bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Comparison of Lumbar Motion Unit Stability Following Posterior Instrumentation with Facet Spacers and Facet Screws
Authors: Liu Mu-Yi , Tsai Tsung-Ting , Chen Lih-Huei , Liang Wen-Huang , Lai Po-Liang , Tai Ching-Lung
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Lumbar posterior instrumentation for facet stabilization has become popular for the treatment of lumbar instability. The present study investigated and compared facet stabilization following lumbar posterior instrumentation with facet spacers and facet screws using porcine lumbar spines.

Methods

Eighteen L5–L6 lumbar motion units (LMUs) of the porcine spines were randomly divided into three groups (un-instrumented, facet-spacer and facet-screw). In the un-instrumented group (control), all ligamentous structures were preserved. In the facet-spacer group, two facet spacers were inserted into the joint spaces of the bilateral upper and lower facets. In the facet-screw group, two cannulated screws were used to transfix the bilateral upper and lower facets. With the use of a material testing machine, a gradually increasing moment of up to 6000 N-mm was generated in flexion, extension, lateral bending and torsion motions to compare facet stabilization among the groups.

Results

The facet-spacer group was significantly stiffer than the facet-screw group in extension (p = 0.013), whereas the facet-screw group was significantly stiffer than the facet-spacer group in axial rotation (p = 0.004). No statistically significant differences were observed between the two fixation techniques in flexion (p = 0.284) and lateral bending (p = 0.085).

Conclusion

Both facet-spacer and facet-screw fixation techniques significantly improve stability in a single LMU. Facet-spacer fixation provided better stabilization in extension, while facet-screw fixation provided better stabilization in axial rotation.
Incidence of dementia in the oldest‐old and its relationship with age: The Monzino 80‐plus population‐based study
Authors: Lucca Ugo , Tettamanti Mauro , Tiraboschi Pietro , Logroscino Giancarlo , Landi Cristina , Sacco Leonardo , Garrì Mariateresa , Ammesso Sonia , Biotti Anna , Gargantini Elena , Piedicorcia Alessandro , Mandelli Sara , Riva Emma , Galbussera Alessia A. , Recchia Angela
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Relationship between age and dementia at extreme old ages is still an open question, yet population‐based studies in this high‐risk age segment are rare.

Methods

The Monzino 80‐plus is a population‐based study among residents 80 years and older in the Varese province, Italy. Of 1371 eligible individuals, 1294 (94.4%), of whom 64 are centenarians, were included in the incidence study.

Results

Since 2002, 584 new cases of all‐cause dementia were identified over 15 years. The overall incidence rate was 7.9 per 100 person‐years. Dementia risk rose with age (IRR: 1.06), with the cubic model providing the best fit (R2 = 0.91–0.96). Cumulative incidences of dementia unadjusted and adjusted for competing mortality risk progressively diverged with age.

Conclusion

Dementia incidence also keeps rising in nonagenarians and centenarians. Slowing down in growing risk of developing dementia with age is mainly attributable to increasing competing risk of death and resulting selective survival of individuals at lower risk of dementia.
The Spillover Effect of Marketing Discolored Beef on Consumer Preferences for Nondiscolored Beef
Authors: Feuz Ryan , Norwood F. Bailey , Ramanathan Ranjith
Published: November 2019

Consumers prefer bright, cherry-red retail beef. Retailers often mark down the price of discolored beef for quick sale. However, following this practice could result in a net loss of revenue if consumer willingness to pay (WTP) for nondiscolored beef is negatively affected by the presence of discolored beef in the consumer choice set. Through a hypothetical online survey and a controlled in-person experiment, we determine that marketing discolored beef together with nondiscolored beef increases most consumers’ evaluation of, but not their WTP for, nondiscolored beef.
Thunder Versus Lightning: A Performance and Cost Analysis of the A-10 “Warthog” Versus the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter
Authors: Green John , Zeckhauser Richard
Published: November 2019

For decades, the U.S. Air Force has contemplated replacing the A-10 Thunderbolt II “Warthog” with a newer fighter aircraft. However, a quantitative analysis comparing the Warthog’s performance and costs with those of its intended replacement, the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, shows that retiring the Warthog would be operationally unsound and fiscally imprudent. The rationale for the replacement is that it would increase airpower capability while controlling costs. That rationale does not withstand scrutiny. An effectiveness analysis based on results from a survey of joint terminal attack controllers indicates that the A-10 vastly outperforms the F-35 in providing close-air support (CAS), a critical requirement for future conflicts against terrorists and insurgents. A cost analysis demonstrates that replacing the A-10 before its service life ends in 2035 would cost at least $20.9 billion. The replacement plan would waste substantial resources and seriously impair U.S. military capabilities. Given that constrained future budgets and low-intensity conflicts requiring precision CAS can be expected, the U.S. air fleet should include the A-10 Thunderbolt II.
Catching Up Is Hard to Do: Undergraduate Prestige, Elite Graduate Programs, and the Earnings Premium
Authors: Hersch Joni
Published: November 2019

A commonly held perception is that an elite graduate degree can “scrub” a less prestigious but less costly undergraduate degree. Using data from the National Survey of College Graduates from 2003 to 2017, this article examines the relationship between the status of undergraduate degrees and earnings among those with elite postbaccalaureate degrees. Few graduates of non-selective institutions earn postbaccalaureate degrees from elite institutions, and even when they do, undergraduate institutional prestige continues to be positively related to earnings overall as well as among those with specific postbaccalaureate degrees including business, law, medicine, and doctoral. Among those who earn a graduate degree from an elite institution, the present value of the earnings advantage to having both an undergraduate and a graduate degree from an elite institution generally greatly exceeds any likely cost advantage from attending a less prestigious undergraduate institution.
State liability for ‘politically’ motivated conduct in the investment treaty regime
Authors: Bonnitcha Jonathan , Williams Zoe Phillips
Published: November 2019

In framing investment treaty claims against host states, foreign investors routinely assert that the state’s conduct was ‘politically’ motivated. Arbitral tribunals must then grapple with these allegations. Yet, tribunals lack both a coherent conception of what constitutes politically motivated conduct and a consistent understanding of the relevance, if any, of such motivations for the disposition of an investor’s legal claims. This uncertainty points to an underlying tension within the investment treaty regime between the protection of investors’ interests on the one hand, and the legitimate scope for democratic decision-making and responsive politics on the other.

Using concepts drawn from political science, we develop a new framework to map the variety of conduct that tribunals characterize as ‘political’. Our framework draws attention to different types of influence over government decision-making, as well as differences between government actors responsible for the conduct. We use this framework to show that tribunals have adopted different conceptions of what constitutes illegitimate political influence over government decision-making in factually similar cases. We then evaluate tribunals’ competing approaches in light of normative theories spanning both public law and private law. Engaging with multiple normative theories allows us to examine whether tribunals’ different approaches to politically motivated conduct might reflect diverse underlying normative commitments. We argue, however, that many arbitral tribunals demonstrate a reflexive distrust of domestic political contestation that is difficult to justify within any of the theories that we consider.
Climate risk reporting practices by UK insurance companies and pension schemes
Authors: Klumpes P. , Acharyya M. , Kakar G. , Sturgess E.
Published: November 2019

Increasing global concern over the impact of climate change has recently led to public scrutiny over the adequacy of existing risk management practices by insurance companies and pension schemes in dealing with these challenges that potentially impact both individual actuaries and the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries generally. Most recently, the Prudential Regulation Authority has issued further guidance concerning its expectations for the UK insurance industry regarding the development of an approach to disclosure on and management of the financial risks from climate change, while a Parliamentary Committee has demanded public clarification from UK pension scheme trustees regarding their degree of engagement with incorporating climate-related financial risks into their investment decision-making. The aim of this paper is to identify the dominating factors of the current evolvement of UK insurance companies’ and pension schemes’ climate risk disclosure practices. This paper analyses both the nature and extent of changes in the risk reporting practices of these entities that have evolved in order to meet these demands for increased accountability. We first analyse relevant sections of latest annual reports produced by a sample of 15 UK insurance companies and 15 pension schemes. We find only limited alignment of insurance firm and pension scheme annual reports with the 11 specific Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosure’s (TCFD) recommended disclosures. We also examine what key financial risk and/or other organisational characteristics are most closely associated with the degree of alignment with TCFD specified disclosures related to governance, strategy, risk management and performance metrics. We find that incentives facing sample insurance companies to align their climate-related disclosures with TCFD recommendations are related to their management of reputation risk (measured on the basis of size and type of business). Whereas the incentives facing pension schemes are related to the desire to reduce information asymmetry (measured by liability risk) among their stakeholders concerning this issue. Further, consistent with a stakeholder theory explanation, it appears that only a minority of large, publicly listed insurance companies and large local government pension schemes are taking action to report on their actions to mitigate climate risk. We also discuss examples of best practice climate risk reporting. The implications for the actuarial profession in engaging with climate risk are discussed in line with the findings of the study.
Slowly but surely: Interpreting facilitates L2 morphological anticipation based on suprasegmental and segmental information
Authors: Lozano-Argüelles Cristina , Sagarra Nuria , Casillas Joseph V.
Published: November 2019

Native speakers use suprasegmental information to predict words, but less is known about segmental information. Moreover, anticipatory studies with non-native speakers are scarce and mix proficiency with anticipatory experience. To address these limitations, we investigated whether Spanish monolinguals and advanced English learners of Spanish use suprasegmentals (stress: oxytone, paroxytone) and segmentals (syllabic structure: CVC, CV) to predict word suffixes, and whether increased anticipatory experience acquired via interpreting will facilitate anticipation in non-interpreting L2 situations. Eye-tracking data revealed that: (1) the three groups made use of the linguistic variables, and L2 groups did not anticipate in CV paroxytones; (2) everybody anticipated better with the less frequent conditions (oxytones, CVC) having fewer lexical competitors; (3) monolinguals anticipated earlier than L2 learners; and (4) interpreters anticipated at a faster rate in some conditions. These findings indicate that less frequent suprasegmental and segmental information and anticipatory experience facilitate native and non-native spoken word prediction.
POWERS OF COMPOSITION OPERATORS: ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOUR ON BERGMAN, DIRICHLET AND BLOCH SPACES
Authors: ARENDT W. , CHALENDAR I. , KUMAR M. , SRIVASTAVA S.
Published: November 2019

We study the asymptotic behaviour of the powers of a composition operator on various Banach spaces of holomorphic functions on the disc, namely, standard weighted Bergman spaces (finite and infinite order), Bloch space, little Bloch space, Bloch-type space and Dirichlet space. Moreover, we give a complete characterization of those composition operators that are similar to an isometry on these various Banach spaces. We conclude by studying the asymptotic behaviour of semigroups of composition operators on these various Banach spaces.
Herzinsuffizienz in Afrika?
Authors: Rohacek Martin , Burkard Thilo
Published: November 2019

Zusammenfassung. Die Mortalität durch Herzinsuffizienz ist in Afrika doppelt so hoch wie in anderen Ländern mit niedrigem oder mittlerem Einkommen und fünfmal so hoch wie in der westlichen Welt. Die häufigste Ursache einer Herzinsuffizienz ist die arterielle Hypertonie, gefolgt von Kardiomyopathien und rheumatischer Herzkrankheit. Bei der Diagnosestellung liegt meist schon eine fortgeschrittene Herzerkrankung vor. Gerade bezüglich der arteriellen Hypertonie sind sich nur wenige ihrer Krankheit bewusst, noch weniger sind behandelt, und die wenigsten haben eine gut kontrollierte Hypertonie. Die Vernachlässigung von chronischen, nicht-übertragbaren Krankheiten in Afrika führt zu ungenügendem Wissen, ungenügenden diagnostischen Mitteln, ungenügender Prävention und limitierten Behandlungsmöglichkeiten, sodass die üblichen in den Industrieländern angewandten Richtlinien kaum umsetzbar sind. Aufklärung der Bevölkerung über Prävention und Behandlung, Ausbildung des Gesundheitspersonals, Implementierung von diagnostischen Mitteln und die Behandlung von Hypertonie und Herzinsuffizienz sind dringend notwendig.
Our Greatest Challenges Require Science, Not Silence
Authors: Tonko Paul
Published: November 2019

If we are to face the challenges posed by political misconduct and a changing planet, scientists need to be at the table, and in the streets, to advocate for their work.
Validation of Microphysical Snow Models Using In Situ, Multifrequency, and Dual‐Polarization Radar Measurements in Finland
Authors: Tyynelä J. , von Lerber Annakaisa
Published: November 2019

As complex forward models for snow have become common in radar‐based retrievals, there is a demand to validate these models in different environments. In this study, we perform a qualitative, general validation for nine different snow models that have been published and are available to users. The chosen models span a variety of different snow types, such as aggregates, rimed aggregates, melted aggregates, graupel, and single crystals, mainly because these particles are commonly observed in the Finnish climate. Fitted power law formulas for mass, fall velocity, aspect ratio, and area ratio are compared between the models and 5‐year winter measurements in the Hyytiälä forestry field station in Finland. We also compare the backscattering properties of the models to triple‐frequency dual‐polarization radar measurements during the Biogenic Aerosols Effects on Clouds and Climate campaign in 2014. We find that the denser models, regardless of the exact shapes, fit the in situ measurements best due to the prevalence of rime in the falling snow. However, when comparing also to the triple‐frequency radar measurements at X, Ka, and W bands, and the linear depolarization ratio at Ka band, the physical snow models fit overall better than the empirical ones.
Influence of Incoming Plate Relief on Overriding Plate Deformation and Earthquake Nucleation: Cocos Ridge Subduction (Costa Rica)
Authors: Martínez‐Loriente Sara , Sallarès Valentí , R. Ranero César , B. Ruh Jonas , Barckhausen Udo , Grevemeyer Ingo , Bangs Nathan
Published: November 2019

We present a 2‐D P wave velocity model and a coincident multichannel seismic reflection profile characterizing the structure of the southern Costa Rica margin and incoming Cocos Ridge. The seismic profiles image the ocean and overriding plates from the trench across the entire offshore margin, including the structures involved in the 2002 Osa earthquake. The overriding plate consists of three domains: Domain I displays thin‐skinned deformation of an imbricate thrust system composed of fractured rocks. Domain II shows ~15‐km‐long landward dipping reflection packages and active deformation of the shelf sediment. Domain III is little fractured and appears to be dominated by elastic deformation, overlain by ~2‐km‐thick landward dipping strata. The velocity structure supports the argument that the bulk of the margin is highly consolidated rock. Thick‐skinned tectonics probably causes the uplift of Domains II and III. The oceanic plate shows crustal thickness variations from ~14 km at the trench (Cocos Ridge) to 6–7 km beneath the shelf. We combine (1) interplate geometry and fracturing degree, (2) tectonic stresses and brittle strain, and (3) earthquake locations, to investigate relationships between structure and earthquake generation. The 2002 Osa sequence nucleated at the leading flank of subducting seamounts in the area of highest tectonic overpressure. Both estimated rock fracturing and modeled brittle strain steadily increase from the leading flank of the subducting seamounts to their top, reflecting the progressive damage caused by the seamount. Therefore, the seismicity and structural‐mechanical evolution of the upper plate reflect the downward propagation of the leading edge of seamounts.
Prior cocaine self-administration impairs attention signals in anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Vázquez Daniela , Pribut Heather J. , Burton Amanda C. , Tennyson Stephen S. , Roesch Matthew R.
Published: November 2019

Although maladaptive decision-making is a defining feature of drug abuse and addiction, we have yet to ascertain how cocaine self-administration disrupts neural signals in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a brain region thought to contribute to attentional control. To address this issue, rats were trained on a reward-guided decision-making task; reward value was manipulated by independently varying the size of or the delay to reward over several trial blocks. Subsequently, rats self-administered either a cocaine (experimental group) or sucrose (control) during 12 consecutive days, after which they underwent a 1-month withdrawal period. Upon completion of this period, rats performed the previously learned reward-guided decision-making task while we recorded from single neurons in ACC. We demonstrate that prior cocaine self-administration attenuates attention and attention-related ACC signals in an intake-dependent manner, and that changes in attention are decoupled from ACC firing. These effects likely contribute to the impaired decision-making—typified by chronic substance abuse and relapse—observed after drug use.
Exosomal secretion of a psychosis-altered miRNA that regulates glutamate receptor expression is affected by antipsychotics
Authors: Amoah Stephen K. , Rodriguez Brian A. , Logothetis Constantine N. , Chander Praveen , Sellgren Carl M. , Weick Jason P. , Sheridan Steven D. , Jantzie Lauren L. , Webster Maree J. , Mellios Nikolaos
Published: November 2019

The ability of small secretory microvesicles known as exosomes to influence neuronal and glial function via their microRNA (miRNA) cargo has positioned them as a novel and effective method of cell-to-cell communication. However, little is known about the role of exosome-secreted miRNAs in the regulation of glutamate receptor gene expression and their relevance for schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BD). Using mature miRNA profiling and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) of SCZ (N = 29; 20 male and 9 female), BD (N = 26; 12 male and 14 female), and unaffected control (N = 25; 21 male and 4 female) subjects, we uncovered that miR-223, an exosome-secreted miRNA that targets glutamate receptors, was increased at the mature miRNA level in the OFC of SCZ and BD patients with positive history of psychosis at the time of death and was inversely associated with deficits in the expression of its targets glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA-type subunit 2B (GRIN2B) and glutamate ionotropic receptor AMPA-type subunit 2 (GRIA2). Furthermore, changes in miR-223 levels in the OFC were positively and negatively correlated with inflammatory and GABAergic gene expression, respectively. Moreover, miR-223 was found to be enriched in astrocytes and secreted via exosomes, and antipsychotics were shown to control its cellular and exosomal localization in a cell-specific manner. Furthermore, addition of astrocytic exosomes in neuronal cultures resulted in a significant increase in miR-223 expression and a notable reduction in Grin2b and Gria2 mRNA levels, which was strongly inversely associated with miR-223 expression. Lastly, inhibition of astrocytic miR-223 abrogated the exosomal-mediated reduction in neuronal Grin2b expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the exosomal secretion of a psychosis-altered and glial-enriched miRNA that controls neuronal gene expression is regulated by antipsychotics.
FKBPL-based peptide, ALM201, targets angiogenesis and cancer stem cells in ovarian cancer
Authors: Annett Stephanie , Moore Gillian , Short Amy , Marshall Andrea , McCrudden Cian , Yakkundi Anita , Das Sudipto , McCluggage W. Glenn , Nelson Laura , Harley Ian , Moustafa Nermeen , Kennedy Catherine J. , deFazio Anna , Brand Alison , Sharma Raghwa , Brennan Donal , O’Toole Sharon , O’Leary John , Bates Mark , O’Riain Ciarán , O’Connor Darran , Furlong Fiona , McCarthy Helen , Kissenpfennig Adrien , McClements Lana , Robson Tracy
Published: November 2019

Background

ALM201 is a therapeutic peptide derived from FKBPL that has previously undergone preclinical and clinical development for oncology indications and has completed a Phase 1a clinical trial in ovarian cancer patients and other advanced solid tumours.

Methods

In vitro, cancer stem cell (CSC) assays in a range of HGSOC cell lines and patient samples, and in vivo tumour initiation, growth delay and limiting dilution assays, were utilised. Mechanisms were determined by using immunohistochemistry, ELISA, qRT-PCR, RNAseq and western blotting. Endogenous FKBPL protein levels were evaluated using tissue microarrays (TMA).

Results

ALM201 reduced CSCs in cell lines and primary samples by inducing differentiation. ALM201 treatment of highly vascularised Kuramochi xenografts resulted in tumour growth delay by disruption of angiogenesis and a ten-fold decrease in the CSC population. In contrast, ALM201 failed to elicit a strong antitumour response in non-vascularised OVCAR3 xenografts, due to high levels of IL-6 and vasculogenic mimicry. High endogenous tumour expression of FKBPL was associated with an increased progression-free interval, supporting the protective role of FKBPL in HGSOC.

Conclusion

FKBPL-based therapy can (i) dually target angiogenesis and CSCs, (ii) target the CD44/STAT3 pathway in tumours and (iii) is effective in highly vascularised HGSOC tumours with low levels of IL-6.
Recent population genomic insights into the genetic basis of arsenic tolerance in humans: the difficulties of identifying positively selected loci in strongly bottlenecked populations
Authors: Apata Mario , Pfeifer Susanne P.
Published: November 2019

Recent advances in genomics have enabled researchers to shed light on the evolutionary processes driving human adaptation, by revealing the genetic architectures underlying traits ranging from lactase persistence, to skin pigmentation, to hypoxic response, to arsenic tolerance. Complicating the identification of targets of positive selection in modern human populations is their complex demographic history, characterized by population bottlenecks and expansions, population structure, migration, and admixture. In particular, founder effects and recent strong population size reductions, such as those experienced by the indigenous peoples of the Americas, have severe impacts on genetic variation that can lead to the accumulation of large allele frequency differences between populations due to genetic drift rather than natural selection. While distinguishing the effects of demographic history from selection remains challenging, neglecting neutral processes can lead to the incorrect identification of candidate loci. We here review the recent population genomic insights into the genetic basis of arsenic tolerance in Andean populations, and utilize this example to highlight both the difficulties pertaining to the identification of local adaptations in strongly bottlenecked populations, as well as the importance of controlling for demographic history in selection scans.
A revised model for promoter competition based on multi-way chromatin interactions at the α-globin locus
Authors: Oudelaar A. Marieke , Harrold Caroline L. , Hanssen Lars L. P. , Telenius Jelena M. , Higgs Douglas R. , Hughes Jim R.
Published: November 2019

Specific communication between gene promoters and enhancers is critical for accurate regulation of gene expression. However, it remains unclear how specific interactions between multiple regulatory elements contained within a single chromatin domain are coordinated. Recent technological advances which can detect multi-way chromatin interactions at single alleles can provide insights into how multiple regulatory elements cooperate or compete for transcriptional activation. Here, we use such an approach to investigate how interactions of the α-globin enhancers are distributed between multiple promoters in a mouse model in which the α-globin domain is extended to include several additional genes. Our data show that gene promoters do not form mutually exclusive interactions with enhancers, but all interact simultaneously in a single complex. These findings suggest that promoters do not structurally compete for interactions with enhancers, but form a regulatory hub structure, which is consistent with recent models of transcriptional activation occurring in non-membrane bound nuclear compartments.
A rotary plasmonic nanoclock
Authors: Xin Ling , Zhou Chao , Duan Xiaoyang , Liu Na
Published: November 2019

One of the fundamental challenges in nanophotonics is to gain full control over nanoscale optical elements. The precise spatiotemporal arrangement determines their interactions and collective behavior. To this end, DNA nanotechnology is employed as an unprecedented tool to create nanophotonic devices with excellent spatial addressability and temporal programmability. However, most of the current DNA-assembled nanophotonic devices can only reconfigure among random or very few defined states. Here, we demonstrate a DNA-assembled rotary plasmonic nanoclock. In this system, a rotor gold nanorod can carry out directional and reversible 360° rotation with respect to a stator gold nanorod, transitioning among 16 well-defined configurations powered by DNA fuels. The full-turn rotation process is monitored by optical spectroscopy in real time. We further demonstrate autonomous rotation of the plasmonic nanoclock powered by DNAzyme-RNA interactions. Such assembly approaches pave a viable route towards advanced nanophotonic systems entirely from the bottom-up.
A clinical trial to evaluate the effect of the Mediterranean diet on smokers lung function
Authors: Martín-Luján Francisco , Catalin Roxana-Elena , Salamanca-González Patricia , Sorlí-Aguilar Mar , Santigosa-Ayala Antoni , Valls-Zamora Rosa Maria , Martín-Vergara Núria , Canela-Armengol Teresa , Arija-Val Victoria , Solà-Alberich Rosa
Published: November 2019

Data on the association between lung function and some dietary patterns have been published. However, it is not yet well known if whether the Mediterranean Diet (MD) pattern can preserve or improve lung function. Our purpose is to evaluate the effect of increased MD adherence on lung function in smokers. A multicenter, parallel, cluster-randomized, controlled clinical trial is proposed. A total of 566 active smokers (>10 packs-year), aged 25–75 years will be included, without previous respiratory disease and who sign an informed consent to participate. Twenty Primary Care Centres in Tarragona (Spain) will be randomly assigned to a control or an intervention group (1:1). All participants will receive advice to quit smoking, and the intervention group, a nutritional intervention (2 years) designed to increase MD adherence by: (1) annual visit to deliver personalized nutritional education, (2) annual telephone contact to reinforce the intervention, and (3) access to an online dietary blog. We will evaluate (annually for 2 years): pulmonary function by forced spirometry and MD adherence by a 14-item questionnaire and medical tests (oxidation, inflammation and consumption biomarkers). In a statistical analysis by intention-to-treat basis, with the individual smoker as unit of analysis, pulmonary function and MD adherence in both groups will be compared; logistic regression models will be applied to analyze their associations. We hope to observe an increased MD adherence that may prevent the deterioration of lung function in smokers without previous respiratory disease. This population may benefit from a dietary intervention, together with the recommendation of smoking cessation.
Development of ISSR-derived SCAR Marker and SYBR Green I Real-time PCR Method for Detection of Teliospores of Tilletia laevis Kühn
Authors: Yao Zhaoqun , Qin Dandan , Chen Delai , Liu Changzhong , Chen Wanquan , Liu Taiguo , Liu Bo , Gao Li
Published: November 2019

Common bunt, caused by Tilletia laevis Kühn [syn. T. foetida (Wallr) Liro] and Tilletia tritici (Bjerk.) Wint. [syn. T. caries (DC) Tul.], is an important wheat disease worldwide. To quickly differentiate the closely related fungi T. laevis, T. tritici and Tilletia controversa (a pathogen that causes dwarf bunt of wheat and has been requested as a quarantined pathogen in many countries), a rapid diagnostic and detection method for an ISSR molecular marker was developed for the first time in this study. Based on the T. laevis-specific band (1300 bp) amplified by the primer ISSR860, a pair of SCAR primers (L60F/L60R) was designed to amplify a specific 660-bp DNA fragment from the isolates of T. laevis but not other related pathogens. The detection limit of the SCAR marker was 0.4 ng/μl of DNA from T. laevis; moreover, a SYBR Green I real-time PCR method was also successfully developed based on the SCAR marker with the detection limit of 10 fg/μl T. laevis DNA. This is the first report of a rapid, specific and highly sensitive SCAR marker and SYBR Green I real-time PCR method for detection of the teliospores of T. laevis based on ISSR technology. This method allows highly efficient, rapid and accurate differentiation of the pathogen from related pathogens, especially from the very similar pathogens T. tritici and T. controversa.
Prevalence and characterization of breakthrough pain in patients with cancer in Spain: the CARPE-DIO study
Authors: Pérez-Hernández Concepción , Blasco Ana , Gándara Álvaro , Mañas Ana , Rodríguez-López Manuel Jesús , Martínez Vicente , Fernandez-Nistal Alonso , Montoto Carmen
Published: November 2019

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence, characteristics and impact of breakthrough pain (BTP) in patients with cancer attending the main specialties involved in the diagnosis and management of BTP in Spain using a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional, multidisciplinary study. Investigators had to record all patients seen at the clinic during 1 month, determine whether the patients had cancer pain, and apply the Davies algorithm to ascertain whether the patients were suffering from BTP. Of the 3,765 patients with cancer, 1,117 (30%) had cancer-related pain, and of these patients, 539 had BTP (48%, 95%CI:45–51). The highest prevalence was found in patients from palliative care (61%, 95%CI:54–68), and the lowest was found in those from hematology (25%, 95%CI:20–31). Prevalence varied also according to sex and type of tumor. According to the Alberta Breakthrough Pain Assessment Tool duration, timing, frequency, location, severity, quality, causes, and predictability of the BTP varied greatly among these patients. BTP was moderate (Brief Pain Inventory [BPI]-severity median score = 5.3), and pain interference was moderate (BPI-interference median score = 6.1) with a greater interference with normal work, general activity, and enjoyment of life. Patients with BTP showed a mean ± standard deviation score of 28.5 ± 8.0 and 36.9 ± 9.5 in the physical and mental component, respectively, of the SF-12 questionnaire. In conclusion, prevalence of BTP among patients exhibiting cancer-related pain is high. Clinical presentation is heterogeneous, and therefore, BTP cannot be considered as a single entity. However, uniformly BTP has an important impact on a patient’s functionality, which supports the need for early detection and treatment.
Introduction to Diet, Nutrition and Cancer
Authors: Ong T. P. , Moreno F. S.
Published: November 2019

Cancer is a global public health problem that represents a major burden for societies in both developed and developing countries. Among several environmental factors associated with cancer, diet can be highlighted. Dietary factors are associated with decreased (fruits and vegetables, vitamin D, folic acid, selenium, zinc, polyphenols and carotenoids, among others) or increased (red and processed meat, alcohol, saturated fatty acids and obesity, among others) risk for the disease. Accumulated data indicate that the diet, nutrition and cancer association is very complex and several aspects are not yet clear. Examples include the impact of timing of food consumption and the exact mechanisms underlying nutritional factors’ modulation of carcinogenesis. In addition, nutrient–gene interactions (nutritional genomics), including epigenetics, stem cells as cellular targets and the intestinal microbiota, have emerged as key factors that should be considered in order to better understand diet, nutrition and cancer and thus establish nutritional recommendations for cancer prevention.
Bioactive Compounds from Fruits and Vegetables and Cancer Prevention
Authors: Heidor R. , Miranda M. L. P. , Ong T. P. , Moreno F. S.
Published: November 2019

Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with cancer prevention. The World Cancer Research Fund recommends daily ingestion of at least 400 g of plant-based foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans. The protective effects of these foods have been associated with the presence of bioactive food compounds. These are produced through secondary metabolism in plants and present distinct chemical and biological features. Examples include sulforaphane (broccoli), lycopene (tomatoes), catechins (green tea), allyl compounds (garlic), terpenoids (citrus fruits) and genistein (soy). These compounds have been shown to modulate several cellular and molecular targets deregulated in carcinogenesis. The potential cancer preventive potential of bioactive food compounds is discussed in this chapter.
Selenium and Cancer Prevention
Authors: Donadio J. L. S. , Rogero M. M. , Ong T. P.
Published: November 2019

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for human biology that exerts its functions as the amino acid selenocysteine, which is inserted into selenoproteins with a wide range of important functions for the human organism, such as antioxidant, immune-modulatory, thyroid metabolism and male fertility functions. There is accumulating epidemiological evidence linking Se supplementation of non-Se deficient subjects and reduced cancer risk. The doses used in these trials are above those recommended for maximal selenoprotein expression, and thus, alternative mechanisms of action that are independent of selenoprotein activities have been proposed. Several factors might explain the different results obtained from human clinical trials, such as the baseline Se status and the genetic variation of the study population. In this chapter, we discuss selenium’s cancer prevention potential, focusing on human evidence and potential cellular and molecular mechanisms, as well as emerging topics such as the importance of epigenetics and genetic polymorphisms that modify breast, prostate and colorectal cancer risk.
Red and Processed Meat Consumption and Cancer Risk
Authors: Rossi B. M. , Ferreira F. O. , Toporcov T. N.
Published: November 2019

Diets rich in red and processed meats have been associated with the carcinogenesis of different cancers. At present, the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF)/American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) have determined that high processed meat consumption convincingly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. In this chapter, we discuss epidemiological evidence for the association between red and processed meat consumption and high risk of some types of cancers, as well as the proposed underlying mechanisms. Red and processed meat consumption is positively associated with cancer in several subsites (with strongest results found for colorectal cancer), and this association seems to be related to heme iron, nitrate, and heterocyclic amines. Epidemiological studies on the effect of red and processed meat on cancer incidence in populations have provided evidence of the benefits of a reduced intake of these food items. Conversely, an increasing trend for red meat intake has been seen in developing countries, representing a challenge for cancer control.
Dietary Patterns and Cancer Risk
Authors: Marchioni D. M.
Published: November 2019

Dietary patterns can be defined as the quantities, proportions, variety or combination of different foods and drinks in diets, and the frequency with which they are habitually consumed. In recent years, the analysis of dietary patterns related with health outcomes has gained importance, over singular nutrients or food compounds, due the complexity of the diet composition, and the potential antagonistic and synergetic effects of the components. The two prevalent approaches to obtain dietary patterns are ‘a priori’ and ‘a posteriori’. The first relies on scientific knowledge and evidence to create an index and the second is data driven. In both approaches, the literature reveals that adherence to healthy dietary patterns is consistently related with lower cancer risk and cancer mortality, and unhealthy dietary patterns with higher risk. Even with the known limitations for the assessment of dietary patterns, the existent evidence supports the promotion of diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains, and low in red and processed meat, sugary foods and drinks, salty snacks and fat.
Nutrition and Prostate Cancer Prevention
Authors: Justulin L. A. , dos Santos S. A. A. , Damasceno D. C. , Scarano W. R. , Felisbino S. L.
Published: November 2019

Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the second most diagnosed cancer in Western countries and continues to rise worldwide. Although genetic background has a strong impact on the onset of PCa, for the majority of the cases, the progression to a lethal disease is a slow process, markedly affected by metabolism, oxidative stress and epigenetic mechanisms, making lifestyle and dietary factors pivotal modulators of PCa progression and metastatic behaviour. As such, epidemiological and experimental studies have highlighted the role of a healthy lifestyle, including food consumption (based on vegetables and fruit, and low amounts of fat/carbohydrate/red meat/processed food) as a powerful strategy to prevent or delay PCa progression and its aggressiveness. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on PCa and its relationship with nutritional and related factors. The maternal influence on the early onset of PCa was also explored. As such, changes in lifestyle can be a cost-effective strategy to prevent clinically relevant PCa, not limited to high-risk cases, but also extended to the entire population, independent of socioeconomic status.
Ambient mass spectrometry for the molecular diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Lu Haiyan , Zhang Hua , Wei Yiping , Chen Huanwen
Published: November 2019

Lipids, metabolites and proteins in a bulk tissue were sequentially detected by iEESI-MS for improved accuracy in cancer differentiation.
An Au–Se nanoprobe for the evaluation of the invasive potential of breast cancer cells via imaging the sequential activation of uPA and MMP-2
Authors: Zhan Renhui , Li Xiaofeng , Zang Lixin , Xu Kehua
Published: November 2019

A nanoprobe based on high-fidelity Au–Se bonds was developed for the imaging and real-time monitoring of the sequential activation of uPA and MMP-2 and its application to evaluate the invasive potential of breast cancer cells.
A quadruple-label time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatographic assay for simultaneous quantitative determination of three mycotoxins in grains
Authors: Chang Xiaoxi , Zhang Yaqing , Liu Hebing , Tao Xiaoqi
Published: November 2019

A quadruple-label time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatographic assay (QL-TRFICA) for simultaneous quantitative detection of three mycotoxins (AFB1, ZEN and OTA) in 6 grains (corn, soybean, sorghum, wheat, rice and oats) was established.
Enhancing CO2 methanation over a metal foam structured catalyst by electric internal heating
Authors: Dou Liguang , Yan Cunji , Zhong Liangshu , Zhang Dong , Zhang Jingye , Li Xin , Xiao Liye
Published: November 2019

We develop an electric internal heating method based on a Ni-foam structured catalyst for CO2 methanation, in which the Joule heat generated by electric current passing through the catalyst drives the reaction.
Puzzle-inspired carbon dots coupled with cobalt phosphide for constructing a highly-effective overall water splitting interface
Authors: Zhang Long-Cheng , Chen Hao , Hou Guo-Rong , Zhang Long-Zhen , Li Qiu-Lin , Wu Yuan-Ke , Xu Maowen , Bao Shu-Juan
Published: November 2019

The unique bamboo-like CDs/CoP nanoarray is beneficial to produce more H radicals and accelerate water decomposition.
miR-122 direct detection in human serum by time-gated fluorescence imaging
Authors: Garcia-Fernandez Emilio , Gonzalez-Garcia M. Carmen , Pernagallo Salvatore , Ruedas-Rama Maria J. , Fara Mario A. , López-Delgado Francisco J. , Dear James W. , Ilyine Hugh , Ress Cristina , Díaz-Mochón Juan J. , Orte Angel
Published: November 2019

A new time-gated fluorescence-based imaging method to analyse microRNAs directly from human serum using dynamic chemistry labelling.
Optimizing the interfacial electron transfer capability of single layer graphene by thermal annealing
Authors: Liu Xuan , Sartin Matthew M. , Liu Yunhua , Tian Zhong-Qun , Zhan Dongping
Published: November 2019

The interfacial electron transfer capability of Si/SiO2 wafer supported single layer graphene is optimized by thermal annealing in an inert gas environment, which facilitates its applications in both electrochemical and electronic devices.
Cobalt-catalyzed alkylation of methyl-substituted N-heteroarenes with primary alcohols: direct access to functionalized N-heteroaromatics
Authors: Mishra Anju , Dwivedi Ambikesh D. , Shee Sujan , Kundu Sabuj
Published: November 2019

Cobalt-catalyzed alkylation of various methyl-substituted N-heteroarenes with alcohols is reported for the first time.
The influence of basicity and TiO2 on the crystallization behavior of high Ti-bearing slags
Authors: Ma Hengbao , Jiao Kexin , Zhang Jianliang
Published: November 2019

The change of basicity or TiO2 content in the high titanium slag will promote the evolution of the type and size of the precipitated crystal of the titanium-rich phase.
Gelation enabled charge separation following visible light excitation using self-assembled perylene bisimides
Authors: Smith Charlotte L. , Mears Laura L. E. , Greeves Benjamin J. , Draper Emily R. , Doutch James , Adams Dave J. , Cowan Alexander J.
Published: November 2019

Perylene bisimides (PBIs) can be functionalised to enable controlled aggregation into complex supramolecular structures and are promising materials for photovoltaic and solar fuel applications.
Influence of nonmetal dopants on charge separation of graphitic carbon nitride by time-dependent density functional theory
Authors: Lin Tzu-Jen , Chiu Cheng-chau
Published: November 2019

We examined the charge separation performance of phosphorus-, oxygen-, and sulfur-doped g-C3N4 by using time dependent density functional theory and wave function analysis.
Syntheses, structures and catalytic activity of tetranuclear Mg complexes in the ROP of cyclic esters under industrially relevant conditions
Authors: Ghosh Swarup , Wölper Christoph , Tjaberings Alexander , Gröschel André H. , Schulz Stephan
Published: November 2019

Tetranuclear magnesium imino(phenolate) complexes Mg4(L1–4)4 are excellent catalysts for the ROP of bulk rac-lactide and ε-caprolactone under industrially relevant conditions.
Gravity-driven microfluidic assay for digital enumeration of bacteria and for antibiotic susceptibility testing
Authors: Kao Yu-Ting , Kaminski Tomasz S. , Postek Witold , Guzowski Jan , Makuch Karol , Ruszczak Artur , von Stetten Felix , Zengerle Roland , Garstecki Piotr
Published: November 2019

Easy-to-use gravity-driven step emulsification devices are capable of digital enumeration of bacteria and antibiotic susceptibility testing within 5 hours.
In situ synthesized hollow spheres of a silica–ruthenium–nickel composite catalyst for the hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane
Authors: Umegaki Tetsuo , Yabuuchi Keina , Yoshida Nanase , Xu Qiang , Kojima Yoshiyuki
Published: November 2019

The present study investigated the fabrication of hollow spheres of a silica–ruthenium–nickel composite catalyst for the hydrolitic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane.
Structural, luminescence and geno/cytoxicity study of carbon dots derived fromOpuntia ficus-indica(L.) Mill
Authors: Madrigal-Bujaidar Eduardo , Cerón-Montes Genaro Ivan , Reyes-Miranda Joan , Vergara-Hernández Erasto , Álvarez-González Isela , Morales-Ramírez Ángel de Jesús , Francisco-Martínez Luis Enrique , Garrido-Hernández Aristeo
Published: November 2019

Carbon dots derived from nopal significantly increase the number of micronuclei in mouse erythrocytes and inhibit mouse bone marrow cell proliferation.
The influence of support composition on the activity of Cu:Ce catalysts for selective catalytic reduction of NO by CO in the presence of excess oxygen
Authors: Gholami Zahra , Luo Guohua , Gholami Fatemeh
Published: November 2019

Excellent catalytic performance for NO reduction by CO in the presence of 5% O2over Cu1:Ce3/Al2O3.
Fast and facile preparation of S nanoparticles by flash nanoprecipitation for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Tan Zhouliang , Shi Yulin , Wei Tingting , Jia Xin , Lv Yin , Chen Long , Guo Xuhong
Published: November 2019

Fast and facile preparation of S nanoparticles by flash nanoprecipitation was applied for lithium–sulfur batteries.
Synthesis of sulfonium N-chloramines for antibacterial applications
Authors: Li Lingdong , Jia Dongxue , Wang Hande , Chang Chang , Yan Jiawei , Zhao Zongbao Kent
Published: November 2019

Sulfonium N-chloramines were synthesized with significantly higher antibacterial efficacy than previous quaternary ammonium counterpart 1, and the highest efficacy was achieved for dodecyl chained N-chloramine 9 due to a synergistic biocidal effect.
Nano-makisu: highly anisotropic two-dimensional carbon allotropes made by weaving together nanotubes
Authors: Zhao Lei , Liu Wei , Yi WenCai , Hu Tao , Khodagholian Dalar , Gu FengLong , Lin Haiqing , Zurek Eva , Zheng Yonghao , Miao Maosheng
Published: November 2019

Two-dimensional Dirac carbon materials with the strongest anisotropy are constructed by spontaneously interlinking single-walled carbon nanotubes along the radial directions.