bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct conversion of somatic cells towards oligodendroglial lineage cells: A novel strategy for enhancement of myelin repair
Authors: Yavarpour‐Bali Hanie , Nakhaei‐Nejad Maryam , Yazdi Azadeh , Ghasemi‐Kasman Maryam
Published: September 2019

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are considered as the main cell source for myelination in the central nervous system. Following demyelination, proliferation, migration, and differentiation capability of endogenous OPCs remarkably increase leading to remyelination in damaged areas. Despite the beneficial impacts of resident OPCs for myelin repair, the capacity of endogenous repair is low and insufficient. Therefore, several strategies have been developed to improve endogenous myelin repair. Although stem cell therapy has been introduced as a promising strategy for neurodegenerative disorders, but several limitations such as cell rejection, teratoma formation, and ethical concerns have hampered the extensive application of stem cells in clinic. In recent years, direct conversion of fully differentiated somatic cells into desired cells in the lesion area has opened a new era in regenerative medicine. In addition to direct reprogramming of somatic cells to neurons, recent evidence have also demonstrated that somatic cells, including fibroblasts and astrocytes, can be directly reprogrammed to OPC‐like cells by overexpression of some specific transcription factors, microRNAs, or application of small molecules. Interestingly, induced OPCs differentiated to myelinating oligodendrocytes that could effectively ensheath the host axons. In the present review article, the current advancements in direct conversion of somatic cells towards oligodendroglial cells have been discussed both in vitro and in vivo.
Color and pumice stone problems in denim processing effluents: removal potential by integrated physical–chemical treatment
Authors: Hooshmand Masoomeh , Sözen Seval , Sensoy Hakan A , Orday Nurdan , Yagci Nevin , Orhon Derin
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Despite extensive research on textile wastewaters, very few studies have been devoted to denim processing effluents, basically ignoring the major pumice stone and color problems. This article defined an integrated physical–chemical pre‐treatment scheme as a sustainable solution, which would achieve full removal of pumice stone and color, and would provide an optimum adjustment of wastewater characteristics for biological treatment.

RESULTS

This survey revealed a strong effluent with 1.0 g L−1 pumice stone (> 2 mm in size); 3.4 g L−1 total suspended solids (TSS) (< 2 mm in size); 1.15 g L−1 chemical oxygen demand (COD) and color 630 platinum‐cobalt (Pt‐Co) units, as 70 percentile values. Then, two representative samples approximating 70 percentile COD value were taken for laboratory‐scale evaluation involving a sequence of preliminary settling and chemical settling experiments. Preliminary settling for 1.0 h reduced the TSS levels to 760–520 mg L−1 and COD to 790–810 mg L−1 for samples 1 and 2, respectively. No appreciable reduction was observed for color. Chemical treatment with polyelectrolyte and poly‐aluminum chloride (PAC) exerted significant polishing impact on preliminary settling effluent, achieving almost complete removal of TSS, down to 60 mg L−1, additional COD reduction to a final level of 335 mg L−1. Moreover, color could be removed below 7.0 m−1 for all absorbance levels of 436, 525, and 630 nm tested in the experiments.

CONCLUSION

The integrated physical–chemical pre‐treatment scheme proved to be an effective and reliable approach, yielding an effluent free of TSS and color, with a COD level that can easily be eliminated through biological treatment. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Catalyst‐free one‐pot regioselective synthesis of benzo[d]imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazoles by heating or grinding
Authors: Meena Kalawati , Saroha Mohit , Khurana Ishani , Malik Amita , Rai Pramod K. , Khurana Jitender M.
Published: September 2019

Eco‐friendly, efficient, and simple one‐pot catalyst‐free new procedures have been reported for the synthesis of benzo[d]imidazo[2,1‐b]thiazoles by condensation of phenylglyoxal, cyclic enolizable carbonyl compounds, and 2‐aminobenzothiazole at 80°C or by grinding the components at room temperature in glycerol. Cyclic enolizable carbonyl compounds employed in the protocol include dimedone, cyclohexa‐1,3‐dione, cyclopenta‐1,3‐dione, 5‐methylcyclohexa‐1,3‐dione, and 4‐hydroxy‐6‐methyl‐2‐pyrone. All the reactions were complete in ~30 min. The structures of all the products were confirmed by spectral data. The structures of compounds IVl and IVe have also been confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic studies. This protocol offers advantages such as short reaction time, easy workup, high yields and an environmentally benign methodology.
Long‐term outcome of methylmalonic aciduria after kidney, liver, or combined liver‐kidney transplantation: The French experience
Authors: Brassier Anaïs , Krug Pauline , Lacaille Florence , Pontoizeau Clément , Krid Saoussen , Sissaoui Samira , Servais Aude , Arnoux Jean‐Baptiste , Legendre Christophe , Charbit Marina , Scemla Anne , Francoz Claire , Benoist Jean‐François , Schiff Manuel , Mochel Fanny , Touati Guy , Broué Pierre , Cano Aline , Tardieu Marine , Querciagrossa Stefania , Grévent David , Boyer Olivia , Dupic Laurent , Oualha Mehdi , Girard Muriel , Aigrain Yves , Debray Dominique , Capito Carmen , Ottolenghi Chris , Salomon Rémi , Chardot Christophe , de Lonlay Pascale
Published: September 2019

Organ transplantation is discussed in methylmalonic aciduria (MMA) for renal failure, and poor quality of life and neurological outcome. We retrospectively evaluated 23 French MMA patients after kidney (KT), liver‐kidney (LKT), and liver transplantation (LT). Two patients died, one after LKT, one of hepatoblastoma after KT. One graft was lost early after KT. Of 18 evaluable patients, 12 previously on dialysis, 8 underwent KT (mean 12.5 years), 8 LKT (mean 7 years), and 2 LT (7 and 2.5 years). At a median follow‐up of 7.3 (KT), 2.3 (LKT), and 1.0 years (LT), no metabolic decompensation occurred except in 1 KT. Plasma and urine MMA levels dramatically decreased, more after LKT. Protein intake was increased more significantly after LKT than KT. Enteral nutrition was stopped in 7/8 LKT, 1/8 KT. Early complications were frequent after LKT. Neurological disorders occurred in four LKT, reversible in one. Five years after KT, four patients had renal failure. The metabolic outcomes were much better after LKT than KT. LKT in MMA is difficult but improves the quality of life. KT will be rarely indicated. We need more long‐term data to indicate early LT, in the hope to delay renal failure and prevent neurodevelopmental complications.
“In‐loop” carbonylation—A simplified method for carbon‐11 labelling of drugs and radioligands
Authors: Ferrat Mélodie , Dahl Kenneth , Halldin Christer , Schou Magnus
Published: September 2019

Transition‐metal mediated carbonylation with 11C‐labelled carbon monoxide ([11C]CO) is a versatile method for introducing 11C (t1/2 = 20.3 min) into drugs and radioligands for subsequent use in positron emission tomography (PET). The aim of the current study was to perform the 11C‐carbonylation reaction on the interior surface of a stainless‐steel loop used for high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In the experimental setup, cyclotron produced 11C‐labelled carbon dioxide ([11C]CO2) was converted to [11C]CO by reduction over heated Molybdenum and swept into an HPLC loop pre‐charged with the appropriate reaction mixture. Following a 5 min reaction, the radiochemical purity (RCP) and the trapping efficiency (TE) of the reaction mixture was determined. After optimization, [11C]N‐Benzylbenzamide was obtained in quantitative radiochemical yield (RCY) following a 5 min reaction at room temperature. The methodology was further applied to label [11C]benzoic acid (RCP≥99%, TE>91%), [11C]methyl benzoate (RCP≥99%, TE>93%) and [11C]phthalide (RCP≥99%, TE>88%). A set of pharmaceuticals was finally radiolabelled using non‐optimized conditions. Excellent yields were obtained for the histamine‐3 receptor radioligand [11C]AZ13198083, the oncology drug [11C]olaparib and the dopamine D2 receptor radioligand [11C]raclopride, whereas a moderate yield was observed for the high‐affinity dopamine D2 receptor radioligand [11C]FLB457. The presented “in‐loop” process proved efficient for diverse 11C‐carbonylations, providing [11C]amides, [11C]esters and [11C]carboxylic acids in moderate to excellent RCYs. Based on the advantages associated with performing the radiolabelling step as an integrated part of the purification system, this methodology may become a valuable addition to the toolbox of methodologies used for 11C‐carbonylation of drugs and radioligands for PET.
Large neutral amino acid status in association with P:T ratio and diet in adult and pediatric patients with phenylketonuria
Authors: Douglas Teresa D. , Nucci Anita M. , Berry Ann M. , Henes Sarah T. , Singh Rani H.
Published: September 2019

Background

Intake of large neutral amino acids (LNAA) may inhibit phenylalanine (PHE) transport across the blood brain barrier and assist with blood PHE control in patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). We evaluated the interrelationship between LNAA in plasma and diet on Phe:Tyr (P:T) ratio in patients with PKU and the influence of dietary factors on plasma LNAA markers.

Methods

Plasma amino acid values and 3‐day food record analysis from two studies (34 male/30 female; age 4.6‐47 years) were examined. For pediatrics (<18 years) and adults (≥18 years) the relationship between P:T ratio, plasma LNAA, and dietary intake patterns were investigated.

Results

Dietary factors influencing P:T ratio included intake of total protein (g/kg), medical food (MF) protein (g/kg, % below Rx), and LNAA (g) in the full cohort (P < .05). Associations were found between plasma valine and other dietary and plasma LNAA in pediatrics (P < .05) and plasma LNAA with dietary LNAA intake in adults (P = .019). Plasma P:T ratio was inversely associated with plasma LNAA concentrations in both age groups (P < .05). Aside from histidine in pediatrics (P = .024), plasma LNAA did not differ by having plasma PHE levels within or above the therapeutic range (120‐360 μmol/L). Plasma LNAA in both age groups was similar to reported healthy control values.

Conclusion

P:T ratio is significantly tied to dietary LNAA, adherence to MF Rx, and plasma LNAA concentrations. Additionally, P:T ratio and valine may be effective clinical proxies for determining LNAA metabolic balance and LNAA quality of the diet in patients with PKU.
So far, so good: Up to now, the challenge–hindrance framework describes a practical and accurate distinction
Authors: O'Brien Kimberly E. , Beehr Terry A.
Published: September 2019

There are many ways to categorize work‐related stressors, and in recent years, a common distinction in occupational health psychology is between stressors viewed as challenges versus hindrances. Is this a useful conceptualization that provides practical and theoretical implications for IO psychologists? As Kurt Lewin famously prescribed, “there is nothing so practical as a good theory,” and we discuss the challenge–hindrance framework as a developing theory that can be useful for researchers and practitioners. We note that some of the early thinking and development of the challenge–hindrance distinction relied on both resource and appraisal theories of stress. Overall, we find that the challenge–hindrance distinction can be viewed as a framework that is useful by producing interesting, valuable, and innovative research. Simply striving to find meaningful and useful categorizations of stressors can lead us to discover new insights into the occupational stress domain, and the challenge–hindrance categories have already spurred a great deal of research.
Time‐resolved assessment of drying plants by Brillouin and Raman spectroscopies
Authors: Rakymzhan A. , Yakupov T. , Yelemessova Z. , Bukasov R. , Yakovlev V.V. , Utegulov Z.N.
Published: September 2019

Raman and Brillouin spectroscopies enable noninvasive assessment of chemical and elastic properties of biomaterials, respectively. In this report, Brillouin microspectroscopy was used for the time‐resolved analysis of elastic properties of Populus and Geranium leaves, whereas Raman microspectroscopy was employed for the assessment of their chemical variation during drying. Spectroscopic assessment of elastic and chemical properties can improve our understanding of mechanochemical changes of plants in response to environmental stress and pathogens at the microscopic cellular level. This report demonstrates the potential of multimodal optical sensing and imaging of plants as an emerging technique for the quantitative assessment of agricultural crops.
Enhanced microbial respiration due to carbon sequestration in pruning litter incorporated soil reduced the net carbon dioxide flux from atmosphere to tea ecosystem
Authors: Pramanik Prabhat , Phukan Manabjyoti
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Tea (Camellia sinensisL.) bushes are periodically (at 3–4 year intervals) pruned (cut from top) to maintain vegetative growth stage and constant height. Plant residues (prunings litter) generated after pruning are generally left in the field as a potential source of organic matter in soil. Organic carbon (C) sequestration due to pruning litter incorporation is expected to increase microbial activity in soil. Being an evergreen plant, tea bushes assimilate atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) throughout the year; however, the relation between decomposition of pruning litters and net CO2flux for tea plantation have not been studied before. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the relation between organic C accumulation and microbial respiration in pruning litters incorporated soil and its subsequent effect on the net CO2flux from the atmosphere to tea plantation.

RESULTS

Tea bushes assimilated 1878.2–2371.2 kg CO2ha−1from the atmosphere within December to November; however, pruned bushes assimilated 1451.7–1840.8 kg CO2ha−1within the same period. Decomposition of pruning litters added organic matter in soil, which was mostly accumulated in larger soil aggregates having 2.0–0.25 mm size. Such organic matter accumulation significantly increased microbial respiration in those aggregates, which in turn increased the overall rate of CO2emission from soil to the atmosphere.

CONCLUSION

Decomposition of pruning litters leads to emission of 426.5–530.4 kg CO2ha−1from soil. Hence, pruned areas recorded relatively lower (16.0–27.4%) net CO2flux from the atmosphere to tea ecosystem as compared to unpruned tea bushes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Nature of optical products inverted semianalytically from remote sensing reflectance of stratified waters
Authors: Lee Zhongping , Shang Shaoling , Wang Yongchao , Wei Jianwei , Ishizaka Joji
Published: September 2019

Analytical expressions between inherent optical properties (IOPs) retrieved using semi‐analytical algorithms (SAAs) and the vertical distributions of IOPs are derived based on an analytical model for subsurface remote sensing reflectance (rrs). These expressions provide a theoretical and comprehensive understanding of the inverted IOPs for stratified waters and lay the foundation to obtain equivalent products from profiling measurements for apple‐to‐apple comparison of the remotely sensed properties. It is found that the backscattering coefficient (bb) derived from an rrs spectrum via an SAA is governed by rrs in the longer wavelengths, consequently the inverted bb has less (or negligible) contributions from deeper depths, such as the subsurface chlorophyll maximum. In addition, the inverted bb spectrum does not have the spectral feature of the vertically weighted average bb. The SAA‐derived absorption coefficients, on the other hand, are found related to both the weighting profile at the wavelength of interest and the weighting profile in the longer wavelength(s). As a result, the absorption coefficients in the shorter wavelengths inverted from a perfect SAA are generally lower (can be 40% or more) than its vertically weighted average unless the surface layer dominates the diffuse attenuation of light. Furthermore, unlike the historical perception of remotely sensed chlorophyll concentration (Chl) for stratified waters, SAA‐derived Chl is also sensitive to the vertical profile of bb and tends to be lower than its vertically weighted average assuming perfect bio‐optical relationships, unless surface properties dominate the water column.
Pyranine‐Modified Amphiphilic Polymer Conetworks as Fluorescent Ratiometric pH Sensors
Authors: Ulrich Sebastian , Osypova Alina , Panzarasa Guido , Rossi René M. , Bruns Nico , Boesel Luciano F.
Published: September 2019

The fluorescent dye 8‐hydroxypyrene‐1,3,6‐trisulfonate (pyranine) combines high photostability with ratiometric pH detection in the physiological range, making it a prime candidate for optical sensors in biomedical applications, such as pH‐based chronic wound monitoring. However, pyranine's high water solubility and the difficulty of covalent attachment pose severe limitations in terms of leaching from sensor matrices. Herein, pyranine‐modified nanophase‐separated amphiphilic polymer conetworks (APCNs) are reported as fluorescent ratiometric pH sensors. The thin, freestanding APCN membranes composed of one hydrophilic and one hydrophobic polymer provide an optically transparent, flexible, and stable ideal matrix that enables contact between dye and aqueous environment. An active ester‐based conjugation approach results in a highly homogeneous and stable pyranine modification of the APCN's hydrophilic phase. This concept effectively solves the leaching challenge for pyranine without compromising its functionality, which is demonstrated by ratiometric pH detection in the range of pH 5–9.
Proposal to monitor people with MI to predict violence sparks field outcry
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2019

Following a recently announced proposal by the Trump administration to create a new research arm within the proposed Health Advanced Research Projects Agency (HARPA), mental health and disability rights advocacy groups banded together on a preliminary conference call last week to weigh concerns and discuss potential steps should this proposal move forward.
Pullback attractors for non‐autonomous porous elastic system with nonlinear damping and sources terms
Authors: Freitas Mirelson M.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we study the asymptotic behavior of a non‐autonomous porous elastic systems with nonlinear damping and sources terms. By employing nonlinear semigroups and the theory of monotone operators, we establish existence and uniqueness of weak and strong solutions. We also prove the existence of minimal pullback attractors with respect to a universe of tempered sets defined by the sources terms. Finally, we prove the upper‐semicontinuity of pullback attractors with respect to non‐autonomous perturbations.
On the potential use of dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI parameters as radiomic features of cervical cancer
Authors: Lu Yi , Peng Wenwen , Song Jiao , Chen Tao , Wang Xue , Hou Zujun , Yan Zhihan , Koh Tong San
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To evaluate whether the analysis of high‐temporal resolution DCE‐MRI by various tracer kinetic models could yield useful radiomic features in discriminating cervix carcinoma and normal cervix tissue.

Methods

Forty‐three patients (median age 51 yr; range 26–78 yr) diagnosed with cervical cancer based on postoperative pathology were enrolled in this study with informed consent. DCE‐MRI data with temporal resolution of 2 s were acquired and analyzed using the Tofts (TOFTS), extended Tofts (EXTOFTS), conventional two‐compartment (CC), adiabatic tissue homogeneity (ATH), and distributed parameter (DP) models. Ability of all kinetic parameters in distinguishing tumor from normal tissue was assessed using Mann–Whitney U test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Repeatability of parameter estimates due to sampling of arterial input functions (AIFs) was also studied using intraclass correlation (ICC) analysis.

Results

Fractional extravascular, extracellular volume (Ve) of all models were significantly smaller in cervix carcinoma than normal cervix tissue, and were associated with large values of area under ROC curve (AUC 0.884–0.961). Capillary permeability PS derived from the ATH, CC, and DP models also yielded large AUC values (0.730, 0.860, and 0.797). Transfer constant Ktrans derived from TOFTS and EXTOFTS models yielded smaller AUC (0.587 and 0.701). Repeatability of parameters derived from all models was robust to AIF sampling, with ICC coefficients typically larger than 0.80.

Conclusions

With the use of high‐temporal resolution DCE‐MRI, all tracer kinetic models could reflect pathophysiological differences between cervix carcinoma and normal tissue (with significant differences in Ve and PS) and potentially yield radiomic features with diagnostic value.
Integrating normative values and/in value creation: A strategic management decision aid tool for social enterprises' values practices
Authors: Michaud Valérie , Tello‐Rozas Sonia
Published: September 2019

Normative values are one of the most central motives for the creation of nonprofits and social enterprises. Nevertheless, their actual role in the management of these organizations has been little explored. Furthermore, the social enterprise literature has typically approached the concept of value from a value creation perspective. This paper looks at the role played by normative values in the strategic management decisions of a nonprofit social enterprise and unpacks the dynamics between the enactment of these values and the creation of social and economic value. In terms of practical implications, this research allows for proposal of a value‐based, strategic management decision aid tool that emerged from the in‐depth, longitudinal study of a work integration social enterprise. Our findings suggest that the enactment of normative values can actually feed in economic value creation, which, in turn, allows for strengthened respect of the normative values, thus generating virtuous cycles that ultimately help the organization to find a coherence between its social mission and market.
An exploratory study of pay satisfaction among public sector employees in Jordan
Authors: Athamneh Seif Nasser
Published: September 2019

Pay satisfaction is regarded as an important factor in promoting organizational productivity based on its motivational factor. Accordingly, this research sought to explore pay satisfaction in the Jordanian public sector with an objective of establishing the level of satisfaction among employees. The inquiry is based on the Pay Satisfaction Questionnaire developed by a previous study. Using weighted averages for the analysis of data, this research establishes that the pay satisfaction of the Jordanian public sector employees is relatively low and that employees are less than satisfied with the various pay aspects queried including pay level, benefits, pay raise, and pay structure and administration. This has the implication that the low productivity in the public sector could be as a result of lack of staff motivation due to low pay. The research determines that in average, the 210 participated employees were least satisfied with pay structure and administration, whereas the other factors, namely, benefits, pay raise, and pay structure/administration, achieved an average score.
Proton therapy following induction chemotherapy for pediatric and adolescent nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Uezono Haruka , Indelicato Daniel J. , Rotondo Ronny L. , Sandler Eric S. , Katzenstein Howard M. , Dagan Roi , Mendenhall William M. , Mailhot Vega Raymond , Brennan Bernadette M. , Bradley Julie A.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

In children treated for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, proton therapy and postchemotherapy target volumes can reduce the radiation dose to developing tissue in the brain and the skull base region. We analyzed outcomes in children with nasopharyngeal carcinoma treated with induction chemotherapy followed by moderate‐dose proton therapy.

Methods/Materials

Seventeen patients with nonmetastatic nonkeratinizing undifferentiated/poorly differentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma underwent double‐scattered proton therapy between 2011 and 2017. Median age was 15.3 years (range, 7‐21). The American Joint Committee on Cancer T and N stage distribution included the following: T1, one patient; T2, five patients; T3, two patients; and T4, nine patients; and N1, six patients; N2, nine patients; and N3, two patients. Median radiation dose to the primary target volume and enlarged lymph nodes was 61.2 Gy (range, 59.4‐61.2). Uninvolved cervical nodes received 45 Gy (range, 45‐46.8). All radiation was delivered at 1.8 Gy/fraction daily using sequential plans. In 11 patients, photon‐based intensity‐modulated radiotherapy was used for elective neck irradiation to optimize dose homogeneity and improve target conformity. All patients received induction chemotherapy; all but one received concurrent chemotherapy. Five received adjuvant beta‐interferon therapy.

Results

Median follow‐up was 3.0 years (range, 1.6‐7.9). No patients were lost to follow‐up. Overall survival, progression‐free survival, and local control rates were 100%. Fifteen patients developed mucositis requiring enteral feeding (n = 14) or total parenteral nutrition (n = 1) during radiotherapy. Serious late side effects included cataract (n = 1), esophageal stenosis requiring dilation (n = 1), sensorineural hearing loss requiring aids (n = 1), and hormone deficiency (n = 5, including three with isolated hypothyroidism).

Conclusion

Following induction chemotherapy, moderate‐dose proton therapy can potentially reduce toxicity in the brain and skull base region without compromising disease control. However, further follow‐up is needed to fully characterize and evaluate any reduction in long‐term complications.
Models of care for adolescent and young adult cancer programs
Authors: Osborn Michael , Johnson Rebecca , Thompson Kate , Anazodo Antoinette , Albritton Karen , Ferrari Andrea , Stark Daniel
Published: September 2019

This review draws on the experience of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer clinicians from Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom to summarize common aspects of models of care implemented in their countries. The principles underpinning these models include patient‐ and family‐focused care informed by an understanding of normal AYA development, enhancing existing adult or pediatric cancer services to meet the needs of AYA, and promoting collaboration between pediatric and adult oncologists. Common elements of AYA cancer care include establishing an AYA multidisciplinary team that integrates medical and psychosocial care, efforts to centralize complex care, providing access and equity for all AYA, promoting clinical trials, and helping facilitate transition to healthy survivorship. Several organizational approaches are described, noting that local program development depends on resources, infrastructure, and assessment of unmet needs within the region. The development of national networks provides opportunities for shared learning and approaches to evaluation.
Effect of Xylocaine spray for analgesia during amniocentesis: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Homkrun Panupun , Tongsong Theera , Srisupundit Kasemsri
Published: September 2019

Objective

To compare the effect of Xylocaine spray on pain score during amniocentesis

Methods

Singleton pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis were recruited. Each participant was randomly assigned into three groups. Group 1 (Xylocaine spray): 1 min before the procedure, 8 puffs (80 mg) of 10% Lidocaine spray were sprayed on abdominal wall: group 2 (placebo): 8 puffs of sterile normal saline were sprayed: and group 3 (control): no spray was used. The participants rated their pain through a 10‐cm visual analog scale before, during, and 30 min after amniocentesis. Main outcome of study was difference in pain score among three groups.

Results

A total 570 pregnant women participated; 191 in the Xylocaine group, 193 in placebo group, and 186 in control group. Baseline pain was not different. The median procedural pain score was significantly different (2.3, 3.3, and 2.8 respectively; p 0.001). Post‐hoc analysis showed that the procedural pain score in Xylocaine group was significantly lower than placebo or control group (p value <0.001 and 0.02, respectively). However, the pain score 30 min after procedure was not different.

Conclusion

Xylocaine spray can significantly decrease pain during amniocentesis, however, the clinical significance is unclear given that the procedure‐related discomfort is mild and short‐lived.
A 2‐year review of publicly funded cell‐free DNA screening in Ontario: utilization and adherence to funding criteria
Authors: Bellai‐Dussault Kara , Meng Lynn , Huang Tianhua , Reszel Jessica , Walker Mark , Lanes Andrea , Okun Nan , Armour Christine , Dougan Shelley
Published: September 2019

Objective

Ontario offers a publicly funded modified contingent model of prenatal screening for aneuploidy in which cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) screening is covered for pregnancies at higher risk of fetal aneuploidy. The objective of this study was to review utilization of provincially funded cfDNA screening and adherence to the criteria laid out in Ontario prenatal screening guidelines.

Methods

This was a descriptive cohort study using data collected by Ontario's prescribed maternal and child registry. The study population included all pregnant individuals who received cfDNA screening from January 2016 to December 2017.

Results

The most common criteria for provincially funded cfDNA screening were advanced maternal age ≥40 years (37.7%), positive multiple marker screen (34.1%), modifying risk factors such as ultrasound soft markers (7.1%), and previous aneuploidy (5.5%). The audit demonstrated that 2.9% of funded cfDNA screens tests did not meet funding criteria, and that 11.4% of self‐paid cfDNA screens could have been publicly funded.

Conclusion

Reviewing and auditing the application of criteria for funded cfDNA screening using prescribed registry data allows an opportunity to identify areas where targeted education may improve adherence to standardized screening protocols, and provides a basis for reassessment of the funding model.
Influence of the viscosity of poly(methyl methacrylate) on the cellular structure of nanocellular materials
Authors: León Judith Martín‐de , Bernardo Victoria , Laguna‐Gutiérrez Ester , Rodríguez‐Pérez Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2019

Three different grades of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with different rheological properties are used for the production of nanocellular materials using gas dissolution foaming. The influences of both the viscosity of the different polymers and the processing parameters on the final cellular structure are studied using a wide range of saturation and foaming conditions. Foaming conditions affect similarly all cellular materials. It is found that an increase of the foaming temperature results in less dense nanocellular materials, with higher cell nucleation densities. In addition, it is demonstrated that a lower viscosity leads to cellular polymers with a lower relative density but larger cell sizes and smaller cell nucleation densities, these differences being more noticeable for the conditions in which low solubilities are reached. It is possible to produce nanocellular materials with relative densities of 0.24 combined with cell sizes of 75 nm and cell nucleation densities of 1015nuclei cm−3using the PMMA with the lowest viscosity. In contrast, minimum cell sizes of around 14 nm and maximum cell nucleation densities of 3.5 × 1016nuclei cm−3with relative densities of 0.4 are obtained with the most viscous one. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The Emerging Role of Cytoskeletal Proteins as Reliable Biomarkers
Authors: Klingler‐Hoffmann Manuela , Mittal Parul , Hoffmann Peter
Published: September 2019

Cytoskeletal proteins are essential building blocks of cells. More than 100 cytoskeletal and cytoskeleton‐associated proteins are known and for some, their function and regulation are understood in great detail. Apart from cell shape and support, they facilitate many processes such as intracellular signaling and transport, and cancer related processes such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. During the last decade, comparative proteomic studies have identified cytoskeletal proteins as in vitro markers for tumor progression and metastasis. Here, these results are summarized and a number of unrelated studies are highlighted, identifying the same cytoskeletal proteins as potential biomarkers. These findings might indicate that the abundance of these potential markers of tumor progression is associated with the biological outcome and are independent of the cancer origin. This correlates well with recently published results from the Cancer Genome Atlas, indicating that cancers show remarkable similarities in their analyzed molecular information, independent of their organ of origin. It is postulated that the quantification of cytoskeletal proteins in healthy tissues, tumors, in adjacent tissues, and in stroma, is a great source of molecular information, which might not only be used to classify tumors, but more importantly to predict patients’ outcome or even best treatment choices.
Rock glaciers of the Beartooth and northern Absaroka ranges, Montana, USA
Authors: Seligman Zachary M. , Klene Anna E. , Nelson Frederick E.
Published: September 2019

Six hundred sixty‐one rock glaciers in the northern Absaroka and Beartooth Ranges of south‐central Montana were digitized and evaluated using geographic information systems technology and an array of topographic and environmental parameters. Beartooth rock glaciers are larger, occur at higher elevations, receive more precipitation, and are subject to lower temperatures than northern Absaroka rock glaciers. Elevation is strongly correlated with rock glacier activity. Comparative analysis of these adjacent mountain ranges indicates that Beartooth geomorphic landscapes are shifting from predominantly glacial to periglacial regimes, and that the northern Absarokas have largely completed this transition. Because glaciers are declining in response to climate warming, rock glaciers could soon become the most important source of ice in the region.
Effective targeting of RNA polymerase I in treatment‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Low Jin‐Yih , Sirajuddin Paul , Moubarek Michael , Agarwal Shreya , Rege Apurv , Guner Gunes , Liu Hester , Yang Zhiming , De Marzo Angelo M. , Bieberich Charles , Laiho Marikki
Published: September 2019

Background

Advanced prostate cancers depend on protein synthesis for continued survival and accelerated rates of metabolism for growth. RNA polymerase I (Pol I) is the enzyme responsible for ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transcription and a rate‐limiting step for ribosome biogenesis. We have shown using a specific and sensitive RNA probe for the 45S rRNA precursor that rRNA synthesis is increased in prostate adenocarcinoma compared to nonmalignant epithelium. We have introduced a first‐in‐class Pol I inhibitor, BMH‐21, that targets cancer cells of multiple origins, and holds potential for clinical translation.

Methods

The effect of BMH‐21 was tested in prostate cancer cell lines and in prostate cancer xenograft and mouse genetic models.

Results

We show that BMH‐21 inhibits Pol I transcription in metastatic, castration‐resistant, and enzalutamide treatment‐resistant prostate cancer cell lines. The genetic abrogation of Pol I effectively blocks the growth of prostate cancer cells. Silencing of p53, a pathway activated downstream of Pol I, does not diminish this effect. We find that BMH‐21 significantly inhibited tumor growth and reduced the Ki67 proliferation index in an enzalutamide‐resistant xenograft tumor model. A decrease in 45S rRNA synthesis demonstrated on‐target activity. Furthermore, the Pol I inhibitor significantly inhibited tumor growth and pathology in an aggressive genetically modified Hoxb13‐MYC|Hoxb13‐Cre|Ptenfl/fl (BMPC) mouse prostate cancer model.

Conclusion

Taken together, BMH‐21 is a novel promising molecule for the treatment of castration‐resistant prostate cancer.
The wetting behavior of three different types of aqueous surfactant solutions on housefly (Musca domestica) surfaces
Authors: Wan Qiang , Zhao Jiayi , Li Hao , Li Huan , Wang Chuanwen , Pan Baoliang
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

It is difficult for insecticide spray droplets to adhere to highly hydrophobic pest surfaces, and this is an important reason behind the low utilization of pesticides. Greater understanding of the wetting behaviors of agro‐surfactants on pest surfaces is of great importance in pesticidal applications.

RESULTS

This research investigated the wetting processes of three surfactant solutions [TritonX‐100 (TX‐100), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and dodecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB)] on housefly surfaces based on surface tension, contact angles and solid–liquid interaction. As the surfactant concentration increased, the wetting abilities of the solutions improved due a decrease in liquid surface tension. The decrease in contact angles followed an inverted ‘S’ shape until the concentration exceeded the critical micelle concentration, at which point surfactant adsorption was saturated at the interfaces. The nonionic surfactant TX‐100 enhanced wettability more than the ionic surfactants SDS and DTAB. The wetting states of the three surfactant solutions on housefly surfaces transformed to the Wenzel state when the surfactant molecules adsorbed at solid–liquid interfaces (ΓSL) were 3.09–5.36 times higher than those adsorbed at liquid–air interfaces (ΓLV). More insecticides attached to housefly surfaces and pesticide utilization was significantly improved after adding TX‐100 to the pesticide solution.

CONCLUSION

Surfactant TX‐100 could be a practical and efficient candidate adjuvant for insecticide spraying of houseflies. This research investigated the wetting mechanism of three different types of surfactant solutions on housefly surfaces, and could provide effective guidance for the preparation of insecticide formulations and pesticide adjuvants with better wettability to improve pesticide utilization. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Sugar, gravel, fish and flowers: Mesoscale cloud patterns in the trade winds
Authors: Stevens Bjorn , Bony Sandrine , Brogniez Hélène , Hentgen Laureline , Hohenegger Cathy , Kiemle Christoph , L'Ecuyer Tristan S. , Naumann Ann Kristin , Schulz Hauke , Siebesma Pier A. , Vial Jessica , Winker Dave M. , Zuidema Paquita
Published: September 2019

An activity designed to characterise patterns of mesoscale (20 to 2,000 km) organisation of shallow clouds in the downstream trades is described. Patterns of mesoscale organisation observed from space were subjectively defined and learned by 12 trained scientists. The ability of individuals to communicate, learn and replicate the classification was evaluated. Nine‐hundred satellite images spanning the area from 48°W to 58°W, 10°N to 20°N for the boreal winter months (December–February) over 10 years (2007/2008 to 2016/2017) were classified. Each scene was independently labelled by six scientists as being dominated by one of six patterns (one of which was “no‐pattern”). Four patterns of mesoscale organisation could be labelled in a reproducible manner, and were labelled Sugar, Gravel, Fish and Flowers. Sugar consists of small, low clouds of low reflectivity, Gravel clouds form along apparent gust fronts, Fish are skeletal networks (often fishbone‐like) of clouds, while Flowers are circular clumped features defined more by their stratiform cloud elements. Both Fish and Flowers are surrounded by large areas of clear air. These four named patterns were identified 40% of the time, with the most common pattern being Gravel. Sugar was identified the least and suggests that unorganised and very shallow convection is unlikely to dominate large areas of the downstream trade winds. Some of the patterns show signs of seasonal and interannual variability, and some degree of scale selectivity. Comparison of typical patterns with radar imagery suggests that even this subjective and qualitative visual inspection of imagery appears to capture several important physical differences between shallow cloud regimes, such as precipitation and radiative effects.
Mitigating and comparing the striping noise in FengYun‐3B/C/D microwave radiation imager brightness temperature observations
Authors: Dong H. , Zou X.
Published: September 2019

The Microwave Radiation Imager (MWRI) on board the FengYun‐3 (FY‐3) series of satellites can provide global observations four times daily, which significantly improves the ability to monitor large‐scale natural disasters. There is noticeable striping noise in brightness temperature observations from the MWRIs on board the FY‐3B, FY‐3C and FY‐3D satellites. The central frequencies of all MWRI channels are in the atmospheric window region. In this article, a modified principal component analysis/ensemble empirical mode decomposition method proposed by Zou et al. in 2017 was applied to deal with the striping noise in MWRI measurements. Results reveal that the magnitude of the striping noise in the brightness temperature observations of MWRI channels 10 are about ±1.2 K for FY‐3B, ±1.1 K for FY‐3C and ± 0.8 K for FY3D. The striping noise in FY‐3D MWRI measurements is significantly reduced, compared with the striping noise in FY‐3B and FY‐3C MWRI measurements. Striping features will appear in the liquid water path (LWP) distribution if LWP is retrieved from brightness temperatures without removing the striping noise. The differences between LWP retrieved from the MWRI observations with and without striping noise mitigation could be as large as 0.07 kg·m−2. It is thus necessary to remove striping noise before any MWRI data applications.
NaBH4In‐situ Reduced Cobalt Catalyst Supported on Zeolite A for 1‐Hexene Hydroformylation
Authors: Fang Yuan , Guo Lisheng , Cui Yu , Zhang Peipei , Yoneyama Yoshiharu , Yang Guohui , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: September 2019

Zeolite A with different pore sizes (3 A, 4 A and 5 A) were selected as supports for preparing a series of cobalt catalysts through wetness impregnation method, using NaBH4 as an in‐situ reducing agent, but without further reduction. X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) confirmed the reduction of cobalt. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed that the cobalt nanoparticles were formed evenly on the zeolite structure by our rapid synthesis method. The catalytic activity of the prepared catalysts was investigated for the hydroformylation of 1‐hexene. Benefiting from the spatial confinement effect derived from the unique topology structure of zeolite A and the low temperature in‐situ reduction contributed by NaBH4, the conversion of 1‐hexene to C7 aldehyde with a significantly enhanced normal heptanal selectivity (normal/iso ratio of 1.93) was achieved. The present study provides a rapid and effective way for the synthesis of zeolite supported cobalt catalysts for the hydroformylation of 1‐hexene.
3D Cadmium(II)‐Based Coordination Polymer Constructed from V‐Shaped Semirigid Ligand: Selective Detection of Oxoanion Pollutants CrO42–, Cr2O72–, MnO4– in Water
Authors: Wang Yan‐Ning , Wang Shao‐Dan , Gao Yan‐Mei , Yang Lu‐Lu , Xie Lan‐Xin
Published: September 2019

A new coordination polymer (CP), namely, [Cd(HL)(4,4′‐bipy)] (1) (H3L = 4‐(5‐carboxy‐pyridine‐3‐yloxy)‐phthalic acid, 4,4′‐bipy = 4,4′‐bipyridine), was synthesized employing a V‐shaped asymmetric tricarboxylic acid ligand under hydrothermal condition. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis indicates that compound 1 exhibits a novel three‐dimensional (3D) framework with (3, 5)‐connected (63)(69·8) topology. Meanwhile, it shows high selectivity and sensitivity for oxoanion pollutants CrO42–, Cr2O72–, and MnO4– anions in aqueous solutions with detection limits of 4.12 × 10–6 M, 1.75 × 10–6 M, and 6.47 × 10–7 M, respectively. The high selectivity and low detection limit indicate that the compound is promising functional luminescence probe for CrO42–, Cr2O72–, and MnO4–. The mechanisms of the quenching effect and sensing properties were discussed in detail.
Introduction to Healthy Minds: Mental Health Practice and Perception in the Twentieth Century
Authors: Taylor Steven J. , Brumby Alice
Published: September 2019

This chapter introduces and broadly explores some of the changes and continuities in practice and perception of mental health care across the long twentieth century. It considers the changing role of health care professionals and the broadening and diversifying role of policymakers that served to open new spaces and centres for creating healthy minds. The chapter engages with the shifting arguments about what it meant to have a ‘healthy’ mind and the myriad of areas into which mental health and psychiatry have penetrated, which is also an overarching theme for the volume.
‘The Holy War Against Alcohol’: Alcoholism, Medicine and Psychiatry in Ireland, c. 1890–1921
Authors: Mauger Alice
Published: September 2019

Centring on medical discourses and asylum records, this chapter explores the evolution of frameworks and treatment for alcohol-related admissions to Irish asylums from the 1890s until the creation of the Irish Free State in 1922. This study marks a new departure in the history of alcohol misuse in Ireland. It also contributes to international discourses surrounding the role of medicine and particularly psychiatry, in understanding and treating alcoholism. As will be argued, while problem drinking was very much on the medical agenda internationally during this period, in Ireland it became imbued with a discrete set of cultural and political ideas.
Autism in the Twentieth Century: An Evolution of a Controversial Condition
Authors: O’Reilly Michelle , Lester Jessica Nina , Kiyimba Nikki
Published: September 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (i.e. autism) is clinically conceptualised as a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition diagnosed by examining impairments in communication, social interaction, and a rigidity in thinking. The twentieth century was an important one for autism as it was labelled and classified during this time, along with a rise of many different voices and perspectives regarding its classification as a psychiatric disability. On one hand, great advancements have been made in terms of understanding the condition, the aetiology, and treatments, and on the other, there has been a rise of critical thinking and political issues for the inclusion agenda. This chapter discusses these movements and changes in thinking.
Gravitino vs. neutralino LSP at the LHC
Authors: Kim Jong Soo , Pokorski Stefan , Rolbiecki Krzysztof , Sakurai Kazuki
Published: September 2019

Abstract

Using the latest LHC data, we analyse and compare the lower limits on the masses of gluinos and the lightest stop in two natural supersymmetric motivated scenarios: one with a neutralino being the lightest supersymmetric particle (LSP) and the other one with gravitino as the LSP and neutralino as the next-to-lightest supersymmetric particle. In the second case our analysis applies to neutralinos promptly decaying to very light gravitinos, which are of cosmological interest, and are generic for low, of order

$$ \mathcal{O} $$

O

(100) TeV, messenger scale in gauge mediation models. We find that the lower bounds on the gluino and the lightest stop masses are stronger for the gravitino LSP scenarios due to the extra handle from the decay products of neutralinos. Generally, in contrast to the neutralino LSP case the limits now extend to a region of compressed spectrum. In bino scenarios the highest excluded stop mass increases from 1000 GeV to almost 1400 GeV. Additionally, in the higgsino-like NLSP scenario the higgsinos below 650 GeV are universally excluded and the stop mass limit is

$$ {m}_{\tilde{t}} $$

m

t
˜

> 1150 GeV, whereas there is no limit on stops in the higgsino LSP model for

$$ {m}_{\tilde{h}} $$

m

h
˜

= 650 GeV. Nevertheless, we find that the low messenger scale still ameliorates the fine tuning in the electroweak potential.