bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the needs of local youth to inform drug and alcohol prevention and harm reduction services: A qualitative study
Authors: Deans Emily , Ravulo Jioji , Blignault Ilse , Conroy Elizabeth
Published: August 2020

Issue addressed

Reducing drug and alcohol harm is a public health priority and the Australian government has adopted a harm minimisation approach to policy. Understanding the needs of local youth is necessary for the design of relevant prevention and harm reduction services.

Methods

Using 5 unstructured focus groups and 10 interviews involving 30 participants recruited from different settings, this study explored youth perspectives around alcohol and other drugs and the psychosocial factors that influence their substance use.

Results

Three main themes were identified. First, young people perceived that drugs fell into a hierarchy related to the harm they cause and the stigma associated with use. Second, the importance of validating a young person's experience with using drugs (regardless of where they were placed on their substance‐use trajectory) as a measure to increase the credibility of drug education programs. Third, the significant influence of peers on young people's drug attitudes and behaviours.

Conclusions

Drug and alcohol education strategies must be more explicit regarding harm across all drug types, regardless of legal status or perceived social acceptability. Prevention services would benefit from including lived realities from young people's varied and changing experiences with using substances. Peer involvement in the design of preventive strategies (and involvement in participatory research to identify felt needs) is paramount to ensure teachings are grounded in a young person's social context and lived realities.

So what?

This study provides information to guide the development of appropriate and authentic drug and alcohol prevention and harm reduction services for young people.
Fostering the healthcare workforce during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Shared leadership, social capital, and contagion among health professionals
Authors: Salas‐Vallina Andrés , Ferrer‐Franco Anna , Herrera Justo
Published: August 2020

Health professionals managing patients with COVID‐19 disease are at high risk of contagion. All medical personnel involved in caring for patients need coordination, knowledge and trust. Empirical work on human resources has tended to focus on the effects of human resource practices on performance, whereas leadership and social interactions have been overlooked. Based upon interviews with medical staff working in specialised medical units, this study uses the social capital theory to examine relationships among shared leadership, social capital, and contagion rates. First, shared leadership was found to positively affect COVID‐19 contagion among health professionals. Second, by sharing information and a common language, and showing high levels of trust, namely social capital, medical units seem to reduce contagion rates of COVID‐19. In other words, shared leadership plays a fundamental role in improving performance in healthcare by means of social capital.
A gene expression‐based single sample predictor of lung adenocarcinoma molecular subtype and prognosis
Authors: Liljedahl Helena , Karlsson Anna , Oskarsdottir Gudrun N. , Salomonsson Annette , Brunnström Hans , Erlingsdottir Gigja , Jönsson Mats , Isaksson Sofi , Arbajian Elsa , Ortiz‐Villalón Cristian , Hussein Aziz , Bergman Bengt , Vikström Anders , Monsef Nastaran , Branden Eva , Koyi Hirsh , de Petris Luigi , Patthey Annika , Behndig Annelie F. , Johansson Mikael , Planck Maria , Staaf Johan
Published: August 2020

Disease recurrence in surgically treated lung adenocarcinoma (AC) remains high. New approaches for risk stratification beyond tumor stage are needed. Gene expression‐based AC subtypes such as the Cancer Genome Atlas Network (TCGA) terminal‐respiratory unit (TRU), proximal‐inflammatory (PI) and proximal‐proliferative (PP) subtypes have been associated with prognosis, but show methodological limitations for robust clinical use. We aimed to derive a platform independent single sample predictor (SSP) for molecular subtype assignment and risk stratification that could function in a clinical setting. Two‐class (TRU/nonTRU=SSP2) and three‐class (TRU/PP/PI=SSP3) SSPs using the AIMS algorithm were trained in 1655 ACs (n = 9659 genes) from public repositories vs TCGA centroid subtypes. Validation and survival analysis were performed in 977 patients using overall survival (OS) and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) as endpoints. In the validation cohort, SSP2 and SSP3 showed accuracies of 0.85 and 0.81, respectively. SSPs captured relevant biology previously associated with the TCGA subtypes and were associated with prognosis. In survival analysis, OS and DMFS for cases discordantly classified between TCGA and SSP2 favored the SSP2 classification. In resected Stage I patients, SSP2 identified TRU‐cases with better OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.18‐0.49) and DMFS (TRU HR = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.33‐0.83) independent of age, Stage IA/IB and gender. SSP2 was transformed into a NanoString nCounter assay and tested in 44 Stage I patients using RNA from formalin‐fixed tissue, providing prognostic stratification (relapse‐free interval, HR = 3.2; 95% CI = 1.2‐8.8). In conclusion, gene expression‐based SSPs can provide molecular subtype and independent prognostic information in early‐stage lung ACs. SSPs may overcome critical limitations in the applicability of gene signatures in lung cancer.
The dilemma between fund‐style consistency and active management over the economic cycle. Evidence from pension funds
Authors: Alda Mercedes
Published: August 2020

This paper examines whether equity‐allocation shifts (equity‐holding and equity‐style shifts) jeopardize retirement savings in U.K. equity pension funds. Fund‐style shifts may deviate pension funds from their original risk profile and expose participants to undesired results. Nonetheless, these shifts may be the result of an active management to adapt to market cycles. Financial literature usually points out the policy‐allocation importance versus the active management in explaining fund returns; however, we find significant relation between them. Our results show that managers vary their portfolios to add value, avoid the constraints of preserving consistent styles, and adapt to market conditions. Participants do not negatively react to style changes because top shifter funds are run by skillful managers and outperform. Nevertheless, managers must be aware of their limitations and the risk taken with this strategy. Poor skilled managers do not successfully implement style‐shift strategies, especially in crises.
The effect of tax preparers on corporate tax aggressiveness: Evidence form the UK context
Authors: Assidi Soufiene , Hussainey Khaled
Published: August 2020

This paper studies the role of tax preparers in tax aggressiveness. Based on a sample of 342 UK companies indexed on the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) 350 from 2006 to 2016, it finds that external tax preparers are more tax aggressive than internal ones. The result is explained by the capability of external preparers to take more aggressive tax positions than internal preparers because of their knowledge in different changes to tax law, and their higher expertise in this field. The findings has implications for managers, policymakers and researchers.
Does corporate social responsibility mediate the influence of national culture on investment inefficiency? Firm‐level evidence from Asia Pacific
Authors: Rehman Ijaz Ur , Shahzad Faisal , Latif Khawaja Fawad , Nawab Noman , Rashid Abdul , Hyder Shabir
Published: August 2020

A systematic understanding of how national culture translates its effect on firm‐level CSR performance which resultantly increases or decreases firm‐level investment inefficiency is critical void in the extant literature which the current study aims to fill over and above what previous studies have documented on the relationship between national culture and investment inefficiency and national culture and CSR performance. Building on Hofstede's four culture dimensions, we examine the direct and indirect links between national culture and investment inefficiency by considering the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility performance. Our study sample comprises of firms registered and remained list on the stock exchanges of 12 different Asia Pacific countries over the period of 2006–2016. To test the pathway in which national culture act on investment efficacy, Sobel intermediary factor test method is used to analyse the intermediary effect. We provide evidence that high degree of individualism, uncertainty avoidance and masculinity significantly reduce investment inefficiency. We also show that these variables decrease firm investment inefficiencies mainly through the increased CSR performance. In contrast, our results suggest that higher power distance increases the investment inefficiency of firms through declines in CSR performance. Our findings are robust after controlling for endogeneity, self‐selection and sample selection biases.
Good variance, bad variance, and stock return predictability
Authors: Zhang Yaojie , Ma Feng , Liang Chao , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2020

In the stock market, past winners and losers usually have different attitudes to variance risk. In light of this, we decompose stock variance into good and bad variances, and further construct a composite signed variance. The recursively estimated coefficient of standard variance is volatile over time, but the ones of good, bad, and signed variances are fairly stable. This suggests the high efficiency of our decomposition approach. We provide convincing evidence that bad variance and composite signed variance can significantly predict future stock returns both in‐ and out‐of‐sample. Furthermore, a mean–variance investor can realize substantial economic gains by using our bad and signed variances relative to the traditional variance predictor and simple mean benchmark. Our decomposition approach can outperform other similar but complex techniques, including threshold regression and Markov regime switching. The results are consistent across multiple robustness tests.
Inside Cover
Authors: Tsai Chung‐Min , Chang Shwu‐Fen , Chang Hsi
Published: August 2020

Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) with wavelength at 808 nm was applied to a rat model of acute seizures. The tPBM successfully attenuated convulsive status epilepticus, and the tPBM was shown to reduce the apoptosis of parvalbumin‐positive interneurons (PV‐INs) and preserved the integrity of perisomatic inhibitory network of PV‐INs to principle cells in the hippocampus.

Further details can be found in the article by Chung‐Min Tsai, Shwu‐Fen Chang, and Hsi Chang (e202000095).

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Inside Cover
Authors: Liberda Danuta , Hermes Michael , Koziol Paulina , Stone Nick , Wrobel Tomasz P.
Published: August 2020

Esophagus tissue classification models based on FT‐IR imaging data were successfully created (AUC>0.95). The conditions for translating a histopathological FT‐IR based model to a fast Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) system microscope were investigated.

Further details can be found in the article by Danuta Liberda, Michael Hermes, Paulina Koziol, Nick Stone and Tomasz P. Wrobel (e202000122).

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Novel long noncoding RNAs upregulation may have synergistic effects on the CYP24A1 and PFDN4 biomarker role in human colorectal cancer
Authors: Sadeghi Hossein , Nazemalhosseini‐Mojarad Ehsan , Sahebi Unes , Fazeli Elnaz , Azizi‐Tabesh Ghasem , Yassaee Vahid R. , Savabkar Sanaz , Asadzadeh Aghdaei Hamid , Zali Mohammad R. , Mirfakhraie Reza
Published: August 2020

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as the master regulators of tumor initiation, proliferation, and metastasis; however, their diagnostic value as potential biomarkers should be clarified. Vitamin D influences the expression of several genes in various pathways, including the CYP24A1 gene in the vitamin D metabolism pathway. In the present research, we surveyed the expression levels and clinical significance of novel lncRNAs related to CYP24A1 and PFDN4 genes in colorectal cancer (CRC) using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, we assessed the expression of these genes after vitamin D treatment in HCT‐116 and HT‐29 colon cancer cell lines. Our results indicated that the transcription of CYP24A1, PFDN4, and nearby lncRNAs was affected by vitamin D treatment in HCT‐116 and HT‐29 cell lines. Moreover, CYP24A1, PFDN4, lnc‐CYP24A1‐3:1, and lnc‐TSHZ2‐19:1 were upregulated and had the potential to distinguish colorectal cancer tissues from the adjacent tissues by the large area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.94, 0.66, 0.70, and 0.60, respectively). lnc‐TSHZ2‐19:1 expression level significantly correlated with gender (p = .03). In conclusion, CYP24A1, PFDN4, lnc‐CYP24A1‐3:1, and lnc‐TSHZ2‐19:1 can be used as potential diagnostic biomarkers in the specific and sensitive assessment of CRC. Besides this, vitamin D treatment may modulate the expression of these genes in a cell‐specific manner.
Effects of photoperiod on morphology and function in testis and epididymis of Cricetulus barabensis
Authors: Mou Junjie , Xu Jinhui , Wang Zhe , Wang Chuanli , Yang Xueqi , Wang Xingchen , Xue Huiliang , Wu Ming , Xu Laixiang
Published: August 2020

Photoperiod regulates the seasonal reproductive rhythms of mammals by influencing the development and function of sexual organs; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We examined the morphology and functioning of the main sex organs of striped dwarf hamsters (Cricetulus barabensis) under different photoperiods (short daylight [SD], moderate daylight [MD], and long daylight [LD]) and further investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. There was an inverse correlation between blood melatonin levels and photoperiod in the order SD > MD > LD. Decreases in body and tissue weights were observed under SD, whereas testis and epididymis weights between MD and LD were comparable. The diameters of the spermatogenic tubules, thickness of the spermatogenic epithelium, and the number of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells decreased under SD, whereas the serum‐luteinizing hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone, and fecal testosterone concentrations decreased under LD. In SD, bax/bcl2 protein expression increased in the testes and decreased in the epididymides, whereas LC3II/LC3I remained unchanged in the testes and increased in the epididymides compared with the MD group. In LD, bax/bcl2 and LC3II/LC3I protein expression levels were unchanged in the testes but were decreased in the epididymides. In SD and LD, adenosine triphosphate synthase and citrate synthase protein expression levels were unchanged in the testes but were decreased in the epididymides. Drp1 and Mff protein expression increased in the testes and decreased in the epididymides. Overall, different regulatory mechanisms in the testis and epididymis led to degeneration under SD and maintenance under LD, preferentially protecting mitochondrial function in the testis by regulating mitochondrial fission.
An expedient multi‐component synthesis of pyridinyl‐spirooxindoles and their effect on proliferation of lung cancer A549 cells
Authors: Yan Liang , Wu Xu , Zhang Yizongheng , Sankaran Mathan , Xu Lei , Ling Liefeng , Wang Yi , Jiang Yuxin , Ma Jinzhu , Kong Lingyu
Published: August 2020

A series of new functionalized pyridinyl‐spirooxindoles have been synthesized through three‐component cyclization reactions. The selected compounds were screened for their in vitro antiproliferative activity against human lung cancer cell line A549. Among the candidate structures, compound 1o demonstrated maximum inhibitory activity against A549 cells with IC50 values of 28.38 μM. EdU (5‐Ethynyl‐2′‐ deoxyuridine, EdU) assay and cell colony formation test showed that cell proliferation of A549 cells was inhibited. In addition, Western blot analysis revealed that the phosphorylation levels of Akt, mTOR, 70S6, and S6 were down‐regulated. Thus, these results indicated that 1o may inhibit the proliferation of A549 cells through inhibiting the phosphorylation levels of Akt, mTOR, 70S6, and S6. 1o may be developed as a potential antitumor agent for lung cancer treatment.
The relationship between trauma symptoms and immediate and delayed suggestibility in children who have been sexually abused
Authors: Gudjonsson Gisli , Vagni Monia , Maiorano Tiziana , Pajardi Daniela
Published: August 2020

There is general absence of research about the relationship between trauma symptoms and immediate and delayed suggestibility in children who have been sexually abused. The participants were 134 children aged between 7 and 17 years with a history of reported sexual abuse. All children completed the Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scale (2), a non‐verbal IQ test, and The University of California at Los Angeles Child/Adolescent Reaction Index for post‐traumatic stress (UCLA‐PTSD‐RI‐5). Delayed suggestibility was measured after a 1 week delay. A Hierarchical Regression showed that trauma symptoms accounted overall for 43.4% of the variance in delayed suggestibility after controlling for age, sex, IQ, and immediate recall (a large effect size). There was a small shared variance between trauma and immediate suggestibility (low effect size). The findings strongly suggest that the severity of trauma symptoms impact more on delayed than immediate suggestibility. The theoretical and forensic implications are discussed.
MEK5/ERK5 signaling mediates IL-4-induced M2 macrophage differentiation through regulation of c-Myc expression
Authors: Luiz João Paulo M , Toller-Kawahisa Juliana E , Viacava Paula R , Nascimento Daniele C , Pereira Priscilla T , Saraiva André L , Prado Douglas S , Le Bert Marc , Giurisato Emanuele , Tournier Cathy , Cunha Thiago M , Cunha Fernando Q , Quesniaux Valerie , Ryffel Bernhard , Alves-Filho José C
Published: August 2020

Macrophages are highly plastic cells, responding to diverse environmental stimuli to acquire different functional phenotypes. Signaling through MAPKs has been reported to regulate the differentiation of macrophages, but the role of ERK5 in IL-4-mediated M2 macrophage differentiation is still unclear. Here, we showed that the ERK5 signaling pathway plays a critical role in IL-4-induced M2 macrophage differentiation. Pharmacologic inhibition of MEK5, an upstream activator of ERK5, markedly reduced the expression of classical M2 markers, such as Arg-1, Ym-1, and Fizz-1, as well as the production of M2-related chemokines and cytokines, CCL22, CCL17, and IGF-1 in IL-4-stimulated macrophages. Moreover, pharmacologic inhibition of ERK5 also decreased the expression of several M2 markers induced by IL-4. In accordance, myeloid cell-specific Erk5 depletion (Erk5∆mye), using LysMcre/Erk5f/f mice, confirmed the involvement of ERK5 in IL-4-induced M2 polarization. Mechanistically, the inhibition of ERK5 did not affect STAT3 or STAT6 phosphorylation, suggesting that ERK5 signaling regulates M2 differentiation in a STAT3 and STAT6-independent manner. However, genetic deficiency or pharmacologic inhibition of the MEK5/ERK5 pathway reduced the expression of c-Myc in IL-4-activated macrophages, which is a critical transcription factor involved in M2 differentiation. Our study thus suggests that the MEK5/ERK5 signaling pathway is crucial in IL-4-induced M2 macrophage differentiation through the induction of c-Myc expression.
Regional atmospheric response to the Benguela Niñas
Authors: Koseki Shunya , Imbol Koungue Rodrigue Anicet
Published: August 2020

We investigate how the atmosphere is affected by the cold sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies of the Benguela Niñas using reanalysis data and a high‐resolution atmospheric model. A composite analysis of reanalysis data based on five Benguela Niña events (5 years out of 39 years for 1979–2017) reveals that the rainfall along the Angolan coast is reduced significantly and other anomalies of precipitation are detected over the African continent and equatorial Atlantic. Those anomalies can be explained by the anomalies of vertically‐integrated moisture flux (VIMF) and its divergence and convergence. Additionally, the Namibian low‐level cloud and sea level pressure (SLP) are enhanced around the ABFZ by the Benguela Niñas. A simulation of the model forced by the cold SST anomalies of the Benguela Niñas reproduces the reduction (enhancement) of rainfall and VIMF divergent (convergent) anomaly over the Angolan coastal region (Gulf of Guinea). However, the other anomalies over the African continent are not significant. It is suggested that the effects of the Benguela Niñas are limited along southwestern coast of Africa. Composite analysis of reanalyses of rainfall anomalies associated with Benguela Niña events shows pattern over the other regions which might be induced by larger‐scale atmospheric anomaly. This large‐scale atmospheric anomaly can be linked with the South Atlantic Anticyclone and/or forced by the teleconnection from the tropical Pacific, for instance. The increment of the Namibian low‐level cloud and SLP is simulated by the numerical experiments consistently. The low‐level cloud becomes more frequent between 950 and 900 hPa and the radiative cooling by longwave radiation is reinforced during the Benguela Niñas events. In contrast, the cloud formation around 850 hPa is reduced and radiative cooling is weakened. It is indicated that this change in the cooling rate possibly induces the strengthening in the inversion layer over the cold SST anomalies.
Audit of medication allergy referrals to an allergy outpatient service at a tertiary hospital
Authors: Lee Adrian Y. S. , Hudson Pamela , Smith Anthony J. F.
Published: August 2020

Medication allergy is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and proper evaluation and management by an allergy service is of paramount importance. We audited all adult medication allergy outpatient referrals received by a tertiary allergy/clinical immunology service for completeness. A 6‐month prospective audit of all medication allergy referrals was undertaken at a tertiary public hospital in South Australia. Each referral was assessed against the Australasian Society for Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) medication allergy referral template. A total of 73 medication allergy referrals were received. There was an overall poor level of adherence to all criteria (44.7%) and general practitioner (GP) referrals were generally more detailed than internal referrals. Inadequately detailed referrals may have the knock‐on effect of inappropriate triaging of referrals. Future studies are required to identify barriers to doctors providing sufficiently detailed referrals, and investigate appropriate interventions to improve this.
Mitigating cross‐phase modulation artifacts in femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering
Authors: Würthwein Thomas , Lüpken Niklas M. , Irwin Niels , Fallnich Carsten
Published: August 2020

In contrast to spontaneous Raman scattering, coherent Raman scattering techniques, such as femtosecond stimulated Raman scattering (FSRS), show advantages for many applications. Besides an enhanced signal strength, FSRS is free of a nonresonant background but is affected by cross‐phase modulation (XPM). The resulting artifacts in FSRS become relevant for high pulse intensities (GW/cm2‐regime) and ultrashort pulses (<2 ps), both necessary for super‐resolution experiments. As the pulse duration is a crucial parameter for XPM as well as for FSRS, we present a setup in which we adjust the pulse duration across the relevant range (0.5–3 ps), in order to investigate the XPM influence on the spectra. Furthermore, we vary the peak intensity, the temporal overlap between the interacting pulses, and the nonlinear refractive index coefficient n2 of the sample, showing that a trade‐off between all these quantities enables the measurement of unaffected FSRS spectra
An Intravagal Parathyroid Adenoma in the Poststyloid Parapharyngeal Space
Authors: Shonka David C. , Danan Deepa
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Describe a case of an intravagal parathyroid adenoma.

Case

A 35‐year‐old male presented with symptomatic primary hyperparathyroidism and non‐localizing imaging studies. Intraoperative venous sampling revealed a substantial gradient within the right internal jugular vein. Repeat imaging identified an enhancing lesion in the right parapharyngeal space at the skull base. An intravagal parathyroid adenoma was discovered intraoperatively. Microdissection of the adenoma out of the nerve allowed preservation of laryngeal function and an appropriate drop in ioPTH.

Conclusions

Intraneural parathyroid adenomas are exceedingly rare. The clinical, radiologic, and histologic findings of an intravagal parathyroid adenoma in the post‐styloid parapharyngeal space are described. Laryngoscope, 131:453–456, 2021
Hydrologic control on winter dissolved oxygen mediates arsenic cycling in a small subarctic lake
Authors: Palmer Michael J. , Chételat John , Jamieson Heather E. , Richardson Murray , Amyot Marc
Published: August 2020

The seasonal development of an ice cover is a characteristic feature of subarctic lakes, yet the biogeochemical cycling of redox sensitive elements under ice, including arsenic (As), is poorly understood. We conducted comprehensive geochemical characterization of lake waters, sediment pore waters and lake sediments over two consecutive years to develop a conceptual model of As, iron (Fe), and sulfur (S) dynamics under ice in a shallow subarctic lake (mean depth 2.0 m) impacted by more than 60 yr of As pollution from local gold mining emissions. Lake sediments were a source of As to overlying waters during both winters when oxygen was depleted from interfacial sediments through the reductive dissolution of As‐bearing Fe (oxy)hydroxides, but the influence on lake water chemistry was distinctly different between years and dependent on winter hydrology of the lake. When the lake was hydrologically disconnected from the upstream watershed, anoxia developed through the entire water column and high concentrations of As (> 100 μg L−1) and Fe (> 1000 μg L−1) were measured in lake water. During the second winter, open‐water flow persisted at the lake inlet, which replenished dissolved oxygen in the under‐ice water column, suppressed the upward migration of the Fe and SO4 redox boundaries, and limited sediment As efflux. These findings demonstrate how changing hydrology, specifically ice cover duration, and hydrological connectivity can influence the winter cycling of As, Fe, and S in shallow subarctic lakes.
Thermally Stable and Well‐Defined Pentadiene‐Derived Copolymers Prepared by Anionic Alternating Copolymerization and Subsequent Controlled Postmodification
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhang Feng , Sun Min , Xie Fengli , Ying Shuhang , Yang Zan , Zhou Congshan , Xia Jinkui , Li An
Published: August 2020

Thermally stable and well‐defined hydrocarbon polymers prepared via anionic alternating copolymerization of 1,3‐pentadiene (P monomer: trans (TP) and cis (CP) mixture) and styrene derivatives (S monomer: styrene (St) and 1,1‐diphenylethylene (DPE)) and subsequent hydrogenation and cationic cyclization modifications are reported. The TP/S/CP terpolymerization reveals that an incorporation of S‐alt‐CP sequence into the alternating chain is more favorable, while the S‐alt‐TP insertion is also possible especially under high temperature owing to their competitive energy barriers and thermodynamic properties. Then the resultant copolymers with equimolar amount of the two monomers and predominant linear units are intramolecularly cyclized with CF3SO3H, or hydrogenated with p‐toluenesulfonyl hydrazide, to afford soluble and thermally stable hydrocarbon polymers with controlled Mns and narrow ĐMs. The Tg of cylized polymer increases dramatically (ΔTg > 100 °C) on cyclization between the adjacent CC bond in the P structure and the aromatic ring of S unit through the intramolecular Friedel–Crafts alkylation. On the other hand, the Tg of hydrogenated product slightly decreases (ΔTg ≈ 10 °C) after 98% hydrogenation due to the increasing flexibility of the saturated main‐chain, while the Td increases about 60 °C due to the loss of CC bonds under oxygen atmosphere.
Cytoprotective autophagy induction by withaferin A in prostate cancer cells involves GABARAPL1
Authors: Hahm Eun‐Ryeong , Singh Shivendra V.
Published: August 2020

Withaferin A (WA) is a naturally occurring steroidal lactone with proven cancer chemopreventive activity in preclinical models of different cancers including prostate adenocarcinoma. Previously we compared the RNA‐seq data from control and WA‐treated 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cells to identify mechanistic targets of this phytochemical. The Gene Ontology pathway analysis of the RNA‐seq data revealed significant upregulation of genes associated with autophagy upon WA treatment in 22Rv1 cells. In this study, we extended these findings to investigate the mechanism underlying WA‐induced autophagy. Initially, we confirmed autophagy induction by WA treatment by transmission electron microscopy using three prostate cancer cell lines (LNCaP, 22Rv1, and PC‐3). Fourteen common genes altered by 8‐ and 16‐hour exposure to WA were identified from human autophagy PCR array and these results were consistent with the RNA‐seq data. Two key autophagy markers (LC3BII and SQSTM1) were robustly increased in WA‐exposed LNCaP, 22Rv1, and PC‐3 cells as determined by immunoblotting, and this effect was elevated in the presence of autophagy inhibitor bafilomycin A1 (BafA1). BafA1 treatment augmented WA's cytotoxicity and subsequently its proapoptotic potential. WA treatment induced GABARAPL1 (ATG8L) protein expression in all three cell lines and its knockdown by RNA interference attenuated WA‐mediated apoptosis. WA‐induced autophagy was not affected in the presence of an antioxidant (EUK134). Taken together, the present study reveals that WA‐mediated autophagy is cytoprotective and mediated by GABARAPL1.
Determination of expected cost of equity with the CAPM: Theoretical extension using the law of error propagation
Authors: Situm Mario
Published: August 2020

The determination of the expected return on equity based on the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) is an internationally recognized method, although the underlying theory is not without criticism and therefore leaves sufficient room for interpretation. Strictly speaking, the expected return on equity cannot be determined per se, as all parameters of the CAPM have to be estimated and contain measurement errors. The statistical measurement errors would have to be included in the calculation of the expected return on equity. The paper discusses the current view on how the expected return on equity is determined in the Germen‐speaking countries and presents an approach to transfer the measurement errors of the parameter risk‐free rate, market risk premium, and company beta to the calculated return on equity using the Gaussian law of error propagation.
Economic ordering policy for non‐instantaneous deteriorating items with price and advertisement dependent demand and permissible delay in payment under inflation
Authors: Udayakumar R. , Geetha K.V. , Sana Shib Sankar
Published: August 2020

In recent years, offering credit period by the supplier to the retailer has become a usual strategy. Hence, in the present work, an inventory model for noninstantaneous deteriorating items is framed considering money inflation and time discounting, where a permissible delay period is offered by the supplier as an alternative to price discount. Further, the salvage value associated with deteriorated units is considered, and the shortages allowed are partially backlogged. Focus is made on obtaining the optimal replenishment policy by minimizing the total inventory cost. This is achieved by developing mathematical theorems that determines the existence and the uniqueness of the optimal solutions. Moreover, computational algorithm is designed and illustrated using numerical examples and analysis. Various managerial insights obtained from the analysis are also highlighted.
The effect of a generalized nonlinear incidence rate on the stochastic SIS epidemic model
Authors: Lahrouz Aadil , Settati Adel , El Fatini Mohamed , Tridane Abdessamad
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we aim to analyze the classical SIS epidemic model with a generalized force of infection (including nonmonotonic cases), where the transmission rate is perturbed by white noise. Using Feller's test for explosions, we prove that the disease dies out with probability one without any restriction on the model parameters.
Raman spectroscopic characterization of acid refluxed and surfactant‐assisted dispersed multiwalled carbon nanotubes on surface functionalized substrates
Authors: Maulik Subhodip , Sarkar Anirban , Basu Srismrita , Daniels‐Race Theda
Published: August 2020

This communication focuses on the Raman spectroscopic characterization of a voltage‐controlled electrospray deposition (VCED) of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) dispersed from acid refluxed and SDBS (sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate) assisted carbon nanotube (CNT) dispersion techniques. This versatile method resulted in the direct deposition of CNT films on the surface functionalized target substrates, that is—APTES (3‐aminopropyl‐triethoxysilane) treated metal (aluminum foil), semiconducting (bare Si), and insulators (microscopy grade glass, silicon dioxide, and polymethyl methacrylate or PMMA)—used in this study. During the voltage‐controlled deposition process itself, the spray area and thickness of the MWCNT films on a substrate can be easily manipulated. In this work, CNT thin films of 40‐70 nm to 3‐7 μm were produced as a function of deposition time, with excellent packing density and surface coverage. The precise thickness control of the CNT deposits on each target substrate was achieved by meticulously calibrating the mechanics of the voltage‐controlled spray system, for example, inter‐electrode distance between the target surface and the nozzle, electric field, and flow rate of the CNT solution feed, in addition to the concentration of the CNT solution and the deposition time. These overall experimental results bode well for use of this technique in a wider range of applications where CNTs films with controlled thicknesses are required.
Characterization of rodent Sertoli cell primary cultures
Authors: Zomer Helena D. , Reddi Prabhakara P.
Published: August 2020

Sertoli cells play a vital role in spermatogenesis by offering physical and nutritional support to the differentiating male germ cells. They form the blood–testis barrier and secrete growth factors essential for germ cell differentiation. Sertoli cell primary cultures are critical for understanding the regulation of spermatogenesis; however, obtaining pure cultures has been a challenge. Rodent Sertoli cell isolation protocols do not rule out contamination by the interstitial or connective tissue cells. Sertoli cell‐specific markers could be helpful, but there is no consensus. Vimentin, the most commonly used marker, is not specific for Sertoli cells since its expression has been reported in peritubular myoid cells, mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, and endothelial cells, which contaminate Sertoli cell preparations. Markers based on transcription and growth factors also have limitations. Thus, the impediment to obtaining pure Sertoli cell cultures pertains to both the method of isolation and marker usage. The aim of this review is to discuss improvements to current methods of rodent Sertoli cell primary cultures, assess the properties of prepubertal versus mature Sertoli cell cultures, and propose steps to improve cellular characterization. Potential benefits of using contemporary approaches, including lineage tracing, specific cell ablation, and RNA‐seq for obtaining Sertoli‐specific transcript markers are discussed. Evaluating the specificity and applicability of these markers at the protein level to characterize Sertoli cells in culture would be critical. This review is expected to positively impact future work using primary cultures of rodent Sertoli cells.
An optimal control model for cloud seeding in a deterministic and stochastic environment
Authors: Misra Arvind Kumar , Tripathi Amita
Published: August 2020

To promote artificial rain in India and other such developing countries, in this article, we have proposed and analyzed a nonlinear mathematical model for cloud seeding by considering that aerosols are introduced proportional to the density of water vapors present in the atmosphere. The model is analyzed using Lyapunov's stability theory of differential equations. To reduce the cost of cloud seeding, an optimal control strategy is designed by incorporating four control parameters. We have shown the existence and uniqueness of solution of this optimal control problem, using Pontryagins Maximum Principle. To minimize the cost in making artificial rain, the optimal control problem provides the strategy for the rate of introduction of aerosols in the atmosphere. To capture the effects of environmental noise on control strategies, the model in deterministic framework is converted into stochastic framework. In this regard, the Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation for stochastic control cost function has been formed. The stochastic analysis implies that the control strategy is effective in reducing the cost and increasing rainfall.
Sub‐10 nm Radiolabeled Barium Sulfate Nanoparticles as Carriers for Theranostic Applications and Targeted Alpha Therapy
Authors: Reissig Falco , Zarschler Kristof , Hübner René , Pietzsch Hans‐Jürgen , Kopka Klaus , Mamat Constantin
Published: August 2020

Invited for this month's cover picture is the team around Dr. Constantin Mamat from the Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research at the Helmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf (Germany). Read the full text of their Full Paper at 10.1002/open.202000126.
Surveillance imaging in pediatric ependymoma
Authors: Klawinski Darren , Indelicato Daniel J. , Hossain Jobayer , Sandler Eric
Published: August 2020

Background

Management of pediatric patients with ependymoma includes posttreatment surveillance imaging to identify asymptomatic recurrences. However, it is unclear whether early detection translates into improved survival. The objective was to determine whether detection of ependymoma relapses on surveillance imaging translates into a survival benefit.

Procedure

Patients with ependymoma aged <21 years at diagnosis treated in the Nemours’ Children's Health System between January 2003 and October 2016 underwent chart review. Relapsed patients’ charts were assessed for details of initial therapy, surveillance imaging regimen, details of relapse including detection and therapy, and outcome. Median follow up of the entire cohort was 6.5 years from diagnosis and 3.5 years from relapse.

Results

Ninety of 198 (45%) patients experienced relapse with 61 (68%) detected by surveillance imaging and 29 (32%) detected based on symptoms. Five‐year OS in the surveillance group was 67% (confidence interval [CI] 55–82%, SE 0.1) versus 51% (CI 35–73%, SE 0.19) in the symptoms group (P = .073). From relapse, the 3‐year OS in the surveillance group was 62% (CI 50–78%, SE 0.11) versus 55% (CI 39–76%, SE 0.17) in the symptoms group (P = .063) and the 3‐year SPFS was 45% (CI 33–61%, SE 0.16) in the surveillance group versus 32% (CI 19–55%, SE 0.27) in the symptoms group (P = .028).

Conclusion

Surveillance imaging may identify recurrences in patients when they are more amenable to salvage therapy, resulting in superior 3‐year SPFS, but given limited salvage options for children with recurrent ependymoma, the survival advantage of frequent surveillance imaging in asymptomatic patients remains ambiguous.
Medical radiation exposure and risk of sporadic retinoblastoma
Authors: Shakeel Omar , Pace Nelson , Chambers Tiffany M. , Scheurer Michael E. , Ganguly Arupa A. , Lupo Philip J. , Bunin Greta R.
Published: August 2020

Background

While there is evidence that parental exposure to medical radiation is associated with increased risk of sporadic bilateral retinoblastoma in offspring, this association has not been confirmed. Additionally, the relationship between paternal and maternal exposures and sporadic unilateral retinoblastoma has not been fully investigated.

Procedure

Data were obtained from two large multicenter case‐control studies of retinoblastoma. For the paternal analyses, 268 bilateral cases, 155 unilateral cases, and 358 controls were included. For the maternal analyses, 298 bilateral cases, 184 unilateral cases, and 404 controls were included. Logistical regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to evaluate the associations between parental exposures to medical radiation and sporadic retinoblastoma, while adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Paternal exposure to medical radiation was not significantly associated with sporadic bilateral retinoblastoma in offspring. However, increasing paternal exposure to gonadal radiation was associated with increased risk of unilateral retinoblastoma (P‐trend = .03). Maternal history of upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) series was associated with bilateral retinoblastoma (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1‐3.2 and OR = 6.9, 95% CI: 2.9‐16.4, respectively). However, there was no association between maternal exposure to medical radiation and unilateral retinoblastoma in offspring.

Conclusion

Our investigation adds to the evidence that medical radiation exposure in fathers as well as mothers prior to pregnancy may increase the risk of germline alterations leading to the development of retinoblastoma in their offspring. However, our findings could point to a more complex etiological framework for this important pediatric malignancy.
Pharmacoepidemiology of testosterone: Impact of reimbursement policy on curbing off‐label prescribing
Authors: Handelsman David J.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To estimate the impact on testosterone prescribing over 3 years following the 2015 tightening of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) criteria.

Design

Analysis of testosterone prescribing data from PBS and private (non‐PBS) sources between 2012 and 2018 covering 2015 change in PBS prescribing criteria.

Main outcome measures

New and total PBS testosterone prescriptions estimating usage by quarter analyzed by product type, patient age‐group, indication and prescriber type. Total national testosterone prescriptions (private plus PBS) was verified from an independent data supplier (IQVIA).

Results

PBS usage peaked in 2014 declining by 30% in 2017‐8 with PBS prescribing covering a fall from 97.6% by usage in 2014 to 74% in 2017‐18 of all testosterone prescribing. The tighter 2015 PBS restrictions sustained the selective reduction in GP initiation of prescriptions for middle‐aged men without pathological hypogonadism whereas specialist initiations and prescription for adult hypogonadism or pediatric/prepubertal indications were largely unaffected.

Conclusions

The tightening of PBS criteria from 1 April 2015 to curb off‐label prescribing remained effective and selective over 3 years yet total national testosterone prescribing continued with little change, reflecting a shift to private prescriptions. The continuation of off‐label testosterone prescribing for unproven indications suggests that long‐term androgen dependence is created in men without pathological hypogonadism who commence testosterone. This highlights the need to avoid prescribing testosterone to men without pathological hypogonadism in the absence of sound evidence of efficacy and safety, the latter including the little unrecognized risks of long‐term androgen dependency when trying to quit.
Development and Validation of the Personal Values Dictionary: A Theory–Driven Tool for Investigating References to Basic Human Values in Text
Authors: Ponizovskiy Vladimir , Ardag Murat , Grigoryan Lusine , Boyd Ryan , Dobewall Henrik , Holtz Peter
Published: August 2020

Estimating psychological constructs from natural language has the potential to expand the reach and applicability of personality science. Research on the Big Five has produced methods to reliably assess personality traits from text, but the development of comparable tools for personal values is still in the early stages. Based on the Schwartz theory of basic human values, we developed a dictionary for the automatic assessment of references to personal values in text. To refine and validate the dictionary, we used Facebook updates, blog posts, essays, and book chapters authored by over 180 000 individuals. The results show high reliability for the dictionary and a pattern of correlations between the value types in line with the circumplex structure. We found small to moderate ( rs = .1–.4) but consistent correlations between dictionary scores and self–reported scores for 7 out of 10 values. Correlations between the dictionary scores and age, gender, and political orientation of the author and scores for other established dictionaries mostly followed theoretical predictions. The Personal Values Dictionary can be used to assess references to value orientations in textual data, such as tweets, blog posts, or status updates, and will stimulate further research in methods to assess human basic values from text.
Confocal Laser Vibrometry
Authors: Köhnke Semjon , Ennen Malte , Schaap Iwan
Published: August 2020

With laser interferometry vibrations can be measured with picometer resolution. A prerequisite for such measurements is that the sample is optically accessible for the measurement laser. However, because MEMS sensors are increasingly designed with multiple layers and are encapsulated in silicon packages, their vibrations are often out of reach for conventional laser vibrometers. Here we show that with a smart combination of scanning microscopy and laser interferometry it is now possible to measure vibrations within encapsulated MEMS devices.
See, Recognize, Grasp
Authors: Waizmann Stefan
Published: August 2020

The goal of the Swiss company Asyril is to improve the performance of assembly robots. It uses sophisticated image processing systems to facilitate the gripping of bulk material components by robots used in production, relying on an innovative idea and on industrial cameras from SVS‐Vistek.
Nano or Not Nano? A Structured Approach for Identifying Nanomaterials According to the European Commission’s Definition
Authors: Mech Agnieszka , Wohlleben Wendel , Ghanem Antoine , Hodoroaba Vasile‐Dan , Weigel Stefan , Babick Frank , Brüngel Raphael , Friedrich Christoph M. , Rasmussen Kirsten , Rauscher Hubert
Published: August 2020

Identifying nanomaterials (NMs) according to European Union legislation is challenging, as there is an enormous variety of materials, with different physico‐chemical properties. The NanoDefiner Framework and its Decision Support Flow Scheme (DSFS) allow choosing the optimal method to measure the particle size distribution by matching the material properties and the performance of the particular measurement techniques. The DSFS leads to a reliable and economic decision whether a material is an NM or not based on scientific criteria and respecting regulatory requirements. The DSFS starts beyond regulatory requirements by identifying non‐NMs by a proxy approach based on their volume‐specific surface area. In a second step, it identifies NMs. The DSFS is tested on real‐world materials and is implemented in an e‐tool. The DSFS is compared with a decision flowchart of the European Commission’s (EC) Joint Research Centre (JRC), which rigorously follows the explicit criteria of the EC NM definition with the focus on identifying NMs, and non‐NMs are identified by exclusion. The two approaches build on the same scientific basis and measurement methods, but start from opposite ends: the JRC Flowchart starts by identifying NMs, whereas the NanoDefiner Framework first identifies non‐NMs.