bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regression of Epileptogenesis by Inhibiting Tropomyosin Kinase B Signaling following a Seizure
Authors: Krishnamurthy Kamesh , Huang Yang Zhong , Harward Stephen C. , Sharma Keshov K. , Tamayo Dylan L. , McNamara James O.
Published: September 2019

Objective

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a devastating disease in which seizures persist in 35% of patients despite optimal use of antiseizure drugs. Clinical and preclinical evidence implicates seizures themselves as one factor promoting epilepsy progression. What is the molecular consequence of a seizure that promotes progression? Evidence from preclinical studies led us to hypothesize that activation of tropomyosin kinase B (TrkB)–phospholipase‐C‐gamma‐1 (PLCγ1) signaling induced by a seizure promotes epileptogenesis.

Methods

To examine the effects of inhibiting TrkB signaling on epileptogenesis following an isolated seizure, we implemented a modified kindling model in which we induced a seizure through amygdala stimulation and then used either a chemical–genetic strategy or pharmacologic methods to disrupt signaling for 2 days following the seizure. The severity of a subsequent seizure was assessed by behavioral and electrographic measures.

Results

Transient inhibition of TrkB‐PLCγ1 signaling initiated after an isolated seizure limited progression of epileptogenesis, evidenced by the reduced severity and duration of subsequent seizures. Unexpectedly, transient inhibition of TrkB‐PLCγ1 signaling initiated following a seizure also reverted a subset of animals to an earlier state of epileptogenesis. Remarkably, inhibition of TrkB‐PLCγ1 signaling in the absence of a recent seizure did not reduce severity of subsequent seizures.

Interpretation

These results suggest a novel strategy for limiting progression or potentially ameliorating severity of TLE whereby transient inhibition of TrkB‐PLCγ1 signaling is initiated following a seizure. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:939–950
Stable Confinement of Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots on Black Tin Oxide Nanotubes: A Robust, Double‐Active Electrocatalyst toward Efficient Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Liu Yi‐Tao , Li Di , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: September 2019

A conceptually new, metal‐free electrocatalyst, black phosphorus (BP) is presented, which is further downsized to quantum dots (QDs) for larger surface areas, and thus, more active sites than the bulk form. However, BP QDs are prone to agglomeration, which inevitably results in the loss of active sites. Besides, their poor conductivity is not favorable for charge transport during electrolysis. To solve these problems, an electrochemically active, electrically conductive matrix, black tin oxide (SnO2−x) nanotubes, is employed for the first time. Through facile self‐assembly, BP QDs are stably confined on the SnO2−x nanotubes due to Sn‐P coordination, resulting in a robust, double‐active electrocatalyst. Benefiting from their synergistic superiority, the BP@SnO2−x nanotubes deliver impressively high ammonia yield and Faradaic efficiency, which represent a successful attempt toward advanced hybrid electrocatalysts for ambient nitrogen fixation.
Revealing an Interconnected Interfacial Layer in Solid‐State Polymer Sodium Batteries
Authors: Zhao Chenglong , Liu Lilu , Lu Yaxiang , Wagemaker Marnix , Chen Liquan , Hu Yong‐Sheng
Published: September 2019

Replacing the commonly used nonaqueous liquid electrolytes in rechargeable sodium batteries with polymer solid electrolytes is expected to provide new opportunities to develop safer batteries with higher energy densities. However, this poses challenges related to the interface between the Na‐metal anode and polymer electrolytes. Driven by systematically investigating the interface properties, an improved interface is established between a composite Na/C metal anode and electrolyte. The observed chemical bonding between carbon matrix of anode with solid polymer electrolyte, prevents delamination, and leads to more homogeneous plating and stripping, which reduces/suppresses dendrite formation. Full solid‐state polymer Na‐metal batteries, using a high mass loaded Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, exhibit ultrahigh capacity retention of more than 92 % after 2 000 cycles and over 80 % after 5 000 cycles, as well as the outstanding rate capability.
Thermal Enhancement of Upconversion by Negative Lattice Expansion in Orthorhombic Yb2W3O12
Authors: Zou Hua , Yang Xueqing , Chen Bing , Du Yangyang , Ren Biyun , Sun Xinwen , Qiao Xvsheng , Zhang Qiwei , Wang Feng
Published: September 2019

Thermal quenching of photoluminescence represents a significant obstacle to practical applications such as lighting, display, and photovoltaics. Herein, a novel strategy is established to enhance upconversion luminescence at elevated temperatures based on the use of negative thermal expansion host materials. Lanthanide‐doped orthorhombic Yb2W3O12 crystals are synthesized and characterized by in situ X‐ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The thermally induced contraction and distortion of the host lattice is demonstrated to enhance the collection of excitation energy by activator ions. When the temperature is increased from 303 to 573 K, a 29‐fold enhancement of green upconversion luminescence in Er3+ activators is achieved. Moreover, the temperature dependence of the upconversion luminescence is reversible. The thermally enhanced upconversion is developed as a sensitive ratiometric thermometer by referring to a thermally quenched upconversion.
Molecular mechanisms of circular RNAs, transforming growth factor‐β, and long noncoding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Shang Wenkang , Adzika Gabriel Komla , Li Yujie , Huang Qike , Ding Ningding , Chinembiri Bianca , Rashid Mohammad Sajjad Ibn , Machuki Jeremiah Ong'achwa
Published: September 2019

At the heart of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) lies disruption of signaling pathways at the level of molecules, genes, and cells. Non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been implicated in the disease progression of HCC. For instance, dysregulated expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been observed in patients with HCC. As such, these RNAs are potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers for HCC. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a type of ncRNA, have also been recognized to participate in the initiation and progression of HCC. Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) is another element which is now recognized to play crucial roles in HCC. It has been implicated in many biological processes such as survival, immune surveillance, and cell proliferation. In HCC, TGF‐β promotes disease progression by two mechanisms: an intrinsic signaling pathway and the extrinsic pathway. Through these pathways, it modulates various microenvironment factors such as inflammatory mediators and fibroblasts. An interesting yet‐to‐be resolved concept is whether the HCC‐promoting role of TGF‐β pathways is limited to a subset of HCC patients or it is involved in the whole process of HCC development. This review summarizes recent advancements to highlight the roles of circRNAs, lncRNAs, and TGF‐β in HCC.
Challenges associated with limited‐resources cancer care facility: Bilateral breast myeloid sarcoma as an example
Authors: Khoshnaw Najmaddin , Yassin Ahmed K. , Alwan Alaa F. , Hassan Hemin A. , Mula‐Hussain Layth
Published: September 2019

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a rare myeloid malignancy. It can arise before, concurrent with, or following different malignant hematological diseases, most commonly acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndrome, or myeloproliferative neoplasms. Here we describe a 30‐year‐old female with AML‐M1 who presented to the hematology department with bilateral breast pain and tenderness. Available diagnostic measures including ultrasound of breast and magnetic resonance imaging were used to determine the nature of these breast lumps. MS was definitively diagnosed via biopsy and the patient was treated with systemic chemotherapy. Despite her AML treatment she unfortunately died secondary to disease progression. The authors consider this case of particular educational value due to the bilateral and aggressive nature of this patient’s disease in the setting of a cancer‐care facility with limited resources.

Key Clinical Message

In retrospect, if breast MS had been considered earlier in this patient’s presentation, a referral to an outside center with matched stem cell transplantation capability may have been warranted after complete remission following first bone marrow relapse, rather than continuing chemotherapy alone.
Integrative Ni@Pd‐Ni Alloy Nanowire Array Electrocatalysts Boost Hydrazine Oxidation Kinetics
Authors: Du Mengmeng , Sun Haijun , Li Junwen , Ye Xiaoli , Yue Fangyuan , Yang Jifei , Liu Yi , Guo Fen
Published: September 2019

Owing to the oxophilic property of Ni catalysts and their sluggish kinetics toward the hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR), an ultra‐low amount of Pd is incorporated with Ni to form integrative Ni@Pd−Ni alloy nanowire array electrocatalysts by using templated electrodeposition and subsequent galvanic replacement. The morphology, crystalline structure, and composition of the as‐prepared catalysts are characterized by using FESEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, and ICP. The electrochemical evaluation shows that the onset potential of the Ni@Pd−Ni alloy nanowire arrays for HzOR is −0.99 V vs. Ag/AgCl, which is significantly lowered by 800 mV than that for the Ni nanowire arrays. Two possible factors contribute to the robust HzOR kinetics: 1) the metallization of Ni by the PdHx; 2) the heterogeneous catalytic pathway on the Pd−Ni alloy. Furthermore, the innovative structure also endows Ni@Pd−Ni alloy nanowire arrays with considerable durability, indicating it as a promising anode electrocatalyst for HzOR‐assisted hydrogen production and simultaneous hydrazine‐containing sewage treatment.
Recent developments of the Component Method
Authors: Rasmussen Kim J. R. , Zhao Xianzhong , Yan Shen , Dai Liusi , Zhu Chen , Jiang Luli
Published: September 2019

The Component Method is well established and incorporated in Part 1.8 of Eurocode3 for the design of connections of steel frameworks. It is primarily intended to provide the elastic joint stiffness, although Part 1.8 includes provisions for also determining the inelastic moment‐rotation response from the elastic limit to the ultimate moment. The latter provisions are empirical and use an established experimentally‐based nonlinear equation to define the inelastic response.

The Component Method has been further developed in recent years to determine the inelastic response using bi‐linear springs with elastic and inelastic ranges. Procedures have also been developed at the University of Sydney to extend the Method into the post‐ultimate range by defining tri‐linear springs with elastic, inelastic and softening ranges. As well, recent research at the University of Sydney has produced a simple way to predict the moment‐rotation response under fracture of components, thus enabling the Method to capture the full moment‐rotation behaviour.

The ability of the Method to predict full‐range moment‐rotation behaviour is especially useful for design by advanced analysis and progressive collapse analysis, as it allows both members and connections to be checked for stiffness and strength as part of the analysis.

In parallel, an ongoing joint project between Sydney University and Tongji University on the strength of beam‐to‐upright connections in rack structures has extended to Component Method to cold‐formed steel connections which include tang‐connectors and bolts. The paper provides an overview of these recent developments of the Component Method, including the opportunity to incorporate the Method in a fully nonlinear procedure for the direct design of steel frameworks including connections by advanced analysis, also referred to as the Direct Design Method.
Molecular Structure and Magnetic and Optical Properties of Endometallonitridofullerene Sc3N@Ih‐C80 in Neutral, Radical Anion, and Dimeric Anionic Forms
Authors: Konarev Dmitri V. , Popov Alexey A. , Zorina Leokadiya V. , Khasanov Salavat S. , Lyubovskaya Rimma N.
Published: September 2019

A series of compounds with Sc3N@Ih‐C80 in the neutral, monomeric, and dimeric anion states have been prepared in the crystalline form and their molecular structures and optical and magnetic properties have been studied. The neutral Sc3N@Ih‐C80⋅3 C6H4Cl2 (1) and (Sc3N@Ih‐C80)3(TPC)2⋅5 C6H4Cl2 (2, TPC=triptycene) compounds both crystallized in a high‐symmetry trigonal structure. The reduction of Sc3N@Ih‐C80 to the radical anion resulted in dimerization to form diamagnetic singly bonded (Sc3N@Ih‐C80−)2 dimers. In contrast to {[2.2.2]cryptand(Na+)}2(Sc3N@Ih‐C80−)2⋅2.5 C6H4Cl2 (3) with strongly disordered components, we synthesized new dimeric phases {[2.2.2]cryptand‐ (K+)}2(Sc3N@Ih‐C80−)2⋅2 C6H4Cl2 (4) and {[2.2.2]cryptand‐ (Cs+)}2(Sc3N@Ih‐C80−)2⋅2 C6H4Cl2 (5) in which only one major dimer orientation was found. The thermal stability of the (Sc3N@Ih‐C80−)2 dimers was studied by EPR analysis of 3 to show their dissociation in the 400–460 K range producing monomeric Sc3N@Ih‐C80.− radical anions. This species shows an EPR signal with a hyperfine splitting of 5.8 mT. The energy of the intercage C−C bond was estimated to be 234±7 kJ mol−1, the highest value among negatively charged fullerene dimers. The EPR spectra of crystalline (Bu3MeP+)3(Sc3N@Ih‐C80.−)3⋅C6H4Cl2 (6) are presented for the first time. The salt shows an asymmetric EPR signal, which could be fitted by three lines. Two lines were attributed to Sc3N@Ih‐C80.−. Hyperfine splitting is manifested above 180 K due to the hyperfine interaction of the electron spin with the three scandium atoms (a total of 22 lines with an average splitting of 5.32 mT are observed at 220 K). Furthermore, each of the 22 lines is additionally split into six lines with an average separation of 0.82 mT. The large splitting indicates intrinsic charge and spin density transfer from the fullerene cage to the Sc3N cluster. Both the monomeric and dimeric Sc3N@Ih‐C80− anions show an intrinsic shift of the IR bands attributed to the Sc3N cluster and new bands corresponding to these species appear in the NIR range of their UV/Vis/NIR spectra, which allows these anions to be distinguished from neutral species.
Synthesis of 5‐Alkyl‐ and 5‐Phenylamino‐Substituted Azothiazole Dyes with Solvatochromic and DNA‐Binding Properties
Authors: Pithan Phil M. , Kuhlmann Christopher , Engelhard Carsten , Ihmels Heiko
Published: September 2019

A series of new 5‐mono‐ and 5,5′‐bisamino‐substituted azothiazole derivatives was synthesized from the readily available diethyl azothiazole‐4,4′‐dicarboxylate. This reaction most likely comprises an initial Michael‐type addition by the respective primary alkyl and aromatic amines at the carbon atom C5 of the substrate. Subsequently, the resulting intermediates are readily oxidized by molecular oxygen to afford the amino‐substituted azothiazole derivatives. The latter exhibit remarkably red‐shifted absorption bands (λabs=507–661 nm) with high molar extinction coefficients and show a strong positive solvatochromism. As revealed by spectrometric titrations and circular and linear dichroism studies, the water‐soluble, bis‐(dimethylaminopropylamino)‐substituted azo dye associates with duplex DNA by formation of aggregates along the phosphate backbone at high ligand–DNA ratios (LDR) and by intercalation at low LDR, which also leads to a significant increase of the otherwise low emission intensity at 671 nm.
Computational model demonstrates that Ndc80‐associated proteins strengthen kinetochore‐microtubule attachments in metaphase
Authors: Campbell Samuel , Amin Mohammed A. , Varma Dileep , Bidone Tamara C.
Published: September 2019

Chromosome segregation is mediated by spindle microtubules that attach to the kinetochore via dynamic protein complexes, such as Ndc80, Ska, Cdt1 and ch‐TOG during mitotic metaphase. While experimental studies have previously shown that these proteins and protein complexes are all essential for maintaining a stable kinetochore‐microtubule (kMT) interface, their exact roles in the mitotic metaphase remains elusive. In this study, we employed experimental and computational methods in order to characterize how these proteins can strengthen kMT attachments in both nonload‐bearing and load‐bearing conditions, typical of prometaphase and metaphase, respectively. Immunofluorescence staining of HeLa cells showed that the levels of Ska and Cdt1 significantly increased from prometaphase to metaphase, while levels of the Ndc80 complex remained unchanged. Our new computational model showed that by incorporating binding and unbinding of each protein complex coupled with a biased diffusion mechanism, the displacement of a possible complex formed by Ndc80‐Ska‐Cdt1 is significantly higher than that of Ndc80 alone or Ndc80‐Ska. In addition, when we incorporate Ndc80/ch‐TOG in the model, rupture force and time of attachment of the kMT interface increases. These results support the hypothesis that Ndc80‐associated proteins strengthen kMT attachments, and that the interplay between kMT protein complexes in metaphase ensures stable attachments.
Nicotinic acid affects cytoskeleton remodeling via increasing the activity of gelsolin
Authors: Su Xiang , Ni Haizhen , Jin Wenxu , Pan Lemen
Published: September 2019

Our previous research has demonstrated that nicotinic acid (NA) might suppress the angiogenesis by modulating the expression of angiogenesis factors and promoting the cytoskeleton remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism need to be further elucidated. The intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured by a [Ca2+] detection kit. The F‐actin depolymerization was shown by immunofluorescence staining. The protein levels of F‐actin and G‐actin were determined by Western blot. The effects of NA treatment on the gelsolin‐PI3Kα (p110α) interaction were investigated by co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP). NA treatment caused an initial drop and then induced a significant increase in [Ca2+] with a time and dose dependent manner. In addition, NA promoted the depolymerization of F‐actin and knockdown of gelsolin substantially rescued the effects caused by NA treatment. NA treatment significantly inhibited the interaction between phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) α (p110α) and gelsolin and addition of phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)‐triphosphate (PIP3) increased the protein level of F‐actin and rescued the F/G‐actin ratio. In conclusion, our results indicated NA treatment could interfere with the ability of PI3Kα (p110α) to inhibit the activity of gelsolin by decomposing PIP2 to produce PIP3, thereby increasing the activity of gelsolin, which ultimately acted on the remodeling of the cytoskeleton and exerted an inhibitory effect on angiogenesis.
Organization of associating or crosslinked actin filaments in confinement
Authors: Adeli Koudehi Maral , Rutkowski David M. , Vavylonis Dimitrios
Published: September 2019

A key factor of actin cytoskeleton organization in cells is the interplay between the dynamical properties of actin filaments and cell geometry, which restricts, confines and directs their orientation. Crosslinking interactions among actin filaments, together with geometrical cues and regulatory proteins can give rise to contractile rings in dividing cells and actin rings in neurons. Motivated by recent in vitro experiments, in this work we performed computer simulations to study basic aspects of the interplay between confinement and attractive interactions between actin filaments. We used a spring‐bead model and Brownian dynamics to simulate semiflexible actin filaments that polymerize in a confining sphere with a rate proportional to the monomer concentration. We model crosslinking, or attraction through the depletion interaction, implicitly as an attractive short‐range potential between filament beads. In confining geometries smaller than the persistence length of actin filaments, we show rings can form by curving of filaments of length comparable to, or longer than the confinement diameter. Rings form for optimal ranges of attractive interactions that exist in between open bundles, irregular loops, aggregated, and unbundled morphologies. The probability of ring formation is promoted by attraction to the confining sphere boundary and decreases for large radii and initial monomer concentrations, in agreement with prior experimental data. The model reproduces ring formation along the flat plane of oblate ellipsoids.
Towards a secure incremental proxy re‐encryption for e‐healthcare data sharing in mobile cloud computing
Authors: Bhatia Tarunpreet , Verma A.K. , Sharma Gaurav
Published: September 2019

Cloud computing provides universal access to a pool of shared resources to numerous stakeholders/shareholders of the e‐healthcare industry. The speedy adoption of cloud computing has inevitably raised security concerns for the outsourced data. Since mobile devices are resource constrained, the security solutions must discharge the computing comprehensive operations on the cloud for implementation. Conventionally, any modification to uploaded record would compel the mobile client to encrypt and compute the hash value from scratch. Through this paper, we intend to propose a pairing‐free incremental proxy re‐encryption scheme, without certificates, which would run proportionate to the number of modifications in time, instead of the document length for improvement in the file modification tasks. The proposed scheme shows a significant improvement in the file modification system regarding the energy consumption and the turnaround timer taken. The proposed scheme has been verified through a formal method using Z3 solver.
Patterns of livestock depredation and cost‐effectiveness of fortified livestock enclosures in northern Tanzania
Authors: Kissui Bernard M. , Kiffner Christian , König Hannes J. , Montgomery Robert A.
Published: September 2019

Human–carnivore conflicts and retaliatory killings contribute to carnivore populations' declines around the world. Strategies to mitigate conflicts have been developed, but their efficacy is rarely assessed in a randomized case–control design. Further, the economic costs prevent the adoption and wide use of conflict mitigation strategies by pastoralists in rural Africa. We examined carnivore (African lion [Panthera leo], leopard [Panthera pardus], spotted hyena [Crocuta crocuta], jackal [Canis mesomelas], and cheetah [Acinonyx jubatus]) raids on fortified (n = 45, total 631 monthly visits) and unfortified (traditional, n = 45, total 521 monthly visits) livestock enclosures (“bomas”) in northern Tanzania. The study aimed to (a) assess the extent of retaliatory killings of major carnivore species due to livestock depredation, (b) describe the spatiotemporal characteristics of carnivore raids on livestock enclosures, (c) analyze whether spatial covariates influenced livestock depredation risk in livestock enclosures, and (d) examine the cost‐effectiveness of livestock enclosure fortification. Results suggest that (a) majority of boma raids by carnivores were caused by spotted hyenas (nearly 90% of all raids), but retaliatory killings mainly targeted lions, (b) carnivore raid attempts were rare at individual households (0.081 raid attempts/month in fortified enclosures and 0.102 raid attempts/month in unfortified enclosures), and (c) spotted hyena raid attempts increased in the wet season compared with the dry season, and owners of fortified bomas reported less hyena raid attempts than owners of unfortified bomas. Landscape and habitat variables tested, did not strongly drive the spatial patterns of spotted hyena raids in livestock bomas. Carnivore raids varied randomly both spatially (village to village) and temporally (year to year). The cost‐benefit analysis suggest that investing in boma fortification yielded positive net present values after two to three years. Thus, enclosure fortification is a cost‐effective strategy to promote coexistence of carnivores and humans.
A flexible tool to prioritize areas for conservation combining landscape units, measures of biodiversity, and threats
Authors: Ondei Stefania , Brook Barry W. , Buettel Jessie C.
Published: September 2019

Expanding the reserve system is a key strategy to enhance biodiversity protection. Yet, conservation outcomes can be undermined by underrepresentation of some habitats and opportunistic placement of protected areas. Irreplaceability and vulnerability, the key principles of conservation, should thus be combined within a bioregionalization framework to implement protection in the habitats that most need it. We proposed a simple and flexible method to prioritize bioregions for conservation based on these principles and used it to rank the 85 bioregions of the Australian continent. To do so, we quantified biodiversity values and threats in each bioregion by gathering open‐access data on species, landscapes, and land use. Bioregions were then ranked using a set of customizable scenarios, including ecologically meaningful combinations of measures of irreplaceability and vulnerability. To identify biodiverse areas under threat but potentially overlooked, we compared our results with the location of already established biodiversity hotspots (i.e., areas identified as important for biodiversity and under threat). We found that bioregions with the highest biodiversity values are predominantly located in the southwest, east, and north of the continent. Similarly, threats, particularly land clearance, are concentrated along the east coast and in the southwest. When ranking bioregions using scenarios including both threats and biodiversity values, the majority (75%) of the highest‐ranking bioregions were already included in biodiversity hotspots. For five of these bioregions, the proportion of protected land to date still falls below the 17% recommended by the Convention on Biological Diversity and thus they likely require prompt prioritization and intervention. The method proposed can support ongoing monitoring and prioritization of land units for conservation. Its simplicity and flexibility mean it can be easily adopted for different areas and adjusted to local priorities.
A review on microfluidics in the detection of food pesticide residues
Authors: Xu Bangbang , Guo Jiuchuan , Fu Yusheng , Chen Xinyu , Guo Jinhong
Published: September 2019

This paper briefly explains the food safety problems related to pesticide residues and introduces microfluidics technology as a pesticide residue detection method. Three mainstream microfluidic detection devices are detailed: one driven by liquid surface tension, one by motor siphon drive, and one by centrifugal force. The advantages and disadvantages of each are considered in an analysis of future trends in microfluidic technology for pesticide detection.
Effects of polyoxymethylene dimethyl ethers on the solubility of ethanol/diesel and hydrous ethanol/diesel fuel blends
Authors: Jin Chao , Zhang Xiyuan , Wang Xichang , Xiang Yang , Cui Xianfeng , Yin Zuoshui , Sun Xingyu , Ji Jing , Wang Gang , Liu Haifeng
Published: September 2019

Ethanol is an oxygen‐containing renewable clean fuel. The use of ethanol in engines can reduce greenhouse emissions and pollutant emissions of NOx and soot. However, ethanol has limited solubility in diesel fuel. Polyoxymethylene dimethyl ethers (PODE) can improve the miscibility and cetane number of ethanol‐diesel blend. To evaluate the solubilizing ability of PODE on the mixture of ethanol and diesel, the phase behavior of the ternary system (PODE, anhydrous ethanol, and diesel) was investigated at different ambient temperatures. Additionally, the blend can easily absorb water from ambient humidity because of the additional ethanol, which may cause phase separation. Thus, the effect of water addition on the phase behavior of the system was studied. In the current study, the blend of ethanol (100%, 98%, 95% purity) and diesel fuel was used as a solute with different diesel blending ratios. Then, PODE was gradually added into blend until phase boundaries of ternary system appeared. Results show that the ability of PODE in the blend is greatly affected by ambient temperature, particularly above 10°C. The addition of water greatly destroys the phase stability of the ternary system and increases demand for PODE due to the hydrophobicity of diesel.
The Checklist Imperative
Authors: Scriven Michael
Published: September 2019

Michael Scriven, who is situated on the valuing branch of the Evaluation Theory Tree, argues for the importance of a checklist approach in evaluation. To do so, he points to the value of the approach in other fields and industries, and then turns his attention to his own Key Evaluation Checklist. In particular, he proposes a formative evaluation that focuses on process, outcomes, and generalizability to identify key aspects of an evaluation of the Women Affirming Motherhood program.
Proposal for Evaluation of Women Affirming Motherhood
Authors: Patton Michael Quinn
Published: September 2019

Situated on the use branch of the Evaluation Theory Tree, Michael Patton draws from his experience with collective impact initiatives to explore the complexity of administering and evaluating such a program. He presents an evaluation proposal for the Women Affirming Motherhood (WAM) program that is organized around five key operating principles and that is rooted in a utilization‐focused, developmental, and principles‐focused evaluation approach. Overall, Patton argues for collaboration with an emphasis on stakeholder learning and participation.
The Case Study: The Women Affirming Motherhood Program
Authors: Dillman Lisa , Scott Caitlin , Kinarsky Alana R.
Published: September 2019

This chapter describes the Women Affirming Motherhood (WAM) program, which serves as the case study for the issue. WAM is a 2‐year‐old program in the Midwest whose mission is to provide prenatal and postnatal care to underserved women. The program is led by a former resident of the community and one of her college peers; it is largely administered by a “fleet” of social workers who visit program participants monthly and provide a range of services. WAM recently received a $1.5 million grant from a foundation interested in collective impact. While they have extensive foundation support, their collaborative work is new, and they are in the process of learning what it will entail.
Wall‐modeled large‐eddy simulation in a finite element framework
Authors: Owen Herbert , Chrysokentis Georgios , Avila Matias , Mira Daniel , Houzeaux Guillaume , Borrell Ricard , Cajas Juan Carlos , Lehmkuhl Oriol
Published: September 2019

This work studies the implementation of wall modeling for large‐eddy simulation in a finite element context. It provides a detailed description of how the approach used by the finite volume and finite differences communities is adapted to the finite element context. The new implementation is as simple and easy to implement as the classical finite element one, but it provides vastly superior results. In the typical approach used in finite elements, the mesh does not extend all the way to the wall, and the wall stress is evaluated at the first grid point, based on the velocity at the same point. Instead, we adopt the approach commonly used in finite differences, where the mesh covers the whole domain and the wall stress is obtained at the wall grid point, with the velocity evaluated at the first grid point off the wall. The method is tested in a turbulent channel flow at Reτ=2003, a neutral atmospheric boundary layer flow, and a flow over a wall‐mounted hump, with significant improvement in the results compared to the standard finite element approach. Additionally, we examine the effect of evaluating the input velocity further away from the wall, as well as applying temporal filtering on the wall‐model input.
MELD‐GRAIL‐Na: Glomerular Filtration Rate and Mortality on Liver‐Transplant Waiting List
Authors: Asrani Sumeet K. , Jennings Linda W. , Kim W.R. , Kamath Patrick S. , Levitsky Josh , Nadim Mitra K. , Testa Giuliano , Leise Michael D. , Trotter James F. , Klintmalm Goran
Published: September 2019

Background and Aims

Among patients with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation, prediction of wait‐list (WL) mortality is adjudicated by the Model for End Stage Liver Disease–Sodium (MELD‐Na) score. Replacing serum creatinine (SCr) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in the MELD‐Na score may improve prediction of WL mortality, especially for women and highest disease severity.

Approach and Results

We developed (2014) and validated (2015) a model incorporating eGFR using national data (n = 17,095) to predict WL mortality. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using the GFR assessment in liver disease (GRAIL) developed among patients with cirrhosis. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis models were used to compare the predicted 90‐day WL mortality between MELD‐GRAIL‐Na (re‐estimated bilirubin, international normalized ratio [INR], sodium, and GRAIL) versus MELD‐Na. Within 3 months, 27.8% were transplanted, 4.3% died on the WL, and 4.7% were delisted for other reasons. GFR as estimated by GRAIL (hazard ratio [HR] 0.382, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.344‐0.424) and the re‐estimated model MELD‐GRAIL‐Na (HR 1.212, 95% CI 1.199‐1.224) were significant predictors of mortality or being delisted on the WL within 3 months. MELD‐GRAIL‐Na was a better predictor of observed mortality at highest deciles of disease severity (≥ 27‐40). For a score of 32 or higher (observed mortality 0.68), predicted mortality was 0.67 (MELD‐GRAIL‐Na) and 0.51 (MELD‐Na). For women, a score of 32 or higher (observed mortality 0.67), the predicted mortality was 0.69 (MELD‐GRAIL‐Na) and 0.55 (MELD‐Na). In 2015, use of MELD‐GRAIL‐Na as compared with MELD‐Na resulted in reclassification of 16.7% (n = 672) of patients on the WL.

Conclusion

Incorporation of eGFR likely captures true GFR better than SCr, especially among women. Incorporation of MELD‐GRAIL‐Na instead of MELD‐Na may affect outcomes for 12%‐17% awaiting transplant and affect organ allocation.
Prediagnostic serum sCD27 and sCD30 in serial samples and risks of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma subtypes
Authors: Purdue Mark P. , Lan Qing , Langseth Hilde , Grimsrud Tom K. , Hildesheim Allan , Rothman Nathaniel
Published: September 2019

Elevated prediagnostic serum levels of the immune activation markers sCD27 and sCD30 have been associated with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). However, the use of a single sample per participant in these studies has limited etiologic inferences. We report findings, overall and by NHL subtype, from a case–control analysis (422 cases, 434 controls) within the Janus Serum Bank with two samples per subject collected on average 5 years apart. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) was associated with elevated sCD27 in the later, but not earlier, prediagnostic sample (odds ratio [OR] 4.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5–11.6 and 1.7, 0.7–4.7 per log increase, respectively) in analyses adjusting for both analytes, while follicular lymphoma (FL) was associated with elevated sCD30 in both the later and earlier samples (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.4–4.4 and 2.3, 1.2–4.4, respectively). CLL/SLL cases were significantly more likely than controls to have higher sCD27 in the later vs. earlier sample (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.9 per standard deviation increase); no such difference in sCD30 was apparent for FL. In a joint analysis, NHL cases were more likely than controls to have below‐median sCD27 in the earlier sample and above‐median sCD27 in the later sample (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.3). For sCD30, the association between sCD30 and FL was confined to subjects with above‐median analyte levels in both samples (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1–5.9). Our findings are compatible with elevated sCD27 representing a disease‐induced effect and sCD30 representing a marker of increased FL susceptibility.
SI‐CLP inhibits the growth of mouse mammary adenocarcinoma by preventing recruitment of tumor‐associated macrophages
Authors: Yin Shuiping , Wang Nan , Riabov Vladimir , Mossel Dieuwertje M. , Larionova Irina , Schledzewski Kai , Trofimova Olga , Sevastyanova Tatyana , Zajakina Anna , Schmuttermaier Christina , Gratchev Alexei , Flatley Andrew , Kremmer Elisabeth , Zavyalova Marina , Cherdyntseva Nadezhda , Simon‐Keller Katja , Marx Alexander , Klüter Harald , Goerdt Sergij , Kzhyshkowska Julia
Published: September 2019

Chitinase‐like proteins (CLP) are chitin‐binding proteins that lack chitin hydrolyzing activity, but possess cytokine‐like and growth factor‐like properties, and play crucial role in intercellular crosstalk. Both human and mice express two members of CLP family: YKL‐40 and stabilin‐1 interacting chitinase‐like protein (SI‐CLP). Despite numerous reports indicating the role of YKL‐40 in the support of angiogenesis, tumor cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, the role of its structurally related protein SI‐CLP in cancer was not reported. Using gain‐of‐function approach, we demonstrate in the current study that the expression of recombinant SI‐CLP in mouse TS/A mammary adenocarcinoma cells results in significant and persistent inhibition of in vivo tumor growth. Using quantitative immunohistochemistry, we show that on the cellular level this phenomenon is associated with reduced infiltration of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs), CD4+ and FoxP3+ cells in SI‐CLP expressing tumors. Gene expression analysis in TAM isolated from SI‐CLP‐expressing and control tumors demonstrated that SI‐CLP does not affect macrophage phenotype. However, SI‐CLP significantly inhibited migration of murine bone‐marrow derived macrophages and human primary monocytes toward monocyte‐recruiting chemokine CCL2 produced in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Mechanistically, SI‐CLP did not affect CCL2/CCR2 interaction, but suppressed cytoskeletal rearrangements in response to CCL2. Altogether, our data indicate that SI‐CLP functions as a tumor growth inhibitor in mouse breast cancer by altering cellular composition of TME and blocking cytokine‐induced TAM recruitment. Taking into consideration weak to absent expression of SI‐CLP in human breast cancer, it can be considered as a therapeutic protein to block TAM‐mediated support of breast tumor growth.
Mutational analysis of cervical cytology improves diagnosis of endometrial cancer: A prospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: Reijnen Casper , van der Putten Louis J.M. , Bulten Johan , Snijders Marc P.L.M. , Küsters‐Vandevelde Heidi V.N. , Sweegers Sanne , Vos Maria C. , van der Wurff Anneke A.M. , Ligtenberg Marjolijn J.L. , Massuger Leon F.A.G. , Eijkelenboom Astrid , Pijnenborg Johanna M.A.
Published: September 2019

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is traditionally diagnosed by a histopathological assessment of an endometrial biopsy, leaving up to 30% of patients undiagnosed due to technical failure or an inadequate amount of tissue. The aim of the current study is to assess whether mutational analysis of cervical cytology or pipelle endometrial biopsies improves the diagnostic accuracy of traditional histopathological diagnosis of EC. This prospective multicentre cohort study included patients surgically treated for EC or a benign gynaecological condition (control group). A Pap brush sample, cervicovaginal self‐sample, pipelle endometrial biopsy and surgical specimen of either the EC or normal endometrium were obtained. A targeted next‐generation sequencing panel was used to analyse these samples for mutations in eight genes. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values were calculated. Fifty‐nine EC patients and 31 control patients were included. In these patients, traditional histopathological diagnosis by pipelle had a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 100%. For EC patients, 97% of surgical specimens contained at least one mutation. Mutational analysis of Pap brush samples, self‐samples and pipelle endometrial biopsies yielded a sensitivity of 78, 67 and 96% with a specificity of 97, 97 and 94%, respectively. Combining one of these three methods with histopathological pipelle endometrial biopsy evaluations yielded a sensitivity of 96, 93 and 96%, respectively. Our study has shown that mutational analysis of either cervical cytology or pipelle endometrial biopsies improves diagnosis of EC. Prospective validation will support implementation in clinical practice.
Knockout model reveals the role of Nischarin in mammary gland development, breast tumorigenesis and response to metformin treatment
Authors: Dong Shengli , Ruiz‐Calderon Bernardo , Rathinam Rajamani , Eastlack Steven , Maziveyi Mazvita , Alahari Suresh K.
Published: September 2019

Previously, our lab discovered the protein Nischarin and uncovered its role in regulating cell migration and invasion via its interactions with several proteins. We subsequently described a role for Nischarin in breast cancer, in which it is frequently underexpressed. To characterize Nischarin's role in breast tumorigenesis and mammary gland development more completely, we deleted a critical region of the Nisch gene (exons 7–10) from the mouse genome and observed the effects. Mammary glands in mutant animals showed delayed terminal end bud formation but did not develop breast tumors spontaneously. Therefore, we interbred the animals with transgenic mice expressing the mouse mammary tumor virus‐polyoma middle T‐antigen (MMTV‐PyMT) oncogene. The MMTV‐PyMT mammary glands lacking Nischarin showed increased hyperplasia compared to wild‐type animal tissues. Furthermore, we observed significantly increased tumor growth and metastasis in Nischarin mutant animals. Surprisingly, Nischarin deletion decreased activity of AMPK and subsequently its downstream effectors. Given this finding, we treated these animals with metformin, which enhances AMPK activity. Here, we show for the first time, metformin activates AMPK signaling and inhibits tumor growth of Nischarin lacking PyMT tumors suggesting a potential use for metformin as a cancer therapeutic, particularly in the case of Nischarin‐deficient breast cancers.
Male callers to an Australian perinatal depression and anxiety help line—Understanding issues and concerns
Authors: Fletcher Richard , StGeorge Jennifer , Newman Louise , Wroe Jaime
Published: September 2019

There is increasing recognition of the issues facing men in the perinatal period. Vulnerability factors and issues in the partner relationship contribute to mental health risk and can impact the quality of the father–infant relationship. Yet, there is limited understanding of fathers’ help‐seeking when they or their partner are experiencing mental health issues in the context of caring for a new baby. The present study examines fathers’ contacts with the Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) National Helpline. The study reviewed contacts from fathers and their identified needs for assistance, relationship issues, and support needs; 70% of male callers (N = 129) reported concerns about the mother's mental health, and 57% were concerned about relationship breakdown. Significant numbers of men raised issues about their own mental health (43%) and many were concerned about the impact of maternal mental state on the relationship with the infant. When compared to community data, there were elevated rates of concerns about depression and anxiety. Men also described difficulties with the fathering role and with regulating their own feelings of guilt and frustration. These findings highlight the needs of men for support when a mother experiences perinatal problems and also the risk for distress in fathers.
A systematic review of functional analysis in pediatric feeding disorders
Authors: Saini Valdeep , Kadey Heather J. , Paszek Katherine J. , Roane Henry S.
Published: September 2019

We conducted a systematic review of the functional analysis of inappropriate mealtime behavior in peer‐reviewed studies in PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, and the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis between 2000‐2016. We identified 18 studies involving 86 functional analyses. We coded descriptive data and calculated summary statistics in addition to conducting a quality appraisal of the literature. We identified escape, exclusively or in part, as the maintaining reinforcer for inappropriate mealtime behavior in 92% of cases. Results indicate that differentiated functional analyses of inappropriate mealtime behavior can be obtained, and outcomes are consistent with etiological theories of food refusal behavior. We discuss procedural differences across studies as well as directions for future research.
Does the Prediction Accuracy of Osteoporotic Fractures by BMD and Clinical Risk Factors Vary With Fracture Site?
Authors: Iconaru L , Moreau M , Kinnard V , Baleanu F , Paesmans M , Karmali R , Body JJ , Bergmann P
Published: September 2019

Several clinical risk factors (CRFs) have been shown to predict the risk of fragility fractures independently of BMD, but their accuracy in the prediction of a particular fracture site has not been extensively studied. In this study based on longitudinal data from the FRISBEE cohort (Fracture Risk Brussels Epidemiological Enquiry), we evaluated if CRFs are specific for sites of incident osteoporotic fractures during follow‐up. We recruited 3560 postmenopausal women, aged 60 to 85 years, from 2007 to 2013, and surveyed yearly for the occurrence of fragility fractures during 6.2 years (median). We analyzed the association between CRFs included in the FRAX (fracture risk assessment tool) model or additional CRFs (falls, sedentary lifestyle, early untreated menopause, diabetes, use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or proton pump inhibitors) and the first incident validated major osteoporotic fracture (MOF; n = 362; vertebra, hip, shoulder, and wrist) or other major fractures (n = 74; ankle, pelvis/sacrum, elbow, knee, long bones). Uni‐ and multivariate analyses using the Cox proportional hazards model were used. For MOFs considered together, the risk of fracture was highly associated in uni‐ and multivariate analyses (p<0.01) with osteoporosis (T‐score < −2.5), prior fracture, age, BMD (assessed by DXA), and fall history (HR 2.34, 1.82,1.71, 1.38, and 1.32, respectively). For each site analyzed separately, prior OF, age, smoking, and total hip BMD remained independent predictors for hip fractures (HR 5.72, 3.98, 3.10, 2.32, and 1.92, respectively); osteoporosis, age, prior OF, glucocorticoids, and spine BMD for vertebral fracture (HR 2.08, 1.87, 1.78, 1.76, and 1.45, respectively); osteoporosis, prior OF, and femoral neck BMD (HR 1.83, 1.60, and 1.56, respectively) for wrist fracture; osteoporosis, prior OF, and spine BMD (HR 2.48, 1.78, and 1.31, respectively) for shoulder fracture; prior OF and diabetes (HR 2.62 and 2.03) for other major fractures. Thus, a prior fracture and BMD were the best predictors of fracture risk at any site. Other CRFs have a weaker predictive value, which is a function of the site of a future fracture. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
An examination of the influence of procedurally just strategies on legal cynicism among urban youth experiencing police contact
Authors: Hofer Meret S. , Womack Sean R. , Wilson Melvin N.
Published: September 2019

Adolescents experience more police‐initiated contacts resulting from relatively minor infractions than any other group, and often these interactions do not result in notable legal consequences. However, such interactions may have long‐term consequences for adolescent perceptions of the justice system. Using data from the age 15 wave of the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, our study examines associations between situational and process features of police contact and legal cynicism in adolescence, accounting for demographic characteristics, self‐reported delinquency, neighborhood context, and stop outcome. Relative to youth who experienced only vicarious police contact, youth who had direct or both direct and vicarious police contact reported higher levels of legal cynicism. Youth perceptions of procedural justice were associated with lower legal cynicism. Situational features of police contact such as harsh language and frisking were related to higher legal cynicism. Directions for future research, including the need for longitudinal research on this topic, are discussed.