bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of triple‐negative breast cancer preclinical models provides functional evidence of metastatic progression
Authors: Arroyo‐Crespo Juan J. , Armiñán Ana , Charbonnier David , Deladriere Coralie , Palomino‐Schätzlein Martina , Lamas‐Domingo Rubén , Forteza Jerónimo , Pineda‐Lucena Antonio , Vicent María J.
Published: March 2019

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive, metastatic and recurrent breast cancer (BC) subtype, currently suffers from a lack of adequately described spontaneously metastatic preclinical models that faithfully reproduce the clinical scenario. We describe two preclinical spontaneously metastatic TNBC orthotopic murine models for the development of advanced therapeutics: an immunodeficient human MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model and an immunocompetent mouse 4T1 model. Furthermore, we provide a broad range of multifactorial analysis for both models that could provide relevant information for the development of new therapies and diagnostic tools. Our comparisons uncovered differential growth rates, stromal arrangements and metabolic profiles in primary tumors, and the presence of cancer‐associated adipocyte infiltration in the MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model. Histopathological studies highlighted the more rapid metastatic spread to the lungs in the 4T1 model following a lymphatic route, while we observed both homogeneous (MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc) and heterogeneous (4T1) metastatic spread to axillary lymph nodes. We encountered unique metabolomic signatures in each model, including crucial amino acids and cell membrane components. Hematological analysis demonstrated severe leukemoid and lymphoid reactions in the 4T1 model with the partial reestablishment of immune responses in the immunocompromised MDA‐MB‐231‐Luc model. Additionally, we discovered β‐immunoglobulinemia and increased basal levels of G‐CSF correlating with a metastatic switch, with G‐CSF also promoting extramedullary hematopoiesis (both models) and causing hepatosplenomegaly (4T1 model). Overall, we believe that the characterization of these preclinical models will foster the development of advanced therapeutic strategies for TNBC treatment, especially for the treatment of patients presenting both, primary tumors and metastatic spread.
Catalpol ameliorates advanced glycation end product‐induced dysfunction of glomerular endothelial cells via regulating nitric oxide synthesis by inducible nitric oxide synthase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Sun Weixiang , Gao Yuyan , Ding Yushi , Cao Ying , Chen Jing , Lv Gaohong , Lu Jinfu , Yu Bin , Peng Meilin , Xu Huiqin , Sun Yun
Published: March 2019

Catalpol (Cat.) is an iridoid glucoside extracted from the root of Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. In this study, we investigated whether Cat. could protect the mouse glomerular endothelial cells against the deleterious effect induced by advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and explored potential mechanisms. We found that 10 μM Cat. showed a protective effect on dead cells stimulated by AGEs. Cat. significantly decreased the expression of p‐NF‐κBp65 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and increased the expression of phosphorylated‐endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p‐eNOS; Ser1177), PI3K, p‐Akt (Thr308), and total‐Akt. Moreover, Cat. restored the integrity of glomerular endothelial barrier by increasing endothelial tight gap junction protein and ameliorated the endothelial hyperpermeability induced by AGEs via modulating the nitric oxide (NO) production. Additionally, Cat. attenuated the massive release of NO induced by AGEs, inhibiting the macrophage infiltration by modulating the NO production, accompanied by the decrease in the release of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 in vitro. Therefore, Cat. ameliorated AGEs‐induced endothelial dysfunction via inhibiting the NF‐κB/iNOS pathway and activating the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(9):1268–1283, 2019
Design and development of metallic biomaterials with biological and mechanical biocompatibility
Authors: Niinomi Mitsuo
Published: March 2019

In the present article, the recent trends in the research and development of metallic biomaterials are discussed with focus on the results obtained by the author's group. The design of biocompatible metallic biomaterials possessing excellent biological and mechanical properties, including titanium alloys with low Young's modulus, is reviewed with focus on Young's modulus, fatigue strength, and peculiar behavior. The evaluation of biological compatibility including cell viability and living tissue compatibility using animal models and surface modifications using bioactive ceramic and blood‐compatible polymers are summarized. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 944–954, 2019.
Effect of surface microstructure on the anti‐fibrosis/adhesion of hydroxyapatite ceramics in spinal repair of rabbits
Authors: Wu Yonghao , Liu Dan , Zhou Quan , Wang Linnan , Li Xiangfeng , Yang Xi , Zhu Xiangdong , Zhang Kai , Song Yueming , Zhang Xingdong
Published: March 2019

Epidural adhesion is a great clinical challenge after laminectomy. In the present study, two types of hydroxyapatite (HA) laminas with distinct surface microstructures were prepared by cold isostatic pressing (CIP) and slip casting (SC) techniques, and investigated to their anti‐fibrosis/adhesion effects by in vitro and in vivo evaluations. In contrast with the dense HA‐CIP, HA‐SC had a large number of micropores on the surface. After cultured on both HA ceramics, human skin fibroblasts presented the obvious senescent feature, and CCN1 gene expression was significantly up‐regulated. HA‐SC induced higher CCN1 gene expression than HA‐CIP. After used for closing the lost vertebral after laminectomy in rabbits, both HA laminas promoted the recovery of the bony structure as well as prevented the hyperplastic fibrous tissue from penetration into the spinal canal area and inhibited the formation of scar‐like tissue in laminectomy sites to some extent. Besides, thinner layer of fibrous tissue and smaller gap between the implant surface and paravertebral muscles were found in HA‐CIP than HA‐SC. Therefore, HA ceramics could have good anti‐fibrosis/adhesion effect when used in spinal repair, and the dense HA‐CIP could be an ideal choice. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B:2629–2637, 2019.
lncRNA GHET1 has effects in development of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Li Shuhong , Liu Jie , Kong Fanqiang , Wang Yuanli , Li Ning , Zou Yanfen
Published: March 2019

To explain long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) gastric carcinoma high expressed transcript 1 (GHET1) affects the mechanism in development of pre‐eclampsia. The pathological changes of normal, mild, and severe pre‐eclampsia were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining and measured the lncRNA GHET1 expression in different tissues by reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction. In the cell experiment, the BeWo cells were randomly divided into three groups: normal control (NC) group, model group, and lncRNA group. The JEG3 cells of the model and lncRNA groups were cultured in the hypoxia condition. The JEG3 cells invasion and migration abilities were measured by Tanswell and wound‐healing assays. The relative protein expressions of different groups were evaluated by Western blot (WB) assay. Compared with normal puerperal, the lncRNA GHET1 gene expression of pre‐eclampsia was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05, respectively). In the cell experiment, the invasion cell number and wound‐healing rate of the model group were significantly suppressed compared with the NC group (P < 0.05, respectively). However, the invasion cell number and wound‐healing rate of lncRNA group were enhanced by lncRNA GHET1 overexpression (P < 0.05, respectively). In WB assay, the E‐cadherin, fibronectin, and vimentin proteins expression showed significant differences between the model and lncRNA groups (P < 0.05, respectively). lncRNA GHET1 overexpression had restored cell invasion and migration abilities reduced by hypoxia in pre‐eclampsia.
CCEPR is a novel clinical biomarker for prognosis and regulates cell proliferation through PCNA in osteosarcoma
Authors: Teng Jiawen , Guo Xingfeng , Wang He
Published: March 2019

CCEPR (cervical carcinoma expressed PCNA regulatory lncRNA) has been found to be upregulated and enhance cell proliferation in human cancers. However, the role of CCEPR in osteosarcoma remains to be discovered. In this study, we found CCEPR expression was elevated in osteosarcoma tissue specimens and cell lines compared with adjacent normal tissue specimens and osteoblast cell line, respectively. Meanwhile, osteosarcoma patients with advanced stage or tumor size greater than 8 cm had higher expression of CCEPR than patients with early stage or tumor size less than or equal to 8 cm, respectively. Survival analysis suggested that osteosarcoma patients with high CCEPR expression had a worse overall survival rate than those with low CCEPR expression. The in vitro study indicated that CCEPR positively regulated proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression in osteosarcoma cells and silencing of CCEPR inhibited osteosarcoma cell proliferation through decreasing PCNA expression. In conclusion, CCEPR is a potential prognostic predictor and functions as oncogenic long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) to regulate cell proliferation via PCNA in osteosarcoma.
Propofol inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by downregulating Twist
Authors: Zheng Haibo , Fu Yantao , Yang Tongwei
Published: March 2019

Propofol is a commonly used anesthetic drug with potential antitumor activity. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferation and antimetastatic mechanisms of propofol in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). SMMC‐7721 was treated with different concentrations of propofol. Cell proliferation was evaluated by the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and cell motility was assessed by the wound healing assay. Cell migration and invasion ability were analyzed by the transwell assay. Protein levels of E‐cadherin, Vimentin, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2), and MMP‐9 were measured by Western blotting. Twist1 gene expression was assessed by Western blotting and quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The proliferation, motility, migration, and invasion of SMMC‐7721 cells were inhibited by propofol treatment in a dose‐dependent manner. Propofol treatment downregulated the protein levels of Vimentin, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9 while increasing that of E‐cadherin. Propofol treatment inhibited the expression of the Twist1 gene in SMMC‐7721 cells. The overexpression of Twist1 could partially reverse the inhibitory effects of propofol on SMMC‐7721 cells. Propofol inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells by downregulating the expression of Twist1, making it a potential drug for HCC treatment.
Late Pleistocene glaciation in the Mosquito Range, Colorado, USA: chronology and climate
Authors: Brugger Keith A. , Laabs Benjamin , Reimers Alexander , Bensen Noah
Published: March 2019

New cosmogenic 10Be surface exposure ages from 17 moraine boulders in the Mosquito Range of Colorado suggest that glaciers were at their late Pleistocene (Pinedale) maximum extent at ∼21–20 ka, and that ice recession commenced before ∼17 ka. These age limits suggest that the Pinedale Glaciation was synchronous within the Colorado Rocky Mountain region. Locally, the previous (Bull Lake) glaciation appears to have occurred no later than 117 ka, possibly ∼130 ka allowing for reasonable rock weathering rates. Temperature‐index modeling is used to determine the magnitude of temperature depression required to maintain steady‐state mass balances of seven reconstructed glaciers at their maximum extent. Assuming no significant differences in precipitation compared to modern values, mean annual temperatures were ∼8.1 and 7.5 °C lower, respectively, on the eastern and western slopes of the range with quantifiable uncertainties of + 0.8/−0.9 °C. If an average temperature depression of 7.8 °C is assumed for the entire range, precipitation differences − that today are 15–30% greater on the eastern slope due to the influence of winter/early spring snowfall − might have been enhanced. The temperature depressions inferred here are consistent with similarly derived values elsewhere in the Colorado Rockies and those inferred from regional‐scale climate modeling.
A nutritional and rumen ecological evaluation of the biorefinery by‐product alfalfa silage cake supplemented with Scrophularia striata extract using the rumen simulation technique
Authors: Sarnataro Chiara , Petri Renee M , Spanghero Mauro , Zebeli Qendrim , Klevenhusen Fenja
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

By‐products of the food production chain are gaining importance as feedstuffs for ruminants. Alfalfa silage cake (AC) is an unexploited biorefinery by‐product rich in fiber. The aim of this study was to test AC, using an in vitro rumen simulation technique (Rusitec), for its suitability as a fiber source for cattle. Three diets with similar crude protein (CP) content were formulated; they contained the biorefinery by‐product AC, the original alfalfa silage (OA), or a fiber‐rich hay. As fibrous feedstuffs are known to promote ruminal methanogenesis, we additionally tested a plant extract of Scrophularia striata (60 mg g−1 dry matter) for its methane mitigation and antimicrobial properties.

RESULTS

Diets containing AC displayed lower nutrient degradability, with the largest difference in CP degradation (P < 0.001). Sequencing of microbial DNA revealed several effects of the diet and of the addition of S. striata extract, but no inhibitory effect on methanogens. Likewise, methane production, which, in general, is lower with AC and OA diets, was not inhibited by S. striata extract, while the short chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles were unaffected.

CONCLUSION

Although CP degradation of the AC diet was lower, degradation of the fiber fractions was similar among diets. According to the present results, AC can be used as fibrous feedstuff for ruminants. Supplementation with S. striata extract did not inhibit methane formation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Soil microbial diversity during 30 years of grassland restoration on the Loess Plateau, China: Tight linkages with plant diversity
Authors: Guo Yanqing , Hou Lijun , Zhang Zhiying , Zhang Jianli , Cheng Jimin , Wei Gehong , Lin Yanbing
Published: March 2019

Restoring ecosystems has been a key strategy to combat land degradation and reverse losses in biodiversity. Because interactions between communities above and below the ground drive key ecosystem processes, they can profoundly influence ecological succession trajectories. However, relatively little empirical information is available for plant–microbial diversity linkages during ecological restoration. Here, using the Illumina platform for bacterial and fungal sequencing, we investigated linkages between soil microbial and plant diversity across a 30‐year chronosequence of restored grasslands on the Loess Plateau in Northwestern China. The results showed that plant, bacterial, and fungal species richness all increased with increased years of grassland restoration, during which their community compositions shifted among six different habitats. The microbial community assembly data were integrated into a co‐occurrence network analysis, revealing greater network complexity in the late restoration stage (25 and 30 years). The alpha and beta diversities of both the bacterial and fungal communities were significantly and positively correlated with plant communities. Bacterial community composition was governed primarily by soil edaphic factors and deterministic processes, whereas fungal community composition was structured mainly by plant community composition and both deterministic and stochastic processes. This evidence strongly suggests that different ecological processes shaped bacterial and fungal communities during ecological restoration of the grasslands. Our results provide insight into the aboveground–belowground associations of restored habitats, which may have implications for ecological restoration practices and biodiversity maintenance in arid and semiarid grassland ecosystems.
Rapid Two‐Photon Polymerization of an Arbitrary 3D Microstructure with 3D Focal Field Engineering
Authors: Yang Dong , Liu Lipu , Gong Qihuang , Li Yan
Published: March 2019

Two‐photon polymerization is a powerful method for three‐dimensional (3D) precision nanofabrication. To facilitate the fabrication speed, for the first time, single‐exposure or single‐scan two‐photon polymerization of an arbitrary 3D microstructure with smaller or larger volume is demonstrated through focal field engineering. The constraints and the initial conditions of the Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm for the retrieval of the incident wavefront are adapted for the shape fidelity and the smoothness of the 3D focal field intensity distribution. As a result, a small 3D microstructure can be polymerized by a single exposure within 0.1 s, while a larger one can be formed by continuous polymerization of slices of the structure with one‐dimensional single scan with a speed of 6 µm s−1. The microlenses that generate vortex beams with different orbital angular momentums are polymerized to demonstrate the high fabrication precision. These pave the way for the rapid two‐photon polymerization of arbitrary 3D structures.
Slow dynamics for the hyperbolic Cahn‐Hilliard equation in one‐space dimension
Authors: Folino Raffaele , Lattanzio Corrado , Mascia Corrado
Published: March 2019

The aim of this paper is to study the metastable properties of the solutions to a hyperbolic relaxation of the classic Cahn‐Hilliard equation in one‐space dimension, subject to either Neumann or Dirichlet boundary conditions. To perform this goal, we make use of an “energy approach," already proposed for various evolution PDEs, including the Allen‐Cahn and the Cahn‐Hilliard equations. In particular, we shall prove that certain solutions maintain a N‐transition layer structure for a very long time, thus proving their metastable dynamics. More precisely, we will show that, for an exponentially long time, such solutions are very close to piecewise constant functions assuming only the minimal points of the potential, with a finitely number of transition layers, which move with an exponentially small velocity.
Well‐posedness and iterative formula for fractional oscillator equations with delays
Authors: Pang Denghao , Jiang Wei , Liu Song , Niazi Azmat Ullah Khan
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the well‐posedness and iterative formula for fractional oscillator equations with two different fractional orders and time delays. By the mathematical induction, a new generalized Grönwall's inequality in terms of a multivariate Mittag‐Leffler function is derived with an iteration argument. Subsequently, using the inequality, a generalized Mittag‐Leffler estimation of the solution is proposed. Furthermore, the explicit solution and iterative formula, as well as the unique existence, are presented on the basis of the method of steps. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the validity of our main results.
Corrections of myocardial tissue sodium concentration measurements in human cardiac 23Na MRI at 7 Tesla
Authors: Lott Johanna , Platt Tanja , Niesporek Sebastian C. , Paech Daniel , G. R. Behl Nicolas , Niendorf Thoralf , Bachert Peter , Ladd Mark E. , Nagel Armin M.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To quantify the tissue sodium concentration (TSC) in cardiac 23Na MRI. To evaluate the influence of different correction methods on the measured myocardial TSC.

Methods

23Na MRI of four healthy subjects was conducted at a whole‐body 7T MRI system using an oval‐shaped 23Na birdcage coil. Data acquisition was performed with a density‐adapted 3D radial pulse sequence using a golden angle projection scheme. 1H MRI data were acquired at a 3T MRI system to generate a myocardial mask. Retrospective cardiac and respiratory gating were used to reconstruct 23Na MRI data in the diastolic phase and exhaled state. B0 and B1 inhomogeneity and partial volume (PV) effects were corrected. Relaxation times and TSC of ex vivo blood samples and calf muscle were determined. These values were used in the PV correction to estimate myocardial TSC, which was compared with the measured TSC of calf muscle.

Results

Without any correction the measured myocardial TSC was (54 ± 5) mM. The applied correction methods reduced these values by (48 ± 5)% to (29 ± 3) mM, where PV correction had the largest effect (reduction of (34 ± 1)%). Respiratory and cardiac motion gating decreased the concentrations by (11 ± 1)%. With the applied setup, the corrections of B0 and B1 inhomogeneity (reduction of (3 ± 2)%) had negligible influences on TSC values. The resulting myocardial TSC was approximately 1.4‐fold higher than the measured TSC of calf muscle tissue of the same healthy subjects ((20 ± 3) mM).

Conclusion

For quantitative human cardiac 23Na MRI several corrections are needed and ranked for our setup: PV correction, respiratory and cardiac gating, correction for B1 inhomogeneity effects.
Time‐optimized 4D phase contrast MRI with real‐time convex optimization of gradient waveforms and fast excitation methods
Authors: Loecher Michael , Magrath Patrick , Aliotta Eric , Ennis Daniel B.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To shorten 4D flow acquisitions by shortening TRs with fast RF pulses and gradient waveforms. Real‐time convex optimization is used to generate these gradients waveforms on the scanner.

Theory and Methods

RF and slab‐select waveforms were shortened with a minimum phase SLR excitation and the time‐optimal variable‐rate selective excitation method. Real‐time convex optimization was used to shorten bipolar and spoiler gradients by finding the shortest gradient waveforms that satisfied constraints on scan parameters, gradient hardware, M0, M1, and peripheral nerve stimulation. Waveforms were calculated and TE and/or TR values were compared for a range of scan parameters and compared to a conventional 4D flow sequence. The method was tested in flow phantoms, and in the aorta and neurovasculature of volunteers (N = 10). Additionally, eddy current error was measured in a large phantom.

Results

TEs and TRs were shortened by 21–32% and 20–34%, respectively, compared to the conventional sequence over a range of scan parameters. Bland‐Altman analysis of 2 flow phantom configurations showed flow rate bias of 0.3 mL/s and limits of agreement (LOA) of [−6.9, 7.5] mL/s for a cardiac phantom and a bias of −0.1 mL/s with LOA = [−0.4, 0.2] mL/s for a neuro phantom. Similar agreement was also seen for flow measurements in volunteers (bias = −1.0 and −0.1 mL/s, LOA = [−34.9, 33.0] and [−0.7, 0.6] mL/s). Measured eddy currents were 39% larger with the CVX + mpVERSE method.

Conclusion

The real‐time optimized 4D flow gradients and fast slab‐selection excitation methods produced up to 34% faster TRs with excellent flow measurement agreement compared to a conventional 4D flow sequence.
Intact metabolite spectrum mining by deep learning in proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the brain
Authors: Lee Hyeong Hun , Kim Hyeonjin
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To develop a robust method for brain metabolite quantification in proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) using a convolutional neural network (CNN) that maps in vivo brain spectra that are typically degraded by low SNR, line broadening, and spectral baseline into noise‐free, line‐narrowed, baseline‐removed intact metabolite spectra.

Methods

A CNN was trained (n = 40 000) and tested (n = 5000) on simulated brain spectra with wide ranges of SNR (6.90–20.74) and linewidth (10–20 Hz). The CNN was further tested on in vivo spectra (n = 40) from five healthy volunteers with substantially different SNR, and the results were compared with those from the LCModel analysis. A Student t test was performed for the comparison.

Results

Using the proposed method the mean‐absolute‐percent‐errors (MAPEs) in the estimated metabolite concentrations were 12.49% ± 4.35% for aspartate, creatine (Cr), γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), glucose, glutamine, glutamate, glutathione (GSH), myo‐Inositol (mI), N‐acetylaspartate, phosphocreatine (PCr), phosphorylethanolamine, and taurine over the whole simulated spectra in the test set. The metabolite concentrations estimated from in vivo spectra were close to the reported ranges for the proposed method and the LCModel analysis except mI, GSH, and especially Cr/PCr for the LCModel analysis, and phosphorylcholine to glycerophosphorylcholine ratio (PC/GPC) for both methods. The metabolite concentrations estimated across the in vivo spectra with different SNR were less variable with the proposed method (~10% or less) than with the LCModel analysis.

Conclusion

The robust performance of the proposed method against low SNR may allow a subminute 1H‐MRS of human brain, which is an important technical development for clinical studies.
Health‐related quality of life in children with early‐stage juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Charuvanij Sirirat , Chaiyadech Chollada
Published: March 2019

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic inflammatory disease resulting in physical and psychological disability. This study aimed to measure the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) and identify factors influencing the HRQOL.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study in Thai children with JIA and their parents between January and December 2015, using the Thai version of the Pediatrics Quality of Life (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scale.

Results

Sixty‐five children (33 girls and 32 boys) were included. The median age of the children was 9.6 (interquartile range [IQR] 6.4–12.3) years and the median disease duration was 1.1 (IQR 0.2–2.2) years. The physical health subscale had the lowest score, with a median (range) of 78.1 (34.4–100). Twenty‐five (45.4%) children were classified as having suboptimal HRQOL. The school functioning subscale had the lowest score, at 60 (25–100) reported by parents. High disease activity and a disease duration <1 year were significantly associated with suboptimal HRQOL reported by parents, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 20.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4, 291.7) and 5.9 (95% CI 1.2, 33.3), respectively.

Conclusions

Almost half of Thai children with JIA had suboptimal HRQOL. The physical health score was the lowest subscale reported by the children. Early, effective management of disease activity could improve the HRQOL in children with JIA.
Three‐dimensional discrete element method parallel computation of Cauchy stress distribution over granular materials
Authors: Yan Beichuan , Regueiro Richard A.
Published: March 2019

The paper presents Cauchy stress tensor computation over parallel grids of message passing interface (MPI) parallel three‐dimensional (3D) discrete element method (DEM) simulations of granular materials, considering spherical and nonspherical particles. The stress tensor computation is studied for quasi‐static and dynamic conditions, and its resulting symmetry or asymmetry is discussed within the context of classical continuum mechanics (CCM), granular materials mechanics (GMM), and micropolar continuum mechanics (MCM). The average Cauchy stress tensor computation follows Bagi's and Nicot's formulations and is verified within MPI parallel 3D DEM simulations involving dynamically adaptive compute grids. These grids allow calculation of temporal and spatial distributions of stress across granular materials under static and dynamic conditions. The vertical stress component in gravitationally deposited particle assemblies exhibits nonuniform spatial distributions under static equilibrium, and its zone of maximum value changes during the process of gravitational pluviation and collapse. These phenomena reveal a microstructural effect on stress distribution within granular materials that is attributed to their discrete particulate nature (particle size, shape, gradation, boundary conditions, etc).
Working with freelance content writers: Overflow, part 1
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: March 2019

Many marketing and communications offices aren't always in the position to create a new position or fill a vacated spot on the team. Despite a smaller staff, work does not decrease. Sometimes this means projects are put on hold or take longer than anticipated. When it comes to content‐related efforts, a freelance writer could make a great, temporary addition to your team.
Give students ownership of credentials with blockchain technology
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2019

When the enrollment services division at Central New Mexico Community College started looking at digital services for diplomas, transcripts, and other credentials, they were guided by the institution's strategic plan. One of the plan's priorities was to shift from college‐owned technology to student‐owned technology, said Feng Hou, chief information officer and chief digital learning officer.
Gas/Liquid‐Phase Micro‐Flow Trifluoromethylation using Fluoroform: Trifluoromethylation of Aldehydes, Ketones, Chalcones, and N‐Sulfinylimines
Authors: Hirano Kazuki , Gondo Satoshi , Punna Nagender , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: March 2019

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Norio Shibata at the Nagoya Institute of Technology (Japan). The cover picture shows an image related to the perpetual motion machine of the second kind in the eighteenth century, and “alchemy”. Our biggest challenge on the path to the results presented in this paper was the creation of alchemy using fluorine chemistry. Read the full text of their Communication at 10.1002/open.201800286.
The Association Between Central Nervous System‐Active Medication Use and Fall‐Related Injury in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults with Dementia
Authors: Hart Laura A. , Marcum Zachary A. , Gray Shelly L. , Walker Rod L. , Crane Paul K. , Larson Eric B.
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To examine the association between central nervous system (CNS)‐active medication use and the risk of fall‐related injury in community‐dwelling older adults following dementia onset. Further, to evaluate increased risk at higher doses or with a greater number of CNS‐active medication classes.

Methods

Participants included community‐dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older with a dementia diagnosis participating in the Adult Changes in Thought Study. From automated pharmacy data, a time‐varying composite measure of CNS‐active medication use was created. Central nervous system‐active medication use was classified as current (use within prior 30 days), recent (prior 31–90 days), past (prior 91–365 days), and nonuse (no exposure in prior year). For current users, standardized daily doses (SDDs) were calculated for each CNS‐active medication and summed across medications, and the number of CNS‐active medication classes used was also measured. The outcome was fall‐related injury based on emergency department, inpatient, and outpatient International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) and external cause of injury (E) codes.

Results

Among 793 subjects, 303 fall‐related injuries occurred over a mean follow‐up of 3.7 years (2907 total person‐years). Relative to nonuse, fall risk was significantly higher for current use (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.59, 95% confidence internal [CI] 1.19–2.12) but not for past or recent use. Among current users, increased risk was seen across SDD levels: HRs (95% CI): 1.77 (1.19–2.62), 1.79 (1.25–2.56), and 1.35 (0.96–1.92) for less than 1 SDD, 1 to less than 2 SDDs, and 2 or more SDDs, respectively (trend test, p=0.14). A trend was seen for increasing risk with a greater number of CNS‐active medication classes; however, this was not statistically significant (trend test, p=0.084).

Conclusions

Current use of CNS‐active medications was associated with fall‐related injury in community‐dwelling older adults followed from time of dementia onset, with increased risk even with use of low doses.
Gone viral: Content characteristics and relative quality of highly shared school psychology‐related content on Pinterest
Authors: Hall Cristin M. , Breeden Nicole C. , Giacobe Nicklaus
Published: March 2019

Educational professionals, including school psychologists, are utilizing extant social media platforms to gather ideas, strategies, and resources to serve students with a variety of needs. The concern about the quality of resources remains a consistent reservation by proponents of adherence to best practices and evidence‐based programs. The present study examined a sample (n = 444) of the most highly shared pins in a random sample of content from followers of the National Association of School Psychologists Pinterest account. The research team conducted content‐coding for tool type, content type, the original source of the materials, and functionality and user‐friendliness. Results indicated that there was a high representation of social‐emotional, autism‐related, and intervention‐related material. Allied professionals (such as teachers) disseminated much of the content that was highly shared. Inferential analysis revealed that there were differential patterns of utility, functionality and content types across various original sources from the internet.
Improving abamectin bioavailability via nanosuspension constructed by wet milling technique
Authors: Cui Bo , Lv Yan , Gao Fei , Wang Chunxin , Zeng Zhanghua , Wang Yan , Sun Changjiao , Zhao Xiang , Shen Yue , Liu Guoqiang , Cui Haixin
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Poorly water‐soluble and photosensitive pesticide compounds are difficult to be formulated as environmentally friendly formulations with high efficacy. Conventional wettable powder, emulsifiable concentrate and emulsion in water have disadvantages of dust drift, overuse of organic solvent and low efficacy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to construct a novel formulation to improve the bioavailability of pesticides.

RESULTS

An abamectin nanosuspension was developed using a wet‐milling method combined with orthogonal experimental design. The average particle sizes of the abamectin nanosuspension measured by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope were 233, 90 and 140 nm, respectively. The zeta potential and sliding angle on cabbage leaves were −36.9 mV and 62°. Retention and anti‐photolysis were around 1.5 and 1.6 times those of emulsions in water. Furthermore, the biological activity of the nanosuspension towards diamondback moths was approximately twice that of conventional formulations.

CONCLUSION

This study provides an easy and scalable technique for constructing pesticide nanosuspensions. The preparation and composition of the nanosuspension avoid the use of organic solvents. Application of the highly effective nanoformulation will significantly enhance pesticide efficacy, and reduce the dosage and environmental pollution of the pesticide. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Convection‐permitting ensembles: Challenges related to their design and use
Authors: Frogner Inger‐Lise , Singleton Andrew T. , Køltzow Morten Ø. , Andrae Ulf
Published: March 2019

Challenges related to the design and use of a convection‐permitting ensemble (CPEPS) are discussed. In particular the scale‐dependent predictability of precipitation and the use of a CPEPS as well as its potential added value over global ensemble prediction systems (EPS) are investigated. Forecasts of precipitation from the operational CPEPS in Finland, Norway and Sweden (MEPS) are used for the investigations. It is found that predictability for scales smaller than ∼60 km is lost rapidly within the first 6 h of the forecast with the smallest predictable scale growing more slowly to ∼100 km over the following 18–24 h. However, there is large case‐to‐case variability and the ensemble perturbations fail to become fully saturated, especially in winter, suggesting a weakness in the design of the ensemble. The added value of CPEPS over deterministic forecasts and coarser resolution EPSs is discussed with summary statistics and case‐studies. It is shown that the added value varies between seasons and lead times. For precipitation there is an added value for both severe precipitation events and for precipitation/no precipitation decisions. The added value is higher in summer compared to winter and for shorter lead times compared to longer lead times.
Video‐augmented fluoroscopy for distal interlocking of intramedullary nails decreased radiation exposure and surgical time in a bovine cadaveric setting
Authors: Weidert Simon , Wang Lejing , Landes Juergen , Sandner Philipp , Suero Eduardo M. , Navab Nassir , Kammerlander Christian , Euler Ekkehard , von Der Heide Anna
Published: March 2019

Background

We aimed to assess the feasibility of a video‐augmented fluoroscopy (VAF) technique using a camera‐augmented mobile C‐arm (CamC) for distal interlocking of intramedullary nails.

Methods

Three surgeons performed distal interlocking on seven pairs of cadaveric bovine carpal bones using the VAF system and conventional fluoroscopy. We compared radiation exposure, procedure time, and drilling quality between the VAF system and conventional fluoroscopic guidance.

Results

Distal interlocking using VAF significantly reduced the number of fluoroscopic images compared with conventional fluoroscopy (P < 0.05). No significant difference in overall procedure time (P = 0.96) or drilling quality (P = 0.12) was detected. VAF demonstrated improvement in radiation exposure when used by a less experienced surgeon (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

VAF is a feasible technique for distal interlocking. Overlaid visualization of the osseous anatomy in relation to the surgical field of view appears to improve surgeons' perception of relevant structures and their spatial orientation for the use of surgical instruments.
Experiments in unmanned aerial vehicle/unmanned ground vehicle radiation search
Authors: Peterson John , Li Weilin , Cesar‐Tondreau Brian , Bird John , Kochersberger Kevin , Czaja Wojciech , McLean Morgan
Published: March 2019

This paper discusses the results of a field experiment conducted at Savannah River National Laboratory to test the performance of several algorithms for the localization of radioactive materials. In this multirobot system, both an unmanned aerial vehicle, a custom hexacopter, and an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), the ClearPath Jackal, equipped withγ‐ray spectrometers, were used to collect data from two radioactive source configurations. Both the Fourier scattering transform and the Laplacian eigenmap algorithms for source detection were tested on the collected data sets. These algorithms transform raw spectral measurements into alternate spaces to allow clustering to detect trends within the data which indicate the presence of radioactive sources. This study also presents a point source model and accompanying information‐theoretic active exploration algorithm. Field testing validated the ability of this model to fuse aerial and ground collected radiation measurements, and the exploration algorithm’s ability to select informative actions to reduce model uncertainty, allowing the UGV to locate radioactive material online.
Magnesium Incorporated White Sandstone as a Green and Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for One‐Pot Synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐Tetrasubstituted Pyrroles
Authors: Fakhree Ameneh Abolghassemi , Ghasemi Zarrin , Shahrisa Aziz , Mostafavi Hossein
Published: March 2019

A simple, convenient and four‐component method for synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐tetrasubstituted pyrroles has been developed by using of magnesium containing nano silica catalyst. This strategy demonstrates the coupling reactions of aromatic aldehydes, 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds, aniline derivatives and nitromethane, over the one pot procedure. The polysubstituted 4‐(imidazole‐1‐yl) aniline derivatives were also used as amine precursor at above reaction and the obtained products were evaluated on their emission properties. The modified natural source white sandstone which was appeared as an efficient, recyclable and green catalyst at the desired reaction, was fully characterized by different methods.
Synthesis and Characterization of Low‐Functional Nitrated and Aminated Octa(Phenyl) Silsesquioxane
Authors: Wu Yi‐wei , Liu Lei‐chun , Yang Rong‐jie , Zhang Wen‐chao
Published: March 2019

Nitrated octa(phenyl)silsesquioxane (NO2‐OPS) with different functional groups was prepared from octa(phenyl)silsesquioxane. The number of nitro functional groups was controlled by adjusting the nitration‐reaction conditions. The chemical structure of the NO2‐OPS was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, elemental analysis and gel‐permeation chromatography. The functionalities of the NO2‐OPS can be controlled between two and eight. The laws of the reaction conditions that affect the functionality were determined by studying the nitration mechanism. Low‐functional aminated octa(phenyl)silsesquioxane (NH2‐OPS) was synthesized by an active hydrogen‐transfer reduction reaction and the chemical structure of the functionalities was maintained. The chemical structure of the NH2‐OPS was characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography, and the thermal stability of the products with different functionalities was examined. The low‐functionality NH2‐OPS has a concentrated molecular‐weight distribution and an excellent thermal stability, which provide good potential for its application in polymers.
NixMnyCozO Nanowire/CNT Composite Microspheres with 3D Interconnected Conductive Network Structure via Spray‐Drying Method: A High‐Capacity and Long‐Cycle‐Life Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Qing , Zhu Guozhen , Zhao Yunhao , Pei Ke , Che Renchao
Published: March 2019

The combination of high‐capacity and long‐term cycling stability is an important factor for practical application of anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries. Herein, NixMnyCozO nanowire (x + y + z = 1)/carbon nanotube (CNT) composite microspheres with a 3D interconnected conductive network structure (3DICN‐NCS) are prepared via a spray‐drying method. The 3D interconnected conductive network structure can facilitate the penetration of electrolyte into the microspheres and provide excellent connectivity for rapid Li+ ion/electron transfer in the microspheres, thus greatly reducing the concentration polarization in the electrode. Additionally, the empty spaces among the nanowires in the network accommodate microsphere volume expansion associated with Li+ intercalation during the cycling process, which improves the cycling stability of the electrode. The CNTs distribute uniformly in the microspheres, which act as conductive frameworks to greatly improve the electrical conductivity of the microspheres. As expected, the prepared 3DICN‐NCS demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance, showing a high capacity of 1277 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 2000 cycles and 790 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 1000 cycles. This work demonstrates a universal method to construct a 3D interconnected conductive network structure for anode materials
A look at European buckling curves for aluminium members
Authors: Misiek Thomas , Norlin Bert , Höglund Torsten
Published: March 2019

Numerical investigations of compression members made of aluminium are presented and recommendations for reorganizing the buckling classes and curves are derived from these. Finally, the curves are compared with test results.
Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Therapy Ameliorates Ionizing Irradiation Fibrosis via Hepatocyte Growth Factor-Mediated Transforming Growth Factor-β Downregulation and Recruitment of Bone Marrow Cells
Authors: Ejaz Asim , Epperly Michael W. , Hou Wen , Greenberger Joel S. , Rubin J. Peter
Published: March 2019

Radiation therapy to anatomic regions, including the head and neck, chest wall, and extremities, can produce radiation-induced fibrosis (RIF). To elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanism(s) involved in RIF, female C57BL/6J mice were irradiated to the right flank to 35 Gy in single fraction using 6 Mv electrons. Radiation fibrosis was detected by day 14, was increased by day 28, and confirmed by Masson's trichrome histological staining for collagen. Biopsied tissue at day 14 showed an increase in expression of fibrosis-related genes including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and collagens 1–6. A single adipose-derived stem cell (ASC) injection on day 28 at the irradiated site decreased by day 40: epithelial thickness, collagen deposition, and significantly improved limb excursion compared with irradiated controls. Noncontact transwell coculture of ASCs above a monolayer of irradiated human foreskin fibroblasts downregulated fibrosis-related genes TGF-β, connective tissue growth factor, interleukin-1, NF-kB, tumor necrosis factor, and collagens 1–6. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) secreted by ASCs was identified as a novel mechanism by which ASCs exert antifibrotic effects by downregulating fibrotic gene expression in irradiated cells and recruiting bone marrow cells to the irradiated site. In conclusion, these data indicate a mechanistic role of HGF secreted by ASCs in reducing RIF. Stem Cells  2019;37:791–802
A hybrid time and frequency domain digital implementation of flickermeter based on mirror image extension
Authors: Wu Xiaodong , Tian Muqin , Zhu Yanfang , Zhao Qiaoe , Liu Fang
Published: March 2019

The flickers caused by wind farm should be assessed accurately because they become a limiting factor for integrating wind turbines into a grid. The traditional flickermeter uses the fast Fourier transform (FFT), weighting in the frequency domain, and the inverse FFT process to weight the flickers to simulate the eye‐brain sensitivity to the lamp illumination behavior. However, because of the lower frequency resolution, spectral leakage will occur when the flickers transform into the frequency domain via FFT, then it may cause runaways in both ends of the weighted flickers and the runaways are more serious in the low‐frequency band, finally the assessment accuracy cannot meet the design criteria required by IEC Standard 61000‐4‐15 because the flicker frequencies of wind farm are in the low‐frequency band. An improved digital flickermeter implementation in the hybrid time and frequency domain is proposed in this article. Simulations and actual measurements show that the mirror image extension can improve the runaway through changing the phase angle of the flicker equivalently to make the results more accurate in the low‐frequency band when the frequency resolution decreases. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.