bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pyroelectric Energy Conversion in Doped Hafnium Oxide (HfO2) Thin Films on Area‐Enhanced Substrates
Authors: Hanrahan Brendan , Mart Clemens , Kämpfe Thomas , Czernohorsky Malte , Weinreich Wenke , Smith Andrew
Published: July 2019

Low‐grade heat sources are abundant yet challenging to use for energy harvesting. Herein, the pyroelectric effect in Si‐doped HfO2 thin films is used to demonstrate thermal‐electric energy conversion. The 20 nm thin films are grown on an area‐enhanced substrate via atomic layer deposition, which enhances the power output by a factor of 19 in comparison to planar materials. Ferroelectric and pyroelectric properties of the Si‐doped HfO2 are investigated, and a large pyroelectric coefficient of –1442 μC m−2 K−1 is measured. Wireless power distribution using an infrared laser and pyroelectric Si‐doped HfO2 receiver is demonstrated, where Brayton‐style thermodynamic cycles are used to enhance the efficiency compared with simple resistive harvesting. Thereby, energy conversion cycles at 5 Hz produce net powers of 0.75 μW cm−2. The operating conditions of the power‐beaming circuit are optimized, and the performance is found to be ultimately limited by the series resistance of the electrodes. The thermal efficiency of the HfO2‐based pyroelectric is analyzed relative to classical pyroelectrics, and the loss mechanisms are discussed.
Alkane Functionalization via Catalytic Oxychlorination: Performance as a Function of the Carbon Number
Authors: Zichittella Guido , Lüthi James , Paunović Vladimir , Pérez-Ramírez Javier
Published: July 2019

Catalytic alkane oxychlorination has recently been demonstrated as attractive for the selective conversion of natural gas into olefins, which are pivotal commodities of the chemical industry. Herein, the oxychlorination of ethane, propane, and butane over metal phosphates (Fe, Mn, and V), europium oxychloride, titanium oxide, and cerium oxide is investigated to assess the role of the carbon number on the reactivity and product distribution. Three categories of catalysts are distinguished: systems showing the highest activity in the oxychlorination of ethane CeO2, (VO)2P2O7, propane (EuOCl, FePO4, TiO2), or butane (Mn3(PO4)2). All catalysts achieve high (70–95%) selectivity toward ethylene in ethane oxychlorination, whereas they favor combustion and cracking pathways in the case of propane and particularly of butane. Furthermore, the catalytic oxidation of alkane and of HCl and alkyl chloride dehydrochlorination is assessed to rationalize the catalytic performance, revealing a linear correlation between the reactivity of the catalysts and the ability of the material to evolve chlorine, which weakens with increasing carbon number. In addition, the olefin selectivity in alkane oxychlorination is found to be driven by the rate of alkyl chloride dehydrochlorination and the propensity toward alkane cracking and combustion over the catalysts, both increasing from ethane to butane.
Novel Ni–Fe‐Layered Double Hydroxide Microspheres with Reduced Graphene Oxide for Rechargeable Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Du Yiqun , Zhao Shimeng , Xu Cheng , Zhang Wenyang , Li Pan , Jin Huixin , Zhang Youjian , Wang Zihan , Zhang Jianxin
Published: July 2019

Rechargeable aluminum batteries (RABs) have been intensively studied recently in virtue of high volumetric energy density and cheapness. However, limited options for suitable cathode materials is the major obstacle to their large‐scale application. Herein, nickel‐iron layered double hydroxide (NiFe–LDH) microspheres with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) are reported as cathode for RABs. It is demonstrated that NiFe–LDH can provide large interlayer spacing for aluminum ions to interact, and the introduction of rGO endows NiFe–LDH with excellent structure stability, electronic conduction, and electrochemical reaction kinetics. The aluminum battery with a NiFe–LDH/rGO cathode delivers a high reversible capacity of 131 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1 with nearly 100% coulombic efficiency after 100 cycles. The characterization results reveal that the reversible Al3+ insertion/extraction along with the multielectron redox reactions occurs in the NiFe–LDH/rGO during the cycling process. The aforementioned strategies shed new light on the selection of compatible cathodes for RABs.
Curcumin encapsulation and protection based on lysozyme nanoparticles
Authors: Cui Jilai , Zhou Jie , Huang Lu , Jing Junxiang , Wang Ningze , Wang Luyuan
Published: July 2019

Curcumin possesses antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and other properties. However, this compound exhibits low bioavailability because of its poor solubility and stability. In this paper, lysozyme nanoparticles were fabricated through solvent evaporation, and then, the solubilization and protection capability of curcumin were investigated. Lysozyme nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering technique, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The load capacity and stability in thermal environment were further explored. Results showed that the lysozyme nanoparticle displayed a spherical structure (127.9 ± 2.12 nm) with favorable distribution. The solubility of curcumin can increase to 22 μg/mL. After encapsulation by lysozyme nanoparticles, the retentive curcumin can reach up to 67.9% and 30.25% at 25°C and 50°C, respectively, significantly higher than that of free curcumin. Meanwhile, experiments on DPPH free radicals indicated the curcumin loaded by lysozyme nanoparticle possessed higher free radical scavenging activity than that of free curcumin with same treatments. The results confirmed that lysozyme nanoparticles exhibit potential applications in solubilizing and protecting the environment‐sensitive hydrophobic functional components.
Solid Oxide Electrolyzer System Operational at the H2 Refueling Station of Karlsruhe
Authors: Brisse A. , Zeller M. , Ludwig B. , Brabandt J.
Published: July 2019

The tenth H2 refueling station of the German federal state of Baden‐Württemberg was commissioned on September 6, 2017. The Karlsruhe H2 refueling station, located at the multi‐fuels station of Total, is the first one equipped with an onsite hydrogen production using a solid oxide electrolyzer (SOE) system. In the present work, details about the SOE system equipment are reported. Electrical consumption of the integrated stacks module (ISM) and the hot balance of plant (BoP) for steam generation and inlet gas pre‐heating, was monitored during 240 h of steady‐state operation under 100% steam. The average cell voltage of the 90 cells composing the ISM was 1.35 V at 0.4 A cm−2 current density. ISM efficiency was around 91.5% HHVAC considering 100% faradaic efficiency and including the conversion of the AC/DC power supply. Due to the consumption of the hot BoP and system auxiliaries for safety and control, achieved overall system efficiency was 61.4% HHVAC. Independently from electric steam production, around 10% reduction of the ISM electricity consumption could be feasible with the optimization of the inlet air flowrate. Indeed, adapting the inlet air flowrate as function of the outlet hydrogen flowrate would allow reducing the electricity need for inlet air pre‐heating.
Early Palaeozoic oceanic island–seamount assemblage in northern Fujian, South China: Implications for pre‐Devonian tectonic evolution of the Wuyi orogenic belt
Authors: Ge Yanpeng , Li Longming , Zhao Xilin , Lin Shoufa , Liu Huan , Han Xu , Feng Lamei
Published: July 2019

The nature of the Precambrian basement in the Cathaysia Block of South China is controversial, which inhibits our understanding of the pre‐Devonian tectonic evolution of the region. In this study, a suite of amphibolites and marbles in northern Fujian area located in the north of the Cathaysia Block were subjected to LA–ICP–MS U–Pb zircon geochronological and geochemical analyses. Results show that the protolith of the amphibolite formed after ca. 459 Ma, and its metamorphism happened at ca. 429 Ma. The protolith of the marble was deposited after ca. 518 Ma, and its metamorphic age is ca. 437 Ma. The amphibolites are divided into two groups based on geochemical data. Group 1 has an OIB‐like feature that might have formed in an environment characterized by oceanic islands and seamounts. Magmas associated with Group 1 were derived from an enriched mantle source with OIB characteristics. The protolith of Group 2 shows IAB feature that formed in an island arc environment. Marbles are interpreted to represent metamorphosed marine carbonate rocks. Integration of geochronological and geochemical study indicates that the marble and amphibolite should be an early Palaeozoic oceanic island–seamount association. It suggests the Cathaysia Block underwent oceanic subduction during collisional orogenesis in the early Palaeozoic. This subduction is thought to have initiated prior to ca. 437 Ma. The U–Pb zircon ages of younger intrusive granites indicate that final amalgamation occurred before ca. 392 Ma. During this process, east and west Wuyi were amalgamated to form the unified Cathaysia Block. Thus, it suggests that there was no unified pre‐Devonian basement in the Cathaysia Block. The pre‐Devonian tectonic setting of the Cathaysia Block was an accretionary orogeny.
Cognitive and functional progression of dementia in two longitudinal studies
Authors: Wang Yuwei , Haaksma Miriam L. , Ramakers Inez H.G.B. , Verhey Frans R.J. , van de Flier Wiesje M. , Scheltens Philip , van Maurik Ingrid , Olde Rikkert Marcel G.M. , Leoutsakos Jeannie‐Marie S. , Melis René J.F.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Previous studies have identified several subgroups (ie, latent trajectories) with distinct disease progression among people with dementia. However, the methods and results were not always consistent. This study aims to perform a coordinated analysis of latent trajectories of cognitive and functional progression in dementia across two datasets.

Methods

Included and analyzed using the same statistical approach were 1628 participants with dementia from the US National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) and 331 participants with dementia from the Dutch Clinical Course of Cognition and Comorbidity study (4C‐Study). Trajectories of cognition and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) were modeled jointly in a parallel‐process growth mixture model.

Results

Cognition and IADL tended to decline in unison across the two samples. Slow decline in both domains was observed in 26% of the US sample and 74% of the Dutch sample. Rapid decline in cognition and IADL was observed in 7% of the US sample and 26% of the Dutch sample. The majority (67%) of the US sample showed moderate cognitive decline and rapid IADL decline.

Conclusions

Trajectories of slow and rapid dementia progression were identified in both samples. Despite using the same statistical methods, the number of latent trajectories was not replicated and the relative class sizes differed considerably across datasets. These results call for careful consideration when comparing progression estimates in the literature. In addition, the observed discrepancy between cognitive and functional decline stresses the need to monitor dementia progression across multiple domains.
A Metallomic Approach to Assess Associations of Serum Metal Levels With Gallstones and Gallbladder Cancer
Authors: Lee Mei‐Hsuan , Gao Yu‐Tang , Huang Yu‐Han , McGee Emma E. , Lam Tram , Wang Bingsheng , Shen Ming‐Chang , Rashid Asif , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Hsing Ann W. , Koshiol Jill
Published: July 2019

Background and Aims

Exposure to metals may promote the risk for cancers. We evaluated the associations of a broad spectrum of metals with gallbladder cancer (GBC) and gallstones.

Approach and Results

A total of 259 patients with GBC, 701 patients with gallstones, and 851 population‐based controls were enrolled in Shanghai, China. A metallome panel was used to simultaneously detect 18 metals in serum through inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry. Logistic regression models were used to estimate crude or adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between metal levels and gallbladder disease. Among the 18 metals tested, 12 were significantly associated with GBC and six with gallstones (P
corrected < 0.002). Boron, lithium, molybdenum, and arsenic levels were associated with GBC compared to gallstones as well as with gallstones compared to population‐based controls. Elevated levels of cadmium, chromium, copper, molybdenum, and vanadium were positively associated with GBC versus gallstones; and the ORadj for the highest tertile (T3) compared to the lowest tertile (T1) ranged from 1.80 to 7.28, with evidence of dose–response trends (P < 0.05). Arsenic, boron, iron, lithium, magnesium, selenium, and sulfur were inversely associated with GBC, with the T3 versus T1 ORadj ranging from 0.20 to 0.69. Arsenic, boron, calcium, lithium, molybdenum, and phosphorus were negatively associated with gallstones, with the T3 versus T1 ORadj ranging from 0.50 to 0.75 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Metals were associated with both GBC and gallstones, providing cross‐sectional evidence of association across the natural history of disease. Longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the temporality of metal exposure and gallbladder diseases and to investigate the mechanisms of disease pathogenesis.
Mobilisation and transport of dissolved organic carbon and iron in peat catchments—Insights from the Lehstenbach stream in Germany using generalised additive models
Authors: Selle Benny , Knorr Klaus‐Holger , Lischeid Gunnar
Published: July 2019

During the last decades, increasing exports of both dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and iron were observed from peat catchments in North America and Europe with potential consequences for water quality of streamwater and carbon storages of soils. As mobilisation and transport processes of DOC and iron in peat catchments are only partly understood, the purpose of this study was to elucidate these processes in an intensively monitored and studied system. Specifically, it was hypothesised that dissimilatory iron reduction in riparian peatland soils mobilises DOC initially adsorbed to iron minerals. During stormflow conditions, both DOC and iron will be transported into the stream network. Ferrous iron may be reoxidised at redox interfaces on its way to the stream, and subsequently, ferric iron could be transported together with DOC as complexes. To test these hypotheses, generalised additive models (GAMs) were applied to 14 years of weekly time series of discharge and concentrations of selected solutes measured in a German headwater stream called Lehstenbach. This stream drains a 4.19‐km2 forested mountain catchment; one third of which is covered by riparian peatland soils. We interpreted results of different types of GAM in the way that (a) iron reduction drove the mobilisation of DOC from peatland soils and that (b) both iron and DOC were transported as complexes after their joint mobilisation to and within the steam. It was speculated that low nitrate availability in the uppermost wetland soil layer, particularly during the growing season, promoted iron reduction and thus the mobilisation of DOC. However, the influence of nitrate on the DOC mobilisation remains relatively uncertain. This influence could be further investigated using methods similar to the GAM analysis conducted here for other catchments with long‐term data as well as detailed measurements of the relevant species in riparian wetland soils and the adjacent stream network.
Clogging process by suspended solids during groundwater artificial recharge: Evidence from lab simulations and numerical modelling
Authors: Chu Tong , Yang Yuesuo , Lu Ying , Du Xinqiang , Ye Xueyan
Published: July 2019

Permeability reduction of infiltration media due to suspended solid (SS) clogging is the bane of groundwater artificial recharge. To overcome the clogging problem and advance the understanding of the process‐based spatial‐temporal evolution of SS clogging, a 1D laboratory column simulation was carried out, followed by numerical modelling of the experimental data in this study. It was found that clogging caused a reduction in the hydraulic conductivity (K) in the upper layer at the beginning and extended deeper to approximately 50 cm, and no reduction in K was detected below 52 cm throughout the experimental period of 129 hr. The most clogged layer spanned from the surface to a depth of 11 cm, and the middle 11–52 cm was characterized by a slight decrease in K. The clogging rates of the different layers decreased with the depth, which was based on data analysis, with the largest value of 0.038 hr−1 in the upper 1 cm. The overall K began to decrease from the surface layer and was increasingly affected by clogging with time. A mathematical model was established to simulate the SS clogging process evolution based on considerations of the attachments and detachments of particles. Then the model was applied to perform several scenario analyses after calibration and validation using the data obtained in the experiment. The simulation results indicated that the SS concentration was much more sensitive than the groundwater depth below the land surface, and 10 days of constant recharge is recommended as the disposal cycle of the clogged layer under the given conditions.
Look to Norway: Serving new families and infants in a multiethnic population
Authors: Leirbakk Maria J. , Magnus Jeanette H. , Torper Johan , Zeanah Paula
Published: July 2019

Despite recognition that immigrant women face significant health challenges, addressing the healthcare needs of immigrants is a source of debate in the United States. Lack of adequate healthcare for immigrants is recognized as a social justice issue, and other countries have incorporated immigrants into their healthcare services. Oslo, the fastest growing capital in Europe, is rapidly shifting to a heterogeneous society prompting organizational action and change. The New Families Program serves first‐time mothers and their infants in an Oslo district serving 53% minorities from 142 countries. Anchored in salutogenic theory, the program aims to support the parent–child relationship, children's development and social adaptation, and to prevent stress‐related outcomes. Formative research has informed the successful program development and implementation within the existing maternal and child healthcare service. Implications for addressing maternal and child health needs of an immigrant population are presented.
MicroRNA‐155 inhibition up‐regulates LEPR to inhibit osteoclast activation and bone resorption via activation of AMPK in alendronate‐treated osteoporotic mice
Authors: Mao Zhongxuan , Zhu Yihai , Hao Weimin , Chu Chao , Su Hongmin
Published: July 2019

Osteoporosis is characterized by a progressive increase in bone fragility, leading to low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. MicroRNA‐155 (miR‐155) is highly expressed in osteoporosis. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of miR‐155 on the inhibition of osteoclast activation and bone resorption by targeting leptin receptor (LEPR) through the adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway in alendronate‐treated osteoporotic mice. An osteoporosis mouse model was established to examine the bone tension and bone density and the expression of miR‐155 in osteoclasts. Binding sites between miR‐155 and LEPR were verified. Osteoclasts in the treatment group were transfected with different mimic, inhibitor, vector, or siRNA for subsequent experiments. The expression of miR‐155, LEPR, AMPK, p‐AMPK, RANKL, OPG, M‐CSF, RANK, TRAP, Bax, Bcl‐2, and the contents of TNF‐α and IL‐1β were all examined. The proliferation and bone resorption of osteoclasts were also detected. Mice with osteoporosis exhibited decreased bone density and bone tension, along with elevated expression of miR‐155. LEPR was verified as a target gene of miR‐155. Down‐regulated miR‐155 was found to increase the expression of LEPR, AMPK, p‐AMPK, OPG, Bax, decrease expression of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, RANKL, M‐CSF, RANK, TRAP, Bcl‐2, inhibit the cell proliferation and bone resorption of osteoclasts. Taken together, decreased miR‐155 up‐regulated LEPR via activation of AMPK, which ultimately repressed osteoclast activation and bone resorption of osteoclasts in alendronate‐treated osteoporotic mice.
A novel de novo splicing mutation c.1444‐2A>T in the TSC2 gene causes exon skipping and premature termination in a patient with tuberous sclerosis syndrome
Authors: Abdelwahed Mayssa , Touraine Renaud , Ben‐Rhouma Bochra , Dhieb Dhoha , Mars Manel , Kammoun Khawla , Hachicha Jamil , Triki Chahnez , Kamoun Hassen , Keskes‐Ammar Leila , Belguith Neila
Published: July 2019

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) syndrome is a neurocutaneous syndrome that affects the brain, skin, and kidneys that has an adverse impact on the patient's health and quality of life. There have been several recent advances that elucidate the genetic complex of this disorder that will help understand the basic neurobiology of this disorder. We report a Tunisian patient with clinical manifestations of TSC syndrome. We investigated the causative molecular defect in this patient using PCR followed by direct sequencing. Subsequently, in silico studies and mRNA analysis were performed to study the pathogenicity of the new variation found in the TSC2. Bioinformatics tools predicted that the novel mutation c.1444‐2A>T have pathogenic effects on splicing machinery. RT‐PCR followed by sequencing revealed that the mutation c.1444‐2A>T generates two aberrant transcripts. The first, with exon 15 skipping, is responsible for the loss of 52 amino acids, which causes the production of an aberrant protein isoform. The second, with the inclusion of 122 nucleotides of intron 14, is responsible for the creation of new premature termination codons (TGA), which causes the production of a truncated TSC2 protein. This study highlighted the clinical features of a Tunisian patient with TSC syndrome and revealed a splicing mutation c.1444‐2A>T within intron 14 of TSC2 gene, which is present for the first time using Sanger sequencing approach, as a disease‐causing mutation in a Tunisian patient with TSC syndrome.
Acute toxicity of intratracheal arsenic trioxide instillation in rat lungs
Authors: Mingxing Su , Haiying Wang , Congsong Sun , Chunyu Yuan , Liu Chao , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the acute toxicity of different concentrations of arsenic trioxide (As2O3; ATO) on rat lungs. In total, 160 Wistar rats were randomly divided into the control, low‐, medium‐ and high‐dose groups, which were exposed to 0, 0.16, 1.60 and 16 μg/kg of ATO by intratracheal instillation, respectively. Samples were collected at 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours after exposure and the dynamic changes indicative of acute lung toxicity were monitored. Compared with the control group, the exposure groups exhibited significant changes such as increased lung water content ratio and protein concentration in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, pulmonary interstitial thickening, cell membrane edema, increased inflammatory factor concentration, JNK and P38 were significantly activated, and the degree of phosphorylation was increased. Furthermore, all the changes in the exposure groups were exposure concentration‐dependent. ATO respiratory tract exposure can cause restrictive ventilatory disturbance in rats, and the degree of injury is exposure concentration‐dependent.
Germacrone attenuates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats via antioxidative and antiapoptotic mechanisms
Authors: Wu Tianhui , Yin Fei , Kong Huimin , Peng Jing
Published: July 2019

Germacrone (GM) is an anti‐inﬂammatory compound extracted from Rhizoma curcuma. Here, we strived to investigate the neuroprotective effects of GM in rat models of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion injury. Rats immediately after cerebral ischemia were intraperitoneally injected with GM at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg. After 1 day of reperfusion, the water content in the brain, infarct volume, and neurological deficits were assessed. Hippocampus neurons were histopathologically examined by hematoxylin and eosin and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling staining. Activities of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐PX) in brain tissue were detected. Real‐time PCR and Western blotting were utilized to quantify the expression of apoptosis markers, such as caspase‐3, Bax, and Bcl‐2. The content of phospho‐Akt (p‐Akt) was also measured using Western blotting. GM treatment markedly decreased the brain water content, infarct volume and the neurological deficits, which was corroborated by attenuated histopathologic change. MDA levels were reduced and activities of GSH, SOD, and GSH‐PX were elevated after GM treatment. Caspase‐3 and Bax were decreased, and Bcl‐2 was increased at both messenger RNA and protein levels by GM treatment. The p‐Akt expression was increased by GM. Our data indicated that the neuroprotective effects of GM may attenuate the injuries from cerebral ischemia/reperfusion in rats through antioxidative and antiapoptotic mechanisms.
The N6‐methyladenosine mRNA methylase METTL14 promotes renal ischemic reperfusion injury via suppressing YAP1
Authors: Xu Yao , Yuan Xiao Dong , Wu Jia Jin , Chen Ruo Yang , Xia Lei , Zhang Ming , Han Cong Hui , Mou Shan
Published: July 2019

Renal ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) is one of the most common causes of acute kidney injury (AKI), which is closely related to high morbidity and mortality. However, the pathogenesis underlying renal IRI is complex and not fully defined. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) was recently found to be an abundant modification in mammalian messenger RNAs. It is implicated in various biological processes, while the role of m6A in IRI is not illustrated. Here we show that the m6A‐methylated RNA level and its methyltransferase METTL14 are elevated in human AKI renal tissues and IRI HK‐2 cells. Moreover, METTL14 knockdown protects the kidney against IRI in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we identified that YAP1 is a direct target of METTL14 in AKI progression. Inhibition of YAP1‐TEAD signaling by peptide 17 abrogates the protective effect of METTL14 against IRI in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results reveal that the N6‐methyladenosine mRNA methylase METTL14 promotes the renal IRI via suppressing YAP1. The discovery of the METTL14‐YAP1 pathway provides an important new perspective for understanding AKI and is conducive to revealing new therapeutic strategies and targets.
Retracted: Ethanolic extract of leaf of Dillenia pentagyna reduces in‐vitro cell migration and induces intrinsic pathway of apoptosis via downregulation of NF‐κβ in human NSCLC A549 cells
Authors: De Debapriya , Chowdhury Priyanka , Panda Sujogya K. , Ghosh Utpal
Published: July 2019

Despite the advancement of the pharmaceutical industry, medicinal plants are still a reliable source of traditional medicines to cure a number of diseases. Various parts of Dillenia pentagyna are used in traditional medicine in India for treatment of various disorders including cancers, but detailed mechanisms are still unknown. Dried leaves of D. pentagyna were extracted with ethanol and termed as an ethanolic extract of leaves of D. pentagyna (EELDP). Our aim was to elucidate the role of EELDP in in‐vitro cell migration and apoptosis in highly metastatic human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. We measured cell viability and in‐vitro cell migration in three different human cancer cells A549, HeLa and U2OS treated with EELDP (0‐0.6 mg/mL). However, A549 cells showed higher sensitivity to EELDP treatment. Hence we studied several key markers of metastasis and apoptosis pathway in A549 cells treated with EELDP. EELDP treatment significantly reduced in‐vitro cell migration, wound healing, expression and activity of MMP‐2, MMP‐9 via reduction of nuclear factor kappa Beta (NF‐κβ). EELDP also reduced vimentin, N‐cadherin and increased claudin‐1. The intrinsic pathway of apoptosis was triggered by EELDP via the NF‐κβ pathway through the increase of the Bax to Bcl2 ratio, leading to the fall of mitochondrial membrane potential and subsequently induced release of cytochrome c, activation of caspase‐3 followed by nuclear fragmentation in A549 cells. Furthermore, we observed change of a few markers of metastasis and apoptosis in other two cell types HeLa and U2OS treated with EELDP. These data implicate that the effect of EELDP is not cell‐specific. Since only 0.1 mg/mL EELDP significantly reduces in‐vitro cell migration and increases apoptosis, the active compound(s) present in EELDP is very much potent to control highly metastatic cancer.
Global access of rifabutin for the treatment of tuberculosis – why should we prioritize this?
Authors: Rockwood Neesha , Cerrone Maddalena , Barber Melissa , Hill Andrew M , Pozniak Anton L
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Rifabutin, a rifamycin of equivalent potency to rifampicin, has several advantages in its pharmacokinetic and toxicity profile, particularly in HIV co‐infected patients on combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). In this commentary, we evaluate evidence supporting increased global use of rifabutin and highlight key recommendations for action.

Discussion

Although extrapolation of data from HIV uninfected patients would suggest non‐inferiority, there has been no randomized controlled study comparing rifabutin versus rifampicin in the outcomes of relapse‐free cure, in drug susceptible tuberculosis (TB), in HIV co‐infected patients on currently utilized cART regimens or in paediatric populations. An important advantage of rifabutin is that compared to the dose adjustments required with rifampicin, it can be co‐administered with the integrase strand transfer inhibitors raltegravir or dolutegravir without the need for dose adjustments. This strategy would be easier to implement in a programmatic setting and would save costs. We have assessed cost incentives to utilize rifabutin and have estimated generic costs for a range of rifabutin dosage scenarios. Where facilities are present for drug re‐challenge and monitoring for drug toxicity and cross‐reactivity, rifabutin offers a switch alternative for adverse drug reactions (ADR)s attributed to rifampicin. This would negate the need to prolong treatment in the absence of a rifamycin as part of short‐course multidrug therapy. There is evidence of incomplete cross‐resistance to rifampicin and rifabutin. Rifabutin may be useful in rifampicin‐resistant TB, in an estimated 20% of cases, based on phenotypic or genotypic rifabutin susceptibility testing.

Conclusions

Rifabutin should be available globally as a first‐line rifamycin in HIV co‐infected individuals and as a switch option in cases of rifampicin associated ADRs. Further studies are needed to ascertain the utility of rifabutin in rifampicin‐resistant rifabutin‐susceptible TB.
Reject rate analysis in digital radiography: an Australian emergency imaging department case study
Authors: Atkinson Samantha , Neep Michael , Starkey Deborah
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Reject analysis in digital radiography (DR) helps guide the education and training of staff, influences department workflow, reduces patient dose and improves department efficiency. The purpose of this study was to investigate rejected radiographs at a major metropolitan emergency imaging department to help form a benchmark of reject rates for DR and to assess what radiographs are being rejected and why.

Methods

A retrospective longitudinal study was undertaken as an in‐depth clinical audit. The data were collected using automated reject analysis software from two digital x‐ray systems from June 2015 to April 2017. The overall reject rate, reasons for rejection as well as the reject rates for individual radiographers, examination types and projections were analysed.

Results

A total of 90,298 radiographic images were acquired and included in the analysis. The average reject rate was 9%, and the most frequent reasons for image rejection were positioning error (49%) and anatomy cut‐off (21%). The reject rate varied between radiographers as well as for individual examination types and projections.

Conclusions

The variation in radiographer reject rates and the high reject rate for some projections indicate that reject analysis is still necessary as a quality assurance tool for DR. A feedback system between radiologists and radiographers may reduce the high percentage of positioning errors by standardising the technical factors used to assess image quality. Future reject analysis should be conducted regularly incorporating an exposure indicator analysis as well as retrospective assessment of individual rejected images.
Establishment of BALB/C mouse models of influenza A H1N1 aerosol inhalation
Authors: Hao Xin‐Yan , Li Feng‐Di , Lv Qi , Xu Yan‐Feng , Han Yun‐Lin , Gao Hong
Published: July 2019

Influenza A (H1N1) is a rapidly spreading acute respiratory illness that remains a worldwide burden on public health. To simulate natural infection routes, BALB/C mice were challenged with the H1N1 virus by aerosol and intranasal instillation routes. We compared the weight change and survival of the mice for 14 consecutive days after infection. The infected mice were euthanized at days 3, 5, 7, and 9 to perform necropsies, lung pathological analyses, viral titers measurement, and lung cytokines examination. The aerosol‐treated mice showed clinical symptoms on day 4, obvious lung lesions on day 5, rapid weight loss on day 7, peak virus replication in the lungs on days 7 to 9, and bronchial epithelial hyperplasia on day 9. However, after intranasal instillation, the mice exhibited clinical signs on day 2, rapid weight loss and obvious lung lesions on day 3, and peak virus replication in the lungs on days 3 to 5; no bronchial epithelial hyperplasia was detected. High levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines were detected in the lungs of infected mice by both two routes. Disease and lung lesion progressions were slower in the mice that inhaled H1N1‐containing aerosols than in those treated by intranasal instillation, and lung lesions were homogeneous in the aerosol group and heterogeneous in the intranasal group. In this study, BALB/C mouse models of H1N1 virus aerosol inhalation were successfully established and compared with mouse models of intranasal inoculation, aerosol mouse models had an infection route and lung pathology characteristics that more closely resembled those observed in humans.
Nearly fatal ventricular arrhythmia following pacemaker implantation in a young female with complete heart block
Authors: Ali Hussam , Lupo Pierpaolo , Foresti Sara , De Ambroggi Guido , Mantovani Riccardo , De Lucia Carmine , Passarelli Ilaria , De Ambroggi Luigi , Cappato Riccardo
Published: July 2019

This case concerns a 24‐year‐old female who developed malignant ventricular tachyarrhythmia a few weeks after pacemaker implantation for complete heart block. Apparently, right ventricular pacing caused significant repolarization abnormalities in both native and paced rhythms with marked QT prolongation and substantial electrical instability. This case highlights other intriguing phenomena in the puzzle of cardiac repolarization and how pacing therapy may alter this complex process providing arrhythmic substrate in vulnerable subjects. Though such arrhythmic events are clinically rare, vulnerable patients or with suspected myocardial disease that may cause QT prolongation should be carefully followed in the course of pacing therapy.
Climate change projections for olive yields in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Fraga Helder , Pinto Joaquim G. , Viola Francesco , Santos João A.
Published: July 2019

The olive tree is one of the most important crops in the Mediterranean basin. Given the strong climatic influence on olive trees, it becomes imperative to assess climate change impacts on this crop. Herein, these impacts were innovatively assessed, based on an ensemble of state‐of‐the‐art climate models, future scenarios and dynamic crop models. The recent‐past (1989–2005) and future (2041–2070, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) olive growing season length (GSL), yield, growing season temperature (GST) and precipitation (GSP), potential (ETP) and actual (ETA) evapotranspiration, water demand (WD) and water productivity (WP) were assessed over Southern Europe. Crop models were fed with an ensemble of EURO‐CORDEX regional climate model data, along with soil and terrain data. For the recent‐past, important differences between western and eastern olive growing areas are found. GSL presents a strong latitudinal gradient, with higher/lower values at lower/higher latitudes. Yields are lower in inner south Iberia and higher in Italy and Greece, which is corroborated by historical data. Southern Iberia shows higher GST and lower GSP, which contributes to a higher ETP, lower ETA and, consequently, stronger WD. Regarding WP, the recent‐past values show similar ranges across Europe. Future projections point to a general increase in GSL along with an increase in GST up to 3°C. GSP is projected to decrease in Western Europe, leading to enhanced WD and consequently a yield decrease (down to −45%). Over eastern European, GSP is projected to slightly increase, leading to lower WD and to a small yield increase (up to +15%). WP will remain mostly unchanged. We conclude that climate change may negatively impact the viability of olive orchards in southern Iberia and some parts of Italy. Thus, adequate and timely planning of suitable adaptation measures are needed to ensure the sustainability of the olive sector.
Trypsin Pre‐Treatment Combined With Growth Factor Functionalized Self‐Assembling Peptide Hydrogel Improves Cartilage Repair in Rabbit Model
Authors: Zanotto Gustavo , Liebesny Paul , Barrett Myra , Zlotnick Hannah , Grodzinsky Alan , Frisbie David
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to improve cartilage repair and integration using self‐assembling KLD hydrogel functionalized with platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB and heparin‐binding insulin‐like growth factor‐1 with associated enzymatic trypsin pre‐treatment of the native cartilage. Bilateral osteochondral defects were created at the central portion of the femoral trochlear groove of 48 skeletally mature, white New Zealand rabbits. One limb received a randomly assigned treatment and the contralateral limb served as the control. Treated defects were exposed to trypsin for 2 min and filled with self‐assembling KLD hydrogel only, or associated to growth factors. All control limbs received KLD hydrogel alone or received only trypsin but not hydrogel. Ninety days post‐defect creation, the rabbits were euthanized and magnetic resonance imaging, radiography, macroscopic evaluation, histology, and immunohistochemistry of the joint and repaired tissue were performed. Mixed model analyses of variance were utilized to assess the outcome parameters and individual comparisons were performed using Least Square Means procedure and differences with p‐value < 0.05 were considered significant. Trypsin enzymatic pre‐treatment improved cellular morphology, cluster formation and subchondral bone reconstitution. Platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB improved subchondral bone healing and basal integration. Heparin‐binding insulin‐like growth factor‐1 associated with platelet‐derived growth factor improved tissue and cell morphology. The authors conclude that self‐assembling KLD hydrogel functionalized with platelet‐derived growth factor and heparin‐binding insulin‐like growth factor‐1 with associated enzymatic pre‐treatment of the native cartilage with trypsin resulted in an improvement on the cartilage repair process. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2307–2315, 2019
Effect of impaction energy on dynamic bone strains, fixation strength, and seating of cementless acetabular cups
Authors: Doyle Ruben , van Arkel Richard J. , Jeffers Jonathan R. T.
Published: July 2019

Seating a cementless acetabular cup via impaction is a balancing act; good cup fixation must be obtained to ensure adequate bone in‐growth and cup apposition, while acetabular fracture must be avoided. Good impaction technique is essential to the success of hip arthroplasty. Yet little guidance exists in the literature to inform surgeons on “how hard” to hit. A drop rig and synthetic bone model were used to vary the energy of impaction strikes in low and high‐density synthetic bone, while key parameters such as dynamic strain (quantifying fracture risk), implant fixation, and polar gap were measured. For high energy impaction (15 J) in low‐density synthetic bone, a peak tensile strain was observed during impaction that was up to 3.4× as large as post‐strike strain, indicating a high fracture risk. Diminishing returns were observed for pushout fixation with increasing energy. Eighty‐five percent of the pushout fixation achieved using a 15 J impaction strike was attained by using a 7.5 J strike energy. Similarly, polar gap was only minimally reduced at high impaction energies. Therefore it is suggested that higher energy strikes increase fracture risk, but do not offer large improvements to fixation or implant‐bone apposition. It may difficult be for surgeons to accurately deliver specific impaction energies, suggesting there is scope for operative tools to manage implant seating. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2367–2375, 2019
Comparison of yeast species in the subgingival oral biofilm of individuals with type 2 diabetes and peri‐implantitis and individuals with peri‐implantitis without diabetes
Authors: Alsahhaf Abdulaziz , Al‐Aali Khulud Abdulrahman , Alshagroud Rana Saud , Alshiddi Ibraheem F. , Alrahlah Ali , Abduljabbar Tariq , Javed Fawad , Vohra Fahim
Published: July 2019

Background

There are no studies that have investigated the presence of yeasts in the subgingival oral biofilm (OB) of type‐2 diabetic and non‐diabetic patients with peri‐implantitis. The aim was to assess the presence of yeasts in the subgingival OB of patients with type 2 diabetes and peri‐implantitis and patients with peri‐implantitis without diabetes.

Methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes with peri‐implantitis (group A), non‐diabetic individuals with peri‐implantitis and without diabetes (group B), and individuals with and without peri‐implantitis (group C) were included. Lifestyle‐related and demographic data were collected using a questionnaire and hemoglobin A1c levels were measured. Peri‐implant plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and probing depth (PD) were evaluated and crestal bone loss (CBL) were measured. Subgingival OB samples were collected and oral yeasts species were identified using ChromAgar medium. Level of significance was set at P <0.05.

Results

The mean age of individuals in groups A (n = 43), B (n = 41), and C (n = 42) were 55.6 ± 6.4, 54.6 ± 4.5, and 57.1 ± 3.3 years, respectively. The mean HbA1c levels were higher in group A (P <0.01) than groups B and C. Peri‐implant PI (P <0.01), BOP (P <0.01), PD (P <0.01), and CBL (P <0.01) were significantly higher in group A compared with patients in groups B and C. Peri‐implant PI (P <0.05), BOP (P <0.05), PD (P <0.05), and CBL (P <0.05) were significantly higher among patients in group B compared with group C. Subgingival yeasts were more often isolated from the OB of patients in groups A (74.4%) and B (46.3%) than group C (7.1%). The most common yeast species identified in all groups was Candida albicans. The CFU/mL for subgingival yeasts were higher in group A than groups B (P <0.01) and C (P <0.01). The CFU/mL for subgingival yeasts were higher in group B than group C (P <0.01).

Conclusion

Candida species (predominantly C. albicans) were more often present in the subgingival OB of patients with and without type 2 diabetes with peri‐implantitis than systemically healthy individuals without peri‐implant diseases.
The San Gregorio Magno lacustrine basin (Campania, southern Italy): improved characterization of the tephrostratigraphic markers based on trace elements and isotopic data
Authors: Petrosino P. , Arienzo I. , Mazzeo F. C. , Natale J. , Petrelli M. , Milia A. , Perugini D. , D′Antonio M.
Published: July 2019

Central–southern Italy is one of the most suitable areas in the world for tephrostratigraphic studies, owing to the numerous volcanic sources with explosive activity during the Pleistocene. This work presents a systematic investigation of the chemical (trace elements) and isotopic (Sr and Nd) compositions of the main tephra markers within lacustrine sediments of the San Gregorio Magno Basin (Campania, southern Italy). This study: (i) provides full geochemical (trace elements and isotopes) characterization of eight significant Upper Pleistocene marker layers (X‐6, X‐5, C‐22, MEGT/Y‐7, CI/Y‐5, C‐10, Y‐3, NYT/C2) widely dispersed over the Mediterranean area; (ii) proposes a new tephra marker for Marine Isotope Stage 7, dated to 240 ka; and (iii) refines the correlations of tephra levels belonging to the investigated sequence. This study highlights that in most cases the Nd isotope composition of the glass and Sr isotope composition of the coexisting minerals are more reliable than 87Sr/86Sr of the glass, and hence is more helpful as a further tool for tephrostratigraphic correlations, as recently proposed in the literature. Moreover, this study is a first step towards the construction of a complete geochemical database for future tephra investigations in the Mediterranean area. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Linking denitrification with ecosystem respiration in mountain streams
Authors: Madinger Hilary L. , Hall Robert O.
Published: July 2019

Rivers denitrify a portion of their nitrate () load, but estimates are difficult using microcosm or reach‐scale measurements that require specific biogeochemical and hydrologic conditions. Measuring reach‐scale oxygen (O2) respiration fluxes is easier than nitrogen (N2) fluxes, thus we paired microcosm estimates of denitrification by N2 production with estimates of aerobic respiration. The median molar ratio of ΔN2:−ΔO2 from 13 streams was 0.011 (95% credible interval 0.0002–0.027 mol:mol). We then measured diel O2 concentrations from 11 streams and converted to ecosystem respiration (ER) using a multiday oxygen model. Given reach‐scale ER of −160 mmol O2 m−2 d−1, the estimated median denitrification was 1.5 mmol N2 m−2 d−1 (credible interval (CI): 0.18–4.21) across our streams. Our estimates of denitrification constituted 19% of gross uptake (CI: 0–51%). In streams, ΔN2:−ΔO2 was lower than in estuarine and marine ecosystems. Despite multiple sources of error, this approach estimates reach‐scale denitrification and variation with concentrations.
An Injectable, Bifunctional Hydrogel with Photothermal Effects for Tumor Therapy and Bone Regeneration
Authors: Luo Shiyu , Wu Juan , Jia Zhanrong , Tang Pengfei , Sheng Jun , Xie Chaoming , Liu Chen , Gan Donglin , Hu Dong , Zheng Wei , Lu Xiong
Published: July 2019

Significant attention has been focused on bone tumor therapy recently. At present, the treatment in clinic typically requires surgical intervention. However, a few tumor cells remain around bone defects after surgery and subsequently proliferate within several days. Thus, fabrication of biomaterials with dual functions of tumor therapy and bone regeneration is significant. Herein, the injectable hydrogel containing cisplatin (DDP) and polydopamine‐decorated nano‐hydroxyapatite is prepared via Schiff base reaction between the aldehyde groups on oxidized sodium alginate and amino groups on chitosan. The hydrogel exhibits sustained release properties for DDP due to the immobilization of DDP via abundant functional groups on polydopamine (PDA). Additionally, given the intense absorption of PDA in the near‐infrared region, the hydrogel exhibits excellent photothermal effects when exposed to the NIR laser (808 nm). Based on the properties, the hydrogel effectively ablates tumor cells (4T1 cells) in vitro and suppresses tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, the hydrogel promotes the adhesion and proliferation of bone mesenchymal stem cells in vitro due to the abundant functional groups on PDA and further induces bone regeneration in vivo. Therefore, the study extends research on novel biomaterials with dual functions of tumor therapy and bone regeneration.