana , García‐Muñoz M. Jesús , Yus Miguel , Foubelo Francisco
Published: December 2019

The N‐propargylation of enantioenriched homopropargylic amine derivatives 3 proceeds in high yields under basic conditions. The resulting 4‐azaocta‐1,7‐dynes 5 were transformed into 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrosioquinolines 7 bearing substituents at 3‐, 6‐ and 7‐positions, upon reaction with symmetrical alkynes, through a [2+2+2] cyclotrimerization promoted by Wilkinson catalyst. Ruthenium‐catalyzed ring closing metathesis of azaocta‐1,7‐enynes 9a and 15a gave 1,3‐dienes 10a and 16a, respectively, in high yields. Tetrahydroisoquinolines 12a and 18a, with a substitution pattern in the aromatic ring different to that of compounds 7, were prepared by a [4+2] cycloaddition of dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate with dienes 10a and 16a, respectively.
Molecular Recognition of Phenylalanine Enantiomers onto a Solid Surface Modified with Electropolymerized Pyrrole‐β‐Cyclodextrin Conjugate
Authors: Shishkanova Tatiana V. , Habanová Nina , Řezanka Michal , Broncová Gabriela , Fitl Přemysl , Vrňata Martin , Matějka Pavel
Published: December 2019

We report the electrochemical deposition of a β‐cyclodextrin pyrrole conjugate (Py‐β‐CD) on an electrode surface including i) characterization based on surface‐enhanced Raman scattering and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy; ii) studies of the molecular recognition of enantiomers of phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochlorides (Phe) based on linear sweep voltammetry and a quartz crystal microbalance. The PPy‐β‐CD polymeric layer on a metallic substrate is distinguished by its inhomogeneity, in which both highly ordered β‐CD units and highly disordered polymer chains are observed. The voltammetric recognition results showed that PPy‐β‐CD exhibited a higher sensitivity for d‐Phe (138±15)×103 than for l‐Phe (6±1)×103  within the concentration range 0.1–0.75 mM (n=3) despite the differences in the polymer arrangement on the surface. A possible mechanism of molecular recognition of phenylalanine enantiomers is discussed.
Nonaqueous electrophoresis on microchips: A review
Authors: Duarte Lucas M. , Moreira Roger C. , Coltro Wendell K. T.
Published: December 2019

The use of organic solvents as electrolytic medium in electrophoresis has become an important alternative for the analysis of compounds that exhibit low or no solubility in water. In recent years, nonaqueous electrophoresis has been extensively explored in conventional capillary systems for different applications. On the other hand, this separation strategy is still not as popular as free solution electrophoresis on chip‐based platforms due to the effects of solvent in the background electrolyte on the sample injection, detection performance, and microfluidic platform compatibility. In this way, this review summarizes the main achievements on nonaqueous microchip electrophoresis (NAME). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review dedicated to discuss exclusively nonaqueous electrophoresis on chip‐based systems. For this purpose, some important theoretical aspects involved when separations are performed in organic medium, such as equilibrium, interactions and electrophoretic considerations, are included in the review. In addition, the main challenges, advantages and influences of nonaqueous media on the sample injection, detection as well as the choice of the substrate to fabricate chip‐based electrophoresis devices are highlighted. Last, examples showing the feasibility of nonaqueous microchip electrophoresis for applications exploiting different methodologies, operational, and instrumental conditions are summarized and discussed. We hope this review can be useful to spread the huge potential of nonaqueous electrophoresis on microfluidic platforms.
Quantitative Interpretation of Genetic Toxicity Dose‐Response Data for Risk Assessment and Regulatory Decision‐Making: Current Status and Emerging Priorities
Authors: White Paul A. , Long Alexandra S. , Johnson George E.
Published: December 2019

The screen‐and‐bin approach for interpretation of genotoxicity data is predicated on three false assumptions: that genotoxicants are rare, that genotoxicity dose–response functions do not contain a low‐dose region mechanistically characterized by zero‐order kinetics, and that genotoxicity is not a bona fide toxicological endpoint. Consequently, there is a need to develop and implement quantitative methods to interpret genotoxicity dose–response data for risk assessment and regulatory decision‐making. Standardized methods to analyze dose–response data, and determine point‐of‐departure (PoD) metrics, have been established; the most robust PoD is the benchmark dose (BMD). However, there are no standards for regulatory interpretation of mutagenicity BMDs. Although 5–10% is often used as a critical effect size (CES) for BMD determination, values for genotoxicity endpoints have not been established. The use of BMDs to determine health‐based guidance values (HBGVs) requires assessment factors (AFs) to account for interspecies differences and variability in human sensitivity. Default AFs used for other endpoints may not be appropriate for interpretation of in vivo mutagenicity BMDs. Analyses of published dose–response data showing the effects of compensatory pathway deficiency indicate that AFs for sensitivity differences should be in the range of 2–20. Additional analyses indicate that the AF to compensate for short treatment durations should be in the range of 5–15. Future work should use available data to empirically determine endpoint‐specific CES values; similarly, to determine AF values for BMD adjustment. Future work should also evaluate the ability to use in vitro dose–response data for risk assessment, and the utility of probabilistic methods for determination of mutagenicity HBGVs. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:66–83, 2020. © 2019 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada
NaCl‐Templated and Polyvinylpyrrolidone‐Assisted Fabrication of a MnO/C‐rGO Composite as a High‐Capacity Anode Material for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Xie Zhicheng , Min Xiuqin , Yuan Anbao , Xu Jiaqiang
Published: December 2019

A 3D hierarchically‐heterostructured manganese oxide/pyrolytic carbon and reduced graphene oxide composite material (MnO/PC‐rGO) is synthesized by the in situ redox reaction between a PC‐rGO carbon aerogel framework and KMnO4 solution, followed by heat treatment in an inert atmosphere. Herein, the 3D porous PC‐rGO carbon aerogel is prepared via crystal sodium chloride (NaCl)‐templated and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)‐assisted freeze drying in the presence of graphene oxide (GO) and high‐temperature pyrolysis. As an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries, this composite exhibits a high charge capacity of ≈1030 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 and 515 mAh g−1 at 2000 mA g−1. After cycling at 500 mA g−1 for 200 cycles, the capacity retention is ≈70%, demonstrating much superior lithium storage performance over the MnO/PC composite prepared under similar conditions. The superior electrochemical performance is ascribed to its good electrode kinetics behavior and the supernumerary capacity contribution of the PC‐rGO carbon framework due to the presence of rGO in the composite. As a synergic carbon support, the rGO can not only increase the specific capacity and rate capability but also improve the cyclability due to the enhanced electrical conductivity and the buffering effect of the flexible PC‐rGO against a large volume change during cycling.
Bayesian spatial analysis of hardwood tree counts in forests via MCMC
Authors: Entezari Reihaneh , Brown Patrick E. , Rosenthal Jeffrey S.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we use a Bayesian spatial model to spatially interpolate forest inventory data from the Timiskaming and Abitibi River forests in Ontario, Canada. We consider a Bayesian generalized linear geostatistical model and implement a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm to sample from its posterior distribution. How spatial predictions for new sites in the forests change as the amount of training data is reduced is studied and compared with a Bayesian logistic regression model without a spatial effect. Finally, we discuss a stratified sampling approach for selecting subsets of data that allows for potential better predictions.
An effective toluene removal from waste‐air by a simple process based on absorption in silicone oil (PDMS) and cross‐linked Brassica rapa peroxidase (BRP‐CLEAs) catalysis in organic medium: Optimization with RSM
Authors: Tandjaoui Nassima , Wolbert Dominique , Couvert Annabelle , Abouseoud Mahmoud , Amrane Abdeltif , Tassist Amina
Published: December 2019

In the present study, absorption in an organic solvent followed by enzymatic biodegradation by cross‐linked peroxidase from Brassica rapa (BRP‐CLEAs) was successfully applied as a solution for toluene removal from waste‐air in batch experiments. Silicone oil (PDMS 47V20) showed a high capacity for toluene absorption, regarding its air‐PDMS partition coefficient (2.08 Pa m3 mol−1) when compared to air‐water (666 Pa m3 mol−1). Box–Behnken restricted duplicate design was employed for the optimization of the enzymatic degradation of toluene in PDMS. Effects of four independent variables, namely, BRP‐CLEAs activity, toluene and hydrogen peroxide concentrations and sonication, were studied by choosing two responses: conversion yield and initial rate of reaction. Analysis of the results showed that both hydrogen peroxide and toluene concentrations presented the largest effect on the process while sonication had no effect. On the other hand, the coefficient of determination R2 and the adjusted R2 were 0.828 and 0.770 for conversion and 0.919 and 0.911 for initial rate, respectively. The optimum conversion determined was 60% of toluene removal.
Community norms for the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire among cisgender gay men
Authors: Nagata Jason M. , Capriotti Matthew R. , Murray Stuart B. , Compte Emilio J. , Griffiths Scott , Bibbins‐Domingo Kirsten , Obedin‐Maliver Juno , Flentje Annesa , Lubensky Micah E. , Lunn Mitchell R.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Prior norms of the Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) among men have not considered sexual orientation. This study's objective was to assess EDE‐Q community norms among cisgender gay men.

Method

Participants were 978 self‐identified cisgender gay men from The PRIDE Study recruited in 2018.

Results

We present mean scores and standard deviations for the EDE‐Q among cisgender gay men ages 18–82. Among cisgender gay men, 4.0% scored in the clinically significant range on the global score, 5.7% on the restraint, 2.1% on the eating concern, 10.5% on the weight concern, and 21.4% on the shape concern subscales of the EDE‐Q. The global score as well as weight and shape concerns in a young adult subsample (18–26 years) from The PRIDE Study were higher than previously reported norms in young men (Lavender, 2010). Participants reported any occurrence (≥1/28 days) of dietary restraint (19.8%), objective binge episodes (10.9%), excessive exercise (10.1%), laxative misuse (1.1%), and self‐induced vomiting (0.6%). Binge eating, excessive exercise, and self‐induced vomiting in The PRIDE Study subsample were lower than previously reported in young men.

Discussion

We provide EDE‐Q norms among cisgender gay men, which should aid clinicians and researchers to interpret the EDE‐Q scores of cisgender gay men.
Research on the plume shape under optimal wind environment to prevent the smoke backflow and combustion gains in utility tunnel
Authors: Zheng Yuan , Ye Kai , Liu Hong , Peng Fei , Cao Bei , Huang Yubiao , Yang Lizhong
Published: December 2019

The utility tunnels have been applied extensively to run the various pipelines in the urban areas such as the gas pipeline, electrical power cables, and the likes. Contradicting with the rapid development of the utility tunnels is the ambiguity of the fire protection code to which one critical point is whether to ventilate in the fire accident, which is hampered by the effect of wind on the combustion gain. Therefore, this paper combines the plume function with the backlayering length and critical backflow velocity to explore the plume shape, optimize the ventilation environment, and decrease its combustion gain in which shows three key features that include the concavity and convexity characteristics, instability of plume, and the balance feature. Moreover, through their derived five plume shape constraints, we acquire the optimal wind environment. Furthermore, we found that the expected length is 0.12 in optimal condition when the original critical velocity is larger than 0.43, and the other cases are 0.05 for expected length. Meanwhile, the ventilation velocity needs to be increased three to seven times. The study provides new insight into the plume flow under the wind environment and would accelerate the formalization of fire protection design for utility tunnel.
Glia of the human retina
Authors: Reichenbach Andreas , Bringmann Andreas
Published: December 2019

The human retina contains three types of glial cells: microglia and two types of macroglia, astrocytes and Müller cells. Macroglia provide homeostatic and metabolic support to photoreceptors and neurons required for neuronal activity. The fovea, the site of the sharpest vision which is astrocyte‐ and microglia‐free, contains two populations of Müller glia: cells which form the Müller cell cone in the foveola and z‐shaped Müller cells of the foveal walls. Both populations are characterized by morphological and functional differences. Müller cells of the foveola do not support the activity of photoreceptors and neurons, but provide the structural stability of the foveal tissue and improve the light transmission through the tissue to the photoreceptors. This article gives overviews of the glia of the human retina and the structure and function of both Müller cell types in the fovea, and describes the contributions of astrocytes and Müller cells to the ontogenetic development of the fovea.
Albumin domain mutants with enhanced Aβ binding capacity identified by phage display analysis for application in various peripheral Aβ elimination approaches of Alzheimer's disease treatment
Authors: Ishima Yu , Mimono Ai , Tuan Giam Chuang Victor , Fukuda Tetsuya , Kusumoto Kohshi , Okuhira Keiichiro , Suwa Yoshiaki , Watanabe Hiroshi , Ishida Tatsuhiro , Morioka Hiroshi , Maruyama Toru , Otagiri Masaki
Published: December 2019

Deposition of amyloid protein, particularly Aβ1‐42, is a major contributor to the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, almost no deposition of Aβ in the peripheral tissues could be found. Human serum albumin (HSA), the most abundant protein in the blood, has been reported to inhibit amyloid formation through binding Aβ, which is believed to play an important role in the peripheral clearance of Aβ. We identified the Aβ binding site on HSA and developed HSA mutants with high binding capacities for Aβ using a phage display method. HSA fragment 187–385 (Domain II) was found to exhibit the highest binding capacity for Aβ compared with the other two HSA fragments. To elucidate the sequence that forms the binding site for Aβ on Domain II, a random screening of Domain II display phage biopanning was constructed. A number of mutants with higher Aβ binding capacities than the wild type were identified. These mutants exhibited stronger scavenging abilities than the wild type, as revealed via in vitro equilibrium dialysis of Aβ experiments. These findings provide useful basic data for developing a safer alternative therapy than Aβ vaccines and for application in plasma exchange as well as extracorporeal dialysis.
Extended multiplicative signal correction for FTIR spectral quality test and pre‐processing of infrared imaging data
Authors: Tafintseva Valeria , Shapaval Volha , Smirnova Margarita , Kohler Achim
Published: December 2019

Spectral quality control is an important step in the analysis of infrared spectral data, however, often neglected in scientific literature. A frequently used quality test that was originally developed for infrared spectra of bacteria is provided by OPUS software from Bruker Optik GmbH. In this study, the OPUS quality test is applied to a large number of spectra of bacteria, yeasts and moulds and hyperspectral images of microorganisms. It is shown that the use of strict thresholds for parameters of the OPUS quality test leads to discarding too many spectra. A strategy for optimizing parameters thresholds of the OPUS quality test is provided and a novel approach for spectral quality testing based on extended multiplicative signal correction (EMSC) is suggested. For all the data sets considered in our study, the EMSC quality test is shown to be the best among different alternatives of OPUS quality test provided.
Downregulation of microRNA let‐7f mediated the Adriamycin resistance in leukemia cell line
Authors: Cao Yi‐Xiong , Wen Feng , Luo Ze‐Yu , Long Xing‐Xing , Luo Cong , Liao Pei , Li Jun‐Jun
Published: December 2019

Multidrug resistance (MDR) has become the major cause of failure chemotherapy for leukemia and high mortality of leukemia. The study aimed to investigate whether the let‐7f mediate the Adriamycin (ADR) resistance of leukemia, and to explore the potential molecular mechanism. Cell proliferation was examined by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide and the soft agar clone formation assay. Flow cytometry was performed to detected cell cycle and apoptosis. The targeted regulationship was analyzed by dual‐luciferase assay. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were used to measure the expressions of let‐7f, ABCC5, ABCC10, cell cycle‐related proteins, and apoptosis‐related proteins. The xenograft mouse model was used to conduct the tumor formation assay in vivo. The results demonstrated that the expression of let‐7f was lower in multidrug‐resistant K562/A02 cell lines compared to that in K562, while ABCC5 and ABCC10 were upregulated. Overexpression of let‐7f in K562/A02 cell lines downregulated the ABCC5 and ABCC10 expression, enhanced cell sensitivity to ADR, promoted cell apoptosis, and inhibited cell proliferation. let‐7f was proved to negatively regulate ABCC5 and ABCC10. Tumor formation assay further determined that let‐7f overexpression increased sensitivity to ADR. Taken together, the let‐7f downregulation induced the ADR resistance of leukemia by upregulating ABCC5 and ABCC10 expression. Our study provided a novel perspective to study the mechanism of MDR and a new target for the reversal of MDR.
Diminished 25‐OH vitamin D3 levels and vitamin D receptor variants are associated with susceptibility to type 2 diabetes with coronary artery diseases
Authors: Ma Lei , Wang Shujin , Chen Heming , Cui Lin , Liu Xiaoxiang , Yang Hua , Li Guohong , Liu Songfang , Qi Ting , Tian Hongyan
Published: December 2019

Background

Role of plasma vitamin D and genetic variants of its receptor (VDR) in susceptibility to different diseases has been documented. Various studies in different populations have been highlighted strong associations with diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked with the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the onset of coronary artery diseases (CAD). However, the role of vitamin D in predisposition to CAD in patients with T2D is ill‐defined.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 674 Chinese T2D patients, and based on clinical phenotype, patients were further categorized into patients with (n = 138) or without coronary artery disease (n = 536). Five hundred twenty‐one healthy subjects from similar geographical areas, free from diabetic or coronary disorders, were enrolled as controls. Serum levels of 25‐OH vitamin D were quantified by ELISA. Common VDR (FokI, TaqI, BsmI, and ApaI) polymorphisms were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP).

Results

Patients with T2D displayed lower levels of 25‐OH vitamin D compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, T2D patients with CAD clinical phenotype had the lowest levels of vitamin D. Prevalence of FokI and TaqI mutants was significantly higher in diabetic patients when compared to controls. Interestingly, Tt genotype was more frequent in the artery disease group in comparison with T2D patients without heart involvement. Combined analysis of VDR polymorphisms and serum levels of vitamin D revealed a significant role in predisposition to T2D with or without CAD.

Conclusions

Lower vitamin D levels and variants of VDR polymorphisms (FokI and TaqI) are associated with susceptibility to T2D and clinical manifestation.
“We” are Different: Exploring the Diverse Effects of Friend and Family Accessibility on Consumers' Product Preferences
Authors: Fei Xianzheng , You Yanfen , Yang Xiaojing
Published: December 2019

Prior research suggests that close friends and family members exert similar effects on consumer behavior because both represent strong social ties and are subject to communal norms. However, drawing on regulatory focus theory, we postulate that accessibility of friend and family can have divergent impacts on consumers' subsequent purchase decisions. Across four experiments, as well as a pilot study, we demonstrate that accessibility of friend (vs. family) is more likely to activate a promotion focus, which results in more favorable consumer responses toward products with promotion‐focused appeals, whereas accessibility of family (vs. friend) is more likely to activate a prevention focus, which leads to more positive consumer responses toward products with prevention‐focused appeals.
Efficient degradation of Acid Orange 7 by persulfate activated with a novel developed carbon‐based MnFe2O4 composite catalyst
Authors: Du Jinying , Xu Wensi , Liu Jie , Zhao Zhiwei
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

A novel carbon‐based modified MnFe2O4 catalyst was first developed to produce sulfate radicals (SO4−•) by activation of persulfate (PS). The catalyst was fabricated with a mixture of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles and chitosan (which could form a large amount of carbon‐based biomass after pyrolysis) annealed at 600 °C and was referred to as CM‐600.

RESULTS

The microstructure of the composite catalyst CM‐600 showed that MnFe2O4 was supported on the surface of carbon‐based sheets. After modification by pyrolysis, the specific surface area of MnFe2O4 enlarged significantly and thus the contact area between catalyst and PS increased. X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the components of CM‐600. In comparison with the MnFe2O4/PS system, the activation of PS by CM‐600 was enhanced prominently, while 99.0% Acid Orange 7 (AO7) removal was achieved after reacting for 30 min. Investigations of influencing factors indicated the optimal treatment parameters. The two reactive species in the degradation process, namely free radicals (SO4−• and hydroxyl radicals (•OH)) and non‐radicals (singlet oxygen, 1O2), were confirmed by quenching tests and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. The corresponding degradation mechanism was proposed and SO4−• was generated primarily via the activation of PS by MnII and FeII.

CONCLUSION

The research demonstrated that the composite catalyst CM‐600 improved the property of MnFe2O4 for catalyzing PS and thus enlarged the practical application of SO4−• oxidation technology in pollutant degradation in aqueous environments. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of right ventricular dysfunction in patients with mitral stenosis: A speckle tracking study
Authors: Kalkan Kamuran , Kalkan Fikriye , Aksakal Emrah , Gulcu Oktay , Lazoglu Zakir , Aksu Ugur , Korkmaz Ali Fuat , Demirelli Selami
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Although it is affected at an early stage, there is a lack of studies investigating right ventricular (RV) function in patients with mitral stenosis (MS). We aimed to investigate the correlation between conventional echocardiographic variables and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), used as an indicator of RV dysfunction.

Methods

We enrolled 59 consecutive patients with MS and assigned them in group 1 if TAPSE ≤16, or group 2 if: TAPSE >16.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 42.2 ± 8 years, and 74.6% were females. In univariate analysis, maximal mitral valve gradient, mean mitral valve gradient, systolic pulmonary arterial pressure, RV strain, and RV strain rates were associated with RV dysfunction. In multivariate analysis, both strain variables were found to be independent predictors of RV dysfunction. Kaplan Maier survival analysis showed that patients with lower RV strain had more rehospitalization rate during the one‐year follow‐up period.

Conclusions

RV dysfunction is common in patients with MS and is associated with higher rehospitalization rate and morbidity. Evaluation of RV strain and strain rate for early detection of RV dysfunction and prediction of rehospitalization may be an appropriate approach in mitral stenosis.
IFNγ receptor down-regulation facilitates Legionella survival in alveolar macrophages
Authors: Yang Chao , McDermot Daniel S. , Pasricha Shivani , Brown Andrew S. , Bedoui Sammy , Lenz Laurel L. , van Driel Ian R. , Hartland Elizabeth L.
Published: December 2019

Legionella pneumophila is an opportunistic human pathogen and causative agent of the acute pneumonia known as Legionnaire's disease. Upon inhalation, the bacteria replicate in alveolar macrophages (AM), within an intracellular vacuole termed the Legionella-containing vacuole. We recently found that, in vivo, IFNγ was required for optimal clearance of intracellular L. pneumophila by monocyte-derived cells (MC), but the cytokine did not appear to influence clearance by AM. Here, we report that during L. pneumophila lung infection, expression of the IFNγ receptor subunit 1 (IFNGR1) is down-regulated in AM and neutrophils, but not MC, offering a possible explanation for why AM are unable to effectively restrict L. pneumophila replication in vivo. To test this, we used mice that constitutively express IFNGR1 in AM and found that prevention of IFNGR1 down-regulation enhanced the ability of AM to restrict L. pneumophila intracellular replication. IFNGR1 down-regulation was independent of the type IV Dot/Icm secretion system of L. pneumophila indicating that bacterial effector proteins were not involved. In contrast to previous work, we found that signaling via type I IFN receptors was not required for IFNGR1 down-regulation in macrophages but rather that MyD88- or Trif- mediated NF-κB activation was required. This work has uncovered an alternative signaling pathway responsible for IFNGR1 down-regulation in macrophages during bacterial infection.
Developing a tool to measure the organizational resilience of Tanzania's water supply systems
Authors: Sweya Lukuba N. , Wilkinson Suzanne , Kassenga Gabriel , Mayunga Joseph
Published: December 2019

Confronted with serious environmental challenges, water supply organizations in Tanzania struggle to prioritize and allocate resources to building resilience to floods so that they can provide uninterrupted service or resume services after a crisis in a timely manner. A study of the key indicators and principles of organizational resilience, combined with input from a panel of water industry experts, led to the development of a tool to gauge organizational resilience that was tested with data from a Tanzanian water authority. Awareness of environmental issues, having an emergency response plan in place, providing staff and the public with opportunities to learn more about building resiliency, clear and ongoing communications, and strong leadership emerged as the most important indicators for measuring the organizational resilience of water supply systems. Encompassing change readiness, leadership and culture, legal frameworks and institutional setup, and networks and relationships, the assessment tool that was developed can guide water authority managers worldwide in developing processes to ensure uninterrupted service to their communities.