bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commonalities in stream connectivity restoration alternatives: an attempt to simplify barrier removal optimization
Authors: McManamay Ryan A. , Perkin Joshuah S. , Jager Henriette I.
Published: February 2019

Movement within stream corridors is a basic life history requirement of many aquatic organisms. Barrier removal in streams has become a common practice in the United States aimed to restore organism dispersal and meet conservation objectives; however, there are social and economic costs to the removal of barriers. Accordingly, tools to prioritize barrier removal, particularly optimization techniques, can be used to evaluate cost‐benefit trade‐offs. Many of these techniques, however, require programming experience and are not available to natural resource managers. Furthermore, conservation objectives vary considerably depending on the life histories of organisms under consideration, and these opposing objectives, in conjunction with variant socioeconomic costs, will influence optimization solutions, specifically which barriers to remove. To promote the use of optimization tools, straightforward and open‐access platforms are needed to support use by managers, while also providing general approaches for holistic basin‐scale connectivity restoration. Herein, we use two case studies, White Oak Creek (small watershed) and the Roanoke River Basin (large basin), to explore the divergent outcomes stemming from different conservation objectives and socioeconomic costs used to prioritize barrier removal. We conducted optimization modeling using a widely accessible platform along with an open‐access solver plug‐in to support a wide variety of conservation objectives. We used simple approaches to find commonalities in barriers identified for removal among divergent conservation objectives and provide alternative (i.e., hybrid removal‐passage) strategies for approaching habitat restoration for diverse aquatic communities while increasing social benefits (i.e., hydropower energy). As expected, different conservation objectives aimed to support varied species life histories (e.g., diadromy, large‐river vs. small‐river potamodromy) have very different effects on optimization solutions. In both case studies, however, commonalities in solutions were identified through clustering groups of barriers into general connectivity restoration strategies. Furthermore, strategy types for a given barrier could be predicted with ≥72% accuracy using only four metrics. This suggests that optimization results can be simplified into general standards to support adoption of sustainable basin connectivity criteria strategies. Our framework provides a flexible and open‐access approach to conduct relatively complex optimization modeling for stream barrier prioritization, while examining potential for agreement among divergence conservation objectives.
Temperature influences resource use by chestnut‐bellied scaled quail
Authors: Kline Holley N. , Fulbright Timothy E. , Grahmann Eric D. , Hernández Fidel , Wester David B. , Brennan Leonard A. , Hehman Michael W.
Published: February 2019

Animals use physiological and behavioral adaptations to maintain constant body temperatures when environmental temperatures are outside of their thermoneutral zone. We define the temperature suitability bounds as the range of temperatures above and below which animals avoid locations because of unfavorable thermal conditions. Temperatures outside the temperature suitability bounds may trigger behavioral responses such as movement to cooler locations. We tested the hypothesis that temperature during late April to August influences resource selection using chestnut‐bellied scaled quail (Callipepla squamata castanogastris) as our study species. We estimated temperature suitability bounds for scaled quail and tested the prediction that ground surface temperature is a better predictor of habitat space use than black globe temperature. We compared models containing ground surface temperature and woody vegetation structure variables to test the hypothesis that including woody vegetation variables improves prediction of relative probability of use. We trapped scaled quail at five different locations in southern Texas. We located quail fitted with necklace‐style transmitters three times/week during 2013–2014. We measured ground surface and black globe temperatures at locations used by scaled quail and at random locations. We estimated percent canopy cover of cacti, subshrubs, and woody plants using 20 × 50 cm Daubenmire frames at each used and random location. We also estimated height and vertical obstruction of woody vegetation. Temperature suitability bounds of scaled were 24–43°C for the ground surface and 23–39°C for black globes. Ground surface temperature was a better predictor of relative probability of use than black globe temperature. Ground surface temperature during the warmest time of day (early afternoon, 13:30–17:29) decreased with increasing vertical obstruction after accounting for the influence of other structural variables. The best model for predicting relative probability of use by scaled quail during the warmest time of day included ground surface temperature and vertical obstruction. Use of microsites where vegetation structure is conducive to cooler temperatures is an important driver of resource selection by scaled quail during the warmest time of day in southern Texas, but availability of thermal refugia appears to be limited.
Habitat configuration matters when evaluating habitat‐area effects on host–parasitoid interactions
Authors: With Kimberly A. , Pavuk Daniel M.
Published: February 2019

Higher trophic levels tend to be more sensitive to habitat fragmentation than lower trophic levels, which is why parasitism rates should decline in fragmented landscapes. Habitat loss and fragmentation (the subdivision of habitat) are typically interrelated processes, and thus, their effects are confounded in most studies. To address this, we quantified parasitism rates in pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum) within an experimental model landscape system, in which we independently controlled the amount vs. the fragmentation of habitat (red clover, Trifolium pratense) within individual landscape plots (16 × 16 m). Aphid densities were generally unaffected by landscape pattern, except at the local scale for interior habitat cells within fragmented landscapes, which had significantly lower aphid densities than all other cell types. Aphid parasitism rates averaged about 40% and were significantly—albeit weakly—correlated with aphid density. Habitat amount had the greatest overall effect on parasitism rates, but fragmentation effects were evident in a shift in parasitism at intermediate habitat levels: Parasitism rates were higher in fragmented landscapes with <50% habitat, but higher in clumped landscapes with >50% habitat. Edge effects alone did not explain this shift in parasitism rates. Parasitism rates were uniformly high within edge habitat and fragmented landscapes, and thus, the shift in parasitism at intermediate habitat levels was driven by increasing parasitism rates within interior cells and clumped landscapes at higher habitat amounts. Habitat configuration is thus important for evaluating habitat‐area effects on species interactions, as habitat amount only affected parasitism rates within less‐fragmented landscapes in this system.
Heart rate variability in type 2 diabetic subjects randomized to liraglutide or glimepiride treatment, both in combination with metformin: A randomized, open, parallel‐group study
Authors: Nyström Thomas , Santos‐Pardo Irene , Fang Xin , Cao Yang , Hedberg Fredric , Jendle Johan
Published: February 2019

Aims

Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) and increased heart rate (HR) are associated with cardiovascular (CV) mortality. In the Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes outcome trial, it was demonstrated a lower rate of CV events in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients treated with liraglutide compared to placebo. We aimed to investigate the effects of liraglutide compared with glimepiride treatment in T2D patients on the CV risk parameters HR and HRV.

Methods

This was a post hoc study whereas sixty‐two T2D individuals (45 males) were randomized to once daily 1.8 mg liraglutide or once daily 4 mg glimepiride, both in combination with 1 g metformin. HR and measurement of sympathetic activity, that is standard deviation (SD) of beat‐to‐beat (NN) intervals (SDNN), was assessed by 24‐hour Holter monitoring system. Parasympathetic activity was analysed by root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) in NN intervals and high‐frequency (HF), low‐frequency (LF) and very low‐frequency power.

Results

Baseline clinical characteristics for liraglutide (n = 33) and glimepiride (n = 29) groups were well matched. There was a persistent increase in diurnal HR followed by a significantly increased HR at daytime 5.4 beats per minute, P = 0.011 in the liraglutide‐treated group. There was no treatment change between groups in SDNN and RMSSD, or in HF and LF frequency power analysis.

Conclusions

Liraglutide treatment increased diurnal variation in hourly mean HR followed by an increase in mean daytime HR, independently of changes in sympathetic or parasympathetic activity.
Protection from EAE in DOCK8 mutant mice occurs despite increased Th17 cell frequencies in the periphery
Authors: Wilson Alicia S. , Law Hsei Di , Knobbe‐Thomsen Christiane B. , Kearney Conor J. , Oliaro Jane , Binsfeld Carole , Burgio Gaetan , Starrs Lora , Brenner Dirk , Randall Katrina L. , Brüstle Anne
Published: February 2019

Mutation of Dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8) has previously been reported to provide resistance to the Th17 cell dependent EAE in mice. Contrary to expectation, we observed an elevation of Th17 cells in two different DOCK8 mutant mouse strains in the steady state. This was specific for Th17 cells with no change in Th1 or Th2 cell populations. In vitro Th cell differentiation assays revealed that the elevated Th17 cell population was not due to a T cell intrinsic differentiation bias. Challenging these mutant mice in the EAE model, we confirmed a resistance to this autoimmune disease with Th17 cells remaining elevated systemically while cellular infiltration in the CNS was reduced. Infiltrating T cells lost the bias toward Th17 cells indicating a relative reduction of Th17 cells in the CNS and a Th17 cell specific migration disadvantage. Adoptive transfers of Th1 and Th17 cells in EAE‐affected mice further supported the Th17 cell‐specific migration defect, however, DOCK8‐deficient Th17 cells expressed normal Th17 cell‐specific CCR6 levels and migrated toward chemokine gradients in transwell assays. This study shows that resistance to EAE in DOCK8 mutant mice is achieved despite a systemic Th17 bias.
Effect of “edible clay” (takere) suspension on serum lipid profiles and atherogenic indices of normal Wistar rats
Authors: Ikewuchi Catherine C. , Ikewuchi Jude C. , Ezeka Ugochukwu K. , Ifeanacho Mercy O.
Published: February 2019

This study was undertaken to ascertain the effect of an aqueous suspension of a commonly available preparation of edible clay (“takere”) on serum lipid profiles and atherogenic indices of normal Wistar rats. Ninety‐five adult Wistar rats of average weight of 100 g were assigned into seven groups. Group 1 (Baseline) was immediately sacrificed at the commencement of study; Group 2 (Control) daily received distilled water, orally; and Groups 3 to 7 received via the same route (per body weight), 125 mg/kg (T125), 250 mg/kg (T250), 500 mg/kg (T500), 1,000 mg/kg (T1000), and 2,000 mg/kg (T2000) of the takere suspension, respectively, for 28 days. In week 1, the treatments significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the levels of serum triglyceride (by T250, T1000, and T2000), VLDL cholesterol (by T250, T1000, and T2000), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP; by T250) and significantly (p < 0.05) raised the levels of serum HDL (T250), LDL (T250 and T2000), non‐HDL (T2000) cholesterols, atherogenic coefficient (AC; T2000), cardiac risk ratio (CRR; T2000), and Castelli's risk index II (CRI‐II; T2000) of the rats. In week 2, the treatments significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the levels of serum triglyceride (T2000), HDL (T125, T500, T1000, and T2000), VLDL (T2000) cholesterols and significantly (p < 0.05) raised levels of serum LDL (T125, T1000, and T2000), non‐HDL (T125, T1000, and T2000) cholesterols, AC (T125, T500, and T1000), CRR (T125, T500, and T1000), CRI‐II (T125 and T1000), AIP (T125, T500, and T1000) of the rats. In week 4, the treatments significantly (p < 0.05) raised the levels of serum total (T500 and T2000), HDL (T2000), non‐HDL (T500 and T1000) cholesterols, AC (T500), CRR (T500), and CRI‐II (T500). This result indicates that the consumption of takere suspension may have adverse effects on serum lipid profiles and atherogenic indices of Wistar rats, at least at the doses administered in this study.
Relationship quality and sense of coherence in dementia: Results of a European cohort study
Authors: Marques Maria J. , Woods Bob , Hopper Louise , Jelley Hannah , Irving Kate , Kerpershoek Liselot , Meyer Gabriele , Bieber Anja , Stephan Astrid , Sköldunger Anders , Sjölund Britt‐Marie , Selbaek Geir , Rosvik Janne , Zanetti Orazio , Portolani Elisa , de Vugt Marjolein , Verhey Frans , Gonçalves‐Pereira Manuel ,   on behalf of the Actifcare Consortium
Published: February 2019

Objective

Quality of life of people with dementia and their family carers is strongly influenced by interpersonal issues and personal resources. In this context, relationship quality (RQ) and sense of coherence (SOC) potentially protect and promote health. We aimed to identify what influences RQ in dyads of people with dementia and their carers and to examine differences in their perspectives.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were used from the Actifcare cohort study of 451 community‐dwelling people with dementia and their primary carers in eight European countries. Comprehensive assessments included the Positive Affect Index (RQ) and the Orientation to Life Questionnaire (SOC).

Results

Regression analyses revealed that RQ as perceived by people with dementia was associated with carer education, stress, and spouse caregiving. RQ as perceived by carers was associated with carer stress, depression, being a spouse, social support, reported neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia, and carer SOC. Neuropsychiatric symptoms and carer stress contributed to discrepancies in RQ ratings within the dyad. The only factor associated with both individual RQ ratings and discrepancies was carer stress (negative feelings subscore). No significant differences in the overall perception of RQ were evident between spouses and adult children carers, but RQ determinants differed between the two.

Conclusions

In this European sample, carer SOC was associated with carer‐reported RQ. RQ determinants differed according to the perspective considered (person with dementia or carer) and carer subgroup. A deeper understanding of RQ and its determinants will help to tailor interventions that address these distinct perspectives and potentially improve dementia outcomes.
Liquidation with nonlinear float‐dependent price impact
Authors: Guasoni Paolo , Sanjari Ali
Published: February 2019

This paper solves the infinite‐horizon optimal liquidation problem in a market with float‐dependent, nonlinear temporary price impact. The investor's value function and optimal strategy are identified as the unique classical solutions of nonlinear parabolic partial differential equations. Depending on the price impact parameters, liquidation may require finite or infinite time.
Administrators, health service providers, and consumers perspectives of functions of district health‐care systems in Oromia region, Ethiopia: A qualitative study
Authors: Yesuf Elias Ali , Grill Eva , Fröschl Günter , Koller Daniela , Haile‐Mariam Damen
Published: February 2019

The practice of functions of district health‐care systems in Ethiopia is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the perspectives of administrators, health service providers, and health‐care consumers regarding functions of district health‐care systems as currently practiced.

Grounded theory approach was applied using interviews and desk review of documents. This study was set up in Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia. Inductive analysis of interviews was done. Interviews and document reviews were mirrored.

Eleven functions of district health‐care systems emerged in this study organized by level with relationships and commonality of few activities. The 11 functions of district health‐care systems were creating capacity of health centers and health professionals for the provision of health care; creating access for the provision of health care; ensuring equitable access to health care; regulation of private health‐care providers; disaster preparedness; monitoring risk factors and diseases in the district; provision of health promotive, preventive, and curative health care for communicable diseases and maternal health conditions; monitoring intermediate outcomes of care; developing capacity of health post and villagers toward demand creation for health care; provision of maternal and child health services; and helping health posts in reaching mothers and sick individuals.
ICT solutions for the informal sector in developing economies: What can one expect?
Authors: Bhattacharya Rajesh
Published: February 2019

In the dominant policy discourses, the informal sector is often treated as composed of millions of entrepreneurs who are stuck at small scales of business with low levels of productivity and incomes because of market imperfections, institutional rigidities, or regulatory bias. Technological inclusion is often considered a solution to the problem of institutional exclusion that the informal business owners face. Such policies are often based on the assumption that informal business owners behave like entrepreneurs. However, there is also an alternative view that informal business owners are forced to run businesses on their own account because they cannot find decent jobs in the formal or organized modern sector. Their skills and attitudes towards risk are very different from what we associate with entrepreneurs. Technology solutions in general—and information and communication technology (ICT) solutions in particular—are more likely to be effective in their developmental objectives, if a more nuanced and disaggregated view of the informal economy is adopted.
Preptin promotes proliferation and osteogenesis of MC3T3‐E1 cells by upregulating β‐catenin expression
Authors: Xiao Chunyuan , Li Wei , Lu Tianlin , Wang Jiayi , Han Jie
Published: February 2019

Preptin, an oligopeptide secreted by pancreatic β‐cell, plays a significant role in glycometabolism and bone metabolism. Preptin strengthens proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, but the mechanism is unclear. Here, we explored the role of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway which is well known to affect bone development and remodelling in the function of preptin. We found that preptin promoted the cell proliferative activity and osteoblastic differentiation in osteoblast‐like MC3T3‐E1 cells in a dose‐independent manner, as evidenced by elevation in osteogenic genes, alkaline phosphatase activity and alizarin red staining in a dose‐independent manner. Additionally, our findings demonstrated that the β‐catenin expression level and runt‐related transcription factor 2, which is the key downstream target of this pathway, were increased. The Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway antagonist DKK1 abrogated the proliferative effect and differentiation function of preptin in MC3T3‐E1 cells. These data indicated that preptin may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of osteoporosis and that osteogenic impact of preptin in MC3T3‐E1 cells might be mediated by the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 9999(9999):1–9, 2019
Reliability of Annual Changes and Monitoring Time Intervals for Bone Strength, Size, Density, and Microarchitectural Development at the Distal Radius and Tibia in Children: A 1-Year HR-pQCT Follow-Up
Authors: Bunyamin Amy , Björkman Kelsey , Kawalilak Chantal , Hosseinitabatabaei Seyedmahdi , Teare Adrian , Johnston James , Kontulainen Saija
Published: February 2019

High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) imaging, together with computational finite element analysis (FEA), offers an attractive, noninvasive tool to quantify bone strength development in pediatric studies. Evidence of annual changes and errors in repeated HR-pQCT measures is limited, and time intervals required to reliably capture changes in children's bone strength or microarchitecture have not yet been defined. Our objectives were: (1) to quantify annual changes in bone strength and microarchitectural properties; (2) to define precision errors for pediatric bone strength outcomes; (3) to characterize annual changes in contrast to pediatric precision errors; and (4) to estimate monitoring time intervals (MTIs) required to reliably characterize bone development at the distal radius and tibia. We obtained distal radius (7% of ulnar length) and tibia (8%) bone properties using HR-pQCT and FEA from 38 follow-up study participants (21 girls) at baseline (mean age 10.6 years, SD 1.7 years) and after 1 year; and from 32 precision study participants (16 girls) at baseline (mean age 11.3 years, SD 1.6 years) and after 1 week. We characterized mean annual changes (paired t tests) contrasted to pediatric precision errors (CV%RMS) and estimated MTIs. Annual increases in bone strength, total area, cortical thickness, and density ranged between 3.0% and 25.3% and 2.4% and 15.6% at the distal radius and tibia, respectively. Precision errors for all bone strength outcomes were ≤6.8% and ≤5.1% at the distal radius and tibia, respectively, and appeared lower than annual gains in bone strength at both sites. Cortical porosity decreased 19.6% at the distal radius and 6.6% at the distal tibia; these changes exceeded respective precision errors, indicating cortical bone consolidation. MTIs ranged between 0.5 years and infinity at the distal radius and 0.5 and 5.9 years at the distal tibia. Estimated MTIs suggest that pediatric bone strength, cortical bone density, and porosity development can be reliably monitored with annual measurements. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bioinspired synthesis of nanofibers on monolithic scaffolds for enzyme immobilization with enhanced loading capacity and activity recovery
Authors: Li Weiran , Shi Jiafu , Zhao Yang , Tian Yu , Huo Qian , Wu Yizhou , Zhang Shaohua , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

The enzymatic process in continuous flow reactors has become attractive owing to the merits of in‐line purification, improved mixing and mass transfer, etc. However, the construction of continuous flow reactors requires stable and surface‐active monolithic scaffolds for enzyme immobilization.

RESULTS

In this study, nanofibers of linear polyethyleneimine (LPEI) are formed on the surface of poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (PSS)‐treated cordierite honeycomb (named LPEI/PSS cordierite‐H) as monolithic scaffold for enzyme immobilization. The controlled self‐assembly of LPEI ensures the formation of nanofibers (diameters of 20–80 nm) on the surface of cordierite‐H, which roughens the surface and offers many active sites for enzyme loading. The electrostatic interaction between negatively charged enzyme and positively charged LPEI helps the enzyme firmly attach on the surface. The loading capacity of LPEI/PSS cordierite‐H was 1.24 mg g−1. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP)‐loaded LPEI/PSS cordierite‐H (HRP@LPEI/PSS cordierite‐H) exhibited activity recovery of 55.33%, 2‐fold higher than that of HRP‐loaded branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI)/PSS cordierite‐H (HRP@BPEI/PSS cordierite‐H) (23.72%). Furthermore, a silica layer was formed on the surface of HRP@LPEI/PSS cordierite‐H through LPEI‐induced silicification, which could prevent the enzyme from deactivation under extreme conditions.

CONCLUSION

These monolithic biocatalysts have great potential for applications in wastewater treatment and even in other fields such as pharmaceutical synthesis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Abnormal lung ultrasound pattern during labor: A prospective cohort pilot study
Authors: Krawczyk Paweł , Jastrzębska Agnieszka , Sałapa Kinga , Szczeklik Wojciech , Andres Janusz
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Lung ultrasound (LUS) examination is used to evaluate patients with acute respiratory failure. The physiological LUS pattern during labor in healthy parturients has not been well described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the LUS pattern in a cohort of healthy women during uncomplicated labor.

Methods

We used the 8‐point LUS assessment protocol and investigated lung sliding, A‐lines, B‐lines, interstitial syndrome, lung consolidation, and pleural effusion according to the International Consensus Document with two additional supradiaphragmatic projections. All patients were screened twice; once during the first stage of labor and again within 2 hours after delivery.

Results

We included 24 patients in this study from February 2014 to August 2015. A total of 480 LUS records were retained for further analysis. Overall, 16 of 24 patients (67%) had at least one positive region (three or more B‐lines) during the peridelivery LUS evaluation. Interstitial syndrome was detected in five patients (21%). There were no differences in A‐line (P = 0.38) or B‐line (P = 0.68) prevalence between LUS examinations before and after delivery.

Conclusions

Women in uncomplicated labor can present abnormal LUS findings, which may affect the interpretation of LUS results in patients with respiratory deterioration. Further studies should address this topic in larger cohort of patients.
Quantification of punicalagins in commercial preparations and pomegranate cultivars, by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Mathon Caroline , Chater John M , Green Andrew , Merhaut Donald J , Mauk Peggy A , Preece John E , Larive Cynthia K
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) – a delicious fruit once used in Ayurvedic medicine – is now largely known for the antioxidant properties of its juice, which has also been considered to have health benefits against diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. These beneficial effects are associated with the fruit's high content of polyphenolic compounds. High demand and lower production levels drive pomegranate prices up, which leads to the possibility of pomegranate products being adulterated, diluted or substituted. To ensure the presence of pomegranate in various preparations labeled as containing pomegranate, a simple method was developed to screen and quantify the specific punicalagins by mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

The present method was used to analyze several pure and mixed beverages from the US market, and also to quantify punicalagins in the juice of 14 pomegranate cultivars. Punicalagins were detected in all cultivars, with higher concentrations in whole fruit juices compared with aril juices. Amongst the 20 commercial beverages, punicalagins were not detected in four preparations.

CONCLUSION

The liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometric method presented herein enables an easy and rapid quantification of the specific punicalagins. The latter was detected in all cultivar samples, thus supporting that punicalagin is a suitable marker of these 14 pomegranate cultivars in commercial juices. Absence of the specific marker in four commercial preparations shows the necessity of having simple and rapid methods to evaluate the presence of pomegranate in preparations. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Motivating stakeholder collaboration within the aerial adventure industry
Authors: Hansen Marcus , Fyall Alan , Spyriadis Thanasis , Rogers Dinah , Brander‐Brown Jackie
Published: February 2019

The aim of this exploratory study is to address motivations behind the formation of stakeholder collaborations within the U.S. aerial adventure industry as it seeks to improve risk management procedures and, in turn, reduce the number of accidents. The aerial adventure industry is faced with a conundrum in a bid to sustain its long‐term sustainability: How does it create an exciting and thrilling yet ultimately safe activity? The main contribution can be found in the creation of the relational resource dependency theory, a reflection of the key motivational factors behind stakeholder collaboration within the U.S. aerial adventure industry. The authors call for leadership within the industry to motivate industry‐wide collaboration.
Bioactive and Biocompatible Macroporous Scaffolds with Tunable Performances Prepared Based on 3D Printing of the Pre‐Crosslinked Sodium Alginate/Hydroxyapatite Hydrogel Ink
Authors: Liu Shuifeng , Hu Yang , Zhang Jiancheng , Bao Siqi , Xian Lin , Dong Xianming , Zheng Wenxu , Li Yiheng , Gao Huichang , Zhou Wuyi
Published: February 2019

Bioactive and biocompatible porous scaffold materials with adjustable pore structures and drug delivery capability are one of the key elements in bone tissue engineering. In this work, bioactive and biocompatible sodium alginate (SA)/hydroxyapatite (HAP) macroporous scaffolds are facilely and effectively fabricated based on 3D printing of the pre‐crosslinked SA/HAP hydrogels followed by further crosslinking to improve the mechanical properties of scaffolds. The pore structures and porosity (>80%) of the porous scaffolds can be readily tailored by varying the formation conditions. Furthermore, the in vitro biomineralization tests show that the bioactivity of the porous scaffolds is effectively enhanced by the addition of HAP nanoparticles into the scaffold matrix. Furthermore, the anti‐inflammatory drug curcumin is loaded into the porous scaffolds and the in vitro release study shows the sustainable drug release function of the porous scaffolds. Moreover, mouse bone mesenchymal stem cells (mBMSCs) are cultured on the porous scaffolds, and the results of the in vitro biocompatibility experiment show that the mBMSCs can be adhered well on the porous scaffolds. All of the results suggest that the bioactive and biocompatible SA/HAP porous scaffolds have great application potential in bone tissue engineering.
Willingness to compete: Between‐ and within‐gender comparisons
Authors: Jung SeEun , Vranceanu Radu
Published: February 2019

This paper introduces a new instrument to elicit individual willingness to compete (WTC). Experimental data corroborate the standard result according to which the average WTC of men is higher than the average WTC of women. However, our WTC measure reveals significant within‐gender heterogeneity: 10% of women are extremely competitive, and 13% of men are extremely averse to competition. Gender differences in WTC persist after controlling for ability, self‐confidence, tolerance for risk, and the gender of the partner.
Association betweenIL‐4tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms and the risk of lung cancer in China
Authors: Tan Nan , Song Jiangjiang , Yan Mengdan , Wu Jiamin , Sun Yao , Xiong Zichao , Ding Yipeng
Published: February 2019

Background

In China, lung cancer is also the most commonly diagnosed cancer with a lower 5‐year survival rate, leading to high social burdens. Recently, many studies highlighted the importance of inflammation in the initiation and progression of cancer. The goal of this study was to investigate the association betweeninterleukin‐4(IL‐4, OMIM#147780) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and lung cancer susceptibility.

Methods

A case‐control study was conducted in a Chinese population including 199 male patients with lung cancer and 266 healthy men. Six SNPs selected from the HapMap database were genotyped using Agena MassARRAY. Genetic models and haplotype analyses were utilized to evaluate the association between SNPs and lung cancer risk.

Results

In our findings, rs2243250 was associated with a decreased lung cancer risk under the log‐additive model (odds ratio, OR = 0.71, 95% confidence interval, CI = 0.51–0.97,p = 0.030), and the G/G genotype of rs2227284 conferred a negative effect; the risk of lung cancer under the codominant (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.04–0.87,p = 0.040) and recessive models (OR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.04–0.88,p = 0.012) after adjusted by age.

Conclusions

These data indicated potential associations betweenIL‐4polymorphisms and lung cancer susceptibility. That may help to improve the understanding of the relationship between inflammation and lung cancer in the future.
Red and White Wine Lees Show Inhibitory Effects on Liver Carcinogenesis
Authors: Fernández‐Bedmar Zahira , Anter Jaouad , Alonso‐Moraga Angeles , Delgado de la Torre Pilar , Luque de Castro María Dolores , Millán‐Ruiz Yolanda , Sánchez‐Frías Marina , Guil‐Luna Silvia
Published: February 2019

Scope

Wine has shown anticarcinogenic benefits in hepatocarcinoma and polyphenols seem to be responsible for these effects. Wine lees are the sediments produced during fermentation and they endow wine with organoleptic and physicochemical properties. However, the anticarcinogenic role of these compounds is still unknown. Thus, the purpose of this work is to determine the phytochemical profiles of wine lees and then to analyze their anticarcinogenic effect and DNA methylation on a model of hepatocarcinogenesis.

Methods and results

The phytochemical composition of lees is determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method and high‐performance liquid chromatography. An in vivo study using a diethyl nitrosamine‐hepatocarcinogenesis‐induced model is performed to investigate the hepatoprotective properties of different doses of wine lees. For the DNA methylation analysis, a bisulfite‐based method is used. Both types of lees mostly contain pyrogallol, gallic, and syringic acid with a high content of catechins in red lees. The carcinogen hypermethylates the Alu‐M2 repetitive sequence and white lees decreases the hypermethylation at all tested concentrations. Low concentration of red and white lees and high concentration of white lees significantly improve the hepatocellular architecture and decrease the mitotic index in the murine model.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that wine lees are promising agents for chemoprevention of hepatocarcinoma.
Density effects of silica aerogel insulation on the performance of a graphite probe calorimeter
Authors: Bancheri Julien , Seuntjens Jan , Sarfehnia Arman , Renaud James
Published: February 2019

Purpose

With the introduction of a novel graphite probe calorimeter, called the Aerrow, various thermal insulating materials are being explored to further improve the device. Silica‐based aerogels are proving to be an optimal material due to their low densities, small thermal conductivities, rigidity, and machinability. The aim of this work is to determine how various silica aerogel densities affect the Aerrow’s performance.

Methods

Performance concerns three areas: heat transfer from the core, the Aerrow’s beam quality dependence, and the effects of an applied magnetic field on its measurement of absorbed dose to water. A numerical heat transfer study was done to determine heat transfer time constants. The EGSnrc radiation transport toolkit was used to determine absorbed dose conversion factors which are used to quantify the Aerrow’s beam quality dependence. Dose conversion factors for Cobalt‐60 and two clinical photon beams (6 and 10 MV) were determined. Magnetic field perturbation factors are used to characterize the Aerrow’s performance under an applied magnetic field. EGSnrc with the magnetic field transport algorithm was used to determine these perturbations for a 1.5 T MR‐linac. Several aerogel densities (0.01–0.55 g ) were examined for each performance area.

Results

Heat transfer time constants were found to vary from 52 ± 2 to 117.4 ± 0.4 s. The time constants decreased with increasing aerogel density. The Aerrow’s beam quality dependence varied between 0.5% and 1%, decreasing with increasing aerogel density. Beam quality dependence was determined in the range of Co to 10 MV (58.4%  ≤   ≤ 73.5%). Under an applied magnetic field, perturbations were smallest when the Aerrow was parallel to the field. Perturbations varied more so when the Aerrow was perpendicular to the magnetic field and increased with increasing aerogel density. In all cases, perturbations were less than 0.6% from unity with a relative uncertainty of 0.1%.

Conclusion

Silica‐based aerogels demonstrate an improved performance over thermal insulation used in previous iterations of the Aerrow. With it, the Aerrow has shown to be robust in several areas. If heat transfer can be properly corrected for in the dose determination and the parallel orientation is used under a magnetic field, then the high density aerogel is possibly more preferable.
Factors associated with physical activity engagement among adults with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tan Xiang Li , Pugh Gemma , Humby Frances , Morrissey Dylan
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Physical activity (PA) has a number of benefits for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. However, these patients are more physically inactive than the general population. The primary aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with PA engagement among RA patients. The secondary aim was to identify their preference for PA support.

Methods

There were 96 participants, 76 of whom were female, with a mean age of 56.9 years (range = 34–72 years) and a median RA disease duration of 5 years (interquartile range = 2–12). All patients completed questionnaires assessing demographic status, health status (including cardiovascular disease [CVD] risk and RA disease profile), PA levels and preferences, alongside the perceived benefits of—and barriers to—PA. Hierarchical regressions were carried out to assess the relationship between reported PA levels and both engagement determinants and disease features.

Results

Forty‐five per cent (n = 44) had low levels (<600 metabolic equivalent‐min/week) of PA. Low level of PA was significantly associated with: CVD risk profile (ηp2 = 0.118, p < 0.002); functional disability (ηp2 = 0.206, p < 0.032); pain (ηp2 = 0.154, p < 0.028); general personal (ηp2 = 0.190, p < 0.001) and arthritis‐specific personal (ηp2 = 0.170, p < 0.001) barriers to PA; age (ηp2 = 0.076, p < 0.026); and sedentary behaviour (ηp2 = 0.275, p < 0.001). Participants displayed a preference for unsupervised (n = 37, 38.5%), low‐intensity (n = 45, 46.9%), indoor home (n = 50, 52.1%) exercises, with no preferences for the diversity of the exercise prescribed (n = 39, 40.6%) or for who provided the exercise counselling (n = 34, 35.4%).

Conclusions

These results suggest that CVD profile, disability, pain, and general and arthritis‐specific personal barriers are associated with PA levels among RA patients. Intervention development should address these factors to facilitate an increase in PA uptake.
Association Between Fat‐Free Mass and Pulmonary Function in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Gomes Allison , Hutcheon Deborah , Ziegler Jane
Published: February 2019

The association between body mass index (BMI) and pulmonary function in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) is well established, yet BMI as the sole indicator of nutrition status fails to assess body composition, specifically fat‐free mass (FFM). Reduced FFM is a characteristic of undernutrition and is associated with decreased pulmonary function. A critical review of the literature was undertaken to explore available evidence on the use of FFM derived from dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), compared with BMI, to assess pulmonary function and thereby nutrition status in patients with CF. Four cross‐sectional studies that met predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected for review. Based on the evidence reviewed, reduced FFM was associated with reduced pulmonary function in both children and adults with CF. FFM was reduced among patients who may not otherwise be identified as at nutrition risk based on BMI alone. FFM, as compared with BMI, appears to be a better indicator of pulmonary function and nutrition status in patients with CF. Although future research is needed to identify and determine FFM measurements that are associated with improved pulmonary function and nutrition status in patients with CF, these findings highlight the potential value and clinical utility of using FFM measurements derived from DXA among patients with CF. Together, FFM and BMI may provide a more comprehensive picture of nutrition status during the nutrition assessment of the patient with CF.
Increasing Enteral Protein Intake in Critically Ill Trauma and Surgical Patients
Authors: O'Keefe Grant E. , Shelton Marilyn , Qiu Qian , Araujo‐Lino Jose Cruz
Published: February 2019

Background

Published guidelines recommend providing at least 2 g/kg/d of protein for critically ill surgical patients. It may be difficult to achieve this level of intake using standard enteral formulas, thus necessitating protein or amino acid supplementation. Herein, we report our approach to enteral protein supplementation and its relationship with urinary nitrogen excretion and serum transthyretin concentrations.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study in which we reviewed critically ill trauma and surgical patients treated with supplemental enteral protein according to a protocol aiming to deliver a total of 2 g/kg/d of protein. We collected detailed nutrition data over a 2‐week period after admission and obtained additional data through discharge to determine caloric and protein intake as well as complications. We also compared urine nitrogen excretion and transthyretin concentrations between these patients and a control group who did not receive supplemental protein.

Results

Fifty‐three subjects received early protein supplementation. Formula and protein supplement each provided ≈1.2 g/kg/d of protein by intensive care unit day 4. This resulted in a median total protein intake of 2.2 g/kg/d through day 14. One patient developed acute kidney injury, and 1 patient had 3 episodes of vomiting. By the third week, serum transthyretin concentrations increased to a median of 21 mg/dL compared with 13 mg/dL in subjects not receiving early supplementation.

Conclusion

It is safe to deliver supplemental protein enterally to critically ill surgical and trauma patients and reach 2 g/kg/d of protein intake during the first week of illness.
Classification of the acute emetogenicity of chemotherapy in pediatric patients: A clinical practice guideline
Authors: Paw Cho Sing Edric , Robinson Paula D. , Flank Jacqueline , Holdsworth Mark , Thackray Jennifer , Freedman Jason , Gibson Paul , Orsey Andrea D. , Patel Priya , Phillips Robert , Portwine Carol , Raybin Jennifer L. , Cabral Sandra , Sung Lillian , Dupuis L. Lee
Published: February 2019

This clinical practice guideline (CPG) provides clinicians with recommendations regarding chemotherapy emetogenicity classification in pediatric oncology patients. This information is critically important for the appropriate selection of antiemetic prophylaxis. Recommendations are based on a systematic review limited to pediatric patients and a framework for classification when antiemetic prophylaxis is provided. Findings of 87 publications informed the emetogenicity classification of 49 single‐agent and 13 combination‐agent regimens. Information required for the classification of many chemotherapies commonly administered to pediatric patients is lacking. In the absence of pediatric data, consultation of methodologically sound CPGs aimed at adult oncology patients may be appropriate.
Nutritional status at diagnosis of cancer in children and adolescents in Guatemala and its relationship to socioeconomic disadvantage: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Villanueva Gabriela , Blanco Jessica , Rivas Silvia , Molina Ana Lucia , Lopez Nidia , Fuentes Ana Lucia , Muller Leslie , Caceres Annie , Antillon Federico , Ladas Elena , Barr Ronald D.
Published: February 2019

Background

At least 80% of children with cancer live in low‐ and middle‐income countries where the prevalence of malnutrition and socioeconomic disadvantage is high. We examined the relationship between nutritional status (NS), assessed by arm anthropometry, and socioeconomic status (SES) in children diagnosed with cancer at Unidad Nacional de Oncologia Pediatrica (UNOP) in Guatemala over a three‐year period.

Method

Patients aged 0 to 18 years of age diagnosed between January 2015 and December 2017 were included. NS was evaluated by mid‐upper arm circumference, triceps skin fold thickness, and serum albumin level, and subjects were classified as adequately nourished, moderately depleted, and severely depleted nutritionally. SES was measured by a 15‐item instrument developed at UNOP.

Results

Of 1365 patients diagnosed in the study period, 1060 (78%) fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Only 6% of patients were classified as medium to high, the remainder as medium–low to extremely low SES. Almost 47% were severely depleted at diagnosis, 19% moderately depleted, and 34% adequately nourished. SES was shown to be a determinant of NS; with progressively lower SES, the probability of a decline in NS increased by a factor of 1.04 points (P < 0.0001). Leukemia and lymphoma were also important predictors of nutritional depletion with odds ratios of 6.08 (95% CI, 1.74–28.28; P = 0.008) for leukemias and 4.83 (95% CI, 1.33–23.03; P = 0.03) for lymphomas.

Conclusion

Both low SES and a diagnosis of leukemia or lymphoma are strong predictors of poor NS at diagnosis in children with cancer in Guatemala.
Improving the performance of inverted organic solar cells by embedding silica‐coated silver nanoparticles deposited by electron‐beam evaporation
Authors: N'Konou Kekeli , Chalh Malika , Lucas Bruno , Vedraine Sylvain , Torchio Philippe
Published: February 2019

Embedding metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) in organic solar cells (OSCs) is proposed as one of the promising strategies to enhance their photovoltaic performance owing to localized surface plasmon resonance, light scattering effects or a synergy of both effects derived from the MNPs. However, it has been demonstrated that MNPs wrapped by a thin dielectric silica shell can lead to better photovoltaic yield than bare MNPs due to the presence of the dielectric shell which avoids direct contact between the active layer and the MNPs, reducing the charge recombination and the exciton quenching loss at the metal surface. In this study, we report an alternative solution using an ultrathin dielectric layer coating silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) for improving the performance of plasmonic inverted OSCs instead of the use of metal–dielectric core–shell NPs. A silica (SiO2) layer 5 nm thick coating evaporated Ag NPs with an average size of 60 nm is deposited on top of the zinc oxide (ZnO) layer used as the electron transport layer, leading to a significant improvement in the short‐circuit current density (Jsc) and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the inverted OSCs. The electron‐beam evaporation method is employed for controlled deposition of Ag NPs and SiO2 on the ZnO layer. The plasmonic devices resulted in an 18% and 14.1% enhancement of the Jsc and PCE, respectively, compared to reference devices. This increase of the photoelectric parameters in plasmonic devices is attributed not only to the plasmonic effects originating from the Ag NPs but also to the ultrathin silica layer which can contribute to facilitating charge extraction. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry