bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Supporting, Flexible, Additive‐Free, and Scalable Hard Carbon Paper Self‐Interwoven by 1D Microbelts: Superb Room/Low‐Temperature Sodium Storage and Working Mechanism
Authors: Hou Bao‐Hua , Wang Ying‐Ying , Ning Qiu‐Li , Li Wen‐Hao , Xi Xiao‐Tong , Yang Xu , Liang Hao‐Jie , Feng Xi , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: August 2019

Hard carbon is regarded as a promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, it usually suffers from the issues of low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) and poor rate performance, severely hindering its practical application. Herein, a flexible, self‐supporting, and scalable hard carbon paper (HCP) derived from scalable and renewable tissue is rationally designed and prepared as practical additive‐free anode for room/low‐temperature SIBs with high ICE. In ether electrolyte, such HCP achieves an ICE of up to 91.2% with superior high‐rate capability, ultralong cycle life (e.g., 93% capacity retention over 1000 cycles at 200 mA g−1) and outstanding low‐temperature performance. Working mechanism analyses reveal that the plateau region is the rate‐determining step for HCP with a lower electrochemical reaction kinetics, which can be significantly improved in ether electrolyte.
Mechanoresponsive Polymerized Liquid Metal Networks
Authors: Thrasher Carl J. , Farrell Zachary J. , Morris Nicholas J. , Willey Carson L. , Tabor Christopher E.
Published: August 2019

Room‐temperature liquid metals, such as nontoxic gallium alloys, show enormous promise to revolutionize stretchable electronics for next‐generation soft robotic, e‐skin, and wearable technologies. Core–shell particles of liquid metal with surface‐bound acrylate ligands are synthesized and polymerized together to create cross‐linked particle networks comprising >99.9% liquid metal by weight. When stretched, particles within these polymerized liquid metal networks (Poly‐LMNs) rupture and release their liquid metal payload, resulting in a rapid 108‐fold increase in the network's conductivity. These networks autonomously form hierarchical structures that mitigate the deleterious effects of strain on electronic performance and give rise to emergent properties. Notable characteristics include nearly constant resistances over large strains, electronic strain memory, and increasing volumetric conductivity with strain to over 20 000 S cm−1 at >700% elongation. Furthermore, these Poly‐LMNs exhibit exceptional performance as stretchable heaters, retaining 96% of their areal power across relevant physiological strains. Remarkable electromechanical properties, responsive behaviors, and facile processing make Poly‐LMNs ideal for stretchable power delivery, sensing, and circuitry.
Laser‐Induced Colloidal Writing of Organometallic Precursor–Based Repeatable and Fast Pd–Ni Hydrogen Sensor
Authors: Rahamim Guy , Greenberg Ehud , Rajouâ Khalil , Favier Frederic , Shpaisman Hagay , Zitoun David
Published: August 2019

The advent of hydrogen economy brings new challenges in terms of safety and sensing with a need for fast and low‐cost monitoring of hydrogen concentration. Herein, a repeatable process for the fabrication of Pd‐based hydrogen sensor is presented. First, a room‐temperature reaction of organometallic precursors yields colloidal Pd/Ni alloyed nanoparticles. This organic solvent‐based colloidal dispersion shows stability over months even with a relatively high metal content (≈1 wt%). Then, a laser induced microbubble deposits the nanoparticles in predetermined patterns from a microdroplet dispersion that is placed on a glass slide. An optical microscope monitors the writing process while a multimeter measures the sensor's conductance, assessing the success of the fabrication process. The fabricated sensors demonstrate excellent hydrogen detection performance in terms of response time, signal stability, and detection limit down to 100 ppm of H2 in air at room temperature.
An Optoelectronic Device for Rapid Monitoring of Creatine Kinase Using Cationic Conjugated Polyelectrolyte
Authors: Hussain Sameer , Zhao Hao , Zhou Lingyun , Zhou Xin , Iyer Parameswar Krishnan , Lv Fengting , Liu Libing , Wang Shu
Published: August 2019

Development of new methods and smart devices for precise monitoring and study of biological processes is a foremost area of organic bioelectronics. The use of such bioelectronic devices in early and point‐of‐care diagnosis of diseases, in particular cardiovascular disorders and cancer, is imperative, due to the increasing number of deaths globally. A new multimodal assay and portable device is introduced for direct monitoring of creatine kinase (CK), a well‐known cardiac and colorectal cancer biomarker, using conjugated polyelectrolyte (PMNT). Based on distinct conformational, optical, and electrical behavior, the cationic polythiophene PMNT can efficiently recognize CK under physiological conditions and demonstrate remarkable naked‐eye visualization and fluorescence turn‐on detection ability without employing any antibody‐ or enzyme‐coupled reactions typically used in traditional methods. Furthermore, the utilizing optical properties of PMNT at the interface of microelectronics and biology, a cost‐effective and portable device is constructed to monitor CK rapidly and accessibly. The metabolism of CK is also studied via intracellular imaging of PMNT in human colorectal cancer cells (LS‐174T) and by using the constructed prototype. This strategy displays the potential of conjugated‐polymer‐based devices in early stage diagnosis of disease and the study of biological activities, which ultimately advances their scope in the field of organic bioelectronics.
Defining “Swarming” as a New Model to Optimize Efficiency and Education in an Academic Emergency Department
Authors: Perniciaro Jessica L. , Schmidt Anita R. , Pham Phung K. , Liu Deborah R.
Published: August 2019

Background

Academic emergency medicine is a constant balance between efficiency and education. We developed a new model called swarming, where the bedside nurse, resident, and attending/fellow simultaneously evaluate the patient, including initial vital signs, bedside triage, focused history and physical examination, and discussion of the treatment plan, thus creating a shared mental model.

Objectives

To combine perceptions from trainee physicians, supervising physicians, nurses, and families with in vivo measurements of emergency department swarms to better conceptualize the swarming model.

Methods

This mixed methods study was conducted using a convergent design. Qualitative data from focus groups with nurses, residents, and attendings/fellows were analyzed using directed content analysis. Swarming encounters were observed in real time; durations of key aspects and family satisfaction scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The qualitative and quantitative findings were integrated a posteriori.

Results

From the focus group data, 54 unique codes were identified, which were grouped together into five larger themes. From 39 swarms, mean (±SD) time (minutes) spent in patient rooms: nurses = 6.8 (±3.0), residents = 10.4 (±4.1), and attendings/fellows = 9.4 (±4.3). Electronic documentation was included in 67% of swarms, and 39% included orders initiated at the bedside. Mean (±SD) family satisfaction was 4.8 (±0.7; Likert scale 1–5).

Conclusions

Swarming is currently implemented with significant variability but results in high provider and family satisfaction. There is also consensus among physicians that swarming improves trainee education in the emergency setting. The benefits and barriers to swarming are underscored by the unpredictable nature of the ED and the observed variability in implementation. Our findings provide a critical foundation for our efforts to refine, standardize, and appraise our swarming model.
Hermaphroditism promotes mate diversity in flowering plants
Authors: Christopher Dorothy A. , Mitchell Randall J. , Trapnell Dorset W. , Smallwood Patrick A. , Semski Wendy R. , Karron Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2019

Premise

Genetically diverse sibships are thought to increase parental fitness through a reduction in the intensity of sib competition, and through increased opportunities for seedling establishment in spatially or temporally heterogeneous environments. Nearly all research on mate diversity in flowering plants has focused on the number of fathers siring seeds within a fruit or on a maternal plant. Yet as hermaphrodites, plants can also accrue mate diversity by siring offspring on several pollen recipients in a population. Here we explore whether mate composition overlaps between the dual sex functions, and discuss the implications for plant reproductive success.

Methods

We established an experimental population of 49Mimulus ringens(monkeyflower) plants, each trimmed to a single flower. Following pollination by wild bees, we quantified mate composition for each flower through both paternal and maternal function. Parentage was successfully assigned to 240 progeny, 98% of the sampled seeds.

Results

Comparison of mate composition between male and female function revealed high mate diversity, with almost no outcross mates shared between the two sexual functions of the same flower.

Conclusions

Dual sex roles contribute to a near doubling of mate diversity in our experimental population ofMimulus ringens. This finding may help explain the maintenance of hermaphroditism under conditions that would otherwise favor the evolution of separate sexes.
The effect of neutrophil serine proteases on human nasal epithelial cell barrier function
Authors: Kao Stephen Shih‐Teng , Ramezanpour Mahnaz , Bassiouni Ahmed , Wormald Peter‐John , Psaltis Alkis James , Vreugde Sarah
Published: August 2019

Background

The neutrophil serine proteases neutrophil elastase (NE), cathepsin G (CG), and proteinase 3 (PR3) are implicated in the regulation of inflammatory conditions. Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase (PE), also a serine protease, has been found to behave similarly to NE and has been proposed to assist the pathogen in evading the host immune response. The effect of serine proteases on human nasal epithelial barrier function requires further investigation to better understand the pathophysiology of inflammatory conditions.

Methods

Purified human neutrophil serine proteases and PE were applied to primary human nasal epithelial cells grown at air‐liquid interface (HNEC‐ALI) cultures from 6 patients. Barrier integrity and function was assessed via transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), permeability assays, immunofluorescence of Zona occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), and ciliary beat frequency (CBF) measurements. Cytotoxicity assays were employed to assess cell viability. Interleukin 6 (IL‐6) and IL‐8 enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assessed cytokine release from HNEC‐ALI.

Results

The application of serine proteases showed detrimental effects on HNEC‐ALI barrier integrity. Reduction in TER occurred with NE, CG, and PE with increased paracellular permeability with NE, CG, PR3, and PE. Discontinuous tight junctions with reduction in ZO‐1 expression were identified using immunofluorescence. Neutrophil serine proteases were not toxic cells to the HNECs and had no detrimental effects on the CBF.

Conclusion

Serine proteases derived from neutrophils and from P. aeruginosa showed detrimental effects on the mucosal barrier integrity with increased permeability, allowing for potential bacterial invasion. This finding may further assist in understanding the pathophysiology present in chronic inflammatory airway diseases.
The simultaneous use of three ventilatory techniques to maintain oxygenation in a patient undergoing tracheal laser resection of tumour
Authors: Inglis D. , Gilhooly M. , Patel A.
Published: August 2019

Patients undergoing subglottic airway surgery present a challenge to both anaesthetist and surgeon, and often a balance between surgical access and method of ventilation has to be struck. We report a case in which a 38‐year‐old female with a large mediastinal mass causing distal tracheal obstruction underwent tracheal laser resection. In order to maintain oxygenation throughout she required simultaneous transnasal humidified rapid‐insufflation ventilatory exchange, supraglottic high‐frequency jet ventilation and suprastomal manual jet ventilation through her tracheostomy stoma. Where the use of one technique alone failed, the simultaneous use of all three maintained oxygenation and facilitated surgical access for the duration of the procedure.
Preparation and characterization of CO2‐selective Pebax/NaY mixed matrix membranes
Authors: Zheng Yingfei , Wu Yonghong , Zhang Bing , Wang Zhi
Published: August 2019

CO2‐selective Pebax/NaY mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were prepared by incorporating NaY zeolite into Pebax matrix. The morphology, chemical groups, thermal stability, and microstructure of the MMMs were investigated by scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. The effects of zeolite loading amount, permeation temperature and pressure on the CO2/N2 separation performance of the resultant membranes were studied. The as‐prepared MMMs are much superior to the pristine Pebax membranes in terms of permeability and selectivity. The CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity can respectively reach to 131.8 Barrer and 130.8 for MMMs made by the starting materials containing 40 wt % NaY. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48398.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Tissue and Periphery in Juvenile Dermatomyositis
Authors: Duvvuri Bhargavi , Pachman Lauren M. , Morgan Gabrielle , Khojah Amer M. , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa , Curran Megan L. , Doty Stephen , Lood Christian
Published: August 2019

Objective

Neutrophils are key immune cells participating in host defense through several mechanisms, including the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). This study was undertaken to investigate the role of neutrophils in juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM).

Methods

Electron microscopy was used to identify neutrophils in tissue. NETs were also imaged using fluorescence microscopy and quantified using a myeloperoxidase‐DNA enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in plasma obtained from healthy children (n = 20), disease controls (n = 29), JDM patients (n = 66), and JDM patients with history of calcifications (n = 20). Clinical data included disease activity scores and complement C4 levels. Levels of immune complexes (ICs) and calprotectin were analyzed using ELISA.

Results

Using electron microscopy, neutrophils were found to infiltrate affected muscle tissue, engulfing deposited calcium crystals. Uptake of the crystals led to neutrophil activation (P < 0.01) and subsequent phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase– and NADPH oxidase–dependent but peptidylarginine deiminase 4–independent formation of NETs, which contained mitochondrial DNA (P < 0.05), as confirmed in vivo (P < 0.001) and in vitro (P < 0.01). Peripheral NET levels were associated with calcinosis (P = 0.01), ICs (P = 0.008), and interleukin‐8 levels (P = 0.004). Children with JDM had impaired NET clearance (P = 0.01), associated with autoantibody profiles including melanoma differentiation–associated protein 5 (P = 0.005), and depressed complement C4 levels (r = −0.72, P = 0.002). Furthermore, children with JDM showed evidence of neutrophil activation, with elevated levels of peroxidase activity (P = 0.02) and calprotectin (P < 0.01), which were associated with disease activity (P = 0.007), and dyslipidemia (odds ratio 4.7, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

We found novel mechanisms of both calcium crystal–mediated neutrophil activation and cell death in JDM pathophysiology. Targeting this pathway may reduce the frequency and extent of calcinosis, as well as prevent long‐term development of comorbidities, including atherosclerosis.
Genomics course design and combined teaching strategy to enhance learning initiatives in classroom
Authors: Ouyang Liming , Zhang Huizhan , Zhang Xuexin , Wu Haizhen
Published: August 2019

Genomics is a core course for bioscience‐majored undergraduates in many universities. However, the teaching of genomics faces many challenges such as the need for rapid updating of related knowledge, content overlap between genomics and molecular biology, lack of motivation of students in the traditional passive classroom‐learning model, the difficulty of presenting omics data analysis processes through lectures, and the challenges of developing the research abilities of senior students. Here we report our updated genomics course design and the teaching practices we used to address these issues, including: use of the presentation‐assimilation‐discussion (PAD) pedagogy and opportunities for students to practice real data analysis and intensive reading of research papers. The resultant positive outcomes and problems are also discussed. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(6):632–637, 2019.
A head‐to‐head comparison of three coronary fractional flow reserve measurement technologies: The fractional flow reserve‐device study
Authors: Beygui Farzin , Lemaître Adrien , Bignon Mathieu , Wain‐Hobson Julien , Briet Clément , Ardouin Pierre , Sabatier Remi , Parienti Jean‐Jacques , Blanchart Katrien , Roule Vincent
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To compare three FFR technologies: the electric‐sensor Pressurewire® (P), the optic‐sensor Comet® (C) guidewire, and the optic‐sensor Navvus® (N) microcatheter.

Background

Different technologies are used to measure fractional flow reserve (FFR) for the functional assessment of coronary lesions with potential discrepancies.

Methods

Sixty‐six FFR measurements performed on 32 lesions using each technology were used for a paired comparison of FFR on simultaneous measurements and in clinically relevant conditions (guidewires alone, N on a guidewire).

Results

Simultaneous measurements of FFR were significantly (p < .0001) correlated between systems (ρ = 0.88, 0.81 and 0.86 for P and N, P and C and, C and N, respectively).

The presence of the N microcatheter, led to reduced values of FFR measured by P or C guidewires (p < .0001). The concomitant presence of P and C guidewires led to significantly lower FFR values (p < .0001) measured by P but not by C. In clinically relevant conditions, values of FFR measured by the optic‐sensor C guidewire and N catheter were similar and lower than those measured by the P guidewire (p < .0001). The agreement between the three technologies (FFR ≤ 0.80) was 94%.

Conclusions

FFR values simultaneously measured by three different technologies, are strongly correlated, and provide strongly concordant results. However, significant differences are found between values of FFR. The presence of N, but also C lead to a decrease of FFR measured by P. In clinically relevant conditions, the two optic‐sensor technologies provide similar FFR measurements, lower than those measured by the piezo‐electric technology suggesting a sensor‐technology‐related measurement variability.

Clinical trial registration: NCT#03052803.
Ketoisophorone Synthesis with an Immobilized Alcohol Dehydrogenase
Authors: Solé Jordi , Brummund Jan , Caminal Glòria , Schürman Martin , Álvaro Gregorio , Guillén Marina
Published: August 2019

The monoterpenoid α‐isophorone is sourced from the available and renewable plant dry matter, as well as a waste recovery operation from acetone. This compound, can be hydroxylated to 4‐hydroxy‐isophorone which is the main precursor for the synthesis of ketoisophorone. On its turn, ketoisophorone is a key intermediate for the production of carotenoids and Vitamin E. Here, the enzymatic oxidation of 4‐hydroxy‐isophorone to ketoisophorone is demonstrated employing an alcohol dehydrogenase (ADHaa) from Artemisia annua and a NADPH oxidase (NOX), as a cofactor regeneration enzyme. After 24 h of reaction and an initial substrate concentration of 50 mM, 95.7 % yield and a space time yield of 6.52 g L−1 day−1 could be obtained. Furthermore, the immobilization of the alcohol dehydrogenase was studied on 17 different supports. An epoxy‐functionalized agarose resulted in the highest metrics, 100±0% immobilization yield and 58.2±3.5 % retained activity. Finally, the immobilized ADHaa was successfully implemented in 4 reaction cycles (96 h operation) presenting a biocatalyst yield of 23.4 g product g−1 of enzyme. It represents a 2.5‐fold increase compared with the reaction with soluble enzymes.
Relationship between dynamic instability of individual microtubules and flux of subunits into and out of polymer
Authors: Mauro Ava J. , Jonasson Erin M. , Goodson Holly V.
Published: August 2019

Behaviors of dynamic polymers such as microtubules and actin are frequently assessed at one or both of the following scales: (a) net assembly or disassembly of bulk polymer, (b) growth and shortening of individual filaments. Previous work has derived various forms of an equation to relate the rate of change in bulk polymer mass (i.e., flux of subunits into and out of polymer, often abbreviated as “J”) to individual filament behaviors. However, these versions of the “J equation” differ in the variables used to quantify individual filament behavior, which correspond to different experimental approaches. For example, some variants of the J equation use dynamic instability parameters, obtained by following particular individual filaments for long periods of time. Another form of the equation uses measurements from many individuals followed over short time steps. We use a combination of derivations and computer simulations that mimic experiments to (a) relate the various forms of the J equation to each other, (b) determine conditions under which these J equation forms are and are not equivalent, and (c) identify aspects of the measurements that can affect the accuracy of each form of the J equation. Improved understanding of the J equation and its connections to experimentally measurable quantities will contribute to efforts to build a multiscale understanding of steady‐state polymer behavior.
Associative binding in early childhood: Evidence from a preferential looking paradigm
Authors: Johnson Elliott G. , Leckey Sarah , Davinson Kelsey , Ghetti Simona
Published: August 2019

Relational memory processes are responsible for forming representations that bind together the co‐occurring elements of an experience. These processes provide a foundation of episodic memory, the capacity to remember specific events about one's past. In the present research, we used a visual comparison paradigm to determine whether toddlers can form memories for the relation between co‐occurring items. In Experiment 1, 66 2‐year‐olds viewed pairs of cartoon faces (AB; CD) and did not show a significant novelty preference for the violated associations (i.e., did not look longer at AD rearranged pair than old AB pair when exposed to AD‐AB). However, toddlers looked longest at the individual face (i.e., D) violating a studied pair, which appeared to be supported by visual preference for centrally located stimuli. In Experiment 2, 46 2‐year‐olds participated in a similar procedure, but faces violating the pair during test were located to the periphery (e.g., AB‐AC). Under these conditions, toddlers looked longer at recombined pair AC. Overall, our results show that toddlers show some ability to make item‐item associations but may need to overcome preferential looking biases to demonstrate this capacity. Furthermore, looking behaviors beyond overall novelty preference may be informative even when overall novelty preference is not found.
Lower methionine/cystine ratio in low‐protein diet improves animal reproductive performance by modulating methionine cycle
Authors: Chen Xingping , Chen Ting , Sun Jiajie , Luo Junyi , Liu Jie , Zeng Bin , Zhang Yongliang , Xi Qianyun
Published: August 2019

Background

As the extend of low‐protein diets in many countries including China, more researches of amino acid nutrition (AA) have been carried out. But the ideal AA pattern, especially the reasonable proportion of amino acids such as the desired methionine (Met): cystine (Cys) ratios are not yet clear.

Objectives

In this article, the experiments of low‐protein diet with varying ratios of Met:Cys (low ratio of 1:3, medium ratio of 1:1, and high ratio of 3:1) were conducted to investigate the effect on mice growth and reproductive performance.

Results

The result indicated that the lower Met:Cys ratio improves reproductive performance in male mice, but the growth performance were no change in all groups. Meanwhile, the abnormality rate of sperm increased as the ratio of methionine and cystine increased. Quantitative analysis showed that the low Met:Cys ratio has obviously decreased the expression of Bax protein and the concentrations of testosterone in male serum, but Prm2, Pgk2, Bcl‐2, Bak1, and AR gene were made no difference. Furthermore, different Met:Cys ratios have significant effects on the modulated methionine cycle by increasing the expressions of MAT2B, GNMT, and BHMT in low Met:Cys ratio. On the other hand, it was also found that there were increases in GSH‐Px enzyme activities and decreases in MDA levels in male serum.

Conclusions

Overall, the present study showed that a dietary lower Met:Cys ratio in a low‐protein diet had a positive influence on the reproductive performance of male animal through obviously improving sperm quality and antioxidant capacity, and inhibiting apoptosis. And the study provided new pieces of evidence to re‐evaluate the role of precise sulfur amino acid nutrition in a low‐protein diet.
Recent developments in carbon capture utilisation and storage
Authors: Cozier Muriel
Published: August 2019

Despite political turmoil and intrigue, along with the inevitable financial uncertainty, the desire to overcome the obstacles that could hold back the innovation and implementation of technologies and projects to tackle climate change remains active. The recent climate change protests by school children are an indicator of not only the level of concern over climate issues, but what is also at stake if these obstacles allow progress to be derailed. The good news is that in the area of carbon capture utilisation and storage (CCUS), considered to be among the costliest, but necessary, weapons in the climate change mitigation arsenal, progress continues to be made. In this article, GHGS&T's Muriel Cozier rounds up some of the most recent developments. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) and free‐water imaging in Parkinsonism
Authors: Mitchell Trina , Archer Derek B. , Chu Winston T. , Coombes Stephen A. , Lai Song , Wilkes Bradley J. , McFarland Nikolaus R. , Okun Michael S. , Black Mieniecia L. , Herschel Ellen , Simuni Tanya , Comella Cynthia , Xie Tao , Li Hong , Parrish Todd B. , Kurani Ajay S. , Corcos Daniel M. , Vaillancourt David E.
Published: August 2019

Neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) uses a three‐compartment model to probe brain tissue microstructure, whereas free‐water (FW) imaging models two‐compartments. It is unknown if NODDI detects more disease‐specific effects related to neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD) and atypical Parkinsonism. We acquired multi‐ and single‐shell diffusion imaging at 3 Tesla across two sites. NODDI (using multi‐shell; isotropic volume [Viso]; intracellular volume [Vic]; orientation dispersion [ODI]) and FW imaging (using single‐shell; FW; free‐water corrected fractional anisotropy [FAt]) were compared with 44 PD, 21 multiple system atrophy Parkinsonian variant (MSAp), 26 progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and 24 healthy control subjects in the basal ganglia, midbrain/thalamus, cerebellum, and corpus callosum. There was elevated Viso in posterior substantia nigra across Parkinsonisms, and Viso, Vic, and ODI were altered in MSAp and PSP in the striatum, globus pallidus, midbrain, thalamus, cerebellum, and corpus callosum relative to controls. The mean effect size across regions for Viso was 0.163, ODI 0.131, Vic 0.122, FW 0.359, and FAt 0.125, with extracellular compartments having the greatest effect size. A key question addressed was if these techniques discriminate PD and atypical Parkinsonism. Both NODDI (AUC: 0.945) and FW imaging (AUC: 0.969) had high accuracy, with no significant difference between models. This study provides new evidence that NODDI and FW imaging offer similar discriminability between PD and atypical Parkinsonism, and FW had higher effect sizes for detecting Parkinsonism within regions across the basal ganglia and cerebellum.
Nuclear Sensor Interferon‐Inducible Protein 16 Inhibits the Function of Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA by Integrating Innate Immune Activation and Epigenetic Suppression
Authors: Yang Yuanyuan , Zhao Xinzhuan , Wang Ziyu , Shu Wangqin , Li Lijie , Li Yuqi , Guo Zhiwei , Gao Bo , Xiong Sidong
Published: August 2019

Background and Aims

Nuclear‐located covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a determining factor for HBV persistence and the key obstacle for a cure of chronic hepatitis B. However, it remains unclear whether and how the host immune system senses HBV cccDNA and its biological consequences.

Approach and Results

Here, we demonstrated that interferon‐inducible protein 16 (IFI16) could serve as a unique innate sensor to recognize and bind to HBV cccDNA in hepatic nuclei, leading to the inhibition of cccDNA transcription and HBV replication. Mechanistically, our data showed that IFI16 promoted the epigenetic suppression of HBV cccDNA by targeting an interferon‐stimulated response element (ISRE) present in cccDNA. It is of interest that this ISRE was also revealed to play an important role in IFI16–activated type I interferon responses. Furthermore, our data revealed that HBV could down‐regulate the expression level of IFI16 in hepatocytes, and there was a negative correlation between IFI16 and HBV transcripts in liver biopsies, suggesting the possible role of IFI16 in suppressing cccDNA function under physiological conditions.

Conclusions

The nuclear sensor IFI16 suppresses cccDNA function by integrating innate immune activation and epigenetic regulation by targeting the ISRE of cccDNA, and IFI16 may present as a therapeutic target against HBV infection.
Numerical investigation on the heat transfer characteristics in a circular pipe using multiple twisted tapes in laminar flow conditions
Authors: Kumar Shiva , Dinesha Pijakala , Narayanan Akshith , Nanda Rahul
Published: August 2019

Introducing passive devices in the form of inserts helps to increase the heat transfer characteristics in a circular pipe. In the present work, the feasibility of using two twisted tapes has been numerically studied under laminar flow conditions. Two twisted tapes with configurations of co‐swirl and counter‐swirl conditions were simulated for Re ranging from 1000 to 2500. Heat transfer characteristics like Nusselt number, friction factor, and thermohydraulic performance index (THPI) were investigated. Even the effect of spacing of the tubes inside the pipe was numerically studied. Results indicated that the insertion of two tapes will improve the performance of the circular tube compared with a single tape in terms of a higher Nu and higher THPI. It is observed that for the co‐swirl condition for a Reynolds number of 1000, Nu and THPI is 38% and 29% higher than using a single tape, whereas, for the counter‐swirl condition, they are 43% and 34% higher than that of the single tape condition. Also, it is revealed that counter swirl positioning of the tape with an L/D ratio 0.56 outperformed all other configurations with the highest THPI.
Progesterone receptor status modifies the association between body mass index and prognosis in women diagnosed with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer
Authors: Oudanonh Thiphavone , Nabi Hermann , Ennour‐Idrissi Kaoutar , Lemieux Julie , Diorio Caroline
Published: August 2019

The role of progesterone receptor (PR) status on the association between obesity and prognosis of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer (BC) remains poorly understood. We aim to examine whether this association varies according to the tumor PR status. Data for 3,747 women diagnosed with nonmetastatic ER+ invasive BC between 1995 and 2010 were analyzed. Women were classified according to their body mass index (BMI) (<18.5, 18.5–24.9, 25.0–29.9 or ≥30.0 kg/m2). Tumor PR status (PR−, PR+) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Hazard ratios (HR) for survival outcomes were estimated using multivariable Cox regression models. Effect modification was assessed on both additive and multiplicative scales using relative excess risk due to interaction and ratio of HRs, respectively. After a median follow‐up of 5.9 years (range: 3.4–9.2), women with PR− tumors and underweight (HR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.40–4.91), overweight (HR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.43–2.81) or obese (HR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.67–3.65) had increased risk of all‐cause mortality, when compared to normal weight women with PR+ tumors. A similar pattern of associations was observed for BC‐specific mortality. In contrast, women with PR+ tumors had similar risks for both mortality outcomes, regardless of BMI. On the additive scale, all‐cause mortality was modified by PR status for overweight and obese women, whereas for BC‐specific mortality, it was only modified for underweight women. The same observations were found on the multiplicative scale. These results suggest that poorer survival associated with low and high BMI among women diagnosed with ER+ BC may depend on the tumor PR status.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing 17‐alpha‐hydroxyprogesterone caproate versus placebo for the prevention of recurrent preterm birth
Authors: Fernandez‐Macias Rosa , Martinez‐Portilla Raigam J. , Cerrillos Lucas , Figueras Francesc , Palacio Montse
Published: August 2019

Background

Preterm birth causes an increased risk for perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Objective

To determine whether mid‐trimester 17‐alpha‐hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17‐OHPC) reduces the risk of recurrent preterm birth and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Search strategy

Systematic search to identify relevant studies published in different languages, registered after 2000, using appropriate MeSH terms.

Selection criteria

Inclusion criteria were women between 16 and 26+6 weeks of pregnancy with history of preterm delivery in any pregnancy randomized to either 17‐OHPC or placebo/no treatment.

Data collection and analysis

The number of preterm births and adverse outcomes in the 17‐OHPC and placebo arms over the total number of patients in each randomized group were used to calculate the risk ratio (RR) by random‐effects models using the Mantel‐Haenszel method. Between‐study heterogeneity was assessed using tau2, χ2 (Cochrane Q), and I2 statistics.

Main results

Four studies were included. There was a 29% (RR 0.71; 95% CI, 0.53–0.96; P=0.001), 26% (RR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.58–0.96; P=0.021), and 40% (RR 0.60; 95% CI, 0.42–0.85; P=0.004) reduction in recurrent preterm birth at <37, <35, and <32 weeks, respectively, in the 17‐OHPC group compared with placebo. The reduction in neonatal death was 68% (RR 0.32; 95% CI, 0.15–0.66; P=0.002).

Conclusions

17‐OHPC could reduce the risk of recurrent preterm birth at <37, <35, and <28 weeks and neonatal death.

PROSPERO: CDR42017082190
Attachment and coparenting representations in men during the transition to parenthood
Authors: Pinto Tiago Miguel , Figueiredo Bárbara
Published: August 2019

Coparenting is based on parents’ representations of themselves as coparents. Attachment theory can be a useful framework to understand the way that different coparenting representations are developed during the transition to parenthood. This study aimed to analyze the association between men's attachment and coparenting representations at the first trimester of pregnancy and from the first trimester of pregnancy to 6 months’ postpartum. A sample of 86 men was recruited and completed self‐report measures of attachment and coparenting representations at the first and third trimester of pregnancy and at 1 and 6 months’ postpartum. At the first trimester of pregnancy, higher attachment avoidance was associated with higher lack of coparenting support. From the first trimester of pregnancy to 6 months’ postpartum, higher attachment avoidance was associated with (a) a steeper increase on lack of coparenting support, (b) an increase on coparenting conflict (while low attachment avoidance was associated with a decrease), and (c) a lower decrease on coparenting disagreement. This study may contribute to coparenting research by showing new evidence on attachment theory as a useful framework to understand how different coparenting representations are developed in men during the transition to parenthood.
Flexible Na batteries
Authors: Zhao Chenglong , Lu Yaxiang , Chen Liquan , Hu Yong‐Sheng
Published: August 2019

Flexible energy storage devices have gained significant attention because of the increasing needs of bendable displays, wearable electronics, and flexible displays. Flexible Na‐based rechargeable batteries are the promising power sources in such products due to their low cost and wide availability. In this review, we firstly introduce the structural superiority of flexible Na‐based batteries and summarize their main components including cathodes, electrolytes, and anodes. Moreover, fabrication of their flexible components is discussed in detail, with specific emphasis on material selection, particularly for solid‐state electrolytes. This is followed by an overview highlighting recent progress in the development of prototypes of flexible Na‐ion batteries and beyond. Finally, perspectives on future challenges for the development of flexible Na batteries are proposed.

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Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio are associated with disease activity in polymyalgia rheumatica
Authors: Jung Ju‐Yang , Lee Eunyoung , Suh Chang‐Hee , Kim Hyoun‐Ah
Published: August 2019

Background

The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (MLR) are indicators of systemic inflammation and are useful as markers in systemic rheumatic diseases. In this study, we compared the NLR, PLR, and MLR among patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and explored possible associations with clinical features, disease activity, and prognosis in patients with PMR.

Methods

The study enrolled 94 patients with PMR and 242 patients with RA who were initially diagnosed at the rheumatology clinic of a university‐based tertiary hospital. Symptoms, physical examination, and medical histories were collected with the results of laboratory tests.

Results

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (4.5 ± 3.3 vs 2.8 ± 1.8), PLR (222.7 ± 115.5 vs 159.7 ± 78.1), and MLR (0.4 ± 0.3 vs 0.3 ± 0.2) were higher in patients with PMR compared with patients with RA (all P < .001). NLR, PLR, and MLR were correlated with specific laboratory values, including CRP and albumin, in patients with PMR. After disease activity resolved, NLR (2.95 ± 2.32, P < .001), PLR (137.5 ± 82.3, P < .001), and MLR (0.26 ± 0.16, P < .001) decreased significantly. By comparing patients according to the disease course, swollen joint counts were higher in the chronic course group compared with the remission group (P = .03), while the NLR, PLR, and MLR were similar.

Conclusions

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, and monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio levels were associated with disease activity and specific clinical features, although they could not predict prognosis in patients with PMR.
Mechanisms involved in follistatin‐induced hypertrophy and increased insulin action in skeletal muscle
Authors: Han Xiuqing , Møller Lisbeth Liliendal Valbjørn , De Groote Estelle , Bojsen‐Møller Kirstine Nyvold , Davey Jonathan , Henríquez‐Olguin Carlos , Li Zhencheng , Knudsen Jonas Roland , Jensen Thomas Elbenhardt , Madsbad Sten , Gregorevic Paul , Richter Erik Arne , Sylow Lykke
Published: August 2019

Background

Skeletal muscle wasting is often associated with insulin resistance. A major regulator of muscle mass is the transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) superfamily, including activin A, which causes atrophy. TGF‐β superfamily ligands also negatively regulate insulin‐sensitive proteins, but whether this pathway contributes to insulin action remains to be determined.

Methods

To elucidate if TGF‐β superfamily ligands regulate insulin action, we used an adeno‐associated virus gene editing approach to overexpress an activin A inhibitor, follistatin (Fst288), in mouse muscle of lean and diet‐induced obese mice. We determined basal and insulin‐stimulated 2‐deoxy‐glucose uptake using isotopic tracers in vivo. Furthermore, to evaluate whether circulating Fst and activin A concentrations are associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and weight loss in humans, we analysed serum from morbidly obese subjects before, 1 week, and 1 year after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

Results

Fst288 muscle overexpression markedly increased in vivo insulin‐stimulated (but not basal) glucose uptake (+75%, P < 0.05) and increased protein expression and intracellular insulin signalling of AKT, TBC1D4, PAK1, pyruvate dehydrogenase‐E1α, and p70S6K, while decreasing TBC1D1 signaling (P < 0.05). Fst288 increased both basal and insulin‐stimulated protein synthesis, but no correlation was observed between the Fst288‐driven hypertrophy and the increase in insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake. Importantly, Fst288 completely normalized muscle glucose uptake in insulin‐resistant diet‐induced obese mice. RYGB surgery doubled circulating Fst and reduced activin A (−24%, P < 0.05) concentration 1 week after surgery before any significant weight loss in morbidly obese normoglycemic patients, while major weight loss after 1 year did not further change the concentrations.

Conclusions

We here present evidence that Fst is a potent regulator of insulin action in muscle, and in addition to AKT and p70S6K, we identify TBC1D1, TBC1D4, pyruvate dehydrogenase‐E1α, and PAK1 as Fst targets. Circulating Fst more than doubled post‐RYGB surgery, a treatment that markedly improved insulin sensitivity, suggesting a role for Fst in regulating glycaemic control. These findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of inhibiting TGF‐β superfamily ligands to improve insulin action and Fst's relevance to muscle wasting‐associated insulin‐resistant conditions in mice and humans.
Life cycle assessment (LCA) of end‐of‐life dairy products (EoL‐DPs) valorization via anaerobic co‐digestion with agro‐industrial wastes for biogas production
Authors: Kopsahelis Alexandros , Kourmentza Constantina , Zafiri Constantina , Kornaros Michael
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to assess the environmental impacts of end‐of‐life dairy products (EoL‐DPs) management via their co‐treatment with agro‐industrial wastes (AgW) in a centralized biogas facility located in Cyprus using a gate‐to‐gate life cycle assessment (LCA) approach. Two different scenarios were examined under the framework of this project. In the first one, co‐treatment of EoL‐DPs with various AgW in a 20:80 (w/w) ratio was evaluated in a one‐stage mesophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) process. In the second scenario, the same amount of EoL‐DPs were acidified before methanogenesis with AgW in order to improve biogas production.

RESULTS

Prior acidification of EoL‐DPs showed a better environmental performance compared with the results obtained upon direct co‐digestion in a mesophilic digester, having a total impact of 52.44 Pt against 57.13 Pt respectively. Biogas production upon acidification, and therefore energy yield, was higher, reaching up to 22.88 m3 CH4 ton−1 feed (229.25 kWh ton−1 feed), compared with 17.45 m3 CH4 ton−1 feed (174.85 kWh ton−1 feed) for the case where no pretreatment was performed.

CONCLUSION

The acidification of EoL‐DPs enhanced the environmental performance of the process by reducing its impact by 8.2% (in Pt equivalents). The energy consumption of the biogas plant mixing equipment was identified as the process hotspot. However, further analysis of the environmental performance of the proposed process is required by extending the system's boundaries towards a cradle‐to‐grave approach. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Meniscal Replacement With a Silk Fibroin Scaffold Reduces Contact Stresses in the Human Knee
Authors: Stein Svenja , Höse Sabrina , Warnecke Daniela , Gentilini Cristina , Skaer Nick , Walker Robert , Kessler Oliver , Ignatius Anita , Dürselen Lutz
Published: August 2019

The aim of the current study was to verify if a previously developed silk fibroin scaffold for meniscal replacement is able to restore the physiological distribution of contact pressure (CP) over the articulating surfaces in the human knee joint, thereby reducing peak loads occurring after partial meniscectomy. The pressure distribution on the medial tibial articular surface of seven human cadaveric knee joints was analysed under continuous flexion–extension movements and under physiological loads up to 2,500 N at different flexion angles. Contact area (CA), maximum tibiofemoral CP, maximum pressure under the meniscus and the pressure distribution were analysed for the intact meniscus, after partial meniscectomy as well as after partial medial meniscal replacement using the silk fibroin scaffold. Implantation of the silk fibroin scaffold considerably improved tibiofemoral contact mechanics after partial medial meniscectomy. While the reduced CA after meniscectomy was not fully restored by the silk fibroin scaffold, clinically relevant peak pressures on the articular cartilage surface occurring after partial meniscectomy were significantly reduced. Nevertheless, at high flexion angles static testing demonstrated that normal pressure distribution comparable to the intact meniscus could not be fully achieved. The current study demonstrates that the silk fibroin implant possesses attributes that significantly improve tibiofemoral CPs within the knee joint following partial meniscectomy. However, the failure to fully recapitulate the CAs and pressures observed in the intact meniscus, particularly at high flexion angles, indicates that the implant's biomechanical properties may require further improvement to completely restore tibiofemoral contact mechanics. © 2019 The Authors.Journal of Orthopaedic Research®published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2583–2592, 2019