bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The inhibitory effects of butein on cell proliferation and TNF-α-induced CCL2 release in racially different triple negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Mendonca Patricia , Horton Ainsley , Bauer David , Messeha Samia , Soliman Karam F.A.
Published: April 2019

Breast cancer drug resistance is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women, and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype, affecting African American women more aggressively compared to Caucasians. Of all cancer-related deaths, 15 to 20% are associated with inflammation, where proinflammatory cytokines have been implicated in the tumorigenesis process. The current study investigated the effects of the polyphenolic compound butein (2′,3,4,4′-tetrahydroxychalcone) in cell proliferation and survival, as well as its modulatory effect on the release of proinflammatory cytokines in MDA-MB-231 (Caucasian) and MDA-MB-468 (African American) TNBC cell. Results showed that butein decreased cell viability in a time and dose-dependent manner and after 72-h of treatment, cell proliferation rate was reduced in both cell lines. In addition, butein presented higher potency in MDA-MB-468, exhibiting anti-proliferative effects in lower concentrations. Apoptosis assays demonstrated that butein increased apoptotic cells in MDA MB-468, showing 90% of the analyzed cells in the apoptotic phase, compared to 54% in MDA-MB-231 cells. Additionally, butein downregulated both, protein and mRNA expression of CCL2 proinflammatory cytokine and IKBKE in Caucasian cells, but not in African Americans. This study demonstrates butein potential in cancer suppression showing a higher cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, and apoptotic effects in African Americans, compared to Caucasians TNBC cells. It also reveals the butein inhibitory effect on CCL2 expression with a possible association with IKBKE downregulation in MDA-MB-231 cells only, indicating that Caucasians and African Americans TNBC cells respond differently to butein treatment. The obtained findings may provide an explanation regarding the poor response to therapy in African American patients with advance TNBC.
An inexpensive remotely-operated video recording system for continuous behavioral observations
Authors: Weber W.David , Fisher Heidi S.
Published: April 2019

Video recording technology is an important tool for studies of animal behavior because it reduces observer effects and produces a record of experiments, interactions among subjects, and contextual information, however it remains cost prohibitive for many researchers. Here we present an inexpensive method for building a remotely-operated video recording system to continuously monitor behavioral or other biological experiments. Our system employs Raspberry Pi computers and cameras, open-source software, and allows for wireless networking, live-streaming, and the capacity to simultaneously record from several cameras in an array. To validate this system, we continuously monitored home-cage behavior of California mice (Peromyscus californicus) in a laboratory setting. We captured video in both low- and bright-light environments to record behaviors of this nocturnal species, and then quantified mating interactions of California mouse pairs by analyzing the videos with an open-source event logging software. This video recording platform offers users the flexibility to modify the specifications for a range of tasks and the scalability to make research more efficient and reliable to a larger population of scientists.
Phasing in heterochromatin during development
Authors: Armstrong Robin L. , Duronio Robert J.
Published: April 2019

Constitutive heterochromatin is a prevalent feature of eukaryotic genomes important for promoting cell differentiation and maintaining genome stability. During animal reproduction, constitutive heterochromatin is disassembled in gametes prior to formation of the zygote and then subsequently re-established as development ensues and cells differentiate. Despite progress in understanding the mechanisms that maintain heterochromatin in differentiated cell types, how constitutive heterochromatin is assembled de novo during early development remains poorly understood. In this issue of Genes & Development, Seller and colleagues (pp. 403–417) develop a new technology for inhibiting maternal gene function to identify the H3K9 methyltransferase necessary for initiating constitutive heterochromatin formation during early Drosophila embryogenesis.
Detection of a cryptic NUP214/ABL1 gene fusion by mate-pair sequencing (MPseq) in a newly diagnosed case of pediatric T-lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Peterson Jess F. , Pitel Beth A. , Smoley Stephanie A. , Smadbeck James B. , Johnson Sarah H. , Vasmatzis George , Koon Sarah J. , Webley Matthew R. , McGrath Mary , Bayerl Michael G. , Baughn Linda B. , Rowsey Ross A. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Greipp Patricia T. , Hoppman Nicole L.
Published: April 2019

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematopoietic neoplasm involving the bone marrow and blood that accounts for ∼15% of childhood and 25% of adult ALL. Whereas multiple, recurrent genetic abnormalities have been described in T-ALL, their clinical significance is unclear or controversial. Importantly, ABL1 rearrangements, most commonly described in BCR/ABL1-positive B-ALL and BCR-ABL1-like B-ALL, have been observed in T-ALL and may respond to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. We describe a newly diagnosed case of pediatric T-ALL with a fluorescence in situ hybridization abnormality suggesting a partial ABL1 deletion by a BCR/ABL1 dual-color dual-fusion probe but that demonstrated a normal result using an ABL1 break-apart probe. Mate-pair sequencing (MPseq), a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based technology utilized to detect copy number and structural abnormalities with high resolution and precision throughout the genome, was performed and revealed a NUP214/ABL1 gene fusion that has been demonstrated to be sensitive to TKI therapy. This case demonstrates the power of MPseq to resolve chromosomal abnormalities unappreciable by traditional cytogenetic methodologies and highlights the clinical value of this novel NGS-based technology.
Exceptional responders with invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas: a phase 2 trial of bortezomib in patients with KRAS G12D-mutant lung cancers
Authors: Drilon Alexander , Schoenfeld Adam J. , Arbour Kathryn C. , Litvak Anna , Ni Ai , Montecalvo Joseph , Yu Helena A. , Panora Elizabeth , Ahn Linda , Kennedy Maureen , Haughney-Siller Anne , Miller Vincent , Ginsberg Michelle , Ladanyi Marc , Arcila Maria , Rekhtman Natasha , Kris Mark G. , Riely Gregory J.
Published: April 2019

KRAS G12D-mutant/p53-deficient non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) models are dependent on the NF-κB pathway that can be down-regulated by the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. Two exceptional responders were observed on prior clinical trials of bortezomib, both of whom had KRAS G12D-mutant NSCLC, prompting the initiation of this single-center phase 2 trial. Patients with advanced KRAS G12D-mutant NSCLC were eligible. Bortezomib was administered at 1.3 mg/m2 subcutaneously (days 1, 4, 8, 11; 21-d cycle) until progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary objective was best objective response (RECIST v1.1). Sixteen patients with KRAS G12D-mutant lung adenocarcinomas were treated. Patients had a median pack year smoking history of 4 (range 0–45). A partial response (PR) was observed in one patient (−66% from baseline) and stable disease in five patients on the first stage of this study (overall response rate of 6%, 95% CI: 0.2–30.2), and further patients were not accrued. The median progression-free survival was 1 mo (95% CI: 1–6). The median overall survival was 13 mo (95% CI: 6–NA). The most common treatment-related adverse events were fatigue (38%) and diarrhea (26%). TP53 status did not predict response on exploratory testing. Of note, the patient with a PR had a unique subtype of lung adenocarcinoma—invasive mucinous adenocarcinomas (IMA)—and had rapid clinical improvement and substantial disease regression, which was also previously observed in two other patients with advanced KRAS G12D-mutant lung cancer with IMAs who received bortezomib on separate clinical trials. Exceptional responses to bortezomib can be achieved in KRAS G12D-mutant NSCLCs. KRAS G12D mutation alone, however, is not a robust predictor of response. Further evaluation should only be performed after further elucidation of other factors such as co-occurring alterations and histologic subtype such as IMA that may predict sensitivity to therapy.
Genomic stratification and liquid biopsy in a rare adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) case, with dual lung metastases
Authors: McCabe Mark J. , Pinese Mark , Chan Chia-Ling , Sheriff Nisa , Thompson Tanya J. , Grady John , Wong Marie , Gauthier Marie-Emilie A. , Puttick Clare , Gayevskiy Velimir , Hajdu Elektra , Wong Stephen Q. , Barrett Wade , Earls Peter , Lukeis Robyn , Cheng Yuen Y. , Lin Ruby C.Y. , Thomas David M. , Watkins D. Neil , Dinger Marcel E. , McCormack Ann I. , Cowley Mark J.
Published: April 2019

Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis and few treatment options. Molecular characterization of this cancer remains limited. We present a case of an adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) in a 37-yr-old female, with dual lung metastases identified 1 yr following commencement of adjuvant mitotane therapy. As standard therapeutic regimens are often unsuccessful in ACC, we undertook a comprehensive genomic study into this case to identify treatment options and monitor disease progress. We performed targeted and whole-genome sequencing of germline, primary tumor, and both metastatic tumors from this patient and monitored recurrence over 2 years using liquid biopsy for ctDNA and steroid hormone measurements. Sequencing revealed the primary and metastatic tumors were hyperhaploid, with extensive loss of heterozygosity but few structural rearrangements. Loss-of-function mutations were identified in MSH2, TP53, RB1, and PTEN, resulting in tumors with mismatch repair signatures and microsatellite instability. At the cellular level, tumors were populated by mitochondria-rich oncocytes. Longitudinal ctDNA mutation and hormone profiles were unable to detect micrometastatic disease, consistent with clinical indicators of disease remission. The molecular signatures in our ACC case suggested immunotherapy in the event of disease progression; however, the patient remains free of cancer. The extensive molecular analysis presented here could be applied to other rare and/or poorly stratified cancers to identify novel or repurpose existing therapeutic options, thereby broadly improving diagnoses, treatments, and prognoses.
Counterstaining, Mounting, and Photographing Stained Cells
Authors: Rodig Scott J.
Published: April 2019

Counterstains and mounting media for immunohistology must be compatible with the detection method used. The results of cell-staining experiments can be stored on film or digitally.
Indexing grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction patterns of thin films: lattices of higher symmetry
Authors: Simbrunner Josef , Hofer Sebastian , Schrode Benedikt , Garmshausen Yves , Hecht Stefan , Resel Roland , Salzmann Ingo
Published: April 2019

Grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction studies on organic thin films are often performed on systems showing fibre-textured growth. However, indexing their experimental diffraction patterns is generally challenging, especially if low-symmetry lattices are involved. Recently, analytical mathematical expressions for indexing experimental diffraction patterns of triclinic lattices were provided. In the present work, the corresponding formalism for crystal lattices of higher symmetry is given and procedures for applying these equations for indexing experimental data are described. Two examples are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the indexing method. For layered crystals of the prototypical organic semiconductors diindenoperylene and (ortho-difluoro)sexiphenyl, as grown on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, their yet unknown unit-cell parameters are determined and their crystallographic lattices are identified as monoclinic and orthorhombic, respectively.
Comparison of electron backscatter and X-ray diffraction techniques for measuring dislocation density in Zircaloy-2
Authors: Skippon T. , Balogh L. , Daymond M. R.
Published: April 2019

Two methods for measuring dislocation density were applied to a series of plastically deformed tensile samples of Zircaloy-2. Samples subjected to plastic strains ranging from 4 to 17% along a variety of loading paths were characterized using both electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and synchrotron X-ray line profile analysis (LPA). It was found that the EBSD-based method gave results which were similar in magnitude to those obtained by LPA and followed a similar trend with increasing plastic strain. The effects of microscope parameters and post-processing of the EBSD data on dislocation density measurements are also discussed. The typical method for estimating uncertainty in dislocation density measured via EBSD was shown to be overly conservative, and a more realistic method of determining uncertainty is presented as an alternative.
Reducing the background of ultra-low-temperature X-ray diffraction data through new methods and advanced materials
Authors: McMonagle Charles James , Probert Michael Richard
Published: April 2019

New methods and advanced materials that significantly reduce the background when collecting single-crystal X-ray diffraction data at ultra-low temperatures using a closed-cycle helium refrigerator are presented here. These include a magnetically controlled internal beamstop and a separate internal collimator that together completely remove the scattering contribution to the background from the beryllium vacuum chamber. Additionally, a new radiation shield made from flexible graphite significantly reduces the background and maintains excellent thermal properties. In combination these improvements have led to a sixfold reduction in the average intensity and a 15-fold reduction in peak intensity of the background observed for diffraction experiments conducted with a closed-cycle helium refrigerator. Moreover, access to ultra-low base temperatures, 2.05 K, has been maintained. The design and implementation of these methods are discussed along with a case study of vitamin C to demonstrate the effectiveness of the improvements.
Long-wavelength native-SAD phasing: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Basu Shibom , Olieric Vincent , Leonarski Filip , Matsugaki Naohiro , Kawano Yoshiaki , Takashi Tomizaki , Huang Chia-Ying , Yamada Yusuke , Vera Laura , Olieric Natacha , Basquin Jerome , Wojdyla Justyna A. , Bunk Oliver , Diederichs Kay , Yamamoto Masaki , Wang Meitian
Published: April 2019

Native single-wavelength anomalous dispersion (SAD) is an attractive experimental phasing technique as it exploits weak anomalous signals from intrinsic light scatterers (Z < 20). The anomalous signal of sulfur in particular, is enhanced at long wavelengths, however the absorption of diffracted X-rays owing to the crystal, the sample support and air affects the recorded intensities. Thereby, the optimal measurable anomalous signals primarily depend on the counterplay of the absorption and the anomalous scattering factor at a given X-ray wavelength. Here, the benefit of using a wavelength of 2.7 over 1.9 Å is demonstrated for native-SAD phasing on a 266 kDa multiprotein-ligand tubulin complex (T2R-TTL) and is applied in the structure determination of an 86 kDa helicase Sen1 protein at beamline BL-1A of the KEK Photon Factory, Japan. Furthermore, X-ray absorption at long wavelengths was controlled by shaping a lysozyme crystal into spheres of defined thicknesses using a deep-UV laser, and a systematic comparison between wavelengths of 2.7 and 3.3 Å is reported for native SAD. The potential of laser-shaping technology and other challenges for an optimized native-SAD experiment at wavelengths >3 Å are discussed.
Effectiveness of incentivized social media campaigns for a Fortune 500 company’s brand
Authors: Razi Muhammad , Tarn J. Michael , Mumuni Alhassan G.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine how best to build online advocates for a food company’s brand based on data available from the brand’s Facebook pages. Specific research objectives are to study examine whether incentivizing actions such as “liking,” sharing or commenting on a brand’s Facebook impacts the brand community’s sentiment and engagement with the brand, and whether such engagement is different for different actions (e.g. liking vs sharing).

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objectives of this research, sentiment analysis is performed on Facebook insight data from a Fortune 500 company, consisting of fans’ comments, shares and “likes” for promotional and fan posts pertaining to one of its brands. Paired samples t-tests are performed to assess differences in sentiment and engagement before and after each promotional post.

Findings

The results do not support a strong impact of promotional posts on overall sentiment. However, there is evidence in support of a positive impact of the campaigns on overall wall-level engagement with the brand. Moreover, the levels of engagement are not the same for all promotional posts. Rather, some posts resulted in much higher engagement levels than others, suggesting that not all incentivized campaigns are created equal.

Research limitations/implications

The study used the data from only one of company’s many brands. Therefore, similar studies on other brands are warranted.

Practical implications

Social networking sites are increasing in numbers, and more and more businesses are embracing social networks and/or blogs as part of their marketing platforms. Many companies offer coupons and incentives on social media to entice customers to engage with their social media platforms as well as buy products. The study results provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of different kinds of social media promotional campaigns, and can help managers decide which campaigns to implement to achieve specific objectives.

Originality/value

This research adds to the literature in two ways. First, it contributes to the limited literature on the effectiveness of incentivized social media campaign. Second, it contributes to the social media analytics literature by demonstrating how sentiment analysis can be used along with other statistical procedures to make sense of qualitative social media data.
Information dissemination related to the Sustainable Development Goals on German local governmental websites
Authors: Meschede Christine
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate information dissemination related to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on German local governmental websites in metropolitan areas. With the growing importance of urban areas for sustainable development, the Association of German Cities recommended an official commitment to the SDGs of all cities. In this paper, the author analyzes which cities report about their commitment to the SDGs on their governmental websites, what thematic information with regard to the SDGs is published on these websites and the role of partnerships and citizen participation in relation to the SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of local governmental websites of the 15 largest German cities was conducted in July 2018.

Findings

The SDGs found their way into several German cities and their corresponding governmental websites. The most prevalent topics linked to the SDGs are education, climate protection, fair trade, energy and mobility. The cities have different strategies in informing about the goals. Most cities emphasize the role of citizen participation and partnerships on their websites.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis of websites can only provide a snapshot of reality as the content changes permanently. Further, a limited number of cities were considered which should be expanded in future research.

Originality/value

This study shows examples of German cities raising awareness on the SDGs and demonstrates gaps in doing so. It can help other cities in identifying possibilities and opportunities to deal with the SDGs and raise awareness on them by publishing related information on governmental websites.
Signal integrity in microelectronic hybrid systems made on metal substrates
Authors: Klepacki Dariusz , Sabat Wieslaw , Kamuda Kazimierz , Kurylo Kazimierz
Published: April 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present the problems connected with integrity of electrical signals in microelectronic hybrid systems made on metal substrates. The systems made on ferritic and austenitic sheet substrates were selected for the analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

For experimental investigations for the identification of the per-unit-length parameters for the simplest planar structures realized in thick-film technology on metal substrates, three types of path test systems with different geometric parameters were made. For the test circuits’ realization, the metal substrates of ferritic stainless steel of H17 grade (1.4016) with a thickness of 1 mm were selected. The sizes of 110 × 60 mm were obtained by laser cutting which process was required to obtain sufficient flatness of the substrates. Measurements were conducted using special elaborated equipment.

Findings

For selected configurations of conductive paths, the results of calculations and measurements of the range of variability of residual parameters for the systems of mutually parallel paths were presented. For selected path systems, the results of signals integrity analysis in mutually parallel path systems have been included.

Originality/value

The influence of configuration of paths, their geometrical and physical parameters on the value of residual elements parameters was determined, and their role in propagation process of fast-changing signals in the mutually parallel path systems was analyzed. These effects are very important from the point of view of electromagnetic compatibility and signal integrity of electronic circuits.
On “followers” and the inability to define
Authors: Andersen Jon Aarum
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Scholars’ ability to do research based on the notions of “follower” and “followership” is questioned when studying formal leadership in organizations. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical comments are presented on the usefulness of the notions of followers and followership.

Findings

There are no evidence that followership exists other than some scholars’ perception of something that they have been unable to define. The conclusion is that the inability to define these notions is tantamount to the inability to research them.

Research limitations/implications

The literature review contains no new empirical data.

Originality/value

The paper stresses that study objects which are not theoretically and empirically defined cannot be investigated.
Application of natural dye on polytrimethylene terephthalate fiber
Authors: Sen Arnab , Bhowal Avijit , Datta Siddhartha
Published: April 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the feasibility of developing an eco-friendly dyeing process for a regenerated polyester fiber (polytrimethylene terephthalate) using a natural dye (Lac) and bio-mordant.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of temperature, time, initial pH of dye bath, material to liquor ratio and mordant concentration on color strength of polytrimethylene terephthalate fiber dyed with Lac were examined. The results were compared using three bio-mordant (catechu, myrobalan and pomegranate) and three inorganic mordant (alum, ferrous sulfate and stannous chloride). Single replicate of 25-design methodology was used to identify three significant factors affecting color strength, and optimization was done using response surface methodology based on 23-central composite rotatable design.

Findings

Color strength achieved using catechu as a bio-mordant was close to that with ferrous sulfate and higher than with stannous chloride. Temperature, initial pH and mordant concentration were identified as significant factors affecting color strength of dyed fiber with catechu. Optimization revealed temperature of 133OC, initial pH of 6 and bio-mordant (Catechu) concentration of 10 per cent to be the optimal conditions for dyeing, with K/S value of 4.55.

Originality/value

The study revealed the possibility of satisfactory dyeing of regenerated polyester fibers with natural dyes, replacing disperse dyes. The comparison of color strength achieved indicated the possibility of replacing inorganic mordant with bio-mordant in such dyeing process. The dyeing process could thus be made more eco-friendly by removal of toxic chemicals from effluents.
Pest control at a regional scale: Identifying key criteria using a spatially explicit, agent‐based model
Authors: Lustig Audrey , James Alex , Anderson Dean , Plank Micheal
Published: April 2019

Invasive mammals are a major threat to biodiversity. Understanding how their distributions and abundance could be affected by different temporal and spatial control strategies is fundamental for planning effective management programs.

We developed a spatially explicit, agent‐based model to test the impacts of different spatiotemporal management strategies on a pest population. As a case study, we used the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) population in the Cape‐to‐City treatment area in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.

We found striking differences in the effectiveness of different spatial control strategies – a well designed spatial control strategy could be up to twice as cost effective as poorly designed ones.

The optimal spatial control strategy may depend on the total control effort. At low control effort, habitat‐targeted control was more effective; at high control effort, homogeneously distributed control was more effective.

Immigration rather than in situ breeding is likely to initiate the population recovery in treated areas after an initial knockdown. Therefore, increasing the size of treatment areas and maximizing the use of natural barriers to immigration could prolong treatment persistence.

Synthesis and applications. We have demonstrated how a spatially explicit, agent‐based model can be used to identify key criteria for a control strategy of open pest populations. The integration of available information on pest habitat use, population dynamics and actual levels of control allowed us to assess the deployment of control sites and assisted the choice of spatial control strategies. Important roles for this type of model are to help predict hotspots of mammalian pest activities, to suggest the most effective control strategy and to identify important parameters and data for improving predictions. Ultimately, further integration of spatial and temporal analyses is critical for updating and optimizing management strategies.
Plants as ethnographic subjects
Authors: Hartigan John
Published: April 2019

Plants can be intriguing, challenging ethnographic subjects. Plants are communicative, agential and social. Engaging them ethnographically possibly expands the scope and relevance of ethnographic methods and theorizing. The phenotypic plasticity of plants makes them strikingly attuned to ethnographic concerns with place and its constitutions; they also actively constitute place through niche construction. There are various intellectual resources available for this kind of engagement through the long‐established disciplines of phytosociology and botany, which, like ethnography, is a field‐based practice.
Magic darts and messenger molecules: Toward a phytoethnography of indigenous Amazonia
Authors: DALY LEWIS , SHEPARD GLENN
Published: April 2019

Recent scientific findings on plant intelligence are forcing anthropologists to reconsider indigenous theories of plant vitality. In this article, the authors compare original ethnographic and ethnobotanical research among two different peoples from opposite extremes of lowland South America – the Makushi of Guyana and the Matsigenka of southern Peru – and explore how somatic experiences and the chemosensory properties of plants permeate indigenous understandings of the aetiology of illness and medical efficacy in both the cosmological and microbiological domains. The authors synthesize emerging theory in ecosemiotics, embodiment, plant personhood and plant intelligence with the concept of ‘sensory ecology’ to recast multispecies ethnography as a phytochemical as well as a philosophical endeavour.
Specific relevance instructions promote selective reading strategies: evidences from eye tracking and oral summaries
Authors: León José A. , Moreno José David , Escudero Inmaculada , Olmos Ricardo , Ruiz Marcos , Lorch Robert F.
Published: April 2019

Background

The present study analysed how relevance instructions affect eye movement patterns and the performance in a summary task of six expository texts.

Methods

Forty‐one undergraduate students participated in the experiment; half of them were instructed to make an oral summary of the main ideas focusing on the ‘why’ question that appeared at the end of the first paragraph (specific relevance instruction), while the other half were instructed to make an oral summary of the main ideas of the text (general relevance instruction).

Results

Eye movement patterns revealed that specific instructions promoted more and longer fixations and more regressions for relevant information than general instructions. A higher percentage of words in the summary task related to relevant information was recalled when readers received specific instructions.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that relevance instructions influence how readers enact strategies to meet their reading goals and how these strategies are reflected on memory.
Just Cognition: Scientific Research on Bias and Some Implications for Legal Procedure and Decision‐Making
Authors: Edmond Gary , Martire Kristy A.
Published: April 2019

Common law judges have traditionally been concerned about bias and the appearance of bias. Bias is believed to threaten the administration of justice and the legitimacy of legal decision‐making, particularly public confidence in the courts. This article contrasts legal approaches to bias with a range of biases, particularly cognitive biases, familiar to scientists who study human cognition and decision‐making. Research reveals that judges have narrowly conceived the biases that threaten legal decision‐making, insisting that some potential sources of bias are not open to review and that they are peculiarly resistant to bias through legal training and judicial experience. This article explains how, notwithstanding express concern with bias, there has been limited legal engagement with many risks known to actually bias decision‐making. Through examples, and drawing upon scientific research, it questions legal approaches and discusses the implications of more empirically‐based approaches to bias for decision making and institutional legitimacy.
4‐Dimensional computed tomography‐based ventilation and compliance images for quantification of radiation‐induced changes in pulmonary function
Authors: Sharifi Hoda , Brown Stephen , McDonald Gary C , Chetty Indrin J , Zhong Hualiang
Published: April 2019

Introduction

4‐Dimensional computed tomography (4DCT)‐based ventilation imaging is a promising technique for evaluating pulmonary function, but lung elasticity and mechanics are usually not part of the ventilation image analysis. In this study we demonstrate a 4DCT‐based imaging technique that can be used to calculate regional lung compliance changes after radiotherapy (RT).

Methods

Six lung cancer patients were included in this study. Four of the patients had 4DCT images acquired pre‐RT, 3 and 9 months post‐RT. Ventilation and compliance were calculated from the deformable image registration (DIR) of 4DCTs, performed from the end‐inhale to the end‐exhale breathing phase. Regional compliance was defined as the ratio of volumetric variation and associated stress in each voxel, representing lung elasticity and computed using a FEM‐based framework. Ventilation, compliance and CT density were calculated for all pre‐RT and post‐RT 4DCTs and evaluation metrics were computed.

Results

Average CT density changes were 13.6 ± 11.4HU after 3 months and 26.9 ± 15.8HU after 9 months. Ventilation was reduced at 3 months, but improved at 9 months in regions with dose ≥ 35 Gy, encompassing about 10% of the lung volume; compliance was reduced at both time‐points. Radiation dose ≥ 35 Gy caused major change in lung density and ventilation, which was higher than that previously reported in the literature (i.e. 24 Gy).

Conclusion

Lung tissue response is diverse with respect to CT density, ventilation and compliance. Combination of ventilation and compliance with CT density could be beneficial for understanding radiation‐induced lung damage and consequently could help develop improved treatment protocols for lung cancer patients.
Alteration in gene expression profiles of thymoma: Genetic differences and potential novel targets
Authors: Meng Fan‐Jie , Wang Shuo , Zhang Jun , Yan Yi‐Jie , Wang Chun‐Yang , Yang Chun‐Rui , Guan Zhi‐Yu , Wang Chang‐Li
Published: April 2019

Background

This study was conducted to investigate the gene expression profiles associated with thymoma to better understand the molecular mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of thymoma.

Methods

Eight patients with thymomas (type A, AB, B1, and B2) and four controls with thymic cysts were analyzed using microarray profiling to identify changes in gene expression.

Results

Across all of our samples, 2319 messenger RNAs were upregulated and 2776 were downregulated in thymomas relative to thymic cysts. Gene ontology and pathway analyses revealed that a large number of genes participate in cellular functions, among which MHC class II protein complex assembly, assembly with peptide antigen, calcium activated phosphatidylcholine scrambling, and release of cytoplasmic sequestered NF‐κB were dysregulated, whereas intestinal immune network for immunoglobulin A production, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, the calcium signaling pathway, and pathways related to autoimmune diseases were downregulated.

Conclusions

Our results revealed gene expression differences between thymomas and thymic cysts, and identified key candidate genes/pathways that might be used as diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic targets to treat cancer metastasis.
Accelerated aging and motor control deficits are related to regional deformation of central cerebellar white matter in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Zhao Qingyu , Pfefferbaum Adolf , Podhajsky Simon , Pohl Kilian M. , Sullivan Edith V.
Published: April 2019

The World Health Organization estimates a 12‐month prevalence rate of 8+% for an alcohol use disorder (AUD) diagnosis in people age 15 years and older in the United States and Europe, presenting significant health risks that have the potential of accelerating age‐related functional decline. According to neuropathological studies, white matter systems of the cerebellum are vulnerable to chronic alcohol dependence. To pursue the effect of AUD on white matter structure and functions in vivo, this study used T1‐weighted, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify the total corpus medullare of the cerebellum and a finely grained analysis of its surface in 135 men and women with AUD (mean duration of abstinence, 248 d) and 128 age‐ and sex‐matched control participants; subsets of these participants completed motor testing. We identified an AUD‐related volume deficit and accelerated aging in the total corpus medullare. Novel deformation‐based surface morphometry revealed regional shrinkage of surfaces adjacent to lobules I‐V, lobule IX, and vermian lobule X. In addition, accelerated aging was detected in the regional surface areas adjacent to lobules I‐V, lobule VI, lobule VIIB, and lobules VIII, IX, and X. Sex differences were not identified for any measure. For both volume‐based and surface‐based analyses, poorer performance in gait and balance, manual dexterity, and grip strength were linked to greater regional white matter structural deficits. Our results suggest that local deformation of the corpus medullare has the potential of identifying structurally and functionally segregated networks affected in AUD.
The role of radiotherapy in the management of non‐melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Garbutcheon‐Singh Kieran B , Veness Michael J
Published: April 2019

The global incidence of non‐melanoma skin cancer continues to increase as the global population ages with the highest incidence in the world occurring in Australian and New Zealand patients. There are numerous treatment options available for non‐melanoma skin cancer patients of which radiotherapy is an efficacious and versatile tissue preserving non‐surgical (or medical) option. In patients where excision may not be an option (medically/technically inoperable) or considered less ideal (e.g. cosmetic outcome), radiotherapy offers an excellent option. Following surgery, adjuvant radiotherapy in patients with unfavourable pathology can decrease the risk of recurrence and associated morbidity. Elderly and co‐morbid patients with poor performance status can benefit from short‐course hypofractionated radiotherapy in the setting where surgery is not an option. As with any modality, radiotherapy has advantages and disadvantages and it is therefore important for clinicians to appreciate these. We aim to present an update for clinicians that manage patients with non‐melanoma skin cancer on the role of radiotherapy.
Association of mineral content outside of bone with coronary artery calcium and 1‐year cardiovascular prognosis in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Xiong Yuqin , Li Jiameng , Sun Si , Han Mei , Liao Ruoxi , Li Yupei , Wang Liya , Lin Liping , Liu Qiang , Su Baihai
Published: April 2019

Coronary artery calcifications (CACs) are common among maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients and associated with increased morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular events. The insight into chronic kidney disease‐mineral and bone disorder (CKD‐MBD) established a correlation between dysregulated mineral metabolism and CACs. This study aimed to identify the association of mineral content outside of bone (MCOB) with CACs and cardiovascular events in MHD patients. In the pilot prospective study with no intervention, patients underwent body composition assessment by body composition monitor after hemodialysis and computed tomography examination using the Agatston scoring method simultaneously within a week. The primary end point included cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death. Correlations and receiver operating characteristic analysis elucidated the associations of MCOB with CACs; multivariate analysis assessed the cardiovascular risk for groups with different MCOB. One hundred three eligible patients with an average age of 48 (35‐63) years old were enrolled and followed up to 12 (11‐12.5) months, among which 52.4% had detectable CACs at baseline. MCOB showed an inverse correlation with Agatston score and significantly discriminated the patients with Agatston score > 0 (AUC = 0.737; P < 0.001) and 400 (AUC = 0.733; P < 0.001). MCOB ≤ 9.2657 mg/kg was an independent risk factor for CACs (OR = 4.853; P = 0.044) and strong predictor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (HR = 10.108; P = 0.042), as well as rehospitalization (HR = 2.689; P = 0.004). MCOB inversely correlated with the presence and extent of CACs, and could discriminate Agatston score > 0 and 400, which also presented as an independent indicator for CKD‐MBD and 1‐year cardiovascular prognosis in adult MHD patients. Additional studies are required for identifying this issue.
Urinary PGE2 metabolite levels in hospitalised infants with infections compared to age‐matched controls
Authors: Hamrin Johan , Perez‐Manzo Monica , Idborg Helena , Jakobsson Per‐Johan , Björk Lars , Eriksson Margareta , Nilsson Anna , Herlenius Eric
Published: April 2019

Aim

To determine the urinary tetranor‐prostaglandin E2 metabolite in healthy infants and in hospitalised infants with upper and lower respiratory tract as well as gastrointestinal infections.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study to determine baseline concentrations of urinary tetranor‐prostaglandin E2 metabolite was conducted in 81 healthy infants aged one week to one year and in 142 hospitalised infants with infections. Prostaglandin metabolite levels were measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

In healthy infants, urinary prostaglandin E2 metabolite levels decreased with age and did not differ between girls and boys. Infections of the lower respiratory (n = 78) and gastrointestinal tract (n = 12) correlated with increased levels of the prostaglandin E2 metabolite. In contrast, infants hospitalised with upper respiratory tract infections (n = 23) exhibited similar levels as healthy, age‐matched controls. Lower prostaglandin E2 levels were found after treatment with acetaminophen in hospitalised children. Prostaglandin E2 metabolite levels did not correlate with length of hospitalisation or need for respiratory support.

Conclusion

This study first provides normal levels of urinary prostaglandin E2 metabolite in infants and secondly demonstrates elevated levels in hospitalised children with lower respiratory tract and gastrointestinal infections.
Severe and protracted cholestasis in 44 young men taking bodybuilding supplements: assessment of genetic, clinical and chemical risk factors
Authors: Stolz Andrew , Navarro Victor , Hayashi Paul H. , Fontana Robert J. , Barnhart Huiman X. , Gu Jiezhun , Chalasani Naga P. , Vega Maricruz M. , Bonkovsky Herbert L. , Seeff Leonard B. , Serrano Jose , Avula Bharathi , Khan Ikhlas A. , Cirulli Elizabeth T. , Kleiner David E. , Hoofnagle Jay H. ,   the DILIN Investigators
Published: April 2019

Background

Bodybuilding supplements can cause a profound cholestatic syndrome.

Aim

To describe the drug‐Induced liver injury network's experience with liver injury due to bodybuilding supplements.

Methods

Liver injury pattern, severity and outcomes, potential genetic associations, and exposure to anabolic steroids by product analysis were analysed in prospectively enrolled subjects with bodybuilding supplement‐induced liver injury with causality scores of probable or higher.

Results

Forty‐four males (mean age 33 years) developed liver injury with a median latency of 73 days. Forty‐one per cent presented with hepatocellular pattern of liver injury as defined by the R > 5 ([Fold elevation of ALT] ÷ [Fold elevation of Alk Phos] (mean, range = 6.4, 0.5‐31.4, n = 42) despite all presenting with clinical features of cholestatic liver injury (100% with jaundice and 84% with pruritus). Liver biopsy (59% of subjects) demonstrated a mild hepatitis and profound cholestasis in most without bile duct injury, loss or fibrosis. Seventy‐one per cent were hospitalised, and none died or required liver transplantation. In some, chemical analysis revealed anabolic steroid controlled substances not listed on the label. No enrichment of genetic variants associated with cholestatic syndromes was found, although mutations in ABCB11 (present in up to 20%) were significantly different than in ethnically matched controls.

Conclusions

Patients with bodybuilding supplements liver injury uniformly presented with cholestatic injury, which slowly resolved. The ingested products often contained anabolic steroids not identified on the label, and no enrichment in genetic variants was found, indicating a need for additional studies.
Lessons learned from a single‐surgeon series of paediatric robot‐assisted laparoscopic urological procedures: predictors of high‐grade postoperative complications
Authors: Barashi Nimrod S. , Andolfi Ciro , Wallace Aaron , Rodriguez Maria V. , Schadler Eric , Gundeti Mohan S.
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To describe postoperative complications after robot‐assisted laparoscopic urological surgery in children, and identify potential predictors of these complications by analysing the outcomes of a large‐volume single‐surgeon experience.

Patients and Methods

We reviewed our institutional database to identify all robot‐assisted laparoscopy (RAL) cases performed between December 2007 and December 2017. Patients were grouped into three cohorts based on the anatomical location of the procedure: upper urinary tract (kidney and renal pelvis); lower urinary tract (ureter); and lower urinary tract reconstruction with bowel (bladder reconstruction). A descriptive analysis of baseline characteristics, intra‐operative variables and postoperative outcomes was carried out. All complications were graded using the Clavien–Dindo scale, and grouped based on type and time of occurrence (<30, 30–90, >90 days). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of high‐grade complications (Clavien–Dindo grade ≥ III). We also measured complication rates based on year of surgery and surgical caseload.

Results

Our database included a total of 326 patients, of whom 57% (n = 186) underwent upper urinary tract procedures, 30% (n = 97) ureteric procedures, and 13% bladder reconstruction. The median follow‐up for each procedure was 13, 11 and 57 months, respectively. Of the total, 10 cases were converted to an open approach and excluded from further analysis. The most common types of complication in all groups were infections (urinary tract infections) and urinary complications (urine leaks and urolithiasis). Bladder reconstructive procedures, which require the use of bowel, presented the highest rate of high‐grade complications (32%). Length of hospital stay (LOS; odds ratio [OR] 1.33, confidence interval [CI] 1.16–1.53), estimated blood loss (EBL) in surgery (OR 1.01, CI 1.002–1.019) and operating time (OR 1.004, CI 1.002–1.006) were all associated with increased odds of high‐grade complications on multivariate analysis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In this single‐surgeon series, we have described the most commonly encountered complications after RAL in paediatric urology, finding rates similar to the complication rates reported in the current literature on other surgical approaches. In addition, LOS, operating time and EBL, which are probable surrogates of case complexity, were associated with increased odds of high‐grade complications.
Coping with different types of innovation: What do metaphors reveal about how entrepreneurs describe the innovation process?
Authors: Bruni Elena , Bonesso Sara , Gerli Fabrizio
Published: April 2019

Entrepreneurs play a central role in generating and adopting both technological and non‐technological innovations. However, existing research provides little guidance on how entrepreneurs interpret their endeavours to generate and implement different types of innovation. This paper addresses this void by bringing metaphor analysis into the field of innovation. We argue that the role of figurative language is important in describing the complexity that characterizes the innovation process. Examining qualitative data from episodes of innovation narrated by a sample of Italian entrepreneurs, this paper provides insights into how each type of innovation (product, marketing, process, organizational and strategic) is described differently, through the use of metaphorical language. This research advances the literature by providing a conceptualization of the different metaphor themes entrepreneurs ascribe to each type of innovation, and discusses practical implications for how the metaphorical language can be analysed and interpreted so that the innovation process can be improved.