bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term monitoring of Serengeti bird species occurrence, abundance, and habitat
Authors: Henao-Diaz L. Francisco , Sinclair Anthony R. E.
Published: November 2019

The Serengeti ecosystem contains one of the most diverse bird assemblages in Africa. We present here a data set consisting of abundances of bird species in different habitats of the Serengeti ecosystem over a 87‐yr time frame. This data set comprises 66,643 georeferenced occurrences for 568 species from 1929 to 2017. Most records contain feeding location, food source, distribution status, and observation locality. The records originate from three different but complementary methodologies: points, sites, and transects. The point method (bird species records 1929–2017) is based on ad hoc observations and includes rare species or those in special habitats. These points came from published records as well from the research program of A. R. E. Sinclair and colleagues. The site method (1966–2017) is based on structured observations at sites selected to represent specific habitats, and replicated within habitats and over time. At each site, birds were recorded by sight and sound over a radius of 50 m for 10 min. The transect method (1997–2011) is based on road transects covering different areas of the ecosystem. Road transects were traversed using a vehicle with observers travelling at 30 km/h. Bird species were those easily seen from a vehicle out to 50 m either side. As most transects were traversed multiple times, this method provides information on temporal change in abundance for a select set of species. No copyright restrictions apply to the use of this data set other than citing this publication.
Estimating shedding and decay rates of environmental nuclear DNA with relation to water temperature and biomass
Authors: Jo Toshiaki , Arimoto Mio , Murakami Hiroaki , Masuda Reiji , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: November 2019

Background

 Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has been recently applied to the surveillance of species distribution and composition in aquatic ecosystems. However, most eDNA studies have used mitochondrial DNA markers, and those using nuclear DNA markers are quite scarce. Moreover, although some studies reported the availability of nuclear DNA markers for eDNA analyses, the characteristics and dynamics of nuclear environmental DNA (nu‐eDNA) of macro‐organisms remain unknown. Herein, we re‐analyzed eDNA samples described in a previously published paper to investigate the shedding and decay rates of nu‐eDNA from Japanese Jack Mackerel (Trachurus japonicus) and compared them to those of mt‐eDNA (mitochondrial environmental DNA).

Materials & Methods

Tank experiments consisting of 12 combinations of four temperatures and three fish biomass levels were performed, and four tank replicates were prepared for each treatment level. Before and after removing the fish from the tanks, we sampled rearing water over time to quantify nu‐eDNA copy numbers.

Results & Discussion

Model fitting to eDNA decay curves demonstrated that nu‐eDNA decay rates increased in higher water temperature and with larger fish biomass. The estimated shedding rates of nu‐eDNA also increased with higher temperature and larger biomass. These results were generally consistent with those of mt‐eDNA. Moreover, the ratio of mt‐eDNA to nu‐eDNA shedding and concentration decreased with larger fish biomass levels, which implied that these values may be among the potential indices for estimating the age and body size of organisms from environmental samples. Our findings contribute to the understanding of eDNA characteristics and dynamics between different DNA markers and may help us to interpret future results of eDNA surveillance.
Experimental evaluation of solar still efficiencies as a basic step in treatment of wastewater
Authors: Taherizadeh Mahmoud , Farahbod Farshad , Ilkhani Alireza
Published: November 2019

The present study investigates a unit for making use of freshwater in a kiln in a practical manner. At first, in this unit, the saline wastewater flowing out of the MED unit in Mobin Petrochemical Complex enters a gravitational bed and is subjected to preliminary treatment. In the next stage, the same saline wastewater enters the first pretreatment reactor for undergoing a coagulation procedure; then, it enters a second biological reactor for undergoing both coagulation and biological treatment. Afterwards, the output current of the biological reactor enters a solar pond for the separation of the dissolved salt in the wastewater, for which, it enters an antiseptic system that uses ultraviolet (UV) for treatment. Finally, the saline wastewater is transformed into a soft treated current. In the present study, the performance of a solar condensation unit installed on the path of the output wastewater of the UV antiseptic unit has been examined. In this study, the thermal output, conduction output, and freshwater production output have been altogether subjected to practical evaluation. The results offered herein are indicative of the relative error rates equal to about 7.2% and 4.9% for thermal output of day and night, respectively. Moreover, the conduction efficiency relative errors have been about 7% and 5.6% for day and night, respectively. In addition, on average, the relative cumulative error of the thermal energy storage substrate's output was about 3.5% per day over a month.
Simulation and experimental study on carbide dissolution process of Fe‐1C‐1.42Cr‐bearing steel
Authors: Su Fuyong , Liu Wenli , Wang Hui , Wen Zhi
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the distribution of C and Cr in the microsegregation of Fe‐1C‐1.42Cr‐bearing steel was measured by experimental and numerical simulation methods. Melting points of the low‐melting zones were calculated with the Thermo‐Calc system; and then the verifications were made by heat treatment experiments and the temperature and time required for the bulk carbide dissolution process of bearing steel were tested. Bulk carbides could be dissolved by soaking for 60 minutes above 1260°C.
Rotational speed adjustment of axial flow fans to maximize net power output for direct dry cooling power generating units
Authors: Chen Lei , Sun Yuan , Yang Lijun , Du Xiaoze , Yang Yongping
Published: November 2019

The power consumption of axial flow fans may account for more than 1% of the rated power output of the power generating unit, so it is of benefit to the energy efficiency of the power generating unit to propose an operation adjustment approach to axial flow fans. On the basis of representative 2 × 600 MW direct dry cooling generating units, a computational model of air‐side flow and heat transfer of an air‐cooled condenser (ACC) combined with exhaust steam condensation is developed, by which the airflow rate, inlet air temperature of ACCs, the power consumption of axial flow fans, turbine backpressure, and net power output of power generating units at various wind speeds and in various wind directions are obtained. The results show that the net power output in the presence of winds always decreases when the rational speeds of the first upwind row axial flow fans increase from the rated speed of 79  rpm by 10% to 86.9 rpm. However, the net power output will increase in various wind directions if the rational speeds of all the fans except the upwind first row fans increase to 86.9 rpm. This can contribute to the optimal operation of the ACC by rotational speed adjustment of axial flow fans.
Environmental Goals Addressed in Assessments of Contaminated Sediments
Authors: Bruce Peter , Ohlsson Yvonne
Published: November 2019

Environmental management often aims at sustainability and at implementing goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Several of these goals rely upon healthy sediments, implying that contaminated sediments need to be addressed in environmental management. In Sweden, the SDGs and national environmental objectives are meant to be central in environmental management. However, in environmental risk assessment (ERA) for contaminated sediments, it is not clear to assessors or authorities in Sweden which goals to consider and how. In the present study, we explore which environmental goals ERAs of contaminated sediment should consider, according to representatives from Swedish regulatory and advisory authorities, and to what extent ERAs consider those goals in practice in Sweden. The identified goals indicated that protection of aquatic ecosystems and associated services is a main priority for the authorities. The ERAs analyzed showed that most identified goals were addressed, albeit not consistently. Furthermore, risk assessors seem to put less weight on ecological aspects than authorities do. This indicates that authorities need to stress the importance of environmental aspects and provide guidance on how to address them. Several environmental goals were found to be directly relevant to contaminated sediments and ERAs can contribute to their fulfillment, given that ERA is a basis for management decisions. However, practitioners need clearer guidance on which goals to address and how. Finally, there seems to be good potential for implementation of the SDGs in environmental management in Sweden, due to existing legislation based on sustainable development and well-anchored national environmental objectives that overlap with the SDGs. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2019;00:1–12. © 2019 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)
Risk of mature B‐cell neoplasms and precursor conditions after joint replacement: A report from the Haematological Malignancy Research Network
Authors: Kane Eleanor , Painter Daniel , Smith Alexandra , Lamb Maxine , Oliver Steven E. , Patmore Russell , Roman Eve
Published: November 2019

Associations between previous joint replacement and B‐cell lymphoid malignancies have been reported, but despite numerous reports, associations with the disease subtypes have received little attention. Using a UK‐based register of haematological malignancies and a matched general population‐based cohort, joint replacements from linked hospital inpatient records were examined. Cases diagnosed 2009–2015 who were aged 50 years or more were included; 8,013 mature B‐cell neoplasms comprising myeloma (n = 1,763), diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL, n = 1,676), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL, n = 1,594), marginal zone lymphoma (MZL, n = 957), follicular lymphoma (FL, n = 725) and classical Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL, n = 255), together with monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance (MGUS, n = 2,138) and monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL, n = 632). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated relative to 10 age‐ and sex‐matched controls using conditional logistic regression. Having had a joint replacement before diagnosis was associated with myeloma (OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.5, p = 0.008) and MGUS (OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.5, p < 0.001). Excluding replacements in the year before diagnosis, the MGUS risk remained, elevated where two or more joints were replaced (OR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–2.0, p = 0.001), with hip (OR = 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.5, p = 0.06) or knee replacements (OR = 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–1.8, p < 0.001). Associations with CHL and two or more replacements (OR = 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–5.6, p = 0.005) or hip replacements (OR = 1.9, 95% CI 1.0–3.4, p = 0.04); and between DLBCL and knee replacements (OR = 1.3, 95% CI 1.0–1.6, p = 0.04) were also observed. Our study reports for the first time a relationship between joint replacements and MGUS; while absolute risks of disease are low and not of major public health concern, these findings warrant further investigation.
Spatiotemporally controlled induction of gene expression in vivo allows tracking the fate of tumor cells that traffic through the lymphatics
Authors: Grau Nicole , Scherer Sandra D. , Rothley Melanie , Roßwag Sven , Thiele Wilko , Stoecklein Nikolas H. , Cremers Natascha , Thaler Sonja , Garvalov Boyan K. , Sleeman Jonathan P.
Published: November 2019

Metastasis is a multistep process, during which circulating tumor cells traffic through diverse anatomical locations. Stable inducible marking of tumor cells in a manner that is tightly spatially and temporally controlled would allow tracking the contribution of cells passing through specific locations to metastatic dissemination. For example, tumor cells enter the lymphatic system and can form metastases in regional lymph nodes, but the relative contribution of tumor cells that traffic through the lymphatic system to the formation of distant metastases remains controversial. Here, we developed a novel genetic switch based on mild transient warming (TW) that allows cells to be marked in a defined spatiotemporal manner in vivo. Prior to warming, cells express only EGFP. Upon TW, the EGFP gene is excised and expression of mCherry is permanently turned on. We employed this system in an experimental pancreatic cancer model and used localized TW to induce the genetic switch in tumor cells trafficking through tumor‐draining lymph nodes. Thereby we found that tumor cells disseminating via the lymphatics make a major contribution to the seeding of lung metastases. The inducible genetic marking system we have developed is a powerful tool for the tracking of metastasizing cells in vivo.
The spectrum of semicyclic holey group divisible designs with block size three
Authors: Wang Lidong , Feng Tao , Pan Rong , Wang Xiaomiao
Published: November 2019

We determine a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of semicyclic holey group divisible designs with block size three and group type . New recursive constructions on semicyclic incomplete holey group divisible designs are introduced to settle this problem completely.
Long noncoding RNA LINC00629 restrains the progression of gastric cancer by upregulating AQP4 through competitively binding to miR‐196b‐5p
Authors: Li Jun , Wang Lei , He Fang , Li Bo , Han Ruidong
Published: November 2019

Gastric cancer continues to be a common cancer in the world with high incidence and mortality. Accumulating evidence has implicated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in gastric cancer progression. Here, this study identified the potential role of a novel lncRNA, LINC00629 in gastric cancer and to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Initially, microarray‐based gene expression profiling of gastric cancer was employed to identify differentially expressed genes. Next, the expression of LINC00629, microRNA‐196b‐5p (miR‐196b‐5p) and aquaporin 4 (AQP4) in clinical gastric cancer tissues was determined and the cell line presenting with the lowest LINC00629 expression was selected. The interaction among LINC00629, miR‐196b‐5p, and AQP4 was identified. Expression of LINC00629, miR‐196b‐5p, and AQP4 in gastric cancer cells were altered and then biological behaviors of gastric cancer cells were assessed by 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine and Transwell assays. Tumor formation in vivo was evaluated in nude mice. In gastric cancer, expression of LINC00629 and AQP4 was downregulated, and expression of miR‐196b‐5p was upregulated. Proliferation, invasion, and migration of gastric cancer cells were reduced after overexpression of LINC00629. LINC00629 competitively bound to miR‐196b‐5p, while AQP4 was a target of miR‐196b‐5p. Either downregulating miR‐196b‐5p or upregulating AQP4 could restrain the development of gastric cancer in vitro. LINC00629 overexpression repressed the growth of transplanted tumors in vivo. Taken together, LINC00629 competitively bound to miR‐196b‐5p to upregulate AQP4 expression, thereby inhibiting gastric cancer progression. Therefore, understanding of this mechanism may help to improve gastric cancer treatment.
miR‐488 mediates negative regulation of the AKT/NF‐κB pathway by targeting Rac1 in LPS‐induced inflammation
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Guo Shuai , Jiang Kangfeng , Zhang Tao , Zhiming Wu , Yaping Yang , Jing Yang , Shaukat Aftab , Deng Ganzhen
Published: November 2019

Endometritis is an inflammatory change in the structure of the endometrium due to various causes and is a common cause of infertility. Studies have confirmed that microRNAs (miRNAs) play a key regulatory role in various inflammatory diseases. However, the miRNA‐mediated mechanism of endometrial inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) remains unclear. In this study, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, immunofluorescence and Rac family small GTPase 1 (Rac1) interference were used to reveal the overexpression of miR‐488 in the LPS‐induced bovine uterus, and the effect of protein kinase B κ‐light chain enhancement of the nuclear factor‐activated B cells (AKT/NF‐κB) pathway in intimal epithelial cells. The results showed that the expression of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐α in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group when miR‐488 was overexpressed. Similar results were observed in the expression levels of p‐AKT, p‐IKK, and p‐p65 proteins. In addition, the dual‐luciferase reporter system confirmed that miRNA‐488 may directly target the 3′‐untranslated region of Rac1. In turn, the expression of Rac1 was inhibited. Moreover, the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB was inhibited, and meanwhile, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells was reduced. Thus, we provide basic data for the negative regulation of miR‐488 in LPS‐induced inflammation by inhibiting ROS production and the AKT/NF‐kB pathway in intimal epithelial cells.
Brief exposure to hyperglycemia activates dendritic cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Thomas Aline M. , Dong Ying , Beskid Nicholas M. , García Andrés J. , Adams Andrew B. , Babensee Julia E.
Published: November 2019

Dendritic cells are key players in regulating immunity. These cells both activate and inhibit the immune response depending on their cellular environment. Their response to hyperglycemia, a condition common amongst diabetics wherein glucose is abnormally elevated, remains to be elucidated. In this study, the phenotype and immune response of dendritic cells exposed to hyperglycemia were characterized in vitro and in vivo using the streptozotocin‐induced diabetes model. Dendritic cells were shown to be sensitive to hyperglycemia both during and after differentiation from bone marrow precursor cells. Dendritic cell behavior under hyperglycemic conditions was found to vary by phenotype, among which, tolerogenic dendritic cells were particularly sensitive. Expression of the costimulatory molecule CD86 was found to reliably increase when dendritic cells were exposed to hyperglycemia. Additionally, hydrogel‐based delivery of the anti‐inflammatory molecule interleukin‐10 was shown to partially inhibit these effects in vivo.
Clinical significance of early‐diastolic tissue velocity imaging of lateral mitral annulus for prognosis of nonischemic left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Kim Hyungseop , Kim In‐Cheol , Choi Sang‐Woong , Chung Jin‐Wook , Kim Jin Young
Published: November 2019

Purpose

We explored the potential of tissue velocity imaging (TVI) for prognosis of nonischemic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction (LVD).

Methods

We reviewed 138 nonischemic LVD patients (58 ± 14 years) who underwent both cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and echocardiography. Septal and lateral mitral annular TVI data were compared with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on CMR. During a mean follow‐up of 24 months, recovery (>15%) of LV ejection fraction and clinical outcomes (cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization) were assessed.

Results

LGE was commonly observed in the basal anteroseptal, inferoseptal, and inferior segments, but infrequently observed in the anterolateral segment. LGE was associated with lower early diastolic, septal (Sep‐e′ = 5.2 ± 2.0 vs 6.9 ± 2.0 cm/s, P = .031) and lateral (Lat‐e′ = 7.3 ± 3.0 vs 9.5 ± 2.0 cm/s, P < .001) TVI. The relationship between Lat‐e′ and anterolateral LGE (area under the curve, AUC 0.834) was much better than that between Sep‐e′ and inferoseptal LGE (AUC 0.699). The 60 patients with LVD reversibility revealed higher Lat‐e′ (9.8 ± 2.0 vs 6.7 ± 2.2 cm/s, P < .001) and lower LGE burden (7.3 ± 9.0 vs 22 ± 10%, P < .001), while Lat‐e′ ≤ 7.8 cm/s appeared unfavorable for 31 events patients. On multivariate analyses, Lat‐e′ (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63‐0.99, P = .044) and LVD reversibility (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.16‐0.90, P = .018) were still meaningful together with LGE segments and burden.

Conclusion

Lat‐e′ was related with LVD reversibility and a significant predictor of clinical outcomes.
Engaging men in HIV programmes: a qualitative study of male engagement in community‐based antiretroviral refill groups in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mantell Joanne E , Masvawure Tsitsi B , Mapingure Munyaradzi , Apollo Tsitsi , Gwanzura Clorata , Block Laura , Bennett Eleanor , Preko Peter , Musuka Godfrey , Rabkin Miriam
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Suboptimal male engagement in HIV programmes is a persistent challenge, leading to lower coverage of HIV testing, prevention and treatment services, and to worse outcomes for men. Differentiated service delivery models, such as peer‐led community antiretroviral refill groups (CARGs), offer the opportunity to enhance patient satisfaction, retention and treatment outcomes. We conducted an exploratory qualitative study to identify facilitators and barriers to CARG participation by HIV‐positive men, with inputs from recipients of HIV care, community members, healthcare workers (HCWs), donors and policymakers.

Methods

Between July and October 2017, we conducted 20 focus group discussions (FGDs) with 147 adults living with HIV, including men and women enrolled in CARGs and men not enrolled in CARGs, and 46 key informant interviews (KIIs) with policymakers, donors, HCWs and community members. FGDs and KIIs were recorded, transcribed and translated. A constant comparison approach was used to triangulate findings and identify themes related to male engagement in CARGs in rural Zimbabwe.

Results

CARG participants, policymakers, donors, HCWs, and community members noted many advantages to CARG participation, including convenience, efficiency, solidarity and mutual psychosocial support. Although those familiar with CARGs reported that these groups decreased HIV‐related stigma, concerns about stigma and privacy were perceived to be the primary reason for men’s non‐participation. Other important barriers to male enrolment included lack of awareness of CARGs, misunderstanding of how CARGs operate, few perceived benefits and lack of flexibility in CARG implementation.

Conclusions

More effective educational and awareness campaigns, community‐based anti‐stigma campaigns, more flexible CARG designs, and provision of financial and/or in‐kind support to CARG members could mitigate many of the barriers to male enrolment in CARGs. Men may also prefer alternative differentiated service delivery models that are facility‐based and/or do not require group participation.
Phenylketonuria, co‐morbidity, and ageing: A review
Authors: Vardy Emma R.L.C. , MacDonald Anita , Ford Suzanne , Hofman Denise L.
Published: November 2019

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic condition which, left untreated, results in severe and irreversible brain damage. Newborn screening and the development of the low phenylalanine (Phe) diet have transformed the outcomes for people with PKU. Those who have benefited from early treatment are now approaching their fifth and sixth decade. It is therefore timely to consider multi‐morbidity in PKU and the effects of ageing, in parallel with the wider benefits of emerging treatment options in addition to dietary relaxation. We have conducted the first literature review of co‐morbidity and ageing in the context of PKU. Avenues explored have emerged from limited study of multi‐morbidity to date and the knowledge and critical enquiry of the authors. Findings suggest PKU to have a wider impact than brain development, and result in several intriguing questions that require investigation to attain the best outcomes for people with PKU in adulthood moving through to older age. We recognise the difficulty in studying longitudinal outcomes in rare diseases and emphasise the necessity to develop PKU registries and cohorts that facilitate well‐designed studies to answer some of the questions raised in this review. Whilst awaiting new information in these areas we propose that clinicians engage with patients to make personalised and well‐informed decisions around Phe control and assessment for co‐morbidity.
Long bone histology of Chersina angulata : Interelement variation and life history data
Authors: Bhat Mohd Shafi , Chinsamy Anusuya , Parkington John
Published: November 2019

The current study deduced the growth pattern and lifestyle habits of Chersina angulata based on bone histology and cross‐sectional geometry of limb bones. Femora, humeri, and tibiae of seven different‐sized individuals representing different ontogenetic stages were assessed to determine the interelement and intraskeletal histological variation within and among the tortoises. The bone histology of adult propodials consists of a highly vascularized, uninterrupted fibrolamellar bone tissue with a woven texture in the perimedullary and midcortical regions suggesting overall fast early growth. However, later in ontogeny, growth was slow and even ceased periodically as suggested by slowly formed parallel‐fibered bone tissue and several growth marks in the pericortical region. In juvenile individuals, fibrolamellar bone tissue is restricted to the perimedullary regions of propodials as remnants of bone formed during the earliest stages of ontogeny. The epipodials are characterized by having parallel‐fibered bone tissue present in their cortices; however, periodic arrests in growth are recorded at various times. Remnants of fibrolamellar bone tissue formed during early ontogeny occur in the epipodials of only a few individuals. Interelement variation is evident, in terms of variation in the orientation of vascular canals between individuals and within the same diaphyseal cross‐sections. Different elements show varying cross‐sectional geometry, which appear to be correlated with the fossorial behavior of the species. Our results show that of all the long bones, the tibia is least remodeled during ontogeny and it is therefore the best element for skeletochronology.
A multilevel review of stressor research in teams
Authors: Razinskas Stefan , Hoegl Martin
Published: November 2019

The contemporary work environment is characterized by an ongoing trend to embed employees in teams because of their expected abilities for handling complex tasks and integrating diverse sets of knowledge and skills. However, leveraging this potential is endangered by stimuli within and outside of teams that take a toll on cohesion and teamwork among team members. Understanding the role that stressors and demands play in the work‐related functioning of teams and their members is therefore an increasingly important challenge in the organizational behavior literature. Whereas research on stressors and demands has primarily focused on the individual level, we expand the research scope by considering these phenomena to be multilevel. We perform an interdisciplinary review of the literature on these stimuli in teams and show how related research, such as that on destructive leadership, may benefit from a more balanced account and integration of frameworks on stressors. Our multilevel review is informative for the literature on stressors and demands at the individual and team levels, as it offers an important conceptual grounding for how and why various stimuli in this social environment differentially influence both the collective entity and its individual team members.
Synoptic characteristics of extreme heatwaves over the Korean Peninsula based on ERA Interim reanalysis data
Authors: Min Ki‐Hong , Chung Chia‐Hui , Bae Jeong‐Ho , Cha Dong‐Hyun
Published: November 2019

The characteristics of heatwaves (HWs) in South Korea are studied using data from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis Interim (ERA Interim) dataset and from automatic surface weather stations. The synoptic conditions of three specific years (1994, 2013, and 2016) during which serious HWs affected South Korea are examined. HWs in South Korea are related to the northwestwardly extension of the western North Pacific subtropical high (WNPSH) toward the Korean Peninsula. Examination of the blocking indices revealed widespread blocking over the northern Pacific Ocean and Asia during South Korean HWs, and blocking is related to stationary weather patterns. The severe temperatures associated with HWs in this region are due to prolonged subsidence. Analysis of the moist static energy (MSE) budget indicated that the energy source of subsidence is derived from both MSE advection and the net heat flux. When compared to the synoptic situation during an HW in South Korea, the relative southward movement of the WNPSH is found before and after the HW. The blocking indices also revealed weak signals and changes in vertical motion due to MSE advection.
6‐Shogaol, an active ingredient of ginger, inhibits osteoclastogenesis and alveolar bone resorption in ligature‐induced periodontitis in mice
Authors: Kim Yong‐Gun , Kim Myoung Ok , Kim Sung‐Hyun , Kim Hyo Jeong , Pokhrel Nitin Kumar , Lee Ji Hye , Lee Heon‐Jin , Kim Jae‐Young , Lee Youngkyun
Published: November 2019

Background

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the tissues surrounding teeth that causes destruction of connective tissues. During the progress of periodontitis, osteoclasts are solely accountable for the resorption of alveolar bones that leads to the loss of teeth if not properly treated. Thus, the development of effective anti‐resorptive therapies will greatly benefit the treatment of periodontitis patients. In the present study, we suggest an inhibitory effect of 6‐shogaol, an ingredient of ginger, on osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption.

Methods

Mouse bone marrow cells were cultured in the presence of macrophage‐colony stimulating factor and receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL) to investigate the effect of 6‐shogaol on osteoclast differentiation and intracellular signaling pathways. 6‐shogaol significantly reduced osteoclast differentiation, actin ring formation, and resorption. In the presence of 6‐shogaol, osteoclast signaling including the RANKL‐induced activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases, Ca2+oscillation, generation of reactive oxygen species, and nuclear factor of activated T‐cells, cytoplasmic 1 nuclear translocation was significantly inhibited in vitro. Furthermore, a ligature‐induced periodontitis model in mice was used to determine the role of 6‐shogaol in vivo.

Results

The administration of 6‐shogaol prevented osteoclastogenesis and alveolar bone resorption induced by ligature. Furthermore, the ligature‐induced number of macrophages and neutrophils as well as the expression of interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐α were considerably lower in the periodontal tissues following shogaol injection.

Conclusion

These results confirm the anti‐osteoclastogenic effect of 6‐shogaol and suggest the possibility of application as an anti‐resorptive strategy in periodontitis.
Smoking and gastrointestinal cancer patients—is smoking cessation an attainable goal?
Authors: Barrett James R. , Cherney‐Stafford Linda , Alagoz Esra , Piper Megan E. , Cook Jessica , Campbell‐Flohr Stephanie , Weber Sharon M. , Winslow Emily R. , Ronnkleiv‐Kelly Sean M. , Abbott Daniel E.
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

Negative consequences of tobacco use during cancer treatment are well‐documented but more in‐depth, patient‐level data are needed to understand patient beliefs about continued smoking (vs cessation) during gastrointestinal (GI) cancer treatment.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 10 patients who were active smokers being treated for GI cancers and 5 caregivers of such patients. All interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and uploaded to NVivo. We consensus coded data inductively using conventional content analysis and iteratively developed our codebook. We developed data matrices to categorize the themes regarding patient perspectives on smoking as well as presumed barriers to smoking cessation during active therapy.

Results

Our interviews revealed three consistent themes: (a) Smoking cessation is not necessarily desired by many patients who have received a cancer diagnosis; (b) Failure in past quit attempts may lead to feelings of hopeless about future attempts, especially during cancer treatment; (c) Patients perceived little to no access to smoking cessation treatment at the time of their cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions

Well‐designed systemic changes that promote the positive and efficacious effects of quitting smoking during cancer treatment, and that provide barrier‐free access to such treatments may be helpful in promoting tobacco‐free behavior during cancer treatment.
Sulcus Vocalis: Results of Excision Without Reconstruction
Authors: Andreadis Katerina , Hoffman Katherine , D'Angelo Debra , Sulica Lucian
Published: November 2019

Objective

Sulcus is an epithelial invagination of the membranous vocal fold. Its phonatory effects are usually attributed to fibrosis, thinning, and/or the absence of the superficial lamina propria (SLP). Surgical treatment is typically focused on reconstruction of the SLP. The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of excision without SLP reconstruction or replacement.

Methods

Records of patients who underwent surgical treatment of sulcus vocalis (Ford type 3) by excision without reconstruction were reviewed for demographic and historical information. Pre‐ and postoperative stroboscopic examinations were evaluated blindly by fellowship‐trained laryngologists using a modified Voice‐Vibratory Assessment with Laryngeal Imaging assessment. A Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used to compare pre‐ and postoperative amplitude, mucosal wave, nonvibrating portion, regularity, erythema, and vascularity.

Results

Examinations of 16 vocal folds in 13 patients (8 females:5 males; mean age = 30 years, range 13 to 48 years) were evaluated by six raters each, yielding 168 sets of observations. Statistically significant improvement was seen in amplitude (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.6,14.3), mucosal wave (95% CI 6.1, 17.9), nonvibrating portion (95% CI −19.6, −2.7), erythema (95% CI −19.9, −3.3), and vascularity (95% CI −19.0, −0.75). The parameter of regularity, although improved, did not prove to be significant.

Conclusion

Excision alone appears to be an adequate and generally successful treatment for sulcus vocalis (Ford type 3). In contrast to established paradigms, restoration of the SLP does not appear to be essential to meaningful clinical improvement. Significant pathologic effects of sulcus vocalis may result from epithelial abnormalities alone.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:2208–2212, 2020
Person identification with limited training data using radar micro‐Doppler signatures
Authors: Lang Yue , Wang Qing , Yang Yang , Hou Chunping , He Yuan , Xu Jinchen
Published: November 2019

Radar‐based human micro‐Doppler analysis has been the subject of much investigation in recent years. Apart from the conventional activity classification task, person identification based on human movement signal has emerged as a research interest. This paper presents a method to recognize a person's identity from varied human motions using an ultra‐wideband radar. The human movement data is captured in an indoor environment and is then transformed into micro‐Doppler spectrograms for identification. Moreover, as it is always challenging to construct large scale radar datasets in practice, we adopt a plain convolutional neural network with a multi‐scale feature aggregation strategy to address the identification problem. Experimental results show that the micro‐Doppler signatures have great potential in person identification, and our model presents relative satisfying performances limited training set. Especially, when “walking” is used for identification, our approach achieves a person identification accuracy of 96.8% for the four targets used.
Design of broadband hybrid class EF power amplifier based on novel capacitance compensation structure
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Cheng Zhiqun , Ke Huajie , Liu Guohua , Sun Hao , Gao Steven
Published: November 2019

The operating frequency of traditional hybrid class‐EF power amplifiers is limited by the drain‐source output capacitance. This article proposes a novel wideband compensation circuit structure (CCS) for the drain‐source output capacitance. The drain of the transistor is connected in parallel with a wideband CCS to obtain the required output capacitance of the transistor, which improves the operating frequency of the hybrid class‐EF power amplifier and maintains high efficiency over a wide frequency band. Meanwhile, the wideband CCS is connected in parallel with the gate of transistor to suppress harmonics, thereby improving output power and efficiency. In order to validate the effectiveness of the proposed structure, a broadband high‐efficiency hybrid class‐EF power amplifier is fabricated by employing the CGH40010F GaN HEMT. The measurements show that the output power is 40.4 to 41.3 dBm, the drain efficiency is 67% to 72%, and the gain is 10.5 to 11.3 dB in the range of 1.6 to 2.6 GHz. The adjacent channel power ratio is under −30 dBc when using 20 MHz LTE signal without digital predistortion.
Establishing standards for acceptable waveforms in nerve conduction studies
Authors:   AANEM Professional Practice Committee
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The purpose of this position statement is to clarify what constitutes an acceptable nerve conduction study (NCS) waveform in the practice of electrodiagnostic (EDx) medicine.

Methods

The American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine convened an expert panel to analyze the typical deficiencies of NCS waveforms seen when performed by unqualified providers and/or providers using substandard equipment and also to describe basic standards that all proper NCS waveforms should meet.

Results

An acceptable NCS waveform should include clearly identifiable polarity, configuration, onset, peak(s), and return to baseline.

Discussion

Only NCSs performed using appropriate EDx equipment and interpreted by trained physicians can accurately measure the speed of nerve conduction and amplitude of the nerve response. If these parameters cannot be clearly identified, then the waveform should be considered substandard and should not be submitted for reimbursement according to the Current Procedural Terminology guidelines of the American Medical Association.
Using propensity score matching with doses in observational studies: An example from a child physical abuse and sleep quality study
Authors: Ji Xiaopeng , Cui Naixue , Liu Jianghong
Published: November 2019

Both physical abuse and poor sleep quality are public health concerns among adolescents, particularly in mainland China, but examining any causal effect of physical abuse on adolescents’ sleep quality using a randomized controlled trial is not possible for obvious ethical reasons. Researchers have proposed the use of propensity score matching with doses to minimize overt bias and estimate the effect of multidose treatments or varying degrees of risk exposure in observational studies. In this paper, we demonstrate the propensity score methods with a focus on matching with doses in an examination of the relationship between physical abuse levels (frequency and number of perpetrators) and self‐reported sleep quality among adolescents. Secondary analyses were conducted using data from the China Jintan Child Cohort. The sample comprised 707 adolescents (13.16 ± 0.90 years old) who had complete data on physical abuse, sleep, and covariates. Propensity scores were computed from eight covariates and used to carry out pair matching, matching with the frequency of abusive experience, and matching with the number of perpetrators. The standardized differences of covariates suggested an acceptable balance between groups after matching. The results derived from matching sets consistently indicated that adolescents being physically abused by parent(s) have worse sleep quality. Despite its inherent limitations, propensity score matching with doses provides a useful tool for nurse researchers analyzing observational data.
Non‐linear rheological response as a tool for assessing dispersion in polypropylene/polycaprolactone/clay nanocomposites and blends made with sub‐critical gas‐assisted processing
Authors: Ellingham Thomas , Yilmaz Galip , Turng Lih‐Sheng
Published: November 2019

Polypropylene (PP) was blended with polycaprolactone (PCL) and nanoclay (NC) in a twin‐screw extruder (TSE) using a traditional extrusion process and a sub‐critical gas‐assisted process (SGAP). SGAP is a new and facile processing method that injects compressed gas (CO2or N2) at low pressures (~10 bars) into the barrel of the extruder to induce rapid and repetitive foaming and resolubilization as the melt travels through regions of high pressure and low pressure. Bubble expansion during foaming introduces an equibiaxial elongational flow not otherwise generated in TSE, adding to the total stress the polymer matrix can exert to break up nanoparticle agglomerates and reduce the droplet size of secondary polymers in blends. Impact, morphology, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) properties confirmed a smaller PCL phase droplet size and an increase in dispersion of the NC when SGAP was used. Standard small amplitude oscillatory (SAOS) rheological tests for the storage modulusG′were not sensitive enough to discern the difference between the traditionally extruded samples and the SGAP samples. However, the zero‐strain non‐linearity parameter,Q0, determined by the Fourier‐Transform rheology, was able to distinguish the enhanced dispersive and mixing capabilities of SGAP. Practical implications of SGAP and Fourier‐Transform (FT) rheology are also discussed in this paper. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:55–60, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Combination of Phosphorous Flame Retardants and Aluminum Trihydrate in Multicomponent EPDM Composites
Authors: Zirnstein Benjamin , Schulze Dietmar , Schartel Bernhard
Published: November 2019

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubbers with the flame retardants tris(2‐ethylhexyl)phosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, polyaniline, and aluminum trihydroxide were prepared and analyzed in this study. The homogenous dispersion of the fillers in the rubber matrix was confirmed by scanning electron microscope. To investigate the interplay of the different flame retardants, the flame retardants were varied systematically. The comprehensive study sought combinations of flame retardants that allow high loadings of flame retardants without deterioration of the physical and mechanical properties of the EPDM rubber. The eight EPDM rubbers were investigated via thermogravimetric analysis and pyrolysis gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (Py‐GC/MS) to investigate the potential synergistic effects. In the Py‐GC/MS experiments, 27 pyrolysis products were identified. Furthermore, UL 94, limiting oxygen index, FMVSS 302, glow wire tests, and cone calorimeter tests were carried out. In the cone calorimeter test the EPDM rubbers R‐1AP and R‐1/2P achieved an increase in residue at flameout of 76% and a reduction in total heat evolved of about 35%. Furthermore, the compounds R‐1AP and R‐1/2P achieved a reduction in MAHRE to about 150 kW m−1, a reduction of over 50% compared to the unprotected rubber R. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60: 267–280, 2019. © 2019 The Authors. Polymer Engineering & Science published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Plastics Engineers.
Large Graphene Oxide Flakes: From Isotopic to Nematic Liquid Crystal Phase Transition
Authors: Shahini Sharif , Campidelli Stéphane , Scalia Giusy
Published: November 2019

Herein, graphene oxide (GO) with large flakes of average size 38 μm is studied, following the isotropic–nematic phase transition over time and determining the critical concentration, i.e., the minimum value for the formation of the pure liquid crystal (LC) phase. The GO flakes in aqueous suspensions can form LC phases, which are attractive for various applications because of their exceptional properties. Stability over time is very important for their applications, especially, if the GO suspension is in the biphase concentration region in which a crucial change can occur—the isotropic LC phase separation. GO LCs have a wide biphase region, and even very low concentration suspensions appear purely nematic when prepared. However, over time, they appear to be biphasic and higher concentrations are needed for pure LC phase. The changes in the critical concentration were followed for over 4 months, and the findings indicate that it increases with time until it reaches a stable value that is, nevertheless, very low in concentration, 0.7 mg mL−1 (0.035 vol%). From the stable threshold volume fraction, the effective flake thickness, relevant in the LC phase formation behavior, is estimated. This value is almost double than what is measured by atomic force microscopy.
Rat Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Sheets Suppress Renal Fibrosis via Microvascular Protection
Authors: Imafuku Aya , Oka Masatoshi , Miyabe Yoei , Sekiya Sachiko , Nitta Kosaku , Shimizu Tatsuya
Published: November 2019

Renal fibrosis is one of the largest global health care problems, and microvascular (MV) injury is important in the development of progressive fibrosis. Although conventional cell therapy suppresses kidney injury via the role of vasoprotective cytokines, the effects are limited due to low retention of administered cells. We recently described that transplantation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-transgenic mesothelial cell sheets showed a remarkable cell survival and strong therapeutic effects in a rat renal fibrosis model. Due to the translational hurdles of transgenic cells, we here applied this technique for allogeneic transplantation using rat bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). MSC sheets were transplanted onto the kidney surface of a rat renal ischemia–reperfusion-injury model and the effects were compared between those in untreated rats and those receiving intravenous (IV) administration of the cells. We found that donor-cell survival was superior in the cell sheet group relative to the IV group, and that the cell sheets secreted HGF and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) up to day 14. Transplantation of cell sheets increased the expression of activated HGF/VEGF receptors in the kidney. There was no evidence of migration of transplanted cells into the kidney parenchyma. Additionally, the cell sheets significantly suppressed renal dysfunction, MV injury, and fibrosis as compared with that observed in the untreated and IV groups. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the MSC sheet protected MV density in the whole kidney according to three-dimensional microcomputed tomography. In conclusion, MSC sheets strongly prevented renal fibrosis via MV protection, suggesting that this strategy represents a potential novel therapy for various kidney diseases. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:1330&1341