bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the environmental performance of producing soil and surfaces through industrial symbiosis
Authors: Martin Michael
Published: August 2019

Industrial symbiosis (IS), where different entities collaborate in the management of energy, utilities, materials, or services, has been identified as an approach to improve resource efficiency and circularity in industry. This article assesses the environmental performance of an IS network with firms involved in waste management, soil, surfaces, paper, lumber, and energy. The aim is to highlight the environmental performance of an IS network and pay particular attention to the improved performance for products in the IS network. Life cycle assessment is used to compare the current IS network with a reference scenario and a potential future development. The results suggest that there are significant benefits from the IS network. Large reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and abiotic resource depletion were identified. Furthermore, large reductions in local impacts, namely eutrophication and acidification impacts are illustrated. It was shown that all firms in the network benefit from the synergies involved, with a large share of the benefits stemming from the facilitated exchanges with the waste management company. The replacement of conventional products and energy streams with bio‐based counterparts from within the network is of significant importance. Finally, the results point to the importance of the facilitation of by‐product synergies, and the significant value this creates in the region, with large potential to improve the environmental performance of firms and their products.
Perceptions of Home Insurance and Policy Directions: Comparing Mexican Americans and Non‐Hispanic White Americans
Authors: Zolfagharian Mohammadali , Hasan Fuad , Motie Golnaz B. , Squires Gregory D.
Published: August 2019

With prior research on home insurance largely focused on supply side practices, we know little about demand side attributes of this market, especially about consumer perceptions of insurance. This article demonstrates that, despite seemingly more equitable industry practices, ethnic homeowners (Mexican Americans in this study), relative to the majority White population, have a greater tendency to view home insurance as a cost burden (as opposed to coverage against potential damages and injuries) and, hence, are more vulnerable to living with minimal or no home insurance coverage. The findings suggest that this disparity is attributable to cultural differences rooted in diverse structural and institutional circumstances in which ethnic homeowners often find themselves situated. The role of ethnic identity is salient even after accounting for personal, household, property, mortgage, and natural calamity factors. New directions for policy are proposed to address the situation by informing and empowering vulnerable consumers.
Everyday life experiences in families with a child with kidney disease
Authors: Agerskov Hanne , Thiesson Helle C. , Pedersen Birthe D.
Published: August 2019

Background

Chronic kidney disease in children is a complex medical and psychosocial disease with factors that differ from the adult disease in significant ways. Among parents, there is uncertainty about disease progression and lack of confidence in caring for the child. The disease has an impact on the emotional and social well‐being of the whole family.

Objectives

To investigate everyday life experiences from the perspectives of members of a family that includes a child with end stage renal disease.

Method

The study took a phenomenological‐hermeneutical approach. Semi‐structured individual interviews were conducted with seven fathers, seven mothers, five children with kidney disease and five siblings. The data were analysed using Ricoeur's theory of narrative and interpretation, on three levels: naïve reading, structural analysis, critical interpretation and discussion.

Results

It was significant that everyday life and caring for the child were structured around parents’ energy reserves. The disease left its mark and changes to daily life caused anxiety, especially for siblings. The search for normalcy was significant and, although the families coped with conditions around the disease, it could be a challenge.

Conclusion

Family members feel vulnerable and concerned and need attention, support and care. Limitations in everyday life cause a dilemma, and the well‐being of one family member has an impact on the well‐being of the family as a whole. Implications for practice: Health care professionals should focus on the impact of the family's experiences and needs, and the parents’ role in family relationships, to support the entire family unit.
Acoustic communication during reproduction in the basal gobioid Amur sleeper and the putative sound production mechanism
Authors: Horvatić S. , Malavasi S. , Parmentier E. , Marčić Z. , Buj I. , Mustafić P. , Ćaleta M. , Smederevac‐Lalić M. , Skorić S. , Zanella D.
Published: August 2019

Gobioids (Gobiiformes: Gobioidei) are a large group of vocal fishes with four sound types documented during aggressive or reproductive interactions in 23 species. Most attention has been dedicated to sound production in Gobiidae and Gobionellidae, while acoustic communications in other phylogenetically distant gobioid groups have been neglected. Odontobutidae, a basal family within the gobioids, is a poorly studied fish assemblage, with sounds documented in only a single species. The goal of this study was to record and describe the acoustic signals produced by Perccottus glenii (Odontobutidae) under laboratory conditions, with particular focus on the reproductive phase (courtship and pre‐spawning), and to provide insight into the anatomical basis of the sound emission mechanism. We recorded two acoustically different call types, thumps and tonal sounds. Thumps were low‐frequency sounds (~95 Hz) with an irregular waveform, produced by males during both the courtship and pre‐spawning phases. Thumps were frequently organized in long trains, a thump burst, composed from approximately five thumps and lasting over 10 s. Tonal sounds were short vocalizations (~90 ms) produced only during courtship interactions, characterized by a sinusoidal oscillogram and a single frequency peak (~120 Hz). Additionally, anatomical examination focusing on the pectoral girdle identified the muscles that could be responsible for sound emission. The levator pectoralis muscle, originating on the neurocranium and attaching to the cleithral bone, is separated into three bundles: a pars lateralis superficialis, a pars lateralis profundus and a pars medialis. These results expand the knowledge about gobioid vocal behaviour and underline the importance of acoustic communication within this group of fish. Odontobutidae is a sister group to rest of the gobioids, and therefore, our results have significant impact for future comparative studies dealing with sound production.
Hepatitis C virus elimination in Indonesia: Epidemiological, cost and cost‐effectiveness modelling to advance advocacy and strategic planning
Authors: Trickey Adam , Hiebert Lindsey , Perfect Chase , Thomas Caroline , El Kaim Jean Luc , Vickerman Peter , Schȕtte Carl , Hecht Robert
Published: August 2019

Backgrounds & Aims

In Indonesia 1.9 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), but a national strategic plan for elimination has not yet been developed, despite the availability of low‐cost treatments which could save many lives. We used epidemiological and cost modelling to estimate targets and resource requirements of a national elimination program and explore the potential impact and cost‐effectiveness.

Methods

To model the HCV epidemic, we used a dynamic model, parameterised with Indonesia‐specific data, accounting for disease progression, injecting drug use and demographics. Future scale‐up scenarios were designed for 2018‐2050 to capture possible policy choices. Costs of an initial 5‐year national strategy and of long‐term elimination were estimated for the most feasible scenario, as agreed with government and local partners. Cost savings from reduced drug and diagnostics prices were also estimated. The cost‐effectiveness of baseline predictions and those with drug price reductions were compared to the no treatment scenario.

Results

Elimination by 2045, considered the most feasible path to scale‐up, would prevent 739 000 new infections and avert 158 000 HCV‐related deaths. The costs would be $5.6 billion (USD) using baseline prices but could fall to $2.7 billion if price reductions for HCV drugs and diagnostics are secured. With these price reductions, the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio for a 2045 elimination program would be cost‐effective at $300 (USD) per year of life saved vs the no treatment scenario.

Conclusions

This study has underpinned advocacy efforts to secure Indonesian government commitment to HCV elimination, and provides further inputs for HCV strategic planning efforts.
Changes in plasma circulating microvesicles in patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis after treatment with direct‐acting antivirals
Authors: Campello Elena , Radu Claudia M. , Zanetto Alberto , Bulato Cristiana , Shalaby Sarah , Spiezia Luca , Franceschet Enrica , Burra Patrizia , Russo Francesco P. , Simioni Paolo
Published: August 2019

Background & Aims

The eradication of Hepatitis C (HCV) infection by direct‐acting antiviral (DAAs) agents has been linked to an amelioration of liver synthesis and regression of fibrosis. Although changes in number and type of circulating microvesicles (MVs) have been reported in cirrhosis, conclusive data on the effect of DAAs treatment on MVs profile in HCV cirrhotic patients remain scarce.

Methods

We measured the levels of endothelial, platelet and hepatocyte MVs, as well as MVs‐expressing versican core protein (VCAN+) in patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis at baseline, end of treatment (EOT), at 12, 24 and 48 weeks (W) after EOT by new generation flow cytometry.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients were enrolled (86% Child's A). MVs were increased at EOT vs baseline, though only platelet MVs revealed a statistically significant difference (P < .01). MV levels did not change significantly after EOT notwithstanding a steady downward trend towards baseline levels. Conversely, VCAN + MVs dropped significantly at EOT (P < .001) and remained low throughout the follow‐up. Hepatocyte MVs significantly correlated with liver stiffness (r = .40, P = .0021). Eight composite outcomes occurred during the 1‐year follow‐up: three portal vein thromboses (PVTs), two hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and three liver decompensation. Child's B, the presence of F2 oesophageal varices (OR for interaction 19.2 [95% CI 1.45‐253.7], P = .023) and platelet MVs (OR 1.026 [95% CI 1.00‐1.05, P = .023) correlated significantly with clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

VCAN + MVs appear to mirror the profibrotic status of the cirrhotic disease; hepatocyte MVs correlate with liver stiffness and increased platelet MV levels could be associated with a worse clinical outcome.
Rev. John G. Lansing (1851–1906) on Preaching the Gospel to Muslims
Authors: Zdanowski Jerzy
Published: August 2019

At the turn of the twentieth century, the interest of American Protestant churches in foreign missions increased dramatically. “The evangelization of the world in this generation” became a powerful slogan and a new understanding of the Great Commission or the instruction of the resurrected Jesus Christ to his disciples, was among factors that “revolutionized American missionary movement.”1 This article presents the views on Islam of Rev. John G. Lansing from the New Brunswick Seminary of the Reformed Church of America,2 and suggests that Lansing changed the view that Islam is not approachable and awakened the imagination of his disciples concerning the land of Islam and its inhabitants as people to whom the words of the gospel should be addressed. Although the Arabian Mission established by Lansing in 1889 finally failed in ensuring mass conversions of Muslims, it did result in a great discovery of Islam by the missionaries.
Exploring the Bible Through Qurʾānic Lens: An Analysis of Ibn Qutayba’s Approach in Dalāʾil Nubuwwa
Authors: Sanusi Azmi Ahmad
Published: August 2019

Persistent disputation from non‐Muslim communities arguing against the veracity of Muḥammad’s prophethood has undoubtedly served to contribute to the steady growth of Dalāʾil literature at the formative period of Islam. Besides intensifying Dalāʾil works with evidentiary miracles to prove the authenticity of Muhammad’s prophethood, one of the popular styles of argument employed by the scholars of Islam is adducing Qurʾānic and Biblical verses and its hermeneutic to substantiate the prophethood of Muhammad. In the ninth century, Ibn Qutayba composed his Dalāʾil Nubuwwa with a unique approach in which he utilised the content of the Qurʾān to explore the meaning of the Bible. This study seeks to explore the novelty of his approach in utilising the Qurʾān to elucidate Biblical passages. The study employs a descriptive, comparative and critical approach, in which it analyses and extracts the author’s original approach in explaining the legitimacy of Muḥammad’s prophethood. The study in its finding affirms that Ibn Qutayba invented an innovative approach, exploring the meaning of scripture previously understood exclusively through Judaeo‐Christian theological methodology alone. This is where the novelty of his approach is distinguished.
Coordinated and rapid whole‐plant systemic stomatal responses
Authors: Devireddy Amith R. , Arbogast Jimmie , Mittler Ron
Published: August 2019

See also the Commentary on this article by McLachlan, 225: 5–6.
The China–Japan–Korea Trilateral Free Trade Agreement: Why Did Trade Negotiations Stall?
Authors: Zhang Muhui
Published: August 2019

Launched in 2013, the China–Japan–Korea Free Trade Agreement (CJKFTA) negotiations have slowed in recent years. The three countries have convened at 14 rounds of negotiations but failed to make any substantial breakthrough. A number of previous studies have presented a crisis‐driven approach in explaining the progress of the CJKFTA, and argue that the accomplished China–Korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA) will accelerate the CJKFTA negotiation. This study questions optimism over the CJKFTA, and investigates the reasons for the stalemate of ongoing negotiations. It does so by considering three sets of factors that have stalled the negotiation – economic interdependence, domestic politics, and industry interest groups – in addition to international politics/national FTA policies. First, the trilateral economic interdependence shows a downward trend in recent years and has weakened the necessity of having a trilateral FTA. Second, domestic sectoral interests remain highly divergent over a potential CJKFTA; opposition from loser groups in Japan remains strong, and the majority of the Korean business world still regard the utility of an accomplished CKFTA more highly than an accomplished CJKFTA. Finally, the three countries have failed to narrow the gaps during past negotiations because no party views the CJKFTA as a top priority, nor wishes to take the leadership. China does not want a high‐level CJKFTA; Japan's lack of political incentive and Korea's cautious “wait and see” stance have also led to a stalemate of the negotiations. In consequence, this article delivers a relatively pessimistic vision for the CJKFTA negotiation in the near future.
Does the Structural Power of Business Matter in State Capitalism?: Evidence from China's Oil Politics under Xi Jinping
Authors: Wang Xiaoguang
Published: August 2019

Based on the background of Chinese oil politics under Xi Jinping, this article studies the “structural power of business” to test the concept within the economic system of state capitalism. Many elements of structural power discourse are valid, such as the political influence of business, the role of information‐expertise, the role of business competitiveness and fluidity, and the effect of external factors. However, the dominance and mechanism of the structural power of Chinese national oil companies presents differently because of the unique state‐business relations in the Chinese oil sector.
Generation of a multiplex mutagenesis population via pooled CRISPR‐Cas9 in soya bean
Authors: Bai Mengyan , Yuan Juehui , Kuang Huaqin , Gong Pingping , Li Suning , Zhang Zhihui , Liu Bo , Sun Jiafeng , Yang Maoxiang , Yang Lan , Wang Dong , Song Shikui , Guan Yuefeng
Published: August 2019

The output of genetic mutant screenings in soya bean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] has been limited by its paleopolypoid genome. CRISPR‐Cas9 can generate multiplex mutants in crops with complex genomes. Nevertheless, the transformation efficiency of soya bean remains low and, hence, remains the major obstacle in the application of CRISPR‐Cas9 as a mutant screening tool. Here, we report a pooled CRISPR‐Cas9 platform to generate soya bean multiplex mutagenesis populations. We optimized the key steps in the screening protocol, including vector construction, sgRNA assessment, pooled transformation, sgRNA identification and gene editing verification. We constructed 70 CRISPR‐Cas9 vectors to target 102 candidate genes and their paralogs which were subjected to pooled transformation in 16 batches. A population consisting of 407 T0 lines was obtained containing all sgRNAs at an average mutagenesis frequency of 59.2%, including 35.6% lines carrying multiplex mutations. The mutation frequency in the T1 progeny could be increased further despite obtaining a transgenic chimera. In this population, we characterized gmric1/gmric2 double mutants with increased nodule numbers and gmrdn1‐1/1‐2/1‐3 triple mutant lines with decreased nodulation. Our study provides an advanced strategy for the generation of a targeted multiplex mutant population to overcome the gene redundancy problem in soya bean as well as in other major crops.
Aquaculture of marine ornamental fish: overview of the production trends and the role of academia in research progress
Authors: Pouil Simon , Tlusty Michael F. , Rhyne Andrew L. , Metian Marc
Published: August 2019

The marine ornamental fish trade is expanding and still largely relies on wild fish from tropical coral reef ecosystems. There are unknowns in the wild harvest so that the sustainability of marine ornamental fish trade can therefore be questioned with aquaculture being perceived as a responsible alternative for the procurement of these ornamental marine fish. However, there are still many technical constraints that hinder its development. These blocks require additional coordination with the outcome being an accelerated development of ornamental marine fish production. The main objective of this review was to better identify, understand and discuss the role and the impacts of academic research in the production of marine ornamental fish through qualitative and quantitative approaches. To do so, 222 selected scientific publications (including peer‐reviewed articles, conferences articles, thesis and reports) from the literature available to date were analysed and outcomes were framed in perspective of the total number of captive‐bred species. Results of the meta‐analyses indicate that academic research has led to significant advances in the breeding of some of the more difficult to breed species. While it has a leading role in conservation, its advance of techniques still lags behind private companies and hobbyists. Partnerships promoting synergistic activities between academic research institutes and the private sector (aquaculture farms and public aquariums) are important to optimize future ornamental marine fish production.
Judaism, Christianity, and Islam: The problem of “Abrahamic religions” and the possibilities of comparison
Authors: Boyd Samuel L.
Published: August 2019

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have long been known as “Abrahamic religions,” and the comparative study of these three religious traditions has occupied scholars focusing on a variety of time periods from antiquity to modernity. Recent research has begun to question, or at least to complicate, the label “Abrahamic religions,” opening up a host of new avenues of inquiry when examining the history and development of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In this article, I explore the relationship between popular and scholarly modes of understanding these religions. I examine the role of religious competition as a framework through which to research Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. I offer concluding thoughts regarding why this framework is beneficial not only to scholars of religion but also to lay readers for understanding why this field of comparative scholarship matters to them.
Postural changes from ventilatory gas exchange in pulmonary hypertension: Is it a practical solution to a complex question?
Authors: Rivera‐Lebron Belinda N. , Cruz Morel Karla J. , Risbano Michael G.
Published: August 2019

See related Article
The governance of risk management: The importance of directors’ independence and financial knowledge
Authors: Dionne Georges , Chun Olfa Maalaoui , Triki Thouraya
Published: August 2019

We test the effects of the independence and financial knowledge of directors on risk management and firm value in the gold mining industry. Our original hand‐collected database on directors’ financial education, accounting background, and financial experience allows us to measure the effect of financial knowledge on risk management activities. We show that directors’ financial knowledge increases firm value through the risk management channel. This effect is strengthened by the independence of the directors on the board and on the audit committee. Extending the dimension of education, we show that, following unexpected shocks to gold prices, firms with financially educated directors are more effective in hedging than average firms in the industry. Firms that hedge more also attracts highly educated directors on their board and audit committee. As a policy implication, our results suggest adding the experience and education dimensions to the 2002 Sarbanes–Oxley Act and New York Stock Exchange requirements for better governance.
Soliciting feedback on the wards: a peer‐to‐peer workshop
Authors: Yau Bernice N , Chen Alissa S , Ownby Allison R , Hsieh Peggy , Ford Christine D
Published: August 2019

Background

For medical students, soliciting feedback is a critical but difficult skill that merits proper training. This skill may be taught effectively by peers who have experienced challenges with feedback on the wards.

Methods

Two medical students developed and taught a workshop on feedback skills. The workshop was presented to 248 third‐year students. The workshop trained students in soliciting, receiving and responding to feedback through interactive discussions of case scenarios. Students were given pre‐ and post‐surveys to assess changes in their confidence in and attitudes towards the feedback process.

Results

There were statistically significant increases in students' likeliness to solicit feedback and confidence in their ability to solicit feedback. Students' view on the importance of feedback did not change. The most commonly cited barriers to feedback were time constraints, fear of negative feedback, emotions and skills when asking for feedback, and student–mentor relationship. The content the students valued the most was management of internal triggers to negative feedback. Students noted that the peer‐to‐peer format, case scenarios, and interactive questions were strengths of the workshop.

Discussion

Although medical students recognise the importance of feedback, they often lack the confidence and skills to obtain quality feedback. A peer‐to‐peer workshop on soliciting, receiving, and responding to feedback can be an effective method to improve students' confidence and skills in this area. More research needs to be done to conclude if this workshop increases the instances of students soliciting high‐quality feedback on the wards and improves clinical performance.
Higher expression of the strawberry xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase genes FvXTH9 and FvXTH6 accelerates fruit ripening
Authors: Witasari Lucia D. , Huang Fong‐Chin , Hoffmann Thomas , Rozhon Wilfried , Fry Stephen C. , Schwab Wilfried
Published: August 2019

Fruit softening in Fragaria (strawberry) is proposed to be associated with the modification of cell wall components such as xyloglucan by the action of cell wall‐modifying enzymes. This study focuses on the in vitro and in vivo characterization of two recombinant xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolases (XTHs) from Fragaria vesca, FvXTH9 and FvXTH6. Mining of the publicly available F. vesca genome sequence yielded 28 putative XTH genes. FvXTH9 showed the highest expression level of all FvXTHs in a fruit transcriptome data set and was selected with the closely related FvXTH6 for further analysis. To investigate their role in fruit ripening in more detail, the coding sequences of FvXTH9 and FvXTH6 were cloned into the vector pYES2 and expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. FvXTH9 and FvXTH6 displayed xyloglucan endotransglucosylase (XET) activity towards various acceptor substrates using xyloglucan as the donor substrate. Interestingly, FvXTH9 showed activity of mixed‐linkage glucan:xyloglucan endotransglucosylase (MXE) and cellulose:xyloglucan endotransglucosylase (CXE). The optimum pH of both FvXTH9 and FvXTH6 was 6.5. The prediction of subcellular localization suggested localization to the secretory pathway, which was confirmed by localization studies in Nicotiana tabacum. Overexpression showed that Fragaria × ananassa fruits infiltrated with FvXTH9 and FvXTH6 ripened faster and showed decreased firmness compared with the empty vector control pBI121. Thus FvXTH9 and also FvXTH6 might promote strawberry fruit ripening by the modification of cell wall components.
Functional demonstration of plant flavonoid carbocations proposed to be involved in the biosynthesis of proanthocyanidins
Authors: Wang Peiqiang , Liu Yajun , Zhang Lingjie , Wang Wenzhao , Hou Hua , Zhao Yue , Jiang Xiaolan , Yu Jie , Tan Huarong , Wang Yunsheng , Xie De‐Yu , Gao Liping , Xia Tao
Published: August 2019

The plant flavonoid dogma proposes that labile plant flavonoid carbocations (PFCs) play vital roles in the biosynthesis of proanthocyanidins (PAs). However, whether PFCs exist in plants and how PFCs function remain unclear. Here, we report the use of an integrative strategy including enzymatic assays, mutant analysis, metabolic engineering, isotope labeling and metabolic profiling to capture PFCs and demonstrate their functions. In anthocyanidin reductase (ANR) assays, an (−)‐epicatechin conjugate was captured in protic polar nucleophilic methanol alone or methanol−HCl extracts. Tandem mass spectrum (MS/MS) analysis characterized this compound as an (−)‐epicatechin‐4‐O‐methyl (EOM) ether, which resulted from (−)‐epicatechin carbocation and the methyl group of methanol. Acid‐based catalysis of procyanidin B2 and B3 produced four compounds, which were annotated as two EOM and two (+)‐catechin‐4‐O‐methyl (COM) ethers. Metabolic profiling of seven PA pathway mutants showed an absence or reduction of two EOM ether isomers in seeds. Camellia sinensis ANRa (CsANRa), leucoanthocyanidin reductase c (CsLARc), and CsMYB5b (a transcription factor) were independently overexpressed for successful PA engineering in tobacco. The EOM ether was remarkably increased in CsANRa and CsMYB5b transgenic flowers. Further metabolic profiling for eight green tea tissues revealed two EOM and two COM ethers associated with PA biosynthesis. Moreover, an incubation of (−)‐epicatechin or (+)‐catechin with epicatechin carbocation in CsANRa transgenic flower extracts formed dimeric procyanidin B1 or B2, demonstrating the role of flavan‐3‐ol carbocation in the formation of PAs. Taken together, these findings indicated that flavan‐3‐ol carbocations exist in extracts and are involved in the biosynthesis of PAs of plants.
A NOVEL METHOD FOR MEASUREMENT OF ELECTRIC FIELD IN EMULATED HUMAN BODY TISSUE USING WIRE MESH SENSOR
Authors: Nismayanti Anis , R. Baidillah Marlin , Al Huda Mahfudz , Prihandoko Bambang , Triwikantoro Triwikantoro , Endarko Endarko , Taruno Warsito P.
Published: August 2019

Wire mesh sensor has been successfully fabricated and used for measurement of the electric field in emulated human body tissue. Measurement of electric field in human body tissue needs to be done, because the electric field is very useful for the treatment especially cancer treatment and also important for health. In this study, we propose a novel electric field measurement method by using wire mesh sensor (wms), that is all channels on the wire act as receivers, and each cross point of the wire are interconnected. While in existing wire mesh sensors, there are two perpendicular channels of transmitter and receiver, and each channel is unrelated, there is a distance between the two channels. At present, wire mesh sensors 3 × 3 and 8 × 8 were used to measure the value of electric field at each wire intersection point. The wire mesh sensor consists of copper wire in a cylindrical body model with diameter 14 [cm]. The emulated human body tissue were inserted in the wire mesh sensor. Furthermore, linear back propagation technique and bilinear interpolation used for image reconstruction of the electric field distribution. The result showed that the wire mesh sensor 8 × 8 has better resolution than wire mesh sensor 3 × 3. The characterisation of wire mesh sensor 8 × 8  for measurement of electric field in emulated human body tissue is obtained lower than measurement in the air with a ratio of 82%. Meanwhile, the wire mesh sensor 3 × 3 could be achieved at 61.8%. This study can be a new science in measuring electric field so that electric field-based treatment planning system can be more optimal.
A NOVEL 1.6 KV HIGH VOLTAGE LOW CURRENT STEP-UP DC-DC CONVERTER WITH COCKCROFT-WALTON VOLTAGE MULTIPLIER FOR POWER SUPPLY MODULES
Authors: Zainol Murad Sohiful Anuar , Azmi Nor Afiqah , Harun Azizi , Zulkifli Tun Zainal Azni
Published: August 2019

A high dc voltage is commonly used in many process industries in testing, research laboratories and others. Currently, a high voltage dc is implemented using transformer. In this paper, a novel high voltage low current transformerless step-up dc-dc converter is presented. The proposed design consists of two step-up dc-dc converters with negative feedback signal and 15 stages of Cockcroft-Walton (C-W) voltage multiplier. The dc input voltage of 5 V triggers the first step-up dc-dc converter circuit to generate 30 V dc voltage and the second step-up dc-dc converter circuit boosts up to 100 V dc voltage. Further, diode-capacitor multiplier circuit is connected at the final stage to achieve 1.6 kV dc output voltages at 200 kHz switching frequency. The simulation results indicate that the proposed dc-dc converter can generate 1.548 kV dc voltage with a load current of 0.16 mA at 10 MΩ load resistor. Meanwhile, the experiment results show that the proposed dc-dc converter can generate 1.475 kV dc voltage with 80 % efficiency. The results validate both the simulation and experimental of the proposed high dc voltage power supply module.
THE POTENTIAL OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA LINN. (ROSELLE) POLYPHENOL-RICH EXTRACT AS A CARDIOPROTECTIVE AGENT IN MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION MODEL
Authors: Budin Siti Balkis , Sharifuddin Nor Anita , Jubaidi Fatin Farhana , Zainalabidin Satirah
Published: August 2019

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a common cause of death due to interrupted blood supply to the heart. Roselle calyx (Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn.) is rich in polyphenols and has a potential in alleviating the risk of cardiovascular disease through its antioxidant activity. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. or roselle polyphenol-rich extract (HPE) supplementation in oxidative stress and cardiac injury biomarkers as well as cardiac histological changes following isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction (MI). Twenty-one male rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, MI, and HPE+MI. Normal saline or HPE (20 mg/kg BW) was given to MI and HPE+MI groups, respectively, for 14 consecutive days via force feeding. On the 15th and 16th day, 85 mg/kg body weight of ISO was administered subcutaneously to induce MI. Control group was only given normal saline throughout this 16-day duration of study. The results showed that HPE reduced the oxidative stress markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrite oxide (NO) in HPE+MI group when compared with MI group (p<0.05) while increased reduced glutathione (GSH) level reflexes the improvement in antioxidant status. Cardiac injury biomarkers analysis showed no significant difference in HPE+MI group when compared to MI group. Histological study showed that HPE managed to reduce cardiac muscle fibre damage and infiltration of inflammatory cells in ISO-induced MI rats. In conclusion, HPE has the potential in protecting the heart against ISO-induced MI by reducing the oxidative stress and increasing antioxidant status.
PHYTOREMEDIATON OF HEAVY METALS FROM WASTEWATER BY CONSTRUCTED WETLAND MICROCOSM PLANTED WITH ALOCASIA PUBER
Authors: Mohamad Thani Najaa Syuhada , Mohd Ghazi Rozidaini , Mohd Amin Mohd Faiz , Hamzah Zulhazman
Published: August 2019

Water pollution by toxic heavy metals is a global environmental problem. It has led to the development of alternative technologies for heavy metals removal from contaminated sites. Constructed wetland microcosm by using Alocasia puber is a possible treatment method for wastewater containing heavy metals. Synthetic wastewater with heavy metals Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn were used in this study. Several heavy metals concentrations (5 mg/L, 10 mg/L and 100 mg/L) were used in the systems. Six different hydraulic retention times (HRTs) (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 days) were tested in the present study. The results obtained showed removal efficiencies of heavy metals of >99% after day 12. The removal of Ni from 10 mg/L solutions (initial concentrations) recorded the best removal efficiency. Heavy metal translocation factor (TF) was found to be less than 1 for all metals tested, which confirmed the significance of roots as heavy metals accumulator compared to stems or leaves of A, puber. Therefore, this study concluded that A, puber has a great potential as an important component in constructed wetlands for water contaminated with heavy metals.
Therapeutic blockade of activin-A improves NK cell function and antitumor immunity
Authors: Rautela Jai , Dagley Laura F. , de Oliveira Carolina C. , Schuster Iona S. , Hediyeh-Zadeh Soroor , Delconte Rebecca B. , Cursons Joseph , Hennessy Robert , Hutchinson Dana S. , Harrison Craig , Kita Badia , Vivier Eric , Webb Andrew I. , Degli-Esposti Mariapia A. , Davis Melissa J. , Huntington Nicholas D. , Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes Fernando
Published: August 2019

Activin-A inhibits NK cell effector functions and suppresses antimelanoma immunity.
SMAC mimetics throw a molecular switch to control T
H
17 responses
Authors: Dougan Stephanie K. , Dougan Michael
Published: August 2019

SMAC mimetics that inhibit tumor growth can also limit autoimmunity (Rizk
et al.
, in 27 August 2019 issue).
Arginine Biosynthesis Modulates Pyoverdine Production and Release in Pseudomonas putida as Part of the Mechanism of Adaptation to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Barrientos-Moreno Laura , Molina-Henares María Antonia , Pastor-García Marta , Ramos-González María Isabel , Espinosa-Urgel Manuel
Published: August 2019

The results of this study show a previously unidentified connection between arginine metabolism, siderophore turnover, and oxidative stress in
Pseudomonas putida
. Although the precise molecular mechanisms involved have yet to be characterized in full detail, our data are consistent with a model in which arginine biosynthesis and the derived pathway leading to polyamine production function as a homeostasis mechanism that helps maintain the balance between iron uptake and oxidative-stress response systems.
Evaluation of Oxacillin and Cefoxitin Disk Diffusion and Microbroth Dilution Methods for Detecting
mecA
-Mediated β-Lactam Resistance in Contemporary Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolates
Authors: Naccache Samia N. , Callan Katrina , Burnham Carey-Ann D. , Wallace Meghan A. , Westblade Lars F. , Dien Bard Jennifer
Published: August 2019

Methicillin (β-lactam) resistance in
Staphylococcus epidermidis
is mediated by the
mecA
gene, with resistance reported to be as high as 90%. The goal of this study was to evaluate oxacillin and cefoxitin disk diffusion (DD) and broth microdilution (BMD) methods for the detection of
mecA
-mediated β-lactam resistance in 100 human isolates of
S. epidermidis
(48
mecA
-positive isolates and 52
mecA
negative isolates).
Bioinformatic and Molecular Analysis of Inverse Autotransporters from Escherichia coli
Authors: Goh Kelvin G. K. , Moriel Danilo G. , Hancock Steven J. , Phan Minh-Duy , Schembri Mark A.
Published: August 2019

Escherichia coli
is one of the most prevalent facultative anaerobes of the human gut.
E. coli
normally exists as a harmless commensal but can also cause disease following the acquisition of genes that enhance its pathogenicity. Adhesion is an important first step in colonization of the host and is mediated by an array of cell surface components. In
E. coli
, these include a family of adhesins secreted by the type V secretion system. Here, we identified and characterized new proteins from an emerging subclass of the type V secretion system known as the inverse autotransporters (IATs). We found that IAT-encoding genes are present in a wide range of strains and showed that three novel IATs were localized on the
E. coli
cell surface and mediated biofilm formation. Overall, this study provides new insight into the prevalence, function, and regulation of IATs in
E. coli
.
Association between residential greenness and cognitive function: analysis of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey
Authors: Zhu Anna , Wu Chenkai , Yan Lijing L , Wu Chih-Da , Bai Chen , Shi Xiaoming , Zeng Yi , Ji John S
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Proximity to vegetated green space has been linked to better physical and mental health. However, the relationship between residential greenness and cognitive function and its decline among older adults is not clear in large cohort studies.

Methods

Our study used the 2000, 2002, 2005, 2008 and 2011 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. We calculated the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) using a 500 m radius around participants’ residential addresses. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was applied to measure cognitive function. Our study included the cross-sectional analysis using the linear regression, and logistical regression, and also the longitudinal analysis using the linear mixed effects regression, and mixed effects logistic regression. Our study also conducted a sensitivity analysis using the survey-weighted regression. Additionally, our study participants were categorised into those living in areas of positive and negative changes in NDVI in relation to MMSE. All regression models were adjusted for a range of covariates.

Results

Among 38 327 participants at baseline, the mean MMSE score was 21. Annual average NDVI ranged from −0.11 to 0.76. In the cross-sectional analysis, each 0.1-unit increase in NDVI was associated with a 0.23-point increase in MMSE score (95% CI 0.16 to 0.29) in the linear regression, and an OR of 0.94 (95% CI 0.92 to 0.96) of having cognition impairment in the logistic regression. In the second analysis, looking at changes in NDVI and MMSE score, compared with the participants living in areas with an increase in NDVI, those living in areas with a decrease in greenness had an OR of 1.25 (95% CI 1.18 to 1.34) of a decrease in MMSE, and an OR of 0.90 (95% CI 0.84 to 0.96) of an increase in MMSE. In the longitudinal analysis, we found a significantly weak association (coefficient 0.069, 95% CI 0.0048 to 0.13) in the linear mixed effects regression, but not in the mixed effects logistic regression.

Conclusion

We found evidence of an association between higher residential greenness and better cognitive function among older adults. Our finding provides insight into neurodegeneration and has implications for preventing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in China.
Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK) in preschool children with asthma: a prospective validation study
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhao Liebin , Zhao Deyu , Chen Zhimin , Li Shenghui , Zhang Hao , Zhang Lei , Yuan ShuHua , Tang Mingyu , Wu YuFen , Zhong Wenwei , Xu Juan , Zhao Li Xia , Liu Shi Ying , Hong Jianguo , Yin Yong
Published: August 2019

Objective

The limited existing asthma control questionnaires that are available for children 5 years of age or younger in China mostly assess only the impairment domain of asthma control. Here, the English version of the Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK) was translated into Chinese and validated for its application in asthma control in preschool children.

Design

Prospective validation study.

Setting and participants

A total of 321 Chinese preschool children suffering from asthma completed the study from December 2017 to February 2018.

Method

The TRACK translation into Chinese employed the translation and back translation technique. The caregivers of the preschool children with asthma symptoms completed TRACK during two clinical visits over 4–6 weeks. Moreover, the physicians completed a Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)-based asthma control survey at both visits. The utility of TRACK for assessing the change in asthma control status and its reliability and discriminant validity were evaluated.

Results

The Chinese version of TRACK showed internal consistency reliability values of 0.63 and 0.71 at each visit, respectively (Cronbach’s α). The test–retest reliability was 0.62 for individuals whose GINA-based assessment results were the same at both visits (n=206). The TRACK scores for the children in the various asthma control categories were significantly different (p<0.001). Children recommended for increased treatment by the physicians had lower TRACK scores than those recommended for no change in treatment or decreased treatment (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The study verifies the validity and reliability of the Chinese version of TRACK. Changes in the TRACK scores effectively reflected the level of asthma control in preschool children and guided further treatment strategies.

Trial registration number

NCT02649803
Drivers who tested positive for cannabis in oral fluid: a longitudinal analysis of administrative data for Spain between 2011 and 2016
Authors: Herrera-Gómez Francisco , García-Mingo Mercedes , Colás Mónica , González-Luque Juan Carlos , Alvarez F Javier
Published: August 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the association between positive roadside tests for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other driving-impairing substances and THC concentrations and the age and gender of THC-positive drivers.

Design

This study is based on administrative data.

Setting, participants and exposures

National administrative data on drivers who tested positive in confirmation analysis of driving-impairing substances in oral fluid were assessed (2011–2016, 179 645 tests).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Frequencies of positivity for THC, THC alone and THC plus non-THC substances (stratification by age and gender in 2016) and THC concentration were obtained. Comparisons and univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed.

Results

Of the 65 244 confirmed drug-positive tests, 51 869 were positive for THC (79.5%). In 50.8% of the THC-positive tests, cocaine and amphetamines were also detected. Positivity for THC and non-THC substances predominated among drivers with low THC concentrations and represented 58.6% of those with levels lower than 25 ng/mL. The mean±SD for age was 29.6±7.7 years (year 2016, n=24 941). Men accounted for 96.3% of all THC-positive drivers. With increasing age, positivity for THC decreased (OR 0.948; 95% CI 0.945 to 0.952; p<0.0001), and positivity for THC and non-THC substances increased (OR 1.021; 95% CI 1.017 to 1.024; p<0.0001). Men were associated with higher THC concentrations (OR 1.394; 95% CI 1.188 to 1.636; p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Cannabis positivity is frequent among drivers, and polysubstance use is common. Hence, focusing on younger drivers and those with low THC concentrations is encouraged. This study provides evidence on the current implementation of roadside drug testing in Spain and aims to characterise driving under the influence (DUI) of cannabis to increase the awareness of all involved to help them avoid DUI.
Obstructive sleep apnoea, positive airway pressure treatment and postoperative delirium: protocol for a retrospective observational study
Authors: King Christopher R , Escallier Krisztina E , Ju Yo-El S , Lin Nan , Palanca Ben Julian , McKinnon Sherry Lynn , Avidan Michael Simon
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is common among older surgical patients, and delirium is a frequent and serious postoperative complication. Emerging evidence suggests that OSA increases the risk for postoperative delirium. We hypothesise that OSA is an independent risk factor for postoperative delirium, and that in patients with OSA, perioperative adherence to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy decreases the incidence of postoperative delirium and its sequelae. The proposed retrospective cohort analysis study will use existing datasets to: (i) describe and compare the incidence of postoperative delirium in surgical patients based on OSA diagnosis and treatment with PAP; (ii) assess whether preoperatively untreated OSA is independently associated with postoperative delirium; and (iii) explore whether preoperatively untreated OSA is independently associated with worse postoperative quality of life (QoL). The findings of this study will inform on the potential utility and approach of an interventional trial aimed at preventing postoperative delirium in patients with diagnosed and undiagnosed OSA.

Methods and analysis

Observational data from existing electronic databases will be used, including over 100 000 surgical patients and ~10 000 intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. We will obtain the incidence of postoperative delirium in adults admitted postoperatively to the ICU who underwent structured preoperative assessment, including OSA diagnosis and screening. We will use doubly robust propensity score methods to assess whether untreated OSA independently predicts postoperative delirium. Using similar methodology, we will assess if untreated OSA independently predicts worse postoperative QoL.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Human Research Protection Office at Washington University School of Medicine. We will publish the results in a peer-reviewed venue. Because the data are secondary and high risk for reidentification, we will not publicly share the data. Data will be destroyed after 1 year of completion of active Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved projects.