bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheological Behaviour of Dehydrated Castor Oil Epoxy (Dcoe) Blend with Polymethylmethacrylate (Pmma)
Authors: Riaz Ufana , Ashraf S.M. , Ahmad Sharif , Sharma H.O.
Published: September 2018

Blending of sustainable resource based polymers with synthetic polymers can be used to design biodegradable and biocompatible materials that hold immense potential for their application as green packaging materials. Since the molar mass of sustainable resource based polymers is lower than the synthetic polymers, they are likely to form heterogeneous blends with low compatibility. Therefore, it is significant to theoretically predict the compatibility of such so as to determine at what composition and temperature, these blends can be compatible. The present preliminary investigation reports the rheological characteristics of highly concentrated blend solutions (8 wt%) of dehydrated castor oil epoxy blend (DCOE) with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) at various compositions and temperatures to theoretically predict the miscibility of this blend in the solid phase. The obtained values were compared with the experimental results obtained from viscosity and ultrasonic velocity measurements.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Potentially Biodegradable Polyurethane Adhesives from Soybased Polyols
Authors: Orgilés-Calpena E. , Arán-Aís F. , Torró-Palau A.M. , Orgilés-Barceló C.
Published: September 2018

Vegetable oils are one of the most important renewable raw materials because of their high availability and low price. Their use as a reagent for the synthesis of polymers represents many advantages such as biodegradability, low toxicity, sustainability, etc. The design of polymers from renewable resources is subject to increasing interest, specifically the development of biodegradable materials in order to reduce the dependence on petroleum and its negative impact on the environment. On the other hand, thanks to the versatility of polyurethane adhesives, they can be formulated by designing their properties through the selection of their reagents.

This work focused on the development of potentially biodegradable polyurethane adhesives containing polyols from renewable resources, such as soy-based vegetable oils. Moreover, they were synthesised with 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and 1,4-butanediol as chain extender.

The potentially biodegradable polyurethane adhesives were characterised by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric tests (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Finally, the adhesion properties were measured from a T-peel test of leather/polyurethane adhesive/SBR rubber joints, in order to establish the amount of polyol based on soybean oil that could be incorporated to synthesise polyurethane adhesives satisfactorily and meet the quality requirements for footwear.
Research Progress of Polymer Latex Modified with Rosin
Authors: Chen Lijun , Li Wen , Jiang Wei
Published: September 2018

Polymer latexes have been widely used in paints, adhesives, binders, paper coatings, textile finishes, pharmaceuticals, floor polishes, printing inks, etc. because of the reduced volatile organic compound emissions afforded by these water-based systems. Rosin has excellent properties of corrosion, moisture, insulation, emulsifying and thickening. The rosin is introduced into polymer latexes to produce polymer latex modified with rosin via blending or copolymerization methods, which not only broadens the use of deep-processing of rosin, but also widens the scope of application of polymer latexes. The research progress of polymer latexes including water dispersible polymers modified with rosin was reviewed. The tendency of polymer latexes modified with rosin is brought forward.
Studies to Determine Critical Characteristics of Thermally Treated Biomass Fillers Suitable for Thermoset Composites
Authors: Watt Paula , Pugh Coleen
Published: September 2018

Biomass fillers are of interest for thermoset composites due to their lower density and favorable life cycle impact relative to mineral fillers. The purpose of this reported research is to develop a more thorough understanding of the mechanisms of the cure problems historically reported with biomass fillers in thermosets. Biomass fillers heat-treated using a variety of equipment under various conditions were studied using dielectric analysis (DEA), elemental analysis (EA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In addition, mechanical properties and water absorption were measured for bulk molding compounds (BMC) made using the fillers. Kraft lignin had an inhibition effect on the cure of unsaturated polyester resins. Soy hulls heat treated at 500°C also inhibited cure, although untreated soy hulls did not. Extraction studies indicated significant aromatic content that was soluble in toluene in the aggressively heat treated filler, which also inhibited cure. Lower temperature heat treatments up to 249°C did not inhibit cure. With precursor selection considerations and controlled thermal treatments, a biomass filler capable as a 100% volume replacement for mineral fillers in thermoset composites is feasible.
Wood-Like Material from Thermoplastic Polymer and Landfill Bio-Materials: Dma, Tga and Solvent Resistance Properties
Authors: Mousa Ahmad , Heinrich Gert , Wagenknecht Udo
Published: September 2018

The aim of this work is to explore the potential application of chemically modified olive husk residue (OHR) as naturally occurring fillers to reinforce (Nylon-12) thermoplastic to produce a cost-effective wood like material. The Nylon-12/OHR composite material was fabricated via melt mixing of the Nylon-12 followed by the addition of chemically treated OHR at 180 and 50 rev.min−1 using Brabender internal mixer. The composites were characterized with respect to their dynamic mechanical properties, namely storage and viscous moduli (E′, E”), and mechanical loss factors (tan δ) using dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA). The thermal stability of the samples with and without chemically treated OHR were examined using thermo-gravimetric analyzer (TGA). The chemical resistance of the composites was evaluated by immersing the samples in acidic and basic media and by exposing the samples to thermo-oxidative ageing (TOA) at 80C for 72h. The influence of TOA and immersion medium on the percentage weight loss, impact strength and hardness of the composites were reported. The effect of TOA and the solvent attack on the microstructure of the fractured samples was viewed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Influence of Botanic Origin on the Morphology and Size of Starch Nanoparticles from Andean Native Starch Sources
Authors: Torres Fernando G. , Troncoso Omar P. , Vega Jaime , Wong Michelle
Published: September 2018

For the first time we report the extraction of starch nanoparticles from six varieties of native Andean potatoes. The starch granule size, amylose content and nanoparticle size varied with each different starch source. The size of the nanoparticles obtained ranged 65–278nm. No direct correlation was found between granule size and nanoparticle size. We have found that starches with similar amylose content can render nanoparticles of different sizes when they are obtained from different varieties of potatoes.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polyurethanes from Oleic, Erucic and 10-Undecenoic Acids
Authors: Yu Z.L. , Jiang C. , Li W. , Ma F.M. , Wei S.C. , Ruan M. , Kong X. , Han D.Y.
Published: September 2018

The biobased aromatic triols were designed and synthesized from oleic acid, 10-undecenoic and erucic acid using optimized chemical reactions and purifications. Three aromatic triols were synthesized followed by cyclotrimerization of stearoyl alcohol, 10-undecyn-1-ol, and behenolic ester to obtain the aromatic triols and aromatic derivatives, and subsequent reduction of carboxylate groups to give primary hydroxyl groups. The analyses of these biobased aromatic triols were performed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A series of biobased segmented polyurethanes based on these aromatic triols, 1,4-butanediol as a chain extender and 4,4′-methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) as a coupling agent, were synthesized. The sample materials were prepared with a hard-segment content up to 50%. The morphologies and thermal stability of these polyurethanes were studied by the FTIR spectroscopy, wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). The results showed that it could be feasible to use the renewable resources to manufacture the applicable and green materials.
Preparation and Characterization of Biodegradable Hydrogels Based on Ulvan, a Polysaccharide from Green Seaweeds
Authors: Yoshimura Toshio , Hirao Nana , Fujioka Rumiko
Published: September 2018

Preparation of superabsorbent hydrogels based on ulvan, a polysaccharide extracted from green seaweed Ulva, was investigated by crosslinking ulvan with divinylsulfone (DVS) under alkaline aqueous condition. Extraction of ulvan from Ulva was performed at room temperature or at 80°C. Gelation was observed constantly when ulvan obtained at 80°C was crosslinked with DVS, but not always when that obtained at room temperature was used. The optimal preparation condition of hydrogels was investigated by changing the feed amount of DVS. Among those examined, the highest water absorbency was obtained with the sample for DVS feed ratio of 20 wt%. Maximum absorbency in pure water was 80 g/g, which was considerably lower than that of crosslinked sodium polyacrylate, commercially available (300 g/g). Biodegradation speed of the hydrogels in the present study depended on the feed amount of DVS.
Improved Morphology and Properties of Nanocomposites, Linear Low Density Polyethylene, Ethylene-Co-Vinyl Acetate and Nano Clay Particles by Electron Beam
Authors: Mousavi S.M. , Aghili A. , Hashemi S.A. , Goudarzian N. , Bakhoda Z. , Baseri S.
Published: September 2018

Surface modification of linear low-density-polyethylene (LLDPE), ethylene-co-vinyl acetate (EVA), and clay nanoparticles composite films was promoted by potassium permanganate solutions in HCl acidic medium using eight conditions by variation times and temperature, also concentrated oxidation solution of LLDPE and EVA blend films shows a very good clarity and tensile properties, this property can be improved by adding the clay nanoparticles as a filler in the composite. The influence of electron beams (EB) irradiation and amount of clay nanoparticles loading on the overall properties of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) /ethylene-co-vinyl acetate blends was investigated. Samples were subjected to the EB irradiation with the dose values of 75 and 150kGy, afterwards mechanical and thermal properties of the LLDPE/EVA blends with and without clay nanoparticles at different irradiation dosages were utilized in order to analyze the characteristics of the final composite. These enhanced properties are due to the homogenize dispersion of Clay nanoparticles in LLDPE matrix. Moreover, in order to verify these characteristics and compare composite samples with and without Clay nanoparticles (Cloisites 30B), some tests such as DSC, TGA, PSA, SEM and Optical Micrographs (OM) were taken from the samples.
Mechanical Properties of Short Sisal Fibre Reinforced Phenol Formaldehyde Eco-Friendly Composites
Authors: Maya M.G. , George Soney C. , Jose Thomasukutty , Sreekala M.S. , Thomas Sabu
Published: September 2018

Natural fibres are a good reinforcing material. Among the various natural fibres, sisal fibre is of particular interest, since its composites have high impact strength besides having moderate tensile and flexural properties compared to other ligno-cellulosic fibres. Sisal fibre is a promising reinforcement for use in composites on account of its low cost, low density, high specific strength and modulus, no health hazards, easy availability in some countries and renewability. The present work focused on the recent developments in the field of sisal fibre reinforced phenol formaldehyde composites with reference to the properties of sisal fibre, processing techniques, and the physical and mechanical properties of the composites. The mechanical properties of the composites show much improvement by the addition of sisal fibre of optimum fibre length 40 mm and fibre loading 54 wt%. The better fibre matrix interaction is shown by sisal-PF containing 54 wt%. The comparison with other natural fibres shows that sisal fibre is a good reinforcing agent in PF matrix. Flexural strength and impact strength of the composites were examined and are increased with increasing the fibre content. Ageing studies of the composites showed a similar trend to that of un-aged samples. Interestingly, water absorption test results show that composite with 54 wt% fibre loading have good interaction with the matrix and contains less voids.
Natural Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite Materials - A Review
Authors: Dixit Savita , Goel Ritesh , Dubey Akash , Shivhare Prince Raj , Bhalavi Tanmay
Published: September 2018

Availability of natural fibre, low cost and ease of manufacturing have urged the attention of researchers towards the possibility of reinforcement of natural fibre to improve their mechanical properties and study the extent to which they satisfy the required specifications of good reinforced polymer composite for industrial and structural applications.

The chemically treated natural fibre shows better improvement in properties than untreated fibres. The chemically treated natural fibre has improved interfacial adhesion between fibre surface and polymer matrix. Natural fibre reinforcements have shown better results in impact toughness and fatigue strength. This review aims at explaining about the research and development in the improvement in properties of natural fibre reinforced polymer composites along with its application.
Thermal and Rheological Properties of the Mucilage from the Fruit of Cordia lutea
Authors: Troncoso Omar P. , Zamora Bruno , Torres Fernando G.
Published: September 2018

In recent years, natural gums and mucilages have been shown to be useful in the food and pharmacological industries. In this study, the mucilage of the fruit of Cordia lueta has been extracted and characterised in order to explore its potential applications. Thermogravimetric tests were used to measure the water content of this natural mucilage. Differential scanning calorimetry allowed assessing thermal transitions and thermal degradation of the samples. Steady flow rheometry was used to measure the viscosity of the samples as a function of the shear rate. Dynamic oscillatory rheometry was used to study the variation of the storage and loss modulus of the mucilage as function of the oscillatory frequency and stress. The results showed that this mucilage is a polysaccharide network that behaves as a pseudoplastic fluid. Its storage modulus is not completely independent from the oscillation frequency. In addition, the stress sweeps showed that C. lutea mucilage has a reversible stress softening behaviour. The findings reported in the present work suggest that this mucilage can be used as a rheology modifier for commercial foods and biomedical materials.
Polyethylene Terephthalate/Acryl Butadiene Styrene Copolymer Incorporated with Oak Shell, Potassium Sorbate and Egg Shell Nanoparticles for Food Packaging Applications: Control of Bacteria Growth, Physical and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Mousavi Seyyed Mojtaba , Hashemi Seyyed Alireza , Amani Ali Mohammad , Saed Hesam , Jahandideh Sara , Mojoudi Fatemeh
Published: September 2018

In this study, the effect of renewable and degradable resources including Oak shell, potassium sorbate and egg shell nanoparticles on the overall properties of polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/acryl butadiene styrene (ABS) were investigated. In this regard, the effect of mentioned additives on the mechanical properties, oxygen permeability, water absorption rate and anti-microbial properties of recycled PET/ABS blend were examined. The results revealed that the addition of ABS to PET can lead to an increase in tensile strength, while it can lead to a decrease in the elongation at break and Young's modulus. Moreover, the addition of Oak shell and potassium sorbate to the PET/ABS mixture can enhance the antimicrobial properties. However, these additives can lead to a significant increase in the water absorption and oxygen permeability within the PET/ABS mixture. On the other hand, reinforcement of PET/ABS with egg shell nanoparticles not only improves the mechanical properties of PET/ABS but also can lead to a decrease in the water absorption and oxygen permeability compared with neat PET/ABS. The main aim of this study is to develop anti-bacterial and degradable plastic structures based on recycled PET/ABS to find a solution for recycling plastic based scraps or improving their natural degradability.
Surface Modified Clay Reinforced Silicon Incorporated Epoxy Hybrid Nanocomposites: Thermal, Mechanical, and Morphological Properties
Authors: Chozhan C. Karikal , Chandramohan A. , Alagar M.
Published: September 2018

The silicon-containing epoxy/clay nanocomposites were developed by incorporating the surface-modified MMT clay upto 7wt% into Si-epoxy resin. The surface of the montmorillonite (MMT) clay was modified with two surface modifiers namely cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (γ-APS). The surface modified clay reinforced Si-epoxy composites were developed in the form of castings, and were characterized for their thermal and mechanical properties. Thermal behaviour of the composites was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). Mechanical properties were studied as per ASTM standards. Data result from the different studies, it is inferred that the surface modified clay reinforced Si-epoxy composites exhibit lower Tg than that of neat epoxy matrix (127°C <165°C). The decomposition temperature for 60% weight loss of clay reinforced Si-epoxy composites is 674–823°C which is higher when compared to that of neat epoxy matrix. For 5wt% clay reinforced Si-epoxy composites, the values of tensile, flexural and impact strength are increased to 26%, 21% and 29% respectively. The storage modulus (E’) is increased from 5932 to 6308 MPa for clay reinforced Si-epoxy resin. XRD analysis confirmed the well-dispersed exfoliated nanocomposites structure.
Characterization and in vitro Biocompatibility of Binary Mixtures of Chitosan and Polyurethanes Synthesized from Chemically Modified Castor Oil, as Materials for Medical Use
Authors: Arévalo Fabián R. , Osorio Sonia A. , Valcárcel Nathaly A. , Ibarra Jeimmy C. , Valero Manuel F.
Published: September 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of chitosan into polyurethane matrices synthesized from chemically modified castor (Ricinus communis) oil by transesterification with pentaerythritol. An additional aim of this study was to determine the degree of acceptance as a biomaterial (obtained from renewable sources), based on the analysis of its mechanical properties (stress/rupture strain), hydrophilic character (contact angle), morphology (SEM) and in vitro compatibility of polyurethanes when in contact with mouse fibroblast L929 cells. No significant changes in mechanical properties were observed with the addition of chitosan to polyurethanes synthesized from chemically modified castor oil. All polyurethane formulas showed morphological changes with increased chitosan concentration. As chitosan/polyurethane binary mixtures do not present a cytotoxicity risk for L929 mouse fibroblasts and possess similar mechanical properties to soft and cardiovascular tissues, their use as a biomedical material is suggested.
Biomimetic oyster shell–replicated topography alters the behaviour of human skeletal stem cells
Authors: Waddell Shona J , de Andrés María C , Tsimbouri Penelope M , Alakpa Enateri V , Cusack Maggie , Dalby Matthew J , Oreffo Richard OC
Published: September 2018

The regenerative potential of skeletal stem cells provides an attractive prospect to generate bone tissue needed for musculoskeletal reparation. A central issue remains efficacious, controlled cell differentiation strategies to aid progression of cell therapies to the clinic. The nacre surface from Pinctada maxima shells is known to enhance bone formation. However, to date, there is a paucity of information on the role of the topography of P. maxima surfaces, nacre and prism. To investigate this, nacre and prism topographical features were replicated onto polycaprolactone and skeletal stem cell behaviour on the surfaces studied. Skeletal stem cells on nacre surfaces exhibited an increase in cell area, increase in expression of osteogenic markers ALP ( p < 0.05) and OCN ( p < 0.01) and increased metabolite intensity ( p < 0.05), indicating a role of nacre surface to induce osteogenic differentiation, while on prism surfaces, skeletal stem cells did not show alterations in cell area or osteogenic marker expression and a decrease in metabolite intensity ( p < 0.05), demonstrating a distinct role for the prism surface, with the potential to maintain the skeletal stem cell phenotype.
Social capital and social trust in urban China
Authors: Huang Yinxuan
Published: September 2018

Owing to the dynamics of internal migration and the hukou system, urban areas in China always consist of a four-tiered structure of urban locals, urban migrants, new urbanites and rural migrants. This paper aims to examine the differences among these four groups in terms of social capital and to explore how the association between social capital and social trust may vary across the four groups. Data are based on the 2014 China Labour-force Dynamics Survey. Our analysis of 7662 responses first indicates that patterns of social capital in the four urban groups appear to be largely distinct. Second, we find a clear rural–urban division in social trust in the Chinese city: rural migrants and new urbanites tend to be less trusting than urban locals and urban migrants. Among the aspects of social capital under consideration, social network support and neighbourhood attachment are associated with higher levels of social trust, whereas the effects of bonding and bridging civic organizations on social trust are relatively weak. However, these patterns indeed tend to vary across the four groups of urban residents in the cases of civic engagement and social network support. Consequently, these findings suggest that the interplay of individuals’ hukou identities and migration experiences in urban China has an important impact on their social connectedness, which also presents distinctive implications for social trust.
Postoperative Narcotic Prescription Practice in Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery
Authors: Hearty Thomas M. , Butler Paul , Anderson John , Bohay Donald
Published: September 2018

Background:

The misuse and abuse of opioid pain medications have become a public health crisis. Because orthopedic surgeons are the third highest prescribers of opioids, understanding their postoperative pain medication prescribing practices is key to solving the opioid crisis. To this end, we conducted a study of the variability in orthopedic foot and ankle surgery postoperative opioid prescribing practice patterns.

Methods:

Three hundred fifty orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons were contacted; respondents completed a survey with 4 common patient scenarios and surgical procedures followed by questions regarding typical postoperative pain medication prescriptions. The scenarios ranged from minimally painful procedures to those that would be expected to be significantly more painful. Summaries were calculated as percentages and chi-square or Fisher exact tests were used to compare survey responses between groups stratified by years in practice and type of practice.

Results:

Sixty-four surgeons responded to the survey (92.8% male), 31% were in practice less than 5 years, 34% 6 to 15 years and 34% more than 15 years. For each scenario, there was variation in the type of pain medication prescribed ( scenario 1: 17% 5 mg hydrocodone, 22% 10 mg hydrocodone, 52% oxycodone, and 3% oxycodone sustained release [SR]; scenario 2: 15% 5 mg hydrocodone, 13% 10 mg hydrocodone, 58% oxycodone, and 9% oxycodone SR; scenario 3: 11% 5 mg hydrocodone, 13% 10 mg hydrocodone, 56% oxycodone, and 14.1% oxycodone SR; scenario 4: 3% 5 mg hydrocodone, 5% 10 mg hydrocodone, 44% oxycodone, and 45% oxycodone SR) and the number of pills dispensed. Use of multimodal pain management was variable but most physicians use regional nerve blocks for each scenario (76%, 87%, 69%, 94%). Less experienced surgeons (less than 5 years in practice) supplement with tramadol more for scenario 1 ( P = .034) as well as use regional nerve blocks for scenario 2 ( P = .039) more than experienced surgeons (more than 15 years in practice).

Conclusion:

It is evident that variation exists in narcotic prescription practices for postoperative pain management by orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons. With new AAOS guidelines, it is important to try to create some standardization in opioid prescription protocols.
Registered Replication Report on Mazar, Amir, and Ariely (2008)
Authors: Verschuere Bruno , Meijer Ewout H. , Jim Ariane , Hoogesteyn Katherine , Orthey Robin , McCarthy Randy J. , Skowronski John J. , Acar Oguz A. , Aczel Balazs , Bakos Bence E. , Barbosa Fernando , Baskin Ernest , Bègue Laurent , Ben-Shakhar Gershon , Birt Angie R. , Blatz Lisa , Charman Steve D. , Claesen Aline , Clay Samuel L. , Coary Sean P. , Crusius Jan , Evans Jacqueline R. , Feldman Noa , Ferreira-Santos Fernando , Gamer Matthias , Gomes Sara , González-Iraizoz Marta , Holzmeister Felix , Huber Juergen , Isoni Andrea , Jessup Ryan K. , Kirchler Michael , klein Selle Nathalie , Koppel Lina , Kovacs Marton , Laine Tei , Lentz Frank , Loschelder David D. , Ludvig Elliot A. , Lynn Monty L. , Martin Scott D. , McLatchie Neil M. , Mechtel Mario , Nahari Galit , Özdoğru Asil Ali , Pasion Rita , Pennington Charlotte R. , Roets Arne , Rozmann Nir , Scopelliti Irene , Spiegelman Eli , Suchotzki Kristina , Sutan Angela , Szecsi Peter , Tinghög Gustav , Tisserand Jean-Christian , Tran Ulrich S. , Van Hiel Alain , Vanpaemel Wolf , Västfjäll Daniel , Verliefde Thomas , Vezirian Kévin , Voracek Martin , Warmelink Lara , Wick Katherine , Wiggins Bradford J. , Wylie Keith , Yıldız Ezgi
Published: September 2018

The self-concept maintenance theory holds that many people will cheat in order to maximize self-profit, but only to the extent that they can do so while maintaining a positive self-concept. Mazar, Amir, and Ariely (2008, Experiment 1) gave participants an opportunity and incentive to cheat on a problem-solving task. Prior to that task, participants either recalled the Ten Commandments (a moral reminder) or recalled 10 books they had read in high school (a neutral task). Results were consistent with the self-concept maintenance theory. When given the opportunity to cheat, participants given the moral-reminder priming task reported solving 1.45 fewer matrices than did those given a neutral prime (Cohen’s d = 0.48); moral reminders reduced cheating. Mazar et al.’s article is among the most cited in deception research, but their Experiment 1 has not been replicated directly. This Registered Replication Report describes the aggregated result of 25 direct replications (total N = 5,786), all of which followed the same preregistered protocol. In the primary meta-analysis (19 replications, total n = 4,674), participants who were given an opportunity to cheat reported solving 0.11 more matrices if they were given a moral reminder than if they were given a neutral reminder (95% confidence interval = [−0.09, 0.31]). This small effect was numerically in the opposite direction of the effect observed in the original study (Cohen’s d = −0.04).
Altered patterns of global protein synthesis and translational fidelity in RPS15-mutated chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Bretones Gabriel , Álvarez Miguel G. , Arango Javier R. , Rodríguez David , Nadeu Ferran , Prado Miguel A. , Valdés-Mas Rafael , Puente Diana A. , Paulo Joao A. , Delgado Julio , Villamor Neus , López-Guillermo Armando , Finley Daniel J. , Gygi Steven P. , Campo Elías , Quesada Víctor , López-Otín Carlos
Published: September 2018

Genomic studies have recently identified RPS15 as a new driver gene in aggressive and chemorefractory cases of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). RPS15 encodes a ribosomal protein whose conserved C-terminal domain extends into the decoding center of the ribosome. We demonstrate that mutations in highly conserved residues of this domain affect protein stability, by increasing its ubiquitin-mediated degradation, and cell-proliferation rates. On the other hand, we show that mutated RPS15 can be loaded into the ribosomes, directly impacting on global protein synthesis and/or translational fidelity in a mutation-specific manner. Quantitative mass spectrometry analyses suggest that RPS15 variants may induce additional alterations in the translational machinery, as well as a metabolic shift at the proteome level in HEK293T and MEC-1 cells. These results indicate that CLL-related RPS15 mutations might act following patterns known for other ribosomal diseases, likely switching from a hypo- to a hyperproliferative phenotype driven by mutated ribosomes. In this scenario, loss of translational fidelity causing altered cell proteostasis can be proposed as a new molecular mechanism involved in CLL pathobiology.
Notch signaling mediated by Delta-like ligands 1 and 4 controls the pathogenesis of chronic GVHD in mice
Authors: Radojcic Vedran , Paz Katelyn , Chung Jooho , Du Jing , Perkey Eric T. , Flynn Ryan , Ivcevic Sanja , Zaiken Michael , Friedman Ann , Yan Minhong , Pletneva Maria A. , Sarantopoulos Stefanie , Siebel Christian W. , Blazar Bruce R. , Maillard Ivan
Published: September 2018

There is a Blood Commentary on this article in this issue.
International, evidence-based consensus treatment guidelines for idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease
Authors: van Rhee Frits , Voorhees Peter , Dispenzieri Angela , Fosså Alexander , Srkalovic Gordan , Ide Makoto , Munshi Nikhil , Schey Stephen , Streetly Matthew , Pierson Sheila K. , Partridge Helen L. , Mukherjee Sudipto , Shilling Dustin , Stone Katie , Greenway Amy , Ruth Jason , Lechowicz Mary Jo , Chandrakasan Shanmuganathan , Jayanthan Raj , Jaffe Elaine S. , Leitch Heather , Pemmaraju Naveen , Chadburn Amy , Lim Megan S. , Elenitoba-Johnson Kojo S. , Krymskaya Vera , Goodman Aaron , Hoffmann Christian , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Ferrero Simone , Terriou Louis , Sato Yasuharu , Simpson David , Wong Raymond , Rossi Jean-Francois , Nasta Sunita , Yoshizaki Kazuyuki , Kurzrock Razelle , Uldrick Thomas S. , Casper Corey , Oksenhendler Eric , Fajgenbaum David C.
Published: September 2018

Castleman disease (CD) describes a group of heterogeneous hematologic disorders with characteristic histopathological features. CD can present with unicentric or multicentric (MCD) regions of lymph node enlargement. Some cases of MCD are caused by human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8), whereas others are HHV-8–negative/idiopathic (iMCD). Treatment of iMCD is challenging, and outcomes can be poor because no uniform treatment guidelines exist, few systematic studies have been conducted, and no agreed upon response criteria have been described. The purpose of this paper is to establish consensus, evidence-based treatment guidelines based on the severity of iMCD to improve outcomes. An international Working Group of 42 experts from 10 countries was convened by the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network to establish consensus guidelines for the management of iMCD based on published literature, review of treatment effectiveness for 344 cases, and expert opinion. The anti–interleukin-6 monoclonal antibody siltuximab (or tocilizumab, if siltuximab is not available) with or without corticosteroids is the preferred first-line therapy for iMCD. In the most severe cases, adjuvant combination chemotherapy is recommended. Additional agents are recommended, tailored by disease severity, as second- and third-line therapies for treatment failures. Response criteria were formulated to facilitate the evaluation of treatment failure or success. These guidelines should help treating physicians to stratify patients based on disease severity in order to select the best available therapeutic option. An international registry for patients with CD (ACCELERATE, #NCT02817997) was established in October 2016 to collect patient outcomes to increase the evidence base for selection of therapies in the future.
The impact of robotic intervention on joint attention in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Kumazaki Hirokazu , Yoshikawa Yuichiro , Yoshimura Yuko , Ikeda Takashi , Hasegawa Chiaki , Saito Daisuke N. , Tomiyama Sara , An Kyung-min , Shimaya Jiro , Ishiguro Hiroshi , Matsumoto Yoshio , Minabe Yoshio , Kikuchi Mitsuru
Published: September 2018

Background

A growing body of anecdotal evidence indicates that the use of robots may provide unique opportunities for assisting children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, previous studies investigating the effects of interventions using robots on joint attention (JA) in children with ASD have shown insufficient results. The robots used in these studies could not turn their eyes, which was a limitation preventing the robot from resembling a human agent.

Methods

We compared the behavior of children with ASD with that of children with typical development (TD) during a JA elicitation task while the children interacted with either a human or a robotic agent. We used the robot “CommU,” which has clear eyes and can turn its eyes, for the robotic intervention. The age range of the participants was limited to 5–6 years.

Results

Sixty-eight participants participated in this study, including 30 (10 females and 20 males) children with ASD and 38 (13 females and 25 males) children with TD. The participants were randomly assigned to one of the following two groups: the robotic intervention group or the control group. JA in the children with ASD was better during the robotic intervention than during the human agent intervention. These children exhibited improved performance in the JA task with human after interacting with the robot CommU. JA was differentially facilitated by the human and robotic agents between the ASD and TD children.

Conclusions

The findings of this study significantly contribute to the literature on the impact of robots on JA and provide information regarding the suitability of specific robot types for therapeutic use.
Application of metabolomics to drug discovery and understanding the mechanisms of action of medicinal plants with anti‐tuberculosis activity
Authors: Tuyiringire Naasson , Tusubira Deusdedit , Munyampundu Jean‐Pierre , Tolo Casim Umba , Muvunyi Claude M. , Ogwang Patrick Engeu
Published: September 2018

Human tuberculosis (TB) is amongst the oldest and deadliest human bacterial diseases that pose major health, social and economic burden at a global level. Current regimens for TB treatment are lengthy, expensive and ineffective to emerging drug resistant strains. Thus, there is an urgent need for identification and development of novel TB drugs and drug regimens with comprehensive and specific mechanisms of action. Many medicinal plants are traditionally used for TB treatment. While some of their phytochemical composition has been elucidated, their mechanisms of action are not well understood. Insufficient knowledge on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) biology and the complex nature of its infection limit the effectiveness of current screening‐based methods used for TB drug discovery. Nonetheless, application of metabolomics tools within the ‘omics’ approaches, could provide an alternative method of elucidating the mechanism of action of medicinal plants. Metabolomics aims at high throughput detection, quantification and identification of metabolites in biological samples. Changes in the concentration of specific metabolites in a biological sample indicate changes in the metabolic pathways. In this paper review and discuss novel methods that involve application of metabolomics to drug discovery and the understanding of mechanisms of action of medicinal plants with anti‐TB activity. Current knowledge on TB infection, anti‐TB drugs and mechanisms of action are also included. We further highlight metabolism of M. tuberculosis and the potential drug targets, as well as current approaches in the development of anti‐TB drugs.
Criminal background and job performance
Authors: Minor Dylan , Persico Nicola , Weiss Deborah M.
Published: September 2018

Job applicants with criminal records are much less likely than others to obtain legitimate employment. Recent efforts to address this problem include campaigns to persuade employers to hire applicants with a record voluntarily and legislation such as Ban the Box laws. The success of any remedial strategy depends on whether employer concerns are founded on an accurate view of how employees with a criminal background behave on the job if hired. Little empirical evidence now exists to answer this question. This paper attempts to fill this gap by examining firm-level hiring practices and worker-level performance outcomes. Our data indicate that individuals with criminal records have a much longer tenure and are less likely to quit their jobs voluntarily than other workers. Some results, however, differ by job: sales employees with a criminal record have a higher tendency than other workers to leave because of misconduct, while this effect is smaller and less significant for customer service workers. By examining psychometric data, we find evidence that bad outcomes for sales people with records may be driven by job rather than employee characteristics. We find some evidence that psychometric testing might provide a substitute for the use of criminal records, but that it would not in our own sample.
Automatic nonhyperbolic velocity analysis by polynomial chaos expansion
Authors: Abbasi Mostafa , Gholami Ali
Published: September 2018

Seismic velocity analysis is one of the most crucial and, at the same time, the most laborious tasks during seismic data processing. This becomes even more difficult and time-consuming when nonhyperbolicity has to be considered in the velocity analysis. Nonhyperbolic velocity analysis provides very useful information during the processing and interpretation of seismic data. The most common approach for considering anisotropy during velocity analysis is to describe the moveout based on a nonhyperbolic equation. The nonhyperbolic moveout equation in vertically transverse isotropic (VTI) media is defined by two parameters: normal moveout (NMO) velocity [Formula: see text] and anellipticity [Formula: see text] (or horizontal velocity [Formula: see text]). We have developed a new approach based on polynomial chaos (PC) expansion for automating nonhyperbolic velocity analysis of common-midpoint (CMP) data in VTI media. For this purpose, we use the PC expansion to approximate the nonhyperbolic semblance function with a very fast-to-simulate function in terms of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Then, using particle swarm optimization, we stochastically look for the optimum NMO and horizontal velocities that provide the maximum semblance. In contrary to common approaches for nonhyperbolic velocity analysis in which the two parameters are estimated iteratively in an alternating fashion, we find [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] simultaneously. This approach is tested on various data including a simple convolutional model, an anisotropic benchmark model, and a real data set. In all cases, the new method provided acceptable results. Reflections in the CMP corrected using the optimum velocities are properly flattened, and almost no residual moveout is observed.
Prevalence of depression and anxiety in older patients with multiple myeloma in North Carolina: A population-based, claims-based assessment.
Authors: Copeland Anureet , Freeman Ashley , Baggett Christopher , Zhou Lei , Shea Thomas C. , Tuchman Sascha Alexander , Wood William Allen
Published: September 2018

10048

Background: Patients (pts) with multiple myeloma (MM) experience physical symptoms and complications from disease or treatment that include bone pain, fatigue, anorexia, and insomnia. However, the prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities and their impact on short and long-term outcomes has been understudied. The aim of this analysis was to identify the prevalence of anxiety and depression in older pts with MM in the state of North Carolina. We also sought to evaluate if comorbid depression and anxiety impacted short and long-term outcomes in these patients. Methods: Using the University of North Carolina Integrated Cancer Information and Surveillance System (ICISS), we retrospectively identified a statewide cohort of 536 pts (ages 65-80) diagnosed with MM from 2006-2012 who had continuous enrollment in Medicare or Medicaid. Patients were identified through insurance claims by ICD-9 diagnosis codes for anxiety or depression or antidepressant medications filed at any time from 6 months prior to MM diagnosis to 12 months after MM diagnosis. Results: The mean age of pts in the cohort was 72 years. Pts were 68% non-Hispanic white, 42% rural, and 51% male. Of the 536 pts, 200 (37%) had a diagnosis of anxiety or depression and/or were being treated with an antidepressant. 54% of those with psychiatric comorbidity had a relevant diagnosis or medication in the 6 months prior to MM diagnosis. Of those with psychiatric comorbidities, 70% were diagnosed with fatigue and 57% were diagnosed with pain. In multivariate analysis, there was no association of psychiatric comorbidity with mortality (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.83-1.28), but psychiatric comorbidity was associated with an increased likelihood of hospitalization or ER visit (RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.05-1.30) and increased opiate use within 1 year after diagnosis (RR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.27-2.16). Conclusions: The presence of psychiatric comorbidity identifies a subset of older MM pts at risk for high symptom burden and increased health care utilization. The association of psychiatric comorbidity with increased opiate use in cancer pts may also have public health implications.
The impact of sleep disturbances (SD) on quality of life, psychological morbidity, and survival of advanced cancer patients (ACP) and caregivers (CG).
Authors: Hlubocky Fay J. , Sher Tamara , Cella David , Yap Bonnie J. , Ratain Mark J. , Peppercorn Jeffery , Daugherty Christopher
Published: September 2018

10115

Background: SD have been described as a significant symptom burden for cancer patients and their caregivers. However, in advanced cancer, the prevalence of SD and its impact on the quality of life (QOL) and psychological morbidity of ACP over time has not been described. Methods: A prospective cohort of ACP participating in phase I trials was assessed at baseline (T1) and one month (T2) using psychosocial instruments: cognition (MMSE); depression(CES-D), state anxiety (STAI-S), QOL(FACIT-Pal), global health (SF-36). Semi-structured interviews evaluated SD patterns including: quality/latency, habitual efficiency, daytime dysfunction. Results: To date,152 subjects (76 ACP and 76 CG) have been separately interviewed at T1 and T2. For the total population: median age 61 (28-78y); 51% male; 100% married; 90% Ca; 64% > HS educ; 52% GI dx; 51% income < $65,000 yr; ACP median survival 7.9 months (0.41-18.2). At T1, 57% of ACP reported experiencing SD within the past week including: 55.6% insomnia, 44% nonrestorative sleep, 49% low energy, 48% daytime somnolence. For CG, 72% reported experiencing SD: 68% insomnia, 64% nonrestorative sleep, 69% fatigue, 66% daytime somnolence. At T2, rates remained consistent over time for both ACP and CG across time with the exception of increased insomnia at 61% and 76% respectively. After controlling for pain, mood, and fatigue, ACP with self-reported SD had higher STAI-S (33 ±11 v 29 ±8 , p = 0.02) and poor global health (54 ± 19 v. 64 ± 21, p = 0.01) at T2. CG with SD had higher STAI-S anxiety (39 ± 17 v 35 ± 13, p = 0.03) and poor global health (75 ±26 v 88±16, p = .0002) at T2.Regression analyses revealed ACP with self-reported insomnia had poorer FACIT-Pal QOL (59 ± 9 v 63 ± 10, p = 0.01) over time. Prior chemotherapy was associated with ACP SD (70% v. 33%, p = 0.02). Regarding prognosis, ACP with insomnia had shorter median survival (5.5 v. 7.2 months, p = 0.01). Conclusions: SD are prevalent among ACP participating in clinical trials and were associated with disease progression, QOL, and anxiety. Multidisciplinary supportive care interventions designed to address SD are warranted.
Impact of 2013 ASCO/CAP guidelines on HER2 determination of invasive breast cancer: A single institution experience using frontline dual-color FISH.
Authors: Gasparini Elisa , Ragazzi Moira , Bisagni Alessandra , Kuhn Elisabetta , Bassano Cristina , Tamagnini Ione , Foroni Moira , Falco Giuseppe , Ferrari Guglielmo , Braglia Luca , Savoldi Luisa , Bologna Alessandra , di Cicilia Roberto , Gardini Giorgio , Bisagni Giancarlo
Published: September 2018

1028

Background: ASCO/CAP new guidelines published in 2013 (AC2013) significantly modified the scoring criteria for HER2-FISH. We retrospectively evaluated the impact of AC2013 in a five-year cohort of consecutive invasive breast cancers (IBCs) underwent frontline dual-color FISH. Furthermore, we applied three different reflex tests and investigated clinical outcomes of patients with HER2-equivocal IBC. Methods: 2788 consecutive IBCs that underwent frontline HER2/CEP17 determination in our institution from January 2009 to December 2013 were reclassified based on the AC2013 guidelines. FISH HER2-equivocal cases underwent reflex tests: HER2-IHC, RARA-FISH, and SMS-FISH. Clinico-pathological correlation was performed. Results: Two hundred HER2-negative cases (7.2%) were classified differently based on the AC2013: 0.3% (8/2788) became HER2-positive and 6.9% (192/2788) HER2-equivocal. AC2013 equivocal-IBCs represented a subgroup of grade 3, luminal-like subtype IBCs, in patients with a higher age. After reflex tests, among 190 equivocal cases 102 (53.7%) were reclassified as HER2-positive, 51 (26.8%) negative and 37 (19.5%) equivocal. IHC resulted negative in 44.7% (85), whereas SMS-FISH showed the highest percentage of positive results (45.8%). No statistically significant differences were identified in the disease-free and overall survival. Conclusions: AC2013 compared with AC2007 significantly increased initial HER2-equivocal cases (6.9%vs1.6%, p < 0.001). After reflex testing, 4.5% of patients not treated with anti-HER2 therapy (either HER2-positive or “ultimate equivocal”) resulted eligible to trastuzumab, but showed clinical outcome comparable with AC2007 HER2-positive patients, treated with trastuzumab. Our findings belittle the clinical impact of AC2013 HER2-equivocal reclassification; accordingly further studies are necessary to justify this category and the reclassification efforts by additional reflex tests.