bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparisons of Self‐Reported and Measured Height and Weight, BMI, and Obesity Prevalence from National Surveys: 1999‐2016
Authors: Flegal Katherine M. , Ogden Cynthia L. , Fryar Cheryl , Afful Joseph , Klein Richard , Huang David T.
Published: September 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare national estimates of self‐reported and measured height and weight, BMI, and obesity prevalence among adults from US surveys.

Methods

Self‐reported height and weight data came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the National Health Interview Survey, and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for the years 1999 to 2016. Measured height and weight data were available from NHANES. BMI was calculated from height and weight; obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 30.

Results

In all three surveys, mean self‐reported height was higher than mean measured height in NHANES for both men and women. Mean BMI from self‐reported data was lower than mean BMI from measured data across all surveys. For women, mean self‐reported weight, BMI, and obesity prevalence in the National Health Interview Survey and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were lower than self‐report in NHANES. The distribution of BMI was narrower for self‐reported than for measured data, leading to lower estimates of obesity prevalence.

Conclusions

Self‐reported height, weight, BMI, and obesity prevalence were not identical across the three surveys, particularly for women. Patterns of misreporting of height and weight and their effects on BMI and obesity prevalence are complex.
Pulmonary giant chondromatous hamartoma with multifocal evolution in an infant
Authors: Bailly Charlotte , Verschuur Arnauld , Bosdure Emmanuelle , Dabadie Alexia , Petit Philippe , Maues de Paula Andre , Coulomb‐L'hermine Aurore , Longy Michel , André Nicolas
Published: September 2019

Hamartoma is the most common benign pulmonary tumor in adults, but is rarely described in the pediatric population. Giant chondromatous and progressive forms are even rarer. We report the novel case of a 13‐month‐old infant hospitalized for giant pulmonary chondromatous hamartoma discovered during a septic episode, rapidly progressive, with severe multifocal lesions, without clear response to several cytotoxic therapies. No predisposition syndrome was identified.
Successful treatment with daratumumab for post‐HSCT refractory hemolytic anemia
Authors: Even‐Or Ehud , Naser Eddin Adeeb , Shadur Bella , Dinur Schejter Yael , Najajreh Mohammad , Zelig Orly , Zaidman Irina , Stepensky Polina
Published: September 2019

Autoimmune cytopenias (AIC) following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may cause significant morbidity and mortality and are often challenging to treat. We present a case of a pediatric patient with primary myelofibrosis of infancy caused by VPS45 protein deficiency, who developed severe refractory hemolytic anemia and immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia 3.5 months following HSCT. After the failure of several treatments, he received daratumumab, an anti‐CD38 specific antibody, and demonstrated fast and sustained response. The only side effect was delayed recovery of humoral immunity. Daratumumab, by targeting antibody‐producing plasma cells, may be a valid treatment option for refractory post‐HSCT AIC.
An instrument in search of a theory: Structural validity of the Kaufman assessment battery for children‐second edition normative update at school‐age
Authors: McGill Ryan J.
Published: September 2019

The present study examined the factor structure of the Kaufman assessment battery for children‐second edition normative update with normative sample participants aged 7–18 years (N = 500) using confirmatory factor analysis with maximum likelihood estimation and multidimensional scaling procedures. For the 10 subtest Cattell‐Horn‐Carroll core battery configuration, an alternative hierarchical model with four group‐specific factors (crystallized ability, perceptual reasoning, short‐term memory, and long‐term storage and retrieval) provided the best fit to the normative data for both age groups. These results suggest caution for interpreting the visual processing and fluid reasoning index scores in isolation given the inability to locate those constructs independently at school‐age. Implications for the clinical interpretation of the measurement instrument moving forward are discussed.
Carrier Transfer of Deep‐Level Localized States in Type‐II InxGa1−xAs/GaNyAs1−y Short‐Period Superlattice
Authors: An Xuee , Ma Chuanhe , Zheng Xinhe , Hong Jin , Li Bo , Sun Lin , Yue Fangyu , Chen Ye
Published: September 2019

Optical properties of InGaAs/GaNAs superlattice are investigated by the photoluminescence and reflectance measurements. A quantum well (QW) emission PM (centered at ≈1.2 eV) and a broad low‐energy emission (LEE) band, which can be resolved to three peaks PA′, PA, and PB (0.77, 0.83, and 0.92 eV) are observed. The peak positions of the LEE exhibit S‐shaped behavior, whereas the QW emission shows a red shift with increasing temperature. The LEE bands are attributed to N‐related deep‐level localized state. The photoluminescence (PL) peak of QW exhibits a significant blue shift and saturation effect with increasing excitation density, which is interpreted in terms of the band‐bending model in the InGaAs/GaNAs short‐period superlattice (SPSL) with a type II band alignment. Furthermore, carrier transfer among these N‐related localized states is elucidated by examining the temperature‐dependent photoluminescence. Such carrier transfer is also demonstrated by the thermal effect under high excitation density.
Effect of Inserting a Transition Metal Cu Layer on the Spin‐Orbit Torque‐Induced Magnetization Switching in Pt/Co/Ta Structures
Authors: Chang Meixia , Yun Jijun , Mao Jian , Zuo Yalu , Xi Li
Published: September 2019

Current induced spin‐orbit torque (SOT) in perpendicularly magnetized heavy metal/ferromagnetic metal/heavy metal trilayers has been widely studied to achieve the current‐induced magnetization switching. Decreasing the critical switching current‐density (JC) is a primary factor in the performance of memory or logic devices because JC directly affects the power consumption of the devices. This work demonstrates the influences of inserting a transition metal copper (Cu) layer between the Co/Ta interface in the Pt/Co/Ta structures with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) on the JC, SOT, coercive field, and perpendicular magnetic anisotropy field (Han). The results show that JC decreases significantly when the thickness of Cu layer is above 3 nm, compared with the Pt/Co/Ta control sample, under consideration of the shunting effect of Cu layer. The decrease of JC is the result of the competition between the modified SOT and Han due to the insertion of Cu. The study suggests that the critical switching current‐density of SOT‐switching can be decreased by inserting a transition metal Cu layer.
2′‐5′‐Isomerically Linked Thrombin‐Binding Aptamer (isoTBA) Forms a Stable Unimolecular Parallel G‐Quadruplex in the Presence of Sr2+ Ions
Authors: Wagh Atish A. , Fernandes Moneesha
Published: September 2019

The ability of the isomeri 2′‐5′‐phosphodiester‐linked thrombin‐binding DNA aptamer pentadecamer G2T2G2TGTG2T2G2 (isoTBA), to fold into G‐quadruplex structures in the presence of different mono‐ and divalent cations is reported. Strikingly, Sr2+ ions cause isoTBA to fold into a stable parallel unimolecular G‐quadruplex, in contrast to the antiparallel unimolecular G‐quadruplex fold observed in the presence of K+. IsoTBA being advantageously more stable than TBA to nuclease degradation, may thus be useful in the selective detection of Sr2+ ions, which it can sense with a detection limit of ∼ 55 μM.
Investigation of the Influence of Process Conditions on the Catalytic Performance of Co–Ce/SiO2 Catalyst for CO Hydrogenation Reaction using RSM Method
Authors: Arsalanfar Maryam , Nouri Azita , Abdouss Majid
Published: September 2019

The Co−Ce/SiO2 catalyst was prepared using fusion method and evaluated in the fixed bed micro‐reactor for light olefins production. The influence of various operational conditions of reaction temperature (300‐450 °C), H2/CO feed ratio (1‐4) and total reaction pressure (1‐10 bar) was investigated on the (C2‐C4) light olefins production using statistical method. The modeling and optimization processes were performed using response surface methodology (RSM) method. A polynomial equation for each response was successfully fitted to the experimental data. The optimization results show that the best operational conditions for light olefins production are as follows: T=365 °C, P=5 bar and H2/CO=2. Under these optimized conditions the selectivity of (C2‐C4) light olefins and CO conversion% are maximum and the methane selectivity is minimum concurrently. Catalyst characterization was performed using, XRD, BET, TGA, DSC, TPR and SEM.
Anisotropic Growth and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Identification of Ultrathin Even‐Layered PdSe2 Ribbons
Authors: Jiang Shaolong , Xie Chunyu , Gu Yue , Zhang Qinghua , Wu Xianxin , Sun Yilin , Li Wei , Shi Yuping , Zhao Liyun , Pan Shuangyuan , Yang Pengfei , Huan Yahuan , Xie Dan , Zhang Qing , Liu Xinfeng , Zou Xiaolong , Gu Lin , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: September 2019

Palladium diselenide (PdSe2) is an emerging 2D layered material with anisotropic optical/electrical properties, extra‐high carrier mobility, excellent air stability, etc. So far, ultrathin PdSe2 is mainly achieved via mechanical exfoliation from its bulk counterpart, and the direct synthesis is still challenging. Herein, the synthesis of ultrathin 2D PdSe2 on conductive Au foil substrates via a facile chemical vapor deposition route is reported. Intriguingly, an anisotropic growth behavior is detected from the evolution of ribboned flakes with large length/width ratios, which is well explained from the orthorhombic symmetry of PdSe2. A unique even‐layered growth mode from 2 to 20 layers is also confirmed by the perfect combination of onsite scanning tunneling microscopy characterizations, through deliberately scratching the flake edge to expose both even and odd layers. This even‐layered, ribboned 2D material is expected to serve as a perfect platform for exploring unique physical properties, and for developing high‐performance electronic and optoelectronic devices.
The Next Generation of Colloidal Probes: A Universal Approach for Soft and Ultra‐Small Particles
Authors: Mark Andreas , Helfricht Nicolas , Rauh Astrid , Karg Matthias , Papastavrou Georg
Published: September 2019

The colloidal probe technique, which is based on the atomic force microscope, revolutionizes direct force measurements in many fields, such as interface science or biomechanics. It allows for the first time to determine interaction forces on the single particle or cell level. However, for many applications, important “blind spots” remain, namely, the possibility to probe interaction potentials for nanoparticles or complex colloids with a soft outer shell. Definitely, these are colloidal systems that are currently of major industrial importance and interest from theory. The here‐presented novel approach allows for overcome the aforementioned limitations. Its applicability has been demonstrated for 300 nm sized carboxylate‐modified latex particles as well as sub‐micron core–shell particles with a soft poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide hydrogel shell and a rigid silica core. For the latter, which until now cannot be studied by the colloidal probe technique, determined is the temperature dependency of electrosteric and adhesion forces has been determined on the single particle level.
Microfluidic Single‐Cell Omics Analysis
Authors: Xu Xing , Wang Junxia , Wu Lingling , Guo Jingjing , Song Yanling , Tian Tian , Wang Wei , Zhu Zhi , Yang Chaoyong
Published: September 2019

The commonly existing cellular heterogeneity plays a critical role in biological processes such as embryonic development, cell differentiation, and disease progress. Single‐cell omics‐based heterogeneous studies have great significance for identifying different cell populations, discovering new cell types, revealing informative cell features, and uncovering significant interrelationships between cells. Recently, microfluidics has evolved to be a powerful technology for single‐cell omics analysis due to its merits of throughput, sensitivity, and accuracy. Herein, the recent advances of microfluidic single‐cell omics analysis, including different microfluidic platform designs, lysis strategies, and omics analysis techniques, are reviewed. Representative applications of microfluidic single‐cell omics analysis in complex biological studies are then summarized. Finally, a few perspectives on the future challenges and development trends of microfluidic‐assisted single‐cell omics analysis are discussed.
Production, engine performance, combustion, emission characteristics and economic feasibility of biodiesel from waste cooking oil: A review
Authors: Rekhate Chhaya , Prajapati Abhinesh Kumar
Published: September 2019

The depletion of fossil fuel reserves and increasing demands for diesel are considered to be important triggers for many of the initiatives that have been taken to search for possible sources for the production of biodiesel from materials available within the country. It is possible to produce biodiesel from waste/used cooking oils (WCO) that is comparable in quality to that of fresh vegetable oil. Not only does reuse of WCO, which can otherwise harm human health, reduce the burden on the government of treating oily wastewater, disposing of the waste, and maintaining public sewers, it also significantly lowers the production cost of biodiesel. In the process of frying, oil undergoes many reactions, leading to the formation of a number of undesirable compounds, such as polymers, free fatty acids, and many other chemicals. This poses challenges in the transesterification of WCO. This article covers different techniques in the production of biodiesel from WCO. It also compares combustion, emissions, and engine performance characteristics of biodiesel from WCO as well as factors affecting biodiesel production from WCO and its economic feasibility.
Conventional CARs versus modular CARs
Authors: Feldmann Anja , Arndt Claudia , Koristka Stefanie , Berndt Nicole , Bergmann Ralf , Bachmann Michael P.
Published: September 2019

The clinical application of immune effector cells genetically modified to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) has shown impressive results including complete remissions of certain malignant hematological diseases. However, their application can also cause severe side effects such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). One limitation of currently applied CAR T cells is their lack of regulation. Especially, an emergency shutdown of CAR T cells in case of life-threatening side effects is missing. Moreover, targeting of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) that are not only expressed on tumor cells but also on vital tissues requires the possibility of a switch allowing to repeatedly turn the activity of CAR T cells on and off. Here we summarize the development of a modular CAR variant termed universal CAR (UniCAR) system that promises to overcome these limitations of conventional CARs.
Skeletal muscle, haematological and splenic volume characteristics of elite breath-hold divers
Authors: Elia Antonis , Wilson Oliver J. , Lees Matthew , Parker Paul J. , Barlow Matthew J. , Cocks Matthew , O’Hara John P.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The aim of the study was to provide an evaluation of the oxygen transport, exchange and storage capacity of elite breath-hold divers (EBHD) compared with non-divers (ND).

Methods

Twenty-one healthy males’ (11 EBHD; 10 ND) resting splenic volumes were assessed by ultrasound and venous blood drawn for full blood count analysis. Percutaneous skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained from them. vastus lateralisto measure capillarisation, and fibre type-specific localisation and distribution of myoglobin and mitochondrial content using quantitative immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

Splenic volume was not different between groups. Reticulocytes, red blood cells and haemoglobin concentrations were higher (+ 24%,p < 0.05; + 9%,p < 0.05; + 3%,p < 0.05; respectively) and mean cell volume was lower (− 6.5%,p < 0.05) in the EBHD compared with ND. Haematocrit was not different between groups. Capillary density was greater (+ 19%;p < 0.05) in the EBHD. The diffusion distance (R95) was lower in type I versus type II fibres for both groups (EBHD,p < 0.01; ND,p < 0.001), with a lower R95for type I fibres in the EBHD versus ND (− 13%,p < 0.05). Myoglobin content was higher in type I than type II fibres in EBHD (+ 27%;p < 0.01) and higher in the type I fibres of EBHD than ND (+ 27%;p < 0.05). No fibre type differences in myoglobin content were observed in ND. Mitochondrial content was higher in type I than type II fibres in EBHD (+ 35%;p < 0.05), with no fibre type differences in ND or between groups.

Conclusions

In conclusion, EBDH demonstrate enhanced oxygen storage in both blood and skeletal muscle and a more efficient oxygen exchange capacity between blood and skeletal muscle versus ND.
A methodology for designing electrification programs for remote areas
Authors: León Javier , Martín-Campo F. Javier , Ortuño M. Teresa , Vitoriano Begoña , Carrasco Luis Miguel , Narvarte Luis
Published: September 2019

One of the UN Sustainable Development Goals is the supply of sustainable energy even where no electrical grid is available. The photovoltaic rural electrification programs are the most common systems implemented in remote areas, especially in developing countries. These programs include the systems installation and their maintenance for a given period. Installation costs and even spare parts costs over time are usually well estimated. However, design and cost estimation of the maintenance systems is a difficult task, whose wrong management has often resulted in the failure of these electrification programs. In this work, a methodology for designing maintenance systems and estimating costs is presented. The methodology includes a mixed integer linear programming model and a rule based expert system. The mathematical programming model allows obtaining the optimal size and accurate cost estimation of a maintenance system, based on precise information about the installed systems. This model is calibrated and validated with real running programs and will be used to get an enlarged data set of simulated cases if needed. The rule based expert system is obtained from the data set applying classification and regression methods with general information about the region and program to be run. It can be used for designing programs or for companies making decisions about being involved in a program to be developed. The methodology has been applied to real Morocco programs.
Baltic Sea eutrophication status is not improved by the first pillar of the European Union Common Agricultural Policy
Authors: Jansson Torbjörn , Andersen Hans E. , Gustafsson Bo G. , Hasler Berit , Höglind Lisa , Choi Hyungsik
Published: September 2019

Agriculture is an important source of nitrogen and phosphorous loads to the Baltic Sea. We study how the European Union’s (EU) Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and in particular how its first pillar, containing most of the budget and the decoupled farm payments, affects eutrophication. To aid our study, we use three simulation models, covering the agricultural sector in the EU, a hydrological nutrient flow model and a model of eutrophication in the Baltic Sea. We compute changes in key eutrophication indicators in a business-as-usual baseline and in a hypothetical situation where the first pillar of the CAP, containing the direct payments, greening and accompanying measures, is not present. Comparing the outcomes, we find that in the scenario without the first pillar, production and agricultural land use is lower, while yields and fertiliser use per hectare are higher, causing less nitrogen and phosphorous loads (0.5 to 4% depending on the basin) and less eutrophication in the Baltic Sea as net effect. We therefore conclude that the policies of the first pillar of the CAP contribute to increased eutrophication in the Baltic Sea.
Cost–consequence analysis of fluticasone furoate/vilanterol for asthma management in Spain: an analysis based on the Salford Lung Study in asthma
Authors: Vallejo-Aparicio Laura Amanda , Molina Jesús , Ojanguren Iñigo , Viejo Casas Ana , Huerta Alicia , Svedsater Henrik
Published: September 2019

Objectives

The Salford Lung Study in asthma (SLS asthma) is a 12-month, open-label randomised clinical trial comparing clinical effectiveness of initiating once-daily inhaled combination of fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) 184/22 mcg or 92/22 mcg, with continuing optimized usual care (UC) with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) alone, or in combination with a long-acting β2-agonist (ICS/LABA), in asthmatic patients followed in primary care in the UK. The objective of the analysis is to estimate the economic impact of these results when applied in Spain.

Methods

A 1-year cost–consequence model was populated with SLS asthma, adopting the Spanish National Health System (NHS) perspective. 775,900 of diagnosed asthmatic patients ≥ 18 years old currently managed with UC in Spain were included in the analysis. Effectiveness data included the percentage of patients per Asthma Control Test (ACT) category at 24 and 52 weeks from SLS asthma. Direct costs (pharmacological and per ACT category) were estimated from Spanish public sources and literature (€, 2018). Base case analysis assumed an increased use of FF/VI from 10 to 20% within 1 year. One-way sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

Within the 775,900 asthmatic patients analysed, substitution of UC with FF/VI was associated with reduced costs due to ACT improvement, leading to potential total annual savings of €4,927,672. Sensitivity analyses ranged from €6,012,975 to €14,783,015 cost savings associated with FF/VI. An analysis considering patients only on ICS/LABA showed potential cost savings of €8,207,448.

Conclusions

The improved asthma control for FF/VI compared with UC observed in SLS asthma could be translated into potential savings for the Spanish NHS. These results may be useful for decision makers.
Partial Bone Formation in Additive Manufactured Porous Implants Reduces Predicted Stress and Danger of Fatigue Failure
Authors: Cheong Vee San , Fromme Paul , Coathup Melanie J. , Mumith Aadil , Blunn Gordon W.
Published: September 2019

New porous implant designs made possible by additive manufacturing allow for increased osseointegration, potentially improving implant performance and longevity for patients that require massive bone implants. The aim of this study was to evaluate how implantation and the strain distribution in the implant affect the pattern of bone ingrowth and how changes in tissue density within the pores alter the stresses in implants. The hypothesis was that porous metal implants are susceptible to fatigue failure, and that this reduces as osteointegration occurs. A phenomenological, finite element analysis (FEA) bone remodelling model was used to predict partial bone formation for two porous (pore sizes of 700 μm and 1500 μm), laser sintered Ti6Al4V implants in an ovine condylar defect model, and was compared and verified against in vivo, histology results. The FEA models predicted partial bone formation within the porous implants, but over-estimated the amount of bone-surface area compared to histology results. The stress and strain in the implant and adjacent tissues were assessed before, during bone remodelling, and at equilibrium. Results showed that partial bone formation improves the stress distribution locally by reducing stress concentrations for both pore sizes, by at least 20%. This improves the long-term fatigue resistance for the larger pore implant, as excessively high stress is reduced to safer levels (86% of fatigue strength) as bone forms. The stress distribution only changed slightly in regions without bone growth. As the extent of bone formation into extensively porous bone implants depends on the level of stress shielding, the design of the implant and stiffness have significant influence on bone integration and need to be considered carefully to ensure the safety of implants with substantial porous regions. To our knowledge this is the first time that the effect of bone formation on stress distribution within a porous implant has been described and characterised.
Inventory ordering policies for mixed sale of products under inspection policy, multiple prepayment, partial trade credit, payments linked to order quantity and full backordering
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Tavassoli Sara , Bhattacharya Arijit
Published: September 2019

The situation where serviceable products are sold together with a proportion of deteriorating products to consumers is rarely discussed in the literature. This article proposes an inventory model with disparate inventory ordering policies under a situation where a portion of serviceable products and a portion of deteriorating products are sold together to consumers (i.e. mixed sales). The ordering policies consider a hybrid payment strategy with multiple prepayment and partial trade credit schemes linked to order quantity under situations where no inventory shortage is allowed and inventory shortage is allowed with full backorder. The hybrid payment policy offered by a supplier is introduced into the classical economic ordering quantity model to investigate the optimal inventory cycle and the fraction of demand that is filled from the deteriorating products under inspection policy. Further, a new solution method is proposed that identifies optimal annual total profit with mixed sales assuming no inventory shortage and inventory shortage with full backorder. The impact of an inspection policy is investigated on the optimality of the solution under hybrid payment strategies for the deteriorating products. The validation of the proposed model and its solution method is demonstrated through several numerical examples. The results indicate that the inventory model along with the solution method provide a powerful tool to the retail managers under real-world situations. Results demonstrate that it is essential for the managers to consider inclusion of an inspection policy in the mixed sales of products, as the inspection policy significantly increases the net annual profit.
Research-based PAM50 signature and long-term breast cancer survival
Authors: Pu Minya , Messer Karen , Davies Sherri R. , Vickery Tammi L. , Pittman Emily , Parker Barbara A. , Ellis Matthew J. , Flatt Shirley W. , Marinac Catherine R. , Nelson Sandahl H. , Mardis Elaine R. , Pierce John P. , Natarajan Loki
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Multi-gene signatures provide biological insight and risk stratification in breast cancer. Intrinsic molecular subtypes defined by mRNA expression of 50 genes (PAM50) are prognostic in hormone-receptor positive postmenopausal breast cancer. Yet, for 25–40% in the PAM50 intermediate risk group, long-term risk remains uncertain. Our study aimed to (i) test the long-term prognostic value of the PAM50 signature in pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer; (ii) investigate if the PAM50 model could be improved by addition of other mRNAs implicated in oncogenesis.

Methods

We used archived FFPE samples from 1723 breast cancer survivors; high quality reads were obtained on 1253 samples. Transcript expression was quantified using a custom codeset with probes for > 100 targets. Cox models assessed gene signatures for breast cancer relapse and survival.

Results

Over 15 + years of follow-up, PAM50 subtypes were (P < 0.01) associated with breast cancer outcomes after accounting for tumor stage, grade and age at diagnosis. Results did not differ by menopausal status at diagnosis. Women with Luminal B (versus Luminal A) subtype had a > 60% higher hazard. Addition of a 13-gene hypoxia signature improved prognostication with > 40% higher hazard in the highest vs lowest hypoxia tertiles.

Conclusions

PAM50 intrinsic subtypes were independently prognostic for long-term breast cancer survival, irrespective of menopausal status. Addition of hypoxia signatures improved risk prediction. If replicated, incorporating the 13-gene hypoxia signature into the existing PAM50 risk assessment tool, may refine risk stratification and further clarify treatment for breast cancer.
Correlation between patency and clinical improvement after lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) in breast cancer-related lymphedema: 12-month follow-up
Authors: Wolfs Joost A. G. N. , de Joode Luuke G. E. H. , van der Hulst René R. W. J. , Qiu Shan S.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is caused by an interruption of the lymphatic system after breast cancer treatment. Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA), by which one or more patent lymphatic collecting vessels are connected to subcutaneous veins, shows promising results. Postoperatively, the patency of these anastomosis can be evaluated; however, little is known concerning the long-term patency after LVA in patients with BCRL. The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term patency, quality of life (QoL) and arm circumference after LVA, and to explore differences between patent and non-patent anastomosis and its correlation with clinical improvement.

Methods

Twenty-five patients underwent indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography, lymph ICF-questionnaire, and arm circumference measurement preoperatively and 12 months after the LVA procedure.

Results

Seventy-six percent of the patients showed at least one patent anastomosis after 12 months. Quality of life according to the Lymph-ICF increased significantly (p < 0.000); however, arm circumference showed no significant decrease. Sixty-five percent discontinued wearing compression stockings. The patent anastomosis group, compared with the non-patent anastomosis group showed, without significance, more improvement in QoL, arm circumference, and discontinuation of compression stockings, as well as a lower rate of infections both pre- and postoperatively, a shorter duration of lymphedema preoperatively, and a higher rate of early lymphedema and ICG stage.

Conclusions

LVA showed an acceptable patency and positive correlation between a patent anastomosis and clinical improvement after 12 months. Further research with a larger study population is required to determine whether outcomes or patient characteristics significantly correlate with a patent anastomosis after LVA operation.
The wage premium from foreign language skills
Authors: Liwiński Jacek
Published: September 2019

The globalisation of labour markets makes language skills one of the key competences required by employers nowadays. The purpose of this paper is to estimate the wage premium from the foreign language skills earned by Poles. Poles seem to be a good case study, because the Polish language is not used for international communication and as many as 58% of Poles command at least one foreign language. I use data from three waves (2012–2014) of the Human Capital Balance survey with a pooled sample of about 35,000 individuals. I estimate a wage equation with the Heckman correction for selection to employment and I check for robustness with propensity score matching. I find that the advanced command of a foreign language yields a wage premium of 11% on average. Interestingly, I find a much higher wage premium from proficiency in Spanish (32%), French (22%) or Italian (15%) than from proficiency in English (11%) or German (12%).
Application of cyanated asphaltenes in gas-phase adsorption processes for removal of volatile organic compounds
Authors: Plata-Gryl Maksymilian , Momotko Malwina , Makowiec Sławomir , Boczkaj Grzegorz
Published: September 2019

The paper presents an innovative, chemically modified (methylcyanated) asphaltene-based adsorbent that can be an interesting low-cost alternative for traditional adsorbents. Adsorption properties of adsorbents were examined by inverse gas chromatography technique, adsorption isotherms, and breakthrough curves. A significant increase in retention volume for pyridine, 2-pentanone, nitropropane, toluene, and 1-butanol was observed. Rohrschneider–McReynolds constants revealed an increase in strength of interactions as a result of the modification, especially in strong proton–acceptor interaction (by a factor of 4.6). The surface-free energy of asphaltene adsorbents increased from 136.71 to 169.95 mJ m−2 after modification. It is similar to the surface-free energy of silica or alumina. Moreover, modified adsorbent shows very high adsorption potential for pyridine. Adsorption isotherms revealed that monolayer adsorption capacity for pyridine increased 1.5 times after modification. Breakthrough curves of pyridine indicate that chemical modification increased the adsorption capacity, removal efficiency, and throughput. Scale-up calculations revealed that adsorption column packed with modified asphaltene adsorbent would be almost two times smaller compared to a column packed with unmodified one.

Graphic abstract
Application of CFD technique to simulate enhanced oil recovery processes: current status and future opportunities
Authors: Jafari Arezou , Hasani Mohammadreza , Hosseini Mostafa , Gharibshahi Reza
Published: September 2019

Nowadays, because of the reduction in oil resources and the passage of the first and second life period of current reservoirs, using enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods is of great importance. In recent years, due to the developments in technology and the advent of powerful computers, using simulation methods in enhanced oil recovery processes is on the rise. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, as a branch of fluid mechanics, is a suitable method for studying and simulating EOR methods. In this study, a review was done on the application of CFD studies for simulating EOR methods. Also, potentials for future studies and the challenges researchers may face in this method were mentioned. Although using this method in enhanced oil recovery processes has recently started, different areas for more studies still exist. To optimize the usage of this method in future studies, the necessity of multiphase models and solution methods development, as well as considering all microscopic parameters such as interfacial tension and viscosity in investigating oil recovery factor is of great importance.
Du corps reconstitué au corps reconfiguré
Authors: Gourinat Valentine
Published: September 2019

Cette note de recherche présente un travail de thèse portant sur les représentations sociales du corps amputé et appareillé dans l’imaginaire collectif contemporain. Il s’agissait d’observer, de comparer et d’analyser la façon dont l’espace public et médiatique s’empare du champ des prothèses, et de confronter ces projections et imaginaires collectifs, avec la façon dont les amputés eux-mêmes (mais aussi les soignants qui les côtoient et les entourent) se représentent et construisent leur identité sociale et corporelle, afin de démontrer qu’un certain décalage sépare ce que l’on croit connaître des amputés et des prothèses, et ce qu’il en est réellement sur le terrain (problématiques réelles, pratiques et usages au quotidien). L’objectif de cette recherche était aussi de tenter de formuler des propositions permettant de remettre la personne amputée au cœur de considérations plus rationnelles, pragmatiques et éthiques, loin de toute projection, spéculation et fantasmagorie.
Extracorporeal Shock Waves Therapy Delivered by Aries Improves Erectile Dysfunction in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats Through Penile Tissue Remodeling and Neovascularization
Authors: Assaly Rana , Giuliano François , Clement Pierre , Laurin Miguel , Favier Maryline , Teo Pearline , Bernabe Jacques , Alexandre Laurent , Behr-Roussel Delphine
Published: September 2019

Background

Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) has been reported to improve erectile function in patients with moderate-to-severe erectile dysfunction (ED) or even convert phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors nonresponders to responders. ED is highly prevalent in hypertensive patients. The effect of Li-ESWT on an animal model of hypertension-associated ED has not been reported.

Aim

To investigate the effect of Li-ESWT on hypertension-associated ED and provide plausible mechanisms of action of Li-ESWT on local mechanisms of penile erection.

Methods

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) in the active group (n = 13) received Li-ESWT at energy flux density 0.06 mJ/mm2 (Aries; Dornier MedTech, Wessling, Germany) twice weekly for 6 weeks. The emitter was set to zero for SHRs in the sham group (n = 12). Erectile function was assessed 4 weeks post-treatment by monitoring intracavernosal pressure (ICP) in response to electrical stimulation of cavernous nerve before and after single dose of 0.3 mg/kg intravenous sildenafil. Cavernosal tissue was then evaluated for collagen/smooth muscle content, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and vascular endothelial factor (CD31) expression.

Outcomes

Erectile function was assessed with ICP, erectile tissue remodeling was studied by smooth muscle/collagen ratio, nNOS and CD31 were semiquantitatively evaluated on cavernosal sections.

Results

The improvement of ICP parameters was greater in Li-ESWT–treated rats compared with controls with and without sildenafil. Sildenafil led to 20% increase in area under the intracavernosal pressure curve measured during the entire response/mean arterial pressure at 10 Hz in ESWT_SHR + sildenafil compared with ESWT_SHR. The smooth muscle/collagen ratio increased 2.5-fold in Li-ESWT compared with sham. Expression of CD31 tended to be increased whereas nNOS was unchanged.

Conclusions

Li-ESWT by Aries may represent an effective noninvasive therapeutic alternative and a relevant add-on therapy to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors for ED in hypertensive patients, and it is suggested that it acts via remodeling of the penile tissue and promoting cavernosal vascularization.
Circular RNA Expression Profiles in Vaginal Epithelial Tissue of Women With Lubrication Disorders
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Xia Haiping , Zhang Aixia , Zhu Yuan , Pan Lianjun , Gu Ping , Ma Jiehua
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Recently, circular RNA (circRNA) has been proved to occupy a vital pathological position in many diseases by acting as microRNAs sponges. However, the role of circRNA in female sexual dysfunction (FSD), especially in lubrication disorders (LDs), remains unclear.

Aim

The aim of this study was to detect circRNA expression in LDs, analyzed target genes, and pathways regulated by the differently expressed circRNAs.

Methods

In this study, next-generation sequencing was first conducted to produce circRNA expression profiles of FSD groups and normal control groups. Furthermore, differences in expression of 6 randomly selected circRNAs were confirmed through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes biological pathway analysis and Gene Ontology showed that immune processes and infection could be involved in the development of FSDs.

Main Outcome Measure

CircRNA expression in vaginal epithelial tissue obtained from women with LDs have been detected. Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes biological pathway analysis, and circRNA-microRNA interaction predictions were investigated.

Results

Totally, 7,746 circRNAs of vaginal epithelial tissue from women of 2 groups were sequenced. Preliminary judgment revealed that there were 73 circRNAs that have significant differential expression, including 53 downregulated circRNAs and 20 upregulated circRNAs. Research results also displayed that the majority of circRNAs has multiple binding sites of microRNAs, including miR-137, which has been reported to be linked to FSD.

Clinical Implications

We predicted 10 circRNAs paired with hsa-miR-137-5p, but the mechanism of circRNA involvement in disease development remains to be further explored.

Strengths & Limitations

For the first time, the research disclosed the potential pathogenesis of LDs. However, we only analyzed the expression profile of circRNA in FSD, no specific mechanism was further confirmed or proposed. We still have a preliminary understanding, and more research is needed to explore the target of FSD treatment.

Conclusion

The results suggest that circRNAs have different expression in the FSD groups and play a vital part in the occurrence and development of FSD.
Transitivity correlation: A descriptive measure of network transitivity
Authors: Dekker David , Krackhardt David , Snijders Tom A. B.
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes that common measures for network transitivity, based on the enumeration of transitive triples, do not reflect the theoretical statements about transitivity they aim to describe. These statements are often formulated as comparative conditional probabilities, but these are not directly reflected by simple functions of enumerations. We think that a better approach is obtained by considering the probability of a tie between two randomly drawn nodes, conditional on selected features of the network. Two measures of transitivity based on correlation coefficients between the existence of a tie and the existence, or the number, of two-paths between the nodes are developed, and called “Transitivity Phi” and “Transitivity Correlation.” Some desirable properties for these measures are studied and compared to existing clustering coefficients, in both random (Erdös–Renyi) and in stylized networks (windmills). Furthermore, it is shown that in a directed graph, under the condition of zero Transitivity Correlation, the total number of transitive triples is determined by four underlying features: size, density, reciprocity, and the covariance between in- and outdegrees. Also, it is demonstrated that plotting conditional probability of ties, given the number of two-paths, provides valuable insights into empirical regularities and irregularities of transitivity patterns.
Written training tasks are better than oral training tasks at improving L2 learners’ speech production
Authors: Solier Clara , Perret Cyril , Baqué Lorraine , Soum-Favaro Christiane
Published: September 2019

This study examined the effect of written input on the production of word-final vowels (oral: /i/, /e/; nasal: /ɑ̃/, /ɔ̃/) by 100 native Moroccan learners of French as a second language, relying on a pretest/posttest paradigm. During pretest, participants performed a word repetition task. Then, participants were assigned to five experimental (training) conditions, varying in the modality of stimulus presentation (oral vs. written) and in the modality of response (oral vs. written), before their oral production of the word-final vowels was evaluated in the posttest. Results clearly showed that posttest pronunciation accuracy was affected by the presence of orthographic information in the training task. The copy training task was the most efficient at improving posttest accuracy. Results indicate that orthography, and more specifically the written production copy task, helps L2 learners’ pronunciation more efficiently than phonetic correction.
GLOBAL GOODS, SILVER AND MARKET INTEGRATION: CONSUMPTION OF WINE, SILK AND PORCELAIN THROUGH THE GRILL COMPANY VIA MACAO-CANTON AND MARSEILLE-SEVILLE TRADE NODES, 18TH CENTURY
Authors: Perez-Garcia Manuel
Published: September 2019

New global history studies have provided theoretical models related to different paths of economic growth and consumer behaviour between East Asia (mainly China and Japan) and Europe during the period of the first industrialisation. However, more research challenging the Eurocentric views of the origins of globalisation is needed. In this article, I examine the exchanges of Chinese silks and porcelains and European wines and liquors for American silver through the Swedish Grill Company. This company had extensive business activities in Canton and Macao establishing strategic links and intermediation with other relevant companies from China, Manila, Seville and Marseille. On the global level, such exchanges played a crucial role for the accumulation of American silver in China during the Qing dynasty, and the outflows of Chinese goods to the Americas and Europe fostered market integration and globalisation that occurred earlier than 1820.
Structural and optical properties of Ba3(Nb6−xTax)Si4O26 (x = 0.6, 1.8, 3.0, 4.2, 5.4)
Authors: Wong-Ng W. , Liu G. Y. , Liu W. F. , Yang Y. Q. , Wang S. Y. , Lan Y. C. , Windover D. A. , Kaduk J. A.
Published: September 2019

Structure and optical properties have been successfully determined for a series of niobium- and tantalum-containing layered alkaline-earth silicate compounds, Ba3(Nb6−xTax)Si4O26 (x = 0.6, 1.8, 3.0, 4.2, 5.4). The structure of this solid solution was found to be hexagonal P-62m (No. 189), with Z = 1. With x increases from 0.6 to 5.4, the lattice parameter a increases from 8.98804(8) to 9.00565(9) Å and c decreases from 7.83721(10) to 7.75212(12) Å. As a result, the volume decreases from 548.304(11) to 544.479(14) Å3. The (Nb/Ta)O6 distorted octahedra form continuous chains along the c-axis. These (Nb/Ta)O6 chains are in turn linked with the Si2O7 groups to form distorted pentagonal channels in which Ba ions were found. These Ba2+ ions have full occupancy and a 13-fold coordination environment with neighboring oxygen sites. Another salient feature of the structure is the linear Si–O–Si chains. When x in Ba3(Nb6−xTax)Si4O26 increases, the bond valence sum (BVS) values of the Ba sites increase slightly (2.09–2.20), indicating the size of the cage becoming progressively smaller (over-bonding). While SiO cages are also slightly smaller than ideal (BVS range from 4.16 to 4.19), the (Nb/Ta)O6 octahedral cages are slightly larger than ideal (BVS range from 4.87 to 4.90), giving rise to an under-bonding situation. The bandgaps of the solid solution members were measured between 3.39 and 3.59 eV, and the x = 3.0 member was modeled by density functional theory techniques to be 3.07 eV. The bandgaps of these materials indicate that they are potential candidates for ultraviolet photocatalyst.
Embryo culture at a reduced oxygen concentration of 5%: a mini review
Authors: Sciorio R. , Smith G.D.
Published: September 2019

The optimum oxygen tension for culturing mammalian embryos has been widely debated by the scientific community. While several laboratories have moved to using 5% as the value for oxygen tension, the majority of modernin vitrofertilization (IVF) laboratory programmes still use 20%. Severalin vivostudies have shown the oxygen tension measured in the oviduct of mammals fluctuates between 2% and 8% and in cows and primates this values drops to <2% in the uterine milieu. In human IVF, a non-physiological level of 20% oxygen has been used in the past. However, several studies have shown that atmospheric oxygen introduces adverse effects to embryo development, not limited to numerous molecular and cellular physiology events. In addition, low oxygen tension plays a critical role in reducing the high level of detrimental reactive oxygen species within cells, influences embryonic gene expression, helps with embryo metabolism of glucose, and enhances embryo development to the blastocyst stage. Collectively, this improves embryo implantation potential. However, clinical studies have yielded contradictory results. In almost all reports, some level of improvement has been identified in embryo development or implantation, without any observed drawbacks. This review article will examine the recent literature and discusses ongoing efforts to understand the benefits that low oxygen tension can bring to mammal embryo developmentin vitro.