bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DGCR5 promotes cancer stem cell‐like properties of radioresistant laryngeal carcinoma cells by sponging miR‐506 via Wnt pathway
Authors: Tang Tian , Shan Guang
Published: April 2019

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been recognized as the significant cause of tumor recurrence. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in various cancers, including human laryngeal cancer. So far the correlation between lncRNA DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 5 (DGCR5) and CSC‐like properties in human laryngeal cancer remains barely known. In our current study, two human larynx squamous carcinoma cell lines (Hep‐2 and Hep‐2R) with different radio sensitivities were cultured. Interestingly, CSC‐like phenotypes were much more enriched in Hep‐2R cells. We found that DGCR5 was upregulated and microRNA‐506 (miR‐506) was downregulated in Hep‐2R cells. In addition, silence of DGCR5 could inhibit the stemness and enhance the radiosensitivity of Hep‐2R cells. Meanwhile, overexpression of miR‐506 also suppressed the CSC‐like traits and the radiosensitivity was increased significantly. In addition, miR‐506 was predicted as target of DGCR5 and the correlation between them was validated in our study. Finally, we observed that Wnt pathway exerted a significant role in human laryngeal CSCs and DGCR5 inhibition could repress Wnt signaling activity by sponging miR‐506. In vivo assays were performed and we found that DCGR5 depressed stemness of human laryngeal cancer cells through modulating miR‐506 and Wnt signaling pathway. Taken these together, we reported that DGCR5 induced CSC‐like properties by sponging miR‐506 through activating Wnt in human laryngeal carcinoma cells.
Biliary atresia: a scientometric analysis of the global research architecture and scientific developments
Authors: Friedmacher Florian , Ford Kathryn , Davenport Mark
Published: April 2019

Biliary atresia (BA) is a rare cholangiopathy of largely unknown etiology and unpredictable outcome. There has been an increasing number of BA‐related publications, which may challenge researchers to determine their actual scientific value. This study aimed to evaluate the global research activity and developments relating to BA using a combination of scientometric methodologies and visualization tools. A comprehensive search strategy for the Web of Science™ database was designed to obtain bibliographic data on scientific BA publications for the timespan 1900–2018. Research output of countries, institutions, individual authors and collaborative networks was analyzed. Semi‐qualitative research measures including citation rate and h‐index were assessed. Choropleth mapping and network diagrams were used to visualize results. In total, 4,459 publications on BA were identified (88.5% in English), originating from 63 countries. The largest number was published by the USA (n = 991; 22.2%), Japan (n = 667; 15.0%) and the UK (n = 294; 6.6%). The USA combined the highest number of cooperation articles (n = 140). The most productive collaborative network was established between the USA and Canada (n = 17). Scientific papers from the UK received the highest average citation rate (16.7), whereas the USA had the highest country‐specific h‐index (59). Eighty‐eight (2.0%) items were published under the auspices of multicenter consortiums and registries. The most productive institutions and authors were based in the USA, the UK, Japan, France, Canada and Taiwan. BA‐related research has constantly been progressing, becoming more multidisciplinary but with main research endeavors concentrated in a few high‐income countries. Studies into pathogenesis of BA remain uncommon, but are sorely needed to foster true scientific progress with this rare disease. Hence, international collaborative and translational research should be strengthened to allow further evolution in this field.
Targeted 64Cu‐labeled gold nanoparticles for dual imaging with positron emission tomography and optical imaging
Authors: Pretze Marc , van der Meulen Nick P. , Wängler Carmen , Schibli Roger , Wängler Björn
Published: April 2019

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been used for many years in cancer treatment mainly for brachytherapy, but in the last 15 years, the focus has shifted to the development of ultrasmall target‐specific AuNPs with homogeneous size and, ultimately, tailored shapes for use in various imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), Raman, or photoacoustic imaging. Here, we report on the development of tumor‐specific AuNPs as diagnostic tools intended for the dual detection of prostate cancer via optical imaging (OI) and positron emission tomography (PET). The AuNPs were decorated with a near‐infrared dye and NODAGA chelator for complexation with radiometals. Radiolabeling with 64Cu was performed either indirect by complexation with NODAGA‐AuNPs or by direct reduction of [64Cu]Cu(0) onto the surface of the AuNPs. Both methods yielded stable 64Cu‐AuNPs with radiochemical yield more than 95% confirmed by HPLC. 64Cu‐AuNPs were evaluated in a dual‐imaging setting in vitro and in vivo and exhibited favorable diagnostic properties concerning detection, biodistribution, and clearance. Furthermore, the first therapeutic properties of the 64Cu‐AuNPs were evaluated in vitro concerning acute and long‐term toxicity, indicating that these 64Cu‐AuNPs could be used in therapeutic concepts in the future.
Proton density fat fraction MRI of vertebral bone marrow: Accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility among readers, field strengths, and imaging platforms
Authors: Schmeel Frederic Carsten , Vomweg Toni , Träber Frank , Gerhards Arnd , Enkirch Simon Jonas , Faron Anton , Sprinkart Alois Martin , Schmeel Leonard Christopher , Luetkens Julian Alexander , Thomas Daniel , Kukuk Guido Matthias
Published: April 2019

Background

Chemical shift‐encoding based water‐fat MRI is an emerging method to noninvasively assess proton density fat fraction (PDFF), a promising quantitative imaging biomarker for estimating tissue fat concentration. However, in vivo validation of PDFF is still lacking for bone marrow applications.

Purpose

To determine the accuracy and precision of MRI‐determined vertebral bone marrow PDFF among different readers and across different field strengths and imager manufacturers.

Study Type

Repeatability/reproducibility.

Subjects

Twenty‐four adult volunteers underwent lumbar spine MRI with one 1.5T and two different 3.0T MR scanners from two vendors on the same day.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T and 3.0T/3D spoiled‐gradient echo multipoint Dixon sequences.

Assessment

Two independent readers measured intravertebral PDFF for the three most central slices of the L1–5 vertebral bodies. Single‐voxel MR spectroscopy (MRS)‐determined PDFF served as the reference standard for PDFF estimation.

Statistical Tests

Accuracy and bias were assessed by Pearson correlation, linear regression analysis, and Bland–Altman plots. Repeatability and reproducibility were evaluated by Wilcoxon signed rank test, Friedman test, and coefficients of variation. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to validate intra‐ and interreader as well as intraimager agreements.

Results

MRI‐based PDFF estimates of lumbar bone marrow were highly correlated (r2 = 0.899) and accurate (mean bias, –0.6%) against the MRS‐determined PDFF reference standard. PDFF showed high linearity (r2 = 0.972–0.978) and small mean bias (0.6–1.5%) with 95% limits of agreement within ±3.4% across field strengths, imaging platforms, and readers. Repeatability and reproducibility of PDFF were high, with the mean overall coefficient of variation being 0.86% and 2.77%, respectively. The overall intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.986 as a measure for an excellent interreader agreement.

Data Conclusion

MRI‐based quantification of vertebral bone marrow PDFF is highly accurate, repeatable, and reproducible among readers, field strengths, and MRI platforms, indicating its robustness as a quantitative imaging biomarker for multicentric studies.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1762–1772.
A predictive nomogram for individualized recurrence stratification of bladder cancer using multiparametric MRI and clinical risk factors
Authors: Xu Xiaopan , Wang Huanjun , Du Peng , Zhang Fan , Li Shurong , Zhang Zhongwei , Yuan Jing , Liang Zhengrong , Zhang Xi , Guo Yan , Liu Yang , Lu Hongbing
Published: April 2019

Background

Preoperative prediction of bladder cancer (BCa) recurrence risk is critical for individualized clinical management of BCa patients.

Purpose

To develop and validate a nomogram based on radiomics and clinical predictors for personalized prediction of the first 2 years (TFTY) recurrence risk.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Preoperative MRI datasets of 71 BCa patients (34 recurrent) were collected, and divided into training (n = 50) and validation cohorts (n = 21).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T MRI/T2‐weighted (T2W), multi‐b‐value diffusion‐weighted (DW), and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) sequences.

Assessment

Radiomics features were extracted from the T2W, DW, apparent diffusion coefficient, and DCE images. A Rad_Score model was constructed using the support vector machine‐based recursive feature elimination approach and a logistic regression model. Combined with the important clinical factors, including age, gender, grade, and muscle‐invasive status (MIS) of the archived lesion, tumor size and number, surgery, and image signs like stalk and submucosal linear enhancement, a radiomics‐clinical nomogram was developed, and its performance was evaluated in the training and the validation cohorts. The potential clinical usefulness was analyzed by the decision curve.

Statistical Tests

Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to explore the independent predictors for BCa recurrence prediction.

Results

Of the 1872 features, the 32 with the highest area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic were selected for the Rad_Score calculation. The nomogram developed by two independent predictors, MIS and Rad_Score, showed good performance in the training (accuracy 88%, AUC 0.915, P << 0.01) and validation cohorts (accuracy 80.95%, AUC 0.838, P = 0.009). The decision curve exhibited when the risk threshold was larger than 0.3, more benefit was observed by using the radiomics‐clinical nomogram than using the radiomics or clinical model alone.

Data Conclusion

The proposed radiomics‐clinical nomogram has potential in the preoperative prediction of TFTY BCa recurrence.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1893–1904.
Influence of temporal parameters of DCE‐MRI on the quantification of heterogeneity in tumor vascularization
Authors: Crombé Amandine , Saut Olivier , Guigui Jerome , Italiano Antoine , Buy Xavier , Kind Michèle
Published: April 2019

Background

Evaluating heterogeneity in tumor vascularization through texture analysis could improve predictions of patients' outcome and response evaluation.

Purpose

To investigate the influence of temporal parameters on texture features extracted from dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI parametric maps.

Study type

Prospective cross‐sectional study.

Subjects

Twenty‐five adults with soft‐tissue sarcoma (STS), median age: 68 years.

Field Strength/Sequence

DCE‐MRI acquisition using a CAIPIRINHA‐Dixon‐TWIST‐VIBE sequence at 1.5T (temporal resolutions: 2 sec, duration: 5 min).

Assessment

The area under time–intensity curve (AUC) and Ktrans maps were generated for several temporal resolution (dt = 2 sec, 4 sec, 6 sec, 8 sec, 10 sec, 12 sec, 20 sec) and scan durations (T = 3 min, 4 min, 5 min for a 6‐sec sampling) by downsampling and truncating the initial DCE‐MRI sequence. Tumor volume was manually segmented and propagated on all parametric maps. Thirty‐two first‐ and second order‐texture features were extracted per map to quantify the intratumoral heterogeneity.

Statistical Tests

The influence of temporal parameters on texture features was studied with repeated‐measures analysis of variance (or nonparametric equivalent). The dispersion of each texture feature depending on temporal parameters was estimated with coefficients of variation (CVs). The performances of multivariate models to predict the response to chemotherapy (ie, binary logistic regression based on the baseline texture features) were compared.

Results

The temporal resolution had a significant influence on 12/32 (37.5%) and 14/32 (43.8%) texture features evaluated on AUC and Ktrans maps, respectively (range of P < 0.0001–0.0395). Scan duration had a significant influence on 23/32 (71.9%) texture features from Ktrans map (range of P < 0.0001–0.0321). Dispersion was high (mean CV >0.5) with sampling for 2/32 (6.3%) and 10/32 (31.3%) features from AUC and Ktrans maps, respectively; and with truncating for 6/32 (18.8%) features from Ktrans map. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of predictive models ranged from 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.54–1.00], with dt = 6 sec T = 4 min) to 0.90 (95% CI = [0.74–1.00], with dt = 6 sec T = 5 min).

Data Conclusion

The values of texture features extracted from DCE‐MRI parametric maps can be influenced by temporal parameters, which can lead to variations in performance of predictive models.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1773–1788.
Assigning the ESI mass spectra of organometallic and coordination compounds
Authors: McIndoe J. Scott , Vikse Krista L.
Published: April 2019

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) is a useful technique for solving organometallic and coordination chemistry characterization problems that are difficult to address using traditional methods. However, assigning the ESI mass spectra of such compounds can be challenging, and the considerations involved in doing so are quite different from assigning the mass spectra of purely organic samples. This is a tutorial article for organometallic/coordination chemists using ESI‐MS to analyze pure compounds or reaction mixtures. The fundamentals of assigning ESI mass spectra are discussed within the context of organometallic and coordination systems. The types of ions commonly observed by ESI‐MS are categorized and described. Finally, a step‐by‐step guide for the assignment of organometallic and coordination chemistry ESI mass spectra is provided along with two case studies.
Synergy or substitution? The interactive effects of insiders' fairness and support and organizational socialization tactics on newcomer role clarity and social integration
Authors: Nasr Mohamed Ikram , El Akremi Assâad , Coyle‐Shapiro Jacqueline A.‐M.
Published: April 2019

Drawing on fairness heuristics theory (Lind, 2001) and cue consistency theory (Maheswaran & Chaiken, 1991; Slovic, 1966), we test a moderated mediation model that examines whether the institutionalization of organizational socialization tactics enhances or constrains the beneficial effects of supervisory and coworker‐referenced justice and support on newcomer role clarity and social integration. The findings of a three‐wave study of 219 French newcomers show that although institutionalized tactics strengthen the positive indirect effects of supervisory interpersonal and informational justice on role clarity, via perceived supervisor support, it also acts as a substitute that weakens the positive indirect effect of coworker‐referenced interpersonal justice on social integration, via perceived coworker support. Implications of the findings for socialization research and practice are discussed.
Structural characterization of polysaccharide‐coated iron oxide nanoparticles produced by Staphylococcus warneri, isolated from a thermal spring
Authors: Kianpour Sedigheh , Ebrahiminezhad Alireza , Deyhimi Maryam , Negahdaripour Manica , Raee Mohammad Javad , Mohkam Milad , Rezaee Hamideh , Irajie Cambyz , Berenjian Aydin , Ghasemi Younes
Published: April 2019

The biocompatible‐coated iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) have attracted a great interest because of their various applications in biological science and medicine. In most cases, the toxic effect of naked iron oxide nanoparticles is completely cleared by adding a biocompatible coating, such as polysaccharides, polyethylene glycol (PEG), or biosynthesis of biocompatible‐coated IONs using microorganisms such as bacteria. In the present study, polysaccharide‐coated iron oxide nanoparticles were produced by a strain of Staphylococcus warneri isolated from a thermal spring. For identification of the isolated bacterium, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was done. Characterization of the nanoparticles was performed for the first time, using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray crystallography (XRD), Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)−2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Results indicated that the spherical iron oxide nanoparticles were coated by a polysaccharide (13.6%), which provided a large negative charge of −91 mV and very low saturation magnetization of around 0.28 emu/g. The result of MTT assay on MOLT‐4 cell lines showed that the percentage of viability was between 95.6% and 68.9% in the 10–100 µM of nanoparticle concentrations with a high IC
50 value, which makes it appropriate for biomedical applications such as cancer therapy.
Methyl salicylate delays peel yellowing of ‘Zaosu’ pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) during storage by regulating chlorophyll metabolism and maintaining chloroplast ultrastructure
Authors: Zhang Huaiyu , Wang Rui , Wang Tian , Fang Chunxia , Wang Junjie
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

In some cultivars, yellowing resulting from chlorophyll breakdown has a direct and negative effect on food supply and health. The ‘Zaosu’ pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd.), a commercial Asian pear cultivar in China, rapidly turns yellow when stored at room temperature after harvest. To develop techniques that delay or suppress chlorophyll degradation, the effects of methyl salicylate (MeSA) on yellowing in ‘Zaosu’ pear fruit during storage were evaluated.

RESULTS

Compared with the untreated fruit, the application of 0.05 mmol L−1 MeSA delayed the decline of the total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b content, and maintained more intact chloroplasts with fewer and smaller plastoglobuli. Methyl salicylate suppressed enzyme activities, including chlorophyllase, chlorophyll‐degrading peroxidase, Mg dechelatase, and pheophytinase, and the expression levels of NYC, NOL, CLH, SGR, PPH, PAO and RCCR in treated fruit.

CONCLUSION

Methyl salicylate could delay chlorophyll breakdown in the fruit. The results also suggested that the conversion from chlorophyll a to pheophorbide a could proceed via two pathways, and that alternative pathways for the breakdown of chlorophyll a exist in ‘Zaosu’ pears. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Pre‐harvest methyl jasmonate treatments increase antioxidant systems in lemon fruit without affecting yield or other fruit quality parameters
Authors: Serna‐Escolano Vicente , Valverde Juan M , García‐Pastor María E , Valero Daniel , Castillo Salvador , Guillén Fabián , Martínez‐Romero Domingo , Zapata Pedro J , Serrano Maria
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Jasmonic acid (JA) and its volatile derivative methyl jasmonate (MeJA) are hormones involved in the regulation of many processes in plants and act (when applied as a post‐ or pre‐harvest treatment) to increase fruit bioactive compounds with antioxidant potential. However, there is no literature available regarding the effect of pre‐harvest MeJA treatment on lemon fruit antioxidant systems, which was the aim of the present study.

RESULTS

MeJA treatment (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 mmol L–1) increased antioxidant compounds, such as phenolics, in the juice and flavedo of ‘Fino’ and ‘Verna’ lemons at harvest, with the most effective concentration being 0.1 mmol L–1 in both cultivars. In addition, catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activities were also increased by MeJA treatment, with the highest increases being also found with 0.1 mmol L–1. The increases in APX and CAT were maintained from one treatment to another during fruit development on the tree, whereas the increase on POD disappeared after 8–10 days of each treatment. For both antioxidant systems, the highest increases were found in lemon harvested at the commercial ripening stage. By contrast, crop yield, fruit ripening process and quality parameters were generally not affected by MeJA treatment.

CONCLUSION

Preharvest MeJA treatment could be a useful tool for increasing antioxidant potential and the health beneficial effects of lemon fruit consumption, given the relationship between these properties and phenolic content. Moreover, the increased concentration of phenolics and the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the flavedo of MeJA treated fruit could increase lemon tolerance to chilling injury and decay during postharvest storage. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Transformation of rice bran into single‐cell protein, extracted protein, soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, and minerals
Authors: Pruksasri Suwattana , Wollinger Kristoffer Kurt , Novalin Senad
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

It is evident that, during the conversion of agricultural sidestreams into valuable substances, a complete utilization is necessary for economic reasons. The present study investigated the transformation of defatted rice bran into proteins (single cell and extracted protein), soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, and minerals.

RESULTS

In a process chain, starch/glucose was enzymatically extracted and converted into single cell protein (Chlorella sorokiniana). Then, rice bran proteins were extracted and partially precipitated. The remaining liquid was ultrafiltered (3 kDa) to obtain a further protein fraction and minerals. The protein fraction contained a considerable amount of soluble dietary fiber. With these steps, around 69% of the rice bran was transformed, resulting in three protein fractions with an average purity of approximately 45% and minerals with a purity of approximately 63%. In a subsequent process, the remaining cake was disintegrated at 95 °C and pH 2. A further 12% of the rice bran could be liquefied. After centrifugation, the supernatant was subjected to ultrafiltration (3 kDa) to obtain soluble dietary fiber in the retentate and minerals in the permeate. However, only around 2% of the rice bran was converted into soluble dietary fiber, whereas the remainder comprised a mixture of minerals and monomeric sugars.

CONCLUSION

The process chain can be rearranged and optimized especially to increase the output of soluble dietary fiber and proteins as a result of using the digested monomeric sugars for algae cultivation. At the end of the process, 18% of rice bran remained as an insoluble dietary fiber fraction. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Targeted metabolite profiling to gain chemometric insight into Indian pomegranate cultivars and elite germplasm
Authors: Singh Sukhvinder Pal , Pal Ram Krishna , Saini Manpreet Kaur , Singh Jagdeep , Gaikwad Nilesh , Parashuram Shilpa , Kaur Charanjit
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Pomegranate fruit is an excellent source of bioactive polyphenolics, known to contribute significantly to human health. India is the largest producer of pomegranate in the world and produces the finest quality fruit with highly desirable consumer traits such as soft seeds, low acidity, and attractive fruit and aril color. Knowledge of the extent of variation in key metabolites (sugars, organic acids, phenolics, and anthocyanins) is key to selecting superior genotypes for germplasm improvement. Relevant information with respect to Indian genotypes is scarce. The present study therefore aims to evaluate quantitatively important metabolites in some cultivars and elite germplasm of pomegranate in India.

RESULTS

Identification and quantification of primary and secondary metabolites such as sugars, organic acids, vitamin C, polyphenolics, and anthocyanins were conducted using a liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry (LC–MS) platform. Fructose and citric acid were the predominant sugar and organic acid, respectively. Wild genotypes had significantly higher concentrations of organic acids, antioxidant activity, and phenolics, namely punicalagin, ellagic acid, sinapic, and ferulic acid.

CONCLUSION

Cyanidin and delphinidin derivatives of anthocyanins were more abundant in red aril commercial genotypes. Results suggest that wild‐sour accessions represent a rich source of polyphenolics that can be utilized in future breeding programs to breed healthier varieties, food supplements, and pharmaceutical products. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Matrix solid‐phase dispersion coupled with hollow fiber liquid phase microextraction for determination of triazine herbicides in peanuts
Authors: Piao Huilan , Jiang Yanxiao , Li Xinpei , Ma Pinyi , Wang Xinghua , Song Daqian , Sun Ying
Published: April 2019

Two extraction procedures, matrix solid‐phase dispersion and hollow fiber liquid‐phase microextraction, were combined and applied to determine triazine herbicides in peanut samples. The results showed that the established method has high extraction efficiency and could greatly eliminate the interferences from complex matrix samples. A series of important experimental parameters were all investigated in detail. Under the optimal conditions, the developed method has the limits of detection for triazine herbicides in the range of 0.05 to 1.71 μg/kg. Moreover, it has the recovery in the range of 80.4–120.0% with relative standard deviations of equal or lower than 8.9%. The established method may have a great potential in separation, enrichment, and purification of triazines from complex fatty solid samples.
Technical solutions for the safe utilization of heavy metal‐contaminated farmland in China: A critical review
Authors: Li Xiaofang
Published: April 2019

China is suffering from farmland heavy metal pollution. Different strategies have been explored in the past decades to address the problem, mainly metal removal, substitute planting, and safe farming. Safe farming aims to produce metal‐safe food crops in heavy metal‐polluted farmland without purposefully removing the excess metals. Safe farming was intended to address the soil‐borne food heavy metal issue and has been advocated as a priority solution for farmland pollution by the government. Many conventional and novel technologies have been tested for safe farming in recent years. Although most reduced heavy metals in grains, none of the technologies alone were found to be sufficient in field practice to meet national food standards. The current best practice is recognized as the combination of several agronomic measures, including pollution‐safe cultivars, optimal water management, liming, and conventional metal immobilizers. Unfortunately, field trials have not achieved a robust technical framework effective for farmland with different soil properties and climatic conditions. We propose that a practical technical framework may be biotechnology centered with a minimal use of chemical immobilizers, particularly liming and phosphate minerals. Foliar sprays and microbial biosorbents seem promising for safe farming. A biotechnology‐centered framework may largely simplify the field practice of safe farming and is more acceptable to governments and farmers.
Gender and land degradation neutrality: A cross‐country analysis to support more equitable practices
Authors: Okpara Uche T. , Stringer Lindsay C. , Akhtar‐Schuster Mariam
Published: April 2019

Women and men have unequal opportunities to address land degradation. Although adoption of Sustainable Development Goal target 15.3 leads the world to “strive towards land degradation neutrality (LDN)” by 2030, gender concerns are sparsely considered in LDN programming to date. To achieve LDN in regions with deeply entrenched sociocultural norms requires gender responsiveness, accounting for the varied gender components of land degradation. This paper identifies innovative entry points for, and benefits of, integrating gender issues into LDN, as well as the risks of gender inaction. Assessment of the literature on the links between gender and land reveals land degradation is gendered and closely tied to gender biases in land rights, access to resources and incentives, opportunities to participate in decision making, and the distribution of costs/benefits of projects targeting land improvement. Analysis of selected LDN‐related projects shows that interventions seem to target gender biases by engaging: women's groups that are locally recognised as change agents in driving inclusiveness and gender specialists to coordinate gender mainstreaming activities. Entry points for gender‐responsive LDN are identified, including interventions that merge LDN gender plans with existing gender schemes at local and global levels, enable gender‐sensitive early warning systems, and narrow gender disparities and safeguard women's land rights through gender‐sensitive LDN financing mechanisms. Gender‐responsive LDN is one of several avenues to support growing international efforts to promote gender equality and female empowerment, alongside movement towards a future where more balanced relations ensure women and men can interact with and care for land in more equitable and nonhierarchical ways.
Optimal Biliary Drainage for Patients With Biliary Anastomotic Strictures After Right Lobe Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: You Min Su , Paik Woo Hyun , Choi Young Hoon , Shin Bang‐sup , Lee Sang Hyub , Ryu Ji Kon , Kim Yong‐Tae , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Lee Kwang‐Woong , Yi Nam‐Joon , Hong Suk Kyun
Published: April 2019

Right lobe (RL) living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) usually includes 2 bile duct anastomosis sites, namely, the right anterior and the right posterior segmental ducts. This study aimed to evaluate the optimal treatment for biliary strictures following RL LDLT with respect to unilateral or bilateral drainage techniques. From January 2005 to December 2017, 883 patients at Seoul National University Hospital underwent RL LDLT. Of these, 110 patients were enrolled who had 2 duct‐to‐duct anastomosis sites and who were considered at risk of developing biliary anastomotic strictures. Unilateral or bilateral biliary drainage during the follow‐up period was identified by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and/or percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD). The clinical success, complication, and 180‐day mortality rates were compared between the unilateral and bilateral biliary drainage groups according to the initial ERCP findings. The mean age at the time of LDLT was 54.2 ± 8.2 years. The median time from LDLT to initial biliary anastomotic strictures was 177 (interquartile range, 18‐1085) days. At the initial ERCP, unilateral drainage was performed in 55 (50.0%) patients, and bilateral drainage was performed in 11 (10.0%) patients. Of the patients who underwent unilateral drainage, 35 (63.6%) patients required conversion to bilateral drainage during follow‐up. Overall, 71 (64.5%) patients required bilateral drainage more than once, whereas only 27 (24.5%) patients reached a resolution with unilateral biliary drainage. In this study, most patients required bilateral biliary drainage more than once during follow‐up. An active attempt should be made to drain bilaterally in patients with biliary anastomotic strictures following RL LDLT.
Grape Seed Proanthocyanidins Target the Enteroendocrine System in Cafeteria‐Diet‐Fed Rats
Authors: Ginés Iris , Gil‐Cardoso Katherine , Terra Ximena , Blay MTeresa , Pérez‐Vendrell Anna Maria , Pinent Montserrat , Ardévol Anna
Published: April 2019

Scope

The effects on the enteroendocrine system of three different grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) treatments are analyzed in rats on a cafeteria diet for 17 weeks.

Methods and results

GSPE is administered in a corrective manner (15 last days of the cafeteria diet) at two doses, 100 and 500 mg GSPE per kg bw. A third, longer treatment in which GSPE (500 mg kg–1 bw) is administered daily every other week during the 17 weeks of the cafeteria diet is also tested. Most GSPE treatments lead to ghrelin accumulation in the stomach, limited CCK secretion in the duodenum, and increased GLP‐1 and PYY mRNA in colon. GSPE also increases cecal hypertrophy and reduces butyrate content. When the treatment is administered daily every other week during 17 weeks, there is also an increase in colon size. These effects are accompanied by a reduced food intake at the end of the experiment when GSPE is administered at 500 mg GSPE kg–1 during the last 15 days, but not on the other treatments, despite an observed reduction in body weight in the longer treatment.

Conclusion

GSPE modulates the enteroendocrine system in models in which it also reduces food intake or body weight.
Design of phase matching chessboard‐like electromagnetic metasurfaces for wideband radar cross section reduction
Authors: Chen Haiyan , Shen Rongbo , Li Fengxia , Zhou Yang , Zhang Li , Weng Xiaolong , Lu Haipeng , Xie Jianliang , Deng Longjiang
Published: April 2019

In this article, a chessboard‐like electromagnetic metasurfaces which can realize the polarization compensation and cancellation of the reflection beam in microwave region is designed and realized for wideband radar cross section (RCS) reduction. The chessboard‐like electromagnetic metasurfaces are composed of a square annular artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) combination with the Jerusalem cross AMC. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the chessboard‐like electromagnetic metasurfaces exhibit significantly RCS reduction over −10 dB in the frequency bandwidths 6.16‐18 GHz, and two RCS reduction peaks at 7.0 and 12.0 GHz in the considering frequency ranges for the normal incidence of an electromagnetic wave. The physical mechanisms of the RCS reduction peaks can be elucidated by the phase matching technology similar to the impedance matching technology applied to radar absorbing materials (RAMs). The basic physical property implies that RCS reduction based on the composite AMC metasurfaces can be improved greatly by introducing as many phase matching points as possible in the functional frequency bands. Considered that the phase matching is a necessary condition rather than a sufficient condition for RCS reduction of the chessboard‐like AMCs structures, other physical mechanisms of RCS reduction are also discussed by far field distribution, near field distribution and the properties of mono‐static RCS reduction.
Cherenkov‐excited luminescence scanned imaging using scanned beam differencing and iterative deconvolution in dynamic plan radiation delivery in a human breast phantom geometry
Authors: Jia Mengyu Jeremy , Bruza Petr , Andreozzi Jacqueline M. , Jarvis Lesley A. , Gladstone David J. , Pogue Brian W.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate high resolution optical luminescence sensing, referred to as Cherenkov excited luminescence scanning imaging (CELSI), could be achieved during a standard dynamic treatment plan for a whole breast radiotherapy geometry.

Methods

The treatment plan beams induce Cherenkov light within tissue, and this excitation projects through the beam trajectory across the medium, inducing luminescence where there can be molecular reporter. Broad beams generally produce higher signal but low spatial resolution, yet for dynamic plans the scanning of the multileaf collimator allows for a beam‐narrowing strategy by recursively temporal differencing each of the Cherenkov images and associated luminescence images. Then reconstruction from each of these size‐reduced beamlets defined by the differenced Cherenkov images provides a well‐conditioned matrix inversion, where the spatial frequencies are limited by the higher signal‐to‐noise ratio beamlets. A built‐in stepwise convergence relies on stepwise beam size reduction, which is associated with a widening of the bandwidth of Cherenkov spatial frequency and resultant increase in spatial resolution. For the phantom experiments, europium nanoparticles were used as luminescent probes and embedded at depths ranging from 3 to 8 mm. An intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plan was used to test this.

Results

The Cherenkov images spatially guided where the luminescence was measured from, providing high lateral resolution, and iterative reconstruction convergence showed that optimization of the initial and stopping beamlet widths could be achieved with 15 and 4.5 mm, respectively, using a luminescence imaging frame rate of 5/s. With the IMRT breast plan, the original lateral resolution was improved 2X, that is, 0.08–0.24 mm for target depths of 3–8 mm. In comparison, a dynamic wedge (DW) plan showed an inferior image fidelity, with relative contrast recovery decreasing from 0.86 to 0.79. The methodology was applied to a three‐dimensional dataset to reconstruct Cherenkov excited luminescence intensity distributions showing volumetric recovery of a 0.5 mm diameter object composed of 0.5 μM luminescent microbeads.

Conclusions

High resolution CELSI was achieved with a clinical breast external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) plan. It is anticipated that this method can allow visualization and localization for luminescence/fluorescence tagged vasculature, lymph nodes, or superficial tagged regions with most dynamic treatment plans.
Rapid Recolonization and Life History Responses of Bull Trout Following Dam Removal in Washington's Elwha River
Authors: Brenkman Samuel J. , Peters Roger J. , Tabor Roger A. , Geffre Joshua J. , Sutton Kathryn T.
Published: April 2019

Connected river systems confer advantages upon migratory salmonids by facilitating greater life history expression and, ultimately, population persistence. In Washington's Elwha River, two impassable, century-old hydroelectric dams were removed in the world's largest dam removal project. Dam removal restored access to 130 km of habitat and reconnected headwater, estuarine, and marine areas. We used multi-year radiotelemetry data to characterize migratory patterns of federally threatened Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus after dam removal. Bull Trout rapidly responded to barrier removal and were the first among the Pacific salmonids to move into the newly accessible headwaters. Spatial extent and mean distance traveled upriver increased annually, and adults reached the headwaters (64 km) within 3 years of dam removal. Telemetry data revealed that Bull Trout migrated between the river and its estuary (up to 168 km), and spawning migrations occurred in consecutive years. Relocations of Bull Trout in the tidal zone and the presence of bright, silvery colored adults were indicative of marine residence. Length at age of Bull Trout significantly increased after dam removal, and fish captured before and after dam removal were larger at similar ages in comparison with migratory populations throughout their range. We described the diet of Bull Trout captured in the river and estuary after dam removal. Bull Trout primarily consumed Pacific salmonids Oncorhynchus spp., Threespine Sticklebacks Gasterosteus aculeatus, and sculpins Cottus spp., and the prevalence of sculpins in their diet decreased from the estuary to upstream areas. As the length of Bull Trout increased, they progressively consumed larger prey items. In this historic dam removal project, Bull Trout were early and rapid recolonizers and displayed migrations throughout the reconnected river and its estuary. This study is among the first to evaluate Bull Trout responses to dam removal and establishes a baseline to assess future recovery of this threatened species in the Elwha River.
Field validation of water‐pipe leakage detection through spatial and time‐lapse analysis of GPR wave velocity
Authors: Cheung Bella Wei‐Yat , Lai Wallace Wai‐Lok
Published: April 2019

Detection of leakage in a buried water pipe is a crucial issue, as underground pipes become aged and these pipes are often used as pathways for aggressive chemical agents. Non‐destructive geophysical methods for identifying such underground leakages are of vital importance. Leakage detection in buried water pipes is sometimes carried out through specific acoustic methods. In this research, we have used ground‐penetrating radar as an alternative to such acoustic methods, because of the high sensitivity of electromagnetic waves to the presence of water in soil. This paper presents a methodology, illustrated by field‐scale ground‐penetrating radar experiments. Four water leakage points in a buried, ductile, iron, main‐water pipe were pre‐designed within a full‐scale (20 m long × 10 m wide) experimental set up. This facility was paved half by reinforced concrete and half by other pavement blocks. Four ground‐penetrating radar antennae with five nominal frequencies 200, 250, 400, 600 and 900 MHz were tested. Using a modified algorithm for common offset ground‐penetrating radar antennae, in this work, we measure the changes in electromagnetic wave velocity and wave reverberation, which sense upward and downward leakages, respectively. Leakages could be identified most clearly in the 600 MHz ground‐penetrating radar data. Our result suggests two potential applications in terms of detecting and defining the extent of multiple leakages in old water pipes, and testing and commissioning new pipes before and after pressurized tests.
Recyclable polyurethane/nanoclay films
Authors: Špírková Milena , Brožová Libuše , Hodan Jiří , Kredatusová Jana , Krejčíková Sabina , Zhigunov Alexander , Pavličević Jelena
Published: April 2019

A series of polyurethane (PU)/clay nanocomposite films was prepared by adding natural bentonite Cloisite® Na+ powders to waterborne polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) followed by a slow water evaporation; the nanoclay content in the films varied from 0 to 5 wt%. The functional properties of materials with low nanoclay loading (up to 1 wt%) resemble features of films prepared without any nanoclay. Compared to unfilled PU, the films with 3 and 5 wt% nanoclay concentrations exhibited slightly deteriorated properties. This phenomenon can be caused by the fact that the polymer–filler interactions are negligible. Gas transport properties are the exception: nanoclay was found to be an efficient barrier component for the permeability of industrially important gases (O2, N2, H2, CO2, and CH4). All films feature thermoplastic characteristics and thermal stabilities up to at least 200°C. Because PUDs are solely composed of linear chains, the possibility of preparing recyclable materials was tested. While PU can be re‐used after dissolving in acetone and re‐dispersing in water, the re‐use of nanoclay is not recommended. Preliminary accelerated in vivo tests performed in 20% H2O2 and 0.1M CoCl2 at 37°C detected substantial susceptibility to biodegradation, especially for films containing 5 wt% nanoclay. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:4079–4092, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and properties of aluminum phosphate‐polyethersulfone laminated composites modified by aluminosilicate fiber fabric
Authors: Yan Shicheng , Xue Yahong , Wang Shoujun
Published: April 2019

In the present work, aluminum phosphate‐polyethersulfone (AlPO4‐PES) laminated composites with three different reinforcement materials, including aluminosilicate fiber (AF), aluminosilicate fiber paper (AFP), and aluminosilicate fiber fabric (AFF), were successfully fabricated by the means of solution blending method and vacuum hot‐pressing forming process. The surface morphologies, interfacial microstructures as well as thermal, mechanical, and dielectric properties of the as‐prepared composites were researched. The results indicate that both the thermal stability and mechanical properties of AlPO4‐PES laminated composites are apparently enhanced by introducing AF, AFP, and AFF into AlPO4thermal resistant layer. In contrast with AF/AlPO4‐PES and AFP/AlPO4‐PES, the AlPO4‐PES composite containing 10.0 wt% AFF shows higher flexural and compressive properties (187.4 MPa, 4.98 GPa, and 193.7 MPa), together with better thermal insulation performance (0.21 W/[m·K]). Of all PES‐matrix laminated composites, the AFF/AlPO4‐PES composite also exhibits the outstanding dielectric properties (ε= 1.96, tanδ= 0.008) at high frequency of 5 MHz. Besides, the 10.0 wt% AFF/AlPO4‐PES composite not only owns the weak frequency dependence of dielectric constant and dielectric loss within the range of 102H to 5 MHz but also exhibits favorable temperature stability of dielectric properties over a wide temperature scope of 25–120°C. This can be ascribed to the excellent dielectric performances of AFF as well as the good interface bonding property of AFF/AlPO4layer and PES matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:4102–4112, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Potential clinical benefits and limitations of fetal virtopsy using high‐field MRI at 7 Tesla versus stereomicroscopic autopsy to assess first trimester fetuses
Authors: Staicu Adelina , Albu Camelia , Popa‐Stanila Roxana , Chiriac Liviu , Boitor‐Borza Dan , Bondor Cosmina , Kovacs Tunde , Caracostea Gabriela , Rotar Ioana Cristina , Turcu R.V. Flaviu , Simon Simion , Muresan Daniel , Stamatian Florin
Published: April 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to establish the diagnostic accuracy of high‐field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 7 Tesla (T) compared with that of stereomicroscopic autopsy for assessing first trimester fetuses.

Methods

Nine consecutive cases of first trimester fetuses resulting from spontaneous and therapeutic pregnancy termination were considered. The cases were divided into two groups according to gestational age: the Embryo Group with cases of nine to 10 gestational weeks (GWs) and the Fetus Group with cases of 13 GWs. The first group was scanned using three‐dimensional fast imaging with steady state precession (3D FISP), and the second group was scanned using a two‐dimensional (2D) turbo spin‐echo high‐resolution T2‐weighted imaging (T2 WI) protocol. A radiologist and two embryologists interpreted the images. All cases were evaluated by invasive autopsy, with pathologist blinded to the imaging results. In total, the database included 270 items for evaluation (9 cases × 30 structures/case).

Results

The global agreement between fetal high‐field virtopsy and microscopic or stereomicroscopic autopsy was evaluated using 225 evaluation items visible by both methods. Overall, using microscopic examination and stereomicroscopic autopsy as the gold standard, fetal high‐field virtopsy had a sensitivity of 94.6% [95% CI, 87.2‐98.3] and a specificity of 97.6% [95% CI, 95‐98.8]. The positive predictive value (PPV) was 93% [95% CI, 85.7‐96.6], and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 98.2% [95% CI, 95.7‐99.4]. Cohen kappa coefficient of agreement was k = 0.92 [95% CI, 0.82‐0.97], and the McNemar test showed p = 1.00.

Conclusions

Virtual autopsy using high‐field MRI at 7 T can be considered a safe alternative approach to stereomicroscopic autopsy for the assessment of fetal structural anomalies at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy.