bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic utility of six mutated genes for older patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wang Jinghan , Ma Zhixin , Wang Qinrong , Guo Qi , Huang Jiansong , Yu Wenjuan , Wang Huanping , Huang Jingwen , Washington Shao Yang , Chen Suning , Jin Jie
Published: November 2017

Approximately 50% of older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) do not obtain chromosomal abnormalities as an effective risk‐stratification, and present cytogenetically normal AML (CN‐AML). To develop a reliable prediction model for stratifying the risk of these elderly patients, we conducted a study with a discovery and validation design. As a result, we found the top 6 mutated genes in the discovery cohort of 26 case by the whole exome sequencing, and verified as recurrent mutations in the large cohort of 329 patients by Sanger sequencing. The top 6 genes were NPM1, FLT3‐ITD, DNMT3A, CEBPA double allele, IDH1 and IDH2 mutations, and the frequency of each gene in the combining cohort was 36.8%, 19.8%, 20.1%, 5.8%, 14.9% and 22.5%, respectively. In addition, clinical variables such as age, white blood cell counts, genes of IDH1 and DNMT3A mutations, European LeukemiaNet genotype (NPM1 mutations and lacking FLT3‐ITD or CEBPA double allele mutations) and treatment protocols were independent factors for predicting the probabilities of overall and event‐free survival. The prediction nomograms based on these significant factors showed accurate discrimination. In conclusion, we developed a reliable prediction model for stratifying the risk of elderly patients with CN‐AML.
Identification of a novel fusion gene HMGA2‐EGFR in glioblastoma
Authors: Komuro Akiyoshi , Raja Erna , Iwata Caname , Soda Manabu , Isogaya Kazunobu , Yuki Keiko , Ino Yasushi , Morikawa Masato , Todo Tomoki , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Suzuki Hiromichi , Ranjit Melissa , Natsume Atsushi , Mukasa Akitake , Saito Nobuhito , Okada Hitoshi , Mano Hiroyuki , Miyazono Kohei , Koinuma Daizo
Published: November 2017

Glioblastoma is one of the most malignant forms of cancer, for which no effective targeted therapy has been found. Although The Cancer Genome Atlas has provided a list of fusion genes in glioblastoma, their role in progression of glioblastoma remains largely unknown. To search for novel fusion genes, we obtained RNA‐seq data from TGS‐01 human glioma‐initiating cells, and identified a novel fusion gene (HMGA2‐EGFR), encoding a protein comprising the N‐terminal region of the high‐mobility group AT‐hook protein 2 (HMGA2) fused to the C‐terminal region of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), which retained the transmembrane and kinase domains of the EGFR. This fusion gene product showed transforming potential and a high tumor‐forming capacity in cell culture and in vivo. Mechanistically, HMGA2‐EGFR constitutively induced a higher level of phosphorylated STAT5B than EGFRvIII, an in‐frame exon deletion product of the EGFR gene that is commonly found in primary glioblastoma. Forced expression of HMGA2‐EGFR enhanced orthotopic tumor formation of the U87MG human glioma cell line. Furthermore, the EGFR kinase inhibitor erlotinib blocked sphere formation of TGS‐01 cells in culture and inhibited tumor formation in vivo. These findings suggest that, in addition to gene amplification and in‐frame exon deletion, EGFR signaling can also be activated by gene fusion, suggesting a possible avenue for treatment of glioblastoma.
Posttraumatic growth in a heterogeneous sample of traumatically injured patients 1 year postinjury
Authors: Roden‐Foreman Kenleigh , Robinson Richard , Bennett Monica , Roaten Kimberly , Petrey Laura , Powers Mark B. , Warren Ann Marie
Published: November 2017

Objective

Posttraumatic growth (PTG) describes positive change resulting from challenging life events. The current study examined factors associated with PTG in traumatically injured patients 1 year postinjury.

Method

Participants (N = 221) in this prospective cohort study included adults admitted to a Level I trauma center. Over half the participants (60%) were male, with a mean age of 47. Participants completed baseline measures during hospitalization. PTG was assessed at 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Greater PTG was associated with minority race/ethnicity, lower income, automotive collision, and premorbid psychological disorder other than depression or posttraumatic stress (PTS). These variables are also known to predict PTS in trauma patients. Analysis confirmed that greater PTS at follow‐up was associated with more growth.

Conclusion

Participants with the most growth also experienced the most distress. This finding demonstrates the importance of implementing psychological screening and intervention for trauma patients in the acute care setting to reduce PTS and facilitate growth.
Thermodynamic affinity‐based considerations for the rational selection of biphasic systems for microbial flavor and fragrance production
Authors: Priebe Xenia , Daugulis Andrew J
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Flavor and fragrance (F&F) compounds are increasingly produced by biotechnological instead of chemical means, as this allows them to be labeled natural additives. However, since most F&F compounds exhibit cytotoxicity towards common microbiological production hosts, in situ product removal strategies using two‐phase partitioning bioreactors are desirable, making the rational selection of effective non‐aqueous phases a crucial step. Here, thermodynamic first‐principles methods and the experimental determination of partition coefficients were used to differentiate between sequestering phases with high and low thermodynamic affinity towards 17 important F&F compounds.

RESULTS

The approach was highly successful, enabling identification of outstanding extractants for several F&F compounds. Moreover, it was shown that certain solvent classes (e.g. long‐chained alcohols and a variety of esters) function as efficient sequestering phases across all classes of target F&F compounds, whereas other solvent types (such as alkanes), and the liquid polymer silicone oil exhibit poor partitioning behavior. Finally, the tested absorptive solid polymers generally did not constitute effective sequestering phases for the target compounds, due to high fractions of hard/crystalline segments, however, this suggests that designing polymers with a higher proportion of soft segment could lead to enhanced sorptive capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first in the current literature to systematically analyze sequestering phase choices for important F&F compounds and can serve as a guide for researchers working on biphasic microbial F&F production. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
How field office leaders drive learning and creativity in humanitarian aid: Exploring the role of boundary‐spanning leadership for expatriate and local aid worker collaboration
Authors: Salem Mojtaba , Van Quaquebeke Niels , Besiou Maria
Published: November 2017

Many humanitarian aid workers receive training prior to being dispatched into the field, but they often encounter challenges that require additional learning and creativity. Consequently, aid organizations formally support collaboration among the expatriate and local workers in a field office. At best, those aid workers would not only exploit their joint knowledge but also explore novel ways of managing the challenges at hand. Yet differences between expatriate and local groups (e.g., in ethnicity, religion, education, and salary) often thwart intergroup collaboration in field offices and, by extension, any joint learning or creativity. In response to this issue, we study the role of field office leaders—specifically, how their boundary‐spanning behavior may inspire collaboration between the two groups and therefore facilitate joint learning and creativity. We propose that a leader's in‐group prototypicality additionally catalyzes this process—that is, a leader's behavior has more impact if s/he is seen as representing his/her group. We tested and found support for our hypothesized moderated mediation model in a field sample of 137 aid workers from 59 humanitarian organizations. Thus, our study generally highlights the pivotal role that field office leaders play for crucial outcomes in humanitarian aid operations. Furthermore, we offer concrete steps for field office leaders who want to inspire better collaboration between the expatriate and local aid workers they lead.
The climate of the European region during the 20th and 21st centuries according to Feddema
Authors: Skarbit Nóra , Ács Ferenc , Breuer Hajnalka
Published: November 2017

The climate of the European region during 20th and 21st centuries in terms of Feddema's (2005) annual and seasonal climate characteristics is analysed. Observed data for the 20th century are taken from the CRU TS 1.2 data set. The projected data for the 21st century are obtained using simulation results of nine regional climate models run in the scope of the ENSEMBLES project. In the analysis, the European region is arbitrarily divided into three sub‐regions: the northern (72°–55°N), middle (55°–42°N) and southern (42°–35°N) zones. We focused on the analysis of the relationships between Feddema's climatic characteristics and the main geographical constraints (latitude, longitude, relief and land‐locked waterbodies). It is shown that Feddema's climatic maps agree well with the expected effects of the main geographical controls. Climate type/geographical control dependence is very strong in the upland coastal regions of the Atlantic Ocean, that is, in the Norwegian Alps, the Scottish Highlands and the Galician Massif Mountains. A characteristic seasonal‐type change can be observed in these regions: The seasonality of P changes through the seasonality of both P and T into the seasonality of T. This behaviour is registered by all model simulations in both the 20th and 21st centuries. The Atlantic Ocean–relief–longitude interplay effect on Feddema's climate types can be observed in all three zones. The uplands in Europe determine climate on the local scale. This upland effect is stronger when it is combined with the effect of extensive land‐locked water bodies. This relationship is obtained by all model simulations in both the 20th and 21st centuries. Lastly, the area heterogeneity of the European region's climate is well reproduced. The observations and the modelling tools show that the climate became and will become warmer and dryer during the course of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Ion inducing surface interaction for improved SERS detection of melamine in fertilizer and soil
Authors: Guo Xiaoyu , Wu Yiping , Ying Ye , Wen Ying , Wang Feng , Ke Qinfei , Yang Haifeng
Published: November 2017

Ultra‐sensitive platform for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering detecting trace melamine is constructed by adding Fe3+ ions. In this work, first, inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) micelle capped silver nanoparticles (IP6@AgNPs) is synthesized. Taking advantage of the strong interaction of Fe3+ and IP6 micelle, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering activity of IP6@AgNPs could be improved by formation of more “hot spots” induced by rational addition of due amount Fe3+. Second, IP6@AgNPs binding Fe3+ could offer the anchoring sites to capture melamine molecules due to containing NH group and/or N atom. Such Fe3+ acted as dual functions is beneficial to elevating sensitivity of determining trace melamine in water, fertilizer, and soil samples with the limits of detection about 1.26, 1.26, and 63.0 ppb, respectively. This proposed assay based on a portable Raman system could monitor real samples without complicated pretreatment, which is perspective to inspect trace melamine on‐field in water and soil environment.
Resonant Raman scattering and ESR study of ET salts with rhenium‐containing anions
Authors: Barszcz Bolesław , Bednarski Waldemar , Starodub Vladimir A. , Golichenko Alexander A. , Kravchenko Andrey V. , Shtemenko Alexander V.
Published: November 2017

Two charge‐transfer salts of ET (bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene or BEDT‐TTF) molecule and the anions containing multiple Re–Re bond have been investigated using Raman scattering and electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopies. Q‐band ESR study allowed to record well‐split ESR spectra and determine spectroscopic splitting coefficients of ET+• radicals. The ESR data show the existence of two types of ET molecules in ET2[Re2Cl8] and one type in ET[Re2Br6CH3COO]⋅0.5(C2H3Cl3) that is consistent with the structural data. Additionally, the antiferromagnetic coupling within the ET dimers at low temperature was detected. The charge +1 e per ET molecule in both salts have been determined from the position of the vibrational modes ν2 and ν3 (Ag) of the ET molecule and compared with values obtained from the bond lengths analysis. The excitation line 633 nm was used to obtain the resonant Raman spectra of the salts. The enhanced anion fundamental vibrations and overtones show typical resonant behaviour. Moreover, the position of the band related to the Re–Re stretching vibration confirm the quadruple nature of the metal–metal bonds in the anions.
Simple and accurate method for determining dissolved inorganic carbon in environmental water by reaction headspace gas chromatography
Authors: Xie Wei‐Qi , Gong Yi‐Xian , Yu Kong‐Xian
Published: November 2017

We investigate a simple and accurate method for quantitatively analyzing dissolved inorganic carbon in environmental water by reaction headspace gas chromatography. The neutralization reaction between the inorganic carbon species (i.e. bicarbonate ions and carbonate ions) in environmental water and hydrochloric acid is carried out in a sealed headspace vial, and the carbon dioxide formed from the neutralization reaction, the self‐decomposition of carbonic acid, and dissolved carbon dioxide in environmental water is then analyzed by headspace gas chromatography. The data show that the headspace gas chromatography method has good precision (relative standard deviation ≤ 1.63%) and accuracy (relative differences ≤ 5.81% compared with the coulometric titration technique). The headspace gas chromatography method is simple, reliable, and can be well applied in the dissolved inorganic carbon detection in environmental water.
Assessing the economic values of World Heritage Sites and the effects of perceived authenticity on their values
Authors: Kim Hyounggon , Oh Chi‐Ok , Lee Sangkwon , Lee Soojin
Published: November 2017

Authenticity of tourism sites is expected to positively affect their economic values because tourists preferably visit sites perceived as more authentic. This study aims to examine the extent to which consumers' perceived authenticity affects economic values of the two World Heritage Sites in Korea. This study treats perceived authenticity as the negotiated concept between the essentialist and constructivist discourses. Study results show that the high authenticity group evaluated the economic benefits of heritage sites higher than the low authenticity group. The results pertain to managerial and theoretical implications that focus on the importance of authentication process in heritage tourism sites.
The fractional laser‐induced coagulation zone characterized over time by laser scanning confocal microscopy—A proof of concept study
Authors: Banzhaf Christina A. , Lin Lynlee L. , Dang Nhung , Freeman Michael , Haedersdal Merete , Prow Tarl W.
Published: November 2017

Background

Ablative fractional laser (AFXL) is an acknowledged technique to increase uptake of topical agents in skin. Micro thermal ablation zones (MAZs) consist of ablated vertical channels surrounded by a coagulation zone (CZ). Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) images individual MAZs at 733 nm (reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM)). Further, LSCM can image sodium fluorescein (NaF) fluorescence with 488 nm excitation (fluorescence confocal microcopy (FCM)), a small hydrophilic test molecule (370 MW, log P ‐1.52), which may simulate uptake, bio‐distribution and kinetics of small hydrophilic drugs.

Objectives

To explore LSCM for combined investigations of CZ thickness and uptake, bio‐distribution and kinetics of NaF in AFXL‐exposed skin.

Study Designs/Methods and materials

Excised human abdominal skin samples were exposed to AFXL (15 mJ/microbeam, 2% density) and NaF gel (1000 μg/ml, 10 μl/cm2) in six repetitions, including untreated control samples. CZ thickness and spatiotemporal fluorescence intensities (FI) were quantified up to four hours after NaF application by RCM and FCM. Test sites were scanned to a depth of 200 μm, quantifying thickness of skin compartments (stratum corneum, epidermis, upper dermis), individual CZ thicknesses and FI in CZ and surrounding skin.

Results

RCM images established skin morphology to a depth of 200 μm. The CZ thickness measurements were feasible to a depth of 50 μm, and remained unchanged over time at 50 μm (P > 0.5). FI were detected to a depth of 160 μm and remained constant in CZ up to four hours after NaF application (15 minutes: 79 AU (73–92 AU), 60 minutes: 72 AU (58–82 AU), four hours: 78 AU (71–90 AU), P > 0.1). In surrounding skin, FI increased significantly over time, but remained lower than FI in CZ (15 minutes: 21 AU (17–22 AU), 60 minutes: 21 AU (19–26 AU), four hours: 42 (31– 48 AU), P = 0.03). AFXL‐processed skin generated higher FI compared to non‐laser processed skin in epidermis and upper dermis at 60 minutes and four hours (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

By LSCM, assessment of the AFXL‐induced CZ thickness was feasible to a depth of 50 μm, and assessment of FI from a small hydrophilic test molecule, NaF in CZ and surrounding skin feasible to a depth of 160 μm. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:70–77, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of cooling processes on microstructure and susceptibility of hydrogen‐induced cracking of X80 pipeline steel
Authors: Li Longfei , Song Bo , Cheng Jin , Yang Yuhou , Liu Zhen
Published: November 2017

The effects of three different kinds of cooling processes on the properties of the microstructure for hydrogen‐induced cracking (HIC) resistance and hydrogen atom diffusion on X80 pipeline steel have been investigated in the laboratory. The results show that Steel F after furnace cooling contains coarse polygonal ferrite (PF), quasi‐polygonal ferrite (QF), and a small amount of granular bainite (GB). Steel A after air cooling contains finer QF and GB. Steel W after water cooling quenching treatment contains a large amount of GB, lath bainite (LB), and a small amount of martensite (M) and ferrite. In addition, the results of hydrogen permeation test show that hydrogen atoms diffuse the fastest in Steel W with a finer microstructure and grains, and the content of dissolved hydrogen atoms is lowest in Steel F. After soaking corrosion tests, Steel A has the best HIC resistance properties, due to the role of more high‐angle grain boundaries (HABs) and fewer grain boundaries with the <100> orientation.
Effects of the Consumption of Milk Biofortified with Selenium, Vitamin E, and Different Fatty Acid Profile on Immune Response in the Elderly
Authors: Pfrimer Karina , Ferriolli Eduardo , Takeuchi Paula Lumy , Salles Márcia SV , Saran‐Netto Arlindo , Zanetti Marcus A , Roma‐Junior Luiz C , Braga Camila Bitu Moreno , Domenici Fernanda A , Valim Yara ML , Paschoalato Adriana BP , Marchi Larissa F , Azzolini Ana ECS , Donadi Eduardo A , Martinez Edson , Vannucchi Helio
Published: November 2017

Scope

Nutrition is a major contributing factor for immunocompetence. The aim was to assess the immune status of older people after consuming milk produced by lactating cows fed with one of the following diets: control diet (C), C + vitamin E + selenium (C + A), C + sunflower oil (C + O), and C + sunflower oil + vitamin E + selenium (A + O).

Methods and results

Sixty elderly people received one of these biofortified milks for 12 weeks. Immune response was assessed by measurement of the expression of COX‐1, COX‐2, MCP‐1, PPAR (δ, α, and β/δ) genes, neutrophil production of oxygen reactive species induced by immune complexes, neutrophil phagocytosis and lytic activity of the alternative pathway of the complement system, and cytokine levels. Variables were assessed before and after treatment. Our findings showed stability of some inflammatory mediators (complement activity and neutrophils burst) in treatment groups, except complement activity in C + A, and an increase of these markers in C, especially reactive oxygen species production and phagocytic activity. TNF‐α was significantly increased in all groups. In C + A, IL‐4 and IL‐2 increased after treatment, and in the group that received the milk produced by cows fed with “O” diet, CCL20 and IL‐27 increased.

Conclusion

Overall, as compared to C, milk biofortification was associated with stabilization of the activity of alternative complement pathway and the neutrophils burst, and modulated different cytokines levels.
Estimating C4 plant consumption in Bronze Age Northeastern Italy through stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in bone collagen
Authors: Tafuri M.A. , Rottoli M. , Cupitò M. , Pulcini M.L. , Tasca G. , Carrara N. , Bonfanti F. , Salzani L. , Canci A.
Published: November 2017

The application of biomolecular techniques for the study of food practices in the Italian Bronze Age has revealed an interesting complexity. This is particularly true for the Po plain, in northern Italy, where the use of “alternative” grains (i.e., the millets) has been assessed isotopically through the measurement of stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios in human and animal bone collagen at the site of Olmo di Nogara (Verona). This work provides new isotopic data from 12 Early, Middle, and Late Bronze Age sites from western Veneto and Friuli. Data obtained contribute to the understanding of mode and tempo of the spread of new crops in northeastern Italy, which appears to be a hotspot for the study of Bronze Age farming economies in Europe. We have successfully analyzed 146 specimens to find that δ13C values are higher, in a way that we interpret as indicative of C4 plant consumption. Four of the sites analyzed, with a specific chronological indication, show this evidence. We explain this phenomenon as the result of a discontinuous spread of new crops in northeastern Italy at a very specific moment of the Bronze Age. The data presented might call for a reconsideration of food production and consumption among Bronze Age groups of southern Europe.
Adaptive‐dynamic‐programming‐based fuzzy control for triangular structure nonlinear uncertain systems with unknown time delay
Authors: Sui Shuai , Tong Shaocheng , Sun Kangkang
Published: November 2017

This paper develops a novel fuzzy adaptive backstepping dynamic surface control scheme for a class of strict‐feedback nonlinear systems with unknown time delay based on adaptive dynamic programming. The whole control scheme is composed of 2 parts, ie, feedforward control and feedback optimal control. Fuzzy logic systems are used to identify nonlinear systems. The control design method, which combined the backstepping design technique and the dynamic surface control approach, is applied to convert triangular structure systems to affine nonlinear systems; it not only can solve the problem of “explosion of complexity” but also can avoid the appearance of unknown terms. The closed‐loop system is guaranteed to be uniformly ultimately bounded based on the Lyapunov and optimal control theory, and the system output can track the desired reference signal in an optimal manner. The simulation results of numerical examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Synthesis of NIPU by the carbonation of canola oil using highly efficient 5,10,15‐tris(pentafluorophenyl)corrolato‐manganese(III) complex as novel catalyst
Authors: Malik Manjeet , Kaur Raminder
Published: November 2017

For the green synthesis of polyurethane (PU), non‐isocyanate routes are worthy alternatives. In the present work, we have explored 5,10,15‐tris(pentafluorophenyl)corrolato‐manganese(III) complex as novel catalyst for coupling reaction between epoxidized canola oil and CO2 (gaseous) to introduce cyclic carbonate moieties in the oil and further used it to obtain non‐isocyanate PU, generally abbreviated as NIPU, by curing with different diamines. The results obtained indicated a 1/4th of the reduction in reaction time with the use of 5,10,15‐tris(pentafluorophenyl)corrolato‐manganese(III) complex as catalyst as compared to the previously reported literature data. As per the reported studies, the corrole metal complex has not been used for this reaction earlier. The structure of products and intermediates were confirmed by using different characterization techniques like 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopies. The thermal and mechanical behavior of final product was analyzed by TGA and universal testing machine, respectively. The non‐isocyanate PU obtained showed a good thermal stability up to 200°C and a tensile strength of up to 8 MPa. The effect of structure of diamines on the properties of non‐isocyanate PU was also extensively studied.
Flax fibers reinforced polycaprolactone modified by triallyl isocyanurate and electron radiation
Authors: Rytlewski Piotr , Stepczyńska Magdalena , Moraczewski Krzysztof , Malinowski Rafał , Karasiewicz Tomasz , Sikorska Wanda , Żenkiewicz Marian
Published: November 2017

Short flax fibers reinforced polycaprolactone (PCL) was crosslinked using electron irradiation and triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC) as coupling agent to improve mechanical properties. Effects of radiation dose and TAIC content on mechanical properties of PCL composites were studied using tensile, impact strength, and dynamic mechanical testing. Selected samples were examined using gel fraction analysis, thermogravimetry, and differential scanning calorimetry to define structural changes induced by electron irradiation at various content of TAIC. Biocomposites were manufactured by conventional extrusion and injection molding processing. Environmental stability of the biocomposites was evaluated for samples subjected to industrial composting. It was found that electron irradiation along with application of TAIC can improve both mechanical properties and environmental stability of flax fibers‐reinforced PCL. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:481–488, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Continuous vancomycin in a pediatric cystic fibrosis patient
Authors: McKinzie Cameron J. , Esther Charles R. , Vece Timothy J.
Published: November 2017

Continuous vancomycin has been previously reported to maximize antimicrobial activity while avoiding toxicities associated with dose escalation, but the efficacy of this dosing strategy has not been reported. This case report describes the successful use of continuous vancomycin, including improvement in lung function and avoidance of nephrotoxicity, demonstrated in a pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) patient with MRSA.
Effect of small vent area on a small‐scale methane‐air explosion
Authors: Zhang Kai , Wang Zhirong , Wang Supan , Jiang Juncheng
Published: November 2017

A series of small‐scale experiments on vented methane‐air explosions are carried out in a 22 L spherical vented vessel with small vent areas. The experiment is conducted under both constrained and unconstrained circumstances where the dimensionless vent ratios are different. A discussion of the various characteristics of the explosion is presented. Under the constrained circumstances, reduced dimensionless vent ratios can lead to an increase in the maximum explosion venting pressure and in the maximum explosion rising rate, called nonbalanced vented explosions. However, when the dimensionless vent ratios are higher than a certain value, the maximum explosion venting pressure and maximum explosion rising rate do not change, which is called as balanced vented explosions. When the dimensionless vent ratios are between 0.009 and 0.025, it has a remarkable effect. When the dimensionless vent ratio is between 0.00169 and 0.009, it doesn't affect the explosion pressure. However, a very high explosion venting pressure appears. Moreover, the pressure is close to the maximum explosion pressure in a closed vessel. When the dimensionless vent ratios are lower than 0.00169, the maximum explosion venting pressure is higher than the maximum explosion pressure in a confined space. Nevertheless, under the unconstrained circumstances, the maximum explosion venting pressure is always lower than the maximum enclosed explosion pressure despite of different dimensionless vent ratios. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 37: 294–299, 2018
Antimicrobial activity of copaiba oil (Copaifera ssp.) on oral pathogens: Systematic review
Authors: Diefenbach Ana Lúcia , Muniz Francisco Wilker Mustafa Gomes , Oballe Harry Juan Rivera , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker
Published: November 2017

Copaifera ssp. produces an oil‐resin that presents antiinflammatory, antitumor, antiseptic, germicidal, antifungal, and antibacterial activity. This systematic review aimed to analyze the antimicrobial action of Copaiba oil against oral pathogens, when compared to that of control substances. A search on Medline/PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were performed up to March 2017. To be included, the studies needed to perform any antimicrobial activity essay, using copaiba oil and a control substance. The antimicrobial effect of each substance, in each study, was extracted. Eleven studies were included, and several copaiba species were used. All studies showed that copaiba oil, regardless of its species, presented a bactericidal and/or bacteriostatic effect in in vitro analyzes. Only one study showed that the antimicrobial effect of the Copaifera officinalis was similar to the one found in chlorhexidine. A higher risk of bias was detected in most of the included studies. The studies demonstrated that the antimicrobial activity of copaiba oil, in most cases, is lower than chlorhexidine, which is considered the gold standard. However, there is great potential against oral bacteria. Further high quality studies are warranted in order to assess the efficacy of copaiba oil on oral pathogens.
Equation of state of hexagonal hydroxylapatite (P63) as obtained from density functional theory simulations
Authors: Ulian Gianfranco , Valdrè Giovanni
Published: November 2017

Hydroxylapatite is an important calcium phosphate phase whose knowledge is useful in different fields, for instance in bone biology, development of biomaterials and even cultural heritage. In this work, the equation of state of this mineral was calculated by using the quasi‐harmonic approximation, also including for the first time the temperature effect. In athermal conditions (0 K), we found that the pressure dependence of the hydroxylapatite unit cell volume is well described by a third‐order Birch–Murnaghan formulation, with parameters K0 = 115.9(1), K' = 4.47(6), and V0 = 524.323(27). The inclusion of temperature led to a lower bulk modulus, for example, KT0 = 109.55 GPa at 300 K. The thermal expansion coefficient between 0 and 1000 K was also reported. The results are in good agreement with the few available experimental data reported in literature and further extend the knowledge of the mechanical and thermal behavior of this important mineral.
Dye degradation studies of Mo‐doped TiO2 thin films developed by reactive sputtering
Authors: Sreedhar M. , Brijitta J. , Reddy I. Neelakanta , Cho Migyung , Shim Jaesool , Bera Parthasarathi , Joshi Bhavana N. , Yoon Sam S.
Published: November 2017

TiO2 thin films with various Mo concentrations have been deposited on glass and n‐type silicon (100) substrates by this radio‐frequency (RF) reactive magnetron sputtering at 400°C substrate temperature. The crystal structure, surface morphology, composition, and elemental oxidation states of the films have been analyzed by using X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. Ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy has been used to investigate the degradation, transmittance, and absorption properties of doped and undoped TiO2 films. The photocatalytic degradation activity of the films was evaluated by using methylene blue under a light intensity of 100 mW cm−2. The X‐ray diffraction patterns show the presence of anatase phase of TiO2 in the developed films. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies have confirmed that Mo is present only as Mo6+ ions in all films. The Mo/TiO2 band gap decreases from ~3.3 to 3.1 eV with increasing Mo dopant concentrations. Dye degradation of ~60% is observed in Mo/TiO2 samples, which is much higher than that of pure TiO2.
Ultrathin films of Ge on the Si(100)2 × 1 surface
Authors: Kamaratos M. , Sotiropoulos A.K. , Vlachos D.
Published: November 2017

The Ge/Si(100)2 × 1 interface was investigated by means of Auger electron spectroscopy, low‐energy electron diffraction, thermal desorption spectroscopy, and work function measurements, in the regime of a few monolayers. The results show that growth of Ge at room temperature forms a thermally stable amorphous interface without significant intermixing and interdiffusion into the substrate, for annealing up to ~1100 K. Therefore, the Ge‐Si interaction most likely takes place at the outmost silicon atomic plane. The charge transfer between Ge and Si seems to be negligible, indicating a rather covalent bonding. Regarding the Ge overlayer morphology, the growth mode depends on the substrate temperature during deposition, in accordance with the literature. Stronger annealing of the germanium covered substrate (>1100 K) causes desorption of not only Ge adatoms, but also SiGe and Ge2 species. This is probably due to a thermal Ge‐Si interdiffusion. In that case, deeper silicon planes participate in the Ge‐Si interaction. Above 1200 K, a new Ge superstructure (4 × 4)R45o was observed. Based on that symmetry, an atomic model is proposed, where Ge adatom pairs interact with free silicon dangling bonds.
Impact of individual behaviour change on the spread of emerging infectious diseases
Authors: Yan Q.L. , Tang S.Y. , Xiao Y.N.
Published: November 2017

Human behaviour plays an important role in the spread of emerging infectious diseases, and understanding the influence of behaviour changes on epidemics can be key to improving control efforts. However, how the dynamics of individual behaviour changes affects the development of emerging infectious disease is a key public health issue. To develop different formula for individual behaviour change and introduce how to embed it into a dynamic model of infectious diseases, we choose A/H1N1 and Ebola as typical examples, combined with the epidemic reported cases and media related news reports. Thus, the logistic model with the health belief model is used to determine behaviour decisions through the health belief model constructs. Furthermore, we propose 4 candidate infectious disease models without and with individual behaviour change and use approximate Bayesian computation based on sequential Monte Carlo method for model selection. The main results indicate that the classical compartment model without behaviour change and the model with average rate of behaviour change depicted by an exponential function could fit the observed data best. The results provide a new way on how to choose an infectious disease model to predict the disease prevalence trend or to evaluate the influence of intervention measures on disease control. However, sensitivity analyses indicate that the accumulated number of hospital notifications and deaths could be largely reduced as the rate of behaviour change increases. Therefore, in terms of mitigating emerging infectious diseases, both media publicity focused on how to guide people's behaviour change and positive responses of individuals are critical.
Norcantharidin induce apoptosis in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma through caspase and mitochondrial pathway
Authors: Chen Andy Wei‐Ge , Tseng Yen‐Shuo , Lin Chia‐Chieh , Hsi Yi‐Ting , Lo Yu‐Sheng , Chuang Yi‐Ching , Lin Shu‐Hui , Yu Chia‐Yun , Hsieh Ming‐Ju , Chen Mu‐Kuan
Published: November 2017

While Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is uncommon in western countries, it is endemic in Southeast Asia and Southern China. Previous study of norcantharidin (NCTD), isolated from blister beetles, has proved its anticancer effect on various tumors. However, the effect of NCTD in NPC has never been studied. The purpose of this study is to inspect the suppression activity of NCTD on NPC, along with the underlying mechanism. NPC cell line NPC‐BM was treated with NCTD. NCTD remarkably inhibited proliferation and induce apoptosis in NPC‐BM cell. Activation of caspase‐3, −8, −9 was observed through western blotting. The expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐XL was significantly reduced, but expression of proapoptotic protein Bak was increased after treatment of NCTD. The cytotoxic effect of NCTD on NPC‐BM cell is mainly due to apoptosis, mediated by caspase and mitochondrial pathway. These results suggested that NCTD could be a potential anticancer agent for NPC.
Viral internal ribosomal entry sites: four classes for one goal
Authors: Mailliot Justine , Martin Franck
Published: November 2017

To ensure efficient propagation, viruses need to rapidly produce viral proteins after cell entrance. Since viral genomes do not encode any components of the protein biosynthesis machinery, viral proteins must be produced by the host cell. To hi‐jack the host cellular translation, viruses use a great variety of distinct strategies. Many single‐stranded positive‐sensed RNA viruses contain so‐called internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs). IRESs are structural RNA motifs that have evolved to specific folds that recruit the host ribosomes on the viral coding sequences in order to synthesize viral proteins. In host canonical translation, recruitment of the translation machinery components is essentially guided by the 5′ cap (m7G) of mRNA. In contrast, IRESs are able to promote efficient ribosome assembly internally and in cap‐independent manner. IRESs have been categorized into four classes, based on their length, nucleotide sequence, secondary and tertiary structures, as well as their mode of action. Classes I and II require the assistance of cellular auxiliary factors, the eukaryotic intiation factors (eIF), for efficient ribosome assembly. Class III IRESs require only a subset of eIFs whereas Class IV, which are the more compact, can promote translation without any eIFs. Extensive functional and structural investigations of IRESs over the past decades have allowed a better understanding of their mode of action for viral translation. Because viral translation has a pivotal role in the infectious program, IRESs are therefore attractive targets for therapeutic purposes. WIREs RNA 2018, 9:e1458. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1458

This article is categorized under:

Translation > Ribosome Structure/Function

Translation > Translation Mechanisms

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA–Protein Complexes
In pursuit of peak animal welfare; the need to prioritize the meaningful over the measurable
Authors: Veasey Jake S.
Published: November 2017

Despite the diversity of animal welfare definitions, most recognise the centrality of the feelings of animals which are currently impossible to measure directly. As a result, animal welfare assessment is heavily reliant upon the indirect measurement of factors that either affect what animals feel, or are effected by how they feel. Physiological and health orientated measures have emerged as popular metrics for assessing welfare because they are quantifiable, can effect and be affected by how animals feel and have merits regardless of their relationship to the feelings of animals. However, their popularity in animal welfare assessment has led to them having a disproportionate influence on animal management to the detriment of animal welfare in numerous instances. Here, the case is made that a tension exists between management that prioritizes aspects of care reflecting popular animal welfare metrics such as those relating to physical health, and management that emphasizes psychological wellbeing. By re‐examining the relative merits of physical and psychological priorities in animal management, an alternate animal welfare paradigm emerges less tied to traditional welfare metrics. This paradigm theorizes about the possibility for an optimal animal welfare state to exist where managed animal populations provided essential psychological outlets but protected from key physical stressors routinely experienced in the wild, might experience higher levels of welfare than wild populations would routinely experience. The proposition that optimal animal welfare could theoretically be achieved in well managed and well designed captive environments challenges a widely held ethical perspective that captivity is inherently bad for animal welfare.
Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation Failure in a Large Cohort of Hemodialysis Patients in the Netherlands
Authors: Voorzaat Bram M. , van der Bogt Koen E. A. , Janmaat Cynthia J. , van Schaik Jan , Dekker Friedo W. , Rotmans Joris I. ,   Dutch Vascular Access Study Group, Voorzaat Bram M. , van der Bogt Koen E. A. , Janmaat Cynthia J. , van Schaik Jan , Dekker Friedo W. , Rotmans Joris I. , Vogt Liffert , Huisman Laurens , Gabreëls Bas A Th. F. , Boereboom Frans T. J. , van der Meer Irene M. , van Eps Randolph G. S. , Eefting Daniël , Weijmer Marcel C. , van Nieuwenhuizen Roos C. , Abrahams Alferso , Toorop Raechel J.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Radiocephalic arteriovenous fistulas (RCAVF) are the preferred vascular access (VA) for hemodialysis (HD). Cohort studies from North America revealed that nonmaturation is a significant disadvantage of RCAVFs compared to other VAs. DESIGN: This present retrospective study describes the incidence of nonmaturation of AVFs and functional failure of arteriovenous grafts (AVG) in a multicentre cohort in the Netherlands and attempts to create a prediction model for nonmaturation of RCAVFs. Furthermore, the efficacy of interventions to promote maturation as well as the variability between hemodialysis centers was evaluated.

Materials

Medical records from 8 hospitals from 1997 to 2016 were retrospectively evaluated for VA type, maturation/primary success and demographics and comorbidities.

Methods

A prediction model was created for RCAVF nonmaturation using multivariate logistic regression analysis, selecting significant predictors using backward selection. Discrimination and calibration of the model were assessed.

Results

1383 AVFs and 273 AVGs were included in 1221 patients. Overall nonmaturation was 24% for RCAVFs, and 11% for upper arm AVFs. The functional failure rate for AVGs was 6%. The nonmaturation rate of contralateral RCAVFs after failure of an RCAVF was 22%. Procedures to improve RCAVF maturation were successful in 98/142 cases (69%). Predictors for nonmaturation were female gender, peripheral vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease and a cephalic vein diameter <2.5 mm, but the prediction model lacked sensitivity and specificity predicting individual RCAVF nonmaturation (C‐statistic 0.629).

Conclusion

Nonmaturation rates are highest for RCAVFs, but nonmaturation could not be predicted with demographic parameters.
Historical Institutionalism and Judicial Decision-Making
Authors: Bleich Erik
Published: November 2017

This article integrates insights from different veins of historical institutionalism to offer an analytical framework that specifies how ideas, institutions, and actors account for key aspects of judicial decision-making, including change over time. To the extent that ideas are widely distributed, highly salient, and stable among actors in the judicial field, they can affect patterns of rulings in a particular issue area. The distribution, salience, and stability of norms, however, may change over time for reasons embedded in the institutional structures themselves. Existing policies, laws, or treaties create the potential for new actors to enter the judicial field through processes that theorists of institutional change have identified as intercurrence, displacement, conversion, layering, and drift. New actors can shift the relative salience of ideas already rooted in the judicial field. This ideational salience amplification can alter patterns of judicial decision-making without the fundamental and often costly battles involved in wholesale paradigm change. French high court hate speech decisions provide the context for the development of this framework and serve to illustrate the dynamic. The author uses evidence from an original dataset of every ruling by the French Court of Cassation regarding racist hate speech from 1972 through 2012 to explain the varying propensity of the high court to restrict speech that targets majorities compared to minorities.
Developing the behavioural constellation of deprivation: Relationships, emotions, and not quite being in the present
Authors: Białek Arkadiusz , Reddy Vasudevi
Published: November 2017

Although it is a welcome and timely idea, the behavioural constellation of deprivation (BCD) needs to explain how the development of personal control, trust, and perception of future risk is mediated through relationships with parents. Further, prioritising the present over the future may not be the essence of this constellation; perhapsnotquite being, either in the presentorin the future, is a better depiction.
Tuning in to art: A predictive processing account of negative emotion in art
Authors: Van de Cruys Sander , Chamberlain Rebecca , Wagemans Johan
Published: November 2017

We use the example of art-derived solace to discuss a broader mechanism by which negative affect is instrumental in creating positive appreciation of artworks. Based on the theory of predictive processing, we argue that increasing attunement or reduction of prediction errors, which implies increasing validation of the agents (models), is experienced as positive, even if the artwork's content is negative.
Kant After Marx
Authors: Love S. M.
Published: November 2017

While there are many points of opposition between the political philosophies of Marx and Kant, the two can greatly benefit from one another in various ways. Bringing the ideas of Marx and Kant together offers a promising way forward for each view. Most significantly, a powerful critique of capitalism can be developed from their combined thought: Kant’s political philosophy offers a robust idea of freedom to ground this critique, while Marx provides the nuanced understanding of social and political power structures under capitalism that allows this idea of freedom to be properly applied.
Broad modulus range nanomechanical mapping by magnetic-drive soft probes
Authors: Meng Xianghe , Zhang Hao , Song Jianmin , Fan Xinjian , Sun Lining , Xie Hui
Published: November 2017

Stiffness matching between the probe and deformed portion of the sample in piezo-drive peak force modulation atomic force microscopy (AFM) limits the modulus measurement range of single probes. Here we develop a magnetic drive peak force modulation AFM to broaden the dynamic range of the probe with direct cantilever excitation. This approach not only successfully drives the softest commercial probe (6 pN nm−1) for mapping extremely soft samples in liquid but also provides an indentation force of hundreds of nanonewtons for stiff samples with a soft probe. Features of direct measurements of the indentation force and depth can unify the elastic modulus range up to four orders of magnitude, from 1 kPa to 10 MPa (in liquid) and 1 MPa to 20 GPa (in air or liquid) using a single probe. This approach can be particularly useful for analysing heterogeneous samples with large elastic modulus variations in multi-environments.