bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bigenic mouse model of FSGS reveals perturbed pathways in podocytes, mesangial cells and endothelial cells
Authors: Potter Andrew S. , Drake Keri , Brunskill Eric W. , Potter S. Steven
Published: April 2019

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is a major cause of end stage renal disease. Many patients prove unresponsive to available therapies. An improved understanding of the molecular basis of the disease process could provide insights leading to novel therapeutic approaches. In this study we carried out an RNA-seq analysis of the altered gene expression patterns of podocytes, mesangial cells and glomerular endothelial cells of the bigenicCd2ap+/-,Fyn-/- mutant mouse model of FSGS. In the podocytes we observed upregulation of many genes related to the Tgfβ family/pathway, includingGdnf, Tgfβ1, Tgfβ2, Snai2, Vegfb, Bmp4, andTnc. The mutant podocytes also showed upregulation ofActa2, a marker of smooth muscle and associated with myofibroblasts, which are implicated in driving fibrosis. GO analysis of the podocyte upregulated genes identified elevated protein kinase activity, increased expression of growth factors, and negative regulation of cell adhesion, perhaps related to the observed podocyte loss. Both podocytes and mesangial cells showed strong upregulation of aldehyde dehydrogenase genes involved in the synthesis of retinoic acid. Similarly, theCd2ap+/-,Fyn-/- mesangial cells, as well as podocytes in other genetic models, and the glomeruli of human FSGS patients, all show upregulation of the serine protease Prss23, with the common thread suggesting important functionality. Another gene with strong upregulation in theCd2ap+/-,Fyn-/- mutant mesangial cells as well as multiple other mutant mouse models of FSGS was thrombospondin, which activates the secreted inactive form of Tgfβ. TheCd2ap+/-,Fyn-/- mutant endothelial cells showed elevated expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, angioblast migration, angiogenesis, and neovasculature, all consistent with the formation of new blood vessels in the diseased glomerulus. The resulting global definition of the perturbed molecular pathways in the three major cell types of the mutant glomerulus provide deeper understanding of the molecular pathogenic pathways.
The use of strategy tools and frameworks by SMEs in the strategy formation process
Authors: Bellamy Lawrence Charles , Amoo Nii , Mervyn Kieran , Hiddlestone-Mumford Jacqueline
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the use of tools and techniques of strategy and strategic analysis within small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as a part of the strategy formation process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative, multiple-case-based investigation with semi-structured interviews and secondary data sources to create a context-rich insight to the area examined.

Findings

The findings indicate a strong orientation towards operational tools deployment aligned with financial management and resources and process planning, monitoring and control. Strategic perspectives of the respondents indicate an implicit, rather than explicit deployment of strategy tools and unstructured deployment, but general awareness of the resulting component issues. Clearer strategic approaches and strong implementation appear to positively influence success, when measured by growth.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to nine organisations within a UK geographic region, and therefore, larger-scale investigation would be beneficial to extend and confirm the findings in differing contexts.

Practical implications

With resource scarcity potentially stymying the opportunity for owner-managers to develop more structured approaches to strategic analysis and development, consideration should be given to how owner-managers can further develop their strategic thinking to support enhanced strategic outcomes for their organisations. Furthermore, strategy educationalists may wish to reflect upon the manner in which they prepare delegates for strategic roles, where the SME context may differ radically from corporate experience.

Originality/value

The methodology for this study differs substantially from previous investigations within the field, which has had relatively few contributions, as it uses in-depth, context-rich qualitative techniques to investigate the micro-processes at play. The conclusions capture new insights and indications and identify areas for further investigation, hence adding to the understanding of a complex and heterogeneous field.
Dryden v Johnson Matthey: The Boundaries of Actionable Damage
Authors: Huang Jarret J.
Published: April 2019

In Dryden v Johnson Matthey, the claimants sought to recover in tort for becoming sensitised to platinum salts by the defendant's negligence. The Supreme Court found, unanimously, that merely becoming sensitised, as opposed to developing an allergic reaction, sufficed as actionable damage. However, the court only provided two ‘indicative factors’ for when damage was ‘actionable’: whether there had been some impairment, and whether the effect of that impairment was ‘more than negligible’. This approach is unclear, in tension with other parts of the judgment, and produces undesirable broader consequences. It misses an opportunity for the Court to provide guidance on developments in tort like preventive damages, claimant‐specific loss, and the broader raison d'être of tort. A narrow and constrained adjustment to the law to permit recovery in negligence of pure economic loss for preventive damage could have achieved the same result without relying on somewhat convoluted mental gymnastics.
The contributions of nature to people within the Yawuru Indigenous Protected Area
Authors: Newman Benjamin , Wilson Kerrie A. , Melbourne Julie , Mathews Dean , Wysong Michael , Iacona Gwenllian D.
Published: April 2019

Managers of Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) may need to communicate the value provided by their protected area to indigenous and nonindigenous stakeholders, especially if a political focus on maximizing economic opportunities conflicts with traditional priorities. To facilitate this process, we used the latest Intergovernmental Science‐Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services conceptual framework and the IPA plan of management to identify the diverse ways that nature contributes to people in the Yawuru IPA (Western Australia). 68 out of 144 of the IPA management objectives related directly to ecosystem goods and services of which 65 are nonmaterial, 35 material, and 24 regulating (some services overlap). As a guide for management to assess relevant contributions, we identified valuation methods applicable to the IPA's wetlands and found that a wide range of options are available to assess ecosystem value. We also performed a detailed assessment of fresh water flow over the IPA.
Contraception Care for Transmasculine Individuals on Testosterone Therapy
Authors: Boudreau Danielle , Mukerjee Ronica
Published: April 2019

Contraception and fertility‐associated advisement is needed for any individual with a uterus who is engaging in sexual activity with reproductive potential. As greater awareness spreads regarding the health care needs of transgender, nonbinary, and gender‐nonconforming individuals, the research on evidence‐based care for these populations lags behind. Many clinicians may not be well versed in the best practices to support the sexual and reproductive well‐being of individuals who are taking gender‐affirming hormone therapy. This article reviews the use of contraception for individuals who are on testosterone gender‐affirming hormone therapy. Each contraceptive method is individually considered for the risks and benefits that are unique to this population.
Gender Transition: The Moral Meaning of Bodily and Social Presentation
Authors: Watt Helen
Published: April 2019

Medical and/or social gender transition need not involve denial of one's biological sex, but raises other taxing ethical issues. These range from sexual ethics issues narrowly understood to consideration of the claims of any spouse or children and indeed, of gender-discordant younger people who may follow one's example. As with intersex conditions, not all crossdressing or use of cross-sex hormones is excluded absolutely. Detransition, for example, could be rightly deferred for various reasons. However, as illustrated by the analogy of an infertile woman wanting to present as the pregnant mother of a child she plans to adopt, there is a significant social value in accurate bodily and other outward communication of one's actual/predominant sex (and occupancy of key allied roles).
New Oripodoidea (Acari, Oribatida) from Sri Lanka
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Khaustov Alexander A. , Joharchi Omid
Published: April 2019

Two new species of oripodoid mites (Oribatida, Oripodoidea) are described from litter in Sri Lanka. Oripoda parajosephineae sp. nov. (Oripodidae) differs from Oripoda josephineae Corpuz-Raros, 2010 by the presence of elongate phylliform interlamellar setae having setiform apex, and the absence of foveolate rostrum. Protoribates lankaensis sp. nov. differs from Protoribates tetrasetosus Ermilov, 2016 by smaller body size, and the presence of ciliate bothridial setae, short lamellar setae and having five pairs of genital setae.
Stone Skipping Physics
Authors: Babbs Charles F.
Published: April 2019

As a boy I spent many hours skipping stones across the surface of the water on the shore of Lake Michigan. The challenge was to get as many skips or as much distance as possible. Zero skips was a bust. One or two skips was disappointing, three or four skips was mediocre, and six or more skips was exhilarating. The angle of the stone with respect to the surface of the water seemed to be critical. A large angle approaching 45° produced one large jump and perhaps one or two more after that. A smaller angle produced more skips and a longer run. However, too small an angle would cause immediate sinking. Fine tuning the skill of stone skipping was a captivating pastime. Today stone skipping has become both a recreational and a competitive sport.
The Legacies of Apollo 11
Authors: DiLisi Gregory A. , Chaney Alison , Brown Greg
Published: April 2019

Fifty years ago this summer, three men aboard Apollo 11 traveled from our planet to the Moon. On July 20, 1969, at 10:56:15 p.m. EDT, 38-year-old commander Neil Armstrong moved his left foot from the landing pad of the lunar module (LM) Eagle onto the gray, powdery surface of the Sea of Tranquility and became the first person to step onto the lunar soil. Armstrong declared: “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind.” Nineteen minutes later, 39-year-old LM pilot Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin followed Armstrong onto the surface. Fifteen hours later, after spending two and a half hours outside of Eagle, the two men lifted off and returned to their command module (CM) Columbia, manned patiently by the third member of their crew, 38-year-old CM pilot Michael Collins. Four days later, the three men were back home. Although five additional lunar landings would occur, each more challenging and scientifically ambitious than its predecessor, Apollo 11 stands alone as the greatest technological accomplishment of the 20th century. The mission also signaled the beginning of the end of the “Golden Age” of America’s space program.
Introducing Scholarly Research to High School Physics Students
Authors: Leftwich Kendal M. , Ioup Juliette W. , Seab C. Gregory
Published: April 2019

We report here on an effort to involve high school physics students in research on impacts of oil spills on marine mammals at a local university. We believe that the effort described here might be useful to others who would like to involve physics students in research, especially work of an interdisciplinary nature. The students learn to work independently and to communicate and collaborate in a professional environment. The directing high school teacher for this project was also a university graduate student involved in the university research project. The high school students used a computer program provided by the university to determine the types of passive acoustic marine mammal signals recorded, primarily whales and dolphins. The students got a taste of scientific research and of being part of a research group, very desirable qualities for future college graduates. Student feedback indicated that they enjoyed learning to work with the data and that they think they are more likely to go to college and major in a STEM-related field.
Demonstration of the parallel axis theorem through a smartphone
Authors: Salinas I. , Gimenez M. H. , Monsoriu J. A. , Sans J. A.
Published: April 2019

New learning strategies try to extend the use of common devices among students in physics lab practices. In particular, there is a recent trend to explore the possibilities of using smartphone sensors to describe physics phenomena. On the other hand, the study of the moment of inertia by the use of the torsion pendulum is a typical example in the first courses of fundamentals of physics. This example allows the exploration of harmonic motion, Newton’s second law, the moment of inertia theory, and the parallel axis theorem all in one. Here, we report the use of the accelerometer sensor of a smartphone to visualize and demonstrate the parallel axis theorem in a torsion pendulum.
Inquiry-based electrostatics
Authors: Lenfestey Mark
Published: April 2019

Students often find the study of electrostatics to be abstract, heavily mathematical, and non-intuitive. This paper describes an inquiry-based approach to teaching electrostatics in an introductory calculus-based physics class that emphasizes the primacy of student conceptual understanding.
The Plant Host Induces Antibiotic Production To Select the Most-Beneficial Colonizers
Authors: Ogran Ariel , Yardeni Eliane Hadas , Keren-Paz Alona , Bucher Tabitha , Jain Rakeshkumar , Gilhar Omri , Kolodkin-Gal Ilana
Published: April 2019

Our study sheds mechanistic light on how multicellular biofilm units compete to successfully colonize a eukaryote host, using
B. subtilis
microbial communities as our lens. The microbiota and its interactions with its host play various roles in the development and prevention of diseases. Using competing beneficial biofilms that are essential microbiota members on the plant host, we found that
B. subtilis
biofilms activate collective migration to capture their prey, followed by nonribosomal antibiotic synthesis. Plant hosts increase the efficiency of antibiotic production by
B. subtilis
biofilms, as they activate the synthesis of polyketides; therefore, our study provides evidence of a mechanism by which the host can indirectly select for beneficial microbiota members.
Mode of Action of GH30-7 Reducing-End Xylose-Releasing Exoxylanase A (Xyn30A) from the Filamentous Fungus Talaromyces cellulolyticus
Authors: Nakamichi Yusuke , Fouquet Thierry , Ito Shotaro , Matsushika Akinori , Inoue Hiroyuki
Published: April 2019

Endo- and exo-type xylanases depolymerize xylan and play crucial roles in the assimilation of xylan in bacteria and fungi. Exoxylanases release xylose from the reducing or nonreducing ends of xylooligosaccharides; this is generated by the activity of endoxylanases. β-Xylosidase, which hydrolyzes xylose residues on the nonreducing end of a substrate, is well studied. However, the function of reducing-end xylose-releasing exoxylanases (Rex), especially in fungal cellulolytic systems, remains unclear. This study revealed the mode of xylan hydrolysis by Rex from the cellulolytic fungus
Talaromyces cellulolyticus
(Xyn30A), which belongs to the glycoside hydrolase family 30-7 (GH30-7). A conserved residue related to Rex activity is found in the substrate-binding site of Xyn30A. These findings will enhance our understanding of the function of GH30-7 Rex in the cooperative hydrolysis of xylan by fungal enzymes.
Women’s and healthcare professionals’ views on immediate postnatal contraception provision: a literature review
Authors: Thwaites Annette , Tran Anh B , Mann Sue
Published: April 2019

Objectives

Provision of immediate postnatal contraception, including long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods, is increasingly identified and endorsed as a key strategy for reducing unplanned and rapid repeat pregnancies. This literature review aims to evaluatethe views of women and healthcare professionals regarding the receipt, initiation or delivery of these services.

Methods

Databases (Embase, Medline, CINAHL, HMIC) were searched for relevant English language studies, from January2003 to December 2017. In addition, Evidence Search, Google Scholar and Scopus (citation search) were used to identify further literature. Other relevant websites were accessed for policies, guidance and supplementary grey literature.

Results

There is clear guidance on how to deliver good-quality postnatal contraception to women, but the reality of service delivery in the UK does not currently meet these aspirations, and guidance on implementation is lacking. The available evidence on the provision of immediate postnatal contraception focuses more on clinical rather than patient-centred outcomes. Research on postnatal women’s views is limited to receptivity to LARC and contraception counselling rather than what influences their decision-making process at this time. Research on views of healthcare professionals highlights a range of key systemic barriers to implementation.

Conclusions

While views of postnatal women and healthcare professionals are largely in support of immediate postnatal contraception provision, important challenges have been raised and present a need for national sharing of service commissioning and delivery models, resources and evaluation data. Provider attitudes and training needs across multidisciplinary groups also need to be assessed and addressed as collaborative working across a motivated, skilled and up-to-date network of healthcare professionals is viewed as key to successful service implementation.
Bioelectrical impedance analysis does not detect an increase in total body water following isotonic fluid consumption
Authors: Matthews Evan L. , Hosick Peter A.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To determine if single-frequency foot-to-foot bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) can detect acute changes in total body water (TBW) following consumption of isotonic saline. All participants ate a sodium-free meal at 4 h prior to the data collection visit and had euhydration confirmed using urine specific gravity at the beginning of the experimental visit. Subjects drank 466 mL of isotonic saline (Na+ 140 mmol·L−1) following baseline measures. Blood sampling and BIA were performed at baseline and every 30 min for 3 h after saline consumption. Ten healthy participants completed this study. Plasma volume (5%Δ, p < 0.001) and serum sodium concentration (1%Δ, p < 0.001) increased by 60 min and 90 min, respectively. Body mass (p < 0.001) displayed a biphasic response increasing to a peak at 30 min (+0.38Δkg) and then decreasing to its minimum at 180 min (–0.35Δkg). BIA impedance (p = 0.678) was unaffected by the saline administration. BIA-derived TBW (p = 0.039) decreased from baseline starting at 150 min (0.21Δkg).

Novelty Athletes and coaches wishing to achieve hyperhydration can do so through the consumption of isotonic fluid. 50 kHz foot-to-foot BIA-derived TBW is inadequate for measuring hyperhydration. Future studies should examine the physiological and performance effects of such a hyperhydration protocol.
Complete plastome sequences ofPicea asperataandP. crassifoliaand comparative analyses withP. abiesandP. morrisonicola
Authors: Ouyang Fangqun , Hu Jiwen , Wang Junchen , Ling Juanjuan , Wang Zhi , Wang Nan , Ma Jianwei , Zhang Hanguo , Mao Jian-Feng , Wang Junhui
Published: April 2019

Picea asperata and P. crassifolia have sympatric ranges and are closely related, but the differences between these species at the plastome level are unknown. To better understand the patterns of variation among Picea plastomes, the complete plastomes of P. asperata and P. crassifolia were sequenced. Then, the plastomes were compared with the complete plastomes of P. abies and P. morrisonicola, which are closely and distantly related to the focal species, respectively. We also used these sequences to construct phylogenetic trees to determine the relationships among and between the four species as well as additional taxa from Pinaceae and other gymnosperms. Analysis of our sequencing data allowed us to identify 438 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) point mutation events, 95 indel events, four inversion events, and seven highly variable regions, including six gene spacer regions (psbJ-petA, trnT-psaM, trnS-trnD, trnL-rps4, psaC-ccsA, and rps7-trnL) and one gene (ycf1). The highly variable regions are appropriate targets for future use in the phylogenetic reconstructions of closely related, sympatric species of Picea as well as Pinaceae in general.
Infinite mode quantum Gaussian states
Authors: Rajarama Bhat B. V. , John Tiju Cherian , Srinivasan R.
Published: April 2019

Quantum Gaussian states on Boson Fock spaces are quantum versions of Gaussian distributions. In this paper, we explore infinite mode quantum Gaussian states. We extend many of the results of Parthasarathy in [ 14 , 16 ] to the infinite mode case, which includes various characterizations, convexity and symmetry properties.
The fourth-order symmetry energy of nuclear matter and symmetry energy coefficients of finite nuclei using extended semi-empirical mass formula
Authors: Pal M. , Chakraborty S. , Sahoo B. , Sahoo S.
Published: April 2019

An extended nuclear mass formula has been used by considering the bulk, surface and coulomb contributions to the nuclear mass. In this mass formula, the fourth-order symmetry energy coefficient [Formula: see text] of finite nuclei and fourth-order symmetry energy [Formula: see text] of nuclear matter (NM) are related explicitly to the characteristic parameters of NM equation of state (EOS) using finite range effective interaction. The calculations are carried out with Yukawa form of exchange interaction having the same range but with different strengths for interaction between like and unlike nucleon. In this extended mass formula, by approximating [Formula: see text] to a constant [Formula: see text] an explicit relation between [Formula: see text] and fourth-order symmetry energy [Formula: see text] is obtained, which provides the possibility to extract information on [Formula: see text].
MULTI-ASSET WORST-CASE OPTIMAL PORTFOLIOS
Authors: KORN RALF , LEOFF ELISABETH
Published: April 2019

We generalize the worst-case portfolio approach of Korn & Wilmott (2002) to a multi-asset setting. The nonuniqueness of indifference strategies results in a much more complicated portfolio optimization problem as in the single risky asset framework. To determine the worst-case optimal portfolio processes we develop two new approaches, a Lagrangian multiplier approach in the log-utility case and a combined constrained HJB equation and indifference strategy approach for dealing with power-utility functions. Various examples illustrate remarkable effects and differences compared to the single risky asset setting, in particular the possibility for using some stocks for crash hedging and thereby allowing stock investment possibilities that are not present in the single-stock case.
THE ROLE OF INNOVATION METRICS IN INNOVATION SYSTEMS
Authors: ÖBERG CHRISTINA
Published: April 2019

In innovation systems, venture firms, incubators and science parks may interact with universities to achieve commercialisable output. These various parties are connected to different guiding performance metrics — measures on each party’s performance — that influence their behaviours. This paper illustrates and discusses the role of performance metrics among various parties in innovation systems connected with early research ideas from universities. The empirical part of the paper is based on interviews with 20 researchers and 10 representatives of various innovation system organisations in an EU-based research project. The paper points out how parties in the innovation process saw different reasons to participate which were strongly connected with how each party was evaluated and which caused sub-optimisation in behaviours. Previous research on innovation systems has not focused on the rationales and behaviours of parties. The focus on metrics targets an important point for understanding innovation processes involving several parties and specifically doing so for support organisations that cannot be measured on revenues or profits.
Effect of assuming constant tissue scattering on measured tissue oxygenation values during tissue ischemia and vascular reperfusion
Authors: Hammer Shane M. , Hueber Dennis M. , Townsend Dana K. , Huckaby Lillie M. , Alexander Andrew M. , Didier Kaylin D. , Barstow Thomas J.
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of assuming constant tissue scattering properties on tissue oxygenation measurements during a vascular occlusion test (VOT). Twenty-one subjects (21.8 ± 1.9 yr) completed a VOT [1 min baseline (BL), 5 min of tissue ischemia (TI), and 3 min of vascular reperfusion (VR)]. Absolute concentrations of oxygenated heme (oxy-[heme]), deoxygenated heme (deoxy-[heme]), total heme (total [heme), tissue oxygen saturation (StO2), and heme difference [heme]diff) were measured using frequency domain near-infrared spectroscopy (FD-NIRS) while 1) continuously measuring and incorporating tissue scattering ([Formula: see text]) and 2) assuming scattering remained constant. FD-NIRS measured [Formula: see text] increased during TI at 692 nm ( P < 0.001) and decreased at 834 nm ( P < 0.001). During VR, [Formula: see text] decreased at 692 nm ( P < 0.001) and increased at 834 nm ( P < 0.001). When assuming constant scattering, oxy-[heme] was significantly less at TIpeak ( P < 0.05) while deoxy-[heme] and StO2 were significantly altered at BL, TIpeak, and VRpeak (all P < 0.001). Total [heme] did not change during the VOT. Absolute changes in deoxy-[heme], oxy-[heme], and StO2 in response to TI and VR were significantly exaggerated (all P < 0.001) and the rates of change during TI ( slope 1) and VR ( slope 2) in deoxy-[heme], oxy-[heme], StO2, and [heme]diff were significantly increased (all P < 0.05) when constant tissue scattering was assumed. These findings demonstrate the need for caution when interpreting NIRS data without continuously measuring tissue optical properties. Further, assuming tissue optical properties remain constant may have important consequences to experimental data and clinical conclusions made using NIRS.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY NIRS measurements provide significant experimental and clinical insight. We demonstrate that absolute changes in tissue oxygenation measurements made with NIRS are overestimated and the kinetic responses of NIRS measurements are exaggerated by varying degrees among individuals if tissue scattering characteristics are assumed to remain constant during vascular occlusion tests.
Fresh Pomegranate Juice Decreases Fasting Serum Erythropoietin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Banihani Saleem A. , Shuaibu Shuaibu M. , Al-Husein Belal A. , Makahleh Seham S.
Published: April 2019

Pomegranate juice (PJ) has been recognized to have various biological benefits in several pathological conditions. One such benefit is the augmentation of hemoglobin level and the number of erythrocytes in the human body. Here, we assessed the short-term effect of fresh PJ on the level of Erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to healthy individuals. Blood samples from 59 participants with T2D and 30 healthy individuals were collected after a 12-hour fast and 3 hours after administration of fresh PJ at 1.5 mL per kg body weight. Serum glucose was measured by standard method and commercially available chemiluminescent immunoassay kits were used to determine serum EPO concentration. Mean changes in serum EPO levels 3 hours after ingesting PJ and before the juice ingestion (EPO response to PJ) for both diabetic and healthy participants were -2.002 ± 0.541 vs. - 0.041 ± 0.214, respectively (P = 0.0087). This EPO response to PJ was found not to be correlated with age (P = 0.6622) and gender (P = 0.5354) for patients with T2D, while a negative correlation (P = 0.0183) between EPO response to PJ and fasting serum glucose concentrations was observed in these patients. In conclusion, fresh PJ reduced serum EPO level in patients with T2D, but not in healthy individuals, 3 hours after ingesting the juice. The EPO response to PJ was found to be negatively correlated with fasting serum glucose, but not with age and gender, of patients with T2D. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier. NCT03902288.
Effect of Polypropylene Fiber on the Flexural Strength Properties of Lightweight Foam Mixed Soil
Authors: Sukkarak Raksiri , Jongpradist Pornkasem , Jamsawang Pitthaya , Sukontasukkul Piti , Chindaprasirt Prinya
Published: April 2019

This study examines the effect of polypropylene fiber on the flexural strength properties of lightweight foam mixed soil (LFS). The flexural properties of LFS comprising different proportions of polypropylene fiber (58 mm) at different volume fractions (0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%), three different cement contents of 100, 150, and 200 kg/m3, and densities of 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 g/cm3 were thoroughly investigated. The flexural performance of LFS according to ASTM C1609 was achieved after 28 days of aging. The results show that the flexural characteristics of LFS could be enhanced by fiber additives, as indicated by the increase in the flexural/residual strength and equivalent flexural strength ratio. The flexural performance is also related to the mixing components, including the density and cement content. For the toughness behavior, the equivalent flexural strength ratio reached up to 100%, which could be achieved with the strain-hardening specimens. The fiber inclusion is more efficient with an increase in the density and cement content of specimens as shown by the overall rating of the flexural performance.
The Nutritional Cytokine Leptin Promotes NSCLC by Activating the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK Pathways in NSCLC Cells in a Paracrine Manner
Authors: Li Fengzhou , Zhao Shilei , Guo Tao , Li Jinxiu , Gu Chundong
Published: April 2019

Purpose.Leptin is a nutritional cytokine encoded by the obesity gene whose concentration in the tumor microenvironment is closely related to the occurrence and progression of cancer. However, previous evidence has suggested that there is no clear relationship between serum leptin concentrations and lung cancer progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most abundant component of the tumor microenvironment in a variety of solid tumors, were recently reported to produce leptin. Therefore, it was inferred that leptin is most likely to affect non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) through an autocrine and paracrine mechanism. In the current study, we investigated the paracrine effect and mechanism of leptin produced by CAFs on NSCLC by establishing a novel in vitro cell coculture system.Methods.A noncontact coculture device was designed and made by 3D printing. CAFs and paired normal lung fibroblasts (NLFs) from 5 patients were successfully isolated and cocultured with two NSCLC cell lines in a coculture system. The background expression of leptin was detected by western blot. The in situ expression of leptin and its receptor (Ob-R) in NSCLC tissues and paired normal lung tissues was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, we downregulated the expression of leptin in CAFs and assessed changes in its promotion on NSCLC cells in the coculture system. Finally, changes in the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT were examined to investigate the molecular mechanisms responsible for the paracrine promotion of NSCLC cells by leptin.Results.Leptin was overexpressed in nearly all five primary CAF lines compared with its expression in paired NLFs. IHC staining showed that the expression of leptin was high in NSCLC cells, slightly lower in CAF, and negative in normal lung tissue. Ob-R was strongly expressed in NSCLC cells. The ability of A549 and H1299 cells to proliferate and migrate was enhanced by high leptin levels in both the cocultured fibroblasts and the culture medium. Furthermore, western blot assays suggested that the MAPK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways were activated by leptin produced by CAFs, which demonstrated that the functions of paracrine leptin in NSCLC are as those of the serum leptin to other cancers.Conclusion.Leptin produced by CAF promotes proliferation and migration of NSCLC cells probably via PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathways in a paracrine manner.
Expression and Concentration of Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 and Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinases 1 in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Matulka Marlena , Konopka Aneta , Mroczko Barbara , Pryczynicz Anna , Kemona Andrzej , Groblewska Magdalena , Sieskiewicz Andrzej , Olszewska Ewa
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the expression of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in cancerous tissue as well as in the serum and plasma concentrations of these proteins in patients with laryngeal cancer and compare the results to the inflammatory reaction in healthy subjects. Twenty-seven patients who were diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma and selected for total laryngectomy were included in the study group. MMP-9 and TIMP-1 expression in tissues was assessed using immunohistochemical assays. Immunoenzymatic ELISA methods were used to measure MMP-9 and TIMP-1 concentrations in serum and plasma. MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were identified in tumor cells and in the tumor stroma compartment, as well as in macroscopically healthy mucous membrane. MMP-9 expression was more significant in tumor stroma than in the perimatrix of the mucous membrane (p=0.047). TIMP-1 expression was significantly higher in the matrix and perimatrix of the mucous membrane than in cancer tissue (p=0.0093) and the tumor stroma compartment (p<0.0001). Expression of TIMP-1 was observed more frequently in tumors without infiltrated lymph nodes (p=0.009). Serum concentrations of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 as well as plasma TIMP-1 concentration were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (p=0.0004, p=0.002, and p=0.0001, respectively). A significantly higher TIMP-1 level in plasma was found in patients with poorly differentiated tumors compared to G1 and G2 (p=0.046). MMP-9/TIMP-1 rate in serum was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group. The balance between the level of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 is disrupted in laryngeal cancer. The significant correlation between TIMP-1 expression and the presence of lymph node metastases, as well as that between TIMP-1 plasma concentration and stage of cancer histological differentiation, might indicate the importance of this molecule as a prognostic factor during carcinogenesis.
Microwave Characterization of Metal-Decorated Carbon Nanopowders Using a Single Transmission Line
Authors: Mederos-Henry Francisco , Hermans Sophie , Huynen Isabelle
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a novel approach for the characterization of microwave properties of carbon-based nanopowders, decorated or not with magnetic nanoparticles. Their microwave parameters, dielectric constant, electrical conductivity, and complex magnetic permeability are extracted from measurements performed using a single transmission line acting as a test cell. Two geometries of transmission line were tested, and successful results were obtained with each one of them. The measurement results are assessed by a phenomenological model enabling to fit the measurement of the dielectric constant and conductivity, providing an insight on the compacity quality of the powder sample. Also, the extraction of the permeability is validated by the detection of a ferromagnetic resonance showing a linear dependence on external DC magnetic field.
Clinicopathologic and Prognostic Significance of Body Mass Index (BMI) among Breast Cancer Patients in Western China: A Retrospective Multicenter Cohort Based on Western China Clinical Cooperation Group (WCCCG)
Authors: Wang Kang , Wu Yu-Tuan , Zhang Xiang , Chen Li , Zhu Wen-Ming , Zhang Ai-Jie , Zheng Ke , Yin Xue-Dong , Li Fan , Kong Ling-Quan , Ma Bin-Lin , Li Hui , Liu Jin-Ping , Jiang Jun , Li Zhu-Yue , Shi Yang , Ren Guo-Sheng , Li Hong-Yuan
Published: April 2019

Introduction. Clinicopathologic and prognostic significance of body mass index (BMI) in breast cancer (BC) patients remained conflicting. We aimed to investigate and modify the impact of BMI on clinicopathological significance and survival in western Chinese BC patients.Materials and Methods. 8,394 female BC patients from Western China Clinical Cooperation Group (WCCCG) between 2005 and 2015 were identified. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportion hazard regressions were used to examine the difference of clinicopathologic and survival characteristics between BMI categories.Results. For the premenopausal, overweight and obese (OW) patients tended to have large tumor size (>5cm) (odds ratio [OR], 1.30, P<0.01) and triple-negative BC (OR, 1.31; P=0.01) compared with normal weight (NW) patients. Premenopausal underweight (UW) patients had a significantly higher risk of HER2 positive (OR, 1.71; P=0.02) and distant metastasis (OR, 2.59; P=0.01). For postmenopausal patients, OW patients showed higher risks of large tumor size (>5cm) (OR, 1.46; P=0.01), nuclear grade III (OR, 1.24; P=0.04), and lymphovascular invasion (OR, 1.46; P=0.01) compared with NW patients. An “U” shaped relationship between BMI and DFS was found (UW versus NW, adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 2.80, P<0.001; OW versus NW, adjusted HR, 1.40, P=0.02), whereas no significant difference of disease-free survival (DFS) between OW and NW premenopausal patients (adjusted HR=1.34, P=0.18) was revealed.Conclusion. We concluded that UW and OW were associated with aggressively clinicopathological characteristics, regardless of menopausal status. An “U” shaped association of BMI and DFS was revealed, and no significant difference of DFS between OW and NW in postmenopausal subgroup was revealed.
Design Principles for Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Organoid Engineering
Authors: Silva Teresa P. , Cotovio João P. , Bekman Evguenia , Carmo-Fonseca Maria , Cabral Joaquim M. S. , Fernandes Tiago G.
Published: April 2019

Human morphogenesis is a complex process involving distinct microenvironmental and physical signals that are manipulated in space and time to give rise to complex tissues and organs. Advances in pluripotent stem cell (PSC) technology have promoted the in vitro recreation of processes involved in human morphogenesis. The development of organoids from human PSCs represents one reliable source for modeling a large spectrum of human disorders, as well as a promising approach for drug screening and toxicological tests. Based on the “self-organization” capacity of stem cells, different PSC-derived organoids have been created; however, considerable differences between in vitro-generated PSC-derived organoids and their in vivo counterparts have been reported. Advances in the bioengineering field have allowed the manipulation of different components, including cellular and noncellular factors, to better mimic the in vivo microenvironment. In this review, we focus on different examples of bioengineering approaches used to promote the self-organization of stem cells, including assembly, patterning, and morphogenesis in vitro, contributing to tissue-like structure formation.
Graphene and MWCNT Printed Films: Preparation and RF Electrical Properties Study
Authors: Quaranta Simone , Giorcelli Mauro , Savi Patrizia
Published: April 2019

Carbon materials are well known for being a versatile class of materials able to transmit an electrical signal when used as fillers in composites. Among numerous carbon fillers, carbon nanotubes and graphene have been extensively investigated for the last thirty years. This paper compares graphene and carbon nanotube electrical (i.e., resistive and reactive) properties in the microwave range up to 3 GHz. The transmission and reflection parameters of both the microstrip transmission lines and patch antennas loaded with 33 wt.% of graphene and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were analyzed. Interestingly, for an identical composite matrix composition, different scattering parameters stemmed from the different morphology of the films, the diverse interactions between the graphene nanoplatelets, MWCNTs, and polymeric binders in conjunction with the intrinsic electrical characteristics of the two carbon materials.
Ambiguity Analysis and Resolution for Phase-Based 3D Source Localization under Given UCA
Authors: Liu Zhen , Chen Xin , Wei Zhenhua , Liu Tianpeng , Li Linlin , Peng Bo
Published: April 2019

Under uniform circular array, by employing some algebraic schemes to exploit the phase information of receiving data and further estimate the source’s three-dimensional (3D) parameters (azimuth angle, elevation angle, and range), a series of novel phase-based algorithms with low computational complexity have been proposed recently. However, when the array diameter is larger than source’s half-wavelength, these algorithms would suffer from phase ambiguity problem. Even so, there always exist certain positions, where the source’s parameters can still be determined with nonambiguity. Therefore, this paper first investigates the zone of ambiguity-free source 3D localization using phase-based algorithms. For the ambiguous zone, a novel ambiguity resolution algorithm named ambiguity traversing and cosine matching (ATCM) is presented. In ATCM, the phase differences of centrosymmetric sensors under different ambiguities are utilized to match a cosine function with sensor number-varying, and the source’s unambiguous rough angles can be derived from amplitude and initial phase of the cosine function. Then, the unambiguous angles are employed to resolve the phase ambiguity of the phase-based 3D parameter estimation algorithm, and the source’s range as well as more precise angles can be achieved. Theoretical analyses and numerical examples show that, apart from array diameter and source’s frequency, the sensor number and spacing of employed sensors are two key factors determining the unambiguous zone. Moreover, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness and satisfactory performance of our proposed ambiguity resolution algorithm.
Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer in the Setting of Unilateral Agenesis of the Left Pulmonary Artery: A Case Report and Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Agzarian John , Kadlec Jakub , Whitehead Lori , Shargall Yaron
Published: April 2019

Unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (UAPA) represents a rare condition that is often associated with cardiac congenital abnormalities but can also be relatively asymptomatic and indolent. There is a lack of consensus regarding the management of UAPA. However, in the setting of associated complications and ongoing infection, pulmonary resection is advocated. Although rare, the association between UAPA and bronchogenic carcinoma has been previously reported in seven published cases. In the majority of these, anatomic lung resection (most commonly with pneumonectomy) was curative. We present the first reported case of ipsilateral metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer- (NSCLC-) associated UAPA in a 47-year-old patient with ventilator-dependent hypoxic respiratory failure and bronchorrhea, who had been lost to follow-up for 8 years. Initial investigations did not yield evidence of malignancy, and confirmation of metastatic disease was made intraoperatively at the time of thoracotomy. The findings demonstrated evidence of diffuse metastatic pleural disease with lymphangitic carcinomatosis and superimposed infection. The patient was palliated and passed away shortly thereafter. In the setting of UAPA, clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for the possibility of malignancy, and if proven, they should consider early resection following appropriate staging.
The Clinical Effect of Oral Vitamin D2 Supplementation on Psoriasis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Disphanurat Wareeporn , Viarasilpa Wongsiya , Chakkavittumrong Panlop , Pongcharoen Padcha
Published: April 2019

Background. There are limited randomized controlled trials of oral vitamin D supplementation in psoriasis, especially in Asia, and the results are inconclusive. Objective. To investigate the clinical effect of oral vitamin D supplementation on psoriasis. Methods. Patients with psoriasis were randomized to receive vitamin D2 60,000 IU or similar-looking placebo pills once every 2 weeks for 6 months. The primary outcome was improvement of the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score at 3 and 6 months after treatment. Serum levels of 25(OH)D, calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, and C-reactive protein and adverse events were monitored. The chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, Student’s t-test, and Spearman’s correlation analysis were used in statistical analysis. Results. Of 50 subjects screened, 45 were eligible and randomized to the oral vitamin D2 group (n=23) or placebo group (n=22). At enrollment, the mean PASI score was 4.45, and 26.7% of patients had vitamin D deficiency. At 3 months, the oral vitamin D2 group had significantly higher PASI improvement than the placebo group (mean PASI improvement: 1.43 versus [vs.] -0.33, p-value=0.034; mean %PASI improvement: 34.21% vs. -1.85%, p-value=0.039). The mean serum 25(OH)D level was significantly higher in the oral vitamin D group than in the placebo group (27.4 vs. 22.4 ng/mL, p-value=0.029). Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly inversely correlated with PASI scores at the 6-month follow-up. No major adverse event was observed overall. Conclusion. Oral vitamin D2 supplementation in patients with psoriasis increased the serum vitamin D level and significantly improved the treatment outcome without increasing adverse events. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with Thai Clinical Trials Registry TCTR20180613001.
Analysis of the Effect of Severe Accident Scenario on Debris Properties in Lower Plenum of Nordic BWR Using Different Versions of MELCOR Code
Authors: Galushin Sergey , Kudinov Pavel
Published: April 2019

Nordic Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) employ ex-vessel debris coolability as a severe accident management strategy (SAM). Core melt is released into a deep pool of water where formation of noncoolable debris bed and ex-vessel steam explosion can pose credible threats to containment integrity. Success of the strategy depends on the scenario of melt release from the vessel that determines the melt-coolant interaction phenomena. The melt release conditions are determined by the in-vessel phase of severe accident progression. Specifically, properties of debris relocated into the lower plenum have influence on the vessel failure and melt release mode. In this work we use MELCOR code for prediction of the relocated debris. Over the years, many code modifications have been made to improve prediction of severe accident progression in light-water reactors. The main objective of this work is to evaluate the effect of models and best practices in different versions of MELCOR code on the in-vessel phase of different accident progression scenarios in Nordic BWR. The results of the analysis show that the MELCOR code versions 1.86 and 2.1 generate qualitatively similar results. Significant discrepancy in the timing of the core support failure and relocated debris mass in the MELCOR 2.2 compared to the MELCOR 1.86 and 2.1 has been found for a domain of scenarios with delayed time of depressurization. The discrepancies in the results can be explained by the changes in the modeling of degradation of the core components and changes in the Lipinski dryout model in MELCOR 2.2.