bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X-ray diffraction data as a source of the vibrational free-energy contribution in polymorphic systems
Authors: Kofoed Phillip Miguel , Hoser Anna A. , Diness Frederik , Capelli Silvia C. , Madsen Anders Østergaard
Published: May 2019

In this contribution we attempt to answer a general question: can X-ray diffraction data combined with theoretical computations be a source of information about the thermodynamic properties of a given system? Newly collected sets of high-quality multi-temperature single-crystal X-ray diffraction data and complementary periodic DFT calculations of vibrational frequencies and normal mode vectors at the Γ point on the yellow and white polymorphs of dimethyl 3,6-dichloro-2,5-dihydroxyterephthalate are combined using two different approaches, aiming to obtain thermodynamic properties for the two compounds. The first approach uses low-frequency normal modes extracted from multi-temperature X-ray diffraction data (normal coordinate analysis), while the other uses DFT-calculated low-frequency normal mode in the refinement of the same data (normal mode refinement). Thermodynamic data from the literature [Yanget al.(1989),Acta Cryst.B45, 312–323] and new periodicab initioDFT supercell calculations are used as a reference point. Both approaches tested in this work capture the most essential features of the systems: the polymorphs are enantiotropically related, with the yellow form being the thermodynamically stable system at low temperature, and the white form at higher temperatures. However, the inferred phase transition temperature varies between different approaches. Thanks to the application of unconventional methods of X-ray data refinement and analysis, it was additionally found that, in the case of the yellow polymorph, anharmonicity is an important issue. By discussing contributions from low- and high-frequency modes to the vibrational entropy and enthalpy, the importance of high-frequency modes is highlighted. The analysis shows that larger anisotropic displacement parameters are not always related to the polymorph with the higher vibrational entropy contribution.
Variation propagation modeling and analysis of automotive body outer cover panels assembly systems
Authors: Han Wenwu , Deng Qianwang , Lin Wenhui , Gong Xuran , Ding Sun
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This study aims to present a model and analysis of automotive body outer cover panels (OCPs) assembly systems to predict assembly variation. In the automotive industry, the OCPs assembly process directly influences the quality of the automobile body appearance. However, suitable models to describe variation propagation of OCPs assembly systems remain unknown.

Design/methodology/approach

An adaptive state space model for OCPs assembly systems is introduced to accurately express variation propagation, including variation accumulation and transition, where two compliant deviations make impacts on key product characteristics (KPCs) of OCP, and the impacts are accumulated from welding process to threaded connection process. Another new source of variation from threaded connection is included in this model. To quantify the influence of variation from threaded connection on variation propagation, the threaded connection sensitivity matrix is introduced to build up a linear relationship between deviation from threaded connection and output deviation in KPCs. This matrix is solved by homogeneous coordinate transformation. The final deviation of KPCs will be transferred to ensure gaps and flushes between two OCPs, and the transition matrix is considered as a unit matrix to build up the transition relationship between different states.

Findings

A practical case on the left side body structure is described, where simulation result of variation propagation reveals the basic rule of variation propagation and the significant effect of variation from threaded connection on variation propagation of OCPs assembly system.

Originality/value

The model can be used to predict assembly variation or potential dimension problems at a preliminary assembly phase. The calculated results of assembly variation guide designers or technicians on tolerance allocation, fixture layout design and process planning.
Effectiveness of video assisted teaching on knowledge, attitude and practice among primary caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Chandran Hena , Jayanthi K. , Prabavathy S. , Renuka K. , Bhargavan Rajesh
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Parents or primary caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have important role in early recognition of the disorder as well as in the management of the disorder. Knowledge, attitude and practice of primary caregivers towards children with ASD are important factors in promoting health and wellness of such children. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of video-assisted teaching regarding care of children with ASD on knowledge, attitude and practice among primary caregivers.

Design/methodology/approach

Quasi-experimental research design with one group pre-test post-test was adopted. A total of 60 primary caregivers were selected through stratified random sampling technique. Video-assisted teaching was given to 60 primary caregivers. Data collection was done before and after the video-assisted teaching programme using structured questionnaire which consists of 57 questions.

Findings

The result of the study showed that the post-test level of knowledge attitude and practice among primary caregivers of children with ASD was significantly high (p<0.0001) when compared to pre-test level by using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. The study finding revealed that video-assisted teaching was effective in enhancing the knowledge, developing a positive attitude and good practice among primary caregivers regarding care of children with ASD.

Social implications

Findings of this study will help mental health nurses, psychologists, intellectual disability nurses, teachers, public health, social workers, etc. to know the importance of video-assisted teaching programme regarding care of children with ASD and to motivate the primary caregivers to participate in such teaching programme. The community mental health nurse can plan video-assisted teaching programme in a community regarding care of children with ASD.

Originality/value

Results of this study indicate that the video-assisted teaching is effective and helps the primary caregivers to enhance the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding care of children with ASD. So continuous awareness in primary health centre and community area is necessary to improve the knowledge, attitude and practice of primary caregivers.
An overview of campus greening initiatives at universities in Romania
Authors: Sima Mihaela , Grigorescu Ines , Bălteanu Dan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to identify campus greening initiatives on a sample of universities in Romania reflected in the university curricula, the behavioral patterns of students and teachers, the administrative actions that carry out empirical investigation of students/teachers/management staff perception on campus greening (based on self-administered questionnaires); detect the way campus greening initiatives are promoted/made visible; and identify the gaps and needs of the universities under scrutiny in terms of campus greening initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The current research relies on two major components reviewing campus greening-related activities and initiatives, as reflected in the scientific literature and university curricula (empirical and quantitative assessment) and inquiring selected universities’ about the campus greening programs they unfold through questionnaire surveys (qualitative assessment).

Findings

Generally, sustainability topics (e.g. environmental protection, waste management and sustainable development) are largely addressed and, to some extent, applied in faculties dealing with earth sciences (e.g. geography, ecology) and technical sciences (e.g. environmental engineering). This can be explained by the traditional theoretical background of the first, and the experimental-oriented profile of the latter, which supports the development of innovative technologies (green technologies). However, there is a need to better undertake and promote greening initiatives for most of the higher education institutions in Romania. Some spatial (between institutions throughout Romania) and structural (according to the profile of the institutions) disparities are visible.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the study might be the small number of universities providing a positive feedback to the questionnaire survey and the degree of subjectivity of some of the answers, directly linked with the professional background and issue awareness of the persons who answered the questions.

Practical implications

The findings can be useful to the university managers to better orient their actions toward campus greening, increasing their knowledge and awareness toward sustainability-related actions.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt reporting in the literature to analyze the campus greening initiatives to a large number of universities in Romania based on a common approach, identifying the main gaps and challenges in this process.
CEO change and the perception of enhanced product: an implicit theory perspective
Authors: Lin Chien-Wei (Wilson) , Rai Dipankar , Tran Trang P.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of implicit self-theories and the change in CEO of a firm after product failure on consumers’ preference of the enhanced product.

Design/methodology/approach

Three experiments were conducted involving product failure and CEO change scenarios.

Findings

Studies demonstrate that incremental theorists prefer the enhanced product after the CEO change (vs no change), whereas entity theorists do not prefer the enhanced product after the CEO change. This effect is mediated by consumers’ perception of the likelihood of success of the firm after the CEO change. Furthermore, entity theorists prefer the enhanced product only when the CEO change is external (vs internal).

Research limitations/implications

Future research could investigate if the impact of CEO change on product perception depends on the severity of the situation, and identify boundary conditions under which the CEO change is not beneficial.

Practical implications

The results suggest that organizations can take advantage of the leadership change by introducing new products strategically around the period of leadership change. Marketers can induce incremental mindset in their advertisement material during the period of leadership change to ensure that all consumers have a positive perception of the enhanced products.

Originality/value

This is the first research to investigate how consumers respond to leadership changes made by organizations. The findings show that different signals (internal vs external CEO change) can generate different reactions across different receivers (incremental vs entity theorists).
The role of implicit learning in logo substitution
Authors: Ohme Rafal , Boshoff Christo
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Some marketers have challenged psychologists’ contention that human beings can only learn by using conscious effort. They argue that advertising can be effective at low levels of (or even no) attention. Also, despite the absence of (or low levels of) consciousness, these subconscious responses can be linked to brands. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of implicit learning in the context of logo substitution – an image that may not look like the original logo, and may not even be consciously associated with the original brand or its logo.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by means of two quasi-experimental studies.

Findings

The results suggest that, thanks to implicit learning, logo substitution can be effective.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation was that data were collected from two relatively small convenience samples.

Practical implications

Logo substitution can be of value when a company faces a situation when advertising is banned or restricted, when the target market is saturated with marketing stimuli (clutter) and when there is a risk that aggressive advertising can lead to psychological reactance. The purpose of logo substitution would then be to unobtrusively activate mental representations closely related to the original logo.

Originality/value

The central contribution of this study is that it demonstrates how the principles of implicit social cognition, implicit learning and logo substitution can be used by marketers to overcome the undesirable and even adverse advertising circumstances they sometimes face.
Cybersystemic education: enabling society for a better future
Authors: Schwaninger Markus
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This study aims to explore an exemplar of the design and application of a systemic framework for higher education. The field of application is in the social sciences and the perspective long-term, covering three generations of faculty and many generations of students.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is exploratory. It contains a conceptual component and an empirical component with a long-term case study from a European university.

Findings

A cybersystemic approach to higher education has been shown, at the focal university, to be a powerful amplifier of individual and institutional capabilities, and it still has great potential. The crucial prerequisite is that the approach is virtuously designed and implemented.

Originality/value

A case study ranging over 50 years is presented. The respective university has been a role model for other educational institutions for many years. Its influence in the German-speaking countries, and more recently also internationally, has become significant.
Growth intentions in family-based new venture teams
Authors: Muñoz-Bullón Fernando , Sanchez-Bueno Maria J. , Nordqvist Mattias
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how family ties in new venture teams (NVTs) influence the intended future growth of a nascent entrepreneur’s business. The authors posit that R&D-oriented entrepreneurs in NVTs with family ties have higher growth intentions relative to those who are less oriented toward R&D.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested using data from the Panel Study of Entrepreneurial Dynamics II (PSED II). One distinctive feature of the PSED is that it is based on a random sample of 1,214 nascent entrepreneurs in the process of starting new ventures in the USA, which overcomes the recall biases associated with surveying entrepreneurs already in business and potential survivorship biases.

Findings

The results show that growth intentions in NVTs with family ties is greater when the nascent entrepreneur shows an R&D behavior, even though the presence of family members in the team is negatively related to the intentions of nascent entrepreneurs with regard to new venture growth. This effect is attributed to entrepreneurs’ long-term vision and a more favorable attitude toward change.

Research limitations/implications

Data on startup teams in the PSED II come from one team member (the respondent). Therefore, differences in perceptions regarding growth intentions cannot be determined. Moreover, the sample consisted exclusively of nascent entrepreneurs in the USA.

Practical implications

Knowledge about the determinants of growth intentions during the venture creation phase becomes relevant if we want to influence and support the growth of newly founded firms. Nascent entrepreneurs need to understand the trade-off between emotional and financial concerns.

Social implications

Nascent entrepreneurs more oriented toward R&D become more risk tolerant, and may accept certain losses to their emotional endowment in favor of pure financial goals, being more able to access the additional external resources (tangible and intangible) needed for growth.

Originality/value

The research expands previous evidence on the family involvement-performance debate in large firms by focusing on new ventures with family ties, with distinctive characteristics that may affect growth intentions. The authors also shed new light on the interplay between family business and entrepreneurship. In particular, the research helps gain an understanding of how NVTs with family ties deal with the opposition between the benefits from venture growth and the tendency to preserve team member’s emotional attachment.
Risk analysis for innovative activities in production systems using product opportunity gap concept
Authors: Arabshahi Hassan , Fazlollahtabar Hamed
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper presents a stepwise method for identification and analysis of innovative activities in production systems. The purpose of this paper is to provide a structure in order to propose the risk paradigms and factors corresponding to the innovative activities and evaluation of the impact of these activities on innovation decisions and investment.

Design/methodology/approach

The model used here is an analytical approach that evaluates the impact of innovative activities on innovation decision and investment using product opportunity gap (POG) concept. This framework is applied for innovative activities of Asian industrial field, and the risk of innovative activities is calculated by weighted risk analysis method. In this method, the risk weights and intensities are estimated by the average of experts’ opinions in interviews.

Findings

This implementation discovered some useful information being used by investors, innovators and policymakers for taking the best strategies and decisions in various innovation domains such as innovation management, risk management and innovation policy. The results of this study show that the product innovation is the most popular category of innovation that has occurred in Asian manufacturing industries, and the product innovation, marketing innovation and organizational innovation have the most influence on technology, economic and social changes intensity, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

This study analyzed the risk of innovative activities after their occurrence and because of different views of experts, there were diverse and sometimes contradictory analyses of innovative activities risk.

Originality/value

This paper links two separate and important sectors of innovation domain: innovation risk and innovation decision making and investment. POG plays the role of a bridge to connect the two mentioned sectors and shows how innovation causes the technological, economic and social changes. This paper also provides useful and practical information for innovation investors and decision makers to take the best decisions and to avoid the probable failures and losses.
The cost‐effectiveness of universal late‐pregnancy screening for macrosomia in nulliparous women: a decision analysis
Authors: Wastlund D , Moraitis AA , Thornton JG , Sanders J , White IR , Brocklehurst P , Smith GCS , Wilson ECF
Published: May 2019

Objective

To identify the most cost‐effective policy for detection and management of fetal macrosomia in late‐stage pregnancy.

Design

Health economic simulation model.

Setting

All EnglishNHSantenatal services.

Population

Nulliparous women in the third trimester treated within theUK NHS.

Methods

A health economic simulation model was used to compare long‐term maternal–fetal health and cost outcomes for two detection strategies (universal ultrasound scanning at approximately 36 weeks of gestation versus selective ultrasound scanning), combined with three management strategies (planned caesarean section versus induction of labour versus expectant management) of suspected fetal macrosomia. Probabilities, costs and health outcomes were taken from literature.

Main outcome measures

Expected costs to theNHSand quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) gained from each strategy, calculation of net benefit and hence identification of most cost‐effective strategy.

Results

Compared with selective ultrasound, universal ultrasound increasedQALYs by 0.0038 (95%CI0.0012–0.0076), but also costs by £123.50 (95%CI99.6–149.9). Overall, the health gains were too small to justify the cost increase given current UK thresholds cost‐effective policy was selective ultrasound coupled with induction of labour where macrosomia was suspected.

Conclusions

The most cost‐effective policy for detection and management of fetal macrosomia is selective ultrasound scanning coupled with induction of labour for all suspected cases of macrosomia. Universal ultrasound scanning for macrosomia in late‐stage pregnancy is not cost‐effective.

Tweetable abstract

Universal late‐pregnancy ultrasound screening for fetal macrosomia is not warranted.
Altered nutritional status, inflammation and systemic vulnerability in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary revascularisation: A prospective study in a level 3 cardiac critical care unit
Authors: Rus Victoria A. , Chitu Monica , Cernea Simona , Benedek Imre , Hodas Roxana , Zavate Ramona , Nyulas Tiberiu , Hintea Marian , Benedek Theodora
Published: May 2019

Aim

The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of nutritional status, as expressed by Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) scores, on the inflammatory response following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the impact of an altered nutritional status and increased systemic inflammation on immediate evolution following AMI.

Methods

This was an observational prospective study in which we used the CONUT score and GNRI on 86 consecutive patients with AMI receiving primary revascularisation, divided into a well‐nourished group (CONUT score 0–2, n = 68) and moderate‐to‐severe nutritional deficit group (CONUT score ≥ 3, n = 18). Inflammatory status was assessed on the basis of highly sensitive C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) at baseline and on day 5.

Results

Malnourished patients presented significantly higher levels of serum hs‐CRP at baseline (33.6 ± 35.02 mg/dL vs 10.26 ± 25.93 mg/dL, P < 0.0001) and day 5 (52.8 ± 46.25 mg/dL vs 17.04 ± 24.78 mg/dL, P < 0.0001). GNRI values showed a weak but significant correlation with serum hs‐CRP at baseline (r = −0.26, P = 0.01) and day 5 (r = −0.44, P < 0.0001). Patients with altered nutritional status presented more frequent deterioration of their haemodynamical status, requiring inotropic support (P = 0.002) and longer hospitalisation in the acute cardiac care unit (4.27 ± 2.60 vs 2.85 ± 0.73 days, P = 0.005). Patients requiring intravenous inotropics had a higher CONUT score (2.31 ± 1.7 vs 1.17 ± 1.27, P = 0.01), lower GNRI (102.0 ± 5.31 vs 98.56 ± 5.2, P = 0.02) and higher hs‐CRP levels at baseline and day 5 (31.40 ± 46.57 vs 18.52 ± 32.98, P = 0.04 and 46.04 ± 51.50 vs 19.60 ± 46.05, P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Malnourished patients with AMI had more expressed inflammation, increased blood vulnerability and worse outcomes.
Negative marijuana‐related consequences among college students in five countries: measurement invariance of the Brief Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire
Authors: Bravo Adrian J. , Pearson Matthew R. , Pilatti Angelina , Mezquita Laura ,   Cross‐Cultural Addictions Study Team
Published: May 2019

Background and aims

The 21‐item Brief Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire (B‐MACQ) has been shown to be a valid measure to assess negative marijuana‐related consequences among US college students. The present study aimed to: (a) examine measurement invariance of the B‐MACQ among college student marijuana users in five countries, (b) evaluate latent mean differences on the B‐MACQ as a function of sex and country if invariance is met and (c) compare criterion‐related validity across different countries and sex.

Design

Instrumental study.

Setting

Argentina, the Netherlands, Spain, Uruguay and United States.

Participants

A subsample of last‐month marijuana users who completed the B‐MACQ (n = 1145; 62.9% female).

Measurements

The B‐MACQ, several dimensions of marijuana use and perceptions of marijuana use.

Findings

Results supported configural and scalar invariance (all ΔCFI/TLI ≤ 0.01; ΔRMSEA ≤ 0.015) of a 20‐item B‐MACQ across sex and four countries (the Netherlands being the exception). In examining latent mean differences, Spanish students reported a higher number of consequences than US (P < 0.001) and Argentinian students (P = 0.003). In examining criterion‐related validity, marijuana use indicators (0.01 < rs < 0.64), descriptive norms (0.04 < rs < 0.49) and injunctive norms for best friend (0.06 < rs < 0.28) largely had small‐to‐moderate positive correlations with negative marijuana‐related consequences.

Conclusions

The 20‐item B‐MACQ accurately assesses marijuana‐related negative consequences among male and female college student marijuana users across the United States, Argentina, Spain and Uruguay. The B‐MACQ could be used effectively to identify marijuana‐related consequences in college students from different countries or cultures.
Non‐Governmental Monitoring of Local Governments Increases Compliance with Central Mandates: A National‐Scale Field Experiment in China
Authors: Anderson Sarah E. , Buntaine Mark T. , Liu Mengdi , Zhang Bing
Published: May 2019

Central governments face compliance problems when they rely on local governments to implement policy. In authoritarian political systems, these challenges are pronounced because local governments do not face citizens at the polls. In a national‐scale, randomized field experiment in China, we test whether a public, non‐governmental rating of municipal governments' compliance with central mandates to disclose information about the management of pollution increased compliance. We find significant and positive treatment effects on compliance after only one year that persist with reinforcement into a second post‐treatment year. The public rating appears to decrease the costs of monitoring compliance for the central government without increasing public and media attention to pollution, highlighting when this mode of governance is likely to emerge. These results reveal important roles that nonstate actors can play in enhancing the accountability of local governments in authoritarian political systems.
Australasian general surgical training and emergency medical teams: a review
Authors: Coventry Charles A. , Holland Andrew J. A. , Read David J. , Ivers Rebecca Q.
Published: May 2019

Emergency medical teams (EMTs) have provided surgical care in sudden‐onset disasters in low‐ and middle‐income countries. General surgeons have been heavily involved in many EMTs due to their traditional broad set of surgical skills and experience. With the increased subspecialization of general surgical training in many high‐income countries, including Australia and New Zealand, finding general surgeons with adequately broad experience is becoming more challenging. Furthermore, it is now considered standard for EMTs deploying to a sudden‐onset disaster to have undergone credentialing, demonstrating sufficient training of their deployed members. The purpose of this review was to highlight the challenges and potential solutions facing those involved in training and recruiting general surgeons for EMTs in Australasia.
Predicting non‐sentinel lymph node metastasis in Australian breast cancer patients: are the nomograms still useful in the post‐Z0011 era?
Authors: Tapia Grace , Ying Victoria , Di Re Angelina , Stellin Anna , Cai Tommy Y. , Warrier Sanjay
Published: May 2019

Background

Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) can be avoided in breast cancer patients with low‐volume disease in the sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) according to Z0011 trial. We believe that nomograms developed for predicting non‐sentinel lymph node (NSLN) metastases can guide the axillary treatment in patients who do not fully match the criteria of Z0011 study. We identified risk factors and evaluated the performance of three nomograms to predict NSLN status in patients with positive SLNs.

Methods

Data from 526 breast cancer patients with positive SLNs who underwent ALND at two Australian hospitals from 2002 to 2015 were studied. Univariate and multivariate associations for NSLN metastasis were analysed. Predictive models evaluated were MD Anderson Cancer Centre (MDA), Helsinki University Hospital and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre.

Results

Thirty‐nine per cent of patients demonstrated NSLN metastasis. The multivariate analysis identified extranodal extension (OR 3.2, 95% CI 2.07–4.80), tumour size >2 cm (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.66–3.89), macrometastasis (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.09–3.47), positive SLN ratio >0.5 (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.16–2.60) and lymphovascular invasion (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.09–2.44) as independent predictors for NSLN metastasis. MDA nomogram showed the best discrimination (area under the curve of 0.74) and a 9% false negative rate for predicted probability of NSLN metastasis ≤10%.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that presence of extranodal extension and tumour size >2 cm may influence the need of further axillary treatment. Conversely, ALND can be safety spared in low risk patients identified by MDA nomogram.
Effects of resveratrol treatment on mitochondria and subsequent embryonic development of bovine blastocysts cryopreserved by slow freezing
Authors: Hayashi Takeshi , Kansaku Kazuki , Abe Takahito , Ueda Shuji , Iwata Hisataka
Published: May 2019

This study evaluated the effects of cryopreservation by slow freezing on the mitochondrial function, DNA integrity, and developmental ability of bovine embryos and examined whether resveratrol treatment of the frozen‐thawed blastocysts improved embryonic viability. In vitro produced bovine embryos were subjected to slow freezing. After thawing, the ATP content and mitochondrial DNA integrity (mtDNA), determined by real‐time PCR targeting short and long mitochondrial sequences, was found to be lower in frozen‐thawed embryos than in fresh embryos, and mtDNA copy number was significantly reduced during the 24‐hr incubation post warming. Furthermore, immunostaining against double‐strand DNA revealed DNA damage in frozen‐thawed embryos. When frozen‐thawed embryos were incubated in the medium containing 0.5 µM resveratrol, SIRT1 expression, and survival rate of the embryos significantly improved compared with the vehicle‐treated embryos. In addition, cell‐free mtDNA content in medium was higher in case of resveratrol‐treated embryos than of vehicle‐treated embryos. In conclusion, slow freezing affects mitochondrial integrity and function in the blastocysts. In the frozen‐thawed embryos, mitochondria were removed during post‐thawing incubation and resveratrol enhanced the process, resulting in improved survivability of the embryos.
Nebivolol in the treatment of arterial hypertension
Authors: Olawi Nasima , Krüger Marcus , Grimm Daniela , Infanger Manfred , Wehland Markus
Published: May 2019

This MiniReview reports the current knowledge about the treatment of arterial hypertension with the third‐generation beta‐adrenoceptor antagonist (BAA) nebivolol. Furthermore, it reviews the advantages of nebivolol compared to the earlier generation of BAAs with respect to their different pharmacological properties. Beta‐adrenoceptor antagonists are a class of drugs applied for several different conditions, including hypertension and heart failure. They differ significantly in their pharmacological properties, including varying β1/β2‐selectivity and/or exertion of additive effects on the heart and circulation. Although these drugs have been a part of hypertensive therapy for about 40 years, the outcome of large clinical trials has put the role of BAAs into question. However, most of these results were based on first‐ and second‐generation BAAs and cannot be translated directly into third‐generation drugs. The third‐generation BAA nebivolol has the highest β1‐selectivity seen so far, together with additional vasodilating and anti‐oxidative properties. It is currently applied in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure. Nebivolol has a unique pharmacological profile, despite showing similar blood pressure‐lowering effects, and has certain advantages in the treatment of hypertension compared to the previous generations of BAAs. This includes significant improvements in endothelial dysfunction, central haemodynamics and the degree of erectile dysfunction in men, a neutral/beneficial metabolic profile and lastly a more favourable side effect profile. It is widely beneficial for, for example, sexually active men and patients with comorbidities such as type II diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome and chronic obstructive lung disorders. Whether the advantages translate to an improved long‐term clinical outcome remains to be clarified, and ongoing prospective studies will show this in the future.
The Clinical Impact of [68Ga]‐DOTATATE PET/CT for the Diagnosis and Management of Ectopic Adrenocorticotropic Hormone – Secreting Tumours
Authors: Wannachalee Taweesak , Turcu Adina F. , Bancos Irina , Habra Mouhammed Amir , Avram Anca M. , Chuang Hubert H. , Waguespack Steven G. , Auchus Richard J.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Localization of ectopic ACTH‐secreting tumours causing Cushing syndrome (ECS) is essential for clinical management, yet often difficult. [68Ga]‐DOTATATE PET/CT ([68Ga]‐DOTA‐(Tyr3)‐octreotate)] is an FDA‐approved high‐resolution diagnostic tool for imaging neuroendocrine tumours. Data on the clinical utility of [68Ga]‐DOTATATE in patients with ECS, however, are scarce. The objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy for ECS localization and the clinical benefit of [68Ga]‐DOTATATE imaging.

Method

We conducted a retrospective review of all cases with ECS evaluated with [68Ga]‐DOTATATE from November 2016 through October 2018 at three referral centres. The clinical benefit of [68Ga]‐DOTATATE was based on detection of new tumours and resultant changes in management.

Results

Over the study period, 28 patients with ECS underwent [68Ga]‐DOTATATE: 17 for identification of the primary tumour and 11 during follow‐up. [68Ga]‐DOTATATE identified the suspected primary ECS in 11/17 patients (65%). Of these, nine patients underwent surgery: eight with confirmed ECS (5 bronchial, 1 thymic, 1 pancreatic and 1 metastatic neuroendocrine tumour of unknown primary origin) and one patient with a false‐positive scan (adrenal gland). Of the 11 patients with ECS who underwent [68Ga]‐DOTATATE evaluation during follow‐up, the study led to changes in clinical management in 7/11 (64%) patients.

Conclusions

[68Ga]‐DOTATATE is sensitive in detecting primary and metastatic ECS, often identifies occult tumours after conventional imaging, and impacts clinical care in the majority of patients.
Heterozygous missense variants of SPTBN2 are a frequent cause of congenital cerebellar ataxia
Authors: Nicita Francesco , Nardella Marta , Bellacchio Emanuele , Alfieri Paolo , Terrone Gaetano , Piccini Giorgia , Graziola Federica , Pignata Claudio , Capuano Alessandro , Bertini Enrico , Zanni Ginevra
Published: May 2019

Heterozygous missense variants in the SPTBN2 gene, encoding the non‐erythrocytic beta spectrin 2 subunit (beta‐III spectrin), have been identified in autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5), a rare adult‐onset neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia, whereas homozygous loss of function variants in SPTBN2 have been associated with early onset cerebellar ataxia and global developmental delay (SCAR14). Recently, heterozygous SPTBN2 missense variants have been identified in a few patients with an early‐onset ataxic phenotype. We report five patients with non‐progressive congenital ataxia and psychomotor delay, 4/5 harboring novel heterozygous missense variants in SPTBN2 and one patient with compound heterozygous SPTBN2 variants. With an overall prevalence of 5% in our cohort of unrelated patients screened by targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) for congenital or early‐onset cerebellar ataxia, this study indicates that both dominant and recessive mutations of SPTBN2 together with CACNA1A and ITPR1, are a frequent cause of early‐onset/congenital non‐progressive ataxia and that their screening should be implemented in this subgroup of disorders.
Deferiprone exerts a dose‐dependent reduction of liver iron in adults with iron overload
Authors: Binding Andrew , Ward Richard , Tomlinson George , Kuo Kevin H. M.
Published: May 2019

Objective

While doses of deferiprone up to 75 mg/kg/d have been demonstrated to be effective in cardiac iron removal, their efficacy in the reduction of liver iron has been equivocal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of deferiprone dose on liver iron concentrations in adult iron overload patients.

Methods

A single‐centered, retrospective, cohort observational study was conducted involving 71 patients exposed to deferiprone doses up to 113 mg/kg/d between January 2009 and June 2015 for a median of 33 months.

Results

At the end of the study period, liver iron measured by R2 MRI was reduced by a mean 1.7 mg/g dw. A dose effect was observed, with incremental reductions of 2.8 mg/g dw in end of study LIC for every 10 mg/kg/d higher dose of deferiprone (P < 0.001). A dose effect was also observed in end of study ferritin and cardiac iron concentration measured by T2* MRI (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.048, respectively). No associations between adverse effects and deferiprone dose were observed, but there was a trend toward higher rates of agranulocytosis at higher doses and two of three hereditary hemochromatosis patients developed this complication.

Conclusion

The present study failed to demonstrate that the use of deferiprone at >90 mg/kg/d was associated with increased risk of agranulocytosis or neutropenia, but did demonstrate more effective liver iron control in iron overload patients.
Pattern of neural activation following yohimbine‐induced reinstatement of alcohol seeking in rats
Authors: Walker Leigh C. , Kastman Hanna E. , Lawrence Andrew J.
Published: May 2019

Alcohol use disorders represent an extensive socioeconomic burden, yet effective treatment options are suboptimal. A major hurdle in treating alcohol use disorders is the high rate of relapse. Stress is a major factor that promotes relapse in abstinent drug users; therefore, understanding neural mechanisms that underpin the effects of stress on alcohol seeking is critical. In rodent models of stress‐induced relapse, the α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist, yohimbine, is a widely used chemical stressor to elicit reinstatement of drug/alcohol seeking. However, the exact mechanism how yohimbine precipitates reinstatement of alcohol seeking and the pattern of neural activation associated with yohimbine‐induced reinstatement is poorly understood. Therefore, we counted Fos‐protein positive nuclei across 42 brain regions in alcohol‐experienced alcohol preferring rats that received either yohimbine in the home‐cage (1 mg/kg i.p.) or following yohimbine‐induced reinstatement of alcohol seeking. The number of Fos‐protein positive nuclei was increased in the prefrontal cortex and extended amygdala after home‐cage yohimbine compared to naïve‐ and vehicle‐treated rats. Yohimbine‐induced reinstatement increased the number of Fos‐protein expressing nuclei in multiple other regions including the thalamus, hypothalamus and hippocampus. We then examined inter‐regional correlations in Fos‐protein expression for all 42 brain regions, which showed Fos expression was more strongly positively correlated following yohimbine‐induced reinstatement of alcohol seeking, compared to home‐cage yohimbine. These data suggest low‐dose yohimbine in a non‐drug‐associated context activates stress/impulsivity centres within the brain, whereas yohimbine in the drug‐associated context recruits additional brain regions to drive alcohol seeking.
Estimated six per cent loss of genetic variation in wild populations since the industrial revolution
Authors: Leigh Deborah M. , Hendry Andrew P. , Vázquez‐Domínguez Ella , Friesen Vicki L.
Published: May 2019

Genetic variation is fundamental to population fitness and adaptation to environmental change. Human activities are driving declines in many wild populations and could have similar effects on genetic variation. Despite the importance of estimating such declines, no global estimate of the magnitude of ongoing genetic variation loss has been conducted across species. By combining studies that quantified recent changes in genetic variation across a mean of 27 generations for 91 species, we conservatively estimate a 5.4%–6.5% decline in within‐population genetic diversity of wild organisms since the industrial revolution. This loss has been most severe for island species, which show a 27.6% average decline. We identified taxonomic and geographical gaps in temporal studies that must be urgently addressed. Our results are consistent with single time‐point meta‐analyses, which indicated that genetic variation is likely declining. However, our results represent the first confirmation of a global decline and provide an estimate of the magnitude of the genetic variation lost from wild populations.
Meta‐analysis reveals enhanced growth of marine harmful algae from temperate regions with warming and elevated CO2 levels
Authors: Brandenburg Karen M. , Velthuis Mandy , Van de Waal Dedmer B.
Published: May 2019

Elevated pCO2 and warming may promote algal growth and toxin production, and thereby possibly support the proliferation and toxicity of harmful algal blooms (HABs). Here, we tested whether empirical data support this hypothesis using a meta‐analytic approach and investigated the responses of growth rate and toxin content or toxicity of numerous marine and estuarine HAB species to elevated pCO2 and warming. Most of the available data on HAB responses towards the two tested climate change variables concern dinoflagellates, as many members of this phytoplankton group are known to cause HAB outbreaks. Toxin content and toxicity did not reveal a consistent response towards both tested climate change variables, while growth rate increased consistently with elevated pCO2. Warming also led to higher growth rates, but only for species isolated at higher latitudes. The observed gradient in temperature growth responses shows the potential for enhanced development of HABs at higher latitudes. Increases in growth rates with more CO2 may present an additional competitive advantage for HAB species, particularly as CO2 was not shown to enhance growth rate of other non‐HAB phytoplankton species. However, this may also be related to the difference in representation of dinoflagellate and diatom species in the respective HAB and non‐HAB phytoplankton groups. Since the proliferation of HAB species may strongly depend on their growth rates, our results warn for a greater potential of dinoflagellate HAB development in future coastal waters, particularly in temperate regions.
Flow cytometry “Ogata score” for the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndromes in a real‐life setting. A Latin American experience
Authors: Grille Montauban Sofía , Hernandez‐Perez Carlos R. , Velloso Elvira D. R. P. , Novoa Viviana , Lorand‐Metze Irene , Gonzalez Jaqueline , Solari Liliana , Cismondi Valeria , Serrano Juan Carlos , Burgnini Andreína , Rabelo‐Carrasco Laura J. , Bacal Nydia , Trias Natalia , Guevara Romina , Rico Vido Joyce , Crisp Renee , Enrico Alicia , Boada Matilde , Pereira Cunha Fernanda G. , Fanessi Viviana , Venegas María Belén , Issouribehere Diego , Novoa Andrea , Lens Daniela
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Flow cytometry (FC) is a helpful tool for the diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Different FC score systems have been developed. The “Ogata score” is a simple diagnostic score that has been validated having a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 92% in low‐risk MDS. We aimed to study the feasibility and the utility of the “Ogata score” for the diagnosis of MDS among Latin America (LA) Laboratories.

Methods

This is a case and control study conducted in LA institutions members of Grupo Latinoamericano de Mielodisplasia (GLAM). A total of 146 MDS patients and 57 control patients were included. “Ogata score” was calculated.

Results

The sensitivity of “Ogata score” was 75.6% (95% CI, 66.8‐81.3), specificity was 91.2% (95% CI, 79.7‐96.7), PPV was 95.6% (95% CI, 88.5‐98.3), and NPV was 65.4% (95% CI, 49.1‐71.9). In low/intermediate‐1 IPSS patients group, the sensitivity was 70.1% (95% CI, 60.2‐78.2), specificity was 91.2% (CI‐95%, 79.7‐96.7), PPV was 94.2% (95% CI, 86.4‐97.8), and NPV was 62.1% (95% CI, 53.0‐78.7). In the group of patients “without MDS specific markers” (patients without ring sideroblasts, blast excess, or chromosomal abnormalities), the sensitivity was 66.7% (CI‐95%, 55.8‐76.0), specificity was 91.2% (95% CI, 79.7‐96.7), PPV was 92.3% (95% CI, 82.2‐97.1), and NPV was 63.5% (95% CI, 51.9‐73.5).

Conclusions

The diagnostic power found in this study was similar to the reported by Della‐Porta et al. Also in LA, the analysis was made in modern equipment with acquisition of at least 100 000 events which permits a good reproducibility of the results.
Broadband mid‐infrared emission from Cr2+ in crystal‐in‐glass composite glasses by Hot Uniaxial Pressing
Authors: Xia Kelun , Liu Zijun , Yuan Yuan , Chen Hua , Gan Haotian , Dai Shixun , Wang Xunsi , Xianghua Zhang , Wang Rongping
Published: May 2019

Cr2+‐doped II‐VI crystals have witnessed an excellent gain media for continuously tunable and femtosecond‐pulsed lasers. Despite this, major challenges persist toward realizing ultrabroad emission bandwidth and efficient Cr2+‐doped fiber due to the valence diversity of Cr, especially in chalcogenide glasses. Here, we propose to prepare Cr2+:ZnSe/As2S3‐xSex composite glasses by Hot Uniaxial Pressing (HUP), a method that sinters uniformly mixed crystal and glass powders into geometrically designed composite chalcogenide glasses. The densification of the composite glasses reached 99.88%, indicating that a few or none pores remain. Our research shows that Cr2+:ZnSe crystals have good performance in chalcogenide glasses, and the composite glasses have the potential to be made into mid‐infrared–doped fibers. It was demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) that the composite glasses have a uniform Cr2+:ZnSe distribution and no crystal disintegration. The transmittance of the composite glasses was significantly improved by tailoring the refraction index. The mid‐infrared (MIR) fluorescence and decay of the glasses were measured. The lattice constant was measured, calculated, and discussed to reveal the influence of sintering process on lifetime.