bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significant association between RETN genetic polymorphisms and alcohol‐induced osteonecrosis of femoral head
Authors: Liu Chang , An Feimeng , Cao Yuju , Wang Jiaqi , Tian Ye , Wu Huiqiang , Wang Jianzhong
Published: June 2019

Background

Alcohol‐induced osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH) is a complex disease and genetic factors are one of the causes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of RETN (resistin; OMIM: 605565) and LDLR (low density lipoprotein receptor; OMIM: 606945) polymorphisms on the risk of alcohol‐induced ONFH in Chinese Han population.

Methods

A case–control study including 201 patients and 201 controls was designed. Seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in RETN gene and four SNPs in LDLR gene were genotyped using Agena MassARRAY platform. In allele model and genetic model, chi‐square test and logistic regression were used to study the associations between these SNPs and ONFH susceptibility. In addition, the relationships between these SNPs, clinical phenotypes, and blood lipid level with one‐way analysis of variance were analyzed.

Results

In the allele model, rs7408174 and rs3745369 in RETN were associated with increased risk of alcohol‐induced ONFH, whereas rs34861192 and rs3219175 in RETN showed reduced risk of alcohol‐induced ONFH. In the genetic model, rs7408174 was associated with increased risk of alcohol‐induced ONFH in dominant model and log‐additive model. Rs3745369 showed an increased risk in codominant model, recessive model, and log‐additive model. Rs34861192 showed a decreased risk in codominant model, dominant model, and log‐additive model, and rs3219175 showed a decreased risk in dominant model and log‐additive model. The rs3745368 in RETN was associated with the clinical stage of the disease.

Conclusion

These results suggest that RETN genetic polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility of alcohol‐induced ONFH in Chinese Han population.
Psychiatrists' acceptance of Medicaid remains low, and continues to decline
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2019

Access to physicians in all health care categories poses a problem for Medicaid beneficiaries, but a research letter published this month highlights the disproportionate challenge in identifying psychiatric services for this population.
Novel intervention helps children, youth with coping skills
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

Given the current mental health workforce shortage coupled with the high prevalence of depression and anxiety in youth, an evidence‐based therapy program delivered in the community and colleges is helping children, teenagers and young adults “cope” with mental health challenges.
Teen Mental Health First Aid expands to 20 additional schools
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

The National Council for Behavioral Health and Lady Gaga, co‐founder of the Born This Way Foundation, on June 11 announced that teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA), a new peer‐to‐peer program to support young people during a time of crisis, is expanding to 20 additional high schools.
The safety and benefit of using oxidized regenerated cellulose to position free flap pedicle in head and neck reconstruction
Authors: Hsieh Yu‐Hsuan , Yang Kuo‐Chung , Liu Wen‐Chung , Kao Chia‐Chen , Chen Lee‐Wei , Lin Cheng‐Ta
Published: June 2019

Background

Oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC; Surgicel®; Ethicon, Neuchâtel, Switzerland) is an absorbable hemostatic agent used for hemostasis in operation, although some surgeons use it to position free flap pedicles. The increasing risk of vessel compromise is a huge concern. However, no scientific data to date demonstrate the safety and benefit of using ORC in microvascular surgery. In the present study, we compared the outcome of microvascular head and neck reconstruction with and without pedicle placement using ORC.

Materials and Methods

From January 2015 to December 2017, we reviewed patients undergoing microvascular surgery with free fibular osteocutaneous flap in our hospital. The patients were divided into the ORC group and non‐ORC group and their baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared.

Results

In total, there were 27 patients in the ORC group and 67 in the non‐ORC group. The non‐ORC group had significantly higher cigarette consumption (70.4% vs. 89.6%; p = .022). The outcome of the ORC group was better regarding arterial thrombosis (0% vs. 3%), flap failure (0% vs. 4.5%), hematoma (7.4% vs. 10.4%), and wound complications (25.9% vs. 44.8%). The ORC group had a worse result than the non‐ORC group for vein thrombosis (7.4% vs. 4.5%) and duration of hospitalization (24.111 days vs. 23.627 days). However, none of above results was significant.

Conclusions

Though this study was underpowered to detect the differences, the results showed a trend toward better outcomes of flaps and wounds in the ORC group. It seems that using ORC in this field is safe and beneficial.
Wide frequency switchable microwave resonator by injecting eutectic gallium indium into microfluidic defected ground structure
Authors: Kim Yelim , Lim Daecheon , Park Euiyong , Tentzeris Manos M. , Lim Sungjoon
Published: June 2019

This article proposes a frequency switchable microwave resonator based on a microfluidic defected ground structure (m‐DGS) that provides wider frequency tuning ratio. Because its resonant frequency is determined from the DGS geometry, the resonant frequency can be switched by injecting EGaIn liquid metal into the m‐DGS to decrease the effective inductance and hence increase resonant frequency to 7.7 GHz from 3 GHz, that is, 88% tuning range. The proposed idea is demonstrated numerically and experimentally.
Frequency invariance, gain improvement, and fast design in 3D‐printed photonic band gap antennas with quadratic holes
Authors: de Andrade Betoven O. , de Mendonca Laercio M.
Published: June 2019

The use of photonic band gap (PBG) substrates with noncylindrical holes in microstrip antennas is little reported in the literature. In this article, a 3D printer was used to produce two PBG antennas in acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS) substrate: one with cylindrical holes and the other with quadratic prism holes, both with the same volume in the holes and in the total composition. The proposed PBG antenna with quadratic prism holes maintains the same resonance frequency of antenna with cylindrical holes, that is, 2.64 GHz. In addition, the proposed antenna greatly reduces the project time in the simulation phase, which is very onerous in conventional PBG antennas. The PBG antennas improved the distribution of surface current and increased the gain in relation to the antenna without PBG. Thus, the obtained results were as follows: the gain and efficiency of radiation were 3.75 dB and 55% for the antenna without PBG, 4.5 dB and 60% for the antenna with cylindrical holes, and 5 dB and 62% for the antenna with quadratic holes. All antennas maintained an approximate bandwidth of 3%. These antennas were built, simulated, and measured. A schematic of the build structures, return loss, Smith's chart, radiation diagrams, and computational simulation time was analyzed throughout this article.
To Change a Donor's Mind … Get Your Mind Right
Authors: Case Benjamin R.
Published: June 2019

A donor responds with no to your request for a gift increase. Another donor calls to express their deep unhappiness with a recent decision by your nonprofit. Then comes an email from a donor who is offended by what was written in a recent solicitation sent by your nonprofit—and that donor is the chairperson of your board!
Longitudinal preclinical magnetic resonance imaging of diffuse tumor burden in intramedullary myeloma following bortezomib therapy
Authors: Hathi Deep K. , Engelbach John A. , Hillengass Jens , Veis Deborah , Achilefu Samuel , Garbow Joel R. , Shokeen Monica
Published: June 2019

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a largely incurable, debilitating hematologic malignancy of terminally differentiated plasma cells in the bone marrow (BM). Identification of therapeutic response is critical for improving outcomes and minimizing costs and off‐target toxicities. To assess changes in BM environmental factors and therapy efficacy, there is a need for noninvasive, nonionizing, longitudinal, preclinical methods.

Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of preclinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for longitudinal imaging of diffuse tumor burden in a syngeneic, immunocompetent model of intramedullary MM. C57Bl/KaLwRij mice were implanted intravenously with 5TGM1‐GFP tumors and treated with a proteasome inhibitor, bortezomib, or vehicle control. MRI was performed weekly with a Helmholtz radiofrequency coil placed on the hind leg. Mean normalized T1‐weighted signal intensities and T2 relaxation times were quantified for each animal following manual delineation of BM regions in the femur and tibia. Finally, tumor burden was quantified for each tissue using hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Changes in T2 relaxation times correlated strongly to cell density and overall tumor burden in the BM. Median T2 relaxation times and regional T1‐weighted contrast uptake were shown to be most relevant in identifying posttherapy disease stage in this model of intramedullary MM.

In summary, our results highlighted potential preclinical MRI markers for assessing tumor burden and BM heterogeneity following bortezomib therapy, and demonstrated the application of longitudinal imaging with preclinical MRI in an immunocompetent, intramedullary setting.
An urban medical system's exploratory study of medication errors
Authors: Morelock Skip G. , Kirk Jeffrey D.
Published: June 2019

Aims

This study sought to identify patterns of medication errors with respect to shifts, day of week, unit involved, severity, medication class and cause of errors and to propose possible solutions.

Design

This was a retrospective explorative study using a database containing 605 medication events from two medical centres. Variables assessed include medication type, the error severity, and time the medication was ordered, the unit that the error occurred on and the day of the week of the errors.

Methods

Simple percentages were used to report the results, and point‐biserial correlation was employed to test for significant differences between the day and night shifts.

Results

There were no statistically significant findings when comparing event severity against the a.m. or p.m. shifts. The medication classes with the most errors were antibiotics, and the most common reason cited for errors was dose omission. The most commonly reported severity level was a 2 which requires increased patient monitoring.
The local ultraconvergence of high‐order finite element method for second‐order elliptic problems with constant coefficients over a rectangular partition
Authors: He Wen‐ming
Published: June 2019

In this article, we will discuss the local ultraconvergence of high‐degree finite element method based on a rectangular partition for the second‐degree elliptic problem with constant coefficients in Ω ⊂ ℜ2, u(y) = 0 on ∂Ω. Based on suitable regularity, ultraconvergence of the displacement of the extrapolated kth (k ≥ 3) degree finite element solution has been obtained by an extrapolation technique. Finally, numerical experiments are applied to demonstrate our theoretical findings.
Steroid Hormones in Cord Blood Mediate the Association Between Maternal Prepregnancy BMI and Birth Weight
Authors: Jin Shuna , Sun Xiaojie , Liu Qi , Liang Huifang , Li Chunhui , Mao Zhenxing , Song Chengwu , Xia Wei , Li Yuanyuan , Xu Shunqing
Published: June 2019

Objective

Maternal overweight has been associated with increasing offspring birth weight, but epidemiological data on potential biological mechanisms are limited. This study aimed to examine whether steroid hormones mediate the association between maternal prepregnancy BMI (pre‐BMI) and birth weight.

Methods

This study involving 2,039 participants was conducted from an ongoing cohort study in Wuhan, China. Mediation analysis was used to identify the extent to which steroid hormones mediated associations.

Results

Each one‐unit increase in pre‐BMI was significantly associated with lower log2‐transformed cord blood levels of cortisol and corticosterone. Levels of cortisol and corticosterone were also negatively associated with birth weight. It was estimated that corticosterone mediated 3.48% of the association between pre‐BMI and birth weight, and no significant mediation effect was observed in cortisol. After stratification by maternal gestational weight gain (GWG; within or in excess of the Institute of Medicine [IOM] guidelines), the associations of pre‐BMI with cortisol and corticosterone levels were significant in the women with GWG > IOM but not in women with GWG ≤ IOM. When the mediation analysis in the women with GWG > IOM was limited, the mediation effects of cord blood cortisol and corticosterone were both significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Cord blood cortisol and corticosterone partially mediate the association of increased maternal pre‐BMI with higher birth weight.
Metronomic therapy in pediatric oncology: A snapshot
Authors: Pramanik Raja , Bakhshi Sameer
Published: June 2019

Metronomic chemotherapy transitioned from the bench to bedside in the early 2000s and since then has carved a niche for itself in pediatric oncology. It has been used solely or in combination with other modalities such as radiotherapy, maximum tolerated dose chemotherapy, and targeted agents in adjuvant, palliative, as well as maintenance settings. No wonder, the resulting medical literature is extremely heterogeneous. In this review, the authors review and synthesize the published literature in pediatric metronomics giving a glimpse of its history, varied applications, and evolution of this genre of chemotherapy in pediatric cancers. Limitations, future prospects, and grey areas are also highlighted.
Development and evaluation of a computable phenotype to identify pediatric patients with leukemia and lymphoma treated with chemotherapy using electronic health record data
Authors: Phillips Charles A. , Razzaghi Hanieh , Aglio Taylor , McNeil Michael J. , Salvesen‐Quinn Mikaela , Sopfe Jenna , Wilkes Jennifer J. , Forrest Christopher B. , Bailey L. Charles
Published: June 2019

Background

Widespread implementation of electronic health records (EHR) has created new opportunities for pediatric oncology observational research. Little attention has been given to using EHR data to identify patients with pediatric hematologic malignancies.

Methods

This study used EHR‐derived data in a pediatric clinical data research network, PEDSnet, to develop and evaluate a computable phenotype algorithm to identify pediatric patients with leukemia and lymphoma who received treatment with chemotherapy. To guide early development, multiple computable phenotype‐defined cohorts were compared to one institution's tumor registry. The most promising algorithm was chosen for formal evaluation and consisted of at least two leukemia/lymphoma diagnoses (Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine codes) within a 90‐day period, two chemotherapy exposures, and three hematology‐oncology provider encounters. During evaluation, the computable phenotype was executed against EHR data from 2011 to 2016 at three large institutions. Classification accuracy was assessed by masked medical record review with phenotype‐identified patients compared to a control group with at least three hematology‐oncology encounters.

Results

The computable phenotype had sensitivity of 100% (confidence interval [CI] 99%, 100%), specificity of 99% (CI 99%, 100%), positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100%, and C‐statistic of 1 at the development institution. The computable phenotype performance was similar at the two test institutions with sensitivity of 100% (CI 99%, 100%), specificity of 99% (CI 99%, 100%), PPV of 96%, NPV of 100%, and C‐statistic of 0.99.

Conclusion

The EHR‐based computable phenotype is an accurate cohort identification tool for pediatric patients with leukemia and lymphoma who have been treated with chemotherapy and is ready for use in clinical studies.
Osteosarcoma journey over two decades in India: Small steps, big changes
Authors: Bajpai Jyoti , Chandrasekharan Arun , Simha Vijai , Mandal Tanmoy , Shah Kajal , Hingmare Sachin , Rangarajan Bharath , Shetty Nishitha , Vora Tushar , Ghosh Jaya , Rekhi Bharat , Banavali Sripad , Gupta Sudeep
Published: June 2019

Background

The management of osteosarcoma is challenging especially in lower‐income and middle‐income countries, and there is an unmet need to evolve efficient and sustainable chemotherapy regimens.

Methods

We compared the outcomes in nonmetastatic osteosarcoma patients treated with three sequential non‐high‐dose methotrexate‐based combination chemotherapy protocols at a single tertiary care center over two decades. The first protocol, OGS‐99, involved dose‐intense, alternating dyads of three drugs: doxorubicin (Dox), cisplatin (CDDP), and ifosfamide (Ifo). The second protocol, OGS‐99 enhanced, included OGS‐99 drugs with etoposide and enhanced supportive care. The OGS‐12 protocol involved dose‐dense administration of eight sequential dyads of Dox, CDDP and Ifo, universal growth factor prophylaxis and targeted nutritional support. Event‐free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicity were reported using a retrospective chart review in the OGS‐99 and OGS‐99 enhanced protocols and prospectively in the OGS‐12 protocol.

Results

A total of 41, 94, and 385 treatment‐naïve, consecutive, nonmetastatic patients with extremity osteosarcoma were treated with the OGS‐99 (2000–2005), OGS‐99 enhanced (2010), and OGS‐12 (2011–2016), respectively. At a median follow‐up of 19, 86, and 39 months, the five‐year EFS rates were 38%, 50%, and 62% in the OGS‐99, OGS‐99 enhanced, and OGS‐12, respectively. The corresponding rates of five‐year OS were nonevaluable, 60% and 77%, respectively, with acceptable rates of grade 3–4 toxicities: febrile neutropenia (40%), thrombocytopenia (36%), anemia (51%), and 1% deaths related to toxicity.

Conclusions

Sequential selection of an intelligent, dose‐dense chemotherapy regimen together with enhanced supportive care resulted in marked improvement in outcomes of nonmetastatic osteosarcoma and this “small steps—big changes” model deserves wider recognition and usage.
Potential biomarkers of kaposiform lymphangiomatosis
Authors: Ozeki Michio , Nozawa Akifumi , Kawamoto Norio , Fujino Akihiro , Hirakawa Satoshi , Fukao Toshiyuki
Published: June 2019

Background

Kaposiform lymphangiomatosis (KLA) has recently been distinguished as a novel subtype of generalized lymphatic anomaly (GLA), and is characterized by foci of spindle endothelial cells amid a background of malformed lymphatic channels. The etiology of these diseases remains unknown and diagnosis is confounded by their similar clinical findings. This study aimed to clarify differences in the clinical findings and plasma cytokine profiles of GLA and KLA patients.

Procedure

Clinical features data of GLA and KLA patients were obtained from a national survey. Differences in clinical findings, plasma levels of cytokines, and survival were analyzed. Plasma was obtained from healthy controls and GLA and KLA patients. Thirty‐six angiogenic and lymphangiogenic factors were evaluated for cytokine concentration.

Results

Twenty‐one patients with GLA and 11 with KLA were recruited. Mediastinal masses, hemorrhagic pericardial and pleural effusion, coagulation disorders, and thrombocytopenia were more frequent in KLA than in GLA. KLA had a significantly poorer outcome than GLA (P = 0.044). Soluble VEGFR3, angiopoietin 2, HGF, soluble HER2, tenascin C, and soluble HGFR levels were higher in KLA. Notably, soluble VEGFR3 and angiopoietin 2 levels were approximately 10‐fold higher than those of other molecules measured. However, soluble VEGFR1 and soluble TIE2 were lower in KLA than in GLA and the controls.

Conclusions

Patients with KLA have an unfavorable prognosis and serious symptoms (hemorrhagic pleural effusion and coagulation disorders). Our data indicate that eight angiogenic cytokines might be potential biomarkers of KLA.
Repeat irradiation for children with supratentorial high‐grade glioma
Authors: Tsang Derek S. , Oliveira Carol , Bouffet Eric , Hawkins Cynthia , Ramaswamy Vijay , Yee Ryan , Tabori Uri , Bartels Ute , Huang Annie , Millar Barbara‐Ann , Crooks Bruce , Bowes Lynette , Zelcer Shayna , Laperriere Normand
Published: June 2019

Background

There are very few studies about the role of repeat irradiation (RT2) for children with recurrent supratentorial high‐grade glioma (HGG). It was the aim of this study to assess the effectiveness and safety of RT2 in this population.

Procedure

This was a retrospective cohort study of 40 children age 18 years and under with recurrent supratentorial HGG who had received at least one course of RT. In‐field reirradiation volumes included focal or whole brain RT, with doses ranging from 30 to 54 Gy. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) from the first day of RT2.

Results

Fourteen patients underwent RT2. The median survival of these patients was 6.5 months. Patients with ≥12 months elapsed time between RT1 and RT2 experienced longer OS than patients who had < 12 months (P = 0.009). There was no difference in OS between patients with or without germline mutations (e.g., Lynch, Li–Fraumeni, or constitutional mismatch‐repair deficiency, P = 0.20). Ten patients received RT2 that overlapped with RT1 volumes for locally recurrent disease. Of this group, 80% experienced clinical benefit from in‐field RT2, defined as clinical/radiologic response or stable disease. Ninety‐three percent completed the prescribed course of RT2, with one patient developing grade 3 radiation necrosis four months after RT2. When compared with 26 patients who were not offered reirradiation, those selected for RT2 had improved median survival from the time of first disease progression (9.4 vs 3.8 months, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Reirradiation for children with recurrent supratentorial HGG is a safe, effective treatment that provides short‐term disease control.
Catalytic inhibition of KDM1A in Ewing sarcoma is insufficient as a therapeutic strategy
Authors: Romo‐Morales Antonio , Aladowicz Ewa , Blagg Julian , Gatz Susanne A. , Shipley Janet M.
Published: June 2019

Background

Ewing sarcoma and desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT) are rare and clinically aggressive sarcomas usually characterized by oncogenic fusion proteins involving EWS. Emerging studies of Ewing sarcoma have demonstrated EWS‐FLI1‐driven chromatin remodeling as a key aspect of tumorigenicity. In particular, the lysine‐specific demethylase KDM1A/LSD1 is linked to transcriptional regulation of target genes orchestrated by the EWS portion of the fusion protein interacting with repressive chromatin‐remodeling complexes. Consistent with this model, depletion of KDM1A supports it is a molecular therapeutic target in Ewing sarcoma cells, but effective drugs need to be identified.

Procedure

A comprehensive phenotypic analysis of the effects of catalytic KDM1A inhibitors ORY‐1001 and GSK2879552, including clinically relevant doses, was carried out in 2D and 3D spheroid models of Ewing sarcoma and DSRCT.

Results

Catalytic inhibition of KDM1A did not affect cell viability in 2D and 3D assays and had no impact on invasion in a 3D assay.

Conclusions

Overall, evidence presented here does not support inhibition of KDM1A catalytic demethylase activity as an effective therapeutic strategy for Ewing sarcoma or DSRCT. However, roles of KDM1A beyond its demethylase activity should be considered for these sarcomas.
Interventions to enhance self‐efficacy in cancer patients: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Merluzzi Thomas V. , Pustejovsky James E. , Philip Errol J. , Sohl Stephanie J. , Berendsen Mark , Salsman John M.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Self‐efficacy expectations are associated with improvements in problematic outcomes widely considered clinically significant (ie, emotional distress, fatigue, and pain), related to positive health behaviors, and as a type of personal agency, inherently valuable. Self‐efficacy expectancies, estimates of confidence to execute behaviors, are important in that changes in self‐efficacy expectations are positively related to future behaviors that promote health and well‐being. The current meta‐analysis investigated the impact of psychological interventions on self‐efficacy expectations for a variety of health behaviors among cancer patients.

Methods

Ovid Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched with specific search terms for identifying randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that focused on psychologically based interventions. Included studies had (a) an adult cancer sample, (b) a self‐efficacy expectation measure of specific behaviors, and (c) an RCT design. Standard screening and reliability procedures were used for selecting and coding studies. Coding included theoretically informed moderator variables.

Results

Across 79 RCTs, 223 effect sizes, and 8678 participants, the weighted average effect of self‐efficacy expectations was estimated as g = 0.274 (P < .001). Consistent with the self‐efficacy theory, the average effect for in‐person intervention delivery (g = 0.329) was significantly greater than for all other formats (g = 0.154, P = .023; eg, audiovisual, print, telephone, and Web/internet).

Conclusions

The results establish the impact of psychological interventions on self‐efficacy expectations as comparable in effect size with commonly reported outcomes (distress, fatigue, pain). Additionally, the result that in‐person interventions achieved the largest effect is supported by the social learning theory and could inform research related to the development and evaluation of interventions.
20‐Hydroxyecdysone enhances Immulectin‐1 mediated immune response against entomogenous fungus in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Han Pengfei , Han Jiao , Zhang Min , Fan Jiqiao , Gong Qitian , Ma Enbo , Zhang Jianzhen
Published: June 2019

Background

Entomogenous fungi are important factors in biological control, but innate immunity of insects restricts the efficiency of fungus infection. 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) is involved in regulating the immune response of insects. Our previous studies have revealed that 20E enhances the expression of antibacterial peptides in the worldwide pest Locusta migratoria. However, the mechanism by which 20E controls innate immunity against entomogenous fungi is still unknown.

Results

In the present study, based on the transcriptome of L. migratoria fat bodies challenged by 20E, immulectin‐1 (LmIML‐1) was screened and identified to be involved in modulating antifungal immunity. Spatio‐temporal expression analysis showed LmIML‐1 was highly expressed in the fifth instar nymph stage, and mainly distributed in the fat bodies and hemolymph. Both exogenous and endogenous 20E could increase the transcription of LmIML‐1. In contrast, transcription of LmIML‐1 did not increase when the 20E signal was blocked by RNAi of LmEcR (ecdysone receptor). The expressed recombinant protein rLmIML‐1 possessed agglutination activity and promoted the encapsulation. RNA interference of LmIML‐1 reduced the encapsulation of hemocytes, decreased the antifungal activity of plasma against Metarhizium anisopliae and accelerated the death of nymphs under the stress of entomogenous fungus. Meanwhile, 20E did not increase the antifungal activity with silence of LmIML‐1 in L. migratoria.

Conclusion

20E enhances antifungal immunity by activating immulectin‐1 in L. migratoria. Our findings indicate a potential mechanism of 20E systematically regulating innate immune response to resist pathogens and provide a well‐defined molecular target for improving biological control. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Genome‐wide markers reveal temporal instability of local population genetic structure in the cotton fleahopper, Pseudatomoscelis seriatus (Hemiptera: Miridae)
Authors: Raszick Tyler J , Suh Charles P‐C , Dickens Charles Michael , Sword Gregory A
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

The cotton fleahopper, Pseudatomoscelis seriatus (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Miridae), is a pest of upland cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvales: Malvaceae), that attacks pre‐floral buds (squares), leading to abscission and yield losses. In the Brazos Valley cotton production area of Texas (USA), P. seriatus exhibits a seasonal pattern of host use. In spring, eggs hatch from stems of the overwintering host, woolly croton, Croton capitatus Michx. (Malpighiales: Euphorbiaceae). During the growing season, individuals feed on a variety of host plants, including cotton. Adults return to woolly croton at season end to oviposit. We investigated if genetic differentiation exists between populations infesting cotton and those infesting alternative hosts, and whether woolly croton serves as a year‐end site of admixture that could be suitable as a natural refuge for the purposes of insect resistance management. We combined high‐throughput DNA sequencing with fine‐scale spatio‐temporal sampling to test (i) whether a population genomic approach would recover patterns of genetic variation consistent with earlier studies and (ii) if local genetic population structure was robust to seasonal changes in local habitat over time.

RESULTS

We found high gene flow among populations of P. seriatus collected from different host plants in the Brazos Valley. We also identified temporal instability of the local population genetic structure, including the near complete loss of a genotypic group that had been previously abundant.

CONCLUSION

We support the status of woolly croton as a natural refuge that promotes year‐end gene flow between genotypes infesting cotton and those infesting alternative hosts. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of a Yersinia entomophaga bait for control of larvae of the porina moth (Wiseana spp.), a pest of New Zealand improved grassland systems
Authors: Hurst Mark RH , Swaminathan Jayanthi , Wright David A , Hardwick Scott , Ferguson Colin M , Beattie Amy , Richards Nicola K , Harper Lincoln , Moss Ray A , Cave Vanessa M , van Koten Chikako , McNeill Mark R
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Porina is the common name for moths and larvae of the genus Wiseana (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae), some of which are significant pasture pests in New Zealand. Because of environmental concerns and the non‐target effects of insecticide control measures, biological alternatives for the control of insect pests such as porina are required.

RESULTS

Using a food preference assay and time‐lapse photography, a range of low‐cost food ingredients were assessed for their palatability to porina larvae. Lead candidates were combined into extruded bait variants, allowing assessment of their palatability to porina larvae. A composite bait consisting of palatable ingredients was developed, into which the porina‐active entomopathogen Yersinia entomophaga was incorporated. A 7 day minimum median lethal dose of approximately 6.0 × ±1 × 106 Y. entomophaga cells per 0.02 g of bait was defined. Field trials showed that the mean change in larval density over time differed between treatments, with Y. entomophaga bait applied at 87 kg ha−1 resulting in a mean 65% reduction in larval density relative to the control plots, and diflubenzuron treatment resulting in a mean 77% reduction relative to the control plots. The mean dry matter yields over the course of the trial were highest for diflubenzuron (5029 kg ha−1), followed by the Y. entomophaga (4783 kg ha−1) and control (4673 kg ha−1) treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

The bacterium Y. entomophaga applied as a composite bait offers an environmentally sustainable approach for porina pest control. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
“One size does not fit all”: Spatial nonstationarity in the determinants of elderly residential isolation in historicalEurope
Authors: Szołtysek Mikołaj , Ogórek Bartosz , Poniat Radosław , Gruber Siegfried
Published: June 2019

The extent of elderly residential isolation from kin varied considerably between European historical societies, but few attempts have been made to understand these patterns systematically across space. So far, large‐scale accounts of factors underlying these patterns have calibrated a global model based on a single regression equation, thus implicitly assuming that the relationships between elderly living arrangements and their correlates are spatially constant. Drawing on insights from quantitative geography, we hypothesise that the relationships between living arrangements and meso‐level characteristics varied significantly over space provoking different responses to the same stimuli at different locations. We confirm this hypothesis by applying geographically weighted regression to data on 277 regional populations across historical Europe and demonstrating that these relationships were indeed spatially contingent. Our bottom line results suggest that in historic Europe, there were regions distinct not only in terms of the magnitude of living without kin but also with respect to the underlying determinants of levels of residential isolation.
Iodine–Ethanol Surface Passivation for Measurement of Millisecond Carrier Lifetimes in Silicon Wafers with Different Crystallographic Orientations
Authors: Al-Amin Mohammad , Grant Nicholas E. , Pointon Alex I. , Murphy John D.
Published: June 2019

To improve silicon device fabrication processes, it is necessary to monitor bulk minority carrier lifetimes accurately, and this requires surface recombination to be well controlled and, ideally, minimized. Good surface passivation can result from thermal oxidation or by deposition of dielectrics (e.g., Al2O3, SiNx, and amorphous Si), but these forms of passivation can modify the lifetime of the material under investigation. Various schemes can passivate surfaces on a temporary basis without modifying the bulk, and, in this article, the virtues of the iodine–ethanol (I–E) temporary surface passivation scheme are explored. A procedure for preparing the wafer surfaces prior to passivation is developed. For the optimized pretreatment, a series of experiments on 3–5 Ω cm float‐zone wafers cut from the same ingot with different thicknesses is conducted. This enables the material's bulk lifetime to be measured at 1015 cm−3 injection as 46 ms, with the surface recombination velocity being 6.5 ± 0.3 cm s−1. I–E passivation is then compared to a recently developed superacid‐derived temporary passivation scheme. Although the latter is superior on (100)‐orientation substrates, I–E performs much better on (111)‐orientation substrates, making it a better choice for (111)‐orientation wafers, such as those used for power devices.
Influence of MoS2‐Silicon Interface States on Spectral Photoresponse Characteristics
Authors: Desai Pradeep , Ranade Ajinkya K. , Mahyavanshi Rakesh , Tanemura Masaki , Kalita Golap
Published: June 2019

Fabrication of heterojunction with transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC) layers and convention bulk semiconductor is of great interest for optoelectronic device applications. Herein, the influence of interface in a fabricated molybdenum sulfide (MoS2) and p‐type silicon (Si) heterostructure on bias‐dependent photoresponse is demonstrated. The MoS2 layers deposited on the p‐type Si wafer show a photovoltaic action and a photoresponsivity of 139 mA W−1 at 860 nm wavelength for a bias voltage of −5 V. It is observed that the spectral photoresponse of the device enhanced considerably with an applied bias voltage than that of the photovoltaic mode due to an effective field effect across the heterojunction. The increase in photoresponsivity at a higher wavelength (>600 nm) is significant than that of lower wavelength (<500 nm) at the bias voltage. This may due to surface recombination of photocarriers for higher energy photons in the presence of interface states at the MoS2/Si heterojunction. The understanding of photocarriers behavior in the fabricated MoS2/Si heterojunction interface can be critical to develop high photoresponsive heterojunction devices.
Does monsoon gyre always favour tropical cyclone rapid intensification?
Authors: Yan Ziyu , Ge Xuyang , Peng Melinda , Li Tim
Published: June 2019

In this study, potential impacts of monsoon gyres (MG) on the development of a tropical cyclone (TC) are investigated using idealized numerical simulations. When a TC is embedded in an MG, our results show that its development is slower, and its intensity is weaker compared with that evolved with no background flow. We identified three MG dynamic mechanisms that can affect TC development. First, the superposition of TC and MG circulations produce a larger outer size for the TC. A TC with a larger size develops slowly and has a reduced capacity to organize convection through vorticity segregation process. Deep convection is located mainly outside the radius of maximum wind, resulting in slower intensification rates. Secondly, when the TC is embedded on the eastern flank of the MG, its outer profile becomes barotropically unstable. The asymmetric perturbations exhibit an up‐shear tilting, which extracts kinetic energy from the primary vortex and thus hinders TC intensification. In the third mechanism, the vertical baroclinic nature of the MG imposes an ambient vertical wind shear on the TC, leading to a vertical tilting and increased asymmetric perturbation that hinders TC intensification. The MG relative humidity also impacts TC intensification, with negative impacts greater in drier environments.
A parametric meta‐analysis
Authors: Yu Chang , Zelterman Daniel
Published: June 2019

In a meta‐analysis, we assemble a sample of independent, nonidentically distributed p‐values. The Fisher's combination procedure provides a chi‐squared test of whether the p‐values were sampled from the null uniform distribution. After rejecting the null uniform hypothesis, we are faced with the problem of how to combine the assembled p‐values. We first derive a distribution for the p‐values. The distribution is parameterized by the standardized mean difference (SMD) and the sample size. It includes the uniform as a special case. The maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) of the SMD can then be obtained from the independent, nonidentically distributed p‐values. The MLE can be interpreted as a weighted average of the study‐specific estimate of the effect size with a shrinkage. The method is broadly applicable to p‐values obtained in the maximum likelihood framework. Simulation studies show that our method can effectively estimate the effect size with as few as 6 p‐values in the meta‐analyses. We also present a Bayes estimator for SMD and a method to account for publication bias. We demonstrate our methods on several meta‐analyses that assess the potential benefits of citicoline for patients with memory disorders or patients recovering from ischemic stroke.
Three‐Dimensional Mesoporous Straw‐like Co3O4 Anode with Enhanced Electrochemical Performance for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Li , Dai Jing , Jiang Gaoxue , Sun Xinyu , Huang Zhuohui , Xie Zhengjun , Cao Bingqiang
Published: June 2019

Herein, a three‐dimensional (3D) mesoporous straw‐like Co3O4 was prepared via a simple hydrothermal synthesis with cobalt acetate as the cobalt source and p‐phthalic acid as the precipitator. The straw‐like Co3O4 comprises lots of superposed nanosheets with thicknesses of 100–150 nm. Co3O4 nanosheets are assembled with irregular nanoparticles and there are a number of holes in the interior of nanosheets. When employed as an anode for rechargeable Li‐ion batteries, 3D mesoporous straw‐like Co3O4 indicates superior electrochemical activities. The discharge specific capacity maintains in about 1194 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 400 mA g−1. This straw‐like Co3O4 also delivers a high capacity of 956 mAh g−1 after 60 cycles at 800 mA g−1. The capacitive and diffusion behaviors are responsible for the superior Li+ storage of 3D mesoporous straw‐like Co3O4. The facile synthesis method and good electrochemical performances make the 3D mesoporous straw‐like Co3O4 a good candidate with enhanced electrochemical performance for Li‐ion batteries.
Efficient Planar Perovskite Solar Cells via a Sputtered Cathode
Authors: Mo Yanping , Shi Jian , Zhou Peng , Li Saisai , Bu Tongle , Cheng Yi-Bing , Huang Fuzhi
Published: June 2019

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) attract great attention due to their low cost and high efficiency. In general, the Au cathode, a key component in PSCs, is prepared via an uneconomic vacuum thermal deposition method. Instead, the sputtering deposition method is much more economic and faster. However, it is generally thought that the organic hole transport layer such as 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis[N,N‐di(4‐methoxyphenyl)amino]‐9,9′‐spirobifluorene (Spiro‐OMeTAD) can be easily damaged by the high energy plasma during the sputtering process. Thus, the performance of the PSCs greatly decreases. Herein, the structure of the planar PSCs is carefully manipulated by matching the thickness of Spiro‐OMeTAD layer and the Au film. With the further engineering of the interface of the Au/Spiro‐OMeTAD, the planar PSCs with the sputtered Au cathode exhibit a highly reproducible average efficiency of 17.6% ± 0.8%, with the best efficiency of 18.3%. In addition, the Cu electrode is demonstrated by the sputtering method. Finally, the Au sputter deposition is scaled up to make a high efficiency (14.7%) 10 × 10 cm2 module. This demonstrates well that the sputtering deposition of the metal cathode is an effective way for the fabrication of high efficient PSCs for future industrialization.
Delayed Fracture in Automotive Advanced High Strength Steel: A New Investigation Approach
Authors: Valentini Renzo , Tedesco Michele Maria , Corsinovi Serena , Bacchi Linda
Published: June 2019

Nowadays Al–Si coated boron steels (that are Advanced High Strength Steels, AHSS) are largely used in vehicle bodies. If on one hand they offer great mechanical performances, on the other hand they are susceptible to hydrogen delayed fracture. As this phenomenon brings to the reject of the component during production or even worse the failure during operation, diffusible hydrogen absorbed in the component needs to be monitored during plant process. A simple procedure, by means of a solid‐state innovative sensor, is developed to check diffusible hydrogen concentration during laboratory experiments and manufacturing process. The behavior of an Al–Si coated boron steel after hydrogen absorption is investigated by means of slow strain rate mechanical tests (SSRT) and correlated to the diffusible hydrogen content. Finally, in manufacturing process an extensive plant test campaign is performed on semi‐manufactured vehicle parts in order to verify the laboratory's results. These tests confirmed the possibility to approach the evaluation of diffusible hydrogen content in semi‐products during car manufacturing by means of an easy procedure based on a robust sensor.
Neuartige Sandwichfahrbahnplatte für Eisenbahnbrücken
Authors: Takács Patrik , Fink Josef
Published: June 2019

Eine neu entwickelte, extrem schlanke Steel‐Concrete‐Steel‐Composite‐(SCSC‐)Platte soll als Fahrbahnplatte für Eisenbahnbrücken in Trogbrückenbauweise dienen. Namensgebend ist der mehrschichtige Aufbau der Platte, die aus zwei außen liegenden Stahlblechen mit unbewehrtem Betonkern besteht. Lochdübelleisten mit einem Achsabstand von 500 mm werden wechselweise am oberen und am unteren Blech angeschweißt, sie dienen der Schubübertragung zwischen den äußeren Blechen durch die Aktivierung von horizontal liegenden, diagonalen Betondruckstreben zwischen benachbarten Dübelleisten. Untersuchungen zur Tragfähigkeit ohne Ermüdung sowie die Erläuterung des Tragmechanismus der SCSC‐Platte erfolgten in [1, 2]. Die aktuellen Forschungen konzentrieren sich auf das Ermüdungsverhalten der Lochdübelleisten. Ziel war es, den Zusammenhang zwischen dem Niveau der Verkehrslast (Lastmodell 71 [3]) und der ertragbaren Anzahl der Schwingspiele, bis Rissbildung in den Dübelleisten entsteht, zu quantifizieren.

Die rechnerische Beurteilung der Lebensdauer der Lochdübelleiste wurde anhand nichtlinearer FE‐Berechnungen mit Abaqus/Explizit [4] zur Ermittlung der Spannungen und Dehnungen als Eingangsgrößen für die Kerbdehnungsmethode [5] bereits in [6, 7] vorgestellt. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die Planung, Durchführung und Auswertung der experimentellen Untersuchungen und einen Vergleich der Ergebnisse aus den Versuchen mit den rechnerisch ermittelten Lebensdauerwerten.
A review of the method and validation of the MiSeq FGx™ Forensic Genomics Solution
Authors: England Ryan , Harbison Sallyann
Published: June 2019

The MiSeq FGx™ Forensic Genomics Solution (MFGS; Verogen Inc.) is a massively parallel sequencing workflow using Illumina sequencing technology. The workflow includes the ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep kit, the MiSeq FGx™, and the ForenSeq™ Universal Analysis Software (UAS). This review explores the molecular biology and bioinformatic methods used during the preparation of samples into sequencing libraries, the MiSeq FGx™ sequencing process, and the data analysis. We highlight what happens during each of these steps and how they influence the final results, while identifying limitations and possible improvements. After initial evaluations established its suitability for forensic applications, a number of studies have completed forensic validation studies. We review this work, and find the MFGS has shown to be a reliable and robust technology. The successful validation of the solution has allowed its implementation into forensic casework in a number of jurisdictions. Some questions still remain around the normalization of the sequencing libraries, and the bioinformatic processing and analysis of the sequencing results. In particular, the markers for biogeographical ancestry and externally visible characteristics require further research into their performance, and the ForenSeq™ UAS, in its current form, is limited in its ability to accurately predict these characteristics. We suggest a number of alternative bioinformatic tools that could be used instead.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Biology > Forensic DNA Technologies

Forensic Biology > Phenotypic Markers

Forensic Biology > Ancestry Determination using DNA Methods
Cover Image, Volume 11, Issue 4
Authors: Nejadnik Hossein , Tseng Jessica , Daldrup‐Link Heike
Published: June 2019

The cover image is based on the Focus Article Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Stem Cell–Macrophage Interactions with Ferumoxytol and Ferumoxytol‐Derived Nanoparticles by Hossein Nejadnik, Jessica Tseng, and Heike Daldrup‐Link. https://doi.org/10.1002/wnan.1552.

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Syntheses and Crystal Structures of Two Cadmium Methanetetrabenzoates Featured by Open Framework and Infinite Layers
Authors: Harms Sven , Köferstein Roberto , Görls Helmar , Robl Christian
Published: June 2019

Colorless single crystals of Cd2[μ8‐MTB]·3H2O·DMF (1) were prepared in DMF/H2O solution [1: space group C2/c (no. 15) with a = 1821.30(6), b = 2175.08(6), c = 1269.87(4) pm, β = 129.684(1)°]. The connection between the methane‐p‐benzoate tetraanions (MTB4–) and the Cd2+ cations leads to a three‐dimensional framework with channels extending along [110] and [110] with openings of 670 pm × 360 pm. The channel‐like voids accommodate water molecules and N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) molecules not bound to Cd2+. Colorless single crystals of [Cd4(2,2′‐bipy)4(μ7‐MTB)2]·7DMF (2) were prepared in DMF in the presence of 2,2′‐bipyridine [2: space group P1 (no. 2) with a = 1224.84(4), b = 1418.85(5), c = 2033.49(4) pm, α = 85.831(2)°, β = 88.351(2)°, γ = 68.261(1)°]. The coordination of MTB4– to Cd2+ results in infinite layers parallel to (001). The layers, not connected by any hydrogen bonds, contain small openings of about 320 pm × 340 pm.