bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mito::mKate2 mouse: A far‐red fluorescent reporter mouse line for tracking mitochondrial dynamics in vivo
Authors: Barrasso Anthony P. , Tong Xuefei , Poché Ross A.
Published: December 2017

Mitochondria are incredibly dynamic organelles that undergo continuous fission and fusion events to control morphology, which profoundly impacts cell physiology including cell cycle progression. This is highlighted by the fact that most major human neurodegenerative diseases are due to specific disruptions in mitochondrial fission or fusion machinery and null alleles of these genes result in embryonic lethality. To gain a better understanding of the pathophysiology of such disorders, tools for the in vivo assessment of mitochondrial dynamics are required. It would be particularly advantageous to simultaneously image mitochondrial fission‐fusion coincident with cell cycle progression. To that end, we have generated a new transgenic reporter mouse, called mito::mKate2 that ubiquitously expresses a mitochondria localized far‐red mKate2 fluorescent protein. Here we show that mito::mKate2 mice are viable and fertile and that mKate2 fluorescence can be spectrally separated from the previously developed Fucci cell cycle reporters. By crossing mito::mKate2 mice to the ROSA26R‐mTmG dual fluorescent Cre reporter line, we also demonstrate the potential utility of mito::mKate2 for genetic mosaic analysis of mitochondrial phenotypes.
FTO – an Electrode Material for the Stable Electrochemical Determination of Dopamine
Authors: Göbel Gero , Talke Anja , Lisdat Fred
Published: December 2017

Dopamine and other catecholamines play a keyrole for the interaction of numerous processes in the neuronal network. Hence, numerous detection methods have been developed. Electrochemical sensor developments for catecholamines are characterized mostly by complex modification strategies in order to avoid a disturbance of the sensor signal by interfering substances. Here the application of fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) as electrode material for dopamine detection is reported avoiding the necessity of expensive modifications and stability problems. This FTO based electrode allows the discrimination between dopamine and its precursor as well as its methylated degradation product and is not disturbed by typical interfering compounds (ascorbic acid, uric acid) and is characterized by high linearity and stability of the sensor signal for repeated measurements.
Adulteration of clove essential oil: Detection using a handheld Raman spectrometer
Authors: Vargas Jentzsch Paul , Gualpa Fernando , Ramos Luis A. , Ciobotă Valerian
Published: December 2017

Essential oils are highly appreciated substances used as row materials in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry. Due to its biological activity and properties, the oil extracted from clove (Eugenia caryophyllus) has gained economic importance, and this is the main reason why adulterated clove essential oils have appeared in the market. The detection of adulteration is a fundamental task to ensure the quality of industrial products and, therefore, to protect the consumers from potential harmful products. In order to test the suitability of Raman spectroscopy to detect adulteration in essential oils, nineteen samples of commercial clove essential oil were measured with a handheld device and their Raman spectra analyzed. The Raman spectrum of a sample of authentic clove essential oil is dominated by bands of its main component eugenol. Principal component analysis (PCA) and independent component analysis (ICA) were applied in order to identify the adulterated samples and to assess the quality of the authentic samples. It was found that two samples were adulterated by the addition of benzyl alcohol and a third one by the addition of a vegetable oil. The adulteration by addition of benzyl alcohol is easy to detect by a quick inspection of the Raman spectrum, since this compound shows an intense band at 1003 cm‐1. However, the detection of adulteration by the addition of other substances (e.g., vegetable oils) requires the application of multivariable analysis, i.e., PCA or ICA. The results show that Raman spectroscopy is an appropriate technique for quality control of clove essential oil.
Healthcare provider attitudes regarding the provision of assisted reproductive services for HIV‐affected couples in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Pinsky Alana N. , Steenbergh Kylie , Boyd Heather M. , Michael Belen , Bekele Delayehu , Kobernik Emily , Gebremedhin Lia Tadesse , Mmeje Okeoma
Published: December 2017

Objective

To evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of providing assisted reproductive services as part of routine HIV care and treatment in Ethiopia.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional study using semistructured in‐depth interviews was conducted at St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during July 2014 and July 2015. The interviews assessed the perspectives of healthcare providers (HCPs) regarding the reproductive desires of HIV‐affected couples, on assisting them in achieving pregnancy, and on the facilitators and barriers to offering such services as part of routine HIV care.

Results

There were 40 HCPs from two SPHMMC clinics interviewed. All HCPs asserted that HIV‐affected couples should have equal access to assisted reproductive services and most agreed that couples should have this access to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, even in the absence of underlying infertility. However, the HCPs cited systemic and structural barriers to the implementation and delivery of assisted reproductive services.

Conclusion

The integration of assisted reproductive services into HIV care and treatment programs is acceptable and feasible to HCPs. Formal training of HCPs may improve the implementation of these services for HIV‐affected couples in low‐resource settings.
Retrospective observational study of interventions to improve acceptance of long‐acting reversible contraception following abortion at Lusaka Teaching Hospital, Zambia
Authors: Macha Swebby , Muyuni Mutinta , Nkonde Scholastica , Pádua Karla S. , Faundes Anibal
Published: December 2017

Objective

To evaluate long‐acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) uptake immediately after abortion at Lusaka University Teaching Hospital, Zambia in the period following an intervention to increase the acceptance of LARC.

Methods

The present retrospective, observational study reviewed the clinical records of all patients admitted to the Lusaka University Teaching Hospital for an incomplete abortion or for a legal induced abortion between January 1 and December 31, 2016. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of adult women (aged 20–44 years) and adolescents (aged 10–19 years) who were already using an available contraceptive method at the time of hospital discharge. Contraceptive use was compared with historical data from the same institution before the intervention to increase LARC acceptance was performed.

Results

Data from 3858 patients (587 adolescents and 3271 adults) were included. LARC use was recorded among 108 (18.4%) and 409 (12.5%) adolescents and adults, respectively. This compared with rates from 2011 of less than 1% and less than 4%, respectively.

Conclusion

The rate of LARC use at discharge following incomplete or induced abortion had increased when compared with historical control data from before the intervention program was performed; however, there remains room for improvement.
Audit of operative hysteroscopies among infertile women in a resource‐poor setting
Authors: Ugboaja Joseph O. , Oguejiofor Charlotte B. , Ogelle Onyecherelam M.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To evaluate the operative hysteroscopy procedures performed among infertile women at two hospitals in Nigeria.

Methods

A prospective case series was undertaken among all patients with infertility who underwent operative hysteroscopy between November 2015 and April 2017. The outcome measures included the frequency and type of operative hysteroscopy and the reproductive outcome.

Results

The series included 159 women, 70.4% (n=112) of whom had abnormal findings at hysteroscopy. A total of 162 operative hysteroscopic procedures were performed; the most common procedures were adhesiolysis (76 [46.9%]), polypectomy (28 [17.3%]), and septum resection/incision (17 [10.5%]). The instruments used were mainly scissors (65 [40.1%]) and a resectoscope (52 [32.1%]). Complete removal of the lesions was achieved in 86.4% (n=140) of the procedures and a normal cavity in 87.0% (n=141). The complication rate was 6.8% (n=11); the most common complication was minor hemorrhage (5 [3.1%]). The main challenges included poor distention (10 [6.2%]) and poor vision (8 [4.9%]). Menstrual normalization was achieved in 64 (40.3%) of the patients, the cumulative pregnancy rate was 19.5% (n=31), and the live birth rate was 3.8% (n=6).

Conclusion

Operative hysteroscopy was feasible and safe in the present resource‐poor region. There is a need to build capacity for the performance of hysteroscopy to facilitate the management of infertility in the region.
IGM‐based perceptual multimodal medical image fusion using free energy motivated adaptive PCNN
Authors: Tang Lu , Tian Chuangeng , Xu Kai
Published: December 2017

Multimodal medical image fusion merges two medical images to produce a visual enhanced fused image, to provide more accurate comprehensive pathological information to doctors for better diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we present a perceptual multimodal medical image fusion method with free energy (FE) motivated adaptive pulse coupled neural network (PCNN) by employing Internal Generative Mechanism (IGM). First, source images are divided into predicted layers and detail layers with Bayesian prediction model. Then to retain human visual system inspired features, FE is used to motivate the PCNN for processing detail layers, and large firing times are selected as coefficients. The predicted layers are fused with the averaging strategy as activity level measurement. Finally, the fused image is reconstructed by merging coefficients in both fused layers. Experimental results visually and quantitatively show that the proposed fusion strategy is superior to the state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Mental health therapists’ perceptions of their readiness to address the intersection of intimate partner violence and suicide
Authors: Wilson John L. , Uthman Cassandra , Thompson Stone Jennifer , Nichols‐Hadeed Corey , Kruchten Rachel , Rousseau Sally , Cerulli Catherine
Published: December 2017

Our aim is characterize mental health therapists’ self‐efficacy pertaining to working with patients at risk for intimate partner violence (IPV) and suicide at a community mental health center (CMHC), where these issues intersect. Consistent with community‐based participatory research, a multidisciplinary team partnered with an urban CMHC in New York to conduct 3 focus groups comprising 23 therapists. We iteratively coded and mapped prevalent themes according to self‐efficacy theory. Therapists described multiple sources of self‐efficacy: successful achievement of tasks such as demonstrating a mastery of local resources and knowledge of therapeutic strategies for IPV‐involved clients; vicarious experiences including homicide–suicide portrayals in the media; verbally persuading patients regarding treatment engagement; and physiologic reactions, including distress and burnout. Therapists feel equipped to address patients’ needs, but they want more information on IPV and suicide. Perhaps most surprising was the frustration and isolation participants discussed regarding working with physicians and agencies outside their office walls. Interdisciplinary dialogue and case conferencing may enhance patient care and safety.
Mixed viral infections of the respiratory tract; an epidemiological study during consecutive winter seasons
Authors: Antalis Emmanouil , Oikonomopoulou Zacharoula , Kottaridi Christine , Kossyvakis Athanasios , Spathis Aris , Magkana Maria , Katsouli Aikaterini , Tsagris Vassileios , Papaevangelou Vassiliki , Mentis Andreas , Tsiodras Sotirios
Published: December 2017

The current study aimed to describe the molecular epidemiology of mixed respiratory viral infections during consecutive winter seasons in a tertiary care hospital. Patients with symptoms of respiratory tract infection were evaluated during the 2009‐2011 and 2013‐15 winter seasons. A clinical microarray technique was used for viral detection. Clinical and epidemiological data were correlated with mixed viral detection and the need for hospitalization. In 332 out of 604 (54.4%) evaluated patients (17.6% children) a respiratory virus was identified. Mixed viral infections were diagnosed in 68/332 (20.5%) patients with virus detection (66.2% mixed Influenza‐RSV infections). Mixed viral infections were more commonly detected in children (OR 3.7; 95%CI 1.9‐5.6, P < 0.01) and patients with comorbidities. In logistic regression analyses, mixed viral infections were associated with younger age (mean age 30.4 years vs. 41.8 years, P ≤ 0.001) and increased rates of fever (OR: 2.7; 95%CI 1.04‐7.2, P < 0.05) but no adverse outcomes or increased rates of hospitalization. High rates of mixed viral infections were noted during all winter seasons (especially Influenza and RSV) and were more common in younger patients. The clinical significance of mixed respiratory viral infection needs further elucidation.
Generation of a KSHV K13 deletion mutant for vFLIP function study
Authors: Wang Fei , Guo Yuanyuan , Li Wan , Lu Chun , Yan Qin
Published: December 2017

Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV)‐encoded viral Fas‐associated death domain‐like IL‐1‐converting enzyme inhibitory protein (vFLIP) is one of the latently expressed genes and plays a key role in cell survival and maintenance of latent infection by activating the NF‐κB pathway. To obtain a genetic system for studying KSHV vFLIP mutation in the context of the viral genome, we generated recombinant viruses lacking the coding sequence (CDS) of vFLIP gene (K13/ORF71) by bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) technology and the Escherichia coli Red recombination system. After a series of verification with PCR, restriction digestion and sequencing, the K13 deletion bacmids was transfected into a stable viral producer cell line based on iSLK cells to create vFLIP‐knockout mutant. Importantly, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) could be de novo infected by vFLIP mutant virus, which are now available for studying the roles of vFLIP in regulation of other KSHV genes and viral pathogenesis.
Surrogate modeling and variability analysis of on‐chip spiral inductors
Authors: Akso Emre , Soysal İhsan Baturay , Yelten Mustafa Berke
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an approach to the analysis of on‐chip integrated spiral inductors in terms of parametric variabilities. An enhanced single‐π model is proposed to compensate for high frequency deviations. In addition to the single‐π model parameters, the skin effect and the proximity effect are included in the surrogate model to reflect high frequency behavior much more accurately while retaining a simple structure. Y‐parameters of the equivalent circuit are derived to extract the frequency‐dependent inductance and quality factor representations using the shunt and differential configurations. This study introduces a novel algorithm able to yield model parameter values through iterations converging on the predetermined inductance curve within an error margin of 5%. High‐Q and low‐Q characteristics of inductors arising from process variations were also captured with the proposed algorithm, along with the failure points of the inductance, the quality factor, and the self‐resonance frequency. Variability analysis results demonstrate that the differential configuration is more robust to inductance and quality factor failures, but also that it is more vulnerable to self‐resonance frequency failures.
An improved time marching simulation of distributed multiport networks loaded with nonlinear devices
Authors: Becerra Juan , Vega Felix , Rachidi Farhad
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we present a method for obtaining stable time marching equations of distributed multiport networks with nonlinear loads. This method allows to highly decrease the number of frequency samples required by other stable TM methods. Stability is analyzed and ensured in the Z‐domain.
A minireplicon of plasmid pBMB26 represents a new typical replicon in the megaplasmids of Bacillus cereus group
Authors: Wang Pengxia , Zhu Yiguang , Shang Hui , Deng Yun , Sun Ming
Published: December 2017

A new minireplicon (rep26 minireplicon) from pBMB26, the 188 kb indigenous plasmid related to spore‐crystal association (SCA) phenotype in Bacillus thuringiensis strain YBT‐020, was characterized. A 12 kb EcoRI fragment, which encoded 10 putative open reading frames (ORFs), was capable of supporting replication when cloned in a replication probe vector. Deletion and frame shift mutation analysis showed that a 4.1 kb region encompassing two putative ORFs (orf21 and orf22) was essential for the plasmid replication in B. thuringiensis. Gene orf21 encoding a 49.8 kDa protein (named Rep26) with a helix‐turn‐helix motif showed no homology with known replication proteins and gene orf22 encoding a protein of 82.6 kDa showed homology to bacterial PcrA helicase. The replication origin of rep26 minireplicon was proved to be located in the coding region of orf21. Plasmid stability experiments indicated that the recombinant plasmid containing rep26 minireplicon has excellent segregational stability. BLASTP analysis revealed that amino acid sequences of ORF21 and ORF22 were well conserved among Bacillus cereus group strains. The rep26 minireplicon was widely distributed and could be defined as a new typical replicon in the megaplasmids of B. cereus group.
Diffusion‐weighted imaging features of breast tumours and the surrounding stroma reflect intrinsic heterogeneous characteristics of molecular subtypes in breast cancer
Authors: Fan Ming , He Ting , Zhang Peng , Cheng Hu , Zhang Juan , Gao Xin , Li Lihua
Published: December 2017

Breast cancer heterogeneity is the main obstacle preventing the identification of patients with breast cancer with poor prognoses and treatment responses; however, such heterogeneity has not been well characterized. The purpose of this retrospective study was to reveal heterogeneous patterns in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) signals in tumours and the surrounding stroma to predict molecular subtypes of breast cancer. A dataset of 126 patients with breast cancer, who underwent preoperative diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) on a 3.0‐T image system, was collected. Breast images were segmented into regions comprising the tumour and surrounding stromal shells in which features that reflect heterogeneous ADC signal distribution were extracted. For each region, imaging features were computed, including the mean, minimum, variance, interquartile range (IQR), range, skewness, kurtosis and entropy of ADC values. Univariate and stepwise multivariate logistic regression modelling was performed to identify the magnetic resonance imaging features that optimally discriminate luminal A, luminal B, human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)‐enriched and basal‐like molecular subtypes. The performance of the predictive models was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that the skewness in the tumour boundary achieved an AUC of 0.718 for discrimination between luminal A and non‐luminal A tumours, whereas the IQR of the ADC value in the tumour boundary had an AUC of 0.703 for classification of the HER2‐enriched subtype. Imaging features in the tumour boundary and the proximal peritumoral stroma corresponded to a higher overall prediction performance than those in other regions. A multivariate logistic regression model combining features in all the regions achieved an overall AUC of 0.800 for the classification of the four tumour subtypes. These findings suggest that features in the tumour boundary and stroma around the tumour may be further assessed as potential predictors of molecular subtypes of breast cancer.
Lossless convexification of nonconvex MINLP on the UAV path‐planning problem
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Wang Jun , Li Jianxun
Published: December 2017

Most unmanned aerial vehicle path‐planning problems have been modeled as linear optimal control problems, ie, as mixed‐integer linear programming problems. However, most constraints cannot be described accurately in linear form in practical engineering applications. In this paper, the traditional unmanned aerial vehicle path‐planning problem is modified as a nonconvex mixed‐integer nonlinear programming problem, whose continuous relaxation is a nonconvex programming problem. A lossless convexification method is introduced into the generalized Benders decomposition algorithm framework. Thus, an optimal solution can be obtained without directly solving the nonconvex programming problem. The output of the proposed algorithm has been rigorously proved to be the optimal solution to the original problem. Meanwhile, the simulation results verify the validity of the theoretical analysis and demonstrate the superior efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Dysregulated mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling as an oncogenic basis for clear cell sarcoma of the kidney
Authors: Kenny Colin , McDonagh Naomi , Lazaro Antonio , O'Meara Elaine , Klinger Rut , O'Connor Darran , Roche Fiona , Hokamp Karsten , O'Sullivan Maureen J
Published: December 2017

The oncogenic mechanisms and tumour biology underpinning clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK), the second commonest paediatric renal malignancy, are poorly understood and currently, therapy depends heavily on doxorubicin with cardiotoxic side‐effects. Previously, we characterized the balanced t(10;17)(q22;p13) chromosomal translocation, identified at that time as the only recurrent genetic aberration in CCSK. This translocation results in an in‐frame fusion of the genes YWHAE (encoding 14‐3‐3ϵ) and NUTM2, with a somatic incidence of 12%. Clinico‐pathological features of that cohort suggested that this aberration might be associated with higher stage and grade disease. Since no primary CCSK cell line exists, we generated various stably transfected cell lines containing doxycycline‐inducible HA‐tagged YWHAE–NUTM2, in order to study the effect of expressing this transcript. 14‐3‐3ϵ–NUTM2‐expressing cells exhibited significantly greater cell migration compared to isogenic controls. Gene and protein expression studies were indicative of dysregulated MAPK/PI3K–AKT signalling, and by blocking these pathways using neutralizing antibodies, the migratory advantage conferred by the transcript was abrogated. Importantly, CCSK tumour samples similarly show up‐regulation/activation of these pathways. These results support the oncogenic role of 14‐3‐3ϵ–NUTM2 in CCSK and provide avenues for the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Opioid analgesic dose and the risk of misuse, overdose, and death: A narrative review
Authors: Coyle David Tyler , Pratt Chih‐Ying , Ocran‐Appiah Josephine , Secora Alex , Kornegay Cynthia , Staffa Judy
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Despite the rise in serious adverse events paralleling increased prescription opioid analgesic use in the United States over the past 2 decades, the association between opioid analgesic dose and the risk of serious adverse health outcomes is incompletely characterized. We sought to synthesize the medical literature for observational studies examining the association between opioid analgesic dose and the risk of serious adverse health outcomes, with particular attention to the outcomes of misuse, abuse, addiction, overdose, and death.

Methods

Searching MEDLINE using PubMed and bibliography review, we identified 22 observational studies published between 2000 and 2015 that assessed the association between opioid analgesic dose and the risk of serious adverse health outcomes. Some of these studies had significant methodological limitations. Twelve reviewed studies examined the outcomes of misuse, overdose, or death; no studies examining the risk of addiction or abuse met our criteria for inclusion.

Results

The results of multiple studies clearly indicate an increasing risk of serious adverse health outcomes associated with increasing opioid analgesic dose. In particular, the risk of misuse, overdose, and death increases with increasing opioid analgesic dose. However, there is no opioid dose inflection point beyond which the risk of these adverse health outcomes increases. No opioid analgesic dose is without risk.

Conclusions

The reviewed studies show an increasing risk of serious adverse health outcomes—including misuse, overdose, and death—associated with increasing opioid analgesic dose. Further research is needed to characterize the relationship between opioid analgesic dose and the risk of addiction and abuse. This analysis could inform policy actions for regulators and clinical decision making for providers.
Phosphoramidate‐functionalized Merrifield resin: synthesis and application in actinide separation
Authors: Das Dhrubajyoti , Sivaramakrishna Akella , Brahmmananda Rao CVS , Sivaraman N , Vijayakrishna Kari
Published: December 2017

A novel phosphoramidate‐functionalized polymeric resin was synthesized by anchoring diethyl (3‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)propyl)phosphoramidate group with chloromethylated polystyrene divinylbenzene resin. The grafted resin was characterized using elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared, solid‐state 31P NMR energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies, and thermogravimetric analysis. The surface morphology of the functionalized resin was investigated using scanning electron microscopy and the surface area was measured with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. Sorption affinities of the functionalized resin towards actinides such as Th(IV) and U(VI) were determined under various concentrations of nitric acid solution (0.01–6 mol L−1). Desorption of the actinides from the loaded resin was performed using a solution of 0.01 mol L−1 nitric acid. Reusability of the grafted resin was studied over various successive cycles and the stability of the functional groups on the synthesized resin was monitored using various analytical techniques. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of Cu‐deficient layer formation in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 solar‐cell performance
Authors: Nishimura Takahito , Toki Soma , Sugiura Hiroki , Nakada Kazuyoshi , Yamada Akira
Published: December 2017

Cu‐deficient layer (CDL) on Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) promotes Cd diffusion from CdS buffer layer and forms a valence band offset (ΔEV) between CDL and CIGS. We quantitively demonstrate the effects of CDL formation on the performance of CIGS solar cells through experiments and theoretical simulation. To investigate the effects of Cd diffusion and ΔEV by CDL, theoretical analysis was carried out for a CIGS solar cell with a surface layer which simulated the CDL at CdS/CIGS interface. It was revealed that when electron concentration in n‐type surface layer is higher than the absolute carrier concentration in CIGS absorber (ND > |NA, CIGS|), open‐circuit voltage and fill factor are improved. Additionally, ΔEV ≥ 0.15 eV leads to the highest open‐circuit voltage by suppression of interfacial recombination. Transmission electron microscope energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry and scanning spreading resistance microscopy were employed for the same cross section of a CIGS solar cell fabricated by three‐stage process. Despite CDL with Cu/(Ga + In) of 0.31 formed on the surface had high Cd contents of 3.4 at%, its carrier concentration of 4.8 × 1010 cm−3 was lower than that of 1014 –1016 cm−3 in grain interior owing to insufficient activation of Cd atoms. These results indicate the effectiveness of ΔEV formation by introducing CDL with low Cu/(Ga + In) of 0.31 to boost CIGS solar cell performance and difficulty in realizing ND > |NA, CIGS| by surface Cd doping.
Understanding the complexation of aliphatic and aromatic acids guests with octa acid
Authors: Choudhury Rajib , Ramamurthy Vaidhyanathan
Published: December 2017

In this study, inclusion of 10 guest molecules, adamantyl and naphthyl carboxylic acids with different structural and electronic properties, within a synthetic cavitand octa acid was probed by isothermal calorimetry, 1D and 2D 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and molecular dynamic simulations. Under the condition of the experiments (pH ~ 8.7), the guests were included as carboxylate anions with the polar anionic head group facing water and hydrophobic carbon skeleton buried within the cavitand, forming 1:1 host to guest complexes. Importance of weak interactions between the guest and the cavitand interior is reflected in the measured negative ΔH values. Although ΔH was negative for all guests, ΔS was positive for adamantyl guests and negative for naphthyl guests. Quite likely the difference in hydrophobicity between the 2 sets of molecules and the strength of interaction between the guest and the host are responsible for the sign difference in ΔS between the 2 series. The importance of steric factor during inclusion of naphthyl carboxylic acids within octa acid cavity is brought out by the difference in thermodynamic parameters between the 1‐ and 2‐substituted naphthyl carboxylic acids; 2‐naphthyl carboxylic acids that can penetrate deeply have larger −ΔH and 1‐naphthyl carboxylic acids that can only enter the cavity in an angle have smaller −ΔH. As expected, based on the well‐known concept of “enthalpy‐entropy compensation,” the molecules that have large −ΔH are accompanied by large −ΔS.
Factors associated with possible complicated grief and major depressive disorders
Authors: Aoyama Maho , Sakaguchi Yukihiro , Morita Tatsuya , Ogawa Asao , Fujisawa Daisuke , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: December 2017

Objective

Complicated grief (CG) is considered a distinctive symptom from other bereavement‐related mental impairments such as major depressive disorder (MDD). CG and MDD may appear independently or co‐morbidly; however, the factors associated with each situation are unclear.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide cross‐sectional questionnaire survey involving bereaved family members of cancer patients in 175 institutions. The following items were included in the questionnaires to assess the prevalence of CG and MDD, and the following associated factors: demographic characteristics; bereaved family depression (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9) and grief status (Brief Grief Questionnaire); structure and process of care (Care Evaluation Scale); overall care satisfaction; and achievement of a good death (Good Death Inventory).

Results

A total of 9123 questionnaires were returned. The prevalence of CG and MDD was 14% and 17%, respectively. Additionally, 58% of the possible CG participants showed co‐morbid symptoms. Common factors that showed significant association with either independent or co‐morbid symptoms of CG and MDD were pre‐existing mental impairment; belief in the survival of the soul after physical death; unpreparedness for the death; poor physical or psychological health status; and the belief that the deceased felt themselves as a burden to others (all P < 0.05). The duration of bereavement did not remain significant after multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

While there were many common factors associated with both CG and MDD independently, few participants exhibited associations to both CG and MDD. Therefore, CG and MDD can be considered as distinctive symptoms, which frequently appear co‐morbidly.
Dynamics of bed bug infestations in three low‐income housing communities with various bed bug management programs
Authors: Wang Changlu , Eiden Amanda , Singh Narinderpal , Zha Chen , Wang Desen , Cooper Richard
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Infestations of the common bed bug, Cimex lectularius L., have become common in low‐income communities in the USA over the last 15 years. We evaluated community‐based integrated pest management (IPM) programs for reducing bed bug infestations. Two housing authorities (Bayonne and Hackensack) implemented bed bug IPM programs. A third housing authority (Paterson) was used as the control site. Building‐wide surveys were conducted in all communities, three times, to evaluate the effectiveness of the IPM programs.

RESULTS

From 0 to 24 months, the infestation rate at Bayonne, Hackensack, and Paterson decreased by 49, 64, and 26%, respectively. The two sites that adopted IPM achieved faster bed bug elimination than the control site. The bed bug introduction rate over a 24‐month period at Bayonne, Hackensack, and Paterson was 7, 3, and 11%, respectively. The introduction rate was positively associated with the initial infestation rate. Residents from buildings enrolled in IPM programs were more satisfied with the bed bug control services than residents from the control site.

CONCLUSION

IPM programs were more effective in reducing bed bug infestations than traditional pest control services, but many factors contributed to the lower than desired level of reduction in infestation rate. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Psoralea corylifolia L: Ethnobotanical, biological, and chemical aspects: A review
Authors: Alam Fiaz , Khan Gul Nawaz , Asad Muhammad Hassham Hassan Bin
Published: December 2017

Psoralea corylifolia L. (Leguminosae) is a well‐known traditional medicinal plant used from ancient times for treatment of various ailments. It is widely distributed and an important part of therapeutics in Ayurveda and in Chinese medicines. The aim of this review is to present comprehensive and most up to date report on its ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, clinical, phytochemical, and side effects. Studies on the ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, clinical, phytochemical, and side effects of P. corylifolia were published until year 2017 and were searched using various scientific databases. The scientific literature searched revealed that these plant species has been extensively investigated in vivo and in vitro for various biological and phytochemical studies. It has cardiotonic, vasodilator, pigmentor, antitumor, antibacterial, cytotoxic, and anti‐helminthic properties and locally used for alopecia, inflammation, leukoderma, leprosy, psoriasis, and eczema. So far, about a hundred bioactive compounds have been isolated from seeds and fruits, and most important compounds identified belongs to coumarins, flavonoids, and meroterpenes groups. This review article summarized the most updated scientific literature on bioactive phytochemical and biological activities of P. corylifolia. This article will be a useful addition to providing information for future research, and more standard clinical trials are needed for the plant to be used as therapeutic agent.
Relevance of terrorism for Italian students not directly exposed to it: The affective impact of the 2015 Paris and the 2016 Brussels attacks
Authors: Raccanello Daniela , Burro Roberto , Brondino Margherita , Pasini Margherita
Published: December 2017

Notwithstanding the dramatically increasing frequency of acts of terrorism in Europe and the extent of their media coverage, there is lack of knowledge on people's affective reactions and associated emotion regulation strategies. We explored the affective impact on two cohorts of Italian students (n = 193) possibly exposed vicariously through the mass media to the 2015 Paris or the 2016 Brussels terrorist attacks, respectively. We accessed data from three online questionnaires: one on emotion regulation administered before each attack; one on daily affect administered just before and after each attack; and one on causes of weekly affect and life satisfaction administered at the end of the week in which each attack occurred. The attacks were perceived as relevant for influencing negative affect for 22% of the students. For them, suppression—less frequently used than reappraisal—was associated with an improvement of affect after each attack but negatively related to life satisfaction concerning the week in which the attacks occurred. Our data showed that the recent terrorist attacks occurring in Europe had an affective impact on people at some distance who were vicariously exposed and point to the protective role of emotion regulation as a key resource for individuals' well‐being.
Cover Image, Volume 8, Issue 1
Authors: Poongavanam Vasanthanathan , Namasivayam Vigneshwaran , Vanangamudi Murugesan , Al Shamaileh Hadi , Veedu Rakesh N , Kihlberg Jan , Murugan N Arul
Published: December 2017

The cover image, by Vasanthanathan Poongavanam et al., is based on the Overview Integrative approaches in HIV‐1 non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor design, DOI: 10.1002/wcms.1328.

image
Kopp, Lamb, Lavallée, Li, and Shaw Receive 2017 James B. Macelwane Medals
Authors:   AGU
Published: December 2017

Robert E. Kopp, Michael P. Lamb, Yan Lavallée, Wen Li, and Tiffany A. Shaw were awarded the 2017 James B. Macelwane Medal at the American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting Honors Ceremony, held on 13 December 2017 in New Orleans, La. The medal is for “significant contributions to the geophysical sciences by an outstanding early career scientist.”
Focus on Climate Solutions, Panelists Say
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2017

Time remains to prevent dangerous climate change if people take action now and don’t lose hope, climate experts said.
Unified wrench model of an ironless permanent magnet planar motor with 2D periodic magnetic field
Authors: Zhu Yu , Yuan Ding , Zhang Ming , Liu Feng , Hu Chuxiong
Published: December 2017

An ironless permanent magnet planar motor (IPMPM) is a promising multi‐degree‐of‐freedom driving device in many motion systems. In this study, a unified wrench model (UWM) of an IPMPM with two‐dimensional (2D) periodic magnetic field is proposed by transforming the integral terms of the Lorentz force. The UWM is available for coils with arbitrary shape and arbitrary orientation and describes the general form of the wrench excited by all the harmonic components of the magnetic field. The following investigation shows that the existing (semi‐) analytical models are special cases of the UWM. As a useful extension, a rapid modelling method based on the UWM is presented to reduce the modelling difficulty. Finally, the proposed UWM and the rapid modelling method are verified by triangular‐shaped coils in different orientations.
Control of Armyworms on Bell Pepper in West-Central Florida, Fall 1992
Authors: Schuster David J.
Published: December 2017

Transplants were set 2 Sep, 12 inches apart on 8-inch-high beds of EauGallie fine sand covered with white polyethylene mulch. Each plot consisted of a single row with rows on 5 ft centers. Treatments were replicated 4 times in a randomized complete blocks design and were applied with a 2.5 gal, hand-held CO2-powered sprayer on 28 Sep, 8, 15, 21, 28 Oct, 4, 11, 18 and 25 Nov. The sprayer was fitted with a single nozzle with a D-5 disk and #45 core and delivered 60 gpa at 60 psi. On 19 Oct and 9 Nov, the numbers of beet and southern armyworm larvae were counted on each plant. The data were combined over the sampling dates. On 10 Nov, the five plants in each plot most severely damaged by the broad mite were rated 1-4 for increasing damage. Fruit were harvested on 25 Nov, 9 and 16 Dec and the number and weight of undamaged fruit and the number and weight of fruit damaged by noctuid larvae were determined. Fruit with slight feeding damage only on the stem or calyx were considered marketable. Fruit with either slight or severe damage on the fruit wall were considered unmarketable.
Value of Di-Syston for Control of Colorado Potato Beetle, 1993
Authors: Noetzel David M. , Miller Jennifer
Published: December 2017

This is the second year of evaluating Di-Syston for any unique benefit for potato insect control in central Minnesota. The trial was established in an irrigated potato field. Individual plots were 4-38 inch rows 30 ft in length. Treatments were arranged in a RCB design and replicated 4 times. The soil treatment (Di-Syston 8E) was applied in 10 gpa water in a narrow band at plant (21 May). Di-Syston 20 G and Admire were applied on 4 Jun and were hilled under within 4 hours. Foliars were applied in 20 gpa total material at 40 psi pressure, using a hand held COz sprayer on 30 Jun, 21 Jul and 6 Aug.
Colorado Potato Beetle Control, Crookston, Mn 1993
Authors: Noetzel David M. , Miller Jennifer , Holder Bobby
Published: December 2017

The trial was established at the Northwest Experiment Station. This is dry land potato production on clay-like soils. Plot size was 4—10 inch rows 25 ft in length. Treatments were arranged in a RCB design and replicated 4 times. They were applied on 9, 22 Jul and 18 Aug. The soil application of Admire was made at potato emergence (17 Jun) in a 4 inch band over the row and hilled in. Soil treatment and foliars were applied in approximately 20 gpa of total material. Applications were made using a hand held CO2 sprayer with a nozzle pressure of 40 psi pressure. The entire plot area was treated twice with Rid-O-Mil for potato late blight control. The two center rows of each plot were harvested, weighed and recorded. Yields are reported in hundred weight (cwt) per acre.
Potato Insect Control, 1991
Authors: Slocombe A. C. , Ferro D. N.
Published: December 2017

Potatoes were planted on 7 May in South Deerfield, Massachusetts. Fertilizer (900 lbs 10N:10P:10K/ acre) was banded into the furrow at planting. Soil type was a fine sandy loam with a pH of 5.6. Manzate (fungicide) was applied at 1 lb. Al/acre on 14, 21, and 28 Jun and 11 and 18 Jul. CPB densities prior to first application were 2.9 adults, 8.2 egg masses, 16.3 early instars and 0.8 late instars per plant on 10 Jun. Treatments were replicated 4 times in a randomized complete block design. Each plot consisted of two 30 ft. rows with a 6 ft. fallow area between plots. Treatments were applied with COz-pressurized sprayers at 40 psi, delivering 70 gal/acre. Applications were made on 10, 17, and 24 Jun and 1 and 10 Jul. The first application of ECX9124EH was on 17 Jun. CPB population densities were determined by counting larvae on 10 whole stalks in each plot. To evaluate microbial insecticides M-Trak, Foil OF, Foil DF, ECX9124EH and Novodor, larvae were counted and recorded as early instars (first and second) or late instars (third and fourth). The performance of these materials was evaluated primarily by comparing late instars, as it took 4-5 days for the dead larvae to drop from the plants and early instars could have hatched between the last spray and the following count. The control plots were 70% defoliated when they were plowed under on 3 Jul.
Use of Cyromazine (Trigard 75 WP) in An Ipm Program to Control Colorado Potato Beetle, 1993
Authors: Speese John
Published: December 2017

Potatoes were planted on 16 Apr at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Experiment Station, Painter, VA. Each plot consisted of 6 rows 30 ft long, replicated 4 times in a randomized complete block design. Plant spacing was 10 inches with 36 inches between rows. Sprays were initiated on 25 May, during the week of peak CPB egg hatch. Plots treated with Trigard 75WP received a second Trigard application on 7 Jun for a total of two Trigard sprays/plot. The following CPB thresholds were used as an aid in determining subsequent spray materials and dates: 40 small larvae, 15 large larvae, or 5 adults/10 stems. All CPB life stages present were counted on 10 random stems/plot weekly. Two applications of Trigard at 0.25 lb AI and 0.50 lb AI gave seasonlong CPB control and only required applications of Cygon 400 (0.25 lb AI) on 10 and 17 Jun for PLH control. The plots treated with 0.125 lb AI and 0.25 + 0.125 lb AI of Trigard required an application of Asana XL + PBO on 17 Jun for CPB control. The Foil and Asana XL + PBO plots were treated on 25 May 2, 7, and 17 Jun. In the Foil plot, Cygon 400 (0.25 lb AI) was added on 7 Jun for PLH control, and Asana XL + PBO was used in place of Foil to control PLH and emerging, Fl CPB adults on 17 Jun. Sprays were applied in 40 gal water/acre using a tractor mounted sprayer or a backpack sprayer when it was too wet for the tractor. The center two rows of each plot were harvested and graded on 17 Jul to determine yields.
Use of Soil and Foliar Insecticides to Control Cucumber Beetles in Fall Squash, 1993
Authors: Speese John
Published: December 2017

Yellow squash were planted on 4 Aug at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Experiment Station, Painter, VA. Each plot consisted of a single 25 ft. row, bordered on each side by an untreated guard row. Row spacing was 5 ft. between rows and plots were replicated 4 times in a randomized, complete block design. Furadan was applied in furrow immediately prior to planting using a single hollow cone nozzle boom backpack sprayer. Foliar sprays were applied using a 3 hollow cone nozzle boom backpack sprayer delivering 45 gal water/acre at 40 psi. The plots treated with Furadan in furrow were sprayed on 13 and 22 Sep; the plots treated with foliar sprays only were sprayed on 30 Aug and 6, 13 and 22 Sep. Evaluation criteria consisted of insect counts of all species present and yields from 6 market feet of row. Plots were harvested on 15, 20 and 27 Sep and 5 Oct.
Control of Pests on Tomatoes, Summer, 1993
Authors: Rowland S. , Cartwright B. , Roberts B. W.
Published: December 2017

Seven week old tomato plants were transplanted into a Bernow series sandy loam soil covered with black plastic mulch on 13 May at the West Watkins AREC, Lane, OK. Plots measuring one row wide by 2.7 m long were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Rows were spaced 1.8 m apart and plants were spaced 46 cm apart. Plots were separated by a 1.8 m spray buffer within rows to minimize spray drift. Plants were grown using a trellising system and irrigated with surface level trickle irrigation. Soil fertility was adjusted according to OSU Extension recommendations based on an initial soil sample. All treatments were applied using a CO2-powered backpack sprayer calibrated on 3 May at 205 liters per acre. The spray boom was equipped with two TX-26 (hollow cone) nozzles spaced 46 cm apart. Both sides of each plot were sprayed with the boom positioned vertically to ensure adequate coverage of all foliage. All 1 × and 2X per week treatments were applied on 15, 22 and 29 Jun, 7, 13, 20 and 27 Jul and 3 Aug. 2X per week treatments were also applied on 18 and 25 Jun, 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 Jul and 6 Aug. Plots were harvested on 19 and 26 Jul and 2 and 9 Aug. Approximately 500 fruit per treatment were evaluated for SB, thrips, TFW and TPW damage. SB and thrips damage was rated according to the following scale: 1 = none, 2 = slight, 3 = moderate, 4 = heavy and 5 = severe. Fruit rated three or higher were considered unmarketable.
Control of Immature Sweetpotato Whitefly (SPWF) on Staked Tomato, Spring, 1992
Authors: Stansly P. A. , Cawley B. M.
Published: December 2017

Cultural practices and treatments as in report 121 E. Whitefly eggs and immatures were sampled every other week by examining four 10-mm disks per leaf sample, 2 on each side of the mid-vein. Eggs and crawlers were counted on 10 terminal leaflets per plot, collected from the youngest fully expanded leaves (usually 3rd leaf from apex). Small nymphs (1st and 2nd instar), large nymphs, and pupae were counted from a sample of ten terminal leaflets from the highest leaf on the plant with empty pupal cases—usually 7th or older.