bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Potential of Chiral Amide Derivatives of Ricinoleic and 3‐Hydroxynonanoic Acid
Authors: Matysiak Sylwia , Zabielska Julia , Kula Józef , Kunicka‐Styczyńska Alina
Published: October 2019

The growing role of fatty acid amides in medicinal chemistry has recently been observed. Therefore, using simple and fast methods, a series of chiral amide derivatives (24 compounds) of ricinoleic and 3‐hydroxynonanoic acid was obtained with 31–95% yields. Then, the evaluation of their antimicrobial activity against 13 microorganisms representing Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, yeast, and molds was performed. The obtained compounds showed antimold potential; however, the tested species of molds were more susceptible to derivatives of 3‐hydroxynonanoic acid than to amides obtained from ricinoleic acid (RA). Interestingly, hydroxamic acids derived from RA exhibited the best activity against Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. On the other hand, hydroxamic acids derived from 3‐hydroxynonanoic acid showed the best antimicrobial potential against the remaining tested microorganisms, especially against Pseudomonas cedrina. The obtained derivatives can be considered compounds of potential pharmacological significance, which is important due to the increasing problem of microbial resistance.
Beyond mean rating: Probabilistic aggregation of star ratings based on helpfulness
Authors: Tay Wenyi , Zhang Xiuzhen , Karimi Sarvnaz
Published: October 2019

The star‐rating mechanism of customer reviews is used universally by the online population to compare and select merchants, movies, products, and services. The consensus opinion from aggregation of star ratings is used as a proxy for item quality. Online reviews are noisy and effective aggregation of star ratings to accurately reflect the “true quality” of products and services is challenging. The mean‐rating aggregation model is widely used and other aggregation models are also proposed. These existing aggregation models rely on a large number of reviews to tolerate noise. However, many products rarely have reviews. We propose probabilistic aggregation models for review ratings based on the Dirichlet distribution to combat data sparsity in reviews. We further propose to exploit the “helpfulness” social information and time to filter noisy reviews and effectively aggregate ratings to compute the consensus opinion. Our experiments on an Amazon data set show that our probabilistic aggregation models based on “helpfulness” achieve better performance than the statistical and heuristic baseline approaches.
Persistent Pockets of Low Chlorine Residual in New York City's Drinking Water Distribution System: A Case Study
Authors: Savane Ousmane Sy , Khan Eakalak , Freud Salome , Murphy Amy , Tesfargiogis Kibre , Murray Virginia
Published: October 2019

Key Takeaways

Pockets of low chlorine residual have been found in New York City's water distribution system, with fluctuating water demand resulting from the seasonal operation of local institutions.

Variations of the chlorine residual profiles in one such pocket were found through both field and laboratory investigations.

Once the cast‐iron pipe was replaced with ductile‐iron pipe in the study area, an acceptable chlorine residual was usually maintained; when low chlorine residuals were observed, low‐velocity flushing remediated the situation.
Ferulic acid attenuates arsenic‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Panneerselvam Lakshmikanthan , Raghunath Azhwar , Ravi Manoj Srinivas , Vetrivel Amuthan , Subramaniam Vinothini , Sundarraj Kiruthika , Perumal Ekambaram
Published: October 2019

Arsenic (As), a potent environmental toxin, causes cardiac functional impairments. Ferulic acid (FA), a ubiquitous dietary hydroxycinnamate, exerts beneficial effects on human health. Hence, the present study investigated the effect of FA on myocardial oxidative stress parameters, ATP level, the status of cardiac cytoskeleton intermediate filaments—desmin and vimentin, and AMPK signaling proteins in As‐intoxicated rats. Wistar rats were administered orally with FA‐40 mg/kg and As‐5 mg/kg alone and in combination for 30 days. Myocardial As content, serum cardiac marker enzyme activities including creatine kinase‐isoenzyme, lactate dehydrogenase, and aspartate aminotransferase were increased in As‐exposed rats. An accumulation of myocardial oxidants such as reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide, protein carbonyl content, and histological aberrations was observed. A significant decrease of myocardial antioxidants comprises superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione, and ascorbic acid and declined expression of desmin and vimentin was noted. Impaired energy signaling molecules AMPKα (Thr172), AMPKβ1/2 (Ser108), ACC (Ser79), and intracellular myocardial ATP depletion were observed in As‐intoxicated animals. FA attenuates As‐induced cardiac dysfunction by restoring the expression of intermediate filaments and AMPK proteins. Based on the above findings, FA treatment could be used as a novel therapeutic against As‐induced cardiac dysfunction.
Electrochemical Reactors for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Muddemann Thorben , Haupt Dennis , Sievers Michael , Kunz Ulrich
Published: October 2019

Regarding the treatment of (waste)water, electrochemical processes have various advantages over other methods. They are robust, easy to operate and flexible in case of fluctuating wastewater streams. In addition, a relatively broad spectrum of organic and inorganic impurities can be removed. This contribution provides an overview of electrochemical reactors for water, process water, and wastewater treatment, which are already in technical‐scale operation or subject of research. Some essential basics of electrochemical processes for the treatment of water are presented and examples for applications are given. This is followed by a description of the reactors.
Previously diagnosed cancer and mortality after ST‐segment elevation acute myocardial infarction treated with primary angioplasty
Authors: Iglesias‐Garriz Ignacio , Delgado Irene , Prieto‐Salvador Iván , Garrote Carmen , García‐Palomo Andrés , Fernández‐Vazquez Felipe
Published: October 2019

Objective

We investigated if a previous cancer diagnosis influences the outcome of patients with STEMI treated with primary coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

ST‐segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) and a history of cancer can coexist because both have a high incidence and prevalence.

Methods

Prospective cohort observational study, The primary end‐point was total mortality.

Results

We included 917 patients, 53 of them (5.8%) were cancer survivors. During follow‐up (median, 643 days [interquartile range, 258 to 1,015 days]), 100 patients died, 88 (10.2%) patients without a cancer diagnosis and 12 (22.6%) patients with a previous cancer diagnosis, which was significantly different (log‐rank test = 8.4, p = .004). Cancer patients were older (73.4 (11.5) vs. 65.2 (13.8) years, p < .001), with a lower prevalence of previous stroke (1.1% vs. 2.2%, p = .002). Their hemoglobin concentration was also lower (13.4 (2.1) vs. 14.4 (1.7) g/L, p = .001). A trend towards a lower use of coronary stents in cancer survivors was noted (p = .061). Cancer was associated with a high probability of death (HR = 2.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30–4.34, p = .005). When confounding variables were included, this association was no longer significant (HR = 1.63, 95% CI 0.84–3.18, p = .150).

Conclusions

Patients with a previous cancer diagnosis who had an acute STEMI treated by primary PCI did not seem to have a worse prognosis. The difference in the crude mortality rate can be explained by the baseline differences between both groups. Previous cancer diagnosis should not be included in the clinical decision process when a patient is having an acute STEMI.
Pulmonary hemorrhage in children with Alagille syndrome undergoing cardiac catheterization
Authors: Adamson Gregory T. , Peng Lynn F. , Feinstein Jeffrey A. , Yarlagadda Vamsi V. , Lin Amy , Wise‐Faberowski Lisa , McElhinney Doff B.
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the incidence, severity, and outcomes of pulmonary hemorrhage in children with Alagille syndrome (AGS) undergoing cardiac catheterization, and to find variables associated with hemorrhage in this population.

Background

Children with AGS have a high incidence of bleeding complications during invasive procedures. It has been our impression that catheterization‐associated pulmonary hemorrhage is more common in children with AGS, but there are no published data on this topic.

Methods

This was a retrospective single institution study of children with AGS undergoing catheterization from 2010 to 2018. Pulmonary hemorrhage was defined as angiographic or fluoroscopic evidence of extravasated blood in the lung parenchyma, or blood suctioned from the endotracheal tube with documentation of pulmonary hemorrhage by the anesthesiologist or intensivist. Univariate comparisons were made between catheterizations that did and did not have pulmonary hemorrhage.

Results

Thirty children with AGS underwent 87 catheterizations, 32 (37%) with interventions on the branch pulmonary arteries (PA). There were 26 (30%) procedures with hemorrhage, the majority (65%) of which were self‐limited or required less than 24 hr of mechanical ventilation. Moderate and severe hemorrhage occurred only in children with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF; 5 of 14, 36%). A higher right ventricle to aorta systolic pressure ratio (1.0 [0.85–1.1] vs. 0.88 [0.59–1.0], p = .029) and interventions on the branch PAs (14 of 26, 54% vs. 18 of 61, 30%, p = .032) were associated with hemorrhage.

Conclusions

Pulmonary hemorrhage was common in children with AGS undergoing both intervention and diagnostic cardiac catheterization, and was associated with TOF, higher RV to aorta pressure ratio, and interventions on the branch PAs.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor of nasal cavity and paranasal sinus with 13 years of follow‐up—A case report and review of literature
Authors: Vengaloor Thomas Toms , Abraham Anu , Bhanat Eldrin , Al Hmada Youssef , Albert Ashley , Vijayakumar Srinivasan , Stinger Scott P. , Packianathan Satyaseelan
Published: October 2019

Although extremely rare, sarcomas including malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sino‐nasal tract lesions. Long‐term cure is possible through definitive operative management followed by adjuvant therapy.
Reductive Amidation without an External Hydrogen Source Using Rhodium on Carbon Matrix as a Catalyst
Authors: Tsygankov Alexey A. , Makarova Maria , Afanasyev Oleg I. , Kashin Alexey S. , Naumkin Alexander V. , Loginov Dmitry A. , Chusov Denis
Published: October 2019

An efficient method for preparation of secondary amides from primary amides and aldehydes using rhodium on carbon matrix as catalyst was developed. The method does not require any external hydrogen source and carbon monoxide is used as a reducing agent. The most active rhodium catalysts were characterized by BET, TEM and XPS techniques. Unexpectedly, it was found that heterogeneous rhodium on carbon matrix works as precatalyst for homogenous active species due to leaching of rhodium to the solution. Various secondary amides were synthesized and checked for antifungal activity. 4‐Methoxy‐N‐(4‐methoxybenzyl)benzamide demonstrated promising activity against Rhizoctonia Solani.
Multicomponent Tandem Polymerization of Aromatic Alkynes, Carbonyl Chloride, and Fischer's Base toward Poly(diene merocyanine)s
Authors: Tang Xiaojuan , Zhang Lihui , Hu Rongrong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

Multicomponent polymerization (MCP) is a popular tool to construct polymers with diverse structure, simple operation, and high efficiency, which faces the challenges of limited product structures. Multicomponent tandem polymerization (MCTP), combining two or multiple reactions in a one‐pot fashion, could expand the scope of MCP and enrich the polymer structures. Herein, a one‐pot three‐component tandem polymerization of diynes, carbonyl chloride, and Fischer's base has been developed to afford conjugated poly(diene merocyanine)s with mild condition, satisfactory molecular weights (Mw up to 10900 g/mol) and yields (up to 81%). The polymers enjoy good solubility and high thermal stability. The unique emission behavior of the model compound and polymer show that they are aggregation‐induced emission (AIE)‐active, suggesting that the diene merocyanine moiety is a potential AIEgen. This MCTP shows great potential in the preparation of functional polymer materials, which could build new AIE functional units directly from the polymerization, demonstrating its synthetic simplicity and elegance.
Site‐specific response patterns, pseudoprogression, and acquired resistance in patients with melanoma treated with ipilimumab combined with anti–PD‐1 therapy
Authors: Pires da Silva Ines , Lo Serigne , Quek Camelia , Gonzalez Maria , Carlino Matteo S. , Long Georgina V. , Menzies Alexander M.
Published: October 2019

Background

Patients with metastatic melanoma have variable responses to combination ipilimumab and nivolumab. The objectives of this study were to examine the patterns of response and survival in patients treated with combination ipilimumab and anti–PD‐1 therapy (IPI + PD1) and to explore the nature of pseudoprogression and acquired resistance.

Methods

Patients with metastatic melanoma who received treatment with first‐line IPI + PD1 had all metastases ≥5 mm measured on computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging studies. The lesional response rate (LRR) and the overall response rate (ORR) were determined according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1.

Results

In total, 140 patients who had 833 metastases were studied. The ORR and the overall complete response (CR) rate decreased as tumor burden or the number of metastases increased. Metastases that had a CR (49%) were smaller than metastases without a CR (median, 13 vs 17 mm; P < .0001). Soft‐tissue and lung metastases had the highest LRR (79% and 77%, respectively), whereas liver metastases had the lowest (46%). In multivariate analysis, patients with lung metastases had superior ORR (odds ratio [OR], 2.75; P = .02) and progression‐free survival (hazard ratio [HR], 0.46; P = .02), whereas those with liver metastases had inferior ORR (OR, 0.33; P = .02), progression‐free survival (HR, 4.03; P < .01), and overall survival (HR, 3.17; P = .01). Pseudoprogression occurred in one‐third of patients who had progressive disease as their best response, with an overall survival that was comparable to that of patients without disease progression. Acquired resistance occurred in 12% of responders after a median of 9.6 months, with an overall survival rate of 83% at 1 year from progression.

Conclusions

Metastases in different anatomical locations display distinct response patterns and also are associated with overall response and survival with combination immunotherapy. Specific sites of disease may hold unique mechanisms of resistance and should allow for more personalized treatment.
PAMPAR: A new parallel benchmark for performance and energy consumption evaluation
Authors: Marques Garcia Adriano , Schepke Claudio , Girardi Alessandro
Published: October 2019

This paper presents PAMPAR, a new benchmark to evaluate the performance and energy consumption of different Parallel Programming Interfaces (PPIs). The benchmark is composed of 11 algorithms implemented in PThreads, OpenMP, MPI‐1, and MPI‐2 (spawn) PPIs. Previous studies have used some of these pseudo‐applications to perform this type of evaluation in different architectures since there is no benchmark that offers this variety of PPIs and communication models. In this work, we measure the energy and performance of each pseudo‐application in a single architecture, varying the number of threads/processes. We also organize the pseudo‐applications according to their memory accesses, floating‐point operations, and branches. The goal is to show that this set of pseudo‐applications has enough features to build a parallel benchmark. The results show that there is no single best case that provides both better performance and low energy consumption in the presented scenarios. Moreover, the pseudo‐applications usage of the system resources are different enough to represent different scenarios and be efficient as a benchmark.
CT image reconstruction algorithms: A comprehensive survey
Authors: Zhang Shu , Xia Youshen
Published: October 2019

With the application of computed tomography (CT) technology to the clinic diagnosis and image‐guided surgeries, various CT image reconstruction algorithms were presented for enhancing CT image quality based on different dose acquisitions. For wide and effective uses, this paper is going to provide a comprehensive survey on representative CT image reconstruction algorithms, in the light of low‐dose and high‐dose acquisitions and algorithm performance, including their merits and limitations. The algorithm performance and complexity are discussed under Gaussian and Poisson noise environments, respectively. Finally, experimental results analyze the efficiency and performance of several popular CT image reconstruction algorithms in terms of computation time and accuracy.
A simulated parameter optimization method–based manifold learning for a production process
Authors: Xu Gang , Dong Qianqian , Li Min
Published: October 2019

A production process parameter optimization method based on feature extraction for manifold learning is proposed to achieve precise optimization of steel anomaly data of different grades in the same series and to improve the quality of industrial products. First, the appropriate neighboring samples are found in the state of the sample point and the next state to form the neighborhood matrix. Then, the manifold hidden inside the data is extracted, ie, the evolution trend of the process parameters between different brands. At the same time, a monitoring model is built with the training data based on the support vector data description (SVDD). If an outlier is detected, it will be projected onto the manifold to obtain the adjustment values. Thus, the outlier can return to the normal state. The Swiss roll and actual production data of interstitial‐free (IF) steels are employed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results show that the new method considers the continuity of process parameters of different product grades in the production process and uses data to extract the potential manifold, ie, using the evolution trend of process parameters among different product grades to achieve the optimization of the process parameter. The proposed method provides a new process parameter optimization method for the actual production process.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Cleavage of C−O Linkage for Lignin Valorization to Functionalized Aromatics
Authors: Lin Jinchi , Wu Xuejiao , Xie Shunji , Chen Liangyi , Zhang Qinghong , Deng Weiping , Wang Ye
Published: October 2019

Lignin is the most abundant source of renewable aromatics. Catalytic valorization of lignin into functionalized aromatics is attractive but challenging. Photocatalysis is a promising sustainable approach. The strategies for designing well‐performing photocatalysts are desired but remain limited. Herein, a facile energy band engineering strategy for promoting the photocatalytic activity of zinc–indium–sulfide (ZnmIn2Sm+3) for cleavage of the lignol β‐O‐4 bond under mild conditions was developed. The energy band structure of ZnmIn2Sm+3 could be tuned by controlling the atomic ratio of Zn/In. It was found that Zn4In2S7 performed best for cleavage of the β‐O‐4 bond under visible‐light irradiation, owing to its appropriate energy band structure for offering adequate visible‐light absorption and suitable redox capability. Functionalized aromatic monomers with near 18.4 wt % yield could be obtained from organosolv birch lignin. Mechanistic studies revealed that the β‐O‐4 bond was efficiently cleaved mainly through a one‐step redox‐neutral pathway via a Cα radical intermediate. The thiol groups on the surface of Zn4In2S7 played a key role in cleavage of the β‐O‐4 bond.
Familiarize yourself with budgeting best practices for success
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: October 2019

When much of your career has focused on research and teaching, the administrative duties you're now responsible for can feel as foreign as a new language — especially the budgeting process.
Clarity is key to a successful organization
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: October 2019

Have you ever done exactly what you thought your boss wanted only to find out you did it wrong or didn't do what she wanted? Most likely, it was because of a lack of clarity between you and your boss.
Know how to manage office controversies
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: October 2019

“They don't teach us in grad school what to do when embroiled in a controversy or litigation,” said Jason A. Laker, Ph.D., Professor in the Department of Counselor Education at San Jose State University, where he previously served as VP of Student Affairs. “My story is one of a whistleblower. There will be times in the course of your work that you will witness something you weren't looking for necessarily, and you have some decisions to make,” he said.
Motor inactivity in hibernating frogs: Linking plasticity that stabilizes neuronal function to behavior in the natural environment
Authors: Santin Joseph M.
Published: October 2019

All animals must generate reliable neuronal activity to produce adaptive behaviors in an ever‐changing environment. Neural systems are thought to achieve this goal, in part, through cellular and synaptic plasticity mechanisms that stabilize electrophysiological functions. Despite strong evidence for a role in regulating neuronal properties, these plasticity mechanisms have been difficult to link to natural behaviors in animals. In this review, I discuss how animals that inhabit extreme environments can address this challenge. As an example, I highlight recent work from frogs that stop breathing for several months during hibernation and, in response, use classic mechanisms of stabilizing plasticity to support respiratory motor output shortly after emergence. Furthermore, I describe problems for neuronal stability that may benefit from the study of hibernators: how circuits with variable modes of output control stabilizing mechanisms over long time scales and why some neural systems mount robust compensatory responses and others do not. By continuing to appreciate how diverse animal groups overcome challenges in the natural environment, we will broaden our view of the role that plasticity mechanisms play in stabilizing the nervous system.
Task‐switching inefficiencies in currently ill, but not remitted anorexia nervosa
Authors: Berner Laura A. , Romero Emily M. , Reilly Erin E. , Lavender Jason M. , Kaye Walter H. , Wierenga Christina E.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Models of anorexia nervosa (AN) posit that set‐shifting deficits may contribute to behavioral inflexibility and extreme dietary restriction. Findings from neurocognitive studies of set‐shifting in AN have been somewhat mixed, perhaps due to the use of tasks that cannot distinguish shifting from other processes (i.e., learning). To more precisely characterize cognitive flexibility and selectively assess this process independent of rule learning and feedback sensitivity, we examined task‐switching ability in AN.

Method

Women ill with AN, subthreshold AN or atypical AN (IAN; n = 40), women remitted from AN (RAN; n = 24), and age‐matched healthy control women (n = 42) completed a computerized cued color‐shape task‐switching paradigm. Groups were compared on mix costs (reflecting global cognitive control) and switch costs (reflecting transient cognitive control).

Results

Although mix costs were equivalent across groups, switch costs were more pronounced in the IAN group, as indicated by a group‐by‐trial type interaction for reaction times on stay and switch trials.

Discussion

Findings indicate that IAN, but not RAN, have difficulty flexibly switching between cognitive task sets, and suggest that prior findings of set‐shifting deficits in AN may reflect difficulty with cognitive flexibility independent of learning deficits. As such, task‐switching may represent a promising adjunctive treatment target.
Precipitation and nitrogen addition enhance biomass allocation to aboveground in an alpine steppe
Authors: Li Changbin , Zheng Zhi , Peng Yunfeng , Nie Xiuqing , Yang Lucun , Xiao Yuanming , Zhou Guoying
Published: October 2019

There are two important allocation hypotheses in plant biomass allocation: allometric and isometric. We tested these two hypotheses in an alpine steppe using plant biomass allocation under nitrogen (N) addition and precipitation (Precip) changes at a community level. An in situ field manipulation experiment was conducted to examine the two hypotheses and the responses of the biomass to N addition (10 g N m−2 y−1) and altered Precip (±50% precipitation) in an alpine steppe on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau from 2013 to 2016. We found that the plant community biomass differed in its response to N addition and reduced Precip such that N addition significantly increased aboveground biomass (AGB), while reduced Precip significantly decreased AGB from 2014 to 2016. Moreover, reduced Precip enhanced deep soil belowground biomass (BGB). In the natural alpine steppe, the allocation between AGB and BGB was consistent with the isometric hypotheses. In contrast, N addition or altered Precip enhanced biomass allocation to aboveground, thus leading to allometric growth. More importantly, reduced Precip enhanced biomass allocation into deep soil. Our study provides insight into the responses of alpine steppes to global climate change by linking AGB and BGB allocation.
Production of Trans‐free fats by chemical interesterified blends of palm stearin and sunflower oil
Authors: Farajzadeh Alan Davood , Naeli Mohammad Hossein , Naderi Mehdi , Jafari Seid Mahdi , Tavakoli Hamid Reza
Published: October 2019

In this study, production of trans‐free fats through chemical interesterification of binary blends of palm stearin (PS) and sunflower oil (SFO) and their physicochemical changes after the process was investigated. Analyzed responses included fatty acid and triacylglycerol composition, iodine value, free fatty acid (FFA), soap content, peroxide value (PV), plastic range, slip melting point (SMP), solid fat content (SFC), and oxidative stability along with potential applications of the interesterified fats. Transfatty acid content of PS/SFO blends was lower than 0.36%. Chemical interesterification increased the FFA and soap content and also decreased PV and oxidative stability index (at 110°C). After the process, SMP and SFC were reduced, also the plastic range transferred to the lower temperatures. All the interesterified blends melted completely at the body temperature, and their SFC was <32%. The melting characteristics of the PS/SFO‐interesterified blends were suitable for many fat‐based products.
Menopausal hormone therapy treatment options and ovarian cancer risk: A Swedish prospective population‐based matched‐cohort study
Authors: Simin Johanna , Tamimi Rulla M. , Callens Steven , Engstrand Lars , Brusselaers Nele
Published: October 2019

Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) seemingly increases the risk of ovarian cancer, evidence is insufficient whether the risk varies between various MHT formulations, regimens and administration modes. With the aim of filling these knowledge gaps, we investigated the effect of different MHT treatment options on the risk of ovarian cancer. This prospective Swedish population‐based matched‐cohort study included all women ≥40 years having used systemic MHT between 2005 and 2012 (288,950 ever‐users), group‐level matched (1:3) to 866,546 nonusers. MHT use was ascertained from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Registry and data was linked to several national health data registries. Multivariable conditional logistic regression provided odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted for parity, and comorbidities. Current EP‐MHT use was associated with a modestly increased risk of ovarian cancer (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.18–1.62), while no consistent risk was found among past users (OR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.84–1.18). Current continuous testosterone derived (OR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.15–1.96) regimens increased the risk whereas progesterone derived (OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.00–2.21) regimens increased the risk marginally. Nonsignificant positive associations were observed for sequential regimens (OR = 1.87, 95% CI 0.70–5.08; OR = 1.54, 95% CI 0.96–2.47, respectively). An inverse relationship was observed for all E‐MHT use (OR = 0.25, 95% CI 0.22–0.29), but this association might partly be explained by underreporting of oophorectomies or tubal ligations. Current cutaneous EP‐MHT (OR = 1.28, 95% CI 0.81–2.02) suggested a possibly lower risk than oral MHT (OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.25–1.75). In conclusion EP‐MHT, notably continuous regimens, were associated with a modestly increased risk of ovarian cancer. The role of E‐MHT requires further clarification.
A novel, safe, fast and efficient treatment for Her2‐positive and negative bladder cancer utilizing an EGF‐anthrax toxin chimera
Authors: Jack Sherwin , Madhivanan Kayalvizhi , Ramadesikan Swetha , Subramanian Sneha , Edwards Daniel F. , Elzey Bennett D. , Dhawan Deepika , McCluskey Andrew , Kischuk Erin M. , Loftis Alexander R. , Truex Nicholas , Santos Michael , Lu Mike , Rabideau Amy , Pentelute Bradley , Collier John , Kaimakliotis Hristos , Koch Michael , Ratliff Timothy L. , Knapp Deborah W. , Aguilar Ruben C.
Published: October 2019

Bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States, and it exhibits an alarming 70% recurrence rate. Thus, the development of more efficient antibladder cancer approaches is a high priority. Accordingly, this work provides the basis for a transformative anticancer strategy that takes advantage of the unique characteristics of the bladder. Unlike mucin‐shielded normal bladder cells, cancer cells are exposed to the bladder lumen and overexpress EGFR. Therefore, we used an EGF‐conjugated anthrax toxin that after targeting EGFR was internalized and triggered apoptosis in exposed bladder cancer cells. This unique agent presented advantages over other EGF‐based technologies and other toxin‐derivatives. In contrast to known agents, this EGF‐toxin conjugate promoted its own uptake via receptor microclustering even in the presence of Her2 and induced cell death with a LC50 < 1 nM. Furthermore, our data showed that exposures as short as ≈3 min were enough to commit human (T24), mouse (MB49) and canine (primary) bladder cancer cells to apoptosis. Exposure of tumor‐free mice and dogs with the agent resulted in no toxicity. In addition, the EGF‐toxin was able to eliminate cells from human patient tumor samples. Importantly, the administration of EGF‐toxin to dogs with spontaneous bladder cancer, who had failed or were not eligible for other therapies, resulted in ~30% average tumor reduction after one treatment cycle. Because of its in vitro and in vivo high efficiency, fast action (reducing treatment time from hours to minutes) and safety, we propose that this EGF–anthrax toxin conjugate provides the basis for new, transformative approaches against bladder cancer.
In vitro and in vivo osteogenic potential of niobium‐doped 45S5 bioactive glass: A comparative study
Authors: Lopes João H. , Souza Lucas P. , Domingues Juliana A. , Ferreira Filipe V. , de Alencar Hausen Moema , Camilli José A. , Martin Richard A. , de Rezende Duek Eliana A. , Mazali Italo O. , Bertran Celso A.
Published: October 2019

In vitro and in vivo experiments were undertaken to evaluate the solubility, apatite‐forming ability, cytocompatibility, osteostimulation, and osteoinduction for a series of Nb‐containing bioactive glass (BGNb) derived from composition of 45S5 Bioglass. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES) revealed that the rate at which Na, Ca, Si, P, and Nb species are leached from the glass decrease with the increasing concentration of the niobium oxide. The formation of apatite as a function of time in simulated body fluid was monitored by 31P Magic Angle Spinning (MAS) Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Results showed that the bioactive glasses: Bioglass 45S5 (BG45S5) and 1 mol%‐Nb‐containing‐bioactive glass (BGSN1) were able to grow apatite layer on their surfaces within 3 h, while glasses with higher concentrations of Nb2O5 (2.5 and 5 mol%) took at least 12 h. Nb‐substituted glasses were shown to be compatible with bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs). Moreover, the bioactive glass with 1 mol% Nb2O5 significantly enhanced cell proliferation after 4 days of treatment. Concentrations of 1 and 2.5 mol% Nb2O5 stimulated osteogenic differentiation of BMMSCs after 21 days of treatment. For the in vivo experiments, trial glass rods were implanted into circular defects in rat tibia in order to evaluate their osteoconductivity and osteostimulation. Two morphometric parameters were analyzed: (a) thickness of new‐formed bone layer and (b) area of new‐formed subperiostal bone. Results showed that BGNb bioactive glass is osteoconductive and osteostimulative. Therefore, these results indicate that Nb‐substituted glass is suitable for biomedical applications.
Assessment of the Hemodynamics of Autogenous Arteriovenous Fistulas With 4D Phase Contrast‐Based Flow Quantification MRI in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Suqin Li , Mingli Zhu , Shiteng Suo , Honglan Mi , Lan Zhang , Qihong Ni , Qing Lu
Published: October 2019

Background

Regular monitoring of autogenous arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for hemodialysis patients has importance. Hence, 4D flow MRI may be an alternative for assessing the hemodynamics of AVFs.

Purpose

To compare the hemodynamics of AVFs using Doppler ultrasound (DUS) and 4D‐MRI in renal dialysis patients.

Study Type

Case–control study from October 2017 to April 2018.

Population

Fifty patients (age [range] = 59.52 [39–71] years) with AVFs were included.

Field Strength/Sequence

Black‐blood MRI and 4D flow MRI at 3.0T and AVF ultrasonography were also performed.

Assessment

The hemodynamics acquired from 4D flow MRI and ultrasonography by two radiologists were compared. The AVF anatomy was described through an examination of the black‐blood MRI.

Statistical Tests

The consistency of AVF anatomy and hemodynamics and the consistency of the hemodynamics of AVFs from 4D flow MRI and ultrasound were analyzed by paired t‐tests. The morphological parameters of AVFs acquired from black‐blood MRI were used for a Pearson correlation analysis with the hemodynamic parameters obtained from 4D flow MRI data.

Results

The consistency of the morphological and hemodynamic parameters measured from MRI by the two radiologists was good (all P < 0.01). The velocities and flow volumes from the 4D flow MRI and vascular ultrasound of AVFs were in moderate agreement (all P < 0.05, r = 0.292–0.569), except for the peak flow velocity at the anastomosis (P = 0.366, r = –0.078). The flow volume and WSS near the anastomotic site were closely related to the morphology of the AVFs (all P < 0.05). The hemodynamics of the complications group were significantly different from those of patients without any complications (normal patients group) (all P < 0.01).

Data Conclusion

Compared with ultrasonography, 4D flow MRI is a promising technique to noninvasively estimate the AVF hemodynamics of renal dialysis patients.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1272–1280.
Establishment and application of a 10‐plex liquid bead array for the simultaneous rapid detection of animal species
Authors: Mei Mingzhu , Chen Ru , Gao Xiaobo , Cao Yongchang , Weng Wenchuan , Duan Yanyu , Tan Xin , Liu Zhiling
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Meat fraud and adulteration incidents occur frequently in almost all regions of the globe, especially with the increase in the world's population. To ensure the authenticity of meat products, we developed a 10‐plex xMAP assay to simultaneously detect ten animal materials: bovine, caprine, poultry, swine, donkey, deer, horse, dog, fox and mink.

RESULTS

This method was investigated by analyzing DNA extracts from raw muscle, muscle mixtures, meat products and animal feeds. Our results indicated that the species of interest can be identified, differentiated and detected down to 1 g kg−1 in binary mixtures or 0.01–0.001 ng of genomic DNA from specific species. Testing of 125 commercial samples showed a 97.4% coincidence rate with the method used in routine testing in our lab.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that the method established in this study could detect ten animal materials simultaneously within 3 h, which provides a new, useful tool for animal ingredient analysis in meat products and animal feeds. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
A century of conservation: The ongoing recovery of Svalbard reindeer
Authors: Le Moullec Mathilde , Pedersen Åshild Ønvik , Stien Audun , Rosvold Jørgen , Hansen Brage Bremset
Published: October 2019

Several caribou and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) populations have experienced recent population declines, often attributed to anthropogenic stressors such as harvesting, landscape fragmentation, and climate change. Svalbard reindeer (R. t. platyrhynchus), the wild reindeer subspecies endemic to the high‐Arctic Svalbard archipelago, was protected in 1925, after most subpopulations had been eradicated by harvest. Although direct pressure from harvest has ceased, indirect anthropogenic stressors from environmental changes have increased in this climate change hot spot. An assessment of the current distribution and abundance is therefore urgently needed. We combined distance sampling (300 km transects,n = 489 reindeer groups) and total counts (1,350 km2,n = 1,349 groups) to estimate the Svalbard reindeer distribution and abundance across its entire range, which we compared with historical data from the literature and radiocarbon‐dated bones. Reindeer have now recolonized nearly all non‐glaciated land (i.e., areas occupied prior to human presence), and their spatial variation in abundance reflects vegetation productivity. Independent of vegetation productivity, however, recently recolonized areas have lower reindeer densities than areas not subject to past extirpation. This suggests that recovery from past overharvesting is still in progress. These incompletely recovered areas are potential targets for increased monitoring frequency and maintaining strict conservation to follow the Svalbard management goal (i.e., virtually untouched wilderness areas). Because of such ongoing recolonization, possibly combined with vegetation greening effects of recent warming, our status estimate of Svalbard reindeer abundance (22,435 [95% CI = 21,452–23,425]) is more than twice a previous estimate based on opportunistic counts. Thus, although our study demonstrates the successful outcome of strict harvesting control implemented a century ago, current and future population trajectories are likely shaped by climate change. © 2019 The Authors.Journal of Wildlife ManagementPublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Synthesis of Temperature and Light Sensitive Copolymers with Controlled Aggregation during Phase Transitions
Authors: Ding Lan , Zhang Pengfei , Fu Congcong , Yin Jialin , Mao Yongwang , Liu Na , Li Shihua , Yang Chunying , Zhao Ronghui , Deng Kuilin
Published: October 2019

Two thermosensitive copolymers of acrylates (PMP/PEP) and a thermo/light sensitive copolymer of acrylate with acrylamide (PMABz) are synthesized via a ring‐opening reaction and subsequent radical polymerization using a facile one‐pot method. The lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of PMP and PEP shows a dependence on the content of the structural unit and can be easily tuned to 18–35 °C by mercaptoethanol‐mediated control of the molecular weight. The isomerization of PMABz can be reversibly induced by alternating irradiation at 365 nm to produce the cis form and at 254 nm to produce the trans form. The LCST of cis‐PMABz (40.3 °C) is significantly higher than that of trans‐PMABz (37.8 °C) because of its higher hydrophilicity. Furthermore, the particle size of aggregated PMABz can be controlled from 665 nm (for the cis form) to 996 nm (for the trans form) during the heating run. After quenching the PMABz solution, PMABz particles have repeating patterns, such as leaf veins or hollow containers, indicating their potential applicability.
Self‐Powered Flexible Sensor Based on the Graphene Modified P(VDF‐TrFE) Electrospun Fibers for Pressure Detection
Authors: Li Ping , Zhao Libo , Jiang Zhuangde , Yu Mingzhi , Li Zhen , Li Xuejiao
Published: October 2019

Polymer P(VDF‐TrFE) has been extensively applied in modern flexible electronics, such as nanogenerators and pressure sensors. In this study, a repolarization method is proposed to exploit the piezoelectric properties of the P(VDF‐TrFE) electrospinning film modified by the reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Then, the repolarized composite film is applied as the self‐powered flexible pressure sensor. Notably, the piezoelectric output voltage and current of the repolarized composite film are up to 1.5 V and 0.125 µA, respectively. Typically, the piezoelectric voltage of the composite film is three times as high as that of the pure spinning film. Meanwhile, this composite film also exhibits piezoresistive effect, which is ascribed to the 3D network structure of the electrospun nanofibers. In addition, the highest piezoresistive sensitivity of the pressure sensor is 0.072 kPa−1. To sum up, the pressure sensor fabricated in this study allows to simultaneously detect the static and dynamic pressure loads, which thereby has great application potentials in electronic skins (e‐skins) for human motion monitoring, such as motion state and finger bending.
Poly(2‐oxazoline)s Based on Phenolic Acids
Authors: Lüdecke Nils , Weidner Steffen M. , Schlaad Helmut
Published: October 2019

A series of phenolic‐acid‐based 2‐oxazoline monomers with methoxy‐substituted phenyl and cinnamyl side chains is synthesized and polymerized in a microwave reactor at 140 °C using methyl tosylate as the initiator. The obtained poly(2‐oxazoline)s are characterized by NMR spectroscopy, MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry, and size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). Kinetic studies reveal that the microwave‐assisted polymerization is fast and completed within less than ≈10 min for low monomer‐to‐initiator ratios of ≤25. Polymers with number‐average molar masses of up to 6500 g mol−1 and low dispersity (1.2–1.3) are produced. The aryl methyl ethers are successfully cleaved with aluminum triiodide/N,N′‐diisopropylcarbodiimide to give a poly(2‐oxazoline) with pendent catechol groups.
Exercise increases caudate dopamine release and ventral striatal activation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Sacheli Matthew A. , Neva Jason L. , Lakhani Bimal , Murray Danielle K. , Vafai Nasim , Shahinfard Elham , English Carolyn , McCormick Siobhan , Dinelle Katie , Neilson Nicole , McKenzie Jessamyn , Schulzer Michael , McKenzie Don C. , Appel‐Cresswell Silke , McKeown Martin J. , Boyd Lara A. , Sossi Vesna , Stoessl A. Jon
Published: October 2019

Background

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of aerobic exercise on evoked dopamine release and activity of the ventral striatum using positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Thirty‐five participants were randomly allocated to a 36‐session aerobic exercise or control intervention. Each participant underwent an functional magnetic resonance imaging scan while playing a reward task before and after the intervention to determine the effect of exercise on the activity of the ventral striatum in anticipation of reward. A subset of participants (n = 25) completed [11C] raclopride positron emission tomography scans to determine the effect of aerobic exercise on repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation‐evoked release of endogenous dopamine in the dorsal striatum. All participants completed motor (MDS‐UPDRS part III, finger tapping, Timed‐up‐and‐go) and nonmotor assessments (Starkstein Apathy Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, reaction time, Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, Trail Making Test [A and B], and Montreal Cognitive Assessment) before and after the interventions.

Results

The aerobic group exhibited increased activity in the ventral striatum during functional magnetic resonance imaging in anticipation of 75% probability of reward (P = 0.01). The aerobic group also demonstrated increased repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation‐evoked dopamine release in the caudate nucleus (P = 0.04) and increased baseline nondisplaceable binding potential in the posterior putamen of the less affected repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation‐stimulated hemisphere measured by position emission tomography (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Aerobic exercise alters the responsivity of the ventral striatum, likely related to changes to the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway, and increases evoked dopamine release in the caudate nucleus. This suggests that the therapeutic benefits of exercise are in part related to corticostriatal plasticity and enhanced dopamine release. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A Ka‐band power amplifier with filtering characteristic for satellite communication
Authors: Xie Heng , Liu Qiushi , Song Bai , Fan Yong
Published: October 2019

This letter presents a power amplifier (PA) with the bandstop function for the satellite communication by using 0.15‐μm GaAs pHEMT process. It operates at Ka‐band (uplink at 30 GHz) and realizes the ability of filtering characteristic at K‐band (downlink at 20 GHz). In order to obtain the high suppression of this K‐band undesired frequency signal, the structure‐reused technology is adopted in this design. By using the structure reuse, the by‐pass capacitance of the decoupling circuit at each brand of the power supply is used to realize decoupling function, and then achieve the filtering characteristic at K‐band. Thanks to this structure, the whole circuit structure is simple, and it can be designed without adding other extra devices and changing the original matching topology. The miniaturization can be realized. Also, the proposed PA can operate over a wide bandwidth. The ability of high frequency suppression and the good filtering performance can be achieved over the undesired frequency band. According to the measured results, the proposed PA can operate from 28 to 35.5 GHz (23.6% relative bandwidth) and realize more than 40 dBc suppression from 18 to 22.6 GHz (22.7% relative bandwidth). In addition, the measured power‐added efficiency vs frequency is 21% to 30.8%. When the VGS is −0.45 V and the VD is 5 V, the quiescent current and the 1 dB compression point (P−1 dB) of output are 51 mA and 18 dBm, respectively. The total area of the proposed PA with band‐stop function is 1250 μm × 850 μm.