bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adipose‐derived stem cells‐conditioned medium improved osteogenic differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells when grown on polycaprolactone nanofibers
Authors: Soleimanifar Fatemeh , Hosseini Fatemeh Sadat , Atabati Hadi , Behdari Asma , Kabiri Ladan , Enderami Seyed Ehsan , Khani Mohammad‐Mehdi , Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Saburi Ehsan
Published: October 2018

Considering that the common osteogenic growth factors cannot be transplanted with stem cells to the patients, many studies are underway to find a replacement for these factors. Recently, it has been determined that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived conditioned medium (CM) contains effective factors in the bone formation process. In the current study, the synergistic effect of adipose‐derived MSC’s CM, and polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold was investigated on the osteogenic differentiation potential of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). After scaffold fabrication by electrospinning and characterization by scanning electron microscopy, iPSCs proliferation in the presence of CM, PCL, and both was evaluated using 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide. Then, iPSCs osteogenic differentiation was investigated while cultured on tissue culture plate and PCL under CM compared with the osteogenic medium using alizarin red staining, calcium content, alkaline phosphatase activity and gene and protein expression analysis. Proliferation rate of the iPSCs was increased while cultured under CM and its effect was synergistically enhanced by culture on PCL. Evaluation of the osteogenic markers was showed CM alone could induce osteogenic differentiation into the iPSCs and this potential was significantly increased while combined with PCL nanofibrous scaffold. According to the results, it was demonstrated that CM has an osteogenic induction property almost the same of the common osteogenic medium and it can also be used potentially with stem cells when transplant to the patients. CM can also help by prolonging cell survival at the site of the defect as well as accelerating healing process.
Experimental ischaemic stroke induces transient cardiac atrophy and dysfunction
Authors: Veltkamp Roland , Uhlmann Stefan , Marinescu Marilena , Sticht Carsten , Finke Daniel , Gretz Norbert , Gröne Herrmann‐Josef , Katus Hugo A. , Backs Johannes , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: October 2018

Background

Stroke can lead to cardiac dysfunction in patients, but the mechanisms underlying the interaction between the injured brain and the heart are poorly understood. The objective of the study is to investigate the effects of experimental murine stroke on cardiac function and molecular signalling in the heart.

Methods and results

Mice were subjected to filament‐induced left middle cerebral artery occlusion for 30 or 60 min or sham surgery and underwent repetitive micro‐echocardiography. Left ventricular contractility was reduced early (24–72 h) but not late (2 months) after brain ischaemia. Cardiac dysfunction was accompanied by a release of high‐sensitive cardiac troponin (hsTNT (ng/ml): d1: 7.0 ± 1.0 vs. 25.0 ± 3.2*; d3: 7.3 ± 1.1 vs. 52.2 ± 16.7*; d14: 5.7 ± 0.8 vs. 5.2 ± 0.3; sham vs. 60 min. MCAO; mean ± SEM; *p < 0.05); reduced heart weight (heart weight/tibia length ratio: d1: 6.9 ± 0.2 vs. 6.4 ± 0.1*; d3: 6.7 ± 0.2 vs. 5.8 ± 0.1*; d14: 6.7 ± 0.2 vs. 6.4 ± 03; sham vs. 60 min. MCAO; mean ± SEM; *p < 0.05); resulting from cardiomyocyte atrophy (cardiomyocyte size: d1: 12.8% ± 0.002**; d3: 13.5% ± 0.002**; 14d: 6.3% ± 0.003*; 60 min. MCAO vs. sham; mean ± SEM; **p < 0.01; *p < 0.05), accompanied by increased atrogin‐1 and the E3 ubiquitin ligase murf‐1. Net norepinephrine but not synthesis was increased, suggesting a reduced norepinephrine release or an increase of norepinephrine re‐uptake, resulting in a functional denervation. Transcriptome analysis in cardiac tissue identified the transcription factor peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma as a potential mediator of stroke‐induced transcriptional dysregulation involved in cardiac atrophy.

Conclusions

Stroke induces a complex molecular response in the heart muscle with immediate but transient cardiac atrophy and dysfunction.
Left ventricular rotation and torsion in neonates and infants younger than three months with symptomatic ventricular septal defect: Acute effects from open heart surgery
Authors: Kwon Jung Eun , Kim Yeo Hyang
Published: October 2018

Purpose

We evaluated ventricular rotation, torsion, and strain changes in infants using preoperative and postoperative M‐mode echocardiography after early surgery for symptomatic ventricular septal defects (VSD).

Methods

Thirty‐five patients with VSD underwent vector velocity imaging echocardiography before and after open heart surgery. Their rotational variables were compared with 18 controls.

Results

All the patients (19 boys and 16 girls; median age: 44.4 days; range: 13‐84 days) showed normal septal motion preoperatively; however, septal motion changed into flat septum or paradoxical septal motion after surgery. Left ventricular end‐diastolic internal dimension and fractional shortening significantly decreased after surgery (P = .001 and P = .000). Patients showed significant postoperative reduction of peak systolic apical rotation and maximal torsion (P = .010 and P = .000). Peak systolic basal rotation decreased after surgery but it was not significantly (P = .106). No significant differences were found in longitudinal and circumferential systolic strains between patients and controls.

Conclusion

Abnormal motion of the ventricular septum was confirmed by postoperative M‐mode echocardiography. Decreased rotation/torsion variables may reflect postoperative changes of ventricular loading conditions. Because systolic strain was preserved, postoperative echocardiographic results should not be interpreted as abnormal or decreased ventricular function.
Hemochromatosis associated with cholelithiasis as a cause of hydrops fetalis and stillbirth: Prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Darouich Sihem , Boujelbène Nadia , Amraoui Jihen , Amraoui Naima , Masmoudi Aida
Published: October 2018

Prenatal diagnosis of neonatal hemochromatosis (NH) is usually raised in front of fetal hepatomegaly and heterogeneous liver architecture. We describe a novel sonographic feature that may be associated with NH. Ultrasound demonstrated reticulonodular liver and distended gallbladder with multiple gallstones in a hydropic fetus. These abnormalities were confirmed to be consistent with NH after correlation with autopsy findings. This case report highlights the value of cholelithiasis in clinical suspicion of NH and the importance to consider this sonographic feature when the liver has abnormal texture.
Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Anti‐Mycobacterial Activities of Tetraethylene Glycol Tethered Isatin Dimers
Authors: Zhao Shi‐Jia , Lv Zao‐Sheng , Shi Lin , Zhao Shuang‐Qi , Xu Zhi
Published: October 2018

A new class of istain dimers tethered by tetraethylene glycol was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and multidrug‐resistant M. tuberculosis strains. Our results indicated that all the synthesized hybrids exhibited promising anti‐mycobacterial activities against the tested strains and the enriched structure–activity relationship may pave the way to further rational development of istain dimers with a unique mechanism of action different from that of the currently used drugs to overcome the resistance.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Some Phenyl Substituted Azetidine Containing 1, 2, 4‐triazole Derivatives as Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Dhall Esha , Jain Sonika , Mishra Achal , Dwivedi Jaya , Sharma Swapnil
Published: October 2018

A novel series of phenyl substituted azetidine containing 1, 2, 4‐triazole derivatives 7(a–j) were synthesized and characterized by IR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and mass spectroscopy. Synthesized 1, 2, 4‐triazole derivatives were subsequently assayed in vitro to investigate their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli using broth dilution method. Compounds 7c, 7d, and 7e exhibited potent inhibitory activities as compared to standard cefotaxime. Further, fluorescence spectral studies were also carried out to ascertain the antibacterial potential of compound 7c against two bacterial strains, that is, P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. In docking studies, all the compounds exhibited good docking scores between −12.04 and −11.36 kcal/mol and indicated that compounds could act through inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase (PDB ID 3U2D). Among all, 7c has shown the maximum docking score and found in agreement to in vitro studies. In conclusion, synthesized 1, 2, 4‐triazole derivatives holds substantial caliber to be categorized as antibacterial agents.
Exploring the prevalence and experience of mask anxiety for the person with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: Nixon Jodie L. , Cartmill Bena , Turner Jane , Pigott Amanda E. , Brown Elizabeth , Wall Laurelie R. , Ward Elizabeth C. , Porceddu Sandro V.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

While use of a thermoplastic mask during radiotherapy (RT) treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) is an essential component of safe patient care, there is little understanding of the extent to which this evokes anxiety (i.e. “mask anxiety”) for the person undergoing treatment.

Methods

A mixed method, convergent design was used to examine the prevalence and experience of mask anxiety using two clinical cohorts. In phase one, a cohort of 100 patients undergoing RT for HNC were assessed for self‐perceived mask anxiety using a modified distress thermometer screening tool. In phase two, a separate cohort of 20 patients who identified as having mask anxiety participated in individual interpretative descriptive interviews to explore the nature of their experience.

Results

In phase one, 26% of participants self‐identified as being anxious about the use of a thermoplastic mask. In phase two thematic analysis of the interviews revealed two over‐arching themes relating to the person's experience of mask anxiety: contributors to the mask anxiety (vulnerability, response to experience and expectations); and how the person was going to manage the mask anxiety during treatment (strategies and mindset).

Conclusions

Mask anxiety impacted a quarter of participants undergoing radiotherapy for HNC. In line with the themes elicited from the participants, implementation of routine screening to ensure early identification, and patient education to assist preparation for wearing the mask during RT are strategies that could improve current management of mask anxiety.
“Embedded” at hire? Predicting the voluntary and involuntary turnover of new employees
Authors: Rubenstein Alex L. , Kammeyer‐Mueller John D. , Wang Mo , Thundiyil Tomas G.
Published: October 2018

Embeddedness theory has been invoked to describe factors that constrain employee turnover, such as fit with the environment, interpersonal links, and potentially sacrificed benefits. In contrast with previous assumptions that embeddedness requires considerable time to develop on the job, we extend theory by demonstrating how biographical characteristics (i.e., biodata), assessed at or before the point of hire, are related to individual's propensity to be embedded, while also showing how such characteristics predict one's future turnover likelihood. Beyond voluntary turnover, we also build embeddedness‐based theoretical explanations for involuntary turnover (i.e., terminations). To test these ideas, we conducted two studies at and before employees' point of hire, respectively: Study 1 examined how assessed biodata items of new employees relate to established embeddedness measures, whereas Study 2 linked the same biodata items assessed during the application process to employees' future involuntary, avoidable voluntary, and unavoidable voluntary turnover. Study 1 results revealed various biodata items predicted embeddedness in two distinct samples. In Study 2, results showed that biodata predicted turnover forms in unique ways. Our study highlights the utility of point‐of‐hire embeddedness propensity as a means to explain organizational exit, thereby demonstrating how organizations can use embeddedness tenets for employee recruitment and selection purposes.
Effects of large‐scale climate anomalies on crop reference evapotranspiration in the main grain‐production area of China
Authors: Liu Bingjun , Huang Zeqin , Chen Xiuhong , Wang Zhaoli
Published: October 2018

Crop reference evapotranspiration (ET0), which connects the energy and water balance, is an important indicator used in water resource management and agricultural production. On the basis of daily meteorological data from 479 observation stations, we investigate changes in ET0 and associated climate factors across the main grain‐producing area (MGPA) of China from 1960 to 2015. The Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator were applied to detect trends in ET0, and regression analyses and composite analyses were used to evaluate the contributions of climatic variables and large‐scale anomalies that may affect ET0. The results of this study show that ET0 in the MGPA decreased (−2.67 mm/decade) during summer throughout the past 56 years, and that this change is largely attributable to decreased sunshine duration and wind speed (WS). Furthermore, decreased WSs in the 850‐hpa geostrophic wind field, are responsible for decreases in ET0 in Northeast China Region (−1.85 mm/decade), which affect ET0 by significantly weakening the observed surface WS. Meanwhile, significant low cloud cover variations accounted for the decrease in ET0 in the Huang‐Huai‐Hai Region (−7.85 mm/decade), Loess Plateau Region (−2.91 mm/decade), Yangtze River Region (−3.96 mm/decade), and Southwest China Region (−2.71 mm/decade). However, decreases in the integrated atmospheric water vapour content (IWVC), which act to weaken the surface relative humidity, are hypothesised to increase ET0 in the South China Region (1.25 mm/decade).
A reappraisal of the thermal growing season length across Europe
Authors: Cornes Richard C. , van der Schrier Gerard , Squintu Antonello A.
Published: October 2018

Growing season length (GSL) indices derived from surface air temperature are frequently used in climate monitoring applications. The widely used Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices (ETCCDI) definition aims to give a broadly applicable measure of the GSL that is indicative of the duration of the mild part of the year. In this paper long‐term trends in that index are compared with an alternative measure calculated using a time series decomposition technique (empirical ensemble mode decomposition [EEMD]). It is demonstrated that the ETCCDI index departs from the mild‐season definition as its start and end dates are determined by temperature events operating within the synoptic timescale; this raises the inter‐annual variance of the index. The EEMD‐derived index provides a less noisy and more realistic index of the GSL by filtering out the synoptic‐scale variance and capturing the annual‐cycle and longer timescale variability. Long‐term trends in the GSL are comparable between the two indices, with an average increase in length of around 5 days/decade observed for the period 1965–2016. However, the results using the EEMD index display a more coherent picture of significant trends than has been previously observed. Furthermore, the EEMD‐derived growing season parameters are more closely related to variations in seasonal‐mean hemispheric‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns, with around 57% of the inter‐annual variation in the start of the growing season being connected to the North Atlantic Oscillation and East Atlantic patterns, and around 55% of variation in the end of the growing season being associated with East Atlantic/west Russia‐type patterns.
Good correlation between bone tracer uptake in SPECT/CT and intraoperative findings of chondral lesions graded with the ICRS scoring
Authors: Ammann Nora , Schiapparelli Filippo‐Franco , Moser Lukas B. , Rasch Helmut , Amsler Felix , Hirschmann Michael T.
Published: October 2018

The question if bone tracer uptake in SPECT/CT reflects the intraoperative cartilage status of the knee is still unanswered. In this study, thirty‐three consecutive patients (male:female = 11:22; mean age ± standard deviation 61 ± 15) with bi‐ or tri‐compartmental knee osteoarthritis who underwent SPECT/CT before total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were collected. The knee was graded in eleven different anatomical regions. In each region, the maximal relative bone tracer uptake (mrBTU) was measured twice by two observers with a six weeks interval. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) showed excellent correlations and mean values were used. Intraoperatively every region was assessed with the macroscopic International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) scoring. A factorial analysis and a non‐parametrical Spearman's correlation were calculated among the 11 knee regions on both mrBTU and ICRS scores and significant correlations were seen between regions belonging to the same knee compartment (p < 0.05). A non‐parametrical Spearman's correlation was also performed to investigate the correlation between rmBTU in SPECT/CT and intraoperative ICRS cartilage grading. Significant correlations were seen on the medial compartment, on the proximal femoral trochlea and on the medial patellar facet (p < 0.05). A significant correlation between SPECT/CT and intraoperative findings was so demonstrated in several regions. The low accuracy of the macroscopic ICRS scoring system on grade I–II lesions could have affected the missing correlations on the lateral compartment since the selected presented mainly a varus gonarthrosis. The use of an objective measure as the rmBTU could overcome the limit of the subjectivity of MRI findings in early osteoarthritis. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:522–528, 2019.
Low frequency pulsed electromagnetic field promotes the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Li Ziyu , Yao Fei , Cheng Li , Cheng Wendan , Qi Lei , Yu Shuisheng , Zhang Liqian , Zha Xiaowei , Jing Juehua
Published: October 2018

Low frequency pulsed electromagnetic field (LFPEMF) has been shown to provide anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative effects. However, there are no reports on whether LFPEMF can treat spinal cord injury (SCI) and its therapeutic mechanism. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate whether LFPEMF can promote the recovery of neurological function after SCI in rats and its therapeutic mechanism. Basso‐Beattie‐Bresnahan (BBB) score and transcranial magnetic motor‐evoked potentials (tcMMEPs) were recorded to assess the recovery of neurological function. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and luxol fast blue (LFB) staining were performed to assess the severity of SCI. Immunofluorescence (IF) staining and western blotting (WB) were performed to assess the differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) into oligodendrocytes (OLs). Toluidine blue (TB) staining was performed to assess remyelination. WB and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed to assess the expression of neurotrophins and inflammatory factors. Our results showed that following stimulation by LFPEMF, there were significant improvements in BBB scores, tcMMEP amplitudes, the extent of the damage, and reduced demyelination in rats after SCI. The mature OLs, the number of well‐myelinated fibers, and the myelin sheath thickness significantly increased in rats stimulated by LFPEMF after SCI. The expression of neurotrophins significantly increased, and the expression of inflammatory factors significantly decreased in rats stimulated by LFPEMF after SCI. Therefore, we suggest that LFPEMF can promote the recovery of neurological function in rats after SCI by improving the differentiation of OPCs into OLs and promoting remyelination, as well as by inhibiting inflammation and promoting neurotrophic effects. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:449–456, 2019.
The economic growth and development effects of China's One Belt, One Road Initiative
Authors: Enderwick Peter
Published: October 2018

China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative should increase the efficiency of resource movements and trade, integrate previously marginalized regions and economies, and strengthen China's economic and strategic position. The article evaluates the likely economic impact on trade and growth of China's OBOR initiative. It examines approaches based on historical experience, comparable program, and simulations. It finds that its benefits will not be shared equally, and unsurprisingly, China is the primary beneficiary. The complexity, embryonic stage, and significant challenges surrounding the initiative mean that any evaluation is highly tentative.
China's outward foreign direct investment to Bangladesh: Perspectives of the host country stakeholders
Authors: Wahed Mohammad Shakil , Rahman Mizan
Published: October 2018

For Chinese FDI enterprises in Bangladesh, the business community has emerged as a “dangerous stakeholder” group, while both the labor community and policymakers have emerged as “dominant stakeholder” groups under the broad class of expectant stakeholders. In many countries, there have been critical reactions to the emergence of Chinese multinationals as foreign investors.
What's good for business growth: Implications of innovativeness and price sensitivity for firms in developing countries
Authors: Hasan Rajibul , Jha Ashish Kumar
Published: October 2018

There are selective innovative features and reasons for innovation that drive firm growth. Various reasons are analyzed which are behind the innovation decisions undertaken by the firms and innovative features' effects on revenue growth in Bangladeshi firms to better understand the preferred determinants in certain geographic areas. This research investigates how the features of firm‐level innovation and the reasons to launch it can affect the revenue growth of firms in developing countries. The findings suggest innovative features that are less expensive to offer lead to higher revenue growth and offer strategic implications for firms implementing innovations in developing countries.
Foreign direct investment in Brazil: A positive perspective of the future
Authors: Bernardi Amanda , Floyd David
Published: October 2018

Brazil is a place for long‐term investments, but it is losing its attractiveness to the foreign market while factors such as location and ease of implementation of the business are the only determinants of the investor. Basic education, political stability, and fiscal reforms have been identified as areas having implications for policy making.
The Effects of Amide Bonds and Aromatic Rings on the Surface Properties and Antimicrobial Activity of Cationic Surfactants
Authors: He Xianyou , Wang Liyan , Wu Jianglei , Yang Jia , Ma Wenhui , Bai Liming , Zhao Bing , Song Bo
Published: October 2018

The cationic surfactants containing aromatic rings and amide bonds, N,N‐dimethyl‐N‐dodecyl‐2‐pyrimidinylcarbamoylmethyl ammonium chloride (a), N,N‐dimethyl‐N‐dodecyl‐2‐thiazolylcarbamoylmethyl ammonium chloride (b), and N,N‐dimethyl‐N‐dodecyl‐phenylcarbamoylmethyl ammonium chloride (c), were synthesized and characterized. The surface tension and conductivity values were employed to investigate the absorption and micellization behavior of the three cationic surfactants. The results showed that the synthesized surfactants have shown a low critical micelle concentration (CMC) and a high adsorption efficiency (pC20) compared with the traditional cationic surfactant of N,N‐dimethyl‐N‐dodecyl‐N‐benzyl ammonium chloride (BAC‐12). The aromatic rings of the a, b, and c molecular structures were analyzed using the 1H NMR spectra for electrostatic repulsion effects between hydrophilic headgroups. The size distribution of the micelles was derived using dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. In addition, the foaming ability of a, b, c, and BAC‐12 was investigated and the antimicrobial activity of a, b, c, and BAC‐12 against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis was examined. The effects of amide bonds and aromatic rings on the surface properties and antimicrobial activity of a, b, and c were analyzed and compared with BAC‐12 of the same alkyl chain length. The synthesized surfactants exhibited a high surface ability and better antibacterial activity compared with BAC‐12.
Green extraction of mulberry anthocyanin with improved stability using β‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Xie Jiahong , Xu Yang , Shishir Mohammad RI , Zheng Xiaodong , Chen Wei
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Mulberry anthocyanin is reported to possess various biological activities and it is unstable during extraction or food production. The use of organic solvents for extraction of mulberry anthocyanins may cause environmental pollution and safety concerns. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a green extraction solvent (cyclodextrin) on the recovery of anthocyanin from mulberry fruits, as well as the thermal stability of anthocyanin.

RESULTS

β‐Cyclodextrin (β‐CD) or hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin showed better anthocyanin extraction efficiency than water and ethanol aqueous solution for all tested mulberry cultivars. A molecular docking study indicated that anthocyanin (cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside) was encapsulated in the cavity of β‐CD, thus enhancing the solubility of anthocyanin. The extraction process was subsequently optimized using a Box–Behnken design. The optimal extraction conditions for anthocyanin and antioxidant activity were found at extraction temperature of 20 °C, extraction time of 44.95 min and β‐CD concentration of 45 g L−1. Furthermore, a degradation kinetic study demonstrated that addition of β‐CD could significantly improve the thermal stability of anthocyanin during extraction, with the activation energy of anthocyanin degradation increasing from 63.06 to 76.77 kJ mol−1.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our study suggests that β‐CD is an alternative green extraction solvent for the recovery of anthocyanins, and addition of β‐CD may potentially increase the thermal stability of anthocyanin during the extraction, which may give guidance for functional beverage production. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of total phenolic content in virgin olive oil using fluorescence excitation–emission spectroscopy coupled with chemometrics
Authors: Squeo Giacomo , Caponio Francesco , Paradiso Vito M , Summo Carmine , Pasqualone Antonella , Khmelinskii Igor , Sikorska Ewa
Published: October 2018

Background

Determination of the total phenolic content (TPC) in olive oils is of great interest, as phenolic compounds affect the health benefits, sensory attributes and oxidative stability of olive oils. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of direct front‐face fluorescence measurements coupled with chemometrics for developing multivatiate models for discrimination between virgin olive oils with low and high TPC and determination of TPC concentration.

Results

Parallel factor analysis and principal component analysis of fluorescence excitation–emission matrices (EEMs) of virgin olive oils revealed different fluorescent properties for samples with low and high TPC. A perfect discrimination of oils with low and high TPC was achieved using partial least squares (PLS) discriminant analysis. The best regression model for the prediction of TPC was based on the PLS analysis of the unfolded entire EEMs (R2 = 0.951, RPD = 4.0).

Conclusions

The results show the potential of fluorescence spectroscopy for direct screening of virgin olive oils for TPC. This may contribute to the development of fast screening methods for TPC assessment, providing an alternative to conventional assays. The procedure is environmentally friendly and fulfils the requirements for green analytical chemistry. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
How Many Cores Does Systematic Prostate Biopsy Need?: A Large‐Sample Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Hu Zhengming , Wang Jinrui , Sun Desheng , Cui Ligang , Ran Weiqiang
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To explore the best individualized systematic prostate biopsy method.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 1211 patients who underwent 12‐core systematic prostate biopsy guided by transrectal ultrasound from January 2011 to March 2018. Other biopsy core methods (6‐, 8‐, and 10‐core) were estimated from the 12‐core biopsy that was performed. Differences in the detection rates of prostate cancer (PCa) and clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) were compared.

Results

A total of 498 cases of PCa (41.1%) were detected, and 423 cases (34.9%) were csPCa. There was no significant difference between the 12‐ and 10‐core prostate biopsy strategies in the total detection rates of PCa and csPCa (P > .05). In the subgroup of patients with a maximal prostate cross‐sectional area of less than 15 cm2, there was a significant difference between the 12‐core method and the standard 6‐core method (P = .03) but no significant differences between the other methods in the detection rate of PCa (P > .05), but in the detection rate of csPCa, the 12‐core method differed significantly from the other methods (P = .02–.04) except for the 10‐core method (P > .05). In patients with a prostate‐specific antigen concentration of 20 ng/mL or higher, there were no significant differences between the 12‐core method and all of the other methods (P > 0.05). In patients younger than 70 years and 70 years or older, the 12‐core method differed significantly from the other methods (P < .01–.03) except for the 10‐core method (P > .05).

Conclusions

Ten‐ or 12‐core biopsy showed a higher detection rate than the other schemes. However, for patients with a prostate‐specific antigen concentration of 20 ng/mL or higher, the 6‐core systematic biopsy is preferred.
An underwater video system to assess abundance and behavior of epibenthic Mysis
Authors: O'Malley Brian P. , Dillon Rebecca A. , Paddock Robert W. , Hansson Sture , Stockwell Jason D.
Published: October 2018

Abstract

The application of remote video technologies can provide alternative views of in situ behavior and distribution of aquatic organisms that might be missed with traditional net‐based techniques. We describe a remote benthic video camera system designed to quantify epibenthic density of the macroinvertebrate Mysis diluviana. We deployed the camera multiple times during the day and night at a 60‐m depth site in Lake Champlain and quantified Mysis density from the footage using basic methods and readily available software. Density estimates from the video were on average 43 times higher than concurrent estimates from benthic sled tows, suggesting sleds may be inefficient at sampling mysids. Deployment caused initial scattering of individuals, resulting in low densities immediately after deployment that slowly increased. On some occasions, Mysis densities on video fluctuated greatly over several hours, consistent with organisms that have a patchy distribution on the lake bottom. The camera system provided novel insights on behavior and distribution of Mysis on benthic habitats, demonstrating potential for use as a tool to study partial diel vertical migration and predator–prey interactions.
To pursue personality or conformity: A study on the impact of face view on consumers’ need for uniqueness
Authors: Geng Lihui , Yang Yawen , Xu Yong
Published: October 2018

Chinese people are very focused on “face,” the desire to pursue face, and the fear of losing face. Face has a broad and profound impact on the behavior of Chinese consumers. By adopting Zhang's face dimension method, this study divides consumers’ face view into “the desire to gain face” and “the fear of losing face,” and develops a model to investigate their impacts on consumers’ need for uniqueness. Data from 360 college students and graduate students were used to validate the proposed model through structural equation modeling. Results show that the desire to gain face and the fear of losing face have indirect effects on consumers’ need for uniqueness, with the mediation of independent self‐construal and consumer's susceptibility to normative influence. The study provides both theoretical and managerial contributions, and a new perspective to better understand Chinese consumers’ face view and consumers’ need for uniqueness. Managerially, the study offers suggestions for consumers about how to properly obtain face, for enterprises about how to formulate targeted marketing strategies using consumers’ face view, and for the government on how to guide consumption trends through consumers’ face mentality.
Decreased biofilm formation ability of Acinetobacter baumannii after spaceflight on China's Shenzhou 11 spacecraft
Authors: Zhao Xian , Yu Yi , Zhang Xuelin , Huang Bing , Bai Po , Xu Chou , Li Diangeng , Zhang Bin , Liu Changting
Published: October 2018

China has prepared for construction of a space station by the early 2020s. The mission will require astronauts to stay on the space station for at least 180 days. Microbes isolated from the International Space Station (ISS) have shown profound resistance to clinical antibiotics and environmental stresses. Previous studies have demonstrated that the space environment could affect microbial survival, growth, virulence, biofilms, metabolism, as well as their antibiotic‐resistant phenotypes. Furthermore, several studies have reported that astronauts experience a decline in their immunity during long‐duration spaceflights. Monitoring microbiomes in the ISS or the spacecraft will be beneficial for the prevention of infection among the astronauts during spaceflight. The development of a manned space program worldwide not only provides an opportunity to investigate the impact of this extreme environment on opportunistic pathogenic microbes, but also offers a unique platform to detect mutations in pathogenic bacteria. Various microorganisms have been carried on a spacecraft for academic purposes. Acinetobacter baumannii is a common multidrug‐resistant bacterium often prevalent in hospitals. Variations in the ability to cope with environmental hazards increase the chances of microbial survival. Our study aimed to compare phenotypic variations and analyze genomic and transcriptomic variations in A. baumannii among three different groups: SS1 (33 days on the Shenzhou 11 spacecraft), GS1 (ground control), and Aba (reference strain). Consequently, the biofilm formation ability of the SS1 strain decreased after 33 days of spaceflight. Furthermore, high‐throughput sequencing revealed that some differentially expressed genes were downregulated in the SS1 strain compared with those in the GS1 strain. In conclusion, this present study provides insights into the environmental adaptation of A. baumannii and might be useful for understanding changes in the opportunistic pathogenic microbes on our spacecraft and on China's future ISS.
A basic fibroblast growth factor slow‐release system combined to a biodegradable nerve conduit improves endothelial cell and Schwann cell proliferation: A preliminary study in a rat model
Authors: Fukuda Tomokazu , Kusuhara Hirohisa , Nakagoshi Takuya , Isogai Noritaka , Sueyoshi Yu
Published: October 2018

Background

A basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) slow‐release system was combined to a biodegradable nerve conduit with the hypothesis this slow‐release system would increase the capacity to promote nerve vascularization and Schwann cell proliferation in a rat model.

Materials and Methods

Slow‐release of bFGF was determined using Enzyme‐Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). A total of 60 rats were used to create a 10 mm gap in the sciatic nerve. A polyglycolic acid‐based nerve conduit was used to bridge the gap, either without or with a bFGF slow‐release incorporated around the conduit (n = 30 in each group). At 2 (n = 6), 4 (n = 6), 8 (n = 6), and 20 (n = 12) weeks after surgery, samples were resected and subjected to histological, immunohistochemical, and transmission electron microscopic evaluation for nerve regeneration.

Results

Continuous release of bFGF was found during the observation period of 2 weeks. After in vivo implantation of the nerve conduit, greater endothelial cell migration and vascularization resulted at 2 weeks (proximal: 20.0 ± 2.0 vs. 12.7 ± 2.1, P = .01, middle: 17.3 ± 3.5 vs. 8.7 ± 3.2, P = .03). Schwann cells showed a trend toward greater proliferation and axonal growth had significant elongation (4.9 ± 1.1 mm vs. 2.8 ± 1.5 mm, P = .04) at 4 weeks after implantation. The number of myelinated nerve fibers, indicating nerve maturation, were increased 20 weeks after implantation (proximal: 83.3 ± 7.5 vs. 53.3 ± 5.5, P = .06, distal: 71.0 ± 12.5 vs. 44.0 ± 11.1, P = .04).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the bFGF slow‐release system improves nerve vascularization and Schwann cell proliferation through the biodegradable nerve conduit.
Dynamics of the degenerate 2D Ricker equation
Authors: Ryals Brian
Published: October 2018

The dynamics of the 2D Ricker equation depend on the positioning of its isoclines. We give a complete description for the parameter values where the two isoclines overlap. In this case, we show the plane is covered by a family of invariant curves and that the restriction to each is conjugate to a family of one‐dimensional population maps. Properties of these 1D maps, including global stability, are established, and we discuss the implications for the 2D Ricker equation.
Exponential stability of pseudo almost periodic delayed Nicholson‐type system with patch structure
Authors: Wang Wentao , Liu Fuyao , Chen Wei
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we consider the existence and global exponential stability of positive pseudo almost periodic solutions for a delayed Nicholson‐type system with patch structure. With the aid of ergodic theory and differential inequality technique, we prove the existence and global exponential stability of positive pseudo almost periodic solutions for the addressed system, which generalize and improve some known results. Specially, an example and its numerical simulations are provided to manifest the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Food‐Derived Xeno‐microRNAs: Influence of Diet and Detectability in Gastrointestinal Tract—Proof‐of‐Principle Study
Authors: Link Jastin , Thon Cosima , Schanze Denny , Steponaitiene Ruta , Kupcinskas Juozas , Zenker Martin , Canbay Ali , Malfertheiner Peter , Link Alexander
Published: October 2018

Scope

Diet is amongst the most crucial factors contributing to the multistep process of carcinogenesis. The role of exogenous microRNAs (miRNAs) is still debatable. In this proof‐of‐principle work, the presence of miRNAs in a variety of foods, its stability to processing, and detectability in GI mucosa and feces are studied and the effect of short‐term diet on human‐ or plant‐derived miRNAs in feces and blood is examined.

Methods and results

Animal and plant miRNAs are detected in all foods irrespective of processing. Animal‐derived foods showed the highest miRNA level and the lowest is found in cheese and milk. The impact of the short‐term vegetarian or meat‐rich diet on blood and feces miRNA is evaluated in healthy subjects using qPCR and Affymetrix profiling. Diet is not associated with changes in ultraconserved miRNAs. However, a vegetarian diet is associated with an increase of miR‐168 in feces but not in blood. Overall, plant miR‐168 is detectable in normal GI mucosa and in colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

Food provides a great source of miRNAs and diet may be associated with changes in xenomiRs. Plant‐derived miR‐168 is ubiquitously present in feces, normal mucosa, and cancer. Further studies are needed to evaluate the functional interaction between diet‐derived miRNAs and GI tract.
Combined Consumption of Beef‐Based Cooked Mince and Sucrose Stimulates Oxidative Stress, Cardiac Hypertrophy, and Colonic Outgrowth of Desulfovibrionaceae in Rats
Authors: Van Hecke Thomas , De Vrieze Jo , Boon Nico , De Vos Winnok H. , Vossen Els , De Smet Stefaan
Published: October 2018

Scope

High red meat and sucrose consumption increases the epidemiological risk for chronic diseases. Mechanistic hypotheses include alterations in oxidative status, gut microbiome, fat deposition, and low‐grade inflammation.

Methods and results

For 2 weeks, 40 rats consumed a diet high in white or red meat (chicken‐based or beef‐based cooked mince, respectively), and containing corn starch or sucrose in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Lard was mixed with lean chicken or beef to obtain comparable dietary fatty acid profiles. Beef (vs chicken)‐fed rats had higher lipid oxidation products (malondialdehyde, 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal, and hexanal) in stomach content and blood, and lower blood glutathione. Sucrose (vs corn starch)‐fed rats showed increased blood lipid oxidation products and glutathione peroxidase activity, higher liver weight and malondialdehyde concentrations, and mesenterial and retroperitoneal fat accumulation. Beef–sucrose‐fed rats had increased cardiac weight, suggesting pathophysiological effects on the cardiovascular system. The colonic microbiome of beef–sucrose‐fed rats showed an outgrowth of the sulfate‐reducing family of the Desulfovibrionaceae, and lower abundance of theLactobacillusgenus, indicating intestinal dysbiosis. Blood C‐reactive protein, a marker for inflammation, was not different among groups.

Conclusions

Consumption of a cooked beef‐based meat product with sucrose increased oxidative stress parameters and promoted cardiac hypertrophy and intestinal dysbiosis.
Decoupling of Two Closely‐Spaced Planar Monopole Antennas Using Two Novel Printed‐Circuit Structures
Authors: Isaac Ayman A. , Al‐Rizzo Hussain , Yahya Samer , Al‐Wahhamy Abbas , Abushamleh Said
Published: October 2018

A new approach is presented in this paper to reduce mutual coupling between two closely‐spaced planar monopole antennas. The approach employs either two parallel metallic strips or a single strip with a meander‐shaped slotted pattern symmetrically placed between the two antennas with their edges being separated by 4 mm and 8 mm, respectively. The novel aspect of our approach is that the decoupling structures are not only confined in the space shared by the two planar monopole edges but are rather extended above the partial ground plane on one end and to the edge of the substrate on the other end. The design provided measured −10 dB impedance and − 20 dB decoupling bandwidths extending from 1.65 GHz to 4 GHz, and 1.43 GHz to 3.7 GHz, respectively, and the measured realized gains at 2.45 GHz are 3.81 dBi and 2.14 dBi, respectively. The proposed arrays offer excellent MIMO performance in terms of envelope correlation coefficient and link efficiency in realistic MIMO propagation environments through the decoupled frequency regimes.
Design, simulation, and fabrication of a small size of a new spiral shaped of circular microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Aoad Ashrf , Ufuk Türeli Mehmet Serdar
Published: October 2018

There are many applications in communication and microwave hyperthermia are desirable where small lateral size and narrow band properties. Circular microstrip patch and the Archimedean spiral antenna were combined to affect positively on the performance of the exited antenna. The design includes the selection carefully of the dielectric material, the radius of circular microstrip patch, the empty space through the turned microstrip spiral, the width of the spiral and the number turns of the spiral. The simulation and the experimental results confirm that the small size of combined spiral and microstrip patch antennas can be operated over a wide range of frequencies. In addition to the techniques that are applied to obtain the results such as directivity, Half‐Power Beamwidth, S‐Parameters, and stands for Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) for the new shape. The outputs are compared and analyzed with a numerical formulation for spiral and patch antennas and measured.
Capacitive couplings compact antenna for LTE/WiMAX/WLAN application
Authors: Patel Riki , Upadhyaya Trushit , Desai Arpan
Published: October 2018

A Compact antenna applicable for wireless communication fields like Long Term Evolution (LTE) frequency division duplex (FDD) Downlink Communication (1850‐1910 MHz Canada, Latin America), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) and Wireless local area network (WLAN) is proposed. The antenna structure is based on 1 outer ring resonators. Here, directly fed through the patch the stepped impedance transmission line with an optimized electromagnetic coupling outer ring. The proposed design operates in the lower frequency band from 1.79 to 1.94 GHz with 1.86 GHz center frequency and in the higher frequency band form 4.69 to 5.27 GHz. The compact antenna return loss is good agreement between simulated and measured results. The antenna gain value are 0.8 dBi at 1.86 GHz, 1.1 dBi at 4.75 GHz, 3.84 dBi at 4.97 GHz, and 2.64 dBi at 5.19 GHz. Moreover multi‐directional radiation to unidirectional radiation flow at the horizontal plane and vertical plane. A unidirectional radiation patterns based compact antenna utilized for wireless communication applications.
Modeling and calculating for the compaction characteristics of waste rock masses
Authors: Zhu Defu , Tu Shihao , Ma Hangsheng , Wei Hongmin , Li Haocheng , Wang Chen
Published: October 2018

Bearing and deformation behaviors of waste rock masses (WRM) are more usually considered in stress distribution in caved waste. As WRM is widely located in hidden and dangerous environments, herein, numerical calculation is the preferred research method, but there are no modules specifically designed to simulate WRM, and the distribution of blockiness size, void, and properties of WRM in existing programs is still immature. A construction and subdivision method for modeling WRM is proposed in this paper. That is on the basis of the intact rock mass numerical model established in 3D Voronoi, the blocks in the intact rock mass are removed at random to achieve the purpose of retrieving the WRM structure by means of predetermined porosity. Also, the Weibull distribution is introduced to describe the properties of joints randomly, and a uniaxial compression experiment is used to research the compaction characteristics of WRM. The modeling and parametric methods can more accurately reflect fragmentation characteristics, bulking characteristics, and compaction characteristics of WRM. Compared with the existing theoretical and experimental results, this method has a high degree of consistency with them. This experimental study provides a new and effective method for the safety control of backfilling technics of WRM in coal mines.
Should charity promotions appeal to altruism?
Authors: Leonhardt James M. , Peterson Robin T.
Published: October 2018

To be competitive with rivals, charitable organizations must rely on carefully formulated promotion programs. The literature, however, provides mixed advice on the effectiveness of charitable appeals. As a result, there is a need for research to identify their prevalence and effectiveness. The present research conducts a content analysis of charitable promotions and finds that more than 55% appeal to selfless consumer motives (i.e., altruism). A subsequent experiment reveals that appealing to more selfless (i.e., altruism) versus less selfless (i.e., reputation) consumer motives results in consumers having a more favorable attitude toward the charitable organization. Furthermore, consumer involvement is found to moderate this effect; more (vs. less) selfless appeals promote a more positive attitude among consumers with low, but not for those with high, involvement with a charitable cause (e.g., animal welfare). Managers should consider appealing to altruism in their charitable promotions, especially when targeting low‐involvement consumers.