bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acaricidal effects of methyl benzoate against Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) on common crop plants
Authors: Mostafiz Md Munir , Shim Jae‐Kyoung , Hwang Hwal‐Su , Bunch Heeyoun , Lee Kyeong‐Yeoll
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Methyl benzoate (MB) is a small, hydrophobic organic compound isolated from the freshwater fern Salvinia molesta (Salviniales: Salviniaceae). It is used as a fragrance and flavor enhancer owing to its pleasant smell. It has also demonstrated potential as a green pesticide for various groups of insects. However, its effects on mites are yet to be studied.

RESULTS

Here, we assessed the acaricidal and repellent effects of MB against the two‐spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. MB demonstrated concentration‐dependent contact toxicity against eggs and adults of the mite. A leaf‐dipping assay using 1% MB prevented the hatching of 92.7% of eggs and killed 100% of adults within 48 h of treatment. Concentration–mortality statistics were subjected to probit analysis, and the median lethal concentration (LC50) values for eggs and adults were 0.25% and 0.5%, respectively. Treatment with 1% MB showed the highest mortality (100%), with a median lethal time (LT50) estimated of 8.1 h. The efficacy of MB against adults of T. urticae on tomato plants under greenhouse conditions was 97.5% within 96 h post‐treatment. Further, MB showed significant repellent activity against adult females of T. urticae, although this declined with time. Spraying with 1% MB (three times per plant) was not phytotoxic to bean, cucumber, pepper, or tomato plants.

CONCLUSION

MB is highly acaricidal and repellent, but not phytotoxic, and is a promising green pesticide.
Do one‐step mechanisms always involve simultaneous evolution of electron density? QTAIM/IQA analysis of the Curtius rearrangement
Authors: López‐Fernández José L. , Mosquera Ricardo A. , Graña Ana M.
Published: January 2020

The Curtius rearrangement reaction is studied by using quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis of the electron density and the interacting quantum atoms (IQA) formalism. Although the rearrangements take place in one stage, two phases are distinguished when the rearranged atom is H: the first one corresponds to the separation of N2, and the second one to the N‐H/C‐H bond rearrangement. The transition state (TS) for the reaction does not represent an intermediate between reagent and product for the migration but for the isolation of the N2molecule. When the migration is undergone by a fluorine atom, no electronic phases can be distinguished and the process is really concerted. As the migration happens closer to the TS, the TS is more similar to the product. The IQA analysis reveals different electron density evolutions for H and F migrations, and the scarce relevance (in terms of energy) of the point where BCPs appear or disappear.
Revisiting the investment anomaly: Financing constraints or limits‐to‐arbitrage?
Authors: Koh Kyungyeon (Rachel)
Published: January 2020

The investment anomaly refers to the pervasive negative predictability in future stock returns following large firm investments. I re‐investigate two competing hypotheses for the potential source of the anomaly: (a) prolonged mispricing due to limits to arbitrage and (b) financing constraints in the context of Q‐theory of investments. The analyses employ new proxies for financing constraints, the text‐based measures developed by Hoberg and Maksimovic (2014). While the evidence supporting the limits‐to‐arbitrage hypothesis is stronger, there is a fair amount of evidence that financing constraints also reinforce the anomaly effect.
Biofuel Production With Sulfonated High Surface Area Carbons Derived From Glucose
Authors: Adhikari Shiba P. , Hood Zachary D. , Borchers Sara , Wright Marcus , Lachgar Abdou
Published: January 2020

Solid acid carbon catalysts were prepared by activating hydrothermal carbon with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to form high surface area carbon and using an environmentally benign L‐cysteine method for subsequent sulfonation. The textural and physical properties of the solid acid catalysts were characterized by different techniques including Powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in order to understand the functionalization of sulfonic acids on the carbon support. The catalytic activity of the carbon‐based materials towards biofuel production was studied by using the esterification of oleic acid as a prime example. A quantitative yield of 95 % fatty acid methyl ester was achieved using the high surface area sulfonated catalyst (HSC‐SO3H with SA=1751 m2/g) at 80 °C for 4 hours at 1 atm with 10 wt. % of catalyst loading and at a 10 : 1 molar ratio of methanol/oleic acid. Sulfonation of carbon with L‐cysteine represents a promising technique to obtain solid acid catalysts, which are expected to be useful for other applications in Lewis‐acid catalysis, separations, and beyond.
A Catalyst‐Free Synthetic Route to Modified Isoflavone via Multi‐Component Reaction
Authors: Alizadeh Abdolali , Bagherinejad Akram
Published: January 2020

A concise and efficient one‐pot sequential approach for the synthesis of modified isoflavone was developed from a reaction of 3‐formylchromones, malononitrile, various α,α‐dicyanoolefines, using Et3N as the base, and EtOH as the solvent, in good yield. The value of this method lies in its short reaction time, convenient purification, no need for a metal catalyst, excellent efficiency, and green solvent. This synthesis involves a Knoevenagel condensation/carbanion formation/ring closure, and finally, an elimination to obtain the respective isoflavonoid derivatives.
Effect of monochorionicity on perinatal outcome and growth discordance in triplet pregnancy: collaborative multicenter study in England, 2000–2013
Authors: Glinianaia S. V. , Rankin J. , Khalil A. , Binder J. , Waring G. , Curado J. , Pateisky P. , Thilaganathan B. , Sturgiss S. N. , Hannon T. ,   NorSTAMP collaborators
Published: January 2020

Objectives

To compare perinatal outcome and growth discordance between trichorionic triamniotic (TCTA) and dichorionic triamniotic (DCTA) or monochorionic triamniotic (MCTA) triplet pregnancies.

Methods

This was a multicenter cohort study using population‐based data on triplet pregnancies from 11 Northern Survey of Twin and Multiple Pregnancy (NorSTAMP) maternity units and the Southwest Thames Region of London Obstetric Research Collaborative (STORK) multiple pregnancy cohort, for 2000–2013. Perinatal outcomes (from ≥ 24 weeks' gestation to 28 days of age), intertriplet fetal growth and birth‐weight (BW) discordance and neonatal morbidity were analyzed in TCTA compared with DCTA/MCTA pregnancies.

Results

Monochorionic placentation of a pair or trio in triplet pregnancy (n = 72) was associated with a significantly increased risk of perinatal mortality (risk ratio, 2.7 (95% CI, 1.3–5.5)) compared with that in TCTA pregnancies (n = 68), due mainly to a much higher risk of stillbirth (risk ratio, 5.4 (95% CI, 1.6–18.2)), with 57% of all stillbirth cases resulting from fetofetal transfusion syndrome, while there was no significant difference in neonatal mortality (P = 0.60). The associations with perinatal mortality and stillbirth persisted when considering only pregnancies not affected by a major congenital anomaly. DCTA/MCTA triplets had lower BW and demonstrated greater BW discordance than did TCTA triplets (P = 0.049). Severe BW discordance of > 35% was 2.5‐fold higher in DCTA/MCTA compared with TCTA pregnancies (26.1% vs 10.4%), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.06), presumably due to low numbers. Triplets in both groups were delivered by Cesarean section in over 95% of cases, at a similar gestational age (median, 33 weeks' gestation). The rate of respiratory (P = 0.28) or infectious (P = 0.08) neonatal morbidity was similar between the groups.

Conclusions

Despite close antenatal surveillance, monochorionic placentation of a pair or trio in triamniotic triplet pregnancy was associated with a significantly increased stillbirth risk, mainly due to fetofetal transfusion syndrome, and with greater size discordance. In liveborn triplets, there was no adverse effect of monochorionicity on neonatal outcome. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Bosonic symmetries of (2, 0) DLCQ field theories
Authors: Lambert N. , Lipstein A. , Mouland R. , Richmond P.
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We investigate symmetries of the six-dimensional (2, 0) theory reduced along a compact null direction. The action for this theory was deduced by considering M-theory on AdS
7
× S
4 and reducing the AdS
7 factor along a time-like Hopf fibration which breaks one quarter of the supersymmetry and reduces the isometry group from SO(6, 2) to SU(3, 1). The boundary theory was previously shown to have 24 supercharges and a Lifshitz scaling symmetry. In this paper, we show that it has four boost-like symmetries and an additional conformal symmetry which furnish a representation of SU(3, 1) when combined with the other bosonic symmetries, providing a nontrivial check of the holographic correspondence.
Strolling along gravitational vacua
Authors: Kutluk Emine Şeyma , Seraj Ali , Van den Bleeken Dieter
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We consider General Relativity (GR) on a space-time whose spatial slices are compact manifolds M with non-empty boundary ∂M. We argue that this theory has a non-trivial space of ‘vacua’, consisting of spatial metrics obtained by an action on a reference flat metric by diffeomorpisms that are non-trivial at the boundary. In an adiabatic limit the Einstein equations reduce to geodesic motion on this space of vacua with respect to a particular pseudo-Riemannian metric that we identify. We show how the momentum constraint implies that this metric is fully determined by data on the boundary ∂M only, while the Hamiltonian constraint forces the geodesics to be null. We comment on how the conserved momenta of the geodesic motion correspond to an infinite set of conserved boundary charges of GR in this setup.
The role of physical activity in metabolic homeostasis before and after the onset of type 2 diabetes: an IMI DIRECT study
Authors:   for the IMI DIRECT Consortium, Koivula Robert W. , Atabaki-Pasdar Naeimeh , Giordano Giuseppe N. , White Tom , Adamski Jerzy , Bell Jimmy D. , Beulens Joline , Brage Søren , Brunak Søren , De Masi Federico , Dermitzakis Emmanouil T. , Forgie Ian M. , Frost Gary , Hansen Torben , Hansen Tue H. , Hattersley Andrew , Kokkola Tarja , Kurbasic Azra , Laakso Markku , Mari Andrea , McDonald Timothy J. , Pedersen Oluf , Rutters Femke , Schwenk Jochen M. , Teare Harriet J. A. , Thomas E. Louise , Vinuela Ana , Mahajan Anubha , McCarthy Mark I. , Ruetten Hartmut , Walker Mark , Pearson Ewan , Pavo Imre , Franks Paul W.
Published: January 2020

Aims/hypothesis

It is well established that physical activity, abdominal ectopic fat and glycaemic regulation are related but the underlying structure of these relationships is unclear. The previously proposed twin-cycle hypothesis (TC) provides a mechanistic basis for impairment in glycaemic control through the interactions of substrate availability, substrate metabolism and abdominal ectopic fat accumulation. Here, we hypothesise that the effect of physical activity in glucose regulation is mediated by the twin-cycle. We aimed to examine this notion in the Innovative Medicines Initiative Diabetes Research on Patient Stratification (IMI DIRECT) Consortium cohorts comprised of participants with normal or impaired glucose regulation (cohort 1: N ≤ 920) or with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes (cohort 2: N ≤ 435).

Methods

We defined a structural equation model that describes the TC and fitted this within the IMI DIRECT dataset. A second model, twin-cycle plus physical activity (TC-PA), to assess the extent to which the effects of physical activity in glycaemic regulation are mediated by components in the twin-cycle, was also fitted. Beta cell function, insulin sensitivity and glycaemic control were modelled from frequently sampled 75 g OGTTs (fsOGTTs) and mixed-meal tolerance tests (MMTTs) in participants without and with diabetes, respectively. Abdominal fat distribution was assessed using MRI, and physical activity through wrist-worn triaxial accelerometry. Results are presented as standardised beta coefficients, SE and p values, respectively.

Results

The TC and TC-PA models showed better fit than null models (TC: χ2 = 242, p = 0.004 and χ2 = 63, p = 0.001 in cohort 1 and 2, respectively; TC-PA: χ2 = 180, p = 0.041 and χ2 = 60, p = 0.008 in cohort 1 and 2, respectively). The association of physical activity with glycaemic control was primarily mediated by variables in the liver fat cycle.

Conclusions/interpretation

These analyses partially support the mechanisms proposed in the twin-cycle model and highlight mechanistic pathways through which insulin sensitivity and liver fat mediate the association between physical activity and glycaemic control.
The Obesity Paradox in the Trauma Patient: Normal May not Be Better
Authors: Dvorak J. E. , Lester E. L. W. , Maluso P. J. , Tatebe L. , Schlanser V. , Kaminsky M. , Messer T. , Dennis A. J. , Starr F. , Bokhari F.
Published: January 2020

Objective

The obesity paradox is the association of increased survival for overweight and obese patients compared to normal and underweight patients, despite an increased risk of morbidity. The obesity paradox has been demonstrated in many disease states but has yet to be studied in trauma. The objective of this study is to elucidate the presence of the obesity paradox in trauma patients by evaluating the association between BMI and outcomes.

Methods

Using the 2014–2015 National Trauma Database (NTDB), adults were categorized by WHO BMI category. Logistic regression was used to assess the odds of mortality associated with each category, adjusting for statistically significant covariables. Length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS and ventilator days were also analyzed, adjusting for statistically significant covariables.

Results

A total of 415,807 patients were identified. Underweight patients had increased odds of mortality (OR 1.378, p < 0.001 95% CI 1.252–1.514), while being overweight had a protective effect (OR 0.916, p = 0.002 95% CI 0.867–0.968). Class I obesity was not associated with increased mortality compared to normal weight (OR 1.013, p = 0.707 95% CI 0.946–1.085). Class II and Class III obesity were associated with increased mortality risk (Class II OR 1.178, p = 0.001 95% CI 1.069–1.299; Class III OR 1.515, p < 0.001 95% CI 1.368–1.677). Hospital and ICU LOS increased with each successive increase in BMI category above normal weight. Obesity was associated with increased ventilator days; Class I obese patients had a 22% increase in ventilator days (IRR 1.217 95% CI 1.171–1.263), and Class III obese patients had a 54% increase (IRR 1.536 95% CI 1.450–1.627).

Conclusion

The obesity paradox exists in trauma patients. Further investigation is needed to elucidate what specific phenotypic aspects confer this benefit and how these can enhance patient care.

Level of evidence

Level III, prognostic study
Preoperative CT-based radiomics combined with intraoperative frozen section is predictive of invasive adenocarcinoma in pulmonary nodules: a multicenter study
Authors: Wu Guangyao , Woodruff Henry C. , Sanduleanu Sebastian , Refaee Turkey , Jochems Arthur , Leijenaar Ralph , Gietema Hester , Shen Jing , Wang Rui , Xiong Jingtong , Bian Jie , Wu Jianlin , Lambin Philippe
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Develop a CT-based radiomics model and combine it with frozen section (FS) and clinical data to distinguish invasive adenocarcinomas (IA) from preinvasive lesions/minimally invasive adenocarcinomas (PM).

Methods

This multicenter study cohort of 623 lung adenocarcinomas was split into training (n = 331), testing (n = 143), and external validation dataset (n = 149). Random forest models were built using selected radiomics features, results from FS, lesion volume, clinical and semantic features, and combinations thereof. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curves (AUC) was used to evaluate model performances. The diagnosis accuracy, calibration, and decision curves of models were tested.

Results

The radiomics-based model shows good predictive performance and diagnostic accuracy for distinguishing IA from PM, with AUCs of 0.89, 0.89, and 0.88, in the training, testing, and validation datasets, respectively, and with corresponding accuracies of 0.82, 0.79, and 0.85. Adding lesion volume and FS significantly increases the performance of the model with AUCs of 0.96, 0.97, and 0.96, and with accuracies of 0.91, 0.94, and 0.93 in the three datasets. There is no significant difference in AUC between the FS model enriched with radiomics and volume against an FS model enriched with volume alone, while the former has higher accuracy. The model combining all available information shows minor non-significant improvements in AUC and accuracy compared with an FS model enriched with radiomics and volume.

Conclusions

Radiomics signatures are potential biomarkers for the risk of IA, especially in combination with FS, and could help guide surgical strategy for pulmonary nodules patients.

Key Points

• A CT-based radiomics model may be a valuable tool for preoperative prediction of invasive adenocarcinoma for patients with pulmonary nodules.

• Radiomics combined with frozen sections could help in guiding surgery strategy for patients with pulmonary nodules.
Functional neuroimaging in the acute phase of Takotsubo syndrome: volumetric and functional changes of the right insular cortex
Authors: Dichtl Wolfgang , Tuovinen Noora , Barbieri Fabian , Adukauskaite Agne , Senoner Thomas , Rubatscher Andrea , Hintringer Florian , Siedentopf Christian , Bauer Axel , Gizewski Elke R. , Steiger Ruth
Published: January 2020

Background

A brain–heart interaction has been proposed in Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). Structural changes in the limbic system and hypoconnectivity between certain brain areas in the chronic phase of the disease have been reported, but little is known concerning functional neuroimaging in the acute phase. We hypothesized anatomical and functional changes in the central nervous system and investigated whole-brain volumetric and functional connectivity alterations in the acute phase TTS patients compared to controls.

Methods

Anatomical and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging were performed in postmenopausal females: thirteen in the acute TTS phase and thirteen healthy controls without evidence of coronary artery disease. Voxel-based morphometry and graph theoretical analysis were applied to identify anatomical and functional differences between patients and controls.

Results

Significantly lower gray matter volumes were found in TTS patients in the right middle frontal gyrus (p = 0.004) and right subcallosal cortex (p = 0.009) compared to healthy controls. When lower threshold was applied, volumetric changes were noted in the right insular cortex (p = 0.0113), the right paracingulate cortex (p = 0.012), left amygdala (p = 0.018), left central opercular cortex (p = 0.017), right (p = 0.013) and left thalamus (p = 0.017), and left cerebral cortex (p = 0.017). Graph analysis revealed significantly (p < 0.01) lower functional connectivity in TTS patients compared to healthy controls, particularly in the connections originating from the right insular cortex, temporal lobes, and precuneus.

Conclusion

In the acute phase of TTS volumetric changes in frontal regions and the central autonomic network (i.e. insula, anterior cingulate cortex, and amygdala) were noted. In particular, the right insula, associated with sympathetic autonomic tone, had both volumetric and functional changes.

Graphic abstract
Individual preferences for task coordination strategies in multitasking: exploring the link between preferred modes of processing and strategies of response organization
Authors: Brüning Jovita , Reissland Jessika , Manzey Dietrich
Published: January 2020

Recent investigation of individual differences in multitasking revealed evidence for individual preferences for modes of task processing (serial vs. overlapping) in a task switching with preview (TSWP) paradigm and different strategies of response organization (blocking, switching, and response grouping) in a free concurrent dual-tasking (FCDT) paradigm. However, this research on individual differences at the levels of cognitive task processing and behavioral response organization has been pursued separately, thus far, by testing independent samples of participants. In the current study, we investigated whether these two levels of task coordination were linked intra-individually. As individuals preferring an overlapping task processing mode can generate time gains particularly at task switches, we predicted that they prefer a switching strategy of response organization. In contrast, individuals preferring a serial processing mode are expected to prefer a blocking strategy to reduce dual-task demands. These predictions were confirmed in an experiment based on n = 70 participants. Indeed, most serial processors preferred a blocking strategy, whereas overlapping processors predominantly preferred to switch between the tasks. This finding suggests a strong correspondence between individual preferences emerging in both aspects of task coordination, which might reflect a common basic difference in the preferred style of cognitive control (flexible vs. persistent). Moreover, in case the preferred modes of task processing and strategies of response organization did not correspond to each other, the overall multitasking efficiency was comparably low. Thus, the distinction between the preferences for both aspects of multitasking seems to be an important aspect of understanding multitasking performance and should be considered in future studies.
Perforation of the Schneiderian membrane during sinus floor elevation: a risk factor for long-term success of dental implants?
Authors: Beck-Broichsitter Benedicta E. , Gerle Mirko , Wiltfang Jörg , Becker Stephan Thomas
Published: January 2020

Purpose

In cases of highly atrophic alveolar ridges, augmentation procedures became a frequent procedure to gain optimal conditions for dental implants. Especially in the maxilla sinus floor elevation procedures represent the gold standard pre-prosthetic and mainly successful procedure. The perforation of the Schneiderian is one of the most common complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the intraoperative perforation of the Schneiderian membrane has an impact on long-term implant success.

Methods

Thirty-four patients from a former study collective of the years 2005 and 2006 with a total of 41 perforations were invited for a follow-up examination to determine the long-term success rates after sinus floor elevation and subsequent implantation.

Results

Twenty-one patients with 25 perforations were subsequently re-evaluated. One implant was lost due to a of periimplant infection after 232 days, resulting in an implant survival rate of 98% within a mean follow-up period of 8.9 years (± 1.5 years).

Conclusion

Regarding the long-term success, there was no increased risk for implant failure or other persisting complications, e.g., sinusitis, after intraoperative perforation during sinus floor elevation in this study.
Associations between breast cancer subtype and neighborhood socioeconomic and racial composition among Black and White women
Authors: Linnenbringer Erin , Geronimus Arline T. , Davis Kia L. , Bound John , Ellis Libby , Gomez Scarlett L.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Studies of Black–White differences in breast cancer subtype often emphasize potential ancestry-associated genetic or lifestyle risk factors without fully considering how the social or economic implications of race in the U.S. may influence risk. We assess whether neighborhood racial composition and/or socioeconomic status are associated with odds of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) diagnosis relative to the less-aggressive hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative subtype (HR+ /HER−), and whether the observed relationships vary across women’s race and age groups.

Methods

We use multilevel generalized estimating equation models to evaluate odds of TNBC vs. HR+ /HER2− subtypes in a population-based cohort of 7291 Black and 74,208 White women diagnosed with breast cancer from 2006 to 2014. Final models include both neighborhood-level variables, adjusting for individual demographics and tumor characteristics.

Results

Relative to the HR+ /HER− subtype, we found modestly lower odds of TNBC subtype among White women with higher neighborhood median household income (statistically significant within the 45–64 age group, OR = 0.981 per $10,000 increase). Among Black women, both higher neighborhood income and higher percentages of Black neighborhood residents were associated with lower odds of TNBC relative to HR+ /HER2−. The largest reduction was observed among Black women diagnosed at age ≥ 65 (OR = 0.938 per $10,000 increase; OR = 0.942 per 10% increase in Black residents).

Conclusion

The relationships between neighborhood composition, neighborhood socioeconomic status, and odds of TNBC differ by race and age. Racially patterned social factors warrant further exploration in breast cancer subtype disparities research.
When the Law Distinguishes Between the Enterprise and the Corporation: The Case of the New French Law on Corporate Purpose
Authors: Segrestin Blanche , Hatchuel Armand , Levillain Kevin
Published: January 2020

A recent French reform has revised the legal definition of the corporation. In essence, the law stipulates that the corporation must be run with due regard to the social and environmental impacts of its activity. It also introduces the notion ofraison d’êtreand affords the possibility for any corporation to assign social or environmental purposes to itself, defined in its by-laws. This reform is similar to recent reforms in the UK and the US, but is based on an original and distinctive theoretical argument. The aim of our article is to analyze the fundamental tenets of this reform and their implications for the theory of the corporation. It shows that the new law is based on a new positive definition of the enterprise as not only an economic organization or a productive entity, but more fundamentally a space for innovative collective action. We argue that this view of the enterprise challenges our conceptualization of the corporation in two important ways. First, it shows that the traditional theories overlook the activities of the enterprise and their related impacts, and that the corporation is not necessarily the appropriate legal vehicle for the innovative enterprise. Second, it suggests that the stipulation of the enterprise’s purpose orraison d’êtrein the corporate by-laws can provide new promising legal foundations for corporate responsibility.
Allergy, asthma, and the risk of breast and prostate cancer: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors:   the PRACTICAL, CRUK, BPC3, CAPS and PEGASUS consortia, Jiang Xia , Dimou Niki L. , Zhu Zhaozhong , Bonilla Carolina , Lewis Sarah J. , Lindström Sara , Kraft Peter , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Martin Richard M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The relationship of allergic diseases, such as asthma, hay fever, and eczema, with cancer is under debate. Observational studies have reported conflicting findings, but such studies are susceptible to confounding and reverse causation. Understanding the potential role of allergy in carcinogenesis may shed new light on the biological mechanisms underpinning intrinsic immunity and cancer.

Methods

We conducted a Mendelian randomization study, using germline genetic variants as instrumental variables, to determine the causal relevance of allergic disease and on two most common malignancies: breast cancer and prostate cancer. We used the summary statistics from the largest ever genome-wide association studies conducted on allergic disease (ncase = 180,129), asthma (ncase = 14,085), breast (ncase = 122,977), and prostate cancer (ncase = 79,148) and calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of cancer for allergic disease.

Results

We did not observe any evidence to support a causal association between allergic disease and risk of breast cancer overall [OR 1.00 (95% CI 0.96–1.04), p = 0.95] or by subtype (estrogen receptor (ER)+ [0.99 (0.95–1.04), p = 0.71], ER− [1.05 (0.99–1.10), p = 0.11]). We also did not find any evidence for an association with prostate cancer [1.00 (0.94–1.05), p = 0.93] or advanced subtype [0.97 (0.90–1.05), p = 0.46]. Sensitivity analyses did not reveal directional pleiotropy.

Conclusion

Our study does not support a causal effect of allergic disease on the risk of breast or prostate cancer. Future studies may be conducted to focus on understanding the causal role of allergic disease in cancer prognosis or drug responses (e.g., immunotherapy).
Pathogenicity, host specificity and genetic diversity in Norwegian isolates of Microdochium nivale and Microdochium majus
Authors: Abdelhalim Mohamed , Brurberg May Bente , Hofgaard Ingerd Skow , Rognli Odd Arne , Tronsmo Anne Marte
Published: January 2020

Microdochium majusandMicrodochium nivalecause serious disease problems in grasses and cereal crops in the temperate regions. Both fungi can infect the plants during winter (causing pink snow mould) as well as under cool humid conditions during spring and fall. We conducted a pathogenicity test of 15 M. nivaleisolates and twoM. majusisolates from Norway at low temperature on four different grass cultivars ofLolium perenneandFestuloliumhybrids. Significant differences betweenM. nivaleisolates in the ability to cause pink snow mould were detected. TheM. nivalestrains originally isolated from grasses were more pathogenic than isolates from cereals. The genetic diversity ofM. nivaleandM. majusisolates was studied by sequencing four genetic regions; Elongation factor-1 alpha (EF-1α), β-tubulin, RNA polymerase II (RPB2)and the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS). Phylogenetic trees based on the sequences of these four genetic regions resolvedM. nivaleandM. majusisolates into separate clades. Higher genetic diversity was found amongM. nivaleisolates than amongM. majusisolates.M. nivaleisolates revealed genetic differences related to different host plants (grasses vs. cereals) and different geographic regions (Norway and UK vs. North America). Sequence results from theRPB2and β-tubulin genes were more informative than those from ITS andEF-1α. The genetic and phenotypic differences detected between NorwegianM. nivaleisolates from cereals and grasses support the assumption that host specialization exist withinM. nivaleisolates.
Exposure to environmental radionuclides alters mitochondrial DNA maintenance in a wild rodent
Authors: Kesäniemi Jenni , Lavrinienko Anton , Tukalenko Eugene , Moutinho Ana Filipa , Mappes Tapio , Møller Anders Pape , Mousseau Timothy A. , Watts Phillip C.
Published: January 2020

Mitochondria are sensitive to oxidative stress, including that derived from ionizing radiation. To quantify the effects of exposure to environmental radionuclides on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) dynamics in wildlife, bank voles (Myodes glareolus) were collected from the chernobyl exclusion zone (CEZ), where animals are exposed to elevated levels of radionuclides, and from uncontaminated areas within the CEZ and elsewhere in Ukraine. Brains of bank voles from outside the CEZ were characterized by low mtDNA copy number and low mtDNA damage; by contrast, bank voles within the CEZ had high mtDNA copy number and high mtDNA damage, consistent with putative damaging effects of elevated radiation and a compensatory response to maintain sufficient functioning mitochondria. In animals outside the CEZ, the expression levels of PGC-1α gene and mtDNA copy number were positively correlated as expected from this gene’s prominent role in mitochondrial biogenesis; this PGC-1α-mtDNA copy number association is absent in samples from the CEZ. Our data imply that exposure to radionuclides is associated with altered mitochondrial dynamics, evident in level of mtDNA and mtDNA damage and the level of activity in mitochondrial synthesis.
Mainstreamed genetic testing of breast cancer patients in two hospitals in South Eastern Norway
Authors: Grindedal Eli Marie , Jørgensen Kjersti , Olsson Pernilla , Gravdehaug Berit , Lurås Hilde , Schlichting Ellen , Vamre Tone , Wangensteen Teresia , Heramb Cecilie , Mæhle Lovise
Published: January 2020

Studies have shown that a significant number of eligible breast cancer patients are not offered genetic testing or referral to genetic counseling. To increase access to genetic testing in South Eastern Norway, testing has since 2014 been offered directly to breast cancer patients by surgeons and oncologists. This practice is termed “mainstreamed genetic testing”. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent patients in South Eastern Norway are offered testing. Three hundred and sixty one patients diagnosed in 2016 and 2017 at one regional and one university hospital in South Eastern Norway were included. Data on whether the patients fulfilled the criteria, whether they had been offered testing and if they were tested were collected. In total, 26.6% (96/361) fulfilled the criteria for testing. Seventy five percent (69/92) of these were offered testing, and 71.7% (66/92) were tested. At the university hospital, 90.2% (37/41) of eligible patients were offered testing, and at the regional hospital 62.7% (32/51). Fifty two percent (12/23) of eligible patient not offered testing were younger than 50 years at time of diagnosis. As many as 95.4% (125/131) of all patients who were offered testing, wanted to be tested. The majority of patients who fulfilled the criteria were offered testing, supporting the practice of mainstreamed genetic testing. There were nevertheless differences in rates of testing between the hospitals that affected all groups of patients, indicating that genetic testing may not be equally accessible to all patients. We suggest that efforts should be made to increase awareness and improve routines for genetic testing of breast cancer patients in Norway.
Thermophysical Properties of Lithium Aluminum Germanium Phosphate with Different Compositions
Authors: Rohde Magnus , Cui Yuantao , Ziebert Carlos , Seifert Hans Jürgen
Published: January 2020

The NASICON system LAGP (Li1+xAlxGe2−x (PO4)3 was studied, which is a candidate material for solid state electrolytes. LAGP substrates with different compositions (x = 0.3–0.7) were prepared using a melt quenching route with subsequent heat treatment. In order to develop a better understanding of the relationships between the structure and the ionic as well as the thermal conductivity, respectively, the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction. The ionic conductivity was measured using impedance spectroscopy while the thermal diffusivity and the specific heat were determined by Laser Flash technique and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. Additionally, thermal analysis was performed in order to evaluate the thermal stability a higher temperatures and, also to identify the optimum temperature range of the thermal post-processing. The measured values of the ionic conductivities were in the range of 10−4 Ω−1·cm−1 to 10−3 Ω−1·cm−1 at room temperature, but exhibited an increasing behavior as a function of temperature reaching a level of the order 10−2 Ω−1· cm−1 above 200 °C. The thermal conductivity varies only slowly as a function of temperature but its level depends on the composition. The apparent specific heat depends also on the composition and exhibits enthalpy changes due to phase transitions at higher temperatures for LAGP samples with x > 0.5. The compositional dependencies of the ionic and thermal transport properties are not simply correlated. However, the compound with the highest Li-doping level shows the highest ionic conductivity but the lowest thermal conductivity, while the lowest doping level is associated with highest thermal conductivity but the lowest ionic conductivity.
Diagrams for Navya-Nyāya
Authors: Burton Jim
Published: January 2020

Although a number of authors have used diagrams extensively in their studies of Navya-Nyāya, they have done so to explain and illustrate concepts, not with the goal of reasoning with the diagrams themselves. Adherents of diagrammatic reasoning have made claims for its potential by pointing to key structural correspondences between diagrams and logical concepts, arguably lacking in sentential representations, and describing these relations using concepts such as “well matchedness” and “iconicity”. A canonical example of this iconicity is the use of Euler diagrams to depict categorical syllogisms. Since the meaning of expressions in Indian logic differs in so many important ways from logic in the Western tradition, the use or adaptation of diagrams developed in the latter would seem to preclude iconicity. Thus, the development of diagrams which reflect the nature of inference in Navya-Nyāya, which centres on the anumāna inference schema, is motivated. In this paper we extend Ganeri’s method of depicting the Vaiśeṣika ontology with graphs to include syntax intended to expose the nature of anumāna. The diagrams are given a formal basis: i.e. abstract syntax, inference rules defined abstractly and a graph-theoretic semantics. These are the first formalised logical diagrams that aim to reflect the nature of the anumāna inference. This paper lays the way for further work in extending the formalism to cover more of Navya-Nyāya, and in exploring a dialogue between properties of the formalism and of Navya-Nyāya.
Performance of a closed-loop glucose control system, comprising a continuous glucose monitoring system and an AI-based controller in swine during severe hypo- and hyperglycemic provocations
Authors: DeJournett Jeremy , Nekludov Michael , DeJournett Leon , Wallin Mats
Published: January 2020

Intensive care unit (ICU) patients develop stress induced insulin resistance causing hyperglycemia, large glucose variability and hypoglycemia. These glucose metrics have all been associated with increased rates of morbidity and mortality. The only way to achieve safe glucose control at a lower glucose range (e.g., 4.4–6.6 mmol/L) will be through use of an autonomous closed loop glucose control system (artificial pancreas). Our goal with the present study was to assess the safety and performance of an artificial pancreas system, composed of the EIRUS (Maquet Critical Care AB) continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and novel artificial intelligence-based glucose control software, in a swine model using unannounced hypo- and hyperglycemia challenges. Fourteen piglets (6 control, 8 treated) underwent sequential unannounced hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic challenges with 3 IU of NovoRapid and a glucose infusion at 17 mg/kg/min over the course of 5 h. In the Control animals an experienced ICU physician used every 30-min blood glucose values to maintain control to a range of 4.4–9 mmol/L. In the Treated group the artificial pancreas system attempted to maintain blood glucose control to a range of 4.4–6.6 mmol/L. Five of six Control animals and none of eight Treated animals experienced severe hypoglycemia (< 2.22 mmol/L). The area under the curve 3.5 mmol/L was 28.9 (21.1–54.2) for Control and 4.8 (3.1–5.2) for the Treated animals. The total percent time within tight glucose control range, 4.4–6.6 mmol/L, was 32.8% (32.4–47.1) for Controls and 55.4% (52.9–59.4) for Treated (p < 0.034). Data are median and quartiles. The artificial pancreas system abolished severe hypoglycemia and outperformed the experienced ICU physician in avoiding clinically significant hypoglycemic excursions.
New bounding schemes and algorithmic options for the Branch-and-Sandwich algorithm
Authors: Paulavičius R. , Adjiman C. S.
Published: January 2020

We consider the global solution of bilevel programs involving nonconvex functions. Deterministic global optimization algorithms for the solution of this challenging class of optimization problems have started to emerge over the last few years. We present new schemes to generate valid bounds on the solution of nonconvex inner and outer problems and examine new strategies for branching and node selection. We integrate these within the Branch-and-Sandwich algorithm (Kleniati and Adjiman in J Glob Opt 60:425–458, 2014), which is based on a branch-and-bound framework and enables the solution of a wide range of problems, including those with nonconvex inequalities and equalities in the inner problem. The impact of the proposed modifications is demonstrated on an illustrative example and 10 nonconvex bilevel test problems from the literature. It is found that the performance of the algorithm is improved for all but one problem (where the CPU time is increased by 2%), with an average reduction in CPU time of 39%. For the two most challenging problems, the CPU time required is decreased by factors of over 3 and 10.
Novel Starch/Chitosan/Aloe Vera Composites as Promising Biopackaging Materials
Authors: Bajer Dagmara , Janczak Katarzyna , Bajer Krzysztof
Published: January 2020

Edible films based on potato starch, chitosan and Aloe vera gel (AV) as modifiers were evaluated towards their potential application in food or cosmetics industry. The films, with different AV gel concentration were prepared by casting method. The influence of UV radiation on samples chemical structure was analyzed. The surface morphology was observed with AFM method. The chemical structure and molecular arrangement of mixture components were analyzed with ATR–FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Hydrogen bond interactions among the film components, conformational rearrangements as well as changes in crystallinity degree were confirmed. A study of thermal resistance showed the delay of degradation observed together with an increase AV gel amount and after UV-irradiation. The hydrophilic character of the samples was proved. Water solubility slightly depends on the AV concentration in films, and it decrease after UV-irradiation. All the samples with AV gain the increase resistance to microbial action.
Return to Work for Mental Ill-Health: A Scoping Review Exploring the Impact and Role of Return-to-Work Coordinators
Authors: MacEachen E. , McDonald E. , Neiterman E. , McKnight E. , Malachowski C. , Crouch M. , Varatharajan S. , Dali N. , Giau E.
Published: January 2020

Purpose This scoping review was completed to explore the role and impact of having a return-to-work (RTW) coordinator when dealing with individuals with common mental ill-health conditions. Methods Peer reviewed articles published in English between 2000 and 2018 were considered. Our research team reviewed all articles to determine if an analytic focus on RTW coordinator and mental ill-health was present; consensus on inclusion was reached for all articles. Data were extracted for all relevant articles and synthesized for outcomes of interest. Results Our search of six databases yielded 1798 unique articles; 5 articles were found to be relevant. The searched yielded only quantitative studies. Of those, we found that studies grouped mental ill-health conditions together, did not consider quality of life, and used different titles to describe RTW coordinators. Included articles described roles of RTW coordinators but did not include information on their strategies and actions. Included articles suggest that RTW interventions for mental ill-health that utilize a RTW coordinator may result in delayed time to RTW. Conclusions Our limited findings suggest that interventions for mental ill-health that employ RTW coordinators may be more time consuming than conventional approaches and may not increase RTW rate or worker’s self-efficacy for RTW. Research on this topic with long-term outcomes and varied research designs (including qualitative) is needed, as well as studies that clearly define RTW coordinator roles and strategies, delineate results by mental health condition, and address the impact of RTW coordinators on workers’ quality of life.
In situ synthesis of epoxy nanocomposites with hierarchical surface-modified SiO2 clusters
Authors: Adnan Mohammed Mostafa , Tveten Erlend Grytli , Miranti Rany , Hvidsten Sverre , Ese Marit-Helen Glomm , Glaum Julia , Einarsrud Mari-Ann
Published: January 2020

Polymer nanocomposites are often produced using in situ approaches where an inorganic filler (as the dispersed phase) is synthesized directly in an organic matrix. Such an approach generally leads to improved dispersion and reduced agglomeration of the filler material. Epoxy-based nanocomposites have demonstrated promising properties for application as high-voltage insulation materials. In this work, a sol–gel based method has been adapted to synthesize surface-functionalized SiO2 in situ in epoxy. The synthesized SiO2 moieties were dispersed in clusters of 10–80 nm, and formed chemical bonds with the epoxy monomers via a silane coupling agent. Raman spectra show the formation of four-membered D1 rings, which may be part of a cage-like structure similar to that of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS). SAXS measurements indicate that the SiO2 clusters consist of a hierarchical structure with an increasing fractal dimension with increasing SiO2 content. The nanocomposites displayed improved thermal stability, while the glass transition behavior varied depending on the structure and content of the SiO2 moieties. While the relative permittivity showed no significant changes from that of pure epoxy, the onset of the dielectric relaxation changed with the SiO2 structure and content, similar to the behavior observed for the glass transition.
Transformative experience and the shark problem
Authors: Campbell Tim , Mosquera Julia
Published: January 2020

In her ground-breaking and highly influential book Transformative Experience, L.A. Paul makes two claims: (1) one cannot evaluate and compare certain experiential outcomes (e.g. being a parent and being a non-parent) unless one can grasp what these outcomes are like; and (2) one can evaluate and compare certain intuitively horrible outcomes (e.g. being eaten alive by sharks) as bad and worse than certain other outcomes even if one cannot grasp what these intuitively horrible outcomes are like. We argue that the conjunction of these two claims leads to an implausible discontinuity in the evaluability of outcomes. One implication of positing such a discontinuity is that evaluative comparisons of outcomes will not be proportionally sensitive to variation in the underlying features of these outcomes. This puts pressure on Paul to abandon either (1) or (2). But (1) is central to her view and (2) is very hard to deny. We call this the Shark Problem.