bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do public universities have more effective counselling services than private universities in Melaka?
Authors: Thuryrajah Vemala , Ahmed Elsadig Musa , Nathan Robert Jeyakumar
Published: October 2019

Background

School counselling interventions have a substantial impact on students’ educational and personal development. Individual and small group counselling, classroom guidance and consultation activities seem to contribute directly to students’ success in the classroom and beyond.

Aim

This paper attempted to study impact of counselling services in universities in Melaka state, Malaysia.

Method

The research was carried out in four universities in Melaka, with a total sample of 564 students.

Findings

The results showed that all research variables tested (awareness, resources, counsellor, management policy and effectiveness of counselling) were rated more highly in public universities than in private universities, with each variable achieving a p‐value of < .05.

Implications

All research variables tested (awareness, resources, counsellor, management policy and effectiveness of counselling) were rated more highly in public universities than in private universities. It is possible that this is because public universities follow Act 580 of the Counselling Act, which makes it compulsory for public universities to have counsellors, while this is not the case for private universities. Employing a counsellor is an additional cost and it may be that there is more reluctance to invest in the welfare of students in the private sector.
A Chemical Biology Approach to Understanding Molecular Recognition of Lipid II by Nisin(1–12): Synthesis and NMR Ensemble Analysis of Nisin(1–12) and Analogues
Authors: Dickman Rachael , Danelius Emma , Mitchell Serena A. , Hansen D. Flemming , Erdélyi Máté , Tabor Alethea B.
Published: October 2019

Natural products that target lipid II, such as the lantibiotic nisin, are strategically important in the development of new antibacterial agents to combat the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Understanding the structural factors that govern the highly selective molecular recognition of lipid II by the N‐terminal region of nisin, nisin(1–12), is a crucial step in exploiting the potential of such compounds. In order to elucidate the relationships between amino acid sequence and conformation of this bicyclic peptide fragment, we have used solid‐phase peptide synthesis to prepare two novel analogues of nisin(1–12) in which the dehydro residues have been replaced. We have carried out an NMR ensemble analysis of one of these analogues and of the wild‐type nisin(1–12) peptide in order to compare the conformations of these two bicyclic peptides. Our analysis has shown the effects of residue mutation on ring conformation. We have also demonstrated that the individual rings of nisin(1–12) are pre‐organised to an extent for binding to the pyrophosphate group of lipid II, with a high degree of flexibility exhibited in the central amide bond joining the two rings.
The impact of high‐intensity interval training on ventricular remodeling in patients with a recent acute myocardial infarction—A randomized training intervention pilot study
Authors: Trachsel Lukas‐Daniel , David Louis‐Philippe , Gayda Mathieu , Henri Christine , Hayami Douglas , Thorin‐Trescases Nathalie , Thorin Éric , Blain Mélissa‐Anne , Cossette Mariève , Lalongé Julie , Juneau Martin , Nigam Anil
Published: October 2019

Background

Aerobic exercise training is associated with beneficial ventricular remodeling and an improvement in cardiac biomarkers in chronic stable heart failure. High‐intensity interval training (HIIT) is a time‐efficient method to improve in stable coronary heart disease patients. This pilot study aimed to compare the effect of HIIT on ventricular remodeling in patients with a recent acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

Nineteen post‐AMI patients were randomized to either HIIT (n = 9) or usual care (n = 10). A cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), transthoracic echocardiography, and cardiac biomarker assessment (ie, N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide levels and G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 expression) were performed before and after a 12‐week training intervention. CPET parameters including oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) and at the first ventilatory threshold ( VT1) were calculated. left ventricular (LV) structural and functional echocardiographic parameters including myocardial strain imaging were assessed.

Results

and OUES improved solely in the HIIT group (P < .05 for group/time, respectively). There was a significant training effect for the improvement of peak work load in both groups (P < .05). O2 pulse and at VT1 both improved only in the HIIT group (P < .05 for time, no interaction). HIIT improved radial strain and pulsed‐wave tissue Doppler imaging derived e′ (P < .05 for time, no interaction). Cardiac biomarkers did not change in either group.

Conclusions

In post‐AMI patients, HIIT lead to significant improvements in prognostic CPET parameters compared to usual care. HIIT was associated with favorable ventricular remodeling regarding certain echocardiographic parameters of LV function.
Nonpyramidal neurons in the primate basolateral amygdala: A Golgi study in the baboon (Papio cynocephalus) and long‐tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: McDonald Alexander J. , Augustine James R.
Published: October 2019

Nonpyramidal GABAergic interneurons in the basolateral nuclear complex (BNC) of the amygdala are critical for the regulation of emotion. Remarkably, there have been no Golgi studies of these neurons in nonhuman primates. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the morphology of nonpyramidal neurons (NPNs) in the BNC of the baboon and monkey using the Golgi technique. NPNs were scattered throughout all nuclei of the BNC and had aspiny or spine‐sparse dendrites. NPNs were morphologically heterogeneous and could be divided into small, medium, large, and giant types based on the size of their somata. NPNs could be further divided on the basis of their somatodendritic morphology into four types: multipolar, bitufted, bipolar, and irregular. NPN axons, when stained, formed dense local arborizations that overlapped their dendritic fields to varying extents. These axons always exhibited varying numbers of varicosities representing axon terminals. Three specialized NPN subtypes were recognized because of their unique anatomical features: axo‐axonic cells, neurogliaform cells, and giant cells. The axons of axo‐axonic cells formed “axonal cartridges,” with clustered varicosities that contacted the axon initial segments of pyramidal neurons (PNs). Neurogliaform cells had small somata and numerous short dendrites that formed a dense dendritic arborization; they also exhibited a very dense axonal arborization that overlapped the dendritic field. Giant cells had very large irregular somata and long, thick dendrites; their distal dendrites often branched extensively and had long appendages. In general, the NPNs of the baboon and monkey BNC, including the specialized subtypes, were similar to those of rodents.
Adaptation of Mammalian Cells to Chemically Defined Media
Authors: Marigliani Bianca , Balottin Luciene Bottentuit López , Augusto Elisabeth de Fatima Pires
Published: October 2019

In order to circumvent ethical, technical, and economic drawbacks regarding the use of animal serum in cell culturing, it is possible to adapt mammalian cells to serum‐free media. Nowadays, there are several serum‐free formulations available, including fully animal derived–free and chemically defined media, and different adaptation techniques. This article focuses on the gradual adaptation of a mammalian suspension cell culture to a chemically defined medium. The first step is to transfer the cells cultured in medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS) to a chemically defined medium of your choice, containing the same amount of FBS. The next steps consist of progressively reducing the amount of FBS, while monitoring cell growth and viability up to the complete elimination of FBS. This protocol has been successfully used to adapt THP‐1 cells to a chemically defined medium with similar maximum specific growth rate as those cultured with FBS. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol: Gradual adaptation to chemically defined medium

Alternate Protocol: Direct adaptation to chemically defined medium

Support Protocol 1: Determining maximum specific growth rate of a cell culture

Support Protocol 2: Cell freezing and thawing
Spatiotemporal variability in water sources of urban soils and trees in the semiarid, irrigated Salt Lake Valley
Authors: Gómez‐Navarro Carolina , Pataki Diane E. , Bowen Gabriel J. , Oerter Erik J.
Published: October 2019

Plant transpiration is a critical process in ecohydrology and urban water budgets. Urban forests in the semiarid cities of the western United States are composed largely of non‐native species sustained by irrigation. Given that the major end use of water in these cities is usually landscape irrigation, the efficiency of irrigation practices is essential in future water conservation measures. The dependence of urban trees on irrigation is driven not only by the availability of alternative water sources (e.g., precipitation) but also by patterns of infiltration and mobility of soil water. We used hydrogen and oxygen stable isotopes to identify spatiotemporal dynamics of trees, of varied sizes and species, and shallow soil water apportioning of irrigation versus winter snowmelt in urban parks in the semiarid Salt Lake Valley. We estimate for this ecosystem that, on average, >70% of tree transpiration and soil moisture during the summer originate from irrigation, with lower proportions of snowmelt (<30%) from the preceding winter. This implies that a fraction of summer transpiration is originated from out of phase precipitation inputs. Irrigation fractions are dominant throughout the growing season for soil and stem water, but snowmelt fractions increase in stem water towards the end of summer. Tree size, location, and species were not strongly associated with water sources under well‐irrigated conditions. These results show that urban tree management practices should consider the impact of both irrigation practices and residual precipitation inputs, highlighting the importance of examining interannual time scales when calculating the local water budget.
Resilience to extreme flooding shown by both hydric and mesic wetland plant species
Authors: Brotherton Sarah J. , Joyce Chris B. , Berg Maureen J. , Awcock Graeme J.
Published: October 2019

Global climate change models forecast an increasing frequency and duration of extreme flood events, including during the growing season. In this mesocosm experiment, the survival, growth, and flowering of two hydric and two mesic wetland plant species were monitored under two extreme flood regimes, namely, repeated 2‐ and 7‐day floods, and compared with unflooded conditions. Plant survival was not significantly affected by flooding, but species showed different growth and flowering responses to the flood regimes. The hydric species Cardamine pratensis showed contrasting responses to floods with significantly more flowering stems and longer leaves in the 2‐day regime but delayed and poorer flowering in the 7‐day regime. Juncus articulatus, the other hydric species, responded most actively to 7‐day flooding, with significantly longer leaves, taller and more abundant flowering stems, and more flowers than in unflooded conditions. The mesic species Ranunculus acris showed variable growth and phenological responses to flooding, whereas Scorzoneroides autumnalis was most affected by the 7‐day flood regime, producing significantly shorter leaves and flowering stems and fewer flowers earlier in the season, compared with unflooded conditions. Overall, repeated 7‐day floods had a greater impact on plant performance than 2‐day flood events. All four species showed resilience to extreme flooding, irrespective of whether they were classed as hydric or mesic, but there was differential tolerance between species. This suggests that wetlands should be able to sustain vegetation under flooding extremes induced by climate change but community composition, biodiversity, and wetland services will all be affected.
B(C6F5)3‐Catalyzed Reduction of Cyclic N‐Sulfonyl Ketimines
Authors: Shi Lei , Bao Robert Li‐Yuan , Zheng Limin , Zhao Rong
Published: October 2019

A metal‐free method for reduction of cyclic N‐sulfonyl ketimines catalyzed by B(C6F5)3, using commercially available methylphenylsilane as a reducing reagent under mild conditions has been developed. This reductive protocol was effective, not only providing the expected cyclic N‐sulfonamides in good to excellent yields, but also showing good functional‐group tolerance.
Through‐Space “α‐Effect” between the Bridging Oxygen Atoms in Diepoxybenzo[de]isothiochromene Derivatives
Authors: Kvyatkovskaya Elizaveta A. , Nikitina Eugeniya V. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Galmés Bartomeu , Zubkov Fedor I. , Frontera Antonio
Published: October 2019

In this manuscript, we report the synthesis and X‐ray characterization of a series of diepoxybenzo[de]isothiochromenes obtained by the tandem [4+2] cycloaddition between dialkylacetylenedicarboxylate dienophiles and bis(furan‐2‐ylmethyl)sulfane (bis‐diene). For the synthesis, we have used four different dienophiles (RO2C–C≡C–CO2R, R = Me, Et,iPr,tBu) and kinetic conditions, so the “pincer”‐adduct is exclusively formed in good/moderate yield even for the bulky CO2tBu‐group. The polycyclic nature of the resulting products and the close distance between the O‐bridge atoms provoke an interesting through space lone pair···lone pair (LP···LP) orbital interaction that is conceptually similar to the “alpha‐effect”, which has been analyzed theoretically. Remarkably, this through‐space “alpha‐effect” enhances the ability of the O‐atoms to participate in hydrogen bonding interactions, as demonstrated by DFT calculations.
Long‐term thermal stability of fluorescent dye used for chiral amino acid analysis on future spaceflight missions
Authors: Creamer Jessica S. , Mora Maria F. , Noell Aaron C. , Willis Peter A.
Published: October 2019

Future spaceflight missions focused on life detection will carry with them new, state‐of‐the‐art instrumentation capable of highly selective and sensitive organic analysis. CE–LIF is an ideal candidate for such a mission due to its high separation efficiency and low LODs. One perceived risk of utilizing this technique on a future mission is the stability of the chemical reagents in the spaceflight environment. Here, we present an investigation of the thermal stability of the fluorescent dye (5‐carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester) used for amino acid analysis. The dye was stored at 4, 25, and 60°C for 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. When stored at 4°C for 2 years, 25°C for 6 months, or 60°C for 1 month there was no effect on CE‐LIF assay performance due to dye degradation. Beyond these time points, while the dye degradation begins to interfere with the analysis, it is still possible to perform the analysis and achieve the majority of amino acid biosignature science goals described in the science definition team report for the potential Europa Lander mission. This work indicates that thermal control of the dye at ≤4°C will be needed during transit on future spaceflight missions to maintain dye stability.
Mutation as a Toxicological Endpoint for Regulatory Decision‐Making
Authors: Heflich Robert H. , Johnson George E. , Zeller Andreas , Marchetti Francesco , Douglas George R. , Witt Kristine L. , Gollapudi B. Bhaskar , White Paul A.
Published: October 2019

Mutations induced in somatic cells and germ cells are responsible for a variety of human diseases, and mutation per se has been considered an adverse health concern since the early part of the 20th Century. Although in vitro and in vivo somatic cell mutation data are most commonly used by regulatory agencies for hazard identification, that is, determining whether or not a substance is a potential mutagen and carcinogen, quantitative mutagenicity dose–response data are being used increasingly for risk assessments. Efforts are currently underway to both improve the measurement of mutations and to refine the computational methods used for evaluating mutation data. We recommend continuing the development of these approaches with the objective of establishing consensus regarding the value of including the quantitative analysis of mutation per se as a required endpoint for comprehensive assessments of toxicological risk. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 61:34–41, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Headache in epilepsy: A prospective observational study
Authors: Whealy Mark A. , Myburgh Anna , Bredesen Tanya J. , Britton Jeffrey W.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To assess the frequency and characteristics of interictal and postictal headaches (using International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition criteria) in a population of patients with epilepsy admitted to the Mayo Clinic Rochester epilepsy monitoring unit and assess their localizing value.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study. Participants were voluntarily recruited upon admission to the epilepsy monitoring unit. Two separate questionnaires were then administered. The first was to assess the presence and character of headaches experienced in the past 12 months. The second was to assess characteristics of postictal headaches experienced during their admission including localization.

Results

One‐hundred and twenty subjects (77%) met inclusion criteria and completed the initial questionnaire. Mean age was 38.1 years (range 18‐82), and 67 (55.8%) were female. Interictal headaches were reported in 97 of 120 (81%) subjects, and these met ICHD3 criteria for migraine in 48 (50%). Postictal headaches were reported by 75 of 120 (63%) subjects on the initial admission questionnaire, representing migraine in 38 (51%). Thirty‐nine (32%) subjects completed the secondary questionnaire related to postictal headaches experienced during admission, of which nine (23%) met criteria for migraine. There was no seizure lateralizing or localizing value noted based on postictal headache localization.

Significance

Migraine was frequent in this cohort and appears to be the dominant interictal and postictal headache type in patients with epilepsy. In this study, the first to assess incident postictal headache in the setting of an ictal EEG, headache localization was of no seizure localizing value. Few patients were being actively treated; suggesting headache management is often overlooked in the epilepsy population.
Jujube mucilage as a potential stabilizer in stirred yogurt: Improvements in the physiochemical, rheological, and sensorial properties
Authors: Yekta Mandana , Ansari Sara
Published: October 2019

Here, the mucilage of jujube was extracted and used as a natural stabilizer in the production of stirred yogurt. Yogurts were enriched with different concentrations of jujube mucilage (i.e., 0, 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2%), and their physical, chemical and sensory attributes were analyzed during 21 days of storage at 4°C. The results showed that the protein and fat contents of the yogurts were not significantly different compared with each other, while higher ash contents were obtained in yogurts which contained higher concentrations of the mucilage. The acidity and proteolysis of the stirred yogurts were enhanced in the presence of mucilage, and they exhibited lower concentrations of diacetyl and acetaldehyde, although the differences were not significant among the samples of different treatments. The storage time had adverse and direct effects on the amounts of acetaldehyde and diacetyl, respectively. The effects of storage time and the presence of jujube mucilage in yogurts caused a significant decrease in the percentage of syneresis, while their viscosity and WHC values increased. The magnitudes of dynamic moduli (G, G''), complex viscosity (η*), and loss tangent (tan δ) of stirred yogurts increased by increasing the concentration of jujube mucilage. The yogurts which had been enriched with mucilage were preferred slightly less by tasters during the storage period, but these differences did not amount to a statistical significance. Generally, the results of the present study showed that the jujube mucilage can be potentially used as a natural stabilizer in stirred yogurt.
Neurovascular coupling in the developing neonatal brain at rest
Authors: Nourhashemi Mina , Mahmoudzadeh Mahdi , Goudjil Sabrina , Kongolo Guy , Wallois Fabrice
Published: October 2019

The neonatal brain is an extremely dynamic organization undergoing essential development in terms of connectivity and function. Several functional imaging investigations of the developing brain have found neurovascular coupling (NVC) patterns that contrast with those observed in adults. These discrepancies are partly due to that NVC is still developing in the neonatal brain. To characterize the vascular response to spontaneous neuronal activations, a multiscale multimodal noninvasive approach combining simultaneous electrical, hemodynamic, and metabolic recordings has been developed for preterm infants. Our results demonstrate that the immature vascular network does not adopt a unique strategy to respond to spontaneous cortical activations. NVC takes on different forms in the same preterm infant during the same recording session in response to very similar types of neural activation. This includes (a) positive stereotyped hemodynamic responses (increases in HbO, decreases in HbR together with increases in rCBF and rCMRO2), (b) negative hemodynamic responses (increases in HbR, decreases in HbO together with decreases in rCBF and rCMRO2), and (c) Increases and decreases in both HbO‐HbR and rCMRO2 together with no changes in rCBF. Age‐related NVC maturation is demonstrated in preterm infants, which can contribute to a better understanding/prevention of cerebral hemodynamic risks in these infants.
Finite element analysis of non‐Newtonian magnetohemodynamic flow conveying nanoparticles through a stenosed coronary artery
Authors: B Vasu , Dubey Ankita , Bég O. Anwar
Published: October 2019

The present study considers two‐dimensional mathematical modeling of non‐Newtonian nanofluid hemodynamics with heat and mass transfer in a stenosed coronary artery in the presence of a radial magnetic field. The second‐grade differential viscoelastic constitutive model is adopted for blood to mimic non‐Newtonian characteristics, and blood is considered to contain a homogenous suspension of nanoparticles. The Vogel model is employed to simulate the variation of blood viscosity as a function of temperature. The governing equations are an extension of the Navier‐Stokes equations with linear Boussinesq's approximation and Buongiorno's nanoscale model (which simulates both heat and mass transfer). The conservation equations are normalized by employing appropriate nondimensional variables. It is assumed that the maximum height of the stenosis is small in comparison with the radius of the artery, and, furthermore, that the radius of the artery and length of the stenotic region are of comparable magnitude. To study the influence of vessel geometry on blood flow and nanoparticle transport, variation in the design and size of the stenosis is considered in the domain. The transformed equations are solved numerically by means of the finite element method based on the variational approach and simulated using the FreeFEM++ code. A detailed grid‐independence study is included. Blood flow, heat, and mass transfer characteristics are examined for the effects of selected geometric, nanoscale, rheological, viscosity, and magnetic parameters, that is, stenotic diameter (d), viscoelastic parameter (), thermophoresis parameter (), Brownian motion parameter (), and magnetic body force parameter (M) at the throat of the stenosis and throughout the arterial domain. The velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration fields are also visualized through instantaneous patterns of contours. An increase in magnetic and thermophoresis parameters is found to enhance the temperature, nanoparticle concentration, and skin‐friction coefficient. Increasing Brownian motion parameter is observed to accelerate the blood flow. Narrower stenosis significantly alters the temperature and nanoparticle distributions and magnitudes. The novelty of the study relates to the combination of geometric complexity, multiphysical nanoscale, and thermomagnetic behavior, and also the simultaneous presence of biorheological behavior (all of which arise in actual cardiovascular heat transfer phenomena) in a single work with extensive visualization of the flow, heat, and mass transfer characteristics. The simulations are relevant to the diffusion of nano‐drugs in magnet‐targeted treatment of stenosed arterial disease.
Flow Photochemical Syntheses of trans‐Cyclooctenes and trans‐Cycloheptenes Driven by Metal Complexation
Authors: Pigga Jessica E. , Fox Joseph M.
Published: October 2019

trans‐Cyclooctenes and trans‐cycloheptenes have long been the subject of physical organic study, but the broader application had been limited by synthetic accessibility. This account describes the development of a general, flow photochemical method for the preparative synthesis of trans‐cycloalkene derivatives. Here, photoisomerization takes place in a closed‐loop flow reactor where the reaction mixture is continuously cycled through Ag(I) on silicagel. Selective complexation of the trans‐isomer by Ag(I) during flow drives an otherwise unfavorable isomeric ratio toward the trans‐isomer. Analogous photoreactions under batch‐conditions are low yielding, and flow chemistry is necessary in order to obtain trans‐cycloalkenes in preparatively useful yields. The applications of the method to bioorthogonal chemistry and stereospecific transannulation chemistry are described.
Reproductive cycle of northern largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides salmoides
Authors: Brown Michael L. , Kasiga Tom , Spengler Daniel E. , Clapper Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2019

The seasonal dynamics of the northern largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides salmoides) reproductive cycle was investigated in a Midwestern United States population. Mature largemouth bass (n = five males and five females) were collected each month over a one‐year period. Environmental cues (water temperature and photoperiod) were recorded in situ using data loggers. Temporal changes in plasma sex steroid hormones (testosterone [T], 11‐ketotestosterone [11‐KT], and estradiol‐17β [E2]) and vitellogenin (Vtg), gamete development (histology), and organosomatic indices were highly associated with temporal water temperature and photoperiod dynamics. Female plasma concentrations of T and E2 and organosomatic indices exhibited similar temporal patterns, with peaks occurring in early summer. Gamete development in females was associated with increases in gonadosomatic index (GSI) and Vtg. In males, plasma concentrations of T and organosomatic indices exhibited bimodal peaks; high peaks occurred in the spring for T and GSI and in the fall for viscerosomatic and hepatosomatic indices. Male gamete development and GSI closely tracked temporal patterns in plasma T, with GSI lagging behind the T cycle by approximately one sampling period. Plasma concentrations of 11‐KT were elevated in late winter and spring and were considerably higher than T throughout the reproductive cycle. Unlike the Florida largemouth bass (M. salmoides floridanus) advanced gamete development was observed in both sexes before winter, which may reduce the immediate energy required for gamete development in the spring. Results from this study also provide baseline information necessary for off‐season spawning procedures and endocrine‐disruption studies in northern largemouth bass.
Partial replacement of pork fat by Echium oil in reduced sodium bologna sausages: technological, nutritional and stability implications
Authors: Pires Manoela A , Rodrigues Isabela , Barros Julliane C , Carnauba Gabriela , de Carvalho Francisco AL , Trindade Marco A
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

The present research aimed to evaluate the nutritional, technological, microstructural and sensory characteristics of bologna sausages made with pork fat replaced with Echium oil. Three different treatments were processed, all of them with approximately 35% less sodium than a regular bologna‐type sausage: Control (only pork backfat addition) and T25 and T50 (replacement of 25 and 50% of the added animal fat with Echium oil respectively).

RESULTS

Proximate composition, texture profile analysis, fatty acid profile and microstructure were evaluated to characterize the products. In refrigerated storage, the following characteristics were assessed: thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) index, objective color, pH value, microbiological counts and sensory acceptance. Both samples with Echium oil (T25 and T50) showed a healthier lipid profile, with high omega‐3 content, mainly from α‐linolenic and stearidonic fatty acids, consequently presenting better (P ≤ 0.05) values of nutritional indices than the Control. However, the replacement of 50% animal fat with Echium oil negatively affected (P ≤ 0.05) most of the technological characteristics and the sensory acceptance of bolognas. In contrast, the treatment with 25% replacement did not show significant differences in most of the evaluated parameters compared with the Control sample.

CONCLUSION

Thus the replacement of 25% of pork backfat with Echium oil in bologna sausages can be recommended, representing a good balance between nutritional gains and sensory impairment. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Changes in total lymphocyte count and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio after curative pancreatectomy in patients with pancreas adenocarcinoma and their prognostic role
Authors: Kim Eun Y. , Hong Tae H.
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives

To assess the prognostic significance of postoperative changes in immune status represented by total lymphocyte count (TLC) and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in resectable pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Patients who underwent curative pancreatectomy for pancreatic adenocarcinoma were divided into high and low groups according to cut‐off values of TLC, and NLR measured preoperatively, immediately after surgery, and 1 or 6 months after surgery. Oncologic outcomes were compared between the two groups at different times, and prognostic roles of TLC and NLR were evaluated.

Results

Of 193 patients, the median follow‐up time was 22 months, and median survival was 18 months. Their immunologic status deteriorated within 3 to 4 days after the operation and recovered after that. At 1 and 6 months postoperatively, overall survival rates were significantly lower in the group with high NLR (>2.535 and >3.21, respectively) and low TLC (<1.66 × 109 and <1.62 × 109/L, respectively). In multiple regression analyses, elevated NLR at postoperative 1 and 6 months and decreased TLC at postoperative 1 month were significant prognosis predictors.

Conclusions

Changes in immune status such as decreased TLC and elevated NLR at postoperative 1 and 6 months are effective prognostic predictors after curative pancreatectomy in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Polymorphisms of CHRNA3 and CHRNA5: Head and neck cancer and cigarette consumption intensity in a Brazilian population
Authors: Silva Mariana R. , Gattás Gilka J. F. , De Antonio Juliana , Firigato Isabela , Curioni Otávio A. , Gonçalves Fernanda de Toledo
Published: October 2019

Background

Cigarette consumption has been identified as the main non‐etiological factor in head and neck cancer (HNC) development. One of the main compounds in cigarettes is nicotine, which binds directly to nicotine acetylcholine receptors (nAchRs) in the body, which are encoded by different genes of the CHRNA family. Polymorphisms in some of these genes have been studied in relation to the risk of HNC and cigarette consumption intensity. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there were associations between the CHRNA3 (rs578776) and CHRNA5 (rs16969968) polymorphisms and HNC risk and between the polymorphisms and the intensity of cigarette consumption.

Methods

A total of 1,067 individuals from Heliopolis Hospital in São Paulo were investigated, including 619 patients with HNC and 448 patients without diagnosed tumors. All participants answered a questionnaire about sociodemographic information and cigarette consumption data. The polymorphisms were determined by TaqMan genotyping by real‐time PCR.

Results

The polymorphisms studied, rs578776 (CHRNA3) and rs16969968 (CHRNA5), did not have an association with HNC risk, but the rs16969968 homozygous genotype was associated with increased cigarette consumption intensity (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.05–3.58).

Conclusion

The polymorphism CHRNA5 can be considered an indirect risk factor for neoplasms in these Brazilian samples when cigarette consumption increased.
500 GHz CMOS heterodyne imager adopting fourth subharmonic passive mixer
Authors: Choi Kyung‐Sik , Park Dae‐Woong , Utomo Dzuhri Radityo , Lee Sang‐Gug
Published: October 2019

A 500 GHz heterodyne imager adopting a source‐driven fourth subharmonic single balanced resistive mixer is implemented in 65‐nm CMOS technology. The adopted passive mixer improves the port‐to‐port isolation and minimizes the input matching loss. At an LO power of 5 dBm, the imager achieves a conversion loss and double sideband noise figure of 30.2 dB and 51 dB, respectively, which corresponds to −93 dBm and 15.8 fW/Hz0.5 of sensitivity and the effective noise equivalent power, respectively, assuming a noise bandwidth of 1 kHz. To the best of authors' knowledge, the proposed work is the highest frequency implementation as a CMOS‐based heterodyne imagers adopting resistive mixers.
Assessing localized dosimetric effects due to unplanned gas cavities during pelvic MR‐guided radiotherapy using Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Shortall Jane , Vasquez Osorio Eliana , Chuter Robert , McWilliam Alan , Choudhury Ananya , Kirkby Karen , Mackay Ranald , van Herk Marcel
Published: October 2019

Purpose

It has been proposed that beam modulation and opposing beam configurations can cancel effects of the Electron Return Effect (ERE) during MR‐guided radiotherapy (MRgRT). However, this may not always be the case for unplanned gas cavities outside of the target in the pelvic region. We evaluate dosimetric effects, including effects in the rectal wall, due to unplanned spherical air cavities during MRgRT.

Methods

Nine virtual cuboid water phantoms containing spherical air cavities (0.5–7.5 cm diameter) and a reference phantom without air were created. Monte Carlo dose calculations of 7 MV photons under the influence of a 1.5 T transverse magnetic field were produced using Monaco 5.19.02 Treatment Planning System (TPS) (Elekta AB, Stockholm, Sweden). Cavities in the path of a single and multiple beam plans were considered. Dose distributions of phantoms with and without air cavities were compared (ΔD%) using a spherical coordinate system originating in the center of the cavity. Effects in the rectal wall were quantified by comparing dose volume histogram (DVH) parameters for solid and gaseous filling from simulated rectal wall structures.

Results

Max(ΔD%) of ~70% and 20% were observed around large cavities in the path of a single and multiple beam plans, respectively. Approximately 45 cm3 of phantom surrounding the largest cavity in a single beam received dose changes of >10%. Dmean in the rectal wall was unchanged when comparing gaseous and solid filling in the path of a single beam; however, D1cc and Dmax increased by up to ~45% and ~63%, respectively.

Conclusions

Unplanned gas cavities in the path of a single beam during pelvic MRgRT with a 1.5 T transverse magnetic field cause dose changes which may impact toxicity in the rectal wall, depending on local dose and fractionation. Effects are reduced but not eliminated with a five‐beam plan.
On the capabilities of conventional x‐ray tubes to deliver ultra‐high (FLASH) dose rates
Authors: Bazalova‐Carter Magdalena , Esplen Nolan
Published: October 2019

Purpose

By means of Monte Carlo (MC) simulations and indirect measurements, we have evaluated the maximum dose rates achievable with conventional x‐ray tubes and related them to FLASH therapy dose rates of >40 Gy/s.

Methods

Monte Carlo models of two 160 kV x‐ray tubes, the 3‐kW MXR‐160/22 and the 6‐kW MXR‐165, were built in the EGSnrc/BEAMnrc code. The dose rate in a water phantom placed against the x‐ray tube surface, located at 3.7 and 3.5 cm from the focal spot for the MXR‐160/22 and MXR‐165 x‐ray tube, respectively, was calculated with DOSXYZnrc. Dose delivered with the 120‐kV beam in a plastic water phantom for the MXR‐160/22 was measured and calculated. Gafchromic EBT3 films were placed at 15 and 18 mm depths in the plastic water phantom that was irradiated with a low tube current of 0.2 mA for 30 s.

Results

The maximum 160‐kV phantom surface dose rate was determined to be FLASH capable, calculated as (114.3 ± 0.6) Gy/s and (160.0 ± 0.8) Gy/s for the MXR‐160/22 and MXR‐165 x‐ray tubes, respectively. The dose rate in a 1‐cm diameter region was found to be (110.6 ± 2.8) Gy/s and (151.9 ± 2.6) Gy/s and remained FLASH capable to depths of 1.4 and 2.0 mm for the MXR‐160/22 and MXR‐165 x‐ray tube, respectively. The 120‐kV dose profiles measured with EBT3 films agreed with MC simulations to within 3.6% for regions outside of heel effect and at both measurement depths; this presented a good validation data set for the simulations of phantom surface dose rate using the 160‐kV beam.

Conclusions

We have indirectly determined that, with a careful experimental design, conventional x‐ray tubes can be made suitable for use in FLASH radiotherapy and dosimetry experiments.
Pellagra, an Almost‐Forgotten Differential Diagnosis of Chronic Diarrhea: More Prevalent Than We Think
Authors: Cao Shanjin , Wang Xiaodan , Cestodio Kristen
Published: October 2019

Pellagra, caused by vitamin B3 (niacin) deficiency, is traditionally described as dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia (3D), and even death (4D) syndrome if not recognized and treated promptly. Although full‐blown pellagra with all 3D features has become rare, pellagra still exists, especially in high‐risk populations, which is actually more prevalent than we think. We report that a recently treated patient with the full spectrum of 3D clinical features of pellagra presents as chronic diarrhea of unknown etiology for 1 year. It reminds us that keeping a high index of suspicion and maintaining a broad differential diagnosis are critical for recognition and management of this potentially fatal but treatable condition.
Returning to our roots: The use of geospatial data for nurse‐led community research
Authors: DePriest Kelli N. , Shields Timothy M. , Curriero Frank C.
Published: October 2019

In the early 20th century, public health nurse, Lillian Wald, addressed the social determinants of health (SDOH) through her work in New York City and her advocacy to improve policy in workplace conditions, education, recreation, and housing. In the early 21st century, addressing the SDOH is a renewed priority and provides nurse researchers with an opportunity to return to our roots. The purpose of this methods paper is to examine how the incorporation of geospatial data and spatial methodologies in community research can enhance the analyses of the complex relationships between social determinants and health. Geospatial technologies, software for mapping and working with geospatial data, statistical methods, and unique considerations are discussed. An exemplar for using geospatial data is presented regarding associations between neighborhood greenspace, neighborhood violence, and children's asthma control. This innovative use of geospatial data illustrates a new frontier in investigating nontraditional connections between the environment and SDOH outcomes.
Recruitment strategies and challenges: Lessons learned from a coal ash and children's health study
Authors: Odoh Chisom , Sears Clara G. , Tompkins Lindsay K. , Hagemeyer Abby N. , Pfeiffer Jack A. , Polivka Barbara J. , Sears Lonnie , Brock Guy N. , Zhang C. , Zierold Kristina M.
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this paper is to describe the approaches and recruitment strategies of a study focused on the impact of coal fly ash on neurobehavioral performance among children living in proximity to coal‐burning power plants. Challenges encountered with each recruitment approach are highlighted as well as solutions used to overcome those challenges and ultimately enroll children and one of their parents or guardians. To ensure participants were distributed throughout the study area, geographical information systems were used to guide recruitment and achieve the target sample size (N = 300). Several approaches were employed to recruit the number of needed participants, including “shoe leather” or door‐to‐door recruitment, placement of flyers and brochures in public spaces, mailings to targeted addresses, media announcements, and local government outreach. Since September 2015, 265 participants have been enrolled in the study using a combination of the described recruitment approaches. Even with a well‐designed plan, it is important to re‐examine strategies at every step to maximize recruitment efforts. Researcher flexibility in adapting to new strategies is vital in facilitating recruitment efforts, and the recruitment of participants in the study remains a dynamic and evolving process.
Maternal and family predictors of infant psychological development in at‐risk families: A multilevel longitudinal study
Authors: Landi Isotta , Giannotti Michele , Venuti Paola , de Falco Simona
Published: October 2019

The impact of different parenting‐related variables on child psychological development is widely acknowledged. However, studies about the specific influence of maternal and family dimensions on child early developmental outcomes in at‐risk dyads are still scarce. The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate the short‐ and middle‐term effects of prenatal and postnatal family and maternal features, and child attachment, on child psychological development at 3 and 24 months in at‐risk families. Forty‐two mothers with psychological, social and/or demographic risk conditions and their first‐born infants were assessed longitudinally. Measurements of maternal personality, psychological and depressive symptoms, family socioeconomic status (SES), child–mother attachment, and infant general psychological development were collected at multiple time points, through validated questionnaires and/or mother–child observation. Maternal and family dimensions showed a significant effect on child psychological development over time. The expected detrimental role of reported maternal depressive symptoms was observed both at 3 and 24 months of child's age. Data also highlighted the negative contribution of low family SES and an unexpected positive influence of maternal personality trait of psychoticism on child psychological development at 24 months. We also found a positive association between attachment security and child developmental outcome. These findings might have relevant implications for the implementation of early prevention programs by differentiating the specific predictive role of maternal child and familial factors on child psychological development in at‐risk families.
Neonatal outcome of cases with isolated prenatal ventricular disproportion with a dominant right ventricle
Authors: Zhao Liqing , Jiao Xianting , Huang Suqiu , Wu Yurong , Chen Sun
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Isolated prenatal ventricular disproportion with a dominant right ventricle represents a challenge in decision‐making for both physicians and pregnant women. In the current study, we sought to delineate the postnatal outcomes of these cases.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included consecutive cases of isolated ventricular disproportion identified using complete fetal echocardiography at the Fetal Heart Center of Xinhua Hospital from January 2014 to October 2017. Postnatal cardiac outcome was examined using transthoracic echocardiography within the first 6 months after birth.

Results

A total of 90 fetuses were included in the final analysis. The median gestational age (GA) at diagnosis was 29 weeks (range 24 to 36). At postnatal examination, cardiac malformations were detected in 39 cases (43.3%), including 25 (27.8%) cases of congenital cardiac septal defects, eight (8.9%) of persistent left superior vena cava, four (4.4%) of left‐sided obstructive diseases, and one (1.1%) case of coronary fistula. Nineteen cases (21.1%) with fetal cardiac malformations had significant lower GA at diagnosis (P = .01) and greater right to left ventricle ratio (1.38 vs 1.30, P = .02). Neonatal surgical intervention was not required in any of the cases.

Conclusions

Isolated prenatal ventricular disproportion with a dominant right ventricle comprises minor postnatal cardiac malformations and doesn't require neonatal intervention.
Quantitative systems toxicology (QST) reproduces species differences in PF‐04895162 liver safety due to combined mitochondrial and bile acid toxicity
Authors: Generaux Grant , Lakhani Vinal V. , Yang Yuching , Nadanaciva Sashi , Qiu Luping , Riccardi Keith , Di Li , Howell Brett A. , Siler Scott Q. , Watkins Paul B. , Barton Hugh A. , Aleo Michael D. , Shoda Lisl K. M.
Published: October 2019

Many compounds that appear promising in preclinical species, fail in human clinical trials due to safety concerns. The FDA has strongly encouraged the application of modeling in drug development to improve product safety. This study illustrates how DILIsym, a computational representation of liver injury, was able to reproduce species differences in liver toxicity due to PF‐04895162 (ICA‐105665). PF‐04895162, a drug in development for the treatment of epilepsy, was terminated after transaminase elevations were observed in healthy volunteers (NCT01691274). Liver safety concerns had not been raised in preclinical safety studies. DILIsym, which integrates in vitro data on mechanisms of hepatotoxicity with predicted in vivo liver exposure, reproduced clinical hepatotoxicity and the absence of hepatotoxicity observed in the rat. Simulated differences were multifactorial. Simulated liver exposure was greater in humans than rats. The simulated human hepatotoxicity was demonstrated to be due to the interaction between mitochondrial toxicity and bile acid transporter inhibition; elimination of either mechanism from the simulations abrogated injury. The bile acid contribution occurred despite the fact that the IC50 for bile salt export pump (BSEP) inhibition by PF‐04895162 was higher (311 µmol/L) than that has been generally thought to contribute to hepatotoxicity. Modeling even higher PF‐04895162 liver exposures than were measured in the rat safety studies aggravated mitochondrial toxicity but did not result in rat hepatotoxicity due to insufficient accumulation of cytotoxic bile acid species. This investigative study highlights the potential for combined in vitro and computational screening methods to identify latent hepatotoxic risks and paves the way for similar and prospective studies.