bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life history and habitat explain variation among insect pest populations subject to global change
Authors: Walter Jonathan A. , Ives Anthony R. , Tooker John F. , Johnson Derek M.
Published: May 2018

Population dynamic responses to global change have varied widely among taxa. Most studies of population dynamics of insect pests focus on one or a few species, leaving open the question of whether changes in outbreak patterns are species‐specific or reveal predictable responses to global change, and what factors explain differences among populations. We analyzed 64 multi‐decadal time series of agricultural and forest pest insect populations in the United States. We first characterized populations according to long‐term trends, strength of population regulation, and cycle presence and length. We then asked whether these attributes could be predicted by geography, taxonomy, and life‐history traits. Roughly half of time series exhibited a long‐term trend, and agricultural pests were more likely to be declining, while forest pests were more likely to be increasing. Approximately one quarter of records exhibited periodic oscillations, and we used their statistical properties to infer whether the oscillations were environmentally forced or arose from density dependence. Insects hatching in early spring may be more strongly influenced by environmental forcing, for example, early springs or late spring frosts, than species hatching later. Our findings suggest roles of climate change, forest compositional change, and agricultural practices in driving long‐term change in pest populations.
Relationships among introduced parasites, host defenses, and gut microbiota of Galapagos birds
Authors: Knutie Sarah A.
Published: May 2018

Parasites can cause significant damage to their hosts. Hosts can reduce the damage that parasites cause by either resisting parasites (e.g., with an immune response) or tolerating parasites (e.g., with energy compensation). Recent work suggests that host‐associated microbiota (bacteria) affect parasites, and vice versa, which can be mediated by host defense mechanisms. Although there are many possible interactions among parasites, host defenses, and host‐associated microbiota, few studies have explored these interactions in non‐model systems. Such studies are important for understanding disease risk, especially when considering emerging diseases. The parasitic nest fly Philornis downsi, which was introduced to the Galapagos Islands, causes considerable damage to Darwin's finches. In contrast, P. downsi has little effect on tolerant hosts, such as Galapagos mockingbirds, which increase nestling provisioning to compensate for energy lost to the parasite. Although host defenses against P. downsi have been relatively well‐studied, the importance of host‐associated microbiota in host–P. downsi interactions is unknown. In this study, an experimental manipulation of P. downsi was used to test the effect of parasitism on the fecal bacterial community (proxy for the gut) of Galapagos mockingbird and Darwin's finch nestlings. The relationships between the bacterial community and nestling provisioning or the antibody response were also determined. Galapagos mockingbirds and Darwin's finches harbor different gut bacterial communities. P. downsi decreased bacterial diversity of mockingbird nestlings, presumably in response to increased provisioning, which was negatively correlated with bacterial diversity. Lower bacterial diversity was related to lower antibody levels in mockingbirds. In contrast, P. downsi did not affect bacterial communities of finch nestlings, but bacterial diversity was negatively related to antibody levels. Overall, this study demonstrates that introduced parasites can affect host‐associated bacterial communities and that host defenses can correlate with changes in the gut microbiota.
Calibration of a single‐diode performance model without a short‐circuit temperature coefficient
Authors: Campanelli Mark B. , Hamadani Behrang H.
Published: May 2018

We calibrate the seven parameters of a single‐diode model (SDM) for photovoltaic device performance using current‐voltage (I‐V) curves measured under controlled laboratory conditions over a matrix of nominal temperature and irradiance combinations. As described in previous modeling work, we do not use a short‐circuit temperature coefficient parameter, which depends on the often unknown insolation spectrum and whose validity may be questionable. Alternatively, we employ a rigorous temperature‐dependent extension of the spectral mismatch correction. This standard correction is routinely used by calibration laboratories to measure an effective irradiance ratio (i.e., a particular ratio of short‐circuit currents) using a calibrated reference device, thereby compensating for spectral effects of the irradiance and for any difference in spectral response between the test device and reference device. The calibrated SDM predicts the device's current at any prescribed voltage, temperature, and effective irradiance, and thus can predicts power and energy production under prescribed conditions. Our approach aligns well with the matched reference cell approach to outdoor I‐V curve measurements, while clarifying the requirements of a “matched” condition for the irradiance monitoring device(s). We find evidence for significant model discrepancy in the SDM, suggesting that model improvements and measurement intercomparisons are needed.
Numerical study of polyethylene burning in counterflow: Effect of pyrolysis kinetics and composition of pyrolysis products
Authors: Karpov A. I. , Korobeinichev O. P. , Bolkisev A. A. , Shaklein A. A. , Shmakov A. G. , Paletsky A. A. , Gonchikzhapov M. B.
Published: May 2018

The burning behavior of polyethylene in the counterflow of oxidizing air has been studied numerically with a coupled model describing feedback heat and mass transfer between gas‐phase flame and polymeric solid fuel. A 2‐dimensional elliptic equation in axisymmetric formulation (revealing the cylindrical shape of the polymer sample used in the experiment) has been employed to simulate heat transfer in solid fuel, and a set of 1‐dimensional hyperbolic equations has been used to determine the solid‐to‐gas conversion degree of the pyrolysis reaction. Four sets of products compositions and two modifications for the kinetic parameters of solid fuel pyrolysis reaction have been taken into account. Gas‐phase formulation is presented by set of 1‐dimensional conservation equations for multi‐component flow with detailed kinetic mechanism of combustion. The profiles of temperature and species concentrations in the flame zone have been calculated and compared with the results of experimental study of combustion of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene. Higher hydrocarbon composition (dodecane) has been found to show the best agreement between the temperature and species concentration profiles with the measurements, especially for the low‐level mass fractions of the by‐product components—propylene, butadiene, and benzene.
Must FERC Weigh GHG Emissions in Pipeline Reviews?
Authors: Costan James M.
Published: May 2018

In U.S. Department of Transportation v. Public Citizen, the Supreme Court established an important limiting principle under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) on the extent to which a federal agency must consider indirect environmental effects in completing NEPA‐required reviews of planned agency action. It held that unless an agency has statutory authority categorically to prevent a particular environmental effect, its order cannot be viewed as a legally relevant cause of that effect, thus relieving it of any obligation to gather or consider information on the effect.
Memory assessment services and health‐related quality of life: 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Park Min Hae , Smith Sarah C. , Ritchie Craig W. , Hendriks A.A. Jolijn , Black Nick
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Our group has already demonstrated that patients' health‐related quality of life (HRQL) improves in the first 6 months after their first appointment at memory assessment services (MASs), but the sustainability of such gains is unknown. We aimed to describe changes in patients' HRQL at 12 months after their first MAS appointment and to examine associations with patient and MAS characteristics.

Methods

We collected data from 702 patients and 452 lay caregivers at the first appointment and 12 months later. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine the relationships of change in HRQL (self‐reported and proxy‐reported) with patients' characteristics and use of post‐diagnostic interventions, and multilevel models were used to analyse the relationships of HRQL with MAS characteristics.

Results

In the whole group, self‐reported HRQL improved over 12 months (+3.5 points, 95% CI 2.7 to 4.2). Among people diagnosed with dementia, improvement in HRQL was more than double that among those with mild cognitive impairment or no diagnosis. Proxy‐reported HRQL improved only in those diagnosed with dementia (+1.2 points, 95% CI 0.2 to 2.2). Changes in HRQL were not associated with any patient characteristics. The only feature of MASs associated with larger improvements in HRQL was the presence of advisory and support staff.

Conclusions

Improvements in HRQL observed at 6 months are maintained up to 1 year after the first MAS appointment, more so among those who receive a diagnosis of dementia. Continued follow‐up will determine if the improvement is even longer lasting.
Young children embody the time of others in their time judgments: The role of the theory of mind
Authors: Hallez Quentin , Droit‐Volet Sylvie
Published: May 2018

This study investigated the ability of young children to embody other people's time in their time judgments. Children aged from 4 to 7 years had to learn target durations and to reproduce them with the presentation of static pictures of individuals whose posture or body shape suggested different body states (movement, movement with object, emotion, and aging). Their acquisition of an explicit theory of mind was also assessed using the Sally–Anne false belief test. All the children produced different durations as a function of perceived body states. However, the magnitude of time distortions with perceived body states was higher in children with explicit theory of mind. Our results suggest an early implicit and automatic mechanism that allows young children to integrate other people's body states into their time judgments, to be attuned to others. However, the development of the awareness of others' mental states also increases time sensitivity to their states.

Highlights

Young children embody the time of others in their time judgments, and the development of the awareness of others' mental states improves this primitive ability.

Children were asked to reproduce target durations with static pictures of individuals whose posture suggested different body states. Their acquisition of an explicit theory of mind was also assessed using the Sally–Anne false belief test.

All the children produced different durations as a function of perceived body states. However, the magnitude of time distortions with perceived body states was higher in children with explicit theory of mind.
PATTERNS OF EXPRESSION OF KERATIN 19 AS DETECTED WITH MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES IN HUMAN BREAST TISSUES AND TUMOURS
Authors: BARTEK Jiri , TAYLOR-PAPADIMITRIOU Joyce , MILLER Naomi , MILLIS Rosemary
Published: May 2018

The monoclonal antibodies BA 16 and BA 17 directed to different epitopes on human keratin 19 have been tested for their reaction with normal breast and with benign and malignant breast lesions and associated tissue. In Western blots of gel‐separated extracts of fibroadenomas, malignant tumours or normal mammary epithelial cells, the antibodies reacted with only one component of 40 kd molecular weight. Immunoperoxidase staining of sections of normal breast tissues showed all basal cells and a few luminal cells to be unstained by the antibodies. The distribution of the unstained (keratin 19−) luminal cells in the mammary tree is consistent with that of cells with the proliferative potential to give rise to the growth of terminal ductal lobular units (TDLU) seen at pregnancy. A total of 42 benign and 141 malignant lesions were stained with the antibodies, and a clear difference in staining pattern was seen between the benign and malignant tumours. All but 3 of the benign lesions showed a heterogeneous staining pattern with 5–50% unstained cells. In contrast, the cancer cells in 106/116 invasive primary tumours and in all 21 metastatic lesions examined showed a homogeneously positive reaction with antibodies BA16 and BA17: the malignant cells in 4 cases of Paget's disease also showed homogeneously positive staining with the antibody. In the malignant tumours, the observed homogeneity in expression of keratin 19 was confined to the malignant cells; tumour‐associated normal tissue and benign proliferative lesions contained keratin 19−cells. Seven pure in situ tumours were examined and 5 showed the homogeneous pattern of staining characteristic of invasive tumours while 2 contained a high number of keratin 19− cells. A general model is presented to explain the presence of keratin 19− cells in benign proliferation and the dominance of keratin 19− cells in invasive carcinoma.
A PILOT BETA‐CAROTENE INTERVENTION TRIAL WITH INUITS USING SMOKELESS TOBACCO
Authors: STICH Hans F. , HORNBY A. Paul , DUNN Bruce P.
Published: May 2018

The frequency of exfoliated cells with micronuclei (MNC) was used to estimate the genotoxic effect of smokeless tobacco (snuff) on the oral mucosa and to follow the response to the administration of beta‐carotene (180 mg/week, given twice weekly in 6 capsules of 30 mg each). The pilot trial was carried out with Inuits in Gjoa Haven, Northwest Territories, Canada. Their traditional diet, which is rich in caribou and seal meat and liver but low in vegetables and fruits, leads to “normal” serum levels of retinol (447 ng/ml in non‐users of tobacco and 463 ng/ml in tobacco users) but low levels of beta‐carotene (57 ng/ml for non‐users of tobacco and 47 ng/ml for users). Prior to the twice‐weekly administration of beta‐carotene, the frequency of MNC was 1.87% ± 0.92 (n =23) in the mucosa of the lower gingival groove where the tobacco was usually kept. It decreased significantly (P<0.001) to 0.74% ± 0.42 following the 10‐week oral administration of beta‐carotene capsules. The frequency of MNC did not change significantly in the group receiving a placebo and in snuff users who received no treatment over the 10‐week trial period. The size and morphological appearance of the typical snuff‐related, whitish, wrinkled patches of the mucosa where the tobacco was kept was not affected by the 10‐week treatment with beta‐carotene. Similarly, no reduction was observed in the frequency of anucleated, exfoliated mucosa cells. Beta‐carotene appears to be an efficient inhibitor of MNC in the oral mucosa of snuff users who do not suffer from any vitamin A deficiency and who have “normal” levels of retinol.
CORRELATION BETWEEN GANGLIOSIDE DISTRIBUTION AND HISTOLOGICAL GRADING OF HUMAN ASTROCYTOMAS
Authors: BERRA Bruno , GAINI Sergio M. , RIBONI Laura
Published: May 2018

Changes in membrane lipid content and composition have been repeatedly detected in experimentally induced as well as spontaneous tumors. Previous data on ganglioside analysis in human astrocytomas suggested a possible correlation between their content and pattern and the histological grading of these tumors. In our study we could definitely prove this correlation: in fact the level of malignancy, passing from grade 1 to grade IV, is associated with a statistically significant increase of a ganglioside identified as ganglioside GD3. Another important modification in the ganglioside pattern of human astrocytomas is the decrease in polysialylated species with increasing level of malignancy.
AMPLIFICATION OF THEC‐MYCONCOGENE IN HUMAN PLASMA‐CELL LEUKEMIA
Authors: SÜMEGI J. , HEDBERG T. , BJÖRKHOLM M. , GODAL T. , MELLSTEDT H. , NILSSON M.G. , PERLMAN C. , KLEIN G.
Published: May 2018

We have examined primary leukemia cells from multiple myeloma and plasma‐cell leukemia patients for rearrangement, amplification and expression ofc‐myconcogene. No rearrangement or detectable amplification of thec‐myccould be found in 21 cases of multiple myeloma. In contrast, 2/3 cases of plasma‐cell leukemia showed amplification of the oncogene with concomitant higher level of expression.
TYPE‐I AND TYPE‐III HTLV ANTIBODIES IN HOSPITALIZED AND OUT‐PATIENT ZAIRIANS
Authors: GAzzow Louis , ROBERT-GUROFF Marjorie , JENNINGS Andrea , DUC DODON Madeleine , NAJBERG Grazyna , PETI M'Mangi , DE-THÉ Guy
Published: May 2018

Sera from 182 Zairians (99 females and 83 males), aged 5 to 71 years, including maternity and child care consultants, out‐patients suffering from minor injuries and patients hospitalized for tuberculosis, malaria or trauma, were analyzed for specific antibodies to HTLV‐I and HTLV‐III. Following pre‐screening by the ELISA technique, reactive sera were further analyzed for specificity to HTLV‐I or HTLV‐III antigens by competition and/or Western blotting experiments. African sera, possibly because they have higher immunoglobulin levels than US and European sera, are highly reactive in ELISA systems and confirmatory assays are essential to rule out false‐positive results. Confirmed antibody prevalence for HTLV‐I was 13.2% (II females and 13 males) and increased with age, suggesting continuous exposure to the virus throughout life. Confirmed antibody prevalence for HTLV‐III was 6.0% (8 females and 3 males) and showed a peak age range between 21 and 40 years, suggesting heterosexual transmission. Individuals positive for HTLV‐1 antibodies were not the same as individuals positive for HTLV‐ III antibodies, suggesting that infection with one virus did not increase susceptibility to infection by the other virus. Further investigations of the epidemiology and of the immunovirology of HTLV‐III in Zaire, in relation to acquired immuno‐deficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐associated pathologies, should enlighten the question of the significant percentage of HTLV‐III‐infected individuals who do not manifest symptoms of AIDS.
DIFFERENTIAL ANTIPROLIFERATIVE ACTIONS OF 2′,5′ OLIGO A TRIMER CORE AND ITS CORDYCEPIN ANALOGUE ON HUMAN TUMOR CELLS
Authors: HUBBELL Howard R. , PEQUIGNOT Edward C. , WILLIS David H. , LEE Choongeun , SUHADOLNIK Robert J.
Published: May 2018

The antiproliferative effect of 2′, 5′A3 core and 2′5′‐3′dA3 (cordycepin trimer) core was measured in 8 human tumor cell lines. Cells were treated in a dose‐response manner for 72 hr and the concentration of drug necessary to inhibit cell growth 50% (Gl50) was determined. A wide range of sensitivities to these drugs was found, even among tumors of the same histological type. The cell lines showed different sensitivities and dose‐response curves to the 2′, 5′A3 and 2′, 5′‐3′dA3 cores. Uptake studies of the 2′,5′A3 and 2′,5′‐3′ dA3 cores, using high‐pressure liquid chromatography , demonstrated that both cores were rapidly degraded in the tissue culture medium and taken up as adenosine or cordycepin, respectively. There was a direct correlation between the uptake of cordycepin and the antiproliferative effect. In contrast, there was no correlation between cell sensitivity and the uptake of the 2′,5′A3 core degradation products. Analysis of intracellular nucleosides and nucleotides indicated that differences in intracellular metabolism of adenosine might explain the different sensitivities of the various cell lines to 2′,5′A3 core. Molar equivalent concentrations of adenosine and cordycepin inhibited cell growth; however, equimolar concentrations of these nucleosides were not effective. In addition, the anti‐proliferative effect of both core compounds and their corresponding nucleosides could be potentiated by the addition of the adenosine deaminase inhibitor, deoxycoformycin . The results indicate that these cores act prodrugs and that the active metabolites are their corresponding nucleosides.
PURIFICATION AND PARTIAL AMINO ACID SEQUENCE OF RABBIT TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR
Authors: HARANAKA Katsuyuki , SATOMI Nobuko , SAKURAI Akiko , NARIUCHI Hideo
Published: May 2018

Good production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in the rabbit was obtained using Propionibacterium acnes IID 912 as a priming agent and subsequent administration of lipopolysaccharide. The physicochemical characteristics of rabbit TNF were very similar to those of murine TNF. The molecular weight of rabbit TNF was 39,000 as estimated by gel filtration, and 18,000 by SDS‐PAGE. The isoelectric point was determined as ph 4.0 by isoelectric focusing. Rabbit TNF was stable within the ph range of 5.5 to 11.0, and was stable at 56°C for 8 hr. It was digested by trypsin, pancreatic protease and elastase, but was resistant to neuraminidase . The amino acid sequence of rabbit TNF was determined as Ser‐Ala‐Ser‐Arg‐Ala‐Leu‐ …. Monoclonal antibody against rabbit TNF completely inhibited both the in vivo and in vitro activity of rabbit TNF. However, this antibody could not inhibit the action of murine TNF. Antitumor activity of rabbit TNF was shown against murine and human cancer cells in vivo and in vitro, and rabbit TNF was also capable of distinguishing malignant cells from normal cells.
MECHANISMS OF HUMAN CELL NEOPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION: RELATIONSHIP OF SPECIFIC ABNORMAL CLONE FORMATION TO PROLONGED LIFESPAN IN X‐IRRADIATED HUMAN DIPLOID FIBROBLASTS
Authors: KANO Yoshio , LITTLE John B.
Published: May 2018

A total of 9 control and 46 X‐irradiated human fibroblast cultures were followed throughout their lifespan in vitro; G‐banded karyotypes were examined at regular intervals. The lifespan (mean population doublings ) of irradiated cultures was slightly but significantly prolonged over that of controls. None of the cultures developed any changes in cell morphology characteristic of neoplastic transformation. A number of abnormal clones containing marker chromosomes emerged in the irradiated cultures. Most of these senesced early, but 2 clones were associated with a considerably increased lifespan. One of these had a deletion in the short arm of chromosome I (p22, p32), and the other had 2 specific translocations involving chromosome 22, t(I;22)(q25,q12) and t(6;22)(p22,qII). We hypothesize that the emergence of an abnormal clone with translocations in the vicinity of critical oncogenes may be associated with prolongation of life‐span and the induction of immortalization in human diploid cells, an event independent of the acquisition of other characteristics of the transformed phenotype.
Farm Water Program: Using the Water Savings Calculator
Authors: Norman C. , Walters C. , McFarlane M. , Nicholson C. , Lawler D.
Published: May 2018

Calculating the water savings expected to be realised from improvements to farm irrigation systems is an integral part of the Farm Water Program being delivered in northern Victoria, Australia. Water savings form the basis of works packages landowners undertake to improve water productivity of their irrigation systems. Through the Farm Water Program, landowners agree to transfer more than half of the water savings for environmental purposes in exchange for funding to do works. The Farm Water Program originated in 2009 following the introduction of an AU$300 million On‐Farm Irrigation Efficiency Program by the Australian government. The Goulburn Broken and North Central Catchment Management authorities, relevant Victoria government agencies and irrigation industry bodies formed a consortium to bid for funding to be used on properties across the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District of Victoria. The organisations have worked in partnership as the Farm Water Program and have successfully delivered 620 projects involving over 80 000 megalitres of water savings. The water savings calculator was developed using research findings conducted in the region and has been widely accepted and confirmed by landowners as they have developed projects. This paper describes the processes of using the water savings calculator to determine project water savings. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the Brief Sense of Community Scale among youth of color from an underserved urban community
Authors: Lardier David T. , Reid Robert J. , Garcia‐Reid Pauline
Published: May 2018

Neighborhood sense of community (SOC) is a key construct in the community psychology literature. While the research on neighborhood SOC has progressed significantly, there is a need to further validate the Brief Sense of Community Scale (BSCS) among youth. A critical area of scholarship, therefore, is to examine the factor structure of the BSCS among a cohort of adolescents, particularly from the United States. This study tested the factor structure of the BSCS among a sample of urban youth of color (N = 383) using SPSS AMOS, a structural equation modeling software. After testing the factor structure, we examined the relationships between each of the BSCS subscales and conceptually related variables (e.g., psychological empowerment, relational power, and school importance). Results from this study confirm the first‐ and second‐order factor structure of the BSCS among youth. BSCS and its underlying subscales were both correlated with one another and correlated with the intrapersonal component of psychological empowerment, relational power, and school importance. Our findings have critical implications for the field of community psychology and the development and use of the BSCS among adolescents.
Two controls of cell proliferation underlie cancer relapse
Authors: Pardee Arthur B. , Li Chiang J.
Published: May 2018

Much progress has been made in understanding the basis of cancer. Current therapies can effectively shrink tumors. But they frequently relapse, metastasize to other locations, and are lethal. Effective therapies are very much needed for preventing this relapse. Creation of a eukaryotic organism commences with one original stem cell, a fertilized egg, which multiplies and differentiates. Mutations of normal stem cells can produce cancer stem cells (CSC). These cells may resist chemotherapy, proliferate, and produce new tumors. Human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is composed of two proteins (alpha and beta) that bind to the cell membrane and activate a number of intracellular pathways. hCG has been shown to activate the proliferation of cancer stem cells. Cyclin dependent regulation of the adult cells is created in normal differentiation and replaces the hCG regulation of stem cells. To selectively kill the cancer stem cells conventional cancer therapies could be followed with a therapy based on inactivating human chronic gonadotrophin (HCG). For example chemically modified prostaglandins like RU486 prevent binding of the unmodified steroid to hCG and inactivate hCG.
Elevated transforming growth factor β signaling activation in β‐actin‐knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts enhances myofibroblast features
Authors: Xie Xin , Percipalle Piergiorgio
Published: May 2018

Signaling by the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is an essential pathway regulating a variety of cellular events. TGF‐β is produced as a latent protein complex and is required to be activated before activating the receptor. The mechanical force at the cell surface is believed to be a mechanism for latent TGF‐β activation. Using β‐actin null mouse embryonic fibroblasts as a model, in which actin cytoskeleton and cell‐surface biophysical features are dramatically altered, we reveal increased TGF‐β1 activation and the upregulation of TGF‐β target genes. In β‐actin null cells, we show evidence that the enhanced TGF‐β signaling relies on the active utilization of latent TGF‐β1 in the cell culture medium. TGF‐β signaling activation contributes to the elevated reactive oxygen species production, which is likely mediated by the upregulation of Nox4. The previously observed myofibroblast phenotype of β‐actin null cells is inhibited by TGF‐β signaling inhibition, while the expression of actin cytoskeleton genes and angiogenic phenotype are not affected. Together, our study shows a scenario that the alteration of the actin cytoskeleton and the consequent changes in cellular biophysical features lead to changes in cell signaling process such as TGF‐β activation, which in turn contributes to the enhanced myofibroblast phenotype.
Modeling and simulation of DC and microwave characteristics of AlInN(AlGaN)/AlN/GaN MOSHEMTs with different gate lengths
Authors: Amarnath G. , Panda D.K. , Lenka T.R.
Published: May 2018

In this paper, direct current (DC) and microwave characteristics are modeled and analyzed for AlInN(AlGaN)/AlN/GaN metal‐oxide‐semiconductor high electron mobility transistors with different gate lengths. The 2‐dimensional electron gas sheet charge density (ns) model is developed by considering polarization effect and flat‐band voltage with lowest occupied energy level (E0) in the quantum well. The drain current, transconductance, and gate charge model is developed by incorporating approximation of ns as proposed in this paper. Then, the cut‐off frequency is calculated from the transconductance and gate capacitance model. The analytical model results are in good agreement with Technology Computer Aided Design simulation and experimental results from literatures for DC and microwave characteristics for the proposed gate lengths (0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 μm). From these characteristics, it is also observed that AlInN/AlN/GaN MOSHEMT shows superior DC and radio frequency performance as compared with AlGaN/AlN/GaN MOSHEMT. AlInN/AlN/GaN MOSHEMT produces high drain current (2.34 A/mm) and high cut‐off frequency (124 GHz) at smaller gate length.
Critical success factors for the implementation of enterprise systems: A literature review
Authors: Loonam John , Kumar Vikas , Mitra Amit , Abd Razak Azley
Published: May 2018

Since their inception into work organizations, enterprise systems (ES) have proved challenging for many organizations to implement successfully. This study seeks to advance our understanding of the ES success literature by focusing on Harzing Journal ranked articles only that focus on the issue of “critical success factors” for ES implementation. The authors identify 34 key critical success factors that can provide both scholars and practitioners with a more holistic view of ES success.
An empirical investigation of business‐to‐business e‐commerce adoption and its impact on SMEs competitive advantage: The case of Egyptian manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Hamad Haseba , Elbeltagi Ibrahim , El‐Gohary Hatem
Published: May 2018

Business‐to‐business (B2B) e‐commerce adoption by Egyptian manufacturing SMEs is an important tool to gain competitive advantage. It is important to understand the levels of B2B e‐commerce adoption among Egyptian manufacturing SMEs and the different factors that influence each level of such adoption. The Technology–Organization–Environment framework factors have a significant impact on the different levels of B2B e‐commerce adoption by Egyptian manufacturing SMEs. Technology–Organization–Environment framework factors have an indirect impact on Egyptian manufacturing SMEs competitive advantage.
Breaking new grounds: Deployment of electronic data capture (EDC) for clinical trials in China
Authors: Sarpong David , Tjong‐A‐Hung Ivan , Botchie David
Published: May 2018

Managerial understanding of the organizing logics and deployment of electronic data capture (EDC) in clinical trials is fundamental to the capture of value from the system. We examine the deployment of EDC in clinical trials in China. We argue that managerial understanding of the organizing logics of EDC system is fundamental to the deployment and subsequent capture of value from the system. We identified what we call the rhetoric of legitimation EDC, and the active separation of knowledge forms of the old system as salient discursive practices that has the potential to enable (or impede) value capture from EDC deployment.
Sous‐vide technique as an alternative to traditional cooking methods in the context of antioxidant properties of Brassica vegetables
Authors: Florkiewicz Adam , Socha Robert , Filipiak‐Florkiewicz Agnieszka , Topolska Kinga
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Vegetables are important components of the human diet. The method used to process them is crucial with respect to the nutritional quality of the ready‐to‐eat product. The present study aimed to assess whether the sous‐vide method could represent an alternative for the traditional cooking of Brassica vegetables.

RESULTS

The sous‐vide method appeared to be the most advantageous technique in relation to the preservation of vitamin C, both directly after processing and during the storage of processed vegetables. Among the studied phytochemicals, p‐coumaric and gallic acids were found to be the most stable out of all the vegetables cooked by this method.

CONCLUSION

The sous‐vide method should be considered as an optimal technique with respect to the thermal treatment of Brassica vegetables. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Quality of ready‐to‐eat swordfish fillets inoculated with Lactobacillus paracasei IMPC 2.1
Authors: Giribaldi Marzia , Gai Francesco , Peiretti Pier Giorgio , Ortoffi Marco Francesco , Lavermicocca Paola , Lonigro Stella Lisa , Valerio Francesca , Cavallarin Laura
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

The quality of marinated ready‐to‐eat (RTE) swordfish fillets, with or without inoculation with the probiotic strain Lactobacillus paracasei IMPC 2.1, was assessed over 3 months of refrigerated storage at 4 °C. RTE probiotic and control fish fillets were sampled after 7, 14, 30, 60, and 90 days of storage. Microbiological tests were performed, and fatty acid (FA) profiles and malondialdehyde content were examined. Microbiological counts, including total viable count, lactic acid bacteria (LAB), yeasts, moulds, Enterobacteriaceae, and Pseudomonadaceae were determined.

RESULTS

Inoculation successfully ensured the growth of the probiotic strain and prevented the growth of other LAB. The two RTE products showed significant differences in lipid profile and lipid oxidation during storage. In particular, inoculation with L. paracasei IMPC 2.1 increased the amount of polyunsaturated FAs and limited the amount of monounsaturated FAs and oleic acid, as well as lipid oxidation. It thus represents an interesting strategy for preserving the chemical quality of fish fillets and an alternative means of delivering probiotics.

CONCLUSION

Probiotic inoculation with Lactobacillus paracasei seemed to delay lipid oxidation of the fish flesh and increase the retention of polyunsaturated FAs, suggesting a potential application for this strain in the seafood industry. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Compositional and structural dynamics of the ruminal microbiota in dairy heifers and its relationship to methane production
Authors: Cunha Camila S , Marcondes Marcos I , Veloso Cristina M , Mantovani Hilário C , Pereira Luiz Gustavo R , Tomich Thierry R , Dill‐McFarland Kimberly A , Suen Garret
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Heifers emit more enteric methane (CH4) than adult cows and these emissions tend to decrease per unit feed intake as they age. However, common mitigation strategies like expensive high‐quality feeds are not economically feasible for these pre‐production animals. Given its direct role in CH4 production, altering the rumen microbiota is another potential avenue for reducing CH4 production by ruminants. However, to identify effective microbial targets, a better understanding of the rumen microbiota and its relationship to CH4 production across heifer development is needed.

RESULTS

Here, we investigate the relationship between rumen bacterial, archaeal, and fungal communities as well as CH4 emissions and a number of production traits in prepubertal (PP), pubertal (PB), and pregnant heifers (PG). Overall, PG heifers emitted the most CH4, followed by PB and PP heifers. The bacterial genus Acetobacter and the archaeal genus Methanobrevibacter were positively associated, while Eubacterium and Methanosphaera were negatively associated with raw CH4 production by heifers. When corrected for dietary intake, both Eubacterium and Methanosphaera remained negatively associated with CH4 production.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that Eubacterium and Methanosphaera represent likely targets for CH4 mitigation efforts in heifers as they were negatively associated with CH4 production and not significantly associated with production traits. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
A “World Champion” in Energy Efficiency
Authors: Hesse Tim , Zaske Sebastian
Published: May 2018

In terms of efficiency, laser welding has long been a major contender. With the launch of a new generation of beam source and processes that bring improved productivity, Trumpf has now made it into a real champion.
Cooling Solutions for Laser Applications
Authors: Zobler Markus , Mantwill Eike
Published: May 2018

In cutting, welding, and additive manufacturing, lasers are a universal tool. To make sure that a laser operates reliably, its components must be cooled as the generation of the laser light creates heat. If this heat is not discharged, both the laser and the workpiece will heat up. Heat can diminish the accuracy of the laser beam and even deform parts of the laser. To prevent temperature fluctuations and damages, laser manufacturers apply cooling units, called chillers. Based on the operating principle of such chillers, this article explains why it is well worth for laser manufacturers to consider suitable cooling of individual elements already in the development phase.
Season‐specific trends and linkages of nitrogen and oxygen cycles in Chesapeake Bay
Authors: Testa Jeremy M. , Kemp W. Michael , Boynton Walter R.
Published: May 2018

A three‐decade time series of solute concentrations was combined with a box‐modeling system to analyze long‐term trends in the concentration, production, and transport of dissolved inorganic nitrogen species along the mainstem axis of Chesapeake Bay. Water‐ and salt‐balance calculations associated with box‐modeling provided regional, seasonal, and interannual estimates of net advective and nonadvective transport and net biogeochemical production rates for oxygen and dissolved nitrogen. The strongest decadal trends were observed for decreasing late‐summer ammonium concentrations in bottom layers from brackish to polyhaline bay regions. Contemporaneous trends of increasing late‐summer bottom‐layer dissolved oxygen (O2) concentration were consistent with the observed NH4+ patterns, suggesting that increasing dissolved O2 levels may also reflect declining bottom respiration and drive nitrogen loss via increased rates of coupled nitrification–denitrification. Significant (but weaker) trends of increasing nitrate plus nitrite (NO2+3−) concentration and net production were consistent with the notion that increased nitrification may be stimulated by increasing dissolved O2 concentrations. Sorting bottom water NH4+ and NO2+3− net production rates into two pools (before and after the year 2000) revealed that general seasonal patterns were similar, but recent NH4+ net production rates were consistently lower and NO2+3− and NO2− rates higher in summer and fall compared to earlier years, especially in the middle Bay regions. We conclude that late‐season replenishment of oxygen associated with declining nutrient loads induced a negative feedback process, whereby decreased hypoxia suppressed NH4+ recycling and created conditions favorable for additional nitrogen loss via coupled nitrification–denitrification.
Supplemental Parenteral Nutrition: Review of the Literature and Current Nutrition Guidelines
Authors: Russell Mary K. , Wischmeyer Paul E.
Published: May 2018

Parenteral nutrition has significantly and positively affected the clinical care of patients for >50 years. The 2016 Society of Critical Care Medicine/American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition guidelines for the provision of nutrition support to adult patients emphasize the role of this therapy in attenuating the stress response and impacting the immune response, among other benefits. Malnutrition in hospitalized patients remains a major problem; it is underdiagnosed and often undertreated. Malnourished patients are more likely to suffer from infections, pneumonia, and pressure ulcers, among other serious concerns. Enteral nutrition is considered first‐line therapy in many of these patients; however, data suggest that many patients receive far less than prescribed amounts for a variety of reasons. Supplemental parenteral nutrition (SPN), used to augment nutrition support of appropriate adult patients and better meet nutrition goals, is not often used in the United States. The purposes of this review are to highlight selected studies in the literature that support and question the use and value of SPN in adult patients; propose consideration of 2 definitions for SPN, “early” and “traditional”; and encourage clinicians to consider SPN for appropriate patients.
Try new strategies for creating on‐campus professional development
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2018

Although you know the value of providing your staff with quality professional development opportunities, you also know the challenges of limited funding and scheduling conflicts.
Neurological sleep medicine: a case note audit from a specialist clinic
Authors: Romiszewski Stephanie , Croft Declan , Veale Joanne , Matthews Louise , Ryland Helen , May Felix , Zeman Adam
Published: May 2018

On average, humans sleep for a third of their lives, and sleep disorders are common and treatable. However, services for most sleep disorders are highly variable across the UK, and sleep medicine is neglected in the medical curriculum. We report the findings of an audit of patients with neurological sleep disorders seen in a combined cognitive neurology and sleep disorder clinics over a seven‐year period, 75 with hypersomnias, 67 with parasomnias and 39 with insomnia. Also, the results of a pilot of a cognitive behavioural therapy service for insomnia undertaken in the same population are analysed.
Episodic loss of consciousness: how genetic testing points to diagnosis
Authors: Milburn‐McNulty Philip , Larner Andrew J
Published: May 2018

The differential diagnosis of episodic loss of consciousness, lying chiefly between syncope and epilepsy, can be challenging and potentially confusing, particularly in the absence of a reliable witness account. We report a patient with episodic loss of consciousness in whom targeted genetic testing contributed to diagnosis.
Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of polyisobutylene‐based imido‐amine‐type dispersants containing exclusively non‐nucleophilic nitrogen
Authors: Holbrook Travis P. , Masson Georgeta M. , Storey Robson F.
Published: May 2018

Lubricating oils for gasoline and diesel engines are formulated to include amphiphilic dispersants for soot particle stabilization and prevention of particle aggregation. Primary and secondary amines used within the polar group of traditional dispersants provide basic nitrogen, which is able to neutralize acidic by‐products from combustion and does not contribute to sulfated ash. However, these active‐hydrogen‐containing amines present significant problems for fluoroelastomer seals and metals in terms of degradation and corrosion. Polyisobutylene (PIB)‐based dispersants containing only tertiary amines, intended to remediate these problems, were synthesized from primary‐bromide‐terminated PIB, 1‐(2‐aminoethyl)piperazine, and an anhydride such as phthalic anhydride. Intermediates and final dispersant molecules were characterized by NMR, GPC, TGA, and MALDI‐TOF MS. Using Langmuir adsorption studies with carbon black as a surrogate for soot, a direct dependence on the affinity for adsorption of the dispersant with respect to the number of phenyl rings present was identified. Performance testing revealed increased compatibility of the dispersants, including limited degradation of seals and corrosion of metals, while retaining total base number. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 1657–1675
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the cytolytic anti‐CD38 human monoclonal antibody TAK‐079 in monkey – model assisted preparation for the first in human trial
Authors: Roepcke Stefan , Plock Nele , Yuan Josh , Fedyk Eric R. , Lahu Gezim , Zhao Lin , Smithson Glennda
Published: May 2018

We are studying the fully human, IgG1λ cytolytic monoclonal antibody TAK‐079, which binds CD38. CD38 is expressed on plasma and natural killer (NK) cells constitutively and upregulated on subsets of B and T lymphocytes upon activation. TAK‐079 cross‐reacts with CD38 expressed by cynomolgus monkeys and depletes subsets of NK, B, and T cells. Therefore, safety and function of TAK‐079 was evaluated in this species, prior to clinical development, using bioanalytical, and flow cytometry assays. We pooled the data from eight studies in healthy monkeys (dose range 0.03‐100 mg/kg) and developed mathematical models that describe the pharmacokinetics and the exposure–effect relationship for NK cells, B cells, and T cells. NK cell depletion was identified as the most sensitive pharmacodynamic effect of TAK‐079. It was adequately described with a turnover model (C50 = 27.5 μg/mL on depletion rate) and complete depletion was achieved with an IV dose of 0.3 mg/kg. Intermediate effects on T‐cell counts were described with a direct response model (C50 = 11.9 μg/mL) and on B‐cell counts with a 4‐transit‐compartment model (C50 = 19.8 μg/mL on depletion rate). Our analyses substantiate the observation that NK, B and T cells are cleared by TAK‐079 at different rates and required different time spans to replete the blood compartment. The models were used to simulate pharmacokinetic and cell depletion profiles in humans after applying a straightforward scaling approach for monoclonal antibodies in preparation for the first‐in‐human clinical trial.
Diagnosing and managing age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: May 2018

NICE's new guideline on diagnosing and managing age‐related macular degeneration in adults (NG82) aims to improve the speed at which people are diagnosed and treated to prevent sight loss. This article provides a summary of the guidance.
Multiple pulmonary Aspergillus fumigatus cysts and cavities that disappeared with anti‐fungal agents
Authors: Saitou Miwako , Suzuki Tomoko , Niitsuma Katsunao
Published: May 2018

A 26‐year‐old man with a 10‐year history of asthma was admitted to our hospital with a six‐week history of dry cough and slight fever. We observed the left pneumothorax with multiple cysts and cavities and performed partial cystectomy of the left upper lung. Y‐shaped mycelia were detected in the resected tissue, and Aspergillus fumigatus was cultured. Pulmonary aspergillosis was diagnosed from the histopathological and bacteriological findings, and the patient demonstrated positive immunological reactions to A. fumigatus. After administration of an intravenous antifungal agent for one month and an oral antifungal agent for another three months, all cysts and cavities disappeared. Aspergillus infection usually results from saprophytic growth within pre‐existing cavities. In this case, multiple cysts and cavities may have been caused by Aspergillus, possibly through a check‐valve mechanism.