bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of vector tick exposure initially increases, then declines through time in response to wildfire in California
Authors: MacDonald Andrew J. , Hyon David W. , McDaniels Akira , O'Connor Kerry E. , Swei Andrea , Briggs Cheryl J.
Published: May 2018

Identifying the effects of human‐driven perturbations, such as species introductions or habitat fragmentation, on the ecology and dynamics of infectious disease has become a central focus of disease ecologists. Yet, comparatively little is known about how the ecology of zoonotic disease systems responds to catastrophic disturbance events such as wildfires or hurricanes. In California, wildfire disturbance is centrally important to the ecology of forests and oak woodlands and is projected to increase in severity and extent under future climate change. Here, taking advantage of a recent wildfire as a natural experiment, we investigate the effects of wildfire disturbance on the ecology of tick‐borne disease in California oak woodlands. We find that wildfire leads to elevated abundance of questing adult and nymphal western blacklegged ticks (Ixodes pacificus) in the year following fire, relative to unburned control plots, but that vector tick abundance declines sharply in the following two years. We find that the abundance of non‐competent hosts (western fence lizards) for the Lyme disease bacterium is unaffected by fire, but that the abundances of important reproductive hosts (deer) for ticks and reservoir hosts (dusky‐footed woodrats) for tick‐borne pathogens are significantly negatively affected by fire. We found ticks and hosts infected withBorrelia burgdorferisensu lato only within the burn extent and only in the year following the wildfire, though rates of infection were exceedingly low representing little risk to humans. In aggregate, due to the differential effects of this catastrophic disturbance event on different key host species and vector tick life stages in the transmission of tick‐borne pathogens, we conclude that wildfire may potentially increase risk of exposure to vector ticks in the first year following wildfire in California, but that risk is dampened substantially in following years due to tick population declines and loss of key reservoir hosts from the system.
Dynamic changes in intrathymic ILC populations during murine neonatal development
Authors: Jones Rhys , Cosway Emilie J. , Willis Claire , White Andrea J. , Jenkinson William E. , Fehling Hans J. , Anderson Graham , Withers David R.
Published: May 2018

Members of the innate lymphoid cell (ILC) family have been implicated in the development of thymic microenvironments and the recovery of this architecture after damage. However, a detailed characterization of this family in the thymus is lacking. To better understand the thymic ILC compartment, we have utilized multiple in vivo models including the fate mapping of inhibitor of DNA binding‐2 (Id2) expression and the use of Id2 reporter mice. Our data demonstrate that ILCs are more prominent immediately after birth, but were rapidly diluted as the T‐cell development program increased. As observed in the embryonic thymus, CCR6+NKp46− lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells were the main ILC3 population present, but numbers of these cells swiftly declined in the neonate and ILC3 were barely detectable in adult thymus. This loss of ILC3 means ILC2 are the dominant ILC population in the thymus. Thymic ILC2 were able to produce IL‐5 and IL‐13, were located within the medulla, and did not result from ILC3 plasticity. Furthermore, in WT mice, thymic ILC2 express little RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand) arguing that functionally, these cells provide different signals to LTi cells in the thymus. Collectively, these data reveal a dynamic switch in the ILC populations of the thymus during neonatal development.
Effective Determination of Zn2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ Simultaneously By Using Dual‐Emissive Carbon Dots as Colorimetric Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Yu Liying , Ren Guojuan , Tang Mingyu , Zhu Baoya , Chai Fang , Li Gang , Xu Dandan
Published: May 2018

Dual‐emissive fluorescent glutathione carbon dots (GSH‐CDs) have been synthesized by a green hydrothermal method and used as a colorimetric fluorescent probe for the multi‐detection of Zn2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ individually or simultaneously. The GSH‐CDs exhibit dual fluorescence emission at 460 and 683 nm, which results in cyan fluorescence emission under UV light. The dual‐emissive GSH‐CDs can be used as a multifunctional colorimetric fluorescent nanoprobe for precise and quantitative detection of Zn2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ through a change in the color of the fluorescence. Upon interaction with Zn2+, the fluorescent color of the GSH‐CDs was transformed from cyan to pink. When exposed to Mn2+ or Cu2+, the fluorescence color was transformed from cyan to blue. When the three ions were present simultaneously, the cyan fluorescence emission changed to a nattier blue. The minimum limits of detection (LODs) for Zn2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ were calculated to be 9.64, 3.24, and 1.7 nm, respectively. As far as we know, this is the first report of the use of dual‐emissive carbon dots for the multi‐detection of heavy‐metal ions. Moreover, the multi‐detection of Zn2+, Mn2+, and Cu2+ in real environmental water by GSH‐CDs was also investigated. In addition the GSH‐CDs can be applied in cell imaging.
A simulated roadmap of hydrogen technology contribution to climate change mitigation based onRepresentativeConcentrationPathways considerations
Authors: Lazarou Stavros , Vita Vasiliki , Diamantaki Maria , Karanikolou‐Karra Diotima , Fragoyiannis George , Makridis Sofoklis , Ekonomou Lambros
Published: May 2018

Hydrogen as fuel has been a promising technology toward climate change mitigation efforts. To this end, in this paper we analyze the contribution of hydrogen technology to our future environmental goals. It is assumed that hydrogen is being produced in higher efficiency across time and this is simulated on Global Change Assessment Model (GCAM). The environmental restrictions applied are the expected emissions representative concentration pathways (RCP) 2.6, 4.5, and 6.0. Our results have shown increasing hydrogen production as the environmental constraints become stricter and hydrogen more efficient in being produced. This increase has been quantified and provided on open access as Supporting Information to this manuscript.
Connectivity as an emergent property of geomorphic systems
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Brierley Gary , Cadol Daniel , Coulthard Tom J. , Covino Tim , Fryirs Kirstie A. , Grant Gordon , Hilton Robert G. , Lane Stuart N. , Magilligan Francis J. , Meitzen Kimberly M. , Passalacqua Paola , Poeppl Ronald E. , Rathburn Sara L. , Sklar Leonard S.
Published: May 2018

Connectivity describes the efficiency of material transfer between geomorphic system components such as hillslopes and rivers or longitudinal segments within a river network. Representations of geomorphic systems as networks should recognize that the compartments, links, and nodes exhibit connectivity at differing scales. The historical underpinnings of connectivity in geomorphology involve management of geomorphic systems and observations linking surface processes to landform dynamics. Current work in geomorphic connectivity emphasizes hydrological, sediment, or landscape connectivity. Signatures of connectivity can be detected using diverse indicators that vary from contemporary processes to stratigraphic records or a spatial metric such as sediment yield that encompasses geomorphic processes operating over diverse time and space scales. One approach to measuring connectivity is to determine the fundamental temporal and spatial scales for the phenomenon of interest and to make measurements at a sufficiently large multiple of the fundamental scales to capture reliably a representative sample. Another approach seeks to characterize how connectivity varies with scale, by applying the same metric over a wide range of scales or using statistical measures that characterize the frequency distributions of connectivity across scales. Identifying and measuring connectivity is useful in basic and applied geomorphic research and we explore the implications of connectivity for river management. Common themes and ideas that merit further research include; increased understanding of the importance of capturing landscape heterogeneity and connectivity patterns; the potential to use graph and network theory metrics in analyzing connectivity; the need to understand which metrics best represent the physical system and its connectivity pathways, and to apply these metrics to the validation of numerical models; and the need to recognize the importance of low levels of connectivity in some situations. We emphasize the value in evaluating boundaries between components of geomorphic systems as transition zones and examining the fluxes across them to understand landscape functioning. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic mechanical analysis of pure and fiber‐reinforced thermoset‐ and thermoplastic‐based polymers and free volume‐based viscoelastic modeling
Authors: Kehrer Loredana , Wicht Daniel , Wood Jeffrey T. , Böhlke Thomas
Published: May 2018

Fiber‐reinforced polymer composites have gained significant importance in engineering applications and are widely used as structural components. The optimal choice of combinations of the type of polymer matrix and the fiber content depend on the required applications. In view of this, polypropylene (PP), a thermoplastic, reinforced with 30 wt.% of short glass fibers (PP‐GF30) is considered for this study. Additionally, a rather new composite system based on unsaturated polyester‐polyurethane hybrid resin (UPPH) is introduced. This thermoset‐based material is reinforced with 41 wt.% of long discontinuous glass fibers (UPPH‐GF41). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is performed on the pure polymer and the composite samples to experimentally characterize the temperature‐ and frequency‐dependent material behavior. It is observed that the stiffness of the materials is highly temperature‐dependent. PP exhibits a nonlinear viscoelastic behavior in the temperature range of possible applications whereas the UPPH material shows a less pronounced behavior. The resulting experimental data not only give general information on the material behavior of the composite subjected to a temperature and frequency load but also provide input as well as validation data for the developed material modeling methods. In an industrial environment, homogenized elastic material properties are desirable for analysis of the structural components at room temperature conditions. A mean field homogenization method is introduced to estimate the effective elastic material properties on a macroscopic scale. This method is formulated explicitly in terms of orientation tensors of second‐ and fourth‐order, describing quantitatively the microstructure of the corresponding composite. Additionally, the thermoviscoelastic material behavior for the considered temperature range is modeled by the free volume concept. In this context, the material parameters for the pure PP and UPPH material are identified. The calculated simulation results are compared with the experimental data entailing good agreements.
Hopkinson bar experiments as a method to determine impact properties of brittle and ductile materials
Authors: Weinberg Kerstin , Khosravani Mohammad Reza , Thimm Benedikt , Reppel Thomas , Bogunia Lukas , Aghayan Sam , Nötzel Ralf
Published: May 2018

Split Hopkinson bar experiments are fundamental test arrangements to determine elastic, plastic, and fracture properties of materials under high strain rates. A specimen is considered to be in a well‐defined state of uniaxial stress, and depending on the specific device, limit loads or high strains can be achieved through purely elastic loading in the bars where there are no shock waves present. Variations of the conventional Hopkinson bar procedure allow determining of the dynamic fracture toughness of brittle materials. Here, the results of dynamic Brazilian tests on ultra‐high performance concrete are compared with the results of spallation experiments that simultaneously allow for the determination of the specific fracture energy. Similar experiments are performed for water ice. In addition, the strain rate dependence of the plastic hardening of a medium carbon steel is investigated. The yield stress is determined at strain rates up to 1300s−1.
Short‐term prediction of shotcrete utilization based on observations during tunnelling
Authors: Entfellner Manuel , Kluckner Alexander , Lenz Gerold , Poisel Alexander , Schubert Wulf
Published: June 2018

Displacement curves in tunnelling depend both on time and the distance from the face and have thus not died down immediately after excavation. Therefore – the applied shotcrete lining experiences temporally variable loading, which depends on the forced strain curve and on the material behaviour of the shotcrete. Overloading of the shotcrete lining leads to crack formation, costly and laborious repair work and possibly also to dangerous situations for those present at the location, and should therefore be prevented. With the method presented in this article, which combines geological‐geotechnical parameters and the interpretation of measured displacement data, the accuracy of the short‐term prediction of the system behaviour can be improved. This makes it possible to react early to any potential overloading of the planned support and adapt it if necessary (e.g. changeover to ductile support). The article concludes with an explanation of the method through the example of the Semmering Base Tunnel, contract SBT 1.1 – Tunnel Gloggnitz.
The War on Landmines
Authors: Baer Christoph , Musch Thomas , Rolfes Ilona , Sachs Jürgen
Published: June 2018

Decades of guerilla warfare in Colombia have left behind a deadly legacy of thousands of landmines. Now a German‐Colombian partnership is developing new ways of detecting these often improvised devices. Innovative technologies such as these can help further the incipient peace process.
Development of the Adolescent Attitudes towards Dementia Scale (A‐ADS)
Authors: Griffiths Alys Wyn , Parveen Sahdia , Shafiq Saba , Oyebode Jan R.
Published: May 2018

Objective

There has been an increasing interest in establishing dementia friendly communities leading to the development and delivery of various dementia awareness initiatives. These initiatives have generally been aimed at adults; however, to sustain dementia friendly communities, the involvement of young people is imperative. Very few dementia awareness initiatives exist for young people, and none have been independently evaluated to establish their impact. This research aimed to design and develop a scale to measure adolescents' attitudes towards dementia to allow such initiatives to be evaluated.

Methods

The Adolescent Attitudes toward Dementia Scale was developed in 2 stages. Firstly, cognitive interviews were conducted with 15 young people, and secondly, a new scale (based on items from 2 existing scales) was piloted with 262 young people, recruited through schools.

Results

A scale consisting of 23 items was developed. Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated that this captured 3 factors: perceptions of dementia, personal sacrifice, and empathy with people living with dementia. The 3 sub‐scales showed adequate internal consistency (>.60), correlated with the original scales (r = .79–.91, P < .001) and correlated with an existing measure of attitudes towards older people at a similar level to the original scales (r = .47, P < .001).

Discussion

The scale will allow the evaluation of educational initiatives for young people and provide a validated and standardised measure to establish adolescents' attitudes towards dementia.
The influence of the individual neuropsychiatric symptoms of people with Alzheimer disease on family caregiver distress—A longitudinal ALSOVA study
Authors: Hallikainen Ilona , Koivisto Anne M. , Välimäki Tarja
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Family caregivers (FCs) face a variety of demands while caring for persons with Alzheimer disease (AD). Longitudinal studies identifying the specific AD‐related neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) that contribute to FC distress are rare. We analyzed which NPS in association with care recipient and caregiver demographic factors are associated with FC psychological distress over a 36‐month follow‐up period.

Design

This is a longitudinal study with annual follow‐up. Participants were people with AD (n = 226) and their FCs (n = 226).

Measurements

The Neuropsychiatric Inventory was used to assess NPS, and The General Health Questionnaire was used as a measure of caregiver distress. The effect of NPS on FC psychological distress over time was analyzed using a linear‐mixed effect model.

Results

Delusions (P = .003), agitation (P < .001), and sleep disturbance (P = .005) are associated with FC psychological distress. One of four people with AD developed delusions and agitation during the early stages of the disease. Sleep disturbances increased over the follow‐up time. A marital relationship was associated with FC distress, while some prevalent symptoms, such as depression, did not affect distress.

Conclusions

Delusions, agitation, and sleep disturbances may cause distress to the FCs of persons with AD, especially if they live together. Clinicians should meet with FCs regularly and recognize those FCs at risk for a decline in psychosocial health.
The incidence and body site of skin cancers in the population groups of Astana, Kazakhstan
Authors: McLoone Pauline , McLoone Philip , Imanbayev Khalel , Norval Mary
Published: May 2018

Background and aims

Data on cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM), squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (SCC), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in populations consisting of multi‐racial groups in the Commonwealth of Independent States are limited. Here, the main aim was to analyse the incidence and body site of these cancers in the population groups of Astana, Kazakhstan (2007‐2016).

Methods

Annual age standardised incidences and body sites of BCC, SCC, and CMM in Astana's population, divided into “Kazakhs and other Turkic/Asian” and “Russian and other European/Caucasian” groups, were calculated from histologically confirmed cases reported to Astana Oncology Centre.

Results

During the period January 2007 to October 2016, 647 skin cancers were diagnosed. The age and sex standardised incidence of BCC, SCC, and CMM increased significantly between 2007 to 2011 and 2012 to 2016. Higher incidences occurred in the Russian and other European/Caucasian group compared with the Kazakh and other Turkic/Asian group for the 3 skin cancers. BCC was the most common type of skin tumour, followed by SCC, and then CMM, in both population groups and sexes. The head/neck was the commonest site for BCC and SCC in all groups. For CMM, the most frequent site was the trunk in the Russian group and the head/neck in the Kazakh group.

Conclusion

The incidence of skin tumours in Astana rose over the past 10 years. Differences in skin phototypes and sun exposure/ protection behaviours may account for the more frequent occurrence of skin tumours in the Russian population group compared with the Kazakh population group.
A SHARED ANTIGENIC DETERMINANT BETWEEN HUMAN B LYMPHOCYTES AND CARCINOMAS (BLCa)
Authors: CHAN K.H. , YIP T.C. , NG W.L. , NG Mun H.
Published: May 2018

We have raised a murine 1gM monoclonal antibody (MA6) against immunoprecipitate obtained by reacting the serum of an NPC patient with extract of the Burkitt lymphoma cell line, Raji. It reacts against an antigen (BLCa) which is broadly represented on human B lymphoid tissues and cell lines but is different from the functional B‐cell markers such as surface immunoglobulins, la products, Fc and complement receptors. BLCa was found to occur on lymphoid cell lines representing all stages of B‐cell differentiation. These included the pre‐B and null‐cell lines, Nalm 6 and Reh, the EBV‐transformed lymphoid cell lines and the myeloma cell line. MA6 was reactive against all the Burkitt lymphoma cell lines, whether or not these harbored the EBV genomes, with the exception of P3HR‐1. The antibody was found to be selectively reactive against a proportion of peripheral blood B lymphocytes and to stain the B‐cell‐rich primary follicles and mantle zones of secondary follicles in the lymph node. However, MA6 was not reactive against cell lines of T‐lymphocyte, myeloid, monocyte fibroblast or epithelial origin. It did, nevertheless selectively stain tumor cells from a variety of carcinoma tissues originating from different anatomical sites, including the nasopharynx.
CLONAL ANALYSIS OF T LYMPHOCYTES ISOLATED FROM OVARIAN CARCINOMA ASCITIC FLUID. PHENOTYPIC AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF T‐CELL CLONES CAPABLE OF LYSING AUTOLOGOUS CARCINOMA CELLS
Authors: FERRINI Silvano , BIASSONI Roberto , MORETTA Alessandro , BRUZZONE Milena , NICOLIN Angelo , MORETTA Lorenzo
Published: May 2018

T lymphocytes isolated from ascitic fluid of patients with stage III–IV ovarian carcinoma were cloned by means of a microculture system that allows cloning of virtually all peripheral blood human T lymphocytes. Under these experimental conditions, 15% to 42% of ascitic T cells gave rise to clonal progenies that were analyzed for different functional capabilities. Of the clones obtained, 36%–70% had cytolytic activity in a PHA‐dependent assay (using P815 as target cells) that allowed detection of cytolytic cells of any specificity. About one‐half of the cytolytic clones lysed the NK‐sensitive K562 target cells as well. In addition, 30%–50% of the total clones released IL‐2 upon stimulation with PHA for 24 hr. In all patients analyzed a variable proportion (11%–56% of all cytolytic clones) had cytolytic activity against autologous tumor cells. Some of these clones have been analyzed in more detail: 18/21 expressed the T4−T8+phenotype, whereas the remaining 3 were T4+T8−. Only one out of 6 clones tested lysed allogeneic ovarian carcinoma cells as well, while 5/8 had a definite NK‐like activity. Finally, all 8 clones tested were inhibited by anti‐T11 and 7/8 by anti‐T8 monoclonal antibody.
Writing Together: Online Synchronous Collaboration in Middle School
Authors: Krishnan Jenell , Cusimano Andrew , Wang Dakuo , Yim Soobin
Published: May 2018

The authors showcase the use of DocuViz, an information visualization tool, as a means to support middle school students’ online synchronous collaborative writing. The purpose of this study was to explore writing outcomes when students write in groups and independently. Providing students with a tool to help them understand their individual contributions to a collaboratively written Google Doc may be one reason why group‐written essays were significantly longer and received significantly higher rubric scores when compared with the independently written essays. Results also indicated that group writing had a positive impact on later independent essay writing. Student survey results reflect positive reactions to online collaborative writing. The authors conclude with a discussion of the theoretical contributions that this study makes to New Literacies Studies and provide guidelines for teachers interested in supporting students’ writing development through technology‐enhanced strategies that position students as partners in the writing process.
A review on application of graphene‐based microfluidics
Authors: Chen Xueye , Zhang Shuai , Han Wenbo , Wu Zhongli , Chen Yao , Wang Shouxin
Published: May 2018

This review reports on the progress of recent developments in graphene‐based microfluidics. The applications of graphene‐based microfluidics that are the focus of this work are illustrated and discussed mainly with examples from detection of viruses and disease, detection of proteins and glucose, detection of contaminants, and applications in sensors and material preparation. A variety of microfluidic devices integrated with graphene are expounded and analysed. This paper will provide an expedient and valuable reference to designers researching graphene‐based microfluidics for various applications. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Reactor modelling of treatment chamber for the inactivation of Escherichia coli by radio frequency electric field – mechanistic versus empirical approaches
Authors: Masood Hassan , Cullen Patrick J , Lee Nanju A , Trujillo Francisco J
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Inactivation of Escherichia coli, suspended in McIlvaine buffer, was investigated by the application of radio frequency electric field (RFEF) under single‐stage, multi‐stage and recirculation flow configurations using a parallel‐plate treatment chamber. Changes in the survival fraction were correlated, through predictive microbiology, as a function of key process parameters: electric field strength, temperature, time and flow rate, as well as the intrinsic media properties: pH and electrical conductivity. Various empirical models, including Hülsheger, Peleg, Geeraerd and Weibull were compared with mechanistic models, such as the first‐order exponential decay and the two‐term exponential models. Mechanistic models were employed to formulate reactor models by performing differential mass balances over the inactivation chambers, with plug‐flow‐reactor (PFR) assumption for single‐ and multi‐stage configurations, and differential PFR for recirculation configuration.

RESULTS

The single‐stage configuration with variable flow rate was proven unsuitable for kinetic studies. Nonlinear logarithmic inactivation profiles were observed with multi‐stage and recirculation. The two‐term exponential mechanistic model effectively explained the kinetics of inactivation. Treatment chambers were successfully modelled mechanistically with reaction engineering principles. Common kinetic constants fitted the experimental data for all flow configurations. The intrinsic properties of media also influenced process kinetics.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of variable resistances amongst microbial population adds nonlinearity in RFEF processing with the extension of the treatment time. The research showed that unlike empirical models, the mechanistic approach can explain the complex inactivation behaviour for all flow configurations. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Morphological and kinematic specializations of walking frogs
Authors: Reynaga Crystal M. , Astley Henry C. , Azizi Emanuel
Published: May 2018

The anuran body plan is defined by morphological features associated with saltatory locomotion, but these specializations may have functional consequences for other modes of locomotion. Several frog species use a quadrupedal walking gait as their primary mode of locomotion, characterized by limbs that move in diagonal pairs. Here, we examine how walking species may deviate from the ancestral body plan and how the kinematics of a quadrupedal gait are modified to accommodate the anuran body plan. We use a comparative analysis of limb lengths to test the hypothesis that quadrupedal anurans shift away from the standard anuran condition defined by short forelimbs and long hindlimbs. We also use three‐dimensional high‐speed videography in four anuran species (Kassina senegalensis, Melanophryniscus stelzneri, Phrynomantis bifasciatus, and Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis) to characterize footfall patterns and body posture during quadrupedal locomotion, measuring the angle and timing of joint excursions in the fore‐ and hindlimb during walking to compare kinematics between limbs of disparate lengths. Our results show frogs specialized for walking tend to have less disparity in the lengths of their fore‐ and hindlimbs compared with other anurans. We find quadrupedal walking species use a vertically retracted hindlimb posture to accommodate their relatively longer hindlimbs and minimize body pitch angle during a stride. Overall, this novel quadrupedal gait can be accommodated by changes in limb posture during locomotion and changes in the relative limb lengths of walking specialists.
Siglec-8 on murine eosinophils: A new model for an old target
Authors: Fulkerson Patricia C
Published: May 2018

Discussion on a newly developed tool to investigate the inhibitory effects of human Siglec-8 on effector cells in allergic disease
The strategic impact of information technology deployment, part 4
Authors: White Gareth R. T. , Jones Paul , Beynon‐Davies Paul
Published: May 2018

The growth and rate of change of information technologies demands that investigation of its challenges and the constituents of its successful deployment remain at the forefront of scholarly endeavor. The contexts of technology adoption, in terms of geography, sector and organizational size, require ongoing investigation for typological trends and deficiencies. Future information technology research should seek to further its methodological toolkit in order to develop greater richness of insight. Business leaders of the future will require enhanced understanding of information technologies, and therefore training and education in the subjects will need to be provided accordingly.
Antecedents of continuance intention of using Internet banking in Saudi Arabia: A new integrated model
Authors: Alghamdi Ahmed , Elbeltagi Ibrahim , Elsetouhi Ahmed , Yacine Haddoud Mohamed
Published: May 2018

Along with cognitive perceptions, customers’ psychological traits are key determinants of Internet banking continuance to use. Incorporating psychological traits into technology acceptance models strengthens their explanatory power and boosts our understanding of online behavior. Users’ technology readiness, uncertainty avoidance, and satisfaction are key determinants of Internet banking continuous use. Bank managers should take users’ personal preferences into consideration by offering flexible online systems with diversified designs and choices.
Comparison of organically and conventionally produced Batavia type lettuce stored in modified atmosphere packaging for postharvest quality and nutritional parameters
Authors: Kurubas Mehmet S , Maltas Ahmet S , Dogan Adem , Kaplan Mustafa , Erkan Mustafa
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

The impacts of organic and conventional production systems on postharvest life and quality parameters of Batavia type 'Caipira' lettuce heads (Lactuca sativaL.) were investigated. Harvested lettuce heads grown in two different production systems were stored at 0 °C temperature and 95–98% relative humidity for 20 days in modified atmosphere packaging.

RESULTS

The lowest weight loss, the highest ascorbic acid content and antioxidant activity were obtained from the organic production system (Org‐2). The conventional production system had higher total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and total phenolic contents. During the shelf‐life period at 20 °C, the weight losses of lettuce heads grown conventionally were higher than with the other production system. Conventionally grown heads had higher titratable acidity and total phenolic contents than organically grown heads. The highest titratable acidity andh° values were obtained from the plants grown under conventional and organic production systems (Org‐2), while the highest chroma value and antioxidant activity were detected from the control treatment. The highest ascorbic acid content was detected in the control treatment, but the effects of control, organic (Org‐2) and conventional production systems on ascorbic acid content were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that the organic production system (Org‐2) was the most effective treatment in prolonging postharvest life and protecting the quality of Batavia type 'Caipira' lettuce heads stored in modified atmosphere packaging. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Impact of fungicides and weather on cyclodepsipeptide‐producing Fusarium spp. and beauvericin and enniatin levels in wheat grains
Authors: Decleer Marlies , Landschoot Sofie , De Saeger Sarah , Rajkovic Andrea , Audenaert Kris
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a well‐known disease of wheat caused by a complex of Fusarium species. In this research, an extensive study on the occurrence of the emerging Fusarium cyclodepsipeptide mycotoxins beauvericin and enniatins was conducted in Belgian wheat grains harvested in 2015 and 2016. To assess the link between Fusarium species and their mycotoxin production, ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used to quantify the cyclodepsipeptide mycotoxins, while quantitative polymerase chain reaction was applied to quantify the presence of Fusarium species.

RESULTS

It was shown that enniatins were mainly associated with the presence of F. avenaceum, while beauvericin, despite its low incidence, correlated significantly with F. poae. The application of fungicides resulted in a species shift and in the occurring mycotoxins. Concerning the effect of weather conditions, it was seen that levels of enniatins were positively correlated with the rainfall in May and June, while a negative correlation was observed with rainfall in the first half of July.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides new insights into the occurrence of the emerging cyclodepsipeptide mycotoxins in an agro‐ecosystem in which fungicides are the main control measure against FHB. It seems that beauvericin and enniatin levels are affected by different parameters and behave differently upon application of fungicides. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Genetic diversity analysis of selected Capsicum annuum genotypes based on morphophysiological, yield characteristics and their biochemical properties
Authors: Ridzuan Raihana , Rafii Mohd Y , Mohammad Yusoff Martini , Ismail Siti Izera , Miah Gous , Usman Magaji
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Assessment of the different desirable characters among chili genotypes has expanded the effective selection for crop improvement. Identification of genetically superior parents is important in assortment of the best parents to develop new chili hybrids.

RESULTS

This study was done to assess the hereditary assorted variety of selected genotypes of Capsicum annuum based on their morphophysiological and yield traits in two planting seasons. The biochemical properties, capsaicinoid content (capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin), total phenolics content and antioxidant action determination of unripe and ripe chili pepper fruits were carried out in dry fruits. AVPP9813 and Kulai 907 were observed to have high fruit yields, with 541.39 and 502.64 g per plant, respectively. The most increased genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were shown by the fruit number per plant (49.71% and 66.04%, respectively). High heritability was observed in yield characters viz‐à‐viz fruit weight, length and girth and indicated high genetic advance. Eight groups were obtained from the cluster analysis. For the biochemical analysis, the capsaicinoid content and total phenolic content were high in Chili Bangi 3 at unripe and ripe fruit stages, while for antioxidant activity SDP203 was the highest in ripe dry fruit.

CONCLUSION

Higher GCV and PCV, combined with moderate to high heritability and high hereditary progress, were seen in number of fruit per plant, fruit yield per plant and fruit weight per fruit. These findings are beneficial for chili pepper breeders to select desirable quantitative characters in C. annuum in their breeding program. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
More Than Beam Profiling
Authors: Koglbauer Andreas
Published: May 2018

With its unique design and fabrication possibilities, additive manufacturing (AM) is rapidly gaining relevance in a wide field of scientific and industrial applications. Especially when considering industrial exploitation, a sound knowledge and control of the influential factors dominating the process is crucial, to ensure constant quality. In addition to the properties of the laser spot as the actual tool processing the powder, also the behavior of the deflection unit plays a key role. However, current state‐of‐the‐art diagnostic devices do not fully address these issues.
The Genomic Consultation Service: A clinical service designed to improve patient selection for genome‐wide sequencing in British Columbia
Authors: Elliott Alison M. , du Souich Christèle , Adam Shelin , Dragojlovic Nick , van Karnebeek Clara , Nelson Tanya N. , Lehman Anna ,   The CAUSES Study, Lynd Larry D. , Friedman Jan M.
Published: May 2018

Background

Access to clinical diagnostic genome‐wide sequencing (GWS; exome or whole genome sequencing) is limited in British Columbia. The establishment of a translational research initiative (CAUSES) to provide diagnostic genome‐wide sequencing for 500 children necessitated the development of a genomic consultation service, a clinical service established to provide consultation for physicians considering GWS for their pediatric patients throughout British Columbia. The Genomic Consultation Service provides patient‐specific genomic advice that may include: GWS, multi‐gene panel, single gene test, referral to medical genetics for clinical evaluation, or no genetic testing. Here, we describe and evaluate this service.

Methods

We analyzed referral patterns, patient demographics, clinical indications, and genomic advice provided during the first year of this service. Comparison of outcomes from the first 6 months versus the last 6 months was performed.

Results

A total of 407 referrals (238 males and 169 females [p = .0006]) were processed in the first year. Only children were eligible for referral and average patient age was 8 years. Medical genetics was the most frequent referring discipline, followed by biochemical disease and pediatric neurology, respectively. Most patients (68%) had syndromic intellectual disability. There was a significant difference in the frequency of referrals not appropriate for GWS in the first versus the second 6 months of the service (75/220 vs. 42/187; p = .01) suggesting increasing awareness of testing criteria by referring physicians.

Conclusion

This triage service is utilized throughout the province and appears to be an important factor in the high diagnostic rate (>40%) achieved in our GWS program.
Bilanz 2017: Alles fürs Silikon
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: June 2018

Wacker konzentriert sich auf seine Chemiebereiche. Zudem ist wegen des Verkaufs der Aktienmehrheit am Wafergeschäft und guter Umsatzaussichten eine Sonderdividende zu erwarten.
Kreislaufwirtschaft: Von Anfang an ans Ende denken
Authors: Hiebel Markus , Reh Katharina
Published: June 2018

Das Beispiel Flüssigkristallbildschirme verdeutlicht die Möglichkeiten und Probleme der Kennzeichnung, des Designs und der Wiederverwertung. Indium daraus etwa wird aufgrund fehlender Verwertungsstrukturen und ökonomischer Anreize derzeit nicht zurückgewonnen.
Köln: Wissenschaft an Karneval
Authors: Breugst Martin , Diaz‐Hernandez Dolores , Disch Sabrina , Klußmann Martin , Prechtl Martin , Schlörer Nils , Strub Erik
Published: June 2018

Traditionell fand am Mittwoch vor Karneval am Department für Chemie der Universität Köln die „Carnival Conference Session“ (CCS‐2018) statt, zum sechsten Mal seit 2012. Konzept der CCS ist es, dass auf Einladung der Nachwuchsgruppen des Departments Nachwuchswissenschaftler vortragen, die aus möglichst unterschiedlichen Teilbereichen der Chemie kommen. Insgesamt 70 Studierende und Dozenten fanden sich als Zuhörer ein. Die eintägige Veranstaltung wurde vom Junior Faculty Club der Universität Köln unterstützt.
Indische Forscher unter Druck
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: June 2018

Die Regierung in Indien kürzt das Forschungsbudget und verschiebt Förderschwerpunkte in Richtung Anwendung.
Controversies in the Use of Lipid Injectable Emulsion in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Gervasio Jane Maria
Published: May 2018

Soybean oil–based lipid injectable emulsion (SO‐based ILE) is an 18‐carbon, ω‐6 macronutrient providing a concentrated source of calories, which can be administered in or with parenteral nutrition to patients unable to tolerate or consume adequate enteral nutrition. Beyond the provision of energy, SO‐based ILE provides linoleic and linolenic acid, 2 essential fatty acids necessary for the prevention of essential fatty acid deficiency. However, SO‐based ILE with its high levels of ω‐6 fatty acids, long‐chain triglycerides, phospholipid emulsifiers, and glycerin has been associated with worsening clinical outcomes, including increase of infections, lengthier intensive care and hospital stay, and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Recognizing this, studies have investigated omitting SO‐based ILE in the critically ill patient for the first 7 days to observe if clinical outcomes are improved. Unfortunately, there is extremely limited research, and what is available is controversial. National guidelines have analyzed the studies, and they too are challenged to define a clear, high quality of evidence recommendation. It is important for the healthcare clinician to understand the research around this controversy to make best decisions for their patients.
Capitalize on the opportunities inherent in your region's stranded workers
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: May 2018

California has a stranded worker problem. In that state alone, 2.5 million adults aged 25 to 34 years are considered “stranded workers,” adults who have graduated from high school but have not completed a postsecondary degree. A recent survey published by California Competes also found the following information about California's stranded workers.
New NICE QS: mental health of adults in contact with the CJS
Authors: Llewellyn‐Jones Sian , Sullivan Jamie
Published: May 2018

NICE have issued a new quality standard (QS163, February 2018) for the management of the mental health of adults in contact with the criminal justice system (CJS). The QS focuses solely on the early part of the care pathway for individuals who need to access psychiatric care at the point of, or, after police arrest. This is a significant point of entry for many people with mental health problems, whose help‐seeking behaviour is often disguised.
‘Z’‐hypnotics versus benzodiazepines for the treatment of insomnia
Authors: Agravat Aasha
Published: May 2018

Z‐hypnotics have been perceived to be better than benzodiazepines for the treatment of insomnia for many years. NICE guidance focuses on cost effectiveness and purchase prices as there is limited convincing evidence to distinguish between these agents. This review aims to compare Z‐drugs and benzodiazepines as hypnotic agents in terms of their efficacy, safety, tolerability and abuse potential.
Characterization of novel cell lines derived from a MYC‐driven murine model of lethal metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate
Authors: Markowski Mark C. , Hubbard Gretchen K. , Hicks Jessica L. , Zheng Qizhi , King Alexia , Esopi David , Rege Apurv , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Bieberich Charles J. , De Marzo Angelo M.
Published: May 2018

Background: Loss or mutation of PTEN alleles at 10q23 in combination with 8q24 amplification (encompassing MYC) are common findings in aggressive, human prostate cancer. Our group recently developed a transgenic murine model of prostate cancer involving prostate‐specific Pten deletion and forced expression of MYC under the control of the Hoxb13 promoter. MYC overexpression cooperated with Pten loss to recapitulate lethal, human prostate cancer.

Method: We now report on the generation of two mouse prostate cancer cell lines, BMPC1 and BMPC2, derived from a lymph node, and liver metastasis, respectively.

Results: Both cell lines demonstrate a phenotype consistent with adenocarcinoma and grew under standard tissue culture conditions. Androgen receptor (AR) protein expression is minimal (BMPC1) or absent (BMPC2) consistent with AR loss observed in the BMPC mouse model of invasive adenocarcinoma. Growth in media containing charcoal‐stripped serum resulted in an increase in AR mRNA in BMPC1 cells with no effect on protein expression, unless androgens were added, in which case AR protein was stabilized, and showed nuclear localization. AR expression in BMPC2 cells was not effected by growth media or treatment with androgens. Treatment with an anti‐androgen/castration or androgen supplemented media did not affect in vitro or in vivo growth of either cell line, irrespective of nuclear AR detection.

Discussion: These cell lines are a novel model of androgen‐insensitive prostatic adenocarcinoma driven by MYC over‐expression and Pten loss.
Enantioselectivity in the tissue distribution of perhexiline contributes to different effects on hepatic histology and peripheral neural function in rats
Authors: Licari Giovanni , Milne Robert W. , Somogyi Andrew A. , Sallustio Benedetta C.
Published: May 2018

Perhexiline, a chiral drug, is a potent antiischemic agent whose clinical utility is limited by hepatic and neural toxicities. It inhibits mitochondrial carnitine palmitoyltransferase‐1, however, excessive inhibition predisposes toward tissue steatosis. This pilot study investigated the distribution of the two enantiomers and their toxicological potential. Dark Agouti rats (n = 4 per group) were administered vehicle or 200 mg/kg daily of racemic, (+)− or (−)‐perhexiline maleate orally for 8 weeks. Plasma biochemical liver function tests and Von Frey assessments of peripheral neural function were performed. Hepatic and neuronal histology, including lipid and glycogen content, was assessed using electron microscopy. Concentrations of the perhexiline enantiomers and metabolites were quantified in plasma, liver and heart. Plasma perhexiline concentrations following administration of racemate, (+)− or (‐)‐enantiomer were within the mid‐upper clinical therapeutic range. There was extensive uptake of both enantiomers into liver and heart, with 2.5‐ to 4.5‐fold greater net uptake of (+)‐ compared to (−)‐perhexiline (P < .05) when administered as pure enantiomers, but not when administered as racemate. There was no biochemical or gross histological evidence of hepatotoxicity. However, livers of animals administered (+)‐perhexiline had higher lipid (P < .01) and lower glycogen (P < .05) content, compared to those administered (−)‐perhexiline. Animals administered racemic perhexiline had reduced peripheral neural function (P < .05) compared to controls or animals administered (−)‐perhexiline. For the same plasma concentrations, differences in tissue distribution may contribute to disparities in the effects of (+)‐ and (−)‐perhexiline on hepatic histology and neural function.
Where next for social prescribing in England?
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: May 2018

Social prescribing – the process of primary care professionals referring patients to a range of local non‐clinical services – was the focus of a conference organised by the Westminster Health Forum and held in London in March. Joy Ogden reports on some of the highlights of the conference.
Effects of oligomeric grape seed proanthocyanidins on L‐NAME‐induced hypertension in pregnant mice: Role of oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Zhu Feng‐qin , Hu Juan , Lv Fa‐hui , Cheng Pan , Gao Shan
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins (GSP) on Nω‐Nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester‐induced hypertension in pregnant mice. Fifty Kunming mice were randomized into control, control + GSP, model, and model + GSP. Three weeks later, the artery systolic blood pressure was examined and the related pathological changes were detected. Aorta relaxation function was assessed by aorta ring apparatus. Blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine were measured by an automatic biochemistry analyzer. Colorimetric analysis, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence, and western blot were applied to detect related indicator in serum, cardiac, and kidney tissues. The results showed that GSP treatment for 3 weeks could improve cardiovascular and kidney remodeling indexes and decrease blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine content in serum, as well as could ameliorate oxidative stress status and endothelial dysfunction. Therefore, it is for the first time found that GSP exerts protective effect against Nω‐Nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester‐induced hypertension in pregnant mice, which provided a theoretical basis for potential application in the clinic.