bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-regulatory circuits linking inflammation, high-fat diet, and the circadian clock
Authors: Gachon Frédéric , Yeung Jake , Naef Felix
Published: November 2018

Mammalian physiology resonates with the daily changes in the external environment, allowing processes such as rest–activity cycles, metabolism, and body temperature to synchronize with daily changes in the surroundings. Studies have identified the molecular underpinnings of robust oscillations in gene expression occurring over the 24-h day, but how acute or chronic perturbations modulate gene expression rhythms, physiology, and behavior is still relatively unknown. In this issue of Genes & Development, Hong and colleagues (pp. 1367–1379) studied how acute and chronic inflammation interacts with the circadian clock. They found that NF-κB signaling can modify chromatin states and modulate expression of genes in the core clock network as well as circadian locomotor behavior. Interestingly, a high-fat diet (HFD) fed to mice also triggers this inflammation pathway, suggesting that cross-regulatory circuits link inflammation, HFD, and the circadian clock.
The Emergence of the TardigradeHypsibius exemplarisas a Model System
Authors: Goldstein Bob
Published: November 2018

The success of scientists in revealing biological mechanisms has depended in large part on choosing tractable model systems. In 1997, molecular phylogenetics revealed that two of biology's most tractable models—Caenorhabditis elegansandDrosophila—are much more closely related to each other than had been thought previously. I began to explore whether any of the little-studied members of this branch of the tree of life might serve as a new model for comparative biology that could make use of the rich and ongoing sources of information flowing fromC. elegansandDrosophilaresearch. Tardigrades, also known as water bears, make up a phylum of microscopic animals. The tardigradeHypsibius exemplaris(recently disambiguated from a closely related species,Hypsibius dujardini) can be maintained in laboratories and has a generation time of <2 wk at room temperature. Stocks of animals can be stored frozen and revived. The animals and their embryos are optically clear, and embryos are laid in groups, with each synchronous clutch of embryos laid in a clear molt. We have developed techniques for laboratory study of this system, including methods for microinjection of animals, immunolocalization, in situ hybridization, RNA interference, transcriptomics, and methods for identifying proteins that mediate tolerance to extreme environments. Here, I review the development of this animal as an emerging model system, as well as recent molecular studies aimed at understanding the evolution of developmental mechanisms that underpin the evolution of animal form and at understanding how biological materials can survive extreme environments.
Desiccation of Hypsibius exemplaris
Authors: Boothby Thomas C.
Published: November 2018

Many species of tardigrades can survive severe water loss, but different species tolerate different desiccation conditions. Hypsibius exemplaris is able to survive desiccation after an initial period of slow drying, as described here. This protocol will likely work for other tardigrade species as well. Drying of tardigrades can be used for probing the mechanistic underpinnings of desiccation tolerance, as well as for practical purposes such as shipping and long-term storage of the animals.
Improving equality in healthcare for people with learning disabilities: a joint working approach between housing and hospital
Authors: Owen Alice
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The current project aims to draft an NHS and care provider joint working protocol for patients with learning disabilities as they transition between care and NHS hospital services. The purpose of this paper is to present the rationale behind a joint working protocol and the progress of the project to date.

Design/methodology/approach

Working in partnership, Basildon University Hospital and Estuary Housing Association have sought to investigate the experiences in hospital of the people they support with learning disabilities. This has involved ongoing work examining patient pathways from both a hospital and care provider perspective as well as engaging in discussions with key stakeholders. It is hoped that these insights will feed into recommendations to form the joint working protocol.

Findings

Current findings are limited as this paper presents an interim report on an ongoing project. Initial findings around positive joint working practices are detailed. An emerging recommendation around improved information sharing between health and care provider in acute hospital settings is also discussed.

Originality/value

It is hoped that the project will improve experiences of people with learning disabilities in hospital locally, while inspiring other hospitals and care providers to adopt a joint working approach at a wider level.
Are benefits of others important? The interaction effect of moral identity and construal level on green consumption
Authors: Wu Bo , Li Dongjin , Zhang Chubing
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the interaction effect of moral identity and construal level on consumer green consumption and the mediating role of pro-environmental self-accountability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examined the hypotheses in two experiment studies. In study 1, the authors measured participants’ chronic individual difference of moral identity and primed construal level. In study 2, the authors primed moral identity and measured chronic individual difference of construal level. The authors also measured pro-environmental self-accountability in these two studies.

Findings

The results reveal that construal level moderates the relationship between moral identity and consumer green consumption, specifically, when consumers are induced a high construal level, moral identity has no effect on consumer green consumption, while when consumers are induced a low construal level, moral identity has a positive effect on consumer green consumption; the interaction of moral identity and construal level on green consumption is mediated by pro-environmental self-accountability.

Research limitations/implications

This research enriches the literature on how to improve consumer green consumption, and thus has some managerial and public policy implications. But the authors only chose students as participants and the dependent measures are also limited. Future research can choose other type of sample and other dependent measures to test the generalization of the conclusion.

Originality/value

Prior literature of green consumption lacks research on mediation mechanism. Due to prior literature gaps, the authors integrate social-cognitive perspective moral identity theory, especially the in-group circle expansion of moral identity, and construal level theory to investigate the moderating effect of construal level on the relationship between moral identity and green consumption and the mediation effect of pro-environmental self-accountability.
Interorganizational network on top management team – entry mode choice relationship
Authors: Mukherjee Subhasree , Dhayanithy Deepak
Published: November 2018

Purpose

By applying upper echelons perspective to the choice of full or shared control entry modes, this study aims to explore the moderating effect of interorganizational network on the top management team (TMT) characteristics and entry mode choice relationship. Existing studies on TMT’s demographic characters’ influence on entry mode choice remains inconclusive. The implicit assumption in extant literature is that firms share similar network structural advantages. This study integrates the largely ignored, network structural concept with entry mode to show how firm-level decisions are the outcome of interaction between internal and external environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The interorganizational network is modeled using board interlock data. The moderating effect of network is modeled on network size, centrality of the firms and density of ties, considering tenure and international experience of the upper echelons. The hypotheses are tested based on a sample of 83 publicly listed Indian firms from 2012 to 2015.

Findings

The findings indicate that despite a high international experienced TMT’s preference of full control entry mode, the high central position of the firm can influence the decision against full control entry modes. However, the choice of full control entry mode is also enhanced by the density of firm’s network. Similar evidence is also observed with tenure variable as well where the moderating variables showed a trend toward influencing the entry mode choices.

Originality/value

Thus, this study attempted to reconcile the inconsistencies prevalent in the relationship between TMT variables and choice of entry mode by introducing the contextual factor of interorganizational networks.
Investor sentiment antecedents
Authors: Dasgupta Ranjan , Singh Rashmi
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The determinants of investor sentiment based on stock market proxies are found in numbers in empirical studies. However, investor sentiment antecedents developed from primary survey measures by constructing an investor sentiment index (ISI) are not done till date. The purpose of this paper is to fill this research gap by first developing an ISI for the Indian retail investors and then examining the investor-specific, stock market-specific, macroeconomic and policy-specific factors’ individual impact on the investor sentiment.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors develop the ISI by using the mean scores of six statements as formulated based on popular direct investor sentiment surveys undertaken throughout the world. Then, the authors employ the structural equation modeling approach on the responses of 576 respondents on 40 statements (representing the index and four study hypotheses) collected in 2016 across the country.

Findings

The results show that investor- and stock market-specific factors are the major antecedents of investor sentiment for these investors. However, interestingly macroeconomic fundamentals and policy-specific factors have no role to play in driving their sentiment to invest in the stock market.

Practical implications

The major implication of the results is that the Indian retail investors are showing a mixed approach of Bayesian and behavioral finance decision making. So, these implications can guide the investment consultants, regulators, other stakeholders in markets and overwhelmingly the retail investors to introspect their investment decision making across time horizons.

Originality/value

The formulation of ISI in an emerging market context and thereafter examining possible antecedents to influence retail investors in their investment decision making are not done till date. So, the study is unique in its research issue and findings and will have significant implication for the retail investors at least in emerging market contexts.
Inhibition of cancer stem cells promoted by Pimozide
Authors: Gonçalves Jussara Maria , Silva Carolina Amália Barcellos , Rivero Elena Riet Correa , Cordeiro Mabel Mariela Rodríguez
Published: November 2018

Over the past years, studies have described that users of antipsychotics are less likely to develop cancer than the population in general due to cytotoxic properties of this class of drugs on cancer cells. For this reason, Pimozide has been widely studied as a potential anticancer treatment, and satisfactory results in melanoma, central nervous system tumours, osteosarcoma, neuroblastoma, myeloproliferative neoplasms, breast, lung, prostate, ovarian, colorectal, pancreatic, and hepatocellular carcinoma have been showed. Moreover, advantages as clinical use approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), high clinical safety, low side effects, and reasonable price have stimulated the treatment with Pimozide instead of other agents. The action mechanism remains unclear, but three vias associated to cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis show that Pimozide: (a) blocks CSC features, as epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), through inhibition of Wnt‐β/catenin signalling; (b) acts as an inhibitor of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT‐3 and 5), pathway which is activated and up‐regulated in CSCs; (c) inhibits ubiquitine specific protease (USP1) and WD repeat‐containing protein 48 (WDR48), that are proteins responsible to inhibit the differentiation and to maintain the cell in an undifferentiated state. Based on this perspective, the aim of this manuscript is to review the antineoplastic role of Pimozide during tumorigenesis and its potential to revert the process of undifferentiation and proliferation of CSC through different vias.
Turning Innovation into Evidence‐based Policies: Lessons Learned from Free Commune Experiments
Authors: Askim Jostein , Hjelmar Ulf , Pedersen Lene Holm
Published: November 2018

There is a great need for innovation in the public sector and for improved understanding of how innovation can be turned into evidence‐based public policy. This article discusses potential contributions from 30 years of experience in the Nordic countries with a reform programme called ‘Free Commune Experiments’ (FCEs). Here, local authorities are granted waivers from legislation to experiment with normally ‘illegal’ practices. The article asks if the FCEs have managed to synthesise local governments’ potential to generate novel practices with central government’s potential to evaluate, verify and disseminate effective innovations. The conclusion is that the FCEs have been effective generators of policy ideas, but that limited knowledge has been produced about the effects of innovative practices and whether or not new policies should be replicated beyond ‘test sites’. With some changes, it is argued that the programme could nonetheless be a strategy worth emulating beyond the Nordic countries.
A multisystem composite biomarker as a preliminary diagnostic test in bipolar disorder
Authors: Munkholm K. , Vinberg M. , Pedersen B. K. , Poulsen H. E. , Ekstrøm C. T. , Kessing L. V.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Diagnosis and management of bipolar disorder (BD) are limited by the absence of available laboratory tests. We aimed to combine data from different molecular levels and tissues into a composite diagnostic and state biomarker.

Methods

Expression levels of 19 candidate genes in peripheral blood, plasma levels of BDNF, NT‐3, IL‐6 and IL‐18, leukocyte counts, and urinary markers of oxidative damage to DNA and RNA were measured in 37 adult rapid‐cycling patients with BD in different affective states during a 6‐ to 12‐month period and in 40 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy individuals in a longitudinal, repeated measures design comprising a total of 211 samples. A composite biomarker was constructed using data‐driven variable selection.

Results

The composite biomarker discriminated between patients with BD and healthy control individuals with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.83 and a sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 71% corresponding with a moderately accurate test. Discrimination between manic and depressive states had a moderate accuracy, with an AUC of 0.82 and a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 40%.

Conclusion

Combining individual biomarkers across tissues and molecular systems could be a promising avenue for research in biomarker models in BD.
Click chemistry‐based synthesis and cytotoxic activity evaluation of 4α‐triazole acetate podophyllotoxin derivatives
Authors: Hou Wei , Zhang Guanjun , Luo Zhi , Su Lin , Xu Hongtao
Published: November 2018

A series of novel 4α‐triazole acetate podophyllotoxin derivatives were synthesized via click chemistry. In vitro cytotoxic activity evaluation showed that most of the derivatives exhibited potent inhibitory activities against the tested cancer cell lines with low nanomolar IC50 values. Further studies demonstrated that compound 31 exhibited broad‐spectrum cytotoxic activities, effectively overcame drug‐resistance, and showed relatively weak cytotoxicity on non‐cancer cells. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicated that 31 might have action on microtubule, cause cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase, and induce apoptosis in human PC‐3 cancer cells.
Blocking antibodies induced by peanut oral and sublingual immunotherapy suppress basophil activation and are associated with sustained unresponsiveness
Authors: Orgel Kelly , Burk Caitlin , Smeekens Johanna , Suber Jada , Hardy Lakeya , Guo Rishu , Burks A. Wesley , Kulis Michael
Published: November 2018

Background

Oral and sublingual immunotherapies for peanut allergy have demonstrated efficacy in small clinical trials; however, mechanisms and biomarkers correlating with clinical outcomes remain elusive. Previous studies have demonstrated a role for IgG in post‐OIT plasma in the suppression of IgE‐mediated mast cell reactions.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterize the role that peanut oral and sublingual immunotherapy‐induced plasma factors play in the inhibition of ex vivo basophil activation and whether inhibitory activity is associated with clinical outcomes.

Methods

Plasma samples from subjects on placebo, peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) or peanut sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), and IgG‐depleted plasma or the IgG fraction were incubated with sensitized basophils, and the inhibition of basophil activation following stimulation with peanut extract was measured. Basophil inhibition results were compared between the two routes of immunotherapy, time on treatment and clinical outcomes.

Results

Plasma from subjects after 12 months of active peanut OIT, but not placebo, inhibits basophil activation ex vivo. Depletion of IgG abrogated the blocking effect of OIT plasma, while the IgG fraction substantially blocked basophil activation. Basophils are inhibited to a similar extent by undiluted OIT and SLIT plasma; however, diluted OIT plasma from the time of desensitization challenge inhibited basophils more than diluted SLIT plasma from time of desensitization challenge. Plasma from subjects who experienced sustained unresponsiveness following OIT inhibited basophils to a greater extent than plasma from subjects who were desensitized, but this was not true for SLIT.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Peanut immunotherapy induces IgG‐dependent functional changes in plasma that are associated with OIT but not SLIT clinical outcomes. Understanding the mechanisms of peanut OIT and SLIT may help derive informative biomarkers.
Ascorbic acid supplementation improves postprandial glycaemic control and blood pressure in individuals with type 2 diabetes: Findings of a randomized cross‐over trial
Authors: Mason Shaun A. , Rasmussen Bodil , van Loon Luc J.C. , Salmon Jo , Wadley Glenn D.
Published: November 2018

Aim

The primary aim of this study was to investigate whether ascorbic acid (AA) supplementation improves postprandial glucose responses under free‐living conditions in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A secondary aim was to investigate the effect of AA supplementation on blood pressure.

Materials and methods

A total of 31 individuals with type 2 diabetes (26 males and 5 females; aged 61.8 ± 6.8 years; duration of diabetes, 5.6 ± 4.6 years; HbA1c, 7.6% ± 0.7% [mean ± SD]) were enrolled in a randomized cross‐over study involving 4 months of supplementation with oral AA (2 × 500 mg/d) or placebo. Participants wore continuous glucose monitors for 48 hours and consumed standardized meals pre‐ and post‐supplementation. Measurements included postprandial glucose incremental areas under the curve (iAUC), duration of day in hyper‐ and hypo‐glycaemia status, average 24‐hour and daily postprandial glucose concentrations, HbA1c, insulin, blood pressure (BP) and oxidative stress (F2‐isoprostanes).

Results

Following AA supplementation, significant decreases were observed in daily postprandial glucose iAUC (−36%), in duration of day with hyperglycaemia (−2.8 h/d) and postprandial hyperglycaemia (−1.7 h/d), in average 24‐hour glucose (−0.8 mmol/L) and daily postprandial glucose (−1.1 mmol/L) concentrations, in systolic (−7 mm Hg) and diastolic (−5 mm Hg) blood pressures and in a specific fraction of free plasma F2‐isoprostanes (−47 pg/mL) as compared to placebo.

Conclusions

Individuals with type 2 diabetes experienced improved postprandial and 24‐hour glycaemia and decreased BP after 4 months of AA supplementation as compared to placebo. These findings offer evidence for the proposed use of AA as an adjunct therapy to improve glycaemic and BP control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Comparison of student’s perceptions between 3D printed models versus series models in paediatric dentistry hands‐on session
Authors: Marty Mathieu , Broutin Alice , Vergnes Jean‐Noel , Vaysse Frédéric
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Dental education emphasises the acquisition of technical skills. Recent advances in 3D printing technologies have enabled the emergence of new educational tools usable in hands‐on work sessions. The possibility to print 3D models from CT scans of patients is now available to dental practitioners. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a 3D printed model for paediatric dentistry training and compare it to the reference model used in our faculty.

Materials and Method

3D models were obtained by modifying and printing the CT scan of a young patient using the Voco® Solflex 350 3D® printer and Voco® V‐print resin. Thirty‐four students were asked to perform a pulpotomy and preparation for a stainless steel paediatric crown on tooth 85 on both the 3D printed model and the industrial model (Frasaco®), and then to answer a questionnaire. The data were analysed using R software.

Result

Both models obtained high scores. The learning potential and its applicability to clinical practice showed no statistically significant difference. Although the colour and the simulation of the proximal area disturbed the students (P = 0.009), the 3D models were seen as a good idea (P = 0.012). When it came to model design, the students appreciated the simulation of caries on 3D models (P = 0.0001) and considered the use 3D of models as a more realistic experience (P = 0.017).

Discussion

Although this study has some limitations (number of participants, choice of the models to be compared), it constitutes the first attempt to compare students’ perception of 3D and series models. It shows that 3D technology makes it possible to obtain models of similar quality while offering a more realistic experience.

Conclusion

There are still many ways in which these models could be improved. For example, modifying the quality of resins could improve the milling sensation, and the design could be improved to achieve better contact points. Nevertheless, these 3D models offer the possibility to give the patient a more central place in the education of future practitioners.
Childhood social, emotional, and behavioural problems and their association with behaviour in the dental setting
Authors: Cademartori Mariana G. , Corrêa Marcos B. , Silva Ricardo A. , Goettems Marília L.
Published: November 2018

Background

Mental disorders are among the main causes of global disability in children, with negative impacts on their quality of life. It is possible that mental disorders could be associated with how children react in the dental setting.

Aim

To test the association between children's psychological attributes and behaviour presented during dental care.

Design

A questionnaire was given to mothers of children attending a paediatric dental clinic. Psychological attributes were evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. For analysis, the Internalizing and Externalizing problems and the Prosocial behaviour subscales were considered. Children's behaviour was assessed using the Frankl Scale. For analysis, Poisson regression models were employed. A significant level of P ≤ 0.05 was adopted.

Results

Overall, 128 children aged between four and 12 years were included. Total difficulties (PR 5.36; 95%CI 2.2‐12.9), Internalizing problems (PR 4.04; 95%CI 1.6‐10.0), and externalizing problems (PR 3.36; 1.5‐7.7) were associated with uncooperative behaviour. In relation to the strength domain, the Prosocial behaviour subscale (PR 1.21; 95%CI 0.6‐2.6) was not associated with child behaviour.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that children aged between four and 12 years with internalizing and externalizing problems tend to have a higher prevalence of negative behaviour during dental treatment.
It’s security, stupid! Voters’ perceptions of immigrants as a security risk predicted support for Donald Trump in the 2016 US presidential election
Authors: Wright Joshua D. , Esses Victoria M.
Published: November 2018

We analyzed two datasets to determine the predictive validity of four explanations of support for Donald Trump during the 2016 US presidential election: (a) security concerns regarding immigrants, (b) economic concerns regarding immigrants, (c) cultural concerns regarding immigrants, and (d) social dominance orientation. Results of a two‐phase study (N = 354) suggested that perceiving immigrants as a security concern was predictive of increased support for and greater odds of voting for Donald Trump three weeks later. Perceiving immigrants as an economic threat predicted odds of voting for Donald Trump, but only among liberals and there was no evidence of cultural concern or social dominance orientation (SDO) predicting support for Donald Trump or odds of voting for Trump. A follow‐up analysis of the cross‐sectional ANES survey corroborated that security concerns were an important correlate of voting for Trump, but also that SDO was correlated with having previously voted for Donald Trump. While our two‐phase study has the benefit of prediction, the cross‐sectional ANES data does not—“predictors” in these data were collected up to two months post‐election.
LncRNA GAS6‐AS2 promotes bladder cancer proliferation and metastasis via GAS6‐AS2/miR‐298/CDK9 axis
Authors: Rui Xin , Wang Li , Pan Huafeng , Gu Tingting , Shao Siliang , Leng Jiangyong
Published: November 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been proved to play important roles in carcinogenesis and development of numerous cancers, but their biological functions in bladder cancer remain largely unknown. In this study, a novel lncRNA termed GAS6‐AS2 were primary identified, and its roles as well as mechanisms in regulating proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer cells were investigated. Clinically, GAS6‐AS2 was significantly up‐regulated in bladder cancer tissues and positively correlated with tumour stages and poor prognosis. Moreover, expression of GAS6‐AS2 was also increased in bladder cancer cells compared with normal bladder cells. Further investigating the roles of GAS6‐AS2, we found GAS6‐AS2 regulated proliferation and proliferative activity of bladder cancer cells via inducing G1 phase arrest. What's more, we found that GAS6‐AS2 contributed to metastatic abilities of cells. In mechanism, GAS6‐AS2 could function as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) via direct sponging miR‐298, which further regulating the expression of CDK9. Finally, we also proved that GAS6‐AS2 knockdown suppressed tumour growth and metastasis in vivo. In conclusion, our study proved that GAS6‐AS2 could function as a ceRNA and promote the proliferation and metastasis of bladder cancer cells, which provided a novel prognostic marker for bladder cancer patients in clinic.
Phorbol esters induce PLVAP expression via VEGF and additional secreted molecules in MEK1‐dependent and p38, JNK and PI3K/Akt‐independent manner
Authors: Hamilton B. JoNell , Tse Dan , Stan Radu V.
Published: November 2018

Endothelial diaphragms are subcellular structures critical for mammalian survival with poorly understood biogenesis. Plasmalemma vesicle associated protein (PLVAP) is the only known diaphragm component and is necessary for diaphragm formation. Very little is known about PLVAP regulation. Phorbol esters (PMA) are known to induce de novo PLVAP expression and diaphragm formation. We show that this induction relies on the de novo production of soluble factors that will act in an autocrine manner to induce PLVAP transcription and protein expression. We identified vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A) signalling through VEGFR2 as a necessary but not sufficient downstream event as VEGF‐A inhibition with antibodies and siRNA or pharmacological inhibition of VEGFR2 only partially inhibit PLVAP upregulation. In terms of downstream pathways, inhibition of MEK1/Erk1/2 MAP kinase blocked PLVAP upregulation, whereas inhibition of p38 and JNK MAP kinases or PI3K and Akt had no effect on PMA‐induced PLVAP expression. In conclusion, we show that VEGF‐A along with other secreted proteins act synergistically to up‐regulate PLVAP in MEK1/Erk1/2 dependent manner, bringing us one step further into understanding the genesis of the essential structures that are endothelial diaphragms.
Mycobiota and chromatographic analyses of aflatoxin contamination ofAspergillusspecies isolated from poultry feed
Authors: Saleem Abdel‐Rahman , Al‐Johani Masad
Published: November 2018

Fifty poultry feed samples were collected from five regions (Hail, Jeddah, Makkah, Qassim and Al‐Madinah) in Saudi Arabia, 10 samples from each region. Thirty‐two fungal species belong to 16 genera were isolated on both Dextrose Czapeks and Pototo dextrose agar media at 28 °C using two isolation methods (dilution‐plate and baiting methods). The most common species wereAspergillus flavus,Aspergillusniger,Aspergillus tamarii,Aspergillus terreus,Aspergillusversicolor,Emericella nidulans,Fusarium oxysporum,Mucor racemosus,Neurospora crassa,Paecilomyces variotii,Penicillium chrysogenum, andRhizopus stolonifer. Qualitative determination of aflatoxins in 24 isolates ofA. flavusandAspergillus parasitcuswere screened using ammonium hydroxide test. Fourteen isolates (58.3% of total isolates) exhibited positive reaction when exposed to ammonium hydroxide vapor. However, 10 isolates (41.7%) showed negative response for their abilities to produce aflatoxins. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of cultural extracts exhibited variable levels of aflatoxins. The concentration of aflatoxin B was 18.0–204.8 ng/ml. However, aflatoxin G was 21.7–249.3 ng/ml. Culture extracts ofA. flavusandA. parasiticuswere also analyzed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) for aflatoxins detection. Fifteen isolates (62.5%) exhibited distinct spots for aflatoxins on the TLC plate. Aflatoxin B was predominant. TheRfvalues of B1, B2, G1, and G2were 0.78, 0.62, 0.46, and 0.38, respectively.

Practical applications

Study of fungal content of poultry feed would contribute to know the aflatoxins producing fungi and avoid the hazard effect of these fungi by storing of feed in unsuitable conditions for germination and metabolites of these fungi. The ability of Aspergillus fungi to produce aflatoxins and concentration of aflatoxins in the culture extracts of these fungi give evidence for how much doses of aflatoxins expose to poultry industry and its negative impact on poultry production and human health.
Effect of Denture Cleansers on Cobalt‐Chromium Alloy Surface: A Simulated Period of 5 Years’ Use
Authors: Curylofo Patrícia Almeida , Raile Priscilla Neves , Vasconcellos Glenda Lara Lopes , Macedo Ana Paula , Pagnano Valéria Oliveira
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To compare the effect of solutions of effervescent tablets (ET), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and experimental solutions of Ricinus communis on the surface of cobalt‐chromium (Co‐Cr) alloys.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐five specimens of Co‐Cr were prepared by the lost‐wax casting method using circular patterns (∅12 × 3 mm). The specimens were randomly divided into 5 groups: deionized water (control); 2% R. communis; 10% R. communis; ET, and CPC. The surface roughness of specimens (n = 10) was evaluated before immersion (baseline), and at simulated times of ½, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, by laser confocal microscope (Sa, μm) and profilometer (Ra, μm). The surface topography and chemical composition (n = 1) was qualitatively analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (EDS). Data were subjected to Kruskal–Wallis followed by Dunn tests, and Friedman followed by Wilcoxon tests (α = 0.05).

Results

For Sa, there was no difference for the solution factor. For the time factor a significant difference was found with 2% R. communis solution among baseline and ½, 2, 3, and 5 years (p < 0.001) and with 10% R. communis solution between 1 and 2 years (p = 0.007), with decreasing roughness over time. For Ra, cetylpyridinium chloride exhibited less roughness than 10% R. communis solution in ½ (p = 0.048) and 5 years (p = 0.013). In the SEM and EDS analysis the solutions did not present deleterious effects or changes in the chemical composition on the surfaces.

Conclusions

Although a significant difference was found for the roughness, the results, below 0.2 μm, are clinically acceptable. Thus, all solutions can be used safely in removable partial denture cleaning for a period of 5 years.
Repeatability and effect of blinding of fructose breath tests in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Wilder‐Smith Clive H. , Olesen Søren S. , Materna Andrea , Drewes Asbjørn M.
Published: November 2018

Background

Breath tests are used as measures of sugar intolerance or malabsorption in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID), although the repeatability or anticipatory bias have not been adequately studied. We examined the repeatability and anticipatory bias during fructose breath testing using a nocebo‐controlled, randomized, cross‐over, and double‐blind study design.

Methods

Gastrointestinal symptoms and breath concentrations of hydrogen and methane were documented during breath tests with fructose (given open twice and blinded once), water (blind neutral nocebo) and a cyclamate/saccharine sweetener (blind sweet nocebo) on 5 days in patients with FGID. Repeatability of fructose breath tests (16 patients) and differences between open and blinded substrate groups (31 patients) was assessed using thresholds for intolerance and malabsorption, and areas‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) of symptoms and breath gas concentrations.

Key Results

Fructose breath tests showed moderate repeatability for intolerance status (absolute agreement 87%, kappa 0.72), but limited repeatability for malabsorber status (absolute agreement 53%, kappa 0.05). Repeatability of AUCs of GI symptoms, hydrogen and methane breath concentrations was moderate (intraclass correlation coefficients 0.70, 0.57, and 0.57, respectively). There were no significant differences between open and blinded fructose breath tests in intolerance or malabsorber status, or in AUCs of GI symptoms, hydrogen and methane concentrations.

Conclusions & Inferences

Fructose breath tests showed moderate repeatability for intolerance status and for AUCs of symptoms and gas concentrations, lying within the range of accepted gastrointestinal sensory and transit tests. Repeatability for malabsorption status was inadequate and requires revisiting. The fructose breath test can be used unblinded in FGID.
Utility of thrombophilia screening in pediatric renal transplant recipients
Authors: Bock Margret E. , Bobrowski Amy E. , Bhat Rukhmi
Published: November 2018

Thrombosis after kidney transplantation may result in catastrophic outcomes, including graft loss. Thrombophilia has been implicated in post‐transplant thrombosis; data, however, are inconclusive on the impact of acquired and inherited thrombophilia and resultant thrombosis in renal graft recipients. We aimed to evaluate whether identifying children with thrombophilia during the pretransplant evaluation predicted post‐transplant outcomes. We reviewed 100 kidney transplants performed in 100 children, aged 1‐18 years, in a single‐center retrospective study. Routine pretransplant comprehensive thrombophilia evaluation was completed. Thrombophilia was demonstrated in 36% patients (N = 36). TEs occurred in 11 patients before kidney transplant. Low PS and antithrombin were found in 9/86 (10.5%) and 2/89 (2.2%) children, respectively. Heterozygosity for FLV and PGM were found in 5/81 (6.2%) and 1/93(1.1%) children, respectively. A post‐transplant thrombotic event occurred in 10 children (10%); six involved the renal transplant. The association between a history of a pretransplant thrombotic event and post‐operative renal graft thrombosis approached, but did not reach significance (P = 0.071). There was no association between preoperative screening abnormalities and post‐operative TEs. Graft loss due to a thrombotic event occurred in two patients; none had underlying thrombophilia. Our data suggest that the utility of universal, comprehensive preoperative thrombophilia testing is not beneficial in determining risk of post‐operative graft thrombosis. Thrombophilia testing may be considered in a select population with a history of pretransplant thrombotic event.
A novel HLA class I allele, HLA‐B*13:02:21, identified by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Gao Xiang‐Yang , Chi Xiao‐Yun , Bin Hu , Feng Zhi‐Hui
Published: November 2018

HLA‐B*13:02:21 has one nucleotide substitution, C > T(GAC to GAT) compared with B*13:02:01.
A rationale for universal tranexamic acid in major joint arthroplasty: overall efficacy and impact of risk factors for transfusion
Authors: Pavenski Katerina , Ward Sarah E. , Hare Gregory M.T. , Freedman John , Pulendrarajah Robisa , Pirani Razak A. , Sheppard Nicholas , Vance Colm , White Alexander , Lo Nick , Waddell James P. , Ho Alex , Schemitsch Emil H. , Kataoka Mark , Bogoch Earl R. , Saini Kiran , David Mazer C. , Baker James E.
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) therapy is effective in reducing postoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in total joint arthroplasty (TJA), yet uncertainty persists regarding comparative efficacy and safety among specific patient subgroups. We assessed the impact of a universal TXA protocol on RBC transfusion, postoperative hemoglobin (Hb), and adverse outcomes to determine whether TXA is safe and effective in TJA, both overall and in clinically relevant subgroups.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective observational study was performed on patients undergoing TJA at our institution spanning 1 year before and after the implementation of a universal protocol to administer intravenous (IV) TXA. The primary outcome was percentage of patients transfused, and secondary outcomes were perioperative Hb and occurrence of adverse events (death, myocardial infarction, stroke, seizure, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and acute kidney injury ). Outcomes were compared in pre‐ and post‐protocol groups with χ2 analysis. Logistic regression compared risk of transfusion in pre‐ and post‐protocol subgroups of patients with differing risk for transfusion (anemia, body mass index [BMI], and sex).

RESULTS

No differences were found in baseline patient characteristics across pre‐ and post‐protocol groups (n = 1084 and 912, respectively). TXA use increased from 32.3% to 92.2% while transfusion rates decreased from 10.3% to 4.8% (p < 0.001). Postoperative Day 3 Hb increased from 95.8 to 101.4 g/L (p < 0.001). Logistic regression demonstrated reduced transfusion in post‐protocol subgroups regardless of sex, anemia, or BMI (p < 0.001). No increase in adverse events was observed (p = 0.8451).

CONCLUSIONS

Universal TXA was associated with a reduction of RBC transfusion, overall and in clinically relevant subgroups, strengthening the rationale for universal therapy.
Numerical Simulation of the Impact of Natural Fracture on Fluid Composition Variation Through a Porous Medium
Authors: Papi Ali , Mohebbi Ali , Ehsan Eshraghi S.
Published: November 2018

In order to lessen the computational time in fractured oil reservoir simulations, all fractures are usually assumed to be as one equivalent fracture at the center or around the model. This, specially, has applications in industrial engineering software, where this assumption applies. In this study, using two general contradictory examples, it is shown that ignoring a fracture network and assuming an equivalent single-fracture has no logical justification and results in a considerable error. The effect of fracture aperture on composition distribution of a binary and a ternary mixture was also investigated. These mixtures were C1 (methane)/n-C4 (normal-butane) and C1 (methane)/C2 (ethane)/n-C4 (normal-butane), which were under diffusion and natural convection. Governing equations were numerically solved using matlab. One of the main relevant applications of this study is where permeability and temperature gradient are the key difference between reservoirs. Compositional distribution from this study could be used to estimate initial oil in place. Using this study, one can find the optimum permeability, namely the permeability at which the maximum species separation happens, and the threshold permeability (or fracture aperture), after which the convection imposes its effect on composition distribution. It is found that the threshold permeability is not constant from reservoir to reservoir. Also, one can find that full mixing happens in the model, namely heavy and light densities of top and bottom mix up together in the model. Furthermore, after maximum separation point, convection causes unification of components.
Orthogonal Collocation Method for Solving the Diffusivity Equation: Application on Dual Porosity Reservoirs With Constant Pressure Outer Boundary
Authors: Nategh Mahshid , Vaferi Behzad , Riazi Masoud
Published: November 2018

Fluid flow inside heterogeneous structure of dual porosity reservoirs is presented by two coupled partial differential equations (PDE). Finding an analytical solution for the diffusivity equations is tedious or even impossible in some circumstances due to the heterogeneity of dual porosity reservoirs. Therefore, in this study, orthogonal collocation method (OCM) is proposed for solving the governing equations in dual porosity reservoirs with constant pressure outer boundary. Since no analytical solution has been proposed for this system, validation is carried out by comparing the OCM-obtained results for “dual porosity reservoirs with circular no-flow outer boundary” with both exact analytical solution and real field data. Sensitivity analyses reveal that the OCM with 13 collocation points is a good candidate for prediction of pressure transient response (PTR) in dual porosity reservoirs. OCM predicts the PTR of a real field draw-down test with an absolute average relative deviation (AARD) of 0.9%. Moreover, OCM shows a good agreement with the analytical solution obtained by Laplace transform (AARD = 0.16%). It is worth noting that OCM requires a smaller computational effort. Thereafter, PTR of dual porosity reservoirs with a constant production rate in the wellbore and constant pressure outer boundary is simulated by OCM for wide ranges of operating conditions. Accuracy of OCM and its low required computational time justifies that this approximate method can be considered as a practical candidate for pressure transient analysis in dual porosity reservoirs.
Performance Analysis and Optimization of Fresnel Lens Concentrated Solar Water Heater
Authors: Soni Vinod Kumar , Shrivastava R. L. , Untawale S. P. , Shrivastava Kshitij
Published: November 2018

Concentrated solar power (CSP) is a mature and efficient technology to cater the large-scale demand of hot water. Conventional reflectors/mirrors in CSP share 50% of total system cost. High installation as well as O&M cost is the major concern in reflector-based CSP. Apart from the above, manufacturing defects and adverse service environment cause premature degradation of reflectors and substantial drop in efficiency and service life. Performance analysis of an innovative optically concentrated solar water heater (OCSWH) using plurality of Fresnel lenses of poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is presented in the work. Size and yield of any solar water heater (SWH) are mainly dependent on its aperture area, output temperature, and mass flow rate, which are termed herein as critical parameters. Series of experimentations is carried out by varying critical design and operating parameters viz. aperture area, outlet temperature, and rate of mass flow, and similar experimentation is also carried out on commercially available flat plate SWH to compare its performance. Loss of heat from riser and header pipes is restricted by application of effective insulation. Substantial improvement in collector efficiency, increase in rate of mass flow, and rise in discharge temperature with reference to flat plate collector are noted. Economics is also studied covering life cycle cost (LCC), life cycle saving (LCS), and energy payback period.
Experimental Evaluation on Low Global Warming Potential HFO-1336mzz-Z as an Alternative to HCFC-123 and HFC-245fa
Authors: Wang Shikuan , Guo Zhikai , Han Xiaohong , Xu Xiangguo , Wang Qin , Deng Shiming , Chen Guangming
Published: November 2018

HFO-1336mzz-Z with low global warming potential (GWP) was considered as a promising alternative of HCFC-123, HFC-245fa in air conditioning (AC) and heat pump (HP), respectively. In order to understand the operation performances of HFO-1336mzz-Z and HCFC-123, HFC-245fa in different working conditions, an experimental setup for testing the refrigeration cycle performance was built. The cycle performances of HFO-1336mzz-Z and HCFC-123 in AC conditions, HFO-1336mzz-Z and HFC-245fa in HP conditions were investigated by experiment. It was found in AC conditions, the discharge temperatures for the systems with HFO-1336mzz-Z and HCFC-123 were lower than 115 °C, the cooling capacity of the system with HFO-1336mzz-Z was 27% less than that with HCFC-123 at least, and the coefficient of performance (COP) of the system with HFO-1336mzz-Z was 0.1 lower than that with HCFC-123; in HP conditions, the discharge temperature with HFO-1336mzz-Z was lower than that with HFC-245fa, the former was never over 115 °C while the latter was up to 126 °C, the power input to the compressor with HFO-1336mzz-Z was 20% less than that with HFC-245fa in the same HP conditions, the heating capacity of the system with HFO-1336mzz-Z was 30–40% less than that with HFC-245fa.
Energy Concentration by Bluff Bodies—A Particle Image Velocimetry Investigation
Authors: Manickam Sureshkumar Eshodarar , Arjomandi Maziar , Dally Bassam B. , Cazzolato Benjamin S. , Ghayesh Mergen H.
Published: November 2018

Particle image velocimetry (PIV) of four cylinders with different cross sections were performed in a recirculating water channel at Reynolds numbers of 5000 and 10,000. The cylinders were split into two distinct categories; semicircular and convex-edged triangular (c-triangular) prisms which have a smooth diverging fore-face and a flat, backward facing step aft-face, and a trapezoid which has a flat fore face and a backward-facing step aft-face. The resulting streamwise and transverse velocity vectors (u and v, respectively) were analyzed to provide a qualitative comparison of the bluff body wakes to the circular cylinder, which is the standard upstream stationary body in wake-induced vibration (WIV) energy technology. The Reynolds stresses, turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), mean spanwise vorticity, and the energy in the fluctuating component of the wake were compared. The main findings are: (i) a convex fore-face and a backward-facing step aft face are more effective at converting the flow energy to temporal wake energy (+20%) compared to a circular cylinder, (ii) a trapezoid type shape is less effective at converting flow energy to temporal wake energy (−40%) compared to a circular cylinder, (iii) increasing Reynolds number reduces the efficiency of conversion of upstream flow energy to downstream transverse temporal energy. Utilizing stationary upstream bodies such as the semicircle and the c-triangle can result in concentrating more energy in the fluctuating components for the downstream transversely vibrating bluff body in a WIV system, and hence can realize in more efficient WIV technology.