bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of MJO in modulating rainfall characteristics observed over India in all seasons utilizing TRMM
Authors: Anandh P. C. , Vissa Naresh Krishna , Broderick Ciarán
Published: November 2017

The present study aims to understand the influence of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) on the seasonal and diurnal characteristics (amplitude and phase) of rainfall over the Indian subcontinent (lat. 10°S–38°N, long. 60°–100°E). The study is conducted for the period 1998–2015 and for each Indian season. To accomplish this, the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data set (3B42, version 7) is examined using indices quantifying rainfall frequency percentage and rainfall octet contribution, respectively. The real‐time multivariate (RMM) index developed by Wheeler and Hendon (2004) is used to partition the MJO into active, weak and suppressed phases. The results show that during active and weak phases (suppressed), positive (negative) rainfall anomalies are observed and the frequency of rainfall events is enhanced (lessened) over the most of the geometrically distinct regions. This finding is common to all seasons but is most prominent for weak phases (restricted to RMM phases 2–5) of the MJO during the monsoon season. Results suggest that the eastward propagation of the MJO over the Indian Ocean modulates rainfall across the India and neighbouring seas and countries – irrespective of the RMM index amplitude. Most works previously published focuses on the diurnal rainfall characteristics of the Indian summer monsoon (JJAS). The present study extends current understanding by investigating diurnal variation in rainfall related to the mean, active, weak and suppressed phases of MJO for each Indian season. Possible drivers of the diurnal cycle of rainfall over the oceans and continental regions were explored using recently reported observational and modelling studies. Our findings help understand rainfall processes for the Indian subcontinent and have practical application for numerical weather prediction, flood forecasting and water resource management regionally.
Pharmacist‐led therapeutic drug monitoring: implementation of a successful credentialing model
Authors: Cairns Kelly A. , O'Brien Daniel JW. , Corallo Carmela E. , Guidone Daniel M. , Dooley Michael J.
Published: November 2017

Extended scope of practice roles for pharmacists are relatively new in the Australian hospital setting; however they are increasing in uptake. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) represents a critical area for the involvement of pharmacists. The Alfred Health Pharmacy Department introduced a pharmacist‐led TDM program in 2012 for the vancomycin and aminoglycoside antibiotics. Following the development of an in‐house credentialing program, nearly 160 pharmacists have been successfully credentialed through the initial program and 95 pharmacists through annual re‐credentialing to date. The credentialing program consists of both initial credentialing (including a didactic lecture, pre‐reading, multiple choice questions and real‐life clinical cases) and annual re‐credentialing (including multiple choice questions and real‐life clinical cases). This paper aims to describe the innovative credentialing program that has been developed and sustained to meet the needs of a vancomycin and aminoglycoside pharmacist‐led therapeutic drug monitoring program.
Effect of ultra‐superheated steam on aflatoxin reduction and roasted peanut properties
Authors: Pukkasorn Parawee , Ratphitagsanti Wannasawat , Haruthaitanasan Vichai
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Aflatoxins are carcinogenic toxins produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus that are found naturally in peanut. It requires extremely high temperatures to eliminate aflatoxins from the nuts. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of ultra‐superheated steam (USS) on the reduction of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) accompanying the roasting process and to determine roasted peanut qualities that affected consumer acceptance.

RESULTS

Whole peanut kernels were intentionally contaminated by AFB1 standard solution at the level of 50 ± 10 µg kg−1 before subjecting to USS treatment at 300–400 °C between 10 and 80 s. The high temperature of USS could significantly decrease AFB1 level to 9.83 ± 3.51, 15.33 ± 2.23 and 8.95 ± 2.32 µg kg−1 when 300 °C for 80 s, 350 °C for 40 s and 400 °C for 40 s were employed, respectively. AFB1 was reduced as much as 83.86 ± 2.66% when 400 °C for 40 s was applied. The moisture content of treated peanuts was decreased to less than 3% and browning index was developed from 30.96 ± 1.59 to 95.76 ± 7.23.

CONCLUSION

Higher roasting degree was obtained according to the increase in browning index. Oil quality showed that peroxide values and acid values were greatly below the allowance level. USS could effectively decrease AFB1 and render expectable roasting qualities of peanut. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessment of ecosystems: A system for rigorous and rapid mapping of floodplain forest condition for Australia's most important river
Authors: Cunningham Shaun C. , Griffioen Peter , White Matt D. , Nally Ralph Mac
Published: November 2017

Methods that provide rapid assessments of changing ecosystems at multiple scales are needed to inform management to address undesirable change. We developed a remote‐sensing method in partnership with, and for use by, natural resource managers to predict annually stand condition of floodplain forests along Australia's longest river, the Murray River. A measure of stand condition, which was developed in collaboration with responsible natural resource managers, is a function of plant area index, crown extent, and the percentage live basal area. We surveyed a broad range of spatial and temporal variation in condition, built predictive stand‐condition models using satellite‐derived variables, and validated predictions with surveys of new sites. A multiyear model using data from 2 drought years and a year following extensive floods provided better predictions of stand condition than did models on the basis of the data for individual years. The model provided good predictions for data collected after the build for 50 sites and for resurveys of build sites in later years (R2 ≥ 0.86). There was limited, temporary improvement in stand condition after the extensive flooding (2010 to late 2010) that followed a 13‐year (1997 to early 2010) drought. Forest condition can be mapped accurately and annually at medium resolution (25 × 25 m) for large areas (100,000s ha) if quantitative ground surveys, satellite imagery, machine learning, and future validation are combined. Regular assessments of forest condition can be related to likely causes of change by using regular, rapid assessments and hence can provide important management information.
Relation between denaturation time measured by optical coherence reflectometry and thermal lesion depth during radiofrequency cardiac ablation: Feasibility numerical study
Authors: González‐Suárez Ana , Herranz David , Berjano Enrique , Rubio‐Guivernau Jose L. , Margallo‐Balbás Eduardo
Published: November 2017

Background/Objective

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to thermally destroy the focus of cardiac arrhythmias. Novel optical techniques are now being integrated into RF catheters in order to detect the changes in tissue properties. Loss of birefringence due to fiber denaturation at around 70°C is related to changes in accumulated phase retardation and can be measured by polarization‐sensitive optical coherence reflectometry (PS‐OCR). Since irreversible thermal lesions are produced when the tissue reaches 50°C, our goal was to seek the mathematical relationship between both isotherms.

Materials and Methods

A two‐dimensional model based on a coupled electric‐thermal problem was built and solved using the finite element method. The model consisted of cardiac tissue, blood, and a non‐irrigated electrode with a sensor embedded in its tip to maintain a specific target electrode temperature. Computer simulations were conducted by varying the tissue characteristics. Lesion depth was estimated by the 50°C isotherm, while the denaturation time (TD) was taken as the time at which the 70°C isotherm reached a depth of 0.75 mm (which corresponds to the optical depth reached by PS‐OCR technology).

Results

A strong correlation (R2 > 0.83) was found between TD and lesion depth and an even stronger correlation (R2 > 0.96) was found between TD and the time required to achieve a specific lesion depth. For instance, the ablation time required to ensure a minimum lesion depth of 3 mm was 1.33 × TD + 3.93 × seconds.

Conclusions

The computer results confirmed the strong relationship between denaturation time and lesion depth and suggest that measuring denaturation time by PS‐OCR could provide information on the ablation time required to reach a specific lesion depth. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:222–229, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photo‐Decomposable Sub‐Micrometer Albumin Particles Cross‐Linked by ortho‐Nitrobenzyl Derivatives
Authors: Li Huiying , Xiong Yu , Zhang Yixian , Tong Weijun , Georgieva Radostina , Bäumler Hans , Gao Changyou
Published: November 2017

Stimuli‐responsive particles are widely used as carriers for on‐demand delivery of drugs, genes, proteins, etc., due to their response to environmental stimuli. In this study, photoresponsive albumin sub‐micrometer particles are fabricated by using ortho‐nitrobenzyl derivative 4‐bromomethyl‐3‐nitrobenzoic acid (BNBA) as a cross‐linker. Bovine serum albumin (BSA)‐doped MnCO3 particles are used as the sacrificial template, in which the BSA molecules are cross‐linked by BNBA under the activation of 4‐(4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)‐4‐methylmorpholinium chloride. After removal of MnCO3 particles by ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid, photoresponsive BSA–BNBA sub‐micrometer particles are obtained. Since the CN bond formed via reaction of benzyl bromide and amine is photocleavable, the particles can be decomposed upon UV irradiation at 365 nm under acidic environment. The loaded macromolecules can be released upon UV irradiation, exhibiting great potential applications of the particles in the field of controlled release.
A Prerequisite of the Poly(ε‐Caprolactone) Self‐Induced Nanohybrid Shish–Kebab Structure Formation: An Ordered Crystal Lamellae Orientation Morphology of Fibers
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Gao Yanhong , Xu Yiyang , Li Xuyan , Jiang Jing , Hou Jianhua , Han WenJuan , Li Qian , Shen Changyu
Published: November 2017

The shish–kebab structure has been extensively applied in many fields; however, the formation mechanism is still an open question. In this study, different electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) fibers are applied as the shish material in a self‐induced crystallization process, and two different self‐induced crystal structures are obtained. The PCL fibers with an ordered crystalline morphology lead to an induced crystalline structure with the crystal lamellae perpendicular to the fiber axis. However, the PCL fibers with a disordered structure induce a complicated (less ordered) crystalline lamellae morphology. Investigation of the surface crystalline structure reveals that the self‐induced nanohybrid shish–kebab (SINSK) structure follows a lattice matching and epitaxial growth mechanism. The internal crystalline structure of PCL nanofibers plays a dominant role in the formation of the SINSK structure. This study may prove helpful in screening materials for formation of the SINSK structure.
Prevalence, management, and prognosis of bladder cancer in patients with neurogenic bladder: A systematic review
Authors: Ismail Salima , Karsenty Gilles , Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel , Cussenot Olivier , Compérat Eva , Rouprêt Morgan , Phé Véronique
Published: November 2017

Aim

To perform a systematic review of the literature regarding epidemiology, diagnosis, management and prognosis of bladder cancer in the neuro‐urological patient population, in order to serve as a basis for future recommendations and research.

Methods

A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA‐Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyzes Statement. Embase was searched for studies providing data on epidemiology, diagnosis, management and prognosis of bladder cancer in neuro‐urological patients.

Results

After screening 637 abstracts, 15 studies (13 retrospective and 2 prospective studies) were included in this study. We identified 332 patients (0.3%) who were diagnosed with bladder cancer. This mostly affected mostly men (59.3%) and spinal cord injured patients (98.8%). Mean age at diagnosis was 56.1 years. Bladder cancer occurred after a long period of evolution of the neurological disease (24.9 years). Gross hematuria was the predominating presenting symptom (31.6% of cases). Indwelling urethral or supra‐pubic catheters were used in 44.5% of patients. The most frequent histological subtype of bladder cancer was transitional cell carcinoma (53.1%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (33.5%). Muscle‐invasive bladder cancer was reported in 67.7% of patients. The mean cancer‐specific mortality rate was of 47.1%.

Conclusions

The prevalence and high mortality rate of bladder cancer in neuro‐urological patients underlines the importance of long‐term follow‐up in this specific population. This highlights the necessity of further studies in this field.
Transdermal light neuromodulation: Optogenetics in the murine urinary tract
Authors: Wallace Shannon L. , Kelley Robert S. , Mehta Shailja , Descalzi Giannina , Fantl John A. , Ascher‐Walsh Charles
Published: November 2017

Background

Optogenetics is a biologic technique that uses light to control living neurons, which have been genetically modified to express light‐sensitive ion‐channels.

Objectives

Using an adenovirus to modify the sciatic nerves of mice, we aim to demonstrate peripheral neuromodulation of bladder pain using transdermal light.

Study Design

This pilot study is divided into: A) Confirmation and Application and B) Behavioral Step. A) Six mice were injected with AAV6‐hSyn‐ChR2(H134R)‐eYFP virus into their sciatic nerves. This encoded an excitatory opsin, enabling light‐inducible stimulation. At 4‐6 weeks after injection, we induced foot pain responses with an activating blue 475 nm wavelength of light. B) Two optogenetically primed mice and two control mice underwent anesthesia and capsaicin was instilled into their bladders via catheter. The catheters were removed and the mice awoke in a chamber that exposed them to either blue 475 nm light or no light. Groin licking was scored in a binary fashion by two blinded observers.

Results

A) All six mice exhibited pain response to 475 nm blue light either by licking of foot or avoidance of light. B) The optogenetically primed mice had a 48% reduction in bladder pain behavior when exposed to blue 475 nm light whereas the control mice had a 18% reduction.

Conclusion

To our knowledge this is the first demonstration of the application of optogenetics to modulate sensation in the lower urinary tract. It suggests that the process of priming peripheral nerves for optogenetic modulation is possible and can be used to study bladder pain response in mice.
Fundraising as women's work? Examining the profession with a gender lens
Authors: Dale Elizabeth J.
Published: November 2017

Fundraising is a mission‐critical area for nonprofit organizations and has emerged as a professional field in the past 50 years. This paper explores the gendered nature of fundraising work and its feminization as a profession over time, while simultaneously documenting the persistence of a gender pay gap and male overrepresentation in senior‐level positions in both North America and in the UK. The application of gender theory reveals that fundraising roles and responsibilities rely on key relationship‐building and organizational tasks, which are commonly associated with stereotypical women's work and are, thus, valued less in a patriarchal society. As a result, the devaluing of fundraising as mission‐critical work, and a career suitable for both women and men, may limit the credibility and power of the nonprofit sector to represent diverse voices and enhance democratic values in society. The article concludes with recommendations for research and practice.
Endemic warfare and dental health in historic period archaeological series from Croatia
Authors: Šlaus M. , Bedić Ž. , Bačić A. , Bradić J. , Vodanović M. , Brkić H.
Published: November 2017

This study assesses the prevalence and distribution of caries, antemortem tooth loss, abscesses, calculus, alveolar bone resorption, and tooth wear in two large composite archaeological series from Croatia in order to determine the effects that long‐term, endemic warfare had on dental health and nutrition. The first series consists of dental material belonging to three cemeteries dated to the late medieval period (1100–1400), a period characterised by rapid social development, increased urbanisation, growth of trade, and an increase of monetary economy. The second belongs to three cemeteries from the early modern period (1400–1700) during which time Croatia was exposed to incessant Ottoman raiding and the gradual subjugation and incorporation of various Croatian territories into the Ottoman Empire.

Analyses of 4,789 permanent teeth belonging to adult males and females show significantly lower frequencies of carious lesions, abscesses, alveolar resorption, and heavy dental wear during the early modern period suggesting a significant change in alimentary habits with, surprisingly, better nutrition and a higher dependence on proteins during the period that Croatia was involved in low‐intensity, endemic warfare.

The improvement in dental health noted in the Ottoman period series was the result of a combination of circumstances that includes mass emigration of local populations caused by incessant Ottoman raiding, the resulting economic decline and wholesale abandonment of these territories, and the subsequent resettlement of these territories by a new group of peoples known as Vlachs who practised a different subsistence strategy based on pastoralism and cattle farming.
Stereolithography‐based 3D printed photosensitive polymer/boron nitride nanoplatelets composites
Authors: Bustillos Jenniffer , Montero‐Zambrano Daniela , Loganathan Archana , Boesl Benjamin , Agarwal Arvind
Published: November 2017

Photosensitive polymer‐based boron nitride nanoplatelets (PSP/BNNP) composites are fabricated via stereolithography (SLA) three‐dimensional (3D) printing technique. The influence of the BNNP addition on the curing, and the resulting microhardness, damping, and compressive strength is evaluated in composites with 0, 0.5, and 1 wt% BNNP. Damping response in 1 wt% BNNP composites was found to exhibit loss tangent (tan δ) values 2
higher than pure PSP (0.07–0.17). Enhanced damping properties in composites are attributed to the interfacial shearing and sliding of BNNP. The potential of BNNP as a reinforcement in SLA 3D printing scaffolds is shown by a 23.8% increase in compressive yield strength in 1 wt% BNNP as compared to 0.5 wt% BNNP. It is observed that interaction of the nanoparticles with the laser wavelength during the curing process is of prime importance in the successful manufacturing of 3D printed structures with improved functional properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:379–388, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of phase transitions on the electrical properties of polymer/carbon nanotube and polymer/graphene nanoplatelet composites with different conductive network structures
Authors: Xiang Dong , Wang Lei , Tang Yuhao , Zhao Chunxia , Harkin‐Jones Eileen , Li Yuntao
Published: November 2017

Multi‐walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)‐ and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)‐filled high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composites with dispersed and segregated network structures were prepared by solution‐assisted mixing. Simultaneous DC conductivity and differential scanning calorimetry were used to measure electrical conductivity during composite thermal phase transitions. It was found that the conductive network is deformed during melting and rebuilt again during annealing due to the re‐agglomeration of nanofillers. The rebuilding of the structure is significantly affected by the original network structure and by the shape and loading of the nanofillers. Both deformation and reorganization of the network lead to drastic changes in the conductivity of the composites. The crystallization process also affects the conductive network to some extent and the subsequent volume shrinkage of the polymeric matrix after crystallization results in a further decrease in the resistivity of HDPE/GNP composites. Classical electrical percolation theory combined with a kinetic equation is used to describe the conductivity recovery of composites during annealing, and the results are found to be in good agreement with experimental data. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Prosystemin, a prohormone that modulates plant defense barriers, is an intrinsically disordered protein
Authors: Buonanno Martina , Coppola Mariangela , Di Lelio Ilaria , Molisso Donata , Leone Marilisa , Pennacchio Francesco , Langella Emma , Rao Rosa , Monti Simona Maria
Published: November 2017

Prosystemin, originally isolated from Lycopersicon esculentum, is a tomato pro‐hormone of 200 aminoacid residues which releases a bioactive peptide of 18 aminoacids called Systemin. This signaling peptide is involved in the activation of defense genes in solanaceous plants in response to herbivore feeding damage. Using biochemical, biophysical and bioinformatics approaches we characterized Prosystemin, showing that it is an intrinsically disordered protein possessing a few secondary structure elements within the sequence. Plant treatment with recombinant Prosystemin promotes early and late plant defense genes, which limit the development and survival of Spodoptera littoralis larvae fed with treated plants.
Global substrate specificity profiling of post‐translational modifying enzymes
Authors: Ivry Sam L. , Meyer Nicole O. , Winter Michael B. , Bohn Markus F. , Knudsen Giselle M. , O'Donoghue Anthony J. , Craik Charles S.
Published: November 2017

Enzymes that modify the proteome, referred to as post‐translational modifying (PTM) enzymes, are central regulators of cellular signaling. Determining the substrate specificity of PTM enzymes is a critical step in unraveling their biological functions both in normal physiological processes and in disease states. Advances in peptide chemistry over the last century have enabled the rapid generation of peptide libraries for querying substrate recognition by PTM enzymes. In this article, we highlight various peptide‐based approaches for analysis of PTM enzyme substrate specificity. We focus on the application of these technologies to proteases and also discuss specific examples in which they have been used to uncover the substrate specificity of other types of PTM enzymes, such as kinases. In particular, we highlight our multiplex substrate profiling by mass spectrometry (MSP‐MS) assay, which uses a rationally designed, physicochemically diverse library of tetradecapeptides. We show how this method has been applied to PTM enzymes to uncover biological function, and guide substrate and inhibitor design. We also briefly discuss how this technique can be combined with other methods to gain a systems‐level understanding of PTM enzyme regulation and function.
Dynamics of One‐Dimensional Electrons With Broken Spin–Charge Separation
Authors: Gindikin Yasha , Sablikov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2017

Spin–charge separation is known to be broken in many physically interesting one‐dimensional (1D) and quasi‐1D systems with spin–orbit interaction because of which spin and charge degrees of freedom are mixed in collective excitations. Mixed spin–charge modes carry an electric charge and therefore can be investigated by electrical means. We explore this possibility by studying the dynamic conductance of a 1D electron system with image‐potential‐induced spin–orbit interaction. The real part of the admittance reveals an oscillatory behavior versus frequency that reflects the collective excitation resonances for both modes at their respective transit frequencies. By analyzing the frequency dependence of the conductance the mode velocities can be found and their spin–charge structure can be determined quantitatively.
GABA‐modulating phytomedicines for anxiety: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence
Authors: Savage Karen , Firth Joseph , Stough Con , Sarris Jerome
Published: November 2017

Anxiety disorders are chronic and functionally disabling conditions with high psychological stress, characterised by cognitive symptoms of excessive worry and focus difficulties and physiological symptoms such as muscle tension and insomnia. Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter within the central nervous system and is a key target of pharmacotherapies in the treatment of anxiety. Although current pharmaceutical treatments are often efficacious, they may cause undesirable side effects including cognitive decrements and withdrawal symptoms. Plant‐based “phytomedicines” may provide novel treatment options, to act as an adjunctive or alternative to existing anxiolytic medications. As such, we conducted a systematic review to assess the current body of literature on anxiolytic phytomedicines and/or phytoconstituents. An open‐ended search to 5 July 2017 was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Cochrane library online databases and performed in a stepped format from preclinical to clinical investigations. Eligible studies must have had (a) in vitro evidence of GABA‐modulating activity, (b) animal studies using anxiety models to test an anxiolytic effect, and (c) human clinical trials. Ten phytomedicines were identified as having preclinical investigations showing interaction with the GABA system, in addition to human clinical trials: kava, valerian, pennywort, hops, chamomile, Ginkgo biloba, passionflower, ashwagandha, skullcap, and lemon balm. Collectively, the literature reveals preclinical and clinical evidence for various phytomedicines modulating GABA‐pathways, with comparative anxiolytic effect to the current array of pharmaceuticals, along with good safety and tolerability profiles.
Evaluation of the effect of quercetin treatment on CYP2C9 enzyme activity of diclofenac in healthy human volunteers
Authors: Bedada Satish Kumar , Neerati Prasad
Published: November 2017

The purpose of present study was to evaluate the effect of quercetin on pharmacokinetics of diclofenac sodium (DIC) in healthy volunteers. The open‐label, 2 period, sequential study was conducted in 12 healthy volunteers. DIC 100 mg was administered during control and after quercetin phases. Quercetin 500 mg was administered twice daily for 10 days during quercetin phase. Treatment with quercetin significantly enhanced maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), area under the curve (AUC0‐∞), and half life, while significantly decreased elimination rate constant (kel) and apparent oral clearance (CL/F) of DIC compared with control. On the other hand, Cmax and AUC0‐∞ of 4‐hydroxydiclofenac (4‐OHDIC) were decreased after quercetin treatment. In addition, geometric mean ratios and 90% confidence intervals for Cmax and AUC0‐∞ of DIC and 4‐OHDIC were both out of the no‐effect limits of 0.80–1.25, which indicates a significant pharmacokinetic interaction between quercetin and DIC. Furthermore, quercetin treatment significantly decreased metabolic ratios of Cmax and AUC0‐∞ suggesting that reduced formation of DIC to 4‐OHDIC. The results suggest that quercetin might have inhibited CYP2C9‐mediated metabolism of DIC. Accordingly, caution should be taken when quercetin is used in combination with therapeutic drugs metabolized by CYP2C9, and dose adjustment of CYP2C9 substrates may be necessary.
Beneficial effects of an investigational wristband containing Synsepalum dulcificum (miracle fruit) seed oil on the performance of hand and finger motor skills in healthy subjects: A randomized controlled preliminary study
Authors: Gorin Steven , Wakeford Charles , Zhang Guodong , Sukamtoh Elvira , Matteliano Charles Joseph , Finch Alfred Earl
Published: November 2017

Miracle fruit (Synsepalum dulcificum) seed oil (MFSO) contains phytochemicals and nutrients reported to affect musculoskeletal performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a compression wristband containing MFSO on its ability to measurably improve the hand and finger motor skills of participants. Healthy right‐handed participants (n = 38) were randomized in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of MFSO and vehicle wristbands. Subjects wore the wristband on their left hand 4–6 weeks and then only on their right hand 2–4 weeks; the contralateral untreated hand served as an additional control. Twelve hand/finger motor skills were measured using quantitative bio‐instrumentation tests, and subject self‐assessment questionnaires were conducted. With each hand, in 9/12 tests, the MFSO group showed a clinically meaningful average improvement compared with an average worsening in the vehicle group. Statistical superiority to the control treatment group was exhibited in 9/12 tests for each hand (p < .01). After discontinuing the MFSO wristband on the left hand, test values regressed toward baseline levels. Subjects favored the MFSO wristband over the control, rating it as effective in improving their motor skills. Use of the MFSO wristband may improve an individual's manual dexterity skills and ability to maintain this performance.
6‐shogaol induces apoptosis and enhances radiosensitivity in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Kotowski Ulana , Kadletz Lorenz , Schneider Sven , Foki Elisabeth , Schmid Rainer , Seemann Rudolf , Thurnher Dietmar , Heiduschka Gregor
Published: November 2017

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is used for a wide array of conditions in traditional medicine in Asia, but little is known about the effect on head and neck cancer. In this study, the effect of two major pharmacologically active compounds of ginger, 6‐gingerol and 6‐shogaol, were studied on head and neck cancer cell lines. Furthermore, experiments in combination with established treatment methods for head and neck cancer were performed. Proliferation assays showed a dose‐dependent reduction of cell viability. Flow cytometry analysis revealed the induction of apoptosis. Western blot analysis indicated that the antiapoptotic protein survivin was suppressed after treatment. Although a combination of 6‐shogaol with cisplatin exhibited no synergistic effect, the combination with irradiation showed a synergistic reduction of clonogenic survival. In conclusion, ginger compounds have many noteworthy effects on head and neck cancer cell lines. In particular, the enhancement of radiosensitivity is remarkable.
Comparison of 3D‐Var and 4D‐Var data assimilation in an NWP‐based system for precipitation nowcasting at the Met Office
Authors: Li Zhihong , Ballard Susan P. , Simonin David
Published: November 2017

A high‐resolution demonstration Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) nowcasting system was developed and run in real time at the Met Office for the prediction of precipitation on a domain covering southern England and Wales. The hourly cycling nowcasting system, known as NDP (Nowcasting Demonstration Project), combined a 3 km resolution 4D‐Variational data assimilation (4D‐Var) and a 1.5 km resolution version of the Met Office Unified Model (UM) to provide hourly NWP analyses and forecasts for a period of 0–6 h. Central to the NDP was the rapid updating cycling and its timely delivery of analyses and forecasts using the latest conventional and sub‐hourly novel observations. In this article the benefits of using 4D‐Var assimilation compared to First Guess at Appropriate Time (FGAT) 3D‐Variational assimilation (3D‐Var) on forecasts of precipitation are considered by comparing model forecasts with radar‐derived hourly surface accumulations for the period of June 2012, using an objective, scale‐dependent verification scheme. It is shown that 4D‐Var assimilation has a positive impact on precipitation forecasting skills compared to the corresponding 3D‐Var assimilation for the whole nowcast period [T + 0, T + 6]. The 4D‐Var assimilation system produced forecasts with greater spatial accuracy and longer lead times with acceptable skill. By comparing 3D‐Var FGAT using sub‐hourly observations with 3D‐Var FGAT using only the observations closest to the analysis time, the sub‐hourly observations are seen to be beneficial in the hourly cycling convective‐scale system in both 3D‐Var FGAT and 4D‐Var. The forecast clearly benefitted from the use of extra, higher time frequency observations in both 3D‐Var and 4D‐Var.
Summary of ISO/TC 201 standard: ISO 19668—Surface chemical analysis—X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy—Estimating and reporting detection limits for elements in homogeneous materials
Authors: Shard A. G. , Clifford C. A.
Published: November 2017

This International Standard specifies a procedure by which elemental detection limits in X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) can be estimated from data for a particular sample in common analytical situations and reported. This document is applicable to homogeneous materials and is not applicable if the depth distribution of elements is inhomogeneous within the information depth of the technique.
Analytic function to describe interfaces and resolution consistency in sputter depth profiling
Authors: Seah M.P.
Published: November 2017

A simple analytical function is derived to describe the interface shapes measured in sputter depth profiling by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy or secondary ion mass spectrometry. This function involves the convolution of a central Gaussian function, often taken to describe the roughness, together with an exponential tail to describe mixing and an exponential approach often taken to describe an information depth. This model is consistent with Hofmann's mixing‐roughness‐information model that does the same by numerical analysis, but we present a direct analytical function that is more transparent to the user. The differential of the function gives Dowsett's function for delta layers. Depending on which of the 3 base parameters are identified as sample related, the analyst can obtain the centroid of the underlying composition. These functions are used to show the extent that the common measure of depth resolution for step edges and delta functions diverge as the profile becomes less Gaussian.
Berberine impairs embryonic development in vitro and in vivo through oxidative stress‐mediated apoptotic processes
Authors: Huang Chien‐Hsun , Huang Zi‐Wei , Ho Feng‐Ming , Chan Wen‐Hsiung
Published: November 2017

Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from several traditional Chinese herbal medicines, has been shown to suppress growth and induce apoptosis in some tumor cell lines. However, berberine has also been reported to attenuate H2O2‐induced oxidative injury and apoptosis. The basis for these ambiguous effects of berberine—triggering or preventing apoptosis—has not been well characterized to date. In the current investigation, we examined whether berberine exerts cytotoxic effects on mouse embryos at the blastocyst stage and affects subsequent embryonic development in vitro and in vivo. Treatment of blastocysts with berberine (2.5‐10 μM) induced a significant increase in apoptosis and a corresponding decrease in trophectoderm cell number. Moreover, the implantation success rate of blastocysts pretreated with berberine was lower than that of their control counterparts. Pretreatment with berberine was also associated with increased resorption of postimplantation embryos and decreased fetal weight. In an animal model, intravenous injection of berberine (2, 4, or 6 mg/kg body weight/d) for 4 days resulted in apoptosis of blastocyst cells and early embryonic developmental injury. Berberine‐induced injury of mouse blastocysts appeared to be attributable to oxidative stress‐triggered intrinsic apoptotic signaling processes that impaired preimplantation and postimplantation embryonic development. Taken together, our results clearly demonstrate that berberine induces apoptosis and retards early preimplantation and postimplantation development of mouse embryos, both in vitro and in vivo.
Computational challenges in Astrochemistry
Authors: Biczysko Malgorzata , Bloino Julien , Puzzarini Cristina
Published: November 2017

Cosmic evolution is the tale of progressive transition from simplicity to complexity. The newborn universe starts with the simplest atoms formed after the Big Bang and proceeds toward ‘astronomical complex organic molecules’ (astroCOMs). Understanding the chemical evolution of the universe is one of the main aims of Astrochemistry, with the starting point being the knowledge whether a molecule is present in the astronomical environment under consideration and, if so, its abundance. However, the interpretation of astronomical detections and the identification of molecules are not all straightforward. In particular, molecular species characterized by large amplitude motions represent a major challenge for molecular spectroscopy and, in particular, for computational spectroscopy. More in general, for flexible systems, the conformational equilibrium needs to be taken into account and accurately investigated. It is shown that crucial challenges in the computational spectroscopy of astroCOMs can be successfully overcome by combining state‐of‐the‐art quantum‐mechanical approaches withad hoctreatments of the nuclear motion, thus demonstrating that the rotational and vibrational features can be predicted with the proper accuracy. The second key step in Astrochemistry is understanding how astroCOMs are formed and how they chemically evolve toward more complex species. The challenges in the computational chemistry of astroCOMs are related to the derivation of feasible formation routes in the typically harsh conditions (extremely low temperature and density) of the interstellar medium, as well as the understanding of the chemical evolution of small species toward macromolecules. Within the transition state theory, for instance, it is possible to obtain new astrochemical information by identifying the intermediate species and transition states connecting them in a plausible formation route. Depending on the sophistication of the model, different quantities may be needed. Nevertheless, accuracy can be critical, thus requiring state‐of‐the‐art computational approaches to derive geometries, energies, spectroscopic properties, and thermochemical data for each relevant structure along the reaction path.

This article is categorized under:

Theoretical and Physical Chemistry > Spectroscopy

Electronic Structure Theory > Ab Initio Electronic Structure Methods

Electronic Structure Theory > Density Functional Theory
Spontaneous CP violation in multi-Higgs potentials with triplets of Δ(3n2) and Δ(6n2)
Authors: de Medeiros Varzielas Ivo , King Stephen F. , Luhn Christoph , Neder Thomas
Published: November 2017

Abstract

Motivated by discrete flavour symmetry models, we analyse Spontaneous CP Violation (SCPV) for potentials involving three or six Higgs fields (both electroweak doublets and singlets) which fall into irreducible triplet representations of discrete symmetries belonging to the Δ(3n
2) and Δ(6n
2) series, including A
4, S
4, Δ(27) and Δ(54). For each case, we give the potential and find various global minima for different regions of the parameter space of the potential. Using CP-odd basis Invariants that indicate the presence of Spontaneous CP Violation we separate the VEVs into those that do or do not violate CP. In cases where CP is preserved we reveal a CP symmetry of the potential that is preserved by those VEVs, otherwise we display a non-zero CP-odd Invariant. Finally we identify interesting cases where there is Spontaneous Geometrical CP Violation in which the VEVs have geometrical phases.
The S-matrix bootstrap II: two dimensional amplitudes
Authors: Paulos Miguel F. , Penedones Joao , Toledo Jonathan , van Rees Balt C. , Vieira Pedro
Published: November 2017

Abstract

We consider constraints on the S-matrix of any gapped, Lorentz invariant quantum field theory in 1 + 1 dimensions due to crossing symmetry and unitarity. In this way we establish rigorous bounds on the cubic couplings of a given theory with a fixed mass spectrum. In special cases we identify interesting integrable theories saturating these bounds. Our analytic bounds match precisely with numerical bounds obtained in a companion paper where we consider massive QFT in an AdS box and study boundary correlators using the technology of the conformal bootstrap.
Full diffeomorphism and Lorentz invariance in 4D $$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$ superfield description of 6D SUGRA
Authors: Abe Hiroyuki , Aoki Shuntaro , Sakamura Yutaka
Published: November 2017

Abstract

We complete the four-dimensional

$$ \mathcal{N}=1 $$

N
=
1

superfield description of six-dimensional supergravity. The missing ingredients in the previous works are the superfields that contain the sechsbein

$$ {e}_4^{\underline{\nu}},{e}_5^{\underline{\nu}},{e}_{\mu}^{\underline{4}},{e}_{\mu}^{\underline{5}} $$

e
4

ν
¯

,

e
5

ν
¯

,

e
μ

4
¯

,

e
μ

5
¯

and the second gravitino. They are necessary to make the action invariant under the diffeomorphisms and the Lorentz transformations involving the extra dimensions. We find the corresponding superfield transformation laws, and show the invariance of the action under them. We also check that the resultant action reproduces the known superfield description of five-dimensional supergravity through the dimensional reduction.
“Where Does it Come from?” Experiences Among Survivors and Parents of Children with Retinoblastoma in Kenya
Authors: Gedleh Amal , Lee Siwon , Hill Jessica A. , Umukunda Yvonne , Qaiser Seemi , Kabiru Joy , Kimani Kahaki , Njambi Lucy , Kitonyi Grace , Dimaras Helen
Published: November 2017

Genetic testing and counseling have become integral to the timely control of heritable cancers, like the childhood eye cancer retinoblastoma. This study aimed to determine attitudes, knowledge and experiences related to retinoblastoma genetics, among survivors and parents of children with retinoblastoma in Kenya. This qualitative study used focus groups as the primary data collection method, coupled with a brief demographic questionnaire. Study settings were Kenyatta National Hospital and Presbyterian Church of East Africa Kikuyu Hospital. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes. Thirty‐one individuals participated in five focus groups. Two main concepts emerged: (1) the origins of retinoblastoma are unclear, and (2) retinoblastoma is associated with significant challenges. The lack of clarity surrounding the origins of retinoblastoma was linked to limited knowledge of retinoblastoma genetics, and limited genetic counseling delivery and uptake. The challenges associated with retinoblastoma were discussed in terms of the impact of the diagnosis on individuals and families, and unmet healthcare needs related to the diagnosis. Next steps will incorporate these findings to develop evidence‐informed and accessible cancer genetic services in Kenya.
PMTDS: a computational method based on genetic interaction networks for Precision Medicine Target‐Drug Selection in cancer
Authors: Vasudevaraja Varshini , Renbarger Jamie , Girish Shah Ridhhi , Kinnebrew Garrett , Korc Murray , Wang Limei , Huo Yang , Liu Enze , Li Lang , Cheng Lijun
Published: November 2017

Background

Precision medicine attempts to tailor the right therapy for the right patient. Recent progress in large‐scale collection of patents’ tumor molecular profiles in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) provides a foundation for systematic discovery of potential drug targets specific to different types of cancer. However, we still lack powerful computational methods to effectively integrate multiple omics data and protein‐protein interaction network technology for an optimum target and drug recommendation for an individual patient.

Methods

In this study, a computation method, Precision Medicine Target‐
Drug Selection (PMTDS) based on genetic interaction networks is developed to select the optimum targets and associated drugs for precision medicine style treatment of cancer. The PMTDS system includes three parts: a personalized medicine knowledgebase for each cancer type, a genetic interaction network‐based algorithm and a single patient molecular profiles. The knowledgebase integrates cancer drugs, drug‐target databases and gene biological pathway networks. The molecular profiles of each tumor consists of DNA copy number alteration, gene mutation, and tumor gene expression variation compared to its adjacent normal tissue.

Results

The novel integrated PMTDS system is applied to select candidate target‐drug pairs for 178 TCGA pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumors. The experiment results show known drug targets (EGFR, IGF1R, ERBB2, NR1I2 and AKR1B1) of PDAC treatment are identified, which provides important evidence of the PMTDS algorithm’s accuracy. Other potential targets PTK6, ATF, SYK are, also, recommended for PDAC. Further validation is provided by comparison of selected targets with, both, cell line molecular profiles from the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE) and drug response data from the Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal (CTRP). Results from experimental analysis of forty six individual pancreatic cancer samples show that drugs selected by PMTDS have more sample‐specific efficacy than the current clinical PDAC therapies.

Conclusions

A novelty target and drug priority algorithm PMTDS is developed to identify optimum target‐drug pairs by integrating the knowledgebase base with a single patient’s genomics. The PMTDS system provides an accurate and reliable source for target and off‐label drug selection for precision cancer medicine.
Links between gendered leisure time in childhood and adolescence and gendered occupational aspirations
Authors: Lee Bora , Skinner Olivenne D. , McHale Susan M.
Published: November 2017

The world of work remains gender‐segregated, and research is needed to identify factors that may give rise to women's and men's vocational choices. This study explored bidirectional relations between youth's gendered career aspirations and the proportions of youth's leisure time spent in stereotypically gendered activities and gendered social contexts. Participants were 203 youth (52% girls) from predominantly white, working and middle class families living in the US, who reported on their occupational aspirations and gendered interests in home interviews and on their daily activities in a series of 7 nightly phone interviews on two occasions, in middle childhood (Mage = 10.9) and in adolescence (Mage = 17.3). Path models revealed that aspirations predicted youth's time use more so than the reverse. Time in gendered social contexts, specifically time in female‐only contexts, but not time in gender‐typed activities, predicted career aspirations. Implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Operation Clean Air: Implementing a Surgical Smoke Evacuation Program
Authors: Dobbie Mary K. , Fezza Maria , Kent Martha , Lu Jane , Saraceni Mark L. , Titone Susan
Published: November 2017

Surgical smoke is a hazardous byproduct of any surgery involving a laser or an electrosurgical unit. Although research and professional organizations identified surgical smoke as harmful many years ago, this byproduct continues to be a safety hazard in the OR. An interdisciplinary team at a large academic medical center sought to address the exposure of patients and perioperative team members to surgical smoke. The team used the nursing process to resolve the lack of smoke‐evacuator equipment and surgical smoke staff member knowledge. To increase awareness of the hazards of surgical smoke, we gave presentations to nursing staff members and surgeons, who then completed educational modules. We conducted audits in all ORs to monitor compliance. The use of smoke evacuation supplies has more than quadrupled since education began. Additional unit‐based education continues every day and is a constant reminder that safety is the responsibility of all perioperative team members.