bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis of colorectal adenomas with and without recurrence reveals an association between cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine methylation and histological subtypes
Authors: Fiedler David , Hirsch Daniela , El Hajj Nady , Yang Howard H. , Hu Yue , Sticht Carsten , Nanda Indrajit , Belle Sebastian , Rueschoff Josef , Lee Maxwell P. , Ried Thomas , Haaf Thomas , Gaiser Timo
Published: July 2019

Aberrant methylation of DNA is supposed to be a major and early driver of colonic adenoma development, which may result in colorectal cancer (CRC). Although gene methylation assays are used already for CRC screening, differential epigenetic alterations of recurring and nonrecurring colorectal adenomas have yet not been systematically investigated. Here, we collected a sample set of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded colorectal low‐grade adenomas (n = 72) consisting of primary adenomas without and with recurrence (n = 59), recurrent adenomas (n = 10), and normal mucosa specimens (n = 3). We aimed to unveil differentially methylated CpG positions (DMPs) across the methylome comparing not only primary adenomas without recurrence vs primary adenomas with recurrence but also primary adenomas vs recurrent adenomas using the Illumina Human Methylation 450K BeadChip array. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering exhibited a significant association of methylation patterns with histological adenoma subtypes. No significant DMPs were identified comparing primary adenomas with and without recurrence. Despite that, a total of 5094 DMPs (false discovery rate <0.05; fold change >10%) were identified in the comparisons of recurrent adenomas vs primary adenomas with recurrence (674; 98% hypermethylated), recurrent adenomas vs primary adenomas with and without recurrence (241; 99% hypermethylated) and colorectal adenomas vs normal mucosa (4179; 46% hypermethylated). DMPs in cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) islands were frequently hypermethylated, whereas open sea‐ and shelf‐regions exhibited hypomethylation. Gene ontology analysis revealed enrichment of genes associated with the immune system, inflammatory processes, and cancer pathways. In conclusion, our methylation data could assist in establishing a more robust and reproducible histological adenoma classification, which is a prerequisite for improving surveillance guidelines.
Petrogenesis of Early Jurassic (ca. 181 Ma) dacitic–rhyolitic volcanic rocks in the Amdo ophiolite mélange, central Tibetan Plateau: Low‐pressure partial melts of Bangong–Nujiang Tethys oceanic crust?
Authors: Li Ming‐Jian , Zeng Yun‐Chuan , Xu Ji‐Feng , Huang Feng , Chen Qin
Published: July 2019

The identification of oceanic‐crust–derived melts is critical to improving our understanding of oceanic lithosphere subduction in various geodynamic settings. However, low‐pressure melts derived from the oceanic crust can be misidentified because their compositions are often indistinguishable from those of typical arc‐related rocks. In this study, we report geochronological and geochemical data for the Amdo volcanic rocks in the central Tibetan Plateau. Zircon U–Pb dating indicates that they were generated in the Early Jurassic (ca. 181 Ma), simultaneous with spatially associated MORB‐like rocks of the Amdo ophiolite. The Amdo volcanic rocks are characterized by high SiO2 and Na2O concentrations, low MgO, K2O, and Fe2O3T concentrations, and low Mg# values. They are enriched in light rare earth and large‐ion lithophile elements, display negative Eu, Nb, and Ta anomalies, and yield low Sr (<360 ppm) and high Y (up to 57.6 ppm) concentrations with low Sr/Y ratios (<15.4). Whole‐rock Sr–Nd and zircon Hf isotopic compositions ((87Sr/86Sr)i = 0.7040–0.7058, εNd(t) = +3.9 to +6.8, and zircon εHf(t) = +13.9 to +17.9) are different from those of regional continental‐crust–derived granitoids but similar to those of contemporary MORB‐like rocks that occur in regional ophiolites. Furthermore, zircon from the Amdo volcanic rocks yields U/Yb ratios similar to those of oceanic zircon. These characteristics, combined with regional geological observations, indicate that the Amdo volcanic rocks are a component of the Amdo ophiolite mélange and represent low‐pressure partial melts of oceanic crust, generated during incipient northward subduction of the Bangong–Nujiang oceanic lithosphere beneath the Qiangtang terrane. Our study helps to constrain the history of the Bangong–Nujiang Ocean and provides a case study on the low‐pressure melting of oceanic crust.
Spontaneous remission of follicular lymphoma
Authors: Morigi Alice , Casadei Beatrice , Argnani Lisa , Cavo Michele , Zinzani Pier Luigi
Published: July 2019

Follicular lymphoma is an indolent B cells proliferative disorder that represents approximately 35% of all non‐Hodgkin lymphomas. Although spontaneous remission is uncommon in patients with low grade non‐Hodgkin lymphomas, some cases have been reported. We present a case of follicular lymphoma for which we have documented a spontaneous remission both with serial instrumental investigations and through histological biopsy of the bone marrow. The patient is still in remission after 2 years of follow‐up.

The causes for a spontaneous remission are not known, and we can only hypothesize a possible reawakening of the host's immune response against the tumour.
The impact of out‐of‐pocket health expenditure on household impoverishment: Evidence from Morocco
Authors: Oudmane Meriem , Mourji Fouzi , Ezzrari Abdeljaouad
Published: July 2019

Health financing in Morocco relies mainly on out‐of‐pocket (OoP) payments. World Health Organization (WHO) has shown that these payments can expose households to catastrophic health expenditure (hereinafter CHE) and impoverish them. The study examines the financial burden of OoP health payments on Moroccan households. Two approaches—that developed by Wagstaff and Doeslear and the one advocated by WHO—are adopted to estimate the extent of CHE. These show that 1.77% of households incurred CHE at the 40% threshold for nonfood expenditure. At the 10% threshold for total consumption expenditure, 12.8% of households incurred CHE. We find that these OoP payments have made 1.11% of Moroccan households poorer. In analyzing the determinants of CHE, we estimated an ordered probit model. It appears that any of (a) hospitalization, (b) presence of an elderly person in the household, or (c) the level of poverty increases significantly the likelihood of health expenditure becoming catastrophic. On the other hand, we find that coverage by health insurance protects against CHE.
A comparative study on healthcare employee satisfaction between Japan and China
Authors: Gu Xiuzhu , Itoh Kenji
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To explore essential characteristics of healthcare employee satisfaction by comparing Japan and China in terms of job satisfaction model, satisfaction level, and the crucial factors predicting overall job satisfaction.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed with 35 facet‐specific job‐related satisfaction and 10 general satisfaction items. The Japanese survey collected 474 responses (74% response rate). Two additional items were added in the Chinese survey and 429 responses were collected (69%).

Results

The same five‐factor satisfaction model was acquired from both countries with an additional factor labelled “relationship with patients” for China. Applying these factors, a moderate satisfaction level was observed for all professional groups in China, whereas it varied in Japan. A moderate‐to‐high satisfaction was seen for physicians, a moderate level for pharmacists and technologists, and a low level for nurses. Japanese physicians were significantly more satisfied than Chinese physicians, whereas Japanese nurses were less satisfied than Chinese nurses. Both countries shared crucial predictors of overall job satisfaction that were reputation, growth and development, and work demands and workload. Additionally, financial rewards and relationship with patients were critically important for the Chinese.

Conclusions

Japanese and Chinese healthcare employees shared the job satisfaction model with an extra factor for Chinese. Satisfaction levels were similar for pharmacists and technologists in the two countries, but largely different for physicians and nurses. Because crucial satisfaction factors differed, it is suggested that strategies to improve job satisfaction should be specific to culture and profession, eg, in Chinese hospitals, management should support more to employees especially physicians for dealing with conflicts and medical disputes with patients.
PTEN expression and mutations in TSC1, TSC2 and MTOR are associated with response to rapalogs in patients with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Roldan‐Romero Juan M. , Beuselinck Benoit , Santos María , Rodriguez‐Moreno Juan F. , Lanillos Javier , Calsina Bruna , Gutierrez Ana , Tang Karin , Lainez Nuria , Puente Javier , Castellano Daniel , Esteban Emilio , Climent Miguel A. , Arranz Jose A. , Albersen Maarten , Oudard Stephane , Couchy Gabrielle , Caleiras Eduardo , Montero‐Conde Cristina , Cascón Alberto , Robledo Mercedes , Rodríguez‐Antona Cristina , García‐Donas Jesús ,   Spanish Oncology Genitourinary Group (SOGUG)
Published: July 2019

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway inhibitors are key drugs for the treatment of many tumor types, however, there are no predictive biomarkers in clinical use. Here, we performed a molecular and immunohistochemical characterization of key mTOR pathway components in a series of 105 renal cell carcinoma patients treated with rapalogs, aimed at identifying markers of treatment response. Mutational analysis in MTOR, TSC1 and TSC2 was performed through targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed for PTEN, pAKT, pS6K1, pS6 and p21. Among patients with NGS data, 11 of 87 (13%) had mTOR pathway mutations (8 in MTOR, 1 in TSC1 and 2 in TSC2). When comparing the molecular data to the response of the patients, we found that partial response was more frequent in cases with mTOR pathway mutations than in those without mutations (odds ratio [OR] = 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.008–0.79, p = 0.030 univariate; p = 0.038 multivariable). Regarding IHC, negative PTEN staining was detected in 58% of the tumors, and it was more frequent in rapalog responder patients (OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.065–0.86, p = 0.029 univariate; p = 0.029 multivariable). Mutations and PTEN IHC were not mutually exclusive events and its combination improved response prediction (OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.04–0.62, p = 0.008 univariate; p = 0.013 multivariable). The staining of other proteins did not show and association with response and no association with PFS was observed in unselected patients. In conclusion, our findings suggest that mTOR pathway mutations, negative PTEN IHC and their combination are potential markers of rapalog response.
Nonlinear optics of two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Wen Xinglin , Gong Zibo , Li Dehui
Published: July 2019

Nonlinear optics (NLO) of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) is promising for the on‐chip photonic and optoelectronic applications. In this review, we will survey the current progress of NLO in TMDs. First, we will brief the basic theory of the NLO in TMDs. Second, several important nonlinear processes in TMDs such as harmonic generation, four‐wave mixing, saturable absorption, and two‐photon absorption will be presented and their potential applications are also discussed. Third, the main strategies to tune, modulate, and enhance the NLO in TMDs are reviewed, including the excitonic effect, symmetry modulation, optical cavity enhancement, valley selection, edge state, and material phase. Finally, we give an outlook regarding some important issues and directions of NLO in TMDs.
A survey of critical care pharmacists to patient ratios and practice characteristics in intensive care units
Authors: Newsome Andrea S. , Smith Susan E. , Jones Timothy W. , Taylor Ashley , Van Berkel Megan A. , Rabinovich Marina
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Pharmacists are widely recognized members of the critical care health care team. However, unlike other health care professions, critical care pharmacists do not have standardized pharmacist to patient ratios that establish maximal cost‐efficiency while maintaining optimal patient safety. Though many prior recommendations claim a ratio of 1:15 for safe pharmacy practice, recommendations have ranged as low as 1:8 to as high as 1:30.

Objectives

To determine critical care pharmacists' perceptions of pharmacist to patient ratios within the intensive care unit (ICU) and qualitatively and quantitatively describe critical care pharmacist work environments.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of pharmacists was conducted to identify current pharmacist to patient ratios and identify pharmacist perceptions of the safety of these ratios. Responses were presented using descriptive statistics. Multiple linear regression was conducted to determine factors associated with perceptions of workload and patient safety.

Results

The response rate was 11% (n = 185). The majority of respondents reported participating in activities beyond patient care. The majority of pharmacists cared for more than 15 patients daily (n = 155, 84%), and 16% took care of 15 or fewer patients. About 30% of pharmacists did not feel the pharmacist to patient ratio optimized patient safety, and over half reported perceptions overwork. A majority of participants (n = 130, 76%) expressed a need for additional critical care pharmacists at their institutions. Higher pharmacist to patient ratios were associated with increased perception of unsafe patient care −.343 (−.507 to −.180, P < .001).

Conclusions

Heterogeneity exists among critical care pharmacy activities that may influence pharmacists' perceptions of workload and patient safety. Critical care pharmacists report that their institutions should have more critical care pharmacists. Pharmacists' perceptions of workload vary based on differences in their activities outside of patient care.
Hyperspectral optical coherence tomography for in vivo visualization of melanin in the retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Harper Danielle J. , Konegger Thomas , Augustin Marco , Schützenberger Kornelia , Eugui Pablo , Lichtenegger Antonia , Merkle Conrad W. , Hitzenberger Christoph K. , Glösmann Martin , Baumann Bernhard
Published: July 2019

Previous studies for melanin visualization in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) have exploited either its absorption properties (using photoacoustic tomography or photothermal optical coherence tomography [OCT]) or its depolarization properties (using polarization sensitive OCT). However, these methods are only suitable when the melanin concentration is sufficiently high. In this work, we present the concept of hyperspectral OCT for melanin visualization in the RPE when the concentration is low. Based on white light OCT, a hyperspectral stack of 27 wavelengths (440‐700 nm) was created in post‐processing for each depth‐resolved image. Owing to the size and shape of the melanin granules in the RPE, the variations in backscattering coefficient as a function of wavelength could be identified—a result which is to be expected from Mie theory. This effect was successfully identified both in eumelanin‐containing phantoms and in vivo in the low‐concentration Brown Norway rat RPE.
The Unmixing Problem: A Guide to Applying Single-Cell RNA Sequencing to Bone
Authors: Greenblatt Matthew B , Ono Noriaki , Ayturk Ugur M , Debnath Shawon , Lalani Sarfaraz
Published: July 2019

Bone is composed of a complex mixture of many dynamic cell types. Flow cytometry and in vivo lineage tracing have offered early progress toward deconvoluting this heterogeneous mixture of cells into functionally well-defined populations suitable for further studies. Single-cell sequencing is poised as a key complementary technique to better understand the cellular basis of bone metabolism and development. However, single-cell sequencing approaches still have important limitations, including transcriptional effects of cell isolation and sparse sampling of the transcriptome, that must be considered during experimental design and analysis to harness the power of this approach. Accounting for these limitations requires a deep knowledge of the tissue under study. Therefore, with the emergence of accessible tools for conducting and analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) experiments, bone biologists will be ideal leaders in the application of scRNA-seq to the skeleton. Here we provide an overview of the steps involved with a single-cell sequencing analysis of bone, focusing on practical considerations needed for a successful study. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Chromium to chromium quintuple bonds in a trigonal lantern configuration
Authors: Yen Chun‐Hsu , Lin Yi‐Deng , Hsueh Hsiang‐Wen , Shieh Yun‐Jen , Wu Pei‐Fang , Kuo Ting‐Shen , Tsai Yi‐Chou
Published: July 2019

A new family of the quintuply bonded dichromium complexes [Cr2{μ‐κ2‐HC(N‐2,6‐R2C6H3)2}2(μ‐κ2‐HC[NAr]2)] (R =
iPr, Ar = 4‐MeC6H4 (5), Ar = 3,5‐Me2C6H3 (6), and Ar = 2,6‐Me2C6H3 (7); R = Et, Ar = 4‐MeC6H4 (8), Ar = 3,5‐Me2C6H3 [9], and Ar = 2,6‐Et2C6H3 (10)) with a heteroleptic lantern configuration was obtained upon the addition of one equivalent of amidinate to the quintuply bonded dichromium amidinates [Cr{μ‐κ2‐HC(N‐2,6‐R2C6H3)2}]2 (R =
iPr, Et). Additionally, the same approach was applied to the preparation of the acetate derivative [Cr2{μ‐κ2‐HC(N‐2,6‐
iPr2C6H3)2}2(μ‐κ2‐CH3CO2)] (11), which represents the first example that the quintuply bonded dinuclear complex contains an oxygen‐containing ligand. Of particular interest is that the Cr‐Cr bond lengths in these new trigonal paddlewheel quintuple Cr‐Cr bond species are comparable with those in their precursor compounds. They show ultrashort Cr‐Cr bond lengths in a narrow range of 1.740–1.755 å on the basis of single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography. The small Mayer bond orders of the long Cr‐N bonds as well as divergent, C2v and D3h, structural conformations in 5–11 suggest that the metal–ligand interactions possess minor covalent character and the electrostatic interactions play a dominant role. As a result, these extremely short Cr‐Cr quintuple bonds are caused by the overlap between five pairs of d orbitals that do not involve much in metal–ligand bonding. Additionally, anionic lantern dichromium trisamidinates 5–10 can be chemically oxidized by one electron, supported by electrochemistry, and their ease to undergo oxidation is presumably associated with their neutral lantern dichromium trisamindinate products, whose structures inherently display a Jahn‐Teller distortion, exemplified by the structure of the homoleptic dichromium complex [Cr2{μ‐κ2‐HC(N‐2,6‐Et2C6H3)2}3] [12] determined by X‐ray crystallography. These results unambiguously support the Cr‐Cr quintuple bonding in these novel anionic lantern dichromium complexes.
A case of secondary acute myeloid leukemia on a background of glycogen storage disease with chronic neutropenia treated with granulocyte colony stimulating factor
Authors: Khalaf Dina , Bell Heather , Dale David , Gupta Vikas , Faghfoury Hanna , Morel Chantal F. , Tierens Anne , Weinstein David A. , Yan Jiong , Thyagu Santhosh , Maze Dawn
Published: July 2019

Congenital neutropenias due to mutations in ELANE, SBDS or HAX1 or in the setting of glycogen storage disease (GSD) which is caused by SLC37A4 mutation, often require prolonged granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF) therapy to prevent recurrent infections and hospital admission. There has been emerging evidence that prolonged exposure to G‐CSF in cases with congenital neutropenia other than GSD is associated with transformation to myelodysplastic syndrome/acute myeloid leukemia.
MRI as Diagnostic Modality for Analyzing the Problematic Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schröder Femke F. , Post Corine E. , Wagenaar Frank‐Christiaan B.M. , Verdonschot Nico , Huis in't Veld Rianne M.H.A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Various diagnostic modalities are available to assess the problematic knee arthroplasty. Visualization of soft‐tissue structures in relation to the arthroplasty and bone remains difficult. Recent developments in MRI sequences could make MRI a viable addition to the diagnostic arsenal.

Purpose

To review the diagnostic properties of MRI, to identify certain causes of complaints that may be directly related to implant failure of total (TKA) or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA); infection, loosening and wear, instability, malalignment, arthrofibrosis, or patellofemoral problems.

Study Type

Systematic review.

Population

Twenty‐three studies were included: 16 TKA, four UKA, and three cadaveric studies. Causes of knee arthroplasty complaints analyzed were; infection (three), loosening and wear (11), malalignment (five) and instability (four).

Field Strength and Sequences

No field strength or sequence restrictions.

Assessment

PubMed, SCOPUS, and EMBASE were searched. Risk of bias was assessed using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) and the QUality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies‐2 (QUADAS‐2).

Statistical Tests

The results of the original research articles are stated.

Results

Fifteen studies assessed the reproducibility of analyzing infection, loosening and wear, and malalignment. Fourteen of 15 studies were deemed as adequate to good quality. Results showed a moderate to excellent agreement (ICC/K 0.55–0.97). Fourteen studies addressed the accuracy. For infection and loosening and wear the sensitivity and specificity estimates varied between 0.85–0.97 and 0.70–1.00, respectively. The accuracy for malalignment was excellent (r ≥ 0.81). For these studies QUADAS‐2 analysis suggested few risks of bias. A meta‐analysis was not possible due to the heterogeneity of the data.

Data Conclusion

This study supports that MRI can be used with overall reproducible and accurate results for diagnosing infection, loosening and wear, and malalignment after knee arthroplasty. Nonetheless, studies regarding the diagnosis of instability, arthrofibrosis or patellofemoral complaints using MRI are limited and inconclusive.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:446–458.
Evolutionary extreme learning machine for the behavioral modeling of RF power amplifiers
Authors: Fu Haipeng , Wang Kaikai , Ma Kaixue , Xing Guangyu
Published: July 2019

In this paper, evolutionary extreme learning machine (E‐ELM) is first introduced for RF power amplifiers (PAs) behavioral modeling. This approach combined differential evolution (DE) and extreme learning machine (ELM) to effectively solve the problem that more neurons of hidden layer are required, and repeated trials are necessary in behavioral modeling PAs by conventional ELM. As revealed in the modeling practices on Class‐AB and Class‐E PAs, fewer hidden layer neurons are used than the condition of conventional ELM. Meanwhile, it is found that ELM's unstable generalization ability in modeling PAs is also significantly improved, thanks to the internal DE method in the E‐ELM.
Hollow Notched K‐Wires for Bone Drilling With Through‐Tool Cooling
Authors: Luo Yuanqiang , Chen Lei , Shih Albert J.
Published: July 2019

Kirschner wire (K‐wire) is a common tool in clinical orthopedic surgery for bone fracture fixation. A significant amount of heat is generated in bone drilling using K‐wires, causing bone thermal necrosis and osteonecrosis. To minimize the temperature rise, a hollow notched K‐wire in a modified surgical hand drill with through‐tool cooling was developed to study the bone temperature, debris evacuation, and material removal rate. The hollow notched K‐wire was fabricated by grinding and micro‐milling on a stainless steel tube. Bone drilling tests were conducted to evaluate its performance against the solid K‐wires. Results showed that compared with solid K‐wires, hollow notched K‐wire drilling without cooling reduced the peak bone temperature rise, thrust force, and torque by 42%, 59%, and 62% correspondingly. The through‐tool compressed air reduced the peak bone temperature rise by 48% with the forced air convection and better debris evacuation. The through‐tool water cooling decreased the bone temperature by only 26% due to accumulation and blockage of bone debris in the groove and channel. This study demonstrated the benefit of using the hollow notched K‐wire with through‐tool compressed air to prevent the bone thermal necrosis. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2297–2306, 2019
Utility of Raman spectroscopy in diabetes detection based on biomarker Raman bands and in antidiabetic efficacy studies of herbal extract Rotheca myricoides Hochst
Authors: Chege Boniface M. , Birech Zephania , Mwangi Peter W. , Bukachi Frederick O.
Published: July 2019

Diabetes is a disease characterized by hyperglycaemia because of insufficient or nonproduction of insulin from the pancreas. Establishing prediabetic and diabetic condition often involves monitoring levels of glucose and some amino acids in blood using nonrapid and label‐dependent methods. This work reports on a method with a potential of being used for quick label‐free detection of diabetes mellitus type II based on Raman spectroscopy of blood applied onto a conductive silver‐smeared glass slide. We show that Raman spectral profile from blood of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic Sprague Dawley rats emanates from overlap of signals from valine, leucine, isoleucine, creatine, glucose, and fructose. The Raman spectral bands associated with these biomolecules have the potential of being used in prediabetic detection and diabetes prediction. Characteristic intense peaks in diabetic rat's blood spectra were centred at wave numbers 537 cm−1 associated with valine's CO2− rocking vibration, 829 cm−1 assigned to CH2 rocking vibration in leucine and 917–960 cm−1 ascribed to C–C and C–N stretching and CH3 rocking vibrations in various biomolecules. The average intensities of these bands were sensitive to antidiabetic drug administration on the rats as their values approached those of nondiabetic rats and so could be used as diabetes biomarker bands. Statistical analyses together with evaluation of average intensities of these biomarker bands showed that the herbal extract Rotheca myricoides Hochst had greater antidiabetic effect at low dose (50 mg/kg of body weight) than at high dose (100 mg/kg of body weight). A similar result was seen with area under curve values and could act as an additional parameter in diabetes detection and prediction.
Pomegranate peels crude extract as a corrosion inhibitor of mild steel in HCl medium: Passivation and hydrophobic effect
Authors: Ait Aghzzaf Ahmed , Veys‐Renaux Delphine , Rocca Emmanuel
Published: July 2019

Low‐toxic and cheap corrosion inhibitors are used for determining the durability of industrial equipment in acidic medium. The aim of the present study is to investigate the pomegranate peels crude extract (PPE) as a corrosion inhibitor of steel in 1 M HCl. The optimum yield of extraction, in terms of total phenolic content, was obtained by using a Soxhlet process in an aqueous solvent. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of PPE was investigated with stationary and dynamic electrochemical techniques. PPE acts as a mixed‐type corrosion inhibitor in very acidic medium, thanks to the formation of an organic layer made of various components, providing both a chemical antioxidant activity, likely due to the polyphenolic compounds, and a physical hydrophobic barrier against the aggressive environment, likely due to the filming properties of macromolecules as pectin or fatty acids.
Structure–Property–Process Relationship for Blown Films of Bimodal HDPE and Its LLDPE Blend
Authors: Rungswang Wonchalerm , Wongpanit Panya , Jarumaneeroj Chatchai , Jirasukho Prapasinee , Juabrum Sawitree , Soontaranon Siriwat , Rugmai Supagorn
Published: July 2019

Blown films of bimodal‐high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) (BPE) and its blend containing 40 wt% of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) are prepared in various neck‐heights (NHs). The crystal structures of both films are investigated in detail using small‐angle X‐ray scattering and wide‐angle x‐ray diffraction techniques. The results show that the blending of LLDPE notably modifies the crystal structure of BPE, including crystal density (ρc), crystallite size of the 110 plane (〈L110〉), thickness of the lamellar crystal (Lc), and grain widths of the lamellae. The relationships between NH, crystal structure, and the resistance of dart‐drop impact (DDI) are investigated for both BPE and BPE/LLDPE films. The results indicate that the reorientation of lamellae might be a primary factor responsible for the DDI property. However, large values of ρc, Lc, and 〈L110〉 are required for the film to achieve high DDI.
Immunomodulatory drugs alleviate l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia in a rat model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Boi Laura , Pisanu Augusta , Greig Nigel H. , Scerba Michael T. , Tweedie David , Mulas Giovanna , Fenu Sandro , Carboni Ezio , Spiga Saturnino , Carta Anna R.
Published: July 2019

Background

Thalidomide and closely related analogues are used clinically for their immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic properties mediated by the inhibition of the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α. Neuroinflammation and angiogenesis contribute to classical neuronal mechanisms underpinning the pathophysiology of l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia, a motor complication associated with l‐dopa therapy in Parkinson's disease. The efficacy of thalidomide and the more potent derivative 3,6′‐dithiothalidomide on dyskinesia was tested in the 6‐hydroxydopamine Parkinson's disease model.

Methods

Three weeks after 6‐hydroxydopamine infusion, rats received 10 days of treatment with l‐dopa plus benserazide (6 mg/kg each) and thalidomide (70 mg/kg) or 3,6′‐dithiothalidomide (56 mg/kg), and dyskinesia and contralateral turning were recorded daily. Rats were euthanized 1 hour after the last l‐dopa injection, and levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐10, OX‐42, vimentin, and vascular endothelial growth factor immunoreactivity were measured in their striatum and substantia nigra reticulata to evaluate neuroinflammation and angiogenesis. Striatal levels of GLUR1 were measured as a l‐dopa‐induced postsynaptic change that is under tumor necrosis factor‐α control.

Results

Thalidomide and 3,6′‐dithiothalidomide significantly attenuated the severity of l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia while not affecting contralateral turning. Moreover, both compounds inhibited the l‐dopa‐induced microgliosis and excessive tumor necrosis factor‐α in the striatum and substantia nigra reticulata, while restoring physiological levels of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10. l‐Dopa‐induced angiogenesis was inhibited in both basal ganglia nuclei, and l‐dopa‐induced GLUR1 overexpression in the dorsolateral striatum was restored to normal levels.

Conclusions

These data suggest that decreasing tumor necrosis factor‐α levels may be useful to reduce the appearance of dyskinesia, and thalidomide, and more potent derivatives may provide an effective therapeutic approach to dyskinesia. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Regularization of a final value problem for a nonlinear biharmonic equation
Authors: Hua Quoc Nam Danh , Van Au Vo , Huy Tuan Nguyen , O'Regan Donal
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we consider the nonlinear biharmonic equation. The problem is ill‐posed in the sense of Hadamard. To obtain a stable numerical solution, we consider a regularization method. We show rigourously, with error estimates provided, that the corresponding regularized solutions converge to the true solution strongly in
uniformly with respect to the space coordinate under some a priori assumptions on the solution.
Fixed‐point theorem for a generalized almost Hardy‐Rogers‐type F contraction on metric‐like spaces
Authors: Saipara Plern , Khammahawong Konrawut , Kumam Poom
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we introduce some fixed‐point theorems for a generalized almost Hardy‐Rogers‐type F contraction in a metric‐like space and give an example to illustrate these main results. Moreover, we show the applications of electric circuit equations, second‐order differential equations, and fractional differential equations. Our results improve, generalize, and extend the corresponding results in literature.
Guidelines for neuromuscular ultrasound training
Authors: Tawfik Eman A. , Cartwright Michael S. , Grimm Alexander , Boon Andrea J. , Kerasnoudis Antonios , Preston David C. , Wilder‐Smith Einar , Axer Hubertus , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D. , van Alfen Nens , Crump Nicholas , Shahrizaila Nortina , Inkpen Peter , Mandeville Ross , Sakamuri Sarada , Shook Steven J. , Shin Susan , Walker Francis O.
Published: July 2019

Neuromuscular ultrasound has become an essential tool in the diagnostic evaluation of various neuromuscular disorders, and, as such, there is growing interest in neuromuscular ultrasound training. Effective training is critical in mastering this modality. Our aim was to develop consensus‐based guidelines for neuromuscular ultrasound training courses. A total of 18 experts participated. Expert opinion was sought through the Delphi method using 4 consecutive electronic surveys. A high degree of consensus was achieved with regard to the general structure of neuromuscular ultrasound training; the categorization of training into basic, intermediate, and advanced levels; the learning objectives; and the curriculum for each level. In this study, a group of neuromuscular ultrasound experts established consensus‐based guidelines for neuromuscular ultrasound training. These guidelines can be used in the development of the specialty and the standardization of neuromuscular ultrasound training courses and workshops.
The dark side of the work of immigrant women caregivers in Spain: Qualitative interview findings
Authors: Rivera‐Navarro Jesús , Del Rey Alberto , Paniagua Tania
Published: July 2019

Aim

To analyse the perception that immigrant women caregivers have of their relationship with the person receiving the care and their family and the possible impact those relationships may have on a caregiver's health.

Design

A qualitative study was conducted.

Methods

Thirty‐four semi‐structured interviews were applied in the Spanish city of Salamanca from November 2015–November 2016. The “interpretative hermeneutics” technique was used as the framework for the analysis.

Results

The discourse studied indicated that the immigrant women's cultural background, as well as their gender's assumed stereotypes, gave rise to an emotional attachment to the person receiving the care, which could generate a burden. Most of the women interviewed reported situations of abuse from the old people under their care. The fact that increasingly more old people are being cared for by immigrant women renders it necessary for social and health policies to consider this collective.
Influence of knowledge, bodily integrity, religion and media on attitudes toward organ donation on the university campus
Authors: Arisal Ibrahim , Atalar Tarik
Published: July 2019

This study examines the influence of knowledge, bodily integrity, religion, and media on attitudes toward organ donation on University campus. A total of 724 participants completed surveys for this study a multivariate regression model was used to test the effects of these factors on participants' attitudes toward organ donation. The variable sets considered are the knowledge of organ donation, bodily integrity, religion, media, and attitudes toward organ donation. The results suggest that the effect of knowledge, bodily integrity, religion, and media influences the intention to donate organs. There is a positive relationship between the knowledge levels of participants on the University campus and belief levels and organ donation attitudes, and the fear of disintegration of their bodies is still an obstacle to organ donation. The paper indicates how it is possible to distinguish different components of organ donation behavior and to present the conclusions regarding the context on a University campus. The findings extend the exchanges with respect to the part of beliefs in the intentions of organ donation and arrangement of attitudes and have a significant incentive in making open approaches that further promote organ donation.
Association between Use of Methadone, Other Central Nervous System Depressants, and QTc Interval–Prolonging Medications and Risk of Mortality in a Large Cohort of Women Living with or at Risk for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Tamraz Bani , Reisner Lori , French Audrey L. , King Samuel T. , Fischl Margaret A. , Ofotokun Igho , Kashuba Angela , Milam Joel , Murphy Kerry , Augenbraun Michael , Liu Chenglong , Finley Patrick R. , Aouizerat Bradley , Cocohoba Jennifer , Gange Stephen , Bacchetti Peter , Greenblatt Ruth M.
Published: July 2019

Study Objective

To evaluate the association between use of methadone, other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and QTc interval–prolonging medications and risk of mortality among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected and at‐risk HIV‐uninfected women.

Design

Multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study (Women's Interagency HIV Study [WIHS]).

Participants

A total of 4150 women enrolled in the WIHS study between 1994 and 2014 who were infected (3119 women) or not infected (1031 women) with HIV.

Measurements and Main Results

Data on medication utilization were collected from all study participants via interviewer‐administered surveys at 6‐month intervals (1994–2014). Mortality was confirmed by National Death Index data. With age defining the time scale for the analysis, Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for all‐cause mortality in HIV‐infected and ‐uninfected women and non–acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) deaths in HIV‐infected women. A total of 1046 deaths were identified, of which 429 were considered non‐AIDS deaths. Use of benzodiazepines, CNS depressants (excluding methadone), and number of medications with conditional QTc interval–prolonging effects were each associated with all‐cause mortality in multivariate models of HIV‐infected women: hazard ratio (HR) 1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.60, p=0.037; HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.35–1.92, p<0.0001; and HR 1.15 per drug, 95% CI 1.00–1.33, p=0.047, respectively. Other explanatory variables for all‐cause mortality in this model included HIV viral load, CD4+ cell count, renal function, hemoglobin and albumin levels, HIV treatment era, employment status, existence of depressive symptoms, ever use of injection drugs, and tobacco smoking. Of interest, use of CNS depressants (excluding methadone) was also associated with non‐AIDS deaths (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.49–2.2, p<0.0001). Although use of benzodiazepines and conditional QT interval–prolonging medications were associated with increased risk of non‐AIDS mortality (HR 1.32 and 1.25, respectively), the effect was not statistically significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion

In this cohort of HIV‐infected and at‐risk HIV‐uninfected women, use of benzodiazepines, CNS depressants, and conditional QTc interval–prolonging medications were associated with a higher risk of mortality independent of methadone and other well‐recognized mortality risk factors. Care must be taken to assess risk when prescribing these medications in this underserved and at‐risk patient population.
Therapeutic potential of adenosine kinase inhibition—Revisited
Authors: Jarvis Michael F.
Published: July 2019

Adenosine (ADO) is an endogenous protective regulator that restores cellular energy balance in response to tissue trauma. Extracellular ADO has a half‐life of the order of seconds thus restricting its actions to tissues and cellular sites where it is released. Adenosine kinase (AK, ATP:adenosine 5′‐phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.20) is a cytosolic enzyme that is the rate‐limiting enzyme controlling extracellular ADO concentrations. Inhibition of AK can effectively increase ADO extracellular concentrations at tissue sites where pathophysiological changes occur. Highly potent and selective nucleoside and non‐nucleoside AK inhibitors were discovered in the late 1990s that showed in vivo effects consistent with the augmentation of the actions of endogenous ADO in experimental models of pain, inflammation, and seizure activity. These data supported clinical development of several AK inhibitors for the management of epilepsy and chronic pain. However, early toxicological data demonstrated that nucleoside and non‐nucleoside chemotypes produced hemorrhagic microfoci in brain in an apparent ADO receptor‐dependent fashion. An initial oral report of these important toxicological findings was presented at an international conference but a detailed description of these data has not appeared in the peer‐reviewed literature. In the two decades following the demise of these early AK‐based clinical candidates, interest in AK inhibition has renewed based on preclinical data in the areas of renal protection, diabetic retinopathy, cardioprotection, and neurology. This review provides a summary of the pharmacology and toxicology data for several AK inhibitor chemotypes and the resulting translational issues associated with the development of AK inhibitors as viable therapeutic interventions.
Determination of Current Leakage Sites in Diamond p–n Junction
Authors: Murooka Takuya , Umezawa Hitoshi , Makino Toshiharu , Ogura Masahiko , Kato Hiromitsu , Yamasaki Satoshi , Iwasaki Takayuki , Pernot Julien , Hatano Mutsuko
Published: July 2019

Current leakage sites in diamond p–n junction are determined by measuring an electron‐beam–induced current (EBIC) technique and conductive atomic force microscopy (C‐AFM). Current leakage sites in p–n diodes, particularly, can be determined by means of EBIC without destruction of the device structure. From EBIC observation, bright spots with higher signal intensity than these in surrounding region are observed in p–n diodes, and these spots strongly correlate with the leakage current. It is found that these bright spots are originating from pits of comet‐shaped defects observed by a scanning electron microscope. With C‐AFM, the leakage current is detected at pits of comet‐shaped defects. Reduction in comet‐shaped defects shall be reduced using the technique of reduction in dislocation and high‐quality crystal growth to suppress the leakage current.
One‐Step Construction of Novel PbBiO2Br/ZnO Heterojunction Composites with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Xia Yongmei , He Zuming , Su Jiangbin , Li Xiaoping , Tang Bin
Published: July 2019

PbBiO2Br/ZnO heterojunction composites are synthesized using a one‐step method. The as‐synthesized samples are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), energy‐disperse X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), ultraviolet‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐vis DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the PbBiO2Br/ZnO heterojunction composites is assessed by measuring the removal of methyl orange (MO) from wastewater under simulated sunlight irradiation. The results demonstrate that the PbBiO2Br/ZnO heterojunction composites are composed of ZnO nanorods and PbBiO2Br cubic nanosheets. The PbBiO2Br/ZnO heterojunction composites exhibit enhanced photocatalytic performances for the degradation of MO under irradiation by simulated sunlight. Among the composites, the 10% PbBiO2Br/ZnO composite exhibits optimal activity, and the removal percentage of the dye reaches 92.1% after 60 min of reaction. This is mainly attributed to the efficient separation of photo‐generated e−–h+ pairs and the formation of heterojunctions. According to the active species trapping experiments, photo‐generated h+ is confirmed to be the main active species, whereas and play a secondary role in the reaction process. Additionally, the recycling experiments suggest that the PbBiO2Br/ZnO composites have good stability in the reaction process.
Forecasting the monsoon on daily to seasonal time‐scales in support of a field campaign
Authors: Martin Gill M. , Brooks Malcolm E. , Johnson Ben , Milton Sean F. , Webster Stuart , Jayakumar A. , Mitra Ashis K. , Rajan D. , Hunt Kieran M. R.
Published: July 2019

The successful planning and execution of a major field campaign relies on the availability and reliability of weather forecasts on a range of time‐scales. Here, we describe the wide range of forecast products generated in support of a field campaign that took place in India in 2016 as part of the Interaction of Convective Organization with Monsoon Precipitation, Atmosphere, Surface and Sea (INCOMPASS) project. We show examples of the suite of plots generated every day from the forecasts and supplied to the mission scientists, and describe how these were used to plan the flights. We highlight the benefits of having access to forecasts from a range of model resolutions and configurations; these allowed judgements to be made about uncertainty, particularly in the amount and location of deep convective rainfall, which is an important consideration for flight planning. Finally, we discuss the legacy of the forecasting activity, which has not only advanced our understanding of monsoon forecasting but also created a large database of targeted model forecast products for the whole of the 2016 monsoon season. These can be used by researchers for comparisons with in situ observations as well as future modelling studies.
Effects of reservoir operation methods on downstream ecological disturbance and economic benefits
Authors: Liu Hongrui , Yin Xin‐An , Xu Zhihao , Cai Yanpeng , Yang Wei
Published: July 2019

The natural flow regime can sustain the ecological integrity of riverine ecosystems. Different reservoir operation polices differ in their effects on the degree of alteration of natural flow regimes. Dynamic programming plays an important role in developing operation policies. When using dynamic programming models to develop operation policies, the discrete number of storage states (DNSS), which is a key factor affecting the reservoirs operation policies, is always been determined based on computational efficiency and economic benefits. Little consideration has been given to the ecological disturbance caused by different DNSS‐based operation policies. To analyze the impact of DNSS, we built a deterministic dynamic programming model to explore the relationship among DNSS, the flow regime alteration (ecological disturbance), and the cumulative annual power generation (economic benefits) by setting a range of DNSS scenarios. We used three reservoirs with different storage coefficients (ratios of usable storage to annual average runoff) as examples and used the range of variability approach to assess the ecological disturbance under these scenarios. We compared the results with those of a stochastic dynamic programming (SDP) model and a Bayesian SDP (BSDP) model. We found that when DNSS is low, increasing DNSS improves economic benefits but causes a more severe ecological disturbance; when DNSS is high, increasing DNSS improves the economic benefits only slightly, without exacerbating the ecological disturbance; for a given DNSS, the BSDP model provides higher economic benefits than the SDP model and a similar disturbance of the riverine ecosystem; and larger reservoirs more often cause more severe disturbance of riverine ecosystems because monthly mean flows and annual extreme flows change more drastically. Our results will help to protect the riverine ecosystems and improve economic benefits if reservoir operation managers consider DNSS using dynamic programming models.