bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of coring method on the preservation of sedimentary and biogeochemical features when sampling soft‐bottom, shallow coastal environments
Authors: Mogg Andrew O. M. , Attard Karl M. , Stahl Henrik , Brand Tim , Turnewitsch Robert , Sayer Martin D. J.
Published: September 2017

It is frequently assumed that taking samples of soft marine sediments using surface‐based gravity coring equipment causes minimal disruption to their sedimentological, biogeochemical, and biological condition. This assumption was evaluated by examining the potential disturbances caused when obtaining soft‐sediment samples either by SCUBA or Craib‐coring, comparing sediment oxygen microprofiles, benthic oxygen flux rates and sediment solid phase analyses (chlorophyll a (Chl a), organic carbon, and porosity) between both methods and against reference values measured in situ by benthic lander. The two sampling methodologies were tested in shallow coastal environments on the west coast of Scotland and generally the results obtained from cores collected using SCUBA exhibited values closest to those observed in situ. Oxygen penetration depth was significantly shallower in cores obtained by Craib‐corer compared with the SCUBA cores. Craib cores also produced higher oxygen uptake rates which could be caused by greater levels of sediment disturbance during sampling. In addition, more homogenous levels of Chl a in the top 1 cm of the Craib cores, compared with the SCUBA samples, may indicate either resuspension or compression during gravity coring. Using SCUBA for shallow‐water soft‐sediment sampling permits steady and controlled core‐tube insertion and extraction, and more measured retrieval of the cores to the surface; this probably accounts for the observed differences. Whereas benthic lander‐based in situ measurement would be the preferred method for analyzing sediment parameters in detail in this type of environment, SCUBA‐based sampling offers a more accurate alternative to surface‐based gravity coring.
Epoxy‐based PANI/zinc oxide/glass fiber nanocomposite coating for corrosion protection of carbon steel
Authors: Rouhollahi Ahmad , Barzegar Khaleghi Mohammad Hamed
Published: September 2017

In this work, a nanocomposite based on conductive polyaniline (PANI) was polymerized, via reverse microemulsion polymerization, in the presence of phosphoric acid and dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid. Applied simultaneously, these acids act as dopants, increasing the solubility of PANI in organic solvents. They further improve the corrosion protection performance of PANI by forming phosphate‐metal complex on metal surface. Zinc oxide nanoparticles were added to the PANI mixture before introducing ammonium persulfate. The final product of polymerization was added to an epoxy resin which served as the matrix for the coating. In order to improve coating elasticity, which can enhance coating resistance against impacts, E‐glass fiber (GF) was added to the coating formulation. It was observed that, with an optimized w/w%, the PANI/zinc oxide/GF composite improved the coating characteristics. Coatings were further subjected to stress‐strain and DC polarization tests, and their cross‐sections were investigated at break point by means of SEM. DC polarization plots revealed that the addition of zinc oxide can also shift the corrosion potential of steel toward positive potentials.
High performance of Al‐Si‐CVD‐FBR coating on P92 steel against steam oxidation at 650 °C: Part 1
Authors: Castañeda Saúl I. , Pérez Francisco J.
Published: September 2017

Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and mass spectrometry (MS) of initial steam oxidation at 650 °C in Ar + 40% H2O for 150 h of the P92 steel with and without aluminum‐silicon‐CVD coating were investigated. We deposited Al‐Si coating on ferritic/martensitic (F/M) P92 steel using the chemical vapor deposition in a fluidized bed reactor (CVD‐FBR) at 580 °C for 2 h and subsequently heat‐treated in Ar at 700 °C for 2 h. The thermodynamic software Thermo‐Calc was used for theoretical simulations in equilibrium under similar experimental oxidation conditions from 500 to 900 °C. TGA verified that the P92 steel coated with Al‐Si had not gained weight compared to the uncoated oxidized P92 steel that gained 5.25 mg/cm2. The coated sample, with protective oxide layers, i.e., silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) on the diffusion zone, was better protected during steam oxidation. Al‐Si‐CVD‐FBR coating helped to delay catastrophic oxidation and avoid loss of chromium from steel through volatilization. SEM: EBSD/EDAX and XRD were used to study morphology/composition and structure of the samples.
Synergistic effects of corrosion time and stress on corrosion of casing steel in H2S/CO2 gas wells
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Zhang Naiyan , Liu Zhiwei , Zhao Wentao
Published: September 2017

Effect of corrosion duration on C110 casing steel was investigated in the stimulated gas field solution containing both 1 MPa CO2 and 1.5 MPa H2S at 90 °C by using a high temperature autoclave. And the corrosion rate prediction model was established based on the corrosion duration effect. In addition, effect of stress on corrosion of steel was analyzed from the thermodynamics and electrochemistry theories, moreover, the casing corrosion life prediction model was established under three axis stress state with considering the influences of stress and corrosion effect. The results reveal that the corrosion rate of C110 casing steel decreases significantly as corrosion time increases, then gradually tends toward stability. In addition, the casing steel is subjected to load and corrosion solution, the thermodynamic activity and the electrochemical reaction potential are changed, ultimately aggravating the process of corrosion. Compared to corrosion time and wall thickness, the internal pressure is the main factor governing the casing corrosion. Therefore, it is suggested that the synergistic effects of corrosion time and stress should be considered in casing safety design and operation.
Inhibition mechanism of nitrite on the corrosion of carbon steel in simulated cooling water systems
Authors: Khani Hosein , Arefinia Reza
Published: September 2017

The corrosion inhibition mechanism of sodium nitrite on carbon steel has been carefully studied in different simulated cooling water solutions by using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The obtained results showed that the corrosion inhibition increases by increasing the nitrite concentration up to 9 mM in 5 mM chloride solution at 25 °C. The corrosion state and corrosion current density are strongly depended upon the nitrite and chloride concentration, solution temperature, and applied potential. The interaction of nitrite with metal surface follows the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and the adsorption is as a physisorption process in a neutral solution.
Phthalonitrile Blends: Simple Way to Improve Physical Properties by Increasing Crosslinking Density
Authors: Laskoski Matthew , Clarke Jadah S. , Neal Arianna , Keller Teddy M.
Published: September 2017

A method to improve the mechanical properties of phthalonitrile (PN) resins at lower postcure temperatures is achieved by blending a second‐generation oligomeric aromatic ether ketone‐based PN resin with 1,1,1‐tris‐[4‐(3,4‐dicyanophenoxy)phenyl]ethane in varying concentrations. Most of the mixtures exhibit a single softening temperature indicating that the two resins are miscibile in one another at the respective concentrations. After various blends are thermally cured to several postcure temperatures yielding crosslinked polymers, the polymers demonstrate superb mechanical properties and thermooxidative stability at lower overall postcure temperatures.
A Criterion for Flow‐Induced Oriented Crystals in Isotactic Polypropylene under Pressure
Authors: Yang Shu‐Gui , Ma Zhe , Lei Jun , Li Liangbin , Hsiao Benjamin S. , Li Zhong‐Ming
Published: September 2017

Flow‐induced oriented crystals have attracted considerable attention because they significantly increase stiffness and strength of polymer products. Naturally, understanding the necessary condition of forming oriented crystals is of importance for both industry and polymer physics. Following the concept of specific work of flow proposed by Mykhaylyk and co‐workers, the expression of the specific work of flow, w
(T,P), was carefully summarized and verified that when w
(T,P) is above a critical specific work of flow, w
c(T,P) = (1.7 ± 0.7) × 107 J m−3, oriented crystals in isotactic polypropylene can be induced by flow at pressures (50, 100, and 150 MPa) and at a undercooling of 65 K. The influences of pressure on w
c(T,P) stem from two facets: one is the influence on the melt viscosity (the Barus law), and the other one is the influence on the equilibrium melting temperature (the Clapeyron equation). The current study can guide real processing to fabricate high‐performance polymer products with oriented crystals.
Pedunculopontine nucleus deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease: A clinical review
Authors: Thevathasan Wesley , Debu Bettina , Aziz Tipu , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Blahak Christian , Butson Christopher , Czernecki Virginie , Foltynie Thomas , Fraix Valerie , Grabli David , Joint Carole , Lozano Andres M. , Okun Michael S. , Ostrem Jill , Pavese Nicola , Schrader Christoph , Tai Chun‐Hwei , Krauss Joachim K. , Moro Elena ,   on behalf of the Movement Disorders Society PPN DBS Working Groupin collaboration with the World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery
Published: September 2017

Pedunculopontine nucleus region deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising but experimental therapy for axial motor deficits in Parkinson's disease (PD), particularly gait freezing and falls. Here, we summarise the clinical application and outcomes reported during the past 10 years. The published dataset is limited, comprising fewer than 100 cases. Furthermore, there is great variability in clinical methodology between and within surgical centers. The most common indication has been severe medication refractory gait freezing (often associated with postural instability). Some patients received lone pedunculopontine nucleus DBS (unilateral or bilateral) and some received costimulation of the subthalamic nucleus or internal pallidum. Both rostral and caudal pedunculopontine nucleus subregions have been targeted. However, the spread of stimulation and variance in targeting means that neighboring brain stem regions may be implicated in any response. Low stimulation frequencies are typically employed (20‐80 Hertz). The fluctuating nature of gait freezing can confound programming and outcome assessments. Although firm conclusions cannot be drawn on therapeutic efficacy, the literature suggests that medication refractory gait freezing and falls can improve. The impact on postural instability is unclear. Most groups report a lack of benefit on gait or limb akinesia or dopaminergic medication requirements. The key question is whether pedunculopontine nucleus DBS can improve quality of life in PD. So far, the evidence supporting such an effect is minimal. Development of pedunculopontine nucleus DBS to become a reliable, established therapy would likely require a collaborative effort between experienced centres to clarify biomarkers predictive of response and the optimal clinical methodology. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The Cauchy problem of a fluid‐particle interaction model with external forces
Authors: Jiang Zaihong , Li Li , Zhong Ning
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we consider the Cauchy problem of a fluid‐particle interaction model with external forces. We first construct the asymptotic profile of the system. The global existence and uniqueness theorem for the solution near the profile is given. Finally, optimal decay rate of the solution to the background profile is obtained by combining the decay rate analysis of a linearized equation with energy estimates for the nonlinear terms. The main method used in this paper is the energy method combining with the macro‐micro decomposition.
Structure–Function Relationship Studies In Vitro Reveal Distinct and Specific Effects of Long‐Chain Metabolites of Vitamin E
Authors: Schmölz Lisa , Wallert Maria , Rozzino Nicolò , Cignarella Andrea , Galli Francesco , Glei Michael , Werz Oliver , Koeberle Andreas , Birringer Marc , Lorkowski Stefan
Published: September 2017

Scope

Cytochrome‐dependent metabolism of vitamin E initially forms the long‐chain metabolites (LCM) 13′‐hydroxychromanols (13′‐OH) and 13′‐carboxychromanols (13′‐COOH), which occur in human blood. Little is known about their biological functions.

Material and results

A structure–activity relationship study using α‐ and δ‐tocopherol (TOH), their LCM (α‐13′‐OH, δ‐13′‐OH, α‐13′‐COOH, and δ‐13′‐COOH) and representatives of their substructures (α‐carboxyethylhydroxychromanol and pristanic acid) is performed to unravel critical structural elements of the LCM for biological activity. Prominent effects are mediated by α‐ and δ‐LCM, as scavenger receptor cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36) expression is induced in human THP‐1 macrophages and lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNos) expression is inhibited in murine RAW264.7 macrophages, while the other molecules are less or not effective.

Conclusion

The LCM effects depend on the presence of the chromanol ring system and on the modification of the side‐chain but not on the substitution pattern of the chromanol ring. Therefore, it can be concluded that for mediation of effects by LCM the entire molecule is needed and that the effects are specific. We propose the LCM of the micronutrient vitamin E as a new class of regulatory metabolites, but further studies are needed to corroborate this hypothesis.
New weighting factor of weighted CTDI equation for PMMA phantom diameter from 8 to 40 cm: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Haba Tomonobu , Koyama Shuji , Kinomura Yutaka , Ida Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Masanao
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The weighted computed tomography dose index (CTDIw) uses measured CTDI values at the center and periphery of a cylindrical phantom. The CTDIw value is calculated using conventional, Bakalyar's, and Choi's weighting factors. However, these weighting factors were produced from only 16‐ and 32‐cm‐diameter cylindrical phantoms. This study aims to devise new weighting factors to provide more accurate average dose in the central cross‐sectional plane of cylindrical phantoms over a wide range of object diameters, by using Monte Carlo simulations.

Methods

Simulations were performed by modeling a Toshiba Aquilion ONE CT scanner, in order to compute the cross‐sectional dose profiles of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cylindrical phantoms of each diameter (8–40 cm at 4‐cm steps), for various tube voltages and longitudinal beam widths. Two phantom models were simulated, corresponding to the CTDI100 method and the method recommended by American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) task group 111. The dose‐computation PMMA cylinders of 1 mm diameter were located between the phantom surfaces and the centers at intervals of 1 mm, from which cross‐sectional dose profiles were calculated. By using linear least‐squares fits to the obtained cross‐sectional dose profiles data, we determined new weighting factors to estimate more accurate average doses in the PMMA cylindrical phantoms by using the CTDIw equation: CTDIw = Wcenter ・ CTDIcenter + Wperiphery ・ CTDIperiphery. In order to demonstrate the validity of the devised new weighting factors, the percentage difference between average dose and CTDIw value was evaluated for the weighting factors (conventional, Bakalyar's, Choi's, and devised new weighting factors) in each calculated cross‐sectional dose profile.

Results

With the use of linear least‐squares techniques, new weighting factors (Wcenter = 3/8 and Wperiphery = 5/8 where Wcenter and Wperiphery are weighting factors for CTDIcenter and CTDIperiphery) were determined. The maximum percentage differences between average dose and CTDIw value were 16, −12, −8, and −6% for the conventional, Bakalyar's, Choi's, and devised new weighting factors, respectively.

Conclusions

We devised new weighting factors (Wcenter = 3/8 and Wperiphery = 5/8) to provide more accurate average dose estimation in PMMA cylindrical phantoms over a wide range of diameter. The CTDIw equation with devised new weighting factors could estimate average dose in PMMA cylindrical phantoms with a maximum difference of −6%. The results of this study can estimate the average dose in PMMA cylindrical phantoms more accurately than the conventional weighting factors (Wcenter = 1/3 and Wperiphery = 2/3).
Spin–lattice relaxation studies on deep eutectic solvent/Choliniumtetrachloroferrate mixtures: Suitability of DES‐based systems towards magnetic resonance imaging studies
Authors: Chandra Abhilash , Kumar Sahu Prabhat , Chakraborty Subhayan , Ghosh Arindam , Sarkar Moloy
Published: September 2017

This study has been undertaken with an aim to investigate the suitability of the deep eutectic solvents (DES)‐based systems for magnetic resonance imaging studies. DESs are used to develop the systems, keeping in mind the fact that these are relatively less toxic than ionic liquids, and hence, DES based magnetic compound is expected to be relatively less toxic than magnetic ionic liquids. In this work, spin–lattice (T1) relaxation measurements are carried out in the binary mixtures of deep eutectic solvent with a paramagnetic component choliniumtetrachloroferrate ([Ch][FeCl4]). Two cholinium ion based DESs, namely ethaline and glyceline have been used for this study. For both ethaline/[Ch][FeCl4] and glyceline/[Ch][FeCl4], T1 is observed to vary significantly with very low concentration of [Ch][FeCl4]. Such an observation can arise due to the high degree of paramagnetic coupling between DESs and [Ch][FeCl4]. The results advocate the suitability of both ethaline/[Ch][FeCl4] and glyceline/[Ch][FeCl4] mixture as a potential T1 contrast agent. Interestingly, when the experiments are carried out in aqueous medium, significant lowering of T1 of water proton with very low concentration of ethaline/[Ch][FeCl4] and glyceline/[Ch][FeCl4] is observed. This study demonstrates that the present systems can act as a suitable T1 contrast agent.
Diffusion parameter mapping with the combined intravoxel incoherent motion and kurtosis model using artificial neural networks at 3 T
Authors: Bertleff Marco , Domsch Sebastian , Weingärtner Sebastian , Zapp Jascha , O'Brien Kieran , Barth Markus , Schad Lothar R.
Published: September 2017

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were used for voxel‐wise parameter estimation with the combined intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) and kurtosis model facilitating robust diffusion parameter mapping in the human brain. The proposed ANN approach was compared with conventional least‐squares regression (LSR) and state‐of‐the‐art multi‐step fitting (LSR‐MS) in Monte‐Carlo simulations and in vivo in terms of estimation accuracy and precision, number of outliers and sensitivity in the distinction between grey (GM) and white (WM) matter. Both the proposed ANN approach and LSR‐MS yielded visually increased parameter map quality. Estimations of all parameters (perfusion fraction f, diffusion coefficient D, pseudo‐diffusion coefficient D*, kurtosis K) were in good agreement with the literature using ANN, whereas LSR‐MS resulted in D* overestimation and LSR yielded increased values for f and D*, as well as decreased values for K. Using ANN, outliers were reduced for the parameters f (ANN, 1%; LSR‐MS, 19%; LSR, 8%), D* (ANN, 21%; LSR‐MS, 25%; LSR, 23%) and K (ANN, 0%; LSR‐MS, 0%; LSR, 15%). Moreover, ANN enabled significant distinction between GM and WM based on all parameters, whereas LSR facilitated this distinction only based on D and LSR‐MS on f, D and K. Overall, the proposed ANN approach was found to be superior to conventional LSR, posing a powerful alternative to the state‐of‐the‐art method LSR‐MS with several advantages in the estimation of IVIM–kurtosis parameters, which might facilitate increased applicability of enhanced diffusion models at clinical scan times.
Trust management in cognitive radio networks: A survey
Authors: Bennaceur Jihen , Idoudi Hanen , Azouz Saidane Leila
Published: September 2017

Cognitive radio is proposed to solve the interference and underutilized license problems. With the development of the cognitive functionalities, classical and new security threats become challenging. To make wireless cognitive radio networks more secure and more reliable, several approaches have been proposed in the literature. In recent years, trust and reputation management (TRM) techniques are more and more considered for cognitive radio networks to secure them against the malicious and misbehaving users that try to deprive others from using the white space. The scope of this survey is to give a comprehensive overview about the existing TRM‐based mechanisms proposed for the cognitive radio networks. We expose the existing classifications of TRM techniques, then we introduce a new classification that takes into account, more exhaustively, different TRM properties and approaches.
Numerical algorithm for solving time‐fractional partial integrodifferential equations subject to initial and Dirichlet boundary conditions
Authors: Abu Arqub Omar , Al‐Smadi Mohammed
Published: September 2017

Recently, many new applications in engineering and science are governed by a series of time‐fractional partial integrodifferential equations, which will lead to new challenges for numerical simulation. In this article, we propose and analyze an efficient iterative algorithm for the numerical solutions of such equations subject to initial and Dirichlet boundary conditions. The algorithm provide appropriate representation of the solutions in infinite series formula with accurately computable structures. By interrupting the
‐term of exact solutions, numerical solutions of linear and nonlinear time‐fractional equations of nonhomogeneous function type are studied from mathematical viewpoint. Convergence analysis, error estimations, and error bounds under some hypotheses which provide the theoretical basis of the proposed algorithm are also discussed. The dynamical properties of these numerical solutions are discussed and the profiles of several representative numerical solutions are illustrated. Finally, the utilized results show that the present algorithm and simulated annealing provide a good scheduling methodology to such integrodifferential equations.
A new method for preparation of PS‐g‐PA6 grafted copolymer micelles
Authors: Liu Yan , Jiang Qiyong , Wang Xiaojun , Li Jing , Chu Xiaohui , Wang Jinjun , Jin Haizhu
Published: September 2017

This work described a new method for the synthesis of PS‐g‐PA6 grafted copolymer micelles. PS‐g‐PA6 sphere micelles were synthesized by using a same solvent at the absence of selective solvent. The morphologies of micelles were characterized by SEM and TEM. The PS‐g‐PA6 micelles loaded Fe3O4 particles have better MRI imaging effect. The synthesis strategy developed here may present a desirable way to fabricate grafted copolymer micelles.
The gelation of hydroxypropyl guar gum by nano‐ZrO2
Authors: Chen Fu , Yang Yang , He Jie , Bu Tao , He Xuemei , He Kunyi , Xiang Chunlin , Yu Zongxue , Wu Hongjun
Published: September 2017

In the study, hydroxypropyl guar gum (HPG) gel is prepared by using Nano‐ZrO2particles as the cross‐linking agent. The Nan‐ZrO2particles are prepared by using oil‐water interface method. The physical properties such as morphology, particle size, and crystal structure of the Nano‐ZrO2particles are analyzed by SEM, particle size analyzer, FT‐IR, and XRD, respectively. The results show that the Nano‐ZrO2particles are spherical particles with a little agglomeration; these spherical particles have a tetragonal structure and higher crystallinity, and the mean diameter of the first‐level grain is 24 nm. The rheological properties including shear stress, complex modulus, elasticity modulus (G′), and viscosity modulus (G′′) of the Nano‐ZrO2cross‐linked HPG gel are investigated. The results show that the Nano‐ZrO2cross‐linked HPG gel is a pseudo‐plastic non‐Newtonian fluid with higher elastic modulus (G′ > G′′) and lower tanδ (tanδ < 1, the ratio of viscous and elastic modulus), which indicate that the Nano‐ZrO2cross‐linked HPG gel may have potential application in fracturing.
DICER1 syndrome: Approach to testing and management at a large pediatric tertiary care center
Authors: van Engelen Kalene , Villani Anita , Wasserman Jonathan D. , Aronoff Laura , Greer Mary‐Louise C. , Tijerin Bueno Marta , Gallinger Bailey , Kim Raymond H. , Grant Ronald , Meyn M. Stephen , Malkin David , Druker Harriet
Published: September 2017

Background

To expand the current knowledge of DICER1 syndrome and to propose criteria for genetic testing based on experience at a pediatric tertiary care center.

Procedure

This study involved a retrospective chart review of the 78 patients (47 probands and 31 family members) seen in the Cancer Genetics Program at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) who were offered genetic testing for DICER1.

Results

Of 47 probands offered genetic testing for DICER1, 46 pursued testing: 11 (23.9%) carried a pathogenic variant and one proband (2.1%) carried a missense variant of uncertain significance with evidence for pathogenicity. Thirty‐one family members of variant‐positive probands were offered testing: eight of the 25 who agreed to testing carried their familial variant (32.0%). Overall, 20 patients were identified to have a variant in DICER1 (eight males, 12 females). Of these, 13 (65.0%) presented with clinical manifestations associated with the syndrome. The most common lesions were pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) (five of 20 patients, 25.0%) and pineoblastoma (three of 20 patients, 15.0%). The average age at which individuals were diagnosed with a primary neoplasm was 5.2 years (range 0.8–20 years, median 3.0). Surveillance at our institution, with a median follow‐up time of 23 months, has identified PPB in two asymptomatic individuals. These lesions were identified at early stages, thus potentially reducing treatment‐related morbidity and mortality.

Conclusion

This study further delineates the DICER1 syndrome phenotype and demonstrates the feasibility of a DICER1 syndrome surveillance protocol for the early detection of tumors.
Predictors of treatment abandonment for patients with pediatric cancer at Indus Children Cancer Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Siddiqui Durr‐e‐Fatima , Ashraf Muhammad Shamvil , Iftikhar Sundus , Belgaumi Asim F.
Published: September 2017

Background

Abandonment of treatment is one of the toughest challenges to deal with in pediatric oncology. It leads to unnecessary mortality and morbidity in patients from low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Procedure

The objective of our retrospective study was to determine the prevalence and predictors for abandonment among children with cancer at our hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. We analyzed data on patients younger than 18 years, diagnosed with any malignancy between November 2014 and May 2016.

Results

From a total of 821 patients, one hundred and eighty‐two (22.2%) patients abandoned treatment at various stages, 92 (11.2%) patients did not initiate treatment at all, and the remaining 90 (11.0%) left during treatment. The gender ratio at registration was skewed toward males but not statistically significant for abandonment. Of 295 registered females, 74 (25.1%) abandoned treatment compared to 108 (20.5%) abandonments among 526 males. In multivariable regression analysis, the type of malignancy, guardian's profession, and travelling from outside the city of Karachi (odds ratio [OR]: 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–2.15; P = 0.039) correlated with increased abandonment. Treatment abandonment was higher among patients with brain tumors (45.7%) and solid tumors (30.8%) and among those whose guardians were associated with a rural profession (24.7%). Monthly income, age, and number of siblings had no impact on the decision to abandon treatment.

Conclusion

Despite the provision of free treatment, the prevalence of abandonment was high. More qualitative data need to be collected to identify and target groups of individuals who may be likely to abandon treatment, thus improving outcome of patients.
Whole lung irradiation in stage IV Wilms tumor patients: Thyroid dosimetry and outcomes
Authors: Morgan Tiffany M. , Danish Hasan , Nanda Ronica H. , Esiashvili Natia , Meacham Lillian R.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

To report the thyroid dosimetry and long‐term follow‐up of childhood cancer survivors treated with whole lung irradiation (WLI) for Wilms tumor.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with pulmonary metastases from Wilms tumor who underwent WLI from 2000 TO 2012 at a single institution were reviewed. Radiation dose to the thyroid gland in each case was calculated. Postradiation thyroid function test (TFT) results and management of thyroid function abnormalities were extracted from the medical records.

Results

Median age at treatment was 5 years (range: 1–9 years), and median follow‐up time was 74.1 months (7.2–198.4). The male/female ratio was 1:1.8. Complete dosimetry data were available for 22 of the 28 patients receiving WLI. Mean thyroid volume was 3.3 cc (range: 1–6.8). The average mean and median mean dose to the thyroid was 6.7 and 7.1 Gy, respectively (range: 1.3–11.7 Gy). Average max dose to the thyroid was 12.4 Gy (range: 7.8–20.3 Gy). Two patients were found to have a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) above the normal range, managed with levothyroxine. Another patient was found to have an isolated elevation of TSH which normalized without treatment. A fourth patient was found to have an enlarged thyroid on examination with no palpable nodules or abnormal TFTs.

Conclusions

Average mean dose to the thyroid gland was 6.7 Gy for this population of stage IV Wilms tumor patients. There was a low rate of thyroid dysfunction, but limited follow‐up. Attention to blocking the thyroid gland as much as possible when designing radiation fields can potentially mitigate the risks of long‐term thyroid effects.
Role and sinergy of block copolymer and carbon nanoparticles on toughness in epoxy matrix
Authors: Schuster Marcia B. , Opelt Carlos V. , Becker Daniela , Coelho Luiz A.F.
Published: September 2017

In this work, the relations between fracture surface roughness in mode I and the content of different carbon nanoparticles, graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) were systematically investigated. A block copolymer (BC) was also used to aid the dispersion process considering its role on fracture toughness. Both KIc and GIc were found to increase significantly with the addition of a BC along with carbon nanoparticles. Roughness measurements showed that the value of surface roughness (Ra) does not depend on the toughness, and decreases as the precrack distance increases. In the system with the greatest amount of graphene (0.5 wt%), the agglomerates impaired the material's tenacity and crack deflection with GNP delamination as the fracture mechanism. As for the CNT/epoxy nanocomposites with the BC, strong adhesion between matrix and nanotubes prevented debonding, so the CNTs break, rather than pulling out, after crack bridging, the so called sliding‐fracture mode failure. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2262–E2273, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and properties of poly(lactic acid)/lipophilized graphene oxide nanohybrids
Authors: Jeong Jae‐Hoon , Choi Myeon‐Cheon , Nagappan Saravanan , Lee Won‐Ki , Ha Chang‐Sik
Published: September 2017

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/lipophilized graphene oxide (LGO) nanohybrids were prepared using a solution blending method. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized using a modified Hummers method and then lipophilized by functionalization with alkylamines such as octylamine, dodecylamine or octadecylamine (ODA). PLA/GO nanohybrids were also prepared for comparison. Among the LGOs, ODA‐GO was chosen to produce the PLA/LGO nanohybrids because ODA‐GO exhibited obvious intercalation behavior and the best dispersibility in chloroform. The properties of the PLA/GO and PLA/LGO nanohybrids were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, a universal testing machine, chemical resistance measurements and hydrolytic degradability analysis. The hydrophobic ODA‐GO was dispersed on the nanoscale within the PLA matrix and the resulting nanohybrids showed significantly higher chemical resistance and reduced hydrolytic degradation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Tightening of gelatin chemically crosslinked networks assisted by physical gelation
Authors: da Silva Marcelo A. , Kang Jie , Bui Tam T. T. , da Silva Lisa M. Borges , Burn Jake , Keddie Joseph L. , Dreiss Cécile A.
Published: September 2017

Developing the use of polymers from renewable sources to build hydrogels with tailored mechanical properties has become an increasing focus of research. The impact of the thermo‐reversible physical networks of gelatin (arising from the formation of triple‐helices) on the structure formation of a chemical network, obtained by crosslinking with glutaraldehyde (a non‐catalytic crosslinker), was studied using optical rotation, oscillatory rheology, and large strain mechanical deformation. We observed a direct correlation between the storage shear modulus of the chemical network grown in the gel state (i.e., simultaneously with the physical network) and the amount of gelatin residues in the triple‐helix conformation (χ). Sinceχis directly affected by temperature, the value of the storage modulus is also sensitive to changes in the temperature of gel formation.χvalues as low as 12% lead to an increase of the shear storage modulus of the crosslinked gel by a factor of 2.7, when compared to a chemical network obtained in the sol state (i.e., in the absence of a physical network). Our results show that the physical network acts as a template, which leads to a greater density of the chemical crosslinks and a corresponding higher elastic modulus, beyond what is otherwise achieved in the absence of a physical network. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys.2017,55, 1850–1858
Powerful tools for genetic modification: Advances in gene editing
Authors: Roesch Erica A. , Drumm Mitchell L.
Published: September 2017

Recent discoveries and technical advances in genetic engineering, methods called gene or genome editing, provide hope for repairing genes that cause diseases like cystic fibrosis (CF) or otherwise altering a gene for therapeutic benefit. There are both hopes and hurdles with these technologies, with new ideas emerging almost daily. Initial studies using intestinal organoid cultures carrying the common, F508del mutation have shown that gene editing by CRISPR/Cas9 can convert cells lacking CFTR function to cells with normal channel function, providing a precedent that this technology can be harnessed for CF. While this is an important precedent, the challenges that remain are not trivial. A logistical issue for this and many other genetic diseases is genetic heterogeneity. Approximately, 2000 mutations associated with CF have been found in CFTR, the gene responsible for CF, and thus a feasible strategy that would encompass all individuals affected by the disease is particularly difficult to envision. However, single strategies that would be applicable to all subjects affected by CF have been conceived and are being investigated. With all of these approaches, efficiency (the proportion of cells edited), accuracy (how often other sites in the genome are affected), and delivery of the gene editing components to the desired cells are perhaps the most significant, impending hurdles. Our understanding of each of these areas is increasing rapidly, and while it is impossible to predict when a successful strategy will reach the clinic, there is every reason to believe it is a question of “when” and not “if.”
Emerging Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potentials of Human Hair Proteomics
Authors: Adeola Henry A. , Van Wyk Jennifer C. , Arowolo Afolake , Ngwanya Reginald M. , Mkentane Khwezikazi , Khumalo Nonhlanhla P.
Published: September 2017

The use of noninvasive human substrates to interrogate pathophysiological conditions has become essential in the post‐ Human Genome Project era. Due to its high turnover rate, and its long term capability to incorporate exogenous and endogenous substances from the circulation, hair testing is emerging as a key player in monitoring long term drug compliance, chronic alcohol abuse, forensic toxicology, and biomarker discovery, among other things. Novel high‐throughput ‘omics based approaches like proteomics have been underutilized globally in comprehending human hair morphology and its evolving use as a diagnostic testing substrate in the era of precision medicine. There is paucity of scientific evidence that evaluates the difference in drug incorporation into hair based on lipid content, and very few studies have addressed hair growth rates, hair forms, and the biological consequences of hair grooming or bleaching. It is apparent that protein‐based identification using the human hair proteome would play a major role in understanding these parameters akin to DNA single nucleotide polymorphism profiling, up to single amino acid polymorphism resolution. Hence, this work seeks to identify and discuss the progress made thus far in the field of molecular hair testing using proteomic approaches, and identify ways in which proteomics would improve the field of hair research, considering that the human hair is mostly composed of proteins. Gaps in hair proteomics research are identified and the potential of hair proteomics in establishing a historic medical repository of normal and disease‐specific proteome is also discussed.
A Proteogenomic Analysis of Haptoglobin in Malaria
Authors: Awasthi Gauri , Tyagi Suchi , Kumar Vipin , Patel Sandip Kumar , Rojh Dharmendar , Sakrappanavar Vijeth , Kochar Sanjay Kumar , Talukdar Arunansu , Samanta Biaus , Das Aparup , Srivastava Sanjeeva , Patankar Swati
Published: September 2017

Scope

Haptoglobin (Hp), an acute phase inflammatory protein is associated with malaria pathogenesis in several proteomics and genomics studies. The Hp gene has two co‐dominant alleles: Hp1 and Hp2 that produce three genotypes: Hp1/Hp1, Hp1/Hp2 and Hp2/Hp2.

Experimental design

In this study, validation of the proteomics data with Multiple Reaction Monitoring Mass Spectroscopy (MRM‐MS) is performed and the association of the Hp gene variants with severe, non‐severe malaria and community (healthy) controls using genotyping PCRs and DNA sequencing is analysed.

Results

Highly significant values of Hp is observed in the MRM assay that show a correlation with severity of malaria and is clearly distinguished from another febrile disease, dengue. Moreover, the Hp2/Hp2 genotype is seen in high percentages in non‐severe malaria patients (74%) and community controls (72%) whereas patients diagnosed with severe malaria show only (31%) of this genotype. Sequencing of the Hp promoter region reveals three SNPs along with 10 unique haplotypes, out of which five are associated with non‐severe and three with severe malaria populations (χ2 = 130; df = 18; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

This proteo‐genomic study focuses on the correlation of the Hp protein and gene with malaria, thus highlighting the pivotal role of this acute phase immune gene in malaria pathogenesis.
Effect of the acylation of TEAD4 on its interaction with co‐activators YAP and TAZ
Authors: Mesrouze Yannick , Meyerhofer Marco , Bokhovchuk Fedir , Fontana Patrizia , Zimmermann Catherine , Martin Typhaine , Delaunay Clara , Izaac Aude , Kallen Joerg , Schmelzle Tobias , Erdmann Dirk , Chène Patrick
Published: September 2017

The Hippo pathway is deregulated in various cancers, and the discovery of molecules that modulate this pathway may open new therapeutic avenues in oncology. TEA/ATTS domain (TEAD) transcription factors are the most distal elements of the Hippo pathway and their transcriptional activity is regulated by the Yes‐associated protein (YAP). Amongst the various possibilities for targeting this pathway, inhibition of the YAP:TEAD interaction is an attractive strategy. It has been shown recently that TEAD proteins are covalently linked via a conserved cysteine to a fatty acid molecule (palmitate) that binds to a deep hydrophobic cavity present in these proteins. This acylation of TEAD seems to be required for efficient binding to YAP, and understanding how it modulates the YAP:TEAD interaction may provide useful information on the regulation of TEAD function. In this report we have studied the effect of TEAD4 acylation on its interaction with YAP and the other co‐activator transcriptional co‐activator with PDZ‐binding motif (TAZ). We show in our biochemical and cellular assays that YAP and TAZ bind in a similar manner to acylated and non‐acylated TEAD4. This indicates that TEAD4 acylation is not a prerequisite for its interaction with YAP or TAZ. However, we observed that TEAD4 acylation significantly enhances its stability, suggesting that it may help this transcription factor to acquire and/or maintain its active conformation.
Target highlights from the first post‐PSI CASP experiment (CASP12, May–August 2016)
Authors: Kryshtafovych Andriy , Albrecht Reinhard , Baslé Arnaud , Bule Pedro , Caputo Alessandro T. , Carvalho Ana Luisa , Chao Kinlin L. , Diskin Ron , Fidelis Krzysztof , Fontes Carlos M. G. A. , Fredslund Folmer , Gilbert Harry J. , Goulding Celia W. , Hartmann Marcus D. , Hayes Christopher S. , Herzberg Osnat , Hill Johan C. , Joachimiak Andrzej , Kohring Gert‐Wieland , Koning Roman I. , Lo Leggio Leila , Mangiagalli Marco , Michalska Karolina , Moult John , Najmudin Shabir , Nardini Marco , Nardone Valentina , Ndeh Didier , Nguyen Thanh‐Hong , Pintacuda Guido , Postel Sandra , van Raaij Mark J. , Roversi Pietro , Shimon Amir , Singh Abhimanyu K. , Sundberg Eric J. , Tars Kaspars , Zitzmann Nicole , Schwede Torsten
Published: September 2017

The functional and biological significance of the selected CASP12 targets are described by the authors of the structures. The crystallographers discuss the most interesting structural features of the target proteins and assess whether these features were correctly reproduced in the predictions submitted to the CASP12 experiment.
Protective walls against effects of vapor cloud fast deflagration: CFD recommendations for design
Authors: Vyazmina Elena , Jallais Simon , Beccantini Alberto , Trélat Sophie
Published: September 2017

Protective walls are a well‐known and efficient way to mitigate overpressure effects of explosions. For detonation there are multiple published investigations concerning interactions of blast waves and walls, whereas for deflagration no well‐adapted and rigorous method has been reported in the literature. This article describes the validation of a new computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling approach for fast deflagrations. In a first step, the vapor cloud explosion involving a fast deflagration is substituted by an equivalent vessel burst problem. The purpose of this step is to avoid reactive flow computations. In a second step, CFD is used to model the pressure propagation from the equivalent (nonreactive) vessel burst problem. After verifying the equivalence of the fast deflagration and the vessel burst problem in the first step, the ability of two CFD codes FLACS and Europlexus is examined for situations with and without barriers. Parametric analysis by means of numerical simulations is performed to investigate the efficiency of finite barriers to mitigate blast waves. Another parametric study shows how the maximum overpressure value in the shade of the barrier depends on the magnitude of the incoming overpressure wave. On this basis, several recommendations are suggested for designing protective walls. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Process Saf Prog 37:56–66, 2018
Outstanding Performance as Cu Top Gate IGZO TFT With Large Trans‐Conductance Coefficient by Adopting Double‐Layered Al2O3/SiNx Gate Insulator
Authors: Kim Yujin , Lee Kwang‐Heum , Mun Geumbi , Park Kyeongwoo , Park Sang‐Hee Ko
Published: September 2017

Gate insulator (GI) materials in top gate structured InGaZnO thin‐film transistor (TFT) with copper gate electrode are examined for the application to the large area display. To overcome the problems with hydrogen diffusion, which can influence the number of carriers in oxide semiconductor and to gain large trans‐conductance coefficient, a double‐layered GI of 30 nm Al2O3/120 nm SiNxis adopted. The TFT showed field‐effect mobility, Von, SS, and hysteresis of 12.8 cm2 V−1 s−1, −0.7 V, 0.17 V decade−1, and almost 0 V, respectively, and the ΔVon under the positive bias stress of 20 V and negative bias stress of −20 V at 60 C for 10 000 s are +0.1 and −0.4 V, respectively.
Numerical Investigations on the n+‐GaN/AlGaN/p+‐GaN Tunnel Junction for III‐Nitride UV Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Luping , Zhang Yonghui , Tian Kangkai , Chu Chunshuang , Fang Mengqian , Meng Ruilin , Shi Qiang , Zhang Zi‐Hui , Bi Wengang
Published: September 2017

In this report, a parametric investigation on the n+‐GaN/AlGaN/p+‐GaN tunnel junction is made for III‐nitride based ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs). It is found that, on one hand, by using various Al compositions and AlGaN layer thicknesses, the n+‐GaN/AlGaN/p+‐GaN tunnel junction can modify the electric field therein, which will affect the carrier tunneling probability and the current‐voltage characteristics. On the other hand, the Al composition and the AlGaN layer thickness also have a strong impact on the tunnel region width, which will affect the current flowing path and then influence the hole distribution apart from the p‐type ohmic contact. This work conducts a comprehensive analysis and presents an in‐depth understanding regarding the n+‐GaN/AlGaN/p+‐GaN tunnel junction, so that the hole concentration and the internal quantum efficiency can be significantly improved for III‐nitride UV LEDs.
Carbon Nanotube Synthesis Using Fe‐Mo/MgO Catalyst with Different Ratios of CH4 and H2 Gases
Authors: Lobiak Egor V. , Shlyakhova Elena V. , Gusel'nikov Artem V. , Plyusnin Pavel E. , Shubin Yury V. , Okotrub Alexander V. , Bulusheva Lyubov G.
Published: September 2017

The huge molecular cluster {Fe30Mo72} has been used as a source of catalyst nanoparticles in catalytic chemical vapour deposition (CCVD) process of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) synthesis. Thermal decomposition of {Fe30Mo72} in air is shown by X‐ray diffraction analysis to produce iron molybdate, which is converted to alloyed Fe‐Mo and Fe nanoparticles at elevated temperature and reduction environment. These nanoparticles supported on MgO, catalyse the growth of single‐walled, double‐walled and/or multi‐walled CNTs depending on the active metal loading and ratio of methane and hydrogen in the feedstock. The structural parameters of the products are studied by transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The best CNT samples are tested as field electron emitters.