bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing for loss of Epichloë and non‐epichloid symbionts under altered rainfall regimes
Authors: David Aaron S. , Bell‐Dereske Lukas P. , Emery Sarah M. , McCormick Brandon M. , Seabloom Eric W. , Rudgers Jennifer A.
Published: August 2019

Premise

Microbial symbionts can buffer plant hosts from environmental change. Therefore, understanding how global change factors alter the associations between hosts and their microbial symbionts may improve predictions of future changes in host population dynamics and microbial diversity. Here, we investigated how one global change factor, precipitation, affected the maintenance or loss of symbiotic fungal endophytes in a C3 grass host. Specifically, we examined the distinct responses of Epichloë (vertically transmitted and systemic) and non‐epichloid endophytes (typically horizontally transmitted and localized) by considering (1) how precipitation altered associations with Epichloë and non‐epichloid endophytic taxa across host ontogeny, and (2) interactive effects of water availability and Epichloë on early seedling life history stages.

Methods

We manipulated the presence of Epichloë amarillans in American beachgrass (Ammophila breviligulata) in a multiyear field experiment that imposed three precipitation regimes (ambient or ±30% rainfall). In laboratory assays, we investigated the interactive effects of water availability and Epichloë on seed viability and germination.

Results

Reduced precipitation decreased the incidence of Epichloë in leaves in the final sampling period, but had no effect on associations with non‐epichloid taxa. Epichloë reduced the incidence of non‐epichloid endophytes, including systemic p‐endophytes, in seeds. Laboratory assays suggested that association with Epichloë is likely maintained, in part, due to increased seed viability and germination regardless of water availability.

Conclusions

Our study empirically demonstrates several pathways for plant symbionts to be lost or maintained across host ontogeny and suggests that reductions in precipitation can drive the loss of a plant's microbial symbionts.
Speckle observations with PISCO in Calern (France): I. Astrometric measurements of visual binaries in 2015–2016
Authors: Scardia Marco , Rivet Jean‐Pierre , Prieur Jean‐Louis , Pansecchi Luigi , Argyle Robert W. , Ling Josefina F. , Aristidi Eric , Zanutta Alessio , Vernet David , Abe Lyu , Bendjoya Philippe , Dimur Cécile , Suárez Olga
Published: August 2019

We present relative astrometric measurements of visual binaries, made in 2015–2016 with the speckle camera pupil interferometry speckle camera and coronagraph (PISCO) at the 1‐m Epsilon telescope of the C2PU facility (Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur, Calern site). Our observing list contains orbital couples as well as binaries whose motion is still uncertain. From our 1,233 observations of 1,173 multiple stars, we obtained 1,170 new measurements with angular separations in the range 0″.1 — 8″.2, and an average accuracy of 0″.0078. The mean error on the position angles is 0°.54. Most of the position angles were determined without the usual 180° ambiguity with the application of the direct vector autocorrelation technique and/or by inspection of the long integration files.
The effect of economic variables on a bio‐refinery for biodiesel production using calcium oxide catalyst﻿
Authors: Gebremariam Shemelis N. , Marchetti Jorge M.
Published: August 2019

This study investigates the effect of market variables on biodiesel production and considers a calcium oxide catalyzed transesterification process. A conceptual process simulation of a plant using Super Pro software was used to vary the economic scenarios and to evaluate the effects of selected variables such as prices of biodiesel, glycerol, oil, alcohol, catalyst, equipment maintenance, labor, and tax variation. Changing the values of these variables led to large effects on the overall economics of the production process. Oil purchasing cost exerted a larger influence on the economic outcome, with an approximately 73% decrease in net present value (NPV) for a 22% increase in the oil purchasing cost. Under optimum conditions the process would be profitable for oil costs below 590US$ ton−1. Varying the equipment maintenance costs produced a smaller effect, which could allow the amount of cost allocated for routine maintenance activities to be increased to sustain the productivity of the process. The study could also provide cutoff values for each variable for economic feasibility of the process at the given market scenario. © 2019 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poor peer work does not boost student confidence
Authors: Kappes Heather Barry , Fasolo Barbara , Han Wenjie , Barnes Jessica , Ter Meer Janna
Published: August 2019

Students' low confidence, particularly in numerical topics, is thought to be a barrier to keeping them engaged with education. We studied the effects on confidence of exposure to a peer's work of varying quality (very good or bad) and neatness (messy or neat). Previous research underpinned our hypothesis that a peer's bad‐quality work—which students rarely see—might boost student confidence more than very good work. We also predicted that a peer's very good work—which students are often shown—might be less discouraging if it were messy, suggesting it required effort and struggle. However, in experiments with university students and low‐educated adults, these hypotheses were not supported, and all participants decreased in confidence after seeing any peer work. The failure to find support for these hypotheses can inform future research into social comparison effects on self‐confidence in numerical topics. These results also have practical implications for teachers and managers who are expected to provide examples of peer work.
Hesitant hopes: How a comprehensive approach to learning impacts on the transition hopes of marginalised young people in an alternative learning programme in regional Australia
Authors: Bloomfield Corey , Harreveld Bobby , Fisher Rickie
Published: August 2019

Concerns have been raised internationally about whether alternative learning programmes are producing low‐skilled labourers for rapidly disappearing twenty‐first‐century jobs. Researchers claim that learners in alternative programmes are more at risk due to the focus on low‐level vocational and basic skill attainment, with a lack of formal academic pathways available to them. This article questions whether and in what ways an alternative learning programme supports young people to achieve successful transitions to sustainable social mobility for informed citizenship through a holistic approach to learning; or if class stratification is being re/enforced through systems’ accountability discourses. Hesitant hopes in alternative learning are explored through an ethnographic study of one alternative learning programme across five sites in regional Australia. Contextually, not‐for‐profit community agencies provide physical infrastructures as well as youth workers and volunteers, while a publicly funded School of Distance Education provides teacher oversight of the curriculum. Findings suggest that the theme of ‘hesitant hope’ is constructed through the analysis of the discourses of supporting wellbeing, life skill development and academic learning. These discourses facilitate further analysis of the concept of social mobility, suggesting a conceptual starting point for an engaging critique of the differing perspectives on how support could be providing these marginalised young people with a sense of hope for a socially mobile future.
Long-term follow-up of the AVOD randomized trial of antibiotic avoidance in uncomplicated diverticulitis
Authors: Isacson D , Smedh K , Nikberg M , Chabok A
Published: August 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the long-term results in patients with uncomplicated diverticulitis who had participated in the Antibiotics in Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis (AVOD) RCT, which randomized patients with CT-verified left-sided acute uncomplicated diverticulitis to management without or with antibiotics.

Methods

The medical records of patients who had participated in the AVOD trial were reviewed for long-term results such as recurrences, complications and surgery. Quality-of-life questionnaires (EQ-5D™) were sent to patients, who were also contacted by telephone. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis of clinical outcomes.

Results

A total of 556 of the 623 patients (89·2 per cent) were followed up for a median of 11 years. There were no differences between the no-antibiotic and antibiotic group in recurrences (both 31·3 per cent; P = 0·986), complications (4·4 versus 5·0 per cent; P = 0·737), surgery for diverticulitis (6·2 versus 7·1 per cent; P = 0·719) or colorectal cancer (0·4 versus 2·1 per cent; P = 0·061). The response rate for the EQ-5D™ was 52·8 versus 45·2 per cent respectively (P = 0·030), and no differences were found between the two groups in any of the measured dimensions.

Conclusion

Antibiotic avoidance for uncomplicated diverticulitis is safe in the long term.
Benign hilar bile duct strictures resected as perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Otsuka S , Ebata T , Yokoyama Y , Igami T , Mizuno T , Yamaguchi J , Onoe S , Watanabe N , Shimoyama Y , Nagino M
Published: August 2019

Background

Differentiation between perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) and benign strictures is frequently difficult. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and long-term outcome of patients with tumours resected because of suspicion of PHCC, which ultimately turned out to be benign (malignancy masquerade).

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical resection with a diagnosis of PHCC between 2001 and 2016 were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

Among 707 consecutive patients, 685 had PHCC and the remaining 22 (3·1 per cent) had benign biliary stricture. All patients with benign disease underwent major hepatectomy, with no deaths. Preoperative histological assessment using bile duct biopsy or aspiration cytology had a high specificity (90 per cent), low sensitivity (62 per cent) and unsatisfactory accuracy (63 per cent). Despite the increasing use of histological assessment, the incidence of benign strictures resected did not decrease over time, being 0·9 per cent in 2001–2004, 4·0 per cent in 2005–2008, 3·8 per cent in 2009–2012 and 2·9 per cent in 2013–2016. The final pathology of benign strictures included IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (9 patients), hepatolithiasis (4), granulomatous cholangitis (3), non-specific chronic cholangitis (3), benign strictures after cholecystectomy (2), and a benign stricture possibly caused by parasitic infection (1). The 10-year overall survival rate for the 22 patients with benign stricture was 87 per cent, without recurrence of biliary stricture.

Conclusion

The incidence of benign strictures resected as PHCC as a proportion of all resections was relatively low, at 3·1 per cent. Currently, unnecessary surgery for suspected PHCC is unavoidable.
Diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer in pregnant women
Authors: Beharee Nitish , Shi Zhujun , Wu Dongchen , Wang Jinhua
Published: August 2019

In recent years, the incidence of gynecological malignant tumors during pregnancy has increased, mainly due to the increased number of old age pregnancy. The most common gynecological malignant tumors in pregnancy are cervical cancer, accounting for 71.6%, followed by ovarian malignant tumors, accounting for 7.0%. The incidence of cervical cancer in pregnancy is itself not very high, and the symptoms are easily confused with other diseases in pregnancy. During pregnancy, gynecological examination is limited, and therefore, the rate of misdiagnosis is higher. The treatment of cervical cancer during pregnancy is related to many factors, such as tumor size, pathological type, period of gestation, lymph node involvement, and patients' willingness to maintain pregnancy. As a reason of these factors, it is difficult to determine the optimal treatment. This article reviews the research progress on the diagnosis and treatment principles of cervical cancer in pregnancy, in order to strike a balance between effective treatment of tumors and protection of fetal health, and avoid delays in treatment and preterm delivery.
Individual decision making about lung cancer screening: A conjoint analysis of perspectives among a high‐risk national sample
Authors: Byrne Margaret M. , Thurer Richard J. , Studts Jamie L.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Lung cancer screening (LCS) is effective in reducing lung cancer mortality, but there is limited information available regarding preferences among high‐risk individuals concerning LCS. In this study, we use a conjoint valuation analysis (CVA) to better understand which LCS attributes most affect LCS preferences.

Materials and Methods

We implemented a web‐based nationally representative survey that included a full‐profile CVA exercise. Participants were over the age of 45, had at least a 20 pack‐year smoking history, and no history of lung cancer. The CVA instrument included five LCS attributes, and additional survey items collected demographic and psychosocial information.

Results

Participants (n = 210) had a mean age of 61 (SD 8.5) years, approximately half were female (51.9%), and were racially/ethnically diverse. Average relative importance of the LCS program attributes was (from high to low): out of pocket costs (27.3 ± 17.7); provider recommendation (24.8 ± 13.4); mortality reduction (17.2 ± 8.9); false‐positive rate (15.8 ± 10.4); and ease of access (14.8 ± 7.3). There was large variation among individuals, but few significant associations of propensity to screen with individual demographic characteristics. Average screening propensity across individuals (1‐9 scale) was 3.63 ± 1.6, and average rates of individual scenarios ranged from 2.60 ± 2.00 to 5.57 ± 2.13, indicating low inclination for screening.

Conclusions

We found that overall propensity for screening is low in a high‐risk population, and that out of pocket costs were of greater importance to potential screeners than mortality reduction or false‐positive rates. Thus, individuals considering or eligible for LCS need additional education and support regarding the LCS landscape in order to achieve informed decision making.
Validation and application of a prognostic model for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer receiving palliative chemotherapy
Authors: Huang Pei‐Wei , Chang Ching‐Fu , Hung Chia‐Yen , Hsueh Shun‐Wen , Chang Pei‐Hung , Yeh Kun‐Yun , Chen Jen‐Shi , Chen Yen‐Yang , Lu Chang‐Hsien , Hung Yu‐Shin , Chou Wen‐Chi
Published: August 2019

Background

We previously developed a robust prognostic model (GS model) to predict the survival outcome of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) receiving palliative chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus S‐1 (GS). This study aimed to validate the application of the GS model in APC patients receiving chemotherapy other than the GS regimen.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively analyzed 727 APC patients who received first‐line palliative chemotherapy other than the GS regimen between 2010 and 2016 at four institutions in Taiwan. The patients were categorized into three prognostic groups based on the GS model for comparisons of survival outcome, best tumor response, and in‐group survival differences with monotherapy or combination therapy.

Results

The median survival times for the good, intermediate, and poor prognostic groups were 13.4, 8.4, and 4.6 months, respectively. The hazard ratios for the comparisons of intermediate and poor to good prognostic groups were 1.51 (95% confidence interval [CI]), 1.22‐1.88, P < .001) and 2.84 (95% CI, 2.34‐3.45, P < .001). The best tumor responses with either partial response or stable disease were 57.5%, 40.4%, and 17.2% of patients in the good, intermediate, and poor prognostic groups (P < .001), respectively. For patients in the good prognostic group, first‐line chemotherapy with monotherapy and combination therapy had similar median survival times (13.8 vs 12.9 months, P = .26), while combination therapy showed a better median survival time than monotherapy in patients in the intermediate and poor prognostic groups (8.5 vs 8.0 months, P = .038 and 5.7 vs 3.7 months, P = .001, respectively).

Conclusion

The results of our study supported the application of the GS model as a general prognostic tool for patients with pancreatic cancer receiving first‐line palliative chemotherapy with gemcitabine‐based regimens.
Safety and efficacy of polymer‐free biolimus‐eluting stents versus ultrathin stents in unprotected left main or coronary bifurcation: A propensity score analysis from the RAIN and CHANCE registries
Authors: D'Ascenzo Fabrizio , Gaido Luca , Bernardi Alessandro , Saglietto Andrea , Franzé Alfonso , Ielasi Alfonso , Trabattoni Daniela , Di Biasi Maurizio , Infantino Vincenzo , Rognoni Andrea , Helft Gerard , Gangor Andrea , Latini Roberto A. , De Luca Leonardo , Mitomo Satoru , Ugo Fabrizio , Smolka Grzegorz , Huczek Zenon , Cortese Bernardo , Capodanno Davide , Chieffo Alaide , Piazza Fabio , di Mario Carlo , Poli Arnaldo , D'Urbano Maurizio , Romeo Francesco , Giammaria Massimo , Varbella Ferdinando , Sheiban Imad , Escaned Javier , De Ferrari Gaetano M.
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Evaluate safety and efficacy of polymer‐free biolimus‐eluting stents (PF‐BESs) versus ultrathin stents in unprotected left main (ULM) or bifurcation.

Background

PF‐BESs due to reduced length of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) are increasingly used. However, there are limited data about safety and efficacy for ULM or bifurcation.

Methods

We selected all‐patients treated for ULM or bifurcation from two multicenter real life registries (RAIN [NCT03544294] evaluating ultrathin stents, CHANCE [NCT03622203] appraising PF‐BES). After propensity score with matching, the primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACE; a composite of all‐cause death, myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization [TLR], and stent thrombosis [ST]), while its components along with target vessel revascularization (TVR) secondary endpoints.

Results

Three thousand and three patients treated with ultrathin stents and 446 with PF‐BESs, resulting respectively in 562 and 281 after propensity score with matching (33 and 22%, respectively, with ULM disease). After 12 (8–20) months, rates of MACE were similar (9 vs. 8%, p = 0.56) without difference in TLR and ST (3.0 vs. 1.7%, p = .19 and 1.8 vs. 1.1%, p = .42). These results were consistent for ULM group (3 vs. 1.7% and 1.8 vs. 1.1%, p = .49 and .76), for non‐ULM group (2.1 vs. 3.4%, p = .56 and 1.2 vs. 1.7%, p = .78) and for two‐stent strategy (8.7 vs. 4.5% and 4.3 vs. 3.2%, p = .75 and .91). Among patients treated with 1 month of DAPT in both groups, those with ultrathin stents experienced higher rates of MACE related to all‐cause death (22 vs. 12%, p = .04) with higher although not significant rates of ST (3 vs. 0%, p = .45).

Conclusions

PF‐BES implanted on ULM or BiF offered freedom from TLR and ST comparable to ultrathin stents. PF‐BESs patients assuming DAPT for 1 month experienced a lower despite not significant incidence of ST.
Dramatic response to modified docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil chemotherapy after immunotherapy in a patient with refractory metastatic anal cancer
Authors: Shahjehan Faisal , Kamatham Saivaishnavi , Ritter Ashton , Kasi Pashtoon Murtaza
Published: August 2019

Doublet chemotherapies are the mainstay in the management of metastatic anal cancer. Immunotherapy has been incorporated into guidelines in a refractory setting. Treatment options remain limited with tumor progression beyond immunotherapy. Modified docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil (mDCF) chemotherapy, after progression postimmunotherapy, has shown a near‐complete response in our patient with metastatic anal cancer. This likely is secondary to the sequence of immunotherapy followed by chemotherapy that is yielding greater than historical responses.
Straightforward Electrochemical Sulfonylation of Arenes and Aniline Derivatives using Sodium Sulfinates
Authors: Nikl Joachim , Ravelli Davide , Schollmeyer Dieter , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: August 2019

We present a general electrochemical synthesis of sulfones from arenes and aniline derivatives with sodium sulfinates. A wide range of C−S cross‐coupling products is available by this oxidant‐ and transition metal‐free method. Both aryl and diaryl sulfones can be readily obtained, using this scalable and inherently safe one‐step protocol. Since the synthesis excludes the need for additional supporting electrolyte and occurs in an aqueous electrolyte system that is easily recovered and recycled, this strategy represents a sustainable and green alternative to existing sulfonylation reactions.
Flüssig/Flüssig‐Extraktion von Indium aus sauren Lösungen
Authors: Vostal Radek , Reiber Martin , Bertau Martin
Published: August 2019

Die Extraktion von Indium aus einer synthetischen, sulfathaltigen Lösung unter Verwendung von handelsüblichen Reagenzien (Cyanex 272, DEHPA und Cyanex 923) wird vergleichend bewertet. Die Extraktionsprofile von Indium (III) wurden im Hinblick auf die Reagenzkonzentration, den pH‐Wert der wässrigen Lösung und die Indiumkonzentration in einem niedrigen Phasenverhältnis von 1:10 untersucht. DEHPA und Cyanex 272 sind im Gegensatz zu Cyanex 923 sehr gut zur Extraktion von Indium geeignet. Die Reextraktion mit HCl und H2SO4 wird vergleichend betrachtet.
Furin‐mediated protein processing in infectious diseases and cancer
Authors: Braun Elisabeth , Sauter Daniel
Published: August 2019

Proteolytic cleavage regulates numerous processes in health and disease. One key player is the ubiquitously expressed serine protease furin, which cleaves a plethora of proteins at polybasic recognition motifs. Mammalian substrates of furin include cytokines, hormones, growth factors and receptors. Thus, it is not surprising that aberrant furin activity is associated with a variety of disorders including cancer. Furthermore, the enzymatic activity of furin is exploited by numerous viral and bacterial pathogens, thereby enhancing their virulence and spread. In this review, we describe the physiological and pathophysiological substrates of furin and discuss how dysregulation of a simple proteolytic cleavage event may promote infectious diseases and cancer. One major focus is the role of furin in viral glycoprotein maturation and pathogenicity. We also outline cellular mechanisms regulating the expression and activation of furin and summarise current approaches that target this protease for therapeutic intervention.
Revisiting cercariform cells: Small cell carcinoma masquerading as cercariform cells
Authors: El Hussein Siba , Colanta Agnes , Khader Samer N.
Published: August 2019

Cercariform cells are slender cells with a bulbous end and a unipolar long cytoplasmic process, resembling Schistosoma cercariae. Since their first description in urothelial carcinoma, multiple studies have attempted to explore their utility in distinguishing metastatic urothelial carcinoma from other common malignant neoplasms, such as adenocarcinoma and squamous‐cell carcinoma. Although not pathognomonic, they are most commonly encountered in urothelial carcinoma, but they can also be seen in other neoplasms, raising the possibility that this cytomorphological feature can be exploited to aid in diagnosis.
Small‐cell neuroendocrine carcinoma in directly sampled endometrial cytology: A monocentric retrospective study of six cases
Authors: Ebisu Yusuke , Ishida Mitsuaki , Okano Kimiaki , Sandoh Kaori , Mizokami Tomomi , Kita Masato , Okada Hidetaka , Tsuta Koji
Published: August 2019

Small‐cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) of the endometrium is extremely rare, and demonstrates an aggressive clinical course. Since reports describing its cytological features are scarce, we aimed to retrospectively analyze these features. Patients with a histopathological diagnosis of NEC who underwent preoperative cytological examination, were enrolled in this study. The cytological features including the background, arrangement, and shape of the neoplastic cells, and the nuclear and cytoplasmic features were reviewed; six patients were enrolled. The conventionally stained, directly sampled cytological specimens showed small neoplastic cell clusters in all cases, as well as isolated neoplastic cells and large clusters in 3 and 2 cases, respectively, in inflammatory or necrotic backgrounds. These neoplastic cells had a high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio, and round to oval nuclei with powdery chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and scant cytoplasm. Nuclear molding was a characteristic finding. An adenocarcinoma component was also present in 3 cases. Initial cytodiagnosis revealed small‐cell NEC and adenocarcinoma or suspected adenocarcinoma in 1 and 4 cases, respectively. The one remaining case was found to be negative and was considered as degenerated endometrial stromal cells. Primarily owing to overlooking this component, the initial cytodiagnostic accuracy of small‐cell NEC was low, particularly in cases with coexisting adenocarcinoma. However, the cytological features of this tumor were characteristic. Therefore, although extremely rare, careful observation is essential for an early and accurate diagnosis and to prevent overlooking the small‐cell NEC component.
Ablated mass of PTFE nozzle due to high‐current SF6 arc exposure: Formulation of ablated mass
Authors: Sato Motohiro , Horinouchi Katsuhiko , Hiza Shuichi , Nakamura Yasunori , Shimizu Yoshinori , Yokomizu Yasunobu
Published: August 2019

Characteristics of PTFE ablation due to SF6 arc exposure were studied to predict the ablated mass of PTFE nozzle in high‐voltage circuit breaker. From the measurement of the ablated mass, the predominant factor of the PTFE ablation was revealed as a radiation power of SF6 arc. Subsequently, the radiation power absorbed in PTFE was formulated on the basis of the radiation transfer property and the arc physics. The formulation for the prediction of the PTFE ablated mass was established with the formulated radiation power and the measured masses. Finally, the validity of the PTFE ablated mass prediction was shown from the results of the error verification with the measured masses.
The interplay of modern myths about sexual aggression and moral foundations in the blaming of rape victims
Authors: Milesi Patrizia , Süssenbach Philipp , Bohner Gerd , Megías Jesús L.
Published: August 2019

Moral Foundations Theory proposes five intuition‐based moral concerns: Care and Fairness (“individualizing foundations”) as well as Loyalty, Authority, and Sanctity (“binding foundations”). In studies carried out in Italy, Spain, and Germany, the authors examined how these concerns are associated with the acceptance of modern myths about sexual aggression (AMMSA), and how both jointly predict rape victim blaming. Overall, victim blaming was positively predicted by Authority and Sanctity, and negatively predicted by Care and Fairness. Although victim blaming was best predicted by AMMSA, moral concerns also contributed to its prediction, partly independently, partly mediated through AMMSA, and in the case of Sanctity in interaction with AMMSA. Discussion highlights how integrating moral foundations in the investigation of victim blaming and AMMSA across different cultural contexts may deepen our understanding of why, in each cultural context, victim blaming and related beliefs are resistant to change.
Interaction between polymorphisms of the oxytocinergic system genes and emotion perception in inpatients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Kucharska Katarzyna , Kot Emilia , Biernacka Katarzyna , Zimowski Janusz , Rogoza Radosław , Rybakowski Filip , Kostecka Barbara , Bednarska‐Makaruk Małgorzata
Published: August 2019

Objective

The empirical literature describes the role of the oxytocinergic system in emotion perception (EP). Variants in the oxytocin (OXT) and oxytocin receptor genes have been associated with mental disorders, including anorexia nervosa (AN), that are characterized by difficulties in socioemotional functioning. Our study aimed to examine whether variability within the genes related to OXT pathways may play a role in facial EP in inpatients with AN.

Method

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the following genes: oxytocin receptor (rs2254298, rs53576), OXT (rs6133010), OXT‐arginine‐vasopressin (rs2740204), CD38 (rs6449197, rs3796863), and human leucyl/cystinylaminopeptidase (rs4869317) were genotyped in 60 AN female inpatients and 60 healthy control females (HCs). Associations between genetic polymorphisms and EP as well as clinical symptoms were examined.

Results

The AN group showed decreased EP abilities compared with HCs. SNPs of rs2740204, rs6133010, and rs53576 were associated with differences in EP in women with AN and in HCs. The SNP of rs4869317 was associated with the level of eating disorders symptoms in HCs.

Conclusions

The OXT system may be involved in EP difficulties in AN. SNPs within genes related to OXT pathways may influence EP abilities. The leucyl/cystinylaminopeptidase rs4869317 SNP may be involved in the development of eating disorders psychopathology.
Effect of accreditation and certification on the quality management system: Analysis based on Turkish hospitals
Authors: Yıldız Mustafa Said , Öztürk Zekai , Topal Mehmet , Khan M. Mahmud
Published: August 2019

Effects of certification and accreditation on hospital quality management systems (QMS) are measured to better understand the value of external recognitions. This study identifies the QMS dimensions that show significant improvements with hospital certification and/or accreditation. Data were collected from 350 Turkish hospitals using a structured questionnaire. Mean scores of nine domains of QMS were used as outcome variables. Although quality policy documents, quality monitoring by board, and training of professionals are the focus of generic QMS, ISO certification did not affect these scores significantly. Formal protocols for infection control scores are affected by hospital size and certification status. Adoption of Ministry of Health's (MOH) infection control initiatives has improved this score for all hospital types. Formal protocols for medication and patient handling, analyzing performance of care processes, and evaluating results improved with accreditation and certification status. Larger hospitals were better able to implement application of protocols, analyzing care process and evaluating results. For improvements in the QMS scores, external assessments are valuable, but quality‐focused governmental regulations appear important for improving QMS of small and medium‐sized hospitals. Higher QMS scores, however, may not lead to improved quality. Future studies should explore the relationship between QMS scores and service quality.
Applying self‐determination theory to understand the motivational impact of cash rewards: New evidence from lab experiments
Authors: Thibault Landry Anaïs , Zhang Ying , Papachristopoulos Konstantinos , Forest Jacques
Published: August 2019

We investigated, based on self‐determination theory (SDT), the impact of the functional meaning of monetary rewards on individuals' motivation and performance and further tested the role of the psychological needs as the underlying mechanism. In two experimental studies, we show that when presented in an autonomy‐supportive way, rewards lead participants to experience greater intrinsic motivation, which leads them to perform better, than when monetary rewards are presented in a controlling way. This is mediated by greater psychological need satisfaction, indicating that through greater feelings of competence, autonomy, and relatedness, individuals experience greater intrinsic motivation for the task at hand. Our findings suggest that rewards can have a distinct effect on individuals' motivation and performance depending on whether they take on an autonomy‐supportive or controlling meaning, thus providing empirical evidence for the theoretical and practical implications of SDT's concept of functional meaning of rewards. By highlighting the importance of this concept, this research contributes to our understanding of the effectiveness of such rewards in the workplace, suggesting that they can foster employee motivation and performance if organisations present them to employees in an autonomy‐supportive way to convey an informational meaning and positively contribute to their psychological need stisfaction.
Effect of Initial Soil Water Content on Output Parameters of Sirmod Software Under Types of Different Irrigation Management
Authors: Javadi Ali , Mostafazadeh‐Fard Behrouz , Shayannejad Mohammad , Ebrahimian Hamed
Published: August 2019

The main objective of this study was to investigate the sensitivity of the output parameters of SIRMOD software relative to initial soil water content. The treatments consisted of three irrigation water qualities, two types of soil water content management (FC and 30% FC; FC is field capacity) and three irrigation events. The HYDRUS‐1D software was calibrated to simulate infiltration under different initial soil water contents. Subsequently, the infiltration coefficients obtained from the HYDRUS model were used to simulate the border irrigation system under the different border lengths and inflow rates using the SIRMOD software. The results showed that soil was more permeable under FC management than under 30% FC. The sensitivity of the output parameters of the SIRMOD software under FC was more sensitive compared to 30% FC. The high‐ and low‐sensitive treatments were in the FC and 30% FC management with high saline‐sodic water, respectively. Due to the high permeability under FC, in order to increase the irrigation application efficiency and reduce its sensitivity, the inflow rate should be greater while border length has to be less, compared to 30% FC. Sensitivity analysis of the output parameters showed that the advance time and tailwater fraction were identified as the most and least sensitive parameters, respectively. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative analysis of calculating sigma metrics by a trueness verification proficiency testing‐based approach and an internal quality control data inter‐laboratory comparison‐based approach
Authors: Li Runqing , Wang Tengjiao , Gong Lijun , Peng Peng , Yang Song , Zhao Haibin , Xiong Pan
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Two methods were compared for evaluating the sigma metrics of clinical biochemistry tests using two different allowable total error (TEa) specifications.

Materials and methods

The imprecision (CV%) and bias (bias%) of 19 clinical biochemistry analytes were calculated using a trueness verification proficiency testing (TPT)‐based approach and an internal quality control data inter‐laboratory comparison (IQC)‐based approach, respectively. Two sources of total allowable error (TEa), the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA '88) and the People's Republic of China Health Industry Standard (WS/T 403‐2012), were used to calculate the sigma metrics (σCLIA, σWS/T). Sigma metrics were calculated to provide a single value for assessing the quality of each test based on a single concentration level.

Results

For both approaches, σCLIA > σWS/T in 18 out of 19 assays. For the TPT‐based approach, 16 assays showed σCLIA > 3, and 12 assays showed σWS/T > 3. For the IQC‐based approach, 19 and 16 assays showed σCLIA > 3 and σWS/T > 3, respectively.

Conclusions

Both methods can be used as references for calculating sigma metrics and designing QC schedules in clinical laboratories. Sigma metrics should be evaluated comprehensively by different approaches.
Entrepreneurial intent of engineering and business undergraduate students
Authors: Gilmartin Shannon K. , Thompson Marissa E. , Morton Emily , Jin Qu , Chen Helen L. , Colby Anne , Sheppard Sheri D.
Published: August 2019

Background

In recent years, technological innovation and entrepreneurship have been emphasized in engineering education. There is a need to better understand which individual‐ and contextual‐level factors are related to engineering students' entrepreneurial intentions.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study explores individual and contextual predictors of entrepreneurial intent among undergraduate women and men in engineering and business majors. Entrepreneurial intent is defined as the personal importance that students ascribe to starting a new business or organization.

Design/Method

The participants included 518 engineering and 471 business undergraduates from 51 U.S. colleges and universities. We examined relationships first by discipline and then by gender in each discipline using regression models with interaction terms.

Results

Innovation orientation and participation in entrepreneurship activities tied to intent more strongly for engineering students than for business students; in contrast, being at a research institution and selection of novel goals tied to intent more strongly for business students than for their engineering peers. Among engineering students only, being able to switch gears and apply alternative means for reaching one's goal in the face of setbacks was positively related with women's entrepreneurial intent but not with men's.

Conclusions

Entrepreneurial intent is a function of individual‐level characteristics and academic and social contexts, with some degree of discipline‐specific effects. Diversifying the community of aspiring engineering entrepreneurs is a critical issue that merits attention by the engineering education community.
Change in phospholipid species of retinal layer in traumatic optic neuropathy model
Authors: Hirahara Yukie , Wakabayashi Taketoshi , Koike Taro , Gamo Keizo , Yamada Hisao
Published: August 2019

Injured optic nerves induce death in almost all retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and cause a loss of axons. To date, we have studied injured RGC axon regeneration by using a traumatic optic nerve injury (TONI) rodent model, and we revealed that axonal regeneration is induced by the graft of an autologous peripheral nerve. The efficient approach to the regeneration of axons thus needs an environmental adjustment of RGC. However, the RGC environment induced by TONI remains unknown. Here, we analyzed female and male C57BL/6 mouse retinal tissue alterations in detail after TONI and focused on the major phospholipid species that are enriched in the whole retina. Reactive astrocyte accumulation, glia scar formation, and demyelination were observed in the injured optic nerve area, while RGC cell death, astrocyte accumulation, and Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) positive Müller cell increases were detected in the retinal layer. Furthermore, phosphatidylinositol (PI) 18:0/20:4 was localized to three nuclear layer structures: the ganglion cell layer (GCL), the inner nuclear layer (INL), and the outer nuclear layer (ONL) in control retina; however, the localization of 18:0/20:4 PI in TONI was disturbed. Meanwhile, phosphatidylserine (PS) 18:0/22:6 showed that the expression was specifically in the inner plexiform layer (IPL) with similar signal intensity in both cases. Other PS species and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) were differentially localized in the retinal layer; however, the expressions of PE including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were affected by TONI. These results suggest that not only GCL but also other retinal layers were influenced by TONI.
Relationship Between Dietary Fiber Intake and Short‐Chain Fatty Acid–Producing Bacteria During Critical Illness: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fu Yichun , Moscoso Dagmara I. , Porter Joyce , Krishnareddy Suneeta , Abrams Julian A. , Seres David , Chong David H. , Freedberg Daniel E.
Published: August 2019

Background

Dietary fiber increases short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA)‐producing bacteria yet is often withheld in the intensive care unit (ICU). This study evaluated the safety and effect of fiber in ICU patients with gut microbiome sampling.

Methods

This was a retrospective study nested within a prospective cohort. Adults were included if newly admitted to the ICU and could receive oral nutrition, enteral feedings, or no nutrition. Rectal swabs were performed at admission and 72 hours later. The primary exposure was fiber intake over 72 hours, classified in tertiles and adjusted for energy intake. The primary outcome was the relative abundance (RA) of SCFA producers via 16S RNA sequencing and the tolerability of fiber.

Results

In 129 patients, median fiber intake was 13.4 g (interquartile range 0–35.4 g) over 72 hours. The high‐fiber group had less abdominal distension (11% high fiber vs 28% no fiber, P < .01) and no increase in diarrhea (15% high fiber vs 13% no fiber, P = .94) or other adverse events. The median RA of SCFA producers after 72 hours was 0.40%, 0.50%, and 1.8% for the no‐, low‐, and high‐fiber groups (P = .05 for trend). After correcting for energy intake, the median RA of SCFA producers was 0.41%, 0.32%, and 2.35% in the no‐, low‐, and high‐corrected‐fiber categories (P < .01). These associations remained significant after adjusting for clinical factors including antibiotics.

Conclusions

During the 72 hours after ICU admission, fiber was well tolerated, and higher fiber intake was associated with more SCFA‐producers.
Minerals and microstructure identification using Raman instruments: Evaluation of field and laboratory data in preparation for space mission
Authors: Malherbe C. , Hutchinson I. B. , McHugh M. , Lerman H. , Harris L. V. , Ingley R. , Edwards H.M.G. , Parnell J. , Eppe G.
Published: August 2019

Two rovers will be launched in 2020 for robotic exploration missions on Mars: the ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars and the NASA Mars 2020 missions. Both missions will include Raman instruments to characterize the habitable of Mars and to search for molecular evidence of past and present life. In preparation for these missions and to characterize the scientific information that will eventually return from Mars, terrestrial analogue samples of rock formations on Mars are studied in detail. During this study, we compared Raman spectra obtained from different samples of geological matrixes, including specimens of silicate, sulfate, carbonates, and sulfurs, with two Raman instruments. Raman data were obtained in the field with a portable instrument operating with a 785‐nm laser. Based on fast data analyses in the field, a selection of samples were collected and were further analyzed using a benchtop confocal instrument operated in the laboratory and with two excitation lasers at 532 and 785 nm. We illustrate the possible interference from sharp fluorescence associated with rare earth element present in trace amount in minerals. In addition, carbonaceous compounds and β‐carotene, a highly Raman‐active biomarker, were also detected by Raman spectroscopy in association with specific minerals. In the context of planetary exploration, we discuss the capacity for specific mineral matrixes to sustain life under extreme conditions. We also discuss that Raman imaging, although not ready yet for space application with miniaturized spectroscopy, could significantly help in discussing the possible biotic origin of carbonaceous residues, especially by the association of molecular signatures with the localized microstructure.
Raman discrimination of garnet inclusions in Siberian diamonds
Authors: Kalugina A.D. , Zedgenizov D.A.
Published: August 2019

The composition of garnet inclusions in natural garnets is exceptionally useful for identification of the chemical and physical properties of mantle lithologies in which they occur. The results of Raman study of garnet inclusions in Siberian diamonds are presented. Most of studied garnets belong to either peridotitic (P type, n = 101) or eclogitic (E type, n = 63), and some rare garnets are websteritic (n = 5). Detected spectroscopic features of garnets in diamonds reveal a wide wave number ranges for rotational R[SiO4], bending ν2, and stretching ν1 modes. The peak positions of the Raman bands correlate with content of major components of garnets. Raman shift of stretching ν1 and bending ν2 vibrations reflects Ca–Mg and Al–Cr isomorphism. The found correlations have been applied for rough estimation of the garnet compositions. This method allows to discriminate E‐type and P‐type garnets marking diamondiferous mantle rocks.
Synergism and Phase Behavior of Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether Acetate and Cationic Surfactant‐Mixed Systems
Authors: Zhou Yuan , Zhang Xiaolan , Yang Xiuquan , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2019

Synergism in mixed micelle formation and surface tension reduction efficiency and the ternary phase behavior of anionic surfactant (alcohol polyoxyethylene ether acetate containing 10 ethylene oxide group and a fatty chain of C16–18) with cationic surfactants (dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and lauryltrimethyl ammonium chloride) were investigated. Surface tension of the systems at different molar ratios was studied in detail and the interaction parameters of each system were calculated. The results show that both systems have lower values of critical micelle concentration (CMC) and γcmc than individual surfactants especially at equal ratio between cationic and anionic surfactants. Both systems present synergism in mixed micelle formation and surface tension reduction efficiency. The ternary phase behavior of the two systems was investigated using a polarized microscope. The micellar phase and lamellar phase were observed in both systems and the coexisting phase was only observed in the dodecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride system.
Allergenicity reduction and rheology property of Lactobacillus‐fermented soymilk
Authors: Xia Jiaheng , Zu Qinqin , Yang Anshu , Wu Zhihua , Li Xin , Tong Ping , Yuan Juanli , Wu Yong , Fan Qingsheng , Chen Hongbing
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the reduction in the potential allergenicity of soymilk, and its rheological properties, after fermentation with Lactobacillus. Soymilk (SM) was fermented with Lactobacillus brevis and Lactobacillus sp. The molecular weight of fermented soymilk (FSM) was characterized using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), and the potential allergenicity of FSM was analyzed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in vitro and the BALB/c mouse model to detect changes in histamine, mouse mast cell protease‐1 (mMCP‐1), allergen‐specific IgG/IgE, and cytokine levels and histomorphology of jejunum in vivo.

RESULTS

The SDS‐PAGE and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that allergens of soybean (β‐conglycinin and acidic subunit of glycinin) were almost degraded, and their immunoreactivity was decreased. In the BALB/c mouse model, the FSM group did not show anaphylactic shock symptoms compared with the SM group. Moreover, a tendency toward decreased serum allergen‐specific IgG/IgE levels, plasma histamine levels, and mMCP‐1 concentrations was observed in the FSM group. Furthermore, Th2‐related cytokines were decreased, while IFN‐γ production increased in spleen cell cultures. The intestinal villus was slightly damaged after the challenge. All these findings indicated that the Th1/Th2 balance in the FSM group shifted toward a Th1 response, ultimately reducing the potential allergenicity of FSM. Rheological assessment suggested that FSM has good viscous and pseudoplastic properties.

CONCLUSION

Fermentation might be a promising method for producing tasty, hypoallergenic soybean products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry