bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Deriving the Electrocardiogram from Vectorcardiographic Leads
Authors: DOWER G. E. , MACHADO H. B. , OSBORNE J. A.
Published: February 2019

The issue of whether a traditional or scientifically based system for applying electrodes to the body for routine electrocardiography may be resolved by deriving the 12‐lead ECG from the Frank XYZ signals. The result, the ECGD, is sufficiently close to the ECG for serial comparisons to be. valid. Reducing data acquisition to the XYZ signals alone has several technical advantages. These have been realized with the introduction of a computer system employing the ECGD at a large general hospital.

Plotting the lead vectors of the ECG Don Aitofrs projection of the sphere brings out important relationships between the leads, one to another, and to the spatial directions of the QRS and T vectors. Reversing the polarity of aVR enhances the sequential relationship between the limb leads; this is taken advantage of in an educational display generated by the computer.
Targeting autophagy using natural compounds for cancer prevention and therapy
Authors: Deng Shuo , Shanmugam Muthu K. , Kumar Alan Prem , Yap Celestial T. , Sethi Gautam , Bishayee Anupam
Published: February 2019

Autophagy, also known as macroautophagy, is a tightly regulated process involved in the stress responses, such as starvation. It is a vacuolar, lysosomal pathway for the degradation of damaged proteins and organelles in eukaryotic cells. Autophagy also plays a key role in various tissue processes and immune responses and in the regulation of inflammation. Over the past decade, three levels of autophagy regulation have been identified in mammalian cells: 1) signaling, 2) autophagosome formation, and 3) autophagosome maturation and lysosomal degradation. Any deregulation of the autophagy processes can lead to the development of diverse chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, and malignancies. However, the potential role of autophagy in cancer is rather complex and has been associated with both the induction and the inhibition of neoplasia. Several synthetic autophagy modulators have been identified as promising candidates for cancer therapy. In addition, diverse phytochemicals derived from natural sources, such as curcumin, ursolic acid, resveratrol, thymoquinone, and γ‐tocotrienol, also have attracted attention as promising autophagy modulators with minimal side effects. In this review, the authors discuss the importance of autophagy regulators and various natural compounds that induce and/or inhibit autophagy in the prevention and therapy of cancer.
Radiation therapy treatment facility and overall survival in the adjuvant setting for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lee Nicholas C. J. , Kelly Jacqueline R. , An Yi , Park Henry S. , Judson Benjamin L. , Burtness Barbara A. , Husain Zain A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Treatment at high‐volume surgical facilities (HVSFs) provides a survival benefit for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs); however, it is unknown what role postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) plays in achieving the improved outcomes.

Methods

From the National Cancer Database, 6844 patients with locally advanced invasive HNSCCs of the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx who underwent definitive surgery with PORT between 2004 and 2013 were identified. HVSFs were those in the top percentile for annual case volume during this period.

Results

The median follow‐up was 54 months. Compared with a lower volume surgical facility (LVSF), an HVSF improved 5‐year overall survival (OS; 57.7% at HVSFs vs 52.5% at LVSFs; P = .0003). Overall, 31.6% of the patients changed their radiation therapy (RT) facility after surgery, with this being more common at HVSFs (39.1% vs 28.9% at LVSFs; P < .001). Among those patients undergoing surgery at an HVSF, remaining at the same facility for RT improved 5‐year OS (63.1% vs 49.3% with a facility change; P < .0001). A propensity score–matched cohort of patients treated at HVSFs confirmed the improved 5‐year OS when patients remained at the treating HVSF for RT (59.2% vs 50.7% with a facility change; P = .005). In a multivariate analysis, treatment at an HVSF and remaining there for RT resulted in a reduced hazard of death (hazard ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.69‐0.94; P = .006).

Conclusions

The survival benefit associated with HVSFs persists only when patients remain at the facility for RT, and this suggests that facility specialization and/or high‐volume PORT may assist in driving the OS improvement.
RhoB is regulated by hypoxia and modulates metastasis in breast cancer
Authors: Ju Julia A. , Godet Inês , DiGiacomo Josh W. , Gilkes Daniele M.
Published: February 2019

Background

RhoB is a Rho family GTPase that is highly homologous to RhoA and RhoC. RhoA and RhoC have been shown to promote tumor progression in many cancer types; however, a distinct role for RhoB in cancer has not been delineated. Additionally, several well‐characterized studies have shown that small GTPases such as RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42 are induced in vitro under hypoxia, but whether and how hypoxia regulates RhoB in breast cancer remains elusive.

Aims

To determine whether and how hypoxia regulates RhoB expression and to understand the role of RhoB in breast cancer metastasis.

Methods

We investigated the effects of hypoxia on the expression and activation of RhoB using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. We also examined the significance of both decreased and increased RhoB expression in breast cancer using CRISPR depletion of RhoB or a vector overexpressing RhoB in 3D in vitro migration models and in an in vivo mouse model.

Results

We found that hypoxia significantly upregulated RhoB mRNA and protein expression resulting in increased levels of activated RhoB. Both loss of RhoB and gain of RhoB expression led to reduced migration in a 3D collagen matrix and invasion within a multicellular 3D spheroid. We showed that neither the reduction nor overexpression of RhoB affected tumor growth in vivo. While the loss of RhoB had no effect on metastasis, RhoB overexpression led to decreased metastasis to the lungs, liver, and lymph nodes of mice.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that RhoB may have an important role in suppressing breast cancer metastasis.
Effects of Food and Antacids on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Lesinurad, a Selective Urate Reabsorption Inhibitor
Authors: Shen Zancong , Lee Caroline A. , Valdez Shakti , Yang Xiaojuan , Wilson David M. , Flanagan Talia , Gillen Michael
Published: February 2019

Two clinical studies were performed in healthy volunteers to investigate food and antacid effects on lesinurad, a novel selective uric acid reabsorption inhibitor approved for treatment of hyperuricemia associated with gout in combination with xanthine oxidase inhibitors. Study 1 evaluated a high‐fat, high‐calorie meal or high doses of antacids (3000 mg calcium carbonate or 1600 mg magnesium hydroxide/1600 mg aluminum hydroxide) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of 400 mg oral lesinurad. Study 2 evaluated low doses of antacids (1250 mg calcium carbonate or 800 mg magnesium hydroxide/800 mg aluminum hydroxide) on the PK and PD of 400 mg lesinurad. Food did not alter the plasma AUC of lesinurad and only reduced its Cmax by 18%. In the fasted conditions, high‐dose calcium carbonate reduced the Cmax and AUC of lesinurad by 54% and 38%, respectively, whereas high‐dose magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide reduced Cmax and AUC by 36% and 31%, respectively. Food enhanced the maximum serum urate (sUA)‐lowering effect of lesinurad by approximately 20% despite reducing the Cmax of lesinurad. High‐dose calcium carbonate decreased the urate‐lowering effect approximately 20% in the first 6 hours, whereas high‐dose magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide reduced the effect by 26%. Low‐dose calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide in the presence of food did not significantly affect plasma lesinurad Cmax and AUC or the sUA lowering and renal handling of uric acid. In summary, study results suggest food did not meaningfully alter lesinurad PK and PD. High doses of antacids reduced lesinurad AUC up to 40% and reduced the lesinurad uric acid‐lowering effect.
Packet‐based feedback control of electrical drive and its application to trajectory tracking of manipulator
Authors: Mochiyama Shiu , Hikihara Takashi
Published: February 2019

In systems disconnected from the external grid, such as mobile robots and vehicles, the effective use of renewables and energy harvesting techniques helps a longer operation with less weight and space for batteries. Power packet dispatching system is a promising measure to manage the complex power flow created by such distributed power sources of various profiles. In the system, power is transferred as a pulse, and information tag is attached to the pulse power in voltage waveforms. The physical integration of power and information realizes a smooth inclusion of sources and loads of different profiles and their decentralized operation. This paper discusses the application of the system to load control. We propose a decentralized packet‐based feedback control scheme. The successful operation of the proposed scheme is confirmed by an application to an electrical drive. In addition, the application to trajectory control of 2‐degree‐of‐freedom manipulator reveals the possibility of a peak‐power reduction based on a demand response operation of the proposed scheme. The results contribute to a realization of decentralized flow control of power packets based on the convenience of both the sources and the loads.
Simulating demography, genetics, and spatially explicit processes to inform reintroduction of a threatened char
Authors: Mims Meryl C. , Day Casey C. , Burkhart Jacob J. , Fuller Matthew R. , Hinkle Jameson , Bearlin Andrew , Dunham Jason B. , DeHaan Patrick W. , Holden Zachary A. , Landguth Erin E.
Published: February 2019

The success of species reintroductions can depend on a combination of environmental, demographic, and genetic factors. Although the importance of these factors in the success of reintroductions is well‐accepted, they are typically evaluated independently, which can miss important interactions. For species that persist in metapopulations, movement through and interaction with the landscape is predicted to be a vital component of persistence. Simulation‐based approaches are a promising technique for evaluating the independent and combined effects of these factors on the outcome of various reintroduction and associated management actions. We report results from a simulation study of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) reintroduction to three watersheds of the Pend Oreille River system in northeastern Washington State, USA. We used an individual‐based, spatially explicit simulation model to evaluate how reintroduction strategies, life history variation, and riverscape structure (e.g., network topology) interact to influence the demographic and genetic characteristics of reintroduced bull trout populations in three watersheds. Simulation scenarios included a range of initial genetic stocks (informed by empirical bull trout genetic data), variation in migratory tendency and life history, and two landscape connectivity alternatives representing a connected network (isolation‐by‐distance) and a fragmented network (isolation‐by‐barrier, using the known existing barriers). A novel feature of these simulations was the ability to consider the interaction of both demographic and genetic (i.e., demogenetic) factors in riverscapes with implicit asymmetric movement probabilities across the barriers. We found that connectivity (presence or absence of barriers) had the largest effect on demographic and genetic outcomes over 200 yr, with a greater effect than both initial genetic diversity and life history variation. We also identified regions of the study system in which bull trout populations persisted across a wide range of demographic, life history, and environmental connectivity parameters. Finally, we found no evidence that initial neutral genetic diversity influenced genetic diversity and structure after 200 yr; instead, genetic drift due to stray rate and population isolation dominated and erased any initial differences in genetic diversity. Our results highlight the utility of spatially explicit demogenetic approaches in exploring and understanding population dynamics—and their implications for management strategies—in fresh waters.
Development of grid‐interconnection inverter with an islanding detection function by synchronized injection of harmonic active signal
Authors: Nunomura Naoto , Yoshida Yoshiaki , Suzuki Hirokazu
Published: February 2019

We propose the islanding detection method using harmonic current as active signal. The active signal can be injected in the suppressed direction of the harmonic voltage during grid interconnection. On the other hand, the active signal is injected in the synchronized direction of the harmonic voltage due to the loads during islanding operation. As the result, the harmonic voltage is increased and the islanding operation is detected within 0.2 seconds. We have developed the single phase inverter for grid‐interconnection of low voltage with these functions and performed the experimental verification.
Do Teachers' Personality Traits Predict Their Performance? A Comprehensive Review of the Empirical Literature From 1990 to 2018
Authors: Kell Harrison J.
Published: February 2019

Interest in the relationship between teachers' personality traits and their performance is rising. It is often remarked, however, that the topic has received little research attention. This study surveys what empirical research has been conducted among U.S. K–12 teachers from 1990 to 2018. The search, conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and structured by the Big Five personality taxonomy, uncovered 13 articles. Effect sizes were statistically small, with the most consistent finding being that agreeableness was negatively related to most outcomes across most studies. Implications and future directions for research and practice are discussed.
Evaluation of the impact of different drying methods on the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and in vitro digestion of green coffee beans
Authors: Cheng Ke , Dong Wenjiang , Long Yuzhou , Zhao Jianping , Hu Rongsuo , Zhang Yanjun , Zhu Kexue
Published: February 2019

We investigated the effects of different drying methods (room temperature drying, heat pump drying, freeze drying, microwave vacuum drying [MVD], and combined microwave power vacuum drying) on the active ingredients of green coffee beans. We specifically focused on eleven phenolic acids, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, polyphenol oxidase (PPO), the inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation (LPO), and enzyme activity, and the bio‐accessibility in vitro and bioavailability of phenolics and antioxidant activities were also evaluated. MVD‐treated beans had the lowest PPO activity and the highest contents of 5‐caffeoylquinic acid (1.39 g/100 g DW), 3‐feruloylquinic acid (0.25 g/100 g DW), 4‐feruloylquinic acid (0.25 g/100 g DW), 5‐feruloylquinic acid (1.52 g/100 g DW), and TPC (5.98 g GAE/100 g DW), and the highest antioxidant activity. MVD was the least time‐consuming (0.63 hr/kg) and energy‐consuming (1.88 kwh/kg) method. Moreover, the strongest inhibition of LPO and α‐glucosidase was observed in MVD‐treated beans. Thus, MVD is suggested to be the most suitable drying technique for the preservation of phenolic compounds and bioactivities of green coffee beans.
Flue‐Gas‐Desulfurization Wastewater Can Be Recycled for 50 Percent Less
Authors: Sparrow Ben , Low Megan , Zhou Zhongyuan , Maruschak Anisa
Published: February 2019

The authors present a novel application of a 50‐plus‐year‐old technology that could reduce the cost of treating flue‐gas‐desulfurization (FGD) wastewater by 30–50 percent. This savings is achieved by targeting the key ions of concern—chlorides—and then recycling the water without overtreating the balance of other compounds.
The impact of reducing alcohol consumption in Australia: An estimate of the proportion of potentially avoidable cancers 2013–2037
Authors: Wilson Louise F. , Baade Peter D. , Green Adele C. , Jordan Susan J. , Kendall Bradley J. , Neale Rachel E. , Olsen Catherine M. , Youlden Danny R. , Webb Penelope M. , Whiteman David C.
Published: February 2019

The International Agency for Research on Cancer first concluded that alcohol causes cancer in humans in 1988. The World Cancer Research Fund has declared that alcohol causes cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus (squamous cell carcinoma), female breast, colon, rectum, stomach and liver. It recommended that alcohol be avoided altogether to prevent cancer. We aimed to quantify the impact of reducing alcohol consumption on future cancer incidence in Australia. We used PREVENT 3.01 simulation modelling software to estimate the proportion of cancers that could potentially be prevented over a 25‐year period under two hypothetical intervention scenarios and two latency periods (20 and 30 years). Under a scenario where alcohol consumption abruptly ceases, we estimated up to 4% of alcohol‐related cancers could be avoided over a 25‐year period (~49,500 cancers, depending on assumed latency). If the maximum consumption of all Australian adults was ≤20 g/day (~two Australian standard drinks), up to 2% of alcohol‐related cancers could be avoided (~29,600 cancers). The maximum proportions were higher for men (6% for no alcohol consumption; 5% for ≤20 g/day) than women (3%; 1%). The proportion avoidable was highest for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (17% no alcohol consumption; 9% ≤20 g/day), followed by cancers of the oral cavity (12%; 5%) and pharynx (11%; 5%). The cancer sites with the highest numbers of potentially avoidable cases were colon in men (11,500; 9,900) and breast in women (14,400; 4,100). Successful interventions to reduce alcohol intake could lead to significant reductions in cancer incidence.
Decoding genetic and epigenetic information embedded in cell free DNA with adapted SALP‐seq
Authors: Wu Jian , Dai Wei , Wu Lin , Li Weiwei , Xia Xinyi , Wang Jinke
Published: February 2019

Cell free DNA (cfDNA) in human plasma carries abundant information, which has therefore been the key sample for noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and liquid biopsy. Especially by using the rapidly developed next‐generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, the genetic and epigenetic information embedded in cfDNA has been effectively and extensively decoded. In this process, a key step is to construct the NGS library. Due to its high degradation, the single strand‐based method was reported to be more qualified to construct the NGS library of cfDNA. In order to develop a new simple method for this application, this study adapted our recently developed single strand adaptor library preparation (SALP) method for constructing an NGS library of cfDNA. In the improved method, cfDNA was firstly denatured into single strands and then ligated with a single strand adaptor (SSA) that had a 3′ overhang of 3 random bases by using T4 DNA ligase. The SSA‐ligated DNA was converted into double‐stranded DNA with an additional adenine at the other end by polymerizing with Taq polymerase. Next, a barcode T adaptor (BTA) was ligated to this end. Finally, the cfDNA ligated with two adaptors was amplified with the Illumina‐compatible primers for NGS. Using the method, this study successfully sequenced 20 cfDNA samples from 16 esophageal cancer patients and 4 healthy people. By bioinformatics analysis, this study found the genetic and epigenetic difference between patients and healthy people and identified 23 epigenetic and 28 genetic altered esophageal cancer‐specific genes.
Perioperative changes in superficial pelvic organ prolapse quantification system measurements after prolapse surgery
Authors: Durnea Constantin M. , Basu Maya , Dadhwal Kiran , Gayle Yasmin V. , Gauthaman Nivedita , Khunda Azar , Doumouchtsis Stergios K.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the values of perineal body (PB) and genital hiatus (GH) before and after posterior repair. We also evaluated the introital surface area (ISA)—a sum of transverse and longitudinal GH measurements.

Methods

This secondary analysis of a prospective case series included 94 women undergoing posterior vaginal prolapse surgery at a consultant urogynecology clinic between October 3, 2011, and October 2, 2014. Patients were examined in clinic using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification system with Valsalva maneuver, and in theatre pre‐ and postoperatively with traction.

Results

Immediately postoperatively, a statistically significant change (all P<0.001) was noted for GH (mean difference −0.59 cm), PB (−0.56 cm), and ISA (−0.87 cm) compared with preoperative measurement. This effect was maintained for GH (−0.42 cm) and PB (−0.40 cm) at 2 months’ follow‐up (both P<0.001), and for PB alone (−0.43 cm; P=0.04) at 8 months. ISA had a moderate correlation with GH (r=0.55).

Conclusions

Posterior repair significantly improved PB length at months 2 and 8, and GH length at month 2. ISA did not correlate with prolapse stage. Changes in GH were not maintained beyond postoperative month 2.
Mitochondrial dysfunctions in barth syndrome
Authors: Ghosh Sagnika , Iadarola Donna M. , Ball Writoban Basu , Gohil Vishal M.
Published: February 2019

Barth syndrome (BTHS) is a rare multisystemic genetic disorder caused by mutations in the TAZ gene. TAZ encodes a mitochondrial enzyme that remodels the acyl chain composition of newly synthesized cardiolipin, a phospholipid unique to mitochondrial membranes. The clinical abnormalities observed in BTHS patients are caused by perturbations in various mitochondrial functions that rely on remodeled cardiolipin. However, the contribution of different cardiolipin‐dependent mitochondrial functions to the pathology of BTHS is not fully understood. In this review, we will discuss recent findings from different genetic models of BTHS, including the yeast model of cardiolipin deficiency that has uncovered the specific in vivo roles of cardiolipin in mitochondrial respiratory chain biogenesis, bioenergetics, intermediary metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics, and quality control. We will also describe findings from higher eukaryotic models of BTHS that highlight a link between cardiolipin‐dependent mitochondrial function and its impact on tissue and organ function. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 9999(9999):1–11, 2019
Direct activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor by benzo[a]pyrene elicits T‐helper 2‐driven proinflammatory responses in a mouse model of allergic dermatitis
Authors: Tajima Hitoshi , Tajiki‐Nishino Risako , Watanabe Yuko , Fukuyama Tomoki
Published: February 2019

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand‐dependent transcription factor that binds to various environmental chemicals and contributes to numerous toxicological effects. However, the direct effects of AhR on the development of allergic diseases are not fully understood. The main aim of this study was to elucidate the action of AhR in the development of cutaneous allergies. Initially, the potential for a direct relationship between AhR and the immune cells was investigated in vitro, using murine bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells, human epidermal keratinocytes, and the mixed leukocyte reaction assay. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) and 6‐formylindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole were used as selective ligands for the AhR. Pretreatment with BaP and/or 6‐formylindolo[3,2‐b]carbazole significantly induced cytokine release by activated keratinocytes and T‐cell proliferation, whereas interleukin‐12 production in bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells was reduced by AhR activation. To confirm the in vitro results, in vivo experiments were also performed in T‐helper (Th)2‐type hapten toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate‐ and Th1‐type hapten dinitrochlorobenzene‐induced mouse models of allergic dermatitis. Mice were orally administered BaP at 48, 24 and 4 hours before the final allergen challenge. In the Th2 model, ear‐swelling response and scratching behavior were promoted by BaP exposure, which supported the observed significant increases in local cytokine secretion. The infiltration of helper T cells, B cells and dendritic cells into the auricular lymph node was significantly enhanced by BaP administration, although Th1‐type immune responses were not influenced by AhR activation. Our findings demonstrate that AhR activation directly activates keratinocytes and T cells, which leads to the exacerbation of Th2‐type cutaneous allergy.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of moss‐aGalactosidase A in patients with Fabry disease
Authors: Hennermann Julia B. , Arash‐Kaps Laila , Fekete György , Schaaf Andreas , Busch Andreas , Frischmuth Thomas
Published: February 2019

Moss‐aGalactosidase A (moss‐aGal) is a moss‐derived version of human α‐galactosidase developed for enzyme replacement therapy in patients with Fabry disease. It exhibits a homogenous N‐glycosylation profile with >90% mannose‐terminated glycans. In contrast to mammalian cell produced α‐galactosidase, moss‐aGal does not rely on mannose‐6‐phosphate receptor mediated endocytosis but targets the mannose receptor for tissue uptake. We conducted a phase 1 clinical trial with moss‐aGal in six patients with confirmed diagnosis of Fabry disease during a 28‐day schedule. All patients received a single dose of 0.2 mg/kg moss‐aGal by i.v.‐infusion. Primary endpoints of the trial were safety and pharmacokinetics; secondary endpoints were pharmacodynamics by analyzing urine and plasma Gb3 and lyso‐Gb3 concentrations. In all patients, the administered single dose was well tolerated. No safety issues were observed. Pharmacokinetic data revealed a stable nonlinear profile with a short plasma half‐life of moss‐aGal of 14 minutes. After one single dose of moss‐aGal, urinary Gb3 concentrations decreased up to 23% 7 days and up to 60% 28 days post‐dose. Plasma concentrations of lyso‐Gb3 decreased by 3.8% and of Gb3 by 11% 28 days post‐dose. These data reveal that a single dose of moss‐aGal was safe, well tolerated, and led to a prolonged reduction of Gb3 excretion. As previously shown, moss‐aGal is taken up via the mannose receptor, which is expressed on macrophages but also on endothelial and kidney cells. Thus, these data indicate that moss‐aGal may target kidney cells. After these promising results, phase 2/3 clinical trials are in preparation.
Variation in the skull morphometry of four taxonomic units of Thrichomys (Rodentia: Echimyidae), from different Neotropical biomes
Authors: Carvalhaes Jeiel G. , Cordeiro‐Estrela Pedro , Hohl Leandro S.L. , Vilela Roberto V. , D'Andrea Paulo S. , Rocha‐Barbosa Oscar
Published: February 2019

The echimyid rodents of the genus Thrichomys vary considerably in their behavior and feeding ecology, reflecting their occurrence in environments as different as the Caatinga, Cerrado, Pantanal, and Chaco biomes. While the genus was originally classified as monospecific, a number of Thrichomys species have been recognized in recent decades, based on morphometric, cytogenetic, and molecular analyses. While Thrichomys is well studied, the variation found in its cranial morphology is poorly understood, given the taxonomic and ecological complexities of the genus. Using a geometric morphometric approach, we characterized the differences found in the cranial morphology of four Thrichomys taxonomic units, including three established species, Thrichomys apereoides, Thrichomys fosteri, and Thrichomys laurentius, and one operational taxonomic unit (OTU), Thrichomys aff. laurentius. No significant differences were found among these units in cranium size, but significant variation was found in skull shape. The Procrustes distances provided a quantification of the differences in the shape of the skull, with the largest distances being found between T. aff. laurentius and T. fosteri in the dorsal view, and between T. aff. laurentius and T. apereoides in the ventral view. A Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) with cross‐validation determined that the pairings with the highest correct classification were T. aff. laurentius vs. T. apereoides and T. aff. laurentius vs. T. fosteri, in both views. The principal variation in skull shape was found in the posterior region and the zygomatic arch, which may be related to differences in diet.
Adapting an off‐the‐shelf electronic medical records system to fit the needs of a French teaching hospital
Authors: Ologeanu‐Taddei Roxana , Kimble Chris
Published: February 2019

Most large, modern, information systems are built from standard software modules that need to be configured before they can be used. Implementing such systems requires contextualization—adjusting predefined parameters and adapting standardized templates to the organization's requirements. A key challenge for the users of these systems is to ensure that the data they hold are interpreted in a way that best serves the organization that uses them. In complex, multilayered, and event‐driven environments such as healthcare, this poses a particular challenge. An analysis of the experiences of a French teaching hospital that switched to an electronic medical records system reveals six issues raised by contextualization and offers guidance for those who need to manage this process in their own organization.
Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization of Bio‐Based Farnesene with a Functionalized Methacrylate
Authors: Luk Sharmaine B. , Marić Milan
Published: February 2019

Farnesene (Far) is a bio‐based terpene monomer that is similar in structure to commercially used dienes like butadiene and isoprene. Nitroxide‐mediated polymerization (NMP) is adept for the polymerization of dienes, but not particularly effective at controlling the polymerization of methacrylates using commercial nitroxides. In this study, Far is statistically copolymerized with a functional methacrylate, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), by NMP using N‐succinimidyl modified commercial BlocBuilder (NHS‐BB) initiator. Reactivity ratios are determined to be r
Far = 0.54 ± 0.04 and r
GMA = 0.24 ± 0.02. The ability of the poly(Far‐stat‐GMA) chains to reinitiate for chain extension with styrene showed a clear shift in molecular weight and monomodal distribution. Copolymerizations using a new alkoxyamine, Dispolreg 007 (D7), is explored as it is shown to homopolymerize methacrylates, but not yet reported for statistical copolymerizations. Bimodal molecular weight distributions are observed when an equimolar ratio of Far and GMA is copolymerized with D7 due to slow decomposition of the initiator, but chain ends are active as shown by successful chain extension with styrene. Both NHS‐BB and D7 initiators are used to synthesize poly[Far‐b‐(GMA‐stat‐Far)] and poly(Far‐b‐GMA) diblock copolymers. While the NHS‐BB initiated polymer chains have lower dispersity, D7 exhibits more linear polymerization kinetics and maintains more active chain ends.
Prevalence of drug use among adults with intellectual disabilities compared with drug use in the general population
Authors: Hove Oddbjørn , Biringer Eva , Havik Odd E. , Assmus Jörg , Braatveit Kirsten J. , Holm Silje Elisabeth Hasmo , Hermann Monica
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) have more health problems, a poorer general health, and a shorter life expectancy than individuals in general. High rates of drug use in IDs have been reported. Despite the increasing interest in health problems in individuals with IDs, little is known about their drug use.

Method

Drug use in a community sample of adults with IDs (N = 593) was compared with dispensed drugs in a time‐, age‐, and region‐matched comparison group of adults in Western Norway (N = 289 325). A logistic regression model was employed by using the main group effect to describe and analyze the differences between the ID sample and the comparison sample and by using the interaction term (group × age) to describe the rate change differences from the reference age (18‐30 years) between the two groups.

Results

Total drug use in the ID sample was 62% compared with 50% in the reference sample (P = 0.0001). The high prevalence of drugs for the nervous system (ATC N) in the ID sample (50%) explained the difference. From age 51 and over, the increase in the drug use rate for the cardiovascular disease was significantly lower in the ID sample than in the reference sample (P value range: 0.002‐0.019).

Conclusions

Adults with IDs use more drugs than adults in general. However, the findings showed lower rates of drug use in the ID sample than in the general population for drugs targeting diseases that are the leading causes of death in individuals with IDs.
Thermal and rheological properties of modified polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB)
Authors: Weinmann Sandra , Bonten Christian
Published: February 2019

With the discussion of sustainability and the increased environmental awareness, the biopolymer poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) has gained more and more attention in recent years. It derives from renewable sources and can degrade in different environments to carbon dioxide and water. A hindrance for its potential application in plastics parts is its brittleness, deficiency in thermal stability and low crystallization rate. To overcome these problems chemical modification of PHB by reactive extrusion was carried out in a solvent‐free one‐step process by means of a twin screw extruder. Thermal and rheological characterization confirmed the branching and partial crosslinking of PHB by the organic peroxide tert.‐butylperoxybenzoate as well as by the reaction assisted multi‐functional coagents triallyl cyanurate and divinylbenzene. The crystallization temperature of the modified PHB could be significantly increased, up to 16 K, accompanied with an enhanced crystallization rate. Rheological studies show a distinct increase in the melt viscosity and the elastic properties dependent on the modifier content. The addition of plasticizers like rapeseed oil or polyethylene glycols (PEG 1500 and PEG 4000), respectively, lead to an increase in melt extensibility and melt viscosity. In case of PHB modified with PEG 1500, degradation reactions could be substantially retarded. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1057–1064, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Classification of Mild Stroke: A Mapping Review
Authors: Schwartz Jaclyn K. , Capo‐Lugo Carmen E. , Akinwuntan Abiodun Emmanuel , Roberts Pamela , Krishnan Shilpa , Belagaje Samir R. , Kovic Mark , Burns Suzanne Perea , Hu Xiaolei , Danzl Megan , Devos Hannes , Page Stephen J.
Published: February 2019

Persons with mild stroke experience motor and cognitive impairments that negatively affect their health and quality of life. To address these deficits, it is essential for clinicians and researchers to precisely identify mild stroke survivors. Despite the fact that half of all strokes are categorized as mild, no standards exist on what constitutes a “mild” stroke. The purpose of this study is to summarize the current classification of mild stroke using a mapping review approach. Strategies to categorize “mild stroke” severity were explored in 188 papers indexed in the PubMed database. The results indicate that there was substantial variability in the procedures and scoring criteria used to determine mild stroke. To identify persons with mild stroke, researchers have largely applied assessment instruments developed to inform acute stroke care (eg, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Modified Rankin Scale, Barthel Index). Unfortunately, these approaches demonstrate floor effects and fail to detect the long‐term disabling impairments that often limit the outcomes of mild stroke survivors. Additional research is warranted to suggest an evidence‐based mild stroke categorization strategy that enhances diagnosis, treatment, and referral decisions to the benefit of mild stroke survivors.
Isomer Structural Transformation in Au–Cu Alloy Nanoclusters: Water Ripple‐Like Transfer of Thiol Ligands
Authors: Yu Wei , Hu Daqiao , Xiong Lin , Li Yangfeng , Kang Xi , Chen Shuang , Wang Shuxin , Pei Yong , Zhu Manzhou
Published: February 2019

Structure isomerism is observed in noble metal nanoclusters; however, the mechanism study of this process is rarely reported. Herein, by using the biphosphine ligands instead of phosphine ligands, the high symmetry of the Au2Cu6(PPh3)2(SAdm)6 nanocluster is successfully broken and [Au4Cu4(L1)2(SAdm)5]Br (where, L1 is bis(diphenylphosphine)methane, DPPM) nanocluster is obtained with chiral arrangement. This newly obtained nanocluster contains a total of four isomers in crystal unit cell. Interestingly, these isomers undergo rapid isomorphism in solution, which is confirmed by 1H‐1H COSY spectrum. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the water ripple–like transfer of the thiol ligands results from the isomorphism of nanoclusters.
Coadministration of epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) and caffeine in low dose ameliorates obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in obese rats
Authors: Yang Zhe , Zhu Ming‐zhi , Zhang Yang‐bo , Wen Bei‐bei , An Hui‐min , Ou Xing‐chang , Xiong Yi‐fan , Lin Hai‐yan , Liu Zhong‐hua , Huang Jian‐an
Published: February 2019

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) and caffeine in tea exert anti‐obesity effects and induces nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) amelioration. However, previous studies usually performed a high‐dose EGCG administration, whereas the insecurity was arisen in recent researches. In this study, we treated obese rats with an elaborate dose—40 mg/kg EGCG, 20 mg/kg caffeine, and the coadministration of them as low dose, which were similar to the daily intake; 160 mg/kg EGCG as high dose, which was the maximum safe dose had touched the contentious edge. The results suggested that the coadministration of EGCG and caffeine exerted more remarkable function on suppressing body weight gain, reducing white adipose tissue weight and decreasing the energy intake than single use. This may be due to the variation in serum lipid profile, oxidative stress, and adipose‐derived and inflammatory cytokines. The pathological micrographs showed long‐term high‐fat diets caused severe NAFLD, but it was ameliorated at different levels by all of the administrations. In summary, low dose of EGCG or caffeine only showed a mild effect of anti‐obesity and NAFLD amelioration. The coadministration of them could exert a superior curative effect as well as high dose EGCG but no anxiety regarding safety.
Annexin A2 extracellular translocation and virus interaction: A potential target for antivirus‐drug discovery
Authors: Aliyu Isah Abubakar , Ling King‐Hwa , Md Hashim Nurfariesha , Chee Hui‐Yee
Published: February 2019

Annexin A2 is a membrane scaffolding and binding protein, which mediated various cellular events. Its functions are generally affected by cellular localization. In the cytoplasm, they interacted with different phospholipid membranes in Ca2+‐dependent manner and play vital roles including actin binding, remodeling and dynamics, cytoskeletal rearrangement, and lipid‐raft microdomain formation. However, upon cell exposure to certain stimuli, annexin A2 translocates to the external leaflets of the plasma membrane where annexin A2 was recently reported to serve as a virus receptor, play an important role in the formation of virus replication complex, or implicated in virus assembly and budding. Here, we review some of annexin A2 roles in virus infections and the potentiality of targeting annexin A2 in the design of novel and promising antivirus agent that may have a broader consequence in virus therapy.
Structural and functional similarities in bunyaviruses: Perspectives for pan‐bunya antivirals
Authors: ter Horst Sebastiaan , Conceição‐Neto Nádia , Neyts Johan , Rocha‐Pereira Joana
Published: February 2019

The order of Bunyavirales includes numerous (re)emerging viruses that collectively have a major impact on human and animal health worldwide. There are no vaccines for human use or antiviral drugs available to prevent or treat infections with any of these viruses. The development of efficacious and safe drugs and vaccines is a pressing matter. Ideally, such antivirals possess pan‐bunyavirus antiviral activity, allowing the containment of every bunya‐related threat. The fact that many bunyaviruses need to be handled in laboratories with biosafety level 3 or 4, the great variety of species and the frequent emergence of novel species complicate such efforts. We here examined the potential druggable targets of bunyaviruses, together with the level of conservation of their biological functions, structure, and genetic similarity by means of heatmap analysis. In the light of this, we revised the available models and tools currently available, pointing out directions for antiviral drug discovery.
ZnO Zeolite Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Elimination of Benzophenone and Caffeine
Authors: Jagannatha Rajesha Bedre , Rani R Shwetha , Padaki Mahesh
Published: February 2019

Emerging contaminants in the aquatic environment, including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are mainly resulting from the release of municipal wastewater effluents, which are detected at surface water with lower concentration, and these compounds have an impact on aquatic life. The present research investigates the preparation of zeolite supported ZnO for degradation of pharmaceuticals and personal care products like benzophenone and caffeine. Incorporation of zeolite enhances the adsorption capacity there by results in improved degradation of PPCPs. The prepared materials were characterised by XRD, SEM, EDS, UV and ICP‐OES to confirm the impregnation of ZnO in the zeolite powder, which showed 85% caffeine degradation and 78% of BP‐3 degradation with an optimum catalyst load of 70 mg.
Direct Imaging of the Induced‐Fit Effect in Molecular Self‐Assembly
Authors: Yang Zechao , Lotze Christian , Corso Martina , Baum Sebastian , Franke Katharina J. , Pascual José I.
Published: February 2019

Molecular recognition is a crucial driving force for molecular self‐assembly. In many cases molecules arrange in the lowest energy configuration following a lock‐and‐key principle. When molecular flexibility comes into play, the induced‐fit effect may govern the self‐assembly. Here, the self‐assembly of dicyanovinyl‐hexathiophene (DCV6T) molecules, a prototype specie for highly efficient organic solar cells, on Au(111) by using low‐temperature scanning tunneling microscopy and atomic force microscopy is investigated. DCV6T molecules assemble on the surface forming either islands or chains. In the islands the molecules are straight—the lowest energy configuration in gas phase—and expose the dicyano moieties to form hydrogen bonds with neighbor molecules. In contrast, the structure of DCV6T molecules in the chain assemblies deviates significantly from their gas‐phase analogues. The seemingly energetically unfavorable bent geometry is enforced by hydrogen‐bonding intermolecular interactions. Density functional theory calculations of molecular dimers quantitatively demonstrate that the deformation of individual molecules optimizes the intermolecular bonding structure. The intermolecular bonding energy thus drives the chain structure formation, which is an expression of the induced‐fit effect.
Circumferential strains of a concrete specimen in a pullout test
Authors: Leibovich Orit , Yankelevsky David Z. , Dancygier Avraham N.
Published: February 2019

Pullout test of a rebar from an axisymmetric concrete specimen yields the bond‐slip relationship characterizing the rebar‐concrete interfacial constitutive relationship. It is assumed that inclined compressive forces are developed between the rebar ribs and the concrete during pullout. The components of the inclined forces that are perpendicular to the rebar axis create a ring action in the concrete producing radial compressive stresses and circumferential tensile stresses. The ring action develops circumferential strains on the specimen outer surface that are the subject of the present investigation. Although these strains are usually not measured, they may enhance understanding of the ring action in concrete during a pullout test, which is an important component of the bond resistance mechanism. The present study aims at investigating these circumferential strains and at examination of their dependence on different parameters. The cylindrical specimens were made of concrete without coarse aggregates to provide a relatively homogeneous material and assure the specimens axisymmetric behavior and coherent results. The investigation examines the effects of several major parameters (concrete strength, specimen diameter governing the confinement level and the number of ribs in the bonded length). Attaching a number of strain gauges along the specimen envelope to measure the circumferential strains allows investigation of their longitudinal variation during the experiment.
Seismic response of self‐centering precast concrete frames with hysteretic dampers
Authors: Li Yadong , Ding Youliang , Geng Fangfang , Wang Libin
Published: February 2019

With the rapid development of cities and the invasion of major natural disasters such as earthquakes, the resilience city as a new design concept has been paid more and more attention. As an important branch of self‐centering seismic resisting system, self‐centering concrete frame system has been studied by many scholars. These studies prove that self‐centering concrete frame structure has excellent self‐centering ability but poor energy dissipation capacity. Adhering to the working principle of self‐centering structure and considering the development concepts of building industrialization and modularization, this paper proposed a kind of self‐centering precast concrete frame with hysteretic damper (SCPCHD). In order to verify its energy dissipation capacity and seismic performance, elaborate finite element models were established and elastoplastic dynamic time history analyses were carried out. The results showed that the SCPCHD frame has a similar interstory displacement response to the reinforced concrete (RC) frame and the energy dissipation performance of its joint is obviously superior to the RC frame under rare earthquake because the SCPCHD frame has low damage characteristics and excellent damping device. In summary, this paper proves the feasibility and superiority of the SCPCHD frame, providing reliable support for further research.
Phylogenetic relationships within the tropical clade of Orobanchaceae
Authors: Morawetz Jeffery J. , Randle Christopher P. , Wolfe Andrea D.
Published: February 2019

The tropical clade of Orobanchaceae contains approximately forty genera, typically with fewer than ten species each, and contributes significantly to the variation in floral morphology found within the family. Despite the economic importance of this clade, which contains three of four most important genera of crop parasites within the family, it has been under–sampled in previous phylogenies. We tested the monophyly of the tropical clade and its major genera using DNA sequences from the nuclear (internal transcribed spacer) and plastid (rpl16, trnT–L) genomes. The tropical clade was strongly supported as monophyletic in all analyses, and four main clades were recovered. The earliest diverging lineage from the remainder of the tropical clade is comprised of the shrubby genera Asepalum and Cyclocheilon, previously placed within Cyclocheilaceae. The atypical holoparasitic Alectra alba was shown to belong within the primarily holoparasitic Harveya, and the hemiparasitic Harveya obtusifolia was shown to belong to an otherwise holoparasitic lineage within Harveya. Both New World Melasma species were included here for the first time, and these were shown to be more closely related to the Neotropical hemiparasitic Escobedia than the African Melasma lineage. These results support a previous study recognizing Nesogenes within the tropical clade of Orobanchaceae rather than the separate family Nesogenaceae.